Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Guided-missile destroyer Tangshan in maritime training China Military Online) 09:21, August 14, 2025 The guided-missile destroyer Tangshan (Hull 122) attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Northern Theater Command sails on the sea during a maritime training exercise held recently. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Ma Yubin) The guided-missile destroyer Tangshan (Hull 122) attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Northern Theater Command sails on the sea during a maritime training exercise held recently. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Ma Yubin) The guided-missile destroyer Tangshan (Hull 122) attached to a flotilla with the navy under the Chinese PLA Northern Theater Command sails on the sea during a maritime training exercise held recently. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Ma Yubin) (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) A new mayor will guide the City of Decatur through a divisive time for the city. Mayor Tab Bowling announced that he would not seek re-election in 2023. Many community members supporting justice for Steve Perkins demanded that he step down from the position when Perkins was killed. He was named in a lawsuit in support of Jaiden DeJarnett, a 16-year-old who was killed after a police chase with Decatur Police officers. He was first elected in 2016. Billy Jackson, Kent Lawrence, William Butch Matthews and Suzie Wiley are in the race to be the next mayor. Wiley did not respond to the questionnaire because she is grieving her late husband. She replied in a statement: Please let people know I am sorry to not participate. I am for higher-paying jobs, more playgrounds for stepchildren, and fixing roads. I will be a friend of the council and not walk out of meetings. I will work for the citizens of Decatur, and I have no connections to any special interests. City elections will be held Aug. 26. Each candidate was asked the same 10 questions. Answers are below with some grammatical editing: How did your previous roles and background prepare you to lead Decatur? Billy Jackson (Decatur City Councilman): With nearly 30 years on the Decatur City Council, including serving as Council President and carrying out the Mayors duties during his absences, Ive had a front-row seat to every major challenge our city has faced. That experience has given me a deep understanding of how city government works, from daily operations to long-term planning. I have overseen budgets, guided infrastructure projects, and made decisions on zoning, bond financing, and economic development that directly impact our quality of life. My educational background in business and law equips me to analyze policy, manage city resources responsibly, and navigate complex challenges with confidence and integrity. I dont need on-the-job training; I have already done the work. And as mayor, Ill continue to lead with transparency, accountability, and a steady hand to move Decatur forward. Kent Lawrence: My leadership and management background in running large operations has prepared me for this new challenge. I have been managing businesses and people most of my life. When I was 10, I had a paper route for the Decatur Daily. As a paperboy, I was an independent contractor. First off, you work seven days a week delivering the paper, but I also had to collect monthly payments. I learned that if you dont get paid, it comes out of your pocket. I was also responsible for building sales on my route. I had to learn how to deal with customer complaints. So, I learned the basics of running a business at an early age. I got my first bank loan at the age of 12. I wanted to buy a minibike. My mother took me to see Pat Thornton, and he gave me a loan. Of course, he really made the loan to my mother, but he made me think it was to me. He made me sign a note and talked to me about the importance of making my payment on time. I paid it off and every payment was on time. I bought my first brand new car at the age of sixteen, it was a blue Malibu Classic with a white leather interior. I saved the money for a down payment and made the payments myself. When I was 13 & 14, I mowed several yards in the neighborhood and then I went to work at McDonalds at 15. I was an assistant manager at the age of 16 and promoted to store manager when I was 18, just two weeks before graduating high school. I was an area supervisor at 19, and for the last 10 years there, I was the director of operations. When I left, I was overseeing 10 restaurants with over 500 employees. I left McDonalds in 1996, and we bought TVW Electrical supplies, which I sold to Inline Electric this past October, where I was the branch manager until June, and I am now officially retired. Running my own business for 27 years was a great experience for me. I loved every minute of it, and I have a great group of people to work with, and Im going to brag about them a bit. They are all outstanding in their job and know what it takes to provide excellent customer service. I have been so proud of them during the transition to Inline. I know what it means to be responsible for someones paycheck and to be the person who must make the hard decisions. I will bring my leadership to City Hall and be the CEO of our city. Our citizens deserve experienced, real-life leadership they can count on. I am the only candidate in the race that brings this expertise to the Mayors office, and I am ready to get to work on day one. I will keep our economy moving forward and support pro-business policies. Conducting business with the city and operating a business in our city should be made as streamlined as possible. William Butch Matthews: I had the privilege to serve on the City of Decatur Council two consecutive years under two different Mayors. The late Mayor Bill J. Dukes and Mayor Julian Price. I learned the importance of Building Relationships and having respect for one another, including each Council Member. We call each other by our names. What do you consider your most significant accomplishment to date, and how will it guide your city leadership? Jackson: One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is developing the Turner-Surles Community Resource Center, transforming it into a vibrant hub for senior programs, community events, and neighborhood connection. I also led the charge to improve railroad crossing safety in my district. When I took office, we had zero crossing bars. Today, we have three, a critical step toward protecting both drivers and pedestrians. Over the years, I have worked to bring five new parks to our neighborhoods, along with major upgrades to roads, sewage systems, and other essential infrastructure, especially in areas that had long been overlooked. These arent just projects. They reflect my commitment to equity, safety, and quality of life for every Decatur resident. And as mayor, I will keep fighting to ensure that every part of our city gets the resources and respect it deserves. Lawrence: I purchased a business in an industry I knew nothing about, quickly learned the products and operations, and successfully ran it for 27 years, even through a recession. As a business owner, I believe the government should run like a business with checks and balances, cutting red tape and wasteful spending. I will bring my leadership to City Hall and be the CEO of our city. Matthews: I have a long history of being part of more than a few elections here in Decatur. I have many years where I work in the public view, this has enabled me to know hundreds of people who live here in Decatur, and to learn customer service, and to develop lifetime friendships. Whats something unique that you bring to this position? Jackson: I bring unmatched institutional knowledge of how our city functions. No other candidate has the breadth of experience I do, legislatively, administratively, and on the ground with residents. With nearly 30 years on the City Council, I have been part of the decisions that shaped Decatur. I understand the inner workings of city government, from zoning and budgeting to public safety and infrastructure, because I have lived it. My education in business and law gives me the tools to lead with strategy and accountability. But what truly sets me apart is my deep, generational connection to Decatur. My roots in this city go back decades, not just through my own life, but through the lives and legacies of those who came before me. I have grown up in this community, served it, and stayed grounded in its values. I know the people, I know the problems, and more importantly, I know how to get things done. As mayor, Ill bring that experience, that history, and that heart to every decision, because Decatur isnt just where I live. Its home. Lawrence: I have always felt called to serve my community. Since 1996, I have been actively involved with the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, serving as a board member and Executive Board Vice Chair of Leadership, among other leadership roles. I have also been a board member of the Greater Morgan County Home Builders Association and the Entrepreneurial Center, where I served as President. I chaired the City of Decatur Board of Zoning Adjustments, and I am the current Chair of the City of Decatur Planning Commission. However, many people know me best for my involvement with the annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, cooking, serving, and cleaning. I have served on the Kiwanis Board of Directors for several years and has been both the Pancake Day Chair and the club President. Throughout all of this service, along with my career in business, I have learned many traits that I believe will not only serve me well, but more importantly the people. I have learned to be responsive, accountable, and transparentall traits that I believe Decatur desperately needs at this moment in time. Matthews: I trust in God and I have Christian Values. I also know that God will never fail. What do you think is the biggest problem facing Decatur in 2025? Jackson: The biggest challenge facing Decatur in 2025 is trust, trust in our leadership, trust in public safety, and trust in the direction our city is heading. Right now, we do not have a government that is clear, transparent, or truly accountable to the people. Too many decisions are made without public input, and many residents feel left in the dark about how resources are being used. That lack of communication and openness is dividing us at a time when we need to come together. We are also deeply divided on what we believe is best for Decatur, but I believe we have more in common than we think. Its time for honest conversations, shared goals, and leadership that puts people before politics. As mayor, I will work to restore trust by leading with transparency, accessibility, and real community engagement because every resident deserves a seat at the table and a voice in the future of our city. Lawrence: Our biggest challenge is restoring trust in our city government. Matthews: Decatur has had a growing traffic problem over the past 10 years, as a result of growth. How will you prepare Decatur for the rapid growth in north Alabama? Jackson: We need a proactive, not reactive, approach to growth. Decatur is in the path of major regional expansion, and we must be ready, not just to keep up, but to lead. That begins by clearly defining what growth means for our city. Is it population increase, business development, improved infrastructure, or all of the above? Once we define it, we can assess where we are and where we want to go. A major step forward is that we have finally hired a city planner, something Decatur has gone without since 2009. As mayor, Ill start by meeting with our new planner and department heads to align our vision, evaluate our current capabilities, and begin updating our comprehensive plan. We need to expand infrastructure thoughtfully, ensure our schools are prepared, and make Decatur a competitive, attractive place for both families and businesses. Under my leadership, Decatur will grow with purpose, planning, and a commitment to equity and quality of life. Lawrence: The mayor should be the CEO of the city, and I will work with our dept heads, the planning, building, and engineering departments, to ensure they are doing everything possible to help developers build in Decatur, while still upholding our rules and regulations. We must also follow our citys long-range plan, so we are prepared for the future. Decatur is a great place to raise a family with our schools, parks and recreation, and we are seeing a high influx of residential development, which is good, but we must be prepared and have a plan in place. Matthews: Provide alternative transportation, local bus service. Also, open the conversation of a train service to come back to the City of Decatur. How will you balance fiscal responsibility with necessary investments like infrastructure, parks, and schools within the citys budget? Jackson: It is about prioritizing and planning. As mayor, I will focus on long-term budgeting, seek out state and federal funding opportunities, and ensure that every dollar we spend reflects our citys values of equity, safety, and progress. I have always considered myself a fiscal conservative, because the money I would be managing is not mine, it belongs to the people of Decatur. I take that responsibility seriously. I will make sure we are spending based on a clear, transparent plan, not based on who asks the loudest or who stands to benefit personally. This is not about personal agendas or one-off projects. It is about making strategic, community-focused investments that serve the greater good. Every decision will be guided by what moves Decatur forward, not what benefits a few. Fiscal responsibility and smart, inclusive growth can go hand in hand, and under my leadership, they will. Lawrence: A city should run just like a business, as I have stated above. We should cut red tape, do more with less, while providing the best service to citizens. I will put my business experience to work on a day. Matthews: Fiscal responsibilities come with planning, upkeep, and maintenance. Decatur is gifted with many parks across the city, each of which has different needs. The parks are very important to our quality of life here in our city. Each park has needs and wants; therefore, any budget must identify the needs and the wants. How do you think the death of Steve Perkins has impacted Decatur? How do you plan to lead the city after all of the impacts of his death? Jackson: The death of Steve Perkins was a tragic and traumatic moment for Decatur. It shook the communitys trust in law enforcement and city leadership, and the pain and outrage are still deeply felt across the city. We cannot ignore or minimize that pain. Healing begins with truth, accountability, and transparency. As mayor, I will lead with compassion and a commitment to rebuilding trust. That means ensuring open communication, supporting necessary reforms in policing and oversight, and creating space for honest, ongoing dialogue between residents and city leadership. This tragedy also exposed serious gaps in our systems, including the need for better training, clearer policies, and stronger community engagement. That is why I support the direction our new police chief is taking to improve how the department interacts with residents. His efforts to build trust, emphasize transparency, and prioritize de-escalation and accountability are steps in the right direction. Lawrence: When we are faced with emotionally charged or difficult situations, this is when a leader truly leads and emerges to go straight to the front. On day one of the Steve Perkins shooting, I would have reached out to the police chief, our officers, and the Perkins family and had a press conference addressing the issue and also meeting with community leaders. It is and was the Mayors duty to diffuse the situation, not to hide behind closed doors seeking counsel from attorneys and public relations consultants. As your Mayo,r I will not be a politician but a leader in the deepest and darkest times not just in the shining moments for a press opportunity. Matthews: We will support our new Police Chief and will respect and welcome his new ideas. I will not try to give a answer to the unknown. I respect all parties involved in the Steve Perkins Unexpected Horrible Event. This event has taken place at Black Eye on our City, and a terrible and Very Sad heart for the Perkins Family that may never end. The many people I have spoken with during my campaign are hurt that the Steve Perkins episode is now and will always be part of our citys History. How will you help guide the Decatur Police Department after changes to the department and calls for increased transparency? Jackson: As mayor, I will be a resource and a partner to the Decatur Police Department. I will ensure they remain committed to transparency, accountability, and meaningful community engagement. I have always stood firmly in support of our police. That means supporting continued efforts to improve training, oversight, and communication, and making sure the department has the resources it needs to build stronger relationships with the community it serves. I will work closely with the police chief to maintain the momentum we are seeing now and to ensure our officers are equipped not just to enforce the law, but to protect and serve with fairness, integrity, and respect. The department plays a vital role in our citys future, and with the right leadership and support, it can help restore trust and keep all residents safe. Lawrence: I would make sure our law enforcement has the best state-of-the-art equipment they need to protect our community. Also, I would also investigate the pay of our police to see where we compare to neighboring cities. I believe the Chief Torry Macke is doing a great job, and I will support him and his policies while working with him and his command staff. Matthews: We will support our new Police Chief and will respect and welcome his new ideas. I will not try to give an answer to the unknown. I respect all parties involved in the Steve Perkins Unexpected Horrible Event. This event has taken place at Black Eye on our City, and a terrible and Very Sad heart for the Perkins Family that may never end. The many people I have spoken with during my campaign are hurt that the Steve Perkins episode is now and will always be part of our citys History. How have you directly engaged with residents during your campaign? How will you do that during your time as mayor to address concerns before they escalate? Jackson: Throughout my campaign, I have made it a priority to meet residents where they are, whether that is at their front door, over the phone, at community events, or during forums and Q&A sessions. I believe effective leadership starts with listening. I cannot solve problems I dont know about, and concerns can vary greatly from one neighborhood to the next. As mayor, I plan to hold regular district-based town halls so that I hear directly from residents across the entire city. This will ensure that every district has a voice at City Hall and that concerns are addressed in a timely and equitable way. I will also work to implement policies that ensure our city departments and employees are responsive and accountable to the people they serve. Residents should not have to fight to be heard; they should know their city is working for them. That is the kind of leadership I will bring to Decatur. Lawrence: I have run a campaign based on grassroots, by going door to door, having meet and greets throughout the city and attending events. City hall is not the Mayors office, its the peoples office, and I will always have an open-door policy meeting with our citizens, hearing their issues and concerns. As Mayo,r I will not be just in the office but also in the community and available to all of our citizens. Matthews: We will support our new Police Chief and will respect and welcome his new ideas. I will not try to give a answer to the unknown. I respect all parties involved in the Steve Perkins Unexpected Horrible Event. This event has taken place at Black Eye on our City, and a terrible and Very Sad heart for the Perkins Family that may never end. The many people I have spoken with during my campaign are hurt that the Steve Perkins episode is now and will always be part of our citys History. What main concerns are you hearing from residents? How will you address them? Jackson: The biggest concern I hear from residents is about the division in our city, not just socially, but between the community and City Hall. People feel disconnected from their local government, and that is a problem. I have also heard consistent concerns about poor road conditions, lack of communication and transparency, especially around the budget, and lingering frustration over how the previous administration handled key issues. As mayor, I will work to change the culture at City Hall by making communication a priority, ensuring transparency in every department, and rebuilding trust with the community. That starts with listening and creating clear pathways for residents to engage with their city government. I will work to reconnect City Hall to the people it serves, and lead with integrity, accessibility, and accountability. Lawrence: The main thing I am hearing is they want leadership they can trust and someone that can unite and lead our city in the right direction, and I am looking forward to doing just that. Matthews: We will support our new Police Chief and will respect and welcome his new ideas. I will not try to give a answer to the unknown. I respect all parties involved in the Steve Perkins Unexpected Horrible Event. This event has taken place at Black Eye on our City, and a terrible and Very Sad heart for the Perkins Family that may never end. The many people I have spoken with during my campaign are hurt that the Steve Perkins episode is now and will always be part of our citys History. National Guard on the Washington Mall? That's not where the crime is. But this isn't really about crime, is it? (Kyle Cooper/WTOP News via AP) This is an opinion column. Get Kyle Whitmires newsletter, Alabamafication. Sign up here for free . The weekend before Donald Trumps federal takeover of Washington, D.C., my wife and I took our children to walk the National Mall, as we have many times since we moved here. This time we took our dog, too, but not for protection. Our greatest problem was a 6-year-old who ran out of batteries before we could reach the Lincoln Memorial. At least this time, I didnt have to carry her across frozen sidewalks, as I did once in January. We encountered no roving gangs. No one harassed us for money. The only rip-off was the parking meter, which took twice as much as it should have because I couldnt read the dull screen in the bright sun. Typically, we ride the Metro here but it doesnt allow dogs. When we do ride the train, the greatest threat has been passengers with medical emergencies. All it takes is one guy spilling his breakfast on the train up ahead and whole suburbs can be late for work. Police have been present, helpful and friendly including one instance when the 6-year-old decided to ascend the off-limits National Archives steps with one officer chasing her faster than I could. However, I do wish the police had been as speedy with security checks on the Fourth of July. Instead of watching the Beach Boys and Trombone Shorty from the Capitol steps, we had to crash in the grass closer to the Washington Monument and next to some singing nuns. But the fireworks spectacular was just as spectacular, and the sisters knew Woody Guthries repertoire by heart. Washington can be lovely. Our experience has varied, though, when my wife and I have ventured further out, on date nights to the citys restaurants and bars. There are supposedly some nice places to eat here, including several with Michelin stars, but none weve found hold a candle to any of Frank Stitts handiwork in Birmingham. We miss you, chef. The time of day matters, too. Im told by many experienced locals that vermin roam the streets late in the evenings. Not people, mind you, but actual rats that will sprint between your feet with no fear of man. There are Reddit threads dedicated to this topic. None of this is to say Washington cant be a dangerous place. It is. Just not for us. Not on the Mall or in the many museums. And not for most of the folks who come to visit the Capitol (where the non-violent crime happens). The Mall is light on crime, which is why I found the National Guard deploying there this week so puzzling. Its almost like theyre trying not to go where the crime is, but instead, where they are most likely to be seen. The big military show of force the president wanted on his birthday is happening now, instead. Lets not dance around facts. Washington is one of the deadliest cities in America. Its murder rate surpasses that of Alabama, which is one of the deadliest states in America. Alabamas murder rate surpasses that of New York City, which Trump says he might take over next. Perhaps he should consider my Sweet Home state, instead, or maybe thats why hes considering basing a National Guard response team there, according to the Washington Post. Crazy like a fox, that guy. As many have pointed out, the violent crime rate in Washington spiked in 2023 and has been falling sharply since, but it still happens. A lot. And it usually happens to people youve never heard of the people who have been living here all their lives. Crime in D.C. mostly happens in neighborhoods, and then, mostly some neighborhoods the ones where lifelong residents havent yet been pushed out by the cost of living. The people who live there also tend to be Black or brown, except for adventurous, monied white pioneers hunting for the last affordable real estate. When violent crime happens to those folks, it might make the local TV broadcasts, but rarely the national news. But in the rare instance when violent crime happens to a congressional staffer or someone who doesnt fit the profile, so to speak, get ready for Breaking News alerts and big headlines. And so it was with Big Balls. As much as I hate to sully a column with salty language I understand his given name is Edward Coristine the 19-year-old DOGE staffer chose his online handle himself, and who am I to disrespect a man by calling him anything else? Especially after what happened next. At 3 a.m. on Aug. 3, Big Balls was the victim in what has been called an attempted carjacking when he and a young woman were attacked. A group of between 10 and 15 teenagers accosted the couple, police say, and at least one demanded the car. True to his name, Big Balls fought some of the youths and was left bloodied and suffering a concussion. He also had his phone stolen. And heres the part that often gets lost in the retelling the crowd of attackers fled when police pulled up and apprehended two of the teenagers before they could get away. Whatever else anyone wants to say about D.C. police, they werent asleep in their cars or on the wrong block. Without their timely intervention, things might have been much worse. A hundred people have been killed in Washington this year, which sadly counts as an improvement. But it was the assault a week ago that drew the presidents reaction. Laying hands on Big Balls was the Capitol offense. Lets be clear. This should not happen to anyone, anywhere. There are many, many people in Washington who live with the threat of violence hanging overhead every day. They shouldnt have to. And someone should do something about that. But that something needs to be better than a show of force on the National Mall, where youre more likely to be attacked by a duck than a robber. In a meandering press conference, the president let loose a stream of consciousness that included grumpy complaints about the aesthetics of nearby highway medians and bizarre accusations that Democrats want to make everyone trans. It was almost enough to make you think it wasnt about Big Balls or any of the 100 murder victims this year at all. It was in that press conference that Trump also considered taking this show of force to New York City, which, by the data, is a significantly safer place. Youre much more likely to get killed on an Alabama highway than die in a New York City subway. Youre much more likely to get killed in Alabama, period, than in New York City. But what does data mean to a man who will fire the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics over job numbers he didnt like? On the other hand, if hes willing to cook the books, he could have D.C. crime stats down in no time. The political payoff of stoking fear of cities is far greater than actually fixing the crime problems in cities hence why cities still have crime problems. This works much better if the people who suffer from crime are not among your base. And theres always a certain color to the presidents grandstanding on crime. Just ask the Central Park Five. Hes been at this for a long time. No, Trump mentioned New York being next because of its politics, not its crime. So why should we assume his actions in D.C. are any different? Theres a political divide in America, but it isnt between red states and blue states. Its between red states and blue cities. Look at the breakdown of any election on a county-by-county map, and youll see it. Washington, D.C., is on the wrong side of Trump. Thats it. So now, when we take our children for our next weekend stroll, we will have armed forces war fighters, as the presidents political allies like to call them lately to see on domestic streets, not just monuments to those lost in foreign wars. I dont hold it against any of them, though. If they ask nicely, Ill let them pet my dog. Such is family life in occupied Washington. And, hey, at least nobodys talking anymore about Jeffrey Epstein, right? Kyle Whitmire is the Washington watchdog columnist for AL.com and winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize. Subscribe to his newsletter, Alabamafication. Its free. Midfield will hold its municipal election on Aug. 26. Patti Sapone | NJ Advance Media Midfield will hold its municipal election on Aug. 26 to determine who of the three mayoral and six council candidates will represent the city. Mayor Gary Richardson, the citys first Black mayor who has held the seat since 2004, is running for re-election against Terry Adams, the current Place 1 councilor, and Jimmie Robinson, a political newcomer. Richardson is amongst a a group of Jefferson County mayors who feuded over the appointment of a new board member to what was then known as the Birmingham Water Works, accusing other members of being unfair. That feud became moot when the state legislature took control of the water works. In the city council race, Incumbents Janice Anderson, Place 4, and Velma Johnson, Place 5, ran unopposed and have already been certified into the seats. The race for council Places 1,2 and 3 features a pair of competing candidates for each seat. Read the final list of Midfield mayoral and council candidates below: Mayor Place 1 Place 2 Place 3 Lots of misinformation is being spread about President Donald Trumps decision to federalize law enforcement in Washington, D.C. Much of it is the usual Trump Derangement Syndrome: fascist tendencies toward authoritarianism at the expense of black and brown people because of DJTs racism and desire to bury the Epstein scandal. Theres no emergency justifying the takeover. The solution is to do what Democrats failed to do for decades: Make DC the 51st state so it need not undergo such humiliation. Where to start? My point of departure is political. Washington is the federal city. The Constitution is explicit. Congress has exclusive jurisdiction over the district constituting the seat of government. Washington was a political compromise neutral territory between North and South, chosen as an uninhabited swamp between Maryland and Virginia (and conveniently upriver from George Washingtons Mount Vernon). It was supposed to be apolitical. Democrats want to make it hyper-political. The reaction to the Trump federalization of D.C. law enforcement is to claim that this proves we should have made D.C. a state! Well, no it doesnt. All it proves is your naked political ambitions to guarantee the left two senators and a bunch of congressmen. Theres a lot of jabber about home rule. There are two largely unmentioned facts about home rule. First, it is an historical anomaly. Nobody talked about D.C. home rule until 1974. For nearly 185 years of the Republic, D.C. functioned under its constitutional identity as the federal district. And dont tell me that the string of illustrious nobodies leading D.C. for the past 50 years including such a distinguished figure as Mayor Marion Barry, convicted for possession and use of crack cocaine proves the merits of home rule. It arguably demonstrates the opposite. Second, whatever home rule D.C. has is whatever Congress gives it. Its government has the powers Congress delegates no more, no less. It exists at the sufferance of Congress i.e., the collective decision of the people of the United States (as the Constitution intended). So all these claims about denying home rule are so much political smoke. Congressional Democrats have been trying to hike Washingtons political clout for decades. Back in the days of home rule, the Democrat Congress even thought of giving D.C. congressional seats as if it were a state. Such a constitutional amendment was even proposed in 1978. It passed the Senate with the bare minimum of votes and died in ratification, having been approved by only 16 (mostly blue) of the required 38 states. Democrats learned their lesson: A constitutional amendment to give D.C. congressional seats would never be ratified, because small (especially small red) states were not going to lose seats to the District. They understood the difference between a state and a district. Thats when liberals switched to their statehood tactic it avoids needing approval from those pesky states! Id argue that Congress cannot constitutionally make D.C. a state. What would be the State of Columbia is land given by Maryland to create the district constituting the seat of government of the United States. That bequest was for a specific purpose. If Congress does not want to administer all that land, it cannot invent a new state. The proper response would be to return the land to Maryland. Theres precedent for that: Congress in the 19th century gave back the land Virginia had ceded for the capital, which is todays Arlington. That does not amplify Democrat political power in Congress, while it introduces a new squabble into very blue Marylands Democrat politics: the boys of Baltimore and Annapolis would now have to share power with the Washington crowd. I make these points because, despite all the rhetoric about home rule, the truth is that Americans think of Washington first and foremost as our capital. It is the nations capital, not the next oppressed victim stifled by the norms of the U.S. Constitution. And as long as Americans as a whole regard Washington in a qualitatively different way from other places as our capital that aligns with the constitutional vision of a congressionally governed district and not the next blue political machine. That leads me to my second point: crime. Liberal apologists have fomented all types of excuses to claim that the president had no authority to federalize D.C. law enforcement, that it was discriminatory and diversionary, etc., etc. Crime is supposedly on the way down. Lets talk. In 2023, there were 274 murders in Washington, D.C. That means one human being killed every 31 hours. Every day and a half. Senate Democrat whip Dick Durbin of Illinois claimed theres no emergency justifying Trumps action. Does one dead human being every 31 hours not constitute an emergency? In whose cosseted world? Perhaps a murder every day and a half is normal or statistically to be expected in some peoples minds but I suspect few of those holding that opinion have ever stood in front of the business end of a knife or gun. A murder every day and a half is an emergency. Maybe its not an emergency in Chicago or New York, but Washington is at root the district constituting the seat of government of the United States, and most Americans would think a murder every day and a half is an emergency. Because Washington stands in a unique relationship with congressional and executive power, it is also appropriate that the national capital be a showcase of law and order, not the morass of restorative justice and the latest liberal pipe dreams of criminal justice reform that exacerbate crime. Therein lies the real liberal objection: If Donald Trump can make an example out of Washington, it calls into question the policing reform and criminal justice agendas of crime-ridden major cities, potentially auguring political realignments there that liberals do not want to see. Yes, the talking heads attacking Trump cited other cities as being more crime-ridden. You do have a better chance getting murdered in Detroit than D.C. But national tourism to Detroit hardly mirrors D.C., and most Americans dont want to die in either. So lets stop the lies, damn lies, and statistics and address the reality of whats behind this opposition: pursuing political ambition and defending failed policies. Image via Picryl. As others have already written, Beto ORourke recently spoke to a crowd in Texas stating, There are no refs in this game. F**k the rules! We are going to win whatever it takes. Talk about stating the obvious. Democrats have never cottoned to been bound by the rules, although this may be the first time a prominent one said F**k the rules to an audience. Then again, as much as theyve all been cussing lately, maybe not. One thing is clear: Democrats have sworn off American citizens in favor of, well, anybody and everybody else. ORourke spoke of redoubling Democrats efforts at gerrymandering and vowed that when Democrats regain power, they will immediately grant amnesty to illegals. Knock me over with a feather. In short, ORourke told the 200+ people packing the Ridglea Theater that Democrats will do whatever it takes to regain power. Yes, and the sun sets in the west. Now tell me something I dont know. Democrats always do whatever it takes to retain, augment, or regain power. Always. Hence the Russia-Collusion Hoax, the Plandemic and consequent mail-in voting, impeachments, lawfare, etc., etc., etc. ORourke also claimed of Democrats: In Texas, our knees do not bend. I, well, [fill in your own joke here.] He further opined, that illegal aliens do the back-breaking work that makes this country so goddamned great in the first place. No, those who came here legally in the past intending to become Americans in every way made this country God-blessed great in the first place. There is an enormous difference between the two. The difference between a society based on limited government and the rule of law that respects the rights individuals have been granted by their Creator and one in which intersectionality, entitlement, and criminality necessitates a massive government and leads to a two-tier justice system that eschews individuals in favor of favored groups. We have always known Democrats will do anything anything at all to further their own power. (See also Tammany Hall, slavery, secession, the Civil War, Richard Daley, the Clintons, Adam Schiff, etc., etc.) John Adams famously stated: "Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious People. Todays Democrats favor unfettered immigration, abortion until the moment of birth, the mutilation of childrens genitals, the conflating of man and woman, medical assistance in dying (MAID), and a dozen other insane policies that coincidentally, of course line the pockets of their benefactors and themselves. Moral and religious people? Most of todays Democrats are the polar opposite of that. Does that make them unconstitutional? Image: Screen shot from X video There you go again, to remember one of President Reagan's greatest lines. The Democrats have chosen a new way to win public opinion in Texas. It goes something like this: We scream, use "expletives deleted," and promise not to follow the rules. Believe it or not, that's Betos plan. This is from Andrew Stiles: The Democratic Party is hideously unpopular heading into next year's midterms. This is a problem for the small faction of Democrats who think the party should prioritize winning elections over throwing performative tantrums and other theater kid nonsense. It's less of a problem for the Democrats who are actually leading the party right now and setting the agenda for 2026. They are loud, obnoxious, profane, and passionate in their defense of illegal immigrants and other criminals. Rules? They don't believe in rules. "There are no refs in this game," said Beto O'Rourke, the thrice-failed candidate for governor, president, and U.S. Senate, at a rally in support of Texas Democrats who fled the state to avoid doing their jobs. "Fuck the rules, we are going to win. Whatever it takes." O'Rourke has emerged as one of the Democratic Party's most prominent leaders after his political action committee paid for the private jet that took the fleeing Democrats to Illinois earlier this month. This week, Texas attorney general Ken Paxton asked a judge to order Beto's arrest after the obnoxious Columbia grad violated a court order by continuing to raise money to support the fugitives. O'Rourke, who flamed out of the 2020 primary after yelling profanely about abolishing guns, has also urged Democrats to fight harder in defense of the illegal immigrant community "that makes this country so goddamn great." When Democrats reclaim power, he said, they would "drive that car like we stole it" to end deportations and approve a sweeping amnesty bill for unlawful residents. As you probably know, Beto O'Rourke didn't do well with that message. No one took him seriously when he ran for President in 2000, and lost to Governor Greg Abbott in 2022, who simply filled the airwaves with campaign ads based on Beto's Greatest Hits. Well, it does appear that the boys and girls are back in town. Yes, they are out of money and not persuading too many people by doing The Don Lemon Show. The maps will happen, Jasmine will have to compete for her seat with another Democrat, and Beto is using a lot of profanity to get attention. P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos. Image: AT via Magic Studio Recently, I had the privilege of bringing former U.S. ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee on a visit that was quiet in nature but thunderous in meaning. Together, we sat with two of the greatest Torah sages of our generation Rav Dov Landau and Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch in the heart of Bnei Brak. The conversations we shared were not political. They were foundational. We spoke about the soul of the Jewish people. At a time when Israel is navigating deep political turmoil, military challenges, and national trauma, one debate has returned to the forefront with intensity: the drafting of ultra-Orthodox young Jewish men who commit their lives to Torah study (Haredi yeshiva students) into the army. To many, this is framed as an issue of equality, fairness, or national unity. But from the perspective of the Torah world and indeed from the lens of Jewish eternity it is something far deeper and far more dangerous. To understand why, one must first understand what Torah means to the Jewish people. It is not merely a body of laws or customs; it is the very justification for our presence in the Land of Israel. Our covenant with God, as outlined in the Torah, is the foundation upon which Jewish nationhood is built. Without it, we are not at all different from any other nation. And without those who dedicate their lives to the study and preservation of Torah, the transmission of that foundation is lost. Throughout history, we have seen that when Torah observance weakens, the identity and continuity of the Jewish people begin to unravel. This is a spiritual truth. The yeshiva students in Israel today are not avoiding service; they are serving the Jewish people in the most essential way by anchoring our nation to its divine mission. This does not mean there is no room for discussion. The Talmud itself debates the balance between military defense and spiritual commitment. But what we are seeing today is an attempt to erase the Torahs role in Israels future. To conscript every yeshiva student, to treat spiritual scholarship as dispensable, is to declare that Jewish survival rests solely on might, not meaning. That is a recipe for spiritual self-destruction. Israel must never become a nation that forgets who it is. We are a holy nation tasked with a divine purpose. The horrors of our history the Holocaust, the inquisitions, the exiles were not meant to transform us into a people of power alone. They were meant to remind us of our unique mission in the world. Ambassador Huckabee understands this. His reverence for the Torah and its scholars is sincere and profound. In our meetings, he emphasized that the world looks to Israel not only as a bastion of democracy and strength, but as a light unto nations. That light emanates from the Torah, from the very people who are now being asked to set it aside. We are not blind to the challenges. There must be responsibility; there must be national cohesion. But it must not come at the cost of our soul. Yeshiva students are not freeloaders of the Jewish state; they are the spiritual defenders of its essence. If Israel becomes a nation where Torah is no longer central if every Jew is a soldier but none is a scholar we will have won battles but lost our purpose. The Jewish people were never meant to be like every other nation. And we dare not try to be. Image via Pxbarn. The New York Times published a piece yesterday entitled Some Democrats Panicked Over Mamdani. Obama Called Him. Obama hasnt given his official endorsement yet. This was just a friendly little phone call, evidently. Heres part of what the article said: The interest from the closely guarded world of Mr. Obama and those around him is the clearest sign yet that Mr. Mamdani is likely to be embraced by the Democratic mainstream, whether the partys leaders and donors like it or not [emphasis added]. Whether the partys leaders and donors like it or not sounds pretty authoritarian, and par for the course for The One. And really, par for the course for the party which nominated Kamala Harris without a single vote. But back to The Lightbringer: Obama always did whatever was good for Obama, party be damned. Not entirely sure what Obama thinks Mamdani can do for him, other than break his horrendous record for endorsements, but Mamdani may want to think twice. Mamdani appears to be on a glide path to securing NYCs mayors office (which no doubt factors into Obamas decision to call him that and him being an out-of-the-closet socialist) but an Obama endorsement? Mamdani may want to check the rearview mirror. Via NPR, right after Obama left Office: Every president sees his party lose hundreds of positions but no president has come close to Obama. During Obamas eight years in office, the Democrats have lost more House, Senate, state legislative and governors seats than under any other president. [snip] Democrats currently hold fewer elected offices nationwide than at any time since the 1920s [emphasis added]. Obama left the Democrat party an absolutely smoldering ruin. Just gutted. And why? To line his own pockets. Via an April 4, 2025 New York Post piece: Barack Obama destroyed the Democratic Party by competing for power and money with his own organization: new book The book, Fight: Inside the Wildest Battle for the White House, claims that Obama was never a Democratic Party loyalist. Obamas creation of Organizing for Action a nonprofit that launched in 2012 following Obamas re-election to advance his legislative priorities fractured the Democratic Party, according to the book, authored by political journalists Jonathan Allen of NBC News and Amie Parnes of The Hill. Though Organizing for Action never realized his vision, it competed with the party for power and money, the book said. He left the Democratic Party far weaker than he found it. Or, as one party operative put it, Obama destroyed that s. [Emphasis added] If OfA did any good, or his other organization, My Brothers Keeper, has done any good for anyone other than Obama, I havent seen it. Newsweek had a piece a few weeks ago entitled Intersectional Communist Zohran Mamdani Shows Democrats Cant Quit Obamaism. Now, I dont know what intersectional communism is but it sounds bad. Like something youd need amoxycillin for. In any case, the Democrat party is still in shambles. Seems four years of Obamas VP in the White House then his Kamala endorsement didnt do a thing to help reassemble his once much vaunted, now long gasping coalition. It has been painfully obvious, ever since the presidential election last November [2024], that the Democratic Partys brand is in tatters. [snip] [I]t is clear that Barack Obamas winning 2008 political coalitioncomprising racial and ethnic minorities, young people, and highly educated whiteshas completely withered. Obamaism is deadand Democrats have to reconcile themselves to that demise. At minimum, they should stop taking advice from Obama himself; the 44th president was Kamala Harris top 2024 campaign trail surrogate, and we saw how that worked out. Obama was the penultimate D.E.I. hire and as such, he cannot be thrown overboard, at least overtly. If the Democrats want to distance themselves from him, theyll have to do it from the shadows. Like the light that touches everything Mufasa sees in the Lion Kings kingdom, the Democrats kingdom, such as it is, is The Lightbringers, so theyll have to reconcile that in the darkest corners of whatever comes next for this shambolic party. Image generated by AI. Some readers may disagree, but I get the sense that corporations, especially large bureaucratic ones, foster leaders who do not possess strong opinions about anything. The leaders that do emerge seem to be pliant creatures who practice a repugnant form of leadership through consensus, continually testing the waters to determine the least offensive position that they might take for the moment. Granted, there are exceptions to this rule like Chris Wright, the CEO of Liberty Energy, who Trump tapped for Energy Secretary, and even Elon Musk, who despite his dumb-headed notion of an E.V. future for all has strong opinions about where things should head. Why are there so many servile nullities pervading our corporate leadership class? The most prominent case in point, are the CEOs of the oil majors. They spend half their time walking around with their head down and the other half apologizing for the perceived ills their product may have inflicted upon society. I was recently struck by the following passage from an article in The Economist: That includes the oil-and-gas industry, which is struggling to find a way to decarbonise profitably. Murray Auchincloss, bps boss, announced a shift away from renewable energy and back to fossil fuels in a fundamental reset earlier this year. On July 22nd news broke that Shell, Enbridge and Aker bp, three oil companies, had quit the SBTis advisory group set up to define what net zero means for oil companies. They are said to have left because they were told achieving it would mean not developing new oil- and gas-fields. For those that have not read The Economist, this is standard fare from a magazine that whole-heartedly embraces the platform of the World Economic Forum. However, my point is that the passage unwittingly reflects poorly on the forward-thinking ability of the CEOs of the three oil companies. They join an advisory group set up to define what net zero means for oil companies, only to be told later that achieving it would mean not developing new oil and gas fields. In the words of Homer Simpson, Doh! What explains such cluelessness? One explanation might be the degree to which they are beholden to institutional investors. CEOs cravenly seek the approval of institutional investors who have the power to sink their stock price by selling a large number of shares if they dont like what they see or hear coming from a CEO. As a class, institutional investors are even worse than CEOs. They are conditioned to rationalize anything. They embrace new (corporate) fashions as enthusiastically as any New York City socialite shopping at Bergdorf Goodman. In the same article referenced earlier, another passage gives one a feel for the mindset of institutional investors: Financial institutions are also backsliding. Along with hsbc, big American banks including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have dropped out of the nzba [Net-Zero Banking Alliance], as have some from Japan and Canada. The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, a think-tank, estimates that the leavers account for two-fifths of the groups total assets. The same problems are afflicting similar organisations, such as the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative. This year Wells Fargo, another American bank, scrapped some of its emissions-reduction plans and in March Switzerlands ubs pushed back its climate targets after acquiring Credit Suisse. Part of the problem for financial institutions is politics, which was shifting even before Donald Trump returned to the White House. In America Republican senators have suggested that joining a green alliance could breach antitrust rules. Since Mr. Trumps re-election the pressure has been cranked up. In January ten state attorneys-general wrote to Americas biggest financial firms, including BlackRock and Goldman Sachs, threatening legal action if the companies did not change their climate and diversity policies. What can we infer from the passage about institutional investors? It is not a flattering picture. After years of burdening corporate leaders with having to reach arbitrary net zero metrics, institutional investors are scrapping it as they sense that the public is not buying into the woke agenda. It is a sad indictment of corporate America that CEOs are so cringingly servile and institutional investors so vacuous. Image generated by AI. I received my best and most important education as a child at the Sacred Heart Convent in suburban D.C. My parents took me there in the second grade after pulling me from a D.C. public school, where I was abused verbally by a teacher and ended up in bed with asthma for two weeks. I converted to Catholicism at the cloistered Sacred Heart Convent in the second grade. The Sacred Heart nuns did this for me, and more: taught me how to read as I could not in second grade due to a mild form of what they would call dyslexia now; taught me about faith and trust in Jesus and the supremacy of divine love; taught me about self-control and focusing my ambition to the good. When my hearing left me permanently at age fifteen, I was thrown back on what I had received from these holy, cloistered women: a weak vessel, I know the nuns saved my adulthood and therefore my life. The Sacred Heart mothersthe Sister order to the Jesuits with that teachers charism- set a high bar for my subsequent interactions with nuns. Since then, I have been in periodic contact, both distant and personal and professional, with a variety of nuns. Here, I want to concentrate on the radicalized nuns, the ones who began to exercise some political force via South Americas Liberation Theology movement (at the time of Pope Francis Jesuit education there.) By the 1970s, the radical nuns began to show their influence in the Catholic Church. They were in outright rebellion from selected Church teachings in a host of areas. I saw this firsthand when I returned, in the late 1980s, to DC to work at the Catholic University of America. At that time, I was living, financially destitute, in a dorm room on campus, working, and taking classes in biblical languages. My floor of the dorm was otherwise reserved exclusively for nuns I got there as a special free favor. I was the only woman on the nun floor who attended Sunday Mass regularly. Most of the dorm nuns were kind to me, but distant. My best friend was my cat Nurse Betty, an old tabby of mine, who sat on my stomach and nursed me through the start of severe diabetes. I talked to these nuns on the floor, and they assured me that my attendance at Mass was not obligatory and that they saw no reason for me to go. Mostly, I probably amused them. My husband-to-be, back in the late 80s, was himself a victim of a nuns spiritual formation zeal. At the Catholic University of America, she attacked and insulted him verbally and publicly as someone who needed counseling for his conservative Catholic beliefs. The Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCD) has female and male branches. My husband was at that time in training to take his vows as a brother (not a priest) in the OCD order in D.C. He was recommended for counseling by this same nun, also a formator. The OCD counseling consisted of a series of abusive psychological interviews. Fast forward to the 90s, and I was in charge, still deaf, of the national fund development programs at the Council of the U.S., St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP), in Saint Louis. At that time, a Daughter of Charity (a sister order to SVdP) was in charge of spiritual formation. SVdP is a lay Catholic organization that gives all forms of free, basic charity by regular home visits to the poor locally. Soon, there were two sisters (one from another order) working in my National SVdP office focused entirely on spiritual formation for the laity. Both sisters at SVdP were politically akin to the ones I bunked down with in D.C.: they openly eschewed such traditional oddities as regular Mass attendance, and the Eucharist, and were outspoken on the needs to bring the SVdP laity, who really just wanted to help the poor at home, into better spiritual mettle. The SVdP nuns in the office changed from enthusiastic about me to very hostile, as they came to understand that I was a traditional Catholic and not a feminist, in their version of that. I was professionally undermined and personally insulted by both, and both, tellingly, spoke derisively about my deafness with other staff in the break room, thinking I could not hear them. (I couldnt hear them, but my own staff reported back to me.) If the reader has been patient with my tale thus far, I am now in the present and in Louisiana. We have in our semi-rural, cherished neighborhood, a female Order of the Discalced Carmelites who share a lovely, small campus and church -- too beautiful and uniquely, aesthetically feminine to believe if you havent seen it. The Sisters offer daily Mass, with local priests in service, to the Catholic laity. (Our OCD nuns draw a very regular, even daily, faithful lay attendance - -except during the COVID years, when the heavy liberal hand of the USCCB and the archbishop closed them down, effectively). It is difficult to overestimate the critical ministry of our local OCD sisters to the faithful laity here; the sisters are essential to both the nearer and wider community. Very recently, this OCD lost all but two of the current sisters, the balance having absconded in the night, under darkness, to shock and devastate both two sisters remaining as well as all of the laity who need them. The scuttlebutt is that the local and possibly regional leadership, the nuns, in charge of spiritual formation were/are behind the shock action. I am told, by one of the two nuns who were left behind as the others absconded, that the formation director -- and possibly the formation group regionally -- was unhappy with the conservative, cloistered, and traditional values those values installed by St. Theresa of Avila herself, Doctor of the Church, and founder of the reformed Carmelites of the OCD to which our little church and order pledges fidelity. Whatever happened, in any fairness, the sisters who abandoned their posts in darkness were well aware of the requirements of their cloistered vocations before and upon entry. The willfulness and brutality of the sneak away harks back to the radicalized behavior of the cohort of radicalized nuns evident from the 1960s. And we wonder why the Catholic orders are steadily failing. Also, the typical disregard for the strain on the Catholic faithful laity, that now sees its local beloved order and church threatened by closure, is staggering but in no way unprecedented. This is the same disregard I saw in D.C. and later in St. Louis: the assumption that is, to my mind, characteristic of the radicalized Catholic nun: that she knows better than the Church itself, and its catechism, its canon law, and its encyclicals, what is good for the Catholic Church. Tell that to Rome. Or, better still, tell that to Jesus. Image: Grok, ai-generated image, via X Leftists have long held no qualms about assassination against their rivals, and in Colombia, where narcoterrorism is also a problem and left-narco alliances are common, it has started up again.. But at least we have a secretary of state who is wise to what's going on. This week, Secretary of State Marco Rubio sent a high-level delegation to Bogota after a leading Colombian presidential candidate, conservative Sen. Miguel Uribe, died of his wounds in a June shooting by a criminal known as a 'sicario' or hitman who obviously had a sponsor. Rubio seems to know who that might be, though, and has dialed up the pressure on the radical leftist in the presidential palace, Gustavo Petro, which tells us a lot about what he thinks is going on. According to the expat-oriented City Paper of Bogota, in a piece that ran two days ago, Rubio sent in his big guns to the funeral of the murdered conservative presidential candidate, Miguel Uribe -- dispatching Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau to interrupt his regularly scheduled trip there to lead a high powered delegation, which included GOP Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio, a Colombian-American whose Colombian brother used to run the Inter-American Development Bank, and who obviously, is very connected in Colombian power circles outside the far-left Petro government. The City Paper noted: Landau said his trip would demonstrate deep concern and stressed Colombias strategic importance to the United States, particularly on migration and other regional issues. He also reaffirmed the solid diplomatic relationship between Washington and Bogota, underscoring U.S. commitment to defending democracy and condemning political persecution of opposition leaders. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed his condolences, saying he was deeply saddened by the assassination. The United States stands in solidarity with his family, the Colombian people, both in mourning and demanding justice for those responsible, he said. It probably doesn't look like much at first glance given the cordial words, and given that Landau is hardly a household name, but when one reads further -- yeah, it's a big deal, City Paper continued: While senior U.S. officials occasionally attend high-profile funerals abroad, analysts note that Landaus decision to alter his travel schedule he was originally headed to Cartagena later this week breaks with protocol and sends a deliberate message to Casa de Narino [the Colombian presidential palace]. The visit comes as Colombian authorities face mounting pressure to ensure the safety of political candidates ahead of the 2026 elections. ... and this ... The U.S. attendance, combined with high-profile calls for justice from Washington shows that Uribe Turbays killing is being treated not only as a Colombian tragedy, but as a matter of hemispheric concern. The visit comes just days after President Petro expressed solidarity with Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro, following a U.S. decision to double its reward to US$50 million for information leading to his arrest for being one of the largest narco-traffickers in the world, stated U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. What's more, investigators have learned that the weapon used to kill Uribe was a Glock-style weapon legally purchased in Mesa, Arizona, in 2020. Colombian radio noted that illegal migrants, in what's called a 'hormigueo' or tingling ant chain, are frequently used to transport weapons back to Colombia, which right there makes it a U.S. concern. The narco detail regarding Petro cited by the City Paper, is worth noting, too, because Colombia's former vice president, Pacho Santos, seems to think that Petro had something to do with this killing, not only because he is a leftist but also because he is an ally of drug kingpins, one of which is Nicolas Maduro of Venezuela, who has been identified by the Justice Department as a bona fide drug kingpin. Petro tiene las manos manchadas de sangre. Durante tres anos senalo a Miguel Uribe, le puso la diana y la mafia hizo el resto. Casualidad? No!vEs el Pacto de la Picota en accion: un plan para que la mafia ponga presidente en 2026 como en tiempos de Escobar. La pic.twitter.com/P3qfNtau6V Pacho Santos (@PachoSantosC) August 13, 2025 Google Translate: Petro has blood on his hands. For three years, he pointed at Miguel Uribe, put a target on him and the mafia did the rest. Coincidence? No! Its the Picota Pact in action: a plan for the mafia to install a president in 2026 just like in Escobars times. Democracy is at stake. For Miguel. For freedom. Lets not let the mafia win! I invite you to read my full column at @infobae The link to the Infobae piece is here, and he argues, via Google Translate: The opposition must understand that in the 2026 elections, drug traffickers, like Pablo Escobar in 1990, will play to favor a president and his candidate. The reason? Never, not even with Ernesto Samper, have they had such a close ally in power. Petro released them from prison to take them to a political event of his, he's expanding the cocaine trade like never before, or perhaps when Juan Manuel Santos dismantled the anti-drug policy in 2013, he offered them all kinds of benefits in a law about to be passed by Congress, ended the eradication policy, and handed over to his best friend, drug trafficker Nicolas Maduro, the Catatumbo region where 30 percent of Colombia's cocaine is produced. Do you want more evidence? Santos is an unusually good observer here, having been way too close to the 'action' in his lifetime. He is a conservative who served as vice president to President Alvaro Uribe, who destroyed FARC's Marxist narcoterrorists -- and is cousin to President Uribe's more liberal immediate successor, Juan Manuel Santos, both the scions of a prominent newspaper family. More to the point, Pacho Santos and Diana Turbay, Miguel Uribe's mother, were journalists kidnapped by Pablo Escobar in 1990 in a terrifying ordeal written about by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, in his News of a Kidnapping, one of his finest books. President Alvaro Uribe and Sen. Miguel Uribe are not related but were political allies. I've spent time with Pacho Santos on a few occasions back in the early aughts and recall how obsessed he was with stomping out drug dealers who have done so much damage to Colombia. I recall his speaking at UCLA at a time when drug legalization was a fashionable topic and he warned it was a really bad idea, given the experience in Colombia. Now he's warning that the attack on Uribe was drug-related, and the Colombian state under leftist rule is pretty well headed toward Venezuelan-style narcostate status, which will happen a lot faster in Colombia than it did in Venezuela and for that Petro needs to be thrown out. Marco Rubio obviously understands the picture, too, which explains the actions taken, Rubio is on it, and he's going o find a way to stop this from advancing. Colombia should never descend into a narcostate again. This killing is a warning it's well on its way. But Rubio is on the job. Dramatic scenes Monday inside Colombia's Capitol. A national tragedy. https://t.co/VHw3qW3bP2 THE CITY PAPER (@citypaperbogota) August 12, 2025 It is a sad ordeal for Colombia. The man with the white hair in the photo above lost his only son to this sicario, who told investigators he killed for money, on top of losing his wife, Diana Turbay, to these same kinds of narcoterrorists. Image: X screen shot The BLS has great flexibility on seasonal adjustments and sampling techniques. They frequently make significant monthly changes to employment numbers. Three months before the 2024 election, and seventeen months after they released the initial numbers, the BLS reduced jobs created for the year by over 800,000. This number is not highlighted as much as the monthly numbers. In October 2024, in the last employment report before the election, the BLS made the biggest seasonal adjustment ever. But according to most media outlets and experts no one should question the numbers, and it is Trumps fault that anyone would now mistrust the numbers. Well, I have questions about some other big numbers the government puts out: In FY 2022, the government said the deficit was $1.4 trillion, but the debt went up $2.5 trillion, from $28.4 trillion to $30.9 trillionso where did the extra $1.1 trillion go? And this unexplained additional debt goes on every year: In FY 2023, the deficit was said to be $1.7 trillion but the debt went up $2.3 trillion to $33.2 trillion, so that is another unexplained $600 billion. In FY 2024, the deficit was listed as around $1.8 trillion, but debt went up $2.3 trillion to $35.5 trillion. So, in three short years, the debt went up $2.2 trillion more than the deficits the government said. Shouldnt we all want to know why $2.2 trillion additional money was printed? How much spending is off-budget? On audited statements in the private sector, a required statement is the sources and uses of fundsso why does the government have less transparency? The public certainly has a right to know. There are over 400 departments (fiefdoms) in the executive branch and judges, most of the media, bureaucrats, other Democrats, and some Republicans are fighting hard to block Trump from digging in to see how the money is spent, and trying to protect the bloated number of bureaucrats instead of worrying about the rest of us. The Census: In the 2020 census, there were significant miscounts in 14 states. These numbers greatly influence elections as they determine the number of congressional seats and electoral votes. The data also determines how much government each state gets. I dont understand why we include illegals in the counts? Also, how do you get accurate numbers, since I am sure they move around and we are told no one knows how many there are in any given area? Somehow, five out of six of the significant undercounts were in Republican states. And six out of the eight significant overcounts were in Democrat states. From NPR: A follow-up survey the bureau conducted to measure the national tally's accuracy found significant net undercount rates in six states: Arkansas (5.04%), Florida (3.48%), Illinois (1.97%), Mississippi (4.11%), Tennessee (4.78%) and Texas (1.92%). It also uncovered significant net overcount rates in eight states Delaware (5.45%), Hawaii (6.79%), Massachusetts (2.24%), Minnesota (3.84%), New York (3.44%), Ohio (1.49%), Rhode Island (5.05%) and Utah (2.59%). Why should we trust the overall census when there are so many significant errors, and why should we be forced to have electoral votes based on bad numbers for ten years? COVID deaths: Before COVID, deaths from the flu and other diseases were counted as caused by the disease, but suddenly for COVID, they included deaths where the person possibly had COVID, no matter how many other diseases the person had. The death numbers were intentionally inflated. Temperature data: The weather stations have been moved from rural to urban areas over the years, and that clearly skews the results, because cement, asphalt, and buildings are warmer than grass, shade, and trees. There is no way that anyone can calculate an average global temperature one thousand years ago, one hundred years ago, or today. Seventy percent of the earth is covered by water, and 70% of temperature data is not gathered above the water. Crime rate: We are told the crime rate is down in D.C., but a police commander apparently falsified the data: The Press and Dems Push Back on Trump D.C. Announcement, but Theres Proof They Are Lying About the Data In a report published in July, it was revealed that a D.C. police commander was recently suspended for falsifying data to improve the citys crime statistics. How many places does this occur? Numbers, statistics, seasonal data, polls, and statistical sampling are easy to manipulate. It is a shame that most of the media just repeat what they are told instead of doing research. Image from Grok. Conservatives have been trying to nail Bill and Hillary Clintons collective hides to the barn door for a generationmake that two. Time flies whether or not youre having fun, and for the Clintons, fun means staying one step ahead of the GOP. Just when the opposition looked ready to catch them red-handed, quicker than you can say Rose Law Firm, theyd pull a rabbit out of the hator the more feckless, easily distracted Republicans would chase a rabbit trail instead. In the end, you came to expect that the Clintonsslick, greasy operators to the lastwould wriggle free. And so it went. But maybe, just maybe, in this new golden era, times have changed. Hope springs eternal. And no, Im not talking about either Hope or Hot Springs, Arkansas, where Bill hails fromdespite his revisionist geography. Back in the day, Hot Springs had a tawdry streaklittle wonder Bill turned out as he did. On Wednesday, news broke of a newly declassified FBI timeline into the investigationif you can call it thatof the Clinton Foundation, the charitable wing of Clinton, Inc. John Solomon and Jerry Dunleavy of Just the News rolled it out, and its a genuine eye-opener. The Foundation, like its principals, has always been too slick by half, but the real revelation is how hard the Obama-era powers-that-were worked to keep the Clinton catsone a feral tom, the other a diva on a velvet pillowstuffed in the bag. The FBIs own Clinton Foundation Meeting Timeline reads like a parody of Perry Mason. Five minutes before the end of the show, you always knew Hamilton Burgers airtight case would suddenly collapse, and Raymond Burr would stroll out of the courtroom with that sly, knowing grin. In this real-life version, the Hamilton Burgers and Lieutenant Traggs at the FBI never even made it to the five-minute mark. The rug was yanked from under them again and againhunting big game while the Obama administration seemed determined to trip them before they could even take aim. The timeline documents a federal investigation into one of Americas most politically connected charities, repeatedly slow-walked, road-blocked, andat a key momentallegedly ordered to shut it down by the Deputy Attorney General herself. Zounds! Who could have possibly seen that comingaside from anyone with a pulse and a passing familiarity with the Clintons, and now, increasingly, with the Obama administrations role in protecting them? Heres the quick run-down: As early as February 2016, Main Justice told the FBI flat out it would not be supportive of a Clinton Foundation investigation. Then the Bureaus Deputy Director, Andrew McCabeyes, that McCabelaid down his own rule: no overt investigative steps without his personal say-so. In Washington-speak, thats doubling down on killing the probe in its crib. Before anything could be done, agents had to trek to the corner office at the Hoover Building and secure the Deputy Directors blessing. Understood? Not everyone took the hint. About a month later came the hammer blow. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates allegedly issued the order: shut it down. Not slow it down or rethink the scope. Shut. It. Down. Yet some of the rank and file kept at it. Hardy souls. By August 2016, both the Southern and Eastern Districts of New Yorkthe very turf where the Foundation was headquarteredtold the FBI they would not support the investigation. Translation: the same prosecutors whod be responsible for taking this case to court and pressing charges told the investigators to get lost. Post-election, Justice Department brass began floating a new excuse: statute of limitations. Translation: Mission Accomplishedtheyd run out the clock. Now contrast that with Obamalands posture toward the Trump-Russia Crossfire Hurricane probe. That investigation was launched at the speed of gossip and pursued with the urgency of a Black Friday sale. No pauses for election-year sensitivities or presidential transition niceties. No handwringing over the provenance of the Steele dossier. The citizens of this republicand President Trump himselfhave every right to question the dichotomy: when the target was Trump, leadership charged ahead at warp speed; when it was the Clintons, it was slow motion, stonewalls, andthen poofthe statute of limitations rabbit magically appeared out of the governments hat. This story cannotand should notend here. While the statute of limitations may block prosecution for the original acts, new evidence can surface, new crimes can be committed, and there may yet be the appetite at Justice to see things through finally. Which is why, perhaps, the pucker factor at Chateau du Clinton in Chappaqua is tighter now than its been in years. Indeed, hope springs eternal. 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 from Grok. In 1745, a Polish parish priest named Benedykt Joachim Chmielowski published Nowe Ateny (New Athens), the first encyclopedia ever written in the Polish language. Spanning nearly a thousand pages, divided into thematic classes rather than arranged alphabetically, it was intendedas its sprawling subtitle announcedfor the wise to remember, for fools to learn, for politicians to practice, for melancholics to entertain. It drew on more than a hundred sources, from the Bible and Aristotle to Pliny the Elder and contemporary European authors. But Nowe Ateny was not a dry compilation of facts. Chmielowski mingled scholarship with folklore, theological speculation, travel tales, and outright fantasy. The result was an exuberant baroque miscellanypart reference work, part cabinet of curiosities. The books most famous entry is about horses: Horse: What a horse is like, anyone can see. (Polish: Kon jaki jest, kazdy widzi ) In Chmielowskis time, the horse was no stranger to human societyit clopped through every market square, grazed in every field, and waited patiently outside every tavern. To describe it in detail would have been, in the authors eyes, as needless as explaining what bread tastes like or what the sun looks like at noon. Thus came his immortal verdict: What a horse is like, anyone can see. In an age when modern encyclopedias would solemnly trace the genealogy of the Equidae, catalogue its anatomy, and debate its domestication, Chmielowski dispensed with the whole affair in a single shrug of a sentence. This entry is famous in Poland, where it has entered the language as a humorous idiom for something too obvious to warrant explanation. Goats, he informed readers, were a smierdzacy rodzaj zwierzata stinking kind of animals. Beavers were credited with biting off their own testicles to escape hunters (a medieval legend), and the encyclopedia soberly described the giant ant in the Persian city of Susa, that supposedly ate a pound of meat. The passage on dogs is equally amusing: A certain French duke had a dog trained in such a way that it set the table for guests, it opened the chest containing the tablecloth with a key taken from its master, and after spreading the cloth on the table, it laid out the plates, spoons, knives, and napkins in the appropriate order. Chmielowski did not shy away from the marvellous. His pages contain dragons, basilisks (a creature rumoured to possess the deadly power of killing with its gaze), and the biblical sea-monster Leviathan. He recorded tales of acephali headless people whose faces were on their chests citing ancient authorities. Astrology, alchemy, and magical cures appear alongside theology and geography, without clear boundaries between them. Chmielowski described dragons as huge creatures that covered entire hectares with its body and could fit a horse with a rider in its mouth. Its scales were as large as shields, it added. Dragons existed for sure, Chmielowski assured readers. I myself held, visiting Radziwills' castle, a rib of a dragon bigger than a regular sabre He then noted solemnly that Its hard to beat a dragon, but you have to try. A winged dragon, circa 1277 or after. Credit: Getty In a section devoted to the devil, sorcerers, and magic, Chmielowski ventures into the world of possession. He describes the remarkable abilities attributed to the possessed and outlines the signs by which their condition might be recognized. Magic, he explains, comes in three formsnatural, artificial, and demonic. Along the way, he parades a gallery of sorcerers before the reader, from biblical figures such as the Witch of Endor and Simon Magus to more recent practitioners. His account also examines the powers and customs of witches, offering a glimpse into their shadowy, enchanted realm. Turning to the heavens, Chmielowskis chapter on astronomy and astrology takes a striking turn. He openly challenges the Copernican system, presenting instead an older vision of the cosmos. Here he introduces the sublunary spherea geocentric domain lying beneath the Moons orbitcomposed of the four classical elements: earth, water, air, and fire. His narrative also wanders into the cartography of the underworld, mapping infernal rivers like the Acheron, Styx, and Lethe, as well as the enigmatic lakes Geluchalat and Avecigus. The discussion concludes with a survey of divination in its many forms: prophecy, physiognomy, palmistry, and oneiromancythe reading of dreams. Nowe Ateny also contains entries about real people. The one about the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates notes that Socrates never laughed in his life; his face was neither happy nor sad. When it appeared, Nowe Ateny was already out of step with the Enlightenment ideals sweeping Europe. Critics dismissed it as backward, superstitious, and riddled with errors. Yet today, its quirks are precisely what make it fascinating. Today, scholars view Nowe Ateny less as a failure and more as a cultural artefact. It captures an era when empirical observation, hearsay, and inherited myth still mingled freely in print. References: # 10 Quirky Quotes from Polands First Encyclopaedia, Culture.pl # The Eccentric First Polish Encyclopedia, VOICES magazine The competition among leading AI companies is heating up. The battlefield is now Washington, D.C. In a move to win favor and secure contracts with the US government, Anthropic has announced that it will offer its flagship chatbot, Claude, to all three branches of the government for a symbolic fee of just $1 for an entire year. This announcement comes hot on the heels of a similar, nearly identical deal from its major competitor, OpenAI. The latter offered its ChatGPT Enterprise product to federal agencies for the same token price. The trend highlights a new, aggressive push by major AI players to strengthen their ties with policymakers and regulators in the nations capital. A fierce competition for key government institutions The scramble to court the US government customers has been intensifying. In recent months, multiple federal agencies have begun to experiment with AI tools. The Department of Defense has already awarded contracts worth up to $200 million to top companies like Anthropic, Google, OpenAI, and xAI for AI development. Google even changed its AI principles months ago to open itself up to the development of AI weapons. This competition is seen by many as a strategic effort to gain widespread adoption of AI tools within the federal government. For companies, its a chance to work with a huge client. Its also a way to influence the future of how these powerful technologies are used in public service. Anthropic is also offering technical support to help agencies implement its AI, further sweetening the deal. Why Anthropic is offering its Claude AI to the US government basically free This isnt just about a single contract. By offering their models at a massive discount, these companies are positioning themselves as trusted partners for the government. The move is also a way to build a relationship with the current administration. Washington has already expressed a clear interest in using AI, but with preference for what it calls woke-free AI. This is, a term for chatbots it deems to be pushing partisan bias or ideological agendas. With OpenAI already planning to open an office in Washington, D.C., early next year, and other companies like Google reportedly working on similar arrangements for their own AI models, the race to become the governments go-to AI provider is officially on. The battle for influence is about much more than a single dollar; its about shaping the future of AI in the public sector. A slew of network carriers in the US are reacting to news of the backlash generated by Verizons recent move. Verizon reportedly irked its subscriber base by removing loyalty discounts and some perks. One of those carriers, AT&T, responded to the news by introducing an AT&T loyalty discount. In contrast to Verizons cancellation, this loyalty discount seeks to reassure and retain subscribers. It is a $20 monthly credit, totaling $240 a year, for selected Fiber broadband customers. How did we get here? We are here because Verizon decided to cancel the discounts and perks of subscribers who then began leaving the network entirely. This could potentially create a new market for the likes of T-Mobile and AT&T. Interestingly, Verizon quickly retraced its steps by reinstating those cancelled discounts and offering new ones, in an effort to stem subscriber bleeding. But who knows how many subscribers theyve lost already and can win back? This fiasco, that should never have happened in the first place, is all the more to the benefit of the consumer. The likes of AT&T and T-Mobile have quickly come to the market to state their stance. They obviously do not want their own subscribers to think anything otherwise about where their loyalty stands. It has also not been confirmed that these new offers from AT&T and T-Mobile are directly targeting disgruntled Verizon subscribers who left. We do get an inkling from a poll conducted by Android Authority when news of the discount cancellation first broke. Over 900 subscribers indicated that they will switch. So, who knows? What AT&T loyalty discount is on offer AT&T is offering randomly selected existing or new customers a $20 monthly AT&T loyalty discount. This totals $240 for the year. This is available only to Fiber broadband customers irrespective of how long they have been on their current plan. Who is eligible to benefit from the AT&T loyalty discount One thing is confirmed, that network providers in the US are preemptively working to hold on to their subscribers. And all of this is stemming from that backlash to Verizons move. It is tempting to look at this as an attempt to scoop up those disgruntled Verizons subscribers. But then, who is eligible to benefit from the AT&T loyalty discount? Well, recipients of the AT&T loyalty discount offers have been their own existing and new subscribers. They are not directly scooping up subscribers from Verizon, it appears. Also, the offers so far reported have been varied. For instance, a few Reddit users like this one via Android Authority, report receiving an email offer from AT&T. The recipient shared a screenshot of the email they received detailing what is on offer as you can see in the image below. While this is particular to this user, others on Reddit are reporting varying offers. The offers are random, not targeted. And AT&T knows who and what they are offering to anyone, old or new subscriber. If youre an AT&T Fiber broadband user, it might be worth checking your email or account notifications. While US companies are at the forefront of the AI race, China isnt too far behind. Due to the long-standing tensions between both countries, China has been forced to adapt and come up with locally-grown solutions as alternatives to the West. This includes AI models. While many Chinese AI models are gaining traction, it looks like DeepSeek is facing some issues. The company was due to launch its next-gen AI model, but that has been delayed due to DeepSeek attempting to use Chinese chips. Next-gen DeepSeek AI model delayed because of chips A report from the Financial Times has revealed that the launch of DeepSeek R2 has been delayed. R2 is supposed to be the next DeepSeek AI model, but apparently, the company tried to use local chips, leading to its delay. For a bit more context, the majority of AI development and deployment is powered by the use of NVIDIAs tech. However, the trade war between the US and China has resulted in the US government limiting and restricting the type of tech that can be exported to China. This means that instead of getting the latest NVIDIA chips, China ends up with lower-specced versions. This is because NVIDIA has to meet certain requirements to export its tech to China. However, the Chinese government has been pushing local companies to use local tech. In DeepSeeks case, the company attempted to train its R2 model using Huaweis chips. Unfortunately, this resulted in persistent technical issues during the training process. Ultimately, DeepSeek was forced to use NVIDIAs chips for training and Huawei for inference. The company was supposed to launch R2 in May, but obviously, they missed it. Chinas semiconductor problem If anything, this highlights the pickle China finds itself in regarding semiconductor technology. The US and its allies have taken various steps to limit Chinas access. This includes accessing the advanced EUV lithography machine needed to make semiconductors. Huawei has attempted to advance its semiconductor ambitions. To everyones surprise, the company has done pretty well for itself. Theyre not exactly closing the gap, but given the restrictions, its impressive. However, this issue with DeepSeek R2 shows that there is only so far Huawei can go, at least for now. Technology has made our lives easier in countless ways. However, it has also opened the door to new and creative scams. The FBI is now alerting smartphone users about a new, more dangerous variation of a scam that could put your personal and financial information at serious risk. The scam is an evolution of a tactic known as brushing. In the original version, online vendors would send you unsolicited merchandise and then use your address to post a fake, positive review of the product. While thats bad enough, this new version is far more malicious. FBI warns about QR code brushing scam targeting smartphones In this new brushing scam, criminals send you an unexpected package with merchandise you didnt order. To entice you to open it, the package often has no sender information. The real threat, however, is a QR code found inside the package. The criminals want you to scan this code, which can do one of two things: it either directs you to a fake website designed to steal your personal and financial information, or it secretly downloads malicious software onto your phone. The FBIs Pittsburgh office warns that this malware can then be used to access your bank, securities, and credit card accounts, potentially wiping them out completely. How to protect yourself The FBI has issued a clear list of recommendations to help you avoid becoming a victim of this scam: Beware of unsolicited packages containing merchandise you did not order. Beware of packages that do not include sender information. Take precautions before authorizing phone permissions and access to websites and applications. Do not scan QR codes from unknown origins. If you believe you are the target of a brushing scam, secure your online presence by changing account profiles and request a free credit report from one or all the national credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to identify possible fraudulent activity. The best defense is to stay aware and be cautious. If something arrives at your door that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Following these simple steps can help you protect yourself and your finances from this new digital threat. Earlier in April, Samsung added the Galaxy S24 series of phones to its Certified Re-Newed smartphones program. The company started offering significant savings with prices starting at $619 for the base Galaxy S24 model. Samsung has now announced that the Galaxy Z series is also joining the Certified Re-Newed program for the first time. Samsung is now selling a couple of re-newed Galaxy Z series phones The brand has announced that it is expanding its Certified Re-Newed program to include the Galaxy Z series phones for the first time. Starting today, consumers can buy the re-newed Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 units exclusively from the companys website. Unfortunately, Samsung hasnt yet added last years Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 units to the Certified re-newed program at the moment. For those unaware, the Certified Re-Newed program offers products serviced by Samsung specialists and repaired with 100% Samsung genuine parts, including a certified new battery. Furthermore, Samsung backs these products with a one-year manufacturers warranty. Samsung offering refurbished Galaxy Z Flip 5 and Fold 5 from $649 Samsung is selling the re-newed Galaxy Z Fold 5 in a single Phantom Black colorway. The phone is available in 256GB and 512GB storage models, which still cost a hefty $1,169 and $1,219, respectively. As for the Galaxy Z Flip 5, its re-newed units come in a Graphite hue. This one starts at $649 for the 256GB memory model and $699 for the 512GB storage variant. Consumers can bring down the pricing by using the trade-in offers available on the companys website. You can save up to $527 on the re-newed Galaxy Z Flip5 and up to $866 on the Z Fold5 by exchanging your old smartphone. Samsungs website is accepting phones from brands like Apple, Google, and Motorola, apart from its own devices, in the trade-in offer. Uncollected bin bags piled up in Birmingham over the Summer amidst strikes by refuse workers in the city Birmingham City Council - of bankruptcy fame - was back in the news last night. Not for sorting out its finances, but for lighting the Library of Birmingham green and white to mark the eve of 77th anniversary of Pakistans independence day on the 14th August. Of all the councils I have been reporting and writing on over my entire career, Birmingham City truly stands out. Endless reports of ineptitude, inefficiency and mismanagement make headlines, while the Council raises taxes, cuts services, yet continues to hand out golden hellos to new staff. The Council appears to be gripped by an endemic lack of accountability, as a former boss walks away with 469,000 in pay and the number of staff earning over 100,000 triples in three years at the authority, while cat-sized rats torment its residents. I asked a press officer at the Council how much the lighting up of the library had cost. The numbers werent readily available, but they provided this statement: This week the council will light the Library of Birmingham to celebrate both Pakistan and Indian independence days, followed by the marking of VJ Day, which will also include commemorations and the raising of a new union flag at the Council House. The Library is often lit to mark occasions and to raise awareness for charity events, at minimal cost, as we feel it is important for communities that we mark special events and commemorations. A degree of irritation and incredulity was expressed at my suggestion that the Councils residents and my readers might be interested in the amount being spent on celebrating the independence of foreign countries while the authorities struggled to provide basic services to local households. And this is exactly where the problem lies. Those who run and work at councils up and down the country appear to have a fundamental inability to understand why taxpayers might take an interest and ask questions about how their hard-earned cash is spent, however minimal the cost. Why should the independence of Pakistan and India be celebrated by an English council, and a bankrupt one at that? Out of 57 Commonwealth countries, 52 were former British colonies or territories. Should the council be celebrating the independence of all these nations, as well as the 4th of July? Incidentally, it is Falklands Day today. In the absurd world view of the bosses of Birmingham City Council foreign countries appear to have a greater claim on taxpayer-funded celebrations than an actual UK territory. BBC school drama Waterloo Road is to continue for at least two more series after the corporation recommissioned the show. The BBC says the Manchester-set programmes return, which began in 2006 and ran until 2015 before it was brought back to screens in 2023, will allow it to continue with its investment in creative talent in the north of England. Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, said: Im delighted that Waterloo Road will be opening its corridors once again, with two more series of the hit drama about to start filming. Jon Richardson is to join the show in its upcoming series (Ian West/PA) The show continues to entertain the audience who love to follow both the staff and pupils and, with a new series heading to BBC iPlayer and BBC One next month, they dont have long to wait. The next series will see Jon Richardson make his debut as the schools new media studies teacher next month, and the show has already seen Lindsey Coulson replace comedian Jason Manford, who played Steven Savage, as new headteacher, Dame Stella Drake. During its time on TV, Waterloo Road has explored storylines such as the cost-of-living crisis, coercive control, neurodivergence, work-place politics, family drama, grief, and young love. The show has provided a launch pad for the careers of stars such as Lucien Laviscount, Rege-Jean Page and Chelsee Healey, as well as Phoebe Dynevor, whose sister Hattie Dynevor joined the series in 2024, and Adam Thomas, who returned when the series was rebooted in 2023 and remains on the show. Cameron Roach, Waterloo Road executive producer, said: When the BBC commissioned the reboot of Waterloo Road, we had hoped it might run for a few seasons. But to be commissioned for further series, bringing the total episodes since relaunch to 70 hours, is a huge achievement and a reflection of the incredible creative teams in front of and behind the camera. As well as continuing to celebrate emerging talent, the show is fast gaining a reputation for working with the best comedy talent, as Jon Richardson joins the cast this season. As a team were incredibly proud that a very British show can be such an enduring success for the BBC and continue to bring in new generations of viewers. Filming for the two new series will begin in Greater Manchester later this year, with the first of the pair to launch next year. Bitcoin ETNs will soon begin trading on the London Stock Exchange. But what are these financial products and how will they impact the cryptocurrency market? (jeremyreds via Getty Images) After months of consultation, the UKs Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has confirmed that, starting on 8 October, retail investors will be able to buy crypto exchange-traded notes (cETNs), previously restricted to professional traders, provided they are listed on an FCA-recognised, UK-based investment exchange. But what exactly are bitcoin and ether ETNs, and how will the approval of these financial products impact the cryptocurrency market? ETNs track the performance of underlying assets such as bitcoin or ether and are traded and settled like normal shares, according to the London Stock Exchange (LSE). They benefit from market maker support with guaranteed liquidity, enabling investors to trade on-exchange during London hours. Read more: Bitcoin ETNs debut on London Stock Exchange ETNs can also be held in individual savings accounts (ISAs) or self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs) and, if held directly, are eligible for capital gains tax treatment in the UK. Impact on the cryptocurrency market In May 2024, the London Stock Exchange (LSE) began offering bitcoin and ether exchange-traded notes (ETNs) exclusively to professional investors, providing exposure to cryptocurrency price movements without the need to directly hold the underlying assets. The debut of bitcoin (BTC-USD) and ether (ETH-USD) exchange-traded notes (ETNs) on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) marks another milestone for the cryptocurrency market, providing a new avenue for investors to gain exposure to these digital assets without holding them directly. ETNs track the performance of underlying assets such as bitcoin or ether, allowing for a more traditional investment approach with the benefit of guaranteed liquidity. This structure is particularly appealing to institutional investors who might be wary of directly handling cryptocurrencies due to security and regulatory concerns. Read more: Crypto live prices The introduction of bitcoin and ether ETNs on the LSE is expected to positively impact the price action of both cryptocurrencies. As ETNs can be held in ISAs and SIPPs, they become accessible to a broader range of investors, thereby increasing demand. This heightened demand, coupled with the legitimacy brought by listing on a major exchange like the LSE, could lead to upward price pressure on bitcoin and ether. Moreover, the market maker support ensuring liquidity means that investors can enter and exit positions more easily, potentially reducing volatility and encouraging more stable growth in the prices of these digital assets. The approval and trading of ETNs on the LSE signals growing acceptance and integration of digital assets into traditional financial markets. This integration not only adds a layer of legitimacy but also attracts more institutional and retail investors, further driving market growth. Crypto ETNs, previously limited to professional investors, will soon be available to retail investors under the UK Financial Conduct Authoritys (FCA) phased approach. Having first opened the market to professionals, the FCA is now expanding access, a move that could accelerate adoption and investment in cryptocurrencies. Watch: What is a spot bitcoin ETF and why it has sparked a crypto rally? | Future Focus Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. The Chinese military said it expelled a US destroyer from disputed waters in the South China Sea, a rare tense encounter between the worlds two most powerful militaries. The American navy had deployed the destroyer USS Higgins and a smaller warship, USS Cincinnati, near the Scarborough Shoal after two Chinese ships collided while chasing away a Philippine vessel from the disputed fishing atoll. It was the first known US military operation in at least six years near the atoll off northwestern Philippines. The Southern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army organised forces to lawfully track, monitor, issue warnings, and expel the US warship, which entered the territorial waters near Huangyan Dao without authorisation from the Chinese government, a military spokesperson said. The US move seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security, severely undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea. The US navy's Seventh Fleet responded that "China's statement about this mission is false. It claimed that the US destroyer "asserted navigational rights and freedoms" near the atoll, consistent with international law". Photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a damaged Chinese ship beside a naval vessel after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine boat near Scarborough Shoal (Philippine Coast Guard via AP) The US navy has for years conducted voyages and overflights in the South China Sea to challenge Chinas requirement for entry notifications across almost the entire expanse of the waters disputed with its rival neighbours, mainly the Philippines. Such military operations have angered Beijing and its forces have had close encounters with US warships and aircraft in international waters and airspace. China asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea and some of its claims overlap with the demarcations of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Scarborough Shoal, called Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines and Huangyan Dao in China, has emerged as a regular flashpoint between the two countries. Photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a damaged Chinese ship beside a naval vessel after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine boat near Scarborough Shoal (Philippine Coast Guard) The US sailed its warships after the Philippines released a video showing a Chinese ship chasing and firing water cannons at one of its vessels before ramming into a much larger Chinese ship after making a sudden turn. China acknowledged the confrontation and accused the Philippines of forcibly intruding into its waters, but made no mention of the collision. Commodore Jay Tarriela, a Philippine coast guard spokesman, said the Chinese coast guard "performed a risky manoeuvre" which led to "substantial damage" on the Chinese warship's forward deck, rendering it unseaworthy. The US, Japan, Australia and New Zealand on Wednesday expressed alarm over the incident involving US and Chinese vessels. It was the first such incident since 2022 when a Chinese warship confronted the American destroyer USS Benfold near the Paracel Islands. In January 2021, CNN senior political commentator Scott Jennings was unwavering in his criticism of Donald Trump following the Capitol riots, saying that the president caused this insurrection with his lies and conspiracy theories and every Republican must condemn it. Now that Jennings is the networks resident MAGA defender and Trump has federally taken over Washington while deploying the National Guard into the city because of a so-called crime emergency, the longtime GOP strategist is now getting his past anti-Trump criticism of January 6 thrown back in his face. And, quite frankly, he is not thrilled about it. Hours after the president held his Monday press conference announcing that he was seizing control of the D.C. police department and mobilizing the military to patrol the citys streets to rescue the nations capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor and worse, Jennings appeared on CNN NewsNight to discuss Trumps widely criticized move. Spurred into action by images of former DOGE staffer Edward Big Balls Coristine bloodied following an attempted carjacking and Fox News reports about crime in D.C., Trump has called his move Liberation Day in D.C. while giving the green light to law enforcement to do whatever the hell they want. Critics, meanwhile, have noted that despite the presidents rhetoric about out-of-control crime, violent crime has rapidly declined in the city over the past two years and is at a 30-year low. CNN senior political commentator Scott Jennings has been repeatedly confronted with his past comments about January 6, which saw him call for "every Republican to condemn" Donald Trump. (CNN) During the Monday night CNN panel discussion, Jennings was unsurprisingly applauding the presidents decision as being tough on crime while showing support for law enforcement, prompting fellow panelist Tara Setmayer to take issue with the idea that Trump backs the blue by referencing Jennings prior condemnation of January 6. You look at what Donald Trump did and what MAGA has done to the police officers who defended our Capitol on January 6th, Setmayer, a former GOP strategist and Never-Trump conservative, declared. You want to talk about spitting in the face? Donald Trump spit in the face of every single one of those officers who took that oath to protect and serve on January 6th when he pardoned those insurrectionist bastards and who wanted to take down our Capitol and stop the free and fair, peaceful transfer of power. One of the presidents first acts after his second inauguration was to issue a blanket pardon to roughly 1,600 rioters who were charged with crimes during the attack on the Capitol, including many who were jailed for violently attacking police officers. And so how dare people sit here and say that he backs the blue? He abdicated that, because you know what? He did not protect or defend the Constitution and he violated his oath of office, she continued. You know, who said that? You did after January 6th. And thats exactly what he continues to do right now with the way he is throwing around our military, our police, talking about moving us to other states. This is something people should be very concerned about. Indeed, shortly after a MAGA mob stormed the Capitol on January 6 in an effort to stop the certification of Joe Bidens electoral victory, Jennings wrote a scathing opinion piece for CNN chastising the president and any Republican who didnt rebuke Trumps actions. Im ashamed and embarrassed for our country, and for any Republican who fails to condemn this shameful behavior, Jennings stated at the time. In an on-air appearance the night of the riot, Jennings also suggested that Trump had become such a threat to the country that he may need to abdicate his office immediately. Former GOP communications director Tara Setmayer took Jennings to task for calling out Donald Trump on January 6 but cheering on his current actions in Washington. (CNN) On Monday night, however, Jennings was seemingly stunned into silence and merely held his hand to his chin after Setmayer aired her receipts, prompting anchor Anny Phillip to move on to another guest. Several minutes later, though, Phillip circled back to the right-wing pundit to see if he wanted to finally jump back in. I want to give Scott a moment because he has not said a single thing, the CNN host said. Saying that what happened to the cops that day was a disgrace, Jennings then pivoted to defending Trumps federal takeover of Washington and deployment of the National Guard, adding that the only city that Trump really has control of is Washington. If he controls D.C., why didnt he do it on January 6th? Setmayer shot back. Why didnt he do it on January 6th when he sat there and let them take over the Capitol? He had the opportunity, but he didnt. Two days later, another longtime political strategist would once again confront Jennings on his harsh criticism of the presidents behavior on January 6 as it related to Trump now invoking the D.C. Home Rule Act. This time around, however, Jennings didnt sit in silence and instead lashed out with personal attacks. I think in Washington, D.C., youre gonna have to have substantial reductions in violence, substantial reductions in murder, substantial reductions in carjackings, and people are generally gonna feel like they can walk around and not be under threat all the time, he said, boasting about the number of arrests that have occurred since the takeover. Julie Roginsky, a Democratic operative and former Fox News pundit, snarked that she was old enough to remember when Jennings was appalled as the rest of us were on January 6th, leading the former Mitch McConnell adviser to cut her off. Because January 6th happened, should we not enforce the law today? Jennings sneered, resulting in a heated back-and-forth in which the GOP commentator accused Roginsky of engaging in a silly argument. Jennings called out Trump after January 6 and is now being reminded about his comments as he defends Trump over the DC takeover (Getty Images) At one point, Phillip jumped in to ask Jennings to allow Roginsky to finish her point, only for the conservative pundit to grouse that hes not gonna allow it if Roginsky kept taking potshots at him. Scott, I know youre thirsty for that seat, but let me finish, Roginsky snapped back, referencing reports that Jennings is considering a Senate run in Kentucky to replace the retiring McConnell. What are you thirsty for? Some kind of relevance out here? I mean, I dont even know what you do for a living, he fumed in response. An undeterred Roginsky, though, continued on with her point following the broadside from Jennings. Can I just finish what I was about to say, which is that on January 6th, [Trump] could have deployed the National Guard. He chose not to. Now today, because somebody named Big Balls got beat up, allegedly, he wants to deploy the National Guard to a place that has had a 30-year low in violence. And we all know that hes doing this because its a power grab. Noting that Trump could have done this when this district was actually in danger on January 6th but didnt, Roginsky said the president didnt give a d*mn about backing the blue then before invoking Jennings past comments. And you agreed, back on January 6, he didnt give a d*mn about those police officers and about the safety of people in Washington, D.C., she concluded. Today, because he wants a power grab, hes doing this despite the fact that every statistic shows that Washington, D. C. has not been safer in the last 30 years. Meanwhile, other progressives have called for CNN panelists to continue to challenge Jennings with his own words during discussions about the presidents current actions in Washington. Not sure why every liberal pundit on CNN, confronted by Jennings, doesnt just read out every night his own words from Jan 6th back to him, Zeteo founder Mehdi Hasan, who recently got into a heated exchange with a NewsNation anchor after invoking January 6, tweeted. Jennings called it an insurrection by domestic terrorists caused by Donald Trump. Remind him. Every. Single. Night. Liam Gallagher salutes the crowd before performing live onstage with Oasis on the second night of concerts at Knebworth, August 1996. (Getty) (Jeff Gilbert) No matter which way you look at it, the Oasis reunion tour of 2025 has been an unqualified success. For Noel and Liam Gallagher, the rest of the band, and all their nostalgic fans, the long-awaited tour has largely been a scandal-free zone. There have been no backstage fights (that we know of), zero onstage bickering, and by all accounts, the band are absolutely rocking. Maybe its maturity finally creeping in, or just a new businesslike approach to the job, but Oasis actually seem to have got their act together, 16 years after bitter infighting tore them apart. Their comeback has been one of the most popular tours in recent memory, and is said to be worth 1bn to the British economy, with Noel and Liam estimated to be earning 50m each from the run of gigs. So its no surprise that rumours of a 2026 tour and a return to the scene of their crowning glory - Knebworth - have begun to circulate online. 2026 Oasis tour rumours Liam Gallagher, left, and Noel Gallagher from Oasis on stage in Cardiff. (Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP) (Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP) In August 2025, The Sun reported that Oasis had been offered the chance to extend their current 41-date 2025 tour with a fresh run of dates in 2026. The rumoured run of new gigs includes four nights at Knebworth House, to coincide with the 30th anniversary of their historic 1996 concerts, a residency at Manchester Citys Etihad Stadium, and a string of European and British dates. The Suns insider offered a definitely maybe response to the rumours, claiming they could see all of this happening but it depends on whether Noel and Liam want to carry on with touring, or whether they just want to Slide Away and enjoy their windfall in peace. An unverified image of the proposed 2026 tour circulated on social media showed a series of European gigs, starting with two in Milan, then a string of dates starting on June 2026 across Spain, Germany, Hungary, Sweden, the Netherlands, and France. The leak suggests the tour then returns to the UK for dates in Newcastle, Glasgow, the Etihad residency, followed by four dates at Knebworth on 11, 12, 14, and 15 August. The Sun also reports that the band have been offered festival dates for next year, but that those offers have so far been stonewalled. The offer to play Knebworth in 2026 has some truth behind it. In 2024, Knebworth House publicly invited the band to return to the scene of their greatest triumph to mark the 30th anniversary. Henry Lytton-Cobbold, who owns Knebworth House, joked: "Wembley is a reasonable warm-up venue for Knebworth. Then get ready for a nice, huge 30th shindig in 2026. "That's what the people want, and they seem pretty good at doing what the people want. It would be a great way to have the best party of all parties." Liam Gallagher returned to Knebworth in 2022 for two massive gigs as a solo artist. Mr Lytton-Cobbold added: "He knows where we are, he's always been keen, he's up for it. They just have to stay mates for 12 months." The band never responded to the public invite. What have Oasis said about the rumours? Oasis live 2025 (Oasis) Noel and Liam Gallagher have yet to respond to the rumours. But Yahoo contacted representatives for Oasis, and they offered a no comment. Not long after announcing their comeback, the band denied rumours that they would be playing Glastonbury in 2025 as part of the tour. "Despite media speculation, Oasis will not be playing Glastonbury 2025 or any other festivals next year," they said in a statement. "The only way to see the band perform will be on their Oasis Live '25 World Tour." Talking about the possibility of a new album, Oasis co-manager Alec McKinlay told Music Week in May 2025, "This is very much the last time around, as Noels made clear in the press. Its a chance for fans who havent seen the band to see them, or at least for some of them to. But no, theres no plan for any new music. This suggests that a 2026 tour could be possible, but only if the band want to carry on. They have no plans for more gigs beyond the current 41-date tour, though. Oasis Live '25 will next head to Ireland, then North America and Mexico, before a return to Wembley in September, followed by a string of dates in South Korea, Japan, Australia and South America, wrapping up in Brazil in November. What has Knebworth House said about the rumours? An Oasis fan enjoys the concert at Knebworth House in Hertfordshire in 1996. (Stefan Rousseau/PA Images via Getty Images) (Stefan Rousseau - PA Images via Getty Images) If Oasis were set to return to Knebworth House for four dates in 2026, one person who would know is Henry Lytton Cobbold, whose family have lived in the stately home since 1490. However, talking to Yahoo, the 3rd Baron Cobbold confirmed it was not currently on their calendar of events for next year. Clearly its what the people want, clearly it should happenHenry Lytton Cobbold, owner of Knebworth House "Clearly its what the people want, clearly it should happen - but lets get it in the diary, as our Summer 2026 weekends are swiftly filling up with jousting tournaments and Knebby the Dinosaur appearances," - Henry Lytton Cobbold told Yahoo. Whats so special about Knebworth? Aerial shot of the 1996 Oasis show. (Mick Hutson/Redferns) (Mick Hutson via Getty Images) 1996 marks a high-water mark for Oasis that has never been surpassed. The Manchester band were riding a huge wave of popularity sparked by the double-header of their two bestselling albums, Definitely Maybe in 1994 and (Whats the Story) Morning Glory in 1995, and the chart battle with Blur that sparked the publics imagination that same year. Blur won the battle, topping the charts with Country House, but Oasis won the war, leading to their historic dates at Knebworth House in 1996. The country estate had played host to a number of iconic acts over the years, including Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd and Queen, who played their last ever gig with Freddie Mercury there, and would prove to be a historic venue for the band. 2.5 million people applied for the 250,000 tickets available for the Hertfordshire gigs (more than 2% of the British population), which sold out in 24 hours, making it the largest demand for a show in British music history, and the gigs were a resounding success for the band. Liam and Noel Gallagher horsing around at Knebworth House ahead of their historic gigs. (Stefan Rousseau/PA Images via Getty Images) (Stefan Rousseau - PA Images via Getty Images) Mat Whitecrosss 2016 Oasis documentary Oasis: Supersonic ends with their two back-to-back Knebworth gigs, leaving a full 13 years of drama untold, before the band officially split in 2009. Thats not to say that nothing worthwhile happened to the band after Knebworth, but the two August gigs represented the high tide of Oasismania. It ended up being downhill from there with their underwhelming third album, Be Here Now, being released to much hype but mixed reviews in 1997. A series of lineup changes followed, as well as four more forgettable albums, before the band split acrimoniously in 2009. The dividing line of Oasis pre- and post-Knebworth is reflected in the setlist of their 2025 reunion tour. Of the 23 songs on their setlist, only three songs were recorded post-Kenbworth: DYou Know What I Mean?, Stand by Me and Little by Little. While a return to the scene of their crowing glory would be a tantalising prospect for nostalgic fans, in truth, it would only serve as a footnote in the true history of Britpops most enduring band. Blondie backstage at the Spectrum Stadium in Philadelphia, where they were booked as the support act for Alice Cooper, 2 July 1978 (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) Photographer Martyn Goddard has recalled the moment that Blondie star Debbie Harry encountered Alice Coopers pet snake, Julius Squeezer. At the time, he was accompanying the band on their return to New York in 1978, widely regarded as their breakthrough year as they released their third studio album, Parallel Lines. During the trip, Blondie were invited to open for Cooper in Philadelphia. So we all got on this tour bus and went down there and had really quite a fun day, Goddard told The Independent. Once the band were in the green room, Coopers snake minder came in with his pet boa constrictor, who was often seen draped around the rockers neck during gigs. Its not often you find a snake in the green room before you go onstage, Goddard said. It didn't seem to phase Debbie, though. She really quite enjoyed being wrapped up by the snake. He managed to capture the moment as one of a number of candid shots that showed the band relaxing outside the studio or backstage. Blondie backstage at the Spectrum Stadium in Philadelphia, where they were booked as the support act for Alice Cooper, 2 July 1978 (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) The image is included in a new exhibition, Blondie in Camera 1978, which opens at the Barbican Music Library in London from 14 August until 5 January 2026. Goddard, known for capturing some of the biggest names on the New Wave scene of the Seventies and Eighties from The Jam to Blondie and The Cure selected 50 prints shot during four major assignments in New York of the band in concert, backstage, in the studio and during photo sessions. Debbie Harry, Chris Stein and Nigel Harrison walking around New York, 1978 (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) A number of the images have also been published in a new book, Blondie in Camera 1978, which features contributions from Harry and the bands longtime publicist, Alan Edwards. That was the year that Blondie basically transformed from New York punk to stadium rockers, Goddard said. I just happened to be there, and during lockdown I realised I had all [these pictures] that people wouldnt necessarily have seen. Members of Blondie relaxing at the Gramercy Park Hotel, New York, 1979 (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) His first assignment involving the band was for The Telegraphs Sunday magazine. Goddard, then 27, had to pay his own airfare but ended up staying in the same hotel as Harry and her bandmate Chris Stein, with whom she was in a relationship at the time. Debbie Harry of Blondie on a tour bus travelling from New York to Philadelphia, where the band were booked to support Alice Cooper (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) It was the famous Gramercy Park Hotel, which was an amazing, charming place, sort of art deco, and it was one of the reasons that the shoot with Debbie went so well, because it was slightly shabby but it had these wonderful places like the old cocktail bar, the roof terrace a lot of character, he remembered. I went there and basically joined Blondie for a week. And when I'd done all these formal pictures, I just hung around and took [the more candid shots] at the Palladium and at all these parties. He recalled one where they ended up hanging out with Andy Warhol at Studio 54: It was a fantastic experience. Blondie performing at New York's Palladium Theatre, 1978 (Courtesy of Martyn Goddard) He suggested the band had maintained their hold on pop culture all these years in part thanks to Harrys commitment: Shes tangled herself so brilliantly over that entire time, and has been totally committed to her singing and the band. Goddard also praised her for being a natural in front of the lens: You pressed the button and she just transformed into a model, you didnt really need to direct her, he said. She came up with the most wonderful poses. The Blondie in Camera 1978 exhibition is open at the Barbican Music Library now. Martyn Goddards book, Blondie in Camera 1978 is out now from ACC Art Books. Djed Spence has signed a new long-term contract at Tottenham, the PA news agency understands. Versatile full-back Spence only signed fresh terms last October until 2028, but has been rewarded for a fine breakthrough campaign at Spurs. Spence made 35 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign, after eventually being handed his full debut in December two-and-a-half-years after he first joined the club. After Spence was deemed a club signing by former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte in 2022, the former Nottingham Forest defender had mixed loans at Rennes, Leeds and Genoa. Spence might have left Spurs last summer, but instead forced his way into the plans of then-boss Ange Postecoglou and played his part in their Europa League triumph. Postecoglous replacement Thomas Frank has quickly placed his trust in Spence and started him in Wednesdays Super Cup loss to Paris St Germain. The latest stage of the 25-year-olds resurgence is to earn improved terms to ensure his long-term future remains at Tottenham. Speaking in Udine before his new contract had been finalised, Spence was quizzed on the prospect of Spurs being active during the final fortnight of the summer transfer window. Injuries to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have left Tottenham short on attacking midfield options, which is why the club has this week opened talks with Manchester City and Crystal Palace respectively over the potential signings of Savinho and Eberechi Eze, PA understands. Our 2025/26 Premier League campaign kicks off on Saturday. @Castrol pic.twitter.com/ZhYxn08yhJ Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 14, 2025 Im not sure who has been linked or who is going to come in, but I think yeah whoever comes in will definitely add strength to the squad and will be a good thing for us, Spence admitted. Yeah, (Champions League), its a great competition, its the big stage and everyone wants to show what they can do on the biggest stage, so yeah, looking forward to it. Before Spurs return to Europes elite competition next month, morale must be lifted after their midweek shoot-out loss. Spence urged Tottenham to bounce back in their Premier League opener with Burnley on Saturday, which will be Franks first fixture at home. He added: I think weve got to keep our heads up first and foremost. Then starting Saturday, we play at home, get a win and take it from there. I think the main thing (asked by Frank) is be solid at the back and our target is to keep as many clean sheets as possible. You do that and you win trophies, you win titles. Solomon Pena has been sentenced to 80 years in federal prison (ASSOCIATED PRESS) A failed Republican candidate has been sent to federal prison for 80 years for a series of drive-by shootings at the homes of New Mexico lawmakers. Solomon Pena was convicted earlier this year of conspiracy, weapons and other charges in the shootings, which took place December 2022 and January 2023 at the homes of four Democratic officials, including the current state House speaker. Prosecutors, who had sought a 90-year sentence, said Pena had shown no remorse for the incidents in Albuquerque. They said he 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. Penas lawyers had sought a five-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. Solomon Pena lost the 2022 election by nearly 50 percentage points 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. The shootings targeted the homes of several 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. However, in one case bullets passed through the bedroom of a state senators 10-year-old daughter. Two other men who had earlier acknowledged helping Pena with the attacks previously pleaded guilty to federal charges. Both received years-long prison sentences. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is turning a shuttered state prison into another state-run immigration detention center that can hold up to 1,300 people. While a federal judge considers whether to shut down a detention facility that Donald Trumps administration and Florida officials are calling Alligator Alcatraz in the Everglades, DeSantis announced Thursday the state is moving forward with Deportation Depot. This will be operational soon, it is not going to take forever, but we are also not rushing to do this right this day, DeSantis said Thursday. The prison located within a rural stretch of the state between Tallahassee and Jacksonville will operate inside Baker Correctional Institution, joining a new wave of state-run detention centers working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to boost the presidents mass deportation agenda. The reason for this is not to just house people indefinitely. We want to process, stage and then return illegal aliens to their home country. That is the name of the game, DeSantis said. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis plans to open yet another state-run immigration detention center as judges hear lawsuits over whether to shut down Alligator Alcatraz (AP) The prison first opened in 1978 with a capacity for 1,165 inmates in a mix of security levels, including for inmates who were considered high security risks. It closed in 2021 follow staffing shortages at the states correctional facilities. The governors announcement follows a federal court order to stop any new construction at Alligator Alcatraz following a lawsuit from environmental groups warning that the facility endangers surrounding wetlands and wildlife. That 3,000-bed detention center opened in south Florida last month within the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Airport, roughly 43 miles from Miami in the middle of the Everglades. A federal lawsuit accuses the facility of blocking detainees from legal counsel and forcing people into overcrowded, unsanitary, and harsh conditions with inadequate food, flood-prone cells, and excessive use of force from guards that sent at least one man to a hospital. Baker Correctional Institution is located within a rural stretch of north Florida roughly 40 miles from Jacksonville (AP) Its also unclear who is actually running the facility and who wants to take responsibility for it. Government lawyers could not immediately answer in court whether the federal government or Florida is responsible. In court filings, immigration officials claimed that the facility is operating through the federal 287(g) program, which allows local and state law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration law. ICE has inked nearly 800 such agreements covering 40 states. That makeshift facility is expected to cost roughly $450 million within its first year, at roughly $245 per inmate bed per night, according to Homeland Security. ICE spent roughly $187 per adult detainee per day in 2023. Floridas Alligator Alcatraz is facing federal lawsuits accusing the detention center of endangering wetlands and wildlife and denying legal counsel to detainees facing overcrowded, unsanitary and harsh conditions (REUTERS) The incoming wave of state-run detention centers is expected to tap into $45 billion in new funding for ICE as part of Trumps big, beautiful bill. That bill also allocates $30 billion for an aggressive recruitment campaign to hire another 10,000 ICE agents. Altogether, the bill earmarks more than $170 billion for immigration enforcement a boon to for-profit contractors and cash-strapped states looking to tap into billions of taxpayer dollars. Earlier this month, Indiana officials and Homeland Security announced plans to expand Miami Correctional Center, a state prison 70 miles north of Indianapolis. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said that facility will have capacity to detain roughly 1,000 immigrants. Officials are calling that detention center the Speedway Slammer. The Trump administration is also reportedly in talks with Louisiana officials to detain immigrants inside the notorious Angola prison, the largest maximum security prison in the country, built on a former plantation owned by a slaveholder. The prison which holds roughly 4,300 people, most of which were convicted of violent crimes could detain 450 immigrants as early as next month, according to The Wall Street Journal. Ruth Szymankiewicz had been judged to need constant observation because she was a suicide risk. Photograph: PA A vulnerable 14-year-old girl was unlawfully killed when an agency support worker failed to keep her under observation at a secure psychiatric unit, an inquest jury has concluded. The worker, who used a false identity, left Ruth Szymankiewicz alone even though she had complex mental health issues and was judged to need constant watching because she was a suicide risk. Ruth was able to slip back to her room and harmed herself at the privately run Huntercombe hospital near Maidenhead on 12 February 2022. She died two days later. During the inquest it emerged that the worker, who went under the stolen identity Ebo Acheampong, had never worked at any hospital before the day he was put in charge of observing Ruth and did not receive an induction before his shift. The jury at Beaconsfield raised concerns about training of agency staff at Huntercombe and said contributing factors to Ruths death included her not being prevented from accessing the material she used to harm herself. She did not receive therapy that may have helped while she was being detained under the Mental Health Act, family visits were limited though they may have helped her wellbeing and she was able to access harmful material on her phone, the jury heard. Speaking after the jury returned its findings, Ruths parents, Kate and Mark Szymankiewicz, who are respectively a GP and a consultant surgeon from Wiltshire, said: There is an empty space at our table, a silent bedroom in our home, a gaping hole in our family that will never be filled. Ruth was an incredible, bright, friendly, loving and adventurous girl with a whole life of joy ahead of her. She, like many other teenagers, developed an eating disorder. When, at our most vulnerable as a family, we reached out for help, we ultimately found ourselves trapped in a system that was meant to care for her, to help her, to keep her safe, but instead locked her away and harmed her. As a child who thrived on her connection with nature, she was essentially caged. Over the last two weeks, we have heard about the numerous systemic failures at Huntercombe hospital, the family said. It would be easy to be distracted by the failings of one individual. However shocking that conduct might have been, it is paramount that the other wider and more important issues are acknowledged and addressed. Health experts told the Guardian that many of the issues around the use of agency staff and the shortage of psychiatric intensive care units for children and young people was still a huge problem. Andrew Molodynski, the British Medical Associations mental health lead, said there was a gap in accountability over the training and vetting of agency staff. He said it was often mental health inpatient units, with the most high-risk individuals, that relied on agency staff the most, especially when they had patients like Ruth needing one-to-one supervision. He said this was a toxic catch-22 You end up with very few people who know the ward and know the patients. Minesh Patel, an associate director of policy and campaigns at the mental health charity Mind, said Ruths case was a clearcut example of the many systemic issues in our mental health hospitals. He said: An overreliance on agency staff can compromise patient safety, quality of care, and in the worst cases lead to serious harm or loss of life. During the inquest, Dr Gillian Combe, the clinical director for the provider group that commissioned Ruths placement, said the understaffing seen at Huntercombe still existed. She expressed frustration at rules in England that make it hard for new NHS units to be built, meaning provider groups have to rely on sending patients to private units. Combe said this situation arose after Andrew Lansleys changes to the NHS described by some as creeping privatisation when he was the health secretary from 2010 to 2012. She said there were no psychiatric intensive care units for children and young people in the whole of south-west England. Jodie Anderson, a senior caseworker at the charity Inquest, said: The jurys findings are a stark indictment of a mental health system that sent a vulnerable child far from home to a private unit with dangerously inadequate care. Dr Amit Chatterjee, the chief medical officer at Active Care Group, which owned and ran Huntercombe, told the inquest that the company had worked hard to improve recruitment and its induction process. Huntercombe has closed but Chatterjee said the company had increased therapeutic care at its current site for young people, Ivetsey Bank hospital in Staffordshire. The inquest heard that after learning that Ruth had died, the worker known as Acheampong fled from the UK to Ghana. Thames Valley police said they knew his real identity but did not have enough evidence to try to get him back. The use of agency staff in mental health settings has been cited as a big problem in numerous reviews and inquest conclusions. In the case of Lily Lucas, a 28-year-old woman who died in 2022 from excessive fluid intake brought on by schizophrenia, an NHS review found that some agency nurses on her privately run ward did not know how to use 999. A Care Quality Commission report on the Mental Health Act said patients had described agency staff as not friendly and less caring towards patients, and detrimental to morale among permanent staff. Hazmat teams have been deployed to a federal government building in New York City after envelopes containing a mysterious white powder were discovered, authorities said. Just before 4 p.m. on Thursday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel discovered envelopes containing an unknown white powder on the 9th floor of 26 Federal Plaza, the FBI said at a press conference Thursday. Five envelopes were found in the mail room of Enforcement and Removal Operations a component of ICE. The government building in downtown Manhattan is home to an immigration court and detention center. The building was evacuated and there are no injuries or illnesses, officials said. No threat remains to any employees or the public at this time, Christopher Raia, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs New York Field Office, said at a Thursday evening press conference. An ICE field office in downtown Manhattan was evacuated after white powder was found, authorities said (NYC Deputy Mayor for Public Safety) Two people were believed to have been exposed to the powder, he said. Its not immediately clear where the substance came from. Officials are awaiting the test results to determine the contents of the envelopes, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry said at the news conference. The FBI is investigating the incident. The letters will be sent to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia for additional testing, Raia said. The FBI official warned that sending threatening letters of this nature, whether real or a hoax, is a crime. At the scene, the decontamination process worked perfectly, FDNY Commissioner Robert Tucker said at the press conference. Hazmat teams have been deployed and the investigation is ongoing, Mayor Eric Adams said (NYC Deputy Mayor for Public Safety) Earlier in the day, Mayor Eric Adams first publicly announced the discovery in a post on X: New Yorkers, I have been preliminarily briefed on the matter unfolding at 26 Federal Plaza where envelopes containing white powder were discovered. I want to also reassure you that there are no known injuries at this time. While we await test results from our federal partners, @FDNY Hazmat teams are on the ground to ensure the safety of everyone inside and outside of the building. The Independent has reached out to ICE for comment on the matter. The area outside the federal building has been at the heart of protests amid President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown. The 10th floor houses a makeshift detention center. The area outside the federal building has been at the heart of protests amid President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown (Getty Images) This week, a federal judge in New York ordered the Trump administration to improve conditions inside the makeshift facility, 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. Justice Department lawyers admitted that immigrants held there dont have access to medication and arent allowed to meet with lawyers in person. In the wake of the judges order, Homeland Security assistant secretary Tricia McLaughlin told The Independent in a statement: 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. DHS plans to appeal the order. Liverpool head coach Arne Slot believes his team are too honest for their own good but he does not want them to change in their defence of their Premier League title. The Dutchman said he often blamed them for not taking a genuine foul when they had the option but also felt their positive approach was in part responsible for their success last season. He has key midfielder Ryan Gravenberch missing through suspension for Fridays season-opener at home to Bournemouth, while Slot was misguided in his interpretation of why his reasoning was based on a general viewpoint. Slot thought the Netherlands international had been dismissed for a second bookable offence in the final match of last season against Crystal Palace, when in fact he received a straight red for bringing down Daichi Kamada as he prepared to race through on goal. If there is one team in the league that is, in my opinion, the most honest when we play I sometimes blame them that they never try to make from a foul a little bit more and never dives and never time delays and all these kind of things, then it is us, said Slot. In the (Community Shield) game against Palace they hold Florian (Wirtz) in midfield and he didnt fall over and the referee says If you dont fall, I dont give a free-kick, which is a little bit weird. Than a fraction later they fell down in a moment which wasnt even a foul and the referee thought Oh, he fell down so it probably is a foul. We had much more ball possession than Palace but we made 13 fouls and they made five. That tells you also about who we are. Slot said despite the increased challenge that defending their title would pose and the tactics opponents may employ he did not want his team to become more streetwise. Maybe for me to use the right words in English, you can never be too honest. But I saw this week Fenerbahce-Feyenoord and saw a lot of moments where players were really smart, he added. These kind of things, should we use them? Im not so sure. For me the best game last season I was part of was Paris St Germain against us, especially our home game. The new season starts here. 2025/26 pic.twitter.com/VmoxPb8dbu Premier League (@premierleague) June 18, 2025 I liked that a little bit more than the away game. It was so high intensity because both teams were just here to play and not to try to pretend a foul was more or time delaying. I am most proud of the fact of who we are and we won the league last season with the team we were so let us stay who we are. We are a very fair team, that is clear also maybe the reason we won the league so why change something which went well. Off the field Liverpool have agreed a 26million plus add-ons deal to sign Parma defender Giovanni Leoni to bolster their options in central defence, where they had only two specialists in the position for pre-season after an injury to Joe Gomez from which he had only returned this week. The 18-year-old is expected to undergo a medical and Slot said: The clubs have agreed a deal but he hasnt signed for us yet. The moment when he signs for us I can go into more detail. Slot, however, refused to speculate on their pursuit of Crystal Palaces Marc Guehi as talks continue. He is not our player and unfortunately he was the captain of the team we lost against last Sunday, he added. If you want any talks on him you should go to Palace and (Oliver) Glasner and ask his opinion about it. A major London hospital was forced to evacuate dozens of people with nine left unwell due to a chlorine gas leak. Firefighters rushed to Guys Hospital, Southwark, shortly before 9am on Thursday after chlorine was produced by the accidental mixing of chemicals in a boiler room. Around 150 people were evacuated from the basement and ground floor of the hospital. Even small amounts of chlorine can cause irritation, and high levels can cause severe lung damage, such as toxic pneumonitis or pulmonary edema, or even death in extreme cases. A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said nine people were attended to at the scene, with four of those treated in hospital. People were evacuated from the ground floor and basement of Guys Hospital in London (X/@saagaloo24) Ronald Gilchrist, 50, told the Daily Express he was visiting his girlfriend in hospital when alarms started going off inside the building. "They didnt explain what was going on. Because I knew someone that worked at the hospital thats how I found out. It wasn't chaos, everyone was just told to leave outside, he said. Images show crowds of people outside the building, with an elderly woman with a walking stick seen being escorted by a firefighter. Hospital workers could be seen standing around talking next to an ambulance as firefighters headed inside to tackle the issue. Witness Philippa Garrott also told the publication: I saw several fire engines and ambulances parked outside the Shard exit of London Bridge Station this morning, at about 9.45am. All of Guy's Hospital staff appeared to have been evacuated out onto St Thomas Street, and there were various police/fire cordons in place. Someone appeared to be covered with wet towels and blankets. Guy's Hospital is a major elective centre with 400 beds, specialising in cancer, kidney, urology and dental care, as well as ear, nose and throat and orthopaedics. Images show crowds of people outside the building following a chemical leak (X/@mindurown41) A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: The incident is believed to have been caused by the mixing of chemicals inside a plant room which produced a chlorine gas. One person was injured as a result of a chemical reaction. Several people, who came to the aid of the person, have been treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas. Firefighters have carried out a sweep of the area to check for no elevated readings of chlorine gas. The building has also been ventilated. Crews also supported with the precautionary evacuation of the basement and ground floors of the building. Two fire engines, two fire rescue units, a command unit and specialist hazardous materials officers attended the scene. A spokesperson for Guy's and St Thomas's said the incident happened in a non-patient area. "One staff member was injured and several people, who came to the aid of the person, were treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas, they added. "The site has now reopened and people should attend their appointments unless they are contacted by us directly." A man accused of throwing a sandwich at a US Customs and Border Protection agent in Washington DC has been charged with assaulting a federal officer a felony that could result in up to a year in jail and significant fines. Captured in a now viral video, the man authorities have identified as Sean Charles Dunn, 37, could be seen yelling Fascists! and Shame! at a group of officers as they patrolled the district on Sunday night. Daina Henry, a local transit police detective detailed the altercation in a criminal complaint, alleging that Dunn pointed his finger in the officers face and yelled, Fuck you! You fucking fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city, minutes before winding his arm back and forcefully throwing a sub-style sandwich. The incident erupted as tensions simmered over Donald Trumps looming takeover of DC and his administrations use of force to brutally achieve his anti-migrant agenda. On Tuesday, the president deployed the first round of federal agents, including officers from the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Department of Homeland Security, along with dozens of national guard troops, in an operation he said is only just beginning. Invoking a never-before-used clause that allows a temporary federal takeover of the districts police department, Trump called on Congress to grant him the power for a long-term occupation, but told reporters there were other ways to extend his control. If its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress, he said, speaking on Wednesday during a visit to the Kennedy Center. Trump has threatened to send federal officers and military personnel into other US cities as well. Dunns case, filed in the US district court in Washington, was taken up by the US attorneys office headed by former Fox News host and Trump appointee Jeanine Pirro, who threatened to prosecute him fully. She has been outspoken in her support for the presidents plan to crackdown on crime. President Trump has vowed to make DC safe and beautiful again, she said in a video posted to social media, championing the federal deployment. The presidents message to the criminals was: if you spit, we hit, she said. This guy thought it was funny, she continued, referencing the defendants alleged actions. Well, he doesnt think its funny today, because we charged him with a felony, assault on a police officer. She added that she and her team were going to back the police to the hilt. Dunn has not publicly commented about the charges or the incident and court records do not yet list an attorney for him or any scheduled court hearings. In the video, the officer does not appear to be injured from the sandwich, which the video-taker zoomed in on to show it was still fully wrapped in a Subway wrapper, where it landed in the street. The agent and others with him could be seen chasing the man after he threw the sandwich. Henry, in the criminal complaint, alleges Dunn was apprehended soon after and later said: I did it. I threw a sandwich. Chris Stein contributed reporting M&Ms and Skittles will have options with no synthetic dyes in 2026 M&Ms, Skittles, and some of the worlds most popular colorful candies will be made without artificial colors in the United States next year. Candy manufacturer, Mars Wrigley North America, quietly announced the move last month, saying the products would be made available online across the country. The decision comes nearly a decade after the company first said it would remove all artificial colors from its food products before reversing course following feedback from consumers. Brands that will soon have options made without FD&C colors: M&Ms Chocolate, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint and Starburst Original fruit chews, Mars Wrigley said. The colors are called FD&C colors because they also may be used in drugs and cosmetics. The changes in colorings will effect four categories of its popular treats, including gum, fruity confections, and chocolate. Our experts are exploring alternatives that satisfy scientific safety criteria, technical requirements and consumer preferences, the company wrote. M&M chocolate candies are seen in production. Mars Wrigley North America that it is transitioning away from artificial colors in the U.S. (AFP/Getty) Mars Wrigley is slated to announce further timelines and commitments to complying with the Trump administrations push to Make America Healthy Again when it has identified fully effective, scalable solutions across the entire portfolio. The Independent has contacted Mars Wrigley for comment. Earlier this year, Mars Wrigley removed titanium dioxide from Skittles, Fox News reported, which is a color additive used to make food look whiter. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., has targeted artificial dyes in products sold in the U.S., announcing measures to phase out eight dyes by the end of next year. Those dyes include Starbursts Red No. 40, the Yellow No. 5 found in Doritos, and McCormick Culinary food dyes Blue No. 2. Red 3, which is found in the candy Pez, was banned from the nations food supply in January, after studies found that the dye caused cancer in lab rats. For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent, Kennedy said in April. These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our childrens health and development. People visit the M&Ms store in New York City. The candys maker Mars Wrigley is one of multiple companies thats announced plans to respond to the Trump administrations push to Make America Healthy Again (Getty Images) The dyes have been tied to neurological problems in some children, although the Food and Drug Administration says most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing color additives. Some states have moved to enact laws that banned the colors and other additives from school meals, including California and West Virginia. Other companies revealed plans to remove artificial dyes following the HHS announcement. In June, Kraft Heinz and General Mills said artificial dyes would be removed from some products within the next two years. The Hershey Company, McCormick & Co., J.M. Smucker, and Nestle USA have made their own commitments. One in five packaged food and drink products in the U.S. contain synthetic dyes, researchers said in June. In place of the artificial dyes, the Food and Drug Administration said in May that it had approved three new color additives from natural sources. FDA staff have been moving quickly to expedite the publication of these decisions, underscoring our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based dyes in the food supply and provide new colors from natural sources, FDA Commissioner Martin Makary said. This article's headline was amended after publication to make it clear that not all Mars products will be dye free and that consumers will have a choice Hunter Biden has refused to apologize to First Lady Melania Trump after she threatened him with legal action for over $1bn in damages if he failed to retract comments he made linking her to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. F*** that! Thats not going to happen, Biden laughed during a new interview with British journalist Andrew Callaghan, the same person he was speaking to in July when he made the allegations that apparently enraged the first lady. First of all is that, what I said was what I have heard and seen reported and written, primarily from Michael Wolff but also dating back all the way to 2019 when The New York Times I think Annie Carney and and Maggie Haberman reported that sources said that Jeffrey Epstein claimed to be the person to introduce Donald Trump to Melania at that time, Biden continued. Hunter Biden sat for another interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan to address the legal threats made by First Lady Melania Trump (YouTube/Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan) But the primary source was the interviews that Michael Wolff has been conducting, in which he has actually tapes of, I think, hours and hours and hours of interviews with Jeffrey Epstein directly. So, you know, fact of the matter is that, you know, I dont think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a designed distraction because its not about who introduced whom to who. I dont know how that in any way rises to the level of defamation to begin with. Lawyers for Trump had objected to two statements made by Biden, the son of former president Joe Biden, in a YouTube interview he gave to Callaghan last month. In the sprawling discussion in question, Biden alleged that it was Epstein who first introduced Melania to Trump in the late 1990s, when she was a fashion model and he a luxury property magnate with no known political aspirations. The statements are false, defamatory, and extremely salacious, Melania Trumps lawyer, Alejandro Brito, wrote in the letter to Biden. His remarks were widely disseminated on social media and reported by media outlets around the world, causing the first lady to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm, Brito wrote. The letter demands that Biden walk back the claim and apologise or face legal action for over $1bn in damages. Hunter Biden and First Lady Melania Trump, who are at odds after the former alleged the latter had been introduced to her husband, President Donald Trump, by the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein (AFP/Getty) It also accuses the former presidents son of having a vast history of trading on the names of others and repeating the claim to draw attention to yourself. Biden made the Epstein comments while also lashing out at elites like the Hollywood actor George Clooney and others in the Democratic Party whom, he said, had undermined his father before he dropped out of last years presidential campaign, also revealing that Biden Sr had been on Ambien when he suffered a disastrous debate defeat to Trump in Atlanta last June. Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep, Biden said in one of the comments Trump disputes. As he suggested again on Thursday, Biden attributed the claim at the time to Wolff, whom the president disparaged in June as a third-rate reporter and accused of making up stories to sell books. The first ladys threats echo a favored strategy of her husband, who has aggressively used litigation to go after critics. Public figures like the Trumps face a high bar to succeed in a defamation lawsuit. Hunter Biden sitting for his original with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan in July (Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan/YouTube) The president and first lady have long said they were introduced by Paolo Zampolli, a modeling agent, at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. The letter to Hunter Biden is dated August 6 and was first reported on Wednesday by Fox News Digital. Abbe Lowell, a lawyer who has represented Biden in his criminal cases and to whom Brito's letter is addressed, did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Wednesday. President Trump continues to face questions about his past friendship with Epstein, but has not been accused of any wrongdoing and is currently suing The Wall Street Journal for reporting that he once sent the sex offender a bawdy doodle for his birthday. The uproar over the disgraced financier has raged ever since the Justice Department and FBI ruled in early July that he left behind no client list and died by suicide in August 2019, a verdict that enraged the presidents supporters, who continue to demand answers and allege a cover-up to protect influential people. It has been reported that the president was briefed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who stated that his name appears in the governments files on Epstein, but that does not imply misconduct. Trump is known to have become increasingly frustrated at the storys continued dominance of the news agenda over the past six weeks and has even rebuked members of his conservative coalition for obsessing over it. Additional reporting by agencies. Newcastle have agreed a fee for Aston Villa winger Jacob Ramsey. The 24-year-old is due to travel to the north east for a medical after a deal in the region of 40million was agreed, the PA news agency understands. The prospective sale of Ramsey, who has made 167 appearances at Villa Park, will represent pure profit for Villa, who are walking a UEFA financial fair play and PSR tightrope and need to sell. Ramsey came through the ranks at Aston Villa (Jacob King/PA) If the medical goes without problem and personal terms are agreed in the next 24 hours, Ramsey could be a Newcastle player by the time they visit Villa Park for Saturday lunchtimes Premier League opener. Villa boss Unai Emery is not expected to see much, if any, of the financial proceeds as the clubs spending is under the close eye of UEFA after they were fined 9.5m for breaching regulations. They are keen on re-signing Paris St Germain midfielder Marco Asensio, who spent the second half of last season on loan. Ramseys arrival at St James Park will boost spirits after a difficult transfer window for Eddie Howes side. They have signed Anthony Elanga and Malick Thiaw, with Aaron Ramsdale arriving on loan, but missed out on Benjamin Sesko, who chose to join Manchester United instead. The future of Alexander Isak also remains unclear following the Sweden internationals desire to join Liverpool. The liquefied natural gas import terminal at the Isle of Grain in Kent can hold 15m tonnes of the fuel. Photograph: Paul Hackett/Reuters The owner of British Gas has placed a 1.5bn bet on the UKs future reliance on fossil fuel imports after striking a deal to buy Europes biggest gas import terminal. Centrica plans to partner with a US private equity firm to acquire the Isle of Grain terminal in Kent, which can import 15m tonnes of liquefied natural gas a year, even after Britains gas demand fell last year to its lowest level since the early 1990s. The pair will buy the gas terminal from the FTSE 100 energy company National Grid, which in recent years has sold off its interests in Britains gas infrastructure in favour of investing in electricity grids. Chris OShea, the chief executive of Centrica, said the strategic asset would continue to support the UKs energy security for many decades to come during the transition to net zero. The deal comes after Centricas 20bn deal with Norways state energy company earlier this summer to buy enough gas to meet nearly 10% of the UKs needs for the next decade. Under the agreement, Centrica will buy around 5bn cubic metres of gas from Equinor enough to supply 5m UK homes every year from this winter until 2035 at the prevailing market rate. OShea has also called on the government to support a 2bn project to upgrade its Rough gas storage facility, the largest gas store in Britain, as a very valuable insurance policy for when the sun doesnt shine and the wind doesnt blow. Britains gas imports tumbled by 47% last year to lows not recorded since before the pandemic, despite falling homegrown production of North Sea oil and gas, as the overall demand for gas slumped to its lowest level since 1992. British households are expected to continue using gas for heating and cooking for decades as efforts to replace gas boilers with electric heat pumps have struggled to meet the governments goal of installing 600,000 a year. Related: Huge Butchered artwork installed on North Sea gas rig by Greenpeace activists But the electricity sector is expected to cut dramatically its reliance on gas power plants in the years ahead. The UK has already reduced significantly its use of gas to generate electricity owing to a rise in electricity imports from Europe and lower energy demand overall. Wind power generated more electricity than gas in 2024, contributing 30% of the UKs power needs against just over 26% from gas plants as low carbon generation hit a record high. By the end of the decade, the government hopes gas plants will be used as a last resort option in the UKs electricity market and generate just 5% of the UKs power under its plans to create a virtually carbon-free power system. Last month, Centrica struck a deal to take a 15% stake in the planned Sizewell C nuclear power plant on the Suffolk coast, which is expected to begin operating in the mid- to late 2030s. Eva Baker, the head student at the college, will go to study law in September. Photograph: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian Eva Baker, 18, was racked with nerves in the days running up to Thursday when sixth-form students throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their A-level results. The sleepless nights were worth it though, said Baker. I just got off the phone with my first choice and Ive got in, I cant believe it honestly. Im just made up. In the past two years, Baker said she went from not knowing if she even wanted to finish school to being appointed head student and achieving grades she did not think were possible including an A in law, which she is going to study in September. Before I came here, I dont know, I was on the wrong track I think. I just didnt think I could do it. But my teacher saw something in me that I didnt see in myself. They made me head student and they pushed me, helped me study and Im so grateful. Eva was one of the hundreds of delighted faces opening their results outside Birkenhead sixth-form college, a state institute that says it prioritises social mobility and opportunity in an area with some of the highest levels of deprivation in the country. Of the more than 600 students who attend the school, 92% will go to their first-choice university this year, 10% more than the national average and significantly more than the 60% achieved by other schools in the area. Weve had so many parents say this is the best choice theyve ever made, said its principal, Mike Kilbride, watching students and parents line up in the car park to enjoy a free celebratory breakfast provided by the college. What we do is we say, were going to take people from our community in all these shapes and sizes that they come in and were going to help them become outstanding young people, academically and behaviourally and culturally. So we are about moulding young people, whether they go to university or not, to be the best people they can be. Kaitlin Archer received three As and is due to start studying to be a doctor in Edinburgh. Having travelled in from Cheshire every day and often staying after school to study, she said the school had helped her grow as a person as well as a student, giving her the confidence to move away to a new city for the next phase of her life. I think to be honest, the biggest change has just been me as a person. Ive always been, you know, someone who just stays at home, but Ive come here and met the people and I feel like Ive just changed a lot. Im happy academically but personally as well, Im happy with where Ive ended up. One of the schools greatest success stories this year is 18-year-old Scott Rawling, who has been admitted to the University of Oxford to study english literature. Rawling, state educated and from nearby Pensby, said he was proud to have achieved something that he thought was impossible when he started his A-levels two years ago. Its something thats in the back of your mind, that a lot of people who go to those types of places are richer, said Rawling, who was encouraged to apply to Oxbridge by his teachers. Its not something I expected, but Im so happy I got in, and I feel pride in the fact that I went to a state school. Among the sea of smiles in the schools car park, possibly the biggest was worn by Jane Rawling, Scotts mother. Speaking about her sons achievements while apologising for him disappearing to go to the pub with his friends, she said she could not be prouder of her son. Hes worked so hard and the schools helped him so much, its amazing. He really has put a lot of effort in and Im really pleased that its paid off. Jane Rawling said she would pack her son a Tranmere Rovers top when he leaves to begin his studies in October, but that she was not worried about his future prospects. Im so glad as well that he stayed true to himself, she said. You know, hes not changed in any particular way other than hes just developed and hes grown and hes just a really nice person and I think, actually, Oxford will be really lucky to have him. Sandie Peggie, who was cleared by an internal disciplinary inquiry of misconduct, arriving for a hearing in her tribunal case - Iain Masterton An NHS board has admitted breaking equality rules by allowing a transgender doctor into a womens hospital changing room without assessing the consequences. NHS Fife has confirmed it carried out no impact assessment regarding the provision of single-sex changing facilities for staff, the UKs equalities watchdog has disclosed. Dr Beth Upton, who was born male, was allowed to use womens changing facilities at the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, and Sandie Peggie, an A&E nurse, was suspended after challenging the doctors presence. Baroness Falkner, who chairs the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has now said an impact assessment was a requirement to meet the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED). Assessment due by late September In an unprecedented intervention, she said the EHRC had ordered the board to produce an assessment, and anticipates it will be published by Sept 30. She said the watchdog had also made clear that NHS Fife must comply with Aprils Supreme Court ruling that trans women are not women for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010. The intervention comes as Ms Peggies employment tribunal against the health board and Dr Upton continues. The case hinges on an incident on Dec 24 2023, when Ms Peggie entered the womens changing room and found Dr Upton there, prompting her to challenge the doctors presence. Within hours, Dr Upton lodged a bullying complaint, and Ms Peggie was suspended. Dr Beth Upton, who was allowed to use the womens changing facilities at the Victoria Hospital, despite being born male - Iain Masterton/Alamy Live News In May last year, Ms Peggie submitted a formal claim to an employment tribunal against NHS Fife and Dr Upton for sexual harassment, belief discrimination and victimisation. She has recently been cleared of gross misconduct by an NHS Fife disciplinary hearing. After the first part of the tribunal in February, the EHRC wrote to NHS Fife reminding the board of its obligations about the provision of single-sex spaces. Lady Falkner said: Earlier this year, we asked NHS Fife to provide us with information on the provision of single-sex changing facilities for staff and the rights of different groups in the application of these policies. At that point, NHS Fife confirmed no equality impact assessment was available. Undertaking an equality impact assessment of relevant policies or practices, and publishing the results, are requirements of the PSED specific duties in Scotland. We believe NHS Fife failed to meet these requirements and told them to carry one out immediately. Ministerial oversight She added that the board had commissioned one and provided assurances that it was reviewing the impact of the Supreme Court ruling on its policies and procedures. Lady Falkner also said discussions were continuing with the Scottish Government on ministerial oversight of the provision of staff single-sex facilities across NHS Scotland. During a meeting with Neil Gray, the Scottish Health Secretary, in June, she said the watchdog emphasised that while health boards are responsible for their own compliance with the Equality Act, Scottish ministers have a responsibility to ensure their adherence with the Public Sector Equality Duty. Maya Forstater, the chief executive of Sex Matters, which is supporting Ms Peggies legal action, said: This directive to NHS Fife is an unprecedented intervention from the EHRC and the kind of muscle that has been lacking from regulators across the board since gender ideology first took hold of public institutions. While long overdue, this is a clear instruction to NHS Fife and in fact all employers that it cannot get away with continuing to flout the Equality Act. Shameful admission Tess White, the Scottish Tories shadow equalities minister, said: This damning directive from the EHRC confirms that, on top of being negligent, incompetent and biased, NHS Fife broke the law in relation to the Sandie Peggie case. The shameful admission from the health board confirms that Sandie Peggie was hung out to dry from the very beginning of this tawdry scandal simply for standing up for her rights as a woman. Susan Smith, a director of For Women Scotland, the feminist group that won the Supreme Court case, said: We are thankful the EHRC has intervened with NHS Fife, although it is shocking it had to come to this. Moreover, four months after the Supreme Court ruling, the board should update policies to reflect the law, not merely review them. A spokeswoman for the Murray Blackburn Mackenzie policy analysis group said: This directive is a much needed wake-up call to all organisations that continue flout the law. A Scottish Government spokesman said it had made clear it accepts the Supreme Court ruling and since April has been taking forward the detailed work that is necessary as a consequence of the ruling. They added: That work is ongoing. NHS Fife was approached for comment. Kim Yo Jong denied the claims and said North Korea had not removed the loudspeakers - Jorge Silva/Pool South Koreas peace overtures are a pipe dream, the powerful sister of North Koreas Kim Jong-un has warned, in comments mocking Seoul for its recent attempts to ease hostilities. At the weekend, the South Korean military said it had spotted its neighbour dismantling some of its propaganda loudspeakers, which are dotted along the rivals shared border, just days after Seoul had removed its own. But on Thursday Kim Yo Jong, who is often seen as the public face of the regimes diplomatic messaging, said the analysis was an unfounded unilateral supposition and a red herring. In comments carried by the state-controlled Korean Central News Agency, Ms Kim added: We have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them. A firing test carried out by North Koreas army in July. Kim Jong-Un is reportedly focused on strengthening ties with Russia - KCNA/EPA/Shutterstock She also reiterated previous statements that Pyongyang has no intention of renewing long-stalled peace negotiations with Seoul or Washington, calling reports North Korea could engage in dialogue with the United States false suppositions. Analysts have suggested Mr Kim is more interested in boosting his alignment with Russia. Since resuming its loudspeaker programme in June 2024, Seoul had blasted K-pop alongside propaganda a move designed to irritate Pyongyang amid Mr Kims crackdown on South Korean cultural exports. For its part, the North often blares unsettling noises, such as howling animals. But Seoul set its loudspeakers to silent after a new liberal government, which wants to improve frayed relations with Pyongyang, came into office in June. Last week, the military began removing its speakers from the border areas altogether. Yet, only two days after Lee Jae Myung, South Koreas president, described North Koreas reciprocal measure of dismantling some loudspeakers, Ms Kim poured cold water on hopes that relations were beginning to improve. She accused Seoul of building up the public opinion while embellishing their new policy towards Pyongyang, and suggested that adjustments made to the plan for annual joint military drills by South Korea and the US were a futile move that did not change overall intent. I am confident that Seouls policy towards the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] remains unchanged and can never change, Ms Kim said. Earlier this week, North Korea denounced the 11-day joint drills, due to begin on Aug 18, as direct military provocation and warned of counteraction. On Thursday, the South Korean military stood by its assessment that the North was removing some loudspeakers and warned against being easily swayed by statements from Pyongyang. It has always been the case that North Korea often makes claims that arent true, said Lee Sung Joon, South Koreas joint chiefs of staff spokesman. Rachel Reeves has pledged to tackle the UKs productivity challenge at the budget this autumn. The Chancellor Reeves said investment in infrastructure projects and reform of the planning system form part of the Governments plans to boost the economys productive capacity. If renewal is our mission and productivity is our challenge, then investment and reform are our tools, she wrote in an editorial for The Guardian newspaper. The Governments plans to cut red tape and shift responsibility away from councillors and towards expert officers are set out in its Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which is currently making its way through the House of Lords. Writing in the newspaper, Ms Reeves added that Labours second year in power will be focused on building a stronger economy for a renewed Britain. She wrote: Working people across Britain are striving and grafting, but they havent had the tools they need for the job. They have not seen their incomes rise as a reward for their hard work. There is that sinking feeling that families and businesses across the country feel at the end of every month that they are working hard, but getting nowhere. There is nothing progressive nothing Labour about an economy that is not productive and does not reward those who contribute. Since I became shadow chancellor and then Chancellor, I have known that breaking this cycle will require our sustained effort across many fronts. Ms Reeves also said her decision on tax rises would be set out in a responsible manner at the budget, despite some already claiming to know her plans. Her comments come as the latest gross domestic product (GDP) figures are set to be released on Thursday. In April this year, the economy saw the biggest monthly contraction since October 2023. Manufacturing activity had pulled back sharply amid a record drop in exports to the US following President Donald Trumps tariff hikes. Official figures showed gross domestic product (GDP) fell by 0.3% in April, compared with growth of 0.2% the previous month. Productivity was 0.2% lower in the first quarter of 2025, in comparison to the first three months of 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics. In July, Cabinet ministers were told to prioritise productivity-enhancing opportunities when it comes to decisions on Government contracts. Ms Reeves and Cabinet Office chief Pat McFadden said in a letter that public procurement expenditure should boost British industry, jobs, skills, productivity. Here's how to save 25 per cent on your Railcard with TrainPal (TrainPal) Its no secret that train travel can be pricey, but TrainPal helps keep costs down with competitive fares from all major rail operators, including Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, LNER and even Eurostar. Alongside handy features such as split ticketing and a best price guarantee, the platform regularly offers extra ways to save including flash sales and promo codes. Right now, until 11.59pm on 31 December 2025, The Independents readers can enjoy an exclusive TrainPal discount on Railcards and train tickets. New customers can get up to 25 per cent off, while existing customers can save up to 10 per cent. Keep reading for all you need to know. How to save 25 per cent on a new Railcard By using a Railcard, you can save up to a third on train travel. If this is your first time booking with TrainPal, you can take advantage of a generous 25 per cent discount on a new Railcard by using the code INDY25 at checkout. That means you can get a one year family and friends Railcard for 26.25, instead of 35, or the three year family and friends Railcard for 60, instead of 80. There are nine Railcards to choose from, including a 16-25, 26-30, senior, two together and network Railcard, so the chances are high that youll find one to suit you. You will need to create an account to use the discount code and activate your Railcard within 30 days by applying it to a TrainPal ticket purchase. Our exclusive offer doesnt stop at Railcards. If youre a new TrainPal customer, you can also get 5 off train tickets with the discount code perfect if youre squeezing in a last minute summer getaway or planning ahead to autumn. The savings apply to all UK routes, including airport stations such as Birmingham International, London Gatwick and Stansted. You can even use it on longer routes, such as a London to Edinburgh return during the Fringe Festival. Just copy and paste the same INDY25 discount code on the booking confirmation page. How to save as an existing customer Theres no need to worry if youre already a TrainPal customer, as you can still enjoy a 10 per cent Railcard discount using the same INDY25 code at checkout. That means instead of the full price of 35, you can get a one-year Railcard for 31.50. You can also use the code for a two per cent saving on train tickets booked before 31 December 2025. The Independent readers can enjoy an exclusive TrainPal discount until the end of the year (TrainPal) How to redeem your exclusive TrainPal promo code Copy the code INDY25 and head to the TrainPal app or website to start your booking or Railcard purchase. If youre a new customer, youll need to create a TrainPal account to use the discount code. For Railcard purchases, you will find a Promotions section at the bottom of the first page of the checkout. Simply paste your TrainPal Railcard promo code into the designated box and hit the Redeem button. For rail ticket purchases, once you have selected the journey and time you want to book, continue to the booking confirmation page. When you reach the passenger information page, you will see a Promotions section at the bottom where you can paste your voucher code and redeem it. Our top tips to get cheap train tickets As well as applying a TrainPal voucher code to your booking, there are plenty more ways to reduce the cost of your train tickets. Here are a few easy ways to save: The Co-op store in Footscray Road, New Eltham (Google) Staff at a Co-op in southeast London say they no longer feel safe at work as a surge in shoplifting sees hundreds of pounds worth of goods stolen every week. The store on Footscray Road, New Eltham, Greenwich, is targeted by shoplifters every day, staff say, with many individuals appearing intoxicated, and one has grown increasingly aggressive. We worry that its only a matter of time before he seriously harms a member of staff, one employee told The Standard. Unfortunately, we are unable to stop them and they know this. All we can do is ask them to return the items. Staff are now appealing to Co-ops Head Office to provide full-time security at the New Eltham store, to ensure a safer environment for both employees and customers. We used to have security several times a week, which did deter some of them, the employee added. But even then, the guards were limited in what they could do, as they are not allowed to physically intervene. While it did not comment on this specific store, Co-op said it has invested more than 200million in colleague and store safety in recent years, including CCTV and body-worn cameras. Discarded security tagged boxes (Rob Sayers) But local community champion Rob Sayers believes more needs to be done. He has set up a petition urging Co-ops Head Office to boost security at the New Eltham store to protect staff, after discovering multiple empty security cases discarded in a nearby park. Mr Sayers said: This is not just a matter of lost stock its a serious safety issue. The people who work at our local Co-op deserve to feel safe and protected at all times. Customers also deserve a shopping environment that is secure and free from fear of criminal behaviour. In April, Co-op reported that losses from shoplifting in its food retail business rose to 80 million in 2024, accounting for more than half of its adjusted operating profit. The number of shoplifting offences recorded in England and Wales reached a 20-year high last year, up 20% from 429,873 in 2023. The figure is the highest since current police recording practices began in the year to March 2003, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Our customers are getting sick and tired of witnessing these shoplifters filling their bags, they are frustrated with us as they feel we should be stopping them, the Co-op employee added. We have elderly customers who fear coming into the store as they are worried they may be harmed. Weve tried limiting the number of items on display to just a few, but it hasn't helped theyre still stolen. Staff said managers spend a significant time filing incident reports, while they praised a small local police team who do their best to visit us as often as they can, but stressed that more support is needed. A spokesperson for Co-op told The Standard: Co-op has been a relentless campaigner to tackle retail crime, and as a community-based retailer, we see the corrosive impact of retail crime and anti-social behaviour in society which is not acceptable, with often a significant cost to the physical and mental well-being of our store colleagues who face into this issue every single day. Co-op has invested more than 200 million over recent years, in colleague and store safety and security, including the latest interactive CCTV, body-worn cameras, use of dummy (or empty) packaging to deter bulk-theft and covert (undercover) and non-covert guarding, with the tactical use of specially trained guards able to detain criminals. Since the Governments Retail Crime Action Plan was published, a significant improvement in police attention has been seen, however, small stores are the life-blood of local communities, and we will continue to work to get more done to tackle root causes and prevent reoffending. Rachel Reeves and Keir Starmer have been under pressure to boost investment in the North (Getty) The Northern Powerhouse Rail will reportedly be revived this winter, as part of Labours commitment to improving transport connections to the North and to boost UK infrastructure. Sir Keir Starmer is set to make the announcement before the Labour conference in a speech with chancellor Rachel Reeves. Transport secretary Heidi Alexander is also set to make the rail project a central topic of her conference speech, which is due to take place on 28 September. A government source told The Guardian that the announcement was likely to take place before then but that the timing was not yet confirmed. Northern political and industry leaders are also calling for Starmer to revive HS2 plans (PA Archive) It comes after a series of recent U-turns that have frustrated Labour voters and backbench MPs, as speculation continues that the Treasury will announce tax rises to plug a 40bn spending hole. Since being elected last July, political and industry leaders in the north of England have been pushing for Sir Keir to revive the Manchester section of HS2 and to commence building for Northern Powerhouse Rail. With plans set for the railway to connect Liverpool to Hull, it is seen as a crucial development for the UK as it would also provide connections to Leeds, Bradford and Sheffield. Current infrastructure in the North is frequently criticised, with train routes falling into disrepair coupled with poor bus and road connections. Former prime minister Rishi Sunak decided not to extend the HS2 railway between the West Midlands and Manchester in 2023, after the project exceeded its budget and became mired in delays. The previous Conservative governments Integrated Rail Plan sparked outrage among northern leaders in November 2021, when it said that a new line would only be built on one section, and the rest of the route would get enhancements to existing lines. The Northern Powerhouse Rail plan is seen as a critical development for UK infrastructure (Northern) In July, Ms Reeves said: In the coming weeks I will set out this governments plan to take forward our ambitions for Northern Powerhouse Rail. The chancellor has also announced 3.5bn more funding to support the TransPennine Route Upgrade, a project to improve the railway between York and Manchester. She said the government would provide 2.5bn of additional funding to enable the continued delivery of East West Rail, a new line between Oxford and Cambridge. In her spending review she also said railways in Wales would get 445m investment over 10 years. Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky have said there is strong resolve for peace in Ukraine ahead of highly anticipated talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The two leaders expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about ending the war, as they met on Wednesday, a Downing Street statement said. In a separate statement, Mr Zelensky said there had been discussions about the security guarantees required to make any deal truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killing. The Prime Minister hosted the Ukrainian president for a private breakfast in No 10 on Thursday as Europe braces for the face-to-face meeting between the US president and his Russian counterpart in Alaska on Friday. European leaders are hopeful about the potential for a ceasefire after a joint call with Mr Trump on Wednesday, during which he reportedly told them his goal for the summit was to secure a ceasefire. But concerns linger over the prospect of Kyiv being excluded from negotiations over its own future, and pressured to cede territory, after the US leader suggested any agreement may need to involve swapping of land. Ukraine has already rejected any proposal that would compromise its borders. In a readout of the morning meeting between Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky, a Downing Street spokesman said: They had a private breakfast, where they discussed yesterdays meetings. They agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after their meeting at 10 Downing Street (Jordan Pettitt/PA) On Wednesday, Sir Keir co-chaired a virtual meeting of the coalition of the willing a European-led effort to send a peacekeeping force to Ukraine to monitor any deal where he said there was a viable chance of a truce. Downing Street repeated that language on Thursday, with the caveat that it would require the Russian president to take action to prove he is serious about peace. (Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky) agreed to stay in close touch in the coming days, the readout said. The Ukrainian president, who was warmly embraced by the Prime Minister, with a red carpet rolled out for his arrival in Downing Street, said the meeting had been good and productive. But he urged the UK to join PURL- Natos Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative, to provide weapons to Kyiv. It is important that, within the framework of the coalition of the willing, we should all be able to achieve effective formats for security cooperation, he said. We also discussed the continuation of support programs for our army and our defense industry. Under any scenario, Ukraine will maintain its strength. Keir and I also talked about such mechanisms for weapons supplies as the PURL programme, and I urged the UK to join. It comes as The Times newspaper reported that Britain was planning to scale back its plans for a military peacekeeping force in Ukraine. UK military chiefs are now said to be involving air reassurance over western Ukraine, training support to the Ukrainian military and the clearance of mines from the Black Sea. The Government has been contacted for comment. Further sanctions could be imposed on Russia should the Kremlin fail to engage and the UK is already working on its next package of measures targeting Moscow, he said. Were ready to support this, including from the plans weve already drawn up to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, Sir Keir told allies on Wednesday. It is important to remind colleagues that we do stand ready also to increase pressure on Russia, particularly the economy, with sanctions and wider measures as may be necessary. Starmer and Zelensky united on strong resolve to secure just peace in Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin talks Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky are united in their strong resolve to secure a just peace in Ukraine ahead of the summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. After a meeting at No 10, the prime minister and the Ukrainian president expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce "as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious" about ending the war, Downing Street said. Mr Trump and the Russian president are due to meet in Alaska on Friday, raising fears the pair will try to decide the end of the war themselves, leaving Ukraine excluded and putting Europe's future security in jeopardy. The US president said he believed Putin will make a deal, during an interview on Fox News radio on Thursday - but then later appeared to play down expectations, suggesting a second meeting involving Mr Zelensky would be more important. As the world nervously awaits the meeting on Friday, Putin has dangled the idea that the talks could lead to Moscow and Washington reaching a deal on nuclear arms control. Starmer meets Zelensky at Downing Street ahead of Trump-Putin summit (PA) After their private breakfast meeting, seen as a show of support for Kyiv, Downing Street said Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Downing Street added there was a viable chance to make progress as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about peace. As they entered No 10, Sir Keir embraced Mr Zelensky in front of the cameras. But the pair refused to be drawn on whether Mr Trump could be trusted. It comes after Mr Trump threatened severe consequences if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine. The two men met in Downing Street (Getty) After his meeting with Sir Keir, Mr Zelensky suggested he and the PM had war-gamed potential outcomes of the Trump-Putin summit. We continue to coordinate our positions, he said in a post on X. We discussed expectations for the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects. 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 also urged Britain to join Nato's Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative (Purl), which provides weapons to Kyiv, following a report that the UK is to scale back plans for a military peacekeeping force in Ukraine. Since the weekend, Europe has rallied behind Ukraines right to decide its own future, amid concerns over Mr Zelenskys exclusion from Fridays summit. At the weekend, Mr Trump suggested a truce could involve some "swapping" of land. But Mr Zelensky furiously rejected any proposal that would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity. Putin is expected to use the summit to demand that Ukraine cede parts of the Donbas region, which it still controls. The Kremlin said that meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, will start at 11.30am local time (8.30pm UK time). Russias foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters that Mr Trump and Putin will first sit down for one-on-one talks, followed by a meeting between the two delegations. Talks will then continue over "a working breakfast. Following a meeting with his top officials, Putin said in a short video released by the Kremlin on Thursday that the Trump administration was making "quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities" and to "reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved. Putin also suggested that "long-term conditions of peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole," could be reached under an agreement with the US on nuclear arms control. In Washington, Mr Trump said there was a 25 per cent chance that the summit would fail, but he also floated the idea that, if it succeeded, he could bring Mr Zelensky to Alaska for a three-way meeting. He told Fox News Radio: I believe now, he's convinced that he's going to make a deal. He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to, and we're going to find out. Later, while speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Mr Trump said he would not let Putin get the better of him, adding: Hes not going to mess around with me. He also highlighted the importance of a second meeting, whcih he said could also involve European leaders. Tomorrow [Friday], all I want to do is set the table for the next meeting, which should happen shortly, he said. Farmers took part in a go-slow protest in Dover, Kent, in response to the tax raid - Gareth Fuller/PA Rachel Reeves should water down her family farm tax to protect working people, according to a think tank that championed the Labour policy. The Government pointed to research by the Centre for the Analysis of Taxation (CenTax) to justify its divisive raid, under which farms worth more than 1m will be hit by inheritance tax when passed on. However, the think tank has now said that working farmers are more likely to suffer under the policy than the wealthy, threatening to undermine Labours pledge to create a fairer system. Policy experts have called for some key mitigations to make the reforms better targeted, allowing estates worth up to 5m to be exempt from the tax rise. Watering down the existing plan would create a fresh headache for the Chancellor, who is already under pressure to raise taxes to plug a 50bn hole in the public finances. She announced an end to the universal ability to pass on farms without paying inheritance tax after death last year, sparking mass tractor protests outside Parliament. Mass protests took place outside Parliament following the announcement - Geoff Pugh for the Telegraph Ministers made the move as part of a plan to impose a new cap on those able to claim full agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR). But the National Farmers Union has warned that scores of family farms, which can often be cash-poor even if the land has a substantial value, risk being split up as a result. Better targeted reforms In a report published on Thursday, CenTax estimated that working farmers were more likely to be hit by the raid than wealthy landowners. While it largely endorsed the reforms, saying they were better than the status quo, two options were suggested for better targeting the changes while still raising at least as much revenue overall. The first, branded the minimum share rule, would remove inheritance tax relief for passive investors in farmland and other business assets, so they cannot be used as a tax shelter. This would fund an extension of 100 per cent inheritance tax relief for farmers and other business owners to 5m per estate. The report said: This adjustment would better target estates using APR and BPR for tax planning, whilst extending protection for family farms and other businesses. The second option would cap inheritance tax relief to the first 10m of a claim. This would fund an extension in the allowance for 100 per cent relief to 2m per estate. Reasonable and fair After the farm tax was announced, James Murray, the Treasury minister, and Daniel Zeichner, the rural affairs minister, used CenTax to justify the raid, claiming the think tank considered it reasonable and fair. Ministers have said that the controversial reforms are intended to stop rich landowners avoiding the levy while protecting small family farms. Last year, Mr Zeichner told MPs: Currently, small farms can find themselves facing the same levels of tax bills as much larger farms, despite having a much smaller asset. Twenty per cent of agricultural property relief is claimed by the top 2 per cent; 40 per cent is claimed by the top 7 per cent. That is not fair, it is not sustainable, and sadly, it has been used in some cases by wealthy landowners to avoid inheritance tax. That is why the Government has announced plans to reform agricultural property relief. However, CenTax found working farmers were most likely to be stung by the change. The think tank estimated the impact of the policy on different types of farm estate, defined as the total wealth of a person who died owning farmland or assets, as opposed to the value of a physical farm. It found that just 20 per cent of landowner estates would be hit by the tax, compared to 25 per cent of tenant farmer estates, 45 per cent of owner-farmer estates, and 67 per cent mixed tenure estates. In a statement accompanying the report, CenTax said: Landowners are less likely to be impacted by the reform than working farmers, representing 64 per cent of all farm estates but 42 per cent of impacted farm estates. Owner-farmers represent 17 per cent of all farm estates but 37 per cent of impacted farm estates. 1508 Farm estates impacted by Tax raid Mo Metcalf-Fisher, the director of external affairs at the Countryside Alliance said: Labour ministers repeatedly say they want to protect genuine family farming businesses, while tackling tax avoidance, through inheritance tax changes. The evidence, however, points to it being these very families and their farms that will be badly impacted by the policy, as it stands. There is still time to listen to experts from the farming sector and rethink the policy before its too late. Such a move would make life more difficult for Ms Reeves, who is now on course to miss her borrowing targets by 41.2bn, according to the National Institute of Economic and Social Research. If she wants to restore the 9.9bn of headroom maintained since last years Budget, she must raise taxes or cut spending by 51.1bn. At least five wildfires have ripped through an east London park over three days, with the London Fire Brigade suspecting that some of the fires may have been started deliberately. Firefighters have attended a series of wildfires at Wanstead Flats, with flames reaching the heights of trees in one case on Wednesday morning. The London Fire Brigade told the Standard that it has referred the case to the Met Police. Police confrmed they were investigating a fire after reports it was started on purpose. A spokesperson said: Police were called at 12:17hrs on Wednesday, 13 August to Wanstead Flats by the London Fire Brigade following a fire. Met Police are continuing to investigate following reports that the fire was started deliberately. No arrests have been made at this stage and enquiries are ongoing. See also: Which areas of London are most at risk of wildfires? Large red flames had ripped through shrubs near a path at the park on Monday, with around 60 firefighters rushing to the scene. Grass fires then broke out at Wanstead Flats shortly after 1.30pm on Tuesday afternoon. Members of the public at the site of one of the fires (Yui Mok/PA Wire) A blaze burnt through around four hectares just metres from where the fire took place on Monday. Three fires then broke out on Wednesday morning at the park, with huge flames burning several trees near Lake House Road. At one stage, the fire was as high as the tree line and quickly spread across a wooden area. A 30x30 metre section of the park was also alight in the park on Wednesday morning. Huge flames ripped through a section of Wanstead Park on Wednesday (Jacob Phillips) The London Fire Brigade was able to quickly bring all three of the fires under control, deploying a wildfire response vehicle to help fight the flames. Fire crews were seen hosing down brambles and waist-high grass to prevent any further fires from breaking out. A Brigade spokesperson said: "We were called at 1043 this morning to reports of a fire at Wanstead Flats. Firefighters attended and extinguished an area of grassland of around 30x30 metres that was alight. Shortly after being called to this incident, we were alerted to a second fire in the area, affecting around one hectare of grassland. Firefighters deployed a wildfire response vehicle, which has off-road capabilities and misting lance technology, to help tackle wildfires more quickly and efficiently. Both fires were extinguished by 1152. A third fire involving bush and grassland also occurred near Belgrave Road at around midday. Since Monday, firefighters have attended at least five fires at Wanstead Flats." (Yui Mok/PA Wire) Wanstead Flats has been almost treeless since the twelfth century and its gravelly soil is home to bright yellow gorse flowers, heathers and various grasses, which are a special feature of Epping Forest. The area is mainly made up of acid grasslands and is thought to be one of the most important sites in London for this type of grassland. Wanstead Flats are also home to pipistrelle bats, kestrels, voles and foxes. The City of London, which takes care of Wanstead Flats, has warned even a single spark can cause a fire if it is hot and dry in the area. (Yui Mok/PA Wire) Chair of the City of London Corporations Epping Forest & Commons Committee, Caroline Haines, said: We are deeply concerned about a spate of fires on Wanstead Flats in the past few days, which are placing extreme pressure on both the London Fire Brigade and our resources as a charity. This urban part of Epping Forest is a popular summer destination for families, dog walkers, and nature lovers, and it is home to valuable habitats and species. Barbecues are banned across all our open spaces for exactly this reason, and litter including glass bottles and cigarette ends can easily ignite a blaze. We urge everyone to follow the rules and help protect this much-loved green space, keeping people and property safe. Remember, if you see a fire, keep a safe distance and call 999. You should never attempt to put out the fire yourself. The fires took place as London entered its fourth heatwave of the year, with temperatures reaching 33.4C in Northolt in west London on Tuesday. Eight fire engines and 60 firefighters were also sent to a grass fire in Northolt at 1.35pm on Tuesday, with crews sent from Northolt, Ruislip, Hayes and surrounding fire stations. A fire also broke out in Richmond Park on Tuesday, with the Royal Parks Police warning that discarded cigarettes and BBQs are prohibited in the area. The London Fire Brigade has also warned that during spells of dry and hot weather, many wildfires are started deliberately or accidentally by people. London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall said: While some wildfires can occur naturally, particularly during spells of extreme dryness and heat, the majority of these fires can be easily avoided by the public behaving responsibly, whether that be starting wildfires deliberately or accidentally. What might seem like harmless fun has the potential to have devastating consequences especially in London when so many of our green spaces lie close to properties. There is also the impact on wildlife and the ability for others to enjoy their local green spaces. These types of incidents can also have a impact on our resources and wildfires can be challenging for firefighters to deal with on the ground, especially if it is hot. As we head into the middle of the school holidays, were urging parents to inform their children on the risks of starting an outdoor fire, as well as encouraging them not to act recklessly or irresponsibly. The Met Police has been contacted for comment. Tottenham have said they are disgusted after forward Mathys Tel received racial abuse on social media after Wednesday nights UEFA Super Cup defeat to Paris St Germain. Tel missed a spot-kick in a penalty shoot-out, which Tottenham lost 4-3 after they had surrendered a late 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 after 90 minutes. The France Under-21s international, whose loan deal from Bayern Munich was made permanent in a 30million deal in June, was targeted with abuse after firing his effort wide. We are disgusted at the racial abuse that Mathys Tel has received on social media following last nights UEFA Super Cup defeat. Mathys showed bravery and courage to step forward and take a penalty, yet those who abuse him are nothing but cowards hiding behind anonymous pic.twitter.com/rOF1WYeos4 Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 14, 2025 Tottenham said in a statement: We are disgusted at the racial abuse that Mathys Tel has received on social media following last nights UEFA Super Cup defeat. Mathys showed bravery and courage to step forward and take a penalty, yet those who abuse him are nothing but cowards hiding behind anonymous usernames and profiles to spout their abhorrent views. We will work with the authorities and social media platforms to take the strongest possible action against any individual we are able to identify. We stand with you, Mathys. Tottenham led 2-0 until the 85th minute at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, Italy, through goals from Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero before late efforts from Lee Kang-in and Goncalo Ramos hauled PSG level. Richarlison also backed Tel and insisted something has to change following this latest incident of racism on social media. Winning or losing, getting it wrong or right, its all part of the game. Racism is not! Tel is still a young lad, great player at the beginning of his journey and doesn't deserve this, just like anyone else. This type of behaviour has no place anywhere anymore. I hope these Richarlison Andrade (@richarlison97) August 14, 2025 He said on X: Winning or losing, getting it wrong or right, its all part of the game. Racism is not! Tel is still a young lad, great player at the beginning of his journey and doesnt deserve this, just like anyone else. This type of behaviour has no place anywhere anymore. I hope these people (if I can even call them that) are severely punished!! Its so easy to hide behind a social media profile spreading hate and this kind of speech. Something has to change! Were with you, Tel! Donald and Melania Trump with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/ARCHIVE PHOTOS Jeffrey Epstein did not introduce Donald and Melania Trump, the president said, after the first lady threatened to sue Hunter Biden for $1bn for making the claim. Biden, the son of the former US president, alleged last month that Mr Trump had met his wife through Epstein, the paedophile financier who died in prison in 2019 after being charged with sex trafficking. The first lady threatened to take legal action against him if he did not retract the disparaging and inflammatory statement, a move which represented the latest salvo in a long-running feud between two of Americas most famous political families. On Thursday, Mr Trump publicly pushed back on Bidens claim, saying he met his wife through another person whom he did not name. The US president has been under pressure over his former friendship with Epstein as his administration refuses to approve a blanket release of the documents it holds on the paedophile. Speaking to Fox News radio host Brian Kilmeade, Mr Trump accused Biden of making up stories to demean the first lady and said he had encouraged her to sue him. Hunter Biden claims Donald Trump met his wife through Jeffrey Epstein - Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan I said go forward. You know, Ive done pretty well on these lawsuits lately and Jeffrey Epstein had nothing to do with Melania and introducing, he told Fox News Radio host Brian Kilmeade on Thursday morning. But they do that to demean, they make up stories. I mean I can tell you exactly how it was and it was another person actually but it wasnt Jeffrey Epstein. I told her go ahead and do it. Id rather use my lawyers very upset about it. Biden was publicly defiant after the first ladys legal threat. Asked if he would retract his words in a podcast interview, he said: F--- that. Thats not going to happen. In a previous podcast interview with the same host on July 22, Biden claimed that Mr Trump had been introduced to his wife by Epstein, citing Michael Wolff, the journalist who has written four books about the president. They spent an enormous time together. According to [Trumps] biographer, Jeffrey Epstein introduced Melania, he told Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan, a YouTube personality. Last week, Mrs Trump threatened to sue him if he did not immediately retract his claim and apologise. Hunter Biden made the claim during an interview with Andrew Callaghan last month - Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan Mr Wolff has stopped short of saying Mrs Trump was directly introduced to her husband by Epstein, but claims she was very involved in the financiers circle and met Mr Trump through a modelling agent with ties to both men. In a subsequent interview with Mr Callaghan published on Thursday, Biden publicly dared Mrs Trump to sue him, claiming the president and first lady would have to testify about Epstein in court. The entire world would love to get to the bottom of the trinity of that relationship, he said, adding that he would be the tip of the spear in drawing this out. However, Biden admitted the case would be an arduous process that could cost millions of dollars in legal fees. Weve got to figure out how were going to pay for it, he said. Mrs Trump was photographed with Epstein, alongside her husband and Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins former girlfriend, at a party at Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in Feb 2000. Melania Trump, Prince Andrew, Gwendolyn Beck and Epstein in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/ARCHIVE PHOTOS No other pictures have surfaced of the pair together, although the first lady was subsequently pictured at functions with Maxwell over the next few years. According to her memoir, published last year, Mrs Trump met her future husband when he approached her at a Fashion Week party in New Yorks Kit Kat Klub in 1998. By his own account, Mr Trump was friends with Epstein for at least 15 years until the pair fell out in the mid-2000s, seemingly over a real estate deal in Palm Beach. The friendship has come back to haunt him during his second term in office, after his administration refused last month to release the Epstein files documents held by the justice department on the paedophile. It prompted a backlash from some of the presidents closest allies, who have accused the government of a cover-up and called for the files to be published in full. If Mrs Trumps case against Biden comes to court, it is thought to be the first time that a member of a first family has sued another. Bad blood between Bidens and Trumps Biden, a businessman and artist, has recently embarked on a media tour, marking a contrast to his father Joe, who has maintained a low profile since leaving office in January as he battles an aggressive form of prostate cancer. The former first son has defended his father and angrily lashed out at Democrats who forced his father to abandon his presidential bid, including George Clooney. F him. F him. F him and everybody around him, Biden said of the actor, a long-time Democratic supporter who called for his father to end his re-election campaign. He also lashed out at Mr Trump, whom he labelled a f---ing dictator thug. The bad blood between the Trumps and Bidens extends back at least to the 2020 presidential election when Joe Biden beat Mr Trump in an ill-tempered campaign marked by personal attacks. During Mr Bidens presidency, Mr Trump accused him of weaponising the justice department against him in a bid to imprison him. The two men faced off again last year in the race for the White House, until a presidential debate in June during which Mr Biden was frequently incoherent, effectively ending his five-decade political career. Donald Trumps sweeping foreign aid cuts have emboldened Myanmars military rulers to commit even more human rights abuses, organisations working in the country have said. The cuts are projected to deprive the conflict-ravaged nation of more than $1bn in aid by 2029, according to the Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust (Hart) and Fortify Rights. This threatens to deepen a humanitarian crisis caused by a series of ethnic armed conflicts and worsened by the armys overthrow of Aung San Suu Kyis civilian government in a 2021 coup. Since ousting the democratically elected government, the junta led by General Min Aung Hlaing has waged civil war against a host of regional rebel groups across the country. The Independent released a documentary last December about the rise and fall of Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, who has remained under house arrest since the coup. Destroyed buildings in Kyauktaw, western Rakhine State, following junta airstrikes in May (AFP via Getty Images) In a report published on Wednesday, Hart and Fortify Rights underscored the disastrous impact of the Trump administrations order to freeze funding for USAID programmes on the first day of his second term in the White House. The Trump administration slashed USAID funding, halting some $60bn in foreign aid resulting in about 80 per cent of its projects being axed. This triggered the termination of over 5,800 grants, severely disrupting humanitarian and development efforts around the world. "Some of our worst fears are now being realised," Sam Mason, CEO of Hart, said. We warned that such a rushed and ill-conceived policy would weaken local mechanisms for oversight and justice, leaving civilians even more exposed to threats and persecution. Now, in some of the countrys most volatile regions, Mr Mason added, the military has carte blanche to violate human rights. The report, focusing on Shan State, a key battleground in the civil war bordering Thailand, claimed that armed groups were recruiting children as young as 10 to carry weapons or supplies. It highlighted that prolific sexual violence by armed groups was used as a weapon of war against Shan minorities and it had become even harder for survivors to seek support or medical treatment due to aid cuts. Benedict Rogers, senior director at Fortify Rights, said he recently returned from a month-long visit to the region where he witnessed the dire consequences first-hand. Refugees rations have been stopped, leaving them in a precarious struggle for survival. Food, schooling for children, and basic medical care have almost ceased, he said. Unless the international community steps up and works with Thai authorities to find sustainable solutions, these cuts could result in destitution, disease, and death. At a time when Myanmars military is committing egregious crimes, now is not the moment to cut lifelines of support. Fighters of the Mandalay People's Defense Forces head to the frontline (AFP via Getty) Mr Rogers said the ripple effects of the funding cuts were far-reaching, putting thousands of lives in grave danger and severely impeding the ability for pro-democracy and human rights groups to make their voices heard. The funding squeeze was also a gift to the junta and its international allies as it undermined efforts to seek accountability for mass atrocities. The cuts undermine years of international efforts to support a democratic future for Myanmar and strike a devastating blow to the countrys courageous but embattled democracy movement, he said. David Alton, a crossbench peer and former Lib Dem MP who is now chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, condemned the funding cuts. The more we remove deterrents to violence, the more we embolden the perpetrators, he said. We give them a green light to carry on their killings with impunity. It strengthens tyranny and intensifies suffering, Lord Alton said. The military coup in February 2021 plunged Myanmar into a civil war and deep humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 3.5 million people displaced internally. Medics treat injured students after an airstrike by the Myanmar army struck a school at Ohe Htein Twin village in Tabayin township on 12 May 2025 (AP) The fierce fighting between the juntas forces and armed ethnic groups in many areas of the country has led to civilians facing frequent attacks, arbitrary arrests and sexual violence. The closure of USAID has also disrupted critical humanitarian services along the border with Thailand where over 100,000 refugees rely on programmes funded by the US for food and medical care. An investigation led by the UN and reported on Wednesday said the Myanmar junta detained children as young as two, subjected them to torture, sexual abuse and beatings, and often used them as proxies for their parents. The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, covering the period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025, found evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity taking place with increasing frequency since the coup. Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk with Googles Sundar Pichai at Donald Trumps presidential inauguration in Washington, on 20 January 2025. Photograph: Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP Donald Trump is looking to relax environmental rules for commercial spaceship companies. In an executive order titled Enabling Competition in the Commercial Space Industry that he signed on Wednesday, he said its imperative to national security that the private rocket-ship industry increase launches substantially by 2030. That would mean, according to the executive order, that those companies may be able to forgo the environmental reviews that are required under the National Environmental Policy Act (Nepa). Private space companies are required to obtain launch permits from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). And, as part of that process, companies are subject to review under Nepa. Sean Duffy, the US secretary of transportation, which oversees the FAA, called Trumps executive order visionary. Related: Mexicos president threatens to sue over SpaceX debris from rocket explosions The FAA has faced criticism from space companies for taking too long to review launch permits while environmental groups have lambasted the agency for not using Nepa reviews to require more protections at launch sites. These environmental reviews are required because rocket launches and landings can be massively disruptive to local towns and residents, along with the natural surroundings. Exhaust, smoke plumes and sonic booms created at launch can injure and kill endangered species, and detritus from exploded rocket parts returning to Earth can harm fish and marine animals with hazardous material spills, fuel slicks and falling objects. Trumps executive order appears to especially benefit Elon Musk and his company SpaceX. SpaceX has been seeking to increase its rocket launches and landings around the country. The company has been involved in a lawsuit brought by environmental groups for violating the National Environmental Policy Act; they say the FAA did not do a thorough enough environmental assessment of SpaceXs impact to endangered species regarding its rocket launches in Boca Chica, Texas. The lawsuit looked at the first launch of SpaceXs massive Starship rocket in Texas in April 2023. The rocket, which is designed to one day make it to Mars, pulverized its launchpad on takeoff, sending chunks of concrete flying 6 miles (10km) away. The blast ignited a grassfire that burned nearly 4 acres (1.5 hectares) of state park and, from what is known, destroyed a nest of bobwhite quail eggs and a collection of blue land crabs. This reckless order puts people and wildlife at risk from private companies launching giant rockets that often explode and wreak devastation on surrounding areas, said Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity, one of the groups that brought the lawsuit. Bending the knee to powerful corporations by allowing federal agencies to ignore bedrock environmental laws is incredibly dangerous and puts all of us in harms way, Margolis added. This is clearly not in the public interest. The FAA announced in May that it had given SpaceX permission to increase its number of Starship launches in Texas from five per year to 25. SpaceX has also been seeking to increase launches of its smaller Falcon rockets from Vandenberg space force base in California from 50 per year to 95. Trumps executive order would facilitate an expedited review process to get these and other launch permits. Along with SpaceX, the order would benefit commercial space companies such as Jeff Bezoss Blue Origin, which has also been aiming to increase the number of its rocket launches. The White House touted the order on Wednesday as being the latest deregulatory action to reform Nepa and eliminate burdensome DEI requirements. This article was amended on 14 August 2025. Jeff Bezoss space company is named Blue Origin, not Blue Horizon as an early version stated. The Alaskan city of Anchorage, surrounded by dramatic peaks, will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. As all eyes will be on the southern-central city Friday afternoon as the two men are set to meet for a one-on-one meeting. A press conference could happen after, but it's unclear if both world leaders will be involved. The run-up to the summit sparked guesses about which world city would host the meeting, until Alaska was announced as host for the summit aimed at ending the war with Ukraine. Now, Alaska officials say its an opportunity for Anchorage to show the world just how important it is. Alaska is the crossroads of the world, Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance said this week. We are a strategic global location in so many ways. For our closeness to the Arctic, for our military presence, we have like 25,000 active duty personnel here in Alaska, for trade, for cargo, our cargo airport is one of the busiest in the world. As far as what this means for Alaska, what it means for Anchorage, its an opportunity to highlight our city, and to show the world how important we are, LaFrance added. Alaskas GOP Senator, Lisa Murkowski, said it was another opportunity for the Arctic to serve as a venue that brings together world leaders to forge meaningful agreements, though added she was deeply wary of Putin and his regime. The Alaskan city of Anchorage will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin who are set for a one-on-one meeting Friday afternoon. (Getty/iStock) Anchorage is the Last Frontier states biggest small town, and with a population of around 300,000, and it is Alaskas most populous city, according to the National Park Service. During the summer, residents experience about 19 hours of sunlight a day as the sun barely dips below the horizon. In the winter, when thick snow caps the mountains surrounding the city, its only daylight for around 5 hours. Presidents have met with world leaders and notable figures at the base in Anchorage in recent history, partly due to its convenient location to refuel. Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. Reagan visited Alaska the following year to meet with Pope John Paul II in the city of Fairbanks. In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Japanese Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. The meeting was extremely brief, with the monarch touching down at 10 p.m. local time and departing for his final destination of Europe by 11.40 p.m., according to the Richard Nixon Foundation. Former President Barack Obama also dropped by Anchorage in 2015 on a three-day trip to highlight the impacts of climate change in the region. Trump pictured at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in 2019. The president will touch down in Anchorage for the summit with Putin. (AP) Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. (Reagan Library) In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. (Richard Nixon Foundation) Anchorages military base was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height 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. As preparations for the Anchorage summit continue, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated that the meeting will be a one-on-one between Trump and Putin, with translators present, and that sensitive matters will be discussed. Both leaders will take part in a news conference once the summit is concluded, he added, as well as wider talks with their delegations and a working breakfast. Trump warned that Russia would face very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire but hinted that a follow-up meeting could be swiftly arranged if Fridays summit proves a success. Connor Wellsted, five, Mia Gauci-Lamport, 16, and Raihana Oluwadamilola Awolaja, 12, all died while in the care of The Childrens Trust in Surrey (Family Handout) (Family handout) Frontline staff were cut at a flagship rehabilitation unit weeks before a child died when nurses failed to monitor her properly, The Independent can reveal. The Childrens Trust (TCT), a care home for disabled children in Tadworth, Surrey, has been criticised by coroners after three young patients, who had brain injuries and complex conditions that required either around-the-clock care or regular monitoring, died while under its care. One of those children, Raihana Oluwadamilola Awolaja, 12, who was meant to be receiving one-to-one care, died in hospital after her breathing tube became blocked when she was left unattended for 15 minutes. A coroner later found her death had been contributed to by neglect and ruled that on the balance of probabilities, she would not have died at this time had she been appropriately observed when the breathing tube became blocked. Now, The Independent can reveal that the centre, which is the UKs largest brain injury rehabilitation centre for children, made staff redundant in the weeks before Raihanas death in June 2023 amid financial concerns. According to accounts analysed by The Independent, the trust had significant concerns over its finances in 2022 and 2023. A report said that redundancies had been unavoidable, with a restructure which reduced overall staff numbers by 15 per cent completed by May 2023. At Raihanas inquest, coroner Dr Fiona Wilcox found there was simply insufficient staff to provide constant one-to-one care and that the nurses gross failure to observe her was compounded by the lack of sufficient staff on the unit where Raihana lived to provide proper 1:1 care. Raihana Oluwadamilola Awolaja was aged 12 when she died under the care of The Childrens Trust (Leigh Day) She found that, in practice, the one-to-one care provided for the young girl by the trust was one nurse to two patients, when parts of the daily work routine, such as breaks, meetings and handovers, were taken into account. The coroners prevention of future deaths report said: There were simply insufficient staff to provide constant one-to-one care, as understood it should have been provided and commissioned by the local authority. There was confusion as to what one-to-one meant at the time of Raihanas death and how it is practised now by carers and nurses who gave evidence. The coroner added: There will still be occasions when vulnerable residents such as Raihana will be left one to two, with eyes on only observation, despite an apparent increase in numbers of staff on duty at any one time, albeit it should happen less often. Evidence to the inquest also revealed Raihanas mother repeatedly raised concerns that, contrary to the agreed levels of around-the-clock one-to-one care, she had found her daughter to be left with no supervising carer. The inquest heard this issue was discussed at meetings at TCT, but it continued to happen. Staffing levels were not explicitly mentioned in the coroners prevention of future deaths (PFD) reports for two other children who died at the unit, Mia Gauci-Lamport, 16, and five-year-old Connor Wellsted. Connor Wellsted with father Chris (Family Handout) But an inquest into Connors death heard he had likely been dead for hours by the time staff found him. The young boy was found dead in his cot at TCT on 17 May 2017 after he became trapped under a cot bumper. A key concern was that he had no regular or direct supervision overnight, other than staff opening the door or watching him through a glass window. Mia, who required 24-hour care, died of natural causes after she was found unresponsive in her bed. She should have had in-person checks every 15 minutes, but it was common practice among some staff to use a video camera to check on her, the PFD report said. Concluding Mias inquest, coroner Dr Karen Henderson, who also investigated Connors death, said the lack of a robust and adhered-to care plan for night observations mirrored the same concerns she raised about Connors death. The Independent has found that TCT reported a serious incident to the Charity Commission in August 2022 over its finances. The Charity Commission describes serious incidents as events or issues that could harm the charitys beneficiaries, staff or volunteers or result in a loss of the charitys money or assets, damage its property or harm an organisations reputation. Leaders later approved a financial recovery plan which aimed to reduce staffing costs at the charity, which has multiple executives earning six-figure salaries. Its annual report for 2022-23 said the trust had made significant headway on two key objectives reducing expenditure and increasing income, adding: Regrettably, with staff costs representing 80 per cent of total expenditure, we had to undertake an organisational restructuring which was completed in May 2023. Raihana died in June 2023, and Mia died three months later, in September. The report added that overall staff numbers were cut by 15 per cent, which reduced the total staffing budget by 3.7m. Mia Gauci-Lamport died in September 2023 (Paige Gauci-Lamport) It added that it would remain focused on minimising staff costs (including temporary agency workers and recruitment fees) and maintaining a leaner workforce going forward. TCT told The Independent it had stabilised its finances following a financial crisis in 2022, and that it was a different organisation now compared to the years in which Connor, Mia and Raihana died. It admitted that, at that time, financial pressures had threatened the future of TCT. It added that, following Raihanas death, it had made significant changes to its monitoring and observation policy and has introduced a flexible floating staff role available 24 hours a day, which ensures additional support can be provided. It added: The lack of sufficient staff on the unit where Raihana lived was not due to cuts in staffing levels to aid financial recovery. Staffing levels were in place, which allowed us to be compliant with our policy and meet our contractual agreements around 1:1 care at that time. TCT said it has also since changed its policy on monitoring patients, which it says ensures practices are clear, consistent and personalised to meet each childs needs. It said the organisation now requires every staff member allocated to provide one-to-one care to formally sign a document at the start of their shift to confirm their understanding of the individuals care, monitoring and observation needs. Responding to the coroners concerns over Raihanas death, the trust said it was in the process of creating a new staffing model aligned with national standards. Mike Thiedke, chief executive of TCT, said: The board and my executive team remain committed to ensuring the highest standards of care for all children and young people at The Childrens Trust. Through collaboration with our NHS and wider system partners, continuous engagement with stakeholders, children and families, and a strong focus on improving clinical governance, we are confident that the changes we have made are resulting in tangible improvements to the care we provide. Ukraine is fighting for the same values as the Allies did in the Second World War, Sir Keir Starmer has said ahead of a summit in Alaska that could see an end to the conflict against Russia. The Prime Minister addressed a reception, including veterans, to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, which marked the Allies defeat of Japan. Speaking in Downing Street, Sir Keir said: I sat on this terrace this very morning with President (Volodymyr) Zelensky, who is fighting for the same values as we were fighting for. And so when we say never forget, we must pass on the stories of those who have gone before us. It came as US President Donald Trump suggested European leaders could be invited to a second meeting if the summit is successful, which could pave the way to peace in the war between Russia and Ukraine. Mr Trump will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday at the summit which could see the drawing up of peace terms for Ukraine. Mr Trump and Sir Keir have spoken optimistically about a potential ceasefire, including at a virtual meeting of Ukrainian allies on Wednesday. US President Donald Trump suggested European leaders could be invited to a second meeting if the summit goes well (Alex Brandon/AP) Leaders of the European-led coalition of the willing could then join talks between Mr Trump, Mr Putin and Ukrainian leader Mr Zelensky to end the war. The possibility was raised by Mr Trump in the White House on Thursday, before he flew to Anchorage where he will meet Mr Putin. He said: We have a meeting with President (Vladimir) Putin tomorrow, I think its going to be a good meeting. But the more important meeting will be the second meeting that were having. Were going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe well bring some of the European leaders along. Maybe not. The PA news agency understands that Sir Keir will attend a meeting if he is invited. He has been a central player in the coalition group which also includes French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Mr Trump added: I think President Putin will make peace. I think President Zelensky will make peace. Well see if they can get along. And if they can it will be great. The head of the British armed forces, Sir Tony Radakin, said the West should not be cowed by Mr Putin and praised the strength of Britain and Nato. Writing in the Telegraph on the anniversary of VJ Day, he said: Putin doesnt want a war with Nato because he would lose. So we should not be cowed by his rhetoric or his campaign of sabotage, outrageous as it may be. The one weapon that is most needed in our arsenal is confidence. Despite the global instability, Britain is secure at home. Nato is strong. Russia is weak. It is not complacent to point this out. Sir Keir met Mr Zelensky in Downing Street on Thursday. They both said there was strong resolve for peace in Ukraine. The two leaders embraced as the red carpet was rolled out for Mr Zelenskys arrival in Downing Street, and they later discussed the conflict. They expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about ending the war, a Downing Street statement said. In a separate statement, Mr Zelensky said there had been discussions about the security guarantees required to make any deal truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killing. But concerns linger over the prospect of Kyiv being excluded from negotiations over its own future, and pressured to cede territory, after Mr Trump suggested any agreement may need to involve swapping of land. Many amputees in Ukraine will have been subject to compulsory conscription - Matthew Hatcher/ED/Getty Images With complex negotiations to end the Russo Ukrainian stalemate now underway, one of the few things which can be said with certainty is that both sides will carry the legacy of conflict for decades to come, physically represented by the huge numbers of limbless former soldiers. Estimates of the number of Ukrainian amputees vary widely a commonly accepted median figure is approximately 40,000. To put that number in context, it is roughly similar to the number of British servicemen who lost limbs in the First World War. As the population of Britain in 1914 stood at just 40 million the proportionate loss is also comparable, as is the similar ratio of amputees to population in the American Civil War the first large scale conflict of the industrial age. Such an ongoing burden of injury has not been seen in modern times although Gaza may provide competition where an estimated 4,700 have lost limbs from a population of 2.3 million. For comparison, the total number of British amputees in the Second World War was approximately 12,000. And just over 5,000 Americans lost limbs in Vietnam. It shouldnt need saying, but the challenges facing Ukrainian society in adapting to this burden of injury are immense. First there are the follow up surgical costs to consider. It is common for initial amputations carried out in field hospitals to require revision surgery to achieve a residual limb capable of accepting a prosthetic limb. Using a rough estimate of $50,000 to rehabilitate one patient, suggests an estimated cost of $2 billion for the initial phase of treatment, not taking into account substantial ongoing costs for prosthetics replacement over time. Yet the socio-economic arguments in favour of providing high quality rehabilitation for wounded speak for themselves. Failure to reintegrate wounded servicemen back into the workforce and wider society risks creating a generation prone to depression and substance abuse, to say nothing of the wasted potential of productive lives. The principles of rehabilitation have not changed greatly since the First World War. Sport is a common means of combining physiotherapy and psychological group support as was well known to the patients of Roehampton Hospital in 1917 as to modern day participants in the Invictus games. Similarly, the requirements of war accelerate technological change in many areas including rehabilitation. The astonishing advances in bionic limbs driven by the needs of amputees from conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are a contemporary example. These devices are of particular significance in cases of very short amputation limbs not capable of accommodating standard prosthetics. Significant technical advances in prosthetic design first occurred after the America Civil war. With typical entrepreneurial zeal, prosthetic manufacturers Franklin Palmer and Amasa Marks made considerable fortunes linked to astute marketing and political lobbying. In Britain in the wake of the First World War, the lightweight Desouter prosthesis, made of the alloy duralumin instead of wood, was eventually provided free to limbless ex-servicemen after substantial political pressure. Duty to provide high quality care The political dimension of rehabilitation services in Ukraine needs urgent consideration. Simply put, the citizen soldiers of Ukraine will reasonably consider that the country has a moral obligation to mitigate the consequences of their sacrifice, especially as many amputees will have been subject to compulsory conscription. The unintended adverse consequences of battlefield tourniquet misuse highlighted recently in this newspaper will rightly add to political pressure on the Ukrainian state to provide high quality care for their veterans. The political power of a mobilised veteran community in democratic states has been clearly demonstrated after most major conflicts. The ability to organise and advertise this potent message is amplified in the information age. Some of the financial obligation will undoubtedly be transmitted to other European nations as the reconstruction phase commences. Ukraines allies should help it to plan for it now. The geopolitical payoff for the financial cost may lie in the juxtaposition between how Ukrainian and Russian war wounded are looked after once the fighting stops. The number of Russian amputees is also unknown, but it is reasonable to assume it is on a similar scale to that of Ukraine. Open sources have noted significant activity in production of Russian prostheses and wheelchairs and reports in the Russian press have highlighted complaints about the availability and quality of support for disabled soldiers. It is widely accepted that the discontent of Soviet veterans of the Afghanistan conflict contributed to the disintegration of the Soviet Union. In the battle of ideas that underlie most wars, the most persuasive political argument for supporting rehabilitation in Ukraine may be by viewing it as an opportunity to demonstrate the difference between Western democratic values compared with those of autocratic governments. Effective physical and psychological rehabilitation graphically demonstrates what this war is fundamentally about the nature of the relationship between citizen and state, for good or bad. Dr Eddie Chaloner is a Consultant Vascular Surgeon practising in the UK; Shehan Hettiaratchy is Londons Major Trauma Director, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, for Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Germany plans to fund a $500m package of military equipment and munitions for Ukraine sourced from the US, Nato said on Wednesday. Alliance chief Mark Rutte commended Germany for the decision, saying: This delivery will help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression. Germanys foreign and defence ministries said the support was focused on equipment such as critical air defence capabilities against Russian airstrikes that were killing more and more civilians throughout Ukraine. The Netherlands and Sweden have also pledged major contributions. Germanys move came as Donald Trump said there would be very severe consequences if Vladimir Putin did not agree to stop his war in Ukraine after the summit between the US and Russian presidents in Alaska this Friday. The US presidents 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. He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front, Zelenskyy said, amid a sharp thrust from Russian forces into eastern Ukraine in recent days. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine, he said. German chancellor Friedrich Merz said the leaders had a constructive and good discussion with Trump. Keir Starmer is to welcome Zelenskyy to London on Thursday, the British prime ministers office has said. On Wednesday, the prime minister said there was now a viable chance for a Ukraine ceasefire, and that Ukraines 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 havent got anywhere near ... a viable way of bringing it to a ceasefire, Starmer told the European meeting. Now we do have that chance, because of the work that the [US] president has put in. Trump suggested he would push for a second summit if his meeting with Putin went well this time including Zelenskyy, reports Patrick Wintour. If the first one goes OK, well have a quick second one, Trump told reporters in Washington. 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. Trumps remarks followed what he described as a very good call with the European leaders in which he consulted about the goal and strategy for his summit. He pleased Europes leadership by giving reassurances that a ceasefire was his priority and he would not make any territorial concessions without Kyivs full involvement. Russia wants to include the topic of a reduction in Nato troops presence in any conversations about the future of Ukraine, the Polish prime minister said. Donald Tusk told reporters on Wednesday: That is why it is so important that we build such a strong and united group of states, both in relation to Russia but also in relation to other allies, like the United States. Fallen debris from Ukrainian drones caused a fire at an oil refinery in the Russian city of Volgograd, the governor said on Thursday. Firefighters quickly began extinguishing the fire, Andrey Bocharov, the governor, said on Telegram. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties. Russias defence ministry said air defence systems had intercepted and destroyed 44 Ukrainian drones overnight, including nine over the Volgograd region. For Ukrainians, the spectacle of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump meeting in Alaska will be repugnant. The man behind an unprovoked invasion of their country is being honoured with a return to the world stage by the leader of a country that was meant to be their ally. And they feel let down. Follow latest updates from Ukraine war President Trump had threatened severe sanctions on Russia within 50 days if Russia didn't agree to a deal. He had seemed close to imposing them before letting Putin wriggle off the hook yet again. But they are not surprised. At every stage, Trump has either sided with Russia or at least given them the benefit of the doubt. It is clear that Putin has some kind of hold over this American president, in their minds and many others. Ukraine wants three things out of these talks. A ceasefire, security guarantees and reparations. It is not clear at this stage that they will get any of them. Ukrainians and their European allies are appalled at the naive and cack-handed diplomacy that has preceded this meeting. Vladimir Putin is sending a team of foreign affairs heavyweights, adept at getting the better of opponents in negotiations. There are, the Financial Times reported this week, no Russia specialists left at the Trump White House. Instead, Trump is relying on Steve Witkoff, a real estate lawyer and foreign policy novice, who has demonstrated a haphazard mastery of his brief and breathtaking credulity with the Russians. Former British spy chief Sir Alex Younger described him today as totally out of his depth. Trump, he says, is being played like a fiddle by Putin. Read more: What could Ukraine be asked to give up? What to expect from pivotal Ukraine summit There is a fundamental misunderstanding of the conflict at the heart of the Trump administration's handling of it. Witkoff and the president see it in terms of real estate. But it has never been about territory. Vladimir Putin has made it abundantly clear that Ukraine's existence as a sovereign democratic entity cannot be tolerated. He has made no pretence that his views on that have changed. Ukrainians know that and fear any deal cooked up in Alaska will be used by Putin on the path towards that ultimate goal. Max Hollingsbee pleaded guilty to some 42 charges with 14 victims identified (Police Service of Northern Ireland/PA Wire) A victim of prolific catfish offender Max Hollingsbee has said she will always be angry that he stole her innocence. A complaint made by Immy (not her real name) led police to discover a litany of sex offences against other teenage girls committed by Hollingsbee. Immy has said she now wants to use her experiences to help other victims. Hollingsbee, 21, of Orient Circle, Lurgan, was sentenced in May to five years and two months after admitting scores of child sexual abuse crimes against girls. He had pleaded guilty to some 42 charges with 14 victims identified. Immy, from the Surrey area, was 15 when she met Hollingsbee, who was using a fake profile, through the Wizz app three years ago. She said: He presented himself as being 16 and male. There were photographs which I know now werent him. At the time I didnt see anything wrong with it. I thought you could only talk to people within a certain age range and you had to prove your age. We just had normal conversations. I was quite vulnerable at the time. It is an age where you want boys to like you, you want them to show interest in you. He was and he made me feel special, he made me feel seen. Now I now it was all part of his plan. She added: Once he had built up the trust I added him on my Snapchat. He started with more compliments, flattery, things like that. At 15 years old that is all a girl wants to hear. He knew that and he definitely played on that vulnerability. Immy said the pair communicated via Snapchat (Getty) The situation escalated quickly with Hollingsbee demanding that Immy send him explicit photographs. She said: He would give me very specific instructions. I didnt like it but I didnt know how to say no. I wasnt confident enough to say no. I didnt want him to stop talking to me and I didnt want him to stop giving me that attention. I did send photos. I obviously regret that but Ive never been made to feel embarrassed and Ive never been made to feel that it was my fault. Hollingsbee then attempted to blackmail the teenager, stating he would share the photographs with other people she knew if she did not send more. He did share the images with one of Immys female friends. At this point she told her mother what was happening. She said: That was very scary for me. I was in such a state of panic it was like I blacked out, I was there and I was talking to my mum but Ive no idea what I said to her. I showed her what was going on and just remember crying in a ball on the floor of her room. Once police were alerted, Hollingsbee was arrested in Northern Ireland and his devices seized, leading to the discovery of the other victims. Thousands of photos and videos of underage girls performing sexual acts were found on his devices, obtained by blackmail or by hacking their social media accounts. Immy also helped police to track him down. He had given her his phone number and she used to BeReal app to discover his true profile and name. Immy said: Finding out there were so many other girls who hadnt said anything was the most gut-wrenching feeling in the entire world because I couldnt imagine not being able to tell someone. That was the hardest part, they were sitting at home so scared, so terrified and I knew how they felt because I had been there. Knowing they were so scared on their own was the worst feeling. Quite a few of them were younger than me. Immy used the BeReal app to discover Hollingsbees true profile and name (Getty Images/iStockphoto) She added: I am angry, I will always be angry at him for doing that to me and taking my innocence away from me. That is what he did. He played on my vulnerability, played on my weaknesses. I was so used and no 15-year-old should ever have to deal with a man like that ever. Kids do make mistakes. It is important I am able to talk about it because they need someone their age to say it could happen to you. It can happen. If you dont feel you have got the support at home, the police will take action. They did everything they way I hoped they would. Immy said she hopes Hollingsbee is able to confront the impact of his actions when he is released from prison. She said: I would be happy knowing that he sees the wrong he did. I have made a lot of effort to not let it change my outlook about people. Not everyone is like that, he is a very specific type of person. But it did take a big toll, I am not as trusting as I used to be. But I have stopped a lot of people, I hope, from having to deal with him. Immy is hoping to study psychology at university and to use her experiences to help other victims. She said: I want to be able to go into schools and work with kids, using my experience to make something good. I think it is so important that I make something good out of a bad situation. I am hoping I will be able to make a difference. Sean Charles Dunn appears to approach officers while holding a sandwich A man who threw a sandwich at a border agent in Washington DC has been fired by the US attorney general after being identified as a justice department employee. Sean Charles Dunn was arrested and charged with assault after allegedly hurling a wrapped Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer on Sunday. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Washington DC accusing Donald Trump of seeking to institute martial law after the president took federal control of the citys police force and deployed 800 National Guard officers this week. He has also flooded the streets with hundreds of federal agents from agencies including CBP, FBI and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Footage posted on social media shows the man later named as Mr Dunn standing face-to-face with officers, wearing a pink shirt and shorts with a wrapped sandwich in his hand. He then throws the sandwich into the chest of an agent, before fleeing down the street as he is pursued by several officers. The footage does not capture his arrest. DC man charged with felony assault charges after assaulting a federal agent with a Subway sandwich pic.twitter.com/0ZOyfkEQgF Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) August 14, 2025 Mr Dunn, 37, of Washington, was an international affairs specialist in the justice departments criminal division, according to an official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel matter. Pam Bondi, the US attorney general, commented on the assault saying: This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ. You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement. According to court documents filed on Wednesday, Mr Dunn approached law enforcement officers on 14th and U Street in North West Washington, shouting obscenities and calling them fascists. Sean Charles Dunn (left) is arrested after allegedly hurling a wrapped Subway sandwich at an officer - Andrew Leyden/2025 Getty Images Shortly after 11pm, he is alleged to have thrown a sandwich at one of the officers, before being arrested and charged assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States. Mr Dunn is said to have admitted to one of his arresting officers: I did it. I threw a sandwich. Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia and a former Fox News host, announced on social media on Wednesday that he had been charged with assaulting an officer. An individual went up to one of the federal law enforcement officers and started jumping up and down and screaming at him berating him yelling at him, she claimed in a video posted on X. Then he took a subway sandwich and took it and threw it at the officer. He thought it was funny. Well he doesnt think its funny today, because we charged him with a felony assault on a police officer, and were going to back the police to the hilt. So there stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else. Mr Dunn appears to hurl the sandwich at a border agent Protests broke out around 14th Street on Wednesday night after law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint, with demonstrators shouting: Go home, fascists and Get off our streets. Some stood in front of the checkpoint and urged drivers to turn back. Mr Trump said on Wednesday he would seek to extend his control of DCs police force, which is currently being commanded by Ms Bondi, beyond the 30-day limit set out in law. Doing so would require backing from Congress, where the president said he expected Republicans to approve this pretty much unanimously. On Thursday, DC police announced plans to establish a juvenile curfew area in the south east of the city, where under-18s will be banned from gathering in groups of nine or more between 11pm and 6am from Friday to Monday. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said law enforcement had made 49 arrests in Washington on Wednesday night and removed 29 illegal immigrants. Sir Tony Radakin has cautioned the West against submitting to Putins demands (PA) The West must not be intimidated by Vladimir Putin, says the head of the British armed forces, ahead a crucial meeting between the Russian leader and US President Donald Trump. Mr Trump says he believes Putin is ready to make a deal to end Russias war with Ukraine when the two leaders meet in Anchorage in Alaska on Friday. It is set to be followed by a second meeting involving Volodymyr Zelensky, which could also be attended by European leaders, Mr Trump suggested on Thursday night. But writing for The Telegraph, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin warned Nato allies against submitting to Moscows demands, and said: Putin doesnt want a war with Nato because he would lose. So we should not be cowed by his rhetoric or his campaign of sabotage, outrageous as it may be. Donald Trump has said that Putin would not mess him around (Alex Brandon/AP) (AP) During a press conference on Thursday at the White House, Mr Trump said that Putin is not going to mess around with me, and said he believed that both the Russian leader and Volodymyr Zelensky would reach a peace deal. Speaking in the Oval Office, he said: I want to set the table for the next meeting. Id like to see it happen very quickly. Were going to find out where everyone stands. If its a bad meeting, it will end very quickly, and if its a good meeting, we will end up having peace in the very near future. He also floated the idea that European leaders could be invited to the second meeting, and reiterated that he would know in the first two minutes if a deal could be achieved. Ukrainian president Zelensky and his European counterparts, such as Sir Keir Starmer and Frances Emmanuel Macron, have been sidelined from Fridays summit. Writing to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Sir Tony said that Nato allies must be assertive in every domain nuclear, land, sea, air, cyber and space as well as in the diplomatic and economic arenas. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met on Thursday (Ben Stansall/PA) (PA Wire) He added: The one weapon that is most needed in our arsenal is confidence. Despite the global instability, Britain is secure at home. Nato is strong. Russia is weak. It is not complacent to point this out. In a separate statement, Mr Zelensky said there had been discussions about the security guarantees required to make any deal truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killing. But concerns linger over the prospect of Kyiv being excluded from negotiations over its own future, and pressured to cede territory, after Mr Trump suggested any agreement may need to involve swapping of land. Ukraine has already rejected any proposal that would compromise its borders. On Thursday, Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky met at Downing Street, where they said there was strong resolve for peace in Ukraine. The two leaders embraced as the red carpet was rolled out for Mr Zelenskys arrival in Downing Street, and they later had breakfast. They expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about ending the war, a Downing Street statement said. The council said it had contacted 25 funeral directors before introducing the measure, with only one of them posing an objection. Photograph: Jack Sullivan/Alamy Residents of Wolverhampton have criticised what is being called a fat tax on burial plots after a city cemetery imposed a premium on wider graves. Danescourt cemetery in Tettenhall will charge an extra 20% to families whose loved ones need a 6ft-wide plot, as opposed to a standard 5ft grave. Wolverhampton council said the price premium was in response to an increase in obesity levels in the city, where a third of people are obese, compared with the national average of just over a quarter. The council said it had contacted 25 funeral directors before introducing the measure, with only one of them posing an objection. The funeral director Ross Hickton told the BBC the charge was a fat tax and that it was not really acceptable or fair. He said: You know people have paid into the system their entire life, paid their council tax to Wolverhampton council, and for them to be told [the grave is] 20% more because of the size of their loved one, its not really acceptable or fair. Matthew Crawley, the chief executive at the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management, said the charge seemed reasonable. You have a finite amount of space to work with; therefore if you need to eat into a grave next door, say, then that needs to be accounted for, he said. You also have to account for the idea that digging the grave itself will also need extra equipment to keep it safe. The costs, the council said, reflected the increased costs incurred in providing [wider graves], including disposing of the additional soil. Many other local councils, including Birmingham and Walsall, charge higher fees for larger graves, it said. Across the UK, the picture is mixed. A survey by the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors of its members found a quarter of local authorities charged extra for wider burial plots. There was also a concern in Wolverhampton for couples who wanted to be buried together, but where one was already buried in a standard plot while the other needed to be buried in a larger grave. At Danescourt, the council said, while space allows, [families] will still be able to choose to place larger coffins at the end of existing rows at no extra cost. But otherwise, the council told a funeral director in an email seen by the BBC, the family would have to consider burying the bariatric partner elsewhere, purchasing a second grave or exhuming the first partner to ensure they can be buried together. The owner of a London tanning salon has described how a customer ran out into the street naked after a sunbed exploded. A fire broke out at Anias Tanning and Beauty on Wood Green High Street just after 2.50pm yesterday. Footage shows thick black smoke billowing out of the shop, as customers and staff run for cover. Three people were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, London Fire Brigade said. The salons owner, Ragu Nad, visited the scene on Thursday to assess the damage, saying the business could be closed for weeks. He told Metro that a regular customer of the salon, a bus driver, heard a cackling sound coming from his sunbed which was in a booth. He got off to investigate the noise and quickly got dressed before it became serious. Smoke started to come out and there was this explosion, Mr Nad said, The man managed to warn staff who ran out along with another lady, who at this stage didnt have time to get dressed. Mr Nad told the newspaper the woman was naked when she ran out of the store, explaining she had no choice as there was no time for her to put on her clothes. He said staff helped to cover her up when she got outside and expressed his gratitude that no one was injured in the fire. The owner put it down to the bus drivers quick thinking that saved lives. Everyone was shaken up, but bizarrely the lady who was naked was not phased by it all and asked me when I thought I would be able to reopen so she could top up her tan, Mr Nad added. Mr Nad has had the business for 20 years and said the extent of the damage could force him to close for weeks. A new sunbed, he said, can cost 20,000. A spokesperson for London Fire Brigade said: Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a fire at a tanning salon on High Road in Wood Green. Most of the ground floor salon was damaged by fire. Three people were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews after suffering from smoke inhalation. The Brigades Control Officers took the first of 11 calls to the fire at 1452 and mobilised crews from Hornsey, Stoke Newington, Edmonton and Holloway fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 1605. The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the failure of a cooling fan for a sunbed. Collage of tomato dishes against red background Tomatoes are one of the world's most beloved foods. In the U.S., they are enjoyed by more than three-quarters of the population, according to YouGov. It's hardly surprising. There is much to love about tomatoes, which are botanically a fruit but treated like a vegetable in the nutrition and culinary spheres. They're juicy, subtly sweet, aromatic, and they can bring a rich flavor to many different dishes. They're also packed with goodness, as they're a source of nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, potassium, as well as the potent antioxidant lycopene. Around the world, many cultures have made great use of tomatoes. Italy and Spain are both home to a number of tomato-rich recipes. But northern India, Morocco, Greece, and Southeast Asia have also created some flavorful, tomato-heavy traditional dishes. Think masala, for example, which forms the basis of many Indian curries. You can learn more about it here and discover many other delicious tomato dishes from around the globe. Read more: 15 Vintage Pie Flavors No One Remembers Anymore Bruschetta - Italy Bruschetta with tomatoes and basil on a black plate - Emanuel Stanciu / 500px/Getty Images Italian cuisine is so tomato-heavy, you might assume that the fruit is native to the European country. But actually, tomatoes didn't arrive in Italy until around the 1500s. Two centuries later, Neapolitans started to top the flatbread with tomatoes, and that's why we have pizza (more on that shortly). But pizza, of course, isn't the only Italian dish that's laden with the fruit. Lasagna, spaghetti al pomodoro, and Caprese salad are all tomato-centered dishes, but don't forget bruschetta as the ultimate tomato-heavy classic. Bruschetta is incredibly simple. It's just toasted bread rubbed with garlic and topped with cold fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and salt. The dish likely originated in Tuscany, but today it's served in restaurants across Italy (and beyond). There are infinite ways to adapt bruschetta. Some prefer roasted tomatoes, but there are many other tips for making bruschetta, such as incorporating ricotta, basil, or anchovies. Bruschetta recipes also tend to vary from region to region. For example, in Piedmont, it is often served topped with a single slice of tomato and grapes. Onion Tomato Masala - India Mirrored image of paneer masala on an outdoor table - Your Food Lab / Instagram Tomatoes are a staple in Indian cooking, but again, they didn't actually arrive in the country until the 1600s, when they were brought over by the Portuguese. Much like in Italy, tomatoes didn't take off instantly. It wasn't until the 1800s, amid colonization by the British (who were really into their tomatoes), that the fruit started to show up in Indian recipes. Today, North Indian dishes are particularly tomato-rich. Many are built on onion tomato masala, which is a rich, thick sauce, full of tomato flavor. It's incredibly versatile and can be mixed with coconut cream, chili peppers, and a wide variety of spices to create different flavor profiles. Punjabi fish masala, for example, is made with an onion tomato masala base, and you can also use the sauce to make aloo paneer curry, paneer tikka masala, or curried red lentils. Other Indian tomato-rich dishes include ruangan chaman, a Kashmiri recipe that combines paneer and tomato gravy, and the Sindhi favorite tamatar ji kadhi, which combines tomato puree with vegetables like okra, green peas, and lotus stem. Fried Green Tomatoes - United States A plate stacked with fried green tomatoes with fresh green tomatoes in the back - Stephaniefrey/Getty Images Fried green tomatoes are a Southern U.S. favorite. The dish, which many associate with the 1991 movie "Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe," is pretty much exactly what it sounds like -- green, unripe tomatoes, which are tarter and tangier than ripe tomatoes, are sliced, breaded, battered and then fried. The dish can be served in many different ways; some opt for remoulade on the side, while others stack them in a sandwich or a burger bun. Fried green tomatoes have an interesting history. They're a Southern staple now, but they likely entered the U.S. with Jewish immigrants. In fact, there are a lot of recipes for fried green tomatoes in 19th and 20th century Jewish and Midwestern cookbooks. This makes sense: In colder parts of the U.S., tomato-growing season was considerably shorter, and therefore people were more likely to eat the fruit before it was ripe. It turns out, it was likely the 1991 movie that turned fried green tomatoes into a Southern thing. Since then, it's been served in cafes and diners across the South, where it's become a firm menu staple. Pico De Gallo - Mexico A bowl of pico de gallo in a colorful bowl on a wooden table - Sophie_Marie/Shutterstock Tomatoes have a long history in Mexico. In fact, it was probably the first place to domesticate the fruit, which used to grow wild across the Andes. This is why tomatoes are called tomatoes -- the name comes from the Aztec word "tomatl." With this history in mind, it's no surprise that tomatoes show up in a lot of Mexican dishes, including pico de gallo. Pico de gallo, which has Aztec roots, is essentially a chunky salsa side dish. Tomatoes are a key ingredient, of course, but the dish also relies on ingredients like onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice. The juice of the tomato is essential for the dish's marinade, as it works together with the lime to bring out that signature tangy flavor. Pico de gallo is fresh, zesty, and usually served with classic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and nachos. One of the most fascinating things is how pico de gallo got its name. Strangely, even though it is an entirely plant-based dish, pico de gallo translates to "rooster's beak." One theory is that this likely comes from the traditional way of eating this salsa dish, which is with the thumb and forefinger (like a beak!). Brazilian Vinaigrette - Brazil Brazilian vinaigrette in a dish surrounded by vegetables - Bernardo Emanuelle/Shutterstock Like many South American countries, Brazil has a long history with tomatoes, and the fruit is still very important to the country. Today, Brazil is one of the biggest tomato producers in the whole region, alongside Argentina and Chile. In 2023, it produced more than 4.1 million tonnes of tomatoes, per World Population Review, making it the eight biggest tomato producer in the world. One of the most popular tomato salad dishes in the country is Brazilian vinaigrette. You'll usually find it served alongside grilled meat at barbecues and on most steakhouse menus. Though it sounds like a salad dressing, this vinaigrette is actually a chunky salsa that is very similar to pico de gallo. It's made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. But one of the key differences is that Brazilian vinaigrette is made with vinegar instead of limes. It's also usually made with bell peppers, not jalapenos. For that reason, it's not a spicy dish, but has more of a fresh and tangy flavor profile. Pizza Marinara - Italy Top view of a a whole pizza marinara pie on table with cutlery - Funky-data/Getty Images The people of Naples were the first to start topping flatbread with tomatoes. The dish wasn't just tasty, but it was quick, easy, and affordable, especially for the city's large deprived population. Tomatoes were easily accessible and cheap to buy in the city. This was the very first version of pizza, and it's still eaten across Italy today, but it's particularly popular in its birthplace of Naples. Of course, there are many, many different types of pizza in Italy now, most of which are topped with tomato sauce. But today, pizza marinara, usually loaded with rich, fresh San Marzano tomatoes, is still one of the cheapest street food dishes you can buy in Naples. For a taste of true authentic marinara, a visit to Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba is a must. It's likely the oldest pizzeria in the world, and sells classic marinaras for just 6 a pie. Taktouka - Morocco Taktouka in a plate on green spotty tea towel with bread - Sergii Koval/Shutterstock Tomatoes landed in Africa as a direct result of European colonization. However, you could be forgiven for thinking they're native to the continent as many traditional dishes are made with tomatoes. In Nigeria, for example, red stew (which gets its color from tomatoes) is a favorite in many households, while the popular shakshuka is beloved for the combination of chunky tomatoes, peppers, spices, and eggs. But right now, we're looking at taktouka, a popular North African warm salad from Morocco. Taktouka is very similar to shakshuka. It's made with fresh tomatoes, as well as onions, garlic, and olive oil, but one key characteristic of taktouka is that it's made with charred green peppers. The dish is usually stewed to get maximum flavor, which is just the right mix of garlicky, spicy (thanks to the red chili flakes), and smoky (thanks to the paprika). Taktouka is often served as an appetizer, but you can enjoy it in many different ways. It would make for a tasty lunch when served with pita or crusty bread, or you can always grab some chips and start dipping. Arroz De Tomate - Portugal Mirrored image dish of Arroz de tomate - A Family Feast / Facebook Portugal started to embrace tomatoes at some point after they were brought back from the Americas around the 16th century, after they were confirmed as safe to eat (people were initially concerned they might be a toxic nightshade vegetable). Since then, the fruit has been a staple of Portuguese cuisine. In fact, some estimate that tomatoes are included in most Portuguese stews. There is much competition, but arroz de tomate remains one of the most culturally significant tomato dishes in Portugal. Across the country, you'll find it served with everything from fish to chicken or simply topped with a fried egg. Arroz de tomate translates, quite simply, to tomato rice. And true to its name, the Portuguese classic is incredibly refined. It's a mixture of fresh tomatoes and rice (of course), as well as stock, chili flakes, parsley, olive oil, garlic, and onions. All of these ingredients are simmered together in a pan to create an aromatic, light, slightly sweet dish that's bursting with flavor. Dakos - Greece Mirrored image of Cretan dakos on a white plate - Kouzounas Kitchen / Facebook Interestingly, while many Greek dishes are made with tomatoes, the fruit wasn't introduced to the country until the early 19th century. The story goes that some monks in Plaka were the first to start growing tomatoes in their monastery, and they were closely followed by people in Athens. From there, the tomato became a Greek favorite, forming the basis of many traditional dishes, like dakos. If you like bruschetta, the chances are very high that you'll enjoy dakos. The dish, which comes from the Greek island of Crete, is a mixture of tomatoes and feta served over a barley rusk (a Cretan favorite made with double-baked barley bread). The tomatoes, which are usually combined with other Mediterranean ingredient classics like olive oil and capers, should always be fresh from the vine for the best, sweetest flavor. Most Greeks eat dakos on its own like bruschetta, but it can also be served as a side dish alongside other classic Greek dishes like souvlaki. Some opt to crumble the bread and mix it with the tomatoes, olives, onions, and cheese. Hogao - Colombia Hogao from Colombia being stirred in a pan - Anamaria Mejia/Shutterstock Unsurprisingly, many South American countries have their renditions of tasty tomato sauces and salads. Alongside Brazilian vinaigrette, there's Chilean pebre, a salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, scallions, garlic, and cilantro, and Bolivian Ilajwa, which combines tomatoes with red onions, spicy locoto peppers, and quillquina. And then there's hogao, which is one of the most versatile and common cooking sauces in Colombia. Hogao has likely been around for a very, very long time, as it's a blend of both indigenous cooking techniques and Spanish ingredients. Basically a mix of tomatoes, onions, scallions, and spices, which are chopped and fried together in oil. This simplicity means it is endlessly customizable. It can be used as a base for stews, as a dipping sauce, or as a topping for arepas. Whichever Colombian dish you fancy, it's likely it will pair well with hogao. Sambal Tomat - Indonesia Sambal tomat in a green bowl on a wooden table - Acrams/Shutterstock If you've ever been to Southeast Asia or eaten in a Southeast Asian restaurant, you've likely come across sambal. The sauce, which is essentially just pureed or ground chili peppers, is used in countless recipes across the region. In Malaysia, for example, sambal telur consists of sambal and boiled eggs. In Singapore, sambal is often served with hawker-style noodles or laksa. And one of the favorites in Indonesia is sambal tomat, which, as you may have guessed, is sambal with tomatoes. Like many of the tomato dishes on this list, sambal tomat is incredibly simple but still rich and aromatic. Often served with nasi goreng to add extra spicy, zingy flavor, it's a mixture of hot red or green chili peppers, garlic, shallots, salt, lime or lemon, and lots of tomatoes. But the sauce is versatile, you can keep it plant-based, or combine it with anchovies or shrimps. Besides nasi goreng, you can eat sambal tomat with a range of dishes. Some enjoy it with white rice and salted fish, while others opt to combine it with raw vegetables or fried tempeh. You can also make tasty fusion dishes with sambal tomat. It works beautifully in place of marinara with spaghetti, for example. Fan Qie Chao Dan - China Mirrored image of Fan qie chao dan on blue plate - joycelynshu / Instagram Due to Spanish colonization, the Philippines was the first country in Asia to become familiar with tomatoes. The fruit soon spread across the region, and around a century ago, they started to appear in Chinese dishes. Unlike in Europe, tomatoes still aren't a frequent occurrence in Chinese cuisine, but there are some Chinese tomato-centered dishes. One example is fan qie chao dan, which is basically a stir fry with tomatoes and eggs. The tomatoes are wok-fried with scrambled eggs and eaten for breakfast with rice. It's a comforting and nourishing dish, usually enjoyed shared with family. It's also infinitely customizable, and many people have their own versions of fan qie chao dan. It can be made with scallions, while Shaoxing wine is sometimes added to provide some umami. In China, it's not unusual to combine tomatoes with eggs. Another example of a traditional dish is the tomato egg drop soup, which is often served in the summer months when tomatoes are in season. Tomatokeftedes - Greece Tomatokeftedes on plate with dip and lemon wedge surrounded by tomatoes and basil - DronG/Shutterstock Crete isn't alone. Another Greek island to produce a delicious tomato-based dish is Santorini, which is known for tomatokeftedes. To put it simply, these are fried tomato fritters, but it's nothing like fried green tomatoes. Traditional tomatokeftedes recipes also call for onions, eggs, herbs, and feta cheese, which are mixed in with the tomatoes, shaped into fritters, and then fried until crispy. Tomatokeftedes are traditionally enjoyed as a simple appetizer or as part of a larger meze board, alongside other Greek and Mediterranean favorites like hummus, tzatziki, and taramasalata. But you can also enjoy them on their own as a snack, perhaps with a glass of cloudy ouzo. Want more Greek tomato recipe ideas? The country is also known for gemista, consisting of tomatoes stuffed with herbs, rice, nuts, olives, and feta, but you can also try ntomatosalata, a simple tomato salad made with onions, salt, olive oil, and oregano. Ratatouille - France Bbaking dish with ratatouille on a wooden board placed on the counter - Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock Like many European cuisines, French food is pretty tomato-heavy, and packed with dishes such as tomates farcies, a Provencal recipe for stuffed tomatoes, or tomato veloute soup. But ratatouille is one of the most iconic tomato-packed recipes. The dish was made world-famous by Pixar, but it has been eaten in Provencal regions for centuries. In fact, it was likely eaten in the countryside, where many fresh fruit and vegetables were farmed, as far back as the 1700s. Ratatouille is incredibly simple. It's basically a stew filled with tomatoes and sauteed vegetables, like eggplant and peppers. Much of the flavor comes from the tomatoes and the combination of various herbs, like basil and thyme, as well as garlic, onions, and olive oil. For those who love to experiment, this simple dish is open to interpretation. You can combine it with shakshuka, for example, to make a tasty Moroccan-French fusion recipe. Another tasty way to enjoy ratatouille is to stuff it in a panini with herb aioli. Gazpacho - Spain Bowl of gazpacho soup in a white bowl with garnishes on table - Cris Canton/Getty Images The Spanish were responsible for introducing tomatoes to most of Europe, so it makes sense that the country's cuisine is rich in the fruit. It's often added as one of the key ingredients in paella, for example, which is considered by many to be Spain's national dish. But for true tomato-lovers, one of the best Spanish dishes has to be gazpacho. Gazpacho, which comes from Spain's Andalusia region, is a cold soup made with lots of tomatoes (usually the freshest, ripest ones you can find), as well as cucumbers, peppers, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and bread croutons. Because gazpacho is chilled, it's the perfect soup for enjoying in the warm, summer months. There are many variations on the traditional gazpacho recipe. Some make it with crab, while others combine it with cherries to give it more of a Moroccan vibe. If you try your hand at gazpacho and the tomatoes taste too acidic, just add a sprinkle of sugar for a perfectly balanced lunchtime dish. Read the original article on Tasting Table. A 20-year-old American pilot who is traveling across the globe to raise money for childhood cancer research has been stuck in Antarctica for more than a month after he was accused of illegally landing there. Ethan Guo, then 19, began his journey in Memphis, Tennessee, in September 2024 to raise $1 million for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital. Guo has been documenting his trip on Instagram. In late June, his journey around the world derailed after he landed his single-engine Cessna 182Q in a remote location in Chilean territory in Antarctica. Chilean authorities alleged that he was not authorized to land at the airport on King George Island and provided false flight plan data, a press release states. He was charged on June 29 with handing false information to ground control and landing without authorization, The Associated Press reported. But Guo and his legal team have denied that he illegally landed on the continent, saying that he got permission via a text message on WhatsApp from a senior official with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. In a statement, his lawyers said due to bureaucratic confusion over flight rule permissions, Chilean officials told Guo to circle in the dark over Tierra del Fuego in South America before continuing his flight to Ushuaia, Argentina. While doing so, he encountered instrument failures and heavy, unreported icing conditions caused by high cloud cover over the Andes, his lawyers said. The conditions created an imminent risk of crash, so Guo diverted over the ocean. Once over the ocean, he experienced engine-related issues, they said. Due to these cascading failures, Mr. Guo requested and received explicit, direct permission to land at the Marsh base from a high-ranking DGAC official via WhatsApp, an authorization that was subsequently confirmed by the bases air traffic controller. Jaime Barrientos Ramirez, an attorney for Guo, shared a screenshot of his message to the official. Can I land at SCRM, he asked, referring to the King George Island airport. The official responded, Yes with a thumbs-up emoji. On Monday, the charges against Guo were dropped as part of an agreement that he donate $30,000 to a childrens cancer foundation in Chile. Officials said he has 30 days to make the donation and is also prohibited from entering Chilean territory for three years. In a series of posts on X, Guo said that his case had been dropped, but officials still wont let him fly out. According to the AP, the region is experiencing harsh winter weather and there are no flights available for Guo to take to leave. Its quite frankly insane," he told "NBC Nightly News" on Wednesday. "They say Im free, they say the plane is free, but they wont let me leave. They wont let me fly it out. Guo said his food is rationed at the Antarctic air base and his communication with the outside world is limited. In an Instagram story, Guo wrote that his plane is in flying condition, but officials wont let me fly back. It's not clear why Chilean officials won't let Guo leave. Attorneys for Guo did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday. A composite image of risotto, loaf of bread, and fresh pasta - Static Media / Shutterstock / Getty Some people are natural born cooks, and others have a trickier time putting meals together. If you fall into the latter category, chances are you can achieve more than you think. It's easy to become intimidated by recipes and the appearance of certain dishes and assume there's no way you can make them. While there are some dishes that total amateurs probably shouldn't attempt (say, a tiered cake with elaborate frosting), plenty of others are easier to make than you might think. In the name of culinary expansion, we asked professionals for insight as to what dishes aren't all that hard to make. Keeping in mind that home cooks are likely more inclined to pose this question, we spoke to a couple of culinary school instructors for a balanced take. Alana Maas, co-owner and culinary instructor of Northwest Culinary Academy in Vancouver, British Columbia, and "Chopped" Canada winner, shared some advice about cooking seemingly tricky dishes. Meanwhile, Angie Quaale, owner of Well Seasoned, a gourmet food store and cooking school nearby in British Columbia, opened up about tips for stepping outside of your culinary comfort zone. With expert guidance and a little bit of extra courage, you'll soon find yourself in the kitchen preparing dishes you had previously deemed only restaurant worthy. Whether you've been hesitant about making bread or stirring up the perfect risotto, it's time you gave it a shot. Read more: 17 Ways To Cook Eggs, Explained Souffle Chocolate souffle in a ramekin with vanilla ice cream on he side - Vichailao/Getty Images Angie Quaale starts strong when listing dishes that intimidate home cooks but aren't as difficult as you'd think. "Souffles top the list -- they have a reputation for being temperamental, but they're not nearly as scary as people think!" It's natural to be hesitant when staring down at a souffle recipe. After all, the egg-based dish has long been described as finicky and tricky to make. As Alana Maas points out, there are several factors that might cause issues along the way: "Do you really need to be quiet? How far do you need to whip the egg whites? What causes it to deflate?" However, what it really comes down to is being careful with the process. You'll want to follow the instructions step by step, measuring ingredients carefully, whisking the egg whites, and checking the timing. A bit of yolk in the egg whites might seem inconsequential, but due to the precise chemistry at play, it could be the reason your souffle fails. Room temperature eggs also tend to have better results, so plan ahead or use a quick trick to warm them up. Fresh Pasta person rolling pasta dough - Giorgio Perottino/Getty Images You might think you need a culinary degree to make pasta from scratch, but it's relatively straightforward when you get down to it. Both Angie Quaale and Alana Maas acknowledge that fresh pasta intimidates home cooks, and Maas notes some of the common issues that can cause worry: "Is it too dry? Too wet? How long to proof and rise? Is it cooked through?" Ultimately, she notes that "It requires a lot of experience to know the feel of the product and how to cook it properly." Nevertheless, there's only one way to get experience, and that's by practicing it yourself. There are several tips to master for perfect homemade pasta, from your workspace and the equipment you use, to the type of dough you choose to make. For example, egg pasta has a more pliable texture, which might be easier for beginners to practice. Meanwhile, the right type of flour can make a big difference, as can the duration you knead the dough and let it rest. Making fresh pasta from scratch requires patience, so you'll want to set aside enough time for the project. With time on your side, this intimidating dish can come together seamlessly. Bread Top view of a no knead bread in dutch oven on a table - Scarlino Studio/Shutterstock Bread is another flour-based dish that can intimidate a lot of home cooks, but it doesn't have to have that effect. Sure, trying to perfect a French baguette on your first try might not yield successful results, but there are plenty of bread recipes that beginners can tackle. "Having a few significant 'wins' in the kitchen can really boost a nervous cook's confidence," Angie Quaale comments. She notes that recipes involving yeast tend to make some people trepidatious, adding, "yeast can feel intimidating because it's alive and requires a little patience (and the right environment)." Quaale suggests, "no-knead recipes are perfect for beginners, they require minimal effort and deliver amazing results." Instead of kneading your dough until it reaches an ambiguous state of perfection, just combine the ingredients, let the dough rise, then bake. Alana Maas points out that part of what makes it intimidating is "because it requires a feel and not a set measurement of ingredients." Start with a no-knead recipe or a simple bread dough, and work your way up as you begin to recognize the characteristics that lead to a good rise. Risotto Risotto alla milanese in a white plate with fork and knife on the side - Cris Canton/Getty Images The elusive risotto has long been described as a recipe that requires never-ending stirring. As Angie Quaale notes, "people worry they'll be chained to the stove stirring for hours which isn't the case at all." Although it might not be the most hands-off dish, there is nothing inherently technical about making risotto. Certain factors cause people to feel intimidated when trying the recipe for the first time, but with a few tips to keep in mind, even beginners can make delicious tasting risotto. For starters, it's important to use the right type of rice -- arborio or carnaroli are short grain rice with a high starch content, essential for creating the creaminess that makes risotto so iconic. Meanwhile, don't try to add all the ingredients at once; it's important to add the broth bit by bit, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more. This helps the grains release more starch, which lets the rich consistency develop over time. Forget what you've heard about risotto; there's no need to stir the rice non-stop, as that can cause it to become gluey. Every minute or so give the mixture a stir; it'll be ready in about 20 minutes, so you won't have time to tire yourself out. If you want to skip the stovetop altogether, Quaale suggests an oven-baked version, which she describes as being just as creamy, but requiring far less stirring Cooked Fish Salmon fillet with asparagus, tomatoes, dill and lemon on plate - Jacek Chabraszewski/Shutterstock Whether you're uncomfortable about the smell or worried about overcooking it until dry and unpalatable, cooking fish can be intimidating. Angie Quaale notes, "Delicate proteins like fish can be tricky because they cook so quickly and can fall apart if handled too much." Nevertheless, it is totally achievable to cook fish no matter your skill level. If you're just starting off, choosing the right fish and technique will eliminate stress. There are plenty of tips you need when cooking fish, such as knowing when to add moisture, leaving the skin on, and not flipping it more than once. As Quaale points out, fish can break pretty easily, so it's important to use a light touch. Heartier fish like salmon and halibut might be easier than something like cod, for example. Different cooking methods like baking, broiling, and steaming are less hands on than pan-frying for example. For the ultimate fish meal that's easy to prepare and packed with flavor, try cooking it "en papillote." This method calls for placing the fish on a piece of parchment paper, adding vegetables, herbs, and butter or olive oil before folding the paper over like a little package. Bake the parcel at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or so while it steams, then enjoy. Fried Foods Frying chicken in large black cast iron pot - Catherine Mcqueen/Getty Images Deep-frying might feel like a technique best left to the experts, but with a few key tips, you can do it at home. "Deep-frying scares a lot of people, mostly because of the hot oil," Angie Quaale says. As long as you avoid some common mistakes everyone makes when frying food, you'll see it's not that complicated. Safety is definitely a factor, as hot oil can cause burns, but it's mostly a matter of paying attention to what you're doing and not leaving the kitchen while food is frying. For starters, you don't need an actual deep fryer to achieve successful results. Using a cast iron pot with high sides is a good alternative, since it retains heat and prevents the oil temperature from dropping quickly when you add food. As it turns out, low oil temperature can ruin your fried dish, leading the food to absorb oil instead of producing a crispy shell. Make sure to avoid overcrowding the pot too, as the oil will rapidly drop in temperature if you add too much. Finally, make sure not to add wet food to the hot oil, as it will cause splatters which can be hard to avoid while standing by the stove. Foods With Specific Timing Measuring temperature of meat in skillet - Suteren Studio/Shutterstock Some dishes leave room for flexibility, allowing home cooks to switch up the ingredients and play around with timings. However, that's not always the case, and just as many dishes require precision. "Anything that involves timing, like searing meat or making caramel, tends to make home cooks nervous because there's a small window between perfect and burned," Angie Quaale points out. Dishes like souffles and certain sauces like hollandaise require a set duration. To mitigate the worry that you may just burn your perfect cut of steak or ruin a pastry, she recommends, "An investment in an inexpensive digital thermometer will make cooking foolproof! When you're not guessing temperatures all of these techniques can be easily mastered!" As you develop skills, practice different techniques, and repeatedly cook certain dishes over time, you'll start to get a sense for it. As Alana Maas shares, "When you're able to identify the difference in temperatures and how they affect your food, timing comes more naturally without having to set timers or be concerned about undercooked or overcooked food." Dishes With Too Many Ingredients Or Cooking Methods Woman sitting in a kitchen reading cookbook with inquisitive look - Nicoleta Ionescu/Shutterstock It's hard not to be intimidated when you find a recipe that sounds delicious but has a long list of ingredients and an elaborate process. Don't let that stop you though. "I believe that practice makes it easier and being prepared ahead of time can help ease the daunting feeling of having to do too much," Alana Maas says and recommends, "If you're trying to attempt a dish that you feel is tricky or difficult, start prepping it a little bit at a time ... execution of the dish will be faster and seem less intimidating." Angie Quaale agrees that planning ahead will set you up for success. "There's nothing worse than getting part way through a recipe and realizing you're missing an ingredient because you didn't read it properly," she warns. Aside from being prepared, Quaale notes, "Most of the time, it comes down to perception. People see a fancy restaurant dish or a beautifully styled photo online and assume it requires professional skills or lots of special equipment." There's also the worry that if you mess it up, you'll be disappointed and ruin dinner. "The truth is, many of those 'intimidating' dishes are absolutely doable at home with the right techniques and a little patience," Quaale asserts. Meanwhile, Maas suggests starting with simpler dishes and working your way up from there. "I would be looking for recipes that are efficient and not overly complicated but still satisfy the restaurant feel." Read the original article on Tasting Table. NEW YORK Alicia Silverstone came to fame in the 1990s, long before the barrage of Instagram comments, TikTok algorithms and YouTube rabbit holes. And she acknowledges that she "can't imagine" what it would be like to start her career in this day and age. But there's one part of Silverstone's origin that the actress isn't sentimental about. "They're kinder to people now, aren't they?" Silverstone, 48, ponders. "(The media) used to be able to just rip a woman apart. Now you would not be allowed to do that." The actress doesn't see a lot of stories like the ones written about her in the '90s. There was the 1995 Rolling Stone profile that called Silverstone an actress "whom lots of men want to sleep with" (she was 18). Then there was the obsessive attention paid to her weight while filming 1997's "Batman & Robin." These days, "people would've come to my rescue, right?" she adds. "In any given moment, there's a group of people who have things to say, and then the other people come and they smash (the negative comments) down. Before, we didn't have that." Join our Watch Party! Sign up to receive USA TODAY's movie and TV recommendations right in your inbox Alicia Silverstone acknowledges she's not the most "with it" when it comes to pop culture, but can still "feel" that "Clueless" is connecting with audiences, 30 years after its release. "It's a really beloved film. People really, really love it." Instead, following the coverage around her turn as Batgirl, Silverstone told The Guardian that she entered a period where she "stopped loving acting." But now Silverstone is as busy as ever, with roles on TV and in film, plus an upcoming trip to Venice Film Festival. Alicia Silverstone plays 'a powerful woman who likes sex' in 'Pretty Thing' Silverstone's first major film role came at 15 in the erotic thriller "The Crush." More than 30 years later, the actress returns to the genre with "Pretty Thing" (available on digital platforms). She plays Sophie, a successful executive who has an affair with a younger lover (Karl Glusman). The relationship takes a turn when Sophie tries to leave and he becomes obsessive. "She's a powerful, professional woman who likes sex," Silverstone says. "In the '90s, a lot of these erotic thrillers, if a woman likes sex, she had to be crazy or die or kill someone. What I like about ('Pretty Thing') is that Sophie likes sex and she's not the crazy one. He is." Silverstone will be back in movie theaters in October, reuniting with director Yorgos Lanthimos for the black comedy "Bugonia." She previously worked with the filmmaker on the 2017 psychological thriller The Killing of a Sacred Deer. "Bugonia" stars Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons and will premiere in Venice, with Silverstone in attendance. "I've been fans of theirs for so long," Silverstone says of Stone and Plemons. "Even though I have a very small role in that film, I am just so happy to be there with them." Alicia Silverstone had 'severe exhaustion' working on 'Irish Blood' Silverstone's latest project is the series "Irish Blood" (first two episodes streaming now, new episodes Mondays on Acorn TV). The actress plays a Los Angeles attorney who travels to Ireland in hopes of uncovering a mystery about her father. Silverstone, also an executive producer on the six-episode run, resided about 45 minutes outside of Dublin during production. Working on "Irish Blood" "created severe exhaustion because the first whole month, every moment that I wasn't shooting, I was working on the scripts with the writers," Silverstone recalls, though the experience was still "wonderful." "I'm so grateful that I get to do this artistic fun thing." Usually, she practices her lines and scenes at least a month out. Instead, she would "run lines" while in the makeup chair that morning, sometimes for as little as 20 minutes. "I would, between takes (and) scenes, be learning the next thing," Silverstone says. "It's really full on mental. There's no downtime, that's for darn sure." Alicia Silverstone says she's "heard from many people who do fashion" that the 1995 cult classic "Clueless" served as an inspiration, including from her friend and designer Christian Siriano. Alicia Silverstone calls 'Clueless,' 'this amazing, thrilling thing' Following "The Crush," Silverstone appeared in three music videos for Aerosmith, including "Cryin'." This led to her landing the role of Cher Horowitz in 1995's cult classic "Clueless." She's enjoyed celebrating the film's 30th anniversary, including a screening in June at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. "No one could have known that it would be such a cultural phenomenon," says Silverstone, who's thankful it's reaching a new generation. Silverstone remembers walking in a Florida shopping mall while filming the "The Requin" in 2020. "These 14-year-olds were staring at me and I thought, 'Why are they staring at me?' And they came over like, 'Ah!' and then I realized, 'Oh, (the movie has) really caught on again.'" "Clueless" isn't the only '90s relic having a moment. The nostalgia has hit music as well, where TRL-era acts like Backstreet Boys, Nelly, the Goo Goo Dolls and Oasis are all enjoying successful residencies and summer tours. "I remember people talking about the '90s were back, and that was a long time ago," Silverstone says with a laugh. "The '90s has come back and it keeps coming back. I don't think it ever went away." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Alicia Silverstone on 'Clueless' lore, new show 'Irish Blood' The man accused of killing a married couple while they were on a hiking trip with their kids in Arkansas July 26 is being looked at for possible involvement in other murders. Arkansas State Police allege Andrew James McGann killed Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, and Clinton David Brink, 43, while the couple was taking their children hiking at Devil's Den State Park in Washington County, Arkansas. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Thursday morning. Col. Mike Hagar, Arkansas State Police director, said McGann confessed to the killings, adding they were stabbed to death in a "completely random event." "We have no reason to believe there was any known association between our suspect and our victims," Hagar said. "During an interview with investigators, the suspect admitted to committing the murders. We also executed a search warrant at his residence and recovered items consistent with the crime." Death Penalty Possible After 'Random' Hiking Murders Left Children Without Mom And Dad: Former Prosecutor Clinton and Cristen Brink were murdered at Devil's Den State Park July 26, 2025. Hagar said DNA was used to link McGann to the couple's death. Read On The Fox News App McGann, who has held several schoolteacher positions in the Southeast over several years, is also being looked at for possible involvement in the murders of people in Vermont and Wisconsin. A detective from the Sauk County Sheriffs Office in Wisconsin told Fox News Digital his agency has received tips regarding a "possible connection" between the July 26 incident and a separate Oct. 14, 2020, incident in Devils Lake State Park, where John Craig Schmutzer was stabbed while hiking on the Grottos Trail. Family Vacation Hotspot On Edge After Parents Randomly Murdered In Front Of Their Kids John Craig Schmutzer was killed in 2020. The detective said police are trying to determine if there's any link between McGann and the death of Schmutzer. "Weve received many tips, both from citizens in Arkansas and Wisconsin, regarding the Devils Den Homicide and the possible connection to our homicide from October 2020," Det. Sgt. Drew Bulin told Fox News Digital. "Weve been in contact with Arkansas investigators and will be working to determine if the similarities are a coincidence or if there is something more." According to ABC 7 News, McGann grew up in Chicago's Garfield Ridge neighborhood, which is about three hours from Devil's Lake State Park. The Sauk County Sheriff's Office said Schmutzer's killer was roughly 6 feet tall with a "slender to average build." Jail records from Washington County, Arkansas, indicate McGann is 6 feet tall. The Vermont State Police said in an Aug. 7 press release that detectives reached out to law enforcement in Arkansas to discuss the death of Honoree Fleming, whose body was found on the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail in Castleton. "After the Vermont State Police learned of the recent double homicide of a couple on a hiking trail in Arkansas and the arrest of a suspect, VSP detectives took the routine step of contacting their counterparts in Arkansas to discuss the case," the Vermont State Police wrote. "At this time, there is no known link between the suspect in that case and the Honoree Fleming homicide, or to Vermont in general." Honoree Fleming, a biologist and former dean of education at the Vermont State University Castleton Campus, sits at her computer in an undated family photo. She was found shot dead on a hiking trail near the school Oct. 5, and police are asking for the public's help finding a suspect. Shane Wilkinson, a criminal defense attorney and former chief deputy prosecutor of Benton County, Arkansas, told Fox News Digital he thinks law enforcement agencies with unsolved hiking murders are likely taking a look at McGann. "I think anybody that has an unsolved hiking trail murder, they're probably taking note of this right now," Wilkinson said. Former homicide Det. Ted Williams told Fox News Digital McGann's alleged murder has "raised a great deal of red flags all over the country." Click To Get The Fox News App Special agents with the Arkansas State Police arrested James Andrew McGann, 28, of Springdale, in a July 26, 2025, double homicide at Devils Den State Park. "I would have to believe not only are law enforcement in Wisconsin and Vermont interested in McGann. But they also interested him all over this country because of the manner in which he was alleged to have stabbed this couple to death," Williams said. "And the manner in which he stabbed this couple there in Devil's Den State Park would lead any law enforcement agency that has a similar situation, where someone has been stabbed to death, to definitely wanna look into Andrew McGann." Fox News Digital's Michael Ruiz contributed to this report. Original article source: Alleged Devil's Den killer investigated in multiple unsolved murders across US that have one thing in common President Donald Trump surprised markets on Monday with a deal that was widely characterized as unusual: Nvidia and AMD will contribute 15% of their chip sales in China to the U.S. government. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has leaned into this new export revenue-sharing deal, saying it could serve as a blueprint for other industries. In a TV interview with Bloomberg Surveillance, Bessent praised Trumps unique solution. I think we could see it in other industries over time, Bessent said. Right now, this is unique, but now that we have the model and the beta test, why not expand it? The historic agreement essentially allows Nvidia to export its H20 accelerator chips and AMD its MI308 processorsdesigned specifically for compliance with U.S. export controlsto Chinese buyers who are hungry for advanced AI technology. Semiconductor chips, on the one hand, and rare earth materials, on the other, have been Americas and Chinas respective leverage points as the countries seek a new trade understanding. Bessent claimed in the interview the revenue collected from the chip sales would go directly to paying down the national debt, and hinted at the possibility of channeling additional funds to taxpayers if the program proves successful. Hotly debated deal The deal itself, however, has raised considerable debate. For years, Washingtons approach to export controls centered on outright bans and restriction of certain dual-use or national-security-sensitive goods. The Trump administration had previously halted all sales of advanced chips to China, citing risks of aiding Chinese military and AI efforts. But the new model seeks to find a middle ground: It enables sales while capturing U.S. value and providing leverage in ongoing negotiations with Beijing. Bessent, a former hedge fund manager and George Soros protege who became one of Trumps closest Wall Street allies, has long argued for a strategic, results-oriented approach to American trade. His idea is U.S. companies can continue to compete globally without relinquishing leverageor security. The arrangement itself is unusual. It is not a tax in the traditional legislative sense, but rather a condition attached to the export licensea point that has sparked controversy among legal experts. Its bizarre in many respects and pretty troubling since Congress didnt have anything to say about this, Gary Hufbauer of the Peterson Institute for International Economics told The Hill. He noted direct revenue-sharing agreements negotiated by the president and individual firms are without precedent in U.S. trade history. For this story, Fortune used generative AI to help with an initial draft. An editor verified the accuracy of the information before publishing. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com chocolate flaky candy with peanut butter inside - Oregon Bark/Instagram Peanut butter is America's favorite spread; is there anything more American than a PB&J or a fluffernutter? Along with homemade snacks and sandwiches, peanut butter is the subject of many candy bars. We taste-tested a whopping 18 peanut butter candies on the market to find the best one based on the purity of peanut butter flavor and how other ingredients enhance it. The best peanut butter candy, according to our taste test, is Tom Bumble Nutty, a lesser-known brand out of Oregon. With fan favorites from the Reese's lineup and unique M&M's flavors on our list, Tom Bumble Nutty wasn't even on our radar. And, if you're not an Oregon-native, it might not be on yours either. But it definitely needs to be if you're a peanut butter lover. True to its name, this candy bar is nutty, capturing both the savory aspect of the peanut butter flavor while taking it gracefully into the sweet realm. Most peanut butter candies are ultra sugary, but Tom Bumble had a natural purity we loved. Furthermore, the thin, delicate dark chocolate coating provided the perfect bittersweet complement to the nuttiness of the peanuts, enhancing the peanut butter without overpowering it. Perhaps the most unique component about Tom Bumble Nutty that won us over was the texture. The peanut butter center was flaky and crunchy at first bite, but melted in our mouths once we started chewing. The textural contrast and purity of flavor were unmatched. Read more: 16 Popular Candy Bars, Ranked Worst To Best More Glowing Reviews For Tom Bumble Nutty Tom Bumble Nutty bar on white background - Emily Hunt/Tasting Table Not your average candy bar, Tom Bumble Nutty is made with organic ingredients, and the dark chocolate is fair-trade sourced. Quality ingredients and a local, small-business brand, Tom Bumble Nutty is a candy you'll feel good about buying. While specialty stores as lofty as L.A.'s Erewhon carry Tom Bumble, you might not be able to find them at a convenience store or grocery chain. That said, you can order Tom Bumble Nutty online from Oregon Bark, no matter where you live in the U.S., and they come impeccably wrapped in bite-sized bars. One Instagram review came up with all kinds of whimsical descriptors and exotic comparisons, starting with calling Tom Bumble Nutty "a peanut butter fandango" and saying it tastes like "halva with chocolate around it" that "flakes in your mouth like a chocolate peanut butter glacier." If that's too abstract, this review from The Meadow says it's "unequivocally the best dark chocolate peanut butter combination ever," while another one states "great quality, flavor, flakiness...it's an extra ordinary treat if you love peanut butter and chocolate." The flaky crunch of Tom Bumble Nutty is reminiscent of a classic Butterfinger, one of our favorite Halloween candies. But the dark chocolate coating, quality of ingredients, and melt-in-your-mouth finish put Tom Bumble Nutty on a different level completely, especially since Butterfinger's new recipe has garnered widespread disappointment. Read the original article on Tasting Table. 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. 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. 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. "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 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. 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. "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 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. "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. "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 LOS ANGELES (AP) California Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday his state will hold a Nov. 4 special election to seek approval of redrawn districts intended to give Democrats five more U.S. House seats in the fight for control of Congress. The move is a direct response to a similar Republican-led effort in Texas, pushed by President Donald Trump as his party seeks to maintain its slim House majority in the midterm elections. The nation's two most populous states have emerged as the center of a partisan turf war in the House that could spiral into other states as well as the courts in what amounts to a proxy war ahead of the 2026 elections. Texas lawmakers are considering a new map that could help them send five more Republicans to Washington. Democrats who so far have halted a vote by leaving the state announced Thursday that they will return home if Texas Republicans end their current special session and California releases its own recast map proposal. Both were expected to happen Friday. However, Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to call another special session to push through new maps. Newsom goes to LA to launch campaign for new districts In Los Angeles, Newsom staged what amounted to a campaign kickoff rally for the as-yet unreleased new maps with the state's Democratic leadership in a downtown auditorium packed with union members, legislators and abortion rights supporters. Newsom and other speakers veered from discussing the technical grist of reshaping districts known as redistricting and instead depicted the looming battle as a conflict with all things Donald Trump, tying it explicitly to the fate of American democracy. We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear district by district all across the country," Newsom said. We are not bystanders in this world. We can shape the future. An overarching theme was the willingness to stand up to Trump, a cheer-inducing line for Democrats as the party looks to regroup from its 2024 losses. Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back, said Newsom, a possible 2028 presidential contender. Showdown between Texas and California could spread Thursday's announcement marks the first time any state beyond Texas has officially waded into the mid-decade redistricting fight. The Texas plan was stalled when minority Democrats fled to Illinois, New York and Massachusetts on Aug. 3 to stop the Legislature from passing any bills. Elsewhere, leaders from red Florida to blue New York are threatening to write new maps. In Missouri, a document obtained by The Associated Press shows the state Senate received a $46,000 invoice to activate six redistricting software licenses and provide training for up to 10 staff members. In California, lawmakers must officially declare the special election, which they plan to do next week after voting on the new maps. Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers enough to act without any Republican votes and Newsom said he's not worried about winning the required support from two-thirds of lawmakers to advance the maps. Newsom encouraged other Democratic-led states to get involved. We need to stand up not just California. Other blue states need to stand up, Newsom said. House control could come down to a few seats in 2026 Republicans hold a 219-212 majority in the U.S. House, with four vacancies. New maps are typically drawn once a decade after the census is conducted. Many states, including Texas, give legislators the power to draw maps. California is among states that rely on an independent commission that is supposed to be nonpartisan. The California map would take effect only if a Republican state moves forward, and it would remain through the 2030 elections. After that, Democrats say they would return mapmaking power to the independent commission approved by voters more than a decade ago. Opposition to California plan begins to take shape Some people already have said they would sue to block the effort, and influential voices including former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger may campaign against it. Gavin Newsoms latest stunt has nothing to do with Californians and everything to do with consolidating radical Democrat power, silencing California voters, and propping up his pathetic 2028 presidential pipe dream, National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Christian Martinez said in a statement. Newsoms made it clear: hell shred Californias Constitution and trample over democracy running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority. California Democrats hold 43 of the states 52 House seats, and the state has some of the most competitive House seats. Outside Newsom's news conference Thursday, U.S. Border Patrol agents conducted patrols, drawing condemnation from the governor and others. Were here making Los Angeles a safer place since we dont have politicians that will do that, Gregory Bovino, chief of the patrols El Centro, California, sector, told a reporter with KTTV in Los Angeles. He said he didnt know Newsom was inside nearby. __ Nguyen reported from Sacramento, Calif. AP reporters Nadia Lathan in Austin, Texas, and David Lieb in Jefferson City, Missouri, contributed. Washington Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith issued an executive order Thursday allowing officers making traffic stops to notify federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents about undocumented immigrants they encounter, NBC Washington reported. This is a departure from the police department's previous policy and will allow immigrants who have not been detained or charged with a crime to be reported to ICE for possible arrest and deportation. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser has insisted that her city is not a sanctuary city because law enforcement there has cooperated with ICE in the past. An ICE-branded GMC SUV and Ford pickup truck parked at the Capitol on Wednesday. (Andrew Leyden / Getty Images) But the city has several pro-immigration policies on the books, including one that allows noncitizens to vote in local elections and another that limits cooperation with federal immigration agencies. Representatives for Bowser's office, D.C. police and ICE did not immediately return a request for comment. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the MPD executive order was a "great step." "When they stop people, they find theyre illegal, they report them, they give them to us, etc., thats a very positive thing," he said. "I have heard that it just happened. Thats a great step. Thats a great step, if theyre doing that. Yeah, I think this could happen all over the country. We want to stop crime." Trump on Monday federalized D.C.'s police department and deployed 800 National Guard troops in an effort to crack down on crime in the district even though crime rates in the city are at their lowest level in decades. "Let me be crystal clear: Crime in D.C. is ending and ending today," U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Monday. Part of Trump's action in Washington included mobilizing federal law enforcement officers, including those from ICE, to patrol the streets of Washington alongside Metropolitan Police Department officers. While some of the ICE officers' activities in the city this week have included routine police activities not related to immigration enforcement, officers on Tuesday conducted a targeted enforcement operation to arrest immigrants in a Home Depot parking lot. Since Trump took office in January for his second term, his administration has prioritized the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants, a key campaign promise he made last year. ICE officers have conducted raids this year in major cities across the U.S., including some that prompted mass protests in Los Angeles and across the country in June. WASHINGTON Under the blazing summer sun, people living in Washington's homeless encampments packed up their belongings before authorities moved in with garbage trucks on Aug. 14, as President Donald Trump's crackdown on the nation's capital ramps up. At an encampment a few miles from the Lincoln Memorial and the Kennedy Center, a group of a dozen people broke down their tents and stuffed their clothes in garbage bags with the help of city workers and local homeless advocacy groups. The tents that remained and everything in them were soon bulldozed and taken to a landfill. (The president) is targeting us and persecuting us, said David Beatty, a homeless man living in the encampment that Trump posted a photo of on social media last week. He wants to take our freedom away. The moves come days after Trump assumed federal control of the citys police department and mobilized the National Guard, declaring a "crime emergency" and vowing to clear homeless people off the streets of DC. As more federal agents and National Guard troops are brought into Washington, local officials and social workers have sought to get ahead of the anticipated operations. The push to clear encampments also comes as cities across the United States, including longtime Democratic strongholds such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, have also seen an increase in homeless sweeps and encampment closures. A landmark 2024 Supreme Court decision that allowed laws banning people from sleeping outside, even if they have nowhere else to go, led to a broad crackdown on homelessness in California, and in dozens of cities, towns and rural communities nationwide. David Beatty and other residents of a homeless encampment near the Kennedy Center in Washington clear their tents with the help of advocates. City boosts shelter space as encampments are broken up In mid-August, workers with the DC Department of Human Services visited each of the known encampments, warning of the impending crackdown and offering residents beds in local shelters and storage space. The speedy operations came with little warning and have left the city's homeless population scrambling for places to go. Some plan to move into shelters, while others say they're going to go to neighboring states like Virginia or Maryland. A few said they will continue to wander the city hoping they will stumble on a safe place to sleep. I havent known whats next for so long that its part of normal life at this point, said Jesse Wall, 43, who was forced to pack up his tent and leave the encampment he's lived in for the last several months. "We'll see what happens." In anticipation of a sweeping clampdown on homelessness, the citys human services department added about 70 beds to shelters and expanded storage space to hold people's possessions that they cant carry with them on the street, said Rachel Pierre, acting director of the agency. She said shelters were full when the president's order came down, but that the agency is prepared to open up more beds and storage facilities if they need to. "What we are committed to is that we don't turn anybody away from shelter right now," Pierre said. Since the pandemic, the number of people living in DC's homeless encampments has declined by two-thirds, said Wayne Turnage, deputy mayor of the city's Department of Health and Human Services. This year alone, the U.S. Park Police have disbanded about 70 encampments from federal parks in the city, said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. The last two still standing will be broken down this week, she added. There are still many homeless people who are not living in encampments, local advocate groups say. In January, the city counted 900 people living on the streets during a one-night survey. Advocates warn that encampment sweeps don't address the root causes of homelessness and only make the crisis worse by forcing people into a cycle of jail, debt and living on the streets. Fines, arrests, and encampment evictions make homelessness worse, further traumatize our homeless neighbors while disconnecting them from community and support," said Dana White, director of advocacy for Miriams Kitchen, a local organization that works with homeless people. If policing resolved homelessness, we wouldnt have homelessness here in DC or anywhere else in this country. DC's homeless communities face uncertain future On Aug. 14, Wall stuffed his clothes, his rolled-up sleeping bag and a folder of important documents in silver trash bags. The night before, he came home to find a note tacked on to his tent saying the encampment he's called home for the last few months would be taken down the following morning. After packing up, he and several of his neighbors milled around the grassy median where they live, discussing what they will do next and where to go. Wall, who moved into a tent nearly a year ago, told USA TODAY he might stay at a shelter for a few nights. Beyond that, hes not sure where hell end up. Its cruel, he said of the sweeping order and push to move people off the streets. Beatty, who has been homeless in DC for several years, said he may go to Virginia to avoid the federal crackdown. I dont know how far of a walk that is, he said, as a bulldozer began tearing through a nearby tent. Contributing: Karissa Waddick (This story was updated to add new information.) This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Washington DC cracks down on homeless encampments National Guard troops have begun 24-hour operations around Washington, D.C., as of Thursday morning, according to a Department of Defense official. It's part of President Donald Trump's plan to address crime in Washington by taking over the city's police department and deploying the National Guard troops. Thursday's National Guard presence in Washington included one small unit deployed to both Union Station and the National Mall early in the morning, according to a spokesperson for joint task force behind the operation. The idea is that residents and tourists would awake Thursday morning to the sight of military presence, according to a person familiar with the effort. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: A National Guard vehicle is parked near the Lincoln Memorial, August 14, 2025 in Washington. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: Members of the National Guard stand by at Union Station, August 14, 2025 in Washington. J. Scott Applewhite/AP - PHOTO: National Guard personnel keep watch as travelers arrive at the entrance to Union Station near the Capitol, in Washington, Aug. 14, 2025. MORE: Trump to seek 'long-term' extension of federal control of DC police Earlier this week, some National Guard troops patrolled along the National Mall -- a relatively safe and quiet stretch of Washington known for museums, monuments and hot dog vendors serving tourists. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents detain a person at a checkpoint as they join Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers to conduct traffic checks along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Guard members on patrol are not carrying weapons as of now, and they will not have the weapons in their vehicles, according to two defense officials. A White House official told ABC News that overnight Wednesday into Thursday, the multi-agency federal task force made 45 arrests -- 29 of which were immigration-related arrests. Law enforcement teams arrested people on a variety of charges including first and second degree assault, controlled substance possession and distribution, and carrying a concealed weapon, the White House official said. FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X that overnight Wednesday into Thursday, the FBI and law enforcement partners in Washington contributed to the 45 arrests with 16 arrests "tied to the violent crime surge" and seized three firearms. "Your FBI will make DC Safe Again," Patel wrote. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Park Police officers detain a person on the National Mall, August 12, 2025 in Washington. Law enforcement agents conducted a traffic safety compliance checkpoint on busy 14th Street in Northwest Washington Wednesday night, which led to one arrest. A group of protesters spoke out against the checkpoint, shouting at the law enforcement officers, according to video from Washington's ABC station, WJLA. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Residents of the area yell at agents of the Department of Homeland Security during traffic checks at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images - PHOTO: FBI agents walk down Florida Ave between 14th street NW and 13th street NW, August 13, 2025 in Washington. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents join Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers as they conduct traffic checks at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Army officials said their mission was to aid law enforcement with logistics support, transportation and administration duties, as well as being visible around the Mall. "That's part of our assignment -- to go to the national monuments and be present," Col. Dave Butler, an Army spokesperson, told ABC News on Tuesday. MORE: National Guard troops told to maintain presence near National Mall as part of Trump's anti-crime mission Trump announced Monday that he planned to mobilize 800 National Guard troops to address what he considered "out of control" crime in the city, as well as taking over control of the Metropolitan Police Department. Trump has made claims about rampant violent crime in Washington, which D.C. police statistics show is actually decreasing. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said the city has spent the last two years driving down violent crime -- "driving it down to a 30 year low, in fact," she told MSNBC on Sunday. "It is true that we had a terrible spike in crime in 2023, but this is not 2023, this is 2025 and we've done that by working with the community, working with the police, working with our prosecutors, and, in fact, working with the federal government," Bowser told MSNBC. Defense officials said the joint task force, led by Army Col. Larry Doane, will run the operation. 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. The task force includes 800 activated National Guard members, defense officials said. 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. Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson on Thursday said the 800 National Guard troops will remain "until law and order has been restored." "They will remain until law and order has been restored in the District as determined by the president, standing as the gatekeepers of our great nation's capital," she said. The task force overseeing the activated Guard troops will operate similarly to how the D.C. Guard has handled inaugurations or responding to crises, as it did during the Jan. 6 riots. The National Park Service will play a considerable role because of its oversight of the National Mall, officials said. ABC News' Michelle Stoddart, Kelsey Walsh and Lalee Ibssa contributed to this report. FILE - Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a news conference about a recent immigration enforcement operation, at the South Florida office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Enforcement and Removal Operations, May 1, 2025, in Miramar, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, file) TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis' administration is preparing to open a second immigration detention facility dubbed Deportation Depot at a state prison as a federal judge decides the fate of the state's holding center for immigrants at an isolated airstrip in the Florida Everglades known as Alligator Alcatraz. DeSantis announced Thursday that the new facility is to be housed at the Baker Correctional Institution, a state prison about 43 miles (69 kilometers) west of downtown Jacksonville. It is expected to hold 1,300 immigration detention beds, though that capacity could be expanded to 2,000, state officials said. After opening the Everglades facility last month, DeSantis justified building the second detention center by saying President Donald Trumps administration needs the additional capacity to hold and deport more immigrants. There is a demand for this, DeSantis said. Im confident that it will be filled. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has trumpeted Republican governors' efforts to expand their immigration detention capacity, calling Florida's partnership a model for other state-run holding facilities. Plans to open the facility in two to three weeks DeSantis touted the relative ease and economy of setting up the northern Florida facility at a preexisting prison, estimating the build-out cost to be $6 million. That's compared to the hundreds of millions of dollars the state has committed to construct the vast network of tents and trailers at the south facility in the rugged and remote Florida swamp. This part of the facility is not being used right now for the state prisoners. It just gives us an ability to go in, stand it up quickly, stand it up cheaply, DeSantis said of the state prison, calling the site ready-made. It could take two to three weeks to get the facility operational, according to Kevin Guthrie, the director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the agency in charge of building the immigration facilities. The state had announced plans to "temporarily" close the prison in 2021, due to persistent staffing shortages. A building thats been dormant now for a couple of years is going to have some unforeseen challenges, Guthrie said when estimating the construction timeline. Among the renovations needed: air conditioning, which is not required under Florida's standards for its prisons, despite the state's sweltering climate. Florida National Guard to staff the site Staffing at the site will be handled by the Florida National Guard and state contractors as needed, DeSantis said. The state's National Guard had been called on to help run the state's prisons for more than two years due to chronic staff shortages, before being mobilized to support the state's immigration enforcement efforts. DeSantis had previously floated plans to open a second detention facility at a nearby Florida National Guard training facility known as Camp Blanding, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) southwest of Jacksonville. The long-standing military installation was a major U.S. Army training facility during World War II and serves as a continuity of government site for Floridas executive branch, according to the facility's website. But announcing the plans Thursday, DeSantis said the Baker facility was a better fit because of its available capacity and proximity to a regional airport. Blanding does have air capacity, but probably not a big enough runway to handle large planes, DeSantis said. Everglades facility faces civil rights lawsuit DeSantis pledged that detainees at the new facility will have the same services that are available at the state's first detention center. Attorneys for detainees at the Everglades facility have called the conditions there deplorable, writing in a court filing that some detainees are showing symptoms of COVID-19 without being separated from the general population. Rainwater floods their tents and officers go cell-to-cell pressuring detainees to sign voluntary removal orders before theyre allowed to consult their attorneys. Recent conditions at Alligator Alcatraz have fueled a sense of desperation among detainees, the attorneys said in the court filing. Conditions at the hastily built detention center were outlined in a filing made Wednesday ahead of a hearing Monday over the legal rights of the detainees. Civil rights attorneys want U.S. District Judge Rodolfo Ruiz to ensure that detainees at the facility have confidential access to their lawyers, which the lawyers say they havent had. The state of Florida disputed claims that detainees attorneys have been unable to meet with their clients. Since July 15, when videoconferencing started at the facility, the state has granted every request for a detainee to meet with an attorney, and in-person meetings started July 28, state officials said. The first detainees arrived at the beginning of July. Attorneys for detainees also wanted the judge to identify an immigration court that has jurisdiction over the detention center so that petitions can be filed for the detainees bond or release. The civil rights attorneys say theyve been told regularly that federal immigration courts in Florida dont have jurisdiction over the detainees held in the Everglades. ___ Associated Press writer Mike Schneider in Orlando contributed to this report. Kate Payne is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. A close-up image of meatballs in a white bowl - Lauripatterson/Getty Images It's presumed that meatballs were created from leftover scraps out of sheer need in ancient Iran, which eventually spread to Arabian countries, evolving into a dish called kofta. Today, this circular-shaped chameleon of the culinary world has seen its fair share of adaptations, appearing in Swedish, Indonesian, and Mexican cuisine, with different meaty ingredients. Some recipes call for turkey for its nutrient-packed and low-fat allure compared to its red meat counterparts though it can often be dry. Antoinette Gangi of Antoinette's Italian Kitchen told us all about how to avoid this for the juiciest turkey meatballs ever, saying that the secret is in the onions. Gangi mentions, "Grated onion is my go-to because it adds moisture and flavor without changing the texture." Keeping in mind the fat ratio also helps by balancing out the turkey with at least 7% egg and flavored breadcrumbs. Not only will the meatballs be succulent, but they will also be more flavorful and solid compared to ones with a higher meat percentage. The Italian cuisine connoisseur also warns against over-mixing the meat a common mistake that kills your poor meatballs which results in a chewy bite. Cream cheese is another secret ingredient to make meatballs moist, though letting it bubble in tomato sauce is an equally smart idea for the meat to really soak up the taste. Gangi's partnership with Ragu for National Lasagna Day, which created a new pasta sauce flavor, Kettle Cooked Roasted Garlic, might even work well with this method. Read more: 14 Old-School Ground Beef Dishes No One Seems To Make Anymore Amp Up The Flavors Of Your Turkey Meatballs Meatballs, broccoli, and rice in a white casserole dish with two forks - Aksana Ban/Getty Images Meatballs are well loved for their flavor punch in every bite. As such, aside from juiciness, you should also focus on adding more depth. Beyond egg and breadcrumbs, Antoinette Gangi's method includes an array of seasonings like cup onion powder, cup garlic powder, and a teaspoon of black pepper. Adding cup grated pecorino Romano cheese to boost the sharp flavors is a wise choice, as well as an equally modest serving of chopped parsley, and a dash of sea salt. You may also consider adding a swirl of pesto for more flavorful turkey meatballs a surprising yet delightful bonus. These ingredients will create a well-rounded yet well-balanced dish that's as juicy as it is flavorful. Once mixed and curled up into its desired shape, Gangi encourages having a simmering sauce ready to drop the meatballs in. But don't forget to twist the knob to achieve a lower heat and keep the lid ajar to help flavors come together and create a juicy outcome. It's a good idea to stir the ingredients every now and then to avoid them sticking to your pot. After an hour, you'll have the turkey meatballs of your dreams that you can eat on their own or add to other dishes as the perfect centerpiece. Read the original article on Chowhound. An anti-government protester talks to police officers during an anti-government protest in Belgrade, Serbia, Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic) BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) Thousands of anti-government protesters returned to the streets in Serbia on Thursday after two days of clashes with loyalists of autocratic President Aleksandar Vucic and riot police that left dozens injured or detained. Police fired tear gas in at least two cities and numerous other incidents were reported throughout the country. In the northern city of Novi Sad, where the anti-Vucic revolt in Serbia started more than nine months ago, groups of young protesters shouted, He is finished, as they demolished the offices of the president's ruling Serbian Progressive Party. The demonstrators broke windows on the party's downtown office and carried away some documents and pieces of furniture from inside. The police or Vucic's supporters, who have guarded the office for months, where nowhere to be seen. In Belgrade, the Serbian capital, and in Novi Sad, police in the evening fired multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse the protesters who then moved to other locations in smaller groups. Protesters in a downtown Belgrade area at one point scrambled in panic, some tumbling to the ground as they tried to run away. Videos on social media showed riot police beating up some protesters and a footage showed an opposition politician, his head bandaged. Vucic told pro-government Informer television that the state will win as he announced a crackdown on anti-government protesters, accusing them of inciting violence and of being enemies of their own country. He reiterated earlier claims that the protests have been organized from abroad, offering no evidence. The unrest throughout Serbia this week marked a serious escalation in largely peaceful demonstrations led by Serbia's university students that have shaken Vucic's firm grip on power in the Balkan country. Rival groups on Wednesday hurled rock and bottles at each other amid clouds of smoke and chaos. An army security officer at the SNS party offices at one point fired his gun in the air, saying later he felt his life had been in danger. Interior Minister Ivica Dacic on Thursday said there were gatherings at some 90 locations in the country the previous evening. The Serbian president has faced accusations of stifling democratic freedoms and of allowing organized crime and corruption to flourish in the country that is a candidate for European Union membership. He denies those allegations. The EU's Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said the reports of violence were deeply concerning. Advancing on the EU path requires citizens can express their views freely and journalists can report without intimidation or attacks, Kos added on the social media platform X. Police officers on Wednesday formed a cordon around a makeshift camp of Vucic's loyalists outside the presidency building downtown. Dacic, the interior minister, accused the protesters of attacking governing party loyalists. He said those who broke the law will be identified and sanctioned. University students posted on X to accuse the authorities of trying to provoke a civil war with the clashes at demonstrations. The rallies so far passed for the most part without incident even while drawing hundreds of thousands of people. Occasional violence in the past months mostly involved incidents between protesters and the police, rather than between rival groups. Police were guarding the regime loyalists who were throwing rocks and firing flares at the protesters," a post by the informal group, Students in Blockade, said. The account is run by students from across Serbia who have been protesting the government since late last year. Demonstrations started in November after a renovated train station canopy crashed in Novi Sad, killing 16 people and triggering accusations of corruption in state-run infrastructure projects. The protesters are demanding that Vucic call an early parliamentary election, which he has refused to do. Serbia is formally seeking EU membership, but Vucic has maintained strong ties with Russia and China. I can't recall the names of any of the restaurants I visited during my weeklong stay in Portugal. What I can tell you are the names, countries of origin, professions and motivations of my 13 travel companions none of whom I knew before setting foot in Europe. Solo travel can be intimidating. Having been on group trips by myself, it can feel isolating to be the sole person among couples, families and friend groups. Its always a little awkward during mealtimes when you have to make the choice of asking to sit with someone, harking back to schoolyard fears, or taking a table for yourself and possibly alienating potential friends. "The reason I chose solo (travel) was because where I live, it's seasonal and all the people that I hang around with leave during the summer and there's no one there, John Ohea told USA TODAY. I wanted to meet a bunch of new people and get exposed to different viewpoints, different ideas ... and I haven't been disappointed. During my first meal in Portugal in late July, I sat next to Sydni from California, and we quickly latched on to each other. At least for me, Sydni was home base and Id like to think I was that for her as well as we explored connections with the rest of the group. It took only one train ride together to get to know most of the group. The fact that we were all solo travelers allowed everyone to be more open to one another and the experience of exploring a new country. It was my first time traveling with G Adventures in their new program "Solo-ish." Though the concept is simple a group of solo travelers sharing an itinerary and sometimes a room taking the plunge of booking seemed to be the biggest hurdle for most. (Myself included.) This was my first time ever traveling solo, and what made it very enticing was the fact that it was solo-ish. So, although I was leaving and arriving alone I was very nervous to join a group and see if I was going to feel included, Natalyn Hibbs said. I would say, take that leap and join. It's very rewarding, and the people that you meet coming from all different areas make it a really cool experience, and there's so much you get back from it. Cabo da Roca in Colares, Portugal. We visited six locations (Lisbon, Cascais, Belem, Nazare, Amarante and Porto), which gave the group a good taste of what makes them unique. At each stop, we had a planned activity like nature hikes, city food tours and sightseeing by boat. Solo travel is an increasingly popular choice: Alone is now the third-most common choice for travel companionship, according to a Booking.com survey of 32,106 respondents across 32 countries and territories in January. About 21% of global respondents and 29% of U.S. respondents reported they took a solo trip in 2024. Among those who traveled solo, the freedom to create their itinerary was a key motivator for 38% of global respondents and 30% of Americans. Time for personal reflection and meeting people upon arrival were also strong motivations. I think with solo travel in general, the first point is that it does seem to be more people are wanting to do it, David Stone, Global Head of Sales at Unforgettable Travel Company, told USA TODAY. And I think that the stigma that may have been attached to solo travel is almost disappearing now, which is really great. View of Lisbon, Portugal. What to expect from a solo group trip You wont be alone, dont worry. (Unless you want to be.) Our Portugal itinerary was packed with activities that allowed us to experience so much of the country, but every day had some downtime for everyone to do their own thing if they so wished. During our first night, after a walking food tour of Lisbon, half the group decided to keep going and try different pasteis de nata (traditional Portuguese pastry) while the other half took the bus back to the hotel. The next day, during our visit to Cascais and Belem, the group dispersed to whatever appealed the most (views or hikes), but because we were all solo travelers in a group, you always had someone ready to share a view with you or split a ridiculously large almond pastry. The chief experience officers (CEOs), as G Adventures calls its guides, were there not only as shepherds of the group but also to serve as experts on the area, often recommending where to eat or what to do on our own based on our interests. Adega Machado restaurant in Lisbon, Portugal. I do actually remember one of the restaurants (Adega Machado check it out if youre in Lisbon) because we heard some of the most beautiful live music mere feet from our table, with voices from Isabel Noronha to Pedro Moutinho to Filipa Vieira all in one night. Our G Adventures guide coordinated the experience, and Im so glad she did, because otherwise I wouldnt have known to do that. Solo travel can often place the onus of a copious amount of research on the traveler, but working with a local helped us know where to go for authentic experiences and how to avoid tourist traps, and it highlighted cultural idiosyncrasies we would have otherwise overlooked. Nazare Beach in Portugal Do you look like a tour group when you all walk together? Yes, absolutely. But you need to get over that fear of judgment. From your clothes to the way you do your hair to your accent, youll always be a tourist outside your home and thats OK. Being a tourist isnt inherently frowned upon; being a bad tourist is. Having a local guide with us, being respectful of the places we visited and spending our money at locally owned businesses is all we need to do as responsible travelers. Are you ready for a solo trip? Probably not. I dont think anyone is ever ready to put themselves in uncomfortable positions. Its not in our nature to make ourselves vulnerable. But thats where growth happens. Those uncomfortable moments you handle by yourself are the ones that truly reveal who you truly are. Taberna Clandestina Cascais in Cascais, Portugal. I think doing like the solo-solo travel where you're not with a group, you're not on a tour, that is definitely intimidating and very challenging, and can be very lonely, said Pavel Orel, another guest. This trip is like the perfect balance where there's a lot of the structure that's built in, there's a lot of the community that is already here, and there's enough freedom to do whatever. I consider myself introverted, and this trip was the first time I didnt feel exhausted after talking to people for hours on end. Its an experience quite unlike any other. Im not saying I will take only solo group trips from now on, but theres something to be said about touching base with yourself in a new environment surrounded by travelers looking to do the same. The Alto Douro wine region in Portugal, centered on the Douro river. I haven't done a group trip in a while, and most of the group trips I did, I feel like most of the people were pretty immature. And I feel like this trip had people who really know themselves; they feel secure in themselves. And that makes it a safe environment to go deeper into more real stuff, (compared with what) you would otherwise do surface-level when you just meet someone over dinner or something, Rachel Rosenbaum said. Visiting a new destination with other solo travelers from different countries, backgrounds, ages and fields only enhances the experience. I walked away from Portugal with an appreciation for the countrys relaxed culture, as well as the turns of phrase from South Africans, the kindness of Canadians, the thoughtfulness of Brits, the resilience of Russians, and the tenacity of Americans on the trip with me. I wouldnt have gotten any of that by myself. (This story was updated to refresh headlines.) The reporter on this story received access from G Adventures. USA TODAY maintains editorial control. Josh Rivera is USA TODAY's Senior Consumer Travel Editor. You can reach him at jrivera@usatoday.com This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: I explored a new country with 13 strangers. It was my favorite trip. FILE - Solomon Pena, center, a Republican candidate for New Mexico House District 14, is taken into custody by Albuquerque Police officers, Jan. 16, 2023, in southwest Albuquerque, N.M. (Roberto E. Rosales/The Albuquerque Journal via AP, File) 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. 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. 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. WASHINGTON Steps away from a YMCA, a popular bakery and a pharmacy, a group of law enforcement officers across several agencies turned a busy intersection in a mixed residential-commercial area of Washington into a police checkpoint Wednesday night as part of President Donald Trumps directive to crack down on crime in the nations capital. Uniformed officers with the Metropolitan Police Department stood alongside Homeland Security Investigations personnel and several plainclothes agents at the checkpoint in the U Street corridor at one of the first checkpoints set up since Trump temporarily put D.C. police under federal control and deployed the National Guard. More than 100 protesters soon gathered in the Northwest D.C. neighborhood, heckling law enforcement and chanting "get off our streets" as agents stopped cars and flagged some vehicles for additional investigation. Several protesters began warning drivers to avoid the checkpoint. One vehicle was towed away, with witnesses telling NBC News that the driver was removed from the sedan and arrested. As the crowd of protesters grew, federal agents and local officers dispersed, without incident. Police officers question a driver at a roadside checkpoint in Washington's Northwest quadrant Wednesday night. (Tasos Katopodis / Getty Images) The Metropolitan Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the checkpoint and any arrests. Members of the National Guard, roughly 800 of whom were activated this week to support law enforcement in the city, were not seen at the checkpoint. A White House official said Wednesday that the deployment of National Guard troops would be significantly higher throughout the week, and that the operation would expand from evening shifts to working around the clock. The increased law enforcement presence has drawn mixed reactions from D.C.-area residents some are praising the crackdown on crime, while others are criticizing Trump for his administration's tactics. "I know every inch of the city, and to have seen over the years the deterioration of public places, either with graffiti or with people who are homeless, I couldnt be more encouraged by the fact that there are people now that really want to say, 'Stop, lets make this better,'" said Christopher Her, a Maryland resident who previously worked in D.C. Morgan Komlo, who's lived in Washington for 10 years, disputed Trump's characterization of the city as unsafe, pointing to falling violent crime rates. She called Trump's news conference announcing the federalization of the city's police "scary" and warned that a further exertion of executive power could result in protests. "I thought it was scary," Komlo said. "I also have lived here long enough to know D.C. is not going to stand for much, and I was here in 2016 when there was a lot of protesting" after Trump won the election. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser on Tuesday characterized Trump's takeover of local police as an "authoritarian push" during a virtual event she held with constituents during which she rejected the president's assertion that there's been a spike in crime. But the Democratic mayor conceded that while she opposes Trump's actions, he has the authority to carry out his executive order. "We all need to do what we can in our space, in our lane, 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," Bowser said. According to federal data released in January, violent crime in the district for 2024 was at its lowest level in more than three decades, and down 35% from the previous year. In Monday's order, Trump cited several high-profile violent acts in justifying his decision to deploy National Guard troops and take control of the D.C. police, including the fatal shootings of a congressional intern in June and two Israeli Embassy staffers in May. The directive to federalize D.C. police lasts for the 30-day maximum, barring legislation passed by Congress to extend that period. Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday that he plans to submit a bill that will include a request to extend his police takeover. 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. Passage of such a bill would be highly unlikely since it would need Democratic support in the Senate. National Guard troops began arriving in D.C. on Tuesday, the first tranche of nearly 800 soldiers activated by the Army to assist law enforcement in carrying out Trump's order. Roughly 30 National Guard troops were on the ground Tuesday evening, joining 750 uniformed Metropolitan Police Department officers in conducting anti-crime operations across the city. A senior Army official told NBC News that the 800 National Guard troops are expected to be operational by the end of the week. Roughly 100-200 of those troops will be supporting law enforcement at any given time once all of them are deployed, according to a spokesperson for the Army. The primary focus of their work is providing law enforcement administrative help and protecting federal personnel and property, multiple U.S. officials told NBC News. The troops are not expected to engage in direct law enforcement activities. According to data provided by the administration, federal law enforcement personnel have helped make more than 100 arrests since Monday, a third of which have resulted in firearm-related charges. Including the federalized D.C. officers, more than 1,450 personnel participated in Tuesday's effort, according to administration figures Wednesday. That count included dozens of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who are joining personnel from the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Secret Service. Roughly 40 agents within the Homeland Security Investigations division, which typically focuses on long-term probes into transnational crimes, have joined federal personnel in an effort to mitigate crime in the city irrespective of whether those crimes are directly related to immigration. Combating unlawful immigration, a consistent focal point of Trump's presidency, is also playing a role in Trump's D.C. police takeover, with agents from ICE's Enforcement Removal Operation carrying out "targeted" stings this week to arrest immigrants. A spokesperson for ICE said that an operation at a Home Depot "resulted in arrests of criminal illegal aliens convicted of assault, theft and gang activity." The President was clear, he will make DC safe and beautiful again, and ICE is proud to be a part of the solution alongside our federal law enforcement partners. This includes both immigration enforcement and efforts to combat crime in support of the US Marshals Service," the spokesperson said in a statement. Florida will open a second immigration detention, processing and deportation facility, dubbed "Deportation Depot" by Gov. Ron DeSantis, in about two weeks. The new site, at the Baker Correctional Institution near Lake City in the northeast part of the state, will house more than 1,300 people, the governor and other state officials announced at an Aug. 14 news conference. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will use the nearby Lake City Gateway Airport to transport immigrants. "This is a priority for the people of our state; it's a priority for the people of this country," DeSantis said. The state had intended to use the Florida National Guard's nearby Camp Blanding as its second immigrant detention facility, but DeSantis said the Baker Correctional Institution would be more economical, costing about $6 million to get it "up and running." The facility was originally closed because of a staffing shortage within the Florida Department of Corrections, but DeSantis said the Florida National Guard will staff the center. (Baker Correctional Institution is not the same as the Baker County Detention Center, which is already an ICE detention facility.) Baker Correctional Institution in Sanderson, Baker County, Florida, Wednesday, March 14, 2018. [Will Dickey/Florida Times-Union] DeSantis said using Baker Correctional Institution, or Baker CI, would require "a lot less standing up than we would do at Blanding and far less than we had to do at Alligator Alcatraz." The state has poured money into the site in the Everglades, formally known as the South Florida Detention Facility, which opened July 1. Less than a month in, state contracts showed the facility cost more than $250 million to set up and it is expected to cost $450 million per year. DeSantis: Feds will reimburse state for immigration enforcement costs DeSantis has said the federal government will reimburse the state for its immigration enforcement. Kevin Guthrie, head of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said the agency has been working with the feds for the past three months to receive a $605 million grant. The feds have also recently infused $170 billion for immigration and border-related activities for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in what's known as the Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a massive tax and spending law. More: Big Beautiful Bill 101: What you need to know about the new law State Immigration Enforcement Council Director Larry Keefe criticized the "weaponized judiciary with the leftist lawyers" and the media "distorting facts" for "peripheral flank attacks," saying they're trying to obstruct the state's immigration detention efforts. Friends of the Everglades, a conservation group, and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida are suing the state, alleging the detention facility in Big Cypress National Preserve "poses serious threats to the sensitive Everglades ecosystem, endangered species, clean water and dark night skies." U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams issued a temporary restraining order to halt any further construction of the South Florida Detention Facility and said she will issue a decision before the order expires on Aug. 21. Police officers park outside Alligator Alcatraz in Ochopee, Florida, during the vigil Aug. 10, 2025. Florida officials have said that once capacity at the South Florida Detention Facility was reached, they would look at opening another facility at Camp Blanding, a training center for the Florida National Guard in Clay County. Currently, there are 1,000 people detained at the South Florida Detention Facility, and there's capacity to hold 2,000. DeSantis said the federal government is "ramping up" removal flights from the South Florida facility. While the state operates the facility, the removal of undocumented immigrants is under federal jurisdiction. But DeSantis also said opening the South Florida Detention Facility has caused an increase of immigrants taking the state's "Voluntary Departure" option. The program is a collaboration between U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and the state, where Florida buys commercial flights for migrants as an alternative to detention. The state has not disclosed whether taxpayer dollars are being used to buy the tickets, how many tickets have been bought so far this year and to which countries these flights were headed to. 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 to open second immigration detention facility Fox 2 Detroit/YouTube 4 Shot at Retirement Home in Detroit NEED TO KNOW A shooting at a Michigan senior living complex Monday night left four people in the hospital Police initially said the shooting happened because the suspect was upset over loud music, but a neighbor says it was because of a "love triangle" dispute Detroit Police Deputy Chief Arnold Williams said the shooting was "so ridiculous in nature that you cant even explain it" Four people shot at a Michigan senior living complex Monday night were taken to the hospital and one resident says it all happened over a "love triangle" that turned violent. The shooting happened around 9:30 p.m. local time on Monday, Aug. 11, when police said a man approached a group of other residents hosting a barbecue in the backyard of the senior complex and opened fire, according to local WXYZ, Fox 2, and Click On Detroit. He came down and started firing shots, Detroit Police Deputy Chief Arnold Williams told reporters outside the scene, according to Click On Detroit. Three people were wounded by his firing those shots. During that time when he was firing shots, one of the individuals who was shot tackled the shooter. Took him to the ground. He dropped his weapon when a good Samaritan picked it up and, in self-defense, fired the weapon and wounded the shooter. The outlet reported that all four people wounded in the incident were listed in stable condition afterwards at Detroit Receiving Hospital. Williams initially told reporters Monday that the shooting appeared to stem from a resident being upset with the noise coming from the barbecue. This is a shooting that is so ridiculous in nature that you cant even explain it, Williams said. But what a neighbor told Fox 2 the next day made the situation and its potential motive all the more ridiculous. The outlet spoke with neighbor Reginal Ervin, who told Fox 2 hes lived in the senior living complex for the last six years. "I know everything thats going on," Ervin told Fox 2. "[It was a] love triangle. He said he was gonna kill him and thats what he said he was going to do." Ervin told the outlet that the shooter was a man in his early 70s whose love interest, a 65-year-old woman, began dating a new man in his 70s and in a wheelchair. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Ervin said the shooter shot the new boyfriend and two others before someone tackled him, causing him to drop the gun. His love interest, the 65-year-old woman, picked up the gun and then shot him. Another neighbor told WXYZ that this kind of petty junk happens around here often. Age really doesnt matter, man, 60, 70. Some people are thugs for life. It just happens," Joe Nathan Piper told WXYZ. They just get older and stupider. A spokesperson with the Detroit Police Department told PEOPLE the shooting "is still under investigation" and that an update on the alleged motive "will be provided at a later date and time. " Read the original article on People Google announced a new, AI-powered way to search for flights. The new Flight Deals tool is rolling out to U.S. users over the next week. Google's new tool lets users search for flight options using natural language, rather than having to go through the tedium of searching for an endless combination of dates and destinations to find a good deal. "Instead of playing with different dates, destinations and filters to uncover the best deals, you can just describe when, where and how youd like to travel as though youre talking to a friend and Flight Deals will take care of the rest," a statement from Google about the new product said. I tried it out myself by searching for "A long weekend trip to somewhere with good hiking, not departing from Newark for less than $500," since I live in Queens, New York, and Newark Liberty International Airport is inconvenient for me to get to when the other two major airports for the city are so close by. Sample search on Google's new Flight Deals tool. Google came back with a variety of domestic and international destinations that fit my description. "What makes Flight Deals unique is that it uses Googles advanced AI to understand the nuances of what youre looking for and identify matching destinations. Then, itll tap into real-time Google Flights data to quickly show you relevant, up-to-date options from hundreds of airlines and booking sites," Google's release said. Flight Deals is still in beta testing, but a Google spokesperson told USA TODAY it expects the rollout to be complete in the U.S. in the next week or so, if not sooner. (This story was updated to to correct a misspelling/typo.) 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: Googles new AI flight search lets you plan trips by describing them SPRINGFIELD, IL Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has signed new legislation requiring law enforcement agencies in the state to perform more comprehensive reviews of prospective officers, prompted by the 2024 shooting of Sonya Massey, a Black woman who was shot in the face while in her home by a sheriff's deputy. Top provisions of the bill, according to Illinois State Sen. Doris Turner, include making sure that hiring agencies have a candidate's full employment history, creating merit boards for hiring sheriff's deputies in significantly smaller jurisdictions, and ensuring more comprehensive employment vetting rules apply to all law enforcement agencies, from township police to park police. Pritzker signed the legislation, called the Sonya Massey Act, on Aug. 12. Turner, who represents the 48th district that encompasses an area from Springfield to Decatur, told USA TODAY that writing and introducing the bill was the "most important" work of her 25-year legislative career. "I really believe that with this legislation, had it been there before, Sonya may still be alive," said Turner, who sponsored the bill. "We can't mandate who people hire but we can make sure they have all the info about their applicants thats available." State Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, tries to hold back tears as she speaks at the signing of the Sonya Massey Act at the Illinois State Capitol on Aug. 12, 2025. What happened to Sonya Massey? Massey, 36, a mother of two children, was killed inside her Springfield home on July 6, 2024, when Sangamon County Sheriff's Deputy Sean P. Grayson shot her while responding to Massey's call about a possible intruder. Gruesome video of the encounter shows the deputy firing on an unarmed Massey as she apologized and ducked for cover. Her death sparked national outcry and widespread protests over police brutality, later prompting a Justice Department investigation. State and local officials also called for a review of the sheriff's office's hiring practices after it was revealed that Grayson had a history of complaints involving women. The sheriff who hired Grayson later resigned amid vociferous criticism. Grayson was fired from his position after he was indicted on multiple charges, including murder. He is scheduled to stand trial in Peoria County on Oct. 20. Did law enforcement help craft the bill? Following Masseys death, former law enforcement officers and experts told USA TODAY that loose vetting requirements created the conditions for questionable candidates to get hired. Turner said the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and the Illinois Sheriffs' Association helped develop the bill with legislators to prevent something similar from happening. Illinois Chiefs of Police Association Executive Director Kenny Winslow said the association believes there should be minimum background standards for individuals seeking to protect and serve communities. "We are one step closer to ensuring that background checks will be more thorough and only those candidates of the highest moral character will be among the police force," Winslow said. Illinois legislators believe the bill is the first of its kind to put such stringent employment vetting requirements for law enforcement agencies. Gov. JB Pritzker is surrounded by Sonya Massey's family and Illinois lawmakers as he signs the Sonya Massey Act on Aug. 12, 2025. Masseys family watched the governor sign the bill Pritzker signed the bill under the watchful eye of Donna Massey, the mother of Sonya Massey. Sonya Massey's father, James Wilburn of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and her two children, Malachi and Summer, both of Springfield, were also in attendance, as was civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represented the Massey family in a $10 million civil settlement against Sangamon County. Pritzker, who met with the Massey family last summer after the shooting, said Sonya Massey was in his thoughts. "She loved and she was loved and was taken from us far too soon," Pritzker said before the signing. "What we do today should serve as an example across the nation for other states and other jurisdictions." 74571326007 What's in the bill? The measure, according to Pritzker, helps to prevent similar tragedies and better equips law enforcement to "keep our communities safe, and to continue working to build a justice system that protects all of our citizens." Officers with histories of serious disciplinary issues "should not be serving in those capacities in our communities, and those histories should not come to light only after disaster happens," Pritzker added. Turner said she was especially proud to collaborate with the Illinois Sheriffs Association and the Illinois Chiefs of Police "to determine necessary guardrails to ensure we have good officers on our street protecting and serving our communities. The measure, known as Senate Bill 1953, ensures an officer's fitness for duty as a police officer before an employment offer is made. The law expands the creation of sheriffs merit boards and sheriffs merit commissions for counties with a population of at least 75,000. The Illinois House and Illinois Senate overwhelmingly passed the bill with bipartisan support. What to know about Sean P. Grayson Hired by the department in May 2023 and paid just over $56,000 annually, Grayson arrived in Sangamon County with a litany of missteps to his name, including two DUIs, a discharge from the U.S. Army for "serious misconduct," and complaints against him from the people he policed as well as from law enforcement officers. He'd also had five law enforcement jobs since 2020, some of them part-time and overlapping with each other. The Sangamon Sheriff's Department's hiring interview warned that Grayson "needs to slow down to make good decisions." They hired him anyway. A USA TODAY review of public records also found he had been the subject of several complaints alleging belligerent behavior toward women. Family 'cautiously optimistic' Turner, a longtime friend of several generations of the Massey family, said she spoke to Massey about a week before the fatal shooting. Massey "was not just a constituent or someone I casually knew," Turner said, adding she's known several generations of Masseys. Massey's cousin, Sontae Massey, said he was elated about the signing, but "cautiously optimistic." "We will savor the small victories, but we understand that this is the beginning of an arduous journey for justice and equity," he told The State Journal-Register, part of the USA TODAY Network. This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Sonya Massey Act requires stricter background checks for police hiring Zach Wilkinson-Pool/Getty Bryan Kohberger NEED TO KNOW Bryan Kohberger, 30, is complaining to prison guards about his treatment by fellow inmates "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day taunting him through the vents in his cell," said Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective A spokesperson for the IDOC could not confirm Kohberger's accusations, but did confirm that the recently admitted inmate is complaining about his treatment behind bars Bryan Kohberger is reportedly being targeted by fellow inmates at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution. The Daily Mail reports that the convicted killer has been constantly complaining to guards about being taunted despite having his own cell and incredibly limited interaction with the rest of the J-Block prison population, where he is being held. "It's driving him crazy," said Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective who now works for the Cold Case Foundation. "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day taunting him through the vents in his cell," he told the outlet. He continued: "Theyre utilizing the vent system. Theyre kicking the doors. Theyre taunting him. And theyre basically, you know, torturing him through, you know, using psychology." Sarah A. Miller/For ProPublica/Tribune News Service via Getty The Idaho Maximum Security Institution McDonough later appeared on NewsNations Banfield, and said: "The good news is the inmates were apparently waiting for him. And when he got there, they are now making his life absolutely miserable." This has led to Kohberger constantly complaining to the guards, who have reportedly told him there is nothing they can do because he is not in any physical danger, according to McDonough. A spokesperson for the Idaho Department of Corrections could not confirm Kohberger's accusations, but did confirm that the recently admitted inmate is complaining about his treatment behind bars. 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. "We are aware of Kohbergers complaints about what he considers taunting. Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison," Public Information Officer Blake Lopez tells PEOPLE. "Bryan Kohberger is housed alone in a cell, and IDOC security staff maintain a safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody." Interactions between inmates are also incredibly limited at the facility, according to Lopez, who says: "Incarcerated individuals in long-term restrictive housing live in single-person cells, are moved in restraints, and are provided showers every other day along with one hour of outdoor recreation daily." Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger on July 23 to four lifetimes in prison without parole for the murders of four University of Idaho students plus 10 years for a burglary charge. He will also be required to pay approximately $250,000 in fines and civil penalties. The convicted murderer, 30, appeared in an Idaho courtroom for his sentencing three weeks after appearing in the same Boise courtroom and confessing to the murders of the four students: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. The four were found brutally stabbed to death inside a Moscow home on Nov. 13, 2022. Read the original article on People New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the Pullman Hotel on May 8, 2025 in Auckland, New Zealand. - Phil Walter/Getty Images 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 Sean Norfleet/Instagram; Elizabeth Lawlor/Instagram Sean Nicholson (left) and Elizabeth Lawlor (right) NEED TO KNOW Sean Nicholson, the eldest grandchild of Jack Nicholson, was arrested in Los Angeles on Aug. 5 on a felony domestic violence charge involving a deadly weapon against his ex-girlfriend, Elizabeth Lawlor, PEOPLE exclusively confirmed That same day, he was booked and bailed out on a bond of $50,000 On August 11, Elizabeth Lawlor filed a restraining order with the Santa Monica court, which was temporarily granted On a sunbaked Los Angeles afternoon this past July 23, Elizabeth Lawlor agreed to meet up with her ex-boyfriend, Sean Knight Nicholson the 29-year-old grandson of Hollywood icon Jack Nicholson for what was supposed to be a quiet, civil conversation about his alleged struggles with suicidal ideation. By nightfall, she was allegedly unconscious and bleeding with broken teeth. What happened in between is now the subject of a felony investigation by the Los Angeles District Attorney's office, a restraining order and a case thats prompting personal and legal scrutiny of a well-known Hollywood family. alamay Sean Nicholson (left) and his grandfather Jack (right). In court documents signed on Aug. 8 and filed three days later which were obtained by PEOPLE Lawlor, 28, recounts the chilling lead-up to that day. She says Nicholson, fresh out of rehab and struggling, reached out in crisis. He threatened to take a full bottle of Valium if I did not come over, the restraining order claims. I noticed he had taken pills along with alcohol and cocaine. Lawlor didnt hesitate. According to her account, she also sent text messages from Nicholsons phone messages that allegedly confirmed he was buying narcotics directly to his mother, Jennifer Nicholson, daughter of Jack. Nicholson, a recovering addict allegedly diagnosed with schizophrenia, has a history of mixing prescription medication with illicit substances, per a police reports summary of Lawlors statements. I sent these to his mother as he was supposed to be sober and I did not want to be near him if he were on drugs," she claimed in the restraining order. But whatever intentions she had for that meeting quickly unraveled. What began as a conversation reportedly escalated into a vicious fight, centering around alleged infidelity and Nicholsons drug relapse a betrayal that, a source and her account of the police report claim, cut deep for Lawlor, who had stood by him during earlier recovery efforts and believed he was sober. Then came the alleged violence. At around 5:30 p.m., according to a police report reviewed by PEOPLE, Nicholson allegedly grabbed Lawlor by the neck and head and threw her into an unidentified hard object. She reportedly blacked out. Then he put his hands on my head and neck and then my teeth were broken, she claims in the restraining order. "He pushed me down and I briefly lost consciousness and noticed my teeth had been knocked out. I wanted to leave and he held me down." Elizabeth Lawlor/Instagram Elizabeth Lawlor. She alleges that she tried to leave, but Nicholson stole her phone. Eventually I was able to leave when I started screaming. He put me in chokeholds, would not let me leave apartment. He would often threaten to harm himself if I left. Lawlor claims in the restraining order that her "front teeth were knocked out upon force" and Nicholson allegedly "cut my airway off when he put me in a chokehold." Dazed and in pain, Lawlor allegedly fled the apartment and was found by a security guard. Shortly after, Nicholson escorted her back upstairs, according to the police report. Victim stated that she blacked out and when she opened her eyes realized her tooth had broken, reads the official investigative report. "Finally I was allowed to leave," Lawlor claimed in the restraining order. "The security guard in the building saw me come and go. He called the paramedic." The reunion, intended as a peace offering, became just another violent chapter in a relationship marked by chaos and alleged abuse. Lawlor began dating Nicholson in April 2023, and according to the restraining order, he abused her almost every day for four years until recently. "He would constantly call on various numbers, including blocked calls, multiple emails over the years," Lawlor alleges in the restraining order, where she notes she's spent over $36,000 in medical, ambulance and therapy costs due to the alleged violence. Chris Weeks/WireImage Jennifer Nicholson (left) and her father Jack Nicholson (right). She later sent photos of her injuries her teeth and bruised face to Jennifer Nicholson, according to the restraining order. Thats when Jennifer made the call to 911. "I texted the mother of Sean Knight Nicholson and she called the police," Lawlor recounted. Two officers arrived shortly after. Lawlor, in visible pain, was transported to Cedars-Sinai Marina Del Rey Hospital by ambulance. She received reconstructive emergency dental surgery, according to the medical records. After a CT scan was performed, there were no findings of brain hemorrhaging. She spent $4,374.00 for new teeth, per a Beverly Hills dentist bill. On August 7, the LAPD arrested Nicholson on a felony charge of corporal injury on a spouse or cohabitant. He was booked for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon the weapon being his hands, feet and teeth, the report notes. He was released the same day on $50,000 bond and is set to appear in court on August 26. If convicted, he could face up to four years in state prison. Nicholson has not commented on the allegations. Requests for comment from his representatives, his mother and Jack Nicholsons team have gone unanswered multiple times. Two weeks after the alleged incident, on August 11, a judge granted Lawlor a temporary restraining order. Nicholson is ordered to stay 100 yards away from Lawlor. A court hearing to determine whether it will become permanent is scheduled for September 2 at the Santa Monica courthouse. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Read the original article on People Jason Momoa is opening up about a scary near-death experience that inspired a major lifestyle change. The "Chief of War" star, 46, revealed on the Aug. 11 episode of the "SmartLess" podcast that he once nearly died in a surfing accident. The incident occurred when Momoa's surfboard leash "snapped" while he was almost a mile off shore on the island of Maui. "It's so windy on Maui, and so the board just went," he said. "I couldn't even see it anymore." He continued, "I took quite a few on the head. They were pretty big, like 10-foot Hawaiian waves. I'm literally probably a half-mile offshore. ... There's all this water that pulls out. It pulls you out, and you just get hit with these waves, so I was stuck in this crazy spot." Jason Momoa attends the premiere of "Chief of War" on July 18, 2025, in Kapolei, Hawaii. Momoa said no one could see him while he was waving for help. "I was out there for a while," he recalled. "I couldn't see anyone coming to get me, and I couldn't move anymore. My arms and my legs gave up." Jason Momoa shares shocking transformation as he shaves off his iconic beard The "Aquaman" actor "couldn't move my arms anymore" and "bubbled down," he said, adding, "I'm literally in the middle of the ocean, and I can barely put my lips above, just to breathe and get a break, but I had already given up. (I'd) already given up and died." After around 10 minutes of "hanging on the side of this reef," Momoa said he was rescued by surfer Laird Hamilton, who came from behind to get him. The two then had to paddle for miles while Momoa's feet were "covered in blood." Jason Momoa attends the premiere of "A Minecraft Movie" on March 30, 2025, in London, England. The "Dune" star, who prayed to his ancestors for help while he was out there, shared that this is what inspired him to finally quit smoking. Jason Momoa's children support him in rare outing at 'Chief of War' premiere: Photos "I used to smoke like two or three packs a day," he said. "I couldn't stop for my kids, I couldn't stop for my ex. I couldn't stop smoking. The moment I came in, I never smoked again. I just died. I tried and tried, but I couldn't do it again, because I gave up my life." Momoa was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and comes from "one of the biggest surf families in Hawaii," he noted on "SmartLess." The actor previously worked at his family's surf shop. Momoa is currently starring on the Hawaiian historical epic "Chief of War" on Apple TV+, and he recently teased his return as Duncan Idaho in the third "Dune" film," which is set for release in 2026. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jason Momoa reveals surfing near-death experience FILE - Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, speaks during a hearing of the Homeland Security Subcommittee of the House Committee on Appropriations on Capitol Hill, April 10, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) HOUSTON (AP) A judge on Thursday granted a request by federal prosecutors to dismiss two of the 14 counts against U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas and his wife, as part of a federal bribery and conspiracy indictment. The judge also ordered that their trial, which had been set for September, be rescheduled for next year. Prosecutors with the U.S. Justice Department had asked U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal to dismiss two counts that Cuellar and his wife had each faced related to violating the prohibition on public officials acting as agents of a foreign principal. Federal authorities have charged Cuellar, 69, and his wife, Imelda Cuellar, with accepting thousands of dollars in exchange for the congressman advancing the interests of an Azerbaijan-controlled energy company and a bank in Mexico. Cuellar is accused of agreeing to influence legislation favorable to Azerbaijan and deliver a pro-Azerbaijan speech on the floor of the U.S. House. The payments to the couple initially went through a Texas-based shell company owned by Imelda Cuellar and two of the couples children, according to the indictment. Cuellar has said he and his wife are innocent. Prosecutors said they were dismissing the two counts following a February memorandum from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi that shifted the focus of charges filed under the Foreign Agents Registration Act. The law is aimed at ensuring transparency about lobbying efforts done in the U.S. at the direction of foreign governments or principals. Bondis memorandum said that such charges shall be limited to instances of alleged conduct similar to more traditional espionage by foreign government actors. During a Zoom court hearing, Rosenthal said she was set to file an order granting the prosecutions motion to dismiss the two counts. Cuellar and his wife each still face 12 charges, including conspiracy, bribery and money laundering. Rosenthal also granted a request from both prosecutors and attorneys for the Cuellars to reschedule their trial in Houston. The couples trial had been set to begin Sept. 22. Rosenthal agreed to move it to April 6. The trial is expected to last five weeks, prosecutors said. Stephen Dockery, one of Cuellar's lawyers, asked Rosenthal to dismiss the entire indictment because the remaining charges rely on the allegations tied to the dismissed counts and accusations that fall under the Foreign Agents Registration Act. Theres no reason to strike the indictment, Rosaleen OGara, one of the prosecutors, told Rosenthal. The judge did not immediately rule on the request to dismiss the remaining counts of the indictment. Cuellar has served in Congress for over 20 years, and his district stretches from San Antonio to the U.S.-Mexico border in South Texas. In May, Rosenthal denied a request by lawyers for the Cuellars to move their trial from Houston to their hometown of Laredo, Texas, about 315 miles (507 kilometers) southwest along the U.S.-Mexico border. Since Cuellars indictment in April 2024, three people have pleaded guilty in connection with the case: Colin Strother, one of Cuellars top former aides; Florencio Rendon, a Texas political and business consultant; and Irada Akhoundova, who was director of a Texas affiliate of an Azerbaijan energy company. ___ Follow Juan A. Lozano: https://x.com/juanlozano70 NEED TO KNOW At least nine children and the driver of a school bus have been injured after it crashed and rolled over in Texas The incident took place in Austin on Wednesday, Aug. 13 Students were traveling home from their first day of school when the crash occurred, according to reports Multiple children have been left injured after a school bus carrying over 40 students crashed in Austin, Texas. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, the Travis County Emergency Services District revealed in a press release that a Leander Independent School District bus had been carrying 43 individuals when it rolled over on Nameless Road near Honeycomb Lane. The incident took place on the first day of the new school year at around 3:00 p.m, according to ABC News and NBC News. The release confirmed that nine students and the bus driver had been transported to local medical facilities for evaluation and treatment, while a reunification center was set up at Round Mountain Church for the remaining 33 students to be "safely reunited with their families. A total of 12 people are reported to be injured, according to ABC News. Travis County Emergency Services The damaged school bus The emergency services district then thanked the agencies that assisted, which included Leander Fire Department, Cedar Park Fire Department, Pflugerville Fire (Travis County ESD 2), Austin-Travis County EMS and STAR Flight. Of the injured, one patient's injuries are described as life-threatening while two other's are potentially life-threatening, per ABC News and NBC News. Travis County Emergency Services The damaged school bus following the crash in Austin, Texas The remaining injured people are reported to have non life-threatening injuries. PEOPLE has contacted the Travis County Emergency Services Department and the Leander Independent School District for further comment. Travis County Emergency Services Travis County Emergency Services crew Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. An official with the Texas Department of Public Safety told press that the bus drove to the right before rolling over, per NBC News. There was reportedly a slight curve in the road. In pictures shared by Travis County Emergency Services District, the bus was seen damaged as it lay on its side while surrounded by trees. Superintendent of the Leander Independent School District, Bruce Gearing, told ABC News that the bus driver was well experienced, adding that the bus would mainly carry elementary school students. This part of our Leander ISD family has been through so much already this summer with the floods and this tragedy this afternoon is really breaking our hearts, he told the outlet. 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 that we can in our power to support them. The incident marked the third school bus crash in three days in Texas. The first two incidents involved Cleveland Independent School District buses, with one occurring on Monday when a bus flipped on its side into a ditch, while the second saw a bus end up on its side after rolling over on Wednesday. Read the original article on People 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. 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 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." 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 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. 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 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." 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 Massachusetts State Police reported finding a dead body on a beach near Boston, but it was just a blanket. Its no Weekend at Bernies. Massachusetts police spent Wednesday morning roping off parts of a popular public beach after receiving reports of an unattended death that turned out to be a crumpled-up blanket, authorities said. Massachusetts State Police arrived at Revere Beach, a summer hotspot just 6 miles northwest of Boston, around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday to probe the grim report. Massachusetts State Police reported finding a dead body on a beach outside of Boston, but it was just a blanket. Google Video captured by a passerby showed five officials standing on the beach cordoning off a large section of the three-mile shore with yellow caution tape while a sixth person waded into the sea. A police boat was also further out off the shore, according to the footage. Police originally described the situation as an unattended death. They said they found what they believed to be a dead body on the beach wrapped in a sheet, according to Boston 25. But when officers opened the bulky, corpse-shaped blanket expecting to make a grisly discovery, it was empty, cops later corrected. Its been confirmed that the item in question is a large blanket rolled up. There has been no body of any type recovered, Sergeant Gregory Jones confirmed in a statement to the local outlet. Its unclear how the corpse-shaped blanket wound up on the beach. Wangkun Jia stock.adobe.com Its unclear how the blanket turned up on the shore in the first place, or if it was left by a spacey beachgoer the night before. The hasty authorities turned all further questions over to the Massachusetts district attorneys office. In a similarly odd case in Idaho earlier this month, cops there spent three hours searching for a reported corpse in a river, only to find a life-sized sex doll floating downstream. The team spared no expense and even rolled out a full drone search while looking for what was nothing more than an inflatable plaything. Still, authorities had no regrets, noting how disastrous the situation couldve been if a real person had fallen into the water and theyd opted not to go all out. Bottles of beer and strong alcohol are seen at a Lidl grocery store supermarket in Warsaw, Poland, on Oct. 28, 2023. Credit - Jaap ArriensNurPhoto/Getty Images The percentage of adults in the U.S. who report drinking alcohol is at a record low, according to a Gallup poll released on Wednesday. Only 54% of adults said they consume alcoholthe smallest share since Gallup started tracking Americans drinking behavior in 1939. And a majority of Americans (about 53%) said they believe that even just one or two drinks a day is bad for their health. Thats a leap from the roughly 25% of Americans who held this view from 2001 through 2011. Even the Americans who said they do drink alcohol reported consuming less of it than those in past polls. Just 24% said theyd had a drink in the past 24 hoursanother record low. And 40% said they hadnt had an alcoholic beverage in more than a weekthe highest figure in more than two decades. The decline is a recent one: From 1997 to 2023, the percentage of Americans who said they drank alcohol was 60% or higher, according to Gallup. That number dropped from 62% in 2023 to 58% in 2024 before reaching the record-low seen this year. Why are Americans drinking less? Researchers said these results, which were part of Gallups annual Consumption Habits survey conducted in July, coincide with a growing body of research in recent years that has indicated that any amount of alcohol consumption may have negative health ramifications. While some studies over the years have indicated drinking moderate amounts of alcohol could have possible benefits, many health experts now say that there is substantial evidence of the risks associated with alcohol. In 2023, the World Health Organization said, When it comes to alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount that does not affect health. And at the start of this year, then-U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy proposed putting a label on bottles of beer, wine, and liquor to warn Americans that alcohol is a leading cause of cancer. Lydia Saad, Gallup Director of U.S. Social Research, stresses that her analysis of the poll notes a correlation between declining alcohol use and a growing percentage of Americans who believe moderate drinking is unhealthyrather than asserting that the concerns are causing the trend. Dr. Ellen Burnham, a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine who was not involved in the Gallup poll, says she was a little surprised by Gallups findings because she has often treated patients with alcohol-related conditions or complications, particularly in the past few years. While the research on the risks of alcohol consumption could be part of the reason for declining alcohol use, she says that might not be the whole explanation and posits other theories as well, including that some people might not have the disposable income to buy alcohol or may have pre-existing health conditions that could make them less inclined to drink. According to Saads analysis, it doesnt appear that the decline in alcohol use is being caused by people turning to other mood-altering substances, based on previous data. Although marijuana use, for instance, has increased in the past decade, that number has been relatively stable in recent years. Burnham says its promising that the Gallup poll found that fewer people are drinking overall. But she points out that many Americans still drink and have alcohol-related health complications, and that alcohol consumption varies depending on geographic region. I think it remains to be seen whether the decline in alcohol consumption will continue, Burnham says. Its encouraging to see that some of the educational messaging is hopefully reaching an audience, and hopefully its the audience thats engaging in risky drinking and is really rethinking about their drinking habits and how to diminish them or decrease them. Younger people lead the trendbut fewer older adults are drinking, too For years, younger adults have been less likely to say they drink alcohol compared to middle-aged and older adults, according to Saads analysis. That trend has only continued: 59% of younger adults in 2023 said they drank alcohol, compared to 50% in 2025. Experts who previously spoke with TIME suggested that a decline in drinking among younger adults could be driven by a variety of factors, including changing views of alcohol and socialization patterns in the age group. But fewer middle-aged and older adults are reporting drinking now compared to a couple years ago as well. Older folks have lived through the period when the medical advice was drinking could be beneficial to you, so hearing that its now harmful to your health is a 180 for them and so they have to mentally move a bigger distance to say maybe I shouldnt be drinking, Saad says, explaining a possible explanation behind this trend. Younger adults, meanwhile, have likely heard about the risks associated with alcohol since they became old enough to drink, so its not, I think, as much of a behavior change for them as it would be for their parents and grandparents who have to do a real pivot in terms of how they look at the risks of drinking, she continues. A partisan split emerges In previous years, researchers found little difference in the drinking behaviors of people with varying political leanings. But the percentage of Republicans who report drinking has fallen significantly over the past couple years, according to Gallups findings, opening a notable partisan gap. In 2023, 65% of Republicans said they drink, but that number plummeted to 46% in 2025. Meanwhile, that figure for Democrats has remained relatively steady, dropping just 3 percentage points from 64% in 2023 to 61% in 2024, and holding at 61% in 2025. Saad says analysts found that the declining alcohol use was largely just across the board among Republicans. More research would need to be conducted to determine the reason for the partisan split, she says: so far, theres no theory strong enough to explain it. Contact us at letters@time.com. Wildfires continue to intensify across southern Europe with a round-the-clock battle to protect the perimeter of Greece's 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 hospitalised or received medical attention for burns, smoke inhalation or exhaustion, he added. 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. 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. Firefighters work to extinguish a wildfire near the city of Patras, western Greece on August 13, 2025. Greece on August 13, 2025 battled to contain more than 20 wildfires including one menacing its third-largest city Patras as a heatwave stoked blazes and forced the evacuation of thousands in southern Europe (AFP/Getty) 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. 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. 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." 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. Firefighters work to extinguish a wildfire approaching Trancoso, Portugal, August 13, 2025. REUTERS/Pedro Nunes TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY (Reuters) 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. 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. 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. 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." Firefighters work to extinguish a wildfire in the outskirts of Abejera de Tabara, Zamora, Spain, August 13, 2025. REUTERS/Susana Vera (Reuters) Spain is seeking help from its European partners, 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. 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. Nicholas Rossi has been found guilty of rape (ASSOCIATED PRESS) A man who allegedly faked his own death to avoid rape charges has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend. Nicholas Rossi, of Rhode Island, was convicted Wednesday in the first of two trials in Utah. A Salt Lake County jury found him guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial. His accuser and her parents testified during the proceedings. The verdict was handed down just hours after 38-year-old Rossi declined to testify in his own defense. He will be sentenced on October 20. Rossi at his jury trial in Salt Lake City Rossi is also due to stand trial in September in Utah County on another rape charge. An online obituary claimed that Rossi died on February 29, 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, police in his home state, along with his former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was actually dead. He was arrested in Scotland in 2021 while receiving treatment for Covid-19 after hospital staff in Glasgow recognized his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Rossi was extradited to Utah in January 2024 after losing an extradition appeal, in which he claimed he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. Who is Nicholas Rossi? Rossi was born as Nicholas Alahverdian in Rhode Island, in July 1987 to Diana and Jack Alahverdian, according to reports in US newspaper The Providence Journal. He was adopted by his stepfather David Rossi, and changed his surname to Rossi. Nicholas Rossi speaks during a live-streamed extradition hearing He grew up in Rhode Island foster homes and made a name for himself as a vocal critic of the states Department of Children, Youth and Families. According to his former lawyer, Rossi had moved to Ireland in 2019 but the exact location is unclear. A sealed arrest warrant for the Orem Utah rape was issued in 2020 after he was identified as a suspect a decade after the alleged incident. That delay was due to a backlog of DNA test kits at Utah State Crime Lab. Under the guise of Arthur Brown, Rossi is believed to have met his wife, Miranda Knight, in Bristol in 2019 and married her in early 2020, assuming the name Arthur Knight. The pair moved up to Glasgow in 2021 where he claimed to be a professor teaching at the University of Glasgow. Miranda Knights brother, Kevin Knight, told the Daily Record in 2022 that she had been distraught when accusations came to light and that she was in denial, believing the police had the wrong man. He also said that Rossi had always spoken with a thick Irish accent and never spoke about his family. Rossi was extradited to the US after losing his final appeal in December 2023. The author's family was able to reconnect in Maine. Courtesy of Rebecca Hastings As my teens grow up, I feel like time is slipping away, so I booked a family trip to Maine. I worried they wouldn't have fun like they did when they were younger. But we came together as a family, allowing for time to slow down. Driving the narrow street into Northport, Maine, I worried I had made a big mistake. My family has visited before, always loving the cottages and the quaint village feel. But something about this family trip felt different, specifically the ages of my kids. The last time we visited, they thought bike rides were freedom, and finding a piece of sea glass was magical. Now, they drive actual cars, and most of their magic is found on a screen. At 15, 17, and 18, they are racing ahead to find their feet as almost adults. I wasn't sure Northport would hold the same appeal it once did. Luckily, my teens tapped into their younger selves I planned this family vacation because it feels like time is slipping through my fingers. When they were just kids, I wished things would hurry up: When would they walk? Talk? Sleep? Love Business Insider? Add Business Insider as a preferred source on Google to see more of us. Now that those steps are all in the rearview mirror, I find myself waxing nostalgic for the one thing we can't buy on Amazon: time. Pulling up to the cottage, my kids looked up from their phones, a flash of recognition in their eyes. I kept my enthusiasm at bay, not wanting to frighten off their smiles. Still, I couldn't help but exhale as I got out and felt the salty air on my skin. I asked if they wanted to walk to Kelly's Cove, bracing myself for a chorus of "no's." Surprisingly, they all said yes. I watched them mosey down the street ahead of me. The three of them walked shoulder-to-shoulder, bumping into each other the way you do with people you know as well as yourself. Phones were stored in pockets or maybe back at the house. I could hear them laugh and tease one another the way you hope your kids will when they get older. Climbing down the stairs to the rocky shore, each one set out in their own direction. The author's teens loved exploring the cove. Courtesy of Rebecca Hastings "I found one!" I heard one of the kids call, and we all rushed over to see the treasure they discovered. It was a piece of sea glass, worn by years of being tossed in the vast ocean. I could relate. As we marveled at the smooth edges, I wondered if there was ever a better picture of parenting. I hope my edges are smoother now than they were on our last visit. Standing together, a bit of my worry fell away. It wasn't a vacation I was after; the only thing I was trying to escape was turning the calendar page. I was finally able to slow down with my teens The week unfurled like a picnic blanket. We let things settle, embracing the slow, relaxed feel Maine provided. We played cards and went for walks. I read a book, and the kids ventured to the cove again and again, always coming back with handfuls of treasures. Turns out you're never too old to find a treasure if you look hard enough. Our outings involved copious amounts of ice cream and baked goods on our way to places like Camden and Acadia. We explored Belfast and found a hidden trail at Marshall Point Lighthouse. There was no agenda, only a mental bucket list of things like lobster rolls and jumping off the pier. I was even brave enough to leap into the frigid waters as my teens cheered me on. Standing on that pier, I remembered the tiny hands holding mine as we stood in the same spot only years before. Instead of being sad for what was, I felt grateful for what is. I longed for time with my teens before they stepped fully into their own adventures, and these activities gave me that. I got much-needed time with my teens In a world tempted by bigger, fancier vacations, the one thing my family needed was found in the simple things. As we packed up the car at the end of the week, I didn't feel sad. Instead, I felt grateful. Before my trip, I thought I wanted a simple vacation, and in so many ways, Maine was. But even more than simple, I realized what I really wanted was time time with my kids as they grow up. And Maine delivered. Read the original article on Business Insider Beijing's robot shopping fest brings cutting-edge technology to life Xinhua) 09:28, August 14, 2025 BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- As the doors swing open at Beijing's new robot-themed restaurant, diners are greeted by humanoid waiters who nod and speak in lifelike gestures, while robotic servers glide between tables delivering dishes and a robot band plays drums and guitars, turning a meal into a futuristic spectacle. "The restaurant gives me a fresh sense of technology. It's quite an amazing attempt," said Ding Wenjun, a tourist from east China's Jiangxi Province. "It is not only an immersive dining place integrating cuisine, culture and technology, but also provides a scenario for robot application and data collection," said Sun Ling, head of the Robot Restaurant. The tech-savvy restaurant is one of the participants of the E-Town Robot Consumption Festival, running from Aug. 2 to 17, organized by the administrative committee of the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area, also known as Beijing E-Town. The festival also marked the debut of the Robot Mall, a 4,000-square-meter "robot 4S" store, while shopping malls and e-commerce platform JD.com host sales campaigns. Enterprises can enjoy subsidies of up to 250,000 yuan (about 35,039 U.S. dollars) on robot purchases. The Robot Mall features more than 50 products across medical, industrial and companion robotics. For instance, the Galbot G1, a wheeled-chassis humanoid robot, can retrieve medications from shelves and deliver them directly to patients. "It can automatically dispense and distribute medications, alleviating the heavy workload of nurses and reducing risks of human error," said Meng Yanpei, a manager at the mall. "In pharmacies, it serves emergency patients, especially at night, while also lowering operating costs by taking over repetitive tasks." Over 10 pharmacies in Beijing now use Galbot G1, operating 24 hours a day. The robot is priced at 680,000 yuan at the 4S store during the festival, at a discount of 50,000 yuan. As of Tuesday, more than 19,000 robots and related products have been sold during the festival, generating total sales of over 200 million yuan. Meanwhile, the distribution of consumption vouchers has boosted sales by over 60 million yuan, according to the administrative committee of Beijing E-Town. Targeting online consumers, JD.com has showcased over 680 robot products, including quadruped, biped, exoskeleton, and educational and companion robots, offering a maximum subsidy of 600 yuan for a single product. "In the past, these robots were priced in the millions of yuan, but now they are becoming more affordable," said Xu Lei, head of the Intelligent Robot Business Department under the 3C Digital Business Group of JD.com. "We hope to leverage the advantages of online sales, brand support and supply chains to make robots accessible to more consumers." Zhang Hao, chief scientist of ALVA (Beijing) Technology Co., Ltd., said that robots are still in their infancy and are often used mainly for display. "Even though they may stagger while walking, they captivate us because we can sense their intelligence gradually maturing." "Only when robots help customers make money will they buy and keep buying such machines," said Zhang, adding that such machines must be practical, affordable, versatile and of effective use for consumers. Zhang's perspective echoes that of Massimiliano Zecca, a professor of healthcare technology at Loughborough University in the United Kingdom, who said, "Humanoid robots now require an engineering team to look after them. They need to bring real value to form a natural market." Despite the limitations of robots, Zecca was clearly impressed by a humanoid coffee barista crafting intricate latte art at the 2025 World Robot Conference, which concluded on Tuesday. "I would pay for a cup of coffee with artistic flavor. The evolution of humanoid robots will surely provide more choices to meet personal preferences," Zecca said. (Xiong Run, Zhang Yiyi and Dai Ruoxuan also contributed to the story.) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) By Marie Mannes SKI, Norway (Reuters) -Like many Norwegians, Espen Lysholm is not a fan of Elon Musk these days, uncomfortable with the world's richest man's lurch into right-wing politics. He does, however, love Musk's cars. "I'll be honest that it's a bit of a double-edged sword having a Tesla," said Lysholm, who bought a Model Y in May - his third new Tesla in less than a decade. Musk's politics - he helped bankroll Donald Trump's U.S. election win last year and has championed European far-right parties - have sparked a fierce consumer backlash. But while that anger has provoked acts of vandalism against Tesla cars and dealerships and pushed once loyal customers, particularly in Europe, to ditch the brand, sales in tiny Norway are booming, at least for now. "I did think a bit around all that's going on with the company and the brand," said Lysholm, who works at a cartech company in the city of Trondheim. "But it's really all about the charging infrastructure and the seamless technology of the car. No one comes even close." In the first half of this year as Tesla sales plunged by half or more in Germany, Sweden, Denmark and the Netherlands, they grew by 24% year-on-year in Norway, making the country of 5.5 million the company's second-largest European market. Tesla and Musk did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Reuters interviews with Norwegian Tesla owners as well as EV industry experts highlight a 12-year relationship between the Nordic nation and the carmaker that, despite recent signs of strain, has bred brand loyalty and insulated against blowback. "In many ways, you could say Norway helped build Tesla," said Christina Bu, secretary general of the Norwegian EV Association. "Everyone in Norway knows someone who owns a Tesla," she said. "It's more personal." 'NORWAY ROCKS' Though small - its market represented less than 12% of Tesla's European sales in the first half of the year and a tiny fraction of the company's global revenues - Norway holds symbolic importance for the brand. It was the first country outside of North America to receive Tesla's flagship EV, the Model S, in 2013. And the company helped build Norway into the world's leader in EV adoption. Tesla built its first Supercharger network outside of North America in Norway, locking in new customers with the promise of a vast web of fast-charging stations for their EVs. In return, Norway gave Tesla a global showcase for its technology, and Musk, once a regular visitor to the country, praised its government's subsidy-backed EV policies. "Norway rocks," he wrote in 2022 on Twitter, the social media platform he bought and later renamed X. The Model S rapidly became the best-selling car in Norway where EVs now account for 94% of all new vehicle sales. In 2021, Tesla took the title of the country's leading car brand outright and has accounted for between 11% and 20% of total new car registrations in each of the last five years. That dominance, however, is now being challenged. Volkswagen temporarily seized the top spot in the first quarter. Volvo Cars' EV offering is also fast winning over Norwegian drivers. And Chinese manufacturers, including BYD, XPeng and SAIC Motor's brand MG, together seized a 12.3% share of new sales in June. BOYCOTT TO SAVE Tesla is, for now, successfully fending off the growing threats to its crown in Norway and overcoming the popular disenchantment with CEO Musk. New Tesla registrations dipped 4% last year and the early months of 2025 were marked by subdued sales. But Norwegians snapped up its refreshed Model Y SUV, which first came out in March, as well as a lower-priced version released in May. "Having the ease of operation, having a car that fulfills your needs and for a very affordable price, that is much more important to the Norwegian car buyer than dealing with Tesla shame," said Oyvind Solberg Thorsen, head of the Norwegian Road Federation (OFV). A promotional blitz that saw Tesla offer zero-interest financing and free supercharging in May likely contributed to a 213% spike in Tesla's new car registrations. "It's practically free money, so I jumped at it," Lysholm said. The same promotion did not prevent steep sales declines in Nordic neighbours Sweden and Denmark, however, where no Tesla models cracked the list of top-10 sellers in July, according to OFV. The big question for Tesla is whether Norwegians' loyalty to the brand will last. Research from polling agency Norstat published in February showed that 40% of Norway's Tesla owners believe Musk's political activism is hurting the brand, though more than half of Tesla owners polled said they intended to buy another Tesla. Odd Bakken, a Tesla owner since 2014 who once admired Musk as a visionary, won't be one of them. Driving his Model S from Oslo to his home in the southern town of Ski, he told Reuters he still loves the technology. "Tesla was the first electric car that was actually a good car," said Bakken, who at one point sat on the board of the Norwegian Tesla owners club. It was a two-way relationship, with Tesla posting pictures on its social media of Bakken's Model S on a 2014 trip to northern Norway. But after Musk moved to back Trump and rally behind political movements like Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany, he decided Norwegians needed to show their displeasure via their pocketbooks and convince the company to push him out. "To save Tesla, we need to boycott Tesla," he said. That doesn't mean he wouldn't buy a second-hand model though. "Because the company doesn't benefit from us buying their used cars," he said. (Reporting by Marie Mannes; Additional reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis in Arendal and Alessandro Parodi in Gdansk; Editing by Nick Carey, Brian Thevenot, Adam Jourdan and Joe Bavier) 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Our community is divided on compulsory eye tests for drivers over 70 (iStock/Getty) Independent readers were split over the idea of introducing compulsory eyesight tests for drivers over 70, with many arguing testing should apply to all ages rather than singling out older motorists. Several shared examples of younger and middle-aged drivers with dangerously poor vision, suggesting that checks every three years for all licence holders would improve safety. Some pointed to overseas models in Greece and the Philippines where periodic medical and vision checks are mandatory, and suggested the UK could follow suit. Others called instead for targeted testing from 85 onwards, warning that losing a licence could be devastating for rural and working pensioners. While there was consensus that no one should drive with defective eyesight, many stressed that the focus should be on the enforcement of existing laws and tackling risky behaviour by younger drivers. Why pick on over-seventies? asked one. Heres what you had to say: All drivers should be tested, not just over 70s I believe that ALL drivers should be required to take compulsory eye tests, regardless of age, before their first driving test and at three-yearly intervals. I've known people under 60 whose eyesight is poor who still drive, so why just over 70s? My optician needed to prescribe strong glasses for one middle-aged client whose eyesight was abysmal, who then blithely told him she would drive home and pick the specs up when they came in. He had no authority to prevent her or report her. And if anyone is talking about compulsory repeat driving tests not that that is a viable option, given the parlous state of our testing system I would suggest that the first candidates should not be the over 70s but the arrogant young men, 1730, who are the major culprits behind our rising number of accidents. I'm not just talking about speed; it seems that many simply rip up the Highway Code once they've passed and ignore little niceties like signalling, lane discipline or mirror usage. The death toll on American roads is over 40,000 a year. We had just over 1,600, in a population around one-fifth of that in the US, and with a road network that has far fewer wide, straight roads. Their road-death toll is around five times ours per head of population. We could do better, but we could do a whole lot worse. EvanStabetsi An over-85 compromise could work With growing longevity of life, and a likely retirement age of 70 not far away, this sounds like a very premature age to invoke compulsory eye tests. The AA, who have no axe to grind, confirm that young drivers and those over 90 still driving are the most likely to be involved in road accidents where fatalities and serious injuries occur. On balance, I would say an eye test every two years for drivers over 85 sounds like a suitable compromise. I'm 72 so you could argue I do have an axe to grind, but think of those over 70 still working to make ends meet, undertaking voluntary work, those living in rural communities with little or no public transport infrastructure, and the already appallingly treated farmers, many of whom are over 70. If an over-85 fails an eye test, they should be granted a three-month waiver to obtain spectacles or contact lenses to correct their vision before a retest. Being banned would be life-changing in the majority of cases. The vast majority over 70s are not decrepit, know the rules of the road and adhere to them far better than company car drivers, white van man, and those young drivers who think they are Lewis Hamilton. So if you are looking to improve road safety, think hard about the law being enforced properly first. StigStag Over 50s have nothing to fear As a mid-fifties lady, I would say all over the age of 50 should be screened with an eye test that includes a field of vision test. I was diagnosed with a brain lesion at the beginning of the year. Happily, it is now subsiding; however, it was detected with the help of a visit to my local optician and a field of vision test. I was then referred to our main hospital for MRIs, etc., for a diagnosis. I have been assessed by the DVLA and am back driving. So, over 50s have nothing to fear. It's about being honest and transparent. No one wants to be responsible for the death or injury of another road user. We just all need to be prompted to do the sensible thing. Gralcam1969 Self-certification is flawed At 70, you renew your licence every three years, but it's free. However, they send you a medical form to fill in, but you don't need a doctor to certify it as true. My dad drove about three years too long after his early dementia and I felt that he had lost his concentration. Eventually, we had to get his GP to certify him unfit to drive. But had we not done that, he could self-certify his medical status every three years. Mum retired when her cataracts got too bad but she kept her licence for ID purposes after she sold the car. I am in the early stages of cataracts, and if things get too blurry to drive, I'll stop. I already don't drive if arthritis is too bad. But I admit, not everybody is as safe and knows when to stop. If forced to stop at any age, you qualify for a free local concessionary travel pass, which also covers buses nationally. LadyCrumpsall Testing from age 40 is key The eyes are the mirror of your soul. Everyone over the age of 40 should have a compulsory test every three years. An eye test makes it easier, with the technology opticians have now, to establish quickly if you've got any problems like mine did last year to see if the cataract I had had got any worse. I knew it had. Within two months I had my first one done, and within seven weeks I was well on my way to getting over my second one. Eye tests can also tell if you've got any degenerative problems and also cancers. Very important that you look after your eyes. Jol Greeces strict testing regime I live in Greece and have a Greek driving licence. To swap from a UK to a Greek licence I had to go through a medical and an eyesight test. Everyone in Greece who applies for a driving licence has to do the same. Once one reaches 65, these tests (medical and eyesight) are carried out every three years until the age of 80, at which time the new licence is applied for with the tests every two years plus an additional neurological test. At 85, a short driving test is also added. I am currently 72 and have had a Greek licence since I moved here many years ago. Personally, I think medical and eyesight tests should be mandatory for everyone. Problems occur not just in old age. Greekdavid A new industry for testing At 70, we already lose the rights we've earned over the years. I was told that, despite using them for years, a rental company could not rent me a van. Eye tests should be carried out periodically for all drivers; it would create a new industry, similar to CSS tests for building workers. The voluntary system now employed is rather silly and does nothing to stop a driver from keeping the licence if they don't want to lose it. Martyn Consider restricted licences Given the accidents caused by older people with defective eyesight, its very hard to argue against compulsory testing. Yes, losing your licence will have a serious effect on your independence, but that doesnt mean you should be allowed to drive with defective eyesight. Possibly we should consider a restricted licence which would permit driving only in daylight. (I am over 70.) David Why pick on over 70s? I decided not to drive for a year because I was waiting for an eye operation. Yes, regardless of age, you must be able to see. Why pick on over seventies? Most people in their fifties and sixties need their cataracts done. Young people have more accidents than old people, but no one should be driving if they are not capable. Worldtraveller Annual tests over 70 Here in the Philippines you must have an eye test at an approved optician prior to renewing your driving licence every five years, regardless of age. I do think an annual test once over age 70 would be a good idea. Kompani Online screening could work The vast majority of accidents are caused by younger drivers, so regular retesting should apply to all. These days, a reasonable screen could be done online along with checking you are up to date with the Highway Code. LordNelson3 Some of the comments have been edited for this article for brevity and clarity. Want to share your views? Simply register your details below. Once registered, you can comment on the days top stories for a chance to be featured. Alternatively, click log in or register in the top right corner to sign in or sign up. Rachel Aliza Nisanov. (Family handout / via NBC South Florida) A New York teenager has died in a jet ski accident while on a family vacation in Florida. Rachel Aliza Nisanov, 13, was riding on a jet ski with her sister Tuesday in the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale when their watercraft crashed, according to her family and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC preliminary report said the watercraft lost control and crashed into a concrete dock. Fort Lauderdale Fire and Rescue said 911 calls came in around 3:30 p.m. reporting the water accident near the 2800 block of NE 24th Court. Both girls were taken to Broward Health Medical Center, where Rachel died from her injuries. Her 16-year-old sister, Aviva Bracha Nisanov, who was driving the jet ski, remains in critical but stable condition, NBC South Florida reported. The family trip to Florida was to celebrate Rachels graduation, her brother Yonah Nisanov told the station. He remembered his sister as "just a kind person ... a spiritual person. Kindhearted, always going the extra mile." "They were coming back to the dock from what I understand, and they lost control and they hit the dock, and they both went flying and hit the dock," Yonah said. Yonah recalled that their father Shlomo Nisanov, a well-known rabbi in New York was also on a personal watercraft at the time of the crash. After he saw the accident, he jumped into the water, desperately trying to save his girls. "My father doesnt even know how to swim. He jumped in, my sisters were unconscious, their life jackets were on, they were lying flat, and my father jumped in and scraped up his hands, feet, his back all over to save them, and he did what he could, and thank God one of them was able to, and the other one, unfortunately didnt make it," Yonah said. "And we dont understand why it happened, but we believe that this is whats meant to be, and God is going to give us the strength to go forward and to strengthen ourselves," he added. Rachels body was flown to New York, where a funeral will be held Thursday before her body is flown to Israel and buried in Jerusalem. The owner of the watercraft company involved said the sisters, their parents and a supervising employee were on a watercraft when the incident happened. The owner told NBC Miami that while Florida law requires a person to be at least 14 years old to operate a watercraft, he needs a driver to be at least 16 years old, like Aviva. Fort Lauderdale police and the FWC are investigating. Has it really been half a century since a young, floppy-haired Leonardo DiCaprio first graced our screens? The answer is a resounding yes, as the Oscar-winning actor recently celebrated a landmark birthday, but according to him, the number on the cake doesnt quite match his internal monologue. The celebrated actor and environmentalist turned the big 5-0 this past November, marking a milestone that for most people is a signal to slow down and reflect. Not so for DiCaprio, who revealed in a recent interview with Esquire that he feels emotionally like hes still in his early thirties. Leonardo DiCaprio attends the CinemaCon 2018 Gala Opening Night Event: Sony Pictures Highlights its 2018 Summer and Beyond Films at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace during CinemaCon, the official convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners, on April 23, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Getty Images) If you didnt know how old you are, how old are you right now? director Paul Thomas Anderson reportedly asked him. Without missing a beat, DiCaprio replied, 32. The sentiment seems to be a testament to a life lived at a breakneck pace, from blockbuster stardom to globe-trotting activism. Indeed, it seems the superstar is not one to get caught up in the specifics of age. In fact, he elaborated on the subject, stating that he feels emotionally 35 when he turned 50. Its a feeling that has, in a way, liberated him. Well, it creates a feeling like you have a desire to just be more honest and not waste your time, he said. He credits his mother for this no-nonsense approach to life, saying she just says exactly what she thinks and wastes no time. Leonardo DiCaprio attends the Sony Pictures Once Upon A TimeIn Hollywood Los Angeles Premiere on July 22, 2019 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) Perhaps this youthful spirit is why hes showing no signs of slowing down. The birthday celebration was, as one might expect, a star-studded affair with a guest list that read like a whos who of Hollywood legends. Friends from different eras of his career, from his early days to his recent triumphs, all gathered to toast the man who has managed to stay at the top of his game for decades. Join the SL Community Have an opinion on what you just read? Sign up to be a part of the Socialite Life community to post a comment, bookmark your favorite articles, topics, and contributors. Sign Up Today The luxury chain 1 Hotels opened a location in Seattle in May. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I spent one night at the Seattle location of the luxury hotel chain 1 Hotels. The Seattle location started taking reservations in May, and I stayed there during opening weekend. My $450-a-night room surprised me with unique amenities and creative sustainability practices. I was among the first to sleep in one particular room at 1 Hotel Seattle. As someone who has stayed in many upscale hotels around the world, I wasn't expecting to be blown away. I'm glad I was mistaken. The luxury hotel chain, which offers a starting rate of $400 a night, opened its Pacific Northwest location on May 6 just four days before my one-night stay. My $450-a-night room blended nature and modern luxury in a way that calmed me after a day of exploring Seattle. But what really struck me were the details. From the outside, 1 Hotel Seattle looked like a typical hotel. Joey Hadden/Business Insider According to the company's website, 1 Hotels is a decade-old luxury hotel brand centered on sustainability. "This isn't just another hotel it's a place for travelers who care about where they stay, how they stay, and the impact they leave behind," the general manager, Rob Brandenberg, told Business Insider. As I approached the hotel, I thought the exterior was unassuming. It was in a shopping center next to a Whole Foods. Save for the entrance, the building looked plain to me. But once I stepped into the lobby, it was clear I'd booked a unique stay. Joey Hadden/Business Insider Tree trunk tables, monsteras, and ferns decorated the lobby, which was complete with a soothing, nature-inspired soundtrack. Macrame chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and timber coated the walls. "The hotel draws from the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest, with reclaimed wood, natural stone, moss-inspired art, and live-edge furnishings woven throughout the design," Brandenberg said. In addition to 153 rooms, the hotel had an on-site restaurant named La Loba, a lobby bar called Drift, a gift shop, a gym, an outdoor terrace, and meeting spaces. My 327-square-foot City King room felt like a peaceful sanctuary. Joey Hadden/Business Insider My room looked modern and natural with a light, warm, and muted color palette. I noticed a headboard made of reclaimed wood, a tree-trunk nightstand, and a coat rack resembling a bare tree. The king-sized bed across from a 55-inch TV had organic linen sheets. The wardrobe, sitting area, and light fixtures had a midcentury modern look. The bathroom was just as calming. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I watched TV through the window to the bedroom while soaking in the wood-based bathtub. I felt the stone pebble flooring beneath my feet in the rainfall shower. And I did my skincare routine on quartzite counters in front of a large blob mirror. I found amenities I'd never seen in a hotel room, like a robe that felt like a sweatshirt. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I'm used to wrapping myself in the terry cloth robes provided at luxury hotels, so I was surprised to find a jersey knit robe with a hood hanging in my bathroom at 1 Hotel Seattle. While it didn't soak up moisture like a typical hotel robe, I found it far more comfortable. The jersey robe was as soft as a sweatshirt. The lining felt smooth against my skin. The room surprised me with a filtered tap. Joey Hadden/Business Insider In my experience, most hotel rooms are stocked with plastic water bottles, but 1 Hotel Seattle had a more sustainable approach to hydration. On the bedside table, I found a carafe and two cups made of recycled wine bottles. The cups rested on a coaster with a message informing guests of the filtered tap in the bathroom. It felt luxurious to sip as much water as I needed from a thick, smooth glass instead of rationing a limited supply of complimentary water bottles. I also felt good about avoiding single-use plastics that are bad for the environment. I'd never seen bathroom amenities with alternative suggestions for use. Joey Hadden/Business Insider In the bathroom, I found standard hotel amenities like cotton swabs and shower caps, but I was surprised by their packaging. Beneath each label was a list of other ways to use the item ways I'd never thought about. Shower caps can be camera covers, shoe bags, or snack bowls. Cotton rounds can be coasters, and swabs can be keyboard cleaners. I was impressed by this clever touch, and I took note for future stays. On my way out, I realized the hotel had a unique and sustainable solution for overpackers. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I almost missed the "1 Less Thing" plaque. On my way out, I noticed it on a shelf by the front door. The plaque said guests can leave unwanted clothing beneath it, and the hotel will donate the pile to a local shelter. Although I packed light and didn't use the plaque, it warmed my heart to think of all the overpackers who stay at 1 Hotel Seattle and will have the opportunity to give back with this convenient program. These surprises made me think that 1 Hotels takes sustainable travel to a new level with creative approaches. I hope other hotels are inspired to do the same. Read the original article on Business Insider The teacher accused of fatally stabbing an Arkansas couple while they were hiking with two of their daughters pleaded not guilty to two capital murder charges on Thursday. Andrew James McGann, a 28-year-old elementary school teacher, was arrested last month, accused of stabbing Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, to death and charged with two counts of capital murder. McGann hardly spoke and showed little emotion during the arraignment, which lasted around 30 minutes, according to NBC affiliate KNWA-TV. Authorities said that McGann made statements to investigators "indicating that he had committed these heinous acts" and that his DNA was found at the crime scene. In a brief statement, the Washington County Prosecuting Attorneys Office said that "the state continues to pursue the death penalty" in McGanns case. McGann's lawyers from the county public defender's office declined to comment. Andrew James McGann appears in front of District Judge Terra Stephenson for his bond hearing in Fayetteville, Ark., on Aug. 1. (Michael Woods / AP) The Brinks were hiking in Devils Den State Park, which lies in the northwest corner of Arkansas, with their young children, who are 7 and 9 years old, authorities say. Investigators believe that Clinton was attacked first, while Cristen brought the kids to safety. Authorities said she then "returned to help her husband" before being attacked herself. The kids were not injured in the attack, and officials said last month that they do not believe they were targets. A motive for the attack remains unknown. Arkansas State Police Director Mike Hagar said last month that officials "have no reason to believe that there was any known association between our suspect and our victims." A witness reported seeing an individual with blood on his face leaving the park's trail and getting into a black sedan, according to a probable cause report filed by prosecutors. A second witness identified the black sedan as a Kia Stinger, according to the report. McGann evaded authorities for several days after the Brinks were found dead. Authorities then matched his car to the car described by the witnesses, according to the probable cause report. On July 30, he was arrested in a Springdale, Arkansas, barbershop while getting his hair cut, roughly 30 miles from Devil's Den. When authorities entered McGann's vehicle, "a substance appearing to be blood" was visible inside. McGann identified the car as his own, according to the probable cause report. Officials said McGann recently moved to Arkansas for a new job at an elementary school after teaching in various schools throughout Oklahoma. He was recently hired to teach within Springdale Public Schools in Arkansas, but had not started the new role, according to a district administrator. McGann passed background checks for his employment by Oklahoma's Education Department and for the two districts in the state where he taught. Some parents of McGann's former students said they raised concerns that he was not properly teaching their children. Others said they worried he was "grooming" female students. Cristen Amanda Brink and Clinton David Brink. (via Facebook) "In early May, late April, other parents start telling me that he was having special lunches during the lunch break, where all the kids would go to the cafeteria, but then he would ask some of the special girls to stay in his classroom and have lunch with him, which was weird," parent Lindsay Camp Polyak previously told NBC News. "Other moms alleged that he had encouraged some girls to sit in his lap." Polyak added that her son told her that McGann would give candy and other prizes to female students, and that he "loves to play tag. He plays tag at recess every day with the girls." The Lewisville Independent School District in Texas, one of the districts where McGann taught and where Polyak's son is a student, said in a message to the school community that an internal investigation "did not find any evidence of inappropriate behavior with a student." Residents are advised to drink plenty of water as Arizona deals with triple-digit temperatures. Dave Mason/The Center Square (The Center Square) Slightly cooler weather is on the way for parts of Arizona, but folks should still be mindful of conditions. An extreme heat warning for the Phoenix area is set to expire at 8 p.m. Wednesday. Temperatures will generally remain above 100 degrees across much of the lowest elevations of the southwestern Arizona, National Weather Service meteorologist Mark OMalley told The Center Square. Recent temperatures have been five to seven degrees above normal. In Phoenix, for example, Tuesdays high was 112. It was the same in Yuma. The high temperature in El Centro was 114, Heat-related conditions are blamed for at least 35 recent deaths in Maricopa County alone. Another 334 are under investigation. We always encourage people to maintain vigilance and prepare for the hot weather if you need to be doing any work outdoors during the afternoon hours, said OMalley, who works in the weather service's Phoenix office. NWS advises people who have to work or spend time outdoors to make sure to get into some air conditioning during the afternoon and give their bodies a break. We also encourage people to check on your neighbors, those who may not want or have air conditioning because they cant afford it or for any other reason, said OMalley. The Arizona Department of Health Services offers information regarding cooling centers online at experience.arcgis.com. Visitors will see a map of the state and snowflake-like markers to pinpoint locations of various cooling centers. Meanwhile, physicians such as Tucson-based Dr. Jane Orient told The Center Square that hydration is important to prevent not only dehydration but also heat stroke. If a person can drink enough water and sweat normally, there is no specific time limit for being in a hot environment, though it is easy to get dehydrated and need intravenous fluids, said Orient. If a person cannot sweat enough because of a skin condition or medication use, he may need to be quickly removed to a cool environment, and if body temperature is rising, aggressive cooling is needed, as in an ice bath. Heat stroke is an acute emergency and can be fatal. Economist E.J. Antoni and President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House. (The White House) WASHINGTON President Donald Trump's pick to run the Bureau of Labor Statistics was among the crowd outside the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, with the White House saying he was a "bystander" who wandered over after seeing coverage on the news. E.J. Antoni, an economist from the Heritage Foundation nominated by Trump this week, after the president fired the previous BLS head, appears in numerous videos posted on social media of the crowd on the Capitol grounds. The footage shows Antoni approximately an hour after the mob removed police barricades. The footage appears to show him leaving the grounds as people entered the Capitol and not entering the building. Antoni is on the west side of the Capitol in one video, archived from the social media website Parler, and appears in surveillance footage posted online by the Republican-led Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Oversight. Reached by NBC News on Tuesday, Antoni declined to comment. A White House official said Wednesday that Antoni was in Washington on Jan. 6 for in-person meetings with his then-employer at an office blocks away from the Capitol, and that he did not cross any barricades or participate in any demonstrations. The footage does not show Antoni crossing barricades or demonstrating. E.J. Antoni, circled on the bottom right, is seen on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. (Parler via ProPublica) The Parler video, which was also archived by ProPublica, shows Antoni walking away from the crowd on the west side of the Capitol grounds. Tear gas was in the air, and conservative radio host Alex Jones can be heard speaking over a megaphone. At that time, police were struggling to hold off the mob from taking over the inauguration platform. The crowd had surrounded the building but not yet entered the Capitol. Other footage shows Antoni on the east side of the Capitol building, walking south, away from the building. These pictures show EJ Antoni, a bystander to the events of January 6th, observing and then leaving the Capitol area, White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers said in an e-mailed statement. EJ was in town for meetings, and it is wrong and defamatory to suggest EJ engaged in anything inappropriate or illegal. The Justice Department's investigation into the Jan. 6 attack was the largest in its history, with prosecutors scouring video evidence to identify and charge participants. The department mostly focused on charging individuals who entered the Capitol building or engaged in aggravating behavior outside. On his first day in office Trump ended the investigation into the Jan. 6 attack, pardoned all of the roughly 1,500 Capitol defendants and commuted the sentences of others. Trump fired former BLS head Erika McEntarfer earlier this month, suggesting without evidence that she had "rigged" jobs reports for political purposes. The president then said he would nominate Antoni, a frequent guest on Steve Bannon's "War Room," who has long criticized the BLS. Antoni said in an interview with Fox News on Aug. 4, before his nomination, that the agency should suspend issuing the monthly job report, instead publishing quarterly data until the reports are more "accurate." Antoni will need to be confirmed by the Senate to take over the BLS. While Republicans control the chamber, Jan. 6 has caused issues for Trump nominees in the past. Trump withdrew his nomination of Ed Martin to take over the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia after Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., indicated that Martins past support for Jan. 6 participants would be a deal-breaker. The United States deployed two warships Wednesday to a shoal in disputed waters in South China Sea, where two Chinese ships collided earlier in the week while chasing a smaller Philippine ship. The high-seas accident raised concerns about maritime safety and questions about the extent to which the U.S. should involve itself in longstanding tensions between those countries. 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. In this photo, provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, United States Navy USS Higgins (DDG 76) conduct freedom of navigation operations (FONOP) at the South China Sea on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP The U.S. Navy has staged what it calls freedom-of-navigation voyages and overflights in the South China Sea for years to challenge China's 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 Washington's 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. In this photo, provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, United States Navy USS Cincinnati (LCS 20) conduct freedom of navigation operations (FONOP) at the South China Sea on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP The U.S. is also discussing the possible deployment of more missile launcher to the Philippines to strengthen deterrence against tensions in the South China Sea's contested waters, as well as other security hotspots in Asia, Manila's ambassador to Washington told The Associated Press on Thursday. However, neither side has reached a final decision on the matter, said ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez. "This is part of the strong U.S. and Philippines defense partnership," Romualdez told AP. The Philippines is the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. Washington has repeatedly warned that it's 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 footage shared by Philippine coast guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela on social media showed a Chinese coast guard vessel tailing the Filipino patrol boat and blasting its water cannon before a Chinese navy warship cuts in front of it. Coast guard footage additionally show a number of Chinese personnel standing at the bow of the coast guard vessel just before that section was hit by the military ship. The Chinese coast guard vessel was damaged, Tarriela said. The Philippine coast guard spokesperson echoed comments from multiple leaders, who urged China to heed international rules that promote peaceful maritime relations, in the aftermath of the collision. China blamed Philippine vessels for the confrontation, with Chinese coast guard spokesperson Gan Yu telling the official state news agency Xinhua that Philippine vessels intruded into the disputed maritime area and disregarded China's repeated warnings. In this photo, taken from video and provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, a damaged Chinese Coast Guard ship, right, is seen beside a Chinese Navy vessel, left, after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine patrol boat in the South China Sea on Aug. 11, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP 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." "This is a learning experience for the People's 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. Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? FILE - Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO Warren Buffett speaks during an interview with Liz Claman on Fox Business Network's "Countdown to the Closing Bell," May 7, 2018, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) OMAHA, Neb. (AP) Berkshire Hathaway revealed four new investments Thursday in steelmaker Nucor, insurer UnitedHealth and two of the nation's biggest homebuilders Lennar and DR Horton but it's not clear if the investments are big enough to ensure that legendary investor Warren Buffett handled them. Buffett, who plans to retire as CEO at the end of the year after six decades of building Berkshire, handles all of the conglomerate's biggest investments worth $1 billion or more. Three of the new investments disclosed Thursday in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission are worth less than that, so they could be the ideas of one of Berkshire's two other investment managers. But Berkshires new UnitedHealth stake that was also revealed Thursday was worth $1.57 billion, so that one could be big enough to be Buffetts handiwork. Berkshire got permission from the SEC to keep the other three investments confidential earlier this year while it built those stakes, but it apparently bought nearly 5 million UnitedHealth shares just in the second quarter. That stock jumped nearly 8% in aftermarket trading. Berkshire's filings simply offer a snapshot of its $258 billion portfolio at the end of the second quarters. Many investors comb through Berkshire's filings every quarter because they like to follow Buffett's moves. His record of trouncing the S&P 500 for decades has inspired legions of followers. The filing doesn't make clear who at Berkshire handled each investment. Besides Buffett, Ted Weschler and Todd Combs also pick stocks, but they generally handle smaller portfolios and Combs also serves as Geico's CEO. But Buffett has had a hard time finding stocks or any other investments in recent years that he wants to invest much of Berkshire's $344 billion cash in. Berkshire's Nucor stake of 6.6 million shares was the biggest new investment worth roughly $857 million at the end of the quarter. Shares of that company rose more than 6% in extended after-hours trading. The Lennar investment was worth nearly $800 million. While the DR Horton stake was much smaller worth $191.5 million. Those companies' stocks also saw gains in late trading Buffett already knows quite a lot about the home building business because Berkshire owns the nation's largest manufactured homebuilder, Clayton Homes. Besides stocks, Berkshire owns dozens of companies in a variety of industries including Geico insurance, BNSF railroad, several major utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail companies. The Omaha, Nebraska-based company's holdings include many well-known brands like See's Candy and Dairy Queen. An invasive tick species is creeping its way into more parts of the country as warming temperatures help it spread a little-known infection that can leave people with debilitating symptoms and, in rare cases, dead. In May, scientists at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in New Haven discovered for the first time that the longhorned tick had become a carrier for the bacterium that causes the Ehrlichiosis infection. With cases already on the rise, that was a big cause of concern. I am afraid to say that it is a storm brewing, said Goudarz Molaei, the director of the labs tick-testing program. Climate change eventually will almost eliminate winter in our region. And this tick, like other tick species, will be active year-round. Warming temperatures, which have already translated into shorter winters, allow the longhorned tick and other tick species to wake up early from hibernation, increasing the risk of getting bitten. The longhorned tick, which is native to East Asia, first invaded places like Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. It has now been detected in at least 21 states, with Michigan reporting its first sighting at the end of June. Researchers arent sure how the tick made it to the United States, but its likely it arrived on the backs of imported livestock or other animals. Goudarz Molaei, an entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, discovered Ehrlichia chaffeensis in longhorned ticks. The pathogen can cause a potentially deadly tick-borne disease known as Ehrlichiosis. (Nidhi Sharma / NBC News) In 2017, scientists identified the countrys first longhorned tick in New Jersey, though its likely the species has been in the United States since at least 2010. The fact it was here for so long without us actually knowing about it was really a wakeup call, said Dana Price, an associate research professor in the entomology department at Rutgers University. Modeling indicates areas from southern Canada throughout the continental United States are environmentally suitable to the longhorned tick. That means the threat is twofold: The longhorneds geographic range is expanding, and so is the time that its active and able to transmit disease, scientists said. Ehrlichiosis is becoming so prevalent that there is a region of the country unofficially named after it: The Ehrlichiosis Belt stretches from as far north as Connecticut and New York to as far west as Arkansas. The lone star and blacklegged ticks have long carried Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the bacterium that causes Ehrlichiosis. The infection sends about 60% of patients to the hospital and kills about 1 in 100 patients, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Infected people will typically experience fever, chills, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue one to two weeks after having been bitten. But if people arent treated quickly, the infection can sometimes lead to brain and nervous system damage, respiratory failure, uncontrolled bleeding and organ failure. The number of Ehrlichiosis cases has risen steadily since 2000, when the CDC reported 200 cases, compared with 2,093 in 2019. Studies suggest that the number of annual Ehrlichiosis cases is grossly underreported, with one study from Rutgers University researchers saying 99% of cases go undetected. Researchers collect longhorned ticks to test for Ehrlichia chaffeensis. (Nidhi Sharma / NBC News) The CDC reported this month that there were more emergency room visits in July for tick bites than the past eight Julys. In early July, officials closed Pleasure Beach, a popular swim spot in Bridgeport, Connecticut, for the summer after they discovered an infestation of several tick species, including the longhorned tick. Manisha Juthani, the commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, said that as climate change makes tick season less predictable, Connecticut residents should take precautions like wearing long pants and tucking them into their socks and conducting tick checks on family members and pets after having been outdoors for extended periods of time. The reality is that with the changes were seeing in climate, we have to be more prepared and more aware of the infections and the pathogens that we can be exposed to by being outside and potentially being aware of the things that can really cause the most harm to people, Juthani said. While longhorned ticks often prefer the blood of livestock to humans, entomologists say their unique biology makes them a formidable public health hazard. They can establish populations of thousands from a single female because, like bees, they have the ability to reproduce without mates. They can also ingest and become carriers for pathogens typically carried by other tick species if they happen to feed on the same host. The process, known as co-feeding transmission, is common among most tick species. Molaei said his recent discovery of the Ehrlichiosis-causing bacterium in the longhorned tick raises concerns about what other pathogens the tick may be able to contract and transmit to humans. The longhorned tick and the lone star tick, one of the original carriers of Ehrlichia, both feed on similar hosts, like white-tailed deer. Jennifer Platt contracted Ehrlichiosis in 2011 and was treated with antibiotics for several months. (Courtesy Jennifer Platt) We live in this part of the world with several important tick species, and we have to learn how to live with this many ticks, Molaei said. And the key is to protect ourselves. The World Health Organization reports that more than 17% of infectious diseases globally are transmitted through vectors, intermediary animals that ferry viruses, bacteria and other pathogens from one animal to the next. Tick-borne diseases in the United States accounted for 77% of vector-borne disease reports from 2004 to 2016, with cases more than doubling in the last 13 years, according to data collected by the CDC. Jennifer Platt was bitten by a tick during that time. She contracted Ehrlichiosis from a tick bite in North Carolina in the summer of 2011. When she couldnt pick up and carry her 2-year-old son, a friend who is a nurse suggested she go to the hospital immediately. The friend suspected Platt might have a tick-borne infection. Platt was sick and on antibiotics for months after her diagnosis. Her shoulder locked because of the infection a rare but contractable chronic symptom of tick-borne disease leading to months of physical therapy and putting her out of work for three months. It took her more than a year to fully recover from the lasting impacts of the infection. The best way Id describe it, she said, is I felt like death. A few years after she started feeling better, she was diagnosed with Lyme and Babesiosis diseases which she attributes to the same tick bite. Platt, who co-founded the nonprofit advocacy organization Tick-Borne Conditions United, said she hopes the recent discovery of the Ehrlichia bacterium in the longhorned tick will help raise awareness among doctors and the general public about the threat of tick-borne diseases, especially little-known ones like Ehrlichiosis. My mission in life is to support people in being who they are, Platt said. And if youre sick from a tick-borne disease, you cant be who you are. Looking for rich flavor and old-school cooking charm? Beef tallow once the go-to fat for frying and flavoring is quietly making a comeback on Nashville menus. From golden, crispy fries to decadent steak poaching, chefs are rediscovering its silky texture, savory depth, and nostalgic nod to traditional cooking. Whether youre a culinary purist or just curious, heres where to find some of the citys best tallow-driven bites. WHAT IS BEEF TALLOW? Beef tallow is basically the cows answer to butter. Its rendered beef fat meaning the fat is slowly melted down, strained, and turned into a silky, shelf-stable cooking fat. Back in the day, it was the gold standard for frying everything from French fries to chicken because it makes things crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Its rich, savory, and a little nostalgic, the culinary equivalent of your grandmas cast-iron skillet. WHY CHEFS LOVE IT Flavor Boost:Tallow adds a subtle, meaty richness that vegetable oils cant match. Crisp Factor:Perfect for frying think shatter-crisp fries and golden crusts. Tradition:Its a nod to heritage cooking, when nothing went to waste. If you havent tried tallow lately, Nashvilles chefs are offering plenty of delicious reasons to dive in. From steakhouse elegance to approachable comfort food, its proof that sometimes the old ways really are the best. 5 PLACES TO TRY IT Bourbon Steak | Tallow-Poached Steaks Neighborhood: Downtown More Info: nashvillebourbonsteak.com Michael Minas Bourbon Steak, perched atop the JW Marriott, doesnt just grill its prime cuts it poaches them slowly in rendered beef tallow, clarified butter, and herbs before they are finished over a wood-fired grill. The technique locks in moisture, infuses a gentle beefy aroma, and sets the stage for a charred crust thats nothing short of steakhouse perfection. Perfectly seared and rich with flavor, Bourbon Steaks signature cut marries the indulgence of beef tallow and butter with the charred kiss of a wood-fired grill. Image: Facebook Urban Grub | Dry-Aged Beef Fat Fries Neighborhood: 12 South More Info: urbangrub.net Urban Grub takes its signature dry-aged beef program one step further by turning the rendered fat into liquid gold. The result is a plate of Dry-Aged Beef Fat Fries smoky and irresistibly savory. Theyre proof that sometimes the best part of the steak is whats left behind in the pan. Oak Steakhouse | Beef Tallow Frites Neighborhood: Downtown More Info: oaksteakhouserestaurant.com At Oak Steakhouse, fries arent just a side; theyre a statement. The beef tallow frites are fried to perfection and served with a punchy garlic aioli. That subtle beefy richness? All thanks to the tallow, which creates a crisp exterior and soft interior you cant replicate with standard oils. Golden and fried in rich beef tallow, Oak Steakhouses fries prove that sometimes the simplest sides can steal the whole show. Image: Jenna Bratcher Harpers | A-5 Wagyu Drunken Hot Rock & Bread Basket with Beef Tallow Candle Neighborhood: Downtown More Info: harpersnashville.com At Harpers, tallow is more than an ingredient; its a centerpiece. The whimsical beef tallow candle melts tableside, creating a warm, savory dip for fresh bread. Its part culinary art, part conversation starter, and all flavor. As if thats not enough, the restaurant also serves A5 Wagyu Drunken Hot Rock (featuring soy sauce, Maldon salt, yuzu kosho, and beef tallow, which is a sizzling, aromatic showstopper). Maiz De La Vida | Birria Quesadilla with Beef Tallow Neighborhood: North Nashville More Info: maizdelavida.com This food-truck-turned-tortilla-shop doesnt mess around when it comes to flavor. The Birria Quesadilla layers slow-stewed beef and cheese between double tortillas brushed with beef tallow before hitting the griddle. The result? A crispy, flavor-packed crust that takes this street-food classic to the next level. Crispy, juicy, and dripping with flavor, these birria tacos get an extra boost from a beef tallow-griddled crust that takes every bite over the top. Image: Facebook ********** Looking for more restaurants with intriguing menu items? Check out these local restaurants! A New York man has been arrested and charged with cyberstalking the family of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Thompson was fatally shot outside a Midtown Manhattan building in December 2024 in what authorities say was a targeted attack. The suspected gunman, Luigi Mangione, was arrested days later and is awaiting trial. In the days after the shooting, federal prosecutors say Shane Daley, 40, placed multiple calls to a work phone line used by a member of Thompsons family and left voicemails using threatening and harassing language. According to prosecutors, Daley said Thompsons children deserved to meet the same violent end as their father. RELATED STORY | UnitedHealthcare killing suspect Luigi Mangione indicted on death penalty-eligible charges 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, Acting U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III said in a statement. If convicted, Daley faces up to five years in prison and a fine of as much as $250,000, according to the Department of Justice. "The recurrent calls and messages in the days following Brian Thompsons murder were more than callous and cold-hearted harassment they were threatening and terrified a family already suffering following the violent death of their loved one," said Christopher G. Raia, assistant director in charge of the New York office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Telstra has sold a 75 per cent stake in Versent Group to Infosys, valued at $233 million. The move is part of Telstras Connected Future 30 strategy to focus on core connectivity and is consistent with the reset of its enterprise business. Telstra acquired Versent in December 2023, purchasing the business for $267.5 million to help scale Telstra Purple at the time. Versent Group will retain its brand and remain a stand-alone business. Under Telstra, the group integrates Versent, Epicon, Telstra Purple Digital2, and associated cloud access products. For our enterprise portfolio, this means sharpening our focus on the key capabilities that deliver on the strategy and building deep partnerships that maximise the value of our networks, Telstra CEO Vicki Brady said. Versent Group has earned its reputation by helping Australian enterprises make the shift from traditional technology to modern cloud environments, delivering digital transformation at scale. Datacom has set its sight on expanding its business across Australia with the appointment of former Western Australia Department of Justice CIO Jim Pollard and ex-Avanade chief sales officer Paul Wilson. As the newly appointed associate director public sector growth, Pollard will focus specifically on growing the service providers government sector operations across Western Australia. With more than 20 years as an ICT executive, Pollard is a seasoned public sector leader who will help local government customers shape modern digital platforms to greatly improve operations and better serve customers in WA. In his previous CIO role, Pollard led significant reforms across one of the states most complex portfolios. This included a comprehensive program of digital transformation and strengthening the departments cyber security capabilities Prior to this, he held various consulting roles within the government, education and resources sectors and served as general manager of advisory and professional services at Perth-based ICT integrator L7 Solutions. Before moving to Australia with his family, Pollard lived in the UK where he built a durable foundation in technology consulting and delivery. by Vladimir Rozanskij The exhibition opened in early August with the blessing of Patriarch Kirill of Moscow. It was organised by the Sovereign Order of Malta and the charity foundation Kirche im Not. Minister Balaeva: A testimony to the spiritual growth of humanity as a whole. A unique relic that has attracted interest since ancient times. Moscow (AsiaNews) - At the beginning of August, an international spiritual and educational exhibition on the Holy Shroud of Turin opened in Astana with the blessing of Patriarch Kirill (Gundjaev) of Moscow, in preparation for the 8th Congress of World Leaders of Traditional Religions, which has been held for years in the capital of Kazakhstan. The exhibition was organised by the Russian Orthodox Church in Central Asia, together with the Sovereign Order of Malta and the charitable foundation Kirche im Not. The reproductions of the Shroud and other items were displayed in the Dvorets Mira, the Palace of Peace/World in the city centre, under the supervision of the Metropolitan of Astana and all of Kazakhstan, Aleksandr (Mogilev), assisted by other clergymen together with professors and students from the Orthodox theological seminary in Almaty. The inauguration was also attended by the Kazakh Minister of Culture, Aida Balaeva, and many civil authorities, including the president of the International Centre for Interfaith Dialogue and Interreligious Dialogue, Marat Kalizanov, together with the Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, Archbishop George Panamthundil, other diplomats from various countries, the president of Kirche im Not Regina Lynch, archaeologist and Princess Sofia of Lowenstein-Wertheim-Rosenberg, a great expert on the history of research on the Shroud, and many other high representatives of the Catholic Church and the cultural world of Kazakhstan. Minister Balaeva noted that the reproductions offered to the residents and guests of Astana are a testimony to the history of the spiritual growth of all humanity, in the spirit of the interreligious congress that attests to Kazakhstan's dedication to the ideals of peace, harmony and humanism.' The minister recalled the words of President Kasym-Zomart Tokaev, who in a message pointed to the educational function of religion in all times, and the Holy Scriptures are full of ideals of great humanity, compassion and mercy, also recalling the section of the exhibition on Sacred Books with 50 examples of manuscripts from various eras referring to different religions. Balaeva emphasised how the exhibition is a great event in our current era, marked by so many tragedies, to regenerate the moral guidelines and values that enrich the human soul. Metropolitan Aleksandr welcomed the joint participation of representatives of various faiths and countries in the exhibition on what is called the Fifth Gospel, a unique relic that has attracted the interest of both the scientific community and countless pilgrims since ancient times, encouraging people to read the Scriptures and study biblical history. Nuncio Panamthundil noted how appropriate it is that this exhibition is taking place in Kazakhstan, a country known for its ability to develop interreligious dialogue, mutual respect and peace-building. The Catholic bishop of Astana, Tomasz Peta, confirmed that religious freedom truly exists here, with fruitful collaboration between representatives of different religious views of the world, which contribute to deepening the spiritual awareness of our people. The exhibition will remain open until 25 September, when the interfaith congress ends, offering a full-size replica of the Holy Shroud, 27 information panels, artefacts and historical objects, video material and illustrative brochures dedicated to the phenomenon of the sheet bearing the face of Jesus and the many analyses and studies on it, which still today provoke discussion, criticism and in-depth analysis, even in the non-specialised press. The exhibition experts have also made copies of the crown of thorns and the nails of the Holy Cross, corresponding to the customs of the first century of Christianity. Today's headlines: Jimmy Lai's final hearings postponed; Pakistan announces new military unit for missile deploymen;. South Sudan denies negotiations with Israel for the relocation of Palestinians; On August 29,Thailand's Constitutional Court to rule whether to remove Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. NORTH KOREA Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, today rejected claims that North Korea is removing some of its loudspeakers along the border. The information was initially reported by Seoul, which removed its own loudspeakers in an attempt to ease tensions with the North. HONG KONG The final hearings in Jimmy Lai's trial have been postponed due to heavy rain. The tycoon who owns the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily has been charged with seditious statements against the government and faces life imprisonment. His son, Sebastien Lai, has expressed concern that his father, who is 77 and has been in prison since December 2020, could die in prison. CHINA JAPAN Beijing and Tokyo have different plans for commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II: Japan will hold a ceremony tomorrow, 15 August, the day Emperor Hirohito announced on the radio that the government had surrendered, while China will hold a military parade on 3 September, the day of the Japanese army's formal surrender, an issue that still haunts relations between the two Asian countries. THAILAND Thailand's Constitutional Court will decide on 29 August whether to reinstate or remove Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who was suspended from office after the release of a phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen. In recent days, Bangkok had again accused Phnom Penh of violating the ceasefire after another Thai soldier was wounded at the border by a landmine. Cambodia rejected the accusations, saying it had never planted new mines. PAKISTAN INDIA Pakistani Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif has announced the creation of a new military unit called the Army Rocket Force, which, with its own military command, will be responsible for overseeing missile combat capabilities in a conventional conflict. This decision appears to be a direct consequence of the clashes with India in early May. RUSSIA CENTRAL ASIA Russia is conducting a propaganda campaign to recruit young men and women from across Central Asia for training and work in the Alabuga economic zone in Tatarstan, where drones are being assembled for use in the war against Ukraine. In particular, it is recruiting young people from Kyrgyzstan, with which a protocol has been signed to visit schools. MOLDOVA The leader of the opposition bloc in Moldova, Pobeda, the oligarch Ilan Sor, who is in exile in Russia, has urged his supporters to start a campaign of civil disobedience in protest against the actions of President Maia Sandu's government, beginning by not paying taxes and gathering for a demonstration in the centre of Chisinau on 16 August to overthrow this vomitous mess as soon as possible. GAZA ISRAEL As the death toll in Gaza City rose to 123 in the last 24 hours due to Israeli bombing, South Sudan reported that there will be no negotiations with the Jewish state for the relocation of Palestinians to its territory, as initially reported by some news agencies. However, South Sudan's Foreign Minister Semaya Kumba visited Israel last month and met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Announcing the new military offensive against the Strip, Netanyahu, backed by US President Donald Trump, reiterated that the Palestinians should simply leave Gaza. Champion local news. Join our community of readers who value daily beat reporting and in-depth stories alike. Your membership allows us to continue the legacy of local, independent journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, we can remain a free and accessible source of news for everyone, always without paywalls or corporate influence. Together, we can ensure that vital local stories are told. 14 August 2025 15:59 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more An international seminar-training titled "Silk Road Culinary Heritage: Introduction to Zooarchaeology and Archaeobotany" has been held in Kyrgyzstan, Azernews reports. The event was jointly organized by the Institute of History and Cultural Heritage of the National Academy of Sciences of Kyrgyzstan and the Institute of Cultural Heritage Studies under Teikyo University of Japan. The institute was represented at the seminar by staff members Ulviyya Safarova, Narmin Mammadli, and Ulkar Allahverdiyeva. The training program included both theoretical and practical sessions in the fields of archaeobotany and zooarchaeology. In the archaeobotany section, participants practiced techniques such as sample flotation, seed sorting, and identification under a microscope. In the zooarchaeology section, they gained practical skills in bone identification, morphological analysis, measurements, determination of age and sex, recognition of pathologies, and cut mark analysis. As part of the program, participants visited the excavation site of the medieval city of Ak-Beshim, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, to observe the ongoing research firsthand. Visits were also organized to the Burana historical complex and museum, as well as the National Museum of Kyrgyzstan. At the end of the training, all participants were awarded certificates. 14 August 2025 10:50 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Azerbaijani servicemen proudly represented the nation at a military parade in Islamabad, Pakistan, held in honor of Independence Day and the Victory of Truth, Azernews reports. According to Azernews, the passage of Azerbaijans commandos and military orchestra drew standing ovations and loud applause from the crowd. The warm welcome included a commentator greeting the contingent in Azerbaijani with the words, Welcome to Pakistan! and leading the slogan, Long live Pakistan-Azerbaijan unity and brotherhood! Another commentator highlighted Azerbaijans historic triumph in the 44-day Patriotic War, underscoring the countrys military strength and resilience. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, further emphasizing the significance of Azerbaijans participation as a symbol of the close friendship and cooperation between the two countries. 14 August 2025 11:39 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Finland, in its capacity as the current Chairman of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), will lead discussions among participating States in response to a joint appeal from Azerbaijan and Armenia to close the Minsk process and related structures, Azernews reports. The OSCE headquarters confirmed the development, noting that the organizations Secretariat stands ready to implement all decisions resulting from these talks. According to the OSCE, the joint appeal from Baku and Yerevan was officially received on August 11, with a proposal for the OSCE Ministerial Council to formally resolve the issue of dissolving the Minsk Group and its associated institutions. "We welcome the agreements of August 8 signed in Washington, congratulate Armenia and Azerbaijan on this achievement, and highly appreciate the role of the US administration in facilitating this process," the organization stated, reaffirming its commitment to supporting lasting peace and stability in the South Caucasus. The OSCE Minsk Group was established in 1992 to mediate a peaceful settlement of the Karabakh conflict. Following Azerbaijans victory in the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020, Baku repeatedly declared the conflict resolved and insisted there was no longer a need for the Minsk Group or its mechanisms. Azerbaijan subsequently proposed that Armenia join it in formally appealing to the OSCE to dissolve the body. On August 8 in Washington, in the presence of the leaders of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and the United States, the foreign ministers of both countries signed the joint appeal to abolish the group. The dissolution of the Minsk Group is one of two key conditions set by Azerbaijan for signing a peace treaty with Armenia. The Minsk Group, co-chaired by the United States, Russia, and France, also includes Belarus, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Finland, Sweden, as well as Armenia and Azerbaijan. 14 August 2025 12:12 (UTC+04:00) On August 14, Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, made a phone call to Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports. President of the European Council Antonio Costa congratulated President Ilham Aliyev on the signing of the Declaration between Azerbaijan and Armenia witnessed by the U.S. President in Washington, the initialing of the Agreement on Establishment of Peace and Inter-State Relations, and the breakthroughs regarding the regional transport corridor. The President of the European Council emphasized the importance of these outcomes in ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region. He expressed the European Unions readiness to support the process of implementing the agreements reached. President Ilham Aliyev expressed gratitude for the congratulations, recalling that it was Azerbaijan that initiated the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and authored the text of the peace agreement. Highlighting the importance of the achievements reached in Washington, the Azerbaijani President noted the special role of U.S. President Donald Trump in this matter. President Ilham Aliyev underlined the importance of the agreement on unhindered transport connectivity between Azerbaijans mainland and its Nakhchivan region. During the telephone conversation, the sides recalled with satisfaction the meeting of the President of Azerbaijan with President of the European Council Antonio Costa, and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and the discussions held on the margins of the "European Political Union" Summit in Tirana in May this year. President Ilham Aliyev and Antonio Costa exchanged views on the prospects of Azerbaijan-EU relations, as well as other issues of mutual concern. 14 August 2025 14:02 (UTC+04:00) Four agreements signed between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have been approved, Azernews reports. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed the relevant decree. According to the decree, the agreements include: - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on cooperation in the field of environmental protection"; - "Agreement between the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan on mutual recognition of authorized economic operator institutions"; - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on cooperation in the fields of science, vocational education and higher education"; - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the organization of information exchange on copied, stolen, lost and criminally related mobile devices"; The relevant agencies (Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, State Customs Committee, Ministry of Science and Education, and Ministry of Digital Development and Transport) must ensure the implementation of the provisions of the agreements, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must notify the other party about the completion of the internal procedures necessary for the entry into force of the agreements. 14 August 2025 14:11 (UTC+04:00) On August 14, an official event was held in Baku to mark Pakistans Independence Day. The celebration began with the raising of the Pakistani flag accompanied by the national anthem, followed by recitations from the Holy Quran, Azernews reports. Messages of congratulations from Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif were read during the ceremony, underlining the importance of this historic day for the people of Pakistan. Addressing attendees, Pakistans Ambassador to Azerbaijan Qasim Mohiuddin highlighted the historical significance of the occasion. He praised the strong ties of friendship between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, drawing attention to the trilateral meeting of the leaders of Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan held in Lachin on May 28. The ambassador also emphasized the significance of Azerbaijans Karabakh Victory, describing it as a landmark event in military history and an important milestone for regional stability. 14 August 2025 15:49 (UTC+04:00) The Turkish broadcaster TRT World has published an article by Luke Coffey, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, analyzing the prospects for peace in the South Caucasus. Azernews presents the article to its readers. History was made at the White House when US President Donald Trump brought the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to Washington for a major peace summit an event that appears to have finally closed one of the longest-running conflicts to emerge from the collapse of the Soviet Union. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev each signed new strategic agreements with the US before endorsing a joint declaration committing their countries to a peaceful resolution of their decades-old dispute. Two key components of this path towards peace are the mutual recognition of each others internationally recognised borderswithout any territorial claimsand the creation of a transit route linking Azerbaijan proper to its exclave of Nakhchivan through a narrow strip of southern Armenia. This corridor, to be known as the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), will be managed by a US-backed business consortium for 99 years. The idea of a transport corridor in this region is not new. In fact, such a route has existed in various forms for decades, until Armenia blocked it in the 1990s. Following the Second Garabagh War, the concept was revived as the Zangezur Corridor, though not much progress has been made. But no one is complaining, as the corridor serves the interests of all sides, no matter how it is named. What Turkiye gains? For Turkiye, there are two main geopolitical implications that arise from normalisation between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The first is the possibility of greater resilience in transport routes connecting Turkiye to the heart of the Eurasian landmass. At present, Turkiyes primary route runs through Georgia to Azerbaijan and then across the Caspian Sea to Central Asia. This route is tried and tested, and it has helped solidify Turkiyes role as a regional transport hub. Transit links such as the BakuTbilisiKars railroad and energy pipelines like the BakuTbilisiCeyhan and the Southern Gas Corridor have been central to Turkiyes connectivity with global markets. The TRIPP is not designed to compete with these established routes, but rather to complement them. Adding a second route through Nakhchivan, Armenia, and then Azerbaijan proper would provide an alternative for commercial use and add redundancy, ensuring that Turkiyes eastward trade remains secure even if regional instability or geopolitical events disrupt the Georgian corridor. Moreover, this corridor also provides Turkiye with the most direct transit and communications link to the rest of the Turkic world in Eurasia. This delivers a broader geopolitical achievementcloser integration within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Since its inception as the Turkic Council in 2009, the OTS has sought to deepen shared cultural, historical, and linguistic ties, while enhancing economic and trade relations between the ethnically Turkic countries of Eurasia. Secondly, the normalisation between Yerevan and Baku creates more political space for normalisation between Turkiye and Armenia. Turkiye and Armenia have had a difficult relationship over the past few decades. Although Turkiye was one of the first countries to recognise Armenias independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, relations quickly soured following Armenias invasion of Azerbaijan in the early 1990s. In 1993, Turkiye co-sponsored a UN Security Council resolution calling on Armenian forces to withdraw from the Azerbaijani region of Kelbajar, which they had occupied during the fighting. Later that year, diplomatic relations between the two countries ended, and Turkiye closed its border with Armenia. Since then, Turkish-Armenian diplomatic engagement has been two steps forward and one step back. Before liberating all of its territory in September 2023, Azerbaijan first regained much of the territory taken from it by Armenia in the 1990s during the Second Garabagh War in 2020. When Kelbajar returned to Azerbaijani control in November 2020, many wondered whether this could pave the way for renewed diplomatic engagement between Turkiye and Armenia. However, beyond the specific issue of Kelbajar, Ankara has consistently maintained that genuine negotiations with Yerevan could only take place once Armenia and Azerbaijan normalised relations and signed a peace agreement. Now that a peace treaty appears to be on track for ratification, new possibilities may be emerging for Turkiye -Armenia relations. The big picture It should be noted that the benefits of ArmeniaAzerbaijan normalisation are not limited to Ankara and Baku. They also extend to Yerevan. Armenia is a poor country, and over the past three and a half decades of the frozen conflict over Garabagh, it has been excluded from many of the regions major energy and transport infrastructure projects. It is difficult to quantify exactly how much foreign investment Armenia has lost as a result, but it is safe to say that billions of dollars in potential projects have bypassed the country because of its unresolved conflict with Azerbaijan. Now that peace appears within reach and Armenia is on the verge of having normal relations with all its neighbours, it will be well-positioned to participate in new energy and trade infrastructure initiatives. Over time, this could bring substantial benefits to Armenias economy. For Turkiye, the ArmeniaAzerbaijan peace agreement represents more than just new infrastructure it marks a strategic opportunity to cooperate with the South Caucasus in a way that promotes stability, economic growth, and regional connectivity. By complementing existing transit corridors, opening the door to normalisation with Armenia, and linking the Turkic world more closely than ever before, Turkiye can help usher in a new era in the South Caucasus one where cooperation replaces conflict and shared prosperity becomes the foundation for lasting peace. The views and opinions expressed differ from and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff. 14 August 2025 16:45 (UTC+04:00) Spain-based news outlet EDATV aired a special live program focusing on the historic signing of the Joint Declaration between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in Washington, D.C. The discussion featured Mahir Qurbanov, head of the CaucasusIbero-America Think Tank and a well-known expert on Spanish-speaking countries. According to Azernews, during the broadcast, M. Qurbanov emphasised that President Aliyevs meetings at the White House on August 8 marked a turning point in Azerbaijans diplomatic history. The visit not only gave a strong impetus to advancing the ArmeniaAzerbaijan peace agenda toward concrete outcomes but also elevated AzerbaijanU.S. relations to the level of strategic partnership. The international community highly values the historic Joint Declaration signed between President Aliyev and Prime Minister Pashinyan, mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump, Qurbanov noted. He further explained that the Joint Declaration signed in Washington represents a political course determined by Azerbaijans leadership, shaping not only the countrys future but also that of the South Caucasus region. According to Qurbanov, the process underscores the Azerbaijani Presidents unwavering commitment to national interests, principled stance, and resolute determination. 14 August 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more South Korean prosecutors have arrested Kim Keon Hee, the wife of jailed former President Yoon Suk Yeol, on charges of bribery, stock manipulation, and interference in the political candidate selection process, Azernews reports, citing local media. Kim was taken into custody following a court-issued arrest warrant and is currently being held at a detention center in southern Seoul, separate from the facility where her husband, the former president, is incarcerated. Her arrest stems from one of three independent investigations launched by a special prosecutor under South Koreas newly elected liberal government, all focused on alleged misconduct during Yoons presidency. Yoon, a conservative, was removed from office in April and subsequently rearrested and jailed on related charges. In approving the arrest warrant, the Seoul Central District Court cited concerns that Kim posed a risk of evidence tampering, justifying her detention ahead of formal indictment proceedings. Kim appeared at the Seoul court earlier on Tuesday for an extended hearing but did not comment publicly. Prosecutors are expected to continue questioning her later this week. Under South Korean law, investigators may hold her for up to 20 days before deciding whether to press formal charges. 14 August 2025 11:57 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Meetings will soon be held in Armenia to begin the process of drafting a new Constitution, Azernews reports, citing Armenian media. The countrys Constitutional Reform Council is expected to convene in the near future to discuss the framework for the new Constitution. Earlier this year, in February, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the nation, emphasizing the need to hold a nationwide referendum to adopt a new Constitution. Initially, representatives of the Armenian government had announced plans to prepare the new constitutional draft before the next parliamentary elections scheduled for 2026. It should be noted that on August 8, in Washington, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of the United States of America Donald Trump, and Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan signed a Joint Declaration regarding the meeting between the President of Azerbaijan and the Prime Minister of Armenia. On the same day, as part of the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan, initialed the draft "Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia." Additionally, Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a joint appeal to the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, calling for the formal closure of the OSCE Minsk Process, the mandate of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office related to the conflict discussed at the Minsk Conference, and the activities of the High-Level Planning Group. 14 August 2025 14:09 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has underscored the wider regional and international significance of the declaration signed by Azerbaijan, Armenia, and the United States in Washington on August 8, Azernews reports. Speaking to Fox News, Pashinyan emphasized that the agreement could bring tangible benefits not only to the signatories but also to neighbouring countries, including Iran and Russia. He noted that the implementation of the declaration could open a rail route connecting Iran from the Persian Gulf to the Black Sea, while also establishing a direct railway link between Russia and Iran. Implementation of the agreement will bring economic advantages not only for Armenia, Azerbaijan and the US, but also for Turkiye, Russia and Iran, Pashinyan said. The Armenian leader highlighted the unprecedented nature of such a railway link in the South Caucasus, where currently no direct rail connection exists between Iran and Russia. Pashinyan also stressed the potential of the declaration to enhance international stability and security. I believe this is a very important agreement that can deliver significant benefits to all countries, and indeed to the international community as a whole, he said. Pashinyan expressed hope that the declaration would serve as a platform for regional cooperation and peace. 14 August 2025 20:21 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The U.S. Department of the Treasury has temporarily lifted certain sanctions on Russia to permit financial transactions necessary for the preparation and hosting of a summit in Alaska, Azernews reports. According to the information, operations that are typically prohibited under existing sanctions regimes (RuHSR and URSR) will be allowed until 12:01 a.m. on August 20, 2025, provided they are essential for participation in or support of the summit taking place in the state of Alaska. It is noted that this temporary measure does not involve the unfreezing of any Russian assets that are currently blocked under the anti-Russia sanctions. 14 August 2025 20:45 (UTC+04:00) By News Centre With food security and self-sufficiency in agriculture emerging as one of the most pressing national security issues worldwide following the RussiaUkraine war, Senegal, like many African nations, has identified agriculture as a strategic sector and prioritized investment in the field. Albayrak Group, which has distinguished itself not only with construction and port investments but also with agricultural initiatives, reached an agreement with the delegation led by Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko to launch a major agricultural project in Senegal. The project, designed to promote mechanization and modern farming practices, was formalized through the signing of a memorandum of understanding. Under the agreement, Albayrak Group will establish a tractor assembly plant in Senegal under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Livestock and the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The facility is expected to serve the entire West African region. In addition to assembly, service, spare parts, and after-sales support, the project envisions the establishment of a vocational school specializing in agricultural training. The signing ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Sonko, accompanied by senior ministers, while Albayrak Group was represented by Chairman Ahmet Albayrak, Vice Chairman Nuri Albayrak, and Head of International Investments, Ports and Construction Yunus Ylmaz. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who visited Turkiye with an extensive delegation between August 711, took part in the SenegalTurkiye Business Forum in Istanbul following official meetings in Ankara. After the forum, Sonko held one-on-one meetings with the executives of around twenty Turkish companies selected by Senegals Public Works and Investment Promotion Agency (APIX), alongside ministers of foreign affairs, defense, economy and finance, energy, industry and trade, and agriculture. This visit followed President Bassirou Diomaye Fayes official trip to Turkiye in late 2024 and reflects Senegals strategy of diversifying its alliances as part of the Senegal 2050 vision. Coming immediately after his trip to China, Sonkos Turkiye visit focused on strategic cooperation in defense, energy, finance, and agriculture, as well as large-scale infrastructure projects in construction to be developed through publicprivate partnerships and build-operate-transfer models. Albayrak Group, known for port operations in countries such as Somalia, Guinea, Gambia, Congo, and Equatorial Guinea, has also made investments in construction, agriculture, public transport, and waste management across the continent. In the agricultural sector, its subsidiaries TUMOSAN and Sukkar are listed among Turkiyes largest industrial companies. According to ISOs annual ranking of Turkiyes Top 500 Industrial Enterprises, TUMOSAN ranks 388th, while Sukkar is included in the Second 500 list. Both companies highlight the Groups strong position in agricultural machinery and production. Beyond Turkiye, Albayrak has carried out agricultural projects across Guinea and is preparing to expand agricultural production activities in Gambia, Sierra Leone, Congo, and Somalia. In cooperation with the African Development Bank, the Group has developed a special production and service model aimed at providing field-based solutions to Africas challenges in food security and self-sufficiency. Zesty, which has been sold to Granite, is based at City Quays, Belfast Digital transformation firm Granite Digital has acquired Belfast-based Zesty from News UK & Ireland, it announced on Thursday. Web design agency Zesty, which was formerly owned by UTV, employs 17 people who are based at City Quays in Belfast. Grantie said that with the addition of Zesty, its revenues are forecast to exceed 20m in 2025. It confirmed that the Belfast office will remain open, with the business now employing more than 170 digital specialists and serving over 1,200 clients. Zesty, which was founded in 1996, has been a major name in web design and development, with clients including Belfast City Council, EY, Power NI, Bank of Ireland and Northern Ireland Electricity Networks. Conor Buckley, chief executive of Granite Conor Buckley, CEO of Granite Digital, said: "The acquisition of Zesty marks another transformative milestone in our growth journey. "With roots in one of the worlds most recognised media groups, their exceptional track record in delivering award-winning digital experiences, combined with our digital transformation capabilities, creates an unmatched offering for businesses across Ireland and internationally looking to grow their businesses. "This deal strengthens our ability to deliver end-to-end digital solutions while expanding our technical expertise and geographic reach. "Clients can now partner with a single agency that truly understands every aspect of their digital needs." Scott Taunton, EVP, President, News Broadcasting said: "Zesty has been part of the family for us across many years, but it has become clear that to achieve its long-term growth potential, an owner with an aligned skill and mindset would best serve the agency. "In Granite, I believe we have found that owner. I'm extremely proud of what the team at Zesty has achieved, and I'm excited to see them build on that with Conor and the team at Granite." Granite, which was founded in Cork in 2009, also has offices in Dublin, Cork, Galway, New York, and Dubai. Plans for new police station in heart of Belfast Harbour Proposal to convert ground floor of office into cop shop sparked by growing development of area Lagan House James McNaney Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 07:00 Belfast Harbour plans to turn the ground floor of an office building into a new police station for officers who patrol the area. Review: From chicken burgers to beef baos heres what to eat at Belfasts newest food market John Mulgrew pays a visit to Halt at the former Europa Bus Centre Halt at the former Europa Bus Centre John Mulgrew Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 14:00 If I were a betting man, Id say someone on the development end of Halt once paid a visit to Milan Centrale station in the heart of the northern Italian city. The newly opened Harbourview Hotel is offering unique whiskey experiences There are some parts of a hotel that guests rarely get to see. Every one of them has those unglamorous functional areas like kitchens, stores and laundry rooms where only the staff usually go. So when general manager Paul Truscott recently suggested going into that end of the Harbourview Hotel in Carnlough, there had to be a good reason. The mother of a nine-year-old girl who died from hyponatraemia has lost a High Court battle over her condition not being formally recorded at inquest as hospital acquired. Students in Northern Ireland have recorded some of the best A-level results in the UK. Some 85.8% of students here scored either a C or above in their results this year the highest proportion in the UK. Last year this figure was 85.1% while in 2019 it was 85%. The figures come as thousands of local students receive their results this morning. Isabelle Myles and Hollie Wilson receive their A-level results at Sullivan Upper School in Holywood on Thursday. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Some 30.4% of entries here were awarded A or A*, higher than the equivalent figure for Wales (29.5%) and the whole of England (28.2%). Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle O'Neill said she was wishing young people collecting their results the very best. "Youve all shown incredible dedication, and I hope you are proud of all youve accomplished, she wrote. If your grades arent quite what youd hoped for, please dont lose heart. Speak to your teachers or parents, the support and opportunities are always there to help you pursue your aspirations in life. Each of you holds remarkable potential, and with perseverance, you can achieve any goal or dream you set your sights on. Education Minister Paul Givan (centre) with students receiving their A-level results at Rathmore Grammar School in Finaghy, Belfast. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Speaking during a visit to Rathmore Grammar School, Education Minister Paul Givan said: Once again, our pupils have delivered an outstanding performance. I wish each of them every success as they take the next step in their journey, whether that is further education, employment, or training. He added: Some students may find that their results are not quite what they had hoped for, and I want to reassure them not to lose heart. This is just one part of a much bigger journey." Mr Givan thanked teachers, saying they continue to work tirelessly to be at the centre of delivering successful education outcomes for our young people. "Todays results are testament to their commitment, dedication and passion to shaping the futures of our young people, he added. Also offering his praise for pupils was the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn. He said the results were a testament to their hard work and the dedication of their teachers, schools and families. These results represent not just individual achievements, but Northern Ireland's future prosperity and success, he added. The total number of A-level entries in Northern Ireland has remained stable with 32,275 entries this year. Some 8.7% of entries achieved the A* grade, compared to 8.2% in 2024. The 30.4% of entries achieving grades A* - A compared to 30.3% in 2024. Overall, 98.7% of students in Northern Ireland achieved A* - E grades, compared to 98.5% in 2024. Over one third (37.3%) of A level entries in Northern Ireland continue to be in STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Mathematics remains the most popular A-level subject, accounting for one in 10 entries. This year, AS level entries are up from 41,180 in 2024 to 43,362 this year, an increase of 5.3%.In provisional AS outcomes, 27.2% of students achieved grade A, compared to 26.7% in 2024. Overall, 96.7% achieved A - E grades, compared to 96.4% in 2024. MLA warns lives are being put at risk A spate of arson attacks on 5G masts in Belfast is putting lives at risk, police have warned. In the latest incident, firefighters responded to reports of the mast alight on Annandale Embankment shortly after 10.15pm last night. One fire appliance attended alongside the PSNI. The fire failed to take hold of the full mast. Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey is among those local politicians who have condemned the latest attack. This is senseless vandalism on vital piece of infrastructure that does nothing but cause destruction, she said. Those responsible have caused harm to our community and put lives at risk. SDLP councillor Gary McKeown added: "This mindless attack on an essential piece of infrastructure will impact on people's daily lives right across the area. The mobile signal is bad enough in Belfast without ridiculous acts like this adding to it. "We all rely on our mobile phones as part of our daily lives, but some members of our community are particularly dependent on them, whether it's older people living alone, carers, or people running community organisations or small businesses. This is who will be hit the hardest by this misguided vandalism. "We've already seen a spate of similar attacks in west Belfast. The last thing anyone wants to see is it spreading to other parts of the city. This has to stop." Police at the mast on Wednesday night (Photo by Kevin Scott) A series of attacks on masts have also taken place in west Belfast over recent months. Inspector Roisin Brown of the PSNI condemned the attack, highlighting the dangers involved in the incidents. "Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, following a report that a 5G mast was alight, shortly after 10.15pm, she said. "This is just one of a number of 5G masts that have been set on fire recently and I cannot emphasise enough the dangers of lighting fire to electrical equipment. "This is extremely reckless, and those responsible are putting themselves and members of the public at serious risk. We are treating this as arson, and would ask that anyone with information contact us on 101 quoting reference 1956 of 13/08/25. A NIFRS spokesperson said: Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in a 5G mast at Annadale Embankment, Belfast. "Firefighters used 1 CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the fire and the scene was handed over to the PSNI. The cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate ignition and the incident was dealt with by 11.04pm. Councillors turned down new applications for HMO status in Stranmillis Park, Riverview Street and four flats on India Street. A HMO application in the Rosetta area of east Belfast has been rejected after City Hall was inundated with 129 local objections. The application was unanimously rejected by elected representatives at a meeting of Belfast City Councils planning committee this week. The proposal, for 41 Rosetta Road, BT6, involved the change of use of the first and second floor level and part of the ground floor level to create a six bed/six person HMO. The application also involved a ground floor extension and alterations to provide a retail unit, as well as a two storey rear extension, and rear dormer window. The current property is a two storey building with a retail unit at ground floor selling catering equipment. The first floor is currently office and storage space. Houses of Multiple Occupation, also known as a house-share residencies, which landlords lease out to three or more tenants from different addresses, have become increasingly controversial, with some arguing they have negatively affected communities and led to anti-social behaviour, in places like the Holylands and Stranmillis in south Belfast. Councillors turned down new applications for HMO status in Stranmillis Park, Riverview Street and four flats on India Street. Belfast History Explained: The Story of the River Farset Applications for new HMO licences have increased in other parts of the city in recent years. A series of applications have been refused across Belfast, but many applicants are successfully appealing the decisions via the Planning Appeals Commission. The last HMO application to be refused by Belfast City Council was in the Market area of Belfast, earlier this summer, after City Hall received nearly 300 local objections. HMO licence renewal cannot be refused on the basis of overprovision of such properties in an area, but new licences can be refused on this basis. While the council policy is that HMOs should not account for more than 20% of any area of housing management, in reality many streets exceed this, with some in the Holylands reaching over 90%. Outside housing policy areas the threshold is 10%. Council planning officers recommended the application at 41 Rosetta Road for approval, with conditions. Elected members conducted a site visit for the application in June. The planning officer wrote in the application report: The proposal is compliant with policy in that the 10% threshold for HMOs on this stretch of the Rosetta Road has not been exceeded. The application site also has a frontage onto Wynchurch Road and for completeness a search of the number of HMOs was checked for this street which found there to be no existing HMOs. Officers consider that the scheme will not be harmful in terms of traffic, parking and impact on the amenity of the surrounding area. The council received 129 objections regarding the application, including an objection by Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw, who appeared at the Planning Committee meeting in support of objectors. Issues raised by objectors raise issues of parking, traffic and road safety, waste and refuse collection, anti-social behaviour, transient occupation and noise. They also said there would be adverse impact on the sewage network, raised the threat of flooding, and added the development was not in keeping with the local character. Some raised the issue of overcrowding at the development, while others said it would devalue local properties. Read more Stormonts housing targets could be hit by decline in building of social homes At the Planning Committee meeting, Ms Bradshaw said: It is an area that has historic flooding, dating back to 2012, with raw sewage backing up during storm surges. Existing drainage infrastructure is already overburdened, and cannot in the opinion of the objectors, sustain additional demand. Northern Ireland Water has recommended a refusal due to infrastructure concerns, and the application contradicts Belfasts Climate Resilience Strategy, which aims to mitigate flood risk, and promote sustainable development. No additional parking has been provided for residents, violating the Belfast Local Development Plan policy eight. Pedestrian safety risks are augmented by this, due to pavement misuse, especially around the schools. She added: In terms of overcrowding it is proposed this space would be the equivalent of a typical three bed, semi-detached house, but what we are seeing here are far more units than the propertys footprint can cater for. Alliance councillor Tara Brooks successfully proposed refusal of the application at the meeting. She said: The quality of the design isnt really within the existing context. The extension sits well forward, interrupting the existing building line. The top floor is really poor quality space, with very limited headroom. I think flooding is repeated year after year, with surface water coming up from the sewers. "When I was there for the site visit, there was no parking. In fact cars were parked across the pavement, which is one of my bug bears. After years of work and months of worry, there were smiles and hugs at schools across Northern Ireland as pupils received their A-level results. At Sullivan Upper School in Holywood, a number of students arrived early on Thursday morning to get their long-awaited results in the school gym. Isabelle Myles (left) and Hollie Wilson receive their A-level results at Sullivan Upper School in Holywood (Liam McBurney/PA) Among them was Hollie Wilson who said she was excited after achieving an A in geography, a B in history and a B in government and politics. She said: I needed three Bs to get into university at York. I got all that I needed but I also got the A in the subject that I wanted to prove myself most in so Im very happy that I got that A. I am going to study international relations and politics and I am very excited. Isabelle Myles was delighted to receive A*s in biology, chemistry and further maths. She said: I am hoping to study medicine at the University of Liverpool. My offer was for two Bs so Ive got in. I am very excited. Two years of hard work and it has paid off so Im very happy. It is just a lot of relief for all of us. I want to be a doctor. The two parts, science and the human body, they are fascinating. To be able to use my skills to help people live their lives to the fullest would just be amazing. I have always wanted to do neuroscience but I guess well see what happens when I begin studying. Robbie Barnett receives his A-level results (Liam McBurney/PA) Robbie Barnett will be going to Cambridge to study natural science after receiving A*s in chemistry, physics and further maths. He said: I am very relieved, very happy. Regarding his university course, he said: My mum did it. It is a mixed science course, there are physics modules and world leaders will be teaching it. Meanwhile, pupils attended Rathmore Grammar School in Belfast where they had a visit from Education Minister Paul Givan. Head girl Cliodhna Logan receiving her A-level results at Rathmore Grammar School (Liam McBurney/PA) Head girl Cliodhna Logan said she did better than expected after receiving four A*s in chemistry, biology, maths and physics. She now aims to study medicine at Queens University Belfast. She said: There are so many different ways you can go in that, it will probably take me a bit of time to work it out, Ive got five years to do that. I was just hoping I would get enough to get me into Queens, so is a big relief. My folks were not expecting it either. They said I got better than what I deserved! There were a few last-minute cramming sessions. Molly Melville was pleased with her results (Liam McBurney/PA) Molly Melville received four A*s and an A. Her impressive collection of results included Spanish, which she did outside of school. She said: Honestly I didnt know what to expect, it was kind of a toss-up. Since Id done the exams so long ago Id kind of forgotten how they went. It was a surprise this morning. She said she now wants to study medicine. She said: I really like the thought of helping people and I really like the research aspect of it, kind of making a difference in the world. Head boy Isaac Robinson receiving his A-level results (Liam McBurney/PA) Head boy Isaac Robinson received an A in physics and A*s in maths and further maths He said: I am really relieved. It is not that it was stressful, but it was a heavy few days before. I think the further maths was a very difficult paper. I am just glad I did well, I didnt think I would get an A* to be honest. I think my parents were more relieved than I was. He will now go to Queens University to study actuary. He said: I am really interested in the career path. I was going to do maths initially but then I changed my mind. You get a placement year, so I think it is really good to get out and get some experience. I am fascinated by the problem solving aspect to it. I have a few friends in the year above who are doing it and also some cousins. Gavin Duffy will now study music in London (Liam McBurney/PA) Gavin Duffy will study music and Kings College London after receiving an A* in the subject as well as two further As. He said: I think there are more opportunities there for me. I think London is such a great place that I cant wait to live there and explore there. It will be amazing. I heard they have an amazing music department there and I was awarded a choral scholarship there as well. I am over the moon, I am so excited. It is the only place in London which offers choral scholarships. My main thing is singing but I do play violin and piano. I just love to be on stage and performing in front of people. Knives were among weapons that were reported during an altercation in Dungannon on Thursday, police have said. The Police Service of Northern Ireland is appealing for information and witnesses following the report of the incident at the Irish Street-Shambles Lane area of Dungannon. Sergeant Fletcher said: At around 4:45pm, it was reported that a number of males were fighting and that weapons including knives were produced. At this time there have been no reports of any serious injuries. Inquiries are ongoing and I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed this or anyone who may have information including dash-cam, CCTV or any other footage to contact us on 101 quoting reference 1190 14/08/25. The PSNI said witnesses can also submit a report online via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/ or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Around 538,000 people can speak the language in Wales (PA) There has been a dramatic drop in the number of pupils studying Welsh at A-level, with almost a third fewer taking the subject than two decades ago. More than 500 fewer students studied Welsh to a high level this year than in 2005, the latest data shows. The drop has come despite the Welsh Government having set a target of one million Welsh speakers by 2050. Around 538,000 people can speak the language in Wales. Data examined by the PA news agency shows some 372 students took Welsh as a first or second language at A-level this year, down from 927 in 2005. The lowest year on record was 2023, when just 353 pupils took the subject. This year has been the lowest year for people taking Welsh as a first language, with 185 entries, compared with 260 in 2020. Some 187 pupils took the subject as a second language, with 209 having taken it in 2020. Efa Gruffudd Jones, the Welsh Language Commissioner an officer appointed by the Welsh Government to oversee an independent body aiming to promote the use of the Welsh language described the drop as a matter of concern. Speaking to PA, Ms Gruffudd Jones said she supported calls from the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol (Welsh National College) for Welsh to become a protected subject. She said: (This would) make sure that every educational institution post-16 offers the course. What I hear from people who get in touch with my office, if only you know three or four people want to study it, then schools dont offer the subject at all. I believe they need 12 before they decide to run the course. I dont think thats right. I think it should be offered at every educational institution post-16. Ms Gruffudd Jones also said the qualification itself is under review, and the content needs to be made more attractive and relevant to students. She added: The other thing is that you can study many more courses through the medium of Welsh now than you used to be able to. You can study psychology, criminology, etc, through the medium of Welsh. Maybe people in the past who would have wanted to study through the medium of Welsh chose Welsh, but now they have a wider range of choice. The commissioner stressed that Welsh is not the only language to have seen a decline, with many European languages having seen a drop across the UK. Total entries for French, German, and Spanish were down by 20% from 443 to 352 in Wales this year, with Ruth Cocks, director of British Council Wales, describing the drop in interest in international languages as a concerning story. Ms Gruffudd Jones said the reason for the move away from studying languages was unclear, but may be due to pupils being encouraged to study more Stem subjects. I understand that we need people with technical ability, but I would argue that you also need linguistic ability in order to communicate with people in workplaces, to articulate yourself well in future, she said. I would argue that literature gives you some insight into the world. I dont think really that it should be either or. Whats important is that it doesnt go any lower, and we continue to make efforts to attract people to learn Welsh to a high standard. The Welsh Governments aim to have one million Welsh speakers by 2050 was first set out in 2017. Earlier this year, a new five-year plan was unveiled by the commissioner to help achieve the goal. And the Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Bill, which aims to close the gap in Welsh speaking ability among pupils from different schools, passed in the Senedd. Figures from the 2021 census showed a decline in the number of people who can speak Welsh compared with a decade earlier. Around 538,000 people in Wales roughly 17% of the population said they could speak Welsh, compared with 562,000 in 2011, around 19% of the population. Recent years have seen Welsh place names take prominence over English as the default, with Eryri replacing Snowdonia on official communications from the national park authority. In response to the decline in A-level entries, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: We would like more learners to take Welsh as a subject. A consultation is taking place to look at creating new Welsh AS and A-levels, making them engaging and attractive to learners. We see the Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Act 2025 as a means to provide more children and young people with access to the language within the education sector than ever before. We want all young people to leave school with better Welsh skills, regardless of whether they do A-level Welsh or not. European leaders including Sir Keir Starmer could attend a second meeting with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky which could bring the war in Ukraine to an end, the US president has said. On the eve of the summit, Mr Trump said leaders from Europe, which could include members of the so-called coalition of the willing that have supported Ukraine, could attend a subsequent meeting if the event in Alaska on Friday is successful. The Prime Minister has been a key player in the group which has also included French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office at the White House, Mr Trump said: We have a meeting with President (Vladimir) Putin tomorrow, I think its going to be a good meeting. Polands Prime Minister Donald Tusk with Sir Keir Starmer, Volodymyr Zelensky, Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz (Stefan Rousseau/PA) But the more important meeting will be the second meeting that were having. Were going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe well bring some of the European leaders along. Maybe not. He added: I think President Putin will make peace. I think President Zelensky will make peace. Well see if they can get along. And if they can it will be great. Mr Trump said the summit aims to bring peace to Ukraine, and save a lot of lives. Earlier this week the US leader told his European counterparts that his goal for the summit was to secure a ceasefire. Sir Keir chaired a meeting of the coalition of the willing on Wednesday a European-led effort to send a peacekeeping force to Ukraine to monitor any deal and said there was a viable chance of a truce. It came after Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky met on Thursday at Downing Street, where they said there was strong resolve for peace in Ukraine. Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky after their meeting at Downing Street (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The two leaders embraced as the red carpet was rolled out for Mr Zelenskys arrival in Downing Street, and they later had breakfast. They expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about ending the war, a Downing Street statement said. In a separate statement, Mr Zelensky said there had been discussions about the security guarantees required to make any deal truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killing. But concerns linger over the prospect of Kyiv being excluded from negotiations over its own future, and pressured to cede territory, after Mr Trump suggested any agreement may need to involve swapping of land. Ukraine has already rejected any proposal that would compromise its borders. In a readout of the morning meeting between Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky, a Downing Street spokesman said: They had a private breakfast where they discussed yesterdays meetings. They agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin (Vyacheslav Prokofyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo/AP) During the meeting on Thursday, Mr Zelensky urged the UK to join PURL Natos Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative to provide weapons to Kyiv. It is important that, within the framework of the coalition of the willing, we should all be able to achieve effective formats for security co-operation, he later said. We also discussed the continuation of support programmes for our army and our defence industry. Under any scenario, Ukraine will maintain its strength. The Times reported that Britain was planning to scale back its plans for a military peacekeeping force in Ukraine. UK military chiefs are said to be considering air reassurance over western Ukraine, training support to the Ukrainian military and the clearance of mines from the Black Sea. The Government has been contacted for comment. Further sanctions could be imposed on Russia should the Kremlin fail to engage and the UK is already working on its next package of measures targeting Moscow, the Prime Minister said. Were ready to support this, including from the plans weve already drawn up to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, Sir Keir told allies on Wednesday. It is important to remind colleagues that we do stand ready also to increase pressure on Russia, particularly the economy, with sanctions and wider measures as may be necessary. Heat health alerts were extended into next week for much of England (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Weather warnings have been issued for thunderstorms and heat alerts extended as the fourth heatwave of the summer continues. The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning covering northern Scotland until 10pm on Thursday. Flood alerts have also been issued for Scotland. People sheltering from the rain in Aldgate, London (Lucy North/PA) It comes as heat health alerts were extended into next week for much of England. The UK Health Security Agency said yellow warnings will now be in place for Yorkshire and Humber, the East and West Midlands, London and the South East, South West and East of England until 6pm on August 18. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency said heavy thundery showers or rain may affect the region on Thursday, with a risk of significant localised flooding effects from surface water and smaller rivers. Heavy rain and thunder hit London and Kent on Wednesday afternoon. But officials have said England is suffering from nationally significant water shortfalls. 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. People eat ice cream at Telford Town Park, Shropshire during the fourth heatwave of summer (Jacob King/PA) 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. Serbian gendarmerie officers separate protesters from opposing camps during an anti-government protest in Belgrade, Serbia (Darko Vojinovic/AP) Nearly 50 protesters have been detained across Serbia and dozens of people were injured as violence spiralled following more than nine months of largely peaceful protests against the populist rule of President Aleksandar Vucic, police said on Thursday. The gatherings, which followed an outbreak of unrest on Tuesday night, were organised at some 90 locations on Wednesday evening, said interior minister Ivica Dacic at a press conference. Wednesdays unrest started in the northern city of Novi Sad when supporters of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party threw flares at anti-government protesters who had been marching past the party offices, according to video from the scene. Serbian gendarmerie officers separate protesters from opposing camps during an anti-government protest in Belgrade, Serbia (Darko Vojinovic/AP) Clashes there continued throughout the evening with rival groups hurling various objects at each other amid clouds of smoke and chaos. An army security officer at the SNS party offices at one point fired his gun in the air, saying later he felt his life had been in danger. The incidents marked an escalation in the persistent protests led by Serbias university students that have rattled Mr Vucics increasingly autocratic rule in Serbia. Similar clashes were also reported on Tuesday evening. The Serbian president has faced accusations of stifling democratic freedoms and of allowing organised crime and corruption to flourish, which he has denied. Serbian gendarmerie officers separate protesters from opposing camps during an anti-government protest in Belgrade, Serbia (Darko Vojinovic/AP) Interior minister Dacic accused the protesters of attacking the governing party loyalists. He said those who broke the law will be identified and sanctioned. Skirmishes also erupted in the capital Belgrade where riot police used tear gas to disperse groups of protesters. Riot police formed a cordon around a makeshift camp of Mr Vucics loyalists outside the presidency building downtown. University students posted on X to accuse the authorities of trying to provoke a civil war with the clashes at demonstrations that passed without incident even while drawing hundreds of thousands of people. Serbian gendarmerie officers separate protesters from opposing camps during an anti-government protest in Belgrade, Serbia (Darko Vojinovic/AP) Police were guarding the regime loyalists who were throwing rocks and firing flares at the protesters, the students added. Demonstrations started in November after a renovated train station canopy crashed in Novi Sad, killing 16 people and triggering accusations of corruption in state-run infrastructure projects. More protests are planned on Thursday evening. The protesters are demanding that Mr Vucic call an early parliamentary election, which he has refused to do. Serbia is formally seeking European Union membership, but Mr Vucic has maintained strong ties with Russia and China. The LVF was formed in 1996, when the UVF expelled Wright, its renegade mid-Ulster brigade commander.Wright was murdered in 1997 by the INLA in the Maze Prison Once a charismatic leader in the UVF, Billy Wright broke away to form the LVF, leading to murderous feuds with his former gang as well as the sectarian murder of Catholics. The LVF was formed in 1996, when the UVF expelled its renegade mid-Ulster brigade commander. 'King Rat was himself gunned down in 1997, inside the Maze maximum security prison, with a gun smuggled in. How did the INLAs Crip McWilliams get his hand on a gun inside the jail and what was the LVFs bloody response? Ciaran Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraphs security correspondent Allison Morris. This podcast was originally recorded and released in August 2022. NI minister was hung out to dry by church leaders over false claim he had an affair Married minister stepped down from role after anonymous call as fellow clergyman rounds on Presbyterian kangaroo court Rev Reid and his wife Ashley Angela Davison Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 19:40 A minister has revealed he came under scrutiny from Church of Ireland leaders after questioning the treatment of a neighbouring Presbyterian minister falsely accused of having an affair. 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. BENNINGTON The driver in a head-on collision in Manchester over five years ago that crossed over the center line, resulting in serious injuries to both drivers, was found not guilty of felony gross negligence, but convicted on a lesser charge at a jury trial Wednesday in Bennington. It took a jury of seven women and five men less than an hour to acquit Derek Bushee, now 43, in the June 2020 crash that seriously injured Bushee and the other driver along a curving, narrow road in Manchester. Once the jury made its decision, it was required by Vermont law to consider a lesser charge of negligence with injury, a less serious misdemeanor charge carrying a lighter penalty. The jury found Bushee guilty on the lesser charge. Bushee, who was being held at the time of the trial, was then released as Bennington Judge Jennifer Barrett struck his current felony bail and ordered him to return for a sentencing hearing sometime next month. Im glad its finally over with, Bushee said as he made his way out of the courtroom. Its been five years of this long, drawn-out thing. Bushee was initially facing a possible 15-year jail sentence if he was found guilty of the felony gross negligence charge. He now faces a potential two-year prison sentence and is expected to receive less than the maximum for the now misdemeanor conviction. Bushee was 38 back in 2020 when his 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spider collided with a Chevrolet Equinox along a curved section of East Manchester Road, injuring three individuals, including himself. According to an affidavit at the time, Bushee was allegedly drinking and speeding when his Mitsubishi Eclipse Spider entered the oncoming lane on a curve and slammed into an oncoming vehicle driven by a 55-year-old Manchester woman who was picking up her son from a friends house. In a sworn statement to police, the woman said she was traveling eastbound along East Manchester Road right before the Route 7 overpass when she spotted the tires of an oncoming vehicle leave the westbound lane of traffic and enter her lane. In the seconds that followed, she slammed on the brakes and went as far to the shoulder as safely possible moments before the Mitsubishi driven by Bushee allegedly hit her head-on, deploying the cars airbag. The victim was transported to Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, where she was found to have a severe arm fracture and a broken wrist that required multiple surgeries, an ongoing nerve damage issue, and anxiety years after the accident. When police responded to the scene, they found Bushees Mitsubishi stopped on the wrong side of the road with a broken windshield and damage to the front of the car, according to court documents. Bushee was sitting in the vehicle, still conscious, with a severe forehead wound. Police noted a 3-inch gash with his skull visible. Police rendered aid and noticed Bushee had not been wearing a seatbelt during the accident. Police also spotted an open beer can on its side on the passenger seat. According to police, the can was still cold and half full. They also noted the scent of intoxicants inside the vehicle and on Bushee. While attempting to locate Bushees registration, police inside the glovebox noticed a cloth bag filled with glassine envelopes of what they believed was heroin. Bushee was airlifted to Albany Medical Center for his injuries. The defense argued at trial and in their closing argument that the Manchester Police had botched the investigation by not documenting the scene properly and not following up with a possible DUI test. Instead, the defense told the jury that the state had relied purely on a victims statement and a hand-drawn map by the victim showing what she perceived had happened. The state prosecutor countered by noting the open beer container in the back seat and the recollection of the responding officer that Bushee had noticed the odor of intoxicating beverages. The jury ultimately decided that there wasnt enough evidence to convict on the felony gross negligence charge. Instead, the defendant was convicted on the lesser misdemeanor negligence charge. Bushee has an outstanding violation of conditions charge stemming from conditions in the gross negligence charge. He faces a possible six months in jail if found guilty of the violation. Both sides will contest Bushees sentencing hearing. The presiding judge will determine the ultimate length of his sentence. 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. At a relative or friends funeral, you sit in the midst of a plethora of memories, some of them the same as yours, some vastly different, some to be exchanged in the story-telling aftermath. It was like that when Barrington Stage Company celebrated the life of one of its stars, Bill Finn, in a sold-out event last week. 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. You are the owner of this article. Quality local journalism needs your support Access this story and all of our stories with 24/7 unlimited access. Subscribe today. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now for 99 Subscriber Sign In | Return Home Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Letter: Restorative justice should be the norm, not a carveout for the privileged BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. 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. The Data Protection Commission has launched an investigation into Children's Health Ireland over a data breach at one of its facilities. It relates to physical safety and security of children's health records within one specific CHI facility in Tallaght, Co Dublin, Newstalk reported. Advertisement The Data Protection Commission said it became aware of potential issues at the site from a number of different sources. They include protected disclosures and a breach notification submitted by Children's Health Ireland, according to Newstalk. The DPC carried out an unannounced site inspection on July 16th, after it reviewed the available information. The formal inquiry is to examine CHI's compliance with its GDPR obligations, in particular relating to the security of personal data, and the processes CHI has in place for managing physical records in the facility in Tallaght. CHI said it is cooperating fully with the Data Protection Commission. A majority of recent attacks on the Indian community appear to have been carried out by young people, the Justice Minister has said. The Ireland India Council said there is an organised social media campaign against the Indian community in Ireland and the number of violent attacks has intensified since January. Advertisement In a statement on Thursday, Minister Jim OCallaghan said he had met representatives of the council and the Federation of Indian Communities in Ireland. He said: Any attack against innocent members of the public such as those suffered by members of the Indian community are totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Attacks on individuals because of their inherent characteristics including race are abhorrent to the values of our republic and are condemned by any right-thinking people. What I find most concerning about these attacks is that the majority appear to have been carried out by young people. Advertisement I have been informed that Garda juvenile liaison officers are engaging with the respective communities and youth groups on the matter. Mr OCallaghan said he engaged extensively with the Garda commissioner on the matter and senior investigating officers had been assigned to investigate all reported incidents. A man in his 60s has died after getting into difficulty swimming off in the Co Waterford coast. The incident happened at Boatstrand at around 9am on Thursday. Advertisement Emergency services were alerted to reports that a man was in difficulty in the sea. A multi-agency response got underway which included the Irish Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 117, Tramore RNLI lifeboat and multiple shore units. The mans body was recovered at 11am and taken ashore. A post mortem is due to be carried out in the coming days in University Hospital Waterford (UHW). The Government facilitates failures at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI), Sinn Fein has said, as the State data watchdog launched a probe into its handling of child health records. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) opened an inquiry on Thursday into the physical safety and security of childrens health records within one specific CHI facility in Tallaght. Advertisement The DPC said it became aware there were potential issues at this site from a number of sources of information, including through protected disclosures and a breach notification from CHI itself. Having reviewed the information, the DPC conducted an unannounced site inspection on July 16th and has now decided to launch a formal inquiry. The probe will examine CHIs compliance with their GDPR obligations, in particular relating to the security of personal data and the processes that it has in place for managing physical records at CHI Tallaght. Asked about the matter, Sinn Fein health spokesman David Cullinane said there had been a series of clinical, governance and management failures at CHI. Advertisement He said these included the implantation of unauthorised non-medical grade springs, unnecessary hip surgeries, and problems around insourcing. Mr Cullinane said he has absolutely no confidence in CHI, adding that the trust between CHI and parents had been shattered. He said: But its the Government that facilitates and allows an organisation of Childrens Health Ireland to continue with all of those failures. And whats really frustrating for advocate groups and campaign groups and families is that all of these failures that were now hearing about, they were raising, they were talking about. Advertisement They were telling the stories, and they were ignored, and they were met with the wall of resistance. Three men have been arrested after 168,000 of cannabis was seized in Coolock, Co Dublin on Wednesday. During the course of the operation, a man in his 20s was stopped and searched in the Dublin 5 area. Advertisement Over 5,000 of cannabis herb was seized. The man was arrested in connection with the investigation and detained at a Garda Station in the North Dublin area. He has since been charged, and is due to appear before the courts at a later date. During follow-up searches at a number of locations in the Coolock area, canabis with a value in excess of 163,000 was seized. Two men, aged in their 20s and 40s were arrested in connection with the investigation, and detained at a Garda Station in the North Dublin area. They have since been charged, and are due to appear before the Criminal Courts of Justice on Thursday. The seized drugs are subject to analysis by Forensic Science Ireland (FSI). Gardai say investigations are ongoing. An Irish man who was arrested earlier this month with his son in Ecuador, allegedly in possession of a large amount of cocaine, has died in prison. The man, believed to have been in his early 60s, was arrested in Guayaquil Airport, according to The Irish Times. Advertisement Local police alleged he and his son were on their way to Madrid with 15 blocks of cocaine. The mans son is still in prison in the South American country, through which a large amount of the worlds cocaine travels on its way from Peru and Colombia to Europe, the US and elsewhere. The Department of Foreign Affairs said it was aware of the case and was providing consular assistance. It is believed the man died of natural causes, but this could not be confirmed by The Irish Times. Ecuador has experienced a significant growth in gang- and drug-related crime in recent years and has struggled to accommodate the rise in the number of inmates in its prisons. A report last year by Amnesty International said an estimated 600 people had by then died in prisons in Ecuador in the period from 2019. Israels far-right finance minister has announced approval of contentious new settlement construction in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Palestinians and rights groups worry the move will scuttle plans for a future Palestinian state by effectively cutting the West Bank into two separate parts. Advertisement The announcement comes as many countries, including Australia France, and Canada said they would recognise a Palestinian state in September. This reality finally buries the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing to recognise and no one to recognise, said finance minister Bezalel Smotrich during a ceremony on Thursday. Anyone in the world who tries today to recognise a Palestinian state will receive an answer from us on the ground. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet publicly commented on the plan, but he has touted it in the past. Advertisement Development in E1, an open tract of land east of Jerusalem, has been under consideration for more than two decades, but was frozen due to US pressure during previous administrations. On Thursday, Mr Smotrich praised President Donald Trump and US ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee as true friends of Israel as we have never had before. The E1 plan is expected to receive final approval August 20, capping off 20 years of bureaucratic wrangling. The planning committee on August 6 rejected all of the petitions to stop the construction filed by rights groups and activists. Advertisement Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich speaks to journalists during a press conference about a new settlement construction in the Israel-occupied West Bank (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP) While some bureaucratic steps remain, if the process moves quickly, infrastructure work could begin in the next few months and construction of homes could start in around a year. The approval is a colonial, expansionist, and racist move, Ahmed al Deek, the political adviser to the minister of Palestinian Foreign Affairs, told The Associated Press on Thursday. It falls within the framework of the extremist Israeli governments plans to undermine any possibility of establishing a Palestinian state on the ground, to fragment the West Bank, and to separate its southern part from the centre and the north, Mr al Deek said. Rights groups also swiftly condemned the plan. Advertisement Peace Now called it deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution which is guaranteeing many more years of bloodshed. The announcement comes as the Palestinian Authority and Arab countries condemned Mr Netanyahus statement in an interview on Tuesday 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. Israels plans to expand settlements are part of an increasingly difficult reality for Palestinians in the occupied West Bank as the worlds attention focuses on Gaza. Advertisement An area near Maale Adumim in the Israeli-occupied West Bank (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP) There have been marked increases in settler attacks against Palestinians, evictions from Palestinian towns and checkpoints that choke freedom of movement. There also have been several Palestinian attacks on Israelis during the course of the war. More than 700,000 Israelis now live in the occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, territories captured by Israel in 1967 and sought by the Palestinians for a future state. The international community overwhelmingly considers Israeli settlement construction in these areas to be illegal and obstacles to peace. Israels government is dominated by religious and ultranationalist politicians with close ties to the settlement movement. Mr Smotrich, previously a firebrand settler leader, has been granted cabinet-level authority over settlement policies and vowed to double the settler population in the West Bank. Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians claim all three territories for a future independent state. Israel has annexed east Jerusalem and claims it as part of its capital, which is not internationally recognised. It says the West Bank is disputed territory whose fate should be determined through negotiations, while Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005. US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he would ask the Republican-controlled Congress to extend federal control of Washington's city police force beyond 30 days, escalating his campaign to exert presidential power over the nation's capital. Trump also asserted that any congressional action could serve as a model for other US cities. He has previously threatened to expand his efforts to other Democratic-run cities such as Chicago that he claims have failed to address crime. Advertisement The Republican president's extraordinary moves in Washington are reflective of how he has approached his second term in office, shattering political norms and legal concerns to test the limits of his office's power. It was not clear how Trump's takeover of Washington's Metropolitan Police Department could be replicated elsewhere. In seizing control on Monday, Trump took advantage of a federal law, the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, that permits the president to do so under emergency circumstances for up to 30 days. There is no basis for Trump to attempt similar takeovers in other cities, according to John P. Fishwick Jr., a former federal prosecutor in Virginia, who said that Washington represents a "unique situation." Trump also announced on Monday that he was deploying 800 National Guard troops to the city, a tactic he employed in Los Angeles in June when he mobilised thousands of Guard soldiers and US Marines over the objections of state and local officials in response to protests over his administration's immigration raids. Advertisement Separately, hundreds of federal officers and agents from more than a dozen agencies have fanned out across Washington in recent days. Trump has painted a picture of the US capital as a city gripped by a wave of crime and pervasive homelessness, despite both federal and city crime statistics showing that violent crime has declined precipitously since a spike in 2023. Trump said on Wednesday that the city's crime statistics were a "total fraud," without providing evidence, and that the public would soon see a "big change" in the figures. US Attorney General Pam Bondi told FOX Noticias that officials were looking into whether the city's statistics last year were manipulated. Advertisement Hundreds of officers on patrol The office of Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, declined to respond on Trump's latest comments. Bowser has sought to strike a diplomatic tone in recent days while also noting that violent crime in the city hit a 30-year low last year. Still, as big US cities go, Washington remains more dangerous than many others based on its homicide rate. In 2024, there were about 26 homicides per 100,000 residents, according to crime data compiled from 36 of the largest US cities by the non-partisan Washington-based Council on Criminal Justice. Only four of the 36 had higher homicide rates: Baltimore, Detroit, Memphis and St. Louis. It is not yet clear what the takeover of Washington's police force means in practice. Chief Pamela Smith has framed the federalisation of her department as a collaborative partnership with federal law enforcement agencies, rather than a direct federal takeover, and says she still answers to Mayor Bowser. Advertisement More than 1,450 law enforcement personnel were on patrol in Washington on Tuesday night, a White House official said, including 30 National Guard troops and 750 city police officers. The official said the White House expects a "significantly higher" Guard presence on Wednesday night. The effort has resulted in 103 arrests since Aug 7th, including 43 on Tuesday, the official said. The charges include one homicide charge, 33 firearms charges and 23 immigration charges, the official said, and have led to 24 seized firearms. During the same period in 2024, the Metropolitan Police Department arrested 364 people in total, police data shows, including traffic and liquor law violations as well as murder, prostitution, carjacking, assault, theft, burglary and robbery. The MPD made 20,386 adult arrests in 2024, an average of 56 arrests a day, or nearly three times the rate cited by the White House. Advertisement The Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI on Wednesday both referred questions seeking more details on the arrests to the White House, a highly unusual deflection that signalled the White House's outsized role in overseeing the law enforcement crackdown. Trump threatens emergency declaration Asked about Trump's call for congressional action, the offices of House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, both Republicans, pointed to social media posts on Monday expressing support for Trump's actions. Any legislation to extend Trump's control over the police department would likely stall in the Senate, where Democrats can use procedural rules to block most bills. Trump told reporters on Wednesday that if Congress fails to act, he can declare a "national emergency" to extend the 30-day limit, though legal experts expressed scepticism. "There's nothing about the president extending past 30 days unilaterally," Claire Finkelstein, a University of Pennsylvania law professor, said of the Home Rule Act. "If the 30 days are up, that's that." The president has used emergency declarations to justify numerous unprecedented executive actions, including historically high tariffs on foreign imports and his wide-ranging immigration crackdown. Many have drawn lawsuits challenging his authority. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy is due in London to meet British prime minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, to take stock ahead of US president Donald Trump's key talks with Russian president Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. Zelenskiy, who was in Germany on Wednesday, has been working with European leaders to press Trump not to allow Putin to carve up Ukraine's territory at the Alaska summit. Advertisement He is due to meet Starmer at 9.30am at the British prime minister's official residence, 10 Downing Street. On Wednesday, Trump joined a Germany-hosted virtual meeting with European leaders, including Zelenskiy, who sought to set red lines ahead of the summit on ending the war in Ukraine. Zelenskiy said he warned Trump that the Russian leader was "bluffing" about his desire to end the war. Trump later threatened "severe consequences" if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine and while he did not specify what the consequences could be, he has warned of economic sanctions if his meeting on Friday proves fruitless. Advertisement The comments and the outcome of the virtual conference on Wednesday could provide encouragement for Kyiv ahead of the summit. Trump described the aim of his talks with Putin 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." Britain, France and Germany, the co-chairs of the so-called "Coalition of the Willing", set out their position on the pathway to a ceasefire in Ukraine in a statement released after Wednesday's virtual meeting. China boosts aid to UN Palestinian refugee agency, urges global backing Xinhua) 09:55, August 14, 2025 AMMAN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China signed an agreement on Wednesday to contribute to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and called for continued international support for the body, which says it faces an "existential crisis" from the war in Gaza and a severe funding gap. The contribution agreement, part of Beijing's annual donation, was signed in the Jordanian capital by Zeng Jixin, head of China's office to the State of Palestine, and Karim Amer, UNRWA's director of partnerships. Zeng praised what he called UNRWA's "indispensable" role in providing humanitarian assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees. He said China has increased its annual donation and provided medical supplies and other aid since the Gaza conflict erupted. "China calls on the international community to continue supporting UNRWA," Zeng said, adding that Beijing was ready to work toward ending the fighting and achieving a just, lasting solution based on a two-state framework. The UNRWA has faced a major funding crisis after several key donor countries suspended contributions following Israeli accusations that a dozen of the agency's staff participated in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks. While many donors have since resumed funding, the agency says it is still grappling with "very big" financial challenges. Juliette Touma, UNRWA's communications director, said the agency is also undergoing an "existential crisis" amid the devastating conflict in Gaza, where at least 340 of its staff have been killed since the war began. "China has been a dear friend of the Palestinian refugees, a dear friend of UNRWA. Their contributions are always welcome," Touma said, expressing gratitude for Beijing's support. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) 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. 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 For Rebecca F. Kuang, the easiest way to resist the internet is to carry a phone that wont cooperate. It doesnt glow, buzz, or beg for her attention and she prefers it that way. Its a statement of defiance against the glowing promise that apps would make us more connected and productive. Instead, Kuang says, theyve shredded attention spans and left us more alone than ever. My phones basically a brick. It cant access most apps, she says. People cant send me TikTok links. I can never see them. Of course, a lot of stuff is going to get caught in the net, but on the whole, its great because I spend so much more time reading and writing and cooking and being grounded in the world around me and very little time online. No X, no TikTok, no doom spiral of headlines a notable abstinence, given the starring role the internet played in her bestselling 2023 novel Yellowface, a razor-edged literary satire about a struggling white writer who swipes the manuscript and identity of her dead Chinese friend, only to face the wrath of the online mob. Rebecca Kuang photographed at the Boston Public Library. Credit: Ben Sklar That was my internet novel. It was really me getting the internet out of my system. Im actually pretty extreme about digital minimalism, Kuang, who publishes as R.F. Kuang, says. I knew I was never going to write a book like Yellowface again because that just was not a sustainable way for me to be in the world, so I felt like this freedom to do whatever I wanted with the next book. It will probably appeal to a different set of readers, and thats exciting to me, like Im tired of talking about Yellowface. Kuang is in her husband Bennett Eckert-Kuangs study in their Boston home when we speak over video not her natural habitat. Enclosed spaces, she explains, feel stifling; she prefers to work somewhere open, where the air can move and the light can spill in. But today, the fading light cuts across her face, artfully preparing us for the shadows of her new novel. Advertisement Yellowface looks down on delegates at the publishers stand during the first day of the London Book Fair in 2023. Credit: In Pictures via Getty Images If you havent read Yellowface, youve almost certainly seen it the bold, winking yellow cover staring back at you from bookshop tables and BookTok. Inside, Kuang skewers the publishing industry and the chronically online mindset with a scalpel and a smirk: taking on how technology has rewired the way we consume art, perform outrage, and weaponise accountability. Its been optioned for a scripted television series with Karyn Kusama (The Invitation, Yellowjackets, Girlfight) attached to direct. While Yellowface was strikingly topical and opened the door to a wider readership, Kuang had already been forging her path through the searing landscapes of historical fantasy with The Poppy War trilogy (20182020) and Babel (2022). Drawing on mid-20th-century Chinese history and begun when she was just 19, The Poppy War was no overnight success Kuang admits she initially felt sick to my stomach every time she thought about sales but word of mouth gradually built momentum. Meanwhile, Babel, set in 1830s England, became a BookTok hit. This steady rise meant, Kuang says, the sudden attention from Yellowface never messed me up. Rebecca Kuang attends the 2023 TIME100 Next in 2023. Credit: Getty Images As she critiqued publishings pigeonholing of authors in Yellowface, Kuang herself refuses to be confined by genre or expectation. Almost as soon as she penned the novel, Kuang admits she was bored with the frenetic, internet-fuelled tone that is omnipresent in todays literary landscape eager instead to explore new territories, both thematically and stylistically, in her work. I feel like Im still very young, and I want room to grow, so to be typecast now would feel stifling and murderous to me, she says. I think there is this sort of resistant delight to defying categorisation because when you are pretty overtly racialised or gendered, as so many people are, you do always want to be acting out against expectation. Advertisement That resentment of expectation is not what drives me. Its just something I find psychologically interesting about myself. What drives me is wanting to evolve as an artist with every project. I think it never got to my head or messed me up because Im really good at moving on to the next project. Shes also grown wary of publishings other obsession youth. In a recent piece for Time headlined Olivia Rodrigo and the Impossible Pressure to Stay a Prodigy, Kuang, 29, reflects on the pressure of being young in the literary world. The scepticism that has met her, the interest in her age rather than work, and the anxiety that the apex of her career might have come and gone. Its really stupid, I think, that we are so obsessed with young authors in literature. Literature is one of the one things that you only get better at as you get older, Kuang says. I hope Im not in my prime. I hope that my prime is decades away. Kuang might not realise it yet, given her self-imposed social media ban, but her readers are already gearing up for her sixth novel out this month. Roll your eyes at BookTokers if you like, but theyre busily assembling reading lists heavy with Homer, Virgil, Ovid, and Dante as they prepare for the release of Katabasis a richly layered, genre-bending dive into the underworld. (The title comes from the Greek word meaning descent). Rebecca Kuangs new novel, Katabasis, plays with classic texts about the afterlife. Credit: Ben Sklar In Katabasis, Cambridge doctoral student Alice Law and her nemesis Peter Murdoch wield pentagram magic to descend into the Eight Courts of Hell, all in a desperate bid to rescue their professors soul without him, their crucial recommendation letter is lost. The novel deftly plays with the classical stages of the underworld journey the descent, the ordeal, and the return (anabasis) while tipping its hat to Alice in Wonderland, T.S. Eliots The Waste Land, and even drawing from the surreal dreamscapes of Dali. Advertisement If youre counting subgenres, its a clever mashup of dark academia and historical fantasy, with an enemies-to-lovers twist. And while this might seem underworlds apart from Yellowface, Kuang is as critical as ever, cutting through the pretension, privilege, and politics of academia. If Babels Oxford setting allowed an examination of the institutions historical role as a facilitator of imperial projects, Katabasis focuses on the interpersonal the inflated egos, the skewed priorities and values, and the fraught, often toxic, relationships between students and teachers. I think of them as a duology that deals with why I love the academy so much and cant step away but why I am increasingly uncomfortable with it, Kuang says, perfectly placed to say so, having roamed some of the worlds most elite academic halls. From her undergraduate years at Georgetown University to graduate degrees at Cambridge and Oxford, shes now teaching and finishing a PhD in sinology at Yale. Her research spans Chinese-language literature and Asian American writing, focusing on Chinese American and Chinese diaspora authors and their explorations of travel, language, geography, and storytelling. Kuang who was born in Guangzhou, China, moved with her parents to Dallas, Texas, when she was four grew up in a household that valued literature highly and was always drawn to fantasy. Rebecca Kuang says she enjoys defying expectations when it comes to genres and styles. Credit: Ben Sklar She started her PhD the same year as her husband, whos pursuing philosophy at MIT, started his. They recently celebrated their first anniversary. While some couples spend their evenings arguing over whether a potato is too far gone to cook for dinner, theirs seems to involve lively debates on logic paradoxes and the quirks of rational decision-making, conversations about which inspired Katabasis. I just fell in love with the idea of logic paradoxes, especially paradoxes of rational decision-making, which feels very pertinent to how we live our lives, Kuang says. There are so many paradoxes where you make a series of decisions that seem like youre better off at every stage, and then suddenly you find yourself in a far worse position than you anticipated, with no way to claw out of it. And that seemed like a lovely way to describe being in a PhD program. Rebecca Kuang has been writing novels since she was 19. Advertisement Kuangs academic and creative worlds have never been separate they flow into one another. Her novels are set on campuses or in educational institutions, and weave in her scholarly pursuits. Her advisors often remind her to rein in her signature point of view, reminding her shes writing an essay, not fiction. I find it very difficult to keep the creative voice from seeping into my academic work. Im always having conversations with my advisor about how my academic writing needs to be a little less opinionated and have a little less of that spunk and flair that I like to bring to my fiction prose. Having reached new heights after Yellowface, Kuang could now write full-time. When asked why she hasnt stepped away from academia, the answer is simple: I like it. I feel like Im still very young, and I want room to grow, so to be typecast now would feel stifling and murderous to me. I wish I had a more sophisticated answer than that, but I think Im in a lucky position where I have multiple career options. I could be a full-time author, I could be a full-time academic, and I just enjoy both too much to give either of them up. I always tell myself, the moment it stops being engaging, Ill step away, Kuang says. For all that is frustrating and broken about academia, Im still committed to this core promise of inquiry and curiosity and sharing it with others, and I do still regularly feel that when I step into a classroom. She didnt feel the weight of expectation after Yellowface no sudden compulsion to chase its sharp success or bottle its biting style. Instead, she slipped quietly into her next chapter, boarding a flight to Taipei to plunge straight into research for a new book. Advertisement All of us who tuned into At The Movies respected him for his deep knowledge and for the gentle and generous way he passed it on. Director George Miller, who visited Stratton at home three months ago, described him as a kind of high priest or Gandalf of Australian cinema whose immense contribution included screening films at Sydney Film Festival from Asia, all over Europe, the Eastern Bloc, India and Japan that influenced the directors who were breaking through in the 1970s. Miller said if Stratton had not screened the first short film that he and producer Byron Kennedy made in 1971, Violence in the Cinema, Part 1, it would not have been distributed by Greater Union and we would not have made Mad Max That was directly attributable to David standing up for the film. Stratton grew up in England before coming to Australia under the 10-pound Pom scheme in 1963. He kept a handwritten review of the first Australian movie he remembered seeing, The Overlanders with Chips Rafferty, which he wrote, aged seven, in 1947. As the eldest son, he was destined to take over the family grocery business :Growing up I was so proud of it, of being part of the family that ran this beautiful business all across the west of England, he told Karl Quinn from this masthead in 2017. Loading But Strattons love for movies took him in a different direction, which upset his parents. [They] really didnt understand at all what was compelling me to have a career in cinema, he said. My father thought it was a complete waste of time and he never ceased saying so. He never understood. A casual holiday job as an usher at the Sydney Film Festival eventually led to a surprise offer to run the event in late 1965. He spent 18 years as director of the festival, championing foreign-language films and railing against the censorship that was rife at the time, before gaining greater fame for reviewing films on SBS and the ABC with Pomeranz. Loading Margaret and David became one of Australian televisions most famous duos. Late last year, Stratton opened up about a cruel disease that had caused the loss of sight in one eye and limited vision in the other, which threatened his habit of watching a new film every day. There was a long time when I thought Id go completely blind, he told this masthead. The doctors thought I might. It was sort of on the edge but, fortunately, we caught it in time. Apart from affecting his vision, giant cell arteritis a blockage of the arteries in the brain caused another health drama. Steroids to treat it weakened Strattons bones to the point where he twice had a fractured back. Once it was just a crack but very painful, he said. And the second time the bone was absolutely crushed and thats why Im on crutches. I had to really learn to walk again. After a month in hospital, Stratton went on medication to strengthen his bones and his sight did not diminish any further. Sydney Film Festival paid tribute to Stratton in a statement that said it would not exist as it does without his remarkable passion and devotion. It praised his successful fight against censorship of films in Australia, the establishment of the Travelling Film Festival (which returns to his home town of the Blue Mountains next weekend), support for emerging filmmakers from Australia and around the world, and fostering of a brave and adventurous cinema culture in Australian audiences. In 1973, I was a 19-year-old hoofer either busking the streets of London in top hat, tails and tap shoes or being the soda jerk at a Knightsbridge cafe, dressing like Ruby Keeler, keeping boredom at bay by tap dancing on tables to 1930s music. Jim Sharman, another Aussie, arrived at the cafe with actor Richard OBrien, whose unfinished rock musical based on Frankenstein, Jim had agreed to direct. Jim was explaining that the script needed two more servants as one was not enough for back-up vocals. On seeing me, he turned to Richard and said: Theres your servant. Nell Campbell (left) played Columbia in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It was my first professional role on the London stage in the tiny attic of The Royal Court Theatre, the Theatre Upstairs. A three-week rehearsal period to be followed by a three-week run for a play described by OBrien as a fun knees-up. The Rocky Horror Picture Show was the result of a symbiotic, creative, relationship between OBrien, Sharman, set designer Brian Thomson, musical director Richard Hartley, costume designer Sue Blane and, of course, actor Tim Curry. The following year, we all gathered in the freezing cold Bray Studios an hour outside London to begin filming The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Fox offered Jim a big budget and all-star cast, but Jim wanted to use the original stage cast, so Fox slashed the budget and gave him less than six weeks to shoot it. The one casting that they insisted on was that Brad and Janet be played by Americans. He flew to Los Angeles and cast Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick. The film opened to silence. Fox gave it a minimal distribution and it was shelved. But then a man in the publicity department at Foxs LA office decided to take it off the shelf and have a look. He thought it could work being shown at midnight screenings at the Waverly Theatre, New York City, and sent it over. Patricia Quinn (left), Nell Campbell and Tim Curry in The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Credit: Alamy Stock Photo The same audience came week after week and began dressing up as the characters. Then they started calling out to the screen the first one was when Janet puts a newspaper over her head to protect herself from the rain, that was the beginning of the callbacks. Soon after that, they began performing in costume in front of the screen and the shadow cast was born. We had no idea about this until we were invited to New York for a one-year celebration of The Rocky Horror Picture Show and there were fishnets galore lines of sequinned Columbias, Frank-N-Furters and the rest of the cast. It was fabulous. I think one of the reasons it has become a cult hit is because it is a joyous celebration of all things homosexual, bisexual, transsexual, heterosexual and cross-dressing. The script is witty, theres not a dud song in it, and it doesnt take itself seriously. The film has helped sexually liberate great swaths of conservative America. It took me some time to realise many of the fans were a combination of nerds who stayed in their rooms, unable to express themselves or people struggling with their sexuality. I find it so uplifting to be part of something that has and, 50 years later, continues to liberate so many. Days before the leaders of Russia and the US hold a summit meeting in Alaska, Moscows forces breached Ukrainian lines in a series of infiltrations in the countrys industrial heartland of Donetsk. This weeks advances amount to only a limited success for Russia, analysts say, because it still needs to consolidate its gains before achieving a true breakthrough. Still, it is a potentially dangerous moment for Ukraine. A Ukrainian National Guard serviceman runs through a tree line during training. Credit: AP Russian President Vladimir Putin would probably try to persuade US President Donald Trump to pressure Ukraine by arguing the 3-year-old war was going badly for Kyiv, said Mykola Bieleskov, a senior analyst at CBA Initiatives Centre. The key risk for Ukraine is that the Kremlin will try to turn certain local gains on the battlefield into strategic victories at the negotiating table, he said. President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday that Putin wanted Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30 per cent of the Donetsk region that Kyiv still controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the Ukrainian leader categorically rejected. After years of fighting, Russia still does not fully control all the Donetsk region, which it illegally annexed in 2022, along with the Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. AP An investigation by this masthead has unearthed hundreds of WhatsApp messages showing nurses subscribed to Fresh Clinics asking their peers to buy, borrow, or swap prescription-only anti-wrinkle medications, including Botox, Dysport and Xeomin. It was not an isolated exchange. Its also illegal. The post was shared to a WhatsApp group for nurses and clinics using the services of injectables company Fresh Clinics, and it triggered swift offers of help. One nurse in South Melbourne replied nine minutes later, offering to supply the drug that day. Very unethical, I know, she wrote. But I am open over the Christmas/New Year period and have been left with nothing as the past week we have been inundated. I thought I had enough stock. Please dont judge me. The owner of a Geelong skin clinic was frantically trying to buy anti-wrinkle drugs from her peers, an act prohibited under Australian medication laws. At 7.48am on Christmas Day in 2020, a desperate plea pinged in a WhatsApp group for nurses subscribing to Australias largest cosmetic injectables telehealth company. Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Does anyone have two vials of Botox I could buy off them? I have 3 days left in clinic before going away for 3 months and dont want to leave anything sitting in my fridge, said another in an April 2023 exchange. Replies arrived within minutes offers to help out from Melbourne suburbs Frankston, Williams Landing and Blackburn. Hey guys! Anyone have a spare vial (Dysport or Botox) I can grab asap? a Melbourne-based nurse wrote in December 2023. Im willing to travel anywhere in Melbourne. Ive already ordered but it didnt come on time for my patients tomorrow! Would appreciate it heaps. Requests were often met with near-instant offers, highlighting how quickly supply could be sourced through the informal networks. The WhatsApp messages used varied terminology buy, borrow, sell, grab but the effect was the same: restricted drugs changing hands outside formal supply channels, arranged via encrypted group chats. Under Australian law these Schedule 4 drugs can only be supplied by licensed wholesalers to authorised prescribers or pharmacists, to safeguard patient safety and control the movement of drugs. Fresh Clinics does not directly employ the nurses working in the injectables clinics. The clinics are independent businesses which pay a subscription to Fresh Clinics to access doctors and medicines. A NSW Health spokesman likewise said the medications could only be obtained by an authorised practitioner and could not be resupplied. Asked to respond to the messages, a Victorian Health Department spokeswoman said: The trading of Schedule 4 medicines between clinics is not lawful. As telehealth fuels the expansion of Australias booming $4 billion injectables industry, regulators are scrambling to roll out changes to protect patients. Other nurses offered to sell stock they no longer needed: I made an order in error would anyone like to buy some Botox? a nurse wrote in June 2023. I can grab some off you, another replied. Yes pls! added a third quickly. In one November 2023 exchange, a nurse asked: Hi team, does anyone stock [cosmetic filler] Sculptra? Can I buy one off you please? The co-owner of Fresh Clinics, John Holbrook, responds: You cant on-sell it. But we can assist to move it across clinics. Under the Fresh Clinics model, nurses, operating as independent businesses, consult with clients, then request a remote video review by a Fresh Clinics doctor, who issues a script. The nurse administers the treatment. These communications illustrate an unlawful black market for prescription-only cosmetic medicines, he said. The system loses integrity, meaning that any harmed patients will struggle to obtain a remedy. Dr Christopher Rudge, a lecturer in health practitioner law at the University of Sydney, reviewed the WhatsApp messages and said they illustrated unlawful trading and created an untraceable supply chain. Fresh Clinics ensures that all stock transfers between clinics comply with the latest federal and state regulations, a spokeswoman said. There is no suggestion Fresh Clinics has broken the law, and in a statement it said it had done nothing wrong. Fresh Clinics staff were aware of this. In March 2022 the companys clinical director replied to a nurse post: These cant be onsold onselling of a schedule medication is illegal. Federal law prohibits the unauthorised sale or transfer of Schedule 4 medicines. Prescription-only drugs must be distributed by licensed wholesalers to authorised practitioners, not traded peer to peer. In March this year, this masthead revealed that some Fresh Clinics doctor consultations lasted as little as 52 seconds before a script was approved. Following that investigation, new rules released in June by Australias health practitioner watchdog included tighter rules for first-time patients and restrictions on issuing high-speed telehealth scripts. The model was designed for flexibility. But many doctors who practise in-person medicine argue it removes critical points of clinical oversight. Fresh charges a per patient fee usually $25 and also leaves nurses to handle ordering, storage and administration of the medication. Co-founder John Delaney was more direct when fielding questions via a different WhatsApp forum in April this year: Wholesalers can only sell to a doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist. Yet elsewhere, other staff advised workarounds. In 2021, co-founder John Holbrook wrote to one nurse: Hi [name removed], its not legal for you guys to onsell medication. But [Fresh Clinics staffer] can help out seeing if theres somewhere that Dysport can be borrowed and replaced from. That borrow and replace system was sometimes formalised, other times not. In one message, the companys head of clinical training advised a nurse: Let us know who you end up getting product from and we will invoice you and send out replacement to the nurse who loans the product. The nurse responded: Thanks so much, for sure sell was probably the wrong word to use as I know you guys reimbursed the lender with product. Airtasker driver, Kmart Esky It was May 2021, and a senior Fresh Clinics manager was on the hunt for a new delivery driver. She proposed the company load a new job every day onto Airtasker with the anticipated jobs for the day. Then, she posted a job on Airtasker for a driver to deliver for an aesthetic supply company at $840 per week. Own vehicle necessary, the ad said. The job went to Shah, a part-time driver who also delivered auto spare parts. He told this masthead he didnt know what was in the boxes he would drop off to clinics, just that they were packed professionally. Some of them were very urgent, some werent, said Shah, who declined to give his surname. I just put extra ice inside the Esky. So I had to get the ice and I just put it in my car. A staff message to Shah from that time reads: Have you bought the Esky? Shah replied: Buying it now in Kmart Broadway. Approached about this and other issues raised in WhatsApp messages, the Therapeutic Goods Administration declined to comment, saying responsibility rested with states and the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. That agency, in turn, referred queries to state health authorities. Cosmetic physician Ronald Feiner, the medical dean of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine, said transporting botulinum toxin, commonly known by the brand name Botox, in an Esky put patient safety at risk. He said the substance must be stored at stable, cold temperatures usually between 2 to 8 degrees in order to be effective. Improper handling could compromise product quality and increase the risk of infection and tissue damage, Feiner said. It is way below standard and unacceptable, he said of the Esky transportation. I wouldnt accept products transported in that manner and I wouldnt inject it into my patients. It is completely substandard. Feiner is also a co-ordinator at the International Master Course on Ageing Science, which hosts the worlds leading cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery meeting and reviews cosmetic complications lodged by doctors from around the world. He said the group reviewed a complication linked to botulinum toxin around once a week, and always questioned whether the substance was stored and transported correctly. Improper storage may lead to product degradation, which can cause infections and tissue damage, he said. This damage can lead to depressions in the skin like little finger compressions. This GIF of US TV host Stephen Colbert was posted in a chat between Fresh Clinics workers. Credit: Marija Ercegovac In addition, he said botulinum toxin stored at incorrect temperatures might be ineffective or wear off more quickly. Other messages seen by this masthead showed Fresh Clinics staff sometimes also adopted a tone that minimised the seriousness of their work. In a 2021 thread, the companys head of training posted a meme of American TV host Stephen Colbert waving oversized syringes, alongside a text discussing Freshs $25 telehealth consults now possible via the companys app. Her caption: And we dont take any liability LOL. In another exchange in one of the WhatsApp groups, when a nurse asked if unmixed Botox left out of the fridge could still be used, co-founder Holbrook responded: Its good for use on yourself/family at a minimum. Fresh Clinics goes political As scrutiny of the injectables industry has intensified in recent years, Fresh Clinics has become more politically active. In May federal lobbying firm Barton Deakin registered as its lobbyist, followed in June by Hawker Britton. In July, PR agency Sling & Stone registered as its third Canberra lobbyist. Researcher Maddison Johnstone, from advocacy group Operation Redress, said the industry had undercut its own arguments about professionalism. It seems the industry has dabbled in the very thing it purports to be against when it suits their commercial interests. Patients deserve better they pay through the nose and trust licensed clinics are prioritising their safety. Researcher Maddison Johnstone. Credit: Paul Harris In response to detailed questions from this masthead, a Fresh Clinics spokeswoman said the companys well-connected network of nurses and doctors included a private WhatsApp community where we share industry insights, tips, trends and regulatory updates and requirements. She said nurses co-ordinating stock transfers with doctor oversight is consistent with long-standing medical practices, with some stock transfers co-ordinated via private messaging platforms. Fresh Clinics ensures that all stock transfers between clinics comply with the latest federal and state regulations. She said while some of the transfers appeared to be selling, swapping and trading, they were in fact not. While some members may use varying degrees of terminology, Fresh Clinics monitors this channel and corrects any misused language where possible. A NSW Health spokesman said that under the states Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act, cosmetic medicines like botulinum toxin can only be bought by an authorised practitioner, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner. Loading He stressed that these drugs cannot be resupplied to another clinic or authorised practitioner. The NSW regulator warned that anyone suspected of breaking these laws would be investigated. And, just as in Victoria, which said trading Schedule 4 medicines between clinics was not lawful, a Queensland Health Department spokeswoman said: swapping or borrowing Schedule 4 medicines amounts to buy and supply, which is not permitted in Queensland unless authorised. Dr Christopher Rudge, who also reviewed the messages, said the behaviour constituted professional misconduct that could lead to a tribunal revoking a practitioners registration. A system built for speed not scrutiny The hundreds of WhatsApp screenshots seen by this masthead show clinic owners and nurses often operating with a sense of urgency to maintain supply. Loading And while senior staff at Fresh Clinics can be seen intervening on some exchanges to remind nurses not to on-sell products, the messages are otherwise devoid of references to bodies like the TGA and state health laws, or consulting pharmacists. The Christmas Day message at the start of this story from the Geelong clinic owner, who this masthead attempted unsuccessfully to contact, still stands out: Very unethical, I know Please dont judge me. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. A 78-year-old man has recounted the terrifying night he was subjected to a bizarre home invasion in which two masked intruders stole nothing more than some cash and coins, but damaged his expensive speedway car in the process. Lester Doyle has spoken out about the ordeal which unfolded at midnight on June 24, in which he was politely held hostage with a machete and a tomahawk in his Forrestfield home. Lester Doyle was subjected to a terrifying home invasion in Forrestfield. Credit: 9News Perth He is trying to help police piece together who may have been responsible for the incident that left Doyle convinced he was going to die. I thought it was the end of the time for me, he said. Government board members and leaders of Commonwealth agencies flying between Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne will be forced to endure economy seats despite the government insisting public servants be permitted to sit in business class. The Albanese government quietly revealed this month that it had rejected a recommendation from the Finance Department that required bureaucrats to travel economy on flights of less than three hours, effectively allowing them to stay in business class. The Remuneration Tribunal has barred some bureaucrats from business-class upgrades for domestic flights. But the Remuneration Tribunal, an independent agency responsible for setting pay and perks rules for Commonwealth officials, including department heads, politicians and other senior bureaucrats, announced on Thursday that it was removing access to business-class travel for tier-two office holders. Tier-two office holders tend to be leaders of some government corporations and agencies, or those serving on government boards and councils. This includes leaders of the High-Speed Rail Authority Board, Housing Australia, Northern Territory Aboriginal Investment Corporation, Australian Renewable Energy Agency, Australian Research Council, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority. Advertisement Reviews & adviceHotel reviews If African safari is on your wish list, this lodge is worth every cent Julietta Jameson August 14, 2025 10:05am 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 The hotel andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp, Timbavati, South Africa Check in Main lodge pool. Advertisement If youve ever put African safari on your travel wish list, chances are youve imagined something akin to Ngala Tented Camp as you were doing it. The property really is a dream come true. Ngala Private Game Reserve is a 14,700-hectare concession owned by the World Wildlife Fund and leased to andBeyond. If those credentials dont say enough about the wildlife viewing opportunities it affords, then the fact it shares an unfenced boundary with South Africas Kruger National Park completes the story. Its here youll find Ngala Tented Camp, opened in 1999 on the banks of the Timbavati River near an elephant crossing. When the camp was flooded in 2024, andBeyond closed it and over six months, rebuilt, reoriented, reinforced, and renovated. The results are resplendent. The look Revamped and retro guest lounge. Johannesburg-based Fox Browne Creative (in collaboration with Jack Alexander Design Studio) was engaged to reimagine Ngala Tented Camp, a no-brainer considering its two principals used to work for the company. Their understanding of the andBeyond DNA is evident in decor that manages to fold into the background, letting the unique surroundings shine, while at the same time presenting points of interior design interest. Advertisement Throughout the property, warm terracotta and sandy tones feature, with locally sourced materials including bespoke embroidery, traditional fabrics, and stained-glass playing into a mid-century aesthetic that runs across the dining, bar and lounging areas, the spa, gym, pool deck, boutique and accommodation. The room Splash of bathroom colour. There are only nine tented suites in the adults-only camp. They each accommodate two people and are spaced well apart in the bush, affording privacy. There is also one super luxe family villa that sleeps six. The refurbishment saw the addition of stone-walled outdoor bathrooms featuring large tubs and a shower, which I delight in using after each game drive. Theres an indoor shower as well, and a double vanity behind the console bed, its stained-glass splashback a feature of the overall decor. Advertisement Ngala Safari Lodge Family Villa. With flourishes such as an included in-room bar furnished with full-sized bottles of spirits, a coffee machine and yummy snacks, its undeniably upscale. But I definitely get the feeling of being under canvas especially when the afternoon sun hits the westerly wall of my digs and warms them beyond the capabilities of the air- conditioning. Letting the outside in. Another renovation addition is an extended verandah I dont use it, but thrillingly, baboons do at night. Food + drink Advertisement Pull up a pew guest bar. Ngala Tented Camp is all-inclusive, from the coffee and snack that arrives in the butlers hatch, along with the pre-safari drive 5am wake-up door knock, to the post-evening-drive drinks and multi-course meals. There are special meals, drinks and snacks in surprising locations, such as a bush barbecue breakfast, poolside dinner and sundowners by a dam watching hippos emerge from their long days lolling. All of it is excellent. Out + about Why youre here on safari. In the end, this is what youre here for: two long game drives a day in an open-air, built-for-purpose Landcruiser. Ngala means lion in the local Shangaan language youll likely see plenty. And the beauty of safari in this conservancy is, you are only sharing it with your camp mates and guests of the nearby Ngala Safari Lodge. Advertisement Related Article Luxury holidays Experts name the most exciting (and surprising) things in luxury travel The verdict AndBeyond is renowned for its eco and conservation commitments, while providing top-tier luxury experiences. Thats all on display here, and then some. Its not inexpensive, but Ngala Tented Camp is one of those experiences of a lifetime thats worth forking out for. Essentials andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp; Beyond Ngala Private Game Reserve, Timbavati, South Africa; andbeyond.com. From $2060 (ZAR24,100) fully inclusive a person a night twin share. Transfers are not included in the price. Advertisement Our rating out of five Highlight From the drivers and trackers to the talented cake bakers and cocktail shakers, bed-makers and path-rakers, the staff members are friendly, funny, attentive and enthusiastic, and they play an enormous part in making the experience so immensely enjoyable. Lowlight Advertisement Ah, so close to five stars. But while those vanities may be lovely, they are also dark. There should be an illuminating magnifier mirror somewhere in the tent at least for the shavers, makeup-appliers and occasional pluckers. The writer travelled as a guest of andBeyond. Sign up for the Traveller newsletter The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now. The conventional model dictates that sanctions be imposed gradually, following stern warnings. This gives the Russian regime time to prepare for the impact: to subsidise domestic production of goods that will no longer be imported (Obama-era sanctions did wonders for Russian farmers and cheese makers), to prioritise new export markets as well as to find third-party countries through which to, say, export oil or import dual-use technology. It also bolsters ties between Russia and countries that are already under US sanctions such as Iran, which has become an essential partner in Russias drone warfare. And still, one presidential administration after another has touted sanctions as its main instrument in getting Putin to change his ways. Joe Biden imposed multiple rounds of sanctions, though none were devastating, as he had promised. Trump imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India, ostensibly as a penalty for importing Russian oil, and has promised more secondary tariffs for Russias other trade partners. Year after year, American presidents do the same thing, expecting different results. In this one way, Trump is no crazier than his predecessors. However difficult it is for foreign-policy theorists to grapple with the limitations of the economic pressure approach, for Trump it is all but impossible. Again and again, Trump has shown that he assumes everyone is motivated by money. He is not alone in this: Many Western analysts have repeatedly suggested that Putin would seek an off-ramp in Ukraine once the war proved costly for Russia and, perhaps more to the point, for him personally. As much as Putin loves wealth, he has shown that he loves power even more eternal power in his own country, which he wins by expanding Russias borders, and power in the world at large, which he wins by making other leaders fear him. Trump seems to be unaware that, by meeting with Putin, he is giving Putin exactly what the Russian leader wants a demonstration of his power. Trump is giving Putin additional gifts by agreeing to meet him without Zelensky and by sidelining the European Union. Trump is affirming for all of Russia to see what Putin has claimed all along: that the conflict is really between Russia and the United States. As much as Putin loves wealth, he has shown that he loves power even more. Credit: AP The moment Putin walks into the negotiating room, he has gotten everything he wants plus an opportunity to make a quip about Alaska as historically Russian land (consider this a prediction). If the meeting does not produce an agreement, Putin loses nothing. Trump, on the other hand, would lose face if he walked out empty-handed. He may be motivated to accept something, anything. The conditions for peace that Russia offered in June were merely a more elaborate display of the four things Putin has consistently demanded: land, including parts of Ukraine that Russia has not occupied; an end to Western military aid to Ukraine; guarantees that Ukraine will never be invited to join NATO; and a change of leadership in Ukraine. Trump can agree to those conditions, but Zelensky will never accept them. Putin has very little reason to change his demands. Still, if the Russian leader is inclined to help Trump look good a big if they may emerge with some kind of ceasefire agreement. This may be a time-limited ceasefire, contingent on Ukrainian withdrawal from parts of eastern Ukraine. Such a deal would force Ukraine to retreat from positions it considers strategically important while giving Russia a couple of months to regroup before attacking again, on the pretext that Ukraine didnt abide by Russian demands. Another possibility that has been floated is a ban on waging war deep inside enemy territory, or an air truce. Such an agreement would save lives in Kyiv and Odesa, which have come under Russian barrages day after day, but also in Russian cities, which Ukraine has grown increasingly capable of attacking with drones. For Ukraine, an air truce would come at tremendous strategic cost. It would continue to be a country at war. It would still be governed under a set of state-of-emergency provisions. Families would continue to be separated, with so many women and children having fled to western Europe while the men remained. Worst of all, people would continue dying at the front, in the villages and towns near the front line, and in Kharkiv, Ukraines second largest city, which is about 20 miles (32 kilometres) in. A scene from 2000 Metres to Andriivka, a documentary that follows a Ukrainian brigade trying to liberate a small village. Credit: Sydney Film Festival The ability to attack deep in Russian territory is Ukraines sole negotiating advantage. These days, Russian airports are frequently forced to suspend operations because of drone attacks. The mayor of Moscow reports on the number of drones intercepted by air defence in much the same way as the mayor of Kyiv does. This is not enough to destabilise Putins regime, but it is enough to make him nervous. If drone attacks deep inside Russian territory stopped, war what Russian propaganda still calls the special military operation may once again come to feel far away. The only thing that could force Putin to negotiate in earnest is the possibility of military defeat. Without that prospect, he is content to let the war continue forever. He doesnt care about losing wealth as much as Trump imagines he does, and he doesnt care about losing soldiers at all. In 2022, and again this May, the Kremlin noted that Peter the Greats war with Sweden, which began in 1700, lasted 21 years. This war, too, could go on for decades. One doesnt have to go back centuries to imagine what that would be like. The forever war is already here. A devastating new documentary, 2000 Meters to Andriivka, by Ukrainian director Mstyslav Chernov shows what it looks like. Loading The film follows a Ukrainian brigade trying to liberate a small village. It takes them months to cover the distance in the movies title, roughly the equivalent of just over a mile. The movie shows the gigantic horrors of war entire cities destroyed, swaths of farmland turned into minefields and what looks like miles of identical fresh graves and the smallness of it: handfuls of soldiers, armed with semiautomatic rifles, killing and being killed one person at a time, taking one prisoner at a time, fighting for one trench at a time, in terrifying minutes that stretch into hours. It is relentless like a nightmare. A platoon commander says that he dreams of the fighting, then wakes up to the fighting. And I thought, this war is a nightmare none of us can wake up from, the narrator says. As the soldiers on-screen drag themselves through mud and ruins, the voices of Western commentators and newscasters occasionally intrude, off-screen. Western confidence is likely to dip. If were not getting results here, then perhaps Ukraine wants to think about another plan, even some land concessions for peace. Western officials have expressed disappointment in a much-vaunted counteroffensive. Russia has millions more men from whom to draw. Theres no path to a military victory here, only more death. How sustainable is this level of support when theres really no end in sight to the war? Those are not, in the end, complicated questions. No, Ukraine cannot win this war as it is fought now. Yes, this war may drag on indefinitely, and yes, this means more death. But this was never and still is not the only possible outcome. The United States and NATO have always had the capacity to put an end to this war the only way it can be ended: by defeating Putin. They have consistently chosen not to do that, relying instead on old, failed policies. In this one way, Trump is more of the same. He just puts on a much bigger show. M. Gessen is an Opinion columnist for The New York Times. They won a George Polk award for opinion writing in 2024. They are the author of 11 books, including The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia, which won the National Book Award in 2017. Denver: A group of rabbits in Colorado with grotesque, horn-like growths may seem straight out of a low-budget horror film, but scientists say theres no reason to be spooked the furry creatures merely have a relatively common virus. The cottontail rabbits recently spotted in Fort Collins are infected with the mostly harmless Shope papillomavirus, which causes wart-like growths that protrude from their faces like metastasising horns. The dramatic growths dont harm rabbits unless they grow on their eyes or mouths and interfere with their eating. Credit: X Viral photos have inspired a number of unflattering nicknames, including Frankenstein bunnies, demon rabbits and zombie rabbits. But their affliction is nothing new, with the virus inspiring ancient folklore and fuelling scientific research nearly 100 years ago. 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. She said she was impressed by how easy the platform was to navigate and how responsive and supportive the team had been throughout the process, noting it showed what was possible when the right people worked together with focus and dedication. One of the most exciting urban regeneration opportunities Gurrowa Place is one of the most exciting urban regeneration opportunities in Melbourne, set to deliver high-quality and diverse new homes on the doorstep of the beloved Queen Victoria Market, said Adam Williams (pictured above right), executive director development at Lendlease. The results come as the Reserve Banks latest 25bp cash rate cut to 3.6% is expected to lift borrowing capacity and boost market confidence. Domain data also shows the housing upswing has spread to every capital, although 14 suburbs still have houses under $1 million and are recording price falls a reminder that markets move at different speeds. State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code THE family of Martha Nolan-OSlatarra, who was found dead on a docked boat in Montauk Yacht Club on Tuesday last week, have a lot of questions they want answered by local police, their attorney has said. Ms Nolan OSlatarras mother, Elma, and sister Jacqui, as well as several other family members, have travelled to the US to begin the repatriation process. It is understood they are seeking a second postmortem examination to establish a cause of death. The 33 year old grew up in Monacurra, Carlow and a past pupil of St Leos College, Carlow. Ms Nolan-OSlatarra was pronounced dead at the scene in the early hours of August 5th after emergency medical responders and East Hampton police arrived at the exclusive yacht club. Good Samaritans had attempted to resuscitate her unconscious body. Suffolk County Police said an autopsy did not show evidence of violence, and her final cause of death is pending further examination. It is understood a final postmortem examination report will take at least three months to prepare. Funeral arrangements are to be published later this week, her RIP.ie death notice indicated. While the Suffolk County Police Department had initially said homicide detectives were investigating the death, two days later they said there was no evidence to suggest foul play and ruled out that line of investigation. Arthur Aidala, a New York city-based criminal defence attorney who is representing the deceaseds family, said any discussion of Ms Nolan-OSlatarras cause of death is irresponsible, not accurate and just speculation. He told local reporters her family had a sit down with the Suffolk County homicide detectives, who were conducting a deep investigation into the matter. People are still being questioned, there are technological analyses that [are] still being done, he said. The family request respect for their privacy at this time and want to honour Marthas legacy, he added. Ms Nolan-OSlatarra (33) was an entrepreneur who established East x East, a luxury designer sunglasses and swimwear brand, after emigrating to the US in 2015. She earned a degree in commerce from University College Dublin and a masters in digital marketing from the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School. Ellen O'Donoghue Fine Gael's nominee for the presidential election, Mairead McGuinness, has pulled out of the presidential race. In a statement, she described the decision as "very difficult" and that it was taken on medical advice. The former EU Commissioner has led every opinion poll so far. She added that her decision to pull out was not taken lightly, and was made following a stay in hospital last week. "My priority now is my health. Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all," Ms McGuinness said. "I am taking this decision on medical advice and while it is extremely difficult, it is the right decision for me and my family. "I appreciate that this will come as a shock and disappointment to party members and colleagues in Fine Gael, but our political family is strong." She said she has spoken to Tanaiste and Fine Gael leader, Simon Harris, and thanked him for "his support and understanding". "My focus now is my health and my family, and I ask for privacy in the time ahead," Ms McGuinness's statement finished. In a statement released following Ms McGuinness's announcement, Mr Haris said that she "has made an incredible contribution to public life in Ireland and in Europe. "It was our clear view in Fine Gael and the view of many people across Ireland that Mairead would make an excellent President of Ireland," the Tanaiste's statement said, before adding that her "health will now not allow this". "This has come as an awful shock to us all. Mairead is a valued member of our Fine Gael family. It is absolutely essential that she now prioritises her health and I know I speak for everyone when I wish her all the very best on that journey." In the coming days Fine Gael is to "consider further" the presidential election, convening their Executive Council to do so, Mr Harris said. "But thats for the time ahead, not for today. Today I want to pay tribute to Mairead. I want to thank her for all she has done. I want to wish her and Tom and their family all the best at this time and she knows we are all sending her our very best." Mr Harris had previously said that Ms McGuinness, who was a former TV presenter and farming journalist before becoming an MEP and EU commissioner, possesses all the attributes to bring our nation together. Ms McGuinness was the first official nominee in the presidential race to replace Michael D Higgins this autumn, after he served the maximum, two seven-year terms as President of Ireland. Independent Galway TD Catherine Connolly, who is also running in the presidential election as an independent candidate, said that Ms McGuinness's decision to withdraw "has come as a shock to all of us". "Without a doubt this decision could not have been an easy one for her to make," Ms Connolly said. I would like to extend my best wishes to Mairead and her family at this time, and all the best for the future. Vivienne Clarke Former president Mary Robinson has questioned why Ireland and the European Union are giving preferential trade to Israel when the Israeli government "is committing famine and an unfolding genocide". Speaking on Newstalk radio on Thursday morning, Ms Robinson said she would urge Ireland to put heavy pressure to achieve the two-thirds majority necessary to suspend the current preferential trade agreement between the EU and Israel. Article 2 of the trade agreement was far more significant to Israel than any trade impacted under the proposed Occupied Territories Bill, she said. Ireland should be doing everything possible to get the two-thirds majority, that would be a lot more effective. Israel would feel the pain. At the moment Israel has total impunity and countries are just not taking the steps they could take. When asked what measures she would like to see implemented, Ms Robinson said she would like to see the measures agreed in New York recently that there should be no transfer of arms and weapons components to Israel. [Arms exports to Israel] must be suspended immediately. There must be targeted sanctions, and we want sanctions on prime minister Netanyahu and the whole of his security cabinet that talked about the invasion now of Gaza City. We want, above all else, the EU in particular, to suspend existing and future preferential trade agreements. So we urge a qualified majority of EU member states to invoke Article 2 of the EU-Israeli Association agreement, that's all about preferential trade. Why are we giving preferential to Israel when the Israeli government is committing famine and an unfolding genocide? Ms Robinson said that there was one person who could stop the genocide US president Trump. He could stop it very quickly, because he could say no more arms, you must first of all, not invade Gaza City and secondly, you must open all the border crossings. Of course we want the hostages released, and indeed the political prisoners held arbitrarily by Israel, the Palestinian prisoners, but the hostage must be released immediately as part of a peace deal that has to happen now, and we have to have all of the border crossings open. The food is all there. I was told by the UN and by the Egyptian Red Crescent, they are ready tomorrow. The foreign minister whom we had a meeting with on Sunday, a long meeting with, talked about the efforts they're making to have peace, to involve Hamas and Israel in a peace truce now to let the food in. They also, you know, affirmed they have all the stocks ready to move in, so we can stop this famine tomorrow. And I think president Trump has a huge responsibility, because he is increasingly seen to be very complicit in what's happening. Sign up to get our news digest delivered directly to your inbox twice a week. HBO Max and GKIDS are deepening their already strong relationship with a new agreement that will bring 20 animated and live-action features to the platform, including multiple North American streaming premieres and several upgraded 4K restorations. The streamer already holds the exclusive U.S. rights to Studio Ghiblis library through GKIDS, but this expanded pact greatly broadens its reach into Japanese animation beyond Ghiblis walls. The lineup spans cult favorites, modern hits, and long-unavailable gems from directors such as Makoto Shinkai, Mamoru Hosoda, Hideaki Anno, Satoshi Kon, Masaaki Yuasa, Naoko Yamada, and Mamoru Oshii. The first group of films will arrive on September 1, featuring several titles that have never before been streamed in North America. Premium subscribers will also have access to select titles in 4K for the first time. Available September 1: Children Who Chase Lost Voices (dir. Makoto Shinkai) Fireworks (dir. Akiyuki Shinbo, Noboyuki Takeuchi) Fortune Favors Lady Nikuko (dir. Ayumu Watanabe) North American Streaming Debut Ghost Cat Anzu (dir. Yoko Kuno, Nobuhiro Yamashita) North American Streaming Debut Lonely Castle in the Mirror (dir. Keiichi Hara) North American Streaming Debut Love & Pop (dir. Hideaki Anno) North American Streaming Debut The Place Promised in Our Early Days (dir. Makoto Shinkai) Your Name. (dir. Makoto Shinkai) 4K Streaming Debut A second wave will roll out through late 2025 and 2026, including long-requested cult classics, major award winners, and 4K restorations. Coming later in 2025 and 2026: Angels Egg (dir. Mamoru Oshii) North American Streaming Debut, 4K Streaming Debut Liz and the Blue Bird (dir. Naoko Yamada) Lu Over the Wall (dir. Masaaki Yuasa) Millennium Actress (dir. Satoshi Kon) Mind Game (dir. Masaaki Yuasa) Perfect Blue (dir. Satoshi Kon) 4K Streaming Debut Shin Godzilla (dir. Hideaki Anno, co-director Shinji Higuchi) 4K Streaming Debut Summer Wars (dir. Mamoru Hosoda) 4K Streaming Debut The Boy and the Beast (dir. Mamoru Hosoda) 4K Streaming Debut The Colors Within (dir. Naoko Yamada) North American Streaming Debut The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (dir. Mamoru Hosoda) 4K Streaming Debut Wolf Children (dir. Mamoru Hosoda) 4K Streaming Debut Specific premiere dates for the second wave will be announced later. HBO Maxs continued partnership with GKIDS indicates our commitment to bringing world-class Japanese animation and original films to our audiences, said Royce Battleman, EVP, Global Content Acquisitions at Warner Bros. Discovery. This deal, which introduces masterpieces and fan favorites to streaming for the very first time, allows us to continue delivering premium films to our subscribers and solidifies HBO Maxs position as a leading destination in the space. We are excited to continue the relationship with HBO Max and to bring this exciting package to US streaming audiences. HBO Maxs focus on award-winning, genre-defining essential programming is a perfect match for the type of outstanding filmmaking that GKIDS champions, said Dave Jesteadt, GKIDS President. The agreement was negotiated by Liz Bannan Atcheson, VP of Content Acquisition for HBO Max, and Eric Beckman, GKIDS Founder and CEO. Sign up to get our news digest delivered directly to your inbox twice a week. When Fixed screened in front of a packed house at Annecy earlier this summer, Genndy Tartakovsky knew he was rolling the dice, but that he was playing with house money. Few filmmakers seem quite as at home at the French festival. But this time, Tartakovsky wasnt there with Dexters Laboratory, Samurai Jack, Primal, or even Hotel Transylvania. This time, he was screening a 2D, R-rated, unapologetically raunchy hand-drawn comedy, the kind of project studios dont just hesitate to make, but almost never greenlight. And yet, the Annecy audience, heavy on animation students, professionals, and seasoned festival-goers, didnt just laugh. They exploded. I literally felt like I had the audience in my hands, Tartakovsky recently told Cartoon Brew. I was thinking: Youre going to be quiet here. Youre going to giggle here. Youre going to laugh here. Youre going to be in shock here. It felt like it all landed, and I did a good job. And I dont get that feeling a lot. So it was a very unique experience. Ahead of the films August 13 Netflix release, Tartakovsky spoke to us about staying stubborn, leaning into an R rating, and what hed do if he were getting into the industry today. Seventeen Years in the Making The film, a co-production with Sony Pictures Animation and New Line, follows Bull, a fast-talking mutt who learns hes being neutered in the morning and sets out on a last, wild night with his neighborhood crew to win the heart of show dog Honey. Its equal parts Lady and the Tramp and The Hangover, filtered through Tartakovskys signature eye for caricatured, hand-drawn animation. The project gestated for nearly two decades. Tartakovsky first conceived it as a tribute to the kind of humor he shared with a group of friends from high school. Theyll know exactly whos who, the director laughed, discussing his inspiration. Because it was based on my friends, I felt a responsibility to see it through, he added. Then, I wanted other people to see it come to life. Im very stubborn when it comes to some things and at this moment in my life, this was what I wanted to do. That said, it took the industry some time to catch up to exactly what it was that Tartakovsky wanted to do. A lot of the time, unfortunately, Im a bit ahead of the industry. Unicorn [Warriors Eternal] took 20 years to make. This took 17. The hardest thing is getting a green light on something original and unique. Going All-In on the R Rating For Tartakovsky, the decision to make Fixed a full-on rated R feature wasnt about shock for shocks sake, but about committing to the premise. My pure sensibility is probably softer, he admitted. But if youre doing R-rated, you need to push all the way. Still tastefully, I dont think theres anything distasteful here, but fully committed. I didnt want the criticism of Its R-rated, but only a little. This is hard R, in the best way. The familiar warmth of 2D design makes the first minutes disarming, giving off an Oliver and Company vibe. But the humor hits fast, and some viewers may take a moment to adjust. Once they settle in, theres a whole movie there, Tartakovsky said. Assembling a Dream Team of Animators Industry veterans will note that Fixeds animation team reads like a whos who of top-flight 2D talent. Tartakovsky had been keeping a personal list of animators for years, ready to pounce when the right project came along. We had a list of 12, got 10, he said. Some passed because of the subject matter, but those who came aboard brought more than I imagined. I expected TV-plus quality. What I got was legit, top-tier feature animation. Layouts were handled by Tartakovsky, Craig Kellman, Joe Moshier, Adam Polonian, and Stephen DeStefano, ensuring the design DNA stayed consistent. The animators could then pour their energy into performance and timing rather than wrestling with unclear boards. The results sparked a kind of friendly arms race. One animator would see anothers scene and want to top it, Tartakovsky said. Especially the younger ones the quality just kept climbing. Timing Is Everything Tartakovsky says that after a career built making animated series, his experience on Sonys family-friendly Hotel Transylvania film franchise, where he directed the first three features, sharpened his instincts for theatrical comedy, where test screenings can make or break a gag. In TV, you wonder if you should leave time for a laugh, but what if theyre not laughing? he said. In features, you sit with an audience, see what works, and adjust. I love the process of fixing a joke that didnt land, restaging it, retiming it, and then hearing the room roar. If He Had to Do It Over, And Whats Next For all its filth and frenzy, Fixed might also be a bellwether. Tartakovsky sees recent independent success stories as signs that creators now have more ways to break into the industry and keep their creative control. If I were 21 now, Id get a job to pay the bills and make my own content at night until something clicks, he said. Nothings guaranteed, but if youve got the drive, you can do it. If Fixed connects with audiences, Tartakovsky is open to more R-rated work, comedy or otherwise. I have an adult dramatic animated action piece Id love to do, he teased. If this opens the right doors, Im stepping through. But whether its generation-defining kids content (Dexters Laboratory) prehistoric brutality (Primal), cosmic fantasy (Unicorn: Warriors Eternal), or dogs on a debauched bender, one constant remains: The fun part is doing something different. Not sitting back. Pushing. Thats the only way forward. The RISE (Rehabilitation,Intervention,Support, and Empowerment) Juvenile Drug Court program proudly celebrated its second graduation ceremony this week, marking a significant milestone in the journey of recovery and growth for four young individuals. With this most recent group, the program has now seen a total of 11 graduates since its inception in December of 2023. This graduation represents not just a completion of the program, but a powerful symbol of perseverance, accountability,and hope. Family, community members, and local leaders gathered in support of the graduates, underscoring the importance of community involvement in youth rehabilitation and success. In attendance was County Commissioner Milan Blake, whose presence underscored the countys continued commitment to supporting alternative justice programs and youth rehabilitation. Organizers extended a heartfelt thank you to the community members and businesses who made this event even more special: Beverly Johnson and Hardees for providing dinner County Commissioner Scotty Gilbert and Town House Bakery for donating a celebratory cake Mayor Gary Davis and the county commission for funding the program The RISE program continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a model for how juvenile courts can offer accountability with compassion, helping young people turn challenges into opportunities for transformation. Dr. Chris Smith, director of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga School of Nursing, has been recognized with the Patriot Award from the U.S. Department of Defenses Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program.The Patriot Award honors individual supervisors who demonstrate exceptional support for National Guard and Reserve employees through measures such as flexible schedules, time off before and after deployments and a commitment to supporting military obligations beyond what the law requires.Dr.Smith, who also serves as chief health affairs officer for the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, was nominated for the award by Terry Ellisa first lieutenant in the Army National Guard and an assistant professor of practice in the UTC Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.A formal presentation took place Tuesday at the Challenger STEM Learning Center during the UTC College of Health, Education and Professional Studies annual back-to-school event for faculty and staff. Retired Army Lt. Col. Scott Hardin, the Chattanooga ESGR committee chair, was on hand to present a framed certificate honoring Dr. Smiths dedication to fostering a supportive workplace for service members.We help those who help us, Lt. Col. Hardin said. She helps him and he helps her. Thats what its all about. We equate ESGR to a three-legged stool. Youve got the service member, the family and the employer. If all those things work right, you get a great deployment, and you get a great worker because of the leadership skills the military builds.Dr. Smith expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying the award reflected the strength of the entire School of Nursing team.Its such an honor to be recognized by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Dr. Smith said. But what means even more to me is how the School of Nursing embraces our faculty and students who have a commitment to serving this nation.From our nursing majors in ROTC to the faculty members who have a record of military service and now are serving to educate our students, I am truly humbled to have been nominated by Lt. Terry Ellis as a patriotic employer.Dr. Valerie Rutledge, dean of the College of Health, Education and Professional Studies, praised Dr. Smith for creating a culture of care, collaboration and trust in the School of Nursing.She is always invested in whats going to be the best opportunity and the best setting for the people that work for her, Dr. Rutledge said. She takes the individual and says, How can we work with you not just to make our program better, but also to give you the opportunity to do the things that matter or that are a part of what youve obligated yourself to?Dr. Rutledge said Dr. Smiths actions set a tone for the department and helped foster what she called a very positive organizational health perspective.Lets help our colleagues be as successful as possible, Dr. Rutledge said. Lets make sure that when something comes up that they have obligated themselves to, we help by supporting whatever needs to be done. Thats absolutely the type of place where people want to work and the department they want to work in.Dr. Smith has served as director of the School of Nursing since 2014. She is also a UC Foundation Professor and the Universitys chief health affairs officer. She earned a masters degree from UTC in 1997 as part of the schools first family nurse practitioner cohort. In April, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, D-NM declared a state of emergency and authorized the National Guard to support the Albuquerque Police in response to an ongoing public safety challenge (Los Alamos Reporter 4/8/25). The ACLU blew smoke about militarization of civil law and violations of rights (Source NM 4/9/25), but then no lawsuits, injunctions, marches or riots. According to MPDC, crime is down (BBC 8/11/25). Maybe it is from all time highs during COVID. To Democrats dismay, reporters see the ridiculous nature of those explanations. Chris Matthews on MSNBC said you cant keep saying crime is down, but the murder rate is up (8/13/25). To the average person that makes no sense. With little fanfare on July 18, a DC police commander was suspended, accused of changing statistics (NBC4 7/18/25).Carjackings actually were up in DC 547 percent between 2018 and 2023. In 2024, the homicide rate was the fourth highest in the nation and the number of juveniles arrested has gone up every year since 2020 (WH.gov 8/11/25). Even MSNBCs Joe Scarborough admitted theres no sense of security there (8/12/25).The capitol should be one of the safest places in the nation, yet we see Democrats fight Trump over his efforts to quell the violence (5News Chicago 8/11/25). They view criminals as victims of an oppressive society. They also fear if it works and crime goes down substantially, residents in other high crime cities run by Democrats, will ask why it isnt happening for them. Some Democrats are actually rooting for it not to work, which would keep crime high in DC-not a good look for a party at all time lows in the polls.Governor Wes Moore, D-MD said, Our National Guards are not trained for this, we know their missions, and municipal policing is not one of them (TampaFreePress 8/13/25). It was okay when a Democrat used the Guard, but now they howl about an authoritarian crackdown when Trump uses them in our nations Capitol. Trump made a campaign promise to get crime and criminals under control, and he wants to fulfill his promise. Democrats fear that he will succeed.Ralph Miller * * * It was refreshing to read Mr. Ralph Miller's comments. Who could possibly object to making our streets safer for our citizenry, especially in our nation's capital? The objections and hysteria from 'certain' media outlets, and 'certain' politicians are just asinine. And the claims "crime is down," is just not honest, is untrue gaslighting, insulting to every intelligent American, and should be to every intelligent human being on Earth. Cut the crap people, crime is real and out of control. I am thankful that we finally have a President who is courageous enough to address the real issues head-on without fear of losing votes. You have started something amazing, President Trump. Please finish it. And thank you Mr. Miller for stating the obvious. Chuck McDonald Just past scenic Hood River, the hills become much more treeless, but the scenic Columbia River is still there to admire. Around Pasco in the state of Washington, we happened upon a country mercantile that must have been the impetus for the Buckys chain. There does not appear to be any beef jerky, but It offers much else to the famished traveler, including long lines of enticing chocolates. This is the country where two of the West's most famed rivers - the Snake and the Columbia - come together, though we did not visit the exact spot. Lewis and Clark followed the Snake, then found themselves in a much larger stream when it poured into the Columbia. Much the largest of the cities on this leg of the trip was Spokane, which had actually hosted a World's Fair in 1974. Min called it SpoCANE, but Mert politely advised the locals termed it SpoCAN. Afterward, Mert waxed back and forth between the two. To a visitor, it's true, it's hard not to revert to SpoCANE as that is exactly what it looks like. We visited the centerpiece of downtown - the surging Spokane River that roars over several wide and deep waterfalls. An intriguing, wide-ranging park that includes some of the old fairgrounds, has been built around the falls. There is a gondola near the falls that must provide a dramatic view, but it was too high for me (over 10 feet). The trees picked back up dramatically at the curiously named Couer d'Alene - beautiful conifers rising from the valley to the hilltops in a place that must get more moisture. There were several exits for Couer d'Alene, and Min said "Hollywood types" were buying up spreads here for their rural retreats. Our calendars had been marked this evening for a "Farmhouse Stay," but we have long been cognizant that an Airbnb can display 48 pictures and lengthy description, but be deceiving. Mert cares nothing for farms, but Min loves goats, especially baby ones, and was looking forward to petting them. I had thoughts myself of being the one chosen to go out and gather the eggs. The pigs would have been fun. But as we arrived at little Kellogg, Idaho, we noted our WAZE lady was directing us to an in-town neighborhood of small, modest homes. Ours was wedged in tightly between two other small and modest homes and it was squared off and locked at the front. Inside we found the only possible kinship it might have to a farm was some wide interior wall boards. If there had ever been an inviting country front porch, it was now enveloped in the off limits garage. There was a hot tub and a sauna out back behind a new tall wooden fence, but we are mainly past that age. On toward Yellowstone with a stopover at Livingston, Montana. The emergency shelter at the Chris L. Ramsey Sr. Community Center has officially closed as of today, with all 27 evacuees successfully relocated to more stable housing environments. The American Red Cross provided critical assistance to all individuals.The Community Center will resume limited services today at 3 p.m. This initial phase of reopening will focus on providing a safe after-school space for local students while cleanup and restoration efforts continue. Full operations are expected to resume Friday.The Department of Community Development remains prepared to offer limited support if needed.Citizens requiring assistance are encouraged to contact the American Red Cross directly. In the event the Red Cross determines a need for emergency housing, a portion of the Francis B. Wyatt Community Center at 406 Colville St. has been offered as a temporary shelter. The Red Cross will determine if and when this or other available sites are activated. For more information from the Red Cross, call 1-800-REDCROSS. The 14th edition of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communions Conference for Chancellors, Registrars, and Legal Officers took place from August 4th to August 7th, 2025. | Photo Credit: Facebook/ Church of Nigeria- Anglican Communion The Anglican Church of Nigeria has severed diplomatic relations with the Church in Wales following the election of an openly lesbian archbishop. The Nigerian primate announced this decision during a meeting of church legal officers in Abuja. The Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, leading the Church of Nigeria, addressed delegates at the 14th Conference of Chancellors, Registrars, and Legal Officers, stating that his province rejected the election of the Right Rev. Cherry Vann as the Archbishop of Wales. Vann, who has been bishop of Monmouth for five years, was elected as the 15th archbishop of Wales after two days of voting by an electoral college of clergy and lay members at St. Pierre church near Chepstow. She is notably the first woman and the first lesbian to hold this position. Her biography on the Church in Wales website mentions that she lives with her civil partner, Wendy, and their two dogs. According to Anglican Ink, he described the election as an abomination and a significant departure from biblical teaching. In his keynote address, Ndukuba compared the situation to the 2003 consecration of Gene Robinson in the Episcopal Church in the United States, which also resulted in the Nigerian Church ending its ties with that province. He stated that just as the Church of Nigeria had acted then, it would now end all ties with the Church in Wales. The Church of Nigeria has long opposed same-sex marriage and civil partnerships, which have been legal in England and Wales since 2013, although the Church of England maintains that marriage is between a man and a woman. He also pointed out that in 2021, the Church in Wales voted to allow blessings of same-sex unions, and that other denominations such as the Scottish Episcopal Church and the Presbyterian Church of Scotland already permit same-sex marriage ceremonies. Ndukuba criticized what he called the growing influence of revisionist teachings in parts of the Western Church, asserting that those advancing these positions had not stepped back from their agenda but had instead intensified it, and he rejected their ideas. The Nigerian Church reaffirmed its support for like-minded Anglicans in Wales, stating it would stand with them through platforms such as the Global Anglican Future Conference, known as GAFCON. Photo Credit: Unsplash/ National Cancer Institute A full circuit court has affirmed Arkansass law that bans medical professionals from performing body-altering gender transition procedures on minors. The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit delivered the ruling on Tuesday, upholding the Save Adolescents From Experimentation Act, or Act 626. The court reversed a prior lower court decision and remanded the case for further proceedings. Circuit Judge Duane Benton, a George W. Bush appointee, authored the majority opinion, stating that the Act does not discriminate on the basis of sex and that it regulates a class of procedures, not people. He further justified the law by writing, The Act is rationally related to the states legitimate interest in protecting the well-being of minors, and that it does not violate this Nations historical concept of ordered liberty for the people of Arkansas, through their legislature, to prohibit physicians from providing gender transition procedures for minors. In a separate opinion, Circuit Judge Jane Kelly, a Barack Obama appointee, concurred in part and dissented in part. She was joined in her dissent by Circuit Judge James Loken, a George H.W. Bush appointee. Kelly argued that there was a startling lack of evidence connecting Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care with its purported goal of protecting children. The law was sponsored by State Rep. Robin Lundstrum, R-District 87. Lundstrum expressed her support saying, I am so grateful for the members of the Arkansas Legislature who stood up for children and families. No child can possibly consent to chemical or surgical castration under the age of 18, or possibly understand the long-term and serious health implications that accompany these experimental procedures. Arkansas lawmakers passed the SAFE Act in April 2021, overriding then-Gov. Asa Hutchinsons veto. The legislation made Arkansas the first state to ban the use of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries that mutilate sex organs in gender dysphoric youth. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) filed a lawsuit against the law in May 2021 on behalf of multiple minors and their families. A lower court initially blocked the law, citing the ongoing litigation. However, over a dozen state attorneys general filed an amicus brief in defense of Arkansass law. In August 2022, a three-judge panel of the Eighth Circuit ruled unanimously to uphold the lower court's decision, with Kelly noting in her court opinion that the plaintiffs will suffer irreparable harm if they are not granted a preliminary injunction. Home News Christians, religious minorities decry Pakistan's rampant discrimination at national march LAHORE, Pakistan A human rights advocate is calling on Pakistan's Parliament to address the alarming increase in false blasphemy allegations against Christians and other religious minorities. While most rallies and seminars for the annual National Minorities Day took place on Sunday to ensure greater participation, Samson Salamat, chairman of the rights group Rwadari Tehreek (Movement for Equality), told a forum at the Lahore Press Club that the parliament should hold a Grand Dialogue to discuss the spike in false allegations of blasphemy leading to mob violence. We demand the government [convene] a judicial inquiry commission to investigate the blasphemy business group and similar gangs entrapping innocent people in blasphemy cases, Salamat said, and to reveal the truth behind all the incidents of violence on Christians from the burning of Shantinagar in 1997 to Jaranwala tragedy in August 2023 and mob lynching of Nazeer Masih Gill in Sargodha in May 2024. Participants demanded the government ensure the protection of religious minorities; take punitive action against Muslim extremist groups involved in hate mongering and instigation of violence against vulnerable religious communities; and take practical steps to eradicate biases and hate material in school curriculum. Rwadari Tehreek organized the forum to express solidarity with victims and survivors of religious discrimination and persecution and to draw the governments attention to issues facing minority communities. In the southern port city of Karachi, Christian rights advocate Luke Victor told a rally that Pakistan has been officially observing Aug. 11 as National Minorities Day since 2009, yet minority communities still face discrimination, denial of basic facilities and forced religious conversions. Even after 78 years of independence, we dont feel free because our young daughters are forcefully converted and married off, because our children dont get equal chances and because we are looked down upon, Victor said. We want freedom from discrimination and freedom from being called Chuhra or Bhangi [pejorative terms used for Christians]. We are all equal citizens of this country. The National Minorities Day is observed to honor Pakistans religious minorities who have contributed to creating Pakistan and in nation-building. It commemorates the speech of Pakistans founding father Muhammad Ali Jinnah to the Legislature on Aug. 11, 1947, days before Pakistan separated from India, in which he pledged to protect the rights of non-Muslims in the newly created country. The government declared Aug. 11 as National Minorities Day in 2009. In Karachi, a large number of people belonging to various minority groups participated in a Minorities Rights March on Sunday. They demanded a minimum 10% quota for minority students in all educational institutions, removal of discriminatory content from textbooks, constitutional recognition of minorities distinct identity, protection of places of worship and properties, criminalization of forced conversions, amendments to personal laws and revision of Articles 41 and 91 of the Constitution to allow minorities to run for the offices of president and prime minister. They also sought greater political representation at the federal, provincial and district levels, measures for economic empowerment, protection against misuse of religious laws and inclusion of minorities in policymaking. Safina Gill spoke about job discrimination and the quota system. She said that menial jobs such as those of sanitation workers are reserved for non-Muslims. Even educated non-Muslims are offered sanitation worker jobs through newspaper advertisements, she said. In 2009, the late federal Minister for Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti, introduced a 5% job quota for minorities, which gradually dropped, Gill said. The terms and conditions to meet job criteria are made extra tough for non-Muslims even if they are eligible, she said. We need new policies to address such issues. At the Lahore Press Club forum, Katherine Sapna of the legal group Christians True Spirit called for comprehensive and effective legislation to criminalize forced faith conversions of girls and boys belonging to Christian and Hindu communities. Christian socio-political activist Rafaqat Sahotra demanded that the procedure to fill seats for minorities in parliament should be reformed. The government, political parties and other stakeholders should work on a scheme that involves the minority voters to elect their representatives in the national and provincial assemblies, Sahotra said at the Lahore forum. The current system of proportional representation practically takes away the democratic powers and rights from the voters to elect their minority parliamentarians and instead empowers the political parties and political elite without following any fair process, procedure or merit. The Minorities Alliance Pakistan (MAP) seminar held in the federal capital of Islamabad on Aug. 11 also focused on the need for effective representation of minorities in provincial and national legislative assemblies. We demand amendments to Articles 36, 40, 51, 91, 106 and 203 of the Constitution so that the Pakistani minorities population of over 10 million can be freed from the constitutional discriminatory treatment and from restrictions on holding constitutional offices, and can live as equal and equivalent citizens in the country, said MAP Chairman Akmal Bhatti. Bhatti said he regretted that major political parties and their leaders had failed to fulfill the trust placed in them by their voters and have done nothing in practice to give minorities equal constitutional status. Demanding an increase in the number of seats for minorities in the national and provincial assemblies according to the latest population census, the MAP chairman said that proportional representation of non-Muslims for reserved seats should also be changed to strengthen the democratic system. In statements marking National Minorities Day, Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to protecting the rights of minorities while acknowledging their contributions to the country. This day reflects Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnahs vision of a Pakistan where every citizen lives in equality, harmony and mutual respect, Zardari said. He said that Pakistan stands resolutely against all forms of discrimination, extremism and religious intolerance. We remain determined to build a society free from prejudice one that embraces diversity as a strength and is anchored in mutual respect, interfaith harmony and shared progress, Zardari added. Prime Minister Sharif also reaffirmed the governments commitment to the full inclusion of minorities in government institutions, parliament and the national mainstream. The welfare and well-being of all minorities in Pakistan, be they Sikhs, Christians, Hindus (or) Parsis, is one of the priority duties of the government of Pakistan, he said. He emphasized the services rendered by minorities in every walk of life, including those who had sacrificed their lives defending Pakistan. We pay tribute to them from the bottom of our hearts, he said. Pakistan is proud of its minorities patriotism, professional hard work and attachment to national heritage and culture. The prime minister also stressed that protecting minority rights, aside from a constitutional obligation, was also a religious duty, saying, Islam specifically advocates [for] the protection of civil, religious and social rights of minorities. Scholars and religious leaders play a key role in protecting religious freedom. He called on all Pakistanis to practice unity and solidarity, mutual respect and tolerance. Pakistan is ranked No. 8 on Open Doors World Watch List for being among the top persecutors of Christians. This article was originally published at Christian Daily InternationalMorning Star News Home News MS-13 gang member in prison for double murder sues Trump, demands transfer to women's prison An MS-13 gang member serving time in prison for murdering two teenagers is suing President Donald Trump and the Bureau of Prisons, alleging discrimination on the basis of gender identity and demanding that the federal government recognize him as a woman. Oscar Contreras Aguilar, who changed his name to Fendi G. Skyy in 2024 when he began claiming he identified as a woman, has been incarcerated since 2017 and is serving a 21-year prison sentence at the Coleman Correctional facility in Coleman, Florida. Last month, Aguilar filed a lawsuit alleging that the Bureau of Prisons and Trump have refused to recognize his self-declared gender identity. Aguilar claimed in the filing that men who identify as women are often subjected to harsher, more degrading treatment" than other men in prison. In response to an inquiry from The Christian Post, the Bureau of Prisons said it doesn't comment on pending litigation or matters that are the subject of legal proceedings. Aguilar was sentenced to prison for the 2016 murders of 17-year-old Edvin Mendez and 14-year-old Sergio Arita Triminio. Along with several other MS-13 gang members, Aguilar lured Mendez to a park and murdered him because they thought the boy was part of a rival gang. The gang then lured Triminio to the same park and murdered him, too, because they thought he was cooperating with law enforcement. Prior to identifying as a female, Aguilar filed several complaints alleging that incarcerated MS-13 gang members and men affiliated with other gangs had attempted to kill him, according to Reduxx magazine. The inmate claimed that these other gang members wanted to kill him because he once worked as an informant for the FBI. In a 2022 civil action complaint against former U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, Aguilar claimed that his prison sentence was a plea agreement because he had worked with law enforcement in 2016 and 2017, Reduxx reported. While in the community, [Contreras Aguilar] was working with the Suffolk County Police Department and the Long Island Gang Task Force of the FBI in New York as an informant, the complaint obtained by the outlet states. The gang member started identifying as female months after the complaint against the former attorney general was dismissed in 2024. MS-13, the international criminal gang that Aguilar was part of, is renowned for its brutality. As the U.S. Department of Justice warns, MS-13 is "well-organized and is heavily involved in lucrative illegal enterprises, being notorious for its use of violence to achieve its objectives." Aguilars lawsuit isn't the first time the topic of male inmates identifying as the opposite sex has come up in the news cycle. In December 2024, the American Civil Liberties Union of Washington filed a Personal Restraint Petition on behalf of 36-year-old Bryan Kim, who goes by the name Amber FayeFox Kim. The trans-identifying inmate who murdered his parents in 2006 wanted to resume serving his sentence at a women's prison. The Washington Department of Corrections transferred Kim out of the Washington Correctional Center for Women in June 2024 after a prison guard caught him having sexual intercourse with his 25-year-old cellmate. The ACLU argued in its filing that the DOC unconstitutionally transferred Kim to a mens prison. In 2008, Kim was found guilty of two counts of aggravated first-degree murder in the stabbing of his father and the bludgeoning of his mother, according to The Spokesman-Review. The prosecution argued that the then-teenage Kim killed his parents in December 2006 because he was angry that they had charged him $1,000 for rent and set a deadline for him to move out of the house. Advocates for incarcerated women, such as Amie Ichikawa, a former inmate and the founder of the group Woman II Woman, have spoken out against allowing male inmates who identify as female to serve their sentences at womens prisons. Ichikawa has repeatedly shared her story of how she was locked up with men after California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 132 in 2020, which permitted inmates who identify as the opposite sex to transfer to a prison aligned with their "gender identity." In a bonus episode of CPs 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 well-being, your mental health, nothing. And there's really no one you can talk to about it," she said. Home News Trafficking survivor fights requirement to disclose identity in lawsuit against Nevada brothels A "Jane Doe" sold for sex in Nevada brothels, where she was allegedly withheld necessary medications and forced into debt, is fighting to remain anonymous after a judge ruled she must disclose her identity to the public if she wants to pursue charges against her abusers and state officials accused of providing legal cover for abuse. The anonymous plaintiff is represented by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, a national nonprofit that advocates against all forms of sexual abuse through legal and legislative action. On Friday, NCOSE filed its opening arguments to the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a bid to reverse an earlier ruling that Jane Doe must disclose her identity to the public and denied the survivor a protective order, despite the plaintiff's concerns about the physical dangers she could face from her traffickers. "We are fighting back against an unjust ruling denying Jane Doe's right to proceed using a pseudonym and her right to a protective order. The judge had ruled that she must disclose her identity to the public," Christen Price, senior legal counsel at NCOSE, said in a statement provided to The Christian Post. "If she were to do so, Doe's very life would be threatened. This ruling has extensive ramifications for other sex trafficking survivors who seek justice against their abusers," the attorney asserted. "No one should have to choose between their personal safety or pursuing claims against their abusers." In October 2024, the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada allowed Jane Doe's case against the brothel defendants to proceed, but "denied the motion for a protective order and leave to proceed pseudonymously." The court then ordered the victim to file a notice disclosing her identity within 15 days of the order, or her claims would be "dismissed without prejudice." While the plaintiff filed a motion for reconsideration in November 2024, the district court denied it in early April, ordering the plaintiff once again to disclose her identity. On April 25, the district court ordered the case "dismissed without prejudice" and entered a final judgment on April 28. Jane Doe then filed her notice of appeal on May 28, 2025. "Sex trafficking survivors are commonly granted pseudonymity when seeking justice against their abusers. The defendants already have a right to learn Doe's name later on in the case, which we are not disputing," Price told CP. "What the defendants want is her name now and publicly so that they can shame her in the media they even admitted this in their own filings. But survivors should not be tried in a court of public opinion. We are seeking a reversal of the court's previous opinion so that Doe can safely pursue justice," the lawyer added. While prostitution is legal in Nevada, Jane Doe maintains that, between 2017 and 2023, her abusers forced her to engage in commercial sex acts by restricting her movements and other forms of coercion, according to a lawsuit filed last February. Four brothels are named in the lawsuit, including Mustang Ranch, which is owned by Lance Gilman, who previously served as Storey County Commissioner. Other brothels mentioned in the suit are the Chicken Ranch, Bella's Hacienda Ranch and Desert Rose. In addition to pursuing legal action against the brothels, Jane Doe also sued Nevada state and county officials, with the suit arguing that Nevada's policies allowed the abusive brothels to operate right out in the open. Nevada is the only U.S. state where prostitution is not illegal, and the lawsuit accuses government officials of providing legal cover for sex trafficking. The lawsuit asserts that Jane Doe's experiences at the brothels constituted a violation of the 13th Amendment, which bans slavery and involuntary servitude. In addition, the suit argues that the defendants violated the Trafficking Victims Protection Act. Several of the brothels were surrounded by high, barbed wire fences or locked gates, according to the lawsuit. The plaintiff alleges that she and the other women at these brothels were not allowed to leave without permission, not even to step outside into the locked yard. The staff at the brothels allegedly forced the victim to open her mail and medications in front of them. During her time at Chicken Ranch, the owners reportedly withheld Jane Doe's medication from her, and if she received any jewelry, then the staff forced her to sell it and claimed half the proceeds. Taking money from the plaintiff and other women was a common practice at many of these brothels, according to the survivor. The brothel staff would typically take 50% of the money Jane Doe and the other women received from sex buyers, and they would also fine the women for minor offenses, such as using too many towels. As a result, many women in these brothels fell into debt, making it easier for the brothel staff to coerce and control them. The living and working conditions at many of the brothels left much to be desired, according to the suit. Women were forced to wear heels, even if injured, and they were required to work 24-hour shifts. During these 24-hour shifts, the women at the brothels could not take a nap or use the restroom without permission. Due to the quality of the food at many of the brothel locations, Jane Doe was even hospitalized at one point. The victim escaped by calling an Uber, which took her to a hotel that allowed the survivor to stay for free. Managers of two brothels named in the suit contested the lawsuit's claims in an interview with the Reno Gazette-Journal last year. Tara Adkins, the acting madam at Mustang Ranch, said in a statement to the newspaper that the brothel will fight the lawsuit "vigorously." Bella Cummins told the newspaper that the lawsuit's claims don't involve her brothel, Bella's Hacienda Ranch, where she has worked for decades. She also claimed that "ladies choose this career," calling brothels a "humanitarian idea." Home Opinion How the prosperity gospel has driven Nigerian Christians away from Christ History has it that in the 15th century Christianity got into sub-Saharan Africa with the arrival of the Portuguese. In 1842, Samuel Ajayi Crowther suffered so much to bring the Gospel to the western part of Nigeria. In 1857, Reverend Christopher Taylor, an Igbo slave, left Sierra Leone to plant the first church in the eastern part of Nigeria. Christianity experienced significant growth in Nigeria starting in the 19th century, especially in the southern part of Nigeria. More European missionaries who were sent to Nigeria were responsible for the expansion of Christianity. These missionaries established various denominations, including Catholic, Protestant, and Pentecostal. In the early days of Christianity in Nigeria, the Gospel was proclaimed freely. Missionaries sacrificially moved through villages and towns to make people know of Christ and His liberating Gospel message. Hospitals and schools were built, and natives accessed services free of charge. The message of the missionaries and indigenous pastors at that time was nothing but Christ and His love. It was never a product to be purchased or sold it was a gift of grace offered to everyone. However, in the 20th century, prosperity gospel theology was imported into Nigeria from the United States, and the message of the church changed, especially in Pentecostal churches. Another brand of Christianity replaced the Christianity that was brought into Nigeria by the missionaries. The message shifted. It was no longer about the biblical Gospel but about get-rich-quick schemes. It was no longer about Gospel ministry but about building a business. What was once a message of deliverance from death and sin morphed into a message about personal aggrandizement and financial success. As a result, there has been a mass exodus of Nigerian youths out of the Church and back into the African traditional religion. This migration is becoming very pronounced these days, especially in the southeastern part of Nigeria. Many of these youths are complaining about failed promises of financial breakthrough, hypocrisy, greed, financial exploitation, and the wide gap between the rich and the poor in the Nigerian church. Since the prophecies of financial breakthrough given to them by their pastors did not come to pass, many of them have simply left Christianity, believing they can make money by appealing to their ancient gods. If this whole thing is merely about money, and the prosperity gospel message doesnt deliver, why choose to remain in the Church? When the gospel becomes transactional and is packaged as a commercial product, Christ is obscured, and His cross becomes empty. Those who are peddling a commercial gospel should not forget that the same Jesus who cleansed the temple is still in charge of His church today. Many churches all over the world are guilty of the same exact thing. The global Church must rise above the temptation of monetary gain and focus on the only message that matters: Christ and Him crucified. Without it, we are merely wasting our lives. Home News Anti-Israel activists vandalize home of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation director, leave death threats Anti-Israel activists painted death threat graffiti reading Death to the GHF outside the Virginia home of Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) acting director, John Acree. They also damaged the wheels and rearview mirrors of his car, with anti-Israel groups later posting a video of the vandalism on social media. 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, the radical group Eye on Palestine wrote in a post on the social media platform X. Another anti-Israel organization, WearThePeace, backed the threatening vandalism outside Acrees residence over what they claimed was his complicity in genocide as thousands have been killed and injured at the aid death traps. The vandalism in Virginia took place during Acrees visit to Israel. The Radical Bloc, an Israeli left-wing organization headquartered in Jaffa, organized a demonstration against Acree and the GHF outside the Tel Aviv hotel where the top GHF official was staying. Echoing the sentiments of other radicalized groups worldwide, Radical Bloc accused Acree and the GHF of being complicit in Israels alleged genocide in Gaza. 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, the organization wrote on X. The American-managed and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation began distributing humanitarian aid in Gaza in May. The organization was established after a large majority of United Nations aid trucks in Gaza had previously been looted by Hamas members and criminal gangs before reaching civilians. Hamas has been accused of financing its war against Israel by selling stolen aid on the black market at exorbitant prices that most Gazans cannot afford. The purpose of the GHF mechanism is to bypass Hamas and provide efficient and free deliveries of food, water and other essential supplies directly to the Gazan population. The Hamas terror group has repeatedly threatened the GHF and sought to disrupt its aid distribution. Several Gazan civilians have testified that Hamas gunmen killed local residents at GHF aid sites, yet much of the international community has continued to place primary blame on Israel for the incidents. In June, the GHF reported that Hamas terrorists attacked a bus in Gaza, killing five local Palestinians who were part of the humanitarian organizations staff. Tonight, at approximately 10 p.m., Gaza time, a bus carrying more than two-dozen members of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation team, local Palestinians working side-by-side with the U.S. GHF team to deliver critical aid, were brutally attacked by Hamas. At the time of the attack, our team was en route to one of our distribution centers in the area west of Khan Younis, GHF Executive Chairman Rev. Johnnie Moore wrote on X. The GHF has urged the United Nations to work together (with them) to address the food insecurity in Gaza, saying the U.N. appears to focus on Israels role in the crisis rather than on improving aid distribution in the territory. This article was originally published by All Israel News. Home News California moms continue legal fight against state law removing religious exemptions for school vaccinations Four California mothers have escalated their challenge against a 2016 law that eliminates religious exemptions for school vaccinations, arguing the law violates their First Amendment rights. Backed by attorneys with Advocates for Faith & Freedom, Sara Royce, Sarah Clark, Tiffany Brown and Kristi Caraway filed an appeal on Aug. 8 with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, after a U.S. District Court dismissed their claims in 2023, which the mothers assert was based on an incorrect legal standard. The plaintiffs contend that SB 277 unfairly targets their religious beliefs while permitting numerous secular exemptions, forcing them to choose between their faith and their childrens access to education. SB 277, signed into law by then-Gov. Jerry Brown after passing the Democrat-controlled California Legislature, repealed personal belief exemptions, including those based on religious convictions, which had been allowed since 1961. Only medically valid exemptions, such as pre-existing disorders that could pose risks if a person receives one of the immunizations for Hepatitis B, polio, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP), or other common childhood vaccines, are allowed under the law. The mothers, who filed their initial lawsuit in November 2023, argue that their religious objections rooted in concerns about vaccines developed using aborted fetal cells prevent them from complying, effectively barring their children from attending schools. According to the appellants brief, SB 277s numerous secular exemptions allow unvaccinated students to enter public or private school based on the status of their family or economic life, such as those who are in foster care or homeless, their age, or whether the student receives special education services. Attorneys say the mothers religious objections are deeply personal. Royce, a mother of three, believes vaccinating her children would make her complicit in abortion due to the use of fetal cell lines in vaccine development. Brown, also a mother of three, and Caraway, who's raising 10 children, share similar concerns, with Brown reporting vaccine-related injuries in her children and one of Caraways children receiving a medical exemption after such an injury. Clark, who homeschools her children through a charter program, views vaccines as a foreign substance that violates biblical principles. Appellants complaint establishes that SB 277 violates their sincerely held religious beliefs, and the cost of exercising their faith is the loss of the fundamental right to private and public schooling in California, the complaint states. Arguing that the district court erred by applying rational basis review instead of strict scrutiny, the brief states the court misapplied a case, Fulton v. City of Philadelphia, a 2021 case in which the U.S. Supreme Court held the city of Philadelphia violated First Amendment rights of a Catholic foster care agency by refusing to renew the agency's contract unless it agreed to certify married same-sex couples as foster parents. The appellants further alleged legislative hostility toward religious objectors, citing California state Sen. Richard Pan, who said people who opt out of vaccines should be opted out of American society, and Maral Farsi, a legislative official, who called objecting parents oxygen thieves who dont care about children. Erin Mersino, vice president of Advocates for Faith & Freedom, said the brief underscores why its important to hold public officials accountable. Before the state is allowed to ban schoolchildren from all public and private schools in California, it must demonstrate that doing so is necessary, she said. It is hard to prove [the] necessity to single out religious exemptions for extinction, however, when the state allows so many secular exemptions which seemingly pose the same harm. Home News 'Protecting the children': Circuit court upholds state's minimum age law for gender medicalization of minors A full circuit court has upheld an Arkansas law that prohibits medical professionals from performing body-deforming sex-change procedures on minors. The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit ruled Tuesday to uphold the Save Adolescents From Experimentation Act, or Act 626, reversing a lower court decision and remanding the case for further proceedings. Circuit Judge Duane Benton, a George W. Bush appointee, authored the majority opinion, writing that the Act does not discriminate on the basis of sex and that the law regulates a class of procedures, not people. The Act is rationally related to the states legitimate interest in protecting the well-being of minors, wrote Benton. It does not violate this Nations historical concept of ordered liberty for the people of Arkansas, through their legislature, to prohibit physicians from providing gender transition procedures for minors. Circuit Judge Jane Kelly, a Barack Obama appointee, authored an opinion that concurred, in part, and dissented, in part, being joined by Circuit Judge James Loken, a George H.W. Bush appointee. Kelly believes there was a startling lack of evidence connecting Arkansas ban on gender-affirming care with its purported goal of protecting children." "The undisputed factual findings in this case show that Act 626 categorically removes the only treatment available for adolescents suffering from a recognized, serious health condition, Kelly claimed. The Act prohibits this treatment indiscriminately, regardless of the method used or its concomitant risks. And the Act prohibits puberty blockers and hormone therapies only for treating gender dysphoria, despite these treatments carrying the same or higher risks when used for different conditions. State Rep. Robin Lundstrum, R-District 87, who sponsored the act, celebrated the appeals court decision in a statement provided to The Christian Post on Wednesday. "I am so grateful for the members of the Arkansas Legislature who stood up for children and families. No child can possibly consent to chemical or surgical castration under the age of 18, or possibly understand the long-term and serious health implications that accompany these experimental procedures," stated Lundstrum. "Never once did a co-sponsor or the members who took a courageous vote against these horrific practices back down. I am thankful for Attorney General Tim Griffin and his incredible team that professionally went about their job of also protecting the children of Arkansas." Lundstrum added that she was "thankful to the citizens of Arkansas and our families who have repeatedly supported and encouraged us to stand strong and fight for children to grow up healthy." In April 2021, Arkansas lawmakers passed the SAFE Act, overriding a veto from then-Gov. Asa Hutchinson. The new law made Arkansas the first state to ban the use of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgeries that mutilate sex organs on gender dysphoric youth. The ACLU filed a complaint against the act in May 2021 on behalf of multiple minors and their families, with a lower court judge siding with the plaintiffs and blocking the law while litigation continued. Over a dozen state attorneys general signed onto an amicus brief in defense of the Arkansas law. "They threaten that Arkansas' law will result in increased suicides even though the research does not support such a claim," the brief stated. "And they assert that the state's protection of its children is 'animus' against transgender youth, even though, among other problems with the statement, most of these children will not identify as transgender as adults since their dysphoria will have resolved naturally so long as they can be protected from Plaintiffs' preferred experiments." In August 2022, a three-judge panel of the Eighth Circuit unanimously ruled to uphold the lower court decision, with Kelly writing in the court opinion that the plaintiffs "will suffer irreparable harm" if they are not given "a preliminary injunction." Home News Appeals court revives lawsuit against Ark. city for firing firefighter over pro-life Facebook post An appeals court panel has revived a lawsuit against a city in Arkansas that terminated the employment of a firefighter because he posted a pro-life image on his personal Facebook account. A three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit ruled Wednesday that the mayor of Forrest City was wrong to fire Steven Melton over an anti-abortion post he shared on Facebook in June 2020. Circuit Judge David Stras, a Trump appointee, authored the panel opinion, noting that there was no suggestion that Forrest City employees require pre-approval to post on their personal social-media pages. The problem is that there was no showing that Meltons post had an impact on the fire department itself. No current firefighter complained or confronted him about it. Nor did any co-worker or supervisor refuse to work with him, wrote Stras. Melton was represented by the Alliance Defending Freedom, a legal nonprofit that has successfully argued First Amendment cases at the United States Supreme Court. ADF Senior Counsel Tyson Langhofer issued a statement on Wednesday noting that whenever the government decides which topics are appropriate for debate, we all lose. The Eighth Circuit rightly recognized that the First Amendments bar on hecklers vetoes protects the full-bodied discussions necessary for public debate, stated Langhofer. Governments cant monopolize the marketplace of ideas, otherwise organizations like The Douglass Leadership Institute, The Radiance Foundation, and Speak for Life, which stand for life especially in black communities that are disproportionately affected by abortion wouldnt be free to speak without fear of government reprisal. In June 2020, Melton posted a photo on his Facebook profile showing a black and white image of a preborn baby with a hangmans noose around its neck, along with the caption, I cant breathe. A couple of weeks later, at the behest of a retired firefighter who was offended by the image as he believed it implied violence against a black child, Melton deleted the post. However, in response to posting the image, Forrest City Mayor Cedric Williams placed Melton on administrative leave and then fired him, despite Melton being apologetic about the post. In response, Melton filed a First Amendment retaliation complaint against city officials, with a district court ruling against the dismissed firefighter. In February 2024, a collection of groups, including The Douglass Leadership Institute, The Radiance Foundation and Speak for Life, filed an amicus brief in support of Melton. The district court allowed the government to do something it could otherwise almost never do punish a citizen for his private speech, stated the brief. The district court ruled that the personal offense of the mayor and hecklers in the community superseded Mr. Meltons right to speak privately on a topic of public concern. Home News Ex-psychic warns Christians of spiritual dangers,' demonic influence of 'The Telepathy Tapes' The Telepathy Tapes, a hit podcast and developing documentary project, has gained a massive following due to its claims that non-verbal autistic children are capable of telepathic communication. But, according to a former psychic-turned-evangelist, the concept carries serious spiritual dangers, especially for Christians. In a recent episode of her podcast, Ex-Psychic Saved, Jenn Nizza welcomed biblical counselor Mark Baker and author and speaker Doreen Virtue to discuss the rising popularity of The Telepathy Tapes, created by filmmaker Ky Dickens, who has two neurotypical kids, and why believers should approach it with caution. Listen to the Ex-Psychic Saved podcast This is a very sensitive topic, Nizza told listeners. Can we read peoples minds, and should we be attempting to read peoples minds? What about people with autism who are so vulnerable as it is spiritually? Baker, who has been in ministry for more than 25 years and counseled for over two decades, reflected on how the series has made a significant cultural splash. Debuting in September 2024, the podcast quickly became the No. 1 show in the world and now includes bonus episodes, fundraising efforts for a documentary, and potential book and film projects. In a world that often dismisses the extraordinary as mere fantasy, 'The Telepathy Tapes' dares to explore the profound abilities of non-speakers with autism individuals who have long been misunderstood and underestimated, reads the podcast description. Though acknowledging the topic of the podcast is fascinating, Baker warned it's also deeply concerning when we hold it up to Scripture. Virtue, who spent decades in the New Age movement before becoming a Christian in 2017, said her alarm went off immediately. She shared the story of a close Christian friend with two non-verbal autistic daughters who use spelling to communicate. That friend rejected the notion that telepathy was involved, attributing her childrens responses to learned knowledge and past experiences, not mind-to-mind transmission. She absolutely thought that that was offensive, that anyone would even suggest this, because, she said, this is her daughter actually learning, even though she cannot speak at all, Virtue said. Both Nizza and Virtue contended that any accurate mind reading in psychic contexts was not a supernatural gift from God but information supplied by demonic spirits. Demons have been around for ages, Nizza said. They have seen what has transpired in peoples lives and can report that with 100 percent accuracy. When we participated in divination, we had already invoked those demons. Baker pointed to passages such as 1 Thessalonians 5:21 and 1 John 4:1 to emphasize the biblical command to test the spirits. He also referenced Revelation 16:14 and Deuteronomy 13 to warn that miracles and accurate predictions are not proof of divine origin. This is how deception works, Baker said. They build confidence by giving you things that are believable, and then comes the hook. The guests described elements of The Telepathy Tapes they found troubling, including references to communication with the dead, out-of-body travel, downloads of special knowledge, and portrayals of children as spiritual guides for humanitys future. Virtue noted that such concepts mirror New Age teachings she once promoted, such as Indigo children and Crystal children supposedly born with heightened spiritual abilities. Theres nothing in the Bible about telepathy, she said. Biblical prophets were 100 percent accurate and called people to repentance. None of the so-called prophets today do that. Instead, they stroke the ego, telling people theyre special, theyll be rich, theyll meet their soulmate. Its spiritually dangerous. Nizza and Baker also expressed concern about the emotional appeal to parents of special needs children who long to communicate more deeply with their children. Nizza recounted hearing of a Christian parent convinced their relative with autism could read minds and deliver godly messages, even being referred to as a prophet. Thats going to be very alluring to somebody who wants to communicate with their non-verbal loved ones, Nizza said. But we have to test it against Gods Word. Virtue added that such claims can exploit grief and parental hopes. The devil is heartless, she said. He exploits people who are grieving, lonely or vulnerable. This is the same pattern I saw in the New Age, just in a different package. The panel cautioned against giving undue weight to the podcasts inclusion of scientific figures, warning that appealing to authority can mislead people eager to believe. You can get a scientist to agree with just about any theory you have, Virtue said. But what does the Bible say? For Baker, the conversation highlighted what he sees as a widespread lack of discernment in the Church. If youre not exercising discernment, youre going to be deceived, he said. We need to know Scripture so well that when we encounter something false, we can immediately recognize it. Throughout the episode, Nizza, Baker and Virtue urged Christians to reject spiritual counterfeits and remain rooted in the truth of the Gospel. They stressed that while the desire to connect with non-verbal loved ones is understandable, believers must resist practices that Scripture forbids. As parents, our greatest prayer should be for the salvation of our children, Nizza said. They can be whole and healed in eternal glory with Him. At the end of the day, our souls are going to one of two places, and that depends on our relationship with Jesus. Home News Judge blocks Trump religious exemption to contraception mandate; Little Sisters of the Poor to appeal A federal judge has blocked a rule from the first term of the Trump administration that provided broad exemptions to religious employers who don't want to offer health insurance coverage for birth control as required by the Affordable Care Act. U.S. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, an Obama appointee, issued the ruling on Wednesday in the case of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and State of New Jersey v. Donald Trump, et al. The Little Sisters of the Poor, a Catholic order of nuns dedicated to charity that had its challenge of the contraceptive mandate heard by the U.S. Supreme Court in the past, was a defendant-intervenor in the case. Beetlestone concluded that the religious exemption rules adopted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2017 "greatly expanded that exemption and accommodation framework" and allowed "more entities to stop providing contraceptive coverage, which will result in more women residents seeking contraceptive care through State-funded programs." "The States have thus shown a causal connection between the Final Rules and their financial injury, and Little Sisters does not dispute as much in its briefing," wrote Beetlestone. Beetlestone also wrote with concern that the religious exemption rule "also extends exemptions to organizations that are unlikely, if ever, to be capable of maintaining a religious objection" and "provides no backstop to who can claim an exemption." The decision declined to address the Little Sisters' constitutional arguments, concluding that they "fall well outside the scope of the matter before the Court and therefore need not be addressed." The Little Sisters are being represented by Becket, a religious liberty-centered legal group that has successfully argued litigation before the Supreme Court. Mark Rienzi, president of Becket and lead attorney for the Little Sisters, said in a statement released Wednesday that he believes the ruling "blessed an out-of-control effort by Pennsylvania and New Jersey to attack the Little Sisters and religious liberty." "It's bad enough that the district court issued a nationwide ruling invalidating federal religious conscience rules. But even worse is that the district court simply ducked the glaring constitutional issues in this case, after waiting five years and not even holding a hearing," Rienzi said. "It is absurd to think the Little Sisters might need yet another trip to the Supreme Court to end what has now been more than a dozen years of litigation over the same issue. We will fight as far as we need to fight to protect the Little Sisters' right to care for the elderly in peace." In May 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a per curiam decision that the Little Sisters and dozens of other religious nonprofits could not be forced to provide their employees with birth control and abortifacients via their healthcare coverage plan. In 2018, the Trump administration issued a rule giving an exemption to any employer with religious objections to the contraception mandate of the Affordable Care Act. The new rule was the subject of legal challenge from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, with the Supreme Court ruling 7-2 in July 2020 to reject the lawsuit on technical grounds. Texas Pastor Scammed For $18K, Ohio Pastors On Krogers LGBT Policies, Foster Care Crisis Putting Children In Danger link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 07:55 07:55 Top headlines for Thursday, August 14, 2025 In this episode, a shocking case where a Texas megachurch pastor and his family were defrauded of over $18,000 by scammers posing as Wells Fargo employees, highlighting the dangers of sophisticated financial scams. Next, we discuss a noteworthy appeal from a coalition of 80 faith leaders in Ohio, urging the nation's largest supermarket chain to reconsider its stance on LGBT support. Lastly, we confront the harrowing reality of child maltreatment in the United States, as Naomi Schaefer Riley uncovers the tragic statistic of over 2,000 young lives lost each year, primarily under the age of three. 00:11 Texas megachurch pastor alleges scammers stole $18K 01:03 Okla. governor champions new law barring men from womens prisons 01:59 Ohio pastors call on Kroger to end 'radical LGBT policies' 02:54 Marine spiked woman's drink with abortion drugs: lawsuit 03:53 Expert warns foster care crisis puts young children in danger 05:04 Lawmakers warn Texas school district over anti-Israel curriculum 06:10 Episcopal diocese helps provide over 100K meals for Gaza The supplier relationship cant be underestimated. Its an integral component to business, and experience teaches us how to build lasting and trusted partnerships. But things dont always go as planned and some expectations fall short. The first sore point is skills. CIOs want to find in their suppliers all the knowledge they dont have in-house, but sometimes they come up against a different reality. The vendor often sends the most experienced sales manager to the sales phase, while at the project phase they send a less experienced person, says Francesco Ciocia, head of IT and digital transformation at Italian veterinary services company Ca Zampa. Its a mistake vendors must avoid since they shouldnt boast about skills they dont possess. CIOs notice this immediately and they should demand experienced people in every interaction. Abonati-va sa primiti pe email saptamanal lista articolelor adaugate pe parcursul saptamanii. Adresele .ru nu sunt acceptate. Email NEWSLETTER Tributes have been paid to Dame Stephanie Shirley, founder of autism charities Autism at Kingwood, Priors Court and Austistica, who died aged 91 on 9 August after a short illness. Shirley set up Autism at Kingwood in Oxfordshire over 30 years ago, initially to support her late autistic son, who had spent 11 years in a psychiatric hospital. Her goal had been for her son and other autistic adults to live in an ordinary house within the community, where they could be supported to live independently. Shirley, known as Steve by friends, went on to establish two more charities; Priors Court in 1999, an autism specialist school in Newbury, and autism research charity Autistica in 2004. An enduring legacy Autism at Kingwood, which now supports 92 people in Oxfordshire and Berkshire to live in their own homes, expressed deep sadness at the death of Shirley, who it said had a remarkable life. She arrived in Britain as an unaccompanied 5-year-old child refugee from Germany in 1939, the charity said in a statement. She and her sister were fostered by a loving couple, and Steve went on to study mathematics at university. She began a successful career path in computer programming, before hitting the inevitable glass ceiling. So, in 1963 Steve set up on her own, recruiting other women and pioneering working from home. Her technology group became Xansa (now Steria) and was hugely successful, enabling her to set up the three charities. Steve was made a dame in the Millennium Honours List for services to the computing industry. Sarah Butcher, chief executive of Autism at Kingwood, said: Steves enduring legacy is defined by her unwavering drive, passion, and commitment qualities that will continue to inspire and guide our work with autistic people. James Cusack, CEO of Autistica, said: Everyone at Autistica is immensely proud to have Steve as our founder. Her values and beliefs are embedded in our charity and drive our commitment to innovative problem solving, acting with urgency and embracing difference. Steve often said that she wanted her life to be one worth saving. She achieved that in so many ways. She leaves behind an incredible legacy for autistic people and their families, of support, research and policy change, that will continue to change lives for generations to come. Prostock-studio / Adobe Stock International development charity World Vision UK has put around 90 staff at risk of redundancy as part of a new consultation. It is the second restructure at the Christian charity in less than a year, with plans to cut about 60 roles by 30 September. Sources informed Civil Society that staff were discouraged by senior management from joining a union during last years redundancies. They warned proposals from the current redundancy consultation period disproportionately impact front-facing staff, particularly fundraising and policy programmes. According to documents seen by Civil Society, this includes 40 roles in its policy programmes and impact team being reduced to 28 jobs, while the individual giving team would be reduced from 15 to 12. Four roles are at risk in central fundraising operations, while 16 are at risk in the communications and marketing team. According to documents, the charity plans to outsource some of the affected roles functions. Hours will be reduced for some positions while some staff will be required to work from the charitys head office in Milton Keynes. However, around 39 new positions will be created including multiple senior leadership roles such as chief operating officer and special assistant to the chief executive. Challenging times for aid sector Functions like governance, policy and government relations are expected to be brought under the chief executives remit. The current changes follow a formal restructure last year, according to sources, which resulted in 30 job losses mainly impacting junior and fundraising roles. World Vision UK has said the current plans are due to the financial challenges facing the international development sector caused by reductions in UK Official Development Assistance. In response to claims staff were discouraged from joining a union, it added that employees have a range of formal and informal support mechanisms in place and have been invited to Q&A sessions with senior leadership including the CEO. Fola Komolafe, World Visions chief executive, said: I am deeply saddened by the impact that this restructuring is having on valued colleagues. In these exceptionally challenging times for the international development sector, World Vision UK remains committed and motivated by our goal to maintain and increase our outreach to help the millions of vulnerable children across the world facing hunger, poverty, threats to safety, and in need of urgent help in emergencies. 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, Despite allegations of fraud and padding of premiums, neither a Miami-based cargo insurance broker nor a Lloyds coverholder can be asked to pay punitive damages in a breach-of-contract dispute, a Florida appeals court decided last week. A plaintiff may not recover damages for fraud that duplicate damages awarded for breach of contract, Floridas 3rd District Court of Appeals wrote in overturning part of a Miami-Dade Circuit Courts ruling, citing Florida statutes and previous court decisions. Its the second time in a month that an appeals court has underscored the limited path that insurers must stick to in seeking recovery of funds paid due to misrepresentation. Claims of unjust enrichment are barred, as well as punitive damages, the courts have now emphasized. Read more here about the federal appellate court decision published in July. In the Miami case last week, Anova Marine Insurance Services and Chaucer Syndicates Ltd. had sued Ramon International Insurance Brokers and its president, Iris Arden. Anova, with offices in Miami, and Chaucer, a London-based Lloyds syndicate insurer, argued that Ramon and Arden had provided insurance coverage to a yacht service beyond what was explicitly allowed by the contract with Anova. Ramon repeatedly declared shipments and accepted commodities outside of the Chaucer House Policy terms, despite being notified that such shipments were outside of coverage, Anovas lawsuit complaint in Miami-Dade County contends. Ramon also told the client that a riskier form of inland transportation for a yacht would be covered, even though it was not, the complaint alleges. While being transported from Maryland to Rhode Island in 2020, the insured yacht struck an overpass in New York. In a separate coverage claim in 2020 involving the transport of earth-moving equipment, the Ramon brokerage and Arden had told Anova that the client had demanded a lower premium. But that wasnt true, the underlying lawsuit alleges. The heavy-equipment client had already agreed to premiums, and Ramon was attempting to pocket the difference as much as $263,051, the complaint charges. In fact, Ramon, through Arden, knowingly misrepresented (the clients) position. Ramon in fact invoiced the higher premium , but reported to Plaintiffs the reduced premium, the suit argued. Defendants made the misrepresentations because they intended for Ramon to invoice for a premium based on the higher original rates quoted by Anova but actually pay Anova for a premium based on the lower rates and keep the difference. Still, in both instances, Anova agreed to pay most of the insurance claims, hoping to avoid a lawsuit from the insureds, then filed suit and sought reimbursement from Arden and Ramon. Although (Anova) believed the subject coverage(s) were unenforceable, they recognized that the assured was an innocent party that was misled by Ramons conduct into believing it had actual or apparent authority to provide coverage, Anovas attorneys wrote, citing court rulings that have held that an insurer may be held accountable for the actions of those whom it cloaks with apparent agency. Arden, president of Ramon since 1995, and the broker have denied the allegations. They argued at trial that it was Anova that had fraudulently induced Arden to transfer all of Ramons cargo insurance business to Anova, and damages are due to the broker. The underlying lawsuit was paused for more than a year while the 3rd District appeals court considered the trial courts decision to allow Anova and Chaucer to seek punitive damages, but denying Ramon and Arden the same type of compensation if the jury found in the brokers favor. The Florida Supreme Court in 2022 for the first time allowed interlocutory appeals on whether lawsuits can include demands for punitive damages. Last week, the 3rd District appellate judges stood firm on what other courts have found: That punitive damages are allowed only when it is shown that the actions of the defendant include a separate claim of wrongdoing. Punitive damages are generally not recoverable for a breach of contract unless it is accompanied by a separate and independent tort claim, the appeals court said, quoting from appellate court decisions handed down in 1983, 2000, and 2017. It is well established that breach of contractual terms may not form the basis for a claim in tort, the court noted, citing a 1994 case ruling. Where damages sought in tort are the same as those for breach of contract a plaintiff may not circumvent the contractual relationship by bringing an action in tort. The lawsuit gives some insight into the world of cargo insurance and brokerage. While brokers can earn as much as 20% commission on policies, the premiums are remarkably low in some cases. In the yacht transport coverage, the premiums were about 0.03%, or $350 per $100,000 in coverage, the lawsuit explained. Anova, in business since 2011, was sold this summer to Specialty Program Group. Established in 1980, Ramon International is a Lloyds broker and a Kastor Group company that offers marine, property, casualty and treaty re/insurance solutions. The 3rd District appeals court decision can be seen here. GILFORD TOWNSHIP, Michigan A van carrying several members of an Amish community was hit by a pickup truck Tuesday, killing six people, authorities say. Five of the dead were Amish, WJRT Channel 12 reports. One person in the pickup truck also was killed. A news release from the Tuscola County Sheriffs Office says the crash occurred at 4:44 p.m. at an intersection in Gilford Township, which is about 100 miles north of Detroit. The pickup truck, which had three people inside, went through a stop sign and hit the van, which had 10 people inside, the news release says. The force of the collision caused multiple people to be ejected from the van and the pickup, the sheriffs office says. In addition to the fatalities, six people were injured. Only one person didnt require medical aid. Please keep those affected by this tragedy in your thoughts, the news release says. These incidents are preventable and people need to slow down and obey traffic laws. Police have arrested two men in connection with the Aug. 9 shooting death of Timothy Kappenhagen. File photo CLEVELAND, Ohio Two men are in custody as police continue investigating the shooting death of a Cleveland man outside the Maple Heights Giant Eagle earlier this month. On Aug. 9, officers were called to the grocery store at 5321 Warrensville Center Road about 1:40 p.m. and found Timothy Kappenhagen suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest, according to Maple Heights police. Police said Kappenhagen, 28, was loading groceries into his car when a man approached him in the parking lot. The two struggled, and the suspect shot Kappenhagen before fleeing in the victims vehicle, police said. Kappenhagen was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center, where he died the next day. Police recovered the stolen vehicle shortly after the shooting. Early Monday morning, RTA police recovered a separate vehicle of interest and arrested the two men who were inside, according to the release. No charges have been filed, and police would not identify the suspects. Authorities are still searching for other persons of interest in the case. The killing shocked customers and workers at the busy shopping center. In the days following the shooting, police increased patrols in the area and urged shoppers to remain vigilant. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Maple Heights Detective Bureau at 216-587-9624 or email Detectives@mhpd-ohio.com. Generative AI assisted in writing this article. Trump says to seek extensions of federal control of D.C. police Xinhua) 10:14, August 14, 2025 WASHINGTON, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he will submit a crime bill and ask Congress for approval to extend the federal control of the Metropolitan Police Department to address crime in the nation's capital. "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 told reporters following an event at the Kennedy Center. "We're going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you can't have 30 days." On Monday, Trump signed an executive order declaring a crime emergency in Washington, D.C. to "protect public servants, citizens, and tourists, and ensure the safe functioning of the federal government," according to the White House. The emergency will last for 30 days, and any extension needs to be approved by Congress. Trump on Wednesday also criticized D.C.'s push for statehood, saying: "Statehood is ridiculous. We want to straighten the place out." National Guard troops began deploying in D.C. on Tuesday night, with 800 members expected to be fully operational by the end of the week, a senior army official told local media. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Jim Cramer covered each holding in the Investing Club's portfolio during the August Monthly Meeting on Thursday. He went over five stocks new investors should consider buying and when to sell others as the S & P 500 trades near record highs. Apple: This stock has had a big rally following the company's announcement last week of an additional $100 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing. It just goes to show: Don't give up on Apple. The next major test will come if a U.S. judge in Alphabet's antitrust case ends its search exclusivity deal with the iPhone maker. If that happens, Apple management will have to come up with a plan to offset the $20 billion worth of annual payments from Alphabet. We remain confident and maintain our "hold, don't trade" thesis on the stock. Amazon: The company's cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services, isn't growing as fast as hoped. That was seen in second-quarter earnings late last month. Still, we're staying long on the stock. AWS is a huge business, and demand for cloud infrastructure is incredibly high. Abbott Laboratories: We've been selling down the position on the belief that Abbott just doesn't have the same oomph that it used to. Its recent earnings report suggested the headwinds in China could be more prolonged than previously thought. Jim said if it fell much further, we'd consider rebuilding the position. Broadcom: This company is one of the linchpins of the AI trade thanks to its custom chips and networking equipment. The scale of the AI buildout is so immense that, despite all the negatives, we just have to plow through and the stay the course. We did trim our Broadcom position for a big gain on Aug. 6, to not be greedy. BlackRock: The financial stock is well positioned for more upside as the broader equities market continues to trade near record highs. That's because BlackRock shares typically work best in a portfolio when assets are growing from appreciation and contributions. Bristol Myers Squibb: Could the rise in M & A activity and a more hands-off approach from antitrust regulators put Bristol Myers in play? Jim says it's possible, though not certain. A forthcoming trial on its new schizophrenia drug Cobenfy could help quell some concerns about its commercial potential that arose after prior results fell short of investor expectations. Capital One: If the U.S. economy goes south, Capital One could get hit because it's heavily levered to the health of the consumer. So far, however, there are no serious warning signs that could impact credit quality. Additionally, we continue to celebrate Capital One's recently-completed blockbuster acquisition of Discover Financial. Costco: This is a great stock to own during macroeconomic uncertainty, as the wholesale retailer attracts value-conscious customers. "When times get tough, people go to Costco," Jim said. Investors should consider buying more. Salesforce: The idea that "AI is eating software" has won over Wall Street, and the argument has its merits, as we explored earlier this week . We accordingly downgraded our rating on Salesforce. But we're not ready to bail altogether. We want to see the latest revenue contributions from Agentforce in its upcoming earnings report, and its big annual Dreamforce conference this fall has historically been a positive catalyst. CrowdStrike: Investors should consider buying CrowdStrike as shares tumble due to a broad slump in the cybersecurity sector. The stock's move lower, however, has nothing to do with the company's fundamentals. That's why it's a solid time to capitalize on the dip. Cisco Systems: This is our newest addition to the Club's portfolio, which we initiated on July 17. The computer networking equipment powerhouse has a big opportunity to benefit from AI. Plus, the firm has a strong track record of returning capital to shareholders. Cisco posted a top and bottom line beat Wednesday evening. The company, however, missed revenue estimates for its security segment, which sent shares lower. It didn't change our thesis on the stock though. Coterra Energy: This stock has become a cruise to nowhere, and we opted to exit the rest of our small remaining position. It's a tough market for the underlying commodities that Coterra depends on for revenue, and operational issues caught us by surprise too. DuPont: Shares are in a lull ahead of DuPont's forthcoming breakup, experiencing what many on Wall Street call "spin purgatory." Although we don't know with certainty when the stock will pick up again, it will happen in a span of days, rather than weeks or months. That means investors should buy DuPont stock again anytime it dips lower ahead of the split. Danaher: We're holding this lagging stock as we await more clarity on potential catalysts. The company could spring back to life if an IPO window opens for biotech, which could boost orders for Danaher. That being said, Danaher's increased focus on life sciences has made the firm lose some of its optionality. Disney: New to the Club? Disney is one to buy. Theme parks are strong, movies are very good and streaming is fine. Nothing is great enough to lift the stock to the $130s. But it most certainly belongs in the $120s. Dover: It's been a lackluster 2025 for Dover, with shares down 4.5% year to date. But more aggressive portfolio management could be a way to improve investor sentiment. By divesting one of its far-flung businesses, management could unlock more value. Eaton: This stock's performance has been nowhere near impressive as of late, but members should stick with Eaton. The industrial conglomerate has decent exposure to secular growth themes with its aerospace and data center businesses. Jim, however, wishes management would split the company in two because it's more difficult for them to create value together. GE Vernova: This power equipment maker has a huge growth opportunity as the data center build out continues to raise demand for offerings like gas turbines. "Here's a stock that almost seems to be invented for this moment," Jim said of GE Vernova. He isn't happy, however, that management has been resistant to adding production capacity for its turbines. Goldman Sachs: This might be "one of the cheapest stocks" the Club owns, Jim said. That's because shares will be worth much more as Wall Street dealmaking picks up. More IPOs and M & A deals can lead to an upside to revenue for Goldman's highly lucrative investment banking business. Home Depot: With rates still high, this retailer has had a lackluster stock performance. That being said, Home Depot is the ideal stock to own during an interest-rate-cutting cycle. Lower borrowing costs should cause a much-needed rebound in the housing market, which means more business for Home Depot. Honeywell International: Yet again, Jim pounded the table on Honeywell's spinoff into three public companies. "The three pieces could be worth dramatically more than the stock is selling for," he said. "My conviction is very high for this." Let's hope it helps its share price, too. Honeywell stock has underperformed the market in 2025, down nearly 3% year to date versus the S & P 500's 9.7% gain. Linde: Jim described Linde as the "perfect industrial." The company continues to thrive in various macro backdrops, as seen in its many consecutive beat-and-raise quarters. Plus, Linde's immense pricing power makes us love the stock even more. Eli Lilly: We double upgraded Lilly on Wednesday after a great sign of confidence from management and the board of directors in buying up a bunch of stock in the open market. While it's usually not our style to adjust the rating so soon after we downgraded it, when the facts change, we must change with them. Meta Platforms: Buy this stock on its next dip. Meta shares could run higher if management effectively monetizes WhatsApp. The social media behemoth has made recent strides to turn WhatsApp into a moneymaker by rolling out advertisements back in June. Meta clearly has the toolbox to make another great ads business. Just look at the reach of the company's platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Microsoft: We recommend members buy shares on any weakness. The firm had a picture perfect quarterly earning report in late July, fueled by accelerated revenue growth in its cloud computing business. This put to bed any question of Microsoft's leadership in generative AI. Nvidia: The company reports on Aug. 27, and this quarter at least will hinge on how well they're meeting demand for Blackwell chips rather than its China business. As with Broadcom, the size of the AI buildout and the money that will flow to Nvidia makes the stock a must-own. Palo Alto Networks: Shares have been weighed down by weakness in cyber, along with concerns about management's intent to acquire CyberArk. The market's reaction is overblown though. "I feel very good about this situation," Jim said of Palo Alto. Starbucks: This is Jim's favorite consumer-facing stock we own right now. Patience is required on the turnaround, led by CEO Brian Niccol, because when things really get better, it will be too late to buy. TJX Companies: There's nothing to do with TJX ahead of earnings next week. After a two-month downtrend, the stock has climbed back up into the low-to-mid $130s. We were right to stay the course despite those worrying about a technical breakdown. Texas Roadhouse: Investors should "buy this one aggressively," Jim said. Although elevated beef prices weighed on profitability in the second quarter, the restaurant chain has great revenue growth and has executed well on what it can control. Plus, there's no telling when we'll see Texas Roadhouse stock this low again following its earnings-induced selloff last week. Wells Fargo: This bank stock is undervalued. Jim said he'd buy some now if the portfolio didn't own any. He forecasted that shares could rally past its record highs, and still not be too expensive. Plus, Wells has a decent chance to grab more M & A deals moving forward now that its $1.95 trillion asset cap has been removed. (See here for a full list of the stocks in Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. Appaloosa Management's David Tepper on Thursday disclosed a new position in Intel , amid news reports that the Trump administration is considering a stake in the U.S. chipmaker. He also built a strong stake in beaten-down insurer UnitedHealth Group . The hedge fund billionaire built a sizable Intel stake of $179.2 million in Intel at the end of the second quarter, according to its latest regulatory filings. The disclosure comes after Bloomberg, citing sources familiar, said the U.S. government will potentially claim a stake in the chipmaker and support its efforts to expand domestic manufacturing. On Thursday, Intel shares closed more than 7% higher. The U.S. chipmaker has outperformed in 2025, rallying 19%, following its worst calendar year on record in 2024 as it failed to compete with overseas rivals. Intel has come under the crosshairs of President Donald Trump. In recent days, the president called for the resignation of CEO Lip-Bu Tan over allegations he has ties to China. Trump then walked back those criticisms and called Tan a "success" this week following a meeting with the CEO. Tepper also raised his bet on UnitedHealth Group, by 1,300% to a $764.3 million allocation that makes the stock the fund's second-largest holding, according to the filing. He was not the only one buying last quarter with Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway also disclosing a new stake in the troubled insurer. The investor also continued to up his exposure to the names most exposed to the artificial intelligence buildout. He added to Nvidia, the firm's seventh largest holding, by 483% in the second quarter, to a $276.5 million holding. He also pumped dollars into Taiwan Semiconductor , by more than 279%, and into Micron Technology , doubling his stake. However, he cut his exposure to Magnificent Seven names Meta Platforms and Alphabet , by more than 25%, each. In this article DORL-IL Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT Voltify plans to build a series of energy microgrids to power its locomotive batteries, as shown in this computer-generated image. Voltify Daphna Langer has a bold ambition: To decarbonize the rail industry in less than a decade. How? By convincing U.S. freight railroad companies to switch from diesel power to rechargeable batteries part of a business model Langer estimates could make her company, Voltify, as much as $10 billion a year. The rail industry needs to reduce its emissions by 5% a year by 2030 to reach net-zero goals, according to a 2023 report by the International Energy Agency. In addition, switching to battery electricity would save U.S. rail freight companies $94 billion over 20 years, according to a 2021 study published in the journal Nature Energy. Voltify's VoltCars essentially sodium-ion batteries on wheels are designed to connect to existing freight locomotives. Convincing the $80-billion U.S. rail industry to switch from a traditional and long-relied on fossil fuel to renewable energy might seem a tough task, but there are several reasons Langer said she is confident in Voltify's goal. After a stint advising multiple early-stage companies in the climate industry, Langer noticed two things that limited their growth. "Most of them rely on subsidies of governments, and [the] second [factor] is that they rely on manufacturing and scaling that just doesn't exist today," she said. In a bid to overcome those hurdles, Langer held meetings with hundreds of people in the energy and materials industries, seeking opportunities. When she first met her co-founder Alon Kessel, it was a "ding ding" moment, she said. A computer-generated image illustrating Voltify's VoltCar batteries attached to a locomotive. Voltify Kessel knew the renewable energy market well, having co-founded Doral , a firm that owns and operates dozens of solar energy farms in the U.S. and Europe. He calculated that the six largest freight railroad companies in the U.S. including Union Pacific and CSX were collectively spending more than $11 billion a year on diesel, a figure verified by CNBC. Union Pacific, for example, spent almost $2.5 billion on fuel in 2024, per its annual report. Langer and Kessel saw an opportunity. What if they could convince the large companies known as Class 1 railroads to convert their locomotives from diesel to battery power? "Converting six companies is not that hard. And having that ability to create such an impact with just six companies, it's huge," Langer said. There is almost 140,000 miles of freight railroad track in the U.S., with the majority of the locomotives powered by diesel as there is little overhead electrification. Langer and Kessel founded Voltify in 2023 and set about meeting the railroad companies. But they found initial resistance. "There's a lot of skepticism, because this is such a traditional industry, and uptime and and reliability are key," Langer said. "We've been figuring out what would be able to ... fit into their schedule, to fit into their operations without harming their efficiency." The companies' biggest concern was the amount of time it might take to charge the batteries, and that there would always be the power supply to do so. "The rail companies, who have been very blunt about it, [said] 'Listen, we don't really care about the energy source. We just need to make sure that it's always up. There's always energy,'" Langer said. So Voltify spent about a year working on an algorithm that could forecast the energy demands of trains "in every route," Langer said, and the company is also building its first solar-powered energy microgrid that Langer said is on track to be finished by the end of the year. "Our calculations show that a network of these microgrids could eventually power all trains in North America," Langer told CNBC in an email. Voltify estimates that to do so would require 1,400 microgrids. Wabtec's FLXdrive battery locomotive was developed in 2019. Wabtec Voltify is in "very active" talks with three of North America's largest railroad companies, Langer said, adding that it is set to run a demonstration project with a smaller railroad company later this year. Voltify is also starting a pilot with a Class 1 railroad company in early 2026, and Langer said it is "expected" that this will become a commercial deployment after several months. Voltify isn't the first company to come up with the idea of powering freight trains with batteries. In 2019, freight rail firm Wabtec developed a battery-electric locomotive called the FLXdrive, with the first trains set to operate in Australia after being ordered by miner BHP Group. The company also tested its battery-electric locomotive with GE, and said in an email to CNBC that it plans to test and operate FLXdrive trains in North and South American markets. The technology can reduce diesel consumption and emissions by 30%, according to Tim Bader, Wabtec's director of external and engineering communications, in an email to CNBC. "This benefit is critical since fuel is one of the major operating costs for a railroad," he said. But as the technology is emerging, there are challenges such as charging time and battery capacity, plus a "challenging" business case given the infrastructure investments required. "Like any emerging technology, these challenges will diminish as the industry continues to research and improve battery-power solutions," Bader said. A computer-generated image of a passenger train on New York City's MTA Metro North network, which is set to be powered by Siemens Mobility Charger B+AC battery. Siemens Mobility (This is The Best Stocks in the Market , brought to you by Josh Brown and Sean Russo of Ritholtz Wealth Management.) Josh Computer assisted design (CAD) is one of the most critical software niches in most industries, turning out finished products, from aerospace and defense to iPhones and laptops, tractors and skyscrapers. If it's built in the physical world, it's likely to be built with CAD assisting the designers during the process. Many investors are familiar with Autodesk, the largest player in the space, but we're going to tell you about a competitor whose stock has recently been added to our Best Stocks in the Market list. Today we're going to talk about PTC , formerly known as Parametric Technologies. PTC was founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1985 where it is still headquartered 40 years later. The company has been reporting quarter after quarter of accelerating growth rates and cash flow generation. Sean will tell the story below and I'll be back with some risk management for people taking the trade. Best Stock Spotlight: PTC Inc (PTC) On the list since: 7/09/2025. Sean PTC is a technology company that develops software to help businesses design, manufacture, and manage products. Its solutions include computer-aided design (CAD) tools, product lifecycle management (PLM) systems, and industrial Internet of Things (IoT) platforms that connect products to data for real-time monitoring and analytics. The company has this tagline on its website: "You can't go a single day without encountering a product engineered, manufactured, or serviced with PTC software." This company is everywhere. They helped design Bose audio systems and John Deere tractors, and their software helps manage Philips MRI machines. Thus far, AI's biggest leaps have been in software language models, image generation, and analytics but the combination of AI with increasingly capable robots is thought to be the next domino to drop. As AI improves, robots will be able to handle more complex, unstructured tasks that were previously too unpredictable for automation. Everything from warehouse sorting and precision assembly to elder care and restaurant work. Looking at PTC's current fundamentals, the business is growing at a fast clip. They saw 14% ARR growth year-over-year, 24% revenue growth and 14% free cash flow growth, all exceeding prior guidance. EPS more than doubled, and their operating margin expanded by over 1,400 basis points to 33%. PTCs business is seeing a lot of traction. Operating income grew from $30 million in Q1 2019 to over $200 million in the most recently reported quarter, or about 7x in 6 years. PTC trades at a 49x trailing PE ratio, which is a decent premium to the industry average of 34x. Its industry comps include Autodesk, Ansys (acquired by Synopsys) and Cadence Design Systems (all are on the Best Stocks list). One of the reasons for its premium is the quality of its financials. PTC's recurring revenue accounted for 93% of 2024 revenue, providing a heightened ability to forecast budgets and cash flows. Traders are taking notice of the business, as are competitors. In July, Bloomberg News reported rumors of AutoDesk evaluating a cash offer for PTC, which has since been ruled out by ADSK management. PTC fits nicely within the AI/robotics narrative. Its deep integration into product design and lifecycle management positions it as an enabler of the coming wave of AI-powered robotics. Risk management Josh As you can see in the chart below the stock is now consolidating a huge post-earnings reaction from their recent report. Traders can use that rising 50-day moving average at $188 as a "moment of truth" while investors may want to give it a bit more leash. The 200-day should be turning higher even if the stock continues to consolidate. I want to be long so long as it remains above using weekly closing prices as my line in the sand. DISCLOSURES: (None) All opinions expressed by the CNBC Pro contributors are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of CNBC, NBC UNIVERSAL, their parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, internet or another medium. THE ABOVE CONTENT IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY . THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSITUTE FINANCIAL, INVESTMENT, TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE OR A RECOMMENDATION TO BUY ANY SECURITY OR OTHER FINANCIAL ASSET. THE CONTENT IS GENERAL IN NATURE AND DOES NOT REFLECT ANY INDIVIDUAL'S UNIQUE PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES. THE ABOVE CONTENT MIGHT NOT BE SUITABLE FOR YOUR PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES. BEFORE MAKING ANY FINANCIAL DECISIONS, YOU SHOULD STRONGLY CONSIDER SEEKING ADVICE FROM YOUR OWN FINANCIAL OR INVESTMENT ADVISOR. INVESTING INVOLVES RISK. EXAMPLES OF ANALYSIS CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE ARE ONLY EXAMPLES. THE VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED ARE THOSE OF THE CONTRIBUTORS AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OFFICIAL POLICY OR POSITION OF RITHOLTZ WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC. JOSH BROWN IS THE CEO OF RITHOLTZ WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND MAY MAINTAIN A SECURITY POSITION IN THE SECURITIES DISCUSSED. ASSUMPTIONS MADE WITHIN THE ANALYSIS ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF THE POSITION OF RITHOLTZ WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC" TO THE END OF OR OUR DISCLOSURE. Click here for the full disclaimer. Here are Thursday's biggest calls on Wall Street: Mizuho reiterates Nvidia, Dell and Advanced Micro Devices as outperform The firm raised its price target on several semis companies Wednesday evening. "Raising Ests/PT for NVDA to $205 (prior $192) AMD to $205 (prior $183) as Hyperscaler capex continues to tick higher, while China adds another tailwind. Raise DELL PT to $160 (prior $150) with strong Tier 2 CSP [cloud service providers] ramps. " Bank of America adds Advanced Micro Devices to the US1 list Bank of America added the stock to its top ideas list. "We are adding Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) to the US 1 List." JPMorgan downgrades Li Auto to neutral from overweight JPMorgan downgraded the China electric vehicle company on rising competition. "Li Auto (d/g to Neutral): We trim our 2025/26E volume and earnings by ~10-20%, reflecting the fast-changing competitive dynamic facing Li." Read more. Wells Fargo initiates Steel Dynamics as overweight Wells Fargo said it likes companies that have exposure to the U.S. "We prefer names with U.S. exposure, as we see steel prices supported by a drop in imports and inventory into year-end that can support mill pricing power. Top picks include STLD and CMC, while we're less confident in imminent relief from excess Chinese supply for more global players TX and MT." UBS initiates SiTime as buy UBS said the semis company has "big AI leverage." "We initiate coverage of SiTime (SITM) with a Buy rating and $260 PT (20% upside)." Citi reiterates CoreWeave as buy Citi said it is sticking with shares of CoreWeave. "The upcoming lock-up may further pressure shares, but we believe buyers will emerge with continuing strong AI demand and a capacity/revenue inflection in Q4/FY26." Rothschild & Co Redburn initiates Regeneron as buy The firm said it is bullish on shares of the biotech company. "For Regeneron , that cycle has been even more extreme: huge sector outperformance since 2012 until a dramatic reversal over the past year. Time for another look at the company? We think so and launch coverage with a Buy recommendation and a $890 price target." Stephens upgrades Asbury Automotive to overweight from equal weight Stephens said in its upgrade of the car detailing company that Asbury is starting to fire on all cylinders. "As part of our work on this note and upgrade, we spoke to numerous auto dealer leaders and operators who know David Hult, worked with him or worked for him. The feedback on CEO Hult is unanimous and consistent. He is a hands-on, attention to details operator." Deutsche Bank reiterates Amazon as buy Deutsche Bank said it is cautiously optimistic on Amazon's grocery strategy. "Early yesterday, Amazon announced what it called "one of the most significant grocery expansions" in the company's history, with free SameDay delivery for US Prime users on perishable orders of $35 or more. While, Amazon's grocery strategy has been a bit of a moving target, and success has been uneven, we do believe that the new product could prove meaningful to Amazon's grocery volume in the medium term." HSBC upgrades dLocal to buy from neutral HSBC upgraded the fintech company following earnings. " dLocal has been exhibiting low earnings volatility and improving disclosures over the past year, and finally this quarter we saw a big EBIT beat (despite some one-off trends) and continued strong volumes." Mizuho upgrades MAA to outperform from neutral Mizuho said the real estate investment trust has an "underleveraged balance sheet." "We upgrade MAA t o Outperform ($150PT), given: accelerating blended rents into 2H25 and accelerating core and FFO/sh growth into 2026e; falling supply across MAA's core markets, suggesting less operating risk and supporting rent improvement; underleveraged balance sheet supporting external growth and further capital deployment." Morgan Stanley reiterates Cisco as overweight Morgan Stanley raised its price target on the stock to $73 per share from $70 following earnings. " Cisco's FQ4 posted upside about in-line with investor expectations, with AI orders accelerating." Cantor Fitzgerald initiates Workday as overweight Cantor said shares of the HR software company has an attractive entry point. "WDAY is a high-quality asset with a strong management team, entrenched competitive position in the enterprise, expanding growth vectors, and latent margin potential. The stock is trading near its all-time low EPS and FCF multiples, which we see as an attractive entry point with a positively skewed risk/reward ratio." Wells Fargo reiterates Sunrun as overweight Wells Fargo raised its price target on the stock to $14 per share from $8 and says the solar company remains a top idea. "We're raising our PT to $14/sh, based on a DCF framework: $8/sh of base value and $6/sh of terminal value (2030+). We continue to view RUN as a top pick in the residential solar space." Read more. Citi reiterates Microsoft as buy Citi said the tech giant remains a top idea at the firm. " MSFT remains a top pick in software, and we believe this week's announcement is another indication of the company's strong pricing power, which we believed combined with accelerating cloud/AI share gains can drive outsized returns." Barclays initiates Schrodinger as overweight Barclays said shares of the biotech company have plenty more room to run. " Schrodinger (SDGR) has a physics-based drug discovery platform that drives revenues, is used to develop partnered therapeutics programs, and helps fund and internally develop their own early stage pipeline of therapeutics." BTIG upgrades Kratos Defense and Security Solutions to buy from neutral The firm said it sees a slew of positive catalysts ahead for the defense solutions company. "We have consistently called out that the lack of a sizable program of record with steady procurement volumes is something that has kept us from seeing further upside for KTOS shares." Bank of America upgrades Sherwin-Williams to neutral from underperform Bank of America said its "thesis has played out" for Sherwin-Williams . "When we downgraded shares to Underperform, we were concerned about a deceleration in housing markets and sell-side estimates that were overly optimistic. Fundamentally, the thesis has played out, as same-store sales growth has declined to 0.8% and 2Q results and guidance fell short of expectations." Baird upgrades CVS to outperform from neutral Baird said the drug-chain retailer is in the middle of a "healthcare benefits turnaround story." "We grow increasingly confident on CVS ' path to unlocking HCB [healthcare benefits] embedded earnings power of ~$5 EPS off 2024." Hello, this is Amala Balakrishner, writing from Singapore. This week, I look at how India's wealthy are anchoring their fortunes in real estate. Enjoy! This report is from this week's CNBC's "Inside India" newsletter which brings you timely, insightful news and market commentary on the emerging powerhouse and the big businesses behind its meteoric rise. Like what you see? You can subscribe here. Each weekday, CNBC's "Inside India" news show gives you news and market commentary on the emerging powerhouse businesses, and the people behind its rise. Livestream the show on YouTube and catch highlights here. SHOWTIMES: U.S.: Sunday-Thursday, 23:00-0000 ET Asia: Monday-Friday, 11:00-12:00 SIN/HK, 08:30-09:30 India Europe: Monday-Friday, 0500-06:00 CET The big story India's wealthy may be emigrating, but they are keeping a firm grip on their real estate investments in the country and abroad, a choice that's fueling a property boom in the luxury market. In a recent newsletter, I explored how wealthy Indians are seeking other residencies abroad for strategic reasons, rather than a permanent relocation. According to Dhruba Jyoti Sengupta, CEO of Wrise Wealth Management Middle East, many of these high-net-worth individuals remain bullish on India and allocate around 80% of their investments domestically. A notable portion of this, he added, is going into real estate. "Indians, by and large, have always had a cultural affinity for real estate," Himmat Singh, managing director of global luxury real estate agency Christie's International Real Estate, told me. "Traditionally, post-independence, there were limited assets for people in India to invest in and only a small portion of investors played in the market." That legacy still shapes portfolios today, Singh said. While definitions vary, individuals with a net-worth of 50 million to 250 million Indian rupees ($571,000 to $2,855,000) are typically considered high-net-worth, while those with more than 250 million Indian rupees are considered ultra-high-net-worth. Affluent individuals fall in the 10 million-50 million Indian rupees range. For many, owning a property is a "cornerstone of wealth strategy," Wrise's Sengupta said, adding that it serves as both a financial asset and lifestyle statement. Owning residences abroad, whether for rental income, personal stays, or commercial units in which they can operate their businesses, also provides a global footprint. India's uber-rich defined as the top 1% of Indian households, or individuals earning the top 40% of income held on to $11.6 trillion or 59.1% of all assets held by Indian households, according to data from investment house Bernstein. Of this, $7.1 trillion, or 61.2%, is parked in real estate and gold, the same report indicated. "Rich and poor Indians have historically relied on physical assets," such as gold, land and real estate to park their savings, Manas Agarwal, vice president and analyst at Bernstein, said. REITs, houses and commercial units The lure of real estate lies in long-term appreciation. These benefits typically outweigh the higher costs and lower liquidity associated with the asset class, experts told me. The capital appreciation on real estate has more than doubled in value over the last four years, and many have made "a significant return," Christie's Singh observed. The average wealthy Indian owns multiple types of real estate. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are becoming a popular instrument given their ability to "generate more predictable yields without the operational burden of direct property ownership," Wrise's Sengupta said. Residential and commercial properties are also popular. In the first quarter of 2025, housing prices in India rose 7.7% from the year before, outpacing the U.S., U.K. and Australia. Sales of luxury houses priced between 60 million and 500 million Indian rupees jumped 88% in the second quarter of the year compared with the same period in 2024, while the number of launches for such apartments grew 40% from the year before, a report by real estate firm CBRE showed. While prices vary across cities, $1 million can buy 99 square meters of prime property in Mumbai, data from Knight Frank's latest Wealth Report shows. By comparison, the same amount is worth 32 square meters in Singapore, 34 square meters in London and New York, 44 square meters in Shanghai and 78 square meters in Dubai. Within India, the rich typically own single-family homes, or a self-contained residential building for their daily occupancy, in major metropolises like Delhi, Mumbai or Bengaluru. Such homes are typically in a gated community and can cost at least 200 million Indian rupees for a 2,500 square feet unit in some parts of Delhi, Singh said. Beyond this, they also invest in "palatial" country homes spanning around 1 to 2.5 acres (43,560 to 108,900 square feet) located outside the city, Singh suggested. He named Alibaug, a coastal town that is a two-hour ferry ride away from Mumbai, and Chhatarpur, a town that is not too far from Delhi, as destinations with such homes. Homes in India, Singh said, are increasingly held over a five to 10 year period following a change in India's income tax rules, where only gains of 100 million Indian rupees are exempt from capital gains taxes. This, he added, has resulted in less speculative investing and is a good move for the long-term stability of India's property market. For property investments outside India, the wealthy consider functionality and long-term returns, Singh observed. Dubai is a popular location given its strong rental yield of 6% to 7% as more companies relocate or expand there, he said. Other popular destinations include Ras Al-Khaimah in the UAE, an up-and-coming city that is set to generate substantial near-term gains, Thailand's Phuket and Koh Samui, where Indians visit to relax and unwind, as well as London, where many head to out of familiarity. Beyond real estate But it's not just real estate. The analysts I spoke to said that India's wealthy are also investing in other assets. They are now looking beyond physical assets to capital markets, given "how strong they have been in the last few years," Bernstein's Agarwal said. Private markets such as venture capital, private equity, and hedge funds have also emerged as a popular option with many wealthy individuals funding global start-ups to tap into the growth they will enjoy from increasing their total addressable market, Himanshu Kohli, co-founder of an Indian multi-family office and private wealth manager at Client Associates, told me. Cryptocurrency is also finding a place in portfolios, albeit at a small percentage of around 2%, as investors are betting on the bitcoin rally as a hedge against macroeconomic uncertainties, said Sengupta. India's wealthy are also looking for opportunities outside the country. "Ten years ago, wealthy Indians invested almost entirely at home. Today, it's India plus the world. India remains the growth engine, with capital flowing into companies, startups, and pre-IPO opportunities but now, global investments in equities, private markets, and overseas property are built in early, not just at retirement," Sengupta noted. Top TV picks on CNBC CNBC's Jim Cramer said Thursday that Amazon 's deeper push into the grocery business is creating a "new narrative" for the company as it threatens to disrupt incumbents like Walmart . Amazon announced Wednesday that Prime members in more than 1,000 cities and towns can now get free same-day delivery on fresh groceries for orders over $25. The e-commerce and cloud giant plans to more than double that reach by year-end, with further expansion slated for 2026. Cramer called it the "Amazon factor" suggesting the company's new push into same-day delivery of produce, dairy, and frozen food alongside household items helps solidify it as the ultimate one-stop shop for consumers. "You're going to get your food. You're going to get your drugs. It's going to come to your house," he said. "It's a whole new world and Amazon's got it." Wednesday's move, billed by Amazon as "one of the most significant grocery expansions" in its history, is seen by the market as a material escalation in the online grocery battle. Amazon stock advanced 1.4% on the announcement and was up another 1.9% on Thursday. Shares of Walmart and Target , which use their physical stores to service online orders of fresh groceries, were under pressure for a second straight session on Thursday. Delivery competitors fared much worse. Instacart and DoorDash were both down big again Thursday after sinking 11.5% and 3.8%, respectively, on Wednesday. Club stock Costco also faltered Wednesday but was steadier Thursday. Cramer said Wednesday Costco should never have been down on the Amazon news because the retailer is not in the same business. Costco is a "price business, a volume business," he said. Amazon has been able to expand its grocery offering because it keeps making same-day delivery more efficient. It has "reduced the average distance packages travel by 12% and lowered handling touches per unit by nearly 15%," said Amazon CEO Andy Jassy during the company's post-earnings conference call on July 31. Jassy cited strategic positioning of the company's fulfillment centers and the ability to send more items in each order, which resulted in fewer packages. "These improvements are making the network faster and structurally more efficient," the CEO added. That delivery speed has been driving customers to buy everyday items like cleaning supplies, vitamins, and personal care products online instead of making the trip to the grocery store. Last quarter, Everyday Essentials' growth outpaced the rest of the business globally and represented one out of every three units sold. By leveraging its large and loyal Prime customer base and increasingly efficient delivery speeds, it wouldn't be surprising if Amazon takes market share from top grocery players. At the same time, though, the impact across the industry may take time to unfold. We continue to maintain our buy-equivalent 1 rating on Amazon shares and a $250 price target. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long AMZN, COST. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED. US Vice President JD Vance poses for a photograph with U.S. troops and families during a visit to RAF Fairford on August 13, 2025 in Fairford, England. Leon Neal | Getty Images News | Getty Images U.S. Vice-President JD Vance's summer trip to the quintessentially British spot the Cotswolds has been heavily criticized by some locals not least because of heightened security measures, including police roadblocks and check points. Earlier this week, Vance visited the area as part of a working holiday, which has also included meetings with various U.K. political leaders, such as Foreign Minister David Lammy. Thames Valley Police were "supporting the United States during the Vice President's visit to our area to ensure the safety of all involved. A restricted access area has been put in place in a small part of Dean as part of our operation," a spokesperson said in a statement shared with CNBC. A police road block is in operation, filtering access to the village of Dean, three miles north of Charlbury, west of London on August 12, 2025, as the US Vice President JD Vance takes his vacation in the English countryside. Darren Staples | Afp | Getty Images Footage shared online also appeared to show that roads had been cleared to allow for the passage of Vance's large motorcade, with a U.K. police escort accompanying the convoy. The vehicles seem to have been flown across the Atlantic for Vance's visit, which is common for the U.S. administration according to media reports. A motorcade leaves Prestwick Airport after U.S. Vice President JD Vance landed with the Air Force 2 on August 13, 2025 in Prestwick, Scotland. Peter Summers | Getty Images News | Getty Images Police officers secure 'Spotters Mound' where people watched the landing of Air Force Two carrying US Vice President JD Vance at Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Scotland on August 13, 2025. Andy Buchanan | Afp | Getty Images As the U.S. vice president's journey continued into Scotland, police were once more present this time watching out for people who had gathered to witness Vance touch down. An extensive motorcade also waited for the U.S. official and his family on the runway. While heightened security is common when top world officials travel, the measures reportedly implemented in the Cotswolds on this occasion have drawn additional attention. Claims have emerged on social media that residents were asked for their social media accounts and had to provide the names of everyone in their households. Local police denied the claims, which CNBC could not independently verify. "No officers were instructed to ask residents about their social media accounts or use, and we have received no complaints regarding this," a spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said in an updated statement on Thursday. "To reduce local impact due to temporary road restrictions during the visit, we held brief courtesy conversations with residents to understand their access needs and facilitate safe movement. It was made clear that participation was entirely voluntary and that responses would not be shared outside the police force," they added. Vance's visit to the Cotswolds also gave locals the opportunity to celebrate by way of a so-called 'Vance not welcome party.' A spokesperson for the Stop Trump Coalition, which organized the protest, told CNBC on Wednesday that the gathering of around 80 people mostly locals was "joyous," with a "wonderful" atmosphere. Protestors were seen holding banners and placards expressing their frustration about Vance and the wider U.S. administration, as well as mocking the vice president. A meme depicting Vance as bald was also incorporated widely, having been printed on balloons and even on a billboard in a nearby town. Attendees pose with placards at a "Vance not welcome party". Darren Staples | Afp | Getty Images Lip-Bu Tan, chief executive officer of Intel Corp., departs following a meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. Intel shares rose 7% on Thursday after Bloomberg reported that the Trump administration is in talks with the chipmaker to have the U.S. government take a stake in the struggling company. Intel is the only U.S. company with the capability to manufacture the fastest chips on U.S. shores, although rivals including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and Samsung also have U.S. factories. President Donald Trump has called for more chips and high technology to be manufactured in the U.S. The government's stake would help fund factories that Intel is currently building in Ohio, according to the report. Earlier this week, Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan visited Trump in the White House, a meeting that took place after the president had called for Tan's resignation based on allegations he has ties to China. Intel said at the time that Tan is "deeply committed to advancing U.S. national and economic security interests." An Intel representative declined to comment about reports that the government is considering taking a stake in the company. "We look forward to continuing our work with the Trump Administration to advance these shared priorities, but we are not going to comment on rumors or speculation," the spokesperson said. Tan took over Intel earlier this year after the chipmaker failed to gain significant share in artificial intelligence chips, while it was spending heavily to build its foundry business, which manufactures chips for other companies. Intel's foundry business has yet to secure a major customer, which would be a critical step in moving towards expansion and giving other potential customers the confidence to turn to Intel for manufacturing. In July, Tan said that Intel was canceling plans for manufacturing sites in Germany and Poland and would slow down development in Ohio, adding that spending at the chipmaker would be closely scrutinized. Under Trump, the U.S. government has increasingly moved to put itself at the center of deals in major industries. Last week, it said it would take 15% of certain Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices chip sales to China. The Pentagon bought a $400 million equity stake in rare-earth miner MP Materials. It also took a "golden share" in U.S. Steel as part of a deal to allow Nippon Steel to buy the U.S. industrial giant. Intel shares are now up 19% this year after losing 60% of their value in 2024, the worst year on record for the chipmaker. WATCH: Trump decision to allow chip sales to China is 'reverse tariff' Institutional investors are once again playing catch-up with retail traders, according to JPMorgan. Mom-and-pop retail investors have bought newly crowned meme stocks such as Opendoor for months, according to the Wall Street investment bank. But only recently have big investors also jumped into this trade. The bet has paid off. After seven straight losing months, Opendoor posted a dizzying rally of 245% in July, and is up another 30% so far in August. OPEN 3M mountain OpenDoor shares over the past 3 months This marks only the latest example of small investors leading the charge this year, according to Arun Jain, a global markets strategist at the bank. "As an interesting pattern within 'Meme' stocks retail buying in prior months is followed by non-retails joining the trade more recently," Jain wrote to clients in a Wednesday note. "This is in line with our reading on the broader market." Jain also pointed to retail investors "buying the dip" following President Donald Trump's initial wave of higher tariffs in April. Those investors benefited when stocks rallied after Trump later said he would delay many of those charges. The S & P 500 has jumped almost 19% since the closing low on April 8, less than a week after the original tariff announcement on April 2 . .SPX 6M mountain The S & P 500, 6 months Big investors aimed to regain ground via higher-beta plays, Jain said. As a result, he found high-beta crowding to be at an all-time high and thinks this corner of the market could be due for a pullback. Right now, retail traders are showing a preference for exchange-traded funds such as the SPDR S & P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) and SPDR S & P 500 ETF Trust (QQQ) over single stocks, according to JPMorgan data. But not all ETFs are getting the same treatment. Jain said the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) and the Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X Shares (SOXL) ETF were both among the most sold on a net basis over the past week. In this article DIS Follow your favorite stocks CREATE FREE ACCOUNT When American Natasha Colkmire returned to work after having her first child, she didn't want to leave her newborn son with a nanny to go on a business trip. So she convinced a family member to tag along. "They would meet up with me when my son needed to be nursed," she said. "We also had the evenings together." The trip worked so well that Colkmire took more business trips with non-colleague companions. "My grandma went to Houston with me, a friend went to St. Paul, and my mom helped me when I needed to do a job in Washington D.C.," she said. "Each person loved getting the free trip." More than half of business travelers (55%) have had loved ones join their work trips, according to a survey of 4,000 adults from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Spain published Wednesday by the travel tech company TravelPerk. Among C-suite executives, the number jumped to 73% with executives saying they've had partners (53%), children (22%), friends (21%), and even pets (7%) join their business trips, according to TravelPerk's data. Companionship and cost savings For some, bringing loved ones on business trips is a way to reclaim time together, according to Jean-Christophe Taunay-Bucalo, TravelPerk's president and COO. "Traveling for work can be lonely," he told CNBC Travel. "Work trips can be an opportunity to experience something new, and by taking a loved one along, you remain connected." Plus, business travelers don't have to miss family time, be it bedtimes or birthdays, said Taunay-Bucalo. "For me, it's about having the best of both worlds, and sometimes performing at my peak also means seeing my kid at the end of a work day it provides some normality," he said. Other business travelers who spoke to CNBC said there is another motivation money. Colkmire, who now runs a travel website, recalled the time she joined her husband on a work trip to Vienna, Austria. Natasha Colkmire joined her husband on a work trip to Vienna, Austria. She has also taken other family members on her own business trips. "Each person loved getting the free trip. Source: Natasha Colkmire "Our expense was cut in half, which was a huge blessing so that we were able to explore an area of the world that we had not yet been to without breaking the bank," she said. Bridgette Borst Ombres, a former journalist turned public relations consultant, said she has used work trips to create "budget-friendly mini-vacations" for her family. "Attending a tech conference at Disney World in Orlando, Florida, was the perfect business trip to bring along my husband and then-2-year-old daughter," she said. "The conference lasted two days, so while I was working, my husband took our daughter to visit his dad, who lived in the area, and we'd meet up for dinner in the evenings." I didn't keep [my] travel plans a secret, nor did I broadcast them to coworkers. Bridgette Borst Ombres founder of The Commsultant After the conference ended, Ombres and her family spent a few days at Walt Disney World. "My hotel was covered by my company for the first two days, but I paid for the additional nights and all of our activities. My plane ticket was also covered by the company but I purchased my husband's ticket separately," she said. That blend of personal and business travel, or "bleisure" as it's known, was valued at $315 billion in 2022 by Allied Market Research. The advisory firm projects blended trips will reach $731 billion globally by 2032. To tell or not to tell? Bringing loved ones on business trips is common and generally accepted, said Frank Harrison, regional security director for the Americas at risk management company World Travel Protection. However, that doesn't mean that employees are revealing their plans to their companies. "I didn't keep [my] travel plans a secret, nor did I broadcast them to coworkers," Ombres said. "Part of it was worrying it might come across as unprofessional." Bridgette Borst Ombres turned a tech conference in Orlando into a mini-vacation to Walt Disney World. Her family has also joined her on business trips to New York City, she said. Source: Bridgette Borst Ombres Deepak Shukla, CEO of the London-based marketing company Pearl Lemon, said he's turned three-day work trips into week-long adventures with his wife in New York City, Lisbon, Dubai and Tokyo. "I don't hide it from my team," he said. "If the work's done and costs aren't creeping into the company card, it's nobody's business." However, he said big corporations often view traveling with family as a "policy grey zone." "The sticking points are expense claims, insurance coverage, and whether leisure days blur into workdays ... [which are] messy for tax and liability," he said. "That's why some companies quietly allow it but expect employees to keep receipts and activities clearly split." Business first U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks next to U.S. President Donald Trump during a press conference about deploying federal law enforcement agents in Washington to bolster the local police presence, in the Press Briefing Room at the White House, in Washington D.C., U.S., August 11, 2025. The man facing a felony federal assault charge for allegedly chucking a Subway sandwich at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent in Washington, D.C., was an employee at the Department of Justice, Attorney General Pam Bondi said Thursday. The man, identified in court documents as Sean Charles Dunn, has been fired, she said. Dunn worked in the international affairs section of the criminal division of the DOJ. The department this week deployed hundreds of federal agents to D.C. as Trump federalized the city's police force to address what he says is rampant crime in the capital. "I just learned that this defendant worked at the Department of Justice NO LONGER," Bondi said in an X post. "This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ," she added. "You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement." A video of the incident, which occurred Sunday night in Washington's Northwest section near the intersection of 14th and U streets, shows an agitated man in a pink polo shirt and light shorts speaking to a small group of agents on a sidewalk, while holding a wrapped Subway sandwich in one hand. He then winds up and hurls the sandwich into the chest of the officer nearest to him before sprinting away while at least three officers give chase, the 32-second clip posted by FBI Director Kash Patel shows. Dunn was arrested Wednesday night, Patel said. A statement from a D.C. police detective says that Dunn started shouting and pointing a finger in the face of CBP Agent Gregory Lairmore while standing "within inches" of the officer. "F--- you! You f------ fascists! Why are you here? I don't want you in my city!" Dunn allegedly said over the course of several minutes. Dunn crossed the street while "continuing to yell obscenities" at Lairmore, then approached the officer and "forcefully" threw the sandwich, the detective wrote. Dunn was apprehended after attempting to flee the scene, the court document says. While being processed by the Metropolitan Police Department, Dunn said, "I did it. I threw a sandwich," according to the detective. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act into law on Aug. 14, 1935. FPG | Archive Photos | Getty Images Ninety years ago, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act, which created the program that now sends monthly benefit checks to millions of Americans, including retirees, disabled individuals and families. But by the time the program celebrates its centennial, benefits may not look the same as today's Social Security payments. The reason: Social Security's trust funds, which the program relies on to help pay benefits, are facing a looming shortfall. Starting in 2033 two years before its 100th anniversary the program may only be able to pay 77% of scheduled benefits for retirees, their families and survivors, Social Security's trustees projected in an annual report released in June. However, should those funds be combined with Social Security's trust fund for disability benefits, as has happened in prior emergencies, payments may be cut one year later, in 2034. At that point, 81% of scheduled benefits would be payable, Social Security's trustees project. Importantly, Social Security benefits would not disappear entirely. The program would still have ongoing income from payroll taxes to help fund benefit payments. That scenario is not inevitable. Changes to the program may be enacted sooner to shore up its funding and prevent sudden benefit cuts. Most, 83%, of surveyed Americans think Social Security reform should be a top priority for Congress, even if it means benefit cuts or tax increases for future beneficiaries, according to a new poll from the Bipartisan Policy Center's American Savings Education Council. The group polled more than 4,000 adults. "This is the time for action," said Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Louisiana, who is among the lawmakers pitching a plan to help restore the program's solvency, told CNBC.com. Pitch for a new $1.5 trillion investment fund Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana speaks to the press on Capitol Hill on Feb. 10, 2021. Nicholas Kamm | AFP | Getty Images Cassidy has teamed up with Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia., to co-lead a bipartisan pitch the centerpiece of which is a new $1.5 trillion investment fund for Social Security, separate from Social Security's current trust funds. The initial $1.5 trillion outlay would be borrowed. Because the money would be held in escrow and could be liquified, it would not increase the national debt, Cassidy said. The funds would be invested more aggressively than Social Security's current trust funds, which are invested in U.S. Treasury securities. Because those investments are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, they are secure. However, the average rate of return over a one-year period was around 2.5% in 2024. In contrast, the S&P 500 has returned an annual average of around 10%, though those results vary from year to year. Investing the proposed separate investment fund in stocks, bonds and other investments could cover an estimated 70% of Social Security's trust fund shortfall, Cassidy said. That would make it much more doable for lawmakers to address the remaining 30%, he said. watch now The senators' plan does not include any benefit cuts or tax increases for seniors, Cassidy said. It would provide benefit increases for two cohorts beneficiaries age 80 and older who are at less than 200% of the federal poverty level, and low earners who have a long work history earning low wages. Lawmakers could consider increasing the size of the investment fund to help cover the rest of the shortfall, he said. Rights to manage the fund would be left to a bidding process, which could result in lower fees and higher returns, Cassidy said. Critics, including Rep. John Larson, D-Conn., have said investing in other securities as the senators' plan suggests would privatize Social Security and therefore threaten Americans' retirement security. In response, Cassidy points to the federal Railroad Retirement system, which in 2001 moved from investing solely in government bonds to more aggressive instruments, including stocks. That change was approved by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and has helped the program operate with a positive balance today. Still, some experts are dubious. In a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed, Andrew Biggs, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, said while he applauded the first bipartisan plan to fix Social Security in two decades, he questions whether the plan could work. Among the concerns he details are the amount of money that the plan requires the government to borrow, as well as the increased investment risk that would be required without a guarantee of higher returns. Another proposal calls for the wealthy to pay more Rep. John Larson, D-Conn., and other lawmakers discuss the Social Security 2100 Act, which would include increased minimum benefits, on Capitol Hill on Oct. 26, 2021. Drew Angerer | Getty Images News | Getty Images Cassidy and Kaine are not the only lawmakers looking at potential solutions to solve Social Security's dilemma. Larson has a plan that has been reintroduced in multiple sessions of Congress that would provide benefit increases while increasing taxes on the wealthy. The last time Social Security was meaningfully enhanced was in 1971 under President Richard Nixon, Larson said in an interview with CNBC.com. More than 5 million Americans currently receive below poverty-level checks from Social Security, according to Larson. Larson's most recent proposal from 2023 would temporarily increase benefits for all beneficiaries, while also providing specific enhancements for those receiving minimum benefits; widows or widowers in two-income households; and children of deceased, disabled or retired workers who are full-time students. The plan also proposes changing the way annual cost-of-living adjustments are calculated. To pay for those benefit increases, Larson's plan calls for income over $400,000 to be subject to payroll taxes. In 2025, workers stop contributing to Social Security for the year once they reach an income of $176,100. Both employers and employees pay a 6.2% tax on wages up to that threshold. More from Personal Finance: Social Security cost-of-living adjustment may be 2.7% in 2026 'Big beautiful' bill does not eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits How having a 'bridge' strategy can help Social Security claiming The Bipartisan Policy Center poll finds a majority of Americans support lifting the cap on income subject to payroll taxes, with 65% of Democrats and 62% of Republicans. That includes a "significant majority" of respondents with annual household incomes over $200,000, according to the results. Larson's plan also called for a separate 12.4% tax on net investment income for taxpayers making over $400,000. Larson plans to reintroduce his plan in the current session of Congress with some tweaks. "We'll be rolling out a presentation in September that will include not only protecting Social Security, but also enhancing it," Larson said. The plan will also make it Congress' responsibility to act more frequently to help ensure benefits continue to meet individuals' needs, he said. "I think that that's got to be paramount to keeping this in check," Larson said. Larson plans to push for a vote on his bill. But he also wants an open debate. "There has to be a public discussion," Larson said. What Americans want from Social Security A person holds a sign reading 'Save Our Social Security' in support of fair taxation near the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on April 10, 2025. Tax justice advocates attended a rally to speak out against President Trump's tax cuts for the wealthy, and to urge members of Congress to intervene. Bryan Dozier | Afp | Getty Images European defense stocks have further to run regardless of whether U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin achieve a breakthrough on the war in Ukraine later this week, market watchers say. Trump and Putin are slated to meet in person in Alaska on Friday, with a view to discuss what it would take to end the more-than-three-year conflict that began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Reports that the two heads of state would meet buoyed broader European equities on Thursday, but sank regional defense stocks . Concerns about Russian aggression had contributed to decisions by European governments and the NATO military alliance to drastically hike their defense budgets, benefiting security companies operating in the region . So far this year, the Stoxx Europe Aerospace and Defense index has surged by 52%. Following three consecutive days of losses after the Trump-Putin summit was announced, the index regained some ground, and was last seen trading 1.3% higher in Thursday's session. Market watchers told CNBC that a deal to end the fighting in Ukraine which may not be on the horizon of Friday's meeting was unlikely to throw Europe's defense growth off course. 'Win-win' for defense stocks In emailed comments to CNBC on Wednesday, Dmitrii Ponomarev, product manager at VanEck EU, pointed to a recent Financial Times report that Europe is "building for war," with arms sites expanding at roughly thrice the pace struck during peace time. He labeled this as "evidence that the current ramp is broader than Ukraine resupply alone." "No firm would add that much capacity if it depended only on Ukraine shipments; the bigger driver is NATO Europe's pivot to modernization and restocking under the new 5% of GDP long-term goal, of which about 3.5% is the truly comparable "core" defense spend, anchoring multi-year demand," he said. "Even with a peace deal, stockpiles don't magically refill: governments still face years of munitions and air-defense replenishment, so revenues likely shift from short-term surge programs toward steadier replenishment, sustainment, and long-horizon modernization." VanEck runs a $6.9 billion Defense ETF, which includes stakes in some of Europe's biggest defense stocks. Among the fund's top holdings are Italy's Leonardo , France's Thales and Sweden's Saab . Ponomarev said that companies that rely more heavily on deliveries to Ukraine or supplying short-cycle munitions "may feel a sharper de-rating if urgency fades" from any potential breakthrough emerging from this week's Alaska summit between the Russian and U.S. leadership. "[But] more diversified primes with long-cycle programs, services, and sustainment should be better placed to absorb near-term volatility," he said. Asked on Monday whether the European defense boom remained a long-term story regardless of the outcome in Ukraine, Christopher Granville, managing director of TS Lombard, said he "strongly agrees" that the momentum has further to run. "My call on European defense stocks since about 2023 when it became clear that the Russian military was extremely powerful and was not going to be rolled out of those territories in eastern and southern Ukraine has been buy on any weakness, on any temporary pullback, because this is a win-win for European defense stocks," he told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe." Granville pointed out that either the negotiations would go off the rails on Friday an outcome that he labeled "more than perfectly possible, if not likely" or peace would be struck. The former would result in the need for America and Europe to replenish their arms inventories, he said, while the latter would lead to "a very powerful Russian military." "Although the words victory and defeat [would] be bandied around, [this would be] a Russian military which has to an extent, prevailed," he said. "That reality will force a continued increase in defense procurement by European governments, and it's also good for European defense stocks. Either way, it's a winner." Granville noted that markets had been discounting the second scenario's ability to benefit defense companies. "From time to time, those names pull back a bit you should buy on that weakness in my opinion," he advised. 'At least a decade' of rearmament Defense company leaders have been telling CNBC in recent weeks that an end to the Ukraine war would be unlikely to derail the boost to European defense spending. In conversation with CNBC's "Worldwide Exchange" on Monday, Dimitrios Kottas, co-founder and CEO of Greek autonomous defense tech developer Delian Alliance Industries, said the timing of Europe's consensus to modernize defense capabilities was correlated with the invasion of Ukraine, but argued that this rearmament would last "at least a decade." "It's something that is driven by historical macroeconomic forces, [that are] much stronger than the current ongoing invasion in Ukraine," he said. Micael Johansson, CEO of Swedish defense giant Saab , meanwhile insisted the growth in European defense was "absolutely" a long-term trend. "I have a hard time seeing, after all that happened with the invasion in Ukraine and the aggressive neighbor that we have to the east even if we get a ceasefire or peace deal that is reasonable with Ukraine, that [governments] would step back and say it's over," he said in an interview with CNBC toward the end of July. Earnings misses and downgrades The bull run this year hasn't been a continuously upward trajectory, even without questions surrounding the future of Ukraine. Shares of German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall shed 8% on Thursday, after the firm's earnings came in below expectations . The company said contracts had not been awarded during the reporting period given the election of a new government in Germany, but noted that an anticipated influx of orders in the second half of 2025 meant Rheinmetall was able to confirm its full-year guidance. Rheinmetall is one of the best performers in European defense this year, with its shares gaining roughly 160% over the course of 2025. In a Friday note, Deutsche Bank's Christoph Laskawi argued that Rheinmetall's second-quarter result "does not change the investment case by any means." "The order intake potential ahead remains significant and the win rate should be high which is the basis for sizeable revenue growth in the coming years," he said. Back in June , Citi's European Aerospace and Defence analyst Charles Armitage downgraded Hensoldt, Renk and Saab whose shares have all more than doubled in value this year to give them a "sell" rating. He argued at the time that the companies were "pricing in more growth than seems likely." A lot of optimism nevertheless still remains in the sector. "It's no surprise [defense] share prices have jumped sharply this year, maybe to unsustainable levels in the short term and a welcome resolution or ceasefire in Ukraine may see their prices soften," Neil Birrell, chief investment officer at U.K. investment management firm Premier Miton, told CNBC by email. "However, the spend on defence and related infrastructure is here to stay and will be taking place over the coming years and decades. The move to greater regional self-reliance for defence, energy, food and raw materials is a very long-term one. Defence stocks will be big beneficiaries of that." With global uncertainties due to geopolitical tensions and the US tariffs looming large, India is looking to diversify exports to cover more commodities and geographies to cushion its exporters from any disruption.Stating that the proposed Export Promotion Mission is under inter-ministerial consultation and will be announced very soon, the Commerce Ministry said that it is working on the issue along with the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) even as state governments are also looking at ways to help facilitate exporters by providing a level-playing field.While the government is working on the four strategy pillars of export competitiveness, strength to export promotion, export diversification and import diversification, it's fast-tracking FTA (Free Trade Agreement) negotiations across geographies and taking EoDB (Ease of Doing Business) forward by streamlining trade facilitation through digital platforms like Trade e-Connect, trade facilitation app, 247 e-IEC generation, e-CoO 2.0, e-BRC, Jan Sunwai facility, etc.India's FTA with the EFTA bloc is slated to come into force from 1st October, which will allow Indian exporters to enjoy concessional duties for sale of their products in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.India has urged the UK to fast-track enforcement of the the signed FTA and has urged the European Union (EU) to fast-track ongoing FTA negotiations, on which a lot of work has already progressed. While India and Oman have concluded talks for an FTA and intend to sign when dates are decided by both the sides, the Commerce Ministry pointed out that 84% saturation in exports and 86% saturation in imports has been achieved under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA).A high-level delegation is going from the MEA, with officials from the Commerce Ministry, is slated to go to Russia soon to engage on several issues, which may include rupee trade. On rare earth magnets, the Ministry said that efforts are underway to ensure that supply chains remain unimpacted, adding that the Chinese embassy has issued visas to Indian companies, which are already in touch with the Chinese authorities.Terming trade developments as "good" and "moving forward" with China, the Ministry said that both exports and imports are growing. In the ongoing review of the India-ASEAN FTA, India has asked for an overall increase in trade by resolving tariff barriers as well as non-tariff issues like regulatory compliances, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT). Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said that data exclusivity in the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime should be looked at without keeping any window for evergreening. Describing data exclusivity as the last missing link before India witnesses an inflow of billions of dollars of investment leading to millions of jobs, he made it clear that he doesn't want evergreening to creep into the Indian system to make medicines more expensive. He accused many companies of not seeking patents for the entire life of a product and applying for one only towards the end of a 20-year life cycle only to seek an extension in the garb of data exclusivity. Speaking at an interaction with stakeholders in the IP domain after inaugurating the newly-expanded building of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) in New Delhi, the Minister said that India is set to identify 1,000 legal provisions across several legislations in the next 45 days for decriminalization of minor offences as he called for technology-driven solutions against counterfeiting to prevent corruption and rent-seeking by corrupt officials. Asking stakeholders about any banks that were inclined for trademark monetization after the Kingfisher issue, he stressed on the need to integrate and harmonize India's IPR regime as he urged domestic companies to increase their R&D budgets while highlighting India's cost effectiveness in R&D and clinical trials. Also Read: ED arrests former IAS Officer, three others in Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation bribery case The Minister pointed out that the interests of the domestic generic pharmaceutical drugs sector have been protected in the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) signed by India with the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) bloc, which comprises of Switzerland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland. India had refused accept demands from the UK and Switzerland for data exclusivity to protect generic pharma industry, with government sources having assured in May this year that the FTAs won't hamper growth and exports from India's generic drugs sector. Pharmaceutical companies AstraZeneca and GSK are based out of the UK, while Novartis and Roche are based out of Switzerland. Sources explained that India's stand will forbid British and Swiss pharmaceutical firms from stopping competitors to make low-cost versions, adding that India's resistance to data exclusivity for foreign pharma companies is aimed at protecting domestic interests. The tenure of data exclusivity allows pharma companies to stop competitors from getting marketing licenses for low-cost versions. In other words, data exclusivity protects technical data generated by innovating pharma companies in course of expensive clinical trials undertaken to prove the efficacy of the medicines being made. India exports around 50% of the pharmaceuticals made by its generic drug industry, whose size is around $25 billion. India is also in talks with the US for an FTA, which had flagged curbs in April this year on the patent-eligible subject matter in Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, which prohibits grant of evergreening of patents, i.e. additional patents for a drug with no therapeutic benefit. The European Union (EU) has also sought amendments in Indias Patents Act to allow evergreening of patents in pharmaceuticals. Speaking at the World Health Summit regional meeting in April 2025, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal had pointed to several requests for evergreening patents by pharmaceutical companies, stating that it was sad to see the world suffer for the supernatural profits of few companies and their shareholders. #WATCH | Delhi | On Pakistani leadership's comments against India, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus pic.twitter.com/YlmHhIo7lV ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 #WATCH | Delhi | On a question by ANI regarding the award by the Court of Arbitration under the Indus Water Treaty, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements pic.twitter.com/cx8zdrAtYN ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 India advised Pakistan to temper down its rhetoric against the country, warning that any misadventure would have painful consequences, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday, August 14."We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said a press briefing in New Delhi."Pakistan would be well-advised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences, as was demonstrated recently," he added.Responding to a query regarding the award by the Court of Arbitration on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), the official said that the treaty is in abeyance by a sovereign decision of India."India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the 'so-called' Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements are therefore without jurisdiction, devoid of legal standing, and have no bearing on Indias rights of utilisation of waters. India also categorically rejects Pakistans selective and misleading references to the so-called 'award'," Jaiswal said."As reiterated in our press release of 27 June 2025, the Indus Waters Treaty stands in abeyance by a sovereign decision of the Government of India, taken in response to Pakistans continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism, including the barbaric Pahalgam attack," he added. In 2025, Americas TV-watchers arent interested in comedy that might make them aware of their own condition. Perhaps theyd prefer to escape from their reality in the comfortable neon glow of Suds instead. Tonights new episode of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Gang Gets Ready for Primetime, featured Dennis, Mac, Charlie and Dee preparing for their appearance on The Golden Bachelor by subjecting themselves to round after round of live test screenings to figure out which version of themselves will be most palatable to middle-American network television viewers. Spoilers ahead for anyone who couldnt guess the answer, but, naturally, theres no flattering angle for The Gang that will make the devil-fearing, backflip-loving masses less scared and put-off by their antics because, lets face it, the target audience for phony, feel-good, heavily-scripted reality television probably doesnt laugh at burn victims becoming boy pimps and accidental rape scenes in community theater productions. While prepping The Gang for his test-screening scheme at the top of the episode, Dennis dissuades Dee from trying to turn the opportunity into a platform for her cringey comedy, telling the group, Weve moved past comedy as a society. We dont want it anymore, weve decided. You know, it makes us think too much about our current condition, and, really, we dont want to think about ourselves because it makes us feel bad about ourselves, and then we project onto the people who are making us think, and then we cancel em. Don't Miss I guess thats one way to explain why Lethal Weapon 5 isnt in the Philadelphia public library anymore. This is bigger than looking good, the most important thing is to not look bad, Dennis implores his friends in the first act of The Gang Gets Ready for Primetime, telling them that they will submit themselves to the test audiences scoring over and over again until finally we land on the most perfect versions of ourselves that will appear to the wildest possible audiences and offend no one. That is how you make great art! Advertisement Throughout The Gang Gets Ready for Prime Time, the entire cast of Always Sunny desperately tries to reshape themselves into the mold of a heterosexual, non-Satanic, non-traditional but entirely normal sort-of-family unit that can earn a passing grade in likability from the test audience. But, for all The Gangs total physical and spiritual transformations, the normies who somehow spent a month crowding around the Gangs staged dinner scene in Dennis and Macs apartment only ever respond to Dees terrible prop humor and exciting stunts that Mac cant quite pull off. Advertisement In a metatextual sense, The Gang Gets Ready for Prime Time is about how It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia will never be able to convince Middle America to watch and enjoy the show, but, more than that, its about how Hollywoods obsession with pleasing the largest possible audience has led to a consistent output of bland, boring, focus-grouped slop comedy thats entirely indistinguishable from any other high-testing option on the market. Advertisement At the end of the episode, The Gang concludes that theres no point in changing themselves to appeal to a wide audience, because theyll never be able to make everyone like them. Plus, from a purely practical standpoint, there was never any point to Dennis focus-group scheme in the first place, since Frank never intended for any of them to appear on The Golden Bachelor he hired actors to do the family visit episode without telling his real family. Or, as Mac would put it, Frank went woke, and he didnt go broke. Robert Smigels TV Funhouse turns 25 this year, as good a reason as any to talk about the SNL bits that inspired the show on the Fun for All Ages podcast. Those classics include Fun with Real Audio, the X-Presidents, and of course, the Ambiguously Gay Duo. Turns out that the origin story of the two superpowered chums dates back to The Dana Carvey Show, on which Smigel was a writer alongside Dino Stamatopoulos (Communitys Star-Burns). Smigel decided cartoons would be a good way to differentiate Carveys show from Saturday Night Live, and Stamatopoulos pitched an X-rated version of Wallace and Gromit that wouldnt stand a chance against the network censors. Don't Miss But the idea got Smigels brain-gears turning. I said, What about two superheroes and everybody suspects they're gay? Give partial credit to the superhero movies of the day, especially Batman & Robin. That installment, starring George Clooney as the come-hither crusader, featured an extended sequence in which director Joel Schumacher delivered steamy close-ups of latex-covered nipples and asses. In addition, there was a lot of of gay panic at the time, Smigel said. And a lot of people frustrated with celebrities who were not coming out. One magazine put up posters of Jodie Foster, challenging her to go public about her choice in bed partners. I was fascinated by our obsession with peoples sexuality. Im still fascinated by it, he says. Theres this weird distortion that comes with it where people just become identified by who they fuck or how they fuck. The biggest laughs in Ambiguously Gay Duo, explained Smigel, are courtesy of the villains who cant help speculating about Ace and Garys chummy relationship. The best version of this cartoon is the first one because its really 90 percent about the badly animated villains exchanging very subtle looks that you would never have seen in a Filmation cartoon in the 60s, he said. Advertisement Advertisement The series other main joke, according to Smigel, was the fine line between homophobia and homoeroticism that you would see in movies like Predator. Or where Stallone is a super macho guy, but he has all the body oil. Schumacher was doing his own kind of satire with his Batman films. He was trying to make a statement there. That was again about our obsession with sexuality. Due to the cartoon sketchs popularity on Carveys show and SNL, the jokes extended into visual puns like a phallus-shaped car bursting through boulders that resemble a giant ass. We did so many jokes like that, Smigel sighed. I get why theyre funny, but thats not the initial intention of the sketch. In a perfect world, the cartoons gags would have been less obvious and more, well, ambiguous. Every once in a while, a cynical, market research-fueled attempt to sell plushies succeeds beyond a film executives wildest dreams. Advertisement 14 Mork A few episodes after Fonzie literally jumped the shark, Happy Days proved that it wasnt done throwing Hail Marys. They introduced Robin Williams as Mork from Ork, and had a whole Fonzie versus Mork battle that maybe was, maybe wasnt a dream. This one appearance was so popular that Williams got his own spin-off, Mork & Mindy. Advertisement 13 Frasier Crane Not many people know this, but the smash hit Paramount+ series Frasier is actually a revival and sequel of a sitcom from the 90s by the same name. That 11-season behemoth all sprang out of a small character from Cheers who cropped up in the third season, joined the main cast two seasons later and then never left. 12 Luke Hobbs and Deckard Shaw The Fast and Furious franchise took a break from their overcooked naming conventions and gave Jason Statham and The Rock their own buddy comedy spin-off, Hobbs & Shaw, in 2019. 11 Aldous Snow Russell Brand played, in retrospect, a remarkably watered-down version of himself in 2008s Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and reprised the dirtbag role as the lead in 2010s Get Him to the Greek. Advertisement Advertisement 10 Peacemaker James Gunn started working on this John Cena-led spin-off of The Suicide Squad while that film was still in development. The first season of Peacemaker got solid enough viewership that a second season is about to drop, and a spin-off of the spin-off, called Waller, is currently in development. 9 Saul Goodman Tossing comedian Bob Odenkirk into the gritty, dusty, pallid crime drama Breaking Bad sounded like stunt casting at first, but he turned out to be so good at blending comedy with drama that he got his own wildly popular, six-season spin-off, Better Call Saul. Advertisement 8 Pete and Debbie Leslie Mann and Paul Rudd had such complicated, cheeky chemistry in Knocked Up that Judd Apatow gave them their own sort-of sequel. This Is 40 follows the couple as they navigate love and marriage while turning the ancient age of 40. Advertisement 7 Evan Baxter The antagonist of Bruce Almighty became a surprisingly popular character, largely thanks to that scene where Steve Carell spouts gibberish on-air. There was a seven-studio bidding war for a scripted titled The Passion of the Ark, and Sony and Universal recognized it as the perfect vehicle for a Carell spin-off. They jointly turned it into Evan Almighty. Advertisement 6 Jesus Quintana John Turturro took it upon himself to write, direct and star in a de facto sequel to The Big Lebowski, called The Jesus Rolls, over two decades after the cult hit came out. The Coen Brothers werent involved in the production, other than granting permission for Turturro to reprise the character, and the movie flopped big time. 5 Machete Only Danny Trejo could helm a movie thats simultaneously a spin-off of Spy Kids and Grindhouse. He played a character named Machete in 2001s Spy Kids, and that character was then the star of a fake movie trailer released as promo for 2007s Grindhouse. They made it real in 2010s Machete and 2013s Machete Kills. Advertisement 4 The Scorpion King The Rock was such a stand-out as the bad guy in 2001s The Mummy Returns that they immediately turned around a Rock-centric prequel, 2002s The Scorpion King. It had a record opening in theaters, which was enough to make producers ignore the 40-percent Rotten Tomatoes score and pump out four more Scorpion King movies. Advertisement 3 The Minions The little squeaky toy freaks that were designed in a marketing lab memed their way from sidekick in 2010s Despicable Me to the subject of a two-part prequel series, 2015s Minions and 2022s Minions: The Rise of Gru. Not to mention their short films, web series and two distinct holiday specials. Advertisement 2 The Lone Gunmen The ironically named trio served as comic relief in The X-Files, providing conspiracy theorist takes that have become all too common in real life. They were popular enough to get their own 13-episode spin-off in 2001. After tonights new episode of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, The Gang Gets Ready for Prime Time, Glenn Howerton may just break the shows dreaded Emmys curse though his own affliction may yet last for a thousand years. In the newest installment of Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 17, the show took a good, hard look at its own marketability among Middle Americans and found itself severely lacking. As established in last weeks episode, Overage Drinking: A National Concern, Frank Reynolds is now the star of The Golden Bachelor, and, in preparation for the all-important family visit that the Gang assumes will take the popular reality show to Paddys Pub, Dennis demands that everyone submit themselves to round after round of test screenings in front of a focus group until finally we land on the most perfect versions of ourselves that will appear to the widest possible audiences and offend no one. That is how you make great art! Don't Miss The greatest artistic achievement of The Gang Gets Ready for Prime Time comes at the end of the episode when, unsatisfied with the performance of both his peers and his test audience, Dennis delivers a stirring speech that explains why he needs his appearance on The Golden Bachelor to be perfect almost as much as he needs the blood of virgins. When the first rehearsal for the family visit garners poor test scores for Dennis and his old face, the Golden God responds by stretching out his skin with some face tape that gives him a look not unlike a Romanian Count who has been alive/undead since the 15th century. With each repetition of the scene, The Gang strays further and further from Dennis vision for the Golden Bachelor appearance that never came, and the audience becomes more and more frightened by his increasingly sinister appearance. Advertisement Finally, Dennis breaks down and explains to everyone exactly why he needs to pop on the mass-appeal reality show after the humiliation he suffered in the It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 10 episode The Gang Goes on Family Fight, he cannot risk being misrepresented on low-stakes television again. Sadly for the Five Star Man, the test audience doesnt respond as positively as he instructed, and all the rehearsals were for naught, since Frank had already recast the familys roles on The Golden Bachelor. However, for one long, slow scene, we got to see Howerton stretch his acting muscles as far as Dennis stretched his face, and we approached the very core of Dennis psyche in arguably his most (willingly) vulnerable moment in It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia history. While we dont hold out any hope that the idiot savages of the Emmy voting ranks will ever do right by Always Sunny, if they were to finally honor the greatest sitcom on television, tonight would be their cue to finally give the series, and Howerton, their flowers. Advertisement Just be sure that there isnt any garlic hiding among the roses. Anyone holding their breath that the four surviving members of Monty Python are going to reunite for a new project is probably going to die of oxygen deprivation at this point. As author and podcaster Kieran Maguire recently pointed out on social media, it seems as though the iconic troupes film production company, Python (Monty) Pictures Limited, has a strike-off notice on a U.K. government website, signalling that the company is in the process of dissolving and will soon be no more. This is obviously sad news for fans to hear, considering that the company was incorporated more than five decades ago, in 1973, shortly before the Pythons released their first-ever original feature film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. And the company has also been involved with more recent projects too, such as the 2014 documentary Monty Python: The Meaning of Live, which documented the making of their O2 reunion concert. Don't Miss News of Python (Monty) Pictures Limiteds apparent demise sparked countless Dead Parrot references, with fans hoping that the company was merely resting. But Eric Idle, who is still listed as one of the companys directors, clarified that its definitely dead, confusingly adding that the parrot is to blame. Its unclear exactly what Idle meant by that last statement, but he has been very critical of the Pythons business affairs in recent years, partly blaming the brands current manager Holly Gilliam for his current financial problems. So by suggesting that the parrot is to blame, presumably hes using the Dead Parrot analogy to suggest that the Python organization is to blame for the death of their longtime production company. Advertisement Then again, maybe blaming the Parrot is a more specific dig at Idles frenemy John Cleese, who was, of course, the guy who complained about receiving a deceased pet in the classic sketch. Advertisement This isnt the first Python business decision that Idle has bemoaned on social media lately. Last month he revealed that he was kept out of the loop about the U.K.s new line of Royal Mail Monty Python stamps, adding that it would have been nice to have been told earlier. Advertisement In fairness to Idle, it would suck to only learn that your likeness is on a postage stamp after people are already mailing letters with your face on it. Any amount of crack you are picturing, Sheen was doing more than that Very few celebrity breakdowns have compared to what Charlie Sheen inflicted on himself and the general public, particularly between 2009 and 2015. He got himself fired from Two and a Half Men, went on a public tour defined by the slogan #winning and being inebriated and ruined a handful of lives during the height of his addiction. With the benefit of 14 years somewhat softening the extreme behavior, it might seem like what Sheen got up to in the 2010s wasnt that big of a deal. But with a new Netflix documentary, aka Charlie Sheen, slated to air on September 10th, theres no doubt that the public will begin extensively rehashing the very big deal that was Sheens absolutely out-of-control run while in the depths of his substance abuse. The trailer, which was released on September 13th, offers a first look at the film from director Andrew Prezi. Charlie Sheen as youve never seen him finally leaves it all on the table, and revisits the very public peaks and valleys of his life with humor, heart and jaw-dropping candor, the documentarys description reads. Don't Miss Just from the trailer, we can see that theres interviews with Denise Richards, Heidi Fleiss, Jon Cryer, Sean Penn, Ramon Estevez, Brooke Mueller, Chris Tucker, Sheens former drug dealer and Sheen himself. These appearances only cover a small amount of the chaos from Sheens life. But if these soundbites are anything to go by, aka Charlie Sheen will leave nothing out. Here are the wildest quotes from the newly released trailer. Advertisement Charlie is a crybaby pussy bitch. Heidi Fleiss He testified against me, and I went to jail. Heidi Fleiss He kept saying, No, no, no. Im in the hospital now, but next week Ill be ready for the show. Jon Cryer When Charlie said that he was smoking seven gram rocks, he was smoking seven gram rocks. Charlies drug dealer The stuff that I plan on sharing, I had made a sacred vow to only reveal to a therapist. Sheen It could be easy to assume that this is a case of theyre putting everything juicy in the trailer, but only if you are unfamiliar with the tabloid coverage of Sheens life. A quick-ish summary: The son of actor Martin Sheen, Charlie was an 1980s heartthrob, and starred in the Oscar winning film Platoon in 1986. He testified against Fleiss, a big-time madam to Hollywood whose services he utilized, in the 1990s. Throughout the 90s, he was also arrested for assault and in and out of rehab. During the early aughts, he divorced from Denise Richards, who accused him of physical and verbal abuse, and was later accused of abusing his wife Brooke Mueller. By 2010, Sheen was in and out of hospitals. It was in February 2011 during a Today Show interview that he claimed didnt need Alcoholics Anonymous because it was "written for normal people, people that arent special, people that dont have tiger blood, you know, Adonis DNA." Advertisement Throughout the next few years, Sheen would get numerous opportunities to return to television while getting arrested for assault and publicly threatening his ex-wives. Then, in 2015, he went on the Today Show again, this time to reveal that he was HIV positive. Im here to admit that I am, in fact, HIV positive, Sheen said. Again, this summary is just scraping the surface; the two-part documentary will likely get into even further detail. And if the trailer is any indication, it wont be sanitizing a thing. 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. Donald Trump is able to do what no other world leader, no other man or woman on the planet, can dream of achieving. He alone has the power to drag Russias dictator Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table. And he alone has the diplomatic leverage necessary to force an end to the war in Ukraine. There are many on the Left who will decry him for doing it, who will condemn any peace settlement simply because it is Trump who brings it about. To them, everything Trump does is abhorrent, and that includes stopping wars. But the wider world, which has felt itself on the brink of global conflagration in the past few months, should feel profoundly grateful to the US president. In his second term at the White House, he is proving the most effective American leader since Ronald Reagan ended the Cold War and set in train the collapse of the Soviet Union. Trump is to meet Putin for talks in Alaska on Friday I write from Anchorage where history is unfolding before our eyes and if he can strong-arm the Russian dictator into halting his slow annexation of Ukraine, which has claimed an estimated 350,000 lives with more than million combatants and civilians wounded, he will deserve the worlds gratitude. European leaders warned on a call with the President yesterday that the territorial integrity of Ukraines borders must be respected. But empty rhetoric from EU capitals will achieve nothing. Moscow has no regard at all for the European Union. Putin respects only one thing: strength. And Trump has demonstrated that repeatedly this year, both in military and economic terms. In his second term at the White House, Donald Trump is proving the most effective American leader since Ronald Reagan, says Nile Gardiner His unilateral decision to wipe out Irans nuclear programme with a bunker-busting bomb assault in June was a dramatic display of US power. Iran has been defanged, and the planet is safer for it. Moscow took note. He has also shown a repeated determination to douse local conflicts. Most significantly, his intervention obliged India and Pakistan to back down from a renewed border dispute in May after military strikes between the two nuclear-armed countries. He also stepped in to quell tensions between Serbia and Kosovo. And in June, the foreign ministers of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo signed a peace agreement brokered by Trump to end their deadly, nearly 30-year conflict. Another US-backed peace deal was signed this month by Armenia and Azerbaijan which involved the creation of a profitable trade link the Trump corridor between the two nations. Ignorant Left-wing critics mock Trump for his supposedly undisguised ambition to earn the Nobel peace prize, and his self-appointed title of Peacemaker-in-chief. His foreign policy is motivated by vanity, they claim. I dont believe that is true. He deplores the loss of human life, as we have seen from his angry social media posts condemning Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities. But he also believes in protecting Americas national security and economic interests, and his instincts tell him this is best done through peace a peace achieved by strength. The brazen hypocrisy of those who taunt him about the Nobel prize is ugly to witness. These are the same voices from the Left who are pleading for peace in the Middle East. Are they really so shallow that they care about human lives only when these can be saved by politicians of their own stripe? Barack Obama was awarded a Nobel peace prize in his first year as president, when his foreign policy had achieved nothing. Seven years later, he had still done nothing to merit it. Joe Biden managed less than nothing. Its hard to escape the conclusion that Bidens weakness emboldened Putin to attack Ukraine. Russia did not count on the doggedness of Ukrainian resistance, nor the way that Brexit Britain under Boris Johnson would rally European opposition to Putins so-called special operation. But Putin did gauge Bidens lack of resolve correctly. The response from Washington was craven. Nothing about America under Trump can justly be called craven. Nato too has rediscovered its backbone. For more than 30 years, as the Soviet threat receded, European countries were content to be freeloaders under US protection. Bloated welfare state provision was funded by money saved on defence. Trump has not fully reversed that state of affairs, but he has begun to change it. The Nato summit in June was a triumph for his deal-making, as Americas allies reached a reluctant decision to invest 5 per cent of GDP in defence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday warned Donald Trump that Putin was 'bluffing' about his desire to end the war Putin knows Natos military might far outguns anything his war-ravaged country can muster. Natos long-range ballistic missiles, its phenomenal powers of intelligence gathering, its utter supremacy in air power and space communications, and above all its vast array of nuclear weapons, guarantee that Russia can never be victorious in a global conflict with the West. Of course Nato is a defensive alliance but Putin dare not provoke it now. The threat of a Russian invasion of the Baltic states, for example, while still real, has receded since Trump took office in January. What Putin fears most, though, is not only American military power but its economic might. Trump has sent shockwaves through the global financial system by imposing, lifting and reapplying tariffs. Most observers assumed he was doing this largely as leverage to achieve better trade deals. But we are also increasingly seeing the strategic application of tariffs and economic pressure against Americas adversaries. They are the economys equivalent of nuclear weapons, capable of bringing an enemy to his knees almost overnight. Russia is already subject to stiff sanctions. But these are not a complete financial stranglehold. Billions of roubles still flow into the country as oil and gas flow out. India and China are its biggest customers. And despite all the Wests condemnation of the Ukraine invasion, Europe also remains one of the major markets for Russian fossil fuels. Those markets will dry up overnight if Trump chooses. He can tell China, India and Europe to cease doing business with Russia, or face unprecedented tariffs. Self-interest will force them to comply. As Trump and Putin meet this week, the worlds most powerful man and leader of the free world will be facing one of the most dangerous and evil dictators on the planet. The US president will need to prove himself a deal-maker as never before. But if anyone can end the Ukraine war and bring peace to Europes eastern border, it is Donald Trump. Farah Faizal, 28, from Malaysia, shared dramatic before and after photos A woman has shared how drastically her face changed after she developed severe cystic acne and her facial lines deepened while she was pregnant. Farah Faizal, a marketing manager, from Malaysia, posted two unfiltered photographs of herself side-by-side on X, formerly Twitter, to show how her face had changed '100 per cent' before and after falling pregnant. In one photo, Farah had clear skin and rosy cheeks, but in the other, her whole face appeared red and covered in large bumps that appeared to be cystic acne. The shape of her nose had also changed significantly, appearing much bigger than before, and she had deep lines along her cheeks and nose, as well as on her forehead. Farah wrote in May that, while she was grateful not to have experienced pregnancy sickness, she first started realising her skin was starting to change about two months into the pregnancy. Acne began appearing on her face in the form of pustules and her skin became red, as though she has been sunburned. Her nose also started to swell as she progressed in her pregnancy, which was her second. 'Then slowly my smile lines became deeper and my face started to look like that of an old person,' Farah continued. Farah Faizal, 28, shared how pregnancy hormones dramatically affected her face, as prior to her pregnancy (pictured) she had clear and smooth skin 'I realised there were lines appearing on my forehead and between my eyebrows, and they were getting deeper and more kept appearing. The closer to my due date I got, the worse it became.' She shared a close-up photograph of the deep lines on her forehead, which also showed how her skin was covered in acne and bumps - a far cry from the clear, smooth skin she had been used to. While her husband reassured her that the changes were due to pregnancy hormones and therefore temporary, Farah admitted that she cried throughout the nine months of her pregnancy. Later in her thread, she revealed that she broke down at one point and asked her friend: 'Why are other pregnant women so beautiful? Just glowing? Why am I the only one who has been affected like this?' 'I asked this because I saw influencers who looked simply beautiful while they were pregnant. 'I wasn't sad but I did feel insecure. My husband kept reassuring me that it was fine and only temporary, and he would always encourage and compliment me. 'He said I was still beautiful in his eyes and not to think of anything untoward.' Farah also credited her best friend who would give her words of encouragement and emboldened her to share her story on social media. But she shared a photograph (pictured) in May to show how much her face had changed, as she developed large bumps from cystic acne, red skin and deep lines 'Don't think that pregnancy is easy, different people have different experiences,' she added. Farah had some additional advice for men: 'So appreciate your wife, as she has sacrificed her body to give birth to your child. Don't say an epidural is a 'cheat code'. Sharing her story with Malaysian media, Farah said she wanted to raise awareness about the side of pregnancy that isn't spoken about as often. She told Sinar Daily: 'I wish more people understood that pregnancy isn't just about the cute bump and baby kicks. 'There are so many changes - physical, emotional and mental - that we go through. Every woman's experience is different and all of them deserve to be acknowledged.' Farah gave birth to her baby in July and has since told SAYS.com that her skin is now slowly healing one month post-partum. 'I'm slowly regaining my features. It has been a month since I gave birth and I'm in recovery mode. I've also started monthly laser treatments to help my skin heal and improve.' While the change in Farah's appearance was shocking, it may not be as unusual as many people think. Farah shared several photographs to show how different she looked before falling pregnant While some tout the benefits of the famous 'pregnancy glow', women from all over the world have recently started sharing the extraordinary changes they saw in their faces while pregnant. Dubbing the term 'pregnancy face', thousands of women on social media have shared their 'before' and 'after' photographs of becoming mothers, in videos poking fun at their own transformations. Women suffering with the affliction complain of having extra pigmentation, puffy eyes, loss of definition in their face, and enlarged noses. According to doctors, much of what those online describe is a result of water retention, a commonly reported side-effect among expectant mothers. The NHS website cites swelling as typically occurring in pregnant women, particularly in lower parts of the body such as the legs, ankles and feet. Effects can appear particularly pronounced 'if the weather is hot or you have been standing a lot.' 'Swelling is caused by your body holding more water than usual when you're pregnant,' the website reads. Healthcare providers suggest remedying symptoms by avoiding standing for long periods of time, and resting with feet up as much as possible. Since giving birth in July, the Malaysian marketing manager told local media that her skin is slowly recovering Drinking water, though seemingly counter-productive, can also reduce water retention, the NHS advises. Symptoms of water retention were further exacerbated by pre-eclampsia, a serious condition characterised by high blood pressure and having protein in the urine. The condition can prove fatal if not properly treated. Changes to hormones during pregnancy can also bring out skin conditions including acne, puffiness, dark spots, sensitivity or redness, say experts at Simple Skincare. Some mothers also reported having 'pregnancy nose', in which their noses ballooned while they were carrying their children. 'Pregnancy nose' is believed to result from an increase in hormones, which leads to the dilation of blood vessels and creates more blood flow to certain areas of the body. This increase in size is usually only temporary and most women find their noses return to their normal size a few weeks after delivery A middle-aged American medical professional has revealed the one simple habit that he wished he'd started doing years earlier. Dr Mark Burhenne, a family dentist and creator of the online series Ask the Dentist, recently shared that taking magnesium was his essential daily health tip. The medical expert, who specialises in functional dentistry and preventative healthcare, made his magnesium declaration on Instagram, sharing the message to his 849,000 followers. According to Australian government health website HealthDirect, 'magnesium is a mineral that is essential for healthy muscles, nerves, bones and blood sugar levels'. 'Magnesium is needed for many processes in the body,' the Australian national health advice service explains. 'Magnesium is important for muscles and nerves to work properly, to keep blood sugar and blood pressure at the right level [and] to make proteins, bone and DNA (genetic material).' 'I am 66 years old. Something I wish I knew in my 30s and 40s daily magnesium is one of your highest ROI habits for your brain, heart, muscles, sleep, and yes even your smile,' Dr Burhenne said. The dentist's championing of magnesium was further explained in an extended caption accompanying the video. American dentist Dr Mark Burhenne recently shared a viral Instagram post that explained why taking magnesium was his essential daily health tip In the caption, the doctor offered five key explanations for why our bodies required additional magnesium - starting with the claim that 'modern life is basically a magnesium thief'. To this point, Dr Burhenne explained that processed food, stress, coffee, alcohol and even particular workouts deplete our bodies magnesium levels. 'Translation: most of us are walking around subclinically deficient, even if we're eating 'well',' he wrote. The next argument offered by The 8-Hour Sleep Paradox author was that 'your sleep depends on it'. 'Magnesium helps your brain make melatonin and keeps your nervous system from staying in 'fight-or-flight' mode,' he said. As a dentist, Dr Burhenne added that this was something that he'd noticed in the oral health of his patients. 'I've seen patients go from restless, jaw-clenching, grinding-insomniacs to 'I slept through the night for the first time in years' - just from getting magnesium right,' he claimed. Dr Burhenne's next point related to the potential benefits of the mineral for the 'heart and blood vessels'. Dr Mark Burhenne's recent Instagram post shared to his 849,000 online followers explained five key reasons why he championed magnesium The dentist said he had observed several oral health benefits that could result from 'getting magnesium right' 'Magnesium keeps blood pressure in check and prevents arterial stiffness,' he wrote. 'The heart is a muscle, and magnesium is the mineral that makes muscles relax after they contract. If calcium is the 'gas pedal', magnesium is the "brake". You need both - but most people are way over on the calcium side.' His fourth argument in favour of magnesium saw the dentist once again return to the potential benefits for 'teeth and gums'. 'Magnesium helps regulate calcium placement - which means it helps keep calcium in your bones and teeth and out of soft tissues like arteries,' he wrote. 'It's also essential for activating vitamin D (which in turn affects enamel remineralisation and immune defence in the mouth).' Dr Burhenne's final point was that 'magnesium is basically the body's 'calm-down' mineral.' 'You need it for over 300 enzymatic reactions - and many of those are about relaxation: relaxing muscles, calming nerves, stabilizing mood, even helping your heart maintain a steady rhythm,' he wrote. 'If you're low on it, you're more prone to anxiety, poor sleep, muscle cramps, and stress overload. Australian government health website HealthDirect provided a list of foods that are naturally high in magnesium, including 'green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds and wholegrains'. 'I never rely on food for getting optimal amounts of magnesium - not with depleted soil, modern environment and modern lifestyle,' the doctor concluded. HealthDirect explains that the amount of magnesium your body needs depends on your age, sex and stage of life. A table on their website suggests 31 to 50-year-old men require 420 milligrams, while women in the same age group require 320 milligrams. Foods that are naturally high in magnesium include green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds and wholegrains. Dr Burhenne's thoughts on magnesium echoed those of another American doctor, Dr Myro Figura. In June 2025, the California-based anaesthesiologist espoused the anxiety-busting and sleep-inducing benefits of a special type of magnesium called magnesium glycinate, heralding it as the possible answer to sleepless nights. In an Instagram video viewed over 942,000 times, Dr Figura claimed that not only does magnesium glycinate improve sleep, but it could enhance vitamin D absorption, which is beneficial for bone health. Trump warns Russia of "very severe consequences" if ceasefire is rejected Xinhua) 13:13, August 14, 2025 WASHINGTON, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned that Russia would face "very severe consequences" if President Vladimir Putin refuses to agree to a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine during their upcoming meeting. After a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and several European leaders, Trump said that if his talks with Putin go smoothly, he hopes to hold a trilateral meeting with Putin and Zelensky in the near future. Earlier in the day, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that Washington could tighten sanctions on Moscow if the Trump-Putin talks fail to produce results. The one-on-one meeting between Trump and Putin is scheduled for Friday in Anchorage, the largest city in the U.S. state of Alaska. Trump described the upcoming talks as a "feel-out meeting." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) A Norwegian model has revealed why she fled her glamorous life in the fashion industry to live in the African desert after she was robbed at gunpoint as a teenager. In the first episode of the new series of New Lives in the Wild - airing at 9pm on Thursday - Ben Fogle travelled to Botswana to meet Norwegian former model Aleksandra Orbeck Nilssen, a 34-year-old, also a conservationist and bush guide, and her husband Ralph Bousfield. Aleksandra, moved to Africa in her late teens after a harrowing near-death experience in New York left her left her yearning for a life outside city confines, and initially lived in Namibia. She moved to Botswana in early 2025 and had only been living there a number of months when Ben arrived to visit her 'Wisdom Academy' for the indigenous Ju'/hoansi people. Aleks fondly describes Ralph as 'the most niche husband in the world' and lives with him at the main lodge in the safari camp he runs 'when he is around'. When he's not, she lives at the academy with the indigenous people. 'I'm on a mission, that doesn't just stop because I fall in love', she explained. 'I told him fairly early on that I'm not the kind of person who grows trees under the canopy of someone else's forest - I like to create adjacent forests and they can feed each other.' A Norwegian model has opened up about how she fled her glamorous life in the fashion industry to live in African desert after she was robbed at gun point aged 18. Aleksandra Orbeck Nilssen pictured In the first episode Ben Fogle's Channel 5 show, New Lives in the Wild - airing at 9pm on Thursday - Aleksandra Orbeck Nilssen, revealed how one harrowing near-death experience left her yearning for a life outside city confines. Pictured with Ben Fogle Aleks first abandoned her Nordic roots to move to Africa 20 years ago after a night in New York changed her life forever. Having been scouted as a model as a teenager, Aleks spent a number of years working in the fashion industry, eventually settling in the Big Apple. 'As a young model I travelled the world in a very short time. I didn't realise it would be so lonely, I was extremely unhappy,' she said, revealing the reason she found herself living in the city. Recalling the harrowing attack that altered the trajectory of her life, she said: 'I was walking home from a film set late at night. I heard these catcalls, which is quite common in New York, so I just carried on walking. 'Then they grabbed me and wanted to get money from me. While I am digging through my bag looking for something, I suddenly feel something kiss my forehead. 'That was a gun and so I was held at gunpoint. I went from having so much control, then this moment someone takes away all these control. 'When they realised I didn't have anything, they just said 'Move' and left. I went back to my flat and didn't really know what to do. 'It felt like it was a universal b*tch slap. And the fact that he said move, it felt like an instruction. 'I said to myself I'm going to spin the globe and if my finger lands in the ocean I'll go on a gap year. And if it lands on Norway I can spin again. And if it lands on a country I'll go there, unless there's a civil war. And it was Namibia.' During the first episode of the new series, Ben visited Aleks in Botswana, a vast nation in Southern Africa, 70 per cent of which is thought to belong to desert. The country has a population of just two million, most of which reside in the cities, with the rural deserts scarcely populated by humans. 'Aleks in originally from Norway and you couldn't get two more contrasting countries,' said Fogle. At the time of filming, Aleks had only been in Botswana a number of months, but was already well established within the local community where she now works. Aleks decided to abandon her Nordic roots 20 years ago after a night in New York changed her life forever Having been scouted as a model aged just a teenager, Aleks spent a number of years travelling the world via the fashion industry, eventually settling in the Big Apple After arriving in Botswana, Aleks set up the Wisdom Academy, a new project which aims to teach ancient practices to the younger generation. She described the academy as a 'sanctuary for knowledge and wisdom' of the local community. 'It is here to guide the future so it's not about preserving to keep it a place a the past. It's not about the past, it's a think tank for the future where we can find ways to merge creativity, innovation, new ideas and mix that with the old, ancient wisdom.' Many areas of Southern Africa are impacted by new laws that have prohibited indigenous communities from hunting and gathering, restrictions have posed immense difficulties for local communities. Aleks explained: 'They're not allowed to hunt and gather anymore. But imagine that's your life purpose, then it's taken away. They need a place and a platform where they can actually get paid to be the guardians of nature that they have been for hundreds and thousands of years.' Aleks divides her time between living and working at the academy, and living with her husband, Ralph Bousfield in his safari lodge, located a 15 minute drive from the main camp. It is within the Ralph's safari grounds that the academy was built. As well as supplying water to their camp, it also gives food and employment through bush guides visiting tourists. In February earlier this year, the model arrived in Botswana for a job where she met fellow bush guide, Ralph, who was raised in Botswana. She first began modelling as a teenager, launching a career at the mere age of just 13 thanks to her unique Scandinavian beauty. Pictured with her husband, Ralph Bousfield The two quickly fell in love and married four months later. Aleks fondly described him as 'the most niche husband in the world'. Ralph lives nearby at 'Jacks camp', where Aleks spends her time when her husband is around. 'But if he's not there, I live with them here.' Though she insisted that she has never in her life 'moved for anyone', and has created the camp because she has 'a job to do on this planet'. She speaks the local language well. 'But I don't think you can ever be fluent. You know, you go to a new place and you learn new words.' At the academy, she was filmed working to help build pathways and dragging thorn bushes to shield the community from lions. During the visit, Ben assisted the tribe in helping to build defences against the elements - including attacks from lions. 'Desert lions are always a bit more feisty because life in the desert is hard, the Kalahari kind of hates you,' Aleks said. She first began modelling as a teenager, launching a career at the mere age of just 13 thanks to her unique Scandinavian beauty. Pictured with indigenous communities Reflecting on his visit, he said: 'I wasn't expecting to find so many people here. I was just anticipating find a Norwegian woman living in the wilds of Botswana and instead I've found a Norwegian woman and her extended family.' The academy, where she splits her time, has to travel to access water and currently has no electricity - though they hope to acquire some solar panels in the future. 'I don't think it will change things drastically for me,' the model, who has lived remotely in parts of Africa for a number of years, said. The academy, where she splits her time, has to travel to access water and currently has no electricity - though they hope to accumulate some solar panels in the future. Near where Aleks lives in the rural community, there is a tourist camp which helps provide financial support to the indigenous people. 'Tourism should pay for nature,' she said, adding that tourism is a 'renewable energy'. 'This is our classroom,' she told Ben. 'Our main aim is to pass on our knowledge to the younger generation.' Asked by the presenter why she made it her mission to help people in Botswana, she said: 'I think it's so important to focus on what we can do something about, instead of who is the person who should be allowed to do something about something. 'If every man is for himself, we're not going to have a very sustainable future,' she said. Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild airs at 9pm on Channel 5 Having grow up just outside of Oslo, where she enjoyed a childhood fully immersed in the outdoors, Aleks has always had a taste for adventure Before her life in Africa, Aleks began modelled as a teenager, launching a successful career at the mere age of just 13 thanks to her unique Scandinavian beauty. She initially resisted the career, having been stopped in the street on a number of occasions by scouters, but was eventually persuaded after a friend of hers sent a picture of her to an agency. 'All of a sudden I got this phone call asking me to do Oslo fashion week. At this stage, I was 13 and a half.' For her next job, she headed to New York where she was part of her first fashion campaign for Ford aged just 14. Despite never having a fascination for the fashion world, Aleks was desperate to do anything to get her 'out of Norway'. 'I was so determined, it was like I had this internal compass,' she said. Her career enabled her to travel the world 'in a very short space of time', a venture that she found 'lonely'. Having grown up just outside of Oslo, where she enjoyed a childhood fully immersed in the outdoors, Aleks has always had a taste for adventure. 'I grew up with forest behind my house and parents that dragged us into nature in any free time possible,' she said. Then, at the age of 18, she few to Namibia to an animal sanctuary where a two week planned trip turned out into a 13-year stay. From there, she continued to pursue her modelling career, appearing on the cover of countless glossy magazines, including Elle and Style, all the while embracing life in Africa and training as a bush guide alongside. 'I decided to let go of my life in New York and take the bold leap and went all in,' she said. 'Two weeks later I was on the plane. I had a weird feeling like roots were growing out of my feet. When I arrived it was like 'I'm home, but I don't know why'. I was offered a job so I took a bold leap and went all in. 'I met the tribe that I have now been working with for 14 years and realised I had to work with them.' At 20, she set up an organisation to help support the tribe with whom she lived with in Africa. The exchange has been mutually beneficial though. Aleks said the indigenous people of Namibia 'completely saved me'. 'They've brought nature to life around me. Could you get a better gift than that?' Reflecting on her conversation with Aleks, Ben said: 'I've always got this sense that some of us aren't born where we feel we belong. It's that sense of belonging that some people spend their life searching for. 'Few of the lucky ones - in this case Aleks - find it. 'She has had what people think will bring happiness: beauty, mind, money, travel, glitz and glamour. But none have brought her the happiness she has found here in the desert.' Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild airs tonight at 9pm on Channel 5. The owner of a popular London restaurant has claimed that 'insufferable' and 'entitled' customers are costing him 1,000 a week in losses. Ferhat Dirik, owner of Mangal 2 in Hackney, London, shared a newsletter earlier this month outlining a change in customer habits that's costing his Turkish restaurant a pretty penny. In the post, titled 'Manners', the owner wrote, 'What happened? When did an unbearable percentage of the general dining public become such insufferable, entitled, unforgiving p****? 'At which point did it become socially acceptable for the hospitality industry to become the sponge which soaks all the nation's vomit; its punching bag?' Dirik, who has worked in the family-run restaurant for 25 years, went on to explain the negative customer behaviour patterns that he's spotted since he first started out on the dining floor at 14. Among them was the claim that people are increasingly booking for a given number and then arriving in a smaller party size, which in turn can cost his business 1,000 a week, according to Metro. The father-of-two explained, 'Customers will book a table for, say seven people, and turn up as a four. There'll be no correspondence prior to notify the restaurant, no warning. 'They'll arrive and very casually say 'Oh, three people dropped out, sorry.' M********, that's not good enough. Ferhat Dirik (pictured left), owner of London's Mangal II, has claimed that 'entitled' customers are costing him 1,000 a week Those two extra tables we cojoined, which could accommodate up to four more people, they've now just gone to waste. 'Our customers spend an average of 65 per person here, you do the math. That's 195 immediately down the drain, and a potential 260 had we known in advance and made the table/s available to book online to fill up prime location on a busy Friday night. 'If you make a commitment with your circle to dine somewhere, make sure it's with people you trust to not be flaky. 'If something comes up and some can't make it, let the restaurant know. It takes a single phone call/email. It's rude, it's inconsiderate, it's financially damaging, and frankly, it'll be the death of hospitality.' It's an occurrence that is costing the Mangal 2 owner a fair buck, which can reportedly reach heights of 1,000 per week. Elsewhere in the post, the owner added five other 'worrying' trends that he's spotted in recent times, including a rise in last-minute cancellations, 'unforgiving' reviews, more loud customers, and 'many allergens' to cater for. He told Metro, 'There is a mindset of wanting to hate wherever they eat. Obviously as a service worker you want to rectify it, but there is such a combative attitude. 'A table that gets served their main before they do, would not have had starters or a simpler dish to prepare. The restaurant owner also noted that people tend to be louder when dining out and aren't afraid of leaving unforgiving reviews 'And if they arrive and their table isn't ready? Often the customers themselves are early, and we spend the rest of the shift trying to make up for the 'bad' start.' Award-winning Mangal 2 is a known and celebrated restaurant in the area, and has been a staple for surrounding communities since it's 1994 opening. It comes after two Michelin-starred Indian restaurant Gymkhana introduced a new rule which slaps an 100 fee on every person in a dining party before they've even walked through the door. The controversial mandate, introduced by the celeb hotspot restaurant in November, mandates that every guest visiting the site must pay the deposit of 100 before arriving - which then becomes their minimum spend for the evening. It's a rule that has now been replicated by eateries across the capital as the hospitality industry cracks down on no-shows, last minute cancellations, reservation resale websites and 'reservation squatting'. According to Chris D'Sylva - the owner of Michelin-starred Dorian, in Notting Hill - there's been an uptick in the number of people who block up tables at multiple restaurants and then only show up for one reservation. As a result, Mr D'Sylva told the Financial Times, he has been forced to impose a 'slightly punitive' 25 deposit that also helps ward off clout-chasing food influencers. 'It's something to drive away influencers that come and all they want to do is say that they were there and get the benefit of the social currency and post on their Instagram to the detriment of the business,' he told the newspaper. In the blog post, titled 'Manners', the father-of-two revealed six changes in customer habits that he's noticed since he first started out But collab-hungry influencers - looking to barter social media exposure for free food and drinks - are just as bad as bots that snap up the best tables so they can later be 'scalped' to the highest bidder, said Matt Tucker, the head of restaurant reservation platform Tock. Three-figure minimum spend requirements have also begun to feature on Tock's website - with diners looking to enjoy the Omakase experience at The Araki in Mayfair have to fork over 310 per head in advance of their meal. But, Mr Tucker added, the idea isn't to 'gouge the guests or the customer in any way'. 'This is just saying, 'we are making a contract between the two of us that you're going to show up and I'm going to provide you the best meal, the best service',' he continued. Another restaurant and nightlife booking site Dorsia levies a 50 - 150 minimum spend charge for all the London eateries on its platform. Its founder Marc Lotenberg revealed these amounts were calculated by 'pricing algorithms' based on average spends at the restaurant during different dining slots. But whether it's because of 'reservation-squatters', bots, content creators, or the restaurant industry's soaring costs - with rent, wages, and food prices all sky-rocketing - one thing is for sure - dining out in London often means dropping serious cash. Royal watchers might have expected Buckingham Palace to celebrate Princess Anne's 75th birthday with a gun salute, the release of an official photograph or an equestrian event. What they definitely didn't expect was the palace to mark Friday's milestone by announcing that King Charles's sister had two secret stepchildren. Yet, remarkably, that is exactly what did happen when the official royal website published an article on Wednesday under the headline '75 facts about the Princess Royal'. The 14th 'fact' was that 'Her Royal Highness also has two stepchildren from her second marriage to Sir Timothy Laurence, Tom and Amy Laurence'. In fact, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, 70, had never married before he exchanged vows with the princess at Crathie Kirk, near Balmoral, in 1992 and does not have any children, let alone ones named Tom and Amy. Anne has two children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, with her first husband, Mark Phillips. They divorced in 1992 after 19 years of marriage. It's not clear who first spotted the glaring error on the royal website but the article had been taken down by Wednesday evening. On Thursday, there was a notice on the site stating: 'The requested page could not be found.' A new portrait of Princess Anne has been released in time for her birthday The official royal website published an article on Wednesday under the headline '75 facts about the Princess Royal'. Pictured: Princess Anne in June 2025 The 14th 'fact' was that 'Her Royal Highness also has two stepchildren from her second marriage to Sir Timothy Laurence, Tom and Amy Laurence'. Pictured: Princess Anne with her husband Sir Tim Laurence Anne has two children, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall, with her first husband, Mark Phillips. Pictured: Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips attend the Tusk Ball 2022 at the Natural History Museum in honour of African conservation on May 19, 2022 Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne following the birth of Peter Phillips, who Anne decided would not be given a title The mistake seems to have been made by a member of staff using incorrect information published in an article online by Woman & Home magazine in 2023. There are suspicions that Artificial Intelligence software, such as ChatGPT, may have been used to write the Woman & Home article. A palace source told the Daily Mail Thursday: 'The facts were checked, and that one was a late addition, sourced from a reputable publication online, which unfortunately wasn't put back through the checking process. There was no AI sourcing on our part.' Social media users were quick to spot the mistake, with one commenting: 'Tom and Amy Laurence? Either I've gone crazy or Sir Tim Laurence has secret children.' The user added: 'Pretty sure this is an error, but how did that happen? I can't think of any Tom & Amy siblings in the extended royal family.' Another posted: 'That would be the best hidden royal secret ever.' Someone else asked: 'That is so odd? Could it be an AI mistake? Someone at BP made that list with ChatGPT but didn't check it? Otherwise that would be one heck of a plot twist.' A third user stated: 'This is not true. Sir Tim does not have children from a previous relationship.' A Buckingham Palace spokesman declines to comment. A spokesman for Woman & Home magazine says it does not use AI to write its articles. The fact series was also published on the Royal Family official Instagram channel. It revealed details of Anne's 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.' Pictured: A portrait of Zara and Peter Phillips, children of Princess Anne and her husband, Captain Mark Phillips Anne at the coronation of her brother in May 2023. Anne shows no sign of slowing down just yet and she holds the title of the hardest working royal, having taken on 474 engagements last year A young Princess Anne and her father Anne with Queen Elizabeth II in June 2019. To mark her 70th birthday in 2020, Anne enjoyed a socially distanced lunch with her mother 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 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 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) 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 and her father Prince Philip at the 2012 Olympics. Anne, like Philip, is reportedly planning to wind down her royal duties as she approaches her 80th and then 90th birthday 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.' '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. Last year, the UK hit a grim milestone: More than 10,000 people died as a result of heavy drinking, the largest number on record. The figure is not only tragic but also, on the surface, surprising. Alcohol consumption in Britain has declined since 2004 the year experts believe the UK hit peak booze according to research. Meanwhile an astonishing one in four members of Gen Z (those aged between 18 and 28) are now teetotal. Experts argue that the reason for this worrying rise in alcohol deaths is clear: While many people are drinking less, a small, but not insignificant, proportion of the population are regularly consuming too much alcohol. However, how can patients know when they are drinking too much? And by how much do they need to reduce their intake to avoid life-threatening complications? Using The Daily Mails alcohol tracker, you can work out how much you are drinking and how it compares to others of the same age and gender. Our tool can also tell if you are drinking above the NHS recommended weekly limit. Your browser does not support iframes. More than 320,000 people are admitted to hospital each year with alcohol-related conditions. The majority of those who fall severely ill and die as a result of booze suffer from alcohol-related liver disease. However, research shows excessive alcohol consumption is also linked with heart problems, cancer and mental health issues. Experts have long argued that people who binge drink, consuming more than five units of alcohol in two hours, are at particular risk of alcohol-related illnesses. One in five Britons admit to regularly binge drinking. In recent years, researchers have also warned about the dangers of a form of alcohol abuse known as high-intensity drinking, which involves having eight or more drinks in one night. Both forms of excessive drinking are particularly harmful because the body does not have enough time to filter out the alcohol. This leads to dangerously high levels of booze in the body. However, the dangers of more moderate levels of drinking are still debated amongst experts. In 2016, the NHS guidelines on alcohol were updated following a review of the evidence of the harms caused by drinking too much. The changes, introduced by then Chief Medical Officer Dame Sally Davies, advised everyone to have several completely alcohol-free days, recommended pregnant women drink no alcohol at all and, crucially, recommended that men and women drink no more than 14 units spread over a week. 'There's no such thing as a safe level of drinking,' argues Professor Dame Sally Davies, the former Chief Medical Officer Thats roughly equivalent to six pints of beer, a bottle and a half of wine or 14 single measures of spirits. At the time, Dame Sally said: 'There's no such thing as a safe level of drinking.' Studies show that around a quarter of British adults exceed 14 units most weeks. According to NHS data, 55 to 74-year-olds are most likely to drink more than the recommended amount with a third admitting to regularly consuming more than 14 units a week. Those over-75 are least likely, with less than a quarter saying they exceed the NHS recommended amount. However, experts say exceeding 14 units a week will not necessarily lead to harm. There is no magic number here no cliff edge where, if you drink below that level youre safe to drink, and over that and youre going to die, says Prof John Holmes, an alcohol policy expert at the University of Sheffield whose team in the Sheffield Addictions Research Group produced modelling work which informed the 2016 guidelines. Broadly speaking, the risk increases with each additional drink you consume, and it increases particularly sharply for higher levels of consumption. Ultimately, its just a guideline not a limit, as its often described. Government health chiefs recommend 14 units a week for both men and women. It's less than most people think: roughly equivalent to six pints of beer, a bottle and a half of wine or 14 single measures of spirits Just how much does the risk of ill-health rise with every drink over 14 units? In 2018, a major study, published in the Lancet medical journal, concluded that regularly drinking twice as many units as the NHS recommends 28 units a week would, on average, lower life expectancy by just six months. Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter, one of Britains leading statisticians, has in the past described moderate drinking as less dangerous for long term health than an hour of TV watching a day, or a bacon sandwich a couple times a week. However, experts say the alcohol poses greater risks to women than men. This is because research suggests that alcohol levels remain higher in womens blood for longer. Women have higher rates of liver disease, heart damage and cancer from lower levels of drinking. And all experts agree that people worried about their alcohol intake should avoid binge drinking as much as possible and speak to their GP if they feel unable to cut down. NHS data shows that 55 to 64-year-olds are most likely to binge with just over a fifth admitting to the harmful practice in the past week. Those aged between 35 to 44 were the second most frequent bingers, with a fifth admitting to it. Many people dont realise how seriously harmful binge drinking is for your health, says Zaheen Ahmed, director of therapy at UKAT, an addiction clinic. And the more someone binges, the more difficult it will be for them to quit, because they can become physically dependent on alcohol. Anyone who is concerned about their drinking should speak to their GP. The first thing they will likely do is order a liver test, which will provide clear evidence of the damage that person is doing to their body. However, a GP will probably also recommend problem drinkers see a mental health specialist. This is because, often, people who regularly binge have underlying mental health issues like anxiety or depression. Hawaii has reported a dozen cases of 'bone-breaking' dengue fever, prompting urgent warnings from health officials. The Hawaii Department of Health this week confirmed a case of dengue fever on the island of Oahu in a resident who contracted it during international travel. It's unclear exactly where the individual traveled, but the health department said it was a region where dengue is common, such as southeast Asia, South America, the Caribbean or Africa. This brings the state's total for 2025 to 12, which is already approaching the total of 16 reported in the entirety of last year. So far in 2025, the CDC has confirmed 2,725 cases of dengue fever across 46 states and territories, most of which were locally acquired within the US. Dengue is most common in six states, and the CDC reports of locally acquired cases in Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Arizona and California. While cases have been on the rise in years past, figures are slowing after a dengue outbreak last year resulted in a record-high 8,000 infections. Spread by bites from infected mosquitoes, the disease has been nicknamed 'break-bone fever' because sufferers say their joints and muscles can become so painful it feels like their bones are breaking. And about one in 20 people with symptoms suffer bleeding, gasping for air and shock. Hawaii has reported 12 cases of dengue fever this year, which is spread by the mosquito Aedes aegypti or yellow fever mosquito (pictured in the above stock image) A worker fumigates against mosquitoes around a building after a spike in dengue fever cases in Penuelas, Puerto Rico last year Your browser does not support iframes. All cases detected in Hawaii so far have been in people who traveled to regions where dengue is more common, so the agency warned people returning from endemic areas contact their doctor if they develop symptoms within two weeks. Mosquitoes carrying the dengue virus are usually found in tropical and subtropical regions like Central and South America, Africa, South Asia and the Pacific Islands. In the US, dengue is most prevalent in Florida, Texas and California, as well as the territory Puerto Rico. According to CDC data, Puerto Rico has reported the most dengue cases at 2,152 so far this year. Florida has seen 115 cases while California has seen 62. The disease spreads through mosquito bites and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Roughly 400million people get dengue fever every year but eight in 10 don't develop any symptoms. Those who do usually experience a high fever, blotchy rash, muscle aches, joint pain and pain behind the eyes. But in rare and severe cases, the condition can cause vomiting or throwing up blood, intense joint pain and trouble breathing. These issues may further cause internal bleeding, leading to death. Thirteen percent of patients die from the disease if they do not receive treatment. Dengue is a potentially deadly virus passed to people by infected mosquitoes and was historically known as 'break-bone fever' Emma Cox, 27, is one of those to report suffering from dengue fever. She had traveled to Indonesia, but 10 days after returning to the UK, she developed symptoms There is no antiviral for dengue fever, but the World Health Organization says that by rapidly replacing lost fluids the mortality rate drops to less than one percent. A vaccine for dengue is available and approved by the FDA for children aged nine to 16 years old, but its manufacturer, French pharma giant Sanofi Pasteur, has discontinued production globally, citing a lack of demand. Doses are available in Puerto Rico, but these are expected to run out by 2026. Dengue cases have surged in Latin America, thought to be linked to the El Nino weather cycle at that time - which brings more heavy rains to areas of the continent - leading to more standing water in which mosquitoes can multiply. At the same time, rising temperatures have allowed mosquitoes to be active for longer each year and advance further north. In areas of the world where outbreaks are not as common, upticks are being linked in part to travel, leading to people who become infected abroad to enter the US then get bitten by a mosquito, which passes the virus to the insect and allows it to take root in the local mosquito population. The CDC urges Americans traveling to high-risk areas to carry insect repellent, wear long sleeves and long pants outside and sleep in air-conditioned rooms or those with window screens to prevent being bitten. Health officials have issued an urgent warning following a surge in cases of an organ-destroying virusand warned that holidaymakers need to take extra caution. Chikungunya is classed as a tropical disease, and for the majority of people infected, it manifests as a sudden fever and severe pain in multiple joints. The virus is spread to humans by bites from infected mosquitoes, and while the virus rarely proves fatal, it can severely damage organs and can lead to chronic disability. Symptoms typically resolve within seven to 10 days, and most patients make a full recovery. However, in some cases the joint pain and arthritis may persist for several months or even years. Occasional cases of eye, neurological and heart complications have been reported, as well as gastrointestinal complaints. A small number of people may develop a severe version of the disease, which can lead to multiple organ failure and even death. New figures released today by the UKHSA reveal that there have been 73 cases in 2025 so fara record high for this periodand a near three-fold increase on 2024's figure of 23. A sanitation worker in Dongguan, China spraying insecticide to prevent the spread of the virus All cases were in people who have returned to the UK from abroad this year, with the majority reported travel to Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius. All cases were reported in England, with the majority in London. The virus is spread to humans by bites from infected mosquitoes but it cannot be passed from person-to-person. The UKHSA guidance states that there are only two types of mosquito who can carry the virus, which are unable to survive in the UK's climate. This means that there is currently no risk of contracting the virus in the UK at present, but it can be found in parts of Southern Europe. In a recent warning, Dr Philip Veal, a public health expert at the UK Health Security Agency said: 'Chikungunya can be a nasty disease and we're seeing a worrying increase in cases among travellers returning to the UK. 'It is essential to take precautions against mosquito bites when travelling. Simple steps, such as using insect repellent, covering up your skin and sleeping under insecticide-treated bed nets can greatly reduce the risk. 'Before you travel, check the Travel Health Pro Website for the latest advice on your destination. A chikungunya vaccine may also be considered for those travelling to higher-risk regions.' The organ-destroying tropical virus is spread through bites from mosquitos in warm climates There are currently two vaccinations which protect against the virus; IXCHIQ for those aged between 18 and 64 and Vimkunya for those 12 years and older. In the UK, the vaccine is given to those who travel abroad to certain regions where the chikungunya virus is present. Just last month, the World Health Organisation issued an urgent call for action as cases of the virus exploded across the globe. In recent weeks, Chinese officials reported 10,000 cases, with 7,000 in the southern city of Foshan, in the Guandong provincebut they have not yet seen any deaths. This surge began in early 2025, with major outbreaks reported in the Indian Ocean islands of La Reunion, Mayotte and Mauritiuspopular holiday destinations. So far, globally, there have been 250,000 cases and 90 related deaths in 16 countries this year, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. In recent weeks other experts told the Daily Mail of precautionary measures to take when travelling to hot spots for the virus. Professor Paul Hunter, a professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia, advised travellers to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your arms and legs. This map shows cases per 100,000 population reported across the globe over the last year (Image: European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) Ideally, he added: 'They will be light coloured, so you can see if mosquitos have landed on you.' In particular, he warned that it is a bad idea for women in late stages of pregnancy to travel to these destinations. 'If you get infected with it later on in the pregnancy, it can pose a risk to the baby,' he said. A 2021 study found infection just prior to delivery increases risk of transmission to the baby. However, while concerning, experts have fortunately said it isn't going to be the next pandemic. Professor Will Irving, a virology expert at the University of Nottingham told us: 'There have been equally large, if not larger outbreaks around the world prior to this one.' However, he added: 'With climate change, the mosquitos are spreading, and there are reports of the mosquito being present in parts of Europe (France, Italy, Spain).' Previously the virus was more commonly found in Asia, Africa and South America, but more recently cases have emerged in Europe and the US. The chikungunya virus has also spread to Madagascar, Somalia, Kenya and India and is making its way to Europe. Case counts have also been increasing in Samoa, Tonga, French Polynesia, Fiji and Kiribati. Meanwhile there have been 50 cases of chikungunya infections in the US this year, all contracted by travellers returning from high-risk areas, but still no deaths. A UK-based GP has urged people not to waste their money on cough syrupsbranding them one of the 'biggest health scams out there'. This is because 'there's no evidence they improve or get rid of a cough,' Dr Asif Ahmed, a GP, told his 362,000 followers on TikTok in a recent video. Instead of spending your hard earned cash on them, he advised taking a more natural approach. He said: 'The best thing for a cough is just honey and lemon with some warm water.' The video received hundreds of comments from social media users who reacted to his warning. In one comment, a social media user said: 'I was allergic to a cough syrup, came out in hives. Dr told me to stick to warm water and honey and couple [of] paracetamol.' Another wrote: 'Cough syrups don't get rid of a cough but do work for soothing it.' According to the National Health Service (NHS), while cough syrups can help you cough less, 'they will not stop your cough'. They similarly recommend hot lemon and honey, but add that it is not suitable for babies under the age of one. @dra_says No evidence these work. My opinion! please do your own research. Educational Purposes only. original sound - Dr Ahmed They also recommend the herbal medicine pelargoniumwhich is available at Boots or Holland and Barret storesbut it isn't suitable for children under the age of 12. If you're suffering from pain, they recommended taking the painkillers paracetamol or ibuprofen. However, not all medicines and herbal treatments are appropriate for everyone, particularly people with existing medical conditions or pregnant, so you should always check the leaflet. If you feel very unwell, have chest pain, the side of your neck feels swollen and painful, you're coughing up blood, or finding it hard to breath you should call 111. However, if you are experiencing severe difficulty breathing you should call 999 or immediately or go to A&E. Scientific studies have found there is no strong evidence for the effectiveness of cough medicines in children or adults. Last year, cough syrups containing codeine became restricted in Britain over fears people were getting addicted to the powerful drug. Now all codeine linctus products, which were previously available over-the-counter for as little as 13, are prescription only. These are the five cough syrups that the health watchdog previously made prescription-only The restriction came as drug watchdogs were concerned about rising cases of serious, and sometimes fatal, side effects of abusing the elixirs. Health chiefs were also worried that the drug was being used recreationally for its powerful opioid effects in 'Purple Drank'a mixture containing codeine and soda. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which polices the safety of drugs used in Britain, said it was aware of pressure being put on pharmacists to sell codeine to addicts. Codeine is an opioida class of painkillers in the same family as morphine, heroin and fentanyl. And like with other opioids, people can become addicted. Codeine linctus is recommended to ease the symptoms of a dry cough in adults and children over the age of 12 with no breathing difficulties. The MHRA said the move only affected five products: Codeine Linctus BP, Bell's healthcare codeine linctus, Care codeine, Galcodine Linctus, Pulmo Bailly. Other over-the-counter codeine products, such as tablets containing the painkiller, were not be affected. Their move to make them prescription-only came after the watchdog carried out a consultation with 1,000 responses. They also received three case reports describing addiction specifically to codeine linctus. Their decision was welcomed by pharmacy bodies who revealed pharmacists 'often experience[d] aggression from patients' when refusing supply to the medicine. Around one in four people experience heartburn from time to time - and while many presume medication is the only way to alleviate it, relief can be found using everyday items hiding in your kitchen cupboard. This isn't just the basis of old wives' tales - these are approaches supported by science. And these remedies maybe easily at hand in the fridge, the spice rack or even the sweet jar. They may offer a helpful option as the typical burning sensation in the middle of the chest that heartburn causes often hits at night. The pain occurs when stomach acid rises into your oesophagus - the pipe that carries food to the stomach. Some may also experience burping, an unpleasant sour taste in the mouth caused by the regurgitation of stomach acid, a bloated stomach, nausea or abdominal pain. While an occasional inconvenience for most, for around 9.5million people it's a regular occurrence, referred to as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The heartburn may be so painful that it can 'sometimes being mistaken for heart attack pains', says Dr Cameron Braddy-Green, a consultant gastroenterologist and general physician at Whipps Cross University Hospital in London and the private Nuffield Health at Barts Health NHS Trust. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid rises into your oesophagus - the pipe that carries food to the stomach - and affects about 9.5million Britons There isn't always an obvious trigger for the symptoms, but being overweight can play a role as it puts pressure on the abdomen, pushing acid back up into the oesophagus, explains Dr Braddy-Green. This is also true of pregnancy, particularly in the later stages. It may also be worsened by eating late, and rich foods can contribute as they are often high in fat, which slows digestion and can increase acid production. Meanwhile, spicy foods which contain capsaicin - a chemical compound that makes food taste hot - can be a problem as this can irritate the oesophagus. Heartburn can also be a side effect of anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen, which can irritate the stomach lining. Even stress is implicated. Studies have shown that the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which plays a key role in the body's stress response and triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, can increase the oesophagus's sensitivity, making it more aware of smaller amounts of acid and, therefore, more prone to heartburn. 'For those who have a history of GORD or who suffer from chronic reflux, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs, which switch off stomach acid production) such as omeprazole and lansoprazole, may be prescribed by your doctor,' adds Dr Braddy-Green. Meanwhile, for occasional heartburn, antacids such as Rennie can be of benefit as they help 'neutralise the acid,' he says. 'Alginates such as Gaviscon also help by forming a gel-like barrier between the stomach and oesophagus - these help by preventing stomach acid from flowing back up.' These are available over the counter as tablets or liquids, but if you suffer from the odd bout of heartburn and can't get to the chemist or fancy a drug-free approach, then might a home remedy be worth a go? Dr Braddy-Green gives his verdict on some of the most popular ones... Chewing gum Chewing gum after a meal helps promote the production of saliva and not only neutralises any stomach acid but soothes an inflamed oesophagus, helping to wash acid back down into the tummy, explains Dr Braddy-Green. A 2001 study in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that chewing gum for one hour after meals could help reduce acid exposure. Benefits come from the act of chewing, so any gum is worth trying - apart from peppermint gum. 'This can relax the smooth muscle in the oesophagus and actually worsen the acid exposure,' Dr Braddy Green. Milk A glass of milk may soothe heartburn as the calcium and magnesium within act as a temporary protective buffer to the acid in the stomach. One 2017 study in Complementary Therapies In Medicine found milk's antacid ability was actually comparable to both ENO (a popular antacid medication) and baking soda. Many chewable antacids are magnesium based - Rennie, for instance. But Dr Braddy-Green suggests trying low or semi-skimmed instead of full-fat milk, which triggers the release of certain hormones that can slow the rate of stomach emptying, prolonging heartburn. 'It also stimulates the stomach's acid production due to its fat content being harder to digest,' he adds. Low-fat yoghurt will have the same soothing qualities as well as containing additional probiotics - the 'good' bacteria that may help with digestion. A glass of milk may soothe heartburn as the calcium and magnesium within act as a protective buffer to stomach acid Turmeric Curcumin, the active compound of turmeric, may be as effective as omeprazole - a PPI medicine used to reduce stomach acid - according to some early research. In a 2023 study at Chulalongkorn University Faculty of Medicine in Bangkok, published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, researchers found that over a two-month period two 250mg capsules a day reduced symptoms as effectively as a standard 20mg omeprazole. While supplements would provide more accurate amounts, a teaspoon of dried turmeric contains roughly 200mg of curcumin, according to the Food Standards Agency, but the amount can vary depending on the turmeric's origin and quality. The benefits of curcumin are thought to be down to its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties which potentially protect the lining of the oesophagus from stomach acid damage. 'This is certainly interesting but further studies need to be carried out before I'd suggest people actually try it,' says Dr Braddy-Green. Chamomile tea A relaxing cup of chamomile, often used to promote a good night's sleep, may also help with heartburn. One theory is that it relaxes muscles, particularly the pylorus (a valve at the bottom of the stomach), allowing the stomach to empty quicker and reducing the chance of acid escaping back up the oesophagus. Its calming effects may also help with stress, a known contributory factor. Indeed chamomile's benefits may be less to do with a direct effect on the stomach and 'more to do with the calming and soothing effect from the warm water tea,' says Dr Braddy-Green. But avoid it if you have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to ragweed pollens, he adds, as chamomile shares similar proteins so could, potentially, trigger allergic reactions. Aloe vera A 2015 study in the Journal Of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that aloe vera (a succulent tropical plant) given in syrup form, at a dose of 10ml per day for a month, was as effective as conventional medicines such as omeprazole at reducing heartburn, food regurgitation, flatulence, belching and nausea. 'While sounding impressive, the patients in this trial knew what they were taking so the results could well be a placebo effect,' says Dr Braddy-Green, which makes the trial results 'unreliable'. 'It does, however, seem to have a positive effect on the process of repair and restoration of the mucosal lining, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.' He adds that aloe vera also has laxative properties - used long-term it can lead to diarrhoea, weight loss and other conditions due to fluid loss. 'For this reason more research is needed before I'd recommended using it to treat heartburn.' Ginger A centuries-old heartburn remedy, a 2023 study published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science investigated the effect of a ginger supplement on symptoms and found that over four weeks those taking a 540mg dose before lunch and dinner had a significant improvement. It's thought to work by 'increasing the speed and efficiency that food moves through the digestive tract, reducing the amount of acid the oesophagus is exposed to', explains Dr Braddy-Green. Anecdotally, steeping some slices of fresh ginger root in hot water and drinking as a tea could also be beneficial. But it might not be for everyone, as some people find ginger actually causes stomach upset, makes them bloated and gassy - and can even worsen heartburn. Dr Cameron Braddy-Green, a consultant gastroenterologist in London, warns that treating heartburn with baking soda can lead to 'dehydration, seizures and kidney failure' Liquorice root Love it or hate it, liquorice root may help heartburn - but it's best to consume deglycyrrhizinated liquorice (DGL), which has been stripped of glycyrrhizin, the compound that gives liquorice its sweet taste. DGL, available as tablets or capsules, is said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It's also believed to help increase the mucous coating of the oesophageal lining, protecting it against stomach acid. A 2010 study in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found 75mg of the herbal remedy GutGuard, which contains DGL, twice daily for 30 days improved heartburn symptoms. DGL is favoured over liquorice itself which, when eaten in large quantities (around 2oz or 57g every day for several weeks), can cause high blood pressure, water retention and low potassium which can cause effects such as muscle weakness and abnormal heart rhythms. However, Dr Braddy-Green says that deglycyrrhizated products can still contain some glycyrrhizin. And when compared with the safety profile of PPI, for example, it's not worth taking. Enjoy the odd piece of liquorice, but don't take it for your heartburn. ...And one to avoid: baking soda It might be better known as a rising agent for cakes but dissolving half a teaspoon of baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, in water is said to work in the same way as many over-the-counter antacids - by neutralising stomach acids. 'However, off-the-shelf baking soda has a very high sodium (salt) content - between seven to eight times the amount of sodium and bicarbonate compared with say prescription sodium bicarbonate, which is given to patients with chronic kidney disease,' says Dr Braddy-Green. 'For this reason, it can cause serious complications and I'd avoid it completely. Used in excess it can cause the body to try to correct the salt balance by drawing water into the digestive system. This can lead to dehydration, seizures and kidney failure.' In short, keep the baking soda for the baking. The number of people in England waiting for routine hospital treatment has surged for the first time since March. More than 7.37million treatmentsrelating to 6.23million patients are now in the queue for ops like hip replacements, official data revealed today. This includes over 190,000 people stuck in limbo for at least a year, often in pain. While the figure for June marks a drop on the record 7.77million treatments logged in September 2023, it is up almost 10,000 on May. Separate NHS monthly performance data today also revealed around 1,000 patients faced waits of at least 12 hours in A&E every day in June. Experts slammed the 'unacceptable' toll being heaped on patients, warning that A&E clinicians are 'reporting this week as one of the worst they have experienced'. It comes just hours after a leading think tank warned the NHS had 'misled' the public about the reasons why the waiting list has fallen. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has repeatedly claimed the 260,000 drop in the NHS backlog since the general election 'was not a coincidence', adding that it was because of 'record investment and fundamental NHS reform'. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. But a new Quality Watch report by the Nuffield Trust think tank found 245,000 appointments were being removed every month because patients died, had treatment elsewhere or moved abroad, rather than because treatment had finished. According to the monthly NHS figures, the number of hospital treatments on the waiting list jumped by 9,712 to 7.37million. Some 191,8142.6 per cent of those in the backlog had been waiting at least 12 months. And 1,103 had been waiting for at least 18 months. Although that figure is down from the 1,237 in May. Waiting lists last increased in March before falling for two consecutive months. Responding to the latest figures, Dr Becks Fisher, Nuffield Trust director of research and policy, said the waiting list 'remains stubbornly high'. She added: 'Our new analysis shows that waiting list reductions in previous months are not wholly due to increases in appointments being delivered. In fact, the NHS is still treating fewer patients than are being referred. 'But, an average of about 245,000 cases have been coming off the list each month due to reasons other than patients being recorded as getting their treatment. Your browser does not support iframes. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has repeatedly claimed the 260,000 drop in the NHS backlog since the general election 'was not a coincidence', adding that it was because of 'record investment and fundamental NHS reform' 'Doing this work to improve the accuracy of the waiting list is important, but we should be under no illusions that despite delivering more appointments, the NHS is still not meeting patient demand.' Elsewhere, new analysis from NHS England found more care was delivered during the most recent doctors' strike compared to a year ago. Resident doctorsformerly known as junior doctorsin England took to the picket lines for five days in July 25 in a dispute with the Government over pay. But, according to the health service, 11,071 more appointments and procedures went ahead during this strike compared to the five-day walkout before the general election in 2024. Staff absences were also lower, it said, with around 1,243 fewer staff absent each day on average compared to last June. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the figures show the NHS 'was more resilient against last month's strike action than ever before'. 'We are getting on with the job of delivering progress in the face of strike action, and we will continue to put patients first,' he said. Latest A&E figures, however, show 35,467 patients had to wait more than 12 hours last month before being admitted, transferred or discharged. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Some 76.4 per cent of patients were seen within four hours in A&Es in July, up from 75.5 per cent in June. The health service's target is 78 per cent. But these figures only look at trolley waits the time between doctors deciding a patient needs to be admitted and them getting a bed. Figures capturing exact arrival times at A&E paint a much bleaker picture, with 122,852 patients (8.3 per cent) forced to wait at least 12 hours. Dr Nick Murch, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said: 'These figures again highlight the extent of the crisis across urgent and emergency care, with an unacceptable amount of people waiting over 12 hours in emergency departments, often suffering avoidable harm. 'Clinicians across the UK are reporting this week as one of the worst they have experienced, with no sign of the brief respite seen in the immediate aftermath of recent strike action. 'Yet there remains no tangible and immediate action to address urgent workforce and capacity issues. 'Sadly, instead, recent commentary and reporting suggests a growing reliance on selective or misleading interpretations of NHS data, as highlighted this week in analysis by the Nuffield Trust which calls into question claims the NHS is being turned around. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. 'This is similar to what is being seen in many urgent and emergency care settings where some areas are being rebranded to 'off the clock' areas improving performance data but not changing the patient journey or experience. Cancer patients also faced longer waits in Juneseparate NHS figures released today show just one of the three national cancer targets were met. Just 67.1 per cent of newly-diagnosed cancer patients referred for urgent treatment were seen within two monthsthe target is 85 per cent. Meanwhile, only 91.7 per cent of patients started treatment within 31 days of being booked in June, below the goal of 96 per cent. The health service target of telling at least 75 per cent of patients with suspected cancer they do or don't have the disease was, however, met at 76.8 per cent. But separate ambulance figures for July released by the health service today, found response times had improved. Heart attack and stroke patients in England, known as category two callers, had to wait an average of 28 minutes and 40 seconds for paramedics to arrive on the scene. This is almost a minute quicker than June but ten minutes longer than the 18 minute target. The average category one response timecalls from people with life-threatening illnesses or injurieswas 7 minutes and 56 seconds. This is just 1 second longer than the previous month. The target time is seven minutes. Ambulance teams handled more than 843,535 incidents in July. Millions of Americans could be at risk of rabies as infections surge among wildlife, and experts warn that summer recreation spots from backyards to hiking trails are no longer safe. Within the past two weeks, dozens of county governments from Maine to Wyoming have issued urgent warnings to residents and tourists about a surge in rabies cases among local wildlife, putting communities at risk. The dog-specific rabies variant, once the main threat to humans, was declared eliminated in the US in 2007 thanks to strict vaccination laws. However, the threat remains as bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes still carry rabies, and unvaccinated dogs can contract canine rabies from these wild animals and transmit it to humans. That threat was top of mind for officials at the Campbell County Department of Health in North Carolina, who, last week, alerted the public after spotting two dogs near the body of a fox that tested positive for rabies earlier this week. It is unclear whether the dogs were up to date on their rabies vaccines. Over 90 percent of animal cases reported to the CDC are in wildlife. And while one to three Americans die of the disease every year, the threat of exposure appears to be rising. More than 200 tourists from 38 states were potentially exposed to the near-always fatal virus via a wild bat colony at the Jackson Lake Lodge in Wyoming between mid-May and late July. The state health department launched an all-out awareness effort to contact guests earlier this week. A rabid fox attacked and bit two people in separate incidents last Monday in Aberdeen, North Carolina. Both of them are receiving medical treatment and are expected to recover. Without rapid treatment, consisting of a fast-acting antibody shot followed by a four-dose series of shots spread over 14 days, the disease is fatal. A North Carolina mother checking what she thought was a cat under her car was suddenly attacked by a wild fox, biting her leg, then her hand as she fought it off. That same fox, which tested positive for rabies, attacked someone else about 40 minutes later A 77-year-old unnamed man in North Carolina was bitten by the same animal on his leg (pictured) on his birthday Your browser does not support iframes. After a bite, rabies infiltrates the nerves and travels to the brain, causing deadly inflammation. It destroys the brainstem, disrupting breathing and heart function while triggering aggression, hallucinations, and fear of water from throat spasms. Once symptoms appear, death follows within days. Rabid animals often exhibit bizarre, unusual behavior, such as biting their own limbs, growling or drooling excessively, and stumbling. Rabid bats are often unable to fly or fly in endless circles, while typically nocturnal animals, including foxes, raccoons and bats, will appear in daylight. In Wyoming, State Health Officer Alexia Harrist said: What were really concerned about is certainly people who have had actual physical contact with bats because the way that rabies is spread is through the bats saliva, either through a bite or a scratch. Eight cottage-style rooms at the Jackson Lake Lodge were closed on July 27 after multiple bat encounters were reported since June. The colony was settled in the hotels attic. Travis Riddell, director of the Teton County Public Health Department, said: Although there were a lot of people exposed in this incident, one positive about it is that we know who 100 percent of those people are. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, a young mother left her house to investigate what sounded like a cat under her car. Almost immediately, a wild fox bit her leg and then her hand when she tried to get it off her. Officers narrowly missed the fox, who ran into the neighboring woods. Wyoming health officials are warning 200 guests at a Grand Teton hotel about possible rabies exposure from bats between May to July, with travelers from 38 states and 7 countries at risk (stock) More than 200 people may have been infected with rabies after spending the night at the Jackson Jake Lodge in Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park Then they got a call about a similar incident nearby. A 77-year-old unnamed man was bitten by the same fox on his leg, according to police. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The fox, which tested positive for rabies, was caught and shot by Moore County Animal Services deputies. Both people are receiving appropriate medical care. After a rabid raccoon attacked a person and dog in a Charleston County neighborhood last week, health officials are issuing an urgent warning: unvaccinated pets pose a dual risk in that they can contract rabies from wildlife like raccoons and then transmit the deadly virus to humans through bites or saliva. State officials have also reported a series of rabies cases among wild animals in recent weeks. Most recently, Franklin County, North Carolina officials reported its 10th confirmed animal rabies case of the year. Scott LaVigne, Franklin County Health Director, said: Weve already doubled the number of confirmed rabies cases in Franklin County this year, more than all of 2024, and this season is not even close to being over. Just this summer, cases have also been confirmed in animals in Virginia, several towns in Maine, New York state, Texas and Washington, where a rabid bat appeared in a childs bedroom. READ MORE: Global epidemic alarm as China virus spreads to new country Cases of the debilitating chikungunya virus sweeping through China are also surging in the US, health officials have warned. CDC officials have reported four more cases this week, bringing the total to 50 cases of chikungunya in the US, all of which are in people who traveled to areas where it is more common like Asia and South America. It is unclear how many are linked to China's outbreak. The virus, which is spread by the Aedes mosquito, can cause sudden, agonizing joint pain in the hands and feet that can be so severe that it leaves sufferers unable to move normally for months. Chikungunya is tearing through China with more than 10,000 cases, leaving the nation battling its largest outbreak ever. The outbreak has prompted the CDC to issue a level 2 travel warning for China, which urges Americans to take extra precautions when visiting the area. The notice also applies to Brazil, Colombia, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand. Chikungunya is a 'nationally notifiable' condition in the US, meaning health authorities can voluntarily report cases to the agency for national tracking and monitoring. While a handful of cases pop up in the US every year from people traveling to high-risk areas, it hasn't experienced local transmission since 2019. But with 1.6million people traveling between the US and China every year, mosquitoes in America could bite an infected traveler and begin transmitting the virus locally to Americans. The CDC has reported 50 cases of chikungunya in the US amid an outbreak in China The above map shows the area in China where US travelers are being advised to take enhanced precautions because of the outbreak Your browser does not support iframes. Dr Louisa Messenger, a mosquito researcher in Nevada, previously told DailyMail.com: 'This outbreak in China is very concerning. It [the virus] could already be here in the US; and really it's just one plane flight away.' Along with the CDC, travel agencies and cruise lines have also issued warnings about preventing mosquito-borne diseases, including chikungunya, dengue and Lyme disease, all of which have been detected in the US so far this year. Last month, Norwegian Cruise Line warned guests traveling to Italy this year to use insect repellent and wear clothing treated with permethrin, which can repel ticks and mosquitoes. Aedes mosquitoes are common in Italy, especially around coastal areas. Authorities in Italy reported the first locally acquired cases of both dengue and chikungunya, prompting the warnings from Norwegian Cruise Line. The Massachusetts Department of Health also urged in a recent health bulletin not to travel to areas with known outbreaks of mosquito-borne illnesses and get necessary vaccines if you are traveling to these areas. Health officials in New Jersey also stated: 'The best way to prevent chikungunya is to prevent mosquito bites and avoid travel to areas with ongoing chikungunya outbreaks.' Chikungunya is spread to humans from a bite from the Aedes mosquito, which also spread dengue fever, yellow fever and Zika virus. The infection does not spread from person to person through bodily contact or saliva. However, pregnant women who become infected near the time of delivery can pass the virus to their baby during birth, which can result in severe illness in the newborn. More than 10,000 cases have been detected in China so far, prompting Covid-era protections About 15 to 35 percent of people infected with the virus are asymptomatic, the CDC reports. The incubation period is typically three to seven days and the most common symptom is a sudden onset of a fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit (39 degrees Celsius). Other symptoms of chikungunya virus include headache, nausea, rash, muscle aches, swelling and redness of the conjunctiva (the white part of the eye and inner eyelids) and joint pain that is sometimes severe and debilitating in the hands or feet. In severe cases, life-threatening complications involving the heart and brain can occur such as inflammation, irregular heartbeats and organ failure. Symptoms usually last seven to 10 days, but patients may experience lifelong complications such as persistent joint pain. There is no specific treatment for chikungunya, and doctors mostly focus on easing symptoms like over-the-counter pain and fever medications. However, there are two vaccines available for people visiting an area with an outbreak. The above compares chikungunya symptoms to those from Zika virus and Dengue, which are both also spread by mosquitoes China has recorded approximately 10,000 chikungunya viruses this year, making this its largest outbreak of the virus. Mitigation efforts, including using drones to spray insecticide in mosquito-infested areas has led to a slow down in new cases, though more than 1,000 were still recorded in the last week. According to the CDC, chikungunya was rarely detected in American travelers before 2006. But between 2006 and 2013, the US logged around 30 imported cases a year, all in people who had recently visited affected regions in Asia, Africa or the Indian Ocean. In 2014, a total of 2,799 cases were reported - including 12 that were locally acquired - in states and territories such as Florida, Texas, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, making it the country's worst year on record for the virus. An MSNBC contributor admitted that Washington DC residents are fed up with crime amid Democratic outcry after President Trump sent in the National Guard. Speaking on Wednesday's edition of 'Morning Joe', justice and legal affairs analyst Anthony Coley admitted that the matter was 'personal' as he lives in the city. 'Many people are frustrated with crime that we see, particularly committed by juveniles in the city of Washington,' Coley said. 'People are frustrated that when they got to CVS to buy deodorant, that they have to get it from behind locked plexiglass, right? 'These are not just random anecdotes. What we see in Washington Post polling is that roughly half of residents view this as a serious problem or an extremely serious problem.' The admission from Coley came after the former Justice Department official penned an opinion piece that called the move 'unnecessary'. He said: 'Even as crime rates fall, many Washingtonians do not feel safe walking through Union Station, shopping on U Street or living in Navy Yard. 'To be clear: Trump's moves to take over the Metropolitan Police Department and activate the D.C. National Guard are unnecessary, wrong and unwarranted. MSNC's justice and legal affairs analyst Anthony Coley, seen here, admitted on air that the matter was 'personal' as he lives in the city Coley did say that the decision by Trump to bring in the National Guard was an 'unnecessary' one 'But if officials in the district don't do something fast, they may give the president and Congress more reason to try to take over even more than they already have.' He expressed a similar stance on air, adding: 'want to be clear that this does not justify the disproportionate response that we are seeing from Donald Trump. 'It is a political stunt. He is exploiting people's fears. But to be frank, Democrats on the D.C. Council have created this political opening that allows him to do that.' 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. 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. FBI Director Kash Patel said on Tuesday that 23 people were arrested in the city with help from partners in a post to his X. An update by the bureau on Wednesday said a further 43 people were taken in by agencies on the ground in the city. National Guard troops with their Humvees are shown on the National Mall on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 Your browser does not support iframes. 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'. The president also vowed to clear out camps of homeless people from Washington, DC parks and public lands 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 police 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. Longtime MSNBC star Chris Matthews has warned Donald Trump is goading Democrats into 'a trap' with his takeover of the Washington, DC, police force. The retired 'Hardball' host explained how he believes the president is effectively daring members of the party to defend an unacceptable status quo of crime in the municipality. The government in January said violent crime in DC was at a '30-year-low' in 2024, and early statistics from the Metropolitan Police Department suggest similar results can be expected for 2025. But such statistics, Matthews warned Morning Joe's Mika Brzezinski, can be misleading - especially when taken as truth without a hint of personal experience. Matthews - a resident of nearby Maryland - concluded that crime remains a problem in DC, and Democrats risk coming off as out-of-touch by using it as a talking point. The argument echoed one offered by Anderson Cooper on CNN on Tuesday. Mike Nellis, a former Kamala Harris advisor, similarly told the Hill: 'My advice to Democrats is dont take the bait.' Matthews - who left MSNBC after more than 30 years in 2020 - told Brzezinski: 'I think that the Democrats need to go beyond saying, "No, look at the data, crime is going down,"' 'I feel that is exactly the wrong response politically,' he continued. Longtime MSNBC star Chris Matthews warned on Thursday that Donald Trump is effectively goading Democrats into slamming him by taking over Washington, DC's, police force Matthews - a resident of nearby Maryland - concluded that crime remains a problem in DC, and Democrats risk coming off as out-of-touch by using it as a talking point 'Even if it's true.' With the 2026 midterm elections just over a year away, Matthews, 79, went on to explain more in-depth why he believes progressive relying on statistics showing that crime is decreasing are playing into the president's hands. 'The Democrats are, I agree with you, Mika, theyre falling into the trap of defending whats indefensible,' he said, predicting the strategy could soon blow up in Dems' faces, especially when Midterms roll around next year 'I love DC I think its a beautiful city,' he added separately. '[But you see] signs of homelessness, which is not being treated... You see graffiti, which drives me crazy, because it's right on the most beautiful places, the bridges and all covered in graffiti, and they have to paint it over to cover it up,' 'They don't really get rid of it, it's still there.' He said he believes the issue stems from a divide seen between those who live in 'the suburbs and the rural areas' of big cities like DC still struggling from a pandemic-related spike in crime. 'I think Trump knows that people are afraid to go into big cities, to go to a Phillies game,' Matthews said. 'They talk about it. They don't want to go downtown.' Brzezinski's cohost husband, Joe Scarborough, would have agreed if he were present. Statistics, Matthews warned Mika Brzezinski on Thursday's Morning Joe, can be misleading - especially when taken as truth without a hint of personal experience Crime remains a serious problem in DC, especially for people living there, Matthews said. Pictured, cops detaining a suspect in DC on Wednesday after Trump's announcement of the federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department He read a text from a 'very liberal' friend who lives in DC on-air Tuesday, to illustrate a similar point. 'He says, "This may sound controversial, but Im not totally opposed to Trumps National Guard move in D.C. I know hes doing it for politics, but crime remains rampant,"' Scarborough read. '"Ive had too many friends carjacked, shot at. None of us will walk more than three blocks after 8 p.m. 13 year-olds are committing many of these crimes. Quite a change from a decade ago, when things were much calmer."' Cooper, on Tuesday, told New York Times correspondent Maggie Haberman that Dems' decision was set to backfire because so many locals of all political persuasions have personally experienced DC's lawlessness. 'Its so interesting,' Cooper he said on the set of Anderson Cooper 360. '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, in turn, conceded: 'There is a crime problem everywhere.' Matthews, 70, retired from MSNBC after more than 30 years with the network in March 2020, and currently lives in a suburb of Maryland not far from DC with his family The president justified the order by insisting the state of DC constituted a 'crime emergency'. Troops arrived there on Tuesday. The situation remains ongoing. Total violent crime in the District of Columbia decreased 35 percent from 2023 last year, the DOJ said in January. But it continues to be plagued by shocking incidents. Brzezinski, in turn, told Matthews: 'Yes, its a trap. If its not a winner politically to say, "Oh, youre wrong, look at the data," because you know if one violent crime happens in a very heavily populated part of the city, people hear about it and its visceral. 'They dont want it,' she added. 'And theyll gravitate to the person who appears to be doing something about it.' Brzezinski and Scarborough have lived in DC for the past three decades. retired from MSNBC after more than 30 years with the network in March 2020. He lives in a Maryland suburb with his family. Criminals are finding sneakier ways to access your data and steal your cash. Sophisticated scams are on the rise, and new research from Virgin Media O2 shows one in five 5 Britons have already been hacked. An investigation by the telecoms giant and Good Morning Britain shows how easily your data can be accessed... How an email address can give criminals your details While personal scams are on the rise, so too are cyberattacks on well-known high street names. M&S has been a recent casualty after criminals froze critical systems. Freelance ethical hacker Brandyn Murtagh works with businesses, including Virgin O2, to identify and fix these vulnerabilities to prevent further attacks. Murtaugh does not have a criminal background, he uses the same techniques used by criminals for good to see what information hackers might have access to through just an email address. He told Dave Fishwick, who has been working on preventing scams, that he has an ethical hacking system that can search up to 28 billion 'hacked' records from 2010 to 2025 within three minutes. Dave Fishwick has worked with ITV and ethical hacker Brandyn Murtaugh There are also marketplaces online where criminals can pay for hacked information. With just the emails of two volunteers, Murtagh was able to find current and previous passwords, including a work one, email addresses and phone numbers. He even found their addresses and the places they've recently visited. All of this information can be used by a hacker to access banking passwords that can then be reset to give criminals full control of their accounts. Murtagh says one of the worst instances was a hacker having access to an email address, from which they were able to lock out access to every account associated with the user, including financial and social media profiles. How to protect yourself Dave Fishwick has worked with ITV to help people protect themselves from hackers. His number one tip is to choose a strong and unique password for each login and use two-factor authentication. Virgin O2's research shows that a quarter of people use basic passwords, with nearly half reusing the same one across different sites. Most worryingly, one in 20 admits to using 'password' as their password. People should be cautious of cold calls out of the blue from big organisations, like HMRC, particularly as hackers keep up with current affairs to trick people into handing over their information. The most recent example of this has been a winter fuel payment scam text sent to pensioners, but Murtaugh says the most common scams are in connection with recruitment. This Is Money revealed this scam two years ago, when a reader was scammed out of 16,500, leaving her penniless. Dave also says people need to report scam texts via 7726, which is used by every mobile phone provider. It's a sinking feeling - returning to your car after a day out or nipping to the shops to find a yellow parking ticket slapped on your windscreen. Did you use the car park without paying? Or perhaps spend a few extra hours in the shops, overstaying the time limit? For a growing number of drivers it's neither as these parking charge notices (PCNs) are actually fake tickets placed there by scammers in a bid to drain the victim's bank account, This is Money can reveal. Motorists have long been plagued with scam parking fine texts and dodgy QR codes stuck to parking payment meters. But just as motorists are cottoning on to these vile tricks, scammers have turned to old school methods of ripping off innocent motorists. Tricksters are now placing phoney yellow tickets on the windscreen of cars in a cruel bid to con drivers out of potentially hundreds or thousands of pounds and also steal their data. The fake notices have popped up in hotspots around the nation. And it's a growing problem... Scam? Tricksters are now putting fake yellow tickets on the windscreen of cars How does it work? Increasing numbers of drivers are being sucked into the convincing scam, experts reveal. Paul Hampson, fraud specialist at Liverpool-based CEL Solicitors, has noticed a growing number of cases pass by his desk. He says: 'We originally thought these cases were isolated but the number of clients coming to us has significantly increased. 'We're now seeing a clear pattern same scam, different postcodes, often with the same cloned branding.' The scam tickets will look remarkably similar to the real yellow tickets. And the notice is just as convincing when opened. 'These scams are worryingly sophisticated. Everything about these fake tickets looks authentic - the branding, the language, even the payment site. 'We've seen tickets that use real registration plates, correct car park names and even cloned council logos. Victims often don't realise until their card has been drained.' When unsuspecting drivers open the fake ticket, they'll be greeted with a logo from a legitimate parking company or the local council and often their own registration number. The crooks will include real information about the car they have gathered through publicly available data or by looking at car number plates in a car park. Plus, there will either be a website link or a QR code to a payment portal to strip you of your cash. Only 60 or 70 will be asked for but once you enter your card details into the fake portal, fraudsters can run wild with the information and make larger purchases. Where are the scam hotspots? If you live in or visit a busy area, it's vital to keep a keen eye out for the bogus tickets, Mr Hampson warns. 'We've found it's often places with heavy footfall retail parks, commuter hubs, or busy seafronts where these scammers thrive. They rely on people being in a rush and not questioning the fine.' Reports of the cruel trick have emerged in London as swathes of these bogus PCNs have been found in Peckham, Islington and Stratford. Plus, Southampton City Council was even forced to issue a warning after empty PCNs were found on vehicles. The British Parking Association has also acknowledged rising reports of these fraudulent tickets mimicking real notices on private land, and in pay and display areas. But it also reveals the fake tickets can be used by drivers to park anywhere they like without paying for parking, as one user has gloated on social media, or to deter others from parking on their road. A Welsh town was last year plagued with phoney yellow parking tickets as residents tried to stop others parking in their neighbourhoods. But the scammers have more dangerous motives. And what's worse is the fake PCNs are easily available online for those with malicious intent. What to do if you spot a bogus yellow ticket If you find a yellow PCN on your car with a QR code to pay the fine, do not scan it. Legitimate tickets will rarely, if ever, use a QR to accept payments. If you are directed to a web address to make a payment, verify it first. Another trick you can use to check the validity of a ticket is to look for urgent statements, for example, if the PCN warns you must make immediate payment to escape legal action. Mr Hampson says: 'Legitimate parking fines usually allow an appeal process scammers want you to act fast and skip that step.' If in doubt, you can always contact the council or parking company independently to verify the fine. You should take a photograph of the fine to show the parking company. Report the scam to Action Fraud. If you have already used the fake PCN to pay the fine, you should contact your bank and freeze your card. Mr Hampson says: 'These criminals are clever, but the same rules apply - slow down, don't pay under pressure, and verify before clicking or scanning anything. A fake PCN might cost you 70 on the surface - but thousands in stolen data.' Watch out for card skimmers It comes as another callous new scam targeting motorists has popped up in Oxford. Scammers had attached skimming devices which are devices used to capture card details without knowledge of the holder, typically at an ATM on some of the payment machines. Three drivers said money had been taken or were attempted to be withdrawn from their account after using the payment machines at a city centre car park. One telltale sign is a 'card declined' message on the machine, officials say. While only the Oxford case is currently known, the British Parking Association warns this cruel trick could be attempted elsewhere in future. It is asking motorists to be aware of this scam when paying for parking and to report anything unusual to authorities and Action Fraud. Have you been hit with a fake parking ticket? Email: L.evans@dailymail.co.uk If you thought paying a monthly subscription to the likes of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube to avoid adverts was bad, Volkswagen is now charging a recurring fee to unlock the full power of customers' electric cars. The German automotive giant has added a monthly subscription to release the full performance from some of its ID.3 electric hatchback variants. Customers who order the mid-spec Pro (from 35,740) up to the Pro S (39,940) will get their hands on a car with 201bhp. But there is more potency locked away within the powertrain that's been electronically restricted by VW. Owners are only able to access this by paying a monthly subscription fee of 16.50. Doing so unleashes the full power capacity of 228bhp. To put the subscription cost into perspective, it's almost six times the ad-free upgrade for Amazon Prime Video and three times that to watch Netflix without adverts. Volkswagen is calling this performance paywall an 'optional power upgrade'. Though customers could be irked by the fact the full performance of their vehicles is locked out of reach. Power paywall: Volkswagen is now charging a monthly subscription to unlock the full performance of its ID.3 electric cars The small print states: 'Important information for new ID.3 orders: Engine power is 150kW as standard, 170kW if you activate the optional power upgrade for a fee. 'Choice of one-month free trial or subscription (one month, one year or outright purchase for lifetime of car. 'See your In-car Shop or the Volkswagen Connect Shop for up to date pricing. 'Subscriptions auto-renew at the end of their term. 'Paid subscription for one month term starts automatically (after the free trial) unless cancelled.' Customers who order the mid-spec Pro Essential (35,740) up to the ID.3 Pro S Match (39,940) will get their hands on a car with 201bhp. But, as the small print below states, they are in fact electronically limited and a monthly subscription fee can unlock the full 228bhp According to Auto Express, which uncovered this paywall on electric power, customers must stump-up 649 to permanently unlock the full performance Volkswagen has put under lock and key. By doing so entitles the car to the full power output for the rest of its lifetime, with the increase to 228bhp permanent for the next keepers of the vehicle when it changes hands. The restriction on power also limits the maximum torque, confining it to 265Nm when there's 310Nm available to those who pay the extra monthly charge. However, Volkswagen says the restricted performance does not affect the claimed range. In a statement given to Daily Mail, the company said: 'Offering more power to customers is nothing new - historically many petrol and diesel vehicles have been offered with engines of the same size, but with the possibility of choosing one with more potency. 'These traditionally are higher up in the product range, with more specification and a higher list price.' 'If customers wish to have an even sportier driving experience, they now have an option to do so, within the life of the vehicle, rather than committing from the outset with a higher initial purchase price. 'The car is presented on the configurator with [201bhp], with the option made very clear to customers.' Volkswagen is calling this performance paywall an 'optional power upgrade'. Though customers could be irked by the fact the full performance of their vehicles is locked out of reach Volkswagen is the first brand we're aware of to charge extra for power that's already available in its cars. However, other manufacturers have been paywalling features in their models for the last few years Car makers charging monthly subscriptions to unlock features is not a new tactic... Volkswagen isn't the first car firm to ask its customers to pay a monthly subscription to access features and performance already equipped in their cars. BMW in 2022 took a lot of heat when it was revealed that it was charging owners of its motors a monthly fee of 15 to access the heated seats in their expensive motors. It also wanted 10 a month to unlock the heated steering wheel, a tenner to activate high-beam assist, and 35 to turn on the adaptive cruise control system. BMW sparked outrage in 2022 when it told its customers they would need to pay a monthly subscription to add features to their car, despite the vehicle already being equipped with the technology This screengrab of BMW UK's Connected Drive section of its website in 2022 shows the different purchase and subscription options available to have heated front seats Want a heated steering wheel in your BMW for the winter only? The German brand was once charging 10 a month for the luxury Porsche also had paywalls on some features in its Taycan EVs. This includes Active Lane Keeping that was available for 18-a-month in 2022. Customers could also pay extra to have a dynamic headlight feature switched on, costing 32-a-month In the same year, we revealed that Porsche was also charging monthly subscription charges to unlock driver assistance systems in some of its high-performance models. A year later, Audi's boss said the company would ramp up availability of 'function on demand' features that would need to be unlocked with a monthly payment. Polestar owners too can pay extra for a performance pack that provides more power through software upgrades. However, this is different to the Volkswagen subscription because it is not unlocking power that's already there as standard. Finsbury Growth & Incomes Nick Train is one of Britains best known fund managers and he joins Simon Lambert on this episode of the Investing Show for an in-depth interview. Trains Warren Buffett-style investing approach has won him a legion of fans among the UKs personal investors, with years of beating the market under his belt. But markets have shunned the kind of large UK household name stocks that Train favours in recent years, shareholders have had their patience tested. In this Investing Show interview, Train explains how he has handled that period of underperformance and why he thinks it is important to stick to the trusts clearly laid out approach rather than shake things up. He says: It is no fun underperforming. And it really behoves you in those circumstances to behave in a disciplined way. I hope that we have done that. Train is optimistic for the future though, saying that he believes there is a cohort of more growth orientated companies coming through in the UK that are world class and can profit from rapid advances in technology. While investors have trained their focus on chasing up US tech giants share prices amid the artificial intelligence boom, Train says they are some FTSE-listed firms that also offer a huge opportunity to profit from the application of AI. He also discussed the prospects for two household name holdings, Guinness-maker Diageo and lucury brand Burberry that have suffered in recent years. He reveals the new stock that he has bought that fits this profile and the other companies among Finsbury Growth & Incomes concentrated portfolio that he believes are both great value and primed to perform for investors. Fears of a Budget tax raid are stoking a surge of uncertainty among customers at insurance and pensions giant Aviva. Savers have been contacting the company for advice amid 'huge speculation' about how Rachel Reeves will fill a 50billion black hole in October. Boss Amanda Blanc warned over a repeat of last year when fears of a pension tax raid sparked frenzied activity across the sector. Now, reports suggest the Chancellor could target inheritance tax by bringing in a lifetime cap on the value of gifts that people can pass on before they die. Reeves is also said to be considering a shake-up of capital gains tax following an initial raid last year. Tax raid? It has been reported that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering making changes to gifting rules in the Budget, with the aim of stopping people avoiding inheritance tax Blanc said: 'There has been a huge amount of speculation, and we also saw this in the last Budget with pensions. 'Customers should wait and see what actually happens before they take any action. It is really important you don't do anything detrimental. 'What we are seeing is more conversations in our advice arm around tax planning and how [customers] approach that. Her comments came as Aviva's results showed that profits soared 22 per cent to 1.1billion in the first six months of the year compared to 875million a year earlier, beating analyst expectations. Sales from insurance, wealth and retirement rose 9 per cent to 21.5 billion. In a boost to shareholders, Aviva hiked its half-year dividend by 10 per cent to 13.1p. Shares rose 4 per cent this morning after the update. Blanc said the integration of Direct Line is 'well underway' after Aviva snapped up its smaller rival for 3.7bn. The takeover was announced at the end of last year and completed in July. All Aviva and Direct Line staff will receive 500 worth of free shares to celebrate the 'milestone' deal. 'The combined business is a UK market leader with over 21 million customers, or 4 in 10 adults, and we are confident the deal will contribute significantly to Aviva's future growth,' Blanc said. Richard Hunter, head of markets at interactive investor, said the firm is 'going from strength to strength'. 'The obvious attractions of a group which continues to play to its strengths has resulted in the share price having risen by 35 per cent over the last year, as compared to a gain of 10.7 per cent for the wider FTSE 100 and by 71 per cent over the last two years,' Hunter said. 'Nor has appetite for the group and its prospects diminished.' Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: 'This buoyant performance has lit up the path ahead and it's meant the company sees no change to its positive guidance ahead for 2026.' HM Revenue and Customs is using artificial intelligence to snoop on suspected tax cheats' social media accounts, it has emerged. The taxman is using AI tools to scour social media posts for evidence of tax fraud and inconsistencies in income. It's the latest revelation of a government body using AI for its decision-making and processes. But if you abide by the rules you won't have to worry about AI snooping on your Instagram posts. The tax office is adamant AI tools are only used for social media monitoring in criminal investigations and with legal oversight. This isn't a new process AI has been used to monitor social media accounts for 'years', HMRC says. Snooping: HMRC is using AI tools to scour social media for evidence of tax fraud But this fresh revelation has sparked a wave of concern from experts and politicians who say there is a risk AI could get it wrong - and accuse innocent households of evading tax, the Telegraph reports. Tax experts say that this could spark case of mistaken identity if AI is used to collate information about an individual from social media. Plus, there is a risk that accounts could be hacked or fake accounts could be created which could complicate the process. But officials maintains that there are robust checks and balances in place. An HMRC spokesman said: 'Use of AI for social media monitoring is restricted to criminal investigations and subject to legal oversight. 'AI supports our processes but like all effective use of this new technology it has robust safeguards in place and does not replace human decision-making. 'Greater use of AI will enable our staff to spend less time on administration and more time helping taxpayers, as well as better target fraud and evasion to bring in more money for public services.' AI is currently used to 'streamline' administrative tasks at the Revenue including internally using chat assistants to allow better access to information and also to summarise calls for advisers so they can cut down the time it takes to wrap up a call. The revelation of HMRC's AI use comes as it is under pressure to close the tax gap the difference between the amount of tax that HMRC should be raking into its coffers and the amount it actually does. It's thought the use of AI in the Revenue will become widespread on the quest to rake in more money as it was last month revealed AI tools will spread to 'everyday' tax processes. It is hoped this will pull in an additional 7billion for the tax office. One of HMRC's new processes will be using AI tools to identify suspected tax evaders and nudge them to pay what they owe. It says AI tools will allow its staff to focus on more complex work instead of replacing jobs it says it will hire some 5,500 compliance staff. An elderly murder suspect took his own life days after the body of a teen girl was mysteriously found in a senior community. Kyelonna Meya Smiley, 15, was discovered in the apartment near 75th Avenue and Encanto Boulevard in Phoenix at 9.40am on August 4. She had been fatally shot in the head and Nohe Prado Morelia, 67, was quickly linked to the crime - though police won't say how. Four days later, Morelia was found dead with a self-inflicted gunshot wound at a business near 24th and Van Buren streets. Phoenix police said they were satisfied Morelia murdered Kyelonna, but without any idea of a motive they closed the case. Neither detectives nor Kyelonna's mother Fiyonna Austin have any idea why the teenager was even in the apartment. Kyelonna Meya Smiley, 15, was discovered fatally shot in the head in a senior community in Phoenix on August 4 Neither detectives nor Kyelonna's mother have any idea why the teenager was even in the apartment Austin said her daughter left home on August 1 and she thought she was staying with a friend. Kyelonna left home without permission several other times in the past, but always came back - but by August 4 she was worried enough to report her missing. Austin is frustrated at how little police told her, and the many unanswered questions surrounding her daughter's murder. Kyelonna, who was about to start her freshman year at Trevor Browne High School, will be laid to rest on Friday. 'Her promising life was cut short, leaving us with immense grief,' Austin said. Immigration levels are more than a third higher than the government promised. In the year to June, 457,560 permanent and long-term migrants arrived in Australia on a net basis, factoring in departures. This was 36.5 per cent higher than the 335,000 level Treasury forecast in the March Budget before the election, with new Australian Bureau of Statistics data highlighting the government's reliance on importing labour. The latest figures show immigration levels in 2024-25 were in fact higher than the 435,000 level of 2023-24, with Labor last year failing to cap international student enrolments. MacroBusiness economist David Llewellyn-Smith said Treasury wanted more foreign workers to pay taxes to fund the government's high spending. With personal income tax providing more than half of Commonwealth revenue, he said the government sees importing migrants as vital, particularly with the number of retirees expected to double over the next 40 years. The huge migrant inflows has put upward pressure on house prices which are now among the world's most expensive, and led to congestion on roads and public transport, while putting pressure on hospitals and schools. 'The easiest way to do that is to run high immigration because you get more warm bodies to tax,' he told Daily Mail Australia. Anthony Albanese 's government has relied on high immigration to cope with an ageing population - at the urging of Treasury bureaucrats (pictured is the Prime Minister in Sydney) 'That's not efficient and it doesn't raise living standards, but it does meet Treasury's KPI.' While Canberra reaps the tax revenue, state governments - especially NSW and Victoria - are left to pay for the required infrastucture, schools and hospitals to keep pace with the surging population. 'The federal Treasury benefits a great deal from immigration but the state budgets get smashed by it because they're the ones that have to do all the investment,' Mr Llewellyn-Smith said. 'That's all worn by the states, but they don't get the tax benefits from the federal government of the extra warm bodies.' Treasury isn't expected to change course, with briefs prepared for next week's Economic Reform Roundtable focusing on the ageing population, while ignoring Australia's growing reliance on income taxes from migrant workers. 'Over the next 40 years, the number of people aged 65 and over will double, and the number aged over 85 will triple,' the brief on economic resilience said. Mr Llewellyn-Smith said the government's Economic Reform Roundtable had already been taken over by Treasury bureaucrats and big business, both lobbying for high immigration to expand the labour supply. 'It's a terribly unproductive waste of time,' he said. The Treasury briefs on economic resilience, productivity and Budget sustainability all mentioned ageing, but they said nothing about rapid population growth ahead of this month's Economic Reform Roundtable (pictured are Sydney commuters) MacroBusiness economist David Llewellyn-Smith said Treasury wanted more foreign workers for the tax revenue 'Basically, the whole agenda has been consumed by vested interests before we've even got there and terrified the government. 'In theory it was a great idea but unfortunately, the federal government has a kind of fatwa on the word 'immigration' and nobody's mentioned it. They see immigration as the only viable solution to an ageing population - it's incredibly lazy.' Llewellyn-Smith argued Australia's 'immigration-led' growth was eroding productivity because population growth was outstripping investment in capital. 'When you have an immigration-led economy like Australia's, you are unproductive - that is, your population rises faster than your capital and so you get capital shallowing,' he said. 'So the quality of service declines and the efficiency of service declines in everything because immigration runs at a pace that we can't sustain investment for. 'Because you're importing cheap foreign labour, most of it low-skilled, businesses actually tend to disinvest; they have no need to invest in automating processes when they're just getting cheaper labour.' Treasury is expecting personal income tax revenue of $349.7billion to make up 51.7 per cent of its $676.1billion in tax receipts during this financial year The four men branded rapists and sex traffickers by Representative Nancy Mace want to inspect the lawmaker's tattoos to look for defamatory statements hidden in her body art, Daily Mail can reveal. Mace, 47, is believed to have had as many as nine new designs inked across her skin in the past two years to represent her status as an alleged survivor of abuse. The GOP firebrand has described the discreet etchings - mostly inspirational words and phrases as her 'stress tattoos', according to one former staffer. They include a mysterious script snaking around the congresswoman's left side, which was just visible in a December 2023 photo of Mace who announced this week she's running for South Carolina governor. Now, lawyers for several of the men she labelled 'predators' in an explosive House speech in February want to know exactly what the tats say as they prep their next legal moves. 'They will absolutely request to see all of the tattoos during discovery as the words could be defamatory,' a source familiar with their thinking confirmed to Daily Mail. Mace took to the House floor to accuse her former fiance Patrick Bryant, 51, and his associates Eric Bowman, 45, John Osborne, 44, and Brian Musgrave, 51, of 'rape, illegal filming of women, photographing of women, and sex trafficking'. She claimed she had found more than 10,000 videos of the 'gutless, evil' acts after gaining access to Bryant's phones and locating a trove of images from a supposed secret camera. South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace, 47, may land in hot water over her tattoos, one of which can be seen on her left ribcage, as the four men she accused of being rapists and sex traffickers want to see what they say Her ex-fiance Patrick Bryant is one of four men Mace took to the House floor to accuse them of 'rape, illegal filming of women, photographing of women, and sex trafficking' Mom-of-two Mace said she was one of multiple victims whom the four friends recorded without permission, though she's never made her evidence public and none of the four have faced criminal charges. Her remarks were shielded from legal action by the Constitution's 'speech and debate' clause but the protection doesn't extend to anything said or written outside Congress. 'There's a rumor that Nancy and another woman she is claiming as an alleged victim have had matching tattoos,' our source continued, but a friend of the congresswoman strongly denied this. Communications director Sydney Long issued a statement to Daily Mail saying: Congresswoman Nancy Mace is a fighter who has walked through hell and back. And the fact that anyone would fixate on her physical body after the severe physical abuse shes endured is extremely offensive. Congresswoman Mace has been very open about her PTSD diagnosis and how she chooses to heal is her decision alone. But the source close to the four men said: 'If there's any hint of a coordinated campaign to take down these men, their lawyers will demand to see it, irrespective of whether it's written in an email, a text or tattooed on someone's skin. 'Early polls suggest Mace has a slight edge in the Palmetto State's gubernatorial primary in a crowded field that includes Alan Wilson, South Carolina's longtime Attorney General, and US Rep. Ralph Norman. South Carolina businessman Eric Bowman, 45 was also accused by Mace, who claimed he retaliated by posting a barrage of 'vile, contemptible, and repugnant character attacks' on X Mace also publicly accused her ex-fiance's associates John Osborne (left) and Brian Musgrave, who filed a federal lawsuit against her saying her claims weren't true and that they destroyed the lives of himself and his family She goes into the race already ensnared in multiple lawsuits stemming from her notorious 'scorched earth' speech. The two-time divorcee sued Bowman for libel in May, claiming he responded to her allegations by posting a barrage of 'vile, contemptible, and repugnant character attacks' to X. She's also the target of a federal lawsuit filed by Musgrave, who denies sex trafficking and says her accusations wrecked the lives of himself and his family. His complaint claims Mace spoke to Bowman and her former campaign manager Wesley Donehue about hacking into Bryant's phone after their 2023 split. The pair were in the midst of a $5 million property dispute over their shared homes in Washington, D.C. and the Isle of Palms, South Carolina, and Mace wanted 'leverage', Donehue said. She allegedly told another colleague, John Mason Long, she had fitted an Apple AirTag device to Bryant's car which he 'later discovered and confronted her about.' 'Recruiting others to assist in hacking a phone or gathering incriminating evidence for personal pursuits is not within the course of scope of one's employment as a member of the United States Congress,' Musgrave's suit argues. Of the four men accused by Mace, Bryant is the only one who has been investigated by SLED, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Department. He denies any wrongdoing and has not been charged with a crime. The pair got engaged in summer 2022, but Mace claimed in late 2023 that she had broken things off with the software entrepreneur after catching him on a dating app. When asked about his former boss's breakup in an April 28 deposition, Donehue said: 'She was losing a lot of weight, she was getting what she called stress tattoos.' Bryant was at Mace's side when she celebrated victory in the GOP primary election for a South Carolina US House seat in June 2022 Bryant got down on one knee to propose to Mace in May 2022, but the bloom quickly went off the rose and they split the following year Mace is also alleged to have discussed tattoos with a former girlfriend of Bryant whom she sought out to ask if he had ever been violent. 'Nancy made multiple allegations against Patrick, including that he engaged in acts of sexual assault and intimate partner violence,' the woman said in a sworn statement seen by Daily Mail. The affidavit, which is yet to be filed in connection with a specific case, goes on: 'She [Mace] did not reference breaking up with Patrick due to finding his profile on a dating app, which was the reason she had given to the media previously.' She also stated that she'd never had tattoos, but since the purported assault, she had gotten nine (9) tattoos so she could 'feel the pain'. The daughter of a United States one-star general, Mace grew up on military bases and was the first woman to graduate from The Citadel, the storied South Carolina military college, in 1999. She made a run at the Senate in 2014 but lost to Lindsey Graham in the primary before becoming a social media director for the Trump 2016 campaign. After representing the 99th district in the South Carolina House from 2018 to 2020, she beat Democrat incumbent Joe Cunningham to become the first Republican woman to be elected to the US Congress from the Palmetto State. As the battle between the congresswoman and the four men rages, she announced last week that she's running for South Carolina governor Mace notably teamed up with Matt Gaetz and six other GOP rebels in the headline-grabbing 2023 ouster of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. And last November she took aim at Delaware Democrat Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender person to be elected to the US House of Representatives, insisting lawmakers should use the bathroom corresponding to their biological sex. Bryant, Bowman and Osborne are also being sued for battery, conspiracy and inflicting emotional distress by a Jane Doe who says she was raped and photographed while incapacitated on a couch at Bowman's home in October 2018. The victim said she learned about the attack when Mace contacted her to say she had 'found a video on Bryant's phone of her being sexually assaulted by Osborne.' Bowman has denied that any such attack took place and told Daily Mail that Mace's sex trafficking accusations are 'outrageous'. Osborne told The Post & Courier: 'The claims are categorically untrue, and it is completely unfair to be looped into such accusations.' Pupils are celebrating a bumper year for A-level results after scoring record top grades outside of the pandemic years. In Rutland, East Midlands, a jaw-dropping 41 per cent of all entries were graded A or A* - making it the best-performing region in the UK. Across all regions, 28.3 per cent of pupils got A/A* this year, compared with 27.8 per cent last year, and 25.4 per cent in 2019. Outside of the Covid years of 2020-2022, when grades were vastly inflated due to teacher assessment, this is the highest proportion on record. In addition, 9.4 per cent of entries got A* grades this year almost 1 in 10 up from 9.3 per cent last year and 7.7 per cent in 2019 making this also a non-pandemic record. The top results meant a record 439,180 were accepted onto degree courses, up 3.1 per cent on the same point last year. Ofqual said this morning results are 'stable' and suggested any changes could be due to the fact that this year students are cleverer. This is due to them being the first cohort since the pandemic to have GCSE grading returned to normal so harder putting less able students off taking A-levels. Students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their exam results on this morning, coordinated by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). Use our interactive tool below to check the results in your area Your browser does not support iframes. Students recieve their results at a school in South London Pupils are celebrating a bumper year for A-level results after scoring record top grades outside of the pandemic years (pictured: pupils at Solihill School) Pupils celebrate their results at Solihill School A student celebrates with her parents at Solihill School Pupils receive their results at the Latimers Arts College, Barton Seagrave, Northamptonshire Ark Academy London pupils open their A-level results Pupils gather at Solihill School to pick up their results Solihill School pupils pick up their results Students at Ark Academy London open their results The figures also show boys have outperformed girls in terms of top grades for the first time in seven years. KEY STATISTICS A total of 28.3% of entries were awarded either an A or A*, up from 27.8% in 2024 and above 25.4% in 2019. Some 9.4% of entries received an A*. This is also up on last year (9.3%) and higher than the figure for 2019 (7.7%). There were 77.9% of entries that received a C or above, up from 76.4% in 2024 and above the pre-pandemic figure of 75.9% in 2019. The overall pass rate (grades A* to E) was 97.5%. This is up from 97.2% in 2024 but below 2019, which was 97.6%. Across the regions of England, London saw the highest proportion of entries awarded grades of A or A* (32.1%, up from 31.3% in 2024) while north-east England had the lowest (22.9%, down from 23.9% in 2024). The gap between these two regions now stands at 9.2 percentage points, up from 7.4 points last year and the largest since the present system of grading began in 2010. Some 30.4% of entries in Northern Ireland received A or A*, higher than the equivalent figure for Wales (29.5%) and England (28.2%). The proportion of boys' entries awarded A or A* this year was 28.4%, 0.2 percentage points higher than the equivalent figure for girls' entries (28.2%). Last year, girls led boys by 0.4 percentage points (28.0% for girls, 27.6% for boys). The proportion of boys' entries awarded A* this year was 9.9%, 0.8 points higher than girls (9.1%). Last year, boys led girls by 0.4 percentage points (9.5% for boys, 9.1% for girls). Boys led girls at A* from 2012 through to 2019, before girls moved in front during the pandemic-affected years of 2020-22, after which boys reclaimed a lead in 2023. The most popular subject this year was maths, for the 12th year in a row. It had 112,138 entries, up 4.4% from 107,427 in 2024. Psychology remains the second most popular subject. It had 75,943 entries, down 3.3% from 78,556 in 2024. Biology was once again the third most popular subject, with 71,400 entries, a fall of 4.0% from 74,367. Business studies has entered the top five most popular subjects for the first time, ranking in fifth place and replacing history which has dropped to seventh. Physics has jumped from ninth place to sixth. A total of 882,509 A-levels were awarded this year, down 0.5% on last year's 886,514. Advertisement And the overall pass rate the proportion of entries graded A* to E has also risen to 97.5 per cent this year, which is up on last year (97.2 per cent) and the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (97.6 per cent). Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator of Ofqual, England's exams regulator, said the standard of work required to achieve grades has 'held constant' since 2023. He said any changes were because a 'smaller, smarter cohort' of students had sat their A-level exams this year compared to previous years. Sir Ian said: 'Students this year have got the grades they deserve, and their grade will hold its value over time because it represents a stable standard of achievement.' The Covid-19 pandemic led to an increase in top grades in 2020 and 2021, with results based on teacher assessments instead of exams. In 2022, grading was brought half way back to normal. This cohort of school and college leavers received their GCSE results in 2023, the first year that grading was returned to pre-pandemic levels in England. The Ofqual chief said it meant this year's cohort was smaller because 'fewer students met the bar' to begin A-level courses two years ago, when GCSE grading was returned to normal. Sir Ian added: 'So it is a smaller cohort and, judged in terms of GCSE attainment, it's a higher-achieving cohort than has been the case for the past few years.' However, experts yesterday said the results were surprising given officials had previously said they wanted grades to return to pre-pandemic levels. Professor Alan Smithers, director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research at Buckingham University, said: This looks like grade inflation. 'Grades are certainly going up, when they should be going down to return to pre-pandemic standards. 'It may seem only a small increase, but given 882,509 entries it means 4,400 extra top grades of A*/A. 'That is on top of the increases last year, and 2023 not being brought down to the 2019 level as was intended. Iain Mansfield, head of education at the Policy Exchange think tank, said: 'This year's bumper grades suggests Ofqual still has a little more work to do in squeezing out the grade inflation that crept in during the COVID pandemic. 'That said, there were slightly fewer A-Level entries this year, so some of the rise could be explained by students having been more selective about their choice of A-Levels.' And Barnaby Lenon, former head of Harrow and Dean at the University of Buckingham, said: I think it is likely that the students this year were indeed slightly better than last year or that, having more reliable GCSE grades, they chose their A-level subjects more wisely. However, it is important that the results do not get better every year (grade inflation) because then the top 20 universities and medical schools will be forced to have even more of their own tests to allow them to distinguish within the big group of A*/A students. In England, 11,909 students received their T-level results in the fourth year that the qualification has been awarded and 91.4 per cent achieved at least a pass. The number of T-level entries has increased by 61.4 per cent on last year, while the number of A-level entries has fallen by 0.5 per cent compared to 2024. Overall, 28.4 per cent of boys' A-level entries scored an A* or A this summer, compared to 28.2 per cent of their female classmates' entries a gap of 0.2 percentage points. The last time boys had a lead was in 2018. Last year, girls were ahead with 28.0 per cent of entries scoring at least an A, compared to 27.6 per cent of those from boys, the latest figures show. Students who are receiving their A-level, T-level and Level 3 vocational and technical qualification (VTQ) results were in Year 8 when schools closed because of the pandemic. Twins Erin and Manon Higgins, 18, both bagged two A*s and an A at Crickhowell High School in South Wales Roedean pupil Flora Mitchell reads her results with goats at school after landing A*AAA in Biology, Chemistry, Latin and Maths Gabrielle Morgan receives her results at Dame Allen's School in Newcastle Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson visited Trafford College, Altrincham, Greater Manchester for A-level results day Mrs Phillipson posed for photos with students receiving their results at Trafford College Mrs Phillipson visited Trafford College with students opening their A-level results Education leaders have warned of 'stark' divides in results between different regions because of the legacy of Covid-19 and socio-economic factors. The latest Ofqual figures show wide regional differences in outcomes, with the North East the only region in England to see a drop in the proportion of top grades down on last year and 2019. It has led to fears that disadvantaged regions have not recovered following disruption from the pandemic. Schools were closed during the national lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, with teachers laying on remote learning. However, some disadvantaged pupils did not have digital devices to view lessons on, or anywhere quiet to work. It meant they fell further behind their better-resourced peers. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. The gap between the proportion of A-level entries in London awarded the highest grades and those in north-east England is at its widest since the current system of grading was introduced. GRADE PERCENTAGES BY REGION Here are the percentages of A-level entries awarded the top grade of A* by nation and region in 2025, with the equivalent figures for both 2024 and the pre-pandemic year of 2019: North-east England 6.8% (2024: 7.8%; 2019: 6.7%) North-west England 8.3% (2024: 8.0%; 2019: 6.9%) Yorkshire & the Humber 7.7% (2024: 7.4%; 2019: 6.5%) West Midlands 7.4% (2024: 7.9%; 2019: 6.3%) East Midlands 7.4% (2024: 6.8%; 2019: 5.8%) Eastern England 9.3% (2024: 9.1%; 2019: 7.9%) South-west England 8.9% (2024: 8.8; 2019: 8.0%) South-east England 11.0% (2024: 10.9%; 2019: 9.0%) London 11.6% (2024: 11.3%; 2019: 8.7%) England 9.4% (2024: 9.3%; 2019: 7.7%) Wales 10.5% (2024: 10.1%; 2019: 8.9%) Northern Ireland 8.7% (2024: 8.2%; 2019: 8.0%) All 9.4% (2024: 9.3%; 2019: 7.7%) Here are the percentages of A-level entries awarded A or A*, by nation and region: North-east England 22.9% (2024: 23.9%; 2019: 23.0%) North-west England 26.6% (2024: 25.5%; 2019: 23.5%) Yorkshire & the Humber 25.3% (2024: 24.6%; 2019: 23.2%) West Midlands 24.2% (2024: 24.8%; 2019: 22.0%) East Midlands 23.8% (2024: 22.5%; 2019: 21.0%) Eastern England 28.0% (2024: 27.5%; 2019: 25.6%) South-west England 27.0% (2024: 26.9%; 2019: 25.8%) South-east England 31.2% (2024: 30.8%; 2019: 28.3%) London 32.1% (2024: 31.3%; 2019: 26.9%) England 28.2% (2024: 27.6%; 2019: 25.2%) Wales 29.5% (2024: 29.9%; 2019: 26.5%) Northern Ireland 30.4% (2024: 30.3%; 2019: 29.4%) All 28.3% (2024: 27.8%; 2019: 25.4%) Here are the percentages of A-level entries awarded C or above, by nation and region: North-east England 74.9% (2024: 74.4%; 2019: 76.3%) North-west England 78.2% (2024: 75.9%; 2019: 75.6%) Yorkshire & the Humber 76.8% (2024: 74.4%; 2019: 74.7%) West Midlands 74.2% (2024: 73.4%; 2019: 72.8%) East Midlands 73.6% (2024: 71.8%; 2019: 73.0%) Eastern England 77.8% (2024: 76.1%; 2019: 75.7%) South-west England 77.3% (2024: 76.3%; 2019: 76.0%) South-east England 79.45% (2024: 78.1%; 2019: 78.0%) London 79.54% (2024: 77.5%; 2019: 74.8%) England 77.7% (2024: 76.0%; 2019: 75.5%) Wales 77.2% (2024: 76.5%; 2019: 76.3%) Northern Ireland 85.8% (2024: 85.1%; 2019: 85.0%) All 77.9% (2024: 76.4%; 2019: 75.9%) Advertisement Some 32.1 per cent of entries in the capital were awarded A or A* this year, the highest for any region in England and up from 31.3 per cent in 2024. By contrast, north-east England had the lowest regional percentage this year at 22.9 per cent, down from 23.9 per cent in 2024. The gap between these two regions now stands at 9.2 percentage points, up from 7.4 points last year and the largest since the present system of grading began in 2010. North-east England is one of just two regions to see a year-on-year drop in entries receiving top grades, the other being West Midlands (down from 24.8 per cent to 24.2 per cent). It is also the only region where the proportion of entries awarded A or A* this year, 22.9 per cent, is lower than the equivalent figure in the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (23.0 per cent). For entries receiving the top grade of A*, London again had the highest proportion (11.6 per cent, up from 11.3 per cent) and north-east England the lowest (6.8 per cent, down from 7.8 per cent). The gap here of 4.8 percentage points is wider than in 2024 (3.5 points) but not as large as during the pandemic, when it reached 6.8 points in 2021. North-east England and the West Midlands are the only regions to see a year-on-year fall in entries receiving A*. By contrast, all regions reported a year-on-year increase in the proportion of entries awarded a grade C or higher, with London and south-east England almost tied on the highest percentage (79.54 per cent and 79.45 per cent respectively) and the East Midlands having the lowest (73.6 per cent). At a national level, 30.4 per cent of entries in Northern Ireland received A or A*, higher than the equivalent figure for Wales (29.5 per cent) and England (28.2 per cent). For entries awarded C or above, Northern Ireland was ahead at 85.8 per cent, above England (77.7 per cent) and Wales (77.2 per cent). Jill Duffy, chairwoman of JCQ board of directors and chief executive of the OCR exam board, said: 'Regional inequalities are getting worse, not better. 'The gap at top grades (A*-A) has grown again. London is once again the top performing region and is now 9.2 percentage points ahead of the North East.' She added: 'These regional inequalities need more attention.' The figures were also stark between school types, with state school entries only achieving A* with 8 per cent of entries, while for private schools it was 20 per cent. The difference may fuel anger among families who say they have had to leave the private sector this year due to Labour's new VAT on fees, which critics say is making elite education even more exclusive. The statistics also show interest in A-level maths has soared in the last decade, with entries for the subject up by more than a fifth 21.7 per cent in the last 10 years. But there is a clear gender divide, with boys significantly more likely to choose the subject than girls. There were 70,255 boys' entries for A-level maths this year, compared to 41,883 girls' entries both up on 2024. Ms Duffy added: 'There are still significantly fewer girls taking A-level maths, and proportionally there are fewer girls taking the subject than in 2019.' Exam board executives also suggested social media influencers may be fuelling interest in A-level economics and business studies among students keen to enjoy similar success in making money. The current generation of young people have an 'entrepreneurial spirit' and are choosing subjects that will help open up career opportunities, according to exam bosses. New figures show a rise in entries for A-levels in both economics and business studies this year with business studies entering the top five subjects for the first time. Your browser does not support iframes. Nottingham High School students Sienna, Farah,Thaamvi, Issa, Krish,Joe,Will, and Nitha celebrate after receiving their A Level results Pupils pose with their exam results at Solihill School Claire Thomson, executive director of regulation and compliance at the AQA exam board said both subjects have a 'real world relevance' which helps students understands how the world works and businesses operate. She said: 'They are clearly relevant for lots of career opportunities whether its finance, marketing, management. BEST RESULTS IN BRITAIN? Datis Reyhani, 18, is celebrating today after achieving what are thought to be the best results in Britain after scooping an astonishing 7 A-levels - 5 at A* and 2 at A. The teenager, a pupil at Brighton College, was overjoyed when he found out he had A* in Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Persian and Computer Science as well as As in Further Maths and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). His results are not only the best in his prestigious school but thought to be the highest in Britain. Datis Reyhani celebrates his results Datis is now heading to St Catharines College, Cambridge where he will read Mechanical Engineering. He chose St Catharines for its course after receiving offers from the worlds best universities, including Yale. But as well as being an amazing academic, Datis had a full and varied part in life at the 45,000-a-year Brighton College. A versatile dancer, he participated in the schools Strictly competition and was also president of their award-winning robotics club. Datis is also Sussex archery champion, won an Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, and achieved a Gold in the Physics and Chemistry Olympiads. He also likes to keep busy in his spare time and enjoys going on climbing expeditions with his school friends. Delighted with his results, he said: I cant believe it! When I joined Brighton College at the age of 11, I never realised what I would be able to achieve. I am so happy! Brighton College is celebrating with more A-level A* than ever before - 10 times the national average. Head Steve Marshall-Taylor said: At Brighton College, we know that what underpins this success is that our young people can truly be themselves, thanks to the kind and generous culture that is behind all we do. Self-evidently children who are happy in their own skins are children who flourish. Advertisement 'I also wonder if theres a little bit about the social media phenomenon these days and the amount of influencers people see making what seems like lots of money, and that idea of gaining some entrepreneurial skills so that they can go out and emulate the people that they see all the time on social media.' Ms Thomson added these A-level subjects involve critical thinking, problem-solving and data analysis skills which lend themselves to many vocational and higher education opportunities. Ms Duffy added that it was good to see an increase in interest for the subjects. She said: 'I think its true, we see a very entrepreneurial spirit in this generation of young people. Theyve often got side hustles going on.' Figures published by JCQ show a 5.5 per cent increase in entries for A-level economics this year, compared to 2024, while business studies entries are up 0.6 per cent. Business studies entry into the top five most popular subjects means it is the first time a humanities subject has not been in the top five since the current grading system began. Meanwhile, figures published by Ucas, the official admissions body, found overall, 82 per cent of UK 18-year-old applicants awaiting a decision on results day secured their first choice which was the same proportion as last year. For 18-year-olds in the UK, 255,130 applicants have been accepted onto a university or college course up 4.7 per cent on last year. The number of international students who have been accepted on to undergraduate courses has risen by 2.9 per cent from 51,170 last year to 52,640. Accepted applicants from China 12,380 are up 13 per cent compared with last year. There has also been an 6 per cent increase in the number of 18-year-olds from the most deprived areas gaining a place at university, with 35,920 accepted students from the most deprived fifth of the population. It follows a drive at universities to boost equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) by accepting more disadvantaged students. Many have been making 'contextual offers' to take into account barriers they have faced in their studies. This could include being from a deprived area, being a care leaver or having been eligible for free school meals. Many universities allow students to be admitted with a few grades lower than official entry requirements. Others run extra foundation courses for students with grades as low as EEE to help them catch up before they are fed into main degree programmes. Universities adopted the strategies after the Office for Students regulator told them they must make progress in helping poorer students by the 2024/25 academic year. However, the move has been controverial among traditionalists, who say course should maintain standards. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Jo Saxton, chief executive of Ucas, said: 'This year's students were just thirteen when the pandemic hit, and their secondary schooling was turned upside down. 'It's great to see these applicants securing a university place in record numbers, seeking more education and investing in their futures. DOUBLE SUCCESS FOR TWINS! Twins Hannah and Mairi Duncan, 18, at Roedean School, both scored a string of top grades. The pair, who are the children of two NHS anaesthetists, are both off to study medicine. Hannah and Mairi Duncan Hannah, who scored A*s in Biology and Latin and As in Chemistry and History, is heading to Sheffield University while Mairi, who achieved A* in Biology and History and As in Chemistry and Religious Studies, is heading to Somerville College, Oxford. Mairi explained: 'Roedean has a strong womens history as does Somerville and I was quite keen on that.' Advertisement 'I am equally delighted to see how universities across the country have responded to their ambition. 'For any student who didn't quite get the grades they were hoping for, or even those still yet to apply, there are plenty of options in clearing with around 27,000 available courses. 'Ucas experts are also available on the phones, on social media and on the Ucas website, to help all those deciding on the next step that's right for them.' Mark Corver, a former director at both UCAS and dataHE, said: 'The central message in the data this year is that universities really want UK students. 'That was clear from high offer rates, and it was made clear again today with increases in success rates giving record numbers of 18 year olds with a university place. 'Weve come full circle since 2022 when UK teenagers had a miserable time with falling grades and a tough stance on UK numbers. 'And if potential students have held back, it is not too late, many universities are now welcome late applications directly into UCAS Clearing.' This morning, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has said there has been a 'steadying of the ship' after the disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, she said: 'What we've seen is a steadying of the ship, both this year and last following some of the disruption that we saw during the pandemic. 'These are young people who have not had disruption in recent times, but have had the full normal assessment process. 'These are also young people who would have been the first to sit GCSEs under normal circumstances. So they've gone through the full regular GCSE cycle that you would have expected before the pandemic. 'So, this is a normal year, the kind of year that we would have seen before the pandemic hit.' She also said later: 'Every single young person collecting their results today should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams whether that starts with further study, university, an apprenticeship or the world of work but, too often, opportunities depend on background rather than talent. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. She added that she was particularly worried about the poor progress of 'white working class children'. 'The entrenched divide in outcomes seen over the last few years and the lack of progress for children from white working-class backgrounds is particularly concerning,' she said. And speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today Programme, she added: 'Alongside the post-16 white paper that we'll be publishing later on this year, I will also bring a big focus through our schools white paper on how we tackle these thorny generational challenges where white working-class kids across our country don't get the start that they deserve. 'Now the school system is an important part of how we respond to that, but I would say alongside it so much of this develops and opens up in the early years. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. 'The attainment gap that we see between less well-off students and better-off students opens up before the age of five. 'It's why early years has been such a priority, because if we get that right then we set up children to succeed, but we will take more action in the school system to ensure that those gaps that we see, those yawning inequalities, are addressed. 'It's something the last government failed to tackle. It is something this Government will grasp.' Scotland has a different qualification system and students received their results on Tuesday last week. Figures released by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) showed that 78.4 per cent of those sitting National 5 exams passed with grades A to C up from 77.2 per cent last year. For Highers, 75.9 per cent passed with the top bands, up from 74.9 per cent last year, and for Advanced Highers 76.7 per cent of students achieved A to C grades, up from 75.3 per cent last year. Advertisement View the full A-level results day 2025 statistics with the Daily Mail's collection of graphics. A-level A* and A rate by county and subject: 2025 This map shows the percentage of pupils who earned the top A* or A grades at A-level in every county in England. You can chose a county by hovering over it or using the search bar. The map's default view is for all subjects, but it can be filtered by individual subject. For a more detailed breakdown, including historic results by county and your chosen tap or click on a map area, or type in the 'Search county...' box. Your browser does not support iframes. A-level results by subject: 200825 The chart below shows the the percentage of pupils who achieved each grade A* to U in England for each year between 2008 and 2025. You can select the results for each subject, such as maths, English or physics, to see how well students did. Your browser does not support iframes. A-level results at private vs state schools: 201925 The below bar chart shows how A-level pupils performed at state schools versus independent (private) schools. You can see the percentage of pupils who received an A* or A, a B to C and a D or below. The three line charts below represent the percentage of pupils at state and private schools who earned an A and above and a C and above. You can look at all subjects or filter to specific subjects with both charts. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. A-level results by gender: 200825 The below line graphs show what percentage of male and female pupils earned an A or above and C or above from 2008 to 2025. As with all of our charts, it can be filtered by subject. Your browser does not support iframes. A-level subject popularity: 200825 The graph below shows how many entries there have been into each A-level subject from 2008 to 2025. You can select up to five subjects at once to compare which ones are the most popular and how they have changed over time. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. More A-level results day charts We have a selection of more charts below, including the results this year vs last, how results compare across the UK nations (excluding Scotland where pupils sit Highers, not A-levels), and the number of pupils accepted onto their first choice university course. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Council houses worth more than half a million pounds have been seized from fraudsters after a probe found that they already owned their own property. Hackney Council in north London confiscated seven homes, redistributing them to those most in need who had been on the waiting list for social housing for some time. The council removed the owners from the properties after an investigation revealed they already owned other properties and had been subletting their council houses for personal financial gain. The investigation discovered a total of 27 potential cases and 13 remain under ongoing investigation while another seven houses are in the process of being given to families ready to move in. The shocking fraud was discovered following a pilot scheme collaboration between the Cabinet Office's Public Sector Fraud Authority and Hackney Council. Tenants registered to the properties were found to have broken social housing rules by not declaring that they owned another property, with some illegally sub-letting their social home for personal financial gain. Four of the seven properties were two-beds with a minimum of two tenants while the remaining three were single bed homes. The collaboration between the Cabinet Office's Public Sector Fraud Authority and Hackney Council used data matching to track down the individuals. Hackney Council in north London confiscated seven homes, redistributing them to those most in need who had been on the waiting list for social housing for some time (Pictured: Hackney Town Hall) Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney, said it was essential to tackle fraudulent use of social housing so homes could go to those most in need A computer system operated by the Cabinet Office cross checked social tenancy data with separate data from HMRC to identify people who may have purchased a home while still being registered at a council property. The project identified 27 potential cases of council-owned social housing properties being fraudulently misused in the borough. Investigators discovered that the previous seven tenants had owned other property for more two years. The recovered properties, worth 548,100, will now be reallocated to families most in need who have been on the waist list. Seven further properties are also in the process of being recovered and will be given to families with genuine housing needs while a further 13 cases remain under investigation. Cabinet Office Minister, Georgia Gould said: 'Every council property that is fraudulently occupied denies a home to a family who genuinely needs it. 'The work being done by the Public Sector Fraud Authority and local councils like Hackney demonstrates how effective data matching can be in tackling this kind of fraud. Working together, we can make sure public resources are used where they are most needed - and crack down on those who try to manipulate the system for their own gain.' The probe was a collaboration between the Cabinet Office's Public Sector Fraud Authority and Hackney Council (Whitehall pictured) The National Fraud Initiative compares information across public sector datasets to identify discrepancies that may indicate fraudulent activity. This approach is currently being implemented across all local authorities in the UK as part of the government's broader strategy to protect public resources and ensure they reach those who truly need them. Caroline Woodley, Mayor of Hackney said: 'Hackney is facing a critical housing shortage, and it's crucial that Council homes are made available for allocation to those who need it most. The Council, working with the National Fraud Initiative, is demonstrating how the intelligent use of data and expertise across agencies can tackle the fraudulent use of social housing head on. 'Our combined efforts to tackle tenancy fraud are already recovering illegally sublet homes so they can be allocated to some of the thousands of households waiting for a good and affordable home to live in getting them out of hostels and unsuitable temporary accommodation, and stopping criminals from profiting from Council-owned social housing.' The North-South divide in the number of students awarded the highest grades has reached record levels following this year's release of A-level results. The margin of students achieving A* and A grades in London and the North East has stretched to 9.2 percentage points, up from 7.4 points last year and the largest since the present system of grading began in 2010. Meanwhile, exam figures also show boys have outperformed girls in terms of top grades for the first time in seven years. Boys achieved more A* to A grades by 0.2 percentage points to girls this year with an increased take up of mathematics courses credited as a possible reason. It comes as record numbers of 18-year-olds across England, Wales and Northern Ireland have secured places at universities and colleges after receiving their A-levels on results day. Ucas figures show the total number of students accepted on to UK degree courses has risen by 3.1 per cent on the same point last year, with 439,180 taking up places so far. This live page has closed It's a grainy image, taken from a distance at night, showing a casually dressed dark- haired man walking hand-in-hand with a blonde in a strapless black dress. The caption was simple and direct: 'My husband and his girlfriend holding hands.' Beside it a heart emoji and a clip of the song Another by The Notorious B.I.G. That image was posted as an Instagram story and quickly taken down in the early hours of Sunday morning, by former First Daughter Ashley Biden and speaks volumes about the end of her marriage to plastic surgeon Howard Krein. The two figures are not immediately identifiable in the photo, but Ashley's barbed caption was clear as was the Biggie Smalls song about the pain of infidelity. The post came just hours after it was revealed Ashley, 44, had filed for a divorce from Krein in a Philadelphia court on Monday after 13 years of marriage. And legal filings obtained by Daily Mail reveal Ashley is now requesting spousal support from her estranged husband. She is 'unable to sustain herself' while their case is pending, the filing reads. The couple lived together in Philadelphia, where Krein, 58, works as an otolaryngologist and plastic surgeon at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. But Ashley was staying out of sight, believed to be holed up in their $1.3million home on Tuesday afternoon, when Daily Mail spotted take-out food being delivered to the gated three-bedroom house. The now-deleted Instagram story appeared to show Ashley's plastic surgeon husband Howard Krein, 59, holding hands with another woman The couple married in Greenville, Delaware, in 2012, after meeting two years earlier through Ashley's late brother Beau, who died from cancer in 2015 Her best friend Mechelle Lavelle was seen entering the property wheeling a small suitcase, suggesting Ashley has had emotional support amid her split. Earlier, Ashley seemed to allude to her divorce in another now-deleted Instagram story that showed her walking through a park as she gave a thumbs up to the tune of the song Freedom by Beyonce. She also reposted a quote to Instagram that read: 'New life, means new boundaries. New ways of being that won't look or sound like they did before.' She accompanied the quote with Lauryn Hill's song Freedom Time. Divorce documents filed by her attorney Charles Meyer reveal she is requesting a no-fault divorce, stating that the marriage is 'irretrievably broken' and that she plans to submit an affidavit consenting to a divorce and believes Krein may do the same. She asked that after 90 days, the court issue a decree of divorce if both she and her husband file their affidavits consenting to the formal dissolution of their marriage. The filings note that she and Krein are living 'separate and apart' and that she will file the required affidavit at an 'appropriate time'. Ashley also asked the court to order Krein to pay her spousal support while their divorce goes through, as well as keeping her as a beneficiary on his life and health insurance policies. Ashley, the only biological child of Joe and Jill Biden who Forbes estimated to be worth around $10million says she 'lacks sufficient property to provide for her reasonable needs and is unable to sustain herself through appropriate employment in accordance with the standard of living established during the marriage'. Ashley is Joe Biden's youngest daughter and his only biological child with first lady Jill Biden She also wants her estranged husband to pay her legal bills and expenses. Ashley has hired attorneys Hofstein Weiner & Meyer P.C, which bills itself on its website as 'a boutique law firm devoted exclusively to domestic relations, focusing on the negotiation and litigation of complex family law matters'. In a sign of what her estranged husband could expect in a courtroom showdown, the law firm adds on its website: 'While the goal always is to negotiate and resolve matters, the firm's attorneys are prepared to effectively and zealously advocate for their clients and litigate all matters.' But it seems she is keen to avoid a messy legal battle, adding in her court filing that she is 'willing to negotiate a fair and reasonable settlement of all matters' with her soon-to-be ex. Requesting an equal split of all property acquired during their marriage, she adds in the document: 'In the event that a written settlement agreement is entered prior to the final disposition of this action, plaintiff desires that such written settlement agreement be approved by the court and incorporated, but not merged, in any divorce decree, which may be entered dissolving the marriage between the parties.' Ashley married Krein in Greenville, Delaware, in 2012. The ceremony took place at the church where Ashley was baptized, People magazine reported at the time. The former couple met two years earlier through Biden's late brother Beau, who died from cancer in 2015. Ashley and Krein were last seen together publicly in the Oval Office in June 2024, when her father announced he was quitting the presidential race Ashley has a master's degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania and has worked for criminal justice reform in the state. She spoke about her wedding reception at the Biden family's lakeside estate in Wilmington when she introduced her father at the Democratic National Convention in 2024. 'At the time, my dad was vice president, but he was also that dad who literally set up the entire reception,' she said in her speech. 'He was riding around in his John Deere four-wheeler, fixing the place settings, arranging the plants, and by the way, he was very emotional.' Ashley is the only biological child of Jill Biden, who married then-Senator Joe Biden after the tragic death of his first wife Neilia and their toddler daughter Naomi in a 1972 crash. Their two sons, Beau, then three, and Hunter, two, were injured when a truck plowed into their car. The last time she Ashley and Krein were publicly seen together was in the Oval Office in June 2024 when Joe spoke to the nation to announce that he was pulling out of the presidential race following a disastrous televised debate against Donald Trump. While she has mostly stayed out of the spotlight, earlier this year Ashley vocally defended Joe Biden against claims that he had been cognitively unfit during his last months in the White House. In June, she shared a beach photo of herself with her parents and wrote: 'I am so grateful. too grateful to be angry about all this bulls**t.' Neither Ashley Biden nor Howard Krein could be reached for comment. Britons risk 'losing sight' of Christian history, leading atheist historian Alice Roberts has said. The academic, 52, told BBC History Magazine that Christianity is a 'compelling and important' part of British culture and appeared to lament the fact that belief is on the decline. Professor Roberts spoke out ahead of the publication of her new book about the collapse of the Roman Empire and the rise of Christianity in Western nations. Her comments appear to be an about-turn from previous abrasive remarks she has made about religion on social media. Professor Roberts, the former president of secular campaign group Humanists UK, was previously criticised for posting a 'reminder' on X on Good Friday in 2021 that 'dead people - don't come back to life'. One critic sarcastically branded her remark 'very edgy', while another asked: 'You gonna denigrate every world religion or just the easy target?' She has also claimed that schools run by the Church of England are part of an 'indoctrination programme' and has criticised the idea of collective worship in state education. Professor Roberts' new book, Domination: The Fall of the Roman Empire and the Rise of Christianity, is out at the end of this month. Britons risk 'losing sight' of Christian history, leading atheist historian Alice Roberts has said Professor Roberts, the former president of secular campaign group Humanists UK, was previously criticised for posting a 'reminder' on X on Good Friday in 2021 that 'dead people - don't come back to life' Speaking to promote the title, she told BBC History Magazine: 'I think Christianity is a compelling and important part of our culture. 'As society becomes more secular, and biblical knowledge declines, we risk losing sight of Christian history.' But she added there is still a tendency to 'obscure' Christianity's early history and instead treat it as if it appeared 'fully formed'. 'For me, it's about cultural evolution: understanding where it began, who adopted it and who helped spread it. I hope I've explored that as objectively as possible,' she said. Her book charts the collapse the Roman empire and the spread of Christian belief throughout Europe and the world from the first century onwards. Professor Roberts also argued that claims of Christianity's 'radical uniqueness' are 'often overstated'. She highlighted 'strong parallels' with 'other cults', including worship of the Roman god Mithras and said that the notion that Christianity 'invented' the concept of charity is false. Bijan Omrani, the author of recent book God is an Englishman: Christianity and the Creation of England, welcomed Professor Roberts' acknowledgement of the importance of the religion, but called for her to go further. King Charles III is crowned by the Archbishop of Canterbury at his coronation in May 2023 A study last October concluded that Britain is entering its first 'atheist age' as parents fail to pass on religious beliefs to their children. Above: A donkey is led at the head of a procession across Putney Bridge for a Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025 He told the Daily Mail: 'It's wonderful to see Alice Roberts finally acknowledging the importance of Christian culture. 'Still, she doesn't yet give it full credit for its world-changing achievements. 'For example, the ideas of charity in Christianity are far more radical than anything from Classical thought. 'But as she's come this far, it's time for her also to acknowledge the importance of the actual Christian faith itself which went on to create and give life to the culture.' Professor Roberts, who has also presented Coast and Time Team, was president of Humanists UK between 2019-2022 and is professor of public engagement in science at the University of Birmingham. A study last October concluded that Britain is entering its first 'atheist age' as parents fail to pass on religious beliefs to their children. For the first time in history, the UK now has more atheists than people who believe in the existence of a god, researchers from institutions including the University of Kent said. However, other writers have argued that there is a 'quiet revival of churchgoing among younger Britons. A YouGov survey commissioned by the Bible Society found that the number of 18-to-24-year-olds who say they go to church at least once a month has risen from four per cent in 2019 to 16 per cent today. A Brazilian woman is facing deportation after she was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on the ritzy Massachusetts island of Nantucket. Lara Batista-Pereira illegally crossed the United States-Mexico border in San Diego with her father in 2023 before making the cross-country trip. The 31-year-old was caught in an immigration sting on May 27, which was one of several launched at the popular summer destination off the coast of Cape Cod, the Nantucket Current reports. The Minas Gerais native was driving a landscaping vehicle when federal agents in two unmarked vehicles intercepted her and placed her under arrest. Batista-Pereira and 39 other undocumented immigrants, who were apprehended in separate stings in Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, were led handcuffed and shackled into a U.S. Coast Guard boat and then transferred to a holding facility in Burlington, Massachusetts. She is now awaiting removal at the Karnes County Immigration Processing Center in Karnes City, Texas, according to ICE's detainee locator system. Batista-Pereira's father, Girlei, told the Nantucket Current that they were just looking for a new beginning when they opted to migrate to the United States. She held multiple jobs, including babysitting and walking dogs. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and other federal agents arrested 40 people in Nantucket (pictured above) and Martha's Vineyard during a series of raids May 27 Among those caught was Lara Batista-Pereira, 31, who is now awaiting deportation 'I'm worried because I don't know if Texas is worse for her or not,' he said. 'She's down and depressed. I'm also in bad shape, not sleeping well. It's hard not to think about.' Batista-Pereira appeared before an immigration judge in San Antonio on July 28, but was denied a request to set bail by judge Thomas Crossan, who indicated the case was out of his jurisdiction. Crossan found that she was arrested without a warrant when she crossed the border in San Diego, detained without a warrant and then released. Crossan referenced his ruling to United States Department of Justice Board of Immigrations Appeals' May 15 decision which indicated that a person who is placed under arrested and held without a warrant while entering the United States and then ordered removed is not eligible to be released on bail. An undocumented immigrant is handcuffed at a checkpoint on May 27 Federal agents, including officers with ICE, oversee a group of migrants arrested during separate raids that took place in Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard on May 27 Batista-Pereira's friend told the newspaper that the agents were wrong to arrest her 'She was part of the community, and very loved,' her friend said. 'And she had no criminal record. They were looking for someone else. She kept saying, "I'm not that person, I'm not that person".' As part of a campaign promise to root out illegal migration at the shared, southwestern border with Mexico, the Trump ramped up efforts to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants from the first day in office of his second term. According to data released by Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, a non-profit and non partisan research group, at least 56,945 undocumented immigrants were being held by ICE as of July 27. At least 71.1 percent of the detainees do not have criminal convictions. Israels embattled prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut a confident and determined figure as he faced the foreign media in a rare live press conference held in his Jerusalem office late afternoon on Sunday. He began against a backdrop of a screen that read, Open your eyes to Hamas lies. It was vintage Bibi: when your backs against the wall, come out with all guns blazing. Thousands of his fellow citizens may have been protesting in the streets against his plan to take over Gaza City but Netanyahu was going ahead regardless. This uncompromising approach has marked his attitude to the war from day one and is all the more remarkable given that he has simultaneously been fighting on a second, and far more personal, front. Israels wartime leader has spent many key hours of the last few months in the austere surroundings of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv District Court rooms, where he is on trial for bribery, fraud and breach of trust. In the days before he gave the order to strike Irans nuclear facilities in June, Netanyahu was not to be found hunkered down with close advisers at his official residence in Jerusalem. He had not cleared his schedule for final meetings with the top brass, going over every detail ahead of the most high-stakes military operation of his long and colourful tenure. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on trial for bribery, fraud and 'breach of trust' Instead, he spent many of those critical final hours sitting in a courtroom. He came to court but he couldnt talk, says a source close to Netanyahu, who described the PM as uncharacteristically tongue-tied during the proceedings on June 11, after the Israeli PM had refused to vary his schedule in case Tehran took it as a signal that an attack was imminent. He hadnt slept, but he had to play everything normal, the source adds. It was surreal, another senior Israeli official tells the Daily Mail. I mean, there was even something about a Bugs Bunny doll bought for his son 30 years ago or something equally absurd. (The stuffed toy, gifted by a billionaire political supporter, nearly 30 years ago, was cited as evidence of Netanyahus alleged greed.) Today, we can reveal in detail the inside story of how Netanyahu has been fighting in court for his political life while waging his high-stakes war in the region. We can report how top military officers were secretly brought into court to plead with the judge to reduce the number of weekly hearings in his case so he would have more time to plan the Iran operation as early as February this year. Most months there have been closed-door arguments over his availability as judges determine whether the case should be adjourned to help the war effort, or if his lawyers were just playing for time. Netanyahus legal team have been attending as many as three hearings every week often with the PM himself required to appear. So it was in the run-up to the strike on Iran. After the session described above had concluded, Netanyahu went home to clear his head. Just 24 hours later, he gave the order to launch Operation Rising Lion against the ayatollahs. It was the start of what Donald Trump later christened the Twelve-Day War a unilateral strike that, exactly as Netanyahu had gambled, culminated with the US President dispatching American B2 planes to drop more than a dozen bunker-buster bombs on Irans nuclear sites built deep underground in mountainous regions. This followed Hamas being pulverised in Gaza at immense cost to the civilian population; the decapitation of Hezbollah in a flamboyant exploding pagers operation in Lebanon; and the fall of Bashar al-Assad in Syria. Now, in Tehran, the head of the snake had been hit. And with Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his allies at their weakest, many believed a once-in-a-generation opportunity presented itself to reset the balance of power and bring about regional peace and security. Netanyahu stood on the cusp of striking a deal to end the war in Gaza. In doing so, he could engineer the return of the remaining hostages and perhaps even normalise relations with Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world. It was a truly remarkable change of fortune for Israels longest serving Prime Minister who had been caught unawares when his country suffered its greatest tragedy in the shape of October 7. As for the court case, at the height of his victory over Iran, Netanyahus lawyers were reportedly negotiating a plea deal that could have seen his case disappear but Israeli Press said it fell apart over the PMs refusal to step down as a condition. Why didnt he take the offer? Any sane man would surely accept a plea deal to ensure that his remarkable political career did not end in disgrace. Yet the only thing everyone we spoke to agrees on is that Benjamin Netanyahu is not going anywhere. It is not in his DNA, says long-standing political opponent and former deputy director of Mossad, Ram Ben-Barak. A close ally of the prime minister concurs. He will never resign not as a condition of these bogus allegations, they told us. Netanyahus legal team have been attending as many as three hearings every week often with the PM himself required to appear Top military officers were secretly brought into court to plead with the judge to reduce the number of weekly hearings in Netanyahu's case so he would have more time to plan the Iran operation But, if he wont resign, then what on earth is his plan? He will run [for prime minister] again, of course, they added. Today, just weeks after turning down the plea deal, Netanyahu is once more under unbearable pressure with anti-war protests gathering steam and Israelis hysterical over appalling images of hostages Evyatar David and Rom Braslavski being starved in the terror tunnels of Gaza. Jerusalem and Washington have both pulled out of ceasefire talks, blaming Hamass intransigence on key issues with the terror group emboldened to refuse to disarm after calls from Britain, France and Canada to recognise a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, widely circulated images of starvation in Gaza some now denounced by Netanyahu as fakes have shocked the world and Netanyahus declaration that Israel will take over Gaza City has heaped yet more criticism on the war that has killed over 60,000 according to the Hamas-run health ministry. For years now, Israels fate has become increasingly intertwined with that of Netanyahu, 75. He became the first prime minister to be born in the Jewish State back in 1996 and he has served three terms, though not all of them continuously. It was in 2019, while still in office, that Netanyahu was charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three separate cases. He is said to have accepted luxury gifts of cigars and champagne and to have struck backroom deals with a newspaper baron and a telecoms boss. Netanyahu and his supporters insisted he was the victim of a witch hunt and tied his political survival to that of the nations battle against internal enemies. He was ousted in 2021 but cobbled together a hardline Right-wing coalition and returned in December 2022 before announcing plans to overhaul the judiciary five days after reassuming power. It sparked mass protests over allegations he was attempting to influence his own trials and amid the chaos Hamas launched its barbaric terror attack, killing 1,200 and taking 251 hostages. There could be no doubt that both Netanyahu and his country were fighting for their survival. Netanyahus allies believe that events since October 7 are a vindication of their leaders patriotism and far-sightedness. He has not only taken out Israels enemies one by one but cleared the way for that strike on Iran. But his opponents, while supporting the attack on Tehran, are circumspect. He is taking a lot of credit for winning in Iran, which is much more down to our brilliant military and intelligence, says former deputy director of Mossad, Ben-Barak. I say, if you take the credit for winning in Iran, you must also take the responsibility for the failure of October 7. There has still been no inquiry for the failings that day Netanyahu insists this must come after the war in Gaza ends. Amit Hadad, arriving at the District Court in Tel Aviv in April, heads up Netanyahu's legal team It is often quipped that Netanyahu spends more time with Hadad than with his own family. Pictured: Hadad entering the District Court while passing demonstrators Naturally, opponents see a shrewd opportunist determined to fight a forever war in a bid to keep his day of reckoning at bay. As Britain becomes the latest to push for Palestine to be recognised when the UN General Assembly opens in September, critics see Netanyahu putting his personal survival above what is best for his country. Dr Nachman Shai, former Minister of Diaspora Affairs of the Israeli Labor party, said: Netanyahu and this government have made Israel much weaker internationally. After October 7 Israel had all the legitimacy to destroy Hamas and bring back the hostages, but nearly two years later a Palestinian state is being recognised. How did we get here? Its unimaginable. On the other hand, his supporters argue it is precisely Netanyahus ability to ignore criticism and stay focused on his goals that make him the only leader capable of leading Israel in its hour of need. One of his supporters told me they went to Africa and met an elephant with Bibis skin, an ally jokes. You cannot live with these attacks unless you thicken your skin. That is what created him, thats what gave him the opportunity and ability to win after October 7. Not only was he facing calls to resign but, within weeks of October 7, his trial resumed. The PMs legal team is headed by 39-year-old attorney Amit Hadad. Members of Netanyahus inner circle quip that the leader spends more time with Hadad than with his own family. The PMs adviser, Topaz Luk, said the profound closeness between the two men goes beyond legal representation and everyone in the inner circle credits this relationship for much of Netanyahus success. They describe as absurd the decision to resume legal proceedings against him for three days a week in the wake of the October 7 attacks, given the grave military challenges facing the country. It was so surreal to me to see everything continue as if the world was not being torn apart, one says. But Netanyahu has not struggled with the rigours of the process, they argue. If he was interrogated from 8am to 12pm, at 12.30pm he would meet the US Secretary of State, they add. He doesnt care, its as if its someone elses trial. Thats how he works. He is only focused on the relevant target. That is not to say the court case hasnt been distracting. Just two days after Bashar al-Assads Syrian dictatorship fell to hardline Islamist rebels on December 8 last year, for example, Netanyahu was in court embarking on his primary statement as a witness. His pleas to postpone the case by two weeks on account of Assads fall went unheard and he was not granted a single days leave. Three months after that, the Daily Mail has learnt, Netanyahu made a top secret request to reduce the number of days the court would sit in order to give him more time to plan the Iranian operation. The head of military intelligence and the military secretary all went to court to attend a closed-door hearing which got under way only after everyone present had signed a vicious protocol which made it clear what would happen should they expose this state secret. It is claimed the head of Israeli intelligence argued in line with the defence that this was essential. The judge did adjourn hearings for two days, and the case continued at a reduced rate of two a week. Netanyahu became the first prime minister to be born in the Jewish State back in 1996 and he has served three terms, though not all of them continuously Netanyahus inner circle adamantly believe the legal obduracy shows the case is designed to tie up the prime minister. Boaz Bismuth, a close ally of Netanyahu, says: In these challenging times, we need a prime minister at the wheel and not in court. Following the success of the Iran strikes, however, Bibi appeared to get his mojo back. Those 12 days, they brought the colour back to his cheeks, an ally says of the attack. It is this confidence that leads everyone who knows the prime minister to believe he will run again, before his term runs out in October next year. But as Israels fate and that of its leader become ever more tightly intertwined, there is a growing fear that the historic opportunity that presents itself right now for regional peace will slip away. Some 50 hostages remain held by Hamas, of whom 20 are believed to be alive, but the growing international condemnation of Israels approach to Gaza and the increasing calls for recognition of a Palestinian state have emboldened Hamas to harden its stance in negotiations. Meanwhile, Israeli families are tired of burying their dead in a war they thought would be over in months, not years. For Israels leading commentator, Amit Segal, who has seen his fair share of Israeli leaders come and go, Netanyahus rule is following a familiar pattern. At a certain point, they start believing that being a patriot means that they must serve as prime minister, because otherwise the country will collapse, he says. Netanyahu is no exception. A North Carolina pastor posted a haunting 'ride or die' family tribute just hours before he, his wife and his mother were brutally shot to death inside their home. Danny Richards, 57, and his wife Sabrina, who had been celebrating her 54th birthday, were found shot to death inside their Lillington home Tuesday evening, according to WRAL News. A third victim, Dannys 74-year-old mother Clara, was also found with gunshot wounds and died shortly after at the hospital. The suspect was quickly identified as the 15-year-old nephew of Danny and Sabrina and the grandson of Clara - a teen whom loved ones said the family had taken in, hoping to give him a better life, according to the outlet. Just under four hours before the horrific killings, Danny posted a chilling Facebook tribute showing the family celebrating Sabrinas birthday, accompanied by a heartfelt message to his wife. 'Happy birthday to the Love of my life, my ride or Die, Sabrina Richards,' the caption read. 'Love you baby!!!' The tragedy began around 5:15pm Tuesday evening, when an unidentified 10-year-old inside the home called authorities to report that several family members had also been shot. Deputies with the Harnett County Sheriff's Office responded quickly to the home in the Trotter's Ridge neighborhood, where they discovered that the three victims had been gunned down. The couple had been married for nearly 30 years and served as Bishop (pictured) and First Lady of Genesis Grace Ministry in Fayetteville, where they regularly organized events with their family to provide food, clothing, medical care, and other essentials to the less fortunate Bishop Danny Richards (right), 57, and his wife Sabrina (left), who had just celebrated her 54th birthday that day, were found shot to death inside their Lillington home in North Carolina on Tuesday evening A third victim, Dannys 74-year-old mother Clara (pictured), was also found with gunshot wounds and died shortly after at the hospital Just under four hours before the horrific killings, Danny posted a chilling Facebook tribute showing the family celebrating Sabrinas birthday, accompanied by a heartfelt message to his wife (pictured) While Danny and Sabrina were pronounced dead at the scene, Clara was still alive but found critically injured outside the home, according to My Daily Record. Emergency radio traffic indicated that she was shot in the abdomen but managed to make it outside the residence, where she was found and rushed to Womack Army Medical Center, as reported by the outlet. Tragically, she died the following day. Fortunately, the 10-year-old child who alerted authorities to the gruesome scene was left physically unharmed. Investigators swiftly identified the suspected shooter as a 15-year-old relative of the victims, whose name has not been released due to his age. After the shooting, authorities said the teenager fled in a vehicle that was later discovered abandoned in a wooded area near Highway 87 and Nursery Road, as reported by WRAL. A large-scale search continued into the night, until around 11pm, when law enforcement located the teen hiding in a wooded area nearby. The young suspect was taken into custody and charged with three counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of his uncle, aunt and grandmother, according to CBS 17 News. Neighbors and community members expressed shock over the news, with many calling the sudden deaths 'a real tragedy,' according to WRAL. The suspect was quickly identified as the 15-year-old nephew of Danny (right) and Sabrina (left) and the grandson of Clara - a teen whom loved ones said the family had taken in, hoping to give him a better life The tragedy began around 5:15pm Tuesday evening, when an unidentified 10-year-old inside the home called authorities to report that several family members had been shot (pictured: Danny and Sabrina) Emergency radio traffic indicated that Clara was shot in the abdomen but managed to make it outside the residence (pictured), where she was found alive and rushed to Womack Army Medical Center. Tragically, she died the following day After the shooting, authorities said the teenager fled in a vehicle that was later discovered abandoned in a wooded area near Highway 87 and Nursery Road, prompting an hours-long search (pictured: Danny and Sabrina) A large-scale search continued into the night, until around 11pm, when law enforcement located the teen hiding in a wooded area nearby and took him into custody on three charges of first-degree murder 'This neighborhood is pretty quiet,' neighbor Donald Greaux told the outlet. 'Everybody talks to each other, waves at each other. Its just sad to hear that,' he added. The couple had been married for nearly 30 years and served as Bishop and First Lady of Genesis Grace Ministry in Fayetteville, according to a Facebook post. Together, they regularly organized events with their family to provide food, clothing, medical care, and other essentials to the less fortunate. Additionally, both Danny and Sabrina were Army veterans who served until 2017, a US Army Human Resources Command spokesperson told WRAL. Greaux, who recently retired from the 82nd Airborne Division, told the outlet he had been getting to know his neighbors in the months leading up to their deaths. 'Hes a very, very nice guy, and its a sad situation that him and his family,' he told WRAL. 'He loves his family, for whatever the situation was.' Dannys haunting final post quickly amassed dozens of comments from friends and community members expressing disbelief over the unexpected murders. Both Danny (left) and Sabrina (right) were Army veterans who served until 2017 Authorities have not yet released a possible motive for the triple murder, and the investigation remains ongoing The suspected teenage shooter is currently being held in a North Carolina juvenile detention center (pictured: Danny and Sabrina) 'I just heard the news. I'm blown away. You were one of the most influential leaders I had. Rest in paradise!' one comment read. Another user, who appeared to know Danny from his Army days, added: 'This is so sad man. I just heard the news and this one really hurts man. CSM Rich was a great leader and a better human being.' 'CSM Richards was a genuine kind soul. I also met Sabrina as well,' he added. 'Didnt get to work or know her like I did CSM, but I did know that she loved him dearly. My condolences go out to the rest of their families' A third wrote: 'Im at a loss for words. Just know I was always remember how you inspired me to be better and do better CSM. I am saddened to hear the bad news today. God bless you and your entire family. Your legacy will live forever.' 'This is such a tragedy. Disgusting, avoidable and unnecessary tragedy,' said another. Authorities have not yet released a possible motive for the triple murder, and the investigation remains ongoing. The suspected teenage shooter is currently being held in a North Carolina juvenile detention center. A disabled elderly Australian man is pleading for help to return home from Thailand after his much younger Thai wife allegedly squandered his life savings on drugs. Community leader Boonthom Sorumpha, from Ban Dung district in Thailands northeastern Udon Thani province, has urged the Australian government to step in to assist the 75-year-old known only as Marcus. Ms Sorumpha claimed Marcus 45-year-old wife, 'Pikun', who is 30 years his junior, became addicted to methamphetamine and burned through his $189,000. Marcus, who lost his left leg in a car accident, had relied on Pikun as his primary carer and entrusted her with managing his finances after moving to live with her in Udon Thani. Local officials say Pikun has been taken to a drug rehabilitation centre after she allegedly went on a meth-induced rampage. This left Marcus isolated and unable to cope with daily life due to his disability, and he now has only 1,500 baht ($72) to his name. Marcus told reporters he had once travelled regularly between Thailand and Australia and previously owned a house in Bangkok. After losing his leg in a car accident, he sold his Bangkok property for $189,000, and she took the money to manage on behalf of the couple. A desperate 75-year-old Aussie Marcus wants to come home after this Thai bride allegedly spent their savings on drugs Local media pictured Pikun passed out before she went to rehab Marcus receives help from local community leaders while his wife is in rehab Her alleged drug habit took over, and Thai media claims she spent it all on substance abuse. He is desperate to return to Australia and said he wanted nothing further to do with Pikun, rehabilitation or not. It has been reported that the couple's son was also addicted to meth. Pikun's mother, Ting, said her daughter used drugs but maintained that she loved her foreign husband. Celebrity chef Matt Moran and hospitality heavyweight Solotel have been sensationally ousted from one of Sydney's most coveted venues after a 24-year run. In a shock shake-up that's sent ripples through Sydney's hospitality scene, the Sydney Opera House has handed the lucrative Opera Bar contract to rising player Applejack for the next decade - despite Solotel's widely praised stewardship of the venue. Applejack, an industry underdog, launched in 2011 and has since built a trendy stable of Sydney hotspots, including Bopp & Tone, The Butler and RAFI. The group threw its hat into the fiercely competitive tender ring to run the Opera House and House Canteen venues in November last year, and against the odds, came out on top. Meanwhile, Solotel, which boasts an even bigger portfolio of star venues like Aria, Chiswick, Barangaroo House, and the Golden Sheaf, was left empty-handed, marking the end of an era running the Opera Bar. Perched at the base of the Sydney Opera House, Opera Bar and the neighbouring House Canteen are considered Sydney's most prized hospitality assets, thanks to their jaw-dropping harbour views. For more than two decades, Mr Moran and Solotel founder Bruce Solomon transformed Opera Bar into an iconic Sydney destination, drawing locals, tourists and celebrities alike. Their reign has come to a dramatic close. Celebrity Chef Matt Moran (pictured) and hospitality group Solotel were at the helm of the Opera Bar and House Canteen but lost the coveted contract following a 24-year reign The Solotel empire now sits under the watch of Bruce Solomon's son, Elliott, who was appointed CEO in 2021. Elliot Solomon is married to Miki Hendler, the granddaughter of billionaire property developer Harry Triguboff. Mr Triguboff is one of the most wealthy men in Australia with an estimated worth of $20billion. The heiress works for the family business, Meriton, and together with her husband, are involved in hospitality groups which have a combined net worth of millions of dollars. Solotel has also had a long partnership with Matt Moran after the celebrity chef merged his company, MorSol, with the group in 2016. On its website, the group boasts Moran as 'one of Australia's most renowned and recognised chefs' who has been a 'champion of seasonal and local produce'. Despite the upset over Opera Bar, the key players struck a gracious tone. In a joint statement, Mr Moran, Mr Solomon and Opera Bar general manager John Gallas said they were proud of their long association, even as the partnership ended. Solotel CEO Elliot Solomon (left) - who was appointed in 2021 - is the husband of hospitality royalty Miki Hendler 'We had a vision to democratise the [Opera House] for the people, making the space approachable and fun,' the statement read. 'We set out to create a place that celebrated Sydney, its harbour, and its people, and that is exactly what Opera Bar has become. 'It has been our privilege to help shape such an iconic part of the city with a bar that is loved by Sydney and the world.' Sydney Opera House Chief Customer Officer Jade McKellar thanked Solotel, Matt Moran, and General Manager John Gallas for successfully running the venues. 'The Solotel team has been instrumental to the success of these iconic Sydney venues, creating unforgettable experiences for locals and tourists over decades and contributing to the vitality of Sydney's hospitality scene,' Ms McKellar said. 'We're incredibly proud of what we've delivered together over this long-standing partnership. 'We thank them for their significant contribution and acknowledge their lasting legacy.' Ms McKellar added the Opera House was 'thrilled' to appoint Applejack to run the harbourside venues. The Opera Bar and House Canteen are Sydney's most coveted hospitality venues due to the commercial yield and breathtaking harbour views The Sydney Opera House announced it was handing over the contract for the most coveted hospitality venues the Opera Bar (pictured) and it's neighbour, House Canteen 'We were delighted by the exceptional standard of the submissions received, with Applejack's detailing a compelling, vibrant vision for this community space that thousands of locals and visitors enjoy every year,' Ms McKellan said. 'There's nothing quite like the Opera House, and I'm looking forward to working with Applejack to make the most of this tremendous opportunity.' Applejack co-founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts said winning the tender was a 'dream come true for our entire team'. 'To be entrusted as custodians of venues at the Sydney Opera House the world's most iconic cultural stage is both humbling and inspiring,' they said in a statement. 'We can't wait to share the exciting new concepts we've developed for both locals and visitors while honouring this extraordinary location.' The last time the Opera Bar was up for tender was in 2014, when it sparked a legal battle between Solotel and owner of the now-closed restaurant Hugos in Potts Point. Mr Evans accused an architect of leaking his plans and claimed the Sydney Opera House Trust had given Solotel an unfair advantage when it allowed the group a second submission after the deadline. Both the architect and the Opera House Trust denied the accusations, however Evans' legal action against the trust continued and reached the courts in 2018. A judge ordered the parties to go to mediation and in November, last year, Evans and the Opera House had reached a confidential settlement. Applejack's contract for the Opera Bar will begin in mid-September and will take over the House Canteen in mid-November, with refurbishments set to start in 2026. A Los Angeles-bound flight was forced to make an emergency landing when a belligerent passenger started yelling racial slurs and striking others on board with his 'waist belt.' Breeze Airways Flight MX704 broke out in chaos in the middle of its journey from Norfolk, Virginia, to the California hot spot on Wednesday. The flight had to divert to Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado because of the violent outburst. A drunken man started screaming and acting violently towards flight attendants and other travelers, the Grand Junction Police Department said in a statement. He was allegedly 'yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard,' police told the outlet. The culprit, whose name has not been publicly released, was restrained twice as the staff urgently arranged for the emergency landing and notified local police of the situation. But he managed to break free - this time using a 'waist belt' to whack anyone trying to stop his reign of terror. Other passengers reportedly had to hold him down until the plane landed. A drunken man started screaming and acting violently towards flight attendants and other travelers, according to police (pictured: the culprit being escorted off the plane in handcuffs) Breeze Airways Flight MX704 (pictured) broke out in chaos in the middle of its journey from Norfolk, Virginia , to the California hot spot on Wednesday Audio from Air Traffic Controllers obtained by 13 News Now indicates the belt he used to attack his fellow passengers was one of the restraints he broke out of. 'Approach said that the passenger is free and hes using what they are trying to restrain him with as a weapon,' they noted. The operator responding on the ground responded: 'Hitting people with his own waist belt, right?' 'Belt, yes sir,' the flight employee responded. It is not immediately clear if this belt was one of his restraints or if it was one he was wearing. The Daily Mail has reached out to the airline of comment and clarification. When the plane finally landed, Grand Junction Police swarmed the plane to take the attacker into custody. Footage captured by one of the terrified passengers on board the flight from hell shows the aggravated perpetrator being escorted down the aisle by police officers as he was handcuffed. The police department said that there were no reported injuries. But the airline told NBC 4 a flight attendant and a guest were evaluated for minor injuries. '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 police department released a statement on the Wednesday incident Footage captured by one of the terrified passengers on board the flight from hell shows the aggravated perpetrator being escorted down the aisle by police officers (pictured) The flight had to divert to Grand Junction Regional Airport (pictured) in Colorado because of the violent outburst According to the FlightAware tracker, the flight from Grand Junction to Los Angeles was rescheduled for just after 6:15pm local time. The trip to their destination is expected to take about an hour and a half. The Daily Mail has reached out to Grand Junction police for comment. The investigation is ongoing and charges will be handled by the FBI, the department said in its statement. There have been 1,007 unruly passenger reports since the start of the year, according to the FAA. 'Incidents where airline passengers have disrupted flights with threatening or violent behavior are an ongoing problem and airlines have seen rapid growth in occurrences since 2021,' the agency wrote. In 2021, the FAA saw a record-high number of outrageous incidents and received a staggering 5,973 reports that year. A Sydneysider has lost $200,000 in a terrifying 'Chinese blessing scam', with loved ones convinced she was given a drug to comply with their demands. Mei Lin*, 85, was conned into handing over a haul of valuable jewellery and cash in a sophisticated street fraud, in Homebush West, when scammers told her the belongings needed to be 'blessed' to prevent harm to her family, on January 11, 2018. Close relative and barrister Laina Chan has claimed the fraud involved the scammers drugging Ms Lin by blowing scopolamine, also known as 'devil's breath', onto her. She said the police were 'very sceptical' when she said the fraud was part of a worldwide scam and didn't feel she was believed when she said 'they were using this drug'. Ms Lin feels embarrassed about falling victim to the scam and has never told her family what she was thinking when she handed over her prized possessions. The scam is believed to have originated in China and Hong Kong in the early 2000s, and it has spread worldwide, with victims in the UK, US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Elderly Chinese women are generally targeted with scammers exploiting cultural fears in the cruel con. Women are convinced their families are at risk from spirits and need to have their wealth blessed to protect them from curses or illness. Barrister Laina Chan (pictured) is convinced her relative Mei Lin fell victim to the 'Chinese blessing scam' because she was under the influence of scopolamine CCTV footage shows a 73-year-old woman (not Mei Lin) being scammed by three women in Blacktown Victims are tricked into handing over their prized belongings to be blessed, but once scammers are in possession of their money and valuables, the items are swapped with objects of no value. Scammers encourage the women not to open their bags for an extended time following the 'blessing'. Ms Lin was approached at a post box by a middle-aged Asian woman who claimed she was looking for a special herb needed to cure her injured daughter. A second woman pretended to overhear and said she knew a healer, before guiding Ms Lin away to a man who claimed to know the healer. The man shared his concern Ms Lin's daughter would fall ill if her belongings weren't blessed, and she was then escorted to her house where she filled a bag with $196,000 worth of jewellery. She then withdrew $5,000 and added the cash to her bag. Ms Chan said her relative doesn't believe in 'spiritual blessings' and said the idea Ms Lin handed over money without being under the influence is 'nonsense'. 'There's no way this would have happened but for the fact that they had used the drug and made her comply,' she told The Sydney Morning Herald. NSW Police charged two Chinese nationals in July in connection with over 80 reported scams over two years, which resulted in more than $3million being stolen (pictured) Arrest warrants were issued for seven others (pictured) in connection with the scams 'They come next to you, and they just blow a little bit at you, and you don't even realise they've blown a little bit of a drug at you, and just enough to make you really compliant, so you're hypnotised.' Scopolamine can be used in some medications to treat motion sickness, but the potent drug can also disorient and incapacitate users. Ms Lin has no recollection of when she handed over her bag, but she began to feel suspicious when she was told to keep the bag next to her bed for three months after it was returned to her. When she got home, Ms Lin opened the bag to find a bottle of water and two candles. She reported the scam to the police, but CCTV was never recovered and no arrests were made. The North West Metropolitan Region established Strike Force Sentinel to investigate these scams across Sydney from July 2023. Police have received reports for over 80 incidents across Sydney, including including Ryde, Burwood, Parramatta and Hornsby areas. More than $3million in cash and valuables has been stolen by scammers. NSW Police have said 'there is no evidence or inquiries being made into the use of drugs to facilitate the scams'. In July, NSW Police charged two Chinese nationals and issued arrest warrants for seven others in connection with over 80 reported scams over two years, which resulted in more than $3million being stolen. They say at least 50 scammers, 25 of whom have been identified, have been counted since the investigation began in 2023. *Mei Lin is not the victim's real name. A pilot who survived a deadly helicopter crash has detailed lies he told investigators after deleting phone messages, saying he was in a 'very bad way' at the time with life-changing injuries. Sebastian Robinson is a paraplegic after the crash in February 2022 that killed Outback Wrangler co-star Chris 'Willow' Wilson in Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory. Mr Robinson is giving evidence in the Supreme Court in Darwin at the trial of reality TV star Matt Wright, who has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice. Prosecutors allege the helicopter operator was worried crash investigators would discover flight-time meters were regularly disconnected to extend flying hours beyond official thresholds and that paperwork was falsified. Under questioning from senior defence counsel for Wright, David Edwardson KC, Mr Robinson admitted he had lied to Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigators around the same time. Among the lies were that, before the crash, the helicopter was functioning well and that he was busy with the role of maintenance controller at Wright's Helibrook company, when in fact he held the position in name only. Mr Robinson admitted saying there had only been a spark plug issue with the helicopter when 'there were many more problems with the aircraft.' A witness has told a court Matt Wright (pictured arriving at court on Monday with wife Kaia) asked him to manipulate flying hours Pilot Sebastian Robinson (right) was left a paraplegic after the crash which killed Chris 'Willow' Wilson (left) He said his condition hindered his proper judgment at the time. 'I was in a very bad way.' The 32-year-old told the jury on Tuesday he had fractures of his vertebrae, resulting in a complete severance of his spinal cord, rendering him a paraplegic. Both his lungs were punctured, his left elbow and ankles were fractured, and he suffered a traumatic brain injury that still causes him cognition problems and mood swings. Mr Edwardson has previously alleged that, in the lead-up to the crash, Mr Robinson was a cocaine-using 'party animal' who was 'hopeless' at flight record keeping. The court on Wednesday heard Mr Robinson had done contract work with Indigenous groups in Arnhem Land, including Aboriginal rangers. Under questioning by Mr Edwardson, Mr Robinson agreed it was 'unforgivable' to supply alcohol or illegal drugs to Indigenous communities where liquor was banned. 'There might have been the occasion I'd have a very small amount of alcohol under the seat of the helicopter, but I wasn't supplying a commercial amount,' he said. The court heard Wright visited Mr Robinson in Royal Brisbane Hospital when he was heavily sedated with 'tubes coming out of me everywhere.' The helicopter (pictured) crashed during a crocodile-egg collecting mission in remote swampland in the Northern Territory, in February 2022 Dani Wilson (pictured this week) lost her husband Chris 'Willow' Wilson in the helicopter crash Crown prosecutor Jason Gullaci SC asked Mr Robinson what Wright had requested 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.' The court was told Mr Robinson was being asked to put egg-collecting hours flown on Wright's crashed helicopter onto his helicopter, which was not fitted with equipment for egg collecting. Mr Robinson said he told Wright on a return visit the next day that 'I didn't feel comfortable doing it.' 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 and could not enter the Indigenous territory. Jurors heard 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 retail worker who has managed to save $80,000 has been praised for putting to shame those high-earning 'corporate' workers who claim they cannot save money due to Australia's soaring cost of living. The 35-year-old Sydneysider told Coposit he had put away the tidy sum all while working at bargain clothing store Lowes. He acknowledged Sydney was an expensive city to live in, but revealed the simple lifestyle decision he made that allowed him to save. 'I just don't buy really expensive things, I save it for when I really want something,' he said in a TikTok video. The man revealed he did not own any property or significant assets, but would use his savings to make investments. The 35-year-old indicated he would continue to work at Lowes because he 'really liked' his job. Social media users said he provided a good lesson for the white collar workers who earn much more, but waste it with profligate spending. 'See! Bro works at Lowes and saved $80,000,' he wrote. A Sydney retail worker (pictured left) revealed he does not spend his money on expensive items, and has been able to save $80,000 'People out here are working corporate jobs crying about "cost of living" while having their third matcha for the day and sipping from their $100 Frank Green bottle.' Others shared their admiration for the Lowes worker. 'He's like me, but with more self-control,' one said. 'Good on him,' another added. One said the worker should really look to invest his money, rather than sit on it. '$80,000 cash is impressive, but no assets is where hell get destroyed long term,' they said. According to Westpac data, their 35 to 44-year-old customers had an average savings account balance of $29,769 but the median balance - the midpoint of the highest and lowest - was a meagre $811. Customers aged 25 to 29 had an average of $19,165 in savings, and a median balance of $2,200. Customers 30 to 34 have an average of $21,394, and a median of $1,104. Anthony Albanese has accused Hamas of manipulating facts for their own 'propaganda,' claiming that one of the terrorist group's founders - who praised the Labor government's 'courageous' decision to recognise Palestinian statehood - was actually in prison and unable to communicate with the media. On Monday, the Prime Minister announced that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month, following similar commitments from other Western allies, including the UK, France, and Canada. He insisted the move would be 'totally opposed' by Hamas, and said the Palestinian Authority had assured him the group would play no role in any future Palestinian state. However, Sheikh Hassan Yousef, a co-founder of Hamas and one of its most senior figures in the West Bank, welcomed the 'political courage' of the Labor government in a statement to Nine Newspapers. He claimed the decision to recognise Palestine vindicated Hamas's October 7 attack- the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust. In response, an Australian government spokesperson reiterated that the decision was intended to 'isolate Hamas,' while implicitly criticising the media for airing the group's views. 'Hamas always tries to manipulate facts for their own propaganda,' the spokesperson said. 'Media have a responsibility to make professional judgements to not promote propaganda of terrorist organisations to get cynical headlines.' Sheikh Hassan Yousef (pictured), a co-founder of Hamas and one of the terror group's most senior figures in the West Bank, welcomed the 'political courage' of the Labor, claiming their decision to recognise Palestine vindicated Hamas' s October 7 attack - the worst massacre of the Jews since the holocaust Albanese reinforced his position on Thursday morning, telling reporters he would 'not be a cheer squad for Hamas' and casting doubt on Yousef's statement, claiming he has been imprisoned in Israel since October 2023 and has no way of communicating. 'What that should be is a warning to the media to be very careful about the fact that Hamas will engage in propaganda, because what is happening is that the international community are united about isolating Hamas, about supporting a peaceful way forward,' Albanese added. He urged the media not to 'repeat Hamas's propaganda'. Regardless, the Opposition has predictably seized on the decision to recognise Palestinian statehood, with Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley accusing the Prime Minister of 'making a real mess of this.' 'On the same day, a listed terror organisation calls our prime minister a hero, while our closest ally, the US, says that these actions are going to make peace in the region less likely,' she told Nine on Thursday morning. 'So, it's really quite extraordinary, because remember, the Prime Minister used justification for this decision by saying Hamas would not be involved. 'And I saw the Treasurer yesterday saying, 'Oh, Hamas will have no role in a future Palestinian state.' Really? As if we can control these things?' Shadow Foreign Minister Michaelia Cash said the decision was a gift to the proscribed terrorist group. In response, an Australian government spokesperson stuck to the line that their decision was designed to 'isolate Hamas' - before tacitly criticising the media for airing Hamas's position 'All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter,' Cash said on Wednesday. The decision also provoked the ire of Israel, with the country's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar reposting a news article about Hamas praising Albanese. 'Hamas loves Anthony Albanese,' Sa'ar wrote, using a heart emoji for 'loves'. Perhaps most appallingly, Yousef claimed that the Albanese administration's move was a vindication of Hamas's October 7 slaughter that triggered the current two-year war. '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 Nine Newspapers. '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.' Alex Ryvchin, Co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, has spoken of his lack of faith in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's understanding of the situation in Gaza and Hamas's strategy. 'The Prime Minister framed the recognition of Palestine as a defeat for Hamas because of its violent opposition to a two-state solution and desire to replace Israel with a Palestinian state from the river to the sea,' Mr Ryvchin posted on X on Wednesday. 'He is right about Hamas's intentions but wrong about how they see the struggle. They're playing the long game. They view the recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Israel as a leap towards eventual conquest and slaughter of the Jews. 'This is why they praise our Prime Minister. They feel like October 7 has worked perfectly and now brought them a step closer to total victory. 'Western governments have unwittingly signalled that spectacular acts of violence bring desired political outcomes. In other words, terrorism works because we let it.' 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. An Alabama priest is under investigation following allegations that he began a sexual relationship with a woman when she was 17 - and later paid her hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for her silence. Heather Jones, now 33, publicly accused Robert Sullivan, 61, of initiating a sexual relationship with her in 2009 while she was a dancer at an adult establishment outside Birmingham. According to Jones, Sullivan - then allegedly a regular patron at the club - offered her financial support in exchange for what he described as 'private companionship,' a term Jones says included sex. The allegations were first reported by The Guardian, to which Jones provided extensive documentation including bank records, emails from Sullivan, Venmo transactions, and a copy of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). She also submitted a formal written statement to the Diocese of Birmingham, detailing the alleged years-long relationship. 'I was a minor with no experience navigating adult relationships,' Jones wrote in her statement. She added that she felt compelled to come forward so many years later because Sullivan continued working closely with families and children as a pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood - about 5 miles outside Birmingham. Robert Sullivan, an Alabama priest, is under investigation following allegations that he began a sexual relationship with a woman when she was 17 Heather Jones, now 33, publicly accused Robert Sullivan, 61, of initiating a sexual relationship with her in 2009 while she was a dancer at an adult establishment outside Birmingham. Pictured: Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood, Alabama 'Others may be vulnerable to the same type of manipulation and exploitation,' she told The Guardian. Jones also alleged that in March of this year, Sullivan and his attorney arranged for her to sign an NDA in exchange for a whopping $273,000. She also shared an unsigned copy of the agreement with reporters, along with a March 27 email from Sullivan's church email account stating, 'Someone will be calling you to sign the NDA.' Jones says she also received two wire transfers of $136,500, each from an account under the name of the attorney's law office, one on March 31 and another on April 1, according to bank records she provided. In addition, Venmo records from July 18, 2024, through March 26 of this year, showed nearly $120,000 in payments from an account under Sullivan's name, according to documents reviewed by The Guardian. Jones says she requested a revision to the NDA and an additional $100,000, arguing the original agreement 'heavily favored his interests and offered no meaningful protection, healing or justice.' But, she said her request was ignored and ultimately chose to violate the NDA, stating she believed 'it would not hold up in court.' Jones, who recently began law school, said she could provide additional evidence such as phone records and photos if requested by investigators. According to Jones, Sullivan (pictured) - then allegedly a regular patron at the club - offered her financial support in exchange for what he described as 'private companionship,' a term Jones says included sex The Alabama priest has since taken a 'personal leave,' announcing on August 3 that he was taking leave 'after prayer and reflection.' Bishop Steven Raica of the Diocese of Birmingham later confirmed in a letter to parishioners that Sullivan had been placed on leave set to begin on August 4 and that the matter had been referred to the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. '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. The Diocese also reported the allegations to the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). However, the DHR eventually determined the claims did not meet the criteria for an investigation. Alabama law allows individuals aged 16 and older to legally consent to sex, and the state does not have laws specifically prohibiting clergy from engaging in sexual relationships with adult congregants under their spiritual care, according to the Alabama DHR. However, under Catholic canon law, anyone under 18 is considered a minor, and sexual contact with them is considered abusive. The Church began enforcing such rules more strictly in the early 2000s following widespread clergy abuse scandals, The Guardian reported. Sullivan (pictured), 61, has since taken a 'personal leave,' announcing on August 3 to his congregation that he was taking leave 'after prayer and reflection' Diocese spokesperson Donald Carson said that while civil authorities may not pursue the matter, Sullivan is prohibited from public ministry pending the outcome of the Church's internal investigation. 'We keep Father Sullivan and the woman who's making the allegations certainly in our prayers,' Carson said. On Wednesday, Raica wrote in a statement to the diocese that Sullivan had 'a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise' as the investigations pending against him progressed, AL.com reported. 'Anyone accused in the Church possesses a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, equivalent to the right granted in civil law,' he wrote to the diocese. Following Sullivan's 'absence,' Birmingham diocese vicar general Kevin Bazzel told congregants on Sunday that Raica had appointed him as Our Lady of Sorrows temporary administrator in Sullivans absence. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has slammed countries including Australia for recognising Palestine as a state, dismissing the move as nothing more than a symbolic gesture. He insisted the push for recognition by Australia and other Western countries would not change the situation on the ground in the Middle East and was driven by domestic politics. '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,' Rubio told a US radio station. 'The truth of the matter is that the future of that region is not going to be decided by some UN resolution or some press release by a prime minister or a president from some country. 'It's going to be decided 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.' Prime Minister Anthony Albanese 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. The shift means Australia's foreign policy has diverged from that of the US, a key ally that has for decades opposed formal recognition of Palestine. While the move has been slammed by the US, 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. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (pictured right with President Donald Trump) has slammed countries including Australia for recognising Palestine as a state Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month 'We welcome Australia's 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 Australia's 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. '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.' Responding to the comments from Hamas, 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 co-founder Sheikh Hassan Yousef (pictured) has welcomed the Labor government's move to recognise Palestinian statehood '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.' 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. Sky News host Andrew Bolt has told a former Israeli government official to 'dream on' after he suggested Prime Minister Anthony Albanese should roll back his recognition of Palestine. Albanese announced on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month, following other Western allies. After the PM's declaration was welcomed by Hamas, Eylon Levy, the former spokesman for Israel, joined Bolt on his show to slam Albanese. 'Australia is rewarding Hamas for the October 7 massacre and encouraging more terrorism, more barbaric atrocities against Israeli civilians,' he said. 'I hope the Australian Government is holding some serious crisis talks to discuss how on earth they ended up on the same side as a globally-proscribed, terrorist, Jihadi organisation.' Mr Levy then suggested Hamas's praise gave Albanese the opportunity to reconsider his decision. 'Hamas is giving Australia, the Australian government, a ladder to climb down from this tree,' he said. 'There's no shame in saying: "We made a mistake. We were wrong. We don't want to be on the same side of Hamas. We're on the same side as our democratic ally, Israel".' Sky News host Andrew Bolt told former Israeli government minister Eylon Levy (both pictured) to 'dream on' for suggesting Anthony Albanese reverse recognition of Palestinian statehood Bolt then issued the two-word rebuttal: 'Dream on.' Bolt then raised Albanese's claim from Monday that he had ensured commitments from the Palestinian Authority's Mahmoud Abbas. Among them, Abbas had said Hamas will play no future role in the Palestinian state, free elections will be held, and that he will demilitarise. 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. 'It's like taking the word of a teenager to clean his bedroom when it hasn't been cleaned in 20 years and he doesn't even have a broom,' Mr Levy said. 'Mahmoud Abbas says he's going to stop Hamas taking over a Palestinian state. Hamas is by far the most popular Palestinian party. 'The only thing now that is stopping Hamas from taking over the West Bank is the Israeli security presence there.' Albanese has said he received assurances from the Palestinian Authority (pictured: Albanese confronted by protesters while touring the Royal Queensland Show in Brisbane) Mr Levy served as an Israeli government spokesman and was a globally recognised voice of the country following Hamas' October 7 attack in 2023 during which terrorists stormed the Nova music festival in Israel, killing 1,200 people. He previously served as the international media advisor for President Isaac Herzog after a career as a TV news anchor. Prior to the end of his time in government, Mr Levy was suspended until further notice after the British Foreign Office complained about him, The Times of Israel reports. The furore is understood to have been about one of his tweets, which responded to comments by Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron about aid access in Gaza. He told the publication last year it was 'difficult to believe' his suspension was 'really about the tweet to David Cameron because I tweeted government policy and facts'. Mr Levy had written a now-deleted post on X responding to another one from Lord Cameron that urged Israel 'to allow more [aid] trucks into Gaza', the BBC reported. 'I hope you are also aware there are NO limits on the entry of food, water, medicine, or shelter equipment into Gaza, and in fact the crossings have EXCESS capacity,' Mr Levy said. 'Test us. Send another 100 trucks a day to Kerem Shalom and we'll get them in.' More than two million Palestinians face severe food insecurity, based on United Nations projections. Israel has denied responsibility for the lack of food in the Gaza Strip, accusing Hamas of stealing aid shipments. It has also denied there is starvation among the population, although it has restricted the flow of food to Gaza for months, according to international human rights groups. Venetians are furious after social media influencers exposed a well-kept local secret. Content creators recently tipped off tourists about the traghetto gondola - a cheap ferry service used by Venice locals to cross the Grand Canal at points where there are no bridges. The 'traghetto gondola' is a public service provided by the city that allows people to cross the water quickly at points where there are no bridges. The journey takes just a few minutes and has always cost just two euros for visitors or as little as 70 cents for residents, The Times reports. For years, the traghetti were used almost exclusively by Venetians. But that changed when influencers began promoting them as a budget way to enjoy a gondola ride. Now, the 'travel hack' has left the service oversubscribed, with long tourist queues forming at the crossings. Travel guides have advertised the traghetti - which differ from Venice's traditional gondolas in that they are steered by a single gondolier rather than two - for years. Venetians have been left furious after influencers exposed a well-kept local secret. Pictured: A gondola on the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy Content creators recently tipped off tourists about the traghetto gondola - a cheap ferry service used by locals to cross the Grand Canal at points where there are no bridges. Pictured: A narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice, Italy But, residents say the recent promotion of the travel hack by influencers is to blame for the dramatic surge in tourists wanting to use the service. 'With this gondola, for only 2, in four minutes you can cross the Grand Canal, just the time to take a photo to send to your friends,' said the YouTuber Giovanna Santoro. The Instagrammer 'Eat with Ange' said: 'It is a really quick ride, but it's great for solo travellers or anyone who doesn't want to pay 80-100 to experience a gondola ride.' It comes as Europe struggles to cope with a recent surge in tourism - with some areas being forced to introduce special measures in an attempt to combat the problem. Last month Europe's most famous holiday hotspots were busier than ever -despite anti-tourism protests taking place across the continent. Images show swarms of holidaymakers packed shoulder-to-shoulder and forming huge queues waiting for trains and buses in some of the most beautiful destinations in Italy and Greece. In the Italian village of Varenna - famed for its tiny streets and colourful facades of houses - Brits have complained of crowds so dense they were barely able to reach down to take their phones out of their pockets. Meanwhile, footage from the Greek island of Santorini - adored by influencers for its breathtaking sunsets and views across the Mediterranean- show thousands of people inching along narrow streets with barely enough room to pass each other. Some areas have introduced special measures in an attempt to crackdown on overcrowding. Portofino has banned walking barefoot, picnics, and drinking booze on the streets among a swathe of other prohibitions. Tourists risk being fined for carrying out a variety of actions typically enjoyed abroad. From July 15, travellers in Portofino will no longer be able to walk through the town barefoot, in swimwear, or topless - or sit in the piazza in such attire. Consuming alcohol on public streets has also been prohibited, with only restaurants, bars, and designated areas left to booze in. Begging, sitting, or lying on the streets, walls, sidewalks and parks has also been banned along with having picnics. The new ordinance, signed by Mayor Matteo Viacava, will take effect during the summer season and temporarily expire on September 30. Anyone who is caught violating the regulations before then will be subject to a fine of between 22 and 433. The goal of the latest crackdown is to protect the 'peace and quiet of residents and tourists' in the exclusive coastal resort which brings in up to 100,000 tourists during peak season - despite the town only having a population of 400. A traveling circus cancelled several shows after a teenage performer plummeted more than 15 feet when his aerial rig failed and tore loose from the ceiling mid-act. Circus Smirkus, a traveling youth circus, was performing in Massachusetts when 18-year-old Johnathan Richard suddenly plunged nearly 17 feet during a silk act, as reported by The Newport Daily Express. The silk performance features an aerial artist contorting while suspended from the ceiling on fabric. The show was immediately halted as Richard was rushed to the hospital with a suspected spinal injury. Two performers - one identified as Amy Haderer and the other simply as Lyric - claimed the injured teen is 'lucky to be alive.' Circus Smirkus released a statement announcing the cancellation of upcoming performances in New Hampshire and Vermont. 'It is with profound sadness that we share the news of a rigging incident that occurred during a recent Big Top Tour performance,' the statement read. 'The trouper involved is a beloved member of the Smirkus family. Their spirit, generosity, and dedication in and out of the ring shines,' it added. Circus Smirkus, a traveling youth circus, was performing in Massachusetts on July 22 when an 18-year-old aerialist (pictured after accident) suddenly plunged nearly 17 feet during a silk act Although Circus Smirkus officials have yet to release detailed information about the cause of the fall or the extent of the performers injuries, an internal review is reportedly underway to determine these details (pictured: Johnathan seen performing on right) Two fellow performers posted images of the 18-year-old artist Executive and Artistic Director Rachel Schiffer stated that the teen is 'expected to recover.' Just before 8pm Circus Smirkus was performing their second show at the Cracker Barrel Fairgrounds in Wrentham, Massachusetts. Authorities were called to respond to an aerialist who had fallen during a silk performance, according to the Daily Express. Before emergency services arrived, authorities said that a nurse attending the show administered immediate aid. The nurse applied traction to stabilize the performers neck and spine. 'When officers arrived on the scene, the victim was alert, conscious and able to speak,' Wrentham Police Chief William McGrath told the outlet. The teen was then rushed to a trauma hospital in Rhode Island for treatment. Circus Smirkus officials have yet to release detailed information about the cause of the fall or the extent of the performers injuries. An internal review is reportedly underway to determine these details, the Daily Express reported. The girls claimed that during the July 22 show, a rigger employed by the circus used the wrong equipment Following the accident, Circus Smirkus (pictured) released a statement on its website announcing the cancellation of upcoming performances in New Hampshire and Vermont For now, the traveling circus hopes to conclude its 38th summer season at its headquarters in Greensboro, Vermont, on August 17. 'Thank you for being part of the Smirkus community - were grateful for your support, patience, and understanding,' the circus said on its website. Circus Smirkus holds a unique place as the only traveling youth circus performing under a Big Top across the United States. With a troupe of 18 talented young performers aged 10 to 18 - supported by a dedicated team of 30 to 40 adults - the circus embarks on an ambitious journey lasting over seven weeks. On tour, they traverse New England in a fleet of over 20 buses, captivating audiences with nearly 65 high-energy performances. A Bollywood-inspired adaptation of A Christmas Carol will star a version of Ebenezer Scrooge who 'despises refugees', the director has revealed. The musical, which is directed by Gurinder Chadha and based on the 1843 novella by Charles Dickens, will feature a 'British-Indian' man named Sood as the lead character. He is described as a wealthy man who hates poor people and refugees on the basis they 'haven't worked as hard as him to get where he is'. The film, called Christmas Karma, is due for release in November this year and will star Kunal Nayyar, Boy George, Eva Longoria, Hugh Bonneville and Billy Porter. EastEnders actor Danny Dyer also has a part in the musical as a London cab driver and was spotted wearing a red Christmas jumper during filming in May last year. Ms Chadha said according to The Telegraph: '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 didn't work as hard as him to get where he is.' The director, who is known for Bend It Like Beckham and Bride and Prejudice, said the inspiration for the modern-day musical came from politicians in Britain today. A Bollywood-inspired adaptation of A Christmas Carol will star a version of Ebenezer Scrooge who 'despises refugees', the director has revealed The film, called Christmas Karma, is due for release in November this year and will star Danny Dyer (left) and Hugh Bonneville (right) The musical, which is directed by Gurinder Chadha (pictured) and based on the 1843 novella by Charles Dickens, will feature a 'British-Indian' man named Sood as the lead character She added that Christmas Karma, which is set in London, is a celebration of 'all of modern Britain's communities and cultures'. Ms Chadha explained that her version is 'very true to the original text and sentiment' and aims to teach viewers how prejudice in society still exists. 'A hundred-and-eighty-two years later, Dickens' novella still resonates globally in today's sometimes harsh world,' she said. A Christmas Carol traditionally recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge - a miserable old man who is visited by a series of ghosts. He is subsequently transformed into a kinder and more empathetic character. Nayyar, who will play the protagonist in Ms Chadha's musical, is known for his role as Raj Koothrappali in the US sitcom The Big Bang Theory. Meanwhile, Boy George will play the Ghost of Christmas Future and Paddington's Hugh Bonneville will take on the role of the Ghost of Jacob Marley. The film, called Christmas Karma, is due for release in November this year and will star Kunal Nayyar as the protagonist The film, called Christmas Karma, is due for release in November this year and will star Kunal Nayyar, Boy George (left), Eva Longoria (right), Hugh Bonneville and Billy Porter Nayyar, who will play the protagonist in Ms Chadha's musical, is known for his role as Raj Koothrappali in the US sitcom The Big Bang Theory Christmas Karma is the latest in a series of controversial remakes of Dickens' work. In 2019, the BBC's version of A Christmas Carol was slammed by viewers for tampering with the traditional dialogue. Those tuning into episode one of the three-part drama were shocked when lead character Ebeneezer Scrooge [played by Guy Pearce] dropped the F-bomb. The mini-series was written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight. It shocked fans from the off, opening with a scene in which a young boy urinates on the grave of Jacob Marley, calling him 'a skinflint b*****d'. Claire Tomalin, who wrote a celebrated biography of Dickens, said at the time: 'I dont think he would have been very pleased. 'Dickens didnt need people urinating on graves. He reached people through the power of his words and his imagination.' Drivers may have to pay to drive through one of Australia's most popular tourist destinations, in the hope it will deter tourists from flooding the area. Queensland's Noosa Heads has surged in popularity in recent years, and a few of the town's main roads have become heavily congested. It's become a real issue for locals, who are sick of seeing cars parked bumper-to-bumper along their pristine beachside streets. They've been asking Noosa Shire Council to do something about it for some time. Local business operator Louise, who works on Hastings Street at clothing store Okanui, told Daily Mail Noosa had certainly grown in popularity since Covid. She said there was a notable difference in how busy the peak periods were. 'Oh, it's definitely doubled in how busy it is in the summer,' she said. 'It does get crazy. We could end up like Byron Bay in terms of parking metres and that would be horrendous.' Noosa Heads is becoming so popular that a congestion charge may be implemented Hastings Street is one of the more popular regions of Noosa and suffers from heavy traffic in the summer time The council is considering introducing Australia's first congestion road charge, similar to those used in London and New York. It hasn't been decided yet how drivers would be charged for using popular roads, but it could be via a tag on their car or even an old-fashioned toll booth. The charge to drive on certain roads would likely apply only on weekends and during school holidays to begin with. More paid parking is also set to be introduced in busy areas, but residents would be charged at lower rates. The council also wants to introduce more transport infrastructure to discourage tourists from driving their cars along busy roads. The council's Destination Management Plan found the town was "being loved to death," requiring a balance between mitigating issues caused by tourists and making them feel welcome. Locals have until September to provide feedback to the council before a decision is made. "Given we're still in the community engagement and feedback stage, there's nothing concrete that's been decided on this as yet," a council spokesperson told Daily Mail. Tourists have been flocking to Noosa in recent years and are taking over in some parts Hastings Street is filled with shops, bars and restaurants, making it popular for tourists The council has proposed establishing vehicle recognition technology on its roads to help distinguish local cars from out-of-town vehicles, ensuring residents aren't slugged with most of the fees. Professor Matthew Burke from Griffith University told Yahoo News that congestion charges for tourists in places like Noosa could work well. "It would free up that strip (Hastings Street) and discourage people from heading in and causing congestion to everyone else," he said. The congestion charge and added parking meters may also deter illegal campers, who are currently plaguing Noosa. Council introduced $333 fines in July for anyone caught illegally camping along the Peregian Esplanade or at Victory Park along Lorikeet Drive. To date, 50 fines have been handed out in the area. The congestion charge is the latest council move that's set to spark debate among locals. Last year, two groups of Noosa residents clashed over the council's Planning Scheme Amendments, which proposed extending trading hours at popular night spots to midnight every day of the week. Some locals supported more nightlife at Noosa Junction, while others feared the laid-back charm of Noosa would be shattered. Pauline Hanson has accused Anthony Albanese of emboldening terrorists after a senior Hamas extremist praised his decision to recognise the state of Palestine. On Wednesday, Hamas co-founder Sheikh Hassan Youssef praised the Australian Prime Minister's 'courage' in recognising the state of Palestine, a move the senior West Bank leader said vindicated the October 7 attacks. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, who opposes recognition without making security guarantees for Israel, said the endorsement should 'send a chill down your spine'. 'Albanese has handed a propaganda victory to terrorists,' the Senator posted to social media on Thursday morning. 'Hes rewarded violence. And hes betrayed the values we stand for, freedom, democracy, and loyalty to our allies. 'Every time weak leaders appease extremists, the world becomes more dangerous. And Australians pay the price. This isnt leadership. Its surrender.' Youssef, who has been arrested several times by Israel, said recognition by countries like Australia had proven Hamas' armed resistance had raised its diplomatic heft. '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 Sydney Morning Herald. Pauline Hanson said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese had 'handed a propaganda victory to terrorists' after a Hamas leader endorsed his decision to recognise Palestine Hamas co-founder Hassan Youssef (pictured) endorsed Australia's recognition of Palestine despite Mr Albanese claiming the terrorist group would 'totally oppose' the move 'Resistance has proven to be an effective means to break the siege and bring the Palestinian cause back to the international discussion table.' It contradicts claims by Mr Albanese that Hamas would oppose Australia's decision to recognise Palestine as a step towards a two-state solution. On Tuesday - the day after Mr Albanese announced Australia would recognise Palestine at an upcoming UN General Assembly meeting - he said Hamas would be 'totally opposed' to recognition. 'Hamas dont support two states, they support one state,' he told Channel Seven's Sunrise program. In a statement, Mr Albanese said the decision would 'further isolate Hamas' and relied on assurances made by the Palestinian Authority, the governing body in the West Bank. Ms Hanson added the endorsement by Youssef posed a threat to Australia's security, claiming it would embolden domestic extremists. 'I believe that we have fundamentalist terrorist cells in Australia, that is going to give them some confidence in what they stand for, the radicalisation that is happening in this country,' she told Sky News. 'You lay down ground rules first and say: "This is what we want". Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Palestinian recognition would 'further isolate Hamas' before the terror group's co-founder endorsed the decision 'You don't give them what they want and then hope they're going to get a democratic government, that Hamas will give up their weapons, they'll hand over their hostages and the bodies of the dead and the dying and make an agreement.' Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Michaelia Cash said Mr Albanese should 'hang his head in shame' after being praised by Hamas. 'All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter,' she said. On Thursday morning, Albanese told reporters he would 'not be a cheer squad for Hamas' and cast doubt on Youssef's statement, claiming he has been imprisoned in Israel since October 2023 and has no way of communicating. 'What that should be is a warning to the media to be very careful about the fact that Hamas will engage in propaganda, because what is happening is that the international community are united about isolating Hamas, about supporting a peaceful way forward,' he said. He urged the media not to 'repeat Hamas's propaganda.' Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has said the Coalition would revoke Palestinian recognition if elected in three years. 'The Coalition would have never made this call and we do not agree with it,' Ms Ley said in a statement on Tuesday. Australia is set to recognise the State of Palestine at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September along with Canada, France and the UK. A shooter opened fire on deputies in Virginia executing a warrant, leaving two injured. Deputies with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff's had appeared at an address in Pittsville on Wednesday night when they were met with gunfire. Authorities say James Andru Lehnerd opened fire on three deputies from inside the home on Blue Jay Lane. The sheriff's office said that two were hit with shrapnel, one of them was taken to a hospital for treatment of non life threatening injuries and has been released. The third was not injured. A standoff ensued between officers and Lehnerd for hours before a SWAT team moved in to pull him from the home. The Pittsylvania County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office said that Lehnerd would be charged while the Virginia State Police will conduct the investigation. Multiple law enforcement agencies had rushed to an address in the rural area of Pittsylvania County on Wednesday night. Virginia State Police authorities told WSET they had been attempting to serve warrants at an address in Pittsville when things 'went south'. Emergency teams are on the scene at an address near Gretna in Pittsylvania County A WDBJ7 reporter on the ground said there is 'very heavy scene at the intersection of Pittsville Road and Homestead Road' According to the outlet teams outside resorted to using loudspeakers outside and calling for whoever is inside to come out. State troopers, fire and rescue teams, the US Marshalls and a helicopter were all at the scene attempting to subdue the shooter. In a statement, Congressman John McGuire confirmed that deputies had been shot. 'My thoughts and prayers are with the two deputies who were shot in Pittsylvania County, as well as their families,' McGuire said. 'We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time.' Gubernatorial candidate for the state Abigail Spanberger added: 'While we await more information, Adam and I are praying for the members of law enforcement who were shot while responding to an incident in Pittsylvania County. 'Were so grateful for our first responders, who run towards danger to keep Virginians safe.' Pittsylvania County is in the southern part of the state near the border with North Carolina. This is a breaking news story. Australia's longest serving member of federal parliament has thrown his support behind a growing nationwide movement calling for the end to mass migration. Tens of thousands of patriotic Australians claim they will take to the streets on August 31 in capital cities across the country, just weeks after a 90,000-strong pro-Palestine rally shut down the Sydney Harbour Bridge and brought the CBD to an abrupt standstill, sparking chaotic scenes. March for Australia is the group behind the rallies and has described itself as a 'grassroots coalition of nationalists, patriots, and everyday Australians'. 'Our streets have seen growing displays of anti-Australian hatred, foreign conflicts, and disintegrating trust, while mass migration has torn at the bonds that held our communities together,' its website states. 'This march is a stand for the people, culture, and nation that built Australia - and for our right to decide its future.' The movement has already sparked a divisive reaction, led by former reality star/influencer Abbie Chatfield, who condemned the racist' and 'bigoted' rallies. While little is known about those behind the group, organisers have quickly distanced themselves from the neo-Nazi National Socialist Network, White Australia and Thomas Sewell Uncensored. As March for Australia prepares to share more details about the upcoming rallies, North Queensland-based federal MP Bob Katter is among the first prominent politicians to pledge his support. North Queensland-based federal MP Bob Katter has thrown his support behind March for Australia rallies on August 31 Tens of thousands of patriotic Australians will take to the streets later this month to address the federal government's ongoing mass migration policy 'We will be throwing everything behind the Sunday march on August 31 against migration,' he said. 'Our race of people, our country, is drowning in a flood of immigration. 'Now surely, if you're going to bring people to this country, there should be some sort of integration factor.' Katter added that an authority will be set up to represent the Australian people. 'The people of Australia are now in a rage and fury,' he said. 'And if you show contempt for the people of Australia, they will deal with you two-and-a-half years time at the next election.' Katter also addressed rumours that the march is being hijacked by supremacist and neo-Nazi organisations. 'I want to make to make it clear, I will have nothing to do with hate,' he captioned the video. Thousands of Aussies will converge on capital cities to demand an end to mass immigration The upcoming march comes after 90,000 Sydneysiders brought the city to a standstill for a pro-Palestine rally on August 3 'We must ensure that this March is for all Australians, not hijacked by anyone else. 'Australians must unite. This is our lifestyle, our culture and our future.' Right-wing political commentator Rukshan Fernando has also pledged his support for the event. 'As a proud Australian I'm looking forward to marching at the end of the month with other fellow Australians,' he said earlier this week. March for Australia this week shared a Q&A ahead of more details about rally locations to be unveiled on Friday. The aim of the march is to address the federal government's ongoing mass migration policy. 'Due to the nature of how March for Australia developed, our organisers have come from a diverse range of political backgrounds,' the group explained. 'None of our organisers are associated with the National Socialist Network, White Australia, or Thomas Sewell Uncensored. 'Further to this, none of our organisers are associated with any Israeli, Zionist, Jewish, or Palestinian groups. 'Any attempts to hijack March For Australia for other issues, or to make it about any one group, are not in the spirit of the movement that we have taken custody of.' Right-wing political commentator Rukshan Fernando (pictured right with Sam Newman) has also thrown his support behind March for Australia March for Australia organisers have distanced themselves from neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell (pictured) The group also reiterated that its 'peaceful' rallies are not intended to incite hate or violence. 'We will assemble peacefully, to defend our flag, our people, and demand an end to mass immigration,' it continued. 'It would be very convenient for the government and the lobbies that push for endless migration into this country if this day turned violent; it would give them an easy excuse to dismiss the millions of Australians who want an end to mass immigration by labelling us as 'violent'. The group has stressed that it doesn't sell merchandise, nor request donations. 'We don't want your money, just for you to show up with your Aussie flag,' it added. Daily Mail has contacted March for Australia for further comment. A Lowy Institute poll released in June found that more than half of Australians (53 per cent) believe the number of migrants coming into the country each year is 'too high', up five points from the previous year. Another 38 per cent believed immigration levels were 'about right', while only 7 per cent thought they were 'too low'. As a political leader in Australia there are endorsements you want, endorsements you can live with and endorsements you would rather never have come your way. Undoubtedly the latter includes the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, which has now endorsed Anthony Albanese's decision-making credentials as Prime Minister. It has welcomed his decision to recognise Palestine as a state. When the Chinese Communist Party's propaganda rag, The China Daily, offered glowing praise of the job Albo has been doing during his recent trip to Beijing, that was the sort of endorsement you can live with. There are obvious downsides to be sure, but as our largest trading partner Albo would have found it somewhat comforting to know that his relationship with the Chinese President was going so well. The PM is yet to receive anything but a half-hearted Donald Trump endorsement. While a US President lavishing praise on an Aussie PM is usually a good thing (think George W Bush describing John Howard as a 'man of steel') in the Trump era - where he is extraordinarily unpopular in Australia - little is ordinary. But getting back to Hamas and its burgeoning love affair with Albo, to be fair to the PM it was always going to happen once he recognised Palestine. Hamas wants more than that of course. It wants Israel wiped off the face of the map, literally! But recognition of Palestine as a state by a nation like Australia was always going to win Hamas applause, because it works as a propaganda tool. Hamas militants are pictured in central Gaza in February before handing over three Israeli hostages Which is also why opponents of Albanese pleaded with him not to give them such a victory. At least not before the hostages have all been released. It may or may not have been a mistake to follow the likes of Britain and France in recognising Palestine now. History will tell us its consequences for better or worse in good time. And Albanese being praised by Hamas is, of itself, nothing to write home about. He has always been highly critical of the terrorist group, as indeed he must. But the PM certainly stuffed up when he rejected Benjamin Netanyahu's view that recognising a Palestinian state would be 'rewarding Hamas'. Let's revisit the tape: JOURNALIST: 'When you spoke to Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister, I imagine he argued that in recognising Palestinian statehood, it would be rewarding Hamas. He's said that publicly, we've heard the same comment from Marco Rubio, and indeed we've heard it from the Coalition as well. What's your answer to that assertion?' PRIME MINISTER: 'Hamas don't support two states. Hamas support one state, in their words, from the river to the sea. Hamas do not support recognising the right of Israel to exist. This is an opportunity to isolate Hamas that has been forged by the very clear statements of the Palestinian Authority on June 10 and the very clear statements of the Arab League.' Saying that was always going to leave Albo with egg all over his face when Hamas publicly recognised the PM's news, as they have now done, claiming this decision shows 'political courage'. It's not that the principle of recognising Palestinian statehood is inherently wrong. Most Australians accept the long-term logic of a two-state solution and want to see a viable pathway towards peace. But timing matters. Doing it while more than 50 hostages remain in Hamas captivity, without meaningful reforms inside the Palestinian Authority, risks giving away leverage without securing anything in return. It also muddies the waters by making it harder to separate legitimate aspirations for Palestinian statehood from the terrorism that lit the fuse for the current conflict. Supporters of the government argue that recognition pressures the Palestinian Authority to reform, bolsters moderates and helps isolate Hamas in the long run. The problem is that the Palestinian Authority's track record inspires little confidence. Riddled with patronage, unpopular with its own people, and lacking control in Gaza, it risks being outmanoeuvred by Hamas the moment international pressure eases. Without a credible plan for governance, security, and free elections, recognition alone may prove an empty gesture. There's also the question of Israel's response. Isolating the only functioning democracy in the Middle East without a parallel package of security guarantees, reconstruction planning and conditionality on both sides is a high-risk move. Recognition might create a sense of diplomatic momentum alongside allies such as the UK and France, but it doesn't in itself bring hostages home, reform the Palestinian Authority or disarm Hamas. Those outcomes require sustained leverage, regional buy-in and trust. At present none of those are in ready supply. In the end, Hamas's endorsement of Albo's decision is not a decisive reason to oppose recognising Palestine, but it should at least give the Prime Minister pause for thought. Symbolism has consequences, and the wrong symbolism at the wrong time can embolden precisely those actors Australia and its allies are trying to marginalise. Whether the PM's call is remembered as a principled stand or a premature gamble will depend entirely on what follows, and whether those lofty aims can be turned into tangible, lasting progress. An influencer couple who died in an off-roading horror crash rolled 'many, many times' as they plunged more than 650 feet down a rocky mountain in Canada. Stacey Tourout and Matthew Yeomans, the pair behind the Toyota World Runners YouTube channel, died on the evening of August 7 in the mountainous area near Trout Lake in British Columbia. The pair garnered more than 200,000 subscribers and more than 72,000 Instagram followers by documenting their explorations through North and South America. They were no strangers to off-roading - making their death even harder to swallow for their loyal fanbase and tight-knit all-terrain community. Rescuers have revealed the harrowing circumstances of their fatal accident. The engaged couple was traveling along a forestry road 'somewhere in the mountains' near Trout Lake, Mark Jennings-Bates, a manager of the Kaslo Search and Rescue (SAR) team that found them, told CBC. Once rescuers arrived on site, responding to reports called in about the accident, one of the victims was already dead. The other was in a critical state, 'disoriented and suffering from serious injuries,' Jennings-Bate said. That individual later died at the hospital. It is unclear if it was Tourout or Yeomans who died at the scene. Stacey Tourout (right) and Matthew Yeomans (left) died on August 7 in the mountainous region near Trout Lake in British Columbia They were off-roading in the mountain region near Trout Lake in British Columbia (pictured) Stacey and Mathew's claim to fame was building the 'world's first Land Cruiser Chinook in 100 days,' according to their YouTube bio (pictured: the Cruiser) While the official cause of the crash has not yet been confirmed, investigators believe they likely lost control of the vehicle - causing them to plummet down a mountain. Jennings-Bates estimated they fell about 200 meters - 656 feet - downhill until they slammed into the bottom. They likely rolled 'many, many times' during the terrifying ordeal. He also described the rescue operation as 'challenging' because it was a long uphill journey to get to them, although he said his team did so 'efficiently.' He also noted his team has responded to the many calls in the area where they died, as it is difficult to navigate and rugged. Stacey's mother confirmed the couple's death in a heartbreaking social media post. She wrote they died together in an off-road accident 'in the beautiful mountains of British Columbia that they loved so much.' 'Please keep us and them in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this devastating end to an amazing Love Story,' Colleen Tourout wrote. In light of the devastating loss to their loved ones and the international online community they have built, social media has been flooded with heartfelt tributes, remembering the ambitious duo. Stacey Tourout (left) and Matthew Yeomans (right) died on August 7 in the mountainous region near Trout Lake in British Columbia 'They were so young and full of life, so talented, and this is a huge loss for our off-road community, their friends and family, and the world,' the creator behind The Story Till Now YouTube channel, Shaun, wrote. He explained that while he never met them in person, he often spoke with Matthew on the phone. Shaun revealed that the last time he had spoken to Matthew was the day before he and his fiancee died. Shaun's jeep broke down, and he was 'trying to figure out how to get it home.' 'We joked about how we would have finally met up the next day if not for my Jeep breaking down, but talked about getting some firm plans on the books for a trip next month. 'They tragically passed away that very next day in an accident, and Im just devastated over it.' Another off-roading creator, Colin Stuart who runs the Dirt Theory channel, said he was with the couple when the horror unfolded. 'I was with them when it happened and did everything in my power to save them,' he wrote on Facebook. 'Those were the hardest 20 hours I have ever lived. The hardest decisions I have ever had to make. 'I'm sorry to all that this has affected. This is a big loss for the offroad community and a bigger loss to Matthew's and Stacey's family and close friends.' In a tear-jerking obituary written for the couple, they were described as the 'heart and soul' of the off-roading community. They uploaded their very last YouTube video on July 31, just about a week before they died (pictured) Along with their cruiser adventures, they also documented their many RV retrofits, often combining parts of different vehicles to make them suitable for off-roading (pictured: Stacey) Amid this harrowing tragedy, Jennings-Bates has warned people to proceed with caution when it comes to off-roading. Stacey and Mathew's claim to fame was building the 'world's first Land Cruiser Chinook in 100 days,' according to their YouTube bio. The custom vehicle combines the body of a Toyota Chinook camper and a Toyota Land Cruiser to essentially create a camper suitable for off-roading. It is unclear if they were driving the Land Cruiser when the fatal crash occurred. Along with their cruiser adventures, they also documented their many RV retrofits, often combining parts of different vehicles to make them suitable for off-roading. They uploaded their very last YouTube video on July 31, just about a week before they died. In the nearly hour-long segment, the pair documented their off-roading trip across Vancouver Island. Pressure was last night coming from within Labour for Keir Starmer to sack his trade envoy to Turkey over an unauthorised trip. Afzal Khan is back in the UK after a trip to the self-declared Turkish republic of northern Cyprus - a territory the UK, and most of the rest of the world, does not recognise. During his trip, the MP for Manchester Rusholme met Ersin Tatar, the leader of Turkish Cypriots, in his official residence. He posed for a photo with the leader, giving a suggestion of a bilateral meeting as opposed to a personal visit. After days of questions being asked by others, the Daily Mail understands the matter is being raised internally within Labour, with a sense of unhappiness as to how it has been allowed to escalate into a diplomatic spat and demands that No 10 act. Labour MPs are also believed to have raised the matter with ministers to channel the fury of Greek Cypriots over the trip. The official government of Cyprus said the visit last week was 'absolutely condemnable and unacceptable' and that UK officials should 'respect' their state. The official Cypriot government condemned the 'unacceptable' trip by Labour's Afzal Khan (left), piling pressure on Sir Keir Starmer to sack him Above, the Labour MP with the Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar (right) Pressure is now piling for Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) to sack Khan It also provoked an outcry from Greek Cypriots who have called for his dismissal over a breach of UN resolutions that forbid recognition of the territory's government. Mr Khan was due to receive a degree from a local university, but no announcement has been made, suggesting he may have been recalled by the UK Government or a news blackout was imposed, given the controversy. The trip is said to have been a 'personal' visit and ministers were not aware of the plans, raising further questions about whether he can remain in his job. Tory MP Sir Roger Gale, the honorary president of the all-party parliamentary group for Cyprus, said Sir Keir should sack Mr Khan. 'The UK has a responsibility as a guarantor power to Cyprus,' he added. 'His position as trade envoy is untenable.' Shadow foreign affairs minister Wendy Morton has written to ministers calling for the envoy to be removed from his role. 'This visit risks undermining the UK's credibility as a guarantor power and as an impartial interlocutor in settlement negotiations,' she said. Mr Tatar waded into the row this week by criticising the 'intolerant statements and excessive attacks made by the Greek Cypriot side'. A hardline nationalist who is close to Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, he added that the visit was undertaken 'at my invitation'. Mr Tatar told Mr Khan he wanted to pursue a 'two-state solution' despite no international recognition of the seized territory, it was reported. Mr Khan replied that his friends of Cypriot origin living in Manchester had encouraged him to visit the island, adding: 'That is why I am happy to be here.' A government spokesman said last night the visit was 'undertaken in a personal capacity' and there was no change to the UK's long-standing position on the seized territory. Alaska's capital suffered massive flooding and record-high water levels after an ice dam burst at a nearby glacier, releasing a powerful surge of rainwater and snowmelt. The Mendenhall River overflowed earlier in the day, sending water into streets and some residential yards of Juneau on Wednesday. Some residents were able to return to their home while other areas remained 'closed until further notice.' 'Residents are urged to use extreme caution near damaged structures, stay off riverbanks, and avoid driving through standing water,' a statement from the Juneau city website reads. 'Officials warn that driving through flooded areas can create damaging waves that further impact nearby buildings.' The newly installed flood barriers, built earlier this year to protect the community from the looming ice caps, are believed to be the reason the community was spared from further devastation. 'They really have protected our community,' Juneau City Manager Katie Koester said during a news conference. 'If it weren't for them, we would have hundreds and hundreds of flooded homes.' Alaskans were forced to evacuate their homes after the Mendenhall River was overwhelmed on Tuesday, sending dangerous floodwaters and debris into surrounding communities. Pictured: Flooding from a release of water and snowmelt at Mendenhall Glacier on August 13, 2025 in Juneau, Alaska Roads across the region were closed, including Mendenhall Loop Road, which will remain off-limits until water levels drop below 12 feet and safety inspections are complete. Pictured: Flooding from a release of water and snowmelt at Mendenhall Glacier covered some roads and threatened homes along the Mendenhall River in Juneau, Alaska 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 10,000 'Hesco' barriers are essentially giant, reinforced sandbags intended to protect more than 460 properties, said emergency manager Ryan O'Shaughnessy, The Associated Press reported. The Juneau Assembly required homeowners in the flood zone to cover 40 percent of the cost - amounting to about $6,300 each over 10 years. Additionally, a handful of homeowners were asked to chip in $50,000 toward reinforcing the river bank. Only about one-quarter of the residents formally objected, not enough to call quits on the project. While flooding did occur, the impacts were far less severe than those seen in 2023 and 2024, when nearly 300 homes were inundated during similar glacial outburst events. The devastating flooding began after water from Suicide Basin - a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier, located about 10 miles above the state's capital - broke free, inundating roads, damaging infrastructure, and prompting emergency warnings. 'A glacial outburst has occurred at Suicide Basin,' officials wrote in a statement on Tuesday afternoon. 'The basin is releasing and flooding is expected along the Mendenhall Lake and River late Tuesday through Wednesday.' City officials urged residents living within the 17-foot lake level inundation zone to evacuate the area immediately, adding that when the area is deemed 'all clear,' a wireless emergency alert will be sent to residents, Fox4 News reported. Roads across the region were closed, including Mendenhall Loop Road, which will remain off-limits until water levels drop below 12 feet and safety inspections are complete. City officials urged residents living within the 17-foot lake level inundation zone to evacuate the area immediately. Pictured: The engorged Mendenhall River flowing through Juneau, Alaska, on August 13, 2025 The devastating flooding began after water from Suicide Basin - a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier, located about 10 miles above the state's capital - broke free The destructive flooding was triggered by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), a type of event that occurs when water dammed behind glacial ice or debris is suddenly released. Pictured: Flooding from a release of water and snowmelt at Mendenhall Glacier on Augusr 13, 2025 in Juneau, Alaska In addition, multiple public facilities along the overflowing river, including the Mendenhall Valley Public Library and the Diamond Park Aquatic Center, were shut down. The Federal Aviation Administration has also issued a temporary flight restriction over the area to ensure safety for aerial flood monitoring and response. 'This TFR creates controlled airspace to ensure safe aerial operations for geo-hazard monitoring, flood response, and potential evacuations,' the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities said. The National Weather Service (NWS) has also issued a flood warning for the Mendenhall River, where water levels topped 16 feet early Wednesday - surpassing last year's record crest of 15.99 feet. 'Our forecast right now... we're thinking our crest might be closer to 8 in the morning and might be closer to the higher end of the spectrum,' Andrew Park, a meteorologist with the NWS Juneau office, said. 'This will be a new record, based on all of the information that we have,' NWS meteorologist Nicole Ferrin added during a Tuesday press conference. Experts are now warning local residents not to approach the water. 'There is a lot of debris in the river. Please stay away from the river. It's very dangerous right now,' Park added, explaining, 'if you get in that water, you're not going to make it out of there.' The destructive flooding was triggered by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF), a type of event that occurs when water dammed behind glacial ice or debris is suddenly released. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) describes GLOFs as unpredictable, warning they have caused 'significant loss of life and infrastructure worldwide.' Suicide Basin - named for the constant avalanches of ice that occur from the hanging glacier above it - has released glacial floodwaters annually since 2011, with record-breaking floods reported in both 2023 and 2024. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) describes GLOFs as unpredictable, warning they have caused 'significant loss of life and infrastructure worldwide.' Pictured: The Suicide Basin before the glacial lake outburst flooding from the Mendenhall Glacier Officials predict that the volume of water being released from the basin during recent events is increasing - a trend scientists link to climate change. Pictured: The Suicide Basin during the glacial lake outburst flooding on August 12, 2025 However now, officials predict that the volume of water being released from the basin during recent events is increasing - a trend scientists link to climate change. The Juneau city website compares the process of a glacial lake outburst to 'pulling the plug from a full bathtub. 'When the basin fills with meltwater and rainfall, it can suddenly breach the ice dam, sending torrents of water downhill. As global temperatures continue to rise, devastating weather events, like the powerful flood waters seen in Alaska this week, are expected to become more common. According to NOAA, Alaska has warmed twice as fast as the rest of the U.S., with average annual temperatures rising 3.1 degrees Fahrenheit over the last century, and as glaciers retreat, meltwater collects in unstable basins, increasing the risk of sudden floods. A 2019 study found the world's glaciers are losing up to 390 billion tons of ice and snow each year, with Alaska's glaciers contributing significantly, USA Today reported. A glamorous Florida congresswoman shared a jaw-dropping UFO encounter she had while serving in the US Air Force on an episode of Joe Rogan's podcast. Conservative House Representative Anna Paulina Luna sat down with the UFC commentator during an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience aired on Wednesday. During the more than two-hour segment, Luna, 36, detailed what she believed to have been an extraterrestrial experience. She said she spotted an unidentified anomalous phenomenon (UAP) while serving as an air manager at the Portland Air National Guard. UAP is a term adapted by the government to broaden the scope of unexplained sightings because UFO specifically refers to flying otherworldly objects. There was an 'airspace incursion' that she feels was oddly swept under the rug. 'I remember talking to some of the pilots about it, and I was like, "what was that?" And they're like, "We can't really talk about it,"' she recalled. 'No one really wanted to address it, and so from what I had gathered, that had been likely a UAP.' Conservative House Representative Anna Paulina Luna (pictured) has been vocal about her stance the UFOs are real Luna (pictured) sat down with the UFC commentator during an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience aired on Wednesday A glamorous Florida congresswoman shared a jaw-dropping UFO encounter she had while serving in the US Air Force on an episode of Joe Rogan's (pictured)podcast Luna went on to explain she did not look at the possibility of UFOs or UAPs through a 'crazy lens or perspective.' 'You never know if we're the only ones out there,' she bluntly asserted. Luna has been vocal about her belief that UFOs are 'not of human origin' and has called for more federal government transparency on the matter. She told Rogan that the sentiment that people reporting these kinds of sightings are 'crazy' is a 'disinformation campaign to get people to shut up about it.' 'We know that the US government has not exactly been clean about a lot of what they've done with the American people, specifically to the topic of UFOs,' she said. The MAGA firebrand has been persistent in her pursuit to unveil what she believes to be the truth about UFOs. She is a member of the House Committee on Oversight, which has been probing the possibility of UAPs and urging federal officials for 'transparency.' Luna (pictured) said she spotted an unidentified anomalous phenomenon (UAP) while serving as an air manager at the Portland Air National Guard Luna (pictured with her husband Andrew Gamberzky) is a member of the House Committee on Oversight 'Congress and the American people have fundamental questions on the topic of UAPs and incursions near sensitive military installations,' a November 2024 press release from the committee reads. 'Increased disclosure and transparency are needed to provide security and information.' In August 2023, she even threatened to defund Pentagon bosses' salaries if they refused to cough up their alleged secrets. Luna's threat came just after a congressional hearing where 14-year intelligence veteran David Grusch testified under oath that he had evidence of a secret alien ship crash retrieval program, presenting pictures and interviews with insiders. In February last year, she solidified her stance once again on the Grant Mitt Podcast. After a classified meeting with Air Force whistleblowers, she 'absolutely believes' the aircrafts she and many others have described are 'of non-human origin.' After a classified meeting with Air Force whistleblowers, she 'absolutely believes' the aircrafts she and many others have described are 'of non-human origin.' Luna (pictured with Donald Trump) believes the government is hiding information about UFOs Luna also claimed that at that same meeting she was 'men-in-blacked,' first by officials from the Pentagon who attempted to cancel the visit, and then by CIA agents who were inexplicably shadowing her meeting with the Air Force personnel. Her phrase referred to the pop-culture conspiracy theory image that originated from the 'Men in Black' of government agents in black suits, who are sent to keep people quiet about UFO sightings. 'Being a member of Oversight, we follow up with whistleblowers, and we also can conduct our own investigations,' she said. Hundreds of Aboriginal businesses receiving taxpayer funding have failed to submit all of their required documents in a revelation that has drawn the wrath of Senator Pauline Hanson. A report published on August 6 revealed 1254 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses failed to lodge necessary general, financial, auditor or director reports during the 2023-2024 financial year. Of this number, 26 firms were classified as 'large' with an income above $100,000, according to the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC). The number had risen year-on-year, with 792 companies failing to lodge the documentation with the ORIC in the previous financial year. Politicians have leapt on the data, particularly the firebrand One Nation senator, who called for a widespread audit of the groups on Thursday, saying that transparency and accountability were paramount. 'Some of these organisations have eight or nine-figure budgets and millions of dollars worth of assets, with CEOs earning wages well over $250,000,' Senator Hanson said. 'One Nation renews our call for a comprehensive audit of this corrupt, nepotistic Aboriginal industry that is preying on Australian taxpayers.' She claimed the system was 'denying meaningful assistance to Indigenous Australians in genuine need' and 'failed for decades to make any meaningful progress in closing the gaps'. Pauline Hanson (pictured) has called for an audit after 1254 Indigenous companies failed to lodge important reports with the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations 'The Australian people have every right to know exactly how every cent of their money is being spent, but the people running this gravy train clearly do not want to be held accountable.' The senator also took aim at the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI) which operates independently from the legislation overseen by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Complaining about the 'reduced compliance required of Indigenous corporations', she claimed they are not even meeting these standards. 'There will never be meaningful progress in closing the gaps until those charged with closing them are held accountable,' she said. Coalition Indigenous affairs spokeswoman Kerrynne Liddle also old the Herald Sun the findings by ORIC were 'unacceptable'. 'Where organisations receive taxpayer money to deliver these critical services, they must meet all regulatory, governance and legislative standards,' she said. 'Where they do not, it is fair to question whether they are delivering services as intended.' But Tricia Stroud, who is Registrar of ORIC, said it is incorrect to suggest companies registered under the CATSI Act have lesser accountability for taxpayer funds. The Albanese government said reporting is under the jurisdiction of the independent regulator 'Of the 1,254 corporations yet to lodge their 202324 reports, 82.4 per cent are classified as small, with annual income typically under $100,000,' she said. 'These corporations are less likely to receive government funding.' 'Secondly, assertions of lack of accountability or lower standards under the CATSI Act are unfounded,' Ms Stroud said. She explained that the CATSI Act does not reduce compliance requirements compared to the Corporations Act 2001, adding many firms would face fewer reporting requirements if they were registered under the Corporations Act 2001. She ended by adding that her role is 'independent and impartial and does not engage in political debate (but) she strongly defends the transparency of the sector'. A government spokeswoman told the Herald Sun the management of reporting by Indigenous organisations was a matter for the independent regulator, ORIC. 'ORIC's independent regulation is fundamental to the accountability of the diverse First Nations corporate sector registered under the Act,' she said. Washington DC is bracing for an influx of armed troops to crack down on crime as President Trump's federal takeover was expected to escalate into its next stage. Trump vowed earlier this week to rescue the capital from 'bloodshed' and has already sent hundreds of troops from the National Guard in to clean up crime. But now they're ready to take the streets, as officials say 100 and 200 soldiers will be out on patrol 24/7 as more forces flood into the city, Col. Dave Butler said. 'D.C. has been under siege from thugs and killers, but now, D.C. is back under Federal Control where it belongs. The White House is in charge,' Trump said on Truth Social Wednesday night. 'The Military and our Great Police will liberate this City, scrape away the filth, and make it safe, clean, habitable and beautiful once more!' After the announcement, protesters lined the streets while shouting, 'Go home, fascists' and 'Get off our streets.' Law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint along the busy 14th Street Northwest corridor. Some protesters stood at the intersection before the checkpoint and urged drivers to turn evade the officers, while shouting at them to 'take off their f****** masks'. FBI agents walk down Florida Ave between 14th street NW and 13th street NW on August 13, 2025 in Washington, DC Law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint along the busy 14th Street Northwest corridor, hecklers shouted, 'Go home, fascists' and 'Get off our streets' The commander-in-chief on Monday said the plan was to 'rescue our nation's capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam and squalor'. Trump has repeatedly said that crime in the city was at emergency levels that required a federal intervention to straighten out. District of Columbia leaders however pointed to stats that show violent crime was at a 30-year-low after a sharp rise two years ago. Over the last few days small groups of officers had been visible in scattered areas across the city. Their presence was more noticeable on Wednesday as the amount of boots on the ground continued to rise. A National Guard spokesman, who spoke with the Associated Press anonymously, said troops would start carrying out more missions on Thursday. On Wednesday, agents from Homeland Security Investigations patrolled the popular U Street corridor. Drug Enforcement Administration officers were seen on the National Mall, while National Guard members were parked nearby. President Donald Trump speaks at a White House press briefing flanked by Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth Police detains a person for driving without a license in the Brightwood neighborhood Officers are seen here searching the belongings of the man who was arrested for allegedly driving without a license Trump has repeatedly said that crime in the city was at emergency levels that required a federal intervention to straighten out DEA agents also joined Metropolitan Police Department officers on patrol in the Navy Yard neighborhood, while FBI agents stood along Massachusetts Avenue. Hundreds of federal law enforcement and cops who patrolled the streets Tuesday night made 43 arrests, compared with about two dozen the night before. The arrests made by 1,450 federal and local officers across the city included those for suspicion of driving under the influence and unlawful entry, as well as a warrant for assault with a deadly weapon, according to the White House. Seven illegal firearms were seized. There have now been more than 100 arrests since Trump began beefing up the federal law enforcement presence in Washington last week, White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said. Trump suggested he could seek a longer period of control or decide to call on Congress to exercise authority over city laws his administration sees as lax on crime. 'We're gonna do this very quickly. But we're gonna want extensions. I don't want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will,' he said. His Wednesday night post added: 'D.C. has been under siege from thugs and killers, but now, D.C. is back under Federal Control where it belongs. The White House is in charge.' A protester confronts a Metropolitan Police Department officer in the U street neighborhood on August 13 Members of the military walk to the Guard's headquarters at the D.C. Armory on August 12, 2025 Police Chief Pamela Smith said during an interview with the local Fox affiliate that the city's Metro Police Department has been down nearly 800 officers. She said the increased number of federal agents on the streets would help fill that gap, at least for now. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, who described the move on Tuesday as being 'authoritarian', said officials did not get any specific goals for the surge during a meeting with Trump's attorney general, Pam Bondi. She said: 'I think they regard it as a success to have more presence and take more guns off the street, and we do too.' On Monday, the president also 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. A man who cut off his dead brother's ear has lost a court bid to have the samples returned to him by cops in a bizarre inheritance battle. Sydney man Jian Zhong Li removed part of his sibling Jian Ming Li's ear with pliers before his cremation in March 2022. He did so because he claimed he was trying to prove his brother didn't have a biological child. Jian Ming died of complications from Covid-19 and did not leave a will. His only son, Cheng Zhang Li, stood to inherit his father's entire estate under NSW succession laws that apply when a person dies without a will or a spouse. However, if the deceased did not have any biological children, the brothers' mother, Quin, would have inherited the estate. The deceased's contested estate included a million-dollar property in Petersham, in Sydney's Inner West. NSW Supreme Court Justice Michael Slattery explained, in a decision on Tuesday, how Mr Li cut off his brother's ear without anyone, including the funeral director, knowing. Jian Zhong Li (pictured) cut off part of his brother's ear with pliers before his cremation in March 2022 The coffin was shut, the funeral ceremony then took place, and the deceased's body was cremated the following day. Mr Li, who kept the samples of his brother's ear in two glass jars in his freezer, was subsequently charged with improperly interfering with a corpse. He pleaded guilty, was convicted in late 2023, and fined $1,500. The sample was obtained illegally because he did not obtain permission from Cheng as senior next of kin. In May, the deceased's brother and mother applied to the Supreme Court for an order to release the samples to Mr Li by NSW Police for the purpose of DNA testing. However, Slattery refused the request citing the the court 'had already dealt with the issue of Cheng's paternity', and DNA testing had proven he was the deceased's son. In August 2023, the court ordered Cheng and Mr Li to undertake DNA testing. The results 'returned a 99.9 per cent probability that Cheng was related to the applicants', the judge said. Jian Zhong Li (left) applied to the Supreme Court to have the samples he took from his brother (right) released to him from NSW Police Cheng was declared the child of the deceased by the court in October 2023 and was made orders to allow him to administer his father's estate. Slattery said the deceased's brother and mother 'did not challenge the results of the DNA testing at the time', the Sydney Morning Herald reported. The judge added the samples would 'most likely not be admissible... as it was obtained illegally'. An Air New Zealand flight packed with travellers has been diverted to Sydney due to a mechanical issue onboard the plane mid-journey. Flight ANZ175 from Auckland to Perth was diverted near the northern part of Tasmania and is now headed for Sydney. The seven-and-a-half-hour flight left Auckland just before 12.30pm local time and was scheduled to arrive in Perth just before 4pm. Flight radar data shows that the plane diverted north 2193km into the 5336km flight. Air New Zealand later revealed that the plane was diverted due to a fuel discrepancy as a precautionary measure, required engineering investigation. Flight ANZ175 from Auckland to Perth has been diverted to Sydney due to a mechanical issue The Air New Zealand plane took off from Auckland Airport just before 12.30pm local time 'Safety is always our utmost priority, and this is standard practice in these circumstances,' chief safety and risk officer Nathan McGraw told Daily Mail. 'Our teams are working to rebook customers on the next available service. 'We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and appreciate our customers' patience and understanding.' Hospitality group Merivale has fired back over allegations one of its restaurants refused to serve people wearing pro-Palestinian scarves after the recent Sydney Harbour Bridge protest. Seven people told the Sydney Morning Herald they weren't allowed in to Jimmy's Falafel on George Street on August 3 unless they took off their keffiyehs - the Middle Eastern headscarf that has become a symbol of the pro-Palestinian movement. Jimmy's Falafel is just one of more than 90 venues operated by Merivale, which is owned by billionaire Justin Hemmes. A Merivale spokesman said management banned anyone carrying or displaying flags and placards inside the venue between 3.55pm and 4.15pm on the day of the protest for the safety of staff. They claimed the decision was made following 'many instances of rogue members of the public passing Ivy venues on George Street and shouting obscenities and violent rhetoric inside'. According to Merivale, some protesters who walked by had shouted 'death to the IDF', 'death to all Zionist pigs', and 'f***ing Zionist pigs and scum' towards Jimmy's Falafel. CCTV from the venue, that does not have audio, showed multiple groups of people were turned away from Jimmy's Falafel during the 20-minute ban. Farah Ghafar was one of the protesters who claims she was told to remove her keffiyeh-printed hijab. 'I felt excluded. I felt discriminated against,' she said. Seven people told the Sydney Morning Herald they weren't allowed in to Jimmy's Falafel on George Street on August 3 unless they took off their keffiyehs Authorities believe around 90,000 people arrived at the Harbour Bridge on August 3 It is not suggested she had yelled anything towards the restaurant. 'I have never, ever in my life been refused service based on what I was wearing, or asked to remove an item of clothing in order to enter a store.' Farah, who is considering legal action against Merivale, said when she and her sister went back to ask the manager of Jimmy's Falafel why they couldn't enter, they got an apology and were allegedly told security shouldn't have refused them entry. They claimed they were told the request to remove the keffiyeh was to maintain the restaurant's neutral stance and ensure the safety of employees and others inside. Another person, who asked not to be named, said he and his wife were also told they could not dine in unless they removed their scarves and claimed the guard told them they didn't know why. 'He said that he was following orders [from management] and that our scarves were not allowed in, and if we wanted to sit inside, we would have to take our scarves off,' the man claimed. The Merivale spokesman said the march was a 'challenging time for venue staff' and that it didn't want to get involved in the politics of the day, but had safety on their mind. 'The safety and comfort of staff and patrons is always a priority at our venuesaggression and discrimination are never tolerated.,' a spokeswoman said in a statement. 'No Merivale venues, including Jimmy's Falafel, have policies on customers wearing keffiyehs or other political or religious items of clothing.' Jimmy's Falafel is just one of more than 90 venues operated by Merivale, which is owned by billionaire Justin Hemmes Authorities believe around 90,000 people arrived at the Harbour Bridge on August 3 to protest the on-going conflict in Gaza. Daily Mail contacted Merivale for further comment. A teenage girl celebrating her middle school graduation in Florida was tragically killed when the jet ski she was on lost control and slammed into a concrete dock. Rachel Aliza Nisanov, 13, of New York, was enjoying a surprise family trip to Fort Lauderdale this week to celebrate her eighth-grade graduation when she boarded a jet ski with her 16-year-old sister, Aviva, at the controls, according to NBC 4 News. But as they made their way back to shore, the Yamaha personal watercraft suddenly veered out of control and slammed into the dock - launching both girls into the air before they struck the concrete structure themselves. Rachel tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after the accident, while Aviva remains in critical but stable condition in the hospital. 'My father doesnt even know how to swim,' Yonah Nisanov, the girls' brother, told the outlet. 'He jumped in. My sisters were unconscious.' 'We don't understand why it happened, but we believe that this is what's meant to be,' he added. 'And God is gonna give us the strength to go forward and to strengthen ourselves.' The fatal accident occurred around 3.30pm Tuesday on the Intracoastal Waterway near the 2800 block of Northeast 24th Court, as Rachel and her older sister cruised together on a personal watercraft, with their parents riding nearby on a separate one. Florida law permits a 14-year-old to be on a personal watercraft as long as someone aged 16 or older is driving - which was the case with Aviva at the helm. Rachel Aliza Nisanov (pictured), 13, of New York, was celebrating her middle school graduation in Florida on Tuesday when the jet ski she was riding on with her older sister lost control and slammed into a concrete dock - tragically resulting in her death The personal watercraft, driven by Rachel's 16-year-old sister, Aviva, jumped the wake of a passing vessel and lost control before colliding with the dock - launching both girls into the air before they struck the concrete structure themselves But moments later, the girls lost control and collided violently with the dock - all while their parents watched in horror. The sisters father, Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov of Queens Bukharian Jewish community, didnt hesitate to jump into the water to get to his daughters faster - despite not knowing how to swim. 'Their life jackets were on. They were lying flat,' Yonah told NBC. 'My father jumped in and scraped up his hands, feet, his back, all over to save them, and he did what he could.' Nearby residents quickly sensed something was wrong as paramedics hurried to the dock. 'I saw one of the girls being taken in a stretcher,' resident Renee Beninate told WSVN News. 'I didnt know it was a young girl at the time, but my heart still broke,' she added. Both girls were rushed to Broward Health Medical Center with life-threatening injuries. Rachel tragically succumbed shortly after, while Aviva remained in critical condition as of Wednesday evening. Rachels body was swiftly flown back to New York, where she was honored with a funeral held Wednesday night at the Bukharian Jewish Community Center in Queens, according to the outlet. Rachel (right) tragically succumbed to her injuries shortly after the accident, while Aviva (left) remains in critical but stable condition in the hospital Rachel's brothers spoke at her funeral about how their 13-year-old sister (pictured) lived fully in the moment, all while tragically expressing their longing for just one more minute with their youngest sibling Emotions ran deep during the ceremony, as the girls father tearfully told grieving family and friends that their lives had been shattered after just a few moments on the water. 'You have no idea how everything turned upside down,' Shlomo said, according to WSVN. The teen's brothers spoke to the crowd about how their 13-year-old sister lived fully in the moment, all while tragically expressing their longing for just one more minute with their youngest sibling. 'She was just a kind person,' Yonah told NBC. 'A spiritual person. Kindhearted, always going the extra mile.' Around 9pm Wednesday evening, Rachels body was flown to Israel, where she is set to be laid to rest in Jerusalem on Thursday, as reported by the outlet. According to the preliminary report obtained by the outlet, the watercraft lost control and collided with a concrete dock while the teens were on 'a guided tour.' During the ride, the sisters 'jumped the wake of a passing vessel, lost control, and collided with a concrete dock,' according to the report. An investigation launched by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) remains ongoing. Jon Rosen, owner of Jet Ski Fort Lauderdale FL - whose company was not involved in Tuesdays crash - explained the standard safety measures for operating a personal watercraft, according to NBC. 'Proper training and education is everything,' Rosen told the outlet. 'One of the most important things about avoiding collisions is scanning around constantly, being in your own space, staying at least 100 feet away from boats, sea walls, docks,' he added. 'We're praying for them, sending our love to them during this difficult time and we're going to go do everything we can to prevent anything like that from ever happening again.' The Virginia Beach City Council is trying to ban shops along the famous boardwalk from displaying clothing with raunchy slogans to 'clean up' the family-friendly resort. The southeastern Virginia coastal city has long attracted families for its abundance of activities for all ages and stunning shores. But its three-mile oceanfront boardwalk has always been the star of the show for its games, restaurants and stores. And many of those stores have caught the eye of visitors for their attention-grabbing merchandise, which local officials say is wildly inappropriate. Some clothing and gift shops sell shorts with innuendos on the back, with some pairs reading 'all you can eat,' 'it ain't gonna spank itself' and 'roll your weed on it' with marijuana leaves. Other items include profanity, such as shirts reading 'I'm not always a d*ck' and 'f*ck around and find out.' Another top reads, 'I [heart] boobs.' 'The new generation, they like this so much,' Adam Desouki, the manager of Ocean 11 Clothing and Gift Shop, told The Virginian-Pilot. Desouki said vulgar apparel flies off the shelves and guests, especially young adults, cannot get enough of the merchandise. The Virginia Beach City Council is trying to ban shops along the famous boardwalk from displaying clothing with raunchy slogans to 'clean up' the family-friendly resort The southeastern Virginia coastal city has long attracted families for its abundance of activities for all ages and stunning shores But local officials believe these novelty clothing items have no place lining the boardwalk. 'Enough is enough,' Councilman Worth Remick, who represents a portion of the Oceanfront Boardwalk community, told The Virginian-Pilot. He said many constituents are less than thrilled with the non-PG sentiments printed on the clothes. 'This is a calm, gentle, nice way to say this is not good for our brand, for our city.' On Tuesday night, the City Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution to request Oceanfront stores remove 'indecent' items from their displays. But the resolution is voluntary, as criminal enforcement for obscenity is a difficult threshold to meet. So, the members of the council are asking for retailers to abide by the resolution for the community's greater good. The resolution also asked for the Atlantic Avenue Association and the Resort Advisory Commission to back their stance and try to 'inspire Oceanfront retailers to act in accordance with such environment.' The City Council and many visitors have found the clothing items offensive 'Were not telling store owners not to carry the shirts,' president of the Atlantic Avenue Association Deepak Nachnani told WHRO. 'Were just telling them to not put them in the store windows or on the mannequins at the front of the store.' Regardless, this 'peer pressure' approach being taken by the City Council is not sitting well with many of the boardwalk businesses. 'The owners need to make money in a certain period of time, and in the winter nobodys here,' Desouki said about Ocean 11. He believes that taking the controversial clothing off display would cause sales to plummet, as those shirts and shorts are a main attraction to the shop. But other businesses are willing to comply, as their management understands where the city is coming from on the matter. Avinash Basnet, owner of The T-Shirt Factory at the resort, told WHRO he would be willing to participate in this boardwalk clean-up, but it must be a unified effort. 'Im willing to commit to that, but it has to be for everybody,' he told the outlet. Desouki said vulgar apparel flies off the shelves and guests, especially young adults, cannot get enough of the merchandise 'Enough is enough,' Councilman Worth Remick (pictured), who represents a portion of the Oceanfront Boardwalk community, said Virginia Beach visitors have seemingly sided with the council, as the swear words and provocative language are far from family-friendly. 'Theyre just shoving this in kids faces,' Kecia Magnus, of New Jersey, told WHRO. Angie Whitlock, 68, of Georgia, was also not fond of the clothing. 'I think its awful. This is a family-friendly place, and as a community we need to protect our children. Maybe move that stuff to the back for the bachelors,' she told The Virginian-Pilot. Hamas has distanced itself from comments reportedly made by one of its co-founders praising Anthony Albanese's decision to recognise Palestinian statehood. Sheikh Hassan Yousef, a co-founder of Hamas and one of its most senior figures in the West Bank, purportedly told Nine Newspapers on Wednesday he welcomed the 'political courage' of the Labor government. He also claimed the decision to recognise Palestine vindicated Hamas's October 7 attack - the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust. But now a statement published on Hamas's English-language Telegram channel on Thursday has 'denie(d) 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'. 'Hamas affirms that Sheikh Hassan is held in poor detention conditions, cut off from the outside world, and has no means of communication with any local or international press outlets,' the statement added. This was echoed by Albanese, who told reporters he would 'not be a cheer squad for Hamas'. 'What that should be is a warning to the media to be very careful about the fact that Hamas will engage in propaganda, because what is happening is that the international community are united about isolating Hamas, about supporting a peaceful way forward,' Albanese added. He urged the media not to 'repeat Hamas's propaganda'. Sheikh Hassan Yousef (pictured), a co-founder of Hamas and one of the terror group's most senior figures in the West Bank, welcomed the 'political courage' of the Labor, claiming their decision to recognise Palestine vindicated Hamas' s October 7 attack - the worst massacre of the Jews since the holocaust Nine Newspapers, who broke the original statement said to be from Yousef, reported on Thursday that the comments had been provided by the former Hamas leader's 'office in Beitunia, a town near Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, which issues statements on his behalf'. Despite the apparent disconnect, Hamas still issued a statement applauding the Labor government's decision to recognise Palestine. 'Such a move reflects a growing global awareness of the necessity to end the injustice suffered by our people for decades,' Hamas media director Ismail Al-Thawabta told the ABC. 'We call on the Australian government to translate this recognition into concrete actions by exerting diplomatic pressure to end the Israeli occupation.' The Opposition has predictably seized on the decision to recognise Palestinian statehood, with Liberal deputy leader Sussan Ley accusing the Prime Minister of 'making a real mess of this.' 'On the same day, a listed terror organisation calls our prime minister a hero, while our closest ally, the US, says that these actions are going to make peace in the region less likely,' she told Nine on Thursday morning. 'So, it's really quite extraordinary, because remember, the Prime Minister used justification for this decision by saying Hamas would not be involved. 'And I saw the Treasurer yesterday saying, 'Oh, Hamas will have no role in a future Palestinian state.' Really? As if we can control these things?' In response, an Australian government spokesperson stuck to the line that their decision was designed to 'isolate Hamas' - before tacitly criticising the media for airing Hamas's position Shadow Foreign Minister Michaelia Cash said the decision was a gift to the proscribed terrorist group. 'All Australians should be appalled at the massive propaganda victory Mr Albanese has handed Hamas on a platter,' Cash said on Wednesday. The decision also provoked the ire of Israel, with the country's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar reposting a news article about Hamas praising Albanese. 'Hamas loves Anthony Albanese,' Sa'ar wrote, using a heart emoji for 'loves'. On Monday, the Prime Minister announced that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood at the United Nations next month, following similar commitments from other Western allies, including the UK, France, and Canada. He insisted the move would be 'totally opposed' by Hamas, and said the Palestinian Authority had assured him the group would play no role in any future Palestinian state. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Downing Street today for a surprise meeting with Sir Keir Starmer. The Prime Minister's meeting with the wartime leader comes a day before Donald Trump is set to hold face-to-face discussions with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. During a call with the US president and European allies on Wednesday, Sir Keir praised Mr Trump for his work to bring forward a 'viable' chance of an end to the war. But concerns have been raised over Mr Zelensky's exclusion from the meeting between the Mr Trump and Mr Putin, which is set to take place in Alaska on Friday. Speaking on Wednesday, Sir Keir said: 'This meeting on Friday that President Trump is attending is hugely important. 'As I've said personally to President Trump for the three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on, we haven't got anywhere near a 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 of that the president has put in.' Further sanctions could be imposed on Russia should the Kremlin fail to engage, and the UK is already working on its next package of measures targeting Moscow, Sir Keir said. Sir Keir Starmer will be joined by the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky at Downing Street on Thursday morning. The pair are pcitured during their latest meeting at No 10 in June On Friday, Donald Trump is also holding face-to-face discussions with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The pair are pictured together during a meeting in 2019 'We're ready to support this, including from the plans we've already drawn up to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased,' he told allies. 'It is important to remind colleagues that we do stand ready also to increase pressure on Russia, particularly the economy, with sanctions and wider measures as may be necessary.' Sir Keir and European leaders have repeatedly said discussions about Ukraine should not happen without it, amid concerns the country is being sidelined in negotiations about its own future. Asked if it was his decision to not invite Mr Zelensky to the meeting, Mr Trump said 'no just the opposite', before adding that a second meeting with the Ukrainian president could take place afterwards. '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,' he told reporters in Washington. He added: '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.' The US president has previously suggested a truce could involve some 'swapping' of land. It is believed one of the Russian leader's demands is for Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region which it still controls. 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 French President Emmanuel Macron (left) speaks by video conference with Zelensky (left, onscreen) and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (right) on Wednesday. The leaders also had a joint call with President Donald Trump But Mr Zelensky has already rejected any proposal that would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity, something that is forbidden by the country's constitution. A joint statement from the Coalition of the Willing, which is co-chaired by Sir Keir, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said 'international borders must not be changed by force'. It added: 'Sanctions and wider economic measures to put pressure on Russia's war economy should be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska.' The Coalition of the Willing is a European-led effort to send a peacekeeping force to Ukraine in the event of truce. Iconic film critic David Stratton has died peacefully, aged 85, in a hospital near his Blue Mountains home west of Sydney, his family announced on Thursday. Stratton's career as a film critic, writer, and educator in Australia spanned more than half a century until his retirement in December 2023, following a series of health problems. He was best known for appearing on television screens alongside co-host Margaret Pomeranz for almost three decades on various movie review shows. 'David's passion for film, commitment to Australian cinema, and generous spirit touched countless lives,' his family said. 'He was adored as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and admired friend. 'David's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support from friends, colleagues, and the public recently and across his lifetime.' They also had a special request for film buffs. David Stratton (pictured with long-time sidekick Margaret Pomeranz) has died aged 85 David Stratton's career as a film critic, writer, and educator in Australia spanned more than half a century. He is pictured in 2015 '[We] invite everyone to celebrate David's remarkable life and legacy by watching their favourite movie, or David's favourite movie of all time Singin' In the Rain,' the family added. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese led the outpouring of tributes. 'With dry humour and sharp insight, David Stratton shared his love of film with our country,' he tweeted. 'All of us who tuned in to 'At the Movies' respected him for his deep knowledge and for the gentle and generous way he passed it on. May he rest in peace.' Born in Wiltshire, England, Stratton arrived in Australia in 1963 under the 'Ten Pound Pom' migration scheme and quickly became involved with the local film industry. He directed the Sydney Film Festival for 17 years until 1983. It was revealed decades later that Stratton was under surveillance from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation at the time due to the festival screening films from the Soviet Union and his visit to the communist state in the late 1960s. In 1980, Stratton joined SBS as a film consultant, where he later starred on-screen co-hosting the long-running The Movie Show alongside Margaret Pomeranz until 2004. David Stratton and Margaret Pomeranz were household names, first on SBS and later the ABC The pair made the switch to the ABC, where they co-hosted At the Movies with Margaret and David until 2014 following disagreements with management at the national broadcaster. Only six films were given the highest ratings during their ten-year run at the ABC, including Brokeback Mountain, No Country For Old Men, Good Night, And Good Luck, Samson and Delilah, A Separation, and Amour. He received numerous awards for his contributions to Australian society and the film industry, including the Order of Australia and the Centenary Medal. Stratton's final film review was published in The Australian in early 2024. 'You obviously cant keep going for ever. I feel relaxed about it,' he told the Guardian at the time. 'Ive done the best I could over a number of years and I feel a sense of satisfaction from that. 'Ive already been advising some of the film-makers and distributors that I wont be reviewing any more and Im getting lovely messages back.' David Stratton (pictured on the red carpet at the 2017 Venice Film Festival) died peacefully in hospital near his Blue Mountains home Months later, Stratton admitted that he regretted giving Aussie film classic The Castle a low one-and-a-half stars. 'It was the first film made by a team that worked in television, and it looked to me like a telemovie, whereas Im very much into the visual side of cinema,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'I also found the humour a little bit patronising.' 'But I obviously completely misunderstood it, as I have watched it a few times since, and I now think its very funny.' Plans for a public memorial service are underway. Just months before a homeless man allegedly killed a pregnant woman and decapitated her partner, he turned up at a stranger's door with one shoe on and begged for help. Ross Judd, 34, surprised the resident at a home in Oakleigh, in Melbourne's south-east, when he asked the woman to care for his two dogs while he went into hospital last December. She said at the time that she thought the whole thing was 'very strange' and had contacted police before posting in a local Facebook group. Judd is accused of killing pregnant Athena Georgopoulos, 39, and decapitating her partner Andrew Gunn, 50, before placing his head on a spike at Gunn's home in Melbourne's Mount Waverley. However, her well-meaning post sparked a fierce online debate, with many defending Judd, saying he was deeply devoted to his dogs and needed their support. One woman said she even invited him in for a hot chocolate. 'His dogs are gentle and harmless,' she wrote. 'Is he still in the area? I will look after his dogs.' Others vowed to help in the lead up to Christmas by 'dropping supplies off for him', while a local dog groomer offered to wash and clip both German shepherds for free. Judd is accused of killing pregnant woman Athena Georgopoulos (left) and decapitating her partner Andrew Gunn (right) Ross Judd turned to strangers asking for help in the months before the alleged murder Police are investigating whether Judd and Mr Gunn may have been involved in a dispute over the ownership and sale of the dogs 'The gentleman's name is Ross and he has been living rough for about a year and a half,' said one woman, in a now-deleted post. 'He has schizophrenia which is currently trying to be managed, he has a prescription to fill when he gets his payment on Thursday. 'I asked if perhaps we could go together and get it tomorrow instead but he didn't want to. 'He is working with the Salvos trying to find accommodation which is obviously difficult with the two dogs.' She said Judd got the dogs when he had a job and a home, and urged locals to 'be kind and supportive'. She suggested her neighbours should introduce themselves to him 'and have a cuddle with the dogs'. 'It will make them all feel seen,' she added. The bodies of Ms Georgopoulos and Mr Gunn were discovered by a neighbour at the home on Adrienne Crescent just before 10pm on Monday. After Judd knocked on her door the unnamed woman shared her encounter One woman invited him in and volunteered to help with the dogs Judd was arrested in the early hours of Tuesday morning at nearby Westall train station with the same two German shepherds by his side Judd was arrested on in the early hours of Tuesday morning at Westall train station with his two German shepherds by his side. 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 the dogs, who waited patiently at the door. Police are investigating if Judd and Mr Gunn had 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 said he was often seen with his own beloved German shepherd, Dragon. 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 block where the alleged double murders took place. He told the Daily Mail: 'I'm doing ok, but I think Athena's family is doing a lot worse. 'Nobody needs to live knowing that this sort of thing has happened to their families.' Ms Georgopoulos worked as a customer service representative 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'. 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 lawyer also said Judd needed to see the custody nurse for 'follow-up medication and physical health issues'. Judd appeared at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, winking after he tripped as he walked to the dock 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. '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. Homicide Squad detectives have charged a man over the death of Samantha Mizzi in St Kilda more than 30 years ago. Colin McKane, 67, was arrested in Ararat, in Victoria's west, on Thursday. He has been charged with murder and two counts of rape and will appear at the Melbourne Magistrates Court this evening. The charges follow the alleged deadly attack on Ms Mizzi, 24, from Castlemaine, in country Victoria, on March 29, 1994. Her body was found by a passer-by in bushes at the rear of a property on St Kilda's Brighton Road about 11pm. She was taken to hospital but died the following morning. In announcing the breakthrough arrest, Homicide Squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said criminals should take note that Victoria Police never lets a case rest. 'Todays arrest and charges highlight that it doesnt matter how many years have passed, detectives remain committed to holding those who are involved in violent crimes to account,' he said. Samantha Mizzi was allegedly raped and murdered more than 30 years ago Police attend the brutal 1994 crime scene in St Kilda Ms Mizzi's alleged murder made national headlines at the time Victoria Police said on Thursday that they remained committed to solving the crime 'It also shows that progress can be made on cases, even after decades have passed, and that we can begin the process of providing families with long-needed answers. 'If there are people out there who have information about a crime such as this, no matter how many years have passed, I can assure you that its never too late to come forward.' At the time, it was believed Ms Mizzi was allegedly fatally beaten with an object and sexually assaulted before being stripped and left to die. She had travelled to the red light district from Castlemaine to earn money to support her children, who were at home being cared for by a friend. Witnesses said Ms Mizzi was seen speaking with a Caucasian man in his 40s prior to the attack whose identity remains a mystery. A New Zealand woman and her young son thought they were being kidnapped when ICE officers detained them as they returned to the US following a trip to Canada. Sarah Shaw and Isaac, six, have been held in United States immigration detention in South Texas for three weeks, despite them living in Washington state on valid visas for more than three years. Ms Shaw and her three children - Grace, 11, Seth, nine, and Isaac - briefly crossed the US border on July 24 to drive to Vancouver Airport in Canada - less than three hours away. The young mum dropped off her two eldest children for a flight back to NZ to see their grandparents - Vancouver was the closest airport with direct flights - before she turned around and headed back to America with Isaac. However, what should have been a standard crossing back home - where she had been living since 2021 after she moved to the US to marry her then-husband - turned to disaster. A close friend of Ms Shaw, navy veteran Victoria Besancon, said the pair were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and 'whisked away in an unmarked white van'. Ms Shaw's phone was confiscated and they were transported to Dilley Immigration Processing Centre - a 35-hour drive from their home in Everett. Ms Besancon is one of two people the mother has been permitted to speak to since her arrest. Sarah Shaw (pictured with her three children) and her youngest child, Isaac, have been held in US immigration detention since July 24 Ms Shaw and her son briefly crossed the border into Canada and her transported to a detention centre at the opposite end of the country, Dilley Immigration Processing Centre (pictured) Dilley is considered the largest immigration detention centre in the US with Ms Besancon claiming its conditions are 'comparable to prison'. 'She is not allowed to have her own clothes or her own underwear. There are five bunk beds in a room with multiple families in those rooms and they are locked inside from 8pm to 8am,' she said of Ms Shaw's detainment. The pair are some of the only English speakers in the facility, aside from staff, making them feel even more isolated. Ms Besancon said her friend described the ordeal as 'terrifying' and she 'thought she was being kidnapped' because 'they didn't really explain anything to her at first'. The Kiwi mum was living in the US on a 'combo card' visa 0 including a work permit granted through her employer and an I-360 visa, available to survivors of domestic violence committed by a citizen. She has spent the more than three years working as a youth counsellor in a juvenile detention facility in the state of Washington and was recently advised her work visa had been renewed but the approval for her I-360 was still pending. I-360 visas have been approved for all three of Ms Shaw's children, including Isaac. Ms Shaw requested humanitarian parole, an emergency pass into the US, but was told she wasn't eligible. 'Not only was she denied that right, but agents lied to her stating they had already requested it and she was denied. It was later confirmed that was a lie and no parole was filed or requested on her behalf,' Ms Besancon said. Ms Shaw and her son (pictured with Ms Shaw's other children) have been living in the US for over three years US Customs and Border Protection advises without both elements of Ms Shaw's 'combo card', she could face deportation as reentry is not guaranteed. Her detainment could also see her pending I-360 application be denied. Ms Shaw had an interview with US Citizen and Immigration services (USCIS) and hopes her I-360 form will be approved and expedited. 'She still has a valid and current work visa. She was never inadmissible to the United States and the Department of Homeland Security made the independent decision to detain her,' Ms Besancon said. The veteran warned tourists against visiting the US due to the current political climate. She claimed there's been an 'increasingly aggressive' attitude toward immigration since Donald Trump was inaugurated as President in January. Travel to the US dropped 3.1 per cent in July alone - the latest in a string of declines since the administration focused its attention on stricter travel and trade controls. Ms Shaw's father, Rod Price, told Radio New Zealand her eldest children are enjoying their time in Whangaparaoa, 42km north of Auckland. Travel to the US has drastically dropped since Donald Trump (pictured) was inaugurated in January and imposed tougher restrictions on travel and trade 'Ah, the young fella, it's just water off a duck's back, but my granddaughter is - she won't outright say it - but you know, you can tell by their actions and their concern and questions,' Mr Price said. Fortunately, the family's plight should be over in the coming days. 'There's a 90 per cent chance that she's going to be out Thursday, which is our Friday, 3pm. She's so confident that she's already booked a flight back to Seattle,' Mr Price said. If Ms Shaw and Isaac are not released on Thursday, they will be permitted to argue for their release in court on August 29. The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed it has been in contact with a New Zealander in US detention. Daily Mail has contacted ICE for further comment. Ms Besancon has created a GoFundMe to help cover Ms Shaw's legal fees and travel costs. The fundraiser received more than $53,000 USD ($81,000 AUD) in just seven days. A US man accused of faking his death and fleeing to Scotland to evade rape charges has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend. Nicholas Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, was found guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial in Utah in which his accuser and her parents took the stand. He will be sentenced in the case on October 20 and is set to stand trial in September for another rape charge in Utah County. Rossi was charged with rape in 2020 and a warrant for his arrest was issued later that year. But months later an online obituary claimed Rossi had died on February 29 2020 of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Despite his supposed death, Rossi was arrested in Scotland in December 2021 while being treated for Covid-19 after hospital staff in Glasgow recognised his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Rossi said he was the victim of mistaken identity, claiming to be an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. But, after a Scottish judge ruled that they were the same people, he was finally extradited to the US in January 2024. He appeared in court this week in a wheelchair, wearing a suit and tie and using an oxygen tank. During the trial he was told by Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill that first-degree felony rape carries a punishment in Utah of five years to life in prison. Mr Gill said: 'We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. 'We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable.' Fugitive Nicholas Rossi (pictured), who was accused of faking his death and fleeing to Scotland to evade rape charges, has been found guilty of sexually assaulting an ex-girlfriend Rossi (pictured), also known as Nicholas Alahverdian and his alleged alias Arthur Knight, was extradited from Scotland following a lengthy process in early 2022 Utah authorities began searching for Rossi when he was identified through a decade-old DNA rape kit in 2018. He was among thousands of rape suspects identified and later charged when the state made a push to clear its rape kit backlog. Investigators say they identified at least a dozen aliases Rossi used over the years to evade capture. Throughout his trial, prosecutors painted a picture of an intelligent man who used his charm to take advantage of a vulnerable young woman. She was living with her parents and recovering from a traumatic brain injury when she responded to a personal ad Rossi posted on Craigslist. They began dating and were engaged within about two weeks. On Monday, the woman described being asked to pay for their dates, cover Rossi's car repairs, lend him 1,000 dollars so he wouldn't be evicted from his apartment and take on debt to buy their engagement rings. He grew hostile soon after their engagement and raped her in his bedroom one night after she drove him home, she testified. The woman said dismissive comments from her parents convinced her not to go to the police at the time. She came forward a decade later after she saw him in the news and learned he was accused of another rape from the same year. Rossi departs Edinburgh Sheriff Court after his extradition hearing on July 12, 2023 Rossi's lawyers sought to convince the jury that his accuser built up years of resentment after he made her foot the bill for everything in their month-long relationship. They argued she accused him of rape to get back at him years later, when he was getting media attention. Lawyers for Rossi did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment after the verdict. Rossi's accuser in the Utah County case did, however, go to the police at the time. She gave evidence on Tuesday about her own experiences with Rossi, though he will not stand trial for that rape charge until next month. Rossi is accused of attacking the second woman, another former girlfriend, at his apartment in Orem in September 2008 after she came to collect money she said he stole from her to buy a computer. When police initially interviewed Rossi, he claimed she had raped him and threatened to have him killed. Rossi grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and had returned there before allegedly faking his death. He was previously wanted in the state for failing to register as a sex offender. The FBI has said he also faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. Russia is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile on the eve of Vladimir Putin's summit with Donald Trump and after the US president warned him of 'severe consequences' if the war continues. Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya, a remote archipelago in the Barents Sea. The pictures, taken in recent weeks by commercial satellite firm Planet Labs, reveal a surge in personnel, equipment, ships and aircraft linked to earlier tests of the 9M730 Burevestnik, known to NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. A Western security source has also verified that Russia is preparing a Burevestnik launch, supporting the findings by Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth, of the CNA research and analysis organisation. Lewis told Reuters that it could happen this week, which could potentially overshadow the planned Putin-Trump summit in Alaska. Putin has previously described the Burevestnik as 'invincible' to current and future missile defences, claiming it has almost unlimited range. The development of the missiles has become a prime focus for Putin, especially after Trump revealed what he called the US Golden Dome missile in January, according to experts. However, some specialists are sceptical that it can truly evade defence systems or give Russia extra capabilities it does not already possess. There are also concerns that the missile could release dangerous radiation along its route. Russia is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile on the eve of Vladimir Putin's summit with Donald Trump Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya The revelation comes after the US president warned Putin of 'severe consequences' if the war continues Putin and Trump are set to meet in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine Researchers believe the test would have been scheduled long before the summit was announced. But they say Putin could have slowed or halted visible preparations to demonstrate that he was open to ending the war in Ukraine and restarting arms control talks with Washington. The Burevestnik does not have a stellar track record, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, with just two partial successes in 13 known tests. Lewis and Eveleth say Planet Labs images taken since late July show stacks of shipping containers, more equipment and more personnel arriving at the site. Lewis said two aircraft equipped to collect test data have been parked at Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July, both carrying saucer-shaped radar domes. He also noted the presence of at least five ships linked to past tests, and said ship-tracking site VesselFinder.com showed a sixth vessel, the Teriberka cargo ship, heading towards Novaya Zemlya this week. Reuters confirmed the vessel's course but could not independently verify the rest of the findings. The researchers say they began monitoring Pankovo in July and increased scrutiny after Russia issued a maritime warning on August 6 for the period between August 9 and 12. Lewis said two aircraft equipped to collect test data have been parked at Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July, both carrying saucer-shaped radar domes The movement of equipment since mid July has led experts to believe that Putin test the missiles this week Some experts have said Putin could have postponed the tests if he wanted to Notices on the US Federal Aviation Administration's system suggested a possible launch window from August 9 to 22. Norway's military told Reuters the Barents Sea is a 'prime location for Russian missile tests' and that warnings pointed to 'preparations for test activities', though it would not confirm the type of weapon. In late July, Eveleth noticed a large shelter protecting the launcher being moved back and forth, which he called 'very clear evidence' of an upcoming launch. Lewis provided August 7 images showing the launcher cover, stacks of containers, a crane and a helicopter. 'It's full steam ahead,' he said. The revelation comes after Trump warned 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. 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 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'. 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 the Ukrainian president. It is hoped that this second summit would take place in a neutral European country. Yesterday, 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. Ukrainian drones hit Rosneft oil depot in Sochi, sparking massive fire and explosions near airport on August 3, 2025 JD Vance yesterday 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' Your browser does not support iframes. 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. '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'. 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 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. 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.' A student has revealed that she nearly died after eating a broccoli sandwich bought at a food truck whose products have allegedly left at least two dead and more than a dozen in hospital. Gaia Vitiello, a 24-year-old student at the Federico II University of Naples, was a customer at a food truck in the town of Diamante, in Calabria. The food truck's products allegedly gave several people botulism, which killed Tamara DAcunto, 45, and Luigi Di Sarno, 52. After eating a sandwich with broccoli in it at the end of a night out, she was left suffering botulism and needing to be kept in intensive care at a nearby hospital. The languages student said she and her friends all got the same sandwich at 4.30am on August 5, with only one difference: 'My friends only had mayonnaise, sausage, and chips. I added broccoli. It was the first time I'd ever done that'. She told local media that just one hour later, she was suffering: 'I had diarrhea. I thought it was indigestion. The next day, the symptoms worsened. I couldn't swallow and my legs were shaking.' After Gaia's sister took her a nearby clinic, which the student said she didn't want to do, she was immediately transferred to Annunziata Hospital in Cosenza. 'If my sister Alessia hadn't taken me to the hospital by force, I wouldn't be here today', Gaia admitted. Thankfully, she was given the proper medicine and was discharged. She said: 'I consider myself lucky.' Gaia Vitiello, a 24-year-old student at the Federico II University of Naples, was hospitalised by the broccoli sandwich Luigi Di Sarno (pictured) is believed to be the first person to have died from the botulism outbreak Tamara DAcunto, 45, (pictured) sadly also died after eating the dodgy sandwich Multiple other people were hospitalised with similar symptoms after eating the same meal - a broccoli and sausage sandwich [FILE PHOTO] Last week, 52-year-old artist Luigi Di Sarno died after eating the panini from the food truck in the town of Diamante, in Calabria. And yesterday, Tamara DAcunto, 45, 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. 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. 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. So far, the investigation led by local prosecutors has revealed that the food truck was parked in the hot sun all day, which 'could have favoured the proliferation of botulinum toxins in perishable products, especially if not properly stored.' Local health authorities added that they were working with national health authorities to ensure that there was a significant, readily-available reserve of antitoxins for Annunziata Hospital in Cosenza to be able to treat upcoming cases. An aircraft was also flown to the San Camillo Hospital in Rome, where additional reserves of the antivenom are stored, and brought back to Calabria to fight cases. Di Sarno, an artist and musician originally from Cercola, in the province of Naples, was on holiday in Calabria with his family After he and his family ate the sandwich on the Tyrrhenian coast of Cosenza, Di Sarno began driving back home to Naples Authorities have launched an investigation into the outbreak and ordered a nationwide recall of the commercially produced panini after the death of two adults Tamara DAcunto has also died after eating the food and more than a dozen people have been hospitalised Postmortem examinations are being conducted this week as part of the investigation 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. Ever since its release in 1995, Braveheart has been a whipping boy for scholars. All of its historical inaccuracies - ranging from Mel Gibson's blue painted face to its garbled chronology - have been gleefully pointed out. And further fuel was poured on the fire this week by one of the film's stars, Brian Cox, who said the Oscar-winning production was 'b******s'. Speaking at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, Cox added that the film is a 'f***ing lie, the whole thing', and added he only agreed to portray Wallace's fictional uncle Argyle, after Gibson pleaded with him. But the tale of Scotland's push for 'freeeeeeedom!' against the tyrannical English did get a few things right. Ever since its release in 1995, Braveheart has been a whipping boy for scholars. All of its historical inaccuracies - ranging from Mel Gibson 's blue painted face to its garbled chronology - have been gleefully pointed out Brian Cox, who played William Wallace's fictional uncle Argyle in Braveheart, said this week the film was 'b******s' The Scots were defeated at the Battle of Falkirk One of the many fighting scenes in the film depicts 1298 Battle of Falkirk, which ended with Scottish defeat. Troops led by Wallace fought valiantly but ultimately succumbed to the strength of the English army headed by King Edward I. The version of the battle in Braveheart accurately depicts the desertion of the Scottish cavalry as defeat loomed. Around 2,000 men on each side were killed, though the English force triumphed in part because of its overwhelming numerical superiority. One of the many fighting scenes in the film depicts 1298 Battle of Falkirk, which ended with Scottish defeat Troops led by Wallace fought valiantly but ultimately succumbed to the strength of the English army headed by King Edward I William Wallace was betrayed In Braveheart, Wallace is betrayed by noblemen Mornay and Lochlan in the lead-up to the Battle of Falkirk. Gibson's character goes on to kill the pair as revenge for their treachery. Although Mornay and Lochlan were Hollywood inventions, Wallace really was betrayed. The treachery of Scottish nobleman John Mnteith - who was not depicted in Braveheart - led to his capture near Glasgow in 1305. A depiction of William Wallace, who remains a Scottish hero William Wallace was gruesomely executed One of the final scenes in Braveheart depicts Wallace's gruesome execution. The Scot was hanged, drawn and quartered at Smithfield in London. The killing method involved hanging someone until they were nearly dead and then cutting off their genitals and disembowelling them while they were still alive. Gibson opted not to depict Wallace's death scene in graphic detail, and instead focused on his face as he was tortured and then cried out his message of defiance. Sticklers will have pointed out that Wallace would have been in no fit state to shout out anything after being subjected to such horrendous disfigurement. One of the final scenes in Braveheart depicts Wallace's gruesome execution A depiction of the moments leading up to Wallace's execution at Smithfield in London The English were defeated at Bannockburn The final scenes of Gibson's film depict the Scottish victory at the Battle of Bannockburn. The clash, which took place in June 1314, saw Robert the Bruce's Scots defeat English troops led by Edward II. Robert's victory at Bannockburn put paid to Edward's plans to conquer Scotland. In Braveheart, the ramshackle Scots charge at their enemies as the film ends by showing Wallace's sword - having been thrown by Argyle - sticking out of the ground and wavering in the wind. Angus McFadyen as Robert the Bruce, addressing his troops before the Battle of Bannockburn The final scenes of Gibson's film depict the Scottish victory at the Battle of Bannockburn A depiction of the Battle of Bannockburn, in which Robert Bruce's forces triumphed This 15th century illustration of the Battle of Bannockburn is the earliest-known depiction of the clash Robert the Bruce did become King of Scotland Braveheart's depiction of Robert the Bruce leading his men into battle at Bannockburn comes after he has been crowned as Scotland's king. Robert became King of the Scots at Scone, near Perth, in 1306. After the formal inauguration, he agreed to be crowned for a second time by the Isabella MacDuff, the Countess of Buchan. That moment is immortalised in a tableau on display at Edinburgh Castle. Robert reigned until his death in 1329, when he was succeeded by his son, King David II. The tableau at Edinburgh Castle depicting Isabella MacDuff crowning Robert the Bruce King of the Scots A 75-year-old church and charity treasurer who defrauded both organisations out of 285,000 has been jailed for four years. Terence Capstick abused his trusted volunteer role at Winslow Parish Church and the Rogers Free Educational Trust in Buckinghamshire to siphon off huge sums over nearly five years. Between January 2019 and October 2023, the pensioner stole 163,600 from the church's account and 122,052 from the trust. He was arrested by Thames Valley Police on March 19 and charged on April 23. He appeared before High Wycombe Magistrates' Court, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of fraud by abuse of position Last week, 'dishonest and selfish' Capstick, of Winslow, was jailed to four years at Aylesbury Crown Court. Detective Constable Ross Acland of the Central Fraud Unit said: 'This is the correct result in this case and an overwhelming amount of evidence gathered by officers has assisted us in reaching this point. Terence Capstick abused his trusted volunteer role in the church and trust to siphon off huge sums over nearly five years He was the treasurer at Winslow Parish Church in Buckinghamshire 'Capstick systematically abused the position of trust he was placed in through greed and solely for personal gain. '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. Central Fraud Unit Detective Inspector Duncan Wynn said: 'I am very pleased to see the successful outcome of this case and the substantial prison sentence passed on Capstick. 'This was a dishonest and selfish act which has had a significant financial and emotional effect on the community. 'His guilty plea is a testament to the thorough investigation by my Buckinghamshire Fraud Team. 'I hope this lengthy custodial sentence illustrates the seriousness of fraud cases, which are often seen as a 'victimless crime' when this is clearly not the case. 'Thames Valley Police will continue to pursue those committing fraud within our communities and work tirelessly to ensure justice for victims.' The Bishop of Buckingham, the Rt Revd Canon 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. 'We pray for the PCC, the parish, the community around the church, and that the new team charged with managing our financial affairs will continue to bring their expertise to our church. 'We also pray for rehabilitation and healing for the former treasurer who was sentenced on 6 August.' Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street this morning ahead of US President Donald Trump's crunch summit with Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister and Mr Zelensky met for breakfast in No10 as both leaders brace themselves for the outcome of the US President's talks with the Russian leader. The Ukrainian President and Sir Keir hugged on his arrival in Westminster, before they sat down for talks in the Downing Street garden. Mr Zelensky left more than an hour later and the PM walked Ukraine's war-time leader to his car. There are concerns in Kyiv, London and other European capitals that Mr Trump might attempt to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia as part of a ceasefire deal. Those fears were compounded by reports that Russia and the US have discussed a model for ending the war in Ukraine that mirrors Israel's occupation of the West Bank. Mr Trump has suggested a peace deal could include 'land-swapping', although he also vowed to 'try to get back' some of Ukraine's 'oceanfront property' from Russia. Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky's talks on Thursday followed an emergency virtual summit between European leaders and the US President yesterday. 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 welcomed Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street this morning ahead of US President Donald Trump's crunch summit with Vladimir Putin The Prime Minister and Mr Zelensky met in No10 as both leaders brace themselves for the outcome of the US President's talks with the Russian leader Sir Keir and the Ukrainian President sat down for talks in the Downing Street garden on Thursday morning Following Thursday's meeting between Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky, a Downing Street spokesperson said: 'They had a private breakfast, where they discussed yesterday's meetings. 'They agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. 'They then 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. 'They agreed to stay in close touch in the coming days.' Sir Keir has praised the US President for his work to bring forward a 'viable' chance of an end to the war. But the PM has also warned that 'borders must not be changed by force' as he pledged his 'unwavering' support for Ukraine. Both Sir Keir and Mr Trump threatened further sanctions on Russia ahead of Mr Putin's visit to Alaska. The PM said the UK is ready 'to increase pressure on Russia', while the US President said Mr Putin would face 'severe consequences' if he fails to agree to peace. Mr Trump, speaking on Wednesday, added he is hopeful that his talks with the Russian leader could lead to a second trilateral summit involving Mr Zelensky. But he cautioned: '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.' According to The Times, Russia and the US have discussed a West Bank-style settlement for ending the war in Ukraine in recent talks. The idea was raised weeks ago in discussions between Steve Witkoff, Mr Trump's peace envoy, and his Russian counterparts, the newspaper reported. Such a plan would see Russia have military and economic control of occupied Ukraine under its own governing body, imitating Israel's de facto rule of Palestinian territory seized from Jordan in 1967. The PM has warned that 'borders must not be changed by force' as he pledged his 'unwavering' support for Ukraine The PM and some of his European counterparts joined a call on Wednesday with the US President and Mr Zelensky There are concerns in Kyiv, London and other European capitals that Mr Trump might attempt to cede Ukrainian territory to Russia as part of a ceasefire deal Mr Zelensky revealed how he told Mr Trump that Mr Putin is 'bluffing' about his desire to end the war Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Trump has previously suggested a truce could involve some 'swapping' of land. It is believed one of Mr Putin's demands is for Ukraine to cede parts of the Donbas region which it still controls. But Mr Zelensky has already rejected any proposal that would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity, something that is forbidden by the country's constitution. A joint statement from Ukrainian allies - known as the 'coalition of the willing' and co-chaired by Sir Keir, France's Emmanuel Macron and Germany's Friedrich Merz - said 'international borders must not be changed by force'. It added: 'Sanctions and wider economic measures to put pressure on Russia's war economy should be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska.' The coalition of the willing is a European-led effort to send a peacekeeping force to Ukraine in the event of truce. Mr Trump was reported to have used Wednesday's call to tell European leaders that he is willing to contribute security guarantees for Ukraine with some conditions. The US President is said to have warned he would only make such a commitment if the effort is not part of NATO. 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.' This is the shocking moment a Boeing 747 freighter's wing struck the runway during landing in Taipei, creating sparks that lit up the tarmac as the plane made contact. The United Parcel Service (UPS) Express cargo flight 5X61 departed from Hong Kong-Chek Lap Kok International Airport (HKG) at 09:50 UTC, bound for TaipeiTaiwan Taoyuan International Airport on August 13. Dramatic footage shows the aircraft coming down to land at an incredibly awkward angle. As it approached the runway, it was wobbling so much that upon touching down, with its right wing lowered enough for the outboard engine to scrape along the runway. This immediately send out a dramatic burst of sparks as the plane continued to wobble down the runway. The jumbo jet, registered N613UP, reportedly arrived during a period of gusty winds brought by Typhoon Podul. Due to the prevailing weather conditions, the plane conducted three approaches to runway 05L before successfully landing. An incident report from the Aviation Safety Network stated: 'UPS flight 5X61, a Boeing 747-8F, suffered an engine pod strike during a night-time landing on runway 05L at Taipei-Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Dramatic footage shows the aircraft coming down to land at an incredibly awkward angle As it approached the runway, it was wobbling so much that upon touching down, with its right wing lowered enough for the outboard engine to scrape along the runway This immediately send out a dramatic burst of sparks as the plane continued to wobble down the runway The jumbo jet, registered N613UP, reportedly arrived during a period of gusty winds brought by Typhoon Podul 'At the time of arrival, strong gusting winds with windshear associated with Typhoon Podul were reported at TPE. At 11:20 UTC, the flight aborted the approach to runway 05L and executed a go-around. The aircraft was positioned for another approach, which was also aborted. 'At 12:08 UTC, the aircraft landed after the third approach and taxied to the apron. Photos after the incident show a cowling had separated from the engine.' The aircraft completed its rollout without further incident and taxied to the apron. Officials confirmed that Engine #4 sustained damage to its nacelle. No injuries were reported. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Typhoon Podul swept across southern Taiwan, bringing wind speeds of up to 191 kph (118 mph). The system triggered widespread closures across the island and led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights. The Central Weather Administration reported that Podul made landfall in the southeastern city of Taitung at around 1 pm local time. The typhoon then moved across Taiwan's southern tip before entering the Taiwan Strait around three hours later. Authorities said that more than 8,000 residents were evacuated as a safety measure. One person remains missing, and at least 112 injuries have been reported. The A-level gender gap has reversed as boys outperformed girls in top grades for the first time in seven years. The proportion of boys awarded A or A* this year was 28.4 per cent, 0.2 percentage points higher than the equivalent figure for girls at 28.2 per cent. Last year, girls across England, Wales and Northern Ireland led boys by 0.4 percentage points - with figures of 28 per cent for girls and 27.7 per cent for boys. Boys have also extended their lead over girls in the highest grade, A*. The proportion of boys awarded the top grade this year was 9.9 per cent, 0.8 points higher than girls. Male students have traditionally led girls, scoring more A* grades than their female classmates every year between 2012 and 2019. But girls overtook boys between 2020 and 2022 - the years of the Covid-19 pandemic when results were based on teacher assessments instead of exams. However, following a return to normal exams, boys reclaimed a 0.3-point lead in 2023. Last year, boys led girls by 0.4 percentage points (9.5 per cent for boys, 9.1 per cent for girls). Figures released today also show that maths has held firm as the nation's favourite subject for the 12th year in a row, with 112,138 entries, up 4.4 per cent from 107,427 last year. Your browser does not support iframes. The A-level gender gap has reversed as boys outperformed girls in top grades for the first time in seven years Pupils are celebrating a bumper year for A-level results after scoring record top grades outside of the pandemic years (pictured: pupils at Solihull School) Your browser does not support iframes. But there is still a clear gender divide here, with boys significantly more likely to choose the subject. There were 70,255 boys' entries for maths compared to 41,883 for girls. Psychology remains the second most popular subject with 75,943 entries, but it is down 3.3 per cent from 78,556 in 2024. Biology was once again the third most popular subject, with 71,400 entries, a fall of 4 per cent from 74,367. Meanwhile business studies has entered the top five most popular subjects for the first time, ranking in fifth place and replacing history which has dropped to seventh. Physics has also surged in popularity, jumping from ninth place to sixth after attracting an extra 1,843 students. Chris McNamara, founder and CEO of Pathway CTM, an early careers support service, told the Daily Mail: 'Boys have made a return to the top of the table when it comes to A-level grades, taking the lead over girls for the first time since 2018. 'The shift back towards more traditional, end-point assessment - with a greater focus on exams over coursework - has likely played a part in this, as this style often better suits boys. 'Almost half of A-level entries are now in STEM subjects, with maths remaining a firm favourite among male students. In maths, 40 per cent of grades were at A or above, compared to just 20 per cent in creative subjects like music, which tend to have higher female uptake.' It comes as pupils on a whole are celebrating a bumper year for A-level results after scoring record top grades outside of the pandemic years. This morning, 28.3 per cent of pupils got A/A* this year, compared with 27.8 per cent last year, and 25.4 per cent in 2019. Outside of the Covid years of 2020-2022, when grades were vastly inflated due to teacher assessment, this is the highest proportion on record. In addition, 9.4 per cent of entries got A* grades this year almost 1 in 10 up from 9.3 per cent last year and 7.7 per cent in 2019 making this also a non-pandemic record. The top results meant a record 439,180 were accepted onto degree courses, up 3.1 per cent on the same point last year. Pupils receive their results at the Latimers Arts College, Barton Seagrave, Northamptonshire Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Ofqual said this morning results are 'stable' and suggested any changes could be due to the fact that this year students are cleverer. This is due to them being the first cohort since the pandemic to have GCSE grading returned to normal so harder putting less able students off taking A-levels. And the overall pass rate the proportion of entries graded A* to E has also risen to 97.5 per cent this year, which is up on last year (97.2 per cent) and the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (97.6 per cent). Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator of Ofqual, England's exams regulator, said the standard of work required to achieve grades has 'held constant' since 2023. He said any changes were because a 'smaller, smarter cohort' of students had sat their A-level exams this year compared to previous years. Sir Ian said: 'Students this year have got the grades they deserve, and their grade will hold its value over time because it represents a stable standard of achievement.' The Covid-19 pandemic led to an increase in top grades in 2020 and 2021, with results based on teacher assessments instead of exams. In 2022, grading was brought half way back to normal. This cohort of school and college leavers received their GCSE results in 2023, the first year that grading was returned to pre-pandemic levels in England. This morning, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has said there has been a 'steadying of the ship' after the disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking to BBC Breakfast, she said: 'What we've seen is a steadying of the ship, both this year and last following some of the disruption that we saw during the pandemic. 'These are young people who have not had disruption in recent times, but have had the full normal assessment process. 'These are also young people who would have been the first to sit GCSEs under normal circumstances. So they've gone through the full regular GCSE cycle that you would have expected before the pandemic. 'So, this is a normal year, the kind of year that we would have seen before the pandemic hit.' Mrs Phillipson also addressed the issue of 'yawning inequalities in exam achievement. Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today Programme, she said: 'Alongside the post-16 white paper that we'll be publishing later on this year, I will also bring a big focus through our schools white paper on how we tackle these thorny generational challenges where white working-class kids across our country don't get the start that they deserve. 'Now the school system is an important part of how we respond to that, but I would say alongside it so much of this develops and opens up in the early years. 'The attainment gap that we see between less well-off students and better-off students opens up before the age of five. 'It's why early years has been such a priority, because if we get that right then we set up children to succeed, but we will take more action in the school system to ensure that those gaps that we see, those yawning inequalities, are addressed. 'It's something the last government failed to tackle. It is something this Government will grasp.' Rights activists in The Gambia are calling for justice after a one-month-old baby's death was linked to female genital mutilation, a widely practised but illegal procedure up for review before the country's Supreme Court. The Gambia has one of the highest rates of FGM in the world, with 73 percent of women and girls aged 15 to 49 having undergone the procedure, according to 2024 figures from UNICEF. The baby girl was pronounced dead upon arrival at a hospital in the capital Banjul after being 'allegedly subjected to circumcision' and developing severe bleeding, The Gambia Police Force said in a statement Sunday. The death has sparked outrage among women's rights defenders working to combat the deeply rooted cultural and religious practice that they say is a harmful violation against women and girls. 'FGM is not a cultural tradition to be defended - it is a form of gender-based violence that can kill,' Santana Simiyu, a human rights lawyer with rights group Equality Now, said in a statement sent to AFP Tuesday. Two women allegedly involved in the case are in custody, police said, as an investigation is carried out in the western town of Wellingara, where the incident occurred. Researchers at Britain's University of Birmingham estimated in a study published in 2023 that approximately 44,320 girls and young women die each year due to FGM in the countries where it is practised. Former Gambian dictator Yahya Jammeh, now in exile, outlawed FGM in 2015, branding it outdated and not a requirement of Islam. Anti Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) protesters hold placards outside the National Assembly in Banjul on march 18, 2024 Researchers at Britain's University of Birmingham estimated in a study published in 2023 that approximately 44,320 girls and young women die each year due to FGM in the countries where it is practised Parliament later that year adopted the first law specifically banning the practice, which is now punishable by up to three years in prison but is rarely enforced. In July 2024, lawmakers revisited the matter, upholding the 2015 law despite pressure from religious traditionalists. But the ban was immediately challenged before the Gambian Supreme Court, where the petition remains pending. 'If the Gambia's Supreme Court rules that the country's law prohibiting FGM is unconstitutional, it would have a hugely detrimental impact on the well-being of women and girls, leaving them without legal protections,' Simiyu said. FGM involves the partial or total removal of the female external genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs. It can lead to serious health problems including infections, bleeding, infertility and complications in childbirth. A man aged 81 has become Britain's oldest drug driver after he was caught driving home from his own birthday party whilst under the influence of cocaine. Arthur Ball, who needs hearing aids, uses two walking sticks, and has had a carer for 15 years, tested three times the limit when officers stopped his Motability car. When quizzed, the pensioner said he had not been drinking alcohol, never took drugs and claimed a fellow guest must have slipped a wrap of cocaine into his lemonade during the bash. But bizarrely his taxpayer-funded Toyota Yaris had a police marker on it amid claims the vehicle was being used by a drug dealer. At Warrington magistrates court, Ball pleaded guilty to drug driving and was fined 120 and was banned from the roads for 12 months. It is thought his carer will now drive the Toyota car on his behalf. The court heard Ball was pulled over just after midnight in his home town of Warrington, Cheshire on June 2 - six days after his birthday. Nigel Jones, prosecuting, said: 'On the day in question police had observed the vehicle and subsequently stopped it. Arthur Ball, 81, arriving at court where he admitted driving whilst under the influence of cocaine but claimed someone spiked his lemonade drink at his birthday party days earlier Arthur Ball (pictured) was pulled over while driving his taxpayer-funded Motability Toyota Yaris 'The defendant was asked to provide a roadside breath test and a sample for a drugwipe. 'The roadside breath test was zero but the result for the drug test, resulted in him being arrested. 'The blood test figures are identified in the charge. There are no aggravating features. Blood tests showed Ball had 162 micrograms of benzoylecgonine (BZE) per litre of blood in his system. BZE is a breakdown product of cocaine and the legal limit is 50 mg. His lawyer Mark Lever said in mitigation: 'He had been out for his birthday, a late birthday celebration. 'He had not been drinking. 'He believed that what he had drunk had been contaminated by cocaine. He does not use cocaine. 'He cannot bring evidence of that so he accepts that he has committed the offence. 'He was pulled up by the police. 'Strangely, police have a marker on his car for a drug dealer. 'He is not a drug dealer. How it got there goodness knows. 'His driving was not impaired. He has not driven in an erratic manner. 'He would like to drive again but he accepts he is going to find it difficult over the next 12 months.' Ball was also ordered to pay costs of 85 and a surcharge of 48. Sentencing Ball, JP Andrew Pope said: 'Anybody found guilty or who pleads guilty to driving when they have got drugs in their system all get disqualified. 'It's the law.' Figures show that in 2023, 124 people died in crashes involving a drug-impaired driver. DVLA data suggests drivers in their late twenties are the worst offenders, with 25 being the most common age of disqualification for drug-driving. Bu in one year alone 78 drivers over 60 years old were also prosecuted for failing drugs tests, with the eldest driver banned being a 74-year-old woman. A chemical explosion at a major London hospital sparked a mass evacuation this morning after an engineer reportedly 'accidentally mixed up chlorine and sulphuric acid' in the basement. Firefighters rushed to Guy's Hospital in central London after the London Fire Brigade received a call at 8.49am. Some 150 people were evacuated from the basement and ground floor levels by firefighters and hospital staff. A police officer at the scene said there was a 'chemical leak in the basement' that was 'potentially quite dangerous', but said it has 'just reopened now'. The cop said an 'engineer accidentally mixed chlorine with sulphuric acid and it totally exploded'. Another officer said it has 'all been cleared' and is 'absolutely no risk to anybody'. One member of staff was injured as a result of a chemical reaction, and several people who came to the aid of the person have been treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas. The London Ambulance Service treated nine people at the scene, five were discharged and four were taken to hospital. Social media footage shows a man on crutches and an elderly woman being guided out of the building, while images show crowds of people on Stainer Street outside the hospital. Patients, medical staff and visitors seen outside Guy's Hospital in central London on Stainer Street near London Bridge station Firefighters rushed to Guy's Hospital this morning after the London Fire Brigade received a call at 8.49am Hospital workers could be seen standing around talking next to an ambulance as firefighters headed inside to tackle the issue. London Fire Brigade (LFB) crews from Whitechapel, Dowgate, Euston and surrounding fire stations were sent to the scene. Firefighters worked to ventilate the building with two fire engines, two Fire Rescue Units, a Command Unit and specialist hazardous materials officers in attendance. The LFB said the incident was over for firefighters as of 11.09am. The main entrance has been cordoned off with yellow tape with emergency service workers huddled around an ambulance. An eyewitness said she saw someone who appeared to be 'covered with wet towels/blankets'. She also said she saw 'several' fire engines and ambulances 'parked outside the Shard exit of London Bridge Station' at about 9.45am. Road maps show a road closure currently in place on Weston Street which runs parallel to the hospital. The London Fire Brigade was first called about the incident at 8.49am, with crews from Whitechapel, Dowgate, Euston and surrounding fire stations sent to the scene A statement on the LFB website said: 'Firefighters responded to reports of a chemical incident at Guy's Hospital. 'Two fire engines, two Fire Rescue Units, a Command Unit and specialist hazardous materials officers attended the scene. 'Crews carried out operations to ventilate the building and supported the precautionary evacuation of the basement and ground floor levels of the hospital. 'The Brigade was first called about the incident at 08.49, with crews from Whitechapel, Dowgate, Euston and surrounding fire stations sent to the scene. 'The incident was over for firefighters by 11.09.' A spokesperson for the LFB said: 'Firefighters responded to reports of a chemical incident at Guys Hospital, SE1, today. 'The incident is believed to have been caused by the mixing of chemicals inside a plant room which produced a chlorine gas. 'One person was injured as a result of a chemical reaction. Several people, who came to the aid of the person, have been treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas. 'Firefighters have carried out a sweep of the area to check for no elevated readings of chlorine gas. The building has also been ventilated. 'Crews also supported with the precautionary evacuation of the basement and ground floors of the building.' A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said: 'We were called at 8.49am today to reports of an incident at Guys Hospital, SE1. 'We sent resources to the scene, including ambulance crews, an incident response officer, a paramedic in a fast response car, an emergency planning officer and paramedics from our hazardous area response team. 'We treated nine people at the scene. We took four patients to hospital and discharged the other five patients at the scene.' A spokesperson for Guys and St Thomas NHS Trust said: 'The London Fire Brigade attended a chemical incident in a non-patient area of Guys Hospital today. 'One staff member was injured and several people, who came to the aid of the person, were treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas. 'The site has now reopened and people should attend their appointments unless they are contacted by us directly.' Donald Trump's former national security adviser has warned Australia needs to clarify its position on China, which had grown ambiguous under Anthony Albanese. John Bolton this week said the Albanese government was 'less vocal about what the problem is' in comparison to its predecessors. 'It is a little hard to get used to,' Bolton said in an interview. Just a few weeks ago, while Albanese was on Chinese soil, the Pentagon demanded to know if Australia would support the US if China attacked Taiwan. Bolton warned that the US could treat its quieter allies with suspicion as tensions in the Pacific persist. The Trump administration is already reconsidering the AUKUS deal, which would provide Australia with nuclear submarines. The ex-national security advisor, who was fired in a tweet by Trump during his first term in 2019 after repeated clashes, said that 'back in the Cold War days, Labour governments in Great Britain were just as anti-communist' as the right wing. 'When you see a leftist government that's not willing to talk as openly about what the real threat is, it does make some people nervous,' Bolton told The Sydney Morning Herald. '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,' he said. Washington insiders have called for the Albanese Government to urgently make its position on Taiwan public (pictured, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) John Bolton (right) was Trump's national security advisor in his first term until he was booted John Bolton, Donald Trump's former national security adviser, warned the US will want to know if the submarines it sells to Australia will be used to back it in global conflicts Tensions between China and the West have significantly grown since the communist superpower began ramping up efforts to grow influence over the Indo-Pacific in the 2010s. Chinese President Xi Jinping claimed in a recent speech that: 'No one can stop China's 'reunification' with Taiwan'. The continued pressure from Washington for Australia to make its stance on China public comes in spite of the US growing guarded over its own position. While former president Joe Biden repeatedly said the US would defend Taiwan from Chinese invasion, the Trump administration's style has been described as 'purposeful strategic ambiguity' to keep both friends and foes guessing. So why should Australia, which sits much closer to the disputed region, be the first to stick its neck out? Naval operations expert Bryan Clark, a senior fellow at the conservative Hudson Institute, believes it boils down to AUKUS. In 2023, Australia announced it would buy three American-made nuclear submarines. Those subs are set to be delivered in the early 2030s. From there, the US and UK will share knowledge with Australia to help it be able to build its own nuclear submarines, SSN AUKUS subs. The Trump administration has repeatedly called for Australia to announce it will defend Taiwan, despite the US sticking to a policy of 'strategic ambiguity' (pictured, President Donald Trump) That submarine construction yard will be built in Adelaide's Osborne Naval Shipyard, which South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas toured alongside US congressmen on Wednesday. Mr Clark explained the US wanted clarification on whether the submarines it sells to Australia would be used to back America, should it find itself in conflict with China. He said Australia had been 'reticent' to explicitly say they would be used against China, which had raised some questions in Washington about why the government was not more straightforward about the reason for purchasing the submarines. Australia is spending billions to procure the submarines, but there is not a guarantee they will arrive. The AUKUS deal contains a clause that the US can only supply Australia excess submarines not needed by its own navy. Australia has so far paid the US two installments of $800million twice this year, in February and July. By the end of 2025, Australia will have paid USD$2billion to help expand America's nuclear submarine production, which is already worryingly behind schedule. Australia has committed to spending $368billion over 30 years on the AUCKUS submarine pact, despite facing several challenges since Trump took office All up, Australia plans to spend $368billion over 30 years on the AUKUS submarine pact. The pact is currently being reviewed by US defence under secretary Elbridge Colby, a vocal AUKUS skeptic. While it's widely believed AUKUS will remain intact when the review concludes in the coming months, it has only served to further strain relations between the US and Australia following Trump's trade tariff spree. Bolton conceded it was detrimental for America to expect Australia to publicly call out China while it remained tight-lipped. However, he supported Washington's calls for Australia to lift its defence budget to three per cent of GDP. Labor's existing policies promise just 2.33 per cent of GDP by 2033. 'Everybody is going to have to go up, I just think that's inevitable. It's not because of Trump's pressure, it's because of what's going on in the real world,' Bolton said. Trump and Albanese (pictured) have not sat down together since Trump's inauguration in January In response to the US' earlier demands for an official stance on Taiwan, Albanese said he would not bow to pressure to make 'private' discussions public. 'The sole power to commit Australia to war, or to allow our territory to be used for conflict, is the elected government of the day,' he told the ABC. 'That is our position. Sovereignty will always be prioritised and that will continue to be our position.' Albanese has still not had a sit-down meeting with President Trump since his January inauguration. The pair were de to meet in June but the Trump left Canada's G7 summit early citing urgent developments in the Middle East, preceding the bombing of Iran. During the Australia America Leadership Dialogue in Adelaide this week, Democrat senator Chris Coons suggested Trump visit Australia soon. 'When you're sitting in the same room as someone you have a better conversation,' he told reporters. Mike Turner, former chair of the House Intelligence Committee, added an in-person dialogue would be 'helpful'. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are set for a high-stakes summit in Alaska on Friday to discuss bringing the war in Ukraine to an end. The summit, which does not include Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, will be held at Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson and marks the first standalone meeting between the two leaders since 2018. Beginning at 11:30 Alaska time (19:30 BST), it will be Putin's first visit to the United States since 2015. A press conference is also expected once the meeting ends. It comes amid escalating military activity in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donetsk region, where Russian forces have launched a rapid offensive. Zelensky has firmly rejected any agreement that involves giving up more territory, citing constitutional and security concerns. Meanwhile, European leaders have stressed the need to protect Ukraine's territorial integrity ahead of the summit. On Thursday, Zelensky met UK prime minister Keir Starmer in London, affirming his support for Ukraine. President Trump has indicated that any potential peace deal may involve territorial adjustments, suggesting 'some swapping' of territories. However, Ukrainian officials have expressed concerns that such proposals could undermine Ukraine's sovereignty. The summit is seen as a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, with the potential to either pave the way for a ceasefire or deepen divisions. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are set for a high-stakes summit in Alaska on Friday to discuss bringing the war in Ukraine to an end On Thursday, Zelensky met UK prime minister Keir Starmer in London, affirming the UK's support for Ukraine The talks will be held at the heavily guarded Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska Where and why is the summit happening? Alaska, the location for the summit, was once a Russian territory before it was sold in 1867 for $7.2million. The proximity of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, located in Anchorage, to Russia made it a critical point for monitoring and intercepting Soviet aircraft and missiles during the Cold War era. The location and its logistical neutrality make it a practical escape from International Criminal Court complications, as there is an ICC arrest warrant against Putin. The summit will begin at 11:30am Alaska time (19:30 BST) and marks the first time a meeting between the US and Russia will be held on American soil since 1988. The White House is already billing the gathering, aimed to end the war, as a 'listening exercise,' suggesting Trump intends to hear Putin's peace terms firsthand. It has also been translated as the White House's way of watering down expectations. The war in Ukraine started in February 2022 when Russia sent its army into Ukraine. This did not happen overnight - for many years, Russia has felt that Ukraine should be a part of it because the two countries used to be in the Soviet Union. In 2014, Ukrainians protested and removed their president, who was friendly to Russia. In response, Russia took control of Crimea, part of Ukraine - a decision that led to widespread condemnation. Russia has also expressed concern about NATO's expansion into Eastern Europe. The organisation, however, has repeatedly said it wants no confrontation with Russia. 'NATO does not seek confrontation and poses no threat to Russia', it has said. 'The Alliance will continue to respond to Russian threats and actions in a united and responsible way.' Although the Ukraine war will be the main focus on Friday, the two leaders will also discuss other matters such as trade and economic cooperation, according to Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov. They will also have a meeting, which will involve representatives of both countries. Trump is said to be offering Putin some of Alaska's natural resources. He is also expected to discuss the possibility of lifting some of the sanctions placed on Russia by him and his predecessor, Joe Biden. What are the expectations? For many years, Russia has felt that Ukraine should be a part of it because the two countries used to be part of the Soviet Union Trump has hinted that a peace deal could involve 'some swapping of territories to the betterment of both', though details remain vague and controversial. Last Friday, he said: 'We are looking to actually get some back and some swapping. It is complicated, actually nothing easy. We are going to get some back, some switched.' Sources familiar with discussions told CBS News that the White House is attempting to urge European leaders to consider a deal by which Russia would take the Donbas region and Crimea, and give up the partially-occupied regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Meanwhile, Russia is believed to present sweeping demands - Ukraine's withdrawal from regions like Donbas and Crimea, neutrality, and a rejection of NATO, conditions that Ukraine and its allies have long rejected. However, many analysts warn that without coordinated Western pressure and Ukraine's central role, the outcome remains uncertain. They also fear the talks could produce a victory for Putin without any guarantees of lasting peace. In recent days, European leaders have expressed concerns that a deal could be reached between Trump and Putin that does not favour Ukraine. Last Friday, Donald Trump said there would have to be territory swaps to achieve a peace deal As a result, they have repeatedly insisted that any agreement must include Ukraine's participation. In a joint statement over the weekend, European powers, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Finland, alongside EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, released a statement urging Trump to ensure that Ukraine was at the negotiating table. They said: 'The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine.' Meanwhile, Zelensky has said he would reject any proposals to give the Donbas region to Russia, saying it will serve as the basis for future attacks. He said: '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.' What are the obstacles in the way of a deal? The territory row is just one of several obstacles that could stand in the way of a deal between all sides. Despite Ukraines central role in the conflict, there is uncertainty about its participation in the talks. The Kremlin has reportedly rejected proposals to include Ukrainian President Zelensky, raising concerns about the legitimacy and inclusivity of any potential agreements. Zelensky has the support of European leaders - on Wednesday he took part in a conference call involving several leaders and President Trump The involvement of European leaders and other international allies will be crucial in shaping the outcome of the summit. Their support for Ukraine and their influence over the US and Russia could help ensure that any agreements uphold Ukraines sovereignty and lead to a lasting peace. On Thursday, Zelensky met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, cementing the UKs commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst escalating tensions and ongoing military actions in eastern Ukraine. The discussions between Zelensky and Starmer were expected to focus on reinforcing military and economic support for Ukraine. A day before that, he joined European leaders in a discussion with Trump to lay down their own expectations for the summit. Why now? Putin has increased attacks in eastern Ukraine ahead of his summit. The focus has been the Donetsk region, where Russian forces have launched new ground assaults from positions north of Pokrovsk toward Dobropillia. These attacks have broken through some Ukrainian defences and reached several settlements. In the Bilozerske community, authorities ordered families with children to evacuate for their safety. Members of the Ukrainian army helping to evacuate people from Eastern Ukraine Zelensky has sent elite units, including the Azov Brigade, to try to stop the advance. Experts say Russia may be using the attacks to strengthen its position ahead of the summit. Putin could aim to show that Russia is in control of key areas in Donetsk, hoping this might give him leverage in talks with Trump. Analysts warn that any discussion about peace will be complicated by the ongoing attacks and the strong support Ukraine receives from European allies. It was also reported that Putin was preparing to test his nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile on the eve of the summit, a move that some critics say could overshadow the meeting. A-level pupils who missed their grades were today rushing to get places through Clearing with three quarters of elite universities now hunting for students. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas) runs a process each summer to match students with university or college courses which still have spaces. Pupils can use the scheme if they do not get the grades for a conditional offer, do not receive any offers they want to accept or decide after June 30 to apply for university. Anyone who achieves better grades than expected and wishes to change universities can also use Clearing, which is open on the Ucas website from July 5 to October 5. Students can add a choice in the Ucas hub from 1pm this afternoon - and about 50,000 people tend to find their place through the scheme each year. Some 18 of the 24 Russell Group universities said yesterday they still have places up for grabs, including Durham, Bristol and King's College London. Between them, they have 3,492 courses available 13 per cent of the total 27,000 which are still on offer across all universities. It comes as Ucas figures showed the number of students accepted on to UK degree courses has risen to a record high year. Students receive their A-level results at Solihill School in the West Midlands this morning Students receive their A-level results at The Latimer Arts College in Northamptonshire today Your browser does not support iframes. A total of 439,180 applicants have gained a place at university or college - up 3.1 per cent on the same point last year. Ucas said it is the highest number of placed students on results day on record. Overall, 82 per cent of UK 18-year-old applicants awaiting a decision on results day secured their first choice - which was the same proportion as last year. For 18-year-olds in the UK, 255,130 applicants have been accepted onto a university or college course - up 4.7 per cent on last year. The number of international students who have been accepted on to undergraduate courses has risen by 2.9 per cent - from 51,170 last year to 52,640. Accepted applicants from China (12,380) are up 13 per cent compared with last year. Jo Saxton, chief executive of Ucas, said: 'This year's students were just thirteen when the pandemic hit, and their secondary schooling was turned upside down. 'It's great to see these applicants securing a university place in record numbers, seeking more education and investing in their futures. 'I am equally delighted to see how universities across the country have responded to their ambition. Students receive their A-level results at Ark Academy in London this morning 'For any student who didn't quite get the grades they were hoping for, or even those still yet to apply, there are plenty of options in clearing with around 27,000 available courses. 'Ucas experts are also available on the phones, on social media and on the Ucas website, to help all those deciding on the next step that's right for them.' The abundance of sought-after courses in Clearing means those who get rejected are likely to find a good alternative. Vivienne Stern, chief executive of Universities UK (UUK), said some universities are 'really keen' to recruit 'as many students as they can'. 'We have seen some evidence of universities dropping grades in order to fill places,' she added. It's a bit of a buyer's market this admissions round. It's been a very competitive admissions cycle from the institutional perspective. 'We know that some universities are offering places to students with lower grades than they might have done in the past.' Nick Hillman, director of the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi), said: 'This summer is shaping up to be a buyer's market for school leavers aiming for university. 'Demand is flat, so universities are very keen to recruit or else they'll have to close courses or even whole departments, something they are very keen to avoid. Students receive their A-level results at Sullivan Upper School in Holywood, Belfast, today 'People who do worse than they expected in their exams are well-placed to find a new place through Clearing including at traditional and prestigious universities. 'There are places available whether you missed a grade or two or are having to reassess all your options.' And Lee Elliot Major, professor of social mobility at the University of Exeter, said: 'Some universities are now in survival mode offering incentives, ramping up marketing, and relaxing offers to fill places.' Courses on offer include Architecture at Sheffield; Mechanical Engineering at Durham; Biochemistry at King's College London; Economics at Manchester and Politics at Birmingham. Some institutions are prepared to lower their normal entry requirements by up to four grades especially for those who faced challenges during their studies. Anyone picking up better than expected grades can also 'trade up' in Clearing to a more prestigious course. It means universities with lower entry requirements may struggle to fill courses if they lose too many students to their more high-ranking rivals. David Howells, head of undergraduate admissions of top-ranking Bath University, said: 'Almost all universities now have at least some Clearing vacancies, and we expect that will be the case at Bath and many other popular universities this year. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. 'That could be a great opportunity if you haven't quite got what you wanted, or have been pleasantly surprised on the day.' The scramble to hoover up students has been partly caused by an overall drop in the number of lucrative international applicants, following a change in visa rules. This has caused a financial crisis, with a recent report by the Office for Students showing 43 per cent of universities face a deficit in 2024/25. It comes as national figures showed the proportion of A-level entries awarded top grades rose again this year, remaining above pre-pandemic highs. Students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their exam results today, with many finding out if they would progress to university, an apprenticeship or work. More than a quarter (28.3 per cent) of UK entries were awarded an A or A* grade, up by 0.5 percentage points on last year, when 27.8 per cent achieved the top grades. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. This was higher than in 2019, the last year that summer exams were taken before the pandemic, when 25.4 per cent of entries were awarded A or A* grades. It is the highest proportion of entries scoring top grades outside the pandemic-affected years of 2020-22, according to the figures from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Boys have outperformed girls in terms of top grades for the first time in seven years. The proportion of UK entries awarded the top A* grade this year has also risen, by 0.1 percentage points to 9.4 per cent, compared to 9.3 per cent in 2024, and it is higher than when it stood at 7.7 per cent in 2019. The overall pass rate - the proportion of entries graded A* to E - has also risen to 97.5 per cent this year, which is up on last year (97.2 per cent) and the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (97.6 per cent). Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator of Ofqual, England's exams regulator, said the standard of work required to achieve grades has 'held constant' since 2023. He added that any changes were because a 'smaller, smarter cohort' of students had sat their A-level exams this year compared to previous years. It has been 100 years since a cave explorer became trapped in a Kentucky cave for 17 days and died there after efforts to rescue him were unsuccessful. The harrowing ordeal of Floyd Collins, 37, made global headlines at the time, as reporters closely followed the tragic endeavour, drawing thousands of people to the scene. A century has passed since the January 1925 tragedy, but Collins' story remains etched in history as the site of his death remains a morbid tourist attraction. A curious explorer since the age of six, Collins spent much of his time exploring rocky terrains and crevices. In 1918, he discovered the Great Crystal Cave in the Flint Ridge Cave system in south-central Kentucky. Wanting to make the caves more accessible to visitors, he decided to open up Sand Cave and began working to enlarge the small passage. On January 30, 1925, the explorer became trapped in a narrow crawl-way 55 ft below ground after a dislodged 27-pound boulder wedged his ankle against the cave wall. Collins desperately tried to free himself, but to no avail. Americam cave explorer Floyd Collins became trapped and died in a cave in Kentucky in 1925 The incident and attempts to rescue the cave explorer earned major media attention Pictured: Memorial to American cave explorer Floyd Collins that stood at the base of the Floyd Collins Monument in Horse Cave, Kentucky, circa 1950 A passerby miraculously heard the explorer's cries for help, and a rescue team was quickly formed to get him out. In the days that followed, Collins' ordeal became a national spectacle, with thousands of rescuers, engineers, geologists, journalists and even spectators rushing to the site. At one point, the mouth of the cave was flooded by thousands of curious onlookers and vendors selling food, drinks and souvenirs. According to the Kentucky National Guard, at least 50,000 people may have gathered there. But by day four of the rescue mission, a rock collapsed into the cave where Collins was, blocking the passageway used to pass him food and water. It took rescuers several more days to reach Collins, but by the time they found him, he had died three days prior - most likely from thirst, hunger and hypothermia. Recalling the day they reached his body, rescuers told the Kentucky National Guard: 'No sounds came from Collins at all, no respiration, no movement, and the eyes were sunken, indicating, according to physicians, extreme exhaustion going with starvation.' Sand Cave was sealed off and it took three more months for his body to be recovered. A miniature electric light plant set up in the Kentucky woods near the cave where Floyd Collins was entombed, 65 feet below the surface. The plant was used to supply heat for the victim and to light the rescue operations, but the Kentuckian explorer could not be reached and died in the cave Funeral services for Floyd Collins, whose body was found buried in debris in Sand Cave where he had been imprisoned for 2 weeks. Seated in the center are his parents, Mr. And Mrs. Lee Collins Sand Cave is now known as Mammoth Cave National Park - a World Heritage Site Although Collins was not known publicly for most of his life, the fame he gained from the rescue efforts and his death resulted in him being memorialised on his tombstone as the 'Greatest Cave Explorer Ever Known'. Due to wide coverage on his death, Collins' case has sparked curiosity throughout the years. At one point, his body was placed in a glass coffin on top of the cave to draw tourists, and several attempts were made to steal his body as a result. In one shocking instance in 1929, a thief managed to steal Collins' body, but police managed to track the criminal down and recover the corpse, which somehow lost a leg along the process. Collins' body was finally removed from the site in 1961 and was forever laid to rest at the Mammoth Cave Baptist Church. But his story continues to spark curiosity, with many explorers still flocking to Sand Cave, which is now known as Mammoth Cave National Park - a World Heritage Site. For many opening up their A Level results, it's a day of excitement and celebration, but it seems some sleepy students had other plans. Despite their impressive marks and places to study mechanical engineering at college, Jack and Leyton had only one thing on their mind - going back to bed. The two City of Liverpool College students confessed that they were 'dead happy' with their Distinction marks but that they couldn't wait to get some extra sleep, adding they were 'too tired for this'. Leyton and Jack, who were in the same class at the college in Liverpool's city centre, plan to enroll in the second year or their engineering course and look at apprenticeships linked to motorsports. Jack revealed he wanted to move in to the motorsports side of engineering and added that with his good results he thought he had a chance of earning a comfortable salary. But he revealed he had no immediate plans to celebrate and instead wanted to catch up on sleep. He told the BBC: 'I'm going back to bed, I'm too tired for this.' His friend Leyton revealed he was nervous opening up his results but was pleased with them and was excited for future opportunities. Jack (right) and Leyton (left) were 'dead happy' with their A Level results but instead of looking forward to celebrating, they confessed they were ready for bed The two City of Liverpool College students received distinctions in their exams and were were going on to study engineering Your browser does not support iframes. He said: 'It was nerve wracking when I got up, but I opened that sheet of paper and I was dead happy.' He added: 'So much hard work but it's paid off. So many late nights doing coursework. We are going to enrol in second year and then start looking at apprenticeships. There's so many opportunities in the engineering field, there's no shortage of work.' When asked how he would be celebrating, Leyton said he didn't have any plans, saying he was 'just going to go home and chill'. It comes as students and teachers celebrate a bumper year for A-level results following depressed grades during the pandemic years. Across all regions, 28.3 per cent of pupils got A/A* this year, compared with 27.8 per cent last year, and 25.4 per cent in 2019. Outside of the Covid years of 2020-2022, when grades were vastly inflated due to teacher assessment, this is the highest proportion on record. In addition, 9.4 per cent of entries got A* grades this year almost 1 in 10 up from 9.3 per cent last year and 7.7 per cent in 2019 making this also a non-pandemic record. Your browser does not support iframes. Leyton (left) said he didn't have any plans and he was 'just going to go home and chill' while Jack said he would be straight back to bed and was 'too tired for this' The top results meant a record 439,180 were accepted onto degree courses, up 3.1 per cent on the same point last year. Ofqual said this morning results are stable and suggested any changes could be due to the fact that this year students are cleverer. This is due to them being the first cohort since the pandemic to have GCSE grading returned to normal so harder putting less able students off taking A-levels. And the overall pass rate the proportion of entries graded A* to E has also risen to 97.5 per cent this year, which is up on last year (97.2 per cent) and the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (97.6 per cent), with boys outperforming girls for the first time in seven years. Chicago officials have insisted that nobody is trapped inside the world-famous Bean sculpture, after protestors went viral for claiming that someone has been stuck inside for 21 years. Footage taken from Chicago's Millennium Park, home of The Bean, showed a group of mock protestors clamouring for the release of the 'man in the Bean.' The satirical troupe, all of whom were holding signs and wearing black clothes, were heard shouting: 'There is a man in there. There is a man in the Bean'. The group accused, without merit, artist Anish Kapoor, the creator of Cloud Gate, the Bean's actual name, of kidnapping a child and placing it inside the sculpture to live 'in complete isolation.' One protestor said: 'There is a man trapped inside the Bean. We're calling for his immediate release. In 2004 Anish Kapoor, the chief architect of the bean, stole a baby and put that baby inside the bean. 'We are calling for the immediate release of the man trapped inside the bean.' The stunt has gone so viral that Chicago officials were forced to deny the accusations, and begged people to stop inundating them with calls about the Bean. Alderman Brendan Reilly, who represents Chicago's 42nd ward that is home to the bean, told local media: 'I am happy to confirm that a man has not been trapped inside "Cloud Gate" (a.k.a "the Bean") for the past 21 years.' Chicago officials have insisted that nobody is trapped inside the world-famous Bean sculpture, after protestors went viral for claiming that someone has been stuck inside for 21 years (File image) He said that while he appreciates a 'lighthearted parody as much as the next guy', the sheer number of calls his office has taken about the man in the Bean is preventing them from carrying out 'the real work we do for the 42nd Ward and City of Chicago.' Despite official protests, Chicagoans seem to be loving the stunt. Marisol Nunez told Block Club Chicago after her video of the group went viral: 'It makes me happy [that] people find it funny and even add onto the joke.' Karen Jessica Dorado, who works in a nearby shop, told the outlet: 'This is actually so unique, and Im so amazed on how their brains work to put this protest together.' So far, Anish Kapoor has not broken his silence over the stunt. The Daily Mail has contacted Kapoor for comment. Cloud Gate is a 100-tonne structure made from 168 highly-polished stainless steel plates that are formed in the shape of a bean. Kapoor was inspired by liquid mercury to create the 66ft long and 33ft high shape. US politicians have warned Labour that selling Britain's biggest water firm to a Chinese-owned firm would be a 'national security threat'. Hong Kong's CK Infrastructure Holdings (CKI) has emerged as a leading contender to take over debt-laden Thames Water. The Government is preparing for the potential collapse of the troubled water company, with ministers having appointed insolvency specialists to step up planning. FTI Consulting has been brought in as an administrator in the event Thames Water fails to secure funding from lenders. Contingency plans could see the company placed into a special administration regime. It is reported that such action would see Thames Water taken into temporary public ownership with much of its 16.8billion debt wiped out. This would then pave the way for it to be sold off to CKI, which already owns Northumbrian Water and UK Power Networks. But members of the US Congress have expressed concerns about links between CKI and the Chinese state. Hong Kong 's CK Infrastructure Holdings (CKI) has emerged as a leading contender to take over debt-laden Thames Water Environment Secretary Steve Reed has been urged to rule out the sale of Thames Water to a Chinese firm A spokesman for Congress's select committee on China told The Times: 'The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has a long history of using corporate fronts... to gain strategic control over foreign infrastructure, from ports to utilities. 'That's not just an economic issue, it's a national security threat. 'We stand with the UK and all of our allies in recognising the risks posed by CCP-linked investments in critical infrastructure. 'Whether it's the Panama Canal or Thames Water, Chinese firms tied to Beijing's legal and financial system should not be anywhere near assets that underpin the security and resilience of our nations.' Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader, also warned against allowing CKI to gain a stake in Thames Water. He told Times Radio it would be 'stupidity on stupidity' and a 'major national security risk'. 'What are we going to do? Keep rewarding them (China) for being absolutely awful and breaking every rule and threatening us,' Sir Iain added. 'You're about to hand to a country that is a threat, a greater power over our national infrastructure - which should be a big security problem' Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron, his party's environment spokesperson, urged Environment Secretary Steve Reed to rule out the sale of Thames Water to a Chinese firm. 'The Government is guilty of shocking weakness when it comes to China,' he said. 'First British Steel, then the super embassy, and now the sale of a big chunk of our critical water infrastructure. It's time they took our critical national infrastructure more seriously. 'It is unthinkable that such vital infrastructure as our own water supply should be sold by the Government to a Chinese firm.' Both the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs and CKI have been contacted for comment. A female police officer has won more than 40,000 after she was told she was a 'problem' because of a condition which stopped her from working in cold weather. PC Denise Gemmell was 'ambushed' and 'attacked' by her Inspector in a meeting that left her in tears after she explained her health condition prevented her from working in 'inclement' conditions, an employment tribunal found. PC Gemmell says she had 'no choice' but to phone in sick during winter months because snowy and icy conditions aggravate her neuralgia - a health condition which causes intense nerve pain. During a meeting with Inspector Stephen Gow, he grilled her over what she meant by 'inclement weather'. Insp Gow also questioned her condition by asking if she just avoided work 'when you don't fancy the weather?', a tribunal heard. PC Gemmell - based in Glasgow, Scotland, where temperatures can reach well below freezing in winter - was also subjected to a series of other 'vindictive' comments by Insp Gow. The Scottish officer, who is still serving, has now won 43,092 in compensation. She successfully sued Police Scotland for victimisation over the meeting with Insp Gow. PC Denise Gemmell, from Glasgow, says she was 'ambushed' and 'attacked' by Inspector Stephen Gow (pictured) over why her health condition stopped her working in cold weather PC Gemmell was forced to call in sick during winter - where temperatures in Glasgow can drop below freezing - because of her neuralgia, a health condition which causes intense nerve pain (Glasgow in January, file photo) Glasgow Employment Tribunal heard PC Gemmell has been a serving officer for 26 years. In 2014 she was involved in an accident which left her with neuralgia. Neuralgia is pain in the nerves and nerve pathways, causing bursts of sudden, shooting and severe pain in the face which the NHS says is like 'having an electric shock in the jaw, teeth or gums'. PC Gemmell had to be removed from frontline policing and in 2016 was moved to the Service Delivery Unit, which organises police resources and is overseen by Insp Gow. In December 2022, PC Gemmell had to call in sick due to bad weather in Glasgow. The tribunal heard: 'In the email, [PC Gemmell] makes reference to cold weather and how this affects her. 'She describes herself as being in high pain. 'She makes reference to adjustments [her HR record which states she had] an adjustment for attendance in inclement weather. The Scottish officer, who is still serving, has now won 43,092 in compensation from Police Scotland for 'victimisation' (File photo) '[PC Gemmell] was not due to start her shift until 2pm and she states that she is going to struggle. 'She states that she needs another plan because she is affected by the weather and is forcing herself into work when she is in pain. 'She states that this causes her stress. She states that she does not like going off sick but is considering doing so because she cannot go into work stressed and in high pain.' PC Gemmell said in a second email that 'cold weather affects her condition and that she has no choice but to phone in sick'. She was off for almost a week. Upon her return to work, Insp Gow called her into a meeting in what the tribunal described as an 'ambush'. He was frustrated she had approached the Police Federation and told her she 'was taking up too much of his time and he had spent two days in meetings and calls about her when he had a division to look after'. It was heard the pair discussed her health issues. 'She explained that she takes a lot of the winter off because of the weather', the tribunal heard. '[Insp Gow] asked [PC Gemmell] what was meant by "inclement weather" and she replied that it meant snow or ice. 'He stated that it could mean wind too and asked [her] if she was saying that she just did not come in if she did not "fancy" the weather. '[PC Gemmell] replied that she did not need an adjustment for wind. '[Insp Gow] pointed out when the email was sent and asked whether [she] had just looked out of the window and decided she was not going to work. '[PC Gemmell] replied "sort of" and explained that she gets anxious driving in the snow as the cold affects her condition so if it did not clear then she could not drive.' Insp Gow then told PC Gemmell that others at their station did not like her. '[Insp Gow] stated that her colleagues did not like her and she was having an adverse effect on them. 'He went to state that supervisors find her a problem to manage. 'He said that no-one has probably told her this before but people cannot work with her and no-one has a nice word to say about her. 'She needs to do self-reflection as what she sees, others do not; she is not good at her job. 'He went on to state that people do not like to be around her.' After the meeting PC Gemmell was 'in tears and very upset'. She went off sick and has not returned since. She went without pay for 11 months, however, her pay has since been reinstated. Employment Judge Peter O'Donnell said the meeting amounted to victimisation. Judge O'Donnell said: 'In these circumstances, the Tribunal considers that [PC Gemmell] was, in effect, 'ambushed' by [Insp Gow]... She went into a meeting about which she had no prior knowledge or opportunity to prepare. 'The Tribunal considers that [Insp Gow] was challenging [PC Gemmell] on a number of issues. 'For example, he questions the terms of [her] adjustment relating to weather asking her to define 'inclement weather' and questioning this a number of times. 'The terms in which [he] questions [her] about this led the Tribunal to infer that he was challenging the validity of the adjustment. 'For example, at one point he asks [PC Gemmell] whether she was saying that she does not come in 'when you don't fancy the weather?' 'The picture that emerges of this meeting is that [PC Gemmell] was subject to an attack by [Insp Gow] without any prior warning or opportunity to prepare to defend herself. 'Any employee being told that people did not want to work with her, that her colleagues did not like her and that she was not good at her job would undoubtedly and almost inevitably be adversely affected. 'It is difficult not to see a degree of vindictiveness in the comments made to [PC Gemmell] by [Insp Gow] about how others view her and the Tribunal does consider that there was an element of [him] seeking to put [her] in her place by raising these issues in the very blunt way that he did.' PC Gemmell lost a disability discrimination claim Robert Jenrick has filmed the moment bottles were thrown at him inside a Calais migrant camp - before he was 'ignored' by French police after reporting a group with life jackets heading towards a beach. The shadow justice secretary was speaking to people at the Loon-Plage camp, located between Calais and Dunkirk, when he said a man 'started throwing glass bottles' in his direction. Footage shows one of the bottles smashing on the ground before a member of Mr Jenrick's team says: 'Rob, go! Go now!' It comes days after his colleague, shadow home secretary Chris Philp, described having a machete pulled on him by a man inside the camp before he was also 'pelted with bottles'. Mr Jenrick's video - shot on Sunday - shows the politician speaking to migrants before fleeing the camp when the bottle smashed nearby him. In his video narration, Mr Jenrick describes then seeing '60 or 70 migrants holding life jackets', who he watches board a bus without any tickets at around 8.30pm. 'They're now there at the bus stop - no sign of the French police whatsoever,' he says. Mr Jenrick and his team followed the bus to Dunkirk, where he says: 'We think they're in a little passageway behind these houses. The beach is just there. Robert Jenrick phoning French police to report a group of migrants he saw heading towards a beach Mr Jenrick filmed the group boarding a bus without a ticket before travelling towards Dunkirk Some of the men filmed by Mr Jenrick during his visit over the weekend 'At daybreak, we find the migrants have gone. We don't know where. There's still no sign of any police. So I ring them.' During the phone call to the police, Mr Jenrick tells a female operator: 'I'm in Dunkirk and I saw a large group of maybe 40 or 50 illegal migrants in the cemetery off the main road by the beach.' After appearing to consult a manager, the woman responds: 'He does not think that they're going to come, but he's going to give the information to the police, then the police will decide.' Mr Jenrick then confirms that no one arrived, despite a three-year deal, first struck in March 2023, to double the number of French police patrolling the beaches. He adds: 'We've given 800m to France and we didn't see a police officer the whole day, and now we just phoned them and it doesn't sound like they'll even bother to come out.' Mr Jenrick believes the migrants either sailed into the Channel, went to another beach or abandoned their crossing attempt. It comes after the Tory leadership received an apology from the BBC after he was described as 'xenophobic' on Radio 4's Today programme. During the regular Thought For The Day segment yesterday, refugee charity boss Krish Kandiah claimed Mr Jenrick had increased 'fear of the stranger' among people. Piles of rubbish left behind by migrants living in a makeshift camp Migrants leave a beach in northern France in a smuggler's boat yesterday The scenes were pictured on the beach of Hardelot in Neufchatel-Hardelot Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Kandiah - director of Sanctuary Foundation - added: 'The technical name for this is xenophobia. All phobias are by definition irrational. Nevertheless, they have a huge impact. 'Over the past year, xenophobia has fuelled angry protests outside hotels housing asylum seekers, deepening divisions in our communities.' In a letter to the Conservative MP, the broadcaster's head of editorial standards Roger Mahony said the comments 'went beyond' what is expected of its Thought For The Day segment. Mr Mahony said: '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.' The content has since been removed from the programme on BBC Sounds. Mr Jenrick said: 'Illegal migration is obviously fuelling crime and the public are right to be concerned about it. 'It's 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.' It comes days after the former immigration minister's colleague, Home Secretary Chris Philp, described having a machete pulled on him by a man inside the camp before he was also 'pelted with bottles'. He's pictured on a boat during his visit to northern France A series of protests have been held outside the Bell Hotel in Epping, Essex, over recent weeks after an asylum seeker was accused of attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl. Hadush Gerberslasie Kebatu, 38, denies the charges of sexual assault and is due to stand trial this month. In a statement, the BBC said: 'During this episode of Thought For The Day, criticism was made of recent comments by shadow secretary of state for justice Robert Jenrick, about hotels housing asylum seekers. 'While the programme's reflection on fear in society from a faith perspective was broadly in line with expectations of Thought For The Day, some of the language used went beyond that and we apologise for its inclusion. 'It has been removed from the version on BBC Sounds.' On Monday alone there were 474 Channel arrivals, pushing the total past 50,000 since Labour came to power. A two-year-old boy has died after doctors used an air hose to dislodge a popcorn kernel that was stuck up his noise, rupturing his lungs and stomach. Ravi de Souza Figueiredo died hours after being treated and discharged from the Goiatuba Municipal Hospital in Goias state, Brazil, after the doctors performed the botched procedure. Two doctors have been indicted for manslaughter, after police and prosecutors opened an investigation into negligence at the hospital. His parents said they took him to the hospital after being unable to remove a corn kernel that got stuck in his nose. Hospital staff first tried to extract it with tweezers without success. They then inserted a rubber cannula into his nostril and blew compressed air twice in an attempt to dislodge it. The family said the kernel remained stuck and the child vomited immediately afterwards. His father noticed his stomach swell right after the procedure, and later forensic reports found his lung and stomach had ruptured. Ravi de Souza Figueiredo died hours after being treated and discharged from the Goiatuba Municipal Hospital in Goias state, Brazil, after the doctors performed the botched procedure His parents said they took him to the hospital after being unable to remove a corn kernel that got stuck in his nose Ravi was given medication for gas, kept under observation for a few hours and discharged. He later fell ill again and returned to the hospital, where further tests were carried out. 'He remained bloated, weak and couldn't speak. He didn't look well, he was distressed, so we returned to the same hospital,' his father Josenilson da Silva Figueiredo said, reported the Mirror. A pediatrician ordered his transfer to a larger hospital, but on the way he developed breathing difficulties and was declared dead soon after on April 5. His mother, Priscila Marta de Souza, said: 'I saw the moment the nurse lowered her head. She said: "Unfortunately, your son has passed away." I went into despair.' The autopsy recorded acute respiratory failure as the cause of death. His father is quoted in Brazilian news website G1 as saying: 'Ravi was fine, breathing normally and even talking. He was a healthy child, running everywhere. I want justice. It's so painful.' Police chief Sergio Henrique said the compressed air procedure was not in line with standard practice and that an immediate X-ray could have prevented the tragedy. Mother Priscila Marta de Souza said she went into 'despair' after the nurse told her that Ravi had died The Public Prosecutor's Office has received the investigation and is awaiting technical information from the Regional Medical Council of the State of Goias 'When trying to remove the corn kernel, which was in the boy's nose, the doctor used a non-standard technique, which is not recommended - introducing a compressed air cannula into the child's upper airways,' he said, addressing reporters on July 9. 'This caused air to enter the lungs and stomach with great force, leading to the rupture of these organs.' They have now charged Dr Daniella Carvalho Ferreira and Dr Isabella Helena Caixeta de Oliveira with negligence over the boy's death. The Public Prosecutor's Office has received the investigation and is awaiting technical information from the Regional Medical Council of the State of Goias. The family's lawyer, Vinicius Dias, said he would assist the prosecution and file a civil lawsuit, adding that the defence would be 'firm, technical and combative' to ensure accountability. A family of five, including three young children, have been found dead in a murder-suicide at an Oregon compound, according to police. The bodies were found on Monday when police went to the home, on a nine-acre compound, after Hannah Marie Behee, 42, failed to show up to work. Officials said Behee and her children - Grayson, 11, Nora, 7, and Trenton, 9 - were shot dead by her husband Chad Behee, 40. Investigators noted there were suspicious conditions around the property but did not provide further details. A motive for the killings remains unclear. Oregon Live reported that the suspected killer had a troubled youth and had made repeated suicide attempts. Hannah Behee, second from the right, was found shot dead alongside her three children, pictured with wings in an image shared by her family Police went to the home on a nine-acre property after Hannah Behee did not show up to work Grayson, 11, Nora, 7, and Trenton, 9, are pictured. They were found shot dead on Monday Hannah's family and friends took to Facebook to express regret that they could not help prevent the tragedy. 'I am Hannah's cousin and I am attempting to raise funds to help the family with funeral cost associated with a tragic incident that recently happened,' wrote Windy Carter. My heart is broken and I wish we could have done something to prevent this. Regretting all the times we didn't let the kids come over to play.' The family's relatives set up a GoFundMe account to collect funds for funeral costs for Hannah and the children. The page's description read: 'This devastating loss has left their family and friends in deep sorrow. Hannah was a loving mother, and her children were full of life and promise.' A probe into the family's deaths is ongoing. The Josephine County Sheriff's Office said they are working with the Grants Pass Police Department to investigate the deaths. Police asked that anyone with information contact them at 800-442-0776. A motive for the killings remains unclear but Hannah's husband had a troubled history The tragedy comes after another mother and her three young children were found dead in Cornelius, Oregon, in April. Police have only said that Hong Phuong Le, 37, her two young daughters and son died by homicide, but provided no cause of death. Months later, there have been no arrests. The cost of 'King Kong' fat jab Mounjaro will almost triple in Britain after Donald Trump sparked a global drugs price war. Manufacturer Lilly said it plans to raise the wholesale price from next month to bring it into line with 'other developed countries'. The move is set to push the annual cost of Mounjaro, for users who pay privately for the highest available dose, past 4,000. Pharmacy leaders fear more firms will now be emboldened to announce their own price rises and warned patients risk becoming 'pawns' in a wider dispute over the cost of medicines. The inflation-busting increase comes after President Trump demanded US drug makers lower prices for American patients, who he said 'subsidise the health care of foreign countries'. In a letter to pharma firms, he said they should 'negotiate harder with foreign freeloading nations' and 'increased revenues abroad must be repatriated to lower drug prices for American patients and taxpayers'. Mr Trump has previously complained that a friend bought a 'fat drug' in London for a fraction of the price it cost in the US, despite being 'the same box made in the same plant by the same company'. He wants companies to guarantee US patients are charged the best possible price for their drugs equal to or better than other developed countries and told firms to make up any lost revenue from other nations. The cost of 'King Kong' fat jab Mounjaro will almost triple in Britain after Donald Trump sparked a global drugs price war. Manufacturer Lilly said it plans to raise the wholesale price from next month to bring it into line with 'other developed countries' (file image) Pharmacy leaders fear more firms will now be emboldened to announce their own price rises and warned patients risk becoming 'pawns' in a wider dispute over the cost of medicines. (file image) Your browser does not support iframes. Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, which represents thousands of community pharmacies in Britain, said: 'We are shocked and very disappointed by this more than doubling of the wholesale cost of Mounjaro. 'This is a real blow to patients, at a time when more and more people worried about their weight are turning to jabs. Costs compared: Current price of one 15mg KwikPen from an online pharmacy US: 813 Canada: 425 Germany: 421 UAE: 349 Australia: 331 UK: 199 Advertisement 'British patients must not become pawns in a wider dispute about the costs of medicines arising from President Trump's recent letter to the US drug manufacturers.' The list price of a 15mg KwikPen, which is the highest dose available and enough for four weekly shots, will increase from 122 to 330 a rise of 170 per cent. Some online retailers are already charging more. The cost of a 2.5mg pen, the lowest dose available, will rise 45 per cent from 92 to 133 from September 1, US firm Eli Lilly said. Clinical research into the effectiveness of the injections show they deliver 'value', it added. Studies have shown patients taking tirzepatide, the active drug in Mounjaro, lost 20 per cent of their body weight over 72 weeks. Mounjaro was nicknamed the King Kong of weight loss drugs because of its strong results in clinical trials, particularly when compared to certain rivals. Lilly is negotiating prices individually with private providers, who may be able to secure a discount they can pass on to customers. Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, said: 'British patients must not become pawns in a wider dispute about the costs of medicines arising from President Trump's (pictured) recent letter to the US drug manufacturers' Studies have shown patients taking tirzepatide, the active drug in Mounjaro, lost 20 per cent of their body weight over 72 weeks. Mounjaro was nicknamed the King Kong of weight loss drugs because of its strong results in clinical trials (file image) Mounjaro price increases Mounjaro (tirzepatide) KwikPen Dose Current UK List Price New UK List Price (From September) 2.5mg 92 133 5mg 92 180 7.5mg 107 255 10mg 107 255 12.5mg 122 330 15mg 122 But the company said it is down to pharmacies to set the price they charge and this may include processing fees and consultation fees. The price the NHS pays will not change. Dr Hannbeck added: 'IPA calls on the other weight-loss manufacturers to hold their nerves and hold their prices. The British market for weight-loss jabs is only set to grow, but it will only achieve that growth if treatment remains affordable to the average patient.' 'We are concerned that more pharmaceutical companies may increase their prices as a result of tariffs and this will have a detrimental impact on our medicines market, our pharmacies and our patients. We urge the Government to have contingencies in place should this happen.' The UK Government is closely monitoring developments with the global price of medicines and will seek to protect supplies and the NHS. Online pharmacies around the world were yesterday charging vastly different prices for the 15mg dose of Mounjaro, including 199 in the UK, 331 in Australia, 421 in Germany and 813 in the USA. The jab works by targeting the GLP-1 receptors, which suppress appetite and make users feel fuller for longer. Online pharmacies around the world were yesterday charging vastly different prices for the 15mg dose of Mounjaro, including 199 in the UK, 331 in Australia, 421 in Germany and 813 in the USA. The jab works by targeting the GLP-1 receptors Your browser does not support iframes. There was a global shortage of GLP-1 injections after celebrity users sparked a surge in popularity and the NHS has warned individuals against buying them from unauthorised sources. A Lilly spokesman said: 'Following a review, Lilly will increase the UK list price for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) from 1 September to address pricing inconsistencies compared to other developed countries, including in Europe. 'In parallel, we have reached an agreement with the NHS to ensure continued supply and patient access. While Lilly does not determine the prices that private healthcare providers set, we are working with them to maintain patient access. 'The UK was one of the first countries where Lilly launched Mounjaro, and our priority was to bring it to patients as quickly as possible during a time of limited supply of GLP-1 RA treatments for type 2 diabetes. 'At launch, Lilly agreed to a UK list price that is significantly below the European average to prevent delays in NHS availability. 'With changes in the environment and new clinical evidence supporting the value of Mounjaro, we are now aligning the list price more consistently to ensure fair global contributions to the cost of innovation.' Two in three adults in Britain are obese or overweight and more than 5million people have type-2 diabetes, linked to poor diet and lifestyles. Estimates suggest one in ten women already take weight loss jabs (file image) Poll Would you try Mounjaro? Yes No Would you try Mounjaro? Yes 14326 votes No 6995 votes Now share your opinion Two in three adults in Britain are obese or overweight and more than 5million people have type-2 diabetes, linked to poor diet and lifestyles. Estimates suggest one in ten women already take weight loss jabs. An NHS England spokesman said: 'Licensed, cost-effective weight loss medication, such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro) provides a valuable tool to support people to reach a healthier weight and the wider health and lifestyle benefits that offers. 'The list price increase will not affect NHS commissioning of tirzepatide in England for eligible people living with obesity, based on clinical priority, or as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Anyone with questions about their private tirzepatide prescription should contact their provider.' White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles continues to silently flex her authority after convincing the president to rehire a vaccine regulator who was sacked at the urging of a prominent MAGA influencer. Laura Loomer, one of Donald Trumps most fanatic loyalists, has made it her mission to go after officials in the administration who she believes are disloyal to the president. The right-wing activist appears to have the ear of the president but her influence, like most actors in Trumps world, is limited and inconsistent. On Monday, Dr. Vinay Prasad returned to his job at the FDA center that oversees vaccines and biotech therapies. Prasad, a longtime critic of the FDA, is viewed as a top ally to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Last month, Prasad left the agency after his past statements criticizing Trump were brought to light by Loomer. Two anonymous senior administration officials revealed that Wiles intervention in getting Prasads job back was essential, according to a report by Politico. Kennedy along with Prasads boss, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary, were also key to undoing the damage caused by Loomer as they pleaded for his return. After Vinay left, Marty and Bobby worked very, very, very hard through Susie Wiles, the presidents chief of staff, to tell the president that Vinay was not anti-Trump, claimed one of the anonymous senior administration officials to Politico. Laura Loomer helped lead to Prasad's initial removal from the administration by pointing to his prior statements critical of Trump Susie Wiles along with RFK Jr. helped convince Trump to undo his decision removing Prasad from the FDA Prasad's return shows that Loomer's influence with Trump has limits in the White House 'The MAHA movement is an expansion of the MAGA, sort of, you know, big tent,' the source added. Trump's decision to bring Prasad back into the fold showcased the limits of Loomers influence within the White House. Moreover, the presidents reversal gave a small win to Kennedy who is attempting to completely reform US regulation surrounding drugs and vaccines. According to Politico, Loomer has set her sights on bringing down Kennedy and his top aides because she believes he will use his time in the administration to launch a presidential bid in 2028. Loomer had accused Prasad of being disloyal to Trump by citing past social media posts he had made amid the 2020 pandemic when he claimed he was once a supporter of Bernie Sanders. Makary and Kennedy, with assistance from Wiles, persuaded the Oval Office to review their decision to axe Prasad by arguing that his prior statements were taken out of context. I think it really is something good about the president that hes willing to change his mind when persuaded, one of the anonymous senior administration officials told Politico. Loomer has recently attacked many of Trump's MAGA allies including Marjorie Taylor Greene In recent weeks, Loomer has gone after a number of MAGA Trump loyalists on social media, including Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lindsey Graham. Although Trump has listened to Loomers advice on personnel hiring in the past, Prasads rehiring indicates that Wiles still holds the keys to the White House. Liam Gallagher has been banned from throwing maracas into the crowd after a fan who caught them at Wembley was hurt by men who mobbed her. The Oasis frontman, 52, has been launching maracas and his iconic tambourine into the audience at the end of every concert on their tour after singing Champagne Supernova. His finale stunt has been sending fans wild as they scramble to get their hands on the flying instruments to take home as a souvenir. However, things took a turn for the worst when rabid men injured a woman as the frantically fought to grab the pair of tied-up maracas out of her hands after she caught them. Chantal Arpino, 42, from Chesham, Buckinghamshire, was left scratched and bruised after getting mobbed by two men at the final Wembley show on August 3. On Tuesday, fans at the Edinburgh show booed as Liam said he had been told he couldn't throw the instruments because fans 'don't know how to behave themselves.' 'I can't throw my tambourine out tonight or my maracas I've been told not to. I'm not being tight or anything like that, do you know what I mean,' he said, before singing Champagne Supernova. 'I've just been told don't do any of that s**t anymore because you don't know how to behave yourselves. Liam Gallagher has been banned from throwing maracas into the crowd after a fan who caught them at Wembley was hurt by men who mobbed her Oasis fan Chantal Arpino, 42, pictured with her partner Matt Marchant, 47, said she was left injured after Liam Gallagher's maracas were snatched from her The fan said her nails were forced into her own fingers when a man put his hands on top of hers to get the maracas 'You keep pinching each other on your nipples and ears and f***ing s**t like that and kneeing each other in the bollocks b******s. I've been told now.' Chantal was 11 rows back when Liam threw the instrument into the air after finishing the show. After catching them, men nearby allegedly began fighting her for them, snatching them from her and leaving her injured. Upset mortgage advisor Chantal - who paid the best part of 1,000 for tickets - said the ordeal ruined her experience. She had several cuts to her hands as well as large bruises on her legs, where the two men allegedly crushed her to prise the maracas from her hands. Photos of a group of men with what appear to be the maracas were then posted on Facebook by a man called Adam Warwick, who wrote: 'Yes we got one! Anyone see my mate in the black T-shirt grab it to confirm it's legit before we consider selling it to fund more tickets? What a night.' It is not known if these were the men who wrestled Chantal. She had travelled to the event with her partner Matt Marchant, 47, and was among 90,000 fans who packed into the London stadium. She sustained several cuts to her hands as well as a number of large bruises on her legs The Oasis frontman has been launching maracas and his iconic tambourine into the audience at the end of every concert on their tour after singing Champagne Supernova 'The maracas were tied together and when I grabbed them I've got my hands round both of them,' she said. 'One hand has been pushed into another; I think the cuts are actually from my own nails. 'The one to my left was quite big, he's kind of over me, he's got his hand over my hand and he's squeezing. The other one he's literally trying to prise my fingers off. 'I told him "You are going to snap my fingers, this is really painful". I couldn't let go as my hands were trapped between the maracas. 'It was horrible. The maracas separated and then the guy who had his hands on me, he picked one up and put it under his jumper. 'I was literally shouting "You're hurting me. You are going to snap my fingers." He would not let go. The strength they used was unreal. I've never experienced anything like it. 'I don't even know where the bruise to my leg came from. I think the guy to my left must have been kneeling on me. 'It would have been a lovely memento, but the behaviour. It's not even about being a girl. Why behave like that?' Chantal was among 90,000 fans who packed into the London stadium His finale stunt has been sending fans wild as they scramble to get their hands on the flying instruments to take home as a souvenir Photos of a group of men with what appear to be the maracas were then posted on Facebook by a man called Adam Warwick She added: 'The level of strength used - think about what you're doing guys.' Chantal said she still had a good night, but it was a 'shame that was the ending'. She also posted on Facebook about her experience. 'Just a little reminder to not behave like animals please,' she said. 'Someone has posted their delight at securing one of Liam's maracas from last night's concert. 'This was at my expense, it's not OK to wrestle someone to the ground for any reason let alone for maracas! 'I completely get that it was the heat of the moment but just remember there is a human being that you are wrestling with, two guys against one girl is not ok. 'I had no way to defend myself as both my hands were trapped between the maracas and one man's vic-like grip, with the other man trying to snap my fingers back. 'I can only assume one of them also grabbed my leg given the nicely developing set of bruises on my thigh! The man wrote: 'Yes we got one! Anyone see my mate in the black T-shirt grab it to confirm it's legit before we consider selling it to fund more tickets?' Images show a group in Oasis T-shirts with the maracas as well as one maraca tucked up in bed She had several cuts to her hands as well as large bruises on her legs, where the two men allegedly crushed her to prise the maracas from her hands Chantal had travelled to the event with her partner and was among 90,000 fans who packed into the London stadium 'Cheers guys, hope you're proud of yourselves! 'So if you are lucky enough to go to one of the remaining concerts and lucky enough to have a tambourine or maracas launched in your direction please remember you are not animals! 'Have an amazing time, it really is an incredible experience! The bruises and cuts will fade, the memories of a brilliant night won't.' A post on the same Facebook group from those who apparently got the maracas drew widespread criticism. Images show a group in Oasis T-shirts with the maracas as well as one maraca tucked up in bed. It is not known if these were the men who wrestled Chantal. The day before, a fan plunged to his death from the upper tier of block 511. The Metropolitan police said a man in his 40s died after suffering injuries consistent with a fall at the end of the band's performance at about 10.19pm on August 2. The Oasis Live '25 Tour continues with two nights in Dublin next weekend, before the band heads to Canada and the US. A rookie prison officer who triggered more than 100 corruption alerts in just five months is facing jail - after allegedly embarking on an illicit fling with a dangerous gangster behind bars. Megann Gibson, 26, exchanged 'very explicit' letters hinting the pair had sex while she was on duty at Wealstun prison, near Wetherby, a court heard today. The unnamed prisoner, described as 'extremely manipulative', is said to be a member of an organised crime group serving an indefinite public protection sentence. Gibson, from Leeds, also visited the Sheffield-based inmate's home, bombarded his mother with more than 900 text messages, and reportedly met members of his feared crime gang on the outside. She is set to be jailed in November after admitting misconduct in a public office and possession of cannabis. Leeds Crown Court heard that in just five months of working at the Category C resettlement prison, her behaviour triggered 102 anti-corruption intelligence reports. The red flags equated to almost one every working day, Judge Kate Rayfield noted. Prosecutor Louise Pryke told the court that in one letter the criminal thanked Gibson for a vape and described enjoying their kisses. Prison officer Megann Gibson, 26, (pictured arriving at court today) triggered almost daily corruption alerts after embarking on an illicit fling with a dangerous gangster behind bars, a judge was told Megann Gibson, 26, exchanged 'very explicit' letters hinting she had sex with a dangerous gangster pair while working at Wealstun prison near Wetherby, West Yorkshire Gibson, who lives in a semi-detached home with her sister (pictured together) and driving instructor mother in the Gipton suburb of Leeds, was previously warned by a judge that she could face a prison sentence She said: 'I don't know if they had sex or not. 'It seems from the content of the letters that they did.' Ms Pryke added: 'This was an inappropriate relationship with a prisoner which included very explicit letters that were sent about sexual activity. 'The nature of the letters [suggests] there probably was [sexual activity], but the crown can't say for definite. 'It's a wholly inappropriate relationship with a serving prisoner who is a member of an organised crime group. 'There's some suggestion she met with members of that group.' Gibson was suspected by police of having contact with crime gang members suspected of smuggling cannabis vape pens into the prison. The court heard there was no evidence Gibson smuggled the devices into the jail, but police investigations revealed one of the gang member's phones contained her number. Prosecutors said it was 'wholly inappropriate' for prison officer Megann Gibson, 26, (pictured today) to start an alleged sexual relationship with an inmate who is a member of an organised crime group Gibson flooded the criminal's mother with more than 900 messages, reportedly in a bid stay in contact with him Gibson, who admitted misconduct in a public office and possession of cannabis, will now be sentenced in November Intelligence reports filed by the prison included Gibson being seen smoking cannabis in her car whilst in uniform outside the prison, and after being stopped at security with prohibited tobacco. The court heard there was 'no evidence' that she smuggled contraband inside. Ms Pryke said prison bosses were concerned that Gibson spent an 'inordinate amount of time with inmates, going into their cells. 'Other officers were not able to find her when she was supposed to be on duty.' On one occasion, Gibson was AWOL and found outside the cell of a serving prisoner who later tried to add her mobile number to his list of prison-approved contacts. Despite repeated corruption alerts, Gibson was allowed to continue on duty after being given 'educational training'. Gibson admitted misconduct between April and May 2023 but her account of her criminality, known as a basis of plea, is disputed. Upon her arrest, police discovered 1,000 in cash, which Gibson claimed to have been withdrawn from her bank. However, checks revealed no such transaction took place. Gibson later said she had been saving for a tattoo. Gibson also allowed the unnamed inmate into restricted areas of the Category C resettlement prison and visited his home address, a court heard A hearing will be held in November to determine the basis on which her sentencing should proceed. Gibson, who lives in a semi-detached home in the Gipton suburb of Leeds, covered her face as she arrived at court and was seen sobbing shortly before proceedings began. Judge Rayfield told Gibson, who was released on unconditional bail: 'You will appreciate that it is important that we get this right and you have the opportunity to be heard, if you want to be heard, because only you know what really happened.' A previous court hearing was told Gibson had undergone assessments for mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress linked to a previous relationship. The case comes amid a surge in female officers caught in inappropriate relationships with inmates. At least 30 women have been sacked in the past three years - more than triple the number from the previous three-year period. Last month, Olivia Johnson was jailed for three-and-a-half years for smuggling 35,000 worth of drugs into jail for a convicted gangster. Johnson, 27, attempted to sneak in paper soaked with the synthetic drug Spice for dangerous Javelle Taylor, 29, while working at HMP Highpoint in Suffolk. Katie Evans, 26, embarked on an illicit romance with inmate Daniel Brownley while working at HMP Doncaster, calling herself his 'queen' as she lavished him with attention. The mother-of-one, who was jailed for 21 months in March, boasted about sex acts on the criminal and collecting drugs cash on his behalf. Her criminal behaviour was exposed during an anti-corruption investigation into another crooked guard at the category B jail. Morgan Farr Varney, 24, was jailed for ten months after being caught slipping into a cupboard with a prisoner while working at HMP Lindholme in South Yorkshire. She became besotted with crack cocaine dealer Jordan Stones, 30, who pinned racy snaps of his prison officer lover to his cell walls. In January, former Wandsworth prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu, 31, was jailed for 15 months after a film of her having sex with an inmate was shared online. A friend of a Labour councillor who called for far-right protesters' throats to be cut claimed the language he used was 'completely out of character', a court has heard. Ricky Jones, 58, appeared at an anti-racism rally last year in the wake of rioting following the Southport murders, where he described demonstrators as 'disgusting Nazi fascists', his trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court was told. A video of Jones addressing crowds in Walthamstow, east London, on August 7 last year, went viral on social media after the protest. Wearing a black polo top and surrounded by cheering supporters, the now-suspended councillor said: '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. Giving evidence on Thursday, Jones's friend Kevin Courtney, a retired teacher and former joint general secretary of the National Education Union (NEU), said: 'I had not heard him say those words or anything in any way similar to that. 'I think they are wrong. I was surprised that Ricky said them... I think it is completely out of character.' Both men have campaigned for anti-racism group Stand Up To Racism and have been at rallies together before, the court heard. Labour councillor Ricky Jones who is accused of encouraging violent disorder after taking part in a counter-protest in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, last year Jones is pictured speaking at a counter protest in Hoe Street, Walthamstow, on August 7 Ricky Jones leaves Snaresbrook Crown Court, east London, on Tuesday Mr Courtney had been at the August 7 rally in Walthamstow, had met Jones and the pair had taken a selfie together, but Mr Courtney told the court he did not hear what Jones had said and only became aware of it when he saw videos later. Asked by Hossein Zahir KC, defending, whether Jones had ever encouraged any form of violence, Mr Courtney said: 'No, it was a complete shock when I saw that video.' 'Ricky's speech was wrong, but it didn't fit at all with the mood of the gathering that we were at. The mood was peaceful...Ricky's words just didn't gel with that at all.' The retired teacher added: 'Ricky's words didn't fit with that (mood), therefore people didn't respond to them as anything they should do, it just didn't fit with that at all.' The August 7 demonstration had been organised in response to plans for a far-right march outside Waltham Forest Immigration Bureau, jurors were told. It followed the nationwide violent disorder that occurred last summer after the Southport murders. Before the protest, the councillor had been warned to stay away from such demonstrations by the Labour Party. Jones previously told the court he would 'have attended anyway' despite this, adding: 'It's important for us to turn up to demonstrations like this to support our communities.' The 58-year-old, who has been a borough councillor in Dartford, Kent, since 2019, was arrested on August 8 last year and interviewed at Brixton Police Station that night. Jones, of Dartford, denies one count of encouraging violent disorder. The trial continues. A four-year-old boy suffered a terrifying HIV scare after he was pricked in the foot by a dirty hypodermic needle that had been discarded by the 'zombie' drug addicts who have taken over the streets of Boston. The youngster was jabbed by the needle while attending a birthday party in a South Boston park near his family home on July 11. He ran out of the play area without any shoes on and screamed as a needle stuck out of the big toe on his left foot, his mother Caroline Flynn recalled. 'I was freaking out. I was scared,' Flynn told The Boston Herald, noting how 'there was leftover blood in that needle'. He was rushed to the emergency room at nearby Boston Medical Center where he underwent extensive blood testing, got an x-ray, and was prescribed multiple anti-HIV preventative medicines, which he reportedly 'wasn't able to tolerate'. After a month of panic, Flynn finally got some 'relief' on Wednesday when doctors informed her that her son's 'blood tests came back negative' for HIV and hepatitis. Flynn, who is urging Massachusetts lawmakers to address the crippling opioid crisis, has now heartbreakingly shared how her son mistook the drug addicts that stagger through Boston as 'zombies'. 'We were sitting down at McDonald's and he looked out the window and said, "Look Mom, zombies!",' Flynn told the newspaper. Caroline Flynn (pictured holding one of her two children) says her four-year-old son suffered a terrifying HIV scare after he was pricked in the foot by a dirty hypodermic needle that had been discarded in a South Boston park Drug addicts stumble through Boston's city parks and streets, and are known to openly shoot up in public. Drug users are pictured smoking and shooting up at the intersection of Atkinson and Southampton Street in the South Boston neighborhood She says her son watched as addicts stumbled around public streets, claiming that some were even openly shooting up. He witnessed visibly intoxicated people pushing rusty wheelchairs and old shopping carts around. Others rode around on city-operated rental bicycles, she claimed. Flynn has called on legislators to urgently take action, telling the newspaper how 'something needs to be done' to combat the drugs epidemic. The mother even suggested that anyone caught shooting up in public be arrested and forced to undergo addiction treatment. Boston's raging drug problem has been in the spotlight after residents lashed out at Democrat Mayor Michelle Wu, blaming her policies that allegedly enable drug use. Locals claim Wu's controversial decision to hand out free crack pipe syringes and other paraphernalia to addicts in 2022 has helped fuel the problems. While her administration pitched the move as 'harm reduction,' critics have countered that all she's done is increase the permissiveness of public drug use in Boston. Massachusetts state Sen. Nick Collins is among those pushing for a crackdown on the city's open-air drug markets and has branded the Flynn family's case as 'collateral damage caused by the ongoing crisis at Mass and Cass'. A pair of homeless men are seen passed out near the The Embrace monument in Boston Common, as children walk by The homelessness crisis has plagued downtown Boston for many years, as people with nowhere to go are regularly seen sleeping on city streets The intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, known as 'Mass and Cass,' is notorious for open-air drug usage. Wu has tried to clear out the crime-ridden area, dubbed 'Methadone Mile', by trying to take down tent encampments. But instead of isolating the drug crisis, it has amplified and spread - further plaguing the historic city. Flynn's son stepped on a needle in park near the corner of Columbia Road and Mercer Street, less than two miles away from the so-called Methadone Mile. 'Nobody should have to worry about stepping on a needle in a public park,' Collins told the Herald, adding that we 'owe it to the boy' to intervene. The senator called for a reform of the city's public health policies, as well as protocols on civil interventions and discharge policies. Residents from across Boston have complained that the Mass and Cass crackdown has led to 'out of control' spillover into their neighborhoods. The streets of once-pristine communities, including ritzy Beacon Hill where the median housing price is $2.8million, have been left littered with dangerous needles. A clean-up crew supported by the Newmarket Business Improvement District has estimated they pick up about 1,000 needles a day across Boston. The intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, (pictured) known as 'Mass and Cass,' is notorious for open-air drug usage Wu's office, in a statement issued to the newspaper Thursday morning, reiterated that outdoor drug use is 'illegal and unacceptable'. The mayor's office said they are using 'active and continuous police enforcement' in drug-stricken areas and working to 'transition individuals into recovery programs'. The city is said to be focused on needle pickup and has expanded working hours for its needle collection teams. Boston has also ended its outdoor and weekend syringe exchange. 'No family should have to worry about their childrens safety playing outside,' the statement added. Daily Mail has approached the mayor's office for further comment. Donald Trump's pick to the lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics is the latest nominee facing a riptide of unflattering reports ahead of a potentially precarious confirmation fight. Video of the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot first reported by NBC News shows that Trump's BLA nominee, E.J. Antoni, was present outside the U.S. Capitol that day. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers tells the Daily Mail that Antoni was merely a 'bystander' who did not 'engage in anything inappropriate or illegal.' Knives are out for the longtime BLS critic and Project 2025 contributor, with opposition research surfacing before Antoni has even registered on most lawmakers' radar. Trump announced his nomination of the 'highly respected economist' as the next Labor Statistics commissioner on Monday, claiming he would bring honesty and accuracy to the position. It came just ten days after Trump fired former BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer on August 1. He blamed McEntarfer for a less-favorable-than-expected July jobs report and claimed she was manipulating figures for political reasons despite a lack of evidence and multiple experts noting that numbers are often adjusted to reflect accuracy after initial findings. Donald Trump's latest pick, E.J. Antoni (pictured in red), was spotted outside the Capitol in archived and published footage of the January 6, 2021 'stop the steal' rally Trump on Monday announced his nomination of the 'highly respected economist' Antoni to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics Sen. Bill Cassidy, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, plans to meet with Antoni when back from recess. Antoni must earn a vote from the Louisiana senator's committee to make it to the Senate floor for confirmation. 'BLS's years-long failure to produce reliable data especially when that data has broad market implications in unacceptable,' a spokesperson for Cassidy told the Daily Mail. 'We need a BLS Commissioner committed to producing accurate, unbiased economic information to the American people.' They added: 'Chairman Cassidy looks forward to meeting with Dr. Antoni to discuss how he will accomplish this.' Regardless of the reasoning over McEntarfer ouster, Antoni represents the latest nominee whose footing for confirmation appears to be shaky with the latest revelations about his appearance at the January 6 rally. 'These pictures show EJ Antoni, a bystander to the events of January 6th, observing and then leaving the Capital area,' assistant White House Press Secretary Taylor Rogers said in a statement on the images that resurfaced. 'EJ was in town for meetings, and it is wrong and defamatory to suggest EJ engaged in anything inappropriate or illegal.' Antoni was seen during the 'stop the steal' rally in Washington, D.C. on the west side of the Capitol in a video archived from social media site Parler. He also appears in surveillance footage from that day that the Republican-led Committee on House Administration Subcommittee on Oversight published. Antoni represents the latest controversial pick by Trump as he faces an onslaught of attacks and public attempts to discredit him before the Senate comes back into session A White House official told the Daily Mail that Antoni was in Washington, D.C. on January 6, 2021 for in-person meetings with his employer just blocks away from the Capitol. They claim that Antoni saw coverage of what was happening at the Capitol and 'out of curiosity' went to check it out. The official insists that Antoni did not cross any barricades or participate in the demonstrations at the Capitol, which is corroborated by the footage that shows him walking away from the rally. Multiple White House insiders have divulged to the Daily Mail the internal frustration over vetting for Trump's nominees. And with moderate Republicans already opposing other nominees and Trump initiatives, it's not out of the question that Antoni's confirmation could fail even with a GOP majority in the Senate. It's possible that Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine and Thom Tillis of North Carolina could oppose the latest controversial pick though none of the moderates immediately responded to the Daily Mail's request for comment on Antoni's nomination. A French town has been forced to axe an open air-screening of Greta Gerwig's Barbie after a group of residents threatened to interfere with the event that they claimed 'promoted' homosexuality. The last minute cancellation of the annual event, which was due to take place last Friday in the Parisian suburb of Noisy-le-Sec, has since sparked a political debate over censorship. Mayor Olivier Sarrabeyrouse issued a press release this week to explain why the screening of the highly regarded feminist film was scrapped, claiming that 'an extreme minority of thugs, who, no doubt, had not seen the film, [had] transformed a simple free open-air cinema screening open to all into a violent opposition movement'. 'They said that it advocates homosexuality and that it is an attack on the integrity of women,' he said, recalling that 'Barbie is a film for all audiences, which has never been banned in France'. 'I deplore the fact that a small group from the neighborhood mobilized its energy under pressure from an individual to prevent the screening of this film,' he went on to say. The mayor said a group of some 10 to 15 individuals 'surrounded the offices' and threatened to 'take everything down and put an end to your session'. The cancellation of the screening has sparked political outrage, with political figures blaming the mayor for succumbing to censorship, but the background of those who objected to the film is not known. 'Algeria, Lebanon, Kuwait, and today Noisy-le-Sec in [France] censor #Barbie... the [mayor] submits to pressures from an 'aggressive group'! Translation: Islamist religious fundamentalists exert strong and effective social control!', wrote MP Valerie Boyer on X. But the mayor clapped back at the politician, telling French radio station RTL today: 'I never gave in'. A French town has been forced to axe an open air-screening of Greta Gerwig's Barbie after a group of residents threatened to interfere with the event Picture shows a general view of the Parisian suburb of Noisy-Le-Sec The film was banned in many Muslim countries over the perception that it promoted homosexuality, French media notes 'I'm mayor, and I'm responsible for the safety of both public service employees and the population. I think all my fellow mayors, regardless of their political affiliation, would have made the same decision'. 'I condemn this kind of moral censorship, but I also condemn this exploitation,' he added, noting that 'transphobia and homophobia are not reserved for a section of the population' and that 'the extreme right and the right have been fighting these battles for years.' The film was banned in many Muslim countries over the perception that it promoted homosexuality, French media notes. The mayor of Noisy-Le-Sec, a suburb of Paris with a large North African community, did not identify the 'aggressive' group who made the threat. According to the mayor, several municipal workers received violent threats from the group of 'hooligans' who vowed to stop the screening and destroy equipment. 'These threats were motivated by fallacious arguments, reflecting obscurantism and fundamentalism instrumentalised for political ends.' The mayor also commented on how the film had 'provoked a reaction from the most reactionary and conservative ideologues, particularly on the far right, by provoking yet another moral panic.' Paris police chief Laurent Nunez announced today that he had taken legal action in light of the cancellation. 'After learning of this deprogramming and that the facts that led to it are based on community withdrawal and separatism, are contrary to the foundations of our Republic and are likely to be subject to criminal prosecution, I have today referred the matter to the courts, in agreement with the Minister of State, Minister of the Interior,' he wrote on X. A man allegedly 'attacked' two children in an Aldi supermarket, as police today issued CCTV of a couple who could 'help with their enquiries'. Greater Manchester Police issued an appeal for witness to the incident, which happened at Aldi in King Street in Leigh, Wigan on August 6. A CCTV grab issued by the force shows a man pushing a pram, with a woman just steps behind him with a packed trolley. Police believe they may have information about the incident in which a man reportedly became 'aggressive' and assaulted the youngsters. Greater Manchester Police have issued CCTV of a couple who could 'help with their enquiries' after a man allegedly 'attacked' two children in a supermarket on August 6 A CCTV grab issued by the force shows a man pushing a pram, with a woman just steps behind him with a packed trolley The incident reportedly occurred at this Aldi in King Street in Leigh, Wigan An appeal from the police said: 'At 12.50pm on Wednesday, 6 August, an incident appears to have occurred whereby a male is alleged to been aggressive and assaulted two children. 'While the children did not received injuries, the police would like to talk to the two people pictured, as it is believed that they could help with their enquiries. 'If you were in the store and witnessed the incident then please do come forward.' Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101, call 07977373604, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. With her neat appearance and diminutive frame, 75-year-old Rose Docherty could hardly be accused of posing a physical threat. Yet the grandmother-of-two earlier this year became the first person to be arrested for influencing women with her beliefs within 200 metres of a Scottish abortion clinic. Ms Docherty fell foul of the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) (Scotland) Act 2024 in February by quietly holding a sign which read coercion is a crime, here to talk, only if you want within a buffer zone outside Glasgows Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. The case lit the social media touchpaper, igniting the debate over whether the no-go zones effectively protect women from intimidation outside of abortion clinics, as intended - or if they are a symptom of a perceived crackdown on freedom of speech, expression and beliefs. It even drew international attention, and prompted a US State Department to call on the SNP to protect the principle of freedom of expression. Now, after a months-long battle for justice, Ms Docherty has emerged victorious after Scottish prosecutors dropped the charges against her. Today, speaking for the first time since her arrest, she said: This is a victory not just for me, but for everyone in Scotland who believes we should be free to hold a peaceful conversation. In an exclusive interview with The Daily Mail, she added: Im relieved that common sense has prevailed - of course, offering consensual, compassionate conversation is not a crime, and I should never have been arrested for this activity. Charges have been dropped against Rose Docherty, who was arrested for holding a banner within a buffer zone outside Glasgows Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Ms Docherty was first person in Scotland to be arrested under the nation's abortion buffer zones law I stood with love and compassion, ready to listen to anyone who wanted to talk. My sign made that clear. Our society can only benefit from more people being ready and open to listen and chat. Im relieved at the decision of the Procurator Fiscal, but I do feel the process has been somewhat punishing in and of itself - waiting for months on end as to whether I could face court, or worse, just for standing peacefully. The buffer zone legislation, brought forward by Scottish Green MSP Gillian Mackay and implemented in September 2024, forbids anti-abortion demonstrations from taking place within 200 metres of Scottish clinics where terminations are carried out. Ms Docherty was the first to fall foul of it on February 19 after she held a sign, which offered passers-by the option to talk to her, within 200m of the QEUH maternity building. Smartphone footage taken of the incident shows the pensioner being questioned by two police officers. Wrapped up in a sheepskin hat, leather gloves and a mustard yellow scarf, the Glasgow-based grandmother attempted to explain her reason for being there. Yet officers said she had broken the law, handcuffed her, walked her to a waiting police car and bundled her into the backseats. Mrs Docherty told how she was driven to a local police station where she was kept for around 15 minutes in a holding bay before she was asked a series of questions. She was then searched, photographed and required to provide DNA samples, she said, as well as provide a copy of her fingerprint. After a short time she was told that a report would be sent to the Procurator Fiscal and that she would hear of their decision by letter. She was released at around 5pm that evening, she said. Architect of the buffer zone law, Ms Mackay, reacted with glee at the pensioners arrest, and described Mrs Dochertys actions as a kind of intimidation [that] has no place in a modern or progressive Scotland. Yet, The US Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor - a government state department - issued a stark warning in light of the action, releasing a statement online which read: Police in Scotland arrested a woman holding a sign offering to talk to people in a restricted buffer zone. Freedom of expression needs to be protected. We call on governments, whether in Scotland or around the world, to respect freedom of expression for all. At a security conference in Munich prior to her arrest, Vice President JD Vance - who is currently on holiday in Scotland - had already raised concerns about the Scottish buffer zone laws and the future of freedom of speech in the UK. Today, Ms Docherty has accused the authorities of attempting to impose the crime of thinking on the Scottish public. And she has insisted that she was attempting to reach out to those suffering at the hands of controlling domestic abusers. She said: The buffer zone law bans influence of a persons decision to access an abortion facility, but its quite clear to many that silent prayer, or an offer of consensual conversation, cannot possibly be considered influence. Yet I was arrested under the law for standing peacefully, just being available to chat. That cant be right. I found it especially peculiar that despite the fact that my sign stated that I was here to talk to anyone, the police repeatedly accused me of holding a silent vigil, adding: Almost as if they wanted to replicate the thoughtcrime prosecutions that have taken place in England - a reference to the conviction of British Army veteran Adam Smith-Connor for praying outside an abortion facility south of the border. Ms Docherty said: On the incident in question, I wasnt there to pray but to be available for conversation if anyone wanted to talk. I held a placard being clear about that. She continued: Coercion can come at the hands of an abusive partner, pressure from parents, friends, or in various different forms. No matter our ideological persuasions, we can all agree that nobody should be pushed into any serious and life-changing decision. Everyone has the right to a consensual conversation. I simply made myself available for a chat, should anybody like to approach me and speak about any matter on their mind. I didnt breach the buffer zone I didnt harass, intimidate, or even seek to influence anyone. I simply stood there, available to speak with love and compassion. Yesterday, a spokesperson for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service said that after careful consideration it had been decided that there should be no further action taken at this time. They added: The Crown reserves the right to take proceedings in relation to this incident in the future. Reflecting on her ordeal, Ms Docherty did not rule out holding her sign again. She said: Whatever happens in future, whether I choose to engage in the same activity or not, Im comforted that the authorities eventually did see sense, and that we do have some measure of free speech in this country - not only for myself, but for anyone who may have chosen to take up my offer and chat with me. Lorcan Price, Irish Barrister and Legal Counsel for Christian organisation ADF International, which has supported Ms Dochertys case, said: No one should fear arrest for offering a consensual conversation. Roses case is a stark example of how buffer zone laws can be weaponised to silence peaceful expression. We are relieved that common sense has prevailed, but the fact that Rose was arrested and threatened with prosecution shows the urgent need to protect fundamental freedoms in Scotland. Former president Joe Biden's son Hunter reacted strongly to a legal threat from First Lady Melania Trump, publishing an expletive-laden video on YouTube in response to her demand for an apology and retraction. Hunter made the false claim that Melania Trump was introduced to President Donald Trump by convicted sex offender and pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, citing a Daily Beast report sourced to author Michael Wolff. The Daily Beast report was retracted with an apology, but Hunter still repeated the claim in an interview with the Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan podcast. 'They knew each other well, they spent an enormous amount of time together,' the former president's son 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.' Mrs. Trump's lawyer threatened to sue Hunter Biden for $1 billion unless they 'immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging and inflammatory statements made about Mrs. Trump.' But Hunter Biden was not interested in an apology, sharing his public reaction on Callaghans show. 'Fu*k that. That's not going to happen,' Biden replied, after Callaghan showed him a copy of the letter. The logo on Hunter Biden's hat featured a logo with three arrows inside a circle. The symbol is similar to that of the Iron Front resistance to the Nazi party in Wrold War II era Germany. Anti-Trump groups like Antifa have adopted the symbol as their own. Biden wore a cap bearing a symbol with striking similarities to the Three Arrows donned by far-left extremists and anti-fascists 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 Hunter Biden defended his comments, citing reporting from Wolff's book, and a 2019 story from the New York Times that reported Epstein was 'claiming to people that he was the one who introduced Mr. Trump to his third wife, Melania Trump.' 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 Digital. The letter was dated August 6 and gave the younger Biden until August 7 to comply. Biden defied the lawsuit threat and vowed to take the Trumps to court, even as he estimated the lawsuit would probably cost 'millions' of dollars. If they want to go through the process, then they know its going to cost them an enormous amount of money to do it, Biden said. We gotta figure out how were going to pay for it. The specific episode of Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan in question remains on YouTube with 1.3 million views. '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.' 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 'You are on notice,' Brito concluded in his letter. 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. An elderly couple who spent $22,000 on a Viking River Cruise were left devastated after their 'trip of a lifetime' was plagued by disease, gnats and broken air conditioning. John and Rosemary Kaasa were looking forward to their 15-day voyage across Europe, especially after he recently recovered from a serious health scare. But after paying more than $11,000 each, the couple from Roswell - about 40 minutes outside of Atlanta, Georgia - went through a hellish experience. In the midst of a European heat wave, the much-needed air conditioning system stopped working on their boat. That major issue then led to another one - gnats swarming the area. 'They said, "dont open your door, your sliding door, because youll get gnats in,"' Rosemary, 77, told WSB-TV. After spending five grueling days in a hot boat, the couple and other passengers were frantically evacuated to another ship because of low water levels on the river. But the air conditioning did not work on the new boat either, leaving them to sit in a room that reached approximately 90F, the couple recalled. John and Rosemary Kaasa had a horrible experience on their recent vacation onboard a Viking River Cruise across Europe. (Pictured: Stock image of Viking ship) The Georgia couple are seen holed up in their cabin room after getting severely sick onboard 'It was 87 degrees in our cabin when we got there,' John, 78, said. While dealing with the faulty air conditioning, the couple soon realized their cabin ceiling was leaking, prompting them and others to speak up. 'I had to hold Rosemary down,' John said of his wife. 'He did. At one point, he's like, "Sit down",' she said. 'I had more to say. I was not happy.' Soon after complaining to the captain, the Kaasas were hit with a horrible sickness that left bedridden for the rest of their trip. John even recalled hearing other passengers coughing all throughout the ship. 'There was no escaping it. It was miserable,' he said. 'Id walk up and down the hall, and all you could hear was people coughing one room after another.' To make matters worse, the husband and wife were both diagnosed with bronchitis when they got back home, Rosemary said. They even had to evacuate their initial ship for another due to low water levels on the river. (Pictured: Passengers evacuating the ship) The couple (pictured) signed a non-disclosure agreement with the cruise line, but still remain 'very disappointed' After the horrid experience, she decided she wasn't just going to let the cruise company get away with what happened. Rosemary, a volunteer with the local station's Consumer Action Center, quickly remembered advice Clark Howard, a local advisor, gave her. 'From Clark, I've learned that you go to the CEO. So I sent him a letter,' she explained. Initially, they were offered only $1,000 toward a future cruise, but Howard's advice proved valuable as Rosemary persisted. 'You complain everywhere you can, hope that at some point they decide its better just to get this person to go away,' Howard told the outlet. Viking River Cruises only agreed to resolve the issue with the couple after WSB-TV reached out, per the outlet. It remains unclear what the resolution was as they signed a non-disclosure agreement with the company. Still, the Kaasas feel very upset about what they endured. 'Im terribly No, Im beyond being angry. Im just very, very disappointed,' John said. Daily Mail contacted Viking River Cruises for comment. Tibetan antelopes start homebound migration People's Daily Online) 13:16, August 14, 2025 Tibetan antelopes move across the Qinghai-Xizang highway at the Wudaoliang protection station in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province. (Photo courtesy of the Hoh Xil management office) At 11:40 a.m. on July 29, the first flock of 45 Tibetan antelopes was spotted returning to their natural habitat after giving birth near Zonag Lake in the heart of Hoh Xil, a nature reserve in northwest China's Qinghai Province, according to staff at the Wudaoliang protection station of the Hoh Xil management office under the Sanjiangyuan National Park administration. The herd crossed the Qinghai-Xizang Highway, marking the start of their annual homeward migration after the calving season. To safeguard the animals during this critical period, the Hoh Xil management office has intensified patrols and monitoring in key migration zones. When antelopes gathered along the highway, staff from the Wudaoliang protection station enforced temporary traffic controlshalting vehicles and banning horn useto reduce disturbance, while also conducting headcounts of the migrating antelopes. This year's migration began 13 days later than last year, but the first group contained 24 more antelopes than the initial group in 2024. The Tibetan antelope migration is considered one of the world's most breathtaking migrations of hoofed animals. Each year from May to July, female antelopes from Qinghai's Sanjiangyuan, the Altun Mountains in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, and Changtang in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region travel to Zonag Lake in Hoh Xil to give birth. From late July to early August, mothers set out on the return trip with their offspring. Under first-class state protection in China, the Tibetan antelope is a flagship species of Hoh Xil in Sanjiangyuan National Park. Thanks to consistent law enforcement and stringent conservation measures, there has been no poaching gunfire in Hoh Xil since 2009, and the population of the species has now surpassed 70,000 in the Hoh Xil section of the national park. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Former South Australian opposition leader David Speirs has suffered another embarrassing setback, being refused a liquor licence for his own charity event. The 40-year-old retired from politics after a video surfaced online appearing to show him snorting a white substance. Thursday night's fundraiser, held at the Marino Community Hall south-east of Adelaide's CBD, was organised to support Speirs' upcoming walk along the Kokoda Track later this month. Proceeds are going to two men's mental health charities, Breakthrough Mental Health Foundation and The Man Cave. The event was promoted as an 'evening of delicious paella, fine wines, and great jazz', but no wine could be served. Spiers pleaded guilty to two counts of supplying a controlled substance to another person on separate occasions in August last year. His lawyer had urged the court not to record a conviction, arguing it would prevent him from travelling overseas. But the Adelaide Magistrates Court fined him $9,000, recorded two convictions, and ordered him to complete 37-and-a-half hours of community service. David Spiers' fundraising event poster which was shared to attendees The conviction is why Spiers was unable to secure the licence. Under the Liquor Licensing Act, 'a person is not a fit and proper person to hold a licence if the person has been found guilty or convicted of an offence'. This also includes a 'controlled drug'. A South Australian government spokesperson confirmed to The Advertiser that they would not have granted the request had Spiers requested. 'On 14 August Mr Speirs contacted our CBS (Consumer Business Service) seeking advice on a short term liquor licence for the event he was planning that same evening,' the spokesperson said. 'He was advised of the fit and proper person requirements under the Liquor Licence Act. 'Mr Speirs advised CBS he would not be submitting an application.' The event still went ahead, and did make good on the promise of jazz music, with attendees instead served coffee as a beverage option. David Spiers (pictured) is set to walk the Kokoda Trail to raise funds to charity this month Spiers was convicted over two counts of supplying a controlled substance in 2024 Spier's posted on social media saying the event was a success. 'What an incredible night! The room was buzzing and it was amazing to see so many people coming together for such an important cause. Nights like this remind us how powerful community really is,' he wrote. Tickets to the event cost $70, or $55 for concessions. So far Spiers has raised more than $6,200 towards his $10,000 goal, according to his fundraising page. On the page, Spiers mentions his own mental health struggles, which he faced following the end of his time as SA Liberal leader. 'Life can be real tough sometimes. Things happen which are sometimes within our control and sometimes outside of our control and often a bit of both,' he said. 'This can lead people to dark and scary places. I know. I've been there. Some days I still find myself there. But Im doing well overall thanks to the incredible support I've had from across our community'. Earlier this week, reports emerged that Speirs is weighing a political comeback, with plans to run as an Independent in the 2026 South Australian election. It is understood his frustration over the states ongoing algal bloom crisis, which has killed more than 400 marine species, is a key factor driving his potential return. A neighbor from hell called the police 'scum' as he was arrested for repeatedly blasting an ear-splitting horn from the roof of his house. The Daily Mail captured the dramatic arrest of Gary Boyadzhyan, 50, outside his property on Peach Avenue in Van Nuys, a neighborhood of Los Angeles, on Wednesday evening. Wearing a white polo shirt and olive-colored pants, he began swearing and yelling after being put in handcuffs by Los Angeles Police Department officers shortly after 7pm. They could be heard telling him that he was being arrested for disturbing the peace with the horn. He yelled back: 'What peace? Tell me what peace I'm disturbing? You guys are scum!' The suspect was then driven in a squad car approximately two miles to Van Nuys police station. Captain Christopher Zine, Van Nuys Area Commanding Officer, confirmed to the Daily Mail exclusively that Boyadzhyan was arrested for disturbing the peace. Gary Boyadzhyan was arrested on Wednesday, August 13, after months of putting his neighbors through hell by blasting a train-like horn from his home Los Angeles Police Department officers took 50-year-old Boyadzhyan into custody at his two-bedroom Van Nuys home Zine said the department will continue to monitor the excessive noise and train horns at the 6600 block of Peach Avenue. We are also in contact with the City Attorneys Office, as well as other City and Department entities to effectively address both the administrative and criminal aspects of this incident. Boyadzhyan has been firing off the horn up to three times a day. Minutes before his arrest, the car mechanic, who drives a Porsche Cayenne SUV, told the Daily Mail he was using the horn to get law enforcement's attention because the father of an ex-girlfriend was threatening him. The suspect began shouting, swearing and hurling abuse at police officers during the arrest The Daily Mail obtained exclusive photos of police arriving at Boyadzhyan's home to arrest him The home in Van Nuys where Boyadzhyan lives Train-like horns, shown attached to a tree in Boyadzhyan's backyard, have been making life miserable for neighbors 'I want justice served, he said, speaking outside his two-bedroom, two-bathroom house. He added he was involved in an ongoing dispute with the father of a woman he dated decades ago. Jim Phipps (right) and his wife Bernarda, both 62, live opposite Boyadzhyan and have endured the ear-splitting disturbances for months LAPD Captain Christopher Zine told the Daily Mail Boyadzhyan was arrested for disturbing the peace Of the noise created by the horns attached to a tree in his backyard, Boyadzhyan said he would continue to blast them until authorities take action to help him. I do apologize for the neighbors, he added. I'm sincerely sorry i would be uncomfortable too. The noise is really loud but my life is in danger. I'm not paranoid, I'm not crazy I'm not psycho. Boyadzhyan also claimed that he has an 18-year-old daughter who was taken away from him by authorities and has not seen since 2013. The Daily Mail is choosing not to name his daughter or the man he accused of threatening him. Goarik Boyadzhyan, 72, told the Daily Mail of her son: Because of his depression he doesnt understand what he's doing' Boyadzhyan told the Daily Mail that he was involved in an on-going dispute with the father of a woman he dated decades ago Boyadzhyan talks with a Daily Mail reporter shortly before his arrest on August 13 Family members arrived at the Boyadzhyans home shortly after his arrest. His mother told the Daily Mail he was suffering from major depression.' Goarik Boyadzhyan, 72, said the condition worsened after a girlfriend her son dated for six years broke up with him son at the end of last year. Mrs Boyadzhyan was already heading to his home to talk with him about seeing a doctor and to discuss taking medication. She said she was surprised to hear of his arrest from officers on scene when she arrived shortly after. Because of his depression he doesnt understand what he's doing, she added. Neighbor Bob Donovan, 77, said of the daily noise disturbance which has been disturbing the area for months: I've known Gary for many, many years. I always got along very well with him. 'He was a good guy but he's really lost it in the last five or six years. Hes become worse in the last two years. Its really bad. He doesn't seem to be cognizant and aware of his surroundings. He does strange things. The guy will work on a car or mow his lawn at 2 a.m. in the morning. He does it to irritate the neighbors. He says it's to bring attention to his plight. Hes nuts. Jim Phipps, 62, lives opposite Boyadzhyan with his wife, Bernarda, also 62. The couple have endured the disturbances along with the rest of the street. He said the horns are set off daily like clockwork which he described as a total pain in the a**. Vladimir Putin has praised Donald Trump for his administration's 'energetic and sincere efforts' to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine, ahead of their face-to-face meeting in Alaska. The two leaders are set to meet tomorrow at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska's largest military base, to discuss how to bring Putin's invasion of Ukraine to an end. In a short video released by the Kremlin, the Russian despot said Trump's administration was making 'quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities' and to 'reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict.' Putin also suggested agreements could be reached with the US 'in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons at the next stage.' Trump was frostier in his comments, telling reporters that Russia would face 'very severe consequences' if Putin does not agree to stop the war against Ukraine after Friday's meeting. Despite the pivotal meeting's theme surrounding Ukraine's fate, leader Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited. Instead, he was welcomed to London by UK prime minister Keir Starmer. The two embraced warmly outside Starmer's offices at 10 Downing Street without making any comments. Around an hour later, Starmer walked Zelensky back to his waiting car, and the two leaders shared another embrace as the Ukrainian president departed. Emergency services personnel work to extinguish a fire following a Russian attack in the Kharkiv region, Ukraine, July 5, 2025 Ukrainian soldiers from air-defence unit of 59th brigade fire at Russian strike drones in Dnipropetrovsk region, Ukraine, Sunday, Aug. 10, 2025 Vladimir Putin has praised Donald Trump (pictured) for his administration's 'energetic and sincere efforts' to end the Russian invasion of Ukraine Vladimir Putin (pictured) also suggested agreements could be reached with the US 'in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons at the next stage' Zelensky's trip to the British capital came a day after he took part in virtual meetings from Berlin with US President Donald Trump and the leaders of several European countries. Those leaders said Trump had assured them he would make a priority of trying to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine when he meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday in Anchorage. Both Zelensky and the Europeans have worried the bilateral US-Russia summit would leave them and their interests sidelined, and that any conclusions reached could favor Moscow and leave Ukraine and Europe's future security in jeopardy. Yet some of those leaders, like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron, praised Wednesday's video conference with Trump as constructive. And despite Friday's meeting, new satellite images have revealed that Russia is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile. Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya, a remote archipelago in the Barents Sea. The pictures, taken in recent weeks by commercial satellite firm Planet Labs, reveal a surge in personnel, equipment, ships and aircraft linked to earlier tests of the 9M730 Burevestnik, known to NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. A Western security source has also verified that Russia is preparing a Burevestnik launch, supporting the findings by Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth, of the CNA research and analysis organisation. Lewis told Reuters that it could happen this week, which could potentially overshadow the planned Putin-Trump summit in Alaska. Putin has previously described the Burevestnik as 'invincible' to current and future missile defences, claiming it has almost unlimited range. The development of the missiles has become a prime focus for Putin, especially after Trump revealed what he called the US Golden Dome missile in January, according to experts. However, some specialists are sceptical that it can truly evade defence systems or give Russia extra capabilities it does not already possess. There are also concerns that the missile could release dangerous radiation along its route. Russia is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile on the eve of Vladimir Putin's summit with Donald Trump Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya The revelation comes after the US president warned Putin of 'severe consequences' if the war continues Putin and Trump are set to meet in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine Researchers believe the test would have been scheduled long before the summit was announced. But they say Putin could have slowed or halted visible preparations to demonstrate that he was open to ending the war in Ukraine and restarting arms control talks with Washington. The Burevestnik does not have a stellar track record, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, with just two partial successes in 13 known tests. Lewis and Eveleth say Planet Labs images taken since late July show stacks of shipping containers, more equipment and more personnel arriving at the site. Lewis said two aircraft equipped to collect test data have been parked at Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July, both carrying saucer-shaped radar domes. He also noted the presence of at least five ships linked to past tests, and said ship-tracking site VesselFinder.com showed a sixth vessel, the Teriberka cargo ship, heading towards Novaya Zemlya this week. Reuters confirmed the vessel's course but could not independently verify the rest of the findings. The researchers say they began monitoring Pankovo in July and increased scrutiny after Russia issued a maritime warning on August 6 for the period between August 9 and 12. Lewis said two aircraft equipped to collect test data have been parked at Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July, both carrying saucer-shaped radar domes The movement of equipment since mid July has led experts to believe that Putin test the missiles this week Some experts have said Putin could have postponed the tests if he wanted to Notices on the US Federal Aviation Administration's system suggested a possible launch window from August 9 to 22. Norway's military told Reuters the Barents Sea is a 'prime location for Russian missile tests' and that warnings pointed to 'preparations for test activities', though it would not confirm the type of weapon. In late July, Eveleth noticed a large shelter protecting the launcher being moved back and forth, which he called 'very clear evidence' of an upcoming launch. Lewis provided August 7 images showing the launcher cover, stacks of containers, a crane and a helicopter. 'It's full steam ahead,' he said. The revelation comes after Trump warned 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. 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 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'. 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 the Ukrainian president. It is hoped that this second summit would take place in a neutral European country. Yesterday, 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. Ukrainian drones hit Rosneft oil depot in Sochi, sparking massive fire and explosions near airport on August 3, 2025 JD Vance yesterday 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' Your browser does not support iframes. 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. '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'. 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 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. 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.' One of the alleged aggressors in the viral Cincinnati brawl has been hit with a federal charge, according to authorities. Montianez Merriweather, 34, was accused of being the 'catalyst' in the July 26 beating in downtown Cincinnati that left six people injured and caused widespread outrage on social media. The suspect was indicted by a grand jury with illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon, according to the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Ohio. Prosecutors say Merriweather was illegally carrying a 9mm pistol on July 2. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted. 'There is no place for violence in our communities,' said US Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II. 'Those who commit violent acts can expect to be scrutinized and they will be held accountable for violations of federal criminal law.' Montianez Merriweather, 34, was hit with a federal gun charge after being accused of being the 'catalyst' in a viral brawl in Cincinnati The woman involved in the brawl, known only as Holly, is seen here on the ground following the horrific attack Both sides of Holly's face were extremely bruised following the assault, with her right eye a dark shade of purple and almost closed over due to the swelling Merriweather was initially charged with aggravated assault over the brawl. A total of seven people have been charged in connection with the filmed melee. The brawl sparked massive outrage after horror images emerged of a female victim with black eyes and a swollen, bruised face. In shocking footage of the fight, a man in a white t-shirt was shoved to the ground and beaten by two men as other members of the crowd jeered and joined in. The gang beat the man for nearly a minute as he lay in the middle of the street, seemingly stepping on his head multiple times. When the barrage of attacks temporarily stopped, he was seen attempting to stand - but immediately fell over in apparent disorientation. A woman in a black dress rushed to his aid, but was attacked by the crowd, suffering two blows to the face. The impact caused her to fall, with her head slamming onto the pavement. Blood spewed from her mouth. Outside of court, two relatives of fellow suspect, 34-year-old Montianez Merriweather, said the race of the suspects and victims had catapulted the case to national attention Jermaine Matthews was also charged with aggravated riot and assault in connection with the brawl The woman, identified only as Holly, said that police 'acted nonchalant' when they arrived at the scene and did not call for backup or an ambulance. She defended 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.' After his arrest, two relatives of Merriweather told WLWT that the race of the victims had catapulted the case to national attention. 'If it was an African American woman who got knocked out... We wouldn't have been going through all this,' one of the women said. Another woman, believed to be Merriweather's mother Clarissa, said her son is an honor roll student with 'a biracial child' as she denied he was racist. 'He's not a racist,' she said. 'It wasn't like they're thugs... these Russians was walking down the street and on the video he said "you wanna mess with these Russians?"' 'He smacked the first guy... my child is in school, he has five kids, he's on the B honor roll in school.' Police have described Merriweather as the 'catalyst' for the alleged 'coordinated attack.' Nicola Sturgeon has said she could fall for a man or a woman as she explained why she doesn't see her sexuality as 'binary'. The former Scottish first minister said she was 'not sticking any labels' on her sexual orientation as she was quizzed about a passage in her newly-published memoir. In the book, titled Frankly, Ms Sturgeon addressed 'wild stories' about her having a 'torrid lesbian affair' with a French diplomat. The ex-SNP leader hit out at 'blatant homophobia at the heart of the 'story'', but added 'the nature of the insult itself was water off a duck's back'. She wrote that, despite long-term relationships with men having accounted for more than 30 years of her life, she 'never considered' her sexuality to be 'binary'. In January, Ms Sturgeon announced she had separated from her husband, the former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, after nearly 14-and-a-half years of marriage. Addressing the comments about sexuality in her book during an interview with Times Radio, Ms Sturgeon was asked if this meant she could fall for a woman or a man. 'I believe that, yes,' the 55-year-old replied. That's how I see life and the world.' Nicola Sturgeon has said she could fall for a man or a woman as she explained why she doesn't see her sexuality as 'binary' In January, Ms Sturgeon announced she had separated from her husband, the former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell (pictured in 2016), after nearly 14-and-a-half years of marriage In her book, titled Frankly, Ms Sturgeon addresses 'wild stories' about her having a 'torrid lesbian affair' with a French diplomat Ms Sturgeon added: 'I'm not making any great revelation, I'm not sticking any labels on it. I guess what I'm saying is that's how I see the world. 'And it would have been dishonest to say it's how I see the world in relation to other people, but not in relation to myself. I don't think sexuality is binary.' During her string of TV and radio interviews to mark the publication of her memoir, Ms Sturgeon had previously refused to speculate about her future love life. Asked by ITV News if she might possibly enter into a relationship with a woman, she replied: 'Look, I'm just out of a marriage. 'So I'm not rushing into a relationship with anyone, anytime soon. I'm enjoying being my own person for a while.' Pressed on whether she would rule it out, Ms Sturgeon added: 'I'm not contemplating, you know, sort of anything of that nature. I'm just enjoying life. 'That's part of the answer to that question. The other part of the answer is, in future, I possibly want to choose to have any relationships I happen to be in as private matters.' Ms Sturgeon was arrested in June 2023 and questioned by police as part of the investigation into SNP finances, but has now been formally cleared. Mr Murrell has appeared in court charged with alleged embezzlement. Ms Sturgeon is preparing to step down as an MSP at next May's Holyrood elections, bringing to an end a 27-year spell in the Scottish Parliament. A serious nuclear incident took place at Britains Trident submarine base in Scotland earlier this year, it has emerged. There was a Category A event at HMNB Clyde on Gare Loch in Faslane between January and April. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) defines a Category A incident as the most serious and those which carry an actual or high potential for radioactive release to the environment. But the government department has insisted the incident at HMNB Clyde did not pose a risk to the public or result in any radiological impact to the environment. The naval base is the Royal Navy's headquarters in Scotland and is home to Britain's nuclear submarines which includes the Vanguard vessels armed with Trident missiles. Your browser does not support iframes. A serious nuclear incident took place at Britains Trident submarine base, HMNB Clyde, in Scotland earlier this year, it has emerged The naval base is the Royal Navy's headquarters in Scotland and is home to Britain's nuclear submarines which includes the Vanguard vessels armed with Trident missiles The Category A event, which was first reported by The Herald, will raise concerns over the maintenance of the weapons at the facility. It was revealed in a written parliamentary answer by defence procurement minister Maria Eagle after she was asked to provide the number of Nuclear Site Event Reports (NSERs) at the Faslane and Coulport naval bases. NSERs detail incidents at nuclear facilities and are categorised based on their safety significance and impact. She disclosed that there had been a category A event at Faslane between January 1 and April 22 as well as two category B, seven category C and four category D incidents. Ms Eagle added that there were five further events deemed below scale and less serious. While Coulport, where Britains nuclear missiles and warheads are held, experienced four category C and nine category D events during the same period. The SNP has demanded an urgent explanation from the government over a catalogue of failures which include a separate contamination nearby. I cannot provide specific detail for the events as disclosure would, or would be likely to, prejudice the capability, effectiveness or security of any relevant forces, Ms Eagle told SNP MP Dave Doogan who tabled the question. I can assure the honourable member that none of the events listed in question 49938 caused harm to the health of any member of staff or to any member of the public and none have resulted in any radiological impact to the environment. Coulport armaments depot holds the Royal Navy's supply of nuclear warheads for its fleet of Trident submarines, above, which are based HMNB Clyde at Faslane, near Helensburgh The minister insisted that NSERs are raised to foster a robust safety culture that learns from experience, whether that is equipment failures, human error, procedural failings, documentation shortcoming or near-misses. The incident is the second serious one to take place at Faslane naval base in two years after a Category A event was recorded in 2023. And there were two similar events between 2006 and 2007. It comes after it was revealed that radioactive water was released from the Royal Navy nuclear weapons base in Coulport into Loch Long after several old pipes burst. The substances leaked into the water because the Royal Navy inadequately maintained a network of around 1,500 pipes on the base, according to a regulator. Nuclear weapons are an ever-present danger and this new information is deeply worrying, SNP deputy leader Keith Brown said. With repeated reports of serious incidents at Faslane and now confirmed radioactive contamination in Loch Long, its clear there is a direct threat to our environment, our communities, and our safety. Worse still, the Labour government is refusing to provide any details about the Category A incident, or the full extent of the contamination, including who could potentially be affected. While Westminster ploughs billions of public money into weapons of mass destruction, the SNP is focused on building a better Scotland. But only with independence, can we scrap Trident, clean up the mess it has left behind, and ensure this kind of reckless nuclear policy is never forced on Scotland again. An MoD spokesman said: We place the utmost importance on handling radioactive substances safely and securely. Nuclear Site Event Reports demonstrate our robust safety culture and commitment to learn from experience. The incidents posed no risk to the public and did not result in any radiological impact to the environment. It is factually incorrect to suggest otherwise. Our Government backs our nuclear deterrent as the ultimate guarantor of our national security. San Diego has been named the world's most relaxing city - but the tranquility of its golden beaches are under threat from sewage seeping in from the southern border. The California city was ranked first as the 'top city to unwind' based on metrics including spa access, air quality, sunshine hours, happiness and natural spaces. International eSIM provider Holafly gave the coastal metropolis a 'relaxation score' of 68.7 out of 100, followed by Singapore with 66.8 and Vienna, Austria with 63.5. This owed in large part to San Diego having 'the sunniest climate' among the cities listed, with an average of eight hours and nine minutes of bright sunlight per day. The picturesque city's balmy climate draws flocks of residents and tourists to South Mission and Central Beach each year - but the tides have turned in recent months. Analysis of the beaches on both sides of the southern border over the past two years have detected alarming levels of fecal matter in the water stretching 50 miles north of the US-Mexico coastal border, scientists have warned. One Coast Project and Permanent Forum of Binational Waters researchers have said fecal bacteria in the sea exceeded health standards almost every day of the year. The groups have collected water samples since 1999 along 65 miles of western coastline from Carlsbad, California, to Baja California in Mexico. San Diego (pictured) has been named the world's most relaxing city - but the tranquility of its golden beaches are under threat from sewage seeping in from the southern border San Diego has been plagued with a foul odor due to sewage pollution in the Tijuana River Extremely high levels of enterococci bacteria, which can cause serious infections, were detected in Southern California beaches over the spring in particular. Researchers said they found an average of 15,000 units of the bacterium pre 100 milliliters of water, which is almost 100 times the legal limit in the US and Mexico. Enterococci comes from fecal contamination, and it can cause gnarly gastrointestinal, skin, urinary tract and even heart infections. The bacteria type has been found much more frequently in San Diego waters since 2020, after a sharp rise in the contamination on the Mexican side in 2018. Director of One Coast Project Rosario Sanchez told Fox News there are very different testing protocols on each side of the border. 'In the U.S. side, there's more standardized procedures in terms of how often testing is done, basically daily, but on the Mexico side it can be just once a month if that,' she said. Sanchez said that coastal water quality is way off meeting basic health standards for more than 325 days per year across the coastline. 'This has impacts on both sides on both sides of the border, we're not talking just water quality, but we're talking about health,' she said. San Diego (pictured) has been named the world's most relaxing city - but the tranquility of its golden beaches are under threat from sewage seeping in from the southern border The California city of San Diego (pictured) was ranked first as the 'top city to unwind' based on metrics including spa access, air quality, sunshine hours, happiness and natural spaces Analysis of the beaches on both sides of the southern border over the past two years have detected alarming levels of fecal matter in the water, scientists have warned The contamination in San Diego is also compounded by toxic sewage spills from the Tijuana River Valley on the south side of the border city. Californians living in the Imperial Beach area have complained about respiratory problems and other complications that they believe are linked to the waste in the river. According to the San Diego Coastkeeper, the 'failing sewage infrastructure in Mexico' and 'negligent operation of the South Bay Plant by the US government' are to blame for the pollution and smell. On the US side, crews have placed riprap - large rocks - in the river in an attempt to stop the foul smell of sewage from plaguing the valley. In Mexico, environment groups are working to replace a section of an ageing sewage pipeline with a newer one made of concrete. However, the only way to rebuild the pipeline with minimal pollution was to allow sewage waste to run through the river during the construction. The International Boundary and Water Commission, a federal government agency monitoring the waterways between Mexico and the US, announced on April 9 that the team in Mexico would be working around the clock to fix the pipeline. The US side of the IBWC said Mexico had informed them that the decision to dump five million gallons of wastewater a day into the river was a 'difficult decision,' but there were no other alternatives to fixing the sewage problem. The IBWC said that even though the sewage dump was 'bad news,' the decision was the best way to prevent wastewater from polluting the Tijuana River long-term. A police officer and his wife have been found dead in the hot tub of a Brazilian motel. The lifeless bodies of Jeferson Sagaz, 37, and Ana Silva, 42, were discovered at the Dallas Motel in the city of Sao Jose on Tuesday night. Neither body showed any sign of violence or struggle, according to the authorities probing their deaths. Santa Catarina Civil Police chief Felipe Simao told Brazilian news outlet G1 that they have not ruled out the possibility that the couple was murdered and are also looking into whether they died by accident or committed suicide. Simao added that it's 'important that speculation about the cause of death and the couple's private life be avoided.' Results of an autopsy showing the cause of death would take about 10 days to be completed. Ana Silva and her husband, military police officer Jeferson Sagaz, were found dead inside a bathtub at a motel in Sao Jose, Brazil on Tuesday night Jeferson Sagaz and his wife, Ana Silva, were married for almost 20 years The couple were last seen alive on Sunday at their four-year-old daughter's birthday at a park, according to Joice Botelho, who is married to Silva's cousin. The couple then went to a bar, but failed to return to Sagaz's sister's home to pick up their daughter. 'They went to a bar and were last seen around 11:30 pm,' Botelho said. 'The next day, they were supposed to pick up their daughter from his sister... and they didn't show up.' Simao said that while the family noticed that Sagaz and Silva were missing, they did not contact the police to file a report. Th Dallas Motel offers rooms for $35-per-night or $14 for four hours. The couple have been married for almost 20 years. Sagaz was assigned to the Santa Catarina Military Police's academy in Florianopolis. The couple were last seen Sunday night at their daughter's birthday party before they were found dead at the Dallas Motel (pictured) Neither body presented any signs of struggle, according to police who are yet to rule out foul play Silva was the owner of Moodnailsbr, a salon in Sao Jose which she opened nine years ago. 'We say goodbye to a mother, a boss, a daughter, a wife, a sister, an exceptional woman,' the salon said in a tribute message posted on its Instagram account. Daily Mail has contacted Dallas Motel for comment. Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi's alleged hot oil attack on prison guards was motivated by terrorism, prosecutors will argue. Abedi, 28, was yesterday charged with three counts of attempted murder after prison officers were attacked at his high security jail in April. He was ordered to serve a record 55-year minimum term for helping his jihadist suicide bomber brother Salman murder 22 people, many of them children, at the Manchester Arena in 2017. It has now been confirmed that prosecutors will allege that there was a 'terrorist connection' to Hashem Abedi's alleged prison assault, which according to reports at the time left one victim 'just millimetres' from death. Families of victims of the bombings subsequently wrote to the Justice Secretary expressing their absolute disbelief over the alleged attack and said he should be locked up in solitary confinement for life. While the alleged prison attack has not been formally declared a terrorist incident, counter-terror police were involved in the subsequent investigation. Today it emerged that Abedi - who is due in court next month - will be prosecuted under the Terrorism Case Management Protocol. This means that the judge in the case will consider if there was a terrorist connection to the offences, with the prosecution arguing that there was. Manchester Arena bomb plotter Hashem Abedi (pictured) has been charged with three counts of attempted murder over the alleged prison attack Abedi, who allegedly had access to a 'self-cook kitchen' at Frankland jail in County Durham, is accused of hurling hot oil on prison officers on April 12 before attacking them with improvised 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 said to have been 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. Abedi was yesterday 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. Abedi will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court next month and remains in custody. Hashem Abedi (pictured in 2017) had a terrorist motivation when he allegedly tried to kill guards at his high-security prison, prosecutors will claim He was jailed for life in August 2020. Abedi 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. He 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. 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. The youth wing of a German political party has put forward a cheeky and audacious proposal to buy the entire Spanish island of Mallorca. The Ulm-Biberach branch of Junge Liberale (Young Liberals) raised eyebrows after it proposed to bringing the party island into German control. It said in an Instagram post: 'Millions of Germans travel there every year why shouldn't the enormous tourism revenues directly benefit our national budget? 'With Mallorca, we are not only securing a profitable premium travel destination, but also a strategic location in the Mediterranean. 'In doing so, we are assuming responsibility for an island that has long been a cultural part of our lives, providing legal certainty for the many Germans living there, and reducing unnecessary bureaucracy.' One commenter asked if the post was satirical, and the account denied this. But dozens more were sure it was a joke. One joked under the Young Liberals' post: 'First good demand of the [Young Liberals].' Another wrote: 'Would prefer Austria.' The post, which had the hashtag '#trump', was immediately compared to the US president's bid to buy Greenland. A German tourist stands in a bikini with the German flag on it on the beach in Arenal, Mallorca, Spain A German tourist waves a German flag while riding a segway at Palma's Beach in Palma de Mallorca Several commenters posted doctored images of Trump saying: 'I want to buy Greenland'. The plot, which Trump first suggested in his first term as president, saw him threaten to annex the autonomous Danish territory. When asked whether he would use military force, he said: 'I don't rule it out. I don't say I'm going to do it, but I don't rule anything out. 'We need Greenland very badly. Greenland is a very small amount of people, which we'll take care of, and we'll cherish them, and all of that. 'But we need that for international security.' A former stripper claims an Alabama priest paid her nearly $300,000 to be his secret sugar baby, despite his vow of abstinence. Heather Jones, 33, claimed Fr. Robert 'Bob' Sullivan, 61, began a sexual relationship with her in 2009 after meeting her at a strip club where she danced at when she was just 17. Their alleged relationship ended this year after she reported his suspected vow betrayal to his church, Our Lady of Sorrows in Homewood, near Birmingham. Sullivan is not facing any criminal charges. Jones claims the priest gave her $273,000 and forced her to sign an NDA, which she broke to tell her story, first reported by The Guardian. Sullivan allegedly paid her a total of $120,000 via 125 Venmo transactions between July 18, 2024, to March 26, 2025. According to Jones, Sullivan - then allegedly a regular patron at the club - offered her financial support in exchange for what he described as 'private companionship,' a term Jones says included sex. She also submitted a formal written statement to the Diocese of Birmingham, detailing the alleged years-long relationship with the priest, who was ordained in 1993. 'I was a minor with no experience navigating adult relationships,' Jones wrote in her statement. Heather Jones, 33, said Fr. Robert 'Bob' Sullivan, 61, began a sexual relationship with her after meeting her at a strip club where she danced at when she was 17 in 2009 He allegedly gave her $273,000 and forced her to sign an NDA. The Auburn University graduate additionally paid her a total of $120,000 via 125 Venmo transactions between July 18, 2024, to March 26, 2025, as part of their sugar baby agreement She added that she felt compelled to speak out so many years later because Sullivan continued working closely with families and children as a pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood - about 5 miles outside Birmingham. 'Others may be vulnerable to the same type of manipulation and exploitation,' she told The Guardian. Daily Mail has reached out to the church and Sullivan for comment. Jones says she requested a revision to the NDA and an additional $100,000, arguing the original agreement, 'heavily favored his interests and offered no meaningful protection, healing or justice'. But, she said her request was ignored and ultimately chose to violate the NDA, stating she believed 'it would not hold up in court'. Jones, who recently began law school, said she could provide additional evidence, such as phone records and photos if requested by investigators. The Auburn University graduate has since taken a 'personal leave,' announcing on August 3 that he would be absent after 'after prayer and reflection'. Bishop Steven Raica of the Diocese of Birmingham later confirmed in a letter to parishioners that Sullivan had been placed on leave set to begin on August 4 and that the matter had been referred to the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Their relationship ended this year after she reported his vow betrayal to his church, Our Lady of Sorrows in Homewood (pictured) According to Jones, Sullivan - then allegedly a regular patron at the club - offered her financial support in exchange for what he described as 'private companionship,' a term Jones says included sex '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. The Diocese also reported the allegations to the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR). However, the DHR eventually determined the claims did not meet the criteria for an investigation. Alabama law allows individuals aged 16 and older to legally consent to sex, and the state does not have laws specifically prohibiting clergy from engaging in sexual relationships with adult congregants under their spiritual care, according to the Alabama DHR. However, under Catholic canon law, anyone under 18 is considered a minor, and sexual contact with them is considered abusive. The Church began enforcing such rules more strictly in the early 2000s following widespread clergy abuse scandals. Diocese spokesperson Donald Carson said that while civil authorities may not pursue the matter, Sullivan is prohibited from public ministry pending the outcome of the Church's internal investigation. 'We keep Father Sullivan and the woman who's making the allegations certainly in our prayers,' Carson said. The bishop also revealed the church had no plans on revealing Sullivan's reason for a leave of absence until after the investigation was complete - as is policy. However, he changed course after The Guardian article was published. She also submitted a formal written statement to the Diocese of Birmingham, detailing the alleged years-long relationship with the priest, who was ordained in 1993 On Wednesday, Raica wrote in a statement to the diocese that Sullivan had 'a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise' as the investigations pending against him progressed. 'Anyone accused in the Church possesses a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, equivalent to the right granted in civil law,' he wrote to the diocese. Following Sullivan's 'absence,' Birmingham diocese vicar general Kevin Bazzel told congregants on Sunday that Raica had appointed him as Our Lady of Sorrows temporary administrator in Sullivans absence. Donald Trumps controversial adviser Corey Lewandowski is facing an investigation from the White House for allegedly gaming the system by undercounting his work hours. Lewandowski, Trumps 2016 campaign manager and longtime confidant, is reportedly using other employee badges to avoid swiping his own at government buildings so he can work without being clocked in. Moreover, the MAGA loyalist prefers not to leave a digital paper trail on government systems by refusing to use his government email or phone number for official business, according to a report by Axios. We're hearing that Corey's doing everything failing to swipe in, working from home, whatever to undercount his days, an anonymous White House official told Axios. It's fair to say his work is being watched now,' the official continued. Lewandowski works at the Department of Homeland Security as a special government employee. That means he does not have to submit financial disclosure forms nor stop his private business dealings. However, special government employees are limited to 130 days every year of unpaid work. The Axios report indicates Lewandowski is working beyond his limited hours as DHS Secretary Kristi Noems de facto chief of staff. According to the Axios report, four unnamed White House officials claimed Lewandowski has likely exceeded his allowed workdays as a temporary employee. Lewandowski maintains a close relationship with Noem at DHS as her de facto chief of staff White House officials accuse the controversial Trump adviser of working beyond the time allowed by his special government employee status Trump reportedly blocked Noem from hiring Lewandowski as her chief of staff at the start of the administration 'Mr. Lewandowskis time is kept by a career DHS employee who submits the paperwork on a bi-weekly basis,' a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told the Daily Mail. 'He has served 69 days.' The White House Counsels Office sent out a government-wide memo on July 3 reminding special government employees of their work limitations. The memo also included guidance for how to calculate workdays. An official with the White House told the Daily Mail that the memo was issued government-wide and not directed to any special individuals.' However, according to the Axios report, after releasing the memo, counsel for DHS and the White House had discussions regarding Lewandowskis employment at DHS. Lewandowskis employment at DHS has been filled with alleged controversies and scandal. In the past, Lewandowski and Noem, who are both married to others, have both denied rumors they are romantically linked. Regardless, the rumors swirling around the pair ultimately led to Trump blocking Noem from hiring Lewandowski as her chief of staff, according to multiple reports. Despite Trumps rejection, Lewandowski has reportedly ignored protocol by introducing himself as Noems chief of staff on at least one occasion. Lewandowski's proximity to Noem has made some DHS officials hesitant to move against him. Everybody's scared sh*tless of Lewandowski, an anonymous former DHS official told Axios. White House officials claim Lewandowski uses other employee's badges when entering government buildings to avoid clocking in, according to Axios The feeling is that if they go up against Corey, they're going to lose. And I would have to say they're right. Although Lewandowski managed Trumps first campaign, he was blocked out of leadership during the presidents 2024 campaign. Two months after joining the campaign as a senior adviser, Trumps campaign leadership told Lewandowski to refocus his efforts on surrogate work in New Hampshire, according to The Guardian. The Daily Mail reached out to Lewandowski for comment. Government board members and leaders of Commonwealth agencies will soon lose their business-class privileges on domestic flights. The Remuneration Tribunal, an independent body which sets pay and employment perks for Commonwealth officials, on Thursday announced the major travel change. The tribunal's ruling comes after the Albanese Government last month quietly rejected the Finance Department's recommendation that Commonwealth workers should travel economy on flights less than three hours long Under the new ruling, from September 7, tier-two office holders will no longer receive taxpayer funds to cover business-class flights on domestic routes. The move effectively forces those workers - including leaders of some government agencies, those serving on government boards and council members - to travel economy. Affected agencies include High-Speed Rail Authority Board, Housing Australia, Renewable Energy Agency and the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority. The Remuneration Tribunal also announced the removal of first-class international flights for all office holders. The Department of Finance began a review of bureaucratic travel expenses following public backlash from commentator Joe Aston's book, The Chairman's Lounge: The Inside Story of how Qantas Sold Us Out. The Remuneration Tribunal will require all tier-two government workers to fly economy on domestic flights The announcement follows large public outrage in late 2024 over the free upgrades politicians received from Qantas Aston's 2024 book detailed a series of complimentary upgrades Qantas offered politicians, including at least 22 to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The upgrades to business and first class were worth tens-of-thousands of dollars, raising concerns about corruption and bribes. Analysis of expenses revealed $4million of taxpayer funds could be saved by forcing public servants to travel economy on short domestic routes. 'There can be operational requirements to use business class on longer flights where government officials are expected to rest on the flight and arrive and commence work immediately,' the report stated. 'There are few operational requirements for shorter flights, especially those under three hours.' Existing travel arrangement cover employees of roughly 150 Commonwealth entities. A 14-year-old girl was unlawfully killed when she died at a children's mental health ward after an agency worker with a fake ID left her alone, an inquest jury has ruled. Ruth Szymankiewicz, who was being treated for an eating disorder at Huntercombe Hospital in Berkshire, was under strict one-to-one observation when the staff member responsible for her walked away on February 12, 2022. The worker, then known as Ebo Acheampong, had never worked in a psychiatric hospital before and was on his first shift at Huntercombe, an inquest at Buckinghamshire Coroner's Court heard. A police investigation later found he was hired by the Platinum agency - which supplied staff for Huntercombe Hospital - under a false name. He never returned to work at the hospital following the incident and fled the UK for Ghana. The ward was missing at least half of its staff on the day Ruth, who had self harmed several times in the past, was left unsupervised. Mr Acheampong was originally working on a different ward, but was asked to join the team because they were so short-staffed nurses could not go on breaks. Ruth, who had to be kept within eyesight at all times, was able to lock herself in her bedroom on the psychiatric intensive care unit where she self-harmed. She died two days later at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. Jurors wept as they recorded their conclusion, as well as the coroner and members of Ruth's family. Ruth Szymankiewicz (pictured), 14, died after she was left alone long enough to asphyxiate herself despite being under a 'level three observation' which required constant watch Ruth (pictured), who was being treated for an eating disorder at Huntercombe Hospital in Berkshire, was under strict one-to-one observation when the staff member responsible for her walked away on February 12, 2022 The worker, then known as Ebo Acheampong, had never worked in a psychiatric hospital before and was on his first shift at Huntercombe, an inquest at Buckinghamshire Coroner's Court heard. Pictured: Ruth A police investigation later found the worker was hired by the Platinum agency - which supplied staff for Huntercombe Hospital - under a false name. He never returned to work at the hospital following the incident and fled the UK for Ghana. Pictured: Ruth A risk management form known as a 'Datix incident' had been filed on the day Ruth was left unsupervised by Michelle Hancey, a support worker with 18 years' experience at Huntercombe. He raised concerns that the Thames ward team would 'fail to monitor patients on prescribed special observation because of staff shortage'. During the inquest, jurors were shown CCTV of the moment Mr Acheampong left Ruth unsupervised as she sat in the ward's lounge watching TV, allowing her to walk out. She had been placed on the 'level three observation' plan following earlier incidents of self-harm - meaning she had to be kept within eyesight at all times. Footage showed Mr Acheampong leaving the room repeatedly at first for seconds, then for two minutes before Ruth walked to the door and looked into the lobby, appearing to wait for a chance to leave. She was last seen on camera walking out of the day room alone and going straight to her bedroom, shutting the door behind her, coroner Ian Wade KC said. About 15 minutes later, a nurse found her and raised the alarm. Ruth (pictured) was last seen on camera walking out of the day room alone and going straight to her bedroom, shutting the door behind her, coroner Ian Wade KC said. About 15 minutes later, a nurse found her and raised the alarm Ruth's parents, Kate and Mark, a GP and a surgeon, told the inquest their daughter's care was 'terrible'. Today an inquest jury returned a conclusion of unlawful killing During the inquest, jurors were shown CCTV of the moment Mr Acheampong left Ruth (pictured) unsupervised as she sat in the ward's lounge watching TV, allowing her to walk out Huntercombe Hospital (pictured) had been inspected twice by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) prior to the incident, the inquest previously heard. It was rated as 'overall inadequate' in a CQC report dated February 2021. The jury foreman told the hearing: 'Ruth's (pictured) care pathway ... was insufficient to allow improvement for discharge. From Ruth's admission to Thames ward, her responsible clinician deemed the ward to be neither suitable nor conducive to her recovery' Today an inquest jury returned a conclusion of unlawful killing. 'Ruth was not prevented from accessing the restricted material which could be used to self-harm,' the jury foreman told the hearing. 'Ruth was not prevented from accessing harmful material on the internet. 'Ruth's care pathway ... was insufficient to allow improvement for discharge. 'From Ruth's admission to Thames ward, her responsible clinician deemed the ward to be neither suitable nor conducive to her recovery. 'Ruth's parents were not given adequate information about the appeal process, and refusal rights.' In an emotional statement after the inquest, Ruth's parent's Kate and Mark, both doctors, said: 'There is an empty space at our table, a silent bedroom in our home, a gaping hole in our family that will never be filled.' 'When, at our most vulnerable as a family, we reached out for help, we ultimately found ourselves trapped in a system that was meant to care for her, to help her, to keep her safe, but instead locked her away and harmed her.' They said while at Huntercombe, Ruth was denied access to the love and support of her family, and left 'isolated, scared and alone'. 'She was essentially caged' and 'withdrew more into herself as she tried to navigate and survive months in a poorly trained, understaffed and unsafe ward. 'She was trapped. With no one to comfort her, no one to try to alleviate her suffering, no one to cuddle'. They said that while the conduct of the worker who left Ruth alone was shocking, there were 'numerous systemic failures' and it was 'paramount that the other wider and more important issues are acknowledged and addressed'. A tearful assistant coroner for Buckinghamshire Coroner's Court, Ian Wade KC, thanked the jury and told Ruth's family: 'I hope you will treasure all the good memories of your lovely daughter.' Huntercombe Hospital had been inspected twice by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) prior to the incident, the inquest previously heard. It was rated as 'overall inadequate' in a CQC report dated February 2021. Active Care Group, which owned Huntercombe at the time of Ms Szymankiewicz's death, has since closed the facility. A Georgia woman murdered and dismembered her girlfriend before setting her remains alight and stealing her identity to live off her government checks for almost a decade, police said. Angel Marie Thompson, 41, is accused of killing her girlfriend Nicole Alston in 2007 and leaving her burnt remains by the side of an intersection in Troup County. Prosecutors said that after Thompson killed Alston, who was 24 at the time, she then assumed her partner's identity and collected almost $140,000 in government benefits through 2015. She also bought cars and rented apartments in Alston's name, according to arrest warrants reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Alston's murder went cold for decades as cops were unable to identify her charred remains. Thompson's arrest came after authorities sent evidence for advanced DNA testing in early 2023. The remains were connected to Alston through a public genealogy test her sister had taken, with longtime investigator Clay Bryant subsequently joining the case. Alston and Thompson moved from New York in 2007, but their relationship turned abusive after they began living together in Fulton County, Georgia, cops said. Angel Marie Thompson, 41, has been charged with murder 18 years after she allegedly dismembered her girlfriend before stealing her identity and living off her government checks The remains of Nicole Alston were found in a burning bag at the side of a Georgia highway in 2007 Thompson sexually trafficked her girlfriend and murdered her when she tried to leave the relationship, Fulton County prosecutor Fani Willis said. Willis added that Alston's case was one of the most gruesome investigations she has ever seen. 'There was no way to identify her,' she said. The prosecutor was joined by Alston's mother Sylvia, who grew emotional as she said she, 'wished I never let her come to Georgia'. 'She didn't deserve this,' she said. Thompson was on dating sites within hours of Alston's body being in a burning bag by the side of the highway, Sandy Springs Detective John Nanoff said. He added that Thompson then used Alston's name to open bank accounts, acquire a drivers license, receive housing assistance and get Social Security benefits. Nanoff said that he was stunned by the 'meticulous' alleged murder. Her remains were found burned beyond recognition and were only identified through advanced DNA testing in early 2023 Alston's mother Sylvia, who grew emotional at a press conference as she said she 'wished I never let her come to Georgia.' 'She didn't deserve this,' she added Fulton County prosecutor Fani Willis is seen holding Alston's picture at a press conference announcing the arrest this week 'Its astounding that she was able to do what she did for how long she did it,' he said. 'Ive never seen something so calculated.' Detectives said that they believe Alston was killed inside the couple's apartment. DNA testing reportedly found large quantities of blood evidence even 17 years after Alston's death. Thompson's arrest comes a year after she was booked on a single charge of concealing the death of another, after prosecutors said she had been collecting Alston's government checks for years. She was released on bond two years later, and cops said this week that they believed she was responsible for Alston's death at the time, but did not have enough evidence to charge her. She is currently charged with murder and identity theft. Willis said she plans to include human trafficking charges to Thompson's case and will present the case to a grand jury by the end of October. President Donald Trump said Thursday that there's a '25 percent' chance his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin is a failure. Trump gave those odds during a phone interview Thursday morning with Brian Kilmeade, as part of his Fox News radio show. The president leaves first thing Friday for his meeting with Putin, which is taking place in Anchorage, Alaska. Trump played coy when asked by Kilmeade what he might offer Putin to entice him to stop his three and a half year assault on neighboring Ukraine. 'Well, I'd rather not say,' the president answered. 'Because I don't want to play my hand in public.' He said there were 'economics incentives and disincentives' and that the disincentives were 'maybe more important in a way.' 'You know, Russia's got tremendous potential,' Trump continued. 'They have the largest piece of land by far. Massive.' The Telegraph reported Wednesday night that Trump planned to incentivize Putin by offering him access to rare earth minerals, which garnered the president criticism from anti-Trump former Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger. President Donald Trump (left) tempered expectations ahead of his meeting Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin (right) saying there's a '25 percent' chance it ends in failure The American and Russian leader will meed mid-day Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson located in Anchorage, Alaska 'What an absolute weak a** sellout,' Kinzinger posted Wednesday night to X. A White House spokesperson did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment on the Telegraph's report. Asked specifically about whether he was prepared to offer Putin access to rare earth minerals to get a deal, Trump didn't take it off the table. 'We are going to see what happens,' he responded during an event on Social Security in the Oval Office Thursday afternoon. During his call with Kilmeade, Trump tempered expectations for the meeting, which marks the first time a U.S. president is meeting face-to-face with Putin since the Russian leader invaded Ukraine in February 2022. 'I don't know if we're going to get an immediate ceasefire,' Trump said. He reiterated that he hoped the Alaska meeting would eventually set up a 'peace deal' and would open the door to there being a second meeting that would include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 'And depending on what happens with my meeting, I'm going to be calling President Zelensky and let's get him over to wherever we're going to meet,' Trump said. President Donald Trump didn't give a direct answer Thursday when asked by a reporter in the Oval Office if he'd offer Russian President Vladimir Putin access to rare earth minerals in order to get a deal to end the war in Ukraine 'I don't know where we're going to have the second meeting, but we have an idea of three different locations,' he revealed. 'Including the possibility, because it would be, by far, the easiest of staying in Alaska.' Earlier Thursday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the day would conclude with Trump and Putin side-by-side giving a press conference. But on Kilmeade's show, Trump said that plan wasn't set in stone. 'I'm going to have a press conference. I don't know if it's going to be a joint - we haven't even discussed it,' the president said. 'I think it might be nice to have a joint and then separates, so something like that will happen.' 'Or if the meeting doesn't end well, we'll have a press conference and head out, I'll head back to Washington,' the president added. But Trump emphasized that the Alaska meeting 'sets up the second meeting.' 'The second meeting is going to be very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they can make a deal,' he said. On a call with Zelensky and European leaders on Wednesday, Trump was frank with Ukraine's president that there would likely need to be 'land swaps.' Zelensky has resisted the idea of giving up any of Ukraine's territory to Putin. 'And I don't want to use the word divvy things up, but you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term, OK? But there will be a give and take as to boundaries, lands, etc. etc.,' Trump told the Fox News host. 'But there is a 25 percent chance this meeting will not be a successful meeting,' the president added. A trial date has been set for three teenagers who allegedly beat a man to death with a concrete slab at a seaside resort. Alexander Cashford, 49, was found dead with multiple serious injuries in Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey on Sunday. A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 15 and 14, were charged with his murder on Tuesday. On Thursday, a provisional trial date was set at Maidstone Crown Court for January 13 next year. The three are charged with murder by joint venture after a 'violent assault' took place near the beach in Warden Bay. Kent Police were called to the Warden Bay Road area shortly after 7pm on Sunday, after an altercation involving a small number of people. Mr Cashford was confirmed dead at the scene, and police said multiple injuries to his body were reported. A 16-year-old girl and two boys aged 14 and 15, all from London, were thought to have been on holiday in Kent at the time of the attack. A trial date has been set for three teenagers who allegedly beat Alexander Cashford, 49, (pictured) to death with a concrete slab at Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey on Sunday A 16-year-old girl and two boys, aged 15 and 14, were charged with murder by joint venture after a 'violent assault' took place near the beach in Warden Bay (police pictured investigating the scene) Kent Police were called to the Warden Bay Road area shortly after 7pm on Sunday, after an altercation involving a small number of people and set up a cordon Some local residents witnessed the attack, and tried to provide CPR to Mr Cashford, the court heard. The 16-year-old girl and 14-year-old boy appeared in court on Thursday morning and spoke only to confirm their names.The 15-year-old boy appeared by video link from a youth detention centre. Family members of all three teenagers watched proceedings from the public gallery. The attack is alleged to have involved a glass bottle and rocks being thrown, the court heard. On Thursday, the prosecution said the cause of Mr Cashford's death is currently inconclusive as he seems to have suffered a 'medical episode such as a cardiac arrest could have been brought on by being chased and attacked'. He was found with bruising to his 'lower ribs and stomach' along with an injury to his head, the court heard. A 12-year-old girl, arrested on Tuesday in Basildon, Essex, in connection with the incident has been bailed. The 16-year-old girl and the two boys, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have been remanded into youth detention accommodation. Your browser does not support iframes. Yesterday police carried out another search for evidence in the area where Mr Mr Cashford was found with multiple injuries Specialist officers brought a sniffer dog (pictured) to the scene as police continued to investigate the area near the beach in Warden Bay A plea and trial preparation date has been set for November 6. Yesterday specialist officers 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 also covered some areas of the scrap land behind Warden Bay Beach. 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. The daily Mail revealed that 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. Emergency services at the scene in the Leysdown-on-Sea resort on the Isle of Sheppey following the alleged assault 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 A Syrian asylum seeker has appeared in court to deny raping a woman in a public toilet on Bournemouth seafront. Mohammed Abdullah, 18, allegedly attacked the 20-year-old woman in the toilet in Undercliff Drive, Bournemouth, at about 2am on July 6. Abdullah, a student, entered not guilty pleas to charges of rape and assault by penetration alleged to have been committed against one complainant. During a short hearing at Bournemouth Crown Court, Abdullah, who arrived in Britain as an asylum seeker in 2023 and has been granted permanent leave to remain here, was assisted in the dock by an interpreter. Judge Jonathan Fuller KC said Abdullah, of West Drayton, Middlesex, will go on trial on May 5 next year. 'The matter will be adjourned for trial which will take place on May 5 next year,' the judge said. 'You will have to be back here on October 30 for a further case management hearing. 'You will be remanded to your bail subject to the same conditions that were imposed at this court in July.' Pictured: Abdullahs family and family friend leaving court. Mohammed Abdullah, 18 (not pictured), allegedly attacked and raped a 20-year-old woman in the toilet on Bournemouth seafront on July 6 The attack allegedly occurred at Undercliff Drive (pictured), Bournemouth, at around 2am His conditional bail, which includes a tagged home curfew, was continued by the judge and he was ordered to return to court for a further case management hearing on October 30. At an earlier hearing in July, several of his family members watched on from the public gallery as he spoke only to confirm his name, age and address via an Arabic interpreter during the hearing. Harry Price-Smith, defending, said at the time: 'He's originally from Syria and came to this country with his family two years ago as an asylum seeker, and has been granted indefinite leave to remain. 'His mother, father, two sisters and a family friend are all here in court to support him.' A Canadian judge has blocked the deportation of an Indian man because his wife has ADHD and will suffer 'irreparable harm' if they are separated. Federal Judge Avvy Yao-Yao Go granted Indian immigrant Jagjit Singh's stay of removal to India on Tuesday in a court filing viewed by the Daily Mail. Singh came to Canada in 2021 on a temporary resident visa and made a refugee claim upon his arrival, according to the filing. However, after he married his wife, identified in court documents as L.B., on January 13 2025, she applied to sponsor his permanent resident application, and Singh withdrew his refugee claim. In the following months, Singh underwent the removal interview process by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) while his permanent resident application was under review and was ultimately ordered to be deported. Singh appealed to Canada's federal court, claiming he would be in danger if he was sent back to India, and his removal would cause serious prejudice to his spouse due to her health conditions. According to the filing, Go found evidence that Singh's wife has ADHD and would experience 'irreparable harm' if he were deported. 'In the case before me, there is evidence that L.B. suffers from ADHD which impairs her ability to manage time, stress focus and everyday responsibilities and that [Singh] provides her with support by, among other things, helping her maintain daily structure and reminders for medications and appointments, and providing her with emotional stability and mental health support,' Go said. Canadian Federal Judge Avvy Yao-Yao Go (pictured) blocked the deportation of Indian immigrant Jagjit Singh claiming his wife has ADHD and would suffer 'irreparable harm' 'In the end, taking into consideration the irreparable harm to [Singh's] spouse on the... I find that granting the stay until the underlying [application] is determined would be just and equitable in all the circumstances of the case.' Go's reasoning sparked furious backlash online, with many accusing the judge of pushing her own agenda. 'Okay, so we got migrant activist judges (with a history of attacking the Canadian population) letting migrant criminals off the hook over imaginary afflictions that aren't life-threatening or his own,' one person said. 'We do not need activist judges - we need level-headed atheists who make decisions on evidence and logic,' said another. 'So our system refuses to remove someone who is here illegally based on a flimsy excuse,' added a third person. Others blasted the judge for accepting his wife's ADHD as an excuse and said it was belittling to people with the condition. 'I wonder how his wife survived before she met him?' one person said. 'This is beyond insulting. Not only to people with ADHD, but to our country. So pathetic,' added another. 'This is ridiculous. ADHD is not so debilitating that the judge should have made this decision,' a third person said. Judge Go (pictured), who worked as Clinic Director of the Chinese and Southeast Asian Legal Clinic before becoming a judge, faced backlash online for the decision Go immigrated to Canada from Hong Kong in the 1980s and worked as Clinic Director of the Chinese and Southeast Asian Legal Clinic before becoming a judge. 'Go has 30 years of advocacy and litigation experience on behalf of low-income racialized clients,' according to her Canadian Bar Association (CBA) profile. She told the CBA, 'I worked exclusively in the legal clinic system helping low-income, racialized clients who faced multiple challenges in accessing the legal system. 'I believe the work I did in the clinic system helped me become more empathetic and more open to appreciating the different experiences that different individuals have with the justice system.' The Daily Mail has contacted Singh's lawyer, the federal court, Judge Go, the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness and the CBSA for comment. A Russian anti-corruption campaigner and long-time ally of Kremlin foe Alexei Navalny has shared what she claims are photos of Vladimir Putin's youngest son as part of a long-standing investigation. Maria Pevchikh revealed astonishing details of how the 'princes' are educated at home in Putin's hidden palaces by tutors on super salaries of $36,000 a month as she shared photos of the two children rumoured to be Putin's secret sons. Multiple pictures have emerged recently of Swiss-born Ivan, but this is the first time 72-year-old Putin's second son and youngest child is believed to have been pictured. Six-year-old Vladimir Junior was born in Moscow in 2019 and like his brother Ivan, 10, there is no official information about him, or the despot's relationship with their alleged mother Alina Kabaeva, 42, an Olympic gold medal winning gymnast. Leaked data shows their teachers are secretly paid by a company linked to Putin-friendly oligarch Gennady Timchenko, 72, who also supports Kabaeva and boasts a 16 billion fortune, according to Ms Pevchikh. Their German language tutors named as Sofia Bozic, 33, a Bosnian citizen, and Irene Ens, 36, from Germany. 'Both Irene and Sofia are the personal tutors of Putin and Alina Kabaeva's sons - Vladimir Jr and Ivan,' said Pevchikh. 'They are now six and ten years old.' A Russian anti-corruption campaigner and long-time ally of Kremlin foe Alexei Navalny has shared what she claims are photos of Vladimir Putin 's youngest son 'Sofia Bozic and Irene Enns regularly travel by train to Uglovka and Akulovka stations,' she said in her latest investigative piece shared to YouTube. 'These are the nearest railway stations to Putin's residence in Valdai, where he is believed to spend most of his time with his children and Alina Kabaeva.' It was revealed this week that at least a dozen state-of-the-art air defence systems guard this forest palace against attack by Ukrainian drones or missiles. 'If primary school teachers from the regions even from Moscow are watching me now, I apologise in advance, brace yourselves', Pevchikh added. The tutors, she said, receive nearly $36,000 per month for their continued service - comparable, she noted, to what a German teacher in Russia might expect to earn over seven years. 'And they're not paid by the pupils' father after all, Putin's official salary is three times less than that of the foreign tutor. '[The money comes from] Gennady Timchenko, who holds Putin's cashbox. That's the essence of the corruption system built by Vladimir Putin. 'From the very start of his first presidential term [in 2000] it was designed this way.and it continues to develop at a furious pace.' Timchenko also made a payment of 4.6 million to Kabaeva's foundation, according to Pevchikh in a new investigation called 'Putin's Common Fund: Who Pays for Putin and Kabaeva's Luxurious Life?' Multiple pictures have emerged recently of Swiss-born Ivan, but his is the first time 72-year-old Putin's second son and youngest child has been pictured 'Putin's beloved woman needs half a billion for a hobby,' she said sarcastically. 'Well, Putin can't just transfer it to her from his own salary card. 'And that's when dear comrade Timchenko comes to the rescue, transferring it from the place where the common money is kept.' Another payment of 4.2 million went to a clinic linked to Putin's eldest daughter Maria Vorontsova, 40. Putin foes claim the dictator is one of the richest men in the world, with his secret fortune looked after by friendly oligarchs like Timchenko yet until now there has been scant proof of such 'cashbox' arrangements. Officially he earns around 94,000 a year. Ivan was pictured this year at a gymnastics event held at Valdai. The high security bolt hole is served by its own railway line on which runs 72-year-old Putin's personal armoured train. An exclusion zone surrounding the estate is larger than the Mediterranean island of Malta. 'A small karting track was set up on the site of former helipads,' reported Proekt. 'And right next to the residence, a large children's playground in yellow and blue [the colours of Ukraine] was erected deep in the woods between 2016 and 2020.' Earlier this year, Putin's secret 10-year-old son was seen for the first time, according to an anti-Kremlin website. Alina Kabaeva and Vladimir Putin at an event in Kremlin, Russia Putin and Alina Kabaeva's sons - Vladimir Jr and Ivan (pictured) are now six and ten years old Olympic gold-winning rhythmic gymnast Alina Kabaeva The Telegram channel VChK-OGPU unveiled bombshel; images claiming to show the eldest child the Russian dictator shares with Kabeva. 'VChK-OGPU [channel] has obtained a photo of the most secret and probably the loneliest boy in Russia', reads a report by the anti-Kremlin Telegram channel with links to law enforcement and the secret services. It continues: 'This is Ivan Vladimirovich Putin. 'He hardly communicates with other children, spending all his time with guards, governesses, [and] teachers.' The boy appears to resemble Putin in his Soviet childhood. Putin has never confirmed the young family he has with Olympic Gold-medal winning Kabaeva, three decades his junior. The school district of a very liberal city has banned teachers from expressing their personal political opinions. As students are set to return to school on Monday, teachers in San Francisco public schools have been told that they cannot discuss their political stance in the classroom. School leaders reminded educators that they are not allowed to show their political opinions in any way - from what they say, to what they wear and how they decorate their classrooms. Back-to-school training took place this week, and principals were encouraged by district officials to make their employees aware of this ban. The guidance comes after last year's disputes over political activism at school, specifically in ethnic studies courses. Educators in city schools last year controversially encouraged students to write letters to Mumia Abu-Jamal, a former Black Panther sentenced to death in 1981 for murdering a Philadelphia police officer. Other teachers asked students to participate in anti-Israel protests. Some classroom leaders hung pro-Palestinian posters in classrooms or referred to Israel as colonizers committing genocide. There have also been student walkouts (pictured), encouraged by teachers and their unions, as well as posters and staff clothing reflecting beliefs on political candidates, government policies and the war in Gaza The laws and policies mandating that teachers do not discuss personal politics are not new, but they have been ignored in recent years - and skipped over in staff training, according to San Francisco Chronicle. Last year, district officials did give principals materials to train staff on bias and personal opinions, but it's unknown how many used them. One veteran teacher said that this is the first year she has ever received such guidance. 'Many teachers have been dangerously misled about their professional freedoms and responsibilities,' the educator said. 'K-12 teachers don't have the same academic freedoms as university instructors. Our students are minor children.' The San Francisco School District's teachers union has been explicitly pro-Palestine - even writing a pro-Palestinian resolution in February. In the resolution they stated that 'educators who utilized their democratic rights to speak out against the war were repressed or harassed by school authorities.' District officials said in response that employees have the right to engage in political activity 'on their own time, and at their own expense'. They claimed that the stance of union members has no effect on district policies. 'In the classroom, the District has a responsibility to regulate classroom activities and discussion to ensure that information is related to academic curriculum and that staff do not create undue pressure on students to agree with a staff member's political views,' according to a statement. 'When at work, our employees hold a unique position of influence over students in their care, and this influence is a privilege.' San Francisco Superintendent Maria Su (pictured)vowed to address the issue following community concerns raised specifically about ethnic studies courses and general pro-Palestinian activism Schools in the Bay Area have seen an increase in political activism in recent years. In November, an educator was fired from Bishop O'Dowd High, a private Catholic school in Oakland, for 'insubordination'. The English teacher had reportedly refused to stop wearing a pin bearing the Palestinian flag and the words 'Free Palestine'. In February, a Bay Area school showed a video with an image of an avowed Middle East terrorist during an LGBTQ+ awareness event. The video included a woman who wore a T-shirt showing Leila Khaled, a Palestinian political activist who hijacked an airplane in 1969, carrying a rifle. Next to the image were the words 'resistance is not terrorism.' Tara Taupier, the district superintendent, apologized for the video. 'We, as a district, acknowledge that this image is troubling, particularly because of its connection to violence and terrorism against Jewish people,' she said. Schools in the Bay Area have seen an increase in political activism in recent years There have also been student walkouts encouraged by teachers and their unions, as well as posters and staff clothing reflecting beliefs about political candidates, government policies and the war in Gaza, according to SF Chronicle. San Francisco Superintendent Maria Su vowed to address the issue following community concerns raised specifically about ethnic studies courses and general pro-Palestinian activism. 'Teaching should be about teaching students how to think, not what to think,' Su said in June. Su decided to suspend the districts ethnic studies curriculum, which critics said was divisive, antisemitic and promoted progressive activism. School board President Phil Kim said: 'Students should be challenged in their coursework and schools should provide a safe and rigorous experience where they can express their thinking and listen to others.' 'Our whole job here as educators is to create the conditions for all of that to take place.' Two craps dealers and their friends who siphoned more than $1 million from a luxury Las Vegas casino have been named and shamed in Nevada's notorious 'black book'. The infamous list of people banned from casinos now includes Mark Branco, 52, James Russell Cooper Jr, 53, Anthony Grant Granito, 58, and Jeffrey Martin, 48. Cooper and Branco were dealers at Bellagio luxury hotel and casino. They would work with customers Granito and Martin to cheat at the dice game. They were indicted in 2015 and convicted the following year after they were found to have used phantom 'hop' bets to cheat the Las Vegas Strip resort out of $1.2 million. All four, who are believed to be living in Sin City, are now on the Nevada Gaming Commission's list of 'excluded persons' in the famous black book. The black book list is largely comprised of the names of people who have ties to organized crime and have been caught cheating. While it now exists in digital form online, the original black book was a dark colored tome which ultimately lent its nickname to the banned list. Gambling addicts can also place their own names on separate exclusionary lists, which allows them to sue casinos if they allow them to place bets. Branco, and accomplices Jeffrey D. Martin and Anthony Grant Granito each apologized and asked for probation before a Clark County District Court judge who also ordered each man to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution. 'I'll do whatever it takes to make it right,' Branco sobbed. James Russell Cooper (left) and Anthony Grant Granito (right) have both been added to Nevada's notorious 'black book' after scamming a Las Vegas casino An archived copy of the book is pictured. Those named in the list, which has since been digitized, are unwelcome in Las Vegas casinos 'Family should always be the priority. I let money be the priority,' Martin said. 'I've disgraced my family. I've disgraced myself,' said Granito, who had a heart attack and bypass surgery after being charged in the case. Judge Valerie Adair responded that over the two years of the scheme, during which a casino official testified the men gathered at the craps table 76 times, they must've assumed they'd go to prison if they got caught. Adair sentenced Branco, 43, to four to 10 years in prison. Martin, 39, and Granito, 49, each got four years to eight years and four months. Together, they're responsible for $1.05 million in restitution. Each man pleaded guilty in 2015 to two felonies theft and cheating at gambling in a plea deal that avoided trial and had other charges in a 60-count indictment dismissed. Branco and Bellagio co-worker James Russell Cooper Jr., were arrested in July 2014 and fired by the Bellagio after the scheme came to light. Cooper, 44, pleaded guilty to a lesser theft charge and testified before a grand jury, providing what prosecutor Jay P. Raman called a crucial insider's account. Cooper is expected to face one to five years in prison at sentencing later this year. Raman said the four men hatched the scheme at a local pizza restaurant before they began the fraud in August 2012. Jeffrey Douglas Martin, left, and Mark William Branco, right, have also been added to the list of shame for conning the famous Bellagio Hotel's casino out of $1.2 million The four crooks were indicted for scamming the Bellagio (pictured) out of the seven figure sum in 2015 When Cooper or Branco or both were dealing at a craps table, Martin and Granito would step up and mutter confusing bets amid last-second activity before the roll of the dice. They'd win no matter what the outcome. 'When the circumstances were just right, they would make high-stakes 'hop' bets,' Raman said. 'No money. No chips.' For a time, the results made Martin and Granito the top craps winners at the posh Bellagio resort, Raman said. 'They stole a ton of money,' the prosecutor said, 'the kind of money that the word 'jackpot' usually follows.' They bought new vehicles and padded their bank accounts, Raman said, but Martin also lost a significant amount of money on slot machines. Sharon Tibbits, a fraud-control executive at Bellagio owner MGM Resorts International, told the judge Tuesday that it took thousands of hours for investigators to piece together the defendants' bets, losses and winnings. In one day in July 2014, Granato won $13,200 on the first roll of the dice and stayed for 229 more rolls. Tibbits said he lost $64,000 on valid bets, but won almost $150,000 on fraudulent bets. His net win was more than $85,000. 'It was not need. It was 100 percent greed,' the casino official said, urging the judge to impose stiff sentences. 'Please don't let crime pay,' Tibbits said. A farm worker reportedly beat his colleague to death before eating his brain on his first day on the job. The brutal killing took place on August 12 at Fazenda Baixinha, a rural property in Ilheus, in the far south of the Brazilian state of Bahia. According to local reports, a local landowner had offered suspect Luiz Teiceira work helping bring in the harvest. But for reasons still unknown, he got into a violent argument with fellow labourer Pedro Nascimento dos Santos, 60, and repeatedly struck him on the head with a piece of wood. The blows to his head were so severe that brain matter was left scattered across the floor. Witnesses alleged the suspect then picked up some of the matter and ate them. Local police said they are still in the process of verifying the cannibalism claims, as dogs that were on the farm had also eaten parts of the brain. Chief of Police Andre Aragao Lima, told DCM: 'The attack was so violent that the brain matter was scattered across the floor,' he stated. A local landowner had offered suspect Luiz Teiceira (pictured) work helping bring in the harvest before the brutal killing The brutal killing took place on August 12 at Fazenda Baixinha, a rural property in Ilheus, in the far south of the Brazilian state of Bahia. Pictured: Ilheus -a city known worldwide for cocoa farming-, Bahia state, Brazil, on December 12, 2019 The Civil Police and Military Police have begun searching the area, which is made up of several farms, after the suspect fled into nearby woodland following the brutal act. They are yet to locate him. 'Luiz's arrest has not yet been requested,' said Lima, who did not officially confirm the reports of cannibalism. The case has been registered as first-degree murder, and the motive remains under investigation. The area is at the heart of Brazil's cocoa bean country, where farms grow the pods used to make chocolate under the shade of taller trees. This is the moment a fugitive British gangster dances a bizarre jig after being tracked down and arrested in his Barcelona hide-out. Jamie Rothwell, who confessed to an 'addiction' to revenge, violence and racketeering, was today jailed for 43 years after his a multi-million pound drugs empire came crumbling down. He fled abroad after a gunman sprayed bullets at him at a car wash in 2015 as part of a murderous feud sparked when a notorious Salford gang splintered. From his Spanish bolthole he used an underworld messaging network to mastermind tit-for-tat attacks on rivals back in the UK while showing off his apartment's panoramic views of the city. The 'feared' leader of a multi-million-pound drug and gun operation, Rothwell featured on the recent Channel 4 documentary Operation Dark Phone: Murder by Text. But he was tracked down in May 2020 and arrested by Spanish police, who filmed the arrogant crime lord kicking up his heels in a bizarre jig as he was led away in handcuffs. Detectives amassed overwhelming evidence against him as part of the cracking of the Encrochat messaging app - dubbed WhatsApp for criminals. They were able to prove that a user called 'Live Long' who was directing attempted underworld hits was actually Rothwell after intercepting a selfie he sent showing himself sticking up two fingers. Gangster Jamie Rothwell was today jailed for 43 years after detectives proved he was the organised crime mastermind behind the underworld Encrochat handle 'Live Long' with the help of this intercepted selfie 'Feared' gangster Jamie Rothwell was filmed laughing and joking with Spanish police after being arrested in Barcelona Jamie Rothwell used an underworld messaging network to mastermind tit-for-tat attacks on rivals back in the UK from his Spanish hide-out Spanish police arrested Rothwell in May 2020 after raiding his Barcelona apartment He later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to supply cocaine and ketamine and two counts of conspiracy to inflict GBH with intent. Now 38, Rothwell showed no emotion as he was sentenced to 18 years for drugs offences at Manchester Crown Court. He was also given consecutive 21 years stretch for the firearms matters - plus an extra four years on licence when he is freed, making a total of 43 years. Nine associates jailed alongside him were today given sentences totalling almost 164 years. At the height of his criminal career, father-of-two Rothwell refused to have any contact with his youngest daughter for fear she would be inadvertently 'exposed to the dangers of his world'. Instead, in chilling messages he sent to friends via his specially adapted 11,000 mobile phone to the encrypted platform, he wrote: 'When you have fire in your heart you don't stop. 'You get addicted. You lose everyone. You turn cold, no emotions.' Rothwell added: 'It's not egos bro. Bare-chested Jamie Rothwell was held at his Barcelona apartment in a Spanish police swoop in May 2020 Spanish police pictured counting piles of cash seized when Jamie Rothwell was arrested 'People say thattill u get shot or a friend does. Then tick for tack. 'Egos at first I agree. Then when you in, hard to go back.' When shown a picture of an AK-47 rifle with magazines and ammunition, Rothwell retorted: 'Makes me hard that bro'. He also bragged of moving 300 guns, having rocket-propelled grenades, machine guns and an anti-tank gun, writing: 'I sell a lot of Glocks'. Rothwell is currently being detained in the maximum security Wakefield jail - dubbed 'Monster Mansion' over its highly dangerous inmates. One of his daughters watched proceedings from the public gallery. The court heard Rothwell's gang was behind the trafficking of 'industrial levels' of cocaine, heroin and ketamine plus various firearms including AK 47s and semi automatic 9mm Glock pistols across the UK. He was a leading light in the Salford gang feud which erupted between 2014 and 2019 between rival outfits the A-Team and the Anti A-Team. Salford gang boss Jamie Rothwell was brought to court under armed police guard Armed police guarding Manchester Crown Court as gangster Jamie Rothwell and his associates were jailed today Rothwell himself was shot and wounded in a revenge attack at a car wash in Ashton-in-Makerfield in 2015 by a masked gunman armed with a Heckler and Koch pistol after he was accused of carrying out a grenade attack. Rothwell was said to be the right-hand-man of Michael Carroll, the alleged leader of the Anti A-Team, in opposition to the A-Team, said to be led by Stephen Britton. Gangster Paul Massey was said to be Brittons mentor. In July 2015, Massey was shot dead outside his home in Salford by Mark Fellows, an Anti A-Team associate nicknamed The Iceman. Months later, seven-year-old Christian Hickey was shot at his doorstep as the A-Team sought revenge in a botched hit, thought to have been targeting the schoolboys father, a close associate of Carroll. Rothwell was said to have access to 'millions of pounds,' had a bonded warehouse operation for his racketeering and even had an Amazon liveried truck doing drugs runs to Belfast. After being arrested in Barcelona he stood trial accused of conspiracy to murder during a vicious turf war with the rival 'A-Team' gang which involved at least seven shootings, with handguns, shotguns and an Uzi sub-machine gun. But was found not guilty of wrongdoing and later travelled to the Netherlands before being extradited again. Jailed gangster Jamie Rothwell (pictured) 'issued orders and expected to then to be obeyed', a judge said today During his campaign of terror, Rothwell accused one rival hiding out in Dubai of being a 'grass' and warned: 'He turned on me for nothing. 'He my only enemy. When he lands in UK that's when it starts.' The innocent stepfather of a man who crossed Rothwell was gunned down in a hail of bullets at his home in Warrington after answering his front door to a hitman posing as a pizza delivery driver. He was hit in the leg after shutting the door just in time and survived the attack. Another gangland hit was called off at the last minute when the target was found to be not at home. The court was told how Rothwell gave an insight into the violence that is the 'hallmark and byproduct' of his business, during one conversation with a gangland associate. Jaime Hamilton KC, prosecuting, said: 'He discussed how he does not have anything to do with his youngest child saying she does not need to be exposed to the level of danger that his world provides.' Police estimated he traded over 200kg of cocaine worth 7million plus 5kg of ketamine and he was involved in the transfer of 1.2million in dirty cash. Rothwell had previous convictions for armed robbery, conspiracy to supply drugs and money laundering. He was stabbed in prison by a fellow inmate whilst he was being held on remand. His counsel Christopher Henley KC said: 'Mr Rothwell has tired of the life he has lived and he wants to call a stop to all this. 'He is determined to draw a line and has resolved to focus on his family and future.' But sentencing him, Judge John Potter told Rothwell: 'You were at the top of your organisation. 'You issued orders and expected to then to be obeyed. A ring of high security in place for the arrival from prison of Jamie Rothwell, 38, at Manchester Crown Court this week 'Others feared you and you obtained wealth by having access to millions of pounds in cash and you lived much of your time in Portugal and also Spain where you had access to an apartment from where you circulated pictures of panoramic views across Barcelona on Encrochat. 'Your drug dealing was on an international level and your willingness to use firearms and to resort to violence was evidenced by the messages you sent showing the level of harm you were prepared to inflict on your enemies. 'You have lived much of your life as a professional criminal involved in a series organised crime. 'These offences graphically illustrate your willingness to follow this path and cause loss and misery to others as you do so.' Eight other men were jailed for a total of 163 years for their part in the racket. Today Senior Investigating Officer Detective Sergeant Colin Shackleton, of Greater Manchester Police, said the gang had made 'eye-watering profits'. 'They believed they were above the law, and having access to their messages gave us real insight into their arrogant, egotistical, and apathetic nature.' Wayne Johns, of the National Crime Agency, said the agency - dubbed Britain's FBI - had 'used its global reach to trace and arrest Jamie Rothwell, not just once, but twice, bringing him back from Spain and then Holland when he went on the run a second time'. 'Fugitives should take note of the NCAs tenacity in tracing wanted offenders, and working with partners such as GMP, we will never give up on finding and returning those who have fled justice,' he added. 'UK law enforcement will continue doing everything possible to protect the public from serious and organised crime.' A dog owner was arrested after her French bulldog was left outside in over 100-degree Fahrenheit heat for more than 20 hours before it died. Olivia Viola Underwood, 31, of North Las Vegas, was arrested on May 31 after her pet Jazzy succumbed to heat stroke. The University Medical Center employee allegedly placed her French bulldog into the outdoor crate before going to her 12-hour shift on May 30 at around 5:45pm. When she returned, she did not check on Jazzy and went straight in to sleep. But she, 'had time to get home from work, order an Uber for her grandmother, change into sleeping clothes, and fall asleep,' detectives said in a report, viewed by Fox 5 Vegas. Neighbors began to notice that the dog was in distressed and appeared to be heavily panting from the hot weather, video posted to social media showed. The dog eventually became stiff and 'appeared to be dying,' around 1pm the following say, witnesses said. A neighbor entered the backyard to check on the dog and noticed Jazzy was experiencing a possible heat-induced seizure. They poured water on her body three times, but the dog stopped breathing. One of the witnesses attempted CPR, but was unsuccessful. Olivia Viola Underwood, 31, of North Las Vegas , was arrested on May 31 after her dog Jazzy died from a heat stroke When Underwood (middle) returned, she did not check on Jazzy. Neighbors began to notice that the dog was in distressed and appeared to be heavily panting from the hot weather and eventually died Underwood said her children then woke up her to tell her that people were in their backyard, The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. She told investigators that she fell asleep with her scrubs on, but video of her talking with neighbors in her backyard showed her wearing a t-shirt and shorts. 'I was sleeping! I was sleeping!' she can be heard frantically telling a female neighbor. 'I don't know what happened.' The video ended with her aggressively yelling: 'Why are you recording my house?' Clark County Animal Protection Services took the dog's body and it was preliminarily determined that the pooch appeared to have died from a heat stroke. She was arrested and told police that she would tell Jazzy that she was 'sorry for being selfish.' The dog owner told police the dog is usually kept inside, but had been taken outdoors after she 'made a mess in her crate,' Fox 5 Vegas reported. She was booked into the Clark County Detention Center on a felony charge of willful and malicious torture, maiming, or killing of a dog. Jazzy had been left in the crate for 20 hours before she was removed and neighbors began CPR efforts The dog owner told police the dog is usually kept inside, but had been taken outdoors after she 'made a mess in her crate' Underwood has since posted bail, and she was indicted by a grand jury on a cruelty to animals felony charge on Tuesday. The dog was left 'outside and locked in a crate with no food or water and with no way to cool herself from the heat of the day, resulting in Jazzy's death,' according to the indictment. Underwood has three previous documented incidents with Animal Protection Services in the county, including a 2016 incident where she left a Pitbull without enough shelter in 35-degree weather, according to The Review-Journal. She had also previously brought Jazzy to the vet in 2024, but refused medical care and left, Fox 5 Vegas reported. A pharmaceutical executive was charged in a horror wrong-way crash that killed a former Olympic swimmer, according to authorities. Brian Baldari, 47, was driving more than 100mph in the wrong direction when he caused the crash that killed Edwin Borja, 66, in Brick Township, New Jersey, on March 7. He was charged with aggravated manslaughter and vehicular homicide on Wednesday. Prosecutors said Baldari drove his Cadillac CT5 Blackwing in the wrong direction for more than two miles on route 70 before he caused the multi-vehicle collision in Lakewood. Baldari's car then crashed head-on with Borja's Mazda, starting a pile-up that involved a total of eight vehicles. The pharma executive's car caught fire in the crash and went up in flames with him trapped inside. Pharmaceutical executive Brian Baldari, 47, was driving more than 100mph in the wrong direction when he caused a deadly crash in New Jersey, according to police The crash caused the death of former Olympic swimmer Edwin Borja, 66, who was trapped in his burning car He was removed from the Cadillac and airlifted to a hospital and then a burn center in New York City to recover from his injuries. Borja was also airlifted to the hospital but died 11 days after the crash, as reported by the Daily News. One other person involved in the crash was treated in the hospital and released, while the others escaped uninjured. The former athlete lived in New Jersey but was originally from the Philippines and represented the Asian country's swim team in the 1972 Munich and 1976 Montreal Olympics. Borja's obituary said he was a widow and is survived by his children and beloved grandchildren. Baldari turned himself into police on Wednesday after he was charged, prosecutors said. Prosecutors said Baldari drove his Cadillac CT5 Blackwing in the wrong direction for more than two miles on route 70 before he caused the multi-vehicle collision Baldari turned himself into custody on Wednesday. Burn marks suffered in the crash are seen in his booking photo He remains in custody awaiting a detention hearing. In his LinkedIn profile, Baldari wrote: 'I am a seasoned Biopharmaceutical Executive with a strong record of launching 14 blockbuster brands, indications, and line extensions.' Baldari works as VP of Franchise Porfolio Management at Azurity Pharmaceuticals and shared a job listing as recently as last month. He previously worked at Allergan, Novartis and Otsuka in New Jersey, after attending Rutgers University in New Jersey. The seven-year-old boy who was struck when a Christmas drone display plummeted to the ground suffered 'traumatic, permanent injuries', a lawsuit alleges. Alezander Edgerton was hit in the face and chest by a falling object after 'multiple drones malfunctioned' at the Lake Eola Park show in Orlando, Florida last December. The youngster, whose parents allege he was immediately knocked out upon impact, was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency open-heart surgery. He spent 10 days in the hospital, including celebrating Christmas in the intensive care unit, and is still recovering from his injuries nearly eight months later. Although the drone crashed into a group of spectators, Alezander was the only person injured at the show gone awry. His mother Adriana Edgerton has now filed a lawsuit against the city, several drone manufacturers and a software firm, accusing them of 'negligence'. Alezander 'sustained traumatic, permanent injuries requiring medical treatment, and will continue to suffer physical, emotional, and financial harm,' Edgerton's complaint, which was reviewed by Daily Mail, states. The suit also accuses Orlando of failing to ensure adequate safety measures were in place and of hiring a vendor with known prior incidents of drone malfunction. Alezander Edgerton, 7, (pictured in hospital) was hit in the face and chest by a falling object after 'multiple drones malfunctioned' at the Lake Eola Park show in Orlando, Florida Sveral of the drones in the Christmas display (pictured) plummeted to the ground, immediately knocking Alezander out as a drone struck his face and chest Edgerton's lawsuit was filed in Orange County Circuit Court on August 8 against the City of Orlando, Texas-based drone show company Sky Elements LLC, two American and South Korean drone manufacturers, and a Latvian software firm. It alleges that negligence and product defects caused the 'preventable' incident at the 500-drone performance on December 21 last year. Sky Elements produced the show for the city using UVify IFO drones and flight software from SPH Engineering SIA, according to the suit. Hundreds of red and green drones were meant to fly in holiday inspired formations, but something went wrong and several small drones collided and fell into a crowd. 'Multiple drones malfunctioned, causing these drones to leave formation, deviate from the coordinated flight path and breach the designated geofenced perimeter,' the complaint states. Edgerton has accused of the city of not properly vetting the companies involved in the show and failing to ensure safety protocol were followed. 'Defendant, City of Orlando, knew, or in the exercise of reasonable care should have known that the Subject Drone Show involved high-risk aerial equipment and that the Subject Drones posed a foreseeable and unreasonable risk of harm to the public, including spectators,' the complaint states. Although the drone crashed into a group of spectators, Alezander (pictured) was the only person injured at the show gone awry Alezander spent 10 days in the hospital, (pictured) including celebrating Christmas in the intensive care unit, and is still recovering from his injuries nearly eight months later The lawsuit further accused the city of failing to confirm its vendors had 'an established track record of safety and reliability, particularly in light of known prior drone failures at past shows involving the same vendors and technology'. The Edgerton family has also accused Sky Elements of operating the drone show without sufficient redundancies, safety features or trained personnel. The firm 'owed a duty' to guests to confirm that the drones were safe and the show was properly staffed, the lawsuit alleges. Sky Elements is accused of failing to 'monitor the drones' and 'flight anomalies', as well as failing to stop the show once problems arose. The company also did not 'train, supervise and manage the solo pilot in charge of the entire 500-drone' show, the suit alleges. Edgerton's lawsuit accuses UVify and its South Korean affiliate of manufacturing defective drones that lacked 'accurate geofencing capabilities' and 'functional kill-switch protocols'. Similarly, SPH Engineering is accused of supplying inadequate software controls. The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses. Edgerton has also requested a jury trial. This is one of the drones that plummeted hundreds of feet to the ground during the holiday drone show at Lake Eola Park in December last year Still illuminated drones were seen falling into the lake and lying on the grass at Lake Eola Park The National Transportation Safety Board's preliminary report into the incident determined a missing flight path file caused the mishap. The report, released in January this year, found several minor issues broke out just minutes after the program began. At least five drones did not accept launch data, prompting officials to do a 'soft reboot' of the device network. Officials ended up pulling two drones that did not connect to the network. After the show began, the pilot reported that the drones did not launch 'uniformly' and began to crash into each other when shifting positions, the NTSB report states. NTSB investigators found the 'launch parameter file' containing the final flight data for the drones had not been sent and the 'show center was not completely aligned'. Following the disaster, several people shared videos on social media of what was supposed to be a delightful holiday event but turned into a living nightmare. Philippe, from the X account MosquitoCoFL Podcast, was at the show with his son and thought to take out his phone when the drones started dropping out of the sky. In his video, a child could be heard saying: 'Are they supposed to be falling?' Alezander 'sustained traumatic, permanent injuries requiring medical treatment, and will continue to suffer physical, emotional, and financial harm,' his mother's lawsuit alleges Edgerton named and shamed the Orlando city government and Sky Elements in a Facebook post last year, revealing how she was 'beyond terrified' as Alezander prepared to go into surgery. 'God please be with me! My baby is going into emergency heart surgery off of just trying to watch a drone show at Lake Eola Park!' she wrote. 'I am beyond words beyond terrified! City of Orlando Government and Sky Elements Drones really have some explaining to do. They will be held accountable for what was done to my son. I pray he makes it out of this!' Daily Mail has approached the city and Sky Elements for comment. A charity which asked children as young as five to write Valentine's Day cards for asylum seekers has been reported to a watchdog. Schools of Sanctuary, a small refugee-sector charity, launched the programme in primary schools across Britain last year. On February 14, 2024, children were asked to send messages of 'love and solidarity' by making handmade cards for asylum seekers. Slogans inside cards included, 'You're welcome here!', and 'I love refugee rights, stop the Rwanda scheme.' In another card, an accompanying poem read: 'Roses are red, violets are blue, refugees are people, just like me and you.' Schoolchildren were also encouraged to discuss topics such as 'kindness, humanity, and equality', and to raise money for local charities with their class or wider school. Some cards featured an orange heart, which represents compassion for those fleeing war and is inspired by the refugee nation flag, according to Together With Refugees. Regarding the matter, Laura Trott, the shadow education secretary, previously said 'children as young as five shouldn't be used to push political agendas'. And now, Sir Gavin Williamson, former Tory Education Secretary, has asked the Charity Commission to probe the branch of the City of Sanctuary charity. Schoolchildren as young as five are being asked to write Valentine's Day cards to asylum seekers by charity Schools of Sanctuary (stock image) Sir Gavin Williamson, former Tory Education Secretary, has since urged the Charity Commissiin to probe the branch of the City of Sanctuary charity He alleged Schools of Sanctuary were 'engaging in political activity', and acting in a way that was not 'consistent with its charitable purpose', The Telegraph reported. And while a Commission spokesperson confirmed has received a complaint of 'alleged political activity' concerning City of Sanctuary, it has yet to make any decision. On its website, the Schools of Sanctuary described itself as 'a registered charity and therefore apolitical. 'Our primary focus is the dignity and humanity of individuals seeking safety and the creation of a kinder, more compassionate society not the politics surrounding immigration policies.' However, the MP said there were 'numerous' examples where the charity acted politically, including their Valentine's Day Card scheme. He argued such initiatives encouraged people to participate in 'overtly political activity', noting a post including a card which read: 'Stop the Rwanda Scheme'. The former education secretary also claimed the charity's literature referred to the UK's asylum system as 'deliberately hostile' to those fleeing to Britain. Its resource pack also said government legislation fed into 'anti-immigrant sentiment, racism, and stressing community cohesion.' Laura Trott, the shadow education secretary (pictured), previously said that 'children as young as five shouldn't be used to push political agendas'. The Charity Commission has yet to reach a conclusion on the report, but if it decides to launch an inquiry and misconduct is found, it can instruct a charity to take action. Among the local authorities to partner with the Schools of Sanctuary Network is Labour-run Birmingham City Council. While teachers cannot promote political views in the classroom there is no suggestion that writing the Valentine's Day cards broke the law. A City of Sanctuary UK spokesperson said: 'We follow all Charity Commission guidelines and are confident that we are working within our charitable aims, we will fully cooperate with any Charity Commission investigation.' A Charity Commission spokesperson said: 'Concerns have been raised with us about alleged political activity linked to City of Sanctuary. We are currently assessing the information available to determine if there is a regulatory role for us.' Three men have been jailed after kidnapping a pregnant woman and threatening to cut off her fingers if her partner didn't hand over cash and jewellery. Audi Johnson, Ahmad Ghiasi, and Nicholas Mitchell bundled their victim, 36, who was six months pregnant, into a van outside her home in Enfield, north, on May 10 of last year. Her hands were bound with cable ties and they questioned her about her partner, with one threatening to 'kick the baby out your stomach' if she lied to them. They made a series of phone calls to her partner, threatening to cut off her fingers if he didn't carry out their demands for money and jewellery. Despite being blindfolded and bound at the wrist, when the woman was left alone in the van she managed to escape the vehicle. She then flagged down a cab which took her to the safety of her mother's house. The Met's Flying Squad responded to the crime immediately. They subsequently tracked the van using CCTV and were able to locate the vehicle the same night. Officers were then able to identify the suspects using DNA evidence, fingerprint impressions and mobile phone data. Three men have been jailed after kidnapping a pregnant woman and threatening to cut off her fingers if her partner didn't hand over cash and jewelry. Pictured: The rear interior of the white transit van used in the kidnapping Audi Johnson, Ahmad Ghiasi, and Nicholas Mitchell bundled their victim, 36, who was six months pregnant, into a van outside her home in Enfield, north, on May 10 of last year The Met's Flying Squad responded to the crime immediately. They subsequently tracked the van using CCTV and were able to locate the vehicle the same night. Pictured: Police officers arresting gang members The victim's hands were bound with cable ties and they questioned her about her partner, with one threatening to 'kick the baby out your stomach' if she lied to them. Pictured: Audi Johnson All three appeared at Kingston crown court today where: Audi Johnson, 35, of Cranberry Close, Northolt pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kidnap and was sentenced to five years and four months Ahmad Ghiasi, 26, of Fourth Avenue, Luton was sentenced to seven years for conspiracy to kidnap Nicholas Mitchell, 55, of Mannock Close, Barnet was sentenced to nine years for conspiracy to kidnap In a statement submitted to the court, the victim said she hasn't been able to return to her home since the kidnapping, spending the rest of her pregnancy sleeping on her sister's sofa. She said: 'The incident ruined my life. I will never be the same person again. I am having to start my life all over again. 'I will forever have fear and paranoia as part of my life now. I didn't deserve to be a victim of what happened to me. And to top it off, it was all made so much worse by being pregnant. 'This will always be something that will be part of my pregnancy, which is meant to be a happy experience, and will always be something that is a part of my daughter.' Johnson, Ghiasi and Mitchell were members of a London-based gang, who had been contracted to carry out the kidnapping. Officers were able to identify the suspects using DNA evidence, fingerprint impressions and mobile phone data They made a series of phone calls to her partner, threatening to cut off her fingers if he didn't carry out their demands for money and jewellery. Pictured: Nicholas Mitchell In a statement submitted to the court, the victim said she hasn't been able to return to her home since the kidnapping, spending the rest of her pregnancy sleeping on her sister's sofa. Pictured: Ahmad Ghiasi Detective Inspector Ari Yoganathan from the Metropolitan Police said: 'The victim was leaving her home to see her personal trainer on a morning that should have been like any other. 'That a pregnant mother should be bundled into a van and kidnapped from outside her home, bound and subjected to horrific threats is a disgusting and terrifying crime. 'Officers were able to track her attackers through forensic analysis of CCTV and phone data, recordings and intelligence. 'This verdict shows how we are taking the fight to criminal gangs and committed to supporting the local communities they intimidate and threaten.' President Donald Trump is championing the decision by First Lady Melania Trump to sue Hunter Biden for his claim that disgraced billionaire pedophile Jeffrey Epstein first introduced them to each other. 'I told her, let's go ahead and do it. I let her use my lawyers,' Trump revealed to Fox News radio host Brian Kilmeade in an interview on Thursday. 'She was very upset about it.' The first lady revealed Wednesday that she would sue Hunter for $1 billion after he refused to apologize and take down a podcast video where he made the false claim that Melania Trump was introduced to the president by Epstein. Trump repeated that the claim was false and easily disproven. 'Jeffrey Epstein had nothing to do with Melania and introducing,' he said, criticizing Hunter and other media outlets that aired the claim. 'But they do that to demean, they make up stories ... I mean, I can tell you exactly how ... it was another person, actually. I did meet through another person. But it wasn't Jeffrey Epstein.' The president pointed to his success in getting media outlets to back down in response to lawsuits, which prompted his endorsement of the lawsuit. 'I said go forward, you know, I've done pretty well on these lawsuits lately,' Trump said. In an interview with the Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan podcast, Biden cited a Daily Beast report for his claim about the first lady sourced to author Michael Wolff. Hunter Biden reacts to a billion dollar lawsuit filed by First Lady Melania Trump First lady Melania Trump threatened legal action against former President Joe Biden's eldest son Hunter The first lady's lawyer Alejandro Brito called Hunter 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 Digital. After Mrs. Trump threatened legal action, Hunter shared his public reaction on Callaghan's show. 'Fu*k that. That's not going to happen,' Biden replied, after Callaghan showed him a copy of the letter. Hunter defended his comments, citing reporting from Wolff's book, and a 2019 story from the New York Times that reported Epstein was 'claiming to people that he was the one who introduced Mr. Trump to his third wife, Melania Trump.' Other media outlets backed down from the false claim, including the Daily Beast, which retracted the story and apologized. Political operative James Carville also deleted a podcast video where he made the claim and apologized. Hunter defied the lawsuit threat and vowed to take the Trumps to court, even as he estimated the lawsuit would probably cost 'millions' of dollars. If they want to go through the process, then they know its going to cost them an enormous amount of money to do it, he said. We gotta figure out how were going to pay for it. When Donald Trump meets Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, most predict a loyal lieutenant and adept foreign policy expert will be by his side. On regulated exchange and prediction market site Kalshi, 92% of users predicted Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be there with Trump when he sits across from the Russian authoritarian leader at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, in a bold attempt to end the bloody war in Ukraine. But coming in a close second is Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who is deemed to be an 87% chance. Witkoff, who has known Trump since the 1980s and plays golf with him, has earned the nickname the 'Putin whisperer' because he's met with the Russian leader four times since January. After Wikoff, Vice President JD Vance is third at 64%. However, it's the fourth choice that could be awkward if it proves correct. And if there's one trait Americans know about Trump, it's he likes to surprise with an outsider. Sitting just above even odds as a 53% chance is rising cabinet star and secretary of the treasury, Scott Bessant. More than $227,000 in bets have been placed on who will accompany Trump to the meeting. Coming a close second is Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who is deemed to be an 87% chance. Putin has praised Trump ahead of the Friday summit in Alaska Unlike the others in the market, Bessent, 63, has been extremely critical of the Russian president in the past. In May, the former hedge fund manager gave a speech to the House Committee on Financial Services where he was asked for his thoughts on Putin. Democratic Rep. Juan Vargas asked the Treasury secretary: 'Do you consider Vladimir Putin a war criminal?' Bessent responded with a simple but direct answer: 'Yes.' Vargas then asked Bessent, 'Would you negotiate with a war criminal?' He replied: 'I think that's the nature of diplomacy, one must negotiate with both sides, sir.' Bessent referred to Putin as war criminal during congressional testimony in May Bettors on Kalshi are giving Scott Bessent even odds at attending the Putin meeting with Trump Donald Trump flanked by cabinet members Marco Rubio (left of the president) and Pete Hegseth (right) during a White House meeting Friday's upcoming summit, which will not include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, is the most significant diplomatic event between the US and Russia since the start of the war in 2022. Putin convened a meeting with Kremlin officials on Thursday where he praised Trump by stating he believed the president was making 'quite energetic and sincere efforts' toward peace in the region. The Russian leader suggested long-term peace could be reached if the US included strategic offensive weapons treaties in the upcoming negotiations. A health board has admitted it broke the law after it failed to complete a legally required assessment before letting a trans doctor use the womens only changing room. NHS Fife said it had not completed an equality impact assessment before allowing male-born medic Dr Beth Upton to use the female-only facilities at Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has now ordered the under-fire health board to carry one out immediately in yet another extraordinary intervention. NHS Fife has been plunged into turmoil amid an employment tribunal veteran nurse Sandie Peggie brought against it, in which she has claimed being made to get changed next to the trans-woman was unlawful. The watchdog first wrote to NHS Fife bosses in February, following the first two weeks of the landmark tribunal, to remind them of their obligations under the Equality Act and how they had a duty to assess how their policies and practices affect people with protected characteristics. But this week the EHRC revealed the health board failed to meet the requirement of having a equality impact assessment, which is a legal duty. Tess White, equalities spokesman at the Scottish Conservatives, said the latest revelation showed senior health board bosses must go. The MSP said: This damning directive from the EHRC confirms that, on top of being negligent, incompetent and biased, NHS Fife broke the law in relation to the Sandie Peggie case. NHS Fife said it did not carry out an equality impact assessment before allowing male-born medic Dr Beth Upton use the female-only facilities at Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy Sandie Peggie encountered Dr Upton in the female-only changing room in 2023 Its just one failure, and one revelation, after another. Its abundantly clear that the positions of the Chief Executive and senior health board colleagues are completely untenable. The shameful admission from the health board confirms that Sandie Peggie was hung out to dry from the very beginning of this tawdry scandal simply for standing up for her rights as a woman. Fairness and accountability must prevail. Surely John Swinney and his SNP colleagues can no longer retain confidence in those in charge of this dysfunctional health board? The First Minister must clear out those at the top of NHS Fife and finally demand that it, and all other public bodies, upholds the clear and unequivocal Supreme Court ruling entitling women to single-sex spaces. Mrs Peggie had encountered Dr Upton in the female-only changing room in 2023, but had waited outside until the trans-identifying medic left. But on Christmas Eve that year she challenged the junior doctor - the exact circumstances of which are disputed - and was suspended from work and her actions subject to an internal investigation. Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chairman of the EHRC, said all Scottish health boards must comply with the 2010 Equality Act. She said: Earlier this year we asked NHS Fife to provide us with information on the provision of single-sex changing facilities for staff and the rights of different groups in the application of these policies. At that point NHS Fife confirmed that no equality impact assessment was available. Undertaking an equality impact assessment of relevant policies or practices, and publishing the results, are requirements of the PSED [Public Sector Equality Duty] Specific Duties in Scotland. We believe NHS Fife failed to meet these requirements and told them to carry one out immediately. Maya Forstater, chief executive of human rights charity Sex Matters, said: This directive to NHS Fife is an unprecedented intervention from the EHRC and the kind of muscle that has been lacking from regulators across the board since gender ideology first took hold of public institutions. While long overdue, this is a clear instruction to NHS Fife - and in fact all employers - that it cannot get away with continuing to flout the Equality Act. An NHS Fife spokesman said: We are committed to working constructively with the EHRC to provide assurance that we fully understand, and are meeting, our obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and the Public Sector Equality Duty. This includes considering the implications of the recent Supreme Court ruling and the EHRCs interim guidance. A comprehensive review and audit of our facilities has been completed, and an Equality Impact Assessment is underway. This will be concluded and published by 30 September 2025. Our priority is to ensure that all NHS Fife policies and practices protect the rights of our staff and comply fully with equality legislation. A missing Texas man was miraculously found underground after he was heard shouting for help from inside a septic tank. The unidentified 29-year-old man was rescued by firefighters on August 8 after a homeowner in Edinburg - about three hours outside of San Antonio - reported his uncle was missing. The homeowner started to worry about his family member that morning after he failed to show up to his usual meeting place, a daycare, according to the Hidalgo County Sheriffs Office. While performing the wellness check at 9.05am, a deputy soon 'heard a faint noise coming from the ground' in the backyard, the sheriff's office said. Soon enough, authorities discovered 'the man trapped underneath a tire in a septic tank' after falling 'through a small opening,' the Edinburg Fire Department said. The victim was stuck in the smelly tank for about 12 hours as he was last seen around 9pm the night before, authorities said. The fire department and medics quickly arrived at the scene to assist with the rescue as more than 15 first responders were seen guiding the man out of the confined space. A dramatic image showed the victim's head poking out of the ground as he wore large headphones while rescuers guided him out. A 29-year-old Texas man was rescued by firefighters after he fell into a septic tank on August 8 Authorities discovered 'the man trapped underneath a tire in a septic tank' after falling 'through a small opening.' (Pictured: The underground tank) The team of firefighters soon were able to break him free after cutting through the concrete and pulling him out of the tank safely. He was taken to a hospital and remains in stable condition. Daily Mail contacted the Hidalgo County Sheriffs Office and Edinburg Fire Department for more information. Edinburg locals expressed their gratitude toward the officials who saved the man's life after the fire department posted about the rescue on Facebook. One wrote: 'Now that's professional. Awesome job everyone!' 'Thank you Edinburg Fire Department,' wrote another. While many were thankful the man made it out safely, some were curious how it happened in the first place. A commenter asked: 'May someone explain how this happened so we can avoid this happening to someone else?' The victim was taken to the hospital and remains in stable condition Frank Zungia, a septic tank professional in Edinburg, explained to Daily Mail what he thinks might have caused the man to fall in. 'Equipment and lids should last about 10 years or so. That's why it's good to do preventive maintenance every three to five years, so you can check if they're still in good shape or starting to go bad,' Zungia said. 'In this case, it could have already been deteriorating underground. The gentleman may have stepped in the wrong spot, and it gave way. It finished deteriorating and collapsed, sending him all the way through.' Zungia heard about the frightening incident himself and tried to see if he could be of any help, he explained. 'I heard about it and actually called one of my buddies in the fire department to see if there was anything we could do to help them out,' the expert stated. 'But by then, they were already done maybe they needed help replacing the lid or something, I guess, but no. Everything had already been taken care of.' When asked about tires within septic tanks, such as the one that trapped the man, Zungia was confused and suggested it might have been a pipe, specifically a 'burning line.' An investigation into the case is ongoing, according to the sheriff's office. The long arm of the law had the good grace to look embarrassed as it was extended to block my passage across the street and force me on a detour. Im sorry, I know its daft, but I cant let you past, said the police officer. No, its fine, I said, feeling his pain. Youre just doing your job. It was, in fact, insanely daft. It wasnt remotely fine. On this day the policemans job was to stop members of the public going about their business so that Spider-Man could go about his. There was no getting around it. Spider-Man had this city cop in his pocket. The constable didnt like it. Neither did I. In the centre of Glasgow, thats been the way of it for a fortnight a comic book superhero not saving the day but commandeering it for profit. Theyre closing off whole streets for him, stopping people getting to their work for him, restricting parking for him, telling pedestrians where they may and may not walk for him and Police Scotland, undermanned and overstretched, are among the many drafted in to do his bidding. On some days Peter Parkers alter ego has run amok. Great balls of fire have been seen yards from our office. There goes yon Spider-Man again: a law unto himself. Filming for the new Spiderman movie took over the centre of Glasgow for a fortnight For those perplexed by any of the above, let me confess that I share much of your confusion. Little of it makes any sense to me. But the apparent explanation for a fictional, arachnid-crazed crime fighter having dominion over a key area of my home city is they are making another Spider-Man movie. You may wonder, as I do, whether there might be enough movies out there already about a spandex-clad do-gooder who catches criminals by shooting webs at them. The answer seems to be no. The existing 10 are insufficient. You may also wonder what brings Spider-Man to Glasgow when everybody (who bothers about such matters) knows that his hood is New York. Well, he is wreaking chaos here in Glasgow because it is too expensive to put him in a movie in his native city. Think of the levels of inconvenience it would bring to the Big Apple having Spider-Man scaling buildings, swinging above the traffic, jumping onto speeding tanks Understandably, the costs involved in gaining the city fathers sanction for extreme disruption of this mature are prohibitive. So, what then? Is Spider-Man on holiday in Scotland in this movie? No, silly, Glasgows role here is to kid on that it is New York, to put on a disguise as any stunt double might do and pretend. And the costs involved in gaining our city fathers sanction to turn its busiest district into a movie set? Minimal. Were just charmed that they want to be here. Arent we? You may be aware that Glasgow has quite the filmography to its name as understudy for cities which were unavailable for the role. Tanks and New York taxis were seen on the streets of Glasgow during the filming It pretended to be Philadelphia for the 2013 movie World War Z in which marauding zombies swept across George Square. Fair enough. It was a decent movie. It has acting credits for playing Gotham City, the crime-ridden metropolis where Batman does his caped crusading. Gotham doesnt really exist, which makes Glasgows participation more understandable. The Batgirl film shot here in 2022 was so dreadful it never saw the light of day, which makes it less so. The city has been asked to play New York so many times it should have a complex about typecasting. Credits include doubling as vintage New York for Indiana Jones and as futuristic New York for the forthcoming Ghostwriter. Nothing if not versatile, the Dear Green Place pretends to be London too. Several instalments of the Fast and Furious franchise have given our financial district the car chases, the crashes, bangs and wallops to avoid the hassle and expense of saddling the capital with them. Arent we the lucky ones? In short, Glasgow is out the door with offers to play cities other than itself. Why? Because it is happy to work for peanuts. Because, like some naive teen starlet in need of a hard-nosed agent, it will go to the most extraordinary lengths to accommodate the most unreasonable demands of the movie business. Run that by us again. You want us to jam up the city centre, shut down our busiest streets, re-route our buses, make it virtually impossible for emergency vehicles to get anywhere near emergencies, allow weeks of disruption to offices and shops, have our council tax and rate payers shunted out of the way by film set security types who suddenly think they own the place and see if the police will help out on crowd control? Shouldnt be a problem. Where do we sign? And all to save Hollywood the expense of shelling out for the real McCoy. I might weather the inconvenience more stoically if Glasgow were the actual setting of these movies rather than the bargain basement stand-in for the locations the production couldnt afford. It would trouble me less if I could tell myself we were suffering for someones art. But an 11th Spider-Man movie? Fast and Furious 9? Lets us be frank. We are suffering for junk. It would, of course, be disingenuous to suggest the whole of the city centre feels the way I do. Much of it is awestruck. Behind every metal barrier stopping people getting where they need to be an army of rubberneckers demonstrate there is nowhere else they need to be. What could be more important than standing there for hours, phone cameras in hand, in the hope of bagging a grainy picture of actor Tom Holland in a Spider-Man suit? Ive seen parents with infants dressed up as the superhero himself, which is cute, but I cannot imagine how the reality of a day on the edge of a film set very little happening for too long from too far away to see it anyway can match up to the magic they had in mind. There are, I am assured, clear economic benefits to the Glasgow City Council strategy of charging Hollywood next to nothing to stage invasions at regular interviews. Think of all the extra business for hotels, bars and shops the film crews bring. Think of the footfall resulting from those turning up to stare at them all day. There are claims Glasgows niche role in masquerading as other cities in the movies has earned it 500 million in recent years. If true, someone is making a profit. But it isnt the council which, in common with every other one in Scotland, is pleading poverty. It isnt the businesses whose staff cant get to work because work is in this next shot. And it certainly isnt the majority of city centre users, displaced for an extended period by a comic book character. If Glasgow thinks it is going places in the movie business, shouldnt it drive a harder bargain? Must our gridiron streets and the Victorian treasures lining them work for buttons on every script that comes along, however moronic? Is it really the rising star of the film world or is it Hollywoods pushover? Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spent at least $170,000 of government cash bringing ISIS brides from Syria, newly released government documents show. Eight women were flown back business class and housed at the $300-per-night Montreal Airport Marriott, where they ran up exorbitant bar tabs at taxpayers' expense. The women had travelled to the Middle East to join the terrorist organization, but were given a luxurious homecoming when they returned to Canada in 2022 and 2023. Documents first shared by Global News showed that Global Affairs Canada, the Canadian government's diplomatic department, shelled out for their repatriation. In one hotel room, expenses ran over $1000 for two nights after ISIS brides ran up a $95 bar tab. Another room ran to $850, due to charges for junk food and $25 on red, white and sparkling wines. Canadian taxpayers also footed a $2,800 catering bill, including $24 sandwiches at the hotel restaurant bar, and $86 on snacks and over-the-counter drugs at the hotel gift shop. The ISIS brides also left a $7 tip for two $4 teas in one stay, alongside purchases of Doritos and chocolate bars. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government spent at least $170,000 bringing ISIS brides back from Syria and paying for their hotel bar tabs, newly released government documents show The women were brought back to Canada after ISIS fell in Syria and they were held in detention camps, prompting their families to launch a legal battle in Canadian Federal Court to demand their return. According to the documents, the women chose to join ISIS while living in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec. The first wave of women brought back from Syria began in October 2022 with Kimberly Polman and Oumaima Chouay, who cost $10,863, per the reported documents. Polman has since been charged with terrorism offenses for allegedly joining an ISIS battalion that trained women to fight for the terrorist organization. And Chouay pleaded guilty in July to participating in ISIS operations, and was sentenced to a day in prison. In April 2023, the Canadian government paid for four women and their 10 children to return, including Aimee Vasconez, a Canadian woman who converted to Islam and traveled to Syria with her ISIS fighter husband Ali Jabbar before he was killed in battle. Canadian authorities said she then married a second ISIS fighter, 'joined an ISIS battalion and has likely been trained in military tactics, weapons and techniques'. Ontario resident Ammara Amjad was also part of the second wave, and she is now facing trial on terrorism charges. The second wave cost $132,445, which Canadian officials admitted went $25,000 over budget due to 'higher than expected hotel costs'. Among the Canadian ISIS brides who were brought back were Kimberly Polman (pictured being returned in October 2022), who has since been charged with terrorism offenses for allegedly joining an ISIS battalion that trained women to fight for the terrorist organization In April 2023, the Canadian government also paid to return Aimee Vasconez, a Canadian woman who converted to Islam and traveled to Syria with her ISIS fighter husband Ali Jabbar before he was killed in battle (pictured) The emergence of the documents was quickly condemned by Secure Canada, a group of Canadian families whose loved ones were killed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Sheryl Saperia, the group's CEO, said that she was 'deeply troubled' by the 'extravagant homecoming' the ISIS brides received. 'Such spending raises serious questions about government priorities, public trust, and the integrity of our system,' she said. She added that victims' families have often had to pay their own way to attend legal hearings for terrorists who killed their family members, while the Canadian government 'rewards those who betrayed their country and broke the law.' 'The stark contrast between how our government treats perpetrators and how it treats their victims should alarm every Canadian and offend every taxpayer,' Saperia said. Dure Ahmed, a repatriated Canadian woman with ties to ISIS was married to a notorious fighter who is now in a U.S. prison for his role in the executions of four American hostages. She was not included in the 2022-23 repatriation costs The emergence of the documents was quickly condemned by the families of victims of 9/11 terrorist attacks, with Secure Canada CEO Sheryl Saperia (pictured) saying she was 'deeply troubled' by the 'extravagant homecoming' the ISIS brides received Global News reports that it requested documents on the costs of the repatriations over two years ago through the Access to Information Act, but Canadian officials only released the materials on August 7. While the expenses covered the costs of the women, their children and government staff, the outlet reported that they did not include the cost of sending Canadian officials to get the women from Syria. The $170,000 bill covers only the costs of receiving them in Montreal before they continued back to their respective provinces. The diplomatic department added that it was withholding 50 pages of the spending documents that are 'currently under consultation with a foreign government.' In a statement, Global Affairs Canada said: 'While we cannot comment on specific expenditures related to the operation, (the department) assumed certain immediate costs to support the safe return and well-being of the women and children repatriated to Canada.' Alleged aggressors in the viral Cincinnati brawl launched their attack before racial slurs were uttered, a court was told. Five of the seven suspects charged in the violent attack appeared in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Thursday morning to be arraigned on additional charges. During the hearing, Prosecutor Kip Guinan revealed that the 'n-word' was not said until nearly two minutes after the July 26 assault began, Fox News reports. Guinan's claim is in direct conflict with defense's allegation that the various fights that broke out in downtown were 'triggered by racial slurs'. The prosecutor also said the state has obtained two additional videos from nearby cameras offering new perspectives of the beatdown. Guinan noted the footage has not yet been made public. Dominique Kittle, DeKyra Vernon, Patrick Rosemond, Jermaine Matthews, Aisha Devaughn, Gregory Wright and Montianez Merriweather have all been arrested in connection with the brawl. They are facing various charges, including aggravated riot and felonious assault. If convicted they could face up to 30 years in prison. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to their respective charges. Dominique Kittle, 37, appeared before the Hamilton County Common Pleas Courtroom for his arraignment Thursday (pictured) during which the prosecution branded him 'a grave danger to the public' Jermaine Matthews, who the prosecutors claims was the 'leader' of the beatdown and a primary instigator, also appeared before the court on Thursday (pictured) Dekyra Vernon, 24, appeared before Municipal Court Judge Michael Peck during her arraignment on July 30 (pictured). Her bond was lowered from from $200,000 to $25,000 during Thursday's hearing Montianez Merriweather, 34, is accused of being the 'catalyst' in the July 26 beating in downtown that left six people injured. He was initially charged with aggravated assault over the brawl, but was later indicted by a grand jury with illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. He appeared in court Thursday where a judge determined his bond would remain at $500,000. Jermaine Matthews, who Guinan branded the 'leader' of the beatdown and a primary instigator, also appeared before the court. His attorney argued Matthews, 39, had been 'slapped' by a white man when the fight erupted. The prosecution, however, claims Matthews 'is the man who started it'. Matthews was released on bail shortly after the attack. The judge on Thursday granted him the same bond amount and permitted him to work. Aisha Devaughn, who is accused of punching a woman identified only as Holly in the face, saw her bond dropped from $300,000 to $25,000 at the hearing. Aisha Devaughn, who is accused of punching a woman identified only as Holly in the face, saw her bond dropped from $300,000 to $25,000 at Thursday's arraignment (pictured) Montianez Merriweather, 34, enters Hamiliton County Common Pleas Courtroom for his arraignment on Thursday. Merriweather is accused of being the 'catalyst' in the July 26 beating in downtown that left six people injured After his arrest, two relatives of Merriweather (pictured) told WLWT that the race of the victims had catapulted the case to national attention Vernon's attorney Clyde Bennett claims the case against her was fueled by race and politics. But the prosecution dismissed the allegation as 'offensive' Devaughn, 25, is said to have 'inserted herself' into the fight and was not initially provoked, Guinan told the court. Matthews reportedly vowed he was going to 'go get her' as he left the courtroom after Devaughn's bond was lowered, Fox reported. The judge also lowered Dekyra Vernon's bond from $200,000 to $25,000 and ordered that she stay away from the downtown area. Her attorney Clyde Bennett claims the case against Vernon, 24, was fueled by race and politics. But the prosecution dismissed the allegation as 'offensive'. Dominique Kittle, 37, was also arraigned Thursday with Guinan branding him 'a grave danger to the public'. Kittle's attorney told the court he is a paranoid schizophrenic and was previously found not guilty on separate charges by 'reason of insanity'. He was ordered to remain in custody pending a mental health evaluation. His bond amount remains unchanged. Matthews, Merriweather, Vernon, Devaughn and Kittle have all been charged with three counts of alleged felonious assault, three charges of assault and two charges of aggravated rioting. Montianez Merriweather was initially charged with aggravated assault over the brawl, but was later indicted by a grand jury with illegally possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. He appeared in court Thursday (pictured) where a judge determined his bond would remain at $500,000 Aisha Devaughn, 25, enters Hamilton County Common Pleas Courtroom for her arraignment on Thursday, August 14, 2025 Patrick Rosemond, 38, also faces the same charges, but was not in court Thursday. Rosemond was arrested in Georgia last week and is awaiting extradition to Ohio. Officials say he could appear before the court as early as Friday. Gregory Wright, 32, was arrested earlier this week and charged with alleged aggravated riot and aggravated robbery. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Tuesday and his bond was set at $100,000. The now-viral brawl sparked massive outrage after horror images emerged of a female victim with black eyes and a swollen, bruised face. In shocking footage of the fight, a man in a white t-shirt was shoved to the ground and beaten by two men as other members of the crowd jeered and joined in. The gang beat the man for nearly a minute as he lay in the middle of the street, seemingly stepping on his head multiple times. 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 Gregory Wright, 32, was arrested earlier this week and charged with alleged aggravated riot and aggravated robbery. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Tuesday and his bond was set at $100,000 When the barrage of attacks temporarily stopped, he was seen attempting to stand - but immediately fell over in apparent disorientation. A woman in a black dress rushed to his aid, but was attacked by the crowd, suffering two blows to the face. The impact caused her to fall, with her head slamming onto the pavement. Blood spewed from her mouth. The woman, identified only as Holly, said that police 'acted nonchalant' when they arrived at the scene and did not call for backup or an ambulance. She defended 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.' After his arrest, two relatives of Merriweather told WLWT that the race of the victims had catapulted the case to national attention. 'If it was an African American woman who got knocked out... We wouldn't have been going through all this,' one of the women said. A new angle of what happened prior to the brawl shows an unidentified black man being slapped by the unknown white man The woman involved in the brawl, known only as Holly, is seen here on the ground following the horrific attack Both sides of Holly's face were extremely bruised following the assault, with her right eye a dark shade of purple and almost closed over due to the swelling Another woman, believed to be Merriweather's mother Clarissa, said her son is an honor roll student with 'a biracial child' as she denied he was racist. 'He's not a racist,' she said. 'It wasn't like they're thugs... these Russians was walking down the street and on the video he said "you wanna mess with these Russians?"' 'He smacked the first guy... my child is in school, he has five kids, he's on the B honor roll in school.' Police have described Merriweather as the 'catalyst' for the alleged 'coordinated attack.' Nicola Sturgeon is under fire after denying blame for the cancel culture which led to deputy First Minister Kate Forbes being banned from an Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue. She also refused to apologise to the women vilified for opposing her botched gender reforms. The Scottish Tories accused Ms Sturgeon of being delusional for not accepting she had fuelled a cancel culture by branding her critics intolerant and bigoted. Her obsession with gender ideology and intolerance towards womens groups poured fuel on the fire, the party said. During the official launch of her memoir, Frankly, at the Edinburgh book festival, she said: The world is literally her oyster and she may move abroad It could be another 10 years before SNP policies have an effect She received cruel messages about rape and her miscarriage online Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, with broadcaster Kirsty Wark ahead of the Edinburgh International Book Festival launch event of her memoir 'Frankly' Summerhall Arts venue this week caused outrage after indicating Kate Forbes wont be allowed back because of her views on trans issues. The Scottish Daily Mail revealed how bosses apologised to performers after the Deputy First Minister appeared at a Fringe event last week. Some artists set up a safe room, claiming to be terrified by the 5ft 2in MSP. The venue said booking Ms Forbes, who has criticised gender reforms and backs single-sex spaces for biological women, was an oversight they would prevent happening again. It led to calls for a recent award of 608,000 of public funding to be withdrawn. After appearing at the Edinburgh Book Festival yesterday, Ms Sturgeon, who now admits she should have paused her gender reforms, was asked about the ban. She said: I dont agree with cancel culture and I dont agree with that. The Book Festival has been criticised for failing to include gender critical writers, including the authors of the best-selling essay collection The Women Who Wouldnt Wheesht. Copies of Nicola Sturgeon's memoirs on sale at a Waterstones shop in Glasgow While the National Library of Scotland has been accused of cowardice for pulling the book from a major exhibition after staff complained about it promoting hate speech. Asked if she bore responsibility for the censorious atmosphere, Ms Sturgeon said: No, I dont. Pressed on whether she would say sorry to people who felt vilified for their gender-critical views, she said: No, I wont apologise. People on both sides of this debate are vilified. Ive been vilified and received some awful abuse - nothing like the abuse trans people are getting right now. I tried to stand up for rights of one of most stigmatised minorities in the country. I dont believe that is in conflict with the rights of women which I have stood up for and will continue to stand up for. She added: As a frontline politician for three decades, I am not without responsibility for the state of public discourse. Ive got to take my share of collective responsibility. But I think weve also all got to just stop shouting abuse at each other and take a step back and try to find out a way of find a way of agreeing and disagreeing. Conservative MSP Roz McCall said: Its frankly shameful that Nicola Sturgeon still refuses to apologise to women and girls for putting them in harms way. For years she arrogantly dismissed their valid concerns, vilified them, and sacrificed their rights to appease extremist gender activists. Across Scotland, public bodies are still unpicking the chaos caused by her botched gender reforms - yet Nicola Sturgeon and her partner in crime John Swinney refuse to admit they were wrong. We saw that this week at the Fringe and its delusional for her to deny that this cancel culture doesnt stem from the gender policies she pushed. Vile abuse on either side of this debate is completely unacceptable, but its impossible to deny that Nicola Sturgeons obsession with gender ideology and intolerance towards womens groups poured fuel on the fire. The ex FM also revealed she received a rape threat and vile comments about her miscarriage after the release of her memoir. She said: These are people who call themselves feminists, standing up for womens rights, saying things about me, such as when I described my miscarriage experience the other day, I havent laughed as much in years, accusing me of making it up, people saying they hope Im raped in a toilet. These are the kind of things that go in both directions. Earlier, on stage with broadcaster Kirsty Wark to discuss her memoir Frankly, Ms Sturgeon was cheered by fans for taking a swipe at Joanna Cherry, KC. The former SNP MP, who was ostracised by party colleagues for opposing gender reforms, said this week Ms Sturgeon was Stalinist in how she ran the SNP. Ms Sturgeon said: There are certain people in this world who spend a lot more time thinking about me than I spend thinking about them. She also admitted her flagship pledge to close the attainment gap in schools could take twice as long to deliver as she promised. She vowed in 2016 to end the gulf in exam results between rich and poor areas in a decade. But she suggested yesterday it could be another 10 years before SNP policies had an effect - as she hadnt realised tackling poverty was needed to address the poverty-related problem. She said: Unless youre changing the conditions kids are growing up in, then youre not going to have the impact, and thats what I learned along the way. Some of the things that I am proudest of are the Scottish Child Payment, the doubling of early years education, the baby box. These are things that are lifting children out of poverty, and I believe in time will make a difference. Ms Wark replied incredulously: In time? That was ten years ago. That gap has not been closed. In time is leaving a whole generation of children without that. Ms Sturgeon: It will take longer than I appreciated or allowed myself to appreciate at the time, and that was my mistake. But it will work through the system. I absolutely believe that things like Scottish Child Payment, if were looking back 10 years from now, the benefits of that in school attainment, in the attainment gap, will be seen. Scottish Tory education spokesman Miles Briggs said: Nicola Sturgeon claimed that education was her top priority, but her record was disastrous - and now she says it will be another decade before progress is made on the flagship promise she made 10 years ago. It would be laughable if it wasnt so serious for the young people she has let down. Asked why there was so little in her memoir about Scotlands drugs deaths crisis on her watch and if she owed the public an explanation, Ms Sturgeon said: Its for the public to read my book and make up their minds about that and other issues. A hiker was killed by an venomous snake bite in a Tennessee state park last week, officials said. The male victim, who has not been identified, was discovered at Savage Gulf State Park, about 95 miles from Nashville. He was reportedly found a half-mile down a hiking trail on Friday. Officials said the hiker had picked up the snake, which was identified as a Timber rattlesnake. 'It is believed that the hiker had an allergic reaction, however full details of [the] actual cause of death have not been released,' Matthew Griffith of the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency told Fox News Digital. Paramedics performed CPR at the scene before transporting the hiker to the hospital, where he was later declared dead. A hiker died after he was bitten by a venomous rattlesnake at Savage Gulf State Park in Tennessee on Friday A witness told officials that the hiker picked up the snake before the animal bit him in the hand According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the Timber rattle snake is 'a large, heavy-bodied snake (36.0 to 60.0 inches long) with a large, triangular head, vertical pupils, and the characteristic rattle at the end of the tail.' They are the largest and most dangerous of the four venomous snake species found in Tennessee. The snake kills its prey 'by a venomous bite, in which the venom is injected by fangs located in the snake's mouth.' In most cases, their bites s are not fatal - less than 1 in 600 bites result in death, according to the US Forest Service. In the US, about 7,000 to 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes every year, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, only about five of them die annually. Griffith with the Grundy County Emergency Management Agency sent prayers to the family and asked people to be vigilant about snakes. Timber rattlers, or timber rattlesnakes, are considered one of the most dangerous species of snake in the country due to their deadly venom, long fangs and large size 'As always it's strongly recommended to have some kind of first aid supplies while enjoying outdoor recreational activities and be mindful of wildlife and the dangers that some wildlife may pose,' he said. 'If you encounter a snake, simply remain calm and do not attempt to handle it. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention.' Timber rattlers, or timber rattlesnakes, are one of approximately 30 venomous species in the US, and can be found from Texas to New England. In May, an Arizona toddler was bitten by a a diamondback rattlesnake and had to be injected with 30 vials of antivenom. One-year-old Cara and her mother were walking around their property near Florence when the mom went to throw away a piece of trash. When she returned, she noticed the young girl 'had four puncture wounds on the top of her foot, in the little window of her little jelly shoe, and behind her, to her left was a snake coiled up.' Nicola Sturgeon is a creature of Scotlands elites, and those elites are going out of their way to promote her memoirs. The latest boost came via an Edinburgh Book Festival chit chat with Kirsty Wark. Wark has a talent for dismantling an interviewees credibility by repeating their own words back to them in a flat tone of Sahara-dry scepticism. Its a subtle technique that can be devastating when deployed against a dissembling minister or public official. And while she honed her interrogative gifts on Sturgeon once or twice during their hour-long exchange, it wasnt Sturgeon she wanted in front of her but Alex Salmond, a former nemesis of both women. Recounting how Salmond had brought Sturgeon on board as a candidate in 1992, contending that he needed you to change the proposition of the SNP; you were the chosen one, Wark ventured that there was almost a thread of coercive control from Alex Salmond in this book. Wowzers. Where did that come from? Sturgeon said she wouldnt use that term, telling the audience that Salmond helped her build up her confidence. Still, she had plenty else to say about him, including her assertion that Alec didnt want to see the SNP succeed without him. She certainly put his fears to rest. Nicola Sturgeon meets the media at the Edinburgh Festival Wark pressed her on the failure to eliminate the attainment gap, as promised. Sturgeon put this down to a lack of appreciation on her part of the role played by poverty. This was a telling admission and called for more probing than it received. While Sturgeon was no doubt attempting to shift the blame to Westminster austerity, she revealed herself as the sort of first minister who would make a landmark policy pledge without doing sufficient research to grasp that poverty was the principal driver of the poverty-related attainment gap. We knew Sturgeon governed in headlines, but she appears not to have read beyond them. Wark began to rhyme off some of the many failings in Scottish education when a baby cried out in the audience. Itll be all right. When you come around, she said, softly. Sturgeon dug her heels in, insisting the educational benefits of the Scottish Child Payment would be seen in another ten years. Thus did judge me on my record become judge me on my long-term predictions. We are witnessing a cynical media campaign to invent a legacy for a middling politician who spent nearly two decades at or near the very top of government and has almost nothing to show for it. What exactly did she do to merit a written account of her political life? Asked by Wark to list her achievements, she managed the baby box and the Scottish Child Payment. Thats barely enough for a book jacket, let alone a book. Then again, she did manage to pen a memoir despite her well-documented memory problems. Thats no small feat. She evidently objects to this line of enquiry, since she reminded Wark that she had to fight eight elections during her time in Bute House. While its unfortunate that her political career was interrupted so often by democracy, Sturgeon has yet to say what shed have done if the ballot box had been cleared from her path. I suspect the answer is: not much. Policy is hard, much harder than politics. All the selfies in the world wont change a single stubborn outcome. Sturgeon wasnt hindered on policy by unfortunately timed elections. She was inconsequential because she is insubstantial. An insight into her mindset came when the topic turned to trans rights. We heard, once again, that this whole issue has been hijacked and weaponised by people who are transphobic and homophobic and racist. Sturgeon shared some of the repugnant posts about her on social media from gender-critical feminists, including mockery of her miscarriage and hopes that she is raped in a public toilet. Despicable stuff, and when Wark suggested these were the extremes, she shot back: I dont think that is just at the extreme. Sturgeon offered no evidence for this assessment, then went on to dismiss the suggestion that trans rights were incompatible with womens rights, saying: You dont tar the entire group with the bad people. The two statements were no more than a few minutes apart, and yet she appeared blissfully unaware of their obvious contradiction. It wasnt the elections that were holding her back. Spanish Police have arrested a woman accused of posing as a doctor in Colombia and of treating hundreds of patients without a licence. Catherine, 37, posed as a doctor in her native country from 2020 to 2023, treating up to a staggering 655 patients. The woman, who was on Interpol's most wanted list, was detained in the town of Catarroja, in the eastern region of Valencia, during a joint operation with Colombian authorities, Spain's National Police said on X. 'She posed as a doctor in Colombia, where she treated 665 patients. Colombian authorities were searching for her for impersonation, fraud, and document forgery,' the police stated. According to local reports, Catherine had amassed a huge fortune thanks to her scandalous deception. The fake doctor had a large patient list in Barranquilla, Colombia, and even worked at the Maternal and Child Hospital in the city of Soledad. It was there she treated several hundreds of patients, including minors, and charged large sums of money to her patients without any training. She had reportedly worked at several other health facilities in Colombia for three years before fleeing to Spain, where she lived with her partner and child. Catherine, a 37-year-old Colombian woman, posed as a doctor in her native country from 2020 to 2023, treating up to a staggering 655 patients The woman, who was on Interpol 's most wanted list, was detained in the town of Catarroja, in the eastern region of Valencia , during a joint operation with Colombian authorities The fake doctor had a large patient list in Barranquilla, Colombia, pictured, and even worked at the Maternal and Child Hospital in the city of Soledad Catherine began her false medical practice during the Covid-19 pandemic, when she showed up at the Colombian Police Clinic with a fake resume as a general practitioner and more than five years of experience, reports Ok Diario. From there, she moved to the Maternal and Child hospital, further adding to her resume and career portfolio. It has also been reported that Catherine had believed her false documentation was real as she had 'purchased the degree from a real doctor'. However, it has been revealed that she had also been scammed by a con artist who was not a real medical professional. Colombian agents located Catherine after she fled in the Valencian Community and requested assistance from Interpol and the Spanish National Police. It was finally the National Police's Fugitive Group that managed to track her down. The fake doctor, who lived in Valencia with her husband and son, had kept changing addresses to avoid being found. She will soon be handed over to the National Court to decide her fate in the coming days. The CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) issued a groveling apology after he refused to show a documentary on the October 7 massacre over fears it would upset Hamas. 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. But, on Wednesday TIFF announced it was pulling the film because Hamas did not give organizers permission to use bodycam footage shot by terrorists, according to Israeli media. In response, Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa'ar, slammed the organizers, and likened their decision to cancel the movie due to a lack of Hamas 'clearance' to asking for Adolf Hitler's approval for Auschwitz footage, reported i24NEWS. After controversy unfolded about the announcement, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey issued an apology stating that 'claims that the film was rejected due to censorship are unequivocally false.' The Canadian film critic added he was trying to find a way to show the film after all and that it was 'never my intention to offend or alienate anyone...' '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. Cameron Bailey (pictured in 2024), the CEO of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), issued a groveling apology after organizers said they would not be showing a documentary on the October 7 massacre over fears it would upset Hamas The festival was set to show 'The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue,' 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. (Pictured: Dead bodies seen on the ground in Kibbutz Beeri in southern Israel, October 11, 2023) '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,' he added. The festival had originally approved the film, which follows Tibon on his mission to save his son, his wife and two daughters who 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 organizers 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 festival had originally approved the film, which follows Tibon on his mission to save his son, his wife and two daughters who were attacked by Hamas-led terrorists at their home on Kibbutz Nahal Oz on October 7 '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. Reacting to the films cancellation, the documentarys subject Noam Tibon (pictured in December 2023) said it was 'absurd and outrageous' '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 cancellation, the documentarys subject Tibon said it was 'absurd and outrageous.' 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.' Donald Trump insisted Vladimir Putin 'is not going to mess around with me' on the eve of their crunch summit. The eyes of the world will be on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, where the two men are due meet at 8.30pm UK time on Friday. It will be the first time any major Western leader, aside from Putin's friend Viktor Orban, has met with the dictator since his illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. From the Oval Office on Thursday night, the US President said he would be able to know if the meeting is likely to prove productive in the first few minutes. 'If it's a bad meeting it will end very quickly,' he said. 'And if it's a good meeting we're going to end up getting peace very quickly.' Asked if he felt Putin has a 'strong hand', Mr Trump said: 'Well, he came to our country.' He said he believes the dictator 'would like to see a deal' adding: 'If I weren't president, in my opinion, he would much rather take over all of Ukraine but I am president and he's not going to mess around with me.' For the first time, he suggested European leaders may also be present at any second meeting with Mr Zelensky. Donald Trump tonight insisted Vladimir Putin 'is not going to mess around with me' on the eve of their crunch summit The eyes of the world will be on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, where the two men are due meet at 8.30pm UK time on Friday. Pictured: Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin in 2017 Putin and Trump are set to meet in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine It will be the first time any major Western leader, aside from Putin's friend Viktor Orban, has met with the dictator since his illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Pictured: A serviceman of the Ukrainian Armed Forces fires a D-30 howitzer towards Russian troops, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine Ukraine August 5 He also blamed Russia for the war, saying: 'Everybody's to blame, Putin is to blame, they're all to blame.' It comes as Putin is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile after the US president warned him of 'severe consequences' if the war continues. Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya, a remote archipelago in the Barents Sea. The pictures, taken in recent weeks by commercial satellite firm Planet Labs, reveal a surge in personnel, equipment, ships and aircraft linked to earlier tests of the 9M730 Burevestnik, known to NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Mr Trump said it is his preference for the potential second meeting to take place at the same location in Alaska. The US President also vowed that there will be no peace deal without Volodymyr Zelensky present in a boost for Ukraine. And he confidently gave himself a 75 per cent chance of success in his one-on-one with the Russian tyrant. On Thursday Mr Trump was keen to emphasise that Friday is simply laying the groundwork for a trilateral meeting that will include Mr Zelensky. 'Depending on what happens with my meeting, I'm going to be calling up President Zelensky, and let's get him over to wherever we're going to meet,' he told Fox News. 'The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal.' He added: 'This meeting sets up like a chess game. This meeting sets up a second meeting, but there is a 25 per cent chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting.' Making clear that it will be down to Ukraine to decide its own fate, Mr Trump added: 'I'm not going to negotiate their deal. I'm going to let them negotiate their deal.' Mr Trump has insisted on Mr Zelensky not being present at Friday's summit, fearing that he would be a distraction. Pictured: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to number 10 Downing Street, ahead of a meeting on Thursday August 14, 2025 Russia is gearing up to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile on the eve of Vladimir Putin's summit with Donald Trump Experts say recent satellite images show intense preparations at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya Despite nervousness from security and intelligence experts who believe Putin is playing him, the US President appeared confident the dictator won't mess him around. 'I believe now, he's convinced that he's going to make a deal,' he said. 'He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to, and we're going to find out.' But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov tampered down expectations for a breakthrough, saying it would be a 'big mistake' to predict the results of the negotiations. More details emerged of the summit on Thursday. The two leaders will meet at 11.30am local time and have a one-on-one with only their respective translators present. After that delegations from each country will join for a 'working breakfast' before a press conference. Thursday night flight radar showed the first of the Russian government planes landing at Anchorage International Airport in Alaska. Your browser does not support iframes. America had to temporarily lift certain sanctions on Russian transactions to allow them to visit the city which is the closest point from America to Russia, lying just 3 miles (4.8km) away. Mr Trump has been leant on heavily by Europe to push for an immediate ceasefire at the start of negotiations, before territorial disputes. Putin will push to delay any end to hostilities as long as possible given his forces are gaining territory by the day. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there 'will have to be some conversation about security guarantees' in order to achieve peace. But he added: 'I think the president's hope is to achieve some stoppage of fighting so that those conversations can happen.' While in recent days Mr Trump has been tempered by Western leaders, it remains to be seen the effect the former KGB man will have once he gets the US President on his own. On Thursday Putin continued his charm offensive, praising the Trump administration for making 'quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities'. The two leaders will meet at 11.30am local time and have a one-on-one with only their respective translators present. Pictured: Vladimir Putin The US President also vowed that there will be no peace deal without Volodymyr Zelensky present in a boost for Ukraine US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there 'will have to be some conversation about security guarantees' in order to achieve peace He also suggested that 'long-term conditions of peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole' could be reached under an agreement with the US on nuclear arms control. Mr Trump's former top Russia advisor Fiona Hill warned that he is making a mistake meeting the tyrant one-on-one. She told the Telegraph: 'Putin will lure you in in a moment. He likes to do the two guys chatting routine, but what he's really doing is making you complicit in all kinds of things he wants.' Ms Hill counselled Mr Trump when he met Putin at the Helsinki Summit in 2018 and said it went so badly she contemplated faking a seizure to shut it down. 'He was convinced that if he sat down with Putin, he'd sort things out, man to man, without the encumbrance of any pesky analysts or aides,' she said. The meeting followed largely the same format as Friday, with a two-hour one-on-one followed by a press conference. When asked if he believed US intelligence agencies or Putin about Russian election interference, Mr Trump horrified his aides by responding: 'President Putin says it's not Russia. I don't see any reason why it would be.' Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Trump has insisted on Mr Zelensky not being present at Friday's summit, fearing that he would be a distraction, the Wall Street Journal reported. He has admitted that the US must provide Ukraine with security guarantees as part of a peace settlement, but said this cannot involve NATO. On Thursday, Mr Zelensky was seen embracing Sir Keir Starmer before they shared a cup of tea on a visit to Downing Street ahead of the crunch talks. The Ukrainian said it was a 'good, productive meeting' where they '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.' Sir Keir said afterwards that the two leaders 'agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine'. The United States Embassy in Brazil is advising women not to travel to the U.S. for the sole purpose of giving birth to acquire citizenship for their babies. The warning was issued across the embassy's social media platforms on Thursday as the administration of President Donald Trump seeks to ban the right to citizenship for children born to tourists in the country. 'Traveling to the US with the primary purpose of giving birth so that your child can obtain US citizenship is not permitted,' the embassy's message read. 'Consular officials will deny your visa application if there is evidence that this is your intention.' The embassy warned that women running the risk of being banned from entering the United States. 'We will deny your visa if we believe your primary purpose of travel is to give birth in the United States or to obtain U.S. citizenship for your child,' the embassy said. While the US is among the 30 countries that grants birthright citizenship, Trump has been dead set on eliminating it. Trump signed an executive order on the first day of his second term to terminate U.S. citizenship to children born to mothers who are illegally or with temporary visas in the country, and whose fathers are not citizens or residing unlawfully in the country. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on the first day of his second term to end birthright citizenship to children who are born to mothers who are in the United States illegally or with temporary visas and whose fathers are not citizens or residing unlawfully in the country However, opponents argued that the president's order was in clear violation of 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause. The 14th Amendment was last ratified in 1868 and provides citizenship to any person who is born in the United States, even if their parents are illegally in the country. At least four district courts - including a Maryland court on August 7 - have ruled that the administration of President Trump does not have the legal power to block birthright citizenship to a child who is born to people who are in the United States unlawfully or temporarily. In June, the Supreme Court side with the president by ruling that individual judges did not have the authority to issue nationwide injunctions. Trump has complained about individual judges in liberal states being able to issue orders against his policies that apply across the country. The ruling allows Trump's executive order halting birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants to take effect in states and jurisdictions that did not directly challenge his action in court. Pictured: Still image from video released by the United States Embassy in Brazil on Thursday which warned women about traveling to the U.S. to give birth to children, who under law are granted birthright citizenship It could mean citizenship rules vary from state to state, pending ongoing litigation. The court ruled 6-3 in favor of Trump, with all six conservative justices - including the three he appointed - siding with the president. A female prison officer faces jail after admitting inappropriate relationships with inmates - including a violent thug jailed for his role in a 'sickening' brawl. Charlotte Winstanley, 27, was working at HMP Lindholme, near Doncaster, when she struck up improper relationships and smuggled banned items inside. Winstanley appeared before Doncaster Magistrates' Court where she indicated guilty pleas to a charge of misconduct in a public office between August 1 and November 17, 2022. The charge stated she 'misconducted' herself by 'entering into inappropriate relationships with inmates and conveyed contraband for inmates'. Winstanley also admitted conspiring with one of the inmates at the category C prison to sneak in mobile phone SD cards in October 2022. That prisoner was named in court papers as Jabhari Blair, 29, who was jailed for more than 12 years in 2014 for his role in a violent mass brawl in Bradford, West Yorks, in which people were stabbed, kicked, punched and stamped on. Winstanley, of Stainforth, South Yorks, also indicated guilty pleas to bringing a mobile phone into HMP Lindholme and also taking a photograph inside HMP Ranby, in Retford, Notts, in April 2023. The case was sent to Sheffield Crown Court where Winstanley will appear next month for a plea and trial preparation hearing. Prison officer Charlotte Winstanley, 27, faces jail after admitting inappropriate relationships with inmates She also admitted conspiring with one of the inmates to sneak in mobile phone SD cards in October 2022. That prisoner was named in court papers as Jabhari Blair, 29, who was jailed for more than 12 years in 2014 for his role in a violent mass brawl in Bradford, West Yorkshire Winstanley was working at HMP Lindholme, near Doncaster, when she struck up improper relationships and smuggled banned items inside Ordering a pre-sentence report, district judge Leo Pyle told her: 'I have to send all of the allegations against you to the Sheffield Crown Court for what is called a plea and trial preparation hearing. 'Given the indication you ultimately will be pleaded guilty. When the indictment is put to you in relation to all the charges, I am going to order that the probation service prepare a report about you. 'It is very important that the judge comes to pass sentence there is as much information about you as possible.' Blair, now incarcerated at HMP Lowdham Grange, near Nottingham, also appeared before Doncaster magistrates' court by video-link. He indicated no pleas to charges of illicitly possessing an iPhone and USB stick while at HMP Lindholme, and conspiring with Winstanley to convey SD cards into the prison. Blair, formerly of Rookwood Vale, Leeds, is due for parole in December. He was aged 18 when he stabbed a man during a mass brawl described by the sentencing judge as 'disgusting and sickening' public disorder. After being remanded into custody by Judge Pyle, the serving prisoner replied: 'No worries. Enjoy your day, yeah?' Pictured: Winstanley at Doncaster Magistrates Court case today She indicated guilty pleas to a charge of misconduct in a public office between August 1 and November 17, 2022 The former prison officer also indicated guilty pleas to bringing a mobile phone into HMP Lindholme (pictured) and also taking a photograph inside HMP Ranby, in Retford, Notts, in April 2023 Both Winstanley and Blair will appear at Sheffield Crown Court on September 11. At least 30 female prison guard have been given the sack in the past three years for forming improper relationships with prisoners. That compares to just nine women who lost their jobs for the same offence between 2017 and 2019. Morgan Farr Varney, 24, was jailed in May for ten months over an illicit relationship with a prisoner at HMP Lindholme. She was caught slipping into a cupboard with Jordan Stones, 30, a crack cocaine dealer serving a five-a-half year sentence. Interviewed by police, Farr Varney, also from Stainforth, admitted she had 'proper fallen in love' with him and admitted she had 'f****ed her life up'. Stones was handed an extra six weeks' jail time after being caught with an illicit mobile phone to stay in touch with the shamed guard. They have long been locked in a bitter war of words over the gender debate. Now author JK Rowling has penned a scathing review of Nicola Sturgeons hotly anticipated memoirs on the day it was officially launched. The Harry Potter author, who famously wore a t-shirt labelling the former first minister a destroyer of womens rights, posted the expletive-riddled assessment of Frankly on her website last night. Ms Rowling tore into the former First Ministers stubborn attachment to her controversial gender reform legislation, her inability to face up to her failures in office and Trumpian accounts of political events. She then also compared Sturgeon to Bella Swan from the vampire film series Twilight - and attached what appeared to be an AI-generated image to illustrate that. The womens right campaigner wrote: She remains stubbornly wedded to her belief that it is possible to let some men into womens spaces on the mens say so, without letting any man who fancies it come inside. She denies there are any risks to a policy of gender self-identification. She cant imagine any male predator capitalising on such policies, in spite of the fact that it has, demonstrably, happened many times. She is flat out Trumpian in her shameless denial of reality and hard facts. Rowling continued: While Sturgeon is focused on making sure no hurty sexist words penetrate hers, shes entirely dismissive of the harms done in actual physical spaces, where she expected nurse Sandie Peggie to deal with a heavy menstrual flood in front of a cosplaying man, and vulnerable female prisoners to accept being incarcerated with trans-identified male sex offenders. 'The First Minister, with her police protection, her carefully monitored official residence and her chauffeured car just couldnt see what these bigots were making a fuss about.' Author JK Rowling took no prisoners in her review of Nicola Sturgeon's memoirs Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon, with broadcaster Kirsty Wark ahead of the Edinburgh International Book Festival launch event of her memoir 'Frankly' The best-selling author said it was only when the double rapist Isla Bryson burst into the news that the FM was lost of words. Ms Rowling said: The First Minister, whose composure and articulacy under fire had, for years, been her most potent political asset, made herself look and forgive me for employing a PR term here a complete f******. Of course, the blame for her looking like a complete f****** lies with others. Nobody had warned her about Bryson, you see. If youre prepared to accept the foundational falsehood that some men are women, youll inevitably find yourself panicking like a pheasant caught in headlights one day.' Ms Rowling also addressed claims Sturgeon made in her book about the vile abuse the politician had received. The best-selling author said: Eleven years ago, when she and I found ourselves on opposite sides of a different public debate, I didnt hold her accountable for all the threats I received from nationalists, nor for the porn her supporters circulated, with my face pasted onto a naked actresss body. 'As the gender wars have raged, I have not accused her of emboldening the kind of activist whose threats against me have twice necessitated police action. Notwithstanding all the ruminating on sexism and misogyny Sturgeon does in Frankly, always as it affects her personally, she is unshakeable in her belief that if men put on dresses and call themselves women they can only be doing so with innocent motives. Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon at the launch of her memoir 'Frankly', at Edinburgh International Book Festival JK Rowling shared a picture on social media where she had written a note on Nicola Sturgeon's book Sturgeon hasnt been remotely humbled by the Supreme Court ruling that proved her government was forcing a misinterpretation of the UK-wide Equality Act on Scotland, one that robbed women of many single sex spaces and of their very existence as a definable class with rights protected in law.' And Ms Rowling, who reveals that her doctor husband once ran a methadone clinic for drug addicts, hit out at what the ex FM fails to even mention in the memoir. Ms Rowling said: The mysteriously vanished government WhatsApp messages from the pandemic, the tanking educational outcomes, the CalMac Ferry disaster, the disappearance of a half a million pounds of her own supporters money that was supposedly ringfenced for a new independence referendum: youll search in vain for candid accounts of these in Frankly; indeed, most arent mentioned at all. Perhaps the most disgraceful omission and Ill admit to a personal interest here, because Im married to a doctor who used to run a methadone clinic, so saw the national scandal up close is the fact that Scotland continues to lead the whole of Europe in drug deaths.' And she compares the MSP to Bella Swan in the Twilight books by Stephenie Meyer. Ms Rowling wrote: The heroine of Twilight, a shy, awkward, bookish girl, moves to a small, rainswept town called Forks to live with her single father. 'In doing so, she unknowingly takes her first step towards a staggeringly unlikely future nobody could have predicted. The heroine of Frankly is also a shy, awkward, bookish girl who lives in a small, rainswept town. Ms Rowling wore a T-shirt which branded Ms Sturgeon a 'destroyer of women's rights' in 2022 When Ms Sturgeon refused to comment on the Supreme Court gender ruling in April, Ms Rowling hit out again 'About to turn seventeen, she approaches a bungalow in Dreghorn, knocks on the door of the SNP candidate for her constituency, and asks if she can help with canvassing. Nicola Sturgeon, unlike the eventually undead Bella Swan, isnt a Good Vampire at all. 'Shes caused real, lasting harm by presiding over and encouraging a culture in which women have been silenced, shamed, persecuted and placed in situations that are degrading and unsafe, all for not subscribing to her own luxury beliefs. It's the latest clash in a long-running feud between the two women over transgender rights which dates back more than three years. Seemingly resuming the war of words, on Tuesday Rowling focused her tirade on a segment in the memoir in which the 'heroine [Sturgeon] opines on the need to make the "public sphere" safe for women and girls'. Accompanying the post is a picture of Sturgeon's autobiography in which Rowling scrawled across the top of the page: 'Are you f***ing kidding me???' She added: 'Annotating as I read to review. Might auction my scribbled-on copy, proceeds to go to. NB: nobody who's offended by swearing should bid.' The multi-millionaire author's post comes a day after she tore into Sturgeon during a fierce attack on X over their long-running row about transgender rights. It followed a car crash TV interview in which Sturgeon claimed anyone who rapes a woman 'forfeits the right to be the gender of their choice' - while struggling to answer fresh questions about transgender prisoner, Isla Bryson. Former SNP leader Sturgeon has been in a public war of words with the Harry Potter author for years over their clashing views on transgender issues (Sturgeon is seen unboxing a copy of her autobiography, Frankly) JK Rowling at the Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore premiere in London in 2022 Former first minister Nicola Sturgeon following First Minister's Questions earlier this year '"We've lost all sense of rationality in [the gender] debate", said Nicola Sturgeon,' Rowling wrote. 'Only one side has lost rationality. Only one side pretends there's more than two sexes. Only one side lets male rapists into women's prisons. Only one side supports child sterilisation. Yours.' Rowling, who is a staunch women's rights activist and has been furiously critical of the transgender movement, previously offered her services to 'review' her old foe's autobiography in a tongue-in-cheek post on her social media. It followed one fawning review of the book, which dubbed it a 'triumph', and added: '"Frankly" is the most insightful and stylishly open memoir by a politician since Barack Obama's Dreams From My Father.' 'I am available to review Nicola Sturgeon's memoir,' children's writer JK Rowling later announced. 'No fee required, as long as you don't edit out the swear words.' Rowling's review slating Sturgeon's memoir, is the latest broadside levelled at the former First Minister by the Harry Potter creator, who has a net worth of around 945million. In 2022, Rowling wore a T-shirt which branded Sturgeon a 'destroyer of women's rights' in protest against the Scottish Government's gender recognition reform laws, which were later blocked by the UK Government. The move prompted Sturgeon to call for those with strong views to 'treat each other with respect'. Accompanying a previous post is a picture of Sturgeon's autobiography in which Rowling (pictured) scrawled across the top of the page: 'Are you f***ing kidding me???' The row escalated after a landmark Supreme Court ruling in April, which clarified that a woman is biologically female for the purposes of equalities laws, when Rowling compared Sturgeon to Pontius Pilate, who ordered Jesus' crucifixtion. After Sturgeon refused to comment on the ruling, Ms Rowling mocked her silence by sharing a social media selfie of the Glasgow MSP in the gym on Easter Monday calling her 'Pontius Pilates'. In the Bible, Pontius Pilate did not believe that Jesus had committed a crime but condemned him to death because the crowd called for it. And last month, after Sturgeon chaired a discussion about the witch trials in Scotland, Rowling hit out at her adversary again. She said: 'If Sturgeon had been around in the 1500s she'd have been right there lighting the pyres. 'Ungodly women like this not only blight the crops and turn the milk, they almost certainly put a spell on my husband which made him pilfer all the tithes.' The author has consistently stuck up for women's rights in recent years - and has even pledged to personally fund gender-critical legal actions. The 'fighting fund' is helping women who have lost their livelihoods or are facing employment tribunals because of their views on sex-based rights. The criteria covers those who 'don't have adequate means to bring actions to court or to defend themselves'. It was publicly announced in May after prisoner Jane Sutherley said she was considering suing the Scottish Prison Service after she was forced to share facilities with transgender women. Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser has fled to Marthas Vineyard after President Donald Trump unleashed a swift crime crackdown flooding National Guard troops into the city's streets. Bowsers office confirmed the mayor is no longer in the city as federal law enforcement made over 100 arrests across D.C., according to a report from NBC Washington. She reportedly left the city to pick up her daughter from a 'family commitment.' The Mayor has a family commitment and will return to the District tomorrow afternoon, Bowsers office said in a statement. The mayors sudden vacation to Marthas Vineyard comes after Trump signed an executive order earlier this week directing a federal takeover the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Trump also ordered the National Guard to assist federal law enforcement in its efforts across the nations capital. Trumps decision to take over the city occurred after a former DOGE staffer was attacked in DC and left bleeding in the streets. The Daily Mail reached out to the mayors office for comment. The mayor's office claimed Bowser left the city to pick up her daughter Martha's Vineyard is one of the wealthiest vacation spots in the US National guard troops have made over 100 arrests in the last two nights in DC Since launching Trumps DC operation, over 100 individuals have been arrested by law enforcement and more than 25 illegal guns have been removed from the streets. Bowser met with Attorney General Pam Bondi following Trumps executive order to cooperate with the federal public safety response. Although Bowser has been critical of Trump in the past, the mayor has not been directly critical of the president following the executive order. She has described Trumps take over as unsettling and unprecedented while demanding statehood for the city. During a press conference, Bowser also claimed that crime in the city was at a 30-year-low, but did welcome more federal assistance in DC. The fact that we have more law enforcement and presence in neighborhoods, that may be positive, Bowser said. The mayor's office would not confirm if Bowser was in Martha's Vineyard amid Trump's historic crime crackdown on DC In the executive order, Trump cites out of control crime in the nations capital as reasoning for marshalling National Guard troops. A babysitter who wanted to gain access to young special needs children so that her pedophile boyfriend could abuse them has been sentenced to 100 years in prison. Brittney Lyon, 31, procured at least four young girls, two aged three and two aged seven, for her partner Samuel Cabrera, 31, to molest while she participated in 2016. San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan released a statement about the horrific case on Thursday, saying Lyon had been sentenced to 100 years or life in jail. Stephan said that two of the girls had an autism diagnosis, and one was non-verbal. She slammed Lyon's abuse as 'despicable' and 'ruthless'. Lyon, of San Marcos, California, pleaded guilty in May to two felony counts of lewd act upon a child and two counts of forcible lewd act upon a child. She also admitted to several counts of kidnapping, residential burglary and sexually assaulting multiple victims. Meanwhile, her pedophile boyfriend Cabrera was previously convicted by a jury in 2019 and sentenced to eight life terms without parole in 2021. Officials became aware of the abuse one of the seven-year-old girls told her mother in 2016 that she no longer wanted to go anywhere with Lyon, who was a family friend. Brittney Lyon (left), 31, procured at least four young girls, two aged three and two aged seven, for her partner Samuel Cabrera (pictured), also 31, to molest while she participated in 2016 San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan (pictured) released a statement about the horrific case on Thursday, saying Lyon had been sentenced to 100 years or life in jail Police investigated Lyon and Cabrera, and found a double-locked box in his car containing six computer hard drives containing hundreds of videos of the abuse. They showed the couple sexually abusing the children and even drugging them, while 'using extreme cruelty and brutality', according to the attorney's office. 'In addition to the videos of the young victims, there were dozens of videos that Lyon had taken surreptitiously of women and girls in changing rooms at clothing stores, bathrooms and locker rooms at various North County businesses,' Stephan said. After the first child came forward, police tracked down parents who had hired Lyon, who had posted her babysitting services online. The other three victims had responded to Lyon's ad saying she wanted to work with special needs children specifically. Police also seized phones belonging to Lyon and Cabrera, and found messages showing them regularly coordinating access to the children at their houses. 'Today's just sentence ends a despicable chapter that has destroyed innocence and devastated families in San Diego County,' DA Stephan said on Thursday. 'This defendant was ruthless in posing as a trustworthy babysitter and recruiting autistic children, only to commit the most atrocious acts upon them.' Pictured: Lyon's photographs from her babysitting adverts, where she said she wanted to work with special needs children specifically. She has been convicted of two felony counts of lewd act upon a child and two counts of forcible lewd act upon a child, the DA's office said Pictured: The home in Carlsbad, California, where police say Lyon was bringing two seven-year-old girls to her boyfriend, Cabrera, who would then molest them while she filmed Though Stephan sentenced Lyon to 100 years in jail, under current laws she will be eligible for parole at age 50, meaning she will only have served 28 years. Stephan is pushing legislation to exclude convicted sex offenders from the elderly parole laws under the proposed Senate Bill 286. The bill was tabled by State Senator Brian Jones, but it is currently in the suspense file of the Senate Appropriations Committee meaning it won't be debated for a while. Jones has cited Lyon's case to argue for his proposed legislation to be expedited. 'After the horrific sexual crimes Brittney Lyon committed against children, District Attorney Summer Stephan did her job in securing a just sentence of 100 years-to-life,' he said. 'Now, it's time for the state to do its job and honor that sentence for the sake of the victims. 'Shamefully, a loophole in California law could allow Lyon to walk free after serving less than a third of her sentence. 'Senate Bill 286 would close that loophole and ensure violent child rapists serve their full sentences. 'I'm calling on my Democrat colleagues to stop protecting predators, move this important bill forward, and deliver justice for victims.' Donald Trump has slammed the Australian government's decision to recognise a Palestinian state, with a US official warning the White House is 'disgusted'. US Ambassador to Israel and former Arkansas Governor, Mike Huckabee met with the President and discussed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's controversial move. He said Trump, and senior members of his administration, had shared their confusion with Australia's foreign policy. 'There's an enormous level of disappointment and some disgust,' the ambassador told ABC's 7.30 on Thursday. 'I don't know that the president used that word, [but] I would say that is a characterisation of a sentiment. 'I think it does express the emotional sentiment, a sense of, "You've got to be kidding... why would they be doing this?".' The ambassador branded the timing 'terrible' and claimed it was a 'gift' to Hamas as it would negatively impact any negotiations of a settlement in Gaza. He said the decision to recognise a Palestinian state would also directly impact Hamas' remaining Israeli hostages and that it has endangered the hope of a peaceful resolution. The US Ambassador to Israel said Trump and his administration had shared disappointment and disgust over Australia's decision to recognise Palestinian statehood Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed on Monday that Australia would recognise a Palestinian state, contingent on the promise Hamas would play no role Albanese revealed on Monday that Australia would recognise Palestinian statehood, following similar commitments by Western allies including the UK, France and Canada. 'Today I can confirm that at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September, Australia will recognise the state of Palestine,' he told reporters. 'Australia will recognise the right of the Palestinian people to a state of their own predicated on the commitments Australia has received from the Palestinian Authority.' The Prime Minister said his government's backing of Palestinian statehood was contingent on the promise Hamas would play no future role in the state. The commitments also include free elections being held in Palestine and demilitarisation of the region. Ambassador Huckabee criticised Albanese for not notifying the US of his government's decision to recognise Palestine. 'As Israel's closest partner, we would have expected that there would have been some heads up,' he said. However, Foreign Minister Penny Wong has said she personally spoke to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about the decision as a 'matter of courtesy'. US ambassador Mike Huckabee criticised Albanese's move, claiming the timing was detrimental to peace negotiations and endangered the remaining Israeli hostages Ambassador Huckabee was also asked whether the Trump administration had tried to influence Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct in the war in Gaza. He said the US respected the fact they were attacked on October 7 and that he was tired of people blaming Israel for defending itself. The ambassador's comments come after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed Australia's recognition of Palestinian statehood as 'shameful'. During a rare press conference for international media, Netanyahu said it was an 'absurdity' to recognise Palestine and singled out Australia - before the country had announced its stance. 'It defies imagination or understanding how intelligent people around the world, including seasoned diplomats, government leaders, and respected journalists, fall for this absurdity,' he said. 'To have European countries and Australia march into that rabbit hole just like that is disappointing, and I think it's actually shameful.' Netanyahu also vehemently denied the accusations Israel has led a 'starvation policy', denying Palestinians access to food and humanitarian aid. Evidence from international human rights groups suggests aid restrictions have led to the dire situation currently playing out in Gaza. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, as of Wednesday, 235 people, including 106 children, had died from hunger-related deaths since the war began in October 2023. Gaza Health officials also reported that 20 Palestinian civilians were shot dead last week while trying to seek aid outside humanitarian depots. Residents of a Colorado neighborhood have resorted to a disgusting act of protest after a neglected landmark house has invited squatters and rodents to the area. Neighbors of a vacant historic home in Denver have started chucking bags of dog poop onto the front steps of the 120-year-old property. 'A poop protest, that's it,' Mimi Garrison, who has lived next door to the home in distress for about 50 years, told CBS. Located in the city's East 7th Avenue Historic District, the house has been abandoned and left to deteriorate mid-renovation for six years. The no-deteriorated house was last purchased in 2015. At first, the owner, Flavia Montecinos, rented it out to tenants. But trouble arose when she decided to give the more than a century-old home a makeover in 2019 - only to never complete the project. Renovations stopped a few months later, CBS reported. Since then, the once-lovely home transformed into something better resembling a haunted house. Its windows were boarded up and the weeds became overgrown - not to mention the eyesore of the metal construction fence lining the 9,000-square-foot land plot. The home was purchased in 2015, but a renovation project from six years ago was never completed Neighbors of a vacant historic home in Denver have started chucking bags of dog poop onto the front steps of the 120-year-old property The fence has not kept out vagrants, community members claim. Ever since the house became disregarded, it has become a hub for unwelcome guests. Garrison recalled to CBS one particular instance, during which homeless people broke into the landmark and lived in the garage. Along with safety concerns, residents have complained to the city that living so close to the devastated home could bring down their own properties' values. Last year, Denver's Community Planning and Development Agency added the property to the city's 'neglected and derelict' building list. 'It's disgraceful,' Garrison told the outlet, adding that a Colorado senator used to live across the street and a previous Governor lived just two doors down from the fallen home. The East 7th Avenue Historic District is packed with homes built primarily between the 1890's and the 1930's, according to the Denver Public Library. It original residents were professionals, soldiers and laborers that were considered wealthy or middle class. The district is famously known for the Doud-Eisenhower Home, where the 34th US President Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife Mamie Doud got married in the living room in 1916. Its windows were boarded up and the weeds became overgrown - not to mention the eyesore of the metal construction fence lining the 9,000-square-foot land plot During his administration, the home became the Summer White House and the family was well-established within the community. The Doud-Eisenhower Home is just about a five minute drive from the despaired - and now poop-covered - property. This 'poop protest' started with neighbors walking by with their furry friends and being absolutely sickened by what they saw. It has at least been going on since July 2024, when an inspector first made note of it. This unsanitary and smelly form of rebellion has caught traction, and now the entire front of the home is littered with a colorful variety if feces-filled doggy bags. In May, an inspector made note of this, writing: 'The neighborhood is angry with this resident and a lot of them throw dog poop bags full of excrement over the fence into the yard.' Denver's Community Planning and Development Agency has had roughly 40 complaints about the property since 2019 when the revamp project abruptly halted. There have been five complaints in 2025 about the 'neglected condition of the house.' Poop-filled bags have been being thrown on the property since at least last year This unsanitary and smelly form of rebellion has caught traction, and now the entire front of the home is littered with a colorful variety if feces-filled doggy bags ((pictured: a woman walking through the neighborhood with her dog) 'I think the neighbors are making a statement - Clean it up. Clean up your mess,' Garrison told CBS. She did, however, admit the downside to this bizarre community effort. 'That's a lot of poop, and it smells,' she told the outlet as she observed dozens of bags. Alexandra Foster of the Community Planning and Development agency confirmed to the outlet that the owner 'secured a permit for an addition in 2019 but abandoned the project halfway through during the pandemic.' The owner of the vacant home responded to the sickening situation in a statement to CBS. 'Third parties have engaged in illegal dumping of dog feces, food waste and other garbage on the property,' Montecinos wrote. 'The property owner has discussed this matter with the City and County of Denver and continues to address this issue by regularly disposing of this waste.' City records suggest renovations could be picking back up soon, making neighbors cautiously optimistic Residents resorted to chucking feces on the property after feeling unheard by the city (pictured: a man walking past the house with his dog) City records reviewed by the outlet suggest there is a residential construction permit for the home 'in progress.' Neighbors, such as Garrison, are hopeful, but will not be truly satisfied until they see improvements. 'To have it go on such a long time is what's the worst part,' she told CBS. 'A lot of the neighbors are affected by all this.' Until then, the lawn, steps and side of the historic home remain covered in poop. Nearly half of voters think the Government can't control migrants arriving on small boats. While the poll applies to British governments in general, it indicates a lack of faith in Sir Keir Starmer's 'smash the gangs' policy to control the boats. The survey came as the number of illegal migrants who have crossed the Channel since Labour was elected just over a year ago reached 50,000 a figure reached more quickly under Sir Keir than previous prime ministers. His first act upon winning the election was to scrap the Rwanda deterrent scheme that the Tories had banked on to get the boat crossings down. The Government's 'returns deal' with France appears to have done little to deter those determined to get to Britain, with more than 2,000 arrivals in the seven days since the 'one in, one out' scheme launched. The YouGov poll, which sampled 8,731 adults, revealed that 48 per cent thought British governments did not have the ability to control the number of arrivals. Just 44 per cent had faith that ministers would be able to restrict the number of small boats, while eight per cent didn't know. Migrants leave a beach in northern France in a smuggler's boat on Thursday Hundreds more arrived at Dover on Sunday with official figures released on Monday Your browser does not support iframes. The Home Office confirmed 435 arrived on Saturday bringing the total since the General Election to 49,516 Respondents were asked: 'Thinking about the powers and abilities of British governments in general, rather than specific governments, how much do you think a British government has the ability to control the number of migrants coming to the UK on small boats?' Of the five responses ranging from 'a great deal' to 'none at all' the most cited category was 'not very much' when it came to controlling numbers. Ministers attempted to dodge the blame after figures confirmed the number of small-boat arrivals had passed 50,000 under Labour even though the milestone equivalent to one migrant arriving every 11 minutes was passed seven months earlier than under Sir Keir's Conservative predecessor, Rishi Sunak. Former Labour home secretary Jacqui Smith blamed the Tories, saying: 'What is happening is the result of the last Government.' She told BBC Breakfast: 'It is an unacceptable number of people. It demonstrates the way over the last six or seven years that the criminal gangs have got an absolute foothold in the tragic trafficking of people across the Channel.' But Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp dismissed Baroness Smith's claims, saying Labour had 'surrendered our borders'. 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 2023. Since the start of the crisis in 2018, 178,167 migrants have reached Britain, with only about four per cent of them removed. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch this week vowed to stop all small-boat migrants. Asked if the Conservatives could reduce the number of crossings from five figures to zero, Mrs Badenoch replied: 'I think that we can.' A trade envoys controversial trip to northern Cyprus was last night likened to visiting the Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine. Sir Keir Starmer faced yet more pressure to sack Afzal Khan, who has caused a diplomatic spat with an unauthorised visit to a territory the UK does not recognise. Labour MP Mr Khan, UK trade envoy to Turkey, posed for pictures in the self-declared Turkish Republic of northern Cyprus, standing alongside the breakaway states leader. The Cypriot government in the south regards the north as a rogue state. It says Mr Khans trip, which it has branded absolutely condemnable, confers recognition on it. On Thursday, Christos Karaolis, president of the National Federation of Cypriots in the UK, said: No UK Government minister would travel to Crimeaor be pictured alongside flags and symbols representing the so-called Republic of Crimea regime. The only difference between the occupation in Crimea and the northern part of Cyprus is time - Cyprus has been militarily occupied for 40 more years. Time cannot legitimise an occupation. Therefore, Mr Khans position as UK-Turkey Trade Envoy is untenable. His removal would send a clear signal from the Government that his actions are condemnable and not in line with the UKs longstanding policy regarding non-recognition of the occupation regime. Tory foreign affairs spokesman Wendy Morton said it was high time Sir Keir sacked the MP who has created a diplomatic crisis. Labour MP Afzal Khan (left), UK trade envoy to Turkey, posed for pictures in the self-declared Turkish Republic of northern Cyprus, standing alongside the breakaway states leader Ersin Tatar (right) Pressure is now piling for Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) to sack Khan She added: A government representative would never visit occupied Donbas or Crimea. So for Afzal Khan to unofficially visit occupied northern Cyprus is totally unacceptable. Spineless Keir Starmer has sat on his hands whilst one of his MPs has created a diplomatic crisis. It is high time he grew a backbone and sacked him. Officials are said to have been unaware of his trip. The Government said there was no change to its position regarding northern Cyprus. Israel has been put 'on notice' that it may be placed on the United Nations' blacklist for countries suspected of committing sexual violence in armed conflict. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has cited 'grave concern' over multiple allegations that Palestinian prisoners have been subjected to degrading treatment in prisons, a detention facility and a military base. It comes as Hamas was added to the list of shame for the first time last night marking formal acknowledgment for its crimes on October 7, 2023 and to the hostages since that attack. Israel was not listed on the 2025 annual report on Conflict-Related Sexual Violence despite the warning. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres (pictured) has cited 'grave concern' over multiple allegations that Palestinian prisoners have been subjected to degrading treatment in prisons, a detention facility and a military base Pictured: Ambassador Danny Danon, Permanent Representative of Israel to the UN Guterres wrote to Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon on Monday citing concern over his country's refusal to grant UN inspectors access to areas where allegations have been made. The Secretary General said Israel must take steps to avoid being blacklisted including issuing directives against sexual violence. Allegations cited by the UN include accounts of rape of male Palestinian detainees. Mr Danon rejected Guterres's allegations as 'unfounded' and based on 'biased publications'. Tomorrow is Princess Anne's 75th birthday. But due to an unusual 'rule' the Princess Royal adheres, to the Windsors might not need to bring out the cake and balloons to mark the occasion. Indeed, the notoriously private Anne is known for her rather unconventional approach to royal life, having decided when her children were born they would not receive titles. That attitude also extends into other aspects of Anne's life. On the Royals with Roya and Kate podcast, expert Roya Nikkhah revealed Anne follows a strict policy when it comes to birthday celebrations. Roya claims that the Princess Royal has a 'no-frills' approach to her birthdays which means she only celebrates major milestones. 'Anne's policy is: "I will do things for my birthdays that have a zero, but I won't do things for my birthdays that have a five,"' Roya said. She added Anne has reportedly cancelled meetings in the run to the big day to avoid discussions about how she might mark her 75th. Anne cancelled her last major birthday celebration in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Princess Anne in July 2025. The Princess Royal turns 75 tomorrow but is unlikely to mark the occasion with a big party Anne at Newmarket Racecourse in 2021. Speaking on the Royals with Roya and Kate podcast, royals expert Roya Nikkhah revealed that Anne follows a strict policy when it comes to birthday celebrations Anne and her father Prince Philip at the 2012 Olympics. Anne, like Philip, is reportedly planning to wind down her royal duties as she approaches her 80th and then 90th birthday Five years ago, the Daily Mail reported Anne had been due to celebrate her 70th with a soiree hosted by her mother Queen Elizabeth at Buckingham Palace. The Princess Royal instead marked the occasion with a sailing trip around the west coast of Scotland with her husband Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence. The late Queen also hosted a secret, socially distanced lunch with her daughter at Frogmore House, an empty private royal residence on her Berkshire estate, to mark the occasion. No other members of the Royal Family were present, and only minimal staff - who were part of the Queen's castle 'bubble' at the time - attended. Anne's next milestone birthday will be her 80th in 2030 and, according to Roya, Anne plans to start 'winding down' her royal duties after that. The royal insider said: 'I was told that she's told her team: "I'm going to start winding down a little bit at 80, in five years' time, and then I want to step back completely at 90."' She speculated that Anne might be following the same timescale as her late father, Prince Philip. Roya said: 'I thought the timeline, as you said, was interesting that she's looking at her father, the late Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, who stepped back from public life completely at 96.' Anne at the coronation of her brother in May 2023. Anne shows no sign of slowing down just yet and she holds the title of the hardest working royal, having taken on 474 engagements last year Anne with Queen Elizabeth II in June 2019. To mark her 70th birthday in 2020, Anne enjoyed a socially distanced lunch with her mother Indeed, Anne shows no sign of slowing down just yet and she holds the title of the hardest working royal, having taken on 474 engagements last year and a whopping 20,000 throughout her adult life. On top of this, Anne is the patron of over 300 charities, organisations and military regiments. This includes The Princess Royal's Trust for Carers - now known as the Carers Trust - and Save The Children which was the first major charity with which she became closely associated when Anne was just 20 years old. During her long tenure as a working royal, Anne has become something of a trailblazer. At the 1976 Montreal Olympics, she became the first member of the family to take part in the tournament when she competed in the equestrian event. Anne also made the unconventional decision on behalf of her son and daughter that they would forgo much of the trappings of royal life and not receive titles. Anne's controversial decision happened immediately after the birth of her son Peter, in 1977, when she decided her son would not be given a title. King Charles III and Princess Anne at the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II A young Princess Anne and her father Writing in his biography of Princess Anne, royal insider Brian Hoey said Anne did so because she believed 'in this day and age, a title would be more of a hindrance than an advantage as her children try to make their way in the world'. Although Queen Elizabeth II reluctantly agreed to Anne's request, Hoey wrote that the late Queen had been 'anxious' to give her first-born grandson a title. And - according to royal biographer Ingrid Seward - Elizabeth was left disappointed by her decision, but was nevertheless persuaded to respect her daughter's decision. Despite not being bestowed the title of prince, Peter still grew up with many of the airs and graces that define the royals. After his birth, Anne was quick to resume her own duties as a working member of the royals which meant that Peter was brought up by a nanny. Peter and later his sister also went to Gordonstoun, the same public school his grandfather Philip and his three uncles all attended. Hoey perfectly summarised Peter's upbringing as 'not exactly a run-of-the-mill commoner'. Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne following the birth of Peter Phillips, who Anne decided would not be given a title Princess Anne with her husband Sir Tim Laurence When Anne's daughter was born in 1981, she decided not to give her a royal title and broke convention in a different way when she named her Zara, an unusual for a member of the Royal Family. And the Princess Royal was very much involved with bringing up her daughter with a young Zara 'never very far from Anne's side'. Whether Anne succeeded in giving Zara and Peter a 'normal' life is up for debate, but they certainly got the best of both worlds in many respects. As while their cousins continue their roles as working members of the family, Anne's children have had successful careers elsewhere. From 2000, Peter worked in Formula One first for Jaguar as a corporate hospitality manager and then for Williams racing team as a sponsorship accounts manager. He left F1 in 2006 for a job at the Royal Bank of Scotland and since leaving the bank in 2012 he has held numerous other jobs in the private sector. Zara had a successful equestrian career which saw her compete in multiple horse riding competitions. Her career high point was representing Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympics where she won a silver medal in the equestrian team eventing. This was the first time Britain had won a medal in the event since 1972 when Zara's father - Captain Mark Phillips - won a gold. On the latest episode of the Mail's Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things podcast, hosts Robert Hardman and Kate Williams reveal their picks for the worst Royal houseguests of all time. From Tudor Royals who bankrupted entire counties with their extravagant appetites to a light-fingered Queen coveting her hosts' antiques, British monarchs throughout history have darkened the door of many an obliging host. In the episode, Royal biographer Hardman singles out one princess for her 'appallingly bad' behaviour on state visits. You can listen to the latest Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things by clicking the player below or here. Many dignitaries, ambassadors and fellow Royals have shared anecdotes in their memoirs about the legendary drunken escapades of Princess Margaret, sister of Queen Elizabeth II. While Margaret's dry wit and well documented love of alcohol could prove too much for some hosts, she also possessed a remarkable ability to charm the most powerful figures of her era. Was Princess Margaret really the worst Royal houseguest? Famously barred from America by British diplomats in the 1970s due to her lavish spending and party lifestyle, Princess Margaret had a reputation for being a loose cannon. Hardman told co-host Kate Williams of one occasion where the princess behaved 'phenomenally rudely', which epitomises how her rebellious spirit could scupper important diplomatic events. The Royal biographer said: 'I was going through the diaries of Cynthia Jeb, who was the wife of the former ambassador to Paris in the 1950s. Many dignitaries, ambassadors and fellow Royals have shared anecdotes in their memoirs about the legendary drunken escapades of Princess Margaret While Margaret's dry wit and well documented love of alcohol could prove too much for some hosts, she also possessed a remarkable ability to charm the most powerful figures of her era Get your weekly dose of Royal scandals and palace intrigue on the Mail's Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things podcast 'She recounted a dinner where Princess Margaret behaved appallingly. 'Margaret turned up very hungover. She was on a sort of tour of Europe, and this grand lunch at a chateau had been laid on for her. 'All the bright, young things of the time had been invited, and it was set to be a very special occasion. They were all said to be very excited to meet the princess. 'The morning of, she says: I can't go I have got a cold. There were reports that she kept doing a sort of fake cough, which convinced no one. 'The Queen mother went to the lunch, but Margaret stayed behind. No sooner had everybody gone, did the princess call round a hairdresser called Alexandra. 'Alexandra was the hairdresser of the day in Paris. Basically, she just wanted to have her hair done.' Historian Williams shared another anecdote of Margaret's often erratic and displeasing behaviour, again involving alcohol. 'If you invite Margaret to a dinner, she'll be rude to you. She'll turn up late. But she'll enjoy a sing along', Williams began. 'One night, at a ball given by the legendary hostess Lady Rothermere, the princess grabbed the microphone from the leader of the band and demanded the music of Cole Porter. Famously barred from America by British diplomats in the 1970s due to her lavish spending and party lifestyle, Princess Margaret had a reputation for being a loose cannon However, her unorthodox behaviour could prove surprisingly charming to some of the most difficult-to-please guests to enter the Royal household Robert Hardman: 'President Tito was so charmed by her, that he addressed her as comrade princess.' Listen here Get your weekly dose of Royal scandals and palace intrigue on this Mail podcast New episodes every Thursday Hosted by Royal Historians Robert Hardman and Professor Kate Williams, Queens, Kings, and Dastardly Things looks at the Royal Family - the secrets, the palace intrigues, and the Crown's bloodiest moments. Listen wherever you get your podcasts now. Advertisement 'Everyone stopped dancing, and the princess suddenly starts manically singing. From the back of the ballroom, there were loud boos. People fell silent. 'It turned out that the man who was booing was the painter Francis Bacon, who was also drunk and was telling people her singing was awful and she needed to be stopped. 'So, you do need to be careful with Princess Margaret when she comes round because she could say anything, or sing anything.' However, her unorthodox behaviour could prove surprisingly charming to some of the most difficult-to-please guests to enter the Royal household. In the early 1970s, Yugoslavia's Communist dictator President Tito was due to meet Queen Elizabeth II in Britain, to lay the ground for closer commercial and political ties. Cold War tensions had left relations between Yugoslavia and Britain decidedly frosty. Worse still, Tito was a staunch communist whose ideology was fundamentally at odds with the monarchy. Enter Princess Margaret, who proved the monarchy's surprise card up its sleeve. 'Margaret was able to wow one of the most terrifying monsters of her day', said Hardman. 'The princess was sent to Yugoslavia before the state visit. She was the first Royal to ever visit the nation. 'President Tito was so charmed by her, that he addressed her as comrade princess. 'She's still fondly remembered by that title in what used to be called Yugoslavia.' To listen to full episode, documenting history's worst Royal houseguests, search for Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things now, wherever you get your podcasts. The King will tell the nation tomorrow how the sacrifice of the heroes of VJ Day will never be forgotten. In a moving audio message, echoing one broadcast by his grandfather, King George VI, eighty years ago, Charles will describe how those who lived and died in the Far East gave us more than freedom; they left us the example of how it can and must be protected. August 15, 1945, marked not only the cessation of war over Japan but the end of the Second World War as a whole. More than 90,000 British troops were casualties of the Far East conflict, of which almost 30,000 died and over 12,400 were held as prisoners of war, in often horrific conditions. But despite the magnitude and brutality of the conflict, many feel that their contribution was deliberately overlooked at the time and has continued to be forgotten over the years, particularly given the historic significance of events to mark Victory in Europe in May of that year. Now on one of the last major commemorations the dwindling number who served at the time will live to see, the monarchs six-minute audio recording will be played to the nation, Realms and Commonwealth. The message was recorded earlier this month, in the Morning Room at Clarence House. His Majesty, King Charles III, will address the nation tomorrow with a speech dedicated to the sacrifice of the heroes of VJ Day His speech will echo his grandfather King George VI's message (pictured with his daughter Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen's Mother and Princess Margaret on August 15, 1945) 80 years on Huge crowds celebrating Victory in Japan on August 15, 1945 in Albert Square, Manchester Thousands of people also gathered in the street of Piccadilly to celebrate the day Notably the King will make reference to the experience endured by Prisoners of War, and to the innocent civilians of occupied lands in the region, whose suffering reminds us that war's true cost extends beyond battlefields, touching every aspect of life. His Majesty will also describe how the heroes of V.J. Day gave us more than freedom; they left us the example of how it can and must be protected, since victory was made possible by close collaboration between nations, across vast distances, faiths and cultural divides. He will add that this demonstrates in times of war and in times of peace, the greatest weapons of all are not the arms you bear but the arms you link. The King, accompanied by Queen Camilla, will lead the national commemorations by attending a Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire organised by the Royal British Legion tomorrow. Their Majesties will join veterans, members of VJ associations, military personnel and senior politicians for the event. They will lay wreaths at the Armed Forces Memorial, before a national two-minute silence and a flypast from the RAF Red Arrows. There will also be a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight of historic aircraft. Afterwards they will meet with around 30 surviving veterans who served in the Pacific and Indian Ocean territories, those who were prisoners of war and veterans stationed throughout the UK and Commonwealth, who contributed to the war effort in the Far East. The Prince and Princess of Wales will not be present but plan to share a personal message of reflection to mark the occasion. The 18 million Americans who use cannabis daily have drastically increased their odds of developing schizophrenia, a serious mental disorder that can lead to death. The grim findings come from a new report by the Canadian Medical Association Journal which revealed that patients needing hospitalization because of cannabis-related health problems were 14 times more likely to develop schizophrenia within three years. These symptoms could range from severe psychiatric symptoms such as paranoia or panic attacks to overdosing on THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gives users its signature 'high' feeling. Researchers found that the risk for schizophrenia was a staggering 241 times higher among people needing hospitalization for cannabis-induced psychosis. This temporary mental health condition triggered by cannabis use causes hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. The report found that the main cause of this major health risk was the significant rise in the levels of THC within cannabis, which has gone from just four percent 20 years ago to 20 percent today. Dr Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa said: 'Cannabis from the 2000s is not the same as in 2025.' While schizophrenia itself is not a fatal condition, it can lead to life-threatening situations as these patients have a higher risk of dying by suicide due to severe symptoms such as depression. A new report have found a concerning link between cannabis use and the development of mental health disorders (Stock Image) Regular cannabis users hospitalized for THC exposure were 14 times more likely to develop schizophrenia within 3 years (Stock Image) The new report from CMAJ pooled the results from five separate studies on cannabis use in Canada. These studies included data gathered from a large population-based study in Ontario involving 9.8 million people. That specific dataset helped researchers find the growing connection between cannabis-induced health issues and schizophrenia. Study authors warned that the higher potency of cannabis today showed a direct link to psychosis risk, especially among younger users, men, and those with a history of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Overall, the report revealed that about 0.47 percent of cannabis users end up experiencing symptoms of psychosis. That's roughly one in every 200 users. However, up to 76 percent of those who do experience these symptoms for more than 24 hours end up needing emergency care - sending their chances of developing schizophrenia skyrocketing. Schizophrenia is treated with a combination of antipsychotic medications, therapy, and support. Antipsychotic drugs, like risperidone and olanzapine can help manage symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions by balancing brain chemicals. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can help patients cope with symptoms and improve their daily functioning. Approximately 18 millions Americans report using cannabis products on a daily basis (Stock Image) As for regular cannabis users who haven't developed mental health problems, study authors said there is one definitive way to reduce their risk: stop using cannabis. Moreover, the report warned that continuing to use cannabis after an initial episode of psychosis led to an increased risk that the symptoms would return. Using cannabis, especially high-potency products with more than 20 percent THC, can cause some people to experience severe nausea and vomiting. Rapid heart rate, chest pains that mimic a heart attack, or fainting can also occur and require an urgent trip to the hospital. Overdosing on THC, particularly from consuming edibles or using vapes, can lead to extreme confusion, agitation, or a loss of coordination, all of which can increase the risk of a serious accident. Among users with pre-existing mental health conditions, cannabis-related health problems can include worsening symptoms of anxiety or depression, such as severe mood swings or suicidal thoughts. Cannabis status in the US has been complex for years, with recreational use legal in 24 states and Washington DC, and medical use allowed in 38 states as of 2025. However, it remains a Schedule I drug federally, classified as highly dangerous with no accepted medical use. The Biden administration proposed moving cannabis to Schedule III in May 2024, recognizing its potential as a medical treatment, but a January 2025 hearing was canceled, leaving the decision to the Trump administration. Vaping is often sold as a cleaner, healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes. But a new study shows that vapers might be getting a lot more than a nicotine hit when they take a puff from an e-cigarette. Scientists from the University of Florida found that vape mouthpieces are swarming with harmful fungi. With their enclosed, plastic design and frequent warming from regular use, vapes are a perfect environment for fungi to develop. This is made much worse by the fact that the majority of users reported never cleaning their vapes. While very few vapes harbour bacteria, more than half of the disposable vapes tested by researchers were 'abundantly colonised' by fungi. Of these, over 80 per cent were capable of causing ill health, including pathogens which can cause lung diseases such as chronic bronchitis. The most common of these species is a fungus called Cystobasidium minutum, which can cause blood infections in people with weakened immune systems. Scientists have issued an urgent warning to vapers as they found that e-cigarette mouthpieces are 'abundantly colonised' by harmful fungi (stock image) E-cigarettes work by heating a battery-powered coil submerged in liquid containing nicotine, producing a vapour that users can inhale. Although vaping is generally regarded as safer than smoking tobacco, research into the long-term health effects is still in its infancy. Typically, previous research has focused on the toxicity of the e-liquids themselves and the effect that exposure to the vapour has on lung cells. For example, a study published last year found that the chemicals used to give e-liquids their sweet flavour could lead to lung damage. The study found that exposure to flavoured vapour harmed the defensive cells which patrol our lungs and keep them free of bacteria, leading to a higher risk of infection. However, scientists haven't paid much attention to the microbes that might be hitching a ride into your airways along with the nicotine vapour. To investigate this, researchers recruited 25 participants who used disposable vapes every day and took swabs of their e-cigarettes' mouthpieces. The scientists then cultured these samples, allowing them to grow on petri dishes, to see what microbes were lurking. Researchers took samples from 25 vape mouthpieces and cultured them to reveal the disgusting amount of fungi that are living inside (pictured) The vast majority of participants, a third of whom report having respiratory issues, report never cleaning their vapes. This graph shows how often each person cleans their vapes (top), and how many fungi of each type were found This revealed that the mouthpiece of your vape is crawling with up to 35 different types of fungi, the vast majority of which have the capability to cause illness. The samples were also compared to cultures taken from the participants' mouths, which revealed that the pathogens weren't coming from the individuals themselves. That means the harmful fungi must be coming from somewhere else in the environment. Some of these fungi may come from the air, our hands, or the general dirt around us, but others might have already been in the vape liquids when they were purchased. Co-author Dr Jason Smith, of the Emerging Pathogens Institute, told New Scientist: 'The residues left behind inside the vape device may provide a food source for moulds to grow.' In their pre-print paper, the researchers argue that 'fungal contamination of e-cigarette devices' contributes to the development of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This disease includes a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties, shortness of breath, and a persistent chesty cough. In the study, a third of participants involved said that they had respiratory symptoms such as coughing. The researchers had mice inhale the most common fungus found in vapes, Cystobasidium minutum, to see how vaping this fungus would affect their lungs. Pictures B, F, G, and H show the lung tissue of affected mice, revealing the development of chronic bronchitis To get a better understanding of how vaping these fungi might affect people's lungs, the researchers had mice inhale the most common pathogen, C. minutum. Lead author Dr Borna Mehrad says: 'We found that the fungus that was most prevalent in the vape samples caused features of chronic bronchitis in mice.' This condition is defined as inflammation of the airways, which leads to flu-like symptoms, and is one of the conditions which lead to COPD. The researchers urge vape users to clean their vape mouthpieces regularly to avoid the buildup of fungi. However, they stress that there currently isn't enough research to show that these fungi are in high enough numbers to cause illness in most users. For many, it would be a dream come true. A lucky family were treated to an aquatic masterclass after a playful dolphin joined them on their morning swim. Lynda MacDonald, 50, and her partner, son and his girlfriend, set out for their 6am morning swim at Lyme Bay, Dorset on August 3. Seconds after the family jumped off their boat for they were joined by the huge bottlenose dolphin. The footage shows the playful mammal dancing across the water in a vertical position, asking for belly rubs and guiding people across the water with its beak. Now, experts have revealed what the behaviour really means. Thea Taylor, managing director of the Sussex Dolphin Project, said she believes the dolphin was a young male adult who wanted to 'make connections'. 'Bottlenose dolphins are inherently curious animals and have often been shown to mimic behaviours of other individuals and other animals,' she told The Daily Mail. The playful dolphin appeared to dance in the water as it performed for its awestruck audience on their morning swim The bottlenose dolphin approached the family shortly after they entered the water for their 6am swim at Lyme Bay, Dorset on August 3 'It may be that this curious dolphin was trying to mimic the people's upright position in the water. 'Playing and mimicking movement is one of the main ways in which dolphins secure bonds with other individuals so, if it is a solitary dolphin without a pod it may be trying to find connections with other animals. 'The behaviour does really look like the animal is playing, the animal is choosing to stay with the family and they gave the animal space to move off when it was ready.' She warned that while this was a situation where the dolphin appeared to seek out the family, she strongly encourages other people not to seek out animals like this. 'Encouraging interactions with people can be dangerous for the animal, and people too,' she said. 'They are powerful animals and may not intentionally hurt people, but accidents can happen.' A closer look at the dolphin's behaviour suggests it was performing a manoeuvre known as spyhopping effectively treading water. This involves the dolphin holding itself vertically and kicking with its tail in order to hold its head above the water. The dolphin even rolled on its back as it begged for belly rubs from its willing swimming companions The behaviour is commonly used to visually inspect the environment above the water line. The dolphin in the video also appears to approach and rub itself against the swimmers. While reasons for this may be unclear, similar actions recorded during other humandolphin encounters have led scientists to believe it could be misdirected sexual advances. In 2018, a 'lovelorn' dolphin's interest toward humans caused a French town to ban swimming. The animal, named Zafar, would rub up against swimmers, boats and kayaks and even allowed people to hold on to his dorsal fin in the Bay of Brest. In other instances, the dolphin prevented a female swimmer from returning to shore she was later rescued by boat and lifted another woman out of the water with his nose Elizabeth Hawkins, lead researcher with Dolphin Research Australia, explained that solitary male dolphins may rub themselves on people or objects to form and reinforce bonds. 'It's been observed that dolphins and different whale species will rub themselves against objects with what appears to be some type of sexual satisfaction coming about,' she said at the time. The footage shows the playful mammal dancing across the water in a vertical position, asking for belly rubs and guiding people across the water with its nose According to Dorset Wildlife Trust, 28 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises have been recorded along the UK coastline a number of these in Dorset. Bottlenose dolphins tend to spend more time inshore than other species, making them easier to spot from the land as well as from the sea. They are regularly seen off the coast of the UK, especially in Moray Firth, Scotland, Cardigan Bay, Wales, and off the coasts of Cornwall and Northumberland. The UK is thought to have a population of around 700 coastal bottlenose dolphins, who are renowned being highly sociable and indulging in playful demonstrations like leaping and bowriding. Jess Churchill-Bissett, Head of Marine Conservation (wildlife) at the Marine Management Organisation, said: The arrival of a dolphin in a small coastal community can be a source of wonder and pride. But its vital to remember that dolphins are vulnerable and unpredictable wild animals protected by law. We all have a responsibility to respect their space, keep a safe distance, and understand how our actions can unintentionally cause harm or even constitute a criminal offence. By giving these animals space, observing them from a distance and acting responsibly we help ensure their health and survival, so they remain a part of our coast now and for generations to come. A hurricane warning has been issued in the Atlantic Ocean as Tropical Storm Erin continues to strengthen while moving west across the open sea. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued the alert at 5:00am ET, noting that it applies to ships and mariners, as Erin is forecast to reach hurricane strength within the next 36 to 48 hours. Sustained winds are forecast to reach 80 mph with gusts up to 98 mph within the next day and a half, producing very rough seas up to 20 feet. Winds could strengthen further to 98 mph with gusts of 121 mph over the next two days, reaching Category 3 status. Erin is moving west at about 17 mph, guided by a high-pressure system to the north, and is expected to turn slightly west-northwest later tonight and continue that path into the weekend. While the NHC is uncertain about Erin's impact on the US, meteorologist Noah Bergen shared a new projection for the next eight days, showing it taking a turn northwest and unleashing hurricane-force gusts over Cape Hatteras. 'Example why we need to stop writing off Erin having some impact on the US -- a recurve remains the expectation, but how close that recurve happens is still very much an open-ended question,' Bergen shared on X. Although the NHC remains unsure of Erins effects on the US, meteorologist Noah Bergen released an eight-day forecast indicating the storm could bring hurricane-strength gusts to Cape Hatteras The predicted path to North Carolina is based on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) model. Known for its high accuracy, the ECMWF model utilizes advanced dynamical forecasting techniques, integrating real-time data such as sea surface temperatures (SSTs), atmospheric pressure patterns and satellite imagery. This model is widely respected for its ability to predict hurricane trajectories and intensity up to 10 to 15 days in advance, making it a key tool for tracking Erin's potential recurve path and its impact on the US East Coast. However, more conservative models show Erin curving north along the eastern coast and moving out to sea by August 21. Jeff Berardelli, chief meteorologist at WFLA-TV in Tampa Bay, said that the latest forecast models mostly agree that Erin will pass safely east of North Carolina. 'But the Euro and Euro AI model - while still offshore - are too close for comfort,' he shared on X. 'That's because they track further south initially and make the turn a little later.' While this closer path is not the most likely scenario, it could happen, so residents should be ready in case Erin passes near the Outer Banks, said Berardelli. Tropical Storm Erin is likely to reach hurricane status over the next 36 to 48 hours Erin is located approximately 990 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands in the West Indies, moving 17mph west. 'This general motion is expected to continue today, with a west-northwestward motion beginning tonight and continuing into the weekend,' the NHC said. 'On the forecast track, the center of Erin is likely to move near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend.' The NHC predicts it will start producing maximum sustained winds of 80mph on Friday and gusts up to 98mph, deeming it a Category 1 hurricane. AccuWeather's model is showing Erin curve north and head out to sea next week Forecasters remain confident that Erin 'will be a large and powerful hurricane over the southwestern Atlantic Ocean this weekend.' 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. 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. '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. Scientists have identified the cause of a 'mysterious tsunami' that struck Southeast Alaska, sending water surging up slopes to 100 feet above sea level. Early on August 10, the Alaska Earthquake Center received reports of a sudden, localized tsunami in the remote Endicott Arm area. Waves measuring 10 to 15 feet were recorded near Harbor Island, while nearby Sawyer Island saw water climb 100 feet. While tsunamis are typically caused by major earthquakes, scientists found no significant seismic activity in the area, deepening the mystery. Researchers at the Earthquake Center analyzed seismic data, discovering a massive landslide near South Sawyer Glacier, with an estimated volume exceeding 3.5 billion cubic feet the equivalent of 40,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Alaska Earthquake Center director Michael West said: 'This is larger than anything in the past decade in Alaska.' Landslides can trigger tsunamis by displacing large amounts of water. Alec Bennett, assistant professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, told the Daily Mail: 'Events like this can be triggered in a number of ways, including seismic activity, ground thawing, or heavy rainfall. 'Often, the landslide triggers a seismic reading, and the tsunami follows as rock, soil, and debris rapidly displace water.' Scientists have identified the cause of a 'mysterious tsunami' that struck Southeast Alaska on August 10, when the Alaska Earthquake Center received reports of water surging up slopes to 100 feet in the remote Endicott Arm area The Alaska Earthquake Center is working with other agencies 'to understand the full sequence of events.' On Facebook, it added, 'All evidence suggests that this set of 10- to 15-foot waves was set in motion by a landslide of several tens of millions of cubic meters of rock striking the water.' Portions of the landslide debris rolled onto Sawyer Glacier, while the rest tumbled into Tracy Arm, creating a seiche, a trapped tsunami within the fjord. The center said this may be the largest landslide and tsunami in Alaska since 2015. The US Coast Guard conducted an aerial survey of the landslide at South Sawyer Glacier and Tracy Arm Fjord. Video footage shows debris strewn across the ground and a clear path of destruction down the mountainside, highlighting the event's immense scale. 'One thing to note is that this type of event has happened in Alaska in the past, and the 1958 Lituya Bay incident is a good example, although the resulting tsunami was much larger,' said Bennett. Lituya Bay experienced a massive megatsunami when a magnitude 7.8 earthquake triggered a rockslide into the narrow inlet, sending a wave that surged up to 1,720 feet, the tallest ever recorded. The tsunami devastated the surrounding forest and destroyed boats, but remarkably, only a few people survived. 'Narrow bays, inlets, lakes, etc., tend to be a little more prone to these since the amount of land mass can displace a larger portion of the available water quickly,' said Bennet. Waves measuring 10 to 15 feet were recorded near Harbor Island, and while tsunamis are typically caused by major earthquakes, water at nearby Sawyer Island climbed 100 feet despite no significant seismic activity, deepening the mystery 'But as we go forward, the conditions that contribute to these events are likely to become more common. Fortunately, this event didnt occur in a populated area, but as we see more of these in the future, that likelihood increases.' The tsunami hit just days before Alaska's capital suffered massive flooding and record-high water levels after an ice dam burst at a nearby glacier, releasing a powerful surge of rainwater and snowmelt. Residents are urged to use extreme caution near damaged structures, stay off riverbanks, and avoid driving through standing water,' a statement from the Juneau city website reads. 'Officials warn that driving through flooded areas can create damaging waves that further impact nearby buildings.' Data collected after the event shows the water likely went 100 feet up the hillside near Sawyer Island The newly installed flood barriers, built earlier this year to protect the community from the looming ice caps, are believed to be the reason the community was spared from further devastation. 'They really have protected our community,' Juneau City Manager Katie Koester said during a news conference. 'If it weren't for them, we would have hundreds and hundreds of flooded homes.' 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 10,000 'Hesco' barriers are essentially giant, reinforced sandbags intended to protect more than 460 properties, said emergency manager Ryan O'Shaughnessy, The Associated Press reported. The Juneau Assembly required homeowners in the flood zone to cover 40 percent of the cost, amounting to about $6,300 each over 10 years. Additionally, a handful of homeowners were asked to chip in $50,000 toward reinforcing the riverbank. Only about one-quarter of the residents formally objected, not enough to call quits on the project. While flooding did occur, the impacts were far less severe than those seen in 2023 and 2024, when nearly 300 homes were inundated during similar glacial outburst events. The tsunami hit just days before Alaska's capital suffered massive flooding and record-high water levels after an ice dam burst at a nearby glacier, releasing a powerful surge of rainwater and snowmelt (PICTURED) The devastating flooding began after water from Suicide Basin - a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier, located about 10 miles above the state's capital - broke free, inundating roads, damaging infrastructure, and prompting emergency warnings. 'A glacial outburst has occurred at Suicide Basin,' officials wrote in a statement on Tuesday afternoon. 'The basin is releasing and flooding is expected along the Mendenhall Lake and River late Tuesday through Wednesday.' City officials urged residents living within the 17-foot lake level inundation zone to evacuate the area immediately, adding that when the area is deemed 'all clear,' a wireless emergency alert will be sent to residents, Fox4 News reported. Roads across the region were closed, including Mendenhall Loop Road, which will remain off-limits until water levels drop below 12 feet and safety inspections are complete. Archaeologists have unearthed a 2,000-year-old coin in Jerusalem that was minted shortly before the destruction of the Second Temple, an event Jesus predicted in the Bible. The bronze coin dates to between 69 and 70 AD, just decades after Jesus was crucified, and was made by Jewish rebels during the fourth year of the Great Revolt against the Romans. The revolt, also known as the First Jewish-Roman War, was a major uprising by the Jewish population against Roman rule in Judea, occurring between 66 and 73 AD. Because the coin was minted right before the Temple's destruction, it comes from the exact period when Jerusalem was under siege. Jesus predicted the Temple's fall in the Gospels, saying that not one stone would be left on another. These passages, found in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, are seen as foretelling the Temple's destruction by the Romans in 70 AD. The coin itself carries powerful symbolism, with its obverse side bearing an inscription in ancient Hebrew script: 'For the Redemption of Zion,' expressing the rebels' hope during the final months of the uprising. On the reverse is a lulav, a palm frond used in the Sukkot festival, accompanied by two etrogs, the citron fruit also used in the ritual. The Sukkot festival commemorates the Israelites' 40 years of wandering in the desert after the Exodus from Egypt. The bronze coin was minted by Jewish rebels shortly before the destruction of the Second Temple, an event Jesus predicted Archaeologists noted: 'It is also possible that the representations of the ritual 'Four Species' depicted on the coin were intended to evoke among the rebels a sense of redemption and anticipation of a hoped-for miracle and happier times.' The Great Revolt occurred in Judea, sparked by religious tensions, heavy taxation, and political oppression under Roman rule. The Jewish rebels initially scored victories but were ultimately overwhelmed by the Roman legions. It ended in 73 CE with the fall of Masada, leaving tens of thousands dead and many others enslaved or exiled. The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans as punishment for the Jewish revolt and to eliminate the central symbol of Jewish worship and resistance, placing the coin's minting in the tense months leading up to this pivotal event. The coin was found near the southwest corner of the Temple Mount during excavations led by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). Yanniv David Levy, a researcher and curator in the coin department of the IAA, said: 'The coin is made of bronze, and its state of preservation is quite good. 'On its obverse side, you can see a model of a goblet, and around it is an inscription in ancient Hebrew script: 'LeGe'ulat Zion', 'For the Redemption of Zion.' The coin dates to 6970 AD, just decades after Jesus crucifixion, during the fourth year of the Great Revolt against Rome The coin was found while teams were excavating a massive fortification near the Temple Mount (PICTURED) The coin was found at a monumental fortification discovered by the team last year. Created by extensive quarrying, the moat formed a massive channel separating the City of David from the Temple Mount and the Ophel area. Cliffs on either side made the moat impassable. While its original purpose was uncertain, further excavations and connections with earlier findings revealed it as the northern fortification line of the lower city. 'It is not known when the moat was originally cut, but evidence suggests it was used during the centuries when Jerusalem was the capital of the Kingdom of Judah, almost 3,000 years ago, beginning with King Josiah,' the IAA shared. 'During those years, the moat separated the southern residential part of the city from the ruling Acropolis in the north; the upper city, where the palace and the temple were located.' The IAA explained that creating the moat was a massive, monumental undertaking, designed to reshape the natural landscape and demonstrate the power of Jerusalems rulers to anyone entering the city. According to researchers, the project required advanced engineering skills and substantial resources, highlighting the strength and authority of the citys leaders. The moat itself is at least 30 feet deep and no less than 100 feet wide. Jason Momoa revealed how he almost died in a terrifying surfing accident that still haunts him to this day. The 46-year-old actor opened up to Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes on the latest episode of the Smartless podcast about how he nearly drowned after 'giving up' off the coast of Maui, Hawaii, in 2007. He explained that he and a group of friends were enjoying a a 13-mile paddle along the island's coast when the situation took a dire turn when his leash snapped. Horror moment: Jason Momoa, 46, recalled how he nearly drowned during a 2007 surfing trip off the coast of Maui, Hawaii He said: 'I was doing this paddle, we went in at Jaws,' referring to the surf break located on the northern shore of Maui, which draws the world's top surfers to its enormous - and deadly - waves. He said: 'You're kind of almost a mile offshore, and then my leash snapped. We're about seven miles into it and my leash snapped, and it's so windy on Maui.' Jason, who was at the time starring on Stargate: Atlantis, said he was 'trained pretty well' at the time, so he initially felt 'fine,' but things took a turn for the worse as waves began to batter him. 'I took quite a few on the head. They're pretty big, like 10-foot Hawaiian waves,' he shared. 'But I'm probably half a mile at that point offshore.' But as he began to tire from staying afloat in the chaotic sea, Jason got to a point where he was 'stuck in this crazy spot,' which he thought may have been the outer ridge of a coral reef, which kept him out of sight of his friends. 'I was really on the outer reef and they couldn't see me,' he said. 'I had my paddle and I was waving it and they couldn't see me, and the waves were so big.' The actor began to panic as he thought about his three-month-old daughter Lola, now 18, who he shares with ex-wife Lisa Bonet. The couple later welcomed so Nakoa-Wolf, 16. He said: 'I just lost it. I was like, "Oh s***."' Jason said he began to just drift in the water as he feared that he had been left behind by the rest of his group. He recalled: 'I was out there for a while, and I just couldn't see anyone coming to get me. I couldn't move anymore, and my arms and my legs gave up. My body stopped. Like I couldn't move my arms anymore, and I bubbled down. Then my toe hit the outer reef. Moment: He said he was six miles into a 13-mile route with friends when his 'leash snapped.' He friends couldn't see that he was left behind because of the massive waves buffeting them Scary: He says his body 'started to give up' during the ordeal Kids: Jason shares daughter Lola, 18, (right) and son Nakoa-Wolf, 16,with ex-wife Lisa Bonet He said: 'I literally gave up, and I'm screaming inside.' But he got the motivation to go on at the last possible moment when one of his friends spotted him and swam out toward him for support. 'I get back on the board and we start paddling,' he recalled, adding that it wasn't possible to just swim the shorter distance back to shore. 'He's like, "You got to go out," so we just keep paddling out.' Jason and his friend still had seven more miles to go on the journey, even as the 'brutal' waves battered them the whole way. By that point, the actor was bleeding profusely from cutting himself on the reef lurking just below the surface. 'My feet are covered in blood,' he recounted. 'And I'm just literally [with] my ancestors just paddling the rest of this way, head down and we get out.' Fame: After surviving the journey, Jason went on to have a career revival started by his iconic role on Game Of Thrones. He followed it up by playing Aquaman in multiple films, as well as starring in the Dune and Fast And Furious series; still from Aquaman (2018) New show: He can currently be seen on the nine-episode miniseries Chief Of War (pictured), which began airing on Apple TV+ on August 1 While he once carved his name into Canadas Olympic snowboarding history, Ryan James Weddings name is now etched on a different list: the FBIs Ten Most Wanted. In September 2024, the 43-year-old athlete was among 16 people charged in Operation Giant Slalom, accused of running a billion-dollar cocaine smuggling network spanning from Colombia, through Mexico, and into the U.S. and Canada. Prosecutors say Wedding - who is otherwise known as El Jefe and Public Enemy - is the alleged leader of the network and has orchestrated multiple drug-related murders, showing a callous disregard for human life. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO From one white powder to another: Ryan Wedding competed for Canada in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City but he is now on FBIs most wanted list as a cocaine smuggler He is believed to be hiding in central Mexico, using cartel connections to stay beyond the reach of federal authorities. The FBI said last week there is some evidence Wedding may have recently undergone cosmetic surgery to alter his appearance and further evade detection Wedding has been on the run since at least 2015, when he was named in the Royal Canadian Mounted Polices (RCMP) two-year Operation Harrington, which uncovered schemes to import cocaine into Canada and resulted in charges against more than a dozen suspects. Case files show Wedding - then living in Montreal - introduced himself to an undercover agent as a cocaine importer and discussed shipments of up to 2,205lb by boat from the Caribbean to Newfoundland. The deal was called off, but three months later, the French Navy seized 467lbs of the drug near Antigua, triggering raids across Canada and 15 arrests. According to the RCMP, the group had planned to move 15 tons of cocaine. Wedding faced five charges and an arrest warrant was issued; however, he is believed to have fled Canada before police could snare him. Most wanted: In March, Wedding was added to the FBI's list of Ten Most Wanted Fugitives. He was last spotted in 2024 (above), but is believed to have undergone plastic surgery Harrington files cast him as a senior partner in the operation, overseeing encrypted deals under multiple code names, though the precise scope of his role remains unclear. He has been considered a fugitive of justice ever since. Then came the DOJ indictment last fall, alleging that Wedding and his supposed right-hand man, fellow Canadian Andrew Clark, led the billion-dollar ring while living in Mexico. Investigators have publicly linked the pair to four killings in Ontario but have hinted at more orchestrated hits across North America. Kingpin: The former snowboarder is accused of running a billion-dollar cocaine smuggling operation, trafficking the drug from Columbia to North America Reward: The FBI is offering up to $10million for information that leads to his arrest Prosecutors say Wedding and Clark ordered the November 2023 killing of Jagtar Singh, 57, and Harbhajan Kaur, 55 - a mistaken-identity hit on a visiting couple from India. Their daughter, who was shot 13 times but miraculously survived, recalled: I heard my mother's last screams. After that, there was complete silence. Only the noises of gunshots. Then, in April 2024, Clark allegedly sent a hit list to a gunman known as Mr Perfect Blow this guys top off, he wrote, offering $100,000. Soon after, 29-year-old Randy Fader was shot dead in his Niagara driveway. Mr. Perfect was arrested in Toronto two weeks later with 9mm rounds and a white iPhone showing encrypted chats with Clark and additional targets. Clark, 34, was arrested in Guadalajara in October 2024 and now awaits trial in California with several co-defendants. The FBI has not revealed what cosmetic modifications Wedding has undergone, nor what their evidence entails Wedding and a handful of his alleged cronies remain on the run. He has been charged with eight felonies, including three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. Authorities believe Wedding is living in Mexico, under the protection of the infamous Sinaloa Cartel. US authorities are offering $10million for information leading to his arrest. FBI spokesperson Laura Eimiller told the Toronto Star on Sunday that investigators believe Wedding may have recently had cosmetic surgery to alter his appearance. There is some evidence that he may have undergone plastic surgery... so we urge the public to be flexible when considering his appearance, Eimiller said. The FBI has not revealed what modifications they believe Wedding has undergone. Organized crime: Wedding's group is accused of committing 'unremitting, callous and greed-driven crimes' The last confirmed sighting of Wedding was captured by the FBI in 2024. A photograph from the sighting, first shared publicly in March, shows the 6'3, 240lb disgraced athlete with short hair and a mustache, wearing a blue LA Dodgers cap and a Louis Vuitton T-shirt. Eimiller said that Wedding has been sophisticated in his ability to evade authorities. The 2024 sighting contrasts sharply with a photo the FBI released of Weddings drivers license a decade earlier, showing him with a bushy brown beard, long curly hair, and a receding hairline. The hunt has involved agencies across the US, Canada, Mexico and Colombia, with Interpol support. Authorities have seized nearly two tons of cocaine and more than $3.2 million in cryptocurrency. Prosecutors have alleged that Wedding is still actively trafficking drugs from the shadows, claiming in March 2025 that his network was flooding North America with five tons of fentanyl a month. The gang: Many of Wedding's alleged associates have been arrested as part of Operation Giant Slalom Authorities warned Wedding access to a network of hitmen, ready to do his bidding at a moments notice, meaning anyone who crosses him could be in danger. One such adversary was Montreal-born Jonathan Acebedo-Garcia, who had recently become a key witness in the investigation into the Wedding web, but was assassinated in Medellin, Colombia, on January 31. As The Star first reported, Garcia met Wedding in prison in 2011 while they were both serving time for drug-related offenses. They worked together for more than a decade before Garcia turned on Wedding in 2023, agreeing to help authorities dismantle his criminal operation. Weddings fall from the Olympic slopes into the depths of the criminal underworld has been a dizzying downhill run, leaving those who were once closest to him unable to see where - or why - he veered off course. He was born into a family of skiers in Thunder Bay, Ontario, a working-class city on Lake Superior. His father was a competitive skier, his uncle had represented Canada, and his grandparents ran a grassroots ski club. Most of Weddings time was spent out on the slopes before he could even read. Going to the Olympics felt like a surefire destiny, childhood friends told Rolling Stone in 2009. He had no fear, said Bobby Allison, former national champion ski racer. A lot of kids, they say they want to go fast, but they dont really want to go fast. They hold something back, because theres a little bit of fear there of falling. Ryan had none of that. Wedding eventually traded his ski poles for a snowboard and won the first race he ever entered at the age of 12. Three years later, he was selected to join the Canadian national team and began competing all over the world. Then, at the age of 20, Wedding got his first taste of stardom when he qualified to compete at the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City. He finished in a disappointing 24th place in the parallel giant slalom - but his future looked bright. Friends say it was shortly after enrolling at Simon Fraser University near Vancouver that Weddings shine started to dim. He told his father he had plans to reinvent himself as a stockbroker or engineer, but as his sporting career faded, his hunger for glory was replaced by a growing taste for wealth, status, and risky pursuits. Sports career: The ex-snowboarder was part of the Canadian team at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake In the early 2000s, Vancouver was home to the most profitable marijuana trade in North America. It was also a hotbed for gang activity, with rival dealers gunning each other down in the streets and in nightclubs as they tussled over turf and fought to corner the market. Wedding took up a job as a bouncer at a nightclub and began brushing shoulders with gangsters and attending cocaine-fueled parties. After two years, he decided to drop out of college and told his father he was interested in real estate. Wedding borrowed $250,000 from his father to buy a home that he flipped for a six-figure profit. Wedding spent the money on a new condo in the Vancouver area and filled its garage with a Hummer, a Ducati, a BMW, and snowmobiles. Friends were suspicious about his suddenly lavish spending, but he would shrug off their concerns, assuring them his real estate ventures were booming. Police, too, grew suspicious and, in 2004, started investigating him, believing Wedding was running a marijuana-growing operation on a friends farm. It was said they were making so much money they were hauling out trash bags full of cash. In hiding: Authorities believe Wedding is still pulling the strings of his operation from the shadows Suspicions: The Sinaloa cartel is believed to be harboring Wedding (file photo) In the summer of 2006, police raided the grow-op and discovered loaded guns in a locked safe, 6,800 marijuana plants, and 86lb of dried weed. The total haul was estimated to be worth $10million. However, with no conclusive evidence linking Wedding to the operation, he was never charged. Two years later, Wedding wouldnt be so lucky. After losing nearly $1million in a botched cocaine deal and a failed real estate scheme, he travelled to California looking for a score. There, he brokered a deal to move 53lb of cocaine. However, it was a sting and he was arrested and later convicted of conspiracy to distribute drugs, which carried a minimum sentence of 10 years. Wedding successfully negotiated a lesser sentence of 48 months after appealing to the judge: As an athlete, I was always taught that there are no second chances, and well, Im here asking for exactly that. It was during his time serving that sentence that Wedding first met Clark, also imprisoned for drug offenses, and many other minor players in the Mexican drug market. One former FBI agent told Rolling Stone: 'We really did just turn him into a much better drug dealer than he ever was.' Upon his release, police said that Wedding allegedly went back to trafficking and built his 'prolific and ruthless organization. How long he can stay hidden remains an open question. In the meantime, all his family can do is wonder what happened to the promising young athlete they once knew. You can have every opportunity and still take the wrong path, his mom said in 2009. But it doesnt mean youre a bad person. Sixteen years later, the FBI disagrees. Assistant Director of the FBIs LA Field Office, Akil Davis, said in March 2025: Wedding went from shredding powder on the slopes at the Olympics to distributing powder cocaine on the streets. The alleged murders of his competitors make Wedding a very dangerous man. Tourists have been warned not to do five specific things on holiday to avoid fines costing hundreds. Millions of Brits will be jetting off this summer and most won't want to be landed with additional charges during their travels. UK holiday provider holidaylodges.co.uk has revealed the hidden costs that can crop up on holidays. From bringing extra guests without permission to losing the holiday home key, there's plenty that can go wrong and lead to surprise fees. One thing that could see an unsuspecting tourist slapped with a fine is taking home the towels or robes. Hotels and holiday homes often provide bath and hand towels, as well as dressing gowns for added comfort. Unbeknownst to some, they aren't for keeps. According to holidaylodges.co.uk, guests have been hit with charges of up to 150 for taking them home. Tourists have been warned to not do five specific things on holiday to avoid fines costing hundreds UK holiday provider holidaylodges.co.uk has revealed the hidden costs that can crop up on holidays They recommend asking the owner where the items were purchased from, instead of helping themselves. Although it may be an accident, losing the holiday home key could bring a hefty charge too. Keys are small and easily lost, especially while trying to balance several bags and cases too. But losing them could be expensive, with locksmith services, lock replacement and key cutting coming to a 375 charge. Holidays can sometimes be chaotic and leaving the accommodation in a reasonable condition may feel difficult but it's essential to avoid an added cost. The holiday provider revealed messy tourists can face cleaning fees ranging from 50 to a whopping 200. They recommend checking the host's policy in advance. It may be difficult to be packed and ready to leave by a certain time, especially early in the morning. Holidays can sometimes be chaotic and leaving the accommodation in a reasonable condition may feel difficult but it's essential to avoid an added cost The holiday provider company revealed messy tourists can face cleaning fees ranging from 50 to a whopping 200 But checking out late can also lead to extra charges. Some holiday home owners charge up to 80 per hour for departures past the agreed time, according to holidaylodges.co.uk. Finally, another thing holidaymakers should avoid is bringing extra visitors to stay with them. Bringing additional guests where not agreed or paid for can lead to fees usually between 15 to 40 per person. There's plenty of things to consider when visiting somewhere new - from the language, different cuisine, to cultural norms. Rules and laws vary across countries, too, and some may seem surprising to foreigners. Dubai has strict regulations around government buildings, while in France, drivers should be aware of a certain type of footwear when driving. In Venice, pigeons are a no-go for feeding, and in Singapore, lovers of chewing gum might struggle. Read on below to find out all the surprisingly illegal things around the world. Dubai In the United Arab Emirates, people are prohibited taking photographs of government buildings. The UK Foreign Office warns: 'It is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations. 'Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.' In the United Arab Emirates, people are prohibited taking photographs of government buildings Greece A popular destination for its sandy beaches, white buildings and delicious cuisine. But tourists visiting Greece should be mindful of what shoes they wear when sightseeing historic structures. High heels have been banned from landmarks in Athens, including the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre, since 2009. Anyone not following the rule could be hit with a 900 fine, according to the The Express. Italy While in Venice, visitors may be enamoured by the many characterful pigeons, but they are prohibited from feeding them. It's been illegal to do so since 2008, when the sale and distribution of grain to feed pigeons was banned. At the time, according to Reuters, the pesky birds were pecking at marble statues in the cities looking for crumbs. High heels have been banned from landmarks in Athens including the Acropolis and the Epidaurus Theatre since 2009 While in Venice, Italy, visitors may be enamoured by the many characterful pigeons, but they are prohibited from feeding them France Any holidaymakers driving through France should be careful of their footwear choice. Drivers are prohibited from wearing 'unsuitable footwear' according to Travel And Tour World. Officers often check those in popular holiday hotspots for the mistake. Sweden Previously in Sweden, venues including nightclubs and bars needed a permit for customers to be allowed to legally dance. The Swedish government said in 2023 it intended to scrap the 67-year-old law that required owners of night clubs and bars to obtain a license for dancing. Instead, it was proposed that they would have to register with the police, according to AP. Previously in Sweden, venues including nightclubs and bars needed a permit for customers to be allowed to legally dance Sri Lanka Many tourists enjoy taking photographs during their holidays as keepsakes. However, it is prohibited to take pictures with Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. The UK Foreign Office notes: 'Do not pose for photographs standing in front of a statue of Buddha.' Singapore Though perfectly acceptable to consume in the UK, chewing gum is restricted in Singapore. According to the Economic Times, it is illegal to import, sell or carry gum in the country. Those doing so need a medical prescription, and only dental gum is allowed. The law was made in an attempt to help keep the country clean, and stop damage to pavements. Egypt While in Egypt, it is prohibited to use drones without official permission. The Foreign Office warns against using the tech and says, 'It is illegal to use radio-controlled helicopters or drones to take photos near sensitive sites. 'Do not import, use or produce drones in Egypt unless the Egyptian Ministry of Defence gives you permission beforehand. 'Anyone who uses or imports drones without permission could get a prison sentence of up to 7 years or a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 Egyptian pounds.' Though perfectly acceptable to consume in the UK, chewing gum is quite restricted in Singapore While in Egypt, it is prohibited to use drones without official permission Maldives Holidaymakers should be mindful when relaxing in public beaches and local areas of what swimwear they're wearing. The Foreign Office advises: 'You should be sensitive to local dress standards when outside holiday resorts, including on beaches used by locals.' They add that men and women should 'have arms and upper legs covered when bathing'. 'Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.' While some beaches on private resorts are more relaxed with the rules and allow bikinis and other swimwear, according to Explore. Known for its bright lights, casinos and wild parties, Las Vegas has been a popular place to visit for years. But recently Sin City has seen a decline in tourists flocking to its colourful streets. Some are blaming the impact of President Donald Trump's tariffs and trade policies, with travel costs now reportedly rising for tourists visiting the country. Steve Hill, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority president, told KTNV Las Vegas: 'Some of the decisions our administration has made around international relations [have] caused a drop in tourism. 'Our international visitation is flat but is making up for a 20+% drop in tourism from Canada, which is our largest international source of visitation,' Steve added. Now, fewer tourists are filling the usually bustling casinos, restaurants and bars. Meanwhile, Circa Resort & Casino CEO Derek Stevens reportedly blamed the economy and exchange rates. However, the CEO had a brighter outlook and predicted trade agreements will help settle things down. Known for its bright lights, casinos and wild parties, Las Vegas has been a popular place to visit for years But recently Sin City has seen a decline in tourists flocking to its colourful streets He told Fox News.: 'I think in six months, I would believe that Vegas tourism and our economy overall will be in a much better place.' Robby Starbuck, host of The Robby Starbuck Show, put part of the change down to a shift in generational habits, explaining younger people bet online more, rather than go into casinos. He said: 'Another differentiator is that older generations focused on real-life interaction - while younger generations feel just as content with para-social online experiences. 'The Vegas marketing image is one centred on slots and showgirls, two things young people have no interest in.' Local business are feeling the decline, too. Steakhouse hostess Gloria Valdez, 38, has worked in Las Vegas for 15 years and shared her concerns. She told Time: 'The pandemic was something that was worldwide, and we had the hope that everything would get better. Some are blaming the impact of President Donald Trump's tariffs and trade policies, with travel costs now reportedly rising for tourists visiting the country There has been a 20% reduction in the amount of Canadian tourists visiting Las Vegas 'We're not sure if and when this is gonna stop.' And cocktail waitress Holly Lang, 47, revealed the Vegas Strip restaurant she works at is seeing a decline in customers. 'We've definitely got a lot less foot traffic and a lot less people gambling,' she said. 'A lot of the tables are empty.' However, there does seem to be some hope for the future, as a $20 million sponsorship agreement has been given the green light from the LVCVA for the Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix which could bring more visitors.. BBC Breakfast host Charlie Stayt has revealed what Sir David Jason is really like - as he brought up his 'outrageous' behaviour backstage live on the morning news programme. The Only Fools And Horses legend joined Charlie and Naga Munchetty in the studio to look back on his illustrious acting career. And within moments of sitting down for his interview, an emphatic Charlie mentioned the 85-year-old's backstage conduct. 'Very pleased to say Sir David Jason is right here with us on the sofa with us this morning,' Charlie began. He then added: 'Can I just describe for our viewers who are watching this morning - you make an entrance. 'I was quite impressed. As you came into our studio a moment ago, you were saying hello to everyone - you know how to make an entrance.' BBC Breakfast host Charlie Stayt has revealed what Sir David Jason (pictured) is really like - as he brought up his 'outrageous' behaviour backstage live on the morning news programme The Only Fools And Horses legend joined Charlie (pictured) and Naga Munchetty in the studio to look back on his illustrious acting career Taken aback, the Open All Hours star laughed, saying: 'Well it's just that I like to feel comfortable but I like also to, if you can, make the people you're with comfortable. 'The great thing is really to be a little bit outrageous, so everybody is put at ease, it's a bit of fun. 'You know, I said good morning to the camera, and nobody but the camera was there. The camera seemed to like it.' The British star went on to discuss the move from his theatre roots to studio filming, and iconic Only Fools And Horses scenes from over the years. And after the cameras finished rolling, host Naga was pictured making a stony-faced exit as she left the studio. Dressed in a striking orange dress and sunglasses, she appeared impassive as she climbed into a taxi. It comes as a fan recently revealed online what David, 85, was really like in person, keen Only Fools viewers jumped at the chance to find out. Only Fools And Horses, the BBC sitcom about two south-east London market trader brothers, won its away into the nation's hearts as soon as it hit our screens in 1981. After the cameras finished rolling, host Naga was pictured making a stony-faced exit as she left the studio Dressed in a striking orange dress and sunglasses, she appeared impassive as she climbed into a taxi Created by the inimitable late John Sullivan, it starred Sir David Jason as Derek 'Del Boy' Trotter and Nicholas Lyndhurst as his little brother Rodney. And the pair were joined in Peckham by a host of beloved supporting characters, including Grandad (Lennard Pearce) and Uncle Albert (Buster Merryfield). The fan posted on discussion site Reddit: 'My mate's dad was good friends with David and used to run a B&B in Weston-super-Mare. 'Over the years, "Uncle David" would pop by now and then and my mate would also see him at family gatherings and events.' David has had an illustrious career outside Only Fools too. He has starred variously in detective series A Touch Of Frost, grocery shop sitcom Open All Hours and fifties-set family life comedy The Darling Buds Of May. But it is ambitious Cockney Del Boy, known for his catchphrase, "This time next year, we'll be millionaires!", who seemed to capture the user's family the most. Host Charlie praised Sir David's backstage manner - as he greeted everyone on set, and Sir David laughed at his own 'outrageous' behaviour They continued: 'As you can imagine, whenever he showed up, people couldn't resist asking him to 'do a bit of Del Boy. 'He always politely declined, until one unforgettable occasion. After a bit of friendly badgering, David finally gave in. 'My mate said he took a deep breath and in that moment, everything about him changed - his posture, his expression, even the way he stood. 'It was like Del Boy had walked into the room. For the next 20 minutes, Del Boy was the life of the party, giving everyone a performance they'd never forget.' Breakfast airs daily on BBC One from 6am and is available to stream on iPlayer Yet another MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the scandal-ridden cooking series - despite the BBC having already sacked hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace. Sarah Shafi and another contestant who wanted to remain anonymous said they did not want to appear in the series given 'recent events', according to The Sun. Sarah previously said she felt 'pressured' to accept show bosses' offer to cut her from the final edits completely. This means the show's upcoming season, yet to be aired, will be heavily edited the whole way through so as not to include two competitors. It follows a report which upheld damning claims against once-beloved host Gregg Wallace, and use of unacceptable language by John Torode. At the end of last year, Wallace was accused of making sexualised jokes and other inappropriate remarks towards a range of women, with claims dating back as far as 19 years. Yet another MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the scandal-ridden cooking series - despite the BBC having already sacked hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace It follows a report which upheld damning claims against once-beloved host Wallace (R) and the use of unacceptable language by Torode (L) Since then, more than 50 people have approached the BBC with fresh claims about the presenter - including allegations he groped a MasterChef worker and pulled his trousers down in front of another. Wallace denies the claims, but was sacked by BBC bosses in November last year. The upheld complaint against Torode related to his allegedly using an extremely offensive racist term on the set of MasterChef in 2018. The beloved cooking competition has since been mired in scandal, with many watchers and even former contestants calling for the series to be axed. Sarah Shafi, of Leeds, said she felt airing MasterChef would send the wrong message about what happens when women report misconduct by men in positions of power. The 57-year-old told The Guardian: 'I said: "Axe the show, don't air the show. I'm asking you not to air the show." 'Prominent figures have been abusing their power. What message does that send out to women?' Sarah revealed she was left 'flabbergasted' after being edited out of the hit cooking competition following a heated conversation where she felt pressured to agree to the cut. Sarah Shafi and another contestant who wanted to remain anonymous said they did not want to appear in the series given 'recent events' Sarah previously said she felt 'pressured' to accept show bosses' offer to cut her from the final edits completely 'Women are being silenced,' she said. Sarah claimed she was 'eyed up and ogled' by Gregg Wallace on the show, while accusing the TV host of making an 'off' comment about his reputation with women. Unable to remember the exchange verbatim, she told Newsnight: 'I just stood there, I didn't know how to respond to that. And that I just thought, "Where's that come from? Why was he saying that to me?" 'And then later he came a bit closer and made a comment that I was really amazing and I thought, "It's weird, but I'll take it." But I thought, "I just don't like it." I felt it was off.' MasterChef viewers have been left divided as the controversial 21st series arrived on BBC iPlayer before its TV premiere after the BBC's decision to air the episodes. The popular show return to television screens earlier this month after a last-minute scramble to re-edit it and limit the appearances of Wallace and Torode. Both presenters had been axed from hosting future iterations of the long-running cookery contest. Ahead of its debut on linear television, the first three episodes of MasterChef have been made available to watch immediately on catch up. However, as fans tuck into the under-fire culinary series, they've been left divided as they flocked to social media to share their thoughts. One viewer blasted the BBC as 'disgusting' and added that the corporation 'have nothing to be proud of'. Eammon Holmes is due to reunite with a legendary GMTV star for the first time in 20 years next week. The broadcaster, 65, will be joined by Penny Smith, 66, as the latest GB News guest presenter in a shock hosting shake-up. Eamonn and Penny - who were last on our screens together presenting GMTV back in 2000 - will be hosting GB News Breakfast on Monday and Tuesday (18 and 19 August) from 6am. Penny said: 'Im thrilled to be working with Eamonn again, and what a joy to be waking up the nation once more, bringing them the latest news with a healthy dose of fun along the way. 'Its just like old times only better.' Meanwhile Eamonn added: 'Im delighted to be working with Penny again after all these years. Eammon Holmes (pictured) is due to reunite with a legendary GMTV star for the first time in 20 years next week The broadcaster, 65, will be joined by Penny Smith, 66, (pictured) as the latest GB News guest presenter in a shock hosting shake-up The Irish broadcaster usually presents the segment with his co-star Ellie Costello, 31, (pictured) 'Im sure all our viewers and listeners on GB News Breakfast will love her.' Head Of Programming at GB News, Ben Briscoe, said: 'Im absolutely delighted to welcome Penny to GB News Breakfast. 'Reuniting her with Eamonn Holmes after 20 years promises the perfect mix of warmth, wit, humour and razor-sharp insight just what our viewers love to wake up to.' The Irish broadcaster usually presents the segment with his co-star Ellie Costello, 31. Eamonn also took to Instagram to share his excitement with a snap of the pair in the studio. 'Look who's back! @whichpennysmith @eamonnholmes @gbnews.' Meanwhile Penny took to her account and said: 'Well here we are again... for a couple of days' In the video, Eamonn says: 'Wake up with a familiar face. She's back on breakfast television. Penny Smith returns.' The pair were all smiles as they announced the news on Instagram Eamonn (left) and Penny (left) presenting GMTV in London back in 1999 Eamonn has been in the industry since the 90s and has presented the likes of GMTV, This Morning and GB News Penny adds: 'Miss me? Well I'm here! And I've brought the coffee.' 'We're reuniting to brighten your morning,' Eamonn tells viewers. She adds: 'It's just like old times! Only better.' Many rushed to the comments section to share their excitement over the news. 'Fantastic news.' 'Yay!!!' 'Looks like a GMTV reunion.' 'Great presenter . Missed on TV.' Many rushed to social media to share their excitement over the step-in host presenting on Monday and Tuesday next week 'Beyond excited to hear that you'll be presenting on breakfast next week! I'll be getting up extra early to catch it all. Let's hope we see more of you on there in future.' 'Get Penny on permanently.' The pair have worked together in the past, having been stars of GMTV from 1993. Penny has been in the industry since the early 90s and has hosted shows such as Sky News and GMTV. She's also presented radio shows such as Classic FM, BBC Radio London and Magic Classical. New Lives in the Wild (Ch5) Rating: Chatting to Ben Fogle in the Kalahari desert, the Norwegian conservationist and former teenage model Aleks Orbeck made an extraordinary claim. Until the 1970s, she said, the San tribespeople once known as Bushmen were not only persecuted but even hunted for sport: 'They were classified as animals. We found a hunting brochure.' This truly shocking statement left Ben grasping for words. 'You could actually hunt a human being?' he managed to ask. 'Yeah, yeah,' she replied. If that's true, it's one of the most appalling and disgusting revelations imaginable. But that's the question is it true? I have no doubt Aleks, who has dedicated her life to preserving the San culture, believes what she says. My doubts are simply that, as far as I'm aware, this incendiary claim has never been aired before, despite a wealth of books and films about these huntergatherer tribes. Chatting to Ben Fogle in the Kalahari desert, the Norwegian conservationist and former teenage model Aleks Orbeck made an extraordinary claim The frustrating aspect of New Lives In The Wild, which returns for its 20th series, is that Ben rarely probes too deeply The frustrating aspect of New Lives In The Wild, which returns for its 20th series, is that Ben rarely probes too deeply. His kindness and sympathetic charm win him friends wherever he travels, often among people who are instinctively suspicious of strangers especially strangers accompanied by TV crews. But his easygoing diffidence makes it difficult for him to challenge what he's told. And that means he sometimes fails to uncover all the facts. The frustrating aspect of New Lives In The Wild, which returns for its 20th series, is that Ben rarely probes too deeply After a few days helping Aleks at her desert outpost and school, the Wisdom Academy, he coaxed her into talking about her recent marriage and how she met her husband, Ralph. Ben visited the lavish safari camp Ralph runs for wealthy tourists, marvelling at its palatial tents furnished with opulent divans and ornaments that appeared to be straight from Harrods. This was a far cry from the wooden huts of Aleks's camp, fenced in with an enclosure of thorny branches to keep marauding lions out. Clearly she and her husband have different ideas about life in the Kalahari, though Aleks recognises the need for tourism. 'It's a lot more sustainable than mining,' she said. 'Tourism should pay for nature. It's a renewable energy.' But Ben didn't ask whether Aleks, at 34, hoped to start a family, now that she's married. Perhaps because that question is now regarded as somewhat politically incorrect (for reasons I don't begin to understand), the subject was not broached. He missed a story. According to her posts on Instagram, Aleks is currently expecting a baby. We did learn about her previous life, leaving Oslo to join the Ford modelling agency in New York, aged 14. 'I didn't know it was going to be so lonely,' she said, with a shudder. After she was robbed at gunpoint, she fled to Africa, and has never left. The Kalahari felt like home. 'Some of us weren't born where we feel we belong,' Ben agreed. Aleks wasn't, but it seems her baby will be. As Phillip Schofield staggered on to the street after a boozy afternoon out, clutching a vape with one hand and the waist of his male companion with the other, he looked every inch the carefree bachelor. The beleaguered former presenter was accompanied by male friend Joshua Luke Sharman, a London based nurse, during an visit to the city's first LGBTQ+ dedicated cinema, the Arzner Bar & Cafe in Bermondsey. With summer temperatures soaring, Schofield, 63, looked somewhat worse for wear, but fortunately, the former This Morning star had Sharman - who describes himself as a 'nurse, academic, inexperienced aviator and clueless but optimistic PhD candidate' - on hand as a supportive and stabilising presence. Schofield's wife Stephanie Lowe - the other supportive and stabilising presence in his life, for altogether different reasons - appeared to be absent as he walked arm-in-arm with Sharman across Bermondsey Square. To all intents and purposes, the star - who came out as gay more than five years ago - looked like a carefree single man during his latest public appearance on Tuesday, despite his 32-year marriage to Stephanie. His loyal wife previously insisted she would fully support her husband's 'brave step' and 'stand by his side' as he publicly announced his sexuality during a live appearance on This Morning. But with Schofield now living as an openly gay man, one cannot help but wonder if - or indeed when - the amicable couple might finalise an equally amicable divorce. Phillip Schofield had a supportive shoulder to lean on as he rounded off a boozy visit to the pub on Tuesday afternoon - and as he knows all too well, it wouldn't be the first A growing number of celebrity couples are choosing not to divorce, despite being separated, including Phillip Schofield and wife Stephanie Lowe (pictured) The former presenter was accompanied by Joshua Luke Sharman, a London based nurse, during an appearance at the city's first LGBTQ + dedicated cinema, the Arzner Bar & Cafe Schofield was 25-years old and a fresh faced children's TV presenter when he met Stephanie, at the time a production assistant for CBBC. Six years later they were married, with the happy couple exchanging vows in appropriately romantic surroundings at the 16th century, Class A listed Ackergill Tower, located in Sinclair's Bay on Scotland's rugged northern coast. The responsibilities of parenthood would soon follow; already pregnant on her wedding day, Stephanie welcomed the couple's first child - daughter Molly - just four months later, in July 1993. Second child Ruby followed in 1996, the arrival coinciding with a transitional period for Schofield, who had branched into mainstream TV presenting and West End musical theatre after endearing himself to millions as the face of CBBC and Saturday morning kids show Going Live! Stephanie meanwhile, was an ever present, the supportive and loyal wife pictured alongside her husband at showbiz soirees and red carpet events as his career went from strength to strength. And little appears to have changed, despite Schofield - whose TV career now lies in ruins - later admitting he cheated on her with a younger male colleague while host of ITV daytime flagship This Morning, a role he occupied for 21 years before his departure in 2023. Schofield was 25-years old and a fresh faced children's TV presenter when he met Stephanie, at the time a production assistant for CBBC (pictured with daughters Molly and Ruby in 2002) Stephanie was an ever present, the supportive and loyal wife pictured alongside her husband at showbiz soirees and red carpet events as his career went from strength to strength The downturn began in 2020, when Schofield - supported by This Morning co-host Holly Willoughby - announced in a tearful address to viewers that he is gay Schofield later admitted he was suicidal during the bitter fallout that ensued, but still had the valued support of his wife and two children. However, insiders painted a more complicated picture of the family dynamic, which revealed their pulling together was a matter of more than just family loyalty. 'After so long together, Steph and Phil are co-dependent. They would rather be a united front and stay together', an insider told Daily Mail in 2024, adding that if they broke up it would 'create even more drama' for them and their daughters. Another friend said: 'They still love each other. It's that simple'. Schofield's career imploded as his infidelity with an ITV staff-member came to light, as did his once rock solid friendship with co-host Holly Willoughby, to whom he lied about the affair. Just four years earlier Willoughby had comforted the emotional presenter live on air as he confirmed his sexuality in a tearful address to millions of viewers, but the writing appeared to be on the wall after Schofield's infidelity was exposed. Loyal Stephanie remained a tower of strength for her under-fire husband (L-R: Molly Lowe, Phillip Schofield, Stephanie Lowe and Ruby Lowe on the red carpet in 2018) Regardless, loyal Stephanie remained a tower of strength for her under-fire husband. 'I love Phillip, as much today as I ever have, and always will,' she told The Sun at the time. 'We've been awestruck by the strength and love of our precious girls, even as they've been trying to make sense of it all for themselves. Our family have also been so supportive and will help us going forward. 'Although this is difficult for us all, I support Phillip in taking this brave step. I will still be there, holding his hand. Everyone should be proud to live their own truth.' The couple's enduring closeness was well in evidence last year, when the Schofields allowed Channel 5 cameras into their Oxfordshire home for his warts-and-all docuseries, Phillip Schofield: Cast Away. Schofield, facing an uncertain professional future after leaving This Morning under a ruinously black cloud, was tasked with the unenviable challenge of living alone on a remote tropical island for ten days, where he would 'face the challenges of life in isolation.' But not before bidding farewell to his loved ones over a boozy lunch, during which viewers were given a unique insight into his relationship with Stephanie and their daughters. Molly, who now works as her father's publicist, insisted that he and his wife Stephanie are 'still best friend' (Stephanie is pictured on Phillip Schofield: Cast Away) 'We've seen him in his lowest times, but I've been so proud of him, and as a daughter to see the love that people had for him that when it's taken away it's just heartbreaking,' said Molly, who now works as her father's publicist, in a scene from the show. 'Weirdly everything that's happened recently has made us closer. When my dad came out, it was, it was very hard for me. 'It was very hard for the entire family. Mainly my mum, of course, everything was turned upside down. But we talked through it and over time it's got easier.' She added: 'My mum, my sister, we're all the same we will always continued to support him no matter what. And I never thought it would have gone the way it has but to have my parents still best friends. I'm the luckiest person ever.' In the first episode, Schofield told how he had 'everything in place' for a suicide attempt, but decided against it when his eldest daughter Molly persuaded him not to. He said: 'In the last eighteen months, it got as dark as it is possible to get. A year ago I got so, so close. I had everything in place, everything was set up and everything was ready and it was Molly that was looking after me.' Schofield was tasked with the unenviable challenge of living alone on a remote tropical island for ten days, where he would 'face the challenges of life in isolation' Schofield with his wife Stephanie on his62nd birthday weekend. The couple still wear their wedding rings He explained: 'Molly and Ruby both looking after me at the time, and Molly said: 'Do you imagine what this would do to us if you actually managed to pull this off? 'Can you imagine what would happen and can you imagine what it would do to me if you did this on my watch?' 'That was just enough, just enough to take a step back from the edge. I could have been hospitalised, I just raced to the family home and shut the gates and I was in there.' He later paid tribute to his wife, Molly and his youngest daughter Ruby, adding: 'Without them, I wouldn't be here.' Schofield's return to television on Cast Away cames 16 months after he was forced to apologise to the Mail for lying about his affair with his former This Morning colleague. But during the programme, he addressed the relationship, saying: 'It's like the biggest grenade going off in your life. You know you let people down, you know you've let yourself down. 'It was an unwise and unprofessional thing to do. I will be forever sorry. I screwed up. I made a mistake, and I hurt the people around me.' Indeed, but what now for the Schofields? If history has told us anything, it tells us that love, however flawed, can weather any storm. Only time will tell if it lasts. Australian actress Teresa Palmer is all set to break ties with her old life in Hollywood. The 39-year-old beauty and mother of five announced on Wednesday that she and husband Mark Webber have listed their seven-bedroom Los Angeles pad. No details of the sale have been made public, including the price tag for the luxurious spread which is located in the sought-after Lake Hollywood neighbourhood. But according to real estate dealers, houses in the upscale Hollywood Canyon area can fetch up to $7.6 million AUD ($5 million US). Taking to Instagram, Teresa included a lengthy story in the post about her attachment to the home. 'We dreamed this place into life, our vision-board home, the one we once spoke about like a "one day" fantasy. Australian actress Teresa Palmer (pictured) is all set to break ties with her old life in Hollywood The 39-year-old announced on Wednesday that she and husband Mark Webber have listed their seven-bedroom Los Angeles pad. Pictured: The chic dining space 'It's been the stage for endless Mafia game nights, teenage sleepovers in the cinema, bringing home babies, epic birthday parties, and deep family connection.' She continued: '[It's the kind of home] whose doors never really close, always ready to welcome whoever wanders in.' The chicly designed house was featured in a photo spread in the fashionable InStyle magazine in December 2024, which revealed that Teresa had collaborated with designer Amber Lestrange to give the pad its unique and cosy style. '[We curated a space] that feels warm yet refined, with a Scandinavian-inspired calm. Every corner has been thoughtfully styled to feel welcoming but elevated, a home that's both lived-in and beautiful,' Teresa said in her post. She also added that the property's stylish furniture could be included in the sale. The Hacksaw Ridge star also said that she and Mark are planning to settle in Byron Bay, a favourite of A-listers including Chris Hemsworth. Features on the property, which is nestled in bushland underneath the famed Hollywood sign, include a pool, a home cinema, and chef's kitchen. There's also a fire pit, music room, guest house, with each of the seven bedrooms boasting an en suite. According to real estate dealers, houses in the upscale Hollywood Canyon area can fetch up to $7.6 million AUD ($5 million US) The house was featured in a photo spread in the fashionable InStyle magazine in December 2024 which revealed that Teresa had collaborated with designer Amber Lestrange to give the pad its unique and cosy style The property's stylish furniture could be included in the sale It comes after Teresa recently reflected on the moment she nearly quit acting after she was 'pressured' to hook up with her male co-star. The stunner, who made a name for herself in hit films such as The Choice, revealed she was fired from a movie after experiencing her own MeToo moment. Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, Teresa shed light on the darker side of Hollywood that saw her meet some really 'nefarious' people in the industry, people that pushed her to 'hook up' with actors on film projects to better their on-screen 'chemistry'. 'I had my own MeToo experience. I was taken advantage of,' she told the publication. The moment made her question her dream of being an actress and almost saw her turn her back on it for good. Soon after, Teresa returned to Adelaide, convincing herself that her dream was over and that it was time to settle into a job as a drama teacher. However, her agent Ann Churchill-Brown - who also represents Hollywood heavyweight Nicole Kidman - wouldn't let her give up. Teresa went on to star in many career-defining film roles, proving her agent right. She shares four biological kids with her husband Mark Webber, as well as a stepchild. Jason Momoa is opening up about a near-death incident that still haunts him to this day. The 46-year-old Aquaman star revealed on the latest episode of the Smartless podcast that he nearly drowned while on a surf outing off the coast of Maui, Hawaii, in 2007. 'I was doing this paddle, we went in at Jaws,' Momoa said, referring to the surf break located on the northern shore of Maui, which draws the world's top surfers to its enormous and potentially deadly waves. Momoa who is currently dating the Andor actress Adria Arjona explained to hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes that his group of paddle boarders were taking a 13-mile route along the island's coast when his situation took a dire turn. 'You're kind of almost a mile offshore, and then my leash snapped. We're about seven miles into it and my leash snapped, and it's so windy on Maui,' he said. Momoa, who was at the time starring on Stargate: Atlantis, said he was 'trained pretty well' at the time, so he initially felt 'fine,' but things took a turn for the worse as waves began to batter him. Jason Momoa, 46, recounted on the latest episode of the Smartless podcast how he nearly drowned during a 2007 surfing trip off the coast of Maui, Hawaii; seen August 1 in Oahu, Hawaii 'I took quite a few on the head. They're pretty big, like 10-foot Hawaiian waves,' he shared. 'But I'm probably half a mile at that point offshore.' But as he began to tire from staying afloat in the chaotic sea, Momoa got to a point where he was 'stuck in this crazy spot,' which he thought may have been the outer ridge of a coral reef, which kept him out of sight of his friends. 'I was really on the outer reef and they couldn't see me,' he said. 'I had my paddle and I was waving it and they couldn't see me, and the waves were so big.' The actor who was still two years away from his breakout turn on Game Of Thrones began to panic as he thought about his three-month-old daughter Lola. Momoa shared his daughter, now 18, with his ex-wife Lisa Bonet, and the former couple later welcome their son Nakoa-Wolf, 16. 'I just lost it. I was like, "Oh s***,"' Moma admitted. Momoa said he began to just drift in the water as he feared that he had been left behind by the rest of his group. 'I was out there for a while, and I just couldn't see anyone coming to get me. I couldn't move anymore, and my arms and my legs gave up,' he recalled. 'My body stopped. Like I couldn't move my arms anymore, and I bubbled down. Then my toe hit the outer reef. Momoa said he was six miles into a 13-mile paddle board route with friends when his 'leash snapped.' He friends couldn't see that he was left behind because of the massive waves buffeting them; seen in 2018 in London Momoa said he 'lost it' and his 'legs gave up' after he couldn't see his friends anymore. He started to bob under the water, and he cut his foot on a reef hidden below the surface, which prevented him from swimming the half-mile distance back to shore; seen in 2018 in LA In his panic, he thought of his three-month-old daughter Lola. But then a friend discovered him in the nick of time, and they managed to swim the remaining seven miles to the end of their journey; pictured with daughter Lola (R) and son Nakoa-Wolf on August 1 in Hawaii 'I literally gave up, and I'm screaming inside,' Momoa said of his moment of despair. But he got the motivation to go on at the last possible moment when one of his friends spotted him and swam out toward him for support. 'I get back on the board and we start paddling,' he recalled, adding that it wasn't possible to just swim the shorter distance back to shore. 'He's like, "You got to go out," so we just keep paddling out.' Momoa and his friend still had seven more miles to go on the journey, even as the 'brutal' waves battered them the whole way. By that point, the Dune actor was bleeding profusely from cutting himself on the reef lurking just below the surface. 'My feet are covered in blood,' he recounted. 'And I'm just literally [with] my ancestors just paddling the rest of this way, head down and we get out.' Momoa's near-death experience was followed by an incredible career resurgence that he's still in the midst of today. He become one of the biggest stars on the planet after scoring a major role on Game Of Thrones as Khal Drogo, and he followed that part up with his role as Aquaman in multiple DC Comics films. After surviving the journey, Momoa went on to have a career revival started by his iconic role on Game Of Thrones. He followed it up by playing Aquaman in multiple films, as well as starring in the Dune and Fast And Furious series; still from Aquaman (2018) He can currently be seen on the nine-episode miniseries Chief Of War (pictured), which began airing on Apple TV+ on August 1 The actor who is also an executive producer on the show stars as the real-life warrior chief Kaiana, who in the late 18th century rebelled against Kamehameha I's attempts to conquer and unify the major Hawaiian islands Momoa also tried his hand at playing in the Fast And Furious sequel Fast X and was part of the ensemble cast of the hit video game adaptation A Minecraft Movie earlier this year. He also earned rave reviews as Duncan Idaho in 2021's Dune: Part One. After skipping the second film in the Timothee Chalametstarring series, he's set to return to the for the sequel Dune: Messiah, which is now filming. Momoa can currently be seen on the nine-episode miniseries Chief Of War, which began airing on Apple TV+ on August 1. The actor who is also an executive producer on the show stars as the real-life warrior chief Kaiana, who in the late 18th century rebelled against Kamehameha I's attempts to conquer and unify the major Hawaiian islands. Abbie Chatfield has clashed with a woman in Bondi after she illegally parked her car and blocked the star's driveway. The podcast host went on a wild TikTok rant about the incident this week. Abbie said she was taking her dog Walter out for a walk when she noticed a British woman had parked her Mazda 'halfway over the driveway' and blocked the apartment complex's entryway. As she had heard in the past that 'people from England drive recklessly', she tried to help the woman, advising that it was illegal to park in the space. 'Shes not from here, I thought she was confused,' she explained. However, the advice went down like a lead balloon, with Abbie claiming that the 'pom' began yelling at her and refusing to move. Abbie Chatfield (pictured) has popped off on social media after clashing with a woman who broke a well-known driving law in Australia Karma was seemingly in Abbie's favour as she later posted a follow-up video showing a parking ticket for $330 on the windshield of the Mazda 'She was yelling, "I didnt ask you." I told her I didnt want to fight.' Despite further explaining to the woman that it was already a 'nightmare' to get out of the narrow driveway, she was met with laughter and sass from the driver. Abbie then addressed the reaction with her fans, saying: 'Why are you laughing that youre committing a crime? Why are you laughing that youre being incredibly disrespectful, blocking someones driveway, and yelling at a stranger?' However, karma was seemingly in Abbie's favour as she later posted a follow-up video showing a parking ticket for $330 on the windshield of the Mazda. 'Well, well, well. I tried to warn her,' the Love Island alum joked. Fans flooded the second TikTok clip with praise for Abbie's actions, while gushing over the satisfaction of seeing her get the last laugh. 'I would sit on the deck with a coffee and wait for the show to start,' one person wrote. Another added: 'I feel literally so content right now' The media personality posted a video to TikTok on Sunday ranting about the incident, which saw her get in a heated argument with a British foreigner who had illegally parked in her Bondi driveway 'Im so petty I would have written you should have listened,"' one fan hilariously shared. 'Oooft $330 is a big one too shes gonna regret that haha,' another penned. One fan chimed in: 'Could not love this more.' 'I love when things just fall into place perfectly,' another wrote. It is illegal in Australia to obstruct access to a driveway with your vehicle. Fines can range between $100 and $590 depending on local council rules. Home and Away star Mat Stevenson has revealed he was raped by two men when he was 18 years old. The 56-year-old, who played Adam Cameron on the soap from 1989 to 1994, spoke out about the horrifying ordeal in an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald. He explained he had attended a business presentation about becoming a real estate agent when the assault occurred. After the event, he was offered a drink by his prospective mentor but immediately 'became dizzy'. 'This other bloke [then] came out of nowhere. I was paralysed, I was a strong young kid, I was a good sportsman, but I was paralysed,' Mat said. The men raped the actor who 'blacked out'. Home and Away star Mat Stevenson (pictured) has revealed he was raped by two men when he was 18 years old The 56-year-old, who played Adam Cameron on the soap from 1989 to 1994, spoke out about the horrifying ordeal in a candid interview The following day Mat revealed he woke up and found himself in the same room but there was no one around. 'I was in a fair bit of pain, and I was late for work. I told my dad, I said, "I think I've just been raped", and he ignored it,' he revealed. Mat received a call the day after the tragic ordeal informing him he had landed a role on Neighbours. He eventually became a household name when he starred on Channel Seven soap Home and Away in the nineties, playing the role of Adam Cameron. But he shocked fans when he left the long-running soap after five years and 500 episodes. In 2019, Mat revealed the real reason he left acting was for love. 'After I left Home and Away, I travelled for three years and when I came back I was 27. I met a woman that I loved and we wanted a family,' he told The Daily Telegraph. 'And with that comes responsibility so I sought out some secure work and that's the government role I have been working in ever since.' Mat became a household name when he starred on Channel Seven soap Home and Away in the '90s, playing the role of Adam Cameron. Pictured with co-star Dannii Minogue Mat has been investigating identity theft for the government since 2001. He and his wife share two daughters, aged 24 and 21. During his TV career, the Victorian-born actor also had roles on Blue Heelers, MDA, City Homicide and Offspring. He still dabbles in acting, with Mat playing the character of Mike in the 2021 drama film, A Small Punch In a Little Town. The film, directed by former Blue Heelers producer Luke Robson, is about a young man who throws a coward punch at an outsider visiting a small community. For confidential support call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14 Bindi Irwin has given followers a painfulbut hopefulhealth update, just months after she was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery. The Wildlife Warrior, 27, shared a heartbreaking post to Instagram on Thursday, and revealed she had two surgeries to treat her ruptured appendix and endometriosis. She said she was 'finally' healing after '13 years of fighting for answers', which culminated in the removal of 51 lesions, a chocolate cyst and her appendix. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing painful cysts to grow. A chocolate cyst is a type of ovarian cyst which is caused by endometriosis. It is filled with dark, thick, old blood-like fluid which resembles melted chocolate. '13 years of fighting for answers. 51 endometriosis lesions, a chocolate cyst, and my appendix were all removed across two surgeries with @seckinmd,' Bindi wrote. Bindi Irwin, 27, has given followers a painfulbut hopefulhealth update, just months after she was rushed into hospital for emergency surgery 'My hernia from giving birth that was unzippingwas taken care of. I can FINALLY say that Im feeling better. Genuinely healing. 'I can function in everyday life without wanting to throw up or pass out from the pain. Slowly, slowly gaining my strength back.' Bindi went on to say she has been feeling a 'gravity' of emotions as she starts to 'recognise' who she is once more. 'I felt utterly ashamed as a teenager and young adult being told that my pain was just part of being a woman. I felt lesser. I felt hurt. I felt weak. That is not OK,' she said. 'Young girls and women shouldnt feel alone with pain in the drivers seat of their lives. We need to take away the stigma of talking about womens health. 'Its time to have open discussions and make change on a global scale.' Bindi shared a radiant selfie alongside the determined and hopeful message. She smiled as she stood against the backdrop of a sun shining down on her, and tagged New York City-based Dr Amanda Chu and her Seckin Endometriosis Center. The Wildlife Warrior shared a heartbreaking post to Instagram on Thursday, and revealed she had two surgeries to treat her ruptured appendix and endometriosis Bindi also tagged the Endometriosis Foundation of America, a charity organisation founded by the Seckin Endometriosis Center. It comes after Bindi was rushed to hospital in May, just hours after touching down in Las Vegas for a gala honouring her late father Steve Irwin. She suffered a ruptured appendix and was raced into surgery, missing the prestigious event she was due to attend alongside brother Robert Irwin and mother Terri Irwin. Robert told People magazine at the time Bindi was recovering and her mother was at her bedside. 'She's going to be okay, but surgeryout of all the things we were ready for, that was not one of them,' Robert explained. Terri also missed the event while accompanying her daughter to hospital and staying by her side through surgery. Robert explained Bindi had been suffering some pain in the lead-up to the gala but had tried to soldier on. 'She came to Las Vegas and was ready to put on a brave face. She said, "I'm just going to tough it out." She said she was 'finally' healing after '13 years of fighting for answers', which culminated in the removal of 51 lesions, a chocolate cyst and her appendix 'But the surgeon told her, "Your appendix is going. It's got to come out,"' he recalled. In a later Instagram post, Bindi revealed the shock health emergency ended up being a blessing in disguise. While her appendix was removed, doctors discovered another 14 lesions from her endometriosis. These were successfully removed as well. She also had a large hernia repaired, which had developed after giving birth to her daughter Grace in 2021. The Bachelor star Laura Byrne has leaped to the defence of her husband Matty 'J' Johnson after he copped backlash for refusing to get a vasectomy. The couple have two daughters, Marlie-Mae and Lola Ellis, and are expecting their third. The pregnant reality TV star, 39, defended Matty J, 38, on social media after he was called a 'loser' and a 'pussy' after she revealed on her Life Uncut podcast she asked him to get the snip and he said 'no'. 'A lot of assumptions are being made. Matt plays his part in contraception, happy to wear a condom. I am the one who would prefer he doesn't wear one. I don't want another baby nor do I want to go on contraception,' Laura said. 'If a man is happy to take responsibility for his part in contraception by wearing a condom, let's not jump to calling him a pussy, a loser because he shares reservations around getting the snip,' she said. After Laura's defence of Matt was shared to social media, listeners quickly criticised him for not undergoing the procedure - which saw her once again stick up for him. The Bachelor star Laura Byrne has leaped to the defence of her husband Matty 'J' Johnson after he copped backlash for refusing to get a vasectomy 'I think Matt's just given me the ick... sorry Laura. It is the LEAST the man can do,' one person wrote. Laura responded and said people shouldn't be so quick to judge. 'This is a pretty harsh comment. The LEAST a man can do is wear a condom, which Matt is happy to do. He plays his part in contraception, but I'd prefer him to get the snip because I don't like condoms,' she wrote. 'I don't have to convince him, it's an open conversation in our household. In the same way Matt has never forced me into any contraception nor did he force me into having children. 'Jumping straight to shaming someone who isn't on board from the second a vasectomy is suggested. Please don't impose the opinions you hold in your relationship on mine.' In April, Laura revealed she was pregnant with her third child with Matty - and that it would be their last. She announced the exciting news on her podcast. 'It turns out, we're having baby number three!' she declared. The pregnant reality TV star defended Matty J on social media after he was called a 'loser' and a 'pussy' after she revealed on her Life Uncut podcast she asked him to get the snip and he said 'no' Laura said Matty was already helping out in preventing an unwanted pregnancy - but wished he would do more Laura then revealed her due date: 'It is a Christmas miracle. 'I found out very early on in this pregnancy, not because I had any symptoms but because my friend made a comment that made me do a pregnancy test,' she explained. Laura explained she took a pregnancy test while Matty was filming I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in South Africa but did not tell him the news until she was two and a half months pregnant. 'I wasn't able to tell Matt for ages. The whole time he was in the jungle, I wasn't able to tell him,' she explained. Matty also made an announcement on his Two Doting Dads podcast, telling listeners: 'We were trying before I went into the jungle. The plan was, we said 2025, if we were going to have a third, this will be the year it happens.' After getting engaged in Fiji in April 2018, Laura and Matty finally tied the knot on the south coast in November 2022, five years after meeting on The Bachelor. They are one of the most successful couples to come out of the show and welcomed their daughter Marlie-Mae in 2019, followed by Lola in February 2021. Kate Gosselin has given the real reason why she is working 12-hour shifts following her reality TV stint. The 50-year-old TV personality - who gained recognition for appearing in the TLC series Jon & Kate Plus 8 - got candid with fans about her financial situation after uploading a TikTok video on Monday. Kate was previously married to Jon Gosselin from 1999 until their divorce in 2009. They share eight children: twins Cara and Madelyn, 24, and sextuplets Collin, Hannah, Joel, Aaden, Alexis and Leah, all 21. The star's time on TLC came to an end when Kate Plus 8 aired its final episode in 2011. In the clip, Kate could be seen doing dishes after working a long shift as a nurse in the pediatric field which earns about $30 an hour in most states. She later jumped to the comment section to respond to questions from fans. When one said they thought she would be 'set for life' after the TLC show, Kate replied, 'I wish. I spent sooooooo much money on attorneys. That killed us! :( so sad!' Kate Gosselin, 50, has given the real reason why she is working 12-hour shifts following her reality TV stint; seen in 2019 in NYC The TV personality - who gained recognition for appearing in the TLC series Jon & Kate Plus 8 - got candid with fans about her financial situation after uploading a TikTok video on Monday The media personality appeared to be referencing to her divorce from Jon which was finalized in December 2009. Her request for primary custody of their eight children was granted and she also gained ownership of their family home. But Jon later got sole custody of Collin and his sister Hannah back in 2018. Another follower asked Kate 'what happened with all the income from the show' while referencing to the star's long shifts. 'Honestly? Providing for 8 kids, college funds which I am proud to say covered all of their college and more and LAWYERS,' she explained. 'Sickening but I was drug into court constantly and that costs A TON. Sad bc my kids could have a lot more saved and I could have a retirement saved if it weren't for the lawyers :(.' However, Kate told the fan that it was 'okay' while adding that she is 'helping other families and I feel needed and I enjoy helping!' The TV personality also gave insight into her job as a nurse and stated that she works in 'pediatric home health care.' When one said they thought she would be 'set for life' after the TLC show, Kate replied, 'I wish. I spent sooooooo much money on attorneys. That killed us! :( so sad!' The media personality appeared to be referencing to her divorce from Jon which was finalized in December 2009; the former couple seen above on Jon & Kate Plus 8 'Honestly? Providing for 8 kids, college funds which I am proud to say covered all of their college and more and LAWYERS,' she explained The TV personality also gave insight into her job as a nurse and stated that she works in 'pediatric home health care' When one asked, 'How long have you been a nurse for?' Kate replied with, '28 years. Wow. That made me feel super old to type that number.' She also revealed that some of her children will live with her at home in between semesters at college. In regards to what the mom-of-eight misses about her time on reality TV, Kate expressed, 'I miss our house in Pa. 'But mainly I miss when the kids were little. Not the stress, just their cuteness. At the time it felt like the days were long... but in hindsight it sped by. And I'm sad :(.' Late last year in October, a source claimed that Kate was 'hurting for money' and 'still trying to get a new show.' Kate officially launched her TikTok account last month in July and has since amassed around 184K followers. Her son Collin also recently joined the social media platform and made a heartbreaking claim last week as he reached out to his estranged siblings through an emotional message. The college student alleged in a post that he and his siblings were 'forced apart' and 'pitted against each other.' Late last year in October, a source claimed that Kate was 'hurting for money' and 'still trying to get a new show'; seen in 2019 in Pasadena The college student alleged in a post that he and his siblings were 'forced apart' and 'pitted against each other; Collin seen above Collin included a throwback photo of himself with his brothers and sisters while adding the text, 'Born to be a team, us against the world...' A second slide showed the Jon & Kate Plus 8 alum in the driver's seat of a car and he wrote, 'Forced to do it alone, and wonder everyday what our lives could've looked like.' In the caption of the post, Collin also claimed, 'Forced apart, pitted against each other. All the fame and money in the world, but what about kids being kids? 'I will always love them more than anything. The tears I shed behind closed doors, thinking about the memories we could've shared. I love you guys...' Daily Mail has reached out to both Kate and Jon's reps for comment. Collin has notably been estranged from his mother Kate as well as most of his siblings for many years. However, he is close to his father Jon - who got sole custody of Collin and his sister Hannah back in 2018. One TikTok user questioned if Collin still has a close relationship with his sister Hannah, to which he replied, 'Yes I just her today! 'She was worried her car wouldn't pass inspection so I was looking at it for her. She's so funny and I love her sm. It makes my day whenever I see her, but we're both so busy with work, school etc.' Collin included a throwback photo of himself with his brothers and sisters while adding the text, 'Born to be a team, us against the world...' A second slide showed the Jon & Kate Plus 8 alum in the driver's seat of a car and he wrote, 'Forced to do it alone, and wonder everyday what our lives could've looked like' One TikTok user questioned if Collin still has a close relationship with his sister Hannah, to which he replied, 'Yes I just her today!' Another typed, 'if you choose to have kids one day and be involved, you'll understand your mother more.' Collin responded to the fan by claiming that he suffered both 'physical and emotional abuse' by his mother 'while having to be an animal in her circus on tv.' He added, 'Being locked up, isolated, zip tied. Being sent away because I didn't fit into an equation. 'Having one visit from her after being completely cut off with no contact at 12 years old, in which the whole visit was her telling me how I deserved the situation I was in because I "destroyed our family." Yeah I'm sorry, but I will never "understand" that. I will break the cycle that she couldn't.' Last year in September, Collin claimed that his mother Kate 'zip-tied his arms and legs and locked him in basement as a child' during an interview with The U.S. Sun. Collin responded to the fan by claiming that he suffered both 'physical and emotional abuse' by his mother 'while having to be an animal in her circus on tv' And back in 2023 on Vice TV's Dark Side of the 2000s, he talked about being sent away at the age of 12 to an institution, and alleged that his mother, Kate, did so to prevent him from discussing how he was being treated at home. He also claimed last year that he was 'discharged' from the Marines due to Kate sending him to the behavioral institution in 2016. On TikTok, Collin also confirmed that he is in the process of writing a book, which he called 'an exciting opportunity.' Earlier this year in March, Collin announced his new career venture and revealed he established a power-washing company in Pennsylvania, which he has 'officially filed as an LLC.' The new career path came less than a year after he announced his discharge from the Marines, for which he blamed on his estranged mother Kate for sending him to a behavioral institution in 2016 when he was just 12. Hailey Bieber took comfort in a girls' night out as she continues to be beset by rumors of marital strife with her superstar husband Justin Bieber. He appeared to address their relationship problems on his new album, but the couple have retained a united front in public as he promotes the new project. Now - following on from a cryptic post from Justin - Hailey has been seen indulging in an evening on the town in Los Angeles with some of her most high-profile friends. The 28-year-old niece of Alec Baldwin was seen entering the upscale West Hollywood eatery Alba with gal pals including Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid. Poured into a monochrome polka-dot dress that flatteringly fitted her enviably lithe frame, Hailey beamed as she held hands with Kylie while arriving at the restaurant. Justin's wedding ring could be seen glittering on her left hand, amid a collection of accessories that included a sleek pair of dark shades worn at night. Hailey Bieber took comfort in a girls' night out as she continues to be beset by rumors of marital strife with her superstar husband Justin Bieber The 28-year-old niece of Alec Baldwin was seen entering the upscale West Hollywood eatery Alba with gal pals including Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid Bella meanwhile slid her supermodel figure into a skintight black cocktail dress with a square neck and a hem cut off slightly below the knee. With her new blonde locks swept tightly back into an updo, she brought the look together with a cuff bracelet worn halfway up one forearm. The little sister of Gigi Hadid was the image of good cheer that night, grinning broadly as she sauntered into the restaurant on a towering pair of black stilettos. Kylie on the other hand was every inch the busty bombshell as she hit the scene in a peekaboo black dress that bared her ample cleavage and taut midriff. Sharpening her unmistakable features with makeup, the lip kit mogul let her raven hair cascade over her shoulders in luxurious waves. Kylie, who is being trailed by rumors of a split from her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet, offered her fans a few glimpses into her night out on Insta Stories. She uploaded a snap taken earlier in the day of a group of her intimates - including Kendall, Hailey, Bella and Alex Consani - having cocktails at an outdoor table. Another photo showed the martinis she enjoyed with Alex and Hailey in a dimly lit setting that was presumably Alba that evening. Justin's wedding ring could be seen glittering on her left hand, amid a collection of accessories that included a sleek pair of dark shades worn at night Bella meanwhile slid her supermodel figure into a skintight black cocktail dress with a square neck and a hem cut off slightly below the knee The little sister of Gigi Hadid was the image of good cheer that night, grinning broadly as she sauntered into the restaurant on a towering pair of black stilettos Her new hair color caused her to bear an even more striking resemblance to Gigi than before The outing comes after Justin shared a cryptic post about how thankful he was for having been pardoned by God despite not having earned it. He wrote he was ''grateful for a new day. grateful for Jesus. he meets me every morning with forgiveness and love that I truly don't deserve.' Justin added he was 'so grateful that he gives this love so freely, so graciously. Wouldn't be able to get thru the day without his love. It meets me at my lowest.' Earlier this week, he shared a suite of loved-up snaps of him and Hailey together, cuddling up to one another and lounging side by side on picnic blankets. Justin released his surprise seventh studio album, SWAG, to critical acclaim on July 11. Several songs make mention of his public persona, personal struggles, and his commitment to his wife Hailey and their nearly one-year-old baby son Jack Blues. There is also a theme of interludes featuring comedian Druski, during which Justin engages in candid 'therapy sessions' with the social media star. The album also appears to allude to a challenging time between the couple, who have been married since 2018. Kylie uploaded a snap taken earlier in the day of a group of her intimates - including Kendall, Hailey, Bella and Alex Consani - having cocktails at an outdoor table Earlier this week, he shared a suite of loved-up snaps of him and Hailey together, cuddling up to one another and lounging side by side on picnic blankets After months of rumors about the state of the A-list couple's marriage amid concern for Justin's well-being he has vowed to 'change' for his wife following a rocky period. In the album's second track, Daisies, Justin appears to be singing about him and Hailey being at loggerheads and failing to communicate clearly. The lyrics read: 'Throwin' petals like, "Do you love me or not?" / Head is spinnin', and it don't know when to stop / You said "Forever," babe, did you mean it or not? / Hold on, hold on. 'You leave me on read, babe, but I still get the message / Instead of a line it's three dots, but I can connect them / And if it ain't right, babe, you know I respect it / But if you need time, just take your time / Honey, I get it, I get it, I get it.' In track 10 of the 21-song track list, titled Walking Away, Justin sings about the couple 'taking a break' and 'testing patience.' 'Days go by so fast, don't wanna spend them with you / So tell me why you're throwing stones at my back / You know I'm defenseless,' he sings in the first verse. 'Girl, we better stop before we say some s*** / We've been testing our patience / I think we better off if we just take a break,' he continues. But the chorus and subsequent verses paint a picture of their enduring love despite strife. Kylie is also being trailed by breakup rumors with Timothee Chalamet, whom she is pictured with in May watching his beloved New York Knicks play in Indianapolis 'Baby, I ain't walking away / You were my diamond / Gave you a ring / I made you a promise / I told you, I'd change / It's just human nature / These growing pains / And baby, I ain't walking away,' he sings in the chorus. Ahead of the album's release, Hailey had some choice words for their fans as she took to social media to promote it. She took aim at the 'losers' who've speculated about their relationship as she re-posted a photo of Justin's massive Swag billboard in NYC's Times Square, captioned: 'Is it finally clocking to you f***ing losers?' She appeared to suggest that Justin's recent bizarre behavior wasn't the result of any marriage troubles but due to him being hard at work on his long-awaited music, which he partially recorded in Iceland back in April. Justin and Hailey will celebrate their only child, son Jack's, first birthday on August 22. They have maintained the tot's privacy by opting not to share his face with the world, strategically only sharing photos that give fans small glimpses of him. The heir made his music video debut days ago as he appeared in the visualizer for his dad's hit song Yukon. In her Vogue cover story in May, she shared about their little one: 'We dont take him to a lot of places. 'We dont want anyone to. I mean, youve just got to see how invasive it all is. It feels mean to put a baby into that.' A noughties American rock band have issued an apology to fans after being forced to cancel their UK tour just a day before it starts. One-hit wonders Iglu & Hartly, whose track In This City reached number 5 in the UK singles chart in 2008, were due to play eight dates across the country, with the first gig kicking off in Southend-On-Sea on August 14. However, frontman Jarvis Anderson took to Instagram to reveal in a video that they've had to scrap the dates for 'sensitive personal reasons'. He then shared a statement to his stories which read: 'I am devastated to have to say this, but I have to cancel our UK tour - for sensitive personal reasons received late last night, which are completely beyond our control. 'We are absolutely heartbroken that we are unable to put on these incredible shows for you all at this time, but please be assured as soon as things are settled we will be immediately looking at ways we can work towards revisiting in the UK in the near future.' Jarvis' video on his grid concluded with the message: 'Love you all, thank you so much for understanding.' Noughties American rock band Iglu & Hartley have issued an apology to fans after being forced to cancel their UK tour just a day before it starts [frontman Jarvis Anderson pictured] The one-hit wonders, whose track In This City reached number 5 in the UK singles chart in 2008, were due to play eight dates across the country, with the first gig kicking off in Southend-On-Sea on August 14 [pictured in 2008] The post was met with plenty of comments from their fans sharing their upset that the tour had been cancelled, while also expressing their understanding. They penned: 'Heartbreaking news take all the time you need when youre ready to come back to the uk and tours all back on the fans will be waiting much love m8.' 'Gutted, but the party will just be postponed, take care and I really hope youre okay!! All the love in the world to you.' 'Totally understand..take care of yourself and we will see you soon xxx.' 'Hope youre okay! Personal life comes first.your UK fans will be waiting for you when youre good and ready ' Following their first date at Chinnerys in Southend, the group were set to play London's The Camden Club on August 15. They were then set to head to venues in Bristol, Birmingham, Cambridge and Liverpool. The short tour then would have took them to Glasgow's Stero before concluding with a gig at The Cluny in Newcastle on August 24. Frontman Jarvis Anderson took to Instagram to reveal in a video that they've had to scrap the dates for 'sensitive personal reasons'. He then shared a statement to his stories which read: 'I am devastated to have to say this, but I have to cancel our UK tour - for sensitive personal reasons received late last night' The post was met with plenty of comments from their fans sharing their upset that the tour had been cancelled, while also expressing their understanding The LA-based band formed in 2006. They went on to find big success with their track In This City, breaking into the UK top 10 and was even performed on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross Ticketholders have been advised to keep hold of their tickets until the tour has been rescheduled. The LA-based band formed in 2006 as a trio, consisting of Jarvis Anderson, Sam Martin and Simon Katz. They went on to find big success with their track In This City, breaking into the UK top 10 and was even performed on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross. However, the track proved to be the only successful track on the album & Then Boom, marking them as one-hit wonders. The current line-up consists of Jarvis, Luis Rosiles, and Michael Bucher. Luisa Zissman has launched a scathing attack on critics of her latest bikini snap. The Apprentice star, 38, took to Instagram on Wednesday to share a selfie showing her posing in a two-piece while on holiday, leading to comments regarding her weight, with one user branding the star 'unhealthy and very malnourished'. Following a barrage of criticism, the mother-of-three hit back at the 'skinny shamers', as she raged about the fact that the NHS is being drained by obesity and insisted she is 'strong and healthy' despite accusations from followers. In her attack, she penned: 'Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties' and insisted her body is the result of 'energetic, health and mostly clean living'. In a further display of defiance, Luisa wrote: 'If you got off your as*es and stopped shoving sh*t in your mouths you wouldn't be as fat and fat wouldn't be normal. Just because the majority of people are overweight does NOT mean it's healthy.' Luisa Zissman has launched a scathing attack on critics of her latest bikini snap The Apprentice star, 38, took to Instagram on Wednesday to hit back at her critics with the rant, in which she spoke about the strain on the NHS In her attack, she penned: 'Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties' and insisted her body is the result of 'energetic, health and mostly clean living' She also lashed out at accusations of Photoshop - insisting her image was all natural Luisa left little to the imagination in the shot, where she posed in a monochrome bikini with underwired cups and thick black straps. The star, who shot to fame on The Apprentice in 2013, cocked one leg in the image to make the most of her lithe limbs while also showing her taut stomach. She then added the simple caption: 'Endless summer of fun', before being met with the shocking comments from a slew of enraged and concerned followers. A number of Instagram users penned: 'I mean this genuinely, and I'm no Greek god but you genuinely look unhealthy and very malnourished... 'Appreciate you feel good and happy but younger girls watching and aspiring may follow suit and this isn't good for anyone 'No hate at all as you're a diamond but this culture of ultra slim is a concern... Babe always thought you were fit, but a little tooooooo slim my love xxx... Could do with a good meal. May I suggest a Greggs steak bake followed by a Vanilla slice... 'See you just right... Mean this in the nicest way possible, but losing too much weight can age your face and you don't want that... You need a good feed girl... Jests Christ you look ill!!!' Jumping to her defence, This Morning and body confidence advocate Ashley James wrote: 'Looking at the comments - normalise not discussing people's weight'. Luisa spoke proudly of her fitness prowess in the comments, something she frequently showcases on Instagram A host of commenters shared vile comments criticising her looks Luisa shot to fame on The Apprentice in 2013 In the face of a number of comments, Luisa penned: 'This is MY Instagram page. what a stupid remark I'm on holiday and have posted a selfie like millions of other ppl do. Just cause I'm fit, slim and healthy everyone has an issue... 'And the issue is they cannot be arsed to have the dedication and discipline to a healthy lifestyle and exercise like I do... 'This isn't photoshopped at all thank you very much it has a Los Angeles filter on it from stories and that's it which changes the colour slightly nothing else... 'Imagine me going around calling out every overweight person I saw, might start doing that give ppl taste of their own medicine.' One Instagram user queried: 'Difference is you are flaunting it . You know your skinny you know you don't have love handles and you know you will cause people to comment on your body! Bravo for the clout'. Jumping to her defence, This Morning and body confidence advocate Ashley James wrote: 'Looking at the comments - normalise not discussing people's weight' She later posted pictures from her lunch during a holiday Luisa was quick to hit back: 'Do you say that when other 'bigger' people post holiday pics? Just because I'm fit and healthy you don't think I should post? ... She later took to her story to write: 'The comments on this holiday bikini pic. Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties. My body is a result of my lifestyle which is energetic, health and mostly clean living.... 'If you got off your as*es and stopped shoving sh*t in your mouths you wouldn't be as fat and fat wouldn't be normal... 'Just because the majority of people are overweight does NOT mean it's healthy. Shocking that when people see a healthy body with a healthy BMI in a healthy weight range they think it's not normal. She was infuriated by the comments from some of her 700k followers And no, I'm not sorry for my comments it's TRUE. I'm stronger than most of you mo*fos, I can do endless press ups, pulls ups, I lift weights... 'I can do sit ups until the cows come home and all you can do is comment that I'm unhealthy when you're craving Greggs at 8am when your lazy a*s wakes up.... 'So go f*ck yourselves. The world is a sad place when everyone is normalising being a fat b*****d and having your organs surrounded by layers of fat is normal. OBESITY IS THE NHS BIGGEST COST. Then you all moan you can't get a doctors appt.' Luisa has spoken in the past about pressures to lose weight and blasted stars for 'promoting thinspiration'. In 2014, she hit out at Nicole Richie and Victoria Beckham for encouraging fans to slim down, writing: '[It] is so irresponsible, especially to vulnerable teens growing up and acclimatising to their own changing shape. 'I have starved myself to be thin, shrinking down to a small size 6. On reflection, it leaves me devastated to think I felt I had to do that to be happy.' Blake Lively's tense conversation with Justin Baldoni's lawyer over an alleged smear campaign against her has been revealed in her deposition ahead of their legal case. The actress, 37, filed a lawsuit in December against Justin, 41, his Wayfarer Studios team, their publicist and PR representatives, alleging sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign - which they have all denied. Blake then gave evidence under oath during a deposition hearing in New York on July 30, with her remarks now being revealed in a transcript released after a court order. According to People, which obtained a section of the deposition, Blake claimed that she doesn't feel like the alleged 'smear campaign' against her has ended. She was reportedly asked by an unnamed lawyer for her It Ends With Us co-star Justin: 'When did the smear campaign end?' To which she replied: 'It doesn't feel like it's ended.' Blake Lively's tense conversation with Justin Baldoni 's lawyer over an alleged smear campaign against her has been revealed in her deposition (she is pictured on June 9) When quizzed on if it was still 'ongoing', Blake added: 'It feels that way, yes,' before claiming she believed all of the defendants and the lawyer were involved in the alleged campaign. 'I believe the act of a retaliatory lawsuit and the press that you have done and the statements that you have made about me and my character have felt incredibly retaliatory,' she added. Justin's $400million countersuit was dismissed by a judge in June. On August 7, a spokesperson for Blake said in a statement they were 'pleased with the outcome of her deposition and looked forward to deposing Justin and each of the co-defendants in short order'. The full deposition transcript reportedly spans nearly 300 pages and a portion was made public following Judge Lewis J. Liman's order from August 8. The lawyer in question wasn't named but in June, Justin's attorney Bryan Freedman told TMZ that he would question Blake under oath. At the time, he also told how Justin was seeking to be 'vindicated' and 'wants the truth to come out in the appropriate way'. The lawyer added: 'He's waiting for his day in court, where he can speak out to tell the truth.' According to People Blake claimed that she doesn't feel like the alleged 'smear campaign' against her has ended (they are both pictured on set of It Ends With Us in January 2024) Filings show Blake's lawyers accused Justin's team of leaking deposition details to create a 'media circus' and advance a narrative of a direct confrontation. Justin's lawyers have countered any leaks could have originated from Blake, her actor husband Ryan Reynolds, her attorneys or staff. Multiple defendants and eight attorneys were present at her deposition, while Blake also arrived supported by her sister and best friend Robyn and husband Ryan Reynolds. However, they were not with her in the room when she gave evidence over the course of a long day. During the deposition, Blake gave her account of events which led up to her filing a lawsuit against Justin in December of last year. The mother-of-four had claimed Justin, 41, was able to nuzzle her neck and comment on the way she smelled without anyone else on set hearing because their microphones were switched off. But footage later emerged seeming to prove the opposite - not only were the microphones on, but the pair had spent most of the scene chatting about their respective spouses. Blake's claims that Justin orchestrated a negative media campaign against her have also been called into question thanks to her reliance on what his team have described as 'doctored' texts. Blake filed a lawsuit in December against Justin, 41, his Wayfarer Studios team, their publicist, alleging sexual harassment and a retaliatory smear campaign - which they have all denied Documents filed by Justin claim that the texts between his publicists Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel, had been edited to remove context and were incomplete. Earlier this year, a New York judge tossed Blake's emotional distress claim after she refused to release her medical records to Justin's team. But last month, Blake claimed total 'vindication' after the judge sensationally tossed almost all of Justin's $400million countersuit against the actress and her husband Ryan. There will be further depositions before the case comes to trial in March next year. Georgia Toffolo displayed her toned figure in a tiny bikini as she showed off her holiday outfits in Marbella. The Made In Chelsea star, 30, has been enjoying a sun-soaked trip to Spain with her family. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Georgia shared a collection of snaps from the trip, including one in her bikini as she munched on a slice of toast. Georgia showed off her toned abs in the skimpy black Lido two-piece, which she covered with a Bel Studios turquoise lace beach mini-dress. In snaps of her wearing the beach cover-up, Georgia paired the look with a pair of Ancient Greek Sandals and accessorised with a Free People beach bag and Szade sunglasses. Another look saw Georgia step out for the day in a white frilly linen blouse, from Minka Dink London, featuring an oversized collar, and a pair of black, yellow and red Adidas shorts. Georgia Toffolo displayed her toned figure in a tiny bikini as she showed off her holiday outfits during Marbella trip on Instagram on Wednesday The Made In Chelsea star, 30, has been enjoying a sun-soaked trip to Spain with her family Georgia was also seen stepping out of a jeep wearing a brown vintage patterned strapless 60s-style mini-dress, paired with a straw sun hat. She captioned the snaps: 'A trip to Espanol is always a good idea. Consider this my official application to become a local. Comment your fave outfit xx.' It comes after Georgia addressed the speculation she is expecting her first child after her husband James Watt was forced to deny that she is pregnant. Fans were left confused after she teased 'major news' and seemingly shared a 'bump picture' on her Instagram page last week during a holiday to Iceland. It came shortly after she shared a picture of a scan stating she had 'big news', before quickly confirming she wasn't pregnant but was in fact sharing James' damaged foot. She then added further fuel to the fire by posing in a pair of waders with items stuffed down in front, creating the illusion of a bump. However, setting the record straight, Georgia shared the picture with her seemingly rounded stomach and wrote: 'Just to confirm I AM NOT PREGNANT, can a girl just carry her essentials in her waders lol'. The denial came after Georgia shared a selection of snaps from their recent romantic getaway, which included a salmon fishing trip. Georgia showed off her toned abs in the skimpy black Lido two-piece, which she covered with a Bel Studios turquoise lace beach mini-dress In snaps of her wearing the beach cover-up, Georgia paired the look with a pair of Ancient Greek Sandals and accessorised with a Free People beach bag and Szade sunglasses Another look saw Georgia step out for the day in a white frilly linen blouse, from Minka Dink London Georgia's white blouse featured an oversized collar, and a pair of black, yellow and red Adidas shorts Elsewhere Georgia wore a vintage multicoloured head scarf and a pair of brown sandals Georgia was also seen stepping out of a jeep wearing a brown vintage patterned strapless 60s-style mini-dress, paired with a straw sun hat Underneath the gallery of images, one person commented: 'Are you pregnant?', to which Georgia's husband retorted: 'I don't think she is'. Several people commented underneath the exchange that it was inappropriate for anyone to ask the former Made In Chelsea star such a personal question. Georgia's 'major news' was actually that she had finally caught her first Atlantic salmon, which she revealed she had already tried many times in three countries. She sweetly captioned the photos: 'Making memories with my forever person'. Georgia and James looked as loved-up as ever in the snaps, as they gave an insight into their getaway which included picturesque walks and fishing. The former I'm A Celeb star looked typically chic, even in her fishing gear, which included a jumper and waterproof dungarees. It comes after Georgia addressed speculation she is expecting her first child after her husband James Watt was forced to deny that she is pregnant Fans were left confused after she teased 'major news' and seemingly shared a 'bump picture' on her Instagram page last week during a holiday to Iceland Another look saw her sport a striped top underneath a cream knit sleeveless jumper, accessorising with a burnt orange head scarf and shades. The couple were also joined by two black Labradors. Georgia and James said 'I do' on a fishing boat earlier this year. However, they ditched their fishing attire for much more glamorous ensembles for their church service. The reality star looked out of this world in a strapless corset dress and flowing veil, while James opted for a classic navy suit. The couple settled their pre-wedding nerves with a slice of jam on toast and a cup of tea in James' granny's kitchen. Samie Elishi put on a sizzling display in an olive green crochet bikini as she modelled for PrettyLittleThing. The Love Island star, 25, has recently signed a a deal with the clothing brand to model their pieces in her social media posts. Samie posed up a storm for a photoshoot by the pool on a scorching hot August afternoon. The reality star was glowing as she displayed her toned abs in a skimpy green crocheted two-piece. Samie paired the bikini with matching low-rise beachwear trousers with her brunette locks styled in voluminous waves. Elsewhere Samie also modelled PLT Label casual, sporting a navy satin co-ord consisting of a half-zip sweater and wide-leg trousers. Samie Elishi put on a sizzling display in an olive green crochet bikini as she modelled for PrettyLittleThing The Love Island star, 25, has recently signed a a deal with the clothing brand to model their pieces in her social media posts It comes after Samie set pulses racing in a bright blue bikini as she jetted off to Mykonos for a trip with NARS last month. She took to Instagram to share a clip as she got ready for the sun by applying Kopari Rose Gold sunscreen. In the clip, Samie looked radiant as she showed off her sensational figure in the cobalt My Outfit Online two-piece, which featured low-rise briefs and a sporty halterneck bikini top. Samie's brunette locks were in tight curls ahead of her beach day as she smiled for the camera while applying her sunscreen. The reality star was joined by fellow former Love Islander Sophie Piper on the trip to Greece. Earlier this month, Samie showed ex Sam Thompson what he's missing as she posed for sultry bikini snaps while in Bali. She flaunted her jaw-dropping figure in a colourful skimpy two-piece during her Bali getaway. Samie had a matching cover-up on her daybed while sunbathing and accessorised with stylish sunglasses. The reality star was glowing as she displayed her toned abs in a skimpy green crocheted two-piece Samie posed up a storm for a photoshoot by the pool on a scorching hot August afternoon Elsewhere Samie also modelled PLT Label casual, sporting a navy satin co-ord as she sat by the pool Samie's co-ord consisted of a half-zip sweater and wide-leg trousers as she sipped on a drink The influencer went make-up free for the Instagram pictures, which saw her sprawled out on all fours. In June, a source revealed the pair had ended their two-month romance after things 'fizzled out' between them. It comes after Samie confessed she 'loves Bali' just days after Molly-Mae's sister was mocked for leaving the island after just 48 hours due to being disappointed. Zoe, 28, has been slammed by her followers this last week after she confessed Bali did not meet her expectations and so fled to Dubai instead after just two days. The fitness enthusiast travelled to the Indonesian country to celebrate her one-year anniversary with her husband Danny. But despite staying in a huge sea view room at a 5-star Radisson Blu, 'something wasn't quite right' and so she fled her resort. And it appeared that Samie has taken a subtle swipe at the star as she showed her support for the developing region during her holiday. As her wine glass was being topped up, Samie posted a snap of herself to her Instagram Stories with the caption. 'Cheers bbys, I luv Bali'. It comes after Samie set pulses racing in a bright blue bikini on Instagram last month on as she jetted off to Mykonos for a trip with NARS In the clip, Samie looked radiant as she showed off her sensational figure in the cobalt My Outfit Online two-piece When Zoe explained the reasoning behind her departure, she claimed that Bali looks better on social media than in real life, as influencers make it look luxurious, despite it being a developing country. In a new YouTube video, Zoe told the camera: 'Since landing in Bali, something for us wasn't quite right. 'We came here with high expectations because we had seen on social media that everyone was having such a lovely time. Lovely places to eat and beaches, and lovely gyms and coffee shops. 'But I don't think the reality of Bali is shown much at all, and I do think it is down to a lot of influencers posting the more luxury side of things.' Gethin Jones put a brave face on as he stepped out for the first time since announcing his father has died. The TV presenter, 47, announced the sad news earlier this week after his father had battled illness for period of time. Gethin shared the final picture of his smiling alongside his father in hospital on Monday alongside a heartfelt post about the man who clearly meant so much to him. He revealed he had been playing him hymns and Arias from his phone just hours before his death. Sharing the famous the Max Boyce quote, Gethin wrote: 'Wales defeated England. Hymns and Arias with dad last night, before he left us this morning. Gethin Jones was seen for the first time since his father Goronwy Jones died as he headed out in Cheshire on Thursday- after sharing a heartfelt post about the man he thought the world of The TV presenter had announced the passing of his father three days earlier as he paid a heartfelt tribute to him alongside this sweet photo 'The most perfect, peaceful end. Welsh hymns playing, and the grandsons on speaker phone saying goodbye.' Gethin revealed his father had battled illness for period of time as he highlighted the importance of humour in helping his family. He said: 'Dad was poorly for a while, he put up a good fight, incredible really. It was so nice to see his dry humour, the importance of faith and his love for classical music shine through at the end.' 'Every day I've been at the Heath Hospital in Cardiff, someone would stop me and ask me about dad. 'He probably taught them at some point. He made a big impact on education in these parts over a long period of time. 'He was strict and direct, always reasonable. A teacher for 40 years, a headteacher for 28!' The Strictly star went on to thank the NHS for looking after his father, noting that his sister, who also works for the institution, has been 'amazing'. Gethin has been a pillar of suport for his dad and revealed his father had battled illness for period of time as he highlighted the importance of humour in helping his family He was glued to his phone as he headed to the gym following a tough week The presenter's celebrity friends and fans were quick to share their condolences in the comments section of the post The presenter's celebrity friends and fans were quick to share their condolences in the comments section of the post. Sir Chris Hoy wrote: 'So sorry to hear it mate, but heartwarming to see him surrounded with love. x' Russell T Davies: 'Oh much love, darling xx' Writing in Welsh, fellow The One Show presenter Alex Jones said: 'Thinking of you Geth. Loads of love to you all.' The cast of the Netflix hit series Wednesday dropped a major spoiler for the upcoming part two of the second season, while on a promotional visit to Sydney. Jenna Ortega was joined by her co-star Emma Myers for the event, held on Sydney's Cockatoo Island. Also on hand was Hollywood director Tim Burton, who also serves as executive producer for the cult series. But the heart-stopping moment came when Gwendoline Christie emerged from behind a moon backdrop. Gwendoline announced to the shocked crowd that her villain character, Nevermore Academy headmistress Larissa Weems, would be back from the dead in the second part of season two. 'Did you really think Nevermore would let me go so easily! I was never gone. You just stopped looking,' Gwendoline told the audience while in character. The cast of the Netflix hit series Wednesday dropped a major spoiler for the upcoming part two of the second season, while on a promotional visit to Sydney. Jenna Ortega was joined by her co-star Emma Myers for the event, held on Sydney's Cockatoo Island. Both pictured A heart-stopping moment came when Gwendoline Christie (pictured) emerged from behind a moon backdrop Gwendoline announced to the shocked crowd that her villain character, Nevermore Academy headmistress Larissa Weems, would be back from the dead in the second part of season two Meanwhile, Jenna, 22, wowed onlookers in a daring ensemble which featured a hairy black and white overcoat, a matching shirt, and lace-up high boots. Sporting her signature 'Goth' look for the event, held on Cockatoo Island, Jenna wore her long dark locks out in a 'messy' chic style. 'It's such an honour,' Jenna said about the role, which has brought her global attention. 'Oftentimes, you don't get to revisit your character, so to be able to do it with someone like Wednesday. I feel very, very lucky.' During the promotional event, Burton, 66, revealed how closely he identified with the character of Wednesday, who has her origins in The Addams Family cartoons from the 1930s. 'I love the character,' the director of Beetlejuice and Ed Wood said. 'I agree with everything she says, everything she feels about family, school, psychiatry and society, so that's why we're here in this beautiful place. It's something I really identify with.' Also at the launch were Wednesday's creators and showrunners Alfred Gough and Miles Millar. Wednesday dropped on Netflix with four episodes on August 6, while part II of the series will premiere on September 3. It comes after Jenna was living up to her Gothic character as she went for a quick wade at Bondi Beach on Wednesday. 'It's such an honour,' Jenna said about the role, which has brought her global attention Wednesday dropped on Netflix with four episodes on August 6, while part II of the series will premiere on September 3 The star, who flew into Sydney this week, stopped by the iconic seaside location on Wednesday and couldn't resist a dip. Dropping by in between promotional duties for the hit Netflix series, Jenna was clad head-to-toe in black leather - but that didn't stop her from experiencing the ocean. Jenna slipped off her boots but kept on her long, leather trench coat and her sunglasses on as she took advantage of the sunny weather and soaked her feet. The Hollywood actress is Down Under for the opening of a fan festival in Sydney. The first four episodes of Wednesday's second season debuted to critical acclaim at the beginning of the month. The show, a spin-off from hit comic series The Addams Family, made headlines in 2022 after its first season nabbed the number one most popular English-language TV title ever on Netflix, according to Variety. The second season is predicted to achieve similar success after it amassed over 50 million views in its first five days of streaming on the platform. It has been announced that not only will Wednesday be back for a third series, but a spin-off show is currently under discussion, according to Hollywood Reporter. The Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has paid tribute to world-famous film lover David Stratton. Known to many of his intimates as 'Stratts', the English-born critic died peacefully, aged 85, in a hospital near his Blue Mountains home west of Sydney on Thursday. Renowned and admired for his encyclopaedic knowledge on all things cinema, Stratton was a teacher, film critic, author and reluctant TV personality. He rose to fame alongside co-host Margaret Pomeranz. Together for almost three decades, they steered an innovative movie review program - first with The Movie Show on SBS and later At The Movies on the ABC. Mr. Albanese was one of millions who were touched by the quietly spoken and famously reserved critic. The Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has paid tribute to world-famous film lover David Stratton (pictured). Known to many of his intimates as 'Stratts', the English-born critic died peacefully, aged 85 Mr. Albanese (pictured) was one of millions who were touched by the quietly spoken and famously reserved critic 'With dry humour and sharp insight, David Stratton shared his love of film with our country,' the PM said in a statement on Thursday. 'All of us who tuned in to At the Movies respected him for his deep knowledge and for the gentle and generous way he passed it on. May he rest in peace.' Faced with a series of health issues, Stratton retired in 2023 after a life dedicated to film. 'David's passion for film, commitment to Australian cinema, and generous spirit touched countless lives,' his family said. 'He was adored as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and admired friend. 'David's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support from friends, colleagues, and the public recently and across his lifetime.' They also had a special request for film buffs. '[We] invite everyone to celebrate David's remarkable life and legacy by watching their favourite movie, or David's favourite movie of all time - Singin' In the Rain,' the family added. Born in Wiltshire, England, Stratton arrived in Australia in 1963 under the 'Ten Pound Pom' migration scheme and quickly became involved with the local film industry. In 1980, Stratton joined SBS as a film consultant, where he later starred on-screen co-hosting the long-running The Movie Show alongside Margaret Pomeranz (left) until 2004 'With dry humour and sharp insight, David Stratton shared his love of film with our country,' the PM said in a statement on Thursday He became director of the Sydney Film Festival (SFF) in 1966. Under his leadership he re-shaped the organisation. While head of the SFF Stratton battled the appalling censorship of the time - which had led to massive cuts in films. He left the SFF in 1983, leaving the event financially secure and respected worldwide. It was revealed decades later that Stratton was under surveillance from the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation at the time due to the festival screening films from the Soviet Union and his visit to the communist state in the late 1960s. In 1980, Stratton joined SBS as a film consultant, where he later starred on-screen co-hosting the long-running The Movie Show alongside Margaret Pomeranz until 2004. He later said that his role at SBS was his 'proudest' moment. Stratton curated and hosted hundreds of screenings from some of the world's greatest filmmakers on SBS Cinema Classics on Sunday evenings and the Movie of the Week. Stratton and Pomeranz hosted At the Movies at the ABC for ten years until their retirement in 2014. He received numerous awards for his contributions to Australian society and the film industry, including the Order of Australia and the Centenary Medal. Stratton's final film review was published in The Australian in early 2024. Plans for a public memorial service are underway. Jennifer Aniston has filled her home with 'healing modalities in order to create a calm environment,' the star has said. Those 'healing modalities' are crystals which she insisted banishes negative 'nerves' from her $21M mansion. The Friends actress, 56, opened the doors of her Los Angeles home to Vanity Fair, declaring it a sanctuary from the pressures of both Hollywood and the wider world. She said when told during the chat it exudes calmness: 'Good! That's the whole point.' Motioning towards the outside world, she added: 'Out there, it causes nerves. In here, there should be no nerves.' The actress' splashy abode was opened to Vanity Fair's Julie Miller, who took a detailed look inside the residence for the magazine's September cover story. Jennifer Aniston has filled her home with crystals to banish negative 'nerves' from the mansion The Friends actress, 56, opened the doors of her Los Angeles home to Vanity Fair, declaring it a sanctuary from the pressures of both Hollywood and the wider world. Jennifer purchased the 8,500 square-foot home in 2011 Jennifer added: 'I've basically incorporated all of the healing modalities in order to create a calm environment in the chaos of the wonderful industry and the world at large.' The home features crystals including raw amethyst and a white stone for clarity, an incense holder decorated with crows, and a curated selection of design books. Designed by the architects A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons, the house maintains a serene atmosphere through pale cream couches, white peonies and taper candles. Large panoramic windows take up an entire wall, offering sweeping views from Downtown L.A. to the Pacific Ocean, reinforcing the home's spa-like calm. The space notably lacks screens or ambient noise, enhancing its anxiety-suppressing effect. Jennifer also shared her passion for interior design, a hobby she shares with her longtime Friends co-star Courteney Cox, 59. She said: 'We usually talk interior design. She said when told during the chat it exudes calmness: 'Good! That's the whole point.' Seen inside her home Motioning towards the outside world, she added: 'Out there, it causes nerves. In here, there should be no nerves' The actress' $21 million abode, located in L.A., was opened to Vanity Fair's Julie Miller, who took a detailed look inside the residence for the magazine's September cover story Jennifer opened the doors to Architectural Digest in February 2018. She told the magazine that she'd 'want to be a designer' if she wasn't an actress because she loves 'the process' 'It kind of bores people to tears when we get into a room together. But it's what we love. It's our love language.' The actress described how she curates her life around architecture, animals, hair, and spiritual affirmations to find inspiration without being overwhelmed by online noise. She added: 'I try to stay away from the noise as much as possible. 'Thankfully, my algorithm is animals, architecture, hair and spiritual affirmations. So it's not that doomy.' Through the combination of intentional decor choices, panoramic views, and a carefully managed digital environment, Jennifer has fashioned a personal oasis where visitors can also experience a sense of calm, the Vanity Fair feature showed. Also in her interview Aniston said she is not a nepo baby. She was born to parents John Aniston and Nancy Dow, who were both actors, but she insists she has not benefitted from nepotism. In a new interview with Vanity Fair, the star denied riding her parents coattails to build her career. John, who died in 2022, was best known for his role as Victor Kiriakis on Days of Our Lives. And Nancy, who died in 2016, found success in the 60s on shows like The Beverly Hillbillies and The Wild Wild West. 'Listen, I am so grateful. I came from nothing. We were broke. Theres no nepo baby here,' she declared. Jennifer was raised in New York City, where she developed her acting chops at the LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. Part of her ambition stemmed from 'always wanting to get Pops approval,' she said of her late father. 'It was the thing that drove me and was also my biggest heartbreak: trying to impress and prove your value to a man whos only capable of so much,' she explained. The Hollywood fixture said she thought that if she could achieve noteworthy success 'then he will love me as much as I love him.' Kelsey Parker shared an emotional message in memory of her stillborn son Phoenix alongside a photograph of her tattoo. The podcaster, 34, shared the devastating news that her unborn baby Phoenix - her first child with her boyfriend Will Lindsay - was 'born sleeping' last month. Kelsey, who is the widow of The Wanted star Tom Parker, took to Instagram on Thursday to share a post remembering Phoenix. She re-shared a video of her getting her and Tom's children's names - Aurelia and Bodhi - tattooed on her arms back in March 2023, as well as a phoenix down her ribs. Since losing her son, the mythical bird tattoo has taken on an added meaning for Kelsey as she wrote in a caption of her latest post: 'My little Phoenix with me everyday.' Kelsey originally got the tattoo in memory of her late husband Tom because she used to always send him 'a quote about a Phoenix to encourage him to rise up'. Kelsey Parker has revealed how she's told her children she will never leave them following the death of her baby, three years after her husband Tom died from a brain tumor Since losing her son, a mythical bird tattoo she got in 2023 has taken on an added meaning for Kelsey as she wrote in a caption of her latest post: 'My little Phoenix with me everyday' Kelsey also shared an added tribute to Phoenix as she posted a photograph of an orange sunset alongside the words: 'I'm thinking of you, I see you, I miss you.' Kelsey shares two children - Aurelia, six, and Bodhi, four - with her late husband Tom, who died from a brain tumour in March 2023. She found love again with tree surgeon Will Lindsay, two years after Tom's death, and she fell pregnant soon after, but their son Phoenix was stillborn at 39 weeks in June. Kelsey recently told the Daily Mail how she explained Phoenix's tragic death to her two older children. She said: 'Well I do think I'm a little bit of a pro now when it comes to grief. I just felt what was natural and I think your children lead you as well into where they want to go with the conversation around death. 'So my daughter wants to talk about it all the time and Bodhi is more quiet, so I then take the lead and when they want to have a conversation, we talk about it, but I'm very open and I'm very honest. 'I don't use words like anyone's gone to sleep, you know, they are dead and they're not coming back. So I just try my best.' She emotionally shared that her children are 'so aware of death' after losing their father and how important it was that they knew she was 'not going anywhere'. Taking to Instagram, Kelsey also shared an added tribute to Phoenix as she posted a photograph of an orange sunset alongside the words: 'I'm thinking of you, I see you, I miss you' Her husband Tom, who rose to fame in boy band The Wanted, tragically died from brain cancer in 2022, at the age of 33, four years after marrying Kelsey (they are pictured in 2021) She found love again with tree surgeon Will Lindsay after Tom's death, and she fell pregnant, but their son Phoenix was stillborn in June (they are pictured with Kelsey's two kids) 'Well, I actually sent my children back [to school] on the Monday after we lost Phoenix,' she explained. 'They went straight back to school because I think routine is so good for your children in loss, because the adults are grieving and they're hearing a lot of words and a lot of talking. 'And I think for them, normality and being in school is really good for them. And routine, I think well, not maybe school such, but routine. Like living their routine was good for them. 'They needed to see me be there, I was doing the school pickup because they needed to know that I was okay and that I'm not going anywhere. 'So I think that's really important, especially after since they obviously lost Tom as well.' She added: 'They are so aware of death and loss, so I think it's more the other children in the class that haven't gone through it and my children are talking about death, but it's making and going to make my children the strongest of adults.' Her husband Tom tragically died from brain cancer in 2022, at the age of 33, four years after marrying Kelsey. If you have been affected by anything in this article, please contact The Lullaby Trust on 0808 8026868 Alex Kingston's raunchy start to her career has been revealed after she became the third star to sign up for this year's Strictly Come Dancing. Her journey from butchers daughter to internationally acclaimed actress and the latest star to sign up for the BBCs flagship show began almost 30 years ago. And it certainly was a risque beginning to stardom, with Alex, 62, earning extra cash as a nude life model for artists before going on to star in the 1996 romp The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders. The series was an adaptation of the novel Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe and charts the bed-hopping antics of the criminals daughter brought up in society. And the show was Alexs springboard to fame and brought her to worldwide attention, not least for the number of bodice-ripping scenes she featured in. Since then, Alex, who has starred in Doctor Who and EastEnders, has never been shy about stripping off in front of the camera. Alex Kingston's raunchy start to her career has been revealed after she became the third star to sign up for this year's Strictly Come Dancing [pictured] It certainly was a risque beginning to stardom, with Alex, 62, earning extra cash as a nude life model for artists before going on to star in the 1996 romp The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders. Alex has starred in some very racy roles that have seen her strip off for the camera amid her 30-year career [pictured with Charlie Creed-Miles in 2000's Essex Boys] Two years later, she appeared alongside Clive Owen as Jani de Villiers in the gambling flick Croupier, where movie fans could bet on getting more than a glimpse of her impressive curves. In 2000, in the film Essex Boys, came more raunchy scenes with her leading man. The film is loosely based on events in December 1995 that culminated in the murders of three drug dealers in Rettendon, Essex, UK, and she played femme fatale Lisa Locke. And in the 2011 series Marchlands, Alex was seen in the buff yet again when she played Helen Maynard in a supernatural drama following the lives of three families who live in the same remote house in different time period, and in the 2019 series The Widow, she locked lips with co-star Siobhan Finneran. But in a recent interview with The Telegraph, she said she had managed to avoid the horrors of the Harvey Weinstein-style casting couch predators. She grew up the daughter of a butcher and an art teacher, making her screen debut aged 17 as Grange Hill bully Jill Harcourt. She told the publication last year: 'Casting couch culture still existed when I came out of drama school. If you were a young girl, youd likely encounter something at some point I have friends who did and, if you were on the up, people might question how you got there. 'I was too naive to read the signs and in a weird way that protected me, because I never went for "the drink in the pub".' The show was Alexs springboard to fame and brought her to worldwide attention, not least for the number of bodice-ripping scenes she featured in Two years later, she appeared alongside Clive Owen as Jani de Villiers in the gambling flick Croupier, where movie fans could bet on getting more than a glimpse of her impressive curves In 2000, in the film Essex Boys, came more raunchy scenes with her leading man [pictured with Sean Bean] The film is loosely based on events in December 1995 that culminated in the murders of three drug dealers in Rettendon, Essex, UK, and she played femme fatale Lisa Locke [pictured in Essex Boys] Her role in Moll Flanders earned her a Bafta nomination and a fruitful new career path as ERs Elizabeth Corday. Nowadays, such demands would require intimacy coordinators and, while she is relieved such provisions are in place for her drama-student daughter Salome ('although shes very ballsy, she can look after herself'), she regards her own blase attitude with fondness. 'I was a life-drawing model so I was very used to being naked around people. After one of Molls earliest sex scenes, the first AD [assistant director] jumped into bed and the three of us had a post-coital fag together because we thought it was funny. You couldnt do that nowadays, which is probably a good thing', she added. But she did infamously bite the tongue of a male co-star in a stage play leaving him needing stitches in his tongue. She was unhappy when the unnamed lead used his tongue in their kissing scenes and issued a warning to him to stop the saucy smooch. The actor refused, and Alex bit his tongue while they were mid-performance - and it was only the next day she realised the severity of what she had done. She told The Graham Norton Show in 2011: 'Interestingly, and I'm not going to mention the actor's name... I did do a job once. I did a play and at the end of the play there was a kiss and we'd been doing this for a long time, a long run, and this actor, every time we did this kiss, he would stick his tongue down my throat... 'So I said, "If you do that again I will bite your tongue", and I think he thought I was joking so the next performance he did it again and I bit his tongue and clung on for a while, and didn't think anything of it. 'And then the next day, when we were backstage and I bumped into him, he was just having soup and I couldn't understand why he wasn't eating anything more substantial, so I said, "You're only having soup?" and he said, "I've got four stitches in my tongue". 'I had actually bitten through his tongue! I warned him!' Alex is pictured in another racy promotional shot for ITV show The Fortunes and Misfortunes of Moll Flanders Alex's very colourful career comes as she's set to add another string to her bow - as a Strictly contestant. Speaking to The One Show hosts Roman Kemp and Alex Scott on Monday about her upcoming stint, the actress teased: 'My hips don't lie' [pictured in February] Alex notably appeared in US drama ER [pictured] from 1997 to 2005 alongside George Clooney She memorably took on a recurring role in Doctor Who, playing River Song - the love interest of Matt Smith's incarnation of the Doctor Alex's very colourful career comes as she's set to add another string to her bow - as a Strictly contestant. Speaking to The One Show hosts Roman Kemp and Alex Scott on Monday about her upcoming stint, the actress teased: 'My hips don't lie'. Alex notably appeared in US drama ER from 1997 to 2005 alongside George Clooney. She also took on a recurring role in Doctor Who, playing River Song - the love interest of Matt Smith's incarnation of the Doctor and the daughter of Amy (Karen Gillan) and Rory (Arthur Darvill). Alex briefly reprised her role during Peter Capaldi's stint on the BBC sci-fi show and has also leant her voice to a number of audio releases in the franchise. Alex has previously spoken about her desire to sign up for Strictly, revealing she and her close friend Sarah Hadland - who competed last year - had discussed it. 'Sarah Hadland and I talked about how much we'd like to do Strictly Come Dancing,' she said in 2019. 'Then I discovered she's a trained ballet dancer. ''Hang on a minute! That's not fair!'' So, I can't do it on a season when she is on it!' Sharon Stone's three sons accompanied her onto the red carpet in Hollywood on Monday for the Los Angeles premiere of her latest film, Nobody 2. The Oscar-nominated actress, 67, who plays the role of Lendina in the dark comedy from Universal Pictures, looked amazing as she walked the red carpet at the TCL Chinese Theatre. The Basic Instinct star was pictured with her three adoptive sons Roan, 25, Laird, 20, and Quinn, 19, as she made her way to the screening room. When on Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday, the beauty said her values kept her a good parent. 'I wouldn't have survived [without the values],' she admitted. 'I wouldn't be a sober, healthy, working mom who was able to take three adopted kids which is just different, let's just say and do it by myself with the help of wonderful nannies if I didn't come from grounded, moral values.' Sharon Stone was pictured with her three adoptive sons (L-R) Roan, 25, Quinn, 19, and Laird, 20, earlier this week in Hollywood The Beauty of Living Twice author beamed as she was surrounded by her sons And there have been hiccups. 'My kids were off school during COVID. We all went through this. Our kids are online and then they are confused about their value systems. It's been a complicated period to raise children,' she said. Stone continued, sharing, 'And then I see these pictures of them... All of us on the red carpet. I called them all last night, and we were all talking about it. And I just [told] each one of them how proud I was of them because I looked at them as individuals in that picture. Grounded, centered, handsome, organized. I was so proud of them. 'I said to my youngest, I said, "You know what? We did it." And he said, "Mom, we're a family that weathered the storm,"' she added. Stone opened up in 2022 about motherhood in an emotional Instagram comment. Stone, who's also been seen in movies such as Sliver, Last Action Hero, and Total Recall, bravely spoke about her own journey whereas it related to maternity and miscarriage. When on Late Night With Seth Meyers on Wednesday, the beauty said her values kept her a good parent. 'I wouldn't have survived [without the values],' she admitted Stone added: 'I wouldn't be a sober, healthy, working mom who was able to take three adopted kids which is just different, let's just say and do it by myself with the help of wonderful nannies if I didn't come from grounded, moral values' 'We, as females don't have a forum to discuss the profundity of this loss,' the actress said in a June 2022 comment on Instagram. 'I lost nine children by miscarriage.' She continued: 'It is no small thing, physically nor emotionally yet we are made to feel it is something to bear alone and secretly with some kind of sense of failure.' Stone said that 'instead of receiving the much needed compassion and empathy and healing which we so need,' women have been let down by gender discrimination due to a predominantly 'male ideology.' The outspoken star added, 'Female health and wellness left to the care of the male ideology has become lax at best, ignorant in fact, and violently oppressive in effort.' Stone stars opposite Christopher Lloyd, Bob Odenkirk, Connie Nielsen, and Colin Hanks in the motion picture from director Timo Tjahjanto. The storyline focuses on 'suburban dad Hutch Mansell,' played by Lloyd, according to a logline for the film. It continued: 'Mansell, a former lethal assassin, is pulled back into his violent past after thwarting a home invasion.' The stunning Oscar-nominee beamed at the movie premiere in LA The Oscar-nominated actress, 67, who plays the role of Lendina in the dark comedy Here she showed off her gold platform shoes The action sets 'off a chain of events that unravels secrets about his wife Becca's past and his own.' Stone, who released her memoir The Beauty of Living Twice in 2021, took to Instagram Stories on Monday with a clip as she left her house for the premiere. 'On our way to NOBODY 2 Premier @nobodymovie,' Stone captioned the clip, which was set to NEU SONG's are you ready?. Nobody 2 arrived in theaters August 15. Lily James lifted the lid on her love life in a very sexy shoot for Who What Wear magazine. While the leggy star, 36, kept tight lipped if she is dating anyone currently, she did disclose she isn't a fan of dating apps. In the candid interview, the Hollywood actress - who tries to keep her relationships under wraps - admitted she feels 'self-conscious' to go on dating apps. She said: 'I was always in relationships when the [dating] apps started. Now, I just don't know. I feel a bit self-conscious. 'I try to stay really private, as private as I can. To be on a dating app feels a bit counterintuitive to that desire.' Lily also shared her fears for getting older, admitting her biggest change in her thirties has been realising 'life is finite'. Hollywood actress Lily James, 36, lifted the lid on her love life in a very sexy shoot for Who What Wear magazine While the leggy star kept tight lipped if she is dating anyone currently, she did disclose she isn't a fan of dating apps In the candid interview, the Hollywood actress - who tries to keep her relationships under wraps - admitted she feels 'self-conscious' to go on dating apps Lily James stars on Who What Wear's August edition She added: 'I only want to do stuff that I really care about. I want to spend time with the people I love. I want to make the most of this wild and crazy life, so I only want to work on stuff that I really love. That's changed.' The film star put on a very racy display in a slew of outfits in the shoot, flashing her washboard abs in a white bralette. In another shot, Lily flashed a hint of cleavage as she struck a pose in a suede red jacket and matching handbag. The Tom & Pammy star was last romantically linked to musician Michael Shuman in late 2023. It comes after Lily hit back at Instagram moderators on Monday after her latest post was removed by the social media platform for breaching community guidelines. The British actress has been on location in the Canadian wilderness while filming Harmonia, a forthcoming thriller from director Guy Nattiv. But she caught the eye of Instagram moderators after sharing an array of photos from the shoot, including one in which she and her co-stars appear to be completely naked. The blurred shot - posted to celebrate the film's completion - captures Lily and five unidentified fellow actresses holding hands as they form a tight circle and gaze up at the sky, as if in worship. She said: 'I was always in relationships when the [dating] apps started. Now, I just don't know. I feel a bit self-conscious' 'I try to stay really private, as private as I can. To be on a dating app feels a bit counterintuitive to that desire', she added In another shot, Lily flashed a hint of cleavage as she struck a pose in a suede red jacket and matching handbag Lily also shared her fears for getting older, admitting her biggest change in her thirties has been realising 'life is finite' She added: 'I only want to do stuff that I really care about. I want to spend time with the people I love. I want to make the most of this wild and crazy life, so I only want to work on stuff that I really love. That's changed' The film star put on a very racy display in a slew of outfits in the shoot, flashing her washboard abs in a white bralette Her shoot comes after Lily hit back at Instagram on Monday after her latest post was removed by the social media platform for breaching community guidelines Scheduled for release in 2026, Harmonia is inspired by the real life experiences of Nattiv's own grandmother and her connection to a bizarre cult in the 1980s. The new film also features Carrie Coon, formerly of The White Lotus, The Last Of Us star Bella Ramsey, and Odessa Young, who also features alongside Jeremy Allen White in forthcoming Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere. But Lily' apparent celebration of the shoot was cut short by Instagram, who removed the post in accordance with community guidelines regarding online nudity. Evidently unhappy with the decision, she later posted: 'Instagram you deleted my last post why' Instagram is yet to respond publicly, and the post remains notably absent from her social media platform. The company's community guidelines serve to implement restrictions on hate speech, bullying and content related to violence, self-harm and various illegal activities. Intellectual property, spam, inappropriate imagery and branded content are also monitored by the site. Helen Skelton showed off her toned figure in a bikini as she spent some time at a local pool with her children. The TV presenter, 42, who is said to have recently 'cooled off her romance with fellow TV star Gethin Jones, enjoyed a dip in the middle of the heatwave. Giving an insight into how she had spent the school holidays with her children so far, Helen shared a montage of clips to Instagram on Thursday. She shares three children, Ernie, nine, Louis, eight, and Elsie, four, with her ex-husband, Richie Myler. In the first clip, Helen held out an inflatable in the pool as her daughter jumped off the edge and into the water. She captioned the post: 'Water babies. Community pools and shallow streams for the heatwave win.' Helen Skelton showed off her toned figure in a bikini as she spent some time at a local pool with her children The TV presenter, 42, who is said to have recently 'cooled off her romance with fellow TV star Gethin Jones, enjoyed a dip in the middle of the heatwave Elsewhere, Gethin was spotted on celebrity dating app Raya after calling time on his romance with Helen. The Morning Live hosts have grown increasingly close in recent months after spending time with each other outside work, including a steamy spa break. MailOnline revealed in May how the pair's 'flirty' on screen chemistry had 'blossomed' into a deeper connection and they were seen acting like a 'couple' at charity event last year courtesy of their 'tactile' behaviour towards each other. And to add extra intrigue to their secret romance, the hosts' respective reps both refused to comment on the duo's relationship after being quizzed amid reports they were spotted leaving the BAFTA TV awards together. However, Gethin, 47, has delivered a blow to Morning Live viewers eager for the presenter and Helen to go public with their romance. The rugby fan has changed the location of his Raya profile to alert prospective suitors he's in Australia, where he was watching the British and Irish Lions with a group of male pals a few weeks ago. Giving an insight into how she had spent the school holidays with her children so far, Helen shared a montage of clips to Instagram on Thursday In the first clip, Helen held out an inflatable in the pool as her daughter jumped off the edge and into the water Elsewhere, Gethin was spotted on celebrity dating app Raya after calling time on his romance with Helen Helen has been single since her high profile 2022 break up from husband Richie Myler (pictured), the father of her three children Daily Mail contacted their representatives for comment at the time. Helen has been single since her high profile 2022 break up from husband Richie Myler, the father of her three children. The rugby league player was married to Helen for nine years with the former Strictly star writing on Instagram that she was very 'sad' he had 'left the family home'. Richie has since moved on with Stephanie Thirkill, the daughter of Leeds Rhinos president Andrew Thirkill, and they have welcomed two children, Olivia and Freddie. She instantly became a pop culture icon after bursting into the public eye as loudmouthed Page 3 girl, Jordan. Having tried her hand at modelling, singing, presenting, campaigning and reality TV, the glamour model quickly became a household name in Britain. Yet while Katie Price's moniker will ring a bell for both young and old, you would be forgiven for not recognising the star on sight alone, with Katie famously undergoing numerous cosmetic procedures over the years. After two decades in the spotlight, Katie is almost unrecognisable from the naturally pretty teenager who burst on to the modelling scene at the age of 16, with her natural curls and fresh-faced beauty winning her an army of fans. Katie, now 47, has undergone an array of procedures over the years, including rhinoplasty, a silhouette facelift, 3D, veneers, lip fillers and Botox, culminating in her first facelift in 2017. Now, after two decades under the surgeon's scalpel, Daily Mail takes a look at the many faces of Katie Price. The many faces of Katie Price: Daily Mail takes a look at the star's changing look after two decades of boob jobs, Botox and face lifts 1995 - Barefaced beauty At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling. At a friend's suggestion, the teenager had professional photographs taken and was quickly snapped up by a modelling agency who landed her a Page 3 slot in The Sun newspaper the following year, sparking the creation of her glamour model alter ego, Jordan. Speaking last year, Katie revealed she was glad that she wasn't exposed to social media at the time as she had 'no idea what Botox was or fillers', otherwise she may have started her tweaks and enhancements at an even earlier age. 1995: At the age of 17, Katie Price was a fresh-faced natural beauty looking to make it into the world of glamour modelling 1998 - First boob job Having just turned 20, the rising glamour model experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C. The procedure cost 4,500 and it's thought her mum Amy and stepdad Paul helped pay for her to have the procedure. Katie has since spoken out about her decision to go under the knife, admitting she was 'too young' and that she feels sorry for young girls growing up these days in a world of social media and filters. 1998: Having just turned 20, Katie experienced her first taste of cosmetic surgery, boosting her 32B cup breasts to a 32C 1999 - Second and third boob job Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures the following year at the age of 21. Katie boosted her bust from a C cup to a D cup and just a few months later went up again to a F cup. Katie has previously claimed that she has only paid for two of her boob jobs over the course of her career - it is not known if these were the ones. 1999: Despite having only just increased her breast size, Katie opted to have two more procedures at the age of 21 2001 - Lip fillers At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers. While the glamour model did not confirm the rumours at the time, she was seen sporting a noticeably fuller pout while out enjoying the party scene. Her overall look had also started drastically transforming, with the model sporting dramatic false lashes, bright lipstick and pale hair extensions. 2001: At the age of 21, Katie had her first cosmetic procedure on her face, opting for lip fillers 2004 - Botox Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines and wrinkles. She made no secret of her love of the procedure, announcing at the time: 'I get my forehead and around my eyes Botoxed every six months and I love it. You can't beat it. It just freezes all the wrinkles and that's what you want.' At the time, Katie insisted she would never take things further and have a facelift, explaining: 'I'd never have a full facelift. I've seen what they can do to people and I don't want to go through that.' 2004: Aged 26, Katie began to experiment with Botox injections that relax the muscles in your face to smooth out lines 2006 - Fourth boob job Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup. The glamour model also played around with her overall look and embraced her dark side with a new brunette hairstyle. She also continued to dabble with fillers and Botox. 2006: Katie went under the knife yet again to take her F cup breasts up to a G cup 2007 - First nose job and veneers At the age of 29, Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and treating herself to a 25,000 set of new veneers. 'Oh my God, it burned like hell!' she said at the time. 'The next day I had this hideous red rash on my chin but two days later there wasn't a single spot left.' Speaking about her nose job at the time, she admitted to liking her original nose, explaining: 'I liked my nose before and now. If I had a cupboard with both noses, I would alternate between them!' 2007:Katie took her love of surgery to the next level, undergoing rhinoplasty, a chemical peel and a 25,000 set of veneers 2008 - Fifth boob job Despite gradually increasingly her bust size over the year, Katie fancied a change on her 30th and brought her bra size back down from an F cup to a C cup. The procedure meant that Katie had returned to the size of her first boob job 10 years prior. Katie's changing shape also coincided with the launch of her first clothing line - an equestrian range. 2008: Despite gradually increasingly her bust size, Katie fancied a change and brought her bra size back down to a C cup 2011 - Sixth boob job Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup. Katie also underwent body-contouring treatment and cheek and lip fillers. The Loose Women panelist admitted that she loved having her cheeks filled to give her a 'plumper, more youthful look'. 2011: Katie's smaller chest didn't last long, and at age 33 she went back under the knife again to boost her bust to an F cup 2015 - Seventh and eighth boob job Just before appearing on Celebrity Big Brother, the reality star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast and an implant protruding from her flesh. Katie told her shocked housemates: 'Ive got no tits anymore. Theyve gone. Theres not even anything there. If you saw what Im like underneath. The scars gone septic. My whole implant was hanging out on New Years Day.' Shortly after leaving the Big Brother house she underwent corrective surgery and had her implants swapped for a D-cup. 2015: Just before Celebrity Big Brother, the star had a botched boob reduction that left her with a hole in her breast 2016 - Ninth boob job and tattooed makeup Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie was undeterred and flew to a Brussels clinic to go under the knife yet again, this time settling on a 32GG bust. The reality star also had her eyebrows and lips tattooed, also known as 'permanent make-up', explaining that she prefers to go make-up free on a day-to-day basis. Additionally the star has regular facial treatments, last year sharing a bloodied selfie after having a dermal roller micro-needling treatment, which sees a dermaroller with many tiny needles rolled across into the skin - designed to stimulate cells into regeneration. 2016: Despite her surgery horror the year before, Katie flew to a Brussels clinic to get another boob job, this time a 32GG cup 2017 - First face lift, new veneers and 10th boob job Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word undergoing a 'Silhouette' face lift. The procedure is designed to lift a sagging cheeks and blurred jawline, using 'sutures' implanted under the skin to sculpt features. However, Katie was soon spotted with puffy features, revealing that she suffered an allergic reaction to anesthetic penicillin after having further work on her veneers. She also had her breast implants reduced from 1000ml implants to 795ml. 2017: Despite insisting she would never have a face lift and could rely on Botox, Katie went back on her word 2018 - Second face lift Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40 to correct it. She said at the time 'I need to get my face re-corrected after surgeon has totally f**ked my face up', admitting it had He agent added: 'She had the thread and it really quite distorted her look. She got a lot of backlash, a lot of negative press, a lot of trolling, everyone saying shed taken it too far, when actually it was a job that had not gone to plan.' 2018: Katie claimed her first face lift had been a botched job and went back under the knife the following year aged 40 2019 - Third face lift, boob job first Brazilian bum lift and 11th boob job Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her entire look with a full body transformation. The reality star opted for a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck. Just three months later she returned to the clinic and opted for another boob job, going back down to a D cup. 2019: Katie jetted to Turkey to overhaul her look with a face, eye and eyelid lift, Brazilian bum lift along with a tummy tuck 2020 - 12th boob job and another set of veneers Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers and revealed her real teeth had been reduced to stubs as she flashed a smile on her YouTube channel. The mother-of-five then jetted to Belgium to correct botched surgery on her breasts, saying her surgeon was utterly shocked by the 'awful' previous procedure. Katie said: 'They looked deformed, they were absolutely awful. That's the first time I've gone to a different surgeon. I had to go back to Frank with my head down, ashamed that I'd been to another clinic.' 2020: Katie returned to Turkey to have another set of veneers then jetted to Belgium to correct a botched boob job 2021 - Liposuction, eye and lid lifts and 13th boob job Amid the Covid pandemic, Katie jetted off to then red-list Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts, liposuction under her chin, and fat injected into her bum. The reality star also visited Belgium to have her 13th boob job as well as full body liposuction with bum fat removal. The plastic surgery - performed by Dr Frank Plovier - came just five days ahead of the glamour model's sentencing for her shocking drink-drive crash. 2021: Katie jetted to Turkey for a complete cosmetic surgery overhaul, undergoing full body liposuction, eye and lip lifts 2022 - Another brow and eye lift Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium at the beginning of 2022 for an eye and brow lift and had been concealing her new look with her head in a bandage. Dr Judy Todd, an aesthetic doctor at Clinica Medica in Glasgow, said: 'It appears like she's had a face lift, temporal brow lift, and possibly an upper blepharoplasty.' It was reported last month that Katie plans to travel to Turkey imminently for yet more plastic surgery, amid claims she wanted to get some tweaks in after being unhappy with her latest work. Sian Dellar, Brow Specialist and Founder of Sian Dellar Permanent Makeup Clinic, added: 'Katie's eyebrows, like the rest of her, have changed lots over the years! 'Back in the 90s she had a very thin over plucked brow which was the fashion at the time, and today she has an extremely thick and unnatural looking brow. 'Currently it seems the face or eye lift that shes had have pulled her brows outward which looks unnatural and makes the brows appear almost stretched. 'Of course, as with any enhancement, its personal preference but we recommend not going too many shades darker, and keeping the shape as natural looking as possible and work to create or enhance brows to frame the face. 'Katies choice to have them so thick and dark and in that unusual positioning means they dominate her face and are the first thing the eye is drawn to. I would love to see Katie take her brows back to 2015/2016 when the fuller brow became a big trend. She got it right then and they framed her face well.' 2022: Katie secretly jetted back to Belgium for an eye and brow lift and is planning to to travel to Turkey for more surgery 2023 - 16th and 'biggest ever' boob job It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th. The star went under the knife in a bid to have the 'biggest in Britain' and was subsequently pictured being wheeled into surgery at the Be Clinic in Belgium. She is said to have wanted even bigger breasts, opting for 2120 CC implants in a bid to boost her already large bust size. Katie told OK! magazine of her boobs: 'I love them. They healed really quickly and they didn't hurt at all. That probably doesn't help. Because I heal quickly, it doesn't put me off and I have more. 'I would go bigger as well and I will eventually. I just love having big boobs and a small body. I've always loved that look. In my eyes, if I'm having a boob job, I want them to look fake, I don't want them to look natural. I don't like the natural look. 'I just like that old-school American Playboy pin-up look. When I have surgery, that is what I'm striving for. If I could look like my airbrushed pictures, that would be amazing. But that's impossible to achieve.' 2023: It's not clear if Katie lost track of the number of breast augmentations or opted to keep some of her surgery private but by 2023 it emerged she'd undergone her 16th boob job, two years after claiming to be on her 13th 2024 - MORE facial surgery In July 2024 Katie confirmed she is travelling to Turkey for facial surgery, to be filmed for a new documentary, after failing to attend a bankruptcy hearing. The former glamour model was absent at a scheduled 760,000 bankruptcy court hearing having flown overseas for her latest cosmetic procedure. A warrant was subsequently issued, with Katie admitting she's 'doing the best she can' to rectify her financial issues after receiving 'very clear warnings' that she needed to attend court. 2024: Katie confirmed she is travelling to Turkey for facial surgery, to be filmed for a new documentary, after failing to attend a bankruptcy hearing 2025 - Facelift 'tweaks' In January 2025, Katie flew abroad for 'tweaks' to her sixth 10,000 face lift and documented the trip for a new YouTube video. Katie, who was also getting a mini lift on her nose said she ignored the doctor's warnings about potential scarring and was just eager to get in and have her surgery. After undergoing the tweaks to her facelift and nose, the surgery wasn't finished for Katie. She had planned to get her ears pinned back to match her new taut visage, but after her blood pressure dropped during the surgery, the doctors advised she get the procedure the following day under local anesthetic. Olivia Jade Giannulli returned to her LA hometown on Wednesday night after her so-called 'move' to Paris in her first public sighting since ending her on/off four-year relationship with Euphoria star Jacob Elordi. The 25-year-old nepo baby of Lori Loughlin was dressed in an oversized camel-colored coat, white top, jean shorts, and white socks with black loafers on her way inside Italian restaurant E Baldi in Beverly Hills. Olivia was joined by a white-clad gal pal, whom she greeted in the garage. People was first to report on August 7 that Giannulli and the Austrailian 28-year-old broke up with Us Weekly revealing: 'Things have been rocky between them all summer.' 'Olivia moved to Paris to get away and have a fresh start for a bit. She needed a change of scenery,' a source told the outlet on August 8. 'Jacob is very focused on work, and has been traveling, so the distance had put a strain on their relationship. They both initiated the conversation and agreed it wasn't working.' Olivia Jade Giannulli returned to her LA hometown on Wednesday night after her so-called 'move' to Paris in her first public sighting since ending her on/off four-year relationship with Euphoria star Jacob Elordi Eyebrows raised on August 5 when Jacob reunited with his ex-girlfriend Kaia Gerber at an early birthday bash for Cara Delevingne held at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, but they arrived separately. Elordi had dated the 23-year-old nepo baby of Cindy Crawford for 14 months between 2020-2021. Olivia announced last month that she would be 'living in Paris for a little while' and 'hopefully launching my business at the end of this year.' Giannulli was previously living in her disgraced parents' six-bedroom $9.5M Hidden Hills mansion inside the gated Ashley Ridge neighborhood, which they relisted on the market for $16.5M in February. On July 30, the fame-hungry influencer candidly revealed she's been leaning on her therapist to cope with all the change she's been experiencing. 'It was very nice to have somebody with an unbiased opinion that could walk me through what I was going through,' Olivia - who boasts 4.4M social media followers - confessed in her YouTube vlog. 'It's no surprise therapy helped me a lot in my early 20s. I feel like it's given me so many of the tools I have now, especially I've been feeling this way with so much change in my own life happening like moving to Paris and then there's more big changes for me happening at the end of this year.' The 25-year-old nepo baby of Lori Loughlin was dressed in an oversized camel-colored coat, white top, jean shorts, and white socks with black loafers on her way inside Italian restaurant E Baldi in Beverly Hills Olivia was joined by a white-clad gal pal, whom she greeted in the garage People was first to report on August 7 that Giannulli and the Austrailian 28-year-old (pictured April 7) broke up with Us Weekly revealing: 'Things have been rocky between them all summer' A source told the outlet on August 8: 'Olivia moved to Paris to get away and have a fresh start for a bit. She needed a change of scenery. Jacob is very focused on work, and has been traveling, so the distance had put a strain on their relationship. They both initiated the conversation and agreed it wasn't working' (pictured Wednesday) Eyebrows raised on August 5 when Jacob reunited with his ex-girlfriend Kaia Gerber (L) at an early birthday bash for Cara Delevingne held at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood, but they arrived separately Olivia announced last month that she would be 'living in Paris for a little while' and 'hopefully launching my business at the end of this year' (pictured Tuesday) Giannulli was previously living in her disgraced parents' six-bedroom $9.5M Hidden Hills mansion inside the gated Ashley Ridge neighborhood, which they relisted on the market for $16.5M in February On July 30, the fame-hungry influencer candidly revealed she's been leaning on her therapist to cope with all the change she's been experiencing Olivia confessed in her YouTube vlog: 'It's no surprise therapy helped me a lot in my early 20s. I feel like it's given me so many of the tools I have now, especially I've been feeling this way with so much change in my own life happening like moving to Paris and then there's more big changes for me happening at the end of this year' In 2021, Giannulli promised to 'donate a percentage of my [Google] AdSense on all videos going forward' to a mystery charity that she never, ever named. The content creator has many lucrative paid partnerships with brands like BetterHelp, Color Wow Hair, Olaplex, Michael Kors, Reebok, MERIT Beauty, Bondi Sands, Living Proof, and David Yurman. Back in 2020, the 61-year-old Full House alum and her second husband Mossimo Giannulli pled guilty to paying a $500K bribe to ensure Olivia and her 26-year-old sister Bella would be accepted into USC. The Giannulli sisters even pretended to be rowing recruits by posing for fake crew photographs as part of their applications, which proved they were culpable in their parents' conspiracy to commit mail fraud/money laundering. Lori served nearly two months at the FCI Dublin in California in 2020, and she paid a $150K fine and performed 150 hours of community service. The 62-year-old Mossimo founder served five months at FCI Lompoc in California in 2020-2021, and he paid a $250K fine and performed 250 hours of community service. Olivia attempted to do damage control with a tone deaf appearance on Facebook Watch's Red Table Talk in 2020. Back in 2020, the 61-year-old Full House alum (2-L, pictured in 2018) and her second husband Mossimo Giannulli (2-R) pled guilty to paying a $500K bribe to ensure Olivia and her 26-year-old sister Bella (R) would be accepted into USC The Giannulli sisters even pretended to be rowing recruits by posing for fake crew photographs as part of their applications, which proved they were culpable in their parents' conspiracy to commit mail fraud/money laundering Lori served nearly two months at the FCI Dublin in California in 2020, and the 62-year-old Mossimo designer served five months at FCI Lompoc in California in 2020-2021 (pictured in 2019) Giannulli blatantly contradicted herself to host Jada Pinkett Smith by saying she first 'felt so ashamed and hid for four months' and then later said she first 'didn't really understand what's wrong with this.' 'In the bubble that I grew up in, a lot of kids' parents were donating to schools,' the privileged socialite defended. 'It's not and it's not right but it was happening. So at first I was like, "I don't really understand what's wrong with this. I was like, "this is what everybody does and my parents work really hard."' Sylvester Stallone has opened the doors to his splashy $35M mansion in Florida. The coastal property, which was built in 2014, can be seen in the September/October issue of Veranda magazine. The 79-year-old Tulsa King star purchased the Palm Beach property four years ago with his model wife Jennifer Flavin but they moved in only two years ago. There are seven bedrooms with 10 full and two half bathrooms in the two-story main residence and two guesthouses. The backyard has a lot to offer: a keyhole-shaped pool, sandy beach, and a view of the water. His neighbors are Jon Bon Jovi, Rod Stewart, Howard Stern and Rush Limbaugh. Sylvester Stallone has opened the doors to his splashy $35M mansion in Florida. The 79-year-old Tulsa King star purchased the Palm Beach property four years ago with his model wife Jennifer Flavin but they moved in only two years ago; seen in 2024 The coastal property which was built in 2014 can be seen in September/October issue of Veranda magazine The property is the only home in Palm Beach with access to a private beach, according to the outlet. Famed interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who has worked with the Kardashians, did the decorating. What he came up with was 'laid-back glamour,' Veranda said. Bullard wanted 'a loungy vibe' as well. Flavin said the home needed to be large to fit them and their three daughters: they have Sophia, 28, Sistine, 27, and Scarlet, 23. The Rambo actor is also dad to two sons with ex-wife Sasha Czack: Seargeoh, 44, and Sage, who died in July 2012 at 36. The home also had to house Stallone's vast art collection. 'I consider it like a wardrobe,' he said of his art collection. 'With art, you can take a piece that you've become...maybe not blase about, but you're not exactly overwhelmed by it anymore. 'You move that piece to another room now you're invigorated! It's like furniture: messing around, moving it around, constantly restimulating our minds.' There are seven bedrooms with 10 full and two half bathrooms in the two-story main residence and two guesthouses The backyard has a lot to offer: a keyhole-shaped pool, sandy beach, and a view of the water. His neighbors are Jon Bon Jovi, Rod Stewart, Howard Stern and Rush Limbaugh Flavin wanted a warm feeling. 'I've always made every house we've ever had a home,' she said. 'I don't care if someone spills something. I can replace the rug or get it cleaned. 'We have three dogs and a cat and lots of children nothing we own is precious.' She added, 'Our family is precious, but the material things are not precious.' Stallone and Flavin reportedly sold their Hidden Hills, California property in 2023 for $17million, according to Robb Report. Before that they lived in a Beverly Park mansion. The actor sold that dwelling to Adele for a reported $58million. Stallone and Flavin originally listed it for $110 million. This comes after Stallone joined a coalition of Hollywood unions and industry leaders to urge Donald Trump to support tax incentives aimed at revitalizing the movie and TV business. Famed interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, who has worked with the Kardashians, did the decorating. What he came up with was 'laid-back glamour,' Veranda said. Bullard wanted 'a loungy vibe' as well The actor was appointed by Trump alongside big-screen veteran Jon Voight, 86 a longtime supporter of U.S. President Trump as 'special ambassadors' to Hollywood. But they have also joined the unions group to appeal for help from the U.S. President. It includes the Motion Picture Association (MPA), SAG-AFTRA, the Writers Guild of America, the Directors Guild of America, and they have sent Trump a letter to the president advocating for the reinstatement and expansion of specific tax provisions. The note focuses on three key tax measures: the extension of Section 181, which allows immediate expensing of up to $15 million in production costs (or $20 million for productions in certain areas); the revival of Section 199, which provided a deduction for domestic production activities; and the reauthorization of Section 461, permitting companies to carry back net operating losses to offset prior year tax liabilities. Luisa Zissman took to Instagram on Thursday to post a defiant bikini snap after being branded 'malnourished' by skinny-shamers. The Apprentice star, 38, previously hit back at critics who had commented on a holiday selfie of her posing in a two-piece. Refusing to let the trolls dampen her spirits, Luisa uploaded another bikini photo where she proudly showed off her toned figure. She looked incredible in a white balconette bikini as she flashed a beaming smile at the camera. Alongside the post, she wrote: 'Strong Girls Club.' It comes just hours after Luisa launched a scathing attack on critics who commented on her weight after a bikini snap. Luisa Zissman took to Instagram on Thursday to post a defiant bikini snap after being branded 'malnourished' by skinny-shamers. The Apprentice star, 38, previously hit back at critics who had commented on a holiday selfie of her posing in a two-piece Following a barrage of criticism, the mother-of-three hit back at the 'skinny shamers', as she raged about the fact that the NHS is being drained by obesity and insisted she is 'strong and healthy' despite accusations from followers. In her attack, she penned: 'Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties' and insisted her body is the result of 'energetic, health and mostly clean living'. In a further display of defiance, Luisa wrote: 'If you got off your as*es and stopped shoving sh*t in your mouths you wouldn't be as fat and fat wouldn't be normal. Just because the majority of people are overweight does NOT mean it's healthy.' Luisa left little to the imagination in the shot, where she posed in a monochrome bikini with underwire cups and thick black straps. The star, who shot to fame on The Apprentice in 2013, cocked one leg in the image to make the most of her lithe limbs while also showing her taut stomach. She then added the simple caption: 'Endless summer of fun', before being met with the shocking comments from a slew of enraged and concerned followers. A number of Instagram users penned: 'I mean this genuinely, and I'm no Greek god but you genuinely look unhealthy and very malnourished... 'Appreciate you feel good and happy but younger girls watching and aspiring may follow suit and this isn't good for anyone It comes just hours after Luisa launched a scathing attack on critics who commented on her weight In her attack, she penned: 'Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties' and insisted her body is the result of 'energetic, health and mostly clean living' She also lashed out at accusations of Photoshop - insisting her image was all natural 'No hate at all as you're a diamond but this culture of ultra slim is a concern... Babe always thought you were fit, but a little tooooooo slim my love xxx... Could do with a good meal. May I suggest a Greggs steak bake followed by a Vanilla slice... 'See you just right... Mean this in the nicest way possible, but losing too much weight can age your face and you don't want that... You need a good feed girl... Jests Christ you look ill!!!' Jumping to her defence, This Morning and body confidence advocate Ashley James wrote: 'Looking at the comments - normalise not discussing people's weight'. In the face of a number of comments, Luisa penned: 'This is MY Instagram page. what a stupid remark I'm on holiday and have posted a selfie like millions of other ppl do. Just cause I'm fit, slim and healthy everyone has an issue... 'And the issue is they cannot be arsed to have the dedication and discipline to a healthy lifestyle and exercise like I do... 'This isn't photoshopped at all thank you very much it has a Los Angeles filter on it from stories and that's it which changes the colour slightly nothing else... Luisa spoke proudly of her fitness prowess in the comments, something she frequently showcases on Instagram A host of commenters shared vile comments criticising her looks 'Imagine me going around calling out every overweight person I saw, might start doing that give ppl taste of their own medicine.' One Instagram user queried: 'Difference is you are flaunting it . You know your skinny you know you don't have love handles and you know you will cause people to comment on your body! Bravo for the clout'. Luisa was quick to hit back: 'Do you say that when other 'bigger' people post holiday pics? Just because I'm fit and healthy you don't think I should post? ... She later took to her story to write: 'The comments on this holiday bikini pic. Imagine I went round calling of you biscuit eating McDonald's loving lazy people fatties. My body is a result of my lifestyle which is energetic, health and mostly clean living.... 'If you got off your as*es and stopped shoving sh*t in your mouths you wouldn't be as fat and fat wouldn't be normal... 'Just because the majority of people are overweight does NOT mean it's healthy. Shocking that when people see a healthy body with a healthy BMI in a healthy weight range they think it's not normal. Luisa shot to fame on The Apprentice in 2013 And no, I'm not sorry for my comments it's TRUE. I'm stronger than most of you mo*fos, I can do endless press ups, pulls ups, I lift weights... 'I can do sit ups until the cows come home and all you can do is comment that I'm unhealthy when you're craving Greggs at 8am when your lazy a*s wakes up.... 'So go f*ck yourselves. The world is a sad place when everyone is normalising being a fat b*****d and having your organs surrounded by layers of fat is normal. OBESITY IS THE NHS BIGGEST COST. Then you all moan you can't get a doctors appt.' Luisa has spoken in the past about pressures to lose weight and blasted stars for 'promoting thinspiration'. In 2014, she hit out at Nicole Richie and Victoria Beckham for encouraging fans to slim down, writing: '[It] is so irresponsible, especially to vulnerable teens growing up and acclimatising to their own changing shape. 'I have starved myself to be thin, shrinking down to a small size 6. On reflection, it leaves me devastated to think I felt I had to do that to be happy.' Michaela Coel has revealed she has undergone the process of freezing her eggs because she 'would love to have a family'. The Marvel star, 37, said freezing her eggs is the 'only way' she will have a family but she isn't going to go 'crazy' if she doesn't have children. Michaela has been in a relationship with boyfriend Spencer Hewett since 2023 and also opened up about how the pair met on celebrity dating app Raya. The Black Earth Rising star revealed she 'wasn't thinking about kids at 33' when she met Spencer as she was busy 'enjoying life' and focusing on her career. Speaking to British Vogue about undergoing the process of freezing her eggs, she said: 'That's the only way I'm going to do it. I would love to have a family. 'I'm also not going to go crazy if I don't, because I believe the world is such a mystery, bro. If I don't have a family, it's not the end of the world. I'm still going to be here breathing.' Michaela Coel has revealed she has undergone the process of freezing her eggs as she 'would love to have a family' The Marvel star, 37, said freezing her eggs is the 'only way' she will have a family but she isn't going to go 'crazy' if she doesn't have children Michaela went on to discuss racial biases and how 'dating apps hate Black women' but gushed over her partner Spencer being 'loyal and funny'. She continued: 'He's very sweet. He's very smart. He's very loyal. He's very funny, makes me feel comfortable. 'Social dating apps hate Black women. I think that, historically, media hates Black women. And that's not just here, you know? I think there's a recognition bias and if you're used to seeing white faces more, you favour them, and we know this. And across the globe, we are more accustomed to seeing white faces.' It comes after Michaela admitted she has PTSD following her experience of racism at school. Speaking to The Telegraph's Arts supplement in 2023, she spoke about having a 's***ty time' as a black student at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 2009. An independent review into discrimination experienced by students in 2020, found evidence of a racist culture in which multiple black students were called the N-word and 'suppressed' by white tutors. Being told she has a page dedicated to her on the college's website, she said: 'I'm not going to lie to you, I've got so much PTSD from my time in drama school I've never looked back.' When asked if she would like the college to remove her image from the website, she said the answer is not an easy one. Michaela has been in a relationship with boyfriend Spencer Hewett since 2023 and also opened up about how the pair met on celebrity dating app Raya; pictured April 2024 The Black Earth Rising star revealed she 'wasn't thinking about kids at 33' when she met Spencer as she was busy 'enjoying life' and focusing on her career 'Its very difficult', she said. 'When you put somebody's picture on the school's thing, it makes people want to go there... and I don't really want to make people do anything or stop people [from] doing anything. 'Sh**ty as my time there was, I love the person I am today and I am a collection of every experience I've had, both fortunate and unfortunate. So do I regret going there? That's a complex question.' A spokesperson for the school said: 'Guildhall School apologises unreservedly for the racism experienced by Michaela Coel and other alumni whilst they were studying at the School. 'The experiences they have shared are appalling and unacceptable. We have since undertaken a sustained programme of action to address and dismantle long-standing systemic racism within the Acting Programme, including commissioning an external report into historic racism and a comprehensive and ongoing process of staff training and reflection. 'We have also undertaken a significant redevelopment of our Acting curriculum, including a departmental staff restructure, so that our teaching and learning culture prioritises inclusivity, representation and wellbeing. 'We understand that this work is long-term and will require sustained commitment to build a culture that is inclusive and equitable for everyone.' See the full feature in the September issue of British Vogue , available via digital download and on newsstands from Tuesday 19th August. Nick Viall's wife Natalie Joy has suffered another devastating miscarriage. The Bachelor alum, 44, revealed his wife endured her third pregnancy loss this year on the latest episode of his podcast, The Viall Files. Natalie, 26, who ordinarily appears on the podcast with her spouse, was absent for this particular episode as her husband shared the loss with listeners. 'As you can see, Natalie is not with us. There's no really easy way to talk about this... Sadly, Natalie experienced another miscarriage. It is her third this year, our third this year... There's no really good way to say it, it f**king sucks.' 'Shes obviously at home resting, healing, both physically and emotionally,' he said. The couple share one-year-old River Rose Viall, a daughter who was born just two months before their Georgia wedding. Nick Viall's wife Natalie Joy has suffered another devastating miscarriage The Bachelor alum shared the heartbreaking news on the latest episode of his podcast, The Viall Files Natalie first suffered a miscarriage in January of this year before enduring a second pregnancy loss just two months later. 'When it happens the first time, the doctors and everyone kind of acknowledge that, while terrible, this is that something that can happen and everyone's just... don't freak out, there's nothing wrong, it sadly can be a part of this process,' Nick explained. The star called their daughter an 'amazing' blessing and said they were 'very lucky' that she was a 'fairly easy' pregnancy. 'And then it happened the second time, you know, obviously we have a lot of amazing blessings in our life, first and foremost being River, minus like some morning sickness and things like that, we were very lucky to have a fairly easy pregnancy... really no complications, which was such an amazing blessing. 'Despite what's going on right now with us, our doctor keeps reminding us that that is the best sign of our future ability to grow our family.' Now the couple, who have been together since 2020, are experiencing 'a little bit of uneasiness' in light of the back-to-back miscarriages and are now undergoing tests to determine if there's any issue. 'But right now obviously there's a little bit of uneasiness. It's far less normal to have two and three back to back. 'Now we're kind of in that very scary process of running tests and finding out more about ourselves, and it's like this weird thing of like you want them to find something, but you don't want them to find something. Natalie, who ordinarily appears on the podcast with her spouse, was absent for this particular episode as her husband shared the loss with listeners The couple share one-year-old daughter River Rose Viall 'Because if they find something, you don't know what that means. We're in this kind of very uncharted territory of fact finding. Which sucks,' he added. Nick said he was no trying to 'strike' a balance of mourning the loss while also caring for his family. 'I think for the dads out there, you're trying to strike this balance between being grieving yourself but also just keeping life together and keeping the family going,' he said. Nick said he decided to reveal the miscarriage in order to be 'transparent' with their audience after receiving several messages from concerned fans. 'I really just wanted to be transparent with you guys 'cause I know she wasn't there yesterday, people started to notice, and we're already getting messages with like a lot of concern, so overall Natalie is doing OK physically and healing and she's OK in that respect and emotionally, we're currently dealing with that,' he said. While Nick said Natalie was experiencing signs indicating this latest pregnancy would be a healthy one, they held back from getting excited. The star called their daughter an 'amazing' blessing The couple have been together since 2020 'When you're pregnant, as women who know this, and with Natalie experience morning sickness her first pregnancy, the one thing that's always the "but it's a really good sign!" because when you have these symptoms, it's usually, they tell you, it's a sign of a healthy pregnancy, your hormones are changing. 'And this time around she was experiencing some of those similar symptoms... we came in with a lot of uneasiness about getting excited. 'It felt like a lot of things were going in the right direction. We had our first doctor visit, still thinking everything was going great, and expecting this time to be different and sadly it wasn't. So that was particularly hard.' While it's 'easy' for Nick to maintain his expectations about the pregnancy until it's 'safe' to do so, he acknowledged that for his wife and other moms-to-be, 'it's impossible not to feel that connection with your child as soon as you find out you're pregnant.' 'It's tough,' he said. 'It's been a whirlwind and you know we're trying to get through it as a family, and we will.' 'I think part of this challenge is still appreciating what we have, and having River, and life goes on,' he said, adding they have many blessings in their life. 'We know that and feeling like it's OK to move on and laugh,' he continued. 'Even guilt around me being here, it's all very confusing in how you're supposed to mourn something like this.... we appreciate your support.' Aubrey Plaza is excited by the 'challenge' of playing Heidi Fleiss in an upcoming biopic. The 41-year-old actress is set to the play the former madam in The Heidi Fleiss Story, and Aubrey has revealed that she's looking forward to the playing the 'icon'. 'I've been on this track for a while. I got it in my head that I wanted to play her a couple of years ago and I've never played a real-life person before,' she told IndieWire. 'It's a different kind of scale, challenge, that I'm really excited about, and I just think she's an incredible person, incredible character.' Heidi previously ran an upscale, Los Angeles-based prostitution ring and is often referred to as the Hollywood Madam. And Aubrey thinks her story will make for a fascinating movie. The actress explained: 'The story is insane. She's done something that probably nobody else has ever done, and she's still going. I think she's the ultimate bad*** icon and she deserves the royal treatment. We shall give it to her.' Aubrey Plaza is excited by the 'challenge' of playing Heidi Fleiss in an upcoming biopic. The 41-year-old actress is set to the play the former madam in The Heidi Fleiss Story, and Aubrey has revealed that she's looking forward to the playing the 'icon' This comes after Plaza's husband Baena died earlier this year; seen in 2014 Asked if she's ever had the chance to talk to Heidi, Aubrey replied: 'I have not spoken with her, [but] I hope so. I hope to make a little trip to her place in the desert at some point. Spiritually I feel her. I've heard she's very excited about it. We're in early stages.' Aubrey has already enjoyed huge success in her career, starring in movies such as Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Happiest Season and Black Bear. But the actress previously revealed that her success has been fuelled by rejection. The Hollywood star told NME: 'Auditioning always felt like this f*****-up game that I was playing with life. Like playing the lottery or something. 'I think I've always been very fuelled by rejection. It only made me want it more, because I think I just had that thing inside of me that's like: 'I wanna be in the club that I'm not in' or whatever that is; 'I want the thing that I can't have, or the thing that I don't have. And if you tell me that I'm not good enough, I'll just find a way to prove you wrong somehow.' Aubrey has starred in a wide variety of film and TV projects over the years, including thrillers, political satires and sitcoms. But the actress also loves the idea of starring in big-budget projects. She said: 'I love blockbusters. I think I'm always nostalgic for big movies that are also good which is a really hard thing to make. But when you do, you'll never forget it. Those kinds of movies can change the world.' The White Lotus star is not only leading the film as Fleiss, but also producing marking her first major role since the heartbreaking loss of her husband Jeff Baena, who died by suicide on January 3. Speaking to IndieWire, Aubrey shared: 'I've been on this track for a while. I got it in my head that I wanted to play her a couple of years ago and I've never played a real-life person before. 'It's a different kind of scale, challenge, that I'm really excited about, and I just think she's an incredible person, incredible character.' Seen on Wednesday Heidi previously ran an upscale, Los Angeles-based prostitution ring and is often referred to as the Hollywood Madam. Seen in 1993 As casting news spread online, fans quickly took to social media to point out the striking physical resemblance between Aubrey and Heidi. 'Wow, she looks eerily similar to Heidi,' one fan wrote on X. Fleiss rose to infamy in the early 1990s when she was revealed to be running a high-end prostitution ring in Los Angeles that catered to wealthy clients, including celebrities, Hollywood executives, and powerful businessmen. Known as the 'Hollywood Madam,' she allegedly inherited the operation from her former lover and mentor, convicted madam Elizabeth Adams, also known as 'Madam Alex,' and quickly expanded it into a multi-million-dollar enterprise. Fleiss's empire came crashing down in June 1993, when she was arrested and later indicted on multiple charges including pandering, tax evasion, and money laundering, with prosecutors accusing her of laundering over $1.5 million through shell companies and false bookkeeping. During her sensational trial, salacious details emerged about her client listrumored to include A-list namesthough many identities were never publicly confirmed, fueling widespread fan frenzy. Now, Plaza is stepping into the complex role of the convicted madam, bringing her signature intensity to the character of Fleiss. The casting follows a string of high-profile and critically praised performances, including roles in Ethan Coen's Honey Don't and Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. And Aubrey thinks her story will make for a fascinating movie. The actress explained: 'The story is insane. She's done something that probably nobody else has ever done, and she's still going. I think she's the ultimate bad*** icon and she deserves the royal treatment. We shall give it to her.' Seen in 2003 She also earned acclaim for her work in Sundance favorite My Old Ass and HBO's The White Lotus Season 2. Up next, she'll star alongside Susan Sarandon in The Accompanist, a buzzy indie drama marking the directorial debut of The Office alum Zack Woods. In 2024, an autopsy report from the L.A. County Medical Examiner, obtained by DailyMail.com, shed light on the circumstances surrounding Baena's tragic death. At the time, he had been living in New York, where his body was discovered on January 3. According to the report, the Life After Beth filmmaker had been going through 'marital difficulties' in the months leading up to his death and had been receiving therapy. Though Plaza's name was redacted, the documents noted that she had spoken to Baena the night before he died and had previously voiced concern for his mental state. The medical examiner confirmed that Baena had no drugs or alcohol in his system at the time of his passing and noted that Plaza believed he was still alive on the morning of January 3, as he had texted her earlier that day. The report indicated that a dog walker discovered Baena's body. Shortly after his death, a representative for Plaza said in a statement obtained by DailyMail.com: 'This is an unimaginable tragedy. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has offered support. Please respect our privacy during this time.' Baena, who graduated with a film degree from New York University, got hands-on experience with major filmmakers when he worked as a production assistant for Robert Zemeckis and an assistant editor for David O. Russell. Teddi Mellencamp turned to her fans for advice Thursday as she opened up about struggling with immunotherapy amid her stage four cancer battle. The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 44, shared an emotional video on Instagram, showing herself in bed with her shaven head on full display as she detailed the intense effects of the cancer treatment that harnesses the bodys immune system to fight the disease. 'For all of you who have gone through immunotherapy, did you guys have severe anxiety?' she asked. 'Just on random days for no apparent reason? Im sitting here full of anxiety.' She continued: 'Is this common? What have you guys done to help make you feel better? Looking for any positive advice.' She reinforced her concern in the posts caption: 'For anybody whos gone through immunotherapy, what did you do to help combat the severe anxiety that takes over sometimes? Or any other advice to help yourself feel a bit better?' The message comes after Mellencamp revealed she discovered now-estranged husband Edwin Arroyaves affair with a mutual friend just days before her 2017 debut on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Teddi Mellencamp turned to her fans for advice Thursday as she opened up about struggling with immunotherapy amid her stage four cancer battle The former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star, 44, shared an emotional video on Instagram, showing herself in bed with her shaven head on full display as she detailed the intense effects of the cancer treatment that harnesses the bodys immune system to fight the disease During a recent appearance on The Jamie Kern Lima Show, Teddi opened up about her marriage, pausing divorce proceedings amid her cancer battle, and admitted her diagnosis felt like payback for her own infidelities, which occurred after Edwins. Teddi, who remained on Bravos RHOBH until 2020, said the discovery left her broken and forced her to beg him to stay. It was with somebody I knew. I mean, I'm not saying that I didn't make huge mistakes, and in my marriage post that, but that broke me, she said. That was the first time in my life where I was like, how will I show up every day with a smile on my face and raise these kids, and be this perfect wife and start a television show and become somebody that people like or they think are funny? The mother-of-three, who shares Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, 5, with Edwin, explained how the betrayal affected her first season on Housewives, forcing her to fake her way through filming to protect her kids. People say, Oh you seem kind of quiet or you were kind of passivebut thats not really who you are. I wasnt faking who I was, I was coping. I was so scared that someone was going to find out and ruin my familys life. Teddi filed for divorce from her husband of 13 years on November 1, 2024, citing irreconcilable differences. She publicly revealed her cancer diagnosis in February 2025, pausing the proceedings. The message comes after Mellencamp revealed she discovered now-estranged husband Edwin Arroyaves affair with a mutual friend just days before her 2017 debut on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills; (pictured with Edwin in 2019) The mother-of-three, who shares Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, 5, with Edwin, explained how the betrayal affected her first season on Housewives, forcing her to fake her way through filming to protect her kids; (pictured on the show) During a recent appearance on The Jamie Kern Lima Show, Teddi opened up about her marriage, pausing divorce proceedings amid her cancer battle Despite everything, the pair have maintained a close and amicable co-parenting relationship. Elsewhere in the interview, Mellencamp finally addressed the alleged affair with her horse trainer, Simon Schroeder, which made headlines in late 2024. I've never talked about it at all, just because of the kids, and I've never wanted anybody to have a guarantee whether it happened or didn't happen, she said. But what I can say is, did I do things that hurt other people? Yes. As her eyes welled with tears, the reality star reflected on the lingering pain of the situation, without confirming or denying the cheating scandal. To this day, does it still hurt my heart and I wonder if that's why I got cancer? Yes, like it was my payback, she said, referencing the cancer battle after her melanoma spread to her brain and lungs. HEDDA, Ustinov Studio, Bath Theatre Royal Rating: A GREAT actor can make us care about almost anybody. But Lily Allen, in her latest stage venture at Baths tiny Ustinov Studio, has to cope with one of the dodgiest characters in all of drama. We are talking about Hedda Gabler, the alpha-narcissist creation of 19th-century Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen. Hedda is an entitled madam who, in Matthew Dunsters modernised version, has the airs and graces of a spoilt supermodel. Fitted out with a modern backstory Hedda is now the daughter of a late musician allegedly swindled by Spotify, and she moans that she misses her daddy and having it all shes also being dumped into middle class suburban poverty by marrying a sweet but dull professor of something very obscure. Set in the West Country (or f***ing Somerset as one character curses), we are in the realms of deep self-absorption. A GREAT actor can make us care about almost anybody. But Lily Allen, in latest stage venture at Baths tiny Ustinov Studio, has to cope with one of the dodgiest characters in all of drama Matthew Dunsters modernised version is fully crewed with understudies and clearly hoping for a West End transfer. And Allens name will surely sell tickets Heddas ex, Jasper (Tom Austen, of Grantchester), returns, weeping that he doesnt want to be his partners version of himself, but lacks the guts to be his own version of himself. And if you can unravel that, this show may well be for you. Heddas thickly-bearded husband George (Ciaran Owens) is unsettlingly reminiscent of Allens recently ditched real-life ex-husband David Harbour (Stranger Things). The difference is that George has had a personality bypass and she is without motivation for marrying this impecunious deadbeat whos pathetically jealous of her ex. Nor is it clear why George is marrying Hedda a woman whos very touchy, but not at all feely (around him at any rate). And yet, even though she belittles and assaults an old friend, and urges her ex to shoot himself, we never really fear what Allens Hedda is capable of. Other actors get more traction out of Dunsters hyper-realistic dialogue, rooted in tortured inertia. Austen oozes rizz as the chronically intense Jasper, who is an expert on the future (albeit not his own). Julia Chan as his new love (and Heddas old friend), Taya, is an alarmingly vulnerable addict on the brink of a nervous breakdown. Imogen Stubbs is emotionally urgent as a gushy aunt, while Brendan Coyle (Downtons Mr Bates) is a soporifically insouciant MP and sugar daddy to Hedda. But where she may get away with playing a motivelessly malignant character in this theatrical boutique, Shaftesbury Avenue will be a steeper test of fan loyalty Hedda is not without quality, but it is almost entirely without empathy. No actor can survive that. Thankfully, Najla Andrade puts the neurotic swamp in perspective as the bashful Brazilian housekeeper, fearful of everyones volatile mental state. Anna Fleischles set design, meanwhile, embodies the plays soullessness, with a minimalist interior that looks like an upmarket funeral parlour with floor to ceiling net curtains. Dunsters production is fully crewed with understudies and clearly hoping for a West End transfer. And Allens name will surely sell tickets. But where she may get away with playing a motivelessly malignant character in this theatrical boutique, Shaftesbury Avenue will be a steeper test of fan loyalty. Hedda is not without quality, but it is almost entirely without empathy. No actor can survive that. The comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez has been arrested at a restaurant in Burbank, California, after police allegedly found drugs in his car. He was arrested on Monday after officers searched the vehicle and allegedly found Xanax, as well as what they suspected was fentanyl, police told NBC4 Los Angeles. Police said Rodriguez denied that the drugs reportedly discovered during his latest arrest belonged to him. This comes after the 70-year-old comic was arrested in March for drug possession, though he also denied at the time that the drugs belonged to him. The Daily Mail has contacted Rodriguez's representatives to request comment but hasn't yet received a response. Officers arrived at the scene of an Islands restaurant in the LA County city after they were reportedly called to make a welfare check on a woman accompanying Rodriguez. The comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez, 70, has been at a restaurant in Burbank, California, after officers allegedly found drugs in his car, police told NBC4 Los Angeles on Wednesday; pictured January 23 in LA He was arrested on Monday after officers searched the vehicle and allegedly found Xanax, as well as what they suspected was fentanyl. Police said Rodriguez denied that the drugs reportedly discovered during his latest arrest belonged to him; seen in 2021 in West Hollywood According to police, Rodriguez and the woman were driving away from the restaurant when they arrived, but they allegedly stopped to speak with officers. They reportedly arrested the woman on suspicion of drug possession, which led police to search the car before arresting Rodriguez on suspicion of misdemeanor possession of narcotics. According to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department records, Rodriguez was booked shortly after 10 p.m. on Monday and released after 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning with a citation. Back in March, the film and television star was arrested on misdemeanor drug possession charges after police initially pulled him over for a traffic violation. But Rodriguez denied the charges in a statement to TMZ at the time, and he claimed the traffic stop was racially motivated. He said he had been sleeping in the passenger seat while a female friend was driving the car, and after police pulled them over an officer allegedly slapped him in the face to wake him up. Rodriguez accused the officer of being on a 'power trip,' and he claimed the drugs allegedly discovered by police during the stop were not his and instead belonged to the friend behind the wheel. He claimed that the woman also told police that the drugs belonged to her during the stop. Officers were reportedly called to an Islands restaurant in Burbank for a wellness check on a woman accompanying Rodriguez. She was arrested, and police then arrested him after searching their car; pictured in May 2024 in Pasadena, Calif. According to Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department records, Rodriguez was booked shortly after 10 p.m. on Monday and released after 6 a.m. on Tuesday morning with a citation; pictured at the Laugh Factory's free Thanksgiving dinner in 2021 in West Hollywood The comedian was arrested for misdemeanor drug possession after a traffic stop in March, but charges were later dropped. Rodriguez claimed the stop was racially motivated and accused an officer of slapping him in the face; seen in September in Pasadena In April, the Burbank City Attorney confirmed that his office had dropped the charges against Rodriguez due to insufficient evidence. In response to the development, Rodriguez' lawyer Bobby Samini said in a statement: 'My client commends the City Attorney for their determination in this matter. It is without doubt that Mr. Rodriguez was innocent and never possessed any controlled substance. 'Mr. Rodriguez maintained his innocence and rejected the assertion by Burbank PD that he committed any crime,' Samini continued. 'He is grateful for the support he received from his fans, family and friends throughout this difficult time.' His recent run-ins with the law come amid a challenging period for the comedian. In November of last year, Rodriguez's longtime friend, Donald Serrato, died from natural causes while staying at Rodriguezs Los Angeles home. Additionally, in 2021, the comedian underwent quadruple bypass surgery. Serrato had sold his own home in Torrance and was staying at Rodriguez' residence in the Los Angeles area for some days before he planned to move to Montana at the time of his death. Law enforcement sources said the authorities believe Serrato died of natural causes, and do not suspect drugs or foul play were involved. The performer's arrests come amid a difficult period for him. In March, he suffered a tragedy when his longtime friend, Donald Serrato, died from natural causes while staying at his LA home. The comedy also underwent quadruple bypass surgery in 2021; seen in 1998 Rodriguez is a popular stand-up comedian who is also known for briefly hosting The Newlywed Game, as well as appearing in films, including Clint Eastwood's thriller Blood Work, the Will Smithstarring biopic Ali and the comedy Rat Race, among others; seen in 1994 in LA His son is a famous skateboarder also called Paul Rodriguez (right), who goes by P-Rod on social media and boats over a million followers on Instagram At the time, Rodriguez said he felt Serrato's alleged heavy drinking and smoking as well as his grief over two bereavements in his family may have contributed to his demise. Rodriguez, who was born in Sinaloa before immigrating to Compton with his family, has been a comedian for more than four decades. He is a regular on the stand-up circuit, and is one of the elite group of comedians whose photos are on the wall of the iconic Comedy Store in Los Angeles. Early in his career, Rodriguez even led the cast of his own sitcom a.k.a. Pablo in 1984, thought it was canceled after six episodes. Over the years, fans have seen him on top television programs including The Golden Girls, Touched By An Angel and The Twilight Zone. He is also known for briefly hosting The Newlywed Game in 1988, as well as appearing in several feature films, including Clint Eastwood's thriller Blood Work, the Oscar-nominated Will Smithstarring biopic Ali and the ensemble comedy Rat Race, among others. He has also lent his voice to cartoons like King Of The Hill, Dora The Explorer, The Proud Family and the animated film Cats & Dogs: The Return Of Kitty Galore. His son is a famous skateboarder also called Paul Rodriguez, who goes by P-Rod on social media and boats over a million followers on Instagram. Republicans are leading the charge against alcohol consumption in the US. Across the US, drinking rates have plunged to their lowest level in 90 years. Only 54 percent of adults said they had a drink last month, according to Gallup data. That's the lowest level since the polling group began collecting the figures in 1939. Only 46 percent of Republican voters reported having any alcohol in all of last year, a one third drop from 2023. By comparison Democrat drinkers only decline by five percent in the same period. 'Americans' drinking habits are shifting amid the medical world's reappraisal of alcohol's health effects,' Gallup said of the findings. 'After decades of relative steadiness in the proportion of US adults who drink, [we have] documented three consecutive years of decline in the US drinking rate as research supporting the 'no amount of alcohol is safe' message mounts.' Only 54 percent of American adults said they had a drink last month Experts are at a loss to explain the fall in alcohol consumption among Republicans in particular. However, key figures within the party and current administration have been clear about their sobriety and thoughts on alcohol. Most notably President Trump has sworn off alcohol after the tragic death of his brother who died from alcoholism. Health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, the architect of the 'Make America Healthy Again' movement, has also been open about his sobriety. Influential figures within the MAGA camp, such as Tucker Carlson, have also promoted abstinence. Some researchers have suggested it could be part of a broader shift in demographic and voting patterns. 'Republicans made a big push in toss-up states [such as] Arizona and Pennsylvania in 2024 to register more Republicans, especially with far-right Christians, Mormons and Amish,' Mark Will-Weber, author of a book on US presidents' drinking habits, told the Financial Times. 'These religious groups abstain from alcohol.' U.S. wineries sold 377 million cases in 2023, down from 445 million in 2021 Well-known Kentucky whisky business Garrard County Distilling collapsed in the spring The decline in alcohol consumption has contributed to several high profile closures of American whiskey distilleries. Campari-owned Wild Turkey saw an 8 percent decline in US sales during the first half of 2025, while Jack Daniels dropped 6 percent year-over-year. In January, Jack Daniel's parent company Brown-Forman announced layoffs affecting 12 percent of its workforce and the closure of a major barrel-making facility in Louisville. It's not just whisky that is suffering as a result of a consumer pullback. The departure of a wholesale giant from the largest wine market in the US is also a warning sign for an industry which is already struggling. Two of America's biggest fast-casual chains are turning to robots to make your lunch. Chipotle and Cava have jointly invested $25 million in Hyphen, a California robotics company that builds 'digital makelines' to assemble bowls and salads without human hands. The setup looks normal to customers. At the counter, staff scoop toppings from bins to serve walk-in diners face-to-face. But below the counter, hidden from view, Hyphens robot glides bowls along a track, stopping under each bin so precise portions drop in for online or app orders. The machines can't roll burritos at Chipotle or assemble pita wraps at Cava, but they can quietly churn out a steady stream of burrito bowls, salads, and grain bowls without human hands. 'It's a new way to enhance how we bring our Mediterranean hospitality to life,' the company's CEO, Brett Schulman, said to the Daily Mail. 'This investment is about enhancing the human experience, never replacing it.' The company told the Daily Mail that its robots won't have any impact on hiring or wages. But that has not been the case in the rest of the chain restaurant industry. Many other brands are turning to robots to help with rising costs. Cava is partnering with Chipotle on an investment in food preparation tech startup Hyphen Restaurant bosses are fighting rising menu prices after years of hikes caused by higher food and labor costs. Chains, including Burger King, have already ramped up the rollout of digital ordering kiosks to cut the number of cashiers needed in California restaurants. Wendy's, IHOP, Chipotle, and Sweetgreen are also integrating AI into their operations. Yum Brands, Taco Bell's owner, launched AI voice recognition in 500 drive-thrus. Chipotle has launched another innovation: the Autocado, a robotic machine that peeled, sliced and pitted avocados. Several other chains are in talks with Hyphen to adopt its systems. The push comes as California's fast-food minimum wage has jumped to $20 an hour. Meanwhile, ten other US states along with 48 cities and counties now have a minimum wage above $15 an hour. Food prices have also dramatically risen since inflation peaked over 9 percent in the summer of 2022. That has also cut into businesses' profits. Cava, the Mediterranean fast-casual chain, as entered the restaurant tech war Chipotle has two robots in its stores - the Hyphen system to produce bowls and salads and the Autocado to prepare avocadas For workers and unions who fought for years for higher pay, the industry's turn to tech is a bitter twist critics had long warned about: automation taking the jobs they fought to make livable. After California's new law came into effect in April last year, staff at Pizza Hut and Round Table said they lost their jobs after bosses said they could not afford to pay it. Meanwhile, workers also complained of getting fewer hours - and some workers have been laid off. But Cava said its robots are different. Schulman says the investment will aid its workers by making online orders, and not replace staff. 'We're always looking for ways to innovate and make life easier for our in-restaurant teams,' Cava's CEO Brett Schulman said. Cava will roll out the robot system in the next quarter. In a statement to the Daily Mail, Chipotle says it uses Hyphen to 'build bowls and salads while Chipotle employees operate the top makeline to make burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and kid's meals.' CT Real Estate Investment Trust (TSE:CRT.UN Free Report) had its price target lifted by Royal Bank Of Canada from C$16.00 to C$17.00 in a research report released on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has a sector perform rating on the real estate investment trusts stock. CRT.UN has been the topic of several other reports. National Bankshares increased their price target on shares of CT Real Estate Investment Trust from C$15.75 to C$15.95 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Scotiabank increased their price target on shares of CT Real Estate Investment Trust from C$16.00 to C$16.50 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Raymond James Financial increased their price target on shares of CT Real Estate Investment Trust from C$16.75 to C$17.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Desjardins increased their price target on shares of CT Real Estate Investment Trust from C$15.50 to C$16.50 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of C$16.42. Get CT Real Estate Investment Trust alerts: Read Our Latest Report on CRT.UN CT Real Estate Investment Trust Stock Up 0.9% CT Real Estate Investment Trust Increases Dividend Shares of CT Real Estate Investment Trust stock opened at C$15.92 on Monday. The company has a market cap of C$1.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.30, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.76 and a beta of 1.00. The companys 50 day moving average is C$15.82 and its 200 day moving average is C$15.15. CT Real Estate Investment Trust has a twelve month low of C$13.42 and a twelve month high of C$16.48. The company has a quick ratio of 0.10, a current ratio of 0.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 75.45. The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be given a dividend of $0.079 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.0%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 31st. This is a positive change from CT Real Estate Investment Trusts previous monthly dividend of $0.08. CT Real Estate Investment Trusts payout ratio is 101.09%. CT Real Estate Investment Trust Company Profile (Get Free Report) CT Real Estate Investment Trust is an unincorporated real estate investment trust that invests in retail properties across Canada. The most significant portion of properties are located in Ontario, followed by Quebec and Western Canada. The trust generates the vast majority of revenue from leasing its properties to Canadian Tire Corporation, which operates the Canadian Tire retail stores. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for CT Real Estate Investment Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CT Real Estate Investment Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Pearson (NYSE:PSO Free Report) from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note released on Monday. Several other research firms also recently weighed in on PSO. BNP Paribas raised Pearson from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Friday, June 27th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a hold rating on shares of Pearson in a report on Monday, August 4th. Get Pearson alerts: View Our Latest Stock Analysis on PSO Pearson Stock Performance Pearson Cuts Dividend Pearson stock opened at $14.52 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40, a quick ratio of 2.24 and a current ratio of 2.31. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $14.56 and a two-hundred day moving average of $15.65. The company has a market capitalization of $9.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.44, a PEG ratio of 2.43 and a beta of 0.58. Pearson has a fifty-two week low of $13.10 and a fifty-two week high of $17.90. The firm also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 22nd. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.0892 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. This represents a dividend yield of 210.0%. Pearsons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 46.81%. Institutional Inflows and Outflows A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Callan Capital LLC boosted its holdings in Pearson by 3.7% in the first quarter. Callan Capital LLC now owns 18,626 shares of the companys stock valued at $298,000 after acquiring an additional 661 shares during the last quarter. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Pearson by 6.3% in the second quarter. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 12,294 shares of the companys stock valued at $184,000 after acquiring an additional 724 shares during the last quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Pearson by 4.3% in the first quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC now owns 19,700 shares of the companys stock valued at $320,000 after acquiring an additional 816 shares during the last quarter. Choreo LLC boosted its holdings in Pearson by 7.4% in the first quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 11,939 shares of the companys stock valued at $191,000 after acquiring an additional 823 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Signaturefd LLC boosted its holdings in Pearson by 6.0% in the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 18,083 shares of the companys stock valued at $290,000 after acquiring an additional 1,027 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 2.14% of the companys stock. Pearson Company Profile (Get Free Report) Pearson plc offers educational courseware, assessments, and services in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the Asia Pacific, other European countries, and internationally. The company operates through five segments: Assessment & Qualifications, Virtual Learning, English Language Learning, Workforce Skills, and Higher Education. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Pearson Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pearson and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Boston Partners grew its position in shares of EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP Free Report) by 13.8% during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 1,202,462 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 146,230 shares during the quarter. Boston Partners holdings in EastGroup Properties were worth $211,761,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of EGP. Nuveen LLC bought a new position in shares of EastGroup Properties during the 1st quarter valued at $190,456,000. Principal Financial Group Inc. raised its holdings in EastGroup Properties by 234.7% in the 1st quarter. Principal Financial Group Inc. now owns 1,222,064 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $215,267,000 after purchasing an additional 856,971 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp raised its holdings in EastGroup Properties by 91.3% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 811,196 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $130,189,000 after purchasing an additional 387,134 shares during the period. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH bought a new position in EastGroup Properties in the 1st quarter worth $52,065,000. Finally, T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. raised its holdings in EastGroup Properties by 24.0% in the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,413,716 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $226,888,000 after purchasing an additional 273,217 shares during the period. 92.14% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get EastGroup Properties alerts: EastGroup Properties Trading Up 1.6% Shares of EastGroup Properties stock opened at $164.31 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.16, a current ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. EastGroup Properties, Inc. has a twelve month low of $137.67 and a twelve month high of $192.21. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $167.29 and a 200-day moving average price of $169.53. The firm has a market cap of $8.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 35.49, a PEG ratio of 3.29 and a beta of 0.98. EastGroup Properties Dividend Announcement EastGroup Properties ( NYSE:EGP Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $2.21 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.20 by $0.01. EastGroup Properties had a net margin of 34.85% and a return on equity of 7.29%. The firm had revenue of $177.29 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $175.80 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $2.05 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 11.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that EastGroup Properties, Inc. will post 8.94 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 15th. Investors of record on Monday, June 30th were issued a $1.40 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 30th. This represents a $5.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.4%. EastGroup Propertiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 120.95%. Analyst Ratings Changes EGP has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Wells Fargo & Company set a $215.00 target price on EastGroup Properties and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Sunday, July 13th. Wall Street Zen upgraded EastGroup Properties from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, April 27th. Truist Financial cut their price target on EastGroup Properties from $180.00 to $177.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Monday, May 5th. Barclays cut their price target on EastGroup Properties from $193.00 to $182.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. Finally, Evercore ISI raised their price objective on EastGroup Properties from $179.00 to $180.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $189.31. Get Our Latest Stock Report on EGP About EastGroup Properties (Free Report) EastGroup Properties, Inc (NYSE: EGP), a member of the S&P Mid-Cap 400 and Russell 1000 Indexes, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EGP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for EastGroup Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EastGroup Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Boston Partners grew its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Free Report) by 8.2% in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 732,953 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 55,840 shares during the quarter. Boston Partners holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. were worth $252,499,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. acquired a new position in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in the first quarter valued at $277,000. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 41.9% in the first quarter. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 305 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $105,000 after purchasing an additional 90 shares in the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 24.1% in the first quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 7,776 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,685,000 after purchasing an additional 1,508 shares in the last quarter. S Bank Fund Management Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in the first quarter valued at $473,000. Finally, National Pension Service raised its stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 13.1% in the first quarter. National Pension Service now owns 504,103 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $174,037,000 after purchasing an additional 58,382 shares in the last quarter. 85.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research analysts recently commented on AJG shares. Erste Group Bank restated a hold rating on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research note on Wednesday, July 23rd. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $326.00 to $330.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Piper Sandler upped their target price on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $352.00 to $372.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Wall Street Zen lowered Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their price objective on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $345.00 to $322.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have given a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $331.07. Insider Activity In other news, VP Scott R. Hudson sold 10,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, May 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $337.17, for a total value of $3,540,285.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president directly owned 91,175 shares in the company, valued at approximately $30,741,474.75. This trade represents a 10.33% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, insider Susan E. Pietrucha sold 13,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, May 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $344.13, for a total value of $4,645,755.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider owned 11,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,109,256.33. This trade represents a 53.06% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 25,000 shares of company stock worth $8,528,080. 1.60% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Stock Performance Shares of NYSE:AJG opened at $295.23 on Thursday. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a twelve month low of $274.25 and a twelve month high of $351.23. The firm has a market cap of $75.70 billion, a PE ratio of 41.94 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a current ratio of 1.36. The business has a fifty day moving average of $309.43 and a 200-day moving average of $322.41. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The financial services provider reported $2.33 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.36 by ($0.03). Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a net margin of 14.54% and a return on equity of 13.17%. The business had revenue of $3.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.20 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.29 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 16.0% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts predict that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 11.54 EPS for the current fiscal year. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, September 19th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 5th will be paid a $0.65 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 5th. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.9%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 36.93%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Profile (Free Report) Arthur J. Gallagher & Co engages in the provision of insurance brokerage, reinsurance brokerage, consulting, and third-party claims settlement and administration services. It operates through the following segments: Brokerage, Risk Management, and Corporate. The Brokerage segment consists of retail and wholesale insurance brokerage operations. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AJG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund cut its stake in shares of Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report) by 18.9% in the 1st quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 265,964 shares of the companys stock after selling 61,900 shares during the quarter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Citigroup were worth $18,881,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. William B. Walkup & Associates Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Citigroup by 6.2% during the 1st quarter. William B. Walkup & Associates Inc. now owns 4,285 shares of the companys stock worth $304,000 after acquiring an additional 250 shares in the last quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Citigroup by 6.0% during the 1st quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. now owns 4,863 shares of the companys stock worth $345,000 after acquiring an additional 277 shares in the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Citigroup by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 57,488 shares of the companys stock worth $4,081,000 after acquiring an additional 2,904 shares in the last quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. boosted its stake in shares of Citigroup by 132.1% during the 1st quarter. Triglav Skladi D.O.O. now owns 110,674 shares of the companys stock worth $7,857,000 after acquiring an additional 63,000 shares in the last quarter. Finally, National Pension Service boosted its stake in shares of Citigroup by 3.2% during the 1st quarter. National Pension Service now owns 3,838,451 shares of the companys stock worth $272,492,000 after acquiring an additional 119,190 shares in the last quarter. 71.72% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Citigroup alerts: Insiders Place Their Bets In other Citigroup news, Director Peter B. Henry sold 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, July 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $90.40, for a total transaction of $271,200.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 2,140 shares in the company, valued at $193,456. This trade represents a 58.37% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.08% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Citigroup Price Performance Shares of NYSE:C opened at $94.72 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 0.99, a quick ratio of 0.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.61. Citigroup Inc. has a 1 year low of $55.51 and a 1 year high of $96.90. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $87.15 and a 200 day simple moving average of $77.67. The firm has a market cap of $174.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.99, a P/E/G ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 1.38. Citigroup (NYSE:C Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 15th. The company reported $1.96 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.61 by $0.35. Citigroup had a return on equity of 7.29% and a net margin of 8.44%. The business had revenue of $21.67 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $20.75 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.52 earnings per share. Citigroups quarterly revenue was up 8.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Citigroup Inc. will post 7.53 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Citigroup Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 22nd. Shareholders of record on Monday, August 4th will be issued a dividend of $0.60 per share. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.5%. This is an increase from Citigroups previous quarterly dividend of $0.56. The ex-dividend date is Monday, August 4th. Citigroups dividend payout ratio is 35.45%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research firms have recently issued reports on C. Dbs Bank upgraded Citigroup from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their target price on Citigroup from $85.00 to $96.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Wall Street Zen upgraded Citigroup from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. UBS Group restated a neutral rating and issued a $89.00 target price on shares of Citigroup in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Finally, Barclays increased their target price on Citigroup from $95.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Citigroup presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $96.54. Read Our Latest Research Report on C Citigroup Profile (Free Report) Citigroup Inc, a diversified financial service holding company, provides various financial product and services to consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions worldwide. It operates through five segments: Services, Markets, Banking, U.S. Personal Banking, and Wealth. The Services segment includes Treasury and Trade Solutions, which provides cash management, trade, and working capital solutions to multinational corporations, financial institutions, and public sector organizations; and Securities Services, such as cross-border support for clients, local market expertise, post-trade technologies, data solutions, and various securities services solutions. Recommended Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding C? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:C Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Citigroup Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Citigroup and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Commerzbank AG (OTCMKTS:CRZBY Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the four ratings firms that are covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on CRZBY shares. Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating on shares of Commerzbank in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reissued a buy rating on shares of Commerzbank in a report on Thursday, April 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating on shares of Commerzbank in a report on Monday. Finally, Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating on shares of Commerzbank in a report on Monday, May 19th. Get Commerzbank alerts: Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Commerzbank Institutional Inflows and Outflows Commerzbank Stock Performance A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its position in shares of Commerzbank by 124.6% in the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 4,156 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $95,000 after purchasing an additional 2,306 shares during the period. Rhumbline Advisers boosted its position in shares of Commerzbank by 14.5% in the 1st quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 5,140 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $117,000 after purchasing an additional 650 shares during the period. Finally, Yousif Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Commerzbank by 8.0% in the 2nd quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 15,644 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $492,000 after purchasing an additional 1,165 shares during the period. CRZBY stock opened at $43.05 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 14.07, a quick ratio of 33.14 and a current ratio of 33.14. The stock has a market capitalization of $51.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.13 and a beta of 0.69. Commerzbank has a 1 year low of $13.57 and a 1 year high of $43.18. The stocks fifty day moving average is $34.35 and its two-hundred day moving average is $28.10. Commerzbank (OTCMKTS:CRZBY Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.67 by ($0.45). The company had revenue of $3.49 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.97 billion. Commerzbank had a net margin of 10.51% and a return on equity of 7.57%. On average, research analysts predict that Commerzbank will post 1.96 EPS for the current year. Commerzbank Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Friday, May 30th. Investors of record on Tuesday, May 20th were issued a dividend of $0.5056 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, May 19th. This is an increase from Commerzbanks previous dividend of $0.26. This represents a yield of 175.0%. Commerzbanks dividend payout ratio is presently 23.11%. About Commerzbank (Get Free Report) Commerzbank AG provides banking and capital market products and services to private and small business customers, corporate, financial service providers, and institutional clients in Germany, rest of Europe, the Americas, Asia, and internationally. It operates through two segments, Private and Small-Business Customers, and Corporate Clients. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Commerzbank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Commerzbank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. National Pension Service grew its position in shares of Crh Plc (NYSE:CRH Free Report) by 8.6% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,154,053 shares of the construction companys stock after purchasing an additional 170,702 shares during the quarter. National Pension Service owned 0.32% of CRH worth $189,492,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Orion Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of CRH during the 4th quarter valued at $28,000. Park Square Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of CRH during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Heck Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of CRH during the 4th quarter valued at $32,000. Colonial Trust Co SC acquired a new position in shares of CRH during the 4th quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, GW&K Investment Management LLC increased its position in shares of CRH by 86.7% during the 1st quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 448 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $39,000 after purchasing an additional 208 shares during the period. 62.50% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get CRH alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes Several brokerages have recently issued reports on CRH. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a neutral rating on shares of CRH in a research report on Tuesday, May 6th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and issued a $112.00 target price (up from $108.00) on shares of CRH in a report on Friday, August 8th. Vertical Research upgraded CRH to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Sanford C. Bernstein assumed coverage on CRH in a report on Tuesday, May 13th. They issued an outperform rating and a $115.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating on shares of CRH in a report on Friday, August 8th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, CRH currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $113.18. CRH Stock Up 1.7% Shares of CRH stock opened at $113.92 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $76.97 billion, a PE ratio of 23.83, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.44 and a beta of 1.26. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $95.38 and a 200-day simple moving average of $95.20. Crh Plc has a 12 month low of $76.75 and a 12 month high of $113.95. CRH (NYSE:CRH Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, August 6th. The construction company reported $1.94 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.06 by ($0.12). The business had revenue of $10.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.27 billion. CRH had a return on equity of 15.68% and a net margin of 9.09%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 5.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $1.88 EPS. Analysts expect that Crh Plc will post 5.47 EPS for the current fiscal year. CRH Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 24th. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 22nd will be given a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 22nd. CRHs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 23.22%. 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. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for CRH Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for CRH and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. reduced its position in shares of Fair Isaac Corporation (NYSE:FICO Free Report) by 43.0% during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 515 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 388 shares during the period. E Fund Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Fair Isaac were worth $950,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in Fair Isaac by 5.5% during the first quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 846 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,560,000 after buying an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. YCG LLC increased its holdings in Fair Isaac by 60.7% during the first quarter. YCG LLC now owns 26,116 shares of the technology companys stock worth $48,162,000 after buying an additional 9,865 shares during the last quarter. National Pension Service increased its holdings in Fair Isaac by 7.9% during the first 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 during the last quarter. LGT Group Foundation purchased a new stake in Fair Isaac during the first quarter worth about $6,195,000. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its holdings in Fair Isaac by 32.0% during the first 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 during the last quarter. 85.75% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get Fair Isaac alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In other news, CFO Steven P. Weber sold 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $1,738.25, for a total value of $1,738,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 1,862 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,236,621.50. This trade represents a 34.94% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO William J. Lansing sold 6,010 shares of the firms 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 transaction, the chief executive officer owned 42,138 shares of the companys stock, valued at $74,492,399.16. This trade represents a 12.48% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 13,021 shares of company stock valued at $22,247,892 over the last 90 days. 3.46% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Analyst Ratings Changes FICO has been the subject of a number of research analyst 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 for the company in a report on Wednesday, July 16th. Baird R W upgraded shares of Fair Isaac from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, May 28th. Barclays reduced their target price on shares of Fair Isaac from $2,250.00 to $2,000.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 9th. Jefferies Financial Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Fair Isaac in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets upgraded shares of Fair Isaac to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, ten have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $2,163.14. Check Out Our Latest Analysis on FICO Fair Isaac Trading Up 1.2% FICO stock opened at $1,334.33 on Thursday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $1,632.49 and a 200-day moving average of $1,781.71. Fair Isaac Corporation has a 12 month low of $1,301.01 and a 12 month high of $2,402.51. The firm has a market capitalization of $32.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 52.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.57 and a beta of 1.28. Fair Isaac (NYSE:FICO Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 30th. The technology company reported $8.57 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $7.75 by $0.82. Fair Isaac had a net margin of 32.80% and a negative return on equity of 48.88%. The company had revenue of $536.42 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $520.40 million. During the same period last year, the business earned $6.25 earnings per share. Fair Isaacs revenue was up 19.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts predict that Fair Isaac Corporation will post 24.15 EPS for the current year. Fair Isaac announced that its Board of Directors has initiated a stock repurchase plan on Thursday, June 19th that authorizes the company to buyback $1.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the technology company to repurchase up to 2.3% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback plans are typically an indication that the companys board of directors believes its stock is 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. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FICO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Fair Isaac Corporation (NYSE:FICO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Fair Isaac Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fair Isaac and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. decreased its stake in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report) by 2.7% in the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 26,032 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 715 shares during the quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Pfizer were worth $660,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Pfizer by 0.9% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 523,165,127 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $13,257,004,000 after buying an additional 4,629,976 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp lifted its holdings in Pfizer by 7.7% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 58,382,560 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,548,889,000 after buying an additional 4,167,222 shares in the last quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC lifted its holdings in Pfizer by 3.5% during the 4th quarter. UBS AM a distinct business unit of UBS ASSET MANAGEMENT AMERICAS LLC now owns 39,402,619 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,045,351,000 after buying an additional 1,333,740 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. increased its position in Pfizer by 2.8% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 30,296,337 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $767,709,000 after purchasing an additional 838,198 shares during the period. Finally, Deutsche Bank AG increased its position in Pfizer by 7.0% during the 1st quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 28,239,197 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $715,581,000 after purchasing an additional 1,846,436 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock. Get Pfizer alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In PFE has been the topic of a number of research reports. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on shares of Pfizer from $36.00 to $30.00 in a research report on Thursday, April 17th. Wolfe Research raised their target price on shares of Pfizer from $22.00 to $23.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. UBS Group raised their target price on shares of Pfizer from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. TD Cowen cut their target price on shares of Pfizer from $32.00 to $28.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their target price on shares of Pfizer from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, April 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $28.12. Pfizer Stock Up 2.0% PFE stock opened at $25.14 on Thursday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $24.52 and a 200 day moving average of $24.47. The stock has a market capitalization of $142.93 billion, a PE ratio of 13.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 0.52. The company has a quick ratio of 0.85, a current ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. Pfizer Inc. has a 52 week low of $20.92 and a 52 week high of $30.43. Pfizer (NYSE:PFE Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.78 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.58 by $0.20. The company had revenue of $14.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.43 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. Pfizers revenue for the quarter was up 10.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.60 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 earnings per share for the current year. Pfizer Dividend Announcement The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, July 25th will be paid a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, July 25th. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.8%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 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. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PFE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Pfizer Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Pfizer and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its position in shares of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG Free Report) by 1.6% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 35,972 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after acquiring an additional 574 shares during the quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in EOG Resources were worth $4,613,000 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 the company. Silvercrest Asset Management Group LLC raised its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 14.8% during the 4th quarter. Silvercrest Asset Management Group LLC now owns 826,038 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $101,256,000 after buying an additional 106,677 shares during the last quarter. ARGA Investment Management LP raised its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 24.2% during the 1st quarter. ARGA Investment Management LP now owns 13,441 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $1,724,000 after buying an additional 2,616 shares during the last quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC raised its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 15.3% during the 1st quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC now owns 20,344 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $2,609,000 after buying an additional 2,697 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC raised its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 37.9% during the 1st quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 162,603 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $20,852,000 after buying an additional 44,687 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc increased its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 4.7% in the 1st quarter. Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc now owns 182,634 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $23,032,000 after purchasing an additional 8,127 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.91% of the companys stock. Get EOG Resources alerts: Insider Buying and Selling at EOG Resources In other news, COO Jeffrey R. Leitzell sold 3,951 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, June 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $119.65, for a total transaction of $472,737.15. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 45,739 shares in the company, valued at $5,472,671.35. The trade was a 7.95% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.13% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities analysts recently weighed in on EOG shares. Barclays lifted their price target on EOG Resources from $137.00 to $140.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Mizuho cut their price target on EOG Resources from $140.00 to $134.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Morgan Stanley set a $135.00 price target on EOG Resources and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Stephens started coverage on EOG Resources in a research note on Tuesday, June 17th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $137.00 price target for the company. Finally, Bank of America cut their price target on EOG Resources from $125.00 to $124.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $140.71. Get Our Latest Report on EOG EOG Resources Trading Up 1.1% Shares of EOG Resources stock opened at $119.32 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $65.15 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.60, a P/E/G ratio of 9.02 and a beta of 0.80. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $120.01 and its 200-day simple moving average is $119.64. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 1-year low of $102.52 and a 1-year high of $138.18. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 1.79 and a quick ratio of 1.61. EOG Resources (NYSE:EOG Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, August 7th. The energy exploration company reported $2.32 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.14 by $0.18. The business had revenue of $5.48 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.45 billion. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 20.51% and a net margin of 25.25%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $3.16 EPS. Analysts predict that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 EPS for the current fiscal year. EOG Resources Increases Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 17th will be issued a dividend of $1.02 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, October 17th. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.4%. This is an increase from EOG Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.98. EOG Resourcess payout ratio is presently 37.90%. EOG Resources Profile (Free Report) EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EOG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for EOG Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for EOG Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Insider and Institutional Ownership 28.9% of Permian Basin Royalty Trust shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 6.8% of Permianville Royalty Trust shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term. Profitability This table compares Permian Basin Royalty Trust and Permianville Royalty Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Get Permian Basin Royalty Trust alerts: Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Permian Basin Royalty Trust 93.60% 12,661.40% 593.31% Permianville Royalty Trust 4.64% 6.28% 6.25% Valuation and Earnings This table compares Permian Basin Royalty Trust and Permianville Royalty Trusts revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Permian Basin Royalty Trust $26.96 million 27.51 $25.42 million $0.49 32.47 Permianville Royalty Trust $61.63 million 1.00 $5.14 million $0.09 20.78 Permian Basin Royalty Trust has higher earnings, but lower revenue than Permianville Royalty Trust. Permianville Royalty Trust is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Permian Basin Royalty Trust, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks. Volatility & Risk Permian Basin Royalty Trust has a beta of 0.59, suggesting that its stock price is 41% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Permianville Royalty Trust has a beta of 0.46, suggesting that its stock price is 54% less volatile than the S&P 500. Summary Permian Basin Royalty Trust beats Permianville Royalty Trust on 9 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks. About Permian Basin Royalty Trust (Get Free Report) Permian Basin Royalty Trust, an express trust, holds royalty interests in various oil and gas properties in the United States. The company holds a 75% net overriding royalty interest in the Waddell Ranch properties, including Dune, Sand Hills (Judkins), Sand Hills (McKnight), Sand Hills (Tubb), University-Waddell (Devonian) and Waddell fields in Crane County, Texas. It also holds a 95% net overriding royalty in the Texas Royalty properties, which consist of various producing oil fields, such as Yates, Wasson, Sand Hills, East Texas, Kelly-Snyder, Panhandle Regular, N. Cowden, Todd, Keystone, Kermit, McElroy, Howard-Glasscock, Seminole, and others located in Texas. Its Texas Royalty properties comprise approximately 125 separate royalty interests containing approximately 51,000 net producing acres. The company was founded in 1980 and is based in Dallas, Texas. About Permianville Royalty Trust (Get Free Report) Permianville Royalty Trust operates as a statutory trust. It is involved in the acquisition and holding of net profits interest representing the right to receive 80% of the net profits from the sale of oil and natural gas production from properties located in the states of Texas, Louisiana, and New Mexico. The company was formerly known as Enduro Royalty Trust and changed its name to Permianville Royalty Trust in September 2018. Permianville Royalty Trust was incorporated in 2011 and is based in Houston, Texas. Receive News & Ratings for Permian Basin Royalty Trust Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Permian Basin Royalty Trust and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund grew its position in Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM Free Report) by 20.9% during the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 109,696 shares of the business services providers stock after purchasing an additional 19,000 shares during the quarter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Waste Management were worth $25,396,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Westend Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Waste Management by 126.9% during the 1st quarter. Westend Capital Management LLC now owns 118 shares of the business services providers stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 66 shares during the period. Transce3nd LLC acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $28,000. West Branch Capital LLC grew its position in shares of Waste Management by 69.0% in the 1st quarter. West Branch Capital LLC now owns 120 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 49 shares during the period. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $38,000. Finally, Adalta Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Waste Management in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.40% of the companys stock. Get Waste Management alerts: Waste Management Price Performance Shares of NYSE:WM opened at $229.80 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 0.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.51. Waste Management, Inc. has a twelve month low of $199.69 and a twelve month high of $242.58. The stocks 50 day moving average is $230.44 and its 200-day moving average is $229.32. The firm has a market capitalization of $92.57 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.09, a PEG ratio of 2.86 and a beta of 0.64. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Waste Management ( NYSE:WM Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, July 28th. The business services provider reported $1.92 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.89 by $0.03. Waste Management had a return on equity of 34.37% and a net margin of 11.36%. The business had revenue of $6.43 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.37 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.82 earnings per share. Waste Managements revenue was up 19.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Waste Management, Inc. will post 7.7 EPS for the current fiscal year. A number of equities analysts have weighed in on WM shares. CIBC upped their price target on Waste Management from $244.00 to $250.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, June 26th. Scotiabank upped their price target on Waste Management from $265.00 to $275.00 and gave the stock a sector outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. UBS Group upped their price target on Waste Management from $260.00 to $265.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. National Bank Financial upgraded Waste Management to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, May 26th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded Waste Management from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and upped their price objective for the stock from $225.00 to $277.00 in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have given a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Waste Management presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $254.35. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on WM Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 57,888 shares of Waste Management stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $237.36, for a total transaction of $13,740,295.68. Following the sale, the chief financial officer directly owned 83,934 shares in the company, valued at $19,922,574.24. The trade was a 40.82% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, SVP Rafael Carrasco sold 674 shares of Waste Management stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $236.81, for a total value of $159,609.94. Following the sale, the senior vice president owned 16,542 shares in the company, valued at $3,917,311.02. The trade was a 3.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.18% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. About Waste Management (Free Report) Waste Management, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of environmental solutions to residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers in the United States and Canada. It offers collection services, including picking up and transporting waste and recyclable materials from where it was generated to a transfer station, material recovery facility (MRF), or disposal site; and owns and operates transfer stations, as well as owns, develops, and operates landfill facilities that produce landfill gas used as renewable natural gas for generating electricity. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Waste Management Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Waste Management and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Holderness Investments Co. grew its holdings in Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:MA Free Report) by 0.6% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 6,164 shares of the credit services providers stock after purchasing an additional 36 shares during the period. Holderness Investments Co.s holdings in Mastercard were worth $3,379,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Brighton Jones LLC grew its position in shares of Mastercard by 42.3% during the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 6,824 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $3,594,000 after buying an additional 2,028 shares in the last quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG grew its position in shares of Mastercard by 11.8% during the 4th quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG now owns 70,472 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $37,108,000 after buying an additional 7,452 shares in the last quarter. Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. bought a new position in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter worth $73,000. Trustco Bank Corp N Y bought a new position in shares of Mastercard during the 4th quarter worth $211,000. Finally, Cohen & Steers Inc. grew its position in shares of Mastercard by 5.1% during the 4th quarter. Cohen & Steers Inc. now owns 825 shares of the credit services providers stock worth $434,000 after buying an additional 40 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 97.28% of the companys stock. Get Mastercard alerts: Insider Transactions at Mastercard In other news, insider Raj Seshadri sold 1,100 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $546.77, for a total value of $601,447.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 12,921 shares in the company, valued at $7,064,815.17. This trade represents a 7.85% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Craig Vosburg sold 14,051 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $585.05, for a total value of $8,220,537.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 58,451 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $34,196,757.55. The trade was a 19.38% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 38,453 shares of company stock valued at $20,178,667. 0.09% of the stock is owned by company insiders. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research firms have recently issued reports on MA. KeyCorp increased their price target on Mastercard from $635.00 to $660.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 1st. The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Friday, August 1st. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Mastercard in a research report on Friday, June 6th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on Mastercard from $639.00 to $661.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft assumed coverage on Mastercard in a research report on Thursday, July 17th. They set a buy rating and a $650.00 price objective on the stock. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-five have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $615.33. View Our Latest Research Report on Mastercard Mastercard Trading Up 0.7% Mastercard stock opened at $578.08 on Thursday. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $563.47 and a two-hundred day moving average of $554.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.41, a quick ratio of 1.16 and a current ratio of 1.16. Mastercard Incorporated has a one year low of $456.07 and a one year high of $594.71. The stock has a market cap of $522.59 billion, a PE ratio of 38.98, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 1.03. Mastercard (NYSE:MA Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 31st. The credit services provider reported $4.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.05 by $0.10. Mastercard had a return on equity of 200.01% and a net margin of 44.93%. The firm had revenue of $8.13 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.95 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $3.50 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 16.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Mastercard Incorporated will post 15.91 EPS for the current fiscal year. Mastercard Announces Dividend The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 8th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, July 9th were paid a $0.76 dividend. This represents a $3.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.5%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, July 9th. Mastercards dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 20.50%. Mastercard Company 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. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Mastercard Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Mastercard and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Holderness Investments Co. cut its holdings in Corteva, Inc. (NYSE:CTVA Free Report) by 3.4% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 9,023 shares of the companys stock after selling 322 shares during the quarter. Holderness Investments Co.s holdings in Corteva were worth $568,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Pinney & Scofield Inc. bought a new position in shares of Corteva during the 4th quarter worth $27,000. LGT Financial Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Corteva during the 4th quarter worth $31,000. Valley National Advisers Inc. grew its stake in shares of Corteva by 85.9% during the 1st quarter. Valley National Advisers Inc. now owns 526 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 243 shares during the period. Richardson Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Corteva during the 1st quarter worth $37,000. Finally, von Borstel & Associates Inc. bought a new position in shares of Corteva during the 1st quarter worth $44,000. 81.54% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Corteva alerts: Corteva Stock Performance NYSE:CTVA opened at $72.36 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $49.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.30, a PEG ratio of 1.62 and a beta of 0.75. The company has a quick ratio of 1.23, a current ratio of 1.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06. Corteva, Inc. has a twelve month low of $51.25 and a twelve month high of $77.41. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $73.34 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $66.69. Corteva Increases Dividend Corteva ( NYSE:CTVA Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 6th. The company reported $2.20 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.89 by $0.31. The company had revenue of $6.46 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.26 billion. Corteva had a return on equity of 8.68% and a net margin of 8.16%. Cortevas revenue for the quarter was up 5.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.83 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that Corteva, Inc. will post 2.96 EPS for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 2nd will be given a dividend of $0.18 per share. This represents a $0.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.0%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 2nd. This is a positive change from Cortevas previous quarterly dividend of $0.17. Cortevas dividend payout ratio is 33.17%. Analyst Ratings Changes Several brokerages have commented on CTVA. BMO Capital Markets raised their target price on Corteva from $74.00 to $86.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 8th. Oppenheimer set a $87.00 target price on Corteva and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating on shares of Corteva in a research note on Monday. Wall Street Zen upgraded Corteva from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. Finally, UBS Group raised their target price on Corteva from $90.00 to $91.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $80.25. Read Our Latest Report on CTVA About Corteva (Free Report) Corteva, Inc operates in the agriculture business. It operates through two segments, Seed and Crop Protection. The Seed segment develops and supplies advanced germplasm and traits that produce optimum yield for farms. It offers trait technologies that enhance resistance to weather, disease, insects, and herbicides used to control weeds, as well as food and nutritional characteristics. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CTVA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Corteva, Inc. (NYSE:CTVA Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Corteva Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Corteva and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Finley Financial LLC boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWO Free Report) by 0.7% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 14,195 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the period. iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF makes up approximately 2.0% of Finley Financial LLCs holdings, making the stock its 14th biggest position. Finley Financial LLCs holdings in iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF were worth $3,620,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company purchased a new stake in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $79,675,000. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 3.8% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 3,630,750 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,045,003,000 after acquiring an additional 133,560 shares in the last quarter. Focus Partners Wealth lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 985.6% in the 4th quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 127,655 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $36,742,000 after acquiring an additional 115,896 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 164.5% in the 4th quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 181,819 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $52,331,000 after acquiring an additional 113,084 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Barings LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF by 5.2% in the 1st quarter. Barings LLC now owns 1,623,850 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $418,304,000 after acquiring an additional 79,800 shares in the last quarter. 74.88% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF alerts: iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF Stock Performance Shares of NYSEARCA:IWO opened at $304.81 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $12.30 billion, a PE ratio of 21.86 and a beta of 1.15. iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF has a 52 week low of $219.19 and a 52 week high of $317.62. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $287.60 and a 200 day simple moving average of $274.05. iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF Profile iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the Russell 2000 Growth Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the small-capitalization growth sector of the United States equity market. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IWO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 2000 Growth ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. National Pension Service boosted its stake in shares of AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO Free Report) by 5.1% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 42,339 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,065 shares during the quarter. National Pension Service owned about 0.25% of AutoZone worth $161,429,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Russell Investments Group Ltd. boosted its position in AutoZone by 5.3% during the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 76,886 shares of the companys stock worth $292,730,000 after purchasing an additional 3,842 shares during the period. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of AutoZone by 5.1% during the first quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 7,052 shares of the companys stock worth $26,852,000 after buying an additional 345 shares during the last quarter. Rathbones Group PLC lifted its holdings in shares of AutoZone by 1,270.2% during the first quarter. Rathbones Group PLC now owns 8,591 shares of the companys stock worth $32,756,000 after buying an additional 7,964 shares during the last quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board lifted its holdings in shares of AutoZone by 10.7% during the first quarter. Public Sector Pension Investment Board now owns 2,299 shares of the companys stock worth $8,766,000 after buying an additional 222 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Todd Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of AutoZone by 2.5% during the first quarter. Todd Asset Management LLC now owns 21,654 shares of the companys stock worth $82,561,000 after buying an additional 529 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.74% of the companys stock. Get AutoZone alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth AZO has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating on shares of AutoZone in a report on Wednesday, May 28th. Evercore ISI set a $3,950.00 price target on AutoZone in a report on Monday, May 19th. Bank of America upgraded AutoZone from a neutral rating to a buy rating and upped their price target for the stock from $3,900.00 to $4,800.00 in a report on Wednesday, May 21st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on AutoZone from $3,830.00 to $4,350.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Finally, Roth Capital set a $4,135.00 target price on AutoZone and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nineteen have assigned a buy rating and three have given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, AutoZone presently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $4,087.00. Insiders Place Their Bets In other news, Chairman William C. Rhodes III sold 27,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, June 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $3,708.93, for a total transaction of $101,995,575.00. Following the sale, the chairman owned 8,546 shares in the company, valued at approximately $31,696,515.78. This represents a 76.29% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, CFO Jamere Jackson sold 2,612 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $3,728.05, for a total value of $9,737,666.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 427 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,591,877.35. This represents a 85.95% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 33,862 shares of company stock worth $126,058,789 over the last ninety days. Company insiders own 2.10% of the companys stock. AutoZone Stock Performance Shares of AZO stock opened at $4,038.42 on Thursday. The stocks fifty day moving average is $3,754.31 and its 200-day moving average is $3,656.84. The stock has a market capitalization of $67.76 billion, a PE ratio of 27.33, a PEG ratio of 2.39 and a beta of 0.38. AutoZone, Inc. has a 52 week low of $2,898.57 and a 52 week high of $4,094.69. AutoZone (NYSE:AZO Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, May 27th. The company reported $35.36 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $37.07 by ($1.71). The business had revenue of $4.46 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.41 billion. AutoZone had a negative return on equity of 56.07% and a net margin of 13.56%. AutoZones revenue for the quarter was up 5.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $36.69 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that AutoZone, Inc. will post 152.94 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. AutoZone Company Profile (Free Report) AutoZone, Inc retails and distributes automotive replacement parts and accessories in the United States, Mexico, and Brazil. The company provides various products for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans, and light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AZO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for AutoZone, Inc. (NYSE:AZO Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for AutoZone Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AutoZone and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NFP Retirement Inc. purchased a new position in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 4,796 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $288,000. Several other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 1st quarter valued at about $219,141,000. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Altria Group by 5.8% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 63,288,773 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,798,592,000 after buying an additional 3,483,487 shares in the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised its position in shares of Altria Group by 40.0% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 11,961,220 shares of the companys stock valued at $717,913,000 after buying an additional 3,415,237 shares in the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its position in shares of Altria Group by 6,969.4% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,162,401 shares of the companys stock valued at $129,787,000 after buying an additional 2,131,813 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Castlekeep Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Altria Group during the 4th quarter valued at about $91,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 57.41% of the companys stock. Get Altria Group alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth MO has been the topic of several recent research reports. Needham & Company LLC upgraded shares of Altria Group to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 22nd. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Altria Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Citigroup upped their target price on shares of Altria Group from $52.00 to $55.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, April 25th. Barclays upped their price target on shares of Altria Group from $49.00 to $57.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of Altria Group from $57.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $59.13. Altria Group Trading Down 0.7% Shares of NYSE:MO opened at $65.53 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $110.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.68, a PEG ratio of 3.55 and a beta of 0.59. Altria Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $48.86 and a 12 month high of $66.29. The firms 50-day moving average is $60.06 and its 200 day moving average is $58.08. Altria Group (NYSE:MO Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 30th. The company reported $1.44 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.37 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $5.29 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.21 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 37.24% and a negative return on equity of 295.26%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up .2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.31 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 EPS for the current fiscal year. Altria Group Announces Dividend The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 10th. Stockholders of record on Monday, June 16th were given a $1.02 dividend. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, June 16th. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio is presently 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. Featured Stories 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). Receive News & Ratings for Altria Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Altria Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. OneAscent Investment Solutions LLC purchased a new position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) during the first quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund purchased 5,367 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $385,000. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. BNP Paribas bought a new stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company during the 4th quarter worth about $28,000. Motco raised its holdings 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 purchasing an additional 326 shares in 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 currently owned by institutional investors. Get Wells Fargo & Company alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of analysts recently commented on the stock. Raymond James Financial downgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a strong-buy rating to a market perform rating in a report on Monday, July 7th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, July 26th. Evercore ISI restated an outperform rating on shares of Wells Fargo & Company in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $77.00 to $87.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. Finally, Phillip Securities lowered shares of Wells Fargo & Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 17th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $80.39. Wells Fargo & Company Price Performance NYSE WFC opened at $77.96 on Thursday. 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 company has a fifty day simple moving average of $79.11 and a 200 day simple moving average of $74.99. The company has a market cap of $249.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.35, a P/E/G ratio of 1.24 and a beta of 1.20. Wells Fargo & Company has a 1 year low of $50.22 and a 1 year high of $84.83. Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.41 by $0.13. Wells Fargo & Company had a net margin of 16.82% and a return on equity of 12.29%. The firm had revenue of $20.82 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.83 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.33 EPS. The businesss revenue was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Wells Fargo & Company will post 5.89 EPS for the current year. Wells Fargo & Company Increases Dividend The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, August 8th will be issued a dividend of $0.45 per share. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 8th. This is a positive change from Wells Fargo & Companys previous quarterly dividend of $0.40. Wells Fargo & Companys payout ratio is 30.82%. Wells Fargo & Company declared that its board has approved a share repurchase program on Tuesday, April 29th that allows the company to buyback $40.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the financial services provider to repurchase up to 17.2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are often a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued. 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. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WFC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Wells Fargo & Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Wells Fargo & Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NFP Retirement Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM Free Report) by 2.5% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,589 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 62 shares during the quarter. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $411,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Bright Financial Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in Philip Morris International in the first quarter worth about $257,000. National Pension Service grew its stake in Philip Morris International by 5.3% in the first quarter. National Pension Service now owns 3,767,679 shares of the companys stock worth $598,044,000 after purchasing an additional 188,228 shares in the last quarter. Klingman & Associates LLC grew its stake in Philip Morris International by 38.1% in the first quarter. Klingman & Associates LLC now owns 4,577 shares of the companys stock worth $727,000 after purchasing an additional 1,262 shares in the last quarter. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter worth approximately $34,000. Finally, Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 7.9% in the 1st quarter. Resona Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 482,345 shares of the companys stock worth $76,299,000 after acquiring an additional 35,248 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.63% of the companys stock. Get Philip Morris International alerts: Philip Morris International Price Performance NYSE:PM opened at $165.69 on Thursday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12-month low of $116.12 and a 12-month high of $186.69. The firm has a market capitalization of $257.91 billion, a P/E ratio of 31.50, a P/E/G ratio of 2.45 and a beta of 0.48. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $175.47 and a 200 day simple moving average of $164.05. Philip Morris International Announces Dividend Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 22nd. The company reported $1.91 earnings per share (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 business had revenue of $10.14 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $10.33 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.59 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts anticipate that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently declared 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 3.3%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, June 27th. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is 102.66%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several research analysts have recently commented on PM shares. Citigroup reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Tuesday, July 22nd. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on Philip Morris International from $168.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. KGI Securities started coverage on Philip Morris International in a research report on Monday, August 4th. They issued an outperform rating for the company. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $182.00 target price (up previously from $156.00) on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $220.00 target price for the company. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Philip Morris International presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $186.27. Get Our Latest Research Report on Philip Morris International 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. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Philip Morris International Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Philip Morris International and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sei Investments Co. raised its position in shares of International Paper Company (NYSE:IP Free Report) by 19.8% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 477,800 shares of the basic materials companys stock after acquiring an additional 78,970 shares during the quarter. Sei Investments Co. owned approximately 0.09% of International Paper worth $25,586,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other large investors have also bought and sold shares of IP. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in International Paper by 52.0% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 62,623,540 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $3,340,966,000 after acquiring an additional 21,428,455 shares in the last quarter. Capital Research Global Investors boosted its position in International Paper by 68.8% during the 4th quarter. Capital Research Global Investors now owns 29,904,546 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $1,609,462,000 after acquiring an additional 12,191,361 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its position in International Paper by 19.4% during the 1st quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 17,145,485 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $914,712,000 after acquiring an additional 2,782,042 shares in the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of International Paper in the 1st quarter worth approximately $132,900,000. Finally, Bessemer Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of International Paper by 3,304.9% in the 1st quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 2,547,255 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $135,897,000 after purchasing an additional 2,472,443 shares in the last quarter. 81.95% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Get International Paper alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth IP has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut International Paper from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and dropped their price target for the stock from $55.00 to $54.00 in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Wall Street Zen raised International Paper from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, June 27th. Truist Financial set a $59.00 price target on International Paper in a research report on Wednesday, May 28th. UBS Group assumed coverage on shares of International Paper in a report on Wednesday, June 4th. They issued a buy rating and a $60.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company restated an underweight rating and issued a $43.00 price objective (up from $40.00) on shares of International Paper in a report on Thursday, July 10th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $55.03. International Paper Trading Up 0.7% Shares of International Paper stock opened at $48.72 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $25.72 billion, a P/E ratio of -487.20, a P/E/G ratio of 0.58 and a beta of 1.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 0.96 and a current ratio of 1.33. The company has a fifty day moving average of $49.16 and a 200 day moving average of $50.25. International Paper Company has a fifty-two week low of $43.27 and a fifty-two week high of $60.36. International Paper (NYSE:IP Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The basic materials company reported $0.20 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.38 by ($0.18). The firm had revenue of $6.77 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.64 billion. International Paper had a positive return on equity of 2.63% and a negative net margin of 0.12%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 42.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.55 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that International Paper Company will post 2.77 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. International Paper Dividend Announcement The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 16th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a dividend of $0.4625 per share. This represents a $1.85 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. International Papers dividend payout ratio is -1,850.00%. International Paper Company Profile (Free Report) International Paper Company produces and sells renewable fiber-based packaging and pulp products in North America, Latin America, Europe, and North Africa. It operates through two segments, Industrial Packaging and Global Cellulose Fibers. The company offers linerboard, medium, whitetop, recycled linerboard, recycled medium and saturating kraft; and pulp for a range of applications, such as diapers, towel and tissue products, feminine care, incontinence, and other personal care products, as well as specialty pulps for use in textiles, construction materials, paints, coatings, and others. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding IP? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for International Paper Company (NYSE:IP Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for International Paper Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for International Paper and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Gulf International Bank UK Ltd cut its holdings in Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE Free Report) by 26.8% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 36,067 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 13,210 shares during the quarter. Gulf International Bank UK Ltds holdings in Sempra Energy were worth $2,573,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Townsquare Capital LLC grew its holdings in Sempra Energy by 8.6% in the 4th quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 34,033 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,985,000 after buying an additional 2,696 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in Sempra Energy during the 4th quarter worth about $225,000. Mariner LLC lifted its stake in Sempra Energy by 21.9% during the 4th quarter. Mariner LLC now owns 106,087 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $9,306,000 after acquiring an additional 19,073 shares in the last quarter. CreativeOne Wealth LLC lifted its stake in Sempra Energy by 9.8% during the 4th quarter. CreativeOne Wealth LLC now owns 11,249 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $987,000 after acquiring an additional 1,002 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Guggenheim Capital LLC increased its holdings in Sempra Energy by 2.0% during the 4th quarter. Guggenheim Capital LLC now owns 102,413 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $8,984,000 after purchasing an additional 2,029 shares during the period. 89.65% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Sempra Energy alerts: Sempra Energy Stock Up 0.2% NYSE:SRE opened at $82.23 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $53.65 billion, a PE ratio of 19.86, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.30 and a beta of 0.62. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $77.34 and a 200-day moving average of $75.76. Sempra Energy has a 52 week low of $61.90 and a 52 week high of $95.77. The company has a current ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 0.41 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.93. Insider Activity at Sempra Energy Sempra Energy ( NYSE:SRE Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 7th. The utilities provider reported $0.89 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.82 by $0.07. Sempra Energy had a return on equity of 8.42% and a net margin of 20.28%. The business had revenue of $3 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.35 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.89 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down .4% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts predict that Sempra Energy will post 4.76 EPS for the current year. In other news, SVP Alexander Lisa Larroque sold 1,576 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, July 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $80.00, for a total transaction of $126,080.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president owned 15,600 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,248,000. This represents a 9.18% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.27% of the companys stock. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of research firms have recently commented on SRE. Barclays dropped their price objective on Sempra Energy from $72.00 to $71.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, July 10th. BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on Sempra Energy from $78.00 to $81.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, May 12th. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $88.00 price objective (up from $87.00) on shares of Sempra Energy in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. Finally, Citigroup reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $80.00 price objective (up from $70.00) on shares of Sempra Energy in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $81.58. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on SRE Sempra Energy Profile (Free Report) Sempra operates as an energy infrastructure company in the United States and internationally. It operates through three segments: Sempra California, Sempra Texas Utilities, and Sempra Infrastructure. The Sempra California segment provides electric services; and natural gas services to San Diego County. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SRE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Sempra Energy Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sempra Energy and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sienna Gestion trimmed its position in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Free Report) by 6.1% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 129,895 shares of the restaurant operators stock after selling 8,478 shares during the quarter. Sienna Gestions holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill were worth $6,340,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Cloud Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter valued at about $25,000. HighMark Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 173.4% during the 1st quarter. HighMark Wealth Management LLC now owns 585 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 371 shares during the last quarter. North Capital Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter valued at about $30,000. ORG Wealth Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 1st quarter valued at about $31,000. Finally, Mascagni Wealth Management Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the 4th quarter valued at about $45,000. 91.31% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Chipotle Mexican Grill alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have issued reports on the company. Citigroup dropped their target price on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $68.00 to $62.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Evercore ISI reduced their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $64.00 to $57.00 and set an outperform rating for the company 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 price target for the stock from $53.00 to $50.00 in a research note on Tuesday. Stephens reissued an equal weight rating and set a $60.00 price target on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, KeyCorp reduced their target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill from $60.00 to $58.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty have issued a buy rating and one has given 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 a consensus target price of $60.61. Insider Buying and Selling In related news, insider Roger E. Theodoredis sold 113,875 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $49.70, for a total transaction of $5,659,587.50. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 109,815 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,457,805.50. This trade represents a 50.91% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. 0.81% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Performance Shares of CMG stock opened at $43.46 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $50.73 and its 200-day simple moving average is $51.35. The firm has a market capitalization of $58.27 billion, a PE ratio of 38.80, a P/E/G ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 1.05. Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $41.18 and a fifty-two week high of $66.74. Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The restaurant operator reported $0.33 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.32 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $3.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates 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 period last year, the company earned $0.34 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts forecast that Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. will post 1.29 earnings per share for the current 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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CMG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chipotle Mexican Grill and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sienna Gestion cut its stake in Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD Free Report) (TSE:TD) by 7.4% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 247,259 shares of the banks stock after selling 19,834 shares during the quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank accounts for 1.2% of Sienna Gestions holdings, making the stock its 16th biggest position. Sienna Gestions holdings in Toronto Dominion Bank were worth $14,400,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of TD. Larson Financial Group LLC boosted its position in Toronto Dominion Bank by 122.9% during the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 428 shares of the banks stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 236 shares during the last quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 322.4% in the 1st quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 490 shares of the banks stock valued at $29,000 after buying an additional 374 shares during the last quarter. Moisand Fitzgerald Tamayo LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $32,000. ORG Partners LLC bought a new stake in Toronto Dominion Bank in the 1st quarter valued at $34,000. Finally, CoreCap Advisors LLC raised its stake in Toronto Dominion Bank by 57.5% in the 4th quarter. CoreCap Advisors LLC now owns 630 shares of the banks stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 230 shares during the period. 52.37% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Toronto Dominion Bank alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In Several analysts recently weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen raised Toronto Dominion Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, May 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada boosted their price objective on Toronto Dominion Bank from $87.00 to $93.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, May 23rd. Scotiabank started coverage on Toronto Dominion Bank in a report on Thursday, May 15th. They set a sector perform rating for the company. Finally, Desjardins raised Toronto Dominion Bank from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $93.00. Toronto Dominion Bank Stock Up 1.7% Shares of NYSE:TD opened at $74.48 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09. The stock has a market cap of $127.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.92, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 0.84. The businesss 50 day moving average is $72.94 and its 200 day moving average is $65.15. Toronto Dominion Bank has a 52-week low of $51.25 and a 52-week high of $75.58. Toronto Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD Get Free Report) (TSE:TD) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, May 22nd. The bank reported $1.39 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.25 by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $10.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.36 billion. Toronto Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 13.11% and a net margin of 13.53%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $2.04 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Toronto Dominion Bank will post 5.48 EPS for the current year. Toronto Dominion Bank Increases Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 31st. Shareholders of record on Thursday, July 10th were given a dividend of $0.7568 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, July 10th. This represents a $3.03 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.1%. This is an increase from Toronto Dominion Banks previous quarterly dividend of $0.73. Toronto Dominion Banks payout ratio is 45.16%. About Toronto Dominion Bank (Free Report) The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD Free Report) (TSE:TD). Receive News & Ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Swiss National Bank decreased its position in Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL Free Report) by 1.6% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 202,500 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 3,200 shares during the quarter. Swiss National Bank owned about 0.18% of Western Alliance Bancorporation worth $15,558,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Deutsche Bank AG grew its position in shares of Western Alliance Bancorporation by 215.8% in the first quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 18,993 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,459,000 after purchasing an additional 12,979 shares during the last quarter. Allianz SE acquired a new stake in Western Alliance Bancorporation during the first quarter worth approximately $340,000. Scotia Capital Inc. acquired a new stake in Western Alliance Bancorporation during the first quarter worth approximately $1,403,000. Arkadios Wealth Advisors acquired a new stake in Western Alliance Bancorporation during the first quarter worth approximately $576,000. Finally, XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new stake in Western Alliance Bancorporation during the first quarter worth approximately $710,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.15% of the companys stock. Get Western Alliance Bancorporation alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Stephens reissued an overweight rating and set a $92.00 price target on shares of Western Alliance Bancorporation in a research report on Tuesday, April 22nd. Truist Financial reduced their price target on Western Alliance Bancorporation from $96.00 to $93.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Barclays increased their price target on Western Alliance Bancorporation from $97.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Citigroup increased their price target on Western Alliance Bancorporation from $91.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 2nd. Finally, DA Davidson increased their price target on Western Alliance Bancorporation from $90.00 to $98.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $96.62. Insider Activity at Western Alliance Bancorporation In other news, insider Tim R. Bruckner sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, July 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $83.91, for a total value of $209,775.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 24,759 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,077,527.69. This represents a 9.17% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Insiders own 2.68% of the companys stock. Western Alliance Bancorporation Stock Up 2.5% Shares of WAL opened at $84.80 on Thursday. Western Alliance Bancorporation has a 52 week low of $57.05 and a 52 week high of $98.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $9.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.14, a PEG ratio of 0.57 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a current ratio of 0.86. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $79.00 and a 200-day moving average of $77.59. Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:WAL Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The financial services provider reported $2.07 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.04 by $0.03. Western Alliance Bancorporation had a return on equity of 12.62% and a net margin of 16.39%. The company had revenue of $836.21 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $838.58 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.75 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Western Alliance Bancorporation will post 9.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Western Alliance Bancorporation Announces Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 29th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 14th will be paid a $0.38 dividend. This represents a $1.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, August 14th. Western Alliance Bancorporations dividend payout ratio is presently 19.97%. About Western Alliance Bancorporation (Free Report) Western Alliance Bancorporation operates as the bank holding company for Western Alliance Bank that provides various banking products and related services primarily in Arizona, California, and Nevada. It operates through Commercial and Consumer Related segments. The company offers deposit products, including checking, savings, and money market accounts, as well as fixed-rate and fixed maturity certificates of deposit accounts; demand deposits; and treasury management and residential mortgage products and services. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Western Alliance Bancorporation Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Western Alliance Bancorporation and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sit Investment Associates Inc. boosted its position in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS Free Report) by 0.1% during the first quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 39,795 shares of the investment management companys stock after buying an additional 45 shares during the quarter. Sit Investment Associates Inc.s holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $21,740,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of GS. Brighton Jones LLC increased its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 17.1% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 3,474 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,989,000 after purchasing an additional 508 shares during the last quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC increased its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 7.0% in the 4th quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 888 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $508,000 after purchasing an additional 58 shares during the last quarter. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG bought a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the 4th quarter worth about $583,000. Highview Capital Management LLC DE grew its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 4.7% during the 4th quarter. Highview Capital Management LLC DE now owns 3,817 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $2,186,000 after buying an additional 171 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cohen & Steers Inc. grew its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 5.3% during the 4th quarter. Cohen & Steers Inc. now owns 893 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $511,000 after buying an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock. Get The Goldman Sachs Group alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth GS has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Royal Bank Of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Citigroup boosted their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $550.00 to $700.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, July 21st. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $650.00 to $785.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 8th. Citizens Jmp reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, July 12th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $660.00. The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Up 0.3% GS stock opened at $745.51 on Thursday. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $439.38 and a 12 month high of $748.91. The firm has a market cap of $225.68 billion, a PE ratio of 16.43, a P/E/G ratio of 1.58 and a beta of 1.38. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $689.63 and a 200 day simple moving average of $616.41. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57, a current ratio of 0.67 and a quick ratio of 0.67. 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 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $9.82 by $1.09. The business had revenue of $14.58 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates 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 quarterly revenue was up 14.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $8.62 earnings per share. Equities research analysts forecast 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 company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Investors of record on Friday, August 29th will be given a $4.00 dividend. This is a boost from The Goldman Sachs Groups previous quarterly dividend of $3.00. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $16.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.1%. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is currently 26.44%. Insider Activity at The Goldman Sachs Group In related news, EVP John F.W. Rogers sold 6,008 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, July 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $717.39, for a total value of $4,310,079.12. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 65,761 shares in the company, valued at approximately $47,176,283.79. This represents a 8.37% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CFO Denis P. Coleman sold 7,463 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on 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 sale, the chief financial officer owned 18,594 shares of the companys stock, 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. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 20,079 shares of company stock worth $14,423,221. 0.55% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. 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. Read More Receive News & Ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for The Goldman Sachs Group and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report) by 7.0% during the first quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 8,028 shares of the industrial products companys stock after purchasing an additional 524 shares during the period. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Illinois Tool Works were worth $1,991,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in ITW. Brighton Jones LLC raised its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 5.3% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 5,519 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,399,000 after acquiring an additional 277 shares during the period. Townsquare Capital LLC raised its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 5.2% in the 4th quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 9,412 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $2,387,000 after acquiring an additional 466 shares during the period. Synovus Financial Corp raised its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 2.9% in the 4th quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 2,809 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $712,000 after acquiring an additional 79 shares during the period. SageView Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in Illinois Tool Works in the 4th quarter valued at $407,000. Finally, XTX Topco Ltd bought a new stake in Illinois Tool Works in the 4th quarter valued at $1,026,000. Institutional investors own 79.77% of the companys stock. Get Illinois Tool Works alerts: Analysts Set New Price Targets Several research analysts have weighed in on the company. Truist Financial cut Illinois Tool Works from a buy rating to a hold rating and set a $283.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Bank of America cut Illinois Tool Works from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and set a $220.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. Robert W. Baird raised their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $239.00 to $244.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Citigroup raised their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $254.00 to $265.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Finally, UBS Group raised their price target on Illinois Tool Works from $243.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Illinois Tool Works currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $259.33. Illinois Tool Works Stock Performance Illinois Tool Works stock opened at $267.26 on Thursday. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 12-month low of $214.66 and a 12-month high of $279.13. The company has a quick ratio of 1.15, a current ratio of 1.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.40. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $253.29 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $250.16. The stock has a market cap of $77.91 billion, a PE ratio of 23.42, a P/E/G ratio of 5.62 and a beta of 1.09. Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 30th. The industrial products company reported $2.58 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.56 by $0.02. The company had revenue of $4.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.01 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 90.89% and a net margin of 21.31%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $2.54 earnings per share. As a group, analysts expect that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Illinois Tool Works Increases Dividend The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 10th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th will be issued a dividend of $1.61 per share. This represents a $6.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.4%. This is an increase from Illinois Tool Workss previous quarterly dividend of $1.50. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, September 30th. Illinois Tool Workss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 56.44%. Insider Buying and Selling at Illinois Tool Works In other news, Director David Byron Smith, Jr. purchased 872 shares of Illinois Tool Works stock in a transaction dated Monday, June 2nd. The shares were bought at an average cost of $241.16 per share, for a total transaction of $210,291.52. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director owned 122,884 shares in the company, valued at approximately $29,634,705.44. This trade represents a 0.71% increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock. Illinois Tool Works Profile (Free Report) Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment in the United States and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding ITW? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Illinois Tool Works Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Illinois Tool Works and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Salesforce, ServiceNow, and Tempus AI are the three Artificial Intelligence stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Artificial intelligence stocks are shares of publicly traded companies whose core businesses involve developing, producing or deploying AI technologiessuch as machine learning algorithms, neural-network processors, natural-language processing tools, and AI-powered software services. Investors buy these stocks to gain exposure to the rapid growth and innovation potential of AI applications across industries like healthcare, finance, autonomous vehicles and cloud computing. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Artificial Intelligence stocks within the last several days. Get alerts: Salesforce (CRM) Salesforce, Inc. provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and artificial intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer support at scale. NYSE CRM traded up $3.97 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $235.63. 4,641,599 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,150,624. Salesforce has a 12 month low of $226.48 and a 12 month high of $369.00. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $262.23 and a 200 day simple moving average of $277.72. The company has a current ratio of 1.07, a quick ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The company has a market capitalization of $225.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.80, a PEG ratio of 2.11 and a beta of 1.37. Read Our Latest Research Report on CRM ServiceNow (NOW) ServiceNow, Inc. provides end to-end intelligent workflow automation platform solutions for digital businesses in the North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific, and internationally. The company operates the Now platform for end-to-end digital transformation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, process mining, performance analytics, and collaboration and development tools. NYSE NOW traded up $5.79 during trading on Wednesday, hitting $859.22. 1,038,940 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,699,864. The company has a current ratio of 1.09, a quick ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $976.64 and a 200 day simple moving average of $939.68. The company has a market capitalization of $178.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 108.18, a PEG ratio of 3.86 and a beta of 0.93. ServiceNow has a 12 month low of $678.66 and a 12 month high of $1,198.09. Read Our Latest Research Report on NOW Tempus AI (TEM) Tempus AI Inc. is a technology company advancing precision medicine through the practical application of artificial intelligence principally in healthcare. The company provides AI-enabled precision medicine solutions to physicians to deliver personalized patient care and in parallel facilitates discovery, development and delivery of optimal therapeutics. TEM stock traded up $3.99 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $70.33. 12,314,322 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 12,467,864. The company has a current ratio of 1.54, a quick ratio of 1.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.58. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $62.50 and a 200-day simple moving average of $58.20. The company has a market capitalization of $12.17 billion, a P/E ratio of -58.88 and a beta of 4.98. Tempus AI has a twelve month low of $31.36 and a twelve month high of $91.45. Read Our Latest Research Report on TEM Featured Articles Russell Investments Group Ltd. trimmed its stake in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD Free Report) (TSE:TD) by 8.4% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 769,887 shares of the banks stock after selling 70,370 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd.s holdings in Toronto Dominion Bank were worth $46,144,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Balanced Rock Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 1.1% in the 1st quarter. Balanced Rock Investment Advisors LLC now owns 14,983 shares of the banks stock worth $898,000 after acquiring an additional 163 shares during the period. MFA Wealth Services lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. MFA Wealth Services now owns 4,179 shares of the banks stock worth $250,000 after acquiring an additional 179 shares during the period. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 14.5% in the 1st quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 1,500 shares of the banks stock worth $90,000 after acquiring an additional 190 shares during the period. JFS Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 6.0% in the 1st quarter. JFS Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 3,421 shares of the banks stock worth $205,000 after acquiring an additional 194 shares during the period. Finally, MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB lifted its position in shares of Toronto Dominion Bank by 14.3% in the 1st quarter. MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB now owns 1,619 shares of the banks stock worth $97,000 after acquiring an additional 202 shares during the period. 52.37% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Toronto Dominion Bank alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes TD has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. Scotiabank initiated coverage on Toronto Dominion Bank in a report on Thursday, May 15th. They issued a sector perform rating for the company. Wall Street Zen raised Toronto Dominion Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, May 24th. Desjardins raised Toronto Dominion Bank from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada increased their target price on Toronto Dominion Bank from $87.00 to $93.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, May 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $93.00. Toronto Dominion Bank Trading Up 1.7% TD stock opened at $74.48 on Thursday. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $72.94 and a 200 day moving average price of $65.15. Toronto Dominion Bank has a fifty-two week low of $51.25 and a fifty-two week high of $75.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $127.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.92, a P/E/G ratio of 1.66 and a beta of 0.84. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09, a current ratio of 1.03 and a quick ratio of 1.03. Toronto Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD Get Free Report) (TSE:TD) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, May 22nd. The bank reported $1.39 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.14. Toronto Dominion Bank had a return on equity of 13.11% and a net margin of 13.53%. The firm had revenue of $10.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $13.36 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.04 EPS. Analysts expect that Toronto Dominion Bank will post 5.48 EPS for the current fiscal year. Toronto Dominion Bank Increases Dividend The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, July 31st. Stockholders of record on Thursday, July 10th were paid a $0.7568 dividend. This is an increase from Toronto Dominion Banks previous quarterly dividend of $0.73. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, July 10th. This represents a $3.03 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.1%. Toronto Dominion Banks payout ratio is 45.16%. Toronto Dominion Bank Profile (Free Report) The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Toronto Dominion Bank (The) (NYSE:TD Free Report) (TSE:TD). Receive News & Ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Toronto Dominion Bank and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. decreased its stake in shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. (NYSE:SQM Free Report) by 25.1% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 14,446 shares of the basic materials companys stock after selling 4,829 shares during the period. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc.s holdings in Sociedad Quimica y Minera were worth $574,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Get Sociedad Quimica y Minera alerts: Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Wells Fargo & Company MN lifted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera by 1.0% during the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 79,047 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,874,000 after purchasing an additional 821 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera by 299.1% during the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 95,839 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $3,485,000 after purchasing an additional 71,823 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera by 3.6% during the 4th quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 113,173 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $4,115,000 after purchasing an additional 3,887 shares during the period. Raymond James Financial Inc. acquired a new position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera during the 4th quarter valued at about $261,000. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP lifted its position in Sociedad Quimica y Minera by 1,416.8% during the 4th quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 141,214 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $5,135,000 after purchasing an additional 131,904 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 12.41% of the companys stock. Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of research analysts have issued reports on SQM shares. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera from $55.00 to $45.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, May 29th. Scotiabank lowered their price target on Sociedad Quimica y Minera from $50.00 to $45.00 and set a sector outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, May 30th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on Sociedad Quimica y Minera from $39.00 to $41.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, two have assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $42.50. Sociedad Quimica y Minera Price Performance Sociedad Quimica y Minera stock opened at $46.44 on Thursday. The stocks 50 day moving average is $36.90 and its 200 day moving average is $37.18. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 2.88 and a quick ratio of 1.96. The firm has a market cap of $13.26 billion, a P/E ratio of 22.01 and a beta of 1.03. Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. has a one year low of $29.36 and a one year high of $47.39. Sociedad Quimica y Minera (NYSE:SQM Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, May 28th. The basic materials company reported $0.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.63 by ($0.15). Sociedad Quimica y Minera had a net margin of 13.45% and a return on equity of 11.71%. The business had revenue of $1.04 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.05 billion. During the same period last year, the firm posted ($3.04) earnings per share. Sociedad Quimica y Mineras quarterly revenue was down 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts expect that Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. will post -1.31 EPS for the current year. Sociedad Quimica y Minera Company Profile (Free Report) Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA operates as a mining company worldwide. The company offers specialty plant nutrients, including sodium potassium nitrate, specialty blends, and other specialty fertilizers under Ultrasol, Qrop, Speedfol, Allganic, Ultrasoline, ProP, and Prohydric brands. It also provides iodine and its derivatives for use in medical, agricultural, industrial, and human and animal nutrition products comprising x-ray contrast media, biocides, antiseptics and disinfectants, pharmaceutical intermediates, polarizing films for LCD and LED screens, chemicals, organic compounds, and pigments, as well as added to edible salt to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. Further Reading Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SQM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Sociedad Quimica y Minera S.A. (NYSE:SQM Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Sociedad Quimica y Minera Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sociedad Quimica y Minera and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. cut its stake in RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:RNR Free Report) by 9.1% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 331,256 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 33,290 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. owned approximately 0.68% of RenaissanceRe worth $79,501,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get RenaissanceRe alerts: Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Bank of America Corp DE boosted its holdings in RenaissanceRe by 17.9% in the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 817,247 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $203,339,000 after purchasing an additional 124,125 shares during the period. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of RenaissanceRe in the 1st quarter valued at $271,000. Yorktown Management & Research Co Inc acquired a new position in shares of RenaissanceRe in the 1st quarter valued at $348,000. Deutsche Bank AG raised its stake in shares of RenaissanceRe by 4.2% in the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 10,715 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $2,666,000 after buying an additional 431 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of RenaissanceRe by 128.4% in the 1st quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,142 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $274,000 after buying an additional 642 shares in the last quarter. 99.97% of the stock is owned by institutional investors. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on RNR shares. Wells Fargo & Company restated an equal weight rating and issued a $269.00 price objective (up previously from $267.00) on shares of RenaissanceRe in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of RenaissanceRe from $256.00 to $273.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 24th. Cantor Fitzgerald started coverage on shares of RenaissanceRe in a research note on Tuesday. They issued a neutral rating and a $238.00 price objective for the company. Citigroup began coverage on shares of RenaissanceRe in a research note on Wednesday. They issued a buy rating and a $288.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods increased their target price on shares of RenaissanceRe from $268.00 to $269.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Monday, July 28th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $282.09. RenaissanceRe Trading Up 1.8% RNR opened at $243.78 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 1.36, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $11.47 billion, a PE ratio of 6.23, a PEG ratio of 2.40 and a beta of 0.29. RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. has a 1-year low of $219.00 and a 1-year high of $300.00. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $241.51 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $240.35. RenaissanceRe (NYSE:RNR Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The insurance provider reported $12.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $10.28 by $2.01. The company had revenue of $2.77 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.96 billion. RenaissanceRe had a net margin of 15.44% and a return on equity of 15.00%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 2.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $12.41 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. will post 26.04 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. RenaissanceRe Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 15th will be paid a $0.40 dividend. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, September 15th. RenaissanceRes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 4.09%. About RenaissanceRe (Free Report) RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance and insurance products in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Property, and Casualty and Specialty segments. The Property segment writes property catastrophe excess of loss reinsurance and excess of loss reinsurance to insure insurance and reinsurance companies against natural and man-made catastrophes, including hurricanes, earthquakes, typhoons, and tsunamis, as well as winter storms, freezes, floods, fires, windstorms, tornadoes, explosions, and acts of terrorism; and other property class of products, such as proportional reinsurance, property per risk, property reinsurance, binding facilities, and regional U.S. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for RenaissanceRe Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for RenaissanceRe and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. US Bancorp DE lifted its stake in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. (NYSE:AHH Free Report) by 6.9% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 41,716 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 2,699 shares during the quarter. US Bancorp DEs holdings in Armada Hoffler Properties were worth $313,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Get Armada Hoffler Properties alerts: A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in AHH. Summit Investment Advisors Inc. boosted its position in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties by 23.2% during the 4th quarter. Summit Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 8,248 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $84,000 after purchasing an additional 1,551 shares in the last quarter. Quantinno Capital Management LP bought a new position in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties during the 4th quarter worth about $115,000. Focus Partners Wealth boosted its position in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties by 28.2% during the 4th quarter. Focus Partners Wealth now owns 13,332 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $136,000 after purchasing an additional 2,931 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can raised its holdings in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties by 21.0% in the 4th quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 14,417 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $147,000 after acquiring an additional 2,502 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Armada Hoffler Properties by 61.2% in the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 21,036 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $158,000 after acquiring an additional 7,985 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 66.35% of the companys stock. Armada Hoffler Properties Trading Up 1.1% AHH opened at $7.23 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23, a current ratio of 8.66 and a quick ratio of 8.66. The firm has a market capitalization of $732.54 million, a PE ratio of 60.26 and a beta of 1.12. Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $6.10 and a fifty-two week high of $12.46. The companys 50-day moving average is $6.99 and its 200 day moving average is $7.56. Armada Hoffler Properties Announces Dividend Armada Hoffler Properties ( NYSE:AHH Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, August 4th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.25 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.26 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $65.15 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $63.29 million. Armada Hoffler Properties had a net margin of 4.39% and a return on equity of 3.40%. As a group, research analysts predict that Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. will post 1.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, July 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, June 30th were paid a $0.14 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, June 30th. This represents a $0.56 annualized dividend and a yield of 7.7%. Armada Hoffler Propertiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 466.67%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on shares of Armada Hoffler Properties in a report on Friday, June 27th. They issued a buy rating and a $8.00 target price on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus lowered their target price on shares of Armada Hoffler Properties from $12.25 to $10.50 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, May 8th. Finally, Scotiabank lowered their target price on shares of Armada Hoffler Properties from $10.00 to $8.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 16th. View Our Latest Report on AHH Armada Hoffler Properties Company Profile (Free Report) Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc (the Company) is a vertically integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT) with over four decades of experience developing, building, acquiring, and managing high-quality retail, office, and multifamily properties located primarily in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AHH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. (NYSE:AHH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Armada Hoffler Properties Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Armada Hoffler Properties and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in SentinelOne, Inc. (NYSE:S Free Report) by 4.4% during the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 31,199,885 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,318,533 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned 9.46% of SentinelOne worth $567,214,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Get SentinelOne alerts: A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in S. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its position in SentinelOne by 105.0% in the 4th quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 69,959 shares of the companys stock worth $1,553,000 after purchasing an additional 35,829 shares during the period. Advisory Services Network LLC purchased a new stake in SentinelOne in the 4th quarter worth about $489,000. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in SentinelOne in the 4th quarter worth about $26,082,000. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina raised its position in SentinelOne by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 122,674 shares of the companys stock worth $2,723,000 after purchasing an additional 2,590 shares during the period. Finally, Sterling Capital Management LLC raised its position in SentinelOne by 50.2% in the 4th quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC now owns 14,381 shares of the companys stock worth $319,000 after purchasing an additional 4,805 shares during the period. 90.87% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Insider Activity In related news, CAO Robin Tomasello sold 2,921 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $17.31, for a total transaction of $50,562.51. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer owned 306,044 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,297,621.64. This represents a 0.95% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, insider Ric Smith sold 15,163 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $16.68, for a total transaction of $252,918.84. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 976,056 shares of the companys stock, valued at $16,280,614.08. The trade was a 1.53% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders sold 133,730 shares of company stock worth $2,366,017. 4.33% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. SentinelOne Stock Up 5.5% NYSE:S opened at $17.20 on Thursday. SentinelOne, Inc. has a 52 week low of $15.36 and a 52 week high of $29.29. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $18.00 and a 200 day moving average of $19.25. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -13.03 and a beta of 0.77. SentinelOne (NYSE:S Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, May 28th. The company reported $0.02 EPS for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.02. SentinelOne had a negative net margin of 49.36% and a negative return on equity of 15.95%. The company had revenue of $229.03 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $228.39 million. The businesss revenue was up 22.9% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts expect that SentinelOne, Inc. will post -0.76 EPS for the current year. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of brokerages have commented on S. Stephens restated an overweight rating and issued a $25.00 target price on shares of SentinelOne in a research note on Tuesday, May 27th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and issued a $24.00 target price on shares of SentinelOne in a research note on Friday, May 23rd. Jefferies Financial Group restated a buy rating on shares of SentinelOne in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of SentinelOne from $21.00 to $19.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, May 29th. Finally, Bank of America restated a neutral rating and issued a $21.00 target price on shares of SentinelOne in a research note on Thursday, May 29th. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $24.80. View Our Latest Research Report on SentinelOne About SentinelOne (Free Report) SentinelOne, Inc operates as a cybersecurity provider in the United States and internationally. Its Singularity Platform delivers an artificial intelligence-powered autonomous threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities across an organization's endpoints, cloud workloads, and identify credentials, which enables seamless and autonomous protection against a spectrum of cyber threats. See Also Receive News & Ratings for SentinelOne Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for SentinelOne and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vanguard Group Inc. lessened its holdings in shares of Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE:MTN Free Report) by 0.8% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 3,685,833 shares of the companys stock after selling 30,824 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. owned about 9.87% of Vail Resorts worth $589,807,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Get Vail Resorts alerts: A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of MTN. Heck Capital Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Vail Resorts during the 4th quarter valued at about $33,000. Golden State Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Vail Resorts by 102.5% during the 1st quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 243 shares of the companys stock valued at $39,000 after purchasing an additional 123 shares during the period. Alpine Bank Wealth Management purchased a new position in Vail Resorts during the 1st quarter valued at about $40,000. GAMMA Investing LLC increased its holdings in Vail Resorts by 75.3% during the 1st quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 270 shares of the companys stock valued at $43,000 after purchasing an additional 116 shares during the period. Finally, GeoWealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Vail Resorts by 162.2% during the 4th quarter. GeoWealth Management LLC now owns 291 shares of the companys stock valued at $55,000 after purchasing an additional 180 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.90% of the companys stock. Vail Resorts Stock Performance Shares of MTN opened at $154.90 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 0.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.70. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $156.94 and its 200-day moving average price is $154.88. Vail Resorts, Inc. has a 52 week low of $129.85 and a 52 week high of $199.45. The stock has a market cap of $5.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.81, a P/E/G ratio of 1.86 and a beta of 0.90. Vail Resorts Dividend Announcement Vail Resorts ( NYSE:MTN Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, June 5th. The company reported $10.54 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $10.00 by $0.54. Vail Resorts had a return on equity of 30.25% and a net margin of 9.81%. The firm had revenue of $1.30 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.31 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $9.54 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 1.0% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that Vail Resorts, Inc. will post 7.62 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, July 9th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, June 24th were given a $2.22 dividend. This represents a $8.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, June 24th. Vail Resortss payout ratio is currently 113.55%. Insider Activity at Vail Resorts In related news, CFO Angela A. Korch purchased 200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, June 20th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $157.00 per share, with a total value of $31,400.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 3,156 shares in the company, valued at $495,492. This trade represents a 6.77% increase in their position. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. 1.20% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of brokerages recently issued reports on MTN. Mizuho boosted their price target on Vail Resorts from $215.00 to $216.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, June 6th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reduced their price target on Vail Resorts from $183.00 to $171.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, May 29th. Bank of America boosted their price target on Vail Resorts from $160.00 to $175.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, May 28th. Morgan Stanley reiterated an equal weight rating on shares of Vail Resorts in a report on Friday, June 6th. Finally, UBS Group lowered their target price on Vail Resorts from $185.00 to $169.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, June 11th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $187.20. Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on MTN Vail Resorts Company Profile (Free Report) Vail Resorts, Inc, through its subsidiaries, operates mountain resorts and regional ski areas in the United States. It operates through three segments: Mountain, Lodging, and Real Estate. The Mountain segment operates 41 destination mountain resorts and regional ski areas. This segment is also involved in the ancillary activities, including ski school, dining, and retail/rental operations, as well as real estate brokerage activities. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Vail Resorts Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Vail Resorts and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. A mother who got less than 24 hours notice her daughters respite stay at Rosebud Cottage in Derry was being cancelled has criticised the Western Health and Social Care Trusts lack of such provision. Roisin McMackins daughter, who has severe learning disabilities, was allocated a two-day stay in Rosebud Cottage in the Racecourse Road area of the city, in May. However, Ms McMackin was phoned the day before and told her daughters respite was being cancelled due to Rosebud Cottage being closed to further admissions for the foreseeable future. Rosebud Cottage is a four-bed, short-term respite centre. Parents and guardians were informed of its closure during a private meeting with the Trusts childrens disability managers in the city in June. Derry News understands there is currently one young person housed in the facility. Roisin McMackin has called on the Trust to build a new respite facility for children and young people with learning disabilities in its area or to repurpose a vacant building from its own estate. Speaking to The Derry News, Ms McMackin said: As far back as 2013, MLAs were aware there has not been sufficient bed allocation or respite provision in place for children and young people with learning disabilities, right across the North. This claim is supported by the publicly available minutes of the all-party Committee for Health meeting held in Stormont to examine respite services / short breaks on March 13, 2025. The meeting did not include a representative from the Western Health and Social Care Trust. During that meeting, Mr Maurice Leeson from the Department of Health said: There are clear demand and capacity gaps for residential and short-breaks services and growing levels of unmet need. A key message that we want to communicate today is that short breaks for children with disabilities are fragile. They are fragile because of the volume of children who are in need of the service, the level of risk that families are managing in homes and the lack of suitable residential placements, said Mr Leeson. Roisin McMackin highlighted the minutes also revealed, only 1.37 million of the 2 million allocated in the last financial year to improve residential and short breaks and expand family, therapeutic and behavioural supports in the community had been spent. It is shocking an unspent 630,000 was handed back to the Department of Health, yet families in the Western Health and Social Care Trust have been unable to access respite provision for their children or young people in Rosebud Cottage since May, and periodically in Avalon House, an eight-bed respite care facility in Omagh for children and young people, she said. I want to be very, very clear, nobody is blaming any parent. It is absolutely terrible the families of children in Rosebud Cottage and Avalon House have been unable to access respite anywhere else. They should definitely have someplace for their child, added Ms McMackin. However, other families should still be able to access respite when these facilities are not available, for whatever reason. We do not know how long this situation is going to continue but the upshot is there will be no respite for our children and young people, indefinitely. With the 630,000 that was handed back to the Health Department, and aware of the situation of parents in the Western Health and Social Care Trust desperate for respite provision for their children and young people, surely a new respite unit could be built? That would be fair. Or failing a new build the Trust could have used that 630,000 to repurpose one of the many vacant buildings in its estate, said Roisin McMackin. A Spokesperson for the Western Health and Social Care Trust (Western Trust) said: The funding referenced was non-recurrent funding across the five HSC Trusts to be spent before the end of the financial year 2024/25. The Western Trust did not return any funding and used it all to offer a wide variety of activities, events and supports to children and their families. This was based on views from previous parents meetings across the Trust area. The Childrens Disability teams accessed a number of these activities through Community and Voluntary partners across the Trust area. The feedback from families who used the activities and events was entirely positive and requesting further activities and events going forward. The Trust continues to provide regular updates to parents via meetings regarding short break provision for children and young people disability services. The Short break provision for children and young peoples disability service at Rosebud Cottage (Northern Sector) was temporarily postponed at the end of May 2025 to support a medium term placement. It is anticipated that Rosebud will reopen to provide short break provision shortly to provide short break provision for young people across the Trust geography. Avalon House (Southern Sector) continues to provide medium/long term care for a number of children. The Spokesperson concluded: The Trust continues to provide respite through self-directed support arrangements and is based on an individual assessment for each family. The assessed need of any family can change over time and regular reviews are built into the process. The Connections Projects Did Ye Hear About? myth-busting conversation series had a superb run with three very well-attended events over the past week and all within the realms of the annual Feile Derry 2025. Organised by the Connections Chris McDonagh and hosted by former Derry Journal editor, Pat McArt last Thursday night saw a full house at the Culturlann in Great James Street in Derry to hear Linda Ervine give a riveting talk on Turas, the Irish language group which she has established and leads in the loyalist heartland of East Belfast. In a highly entertaining presentation Mrs Ervine explained that her involvement with the Irish language began more than 15 years ago with a bit of curiosity about it, which led to a six-week introduction to Irish with the East Belfast Mission which was, she explained, a community development organisation founded in 1985. With her appetite whetted to the possibilities of the language with this introduction, she then joined a beginners class at the cultural centre An Droichead on the Ormeau Road in Belfast. And the rest, as they say, is history as Turas is now a thriving centre for language enthusiasts On Friday, also at the Culturlann, Dr Cormac Moore gave a talk on the Boundary Commission which played a key role in the ongoing history of this island. A Dublin based historian, Dr Moores recent book The Root of All Evil, gives not only a detailed account of the negotiations leading up to the setting up of partition but also the role of the boundary commission in copper-fastening it. He highlighted three things as being key components British duplicity, unionisms obduracy the not an inch approach to all negotiations, and the incompetence of the Irish member of the Commission, Eoin MacNeill. Derry City, Fermanagh and Tyrone, with their large Catholic majorities, might well have been in the Free State rather than the North had MacNeill been a more adept negotiator. Linda Ervine, pictured at An Cultulann for the second of Thursday's 'Did Ye Hear About? Whose Language? events, as part of Feile 2025. Included from left are Chris McDonagh, Sharon Semple and Pat McArt. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography) And on Tuesday last local man Jimmy Toye was in the Gasyard Centre to give his own unique take on the Battle of the Bogside which he witnessed as a 16 year old in 1969. Jimmys talk also took up to Bloody Sunday and what he also witnessed that day. With his father owning a shop in the Bog, Jimmy explained that they were often at the centre of events, both good and bad. The fact that they had the only phone in the area was also a major attraction for both locals and, amazingly, a whole host of visiting journalists who would breathlessly enter the shop seeking to urgently phone through their copy to the various news desks. In a poignant part of his presentation Jimmy talked movingly about a number of tragedies of local people, particularly the deaths of two young children in separate incidents involving British soldiers. He got a rousing round of applause at the end, one member of the audience pointing out Jimmy, you have taken be back to many days and things I had forgotten.. The mythbuster lectures are part of the Connections A Peace Barrier Project, organised by the Neighbourhood Management Team and funded by the International Fund For Ireland. IN PICTURES: Derry Feile Did Ye Hear About? conversation series The Did Ye Hear About..? series is to continue over the coming months with a number of events taking place throughout the month of August. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. The search for the new Chief Executive of Foyle Port is expected to start in the coming months as the current CEO, Brian McGrath, is set to step down in the second quarter of 2026. McGrath who has led the Port for 22 years and is a past President of the Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, plans to explore new opportunities after driving sustained long-term growth and strategic delivery at Foyle Port. The Port is now well placed for the future thanks to Brians leadership, which has shaped the long-term development of the organisation as a trading and utility platform, offering significant opportunities within marine, renewable and digital sectors. Chair of Foyle Port, Ryan McCready commenting on the announcement said: Brians decision comes after more than two decades of transformative leadership at Foyle Port. The strategic direction that Brian set for the Port during his tenure, and for future years, will leave a lasting legacy in the long history of the Port. We are pleased that he will continue to lead a managed transition as part of our succession planning arrangements. He added: While the precise date of Brians departure will be confirmed in the coming months, the Board at Foyle Port will initiate the search for a successor to ensure a smooth and timely leadership transition. This will be a landmark opportunity to shape the future of Foyle Port. We will be seeking a visionary and dynamic individual who can build on our strong foundation, navigate the shifting trading landscape, and lead the next chapter in our growth. Foyle Port has positioned itself as a critical driver of the regional economy, supporting thousands of jobs across multiple sectors. The new CEO will play a pivotal role in steering strategic investment, sustainability initiatives, and expanding international partnerships. There were smiles all round as students at St. Patricks College, Dungiven collected their A Level results, joined by staff to share the moment and congratulate them on their hard work. This years A2 results were strong across the board - 54% of all grades were A*- A, 76% were A*B and 95% were A*C. The highest achieving A2 student in 2025 was Lisa-Marie Cassidy 2A* A and with notable performances from Shannon Gallagher 2A* 2C, with Sinead Lavery, Tronhan Lynch, Bobbie McGrellis, and Colleen Mullan who all obtained 2A* B. Acting Principal, Mr. McMullan said, The results our students have achieved this year are a real credit to their commitment and the support of our dedicated staff. These grades open doors to an exciting range of opportunities, and were delighted to see our students moving forward with such confidence. Many of our students will now be taking up places on courses such as Radiotherapy, Physiotherapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Criminology, Psychology, Sociology, Communication Advertising & Marketing, Teaching, Nursing, Midwifery, Computer Science and Games Design at universities including Queens University Belfast and the University of Ulster across its three campuses Derry, Coleraine and Jordanstown. "Others are embarking on apprenticeships, moving straight into employment or continuing their studies at FE Colleges. Its rewarding to see each of them pursuing the path that suits them best. IN PICTURES: St. Patrick's College, Dungiven pupils receive their A-Level results We deeply value every individual who has contributed to this success, and I offer heartfelt thanks to our teaching team at St. Patricks, whose expertise and commitment have played a vital role in helping students reach their goals. A special word of congratulations to our AS students who also received excellent results today, your hard work has paid off, which allows you to begin A2 studies with confidence in your ability and further potential. Our top performers for 2025 are Orla Kelly and Molly Higgins each achieving A,A,A with brilliant results also from Liam Bradley, Erin McCloskey, Dararose McElhinney, and Erin McGuinness who all obtained A, A, B. With GCSE results due next week, we look forward to welcoming many of our Year 12 students into Sixth Form, as well as meeting new students from other schools who wish to begin Year 13 studies with us this September. Sixth Form applicants from all schools are encouraged to arrange an interview with our Senior Management Team on Thursday, August 21 and Friday, August 22 to secure a place for 20252026. Please contact our school office on 028 7774 1324 to book an appointment. The number of A* and A grades awarded at A-level in Northern Ireland has risen slightly. More than 25,000 students across the region received their AS and A-level examination results on Thursday. In A-levels, 8.7% of entries achieved the A* grade, compared to 8.2% in 2024, while 30.4% of entries achieved grades A*- A, compared to 30.3% in 2024. Overall, 98.7% of students in Northern Ireland achieved A*- E grades, compared to 98.5% in 2024. Northern Ireland continues to outperform other parts of the UK with nearly 86% of pupils in the region receiving an A* to C grade, while the figures for England and Wales were just under 78%. More than one third (37.3%) of A-level entries in Northern Ireland continue to be in Stem subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Mathematics remains the most popular A-level subject, accounting for one in 10 entries. Boys have achieved a slightly higher rate of A* grades but girls have a higher rate in achieving overall grades A*-E. The total number of A-level entries in Northern Ireland has remained stable with 32,275 entries this year. This year, AS level entries are up from 41,180 in 2024 to 43,362, an increase of 5.3%. The results show that 27.2% of students achieved grade A, compared to 26.7% in 2024. Overall, 96.7% achieved A E grades, compared to 96.4% in 2024. Education Minister Paul Givan congratulated young people across Northern Ireland during a visit to Rathmore Grammar School in Belfast. He said: Their dedication and hard work has truly paid off, and the grades they have achieved are a testament to their commitment and endeavour. Once again, our pupils have delivered an outstanding performance. I wish each of them every success as they take the next step in their journey, whether that is further education, employment, or training. The minister added: Some students may find that their results are not quite what they had hoped for, and I want to reassure them not to lose heart. This is just one part of a much bigger journey. There are many routes available for those still considering their next steps. I encourage them to seek guidance from their school, explore the wide range of opportunities available and take the time they need to make informed decisions. Mr Givan said: I also want to acknowledge and pay tribute to all the teachers across Northern Ireland who continue to work tirelessly to be at the centre of delivering successful education outcomes for our young people. Todays results are testament to their commitment, dedication and passion to shaping the futures of our young people. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn said the students results were a testament to their hard work and the dedication of their teachers, schools and families. He added: This next generation will shape Northern Ireland in the years ahead, bringing their skills and ideas to science, technology, engineering, healthcare and clean energy. These results represent not just individual achievements, but Northern Irelands future prosperity and success, as we back young people across the UK through our plan for change. The majority of A-level and AS-level qualifications are taken through the Northern Ireland exams board CCEA, though some students will also receive grades from English and Welsh exam boards. Most students can get their A and AS-level results online, but some still go to their school to receive their results in person. Gerry Campbell, chief executive of CCEA, said: Congratulations to all the students receiving their results today. This marks a significant step in your personal and educational journey, and everyone at CCEA recognises the dedication and effort that brought you to this point. Your results reflect your resilience, hard work and growth and you should be incredibly proud of what youve achieved. I would also like to thank the teachers, school leaders and support staff whose commitment and guidance have played a crucial role in helping students reach their potential. To every student receiving results today, well done and best of luck as you take your next steps, wherever they may lead. The results you received today are stepping stones to your future, whether that be further education, entering the world of work, or something else. John Trueman, director of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) Northern Ireland, said: The 2025 summer series went well in Northern Ireland and we must congratulate CCEA for clear communication and management of the examinations, marking, awarding and issue of results. We welcome the fact that results this year are broadly similar to those issued in summer 2024. Pixel 10 series launch: Google is all set to introduce the flagship Pixel 10 series next week. The company has already confirmed the lineup will include the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL. The company has also teased the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, hinting that it will debut at the Made by Google 2025. While most of the details about the upcoming devices remain under wraps, here is everything, including the Pixel 10 series release date, specifications, and the price range. The Google Pixel 10 series is confirmed to launch at the Made by Google 2025 on August 20. However, Indian pricing is said to be unveiled the next day. If you want to watch the Google Pixel 10 event live, you can head to Googles official YouTube channel. You can also head to social media platforms for the latest updates and pricing. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 specs The Google Pixel 10 could debut with a bright 6.3-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate panel. It may get Googles latest Tensor G5 chipset with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The device is backed by a 4,970 mAh battery. For photos, the fans can expect a 50MP primary shooter, 48MP ultrawide, and 11MP telephoto lens. The Google Pixel 10 Pro is expected to see some more refinements compared to the Pixel 10 but debut with the same size. It will feature the same Tensor G5 chipset and offer increased RAM and storage variants. The top-end Pixel 10 Pro XL could debut with a bigger and brighter 6.8-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It will also draw its power from the Tensor G5 chipset and may be backed by a 5,200 mAh battery. For the camera, it could get a 50MP primary camera, 48MP ultrawide, and 48MP telephoto. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 India price (Leaked) As per the reports, the Google Pixel 10 is expected to be priced at around Rs 80,000, while the Pixel 10 Pro could be priced at Rs 1,10,000. The Pixel 10 Pro XL is expected to be priced at Rs 1,25,000. 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 reportedly plans US$170M in Japan packaging hub to challenge TSMC Samsung Electronics is reportedly investing JPY25 billion (approx. US$170 million) to set up an advanced packaging research institute in Yokohama and acquire a major office tower in the city's Minato Mirai 21 district. Industry analysts say the move directly challenges TSMC's lead in cutting-edge packaging and reflects a strategic push to leverage Japan's strengths in materials, components, and semiconductor equipment. According to South Korea's Korea Economic Daily, Samsung's Device Solutions unit will build the facility to open by March 2027, recruiting local R&D talent to support the ramp-up. This marks the company's first concrete step since announcing its Japan packaging investment plan in December 2023. Yokohama has designated Samsung as a "Corporate Location Promotion Ordinance Certified Business," unlocking a JPY2.5 billion subsidy. The company has already purchased the 48,000-square-meter Leaf Minato-mirai building, a 12-story structure with four basement levels, and plans to house the research institute and pilot production equipment on select floors. This marks Samsung's first large-scale property acquisition in Japan since it sold a majority stake in its Tokyo Roppongi headquarters in 2015. Closing the gap with TSMC Counterpoint Research data shows TSMC's combined share of wafer foundry, packaging, and testing rose from 29.4% in the first quarter of 2024 to 35.3% in the same period in 2025, fueled by its near-total capture of both foundry and packaging work for AI accelerators integrating high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and GPUs. ASE Technology ranks third with a 6.2% share, behind Intel. TSMC established a packaging research base at the University of Tokyo in 2019 and has used its foundry dominance to push aggressively into 2.5D and 3D packaging. Samsung is the only South Korean company seen as a serious competitor at the high end, providing one-stop foundry and packaging services, though it still lags TSMC in capacity and technical sophistication. Tapping Japan's supply chain strengths Samsung's Yokohama center will work closely with the University of Tokyo and Japanese industry leaders such as Disco, a chip-cutting equipment maker, as well as materials specialists Namics and Resonac. Japan plays a critical role in the global packaging supply chain, and these partnerships could help Samsung speed up its technology catch-up. The University of Tokyo is only a 30-minute trip from Yokohama, and its engineering expertise has already led TSMC to pursue joint research there. Samsung plans to recruit large numbers of the university's master's and doctoral graduates to strengthen its R&D team as the advanced packaging market, valued at US$34.5 billion in 2023, is expected to more than double to US$80 billion by 2032. Article edited by Jack Wu Subscriber content preview SEATTLE Four years back, life-science plans emerged just east of Seattle Center from landowner Diamond Parking, developer Urban Visions and architect Perkins&Will. That site is now mostly parking, and was once home to the Ride the Ducks tour business. It's north of the new skatepark, where Broad Street once ran. Now there's a new seven-story apartment plan at 318 Fifth Ave. N., with no architect obviously attached. It calls for 144 units and 105 underground parking stalls. The latter would be accessed from the east alley. . . . The popular fashion-jewellery retailer Claires, best known for selling colourful necklaces and bracelets aimed at the pre-teen and teenage market, has entered administration. The company, which operates 28 stores here, employs several hundred people across Ireland and nearly 2,000 in the UK. The US owners of the retailer confirmed the appointment of administrators - in the UK and Ireland - following their August 6 bankruptcy filing in the United States, with CEO Chris Cramer calling the decision to officially file a difficult but a necessary one. The owners say they have filed a formal notice to administrators from advisory firm Interpath, which has confirmed the appointment of Will Wright and Chris Pole as joint administrators (for the UK & Ireland). READ NEXT: ALERT: Popular children's toy recalled by Irish retailer amid fears it could be 'unsafe' The development, which will be a major concern to workers, comes as the company has experienced a drop in sales in the wake of weaker levels of consumer demand. As of now, Claires stores across Ireland and the UK will remain open according to the joint administrators. However, the future for the 306 stores (across both countries) remains uncertain. The administrators say that while the chain's physical stores are still open for business, the company has ceased offering online shopping services. Any orders dispatched prior to the appointment of the administrators will be delivered to customers as normal, however any orders that were placed but were not yet dispatched from the warehouse, will not be delivered. The administrators have assured customers they will not be charged for any orders that have been placed but which have not been dispatched. Customers of Claires are being advised that the administrators will be unable to provide any refunds to items bought prior to their appointment. Interpath has assured workers at Claires they will be made aware of further information about what administration means for them. READ NEXT: Ronan Keating and family left with unanswered questions after brother's tragic death Interpath Chief Executive and joint administrator, Will Wright, explained: 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 the options for the company. Mr Wright said one possibility that remains open is a possible sale (of the company) which, he said, "would secure a future for this well loved brand. This is the second time that Claires has filed for bankruptcy in recent years, having filed in 2018 and exiting Chapter 11 bankruptcy (in the United States) in 2022. Owned by a group of investment firms, the company last week blamed increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from brick-and-mortar' retail for the decision to refile for bankruptcy as well as debt obligations to up to 50,000 creditors. Claires Chief Executive, and joint administrator, Chris Cramer, commented: This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claires across all markets. Taking this step now will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward." He added: We are deeply grateful to our customers during this challenging period. The popular fashion-jewellery retailer Claire's, best known for selling colourful necklaces and bracelets aimed at the pre-teen and teenage market, has entered administration. The company, which operates 28 stores here, employs several hundred people across Ireland and nearly 2,000 in the UK. Louth has two Claire's stores. There is one located in the Marshes Shopping Centre in Dundalk, while the second is in the Scotch Hall Shopping Centre in Droheda. The US owners of the retailer confirmed the appointment of administrators - in the UK and Ireland - following their August 6 bankruptcy filing in the United States, with CEO Chris Cramer calling the decision to officially file a "difficult but a necessary one." The owners say they have filed a formal notice to administrators from advisory firm Interpath, which has confirmed the appointment of Will Wright and Chris Pole as joint administrators (for the UK & Ireland). READ NEXT: How one Louth woman used prior learning to advance her education The development, which will be a major concern to workers, comes as the company has experienced a drop in sales in the wake of weaker levels of consumer demand. As of now, Claire's stores across Ireland and the UK will remain open according to the joint administrators. However, the future for the 306 stores (across both countries) remains uncertain. The administrators say that while the chain's physical stores are still open for business, the company has ceased offering online shopping services. Any orders dispatched prior to the appointment of the administrator's will be delivered to customers as normal, however any orders that were placed but were not yet dispatched from the warehouse, will not be delivered. The administrators have assured customers they will not be charged for any orders that have been placed but which have not been dispatched. Customers of Claire's are being advised that the administrators will be unable to provide any refunds to items bought prior to their appointment. Interpath has assured workers at Claire's they will be made aware of "further information about what administration means for them." READ NEXT:Minister shouts news of Tesco-Greenvolt Next partnership from Dundalk rooftop Interpath Chief Executive and joint administrator, Will Wright, explained: "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 the options for the company." Mr Wright said one possibility that remains open is a possible sale (of the company) which, he said, "would secure a future for this well loved brand." This is the second time that Claire's has filed for bankruptcy in recent years, having filed in 2018 and exiting Chapter 11 bankruptcy (in the United States) in 2022. Owned by a group of investment firms, the company last week blamed "increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from 'brick-and-mortar' retail" for the decision to refile for bankruptcy as well as "debt obligations" to up to 50,000 creditors. Claire's Chief Executive, and joint administrator, Chris Cramer, commented: "This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claire's across all markets. Taking this step now will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward." He added: "We are deeply grateful to our customers during this challenging period." Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh OBrien TD was in north Louth this week, for an announcement from Tesco and renewable energy solutions provider, Greenvolt Next Ireland, about a partnership aimed at boosting the retailers solar energy generation. Tesco has joined forces with Greenvolt Next Ireland in a project to significantly boost solar energy capacity at its larger stores across the country. By the end of the year, solar panels will be installed on 24 Tesco locations nationwide, generating an impressive 6MW+ of renewable energy, with 5MW of that coming from its partnership with Greenvolt Next Ireland alone. This solar installation, along with other smaller renewable projects across Tesco Irelands stores, will generate enough clean electricity each year to power around 1,150 homes. A wind turbine at Tescos Distribution Centre at Donabate also generates 1500 MWh of electricity each year, of which 30% feeds back to the national grid. This represents a big step forward and will boost Tescos total renewable energy capacity to 6.2 GWh annually, and copper fasten its status as a sustainability leader in Irish retail. More than 2,000 solar panels have already been installed at Tesco Extra stores in Liffey Valley and Naas, while the latest phase, saw solar panel installations completed at Tesco Extra stores in Dundalk, Clearwater, and Arklow, and at Superstores in Carrick-on-Shannon and Ballybeg. Read also: Dundalk Bay Seafoods pioneers countrys first-ever AI-powered shellfish grader Solar panels can provide up to 20% of a stores electricity needs, easing pressure on the national grid and helping support the Government's efforts to reach EU targets on carbon emissions. Geoff Byrne, CEO at Tesco Ireland, said: We are fully committed to being carbon neutral in our own operations by 2035, and this is a strategic priority for us. Having on-site renewable energy generation is a key part of that plan. "We are delighted to have the endorsement of Minister Darragh OBrien for this important initiative and with Greenvolt Next Irelands support, we will significantly boost our total renewable energy generation while reducing demand on the national electricity grid. Speaking at the Tesco Extra Store in Dundalk, Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh OBrien TD said: Its a very positive step forward to see Tesco harnessing the massive potential of solar energy to provide cheaper, green energy for their larger stores. "This will without a doubt significantly reduce the stores carbon footprint and contribute in a very positive way to Irelands sustainability agenda. Owen Power, CEO of Greenvolt Next Ireland, commented: The large flat roof spaces of big retail units provide an excellent opportunity to seamlessly integrate solar panels, reducing both energy costs and emissions. "Tesco has been a front-runner in adopting renewable energy, and we are delighted to be enhancing its solar energy capacity further, helping Tesco meet its ambitious decarbonisation goals. 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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe A timeline for the roll-out of updated payment methods on buses in Cork is not available, a spokesperson for the National Transport Authority (NTA) has said. This follows calls from Labour party councillor for the Cork City South East Ward, Peter Horgan, for enhanced ticketing to be fast-tracked. The NTA has appointed Indra Sistemas SA to equip the entire state-subsidised public transport network in Ireland with new ticketing equipment capable of accepting bank cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, QR codes (both paper and app-based), TFI Leap Cards, and the public services card for free travel, the NTA said. This initiative, referred to as next-generation ticketing (NGT), will ultimately see new ticketing equipment being deployed on all public service operator (PSO) operators nationwide. The timeframe for the roll-out of next generation ticketing to all public service obligation (PSO) transport services in Cork is not yet available. The authority is currently progressing the approvals necessary to secure the funding for the BusConnects Cork programme under which NGT will be delivered for the Cork bus fleet, they added. The preliminary business case (PBC) for this has been submitted and, once approved, NTA can commence the planning of the implementation of NGT in Cork. Mr Horgan said that the introduction of the Leap card onboarding system needs to happen, but it is only a stopgap to where we should have been years ago. Advocating for better Cork transport is crucial in improving congestion issues across our city and metropolitan area and we need political priority placed behind it, said Mr Horgan. Cork should have it rolled out first and I will continue to advocate for that Cork-first priority. The capacity on the network is critical to take on the facts are showing people want public transport options. Lets provide that, he added. We need a definite date for the new expanded network and we need it rolled out before the return school-traffic chaos. Mr Horgan additionally highlighted the need for increased late-night transportation for the jazz weekend. Lets start with the jazz and the run-up to Christmas, but late-night buses are a must if we want Cork to reach its full potential. Star on the red carpet for movie premiere of Christy in Mahon Danny Power, star of the Irish film Christy, with family and friends on the red carpet at the premiere at the Omniplex at Mahon Point Shopping Centre in Cork. Picture: Chani Anderson Councillor to host Marina walking tour for Heritage Week As part of National Heritage Week, independent councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Kieran McCarthy, will host a free historical walking tour of The Marina. National Heritage Week, taking place across Cork city and county from August 16 to August 24, celebrates Irelands cultural, built and natural heritage by bringing together volunteers, community groups and heritage enthusiasts to share their experience, knowledge culture and practices. As part of the nine-day festival, of which the theme is Exploring our Foundations, Mr McCarthy will deliver a free historical walking tour of the Marina on August 22 from 6.30pm. There is no prior booking required for the tour, with a meeting point set at the western end of The Marina, adjacent to the Shandon Boat Club. Mr McCarthy said that the tour will provide attendees with insight into the evolution of The Marina. A stroll down The Marina is popular by many people, said Mr McCarthy. The area is characterised by its location on the River Lee and start of Cork harbour. Here, scenery, historical monuments and living heritage merge to create a rich tapestry of questions of who developed such a place of ideas. Where not all the answers have survived, The Marina is lucky that archives, autobiographies, census records, diaries, old maps and insights have survived and give insight into how the area developed. These give an insight into ways of life and ambitions in the past, some of which can help the researcher in the present day in understanding The Marinas evolution and sense of place going forward. A full listing of Mr McCarthys other walking tours for National Heritage Week are available on his website at www.corkheritage.ie. Mahon Point Taekwon-Do classes resume September 2 Taekwon-Do classes will be returning to Mahon Point from September 2, for people of all ages. The classes, every Wednesday, from 7.15pm to 8.15pm, will be taught by Cork ITF Taekwon-Do, in the community room. Instructors are Leonard Coughlan, a 6th-degree black belt with more than 30 years of experience, and Martyna Coughlan, a 2nd-degree black belt with a background in physical education. Participants will learn martial arts, develop self-defence, improve fitness, meet people, and receive invitations to participate in local, national, and international events. Classes are available for children as young as four. See www.corkitf@gmail.com. Ballinlough Summer Festival Organisers of the Ballinlough Summer Festival, on August 30, are calling on the public to take part in their Grandparents of The Year competition. In a post on social media, a spokesperson said they are looking for nominations for the best grandparents from members of the Mahon, Blackrock, and surrounding communities Nominators are asked to detail why their grandparents deserve the Grandparents of The Year title in a few short lines, with a deadline for nominations of August 23. For more information, or to submit a nomination, email: ballinloughsummerfestival@gmail.com. Rowing Club regatta The Blackrock Rowing Club has announced a Mini Fun Regatta as part of the Blackrock Village Festival. The festival will take place on August 23 from 1pm, with the regatta at 3pm. In a post shared on social media, a spokesperson said that their members will be joined by a number of rival clubs to hash it out on the water for all the village to see. If youre interested in giving it a go for the new season, give us your details, the spokesperson added. For more information, call 083 1863986. Members of the Blackrock Rowing Club at the recent Rushbrooke regatta. Sewage smell at cemetery A representative from Uisce Eireann has said that crews are investigating reports of a sewage smell in the Ballinure/St Michaels Cemetery. A report was made to the agency by Independent councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Kieran McCarthy, on behalf of the residents of St Michaels Drive. A good number of people have contacted me about the sewage smell in and around Ballinure/St Michaels Cemetery area, said Mr McCarthy. I reported the matter to Uisce Eireann, [and] they have confirmed to me that they are investigating the matter. The Uisce Eireann spokesperson said that the agency is aware that this issue is a source of concern for residents. As soon as further information becomes available, a member of our team will be in contact, they said. Your continued patience and understanding are greatly appreciated, whilst we investigate. There are 7,661 people waiting for a driving test in Cork, a situation that is completely unacceptable, Sinn Fein TD Donnchadh O Laoghaire has said. Figures from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) show that for the Sarsfield Rd testing centre, 4,464 people are waiting on a driving test, and in Ballincollig and Mallow there are 516 and 1,855 people, respectively, with a further 826 people waiting in Skibbereen. The RSA website shows that people who book a test now in Wilton should receive a date for the first week in December, while people in Mallow will be waiting until the third week of December. For Skibbereen, the estimated date is the third week of October. No estimated date is provided for Ballincollig, which does not test private car drivers. An RSA spokesperson said: The driver testing estimate time to invite for an individual waiting for their driving test is personalised and dependent on a number of factors specific to that applicants circumstances. An applicant can also pause their application, reschedule, or cancel their test, and each of these actions will have an impact on their overall waiting time for an invitation. Mr O Laoghaire said: This is completely unacceptable. This problem is particularly bad in Cork, and it is simply not good enough. These are people who are eligible to sit their test, who need their driving licence to get to work and drop kids to school. These are young people who look forward to passing their test and gaining some independence, and they are waiting and waiting to be issued with a test date, unclear as to when a slot will become available. I have been contacted by constituents whose employment is at risk, due to being unable to transport themselves to and from their place of work, and it is a devastating blow for learner drivers, who are trying to plan their work and family life. He added: Public transport is not always an option, particularly for night workers or those living or working in more remote areas. As well as that, in Cork, public transport cannot always be relied upon. Applications for tests have risen steadily over the last number of years, and there is a clear failure by the minister and the Department of Transport, in terms of their workforce planning. Failing to plan and prepare has been a consistent theme throughout both the last and the current governments term. Mr O Laoghaire said that he will be writing to transport minister Darragh OBrien, urging him to seek a solution as a matter of urgency. This cant be pushed down the agenda any longer, said Mr O Laoghaire. The minister and the department arent treating this issue with the urgency it deserves. An Comisiun Pleanala has upheld Cork City Councils decision to grant permission for 550 homes in Dunkettle, Glanmire, despite an appeal by local residents. OFlynn Construction was granted permission by the local authority in April for the homes, part of phase one of a larger project, which aims to see more than 1,000 homes developed at the site. The developers stated in planning documentation: The proposed development will function as a natural extension to the town of Glanmire by consolidating development in the area and ensuring the retention of a compact settlement. Demolition The plans include the demolition of existing structures at the site and the construction of 394 houses a mixture of two-, three-, and four-bed semi-detached and terraced units as well as 156 apartment/duplex units, a mixture of one- and two-bed units in 10 blocks ranging in height from two to six storeys. A creche with capacity for 144 children and three commercial units are also included in the proposal, as well as a new vehicular access and a new pedestrian access, footpaths, cycle lanes, bicycle and car parking, and upgrades to road markings. An Comisiun Pleanalas decision comes amid multiple appeals by nearby residents, including the Dunkettle Residents Association. Over 20 objections had also been made to the initial planning application with the council, with locals raising concerns about the L2998s capacity to take more traffic, an absence of public transport serving the developments location, and wildlife in the area. Gardai have appealed for witnesses to a fatal road traffic collision on the Cork to Limerick road this morning. The collision involving two cars occurred just before 7.30am in Croom, Limerick. A man in his 40s was pronounced deceased at the scene, and a woman in her 30s was hospitalised with injuries a garda spokesperson said are believed to be serious. Gardai are appealing for witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision on the N20 at Ballyouragan, Croom, Co. Limerick this morning, Thursday 14th August 2025," the spokesperson told The Echo. The collision occurred at approximately 7.25am and involved two cars. A man, aged in his 40s, was pronounced deceased at the scene. A woman, aged in her 30s, has been taken to hospital for treatment of injuries believed to be serious. No other injuries were reported. The spokesperson said the road remains closed to facilitate a technical examination by garda forensic collision investigators, and local diversions are in place. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them, asking any road users who may have camera footage, including dash-cam, and were travelling in the area between 7.00am and 7.30am this morning to make this footage available to investigating gardai. Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on 061 212400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station. Fota Wildlife Park has announced the birth of two endangered red panda cubs, born on June 7, at the Cork conservation centre. The cubs are the offspring of mother Suzi, who arrived at Fota Wildlife Park from Berlin Zoo, and father Grga, who was transferred from Zagreb Zoo in Croatia in June 2019. For now, the cubs remain in the nesting box, sleeping and nursing with their mother, and are not yet visible to the public. In the next three weeks, the cubs will start to explore the habitat outside their nesting box for brief periods in the early morning or late evening under the careful supervision of their mother. Were absolutely delighted to announce the births of the two red pandas, lead ranger Julien Fonteneau said. 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. Endangered The red panda is listed as endangered, with its population declining in the wild. The parents at Fota Wildlife Park are part of the European Endangered Species Programme, a collaborative initiative among European zoos and wildlife parks to ensure the survival of threatened species through co-ordinated breeding efforts. The species decline in the wild is primarily due to habitat loss and poaching across its native range in the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. 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, Mr Fonteneau said. Awareness 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. 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. Fota Wildlife Park is calling on the public to help name the new cubs, to be in with a chance of winning one of two conservation annual passes. Name suggestions can be entered via the wildlife parks blog at https://www.fotawildlife.ie/blogs/news. There have been 253 arrests for sexual assault in Cork in the last five years, with Cork city seeing its lowest figures in that time last year. New Garda data broken down by division shows that across Cork, there were 57 arrests in 2020, 61 in 2021, 48 in 2022, 45 in 2023, and 42 in 2024, the most recent year for which data is available. In Cork city, there were a total of 108 sexual assault arrests; 26 in 2020, 28 in 2021, 19 in 2022, 20 in 2023, and just 15 last year. Cork county had a total of 145 arrests. There were 31 in 2020, 33 in 2021, 29 in 2022, 25 in 2023, and 27 in 2024. Nationally, Cork county had the seventh-highest amount of arrests out of the 21 Garda divisions, with Wexford/Wicklow having the highest total, followed by Waterford/Kilkenny. Cork city placed 13th in the table, with Sligo/Leitrim having the fewest arrests. Under reporting Justice minister Jim OCallaghan, who revealed the data via parliamentary question recently, said historically there has been significant under-reporting of sexual assault and similar crimes. He said: My department is continuing to work with agencies to strengthen trust in the criminal justice system, so that victims can feel confident to come forward and report what happened to them. Divisional protective service units, now in place in every Garda division in Ireland, ensure that when victims of crimes such as domestic abuse and sexual violence present to gardai, they are met with a consistently high standard of specialist, sensitive, professional and expert assistance, he said. I want to reassure anyone who is subject to, or at risk of, domestic or sexual abuse that practical help is always available. Not taking the opportunity of BusConnects to fit noise-reduction measures will be a missed opportunity, a former lord mayor of Cork has said. The preliminary business case for BusConnects Cork is currently being considered by the Department of Transport, and the National Transport Authority (NTA) is set to submit compulsory purchase order packs, to acquire land for the project, to An Coimisiun Pleanala this year. The redesigned bus network is due to be rolled out in phases from mid-2026 and involves the creation of new bus routes and improved bus frequencies. The NTA has procured a contractor for construction works providing bus stops, bus layover, turnabouts etc and has commenced these works across the city which are expected to be complete in Q1 2026. Subject to funding availability, it is intended that the new network will be implemented on a phased basis, beginning in 2026 and running into 2027. Noise barriers Mick Finn, former Independent Cork city councillor, has called for Taoiseach Micheal Martin to step up for his own area and get noise barriers installed. Mr Finn told The Echo: Having made a submission, as a councillor, to install noise amelioration barriers on the South Link as part of BusConnects, I have been informed its unlikely to happen. Im calling on the Taoiseach to get this done. I doubt the other South Central TDs even know its such an issue for residents of Capwell, Turners Cross, and Curragh Road. Mr Finn had asked the NTA BusConnects Cork team to include this as part of the new plan, and received the following response: For the South City Link Road between Mick Barry Road and South Douglas Road, the current noise assessment is indicating an imperceptible/positive impact in the design year, so no noise prevention measures are currently being proposed for the scheme in the area. Mr Finn said: My point is that BusConnects investment affords the opportunity to do something for residents that should have been done in the 90s. They are living with huge noise issues these have to be compounded by extra buses, no matter what is said. EARLIER this month, US president Donald Trump delivered a new threat in his protectionist trade war with the rest of the world: Tariffs on pharmaceuticals. In the next 18 months, he plans to introduce a 150% tariff on imported pharmaceuticals and then raise it to 250% at an unspecified later date. He mentioned Ireland as a problem when he declared that he wanted US pharmaceutical manufacturers to bring jobs back home. This new threat comes on top of the recent agreement on a blanket 15% tariff on EU imports to the US, which was hammered out by Mr Trump and EU Commission president Ursula Von Der Leyen in Scotland last month. The announcement must have set off alarm bells in government buildings, at the IDA, in corporate offices, the dozens of US pharma companies operating here, and the homes of the 10,000 or so people in Cork whom those companies directly employ. According to Cork City Councils estimates, more than 30 pharmaceutical and life sciences companies have a base in Cork, directly employing more than 10,000 people. Those 30 include seven of the 10 largest pharmaceutical companies: Janssen, Pfizer, Merck/MSD, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and AbbVie. In addition, Cork manufactures six of the top 10 most lucrative drugs in the world, each selling more than $1bn (850m) worth a year. Reacting to the latest broadside from Mr Trump, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: Tariffs are not good for the world economy, theyre not good for people; workers or consumers. He said that the United Statess global dominance in pharmaceuticals is because of their footprint around the world, including in Ireland. Ireland has added value and strength to those companies, and I would say to the president he needs to factor that in to the equation. Those companies will be damaged and undermined if such politics were to bear fruit. That potential damage to pharma companies bottom lines is likely the biggest road block for the tariffs, not the concerns of European leaders or needs of patients relying on these crucial drugs. The pharmaceutical industry is worth hundreds of billions of dollars to the US economy. At the top is Johnson & Johnson it has two bases in Cork, through its Janssen subsidiary which had revenue of $88.2bn (75bn) in 2024. Other revenue giants include Merck ($64.17bn/55bn), Pfizer ($63.63bn/54bn), and AbbVie ($56.33bn/48bn). The pharma industry has long had the biggest lobby budget in Washington, though usually aimed at more co-operative policy makers. With pro-tariff Mr Trump in the White House and anti-everything Robert Kennedy heading the USs health department, the cosy corporate-political relationships of old are being challenged. Since the election, pharma companies have been beefing up their lobbying budgets. They have found alignment with Republicans on controversial issues around pricing and tax breaks, but these extreme tariffs are something they will have to find a way to confront. As the second Trump administration started blasting out policy goals earlier this year, the phrase TACO kept doing the rounds: Trump Always Chickens Out. That was fairly true in his first term. During the 2016 campaign, he made all kinds of promises and throughout his time in office he offered a constant stream of big new ideas via Twitter or the pulpit at his rallies. While this stream-of-conscious approach to politics dominated the news cycle, it rarely translated to actual policy. During his first term, Mr Trumps most extreme ideas were tamed by a strong civil service and a Republican party that saw him as a means to many ends, but not a true leader. Upon his re-election, many expected the same thing: Big ideas with no follow through, while the adults in the room kept things in check. But as 2025 has rolled on, the world is realising that there are no adults in the room. During his time in the wilderness after losing the 2020 election, Mr Trump somehow reshaped the Republican party in his image. The traitors have been exiled and the loyalists promoted. From the day of his second inauguration, he has gutted departments of staff at every level and torn down every guardrail he could see. With the rulebook ripped asunder and the federal government under his thumb, no one can force him to do anything. No more negotiation, no more brinkmanship contort yourself to Mr Trumps wishes or suffer your fate. Looking towards the site of the Janssen pharmaceutical plant at Ringaskiddy, Cork. Picture Dan Linehan The true art of the deal has finally shown its face. The only defence the rest of the world has is time. Were now half a year in to a four-year term though whos counting? and the next administration is likely to change tack. While protectionism has its usefulness, it hasnt been popular in its broadest forms for the better part of a century. Mr Trump is certainly an outlier in terms of mainstream US politics, where global dominance has been built by tearing down trade barriers, not building them up. Corks pharma cluster didnt develop overnight, and it cant easily be picked up and moved elsewhere, either. While Mr Trump expects them to shutter their factories in Ringaskiddy and relocate stateside, thats not a realistic option for any major pharmaceutical company, especially not on the timeframe of a single four-year presidential term. Building a factory takes years. Building a supply chain takes years. Building a talent pool takes years. If you wanted to relocate a whole operation from Cork to Colorado, youre talking timelines far beyond the horizon of the Trump administration, and likely a few more presidents after him. Novartis was the first major pharma company to plant its flag in Cork, and that was in the 1950s. As the decades rolled on, more and more companies moved in and Cork reshaped itself around them. Supply chains for everything from raw materials to machinery have long established routes to Ringaskiddy. For every major pharma company, there are many smaller companies offering additional outsourced expertise. University College Cork and Munster Technological University churn out thousands of highly qualified pharma workers each year, many of whom will have already worked in one of the major companies during their degree, and those are just the universities in Cork. Highly skilled and experienced workers bounce around between companies, and many more from abroad are attracted in. Sure, the taxes are a big part of the deal, but a cluster like that is hard to find and even harder to replace. As the Taoiseach said, Ireland doesnt subtract value, it adds it. While pharmaceutical companies might invest more in the States to strengthen their operations and shield certain drugs from tariffs, a massive relocation of operations based on the whims of a single anomaly of a president would be madness. With that said, tariffs cant be ruled out, and they will have an effect. EU leaders thought they could call Mr Trumps bluff earlier this year, but now were facing 15% on our exports with nothing in return. While lobbying and industrial realities might stay his hand, the 250% threat might come down, but any percentage would still have a significant effect on trade. Reason is out the window, and all we can do is wait. Tariffs wont make America great again when goods made cheaper abroad While Donald Trumps approach to tariffs might be extreme, its what many of his working-class voters in hollowed-out industrial states voted for. Mr Trump has an archaic vision of the United States as a manufacturing powerhouse, where goods are made by Americans, just like the good old days. And millions of voters who agree with him hence the policy having seen factory after factory shut down, with no transition for workers while the market gets flooded with cheaper, imported goods. While those class concerns are valid, that version of the American dream is unrealistic in todays interconnected world, where mechanisation and low-cost labour squeeze people out. Were that dream to come to pass, the disruption to costs and currencies would be immense as people realise that their access to low-cost consumer goods was built on decades of outsourcing production to lower-income countries. Its a problem of globalisation that Ireland knows about. A good case study is the sugar beet industry. In 2006, it was announced that Mallows Greencore sugar plant the last of its kind in Ireland was to shut down. The move followed a shift in trade policy from the EU, which removed tariffs on sugar imports from non-EU countries. Previously, a combination of sugar quotas and tariffs had buoyed up the sugar industry across Europe, including in Ireland. But, sugar beet-growing Europe cant compete on production with the sugar cane-growing countries in warmer climates in the global south, much in the same way that its hard to compete with the Irish climates unique suitability for dairy and our export domination. The disappearance of the sugar beet industry was devastating for Mallow, just as it had been for towns like Carlow and Thurles, where plants had closed already. Some 330 people in Mallow were laid off, in an industry that employed upwards of 10,000 at its peak. Many people still long for the days of sugar production and the stable income it brought for so many families around the country. And with a spike in prices in recent years, due to shifts in supply and demand around the world, there has been much talk of a return to sugar beet production, because, even with lower yields and higher prices, it could be viable again. But would it work? Ireland has changed. Sugar production is just one of the many industries we have lost over the last few decades, but our unemployment rate stands at just 4%, a 24-year low. Competition between employers is high and low-paying general labour roles are only being filled by immigrants. Two-thirds of Irish school leavers go on to higher education. The children of factory workers are working in high-skill, high-pay jobs. Theyre the ones working in the pharma and tech industries, the engines of the modern Irish economy. Theyre not longing for the back-breaking days on the beet. More employment at all levels can only ever be a good thing, but you cant turn back the hands of time. And thats a lesson that the US is going to learn the hard way in the years ahead. Our reliance on FDI exposed The trade war has brought to the fore an existential crisis for the Irish economy that our leaders have neglected for too long : Our reliance on foreign direct investment (FDI). For decades, weve boasted of our strength as a small, open economy, and its true, because there is no modern Ireland without opening ourselves up to trade. But that wasnt always the case. After independence, Ireland pursued a policy of protectionism to build up domestic industry after centuries of British extractive colonialism. By taxing foreign imports early, governments believed they could stimulate industry, create jobs, and build a strong, resilient society. Instead, Irish people were leaving the country in droves to seek opportunities elsewhere, while those who remained were stuck between a rock and a hard place. In the 1950s, Sean Lemass one of the architects of protectionism became taoiseach around the same time that TK Whitaker rose to prominence in the Department of Finance. Born just a few months after the Easter Rising of 1916, in which most Irish leaders of the 1950s had served, Mr Whitaker was one of a new generation of Irish people coming to power who had a different vision for the country. In his landmark First Programme for Economic Expansion, he laid out the inevitability of free trade and how Ireland should embrace it and grow. That same spirit was echoed in other departments and across many industries in Ireland. As war-ravaged Europe figured out that building interdependence through trade was the most sustainable way of securing peace, Ireland pushed to be a part of this new, emerging order. By the 1970s, Ireland had joined the European Economic Community, and more and more international firms were seeing the value of doing business here. The rest is history. Ireland is now the country of choice for multinational firms trading in Europe, with major clusters in tech and pharmaceuticals, among many other industries. But our reliance on those companies has come in to stark relief in a world where free trade is in decline and instability reigns. In 2023, corporation tax receipts made up more than a quarter of the States total tax take, and thats been rising every year. Multinationals were responsible for upwards of 84% of those corporate tax receipts, with just a handful of companies accounting for much of it. Additionally, due to other taxes, like Vat and the income taxes of people employed by multinationals, about 55% of the States tax intake likely comes through FDI. Theres a saying that when America sneezes, the world catches a cold. Ireland is more likely facing pneumonia. A small, open economy is great when the going is good, but it also means were incredibly exposed to things far beyond our control. Economists, industry, civil servants, and think tanks have been warning about this for years, and the second Trump presidency has shown how our relationship with the US is far less stable than we thought. This may be the event that finally shifts our priorities to start bolstering our own industries in the years ahead. Work is ongoing on a plan to partner with businesses to offer toilet facilities for older people, four months after the plans were agreed, Cork City Council has said. The Leeside Leithreas initiative was agreed in April of this year as part of the citys age-friendly city strategy 2025-2029, which has 42 actions, covering topics such as health, housing, transportation, communication, and civic participation. A spokesperson for the council provided an update on the progress of these initiatives to The Echo, including that a new age-friendly older peoples council (OPC) is now in place for Cork city. Meeting six times per year, this council is tasked with progressing the actions in the Cork city age-friendly strategy. It is also now in the process of forming subgroups to look at the actions listed in the current age-friendly strategy, including the development of the Leeside Leithreas initiative. The spokesperson explained: Under the strategic theme of outdoor spaces and public buildings, aim number 37 states to Roll out the Leeside Leithreas initiative in businesses and workplaces. This scheme proposed that businesses near amenity areas would agree to make their toilets available to the public. An opt in discrete window sticker indicates businesses who are part of the scheme. This initiative will be promoted as part of the delivery of the age-friendly business recognition programme in partnership with the Local Enterprise Office, Corks age-friendly forum, OPC, and Alliance, CBA [Cork Business Association], and Cork Chamber. Preparation for delivery of this age-friendly business recognition programme is currently under way with voluntary training for local businesses to commence as soon as possible, they added. It comes as Cork advocate for the elderly, Paddy OBrien, recently told The Echo that the lack of toilet facilities was having a huge impact: I speak to senior citizens on a regular basis, and they complain about this all the time I cant understand why there is such a shortage of this essential service. Some senior citizens tell me they are confined in their homes and would not venture into the city centre for lack of public toilets. Some cafes and restaurants do not allow customers to use toilet facilities. Irish Rail has announced additional services from Cork for Oasis fans ahead of their Croke Park concerts this weekend Saturday, August 16, and Sunday, August 17. On top of the scheduled services, Irish Rail will operate an additional 8am train from Cork Kent to Dublin Heuston on Saturday, along with a 7.45am service on Sunday. Following the concerts on both nights, there will be a 12.40am service from Dublin Heuston to Cork Kent. Irish Rail is advising customers to book their seats as soon as possible on both dates, with some services already sold out. For further information and to book tickets, visit https://www.irishrail.ie/ Brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher announced last August that they would perform together for the first time since Oasiss dramatic split in 2009. The Oasis Live 25 tour kicked off in Cardiffs Principality Stadium in July before moving on to Manchester, London, and Edinburgh. The concerts at Croke Park sold out as soon as tickets went on sale. However, some have sporadically appeared on Ticketmaster through resale. The group will also head to Japan, South Korea, South America, Australia, and North America. An investigation by the Health and Safety Authority into the death of a contract worker at a Cork factory over two years ago is still ongoing, an inquest has heard. John Murphy, aged 41, a married father from Condonstown, Watergrasshill, sustained third-degree burns across 75% of his body, after a suspected explosion at US medical-device manufacturer Strykers plant in Carrigtwohill on April 18, 2023. He died from his injuries almost two months later on June 9, 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. A colleague of the deceased was also injured. 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. An inspector with the Health and Safety Authority, Frank Kearns, told a brief sitting of Dublin District Coroners Court 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 DPP. The HSA inspector noted the death had taken place in 2023, but added such cases do take a lot of time. Mr Kearns said he would ensure 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 as criminal proceedings are being considered. 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, 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. Next month, I will join a group of people in embarking on a pilgrimage to the grave of a woman I believe is a modern-day saint. I know most people think of saints as those who lived way, way back in time in an era when the definition of sainthood was a bit hazy. From our youth, we all remember the Litany of the Saints. It was often said after the Rosary, part of the trimmings when saints name after saints name was recited and we responded pray for us, pray for us, pray for us for what seemed like an eternity. Apparently, up until around the 12th century there wasnt rhyme nor reason to how a person was declared a saint. Since that time, only the pope of the day has the authority to make such a pronouncement - the process is referred to as canonisation. So it seems that some saints like Philomena and Christopher are kind of halfway to heaven when it comes to sainthood! In June this year, I trod the familiar paths and lanes once walked by St Bernadette in Lourdes, and a month later walked the fields and meadows where little children Francesco, Jacinta and Lucia met Our Lady in Fatima. A century after the Fatima apparitions began in 1917, both Francesco and Jacinta were declared saints - the cause of Lucia is still under investigation. Now on to the lady who I have no doubt is a modern-day saint. You know how you might have a leisurely conversation with someone when time is plentiful and the living is easy? Well, thats how it happened. Talking about Lourdes, the weather, the Munster Final and the price of cattle - you know yourself; well, we were chatting about all the problems in the world at present. Then we got a bit more positive and talked of all the absolutely wonderful people that have made the world a better place. My friend mentioned the name of a remarkable woman to me - yes, Id heard of her before around the time of her death back a few years ago. A fleeting name in my mind but something told me to find out more about her. Back in 1975, Swedish pop star Harpo had a huge hit right across the world with the song Moviestar - ye all might know the catchy chorus Movie star, movie star You think you are a movie Movie star, movie star You think you are a movie star Those lyrics summed up the dreams and thoughts of so many young people who had ambitions to be a real star on the silver screen. One such girl was Clare Crockett, from the Brandywell district in the City of Derry. Born in 1982 - one of three sisters - Clare and her parents Gerard and Margaret experienced all the trials, tribulations and horrors of the Troubles. Derry was a divided city and nationalist families like the Crocketts knew all about discrimination and sectarianism. From an early age, Clare was an extrovert with her radiant smile and bright and bubbly personality. Though from a Catholic family, she herself admitted the practise of the faith was not uppermost in her mind. As a child, she loved performing -singing, playing music, and acting, and was never as happy as when she had a guitar in her hand in front of a microphone. The phrase wild thing could well have been coined for her during her teens. She wasnt troublesome and caused no huge problems for her parents, but boy did she love to party! Like so many of her generation, Clare took the Confirmation pledge at 12, promising to abstain from alcohol until she was at least 18. That solemn promise went out the window when she was just 13! She really wanted to be a movie star and a really famous one; all or nothing, a phrase that summed up her life. At just 14, she answered a newspaper ad which stated, Are you dreaming of becoming an actor on the big screen? Opportunity beckoned and soon Clares undivided attention - though still in school - was towards the movie world. At 15, she was a presenter with Channel 4 and had her own manager. By 16, she was with the USA-based Nickelodeon company. Clare lived by the mantra, Girls just wanna have fun, so parties, discos, and nightclubs were part and parcel of her teenage years. You know that phrase, I still havent found what Im looking for? Well, despite her fame and money-earning capacity, and a sheaf of offers from the acting and film worlds, young Clare Crockett was undecided as to what direction to go. She loved the bright lights, the craic, the fags, and the drink, and religion wasnt high on her bucket list. A group called Christ in Others Retreat (COR) had been formed in Derry to help with reconciliation through prayer. Clare wasnt one of the first to sign up, but friends persuaded her to go on a weekend retreat under the auspices of COR. After the retreat, her initial reaction concerning the participants was Theyre all mad! That was in 1999. A new religious community, The Home of The Mother, was founded in Spain in 1982 - the year of Clares birth. This community were invited to Derry by COR and then in return they asked that a youth group from Derry travel to Spain for Holy Week in the year 2000. Sharon Doherty, a close friend of Clares, was to travel but a burst appendix meant she couldnt go. She rang Clare and asked: Would you like to go to Spain for a week - all paid for? Dreaming of sun, sand and sangria in Ibiza, Clare jumped at the opportunity. The group travelled to the small Spanish town of Priego in Cuenca province. Clare was both shocked and disappointed to find they were staying in a monastery for the duration of Holy Week! They say God works in mysterious ways, and by heavens what happened on that Good Friday of the year 2000 is proof positive of that truism. Clare thought, If you cant beat em, join em, so she went along to the Easter ceremonies. The world and future of Clare Crockett changed in an instant when she knelt to kiss the feet of Jesus nailed to the Cross. She summed it all up later in one sentence: I had to do something for Him who had given His life for me. By God, did she do something! This vivacious and charismatic girl saw her path unfold far away from Hollywood. Instead, she joined the Order of the Home of The Mother. She travelled to Spain, to Ireland, the Holy Land - all over the world - winning hearts, souls, and minds with her message of love of God and service to others. Smiling, laughing, praying, singing, teaching, hugging, and just radiating love. She took her final vows in Madrid in September, 2010, with her family present. The Orders founder, Fr Rafael, gave her the motto for her life, Alone with Christ Alone. Clare Crockett embraced her religious vocation with a zest and a passion that was amazing. She had wanted to be a famous movie star - all or nothing - and now she became a nun, indeed a famous nun, teaching and preaching and joyously proclaiming her role in life. Tragically, that life was far too short. In April, 2016, Clare was working in a school in Ecuador that was struck by an earthquake. Sister Clare Marie of the Trinity and the Heart of Mary was just 33 when she died as the school building collapsed. She was brought home and buried in the City Cemetery in Derry. Her path to sainthood, in my mind, is absolutely certain. I have never been to lovely Derry on the banks of the Foyle but have been invited to do so next month. On September 19, a bus pilgrimage sets out from Cork via Knock to visit the grave of this remarkable woman -truly a saint of our times. Cork has a vibrant film industry, attracting both national and international productions throughout the city and county. However, there is potential for it to grow even more. To realise this, a dedicated group of film-makers has come together to establish Screen Cork, an organisation focused on transforming the place into a filmmaking hub. The Cork producer and actor Sinead ORiordan has added board member to her resume, and as a founding member of Screen Cork, says the timing is perfect to get Corks film industry the attention it deserves. Our mission is to transform Cork into a film-making hub where all knowledge about ongoing film projects is centralised, she explained. We aim to be the go-to resource for anyone seeking information or resources related to films being shot in the area. To achieve this, we plan to establish a database for crew members and actors, detailing their availability and skills. Additionally, we want to create a local rental service for essential filmmaking equipment, eliminating the need to source basic necessities from outside Cork. When people think of film-making, they often overlook the logistics that go on behind the scenes. ORiordan says many elements need to be considered, and that Screen Cork will help film-makers get access. ORiordans film, Swing Bout, was filmed at Pairc Ui Chaoimh. She saw first-hand the difficulties in acquiring the essentials needed for a cast and crew. She hopes to see Screen Cork streamline the production set-up process and make it easier for Cork talent to work at home. I had to bring a crew down from Dublin. I had to find accommodation and feed them, so we needed resources for film catering, portable toilets, and all the essential items that can be challenging to arrange, said ORiordan. With our initiative, we will create databases and contacts that will make it easier for all productions, especially smaller or independent ones that dont have a Hollywood budget, to facilitate these needs. ORiordan highlights that Cork has abundant talent both on screen and behind the scenes, but often crew members need to leave the county for work. Screen Cork aims to change this situation. We have students coming out of college in Cork, trained as crew and cast, they have to go into Dublin and further for work, because the work isnt there. Now, productions are coming in, but not at the rate they should be. Up until now, there hasnt been a single body that can advocate for productions coming in. There is no central place where we can gather and then disperse the information. If producers knew the talent available in Cork, they would be drawn in; it is about raising our profile and liaising with the right people. The producer says Corks film industry could rival Dublin and Wicklow. With high-profile shows like Bodkin being made here by companies like Netflix, it is essential to capitalise on the attention now. Cork currently lacks a film officer and a dedicated film space, but our goal is to promote local talent and encourage film-making in the region. We want to attract larger productions to Cork, like what has been achieved in Dublin and Wicklow. There is no reason we cant do this; we have the talent and the stunning backdrops, both in the city and throughout the county. ORiordan, who comes from Cork city, says her home place has a rich history of successful film and television production, but it needs to be promoted. What we need now is to raise awareness, promote our strengths, work with local and national authorities, and gather enough attention to establish a film officer and the necessary resources to maximise what we already have. ORiordan says the idea for Screen Cork came from a meeting with Benjamin Rupprecht, a Cork-based German film-maker who runs Corks monthly film talk Out Of Frame, and Jamie Hooper, a film-maker and founder of Picture House Cork. We clicked, the three of us, and we were realising that Cork was really on the cusp of something. There is so much talent here, and film-making is trickling in, said ORiordan. We have the very successful The Young Offenders, which has brought so much work to the city, and West Cork Studios is a massive boost for the west of the county, but we need so much more. After talking to many other people in Corks film-making community, we realised how much energy is present now for something like Screen Cork. The film-makers Cian Desmond and Steve Broekhuizen have joined ORiordan, Hooper, and Rupprecht on the board of Screen Cork. ORiordan says that they collectively bring years of industry knowledge to the table. We have all worked in different areas of film for many years. We have enough experience to make something like this work, and we have the energy to do it. We have also spoken with film lecturers, county councils, Screen Ireland, fellow actors, and producers to make sure we are creating something that works for the whole community. This is a massive opportunity for everyone involved, from those who work on set design to local catering companies. Screen Cork also aims to provide training and bursaries for film students. Upskilling and training are vital, so we will work with training bodies, said ORiordan. We aim to introduce a bursary to support students and ensure all voices are heard, which is why we are keen to introduce an Irish language initiative. Cork talent is world-class; we need others to see it. Darragh Mc Donagh A 79-year-old inmate who had been jailed for brutally raping a six-year-old girl died alone in custody after prison authorities failed to notify his family that he had suffered a suspected stroke, an investigation has found. Dan Flynn, a former farm labourer who lived in Tipperary, was sentenced to six years in prison with four years suspended in 2019 after pleading guilty to raping a child when he was 36 years old in 1979. The Court of Appeal subsequently found the sentence to have been unduly lenient, and said it had not come close to reflecting the gravity of the offence, increasing it to five years. The court said the rape had involved a troubling level of brutality and degradation, hearing that Flynn had thrown his victim onto his bed, telling her I have got you now before raping her and spitting in her face. The victim, who is now a married mother, told the court that he had stepped over her as she lay on the ground after the attack, as if I was nothing. Flynn was living in a community hospital for older people before he was jailed at the Midlands Prison in June 2019. He was suffering from Parkinsons disease and had complex medical needs. He was provided with a high-backed orthopaedic chair in his cell, and he received "round the clock" support from healthcare assistants in prison with his personal and hygiene needs as part of an advanced healthcare plan. An investigation into Flynns death by the Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) found that he was reported to be in good form on the morning of October 8th, 2022, as he watched television in his cell. After lunch, he was helped into bed in accordance with his daily routine, and appeared to be fine when he got up again with the assistance of healthcare professionals around 2.15pm. However, he was found slumped over the arm of his chair around an hour later. He was unresponsive, and his face was slumped to one side, a nurse officer told OIP investigators. It was suspected that Flynn had suffered a stroke, and an ambulance was called. He was transferred to Naas General Hospital in the company of two prison escorts around 4pm. Around midnight, Flynn was moved from the emergency department to the intensive care unit (ICU). When a prison officer took over escort duty at 7.15am the next day, they were told by colleagues that they hadnt expected the prisoner to survive the night. At 8.25am, a doctor informed the prison escorts that Flynn had passed away. A prison chaplain who started work at 8am made contact with Flynns family around 8.30am, advising them that he had become ill and had been taken to Naas General Hospital. The chaplain was updated on the situation around 30 minutes later, and had to contact the family again to inform them that Flynn had died, according to the OIP investigation report, which did not identify the deceased by name. The OIP noted that Irish Prison Service (IPS) protocol requires the families of inmates to be contacted in the quickest way possible in the event of grave illness, so they have an opportunity to be with their loved ones. The IPS accepted a recommendation that it should comply with this protocol in future. It also accepted a recommendation regarding the provision of working medical aids and appliances, after the OIP found that an air cushion supplied to Flynn for a bed sore on his buttock had been defective. Around a month later, he was found to have developed a second bed sore on the other buttock, and only then did a nurse observe that the air cushion was not working. The OIP report noted that Flynns family was upset that they had not been informed when he was transferred from the Midlands Prison to Naas General Hospital. It offered its sincere condolences to the family on their loss. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. If DJI is entering the 360-degree action camera market, why shouldn't Insta360 venture into drones? That was my immediate thought when the company announced its first drone, the A1, from a spin-off brand and team called Antigravity. So, what is the A1? Is it an entry-level device? A camera for creators looking to spice up their videos without years of practice? A competitive POV drone? Its a bit of all three, but the Antigravity A1 isnt just a drone. It will eventually launch in a three-part set: the flying unit, OLED Vision goggles and a dedicated Grip motion controller. In its current form, the Antigravity A1 weighs around 249 grams (8.8 ounces), which helps it duck around drone license requirements in most regions. (As its a preproduction model, this could change a little before it hits retail.) Two ultrawide cameras are positioned on the roof and underside of the drone instead of on the front. Its like the Insta360 X5 camera is some sort of cocoon for the Antigravity A1. Image by Mat Smith for Engadget With those two camera units, the A1 can capture video in 8K resolution, stretched across a sphere-like canvas from the drones point of view. With stitching algorithms that the company has continually improved over five generations of 360-degree cameras, this should result in mostly seamless footage where the A1 never interrupts the view. The drone itself wont show up in your video. Its like the companys invisible selfie stick, but, well, up in the sky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The A1 is unlike any other drone Ive played with something I learned when I tested a pre-production unit at a Mercedes-Benz race track in Schlusselfeld, Germany. Naturally, this included high-speed cars, wet conditions and some near-misses. Thanks to working at Engadget, Im a drone dabbler, but Antigravitys A1 is a different experience from the outset. Controlling the A1 involves strapping on companion goggles and steering it from a first-person perspective, controller in hand. However, unlike other FPV drones, you can look (and move) anywhere you want. During roughly 15 minutes of flying time (you can see the highlights here), I found its a surprisingly intuitive experience. With other FPV drones, your view is locked to the direction of the camera. Sure, you can rotate rival drones to see elsewhere, like with DJIs Avata, but its not the same. Because the A1 streams 360-degree video to the goggles, turning your head will never affect the direction its facing. Instead, youll just see whats around the drone as it flies, making it far more intuitive for rookie drone pilots. Better still, you can strafe and move around while looking somewhere else like video game controls for a first-person shooter. This freedom of movement is elevated by the unique A1 controller, which is best described as a blend between a traditional drone controller and a Wiimote. While some of the physical buttons and dials adjust altitude, start/stop video recording and more, steering involves a point-and-click method. When you move your hand out to the right side, a reticle shows up on the goggles display. Pressing the trigger then will cause the A1 to shoot out in that direction, an action that Antigravity calls Freemotion control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As I mentioned, this means I dont have to look where Im going although its better if I do to avoid accidents (or collisions with an expensive Mercedes). If youve been intrigued by FPV drones, this is a simpler experience that feels freer, too. You can look wherever you want, not beholden to where cameras are pointed on other drones. I also think I could get friends and family flying the A1 around with minimal training. Speaking of spectators, Insta360 included a clever touch for them: the goggles have an external screen so that onlookers can see whats happening. There is nothing duller than watching someone else fly a drone without being able to see their POV. Image by Mat Smith for Engadget The A1 is a zippy little drone, presumably thanks to its low weight. But even at this preproduction stage, the resulting video looks better than I thought it would. Plus, it offers substantial versatility if youre looking for action-packed shots. After I tested the A1, Antigravity sent me my video from the drone, so I was about to reframe, crop and reposition the footage. You could even use the same 10 seconds and frame (or crop) to three very different angles. For example, you could extract a tracking shot of the car, a zoomed-in shot of the drone pilot or just the blue skies of Germany all from one clip. Thats the exciting part here. Insta360 built excellent editing tools (mobile and desktop) for its cameras in the past, and it plans to do the same for its first drone. An early version of the software wasnt without its hiccups, but editing was easy enough once I figured out that keyframes would anchor the drone's view. I could then add several keyframes together, tagging objects Id like to keep in frame or track. Editing my footage started to get oddly enjoyable, and I have never enjoyed that task. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another feature the company emphasized is payload detection. While the exact weight limit is still being refined through further testing, Antigravity says the A1 wont be able to fly if the drone detects its carrying something it shouldnt a move to further smooth potential license issues. The company also hinted at future accessories and peripherals to expand the A1 experience something it has successfully done with its action cams and gimbals. Image by Mat Smith for Engadget Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some specs are still a mystery because the drone is a work in progress. To that end, the company is opening up applications for a co-creation project, where participants will get a pre-production Antigravity A1 in exchange for offering feedback. Ideas from these testers will be integrated into the final retail version, and the best ones could win a share of a $20,000 prize pool. Flying the A1 around a racetrack was the most fun I've had with a drone in a long time. But, with goggles and a dedicated controller included, how much will a flight cost? That might decide whether Insta360s Antigravity can carve out a place next to DJIs army of drones. We're getting super close to finding out when the annual Apple iPhone event will take place, giving us a first look at the new iPhone 17 lineup. We should also find out the official date for downloading the latest software update, iOS 26. If you can't wait any longer, you can download and install the newly released public beta 4 (or iOS 26 developer beta 8 for developers). I've been playing around with it for the past couple of weeks, and have found that taking screenshots is way better in the new operating system Google and ChatGPT search options are now in the screenshots editor, for instance. You can see a more complete view of the new features in our preview of the iOS 26 public beta release, which shows off the fresh home and lock screen redesign. Called Liquid Glass, the translucent look will extend across all of Apple's upcoming operating systems. The overhaul is one of several big changes coming to iOS, macOS, iPadOS and the rest of Apple's software suite, all of which were showcased during the company's WWDC keynote on June 9. After overpromising on AI plans last year, Apple kept its iOS roadmap focused more on basic quality of life improvements this year. There are multiple useful additions coming to the Phone and Messages apps on your iPhone, for instance: Apple execs outlined the ability to weed out spam texts or other unknown senders and an option to hold your spot on a phone call when you've been waiting for a representative to pick up. Plus, a treasured feature that we took for granted is coming back (hint: it's in the Photos app). Siri, meanwhile, is in a holding pattern. Apple has previously specified that its smarter voice assistant first promised at WWDC 2024 is delayed until some point "in the coming year," so you shouldn't expect any major changes in the current betas. But there are reports that Apple is aiming to give Siri a bigger brain transplant by basing it on third-party artificial intelligence models like OpenAI's ChatGPT or Anthropic's Claude, which could make 2026 a pivotal year. The company is also reportedly working on a 'stripped-down' AI chatbot to rival ChatGPT. Advertisement Advertisement With each beta, it seems like additional new improvements are popping up, like this new AirPods gesture we're all curious about, and this FaceTime feature that'll freeze your video if it detects nudity. With the release of the iOS 26 developer beta 5, we saw more added features, like a new bouncy animation on the passcode screen and in the Control Center, MacRumors reports. Some or all of those changes will likely soon migrate into the separate public beta (see below). Most newer iPhone models are eligible to download iOS 26 (both the betas and final version). Want to see the full list of new features coming this fall? Read on. What is iOS 26? The current iPhone operating system is iOS 18, and Apple is still actively updating it version 18.6.1 was released to restore Apple Watch blood oxygen monitoring functionality for certain users in the US. More recently, Apple released 18.6.2 to address a vulnerability related to image processing. Apple has officially stopped signing iOS 18.6, MacRumors reports, which means it can no longer be installed on your iPhone due to a "server-side software verification check." That's pretty normal when newer versions are available to download. But don't expect to see iOS 19 soon or ever. Instead, Apple is skipping the numbering ahead to iOS 26 later this year. The company has decided to line up its iOS version numbers with a year-based system, similar to car model years. So while iOS and its sibling operating systems will be released in late 2025, they're all designated "26" to reflect the year ahead. It's official, we're moving to iOS 26. (Apple) What is Liquid Glass design? Let's be honest. Out of everything announced at WWDC this year, the new Liquid Glass design was the star of the show. The iPhone's home and lock screens have looked pretty much the same year after year the last exciting thing (in my opinion) was the option to add your own aesthetic to your home screen by customizing your apps and widgets. So seeing the home and lock screens' new facelift is refreshing. Advertisement Advertisement So what exactly is Liquid Glass? Apple calls it a "new translucent material" since, well, the apps and widgets are clear. However, the screen can still adapt to dark and light modes, depending on surroundings. You'll also notice buttons with a new floating design in several apps, like Phone and Maps. They're designed to be less distracting than the current buttons, but are still easy to see. While the design overhaul has proven to be controversial since its announcement, some including Engadget's own Devindra Hardawar like the new direction, even if it's somewhat reminiscent of Microsoft's translucent Windows Vista Aero designs from nearly twenty years ago. That said, as of the release of the iOS 26 beta 2, Apple has already incorporated some user feedback into the design, dialing back the transparency in at least some places. And while it will continue to evolve, Apple users won't be able to escape it: Liquid Glass was designed to make all of Apple's OSes more cohesive. Here's a look at how the translucent aesthetic will look with the new macOS Tahoe 26 on your desktop. What are the new and notable features of iOS 26? iOS 26 has a laundry list of new features. Among the most worthwhile: Phone app redesign: You'll finally be able to scroll through contacts, recent calls and voicemail messages all on one screen. It also comes with a new feature called Hold Assist that'll notify you when an agent comes to the phone so you can avoid the elevator music and continue on with other tasks. Advertisement Advertisement Live Translation in Phone, FaceTime and Messages: iOS 26 is bringing the ability to have a conversation via phone call or text message with someone who speaks another language. Live Translation will translate your conversation in real time, which results in some stop-and-go interactions in the examples Apple shared during its presentation. Polls in group chats: Tired of sorting through what seems like hundreds of messages in your group chat? You and your friends will soon be able to create polls in group messages for deciding things like which brunch spot you're eating at or whose car you're taking on a road trip. Filtering unknown senders in Messages: If you haven't received spam texts about unpaid tolls or other citations, you're lucky. For those of us who have, those annoying messages will soon be filtered away in a separate folder. Visual Intelligence: Similar to a reverse Google image search, this new feature will allow you to search for anything that's on your iPhone screen. For instance, if you spot a pair of shoes someone is wearing in an Instagram photo, you can screenshot it and use Visual Intelligence to find those shoes (or similar ones) online. Advertisement Advertisement Photos tabs are back: For anyone who's still frustrated with the Photos changes made last year, you'll be happy to know that your tabs are coming back. Library and Collections will have their own separate spaces so you don't have to scroll to infinity to find what you're looking for. FaceTime "Communication Safety" feature: A newer addition to iOS 26 appears to be the FaceTime "Communication Safety" feature that pauses communications if and when nudity is detected. The feature appears to be a child safety feature that uses on-device detection, thus obviating any cloud-based privacy issues. New lock screen options: The iPhone lock screen gets more customizable in iOS 26, with a cooler clock, 3D wallpaper effects, more widgets and better focus mode options. Apple's Hold Assist will be nifty for those pesky services that put you on hold for 10 or more minutes. (Apple) New changes coming to iPadOS 26 Your iPad isn't getting left behind when it comes to big updates. Here's what's coming this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Multitasking and real windowing: When you download the newest update, you'll be able to have multiple apps running on your screen at the same time. Once you open an app, it'll appear on your screen as normal but you'll be able to resize and move it across your screen to make room for other apps. This feature is optional so you can turn it off if you don't like it. Visual update: Along with the other new OSes, iPadOS 26 is coming with the Liquid Glass aesthetic. This new look will appear on the lock and home screens, as well as the drop-down menus. New menu bar: When you swipe down on your screen, the new menu bar will appear with options like File, Edit, Windows and more. There's also a search option if you're looking for something specific. Check out our first impressions of iPadOS 26. What about AirPods? AirPods are also getting updated with iOS 26. Here are some of the more notable functions. Advertisement Advertisement Enhanced audio recording: Apple calls this "studio-quality" audio recording, and with it, you'll notice more clarity while in noisy environments. Camera remote control: Using this, you can take a photo or start and stop video recording with just one press on your AirPods. When taking photos, you'll get a three-second countdown before your iPhone or iPad snaps the picture. Live translation feature: While not officially announced or confirmed, it appears that the long-rumored live translation for AirPods could be coming with iOS 26. The evidence comes from a system asset spotted in the in iOS 26 beta showing a gesture that's triggered by pressing both earbud stems at the same time. The photo also shows words in several different languages. Heart rate monitoring (rumored for now): Bloomberg's Mark Gurman believes Apple will introduce new AirPods Pro earbuds this year, which could have heart rate monitoring. It would work with Apple's Health app and other fitness apps that track heart rates. Which iPhones will be able to upgrade to iOS 26? A few iPhone models that run the current version of iOS iPhone XR, XS and XS Max won't be compatible with the latest upgrade. But any iPhones released in 2019 or later will be eligible for the iOS 26 update. Advertisement Advertisement iPhone SE (second generation or later) iPhone 11 iPhone 11 Pro iPhone 11 Pro Max iPhone 12 iPhone 12 mini iPhone 12 Pro iPhone 12 Pro Max iPhone 13 iPhone 13 mini iPhone 13 Pro iPhone 13 Pro Max iPhone 14 iPhone 14 Plus iPhone 14 Pro iPhone 14 Pro Max iPhone 15 iPhone 15 Plus iPhone 15 Pro iPhone 15 Pro Max iPhone 16 iPhone 16 Plus iPhone 16 Pro iPhone 16 Pro Max iPhone 16e Not listed here are the presumed new iPhone 17 models (or maybe iPhone 26?) that are all but certain to be announced and released in September. How to install iOS 26 beta The iOS 26 public beta is now available to download via the Apple Beta Software Program. If you're not already a member, you'll need to sign up to try out all the latest features. Just visit beta.apple.com and sign up with your phone number or email address. It's free. Once you're in, you can install it by going to Settings > General > Software Update and selecting iOS 26 public beta. A word of caution: Don't sign up with your main iPhone unless you're OK with any risks that occur with using an OS that isn't finalized. When will the final version of iOS 26 be released? iOS 26 will be released to the public this fall. It usually comes in September, within a week of the Apple iPhone event. Last year, it rolled out to iPhone users on September 16 exactly one week after the iPhone 16 lineup was announced. Advertisement Advertisement If you're more interested in the Apple Intelligence features coming, here's everything Apple revealed for iOS, macOS and more during WWDC. Also, check out how iOS 26 screenshots could be an intriguing preview of Apple's delayed Siri rework. Update, August 25: Added a rumor about new AirPods Pro having heart rate monitoring. Update, August 22: Noted that Apple has officially stopped signing iOS 18.6. Update, August 20: Noted that iOS 26 public beta 4 and iOS 18.6.2 are now available to download. Update, August 18: Added details about a potential iOS 18.6 update. Update, August 15: Added to link to what to expect at the Apple iPhone event and details about what's available in the iOS 26 screenshots editor. Advertisement Advertisement Update, August 13: Added new AirPods detail spotted in the iOS 26 beta. Update, August 11: Noted that iOS 26 developer beta has hit beta 6. Update, August 8: Added new features coming with iPadOS 26 and AirPods. Update, August 6: Noted the release of iOS 26 beta 5 and the new bouncy feature on passcode screen and Control Center. Update, August 4: Noted that Apple is reportedly working on a ChatGPT rival. Update, August 1: Added quote from Tim Cook about iOS 26. Update, July 31: Noted that iOS 18.6 is now available. Update, July 24: Noted the iOS 26 public beta is now available. Update, July 3: Noted new FaceTime feature found in the developer beta. Update, June 30: Noted ongoing iOS 18 releases, and reports that Apple is considering additional external LLMs for Siri. Update, June 25: Noted changes added in iOS 26 beta 2. We're still waiting for Apple to make the official announcement for the iPhone event that usually takes place in September. At that event, they'll showcase the new iPhone 17 lineup which will come equipped with the latest iOS 26 features preinstalled, as well as any additional features Apple reveals at the launch event. But since we (presumably) still have to wait a few weeks until the iPhone event, we can only speculate what the new devices will look like. As with most unreleased iPhones, rumors and leaks have trickled in about the hardware side ahead of the official introduction. Here's what we're expecting and what we can reasonably assume we'll get from Apple in September. What are the latest iPhone 17 rumors? Not necessarily a "new" rumor but Bloomberg's Mark Gurman believes there actually will be a new orange color offered for the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, as well as a light blue color for the iPhone 17 Air, he confirmed in his weekly Power On newsletter. Additionally, we have a new case rumor. According to leaker Majin Bu, there will be new Liquid Silicone cases in eight colors, including Deep Orange, Pale Orange, Grass Green, Celadon, Fog Purple, Grey Blue, Dark Blue and Midnight Black. iPhone 17: New Liquid Silicone Cases Colors Full Article:https://t.co/RBnAO3LCAC pic.twitter.com/GuQuvrswg6 Majin Bu (@MajinBuOfficial) August 24, 2025 These rumors haven't been confirmed by Apple and we won't know what the actual iPhone 17 models will look like until the iPhone event next month. How much will the iPhone 17 cost? Apple's announced plan to expand US-based manufacturing partners seems to give it at least some shielding from the steepest Trump administration tariffs that have already triggered price increases on everything from PlayStations to Switch consoles to high-end cameras to Sonos speakers. But given that President Trump's trade policies can change from week to week, and Apple's continuing reliance on Asia-based supply chains, price shocks remain an ongoing possibility. The bigger question is: Will Apple absorb any higher costs, or pass them on to consumers? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If prices do creep up, Apple may choose to pair it with an "upgrade." Consider this recent rumor posted by MacRumors from a leaker known as "Instant Digital," suggesting that the default storage of the iPhone 17 line may start at 256GB, doubling the current 128GB baseline. While that could be accompanied by a price increase of $50, Apple could at least pitch it as a "better value." That said, the company doubled the default RAM of its Mac computers from 8GB to 16GB at no extra cost in 2024 but that was before the current Trump tariff cycle started. When will the iPhone 17 series be announced? Most years, the flagship smartphones are introduced in September. MacRumors highlighted a story originally reported by iphone-ticker.de that the Apple iPhone 17 event could be Tuesday, September 9, according to information gleaned from German mobile phone providers. It's still too early to have the specific dates; some years, Apple only gives a week or two of lead time between sending invites and hosting the event. But years of past precedent show that sometime in September should be when the 17 models make their debut. This family of smartphones may be the last to follow that trend, however. There have been hints that the introduction of the iPhone 18 collection in 2026 will be split into a pro-tier announcement in the fall and a standard model announcement the following spring. What will the new iPhone 17 lineup include? Design leaks suggest that Apple is building an ultra-thin smartphone, likely to be named the iPhone 17 Air to match Apple's ultralight laptop designation. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, often a solid source of advanced intel about Apple, reported in January that the iPhone 17 Air will be equipped with a basic A19 chip and will only have a single camera lens. It may also use Apple's new in-house modem, which was introduced in February on the iPhone 16e. More details about this development may leak ahead of September, but that's what we know for now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An investor note from Apple analyst Jeff Pu indicated that the Air will have a titanium frame. If his reports are accurate, the lightweight smartphone will be the only entry in the iPhone 17 lineup to use that metal; the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are expected to be made of aluminum, which is oddly a lighter material than titanium. Other speculation had suggested that the Air would use a blend of aluminum and titanium, so the exact materials may not be known until the official announcement. Additionally, an August 4 MacRumors report says the internal battery pack of the iPhone Air is just 2.49mm thick half the thickness of the iPhone 17 Pro battery. The leak was posted on the Korean-language Naver blog, where they show the alleged batteries of the iPhone 17 Air and 17 Pro side by side. The same account claimed the 17 Air's battery capacity was a mere 2,800 mAh, MacRumors notes. (That's below the battery capacity of current iPhone 16 models.) On a similar topic, an iPhone 17 Pro production leak appears to have revealed an all-aluminum chassis, according to MacRumors. Originally posted by leaker Majin Bu, the image shows a shell that has a large round hole on the back (where the Apple logo typically is) to allow for MagSafe charging. MacRumors says this could just be a molding but notes that the aluminum frame (versus the current titanium in Pro iPhone models) would yield a significantly lower weight. That same leaker (Majin Bu), whom MacRumors classifies as a "hit-or-miss leaker," suggests the iPhone 17 Pro will have better wireless signal strength thanks to an updated antenna design. The individual posted a render on X that shows a new antenna system that wraps around the iPhone 17 Pro's supposedly wider rear camera bump. Again, this is a render, not a real-world photo. That said, we can't knock the goal of better wireless reception, so we're hoping this one has a degree of truth to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaker Majin Bu also claims "TechWoven" cases could be introduced, per a MacRumors report. The cases match the rumored design on the iPhone 17 models, with the wide camera bump. The leaker noted there are two lanyard holes for "convenient and secure carrying," so it could be worn around your neck. The colors would come in grey/black, blue, green, purple and orange. Each new roster includes a base model, but over the years, Apple has shaken up the variety of phones it offers. Most likely there will be an iPhone 17 and an iPhone 17 Pro. Apple has also committed to the size matters philosophy, and has been building an iPhone Pro Max option with an even bigger screen and better battery life; the 17 roster will almost certainly have one as well. The new Pro iPhones are said to have a full-width "camera island" on the rear, which would mark the first time an Apple model opted for that design. This feature can be seen in the purported iPhone 17 "spotted in the wild." The pics, highlighted on MacRumors, show a black cased iPhone (17 Pro?) with the distinct back panel. Is it the real deal? The dual angles lend a degree of credibility in a social media landscape increasingly polluted with AI-enhanced fakes, but your guess is as good as ours. I just spotted a test development iPhone in the wild pic.twitter.com/iS3PtKWqxJ Fox Pupy (@Skyfops) July 28, 2025 The iPhone 17 Air seems primed to take the place of a potential iPhone 17 Plus. Since the iPhone 16e was only just introduced in February at a surprisingly high price point, it seems unlikely that there will be a new addition to that lower end of the spectrum, the models that were previously called SE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the very least, it sounds like the iPhone 17 Air won't take away the charging port and rely only on wireless connectivity. Bloomberg said that while Apple had investigated making the iPhone 17 Air without a single port, the company (fortunately) changed plans. He also says that the rumored phone will have a 6.6-inch screen and include the Dynamic Island and Camera Control button. Finally, the price is rumored at $900 likely more than the standard iPhone 17 but less than the Pro. We've also gotten what seems to be a reliable look at what the color lineup will be for the new smartphones. Macworld reported that the iPhone 17 will be available in black, white, steel gray, green, purple and light blue. The iPhone 17 Air will reportedly have four color options: black, white, light blue and light gold. While the Air colors will be less saturated, the visuals for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will go bold. The options for the Pro models are expected to be black, white, gray, dark blue and orange. On July 30, Tom's Guide highlighted an X post from Sonny Dickson a longtime and generally reliable leaker of unreleased iPhone information showing "dummy" iPhone 17 models in the new colors that were the source of the aforementioned Macworld story. While these are literally just mock-ups not real, leaked iPhones it's interesting to see how the design and color rumors translate into a real-world look and feel. To add the the rumors, a Weibo leaker known as Digital Chat Station suggests the iPhone 17e will come equipped with a new design that includes the Dynamic Island, MacRumors reports. According to the post, the new phone will have the A19 chip and could have a 6.1-inch OLED display with a front-facing 12-megapixel camera and a rear-facing 48-megapixel camera. However, it's important to note this report refers to the 17e model that would be expected to launch no earlier than February 2026, if it followed the same release pattern as the iPhone 16e. What will iOS 26 be like? Apple upended its numbering conventions with WWDC 2025, and will match the name of each new operating system to the year it's released. So when the next wave of iPhones hits, they'll be running on iOS 26. Advertisement Advertisement On the design side, the smartphone OS introduced during the big developer showcase took a contentious approach dubbed Liquid Glass. Apple has been scaling down the amount of transparency effects in the subsequent beta tests of iOS 26, but it will still have a glass-like visual. The feature list includes big and small updates. On the more impactful side, the Phone and Photos apps have been redesigned. There will be several features leveraging artificial intelligence, such as live translation capabilities coming to Phone, FaceTime and Messages. Apple is also currently testing a sensitive content warning for child accounts that will freeze FaceTime video if nudity is detected by on-device machine learning tools. And the company is also launching Visual Intelligence, which will use AI to search for elements in an image. iOS 26 also has a litany of minor, quality of life improvements. Group texts are getting support for polls. And for the slow risers out there, iOS 26 will finally let you escape the tyranny of the nine minute snooze alarm. The next iOS is now available as a public beta. Here are our initial impressions of the Liquid Glass design and other new features. iOS 26 is compatible with all models back through iPhone 11. What other products are expected to be released alongside the iPhone 17? If Apple follows its usual pattern, the iPhone 17 will be announced alongside new Apple Watch products. That would be the Apple Watch Series 11 (if Apple sticks to the same naming scheme), and maybe an Apple Watch Ultra 3 and/or an updated Apple Watch SE. (They'll all run watchOS 26, of course.) Other possibilities and this is, again, speculation could include refreshed Apple AirPods Pro (which received its last big update in 2022) and maybe new AirTags trackers (first released in 2021). Advertisement Advertisement The Apple rumor mill got a big shot in the arm this week thanks to the reported inclusion of product ID numbers in recent beta software builds. Per MacRumors, it's a laundry list of new hardware, including long-rumored product updates like the Apple TV, HomePod mini, new Apple Studio Display monitor and two fresh iPads. Of course, even if that list is totally accurate, we may not see those products until 2026 if ever. So don't expect all of products to share the stage with the iPhone 17, especially since Apple likes to keep its star performer at the center of attention. That said, keep in mind that Apple has recently been having Mac-centric announcements in late October (as it did last year to debut new M4 Macs), so there's always the chance of another shoe dropping a few weeks down the road. Update, August 25, 2025, 5:15PM ET: Added new reports about the iPhone 17 Pro's orange color as well as new rumored Liquid Silicone cases. Advertisement Advertisement Update, August 22, 2025, 11:52AM ET: Added new details about the colors of the rumored TechWoven case. Update, August 20, 2025, 7:12PM ET: Added new rumor about potential TechWoven case for iPhone 17 series. Update, August 18, 2025, 6:23PM ET: Added new rumor about the iPhone 17e potentially having the Dynamic Island. Update, August 15, 2025, 2:05PM ET: Added new rumor about the all-aluminum chassis on the iPhone 17. Update, August 13, 2025, 10:02PM ET: Added a list of the products that are expected to be released alongside the iPhone 17s. Update, August 11, 2025, 7:27PM ET: Added a render of a rumored new antenna design for the iPhone 17 Pro. Advertisement Advertisement Update, August 8, 2025, 4:43PM ET: Added new speculation and reports about iPhone 17 pricing. Update, August 6, 2025, 4:05PM ET: Added latest details about the potential iPhone 17 event date. Update, August 4, 2025, 5:23PM ET: Added latest battery leaks about the iPhone 17 models. Update, August 1, 2025, 8:15AM ET: Added new photos showing potential iPhone 17 colors. Update, July 30, 2025, 11:08AM ET: Added latest leaks and rumors about the iPhone 17, and updated information on the iOS 26 public beta. Update, July 17, 2025, 4:40PM ET: Added latest information about iOS 26, possible materials for the Air, and the color options for the different models. Advertisement Advertisement Update, March 17, 2025, 2PM ET: Added details about the rumored price and features of the iPhone 17 Air. Update, April 11, 2025, 3:45PM ET: Added details from Front Page Tech's new video that claims to reveal details from a leaked iOS 19 build. The Supreme Court has decided not to weigh in on one of the many state-level age-verification laws currently being reviewed across the country. Today, the top court chose not to intervene on legislation from Mississippi about checking the ages of social media users, denying an application to vacate stay from NetChoice. The Mississippi law requires all users to verify their ages in order to use social media sites. It also places responsibility on the social networks to prevent children from accessing "harmful materials" and it requires parental consent for minors to use any social media. NetChoice represents several tech companies including social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube and it sued to block the law on grounds that it violates the First Amendment. A district court ruled in favor of NetChoice, but the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals lifted its temporary block. Although Justice Brett Kavanaugh denied the application to vacate stay on the appeals court ruling, he also wrote that "NetChoice has, in my view, demonstrated that it is likely to succeed on the meritsnamely, that enforcement of the Mississippi law would likely violate its members' First Amendment rights under this Courts precedents." He denied the application because NetChoice "has not sufficiently demonstrated that the balance of harms and equities favors it at this time." This decision means that, at least for now, Mississippi's law will be allowed to stand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Justice Kavanaughs concurrence makes clear that NetChoice will ultimately succeed in defending the First Amendment," said Paul Taske, co-director of the NetChoice Litigation Center. "This is merely an unfortunate procedural delay." There are several other state laws being assessed at various points in the US legal system. Some are centered on adult content providers such as pornography sites , while others are more broadly targeting social media use. Arkansas and Florida have seen federal judges block their laws, while Texas and Nebraska are working toward adopting their own rules about social media for minors. Yahoo, the parent company of Engadget, is a member of NetChoice. A royal biographer has alleged that the late Queen Elizabeth II was aware of, and actively concealed, questionable financial dealings tied to her son Prince Andrew, casting a fresh shadow over the British monarchy. In his new book The Rise and Fall of the House of York, author Andrew Lownie claims the monarch "colluded" to hide the Duke of York's money troubles and obscure the sources of his wealth. "They knew exactly what was going on," Lownie told RadarOnline.com. "People are not going to like it, but the Queen was colluding in this." The 65-year-old prince, who was stripped of his royal duties in 2022 following a civil lawsuit filed by Jeffrey Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, has faced years of scrutiny over his personal conduct and finances. Lownie contends that the most serious allegations surrounding the duke are not sexual in nature, but financial. According to the book, Andrew's lifestyle from multimillion-pound renovations to his residence at Royal Lodge to alleged payoffs linked to Giuffre's claims was sustained by a complex network of wealthy associates, unexplained loans and taxpayer-funded trips that doubled as opportunities for private business. Lownie points to payments from Turkish businesswoman Nebahat Isbilen, later repaid, and the financial backing of British tycoon David Rowland, who accompanied Andrew on official travel. The biographer says these arrangements were known to palace officials and, crucially, to the Queen herself. "I originally thought she put her head in the sand," Lownie said. "But I increasingly believe she knew and allowed it to happen." The book also revisits Andrew's relationship with Epstein, describing how the disgraced financier was invited to royal residences, and explores the role of Ghislaine Maxwell, who allegedly maintained close personal ties with the prince. Sarah Ferguson, Andrew's former wife, is depicted as a heavy spender, once reportedly spending $33,000 during a single shopping trip. Together, Lownie writes, the couple lived far beyond their official means. Lownie, a monarchist and former Conservative parliamentary candidate, says his intention is not to undermine the institution but to prompt reform. "The monarchy relies on the trust and support of people," he said. "When that trust is broken, people won't stand for it." Buckingham Palace has not commented on the allegations. Actor Daniel Kyri confirmed in an Instagram post that this week marked his final days on the set of the series "Chicago Fire," sharing a heartfelt goodbye to his on-screen alter ego, firefighter Darren Ritter. In the post, the actor revealed he filmed his last scenes as Ritter and reflected on the profound impact the role has had on his life and career. "I filmed my last scenes as [Darren] Ritter [and] I'm still so amazed that my first-ever TV gig a role that was originally meant for just three episodes turned into seven incredible years (Seven?!?!! Whatttt???) and spanned eight seasons of this iconic show!" Kyri wrote. He added, "While I know I may never find another cast and crew as amazing as this one, I intend to carry what I've learned from you to every set in the future." Kyri first appeared as Ritter in the show's sixth season, quickly becoming a fan favorite for his portrayal of a gay Black firefighter whose compassion, humility, and bravery shine through every emergency call. Behind the scenes, the actor has repeatedly noted how much the character meant to him personally. The actor, who joined Firehouse 51 as a limited-arc character, became a series regular in Season 8. His Instagram farewell emphasized both pride and gratitude. "I am so humbled & proud to have portrayed you. I'm thrilled that my inner child would have looked at you each week in awe of everything you represent. You made history. Thank you so much, Darren Ritter. And goodbye," he concluded. Fans and co-stars quickly responded with an outpouring of support. Ryan Guzman, who plays firefighter Brian "Otis" Zvonecek, commented, "Thank you for bringing so much heart to our family." At the same time, Jesse Spencer (Matthew Casey) called Kyri "a true hero on and off camera." Many followers praised Kyri's dedication to authentic representation, noting the importance of seeing a character like Ritter thrive in a high-stakes environment. "Chicago Fire" is set to air its Season 14 premiere in mid-October on NBC. Executive producer Andrea Newman has hinted that Ritter's exit will be woven into the early episodes, offering narrative closure and potentially leaving the door open for future guest appearances. With Kyri's departure after eight seasons, Firehouse 51 bids farewell to one of its most pioneering characters, but, as Kyri's post makes clear, Darren Ritter's legacy will endure both on screen and in the hearts of viewers. First Lady Melania Trump has threatened to sue Hunter Biden for $1 billion, accusing him of spreading "false, defamatory, and inflammatory" claims linking her to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, Melania's attorney, Alejandro Brito, sent the demand to Biden and his lawyer, Abbe Lowell, on August 6. The letter insists Biden retract his statements, issue a public apology, and preserve all records related to the claim. The dispute stems from an interview Biden gave to "Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan," posted to YouTube earlier this month. In the video, Biden claimed, "Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep." He repeated that Epstein was how "the First Lady and the President met." Brito wrote that the statements are "extremely salacious" and have been widely shared online, causing "overwhelming financial and reputational harm" to Melania. He warned that if Biden did not comply by August 7 at 5 pm EST, legal action for damages exceeding $1 billion would follow. The attorney also pointed out that Biden's source appeared to be author Michael Wolff, whose claims were previously challenged by Melania's legal team, AP News said. The Daily Beast, which published Wolff's allegations, retracted the story and issued an apology after receiving a cease-and-desist letter. JUST IN: First Lady Melania Trump demands Hunter Biden retract "false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements" about her, threatening a $1 billion lawsuit unless he removes the content and apologizes. pic.twitter.com/QdUzNErwIR Gunther Eagleman (@GuntherEagleman) August 13, 2025 Melania Trump Secures Multiple Retractions Over Epstein Claims Despite that retraction, Brito said Biden "maliciously elected to republish" the same statements. He accused Biden of using the false claims to draw attention to himself, citing "actual malice" and a history of leveraging famous names for personal gain. The Trumps have consistently said they met in 1998 through Paolo Zampolli, a modeling agent, during New York Fashion Weeknot through Epstein. This is not the first retraction Melania's team has secured in recent months. Political strategist James Carville recently apologized to her after repeating a similar Epstein-related claim during his "Politics War Room" podcast. Carville edited out the remarks and removed a related YouTube video. An aide to the First Lady, Nick Clemens, told Fox News Digital, "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." Biden and Lowell have not publicly responded. A source told Fox News Digital that instead of complying, Biden's team "leaked the letter" to a reporter, showing their concern over his potential legal liability. Four years after the United States withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Talibans return to power, a Bozeman nonprofit is working to keep the plight of Afghan women and girls in the global spotlight. For nearly 30 years, the Central Asia Institute has supported women and girls in remote, mountainous regions of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan. But as the U.S. marks the fourth anniversary of its withdrawal this August, Communications Manager Seelai Karzai said the organization is redoubling efforts to highlight how Taliban rule continues to restrict womens access to education. The Taliban takeover has definitely impacted our work, Karzai said. Their brutal treatment of women has only worsened since the takeover. We still operate in Afghanistan, although weve had to reshape certain programs as the Taliban closes more doors to Afghan women, girls, and children. Since reclaiming power, the Taliban have issued numerous edicts restricting womens and girls access to education, employment, health care and mobility. Last year, the group implemented its vice and virtue laws, including a requirement for women to conceal their faces, bodies and voices outside the home. Four years ago, when the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan, the country took a U-turn on the rights of girls, women, and minorities that had made a consistent and considerable progress for about two decades, said Programs Manager Zia Sanaban, an Afghan refugee who fled in 2021 following the takeover. With humanitarian and development aids shrinking day by day, coupled with forced return of about two million Afghan refugees from the neighboring countries (Pakistan and Iran), I cannot imagine what the situation will look like in a year from now. Since its founding in the mid-1990s, the Central Asia Institute has worked to break down long-standing barriers to education in the region, from poverty and household responsibilities to conservative cultural norms that often push girls out of school. However, that mission has not been without controversy. In 2011, the nonprofits founder, Greg Mortenson, came under fire for fabricating some of the most dramatic and inspiring stories in his bestselling book Three Cups of Tea and for spending more on book promotion than on building schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Karzai said that in the decade since, the organization has overhauled its leadership, strengthened its board, severed operational ties with Mortenson and doubled down on transparency, accountability and its mission to educate women and girls in Central Asia. The need, according to the nonprofit, remains as urgent as ever. In both Afghanistan and Pakistan, roughly 40% of children are not in school, with the majority being girls a problem driven not by a lack of interest, but by a lack of access. For decades, CAI has partnered with organizations such as the Shining Star Educational Organization of Afghanistan and the Welfare Association for the Development of Afghanistan to deliver resources, support teachers and sustain more than 171 community-based schools across Afghanistan. In 2023-24 alone, the nonprofit provided scholarships and access to education to 16,750 students across Central Asia primarily girls including more than 8,000 in Afghanistan and Pakistan and over 20 in Tajikistan, according to its latest impact report. Since the Talibans return to power, roughly two million girls have been banned from secondary and higher education beyond grade six, a prohibition the group initially suggested would be temporary, pending the adoption of an Islamic curriculum. But in the years since, there has been no progress toward reopening schools for older girls, according to the BBC. It is a great travesty in terms of their strategy to continue the illiteracy of the Afghan women and girls, she said. But the most important thing to remember is that although these changes led to some of the drawdowns of our programs, were still there. Were still fighting to protect the right to education for Afghan women and girls. As a result, Karzai said, CAI has had to shift its focus. Much of the organizations work now centers on providing women with the skills and resources to start and run their own businesses, enabling them to earn an income and support their families. Weve opened new windows of hope for girls, boys, women and whole families, and weve done this through our local partners who have created livelihood and economic empowerment programs for Afghan women so they can earn their own income and contribute to the maintenance of their family, she said. Those programs, Karzai said, focus on giving women tangible skills, from growing and selling produce to making and marketing textiles. At the same time, CAI continues to look for new ways to safeguard girls access to education in the region. That includes continuing to support partner organizations that train Afghan women to become teachers. Theyre educating these next generations of Afghans, she said. We know that we cant meet the demand for education, including for young girls in the regions where were working. However, teachers and the local partners know and Afghan families know that their childrens education is their best hope for a better future and for ending the cycle of poverty that theyre finding themselves in day after day. Even under restrictive Taliban rule, Karzai said there have been glimmers of hope, with rifts emerging within the group over womens and girls access to education, including one senior official reportedly leaving the country after speaking out against the ban, according to NBC. Still, while the day-to-day situation in Afghanistan has largely faded from American headlines, the need to educate Afghan girls and women, and to equip them with the tools to support themselves and their families, remains urgent. Even if one young Afghan girl is educated, that is a success, she said. Educating an Afghan girl, even just one, youre lifting her up and youre letting her know that shes not been forgotten, and youre handing her the key to a better future. Editors note: An earlier version of this story misspelled Zia Sanabans last name. It has been corrected. UPDATE: August 14, 2025 10:40 a.m. The City-County of Butte-Silver Bow released a statement, restating the Department of Environmental Qualitys warning against drinking tap water. They also re-shared that affected residents would be offered free bottled water at the Butte Civic Center Annex. In a Facebook post about water distribution, Butte-Silver Bow said that water distribution would start at 10:30 a.m. The public can access the Butte Civic Center from the west side at Harrison Avenue. People should stay inside their cars and the staff will bring water to the car. Each car will receive one case. The City-County also offered a timeline leading up to the water-warning. On August 13 around 4 p.m., Montana Resource management alerted the City-County about a possible contamination in the municipal water supply at the south of Front Street. The City-County contacted the Department of Environmental Quality about the situation, which advised them to issue a do not consume order for the affected area. The Public Works Director, Neary and the Butte-Silver Bow department worked to flush the lines immediately, wrote the City-County. At the same time, a public announcement was made through social media and all media channels within 15 minutes of their conversion with the Department of Environmental Quality. The Everbridge notification system was used on August 13 to keep people informed. The City-County said that further information could be found at the Everbridge notification page HERE or by calling (406) 497-6440. They said to call this number instead of 911 for questions related to the water quality incident so that 911 could be reserved for emergencies. UPDATE: August 13 at 7:30 p.m. A boil water advisory was issued out of an abundance of caution following a recent contamination report, according to Butte-Silver Bow Emergency Management. Authorities are currently flushing the system and conducting tests to ensure safety. Residents are advised to boil their water until further notice. If the issue persists tomorrow, free water bottles will be available for affected families at the Montana Resources office. BUTTE, Mont. Residents south of Front Street using the Butte-Silver Bow potable water system are being instructed not to consume tap water due to contamination. An over pressurization event at Montana Resources led to contaminants entering the system. Public Works Director Mark Neary stated that the Water Division is working diligently to resolve the issue. "We will update the community as soon as possible," Neary said. ORIGINAL: August 13 at 4:59 p.m. CHESWICK, Pa. Medicaid is more than just healthcare coverage; it keeps fragile rural health systems afloat, according to Lisa Davis, director of the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health. But now, thousands of people across Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia could lose coverage after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, H.R. 1, was signed into law by President Donald Trump on July 4. The bill cuts federal spending on a number of things, including Medicaid, which covers over a quarter of rural residents in the United States. But even those who arent covered by Medicaid will see changes, says Davis, who is also an associate professor at Penn State Universitys College of Health and Human Development. The largest impact from Medicaid cuts will be on rural hospitals, she says, as they rely heavily on Medicaid funding to keep operations afloat. Without this funding, these hospitals and rural health clinics could cut critical services like maternity wards and in-home care or, worse, close altogether, leaving residents to travel farther distances for life-saving care. Medicaid cuts will impact essentially everybody in one way or another, either directly or indirectly, Davis said. Changes to Medicaid Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program in the United States that provides medical and health-related services to low-income people. It was created by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1965, and qualifying people included adults with disabilities, low-income parents with dependent children and pregnant women. The program was expanded in 2014 to include adults with a household income of 138% below the federal poverty level. For a household of one, this would be an annual income of $21,597. According to Davis, changes to Medicaid through the Big Beautiful Bill will mostly target the population that received Medicaid through this expansion due to a loss of federal funding and new work requirements. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act will gradually cut federal funding for Medicaid by $1 trillion over the next 10 years. Pennsylvania will lose more than $39 billion in Medicaid funding, something that Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro says the state can not backfill. Starting in January 2027, the bill also sets work requirements for able-bodied Medicaid recipients between the ages of 19 and 64. This includes completing 80 hours of work or community engagement per month or 20 hours of work or community engagement per week to remain eligible. Many Republicans say the bills intent, including the work requirements, is to go after waste, fraud and abuse in the program. That message was echoed earlier this month when Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost filed indictments against nine Medicaid providers for stealing a combined $1.2 million from the program. Medicaid fraud is both a crime and a moral offense. It steals from the vulnerable and undermines our values as a society, Yost said in a statement on July 10. Who will be impacted? Because of these changes, 310,000 people in Pennsylvania could lose their Medicaid coverage, which covers one in four people in the state, according to Shapiro. In Ohio, 253,111 people could lose Medicaid coverage, and in West Virginia, 51,786 stand to lose insurance, reports the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee. Rural populations, in particular, stand to be significantly impacted as one in four adults in rural areas rely on Medicaid for health coverage, reports KFF, a non-profit organization focusing on health policy and research. Rural residents who arent covered by Medicaid will also be impacted, says Davis, whose job at the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health focuses on increasing rural residents access to healthcare and working closely with the states smallest rural hospitals. Rural hospitals With limited funding, rural hospitals hospitals not located within a metropolitan area will have few options, many of which have traditionally been on the edge financially, Davis said. Rural hospitals rely heavily on Medicaid and Medicare reimbursements while struggling to make ends meet. Roughly 25 rural hospitals in Pennsylvania are operating at a deficit where more than 50% of their revenue each year is coming from Medicaid, said Shapiro at a July press conference. In Ohio, hospitals are also struggling to break even, according to a letter the Ohio Hospital Association sent to the Ohio Senate Medicaid Committee in May. More than 50% of Ohio hospitals (and 72% of rural hospitals) report(ed) negative operating margins over the past few years. The median hospital operating margin was 0.0% in 2024, -0.7% in 2023 and -2.8% in 2022, the letter stated. Many of these hospitals also have to provide healthcare to uninsured patients, which is costly, especially for rural hospitals that are already struggling, Davis said. The way that this affects rural communities, overall, is that if small rural hospitals begin to see higher numbers of individuals who are uninsured and they need to provide uncompensated care, were looking at the potential of hospital closures, she said. Already, nine rural hospitals, most of which are in western Pennsylvania, are at risk of immediately closing as a result of Medicaid cuts, including four University of Pittsburgh Medical Center hospitals UPMC Jameson, UMPC Northwest, UMPC Kane and UMPC Horizon and Penn Highlands Connellsville. In total, 17 Pennsylvania hospitals could close due to Medicaid cuts, according to the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform. In Ohio, five hospitals are at risk of closing, and three hospitals are at immediate risk of closing. Already, Pennsylvania has seen two hospitals close this year. Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Delaware County closed its doors in April, and on June 30, Heritage Valley Health Systems Kennedy Hospital in Allegheny County closed, citing financial problems. Labor units could close The loss of Medicaid funding could also result in hospitals closing certain departments. Labor and delivery units, in particular, could close if Medicaid recipients become uninsured. Thats because 34% of births in Pennsylvania were covered by Medicaid in 2023, according to state numbers from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Labor and delivery is the most expensive service that a hospital provides, Davis said. Rural hospitals need 200 births per year to keep these units financially viable, according to a 2022 survey conducted by the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center that polled 300 rural hospitals. At the time, over 40% of hospitals said they had fewer births than what was needed to sustain operations. Some rural hospitals in Pennsylvania have already had to close. In April, UMPC Cole in Potter County, Pennsylvania, closed its maternity ward. Now, the closest maternity ward is UMPC Wellsboro, which is 50 minutes away from Potter County and serves seven other counties. We now have a seven-county-wide maternity care desert thats roughly the size of Connecticut, said Erin Gabriel, government affairs representative for the Pennsylvania Health Access Network. For women in labor who live in one of these seven counties, it could take hours of travel to get to a maternity ward, she said. Homecare services at risk Alongside hospitals, home care patients like elderly and disabled individuals could also lose their services due to a lack of funding. Gabriel is familiar with the benefits of in-home care; she has three children with disabilities and a mother with Alzheimers, all of whom rely on Medicaid and two that use it for home care services. Gabriel said the first health care services to be cut when finances are tight are often home care services. She is particularly concerned about her daughter Abby, who is autistic, deaf, blind and non-speaking, and uses a wheelchair. Doctors initially didnt believe she would outlive her parents. Abby is, in many ways, a story of everything that can go right with our healthcare system, Gabriel said. She explained that because of Pennsylvanias required newborn screening tests, Abbys hearing loss was found at birth, and she was able to qualify for the home and community-based Medicaid waiver. Without Medicaid, the support Abby received wouldnt have been possible, which includes physical, occupational, speech, feeding, vision and hearing therapies. If Abbys home care services are cut, she would have to be institutionalized, separated from her parents, siblings and friends, Gabriel said. Gabriels elderly mother could also be sent to a nursing home. Behind these numbers (of people insured by Medicaid) are real people, Gabriel said, at a press conference hosted by Pennsylvania Congressman Chris Deluzio, a Democrat representing Pennsylvanias 17th congressional district, on July 10 in front of Hamar Village Care Center in Chewsick, Pennsylvania. With Medicaid, Seniors like my parents can age in place with the people they love, and people with disabilities can participate in their communities and live their lives just like every other American, she said. Ultimately, Medicaid means that families like mine can stay together. At the conference, which brought together government leaders, healthcare workers and mothers of Medicaid beneficiaries, Deluzio echoed these concerns, stating the Big Beautiful Bill will make things worse for families all over western Pennsylvania and all over this country. Is it enough? Rural communities could get some funding from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which created the Rural Health Transformation Plan. Through the program, Congress has allocated $50 billion to improve healthcare in rural areas from fiscal years 2026 through 2030. That is $10 billion per fiscal year, with $5 billion divided equally among eligible states and the other $5 billion distributed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to states based on certain criteria. In order for states to be eligible for the program, they must submit a detailed rural health transformation plan that consists of: improving access to hospitals or other health care providers and services for rural residents of the state, improving health care outcomes of rural residents, prioritizing the use of emerging technologies that assist with prevention and chronic disease management, strengthening and initiating partnerships between rural hospitals and health care provides and more. Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, recently announced that applications for the program will be sent out to states in early September. Some praised the funding, including the CEOs of several rural Ohio health systems in a letter to Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) and Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), which thanked them for their effort in securing roughly $1.3 billion in funding for Ohios rural hospitals over the next five years. Others say this funding may not be enough. Over half of the Medicaid funding cuts in rural areas are among 12 states, including Pennsylvania and Ohio, which will see a decline in funding of $5 billion or more over the next 10 years, reports KFF. Davis says that this funding wont necessarily go to rural hospitals or help uninsured individuals, as the state dictates where this money goes. But it will reimagine rural healthcare, she adds, and just how is still unclear. (Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com or 330-337-3419.) SCIO, Ohio Dan Keenan stood before a group of firefighters and farmers in an engine bay at the Perry Township Volunteer Fire Department, explaining the stakes of the rescue exercise they were about to simulate: a farmer and his young son, both unresponsive, were trapped in a confined space with gas levels rising. As first responders secured their harnesses, Keenan, the director of the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, reminded the group of the life-or-death realities behind the drill. We go by the adage of risk a lot to save a lot, risk little to save little, he said. While the rescuers listened for his instructions, a shrill alarm suddenly pierced the air. A firefighters personal alert safety system (PASS) device had gone off due to lack of movement. Its designed to signal when a firefighter may be incapacitated. The firefighter wiggled to reset his and stop the alarm. Before continuing, Keenan took a moment to lighten the mood. By the way, did you know if you look in Websters unabridged dictionary (online), the word twerking? It shows a video of a firefighter doing this, he said, gesturing toward the shimmying firefighter, to get the PASS device off. The group laughed but quickly returned to focus. Keenan began dividing them into rescue teams. Then he set the scene. Were responding out to the Huey Fudpucker farm, he announced. We got 35-year-old Huey Fudpucker Junior unresponsive, and his 3-year-old son, Huey Pucker the Third, is down there as well. Suited up and wearing self-contained breathing apparatuses, the first two rescuers descended into the simulated confined space. To the uninitiated, it looks like a hollow trailer with windows for outside observers to watch the steps undertaken by first responders inside. Their objective was to assess and retrieve the victims, represented by mannequins. One rescuer was tasked with handling the child and called out gas readings. The other secured the adult with a half-body harness for extraction. Up above, another firefighter cranked a wench to pull the first victim out. Keenan narrated the process in real time, emphasizing proper equipment use, communication and coordination. Once the mannequins were safely out, he challenged the group to reflect. How long did it take us to get dressed and get ready? Long time. How long did it take to do the rescue? Three minutes, maybe? Dangerous jobs The training underscored the unique hazards of confined space rescues in rural communities, especially on farms. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, farm work remains one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Since 2012, more than 1,500 agricultural workers have lost their lives on the job. Hidden dangers lurk around the corner for both farmers and the first responders tasked with saving them from harm. In confined spaces, Keenan said, its easy to run out of air: methane and hydrogen sulfide are among the biggest concerns, but other gases can also displace breathable oxygen without any visible warning. The air youre breathing right now is 21.5% oxygen, he told the class. The minimum amount of oxygen to sustain life is 19.5%. You get down below that, you get down to 18%, you start having hand-eye coordination problems. You get down to 17%, thats where we get Green Bay Packer fans from every day. Lack of oxygen to the brain. Jokes aside, Keenan reminded the group why the training mattered, recounting a tragic incident in St. Henry, Ohio in 2021 where three family members died in succession after entering a manure pit, each one trying to save the last. Neenan said that recent data points to a disturbing trend in such episodes. Sixty percent of the people who die in a confined space were would-be rescuers. Think about that. Sixty percent of the people who died were would-be rescuers, which means they got the person who was trapped out, but then they didnt make it out. Hydrogen sulfide, which is found in areas such as manure pits, is particularly insidious, first dulling the sense of smell before lulling a person into a false sense of safety when they can no longer detect it. Even advanced medical teams have few tools to treat its effects. What do we have on the ambulance that can work to reverse the symptoms of hydrogen sulfide poisoning? he asked. Oxygen. Thats it. Keenan pointed out that rural hospitals often dont have the resources for specialized care, meaning time is critical. Farmers dont wake up in the morning and say, Today would be a good day to get killed in a farming incident, he said. They wake up and think, I got 100 things to do today. If I have a good day, I might get four of those done. Be cautious. Perry Township Fire Chief Eric Horn said the training brought home just how chaotic real scenes can get, especially when many people are involved. That can make it difficult to keep tabs on everyone, leading to rescuers potentially becoming victims themselves. Well, the more people you have, the harder it is, Horn said, adding that maintaining scene awareness isnt just a chiefs responsibility. Getting the training trailer to Ohio was a yearlong effort. It comes out of Iowa and finally, he was in Ohio, so we got him to this area today, Horn said. Fire departments from at least four counties Tuscarawas, Carroll, Harrison and surrounding areas took part. And while the trailer is labeled for manure pit rescue, Horn said the lessons apply to far more. You know, it says confined space for the manure pit simulator, but you know, it could be a confined space for anything, he said. Its all basically the same principles. Kevin Arbaugh, a firefighter in attendance, said much of the information in the training hit close to home. Well, Ive been around the farm my whole life, Arbaugh said. So I knew a lot of stuff already. And then (Ive) also been a firefighter for thirty-some years. One thing that stood out to him was the discussion about foam buildup and gas pockets in manure pits, something he said hes seen firsthand. Arbaugh said one of the biggest dangers around manure pits is simply falling in, especially when theyre not properly marked or secured. Some farms, the manure pits arent even fenced off, he said. Especially your lagoon type. His advice to the public: Be cautious. Be aware of your surroundings. And to farmers? Try to put fences around your area, keep them clean and safe, he said. It costs a lot to put a fence around some of these bigger lagoons. But its worth it. For Arbaugh, realistic simulations like this one are more than valuable theyre essential. Especially some of these people who arent aware of these types of situations, he said. British red meat is ready to prove it can be both sustainable and productive and it has the data to back it up, according to a new 1.5m farmer-led initiative. Red meat processing giant ABP has launched PRISM 2030, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of beef and lamb while providing robust data to inform policy and procurement decisions. For most shoppers, choosing beef or lamb is a quick decision, said Phil Hambling, ABPs director of agriculture and sustainable sourcing. "Busy consumers want confidence that the job is being done right, that their meat has been produced to high standards of welfare and sustainability and then they want to enjoy their meal. PRISM 2030 involves more than 300 farmers across the UK, from Orkney to the Isle of Wight. Each has undergone detailed carbon footprint assessments using the Agrecalc tool, followed by tailored guidance from the Andersons Centre and Professor Jude Capper of Harper Adams University. Theres been a lot of attention on livestock emissions, but it often overlooks the nuance of British systems, Mr Hambling added. Unlike many other sectors, agriculture doesnt operate in a neat production line; its part of a complex natural cycle. "British farms manage carbon, nutrients, biodiversity and animal welfare in an integrated way and have an incredibly strong sustainability story to tell, but that story has been undersold. "With accurate data and academic insight, we can back up the continuous improvements being made and give consumers the confidence they need. Professor Capper stressed the importance of tailored, practical improvements. Theres no silver bullet. Every farm is different, so its about finding the small, practical improvements that make sense for your system whether thats improving grazing, refining breeding or reducing waste. "These changes might seem minor on their own, but when hundreds of farmers are making them, the cumulative impact is substantial. Farmers involved in the programme have already seen tangible benefits. Billy Cuthbertson, who runs a 400-acre livestock unit in North-East Fife, said its not about chasing a perfect carbon score. "Its about finding the improvements that suit your farm, make sense for your individual system, and help the business move forward in a positive manner," he explained. Similarly, Perthshire farmer Adrian Ivory highlighted the commercial benefits: PRISM gave us a way to test and track our assumptions. Weve brought down age at slaughter, increased our in-calf rate and introduced rotational grazing. "All of that improves performance, which reduces emissions. And when youre running a commercial farm, you realise that reducing your carbon footprint can often lead to improvements in the bottom line. Mr Hambling sees PRISM 2030 as a catalyst for broader change in the industry: Around 90% of red meats carbon footprint sits on farm. Thats where the biggest opportunities lie, and its our responsibility to support farmers in making practical, informed improvements, he said. British red meat has a strong story to tell when it comes to carbon emissions and productivity. Were improving all the time, and weve got the data to prove it. Nows the time to share that with pride." The UK governments reported plan to introduce a lifetime cap on tax-free gifts has been branded heartless and a direct threat to the future of family farming. Harriet Cross, MP for Gordon and Buchan, has condemned Chancellor Rachel Reeves over proposals that would limit how much parents can pass on to their children before death without incurring inheritance tax. At present, families can gift unlimited sums or assets tax-free provided the donor survives for at least seven years. But a lifetime cap would enable the Treasury to levy tax on transfers made many years earlier a move Ms Cross says would devastate farming families already facing Labours planned family farm tax. The Conservative MP said: "Rachel Reeves is coming back for more, but now its not just farmers who are at risk from these damaging tax raids on families. Nothing is safe from this chancellor Rachel Reeves is taxing and axing the future of families to fund her failures. The warning follows Ms Reeves refusal to back down over the controversial inheritance tax proposals during her first visit to Northern Ireland, where she defended it as a right and fair decision designed to protect the incomes of ordinary people. Ms Cross, a vocal critic of the policy, argues the combination of a lifetime gift cap and a farm inheritance levy would make passing holdings between generations virtually impossible. Labours family farm tax means farmers will now have to pass farms on early, but a lifetime cap will likely make passing on a farm at any time impossible, she said. An inheritance tax transfer cap, plus the family farm tax, will be the end of family farming. She added that Ms Reeves comments reveal a worrying disconnect from rural Britain: Its appalling that the Chancellor does not class farmers as normal working people and is using the industry as a guinea pig for her failures. "She is completely out of touch with rural life and the damage she is causing to our nations food security. The lack of empathy she continues to show towards the plight of our farmers who are the engine of our economy is despicable. "We will not give up the fight. I, along with the wider agricultural industry, will continue to fight against the family farm tax to the very end. Britains 5G rollout is facing a major setback as more than one in three mast hosts threaten to pull the plug on their agreements over rent-slashing reforms. More than a third of landowners hosting mobile phone masts are considering terminating their agreements, according to a new survey that casts doubt on government plans to extend rent-cutting rules to thousands more sites. The national poll of over 500 site providers found that 35% are actively thinking about withdrawing from hosting mobile infrastructure, citing dramatic rent reductions, legal pressure from operators and a collapse in trust. The current arrangements stem from 2017 changes to the Electronic Communications Code, which replaced market-based rents with a quasi-compulsory purchase model. Landlords say they have faced rent cuts of up to 90% and a surge in disputes, with more than 1,000 legal cases brought to date. Despite these issues, ministers are proposing to extend the regime to 15,000 additional sites across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with a final decision expected later this year. Unlike earlier generations of mobile technology, 5G depends on a dense network of masts, many on private land. Without farmers and landowners willing to host them, rollout targets could be missed. Independent analysis by Ookla currently ranks the UK 24th out of 32 European countries for 5G availability. The latest NFU 2024 Digital Access Survey adds to the alarm, showing that only 22% of NFU members have reliable mobile coverage across their entire farm. Industry leaders warn that the governments proposals are already undermining connectivity. The survey results follow a joint letter to the Treasury from a coalition of property and landowner groups including the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), NFU, British Property Federation (BPF) and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers urging ministers to halt the reforms and review the current regime. CLA President Victoria Vyvyan said that many landowners hosting mobile phone masts and supporting crucial infrastructure dont want to pull out of their agreements, but feel like they have little choice. She highlighted that some landowners have faced rent reductions of up to 90% and difficult relationships with operators, making it unsurprising that so few are willing to continue hosting masts. As this survey shows, the behaviour of the mast operators has put the UKs 5G rollout under threat and jeopardised the Treasurys wider ambitions for economic growth and connectivity. Ms Vyvyan added that bridging the rural-urban digital divide will require the government to speed up rollout while ensuring that landowners are treated fairly. To close the unacceptable rural-urban digital divide the government must work to accelerate rollout, and to do that they must make sure landowners are treated fairly. NFU Vice-President Rachel Hallos said it is worrying that many site providers are thinking of withdrawing from hosting telecommunications infrastructure, warning that this will undoubtedly damage connectivity at a time when it is most needed for growing farming businesses and the economy. She noted that the frustrations are understandable, given reports from members about rent reductions, difficult behaviour from operators, and the disruption caused by hosting a mast site. Our members do not feel listened to by operators or government when it comes to having a say over what is happening on their land. In a move expected to bring significant relief to Bangladeshs export-reliant garment industry, US President Donald Trump has announced a substantial reduction in tariffs on Bangladeshi goods. The new tariff rate has been lowered to 20 per cent, down from the earlier 35 per cent, following a final round of intense negotiations held in Washington. The US has reduced tariff on Bangladeshi goods from 35 per cent to 20 per cent, following final negotiations in Washington. The US is Bangladesh's largest export market, accounting for $9 billion annually, including $7 billion in garments, as per some estimates. Move offers major relief to those RMG suppliers, heavily dependent on the US market. This reduction is being celebrated as a critical diplomatic success for Bangladesh. Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus publicly congratulated the countrys negotiators, calling the trade agreement a landmark deal and a decisive diplomatic victory. As per reports, Yunus remarked, By reducing the tariff to 20 per cent, 17 points lower than anticipated, our negotiators have demonstrated remarkable strategic skill and unwavering commitment to safeguarding and advancing Bangladeshs economic interests. The revised tariff rate comes as a welcome development for Bangladeshs apparel exporters, especially the ones heavily dependent on the US market for their survival and business growth. According to media reports, more than 250 Bangladeshi garment factories had been under intense strain due to fears of a potentially crippling 35 per cent tariff hike. Such a scenario could have severely disrupted operations, leading to potential factory closures and job losses. These factories were particularly at risk because a large portion of their exports are directed to the US, according to media reports which cited data from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). In addition to these 250 factories, another 1,000 were also anticipated to face substantial pressure, although their dependency on the US market reportedly varied between 1 per cent and 60 per cent. According to reports which cited the data of the garment makers body, 1,322 BGMEA-member factories export to the US. Among these, 822 factories export up to 20 per cent of their total production to the US. Meanwhile, 176 factories export between 21 per cent and 40 per cent of their output, 87 factories export between 41 per cent and 60 per cent, and 91 factories send between 61 per cent and 80 per cent of their products to the US. Additionally, 46 factories reportedly rely on the US market for between 81 per cent and 90 per cent of their exports, while 100 factories ship 91 per cent to 100 per cent of their total output to the American market. The US is Bangladeshs single largest export destination, reportedly accounting for nearly $9 billion in exports annually; of this, over $7 billion reportedly comprises readymade garmentsa critical segment of Bangladeshs economy. Factories under the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), another trade body in the countrys garment sector, also maintain robust trade relationships with US buyers. Industry experts had previously warned of the consequences if the tariff rate remained high. In an earlier interview with Fibre2Fashion, Fazlul Hoque, Managing Director of Plummy Fashions Ltd and former president of BKMEA, expressed concerns that high tariff could prompt Bangladeshi exporters to move away from the US market. This shift, he said, would increase competition in other global markets and could even result in permanent factory closures. The high tariff could force many Bangladeshi suppliers to shift their focus away from the US, intensifying competition in other markets even as some manufacturers may have to shut shop for the good, thereby harming the industry further in the long run, Hoque had stated. Given this context, the revised tariff structure has come as a much-needed breather for Bangladeshi manufacturers, especially those dependent significantly on the US market, who now have something to cheer about. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DR) Brazil has requested the World Trade Organization (WTO) for dispute consultations with the United States concerning US tariff measures, which it says, impose a 10-per cent duty on all Brazilian products and an additional 40-per cent duty on certain products of Brazilian origin. The request was circulated to WTO members recently. Brazil has requested the WTO for dispute consultations with the US concerning US tariff measures, which it says, impose a 10-per cent duty on all Brazilian products and an additional 40-per cent duty on certain products of Brazilian origin. Brazil claims the measures are inconsistent with the US obligations under various provisions of the GATT 1994 and the Dispute Settlement Understanding. Brazil claims the measures are inconsistent with the US obligations under various provisions of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994 and the Dispute Settlement Understanding (DSU) by seeking redress through tariff measures, rather than with recourse to the rules and procedures of the DSU, the WTO communication note said. The request for consultations formally initiates a dispute in the WTO. Consultations give the parties an opportunity to discuss the matter and to find a satisfactory solution without proceeding further with litigation. After 60 days, if consultations have failed to resolve the dispute, the complainant may request adjudication by a panel. Brazil looks forward to receiving a reply from the United States to this request and to fixing a mutually convenient date for the holding of consultations, the note added. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) The Filmfare Awards 2025 are just around the corner. Since its debut in 1954, Filmfare Awards has celebrated and honoured the finest talent in Indian cinema. For decades, the coveted Black Lady has stood as a mark of excellence for the best in the industry. As we count down to this year's ceremony, we are looking back at the winners of the Filmfare Best Actor (Critics') Award from the past 20 years. These performances redefined acting and raised the bar. Each winner was chosen through a rigorous and discerning process, guided by some of the most respected voices in film criticism. 2005 In 2005, Pankaj Kapur won the Best Actor (Critics') Award for Vishal Bharadwaj's Maqbool, an adaptation of William Shakespeare's Macbeth. Kapur played the role of Jahangir Khan (Abbaji), whose character mirrons Duncan I of Scotland in the original play. Amitabh Bachchan won the Award in 2006 for his film Black. It was inspired by the life of Helen Keller. Bachchan played Debraj, an ageing teacher who helps a deaf and blind woman. He later develops Alzheimer's disease. Aamir Khan took home the Best Actor (Critics') Award for Rang De Basanti. He played a carefree and aimless youth who transforms into a committed revolutionary after his flight lieutenant friend is killed in a jet malfunction accident. 2008 Darsheel Safary won the award in 2008 for Taare Zameen Par, which was also his debut film. He played the lead role of a dyslexic young boy. 2009 Manjot Singh was the next in line to win this award for Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! He played the younger version of Abhay Deol's character, Lovinder 'Lucky' Singh. Best Actor (Critics') Award was won by Ranbir Kapoor in 2010 for his films Wake Up Sid, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani and Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year. 2011 The Best Actor (Critics') Award went to late actor Rishi Kapoor for Do Dooni Char. 2012 Ranbir Kapoor once again won the Best Actor (Critics') Award in 2012 for Imtiaz Ali's Rockstar. 2013 Irrfan Khan won the Best Actor (Critics') Award at the Filmfare Awards 2013 for Paan Singh Tomar. 2014 Rajkummar Rao won for Shahid, a film based on the life of late lawyer and human rights activist Shahid Azmi, who was assassinated in 2010. Sanjay Mishra won for the film Ankhon Dekhi. His character in the film refuses to believe anything he is told unless he has seen it with his own eyes. Amitabh Bachchan won for Piku. He played an eccentric father in the film. It also starred Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan. The Best Actor (Critics') Award was jointly won by Manoj Bajpayee (for Aligarh) and Shahid Kapoor (for Udta Punjab) in 2017. Rajkummar Rao took home the Black Lady for Trapped, a survival drama that follows a call centre employee who gets trapped in his apartment. The year 2019 saw two winners for the Best Actor (Critics') Award - Ayushmann Khurrana for Andhadhun and Ranveer Singh for Padmavat. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Filmfare (@filmfare) Ayushmann Khurrana once again won the Best Actor (Critics') Award for Article 15. He essayed the role of a policeman who investigates the disappearance of three young girls from a village where he is posted. In his journey to unravel the truth, he also witnesses the caste-based discrimination and violence that has been normalised. 2021 Amitabh Bachchan won it for Gulabo Sitabo. In the comedy-drama, he played a stingy old landlord. 2022 Vicky Kaushal took home the trophy for Sardar Udham, a biographical historical drama, based on the life of Udham Singh. The Black Lady went to Sanjay Mishra for Vadh. The film followed an elderly couple Shambhunath (Mishra) and Manju (Neena Gupta), who are constantly harassed by their loan shark neighbour. However, one day, Sambhu ends up killing him. 2024 Vikrant Massey won the award last year for 12th Fail. The film is based on a book by Anurag Pathak, where he chronicles the journey of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Singh, who overcame extreme poverty to become an Indian Police Service officer. Vikrant played the lead role. Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR and Kiara Advani's War 2 has released in the theatres today. It was received well by fans of the actors. The post-credit scene of the film is also creating waves online. Although NTR and Hrithik asked fans not to share spoilers, the end scene has been leaked on social media, and a lot of fans have shared it as the scene contains an important development in the Yash Raj Films Spy-Universe. The post-credit scene teased Bobby Deol's first look from YRF's next spy film Alpha, which stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari in key roles. His character is seen stamping the logo of an agency on the hand of a young girl. When the girl asks, "What's this?" Deol answers, "Alpha." The young girl further enquires about it, to which he explains that Alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and their program's motto - The first, the fastest and the strongest." Many have speculated that this young girl could be young Alia's character. Bobby will reportedly play the antagonist in Alpha. Take a look at the clip: Filmfare's Review of War 2 Filmfare rated the film 3 out of 5 and said in its review: "YRF have raised the bar when it comes to action in their spy universe films. Whether its Pathaan, Tiger or the original War, the action was key to enjoying the film. While good, the action here just about levels up and hasnt gone beyond its predecessors. The same can be said of VFX. A much better job was expected, as wed seen YRF going all out in their earlier outings. Summing up, see the film for the confrontation scenes between Hrithik Roshan and NTR. Fans of both the stars wont get disappointed. Both the stars have extended themselves for the film and lets hope their efforts bear fruit." Also Read: Hrithik Roshan And Jr NTR To Release A Glimpse Of War 2 On The Latters Birthday There is a new K-drama around the corner! Im Yoon-ah and Lee Chae-min have come together for the fantasy romantic series, Bon Appetit, Your Majesty and it is going to have its India release soon. The show follows a French chef Yeon Ji-yeong (Im Yoon-ah) who time-slips to the past and encounters a king (played by Lee Chae-min), who is the best gourmet but also the worst tyrant. The show is based on the web novel of the same name. The teaser shows Ji-yeong slipping 500 years in the past where she tries to adapt to her new reality and impress the king with her culinary skills. The teaser ends with her declaring that she has become the tyrant king's chef. Viewers are left wondering whether she will be able to return to her reality. Talking about the show, Yoona said, "I was drawn to the theme of cooking and found the character of Yeon Ji-yeong, who works as a chef, very appealing, so I wanted to take on the challenge of playing her. Yeon Ji-yeong always speaks her mind clearly and chooses her own path instead of being led by others. Her wise, confident, and charismatic nature left a strong impression on me." The actress also revealed that she met with actual chefs and learnt everything from handling cooking tools to the entire process of cooking. The show marks Yoona's comeback on the small screen after the globally successful drama King the Land. Chae-min, on the other hand, was seen in dramas such as Love All Play, See You in My 19th Life and more. Bon Appetit, Your Majesty also stars Kang Han-na, Choi Gwi-hwa, Seo Yi-sook and Yoon Seo-ah. It will premiere in South Korea on tvN on August 23 and will also have its OTT release on Netflix on the same date. Also Read: Most Addictive Korean Dramas: Crash Landing On You, Descendants Of The Sun And More Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - Kuya Silver Corporation (CSE: KUYA) (OTCQB: KUYAF) (FSE: 6MR1) (the "Company" or "Kuya Silver") announces an amendment to its non-brokered private placement previously announced July 24, 2025 of a minimum of 10,000,000 units and up to a maximum of 20,000,000 units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at a price of CAD$0.50 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of a minimum of CAD$5,000,000 and up to a maximum of CAD$10,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Offering is being completed pursuant to the amendments to National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions set forth in Part 5A thereof (the "LIFE Exemption") to purchasers resident in Canada, except Quebec, and such other jurisdictions outside of Canada in compliance with applicable securities laws of those jurisdictions. The Company has filed a Form 45-106F19 offering document dated July 24, 2025 as amended on August 13, 2025 (the "Offering Document") related to the Offering that can be accessed under Kuya Silver's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website https://www.kuyasilver.com. Prospective investors should read the Offering Document before making an investment decision. Each Unit will consist of one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share") and one Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional Common Share at an exercise price of CAD$0.65 per Common Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. The Units issued in the Offering will not be subject to any statutory hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws, subject to limitations prescribed by the LIFE Exemption. The Company has amended the compensation payable in connection with the Offering and will only compensate finders eligible and qualified under Canadian securities laws. The compensation is comprised of a cash commission of up to 4.0% on total proceeds received from subscribers introduced to the Company by eligible finders and non-transferable Common Share purchase warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant") equal to up to 4.0% of the total Units issued to subscribers introduced to the Company by eligible finders. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one Common Share at an exercise price of CAD$0.50 per Common Share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance. Securities issued to eligible finders will be subject to a statutory hold period expiring 4 months and 1 day after issuance in accordance with the policies of the Exchange and applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for exploration and development expenses for the Company's Bethania project and general working capital purposes, as more specifically detailed in the Offering Document. The Offering may close in multiple tranches, with the first tranche closing now expected to occur on or around August 14, 2025, or such later date as the Company may determined and the final closing to occur no later than September 7, 2025. The Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the Exchange. The securities issued pursuant to the Offering have not, nor will they be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons in the absence of U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from the U.S. registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The Company also announces the engagement of ECM Capital Advisors Inc. ("ECM") of which Mr. Eugene C. McBurney, a director of Kuya Silver, is the Managing Partner. ECM will support the Company with financing and market advisory services. Mr. McBurney, B.A., M.A., LL.B., LL.D., brings over 25 years of international investment banking experience, establishing him as a trusted advisor, especially in the global mining sector. Mr. McBurney has a notable history of leading landmark transactions in natural resources, demonstrating his capability to deliver strategic outcomes for his clients. Additionally, he has extensive investment banking experience throughout the Caribbean and Latin America, with a special emphasis on Colombia. ECM's engagement is for a three-year term, unless earlier terminated at the election of either Kuya Silver or ECM, with ECM receiving a fee of $350,000 upon the successful completion of a financing with minimum proceeds of $5,000,0000. Notwithstanding the above, any fees payable to ECM in connection with this Offering will be subject to compliance with all applicable securities laws and applicable regulatory authorities. About Kuya Silver Corporation Kuya Silver is a Canadian-based, growth-oriented mining company with a focus on silver. Kuya Silver operates the Bethania silver mine in Peru, while developing district-scale silver projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions including Peru and Canada. Reader Advisory This press release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information", including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the size and terms of the Offering, closing of the Offering in one or more tranches, the anticipated use of proceeds from the Offering, and the ability of the Company to obtain requisite approvals for the Offering. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities or performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Such risks, uncertainties and factors are described in the periodic filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the Company's quarterly and annual Management's Discussion & Analysis, which may be viewed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements other than as may be required by applicable law. Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. /NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262459 SOURCE: Kuya Silver Corporation Switzerland's fastest-growing crypto bank strengthens Hong Kong presence as regulatory framework reaches new maturity AMINA Bank AG ("AMINA Bank"), a Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA)-regulated crypto bank with global reach, has appointed Michael Benz as Head of AMINA Hong Kong and the wider APAC region. Benz brings over three decades of senior leadership to AMINA Hong Kong, including Global Head of Private Banking at Standard Chartered, CEO of Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Asia, and Head of Product Services at UBS Wealth Management APAC. The appointment, following AMINA's record 2024 performance, positions AMINA to capitalise on Hong Kong's evolving regulatory framework and accelerating institutional adoption across the region. Michael will report directly to CEO Franz Bergmueller. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813000605/en/ AMINA Bank has appointed Michael Benz as the new Head of APAC. Of the appointment, Franz Bergmueller, CEO of AMINA Bank, said: "Michael's expertise in both traditional finance and crypto makes him the ideal leader to continue our expansion across Asia. His exceptional network and deep understanding of client needs will allow us to continue evolving our crypto products and capabilities. Michael's leadership ensures that we can deliver the comprehensive, regulated crypto services that our sophisticated clients demand in the region." The appointment follows a record-breaking 2024 for AMINA Bank, which achieved 69% revenue growth to reach $40.4 million, making it Switzerland's fastest-growing crypto bank. Hong Kong's regulatory environment has reached new levels of maturity with the Securities and Futures Commission's ASPIRe roadmap rollout, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority's stablecoin licensing framework that became effective August 1, and the government's Digital Asset Policy 2.0 initiative, creating unprecedented opportunities for institutional-grade crypto banking services. With a proven track record serving private, corporate, and institutional clients across Asia, Michael combines deep market knowledge and a steadfast commitment to client needs. His expertise positions him to help AMINA capitalise on Hong Kong's emergence as a global crypto hub, while delivering the trusted partnership that clients require when embracing crypto innovation. "My two decades in Asia have shown me that Hong Kong uniquely prioritises practical business adoption in a regulated environment, and crypto technology is no exception," said Michael. "This creates an extraordinary opportunity for institutions, corporates, and professional investors exploring this new asset class. What drew me to AMINA is their distinctive approach, combining regulatory excellence and rigor with Hong Kong market access to deliver crypto solutions that clients can trust. I look forward to contributing to AMINA's journey as we shape the future of financial services in Hong Kong and beyond." With Michael onboard, AMINA is poised to accelerate the expansion of its comprehensive crypto banking services while upholding strong regulatory oversight across all markets. Enhanced technology platforms launching in H2 2025, combined with new strategic partnerships in Hong Kong, will further strengthen AMINA's position as the essential infrastructure for institutional crypto adoption. About AMINA Crypto. Banking. Simplified. Founded in April 2018 and established in Zug (Switzerland), AMINA Bank AG is a pioneer in the crypto banking industry. In August 2019, AMINA Bank AG received the Swiss Banking and Securities Dealer License from the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority ("FINMA"). In February 2022, AMINA Bank AG, Abu Dhabi Global Markets ("ADGM") Branch received Financial Services Permission from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority ("FSRA") of ADGM to Advise on Investments or Credit, Arrange Deals in Investment, Arrange Credit and Arrange Custody for Professional Clients as defined in the Conduct of Business ("COBS") Rulebook. In November 2023, AMINA (Hong Kong) Limited received its Type 1 (Dealing in Securities), Type 4 (Advising on Securities) and Type 9 (Asset Management) licenses from the Securities and Futures Commission ("SFC"). CVVC Global Report and CB Insights named AMINA as one of the Top 50 Companies within the blockchain ecosystem. In 2023, AMINA won the European WealthBriefing Award in the Digital Assets Solution, Fund Manager category. AMINA was most recently recognised as Institutional Digital Asset Innovation of the Year at the Hedgeweek Global Digital Assets Awards 2025. To learn more about AMINA, visit www.aminagroup.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250813000605/en/ Contacts: Wachsman Tan Yu-Lynn yulynn.tan@wachsman.com Achieved approximately $10.8 million in revenue and interest income during the quarter ended June 30th, 2025 Wholly owned trading platforms Bitbuy and Coinsquare surpassed $1.9 billion in client assets under custody as of June 30, 2025 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - WonderFi Technologies Inc. (TSX: WNDR) (OTCQB: WONDF) (WKN: A3C166) ("WonderFi" or the "Company") today announced its financial results for the three and six months ended June 30th, 2025. All financial references are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted. Key Q2 2025 Highlights: Achieved approximately $10.8 million in revenue and interest income in Q1 2025. Bitbuy and Coinsquare surpassed $1.9 billion in client assets under custody as of June 30, 2025. On May 13th, 2025 WonderFi announced that it entered into a definitive agreement with Robinhood Markets, Inc. ("Robinhood"), pursuant to which an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Robinhood will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company for $0.36 per common share by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement"). Subsequent to Q2: On July 17 th , 2025, WonderFi securityholders approved the special resolution authorizing the Arrangement. , 2025, WonderFi securityholders approved the special resolution authorizing the Arrangement. On July 17 th , 2025, the earnout rights holders agreed to amend the earnout rights indenture dated July 7, 2023 to forgo future contingent consideration payments granted to former shareholders of CoinSmart Financial Inc. Concurrently, WonderFi decided to orderly wind up the SmartPay business segment in the third quarter of 2025. , 2025, the earnout rights holders agreed to amend the earnout rights indenture dated July 7, 2023 to forgo future contingent consideration payments granted to former shareholders of CoinSmart Financial Inc. Concurrently, WonderFi decided to orderly wind up the SmartPay business segment in the third quarter of 2025. On July 17 th , 2025 Robinhood received a no-action letter from the Canadian Competition Bureau confirming that the Commissioner of Competition does not intend to make an application under section 92 of the Competition Act (Canada) in respect of the Arrangement. , 2025 Robinhood received a no-action letter from the Canadian Competition Bureau confirming that the Commissioner of Competition does not intend to make an application under section 92 of the (Canada) in respect of the Arrangement. On July 21st, 2025, the Supreme Court of British Columbia issued a final order approving the Arrangement. WonderFi expects the proposed acquisition by Robinhood to close in the second half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Access to Financial Statements and Management Discussion and Analysis Complete financial statements along with related management discussion and analysis can be found in the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ("SEDAR+"), the electronic filing system for the disclosure documents of issuers across Canada, at www.sedarplus.ca. About WonderFi WonderFi is a leader in centralized and decentralized financial services and products. With over $1.9 billion in client assets under custody, WonderFi's regulated trading platforms are well-positioned to service crypto participants on a global scale with trading, payments and decentralized products, including purpose-built blockchains and non-custodial wallet applications. Designed to provide investors with diversified investment exposure across the global digital asset ecosystem, the Company has a proven track record of launching new products and obtaining registrations. It is also the owner of market-leading brands, including Bitbuy, Coinsquare, and Bitcoin.ca. As the world continues to move on-chain, WonderFi is strategically placed to capture both market and wallet share through ongoing innovation within the digital asset space. For more information, visit www.wonder.fi. Forward-Looking Information and Statements This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and may also contain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the beliefs of WonderFi Technologies Inc. ("WonderFi" or the "Company") regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company's control, including, specifically, the entering into of definitive agreements in respect of the partnership, the receipt of regulatory approvals in respect thereof, the timing of launch and the expected benefits of the partnership. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "planned", "estimated", "soon", "potential", "anticipate" or variations of such words. By identifying such information and statements in this manner, the Company is alerting the reader that such information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such information and statements. In addition, in connection with the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, the Company has made certain assumptions, including the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary regulatory, court and securityholder approvals; the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions for the completion of the Arrangement, and other expectations and assumptions concerning the proposed Arrangement. The anticipated dates indicated may change for a number of reasons, including the necessary regulatory, securityholder and court approvals, the necessity to extend the time limits for satisfying the other conditions for the completion of the proposed Arrangement. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking financial information and statements are the following: the failure of the parties to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals or to otherwise satisfy the conditions for the completion of the Arrangement in a timely manner. Failure to obtain the necessary regulatory approvals, or the failure of the parties to otherwise satisfy the conditions for the completion of the Arrangement or to complete the Arrangement, may result in the Arrangement not being completed on the proposed terms or at all. These risks are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect the Company; however, these factors should be considered carefully. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein. The impact of any one assumption, risk, uncertainty, or other factor on a particular forward-looking statement cannot be determined with certainty because they are interdependent and the Company's future decisions and actions will depend on management's assessment of all information at the relevant time. A more fulsome description of risk factors that may impact business, financial condition and results of operation with respect to WonderFi is set out in its management's discussion and analysis and financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2025, available on its SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf is expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice. All financial amounts referenced herein are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise expressly identified. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262467 SOURCE: WonderFi Technologies Inc. New platform boosts patient experience and safety, reduces clinician burden, and unlocks operational insight across inpatient mental health hospitals SYDNEY, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Alpha Global, a trusted provider of technology-driven solutions for healthcare and care providers in Australia and New Zealand, today announced an exclusive distribution agreement for the newly launched LIO mental health operating platform. Jeremy Clare, Head of Product at Alpha Global, said: "We're incredibly excited to bring the second generation of mental health monitoring technology to Australia with the launch of LIO. This platform is a significant step forward in supporting clinicians with intelligent, contactless insights that enhance patient care and safety. It's a proud moment for us to introduce a solution purpose-built for mental health environments - one that reflects our mission to connect healthcare professionals and carers with integrated technology that transforms patient outcomes." LIO combines ambient monitoring, digital observations, and management insights into one unified platform. This all-in-one approach supports both frontline teams and hospital leaders, making it easier to deliver safe, high-quality, and efficient care across inpatient mental health wards and services. Todd Haedrich, CEO of LIO, added: "LIO is a fully integrated, whole-hospital solution - purpose-built for the complex realities of inpatient mental health - with powerful capabilities that help providers deliver consistently high standards of compassionate, patient-centred care. We're fortunate to partner with such a credible and respected organisation in Australia to ensure providers and patients have access to this much-needed technology." Key features of LIO's new platform include: Adaptive monitoring modes - personalising care, protecting patient privacy, and managing safety risks Next-generation digital observations - with smart scheduling, missed observation alerts, and a dedicated 1:1 mode for improved care quality Advanced compliance reporting - enabling transparent, accountable governance Optimised EPR integration - reducing duplication and streamlining documentation New ambient monitoring unit - for faster, easier installation LIO is available now to Australian hospitals. For more information on LIO , visit www.liohealth.com. Or www.alpha.global Media contact: Jeremy Clare Head of Product Mobile: +61 499 299 599 Email: jeremy.clare@alpha.global About Alpha Global Alpha Global is a leading provider of technology-driven solutions for healthcare and care providers across Australia and New Zealand. Our mission is simple - to simplify the way people connect by delivering intuitive solutions that transform care. We partner with world-leading solution providers and work closely with healthcare professionals to break down silos, create seamless connections, and enable better outcomes - from hospital to home and into the community. About LIO LIO is the all-in-one platform for inpatient mental health, uniting ambient monitoring, digital observations, and management insights in a single, purpose-built solution. Its contactless design promotes patient comfort, while medical device-grade software ensures clinical accuracy. Backed by dozens of peer-reviewed studies and deployed in hundreds of facilities - including half of NHS mental health trusts - LIO helps providers reduce risk, enhance efficiency, and improve the experience of care. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2747973/LIO_Logo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749679/Alpha_Global_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/alpha-global-partners-with-lio-to-redefine-mental-health-care-in-australia-302529075.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 13, 2025) - CGX Energy Inc. (TSXV: OYL) ("CGX" or the "Company") today announced the release of its unaudited consolidated financial statements and Management Discussion and Analysis for the second quarter of 2025 (together, the "Financial Disclosures"), which include the recognition of an impairment loss of $56.4 million on its exploration and evaluation assets related to the Company's Corentyne Block. The Company evaluated the Corentyne exploration & evaluation asset's recoverability given the Government of Guyana's ("GoG") conduct and communications, and its unwillingness to recognize the rights of Frontera Energy Guyana Corp. ("Frontera Guyana") and CGX Resources Inc. ("CGX Resources" and together with Frontera Guyana, the "Joint Venture") during the consultation periods, which have since expired. Although all contractual requirements of the Company have been met and an external legal assessment determined that the Company's interests in the licenses and agreements for the Corentyne block remain valid, the GoG's positions mentioned above have restricted the Company's ability to develop activities under those licenses and agreements. This situation has led to uncertainty regarding the asset's future development and constituted an impairment indicator. Consequently, the Company recognized an impairment of $56.4 million its income statement, and the Corentyne E&E asset's carrying value as of June 30, 2025 is $Nil (December 31, 2024 $56.2 million). The Joint Venture remains firmly of the view that its interests in, and the license for, the Corentyne block remain in place and in good standing and that the Petroleum Agreement has not been terminated. The Joint Venture remains committed to working with the GoG to resolve these issues amicably, while preparing to assert and protect our legal and contractual rights through all available legal remedies, as necessary. The Company also announced that, effective today, Dr. Suresh Narine has resigned from his positions as Executive Director, Guyana and Executive Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors of CGX (the "Board") and from his positions with the Company's subsidiaries to pursue academic endeavours. The Company has initiated a search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer and will provide a further update when available. CGX is pleased to announce the appointment of Alejandra Bonilla and Rene Burgos Diaz as new directors, and the election of Orlando Cabrales, as Chairman of the Board. In connection with such appointments, Gabriel de Alba has decided to step down from his role as a director of the Company. "The Board would like to extend our thanks to Gabriel and Suresh for their years of service and strategic leadership of the Company, and wishes them both all the best in their future endeavours," said Orlando Cabrales, Chairman of the Board. Alejandra Bonilla is the General Counsel & Secretary of Frontera Energy Corporation ("Frontera"). She has more than 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and has held different roles in Frontera from 2011 to 2020. From April 2020 to March 2021, she was appointed partner of the energy practice at Dentons Cardenas & Cardenas, an international law firm. In March 2021, Mrs. Bonilla rejoined Frontera, at which time she was appointed General Counsel & Secretary. Rene Burgos Diaz is the Chief Financial Officer of Frontera since June 2022. He is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in corporate finance, financial markets, and operational leadership, with deep expertise in Latin America and the energy sector. Prior to joining as Chief Financial Officer, he served on Frontera's Board of Directors from December 2019 to June 2022, including roles on both the Audit Committee and the Compensation and Human Resources Committee. Following these changes, the Board consists of: Orlando Cabrales (Chairman and Director), Dennis Mills (Director), Rene Burgos Diaz (Director), and Alejandra Bonilla (Director). The Financial Disclosures will be posted on the Company's website at www.cgxenergy.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All values in the Financial Disclosures and this press release are in United States dollars unless otherwise stated. About CGX CGX is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company focused on the exploration of oil in the Guyana-Suriname Basin and the development of a deep-water port in Berbice, Guyana. NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information relates to activities, events or developments that CGX believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, without limitation, statements relating to the Joint Venture's continuing efforts and investments in the Corentyne block, the significant prospective resources discovered therein, the outcome of the search for a new Chief Executive Officer and the licensing status of the Corentyne block. All information other than historical fact is forward-looking information. Forward-looking information reflects the current expectations, assumptions and beliefs of CGX based on information currently available to it and considers the experience of CGX and its perception of historical trends. Although CGX believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be placed on such information. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, some that are similar to other oil and gas companies and some that are unique to CGX and the Joint Venture, including the ability of the Joint Venture to reach an agreement with the Government of Guyana, the impairment and its possible reversal. No assurance can be given that such an agreement with the Government of Guyana will be reached or that the impairment will be reversed . The actual results of the Joint Venture may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on CGX. CGX's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, and other documents CGX files from time to time with securities regulatory authorities describe the risks, uncertainties, material assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results and such factors are incorporated herein by reference. Copies of these documents are available without charge by referring to CGX's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, CGX disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262469 SOURCE: CGX Energy Inc. Kunstliche Intelligenz, Magnificent Seven, Tech-Euphorie seit Monaten scheint an der Borse nur eine Richtung zu existieren: nach oben. Doch hinter den Rekordkursen lauert eine gefahrliche Wahrheit. Die Bewertungen vieler Tech-Schwergewichte haben historische Extremniveaus erreicht. Shiller-KGV bei 39, Buffett-Indikator auf Allzeithoch schon in der Dotcom-Ara war der Markt kaum teurer. Hinzu kommen euphorische Anlegerstimmung, IPO-Hypes ohne Substanz, kreditfinanzierte Wertpapierkaufe in Rekordhohe und charttechnische Warnsignale, die Erinnerungen an 2000 und 2021 wecken. Gleichzeitig drucken geopolitische Risiken, Trumps aggressive Zollpolitik und saisonale Borsenschwache auf die Perspektiven. Die Gefahr: Aus der schleichenden Korrektur konnte ein rasanter Crash werden und der konnte vor allem uberbewertete KI- und Chipwerte hart treffen. In unserem kostenlosen Spezial-Report zeigen wir Ihnen, welche Tech-Aktien am starksten gefahrdet sind und wie Sie Ihr Depot vor dem Platzen der Blase schutzen konnten. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Ad-hoc announcement pursuant to Article 53 of the SIX listing rules Kuros Biosciences Reports First Half of 2025 Results Financial Highlights Total Medical Device sales rose by 78% to USD 63.5 million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD 35.7 million) Direct MagnetOs sales increased by 77% to USD 62.7 million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD 35.4 million) The Group achieved its first-ever operating profit, reaching USD 3.5 million, compared to an operating loss of USD (0.2) million in H1 2024 Total Group EBITDA reached USD 5.1 million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD 0.8 million) and total Group adjusted EBITDA * amounted to USD 7.8 million in H1 2025, equaling a margin of 12.3% (H1 2024: USD 4.5 million at 12.6%). After amortization, depreciation, the net finance result, income tax and the profit/loss from discontinued operations, the Group reported a net loss of USD (2.0) million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD (0.2) million) amounted to USD 7.8 million in H1 2025, equaling a margin of 12.3% (H1 2024: USD 4.5 million at 12.6%). After amortization, depreciation, the net finance result, income tax and the profit/loss from discontinued operations, the Group reported a net loss of USD (2.0) million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD (0.2) million) Cash position remains strong while funding strategic growth initiatives and investing in working capital, with cash and cash equivalents totaling USD 18.4 million as of June 30, 2025 (December 31, 2024: USD 19.8 million) Reporting currency changed from CHF to USD to align with the Group's primary market and operational footprint in the U.S. The Group continues to expect sales growth of at least 60% in 2025 and anticipates sales of between USD 220 million and USD 250 million by 2027 Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, August 14, 2025 - Kuros Biosciences ("Kuros" or the "Company") a leader in next generation bone healing technologies, today announced its financial and operational results for the first half of 2025, demonstrating continued momentum in growth, broader market reach, and progress on key strategic priorities. Total group revenue reached USD 63.5 million, marking a growth of 78% compared to H1 2024. Revenue from Direct MagnetOs product sales increased 77% year-on-year to USD 62.7 million (H1 2024: USD 35.4 million). The company achieved an operating profit of USD 3.5 million in the first half of 2025, marking its first positive operating result, up from an operating loss of USD (0.2) million in H1 2024. The Group achieved an EBITDA of USD 5.1 million in H1 2025, increasing from USD 0.8 million in H1 2024. Adjusted EBITDA* totaled at USD 7.8 million, up from USD 4.5 million in H1 2024. This represents an adjusted EBITDA* margin of 12.3%. The Group does not expect a material impact from U.S. tariffs in 2025. Finally, the reporting currency was changed from Swiss francs (CHF) to U.S. dollars (USD) to reflect the Group's primary market and business activities. Chris Fair, Chief Executive Officer of Kuros Biosciences, said: "We recorded exceptional company revenue growth of 78%, marking a pivotal phase of scale and impact for Kuros. An outstanding accomplishment is that the group has for the first time ever recorded an operating profit. With FDA clearance and U.S. launch of MagnetOs MIS, accelerating growth in extremities, and entry into new international markets, we continue to deliver with innovation, precision, and purpose. The strategic alliance with Medtronic is expanding our reach across U.S. spine markets, while our new Atlanta headquarters will enable domestic production and an immersive educational experience for surgeons, partners, and investors. Backed by strong financial performance, an experienced and diverse board, and momentum across all segments, we are well-positioned to sustain growth and create long-term value for patients, providers, and shareholders globally." Commercial, Operational & Regulatory Highlights Medtronic U.S. Spine Partnership Gains Traction - In January 2025, Kuros finalized a five-year exclusive strategic sales agent agreement with the Medtronic spinal division for MagnetOs in mutually agreed upon U.S. sales territories. The partnership, which evolved from a successful pilot, is accelerating commercial access and hospital entry across key geographies, serving as a major force multiplier for Kuros' U.S. growth. - In January 2025, Kuros finalized a five-year exclusive strategic sales agent agreement with the Medtronic spinal division for MagnetOs in mutually agreed upon U.S. sales territories. The partnership, which evolved from a successful pilot, is accelerating commercial access and hospital entry across key geographies, serving as a major force multiplier for Kuros' U.S. growth. FDA Clearance & First Cases with MagnetOs MIS Delivery System - Kuros has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its MagnetOs MIS Delivery System, a sterile, prefilled, single-use delivery system engineered for Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) in spine procedures. The system enables three times faster graft placement compared to traditional funnel-based methods, combining precise delivery with compelling Level I clinical data. 1 ,2 Dr. Daniel Park, orthopedic spine surgeon, performed his first case using the new FDA-cleared system in Southfield, Michigan. "MagnetOs MIS delivered smooth, precise graft placement in a typically challenging MIS TLIF case - no preparation, no thawing, just immediate delivery and efficiency. It pairs streamlined handling with compelling clinical data, making it a meaningful advancement for surgeons who value both efficiency and biologically robust healing," said Dr. Park. - Kuros has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its MagnetOs MIS Delivery System, a sterile, prefilled, single-use delivery system engineered for Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) in spine procedures. The system enables three times faster graft placement compared to traditional funnel-based methods, combining precise delivery with compelling Level I clinical data. Dr. Daniel Park, orthopedic spine surgeon, performed his first case using the new FDA-cleared system in Southfield, Michigan. "MagnetOs MIS delivered smooth, precise graft placement in a typically challenging MIS TLIF case - no preparation, no thawing, just immediate delivery and efficiency. It pairs streamlined handling with compelling clinical data, making it a meaningful advancement for surgeons who value both efficiency and biologically robust healing," said Dr. Park. Continued Momentum in Extremities Market - With an established team dedicated to the extremities segment, Kuros is laying the groundwork for long-term success. Early progress has been promising, and the team continues to focus on targeted surgeon and distributor engagement, training, and brand awareness through an omnichannel strategy that includes key scientific meetings and driving social media presence. - With an established team dedicated to the extremities segment, Kuros is laying the groundwork for long-term success. Early progress has been promising, and the team continues to focus on targeted surgeon and distributor engagement, training, and brand awareness through an omnichannel strategy that includes key scientific meetings and driving social media presence. Global Expansion Accelerates - Following recent approval of MagnetOs Granules, ANVISA has now approved MagnetOs Putty for use in Brazil, further expanding Kuros' commercial presence in the growing South American spine market and building on recent global clearances in Lebanon and beyond. - Following recent approval of MagnetOs Granules, ANVISA has now approved MagnetOs Putty for use in Brazil, further expanding Kuros' commercial presence in the growing South American spine market and building on recent global clearances in Lebanon and beyond. First Capital Markets Day Successfully Completed - In May 2025, Kuros hosted its inaugural Capital Markets Day in Zurich, welcoming over 130 attendees in-person and online. The event showcased the company's scientific leadership, global commercial strategy, and clinically proven differentiated approach to bone healing - featuring insights from a leading U.S. foot and ankle surgeon on how bone graft choice directly impacts patient outcomes and day-to-day quality of life. In addition, the Group presented the progress made in transforming its business from a functional, structural and digital perspective. - In May 2025, Kuros hosted its inaugural Capital Markets Day in Zurich, welcoming over 130 attendees in-person and online. The event showcased the company's scientific leadership, global commercial strategy, and clinically proven differentiated approach to bone healing - featuring insights from a leading U.S. foot and ankle surgeon on how bone graft choice directly impacts patient outcomes and day-to-day quality of life. In addition, the Group presented the progress made in transforming its business from a functional, structural and digital perspective. New U.S. Headquarters and Production Facility Construction Underway - As part of its U.S. operational expansion strategy, Kuros has secured a location in Atlanta for a new office and manufacturing facility. The site is expected to support diversified manufacturing and enable Kuros to scale operations and engagement in line with accelerating demand for MagnetOs, with an immersive experience for surgeons, partners, and investors-highlighting the science, innovation, and clinical impact of MagnetOs in an engaging environment. Net operating costs Cost of goods sold amounted to USD 7.1 million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD 3.9 million) of which USD 0.9 million (H1 2024: USD 0.9 million) relate to the amortization of capitalized R&D. Net operating costs from continuing operations amounted to USD 52.8 million in H1 2025, compared to USD 32.0 million in the prior year period. Sales and marketing costs increased from USD 20.7 million in H1 2024 to USD 37.4 million in H1 2025, primarily driven by an expanded sales force and higher sales and distribution expenses, in line with the Group's continued commercial expansion. The increase also reflects the initial investments to penetrate the extremities and international markets, supporting future revenue growth and a broader market reach. Research and development costs of continuing operations increased from USD 3.6 million in H1 2024 to USD 4.3 million in H1 2025. This is primarily driven by increased R&D activities, clinical trial expenditures, and higher personnel expenses due to an increase in headcount, reflecting the Group's ongoing commitment to innovation to support long-term growth. General and administrative costs increased from USD 7.8 million in H1 2024 to USD 11.1 million in H1 2025. The increase was mainly driven by the scaling up of back-office functions and building the digital infrastructure to support business growth. Operating profit/ (loss) and group net result The operating profit from continuing operations amounted to USD 3.5 million (H1 2024: operating loss from continuing operations of USD (0.2) million). After accounting for the net finance result, income tax and the profit/loss from discontinued operations, the Group reported a net loss of USD (2.0) million in H1 2025 (H1 2024: USD (0.2) million). Financial position and other assets Cash and cash equivalents amounted to USD 18.4 million as of H1 2025 (December 31, 2024: USD 19.8 million). The decrease in cash balance compared to year-end 2024 is mainly attributable to ongoing investments in growth initiatives and working capital to support rising demand. Funds available (including trade and other receivables) for financing the operations of Kuros amounted to USD 45.3 million as of H1 2025. This is an increase of USD 7.8 million from USD 37.5 million as of December 31, 2024. As of H1 2025, total intangible assets amounted to USD 17.6 million (2024: USD 16.4 million) and goodwill amounted to USD 24.2 million (2024: USD 21.3 million). Outlook Kuros expects MagnetOs to continue its strong growth trajectory in the spine and extremity segments, gaining further market share in the U.S., Europe and the rest of the world, and launching in additional countries. The company remains sufficiently financed to support its planned organic growth path and continues to expect robust sales growth of at least 60% in 2025. Based on the solid performance in the first half of the year, Kuros is anticipating sales of USD 220 to 250 million by 2027, reflecting its commitment to long-term value creation through innovation, market share gains, and customer satisfaction. Key figures H1 2025 H1 2024 Restated In TUSD, IFRS Revenue from product sales 63,480 35,684 Cost of goods sold (7,148) (3,896) Gross profit 56,332 31,788 Sales and marketing costs (37,394) (20,723) Research and development costs (4,305) (3,610) General and administrative costs (11,136) (7,826) Other income 6 126 Net operating costs (52,829) (32,033) Operating profit/ (loss) 3,503 (245) Net finance result (3,366) 1,857 Profit before tax 137 1,612 Income taxes (2,173) (1,466) Net (loss)/ profit from continuing operations (2,036) 146 Profit/ (loss) from discontinued operation, net of tax 23 (382) Net loss (2,013) (236) Net loss per share from continuing operations (in USD) (0.05) 0.00 Net loss per share (in USD) (0.05) (0.01) June 30, 2025 Dec 31, 2024 Restated Cash and cash equivalents 18,442 19,762 Trade and other receivables 26,886 17,698 Half Year Report 2025 The Kuros Biosciences Half Year Report 2025 can be downloaded via the following link on our website: Kuros Biosciences Interim Report 2025 Half Year Results 2025 - Webcast Kuros will host a virtual webcast to discuss H1 2025 financial results on August 14, 2025, at 3:00pm CET. Investors can join the webcast via the following link: Investor Webcast Registration The respective presentation can be downloaded via the following link: Kuros Biosciences WebCast H1 2025 Upcoming Events October 16, 2025 - Trading Update Q3 2025 For further information, please contact: Kuros Biosciences AG Alexandre Muller Daniel Geiger Investor Relations Chief Financial Officer Tel +41 43 268 32 31 Tel +41 44 733 47 41 IR@kurosbio.com (mailto:IR@kurosbio.com) daniel.geiger@kurosbio.com (mailto:daniel.geiger@kurosbio.com) About MagnetOs Growing bone with MagnetOsTM gives surgeons confidence where it matters most - delivering predictable fusion outcomes.2 In a Level I human clinical study published in Spine, MagnetOs achieved nearly twice the fusion rate (79% vs. 47%) of autograft in posterolateral fusions (PLFs).2 Among active smokers - who made up 1 in 5 patients - the fusion difference between MagnetOs and autograft was even more dramatic.**2,3 MagnetOs grows bone on its own thanks to NeedleGripTM - a proprietary submicron surface technology that harnesses the immune system to stimulate bone growth, without added cells or growth factors.4-9 Ready-to-use, easy to mold, and reliably staying put10, MagnetOs carries no intrinsic risk of human tissue-related disease transmission and is FDA cleared for use throughout the spine, including interbody procedures.6-9 Indications Statement Please refer to the instructions for use for your local region for a full list of indications, contraindications, warnings, and precautions. About Kuros Biosciences Kuros Biosciences is on a mission to discover, develop and deliver innovative biologic technologies. With locations in the United States, Switzerland and the Netherlands, the company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. The company's first commercial product, MagnetOsTM, is a unique advanced bone graft that has already been used across four continents. For more information on the company, its products and pipeline, visit kurosbio.com. Forward Looking Statements This media release contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are urged to consider statements that include the words "will" or "expect" or the negative of those words or other similar words to be uncertain and forward-looking. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements include scientific, business, economic and financial factors. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility for updating forward-looking statements or adapting them to future events or developments. * Adjusted EBITDA excludes recurring and one-time share-based compensation and the relevant social security charges ** 19 of initial 100 patients were active smokers. Radiographic fusion data of the smoker subgroup were not statistically analyzed as a subgroup and were not included in the peer-reviewed publication of the study.2 Results from in vitro or in vivo laboratory testing may not be predictive of clinical experience in humans. For important safety and intended use information please visit kurosbio.com. MagnetOs is not cleared by the FDA or TGA as an osteoinductive bone graft. MagnetOs must also be used with an intervertebral body fusion device cleared by FDA for use with a bone void filler. MagnetOs Flex Matrix must be hydrated with BMA & mixed with autograft in posterolateral spine & intervertebral disc space. MagnetOs Granules must be hydrated with blood in the intervertebral disc space. Data on file. MagnetOs MIS. Stempels, et al. Spine. 2024;49(19):1323-1331. van Dijk, LA. 24th SGS Annual Meeting (Swiss Society of Spinal Surgery). Basel, Switzerland. Aug 2024. van Dijk, et al. eCM. 2021;41:756-73. van Dijk, et al. J Immunol Regen Med. 2023;19:100070. Instructions for Use (IFU) MagnetOs Granules. Instructions for Use (IFU) MagnetOs Putty. Instructions for Use (IFU) MagnetOs Easypack Putty. Instructions for Use (IFU) MagnetOs Flex Matrix. Data on file. MagnetOs Putty and MagnetOs Easypack Putty. Attachment Ende Mai leitete US-Prasident Donald Trump mit der Unterzeichnung mehrerer Dekrete eine weitreichende Wende in der amerikanischen Energiepolitik ein. Im Fokus: der beschleunigte Ausbau der Kernenergie. Mit einem umfassenden Manahmenpaket sollen Genehmigungsprozesse reformiert, kleinere Reaktoren gefordert und der Anteil von Atomstrom in den USA massiv gesteigert werden. Ausloser ist der explodierende Energiebedarf durch KI-Rechenzentren, der eine stabile, CO-arme Grundlastversorgung zwingend notwendig macht. In unserem kostenlosen Spezialreport erfahren Sie, welche 3 Unternehmen jetzt im Zentrum dieser energiepolitischen Neuausrichtung stehen, und wer vom kommenden Boom der Nuklearindustrie besonders profitieren konnte. Holen Sie sich den neuesten Report! Verpassen Sie nicht, welche Aktien besonders von der Energiewende in den USA profitieren durften, und laden Sie sich das Gratis-PDF jetzt kostenlos herunter. Dieses exklusive Angebot gilt aber nur fur kurze Zeit! Daher jetzt downloaden! Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Allschwil, Switzerland, August 14, 2025 Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil (SIX: BSLN), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to meeting the needs of patients with severe bacterial and fungal infections, announced today that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Venatorx Pharmaceuticals, Inc., to acquire the global rights to ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil, a clinical phase 3-ready oral beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) combination for the potential treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI), including pyelonephritis. Ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil is the combination of ceftibuten, an orally bioavailable cephalosporin antibiotic, and ledaborbactam etzadroxil, the orally bioavailable prodrug of the novel beta-lactamase inhibitor ledaborbactam. The combination demonstrates bactericidal activity against Enterobacterales, including multidrug-resistant pathogens, the major cause of cUTI.[1] In the USA, cUTI account for more than 600,000 hospital admissions each year.[2] This underscores the significant clinical burden and need for effective oral treatment options, which may shorten or entirely avoid hospitalization. In preclinical and clinical phase 1 studies, ceftibuten and ledaborbactam etzadroxil were shown to be safe and well tolerated.[3] David Veitch, Chief Executive Officer of Basilea, said: "This agreement allows us to strengthen our late-stage clinical pipeline and supports our strategy of ensuring that we have a continuous stream of potential new product launches in the near-term future, positioning us for sustainable substantial revenue growth. Ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil holds strong promise in addressing the critical unmet need for the oral treatment of cUTI caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and represents a compelling global commercial opportunity. We expect starting a registrational phase 3 program in cUTI in about 18 months." Under the terms of the agreement, Basilea will make an upfront payment and potential milestone payments in 2025. Following the successful completion of the phase 3 clinical development program and after the grant of regulatory approval and start of commercialization, Venatorx is eligible to receive tiered mid-single-digit royalties and additional potential milestone payments of up to USD 325 million in total, if all agreed commercial milestone events are triggered over the term of the contract. The transaction is expected to result in approximately CHF 15 million of additional research and development expenses in 2025, including the full upfront payment, all potential pre-commercial milestone payments and expected R&D expenses in 2025. Basilea will provide updated financial guidance for the full-year 2025, reflecting this transaction, with the half-year earnings report on August 19, 2025. About beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) combinations Many Gram-negative bacteria express enzymes such as extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) that confer resistance against commonly used antibiotics. Beta-lactamase inhibitors block these enzymes and restore the activity of beta-lactam antibiotics against initially resistant Gram-negative bacteria, therefore BL/BLI combinations are an important addition to the armamentarium for the treatment of infections by multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens. About ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil Ledaborbactam etzadroxil is the orally bioavailable prodrug of ledaborbactam, a novel broad-spectrum boronic acid beta-lactamase inhibitor, which is being developed in combination with ceftibuten, an oral cephalosporin antibiotic, which is approved in the US for the treatment of upper and lower respiratory tract infections and for urinary tract infections outside the US. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that ledaborbactam etzadroxil restores the activity of ceftibuten against strains of Enterobacterales expressing Ambler class A extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), class C cephalosporinases, and class A and D carbapenemases (KPC and OXA-48, respectively) as well as multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacterales.[4] Ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil has been granted Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) and Fast Track designations by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cUTI and uncomplicated urinary tract infections. Ceftibuten-ledaborbactam etzadroxil is an investigational drug and is not yet approved in any country for commercial use. About complicated urinary tract infections (cUTI) Complicated UTIs, which include pyelonephritis (kidney infections), are defined as urinary tract infections ascending from the bladder accompanied by local and systemic signs and symptoms and are one of the most common bacterial infections in hospital and community settings. Increasing resistance of bacteria causing complicated urinary tract infections has led to limited availability of effective oral antibiotic treatment options.[1] Currently, there are no approved oral beta-lactam or beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations that are effective against Enterobacterales expressing Ambler class A ESBLs, class C cephalosporinases, and class A & D serine carbapenemases (KPC and OXA-48). About Venatorx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Venatorx is a private, late-stage clinical pharmaceutical company focused on improving health outcomes for patients with multidrug-resistant bacterial infections and hard-to-treat viral infections. Venatorx also developed cefepime-taniborbactam, an intravenous-only antibiotic that successfully completed a Phase 3 study in adults with complicated urinary tract infections. About Basilea Basilea is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company founded in 2000 and headquartered in Switzerland. We are committed to discovering, developing and commercializing innovative drugs to meet the needs of patients with severe bacterial and fungal infections. We have successfully launched two hospital brands, Cresemba for the treatment of invasive fungal infections and Zevtera for the treatment of bacterial infections. In addition, we have preclinical and clinical anti-infective assets in our portfolio. Basilea is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. Disclaimer This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements, such as "believe", "assume", "expect", "forecast", "project", "may", "could", "might", "will" or similar expressions concerning Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil and its business, including with respect to the progress, timing and completion of research, development and clinical studies for product candidates. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd, Allschwil is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. For further information, please contact: Peer Nils Schroder, PhD Head of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations Basilea Pharmaceutica International Ltd, Allschwil Hegenheimermattweg 167b 4123 Allschwil Switzerland Phone +41 61 606 1102 E-mail media_relations@basilea.com (mailto:media_relations@basilea.com) investor_relations@basilea.com (mailto:investor_relations@basilea.com) This ad hoc announcement can be downloaded from www.basilea.com. References T. P. Lodise, T. Chopra, B. H. Nathanson et al. Epidemiology of Complicated Urinary Tract Infections due to Enterobacterales Among Adult Patients Presenting in Emergency Departments Across the United States. Open Forum Infectious Diseases 2022, Jun 24;9(7):ofac315. M. D. Zilberberg, B. H. Nathanson, K. Sulham et al. Descriptive Epidemiology and Outcomes of Hospitalizations With Complicated Urinary Tract Infections in the United States, 2018. Open Forum Infectious Diseases 2022, Jan 10;9(1):ofab591 C. F. de Oliveira, M. B. Dorr, K. Lowe et al. Evaluation of Single and Multiple Dose Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Ledaborbactam Etzadroxil and Ceftibuten-Ledaborbactam Etzadroxil in Healthy Volunteers. Open Forum Infectious Diseases 2025, Jan 29;12(Suppl 1):ofae631.1425 J. A. Karlowsky, M. G. Wise, M. A. Hackel et al. Ceftibuten-Ledaborbactam Activity against Multidrug-Resistant and Extended-Spectrum--Lactamase-Positive Clinical Isolates of Enterobacterales from a 2018-2020 Global Surveillance Collection. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 2022, Nov 15;66(11):e0093422 Attachment CCTE's first-of-its-kind, thorium-based fuel continues to surpass burnup records, paving the way for safer and more sustainable nuclear power The glowing blue core of the Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory. CHICAGO, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) announces the second major milestone for its patented Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life (ANEEL) fuel, which has now reached a burnup level of over 45 gigawatt-days per metric ton (GWd/MTU) in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at the U.S. Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory (INL). This achievement outpaces the capabilities of conventional nuclear fuels used in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and CANDU reactors. In May 2024, twelve ANEEL fuel rodlets were loaded into the ATR for irradiation to achieve three burnup level targets. The first successful irradiation of four rodlets surpassed 20 GWd/MTU last year. CCTE is excited to report that the second set of four rodlets have exceeded 45 GWd/MTU-six to seven times the average discharge burnup for PHWR/CANDU reactors that are designed to use natural uranium fuel. The newly irradiated rodlets are currently cooling in the ATR water pool and will soon be transferred to INL's Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC) for detailed post-irradiation examination. The final four rodlets will remain in the ATR for continued irradiation, with expected burnup levels exceeding 60 GWd/MTU. These results underscore ANEEL fuel's potential to redefine performance and sustainability standards in the nuclear industry. Developed by CCTE, the fuel uniquely combines thorium with High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) to offer a safer, more efficient, and proliferation-resistant alternative for existing and future PHWR and other CANDU reactor fleets worldwide. Mehul Shah, Founder and CEO of CCTE Thorium Energy, said: "This second burnup milestone is a transformative moment for CCTE and for the future of nuclear energy. ANEEL fuel is not just demonstrating superior technical performance-it's proving that thorium-based solutions can meaningfully address global challenges of energy security, nuclear waste, and proliferation. Our successful partnership with INL is helping unlock a new era for advanced nuclear fuels." Dr. Koroush Shirvan, Head of Fuel Design at CCTE and Professor at MIT, added: "The collection of this data positions ANEEL fuel as a prime candidate for near-term deployment in PHWRs" Dr. Michael Worrall, Technical Lead for the CCTE ATR Irradiation at INL, noted: "ANEEL's performance in the ATR is a strong indicator of the promise thorium-based fuels hold in supporting future energy goals and diversifying the nuclear fuel landscape." Dr. Daniel Wachs, National Technical Director for the DOE Advanced Fuels Campaign (AFC) and Nuclear Fuels and Materials Directorate Fellow at INL, said: "The partnership between INL and CCTE is a great example of how the INL and private sector innovators can collaborate to rapidly develop advanced nuclear technologies with the potential to impact the marketplace worldwide." Gamma scanning of ANEEL irradiated capsules at the INL's hot cell facility. About Clean Core Thorium Energy Clean Core Thorium Energy is a U.S.-based nuclear innovation company developing advanced nuclear fuel solutions using thorium and HALEU. Its patented ANEEL fuel is designed to enhance the safety, economics, and nonproliferation profile of PHWRs and CANDU reactors while drastically reducing nuclear waste. Learn more at https://cleancore.energy. Follow us on LinkedIn and X. About Idaho National Laboratory Managed by Battelle Energy Alliance for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy, INL is the nation's leading center for nuclear energy research and development. INL is celebrating 75 years of scientific leadership in energy, security, and environmental innovation. Learn more at www.inl.gov. Follow INL on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. Media Contact: Milan Shah Email: info@cleancore.energy Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/61b3b1c5-0ddd-47bc-b882-b0cffa394d18 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4ddab43b-8628-4284-9ddd-3c584e3ceaee TAMPERE, Finland, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bioretec Ltd Company announcement 14 August 2025 at 8.00 am EEST This company announcement is a summary of Bioretec Ltd's half-year report for January-June 2025. The complete half-year report with tables is attached to this release as a pdf file and available at the company's web pages at https://investors.bioretec.com/en/reports_and_presentations. The half-year report is unaudited. April-June 2025 in brief Bioretec successfully closed a funding round of EUR 9 million, demonstrating investor confidence in the company. Activa sales developed as expected, with growth particularly in China and Asia, while momentum for RemeOs TM sales builds globally. sales builds globally. First surgeries performed with RemeOs Trauma Screw in Europe mark another key event supporting the commercialization of RemeOs product line worldwide. Net sales decreased by 51.7% and amounted to EUR 665 thousand (4-6/2024: EUR 1,379 thousand). The net sales was impacted by a one-time credit invoice related to the conclusion of a U.S. pilot distribution agreement, and a shift from stocking to direct distribution partners in the U.S.. Furthermore, the comparison period included a high initial delivery to a new distributor outside the U.S. Sales to stocking distributors are lumpy and may cause quarterly variance in net sales. Sales margin (excl. other income) was EUR 194 (1,033) thousand, or 29.1% (74.9%) of net sales. Sales margin reflects preparation for commercial growth and was impacted by an increase in materials and services costs related to the shift in distribution partners, as well as the lower margin of sales to China. Sales margin during the market development and scale-up phases is planned to improve as sales increase and direct distribution channel partners are well established. Profit (loss) for the reporting period was EUR -3,504 (-787) thousand. The cost of the rights issue financing round arranged in June 2025 amounted to EUR 1,065 thousand. Earnings per share (undiluted) were EUR -0.12 (-0.04). January-June 2025 in brief Net sales amounted to EUR 2,062 thousand (1-6/2024: EUR 2,061 thousand). Sales margin (excl. other income) was EUR 1,016 (1,451) thousand or 49.3% (70.4%) of net sales. The sales margin includes other income of EUR 202 (71) thousand accrued relating to received grants. Profit (loss) for the reporting period was EUR -4,801 (-1,884) thousand. Earnings per share (undiluted) were EUR -0.16 (-0.09). Key figures EUR 1,000 4-6/2025 4-6/2024 Change, % 1-6/2025 1-6/2024 Change, % 1-12/2024 Net sales 665 1,379 -51.7 % 2,062 2,061 0.0 % 4,544 Sales margin 297 1,045 -71.6 % 1,218 1,523 -20.0 % 3,391 Sales margin (excl. other income) 194 1,033 -81.2 % 1,016 1,451 -22.9 % 3,221 Sales margin, % of net sales 44.6 % 75.7 % 59.1 % 73.9 % 74.6 % Sales margin% (excl. other income) 29.1 % 74.9 % 49.3 % 70.4 % 70.9 % EBITDA -2,494 -752 231.5 % -3,730 -1,864 100.1 % -4,053 EBIT -2,547 -782 225.7 % -3,833 -1,921 99.5 % -4,202 Profit/-loss for the period (+/-) -3,504 -787 345.2 % -4,801 -1,884 154.9 % -4,614 R&D spend on total revenue, % 129.4 % 31.6 % 77.2 % 41.4 % 48.0 % Equity ratio, % 80.5 % 77.9 % 80.5 % 77.9 % 84.9 % Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 11,467 3,947 190.5 % 11,467 3,947 190.5 % 6,289 Earnings per share (undiluted) -0.12 -0.04 174.1 % -0.16 -0.09 68.4 % -0.20 Earnings per share (diluted) -0.11 -0.04 198.5 % -0.14 -0.08 87.7 % -0.17 Shares at end of period (undiluted) 30,783,092 20,336,858 30,783,092 20,336,858 23,336,858 Shares at end of period (diluted) 33,821,751 24,908,133 33,821,751 24,908,133 27,515,133 Personnel at end of the period 57 43 32.6 % 57 43 32.6 % 47 Key events in April-June 2025 Bioretec's Board of Directors appointed MBA Sarah van Hellenberg Hubar-Fisher as the company's interim CEO as of 15 May 2025, following the resignation of CEO Alan Donze. Mirva Ekman, M.Sc. (Mechanical Engineering), was appointed Quality Director and member of the Management Team as of 22 April 2025. Bioretec arranged a rights issue in June 2025, where shareholders were offered up to 6,156,618 new shares for subscription primarily on the basis of shareholders' pre-emptive subscription right in the same proportion as they already hold shares in the company and secondarily by other shareholders or by other persons. The objective of the rights issue was to strengthen Bioretec's capital structure and to ensure its ability to implement its RemeOs commercialisation strategy. The rights issue was oversubscribed and Bioretec received gross proceeds of approximately EUR 9.2 million from the rights issue. As a result of the rights issue, the total number of shares in Bioretec increased by 6,156,618 from 24,626,474 to 30,783,092. Sarah van Hellenberg Hubar-Fisher, Interim CEO of Bioretec Ltd: The second quarter included the close of our successful funding round of EUR 9 million, highlighting investors' confidence in our innovative product offering, market potential, and strategic direction. This funding round supports the needed investment in leadership resourcing for marketing and sales, global capacity building in operations, and continued R&D investment to support our robust product pipeline. Commercial traction continued across our portfolio. Activa sales developed as expected, with growth particularly in China and Asia, while we built momentum for RemeOs globally. Notably, the first surgeries with the RemeOs Trauma Screw were now also performed in Europe, signaling early adoption and setting the stage for increased global utilization in the second half of the year. Our robust product pipeline advanced on multiple fronts, including ongoing work to advance 510(k) submissions for the RemeOs cannulated screw in the U.S., progress in our Breakthrough designated and patented hybrid composite for the RemeOs Spinal Interbody Cage program, ethical approval for first in human DrillPin clinical trials, and the commencement of post-marketing clinical follow-up for the CE-marked RemeOs line. In support of our broadened distribution network in the U.S. and the growing demand for efficiency and infection control in that market, we completed the launch of sterile, single-use instruments for our Activa cannulated screw, with the first instruments delivered and now available for use. Net sales in the first half of the year were stable compared to the year prior as planned, reflecting market development efforts for our breakthrough technology. Net sales in the second quarter was impacted by both a one-time credit invoice related to the conclusion of a U.S. pilot distribution agreement with Spartan Medical as well as a shift in distribution partners and additional direct distribution needs. Furthermore, the comparison period included a high initial delivery to a new distributor and in general, our sales to stocking distributors are lumpy and may cause quarterly variance in net sales. We continue to focus on building market presence and to prepare for the expected acceleration of sales through the remainder of the year. Sales margin reflects our commitment to prepare for commercial and operational growth namely in the U.S. market. The margin was impacted by an increase in materials and services costs, such as instrumentation and logistics costs, related to our commercial strategy to shift from using solely stocking distributors to including also direct distribution partners in the U.S.. Furthermore, the first two quarters of the year resulted in high volume demand as a percentage of revenue coming from China, with slightly lower margins. Sales margin during the market development and scale-up phases is planned to improve as our sales increase and direct distribution channel partners are well established. The first half of the year also marked a period of transition in the organization from a leadership perspective. It has been an honor for me to step in as interim CEO of Bioretec in mid-May, and I am proud of the oversubscribed funding round we completed in June. I want to thank our shareholders for their strong participation and continued confidence in our journey ahead. As we continue to focus on scale and strategy refinement, I remain confident that Bioretec is well-positioned to deliver continued growth and long-term value to shareholders and patients alike. Financial reporting in 2025 In 2025, Bioretec will publish the following financial reports: business review for January-September 2025 on Thursday 13 November 2025 The financial reports will be available online at Bioretec Ltd's website at https://investors.bioretec.com/en/reports_and_presentations. Tampere, 14 August 2025 Board of Directors Bioretec Ltd For additional information about the report: Sarah van Hellenberg Hubar-Fisher Johanna Salko Interim CEO CFO +31 6 1544 8736 +358 40 754 8172 Certified adviser Nordic Certified Adviser +46 70 551 67 29 Information about Bioretec Bioretec is a globally operating Finnish medical device pioneer at the forefront of redefining the future of orthopedics with breakthrough absorbable implant technologies that provide sustainable and natural bone healing. Bioretec's Activa and magnesium-based RemeOs platforms combine high strength with complete biodegradability, eliminating costly removal surgeries and enabling faster, safer recovery. The company's products are trusted by surgeons in approximately 40 countries worldwide. With the first RemeOs U.S. market authorization received in 2023, CE mark approval in 2025, and a robust innovation pipeline, Bioretec is positioned to disrupt the USD 10+ billion orthopedic trauma and spine market by delivering value-driven solutions that meet the needs of patients, surgeons, and healthcare systems globally. Better healing - Better life. www.bioretec.com Appendix Bioretec Ltd's half year report 2025 (pdf) This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/bioretec/r/bioretec-ltd-s-half-year-report-2025--strong-support-for-future-growth-from-a-successful-rights-issu,c4217829 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/20509/4217829/3608884.pdf Bioretec Half year report 2025 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bioretec-ltds-half-year-report-2025-strong-support-for-future-growth-from-a-successful-rights-issue-302529831.html PARIS, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting and HRIS solutions, is proud to announce its strategic acquisition of RKM Consulting, an Australian based company specialized in advising & implementing HRIS systems, with a strong focus on SAP SuccessFactors. With a presence in 28 countries and a team of over 2,500 professionals, HR Path is a trusted partner for businesses navigating the complexities of Human Resources. Specializing in advisory, implementation, and operational services, HR Path delivers cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance efficiency and foster growth. Since its founding in 2001, the company has remained steadfast in its mission to transform HR practices globally. Founded in 2000, RKM Consulting has built a strong reputation for delivering customer-focused HR Technology solutions. RKM was formed with the focus on partnering with the HR customer community to ensure that their HR Technology solutions are delivered successfully. RKM Consulting's business of human resources technology services, specializes in collaborating with clients to deliver human resources information systems ("HRIS") solutions and supporting those HRIS solutions in the selection, implementation delivery, and the business-as-usual user environment of its customers. This acquisition represents a significant milestone for HR Path, solidifying its position as a leader in the HR industry and expanding its presence in the Australian/New Zealand market. RKM Consulting's specialized focus on HRIS technology, in particular SAP SuccessFactors, reinforces HR Path's already well-established position in the SAP HCM market and further supports its commitment to driving organizational growth and excellence through strategic HR solutions. HR Path has been active in Australia since 2019 through the acquisition of DDG, and the opening of our Australian office in 2024 marked a renewed commitment to the region. RKM Consulting's customer centric focus on HRIS technology, perfectly complements HR Path's vision of driving organizational growth and excellence through strategic HR solutions. "We're thrilled to welcome RKM Consulting to the HR Path family. This acquisition is a significant milestone for our growth journey in Australia and New Zealand," said Suraj K. K., Managing Director of HR Path ANZ. "We are excited about this new chapter!" said Rob Makinson, Managing Director at RKM Consulting. "This step opens exciting opportunities for our team, clients and provides a platform for our continued growth and success. We will maintain our commitment to delivering exceptional customer service within the Australian HR Business Community while exploring new possibilities within HR Path." Contact: Fabienne LATOUR - Fabienne.latour@hr-path.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749056/RKM_Logo.jpg PDF - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2749030/HR_Path.pdf View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hr-path-strengthens-global-presence-with-strategic-acquisition-of-rkm-consulting-in-australia-302527994.html Integrated into Cortellis Regulatory Intelligence, new AI capability helps regulatory teams streamline access to critical intelligence and understand requirements with ease LONDON, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Clarivate Plc (NYSE:CLVT), a leading global provider of transformative intelligence, today announced the beta launch of its AI-powered Regulatory Assistant within Cortellis Regulatory Intelligence. This new capability is designed to help regulatory professionals navigate complex and evolving global requirements with greater ease, speed and confidence. Informed by customer input and tested with industry partners, the beta version of the Regulatory Assistant is built to meet the real-world needs of regulatory professionals across biopharma, medtech and research organizations. The Regulatory Assistant will be launched to all Cortellis Regulatory Intelligence users in September with additional capabilities designed to further enhance usability, personalization and decision support. Features within the Beta version of Cortellis Regulatory Intelligence AI Assistant include: Conversational AI with referenced answers: Users can ask regulatory questions naturally and get precise, cited responses, saving hours of manual work. The AI-powered Assistant, guided by domain expertise, understands regulatory nuances to provide customers with accurate answers. Users can ask regulatory questions naturally and get precise, cited responses, saving hours of manual work. The AI-powered Assistant, guided by domain expertise, understands regulatory nuances to provide customers with accurate answers. Your conversations, always within reach: Users can pick up right where they left off with chat history, resulting in more relevant, personalized responses. Users can pick up right where they left off with chat history, resulting in more relevant, personalized responses. Multilingual by design: Search and interact in preferred languages for a seamless, tailored experience. Yuval Kiselstein, VP, R&D, Life Sciences & Healthcare at Clarivate, said: "Today's regulatory environment is increasingly complex and fast-changing. The beta launch of the Regulatory Assistant is a key milestone in our mission to empower regulatory teams with intuitive, AI-driven tools that enhance productivity and support confident, compliant decision-making. By working closely with our Collaborative Partners, we are building a solution that reflects real-world workflows and priorities." Janeen Skutnik-Wilkinson, Director, Regulatory Intelligence & External Engagement, Moderna, said: "We are so pleased to be a part of the beta testing for the new AI Regulatory assistant. This tool will save us significant time and resources compared to searching manually, and we are already seeing how this will speed up internal enquiries and intelligence work. We have been impressed with how the team is actively engaging clients in the development process by seeking out and acting upon our feedback to continually improve the product. They are dedicated to building a useful tool that meets our needs while ensuring that it is also accurate and user-friendly." With market-leading intelligence solutions, transformative data technologies and trusted AI, Clarivate equips customers with the insight and foresight they need across every stage of the product lifecycle, from early discovery through commercialization and beyond. In line with this commitment, the new AI-powered Regulatory Assistant brings the Clarivate mission to life by helping customers navigate complexity, accelerate decision-making and shape the future of healthcare. As regulatory professionals face mounting pressure to keep pace with global changes, interpret complex requirements, and ensure compliance, the Regulatory Assistant streamlines access to trusted intelligence, enabling faster, more confident decisions. Built on the same proven Clarivate AI platform that powers Clarivate solutions, including Web of Science, and trusted by hundreds of organizations, it combines powerful technology with 30+ years of regulatory expertise relied on by top pharma and global agencies. To learn more about the Cortellis Regulatory Intelligence AI-powered Regulatory Assistant, visit here. About Clarivate Clarivate is a leading global provider of transformative intelligence. We offer enriched data, insights & analytics, workflow solutions and expert services in the areas of Academia & Government, Intellectual Property and Life Sciences & Healthcare. For more information, please visit clarivate.com Media Contact: Catherine Daniel Director, External Communications, Life Sciences & Healthcare Clarivate newsroom@clarivate.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1159266/Clarivate_Logo_v1.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/clarivate-launches-ai-powered-regulatory-assistant-within-cortellis-suite-to-boost-productivity-and-ease-regulatory-burden-302529135.html SINGAPORE, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SHEIN, a global online fashion and lifestyle retailer, showcased over 60 unique sewing and garment production tools at the second edition of its Tools Day event, demonstrating how targeted innovations are helping third-party suppliers overcome technical barriers, reduce the time spent at various stages of production, and improve the quality and consistency of the garments produced. Held at SHEIN's Centre for Innovation in Garment Manufacturing (CIGM), suppliers were able to view and interact with the various technical tools and intelligent equipment developed by the CIGM's in-house team to address specific pain points in the manufacturing of fashion apparel. Through both on-site demonstrations and a livestreamed virtual tour, the event provided a comprehensive view of SHEIN's growing ecosystem of innovation, with dedicated zones showcasing some of the more popular tools, newly developed tools, as well as more specialised equipment such as sewing machine attachments to help with shirring and stitching of garments. Innovative Tools for Delicate Materials: Automating Embellished Fabric Sewing Sewing sequinned, beaded and rhinestone embellished fabrics, common materials used in evening and formal wear, has long been one of the apparel industry's most difficult production challenges. Many small and medium-sized clothing manufacturers have avoided producing garments like wedding dresses or evening gowns which use these types of materials and embellishments, due to the complex and labour-intensive processes required to handle these speciality materials and details. Beads positioned along seam lines often cause sewing needles to get stuck or break. To work around this problem, workers often resorted to crushing beads manually with tools like hammers or pliers. However, this approach slows down the pace of production, leads to inconsistent results, and carries a high risk of damaging the fabric. To address this, SHEIN's CIGM team developed two complementary tools: The Beaded Embroidery Seam Presser Foot , which gently moves beads aside allowing the needle to move seamlessly between the beads, and , which gently moves beads aside allowing the needle to move seamlessly between the beads, and The Bead Breaking Attachment, which combines a component that breaks the beads and a mechanism that blows away the crushed bead fragments, automating bead removal along seam lines. When used together, these tools have helped to preserve intricate designs, reduce fabric damage, and dramatically lower the level of manual skill required to construct clothes made using these types of embellished fabrics. Since these two tools were made available to suppliers in 2024, over 900 units have been deployed across supplier factories within SHEIN's supply chain. Co-developing Solutions to Drive Real-world Results This year's "Tools Day" event also featured seven newly developed tools launched in 2025. These innovations target the often overlooked but technically complex work of applying lace and webbing embellishments to cuffs, necklines, and hemlines, and other areas. Tools such as the Adjustable Flatbed Webbing Puller, the Four-Thread Overlock Lace Tape Presser Foot, and the Flatbed Pearl & Diamond Tape Puller automate alignment and feeding, helping to improve garment finishing, while simplifying previously labour-intensive processes. These achievements are the result of SHEIN's approach which ensures that new tools are co-developed with suppliers based on the pain-points they have encountered, and validated in real-world factory settings before being made available to third-party suppliers across SHEIN's broader supply chain network. "In the past, when we encountered styles with complex processes, we were often at a loss because there were no suitable solutions available on the market," said Wang Feng, a supplier who has worked in the apparel industry for over 20 years and joined SHEIN's as an evening gown supplier four years ago. "Now, whenever we face a technical issue, SHEIN's professional team responds immediately. They tailor tools for us, provide step-by-step instructional videos, and even send engineers to our factory to ensure the problem is truly solved." To date, SHEIN has developed over 170 individual tools, providing nearly 6,000 units of these tools to suppliers since the launch of the CIGM in 2023. These tools, which are made available to suppliers for a fee, help empower them to meet the evolving production demands of the industry with greater agility, precision, and quality. The use of these tools is estimated to have helped third-party suppliers reduce the overall time required for manual labour by up to 80% at the stages of production where the tools are used. Empowering Suppliers Through Capability-Building In 2024, SHEIN's CIGM continued to support supplier capability-building through a range of training and advisory services. The centre delivered 69 vocational training sessions to over 1,200 participants across more than 1,000 suppliers, covering key topics such as garment production technologies, business operations, and organisational processes. It also ran 97 technical certification courses, enabling more than 1,750 participants to gain certifications in areas such as quality inspection and assurance, as well as national vocational skill level certifications. Beyond training, the CIGM works directly with suppliers by providing advice on strategic factory site selection, layout planning, and facility design to help improve operational efficiency. Investing in collaboration to drive industry-wide transformation SHEIN is also deepening its investment in industry collaboration to drive the next wave of manufacturing transformation. In the first half of 2025, SHEIN entered into strategic partnerships with Donghua University and Transfar Chemicals, targeting key areas for textile innovation and technology. Together with Donghua University, SHEIN is co-developing a recycled polyester solution capable of accepting a wider range of materials, including both pre- and post-consumer polyester feedstock, and that results in fibres that can be recycled repeatedly without compromising key material properties. Meanwhile, a joint laboratory established with Transfar Chemicals is focused on advancing new dyeing and finishing processes and developing new functional fabrics. These initiative aims to position SHEIN as a global leader in textile technology innovation. By embedding innovation into every layer of its digitally enabled, demand-driven supply chain, SHEIN is not only improving supplier capabilities and product quality but also shaping the future of efficient and responsive fashion manufacturing. About SHEIN SHEIN is a global online fashion and lifestyle retailer, offering SHEIN branded apparel and products from a global network of vendors, all at affordable prices. SHEIN remains committed to making the beauty of fashion accessible to all, promoting its industry-leading, on-demand production methodology, for a smarter, future-ready industry. To learn more about SHEIN, visit www.sheingroup.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750417/SHEIN_s_Tools_Day_event_demonstrates_targeted_innovations_helping_third_party_suppliers.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750418/The_Beaded_Embroidery_Seam_Presser_Foot_a_tool_developed_SHEIN_s.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2266792/image_5026813_4105828_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sheins-second-tools-day-event-highlights-over-60-innovations-developed-to-drive-supplier-manufacturing-improvements-302529838.html KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. ("Futuromic" or the "Company"), a leading photography, imaging and visual products distributor in Malaysia, is pleased to announce its appointment as the sole distributor for Kodak PIXPRO Digital Cameras in Malaysia, effective 1 August 2025. Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. This exclusive appointment underscores Futuromic's continued commitment to represent reputable and high-quality imaging brands in the local market . With Kodak's long-standing legacy in imaging innovation and the growing demand for versatile digital camera solutions, the collaboration is poised to offer Malaysian consumers and retailers a compelling range of imaging products through a trusted distribution network. "We are honoured to be entrusted with the sole distribution of Kodak PIXPRO in Malaysia," said Dato' Billy Lai, Business Development Director of Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. "This partnership reflects our shared vision with Kodak in making high-performance, accessible imaging technology available to a broader audience. We look forward to working closely with our dealer network to deliver these innovative solutions to the market." Preparations are currently underway for the official rollout of the Kodak PIXPRO range in Malaysia. Futuromic is working closely with channel partners to provide comprehensive support, which includes detailed product information, dealer pricing and purchase terms, marketing materials, and structured training programmes. After-sales support will also be made readily available to ensure a seamless experience for both dealers and end users. Retailers and partners who wish to place advance orders or require further information may contact their respective Futuromic sales representative or reach out directly via email at b2b@futuromic.com or phone at +603-6156 6633 . Futuromic looks forward to a successful launch of Kodak PIXPRO in Malaysia and to strengthening its partnerships across the imaging and consumer electronics ecosystem. Futuromic is Malaysia's only distributor for renowned global brands including DNP, Eureka, GR, Nikon, Pentax, Tamron, SanDisk, Western Digital, and Kodak PIXPRO, and master distributor for FujiFilm imaging products. ### ABOUT FUTUROMIC PHOTO AV SDN. BHD. Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. ("Futuromic") is a leading distributor of photography, imaging, and audio-visual products in Malaysia, with over three decades of industry experience. Established in 1994, Futuromic has built a robust nationwide presence through an extensive network of authorised dealers, online marketplaces, and its own B2B platform. Futuromic operates across two core distribution segments, Photo Imaging, and IT to meet the evolving needs of professionals, content creators, and technology users alike. Futuromic is Malaysia's only distributor for renowned global brands including DNP, Eureka, GR, Nikon, Pentax, Tamron, SanDisk, Western Digital, and Kodak PIXPRO, and master distributor for FujiFilm imaging products. Guided by its tagline "Create Connect Inspire.", Futuromic offers comprehensive product solutions, after-sales support, and community engagement initiatives such as its photography platform, GIVING FRAMES. The company is also registered with the Ministry of Finance Malaysia to provide engineering services and media-related solutions in the imaging sector. For more information, visit www.futuromic.com. Issued By: Swan Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. on behalf of Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. For more information, please contact: Jazzmin Wan Email: j.wan@swanconsultancy.biz Chris Ser Email: c.ser@swanconsultancy.biz Asyraf Hakimi Email: a.hakimi@swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/consumer-and-retail-products/futuromic-secures-sole-distribution-rights-for-kodak-pixpro-digital-ca-1061012 AMSTERDAM, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On August 9, global lifestyle brand MINISO celebrated the grand opening of its first flagship store in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. With its refreshed brand image and retail environment, the new store marks both a major step in MINISO's expanding presence in the Netherlands and the brand's expansion across Europe as it further strengthens its presence in the market. Located on Nieuwendijk Street, one of Amsterdam's oldest and busiest pedestrian shopping streets and just steps from Dam Square and Amsterdam Central Station. MINISO's three-story, around 1,000-square-meter flagship features a number of upgraded design elements. A large-scale Stitch-themed figure makes a striking statement at the storefront. Multiple immersive IP-themed zones, including Sanrio, Disney, Harry Potter, BT21, Care Bear, Minecraft and the newly launched One Piece collection, occupy over 90% of the store space, creating a compelling and immersive retail destination for local consumers. With approximately 4,000 SKUs spanning plush toys, blind boxes, mini collectibles, and lifestyle accessories, the flagship is tailored for trend-savvy shoppers looking for the latest in creative, fun, and highly engaging products. Among these is a curated selection of MINISO's most popular collectible toy lines, including hit vinyl plush toys that have taken Gen Z and young adult shoppers by storm around the world with their fun emotional appeal and cultural relevance. To celebrate the opening of the new flagship, MINISO launched a colorful series of immersive activities in the iconic capital city. Highlights included a lively dance performance and a parade at Dam Square, PENPEN engaging with customers and a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the flagship store's main entrance. These events generated a joyful buzz, positioning the store as a must-visit new landmark in the city. As part of the interactive experience, MINISO also invited shoppers to a Fluffy Carnival where they could receive stamps in their exclusive MINISO Plush Icon Passport and redeem for plush icon mini suitcases in return for purchasing vinyl plush products. The new Amsterdam flagship store adds to MINISO's growing retail footprint across the Netherlands, including locations in key cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Almere, as the brand continues its steady expansion across the market. With current trends like collectible toys and anime culture continuing to rise in popularity among younger consumers, MINISO is well-positioned to respond quickly to market demands by bringing more stylish, fun, and functional products to the Dutch market. The launch of this flagship store marks a fresh upgrade for MINISO as gets set to introduce more high quality products and revamped store concepts to the Netherlands and other markets across Europe. About MINISO MINISO Group is a global lifestyle brand offering a variety of design-led lifestyle products. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO's wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand "MINISO" as a globally recognized retail brand and established a massive store network worldwide. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750366/MINISO_Opens_New_Amsterdam_Flagship.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750367/Multiple_immersive_IP_themed_zones.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750368/The_Three_Story_Store_Offers_around_4000_different_products.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750369/MINISO_Amsterdam_Store_Opening_Ceremony.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/miniso-strengthens-european-expansion-and-retail-innovation-with-new-amsterdam-flagship-302529942.html TRIPOLI, Libya, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Intalio, the global leader in Intelligent Information Management, is proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Al Rayan Holding, a prominent company at the forefront of Libya's business landscape. This collaboration marks a significant step toward innovation and growth in the region, aimed at powering the digital transformation of Libyan enterprises. Intalio's state-of-the-art solutions and Al Rayan Holding's robust industry presence will empower organizations across Libya to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen governance, and accelerate automation. What Has Been Said "We are excited to collaborate with Al Rayan Holding and bring world-class digital transformation tools to Libyan businesses. This partnership symbolizes our commitment to extending intelligent, AI-driven solutions to the Libyan market," said Ramez Al Kara, SVP, Software Research and Development at Intalio. "This strategic collaboration underscores our shared vision of geographical and technological expansion, and empowers organizations with the tools they need to thrive in today's digital era. Together, we will unlock new levels of efficiency, innovation, and agility across the Libyan enterprise sector." Key Areas of Collaboration As part of this strategic partnership, Al Rayan Holding will become an authorized reseller of Intalio's cutting-edge, AI-powered solutions, empowering Libyan businesses to embrace modern, secure, and future-ready content management. The comprehensive offerings include: Content Services : Enhancing document management, collaboration, and information governance across Libyan businesses. : Enhancing document management, collaboration, and information governance across Libyan businesses. Process Automation : Streamlining workflows, reducing manual effort, and increasing operational efficiency. : Streamlining workflows, reducing manual effort, and increasing operational efficiency. Data Governance: Ensuring data security, regulatory compliance, and high-quality data management. Impact for the Region This partnership marks a milestone for both organizations: by combining Intalio's innovative technology with Al Rayan Holding's deep local insight and market presence, the two companies are poised to deliver transformative value across Libya's enterprise sector, enabling businesses to stay competitive, adaptive, and digitally advanced. About Intalio Intalio is a global leader in Intelligent Information Management, recognized in the Gartner Magic Quadrant as a visionary for its innovation and industry leadership. Offering solutions in Enterprise Content Management, Workflow Automation, Data Governance, and Artificial Intelligence, Intalio empowers organizations to optimize operations, enhance collaboration, and make data-driven decisions. Our technology ensures success in a constantly evolving digital world, enabling our clients to stay ahead of the curve with confidence. About Al Rayan Holding Al Rayan Holding is a leading, diversified Libyan company active across multiple sectors, including finance, manufacturing, services, and software. Known for its strategic vision and commitment to national development, Al Rayan Holding continues to drive innovation and excellence to foster sustainable growth in Libya's business ecosystem. Visit Intalio's website to learn more about the products and solutions: https://www.intalio.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2600738/5122135/Intalio_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/intalio-and-al-rayan-holding-form-strategic-partnership-to-drive-digital-transformation-in-libya-302527644.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Victory Square Technologies Inc. (CSE:VST) (OTC Pink: VSQTF) ("Victory Square" or the "Company") proudly announces that Alex Chieng, CEO of Pawsible Ventures and Victory Square portfolio company, has been named one of the winners of the world's largest AI hackathon, hosted by Bolt.New - a global platform at the forefront of AI innovation. More than 100,000 builders from over 150 countries competed in the Bolt Hackathon, submitting AI-powered products across verticals like health, wellness, creator tools, and finance. Backed by leading voices from OpenAI, Hugging Face, Notion, Stripe, GitHub, Stability AI, Replit, Founders Inc., and a16z, the competition is one of the most competitive and future-facing showcases of real-world AI talent. Loafie: A Hug in Digital Form Chieng's winning project, Loafie, was co-founded with Hyejee Bae and designed as a gentle emotional support app that feels like a warm hug in digital form. Created for founders, creatives, and high-performers navigating burnout, stress, and self-doubt, Loafie delivers soft, AI-powered encouragement to help users reset and recharge. Built and shipped end-to-end in under two weeks, the app is already live on the App Store - and will soon appear on digital billboards in Times Square alongside other global winners. "Loafie was a creative reset - something kind, calming, and personal I could build quickly," said Chieng. "After years in fast-paced pet health tech, I wanted to test how intentionally I could go from idea to reality. That same speed and empathy are now at the heart of what we're building with Pawsible Ventures." From Vetsie to Victory Prior to launching Pawsible, Chieng served as founder and CEO of Vetsie, one of North America's leading platforms in digital veterinary care. Over five years, he developed deep partnerships with Mars Petcare, Merck Animal Health, and Antech Diagnostics, giving him a front-row seat to the evolving needs of pet owners, veterinary professionals, and the $300+ billion global pet industry. Now, with Pawsible Ventures - launched in partnership with Victory Square - Chieng is channeling his experience into a launchpad for entrepreneurs building the future of pet wellness, AI, and health-tech. The venture equips founders with capital, product mentorship, rapid prototyping support, and deep operational expertise to help them move fast and build boldly. "Alex is the kind of founder who doesn't just see the future - he builds it, fast," said Shafin Diamond Tejani, CEO of Victory Square Technologies. "Winning the Bolt hackathon proves what we already knew: that Alex is world-class. And with Pawsible Ventures, we're backing his mission to find and empower the next generation of visionary builders in pet health and beyond." About Bolt Bolt is a global platform for AI builders - home to the world's largest AI hackathon and a vibrant ecosystem of developers, designers, and product creators. Backed by top-tier investors including GV (Google Ventures), Emergence Capital, Madrona, and Mantis VC (The Chainsmokers), Bolt's mission is to identify and elevate the most promising new AI products in the world. The Bolt Awards recognize the top projects across various categories, chosen from tens of thousands of submissions. Winners receive cash prizes, global exposure, and startup support - and are celebrated with digital features in Times Square and across the AI community. Learn more: https://bolt.new/awards About Pawsible Ventures Pawsible Ventures is a Victory Square-backed company investing in the future of pet wellness. Led by Alex Chieng, Pawsible focuses on launching and scaling startups that improve the lives of pets and their humans through AI, diagnostics, mental health, behavior tools, and platform technology. With demand for smarter, more accessible pet care at an all-time high, Pawsible is uniquely positioned to lead innovation in the $300B+ global pet market - backed by real founder experience, tech velocity, and the full support of Victory Square's venture studio model. Learn more: http://www.pawsible.vc/ On behalf of the Board of Directors, "Shafin Diamond Tejani" Chairman & CEO, Victory Square Technologies Inc. www.victorysquare.com ABOUT VICTORY SQUARE TECHNOLOGIES INC. Victory Square is a Venture Builder that provides investors a liquid way to invest in early-stage technology companies without buying a venture fund that requires accredited investor status or multi-year commitments. A diverse portfolio of 25+ innovative companies from around the world (founders come from: Ireland, Sri Lanka, Bulgaria, Australia, India, Brazil, the Middle East and North America) Sectors include: Digital Health, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Blockchain/Web3, Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR/AR), Gaming, Climate Tech Owner-operated (approx. 15% Management Ownership) Business Model: The Victory Square business model is to buy, build and invest in early stage tech companies. We spend upwards of 48 months with those companies until they're ready to spin-off or stand on their own. There are a couple of unique elements to our business model We have unparalleled access to startups through our internal incubator and International network with over 250+ founders, investors, tech accelerators and venture capital firms from more than 60 countries. Second, our management team and advisors are actively involved in our investments from incubation through monetization, providing them with financial, operational, and strategic support to scale globally. We drive value by monetizing investments and reinvesting the gains in new innovations. The strategy was to build a self-sustaining business. VST is a publicly-traded company headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, and listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (VST), Frankfurt Exchange (6F6) and the OTC Pink (VSQTF). For more information, please visit www.victorysquare.com. Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is generally identifiable by use of the words "believes," "may," "plans," "will," "anticipates," "intends," "could," "estimates," "expects," "forecasts," "projects" and similar expressions, and the negative of such expressions. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this news release are forward looking statements. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, statements regarding the future plans and objectives of the Company, execution of business strategy, future performance and future growth, business prospects, synergies and opportunities of the Company and its related subsidiaries, and other factors beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made, including, but not limited to the Company being able to capitalize on the acquired assets, the ability of acquired assets to maintain its value as presently contemplated, the synergies of the acquired assets with the Company's operations, and such other assumptions presented in the Company's disclosure record. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking information herein is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement, and GameOn disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such forward-looking information or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as required by law. 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. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262455 SOURCE: Victory Square Technologies Inc. DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Smart Port Market is anticipated to grow from estimated USD 2.53 billion in 2025 to USD 7.95 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 25.8% during the forecast period. The Smart Port Market is constantly growing due to the increasing attention to improving port efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability, as well as the growing volumes of international trade and cargo flows. This development is also encouraged by the increased fears of port congestion, carbon emissions, and the efficient operations of logistics. Modernization of digital technologies has become vital, as global supply chains experience a bundle of pressure from a rise in e-commerce, changing trade behavior, and the need for real-time data transparency. The predicted maintenance, the optimal management of the traffic of the vessels, and the efficient control of the containers, with the help of smart port solutions, which include AI-powered cranes, IoT-enabled sensors, a digital twin platform, and a blockchain-based documentation system, reduce the turnaround time, decreasing the cost of operation and increasing safety. In the developed world, the effort to modernize the old port facility contributes to deploying smart technology, primarily in the developed world. The massive exercise in installing new port projects and government-sponsored digitalization campaigns catalyzes the demand in emerging markets. Moreover, the attention of international regulations to ensure the reduction of maritime emissions and the transition into the integrated, data-driven port ecosystem would also contribute to market growth. Browse in-depth TOC on 'Smart Port Market' 155 - Tables 79 - Figures 300 - Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=165784113 Seaports to record higher CAGR during forecast period. Seaports will be the fastest-growing segment within the Smart Port Market during the forecast period, owing to the primary importance of this segment in the international maritime business and its ability to encourage the massive side of digitalization. The cargo processed at seaports is far larger than that at inland ports, so automation, real-time tracking, predictive analysis, and energy-efficient operations are essential. Seaports such as Tuas Mega Port, Shanghai Yangshan, Busan, and Vizhinjam have engaged in massive investments in technologies such as cranes powered by artificial intelligence, autonomous carriers, digital twins, and an integrated port community system to enhance efficiency and minimize turnaround time in leading international seaports. Such intelligent upgrades not only increase the throughput but also fit within the framework of decarbonization and sustainability requirements. The smart infrastructure is implemented more quickly because seaports provide additional funding and foster public-private partnerships, given their strategic position in global trade. Asia Pacific to hold largest market share during forecast period. During the forecast period, Asia Pacific is expected to be the largest region for the Smart Port Market, driven by strong trade growth combined with extensive port infrastructure, governmental initiatives of digitalization, and being a subject of extensive investments in port modernization. Some of the busiest and most technologically advanced ports in the world can be found in this region, including Singapore, Shanghai, and Busan, which are already deploying smart technologies, including AI, IoT, and digital twin systems, to make their operations more efficient and decrease the turnaround time. Smart port developments in Asia are also boosted by China's Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to improve connectivity and infrastructure. Also, other nations, such as India, are keen on investing in digitizing ports, such as the Sagarmala Program and Port Community System 1x. The rising pressure to manage the increasing cargo quantities, minimize environmental impacts, and enhance the supply chain strength is compelling both the open and the closed parties in the locale to use smart solutions. Consequently, Asia Pacific is the most vibrant and fast-developing market in the international smart port industry. Key Market Players ABB, Siemens, Eaton, GE Vernova, and Schneider Electric are major players in the Smart Port Market. Their major strategies include acquisitions, product launches, agreements, partnerships, and expansions. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=165784113 IBM (US) IBM (US) is a global leader in AI, hybrid cloud, and digital transformation services, playing a crucial role in shaping next-generation smart port infrastructure. IBM Watson, IBM cloud, IBM Maximo application suite, and IBM blockchain offer scalable capabilities through its core technologies to perform real-time monitoring of ports, predictive maintenance, tracking assets, and digital documentation. IBM concentrates on making ports smarter, improving operations, providing a clearer picture of its supply chain, and decreasing congestion by linking IT and operational port technologies. IBM's smart port solutions will optimize decision-making throughout logistics networks based on AI-led insights, digital representations of things, and IoT-connected devices. Its solution in blockchain-based trade documentation systems has played a key role in the facilitation of speed in processing, cargo traceability, and customs compliance. IBM has partnered with significant maritime hubs such as the Port of Rotterdam and the Port of Valencia to spearhead full-scale digital transformation initiatives. These projects focus on deploying cloud infrastructures, advanced data platforms, and integrating interrelated ecosystems. The objective is to optimize port logistics and align them with strategic frameworks aimed at carbon reduction. This multifaceted approach enhances operational efficiency and supports sustainability goals in logistics management. With a presence in over 175 countries, IBM leverages its global consulting and cloud capabilities to drive port digitalization aligned with Industry 4.0 and sustainability goals. The company's emphasis on secure data infrastructure, open-source platforms, and modular architecture enables port authorities to transition from traditional models to fully digitized smart port ecosystems. IBM's competitive edge lies in its strong R&D pipeline, cross-industry expertise, and ability to co-develop end-to-end solutions with governments, logistics firms, and port operators worldwide. Accenture (Ireland) Accenture (Ireland) is a leading international professional services firm offering strategy, consulting, digital transformation, technology, and operations solutions, positioning the company as a major facilitator of smart port ecosystems. Accenture supports the modernization of ports and logistics hubs by providing new and up-to-date infrastructure models through its Industry X, Accenture Cloud First, and Supply Chain & Operations platforms based on AI, IoT, edge computing, cybersecurity, and digital twin services. Accenture facilitates end-to-end smart port transformation plans by assisting in building a digital roadmap, integrating technology, optimizing processes, and engaging stakeholders. The company has been involved in strategic port modernization programs in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. It has been engaged in partnerships on issues of ports' digitalization frameworks, blockchain-based trade mechanisms, and sustainable operations. Its collaboration with port authorities is usually directed at the improvement of the cargo visibility, the increase of the productivity of the berths, and the attainment of real-time operational intelligence with the help of advanced analytics. With a presence in over 120 countries and a workforce exceeding 740,000 employees, Accenture combines deep industry expertise with scalable tech delivery models. Its Smart Ports Center of Excellence brings together cross-functional teams to develop tailored, future-ready port solutions that address evolving challenges in global shipping, customs automation, energy efficiency, and cyber-resilience. The company's strength lies in integrating business strategy with next-gen technology deployment. It is a trusted partner for global port operators aiming to become digitally connected, agile, and sustainable. For more information, Inquire Now! Related Reports: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Market IoT Technology Market IoT in Smart Cities Market Smart Cities Market Get access to the latest updates on Smart Port Companies and Smart Ports Industry About MarketsandMarkets: MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/smart-port-market-worth-7-95-billion-by-2030--marketsandmarkets-302529817.html LONDON and ZURICH, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Titanbay, Europe's leading private markets infrastructure provider, has appointed Timo Paul as Head of Switzerland, reinforcing its commitment to growth across Europe with a focus on local relevance and client-centric delivery. Timo joins the firm's Wealth Solutions team, where he will support Titanbay's efforts in Switzerland, collaborating with private banks and wealth managers to enhance their private markets offering. Titanbay's platform addresses operational, regulatory, and technological bottlenecks, providing the infrastructure needed to make private markets access seamless and scalable. With more than two decades of experience across UBS and Natixis Investment Managers, Timo brings deep understanding of the Swiss financial ecosystem and strong relationships across institutional and wholesale channels. His appointment comes as Titanbay, headquartered in London, continues to scale its presence across the continent to meet rising demand for institutional-grade private markets infrastructure. Michael Gruener, Co-CEO of Titanbay, said: "We're excited to welcome Timo to the Titanbay team. His arrival marks another important step in our European expansion. Timo's insight into the Swiss market and his ability to translate client needs into real-world solutions will help us strengthen our partnerships and support the next phase of private markets growth across the region." Timo Paul, Head of Switzerland at Titanbay, added: "Private markets are a key focus for wealth managers in Switzerland, but many still face operational roadblocks. Titanbay is uniquely positioned to help institutions cut through that complexity. I'm thrilled to join the team and support our partners as they deliver better access and outcomes for their clients." Switzerland is a strategic priority for Titanbay as the company continues to grow across Europe. Titanbay's model combines global infrastructure with regional expertise, empowering local teams to deliver tailored solutions backed by technology, compliance, and operational excellence. About Titanbay Titanbay is Europe's leading private markets infrastructure provider, dedicated to making private markets simpler and more accessible. The company's integrated platform connects asset managers and distributors, providing the essential technology, operations, and regulatory framework required to effectively manage private market funds. Titanbay supports every stage of the investment lifecycle, including fund structuring, onboarding, capital flows, reporting, compliance, and third-party integrations. Whether raising capital, distributing funds, or expanding a private markets offering, Titanbay enables clients to reduce complexity, improve efficiency, and focus on serving their investors and growing their business. Media Enquiries Danielle Wilde marketing@titanbay.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ba970ce6-7cb4-4cd6-bba3-54fb627f6ec6 DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Commitbiz LLC, a leading corporate service provider (CSP) having their head office in Dubai, UAE has been recently awarded prestigious ISO certifications. The recognition comes from authorities like SCK Certifications Pvt. Ltd. and QCAS Certifications Inc. The firm which helps with business incorporation has been granted the ISO 9001 certification for Quality Management Systems and the ISO 20700 certification for its unwavering commitment to improve the effectiveness and transparency of consultancy engagements between clients and consultants. These certifications were granted after a rigorous evaluation of the company's systems and processes, ensuring they align with internationally recognized standards. With this accreditation, Commitbiz LLC joins a global league of organizations committed to maintaining stringent quality standards and fostering a culture of accountability. The ISO certifications reinforce the firm's vision to be a trusted partner in enabling businesses to grow and thrive in the UAE and the Middle East. It also reflects the CSP's dedication to maintaining the highest levels of service delivery across its business setup, consulting, compliance, and support operations. Speaking on the development, Manu Thomas V, the Managing Director of Commitbiz, stated, "Earning the ISO Certification is not just a milestone, it's a reflection of our team's unwavering commitment to excellence, consistency, and client trust. This achievement reinforces our dedication to delivering quality in everything we do." He reiterated that the firm will continue to provide robust, compliant, and efficient business support services. About Commitbiz LLC: Commitbiz, an award-winning Corporate Service Provider (CSP) specialises in offering services related to company formation, corporate tax and accounting, AML compliance, PRO services, regulatory compliance, among others. Established in 2007, it has been at the forefront of business setup in Dubai. With a client-first approach, the firm empowers entrepreneurs with streamlined, end-to-end solutions tailored to the dynamic Middle Eastern market. To simplify business registration across UAE and other Middle eastern countries they work closely with multiple government authorities. Since its inception, Commitbiz has accomplished many milestones. These include opening its first branch office in Abu Dhabi, expanding operations to Bahrain, and catering to 10,000+ happy clients across 150+ countries, among others. They have also been bestowed with numerous prestigious awards during the 18-year long journey. As a trusted name in the field of business incorporation, Commitbiz LLC can help realise entrepreneurial dreams. Media Contact Avinash Kr. Rai avinash.kr@businesssetup.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/commitbiz-dubai-office-awarded-iso-certifications-302530017.html Marti sets new targets for December 31, 2025 of 3.30 million riders and 450 thousand registered drivers Marti Technologies, Inc. ("Marti" or the "Company") (NYSE American: MRT), Turkiye's leading mobility super app, announced today that as of August 12, 2025, Marti's ride-hailing service has reached 2.52 million riders and 357 thousand registered drivers, exceeding the September 30, 2025 targets of 2.50 million riders and 350 thousand registered drivers a month and a half earlier than planned. Marti's number of ride-hailing riders grew 17% from June 3, 2025 to August 12, 2025. The number of registered drivers grew 14% during the same time period. The fast growth in both the rider and driver sides of Marti's ride-hailing marketplace demonstrates large demand for the service across Turkiye. The service intends to provide readily available, safe, and affordable rides for riders, while providing economic opportunities for drivers across the income spectrum. Encouraged by the growth in the rider and driver bases of its ride-hailing business, Marti has set targets for 3.30 million riders and 450 thousand registered drivers by December 31, 2025. Of Marti's 357 thousand registered drivers, 266 thousand are in Turkiye's largest city, Istanbul. This is in contrast to 20 thousand taxis serving the city. With 13 times as many registered drivers as taxis serving the city of Istanbul, Marti is able to offer widespread availability across the city. Furthermore, Marti's drivers undergo formal background checks before acceptance onto the service, thereby contributing to rider safety. The average rating of Marti's ride-hailing drivers by riders is 4.8 out of 5 stars. The shares of Marti's riders and registered drivers outside of Istanbul have both grown significantly. This increase aligns with Marti's recently announced 2025 and 2026 Investment Plan, which includes ride-hailing launches in six cities-Bursa, Konya, Adana, Kocaeli, Mersin, and Kayseri-in addition to accelerated growth investments in cities including Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya. As a result, over the last twelve months, the proportion of Marti's riders based outside of Istanbul has grown from 13% to 24%, while the share of Marti's registered drivers based outside of Istanbul has grown from 18% to 26%. This increased geographic diversification underscores the nationwide demand for Marti's services and supports the Company's long-term growth trajectory beyond Istanbul. McKinsey Company, a consultancy group, estimates the taxi market size in Turkiye at $9 billion to $12 billion as of 2021. Further, under the "Disruptive Scenario 2030", ride-hailing is expected to increase the size of the taxi market by offering cheaper and more convenient rides. McKinsey Company estimates the potential size of the Turkish ride-hailing market in 2030 at $15 billion to $20 billion Expectations and targets are not necessarily indicative of future attainment. About Marti: Founded in 2018, Marti is Turkiye's leading mobility app, offering multiple transportation services to its riders. Marti operates a ride-hailing service that matches riders with car, motorcycle, and taxi drivers, and operates a large fleet of rental e-mopeds, e-bikes, and e-scooters. All of Marti's offerings are serviced by proprietary software systems and IoT infrastructure. For more information, visit www.marti.tech. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements made in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements related to the anticipated growth, including the number of riders and registered drivers of the ride-hailing business, the ride-hailing targets by December 31, 2025, and the expected future performance and market opportunities of Marti and the ride-hailing business. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including the risks discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F. Marti undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of future events, new information or otherwise, except as required by law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814714628/en/ Contacts: Investor Contact Marti Technologies, Inc. Turgut Yilmaz investor.relations@marti.tech SHANGHAI, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HOTELEX 2026 will be held from 30 March to 2 April, 2026, at the National Exhibition & Convention Center (Shanghai), covering 400,000 sqm across the full hospitality and foodservice supply chain-from catering equipment & supplies, tableware, fine food, refeigeration equipment, beverage, coffee and tea, baking equipment & raw materials, and the bar & drinks, to smart hotel solutions. According to the latest reports from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Euromonitor International, the global hospitality and foodservice industries are expected to maintain steady growth in 2025, reaching record market levels. Against this backdrop, the show will focus on "Connecting Global Resources, Uncovering Industry Insights," engaging industry peers from around the world to explore the sector's future. Euromonitor's Global Foodservice Outlook 2025 forecasts the global foodservice market to exceed USD 4.6 trillion in 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of approximately 6.2%. In the hospitality sector, global hotel revenues are expected to increase by over 5% compared to last year, driven by tourism recovery and the rebound in business travel (source: WTTC Global Economic Impact Report 2025). Key trends shaping the industry include sustainability, smart upgrades, and localized guest experiences. Restaurants are accelerating digital transformation, while hotels are placing greater emphasis on energy efficiency and eco-friendly design-factors that are reshaping the competitive landscape. With the hospitality and F&B industries undergoing pivotal transformation, HOTELEX 2026 remains a strategic and dynamic platform for companies aiming to expand operations, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth across the Asia-Pacific hospitality sector. We look forward to working alongside industry peers to capture emerging opportunities and shape the future together. Join us at HOTELEX 2026 and be part of the future of hospitality! Contact Us: Booth Inquiry: Jason Jin Tel: +86 21 3339 2197 Junyan.Jin@imsinoexpo.com Media & Visitor Consulting: Lizzy Chen Tel: +86 21 3339 2566 Lizzy.chen@imsinoexpo.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750560/1.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2025-global-hospitality--fb-trends---hotelex-puts-industry-insights-in-focus-302530046.html NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Gimme Credit's latest research shows that leading U.S. corporate issuers are holding firm against escalating tariffs and increasingly cautious consumer spending. Strong balance sheets, diversified operations, and product innovation are proving key to credit stability amid macro volatility. Tariffs and changing consumer demand have raised the stakes for corporate issuers in 2025. Gimme Credit's latest research shows that strategic diversification and disciplined capital management are proving decisive in maintaining credit stability. More from the company's Senior Bond Analysts, below: BorgWarner - Jay Cushing noted the company's "strong balance sheet and flexible product lineup across combustion, hybrid, and electric platforms" should help it absorb tariff pressures and modest volume declines "with minimal impact" to its credit profile. JPMorgan Chase - Mark Flanagan said the bank has "positive momentum into the second half" with diversification and robust capital "key support factors against any negative turn." Apple - Dave Novosel reported a 10% revenue gain in fiscal Q3-its fastest growth since early 2022-driven by double-digit gains in iPhone, Mac, and Services, plus a rebound in Greater China. Adani Ports & SEZ Ltd - Saurav Sen said We are not overly concerned [about trade disputes]: most shipments through ADSEZ ports are Europe- and Asia-bound, and crude oil cargo accounts for roughly 10% of volumes. The company should be able to absorb the fallout without materially denting its credit metrics. Gimme Credit's coverage underscores that disciplined capital allocation, innovation and geographic diversity remain powerful buffers for credit quality even as trade policy and consumer trends shift rapidly. Request A Free Trial Gimme Credit provides independent corporate bond research and data to aid investors and traders with critical and timely insights on an organization's investment potential. Since 1994, customers have relied on our decisive buy/sell recommendations to provide in-depth guidance when determining which fixed-income securities offer the most opportunity. Gimme Credit's clients include brokerage firms, corporations, financial advisors, investment managers and traders. Company research and news are regularly featured in such esteemed Media as Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, Barron's, FT and more. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2572317/Gimme_Credit__Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/gimme-credit-corporate-bonds-stay-strong-as-us-tariffs-and-consumer-caution-test-market-302529649.html DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Permanent Magnet Market by Type (NdFeB, SmCo, Ferrite, AlNiCo), Operating Temperature (Standard, High, Ultra-High), Manufacturing Process (Sintered, Bonded), End-use Industry, and Region - Global Forecast to 2030", permanent magnet market is projected to reach USD 88.51 billion by 2030, from USD 58.87 billion in 2025, with a CAGR of 8.5%. Browse in-depth TOC on "Permanent Magnet Market" 200 - Tables 180 - Figures 300 - Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=806 Permanent magnets are materials that generate a persistent magnetic field without needing an external source. Even after the removal of a magnetic force, these magnets can retain their magnetism for a long time. They are made from hard ferromagnetic materials that attract or repel certain metals or other magnets. The demand for high-performance magnets is expected to grow rapidly, driven by increasing needs from the environmental and energy sectors for grid storage applications. The global push for the adoption of EVs is another major factor contributing to the rising demand for permanent magnets. Neodymium Iron Boron accounted for the largest market share, in terms of value, in 2024. The permanent magnet market, by type, has been segmented into Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB), Ferrite, Samarium Cobalt (SmCo), Aluminum Nickel Cobalt (AlNiCo), and others. In 2024, Neodymium Iron Boron magnets dominated the market in terms of value, contributing the highest market share. These rare earth magnets offer high magnetic strength, excellent thermal conductivity, a maximum energy product, and resistance to moisture and corrosion. They are also cost-effective, making them suitable for various end-use industries. To address the growing demand for Neodymium Iron Boron magnets in electric motors and hybrid vehicles, Trafalgar Group plans to establish India's first rare earth metals, alloy, and magnet plant. The goal is to supply 20% of the domestic demand for sintered Neodymium Iron Boron magnets by 2027. In terms of value, bonded is expected to be the fastest-growing segment during the forecasted period. The permanent magnet market, by manufacturing process, has been segmented into sintered and bonded. The bonded manufacturing process is expected to be the fastest-growing segment in the permanent magnet market during the forecast period. Bonded magnets provide lightweight structures, design flexibility, and compatibility with high-precision components, making them ideal for compact motors and sensors, especially as industries shift toward miniaturization and automation. The process enables the creation of complex shapes and intricate designs through methods like injection molding and compression bonding, which are both cost-effective and scalable, supporting the increasing demand for customized magnet solutions in the automotive, consumer electronics, and environmental & energy industries. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=806 Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share, in terms of both value and volume, in 2024. In 2024, Asia Pacific held the largest market share in terms of both value and volume. Due to rising urban populations and industrialization, consumer spending in this region is fueling growth in the consumer electronics, general industrial, automotive, medical technology, environment & energy, and aerospace & defense industries. Additionally, an increasing focus on recyclability and environmentally friendly materials is boosting the use of permanent magnets across various industries. Major players in the permanent magnet market are concentrating on the Asia Pacific region because of its strong market potential. The Indian government is actively encouraging private sector involvement in rare earth magnet production to reduce reliance on China and strengthen domestic supply chains. Many manufacturers are relocating their production bases to this region due to the availability of low-cost manufacturing facilities. For example, JL Mag Rare-Earth, a Chinese manufacturer, plans to invest CNY 1 billion (USD 143.6 million) in building a new factory for high-performance rare earth permanent magnetic materials to meet the rising demand from emerging sectors like humanoid robotics and new energy vehicles. Request Customization: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=806 Key Players: Prominent companies in the permanent magnet market include are Proterial, Ltd. (Japan), Arnold Magnetic Technologies (US), TDK Corporation (Japan), Yantai Dongxing Magnetic Materials Inc. (China), Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. (Japan), Electron Energy Corporation (US), Adams Magnetic Products, LLC (US), Bunting Magnetics Co. (US), Tengam Engineering, Inc. (US), Ningbo Yunsheng Co., Ltd. (China), Chengdu Galaxy Magnets Co., Ltd. (China), Goudsmit Magnetics (Netherlands), Eclipse Magnetics (UK), Dexter Magnetic Technologies (US), and Earth Panda Advance Magnetic Material Co., Ltd. (China). Get access to the latest updates on Permanent Magnet Companies and Permanent Magnet Market Size Browse Adjacent Market: Mining, Minerals and Metals Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: Soft Magnetic Materials Market - Global Forecast to 2026 Metalworking Fluids Market - Global Forecast to 2030 Rare Earth Metals Market - Global Forecast to 2030 Metal Organic Framework Market - Global Forecast to 2030 Mining & Metal Filtration Market - Global Forecast to 2028 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion in new revenue streams that are replacing existing ones within this decade. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we collaborate with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies to keep them future-ready. Our insights and strategies are powered by industry experts, cutting-edge AI, and our Market Intelligence Cloud, KnowledgeStore, which integrates research and provides ecosystem-wide visibility into revenue shifts. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook . Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/permanent-magnet-market-worth-88-51-billion-by-2030---exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302529885.html TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX:JAG)(OTCQX:JAGGF) today filed its second quarter results, the highlights of which are included in this news release. The interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 and accompanying management's discussion and analysis can be accessed by visiting the Company's website at https://jaguarmining.com or its profile page on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca . All figures are in US Dollars, unless otherwise expressed. Second Quarter 2025 Highlights All financial and operating results for the second quarter reflect contributions solely from the Company's Pilar mine, its only operating mine during the period. This compares to the second quarter of 2024, when the Company had two operating mines: Pilar and Turmalina. The Turmalina mine remains temporarily suspended following a slump of material at the dry-stack facility that occurred at the MTL complex on December 7, 2024. Rehabilitation work to ensure the stability of the Satinoco pile is well underway, and the Company currently expects the resumption of operations at Turmalina in the first quarter of 2026. Gold production for the quarter totalled 10,973 ounces, entirely from the Pilar mine, compared to 16,829 ounces from both Pilar and Turmalina in the second quarter of 2024. The year-over-year variance reflects a 14% increase in head grade, offset by a 45% reduction in ore tonnes processed. Production from Pilar increased by 11% compared to the first quarter of 2025, driven by operational efficiency improvements at the mine. Gold sold for the quarter was 10,986 ounces, compared to 19,022 ounces sold in the second quarter of 2024. Realized gold price increased to $3,264 per ounce, representing a 39% increase from the $2,354 per ounce realized in the second quarter of 2024. Cash operating costs were $1,191 per ounce of gold sold and all-in sustaining costs (AISC) were $1,814 per ounce, representing increases of 11% and 18%, respectively, compared to the second quarter of 2024. These increases mainly reflect lower sales volumes spreading fixed costs over fewer ounces. Revenue for the quarter was $35.8 million, reflecting contributions solely from the Pilar mine, compared to $44.8 million in the second quarter of 2024, when revenue included ounces produced and sold from both the Pilar and Turmalina mines. Despite the lower number of ounces sold, the impact on revenue was partially offset by higher realized gold price year-over year. Operating costs for the quarter were $13.1 million, compared to $19.9 million in the second quarter of 2024. Net loss for the quarter was $6.6 million, or $0.08 per share, compared to a net income of $13.5 million, or $0.17?per share, in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted net income for the quarter, excluding the impact of $23.5 million in expenses recorded due to the incident at the MTL complex, was $16.8 million, or $0.21 per share. Free cash flow 1 for the quarter was $11.3 million, compared to $15.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. Free cash flow is calculated as operating cash flow plus asset retirement obligation expenditures, less sustaining capital. On a per-ounce bases, free cash flow increased to $1,031 per ounce of gold sold in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $801 per ounce of gold sold in the second quarter of 2024. Cash position and working capital As of June 30, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $48.3 million, representing a 4.1% increase from $46.4 million as of December 31, 2024 mainly reflecting the impact of higher realized gold prices. As of June 30, 2025, working capital was $11.1 million, compared to working capital of $13.7 million as of December 31, 2024. Luis Albano Tondo, CEO of Jaguar, stated: "The second quarter of 2025 represented a pivotal period for Jaguar, as we continued to operate exclusively from our Pilar mine following the temporary suspension of Turmalina late last year. We were encouraged by Pilar's robust operational performance, driven by higher head grades and ongoing efficiency improvements. While total production was lower year-over-year due to Turmalina's absence, Pilar's output increased by 3% year-over-year and 11% compared to the first quarter of 2025. A significantly higher realized gold price partially offset the impact of lower volumes on our margins. Despite reporting a net loss for the quarter, adjusted net income of $16.8 million-excluding expenses associated with the MTL incident-highlights the strength of Pilar's operating performance. Additionally, strong free cash flow per ounce underlines our ability to generate value, even as a single-asset producer. Subsequent to the quarter-end, we successfully resolved a significant environmental fine (see press release dated July 14, 2025), marking an important milestone as we advance toward the planned restart of Turmalina, targeted for the first quarter of 2026. We were also pleased to announce further exploration success at Pilar's BA zone (see press release dated August 5, 2025), where recent drilling returned a standout intercept of 12.80 g/t Au over 25.00 meters (320.00 GT - Grade x Thickness), confirming the presence of robust, high-grade mineralization at depth. With the BA zone expected to contribute approximately 50% of Pilar's future production, these results reinforce our confidence in the mine's long-term outlook. These recent achievements underscore our commitment to disciplined execution, operational excellence, and the creation of sustainable, long-term value. Looking ahead, we remain focused not only on realizing the full potential of our existing assets through organic growth, but also on pursuing select strategic growth opportunities that could further enhance shareholder value and strengthen our position as a leading mid-tier gold producer in Brazil." [1] This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. For more details, refer to the Non-GAAP Performance Measures section of the MD&A. Second Quarter 2025 Results ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Financial Data Revenue $ 35,826 $ 44,779 $ 63,115 $ 77,356 Operating costs 13,079 19,897 23,628 38,212 Depreciation 3,215 7,828 5,991 14,989 Gross profit 19,532 17,054 33,496 24,155 Net (loss) income (6,614 ) 13,469 (8,233 ) 16,295 Per share ("EPS") (0.08 ) 0.17 (0.10 ) 0.21 Adjusted Net income 1,3 16,838 13,469 20,973 16,295 Adjusted EPS 1,3 0.21 0.17 0.26 0.21 EBITDA (729 ) 25,159 2,324 37,174 Adjusted EBITDA 1,2 29,614 22,381 44,290 33,701 Adjusted EBITDA per share 1,2 0.37 0.28 0.56 0.43 Cash operating costs (per ounce sold) 1 1,191 1,046 1,151 1,101 All-in sustaining costs (per ounce sold) 1 1,814 1,517 1,740 1,558 Average realized gold price (per ounce) 1 3,264 2,354 3,078 2,228 Cash generated from operating activities 12,339 20,766 12,080 28,875 Free cash flow 1 11,327 15,233 8,763 18,739 Free cash flow (per ounce sold) 1 1,031 801 427 540 Sustaining capital expenditures 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 Non-sustaining capital expenditures 1 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Total capital expenditures 7,833 10,806 12,174 19,048 1 Average realized gold price, sustaining and non-sustaining capital expenditures, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs, free cash flow, EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures section of the MD&A. 2 Adjusted EBITDA excludes non-cash items such as impairment, foreign exchange, stock-based compensation, fair value adjustments on short-term investments and write downs. For more details refer to the Non-GAAP Performance Measures section of the MD&A. 3 Adjusted Net income does not include Satinoco incident expenses for the three and six-month ended June 30, 2025, of $23.5 million $29.6 million respectively. Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Operating Data Gold produced (ounces) 10,973 16,829 20,897 33,006 Gold sold (ounces) 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Primary development (metres) 628 1,273 1,066 2,202 Exploration development (metres) - 679 - 1,157 Secondary development (metres) 860 1,130 2,665 2,212 Definition, infill, and exploration drilling (metres) 5,755 9,229 11,194 16,072 Non-GAAP Performance Measures The Company has included the following Non-GAAP performance measures in this document: cash operating costs per ounce of gold sold, all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold, average realized gold price (per ounce of gold sold), sustaining capital expenditures, non-sustaining capital expenditures, adjusted operating cash flow, free cash flow, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), adjusted EBITDA and working capital. These Non-GAAP performance measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate the Company's performance. Accordingly, they 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. More specifically, Management believes that these figures are a useful indicator to investors and management of a mine's performance as they provide: (i) a measure of the mine's cash margin per ounce, by comparison of the cash operating costs per ounce to the price of gold; (ii) the trend in costs as the mine matures; and (iii) an internal benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other mines. The definitions of these performance measures and reconciliation of the Non-GAAP measures to reported IFRS measures are outlined below. Reconciliation of sustaining capital to non-sustaining capital expenditures 1 ($ thousands) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Sustaining capital 1 Primary development $ 2,492 $ 4,124 $ 4,180 $ 7,844 Brownfield exploration 202 312 433 640 Mine-site sustaining 1,154 1,764 1,980 2,713 Other sustaining capital 2 203 101 386 209 Total sustaining capital 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 Non-sustaining capital (including capital projects) 1 Mine-site non-sustaining 714 3,737 1,503 6,374 Asset retirement obligation - non-sustaining 2 3,039 768 3,662 1,270 Other non-sustaining capital 1 29 - 30 (2 ) Total non-sustaining capital 1 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Total capital expenditures $ 7,833 $ 10,806 $ 12,174 $ 19,048 1 Sustaining and non-sustaining capital are non-GAAP financial measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to the non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures section of the MD&A. Capital expenditures are included in the calculation of all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs. 2 Asset retirement obligation - non-sustaining is related to expenditures with dam closing projects. Payments related to the Company asset retirement obligation are classified as operating activities in accordance with IFRS financial measures. Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Cash generated from operating activities $ 12,339 $ 20,766 $ 12,080 $ 28,875 Adjustments Asset Retirement Obligation 3,039 768 3,662 1,270 Sustaining capital expenditures 2 (4,051 ) (6,301 ) (6,979 ) (11,406 ) Free cash flow $ 11,327 $ 15,233 $ 8,763 $ 18,739 Ounces of gold sold 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Free cash flow per ounce sold $ 1,031 $ 801 $ 427 $ 540 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. 2 Further details on the sustaining capital expenditures composition can be found on the reconciliation of sustaining capital and non-sustaining capital expenditures in the non-GAAP reconciliation. Reconciliation of Cash Operating Costs, All-In Sustaining Costs and All-In Costs per Ounce Sold 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Operating costs $ 13,079 $ 19,897 $ 23,628 $ 38,212 General & administration expenses 3 2,196 2,097 4,551 3,896 Corporate stock-based compensation 615 428 618 436 Sustaining capital expenditures 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 All-in sustaining cash costs 19,941 28,723 35,776 53,950 Reclamation (operating sites) (12 ) 125 (56 ) 145 All-in sustaining costs $ 19,929 $ 28,848 $ 35,720 $ 54,095 Non-sustaining capital expenditures 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Exploration and evaluation costs (greenfield) 462 378 857 960 Reclamation (non-operating sites) 1,818 (50 ) 1,306 (63 ) Care and maintenance (non-operating sites) 4 9,957 150 18,276 340 All-in costs $ 35,948 $ 33,831 $ 61,354 $ 62,974 Ounces of gold sold 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Cash operating costs per ounce sold 2 $ 1,191 $ 1,046 $ 1,151 $ 1,101 All-in sustaining costs per ounce sold 2 $ 1,814 $ 1,517 $ 1,740 $ 1,558 All-in costs per ounce sold 2 $ 3,272 $ 1,779 $ 2,989 $ 1,814 Average realized gold price $ 3,264 $ 2,354 $ 3,078 $ 2,228 Cash operating margin per ounce sold $ 2,073 $ 1,308 $ 1,927 $ 1,127 All-in sustaining margin per ounce sold $ 1,450 $ 837 $ 1,338 $ 670 1 Capital expenditures are included in our calculation of all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs. 2 Cash operating costs, all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs are all non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Result may not calculate due to rounding. 3 Does not include G&A expenses related to Oncas de Pitangui (Q2 2025: $83 and YTD: $229). 4 Includes care and maintenance for Turmalina (resumption expenses and disbursements related to environmental and communities) and care and maintenance costs for Paciencia and Roca Grande mines. Reconciliation of Net Income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net (loss) Income $ (6,614 ) $ 13,469 $ (8,233 ) $ 16,295 Income tax expense 537 3,273 1,131 4,522 Finance costs 2,098 556 3,364 1,301 Depreciation and amortization 3,250 7,861 6,062 15,056 EBITDA 1 $ (729 ) $ 25,159 $ 2,324 $ 37,174 Changes in other provisions and VAT taxes 3,047 309 3,453 817 Satinoco event 23,452 - 29,206 - Foreign exchange loss (gain) 3,785 (3,515 ) 9,675 (4,726 ) Stock-based compensation 615 428 618 436 Financial instruments (gain) (556 ) - (986 ) - Adjusted EBITDA 1 $ 29,614 $ 22,381 $ 44,290 $ 33,701 Weighted average outstanding shares 79,313,603 79,093,609 79,312,658 79,080,137 Adjusted EBITDA per share 1 $ 0.37 $ 0.28 $ 0.56 $ 0.43 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. Working capital 1 June 30 December 31 ($ thousands) 2025 2024 Cash and cash equivalents $ 48,286 $ 46,357 Other current assets: Short term investment 2,426 1,438 Restricted cash 1,074 923 Inventory 15,517 15,343 Recoverable taxes 3,226 3,933 Other accounts receivable 904 328 Prepaid expenses and advances 1,752 2,226 Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (16,398 ) (15,803 ) Notes payable (2,012 ) (3,044 ) Lease liabilities (1,332 ) (1,363 ) Current tax liability (350 ) (1,422 ) Other taxes payable (293 ) (487 ) Reclamation provisions (6,204 ) (8,585 ) Legal and other provisions (35,538 ) (26,174 ) Working capital 1 $ 11,058 $ 13,670 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. Qualified Person Scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Luis Albano Tondo, BSc Mining Eng, MEngSc, MBA, FAusIMM, who is also of the CEO of Jaguar Mining Inc. and is a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The Iron Quadrangle The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 1699-1701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiaba, and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the third largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with over 45,000 hectares. About Jaguar Mining Inc. Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development, and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the MTL complex (Turmalina mine and plant) and Caete complex (Pilar and Roca Grande mines, and Caete plant). The Roca Grande mine has been on temporary care and maintenance since April 2019. The Company also owns the Paciencia complex (Santa Isabel mine and plant), which had been on care and maintenance since 2012 and is currently being evaluated for a potential restart. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com . For further information please contact: Luis Albano Tondo Chief Executive Officer Jaguar Mining Inc. luis.albano@jaguarmining.com +55 31-99959-6337 Marina de Freitas Interim Chief Financial Officer marina.freitas@jaguarmining.com.br +55 31-98463-5344 Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" 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. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the duration of the temporary suspension of the Company's MTL complex in the wake of the slump at its Satinoco dry tailings pile, the cost and timing of resuming operations at the MTL complex, the Company's ability to advance and complete its plan to resume operations at the MTL complex in accordance with (and as contemplated by) the above, the future stability of the tailings pile in question and safety of the Turmalina mine, the amount, timing and payment terms of any fines imposed on the Company, as well as any costs and damages arising from any civil or criminal lawsuits, resulting from the tailings pile slump, management's expectations regarding potential outcomes of any ongoing legal matters relating to the tailings pile slump, management's expectations regarding the Company's response to the tailings pile slump and the Company's recovery and remediation efforts at the MTL complex, any information and statements related to future operations at any of the Company's properties, including Pilar and Turmalina, any information and statements related to expected growth, sales, production statistics, ore grades, tonnes milled, recovery rates, cash operating costs, definition/delineation drilling, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of projects and new deposits, success of exploration, development and mining activities, currency fluctuations, capital requirements, project studies, mine life extensions, restarting suspended or disrupted operations, continuous improvement initiatives, and resolution of pending litigation. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, assumptions about the future and long-term stability of the Satinoco tailings pile; there will be no unforeseen adverse weather events or other external factors that could delay the Company's recovery or remediation efforts; the current assumptions regarding the extent of the damage and timeline for repairs at the MTL complex remain accurate and will not require significant revision as further assessments are completed; the estimated timeline for recommencing operations at the MTL complex; the estimated timeline for the development of the Company's mineral properties; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of the price of, gold; the accuracy of reserve and resource estimates and the assumptions on which the reserve and resource estimates are based; the receipt of necessary permits; market competition; ongoing relations with employees and impacted communities; political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Company operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, the impact of any potential power rationing, tailings facility regulation, exploration and mine operating licenses and permits being obtained and renewed and/or there being adverse amendments to mining or other laws in Brazil and any changes to general business and economic conditions. Forward-looking information involves a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including among others: the risk of Jaguar not meeting the timelines and achieving the milestones outlined above regarding the Company's current plan and process for resuming operations at the MTL complex, the risk of Jaguar not meeting the forecast plans regarding its operations and financial performance; uncertainties with respect to the price of gold, labour disruptions, mechanical failures, increase in costs, environmental compliance and change in environmental legislation and regulation, weather delays and increased costs or production delays due to natural disasters, power disruptions, procurement and delivery of parts and supplies to the operations; uncertainties inherent to capital markets in general (including the sometimes volatile valuation of securities and an uncertain ability to raise new capital) and other risks inherent to the gold exploration, development and production industry, which, if incorrect, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company and described herein. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of gold exploration, development, mining and production, including environmental hazards, tailings dam failures, industrial accidents and workplace safety problems, unusual or unexpected geological formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding, chemical spills, procurement fraud and gold bullion thefts and losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or the inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. 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 Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis, as well as other public disclosure documents that can be accessed under the issuer profile of "Jaguar Mining Inc." on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com . The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. SOURCE: Jaguar Mining, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/jaguar-mining-reports-second-quarter-2025-financial-results-delivering-a-solid-pe-1060987 Company Strengthens Treasury with B.C. Mineral Exploration Tax Credit VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. (the "Company" or "Prospect Ridge") (CSE:PRR)(OTCQB:PRRSF)(FRA:OED) is pleased to announce the successful completion of field programs at its Knauss Creek and Holy Grail projects, and the commencement of exploration activities at its newly acquired Castle and Excalibur copper-gold porphyry projects in north-central British Columbia (B.C.). The Company also confirms receipt of a $200,000 B.C. Mineral Exploration Tax Credit (METC), further strengthening its current treasury of $2.3 million. Completion of Knauss Creek and Holy Grail Programs At the Company's 100%-owned Knauss Creek and Holy Grail projects, located just north of Terrace, B.C., crews from Equity Exploration Consultants Inc. have completed a four-week program of prospecting, mapping, and rock sampling across 17 high-priority exploration targets. An additional three targets will be assessed within the next ten days while field crews complete preparations for other programs. (Figure 1).[ML1] The program, based at Prospect Ridge's fully equipped Terrace camp, utilized the Company's fleet of trucks and ATVs, along with helicopter support from Quantum Helicopters Ltd. A total of 61 rock samples were collected and sent for assay, with results expected in the coming weeks[ML2]. Detailed geological mapping will be integrated with assay data to highlight potential drill targets across the fully drill-permitted[RV3] combined land package of 625.5 km. President & CEO Len Brownlie commented: "After spending a day in the field with the Equity Exploration team at Holy Grail, I was extremely impressed by their mapping and prospecting work in challenging alpine terrain and under adverse weather conditions. Based on what I observed, I am confident the team has thoroughly reviewed all high-priority targets on both Holy Grail and Knauss Creek, and we look forward to receiving the assay results and Equity's final report." Excalibur Copper-Gold Porphyry Project The Excalibur project (formerly "Jacobite") covers 27.7 km in the Skeena Natural Resource Region of central B.C. It is road-accessible, close to infrastructure and power, and lies in an area of active mining and exploration, including Quartz Mountain Resources Ltd.'s Jake and Maestro projects[RV4]. A one-week mapping and prospecting program was completed on July 29, with 15 rock samples submitted for assay. Fieldwork identified chalcopyrite mineralization outcropping within a copper-in-soil anomaly and mapped several newly identified diorite porphyry intrusions. Some of these porphyries exhibited feldspar replacement by epidote, which may represent propylitic-style alteration characteristic of peripheral zones in porphyry systems. The Company has secured a permit exemption for its planned 30 line-km Induced Polarization (IP) survey over key copper anomalies. Contractor selection is underway, and the survey is expected to be completed in September 2025. President & CEO Len Brownlie added: "We are extremely excited to continue our exploration efforts over the next two months on the newly acquired Excalibur and Castle projects. With the recent $200,000 METC from the B.C. government and a strong treasury, Prospect Ridge is well positioned to advance these promising assets rapidly and strategically." Castle Copper-Gold Porphyry Project The Castle project, covering 29.14 km in the Toodoggone gold-copper district, is located approximately 40 km northeast of Thesis Gold Inc.'s Ranch project. A 325 line-km airborne magnetic and radiometric survey will be conducted by Pioneer Exploration Consultants Ltd. within the next four weeks, followed by an 8 line-km IP survey conducted by SJ Geophysics Ltd. focused on the north and west Castle gossan slopes. The Company has also received a permit exemption for the IP survey. Concurrently, field crews will carry out prospecting and mapping over both the Castle and Abbey gossans. Next Steps The objective of the current programs at all four projects is to define multiple high-priority drill targets in preparation for a minimum 2,000-metre diamond drilling campaign on each property, targeted for summer 2026 and pending receipt of all necessary permits [RV5] . Figure 1: Plan map showing the main target areas on the Holy Grail/Knauss Creek project Figure 2: Examining pyrite-altered rocks at the French Peak gossan above the Excalibur target area First Nations Land Acknowledgement Prospect Ridge acknowledges that Castle is situated within the traditional territory of the Tahltan and Tsay Keh Dene First Nations. Prospect Ridge also acknowledges that Excalibur is situated within the traditional territory of the Lake Babine First Nation. Prospect Ridge is committed to developing positive and mutually beneficial relationships with First Nations based on trust and respect and a foundation of open and honest communications. Qualified Person Statement All technical data, as disclosed in this press release, has been verified by Ron Voordouw, Ph.D, P.Geo. Director of Geoscience for Equity Exploration Consultants Ltd., a consultant to the Company and a qualified person as defined under the terms of National Instrument 43-101. About Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. is a British Columbia based exploration and development company focused on critical metals and gold exploration. Prospect Ridge's management and technical team collectively have over 100 years of experience in mineral exploration and believes the Company's properties have the potential to extend the boundaries of the Golden Horseshoe across this vastly under-explored region. Contact Information Prospect Ridge Resources Corp. Mike Iverson - Chairman, Director Email: mike@miverson.ca Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This release includes certain statements and information ("FLI") that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. FLI relates to future events or future performance and reflect the current expectations or beliefs of the Company's management. Anything that is not historical fact is FLI. Generally, FLI can be, without limitation, identified by the use of forward-looking wording such as "plans", "intends", "believes", "expects", "anticipates" or "estimates", and statements or phrases that certain actions, events or results "may", "might", "could", "should" or "would" occur, and similar expressions. FLI is not historical fact, is made as of the date of this news release and includes, without limitation, statements and discussions of future plans, intentions, expectations, estimates and forecasts, and statements as to management's intentions and expectations with respect to, among other things, positive exploration results at the Lemon Lake project. FLI involves numerous risks and uncertainties, and are based on assumptions, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any FLI. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the availability of financing to continue exploration activities, the availability and cost of qualified exploration personnel and service providers, and that future exploration results at the Lemon Lake project will not be as anticipated. In making any FLI in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that future exploration results at the Lemon Lake project will be as anticipated. Although management has endeavored to evaluate and use reasonable assumptions and to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in FLI, these assumptions may prove incorrect and there may be other factors that cause results not to be as intended, expected, anticipated or estimated. There can be no assurance that FLI will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those expressed in FLI. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on FLI, and are further cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any FLI expressed or incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor. SOURCE: Prospect Ridge Resources Corp View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/prospect-ridge-completes-knauss-creek-and-holy-grail-exploration-launches-castle-1061006 First-ever Launchpool on Bybit's EU newly MiCA R -licensed EU exchange, going live on 14th August 2025. R The partnership connects XION's consumer-first Layer-1 to Bybit EU users across 29 EEA markets. Builds on XION's MiCA-aligned compliance leadership and prior Bybit Global Launchpool debut. VIENNA, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- XION , the consumer-first Layer-1 blockchain, today announced it will be the first ever Launchpool project on Bybit's EU exchange. The partnership follows Bybit's receipt of its MiCAR license in May 2025 and the rollout of Bybit.eu, enabling verified EEA users to onboard to a fully compliant platform, where they can get yield approved assets to earn XION. The Launchpool will feature a total pool size of 100,000 XION, distributed as follows: 50,000 XION to XION stakers (estimated APR: 60%) 30,000 XION to MNT stakers (estimated APR: 36%) 20,000 XION to USDC stakers (estimated APR: 24%) As one of the few Layer-1 projects backed by Circle Ventures , XION has seen strong traction in bringing blockchain-based experiences to everyday users, with over 100+ global brands leveraging its platform. XION has been steadily growing its European presence, as it became the first Layer-1 blockchain to publish a MiCA Title II whitepaper , integrated natively with Paris-based Ledger in June, listed on Bitvavo earlier this summer, and is already working with leading European brands on blockchain-powered consumer experiences. Similarly, one of Bybit's main focuses in 2025 is its European expansion. Being the inaugural Launchpool partner on Bybit EU MiCAR-compliant EU platform, XION will have access to a growing regulated European audience. "Being the very first Launchpool on Bybit EU is a major signal of XION's deep partnership with Bybit and our shared focus on expanding compliantly in the European markets," said Anthony Anzalone, Founder of XION. "Europe is now the proving ground for regulated digital assets, and together with Bybit EU we're setting a precedent for how mainstream audiences can discover and engage with blockchain technology in a safe, intuitive way." "Recently securing our MiCAR license in Austria represents our commitment and major focus in 2025 to bring compliant, innovative crypto services to European users. Today's launch with XION, a blockchain focused on mainstream adoption of crypto, demonstrates how regulation can accelerate rather than hinder innovation, and perfectly aligns with our European expansion strategy." - Mazurka Zheng, CEO of Bybit EU. The collaboration also builds on XION's earlier relationship with Bybit, where the company featured on Bybit Global's Launchpool during its TGE. The renewed partnership underscores the two companies' shared commitment to making blockchain accessible to everyday users. About XION XION is the first walletless L1 blockchain purpose-built for consumer adoption. Utilizing protocol-level implementations related to abstracted accounts, signatures, fees, interoperability, and more, XION empowers developers to build secure, intuitive, and seamless user experiences. By removing common Web3 friction points, XION accelerates the mainstream adoption of Web3 by making blockchain technology more accessible to users and developers. Website | Blog | Discord | Telegram | LinkedIn | X Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice or an offer to invest. No competent authority in the European Union has reviewed or approved this marketing communication. The offeror, person seeking trading admission, or trading platform operator is solely responsible for its content. About Bybit EU Bybit EU GmbH is the newly established European entity, dedicated to serving clients across the European Economic Area (EEA"*" except Malta) via the Bybit.eu platform. Operated by Bybit EU GmbH, a licensed Crypto-Asset Service Provider (CASP) under the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), Bybit EU delivers fully regulated services, including crypto custody, exchange, and rewards products and more, in full compliance with European regulations for investor protection and market integrity. Bybit EU GmbH is a licensed Crypto-Asset-Service Provider under the Markets in Crypto Assets Regulation (MiCA), authorized to offer the following services to residents of the European Economic Area (except Malta): providing custody and administration of crypto-assets on behalf of clients; exchange of crypto-assets for funds; exchange of crypto-assets for other crypto-assets; placing of crypto-assets; and providing transfer services for crypto-assets on behalf of clients. Bybit EU GmbH is neither the operator of a trading platform for crypto-assets nor provides investment advice. Media Contact: press@bybit.com www.bybit.eu Disclaimer: Disclaimer: This press release is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or an offer to buy or sell digital assets. The products and services mentioned herein are subject to applicable laws and regulations in the relevant jurisdictions and may not be available in certain regions. As a centralized exchange, Bybit EU may offer certain products, including staking, that operate on an off-chain basis, where user assets are held by Bybit EU and rewards are calculated and distributed internally without recording transactions on the blockchain. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Users should carefully assess all risks before participating in any digital asset-related activity. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750520/Bybit_EU_Taps_XION_Inaugural_Launchpool_EU_Opening_Regulated_Access.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2723256/Bybit_Europe_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bybit-eu-taps-xion-for-inaugural-launchpool-in-the-eu-opening-regulated-access-for-450m-users-302530066.html GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- News report from GDToday. Yunfu, a city in Guangdong Province known as the "Capital of Stone in China," shines as a radiant pearl in the Lingnan region. Every piece of stone here bears the mark of time. With a legacy spanning over four centuries, Yunfu fuses the raw artistry of nature with the brilliance of human craftsmanship, creating a stone culture that has captivated the world. Yunfu is home to a diverse collection of stone, resembling nature's grand palette and showcasing the "essence of global geological evolution". It boasts over a thousand varieties of stone, including marble, granite, and limestone, alongside internationally renowned stones such as Blue Jade from Africa, Crystal from Italy, Snow Mountain Blue, Pandora, Golden Peacock, and Crystal Blue from Brazil. As "China's Stone Circulation Demonstration Base" and "China's Capital of Artificial Stone," Yunfu hosts the annual International Stone Materials Science and Tech Fair and Stone Culture Week, drawing merchants from around the globe and living up to its promise of "global sourcing and global sales." Yunfu hosts China's largest stone industry cluster, with over 4,000 enterprises stretching along the famed "Hundred-Mile Stone Materials Corridor" and 200,000 skilled professionals driving innovation. The simultaneous advancement of eco-friendly production and digital transformation has infused traditional industries with green vitality in the modern era. Today, Yunfu connects with the world through stone. From monumental architectural visions to elegant touches in home design, the stone in Yunfu, carved with centuries of craftsmanship and infused with the spirit of nature, continues to create timeless masterpieces for the global stage. Tips: The 22nd Yunfu International Stone Materials Sci-Tech Fair and the 16th Yunfu Stone Cultural Week will be held from October 18 to 21, 2025, at Hall A of the Yunfu International Stone Materials Expo Center at Hekou Subdistrict, Yuncheng District, Yunfu City. This year, the event will feature stone pavilions of fine stone products showcased by stone enterprises. We sincerely invite fellow professionals, designers, and distinguished guests from around the world in the stone industry to participate as exhibitors or visitors. Contact: Wu Dandan Phone: +86 139 2719 8250 Scan the QR codes to discover more about Yunfu's stone industry. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748756/1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748757/2.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748758/3.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748759/4.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2748760/5.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/stone-in-yunfu-carving-timeless-beauty-through-centuries-of-craftsmanship-302530068.html New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - 1000Libraries has officially unveiled the winners of the 2025 1000 Libraries Awards, following the largest public vote in the program's history with over 200,000 participants worldwide. The annual awards celebrate the most innovative and commercially successful literary destinations, from historic libraries to cutting-edge book cafes, revealing new trends shaping the global book commerce industry. El Ateneo Grand Splendid, Buenos Aires - bookstore in a former theater. Historic & Adaptive Spaces Dominate Rankings This year's results show that adaptive reuse of historic buildings remains a winning strategy for book-related destinations. The restored Gothic church housing Boekhandel Dominicanen in Maastricht, Netherlands, and the 1919 theater-turned-bookstore El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires, are prime examples of venues blending cultural heritage with modern customer experiences. Other standout destinations include The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, which operates from a former bank, and Maison Assouline in London, positioned as a premium cultural brand within a historic banking hall. Diversified Revenue Models Driving Success The awards highlight the commercial advantage of combining literature with hospitality and lifestyle services.1000 Libraries Standout examples include Minoa Pera in Istanbul, offering over 45,000 titles alongside a full cafe menu and retail items, and Cafebreria El Pendulo Polanco in Mexico City, integrating book sales with restaurant-style dining. Hybrid models, like Bibliotheque NYC's cafe-to-wine-bar transformation, show how venues can capture multiple markets in one space. Boekhandel Dominicanen, Maastricht - bookstore in a Gothic church. Global Innovation & Regional Trends European markets continue to lead in fusing cultural programming with commercial viability, while Asian markets are gaining attention for immersive design-led destinations such as Dujiangyan Zhongshuge in China. In South America, Brazil's Livraria Funambule has built a unique visitor draw through intimate design and outdoor dining spaces. Insights for the Future of Book Commerce The 2025 awards confirm that the future of physical book destinations lies in blending retail, hospitality, and community experiences, supported by extended opening hours and distinctive design. By creating multi-touchpoint environments, operators are successfully competing with the rise of digital platforms. The full rankings and case studies are now available at www.1000libraries.com, offering valuable insights for cultural planners, retail developers, and independent operators worldwide. About the 1000 Libraries Awards The 1000 Libraries Awards is an international recognition program dedicated to celebrating excellence in libraries, bookstores, and literary cafes. Assessed through global public voting and independent evaluation, the awards recognize cultural impact, architectural significance, operational innovation, and long-term commercial sustainability. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262346 SOURCE: FG Newswire Time Doctor recognized with Gold, Silver, and Bronze honors at the International Business Awards - marking its first-ever Stevie wins. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Time Doctor , the workforce analytics platform that empowers managers with the visibility to lead with trust, not control, swept three categories at the prestigious 2025 International Business Awards, marking the company's first-ever Stevie wins. The honors recognize Time Doctor's leadership in helping remote, hybrid, and in-office teams work smarter through privacy-first, actionable productivity insights. Time Doctor Logo the workforce analytics platform that empowers managers with the visibility to lead with trust, not control. "Winning our first Stevie Awards validates that privacy-first workforce analytics isn't just the future - it's what modern teams need right now," said Liam Martin, Co-Founder of Time Doctor. "These awards are proof that our approach to building trust through clear, actionable insights is resonating with leaders worldwide who want to scale without sacrificing autonomy." Time Doctor earned recognition across three key categories: Gold Stevie Award - Liam Martin, Thought Leader of the Year - Business Products Silver Stevie Award - Achievement in Technology Innovation for the Unusual Activity Report (UAR) Bronze Stevie Award - Brand & Experiences - Thought Leadership for Running Remote Gold Stevie Award - Liam Martin: Thought Leader of the Year Liam Martin, Co-Founder of Time Doctor , was honored for his influence in shaping the global remote work movement. Judges praised his ability to blend "sharp business insight with scalable thought leadership" while building a platform that has "significantly shaped the remote work ecosystem." Through Time Doctor, Martin has scaled a privacy-first workforce analytics solution used by over 10,000 teams in 183+ countries. As the driving force behind Running Remote - the world's fastest-growing event for remote-first leadership - he has created a strategic hub for executives to share strategies, hear from 400+ world-class speakers, and connect with a community of over 10,000 attendees. Silver Stevie Award - Achievement in Technology Innovation: Unusual Activity Report Time Doctor's Unusual Activity Report (UAR) earned Silver for its breakthrough in privacy-first workforce analytics. Launched in 2023, UAR uses AI-driven behavioral analytics to detect irregular work patterns - such as repetitive keystrokes or use of devices like mouse jigglers - without invasive oversight. This trust-centered approach helps managers address performance risks while preserving autonomy, improving data accuracy, and reinforcing a culture of accountability. Judges called UAR "a standout example of privacy-first innovation that effectively balances trust, transparency, and productivity in today's remote and hybrid workforce." Bronze Stevie Award - Brand & Experiences: Running Remote Time Doctor's Running Remote conference earned Bronze for its impact as "a best-in-class brand activation" that has elevated the global conversation on distributed work. The event combines research-backed content, strategic thought leadership, and year-round community engagement. More than 87% of attendees implement new strategies post-event, underscoring its practical value for remote-first leadership teams. About Time Doctor Time Doctor is the workforce analytics platform that empowers managers with the visibility to lead with trust, not control. By transforming real-time work data into actionable insights, Time Doctor helps organizations of all sizes and industries improve productivity, proactively reduce burnout, and make smarter, faster decisions. Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, Time Doctor delivers intuitive onboarding, enterprise-grade security, and an exceptional user experience, including privacy controls and 24/7 multilingual customer support. Built for scale, the platform helps organizations create healthier, high-performing teams wherever and however they work. Learn more at www.timedoctor.com . SOURCE: Time Doctor View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/time-doctor-wins-three-stevie-awards-for-remote-work-innovation-a-1060821 HONG KONG, CHINA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / SouthGobi Resources Ltd. (Hong Kong Stock Exchange ("HKEX"):1878, TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V"):SGQ) (the "Company" or "SouthGobi") today announces its financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. All figures are in U.S. dollars ("USD") unless otherwise stated. Significant Events and Highlights The Company's significant events and highlights for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and the subsequent period to August 14, 2025 are as follows: Operating Results - The Company increased the scale of its mining operations since 2024, as well as implementing various coal processing methods, including screening, wet washing and dry coal processing, which have resulted in improved coal quality and enhanced production volume and growth of coal export volume into China during the period. In response to the market demand for different coal products, the Company focused on expanding the categories of coal products in its portfolio, including mixed coal, wet washed coal and dry processed coal. In addition, the Company has experienced success with processing its inventory of F-grade coal products through cost-effective screening procedures. As a result of the improvement in the quality of the processed F-grade coal, the Company was able to meet the import coal quality standards established by Chinese authorities and has been exporting this product to China for sale since the first quarter of 2024, further enhancing the Company's coal export volume. The Company recorded sales volume of 3.0 million tonnes for the second quarter of 2025 compared to 1.2 million tonnes for the second quarter of 2024, while the Company recorded an average realised selling price of $52.6 per tonne for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $77.6 per tonne for the second quarter of 2024. The decrease in the average realised selling price was mainly due to the Company facing headwinds in the China coal market since 2024, leading to the Company changing its product mix to sell a greater percentage of lower-priced coal products. Financial Results - The Company recorded a $14.3 million loss from operations for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $15.0 million profit from operation for the second quarter of 2024. The financial results were impacted by the decreased average realised selling price, the change in product mix, as the Company sold more processed coal with higher production costs, and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2025. Notice from Mongolian Government Plenipotentiary and designation of Company's mining deposits as mineral deposits of strategic importance -On April 2, 2025, Southgobi Sands LLC ("SGS") received a letter from a plenipotentiary representative of the Mongolian government (the "Letter") which invited SGS to participate in negotiations in relation to determining the Mongolian state's ownership interest in SGS, being the legal entity which holds the Company's coal mining and exploration licenses in Mongolia. The Letter states that, in furtherance of Mongolia's National Wealth Fund Law which was passed in April 2024, the Mongolian government resolved on February 5, 2025 to appoint a plenipotentiary representative (the "Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government") to negotiate with legal persons holding a mining license for a deposit designated by the Mongolian government as a strategically important deposit ("Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance") in relation to determining the proportionate interest the Mongolian state has in such legal entity or whether to replace the Mongolian state's interest with a royalty interest. The Company has been advised by its Mongolian legal counsel that, the Government of Mongolia is empowered to participate on an equity ownership basis with the license holder in the exploitation and/or mining of each Mineral Deposit of Strategic Importance on terms to be negotiated between the Government of Mongolia and such license holder. Based solely on the knowledge of the Company's Mongolian legal counsel, the Company is aware that various other license holders of Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance have entered into similar negotiations with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government. On April 24, 2025, SGS initiated preliminary discussions with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government. The Company anticipates that the discussion between SGS and the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government will continue and both parties will endeavour to engage in good faith for the purpose of arriving at a mutual and constructive understanding and agreement. The Company intends to fully cooperate with the Mongolian government and provide all necessary information to the extent permitted by applicable law. As at the date of this press release, the deposits covered by four of the Company's Mongolian mining licenses have been designated as Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance by Mongolian government authorities. The relevant mining licenses relate to the Company's Ovoot Tolgoi Mine and the Soumber Deposit. Additional Tax and Tax Penalty Imposed by the Mongolian Tax Authority ("MTA") - On July 18, 2023, SGS received an official notice (the "Notice") issued by the MTA stating that the MTA had completed a periodic tax audit (the "Audit") on the financial information of SGS for the tax assessment years between 2017 and 2020, including transfer pricing, royalty, air-pollution fee and unpaid tax payables. As a result of the Audit, the MTA notified SGS that it is imposing a tax penalty against SGS in the amount of approximately $75.0 million. The penalty mainly relates to the different view on the interpretation of tax law between the Company and the MTA. Under Mongolian law, the Company had a period of 30 days from the date of receipt of the Notice to file an appeal in relation to the Audit. Subsequently the Company engaged an independent tax consultant in Mongolia to provide tax advice and support to the Company and filed an appeal letter in relation to the Audit with the MTA in accordance with Mongolian laws on August 17, 2023. On February 8, 2024, SGS received notice from the Tax Dispute Resolution Council ("TDRC") which stated that, after the TDRC's review, the TDRC issued a decision in relation to SGS' appeal of the Audit, and ordered that the audit assessments set forth in the Notice of July 18, 2023 be sent back to the MTA for review and re-assessment. On February 22, 2024, SGS received another notice from the MTA stating that the MTA anticipated commencing the re-assessment process on or about March 7, 2024 and the duration of such process will be approximately 45 working days. On May 15, 2024, SGS received a notice (the "Revised Notice") from the MTA regarding the re-assessment result on the Audit (the "Re-assessment Result"). The re-assessed amount of the tax penalty is approximately $80.0 million. In accordance with applicable Mongolian laws, SGS is entitled to file an appeal to the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result within a 30-day period from the date of receiving the Revised Notice. On June 12, 2024, following consultation with its independent tax consultant in Mongolia, SGS submitted an appeal letter to the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result, in accordance with applicable Mongolian laws. On January 10, 2025, SGS received a resolution dated December 19, 2024 (the "Resolution") from the TDRC in response to the appeal letter sent by SGS to the TDRC on June 12, 2024, relating to the Re-assessment Result. As set forth in the Resolution, the TDRC has determined to reduce the re-assessed amount of tax penalty against SGS from approximately $80.0 million to approximately $26.5 million (the "Revised Re-assessment Result"). In accordance with applicable Mongolian laws, SGS is entitled to file an appeal to the Administrative Court of First Instance in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (the "Administrative Court of First Instance") regarding the Revised Re-assessment Result within a 30-day period from the date of receiving the Resolution. After careful consideration and consultation with the Company's independent tax consultant in Mongolia, the Company has determined not to pursue a further appeal of the Revised Re-assessment Result with the Administrative Court of First Instance. On March 19, 2025, SGS received correspondence from the Administrative Court of First Instance requesting supplemental information regarding a court proceeding initiated by certain officers of the MTA ("MTA Officials") against the TDRC. Upon further enquiry, SGS obtained a copy of an order dated March 7, 2025 issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance regarding commencement of court proceedings brought by the MTA Officials. The MTA Officials petitioned the court to overturn the TDRC's ruling that reduced SGS's tax penalty from approximately $80.0 million to approximately $26.5 million ("Proposed Case"). Based on preliminary advice from the Company's independent Mongolian legal counsel and tax consultants: (i) SGS was not named as a third party defendant to these proceedings; (ii) the TDRC's Revised Re-assessment Result remains legally enforceable unless formally overturned by the court; and (iii) SGS's acceptance of the TDRC's decision makes the ruling final under Mongolian tax law. On April 25, 2025, SGS obtained a copy of an order dated April 15, 2025 (the "Latest Court Order") issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance refusing to accept the Proposed Case. According to the Latest Court Order, the Proposed Case was dismissed by the Administrative Court of First Instance. According to applicable Mongolian laws, the plaintiff is entitled to file an appeal to the appellate court, and the Company understood that the MTA Officials, as plaintiff in the Proposed Case, filed an appeal. On June 9, 2025, SGS obtained a copy of a judgement dated May 27, 2025 ("Appellate Court Judgement") issued by the Appellate Court for Administrative in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia (the "Appellate Court"). As per the Appellate Court Judgement, the Appellate Court upheld the court order issued by the Judge of the Administrative Court of First Instance on April 15, 2025. As a result, the claim brought by the MTA Officials against the TDRC in an attempt to dispute or overturn the previous decision made by the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result has been dismissed and rejected. According to applicable Mongolian law, the Appellate Court Judgement shall be final and is not subject to further appeal. In prior year, the Company recorded an additional tax and tax penalty in the amount of $45.5 million, which consists of a tax penalty payable of $26.5 million and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million. As a result of the Revised Re-assessment Result, the Company recorded a reversal of additional tax and tax penalty of $48.5 million in 2024. To date, the Company has paid the MTA an aggregate of $17.3 million in relation to the aforementioned tax penalty. The Company anticipates paying down the outstanding amount of the tax and tax penalty from cash generated from operations in the normal course. According to Mongolian tax law, the Mongolian tax authority has a legal authority to demand payment of the outstanding amount of the Revised Re-assessment Result from the Company at its discretion. 2025 March Deferral Agreement - On March 20, 2025, the Company and JD Zhixing Fund L.P. ("JDZF") entered into an agreement (the "2025 March Deferral Agreement") pursuant to which JDZF agreed to grant the Company a deferral of (i) the cash and payment-in-kind interest ("PIK Interest"), management fees, and related deferral fees in the aggregate amount of approximately $111.6 million which will be due and payable to JDZF on or before August 31, 2025 pursuant to the deferral agreement dated March 19, 2024 and the deferral agreement dated April 30, 2024; (ii) semi-annual cash interest payment of approximately $7.9 million payable to JDZF on May 19, 2025 under the Convertible Debenture; (iii) semi-annual cash interest payments of approximately $8.1 million payable to JDZF on November 19, 2025 and the $4.0 million in PIK Interest payable to JDZF on November 19, 2025 under the JDZF convertible debenture (the "Convertible Debenture"); and (iv) management fees in the aggregate amount of approximately $6.1 million payable to JDZF on May 16, 2025, August 15, 2025, November 15, 2025 and February 15, 2026, respectively, under the amended and restated mutual cooperation agreement (the "Amended and Restated Cooperation Agreement") (collectively, the "2025 March Deferred Amounts"). The effectiveness of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement and the respective covenants, agreements and obligations of each party under the 2025 March Deferral Agreement are subject to the Company obtaining the requisite approval of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement from shareholders in accordance with the requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws and Rule 14.33 and Rule 14A.36 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Listing Rules"). The 2025 March Deferral Agreement was approved by the Company's disinterested shareholders at the annual general meeting ("AGM") of shareholders convened on June 27, 2025. The principal terms of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement are as follows: Payment of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts will be deferred until August 31, 2026 (the "2025 March Deferral Agreement Deferral Date"). As consideration for the deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts which relate to the payment obligations arising from the Convertible Debenture, the Company agreed to pay JDZF a deferral fee equal to 6.4% per annum on the outstanding balance of such 2025 March Deferred Amounts, commencing on the date on which each such 2025 March Deferred Amounts would otherwise have been due and payable under the Convertible Debenture. As consideration for the deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts which relate to payment obligations arising from the Amended and Restated Cooperation Agreement, the Company agreed to pay JDZF a deferral fee equal to 1.5% per annum on the outstanding balance of such 2025 March Deferred Amounts commencing on the date on which each such 2025 March Deferred Amounts would otherwise have been due and payable under the Amended and Restated Cooperation Agreement. The 2025 March Deferral Agreement does not contemplate a fixed repayment schedule for the 2025 March Deferred Amounts or related deferral fees. Instead, the 2025 March Deferral Agreement requires the Company to use its best efforts to pay the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees due and payable under the 2025 March Deferral Agreement to JDZF. During the period beginning as of the effective date of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement and ending as of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement Deferral Date, the Company will provide JDZF with monthly updates of its financial status and business operations, and the Company and JDZF will on a monthly basis discuss and assess in good faith the amount (if any) of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees that the Company may be able to repay to JDZF, having regard to the working capital requirements of the Company's operations and business at such time and with the view of ensuring that the Company's operations and business would not be materially prejudiced as a result of any repayment. If at any time before the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees are fully repaid, the Company proposes to appoint, replace or terminate one or more of its chief executive officer, its chief financial officer or any other senior executive(s) in charge of its principal business function or its principal subsidiary, the Company will first consult with, and obtain written consent (such consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) from JDZF prior to effecting such appointment, replacement or termination. Going Concern - Several adverse conditions and material uncertainties relating to the Company cast significant doubt upon the going concern assumption which includes the deficiencies in assets and working capital. See section "Liquidity and Capital Resources" of this press release for details. OVERVIEW OF OPERATIONAL DATA AND FINANCIAL RESULTS Summary of Operational Data A Non-International Financial Reporting Standards ("non-IFRS") financial measure, refer to "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" section. Cash costs of product sold exclude idled mine asset cash costs. Per 200,000 man hours and calculated based on a rolling 12 month average. Overview of Operational Data For the three months ended June 30, 2025 The Company recorded an average realised selling price of $52.6 per tonne in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $77.6 per tonne in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease was mainly due to the Company facing headwinds in the China coal market since 2024, leading to the Company changing its product mix to sell a greater percentage of lower-priced coal products. The product mix for the second quarter of 2025 consisted of approximately 6% of premium semi-soft coking coal, 56% of standard semi-soft coking coal/premium thermal coal, 3% of standard thermal coal and 35% of processed coal compared to approximately 25% of premium semi-soft coking coal, 23% of standard semi-soft coking coal/premium thermal coal, 10% of standard thermal coal and 42% of processed coal for the second quarter of 2024. The Company's unit cost of sales of product sold was $53.9 per tonne in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $61.3 per tonne in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease was due to change in product mix as more raw coal were sold in the second quarter of 2025 compared to 2024. The Company ended the second quarter of both 2025 and 2024 without a lost time injury. For the six months ended June 30, 2025 The Company sold 5.0 million tonnes for the first six months of 2025 as compared to 2.3 million tonnes for the first six months of 2024. The Company recorded an average realised selling price of $55.4 per tonne for the first six months of 2025 compared to $78.5 per tonne for the first six months of 2024, the decrease was mainly due to the Company facing headwinds in the China coal market since 2024, leading to the Company changing its product mix to sell a greater percentage of lower-priced coal products. The Company's unit cost of sales of product sold was $58.4 per tonne for the first six months of 2025 compared to $52.9 per tonne for the first six months of 2024. The increase was due to the Company expanding into certain categories of processed coal with higher production costs. There was no lost time injury recorded for the first six months of 2025, while there was a lost time injury frequency rate of 0.11 for the for six months of 2024. Summary of Financial Results Revenue and cost of sales related to the Company's Ovoot Tolgoi Mine within the Coal Division operating segment. Refer to note 3 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for further analysis regarding the Company's reportable operating segments. A non-IFRS financial measure, idled mine asset costs represents the depreciation expense relates to the Company's idled plant and equipment. Overview of Financial Results For the three months ended June 30, 2025 The Company recorded a $14.3 million loss from operations for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $15.0 million profit from operations for the second quarter of 2024. The decrease was mainly due to the decreased average realised selling price, the change in product mix as the Company sold more processed coal with higher production costs, and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2025. Revenue was $155.3 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $92.8 million for the second quarter of 2024. The financial results were impacted by increased sales volume, as a result of expansion of its sales network, diversification of its customer baseand expansion of the categories of coal products in its portfolio. Cost of sales was $159.5 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $73.6 million for the second quarter of 2024. The increase in cost of sales was mainly due to increased sales volume, the Company expanding into certain categories of processed coal with higher production costs and more sales were made to a farther destination with higher transportation cost. Cost of sales consists of operating expenses, share-based compensation expense, equipment depreciation, depletion of mineral properties, royalties and idled mine asset costs. Operating expenses in cost of sales reflect the total cash costs of product sold (a Non-IFRS financial measure, refer to "Non-IFRS Financial Measures" section of this press release for further analysis) during the quarter. Operating expenses in cost of sales were $136.8 million for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $59.5 million for the second quarter of 2024. The overall increase in operating expenses was due to the Company expanding into certain categories of processed coal with higher production costs and more sales were made to a farther destination with higher transportation cost. Cost of sales related to idled mine assets for the second quarter of 2025 included $0.3 million related to depreciation expenses for idled equipment (second quarter of 2024: $0.1 million). Other operating expenses were $7.0 million for the second quarter of 2025 (second quarter of 2024: $1.2 million). The increase was due to increased management fee and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was made for the second quarter of 2025, which was offset by a written off of other payables of $6.3 million. Administration expenses were $3.1 million for the second quarter of 2025 as compared to $3.0 million for the second quarter of 2024. The Company continued to minimise evaluation and exploration expenditures in the second quarter of 2025 in order to preserve the Company's financial resources. Evaluation and exploration activities and expenditures in the second quarter of 2025 were limited to ensuring that the Company met the Mongolian Minerals Law requirements in respect of its mining licenses. Finance costs were $9.1 million and $10.3 million for the second quarter of 2025 and 2024 respectively, which primarily consisted of interest expense on the $250.0 million Convertible Debenture. For the six months ended June 30, 2025 The Company recorded a $30.0 million loss from operations in the first six months of 2025 compared to a $47.2 million profit from operations in the first six months of 2024. The financial results were negatively impacted by the decreased average realised selling price, the change in product mix as the Company sold more processed coal with higher production costs, and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2025. Revenue was $278.2 million in the first six months of 2025 compared to $175.0 million in the first six months of 2024. The financial results were impacted by increased sales volume, as a result of expansion of its sales network, diversification of its customer base and expansion of the categories of coal products in its portfolio. Cost of sales were $293.1 million in the first six months of 2025 compared to $119.1 million in the first six months of 2024, as follows: Operating expenses in cost of sales were $251.4 million in the first six months of 2025 compared to $92.9 million in the first six months of 2024. The overall increase in operating expenses was due to the increased sales and the Company expanding into certain categories of processed coal with higher production costs. Cost of sales related to idled mine assets in the first six months of 2025 included $0.6 million related to depreciation expenses for idled equipment (first six months of 2024: $0.1 million). Other operating expenses were $8.6 million in the first six months of 2025 (first six months of 2024: $2.2 million). The increase was due to increased management fee and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was made for the second quarter of 2025, which was offset by a written off of other payables of $6.3 million. Administration expenses were $6.4 million in the first six months of 2025 (first six months of 2024: $6.4 million). The Company continued to minimise evaluation and exploration expenditures in the first six months of 2025 in order to preserve the Company's financial resources. Evaluation and exploration activities and expenditures in the first six months of 2025 were limited to ensuring that the Company met the Mongolian Minerals Law requirements in respect of its mining licenses. Finance costs were $18.0 million and $20.7 million in the first six months of 2025 and 2024 respectively, which primarily consisted of interest expense on the $250.0 million Convertible Debenture. Summary of Quarterly Operational Data A non-IFRS financial measure, refer to section "Non-IFRS Financial Measures". Cash costs of product sold exclude idled mine asset cash costs. Per 200,000 man hours and calculated based on a rolling 12 month average. Summary of Quarterly Financial Results The Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements are reported under IFRS Accounting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. The following table provides highlights, extracted from the Company's annual and interim consolidated financial statements, of quarterly results for the past eight quarters: Revenue and cost of sales relate to the Company's Ovoot Tolgoi Mine within the Coal Division operating segment. Refer to note 3 of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for further analysis regarding the Company's reportable operating segments. A non-IFRS financial measure, idled mine asset costs represents the depreciation expense relates to the Company's idled plant and equipment. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Liquidity and Capital Management The Company has in place a planning, budgeting and forecasting process to help determine the funds required to support the Company's normal operations on an ongoing basis and the Company's expansionary plans. Additional tax and tax penalty imposed by the MTA On July 18, 2023, SGS received the Notice issued by the MTA stating that the MTA had completed the Audit on the financial information of SGS for the tax assessment years between 2017 and 2020, including transfer pricing, royalty, air-pollution fee and unpaid tax payables. As a result of the Audit, the MTA notified SGS that it is imposing a tax penalty against SGS in the amount of approximately $75.0 million. The penalty mainly relates to the different view on the interpretation of tax law between the Company and the MTA. Under Mongolian law, the Company had a period of 30 days from the date of receipt of the Notice to file an appeal in relation to the Audit. Subsequently the Company engaged an independent tax consultant in Mongolia to provide tax advice and support to the Company and filed an appeal letter in relation to the Audit with the MTA in accordance with Mongolian laws on August 17, 2023. On February 8, 2024, SGS received notice from the TDRC which stated that, after the TDRC's review, the TDRC issued a decision in relation to SGS' appeal of the Audit, and ordered that the audit assessments set forth in the Notice of July 18, 2023 be sent back to the MTA for review and re-assessment. On February 22, 2024, SGS received another notice from the MTA stating that the MTA anticipated commencing the re-assessment process on or about March 7, 2024 and the duration of such process will be approximately 45 working days. On May 15, 2024, SGS received the Revised Notice from the MTA regarding the Re-assessment Result. The re-assessed amount of the tax penalty is approximately $80.0 million. In accordance with applicable Mongolian laws, SGS is entitled to file an appeal to the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result within a 30-day period from the date of receiving the Revised Notice. On June 12, 2024, following consultation with its independent tax consultant in Mongolia, SGS submitted an appeal letter to the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result, in accordance with applicable Mongolian laws. On January 10, 2025, SGS received the Resolution from the TDRC in response to the appeal letter sent by SGS to the TDRC on June 12, 2024, relating to the Re-assessment Result. As set forth in the Resolution, the TDRC has determined to reduce the re-assessed amount of tax penalty against SGS from approximately $80.0 million to approximately $26.5 million. In accordance with applicable Mongolian laws, SGS is entitled to file an appeal to the Administrative Court of First Instance regarding the Revised Re-assessment Result within a 30-day period from the date of receiving the Resolution. After careful consideration and consultation with the Company's independent tax consultant in Mongolia, the Company has determined not to pursue a further appeal of the Revised Re-assessment Result with the Administrative Court of First Instance. On March 19, 2025, SGS received correspondence from the Administrative Court of First Instance requesting supplemental information regarding a court proceeding initiated by the MTA Officials against the TDRC. Upon further enquiry, SGS obtained a copy of an order dated March 7, 2025 issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance regarding the Proposed Case. Based on preliminary advice from the Company's independent Mongolian legal counsel and tax consultants: (i) SGS was not named as a third party defendant to these proceedings; (ii) the TDRC's Revised Re-assessment Result remains legally enforceable unless formally overturned by the court; and (iii) SGS's acceptance of the TDRC's decision makes the ruling final under Mongolian tax law. On April 25, 2025, SGS obtained a copy of the Latest Court Order issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance refusing to accept the Proposed Case. According to the Latest Court Order, the Proposed Case was dismissed by the Administrative Court of First Instance. According to applicable Mongolian laws, the plaintiff is entitled to file an appeal to the appellate court, and the Company understood that the MTA Officials, as plaintiff in the Proposed Case, filed an appeal. On June 9, 2025, SGS obtained the Appellate Court Judgement issued by the Appellate Court. As per the Appellate Court Judgement, the Appellate Court upheld the court order issued by the Judge of the Administrative Court of First Instance on April 15, 2025. As a result, the claim brought by the MTA Officials against the TDRC in an attempt to dispute or overturn the previous decision made by the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result has been dismissed and rejected. According to applicable Mongolian law, the Appellate Court Judgement shall be final and is not subject to further appeal. In prior year, the Company recorded an additional tax and tax penalty in the amount of $45.5 million, which consists of a tax penalty payable of $26.5 million and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million. As a result of the Revised Re-assessment Result, the Company recorded a reversal of additional tax and tax penalty of $48.5 million in 2024. To date, the Company has paid the MTA an aggregate of $17.3 million in relation to the aforementioned tax penalty. The Company anticipates paying down the outstanding amount of the tax and tax penalty from cash generated from operations in the normal course. According to Mongolian tax law, the Mongolian tax authority has a legal authority to demand payment of the outstanding amount of the Revised Re-assessment Result from the Company at its discretion. Going concern considerations The Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis which assumes that the Company will continue to operate until at least June 30, 2026 and will be able to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of operations as they come due. However, in order to continue as a going concern, the Company must generate sufficient operating cash flows, secure additional capital or otherwise pursue a strategic restructuring, refinancing or other transactions to provide it with sufficient liquidity. Several adverse conditions and material uncertainties cast significant doubt upon the Company's ability to continue as a going concern and the going concern assumption used in the preparation of the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements. The Company had a deficiency in assets of $108.4 million as at June 30, 2025 as compared to a deficiency in assets of $49.8 million as at December 31, 2024 while the working capital deficiency (excess current liabilities over current assets) reached $148.0 million as at June 30, 2025 as compared to a working capital deficiency of $228.1 million as at December 31, 2024. Included in the working capital deficiency as at June 30, 2025 are significant obligations, represented by trade and other payables of $212.3 million and the additional tax and tax penalty of $28.2 million. The Company may not be able to settle all trade and other payables on a timely basis, and as a result any continuing postponement in settling of certain trade and other payables owed to suppliers and creditors may result in potential lawsuits and/or bankruptcy proceedings being filed against the Company. Except as disclosed elsewhere in this press release, no such lawsuits or proceedings were pending as at August 14, 2025. However, there can be no assurance that no such lawsuits or proceedings will be filed by the Company's creditors in the future and the Company's suppliers and contractors will continue to supply and provide services to the Company uninterrupted. There are significant uncertainties as to the outcomes of the above events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern and, therefore, the Company may be unable to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business. Should the use of the going concern basis in preparation of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements be determined to be not appropriate, adjustments would have to be made to write down the carrying amounts of the Company's assets to their realisable values, to provide for any further liabilities which might arise and to reclassify non-current assets and non-current liabilities as current assets and current liabilities, respectively. The effects of these adjustments have not been reflected in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements. If the Company is unable to continue as a going concern, it may be forced to seek relief under applicable bankruptcy and insolvency legislation. For the purpose of assessing the appropriateness of the use of the going concern basis to prepare the financial statements, management of the Company has prepared a cash flow projection covering a period of 12 months from June 30, 2025. The cash flow projection has considered the anticipated cash flows to be generated from the Company's business during the period under projection including cost saving measures. In particular, the Company has taken into account the following measures for improvement of the Company's liquidity and financial position, which include: (a) entering into the 2025 March Deferral Agreement on March 20, 2025 for a deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts; (b) communicating with vendors in agreeing repayment plans of the outstanding payable; and (c) obtaining an avenue of financial support from an affiliate of the Company's major shareholder for a maximum amount of $127.0 million (equivalent to RMB 900 million) during the period covered in the cash flow projection. Regarding these plans and measures, there is no guarantee that the suppliers would agree the settlement plan as communicated by the Company. Nevertheless, after considering the above, the directors of the Company believe that there will be sufficient financial resources to continue its operations and to meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due in the next 12 months from June 30, 2025 and therefore are satisfied that it is appropriate to prepare the condensed consolidated interim financial statements on a going concern basis. Significant uncertainties exist regarding the Company's management's ability to achieve its plans as described above. The continued operation of the Company as a going concern depends on a key factor: the utilisation of the financial support from an affiliate of the Company's major shareholder to settle payables, including the additional tax and tax penalty, in a timely manner. The outcome of this factor will have a significant impact on the Company's ability to continue operating as a going concern. It is crucial to closely monitor and address these uncertainties to ensure the Company's stability and long-term viability. Factors that impact the Company's liquidity are being closely monitored and include, but are not limited to, restrictions on the Company's ability to import its coal products for sale in China, Chinese economic growth, market prices of coal, production levels, operating cash costs, capital costs, exchange rates of currencies of countries where the Company operates and exploration and discretionary expenditures. As at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company was not subject to any externally imposed capital requirements. Convertible Debenture In November 2009, the Company entered into a financing agreement with China Investment Corporation (together with its wholly-owned subsidiaries and affiliates, "CIC") for $500 million in the form of a secured, convertible debenture bearing interest at 8.0% (6.4% payable semi-annually in cash and 1.6% payable annually in the Company's Common Shares) with a maximum term of 30 years. The Convertible Debenture is secured by a first ranking charge over the Company's assets, including shares of its material subsidiaries. The financing was used primarily to support the accelerated investment program in Mongolia and for working capital, repayment of debts, general and administrative expenses and other general corporate purposes. On March 29, 2010, the Company exercised its right to call for the conversion of up to $250.0 million of the Convertible Debenture into approximately 21.5 million shares at a conversion price of $11.64 (CA$11.88). Deferral Agreements On March 20, 2025, the Company and JDZF entered into the 2025 March Deferral Agreement pursuant to which JDZF agreed to grant the Company a deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts. The effectiveness of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement and the respective covenants, agreements and obligations of each party under the 2025 March Deferral Agreement are subject to the Company obtaining the requisite approval of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement from shareholders in accordance with the requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws and Rule 14.33 and Rule 14A.36 of the Listing Rules. The 2025 March Deferral Agreement was approved by the Company's disinterested shareholders at the AGM of shareholders convened on June 27, 2025. The principal terms of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement are as follows: Payment of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts will be deferred until the 2025 March Deferral Agreement Deferral Date. As consideration for the deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts which relate to the payment obligations arising from the Convertible Debenture, the Company agreed to pay JDZF a deferral fee equal to 6.4% per annum on the outstanding balance of such 2025 March Deferred Amounts, commencing on the date on which each such 2025 March Deferred Amounts would otherwise have been due and payable under the Convertible Debenture. As consideration for the deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts which relate to payment obligations arising from the Amended and Restated Cooperation Agreement, the Company agreed to pay JDZF a deferral fee equal to 1.5% per annum on the outstanding balance of such 2025 March Deferred Amounts commencing on the date on which each such 2025 March Deferred Amounts would otherwise have been due and payable under the Amended and Restated Cooperation Agreement. The 2025 March Deferral Agreement does not contemplate a fixed repayment schedule for the 2025 March Deferred Amounts or related deferral fees. Instead, the 2025 March Deferral Agreement requires the Company to use its best efforts to pay the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees due and payable under the 2025 March Deferral Agreement to JDZF. During the period beginning as of the effective date of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement and ending as of the 2025 March Deferral Agreement Deferral Date, the Company will provide JDZF with monthly updates of its financial status and business operations, and the Company and JDZF will on a monthly basis discuss and assess in good faith the amount (if any) of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees that the Company may be able to repay to JDZF, having regard to the working capital requirements of the Company's operations and business at such time and with the view of ensuring that the Company's operations and business would not be materially prejudiced as a result of any repayment. If at any time before the 2025 March Deferred Amounts and related deferral fees are fully repaid, the Company proposes to appoint, replace or terminate one or more of its chief executive officer, its chief financial officer or any other senior executive(s) in charge of its principal business function or its principal subsidiary, the Company will first consult with, and obtain written consent (such consent shall not be unreasonably withheld) from JDZF prior to effecting such appointment, replacement or termination. Ovoot Tolgoi Mine Impairment Analysis The Company determined that an indicator of impairment existed for its Ovoot Tolgoi Mine cash generating unit as at June 30, 2025. The impairment indicator was the uncertainty of future coal price in China. Since the recoverable amount was higher than carrying value of the Ovoot Tolgoi Mine cash generating unit, there was no impairment of non-financial asset recognised during the six months ended June 30, 2025. REGULATORY ISSUES AND CONTINGENCIES Lawsuit In January 2014, Siskinds LLP, a Canadian law firm, filed a class action (the "Class Action") against the Company, certain of its former senior officers and directors, and its former auditors (the "Former Auditors"), in the Ontario Court in relation to the Company's restatement of certain financial statements previously disclosed in the Company's public fillings (the "Restatement"). To commence and proceed with the Class Action, the plaintiff was required to seek leave of the Court under the Ontario Securities Act ("Leave Motion") and certify the action as a class proceeding under the Ontario Class Proceedings Act. The Ontario Court rendered its decision on the Leave Motion on November 5, 2015, dismissing the action against the former senior officers and directors and allowing the action to proceed against the Company in respect of alleged misrepresentation affecting trades in the secondary market for the Company's securities arising from the Restatement. The action against the Former Auditors was settled by the plaintiff on the eve of the Leave Motion. Both the plaintiff and the Company appealed the Leave Motion decision to the Ontario Court of Appeal. On September 18, 2017, the Ontario Court of Appeal dismissed the Company's appeal of the Leave Motion to permit the plaintiff to commence and proceed with the Class Action. Concurrently, the Ontario Court of Appeal granted leave for the plaintiff to proceed with their action against the former senior officers and directors in relation to the Restatement. The Company filed an application for leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada in November 2017, but the leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada was dismissed in June 2018. In December 2018, the parties agreed to a consent Certification Order, whereby the action against the former senior officers and directors was withdrawn and the Class Action would only proceed against the Company, creating the class plaintiffs ("Class Plaintiffs") and permitting the Class Plaintiffs to proceed with the Class Action against only the Company. Counsel for the plaintiffs and defendant have: (i) completed document production and oral examinations for discovery; (ii) served expert reports on liability and damages; and (iii) designed a mediation process and finalized, with the participation of the relevant Company's insurers, the mediation under the guidance of former Chief Justice of Ontario George Strathy, which mediation was held and completed on August 11, 2025 (the "Mediation"). As a result of the Mediation, the Class Plaintiffs and the Company have conditionally settled (the "Settlement") the Class Action for CA$6.8 million, including all liability and class counsel fees, notice and administrative costs, fees, costs and expenses related to the litigation and the settlement (the "Settlement Payments"). The Settlement Payments are the obligation of the Company's insurers as of January 2014. The Settlement is conditional upon the approval of a judge of the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario (the "Court"), expected to be presented to the Court by the Class Plaintiffs with the support of the Company on or before December 31, 2025. The Company continues to believe that it has a strong defence on the merits. No provision for this matter is required as at June 30, 2025. Special Needs Territory in Umnugobi On February 13, 2015, the Soumber mining licenses (MV-016869, MV-020436 and MV-020451) (the "License Areas") were included into a special protected area (to be further referred as Special Needs Territory, the "SNT") newly set up by the Umnugobi Aimag's Civil Representatives Khural (the "CRKh") to establish a strict regime on the protection of natural environment and prohibit mining activities in the territory of the SNT. On July 8, 2015, SGS and the chairman of the CRKh, in his capacity as the respondent's representative, reached an agreement (the "Amicable Resolution Agreement") to exclude the License Areas from the territory of the SNT in full, subject to confirmation of the Amicable Resolution Agreement by the session of the CRKh. The parties formally submitted the Amicable Resolution Agreement to the appointed judge of the 12th Court for Administrative Cases of First Instance (the "Administrative Court") for her approval and requested a dismissal of the case in accordance with the Law of Mongolia on Administrative Court Procedure. On July 10, 2015, the judge issued her order approving the Amicable Resolution Agreement and dismissing the case, while reaffirming the obligation of CRKh to take necessary actions at its next session to exclude the License Areas from the SNT and register the new map of the SNT with the relevant authorities. Mining activities at the Soumber property cannot proceed unless and until the Company obtains a court order restoring the Soumber mining licenses and until the License Areas are removed from the SNT. On July 24, 2021, SGS was notified by the Implementing Agency of Mongolian Government that the license area covered by two mining licenses (MV-016869 and MV-020451) are no longer overlapping with the SNT. The Company will continue to work with the Mongolian authorities regarding the license area covered by the mining license (MV-020436). On December 7, 2023, the Citizen representative Khural of Gurvantes soum held a meeting and passed a resolution (the "Gurvantes Soum Resolution") claiming that the License Areas were part of local special needs protection area. A request letter was sent to Mineral Resources and Petroleum Authority of Mongolia ("MRPAM") on January 4, 2024. On January 11, 2024, MRPAM issued an official letter to the Citizen representative Khural of Gurvantes soum and concluded that request was not reasonable and the License Areas will not be registered on the Cadastre mapping system. On June 18, 2024, the Court of First Instance in Umnugobi Province reviewed the above subject matter in which SGS is the plaintiff and Citizen's Representative Meetings of Gurvantes soum is the defendant. The Court of First Instance determined that the claims made by Citizen's Representative Meetings of Gurvantes soum relating to the License Areas as set forth in the Gurvantes Soum Resolution were invalid. Citizen's Representative Meetings of Gurvantes soum has since applied to the Court of Appeals for an appeal of the Court of First Instance's decision. On September 12, 2024, the Court of Appeals reviewed the appeal made by Citizen's Representative Meetings of Gurvantes soum and determined that the appeal was invalid. Citizen's Representative Meetings of Gurvantes soum did not apply to the Supreme Court of Mongolia for an appeal of the Court of Appeals' decision upon the expiry of the application deadline. As a result, the decision made by the Court of Appeals is final and conclusive. Tax Legislation Mongolian tax, currency and customs legislation is subject to varying interpretation, and changes which can occur frequently. Management's interpretation of such legislation as applied to the transactions and activity of the Company may be challenged by the relevant authorities. The MTA may take a more assertive position in their interpretation of the legislation and assessments, and it is possible that transactions and activities that have not been challenged in the past may be challenged by tax authorities. As a result, significant additional taxes, penalties and interest may be assessed. Fiscal periods remain open to review by the authorities in respect of taxes for five calendar years preceding the year of review. Under certain circumstances reviews may cover longer periods. The Mongolian tax legislation does not provide definitive guidance in certain areas, specifically in areas such as VAT, withholding tax, corporate income tax, personal income tax, transfer pricing and other areas. From time to time, the Company adopts interpretations of such uncertain areas that reduce the overall tax rate of the Company. As noted above, such tax positions may come under heightened scrutiny as a result of recent developments in administrative and court practices. The impact of any challenge by the tax authorities cannot be reliably estimated; however, it may be significant to the financial position and/or the overall operations of the entity. Management believes that its interpretation of relevant legislation is appropriate and the Company's positions related to tax and other legislation will be sustained. However, the Company may be impacted if such unfavourable event occurs. Management regularly performs re-assessment of tax risk and its position may change in the future as a result of the change in conditions that cannot be anticipated with sufficient certainty at present. On March 19, 2025, SGS received correspondence from the Administrative Court of First Instance requesting supplemental information regarding a court proceeding initiated by the MTA Officials against the TDRC. Upon further enquiry, SGS obtained a copy of an order dated March 7, 2025 issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance regarding the Proposed Case. Based on preliminary advice from the Company's independent Mongolian legal counsel and tax consultants: (i) SGS was not named as a third party defendant to these proceedings; (ii) the TDRC's Revised Re-assessment Result remains legally enforceable unless formally overturned by the court; and (iii) SGS's acceptance of the TDRC's decision makes the ruling final under Mongolian tax law. On April 25, 2025, SGS obtained a copy of the Latest Court Order issued by the Administrative Court of First Instance refusing to accept the Proposed Case. According to the Latest Court Order, the Proposed Case was dismissed by the Administrative Court of First Instance. According to applicable Mongolian laws, the plaintiff is entitled to file an appeal to the appellate court, and the Company understood that the MTA Officials, as plaintiff in the Proposed Case, filed an appeal. On June 9, 2025, SGS obtained the Appellate Court Judgement issued by the Appellate Court. As per the Appellate Court Judgement, the Appellate Court upheld the court order issued by the Judge of the Administrative Court of First Instance on April 15, 2025. As a result, the claim brought by the MTA Officials against the TDRC in an attempt to dispute or overturn the previous decision made by the TDRC regarding the Re-assessment Result has been dismissed and rejected. According to applicable Mongolian law, the Appellate Court Judgement shall be final and is not subject to further appeal. In prior year, the Company has recorded an additional tax and tax penalty in the amount of $45.5 million, which consists of a tax penalty payable of $26.5 million and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million. As a result of the Revised Re-assessment Result, the Company recorded a reversal of additional tax and tax penalty of $48.5 million in 2024. To date, the Company has paid the MTA an aggregate of $17.3 million in relation to the aforementioned tax penalty, as more particularly detailed under section "Liquidity and Capital Resources" of this press release under the heading entitled "Additional Tax and Tax Penalty Imposed by the MTA". Management will continue to assess whether any subsequent event may impact the amount of the additional tax and tax penalty, in which case an adjustment would be recognised in profit or loss and the carrying amount of the tax liabilities shall be adjusted. TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE On August 2, 2011, the State Property Committee of Mongolia awarded the tender to construct a paved highway from the Ovoot Tolgoi Mine to the Shivee Khuren Border Crossing (the "Paved Highway") to consortium partners NTB LLC and SGS (together referred to as "RDCC LLC") with an exclusive right of ownership of the Paved Highway for 30 years. The Company has an indirect 40% interest in RDCC LLC through its Mongolian subsidiary SGS. The toll rate is MNT 1,800 per tonne. The Paved Highway has a carrying capacity in excess of 20 million tonnes of coal per year. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, RDCC LLC recognised toll fee revenue of $4.1 million (2024: $3.6 million) and $6.5 million (2024: $6.3 million), respectively. PLEDGE OF ASSETS As at June 30, 2025, most of the Company's mobile equipment and other operating equipment with carrying value of $12.6 million (December 31, 2024: $11.4 million) were pledged as security of Convertible Debenture. PURCHASE, SALE OR REDEMPTION OF LISTED SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY Neither the Company, nor any of its subsidiaries purchased, sold or redeemed any of the Company's listed securities (including sale of treasury shares within the meaning of the Listing Rules) during the six month ended June 30, 2025. The Company did not hold any treasury shares as at June 30, 2025. COMPLIANCE WITH CORPORATE GOVERNANCE The Company has, throughout the six months ended June 30, 2025, applied the principles and complied with the requirements of its corporate governance practices as defined by the Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") and all applicable statutory, regulatory and stock exchange listings standards, which include the code provisions set out in the Corporate Governance Code (the "Corporate Governance Code") contained in Appendix C1 to the Listing Rules, except for the following: Pursuant to Section C.2 under Part 2 of the Corporate Governance Code, the chairman of the Board (the "Chairman") should be responsible for the overall management of the Board. The Company has not had a Chairman since November 2017. The Board has appointed an Independent Lead Director, who is fulfilling the duties of the Chairman; Pursuant to code provision C.2.7 of the Corporate Governance Code, the Chairman should at least annually hold meetings with the non-executive directors (including independent non-executive directors) without the executive directors present. During the period of January 1, 2025 to June 30, 2025, there were two meetings between the Independent Lead Director, who is fulfilling the duties of the Chairman, and the non-executive directors without the presence of the executive directors. The opportunity for such communication channel is offered at the end of each Board meeting; Pursuant to code provision F.1.3 under Part 2 of the Corporate Governance Code, the Chairman of the Board should attend the annual general meeting. Mr. Yingbin Ian He, an independent non-executive director and the Lead Director, attended and acted as Chairman of the Company's annual general meeting held on June 27, 2025 (Hong Kong) to ensure effective communication with shareholders of the Company. SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS BY DIRECTORS The Company has adopted policies regarding directors' securities transactions in its Corporate Disclosure, Confidentiality and Securities Trading Policy that have terms that are no less exacting than those set out in the Model Code for Securities Transactions by Directors of Listed Issuers contained in Appendix C3 to the Listing Rules ("Model Code"). In response to a specific enquiry made by the Company on each of the directors, all directors confirmed that they had complied with the required standards as set out in the Model Code and the Company's Corporate Disclosure, Confidentiality and Securities Trading Policy throughout the six months ended June 30, 2025. Furthermore, if a Director (a) enters into a transaction involving securities of the Company or, for any other reason, the direct or indirect beneficial ownership of, or control or direction over, securities of the Company changes from that shown or required to be shown in the latest insider report filed by the Director, or (b) enters into a transaction involving a related financial instrument, the Director must, within the prescribed period, file (i) an insider report in the required form on the System for Electronic Disclosure by Insiders website (www.sedi.ca) operated by the Canadian Securities Administrators and (ii) a Disclosure of Interest Form with the HKEX. A "related financial instrument" is defined as: (a) an instrument, agreement, security or exchange contract, the value, market price or payment obligations of which is/are derived from, referenced to or based on the value, market price or payment obligations of a security, or (b) any other instrument, agreement or understanding that affects, directly or indirectly, a person's economic interest in respect of a security or an exchange contract. SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS Except for investments in joint ventures and associates, the Company had no significant investments held as at June 30, 2025. MATERIAL ACQUISITION AND DISPOSAL OF SUBSIDIARIES, JOINT VENTURES AND ASSOCIATES The Company did not have any material acquisition or disposal of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates during the six months ended June 30, 2025. FUTURE PLANS FOR MATERIAL INVESTMENTS OR CAPITAL ASSETS There was no specific plan for material investments or capital assets as at June 30, 2025. OUTLOOK Global geopolitical landscape has been evolving continuously. The recent trade tensions between China and the United States are expected to reshape the international coal market. As a countermeasure against the new US tariffs on Chinese imports, Chinese government imposed additional custom duties on various products, including US coal, in return. The surging US import price and escalating uncertainty on trade between both countries may lead to a shift in import sources. Chinese coal users may seek to increase imports from other countries like Australia, Russia, Canada and Mongolia, which are more stable and reliable sources of coal, to meet its demand. Strengthening collaboration between the Chinese and Mongolian governments continues to enhance their trade ties, particularly in energy and resources sectors. Initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, such as roads and railways, will facilitate smoother logistics for coal exports from Mongolia to China. This provides favourable conditions for Mongolia to capture the growing demand from Chinese markets. However, the recent challenges faced by China's property market and infrastructure investment, have resulted in an overall decline in its steel demand and production, which has led to a corresponding reduction in coking coal demand. The Company remains cautiously optimistic regarding the Chinese coal market, as coal is still considered to be the primary energy source which China will continue to rely on in the foreseeable future. Coal supply and coal import in China are expected to be limited due to increasingly stringent requirements relating to environmental protection and safety production, which may result in volatile coal prices in China. The Company will continue to monitor and react proactively to the dynamic market. With the continuous assistance and support from JDZF, the Company will focus on expanding its market reach and customer base in China to improve the profit margin earned on its coal products. The Company has been increasing the scale of its mining operations since 2023, as well as implementing various coal processing methods, including screening, wet washing and dry coal processing, which have resulted in enhanced production volumes and growth of coal export volumes into China in 2024. In 2025, the Company will continue to ramp up its mining operations and coal processing capacity to seize the opportunity in expanding its market share. In the medium term, the Company will continue to adopt various strategies to enhance its product mix in order to maximise revenue, expand its customer base and sales network, improve logistics, optimise its operational cost structure and, most importantly, operate in a safe and socially responsible manner. The Company's objectives for the medium term are as follows: Enhance product mix - The Company will focus on improving the product mix by: (i) improving mining operations; (ii) utilising the Company's dry and wet coal processing plants; and (iii) trading and blending different types of coal to produce blended coal products that are economical to the Company. Expand market reach and customer base - The Company will endeavor to increase sales volume and sales price by: (i) expanding its sales network and diversifying its customer base; (ii) increasing its coal logistics capacity to resolve the bottleneck in the distribution channel; and (iii) setting and adjusting the sales price based on a more market-oriented approach in order to maximise profit while maintaining sustainable long-term business relationships with customers. Increase production and optimise cost structure - The Company will aim to increase coal production volume to take advantage of economies of scale. The Company will also focus on reducing its production costs and optimising its cost structure through engaging sizable third-party contract mining companies to enhance its operation efficiency, strengthening procurement management, ongoing training and productivity enhancement. Operate in a safe and socially responsible manner - The Company will continue to maintain the highest standards in health, safety and environmental performance and operate in a corporate socially responsible manner. In the long term, the Company will continue to focus on creating and maximising shareholders value by leveraging its key competitive strengths, including: Strategic location - The Ovoot Tolgoi Mine is located approximately 40km from China, which represents the Company's main coal market. The Company has an infrastructure advantage, being approximately 50km from a major Chinese coal distribution terminal with rail connections to key coal markets in China. A large reserves base- The Ovoot Tolgoi Deposit has mineral reserves of at least 82.3 million tonnes. Several growth options - The Company has several growth options including the Soumber Deposit and Zag Suuj Deposit, located approximately 20km east and approximately 150km east of the Ovoot Tolgoi Mine, respectively. Bridge between China and Mongolia - The Company is well-positioned to capture the resulting business opportunities between China and Mongolia, and have a strong operational record for the past decade in Mongolia. The Company will seek assistance and support from its two largest shareholders, which are both experienced coal mining enterprises in China. NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES Cash Costs The Company uses cash costs to describe its cash production and associated cash costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present locations and conditions. Cash costs incorporate all production costs, which include direct and indirect costs of production, with the exception of idled mine asset costs and non-cash expenses which are excluded. Non-cash expenses include share-based compensation expense, impairment of coal stockpile inventories, depreciation and depletion of property, plant and equipment and mineral properties. The Company uses this performance measure to monitor its operating cash costs internally and believes this measure provides investors and analysts with useful information about the Company's underlying cash costs of operations. The Company believes that conventional measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards do not fully illustrate the ability of its mining operations to generate cash flows. The Company reports cash costs on a sales basis. This performance measure is commonly utilised in the mining industry. SUMMARISED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME INFORMATION (Expressed in thousands of USD, except for per share amounts) SUMMARISED FINANCIAL POSITION INFORMATION (Expressed in thousands of USD) SUMMARISED CASH FLOWS INFORMATION (Expressed in thousands of USD) SELECTED INFORMATION FROM THE NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Additional information required by the HKEX and not disclosed elsewhere in this press release is as follows. All amounts are expressed in thousands of USD and shares in thousands, unless otherwise indicated. 1. BASIS OF PREPARATION 1.1 Corporate information and going concern The Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis which assumes that the Company will continue to operate until at least June 30, 2026 and will be able to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of operations as they come due. However, in order to continue as a going concern, the Company must generate sufficient operating cash flows, secure additional capital or otherwise pursue a strategic restructuring, refinancing or other transactions to provide it with sufficient liquidity. Several adverse conditions and material uncertainties cast significant doubt upon the Company's ability to continue as a going concern and the going concern assumption used in the preparation of the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements. The Company had a deficiency in assets of $108,406 as at June 30, 2025 as compared to a deficiency in assets of $49,843 as at December 31, 2024 while the working capital deficiency (excess current liabilities over current assets) reached $147,962 as at June 30, 2025 compared to a working capital deficiency of $228,134 as at December 31, 2024. Included in the working capital deficiency as at June 30, 2025 are significant obligations, represented by trade and other payables of $212,289 and an additional tax and tax penalty of $28,184. The Company may not be able to settle all trade and other payables on a timely basis, and as a result any continuing postponement in settling of certain trade and other payables owed to suppliers and creditors may result in potential lawsuits and/or bankruptcy proceedings being filed against the Company. Except as disclosed elsewhere in this press release, no such lawsuits or proceedings were pending as at August 14, 2025. However, there can be no assurance that no such lawsuits or proceedings will be filed by the Company's creditors in the future and the Company's suppliers and contractors will continue to supply and provide services to the Company uninterrupted. There are significant uncertainties as to the outcomes of the above events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern and, therefore, the Company may be unable to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business. Should the use of the going concern basis in preparation of the condensed consolidated interim financial statements be determined to be not appropriate, adjustments would have to be made to write down the carrying amounts of the Company's assets to their realisable values, to provide for any further liabilities which might arise and to reclassify non-current assets and non-current liabilities as current assets and current liabilities, respectively. The effects of these adjustments have not been reflected in the condensed consolidated interim financial statements. If the Company is unable to continue as a going concern, it may be forced to seek relief under applicable bankruptcy and insolvency legislation. For the purpose of assessing the appropriateness of the use of the going concern basis to prepare the financial statements, management of the Company has prepared a cash flow projection covering a period of 12 months from June 30, 2025. The cash flow projection has considered the anticipated cash flows to be generated from the Company's business during the period under projection including cost saving measures. In particular, the Company has taken into account the following measures for improvement of the Company's liquidity and financial position, which include: (a) entering into the 2025 March Deferral Agreement on March 20, 2025 for a deferral of the 2025 March Deferred Amounts; (b) communicating with vendors in agreeing repayment plans of the outstanding payable; and (c) obtaining an avenue of financial support from an affiliate of the Company's major shareholder for a maximum amount of $127,000 (equivalent to RMB 900 million) during the period covered in the cash flow projection. Regarding these plans and measures, there is no guarantee that the suppliers would agree the settlement plan as communicated by the Company. Nevertheless, after considering the above, the directors of the Company believe that there will be sufficient financial resources to continue its operations and to meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due in the next 12 months from June 30, 2025 and therefore are satisfied that it is appropriate to prepare the condensed consolidated interim financial statements on a going concern basis. Significant uncertainties exist regarding the Company's management's ability to achieve its plans as described above. The continued operation of the Company as a going concern depends on a key factor: the utilisation of the financial support from an affiliate of the Company's major shareholder to settle payables, including the tax penalty payable and provision for additional late tax penalty, in a timely manner. The outcome of this factor will have a significant impact on the Company's ability to continue operating as a going concern. It is crucial to closely monitor and address these uncertainties to ensure the Company's stability and long-term viability. Factors that impact the Company's liquidity are being closely monitored and include, but are not limited to, restrictions on the Company's ability to import its coal products for sale in China, Chinese economic growth, market prices of coal, production levels, operating cash costs, capital costs, exchange rates of currencies of countries where the Company operates and exploration and discretionary expenditures. As at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the Company was not subject to any externally imposed capital requirements. 1.2 Statement of compliance These condensed consolidated interim financial statements, including comparatives, have been prepared in accordance with International Accounting Standard 34 - "Interim Financial Reporting" using accounting policies in compliance with the IFRS Accounting Standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and Interpretations of the IFRS Interpretations Committee. The condensed consolidated interim financial statements of the Company for the six months ended June 30, 2025 were approved and authorised for issue by the Board on August 14, 2025. 1.3 Basis of presentation These condensed consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared using accounting policies and methods of computation consistent with those applied in the Company's December 31, 2024 consolidated annual financial statements. These condensed consolidated interim financial statements do not include all the information and note disclosures required by IFRS for annual financial statements and therefore should be read in conjunction with the Company's annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. 1.4 Adoption of new and revised standards and interpretations There have been no other new IFRSs or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective that would be expected to have a material impact on the Company, except those disclosed in the Company's annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. 2. SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company's Chief Executive Officer (chief operating decision maker) reviews the financial information in order to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and to assess its performance. No operating segment identified by the Board has been aggregated in arriving at the reporting segments of the Company. For management's purpose, the Company has only one reportable operating segment, which is the coal division. The division is principally engaged in coal mining, development and exploration in Mongolia, and logistics and trading of coal in Mongolia and China for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024. The Company's resources are integrated and as a result, no discrete operating segment financial information is available. Since this is the only reportable and operating segment of the Company, no further analysis thereof is presented. All the revenue of the Company is generated from trading of coal for the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024. 2.1 Information about major customers During the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, the Coal Division had 70 and 50 active customers, respectively. 2 and 2 customers with respective revenue contributed over 10% of the total revenue during the six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024, with the largest customer accounting for 20% of revenue (June 30, 2024: 15%) and the second largest customer accounting for 12% of revenue (June 30, 2024: 12%). 2.2 Geographical information The operations of the Company are primarily located in Mongolia, Hong Kong and China. The revenue information above is based on the locations of the customers. 3. REVENUE Revenue represents the value of goods sold which arises from the trading of coal. The Company recognises all revenue from the trading of coal at a point in time when the customer obtains control of the goods or services. 4. EXPENSES BY NATURE The Company's expenses by nature are summarised as follows: 5. COST OF SALES The Company's cost of sales consists of the following amounts: Cost of sales related to idled mine assets for the six months ended June 30, 2025 includes depreciation expense of $562 (June 30, 2024: $110). The depreciation expense relates to the Company's idled plant and equipment. Cost of inventories recognised as expense in cost of sales for the three months ended June 30, 2025 totaled $119,692 (June 30, 2024: $44,596). Cost of inventories recognised as expense in cost of sales for the six months ended June 30, 2025 totaled $221,516 (June 30, 2024: $68,767). 6. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES, NET The Company's other operating expenses, net consist of the following amounts: 7. FINANCE COSTS AND INCOME The Company's finance costs consist of the following amounts: The Company's finance income consists of the following amounts: 8. TAXES The Canadian statutory tax rate was 27% (2024: 27%). The Company's tax expense is as follows: 9. EARNINGS/(LOSS) PER SHARE The calculation of basic and diluted earnings/(loss) per share is based on the following data: Potentially dilutive items not included in the calculation of diluted loss per share for the period ended June 30, 2025 include the underlying shares comprised in the convertible debenture and stock options that were anti-dilutive. 10. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Pursuant to relevant regulations in Mainland China, the Company is required to place certain amounts at designated bank accounts as guaranteed deposits for issuance of guarantee letter as requested by China Customs. The Company's cash is denominated in the following currencies: Exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates The sensitivity of the Company's profit/(loss) before tax due to changes in the carrying values of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies is as follows. A positive number indicates an increase in profit before tax or a decrease in loss before tax, whereas a negative number indicates an increase in loss before tax or a decrease in profit before tax. 11. TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES The Company's trade and other receivables consist of the following amounts: The aging of the Company's trade and other receivables, based on invoice date and net of provisions, is as follows: Overdue balances are reviewed regularly by senior management. The Company does not hold any collateral or other credit enhancements over its trade and other receivable balances. The Company has determined that the loss allowance on its trade and other receivables was $21,876 as at June 30, 2025 (December 31, 2024: $22,348), based upon an expected loss rate of 10% for trade and other receivables 90 days past due and 100% for trade and other receivables 180 days past due. The closing allowances for trade and other receivables as at June 30, 2025 reconcile to the opening loss allowances as follows: 12. TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES Trade and other payables of the Company primarily consist of amounts outstanding for trade purchases relating to coal mining, development and exploration activities and mining royalties payable. The usual credit period taken for trade purchases is between 30 to 90 days. The aging of the Company's trade and other payables, based on invoice date, is as follows: 13. ACCUMULATED DEFICIT AND DIVIDENDS At June 30, 2025, the Company has accumulated a deficit of $1,198,236 (December 31, 2024: $1,149,222). No dividends have been paid or declared by the Company since inception. REVIEW OF INTERIM RESULTS The condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the Company for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, which are unaudited but have been reviewed by the audit committee of the Company. The Company's results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, are contained in the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, available on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca and the Company's website at www.southgobi.com . ABOUT SOUTHGOBI SouthGobi, listed on the HKEX and TSX-V, owns and operates its ?agship Ovoot Tolgoi coal mine in Mongolia. It also holds the mining licenses of its other metallurgical and thermal coal deposits in South Gobi Region of Mongolia. SouthGobi produces and sells coal to customers in China. Contact: Investor Relations Email: info@southgobi.com Mr. Ruibin Xu Chief Executive Officer Office: +852 2156 1438 (Hong Kong) +1 604 762 6783 (Canada) Website: www.southgobi.com Except for statements of fact relating to the Company, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "could", "should", "seek", "likely", "estimate" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements relate to management's future outlook and anticipated events or results and are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the time the statements are made. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the Company continuing as a going concern and its ability to realise its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of operations as they become due; adjustments to the amounts and classifications of assets and liabilities in the Company's condensed consolidated interim financial statements and the impact thereof; the Company's expectations of sufficient liquidity and capital resources to meet its ongoing obligations and future contractual commitments, including the Company's ability to settle its trade payables, to secure additional funding and to meet its obligations under each of the Convertible Debenture, and the 2025 March Deferral Agreement as the same become due, the Company's ability to settle the tax penalty payable of $26.5 million imposed by the MTA and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million; the Company's discussions with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government in relation to determining the Mongolian state's ownership interest in SGS; the Company's anticipated financing needs, operational and development plans and future production levels, including ramp up of the Company's mining operations and capacity in 2025; the results and impact of the Ontario class action (as described under section "Regulatory Issues and Contingencies" of this press release under the heading entitled "Lawsuit"); the estimates and assumptions included in the Company's impairment analysis and the possible impact of changes thereof; the construction and operation of the Dry Coal Separation System at the Company's Ovoot Tolgoi Mine; the agreement with Ejin Jinda and the payments thereunder (as described under section "Regulatory Issues and Contingencies" of this press release under the heading entitled "Toll Wash Plant Agreement with Ejin Jinda"); the ability of the Company to enhance the operational efficiency and output throughput of the washing facilities at Ovoot Tolgoi; the ability of the Company to enhance the product value by conducting coal processing and coal washing; the impact of the Company's activities on the environment and actions taken for the purpose of mitigation of potential environmental impacts and planned focus on health, safety and environmental performance; the future demand for coal in China; future trends in the Chinese coal industry; the Company's outlook and objectives for 2025 and beyond (as more particularly described under "Outlook" of this press release); and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking information is based on certain factors and assumptions described below and elsewhere in this press release, including, among other things: the current mine plan for the Ovoot Tolgoi mine; mining, production, construction and exploration activities at the Company's mineral properties; the costs relating to anticipated capital expenditures; the capacity and future toll rate of the paved highway; plans for the progress of mining license application processes; mining methods; the Company's anticipated business activities, planned expenditures and corporate strategies; management's business outlook, including the outlook for 2025 and beyond; currency exchange rates; operating, labour and fuel costs; the ability of the Company to raise additional financing; negotiating a constructive understanding and agreement with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government; the anticipated royalties payable under Mongolia's royalty regime; the ability of the Company to settle the tax penalty payable of $26.5 million imposed by the MTA and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million (as described under section "Significant Events and Highlights" of this press release under the heading entitled "Additional Tax and Tax Penalty Imposed by the MTA"); the future coal market conditions in China and the related impact on the Company's margins and liquidity; the anticipated demand for the Company's coal products; future coal prices, and the level of worldwide coal production. While the Company considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on the information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: the uncertain nature of mining activities, actual capital and operating costs exceeding management's estimates; variations in mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; the possible impacts of changes in mine life, useful life or depreciation rates on depreciation expenses; risks associated with, or changes to regulatory requirements (including environmental regulations) and the ability to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals; the potential expansion of the list of licenses published by the Government of Mongolia covering areas in which exploration and mining are purportedly prohibited on certain of the Company's mining licenses; the Government of Mongolia designating any one or more of the Company's mineral projects in Mongolia as a Mineral Deposit of Strategic Importance (as described under section "Significant Events and Highlights" of this press release under the heading entitled "Notice from Mongolian Government Plenipotentiary and designation of Company's mining deposits as mineral deposits of strategic importance"); the Company's ability to successfully negotiate a constructive understanding and agreement with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government; the risk that the Company is unable to successfully settle the tax penalty payable of $26.5 million imposed by the MTA and a provision for additional late tax penalty of $19.0 million (as described under section "Significant Events and Highlights" of this press release under the heading entitled "Additional Tax and Tax Penalty Imposed by the MTA"); possible impact of changes to the inputs to the valuation model used to value the embedded derivatives in the Convertible Debenture; the risk of the Company or its subsidiaries default under its existing debt obligations, including the Convertible Debenture and the 2025 March Deferral Agreement; the impact of amendments to, or the application of, the laws of Mongolia, China and other countries in which the Company carries on business; modifications to existing practices so as to comply with any future permit conditions that may be imposed by regulators; delays in obtaining approvals and lease renewals; the risk of fluctuations in coal prices and changes in China and world economic conditions; the outcome of the Class Action (as described under section "Regulatory Issues and Contingencies" of this press release under the heading entitled "Lawsuit") and any damages payable by the Company as a result; customer credit risk; cash flow and liquidity risks; risks relating to the Company's decision to suspend activities relating to the development of the Ceke Logistics Park project, including the risk that its investment partner may initiate legal action against the Company for failing to comply with the underlying agreements governing project development; risks relating to the ability of the Company to enhance the operational efficiency and the output throughput of the washing facilities at Ovoot Tolgoi and risks relating to the Company's ability to raise additional financing and to continue as a going concern. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements. Due to assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including the assumptions, risks and uncertainties identified above and elsewhere in this press release, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company uses forward-looking statements because it believes such statements provide useful information with respect to the currently expected future operations and financial performance of the Company, and cautions readers that the information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release; they should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The English text of this press release shall prevail over the Chinese text in case of inconsistencies. 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. SOURCE: SouthGobi Resources Ltd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/southgobi-announces-second-quarter-2025-unaudited-financial-and-operating-results-1061020 DENVER, CO / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / SRH Total Return Fund, Inc. (NYSE:STEW) (the "Fund") announced the declaration of a quarterly distribution of $0.1650 per share to occur in October 2025. This distribution is being paid as part of the Fund's managed distribution program under which the Fund intends to make per share distributions of $0.1650 per quarter or approximately $0.66 per year. As of market close on August 11, 2025, the distribution (on an annualized basis) amounts to approximately 3.75% of the Fund's market price and 2.99% of its net asset value ("NAV"). Due to the current discount of the Fund's market price to its per share NAV and the fact that distributions are made in cash (i.e., at NAV), if Fund shares continue to trade at a discount at the time of this distribution, then it will be accretive to the Fund's market-price-based return. The July 2025 quarterly distribution will be payable in cash to stockholders of record per the following critical dates: Pay Date Record Date Ex-Dividend Date Amount Per Share October 31, 2025 October 24, 2025 October 24, 2025 $0.165 As previously announced, the Board of Directors instituted a managed distribution program in accordance with its Section 19(b) exemptive order in November 2015. In adopting the program, the Fund seeks to provide a regular quarterly distribution to its common stockholders which is not dependent on the amount of income earned or capital gains realized by the Fund. Investors should not make any conclusions about the Fund's investment performance from the amount of the Fund's distributions or the Fund's distribution policy. With each distribution that does not consist solely of net investment income, the Fund will issue a notice to shareholders and an accompanying press release that will provide detailed information regarding the amount and composition of the distribution and other related information. The amounts and sources of distributions reported in the notice to shareholders are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon the Fund's investment experience during its full fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. The Fund will send shareholders a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year that will tell them how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes. _______________ The Fund SRH Total Return Fund, Inc. is a non-diversified closed-end investment company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "STEW". As of August 11, 2025, the Fund's NAV was $22.06 per share and the closing market price was $17.61 (a 20.17% discount to NAV). For more information on the Fund, please visit the Fund's webpage at www.srhtotalreturnfund.com. The Fund is a closed-end fund and does not continuously issue stock for sale as open-end mutual funds do. The Fund now trades in the secondary market. Investors wishing to buy or sell stock need to place orders through an intermediary or broker. The share price of a closed-end fund is based on the market value. Paralel Advisors LLC Paralel Advisors LLC serves as the investment advisor to the SRH Total Return Fund. Together with our parent company, Paralel Technologies LLC, we develop technology-based solutions to better serve investors. SRH Advisors, LLC SRH Advisors, LLC is an investment adviser registered with the SEC based out of Kansas. More information about SRH is available at www.srhtotalreturnfund.com as well as https://srhadvisorsllc.com/. NOT FDIC INSURED | May Lose Value | No Bank Guarantee Contact info: Website: https://srhtotalreturnfund.com/ Email: stewclientinquiries@paralel.com SOURCE: SRH Total Return Fund, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/closed-end-funds-and-trusts/srh-total-return-fund-inc.-declares-quarterly-distribution-1060116 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - American Copper Development Corporation (CSE: ACDX) ("ACDX" or the "Company") announces that, further to its news release dated July 21, 2025, the Company has closed a non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") consisting of 5,405,763 units (each, a "Unit") at a price of CAD$0.225 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of CAD$1,216,296.74. Each Unit is comprised of one common share (each, a "Share") of the Company and one transferable Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"), with each Warrant exercisable to purchase one additional common share (each, a "Warrant Share") of the Company at a price of CAD$0.30 per Warrant Share for a period of 18 months from the closing date of the Private Placement. The Company paid no finder's fees in connection with the Private Placement. Of the 5,405,763 Units, 303,334 were issued to directors and officers of the Company (the "Insiders") for gross proceeds of $68,250.15. Participation by the Insiders constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuances to the Insiders are exempt from the valuation requirement of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.5(b) as the Shares are not listed on a specified market and from the minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration of the Shares and Warrants to be issued to each Insider does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company intends to use the proceeds of the Private Placement for general working capital purposes. All securities issued under the Private Placement will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day following the closing date as well as a voluntary lock-up whereby one-third of the securities will be released from escrow every six months after closing. About the Company The Company is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets. Its objective is to locate and develop economic precious and base metal properties of merit and to conduct its exploration program on the Lordsburg Property. 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. American Copper Development Corporation Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation, which include, but are limited to, statements relating to the use of proceeds from the Private Placement. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Accordingly, the forward-looking information discussed in this release, may not occur and could differ materially as a result of these known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting ACDX. Although ACDX believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on this information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by law, ACDX disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward- looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release publication, distribution or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262448 SOURCE: American Copper Development Corporation (Formerly Known as Cirrus Gold Corp.) Delivered 5.6% revenue growth, or 5.7% growth in organic constant currency, above the top end of the range from our July preannouncement Achieved 7.5% Intelligence revenue growth and 6.9% Annualized Intelligence Subscription revenue growth, with 105% Net Dollar Retention; 7th straight quarter of Net Dollar Retention above 103% Completed Initial Public Offering and debt refinancing; transformed capital structure, reduced interest expense run-rate by $100 million, and targeting ~3.5x net leverage ratio by end of 2025 Expects 5.2% 5.4% organic constant currency revenue growth, approximately 21% Adjusted EBITDA margin in FY 2025, as well as approximately $245 million to $275 million of free cash flow in the second half of 2025 NIQ Global Intelligence plc (NYSE: NIQ) (the "Company", or "NIQ"), a leading global consumer intelligence company, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. "Q2 was our latest in a series of strong quarters of revenue growth and margin expansion", said Jim Peck, NIQ's Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "Following our transformation, we are excited to enter the public markets. We believe we are well-positioned to deliver significant shareholder value in the years to come." "Building upon our strong Q2 results, since quarter-end, we have significantly improved our capital structure through our IPO and debt refinancing," said Mike Burwell, NIQ's Chief Financial Officer. "Our guidance calls for continued revenue growth and margin expansion, as well as significant free cash flow generation in the second half of 2025." Second Quarter 2025 Recent Highlights Financial: Total revenue grew 5.6% year-over-year to $1,040.8 million. Organic constant currency revenue grew 5.7%, led by EMEA and Americas, which grew 8.1% and 5.4%, respectively. Organic constant currency Intelligence revenue grew 7.5%, and Annualized Intelligence Subscription revenue grew 6.9% to $2,772.0 million with 105% Intelligence Subscription Net Dollar Retention and 98% Gross Dollar Retention. Net loss was $14.1 million and adjusted net loss was $1.6 million; Adjusted EBITDA grew 15.7% to $214.9 million, representing a 20.6% margin, expanding 180 basis points year-over-year. Subsequent to the end of the quarter, the Company generated aggregate net proceeds of $985.1 million from its initial public offering ("IPO"), increased and extended its revolving credit facility ("Revolver") to $750.0 million, and refinanced and extended maturities on its USD and EUR Term Loan facilities by approximately 2.5 years to October 2030. These actions reduced total outstanding debt and lowered annualized interest expense by approximately $100 million. Business: Key client developments, including Continued retention of large clients, including eight-figure multi-year Intelligence renewal with one of our largest CPG clients. Entered strategic multi-year collaboration and retailer data sharing agreement with Sephora to enhance our Full View of beauty to brands across the U.S. and Canada. Continued to demonstrate increased client satisfaction with NIQ's NPS score reaching 45 as of mid-year 2025, up seven points versus late 2024 and more than triple the reading in 2019. New product launches capabilities, including Expanded Digital Shelf eCommerce product to 70 markets, and saw continued strong demand for new Intelligence omnichannel offerings across retail measurement and consumer panel. Launched and expanded our AI-powered Activation product, BASES AI Screener, to 10 countries and 89 categories, converting Q1 large beta client demand into Q2 wins with several of our largest CPG clients. Acquired Gastrograph AI, a leading sensory insights platform that provides food and beverage manufacturers with predictive analytical capabilities related to ingredients, taste, texture and smell of products being designed for specific markets. New entry into adjacent verticals markets, including Entered supply chain vertical by acquiring M-Trix, a leading Brazil-based SaaS company with a network of more than 2,000 manufacturers, wholesalers, and distributors covering consumer transactions across approximately 1.2 million points of sale throughout Brazil. Already active in 25+ markets beyond its core base in Brazil, we believe M-Trix is primed for accelerated growth with our expansion plans to target broader penetration into LATAM, APAC, and EMEA regions. Leveraged agentic AI to enter the Packaging vertical, automating the back-coding of product attributes across markets. Continued to drive our consumer intelligence leadership position Reached 3.5 trillion data records captured per week in AI-powered Connect data engine. Financial Summary Operating Metrics Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 Y/Y Growth 2025 2024 Y/Y Growth Reported revenue(1) $1,040.8 $985.8 5.6% $2,006.7 $1,947.7 3.0% Organic constant currency revenue growth 5.7% 5.7% Reported operating income (loss) 39.5 (27.3) n/m 55.2 (59.4) n/m Reported net loss attributable to NIQ (14.1) (189.2) 93% (87.8) (363.1) 76% Adjusted EBITDA(1) 214.9 185.7 16% 403.6 339.3 19% Adjusted net loss (1.6) (38.1) 96% (6.1) (111.3) 95% Reported net cash used in operating activities (162.2) (122.6) (32)% Unlevered free cash flow (112.0) (43.8) n/m Cash paid for interest 167.5 213.5 (22)% Free cash flow (279.5) (257.3) (9)% A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP measures is provided at the end of this release. Percentage changes that are not meaningful are presented as "n/m". (1) Metric is presented on an as-reported basis at actual FX rates. Second Quarter 2025 Segment Results Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 Reported Growth Organic CC Growth 2025 2024 Reported Growth Organic CC Growth Reported revenue(1) Americas $400.0 $389.4 2.7% 5.4% $778.3 $753.7 3.3% 6.9% EMEA 466.2 425.8 9.5% 8.1% 885.1 855.9 3.4% 6.5% APAC 174.6 170.6 2.3% 0.6% 343.3 338.1 1.5% 1.7% Total reported revenue 1,040.8 985.8 5.6% 5.7% 2,006.7 1,947.7 3.0% 5.7% Adjusted EBITDA(1) Americas 115.5 112.4 3% 226.3 194.5 16% EMEA 133.6 105.7 26% 253.6 215.1 18% APAC 31.8 34.9 (9)% 68.9 74.9 (8)% Corporate (66.0) (67.3) (2)% (145.2) (145.2) Total Adjusted EBITDA $214.9 $185.7 16% $403.6 $339.3 19% Adjusted EBITDA margin(1) Americas 29% 29% 0bps 29% 26% 330bps EMEA 29% 25% 380bps 29% 25% 350bps APAC 18% 20% -220bps 20% 22% -210bps Total Adjusted EBITDA margin 21% 19% 180bps 20% 17% 270bps A reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures to the most comparable GAAP measures is provided at the end of this release. (1) Metric is presented on an as-reported basis at actual FX rates. Q2 Revenue Discussion Revenue grew 5.6%, while organic constant currency revenue grew 5.7%. Our Q2 organic constant currency revenue growth was driven primarily by higher pricing as well as from upselling and cross-selling new capabilities and solutions, and penetrating adjacent and high-growth markets. Americas: Q2 Americas' segment revenues (as reported) increased by $10.6 million, or 2.7%, primarily driven by Intelligence revenue, which increased by $12.8 million, or 4.2%, year-over-year due to expansion in core services, cross-selling new capabilities, and growth in new verticals. Activation revenue decreased by $2.2 million, or 2.5% year-over-year driven by client project timing considerations in the quarter; however, underlying client project demand remains robust. EMEA: Q2 EMEA segment revenues (as reported) increased by $40.4 million, or 9.5%, primarily driven by growth in Intelligence revenue, which increased $39.0 million, or 10.8%, year-over-year due to expansion in core services, cross-selling new capabilities, and growth in new verticals, as well as favorable currency exchange rates. Activation revenue increased by $1.4 million, or 2.1%, year-over-year driven by favorable currency exchange rates partially offset by client project timing considerations in the quarter; however, underlying client project demand remains robust. The increase was partially offset by the deconsolidation of our Russian subsidiaries and the sale of ownership interest in Netquest, a consumer panel services provider acquired through our 2023 combination with GfK GmbH ("GfK"). APAC: Q2 APAC segment revenues (as reported) increased by $4.0 million, or 2.3%, primarily driven by growth in Intelligence revenue, which increased $3.5 million, or 2.8%, year-over-year due to expansion in core services, cross-selling new capabilities, and growth in new verticals, as well as favorable currency exchange rates. Activation revenue grew $0.5 million, or 1.1%, driven by favorable currency exchange rates partially offset by client project timing considerations in the quarter; however, underlying client project demand remains robust. Cash Flow Cash flow used in operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $162.2 million compared to $122.6 million in the same period of 2024, primarily driven by timing related to items in net working capital offset by higher profitability, lower OTIs, and lower cash interest from our two debt refinancings in July 2024 and January 2025. The net working capital was impacted by temporarily higher DSOs related to the GfK integration, higher annual performance based compensation driven by company over-performance in 2024, and a higher prepaid balance from an accelerated vendor payment that garnered better pricing over the multi-year contract term. Capital expenditures for the six months ended June 30, 2025 decreased to $117 million compared to $135 million in the same period of 2024 due to increased capital efficiency related to our new tech platform. Free cash flow for the six months ended June 30, 2025 decreased to $(279.5) million compared to $(257.3) million in the same period of 2024. The Company remains on track for significant free cash flow improvement in fiscal 2025, and we expect approximately $245 million to $275 million of free cash flow in the second half of 2025 driven primarily by year-over-year increases in revenue flow-through to Adjusted EBITDA, increased capital efficiency, improved tax efficiency, and lower interest expense as a result of our IPO and our debt refinancings from July 2024, January 2025, and August 2025, the last of which is outlined below in "Liquidity, Capital Resources Recent Financings" Liquidity, Capital Resources Recent Financings At June 30, 2025 the Company had Cash and cash equivalents of $260 million and $76 million of available capacity under its Revolver, for a total of $335 million of available liquidity. On July 11, 2025, we increased our Revolver capacity to $750.0 million. On July 24, 2025, the Company completed its IPO, in which the Company sold 50,000,000 ordinary shares at the initial public offering price of $21.00 per share. The Company received aggregate net proceeds of $985.1 million after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by the Company and used a portion of these proceeds to repay approximately $533.4 million of outstanding borrowings under its Revolver. On August 12, 2025, we used approximately $387.4 million of the net proceeds to us from our initial public offering to repay in full the 2021 CAD Term Loan in the amount of C$122.6 million (approximately $89.0 million USD) and to repay 255.0 million (approximately $298.4 million USD) of the EUR Term Loan. This transaction reduced debt and extended the Term Loans' maturities by 2.5 years to October 2030 and reduced the Company's annualized interest expense run rate by approximately $100 million. Third Quarter and Full Year 2025 Outlook Our outlook is based on a number of assumptions that are subject to change, many of which are outside of the control of the Company. The extent to which external factors affect our business and results of operations are inherently uncertain and depends on numerous evolving factors that we may not be able to accurately predict. Third Quarter Guidance Full Year Guidance Revenue, as reported $1,023M $1,025M $4,137M $4,145M Revenue growth: as reported 4.2% 4.4% 4.1% 4.3% constant currency 4.4% 4.6% 4.3% 4.5% organic constant currency 5.0% 5.2% 5.2% 5.4% Adjusted EBITDA, as reported $202M $204M $877M $884M Adjusted EBITDA growth: as reported 13% 14% 18% 19% constant currency 13% 14% 18% 19% Adjusted EBITDA margin, as reported 19.7% 19.9% 21.2% 21.3% Free cash flow ($35M) ($5M)1 1 Full year 2025 free cash flow guidance range implies $245 million to $275 million of free cash flow generated in the second half of 2025 Earnings Webcast Information In conjunction with this announcement, NIQ will host a conference call and webcast today at 9:30 a.m. ET to discuss business results for the quarter and certain forward-looking information. The live webcast and a replay of the webcast will be available at the Investor Relations section of NIQ's website: https://investors.nielseniq.com (live and replay). About NIQ NIQ is a leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. Our global reach spans over 90 countries covering approximately 85% of the world's population and more than $7.2 trillion in global consumer spend. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights-delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms-NIQ delivers the Full View. For more information, please visit www.niq.com. Reorganization On July 22, 2025, in connection with the IPO, NIQ became the direct parent of various entities that were created by Advent International to acquire the business of NIQ from Nielsen Holdings, including AI PAVE Dutchco I B.V. ("AI PAVE") and the indirect parent of other intermediate holding companies, including AI PAVE Dutchco II B.V., AI PAVE Dutchco III B.V. (collectively, with AI PAVE, the "AI PAVE Entities"), and Intermediate Dutch Holdings B.V., a private company with limited liability organized under the laws of the Netherlands ("Dutch Holdings") (the "Reorganization"). All holders of equity interests in AI PAVE became shareholders of NIQ. The "Company," "NIQ," "we," "us" and "our" means, prior to the Reorganization, Dutch Holdings and its consolidated subsidiaries and, after the Reorganization, NIQ Global Intelligence plc and its consolidated subsidiaries. Prior to the effects of the Reorganization and IPO, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements present the historical financial information of Dutch Holdings. Subsequent to the Reorganization and IPO, the historical financial statements of the AI PAVE Entities and the historical consolidated financial statements of Dutch Holdings will be combined with the historical financial statements of NIQ and accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control, beginning with the financial statements as of and for the nine months ended September 30, 2025, which is the first reporting period following the Reorganization and IPO. Availability of Information on NIQ's Website Investors and others should note that NIQ routinely announces material information to investors and the marketplace using SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls, webcasts and the NIQ Investor Relations website. While not all of the information that the Company posts to the NIQ Investor Relations website is of a material nature, some information could be deemed to be material. Accordingly, the Company encourages investors, the media and others interested in NIQ to review the information that it shares on investors.nielseniq.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release and the related teleconference contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "could," "may," "will," "believe," "estimate," "forecast," "goal," "project," and other words of similar meaning. These forward-looking statements address various matters including financial guidance and projected estimates including expectations regarding free cash flow; statements about the Company's financial position; business plans and objectives; general economic and industry trends; operating results; and working capital and liquidity and other statements contained in this presentation that are not historical facts. Each forward-looking statement contained in this press release and the related teleconference is subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statement. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, among others, that we derive a significant portion of our revenues from sales of our subscription-based products; if we are unable to attract and retain members of our management team, we may not be able to compete effectively and will not be able to expand our business; that design defects, errors, failures or delays associated with our products or services could negatively impact our business; that we rely on third parties to provide certain data, services and information technology and operations functions in connection with the provision of our current products and services; that we have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting; if we are unsuccessful at investing in growth opportunities, our business could be materially and adversely affected; that the market for consumer measurement and business solutions products and services is highly competitive; if we cannot compete effectively, our revenues could decline and our business could be harmed, if we are not able to maintain a proprietary panel of a sufficient size and scope, or if the costs of establishing and maintaining our panel increase, our business could be harmed; that we have incorporated and are incorporating traditional AI, machine learning and generative AI into some of our products and that technology is new and developing and may present operational and reputational risks or result in liability or harm to our reputation, business or results of operations; that our international operations are exposed to risks which could impede growth in the future; that we are dependent on our relationship with our former parent company for certain aspects of our business; that our significant indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition; that the terms of our indebtedness restrict our current and future operations, particularly our ability to respond to change or to take certain actions; and the risks identified under the heading "Risk Factors" in our final prospectus dated July 22, 2025, and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 24, 2025, as well as the other information we file with the SEC. We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this presentation. You are encouraged to read our filings with the SEC, available at www.sec.gov, for a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this document, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any of these statements. Our business is subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, including those referenced above. Investors, potential investors, and others should give careful consideration to these risks and uncertainties. INTERMEDIATE DUTCH HOLDINGS B.V. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions, except share data) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Revenues 1,040.8 985.8 2,006.7 1,947.7 Operating expenses: Cost of revenues (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below) 449.2 434.0 880.0 878.9 Selling, general and administrative expenses 403.0 404.6 774.7 801.4 Depreciation and amortization 153.8 142.7 302.3 293.2 Impairment of long-lived assets 0.4 27.3 1.1 27.3 Restructuring, net 0.4 11.3 5.0 20.4 Other operating income, net (5.5 (6.8 (11.6 (14.1 Total operating expenses 1,001.3 1,013.1 1,951.5 2,007.1 Operating income (loss) 39.5 (27.3 55.2 (59.4 Interest expense, net (95.2 (107.0 (178.7 (213.9 Foreign currency exchange gain (loss), net 57.4 (1.0 89.4 (14.1 Nonoperating income (expense), net 9.9 (23.2 (2.8 (22.3 Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes 11.6 (158.5 (36.9 (309.7 Income tax expense from continuing operations (23.8 (29.7 (47.1 (60.7 Loss from continuing operations (12.2 (188.2 (84.0 (370.4 Discontinued operations: (Loss) income from discontinued operations before income taxes (0.3 9.2 (Loss) income from discontinued operations (0.3 9.2 Net loss (12.2 (188.5 (84.0 (361.2 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1.9 0.7 3.8 1.9 Net loss attributable to NIQ (14.1 (189.2 (87.8 (363.1 Basic and diluted loss per share from: Loss from continuing operations attributable to NIQ (0.14 (1.89 (0.88 (3.72 Income from discontinued operations 0.09 Net loss attributable to NIQ (0.14 (1.89 (0.88 (3.63 Weighted average basic and diluted NIQ common stock outstanding 100 100 100 100 INTERMEDIATE DUTCH HOLDINGS B.V. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (in millions, except share and per share data) June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 259.5 263.8 Trade receivables, net 781.4 644.9 Other receivables 101.3 83.3 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 234.3 136.3 Current assets held for sale 62.8 Total current assets 1,376.5 1,191.1 Property and equipment, net 204.4 208.0 Operating lease right-of-use assets 199.3 179.6 Intangible assets, net 2,341.1 2,287.6 Goodwill 2,400.7 2,209.5 Deferred income taxes 22.2 22.2 Other noncurrent assets 287.7 271.7 Total assets 6,831.9 6,369.7 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable 200.8 217.1 Accrued expenses 571.4 605.3 Deferred revenues 330.2 273.4 Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt 107.8 121.0 Other current liabilities 192.4 131.5 Current liabilities held for sale 17.3 Total current liabilities 1,402.6 1,365.6 Long-term debt 4,419.2 3,959.8 Operating lease liabilities 208.2 196.5 Deferred income taxes 110.2 109.1 Other noncurrent liabilities 283.9 251.8 Total liabilities 6,424.1 5,882.8 Stockholders' equity: Common stock, 0.01 par value; 100 shares issued and outstanding Paid-in capital 1,973.6 1,970.8 Accumulated deficit (1,772.9 (1,685.1 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (32.2 (37.7 Total NIQ stockholders' equity 168.5 248.0 Noncontrolling interests 239.3 238.9 Total stockholders' equity 407.8 486.9 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity 6,831.9 6,369.7 INTERMEDIATE DUTCH HOLDINGS B.V. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 Operating Activities: Net loss (84.0 (361.2 Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 302.3 293.2 Share-based compensation 2.8 1.9 Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs 29.3 34.4 Impairment of long-lived assets 1.1 27.3 Provision for credit losses 2.3 1.9 Non-cash foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net (85.2 15.1 (Gain) loss on deconsolidation of subsidiaries and related adjustments (5.2 22.9 Write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs 10.3 Gain on disposal of business (4.9 (9.1 Deferred income taxes (9.1 Other operating activities, net (7.2 (10.5 Changes in assets and liabilities: Trade and other receivables, net (94.4 (62.4 Prepaid expenses and other current assets (120.9 (65.6 Accounts payable and other current liabilities (101.1 13.0 Other noncurrent assets and liabilities (3.0 (11.3 Operating leases, net (4.4 (3.1 Net cash used in operating activities (162.2 (122.6 Investing Activities: Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired 20.2 Payment for asset acquisition (11.3 Proceeds from sale of businesses, net of cash disposed 67.7 312.6 Additions to property and equipment (11.8 (8.9 Additions to intangible assets (105.5 (125.8 Cash deconsolidated from previously controlled subsidiaries (14.5 Other investing activities, net (5.8 (2.7 Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (66.7 180.9 Financing Activities: Proceeds from issuance of debt and borrowings under revolving credit facility 810.3 777.6 Repayments of debt and borrowings under revolving credit facility (600.6 (816.8 Debt issuance costs paid (2.5 (1.6 Payment of deferred offering costs (2.2 Finance leases (7.8 (9.8 Cash dividends paid to noncontrolling interests (3.4 (10.3 Other financing activities, net 10.5 8.7 Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 204.3 (52.2 Effect of exchange-rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 20.3 (11.1 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (4.3 (5.0 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 263.8 282.4 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 259.5 277.4 Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information: Cash paid for interest 167.5 213.5 Cash paid for income taxes, net of refunds received 60.2 58.2 Supplemental Disclosures of Non-Cash Items: Deferred offering costs included in accrued expenses 13.7 Select Defined Terms Subscription Revenue: Defined as Annualized Revenue from subscription services associated with annual and multi-year contracts, and renewal licensing services within our Intelligence solutions; it excludes contracts and products, that are short-term in nature, which we define to mean less than 12 months in duration. Annualized Revenue: Defined as average annualized monthly contract value revenue over the trailing twelve months. Newly acquired client revenue is calculated by (i) annualizing the first month with positive contract value, then (ii) annualizing the monthly average contract value between the second month and eleventh month with positive contract value, and then (iii) annualizing the average contract value across the trailing twelve months. Annualized Revenue is not a forecast and the active contracts at the end of a reporting period used in calculating Annualized Revenue may or may not be extended or renewed by our customers. Net Dollar Retention (NDR): Represents the amount of annualized revenue that we generate from our existing clients. Gross Dollar Retention (GDR): Represents the amount of prior period annualized revenue we have retained from existing clients in the current period. The calculation reflects only customer losses and does not reflect customer expansion or contraction. Non-GAAP Financial Measures We present Organic Constant Currency ("Organic CC") Revenue and Revenue Growth, EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Free Cash Flow, Unlevered Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Net Loss per Share in the tables below as supplemental measures of our operating performance and liquidity. We consider them to be important supplemental measures of our performance and liquidity and believe they are useful to securities analysts, investors, and other interested parties in their evaluation of our operating performance and liquidity. These measures reflect the results from the primary operations of our business by excluding the effects of certain items that we do not consider indicative of our core operations and ongoing operating performance. Our financial statements are prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures are not presentations made in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to net income or loss, income or loss from operations, or any other performance measure prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP, or as an alternative to cash provided by operating activities as a measure of our liquidity. Consequently, our non-GAAP financial measures should be considered together with our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which are prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Management has defined the following items to exclude in calculating certain non-GAAP financial measures presented in the tables below: Transformation costs Consists of costs related to consultancy and advisory fees incurred to evaluate and improve organization efficiencies and operations. We exclude these costs as expenses may not be comparable during the transformation initiative as we progress toward an optimized operating model. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Consists of costs related to consultancy and advisory fees incurred to evaluate and improve organization efficiencies and operations. We exclude these costs as expenses may not be comparable during the transformation initiative as we progress toward an optimized operating model. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Merger and acquisition related costs Represents non-recurring acquisition-related costs. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Represents non-recurring acquisition-related costs. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. One-time compensation costs Reflects acquisition-related retention bonus costs from acquisitions completed in 2021 and 2022. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Reflects acquisition-related retention bonus costs from acquisitions completed in 2021 and 2022. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Other one-time costs Represents real estate costs due to office closures, software license redundancy expenses and other one-time costs. We exclude these expenses as we believe they are not directly correlated to the underlying performance of our business operations and vary depending upon the timing of such transactions. These costs are primarily included in selling, general and administrative expenses. Organic Constant Currency Revenue and Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth is calculated by dividing (a) our Revenues for the applicable period after (i) excluding the impact of acquisitions and similar transactions until the one-year anniversary of such acquisition or similar transaction, (ii) excluding the impact from lost sales related to the Russia Deconsolidation, (iii) excluding the impact of divestitures, and (iv) excluding the impact of foreign currency exchange rates by translating local currency results to U.S. dollars at current period exchange rates as compared to prior period exchange rates, by (b) our Revenues for the prior comparable period. We believe Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth provides investors with useful supplemental information about our revenue growth to assist in understanding the growth attributable to our core business, excluding the impact of currency fluctuation given the significant variability in revenues that can be driven by foreign currency exchange rates. The following tables present Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 and 2024. We present Organic Constant Currency Revenue and Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth as supplemental measures of our operating performance because they eliminate the impact of certain items that we do not consider indicative of our ongoing operating performance. Organic Constant Currency Revenue and Organic Constant Currency should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for performance measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Three Months Ended June 30, Growth/(Decline) Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth (in millions) 2025 2024 Revenue Growth Inorganic Items Foreign Exchange Revenues 1,040.8 985.8 5.6 1.4 (1.3 5.7 Revenue by segment: Americas revenue 400.0 389.4 2.7 2.7 5.4 EMEA revenue 466.2 425.8 9.5 3.5 (4.9 8.1 APAC revenue 174.6 170.6 2.3 (1.7 0.6 Six Months Ended June 30, Growth/(Decline) Organic Constant Currency Revenue Growth (in millions) 2025 2024 Revenue Growth Inorganic Items Foreign Exchange Revenues 2,006.7 1,947.7 3.0 1.8 0.9 5.7 Revenue by segment: Americas revenue 778.3 753.7 3.3 3.7 6.9 EMEA revenue 885.1 855.9 3.4 4.4 (1.3 6.5 APAC revenue 343.3 338.1 1.5 0.2 1.7 EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin EBITDA is defined as net loss attributable to NIQ excluding interest expense, net, income tax expense from continuing operations and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA adjusted for Transformation Program costs, GfK integration costs, acquisition and transaction related costs, impairment of long-lived assets, foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net, loss (gain) from discontinued operations, nonoperating items, net, share-based compensation expense, and other operating items, net. Specifically, Adjusted EBITDA allows for an assessment of our operating performance without the effect of charges that do not relate to the core operations of our business. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated by dividing Adjusted EBITDA by Revenue. The following table shows EBITDA, and Adjusted EBITDA for the periods presented, and the reconciliation to their most comparable GAAP measure, Net Loss Attributable to NIQ, and Net Loss attributable to NIQ divided by Revenue, for the periods presented: Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net loss attributable to NIQ (14.1 (189.2 (87.8 (363.1 Interest expense, net 95.2 107.0 178.7 213.9 Income tax expense from continuing operations 23.8 29.7 47.1 60.7 Depreciation and amortization 153.8 142.7 302.3 293.2 EBITDA 258.7 90.2 440.3 204.7 Transformation Program costs(1) 12.5 15.7 18.1 27.6 GfK integration costs(2) 1.9 19.8 16.6 36.0 Acquisitions and transaction related costs(3) 2.9 3.1 8.3 5.7 Impairment of long-lived assets(4) 0.4 27.3 1.1 27.3 Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net(5) (57.4 1.0 (89.4 14.1 Loss (gain) from discontinued operations(6) 0.3 (9.2 Nonoperating items, net(7) (6.4 27.7 10.2 31.0 Share-based compensation expense(8) 1.5 0.7 2.8 1.9 Other operating items, net(9) 0.8 (0.1 (4.4 0.2 Adjusted EBITDA 214.9 185.7 403.6 339.3 Net loss attributable to NIQ divided by Revenue (1.4 (19.2 (4.4 (18.6 Adjusted EBITDA Margin 20.6 18.8 20.1 17.4 Footnotes to the table above: (1) Transformation Program costs represent employee separation costs and costs associated with consultancy and advisory fees incurred to evaluate and improve organizational efficiencies and operations. In addition, the Transformation Program includes costs associated with the accelerated technology investment that are incremental and redundant costs that will not recur after the Transformation Program is completed and are not representative of our underlying operating performance. (2) GfK integration costs represent employee separation costs, consulting fees and integration costs associated with the GfK Combination. (3) Acquisitions and transaction related costs represent costs incurred in connection with planned and completed acquisitions, including due diligence, transaction, integration and legal related costs. These costs also include preparation and readiness costs for capital market transactions. (4) Impairment of long-lived assets represents impairment charges for operating lease right-of-use assets, property, plant and equipment and definite-lived intangible assets. (5) Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net primarily reflects the translation movements on foreign currency denominated term loans as well as the impact of foreign exchange hedges. (6) Loss from discontinued operations represents operations associated with the GfK European Consumer Panel Business that was divested in the Required GfK European Consumer Panel Services Divestiture to receive European regulatory approvals for the GfK Combination (see Note 3. "Discontinued Operations and Disposals" in the notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information). (7) Nonoperating items, net consists of adjustments primarily related to net periodic pension (cost) benefit, other than service cost, write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs, deconsolidation of Russian subsidiaries, settlement of tax indemnification, factoring fees and other. The settlement of tax indemnification relates to certain taxes indemnified by Nielsen in connection with the 2021 Carve-Out Transaction. The initial amount was recorded as part of purchase accounting adjustments. Further adjustments are made to the tax indemnification as audit settlements or refunds are recorded. Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Nonoperating items, net (6.4 27.7 10.2 31.0 Net periodic pension benefit, other than service cost (1.3 (0.5 (2.2 (1.0 Write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs 10.3 Deconsolidation of Russian subsidiaries (5.2 22.9 (5.2 22.9 Settlement of tax indemnification 0.3 4.4 Factoring fees 2.9 4.1 5.7 7.9 Other (3.1 1.2 (2.8 1.2 (8) Share-based compensation expense consists of non-cash expense. (9) Other operating items, net primarily consists of gain/loss on sale of long-lived assets and gain/loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations. We exclude these expenses because they are not closely tied to the core performance of our business and can cause fluctuations between periods due to the nature and timing of the expense or income. These costs are included in selling, general and administrative expenses as part of the condensed consolidated statements of operations. The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA by segment to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes, for the periods presented: Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Adjusted EBITDA by segment Americas 115.5 112.4 226.3 194.5 EMEA 133.6 105.7 253.6 215.1 APAC 31.8 34.9 68.9 74.9 Total segment Adjusted EBITDA 280.9 253.0 548.8 484.5 Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes: Corporate expenses not allocated to segments (66.0 (67.3 (145.2 (145.2 Depreciation and amortization (153.8 (142.7 (302.3 (293.2 Interest expense, net (95.2 (107.0 (178.7 (213.9 Transformation program costs(1) (12.5 (15.7 (18.1 (27.6 GfK integration costs(2) (1.9 (19.8 (16.6 (36.0 Acquisitions and transaction related costs(3) (2.9 (3.1 (8.3 (5.7 Foreign currency exchange gain (loss), net 57.4 (1.0 89.4 (14.1 Nonoperating items, net(4) 6.4 (27.7 (10.2 (31.0 Share-based compensation expense (1.5 (0.7 (2.8 (1.9 Impairment of long-lived assets (0.4 (27.3 (1.1 (27.3 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1.9 0.7 3.8 1.9 Other operating items, net(5) (0.8 0.1 4.4 (0.2 Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes 11.6 (158.5 (36.9 (309.7 (1) Transformation program costs include employee separation costs as further discussed in Note 11. "Restructuring Activities" to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, as well as additional costs associated with accelerated technology investment and consultancy and advisory fees incurred to evaluate and improve organizational efficiencies and operations. (2) GfK integration costs include employee separation costs as further discussed in Note 11. "Restructuring Activities" to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, as well as additional costs for consulting fees and integration associated with the GfK Combination. (3) Acquisitions and transaction related costs represent costs incurred in connection with planned and completed acquisitions, including due diligence, transaction, integration and legal related costs. These costs also include preparation and readiness costs for capital market transactions. (4) Consists of adjustments related to: (i) net periodic pension costs other than service cost, (ii) factoring fees, (iii) write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs, (iv) deconsolidation of subsidiaries, (v) settlement of tax indemnification and (vi) other nonoperating expenses. See Note 14. "Nonoperating income (expense), net to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for further information on these adjustments. (5) Consists primarily of adjustments related to gain/loss on sale of long-lived assets and gain/loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations. Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow Free Cash Flow is defined as net cash used in operating activities less cash paid for capital expenditures. Unlevered Free Cash Flow is defined as Free Cash Flow less cash paid for interest. Management believes Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow, in conjunction with Cash from Operations, can be useful to investors as an indicator of liquidity since capital expenditures are a necessary component of ongoing operations. Management believes that capital expenditures are essential to our innovation and maintenance of our operational capabilities. The following tables show Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow for the periods presented, and the reconciliation to its most comparable U.S. GAAP measure, net cash used in operating activities, for the periods presented. Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 Net cash used in operating activities (162.2 (122.6 Cash paid for capital expenditures (117.3 (134.7 Free Cash Flow (279.5 (257.3 Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 Free Cash Flow (279.5 (257.3 Cash paid for interest 167.5 213.5 Unlevered Free Cash Flow (112.0 (43.8 Free Cash Flow and Unlevered Free Cash Flow decreased by $22.2 million and $68.2 million, respectively, for the six months ended June 30, 2025, as compared to the six months ended June 30, 2024 due to increased variable compensation payments partially offset by overall improved profitability as evidenced by a higher Adjusted EBITDA and lower transformation costs. See the "Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows" in the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information. Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Net Loss Per Share Adjusted Net Loss is defined as Net Loss Attributable to NIQ excluding special items deemed not to be reflective of ongoing or core operations. Adjusted Net Loss per Share is defined as Adjusted Net Loss divided by the Weighted Average Shares Outstanding. Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Net Loss Per Share are used by management and can be useful to investors as an indicator of our core business performance. Management uses these metrics to analyze business operations and to adjust net loss for items we believe do not accurately reflect our core business or that relate to non-cash expenses or noncontrolling interests. The following tables shows Adjusted Net Loss and Adjusted Net Loss Per Share, for the periods presented, and the reconciliation to their most comparable GAAP measure, Net Loss attributable to NIQ and Earnings Per Share, respectively, for the periods presented: Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net loss attributable to NIQ (14.1 (189.2 (87.8 (363.1 Adjustments to net loss attributable to NIQ Transformation Program costs(1) 12.5 15.7 18.1 27.6 Amortization of certain intangible assets(2) 68.1 71.5 137.2 143.3 GfK integration costs(3) 1.9 19.8 16.6 36.0 Acquisitions and transaction related costs(4) 2.9 3.1 8.3 5.7 Impairment of long-lived assets(5) 0.4 27.3 1.1 27.3 Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net(6) (57.4 1.0 (89.4 14.1 Nonoperating items, net(7) (9.3 23.6 4.5 23.1 Share-based compensation expense(8) 1.5 0.7 2.8 1.9 Other operating items, net(9) 0.8 (0.1 (4.4 0.2 Total Adjustments to net loss attributable to NIQ 21.4 162.6 94.8 279.2 Tax effect of above adjustments(10) (8.9 (11.8 (13.1 (18.2 Loss (gain) from discontinued operations(11) 0.3 (9.2 Adjusted Net Loss attributable to NIQ (1.6 (38.1 (6.1 (111.3 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 100 100 100 100 Diluted 100 100 100 100 Adjusted Net Loss per share: Basic (0.02 (0.38 (0.06 (1.11 Diluted (0.02 (0.38 (0.06 (1.11 Footnotes to the table above: (1) Transformation Program costs represent employee separation costs and costs associated with consultancy and advisory fees incurred to evaluate and improve organizational efficiencies and operations. The costs associated with the accelerated technology investment are incremental and redundant costs that will not recur after the Transformation Program is completed and are not representative of our underlying operating performance. (2) Amortization of certain intangible assets consists of amortization costs of intangible assets which were recorded as part of purchase accounting. We exclude the impact of amortization of acquired intangible assets as companies utilize intangible assets with different estimated useful lives and have different methods of amortizing intangible assets. Furthermore, the timing and magnitude of business combination transactions are not predictable, and the purchase price allocated to amortizable intangible assets is unique to each acquisition and can vary significantly from period to period and across companies. These costs are included in depreciation and amortization as part of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (3) GfK integration costs represent employee separation costs, consulting fees and integration costs associated with the GfK Combination. (4) Acquisitions and transaction related costs represent costs incurred in connection with planned and completed acquisitions, including due diligence, transaction, integration and legal related costs. These costs also include preparation and readiness costs for capital market transactions. (5) Impairment of long-lived assets represents impairment charges for operating lease right-of-use assets, property, plant and equipment and definite-lived intangible assets. (6) Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss, net reflects the translation movements on foreign currency denominated term loans as well as the impact of foreign exchange hedges. (7) Nonoperating items, net consists of adjustments primarily related to net period pension (cost) benefit, other than service cost, write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs, deconsolidation of Russian subsidiaries, settlement of tax indemnification, and other. The settlement of tax indemnification relates to certain taxes indemnified by Nielsen in connection with the 2021 Carve-Out Transaction. The initial amount was recorded as part of purchase accounting adjustments. Further adjustments are made to the tax indemnification as audit settlements or refunds are recorded. Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in millions) 2025 2024 2025 2024 Nonoperating items, net (9.3 23.6 4.5 23.1 Net periodic pension benefit, other than service cost (1.3 (0.5 (2.2 (1.0 Write-off of unamortized debt discount and debt issuance costs 10.3 Deconsolidation of Russian subsidiaries (5.2 22.9 (5.2 22.9 Settlement of tax indemnification 0.3 4.4 Other (3.1 1.2 (2.8 1.2 (8) Share-based compensation expense consists of non-cash expense. (9) Other operating items, net primarily consists of gain/loss on sale of long-lived assets, and gain/loss on settlement of asset retirement obligations. We exclude these expenses because they are not closely tied to the core performance of our business and can cause fluctuations between periods due to the nature and timing of the expense or income. These costs are included in selling, general and administrative expenses as part of the condensed consolidated statements of operations. (10) Income tax adjustments include the tax effect of the non-GAAP adjustments, calculated using the appropriate statutory tax rate for each adjustment. The non-GAAP tax rate was 99.5% and 1,003.1% for the three months ended June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively, and 103.4% and (257.7)% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, and June 30, 2024, respectively. Our statutory rate is evaluated annually. (11) Gain (loss) from discontinued operations represents operations associated with the Consumer Panel Business that was divested in the Required GfK European Consumer Panel Services Divestiture to receive European regulatory approvals for the GfK Combination (see Note 3. "Discontinued Operations and Disposals" in the notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information). Source: NIQ Global Intelligence plc NIQ-IR View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814809865/en/ Contacts: Investors: investor.relations@nielseniq.com Media: media.relations@nielseniq.com COMPANY ANNOUNCEMENT NO. 22-2025 FLSmidth & Co. A/S 14 August 2025 Copenhagen, Denmark Today, FLSmidth announces preliminary and unaudited financial results for Q2 2025 and H1 2025. In addition, the financial guidance for the full year 2025 is updated. As a result of the signed agreements to divest FLSmidth Cement, including the Air Pollution Control business, the business has been classified as discontinued activities and assets held for sale. Consequently, FLSmidth will as of Q2 2025 change its segment reporting to reflect that FLSmidth going forward will be a pure-play supplier of technology and services to the mining industry. As such, FLSmidth will as of Q2 2025 report on the following three continuing segments: Service, Products, and Pumps, Cyclones & Valves (PC&V). On average, the PC&V segment is expected to comprise approximately 25% equipment-related orders and 75% aftermarket-related orders. Preliminary and unaudited key figures for Q2 2025 and H1 2025 Service Products PC&V Consolidated Group Q2 2025 H1 2025 Q2 2025 H1 2025 Q2 2025 H1 2025 Q2 2025 H1 2025 Revenue, DKK 2.1bn 4.2bn 0.6bn 1.4bn 0.7bn 1.4bn 3.4bn 7.1bn Adj. EBITA margin 19.6% 20.0% -9.7% -9.9% 23.7% 24.2% 15.2% 14.9% Order intake, DKK 2.1bn 4.2bn 0.7bn 1.5bn 0.8bn 1.5bn 3.5bn 7.3bn To illustrate the underlying business performance, FLSmidth presents an Adjusted EBITA margin, which excludes costs related to the ongoing transformation activities and the separation of the Mining and Cement businesses totalling DKK 50m and DKK 101m for Q2 2025 and H1 2025, respectively. In addition, the Adjusted EBITA margin now also excludes Other Operating Net Income totalling income of DKK 59m and DKK 77m in Q2 2025 and H1 2025, respectively. Financial guidance for the full year 2025 Guidance 20 June 2025 Guidance 14 August 2025 Revenue, DKK ~15.0bn 14.5-15.0bn Adj. EBITA margin1 14.0-14.5% 15.0-15.5% The financial guidance for the full year 2025 has been updated. As such, FLSmidth now expects revenue of DKK 14.5-15.0bn (previously DKK ~15.0bn). The downward adjustment from previous guidance is partly attributable to the expectation of lower revenue from the order backlog due to customer-driven delays affecting the execution of certain Products orders. Further, the updated revenue guidance reflects adverse foreign exchange rate movements. In addition, FLSmidth now expects an Adjusted EBITA margin of 15.0-15.5% (previously 14.0-14.5%). The upgraded Adjusted EBITA margin guidance incorporates the stronger-than-anticipated benefits from the ongoing implementation of our corporate model, driving further business simplification and operational efficiency. Compared to 2024, we expect market demand for aftermarket services in the global mining industry to remain stable and active, whereas the market demand for original equipment is expected to remain soft. The Adjusted EBITA margin is expected to be positively impacted by the ongoing implementation of our corporate model, driving further business simplification and operational efficiency, as well as enhanced commercial execution. The Adjusted EBITA margin guidance excludes costs related to the ongoing transformation activities and the separation of the Mining and Cement businesses. These costs are expected to amount to approximately DKK 200m for the full year 2025. In addition, the guidance for Adjusted EBITA margin now excludes Other Operating Net Income. Other Operating Net Income totalled an income of DKK 77m in H1 2025. Presentation of the H1 2025 Interim Financial Report FLSmidth will, as previously communicated, release the detailed and unaudited financial results for the first half of 2025 on 20 August 2025. FLSmidth will host a conference call for investors and analysts on Wednesday 20 August 2025 at 11:00 a.m. CEST. The presentation can be followed live or viewed as a replay via the internet here. Contacts: Investor Relations Andreas Holkjr, +45 24 85 03 84, andh@flsmidth.com Jannick Denholt, +45 21 69 66 57, jli@flsmidth.com Media Jannick Denholt, +45 21 69 66 57, jli@flsmidth.com About FLSmidth FLSmidth is a full flowsheet technology and service supplier to the global mining industry. We enable our customers to improve performance, lower operating costs and reduce environmental impact. MissionZero is our sustainability ambition towards zero emissions in mining by 2030. We work within fully validated Science-Based Targets, have a clear commitment to improving the sustainability performance of the global mining industry and aim to become carbon neutral in our own operations by 2030. www.fls.com Attachment Banking revenue up 61% y/y, now representing 26% of gross profit SAO PAULO, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pagbank (NYSE: PAGS), a leading digital bank offering a comprehensive suite of financial services and payment solutions - always searching to make the financial lives of people and businesses easier - closed the second quarter of 2025 (2Q25) with net revenue of R$5.1 billion, recording growth of 18% when excluding the foreign exchange effect. The results were driven by the strong performance of the banking segment, which grew 61% in the period. Recurring net income reached R$565 million (+4% y/y) and reported net income was R$537 million (+7% y/y), with a return on equity (ROE) of 14.5%. Gross profit totaled R$1.9 billion, up 7% year-over-year, within the guidance range. "The 2Q25 results emphasize that we are on the right path: we have grown profitably and continue to deliver value to our shareholders, even in a challenging economic environment. We estimate an 18% return to our shareholders, considering the dividends and share repurchase programs announced," said Artur Schunck, CFO of PagBank. Financial strength remains a competitive advantage: total funding reached R$43 billion (+9% y/y), deposits totaled R$37.2 billion (+9% y/y and +10% q/q), and the expanded loan portfolio reached R$48 billion (+11% y/y), with particular note to the total loan portfolio of R$3.9 billion (+34% y/y), concentrated in low-risk, high-engagement products. "In addition to the quarter's consistent results, we continue to advance our business platform. We are a full digital bank, focused on innovation and excellence, and for the second half of the year, we maintain an optimistic outlook, guided by disciplined business execution and our constant pursuit of new opportunities," said Alexandre Magnani, CEO of PagBank. Creating value for shareholders remains a priority. Over the past 12 months, PagBank allocated R$1.9 billion to dividends and share repurchases. New dividend payments are expected in the second half of this year, subject to market conditions, the Company's financial performance, and approval by PagBank's Board of Directors. With 33 million clients, PagBank maintains a solid presence in payments and sees significant opportunities on the transactional side of banking - particularly through Pix, deposits, and credit - exploring markets with high growth potential. "We are building the bank of the future. A platform to simplify the management of our clients' financial lives in a single interface, through artificial intelligence and Open Finance, delivering an increasingly complete and personalized experience," said Magnani. To access PagBank's 2Q25 financial statements, click here. Forward Looking Statements This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, those regarding the Company's expectations, intentions, beliefs, or strategies, are forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "should," "may," "will," and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.. These statements reflect the current views of the company's management and are subject to various risks and uncertainties. They are based on numerous assumptions and factors, including economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operational factors. Any change in these assumptions or factors may cause actual results to differ materially from the company's current expectations. About PagBank PagBank promotes innovative solutions in financial services and means of payment, automating the process of buying, selling, and transferring to promote the business of any person or company simply and securely. PagBank, a company of the UOL Group - Brazil's Internet leader - acts as an issuer and acquirer, offering digital accounts and complete solutions for online and in-person payments (via mobile and POS devices). PagBank also offers a wide variety of payment methods, such as credit and prepaid cards, bank transfers, boleto payments, account balances, and more. PagBank (PagSeguro Internet Instituicao de Pagamento S.A.) is regulated by the Central Bank of Brazil as a payment institution, issuer of electronic money, issuer of post-paid instruments, and acquirer, with partnerships with the leading card brands. Its parent company, PagSeguro Digital Ltd., is publicly traded in the United States (NYSE: PAGS) and regulated by the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission). The distribution of mutual funds is carried out by BancoSeguro S.A., authorized by the Central Bank of Brazil, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and affiliated with ANBIMA. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750210/17.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/pagbank-reports-net-revenue-of-r5-1-billion-and-recurring-net-income-of-r565-million-in-2q25--302529509.html NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO THE U.S. NEWSWIRE OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES REGINA, SK / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / ROK Resources Inc. ("ROK" or the "Company") (TSXV:ROK)(OTCQB:ROKRF) has filed its interim Financial Results and Management Discussion & Analysis for the six months ended June 30, 2025. Q2 2025 Financial and Operating Highlights The Company remained on strategy and budget for Q2 2025 with Funds Flow of $9.0 million, used to increase working capital surplus and pursue the Normal Course Issuer Bid ("NCIB"). Production in line with forecast: quarterly production averaged 3,729 boepd (65% liquids). Working Capital Surplus: Adjusted Net Surplus of $3.8 million as compared to $10.6 million of Adjusted Net Debt at year-end 2024. Initiated and Executed NCIB: Including July trading, the Company repurchased and cancelled a total of 1,171,000 common shares at an average price of $0.19 per share leaving 218,598,315 common shares issued and outstanding. Operations Update The Company plans to initiate a three well capital program in Q3 2025 targeting two low-cost re-entries and the drilling of an open hole Midale multi lateral well. The balance of the 2025 development program is expected to commence in Q4 2025. The Company maintains flexibility to facilitate strategic growth when appropriate amid ongoing pricing volatility. Q2 2025 Financials The Company will continue to prioritize maintaining stable production with Funds Flow directed to increasing working capital surplus and/or be used to facilitate the purchase and cancelation of its outstanding common shares, as defined by the NCIB. Financial (expressed in $000s except where stated) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Net income (loss) 3,278 82 1,733 (5,531 ) Basic ($/share) 0.01 0.00 0.01 (0.03 ) Diluted ($/share) 0.01 0.00 0.01 (0.03 ) Funds flow 8,977 5,001 16,126 11,343 Basic ($/share) 0.04 0.02 0.07 0.05 Diluted ($/share) 0.04 0.02 0.07 0.05 Expenditures on property, plant and equipment 1,034 5,276 1,703 7,095 Operating Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Oil and Natural Gas Sales 16,641 21,742 37,621 42,674 Royalties (2,558 ) (3,782 ) (6,036 ) (7,737 ) Operating Expenses (10,543 ) (11,555 ) (19,574 ) (22,279 ) Operating Income 3,540 6,405 12,011 12,658 Realized gain on commodity contracts 6,869 (65 ) 6,535 861 Processing and other income (1) 553 647 1,190 1,509 Funds from Operations 10,962 6,987 19,736 15,028 Average daily production Crude oil (bbl/d) 2,030 2,074 2,098 2,140 NGLs (boe/d) 376 411 396 435 Natural gas (mcf/d) 7,940 8,715 8,041 9,198 Total (boe/d) 3,729 3,937 3,834 4,107 Operating Netback per boe Oil and Natural Gas Sales 49.03 60.68 54.21 57.08 Royalties (7.54 ) (10.56 ) (8.70 ) (10.35 ) Operating Expenses (31.07 ) (32.25 ) (28.20 ) (29.80 ) Operating Netbacks ($/boe) 10.42 17.87 17.31 16.93 Funds from Operations ($/boe) 31.90 19.50 28.04 20.10 Operating Income Profit Margin 21.3 % 29.4 % 31.9 % 29.7 % Funds from Operations Profit Margin 65.1 % 32.1 % 51.7 % 35.2 % Share information Common shares outstanding, end of period 218,418,315 212,613,817 Weighted average basic shares outstanding 218,418,348 211,916,317 Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 218,418,348 265,105,802 Non-cash revenue derived from management fees that are recognized over time from deferred revenue is excluded from processing and other income for the calculation of Funds from Operations. Complete reports and statements are available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company website www.rokresources.ca. Normal Course Issuer Bid The Company began an NCIB to purchase and cancel up to 10% of its outstanding Public Float (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) during a one-year period from the date of acceptance of the NCIB from the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company has repurchased and cancelled a total of 1,171,000 common shares at an average price of $0.19 per share from the commencement of the NCIB on June 24, 2025, through the end of July 2025, leaving 218,598,315 common shares issued and outstanding. About ROK ROK is primarily engaged in exploring for petroleum and natural gas development activities in Alberta and Saskatchewan. It has offices located in both Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada and Calgary, Alberta, Canada. ROK's common shares are traded on the TSXV Venture Exchange under the trading symbol "ROK". For further information, please contact: Bryden Wright, President and Chief Executive Officer Jared Lukomski, Senior Vice President, Land & Business Development Phone: (306) 522-0011 Email: investor@rokresources.ca Website: www.rokresources.ca Non-IFRS Measures The non-IFRS measures referred to above do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS Accounting Standards ("IFRS") and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies. Management uses this non-IFRS measurement to provide its shareholders and investors with a measurement of the Company's financial performance and are not intended to represent operating profits nor should they be viewed as an alternative to cash provided by operating activities, net income or other measures of financial performance calculated in accordance with IFRS. The reader is cautioned that these amounts may not be directly comparable to measures for other companies where similar terminology is used. "Operating Income" is calculated by deducting royalties and operating expense from total sales revenue. Total sales revenue is comprised of oil and gas sales. The Company refers to Operating Income expressed per unit of production as an "Operating Netback". "Operating Income Profit Margin" is calculated by the Company as Operating Income as a percentage of oil and natural gas sales. "Funds from Operations" is calculated by adding other income and realized gains/losses on commodity contracts ("hedging") to Operating Income. "Funds from Operations Profit Margin" is calculated by the Company as Funds from Operations as a percentage of oil and natural gas sales. The following table reconciles the aforementioned non-IFRS measures: ($000s) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Oil and Natural Gas Sales 16,641 21,742 37,621 42,674 Royalties (2,558 ) (3,782 ) (6,036 ) (7,737 ) Operating Expenses (10,543 ) (11,555 ) (19,574 ) (22,279 ) Operating Income 3,540 6,405 12,011 12,658 Processing and other income (1) 6,869 (65 ) 6,535 861 Realized gain (loss) on commodity contracts 553 647 1,190 1,509 Funds from Operations 10,962 6,987 19,736 15,028 Sales volume (boe) 339,366 358,303 694,023 747,563 ($ per boe) Oil and Natural Gas Sales 49.03 60.68 54.21 57.08 Royalties (7.54 ) (10.56 ) (8.70 ) (10.35 ) Operating Expenses (31.07 ) (32.25 ) (28.20 ) (29.80 ) Operating Netback 10.42 17.87 17.31 16.93 Funds from Operations 31.90 19.50 28.04 20.10 Operating Income Profit Margin 21.3 % 29.4 % 31.9 % 29.7 % Funds from Operations Profit Margin 65.1 % 32.1 % 51.7 % 35.2 % Non-cash revenue derived from management fees that are recognized over time from deferred revenue is excluded from processing and other income for the calculation of Funds from Operations. "Net Surplus (Debt)" includes the undiscounted face value of all indebtedness of the Company, such as the Credit Facility and Lease Obligations (each as defined within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025), net of Adjusted Working Capital. "Adjusted Working Capital" is calculated as current assets less current liabilities, excluding current portion of debt, lease liability, and RSU liability as defined on the Company's statement of financial position within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025. "Adjusted Net Surplus (Debt)" is calculated by removing the "mark-to-market fair value of the current portion of risk management contracts" and "lease obligations" (each as defined within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025) and non-cash deferred revenue liability derived from non-core business activities from Net Surplus (Debt). The following table reconciles the aforementioned non-IFRS measures: ($000s) June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Cash and cash equivalents 3,316 - Accounts receivable 8,321 11,528 Prepaids and deposits 828 284 Risk management contracts 270 (771 ) Accounts payable (8,751 ) (15,346 ) Adjusted working capital 3,984 (4,305 ) Credit Facility (1) - (7,349 ) Lease obligations (1) (398 ) (475 ) Adjusted working capital 3,984 (4,305 ) Net surplus (debt) 3,586 (12,129 ) Remove: Current portion of risk management contracts (270 ) 771 Remove: Lease obligations 398 475 Remove: Deferred revenue liability (non-cash) 46 322 Adjusted net surplus (debt) 3,760 (10,561 ) "Funds Flow" includes all cash from (used in) operating activities and is calculated before the change in non-cash working capital. "Funds Flow Basic ($/share)" and "Funds Flow Diluted ($/share)" are calculated by dividing Funds Flow by the weighted average number of basic shares and weighted average number of diluted shares outstanding, respectively, for the relevant period, as presented within the Company's interim condensed financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025. These are considered key measures of operating performance and capital management as they demonstrate the Company's ability to generate the cash necessary to repay debt and fund capital investments. Management believes that by excluding the temporary impact of changes in non-cash operating working capital, each of these provide useful measures of ROK's ability to generate cash that are not subject to short-term movements in non-cash operating working capital. The following table reconciles cash flow from operating activities to Funds Flow: ($000s) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Cash flows provided by operating activities 9,496 6,484 12,533 10,660 Change in non-cash working capital (519 ) (1,483 ) 3,593 683 Funds Flow 8,977 5,001 16,126 11,343 Conversion Measures Production volumes and reserves are commonly expressed on a barrel of oil equivalent ("boe") basis whereby natural gas volumes are converted at the ratio of 6 thousand cubic feet ("Mcf") to 1 barrel of oil ("bbl"). Although the intention is to sum oil and natural gas measurement units into one basis for improved analysis of results and comparisons with other industry participants, boe's may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A boe conversion ratio of 6 Mcf to 1 bbl is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. In recent years, the value ratio based on the price of crude oil as compared to natural gas has been significantly higher than the energy equivalency of 6:1 and utilizing a conversion of natural gas volumes on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value. Abbreviations bbls/d bopd barrels per day barrels per day boepd barrels oil equivalent per day IP Initial Production NGLs Natural Gas Liquids Mboe Mg/l Thousands of barrels of oil equivalent Milligrams per Litre MMboe Millions of barrels of oil equivalent PDP Proved Developed Producing TP Total Proved Reserves TPP Total Proved and Probable Reserves WTI CA$ US$ West Texas Intermediate, the reference price paid in U.S. dollars at Cushing, Oklahoma for the crude oil standard grade Canadian dollars U.S. dollars Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Company's objectives, goals, or future plans and the expected results thereof. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on several estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include but are not limited to general business, economic and social uncertainties; litigation, legislative, environmental, and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; those additional risks set out in ROK's public documents filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com; and other matters discussed in this news release. In regard to the NCIB discussed in this news release, although the Company presently intends to purchase Common Shares under the NCIB, there can be no assurance that acceptance by the TSXV of the NCIB will be achieved, or that subsequently any such purchases of Common Shares will be completed. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether because of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility of the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: ROK Resources Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/oil-gas-and-energy/rok-resources-files-financial-results-for-the-second-quarter-of-2025-1060975 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - IC Group Holdings Inc. (TSXV: ICGH) ("IC Group" or the "Company"), a technology-enabled consumer engagement company that helps global brands drive commerce with consumers, will announce its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025, on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, after market close. The Company will host an investor webinar at 9:30 AM EDT (6:30 AM PDT) on Thursday, August 28, 2025 to discuss its financial and business results, along with strategic priorities for the remainder of 2025. IC Group invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives, and other stakeholders to attend the webinar, where Duncan McCready, Chief Executive Officer, and John Penhale, Chief Financial Officer, will review Q2 2025 results, followed by a question-and-answer session. Investor Webinar Registration Register here: bit.ly/ICGH-Q2-2025 A recording of the webinar and supporting materials will be made available in the Investor section of the Company's website at: https://www.icgroupinc.com/investor-relations/. About IC Group Holdings Inc. IC Group (TSXV: ICGH) is transforming how brands engage with audiences across live events. It uses digital and social platforms to drive sales, capture valuable first-party data to fuel ongoing marketing initiatives and build customer loyalty. The Company does this by simplifying and managing the technology, regulatory, data security, and financial risks of engaging with consumer audiences on a global basis. Its solutions span digital engagement, mobile messaging, and specialty insurance for Fortune 500 brands and their agency partners in international jurisdictions. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262425 SOURCE: IC Group Inc. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Viscount Mining Corp. (TSXV: VML) (OTCQB: VLMGF) ("Viscount" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a pivotal early-stage discovery at its Passiflora porphyry target in Silver Cliff, Colorado. The Company's first deep drill hole (PF-03A) intersected 843.9 metres of continuous copper-gold mineralization averaging 0.214% CuEq, including multiple higher-grade zones such as 189 m at 0.326% CuEq and 45 m at 0.417% CuEq. These grades exceed typical early-stage porphyry exploration thresholds (~0.15% CuEq) often seen in the initial drilling of deposits that evolved into world-class, long-life operations, and the target remains open in all directions and at depth. Drill hole PF-03A was designed to test a very strong geophysical anomaly identified by Quantec Geoscience's Titan MT survey in 2023. The survey outlined a strong conductive target beginning at ~400 m and extending to at least 1,500 m depth and over 2km in horizontal distance. Drilling began in mid-January 2025 and concluded March 7, 2025 at a final depth of 1,144 m due to equipment challenges, short of the planned 1,500 m target. The upper 300 metres of core were not assayed, as the Titan MT model indicated the main conductor began around 400 metres. However, visual inspection of the core confirmed strong sulfide mineralization from surface to 300 metres. This zone remains a high-priority target for future sampling and reassessment. The principal objective of the drill hole was to determine whether the geological target was indeed a porphyry system, and not a different type of conductive anomaly. We are thrilled to report that not only did the drilling confirm the presence of a copper-gold porphyry system, but it also revealed consistently anomalous concentrations of copper, molybdenum, zinc, and lead, alongside a significant presence of gold. Viscount CEO Jim MacKenzie stated, "With grades like this, especially with nearly half the samples above 0.20% CuEq, are a clear signal we're dealing with a significant deposit. The presence of multiple, thick, higher-grade zones-such as 189 m at 0.326% CuEq including 45 m at 0.417% CuEq, and 99 m at 0.278% CuEq including 24 m at 0.306% CuEq-well above typical early-stage porphyry levels, reinforces Passiflora's potential as an extensive, long-life copper-gold system." "From a geological standpoint, PF-03A is an exciting first step," said Mark Abrams, VP of Exploration for Viscount Mining. "The consistent copper values throughout the hole, the upward grade trend with depth, and the presence of multiple minerals typically associated with mature porphyry systems all point to a robust porphyry deposit. These are exactly the kind of early results we look for in a discovery program - the system is open in every direction, and we've only just begun to explore its full potential." A "porphyry copper deposit" is a specific subtype genetically and structurally associated with porphyritic intrusive igneous rocks. These systems are among the world's largest sources of copper, often measuring 3-8 km across and containing hundreds of millions to billions of tonnes of ore, albeit at generally low copper grades (~0.2-1%). The PF-03A drill hole results confirm that the Passiflora target is a porphyry-style system-an encouraging outcome because such deposits have the potential to support long-life, large-scale mining operations. Summary Statistics Average CuEq : 0.2163% (2,163 ppm) : 0.2163% (2,163 ppm) Maximum CuEq : 0.7826% (7,826 ppm) - Sample 179326 : 0.7826% (7,826 ppm) - Sample 179326 Minimum CuEq : 0.0361% (361 ppm) - Sample 179211 : 0.0361% (361 ppm) - Sample 179211 Standard Deviation: ~0.146% Economics Average grade 0.2163% - well above typical porphyry cut-offs Key Observations Gold dominates the copper equivalent value (40.1%) the copper equivalent value (40.1%) Copper remains significant at 48.9% of total value at 48.9% of total value Economic continuity excellent with 47% of samples above cut-off with 47% of samples above cut-off Resource potential upgraded due to gold credit Deposit Classification This is a gold-rich porphyry copper deposit with: Primary copper mineralization (48.9% of value) Significant gold credits (40.1% of value) Supporting polymetallic credits (Zn, Mo, Pb Top 20 Highest Grade Intervals Rank Sample CuEq (%) Au (ppb) Cu (ppm) Pb (ppm) Zn (ppm) Mo (ppm) 1 179326 0.7826 835 1027 3481 2963 22 2 179242 0.7758 918 30 112 3413 140 3 179473 0.5547 209 944 10000 3244 168 4 179464 0.5221 615 3913 108 1320 22 5 179463 0.8912 534 4755 116 1120 28 6 179391 0.8034 428 3979 90 1520 17 7 179461 0.7966 459 4080 69 1200 18 8 179465 0.7815 488 3733 82 1260 15 9 179390 0.7774 412 3867 95 1410 16 10 179462 0.7633 381 3918 74 1240 14 11 179392 0.7475 384 3596 89 1380 13 12 179389 0.7320 356 3509 88 1320 12 13 179467 0.7144 341 3385 76 1180 11 14 179466 0.7044 329 3299 79 1150 10 15 179388 0.6991 324 3258 81 1140 9 16 179468 0.6902 312 3178 75 1110 8 17 179387 0.6779 298 3089 77 1080 7 18 179469 0.6720 289 3045 73 1050 6 19 179386 0.6636 281 2976 71 1020 5 20 179470 0.6584 275 2934 69 1000 4 Lead, zinc, and molybdenum are also present. Lead up to 1.02% Zinc up to 0.33% Molybdenum values reaching 892 ppm All 303 samples reported above the detection limit for gold, with scattered half-gram per ton results, with a high gold anomaly of 918 ppb Au. The hole is averaging 134.16 ppb Au. Copper grades consistently increased with depth, suggesting that stronger mineralization may continue beyond the current hole bottom. Anomalous zinc and lead were encountered throughout, with lead peaking at 1.02%. Gold was detected in every fire-assayed sample over the 843.9 metres, with values up to 918 ppb. With grades already above typical early porphyry exploration thresholds and nearly half our samples in the economic range, these results from hole PF-03A are an exceptional start. Drill Hole PF-03A Location and Cross Section Map To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2736/262389_0bc86a82f4e609b5_002full.jpg The Passiflora deep discovery hole is located approximately 3.2 km north of the town of Silver Cliff, within the Ben West volcanic center as mapped by the USGS (Sharp, 1978). The project remains open in all directions and at depth. 3-D view of the 3-D model clipped at less than 2 Ohm-m looking east. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2736/262389_0bc86a82f4e609b5_003full.jpg The main body of the conductive anomaly starts at a depth of ~400m and continues another ~1.5km, maybe deeper (this was the extent of the MT survey depth capability). The length of the anomaly is ~2.4km in the SW-NE direction with a width of at least 700m and an open interpretation in multiple directions. This represents a total volume of over 665,000,000m3 as determined by Quantec. Passiflora's early CuEq intercepts (~0.18-0.21% CuEq) sit within the range of early-stage results from some recognized world class porphyry discoveries. The results are encouraging, particularly because copper is increasing with depth and multiple metals are present. Next Steps Viscount's technical team is planning an expanded drilling campaign to test deeper into the Titan MT anomaly at the Passiflora and step out laterally to define the system's scale. Further metallurgical work will be undertaken to assess potential recovery rates for all metals. Qualified Persons The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Harald Hoegberg PG, an independent consulting geologist who is a "Qualified Person" (QP) as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). Sample Handling and Analytical Procedures. Drilling on the deep Passiflora target began on January 22, 2025 by Godbe Drilling from Montrose, CO. Core was placed in boxes and moved to Viscount's field camp in Silver Cliff for rock quality determinations and preliminary logging. The core boxes were palletized in the field camp and shipped with Old Dominion Freight to MLD, an independent contractor, based in Carlin, NV. The core was cut in half so 50% could be retained for later examination and analysis. The remaining 50% is the assay split used for the sample. It was photographed by MLD employees, and standards, blanks and duplicates were inserted at regular intervals as determined by Viscount's Silver Cliff "Silver Cliff Drill Program Procedures" by C. Ricks, an independent geologic consultant. The core samples were bagged and palletized by C. Ricks and shipped by Old Dominion Freight to SGS prep facility in Phoenix AZ. SGS added their QA/QC procedures. The samples then got shipped from SGS Phoenix facility to SGS analytical facility in Burnaby, B.C. Canada for ICP analysis with a method code description of: 4 Acid Digestion (HCL/HCLO4/HF/HNO3) ICP. Fire assay analysis for gold via FAA30V5 with a method code of Au, FAS, exploration grade, AAS. Assumptions for Copper Equivalent % Calculations Metal Prices - 2024 averages Cu $4.20/lb | Au $34,888.79/lb ($2,389/oz) | Pb $1.0345/lb | Zn $1.40/lb | Mo $22.50/lb Recovery Rates: - based on Western North American copper porphyry production disclosures Cu 90% | Au 70% | Pb 60% | Zn 67% | Mo 80% Formula Used: To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2736/262389_0bc86a82f4e609b5_004full.jpg About Viscount Mining (TSXV: VML) (OTCQB: VLMGF) Viscount Mining is a project generator and an exploration company with a portfolio of silver and gold properties in the Western United States, including Silver Cliff in Colorado and Cherry Creek in Nevada. The Silver Cliff property in Colorado lies within the historic Hardscrabble Silver District in the Wet Mountain Valley, Custer County, south-central Colorado. It is located 44 miles WSW of Pueblo, Colorado, and has year-around access by paved road. The property consists of 96 lode claims where high grade silver, gold and base metal production came from numerous mines during the period 1878 to the early 1900's. The property underwent substantial exploration between 1967 and 1984. The property is interpreted to encompass a portion of a large caldera and highly altered sequence of tertiary rhyolitic flows and fragmental units which offers potential to host deposits with both precious and base metals. This has been demonstrated in the mineralization historically extracted from the numerous underground and surface mining operations. Based on the accumulated data and feasibility study, Tenneco Minerals made the decision with silver at $5.00 USD an ounce to construct at that time a $35,000,000 USD milling operation for the extraction of the silver reserves at Silver Cliff. Shortly thereafter Tenneco's Mining Unit was sold, and the planned milling operation was abandoned. The Cherry Creek exploration property is in an area commonly known as the Cherry Creek Mining District, located approximately 50 miles north of the town of Ely, White Pine County, Nevada. Cherry Creek consists of 578 unpatented and 17 patented claims as well as mill rights. Cherry Creek includes more than 20 past producing mines. For additional information regarding the above noted property and other corporate information, please visit the Company's website at www.viscountmining.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS "Jim MacKenzie" President, CEO and Director Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to Viscount Mining's operations, exploration and development plans, expansion plans, estimates, expectations, forecasts, objectives, predictions and projections of the future. Specifically, this news release contains forward looking statements with respect to the actual size of the anomaly, feasibility, grade of mineralization and the content of the mineralization. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "projects", "intends", "anticipates", or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or "variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "can", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Viscount Mining to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to the exploration and development and operation of Viscount Mining's projects, the actual results of current exploration, development activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future precious metals prices, as well as those factors discussed in the sections relating to risk factors of our business filed in Viscount Mining's required securities filings on SEDARPlus. Although Viscount Mining has attempted to identify important factors that could cause results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, 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 will prove 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. Viscount Mining does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements 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/262389 SOURCE: Viscount Mining Corp. Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Bullion Gold Resources (TSXV: BGD) ("Bullion Gold" or the "Company") announces the completion of a field prospecting program on its wholly owned Bodo property, consisting of 761 mining claims covering 410 km, located in Eeyou-Istchee Baie-James, Northern Quebec. The Company confirms the presence of a Cu-Au-Ag-Zn corridor extending approximately 3 km north-south by 0.8 km wide along the Rivon Lake copper system. Highlights The Rivon showing extends approximately 3 km north-south and 800 metres east-west with the discovery of new mineralized occurrences. Preliminary data analysis indicates a new geological setting and metallogenic model. The Bodo exploration project represents a large-scale target for this type of metals in a historically underexplored region. This release presents preliminary observations from samples collected during the first half of the program, covering the eastern portion of the property. 2025 Exploration Program On June 1, the Company mobilized a four-person prospecting team from Val-d'Or, traveling to the property by land, about 240 km north of Chibougamau. All necessary equipment for the fly camp was transported by helicopter onto the property. The team worked using small boats and Argo all-terrain vehicles. Surface exploration work concluded in recent days. Nearly 400 samples were collected during this period. Full assay results are expected by the end of September. Lac Rivon 2025 Prospecting work during the first phase (June to July, 2025) targeted the Rivon block, from Lac Rivon to Lac Amiel (see linked map). Transects were initially planned using a combination of LiDAR topographic data, a government lake sediment survey, and historical prospecting results. On the ground, prospectors collected sulphide-bearing rocks with visible alteration minerals distributed over 3 km north-south and 800 m east-west. Chalcopyrite was observed in 20% of the samples (see photos) from the first group of 240 samples. Mineralization occurs as fine dissemination, veinlets, and centimetre-scale massive or semi-massive bands hosted in a mafic to ultramafic complex. Several target areas could not be visited due to a lack of rock outcrop, as the terrain is covered in overburden and moraine in many places. Intrusions of granitic to syenitic composition were observed in the sampling. Examination of the samples identified alteration minerals hosting the copper mineralization, including actinolite-tremolite, diopside, magnetite, epidote, potassium feldspar, biotite, and chlorite. The mineralized structures form continuous corridors correlated along a north-south axis based on field observations and the extent of the alteration system. Mineralization shows a brittle style (fractures and veins) superimposed on the regional deformation. Observations are consistent with an intrusive-related mineralization model. "It's exciting to see the potential of this project. Several mineralized zones were visited in recent weeks, and chalcopyrite was observed in many locations. Unfortunately, several of our targets could not be visited due to thick vegetation cover, notably the Papas and Lac Denos zones. For now, the Company will focus its efforts on the Rivon showing. Compilation of upcoming results will determine the future work plan," stated the Company's CEO, Guy Morissette. Geology and Cu-Au-Ag-Zn Potential The Bodo property covers part of the Tichegami Group, composed of rhyolite, ultramafic intrusions, and banded iron formations (BIF). East-west to strongly northeast-trending structural zones were previously identified in a regional magnetic survey, defining large exploration targets, including the strong Rivon Lake magnetic anomaly, characterized by a semi-circular magnetic contrast 1.6 km wide. The eastern Rivon Lake area was tested by a series of short drill holes in the early 1960s. Twenty-four (GM-14058) drill holes were recorded from historical data. These drillings intersected intervals containing copper, gold, zinc, and silver. Surface work completed in 2024 also reported the presence of cobalt and lead. Following this program, the Company aims to highlight significant copper potential in an underexplored region. The Company is considering conducting a Mag-TDEM airborne survey covering the entire Rivon showing and ultramafic units detected by ground exploration. Depending on the results, a first drilling program could be conducted in fall-winter 2025-2026. Exploration Work on the Amiel and Cabat Blocks of the Bodo Project The Company also completed extensive prospecting and sampling on the Amiel and Cabat blocks, located in the western part of the Bodo project. These works identified new copper- and sulphide-bearing zones on all visited targets (see photos). However, lack of outcrops and difficult access prevented full coverage of these two blocks. More than 100 samples were collected from these two blocks, which will be sent to the AGAT Laboratory in Mississauga for preparation. Results are expected by the end of September 2025. Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) The position of each sample was determined using a handheld GPS, implying an uncertainty of 1 to 3 metres for certain locations. It should be noted that channel and glacial float samples have limited spatial representativity. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information related to Bullion Gold contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Gilles Laverdiere, P.Geo. Mr. Laverdiere is a director of the Company and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). About Bullion Gold Resources Bullion Gold is a mineral exploration company focused on the discovery and development of gold and polymetallic projects in Quebec. For more information, please visit: www.bulliongold.ca. For further information, please contact: Other Information The TSX Venture Exchange and its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts no responsibility for the veracity or accuracy of its content. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. The forward-looking statements are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Corporation. Although Bullion Gold believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because Bullion Gold can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to several factors and risks. In addition to other risks that may affect the forward-looking statements in this press release are those set out in the Corporation's management discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, which are available on the Corporation's profile at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and Bullion Gold undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262466 SOURCE: Bullion Gold Resources Corporation NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Crypto Funds Watch, a monthly publication with a curated community of more than 4,000 institutional professionals in the crypto funds sector, has announced the successful acquisition of CryptoFund.News, a niche news outlet exclusively covering crypto hedge funds, crypto quants, and digital asset managers. Founded in 2020, the team behind CryptoFund.News has deep roots in the digital assets space, with extensive involvement in several crypto hedge funds and asset management firms. Under the acquisition,Crypto Funds Watch delivers timely insights and in-depth analysis across the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, targeting a high-value audience including crypto hedge and venture funds, high-net-worth individuals, fund of funds, pension funds, and endowments. Coverage spans capital raising, fund launches, acquisitions, investment strategies, personnel moves, and allocation trends-keeping its readership fully informed on critical developments in the digital asset sector. The acquisition brings together two highly specialized platforms with complementary strengths. Crypto Funds Watch's focused reporting and engaged institutional audience align seamlessly with CryptoFund.News' legacy of dedicated coverage for the crypto funds ecosystem. About CryptoFund.News CryptoFund.News was founded in 2020 by Marc P. Bernegger , a serial tech entrepreneur active in emerging industries for over two decades. Marc has built, sold and invested in numerous ventures. He explored Bitcoin in 2012 and has been investing in crypto hedge funds since 2018. About Crypto Funds Watch Crypto Funds Watch is a monthly publication dedicated to the intersection of cryptocurrency and institutional capital. Through exclusive insights, breaking news, and expert analysis, CFW serves as a vital information hub for decision-makers in the global crypto funds industry. Website: cryptofunds.watch Contact: Email: contact@cryptofunds.watch View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/crypto-funds-watch-acquires-cryptofundnews-302528624.html TEL AVIV, IL / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Sativus Tech Corp (OTC PINK:SATT) Saffron Tech proudly announces the close of its latest campaign on the Pipelbiz platform, securing 2.1 million NIS at a pre-money valuation of $12 million. This milestone brings Saffron Tech closer to launching its first commercial vertical farming facility, equipped with cutting-edge CES technology. "We're thrilled by our investors' strong support," said Michael Oster, CEO of Saffron Tech. "This funding at a $12 million valuation affirms our vision and speeds our path to market. With demand for saffron rising across food, pharmaceutical, and wellness sectors, we're set for steady growth and ongoing innovation." As governments worldwide tighten restrictions on synthetic food dyes due to health and environmental concerns, demand for natural and organic alternatives is surging. Saffron, prized for its unique flavor, vibrant color, and wellness benefits, is emerging as a premium natural ingredient in food, beverages, and skincare products. Using advanced indoor vertical farming technology, Saffron Tech meets this growing market demand by producing authentic crocus sativus saffron in six-week growth cycles. Unlike traditional farming, this controlled environment guarantees consistent quality, volume, and pricing, free from seasonal fluctuations and supply chain disruptions. As a result, Saffron Tech is a trusted supplier for food, beverage, and beauty brands seeking scalable, high-quality saffron ingredients. Internationally recognized actor and wellness advocate Moran Atias has joined Saffron Tech as brand ambassador and strategic investor, strengthening the company's expansion into the beauty and wellness markets. Her global presence and credibility amplify Saffron Tech's mission to deliver premium saffron extracts across industries, with a special focus on natural and effective skincare solutions. Saffron Tech's saffron is cultivated under optimal conditions to ensure maximum potency. It is rich in natural compounds known for brightening skin, calming inflammation, and strengthening the skin barrier. This allows beauty brands to access a consistent, high-performance natural ingredient year-round, backed by reliable quality, stable pricing, and scalable supply. About Saffron Tech Saffron Tech, a subsidiary of Sativus Tech Corp (OTC PINK:SATT), is redefining saffron cultivation with proprietary controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technology that enables indoor, year-round production of premium Crocus sativus saffron. By solving traditional supply chain challenges, Saffron Tech aims to make saffron more accessible across the culinary, nutraceutical, and beauty industries. Stay connected with Sativus Tech for the latest developments by following the company on LinkedIn. About Sativus Tech Corp Sativus Tech is an Agri-FoodTech company focused on advanced vertical farming and AI-driven cultivation to grow high-demand, low-supply crops. Its mission is to enhance food system resilience while creating new opportunities across health, wellness, and sustainable agriculture. Stay connected with Sativus Tech for the latest developments by following the company on LinkedIn. Investor Relations Contact: Michael Oster, CEO info@saffron.ag (800) 608-6432 SOURCE: Saffron Tech Corp. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/agriculture/saffron-tech-reaches-13m-valuation-in-successful-crowdfunding-campaign-led-by-hollywood-1060938 Move comes amid increased demand for Sekur solutions from the crypto community targeted by cyber hackers worldwide VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 18, 2025 / Sekur Private Data Ltd. (OTCQB:SWISF)(CSE:SKUR)(FRA:GDT0) ("Sekur" or the "Company"), a leading Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and private communications platform, is pleased to announce that it has received approval from its Management to accept crypto currency as a form of payment for Sekur's Swiss hosted privacy communications solutions. The previous press release of August 14th erroneously stated that the approval came from the Auditors of the Company. The Company wishes to apologize for any confusion this may have caused. The Company's Management has given the go ahead to integrate with its existing payment processor, giving Sekur the possibility of accepting any crypto currency while settling in fiat currencies. The Company's payment processor is already SOC 2 certified and expects the integration to be completed by Q4of this year, barring any unforeseen event. According to a Chainanalysis study, with over US$2.17 billion stolen from cryptocurrency services so far in 2025, this year is more devastating than the entirety of 2024. By the end of June 2025, 17% more value had been stolen year-to-date (YTD) than in 2022, previously the worst year on record. Personal wallet compromises now represent a growing share of total ecosystem theft, with attackers increasingly targeting individual users, making up 23.35% of all stolen fund activity YTD in 2025. Sekur's new demand from the crypto community is due to the explosion in Business Email Compromise ("BEC") attacks, SMS Fishing and chat applications hacks all big tech open source solutions. Sekur's communications suite of Email, Chat and VPN, offerscountermeasures to BEC attacks through its SekurSend proprietary feature, and offers other protections against internet spying on VPN users and messaging hacks such as the latest WhatsApp or Signal hacking incidents reported in the press. Sekur's new features include 20 alias emails for Individual plans, catering to an increasingly private clientele, notably the crypto community, offering full anonymity and protection against cyber hackers. SekurMessenger offers privacy through its no phone number registered policy, while offering chats between SekurMessenger and non-SekurMessenger users through its chat by invite feature. These added security protections offer extra shield against identity theft. Sekur's platform is proprietary and hosted in Switzerland for optimal security and privacy compliance. It offers multiple privacy advantages, such as no contact or data mining, no location mining and secure and private communication within and outside of the Sekur network, offering privacy and security for both sender and recipient without divulging either phone number or identity, using its SekurSend and Chat by Invite features. Alain Ghiai, CEO of Sekur stated, "We are very pleased to have our existing SOC2 Compliant payment processor offer Crypto conversion to USD for our Sekur solutions payments. With this, Sekur can now increase its reach to a new market looking for protection from identity theft. This environment is perfect to increase Sekur's awareness as we are off grid, off big tech and we never data mine or location mine your communications. Sekur is meant to protect against phishing, Business Email Compromise attacks, AI hacks, and chat and SMS hacks. " Swiss Privacy Protection Sekur's solutions are hosted exclusively in Switzerland, ensuring user data remains secure from external data access requests. Switzerland's robust Federal Act on Data Protection, in place since 1993, upholds strict privacy standards, prohibiting unauthorized data processing and protecting against the publication of information based on leaked "secret official discussions." This regulatory framework provides a unique level of data privacy protection, reinforcing Sekur's commitment to safeguarding user information. About Sekur Private Data Ltd. Sekur Private Data Ltd. is a Swiss-hosted cybersecurity and privacy communications provider. offering a secure suite of tools to protect governments, businesses and individuals from unauthorized access and cyber threats. With solutions such as SekurMail, SekurMessenger, and SekurVPN, Sekur provides an accessible and reliable means of digital communication and data storage, grounded in Swiss privacy standards. Sekur sells its solutions through its website www.sekur.com , approved distributors and telecommunications companies globally. Sekur serves governments, businesses and consumers worldwide. CONTACT Alain Ghiai President and Chief Executive Officer SEKUR PRIVATE DATA LTD. Email: investors@sekur.com www.sekurprivatedata.com Tel: +1.305.347.5114 Follow Sekur on: X LinkedIn YouTube For sales brochure on our enterprise security solutions, or partnership opportunities, contact: partners@sekur.com. To find out more about Sekur's privacy communications solutions visit: https://sekur.com For more company information, please visit: https://sekurprivatedata.com Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "achieve", "could", "believe", "plan", "intend", "objective", "continuous", "ongoing", "estimate", "outlook", "expect", "project" and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they do not guarantee future performance. Sekur cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond Sekur's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the future of the Company's business; the success of marketing and sales efforts of the Company; the projections prepared in house and projections delivered by channel partners; the Company's ability to complete the necessary software updates; increases in sales as a result of investments software development technology; consumer interest in the Products; future sales plans and strategies; reliance on large channel partners and expectations of renewals to ongoing agreements with these partners; anticipated events and trends; the economy and other future conditions; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Sekur's prospectus dated May 8, 2019, filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedarplus.ca. 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, Sekur undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information. SOURCE: Sekur Private Data Ltd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/sekur-private-data-ltd.-receives-management-approval-to-accept-cr-1062656 DALLAS, TX / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Mary Kay: Originally published on https://newsroom.marykay.com/ Mary Kay Inc., a global leader in direct selling and skin innovation, announces the launch of its cutting-edge AI Foundation Finder - an intuitive technology designed to help consumers effortlessly find their foundation match, while empowering Mary Kay independent beauty consultants to guide their customers in finding the right match - right from their phones. A first in the direct selling industry, this AI Foundation Finder uses advanced artificial intelligence to scan a customer's face on their mobile phone and provide personalized shade recommendations in just seconds. What sets this AI-powered tool apart is that it is informed by a scientifically developed scale offering an inclusive and nuanced understanding of human skin tones. The technology captures the user's skin tone using their camera and then matches it to the most accurate Mary Kay foundation shade by analyzing the user's skin tone and the corresponding RGB values of the Mary Kay foundation products[1]. Mary Kay holds exclusive rights to the tool, making it a true direct selling industry disruptor[2]. "AI Foundation Finder fuels our vision to be a beauty disruptor in the direct selling space and beyond," said Dr. Lucy Gildea, Mary Kay's Chief Brand and Scientific Officer. "We are pioneering AI shade matching globally, helping consumers meet their foundation match within the diverse range of foundation finishes in the Mary Kay Flawless Face portfolio. Embracing beauty tech marks a unique opportunity to elevate the category and cultivate our next-generation beauty community." The AI Foundation Finder aligns with a rising demand for hyper personalized, tech-enabled beauty solutions amid broader cultural and technological shifts. As the #1 Direct Selling Brand of Skin Care and Color Cosmetics in the World by Euromonitor International for three consecutive years[3] in 2023, 2024, and again in 2025, this launch further reflects Mary Kay's commitment to digital innovation, inclusivity, and empowering our beauty entrepreneurs around the world. "The launch of our AI-powered Foundation Finder reflects a continued commitment to innovation in personalized beauty," said James Whatley, Mary Kay's Chief Information Officer. "By leveraging an exclusive AI technology in the Direct Selling channel, we're able to provide shade recommendations in seconds, while making the consumer experience intuitive, inclusive, and enjoyable. Our Mary Kay independent beauty consultants will now have a powerful digital partner that elevates their business, enhances customer trust, and reimagines how beauty is delivered in a tech-enabled world." The tool is now available in select markets and will be rolling out globally in the coming months. For more information, please visit here. AI Foundation Finder Highlights: Beauty tech: The user's camera captures real-time tracking of the user's input video or images with precise detection of 151 facial feature points. Inclusiveness: The Mary Kay AI Foundation Finder is based on a proprietary 10-shade scale designed to accurately represent a wide range of human skin tones with inclusivity and precision in mind. Performance: In our consumer tests, 83% of consumers expressed that they would be likely to purchase their recommended match. In the Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant (IBC) tests, 100% of the Mary Kay IBCs said they would be very likely to use the tool in their business. Access: AI Foundation Finder is integrated into the online shopping experience, accessible from www.marykay.com or through the iCatalog, consumers can easily scan and instantaneously find their foundation match. Privacy: The AI Foundation Finder does not store or process biometric data. About Mary Kay One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women's lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 40 markets. For over 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on X. [1] RGB code stands for red, green, and blue code. It is a color model used in digital imaging and computer graphics to represent colors. Each color is represented by a combination of red, green, and blue values, typically ranging from 0 to 255. [2] Mary Kay Inc. holds the exclusive rights to the tool for the first 12 months from launch. [3] "Source Euromonitor International Limited; Beauty and Personal Care 2025 Edition, value sales at RSP, 2024 data" "The launch of our AI-powered Foundation Finder reflects a continued commitment to innovation in personalized beauty," said James Whatley, Mary Kay's Chief Information Officer. "By leveraging an exclusive AI technology in the Direct Selling channel, we're able to provide shade recommendations in seconds, while making the consumer experience intuitive, inclusive, and enjoyable. Our Mary Kay independent beauty consultants will now have a powerful digital partner that elevates their business, enhances customer trust, and reimagines how beauty is delivered in a tech-enabled world." (Photo Courtesy: Mary Kay Inc.) View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Mary Kay on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Mary Kay Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/mary-kay Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Mary Kay View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/face-the-future-mary-kays-ai-foundation-finder-poised-to-disrupt-1061071 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - New Zealand Energy Corp. (TSXV: NZ) ("NZEC" or the "Company") announced today it has filed its condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the six months ended June 30, 2025, the accompanying management's discussion and analysis, and related certifications, which documents are available on the Company's website at www.newzealandenergy.com and on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Commenting on the Company's second quarter 2025 results, CEO Mike Adams said: "The results saw a total comprehensive loss of $2,567,631. (2024: loss of $2,100,963). There was a $978,151 decrease in cash held ($61,250 was held at the end of the quarter). Cash used in operating activities for the quarter was $676,152 (2024: used $1,541,045)." NZEC also provides the following updates on the Copper Moki workovers and Waihapa Ngaere production. Copper Moki Production Copper Moki-1 was successfully recompleted with production commencing in late July 2025. Both Copper Moki-1 and Copper Moki-2 are now producing together with aggregate production rates of ~105 BOE/d (~90 bopd). These rates are improving as the wells produce out completion fluids and pump speeds are increased slowly to match reservoir inflows to pump rates. Mr. Adams, CEO of NZEC commented: "The resumption of oil and gas production at the Copper Moki site provides the Company with reliable oil production and, importantly, a continuous supply of gas for both the Copper Moki site and the Waihapa Production Station. The supply of continuous associated gas to Waihapa unlocks the ability to return some of the Waihapa-Ngaere wells to continuous production and enable gas exports to market, which we expect to commence later in Q3." Both Copper Moki workovers were carried out in partnership with Monumental Energy Corp. (TSXV: MNRG), as previously announced. Waihapa Ngaere Production (JV - NZEC share 50%) Oil and gas production from Waihapa-Ngaere recommenced in late March 2025 beginning with 4 wells operating on periodic well unloads without the use of gas-lift. Following a successful recommissioning of the Ngaere-1 pipeline in July, production from that well re-commenced mid July 2025 with flush rates of more than 400 bbls of oil produced in one day. As a result, the field production rates are temporarily limited to the rate at which the Waihapa Production Station can hold oil in tanks onsite for stabilization and then truck oil to the port. Over the last two weeks, the trucking has averaged ~190 bbls per day (NZEC share ~95 bbls per day). The focus for Waihapa Ngaere for the next month is to remove system bottlenecks so that the increased oil rate can be produced continuously and transported to port via the oil pipeline. Mr. Adams, CEO of NZEC commented: "The result from Ngaere-1 is welcome and is much better than we anticipated. Nevertheless, we should keep in mind that this is a fractured reservoir, and it is near impossible to predict when water will arrive in Ngaere-1. On the other hand, Ngaere-1 is demonstrably oil bearing at 15m downdip from the Waihapa-H1 well, which does need work to be returned to continuous production. The Ngaere-1 result means that we have prioritized the Waihapa-H1 well work for implementation in the next quarter." Subsequent to the quarter end NZEC successfully completed a non-brokered private placement of $2,718,640 on 18 July 2025 and successfully terminated the loan to Vliet Financing B.V of $2,000,000 plus accrued interest. On behalf of the Board of Directors "Michael Adams" CEO Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Information: This news release contains "forward-looking information" 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 regarding: the business of the Company, including future plans and objectives, the Copper Moki workover project, Waihapa Ngaere production. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. This forward-looking information reflects NZEC's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to NZEC and on assumptions NZEC believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to: the underlying value of NZEC and its Common Shares, NZEC's current and initial understanding and analysis of its projects and the development required for such projects; the costs of NZEC's projects; NZEC's general and administrative costs remaining constant; and the market acceptance of NZEC's business strategy. 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 NZEC 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; industry condition; volatility of commodity prices; imprecision of reserve estimates; environmental risks; operational risks in exploration and development; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; delay or failure to receive board or regulatory approvals; the actual results of future operations; competition; changes in legislation, including environmental legislation, affecting NZEC; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; 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 NZEC's disclosure documents on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Although NZEC has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. 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 NZEC as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. However, NZEC 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 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262447 SOURCE: New Zealand Energy Corp. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Sage Potash Corp. (TSXV: SAGE) (OTCQB: SGPTF) ("Sage Potash" or the "Company"), a Canadian company focused on developing its Sage Plain Potash Project located in the Paradox Basin, Utah, is pleased to announce the appointment of The Honourable Stockwell Day to the company's board of directors. "Mr. Day's appointment represents a significant milestone for Sage and underscores our ability to develop this critical mineral potash deposit in the US. Stockwell's experience in trade and security with successive U.S. Administrations will greatly assist Sage in today's new trade environment", said Chief Executive Officer Peter Hogendoorn. Mr. Day is a highly respected Canadian political leader who served federally as a Member of Parliament between 2000 and 2011, and provincially as a member of the Alberta Legislative Assembly between 1986 and 2000. As a member of the federal Conservative Party of Canada, Mr. Day was the President of the Treasury Board of Canada for a two-year period prior to his retirement from politics in 2011 to pursue corporate and business trade opportunities. During his time in Ottawa, he held several senior portfolios including Minister of Public Safety and Minister of International Trade. While holding these positions he worked directly with successive US administrations on critical issues such as border security and key trade negotiations. In addition, Mr. Day was also Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, and the Regional Minister for British Columbia. At the provincial level, Mr. Day served for 14 years as a member of the Alberta Legislature and was the Provincial Treasurer and Acting Premier for three years during 1997-2000. Mr. Day has established many long-term global relationships, particularly in China, Japan, South Korea and India as well as the current US administration. He currently serves on the boards of RCI Capital Group and Strategem Capital, and former member of the World Trade Organization, the Canada India Business Council and was awarded for his work on the Canada China Business Council. About Sage Potash Corp. Sage Potash is a Canadian company vested solely in the Sage Plain Property and intends through sustainable solution mining techniques to become a prominent domestic potash producer within the Paradox Basin situated in Utah. For further information, please refer to the Company's disclosure record on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) or contact the Company by email at info@sagepotash.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Peter Hogendoorn President and Chief Executive Officer (604) 764-2158 sagepotash.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. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. The forward-looking statements herein are made as of the date of this news release only, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budgets", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "projects", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to future events or future performance of Sage Potash and with respect to the Offering, including the use of proceeds thereof. 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 risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors and Uncertainties" in the Company's Management's Discussion & Analysis available for review under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Such forward-looking information represents management's best judgement based on information currently available. 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 or information. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262481 SOURCE: Sage Potash Corp. TORONTO, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- InfraRed Capital Partners ("InfraRed"), a leading international infrastructure asset manager, and a part of Sun Life, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Rogers Communications' data centres business, on behalf of InfraRed's value-add strategy. With nine Tier 2 and 3 data centres across key Canadian cities, the business has an established footprint, a strong operational team, and a long-standing, diverse customer base across a range of industries. The business is well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of customers with up to 49 MW of capacity and a range of secure colocation, cloud, and managed services, delivered within a framework of Canadian data sovereignty and in-country cloud infrastructure. This investment is firmly aligned to InfraRed's Value-add approach to invest in companies that demonstrate long-term growth potential, supported by strong underlying fundamentals, and with experienced management teams. Pilar Banegas, Partner, InfraRed, commented: "This investment represents an exciting opportunity for us to drive value in an established business, capitalising on the rising demand for secure and reliable data centre services, within one of the most attractive segments of the Canadian digital infrastructure market. "We will leverage our knowledge of the market and our deep data centre experience, built from investments such as Nexspace, our European data centre platform, to help realise its potential. Furthermore, we can also draw on our owner Sun Life's significant presence in Canada to inform our approach." Completion of the transaction is expected by the end of the year, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approval. About InfraRed Capital Partners ("InfraRed") InfraRed is a leading international mid-market infrastructure asset manager. Over the past 25 years, InfraRed has established itself as a highly successful developer, particularly in early-stage projects, and an active steward of essential infrastructure. InfraRed manages US$13bn of equity capital [1] for investors around the globe in listed and private funds across both core and value-add strategies. InfraRed combines a global reach, operating worldwide from offices in London, Madrid, New York, Sydney and Seoul, with deep sector expertise from a team of more than 160 people. InfraRed is part of SLC Management, the institutional alternatives and traditional asset management business of Sun Life, and benefits from its scale and global platform. For more information, please visit www.ircp.com. [1] Uses 5-year average FX as at 31st December 2024 of GBP/USD of 1.2818; EUR/USD 1.1092. EUM is USD 13.186m. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/infrared-capital-partners-to-acquire-data-centre-business-from-rogers-communications-302530156.html VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GoldHaven Resources Corp. ("GoldHaven" or the "Company") (CSE: GOH) (OTCQB: GHVNF) (FSE: 4QS) is pleased to provide an update following further studies and interpretation completed on its Magno Project (the "Project") located in northern British Columbia ("BC"), Canada. The Project is a district-scale polymetallic property situated in the Liard Mining Division, adjacent to the historic Cassiar mining district in Northern BC, Canada The Company holds 100% ownership of the Magno mineral claims in British Columbia. The Project spans 30,573.53 hectares and is situated within the historically rich Liard Mining Division. The Project is accessible via Highway 37, which crosses the southeastern claim area, providing good access for future exploration and development work. ? Figure 1: Magno property with BC regional geology highlighting historical work and present showings The Magno Project hosts several critical metals, including tin (Tn), indium (In), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag) gold (Au), tungsten (W), and gallium (Ga) which are essential for various industries, including electronics, defense, batteries, and green energy technologies. Additionally, the Project hosts several different styles of base metal (zinc-lead) mineralization, including skarn and carbonate replacement styles along with potential for deeper porphyry-associated copper-molybdenum-tin mineralization. GoldHaven is looking to apply new geological research to potentially overlooked areas to analyze a broad range of these critical and strategic metals to vector in on potential porphyry mineralization. Critical Metals at Magno: A Strategic Opportunity Data from the Magno historical workings highlight the potential for significant concentrations of technology-critical metals in addition to the established base and precious metal potential. As global industries face supply shortages of indium, tin, gallium, tungsten and strategic base metals like zinc, Magno presents an attractive opportunity in a geopolitically stable and mining-friendly jurisdiction of Canada. The Project covers the contact zone between the mid-Cretaceous-aged Cassiar Batholith and the late Proterozoic to late Paleozoic carbonate and clastic sedimentary rocks of the Cassiar Terrane. Base metal (zinc-lead) rich skarn and carbonate replacement mineralization, often associated with significant silver values, are widespread in the region, including on the Project. Additional historical insight identified, geochemically anomalous molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), tin and tungsten values associated with Late Cretaceous intrusions, including the 7 by 30 km Cassiar or Troutline Creek stock, which intrude the Cassiar Terrane proximal to the Cassiar Batholith. The mineralized granitic intrusions may also be the source of the skarn and carbonate replacement mineralization in the intruded sedimentary sequence. In addition to the historical Zn-Pb-Ag and Cu-Mo mineralization, reconnaissance sampling by Johnston (2024) indicates anomalous indium and additional support for tin as potential critical metal additions. Recent research published on skarn deposits in SE China (Tan, 2024) suggests that variations in the indium/zinc ratios in skarn environments may provide a vector towards the causative source intrusion(s) and possible associated Cu-Mo+/-Sn-W mineralization. Johnston took six confirmatory samples which returned indium values ranging from 1.1 to 63.8 ppm, with three of the six samples greater than 40 ppm. Additionally, a verified sample from the Kuhn showing taken in 2019 by Fundamental Resources (AR 38356) contained 85.20 ppm indium, suggesting potential of the Cassiar Terrane to yield indium mineralization. Tin and zinc values were significant ranging from 110 to 1749 ppm tin and up to 5.58% zinc in Johnston's samples. This research directly supports the exploration model at Magno, where high indium values in the skarns could indicate proximity to deeper, potentially undiscovered Cu-Mo porphyry bodies. This growing body of evidence reinforces the strategic significance of the Property, not only for traditional base and precious metals but also for critical metals. Gallium and germanium are additional critical metals that may be present on the property and will be a focus for future work. This field season, GoldHaven will look to explore the skarns with detailed geochemical analysis of Ag, Zn, Sn, In, W and Ga and correlate this data to the magmatic source of mineralization in the granites. With Mo porphyries already known to be present in the region, the Company believes the potential of locating Mo-Cu porphyry mineralization on the Magno property is very high. Tin (Sn): A Critical Metal for Electronics & Battery Storage Tin is an essential component of electronic circuits, lithium-ion batteries, and soldering materials, with increasing demand due to the electrification of transportation and grid storage solutions. Magno Project Key Grades Identified: 5,200 ppm Sn (Middle D Zone, Eveready 2002) 5,199 ppm Sn (Pant N Zone, Eveready 2003) 2,097 ppm Sn (Magno North, Eveready 2003) 1,749 ppm Sn (Middle D, Johnston 2023) ? Tin, a critical metal for electronics & battery storage , is an essential component of electronic circuits, lithium-ion batteries, and soldering materials, with increasing demand due to the electrification of transportation and grid storage solutions. In 1978, sampling by the BC Department of Mines identified anomalous tin values on the current property. Follow-up sampling of old CCS drill core by Shell Canada in 1979 returned several anomalous tin intercepts, mainly from the Middle D Zone ranging up to 6.5% Sn over 0.9 metres. The results of samples which returned greater than 1000 ppm Sn are presented in Table 2. Sampler Year Location Sample ID Sn (tin) Shell Canada 1979 Middle D R-8 0.86%/3.0m Shell Canada 1979 Middle D R-3 0.9%/0.9m Shell Canada 1979 Middle D R-3 0.33%/1.2m Shell Canada 1979 Middle D R-10 6.5%/0.9m Shell Canada 1979 Middle West Hole not specified 0.32%/4.6m Shell Canada 1979 Tremolite H-1 0.2%/2.0m Eveready 2003 Magno North 7875 1940 ppm Eveready 2003 Magno North 7878 2097 ppm Eveready 2002 Middle D 7700 5200 ppm Eveready 2003 Pant North 7854 5199 ppm Johnston 2023 Middle D 725610 1749 ppm Table 1: Anomalous Tin Results from the Magno Property (see Magno 43-101 filed on SEDAR+) *This work was carried out prior to the introduction of NI 43-101 and the results have not been verified by a Qualified Person, except for the samplings by Johnston and Eveready, and hence cannot be relied upon. However, the company believes the results presented suggest the possibility of previously unrecognized tin mineralization on the property. Verifying this potential will be one of the objectives of the 2025 summer work program. Indium (In): A High-Tech & Green Energy Essential Indium is a critical metal for semiconductors, solar panels and LCD displays primarily recovered as a byproduct of zinc mining and smelting. Reconnaissance sampling on the Magno Project combined with recent confirmatory sampling by Johnston, a Qualified Person, suggests potential for significant quantities of indium associated with the known zinc mineralization. Three of six samples collected by Johnston from the Magno Project for confirmation returned indium values exceeding 40 ppm In, all ranging from 1.2 to 63.8 ppm In. Indium is indispensable to modern technology, as it is a key component of indium-tin oxide (ITO), the transparent conducting film used in virtually all flat-panel displays and touchscreens. Its unique combination of transparency, electrical conductivity, and strong adherence to glass makes it irreplaceable for applications in smartphones, tablets, televisions, and high-tech architectural glass coatings. With 65% of global indium consumption driven by electronic displays, demand continues to rise. Recognizing its strategic importance, indium is included on the Canadian Geological Survey's list of 34 critical minerals. The United States is entirely reliant on imports to meet its indium demand, consuming 170 metric tons in 2018 from sources such as China (27%), Canada (22%), South Korea (11%), and Taiwan (10%). Zinc (Zn): A Base Metal with Green Energy Potential Zinc is an essential industrial metal, used in galvanisation, batteries and green energy technologies. The Magno Property hosts widespread zinc mineralization with associated lead and silver values in several different geological settings. Magno Project Key Grades Identified: 41% Zn (Magno South, Eveready 2004) 6.2% Zn, 28.2% Pb, 820 g/t Ag over 1.2m (Magno North, Eveready 2003) 16% Zn, 1.3% Pb, 19.3 g/t Ag, 0.9 g/t Au over 4.3m (Magno North, Eveready 2003) 7.4% Zn, 14.2% Pb, 398 g/t Ag (Upper D Zone, Eveready 2002) Historic work from at least the 1960s onwards has mainly focussed on the zinc-lead-silver potential of the known carbonate replacement deposits, particularly the Middle D and Magno deposits. Several historic reserves/resources have been defined, but since all pre-date the introduction of NI 43-101 and the work was not carried out under the supervision of a Qualified Person, these results cannot be relied upon. They do however provide a starting point for new exploration using updated geological knowledge, improved deposit models and modern geophysical and geochemical techniques and interpretations. Limited recent sampling carried out by Johnston, who is a Qualified Person, confirmed the widespread nature of zinc mineralization on the property. Of the six samples he collected, four exceeded 0.5% Zn with a maximum of 5.58% Zn. Silver (Ag): Indispensable Metal in Modern Industry Silver continues to play a critical role across a wide range of industrial applications. Today, it is essential in the production of solder and brazing alloys, batteries, dental materials, glass coatings, LED chips, medical devices, nuclear technology, photography, solar (photovoltaic) energy, RFID chips used for global shipment tracking, semiconductors, touch screens, water purification systems, wood preservatives, and numerous other technologies. The Washington-based Silver Institute aptly refers to silver as "the indispensable metal," highlighting its widespread utility. Over the past decade, leading industrial consumers of silver have included the United States, Canada, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Germany, and Russia. While demand from traditional sectors has declined, it has been offset by increasing use in emerging and advanced technologies, underscoring silver's enduring importance in the global economy. The Magno Property continues to exhibit strong potential for high-grade silver, along with associated lead and zinc within replacement skarn systems, historical exploration targets that, despite their promise, were never advanced into a NI 43-101 compliant resource. Recent sampling has confirmed significant silver grades which reinforce the high-grade nature typical of this deposit style. While these results are compelling, they represent only one aspect of a broader geological picture. GoldHaven's exploration strategy remains focused on a larger-scale opportunity, using these mineralized showings and newly collected data to guide the search for a potential buried porphyry system within the region. Type Source Year Sample_ID Ag ppm Au ppb Pb ppm Zn ppm Rock AR27203 2002 7664 2280 535 630000 6500 Rock AR27337 2003 7880 2220 1360 740000 4684 Rock AR27203 2002 7836 1640 1150 440000 18500 Rock AR27337 2003 7870 1500 525 596000 7644 Rock AR27337 2003 7868 1460 475 381000 36500 Rock AR27203 2002 7839 1340 730 535000 32500 Rock AR27203 2002 7844 1340 1550 445000 5208 Rock AR27337 2003 7869 820 240 282000 61900 Table 2 - Top Silver samples from the 2002-2003 Eveready projects (AR2720 & AR7337 J. Pautler) Type Source Year Sample_ID Zn ppm Ag ppm Au ppm Pb ppm Rock AR27337 2003 7877 263000 12.50 60 21100 Rock AR27337 2003 7875 210000 15.30 2540 13700 Rock AR27203 2002 7693 195000 208.00 475 1566 Rock AR27337 2003 7873 193000 176.00 235 2188 Rock AR27337 2003 7882 164000 76.80 1230 17800 Rock AR27203 2002 7691 109000 43.50 85 2764 Rock AR27203 2002 7662 74000 398.00 890 142000 Rock AR27337 2003 7884 69800 352.00 625 87600 Rock AR27337 2003 7871 67400 470.00 545 176000 Table 3 - Top Zinc samples from the 2002-2003 Eveready projects (AR2720 & AR7337 J. Pautler) Tungsten (W): Resurgence as Prime Military Metal Tungsten has emerged as a critical mineral of strategic importance due to its unmatched physical properties and indispensable role in high-performance applications. With the highest melting point of any metal and exceptional density and hardness, tungsten is essential to modern defense systems, including armor-piercing munitions, kinetic energy penetrators, and aircraft turbine components. Its resilience to extreme temperatures and wear makes it equally vital in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and nuclear energy. These characteristics, combined with a lack of viable substitutes, position tungsten as a cornerstone of national security and industrial competitiveness. The Kuhn and Dead Goat showings which correlate to GoldHaven's unverified inferred resource is reflective of Skarn replacement of tungsten, molybdenum and minor copper. This area much like the Ag, Pb, Zn replacements are situated with the Cambrian stratigraphy of the Cassiar terrane. The Atan Group limestones, marbles and calcareous sedimentary rocks character of this group provide the best lithological host for such a deposit style. Below, verified surface samples are expressive of the grades which made up the inferred resource in the area. GoldHaven will be looking into verifying these results and more in the coming weeks during the field program. Type Source Year Sample_ID W_ppm Cu_ppm Mn_ppm Mo_ppm Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-712 19850 10 20900 1750 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-713 grab 14850 20 17850 1000 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-707 grab 8360 20 21200 230 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-710 8270 20 17250 260 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-708 grab 6730 10 21900 140 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-709 6400 60 18500 240 Rock AR31833 2011 KU10-AR-7 6030 2633 4372 22 Rock AR31833 2011 KU10-AR-8 5510 173 9792 17 Rock AR32573 2011 KU11AR-711 5240 10 17950 570 Table 4 - Surface samples by A. Kikawka P.Geo. from Fundamental Resources 2010-2011 In the Kuhn and Dead Goat Showings Magno Project Key Grades Identified: Historic drilling by Shell Canada included 17 diamond drill holes totaling 1,766 metres, confirming the presence of high-grade scheelite (CaWO4) and molybdenite (MoS2). Recent exploration has confirmed significant tungsten and molybdenum mineralization in metasomatic skarn lenses Hosts a historic resource of 409,300 tonnes at 0.48% WO3 (tungsten trioxide) and 0.134% MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide) in the Kuhn North zone This work was completed prior to the implementation of NI 43-101 standards, and the results have not been confirmed by work conducted under the supervision of a QP. The 2025 summer work program will aim to verify this potential. Gallium (Ga): Untapped Potential in High-Tech Metals Gallium is a strategic metal used in fiber optics, 5G networks, and advanced semiconductors. While historical exploration did not target these elements specifically, Magno's CRD deposits may host economically significant concentrations of this critical metal. GoldHaven plans to evaluate this potential further as part of its upcoming exploration programs. These metals are key to modern electronics and defense applications, positioning Magno as an emerging target for high-tech metal exploration. "The confirmation of high-grade tin, zinc, and tungsten, and the potential for anomalous indium and gallium at the Magno Project represents a major step forward for GoldHaven Resources. These critical metals are integral to the identification of significant mineralization across the property and the goal of supporting the global clean energy transition and high-tech industries, positioning Magno as a strategically important asset. Our recent compilation work has also revealed impressive historical assays of high-grade silver and gold, further strengthening the project's polymetallic foundation. With exploration accelerating in both British Columbia and Brazil in the second half of the year, we are well-positioned to advance Magno's potential and create long-term growth for our shareholders." - Rob Birmingham, CEO of GoldHaven Resources Corp. Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Lindsay Bottomer P.Geo. who is a Qualified Person as defined under NI 43-101 and a consultant of the Company. About GoldHaven Resources Corp. GoldHaven Resources Corp. is a Canadian junior exploration Company focused on acquiring and exploring highly prospective land packages in North and South America. The Company's projects include the flagship Magno Project, a district-scale polymetallic property adjacent to the historic Cassiar mining district in British Columbia. The Three Guardsman Project, which exhibits significant potential for copper and gold-skarn mineralization. The Copecal Gold Project, a drill-ready gold project located in Mato Grosso, Brazil with a 6km strike of anomalous gold in soil samples. Three Critical Mineral projects with extensive tenement packages totalling 123,900 hectares: Bahia South, Bahia North and Iguatu projects located in Brazil. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Rob Birmingham, Chief Executive Officer For further information, please contact: Rob Birmingham, CEO www.GoldHavenresources.com info@GoldHavenresources.com Office Direct: (604) 629-8254 Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE- Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information 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, exploring skarns with detailed geochemical analysis, looking into verifying historic results, and the 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. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "will", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "potential", "scheduled", or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that there will be investor interest in future financings, market fundamentals will result in sustained precious metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future exploration and development of any future projects in a timely manner, the availability of financing on suitable terms for exploration and development of future projects and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development activities, actual results of exploration activities, the estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the inability of the Company to obtain the necessary financing required to conduct its business and affairs, as currently contemplated,, the inability of the Company to enter into definitive agreements in respect of possible Letters of Intent, the timing and amount of estimated future production, the costs of production, capital expenditures, the costs and timing of the development of new deposits, requirements for additional capital, future prices of precious metals, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, lack of investor interest in future financings, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, title disputes, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents, approvals or authorizations, including by the Exchange, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, and risks related to joint venture operations, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's latest interim Management's Discussion and Analysis and filed with certain securities commissions in Canada. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/985dad5f-2e8a-4cea-9fa2-6c437ddfda34 Patriot.TV's Ascent Coincides with a Broader Industry Shift Favoring New Media Over Legacy Networks and Conservative Over Liberal Outlets. ATLANTA, GEORGIA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Patriot.TV, a premier digital-first platform for conservative news, videos, and opinions, today announced the addition of "The David Pollack Show" to its weekly lineup. Hosted by respected attorney, broadcaster, and political strategist David Pollack, the program will debut August 25, 2025, airing Mondays at 4:30 PM ET on Patriot.TV's multi-platform network, including Rumble (RUM) and X (formerly Twitter), and online at https://patriot.tv/ . A sneak-peek "pilot" episode will air August 18. "The David Pollack Show" will deliver in-depth political talk and sharp legal analysis on current events, grounded in conservative principles and God-given rights. Each episode will feature strategic insights on issues like election integrity, free speech, and national policy, often with expert guests including political commentators, strategists, and grassroots leaders. Pollack draws from an extensive background. He earned his Juris Doctorate at Florida International University and spent over a decade practicing law, ran for local office in 2020, and remains deeply involved in politics through roles such as Florida Director for the Turning Point Caucus. An experienced broadcaster (as seen on OANN and Real America's Voice), Pollack brings a wealth of media savvy engaging audiences in meaningful conversations about the nation's foundational principles. His goal is to break down complex political and legal topics, inspire action, and remind viewers of the constitutional values that underpin American society. "Joining Patriot TV is an incredible opportunity to relaunch 'The David Pollack Show' on a platform that champions conservative voices and worldviews," said David Pollack. "I'm passionate about breaking down complex political and legal topics, inspiring action, and reminding viewers of the foundational principles that uphold our nation. This show will be a space for truth, strategy, and unfiltered dialogue that empowers everyday Americans." This addition highlights Patriot.TV's dedication to bolstering its lineup with influential, principle-centered hosts. With an expanding array of shows, breaking news, and opinion content, Patriot.TV has become a go-to source for conservatives seeking alternatives to mainstream narratives. "David Pollack is a dynamic force in conservative media, blending legal acumen with political savvy in a way that perfectly aligns with our mission," said JD Rucker, CEO of Patriot.TV. "We're thrilled to bring his show to our viewers, offering fresh perspectives that inform, motivate, and unite our community." The launch of "The David Pollack Show" comes amid significant momentum for Patriot.TV under its new leadership. JD Rucker, who took the helm as President and COO in June 2025, has overseen a rapid expansion of Patriot.TV's content and reach. Under Rucker's guidance, Patriot.TV recently added other high-profile conservative hosts Wayne Dupree and Drew Berquist to its slate, introducing their nationally recognized programs ("The Wayne Dupree Show" and "This Is My Show with Drew Berquist") to the platform. The network also secured a strategic advertising partnership with Evergreen Media Partners, granting advertisers direct access to Patriot.TV's highly engaged audience. These moves have already yielded tangible results. Patriot.TV's Rumble channel viewership hit a record 1.6 million live viewers in July 2025, the strongest monthly performance to date, and investor confidence in parent company CBMJ has surged alongside the audience growth. Moreover, Patriot.TV's ascent coincides with a broader industry shift favoring new media over legacy networks and conservative over liberal outlets. Media consumption is undergoing a historic shift as audiences abandon traditional cable and broadcast networks, once the dominant over-the-air giants, in favor of streaming and digital-first platforms. Legacy outlets like CNN (WBD), CBS News (PARA), and ABC News (DIS) have suffered steep double-digit ratings declines and shrinking ad revenues, while conservative-leaning networks such as Fox News (FOX), Newsmax (NMAX), and Sinclair Broadcast Group (SBGI) have grown by embracing loyal, values-driven audiences. Increasingly, viewers are bypassing cable bundles entirely, opting for streaming platforms like Patriot.TV, Rumble (RUM), and other independent outlets that offer on-demand, transparent, and politically aligned programming without the filter of corporate or ideological gatekeepers. Together, these trends underscore a seismic viewer shift away from politicized liberal media and traditional networks and toward streaming platforms and independent outlets that align with viewers' values. In this landscape, Patriot.TV's digital-first model and unapologetically conservative, faith-oriented programming position it for continued growth. About Patriot.TV: https://patriot.tv/ Patriot.TV is a digital-first streaming platform delivering patriotic news, commentary, and original programming. Operating as a subsidiary of Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism (OTCID:CBMJ), Patriot.TV is committed to an America-first perspective, championing free speech, traditional values, and truthful, unfiltered content for underserved audiences. With a cutting-edge multi-platform distribution strategy, Patriot.TV reaches viewers across its website, social media, and popular streaming apps, driving engagement through live shows and on-demand content. Revenue is generated through sponsorships, advertising, e-commerce, and membership subscriptions. Since its launch, Patriot.TV has become a burgeoning home for conservative voices, featuring a diverse lineup of shows hosted by military veterans, media insiders, and grassroots influencers devoted to informing and empowering the American public. About Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc.: Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism Inc. is a publicly traded media and digital broadcasting company focused on delivering conservative and faith-based content (OTCID:CBMJ). Its wholly owned subsidiary, Patriot.TV, serves as a premier destination for news, analysis, and original programming that reflects traditional American and Christian values. CBMJ's portfolio also includes online news sites, e-commerce brands, and other media assets catering to the patriotic marketplace. Through these platforms, CBMJ engages a robust audience seeking alternatives to mainstream media, while providing advertisers and business partners with access to a loyal, values-driven consumer base. For more information, visit Media Contact: Mark Schaftlein - CEO, Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc. Phone: (877) 704-6773 SOURCE: Conservative Broadcast Media & Journalism, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/publishing-and-media/patriot.tv-adds-%22the-david-pollack-show%22-expanding-its-weekly-lineup-riding-a-1061077 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) -CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. (TSXV: CTV) (OTCQB: CTVFF) (FSE: C9R) ("CleanTech" or the "Company") announces that it proposes to reprice (the "Option Repricing") an aggregate of 9,090,000 incentive stock options of the Company (the "Options"). The Company intends to adjust the exercise price of 3,050,000 Options from $0.20 to $0.06, 4,030,000 Options from $0.18 to $0.06, 880,000 Options from $0.135 to $0.06, 100,000 Options from $0.16 to $0.06 and 1,030,000 Options from $0.10 to $0.06. The new exercise price in respect of the Options is set at the closing price of the common shares of the Company on August 13, 2025. An aggregate of 8,230,000 Options subject to the Option Repricing are held by insiders of the Company (the "Insider Options"). The completion of the Option Repricing is subject to, among other things, the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV"). Additionally, in accordance with the policies of the TSXV, repricing of the Insider Options is subject to disinterested shareholder approval in accordance with TSXV Policy 4.4 - Security Based Compensation. The purpose of the Option Repricing is primarily to encourage the early exercise of such Options. Related Party Transaction Certain of the directors, officers and other related parties of the Company hold an aggregate of 8,230,000 Options subject to the Option Repricing. Accordingly, the repricing of Options held by related parties of the Company is expected to constitute a "related party transaction" of the Company under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). It is expected that pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, the Company will be exempt from obtaining a formal valuation and minority approval of the Company's shareholders as the fair market value of repriced Options held by related parties of the Company is expected to be below 25% of the Company's market capitalization as determined in accordance with MI 61-101. A material change report including details with respect to the related party transaction may be filed less than 21 days prior to the closing of the Option Repricing as the Company wishes to complete such transactions in a timely manner. About CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. CleanTech is a mining company focused on critical mineral resources in the USA. The Company has an option to acquire 7,180 acres of mineral rights with historic Fluorspar resources across multiple projects in Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar district. CleanTech also owns a 100% interest in the Gibellini Vanadium Mine Project in Nevada. Further information on CleanTech can be found at www.cleantechvanadium.com ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262495 SOURCE: CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. The "Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics Databook 100+ KPIs, Market Size Forecast by End Markets, Precast Products, and Precast Materials Q2 2025 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The prefabricated construction market in Belgium is expected to grow by 4.9% on annual basis to reach EUR 3.04 billion in 2025. The prefabricated construction market in the country has experienced steady growth during 2020-2024, achieving a CAGR of 5.7%. This upward trajectory is expected to continue, with the market forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% during 2025-2029. By the end of 2029, the prefabricated construction sector is projected to expand from its 2024 value of EUR 2.90 billion to approximately EUR 3.76 billion. This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the prefabricated construction sector in Belgium, offering a comprehensive view of market opportunities across end-markets, materials, and products at the country level. With over 100+ KPIs covering growth dynamics in prefabricated construction, this databook provides a wealth of data-centric analysis with charts and tables. Research methodology is based on industry best practices. Its unbiased analysis leverages a proprietary analytics platform to offer a detailed view of emerging business and investment market opportunities. Reasons to buy Comprehensive Market Value Forecasts (2020-2029): Access detailed, data-driven forecasts of the prefabricated construction market's value across a nine-year period, segmented by construction methods, products, materials, and sectors. Granular Product and Component-Level Analysis: Measure the market value of individual prefabricated components including superstructures, roofs, floors, walls, room modules, and columns beams with breakdowns by material and end-use sector. Sector-Wise Breakdown of Prefabrication Demand: Track prefabricated construction adoption across residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors, with further segmentation by construction type (e.g., single-family vs. multi-family, office, retail, hospitality). Cross-Segmentation for Deeper Clarity: Leverage detailed cross-tabulations such as Product Material and Product Sector to understand layered market structures and identify segment-specific demand patterns. Scope This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the prefabricated construction industry, covering market opportunity, and industry dynamics by prefabricated materials, methods, and products across various construction sectors. In addition, it provides market size and forecast of the prefabricated industry covering end markets along with demand analysis in Belgium. With over 100+ KPIs at the country level, this report provides comprehensive understanding of market dynamics at a more granular level. Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Building Construction Sector Residential Single-Family Multi Family Commercial Office Retail Hospitality Other Institutional Industrial Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabrication Methods Panelised construction Modular (Volumetric) construction Hybrid (Semi-volumetric) construction Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Type of Material Aluminium Wood Iron Steel Concrete Glass Other Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Type of Product Building Superstructure Roof Construction Floor Construction Interior Room Modules Exterior Walls Columns Beams Other Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabricated Material X Product Aluminium (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Wood (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Iron Steel (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Concrete (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Glass (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Other (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Belgium Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabrication Product X Construction Sector Residential (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Commercial (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Industrial (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Institutional (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mnp0jh 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814237987/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 Los Angeles, California--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Los Angeles has approved a plan to raise hospitality worker pay to $30 an hour by 2028 - to a level rarely seen in the industry. While the measure represents one of the largest proposed wage increases in the industry, an OysterLink analysis finds it would still leave most hotel workers earning about 18% less than the region's average wage. The plan, known as the "Olympic Wage," would apply to hotels with more than 60 rooms. Pay would climb in stages: $25/hour in July 2026, $27.50/hour in 2027, and $30/hour in 2028, plus required health benefits. The first step - $22.50/hour in July 2025 - is currently paused after a petition gathered more than 140,000 signatures to put the measure on the ballot in June 2026. OysterLink's analysis shows most frontline hospitality jobs in Los Angeles currently pay between $20 and $22/hour. The "Olympic Wage" would push those roles nearly 50% higher than current industry norms. Yet, the average hourly wage across all occupations in the Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metro is $36.64 - the equivalent of $76,200 annually for full-time work. Even at $30/hour, hospitality workers would still be earning about 18% less than the regional average. For a full-time hotel employee, the staged increases would look like this: $22.50/hour today = $46,800/year = $46,800/year $25/hour in 2026 = $52,000/year ( +11% increase ) = $52,000/year ( ) $27.50/hour in 2027 = $57,200/year ( +22% increase ) = $57,200/year ( ) $30/hour in 2028 = $62,400/year (+33% increase) About OysterLink OysterLink is a leading job platform dedicated to the hospitality industry. We connect restaurants, hotels, and hospitality employers with skilled candidates across the U.S. With job listings, including receptionist in Los Angeles or barista in San Francisco, industry insights, and career resources, OysterLink helps professionals build rewarding careers in hospitality. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262409 SOURCE: OysterLink The "Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics Databook 100+ KPIs, Market Size Forecast by End Markets, Precast Products, and Precast Materials Q2 2025 Update" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The prefabricated construction market in Austria is expected to grow by 5.1% on annual basis to reach EUR 4.13 billion in 2025. The prefabricated construction market in the country has experienced steady growth during 2020-2024, achieving a CAGR of 5.9%. This upward trajectory is expected to continue, with the market forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% during 2025-2029. By the end of 2029, the prefabricated construction sector is projected to expand from its 2024 value of EUR 3.93 billion to approximately EUR 5.14 billion. This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the prefabricated construction sector in Austria, offering a comprehensive view of market opportunities across end-markets, materials, and products at the country level. With over 100+ KPIs covering growth dynamics in prefabricated construction, this databook provides a wealth of data-centric analysis with charts and tables. Reasons to buy Comprehensive Market Value Forecasts (2020-2029): Access detailed, data-driven forecasts of the prefabricated construction market's value across a nine-year period, segmented by construction methods, products, materials, and sectors. Granular Product and Component-Level Analysis: Measure the market value of individual prefabricated components including superstructures, roofs, floors, walls, room modules, and columns beams with breakdowns by material and end-use sector. Sector-Wise Breakdown of Prefabrication Demand: Track prefabricated construction adoption across residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors, with further segmentation by construction type (e.g., single-family vs. multi-family, office, retail, hospitality). Cross-Segmentation for Deeper Clarity: Leverage detailed cross-tabulations such as Product Material and Product Sector to understand layered market structures and identify segment-specific demand patterns. Scope Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Building Construction Sector Residential Single-Family Multi Family Commercial Office Retail Hospitality Other Institutional Industrial Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabrication Methods Panelised construction Modular (Volumetric) construction Hybrid (Semi-volumetric) construction Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Type of Material Aluminium Wood Iron Steel Concrete Glass Other Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Type of Product Building Superstructure Roof Construction Floor Construction Interior Room Modules Exterior Walls Columns Beams Other Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabricated Material X Product Aluminium (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Wood (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Iron Steel (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Concrete (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Glass (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Other (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Austria Prefabricated Construction Market Size by Prefabrication Product X Construction Sector Residential (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Commercial (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Industrial (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) Institutional (Building Superstructure, Roof Construction, Floor Construction, Interior Room Modules, Exterior Walls, Columns Beams, Other) For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7afkw0 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814193441/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 Innovation is the key to our success NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Read the 2025 Wesco Sustainability Report here By John Engel, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Office, Wesco International. I am pleased to present Wesco's 2025 Sustainability Report, which demonstrates our commitment to furthering sustainability, innovation and connection in a rapidly changing world. This report highlights how we continue to build a brighter future for our customers, supplier partners and the communities we serve. In 2024, we continued to focus on execution while furthering our vision to become the best tech-enabled supply chain solutions company in the world. Our digital transformation is well underway. We're more than halfway complete on our technology and capabilities build which, once deployed, will help us to do our jobs better, deliver new products and services for our customers and create added value for our supplier partners. Our progress was driven by strong employee engagement, evidenced by our Wesco Listens survey results which showed improvements in trust and safety, surpassing industry and global benchmarks. These metrics reflect our commitment to operational excellence and our dedication to creating a trusted and safe workplace for all. Wesco's global capabilities, leading scale and expanded portfolio of services and solutions uniquely position us to address the world's critical infrastructure needs, including enhanced power generation, electrical grid modernization, automation, connectivity, security, and supply chain resiliency. I am incredibly proud of our talented Wesco team, whose hard work and dedication drive our success. This year, we saw momentum in four key areas: Environmental Stewardship: We continued to pursue our sustainability goals with progress towards achieving our 2030 carbon reduction target. Our focus on renewable energy exhibits our dedication to reducing our environmental impacts. Empowering Our People and Communities: We believe that investing in our employees is crucial for our continued success and growth. In 2024, our employees collectively spent over 172,000 hours in training and development. This commitment to training not only enhances the skills and capabilities of our workforce but also fosters a culture of innovation and inclusiveness. We launched the Wesco Cares Scholarship Program to support the next generation of tradespeople and fortify our commitment to the electrical industry. The $200,000 in scholarships has been awarded to qualified and deserving students pursuing careers in specialized fields within the U.S. electrical industry. Our Wesco team worked especially hard to help our communities in times of need and I am grateful for their dedication to our customers, supplier partners and one another. In addition to responding to storms and other natural disasters, together we made a positive impact through our Wesco Cares program. Wesco team members volunteered more than 3,000 hours of their time in 2024. We expanded our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, contributing to projects such as Home Equals and construction of sustainable homes in Chiapas, Mexico, along with support of the 2024 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project in St. Paul, Minnesota. We joined The Red Cross's Annual Disaster Giving Program to help them mobilize and respond to emergencies big and small at a moment's notice. Ethics and Governance: Integrity remains at the core of Wesco's operations. Our robust global compliance program continues to promote the highest ethical standards. We remain steadfast in our commitment to transparency and accountability. Innovation for a Greener Tomorrow: We offer a wide range of sustainable products and services that help our customers reach their own sustainability goals. From energy-efficiency and energy-management solutions to renewable energy, we are dedicated to environmental responsibility. Wesco has developed programs, services and solutions that are designed to be scalable and adaptable, enabling us to meet the evolving needs of the industries we serve. This includes supporting residential, commercial and utility-scale solar projects through supply chain solutions, a broad product portfolio, and expertise that adapts to consumer demands. Innovation remains a cornerstone of our success. We continue to expand our portfolio of sustainable solutions, providing customers with tools to achieve their own environmental goals. Sustainability is a journey. As we look to 2025 and beyond, I am confident that the dedication of our teams, partners and stakeholders will continue to drive progress. From advancing renewable energy solutions to supporting our employees and communities, we remain steadfast in our vision for a better future for all. Thank you for being part of this journey. John Engel Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer To learn more, download the 2025 Wesco Sustainability Report here. About This Report Unless otherwise stated, this report covers activities, data and initiatives from our fiscal year 2024. ESG Disclosure and Framework Alignment The topics covered in this report include those that we have determined to be material for our business and stakeholders as noted on page 10. Wesco aligns with several ESG frameworks and disclosures in support of our commitment to transparency and our fulfillment of stakeholder needs and expectations. We leverage the following frameworks and standards to provide robust ESG information disclosure: Global Reporting Initiative (GRI): GRI offers a list of global standards and guidelines around sustainability reporting. Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB): SASB provides a comprehensive set of industry-specific disclosure topics and guidelines. International Financial Reporting Standards (Climate-related disclosures, IFRS S2) which incorporates the now decommissioned Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD): IFRS provides disclosure recommendations on thematic ESG topics such as governance, strategy, risk management, metrics and targets to provide stakeholders with fuller information surrounding climate risks. CDP: Formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP is an international organization that helps companies and cities measure and disclose important environmental impact information through an annual questionnaire and rating system. United Nations Global Compact (UNGC): UNGC is an initiative that aims to help businesses align their strategies and work toward the U.N.'s Sustainable Development Goals. United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs): U.N. SDGs provide a shared set of 17 goals toward peace and prosperity for people and planet goals and create a call to action by all countries in a global partnership We also regularly engage with our investors, employees, customers, regulators, ratings agencies and others on ESG and business issues. Additional information about Wesco can be found in our public financial filings- including our annual report and proxy filings-as well as on the Security and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov or on the Investors page of our website at Wesco.com. Wesco plans to continue to report annually as we monitor, measure and deepen our ESG initiatives and disclosures. Wesco endorses the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are a call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. We have prioritized the following five goals: Good Health and Well Being, Affordable and Clean Energy, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Responsible Consumption and Production. More information about our SDG aligned initiatives is included throughout this report. Assurance We did not seek third-party assurance for this report; however, we will consider doing so for future reporting. The information and data contained in this report was vetted by internal subject matter experts on the various ESG topics included in this report. Contact Us We welcome feedback on our ESG initiatives and reporting. We invite you to contact us directly via email at Sustainability@Wescodist.com. John Engel, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Wesco International. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Wesco International on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Wesco International Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/wesco-international Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Wesco International View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/industrial-and-manufacturing/wesco-2025-sustainability-report-a-letter-from-wesco-chairman-john-eng-1061086 PANAMA CITY, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, is doubling down on asset quality over hype. The exchange's latest listings have posted standout performances, with $TREE (Treehouse) surging sixfold on its July 29 debut, drawing strong community buzz. On August 7, Jasper, Head of Assets at HTX, joined the third "Real Talk with HTX Executives" livestream to field questions from its community, X (formerly Twitter) users, and HTX DAO committee members. The session provided an in-depth look at the exchange's asset-screening framework and the key indicators used to identify long-term bullish assets. Rigorous Screening to Capture Long-Term Winners To identify promising projects early, HTX has built a multi-layered evaluation system. Jasper explained that for projects already listed on other exchanges, HTX tracks their ongoing development before considering a listing. For pre-token projects, the review process incorporates on-chain metrics such as holdings allocation, on-chain activity, smart contract audits for vulnerabilities or backdoors, and the reasonableness of valuation, ensuring both potential and security. "HTX tracks potential issuers for up to a year in advance," Jasper said. "Each goes through two to three deep-dive evaluations covering team background, investors, sector fundamentals, AML/KYC compliance, contract security, operational progress, traffic metrics, product overview, community traction, social sentiment, tokenomics, assets distribution, and the authenticity of on-chain data. We also rely on platforms like RootData, Glassnode, and CertiK to verify data integrity and contract safety." To be truly promising, Jasper stated, an asset must address a fundamental demand of its sector. Protocols such as AAVE , UNI , LINK , and TRX , deeply embedded in DeFi and infrastructure, can truly serve industrial needs, generate stable cash flow, and have long-term viability. By contrast, projects built on inflated concepts, fabricated data, or manufactured hype are quickly flagged and eliminated. This disciplined approach ensures the exchange captures over 90% of its target opportunities. HTX is willing to pass on even the hottest trends, such as PUMP tokens, if valuation and market fundamentals don't align. "This year alone, we've successfully sidestepped at least three high-profile projects that subsequently failed, underscoring the reliability of our framework," Jasper noted. New Initiatives to Boost Transparency & Community Engagement To strengthen community engagement and improve investment transparency, HTX is experimenting with asset watchlists and trading pilot zones. Jasper explained that the HTX DAO's crypto recommendations and voting essentially act as a watch list, enabling community members to nominate and evaluate potential listings. This serves as a valuable complement to the official vetting process. Additionally, HTX launched an Innovation Zone in the second quarter of this year, specifically designed for early-stage projects or meme coins with higher uncertainty and volatility. The main crypto zone remains dedicated to more mature and high-quality assets. The structure gives users a clearer way to balance risk appetite with opportunity. Jasper stressed that no exchange, not even market leaders like Binance or Upbit, can guarantee every listing will outperform. "The market is a zero-sum arena. Exchanges provide liquidity and charge reasonable fees for facilitation, but don't dictate price action. Crypto performance depends on a complex mix of factors, including project ability, market-making strategies, tokenomics, sentiment, community traction, macro trends, and valuation. Investors must do their own homework, stay rational, and take responsibility for their own trades." About HTX Founded in 2013, HTX (formerly Huobi) has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses. As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of "Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance," HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide. To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square , and follow HTX on X , Telegram , and Discord . Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750690/Jasper_en.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2391903/5460560/image_ID__Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/htx-executive-jasper-outlines-playbook-for-spotting-high-quality-crypto-assets-302530255.html The "Denmark Pharmaceutical Market Drug Development Forecast 2025-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Denmark Pharmaceutical Market is expected to reach US$ 5.20 billion by 2033 from US$ 3.81 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 3.52% from 2025 to 2033. Heavy R&D spending, government assistance, well-developed healthcare system, aging population, growth in the incidence of chronic diseases, advances in biotechnology, world demand for exports, and the location of world-class pharmaceutical giants such as Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck are all determinants of Denmark's expanding pharmaceutical market. Investigation, research, production, and promotion of drugs and therapies utilized to cure, prevent, or control disease fall within the pharmaceutical sector. Through the provision of innovative medical treatments and increased life expectancy and quality of life, it plays an important role in world medicine. Scientific breakthroughs, government approvals, and the ongoing demand for effective treatments drive this industry. Both small biotech firms and international corporations are prominent players. Prescription drugs, vaccines, and over-the-counter drugs are all pharmaceuticals. The sector often collaborates with research and clinical institutions to accelerate development and is highly regulated to ensure safety and efficacy of drugs. High R&D expenditures, a collaborative academic and health environment, and supportive government regulations are the primary impetus for Denmark's pharmaceutical industry. Major contributions are made by leading global companies such as Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck through specialty medicine creation and global exports. Demand within the domestic market is also boosted by an aging population and the spread of chronic diseases such as diabetes. Innovation through personalized therapy and real-world evidence creation are enabled by advanced health data infrastructure in Denmark. Its global competitiveness is enhanced by an open regulatory system and access to EU markets. These combine to offer a robust, future-proof pharmaceutical sector with scope to expand. Growth Drivers for the Denmark Pharmaceutical Market Advanced Health Data Infrastructure One of the key drivers for Denmark's pharmaceutical market's growth is its advanced heath data infrastructure. With biobanks, illness registries, and population-level electronic health records, the country boasts one of the most advanced and unified systems of healthcare data in the world. Since every Danish citizen is assigned a personal identification number, medical records can be exactly correlated between clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies. The approach opens up real-world data to academics and pharma companies to facilitate post-marketing surveillance, drug development, and clinical trials. Such access reduces the cost and time-to-market of research as well as speeds up pharmacovigilance and personalized treatment innovation. It also enhances the quality and efficiency of clinical trials by enabling long-term follow-up and targeted patient recruitment. In addition, Denmark is a safe destination for international collaboration due to the stringent data protection legislation that ensures patient confidentiality. This technological advantage enhances Denmark's competitiveness in the life sciences world and makes it a leading site for pharmaceutical R&D. Supportive Government Policies Denmark's pharma industry is growing largely due to the favorable government policies of the country. Denmark has established a comprehensive Life Sciences Growth Plan incorporating 36 initiatives across six key areas such as clinical trials, R&D, and regulatory environments. This strategic plan aims to further consolidate Denmark's reputation as a leading life sciences nation by fostering innovation and streamlining procedures. The establishment of a "one-stop-shop" for drug companies that simplifies and quickens the regulatory approval process is an essential component of this program. By reducing administrative barriers, this program makes it easier for businesses to set up and expand production sites in Denmark. In addition, Denmark's climate agreement with the pharmaceutical industry illustrates its commitment to environmental responsibility. Consistent with international environmental aims, our partnership works to support green innovation and reduce CO2 emissions. Overall, taken as a package, all these beneficial government programs offer a good environment for pharmaceutical companies to expand, innovate, and become globally competitive for Denmark's pharmaceutical sector. Strong R&D Investment High investment in research and development (R&D) is one of the factors propelling the growth of the pharmaceutical market in Denmark. With a significant proportion being allocated to life sciences and pharmaceuticals, the country has some of the highest R&D expenditures per GDP of any nation globally. Both the public funding of the Danish government and substantial contributions from the private sector particularly from major players such as Novo Nordisk and Lundbeck funding this acquisition. Universities, hospitals, and enterprise are in close collaboration to facilitate Denmark's R&D environment that encourages innovation in biotechnology, personalized medicine, and drug development. Tax reductions, subsidies, and strategic initiatives such as the Life Sciences Growth Plan are some of the government measures that actively encourage R&D. Contemporary research infrastructure and highly skilled staff are also available, which adds to Denmark's competitive edge. This robust R&D climate accelerates the development of novel treatments, attracts foreign partnerships, and makes Denmark a world leader in clinical excellence and pharmaceutical innovation. Challenges in the Denmark Pharmaceutical Market Regulatory Complexity and EU Compliance EU compliance and regulatory complexity provide major obstacles for Denmark's pharmaceutical industry. Businesses have to deal with two sets of regulations: strict European Union guidelines and Danish state laws. This results in a complicated and frequently drawn-out approval process for new medications and clinical studies, which can raise expenses and postpone market entry. Startups and small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) frequently find it difficult to satisfy these standards due to the resource requirements and administrative load. Furthermore, ongoing adaptation is necessary due to the EU's periodic revisions and harmonization initiatives. For Danish pharmaceutical businesses, sustaining innovation speed while balancing compliance is still a major concern. Sustainability and Green Transition For Denmark's pharmaceutical industry, sustainability and the green transition pose increasing obstacles. There is growing pressure on the business to lessen its environmental impact, which includes controlling water use in manufacturing processes, cutting carbon emissions, and limiting waste. Significant investments in cleaner technologies and process innovations are necessary to meet Denmark's aggressive climate targets and EU environmental requirements. Pharmaceutical businesses also need to strike a balance between sustainability measures and preserving cost-effectiveness and production efficiency. Changes in sourcing procedures and supply networks are also necessary for this shift. The Danish pharmaceutical industry must overcome the difficult task of successfully incorporating green practices while maintaining its competitiveness in order to keep up with worldwide sustainability trends. Key Players Analysis: Company Overview, Key Persons, Recent Development Strategies, SWOT Analysis, Sales Analysis Novo Nordisk A/S H. Lundbeck A/S Leo Pharma A/S Orifarm Group A/S ALK-Abell A/S Xellia ApS Takeda Pharma A/S Sandoz A/S Ferring Pharmaceuticals A/S FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $3.81 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $5.2 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 3.5% Regions Covered Denmark 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. Denmark Pharmaceutical Market 5.1 Historical Market Trends 5.2 Market Forecast 6. Market Share Analysis 6.1 By Therapeutic Class 6.2 By Drug Type 6.3 By Prescription Type 6.4 By Distribution Channel 7. Therapeutic Class 7.1 Cancer 7.1.1 Market Analysis 7.1.2 Market Size Forecast 7.2 Infectious Diseases 7.3 Cardiovascular Diseases 7.4 Diabetes 7.5 Respiratory Diseases 7.6 Central Nervous System Disorders 7.7 Autoimmune Diseases 7.8 Others 8. Drug Type 8.1 Branded 8.1.1 Market Analysis 8.1.2 Market Size Forecast 8.2 Generic 9. Prescription Type 9.1 OTC Drugs 9.1.1 Market Analysis 9.1.2 Market Size Forecast 9.2 Prescription Drugs 10. Distribution Channel 10.1 Hospital Pharmacy 10.1.1 Market Analysis 10.1.2 Market Size Forecast 10.2 Retail Pharmacy 10.3 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 Novo Nordisk A/S 14.2 H. Lundbeck A/S 14.3 Leo Pharma A/S 14.4 Orifarm Group A/S 14.5 ALK-Abell A/S 14.6 Xellia ApS 14.7 Takeda Pharma A/S 14.8 Sandoz A/S 14.9 Ferring Pharmaceuticals A/S 14.10 FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies 15. Key Players Analysis For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6jvdn3 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814534862/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 The "Europe Online Education Market E-learning Trends Forecast 2025-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Europe Online Education Market is expected to reach US$ 229.94 billion by 2033 from US$ 94.07 billion in 2024, with a CAGR of 10.44% from 2025 to 2033. The need for ongoing skill development in the workforce, the growth of online learning and remote working, and supporting government efforts are all contributing to the expansion of the European e-learning market share. More individuals in Europe have access to digital learning resources as mobile and internet technology develops. In particular, students may access e-learning platforms from almost anywhere because of the widespread availability of cellphones and fast internet. Digital tools like web-based course materials, video calls, and collaborative platforms make e-learning more accessible and encourage its adoption by a variety of demographics. Professionals and students may also study at their own pace and at times that work for them thanks to e-learning. Working professionals, those with family obligations, and people living in remote areas who might not have easy access to traditional educational institutions will find this flexibility very appealing. Whether for formal schooling or continuing professional development, people are increasingly choosing e-learning systems that provide customized and asynchronous learning because of different schedules and learning styles. In addition, a lot of the region's governmental bodies are realizing how important digital skills are to future economic success. They are starting a lot of initiatives to promote e-learning and the development of e-skills in the general public. Additionally, e-learning is becoming better because of technology developments, which are making it more effective and engaging. AI and other technologies are used in adaptive learning, which allows platforms to adjust the learning route and customize the content based on each learner's performance. The use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create captivating, interactive experiences, such as virtual labs or simulations, is growing. These tools improve learner engagement and help students develop transferable abilities that are difficult to acquire through traditional means. Key Factors Driving the Europe Online Education Market Growth Growing Initiatives for Collaborative Higher Education The rise of collaborative initiatives in higher education aimed at fostering digital transformation is fueling the expansion of the e-learning sector in Europe. More accessible, flexible, and innovative e-learning choices are being fostered via partnerships among universities, research institutions, and corporate companies. These collaborations usually involve the development of online and open courses, which offer top-notch instruction to a larger, more diverse student body across Europe. These initiatives are particularly important for removing institutional and geographic barriers so that students from different places may access the same cutting-edge course materials. These collaborations create a robust and scalable e-learning ecosystem by combining the capabilities of different institutions and making use of shared digital platforms. These efforts are further supported by government financing and assistance, which encourages the widespread use of e-learning at European institutions and enhances the region's educational system. As Europe's first move toward a pan-European open university that supported e-learning, the OpenEU coalition was established in 2024 under the leadership of Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. In order to promote digital transformation in higher education, it brought together 13 organizations and 14 universities. The European Commission's most recent European Universities initiative provided funding to 14 partnerships, including OpenEU. Policies and Initiatives of the Government The market for online education is largely driven by European governments through financing and strategic efforts. The goals of policies like the European Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027 are to guarantee that all member states have fair access to digital learning resources, encourage innovation in instruction, and improve digital skills. EU-wide programs like Erasmus+, which provide funding for cross-border education and training initiatives like virtual mobility and digital upskilling, complement these efforts. Additionally, governments are supporting teacher training in digital pedagogy and investing in the construction of digital infrastructure in schools. These programs play a major role in the ongoing development and modernization of the online education scene in Europe by tackling digital divides and equipping teachers and students for a tech-driven future. Growing Use of Online Learning Environments The strong educational system and the growing use of digital learning tools are supporting the expansion of the e-learning sector in Europe. In order to offer more flexible learning options, renowned European institutions are implementing blended learning strategies, which combine traditional in-person education with online platforms. A significant shift to digital learning is shown by the fact that 33% of EU internet users took part in online courses or educational materials in 2024, according to Eurostat. This widespread use demonstrates a growing preference for flexible and easy learning strategies, particularly among employees and learners looking to further their careers. Additionally, the need for individualized learning experiences is growing, with a focus on courses and material that are specifically designed to meet the needs of each student. Additionally, the availability of tailored learning materials such as AI-generated content, adaptive learning systems, and game-like elements enhances effectiveness and engagement. Europe is a leader in the e-learning industry thanks to the region's robust digital infrastructure and government initiatives to advance digital literacy, which supports further growth in the corporate and academic education sectors. Challenges in the Europe Online Education Market Digital pedagogy and teacher preparation Due to a lack of preparation in digital pedagogy, many instructors in Europe struggle to adjust to online instruction. Managing virtual classrooms, efficiently using educational software, and interacting with students in an online setting are just a few of the new abilities needed to make the switch from traditional classroom approaches to digital instruction. Teachers' capacity to provide high-quality online education may be hampered by a lack of institutional support and professional development opportunities. This transition is further complicated by reluctance to change and digital exhaustion. For online education to be effective and sustainable throughout the area, teacher training programs emphasizing pedagogical innovation and technological integration must be strengthened. Assurance of Quality and Accreditation One of the biggest challenges is ensuring the legitimacy and quality of online education. It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain uniform academic standards and confirm the legitimacy of credentials due to the quick growth of eLearning platforms. The value of many online courses in the labor market may be diminished since they are not officially accredited or in line with accepted educational frameworks. Furthermore, the reliability of evaluations may be impacted by the lack of standardized evaluation techniques. To gain the trust of students, businesses, and educators, European institutions must set strict quality assurance procedures and legal requirements. The efficacy and long-term reputation of online education programs might be jeopardized in the absence of such procedures. Europe Online Education Market Overview by Regions The market for online education in Europe is expanding quickly as a result of growing demand for adaptable, easily available learning solutions, government programs encouraging educational innovation, and growing acceptance of digital learning technologies. Market expansion is also fueled by technological advancements and a move toward lifelong learning. Company Analysis: Overview, Key Persons, Recent Developments, Revenue Analysis Coursera Inc. Instructure Holding Inc. Adobe Inc. Alphabet Inc. Udemy Pearsons Inc. Stride Inc. NetEase Inc. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $94.07 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $229.94 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 10.4% Regions Covered Europe 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. Europe Online Education Market 5.1 Historical Market Trends 5.2 Market Forecast 6. Market Share Analysis 7. By Type 7.1.1 By Academic 7.1.2 By Corporate 7.2 By Provider 7.3 By Technology 7.4 By Countries 8. Type 8.1 Academic 8.1.1 Higher Education 8.1.2 Vocational Training 8.1.3 K-12 Education 8.1.4 Others 8.2 Corporate 8.2.1 Large Enterprises 8.2.2 SMBs 8.3 Government 9. Provider 9.1 Content 9.2 Services 10. Technology 10.1 Online e-learning 10.2 Learning Management System (LMS) 10.3 Mobile e-learning 10.4 Rapid e-learning 10.5 Virtual classroom 10.6 Others 11. Countries 11.1 France 11.2 Germany 11.3 Italy 11.4 Spain 11.5 United Kingdom 11.6 Belgium 11.7 Netherlands 11.8 Russia 11.9 Poland 11.10 Greece 11.11 Norway 11.12 Romania 11.13 Portugal 11.14 Rest of Europe 12. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 12.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers 12.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 12.3 Degree of Rivalry 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 Threat 14. Key Players Analysis For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/tvuqrj 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814749450/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 BOSTON, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TraceLink , the largest end-to-end digital network platform for intelligent orchestration of the life sciences and healthcare supply chain, today announced significant new platform enhancements to drive supply chain transformation with its Orchestration Platform for Universal Solutions (OPUS). The new capabilities are designed to empower supply chain, finance, commercial, and IT leaders to master today's supply chain complexities and prepare for an agentic-first future. The platform and product releases-spanning OPUS, Multienterprise Information Network Tower (MINT), Process Orchestration for Empowered Teams (POET), and Serialized Product Intelligence (SPI)-each play a distinct role in enabling transformation: OPUS : Enables the design, deployment, and scaling of orchestration solutions across the supply chain, driving process consistency and automation. : Enables the design, deployment, and scaling of orchestration solutions across the supply chain, driving process consistency and automation. MINT : Links partners and automates multienterprise supply chain transactions, eliminating silos and improving real-time collaboration. : Links partners and automates multienterprise supply chain transactions, eliminating silos and improving real-time collaboration. POET : Empowers cross-functional teams to execute shared workflows with greater speed, visibility, and accountability. : Empowers cross-functional teams to execute shared workflows with greater speed, visibility, and accountability. SPI: Ensures data accuracy and real-time visibility into serialized product events, reducing compliance risk and improving inventory decisions. Individually, they drive change. Together, they empower companies to digitalize and orchestrate critical business processes end-to-end, slashing operational costs, ensuring seamless regulatory compliance, and unlocking new commercial opportunities through new market and customer network expansion. "Our mission is to build the digital foundation for the intelligent and agentic supply chains of the future," said Shabbir Dahod, President and CEO of TraceLink. "These OPUS platform enhancements, developed in close collaboration with hundreds of our customers, are a massive step forward. We are delivering the orchestration tools our customers need to win today, while simultaneously laying the groundwork for agentic AI to intelligently sense, respond, and adapt to supply chain dynamics in real time. This is how true productivity, agility, and next-level performance will be achieved." Deepening the Foundation for Supply Chain Transformation In today's volatile business environment, siloed data and disjointed partners fuel inefficiencies, stockouts, delayed revenue, and compliance risks. TraceLink addresses these challenges at the root with its unique B2N Integrate-Once model, enabling companies of any size or digital maturity to collaborate on a shared digital network. Building on this foundation, the latest platform enhancements deliver powerful new capabilities-each offering targeted innovations, yet designed to work in concert across the OPUS platform to maximize value. Orchestration Platform for Universal Solutions (OPUS) Launch of OPUS Link Lab , a free innovation lab and testing environment for no-code solutions built on OPUS that dramatically accelerates time-to-value for solution partners solving unique business process challenges. Simulate multienterprise workflows, test data flows across partner networks, validate orchestration logic in a secure design environment, and add new orchestration solutions to the OPUS Marketplace catalog for use by customers and their trading partners. , a free innovation lab and testing environment for no-code solutions built on OPUS that dramatically accelerates time-to-value for solution partners solving unique business process challenges. Simulate multienterprise workflows, test data flows across partner networks, validate orchestration logic in a secure design environment, and add new orchestration solutions to the OPUS Marketplace catalog for use by customers and their trading partners. Enhanced OPUS Reports and Dashboards with deeper drill-down capabilities and support for multiple child object handling in report development. Multienterprise Information Network Tower (MINT) Expanded End-to-End Process Coverage : MINT now orchestrates a wider range of critical transaction types across the value chain: Commerce: New capabilities for chargeback reconciliation to reduce revenue leakage and enhanced collaboration on demand forecasts to improve product availability. External Manufacturing: Deeper integration with contract partners through new transactions for planned orders, process orders, and batch closure, improving production visibility and control. Logistics and Transportation: New transactions for logistics planning and transportation status, including article master data, carrier shipment status, routing, and carrier information to streamline and track shipments with partners. : MINT now orchestrates a wider range of critical transaction types across the value chain: Accelerated Insights : Addition of over 20 predefined reports and dashboards to provide immediate, actionable intelligence across order-to-cash, procure-to-pay, and inventory management processes. : Addition of over 20 predefined reports and dashboards to provide immediate, actionable intelligence across order-to-cash, procure-to-pay, and inventory management processes. Improved Operational Flexibility: New capabilities to download exchanged files via UI and exchange transactions as email attachments improve agility for customers and trading partners participating in orchestration networks. Process Orchestration for Empowered Teams (POET) Launch of POET for DSCSA Compliance Exceptions: The industry's only solution for structured, automated, and collaborative resolution of DSCSA exceptions among teams distributed across different enterprises. The solution digitalizes the HDA Exceptions Guideline process, including the ability to auto-create exceptions identified by TraceLink's Serialized Operations Manager (SOM) solution and initiate email transactions between trading partners following the Guideline standards, enabling trading partners to resolve issues like verification failures or missing EPCIS data up to 80% faster, protecting revenue and ensuring compliance. Serialized Product Intelligence (SPI) Enhanced Inventory Reconciliation : Additional data fields added to the reconcile lots and serial number events reports help ensure accuracy between physical inventory and serialized data. : Additional data fields added to the reconcile lots and serial number events reports help ensure accuracy between physical inventory and serialized data. Increased Real-Time Inventory Visibility: Reports now include available quantity data to help avoid using decommissioned or non-saleable products. While each solution delivers powerful new capabilities on its own, their true strength lies in how they work together-each one amplifying the value of the others. Real-World Results: How Customers Are Transforming with TraceLink TraceLink customers are achieving transformative results by harnessing the power of end-to-end supply chain solutions that work seamlessly together: A leading U.S.-based healthcare system with over $500 million in annual pharmacy spend is targeting millions in savings through full procure-to-pay digitalization. with over $500 million in annual pharmacy spend is targeting millions in savings through full procure-to-pay digitalization. A leading European pharmaceutical company is working to reduce stockout-related losses by over 50%, improving product availability and patient service levels. is working to reduce stockout-related losses by over 50%, improving product availability and patient service levels. A leading European CMO/CPO established a single integration linking 100% of its MAH customers, working to improve OTIF and production visibility. TraceLink will showcase these innovations and specific scenarios of transformation of supply chain performance at upcoming events, including the Life Sciences & Healthcare Leaders Seminar: Maximizing Revenue and Service Using Digital Commerce Networks in New Jersey (September 2025), and at FutureLink Barcelona (October 2025) where TraceLink will unveil early innovations around agentic orchestration. To explore the full scope of TraceLink's platform and product innovations and see how these capabilities are driving real-world transformation, please visit www.tracelink.com . About TraceLink TraceLink Inc. is the largest end-to-end intelligent supply chain platform for life sciences and healthcare, enabling end-to-end orchestration by connecting more than 291,000 healthcare and life sciences entities through its B2N Integrate-Once network. Leading businesses trust TraceLink to deliver complete global connectivity, visibility, and traceability of healthcare products, ensuring that every patient gets the medicines they need when needed, safely and securely. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1004729/TraceLink_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tracelink-accelerates-supply-chain-transformation-with-new-opus-platform-capabilities-for-an-ai-powered-future-302530166.html NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, the global graphene market is witnessing noticeable growth owing to rising demand from electronics and energy storage, and development in the construction sector. The graphene market is expected to reach US$8.58 billion by 2031 from US$1.88 billion in 2024; it is anticipated to register a CAGR of 24% during the forecast period. The graphene market is evolving as a dynamic segment within the broader materials sector. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice, has sparked interest due to its unique combination of exceptional electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. Its versatility makes it applicable across numerous industries, including electronics for flexible displays and transistors, energy for advanced batteries and supercapacitors, and composites for stronger, lighter materials. Check valuable insights in the Graphene Market report. You can easily get a sample PDF of the report - https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00014359 Rising adoption of electric vehicles is expected to propel market growth during the forecast period. The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. Overview of Graphene Market Report Findings 1. Flourishing Electronics and Energy Storage Industry: The growing demand from the electronics and energy storage industries is a major force behind the surge in graphene adoption. In electronics, the trend toward smaller, more powerful, and energy-efficient devices drives research and investment into graphene-based solutions. Graphene's exceptional electrical conductivity, flexibility, and heat dissipation make it a superior material for next-generation transistors, sensors, printed circuit boards, and flexible displays. The appetite for advanced consumer electronics, including smartphones, wearables, and foldable devices, accelerates the shift toward graphene use to achieve faster processing and longer device lifespans. 2. Rising Adoption from Biomedical and Healthcare Applications: Biomedical and healthcare applications rapidly emerge as a pivotal future trend in the graphene market. Graphene's distinctive characteristics-such as high surface area, remarkable electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and excellent biocompatibility-fuel a wave of innovation in medical science. Its adoption in biosensors enables ultra-sensitive and rapid disease diagnostics, propelling the potential for early detection and personalized treatment. Graphene's surface can be functionalized in drug delivery to carry therapeutic agents directly to targeted cells, improving efficacy and minimizing side effects. Tissue engineering benefits from graphene's use as a scaffold material, promoting cell growth and accelerating healing in regenerative medicine. 3. Geographical Insights: In 2024, Asia Pacific led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and North America. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Get Research Sample Copy of the Graphene Market: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00014359 Graphene Market Segmentation The market is segmented by type into monolayer and bilayer, multi-layer graphene (MLG), graphene nano-platelets, graphene oxide, and others. The graphene oxide segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. In terms of application, the market is categorized into composites, functional inks, paints and coatings, energy storage, polymer additives, batteries, sensors, RFID, and others. The composites segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. Based on end-use industry, the market is categorized into electronics and consumer goods, automotive, aerospace and defense, energy and power, building and construction, medical, and others. The electronics and consumer goods segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. The graphene market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America. Competitive Strategy and Development Key Players: A few of the major companies operating in the graphene market are Global Graphene Group; Graphenea; Grafoid Inc; ACS Material LLC; NeoGraf; Vorbeck Materials Corp; HAYDALE GRAPHENE INDUSTRIES PLC; MATEXCEL; Grolltex Inc; Gerdau Graphene; AdNano Technologies Pvt Ltd; Otto Chemie Pvt Ltd; BT CORP; UCSGRAPHENE; and NanoXplore Inc., etc. Global Headlines on Graphene Market Graphene Innovation Manchester announced the launch of the world's first commercial production of graphene. Black Semiconductor, a spin-off and current partner of the Graphene Flagship, secures EUR 254.4 million in funding to launch new semiconductor technology in Europe. Black Swan Graphene secures US patent for breakthrough continuous graphene production process. Get Premium Copy of Graphene Market Size and Growth Report by 2031 at:https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00014359 Conclusion: The graphene market is pivotal, shaped by ongoing advancements, growing industry interest, and an expanding ecosystem of research and development initiatives. Companies are gradually moving beyond experimental phases to evaluate real-world applications and pilot deployments of graphene-based solutions, further broadening the scope of potential opportunities. The collaboration between research institutions, innovative startups, and established manufacturers fosters an environment conducive to developing practical applications, whether in electronics, advanced materials, or energy storage. The report from The Insight Partners, therefore, provides several stakeholders-including information on raw material suppliers, graphene manufacturers, and distributors/suppliers-with valuable insights to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new opportunities. Trending Related Reports: Graphene Battery Market Trends and Top Players 2021-2031 Graphene Composites Market Report by Share/Size Analysis 2031 Graphene Nano Platelets (GNPs) Electronics Market Overview, Growth, Trends, Analysis, Research Report (2025-2031) Graphene Nanopowder Market: Research Report by Size Share Analysis 2031 Graphene Electronics Market Report by Share/Size Analysis 2031 Graphene Nanoplatelets Market Growth Report | 2021 to 2031 About Us: The Insight Partners is a one-stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in semiconductor and electronics, aerospace and defense, automotive and transportation, biotechnology, healthcare IT, manufacturing and construction, medical devices, technology, media and telecommunications, and chemicals and materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please get in touch with us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: ankit.mathur@theinsightpartners.com Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Also Available in :??????< | ?? | Francais | Deutsch | Italiano | ?? | ??? | Espanol Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1586348/5449703/The_Insight_Partners_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/graphene-market-to-register-a-cagr-of-24-by-2031---driven-by-flourishing-electronics-and-energy-storage-industry--the-insight-partners-302530139.html MONTREAL, QC / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Valsoft Corporation Inc. ("Valsoft"), a Montreal-based company specializing in the acquisition and development of vertical market software businesses, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Diffusion Solutions Integrees Inc. ("Progression"), the company behind ProgressionLIVE, a widely adopted platform that helps service-based businesses streamline operations, improve dispatch, and centralize job data. ProgressionLIVE is a mobile-friendly, end-to-end solution designed for industries such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical work, construction, and field service. It allows users to manage everything from customer intake and scheduling to technician dispatch, real-time updates, invoicing, and integration with accounting systems. With more than 900 satisfied customers and over 20,000 users, Progression has become a trusted partner for service-based businesses looking to digitize and grow their operations without complexity. "ProgressionLIVE is a strong solution built on a deep understanding of its users and their workflows. The team at Progression has developed a platform that delivers real operational value, while keeping things simple for the businesses they serve," said Joe Farruggia, Investment Partner at Valsoft. "We are proud to welcome Progression to Valsoft, and we look forward to supporting their continued growth in the field service market." Based in Quebec, Progression has been operating since 2006 and is known for its hands-on approach to customer service and product development. Over the years, the company has focused on building a solution that adapts to the evolving needs of service teams on the ground. ProgressionLIVE offers a full suite of features, including mobile invoicing, electronic signatures, photo capture, work progress tracking, SMS notifications, and PDF work order delivery, all accessible from a central platform. "From day one, our goal has been to build tools that simplify life for service teams. That focus has shaped every feature in ProgressionLIVE and every relationship we've built with our customers," said Louis-Philippe Poulin, co-founder of Progression. "Joining Valsoft allows us to keep doing what we do best, while gaining a strong partner that respects our independence and believes in long-term growth." Progression will continue to operate autonomously, with its leadership and team remaining in place. As part of the Valsoft ecosystem, the company will benefit from shared expertise, operational support, and a long-term view focused on sustainable product development and customer impact. This acquisition represents Valsoft's continued commitment to investing in software businesses that empower customers through purpose-built, vertical solutions. Valsoft was represented internally by Shinjay Choi (Ssin), Senior Legal Counsel and Elisa Marcon, Senior Corporate Paralegal. Progression was represented by Lavery. Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Progression. About Progression Progression is a Quebec-based software company specializing in field service management solutions for small and medium-sized businesses. Its flagship product, ProgressionLIVE, helps service teams digitize and simplify their daily operations through intuitive tools for scheduling, dispatch, mobile invoicing, and real-time tracking. With nearly two decades of industry experience, Progression continues to evolve its platform to meet the real-world needs of field service professionals across a wide range of industries. For more information: https://www.progressionlive.com/en/ About Valsoft Valsoft acquires and develops vertical market software companies with the goal of driving long-term growth and value creation. Valsoft partners with companies to provide operational support, capital, and strategic expertise while allowing them to retain their entrepreneurial spirit. Headquartered in Montreal, Valsoft has a presence in over 20 countries and operates in more than 30 vertical markets. For more information, visit www.valsoftcorp.com. ----- Media contact information Thierry Tardif Communications and Public Relations Valsoft Corporation +1 514-799-6679 t.tardif@valsoftcorp.com SOURCE: Valsoft Corp View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/banking-and-financial-services/valsoft-acquires-progression-a-leading-field-service-management-soft-1061093 RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Saudi Arabia's mining sector has achieved an unprecedented global milestone, jumping from 104th place in 2013 to 23rd in 2024 in the Fraser Institute's Mining Investment Attractiveness Index, according to the Institute's 2024 Annual Survey of Mining Companies. The Kingdom surpassed mining jurisdictions in prominent destinations across Asia and Latin America. The Kingdom also made notable progress in the Policy Perception Index (PPI), rising from 82nd globally in 2013 to 20th in 2024, reflecting growing international confidence in its stable regulatory environment. The Mineral Potential Index (MPI) also saw an unprecedented leap, moving from 58th in 2013 to 24th in 2024, highlighting the scale of the Kingdom's vast and untapped mineral wealth-supported by ongoing geological surveys, new discoveries, and widely attended mining licensing rounds. "This outstanding performance reflects the structural transformation and holistic efforts being driven across the mining and mineral sector under Vision 2030," said His Excellency Eng. Khalid Al-Mudaifer, Vice Minister for Mining Affairs. "Our focus remains on maximizing the economic value of our mineral resources, creating jobs for citizens, and localizing supply chains. Mining is no longer a traditional sector; rather, it has become a key driver of industrial and economic growth, and we are committed to building on this momentum to ensure sustainable success," Al-Mudaifer added. The noted that the Kingdom's success was driven by broad regulatory transformations covering security of tenure, taxation, environmental legislation, infrastructure, and community engagement. These efforts enabled Saudi Arabia to enter the top quartile of the index for the first time. According to the Fraser Institute report, the Kingdom achieved exceptional improvements in key indicators between 2013 and 2024, including: 305.8% improvement in the clarity and effectiveness of mining administration, from 17% in 2013 to 69% in 2024, ranking 11th globally. 82.2% improvement in clarity of land use for mining activities, from 45% in 2013 to 82% in 2024, ranking 7th globally. 102.2% improvement in labor regulations, from 45% in 2013 to 91% in 2024. 81.8% improvement in the quality of geological databases, from 33% in 2013 to 60% in 2024. The report praised the Kingdom's stable regulatory environment and ambitious reforms, which have strengthened international investor confidence and solidified Saudi Arabia's status as a world-class mining investment destination-fully aligned with Vision 2030's goal of diversifying the economy and developing strategic sectors. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750712/King_Abdullah_District.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/saudi-arabia-leaps-from-104th-to-23rd-globally-in-the-mining-investment-attractiveness-index-302530295.html New report will facilitate consumer goods industry screening of Forest, Land, and Agriculture (FLAG) emissions, responsible for 22 percent of all global GHGs in 2019 AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, HONG KONG, and OAKLAND, CA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Cascale and Worldly have released the "Navigating Forest, Land, and Agriculture (FLAG) Emissions" report to offer a standardized method for estimating FLAG emissions for the apparel and footwear industry. The report uses data from Cascale's Higg Index tools, exclusively available on Worldly, as well as guidance for companies to assess the relevance of FLAG emissions to their organizations. FLAG emissions, which include land use change (LUC), land management emissions, and biogenic removals, represented 22 percent of all global emissions in 2019. However, because of ongoing data and methodological challenges, these emissions have often been partially excluded from corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories. With regulatory momentum shifting, the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) now requires companies with more than 20 percent of emissions from FLAG sources to set separate reduction targets. In parallel, finalized GHG Protocol guidance on FLAG emissions is expected by Q4 2025. While tools like Cascale's Higg Materials Sustainability Index (Higg MSI) already include many FLAG-related impacts, they currently do not include land use change data - an essential input for full FLAG reporting standards. In addition, land management emissions are often aggregated together with non-FLAG GHG emissions in the Higg MSI, while they must be separated to calculate a FLAG baseline. Recognizing this gap and need for industry guidance, Cascale and Worldly conducted exploratory research to identify and evaluate key calculation methodologies and considerations specific to the sector. The outcome is a foundational framework designed to help companies take initial steps in FLAG emission estimations using consistent, sector-relevant methods. "Accurately measuring and reporting FLAG emissions remains a significant challenge for many organizations," said Joel Mertens, Director of Higg Product Tools at Cascale. "Data quality, availability, and alignment with evolving standards continue to be major hurdles. This framework offers a critical starting point for companies, enabling more consistent and harmonized reporting across the industry." "This report provides a robust methodology that enables Higg MSI users to calculate a credible FLAG emissions baseline," said Paula Bernstein, Associate Director of Sustainability Science at Worldly. "Establishing this baseline is key to meeting emerging climate disclosure requirements. As FLAG data and standards evolve, we'll continue collaborating with Cascale and the industry to refine methodologies and shape best practices that drive supply-chain decarbonization." The FLAG Emissions report can be accessed through Cascale's website. Further discussion and member input on the guidance will take place during Cascale's Annual Meeting and Worldly's Customer Forum, both planned for September 2025. ABOUT CASCALE Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people. LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube ABOUT WORLDLY Worldly is the leading sustainability data and analytics platform for the consumer goods industry, empowering brands, retailers, and suppliers to turn primary data into strategic business action. Trusted by a network of over 40,000 global customers across apparel, footwear, home furnishings, outdoor sporting goods, and more, Worldly provides deep visibility into environmental and social impact-from carbon and water to chemicals and labor-at the product, facility, and value chain level. Built on industry-leading standards including Cascale's Higg Index tools, exclusively available on Worldly, and connected with partners like ZDHC and Bluesign, Worldly transforms raw data into actionable intelligence that helps companies reduce risk, boost operational efficiency, meet evolving compliance and regulatory requirements, and accelerate measurable impact. With the largest global network of engaged manufacturers and the most comprehensive library of materials and product impact data, Worldly enables businesses to lead with transparency, resilience, and accountability. www.worldly.io View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cascale on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cascale Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cascale Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Cascale View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/cascale-and-worldly-lay-groundwork-for-assessing-flag-emissions-1061100 Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Steve Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer, LongPoint Asset Management Inc. ("LongPoint") and his team, joined Graham MacKenzie, Managing Director, Exchange Traded Products, Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), to open the market and celebrate the launch of Canada's first Double Inverse Levered Single Stock ETFs: SavvyShort (-2X) NVDA ETF (TSX: NVDD) SavvyShort (-2X) TSLA ETF (TSX: TSLD) Cannot view this video? Visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJJtO09B3Kc These ETFs seek daily investment results that endeavour to correspond, before fees and expenses, to two times the inverse (-2X) the daily return (on a percentage basis) of the respective common stock. The ETFs do not hedge their exposure to the U.S. dollar. The ETFs only trade in Canadian Dollars. These new ETFs offer active Canadian investors a Canadian-domiciled, TSX-listed solution-trading in Canadian dollars-that enables them to tactically position their portfolios around company-specific news, technical signals, market events, or fundamental price outlooks. With this launch, LongPoint continues to establish itself as a leader in innovative ETF solutions. The company entered the levered ETF market in December 2024 with its crude oil and natural gas ETFs, followed in May 2025 with the launch of Canada's first triple levered index ETFs, followed in June 2025 with the launch of Canada's first double levered single stock ETFs. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262501 SOURCE: Toronto Stock Exchange Third Point Investors Ltd - Directorate Change PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, August 14 Third Point Investors Limited (A closed-ended investment company incorporated in Guernsey with registration number 47161) LEI Number: 549300WXTCG65AQ7V644 Renewal Date- 03/02/2026 (the "Company") 14 August 2025 DIRECTORATE CHANGE The Company announces the following changes to its Board of Directors and Committee appointments following the conclusion of its Annual General Meeting. Resignations: Mr Huw Evans has resigned from the Board and from his role as Chair of the Audit Committee, with effect from the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting. Mrs Claire Whittet has resigned from the Board and from her roles as Senior Independent Director and Chair of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee, with effect from the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting. The Board extends their warm thanks and appreciation to Mr Evans and Mrs Whittet for their valuable contributions during their tenure. Appointments: Following these resignations, for the interim period until completion of the Company's acquisition of Malibu Life Reinsurance SPC ("the "Acquisition"), the Board has appointed Mr Richard Boleat as both the Chair of the Audit Committee and the Chair of the Remuneration and Nomination Committee, and also as Senior Independent Director, with immediate effect. As set out in the circular published by the Company on 25 July 2025, the structure of the Board will be updated effective upon completion of the Acquisition. This will include Mr Dimitri Goulandris becoming Chairman of the Board, and the appointment of Mr Gary Dombowsky as Chief Executive Officer and Mr Josh Targoff and Ms Luana Majdalani as Non-Executive Directors. The Company also intends to update the structure and composition of its Board Committees effective upon completion of the Acquisition. The Company will provide further information on such updates once arrangements have been finalised in the prospectus to be published shortly prior to completion of the Acquisition. Biography of Richard Boleat: Richard Boleat was born in Jersey in 1963. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales, having trained with Coopers & Lybrand in Jersey and the United Kingdom. After qualifying in 1986, he subsequently worked in the Middle East, Africa and the UK for a number of commercial and financial services groups before returning to Jersey in 1991. He was formerly a Principal of Channel House Financial Services Group from 1996 until its acquisition by Capita Group plc ("Capita") in September 2005. Richard led Capita's financial services client practice in Jersey until September 2007, when he left to establish Governance Partners LLP, an independent corporate governance practice. His current relevant experience includes acting as audit committee chairman of M&G Credit Income Investment Trust plc, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange, and audit committee chairman of Odin Re Limited, a Bermuda domiciled Class 3A reinsurance company regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority. He is regulated in his personal capacity by the Jersey Financial Services Commission Enquiries: Company Website: www.thirdpointlimited.com Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited The Company Secretary Trafalgar Court Les Banques St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 3QL Tel: 01481 745001 San Francisco, California--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Digital Silk, an award-winning agency focused on creating brand strategies, custom websites, and digital marketing campaigns, has released updated insights on the state of the web hosting industry in its latest resource, Web Hosting Statistics. The publication compiles verified market data to outline adoption trends, performance considerations, and security priorities shaping hosting decisions in 2025. Digital Silk Releases 2025 Web Hosting Statistics Resource Highlighting U.S. Market Trends and Performance Insights To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10732/262506_c7eac44784ebdb59_001full.jpg Report Highlights Key Hosting Trends The resource reviews a range of hosting types-including shared, VPS, dedicated, and cloud hosting-offering context on their market share and use cases. It also examines factors influencing provider selection, such as uptime guarantees, site speed, scalability, and data security. According to a 2024 report by IBISWorld, the U.S. web hosting industry generated approximately $96.5 billion in revenue, reflecting ongoing demand from businesses expanding their digital presence. Focus on Performance and Security Industry data in the resource highlights the growing emphasis on fast-loading websites, with research from Portent finding that the first five seconds of load time can have the highest impact on conversion rates. Security remains a parallel priority, with providers continuing to integrate advanced measures to address vulnerabilities and compliance requirements. Bullet Points from the Resource Overview of market share for different hosting types in 2025 Average uptime guarantees and their impact on site availability Factors influencing cost variations across hosting plans Latest security enhancements offered by leading providers Projected growth rate for the U.S. web hosting sector through 2030 Expert Commentary on Hosting Decisions "Choosing the right hosting environment is not just a technical decision-it can directly influence performance, security, and user experience," said Gabriel Shaoolian, CEO of Digital Silk. "Our resource aggregates the latest data to help decision-makers evaluate their hosting options in a rapidly evolving market." The Web Hosting Statistics resource is available now, offering businesses, developers, and IT professionals a fact-based overview of hosting trends for strategic planning. About Digital Silk Digital Silk is an award-winning San Francisco Web Design Agency focused on growing brands online. With a team of seasoned experts, Digital Silk creates digital experiences through strategic branding, custom web design, and digital marketing services to help improve visibility and support engagement. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262506 SOURCE: Digital Silk DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Enterprise Imaging IT Market, valued at US$2.08 billion in 2024, stood at US$2.31 billion in 2025 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 12.2% from 2025 to 2030, culminating in a forecasted valuation of US$4.12 billion by the end of the period. Growth is fueled by the increasing demand for cross-specialty image access in oncology and cardiology, along with the integration of advanced visualization tools like 3D and cinematic rendering into enterprise viewers. The rising adoption of mobile diagnostic imaging and point-of-care ultrasound is also pushing the need for centralized imaging data management. Moreover, the deployment of vendor-neutral archives (VNA) for longitudinal imaging records across networks is driving platform consolidation. However, limited standardization in imaging protocols across departments and high transition costs from legacy systems remain key restraints for market expansion. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=259462660 Browse in-depth TOC on "Enterprise Imaging IT Market" 434 - Tables 54 - Figures 411 - Pages By function, the market is divided into vendor-neutral archives (VNA), picture archiving and communication systems (PACS), image exchange, universal viewer, workflow orchestration, analytics, and other functions. The VNA segment is anticipated to expand at a considerable CAGR throughout the forecast period. The VNA market is propelled by the surge in non-DICOM data such as digital pathology slides, endoscopy videos, and point-of-care ultrasound clips, requiring a truly modality-agnostic repository. New regulations mandating extended retention of imaging for AI training purposes and medico-legal audits are also driving hospitals to replace siloed archives with VNAs that offer scalable, tamper-proof storage. Additionally, the push to integrate imaging into enterprise data lakes for advanced, cross discipline analytics is encouraging providers to invest in VNAs with native API frameworks and cloud bursting capabilities. By offering, the enterprise imaging IT market is segmented into software and services. In 2024, the software segment held the largest market share of the enterprise imaging IT market globally. The significant market share of this segment can be attributed to the rapid shift toward subscription-based licensing models that lower upfront costs and align software spend with actual imaging volumes. Health systems are also demanding API first, microservices-based architectures that enable plug-and-play integration of imaging modules with EHRs, digital pathology, and genomics platforms. Moreover, vendors embedding real-time BI engines and customizable reporting dashboards directly into their core software are meeting the need for deep, modality-specific performance analytics. By geography, in 2024, North America held the largest market share for enterprise imaging IT. The large share of this region can be attributed to several factors, including the rapid shift toward image-enabled EHR systems that support real-time clinical decision-making across multi-specialty teams. The growing emphasis on imaging data monetization through research collaborations, AI training datasets, and secondary use licensing is also encouraging investments in robust enterprise imaging infrastructure. Furthermore, the widespread deployment of remote peer review and tumor board solutions across academic medical centers is driving demand for interoperable, enterprise-scale imaging platforms. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=259462660 The prominent players in the enterprise imaging IT market include Agfa-Gevaert Group (Belgium), FUJIFILM Corporation (Japan), Merative (US), Pro Medicus, Ltd. (Australia), Optum, Inc. (US), GE HealthCare (US), Intelerad (Canada), Sectra AB (Sweden), CANON MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION (Japan), Hyland Software, Inc. (US), Koninklijke Philips N.V. (Netherlands), Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany), INFINITT Healthcare Co., Ltd. (South Korea), Novarad (US), Mach7 Technologies (US), Hermes Medical Solutions (Sweden), Konica Minolta, Inc. (Japan), BridgeHead Software Ltd. (England), Sclmage, Inc. (US), VISUS Health IT GmbH (Germany), Dicom Systems, Inc. (US), PostDICOM (Netherlands), Qaelum (Belgium), AdvaHealth Solutions (Singapore), PaxeraHealth (US), and Rad AI (US). Agfa-Gevaert Group (Belgium) Agfa-Gevaert Group develops, produces, and distributes an extensive range of analog and digital imaging solutions, mainly for the healthcare sector and printing industry. The company operates through three business segments: Digital Print & Chemicals, HealthCare IT, and Radiology Solutions. Through its HealthCare IT division, the company delivers advanced imaging informatics solutions that support hospitals and healthcare networks in their digital transformation. Its enterprise imaging platform integrates radiology, cardiology, and other departmental imaging workflows into a unified system, enabling seamless image access, sharing, and collaboration across care teams. Agfa-Gevaert's offerings cater to a wide range of end users, including large hospital networks, academic medical centers, diagnostic imaging centers, and specialty clinics. Agfa HealthCare operates through a strong international network, with wholly owned sales organizations in over 40 countries and additional representation via agents and distributors across nearly 100 others. Its main enterprise imaging hubs and R&D/manufacturing sites are in Belgium, the US, Canada, Germany, China, Brazil, and other strategic regions, complemented by regional offices in key markets such as the Middle East and South Africa. GE HealthCare (US) GE HealthCare develops, manufactures, and markets a broad portfolio of products, services, and complementary digital solutions used in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of patients. The company has a large, global installed base of medical imaging, ultrasound, and patient monitoring systems. GE HealthCare operates mainly through four divisions: Imaging, Advanced Visualizing Solutions, Patient Care Solutions, and Pharmaceutical Diagnostics. On March 31, 2020, the company completed the sale of its Biopharma business segment to Danaher Corporation for USD 20,718 million. The company provides IT solutions, including enterprise and departmental information technology products, picture archiving systems (PACS), radiology information systems (RIS), cardiovascular information systems (CVIS), and practice applications. The main end users of the company's solutions include hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, biotechnology companies, medical facilities, and life science research bodies. GE HealthCare serves customers in over 160 countries, conducts R&D in 18 countries, and manufactures its products in 20 countries worldwide. The company has a geographical presence in North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. For more information, Inquire Now! Related Reports: Diagnostic Imaging Market MRI Systems Market Healthcare IT Market Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Market IoT Medical Devices Market Get access to the latest updates on Enterprise Imaging Companies and Enterprise Imaging Market Size About MarketsandMarkets: MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's Best Management Consulting Firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. With the widest lens on emerging technologies, we are proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients across the globe. Today, 80% of Fortune 2000 companies rely on MarketsandMarkets, and 90 of the top 100 companies in each sector trust us to accelerate their revenue growth. With a global clientele of over 13,000 organizations, we help businesses thrive in a disruptive ecosystem. 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Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 1615 South Congress Ave. Suite 103, Delray Beach, FL 33445 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1868219/MarketsandMarkets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/enterprise-imaging-it-market-worth-us4-12-billion-by-2030-with-12-2-cagr--marketsandmarkets-302529836.html Comprehensive updates improve asset protection, governance, and dispute resolution mechanisms RAS AL KHAIMAH CITY, UAE / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) has announced significant amendments to its Foundations Regulations 2019, which took effect on 31 July 2025. The changes represent one of the most substantial updates to the regime since its introduction, reinforcing the UAE's position as a competitive jurisdiction for wealth structuring and long-term asset protection. RAK ICC Foundations are widely recognized for their flexibility, confidentiality, and legal robustness, making them a preferred choice for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and family offices, both within the UAE and internationally. These structures are commonly used for succession planning, family governance, and consolidating diverse assets under a single legal entity. The 2025 amendments introduce stronger legal safeguards and improved governance measures which include: Firewall Provisions - Stronger protection from foreign judgments conflicting with RAK ICC Regulations. Three-Year Statute of Limitations - Limits challenges to establishment or asset transfers to three years. Cause of Action Provisions - Creditor fraud claims are limited to the specific asset involved and only if rendering the founder insolvent. Duress and Officer Protections - Nullifies actions taken under foreign legal coercion, preserving internal governance autonomy of a foundation. Strengthened Arbitration Framework - Disputes can be resolved privately with court-level powers. Private Trustee Foundation Provisions - Clarifies asset segregation and fiduciary integrity for property held in trust by a foundation. Assets held within RAK ICC Foundation will now benefit from enhanced firewall provisions, ensuring that foreign judgments conflicting with UAE law cannot be enforced against them. A new three-year limitation period has been established for challenging the formation of a foundation or the transfer of assets into it, providing greater certainty for founders and beneficiaries. The reforms also tighten creditor protection rules by requiring proof of insolvency in fraudulent transfer claims, with liability capped at the value of the disputed asset to prevent overreach into unrelated holdings. In addition, the updated regulations address governance integrity and operational resilience. Officers of a foundation who receive foreign orders inconsistent with RAK ICC law are obligated to disregard them, thereby safeguarding the autonomy of the foundation's decision-making. The framework now explicitly confirms that assets held in trust by a foundation are legally distinct and separate from foundation property, ensuring clear asset segregation. Dispute resolution has also been strengthened, with arbitration provisions expanded to grant tribunals court-like powers, enabling disputes to be resolved efficiently, confidentially, and in line with international best practices. These changes are part of RAK ICC's broader strategy to maintain a forward-looking legal and regulatory environment that meets global standards while catering to the specific needs of its client base. They reflect the jurisdiction's commitment to supporting sophisticated wealth planning strategies that balance control, privacy, and long-term security. By enhancing its Foundations regime, RAK ICC is cementing its position in the UAE as a trusted partner for those seeking secure, adaptable, and internationally compliant solutions for wealth preservation and intergenerational planning. About RAK ICC Ras Al Khaimah International Corporate Centre (RAK ICC) is a corporate registry based in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. The organisation provides international business companies and foundations, typically used for private and business structuring, asset consolidation, and succession planning. To date, RAK ICC has incorporated thousands of international companies and supports multi-billion dirhams in structured assets. It serves high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses seeking flexible and secure solutions for long-term business and wealth management. For media enquiries, contact us at: Phone: +971 7 207 7177 Email: info@rakicc.com Website: https://www.rakicc.com/contact-us/ SOURCE: RAK ICC View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/rak-icc-strengthens-foundations-regime-with-2025-legislative-enh-1060655 Holds Position for Fourth Consecutive Year MISSISSAUGA, ON / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada) Ltd. (Konica Minolta) is proud to announce it has retained its position as a 'Leader' in Quocirca's 2025 latest assessment of the print security market for a fourth consecutive year. The global market insight and research firm which specializes in the convergence of print and digital technologies in the future workplace, recognizes how Konica Minolta 'retains a keen focus on enhancing print and endpoint security across three pillars - device-level resilience, managed security services and workflow automation - aligned to support zero trust environments and evolving compliance demands.' AI-Driven Threats Redefine Print Security Priorities Published in July, Quocirca's Print Security Landscape 2025 report includes an industry survey conducted among 400 IT decision-makers involved in the print infrastructure in their organizations. The report highlights the growing sophistication of threats targeting corporate print infrastructure, especially with the rise in use of AI-powered devices. It is therefore no surprise that 40 percent of respondents are concerned about the risks posed by AI, and 86 percent say it's important for vendors to use AI and machine learning to detect potential security threats and cyber-attacks. Mixed Fleets and Legacy Devices Drive Up Breach Costs A total of 56 percent of companies report a data security breach in connection with printing, with mixed printer fleets and older printing devices posing a major security risk. The average cost of print-related data loss in companies operating printer fleets from multiple vendors was $1,237,580 USD, and $832,170 USD for those with standardized fleets. Unlike modern MFPs, which are equipped with advanced security features, older 'legacy' print devices do not have robust embedded security features, making them more vulnerable. Integrating older devices into modern, centralized security management platforms is also often difficult or even impossible. Fragmented Authentication Methods as a Risk Quocirca also found that there is a wide range of authentication methods and identifies this diverse and fragmented approach as a potential security vulnerability. Private Printing Environments Pose Additional Risks Private printing environments are another major security vulnerability. A total of 53 percent of respondents stated that unauthorized persons had accessed documents in a private setting. And while large companies (27%) cite lost IT time spent dealing with the problem as the biggest disadvantage of data loss, the biggest consequence for SMEs is the disruption to business continuity (28%). According to Quocirca, improving print security posture therefore 'requires a multi-layered approach - prioritizing standardized, secure print infrastructure, implementing robust identity and access management frameworks including mandatory authentication across all devices, and deploying solutions that prevent sensitive document printing in unsecured home environments.' Konica Minolta Recognized for Multi-Layered Security Approach Quocirca's report acknowledges how Konica Minolta's 'multi-layered approach to security helps businesses of all sizes reduce risk, ensure compliance and future-proof their print infrastructure within broader information security strategies.' The report states, 'Konica Minolta continues to invest across all areas of its security portfolio - recent examples include developments in authentication, secure firmware delivery, and the Konica Minolta MarketPlace for cloud-based print and scan solutions. Its commitment to ongoing investment in resources and development reinforces its long-term roadmap around secure digital transformation.' Leveraging AI and Automation for Enhanced Threat Detection Konica Minolta is ideally positioned in this regard with AI. 'Machine learning and automation are embedded across Konica Minolta's bizhub One i-Series MFPs, Shield Guard cloud platform and bizhub SECURE offering to accelerate detection, reduce response time and lower risk exposure.' 'The latest models feature improved SIEM integration, brute-force password attack detection and flexible anti-virus configurations - aligning with modern enterprise cybersecurity standards.' Strong Authentication Capabilities Support Compliance Quocirca cites Konica Minolta's multi-factor authentication support as a strength. 'Embedded PKI support for smartcard (CAC/PIV) authentication and MFA support enables organizations to centrally manage authentication policies, enforce secure print release and ensure compliance with data protection regulations - while providing a seamless, user-friendly experience across the print environment.' Enabling Secure Hybrid Work Environments Quocirca mentions 'another key focus area is enabling a secure, seamless and efficient printing experience for users working from various locations,' It also highlights Konica Minolta's Shield Guard platform as a strength, which offers 'capabilities including fleet-wide visibility, automated policy remediation and support for advanced password management workflows [that] are critical for scaling secure print environments across hybrid workplaces.' "We're honoured to be recognized once again as a Leader in Quocirca's Print Security Landscape report," said Chris Bilello, Vice President, Business Solutions Development, Konica Minolta. "This acknowledgment reflects our unwavering commitment to helping organizations navigate an increasingly complex threat landscape. With a proven history of delivering secure, intelligent print solutions - often outperforming industry benchmarks - we embed AI-driven threat detection, robust authentication, and secure cloud-based workflows into our offerings. This empowers our customers to safeguard their print environments and support zero trust strategies with confidence." Visit Konica Minolta online to read the report. About Konica Minolta Konica Minolta's journey started more than 150 years ago, with a vision to see and do things differently. The company partners with clients to Give Shape to Ideas by supporting their digital transformation. Its business technology offerings include IT Services, intelligent information management, video security solutions and managed print services, as well as office technology and industrial and commercial print solutions. 2025 marks Konica Minolta's 20th anniversary in production print, for which it celebrates "20 Years of Excellence, Innovation and Impact," and continues to lead the way in digital commercial printing. This year also commemorates 20 years of Konica Minolta's bizhub brand. Over the past two decades, the bizhub series has revolutionized office technology and redefined how businesses operate. It has continuously evolved to meet the needs of modern workplaces, fueled by advances in technology and a commitment to innovation. Konica Minolta is proud to be included on CRN's MSP 500 list numerous times; recognized as the #1 Brand for Customer Loyalty in the MFP Office Copier Market by Brand Keys for eighteen consecutive years and presented with Keypoint Intelligence's BLI 2025 and 2021 A3 Line of The Year and BLI 2021-2023 Most Colour Consistent A3 Brand Awards for its bizhub i-Series. For more information, please visit Konica Minolta online and follow its accounts on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, X (@KonicaMinoltaCA), and Instagram! Contact Information Konica Minolta Media Relations - Canada Marketing Department, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada) Ltd. info@bt.konicaminolta.ca SOURCE: Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada) Ltd. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/konica-minolta-retains-leader-status-in-quocircas-print-security-1060890 Strategic transaction adds three proprietary defense systems to Next Dynamics' portfolio, strengthens U.S. federal and military relationships, and accelerates entry into the $17.9 billion less-lethal weapons market. TORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Next Dynamics (OTC:NEXD) ("Next Dynamics" or the "Company") today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Integrated Launcher Solutions Inc. ("ILS"), a privately held defense technology company with operations in Houston, Texas, and Ontario, Canada. With the transaction now closed, Next Dynamics has fully integrated ILS's portfolio of three proprietary systems into its product line: ThunderStrike - A next-generation remote weapon station (RWS) designed for versatility across stationary, manned, and unmanned platforms including land vehicles, maritime vessels, and aircraft. The system supports multiple weapons platforms already in service with militaries worldwide. QUAD40 - A 40MM multi-munition launcher capable of deploying any type of 40MM round, including advanced anti-drone munitions. Originally developed for perimeter defense, the QUAD40 has expanded into anti-drone applications and has drawn significant interest from the maritime sector for crew and cargo security. First Solution - A shoulder-fired 40MM launcher optimized for less-lethal deployment. This system will spearhead Next Dynamics' entry into the growing global less-lethal weapons market, projected to reach $17.94 billion by 2032 with a CAGR of 8.6% from 2024 to 2032. Both the ThunderStrike and QUAD40 systems have been well received by U.S. Federal agencies and military units, resulting in scheduled demonstrations later this year and in 2026, including participation in a major invitation-only international defense event. Greg Sullivan, CEO of ILS, commented: "Joining forces with Next Dynamics gives us the scale, resources, and global reach to accelerate deployment of our systems worldwide. The interest in our technology has been significant, and now we have a clear path to manufacturing and opening new markets beyond North America." Strategic Impact The completed acquisition expands Next Dynamics' defense and security product portfolio, strengthens its entry into the rapidly growing less-lethal segment, and broadens its market presence in both domestic and international arenas. ILS's experienced management team and deep relationships within law enforcement and defense sectors are expected to accelerate commercialization efforts. About Integrated Launcher Solutions (ILS) Founded in 2015, ILS develops advanced defense systems designed to protect military personnel and first responders by enabling engagement from a safe distance. Leveraging decades of operational experience, ILS addresses modern security challenges through innovation and precision engineering. About Next Dynamics Next Dynamics is a defense and security technology company focused on delivering innovative, high-performance solutions to military, law enforcement, and security markets worldwide. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, future product development, market expansion, and growth projections. These statements are based on current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors that could cause such differences include, among others, the ability to successfully integrate operations, market acceptance of new products, changes in government regulations, and geopolitical conditions. Next Dynamics undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law. Contact: Investor Relations Next Dynamics ir@nextdyn.com SOURCE: Next Dynamics, Inc. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/next-dynamics-completes-acquisition-of-integrated-launcher-solut-1061123 In a groundbreaking move for tourism and cannabis culture, Hayfork, a remote mountain town in California's famed Emerald Triangle, has launched the world's first cannabis-forward destination brand: Adventure Grows in Hayfork HAYFORK, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / In a groundbreaking move for tourism and cannabis culture, Hayfork, a remote mountain town in California's famed Emerald Triangle, has launched the world's first cannabis-forward destination brand: Adventure Grows in Hayfork . Visit Hayfork: Adventure Grows In Hayfork World's First Cannabis-Forward Destination Brand This bold initiative puts cannabis front and center in the story of a place known for its deep roots in craft cultivation, regenerative agriculture, and rural community life. Located in Trinity County, Hayfork is now inviting travelers to discover a destination where adventure, wellness, and cannabis culture grow side by side. A Small Town with a Big Legacy As part of California's legendary Emerald Triangle, the world's most iconic cannabis-growing region comprised of Trinity, Humboldt, and Mendocino Counties, Hayfork has long been a hidden gem. Now, with the launch of its new tourism brand, it proudly steps into the spotlight. "Cannabis is who we are. It's not just a crop, it's part of our community identity," said Dana Hauser, President of the Hayfork Chamber of Commerce. "We're proud to be the first destination in the world to feature the cannabis plant in our official brand and logo. This is about honoring our history, our values, and our future." What Visitors Can Expect Adventure Grows in Hayfork offers a fresh model for rural, nature-rich, cannabis-integrated tourism. Visitors can explore: Regenerative Cannabis Farms - Meet legacy growers, tour sun-grown farms, and learn the story behind some of the most unique cannabis genetics in the world. Outdoor Escapes - Hike to Hayfork Bally for panoramic views of the Klamath Mountains, cast a line in Ewing Reservoir, or cool off in Hayfork Creek. Local Flavor - Savor Hmong cuisine, meet artists and herbalists, and experience authentic small-town celebrations like the Harvest Festival and Trinity County Fair. Wellness & Retreat - Unplug beneath starlit skies, breathe in the forest air, and reconnect with nature in a quiet, peaceful setting. A Model for the Future of Cannabis Travel Recognized as a Cultural Landmark destination along The Cannabis Trail, Hayfork is now leading the next wave of travel innovation by embracing cannabis not as a novelty, but as a core cultural asset. From legacy genetics to local storytelling, this new brand offers a blueprint for communities that want to honor their agricultural history while inviting the world to visit. Whether you're canna-curious, a cultural explorer, or a nature-loving adventurer, Hayfork offers a rare opportunity to experience a destination where cannabis and community are deeply, proudly intertwined. Plan Your Trip For more information, visit VisitHayfork.org and discover where adventure grows from the ground up. SOURCE: JNS Next View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/travel/hayfork-california-launches-worlds-first-cannabis-forward-destination-brand-%22adventure-grows-1061142 Recognized for its renowned products CleanMyMac, CleanMyPhone, and Eney, MacPaw's innovations were lauded for their user-centric design, stellar usability, and AI-driven productivity features KYIV, Ukraine, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- MacPaw , a leading software developer and creator of a digital ecosystem for Mac users, has been awarded two Stevie Awards in the 22nd Annual International Business Awards - the world's premier business awards program. These accolades underscore MacPaw's dedication to developing products of exceptional quality and value, designed specifically for macOS and iOS users. "Creating software that enhances the user experience has been MacPaw's aim since the beginning, and this recognition is a testament to that commitment," said Vira Tkachenko, Chief Technology & Innovation Officer at MacPaw. "We're honored to be named among dozens of notable companies from around the world that are changemakers in their respective industries. As a company with Ukrainian roots, we're also proud that our book Innovation in Isolation: The Story of Ukrainian IT from the 1940s to the Present was recognized by the judges for its influential storytelling. In this new, exciting era of AI-driven software, we'll continue working with our users to deliver top-tier solutions that meet their needs." Impactful Products from iOS to macOS CleanMyMac - MacPaw's flagship all-in-one Mac cleaner and maintenance app - received a Silver Award in the "Product & Service Categories for Excellence in User-Centered Product Design." Judges praised CleanMyMac's superior user-friendliness and well-rounded functionality, specifically highlighting the innovative Smart Care module for its ability to swiftly scan for system junk, identify malware, and remove digital clutter. MacPaw also received a Bronze Award in the "Most Innovative Tech Company of the Year - Up to 2,500 Employees" category, recognizing the company's forward-thinking approach to innovation and profound cultural impact. MacPaw was commended for its AI-powered innovations - including its comprehensive iPhone cleaner CleanMyPhone and macOS AI assistant Eney - with judges applauding them as smart and thoughtful leaps into the era of Software 3.0. The 2025 IBAs received more than 3,800 nominations from organizations and individuals in 78 nations and territories. Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 250 executives worldwide, who participated in the judging process from May to July. To learn more about MacPaw's product portfolio, visit MacPaw's website. About MacPaw MacPaw is a global software development company building a digital ecosystem designed to supercharge productivity for Mac users. Founded in Kyiv, Ukraine, with a subsidiary in Boston, MacPaw has nearly two decades of experience crafting beautifully designed software used by millions worldwide, including flagship products CleanMyMac and Setapp. Now helping lead the shift into Software 3.0, MacPaw is harnessing machine intelligence through Eney, an AI-powered "Computerbeing," to empower individuals, teams, and developers driving the next generation of human-computer interaction. Media Contact: Emma Djordjevic pr_team@macpaw.com ( 617) 851-5675 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2644150/5460481/MacPaw_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/macpaw-wins-silver-and-bronze-stevie-awards-in-2025-international-business-awards-302530239.html BW GESTAO DE INVESTIMENTOS LTDA. Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima, 4440, 15th floor, 04538-132, Sao Paulo-SP, Brazil THE DISSEMINATION, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION OF THIS PRESS RELEASE, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IS NOT AUTHORIZED IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA, JAPAN OR ANY OTHER COUNTRY WHERE SUCH COMMUNICATION WOULD VIOLATE APPLICABLE REGULATIONS End of the reopening period of the voluntary tender offer for Verallia's shares - BWGI reaches 77.05% of the share capital of Verallia Following the reopening of its Offer for Verallia's shares (the "Offer"), BWGI will hold 93,078,522 Verallia shares[1], representing 77.05% of its share capital and 69.15% of its voting rights[2]. This marks the definitive success of BWGI's Offer, with shareholders tendering a total of 58,238,957 Verallia shares during both the initial and reopening periods of the Offer. As the controlling shareholder of Verallia, BWGI will support the group in creating long-term value, in accordance with the commitments and intentions shared in the Offer document. August 14, 2025 - The reopening of the Offer initiated by BWGI, acting through Kaon V[3], on the Verallia shares that it does not already own, closed successfully on August 13, 2025. During the reopening period, 8,141,380 Verallia shares were tendered to the Offer, representing 6.74% of Verallia's share capital and 5.72% of its voting rights. Overall, after the settlement-delivery of the Reopened Offer that will take place on August 20, 2025, BWGI will hold 77.05% of Verallia's share capital and 69.15% of its voting rights. As the controlling shareholder of Verallia, BWGI will support the group in creating long-term value, in accordance with the commitments and intentions shared in the Offer document. The notice of results (avis de resultat) for the reopened Offer, published by the French financial markets authority (AMF), is available on its website (www.amf-france.org). The documentation relating to the Offer, including notably the initiator's Offer document and the "other information" documents relating to the legal, financial and accounting characteristics of Kaon V and Verallia, is available on both Verallia's (www.verallia.com) and the AMF's (www.amf-france.org) websites. --- About BWSA and BWGI - Brasil Warrant Administracao de Bens e Empresas S.A. ("BWSA") has been operating for over seven decades as the Moreira Salles family's Brazilian holding company, successfully forging partnerships around the world with leading companies in a variety of sectors, such as financial services, natural resources, agriculture, consumer products, commercial services, distribution and industry. BWSA is the controlling shareholder of BWGI, an independent asset management company established in 2008 with discretionary powers to manage the portfolio of investments of BWSA's controlling shareholders through certain investment vehicles, including Kaon V, the direct shareholder of Verallia. BWGI, through its affiliates, has been a shareholder of Verallia since its initial public offering in 2019. Affiliates of BWGI also hold a stake in the French listed company Elis S.A., being its largest shareholder. Press contact: Havas Paris Email: bwgi-press@havas.com Antoine de La Gueronniere: +33 7 85 65 40 53 --- Disclaimer This press release has been prepared for information purposes only. It does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation to sell Verallia shares in any country, including France. The dissemination, publication or distribution of this press release may be subject to specific regulations or restrictions in certain countries. Accordingly, persons in possession of this press release are required to inform themselves about and to comply with any local restrictions that may apply. Information for U.S. holders The Offer is for Verallia shares, a company incorporated under French law, and is subject to French disclosure and procedural requirements, which differ from those applicable in the United States of America. The Offer was made in the United States of America in accordance with Section 14(e) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), the laws and regulations promulgated thereunder, including Regulation 14E subject to the exemptions provided by Rule 14d-1(d) of the 1934 Act (the "Tier II" exemption), and the requirements of French law. As a result, the Offer is subject to certain disclosure and procedural rules, notably relating to the notice of extension of the Offer, the timing of settlement, and the purchase of Verallia shares outside of the Offer, which differ from the U.S. rules and procedures relating to tender offers in the United States of America. [1] Excluding treasury shares held by Verallia. [2] The percentages of voting rights are calculated based on the total number of theoretical voting rights as of July 31, 2025, without taking into account the loss of double voting rights resulting from the contributions to the reopened offer. [3] BWGI is acting as the investment manager of Kaon V, a sub-fund of Kaon Investment Fund ICAV and direct shareholder of Verallia. ------------------------ This publication embed "Actusnews SECURITY MASTER ". - SECURITY MASTER Key: xphwZcpplpmWx59pY5eWbZeXZmlnxWOcaGKblZacasuYmm1jmmxqmZiVZnJkm2hq - Check this key: https://www.security-master-key.com. ------------------------ Copyright Actusnews Wire Receive by email the next press releases of the company by registering on www.actusnews.com, it's free Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-93634-pr-eng-bwgi-offer-reopening-results.pdf Imagine Asking Hitler for Permission to Show Nazi War Crimes NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF) strongly condemns the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for its decision to withdraw the Israeli documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue from its lineup. The film, which documents the personal accounts of survivors and victims of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, was removed from the festival after TIFF cited a lack of copyright clearance for footage shot by Hamas through terrorists' body-worn cameras during the attack. AJCF leaders called the decision "morally outrageous" and likened it to demanding permission from Nazi perpetrators to document Holocaust crimes. "TIFF's reasoning is the moral equivalent of asking Holocaust survivors to secure Adolf Hitler's written consent to show Nazi-shot footage of concentration camps," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. "Copyright law was never intended to protect the perpetrators of mass atrocities from accountability, yet TIFF's decision does precisely that." Based in Oswiecim, Poland, adjacent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is dedicated to Holocaust remembrance, combating antisemitism, and preserving historical truth. The organization warned that requiring documentation rights from those who commit atrocities sets a dangerous precedent that could obstruct efforts to preserve memory and justice. "As the child of Holocaust survivors, I am appalled," said AJCF Chairman Simon Bergson. "My parents lived through a time when the world looked away and when documenting Nazi crimes was itself a struggle against indifference. TIFF's decision is a betrayal of that history. You do not ask mass murderers for the rights to show their crimes-you expose those crimes so the world can never deny them." The AJCF emphasized that the footage in question had already been widely disseminated through platforms such as X and Telegram and is frequently used in news reporting and documentaries under established fair use principles. "Footage that is already widely available on public platforms like X and Telegram is routinely used by documentary filmmakers, news outlets, and human rights organizations under fair use standards," said Simony. "Under U.S. law, and in many other jurisdictions, such use is considered lawful when it serves the public interest-especially when documenting human rights abuses. If these standards had been applied consistently in the past, much of the visual record of the Holocaust, the Rwandan genocide, and atrocities in Syria and Ukraine would never have been seen. TIFF's selective enforcement sets a dangerous precedent that could silence critical historical documentation." Simony further noted the glaring inconsistency in applying these standards: "If a Palestinian filmmaker includes footage of Israeli soldiers, no festival demands signed consent from those individuals. Why, then, are Israeli filmmakers held to a different, impossible standard? The double standard is glaring." He added that courts have repeatedly recognized that documenting atrocities is a matter of public record, not private ownership. "By imposing an impossible copyright hurdle on Israeli filmmakers, TIFF is effectively granting perpetrators a veto over their own exposure." AJCF leaders concluded that historical memory relies on the free and honest documentation of atrocities. "When film festivals close their doors to these stories," Bergson said, "they don't just fail the victims-they empower the perpetrators." The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz), and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students have participated in its educational programs, and tens of thousands of diplomats, military and law enforcement personnel, and educators have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ . Contact: Joshua Steinreich Steinreich Communications (212) 491-1600 jsteinreich@scompr.com SOURCE: Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/auschwitz-jewish-center-foundation-condemns-toronto-internationa-1061180 Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - South Pacific Metals Corp. (TSXV: SPMC) (OTCQB: SPMEF) (FSE: 6J00) ("SPMC" or the "Company") announces that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kainantu Resources Limited, has obtained an interim injunction from the National Court of Justice of Papua New Guinea ("National Court") restraining K92 Mining Limited ("K92 Mining") from interfering with or contravening Kainantu Resources' exclusive exploration rights within its EL 2558 exploration licence area, including: restraining K92 Mining from entering into or interfering with the EL 2558 area, including conducting sterilization drilling, or undertaking infrastructure development (including the proposed tailings storage facility and solar farm); and preventing the Mineral Resources Authority from accepting or processing any K92 Mining applications for leases or tenements over the EL 2558 area. Kainantu Resources and the Company have commenced legal proceedings in the National Court against K92 Mining and the Mineral Resources Authority. The Company has filed for declaratory relief to confirm that Kainantu Resources is the exclusive registered holder of Exploration Licence EL 2558 under the PNG Mining Act 1992, and that it alone holds surface and subsurface mineral exploration rights within the licence boundaries. SPMC took this action following what it believes to be trespass and interference by K92 Mining on EL 2558. The Company's objective is to protect its legal rights, maintain the integrity of its exploration program, and ensure that the licence area remains free from unauthorized activity. EL2558 is a focus of SPMC exploration programs and should the exploration programs turn out to be non-economic, this area is a potential tailings facility for SPMC. The matter will return on August 22, 2025, for an inter partes hearing of the Notice of Motion filed August 13, 2025, as to whether the injunctive relief will continue. SPMC will provide further updates as the proceedings develop. About South Pacific Metals Corp. South Pacific Metals Corp. is an emerging gold-copper exploration company operating in the heart of Papua New Guinea's proven gold and copper production corridors. With an expansive 3,100 km land package and four transformative gold-copper projects contiguous with major producers K92 Mining, PanAust and neighbouring Barrick/Zijin, new leadership and experienced in-country teams are prioritizing thoughtful and rigorous technical programs focused on boots-on-the-ground exploration to prioritize discovery across its portfolio projects: Anga, Osena, Kili Teke, and May River. Immediately flanking K92 Mining's active drilling and gold producing operations to the northeast and southwest, SPMC's Anga and Osena Projects are located within the high-grade Kainantu Gold District - each having the potential to host similar-style lode-gold and porphyry copper-gold mineralization as that present within K92 Mining's tenements. Kili Teke is an advanced exploration project situated only 40 km from the world-class Porgera Gold Mine and hosts an existing Inferred Mineral Resource with multiple opportunities for expansion and further discovery. The May River Project is located adjacent to the world-renowned Frieda River copper-gold project, with historical drilling indicating potential for a significant, untapped-gold mineralized system. SPMC common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV: SPMC), the OTCQB Marketplace (OTCQB: SPMEF) and Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE: 6J00). 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. Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein, including without limitation, statements relating the future operations and activities of SPMC, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the upcoming inter partes hearing regarding the Company's declaratory relief application. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by SPMC, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual 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 and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability of the Company to be granted the declaratory relief sought from the National Court. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. SPMC does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262538 SOURCE: South Pacific Metals Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE" or "the Exchange") today announced market statistics for July 2025. July 2025 Operating Statistics Trading volume of CSE listed securities totaled 1.6 billion shares; Trading value of CSE listed securities was $621 million; CSE issuers completed 92 financings that raised an aggregate $595 million; and The CSE welcomed listings from two new companies, both fundamental changes of existing issuers. The total number of listed securities was 748 as at July 31, 2025. "July was an extremely active period for the Canadian Securities Exchange, with trading activity reaching the highest level of any single month since 2022," said Richard Carleton, CEO of the CSE. "In addition, the month of July featured three of the four largest financings completed to date on the Exchange this year, as Asante Gold Corporation raised $236.8 million, Vireo Growth Inc. raised US$153 million, and Draganfly Inc. raised US$25 million. We were pleased to see such strong trading and financing activity during the traditionally slower summer season." What's On at the CSE The CSE is excited to be sponsoring and participating in the 2025 Canadian Security Traders Association (CSTA) conference, taking place in Ottawa on August 20-22. The annual conference brings together a diverse group of financial market experts to discuss key topics impacting capital markets. Richard Carleton will be speaking on a "Market Place Roundtable" panel on August 21 with senior executives from other Canadian exchanges. They will discuss issues shaping the future of securities trading in Canada. The CSE team will be returning to Beaver Creak Resort in Colorado for the annual Precious Metals Summit Beaver Creak on September 9-12. The invitation-only conference features nearly 200 mining companies and a who's who of expert speakers in the sector. Several CSE-listed companies are participating in the conference, including Abitibi Metals Corp. (AMQ), Asante Gold Corporation (ASE), Blue Lagoon Resources Inc. (BLLG), Exploits Discovery Corp. (NFLD), Headwater Gold Inc. (HWG), Kuya Silver Corporation (KUYA), and Yukon Metals Corp. (YMC). The CSE will be in Halifax on September 16 for its latest Going Public and Raising Capital in Canada event. These seminars provide entrepreneurs and company founders with detailed information and strategies to successfully enter Canada's capital markets. The line-up of expert speakers for this event includes Scott Pritchard, the CSE's Senior Advisor of Listings Development for Quebec and Eastern Canada, and James Black, the CSE's Vice President of Listings Development. Phillip Shum, Director of Listings Development, will also be in attendance and available to speak with attendees. The event also features a networking reception. New Listings in July 2025 SuperQ Quantum Computing Inc. (QBTQ) - Fundamental Change Libra Energy Materials Inc. (LIBR) - Fundamental Change About the Canadian Securities Exchange: The Canadian Securities Exchange is a rapidly growing exchange invested in working with entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors to access public capital markets in Canada. The Exchange's efficient operating model, advanced technology and competitive fee structure help its listed issuers of all sectors and sizes minimize their cost of capital and enhance global liquidity. Our client-centric approach and corresponding products and services ensure businesses have the support they need to confidently realize their vision. The CSE offers global investors access to an innovative collection of growing and mature companies. STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CSE ============================= Website: https://thecse.com/ Blog: https://blog.thecse.com/ CSE TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/csetv CSE's "The Exchange for Entrepreneurs" Podcast: https://blog.thecse.com/category/cse-podcast/ Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/canadian-securities-exchange X (Twitter): https://x.com/CSE_News Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadianexchange/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanadianSecuritiesExchange/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262540 SOURCE: Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) ONEMETA TO HOST A DEMO PRESENTATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2025 AT 9 AM MT FOR ENGLISH AND 9:30 MT FOR SPANISH. GO TO: Join conversation Bountiful, Utah--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - OneMeta Inc. (OTCQB: ONEI), the leader in A1-driven multilingual communications products, announces Q2 2025 revenue of $700,000, a 442% increase over Q1. Net loss per share improved to ($0.01), reflecting disciplined expense management and growing enterprise adoption. Everest Group's recent CXM industry survey found that 93% of enterprises are ready to adopt AI interpretation solutions within 12-18 months. The Everest Group's research places OneMeta at the forefront of a rapidly scaling market, with competitive advantages in proprietary dialect data sets and unmatched enterprise-grade security-two of the main factors driving adoption. Saul Leal, CEO and Rowland Day, Chairman, jointly stated: "Global enterprises in finance, government, and healthcare are adopting our platform.. While sales cycles for these large clients are naturally extended, new inquiries from Fortune 500 companies and major organizations continue to grow." On Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at 9 am MT for English and 9:30 am MT for Spanish, we will host a live demonstration of our proprietary translation and transcription platform-supporting 140+ languages, sub-second latency, and enterprise-grade security. Shareholders, interested parties, and analysts are invited to register at: Join conversation. Each demo presentation will be followed by a Q&A session. About OneMeta Inc. OneMeta Inc. is a Multilingual Enablement company focused on overcoming the communication challenges of a world with many languages. Its proprietary, end-to-end natural language processing architecture was developed using artificial intelligence tools and allows the spoken and written word to be synthesized, translated, and transcribed in less than one second. OneMeta's products support near-real-time web-based and mobile phone-based conversations, discussions, meetings, and online chats in over 140 languages and dialects. OneMeta's technology is fully compliant with SOC2, HIPAA, and GDPR standards, ensuring the highest levels of security and privacy for all communications. OneMeta Inc.: We create a more understanding world. Learn more at www.onemeta.ai To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262539 SOURCE: OneMeta Inc. Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Digital Silk, an award-winning branding agency focused on creating brand strategies, custom websites, and digital marketing campaigns, has released updated personalization statistics highlighting trends in tailored digital experiences and their potential impact on user engagement. Digital Silk Releases Updated Personalization Statistics Highlighting 2025 Consumer Expectations To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10732/262507_a3a5ac0f34e11845_001full.jpg The analysis compiles data from verified U.S.-based sources, illustrating how personalization in digital marketing may influence customer acquisition, retention, and satisfaction. As businesses seek to refine their outreach, personalization strategies such as dynamic content, product recommendations, and behavior-based messaging are becoming increasingly relevant. U.S. Market Insights on Personalization According to a 2024 Salesforce report, 73% of consumers expect companies to understand their unique needs and expectations, while a McKinsey study found that personalization can potentially drive a 10-15% increase in revenue. These findings reflect a broader shift toward user-centric marketing approaches that prioritize relevance and timing. Applications of Personalization in Digital Campaigns Personalization tools are being applied across various touchpoints, including: Targeted product or service recommendations based on past behavior Email marketing campaigns triggered by user actions Dynamic website content that adapts to user profiles Location-based offers and promotions Industry Commentary on Personalization Trends "Businesses are increasingly recognizing that personalization is no longer optional but a key component in connecting with audiences," said Gabriel Shaoolian, CEO of Digital Silk. "Data-driven insights can potentially help brands deliver experiences that resonate more effectively with their customers." The updated statistics provide businesses with a resource for evaluating the role of personalization in their marketing strategies and understanding emerging consumer expectations in 2025. More information is available at: https://www.digitalsilk.com/digital-trends/personalization-statistics/ About Digital Silk Digital Silk is an award-winning Branding Agency focused on growing brands online. With a team of seasoned experts, we create digital experiences through strategic branding, custom web design, and digital marketing services to help improve visibility and support engagement. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262507 SOURCE: Digital Silk AVENTURA, FL / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Shaked Law Firm, P.A. , a premier truck accident law firm based in Florida, is proud to announce the launch of its newly designed website. The modern, user-friendly platform reflects the firm's ongoing commitment to providing accessible, responsive, and high-quality legal support across Florida. Sagi Shaked, Florida Truck Accident Lawyer Sagi Shaked, Florida Truck Accident Lawyer About Shaked Law Firm, P.A. With over 100 years of combined experience in personal injury law and hundreds of dollars recovered for clients, Shaked Law Firm has a strong reputation for aggressive advocacy, compassionate service, and proven results. The new website is designed to further these values by offering visitors a streamlined experience, educational resources, and convenient access to legal help. A Digital Platform Built for Clients The new website features a clean, intuitive design that allows users to quickly find the information they need. Key enhancements include: Mobile-Responsive Design: Optimized for smartphones and tablets to serve clients wherever they are. Live Chat & Contact Tools: Now, it's easier than ever to contact an attorney or schedule a free consultation. Educational Resources: Informative pages on key practice areas, FAQs, and blog content to empower clients with legal knowledge. Client Testimonials and Case Results: Showcasing the firm's track record of success and client satisfaction. These updates ensure every visitor receives a seamless, informative, and supportive online experience, whether seeking legal guidance or exploring options. Putting Clients First in a Digital World The new website reflects Shaked Law Firm's longstanding commitment to client-focused service and legal excellence. Designed with the needs of truck accident victims in mind, the site enhances access to legal help, simplifies the consultation process, and provides valuable resources for those navigating complex personal injury claims. From the intuitive design to the expanded educational content, every element of the website was built to support clients at every stage of their legal journey, reinforcing the firm's reputation as a trusted advocate in Florida. Focused on Truck Accident Victims Across Florida The launch of Shaked Law Firm's new website highlights its focused commitment to representing victims of truck accidents throughout the state. Truck accident cases often involve complex liability issues, severe injuries, and powerful insurance companies. This dedicated platform is tailored to meet the specific needs of those injured in commercial vehicle and tractor-trailer collisions. With targeted legal resources, clear explanations of victims' rights, and easy access to experienced attorneys, the new site positions Shaked Law Firm as a leading advocate for those seeking justice after a serious truck-related injury. Visit the New Website Today Shaked Law Firm, P.A. invites clients, partners, and members of the community to explore the new site and discover how the firm can assist with their truck accident claims. Visit our new website for more information or to schedule a free case evaluation. Media Contact: Company Name: Shaked Law Firm, P.A. City: Aventura State: FL Zip: 33180 Country: United States Phone: 305-937-0191 Website: https://floridatruckinjurylawyers.com/ SOURCE: Shaked Law Firm, P.A. View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/shaked-law-firm-p.a.-launches-new-website-for-florida-truck-acci-1061170 Charlotte, North Carolina--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's leading and most highly trusted and recognized CBD companies, and operator of the leading CBD brands cbdMD and Paw CBD, and Herbal Oasis today announced our financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year ended September 30, 2025. The Company delivered $4.6 million in revenue for the third quarter, down from $5.2 million in the prior year period. Operating loss increased from $0.4 million to $0.9 million. "While our third quarter results were not up to our standard, we have completed a major overhaul to our marketing team and digital designed to reverse our multi-year revenue slide," said Ronan Kennedy, CEO of cbdMD. "These changes are already bearing fruit. We are encouraged by the trends that started in July and believe we are on the right path to revenue growth and can get back to break even in near future. Our beverage brand, Oasis, continues to provide exciting growth potential as the ecommerce business started to scale at much quicker pace during July. We have expanded the distribution of Oasis products to 7 states as of August 14, 2025. Our distribution pipeline continues to grow and we are adding territories and retailers monthly. Regulatory activity in recent months has been markedly higher than usual, spanning multiple states as well as the federal level. cbdMD continues to collaborate with industry associations, engage directly with state legislators, and mobilize customers to ensure elected officials understand the economic and consumer implications of proposed legislation. However, shifting regulations in several states have created uncertainty for many of our wholesale partners, resulting in revenue impacts. We are encouraged by recent positive developments at the national level, including farm bill progress and statements from the White House regarding cannabis scheduling. We believe that heightened regulatory scrutiny will ultimately favor brands with the compliance expertise and quality systems needed to thrive long term. In parallel, we expect this environment to drive further industry consolidation-an opportunity we are well positioned to capture, particularly given the increased M&A interest we have seen since the conversion and elimination of our Series A Preferred stock. Highlights for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2025 and Strategic Updates Herbal Oasis Gains Momentum: cbdMD's hemp-derived THC beverage brand has signed distribution agreements in Tennessee and Minnesota and expects to ship these states during August, with product available for consumers in September. Series A Preferred Conversion Completed: On May 7, 2025, cbdMD executed a 1:13 conversion of its Series A Preferred Stock, eliminating $6.7 million in accrued dividend liability and adding equivalent stockholder equity value. Book Value Turnaround: Reported book value of equity as of March 31, 2025 was $0.67 million. As of June 30, 2025 our Book value book value increase to approximately $6.1 million, post-Series A Preferred Stock conversion and elimination of accrued dividends, exceeding NYSE American's equity Continued Listing Standards under Sections 1003(a)(i) and 1003(a)(ii). The Company is required to be in compliance with NYSE American Continued Listing Standards for 2 quarters to regain compliance with NYSE American Continued Listing Standards. Financial Highlights from our Third Quarter of Fiscal Year 2025: Net sales totaled $4.6 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 or a decrease of 10.9% compared to $5.2 million in fiscal 2024. Year to date revenues are down from $14.9 million to $14.5 million. Our gross margin decreased year over year from 66% to 61% during the third quarter of fiscal 2025. Our loss from operations was $905,000 in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 as compared to a loss of $382,000 in the prior year comparative period. Net Loss before preferred dividends totaled $0.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 as compared to a income of $0.4 million in the prior year period. Our non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA loss from operations in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was approximately $624,000 compared to a $90,000 loss from operations in third fiscal quarter of 2024. Net loss attributable to common shareholders for the third quarter of fiscal 2025 was approximately $1.2 million or a loss of $0.21 per share as compared to a net loss for the third quarter of fiscal 2024 of approximately $0.5 million, or $8.93 per share. At June 30, 2025, we had a working capital of approximately $2.0 million and cash on hand of approximately $1.1 million as compared to a working capital deficit of approximately ($2.2) million and cash on hand of approximately $2.4 million at September 30, 2024. The increase was due to the elimination of the accrued Series A Preferred dividends. We reported direct to consumer (DTC) net sales of $3.6 million or 78% of total net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, as compared with $3.9 million or 76% of total net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2024. We reported wholesale net sales of $1.0 million or 22% of total net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2025, as compared to $1.2 million the third quarter of fiscal 2024. We will host a conference call at 4:20 p.m., Eastern Time, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, to discuss our June 30, 2025, third fiscal quarter and year to date fiscal 2025 financial results and business progress. CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS Thursday August 14, 2025, 4:20 p.m. Eastern Time USA/Canada: 844-821-3524 International: 647-846-2919 Teleconference Replay dial in: USA/Canada: 855-669-9658 International: 412-317-0088 Replay Passcode: 5327882 Webcast/Webcast Replay link- available through August 14, 2026: https://www.gowebcasting.com/14151 About cbdMD, Inc. cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is one of the leading and most highly trusted and most recognized cannabidiol (CBD) brands with a comprehensive line of U.S. produced, THC-free1 CBD products, and an array of Farm Act compliant Delta 9 products. Our Paw CBD brand of pet products includes veterinarian-formulated products, our ATRx brand features functional mushroom products. In addition, we operate Herbal Oasis, a premium, award winning THC-infused social seltzer that blends cannabinoids and nootropic mushrooms to deliver a fast-acting, functional beverage made for presence and connection. With an alcohol-free formula and wellness-forward ingredients, Oasis invites a better way to drink-one rooted in clarity, balance, and joy. To learn more about cbdMD and our comprehensive line of U.S. grown, THC-free1 CBD and Full Spectrum products as well as our other brands, please visit www.cbdmd.com, www.pawcbd.com, ATRxlabs.com, or Herbaloasis.com, follow cbdMD on Instagram and Facebook, or visit one of the thousands of retail outlets that carry cbdMD's products. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements that are based upon current expectations and involve certain risks and uncertainties within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements can be identified using words such as 'should,' 'may,' 'intends,' 'anticipates,' 'believes,' 'estimates,' 'projects,' 'forecasts,' 'expects,' 'plans,' and 'proposes.' These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control and difficult to predict. You are urged to carefully review and consider any cautionary statements, including but not limited to expectations on our ability to continue as a going concern, increasing our revenues, continued cost reductions, potential need for additional working capital, regaining compliance with NYSE American Continued Listing Standards, continued listing on the NYSE American, future profitability, development and sales of new products, and other disclosures, including the statements made under the heading "Risk Factors" in cbdMD, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2024 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on December 17, 2024, Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2025 filed with the SEC on May 15, 2025, and our other filings with the SEC. All forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, many of which are generally outside the control of cbdMD, Inc. and are difficult to predict. cbdMD, Inc. does not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statements except as may be required by law. The information which appears on our websites and our social media platforms, including, but not limited to, Instagram and Facebook, is not part of this press release. 1 THC-free is defined as below the level of detection using validated scientific analytical methods. Non-GAAP Financial Measures This press release includes a financial measure that excludes the impact of certain items and therefore has not been calculated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). cbdMD, Inc. has included adjusted loss from operations because management uses this measure to assess operating performance in order to highlight trends in our business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying on financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. The adjusted operating loss has not been prepared in accordance with GAAP. This non-GAAP financial measure should not be considered as an alternative to, or more meaningful than, net loss from operations as an indicator of our operating performance. Further, this non-GAAP financial measure, as presented by cbdMD, Inc., may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other companies. cbdMD, Inc. has attached to this press release a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure. cbdMD, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS JUNE 30, 2025 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 (Unaudited) June 30, September 30, 2025 2024 Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,059,559 $ 2,452,553 Accounts receivable, net 967,310 983,910 Inventory, net 2,798,682 2,365,187 Inventory prepaid 380,039 159,006 Prepaid sponsorship 23,505 21,754 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 367,907 406,674 Total current assets 5,597,002 6,389,084 Other assets: Property and equipment, net 345,361 454,268 Operating lease assets 874,406 85,817 Deposits for facilities 62,708 62,708 Intangible assets, net 2,315,779 2,889,580 Investment in other securities, noncurrent 700,000 700,000 Total other assets 4,298,254 4,192,373 Total assets $ 9,895,256 $ 10,581,457 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS JUNE 30, 2025 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 (continued) June 30, September 30, 2025 2024 Liabilities and shareholders' equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 1,217,507 $ 1,541,108 Accrued expenses 1,095,310 632,674 Accrued dividends - 4,671,000 Deferred revenue 509,198 503,254 Operating leases - current portion 761,503 98,696 Convertible notes, at fair value - 1,171,308 Total current liabilities 3,583,518 8,618,040 Long term liabilities: Operating leases - long term portion 201,235 - Total long term liabilities 201,235 - Total liabilities 3,784,753 8,618,040 cbdMD, Inc. shareholders' equity: Preferred stock, authorized 50,000,000 shares, $0.001 par value, 0 and 5,000,000 shares issued and outstanding, respectively - 5,000 Common stock, authorized 150,000,000 shares, $0.001 par value, 8,908,444 and 492,383 shares issued and outstanding, respectively 8,908 492 Additional paid in capital 185,192,277 184,033,012 Comprehensive other expense - (7,189 ) Accumulated deficit (179,090,682 ) (182,067,898 ) Total cbdMD, Inc. shareholders' equity 6,110,503 1,963,417 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 9,895,256 $ 10,581,457 cbdMD, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 and 2024 (unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, Nine Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Gross Sales $ 4,606,796 $ 5,173,878 $ 14,469,698 $ 15,365,953 Allowances - - - (440,152 ) Total Net Sales 4,606,796 5,173,878 14,469,698 14,925,801 Cost of sales 1,775,709 1,770,364 5,278,638 5,384,061 Gross Profit 2,831,087 3,403,514 9,191,060 9,541,740 Operating expenses 3,735,773 3,785,542 10,667,834 12,540,595 Loss from operations (904,686 ) (382,028 ) (1,476,774 ) (2,998,855 ) Decrease of contingent liability - - - 74,580 Decrease (increase) in fair value of convertible debt - 854,506 87,380 (591,494 ) Interest expense (income) 9,414 (12,741 ) 28,460 (31,558 ) Loss before provision for income taxes (895,272 ) 459,737 (1,360,934 ) (3,547,327 ) Net (loss) income (895,272 ) 459,737 (1,360,934 ) (3,547,327 ) Preferred dividends 333,500 1,000,500 2,334,501 3,001,501 Net Loss attributable to cbdMD, Inc. common shareholders $ (1,228,772 ) $ (540,763 ) $ (3,695,435 ) $ (6,548,828 ) Net Loss per share: Basic and diluted earnings per share $ (0.21 ) $ (8.93 ) $ (1.56 ) $ (16.39 ) Weighted average number of shares Basic and Diluted: 5,783,354 449,121 2,376,157 399,496 cbdMD, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 and 2024 (unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, Nine Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net (Loss) $ (895,272 ) $ 459,737 $ (1,360,934 ) $ (3,547,327 ) Comprehensive (Loss) income (895,272 ) 459,737 (1,360,934 ) (3,547,327 ) Other Comprehensive income (loss) $ 4,800 $ 7,189 $ (1,200 ) Preferred dividends (333,500 ) (1,000,500 ) (2,334,501 ) (3,001,501 ) Comprehensive Loss attributable to cbdMD, inc. common shareholders $ (1,228,772 ) $ (535,963 ) $ (3,688,246 ) $ (6,550,028 ) cbdMD, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 and 2024 (unaudited) June 30, June 30, 2025 2024 Cash flows from operating activities: Net Loss $ (1,360,934 ) $ (3,547,327 ) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used by operating activities: Stock based compensation - 10,019 Restricted stock expense 3,693 2,073 Issuance of stock for services 82,250 - Amortization 573,801 518,526 Depreciation 290,275 343,527 Decrease in contingent liability - (74,580 ) Increase in fair value of convertible debt (87,380 ) 591,494 Amortization of operating lease asset 499,309 882,399 Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable 17,351 253,361 Deposits - 6,505 Inventory (433,495 ) 827,057 Prepaid inventory (221,034 ) 102,810 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 37,017 152,429 Accounts payable and accrued expenses (194,632 ) 449,686 Operating lease liability (423,855 ) (949,829 ) Deferred revenue / customer deposits 6,008 (88,319 ) Cash flows from operating activities (1,211,626 ) (520,169 ) Cash flows from investing activities: Purchase of property and equipment (181,368 ) (180,015 ) Cash flows from investing activities (181,368 ) (180,015 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from issuance of common stock - 50,000 Note payable - 1,247,499 Cash flows from financing activities - 1,297,499 Net increase (decrease) in cash (1,392,994 ) 597,315 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 2,452,553 1,797,860 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 1,059,559 $ 2,395,175 Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information: 2025 2024 Cash paid for interest $ - $ 31,558 Non-cash financing/investing activities: Issuance of shares for conversion of debt and accrued interest $ 1,079,639 $ - Change in lease asset related to extinguishment of HQ lease and new warehouse lease $ (1,723,544 ) $ - Conversion accrued preferred dividends to common stock $ 2,334,504 $ 3,001,501 Preferred dividends accrued but not paid $ 6,672,652 $ - cbdMD, Inc. SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2025 and 2024 (unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, Nine Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 GAAP loss from operations $ (904,686 ) $ (382,028 ) $ (1,476,774 ) $ (2,998,855 ) Adjustments: Depreciation & Amortization (1) 280,172 287,754 864,076 862,053 Employee and director stock compensation (2) 825 9,321 5,841 16,835 Mergers and Acquistions and financing transaction expenses - - - 58,239 Non-cash expense incurred as a credit (3) - - - 439,926 Non-cash accelerated amortization of expense related to terminated IT contracts - - - 72,101 Non-GAAP adjusted loss from operations $ (623,689 ) $ (84,953 ) $ (606,857 ) $ (1,549,701 ) (1) Represents depreciation of property, plant and equipment and amortization of the Company's intangible assets. (2) Represents non-cash expense related to options, warrants, restricted stock expenses that have been amortized during the period. (3) Represents non-cash expense incurred as a credit provided to GNC to replace expired product. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262516 SOURCE: cbdMD Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Legend Power Systems Inc. (TSXV: LPS) (OTCQB: LPSIF) ("Legend Power" or the "Company"), a global leader in commercial electrical system solutions, announces it will release its Q3 2025 financial results for the nine months ended June 30, 2025, prior to market open on Friday, August 22, 2025. The Company has also scheduled a webinar to provide a business update and discuss its financial results for Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET (8:00 AM PT). Please register in advance. The webinar will be hosted by Randy Buchamer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Legend Power. WEBINAR DETAILS: DATE: Friday, August 22, 2025 TIME: 11:00 AM ET (8:00 AM PT) WEBINAR: https://legendpower.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_cFh2_043QDW8nQIB0YOARg REPLAY: Available at: https://legendpower.com About Legend Power Systems Inc. Legend Power Systems Inc. (https://legendpower.com/) provides an intelligent energy management platform that analyzes and improves building energy challenges, significantly impacting asset management and corporate performance. Legend Power's proven solutions support proactive executive decision-making in a complex and volatile business and energy environment. The proprietary and patented system reduces total energy consumption and power costs, while also maximizing the life of electrical equipment. Legend Power's unique solution is also a key contributor to both corporate sustainability efforts and the meeting of utility energy efficiency targets. About SmartGATE SmartGATE is a turnkey solution that identifies and resolves inefficiencies in commercial electrical systems, enhancing energy performance while reducing costs and emissions. The SmartGATE active energy management system installs after the meter in line with your switchgear. Using our patented technology, we extract a percentage of the load, convert and analyze it, rebuild the waveform, and then inject it back into your system. This provides full voltage regulation (+/- 8%) to your exact specification, on each phase individually to address the main power attributes that impact system reliability, lifetime, and efficiency. All focused on reducing energy consumption while creating optimal power for optimal performance with a footprint designed for today's buildings. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information", including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities and operating performance of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities or performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Such risks, uncertainties and factors are described in the periodic filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the Company's quarterly and annual Management's Discussion & Analysis, which may be viewed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements other than as may be required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/260622 SOURCE: Legend Power Systems Inc. Plurilock will announce Q2 2025 financial results aftermarket Tuesday August 19 Management will host a conference call on Thursday August 20, 2025, at 11am ET Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Plurilock Security Inc. (TSXV: PLUR) (OTCQB: PLCKF) ("Plurilock" or the "Company"), a global cybersecurity services provider, announces that it plans to release its second quarter 2025 results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025 ("Q2 2025") after market close on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. Plurilock's CEO Ian L. Paterson and CFO Scott Meyers will host a live webinar on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 11am ET to review the results, provide Company updates and answer investor questions following the presentation. Plurilock invites shareholders, analysts, investors, media representatives and other stakeholders to attend the financial results webinar to discuss Q2 2025. Q2 2025 Financial Results Webinar Details Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Time: 11am ET / 8am PT Webinar: Register A recording of the webinar and supporting materials will be made available on the investor relations page of the Company's website. About Plurilock Plurilock is a services-led, product-enabled, AI-native cybersecurity company that solves complex cyber problems in high-stakes environments where failure isn't an option. Trusted by Five-Eyes governments, NATO-aligned agencies, and Global 2000 enterprises, we defend critical infrastructure and safeguard the systems that power modern life. Our Critical Services division delivers operational resilience through unmatched expertise, proprietary IP, and AI-driven playbooks. Learn more at plurilock.com. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange policies) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") related to future events or Plurilock's future business, operations, and financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements normally contain words like "will", "intend", "anticipate", "could", "should", "may", "might", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential", "project", "assume", "contemplate", "believe", "shall", "scheduled", and similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, actions, or developments and are based on expectations, assumptions, and other factors that management currently believes are relevant, reasonable, and appropriate in the circumstances. Although management believes that the forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, actual results could be substantially different due to the risks and uncertainties associated with and inherent to Plurilock's business. Additional material risks and uncertainties applicable to the forward-looking statements herein include, without limitation, the impact of general economic conditions, and unforeseen events and developments. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are beyond the control of Plurilock. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as at the date hereof, and Plurilock undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in its most recent Annual Information Form. They are otherwise disclosed in its filings with securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262512 SOURCE: Plurilock Security Inc. Rimouski, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Puma Exploration Inc. (TSXV: PUMA) (OTCQB: PUMXF) (the "Company" or "Puma") reports that it has temporarily halted all exploration operations utilizing heavy equipment such as excavation, trenching, and drilling at its properties in Northern New Brunswick following the province's ban on Crown land activities prompted by the extreme wildfire hazard. Marcel Robillard, President and CEO, stated: "Due to exceptionally dry and hazardous conditions, all activities on Crown Land have been suspended until further notice. This is an unprecedented situation in all my years of working in New Brunswick. Our thoughts are with the local community and residents of New Brunswick, and we send our heartfelt thanks to the firefighters who are relentlessly fighting the blazes currently burning in the province." The Company will provide additional information when available. About Puma's Assets in New Brunswick Puma has accumulated an impressive portfolio of prospective gold landholdings strategically located close to roads and infrastructure in Northern New Brunswick, including the Williams Brook Project and the new McKenzie Gold Project. Both are located near the Rocky Brook Millstream Fault ("RBMF"), a major regional structure formed during the Appalachian Orogeny and a significant control for gold deposition in the region. Puma's work to date has focused on the Williams Brook property, but prospecting and surface exploration work on its other properties have confirmed their potential for significant gold mineralization. About Puma Exploration Puma Exploration is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on identifying and developing a pipeline of precious metals projects in New Brunswick, near Canada's Renowned Bathurst Mining Camp. Puma has a long history in Northern New Brunswick, having worked on regional projects for over 15 years. Puma's successful exploration methodology, which combines traditional prospecting methods with detailed trenching and cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, has been instrumental in facilitating an understanding of the region's geology and associated mineralized systems. Armed with geophysical surveys, geochemical data, and consultants' expertise, Puma has developed a cost-effective exploration tool to discover gold at shallow depths and maximize drilling results. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve several known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Puma to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made, except as required by law. Puma undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. The quarterly and annual reports and the documents submitted to the securities administration describe these risks and uncertainties. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262544 SOURCE: Puma Exploration Inc. Summary: TLC Exterior Cleaning Services celebrates 15 years of delivering consistent, professional exterior cleaning across the Triangle and surrounding North Carolina communities. Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - TLC Exterior Cleaning Services is proud to mark its 15th anniversary as a trusted exterior cleaning service provider serving homeowners and businesses across the Triangle and surrounding North Carolina communities. Since its founding in 2010, the company has remained focused on professional integrity, efficient operations, and a highly trained team - values that have enabled its steady growth and long-standing client relationships. TLC Exterior Cleaning Services Marks 15 Years Serving North Carolina Communities To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10740/262579_5f9d44e7c410a8c5_001full.jpg This anniversary highlights TLC Exterior Cleaning Services' continued focus on field reliability and internal coordination. From its headquarters in Fuquay-Varina, the company supports a broad service area that includes Apex, Carrboro, Cary, Chapel Hill, Clayton, Durham, Garner, Holly Springs, Pittsboro, Raleigh, and Sanford. The team credits consistent scheduling and logistical planning as key to maintaining its reach and performance. Over the past 15 years, the company has invested in workflow systems designed to support timely service and accurate project execution. Routes are managed to reduce delays, while internal communication tools ensure the field team is prepared and informed ahead of each job. These processes have been central to the company's ability to meet demand and sustain long-term client relationships. Recognizing the increase in the demand for dependable exterior cleaning services, the company's 15-year milestone highlights the increasing importance of reliable service providers. With changing weather patterns, seasonal maintenance cycles, and evolving property care standards, homeowners and businesses are placing greater value on companies that can deliver without delays. This anniversary highlights TLC Exterior Cleaning Services' continued focus on field reliability and internal coordination. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10740/262579_5f9d44e7c410a8c5_002full.jpg TLC Exterior Cleaning Services' established systems and consistent performance provide a dependable option in a service sector where scheduling and follow-through are often challenged. The anniversary reflects not just past success, but the growing need for structured, professional service delivery in the region. As the company marks this milestone, its focus remains on continuous improvement and readiness for the demands ahead. With a foundation built on operational discipline and regional experience, TLC Exterior Cleaning Services is positioned to support property owners through changing conditions and ongoing service expectations across North Carolina. About TLC Exterior Cleaning Services TLC Exterior Cleaning Services is a locally owned and operated company based in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. Since 2010, the company has provided exterior cleaning solutions to residential and commercial clients throughout the Triangle region, including window cleaning, gutter cleaning, roof washing, pressure washing, and dryer vent cleaning. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction, TLC Exterior Cleaning Services delivers reliable services supported by a streamlined process and an experienced team. The company is committed to protecting property value through routine maintenance and professional care. Media Contact: To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10740/262579_5f9d44e7c410a8c5_003full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262579 SOURCE: GetFeatured Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Minnova Corp. (TSXV: MCI) (OTC Pink: AGRDF) ("Minnova" or the "Company"), announces that effective August 6, 2025, the Company's common shares (the "Common Shares") have been halted for trading at the request of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). The Company has filed a trading reinstatement application to the TSXV and will provide an additional update on resumption of trading occurs. The Company has received notice from the TSXV dated August 13, 2025, that if, in accordance with the Continued Listing Requirements outlined in Exchange Policy 2.5, the Company no longer meets the Tier 2 Continued Listing Requirements by November 5, 2025, the Company may be transferred to NEX. The Company is actively working towards meeting the Tier 2 Continued Listing Requirements. About Minnova Corp. Minnova Corp. is focused on the restart of its PL Gold Mine, which included completion of a Positive Feasibility Study in 2018 using a long-term gold price of US$1,250 per ounce. The study concluded the restart of the PL Mine, at an average annual production rate of 46,493 ounces over a minimum 5-year mine life, was economically robust. Importantly the global resource remains open to expansion, as does the reserve. The PL Gold Mine benefits from a short pre-production timeline forecast at 15 months, a valid underground mining permit (Environment Act 1207E), an existing 1,000 tpd processing plant, over 7,000 meters of developed underground ramp to -135 metres depth. The project is fully road accessible and close to existing mining infrastructure in the prolific Flin Flon Greenstone Belt of Central Manitoba. Forward Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. 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. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Not for distribution to U.S. Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. Securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262576 SOURCE: Minnova Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Denarius Metals Corp. (Cboe CA: DMET) (OTCQX: DNRSF) ("Denarius Metals" or "the Company") announced today that it has filed its unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and accompanying management's discussion and analysis (MD&A) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. These documents can be found on its website at www.denariusmetals.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. All financial figures contained herein are expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted. Non-GAAP financial performance measures in this press release are identified with "NG". For a detailed description of each of the non-GAAP measures used in this press release and a detailed reconciliation to the most directly comparable measure under IFRS, please refer to the Company's MD&A. Denarius Metals commenced mining operations in April 2025 at its Zancudo Project in Colombia. During the early production phase, expected to run until the first quarter of 2026 when the Company's new 1,000 tonnes per day ("tpd") processing plant is expected to go into operation, mined material is being crushed onsite and then shipped to a local port for sale to Trafigura Pte. Ltd. ("Trafigura") to start generating operating cash flow. First production and revenues were recorded by the Company in the second quarter of 2025. In late June 2025, the first shipment of 64 tonnes of crushed material from the Zancudo Project was loaded and transported to port where it was sold to Trafigura. With grades averaging 9.4 g/t gold and 184.5 g/t silver, the material in the first shipment contained approximately 19 ounces of gold and 377 ounces of silver. During the current early production phase, Trafigura's payability rates range from 55% to 70% for gold and 30% to 40% for silver, depending on the grades of the material. For the shipment in June 2025, the Company received payment for approximately 13 ounces of gold and 138 ounces of silver. Trafigura's payability rates in the early production phase reflect the additional costs they will have to incur to bring the material to a saleable condition. When the Company begins shipping concentrates to Trafigura, payability rates will increase to 86% to 90% for gold and 35% to 45% for silver, depending on the grades in the concentrates. With an average realized gold price NG of $3,303 per ounce sold and total cash cost NG of $2,260 per ounce of gold sold in the first shipment, the Company generated a margin of $1,043 per ounce of gold sold, equivalent to approximately 31% of gold revenue. Total cash cost per ounce NG is expected to decrease once the Company begins producing and selling concentrates. The frequency and quantity of shipments from the Zancudo Project will continue to increase over the next few months as the Company ramps up its mining operations. In July 2025, the Company delivered a total of 266 tonnes of material to port with grades averaging 8.7 g/t gold and 224.1 g/t silver, containing approximately 74 ounces of gold and 1,913 ounces of silver. Payable ounces from July's shipments amounted to 48 ounces of gold and 639 ounces of silver. In Spain, the Aguablanca Project now has all the permits required to commence activities to restart mining operations. The Company has engaged METSO Spain S.A. ("METSO") to carry out the refurbishment program at Aguablanca's 5,000 tpd processing plant and, in October 2025, the Company expects to commence the dewatering of the existing open pit to gain access to the underground mine workings. In addition to financing being provided by METSO for the plant refurbishment program, the Company is continuing its efforts, as operator of the Rio Narcea Recusos, S.L. ("RNR") joint venture, to secure additional project financing directly through RNR to fund the capital expenditures associated with startup activities at RNR's Aguablanca Project. The Company has a 21% equity interest in RNR and currently expects that the Aguablanca underground mine will be back in production by mid-2026. To bolster its liquidity to fund ongoing operating and investing activities at its projects in Spain and for general corporate purposes, the Company completed two private placements in the first half of 2025 raising total net proceeds of $7.8 million. In March 2025, the Company completed a non-brokered private placement of common shares and warrants raising net cash proceeds of approximately $3.4 million and settling related party bridge loans amounting to approximately $1.1 million. In June 2025, the Company completed an offering under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption ("LIFE") of common shares and warrants raising net cash proceeds of $4.4 million. As at June 30, 2025, the Company's cash position stood at $4.4 million, up from $1.1 million at the end of 2024. The Company also has up to an additional $6.5 million of funding available in two further advances through a prepayment agreement (the "Zancudo Prepayment Facility") arranged in February 2025 with Trafigura related to the construction activities at its Zancudo Project. The Company received an initial advance of $2.5 million pursuant to the Zancudo Prepayment Facility in March 2025. The Company also took a step to improve its liquidity while it ramps up production at its Zancudo Project through a consent solicitation process successfully completed in June 2025 that enables the Company to issue shares rather than using cash to settle the monthly interest payments on both series of its Convertible Debentures during the period from June 2025 through May 2026. The Company issued 563,140 shares to settle the June 30, 2025 interest payments and 657,201 shares to settle the July 31, 2025 interest payments. The holders of the Convertible Debentures Series 1 due October 2029 also consented to receiving shares in lieu of cash payments for the quarterly gold premiums due in January and April 2026. Holders of both series of Convertible Debentures agreed to imposing a maximum price of $4,000 per ounce in the quarterly gold premium calculations which commence in 2026. The Company reported a net loss of $5.0 million ($0.05 per share) in the second quarter of 2025 compared with net income of $8.5 million ($0.13 per share) reported in the second quarter of 2024. This brings the net loss for the first half of 2025 to $9.3 million ($0.09 per share) compared with a net loss of $2.6 million ($0.04 per share) in the first half of 2024. The year-over-year change in the net loss amounts reported for the second quarter and first half primarily reflects fluctuations in the fair value of the Convertible Debentures that have impacted the non-cash gains/losses recognized on financial instruments. Selected Financial Information Second Quarter First Half 2025 2024 2025 2024 Gold sold (ounces) 13 - 13 - Average realized gold price ($/oz sold) NG $ 3,303 $ - $ 3,303 $ - Total cash cost ($/oz sold) NG 2,260 - 2,260 - Revenue (000's) $ 49 $ - $ 49 $ - Net (loss) income (000's) (5,012 ) 8,523 (9,255 ) (2,588 ) Per share - basic and diluted (0.05 ) 0.13 (0.09 ) (0.04 ) Exploration and capital expenditures (000's) 2,094 3,027 3,221 5,914 June 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Balance sheet ($000's): Cash and cash equivalents (1) $ 4,412 $ 1,130 Total assets 101,609 81,053 Convertible Debentures (at fair value) (2) 36,101 29,486 (1) The Company has up to $6.5 million of available cash proceeds that may be drawn under its Zancudo Prepayment Facility with Trafigura to fund construction activities at its Zancudo Project. (2) As at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, the total principal amount of Convertible Debentures issued and outstanding amounted to CA$34.2 million. About Denarius Metals Denarius Metals is a Canadian junior company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, development and eventual operation of precious metals and polymetallic mining projects in high-grade districts in Colombia and Spain. Denarius Metals is listed on Cboe Canada where it trades under the symbol "DMET". The Company also trades on the OTCQX Market in the United States under the symbol "DNRSF". In Colombia, Denarius Metals commenced mining operations in the second quarter of 2025 at its 100%-owned Zancudo Project, a high-grade gold-silver deposit, which includes the historic producing Independencia mine, located in the Cauca Belt, about 30 km southwest of Medellin. In Spain, Denarius Metals has interests in three projects focused on in-demand critical minerals. The Company owns a 21% interest in Rio Narcea Recursos, S.L. and is the operator of its Aguablanca Project, which has been recognized by the EU as a Strategic Project. The Aguablanca Project comprises a turnkey 5,000 tonnes per day processing plant and the rights to exploit the historic producing Aguablanca nickel-copper mine, located in Monesterio, Extremadura. Denarius Metals also owns a 100% interest in the Lomero Project, a polymetallic deposit located on the Spanish side of the prolific copper rich Iberian Pyrite Belt, approximately 88 km southwest of the Aguablanca Project, and a 100% interest in the Toral Project, a high-grade zinc-lead-silver deposit located in the Leon Province, Northern Spain. Additional information on Denarius Metals can be found on its website at www.denariusmetals.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information", which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to anticipated business plans or strategies, including Zancudo production and future shipments, timing to commence operations at the Zancudo processing plant, future payability rates from Trafigura, future total cash cost per ounce sold, receipt of future advances from Trafigura, and re-start of operations and timing to commence production at the Aguablanca Project. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Denarius Metals to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2025 which is available for view on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and Denarius Metals disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. 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, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For Further Information, Contact: To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262573 SOURCE: Denarius Metals Corp. The interleukin-23 inhibitors market is witnessing robust growth driven by the rising prevalence of autoimmune diseases like psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease. Advancements in biologics and increased adoption of targeted therapies are further accelerating demand. Favorable reimbursement policies and growing awareness among healthcare providers are also contributing to market expansion. The IL-23 inhibitors market is expected to maintain strong momentum with ongoing R&D and label expansions. LAS VEGAS, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Size, Target Population, Competitive Landscape & Market Forecast report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, addressable patient population, which includes top indications such as Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Psoriasis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and others. The selected indications are based on approved therapies and ongoing pipeline activity. The report also provides insights into the emerging interleukin-23 inhibitors, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into 7MM. Key Takeaways from the Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Report As per DelveInsight's analysis, the total market size of interleukin-23 inhibitors in the 7MM is expected to surge significantly by 2034. The report provides the total potential number of patients in the indications, such as Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Psoriasis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and others. and others. Leading interleukin-23 inhibitor companies, such as Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Protagonist Therapeutics, SFA Therapeutics, BioVie, and others, are developing novel Interleukin-23 inhibitors that can be available in the interleukin-23 inhibitors market in the coming years. and others, are developing novel Interleukin-23 inhibitors that can be available in the interleukin-23 inhibitors market in the coming years. Some of the key interleukin-23 inhibitors in the pipeline include Icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113), SFA-002, Bezisterim (NE3107), and others. and others. In April 2025, Johnson & Johnson released new Icotrokinra data from a subgroup analysis of ICONIC-LEAD in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis to assess the efficacy and safety of systemic therapy in adolescents and adults simultaneously. These data were presented at the 2025 WCPD annual meeting. released new Icotrokinra data from a subgroup analysis of ICONIC-LEAD in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis to assess the efficacy and safety of systemic therapy in adolescents and adults simultaneously. These data were presented at the 2025 WCPD annual meeting. In March 2025, SFA Therapeutics announced the presentation of two head-to-head preclinical studies of its oral psoriasis treatment candidate, SFA-002, at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. announced the presentation of two head-to-head preclinical studies of its oral psoriasis treatment candidate, SFA-002, at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. In March 2025, SFA Therapeutics announced positive data from its Phase Ib clinical trial of SFA-002, an oral treatment for mild-to-moderate chronic plaque psoriasis. The study met its primary endpoint of safety, with no TRAEs or toxicities observed during the treatment period, and no rebound effects were noted. announced positive data from its Phase Ib clinical trial of SFA-002, an oral treatment for mild-to-moderate chronic plaque psoriasis. The study met its primary endpoint of safety, with no TRAEs or toxicities observed during the treatment period, and no rebound effects were noted. In March 2025, Sun Pharmaceuticals announced presentation of a Phase IIIb, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of ILUMYA for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis affecting the nails, results, at the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) conference. announced presentation of a Phase IIIb, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of ILUMYA for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis affecting the nails, results, at the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) conference. In February 2025, Johnson & Johnson announced the submission of TREMFYA for the treatment of children 6 years and older with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis to the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Discover which indication is expected to grab the major interleukin-23 inhibitors market share @ Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Report Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Dynamics The interleukin-23 inhibitors market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven primarily by the increasing global burden of autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Targeted therapies that inhibit the IL-23 pathway, particularly those that block the p19 subunit, have demonstrated superior efficacy and safety profiles compared to older biologics, thus gaining rapid adoption among healthcare providers and patients. A key driver of this market is the successful commercialization of biologics such as SKYRIZI, TREMFYA, ILUMYA/ILUMETRI, and the more recent OMVOH, which specifically target the IL-23 p19 subunit. These agents offer improved disease control, convenient dosing schedules, and lower immunogenicity, which enhances long-term adherence. Additionally, their favorable safety profiles relative to older tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors have made them attractive options, particularly for patients who fail to respond to first-line treatments. Continued clinical success, coupled with positive real-world outcomes data, has further solidified their position in treatment algorithms. Despite the growth potential, the IL-23 inhibitors market also faces certain restraints and challenges. The high cost of biologic therapies can limit patient access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where reimbursement and insurance coverage are limited. Biosimilar development remains a potential future threat, although the structural complexity of monoclonal antibodies like IL-23 inhibitors presents higher barriers to entry for biosimilar manufacturers compared to small molecules. Additionally, competition from other targeted pathways such as IL-17, IL-12/23 dual inhibitors, and emerging oral small molecules (e.g., JAK inhibitors and TYK2 inhibitors) may impact market share over time. On the innovation front, ongoing clinical research is expanding the potential of IL-23 inhibitors beyond dermatology and gastroenterology. Several studies are investigating their utility in axial spondyloarthritis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and even systemic lupus erythematosus. Moreover, pharmaceutical companies are exploring combination therapies and long-acting formulations to differentiate their products and enhance patient outcomes. These efforts are likely to diversify the application landscape and reinforce market momentum. In summary, the IL-23 inhibitors market is poised for sustained growth, underpinned by robust clinical efficacy, expanding indications, and continued physician and patient preference for targeted biologics. However, manufacturers must navigate cost-related barriers, evolving competition, and regulatory complexities to maintain their competitive edge in this dynamic therapeutic space. Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Treatment Market Currently, multiple IL-23 inhibitors are available in the market, with recent introductions including OMVOH (mirikizumab-mrkz), SKYRIZI (risankizumab-rzaa), ILUMYA/ILUMETRI (tildrakizumab-asmn), TREMFYA (guselkumab), and others. SKYRIZI is an IL-23 inhibitor that specifically targets the p19 subunit of the IL-23 cytokine. It is a biologic therapy approved for use in North America, the EU, and Japan for the treatment of psoriatic conditions such as psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The drug is administered via subcutaneous injection every three months, following two initial loading doses. SKYRIZI is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds selectively to the p19 subunit, blocking IL-23's interaction with its receptor and thereby suppressing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In April 2019, the US FDA approved SKYRIZI for treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. The same year, the European Commission also approved its use for adult patients eligible for systemic therapy. In March 2019, AbbVie announced that Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) approved SKYRIZI for treating plaque psoriasis, generalized pustular psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis in adults with inadequate response to standard therapies. ILUMYA, another IL-23 inhibitor, is a humanized IgG1/k monoclonal antibody that also selectively binds to the p19 subunit of IL-23, blocking its receptor interaction and reducing the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. In May 2018, the US FDA approved ILUMYA for adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are suitable candidates for systemic treatment or phototherapy. Later, in September 2018, Sun Pharmaceuticals announced that its European partner, Almirall, received European Commission approval to market ILUMETRI for adults with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis. In September 2020, Sun Pharma also launched ILUMYA in Japan for adults with plaque psoriasis unresponsive to conventional therapies. Learn more about the interleukin-23 inhibitors @ Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Analysis Key Emerging Interleukin-23 Inhibitors and Companies IL-23 inhibitors have a pipeline consisting of products such as icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113), SFA-002, bezisterim (NE3107), and others, which are in late Phases (III and II). Icotrokinra is the first oral peptide specifically engineered to target and inhibit the IL-23 receptor, a key driver of inflammation in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It also shows promise in treating other diseases mediated by IL-23. The compound binds to the IL-23 receptor with exceptionally high affinity (in the single-digit picomolar range) and effectively suppresses IL-23 signaling in human T cells with high selectivity. The molecule emerged from a 2017 licensing and collaboration agreement between Protagonist Therapeutics and Johnson & Johnson, which aimed to discover and develop next-generation therapeutics. In May 2024, Johnson & Johnson shared new findings from the Phase III ICONIC-TOTALa trial evaluating icotrokinra in adults and adolescents (aged 12 and above) with as little as 1% body surface area involvement and at least moderate plaque psoriasis affecting sensitive, high-impact areas. According to the company's Q1 2025 earnings presentation, additional Phase III data from the ICONIC-LEAD, ICONIC-ADVANCE 1/2, and ICONIC-TOTAL studies are expected later in 2025. SFA-002 is a novel, first-in-class oral immunomodulator designed to treat autoimmune diseases, beginning with mild-to-moderate chronic plaque psoriasis. Unlike current treatments that suppress a single inflammatory pathway, SFA-002 simultaneously downregulates several key proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-a, IL-23, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, and IFN-?, while modulating the immune response. This multi-pathway mechanism provides a broader therapeutic effect without the immunosuppressive risks of injectable therapies. Currently in Phase Ib clinical trials, SFA-002 has shown strong efficacy with an excellent safety profile and no reported adverse events, positioning it as a potential game-changer in the treatment of autoimmune conditions. The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies are poised to transform the interleukin-23 inhibitors market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the interleukin-23 inhibitors market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth. To know more about interleukin-23 inhibitors clinical trials, visit @ Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Treatment Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Overview Interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitors are monoclonal antibodies that specifically target the p19 subunit of IL-23, a key cytokine responsible for the activation and persistence of Th17 cells. By blocking IL-23 signaling, these agents reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22, thereby controlling inflammation and slowing the progression of immune-mediated disorders. These inhibitors are approved for treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis, particularly in patients who have not responded adequately to traditional systemic therapies or TNF-a inhibitors. Their therapeutic effect is primarily achieved through disruption of the IL-23/Th17 pathway, a critical driver of chronic inflammation in these conditions. Inhibiting IL-23 results in reduced Th17 cell activity and cytokine release, leading to marked clinical improvement. Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Epidemiology Segmentation The interleukin-23 inhibitors market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 2020-2034 in the 7MM, segmented into: Total Cases of Selected Indications for IL-23 Inhibitor Total Eligible Patient Pool of Selected Indications for IL-23 Inhibitor Total Treated Cases of Selected Indications for IL-23 Inhibitor Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Report Metrics Details Study Period 2020-2034 Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Report Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU-4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan] Key Indications Covered in the Report Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Psoriasis, Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and others Key Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Companies Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Protagonist Therapeutics, SFA Therapeutics, BioVie, Eli Lilly, AbbVie, Boehringer Ingelheim, Sun Pharmaceutical, Almirall, and others Key Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113), SFA-002, Bezisterim (NE3107), OMVOH, SKYRIZI, ILUMYA/ILUMETRI, TREMFYA, and others Scope of the Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Report Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Therapeutic Assessment: Interleukin-23 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies Interleukin-23 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Dynamics: Conjoint Analysis of Emerging Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Drugs Conjoint Analysis of Emerging Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Drugs Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Market Access and Reimbursement Discover more about interleukin-23 inhibitors in development @ Interleukin-23 Inhibitors Clinical Trials Table of Contents 1 Key Insights 2 Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary of Interleukin-23 (IL-23) Inhibitors 4 Key Events 5 Epidemiology and Market Forecast Methodology of IL-23 Inhibitor 6 IL-23 Inhibitor Market Overview at a Glance in the 7MM 6.1 Market Share (%) Distribution by Therapies in 2025 6.2 Market Share (%) Distribution by Therapies in 2034 6.3 Market Share (%) Distribution by Indications in 2025 6.4 Market Share (%) Distribution by Indications in 2034 7 IL-23 Inhibitor: Background and Overview 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Potential of IL-23 Inhibitor in Different Indications 7.3 Clinical Applications of IL-23 Inhibitor 8 Target Patient Pool 8.1 Key Findings 8.2 Assumptions and Rationale: 7MM 8.3 Epidemiology Scenario in the 7MM 8.4 Total Cases of Selected Indications for IL-23 Inhibitor in the 7MM 8.5 Total Eligible Patient Pool of IL-23 Inhibitor in Selected Indications in the 7MM 8.6 Total Treated Cases of Selected Indications for IL-23 Inhibitor in the 7MM 9 Marketed Products of IL-23 Inhibitor 9.1 Key Competitors 9.2 SKYRIZI (risankizumab-rzaa): AbbVie/Boehringer Ingelheim 9.2.1 Product Description 9.2.2 Regulatory Milestones 9.2.3 Other Developmental Activities 9.2.4 Clinical Development 9.2.4.1 Clinical Trial Information 9.2.5 Safety and Efficacy 9.2.6 Analyst Views 9.3 ILUMYA/ILUMETRI (tildrakizumab-asmn): Sun Pharma List to be continued in the final report 10 Emerging Therapies of IL-23 Inhibitor 10.1 Key Competitors 10.2 Icotrokinra (JNJ-77242113): Johnson & Johnson/ Innovative Medicine/Protagonist Therapeutics 10.2.1 Product Description 10.2.2 Other Developmental Activities 10.2.3 Clinical Development 10.2.3.1 Clinical Trial Information 10.2.4 Safety and Efficacy 10.2.5 Analyst Views 10.3 SFA-002: SFA Therapeutics List to be continued in the final report 11 IL-23 Inhibitor: Seven Major Market Analysis 11.1 Key Findings 11.2 Market Outlook of IL-23 Inhibitor 11.3 Conjoint Analysis of IL-23 Inhibitor 11.4 Key Market Forecast Assumptions of IL-23 Inhibitor 11.4.1 Cost Assumptions and Rebates 11.4.2 Pricing Trends 11.4.3 Analogue Assessment 11.4.4 Launch Year and Therapy Uptakes 11.5 Total Market Size of IL-23 Inhibitor in the 7MM 11.6 Market Size of IL-23 Inhibitor by Indication in the7MM 11.7 The United States Market Size 11.7.1 Total Market Size of IL-23 Inhibitors in the US 11.7.2 Market Size of IL-23 Inhibitor by Indication in the US 11.7.3 Market Size of IL-23 Inhibitor by Therapies in the US 11.8 EU4 and the UK Market Size 11.9 Japan Market Size 12 Market Access and Reimbursement of IL-23 Inhibitors 13 SWOT Analysis of IL-23 Inhibitors 14 KOL Views of IL-23 Inhibitors 15 Unmet Needs of IL-23 Inhibitors 16 Bibliography 17 Report Methodology Related Reports Interleukin-2 Inhibitors Market Interleukin-2 Inhibitors Market Size, Target Population, Competitive Landscape & Market Forecast - 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key IL-2 inhibitors companies, including Mural Oncology, Corvus Pharmaceuticals, Philogen, Merck, Nektar, Cue Biopharma, Krystal Biotech, ILTOO Pharma, Innovent, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, R2T Biopharma (XEME Biopharma), AstraZeneca, GI Innovation, Merck, R2T Biopharma (XEME Biopharma), Sanofi, Synthekine, BioNTech, Medicenna Therapeutics, Ascendis Pharma, Sanofi, Synthorx, Cugene, AbbVie, Deka Biosciences, Dragonfly Therapeutics, Werewolf Therapeutics, Xilio Therapeutics, Bioniz Therapeutics, Equillium, Asher Bio, Synthekine, Anaveon, Aulos Bioscience, Selecxine, ProBio, Hoffmann-La Roche, TILT Biotherapeutics, among others. Crohn's Disease Market Crohn's Disease Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key Crohn's disease companies, including RedHill Biopharma, Arena Pharmaceuticals, Merck, Teva Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Agomab Therapeutics, Sanofi, Medibiofarma, Eli Lilly, Morphic Therapeutics, NImmune, Avobis Bio, Alimentiv, Abivax S.A., Roche, Mesoblast, Takeda, AstraZeneca, among others. Parkinson's Disease Market Parkinson's Disease Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key Parkinson's disease companies, including UCB Biopharma SRL, Novartis, Annovis Bio, Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Britannia Pharmaceutical, Pharma Two B, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma (NeuroDerm), AbbVie, Cerevel Therapeutics, LLC, among others. Psoriasis Market Psoriasis Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast - 2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key psoriasis companies, including UCB Pharma, Novartis, Alumis, SFA Therapeutics, Amgen, AbbVie, Can-Fite BioPharma, Johnson & Johnson, among others. About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve. Contact Us Shruti Thakur info@delveinsight.com +14699457679 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1082265/3528414/DelveInsight_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/interleukin-23-inhibitors-market-to-surge-during-the-forecast-period-20252034-due-to-demand-for-targeted-autoimmune-therapies--delveinsight-302529857.html Pan-African People's Studios announces broadcast on ORTM and Africable following the screening BAMAKO, Mali, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pan-African People's Studios today announced the premiere of its new documentary, Reparations: The Colonial Debt, set for 16 August 2025 in Bamako, with a post-premiere broadcast on ORTM and Africable Television. The film, created by Malian filmmaker Ibrahima Sow, confronts one of 2025's most urgent continental conversations: the necessity of reparations from former colonial powers. Weaving archival evidence, expert testimony, and contemporary analysis, the documentary catalogs historic abuses committed during colonial rule and examines the enduring economic pressures exerted on African nations today. The film features contributions from renowned scholars and public intellectuals, including Gnaka Lagoke (Cote d'Ivoire), professor of history and Pan-African studies, and Aminata Dramane Traore (Mali), sociologist and writer. "We have a duty- not just a right, but a duty- to demand reparations," says Dr. Fode Moussa Sidibe, Malian researcher, underscoring the film's central thesis and call to action. Traore highlights the long tail of exploitation with a stark example: "One of the most frightening illustrations of colonialism is the fate of the Congo under Belgium," she notes, pointing to a legacy that still shapes governance, economies, and public welfare across the continent. Despite varied academic and professional backgrounds, the film's experts are unanimous: reparations are essential to restore historical justice and to enable Africa to speak as an equal on the global stage. By documenting both past atrocities and present-day inequities, Reparations: The Colonial Debt positions reparative justice not as a symbolic gesture, but as practical redress for centuries of extractive policies. Screening & Broadcast Premiere: 16 August 2025 - Bamako, Mali 16 August 2025 - Bamako, Mali Broadcasts: ORTM and Africable Television (following the premiere) Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2751143/Reparations.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/reparations-the-colonial-debt-to-premiere-in-bamako-on-16-august-2025-302530672.html Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Tudor Gold Corp. (TSXV: TUD) (FSE: H56) (the "Company" or "Tudor") reports that it has filed a Notice of Work permit application with the BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation (EMLI) for the underground exploration of the Treaty Creek Project located in northwest British Columbia. The permit application provides for the development of an underground ramp to access the high-grade gold SC-1 Zone and to also access the other zones. Once the ramp is completed, underground drill stations will be excavated to support definition drilling for mine-planning purposes and provide for more efficient expansion drilling. Underground drilling is expected to reduce the time and cost of delineating the high-grade gold SC-1 Zone and allow for year-round drilling by Tudor. The high-grade gold SC-1 Zone was first identified by Tudor in early 2024 based on 2022 and 2023 drilling with the discovery hole (GS-22-134) intersecting 25.5 meters grading 9.66 g/t gold, 1.23 g/t silver and 0.24% copper (see news release dated February 1, 2024). See Figure 1 below for a plan and section view of the proposed underground development and initial drilling of the SC-1 Zone at Treaty Creek. Figure 1: Treaty Creek Project proposed underground development and SC-1 Zone drilling To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4494/262604_5ff9196b942a4b49_002full.jpg American Creek Acquisition American Creek Resources Ltd. ("American Creek") has set August 28, 2025 as the date for its annual general and special meeting of shareholders to, among other things, approve a statutory plan of arrangement under which the Company will acquire all of the issue and outstanding shares of American Creek (the "Transaction"). (See the Company's news releases of June 9, 2025 and June 26, 2025.) In addition to American Creek shareholder approval and court approval, the Transaction is subject to applicable regulatory approvals including, but not limited to, TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") approval and the satisfaction of certain other closing conditions customary in a transaction of this nature. The Transaction is anticipated to be completed in early September 2025. Currently, American Creek holds a 20% carried interest, and Tudor a 60% interest, in the Treaty Creek Project. On completion of the Transaction, Tudor will hold an 80% interest in the Treaty Creek Project. The Treaty Creek Project hosts an Indicated Mineral Resource of 21.66 million ounces of gold grading 0.92 g/t, 2.87 billion pounds of copper grading 0.18% and 128.73 million ounces of silver grading 5.48 g/t and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 4.88 million ounces of gold grading 1.01 g/t, 503.2 million pounds of copper grading 0.15% and 28.97 million ounces of silver grading 6.02 g/t. Quality Assurance and Control Ken Konkin, P.Geo, Senior Vice-President of Exploration for Tudor Gold, is the Qualified Person, as defined by National Instrument 43-101, responsible for the Treaty Creek Project. Mr. Konkin has reviewed, verified, and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. About Tudor Gold Tudor Gold Corp. is a precious and base metals exploration and development company with claims in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia (Canada), an area that hosts producing and past-producing mines and several large deposits that are approaching potential development. The 17,913-hectare Treaty Creek Project borders Seabridge Gold Inc.'s KSM property to the southwest and Newmont Corporation's Brucejack Mine property to the southeast. For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.tudor-gold.com or contact: Neither the Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information 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 and anticipated results of planned exploration activities. 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 among others, that the Company's planned exploration activities will be completed in a timely manner. 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 risks relating to the actual results of current exploration activities, fluctuating gold 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 To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262604 SOURCE: Tudor Gold Corp. The courts ruled Wrights version did not differ enough from the original melody to qualify as an original creative work eligible for copyright protection, and that Pinkfongs song had clear differences from Wrights. South Koreas Supreme Court rejected a 30 million won ($21,600) damage claim Thursday by an American composer who accused a South Korean kids content company of plagiarizing his version of Baby Shark, ending a six-year legal battle over the globally popular tune known for its catchy doo doo doo doo doo doo hook. The top court upheld lower court rulings dating back to 2021 and 2023 that found no sufficient grounds to conclude the company, Pinkfong, infringed on Jonathan Wrights copyright. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Wright, also known as Johnny Only, released his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfongs, but both were based on a traditional melody popular for years at childrens summer camps in the United States. The courts ruled Wrights version did not differ enough from the original melody to qualify as an original creative work eligible for copyright protection, and that Pinkfongs song had clear differences from Wrights. The Supreme Court said its ruling reaffirms the established legal principle on existing folk tunes as derivative work. The Supreme Court accepts the lower courts finding that the plaintiffs song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune related to the case to the extent that it could be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work, it said in a statement. Pinkfong said in a statement to The Associated Press that the ruling confirmed its version of Baby Shark was based on a traditional singalong chant that was in the public domain. The company said it gave the tune a fresh twist by adding an upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, turning it into the pop culture icon it is today. Chong Kyong-sok, Wrights South Korean attorney, said he hadnt received the full version of the courts ruling yet, but called the outcome a little disappointing. Anyway, the matter is now settled, he said. Its our work that came out first, so we can handle the licensing on our side and I guess we then each go our separate ways. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pinkfongs Baby Shark became a global phenomenon after it was released on YouTube in 2015, with the original Baby Shark Dance video now exceeding 16 billion views and peaking at No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. Baby Shark remains a crucial product for Pinkfong, which earned 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025, according to its regulatory filing. The company has turned the five-member shark family Baby Shark, Mama Shark, Papa Shark, Grandma Shark, and Grandpa Shark into TV and Netflix shows, movies, smartphone apps and globally touring musicals. Tehran is John Abrahams career best performance after Diplomat. This movie gives a new high to patriotic films without displaying chest-thumping patriotism. Inspired by the 2012 bombing near the Israeli embassy in Delhi, the film follows ACP Rajeev Kumar (John Abraham) on a mission to avenge an innocent life lost in the attack. Director: Arun Gopalan Cast: John Abraham, Maanushi Chhillar, Neeru Bajwa, and others One doesnt need to be a by the book officer to be considered good at his job. John Abraham who plays a police officer, DCP Rajeev Kumar, is one such man, who cannot take his job dispassionately. He is emotional too. From the beginning of the film, we realise that it is not going to be a simple espionage thriller. The twists and turns to this film are plenty. From the very beginning the geopolitical tension between Iran and Israel is what makes the story strong. John Abraham delivers his career-best performance. The script and the cinematography is solid and it never thins down and that is the best part of Tehran. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Inspired by real events, all the characters are fictitious. _Tehran_ movie begins with a bombing in Delhi, which killed a little girl who was selling flowers. DCP Rajeev Kumar ( John Abraham) couldnt get over this incident. Kumar is put on this case. But as usual, he gets personal because he knew this girl from whom he had bought flowers. The girl dies in the hospital, but her face keeps haunting him. He immerses himself in the case as if it is his personal loss. He makes arrangements for this girls brother in an orphanage and spends time with this young kid too. While Rajeev is a patriot, he soon finds himself abandoned by India and Israel and hunted by Iran. This movie shows how he fights back when his own country literally abandons him. Iran wants to kill him, Israel has ditched him, and India has deserted him. These were the exact words that were told to his wife by diplomat Sheilaja (Neeru Bajwa). But his wife doesnt give up and waits for his call. But will the phone ring in Rajeevs house again? A still from Tehran Though Manushi Chhillar, as SI Divya Rana, was given limited screen time. Yet she plays a strong role and delivers her best. Without much dialogue, she makes her presence felt. I dont think anybody else would have done a better job than her. The same goes for Neeru Bajwas role as diplomat, which is also very powerful. These women with limited dialogues show their position in the most graceful possible way. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We realise that the job of a civil servant is not as glamorous as it appears to be. The differences of opinions among civil servants are nothing less than wars, except for the fact that they are first fought in boardrooms. Just like Diplomat, Tehran too is not a typical high-octane action packed thriller where we see John flexing his muscles. The movie is a slow burn. Some may even find it like a documentary. But it is a must-watch for those who take interest in geopolitics because the storytelling is sharp without any chest-thumping patriotism. After John Abrahams performance in _Diplomat_ and now Tehran, it is good to see him break away from his usual action hero image and going for such nuanced roles. Rating: 3 out of 5 WATCH the trailer of Zee5s Tehran here: Russia has reportedly proposed taking military and economic control of areas it has occupied in Ukraine a scheme that would mirror Israels approach to the West Bank. The proposal was put forth in a meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian representatives. But what do we know about such a plan? Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomes US President Donald Trump's Special Envoy Steve Witkoff during a meeting in Moscow, Russia. The proposal was said to be made in meeting between Witoff and Russian officials. Reuters Is Russia planning to emulate Israels plan in the West Bank? There are reports that Russia has proposed doing so to the United States in a meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian representatives. The report comes ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. It also comes after Trump held a call with several European leaders including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who will not take part in the summit. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But what do we know about the proposal? Lets take a closer look: What we know about proposal Russias proposal mirrors Israels plan in the West Bank. Moscow under this scheme would take military and economic control of areas it has occupied in Ukraine. However, these areas would be run by a separate governing body. The answer to Ukraines territorial question is already in the constitution of Ukraine, the Ukrainian president said in a Saturday video statement on Telegram. Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupier. However, such a plan would theoretically allow Ukraine to retain its formal sovereignty thereby providing a legal workaround to Ukraines Constitution, which mandates holding a national referendum when it comes to ceding territory. Witkoff, who is also Trumps envoy to West Asia, is said to back this plan. Thus far, Trump has been focused on a land swap as a way of resolving the war on which he has received pushback from Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy and European leaders. Itll just be like Israel occupies the West Bank, an unnamed source with ties to the US National Security Council (NSC) told The Times. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 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. It remains unclear if the plan calls for Ukraine to get back the territory at some point. The Trump administration has decried this report as fake news. This is total fake news and sloppy reporting by The Times, which clearly has terrible sources. Nothing of the sort was discussed with anyone at any point, White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly said. Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously said that there is no question of Ukraine handing over its territory to Russia. However, their previous words point to something else entirely. The Trump administration has repeatedly said that Ukraine expecting to get back its land from Russia is unrealistic. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in February said, 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. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In May, US Senior Director for Counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka, said the Trump administration lives in the real world. We recognise 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. 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. However, European leaders have repeatedly said that Ukraine needs to be part of any peace process and no talks about land being handed over can occur for a ceasefire without Kyiv. A number of European leaders during the call yesterday with Trump and Zelenskyy said the goal was to get a ceasefire between Russia and the Ukraine. They said the ceasefire is simply a first step and that Ukraine needs to play any part in a peace deal. They also said Europes concerns must be taken into account. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We have made it clear that Ukraine will be at the table as soon as there is a follow-up meeting, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz told reporters in Berlin alongside Zelenskyy. President Trump wants to make a ceasefire a priority, he added. Any territorial exchange in Ukraine must only be discussed with Ukraine, French President Macron added after the call. Trump was very clear on the fact that the US wants to obtain a ceasefire at this meeting in Alaska, Macron said. We must continue to support Ukraine, and when I say we, I mean Europeans and Americans, he added. We remain committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force, the leaders said in a statement on Saturday. The current line of contact should be the starting point of negotiations. The West Bank Israel seized the West Bank from Jordan during the 1967 war also known as the Six- Day War when it fought and defeated its neighbours Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. The land lies to Israels east on the West Bank of the River Jordan from which it gets its name spans 5,628 square kilometres. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is surrounded by Israel to its north, west and south. It also borders Jerusalem which houses sites sacred to Muslims, Christians and Jews and is a flashpoint for internal violence. While the West Bank is home to millions of Palestinians, it is also home to nearly half a million Israeli Jews. Israel over the years has built settlements on the West Bank. Many of these have sprung up under the Benjamin Netanyahu regime, which has made their construction a priority. Israel seized the West Bank from Jordan during the 1967 war also known as the Six- Day War when it fought and defeated its neighbours Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. AFP However, the settlements remain illegal under international law. Even the United States, a staunch ally of Israel, does not recognise the legality of these settlements. The International Court of Justice ruled in July that the occupation of the West Bank was illegal and said that it violated Palestinians right to self-determination. It said Israeli policy in the territories constituted systemic discrimination based on religion, race or ethnic origin, and that Israel had already effectively annexed large parts of the territory. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies On the occasion of its Independence Day, the armed forces of Pakistan will showcase a defence show in Islamabad today. In India, the Congress is set to launch a nationwide rally, Vote chor, gaddi chhodd, aimed to shed light on the alleged electoral malpractices. Also, a new Supreme Court bench will hear the matter of stray dogs in the Capital It is set to be a busy Thursday today with several events lined up for the day. Firstly, the armed forces of Pakistan will hold a defence show in Islamabad today to mark their 79th Independence Day. Meanwhile, the Speaker of Russias State Duma will lead a Russian parliamentary delegation in North Korea to coincide with celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of independence. The hearing for ex-marine Paul Doyle, who is charged in the Liverpool Premier League parade crash, will take place today at Liverpool Crown Court. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In India, Congress is set to hold a nationwide Vote chor, gaddi chhodd rally to discuss the alleged electoral malpractices and voter roll manipulation by the ruling party. One of the most awaited movies of the year, Coolie, featuring Rajnikanth, will release today. Here is all that is set to take place throughout the day. Pakistans armed forces to hold defence show Azadi Grand Ceremony is scheduled in Islamabad today to celebrate Pakistans Independence Day and commemorate the historic victory in Maarka-e-Haq. The nation will be celebrating its 79th Independence Day. A grand parade by all three armed forces, an impressive air show, and special national and cultural performances are planned for the central event. A large number of national and foreign dignitaries are expected to attend. The exhibition, which is open to the public, is a key part of this years celebrations and aims to showcase the nations military strength and defence capabilities. Visitors can expect to see an extensive display of military hardware, including tanks, artillery, aircraft, and armoured vehicles. A key highlight of the event is a flypast by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and para-jumping demonstrations by the armys elite forces. The show will also feature cultural performances and patriotic musical presentations by military bands. New SC bench to hear Delhi stray dogs case The Supreme Court has assigned the case of the crackdown on stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to a new bench. The hearing is set for today. The matter will now be taken up by a newly constituted three-judge bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria. The judges who passed the order are not part of the bench, the court noted. On August 11, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan observed that instances of dog bites had given rise to an extremely grim" situation and ordered the permanent relocation of all strays in Delhi-NCR at the earliest". The order has sparked a big uproar. President of Russias Duma to visit North Korea Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of Russias State Duma and a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, is scheduled to lead a Russian parliamentary delegation to Pyongyang, North Korea, today. This will coincide with celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Koreas independence from Japanese colonial rule during World War II. The Speaker of Russias State Duma, Vyacheslav Volodin. File image/AP Volodins trip builds upon the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, which gained momentum earlier in 2024 when Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Pyongyang and co-signed the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. His visit will further showcase Russias intention to deepen political and diplomatic ties beyond executive channels, and highlight the legislative dimension of this burgeoning relationship. Hearing for ex-marine charged in Liverpool Premier League parade crash A former Royal Marine from Liverpool, Paul Doyle, will be appearing before the Liverpool Crown Court for a plea hearing. Daoyle is charged with seven offences stemming from the May 26 incident, where he allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy into a crowd celebrating Liverpool FCs Premier League title parade. During earlier hearings, prosecutors emphasised that Doyle deliberately used his vehicle as a weapon, targeting parade-goers and causing major injuries to at least six individuals, while 79 people were hurt overall. The incident, which took place on Water Street, marred a day meant for joy, causing panic when the vehicle veered into fans following an ambulance that bypassed roadblocks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Congress to launch nationwide Vote chor, gaddi chhodd rally The Indian National Congress is set to launch the Vote chor, gaddi chhodd rally across the country. Led by Congress leaders like Rahul Gandhi, KC Venugopal, and Mallikarjun Kharge, the rally aims to shed light at the alleged electoral malpractices and voter roll manipulation by the ruling party. Congress will hold Vote chor, gaddi chhodd rally across the country on August 14. Representational image/PTI 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. The Congress MP further stated that the party would escalate its protests to the grassroots level of people in India and alleged that the ECI was siding with the Union Government. Rajinikanths Coolie to release The much-awaited action drama movie Coolie is set to make its theatrical release today. The project starring Rajinikanth in the lead role has already shattered records in pre-sales. The Lokesh Kanagaraj directorial has already made advance bookings worth Rs 80 crore globally. As many as over 1.8 million tickets have been sold before the movies release. The action thriller Coolie marks Rajinikanths first collaboration with director Lokesh Kanagaraj. The film, which is not part of the Lokesh Cinematic Universe (LCU), features a cast including Nagarjuna, Upendra, Soubin Shahir, Shruti Haasan, and Aamir Khan, with Pooja Hegde making a cameo appearance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies The Dominion of Pakistan was created when Britain handed over power on August 14, 1947. At the stroke of midnight, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the first governor-general of Pakistan, addressed the nation and emphasised on unity, tolerance, and equal rights for all citizens The portrait of Muhammad Ali Jinnah is seen at at the Wagah border post as a Pakistani Ranger (top) unfurls the Pakistani national flag during a ceremony to celebrate Independence Day. File image/AFP Pakistan and India were one nation till 1947, when the countries gained independence from the British Empire. But while the independence was a joyful event, partition was something that came along with it. And people on both sides of the border remember August 14, 1947, as a sombre as well as happy day when Pakistan was created. 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. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD One of the most wanted terrorists in the world, Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, who was better known as Carlos the Jackal, was captured in Sudan by French authorities on August 14, 1994. More from Explainers History Today: When construction on the Berlin Wall began in 1961 Here is all that took place on this day across the world. Pakistan came into existence August 14 is an important date in the history of the Indian subcontinent as Pakistan emerged as an independent nation. With this, nearly 200 years of British rule came to an end and marked the emergence of two new nations - India and Pakistan. Pakistan was created as a result of the Pakistan Movement, spearheaded by the All-India Muslim League under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Pakistan was initially set to share its Independence Day with India on August 15, but it was difficult for Mountbatten to be present at both New Delhi and Karachi at the same time; hence, Pakistans Independence Day was brought forward. British Viceroy Lord Mountbatten (centre) with Muhammad Ali Jinnah (right) and Jawaharlal Nehru (left). Wikimedia Commons The power was transferred from the last British Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, to the new Dominion of Pakistan at the stroke of midnight on August 14. The Constituent Assembly met in Karachi, and Jinnah addressed the nation, emphasising unity, tolerance, and equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion. However, the joy of independence was marred by one of the largest and bloodiest migrations in human history. From that day, millions of Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs moved to the newly created nations. Reports suggest that these displacements were often marred by some of the most horrific communal violence. Estimates suggest that up to a million people lost their lives. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The new nation adopted its green-and-white flag symbolising Muslim identity and minority rights, and Pakistan Zindabad (Long Live Pakistan) became the rallying cry of its people. Amid these instances of pain, Pakistan began its journey as a sovereign state with aspirations to build a strong, democratic, and Islamic society. International terrorist Carlos the Jackal was captured One of the worlds most wanted terrorists, Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, better known as Carlos the Jackal, was captured in Sudan in a covert French intelligence operation. Carlos, a Venezuelan-born militant, gained international notoriety in the 1970s and 1980s for a series of bombings, hijackings, and assassinations linked to pro-Palestinian and other revolutionary causes. His most infamous act was the 1975 raid on a meeting of Opec oil ministers in Vienna, in which he took more than 60 hostages and killed three people. The daring operation, combined with his ability to evade capture for decades, turned him into both a feared figure and a media myth. Terrorist Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, aka Carlos the Jackal, in a Paris court in 2000. File image/AP By the early 1990s, Carlos had largely faded from the headlines but was still wanted by multiple governments. French intelligence learned that he was in Khartoum, Sudan, receiving medical treatment for varicose veins. In a carefully planned operation, Sudanese authorities, under pressure from France, allowed French agents to enter the country and carry out the arrest. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On the night of August 14, a team of French operatives seized Carlos from his villa and sedated him. He was flown to Paris, where he was formally charged with the 1975 murders of two French counterintelligence agents and an informant. This Day, That Year Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt became the first person to win the 100 metres at the Rio de Janeiro Games in three consecutive Olympics in 2016. On this day in 1941, British PM Winston Churchill and US President Franklin D Roosevelt issued the Atlantic Charter. China declared war on Germany and Austria-Hungary during World War I in 1917. With inputs from agencies As India gears up to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on August 15, its worth remembering some fascinating chapters from the nations freedom story. Here are some lesser-known facts On August 15, schools, offices, and neighbourhoods across India will come alive with saffron, white, and green decorations. Kite-flying adds colour to the skies, symbolising the spirit of freedom. Representational image On August 15, 2025, India will mark its 79th Independence Day, a moment to reflect on the countrys long journey from colonial rule to becoming the worlds largest democracy. It was on this day in 1947 that the Indian tricolour was hoisted for the first time at the ramparts of Delhis iconic Red Fort by the countrys first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The moment marked the end of nearly 200 years of British rule, ushering in a new era of freedom and self-governance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Over the decades, the day has grown into a nationwide celebration of unity in diversity, resilience, and the shared aspirations of over a billion people. Across the country, schools, offices, and neighbourhoods come alive with saffron, white, and green decorations. Kite-flying adds colour to the skies, symbolising the spirit of freedom. But heres a lesser-known nugget from history the Indian Independence Act 1947 had set 15 August as the date for both India and Pakistan to gain freedom. However, Lord Mountbatten, Indias last British Viceroy, wanted to be present at both handover ceremonies. To make that possible, Pakistans independence ceremony in Karachi was held a day earlier, on 14 August 1947, followed by Indias on 15 August. As India celebrates its 78 years of Independence tomorrow, its worth remembering such fascinating chapters from the nations freedom story. Heres a closer look In 1947, India and Pakistan were split by a man who had never seen the subcontinent before. Sir Cyril Radcliffe had just five weeks to draw borders that would change millions of lives forever. The result? A rushed line that caused mass migration, bloodshed and decades of conflict Refugees crowd onto a train as they try to flee India near New Delhi in September 1947. Some 15 million people crossed new borders during the violent partition of British-ruled India. At times, mobs targeted and killed passengers travelling in either direction; the trains carrying their corpses became known as "ghost trains." File Image/AP Seventy-eight years ago, in August 1947, British India was split into two new sovereign nations India and Pakistan marking the end of colonial rule. But independence did not come with clarity. Instead, it came with confusion, panic, and heartbreak, as the land was hastily through a boundary whose foundations were drawn up in less than six weeks by a man who had never visited the region before. The border that would divide one of the most diverse and densely populated regions in the world, affecting millions of lives, came to be known as the Radcliffe Line. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It marked the end of British India and the beginning of two new nations: a Hindu-majority India and a Muslim-majority Pakistan (which later split into Pakistan and Bangladesh in 1971). But the hurried nature of this division continue to define the politics in the region nearly eight decades later. Why was the partition of India rushed? By the end of World War II, Britain was financially and militarily depleted. The colonial administration in India was becoming increasingly untenable amid growing nationalist unrest. Large-scale violence during the August 1946 communal riots had raised fears of a civil war. While the British had initially set a deadline of July 1948 for their withdrawal, the urgency to leave escalated. Map speculating on a possible division of India from The Daily Herald newspaper, June 4, 1947. Image/Wikimedia Commons The timeline was advanced by a full year, and Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of British India, announced in June 1947 that independence would be granted in August of that same year. Mountbattens announcement of partition into two dominions India and Pakistan did not come with clarity on where the dividing lines would lie. The task of determining those borders fell to an English judge who had never studied, written about, or even visited India: Sir Cyril Radcliffe. Who was Cyril Radcliffe, why was he chosen? Radcliffe was a barrister with no prior connection to India. On July 8, 1947, he arrived in the country for the first time just over a month before the date set for independence. He was assigned to chair two boundary commissions, one each for the provinces of Punjab and Bengal, which were to be divided due to their mixed religious demographics. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Cyril Radcliffe also served as the first chancellor of the University of Warwick from its 1965 foundation until 1977. Image/National Portrait Gallery, London The reasoning behind his selection was based on his presumed impartiality. His lack of familiarity with Indian politics and geography was seen as a virtue, under the logic that someone with no personal or political bias could be trusted with an even-handed decision. However, his lack of local knowledge quickly became a liability. Radcliffe himself acknowledged the limits of his capabilities and the near-impossible task at hand. In a 1971 interview with journalist Kuldip Nayar, Radcliffe recalled how close he had come to assigning Lahore to India before being warned that Pakistan would be left without any major urban centre if that were to happen. He told Nayar, The time at my disposal was so short that I could not do a better job. However, if I had two to three years, I might have improved on what I did. Despite recognising the enormity of the task and his unsuitability, Radcliffe accepted the assignment out of a sense of duty. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD By August 12, just five weeks after he began, he submitted his recommendations to Mountbatten. He departed India the very next day and never returned. Notably, he refused to accept payment for his work after learning about the communal violence that erupted. How were the India-Pakistan borders decided? Radcliffe was instructed to draw the borders based on religious demographics primarily the distribution of Hindus and Muslims but was also told to factor in other considerations. These additional variables were never clearly defined but are believed to have included infrastructure, such as irrigation networks and railway systems, as well as economic and administrative viability. Map Prevailing Religions of the British Indian Empire, 1909 Key: Pink Hindu Green Muslim Diagonal lines Sikh (small area in Punjab) Yellow Buddhist (Burma and Chittagong Hill Tracts) Blue Christian (Goa) Purple Animist (several inland hilly areas) The Andaman islands are not mapped. Image/John George Bartholomew - The Imperial Gazetteer of India, Oxford University Press, 1909. The ambiguity surrounding these considerations meant that Radcliffe had immense discretionary power. He was not only tasked with dividing land but with drawing a line through the hearts of communities, districts, and even families. His decisions, although aided by local legal advisers two each from the Congress and the Muslim League were ultimately final. With Radcliffe holding the deciding vote in each commission, his judgement became the basis for the creation of two nations. The job was made more difficult by the complex demography of the subcontinent. In provinces like Punjab and Bengal, there was no overwhelming religious majority. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Populations were mixed at various administrative levels districts, tehsils, towns, and even villages. The Punjab Boundary Commission saw conflicting claims. The Muslim League insisted on the inclusion of Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, and laid claim to areas such as Ferozepur, Jullundur, Amritsar, Ambala, and Hoshiarpur based on the principle of contiguous Muslim-majority regions. The Congress, meanwhile, argued that Hindu and Sikh economic dominance in certain areas like Lahore and Gurdaspur should tilt the decision in Indias favour. The Akali Dal, representing the Sikhs, also lobbied hard, focusing on control over canal systems vital to agriculture. A discussion on the partition of India involving (from left) Jawaharlal Nehru, vice president of the interim government; Lord Hastings Lionel Ismay, counsellor to Lord Mountbatten; Lord Mountbatten, Indias viceroy; and Mohammed Ali Jinnah, president of the All India Muslim League. In Bengal, the challenge was even greater. The border here was nearly six times longer than in Punjab. Religious and political loyalties were deeply entwined with economic and cultural realities. The Hindu Mahasabha also added its own voice. Radcliffe was so pressed for time that he could not even attend key public hearings in Lahore, remaining instead in Bengal to complete his assignment. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ultimately, Punjab was split into East Punjab (India) and West Punjab (Pakistan), while Bengal was divided into West Bengal (India) and East Bengal (Pakistan, later Bangladesh). The provinces of Sindh and Balochistan, being Muslim-majority, were awarded entirely to Pakistan with minimal contestation. What happened after the partition? The consequences of Radcliffes lines were immediate and catastrophic. Over 10 million people were displaced in the months that followed, as Hindus and Sikhs fled Pakistan and Muslims moved toward Pakistan from India. This migration, unlike any before it, was marked by brutal violence, massacres, and sexual violence on a horrifying scale. Indian soldiers walking through the debris of a building in the Chowk Bijli Wala area of Amristar, Punjab, during unrest following the partition. File Image/AFP Estimates suggest that between 200,000 and one million people were killed during the mass movement. Thousands more died from disease and starvation in refugee camps. Women were especially vulnerable; tens of thousands were raped, abducted, or mutilated, regardless of religious identity. Families were torn apart, homes were abandoned, and entire towns were emptied of their original populations. The postal services, military divisions, currency systems, and civil administrations of what had been a unified colony had to be split almost overnight. While Punjab saw much of the immediate bloodshed, the consequences of partition in Bengal were drawn out over decades. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Waves of refugees from East Pakistan, and later Bangladesh, continued arriving in West Bengal well into the late 20th century. By 1981, it was estimated that one in every six people in West Bengal was a refugee, significantly impacting the states population density, economy, and political dynamics. A refugee special train at Ambala Station during the Partition of India. Image/Govt of India The issues faced by these displaced populations landlessness, job insecurity, communal tensionscontinue to affect the region today. In many ways, the legacy of Radcliffes border-drawing still dictates the demographic and political challenges of the eastern part of India. In the words of Lord Mountbatten, For more than hundred years you have lived together My great hope was that communal differences would not destroy all of this But communal differences did indeed fracture the unity. The line drawn by the English judge with little knowledge of the subcontinent created a wound that has never fully healed. What happened to Kashmir? While the Radcliffe Line dealt primarily with British provinces, princely states semi-autonomous regions under local rulers were allowed to choose which nation to join. Among them, Jammu and Kashmir, a Muslim-majority region ruled by a Hindu Maharaja, became the most contentious. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Maharajas decision to accede to India after independence was met with outrage in Pakistan. This triggered the first India-Pakistan war in 1947-48 and sowed the seeds for a dispute that continues more than seven decades later. A battery of Indian army artillery guns fire at the positions of Islamic guerillas in the Dras sector of Kashmir, June 1, 1999. File Image/AP Four wars, multiple skirmishes, and enduring political hostility between the two countries all stem from the unresolved status of Kashmir, a region whose fate was influenced by the same hasty decisions that defined partition. What is Radcliffes legacy? Radcliffe returned to Britain after submitting his report and remained largely silent about the partition for the rest of his life. He passed away in April 1977, having never revisited India. He knew the consequences of his work were tragic, and he was reportedly deeply affected by the human cost that followed. In this September, 27, 1947 file photo, Muslim refugees crowd onto a train bound for Pakistan, as it leaves the New Delhi, India. File Image/AP According to a poem written about him and countless historical analyses, Radcliffes line has been seen as a tool of fate, determining the identity and destiny of people with clinical indifference. "He got down to work, to the task of settling the fate Of millions. The maps at his disposal were out of date And the Census Returns almost certainly incorrect, But there was no time to check them, no time to inspect" - an excerpt from British-American poet Wystan Hugh Audens Partition. His decisions have been the subject of intense historical scrutiny. Many scholars argue that the Radcliffe Line is among the most arbitrary and unscientific international borders ever drawn. To understand the borders of India and Pakistan is to confront one of the most tragic chapters in the history of the subcontinent. As generations grow up hearing tales of the freedom struggle, it is equally important to remember the stories of those who lost homes, families, and lives because of a line. Also Watch: With inputs from agencies A major political storm has erupted after multiple civic bodies in Maharashtra directed meat shops and slaughterhouses to remain closed this Independence Day. Several Opposition leaders, and surprisingly Deputy CM Ajit Pawar as well, have criticised the ban as an attack on peoples food choices, while CM Devendra Fadnavis has defended it as an old rule dating back more than three decades In Maharashtra, multiple civic bodies have ordered meat shops and abattoirs to remain shut on August 15. Some of these orders also extend to other dates, citing Hindu and Jain festivals. Image for Representation. AFP A fresh political storm is brewing, and its all about meat. Several civic bodies across India have ordered meat shops and slaughterhouses to remain shut on Independence Day, a move that has stirred up sharp reactions from politicians across party lines. In Maharashtra, opposition leaders are accusing the state of policing peoples food habits, while the ruling party leaders are busy dodging the blame. Heres a look at whats unfolding. MVA, Ajit Pawar hit out at BJP over meat ban In Maharashtra, multiple civic bodies have ordered meat shops and abattoirs to remain shut on August 15. Some of these orders also extend to other dates, citing Hindu and Jain festivals. The move has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising Congress, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), and Sharad Pawars NCP (SP), who accused the state of policing peoples food choices. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Thane, the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation issued such a directive, prompting a strong reaction from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray. He demanded the municipal commissioners suspension, arguing that deciding who eats what is not his job. #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 What we eat on Independence Day is our right, our freedom. They cannot tell us whether to eat, Thackeray said. 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? The municipal corporation should focus on issues such as potholes on roads. In a rare move, Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar also joined the criticism after a similar order was issued in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. 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 said. Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar also joined the criticism that multiple civic bodies have ordered meat shops and abattoirs to remain shut on August 15. File image Municipal corporations of Nagpur, Nashik and Malegaon have also issued similar orders within their jurisdiction on Independence Day. The Congress, meanwhile, claimed the Mahayuti government was creating controversies on nonsensical" issues such as pigeon-feeding in cities and engaging in menu management to divert attention from serious issues. Nothing new, decision in place since 1988, says Maha CM As the debate over the Independence Day meat ban gathered steam, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stepped in to clarify that this wasnt some fresh decision by his government, but an old rule dating back more than three decades. 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, adding that the controversy was unnecessary. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 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 He stressed that the state government had no interest in policing peoples food habits. The state government is not interested in (knowing) who eats what. We have many other issues to address, he said. After Fadnavis pointed to the 1988 directive, the BJP further clarified the origins of the rule. Party leaders said it was actually framed by the Congress government under Shankarrao Chavan, and first implemented when Sharad Pawar became chief minister. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Within a month in 1988, Sharad Pawar became the chief minister and implemented the policy for the first time, BJPs state chief spokesperson Keshav Upadhye explained. Upadhye also took a swipe at NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad and Aaditya Thackeray, both of whom have opposed the closures. He asked if they were prepared to confront Sharad Pawar about the policy, considering that during the MVA government (November 2019 to June 2022), when both leaders were ministers, the same practice continued without objection. Will they seek a response from Sharad Pawar for taking such a decision back then? Will they criticise him too? Upadhye questioned. 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. Unconstitutional: Owaisi slams meat ban in Hyderabad The row over meat bans isnt limited to Maharashtra. In Hyderabad, AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi has lashed out at the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for ordering slaughterhouses and meat shops to remain shut on 15 and 16 August Independence Day and Janmashtami. 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 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Many municipal corporations across India seem to have passed such orders, and sadly, GHMC has followed suit. This is callous and unconstitutional, Owaisi said, questioning, Whats the connection between eating meat and celebrating Independence Day? Pointing out that 99 per cent of Telanganas people eat meat, he argued that such bans trample on peoples right to liberty, privacy, livelihood, culture, nutrition and religion. With input from agencies Over 30 people are dead and several are injured after a cloudburst hit a remote mountain village in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. It triggered flash floods, which swept away a langar and structures at Chashoti village. J&K is prone to natural disasters, including landslides and earthquakes. But why? Damaged structures and uprooted trees at an area after a massive cloudburst at Chasoti village, in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, August 14, 2025. PTI Days after Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir reported a cloudburst that triggered flash floods. At least 30 people died and dozens of others were injured on Thursday (August 14) when a massive cloudburst struck a remote mountain village in the Kishtwar district. The tragedy occurred at Chashoti, the last motorable village en route to the Machail Mata temple, earlier in the day. The incident has once again sparked concerns about such disasters that leave a trail of death and destruction. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lets take a closer look. What is a cloudburst? A cloudburst is a sudden, intense downpour of rain that occurs over a small area in a short period. An event is defined as a cloudburst when rainfall of about 10 cm or above per hour is recorded over a place nearly 10 km x 10 km in area. Cloudbursts are more common in mountainous regions during monsoons. At higher altitudes, moisture-laden clouds are unable to generate rain owing to the upward movement of a very warm current of air. This air current carries raindrops upwards. As they rise, new drops are formed and existing ones grow in size. When the raindrops become too heavy for the cloud to hold, they drop down suddenly at once. Ruchit Kulkarni, an Indian meteorologist studying extreme rainfall at the University of Melbourne, told The Guardian that in the Himalayan foothills, moisture that often comes from the Arabian Sea to the west is swept up by mountains in a phenomenon known as orographic lift. This forms cumulonimbus clouds that can accumulate large rain droplets. So we have this moist airflow being lifted up and the cloud gets bigger and bigger and with no chance to have rainfall, it becomes so heavy that at a point, it starts bursting, explained Kulkarni. This sudden, heavy rain released due to a cloudburst can quickly overwhelm drainage systems in hilly areas, triggering flash floods and landslides. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What happened in J&Ks Kishtwar? At least 38 people, including two Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, lost their lives after a cloudburst hit the remote mountain village of Chashoti in J&Ks Kishtwar district. The death toll could increase, officials have warned, as per PTI. Reports say that 120 people have been rescued, of whom 38 are in serious condition. The cloudburst sparked flash floods at Chashoti village, where many devotees had gathered for the annual Machail Mata yatra. VIDEO | Kishtwar, Himachal Pradesh: Massive cloudburst hits the region; visuals show extensive damage and panic in affected areas. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/5K36ADrKqh Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 14, 2025 The 8.5-kilometre trek to the 9,500-feet-high temple begins from this village, which is about 90 kilometres from Kishtwar town. Flash floods washed away several structures, including shops and a security outpost. A langar (community kitchen) set up for the devotees witnessed the brunt of the disaster. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Rescue operations are underway, with teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, Indian Army and local volunteers on the ground. Armys White Knight Corps said efforts are on to safeguard lives and help the survivors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah were among those to express anguish over the tragedy. Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and CM Abdullah, assuring all possible assistance. ALSO READ: How flash floods wreaked havoc in Uttarakhand village Why is J&K vulnerable? Jammu and Kashmirs topography makes it prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, avalanches, and snowstorms. The region has also seen a rise in instances of cloudbursts and flash floods in recent years. As per a Greater Kashmir report, the melting of glaciers has led to the formation of glacial lakes in the mountain ranges of Kashmir. As temperatures increase due to global warming, there is an enhanced risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF). The Himalayas are warming, which has caused erratic weather patterns in the region. In Jammu and Kashmir, this makes communities and infrastructure more prone to cryosphere-related hazards, the report noted. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The problem could be more devastating if cloudbursts were reported near glacial lakes. Cloudbursts can trigger flash floods in these lakes. Moreover, the Glacial Lake Outburst Floods would severely impact downstream populations due to the sudden outburst of glacial lakes. With inputs from agencies US First Lady Melania Trump has threatened to sue Hunter Biden for over $1 billion (nearly Rs 8,800 crores) over remarks linking her to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. She has demanded that the former presidents son retract his statements about Epstein and issue a public apology. Hunter Biden alleged that Epstein had introduced Donald Trump to Melania in the late 1990s The letter is dated August 6 and was first reported on Wednesday. Reuters/File Photo US First Lady Melania Trump has warned that she will sue Hunter Biden for more than $1 billion over his comments linking her to sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. She has asked the former first son to withdraw his statements about Epstein and make a public apology. If he refuses, she plans to take legal action to seek damages for what she describes as overwhelming financial and reputational harm. Notably, the Donald Trump administration has recently faced renewed attention over Epstein after the Department of Justice said last month it would not share more details from its investigation into his prison death in 2019, which was ruled a suicide. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD ALSO READ | Why did Trump and Jeffrey Epstein really fall out? In this explainer, we look at Melanias notice to Hunter Biden and the controversy surrounding the case. Lets find out: Inside Melania Trumps $1 billion notice to Hunter Biden Melania Trumps lawyer has demanded that Hunter Biden immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements he made about the First Lady in an interview earlier this month on the YouTube show Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan. Failure to comply will leave Mrs. Trump with no choice but to pursue any and all legal rights and remedies available to her to recover the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that you have caused her to suffer, Florida-based lawyer Alejandro Brito wrote in his letter to Hunter and his lawyer, Abbe Lowell, Fox News reported. Notably, Hunter Biden claimed it was beyond a doubt that the president and Jeffrey Epstein were very close friends and that the sex offender introduced Trump to the future First Lady in the late 1990s. Hunter Biden made the statement in an interview on a YouTube show. Reuters/File Photo He referred to a Daily Beast article based on claims from Trump biographer Michael Wolff. The Daily Beast later removed the story after receiving a letter from Melania Trumps lawyer challenging its headline and framing. The First Ladys legal notice says Wolffs false narrative was the basis for Hunter Bidens remarks and added that if he did not withdraw his statements and issue an apology, she would take further legal action. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They spent an enormous amount of time together, Hunter Biden said about the president and Epstein in his interview with Callaghan. Thats how Melania, and the First Lady and the president met. Yeah, according to Michael Wolff. Notably, the US President and First Lady have long said that they met through Paolo Zampolli, a modelling agent, at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. The letter is dated August 6 and was first reported on Wednesday. What happens next? The notice required Joe Bidens son to meet its conditions by August 7. If you do not comply with the above by August 7, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. EST, 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, Brito wrote. You are on notice. A source familiar with the matter told Fox News that Biden did not meet the August 7 deadline. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The US President and First Lady have long said that they met through Paolo Zampolli. Reuters/File Photo The Epstein files The legal notice follows weeks of calls for the White House to release the so-called Epstein files, which are previously unreleased records connected to the criminal investigation into the convicted paedophile. Epstein was charged in 2019 with sex trafficking minors in Florida and New York. He died in prison while awaiting trial. Although his death was officially ruled a suicide, the circumstances have fuelled speculation and conspiracy theories. A Justice Department memo said no additional documents related to the case would be made public. The decision drew sharp criticism from some Trump supporters who had expected full disclosure under the current administration. Trump has also filed a $10 billion defamation suit against The Wall Street Journal and Rupert Murdoch over a story about a sexually suggestive letter bearing Trumps name, which was included in a 2003 album made for Epsteins birthday. With inputs from agencies External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will travel to Moscow next week, where he will meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on August 21. Talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin could also be on the cards. Before the EAMs trip, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to be in India. The two visits come amid a strain in New Delhis ties with the US over trade Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit India next week. Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will head to Russia. File Photo/Reuters India will boost engagement with Russia and China at the top levels over the coming weeks, amid a strain in ties with the United States over trade. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be in Moscow next week to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on August 21. Before Jaishankar heads to Russia, India is reportedly preparing to host Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. This will be the first high-level visit from China following a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May after Operation Sindoor. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As relations with the US take a hit over trade, Indias ties with Russia and China are evolving. Lets take a closer look. Jaishankar in Russia, Chinas FM in India EAM S Jaishankar is slated to visit Russia on a two-day trip next week. He will hold talks with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov and a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin could also be in the cards. The Ministers will discuss key issues on our bilateral agenda, as well as key aspects of cooperation within international framework, the Russian Foreign Ministry said, announcing Jaishankars Moscow visit on Wednesday (August 13). This will be the third meeting between Jaishankar and Lavrov in the past few weeks. The duo last met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting in Tianjin on July 15, as well as on the margins of the 17th Brics Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6. During his Moscow visit, the EAM could also co-chair the 26th session of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic, Scientific-Technological and Cultural Cooperation, reported PTI. Indias purchase of Russian crude oil is likely to feature during Jaishankars meetings with Russian leaders. Russias conflict with Ukraine is also expected to be discussed. Before Jaishankars Moscow trip, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will reportedly be in India next week. As per Indian Express sources, Wang will be in New Delhi on August 18 for the Special Representative-level talks with National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India is yet to officially announce the visit of the Chinese foreign minister, which could come as early as August 18. The visit will be keenly watched as it comes three months after Operation Sindoor, when India briefly fought Pakistan. New Delhi said Pakistan used Chinese weapons and drones and Beijing helped Rawalpindi with live intelligence during the military conflict. Wangs trip is aimed at continuing high-level discussions on the India-China border issue, sources told The Hindu. They added that New Delhi will be cautious in improving ties with Beijing, given its all-weather relationship with Pakistan. India continues engagement with Russia despite Trump threats New Delhi has intensified engagement with Russia in recent weeks, even as US President Donald Trump announced additional 25 per cent tariffs on India for buying Russian crude oil. This has taken the total tariffs on Indian goods exported to the US to 50 per cent. Jaishankars Moscow visit will lay the groundwork for President Putins arrival in India for the next Russia-India annual summit expected later this year. This will be his first trip to the South Asian country since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Lavrov could also visit India before Putins trip. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This week, the Russian foreign minister will travel to Alaska with Putin for the high-stakes summit with US President Trump on Friday (August 15). The talks between the two leaders have been welcomed by India, which said the move holds the promise of ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. There are hopes in New Delhi that the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska would help persuade the US president to drop the 25 per cent additional tariffs on Indian goods as a penalty on New Delhi for buying Russian oil. On August 11, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone, underlining the need for a peaceful settlement of the conflict. Amid Trumps steep tariff threats, Modi also held a telephonic conversation with Brazils President Lula Da Silva, whose country is part of Brics the informal group that the US president has targeted. As India continues trade negotiations with the US, it has also carried on its engagement with Russia. Moscow has condemned Trumps tariff action and supported Indias right to choose its trading partners. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Last week, Modi and Putin held a detailed phone conversation, discussing the latest developments on Ukraine and reaffirmed our commitment to further deepen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. This came after NSA Doval visited Russia, where he met Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu and President Putin. In late June, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with his Russian counterpart Andrey Belousov on the sidelines of the gathering of SCO Defence Ministers in Qingdao, China. Thaw in India-China ties Wang Yis visit to India is likely to take place before PM Modi heads to Chinas Tianjin for the SCO summit later this month. It will be the Indian prime ministers first visit to the country since 2018. The SCO summit will be held in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Putin also in attendance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping arrive for a family photo during the BRICS summit in Kazan on October 23, 2024. File Photo/AFP Russia is also part of the SCO grouping, along with India, China, Pakistan and Iran. PM Modi could also hold bilateral talks with both the Chinese and Russian presidents on the sidelines of the summit. The meeting between Modi and Xi will be an opportunity for India to review the situation along the border with China and the bilateral relationship, as per Indian Express. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This is PM Modis first trip to China since the military clashes at Galwan in eastern Ladakh along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in 2020. Last October, India and China completed the process of disengagement along the LAC in eastern Ladakh. Following this, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar visited the country. Wang Yi had come to India in 2022, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Doval and Wang are likely to deliberate on bilateral ties and the situation along the LAC. In recent months, India has enhanced engagement with both Russia and China. This is significant as Beijing has batted for the Russia-India-China trilateral meeting. However, New Delhi has, so far, not agreed. India and China have taken several steps to improve relations. Beijing allowed the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this year, while India has started issuing tourist visas to Chinese nationals since July. In a sign of further easing of tensions, New Delhi and Beijing are mulling resuming direct flights between the two countries. Beijing has also reportedly relaxed restrictions on urea shipments to India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD As per ThePrint report, India and China are also in talks to facilitate the revival of border trade through the Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand), Shipki La Pass (Himachal Pradesh) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim), the Rajya Sabha was told last week. Trade between India and China through these border posts was first disrupted during the Covid-19 pandemic. It was not resumed following a downturn in diplomatic ties due to the border clashes in 2020. With inputs from agencies Three-and-a-half years into the Russia-Ukraine war, Donald Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15. What does this meeting mean for the two leaders and the future of Ukraine? Traditional Russian wooden nesting dolls, Matryoshka dolls, depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump are displayed for sale at a gift shop on the touristic Arbat street in downtown Moscow, days before Putin-Trump meeting in Alaska. AFP On August 15, the worlds eyes will turn to Alaska namely the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, a remote military installation which plays host to some of Americas most fearsome fighter jets. Why? It is here that Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will sit face-to-face for the first time in seven years for talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine. This meeting amounts to one of the biggest gambits of the US presidents second term. Hosting the meeting raises expectations that hell stop the fighting that first broke out in February 2022. Analysts believe that Trump faces traps in sitting down with Putin. Some worry that it could be a golden opportunity for Putin to influence Trumps vision for how to end the war. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For Trump, 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. We take a closer look at this summit the whos, the whys and the whats associated with this meet. Who will be present for Trump-Putin meet in Alaska? Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to meet at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaskas Anchorage on August 15, Friday. Elmendorf-Richardson combines the US air forces Elmendorf base and the US armys Fort Richardson. It is Alaskas largest military base and is home to more than 32,000 people about 10 per cent of Anchorages total population. The area is also significant for Russia: the US purchased Alaska from the Russian Empire 158 years ago. However, missing from this meeting is the country most affected Ukraine itself. Speaking on Volodymyrs absence from the discussions, Trump said earlier, I would say he could go, but hes been to a lot of meetings. Trump did, however, say that Zelenskyy would be the first person he would call afterwards. And following Trumps call with European leaders and Zelenskyy on Wednesday, he said that would look into the possibility of a trilateral Trump, Zelenskyy and Putin. A view of an entrance to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. AFP Why are Trump and Putin meeting now? Even amidst his campaigning for president, Trump had vowed to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. Initially, the US president even expressed support of Russia and critical of US military aid to Ukraine, held off on a meeting while ending the war appeared impossible. He repeatedly expressed his frustration. Then, last week, he moved up the deadline for imposing new sanctions or tariffs unless Putin ended the war. He also raised tariffs on Indian imports to the United States to 50 per cent to penalise it for continued imports of Russian oil. With the sanctions deadline looming, the Russians, according to a New York Times report, requested a summit. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What does Putin want from the meeting? When Putin ordered for the invasion of Ukraine three-and-a-half years ago, he didnt think Kyiv would be able to fend off Russias advances for so long. However, with grit and a whole lot of help from Europe and the US, Zelenskyys troops have held them back. Many experts note that perhaps this would be driving Putins decisions when it comes to his sit-down with Trump on Friday. As Ivor Bennett, Sky News Moscow correspondent said, The only deal I think hell (Putin) be willing to accept at Fridays summit is one that secures Moscows goals. These include territory (full control of the four Ukrainian regions which Russia has already claimed), permanent neutrality for Kyiv and limits on its armed forces. Hell try to convince Trump that such a deal is the quickest path to peace. The only alternative, in Russias eyes, is an outright triumph on the battlefield. Russian President Vladimir Putin doesnt just want victory. He needs it. And many think the Alaska summit will help him. File image/Reuters In fact, even in the past, Putin has said that for a ceasefire of any kind, Ukraine would have to give up 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. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Many others note that the talks on Friday are another stalling tactic for Putin as well as a way to try to improve frayed ties with Washington. He also might seek to discuss issues outside the framework of Ukraine, including economic deals or cooperation in the Arctic. William Taylor, who was charge daffaires at the US Embassy in Ukraine during Trumps first term told NBC News, Putin may try to divert President Trump from Trumps goal of stopping the war and establishing a ceasefire by promising things later. Then, Putin continues to fight and continues to kill Ukrainians. Some observers, however, have dismissed 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 Putins latest gambit to defuse Trumps frustration with him and head off his threat to impose tougher sanctions on Russia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Whats at stake for Trump? This Alaska meeting with Putin is very important for Trump. Experts note his pride is at stake here. Thats because one of Trumps campaign promises was to end the Russia-Ukraine war on the first day in office. However, its taken him 200-plus days to come so far. Michael McFaul, who was US ambassador to Russia in the Obama administration, stated to NBC News, President Trump just by going to a meeting with Putin, who for most of the democratic world is a rogue, imperialist dictator is giving him legitimacy. While US President Donald Trump has played down expectations from the Alaska summit, he has warned Putin of severe consequences if he doesnt adhere to a ceasefire. AFP Theres also his desire for a Nobel Peace prize. He has linked his deserving of the prize to his efforts in Ukraine, among other conflicts. However, his position on the war has been inconsistent. Earlier this year, he seemed to align himself with the Kremlin, limiting military aid to Ukraine for a time and holding a shouting match with Zelenskyy during a notorious Oval Office meeting in February. But as his frustration with Putin grew, he authorised more arms sales intended for Ukraine. He criticised Russias bombardment of Ukrainian cities as both disgraceful and disgusting. And a month ago, he directly criticised Putin. On Wednesday, Trump even said, there will be very severe consequences for Russia if Putin did not agree to halt the war after the meeting. Asked if he believed he could convince Putin to stop targeting Ukrainian civilians, the American president said the two leaders had already discussed that. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ive had a lot of good conversations with him, and then I go home and see a rocket hit a nursing home, or a rocket hit an apartment building and people are laying dead in the streets, Trump said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is hopeful of a ceasefire from the Alaska meeting. However, he has categorically stated that Ukraine would cede no land to Russia. Reuters What does Ukraine hope will happen? Ukraine, which has been kept out of Fridays meeting, is hoping that Trump bats for them. Zelenskyy has repeatedly stated that no land would be ceded by his nation and that no territorial concessions could be a part of a ceasefire. Its left to be seen what comes out of the meeting, but as the US president himself put it earlier, anything could happen. With inputs from agencies Defence Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth made headlines recently when he shared a video on social media about Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC), an archconservative network of Christian congregations, showing its pastors arguing women should not have the right to vote. CREC recently opened a new outpost in the nations capital, Christ Church DC, with Hegseth attending its first Sunday service. Heres what you know about it Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attended the first service of the CREC in Washington. AP Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says hes proud to be part of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, an archconservative network of Christian congregations. Hegseth recently made headlines when he shared a CNN video on social media about CREC, showing its pastors arguing women should not have the right to vote. Pastor Doug Wilson, a CREC co-founder, leads Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, the networks flagship location. Jovial and media-friendly, Wilson is no stranger to stirring controversy with his churchs hard-line theology and its embrace of patriarchy and Christian nationalism. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Wilson on Monday he was grateful Hegseth shared the video. He noted Hegseths post was labeled with Christ Churchs motto: All of Christ for All of Life. He was, in effect, reposting it and saying, Amen, at some level, Wilson said. Hegseth, among President Donald Trumps most controversial Cabinet picks, attends Pilgrim Hill Reformed Fellowship, a CREC member church in a suburb outside Nashville, Tennessee. His pastor, Brooks Potteiger, prayed at a service Hegseth hosted at the Pentagon. CREC recently opened a new outpost in the nations capital, Christ Church DC, with Hegseth attending its first Sunday service. Pentagon chief spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed Hegseths CREC affiliation and told the AP that Hegseth very much appreciates many ofWilsons writings and teachings. Here are other things to know about the church network: What does Wilsons church say about women? Wilsons church and wider denomination practice complementarianism, the patriarchal idea that men and women have different God-given roles. Women within CREC churches cannot hold church leadership positions, and married women are to submit to their husbands. Pastor Doug Wilson stands for a portrait after Sunday services at the new campus for Christ Church and its Logos School, Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson) Wilson told the AP he believes the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote was a bad idea. Still, he said his wife and daughters vote. He would prefer the United States follow his churchs example, which allows heads of households to vote in church elections. Unmarried women qualify as voting members in his church. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ordinarily, the vote is cast by the head of the household, the husband and father, because were patriarchal and not egalitarian, Wilson said. He added that repealing the 19th Amendment is not high on his list of priorities. Hegseths views on women have been in the spotlight, especially after he faced sexual assault allegations, for which no charges were filed. Before his nomination to lead the Defensc Department, Hegseth had questioned women serving in combat roles in the military. Wilson, a Navy veteran who served on submarines, also questions women serving in some military roles. I think we ought to find out the name of the person who suggested that we put women on those submarines and have that man committed, Wilson said. Its like having a playpen that you put 50 cats in and then drop catnip in the middle of it. Whatever happens is going to be ugly. And if you think its going to advance the cause of women and make sailors start treating women less like objects, then you havent been around the block very many times. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What is the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches? Founded in 1998, CREC is a network of more than 130 churches in the United States and around the world. CREC ascribes to a strict version of Reformed theology rooted in the tradition of 16th Century Protestant reformer John Calvin that puts a heavy emphasis on an all-powerful God who has dominion over all of society. Wilson and CREC are also strongly influenced by a 20th Century Reformed movement called Christian Reconstructionism, according to Julie Ingersoll, a religion professor at the University of North Florida who wrote about it in her 2015 book Building Gods Kingdom. She sees that theology reflected in the Wilson slogan Hegseth repeated on social media. A person walks by a house displaying a sign against Christ Church and its founder and pastor Douglas Wilson, Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Moscow, Idaho. AP When he says, All of life, hes referencing the idea that its the job of Christians to exercise dominion over the whole world, Ingersoll said. Since the 1970s, Wilsons ministry and influence have grown to include the Association of Christian Classical Schools and New Saint Andrews College in Moscow, Idaho. The ministry has a robust media presence, including Canon Press, publisher of books like The Case for Christian Nationalism and Its Good to Be a Man: A Handbook for Godly Masculinity. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What is the connection to Christian nationalism? Wilson wants the United States to be a Christian nation. He does not mind being called a Christian nationalist. I am more than happy to work with that label because its a better label than what I usually get called, Wilson said. If I get called a white nationalist or a theo-fascist or a racist bigot, misogynist thug, I cant work with them except to deny them, he said. Im a Christian, and Im a patriot who loves my country. How do I combine those two things? How do they work together? US Christian nationalism is a fusion of American and Christian identity, principles and symbols that typically seeks a privileged place for Christian people and ideas. Wilson contends that early America was Christian, a notion historians dispute. If we succeed, this will be Christian America 2.0, Wilson wrote in 2022. American Christian nationalism involves overlapping movements. Among them are evangelicals who view Trump, a Republican, as a champion, some of whom are influenced by Christian Reconstructionist ideas; a charismatic movement that sees politics as part of a larger spiritual war; and a Catholic postliberal movement envisioning a muscular government promoting traditional morality. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Elijah Mooring, whose family attends Kings Cross, an offshoot church from Christ Church, holds son Gideon, 9 months, while talking to wife Evangeline as they wait for a performance from Pastor Doug Wilson and the Dads Band. AP CREC now has a closer relationship to the upper echelons of government. This has renewed scrutiny of Wilsons other controversial views, including his downplaying of the horrors of Southern slavery in the US. But its also given Wilson a bigger stage. Hegseth and Wilson have spoken approvingly of each other. Wilson said they have only met in person once, when they talked informally after Wilson preached at Hegseths home church in Tennessee this year. Wilson said CRECs new Washington church began as a way to serve church members who relocated to work in the Trump administration. This is the first time weve had connections with as many people in national government as we do now, Wilson said. But this is not an ecclesiastical lobbying effort where were trying to meet important people. Were trying to give some of these people an opportunity to meet with God. As India prepares to celebrate its Independence Day, it is undoubtedly keeping its eye on the meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump in Alaska. But why does India have a stake in the successful outcome of the meeting between Putin and Trump? What do experts say? Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are set to meet in Alaska tomorrow (August 15). And India is watching closely. As India prepares to celebrate its Independence Day, it is undoubtedly keeping its eye on the events that are occurring nearly 10,000 kilometers away in the last Frontier State. But why does India have a stake in the successful outcome of the meeting between Putin and Trump? Lets take a closer look: New Delhis position on the war From the beginning of the Ukraine war in 2022, New Delhi has taken a consistent and pragmatic position the war must end through dialogue and diplomacy. This is a sentiment Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly voiced over the years. Perhaps none more memorably than in October 2022 on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Samarkand. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Modi, meeting Putin, told the Russian president this is not the era of war. I know that todays era is not an era of war, and I have spoken to you on the phone about this, Modi said. Weve spoken to you many times on the phone before on this, that democracy, diplomacy and dialogue these things help the world. In the coming days, we will get the chance to talk about how to move on to the road to peace, I will also get the chance to better understand your viewpoint. Putin at the time responded, I know your position on the conflict in Ukraine, the concerns that you constantly express. We will do everything to stop this as soon as possible. Modi and Indias message was even reflected in the declaration of the Bali G20 Summit in 2022. Modi also conveyed a similar message to Putin during his trip to Russia in July 2024 which came just after a Russian airstrike on a childrens Hospital in Kyiv left over three dozen dead. Modi, addressing Putin as his dear friend, said peace is of utmost importance and a solution to the war in Ukraine cannot be found on the battlefield. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly voiced the sentiment that the war must end via dialogue and diplomacy. I know that war cannot solve problems, solutions and peace talks cant succeed among bombs, guns and bullets. And we need to find a way to peace through dialogue, Modi said at the Kremlin. When innocent children are murdered, one sees them die, the heart pains and that pain is unbearable, he added. He repeated the message when he visited Poland last year for a two-day trip and met Indian diaspora. Modi before the trip said he would share perspectives on a peaceful resolution of the conflict. As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region, Modi said. He repeated this is not an era of war and any conflict should be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue. The Ministry of External Affairs also reiterated this message after news of the Trump-Putin summit emerged. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said on several occasions, This is not an era of war, the MEA said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Opportunity to ease tensions with US The Trump-Putin summit could also ease tensions between India and the United States over the purchase of Russian crude oil. Trump has imposed a 50 per cent tariff on India for its trade relationship with Russia and accused New Delhi of fuelling Russias war in Ukraine. India has hit back calling the levies unfair, unjustified and unreasonable. New Delhi has also pointed out that prior to the war, India bought a fraction of its crude from Moscow and that it began doing so with US encouragement, which also kept the price of crude under control for the world. It also pointed to the hypocrisy of the United States and Europe continuing to trade with Russia. It has said it has placed the national interest above all else and will continue to do so. This was backed up by the Kremlin with spokesman Dmitry Peskov saying, Sovereign countries should have and do have the right to choose their own trading partners. Trump has also ruled out further trade talks with India until the crude oil issue is resolved. The development came in the backdrop of India and the United States trying to negotiate a trade deal. The United States has been pushing hard to for India to open up its sensitive dairy and agricultural sector. Senior US officials have said that Trump and the entire trade team are frustrated by New Delhis insistence of a red line on agriculture. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A Russian crude oil tanker transits the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Reuters Indias interest in a breakthrough in Alaska is clear. If Trump and Putin agreed to a ceasefire, the US-led West may roll back some sanctions on Russia. This in turn will help India, which is an important trading partner of Russia, to continue purchasing Russian oil. India has saved billions over the past few years as it buys crude oil from Russia, which has been placed under a cap and not sanctioned by the West. Experts have said that Indias crude oil bill could rise between $1.5 billion and $12 billion in the coming years if it stops buying Russian crude. They have warned that doing so would be logistically daunting, economically painful and geopolitically fraught. The pivot away from Russia, if forced, will be costly, complex and politically fraught, data firm Kpler wrote. Trade deal negotiations could restart It will also relieve some pressure off Trump himself, who has seemingly grown frustrated with Putin in recent months. Trump came to office vowing to end the war within 24 hours. We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth, Trump said in July. Were not happy with Putin. Im not happy with Putin. I can tell you that much right now, because hes killing a lot of people. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump can tout any breakthrough in Alaska with Putin as a victory. He can roll back tariffs on India and allow the trade deal negotiations to restart. US President Donald Trump and some of his officials from the administration have been pressuring India to forego its oil trade with Russia. File image/Reuters 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. Bessent has said that the Trump administration hopes to conclude the trade negotiations by the end of October. Modi, in his first response to Trumps move, has vowed never to compromise on the interests of Indias farmers, even if it meant paying a heavy political price. 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. Keeping options open, Russia relationship A ceasefire or a peace deal in Alaska would allow India to keep its options wide open when it comes to balancing its global affairs. New Delhi has remained neutral on the Russia-Ukraine war at international forums such as the United Nations despite pressures from the US-led West. New Delhi has done so because it has friends on both sides of the aisle. India has also volunteered to act as a bridge, if possible, between Russia and Ukraine. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India as a developing power also needs to ensure friendly relations with major powers like the United States, the European Union, China. However, it cannot sacrifice its relationship with Russia, which goes back decades, to do so. India is reliant on Russia for a lot more than oil. In fact much of Indias military hardware still comes from Russia. The S-400 air defence system. Reuters As Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has written, India was the worlds second largest arms importer in 202024 with an 8.3 per cent share of global imports. Indian arms imports decreased by 9.3 per cent between 201519 and 202024, at least partly due to Indias increasing ability to design and produce its own weapons. Russia still comprises over a third of Indias arm imports. Though India is buying more from Western suppliers particularly France, Israel and the United States, New Delhi possibly replacing Moscow a as a major arms supplier remains years away at best. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This is a testament to the long and enduring relationship with Moscow going back to the 1960s when the United States was far more predisposed towards Pakistan. What do experts say? They say many in India remain a supporter of Russia and with good reason. Many Indians still find Russia today, because of the history, a reliable partner, Harsh V Pant of the Observer Research Foundation told The Times of India. Many in India believe that America has always been more favourably disposed towards Pakistan. Indian diplomats such as Pankaj Saran and DB Venkatesh Varma said that the summit could be defining and potentially transformative. It is a defining and potentially transformative summit for the world, specially for India. Our ties with both countries are integral to the success of our national development and security goals. India should extend its full support to the summit, Saran said. The Alaska summit could prove to be a turning point at the global level and India has a vital interest in its success, Verma added. Wild rabbits in South Dakota and Colorado have developed horn-like growths and mouth tentacles. These bunnies, now being called Frankensteins rabbits online, are infected with a virus called Shope papillomavirus (SPV), a relative of human papillomavirus (HPV). Are they a threat to humans and other animals? Fortunately, the rabbits in Americas Midwest havent turned into zombies. The strange-looking growths spotted on them are caused by Shope papillomavirus, also called cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV). Image courtesy: X Wild rabbits in the US states of South Dakota and Colorado have been turning heads, and not in a cute, cuddly way. Some have been spotted with strange horn or tentacle-like growths sprouting from their heads, leaving residents unsettled and social media buzzing. Photos of these so-called zombie bunnies have gone viral on social media, with many expressing shock and making theories. Its like a Resident Evil version of a rabbit, but in real life, one person remarked. Another wrote, This is how the zombie virus starts. Over on YouTube, a shocked commenter posted, Weve got freaking zombie rabbits now?! STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While the sight might seem like a scene from a horror movie, experts say theres a real virus behind these eerie growths, and its spreading fast among the local rabbit population. The unsettling question for many is whether this disease could affect humans or even pets. Heres whats actually going on. What is the SPV virus? Fortunately, the rabbits in Americas Midwest havent turned into zombies. The strange-looking growths spotted on them are caused by Shope papillomavirus, also called cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV). Cottontail Rabbit. Image courtesy: Wikimedia Commons The virus was first identified in the 1930s by researcher Richard Shope, who noticed wild cottontail rabbits developing odd growths on their heads and faces. These protrusions, often described as horns or tentacles, are actually tumours. SPV is a DNA virus related to the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause warts or, in some cases, certain cancers in humans. In recent weeks, people in Fort Collins have been calling wildlife officials after spotting rabbits with these unusual growths. But such cases arent rare, says Kara Van Hoose, a spokesperson for the wildlife agency, telling Sky News that theyve been around for a while. The SPV virus causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to the formation of wart-like tumours to form on an infected rabbits head, face, and around its mouth. Image courtesy: Iowa Department of Natural Resources According to the University of Missouri, the disease is most common in the US Midwest and tends to be more visible during summer. This is when fleas and mosquitoes, the main carriers of the virus, are at their peak. Once inside, the virus causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to the formation of wart-like tumours to form on an infected rabbits head, face, and around its mouth. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Can the SPV virus infect humans and pets? Despite their unsettling appearance, experts say these infected rabbits dont pose a threat to people or their pets. Colorado Parks & Wildlife explains that the Shope virus is not contagious to humans, dogs, or cats. The virus is species-specific, meaning it only affects rabbits and cannot jump to humans, dogs, cats, or most other animals. That said, domestic rabbits tend to get hit harder than wild ones. In pet bunnies, the growths can sometimes turn into squamous cell carcinoma, a dangerous skin cancer. A new nightmare unlocked! I just read about this freaky animal fact and thought Id share, so Im not the only one having nightmares about rabbit zombies! Rabbits with what look like creepy tentacles sprouting from their heads and mouths. Disturbing, a little sad, pic.twitter.com/1lbLTgdDL8 Ash (@TheInspectorAsh) August 12, 2025 That said, wildlife and public health officials still advise against touching or handling visibly sick or infected wild animals. While the Shope virus itself isnt dangerous to people or pets, its always safest to keep your distance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What about the infected bunnies? The Shope papillomavirus doesnt usually kill rabbits outright, but it can still put their lives at risk in other ways. Big growths near the eyes can block vision, making it harder to spot predators. Tumours around the mouth or nose can make eating and breathing difficult, leading to starvation or breathing problems. Infected rabbits also tend to slow down, making them easy targets for predators. Some rabbits manage to fight off the infection, with the growths shrinking or disappearing over time. Others arent so lucky, suffering from worsening tumours that never heal. In domestic rabbits, vets can surgically remove the growths before they turn cancerous, but theres no known cure for the virus. With input from agencies A cloudburst has triggered flash flood in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwars Chositi area. Casualties are feared in the area. The damaged bridge in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar's Chositi area from cloudburst-triggered flash flood. (Photo: CNN-News 18) A cloudburst on Thursday triggered flash flood in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwars Chositi area. Several casualties are feared. A flash flood has occurred at Chashoti area in Kishtwar, which is the starting point of the Machail Mata Yatra. Rescue Operations have been started, Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma told ANI. The CNN-News 18 has reported that at least 20 people are feared dead at the moment and the toll could rise. The casualties are feared as the flash flood washed away a community kitchen. However, there has not been any formal confirmation of casualties. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Additionally, around 30 people have been admitted to the district hospital with injuries. Separately, Union minister Jitender Singh said that that the cloud burst could result in substantial casualty. State media shared visuals from the area that showed water gushing downhill from what appeared to be a broken road. Vehicles were also seen stranded in the video. Cloudburst hits Chositi, #Kishtwar. Administration swings into action; rescue team heads to site. Union Minister @DrJitendraSingh speaks to DC Pankaj Kumar Sharma & LoP @Sunil_SharmaBJP , says damage assessment, rescue & medical aid underway; all help to be provided.@dckishtwar pic.twitter.com/v7ajZyzWyG Akashvani News Jammu (@radionews_jammu) August 14, 2025 The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said that two teams have been deployed to Kishtwar for rescue and relief work. Separately, the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of J&K said, Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF and SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The news is grim: Omar Abdullah on Kishtwar flash flood J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the news from Kishtwar was grim. Abdullah said that he had spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shad and briefed him about the situation. He said that all possible help was being dispatched to Kishtwar from within and outside of the union territory. I just spoke to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah Sahab to brief him about the developing situation in Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim and accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving, said Omar on X. I just spoke to the Union Home Minister @AmitShah Sb to brief him about the developing situation in Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) August 14, 2025 Alert issued for heavy rainfall across J&K The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued an alert for moderate to heavy rainfall with thunder, lightning, and gusty winds across many parts of J&K over the next four to six hours. The affected areas will be in Kupwara, Baramulla, Bandipora, Srinagar, Ganderbal, hilly regions of Budgam, as well as parts of Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Udhampur, Jammu, Doda, and Kishtwar, the forecast said. The QazigundBanihalRamban highway axis may also experience intense rainfall for short periods and there is a possibility of cloudburst incidents, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, particularly in vulnerable and hilly areas, according to the forecast. The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued the following helpline numbers: A regular spot check by the DGCA revealed that AIs Bangalore-London flights on May 16 and 17 exceeded the stipulated time of a maximum of 10 hours under Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section 7, Series J, Part III An Air India Airbus A321 aircraft takes off at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, India, on June 17, 2025. Reuters File The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued a warning to Air India over violations of flight time regulations, advising the airline to exercise the highest level of caution in adhering to aviation safety rules. A regular spot check by the DGCA revealed that AIs Bangalore-London flights on May 16 and 17 exceeded the stipulated time of a maximum of 10 hours under Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section 7, Series J, Part III. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 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 warning letter issued by DGCA stated. The flight regulator said that the airline misused flight timing rules given to pilots under special circumstances after the closure of the Pakistani airspace on April 24, which granted Air India and other flights to carry out flight operations beyond the flight duty time limitation (FDTL) norms. However, citing the exemption that allowed extended flying hours for pilots, Air India reduced the number of cockpit crew from three to two on two BengaluruLondon flights that did not enter Pakistani airspace and were therefore not covered by the exemption. The aviation regulator, reportedly angered by the move, reprimanded Air India for what a senior official described as oversmartness. The exemption to Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL) ended on June 12, the same day AI 171 crashed. The aviation regulator also pointed out that the airlines Accountable Manager did not ensure adherence to critical operational requirements outlined in Annexure III of the Civil Aviation Requirements (CARs). Based on the above-mentioned complaints, the DGCA issued a Show Cause Notice to Air India on June 20. 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, it said in a letter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 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," the letter further stated. Meanwhile, an Air India spokesperson said, Air India receives 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. International military aviation analyst and historian Tom Cooper backed Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singhs recent assertion that India shot down five Pakistani air force jets during Operation Sindoor. While Pakistan continues to deny the claims, Tom Cooper, a renowned Austria-based aerial warfare expert, has said that what ACM Singh noted was just a confirmation of something that was more or less known since May. Earlier this week, Singh maintained that Indias S-400 systems struck at least five Pakistani jets and one big airborne early warning aircraft. Pakistan denied Singhs claim. However, during an interview with ANI, Cooper noted that Indian firepower remained dominated during the four-day military escalation between India and Pakistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We have seen evidence of not only five but even more Pakistani aircraft being shot down. We have also seen evidence for even more Pakistani aircraft being destroyed on the ground. But there was no official confirmation from the IAF, not even from the government of India. Therefore, this is a nice confirmation for something that was assessed already back in May, Cooper said in an interview with ANI. A world record was made Cooper identified the Pakistani early warning and control aircraft as a Saab 2000. The Austrian aviation expert went on to endorse Singhs claim that the successful strike from a range of 300 km was a world record. It is the longest range confirmed shoot-down by a surface-to-air missile. This is a historic achievement, he said, lauding the extraordinary feat of the IAF, mentioning that the other instance of such an attack was recorded in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where the weapon system was shot down at a distance of 200 km. This is a significant fact because we have seen IAF deploying its S-400 surface-to-air missile system very close to the border to Pakistan, so close that it was actually firing missiles from within the range of Pakistani armys artillery, which meant if it would stay, its presence of the firing unit in question would have been detected by Pakistanis too early, Pakistanis could have shelled the area in question, hit and destroyed this firing unit. So it was quite a risky operation, actually, he told ANI. It is pertinent to note that Tom Cooper is not the only expert to endorse Singhs assessment. Earlier, well-known military strategist John Spencer maintained that Operation Sindoor marked Indias decisive victory. With inputs from ANI. The Partition of India in 1947 was a painful turning point in history that forced millions to flee their homes. Speaking to Firstposts Bhanu Pratap, many shared haunting memories of leaving everything behind with the fragile hope of starting anew from the dark shadow. Refugees crowd onto a train as they try to flee India near New Delhi in September 1947. Some 15 million people crossed new borders during the violent partition of British-ruled India. At times, mobs targeted and killed passengers travelling in either direction; the trains carrying their corpses became known as "ghost trains." File Image/AP The Partition of India was far more complex than the mere drawing of borders it shattered homes, tore families apart, and scarred millions for life. Arguably the largest displacement of humans in modern times, the Partition that brought Independence to India as well as Pakistan forced millions to leave behind everything familiar and step into the unknown with fear and hope intertwined. Speaking to Firstpost, many families bravely recounted their horrors and shared deeply personal memories. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During the Partition of India in 1947, an estimated 10 to 15 million people were uprooted and forced to migrate across the hastily drawn borders, marking one of the largest mass migrations in human history. The borders, hurriedly drawn by British lawyer Radcliffe, left scores of lives irreversibly altered. Bogies full of dead bodies terrible times CL Madaan, an 83-year-old resident of Delhis Mukherjee Nagar, recalled the horrors of Partition to Firstpost, When Partition happened, I was just 3 or 4 years old. I dont remember everything, but some glimpses of those horrific times have stayed with me. I remember my parents hurriedly carrying our belongings as we left our native village near Rawalpindi. We boarded a train, and when it reached Amritsar, we got down, took a lorry, and eventually reached Delhi. He described the difficult conditions that followed, The government provided us with a small tent in a place called Shanti Nagar. My siblings, parents, and I lived in that tiny tent. We stayed in that camp for 30 years until the government allotted us a 160-gaz plot here in Mukherjee Nagar. CL Madaan, a retired government employee, speaking to Firstposts Bhanu Pratap. We all bore the pain of losing our homes, our villages, and some even lost loved ones, he said to Firstpost. But we adapted to our new life here. Despite the hardships, we lived together happily, without divisions among us. Meher Chand, born in 1936 and a resident of North Delhi, said his family migrated from Dera Ghazi Khan. When we arrived here, trains kept coming loaded with entire bogies full of dead bodies from the violence back there. I remember military troops, including Gorkhas, were assigned to protect us and escort us safely to Hindustan when we left Dera Ghazi Khan. It was a terrible time. We had to leave the city, which was on the frontier, and it was a long journey. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Recalling the horrors of Partition, Chand shared, A father and his son who lived next door went to Dera Ghazi Khan to buy something. They were killed there, and their families were not even able to see their bodies. This terrorised the few of us who remained. Maher Chand, a ex-postman, now lives a retired life in North Delhi. Image: FP A train to Patiala and then to dirty, diseased-filled shelters A shopkeeper, who wished to remain anonymous, told Firstpost that his grandfather and grandmother were both killed during Partition violence in Pakistan. His father somehow survived and escaped their native village, Mulhal Mughlan near Chakwal, rebuilding his life in Delhi, where the shopkeeper was later born. Ninety-year-old Arjan Singh, who was just 11 when he migrated from Dera Ismail Khan, still vividly remembers the Partition. I am actually a Sardar. When we migrated, Hindus and Sikhs travelled together. At first, we walked with the group. I remember taking a boat to cross a large river. After that, we reached a railway station, I cant recall which city, and then boarded a train to Patiala. People watch the Heritage run of an Indian Railway coach hauled by a 1947 model steam locomotive engine. AFP) Singh described those times as extremely difficult. In search of a better life, they first went to Jhansi, then Bareilly, feeling confused and suffering, before finally settling in Delhi. In Delhi, the government later allotted us a barrack to live in. It was very small, overcrowded, and the area was dirty, with diseases spreading all around. Those were really tough times. We lived in those barracks for 25 to 26 years, he said to Firspost, adding that his family was later allotted an 80-gaz plot in Indra Vihar in North Delhi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The migration was accompanied by brutal communal violence, leading to the deaths of an estimated 200,000 to 2 million people. Many were killed in riots, massacres, and attacks along migration routes, while countless others suffered abductions and other atrocities during this tragic upheaval. This photo taken in August 1947 shows Indian soldiers walking through the debris of a building in the Chowk Bijli Wala area of Amristar during unrest following the Partition of India and Pakistan. (Photo by AFP) The Partition of India remains a dark chapter in history, a profound human tragedy marked by massive migration and unimaginable suffering, that must be remembered and passed on to future generations. In 1947, the world looked at us with doubt, today they look at us with hope. India was non-aligned before it was cool. Now we are multi-aligned because it is wise. Heres the story of Indian diplomacy since Independence For Indians, August 15, is not merely a date in the calendar, but a sacred moment in history. On this day, the country finally broke free from the shackles of centuries of foreign domination. Independence meant the right to make our own decisions, the right to make our own mistakes and the freedom to chart a unique destiny. Yet, while Indias citizens celebrated their liberation with hope and pride, the outside world regarded this new republic with uncertainty. Many foreign observers viewed the moment with suspicion rather than admiration. India emerged from colonialism with a fractured economy, a population still reeling from social wounds and a geography altered by the trauma of Partition. Sceptics openly wondered whether this fragile, newly independent nation could survivelet alone thrivein the harsh realities of the global order. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the decades that followed, the answer to those doubts gradually became clear: India would survive, and in time, it would thrive. But the journey was neither simple nor swift. The new republic had to adjust its economic policies, rethink approaches to social justice and rebuild systems weakened by centuries of exploitation. Yet in one sphere, India displayed remarkable agility from the very beginningdiplomacy. On the world stage, the nation walked forward with both purpose and principles. Foreign policy became a platform where India could assert its identity, ideals and aspirations without the burden of colonial shadows. Cold War arrives at Indias doorstep Barely had the ink dried on the independence documents when a new geopolitical reality came knockingthe Cold War. The 20th centurys defining ideological struggle was beginning to reshape the global scenario dividing it into two opposing blocs: US-led capitalist bloc Soviet-led communist bloc Across continents, governments were picking sides. Yet Indias response was clear and confident. Thanks for the invitation, but well stay out of it. This decision birthed what would become one of the cornerstones of Indian diplomacythe Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Roots of non-alignment The seeds of non-alignment had been planted even before independence. In March 1947, Jawaharlal Nehru hosted the Asian Relations Conference in New Delhi. It brought together representatives from 28 Asian countries, united by a vision of post-colonial solidarity. The conference sought to foster continental unity and resist the pull of external power blocs. After becoming prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru built on this foundation. Alongside unity, he added another strategic pillarneutrality. He envisioned an Asia that stayed clear of Cold War entanglements. This vision gained momentum at the Bandung Conference in 1955, held in Indonesia. This time, it was not just AsiaAfrican nations also joined the effort. Twenty-nine countries, representing more than half of the worlds population, participated. Such gatherings solidified the conceptual framework that would become the Non-Aligned Movement. Criticism and idealism From the beginning, NAM faced criticism. Detractors labelled it fence-sitting or even isolationist. But Indias leadership held firmthey sought to be players, not pawns in the Cold War chess game. In the 1950s, Indias diplomacy was rooted in principles rather than cold strategic calculations. It tried to broker peace during the Korean War, advocated for the global recognition of Communist China and spoke out against the tripartite aggression on Egypt during the Suez Crisis. These actions earned India moral prestige and the image of a voice of justice. But there was a weaknesspragmatism was often missing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The 1960s: A decade of reality checks The 1960s brought sharp lessons. Indias neighborhood policy collapsed when two neighborsChina in 1962 and Pakistan in 1965attacked. The war with China ended in humiliation; the war with Pakistan ended in victory. But both conflicts made it clear: principles could earn praise, but they could not guarantee protection. Economically, the country was still struggling under the weight of colonial damage. The economy had been de-industrialised, agriculture was in poor shape and the nation relied on importing 1011 million tonnes of wheat annually. Between 1955 and 1965, India reached the peak of its dependence on foreign aidmillions of dollars for health programmes, rural education and family planning flowed into the country. This dependence weakened the non-alignment stance. During the Vietnam War, India criticised US actions but still needed American aid. Washington leveraged this, pressuring New Delhi to tone down its opposition. The decade forced Indian diplomacy to face an uncomfortable truth: ideals alone could not drive foreign policy. The 1970s: Realism arrives The 1970s marked a strategic shift toward realism. Domestically, the Green Revolution transformed agriculture. By the end of the decade, India was self-sufficient in food grains, ending the era of dependence on foreign food aid. On the diplomatic front, a landmark move came in 1971 with the signing of the Treaty of Friendship with the Soviet Union. This was no mere symbolic gestureit was a calculated response to geopolitical turbulence. The US was drawing closer to China and Pakistans crackdown on ethnic Bengalis in East Pakistan had triggered a massive refugee influx into India. Neutrality could not resolve these crises any longer and realism was the pragmatic way forward. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Soviet alliance paid off. In the 1971 war, it provided the strategic backing that helped India secure victory and pave the way for the creation of Bangladesh. Throughout the decade, Indo-Soviet ties flourishedtrade nearly doubled from $460 million in 1973 to $830 million in 1975, weapon sales expanded and cooperation reached space exploration with the launch of Indias first satellite in 1975 on a Soviet rocket. The 1980s: Regional power and missteps The 1980s began with India consolidating its leadership in South Asia. In 1985, it played a key role in founding Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), intended to promote unity much like Asean did in Southeast Asia. But the decade also saw a costly misstep. In Sri Lanka, a brutal civil war between the government and Tamil separatists intensified. Given the shared ethnic ties between Tamils in Sri Lanka and millions in southern India, New Delhi intervened. The Indo-Sri Lankan Accord of 1987 led to the deployment of the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF). Originally tasked with maintaining peace, the IPKF soon became embroiled in direct combat with Tamil separatists. By 1990, India withdrew, marking one of its most significant diplomatic blunders. Meanwhile, global dynamics were shifting. Ties with China warmed, the Cold War neared its end, and the Soviet Union became mired in Afghanistan. Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhis visits to the US in 1985 and China in 1988 prepared the ground for a post-Cold War diplomatic strategy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The 1990s: Liberalisation and new partnerships The 1990s opened a new chapter for India, shaped by both economic and diplomatic imperatives. The 1991 economic reforms sought to integrate India into the global economy, necessitating broader international engagement. The collapse of the Soviet Union removed a key strategic partner, prompting India to diversify its relationships. In 1992, India launched the Look East Policy, becoming a dialogue partner with Asean to tap into the rapidly growing economies of Southeast Asia, including the so-called Asian Tigers. That same year, India publicly established diplomatic ties with Israel, ending decades of quiet cooperation. However, the decades progress was disrupted in 1998 when India conducted nuclear tests in Rajasthan. The US responded with sanctions and Pakistan soon carried out its own tests pushing the region to dangerous levels of tension. The 2000s: Strategic reset and multilateral engagement Entering the 2000s, India faced a precarious situationtwo nuclear-armed neighbours, no superpower ally and a sanctioned economy. Diplomacy in this era focussed on two main goals: resetting ties with the US and deepening participation in multilateral forums. By 2001, most sanctions were lifted. The shared trauma of terrorismAmericas 9/11 and Indias 26/11brought the two countries closer. This partnership advanced a civilian nuclear deal while also preserving the legacy of non-alignment by engaging with other global players. In 2006, the foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India and China met in New York, laying the foundation for Brics. The groups first official summit took place in 2009. By the end of the decade, Indias economy was booming and its diplomacy was increasingly diversified. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The 2010s: Expanding influence The 2010s proved that India could seize global opportunities. Strategic partnerships were signed with 14 countries, including Israel, UAE, Japan, South Korea, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. At the same time, rivalry with China deepened. Under President Xi Jinping, China pursued regional dominance, leading to the 2017 Doklam standoff, where Indian and Chinese troops faced off for more than 70 days. Today, Indias foreign policy vision is to be a Vishwabandhua friend to all. The country has shifted from non-alignment to multi-alignment. It participates in the Quad with the US, remains a founding Brics member alongside China, attends G7 summits and leads the Global South. India can build ports in Iran, buy weapons from Israel, acquire warships from Russia and still visit Ukraine to call for peace. This new approachbe in every room, but stay in your cornermarks a significant shift from earlier decades. Economic strength as diplomatic backbone One crucial factor behind this transformation is reduced foreign dependence. In the 20th century, Indias independent foreign policy was constrained by economic weakness. Today, the reverse is true. India no longer relies on foreign aid; instead, it is a global donor. Since 2000, it has provided over $48 billion in assistance to 65 countries. During the Covid-19 pandemic, India acted as the pharmacy of the world, sending vaccines to 160 countries. In its neighbourhood, it is the first responder to disastersfrom earthquakes to tsunamis to pirate attacks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From doubt to hope In 1947, the world viewed India with scepticism. Today, it looks toward India with hope. The nation was non-aligned before it was fashionable, now it is multi-aligned because it is wise. The chapters yet to be written in Indias diplomatic history promise to be as riveting as the story so far. We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points namely Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh, and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal India on Thursday confirmed that it continues to engage with the Chinese side to resume border trade through all the designated trade points. Addressing the weekly briefing on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points namely Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh, and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD #WATCH | Delhi | On India-China border trade, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "...We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points- namely Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in pic.twitter.com/gGW4JJErVY ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 He added that any developments on the matter would be shared in due course. The trading points were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that also saw a sharp downturn in India-China relations following deadly clashes in Galwan, which left 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese troops dead. For over three decades, India and China had traded locally produced goods such as spices, carpets, wooden furniture, cattle fodder, pottery, medicinal plants, electric items, and wool through three designated points along their 3,488-kilometer (2,167-mile) disputed Himalayan border. The trade value is relatively small, estimated at just $3.16 million in 201718, according to the most recent government data available. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Earlier today, Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Beijing is willing to step up communication and coordination with India on border trade. Border trade between China and India has long played an important role in improving lives of the two countries border residents, Bloomberg quoted the ministry as saying. The planned resumption of border trade signals a gradual thaw in India-China ties, as both sides continue steps to ease tensions. China and India are also set to resume direct flights next month and Beijing has relaxed some curbs on fertilizer exports to India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit China later this month for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit his first trip there in seven years with a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping likely on the sidelines. The warming of ties comes as New Delhis relations with Washington strain, following a steep 50% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on Indian exports significantly higher than those on regional peers. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies At least 38 people were killed on Thursday when a powerful cloudburst sent torrents of rainwater crashing into a mountain village in Jammu and Kashmir. The disaster struck Kishtwar district, where hours of intense rain damaged roads already weakened by earlier storms. The district commissioner, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, said more bodies could still be discovered. So far, 120 people have been injured and 200 others are missing. Residents described seeing victims brought to the nearest hospital on stretchers, with crowds gathering outside to look for relatives. The area is more than 200 kilometres from Srinagar, and difficult terrain along with weather damage is expected to slow rescue efforts. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called the situation grim, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged that every possible assistance will be provided. It is the second deadly flooding event in India this month. On 5 August, the Himalayan town of Dharali in Uttarakhand was buried in mud after floods, with a likely death toll of more than 70. Such disasters are common during the JuneSeptember monsoon season, but scientists warn that climate change and poorly planned development in fragile mountain zones are making floods and landslides more frequent and more destructive. The UNs World Meteorological Organization has described increasingly severe floods and droughts as a warning sign of the water cycle becoming more volatile in a warming world. Kishtwar cloudburst LIVE updates: Death toll continues mounting as search, rescue, and relief ops continue Kishtwar cloudburst LIVE updates: The annual pilgrimage to the Machail Mata shrine was suspended following the tragedy as the authorities marshalled all resources for rescue operations at Chositi, officials informed. Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were dispatched from Udhampur to Kishtwar. President Murmu remembered the horrors of 1947 partition and said that countrymen should never forget the pain inflicted due to it, adding that terrible violence was witnessed in the course of events and that the nation pays tributes to the victims of the follies of history. President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday conveyed her warmest greetings to the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day. It is a matter of pride for all of us that Independence Day and Republic Day are celebrated by every Indian with great enthusiasm. These are days that especially remind us of our being proud Indians, she said at the start of her address. Recalling the horrors of the 1947 partition, the President urged citizens never to forget the suffering it caused. She noted that the events were marked by terrible violence and stressed that the nation continues to pay tribute to the victims of those tragic chapters in history. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Addressing the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, President Murmu paid tributes to the victims of the partition on the occasion of Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas (Partition Horrors Remembrance Day). As we look back on the past, we must not forget the pain inflicted by the Partition of the country. Today we observed Vibhajan Vibhishika Smriti Diwas. Terrible violence was witnessed, and millions were forced to relocate due to Partition. Today, we pay tributes to the victims of the follies of history, President Murmu said. President Murmu termed terror attack on innocent citizens in Pahalgam as cowardly and utterly inhuman. She further said that Operation Sindoor, Indias response to Pahalgam attack, was in a decisive manner and with steely resolve. Operation Sindoor showed that our armed forces are prepared to meet any eventuality when it comes to guarding nation, President Murmu said. On August 14, India observes Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the countrys partition in 1947. With inputs from agencies STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India on Thursday said that the international Court of Arbitration lacks any legal authority to make pronouncements on the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan as New Delhi has never recognised the legitimacy of the court India on Thursday said that the international Court of Arbitration lacks any legal authority to make pronouncements on the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan as New Delhi has never recognised the legitimacy of the court. A ruling by the Court of Arbitration last week sided with Pakistan, stating that India must comply with the Indus Waters Treaty when designing new hydroelectric power projects on rivers flowing westward into Pakistan. #WATCH | Delhi | On a question by ANI regarding the award by the Court of Arbitration under the Indus Water Treaty, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements pic.twitter.com/cx8zdrAtYN ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements are therefore without jurisdiction, devoid of legal standing, and have no bearing on Indias rights of utilisation of waters, said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. India also categorically rejects Pakistans selective and misleading references to the so-called award. As reiterated in our press release of 27 June 2025, the Indus Waters Treaty stands in abeyance by a sovereign decision of the Government of India, taken in response to Pakistans continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism, including the barbaric Pahalgam attack, added Jaiswal. Pakistan had welcomed the ruling by the Court of Arbitration on the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), claiming it validates its stance on Indias hydroelectric projects on the Western Rivers. The court reportedly said India must ensure unrestricted water flow to Pakistan, as per treaty terms. India, however, rejects the courts legitimacy, citing its preference for the neutral expert mechanism. New Delhi never accepted the World Banks 2022 decision to activate both dispute resolution paths simultaneously, calling it legally flawed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pakistan urged India to resume IWT implementation, but India maintains the treaty remains in abeyance until Pakistan acts against cross-border terrorism. With inputs from agencies Whether the elections will be free and fair largely depends on the Yunus administrations true intentions, which have already been called into question Finally, the chief advisor of the interim government of Bangladesh, Mohammad Yunus, has declared that the pending general elections will be held in February next year, although exact dates are yet to be finalised. With this announcement, the Yunus administrations most challenging task has begunthe task for which it was brought to power last year: conducting a free and fair election and handing power to an elected government. This announcement puts an end to the uncertainty related to the holding of the general polls. Importantly, this announcement comes at the one-year mark since the fall of Sheikh Hasinas regime, as the country debates its progress since then. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A welcome decision The decision of the interim government to hold elections, after several months of delaying, is a welcome step. This decision is now likely to set the political parties into action. Democracy is expected to get a breath of fresh air. Already, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), one of the countrys largest parties, has welcomed the election schedule. Jatiya Party and some of the Left parties, although marginal in the countrys politics, have also welcomed the election schedule. On the other hand, the newly formed National Citizens Party (NCP), often referred to as the Kings party, owing to its backdoor relations with the Yunus administration, has no problem with the timing of the elections but has expressed concern over free and fair elections. The party is also concerned with electoral reforms and ensuring justice for those killed in the uprising movement last year against the then Hasina government. The Islamic party, Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB), has also expressed concern regarding political reforms. Will the Yunus administration be neutral? Whether the elections will be free and fair will depend mostly on the Yunus administrations true intentions. There have been questions over those intentions. Students Against Discrimination (SAD), the student group that led the uprising against the Hasina government, was behind the installation of Yunus as the chief advisor, and the same group was behind the formation of NCP. The Yunus government has been accused of being soft on the new party. The interim governments decision to ban Awami League (AL), one of the countrys major parties, in May came after pressure from the NCP. That is why the party is, rightly, called the Kings party. This also casts aspersions on the Yunus governments neutrality. It is true that AL under Sheikh Hasina made many mistakes. The most significant was turning the country into an authoritarian one. But banning AL, which has at least a vote share of 30 per cent, isnt the proper solution. Despite its flaws and misrule, the party has the right to contest elections. The right to scrutiny of AL rests with the voters. If it is banned, then how will it face the scrutiny of the voters? This action definitely doesnt strengthen democracy. The general secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, Ruhin Hussain Prince, who is also the coordinator of the Left Democratic Alliancea bloc combining six left-leaning partieshas been clear that the country needs a neutral administration to oversee the elections, as he believes that the Yunus administration has lost neutrality. This shows that a section within the country now sees the Yunus administration, which was formed to be a non-political and neutral body, through a political lens. The activities of the Yunus administration confirm this perception. The July Declaration, unveiled by Yunus himself on August 5, shows that the administration has yet to overcome its obsession with Sheikh Hasina and her 15 years in power. The interim government seems too occupied with the past and is trying to rewrite the countrys history by trying to omit the contributions of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the role of his party, AL, in the struggle for independence, along with the contributions made by its neighbour, India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With allegations of declining law and order due to a rise in mob violence and attacks on religious minorities, particularly Hindus, becoming the norm, and with increasing cases of suppression of journalists, the interim government has been under scrutiny for failing to protect its own people and maintaining law and order. But the Yunus-led interim government, instead of focusing on its task, is busy rewriting history through the distortion of facts. And this raises doubts over its true intentions to hold free and fair elections. Not an easy sail The country has a history of manipulated elections, and such elections have taken place not only under AL rule, as the Yunus-led administration wants the public to believe. These manipulated elections have been occurring since the first elections of independent Bangladesh in 1973 under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This continued under military leaders Zia-ur-Rahman, founder of BNP, and Hussain Muhammad Ershad, the founder of Jatiya Party, in the 1970s and 1980s. The first free and fair election held in the country was in 1991, but the ghost of manipulated elections returned through the February 1996 elections held under the Khaleda Zia-led BNP government. The manipulated election was overturned later that year by a free and fair election following public pressure. During 2006-2008, there were again attempts to take the country towards authoritarianism. But the elections of 2008 temporarily halted that process. The process of conducting free and fair elections itself is a big task in Bangladesh. And with the Yunus-led administration, whose neutrality is being doubted, at the helm, doubts do remain. Bangladesh awaits a free and fair election to strengthen its path towards democracy. By announcing elections next February, Yunus has, for now, set the country on the path to begin the democratic process, but the future remains to be seen. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The writer is a political commentator. He tweets @SagarneelSinha. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. To aficionados of diplomacy, international summits are the ultimate attraction. They are somewhat like Indian weddings. They usually appear in three different phases: the prelude is marked by speculation, curtain raisers in the media, and elaborate preparations by diplomats and officials; the actual event offers its own drama, pomp, and show; and the denouement, which is dissected endlessly to assess the longevity (or otherwise) of the partnership. Of various categories of summits multilateral, plurilateral, and bilateral nothing triggers greater frenzy than a wartime summit between the leaders of two great powers. This explains the enormous coverage and debate about the planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, which takes place in Alaska on 15 August. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Alaska Summit The only major war in Europe since World War II is now three and a half years old. Since its commencement on 24 February 2022, there has been no dearth of mediators, negotiations, and secret initiatives to end the war in Ukraine. The combatants, Europe, and the rest of the world are tired of this long war of attrition. They all want it to end soon. Trump, who proclaimed that he would end the war in 24 hours it wont take even that long has been struggling in his diplomatic efforts for the past six months. Is he now near a breakthrough? To spell out an objective answer, there is a need to visit three locales: the Kremlin, Washington, and Chevening House in Kent. On 6 August, US special envoy Steve Witcoff met President Putin in the Kremlin. This was their fifth meeting. It took place amidst US warnings that Moscow would face new financial penalties if it did not agree to end the war by 8 August. Action then shifted to the White House, where Trump announced on 8 August that he would have a summit meeting with Putin on 15 August. Speculation preceded the announcement on two counts: about the venue the UAE was considered and then abandoned before Alaska was finalised; and whether Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would participate in the summit. As of now, the summit is between the American and Russian leaders, although the presence of Zelenskyy in Alaska at the time has not been ruled out. Clearly, Putin is opposed to it, whereas Trump is under pressure to arrange it in some form. The third locale Chevening House is where US Vice President JD Vance, conveniently on a family holiday, held a meeting with European officials. Prior to the meeting, select European leaders (of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Britain, Finland, and the European Union) articulated their position through a joint statement issued on 10 August. The path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine, it insisted, even while welcoming Trumps work to stop the war and achieve lasting peace. On the issues of substance, a wide gulf persists. First, about the land: Ukraine and Europe assert that they are still committed to the principle that international borders must not be changed by force. In contrast, Russia insists on keeping a large chunk of Ukraines territory. The US President, in his dual role as the highest representative of the West and the mediator, has publicly said that there would be swapping of territories for the betterment of both sides. Other contentious issues include the question of a ceasefire, followed by detailed negotiations, security guarantees against future invasions, and the protection of the security interests of Ukraine and Europe. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a moment of candour, Vice President Vance stated that no side would be super happy, and a negotiated settlement between Russia and Ukraine was unlikely to satisfy either side. He added that the US was aiming for a settlement that both sides could accept. Optimists and sceptics/pessimists are busy offering their predictions. But gradually it is becoming clear that, given the heavy political investment made by Trump and Putin, the Alaska summit could result in making some progress. This gets reinforced by a realistic assessment of the ground situation by Nandan Unnikrishnan, a top Indian expert on Russia, who observed recently: Currently Russia is winning, and Ukraine will be unhappy under all circumstances. It is noteworthy that both China and India have publicly expressed support for the direct meeting between the US and Russia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held telephonic conversations with both Putin and Zelenskyy, emphasising his advocacy for an early diplomatic settlement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tianjin Summit Before August ends, China, holding the rotating presidency of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for 202425, will host the summit that runs from 31 August to 1 September. Established in 2001, the SCO with its 10-member states, 2 observer states, and 14 dialogue partners has come of age. It is viewed as a significant multilateral grouping focused on Eurasian affairs. Its trajectory, wrote Cambodian scholar Kin Phea, reflects institutional consolidation and trust building among diverse member states, anchored in the Shanghai spirit. As the host and president, China is likely to drive the summit discussions and conclusions in the direction that promotes its fundamental interests. There could be a connection between the Alaska and Tianjin summits. If the Alaska meeting achieves some progress, the assembly of leaders in China may contribute to further easing of East-West tensions. On the other hand, if Alaska results in a fiasco, the spectacle of Putin, Modi, and Xi Jinping holding hands together with a large group of leaders may be viewed somewhat negatively in Western capitals, especially Washington. An important angle on this SCO summit: Modi and Xi Jinping could hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines to thrash out their bilateral and regional differences within the context of the ongoing reset of bilateral relations and the adverse impact of China-Pakistan strategic collusion during the recent India-Pakistan conflict. The challenge for them is to keep moving forward on the bilateral plane while expanding space for cooperation on multilateral issues. The growing tensions in India-US relations in recent weeks form the immediate backdrop. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Other summits Before the year 2025 concludes, three other summits may draw considerable attention from everyone interested in world politics. Since he took over as US President in January, there has been speculation about Trumps visit to China or a possible meeting with Xi Jinping somewhere else. As and when this meeting takes place, it is certain to shape the flow of great power relations. Then, it will be time for the Putin-Modi summit when the former visits India before the years end. This summit is imbued with significance as Putin last came to India in 2021. Much has changed since then in the region and the world. Finally, there is the next Quad summit, which India is scheduled to host before the end of the year. Its prospects have dimmed considerably, with some scholars suggesting that as Washington and New Delhi have been out of sync on multiple issues not just tariffs the present may not be the most suitable time for a Quad gathering at the highest level. The argument factors in the shabby treatment given by Americans to Japan and Australia, the other two members of the Quad. New Delhi will have to take a call on the timing of the Quad summit, even as it begins preparations for the BRICS summit in 2026. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In short, the current season of summits has just begun. Rajiv Bhatia is a Distinguished Fellow at Gateway House, a former Indian Ambassador with extensive diplomatic experience in regional and global groupings, and the author of three books on Indian foreign policy. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. A world union thats necessary. An outlook thats international. A life thats fairer. A space for smaller nations thats larger. A security for larger ones thats sturdier. A citizenship thats multilateral. A new human race thats bound together by the oneness of spirit. These are gleanings from Sri Aurobindos third dream, articulated for a 15 August 1947 programme that All India Radio had requested and broadcast a day earlier. Compressed into 281 words, Sri Aurobindos vision for an entity called earthdivided and bordered by man into 193 countriesis as eternal as it is practical, as timeless as it is immediate. And it is the only foundation for any attempt at global unity, an effort repeatedly attempted but failed for lack of this fundamental base. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Sri Aurobindo was 75 when India became an independent nation on 15 August 1947. He was a political activist and organiser, an intellectual edifice, author of purna swarajyaa compromise-free complete freedomand one who had preordained Indias Independence decades earlier. In a September 1935 letter, he wrote to a disciple: Have I not told you that the independence is all arranged for and will evolve itself all right? A March 1946 statement to Amrita Bazar Patrika said, He (Sri Aurobindo) has always stood for Indias complete independence which he was the first to advocate publicly and without compromise as the only ideal worthy of a self-respecting nation. To him, the new challenge was the actions of a free India: Its what she (India) will do with her independence that is not arranged forand so it is that about which I have to bother. Bringing Indias freedom and her place in international affairs together, Sri Aurobindos third dream sets out the vision. A world-union, he said, is under way; there is an imperfect initiation organised but struggling against tremendous difficulties. But the momentum is there and it must inevitably increase and conquer. Earlier attempts at uniting the world had failed. The Concert of Europe had two incarnations, both of which died, first in 1860 and then in 1914. The League of Nations collapsed in 1946. And under the assault of Xi Jinping from Beijing, Vladimir Putin from Moscow, and Donald J. Trump from Washington D.C., the third attemptthe United Nationsis on its deathbed today. All treaties, all negotiations, all checks and balances have been swept aside by the force of raw powerpolitical, religious, ideological. Minus the scale, but factoring in the nuclear threats from the US, the Russian Federation, and even the failed terrorist state of Pakistan, we are at the brink of a war uncertainty that defined 1939. Indias role here, according to Sri Aurobindo, is to develop a larger statesmanship that is not limited by the present but looks into the future. Her [Indias] presence may make all the difference between a slow and timid and a bold and swift development. We can see the green shoots of such a development in the balance New Delhi is attempting by goading leaders to eschew war, embrace peace, while condemning religious terrorism and political expansions. Unification, Sri Aurobindo wrote, is a necessity of Nature, an inevitable movement. The interim may be marked by catastrophes or interruptions, but the future is preordained. All countriesfrom large hegemons such as the US, China, and Russia to small nations like Lesotho and Taiwan, and intermediate rising powers like India and Indonesiaare clear about the virtues of unity. Without it (unity) the freedom of the small nations may be at any moment in peril and the life even of the large and powerful nations insecure, he wrote. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Here, Sri Aurobindo warns the world against pushing for unity in the garb of uniformity. A political and purely outward unity with a mechanical uniformity and centralisation would prove a failure, he wrote in June 1947. Whatever we decide let us preserve the principle peculiarly suited to the unique psychological and physical conditions of this great land and the life of its people which was to develop through numerous autonomous centres of culture and power. This applies equally to defining unity through diversity within borders for nations as it does to planetary cross-border unity. He conceded that while human imbecility and stupid selfishness can prevent unity, these cannot stand for ever against the necessity of Nature and the Divine Will. The former is in full glory, playing in every global theatre of power; the latter is, perhaps, a stream that may flow from India. So, what defines a true unity that is not uniformity? An international spirit and outlook, and institutional forms. These include developments such as dual or multilateral citizenship, willed interchange or voluntary fusion of cultures. Such an approach will end the necessity of present nationalismcrucial today for self-preservationand evolve into a future unity. A new spirit of oneness will take hold of the human race. Unity of the spirit rather than uniformity by domination is the way forward. Resting on the idea of fraternity of men (if the union of souls is culturally inconvenient), this is the future of geopolitics and international relations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thus far, the field of geopolitics has evolvedfrom the race for imperial hegemony; through the Cold War of US-Soviet Union binary versus emerging multipolarities; to finally, an eastward swing towards China from the 2000s onwards and India as it readies to embrace a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The present is a sliver of confrontations; the future is a vast intermingling of interests, values, and harmonies. In an atmosphere of deals, bombs, or weaponisation of trade, technology, and turmoil, these ideas may seem out of sync. When the unit of power dominates the unit of harmony, a global unity may seem aspirational and not practical. But when viewed through the prism of the evolution of man, his countries, his institutions, and his quest for growth, these ideals articulate and envision the future like none other. Sri Aurobindos is not a defeatist stance couched in utopia; it is a destined aphorism of the future. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The other four dreams Sri Aurobindo articulated were freedom through a revolutionary movement; resurgence and liberation of the peoples of Asia; the proliferation of Indian spiritual traditions to the world; and India as the central creator of the evolution of consciousness for humanity. These five dreams can be seen as the material-philosophical-spiritual grand strategy designed for India, and through it the world. Author and writer, Gautam Chikermane is Vice President at Observer Research Foundation. He tracks grand strategy, international relations, geopolitics and economics. His latest books are Indias Grand Strategy (Observer Research Foundation), Reform Nation (HarperCollins, 2022) and Reading Sri Aurobindo (Penguin Random House, 2022, co-edited). Follow him on Twitter @gchikermane. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Independence Day celebration in Pakistans Karachi took a dark turn after three people, including a senior citizen and an 8-year-old girl, were killed in the city due to reckless aerial firing. Independence Day celebration in Pakistans Karachi took a dark turn after three people, including a senior citizen and an 8-year-old girl, were killed in the city due to reckless aerial firing. Apart from this, over 60 people sustained gunshot injuries at events across the city. According to Pakistani news outlet Geo News, the young girl was hit by a stray bullet in Azizabad, and a man named Stephen was killed in Korangi. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Rescue officials told the Pakistani news outlet that dozens were injured due to celebratory gunfire across the city. Authorities soon released a statment condemning the practice and calling it reckless and dangerous. They urged citizens to mark Independence Day in safer ways. In light of this, the Karachi police have also initiated an investigation and assured that strict actions will be taken against those involved in aerial firing. Gun violence is common in Pakistan. According to Ary News, at least 42 people, including five women, lost their lives in firing incidents across Karachi in January. Apart from this, 233 people, including five women, were injured in these incidents. Five people were killed while thwarting robbery attempts in the firing events, which were reported in different regions of the city. Local authorities attribute these episodes to several factors, including disagreements, personal animosities, and resistance to robbery attempts, Ary News reported. Road accidents, robbery resistance, and aerial firing also contributed to a spike in deaths in Karachi earlier in January. As per a report by the Chipa Foundation, 528 people, including children and the elderly, were injured in road accidents, and 36 people died as a result. Additionally, robbery resistance incidents resulted in three fatalities and fifteen injuries in the city. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from ANI. While US President Donald Trump warns his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, of severe consequences, here are five reasons why the threat holds no substance ahead of the Alaska talks While speaking to the reporters on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump warned that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, would face very severe consequences if he did not agree to a ceasefire in the Ukraine war at the Alaska Summit on Friday. Trumps remarks on the matter came after he held talks with the Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with other European leaders. While Trumps latest warning against Putin drew significant attention ahead of the Alaska summit, many wonder if the threat holds any substance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While speaking to the reporters on Wednesday, Trump also suggested that if his meeting with Putin goes well, he will organise a second summit, which would include Zelenskyy as well. If the first one goes OK, well have a quick second one, Trump told reporters in Washington. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin, President Zelenskyy and me, if theyd like to have me there. Trump will be meeting Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday. The summit will reportedly be held at the Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson, a military facility crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War. Here are 5 reasons why Trumps threat might fizzle out. Feel-out session Ahead of the talks in Alaska, Trumps White House has already lowered expectations for any breakthrough from the meeting. In the run-up to the meeting, the Trump administration often used terms like listening session and feel-out meeting to describe the planned discussion about the war in Ukraine. Even Trump himself has indicated that the Friday summit in Alaska is not meant to be one that ultimately brings an end to the Ukraine war, which has been raging on for three years. Theres a very good chance that were going to have a second meeting that will be more productive than the first, Trump said Wednesday. Because the first is Im going to find out where we are and what were doing. Meanwhile, the White House has also steered clear of making any firm commitments about what will come out of Fridays gathering in Anchorage. This is a listening exercise for this president, Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday. 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 firmer and better understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end. Hence, Russia poses no immediate threat to the Trump administration after the Friday meeting. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD TACO? There has been a peculiar term going around on social media describing Trumps frequently shifting stance. The term is called TACO, and it is not about the famous Mexican food. The full form of the term is Trump Always Chickens Out. Before the Alaska meeting was announced, on July 28, Trump set a new deadline of 10 or 12 days for Russia to reach a peace deal in its war on Ukraine. The American leader warned that if Russia failed to do so, it would face tough new sanctions and tariffs. Interestingly, Trumps warning came as he shortened a 50-day deadline he had set this month. However, the deadline is long gone, and the US did nothing to Russia. Instead, the Trump administration unleashed wrath on India by imposing nearly 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods. Trump went on to threaten secondary sanctions on India for purchasing Russian oil. While speaking to _Firstpost_ earlier this week, Trumps former National Security Adviser John Bolton called out the presidents duplicity of standards. Another 25 per cent imposed on Indian exports to the US because of the purchase of Russian oil and gas. Yet at the same time, within days, Trump was agreeing to a summit meeting with Putin in Alaska this coming Friday and not proceeding with his threat to impose tariffs on Russia or put further sanctions on Russia, Bolton told Firstpost on Tuesday. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD During all this time, no sanctions were imposed on China for its even larger purchases of Russian oil and gas. So I think its just typical of the confusion in the way Trump does business. But its going to cause, I think, severe difficulties between the US and India at a time when we should be doing exactly the opposite, he said. The former US ambassador to the UN pointed out how Russia was not harmed by any of Trumps initiatives. When asked about Trumps reluctance to hold trade talks with India until it stops purchasing oil from Russia, Bolton emphasised that the whole thing is self-defeating. He said, It is indicative of Trumps inability to prioritise among competing objectives. He hoped that this [secondary sanctions] would affect the negotiations that will take place in Alaska this Friday. But the fact is, it hasnt hurt Russia at all. India still buys oil from Russia. So tariffs hurt India, but dont hurt Russia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The secondary tariff is not as effective as dealing with Russia directly, but Im not sure anybody in the White House has explained that to Trump, he added. Already pushing for a second summit Even before the Alaska summit, Trump is already preparing for a second summit. Part of the reason the Potus is pushing for a second summit is that this one wont involve Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Ukraine and several European leaders have already made it clear that a peace deal cannot be signed without Ukraines say in it. Earlier this month, there were reports that the Trump administration was pushing for Zelesnkyys inclusion in the Alaska meeting. However, the Kremlin insisted that the meeting should be kept bilateral. Putin said that he was not ready to meet his Ukrainian counterpart even as the Kremlin claimed preparations were underway for a set-piece bilateral summit with Donald Trump next week. I have nothing against it in general; it is possible, but certain conditions must be created for this, the Russian leader averred when asked about the meeting with Zelenskyy. But unfortunately, we are still far from creating such conditions," he added. Trump ultimately bowed down to Putins wishes and said that he is willing to talk to him at first without Zelenskyy. While speaking to the reporters in the Oval Office on the same day of the Kremlins request, Trump said Putin did not have to meet with Zelenskyy first before the US and Russian presidents could meet. No, he doesnt, Trump said. They would like to meet with me, and Ill do whatever I can to stop the killing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It might come as reassurance to Zelenskyy and European leaders Trumps warning against Putin came after his phone call with Zelenskyy and European leaders. In the impromptu call, US Vice President JD Vance was also in attendance. Trump said that he had a very good call with European leaders in which he consulted them about the general goal and strategy for his summit. He told reporters that he gave reassurances to the European leader that a ceasefire was his priority and he would not make any territorial concessions without Kyivs full involvement. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said that Trumps approach at the video conference appeared to reassure some of the leaders, who were making a final collective plea to the unpredictable US president that he had a duty to protect Ukraines sovereignty and European security at the talks. Hence, Trumps remarks after the call can be seen as just his way to assure Zelenskyy and European leaders without any anger directed towards Putin. Putin has his cards to play While we contemplate Trumps strategies for the Alaska meeting, the key piece of the puzzle is what Russian President Vladimir Putin brings to the table. Well, for most of the first six months, what Trump was trying to do was use what he thought was his friendship with Vladimir Putin to negotiate a ceasefire in Ukraine. Now Ill just tell you from my own experience, Ambassador Bolton told Firstpost. Putin doesnt see Trump as his friend. He sees them as somebody that he thinks he can manipulate in true, true fashion of a former KGB agent. And I think hes been pretty successful with it. But at some point toward the end of the first six months, whether intentionally or unintentionally, I think Putin pushed Trump a little too far, and Trump concluded that Putin wasnt interested in a ceasefire. Thats what angered him. He threatened tariffs on Russian exports to the US and secondary sanctions or tariffs on countries that were buying Russian oil and gas. So all of these issues with the secondary sanctions have arisen within the past 30 or 45 days, he explained. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Bolton emphasised that the Russian president had already won with the meeting in Alaska. Well, I think Putin has seen the playbook, so it wouldnt surprise me if he came with a big plaque that said Heres my letter of nomination [Nobel Peace Prize] for you. I think what Putin really wants to do is use his KGB training and try to get Trump back under his influence, Bolton said. I do think he recognises he pushed Trump too far. Maybe he did it intentionally, maybe unintentionally. I dont know. 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. 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, Ambassador Bolton concluded. Hence, all five reasons point to the fact that Trumps latest threat against Putin might not be of much substance. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD After attending the European leaders summit with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is heading to London to hold talks with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer ahead of the Alaska summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is due in London to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, to take stock ahead of US President Donald Trumps key talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. Zelenskyy, who was in Germany on Wednesday, has been working with European leaders to press Trump not to allow Putin to carve up Ukraines territory at the Alaska summit. He is due to meet Starmer at 9.30 a.m. local time (0830 GMT) at the British premiers official residence, 10 Downing Street. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On Wednesday, Trump joined a Germany-hosted virtual meeting with European leaders, including Zelenskiy, who sought to set red lines ahead of the summit on ending the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy said he warned Trump that the Russian leader was bluffing about his desire to end the war. Trump later threatened severe consequences if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine and while he did not specify what the consequences could be, he has warned of economic sanctions if his meeting on Friday proves fruitless. The comments and the outcome of the virtual conference on Wednesday could provide encouragement for Kyiv ahead of the summit. Trump described the aim of his talks with Putin in Alaska as setting the table for a quick follow-up that would include Zelenskyy. If the first one goes okay, well have a quick second one, Trump 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. Britain, France and Germany, the co-chairs of the so-called Coalition of the Willing, set out their position on the pathway to a ceasefire in Ukraine in a statement released after Wednesdays virtual meeting. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD (This is an agency copy. Except for the headline, it has not been edited by Firstpost staff.) Ahead of the US-Russia Summit in Alaska, US President Donald Trump said that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, would face severe consequences if he did not agree to a truce with Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk during the family photo session at the APEC Summit in Danang, Vietnam November 11, 2017. Reuters US President Donald Trump warned that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, would face very severe consequences if he did not agree to a ceasefire in the Ukraine war at the Alaska Summit on Friday. Trumps remarks on the matter came after his call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders. While speaking to the reporters on Wednesday, Trump also suggested that if his meeting with Putin goes well, he will organise a second summit, which would include Zelenskyy as well. If the first one goes OK, well have a quick second one, Trump told reporters in Washington. I would like to do it almost immediately, and well have a quick second meeting between President Putin, President Zelenskyy and me, if theyd like to have me there. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, the president did not provide any timeframe for a second meeting. Trump will be meeting Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday. The summit will reportedly be held at the Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson, a military facility crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War. Trump delivers a warning to Putin When asked if Russia would face consequences if Putin did not agree to a ceasefire after the summit, the Republican firebrand gave an affirmative response. Yes, they will very severe consequences," Trump remarked. Trump made it clear that he had a very good call with European leaders in which he consulted them about the general goal and strategy for his summit. He told reporters that he gave reassurances to the European leader that a ceasefire was his priority and he would not make any territorial concessions without Kyivs full involvement. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said that Trumps approach at the video conference appeared to reassure some of the leaders, who were making a final collective plea to the unpredictable US president that he had a duty to protect Ukraines sovereignty and European security at the talks. The European leaders spoke to Trump and his Vice President, JD Vance, in a hastily convened one-hour meeting in an effort to shape Trumps negotiating strategy. The meeting took place since Zelenskyy and European leaders have been excluded from the summit and fear that Trump would make concessions that compromise Ukraines future sovereignty. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, Trump made it clear that he underlined his promise that the summit was not in itself a substantive negotiation and described it as a feel-out to test Putins terms to sign a temporary ceasefire that would then lead to talks with Kyiv. In a show of strength ahead of the Alaska summit with US President Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin appears ready to test a nuclear missile that he has envisioned as Russias answer to Americas Golden Dome, the four-layer air defence system in the making. Ahead of the Alaska summit with US President Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin is ready for a show of strength with the test-launch of a nuclear missile. A Western security source and independent analysts told Reuters that Russia is prepared for to test-launch nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered Burevestnik missile. Satellite imagery taken in recent weeks has shown extensive preparations for the test-launch at Pankovo test site on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya. If Putin goes ahead of the launch, it would serve as a show of force ahead of the summit with Trump and defiance of his calls for a ceasefire. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A satellite view shows equipment at the Pankovo test site in Yuzhny Island, on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, Russia, August 7, 2025. (2025 Planet Labs PBC/Handout via Reuters) The Burevestnik missile can hit anywhere in the world. It flies at an extremely low-altitude flight for enhanced stealth with the evasion of radars. It follows unpredictable flight paths and has near-indefinite loiter time, allowing it to circle targets and approach from unexpected directions. It has been designed as Russias response to Western air defence systems, including the American Golden Dome under development. Watch: Russias preparations to test-launch Burevestnik Satellite imagery captured by Planet Labs shows extensive activity at the Pankovo test site, including increases in personnel and equipment and ships and aircraft associated with earlier tests of the Burevestnik missile, Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth of the CNA research and analysis organisation told Reuters. They said the imagery showed stacks of shipping containers, equipment, and personnel arriving at the place since late July. Lewis said that two aircraft equipped to gather test data had been parked at the Novaya Zemlyas Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July. He further said that at least five ships associated with previous tests were in the area and Reuters reported that a ship-tracking website showed that a sixth ship linked to earlier tests was due to arrive on Tuesday. A satellite view shows equipment at the Pankovo test site in Yuzhny Island, on the Barents Sea archipelago of Novaya Zemlya, Russia, August 7, 2025. (2025 Planet Labs PBC/Handout via Reuters) We can see all of the activity at the test site, which is both huge amounts of supplies coming in to support operations and movement at the place where they actually launch the missile, said Lewis. A Western security source further said that Russia is preparing for a Burevestnik test. Lewis said that Russia could conduct the test this week that could overshadow the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. China expressed support for Thailand and Cambodia in resolving their border dispute on Thursday and offered to provide assistance based on the wishes of both nations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. China on Thursday expressed its support for Thailand and Cambodia in settling their border dispute, offering to extend assistance in line with the preferences of both nations, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. Wang said that Beijing supports the two Southeast Asian countries in deepening dialogue and dispelling misunderstandings, expressing hope they would rebuild mutual trust and restore friendly ties, according to his ministrys statements. During the day, Wang held separate meetings with his Thai and Cambodian counterparts, as well as a three-way discussion on the sidelines of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers Meeting in Chinas southwestern Yunnan province, official readouts showed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In what was described as a friendly and candid exchange, Wang expressed the hope that Thailand and Cambodia would reopen their border crossings at the earliest opportunity, the Chinese foreign ministry said. Beijing also pledged to support landmine clearance efforts in the border areas between the two countries. The three ministers agreed to maintain contact and address the issue in a flexible manner, according to the statement. In their friendly and candid communication, Wang said China hoped that the two countries could reopen border crossings as soon as possible, a Chinese foreign ministry statement said. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said he had attended an informal tea chat consultation with Chinese and Cambodian counterparts and expressed appreciation for Chinas constructive role in supporting peace. There was no immediate comment from Cambodia. Thailand and Cambodia have wrangled for decades over border territory and a border conflict erupted last month after the killing of a Cambodian soldier in a skirmish late in May. It was the worst fighting in more than a decade and only eased after a ceasefire was struck in late July. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a bilateral meeting with Thailands Maris, Wang spoke about Chinas readiness to accelerate a China-Thailand railway construction project, encourage more investments from Chinese enterprises in Thailand and ensure the stability of the regional production and supply chain. It is hoped that Thailand will provide more policy support and facilitation for Chinese enterprises, he told his Thai counterpart. While meeting with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Wang sounded support for Cambodia maintaining political stability, and said China is appreciative of the countrys crackdown on online gambling and wire fraud. He also expressed hopes that Cambodia will continue strong measures for joint efforts in the region against cross-border criminal activities. Amid strained India-US relations, China on Thursday expressed optimism about the future of India-China ties, saying a cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both the countries Amid strained India-US relations, China on Thursday expressed optimism about the future of India-China ties, saying a cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both the countries. China and India are both major developing countries and important members of the Global South. A cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both sides, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Addressing speculation over a possible visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Delhi on August 18 for talks with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, Lin confirmed that both sides are maintaining communication at various levels. We stand ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between the leaders of our two countries, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, cement political mutual trust, enhance practical cooperation, properly handle differences, and promote the sustained, sound, and steady development of ChinaIndia ties, said Lin, noting that regarding the specific visit, relevant information will be released in due course. There has been a gradual thaw in India-China ties, as both sides continue steps to ease tensions. China and India are set to resume direct flights next month and Beijing has relaxed some curbs on fertilizer exports to India. Indian airlines have reportedly been instructed to prepare for services to China, with an official announcement expected during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit later this month. When asked to confirm these reports, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing had taken note of them but did not provide a specific timeline for the resumption. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit China later this month for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit his first trip there in seven years with a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping likely on the sidelines. The warming of ties comes as New Delhis relations with Washington strain, following a steep 50% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on Indian exports. With inputs from agencies Five years after the Galwan Valley clash that plunged the India-China ties to the lowest point since the 1962 war, India and China are currently in talks to resume border trade that was suspended in 2020, according to a report. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China's President Xi Jinping. Many experts note that China and India are striking the same defiant note against Trump. File image/Reuters Five years after the deadly clashes in Ladakhs Galwan Valley, India and China are in talks to resume border trade, according to a report. In early 2020, Chinese forces mounted incursions at multiple locations on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the de facto border between the two countries, and clashed with Indian personnel. In June 2020, Chinese troops attacked Indian soldiers and killed 20 Indian Army personnel, plunging the India-China relationship to the lowest point since 1962 when the two countries fought a war. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the latest step to stabilise the ties, Bloomberg has now reported that India and China are discussing resuming border trade of locally made goods. The border trade was shut in 2020 as the Covid-19 pandemic, which began in Chinas Wuhan, was raging. As the India-China relationship soon nosedived from border tensions, the trade was reopened. The report said that India and China have proposed restarting trade through designated points on the border and the matter is currently under bilateral discussion. Previously, India and China had traded locally-produced goods like spices, carpets, wooden furniture, cattle fodder, pottery, medicinal plants, electric items, and wool through three designated points along the LAC. However, the resumption of border trade will be largely symbolic and will not mean much as it accounts for a tiny fraction of the overall trade. In 2017-18, the last year for which border trade data is available, the India-China border trade was $3.16 million, which was less than 0.1 per cent of the overall trade by value. While India did not comment on the report, Chinese foreign ministry said that it is willing to step up communication and coordination with India on the matter. It further said that border trade between China and India has long played an important role in improving lives of the two countries border residents. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Over the past year, India and China have taken steps aimed at stabilising the relationship, such as India and China partially resolving the Ladakh standoff, China resuming the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, and India resuming visas to Chinese tourists. However, India-China relationship remains far from normal and tensions and distrust continue to dominate it. Despite such steps, China has continued to undermine India even if those acts have not made frequent headlines. For example, China has stopped the supply of rare earths to India even though it has resumed supplies to other countries. China has stopped the supply of speciality fertilisers to India. China has banned its engineers from working in mobile factories in India to hurt Indias manufacturing ambitions and companies diversifying their manufacturing and supply chains out of China. Above all, China has continued to support Pakistan to the hilt against India. ALSO READ: LAC patrolling may be back to pre-2020 level, but India-China ties are headed to new normal STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In May when India and Pakistan clashed for four days, Pakistani weapons, warplanes, and military systems were its militarys mainstay against India. The Chinese-Pakistani integration was such that Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, the deputy chief of the Indian Army, said that China was fighting India via a backdoor. 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, Singh further said. Pakistan has begun to deport documented Afghan refugees ahead of its September 1 deadline for them to leave, according to the United Nations, a step that could see more than 1 million Afghans expelled from the country. In total, more than one million Afghans have left Pakistan since 2023, including more than 200,000 since April. AFP File Germany is assessing whether Afghans stranded in Pakistan and awaiting resettlement will still be permitted to enter the country, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said on Thursday as Islamabad steps up deportations. Pakistan has begun expelling documented Afghan refugees ahead of its September 1 deadline for their departure, the United Nations said, a move that could force more than one million Afghans out of the country. The group includes over 2,000 Afghans approved for relocation to Germany under an admission programme aimed at evacuating individuals deemed at risk under Taliban rule in Afghanistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A source familiar with the situation told Reuters that Pakistani authorities have continued detaining Afghans for deportation across the border, even during the countrys Independence Day holiday on Thursday. People with German admission approval are being brought to the Torkham border (between Pakistan and Afghanistan) as we speak, the source told Reuters. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt confirmed that some Afghans in Germanys resettlement scheme have recently drawn the attention of Pakistani authorities, and Berlin was in discussions with Islamabad over their status. We are reviewing whether these people can actually leave for Germany. Whether this actually happens depends on the outcome of the review process, Dobrindt told journalists. Germanys admission programme for at-risk Afghans launched in October 2022 by the centre-left government in office at the time is now under review following Februarys migration-focused election won by conservatives. The new centre-right coalition intends to close the scheme, which had already been suspended pending an ongoing review. Since May 2021, Germany has admitted about 36,500 Afghans seen as vulnerable to Taliban crackdowns, but the conservative-led government says humanitarian migration now exceeds the countrys integration capacity. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On Wednesday, Germanys foreign ministry said it was in close contact with Pakistani authorities and using established emergency mechanisms to prevent deportations of Afghans. The interior ministry said it could not provide a timeline to determine the future of the admission programme but expects decisions soon. It did not say whether the increase in deportations from Pakistan would hasten a decision. With inputs from agencies MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also said no decision had yet been taken on whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would attend the United Nations General Assembly later this year. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday underlined the importance of defence ties between India and the United States, terming them as a key component of the overall bilateral relationship. The IndiaUS defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at a weekly briefing. #WATCH | Delhi | On India-US Defence ties, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "The India-U.S. defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements, is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. This robust cooperation has strengthened across all domains. pic.twitter.com/6UCfmpQDv0 ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This robust cooperation has strengthened across all domains. We are expecting a US Defence Policy Team to be in Delhi in mid-August. The 21st edition of the joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas is also expected to take place later this month in Alaska. Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 Intersessional meeting at the working level towards the end of this month, he added. On the recent Human Rights report issued by the US State Department, Jaiswal reiterated Indias strong objection, saying such assessments were a mix of imputations, misrepresentations and one-sided projections that showed a poor understanding of Indias democratic framework, pluralistic society and robust institutional mechanisms for protecting human rights. He said India did not attach any credence to such biased assessments and remained focused on advancing human rights through inclusive governance and development. Jaiswal also said no decision had yet been taken on whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would attend the United Nations General Assembly later this year. Development in E1, an open tract of land east of Jerusalem, has been under consideration for more than two decades, but was frozen due to US pressure during previous administrations Maale Adumim is a Jewish settlement in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where over 400,000 Israelis live alongside 2.6 million Palestinians. (Photo: Reuters) Israels Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans to resettle the West Bank, drawing widespread criticism from Palestinians and rights advocates who say the project would change prospects of a future Palestinian state by dividing the region into two parts. While announcing the plan on Thursday, Smotrich said, This reality finally buries the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing to recognise and no one to recognise. Anyone in the world who tries today to recognise a Palestinian state will receive an answer from us on the ground. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The announcement comes at a time when more and more countries are stepping forward to recognise the state of Palestine. Development in E1, an open tract of land east of Jerusalem, has been under consideration for more than two decades, but was frozen due to US pressure during previous administrations. On Thursday, Smotrich praised President Donald Trump and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee as true friends of Israel as we have never had before. What does the plan entail? The E1 plan has not yet received its final approval, which is expected next week. The plan includes around 3,500 apartments to expand the settlement of Maale Adumim, Smotrich said. While some bureaucratic steps remain, if the process moves quickly, infrastructure work could begin in the next few months and construction of homes could start in around a year. The finance minister said that he has got a green signal from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his plans. He backs me up in everything concerning Judea and Samaria, and is letting me create the revolution, Smotrich said. Rights groups protest Rights groups swiftly condemned the plan. Peace Now called it deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution which is guaranteeing many more years of bloodshed. The announcement comes as the Palestinian Authority and Arab countries condemned Netanyahus statement in an interview on Tuesday 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. With inputs from agencies Zelenskyys absence at a meeting that seeks to end the long-drawn-out war in Ukraine is being perceived as a futile exercise by observers across the world, with many saying that negotiations for a ceasefire cannot happen without Kyivs presence Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would not be attending Fridays Alaska summit between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, where discussions will be ironically centred around the Ukraine war. Zelenskyys absence at a meeting that seeks to end the long-drawn-out war in Ukraine is being perceived as a futile exercise by observers across the world, with many saying that negotiations for a ceasefire cannot happen without Kyivs presence. Ukraines non-attendance at the summit has also sparked concerns among European leaders about the countrys future role in potential negotiations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Europe rallies for Ukrainian interests Zelensky flew to Berlin on Wednesday and met Merz before they both joined other European leaders for talks with Trump ahead of his planned summit with Putin in Alaska on Friday. Other leaders on the call included French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the heads of the European Union and NATO. Merz said a ceasefire must be the starting point and that negotiations must include robust security guarantees for Kyiv and be part of a joint transatlantic strategy. He said Ukraine is ready to negotiate on territorial issues but also that legal recognition of Russian occupations is not up for debate and that the principle that borders may not be changed by force must continue to apply. There is hope for movement, there is hope for peace in Ukraine, he said. A second call has been planned involving Trump, Vance, and Zelenskyy to follow up on talks with European leaders. Russias demands and fears of painful concessions Putin is expected to push for firm terms, including Russia retaining control of occupied Ukrainian regions, Ukraine dropping plans to join Nato, and new elections in affected Ukrainian areas. Meanwhile, Trump has once again shifted his tone, warning Putin that Russia will face very severe consequences if it does not agree to the Ukraine truce deals. At the same time, the US president has himself indicated that his talks with Putin might not yield any real results and that it will be a feel-out meeting to test Putins terms to sign a temporary ceasefire. Uncertain prospects for peace While some hope Trumps efforts could hasten an end to the war, scepticism abounds. Many analysts see the summit as more symbolic and unlikely to produce lasting resolutions, especially without Ukraine at the negotiating table. Also, the choice of Alaska, historically linked to both the US and Russia, adds symbolic heft to the meeting. For Putin, appearing alongside Trump on US soil signals a restoration of Russias global standing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD With inputs from agencies The move is reportedly aimed at matching Indias defence system. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force at an event held to commemorate its worst conflict with India in a decade in May Months after being thwarted by India as a result of Operation Sindoor, Pakistan has decided to establish a new force in military force for supervising its missile combat capabilities in the event of conventional combat. The move is reportedly aimed at matching Indias defence system. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force at an event held to commemorate its worst conflict with India in a decade in May. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It will be equipped with modern technology, Sharif said in a statement from his office, adding that the force will prove to be a milestone in strengthening the combat capability of Pakistans army. A senior security official told Reuters that the force will have its own command in the military, which will be dedicated to handling and deployment of missiles during conventional wars. It is obvious that it is meant for India, he said. India-US joint military exercise Meanwhile, India and the US will undertake a joint military exercise next month, according to a report by The Print. The annual exercise, known as Yudh Abhyas, will take place from 1 to 16 September in Alaska, US, and will feature an all-arms contingent from the Indian Army, led by the Madras Regiment. A source told the publication, The upcoming edition will see participation from both sides in high-altitude conditions in Alaska, a factor that adds operational complexity to the drills. Such settings will also allow troops to train in environments that mirror potential conflict zones. Launched in 2004 under the Indo-US Defence Cooperation Agreement, Yudh Abhyas is held annually, alternating between locations in India and the United States. The previous edition took place in Rajasthan in 2024. The exercise typically involves tactical field training between the Indian Army and the US Army, focusing on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, and peacekeeping operations. It also includes command post drills centred on mission planning, joint operations, and coordination under United Nations mandates. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD President Putin on Thursday praised the US for its sincere efforts to end the war in Ukraine and raised the possibility of a nuclear arms deal ahead of his upcoming summit with President Donald Trump Russia's President Vladimir Putin meets with representatives of the Russian business circles in Moscow on May 26, 2025. AFP File Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday praised the United States for its sincere efforts to end the war in Ukraine and raised the possibility of a nuclear arms deal ahead of his upcoming summit with President Donald Trump, as European leaders urged Trump to take a firm stance. Putin, speaking ahead of his trip to Alaska, appeals to Trumps desire for a Nobel. He says the US is making energetic and sincere efforts to end the conflict, and dangles long-term conditions for peace [] if we reach agreements on strategic offensive arms control. pic.twitter.com/JxrwJ4Vmcx max seddon (@maxseddon) August 14, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Speaking to his most senior ministers and security officials as he prepared for the meeting with Trump in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday, Putin said, United States is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict. This was happening, Putin said, in order to create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole - if, by the next stages, we reach agreements in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons. Putins remarks signalled that Russia will raise the issue of nuclear arms control as part of a wide-ranging discussion on security when he sits down with Trump for the first Russia-US summit since June 2021. The Alaska meeting, that could shape the endgame to the largest war in Europe since World War Two, follows intensified efforts by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his European allies to prevent any deal that carves up Ukraines territory and leaves it vulnerable to future attack. A senior eastern European official told Reuters that Putin would try to distract Trump from Ukraine at the talks by offering him possible progress on nuclear arms control or something business-related. We hope Trump wont be fooled by the Russians, he understands all (these) dangerous things, Reuters quoted the official as saying. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The only strategic goal for the Russians is not to receive new sanctions, and to lift the sanctions that the US and others (imposed) previously. The Russians have no other big goals now. They think they will find a way to take all of Ukraine in one way or another, the source added. Seeking clarity on security guarantees Ukraines allies said President Trump appeared willing to support security guarantees for Kyiv a potentially significant, though still , commitment that offers a glimmer of hope for Ukraine. According to European leaders, Trump expressed this willingness during a last-minute virtual meeting with them and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Wednesday, although he made no public reference to the offer afterward. Yesterday, together with all our partners, and today in a bilateral format, we discussed expectations for the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects, Zelenskyy said after a meeting in London with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. 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. Fridays summit comes at one of the toughest moments for Ukraine in a war that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Speaking after Wednesdays meeting, French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump insisted that the transatlantic Nato alliance should not be part of security guarantees that would be designed to protect Ukraine from future attacks in a post-war settlement. President Trump also stated this clearly, saying things that I find important: namely, that Nato should not be part of these security guarantees - and we know this is a key point, particularly for the Russian side - but (also) that the United States and all willing allies should be part of them. That is what we are committed to, Macron said. Expanding on that, a European official told Reuters that Trump said on the call he was willing to provide some security guarantees for Europe, without spelling out what they would be. The official, who did not want to be named, said this was the first time he has been so explicit about providing some guarantees since the Coalition of the Willing talks led by Britain and France began in March. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It felt like a big step forward, the official said. It was not immediately clear what such guarantees could mean in practice. On Wednesday, Trump threatened severe consequences if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine and while he did not specify what the consequences could be, he has warned of economic sanctions if his meeting on Friday proves fruitless. However, Russia is likely to resist Ukraine and Europes demands strongly and previously has said its stance had not changed since it was first detailed by Putin in June 2024. A Kremlin aide said Putin and Trump will discuss the huge untapped potential for Russia-US economic ties as well as the prospects for ending the war at the meeting. Zelenskyy confirmed this week that Russian forces had advanced by about 9-10 km (6 miles) near the town of Dobropillia in the Donetsk region. Ukraine, suffering manpower challenges, was forced to move in reserves to stabilise the situation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump has said a deal could include what he called a land swap. Russia controls around a fifth of Ukraine and a land swap within Ukraine could cement Moscows gains. Zelenskyy and the Europeans worry that would reward Putin for 11 years of efforts to seize Ukrainian land and embolden him to expand further west in Europe. With inputs from agencies In a latest crackdown on freedom of speech, Russia has restricted messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of failing to share information with law enforcement In a latest crackdown on freedom of speech, Russia has restricted messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing the foreign-owned platforms of failing to share information with law enforcement. The authorities maintained that neither platform gave information to officials investigating law and terrorism cases. It is pertinent to note that for several years, Moscow has clashed with foreign tech platforms over content and data storage. The dispute escalated further, expecially after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Meanwhile, critics argued that Russia is trying to expand its control over the countrys internet space. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The restrictions were imposed a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin authorised the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services. Kremlin maintained that Moscow is seeking to establish what it calls digital sovereignty by promoting homegrown services and reducing its dependence on foreign-owned platforms. In order to counteract criminals measures are being taken to partially restrict calls on these foreign messengers, Russian news outlet Interfax quoted the communications regulator Roskomnadzor as saying. No other restrictions have been imposed on their functionality. Meanwhile, the Russian digital ministry said, Access to calls in foreign messengers will be restored after they start complying with Russian legislation. Meta & Telegram react In a statement over the matter, WhatsApps owner, Meta, said: WhatsApp is private, end-to-end encrypted, and defies government attempts to violate peoples right to secure communication, which is why Russia is trying to block it from over 100 million Russian people. We will keep doing all we can to make end-to-end encrypted communication available to people everywhere, including in Russia. Meanwhile, Telegram said it is actively combats misuse of its platform, including calls for sabotage or violence, as well as fraud and removes millions of pieces of harmful content every day. According to Reuters, voice calls on Telegram had barely functioned since 11 August, and WhatsApp calls had been rendered impossible due to intermittent sound and a metallic buzzing. Meanwhile, Russias digital development ministry said Telegram and WhatsApp had ignored repeated requests to take measures to stop their platforms from being used for activities such as fraud and terrorism. Anton Gorelkin, deputy head of the lower house of parliaments information technology committee, noted that the platforms would need to open legal entities in Russia and cooperate with Roskomnadzor and law enforcement as part of their compliance with Russian law. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They noted that once both platforms comply with the authorities, Russia would lift the blocking measures. Back in 2022, Meta was labelled as an extremist organisation by Russia. However, WhatsApp was widely used in Russia and was allowed to operate in the country without restrictions. After the Ukraine war started, the messenger received some penalties for failing to remove information banned by Russia. Critics have voiced concerns that Russias new state-backed messaging app may track its users activities and have suggested Russia could slow WhatsApps speeds in order to get users to migrate to the new platform. With inputs from Reuters. Ahead of US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putins meeting in Alaska, Russia and Ukraine exchanged lethal strikes, reflecting that the Russia-Ukraine war is still raging on. Ahead of US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putins meeting in Alaska, Russia and Ukraine exchanged lethal strikes, reflecting that the Russia-Ukraine war is still raging on. Russian authorities said on Thursday that fallen debris from Ukrainian drones caused a fire at an oil refinery in Volgograd. Firefighters quickly began extinguishing the fire. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties, Andrey Bocharov said on Telegram. The refinery belonged to Lukoil, which has yet to respond to the matter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The news of the damage came shortly after Russias defence ministry said air defence systems had intercepted and destroyed 44 Ukrainian drones overnight, including nine over the Volgograd region. Ukraines missile plants take hits in July Meanwhile, Russias defence ministry said on Thursday that its forces struck several Ukrainian missile plants, weapons design bureaus and rocket fuel production enterprises with missiles and drones last month. The Russian forces destroyed several Western missile defence systems - including Patriot launchers and fire control radar in the Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy regions - that had been deployed to defend the plants, the ministry said. An attempt by the Kyiv regime, together with its Western partners, to organise the production of missiles to carry out attacks deep into the territory of the Russian Federation was thwarted, the ministry said. The reports of these strikes are coming at a time when Trump will be meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine. While Trump assured that he would bring the conflict to an end, Ukrainians and many European leaders raised concerns over the exclusion of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy from the talks. Hence, it remains unclear if the Alaska summit would be fruitful or not. With inputs from Reuters. As world leaders line up to nominate US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, former US NSA John Bolton joked that India should hand over two nominations to Trump for better ties As countries line up to nominate US President Donald Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize, his former National Security Advisor John Bolton jokes about India offering Trump two such nominations for better ties. While speaking to Firstposts Bhagyasree Sengupta, Bolton said Trumps sudden courting of Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir and his tariff tirade against India have nothing to do with strategic rethinking. He maintained that the apparent change in the American leader's stance on India and Pakistan revolves around his dream to win a Nobel. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Soon after the India-Pakistan military confrontation, Munir met President Trump in the White House. He is currently in the US attending the farewell ceremony of the Centcom chief. Munir eventually used American soil to deliver nuclear threats to India. During Trumps first term, we saw events like Howdy Modi and Namaste Trump. So what changed? Bolton said it is all about a Nobel Peace Prize nomination. I dont think this is any strategic rethinking by Trump because he doesnt do strategic rethinking. One thing Munir did was to offer to nominate him for a Nobel Peace Prize, which has become an obsession with Trump, Bolton told Firstpost on Tuesday. Its part of a strategy of flattery, which often works with Trump as well. So my suggestion to Prime Minister Modi is that when he talks to Trump next, he should offer to nominate him twice for a Nobel Peace Prize and to keep nominating him until he gets it. Maybe thatll help, he joked. How Pakistan seeks brownie points with Nobel nomination Soon after Operation Sindoor, Pakistan rushed to deliver a nomination for a Nobel Peace Prize to Trump. It was one of the first countries to take that initiative after Trump returned to the White House. With this, Pakistan attempted to reaffirm Trumps claim that he was the one who brokered a ceasefire deal following a four-day military escalation between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, India maintained that the ceasefire between the two nations was a bilateral decision and no third party was involved; many believe that New Delhis rejection of Trumps assertion might have also contributed to Trumps latest ire against India. Pakistan, on the other hand, was also not earnest with its Nobel nomination. Because right after it nominated Trump for the prestigious award, Islamabad slammed his administration for supporting Israel in the war against Hamas. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In a Firstpost interview, Ambassador Bolton maintains that he is not thinking much about US-Pakistan ties. I wouldnt conclude a closer Pakistani-US relationship, although frankly I think its in the interest of everybody to see Pakistan retain a democratic government and not be under the military, he said. But Trump doesnt understand Pakistan at all. Hes been speaking in the past few weeks about the significant development of Pakistans oil reserves, which comes as a complete surprise to people in Pakistan. Its just typical of Trump. He lives in many senses in a world of his own, a world he has created. Im afraid because he does not think very much about what happens outside his world, he doesnt see the ramifications sometimes of what he says," he explained. Other nations attempt to flatter Trump However, it is important to note that Pakistan is not the only country which has nominated Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize. The trend started with Pakistan, followed by Israel and Cambodia. After Trumps peace summit bringing together the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan on August 8 and ending decades of conflict, the heads of the two former Soviet Union states promised to write a joint nomination to the Nobel Peace Committee. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump has long coveted the honour, and in the past, his friends, including lawmakers, have nominated him for the honour numerous times. However, in the past, Trump often mocked former President Barack Obama, who won the award in 2009, one year into his first term, saying he didnt know what the hell he got it for. Hence, it would now be interesting to see if Norway would pay any heed to these nominations. Several countries including Israel, Pakistan and Cambodia have nominated Trump for brokering peace agreements or ceasefires, and he has said he deserves the Norwegian-bestowed accolade that four White House predecessors received. This is an AI generated image for representational purpose. US President Donald Trump called Norways Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg unexpectedly last month, raising both trade tariffs and his ambition to secure the Nobel Peace Prize. The conversation, first reported by Norwegian daily Dagens Nringsliv on Thursday, was later confirmed to POLITICO by a government official in Oslo. According to the paper, it was not the first occasion on which Trump had brought up the prize in talks with Stoltenberg. Trump, who has been nominated by countries including Israel, Pakistan and Cambodia for mediating peace deals or ceasefires, has earlier said he deserves the Norwegian-awarded honour, which has gone to four former US presidents. Out of the blue, while Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called, Dagens Naeringsliv reported, citing unnamed sources. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He wanted the Nobel Prize and to discuss tariffs. With hundreds of candidates nominated each year, laureates are chosen by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, whose five members are appointed by Norways parliament according to the will of Swedish 19th century industrialist Alfred Nobel. The announcement comes in October in Oslo. The Norwegian newspaper said it was not the first time Trump had brought up the prize in conversation with Stoltenberg, a former secretary general of the NATO military alliance. It quoted Stoltenberg as saying the call was to discuss trade tariffs and economic cooperation ahead of Trumps call with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Stoere. Asked if Trump made the Nobel prize an issue, Stoltenberg said: I will not go further into the content of the conversation. Several White House officials, including US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were on the call, Stoltenberg said. The White House on July 31 announced a 15% tariff on imports from Norway, the same as the European Union. Stoltenberg said on Wednesday that Norway and the United States were still in talks regarding the tariffs. With inputs from agencies Indian-origin MAGA venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani has listed five things Donald Trump wants from India, saying the US President feels hurt and humiliated after the ceasefire row and could lower tariffs if ties improve. Indian-origin venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani has said that US President Donald Trump is hurt, humiliated and shocked after feeling insulted by a close ally over what she described as the ceasefire fiasco. In a series of posts on social media platform X, Motwani, who has publicly aligned herself with the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, urged India to extend warmth towards Trump to help mend ties, saying this could pave the way for a reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Will Trump reduce the tariffs on India? Yes! But this is dependent on how fast we melt him, she wrote, adding that India should project itself as a peacebuilder between Russia and Ukraine and engage in proactive public relations in the West. She also suggested that major Indian business houses could announce investment commitments in the US ahead of Trumps expected visit for the Quad summit. Will trump reduce the tariffs on India? Yes! But this is dependent on how FAST we melt him. He is hurt, humiliated and shocked that his best friend insulted him in public on the ceasefire fiasco (justified or not). He will come around, but SHOW him the warmth that we genuinely Asha Jadeja Motwani (@ashajadeja325) August 13, 2025 In another post, Motwani claimed to know what Trump wants from India, and listed five expectations: A massive investment pledge from Indias top business houses, ranging from $100 billion to $500 billion, in the US economy. Closure of deals for the purchase of Stryker and Javelin defence systems. Increased energy imports from the US and reduced dependence on Russian crude. Public thanks to Trump for his behind-the-scenes work on controlling Chinese military equipment and support in Pakistan. More overt friendliness towards Trump, with Indians being more expressive to show their affection. Below is a list of things Trump wants from India. How do i know? It is up to you to guess. But before I list them, kudos to the Indians for moving in the right direction fast.. the announcement backing the Trump Putin talks is a great first step along with Modis conversation Asha Jadeja Motwani (@ashajadeja325) August 13, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Motwani said these steps, along with niceness and agility, could help bring US tariffs on Indian goods down to closer to 20%. Ending her posts with Jai Hind and blessings for both nations, she stressed: Be nice to Trump. He knows we love him, but we must show it more actively. In another post, Motwani listed what she claimed were Trumps key expectations from India including a massive investment pledge from Indian conglomerates worth $100 billion to $500 billion in the US, closing deals on Stryker and Javelin defence systems, increasing US energy purchases, reducing reliance on Russian crude, and openly thanking Trump for behind-the-scenes support on China and Pakistan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD She emphasised that being nice to Trump and expressing affection more actively was essential. American culture is different from India. Be more expressive, she said, ending her posts with Jai Hind and blessings for both nations. President Trump earlier this month slapped 25 per cent additional tariff on India over the purchase of Russian oil. With this 25 per cent tariff, India will face at least 50 per cent tariffs among the highest in the world. This 25 per cent tariff over the purchase of Russian oil is on top of the 25 per cent tariff that Trump had previously imposed on India on July 31 as part of the broader rollout of tariffs on more than 60 countries. The deployment will continue until Trump determines that order has been restored. Unlike in most states, Washingtons National Guard operates under direct presidential authority, removing the need for formal federalisation National Guard troops reinforce the security zone on Capitol Hill in Washington. File image/AP President Donald Trump has ordered the complete mobilisation of 800 National Guard troops to Washington, DC, as part of what he describes as a drive to restore law and order in the US capital. The Pentagon confirmed on Thursday (August 14) that all Army and Air National Guardsmen assigned to Joint Task Force DC are now operational. Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson said the troops will support the Metropolitan Police Department and federal agencies by securing monuments, patrolling communities, protecting federal facilities and managing traffic control points. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The deployment will continue until Trump determines that order has been restored. Unlike in most states, Washingtons National Guard operates under direct presidential authority, removing the need for formal federalisation. Political context and crime statistics Trumps decision also includes a federal takeover of Washingtons police department, part of a broader Republican narrative that the Democratic-led city is plagued by crime and mismanagement. Official data from Washington police, however, shows violent crime has declined in 2024 compared with last year, following a spike in the immediate post-pandemic period. The deployment follows Trumps recent use of National Guard and Marine units in Los Angeles to quell unrest triggered by immigration enforcement raids, marking the first time since 1965 that a president has sent the Guard into a state over a governors objections. I believe now hes convinced that hes going to make a deal. Hes going to make a deal. I think hes going to. And were going to find out Im going to know very quickly," said Trump in an interview on Fox News radio US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin talk during the family photo session at the APEC Summit in Danang, Vietnam November 11, 2017. Reuters File US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is approaching Fridays summit in Alaska with the intention of striking a deal and that threats of sanctions against Moscow probably played a role in Moscow seeking a meeting. Trump is scheduled to meet with Putin in Alaska on Friday. The US president said he is unsure whether an immediate ceasefire can be achieved but expressed interest in brokering a peace agreement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In an interview on Fox News radio on Thursday, Trump said, I believe now hes convinced that hes going to make a deal. Hes going to make a deal. I think hes going to. And were going to find out Im going to know very quickly." President Trump maintained high expectations for his upcoming summit with President Putin, despite White House officials earlier this week downplaying the session as merely a listening exercise. Trump said that his broader goal is to move toward a three-way meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, noting that three different locations are under consideration including the option of staying in Alaska. However, Trump added a clear condition: President Donald Trump maintained high expectations for his upcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite White House officials earlier this week downplaying the session as merely a listening exercise. Trump indicated that his broader goal is to move toward a three-way meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, noting that three different locations are under consideration including the option of staying in Alaska. However, Trump added a clear condition: If its a bad meeting, Im not calling anybody Im going home. But if its a good meeting, Im going to call President Zelenskyy and the European leaders. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When asked whether he would offer economic incentives to Russia, President Trump declined to give specifics. Well, Id rather not say because I dont want to play my hand in public, but whatever my hand is, economic incentives and disincentives maybe are more important, in a way, but incentives economically, you know, he said. Trump is scheduled to meet with Putin in Alaska on Friday. The US president, however, said he is unsure whether an immediate ceasefire can be achieved but expressed interest in brokering a peace agreement. Earlier in the day, Putin said that the United States was making sincere efforts to end the war in Ukraine and suggested that Moscow and Washington could agree on a nuclear arms deal as part of a broader push to strengthen peace. United States is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict," said Putin. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This was happening, Putin said, in order to create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole - if, by the next stages, we reach agreements in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons. Putins remarks signalled that Russia will raise the issue of nuclear arms control as part of a wide-ranging discussion on security when he sits down with Trump for the first Russia-US summit since June 2021. With inputs from agencies Israel appears poised to grant formal planning approval for the long-stalled E1 settlement project a highly contentious plan to build over 3,400 housing units in the occupied West Bank, according to a report UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy condemned Israels settlement plans that would sever the West Bank from East Jerusalem, calling them a clear violation of international law and urging their immediate halt. The UK strongly opposes the Israeli governments E1 settlement plans, which would divide a future Palestinian state in two and mark a flagrant breach of international law. The plans must be stopped now, Reuters quoted Lammy as saying in an emailed statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Israel appears poised to grant formal planning approval for the long-stalled E1 settlement project a highly contentious plan to build over 3,400 housing units in the occupied West Bank. According to The Guardian report, citing critics, the development would effectively bisect the territory, deepen the separation between East Jerusalem and the West Bank, and deal a fatal blow to hopes for a viable Palestinian state. The Supreme Planning Council is expected to move forward with the plan next week, having reportedly dismissed objections from several Israeli NGOs. The E1 project, which would link the Maale Adumim settlement to Jerusalem, has faced decades of international opposition, including from the UK, EU, and United Nations. Its advancement comes as far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who also holds authority over planning in the occupied territories, openly championed the move, declaring that E1s approval would bury the idea of a Palestinian state. Smotrich sanctioned by the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand in June for inciting violence claimed the project had the backing of both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, though neither has publicly confirmed this. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD According to The Guardian, while Smotrich stood at the site of the proposed construction on Thursday, the US State Department avoided commenting directly on the plan when asked, and Netanyahu has remained silent on the matter. With inputs from agencies A large police presence has been reported on Hampstead Drive, with several helicopters deployed to the area. Local traffic alert pages indicate that multiple officers may have been shot Law enforcement services assemble in response to an active shooting situation in Gretna, Va., Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. AP Several police officers have been shot in southern Virginias Pittsylvania County in the US, with law enforcement officials launching a massive response to the shooting. A large police presence has been reported on Hampstead Drive, with several helicopters deployed to the area. Local traffic alert pages indicate that multiple officers may have been shot. According to a report by The Associated Press, three sheriffs deputies were shot at while executing warrants for brandishing a firearm and trespassing in southern Virginia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pittsylvania County Sheriff Michael W. Taylor has said that the police officers are doing okay after an hours-long standoff that ended peacefully, with the suspected shooter now in custody. All three are well. Of course theyre shaken up. And theyre going through the process now of trying to heal, Taylor said, adding: Theyre OK. Photos and video from the scene showed a large number of parked police and emergency response vehicles. U.S. Rep. John McGuire, who represents Virginias 5th congressional district, had earlier said in a post on X that his thoughts and prayers were with deputies and their families. We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time, McGuire wrote. With inputs from agencies Podul made its second landfall in Fujian provinces Zhangpu County, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said, citing the provincial meteorological observatory, reporting maximum sustained winds of 108 kilometres (67 miles) per hour. A man uses an umbrella to shelter from the heavy rain brought by Typhoon Podul in Kaohsiung on August 13, 2025. AFP Typhoon Podul weakened to a severe tropical storm when it roared ashore in southeastern China early Thursday, state media said, after carving a path across Taiwan, shutting down businesses, grounding flights and knocking out power to thousands of homes. Podul made its second landfall in Fujian provinces Zhangpu County, Chinese state news agency Xinhua said, citing the provincial meteorological observatory, reporting maximum sustained winds of 108 kilometres (67 miles) per hour. On Wednesday, wind gusts of up to 178 kilometres per hour were recorded shortly before the typhoon slammed into Taiwans Taitung County, the countrys Central Weather Administration (CWA) said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD One person is missing after he went fishing and was swept away, and 112 have been injured, disaster officials said. More than 8,000 people were evacuated from their homes. As Podul swept across storm-battered central and southern areas of Taiwan, it toppled dozens of trees and triggered flooding. Streets in the port city of Kaohsiung were littered with fallen branches. Kaohsiung, Tainan and Chiayi will become major rainfall hotspots tonight, with increasing rain also expected in Penghu and Kinmen, CWA Administrator Lu Kuo-chen told a briefing attended by President Lai Ching-te. Flights scrapped, schools shut All domestic flights across the island of 23 million people were cancelled on Wednesday, along with dozens of international journeys. More than 63,000 households were still without power. High-speed rail services on the west coast were reduced, while train services in the southeast were cancelled. Many ferry services were also suspended, and businesses and schools across the south closed. More than 31,500 soldiers were ready to assist in rescue and relief efforts, disaster officials said. The CWA said mountain areas in Kaohsiung and Tainan could be hit with a cumulative 400-600 millimetres (16-24 inches) of rain from Tuesday to Thursday. In mainland China, some schools in Guangdong paused classes while train and ferry services have been temporarily halted, China state broadcaster CCTV said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Parts of other provinces such as Hunan and Jiangxi in central China will also see heavy to torrential rain, CCTV added. Intense weather Podul comes after weeks of intense weather in central and southern Taiwan, which is accustomed to frequent tropical storms from July to October. Typhoon Danas, which hit Taiwan in early July, killed two people and injured hundreds as the storm dumped more than 500 mm of rain across the south over a weekend. That was followed by torrential rain from July 28 to August 4 that left at least five people dead, with some areas recording more than Taiwans total rainfall of 2.1 metres in all of 2024. Natural disasters are common across China, particularly in the summer, when some regions experience heavy rain while others bake in searing heat. The death toll from flash floods and mudslides in northwest China last week has risen to 13, state media said on Saturday. Heavy rain in Beijing in the north also killed 44 people last month, with the capitals rural suburbs hardest hit and another eight people killed in a landslide in nearby Hebei province. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Scientists have shown that human-driven climate change is causing more intense weather patterns that can make destructive floods more likely. Global warming, driven largely by the burning of fossil fuels, is not just about rising temperatures, but the knock-on effect of all the extra heat in the atmosphere and seas. Warmer air can hold more water vapour, and warmer oceans mean greater evaporation, resulting in more intense downpours and storms. Google has introduced new features in the Gemini app to enhance user experience with personalized interactions and flexible chat options. The updates include the ability to reference past conversations and a new Temporary Chats feature. Personalized Responses Using Past Chats Siliski noted that Gemini can leverage past conversations to deliver more relevant and fluid responses. When the Personal context setting is enabled, Gemini remembers key details and preferences youve shared, making interactions feel like talking to a partner who already knows your interests. Examples of Personalized Context: Birthday Ideas: If youve talked about favorite comic book characters, Gemini could suggest a themed party, including matching food and a photo booth with props. Book Suggestions: Based on past requests for non-fiction summaries, Gemini may recommend similar titles and provide quotes suitable for social posts. Video Ideas: For YouTube creators focused on Japanese culture, Gemini might suggest filming experiences like trying traditional foods, crafts, or games. This feature is enabled by default, but users can adjust it under Settings Personal context Your past chats with Gemini, and manage or delete conversations through Gemini Apps Activity. Temporary Chats for Private Conversations Gemini now supports Temporary Chats, ideal for quick interactions without affecting future personalized responses. Temporary Chats: Hidden from activity logs and recent chat history Excluded from training or personalizing Google AI Retained for 72 hours to respond to messages and feedback Michael Siliski, Senior Director of Product Management for Gemini, noted that this feature is perfect for private questions or brainstorming outside your usual style. Enhanced Data Controls Google is also updating how user data is handled: Keep Activity: Previously called Gemini Apps Activity, this option lets Google use a portion of your uploaded files and photos to enhance its services, and you can disable it whenever you like. Media Sharing Controls: Users can decide whether audio, video, or screens shared through Gemini or Gemini Live contribute to improving Google services. This setting is off by default. Availability Personalized responses: Rolling out over the coming weeks for Gemini 2.5 Pro in select countries, with plans to expand to Gemini 2.5 Flash and more regions. Temporary Chats: Starting today and gradually expanding to all users over the coming weeks. Michael Siliski, Senior Director of Product Management for Gemini, said these updates make Gemini more personal, proactive, and flexible, letting users create the experience thats right for them and make privacy choices that fit their needs. XRF was founded fourteen years ago on four main pillars: To build the strongest, longest-lived parts in the industry To engineer a part that is quick and easy to install correctly To design a part that is very pleasing to the eye and instills customer confidence To price these New World Benchmark parts so that everyone can afford quality and safety With this foundation, we set out to bring these parts to you with unsurpassed customer service, including same day shipping and ONLINE ORDERING. Mission Statement To be the most cost-effective chassis supplier. Exceed excellence on Safety, Durability and Reliability. To help develop, innovate and facilitate the industry. Follow or surpass OE Strengths and Durability. Vision Statement The new industry benchmark, by achieving the goal of one stop shop for all chassis solution and vertically Integrated Manufacture in the North American market. To build the strongest, longest-lived parts in the industry Follow or surpass OE Strengths and Durability. To engineer a part that is quick and easy to install correctly n/a To design a part that is very pleasing to the eye and instills customer confidence n/a To price these New World Benchmark parts so that everyone can afford quality and safety To be the most cost-effective chassis supplier. Yeah maybe I can find some parts from before the sale.Going to detail this a little more so people can see that I'm not just spouting hot air, and maybe someone can shed some light on it. I've also had my coffee now so I have a few more IQ points to work with.So there are actually now three XRF Chassis websites.This one seems to have been created sometime around 2005 or so. Copy reads like it was written by an American high school graduate around that time. Featured video on the site is a YouTube video from 13 years ago."USA International" - a bizarre contradiction in terms that already has my alarm bells ringing. First off we see "offer high quality products" on the front page - a sentence fragment that can only mean one thing. The "About Us" page is even worse. "Who we are?", a statement with a question mark appended, is the heading. The copy, also badly written with various turns of phrase unique to the East Asian crowd, reveals that their manufacturing is in Taiwan.Why do they need two websites? Not sure. Miscommunication or someone thought "two website better than one!"Let's take a gander at the Engrish sprinkled throughout this site:"Every part is guaranteed fit your vehicle perfectly""Vision Statement: The new industry benchmark, by achieving the goal of one stop shop for all chassis solution and vertically Integrated Manufacture in the North American market.""We learn from Steering system dynamics and re-engineer for improvements.""All XRF products are engineered for installers convenience, prioritize on saving labor and costs.""Saturday, Sunday and public holiday are excluded"Some of the stuff on the site reads at a much higher level of fluency than the rest, and was therefore probably copied from old materials.My guess is they sold out to a Taiwanese company.Let's take a look at the difference between the old mission statement and the new one.Let's draw out the relevant concepts and compare them side by side.Interesting comparison. The old one is an aspiration to be the best, comparing to the rest of the industry rather than "OE". The new one is a generic and meaningless claim oft-repeated in the description section of AutoZone house brand parts.This doesn't seem to be on the minds of the new owners.Again, not something the new owners care about, apparently.Another move from a spirit of prioritizing quality (while not forgetting about cost) to prioritizing cost above all else. "THE most cost effective" really means something when there's a Chinese factory churning out the crappiest tie rods possible for AutoZone to sell for $39.99. As usual, we see the accepted Chinese (and Taiwanese) wisdom here that there's always a huge market in America for the cheapest possible product regardless of quality.The new mission (and "vision"!) statement has some more things in it that the old one does not.Okay. Not much to say about this. "Exceed excellence". Sure.Oh yeah, I'm sure you're really developing, innovating, and facilitating "the industry" by holing yourselves up in your factory and churning out cheaper versions of American designed parts.Spare me.This sort of thing is not usually a priority for people who really care about the products they design. People like that tend to understand that they have to pick their battles if they don't want to sacrifice the quality of their entire lineup, so they don't tend to create lofty goals for themselves like "we're going to sell every chassis part ever made!" - although this new "vision" is really a fake "goal" intended to draw people in for a sale rather than something they actually want to do. Iti doresti o presa libera si independenta, care nu da inapoi cand vine vorba de respectarea standardelor profesionale, refuza sa se lase cenzurata, sustine independenta justitiei, transparenta decizionala si valorile democratice. Alege sa o sustii. The five men deported from the United States were flown into Eswatini's administrative capital of Mbabane in mid-July aboard a US military plane DNI Clapper to NSA Director Rogers: "That's OUR story, and we're stickin' to it" FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ODNI News Release No. 22-25 August 13, 2025 Stunning admission that manufacturing intelligence is a "team sport" requiring "compromise on our 'normal modalities'" WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard declassified a Top Secret email from then-DNI James Clapper exposing his efforts to suppress concerns raised by then-National Security Agency (NSA) Director Mike Rogers regarding the politicized January 2017 Intelligence Community Assessment (ICA) that President Obama ordered. On December 22, 2016, Rogers wrote an email to Clapper, then-FBI Director James Comey, and then CIA Director John Brennan expressing serious concerns over the NSA's lack of "sufficient access," warning that NSA personnel "aren't fully comfortable saying that they have had enough time to review all of the intelligence to be absolutely confident in their assessments." Clapper responded, "We may have to compromise on our 'normal' modalities" and "more time is not negotiable." "The leading figures in the Russia Hoax have spent years deceiving the American public by presenting their manufactured and politicized assessments as credible intelligence. The email released today reinforces what we already exposed: the decision to compromise standards and violate protocols in the creation of the 2017 manufactured intelligence assessment was deliberate and came from the very top," said DNI Gabbard. "Clapper's own words confirm that complying with the order to manufacture intelligence was a 'team sport.'" Clapper's response to Rogers came just hours before the authors of the ICA were set to deliver the initial draft of the politicized ICA to Intelligence Community leaders. You can view the declassified emails here. Read more about the Russia Hoax in ODNI's previous releases on July 18, July 23, and July 30. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Estonia is expelling a member of the staff of the Russian embassy Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13.08.2025 | 11:17 Today 13 August, the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the charge d'affaires of the Russian embassy to present a diplomatic note on declaring the First Secretary of the Russian embassy's staff persona non grata. The diplomat must leave Estonia. Presenting the note, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the representative of the Russian embassy that Estonia does not intend to tolerate Russia's activities against our constitutional order and internal stability, and considers it necessary to express this very clearly. Estonia will also inform its partners and allies of the incident. Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the expulsion of a member of the staff of the Russian embassy: "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. At present, one citizen of the Republic of Estonia has been convicted for carrying out these crimes. The Russian embassy's 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 organized by a foreign state on its territory." Estonia's action is in accordance with Article 9 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations which states 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 of the mission is persona non grata. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 12 August 2025 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. All right, good afternoon. ** Guest Today, our guest will be Ulrika Richardson, the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Haiti. She will be here to join us in person in just a few minutes. ** UN General Assembly High-level Week 2025 Also, a couple of GA related reminders. For those of you who have colleagues who need to be accredited, the accreditation process, if I am not mistaken, ends, closes at the end of this month. So encourage all of your colleagues who may come visit you during the GA to make sure that they file all their passes requests. Also, our friends at in the Department of Global Communications have just set up a webpage for the High-level Week 2025. It is now live at https://www.un.org/en/high-level-week-2025. It is a very useful repository for information on the main events during the High-Level Week, which will take from 22-30 September. The links and pages will be updated as more information on times, venues, becomes available. ** Occupied Palestinian Territory Now, turning to the situation in Gaza. Our colleagues at the World Food Programme warned today that starvation and malnutrition are at the highest levels in Gaza since the conflict began in October 2023. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported to our colleagues on the ground 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. And again, those numbers are since October 2023. Against this backdrop, humanitarian supplies entering Gaza remain far below the minimum required to meet people's immense needs. We and our humanitarian partners continue to do everything possible to bring assistance into Gaza. However, humanitarian movements still face significant delays and other impediments that prevent us from delivering aid at the scale that is needed. Just to put you in the picture on what our colleagues go through at the crossing points: yesterday, on Monday, we requested to coordinate with the Israeli authorities 16 missions, 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 and within the southern part of Gaza. Out of the 16 missions, four were facilitated and three were denied; another four were impeded but eventually were fully accomplished. Of the remaining five missions, two were cancelled by the respective organizations; another two missions that involved collection of food and health supplies from Kerem Shalom were impeded and unable to be completed, while another one 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. I think that our colleagues from the World Food Programme described the hours and hours that their colleagues had to spend in cars waiting for those clearances. In the West Bank, our OCHA colleagues tell us that yesterday, another Palestinian Bedouin community 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 a lot of the evacuated residents have no alternative shelter. ** Sudan Turning to Sudan, another tragic situation unfolding before our own very eyes, and I call tell you that we are deeply alarmed by reports of a large-scale attack yesterday on the El Fasher area, which as you know, is the besieged capital of North Darfur State. That also affected the adjoining Abu Shouk displacement camp. The attack has been attributed by local sources to fighters from the Rapid Support Forces. According to them at least 40 civilians have been killed within Abu Shouk, and another 19 injured. In a statement released a short while ago, our Acting Humanitarian Coordinator for Sudan, Sheldon Yett, said he unequivocally condemns all deliberate and indiscriminate attacks on civilians in the country. All parties to conflict have a clear obligation under international humanitarian law to ensure the protection of civilians. 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 into itself. 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. That's what the International Organization for Migration is telling us. 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 Secretary-General's repeated calls for a humanitarian pause in and around the city to allow for the delivery of food, delivery of water, delivery of medicine and other life-saving supplies that are so desperately needed. Those that are trapped in those areas are facing acute hunger and starvation. Meanwhile, we also remain concerned about the situation and the violence in the Kordofan region. In South Kordofan State, the International Organization for Migration estimates that more than 3,000 people fled Kadugli town between August 6th and August 10th 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 the already dire economic conditions and is leading to even more shortages of vital goods. Our humanitarian colleagues raise their voices yet again in reminding 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 Back here, the Security Council held an open session on Yemen this morning. Speaking via videoconference from Amman, in Jordan, our Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg reaffirmed that his Office remains focused on supporting de-escalation on the frontlines, establishing a path for talks between the parties and the continued work with the region and the international community to support Yemen. He called again for the unconditional and immediate release of 23 of our colleagues that as you remember, are arbitrarily detained by the Houthis, alongside others from national and international NGOs and well as diplomatic missions. For his part, Ramesh Rajasingham, OCHA's Director of the Coordination Division, told the Council that more than 17 million people, that's nearly half of the population of Yemen, are estimated to be acutely hungry 17 million people. Over 2 million children under the age of five suffer from malnutrition. He added that the Yemen Humanitarian Fund will be releasing $20 million to address the negative impacts of continuing food insecurity in Yemen. This funding will be focused on reaching those who are most suffering. ** Myanmar Our World Food Programme colleagues are urgently calling for more humanitarian support in Rakhine State, where a deadly combination of conflict, blockades, and funding cuts is driving a dramatic rise in hunger and malnutrition. WFP notes that in central Rakhine, the number of families not able to afford to meet basic food needs has reached 57 per cent, up from 33 per cent in December of last year. Despite dwindling resources, WFP is working to resume limited lifesaving support in the worst-hit areas. WFP requires $30 million to assist 270,000 people in Rakhine State for the next six months. ** Colombia As you have seen, yesterday afternoon we issued a statement on which the Secretary-General said he was deeply saddened by the passing of Senator [Miguel] Uribe [Turbay] in Colombia and sends his condolences to his family. That statement was shared with you. ** Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change Also today is International Youth Day. On this Day, the Secretary-General has a message for the young people everywhere, which is that their voice and ideas matter. And on this International Youth Day, he also has appointed the third cohort of his Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. For this third cohort, the Secretary-General is expanding the Group from seven to fourteen members. This is in response to the concerning global trend of shrinking civic space and funding limitations that are putting young activists at risk and hindering meaningful youth engagement in climate meetings and efforts. The Group, which includes representatives, ages 17-28, from all regions across the world, with a variety of identities, experiences, perspectives, and expertise. The Group will provide the Secretary-General with practical and outcome-focused advice, diverse youth perspectives and concrete recommendations to support our work and to accelerate global action to tackle the climate crisis. ** Questions and Answers Spokesman : Edie. Question : Thank you. Steph, Israel's UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, has accused the Secretary-General of making baseless accusations about possible sexual violence by Israeli forces in prisons, detention facility, and a military base. Does the Secretary-General have any response? Spokesman : I think the Secretary-General's response is in the letter the Secretary-General sent to Ambassador Danon, which was very helpfully posted on X for all of you to read. This is in run up to the publication of the Secretary-General's annual report on sexual violence in conflict, which is being shared with the Security Council and which will be published... which we'll make public I think, later this week. This is based on the work of the office of Pramila Patten [the Secretary-General's Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict]. Dezhi. Question : Yes. The Israeli media reported that the Gaza Health Ministry's number about the starvation is misleading. How much does the UN trust this figure? Spokesman : First of all, a lot of the data on hunger comes from us, right, and from the World Food Programme, from its monitoring. We have found that in the past, and as you know, the UN has been in Gaza for quite some time and including, since the takeover of Gaza by Hamas, we have found the figures issued by the Ministry of Health in Gaza, the Palestinian Ministry of Health, to be, on the whole, reliable. Question : Okay. Second, it's a totally different topic. US President Trump is going to meet with the Russian President Putin this Friday in Alaska; any expectations from the Secretary-General, especially concerning the Ukrainian crisis? Thank you. Spokesman : We welcome the constructive dialogue between Member States with regards to Ukraine. We, of course, reiterate our urgent call for an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire as a first step towards a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace, one that upholds Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders and in line with the UN Charter, in line with international law and all relevant UN resolutions. We, of course, stand ready to support any efforts towards that end. Abdelhamid, please. Question : Thank you, Steph. Can you confirm there was a meeting between UN senior officials and officials of GHF and a leaked UN memo show senior officials discussing lowering rhetoric against GHF and working with this company, the GHF. Can you confirm that? Spokesman : Yes. I can confirm that at the invitation of the Permanent Mission of the United States to the UN, some UN entities and other partners attended a dialogue regarding the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza that took place on Wednesday last week. The Chairman of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation was there at the invitation of the United States. As for the email that has been reported on, we're not going to comment on leaked emails, but I think our position, and as we've said repeatedly, that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic, tragic, whatever word, and it's hard, sometimes to find the words that match the situation. It's teetering on the brink of famine. We welcome anyone raising their voices to urgently reach civilians in need in Gaza. And as we've said repeatedly, I said it, Tom Fletcher has said it and many others, that we already have a plan ready to go built on our humanitarian principles, which are neutrality, impartiality, independence, and humanity. That means that we go wherever the needs are the greatest, and we answer to civilians in needs, not to the warring parties. There is, as I've said before, there is enough work for everyone, but we will work with people who match our principles. Question : Can you disclose who attended the...? [cross-talk] Spokesman : No. I do not have that list. Question : You don't? Spokesman : No. Sinan. Question : Thank you, Steph. I have a question on Syria. USA special envoy for Syria, Mr. Tom Barrack today posted on X. He says that Syria will fully cooperate with the UN to investigate these crimes, including the horrific violence at the Sweida National Hospital. So I wonder if you have any information about this cooperation. Spokesman : Let me check and get back to you on that bit. Okay. Madame? Question : Merci, on the Youth Climate Advisory Group, can you confirm that they will or that they have already met with the Secretary-General? Spokesman : This cohort is yet to meet with them because they've just been appointed. But I can tell you from having been with the Secretary-General a number of COPs, he meets with them at minimum at every climate meeting. And those are very important meetings for him because the Secretary-General is a big listener. He listens to their voices. He gets ideas from them. He gets energy from them, and they're really a critical part of, I would say, his climate team. Question : Thank you. Spokesman : Yuya. Question : Thank you, Steph. My question is about ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. Cambodia sent a letter to SG about the violation of agreement by Thailand. Can you confirm it? And then could you give me a comment? Spokesman : I have not seen, such a letter, but I will check the mailbox and get back to you. Okay. Yes, please. Go in the back. Question : Good afternoon. About three weeks ago, the World Food Programme said it will suspend all of humanitarian operations in north-east Nigeria, without getting a funding of about $130 million by the 31st of July. So I want to ask, if it has suspended operation or if it was able to get the funding by July 31st. Spokesman : We can check with our World Food Programme colleagues, and we'll let you know. Pam, please. Question : Thanks, Steph. I wanted to follow-up on Dezhi's question earlier on Ukraine. What would you say the UN's role would be in Ukraine? Does the UN have a role to play? Obviously, it has in the General Assembly. It has in the Black Sea Grain Initiative. If there is any kind of peace talks. And, does Ukraine need to be at the table in terms of your view of these talks that are coming up on Friday? Spokesman : Obviously that's been something that's been in the news. I don't think, it doesn't... it's not clear whether anything has been decided one way or another. I would just say that this is not our summit, these are not our talks. But I would say as a matter of principle, it seems to me that in order to have a just and sustainable peace between two parties, it is helpful that all of the parties involved in the conflict be at the same table. On your first question, it's important to state that the UN remains extremely active in Ukraine. I mean, we talk a couple of times a week about our humanitarian work, our development work, our presence in Ukraine. What our role will be, you know, following an eventual deal. I think those are hypotheticals that I would not get into. But as I said, you know, we stand ready to support all meaningful efforts towards a just, sustainable peace based on all the parameters that I just read earlier and have read repeatedly. Question : I want to go back to my question yesterday. You said this crime against the journalists should be investigated. I asked you, you don't investigate a crime if the criminal is obvious. Wouldn't be appropriate to say that this is an extrajudicial killing, and it's a war crime. Why are you calling for investigation? Spokesman : You've asked the question yesterday. I answered it to the best of my abilities yesterday. Question : But did it happen? Spokesman : We can have a discussion, but I think you asked the question. I gave the answer, and we will get our guest. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Northern Strike Brings Electromagnetic Warfare to the Front Lines By 2nd Lt. Paige Bodine, Michigan National Guard August 13, 2025 CAMP GRAYLING, Mich. -- In modern warfare, battles are not only fought with rifles, tanks and artillery. Some of the most decisive victories are won across the electromagnetic spectrum. At Northern Strike, the National Guard's premier readiness exercise held this month at Michigan's National All-Domain Warfighting Center, Soldiers trained in a high-intensity environment that pushed the limits of electromagnetic warfare, or EW. It tested their skills in realistic combat scenarios. In classrooms, electromagnetic warfare specialists often train to disrupt, or "jam," enemy communications, intercept signals and scan for threats. Jamming works by overpowering or confusing an enemy's radio or data transmissions, preventing them from communicating or coordinating effectively. Last year at Northern Strike, the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, or IBCT, launched a pilot program that sent a mobile EW team into the field to disrupt the communication systems of units in training. This year, the EW teams were embedded in infantry squads to create a more realistic, complex environment for Soldiers. "This is a rare training opportunity in the National Guard and in the Army as a whole," said Spc. Robert Bowley, an Electromagnetic Warfare specialist in the 37th IBCT from Columbus, Ohio. "To train with the equipment, you need the funding, and Northern Strike allows for that." Bowley was equipped with the Beast+ system, a handheld multi-channel receiver and transmitter designed for Army EW operations. The system scans the electromagnetic spectrum to detect enemy signals, identify spoofing or jamming threats and enhance battlefield awareness. "The antenna gives you a general direction and signal strength. I can see anything on the [radio frequency] spectrum," Bowley said. "We also have a power amplifier that lets us jam communication systems." Bowley, who also participated in the exercise in 2024, said he acted as "an early warning system. I will be giving the direction of the opposing force and jamming their comms." The mission brought together electromagnetic service members from the 37th IBCT, the Royal Irish Regiment and the Latvian National Armed Forces. The teams combined their expertise by embedding an electromagnetic specialist with the Irish regiment and managing signal towers with the Latvian forces to carry out a complex, coordinated operation. "In my job, you are on the front lines. We are not cyber on computers, we are in the field," Bowley said. At 1800 hours, Browley and seven infantry soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, Royal Irish Regiment, British Army, stepped off to the Combined Arms Collective Training Facility, which simulates fighting in urban terrain. Once they arrived, the squad cleared the building and Bowley looked for the best place to set up the Beast+. "Ideally, it would be on top of a roof," he said. "But they have drone capabilities, so this [his location] was the next best thing. In the best case scenario you want to be high up and have nothing around you." While the Royal Irish Regiment placed obstacles around the building, Bowley found a dark corner with windows on both sides. "We will be defending from up here. With this spot, I have a window on both sides and am able to get the antenna outside. The main thing that is important is what is being said over the radio. When I see something on my screen, I will know the direction they're coming from," Bowley said. Bowley knew the long night ahead would test his focus. He monitored the electromagnetic spectrum for hours, watching for the slightest signal of an attack and standing ready to jam enemy communications. "I brought a lot of caffeine," he said, laughing. "We have the go-ahead to jam whatever. Usually, you have to really go through hoops. The problem with jamming is that it is risky. Turning off comms can do a lot. The things that I will be looking at jamming are important. Like when they call up nine-lines, or before an assault." Bowley's squad was on defense, which required members to stay alert the entire time. At 2200 hours, they experienced probing from a platoon-sized element testing their defenses. A drone tagged four simulated casualties. At 0300 hours, shouts echoed as infantry teams moved in to assault the objective. With their communications jammed, the attackers yelled to coordinate. "They realized we were jamming them and immediately got off their comms," Bowley said. Moments later, the opposing force stormed into the room and took down the defending squad in the exercise. Master Sgt. Jason Ross, the electromagnetic spectrum operations noncommissioned officer for the Army National Guard Information Advantage Division, said the exercise was a reminder of why electromagnetic warfare must be integrated into training. "Communications systems have changed rapidly in recent years and now evolve almost monthly," Ross said. "The threat has grown significantly. Thinking outside the box is critical, but it's not always an easy discussion to have." This scenario was unique because the communications cell was on the red team, creating an unpredictable training environment. "It is hard to duplicate what we are doing at Northern Strike. The approval for this type of training is tricky. The support that Michigan has given to this exercise is amazing," Gilly said. "The reality is when we train on a rifle range, a Soldier knows what to expect. That is not the case with electromagnetic warfare." Maj. Tucker Palmatier, a cyber electromagnetic warfare officer and Cyber Electromagnetic Activities officer in charge of the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, said training in electromagnetic warfare is challenging because of federal restrictions. "The FCC [Federal Communications Commission] law on jamming dates back to 1934, which makes it difficult to realistically train for today's technology-driven battlefield," Palmatier said."Our challenge is maximizing training opportunities without breaking laws or regulations so Soldiers know exactly what to expect when it matters most." Despite those hurdles, Palmatier said the operation was a success. "Our enemy was not anticipating electromagnetic warfare. We were able to degrade their communications, which left them unable to coordinate their attack, allowing a smaller force to successfully defend the position," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address South Carolina Guard, Colombian Medics Strengthen Life-Saving Skills at Exercise By Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine, Air Forces Southern August 13, 2025 PALANQUERO AIR BASE, Colombia -- Backed by a 13-year alliance through the Department of Defense National Guard Bureau State Partnership Program, South Carolina National Guard Airmen and Soldiers joined forces with Colombian medical personnel to strengthen critical battlefield response skills through Tactical Combat Casualty Care, or TCCC, and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear, or CBRN, training during exercise Relampago de los Andes 2025 a multinational exercise focused on enhancing interoperability and partnership. This year's focus on TCCC and CBRN response underscored the shared commitment to saving lives on the battlefield. Together, these efforts enhance combined readiness and build lasting trust between allied forces in the region. Kicking off the medical training, Senior Airman Angelica Gonzalez and Chief Master Sgt. Jamie Powell of the South Carolina Air National Guard's Civil Engineer Squadron led an engaging knowledge exchange with 19 Colombian Aerospace Force medics. The hands-on instruction honed response and recovery skills for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear incidents a critical focus after a recent real-world event in which 12 Colombian service members were accidentally exposed to organophosphate fertilizer. Master Sgt. Krystal Patterson and Senior Airman Carolina Castrejon-Escobar, bioenvironmental engineers with the South Carolina Air National Guard, demonstrated Mission Oriented Protective Posture procedures, walked participants through decontamination steps and facilitated hands-on training with protective equipment. Gonzalez taught the entire course in Spanish to ensure clarity and connection across languages. "This type of engagement is about more than proceduresit's about building trust and ensuring that our partners are prepared to protect themselves and others," Powell said. Later in the exercise, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Hunter Vaught, combat medic program manager for the South Carolina Army National Guard, led a TCCC training session with Colombian Aerospace Force medics and instructors from their aeromedical evacuation unit. Participants trained on tactical field care, airway management and trauma response techniques, including needle chest decompression and nasopharyngeal airway placement. The sessions provided Colombian instructors with a new perspective on combat care methods and introduced advanced equipment to enhance their capabilities. "Our Colombian counterparts are already experts in their field," Vaught said. "This training sharpens their skills and allows them to expand that knowledge even further as instructors." Vaught highlighted that this was the first time he had worked directly with Colombian instructors, calling it a strategic opportunity to deepen professional ties and open the door for future collaboration. Relampago de los Andes is a Colombian-led exercise designed to strengthen the enduring defense partnership between the United States and Colombia, now in its 13th year under the State Partnership Program. The collaboration between the South Carolina National Guard and the Colombian military continues to evolve through joint flying operations, maintenance exchanges, integrated medical training and support missions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Texas Army Guard Sharpens Battle Command in Warfighter Exercise By Sgt. 1st Class Melisa Washington, 36th Infantry Division August 13, 2025 CAMP ATTERBURY, Ind. -- The Texas Army National Guard's 36th Infantry Division wrapped up a high-stakes Warfighter exercise this month, putting its command teams and staff through a grueling, simulated campaign that tested their ability to plan, coordinate and fight as a unified force all without firing a single live round. The training was conducted at Camp Atterbury entirely through the Army's Command Post Computing Environment, or CPCE. This sophisticated digital system allows commanders to direct simulated troops, track battlefield movements and coordinate everything from ammunition deliveries to complex maneuvers in real time. For a National Guard division whose Soldiers typically come together only during monthly drill weekends and annual training, the exercise was a rare and critical opportunity to rehearse the demands of sustained combat operations. With a deployment on the horizon next year, leaders say the Warfighter was more than just a test; it was a proving ground. "This exercise was about making decisions under pressure, synchronizing our efforts and learning how to fight as one," said Brig. Gen. Matthew James, the division's deputy commanding general for maneuver. "We trained like we'll fight, using every tool available to us to keep the enemy off balance and maintain the initiative." Across the simulated battlefield, the division directed multiple brigades in seizing key terrain, disrupting enemy formations and forcing opposing forces into a defensive posture. Every move was deliberate, and every order contributed to CPCE's common operating picture, providing commanders at every level with a unified, real-time view of the fight. Sustainment, the lifeline of any operation, was also at the forefront. Using CPCE's logistics tools, planners rehearsed moving massive quantities of supplies to forward positions. In a single 24-hour period, the division simulated delivering nearly 200,000 units of food, more than 339,000 gallons of fuel, more than 59,000 units of barrier and construction materials, and more than 300,000 rounds of ammunition. "Our sustainment teams worked hand-in-hand with maneuver to make sure operations never slowed down," said Brig. Gen. Theresa Cogswell, the division's deputy commanding general for support. "Even in simulation, you can't win without anticipating needs and pushing resources where they're required most." The 36th Infantry Division's performance at Warfighter builds on a proud legacy. Known as the "Texas Division" and wearing the distinctive "T-Patch," the unit has fought in some of the most pivotal campaigns in U.S. Army history from landing at Salerno during World War II to serving in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan. That tradition of service continues today, with the division preparing to add a new chapter to its history in the coming deployment. Maj. Gen. John Bowlin, commanding general of the 36th Infantry Division, said the exercise proved the division's ability to operate as a cohesive, combat-ready force despite geographic separation during most of the year. "When we deploy, it won't matter that our Soldiers normally train in separate locations across Texas and beyond," Bowlin said. "What matters is that we know how to integrate our capabilities, make rapid decisions, and execute as one division. This Warfighter showed we can do exactly that." For many Soldiers, the exercise was the most immersive training they've experienced outside of a deployment. "It was fast-paced, and it pushed all of us to think ahead," said Sgt. 1st Class Jaime Meza, a paralegal with the division's Office of the Staff Judge Advocate. "You could see how every decision in the command post had a ripple effect on the fight. It made me feel confident about what we can do when we're overseas." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000: Federal Council approves agreement to expand operator group Swiss Government Press release Published on 13 August 2025 Berna, 13.08.2025 -- Through its membership in the CV90 Club (Combat Vehicle 90 operator group), Switzerland benefits from efficient and cost-effective maintenance of its Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000 while gaining valuable insights into ongoing developments. The Czech Republic and Slovakia are now set to join the group, which facilitates information exchange among user nations. The Federal Council approved the agreement to expand the operator group at its meeting on 13 August. The CV90, developed by Swedish manufacturer BAE Systems Hagglunds AB, is operated by numerous armed forces worldwide, including the Swiss Armed Forces, where it is designated the Infantry Fighting Vehicle 2000. To enhance cooperation in maintenance, upgrades, spare parts and ammunition procurement, configuration management and training equipment, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway and Finland established an operator group in 2003. The Netherlands joined in 2008, Denmark in 2010, and Estonia in 2020. The Czech Republic and Slovakia will now join the CV90 operator group. Switzerland and the other participating countries welcome their membership and expect to benefit from both nations' operational experience with the CV90. This decision aligns with the objectives of the Federal Council's armaments policy strategy of 20 June 2025 (available in German and French), which calls for strengthening Switzerland's defence cooperation, particularly with European countries. Efficient, cost-effective maintenance and knowledge sharing By exchanging information within the operator group, Switzerland is able to maintain its fleet efficiently and cost-effectively while gaining valuable insights into ongoing developments. The CV90 operating group agreement is not legally binding and entails no financial or personnel commitments. International cooperation in the defence sector Switzerland maintains institutionalised bilateral and multilateral defence relationships with numerous countries. In light of the war in Ukraine, the Federal Council is further strengthening the Armed Forces' defence capabilities while placing even greater emphasis on intensifying international cooperation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Finland and United States sign first DCA implementing agreement Finnish Ministry of Defence 13.08.2025 17:18 Finland and the United States signed the Implementing Agreement Regarding Infrastructure in Implementation of the Agreement on Defence Cooperation Between the Government of the Republic of Finland and the Government of the United States of America on 13 August 2025. The agreement concerns the mechanisms for the planning, contracts, implementation and funding of infrastructure construction under the Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA). "The representatives of Finland and the United States have worked hard to deepen our defence cooperation. The agreement now signed will deepen the defence cooperation between Finland and the United States in terms of infrastructure and construction," Minister of Defence Antti Hakkanen said. According to Minister of Defence Hakkanen, defence cooperation between Finland and the United States strengthens security in Finland. "Finland has a strong deterrence effect thanks to our robust homeland defence, our membership in NATO and the Defence Cooperation Agreement we have with the United States that enables US military presence and commitment to Finland's defence. Finland will not be coerced or undermined by military force," Minister Hakkanen said. This first implementing agreement was signed in Stuttgart, Germany, by the United States European Command (USEUCOM), on behalf of the United States, and by Brigadier General Markku Viitasaari, Director of the National Defence Unit at the Ministry of Defence, on behalf of Finland. Finland and the United States are currently negotiating five additional implementing agreements that concern security, taxation, entry and exit requirements, customs duties and imports. The negotiations on this set of agreements are scheduled to be concluded by the end of 2025. The next set of agreements to be negotiated will concern the environment and the movement of aircraft, vessels and vehicles. Their preparation will start once the negotiations on the first six agreements have been concluded. The Defence Cooperation Agreement between Finland and the United States enables the presence and training of US forces in Finland. In Finland, more than 80 people in different ministries and government agencies are working to promote the DCA implementation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese naval troops expel US warship intruding into territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao: spokesperson Global Times By Guo Yuandan and Liu Xuanzun Published: Aug 13, 2025 11:37 AM The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Wednesday expelled a US warship when it intruded into Chinese territorial waters near Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea. A Chinese expert said the proactive information released by the PLA shows that it has full control over the situation around the Huangyan Dao and will not leave any chances for those with malicious intentions. The USS Higgins destroyer on Wednesday illegally intruded into the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao without permission from the Chinese government. The navy of the PLA Southern Theater Command mobilized forces to monitor, warn and expel the vessel in accordance with laws and regulations, said Senior Captain He Tiecheng, a spokesperson for the navy of the PLA Southern Theater Command, in a statement on Wednesday. US military's actions have severely violated China's sovereignty and security, seriously undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea, and breached international law and the basic norms of international relations. The naval troops of the PLA Southern Theater Command remain on high alert at all times, resolutely defending national sovereignty, security, and regional peace and stability, the spokesperson said. The USS Higgins is a warship with the US Seventh Fleet, based in Yokosuka, Japan. Sarah Merrill, a spokesperson for the fleet, claimed that the USS Higgins was conducting a "freedom of navigation operation in accordance with international law," according to a CNBC report on Wednesday. Bao Yinan, an associate research fellow at the Huayang Center for Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance, told the Global Times on Wednesday that this marks the first US military's intrusion into territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao since US President Donald Trump took office the second time. The last time a US warship intruding into Huangyan Dao waters was on May 20, 2019, when the USS Preble destroyer trespassed into waters within 12 nautical miles of Huangyan Dao. In November 2024, the Chinese government declared the baselines of the territorial sea adjacent to Huangyan Dao. Bao said that the US military's latest move could be an act to show its reluctance to recognize China's newly declared baselines of the territorial sea adjacent to Huangyan Dao. Chinese military affairs expert Zhang Junshe told the Global Times on Wednesday that freedom of navigation in the South China Sea has never been restricted. All countries enjoy various rights in the region, including freedom of navigation and overflight. The US military has repeatedly claimed that its so-called "freedom of navigation operations'" in other countries' territorial waters are intended to challenge "excessive maritime claims" and are conducted in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). However, the fact is that the US has not even ratified UNCLOS to this day. What it enforces is entirely a set of self-made standards, using "freedom of navigation" as a pretext to infringe upon other nations' rights whenever it chooses. Practice has proven that such actions are hardly acceptable to other countries, Zhang said. The US warship's intrusion came after Philippine vessels' intrusion into Huangyan Dao waters on Monday. On Monday, the Philippines sent multiple coast guard and government vessels, under the pretext of delivering supplies to fishing boats, to forcibly intrude into waters near China's Huangyan Dao, despite repeated dissuasion and warnings from the Chinese side, China Coast Guard (CCG) spokesperson Gan Yu said in a statement on Monday. The CCG, in accordance with the law, took necessary measures, including tracking, monitoring, blocking and controlling to drive the Philippine vessels away. On-site operations were conducted in a professional, standard and lawful manner, Gan said, noting that Huangyan Dao is an inherent part of China's territory, and the CCG will continue to carry out rights-protection and law enforcement activities in the waters of Huangyan Dao in accordance with the law, and will resolutely safeguard China's national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests. Bao said that the US military deliberately chose this timing to embolden the Philippines, endorse its provocative actions, and further disrupt peace and stability in the South China Sea. Zhang said that the spokesperson of the navy of the PLA Southern Theater Command proactively disclosed the intrusion of a US warship into the territorial waters of Huangyan Dao. This sent a clear signal to the international community that the PLA maintains full control over the situation around Huangyan Dao, the PLA can respond swiftly to any provocative actions, and will absolutely leave no opportunity for those with malicious intent. The PLA has the unwavering capability to safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, Zhang said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Exclusive: Video clips expose Philippine ship's dangerous maneuvers during August 11 Huangyan Dao intrusion Global Times By Liu Xuanzun and Cao Siqi Published: Aug 13, 2025 08:35 PM The Philippine Coast Guard ship 4406 conducted highly dangerous maneuvers on Chinese law enforcement vessels during its intrusion into waters near China's Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea on August 11, videos exclusively obtained by the Global Times from a source on Wednesday showed. Ignoring repeated dissuasion and warnings from the Chinese side, the Philippines organized multiple types of vessels to insist on intruding into waters near China's Huangyan Dao under the pretext of delivering supplies to fishing boats. During the incident, the Philippine Coast Guard ship 4406 made multiple high-speed crossing maneuvers in front of the bow of the CCG ship 3104, one of the video clips showed. Chinese experts slammed that the Philippine ship's maneuvers severely compromised the navigational safety of the Chinese vessel, and seriously violated the most basic principles and rules of maritime navigational safety. Another video clip, captured from another Chinese vessel during the incident on Monday, showed that the Philippine Coast Guard ship 4406 made a dangerous close-quarters maneuver at 8:02 am, approaching from the Chinese vessel's port side. Besides, a photo obtained by the Global Times exclusively from a source on Wednesday, taken from the bridge of the Chinese vessel on Monday, showed the Philippine ship making another provocative and dangerous approach at 8:10 am in an apparent attempt to cut across the Chinese ship's path. This was an organized and premeditated maritime "swarm operation" from the Philippine side which seriously threatened the safety of the professional and restrained Chinese law enforcement vessels and personnel on the scene, Yang Xiao, an expert on maritime issues at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, told the Global Times on Wednesday. The courses and maneuvers taken by the Philippine Coast Guard vessel 4406 this time were typically unprofessional, unsafe, and non-compliant. As clearly shown in the video clips, the Philippine vessel repeatedly cut in front of the CCG vessel's course, severely disrupting the navigation safety of Chinese vessel, Yang said. "We can imagine that a vehicle recklessly speeding, cutting off others, weaving through lanes, and driving wildly on a highway must bear full responsibility for all resulting traffic damages and face legal punishment and the judgment of justice," the expert said. Therefore, the full responsibility for the resulting damages lies with the Philippine side, and all losses should be entirely borne by the Philippine vessel that provoked and caused the incident at sea. China has every reason and the full right to take all necessary countermeasures, including demands for compensation, Yang said. The expert also noted US roles in the Philippines' increasingly provocative moves. US Naval Special Warfare SEALs and combatant-craft crewmen have trained with their Philippine Navy counterparts and Coast Guard personnel in the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait during the Balikatan 2025 joint exercises, while US special forces also held a small vessel defensive tactics training activity for the Philippine Coast Guard last October in Palawan, USNI News, the news website of the US Naval Institute, reported in May. This gray-zone strategy that blurs the line between coast guard law enforcement and maritime combat operations is an extremely dangerous move that escalates crises and confrontation. It severely violates internationally accepted norms of maritime law enforcement, drags professional enforcement activities into the trap of covert military operations, and could lead to serious miscalculations and heightened risks of conflict at sea, Yang warned. The Philippines' actions, including provocative approaches and tactical maneuvers, have severely jeopardized the safety of Chinese law enforcement vessels and personnel, who have long maintained a high degree of restraint, rationality, and professionalism in their operations. Henceforth, such acts could be regarded as substantive combat operations threatening Chinese vessels and personnel, and met with correspondingly escalated countermeasures from China, Yang said. Ding Duo, director of the Research Center for International and Regional Studies at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, told the Global Times on Wednesday that the Philippines has been continuously hyping its so-called "supply mission to fishing boats" on international media, seizing the opportunity to smear China's legitimate rights protection efforts in the South China Sea and portraying itself as a "victim" to the international community. Behind these actions lie the Marcos administration's attempts to divert domestic tensions and pursue political self-interest, Manila's scheme to cement its illegal gains and expand unlawful claims in the South China Sea, as well as the country's underlying worries about the future course of its relations with the US, Ding said. "If the Philippines persists in provocations, it will inevitably face more targeted countermeasures from China. Manila will surely pay the price for its repeated miscalculations and obstinate provocations," Ding noted. In response to foreign media inquiry about the incident on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that Huangyan Dao has always been China's territory. On Monday, the Philippines sent multiple Coast Guard vessels, official vessels and so-called fishing vessels to intrude into the territorial waters of Huangyan Dao, and in the meanwhile, Philippine military aircraft also intruded into the air space of Huangyan Dao. The Philippines' moves seriously infringed upon China's sovereignty and rights and interests, and seriously harmed peace and stability at sea. These moves are of a malign nature. It is legitimate and lawful for China to do what is necessary to safeguard our territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in accordance with the law, Lin said. Facts have proven once again that the Philippines' intentional infringement and provocative activities at sea are the root cause for the tensions. China urges the Philippines to stop the infringement and provocative activities at once and refrain from challenging China's firm resolve to safeguard our lawful rights and interests, the spokesperson said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Developments in the Caucasus; Araghchi consultating with Russian foreign mnister's special envoy IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- In a meeting with the Special Representative of the Russian Foreign Minister, Igor Khovayev, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi pointed out the alignment of the two countries' positions on important regional issues. During the meeting, Araghchi emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of issues by regional countries and utilizing the capacity of regional mechanisms such as the 3+3 structure in line with regional convergence and ensuring security, stability, and collective interests of the countries of the Caucasus region. Igor Khovayev, the special representative of the Russian Foreign Minister for the Caucasus, who has traveled to Tehran to discuss and consult on the latest developments in the Caucasus region, met with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Wednesday evening. Referring to the alignment of the two countries' positions on important regional and international issues, Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized the need to continue and strengthen consultations and cooperation between the two countries in order to protect common interests. Referring to the principled position of the Islamic Republic of Iran in supporting the establishment of peace between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, Araghchi emphasized the necessity of peaceful resolution of issues in the region and by the countries of the region, and utilizing the capacity of regional mechanisms such as the 3+3 structure in order to resolve regional issues, expand regional cooperation and integration, and ensure regional security and stability. In this meeting, the Special Representative of the Russian Foreign Minister conveyed warm greetings from Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, presented a report on Russia's diplomatic efforts to establish peace and tranquility in the Caucasus region, and emphasized the importance of close and continuous consultation, interaction, and coordination between Iran and Russia. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's top security official vows support for Lebanon's independent decisions IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani says that any decision made by the Lebanese government in consultation with the "resistance" would be respected by Tehran. Speaking during a joint press conference with Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut on Wednesday, Larijani praised Lebanon as a "courageous nation" capable of making its own decisions, emphasizing that Iran does not view its allies as "tools" and that the resistance movement possesses "deep awareness and broad thinking," requiring no external guidance. He criticized foreign countries for attempting to impose policies on Lebanon, stating, "Nations outside Lebanon should not dictate to Lebanon." Larijani stressed that regional governments should remain independent and strong, adding, "Lebanon does not need orders from across the seas. Every country has the right to decide its own future." In a pointed remark, Larijani accused Israel of seeking to achieve through other means what it failed to gain through war, warning Lebanon not to confuse friends with enemies. "The enemy is Israel, which attacked you. Your friend is the one who resisted Israel - know their worth," he said. When asked whether Iran would provide military assistance if Israel attacks Lebanon again, Larijani responded, "If the Lebanese government requests military help from us, we will assist." He denied any Iranian interference in Lebanon's affairs, adding "Those who interfere are the ones giving you action plans and timetables from thousands of miles away - we have given you no such plan." Larijani also framed regional resistance movements as organic responses to foreign aggression, citing Hezbollah's formation after Israel's occupation of Beirut and Iraqi resistance following the US invasion. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel intentionally kills journalists in Gaza: UN rights rapporteur IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, Francesca Albanese, says Israel intentionally kills journalists in Gaza to prevent real-time professional reporting on its crimes. In a post on her X account on Wednesday, Albanese wrote, "Israel intentionally kills journalists in Gaza so as to prevent real-time professional reporting on its crimes; 200 murdered since Oct-2023." She added, "Shame on the media who stay silent instead of standing for truth, solidarity, press access." Albanese has published this message in response to a tweet calling on international journalists to sign a petition titled "Freedom To Report." Also, in a statement, the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate denounced Israel's targeting of journalists as "an intentional effort to conceal the truth and obscure crimes against the Palestinian people". The Israeli regime continues to kill Palestinians in Gaza since October 7, 2023, while the International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former war minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity. More than 61,599 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed across the Gaza Strip since the war began. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran committed to Lebanon's national interests: Top security official IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, has emphasized Iran's unwavering commitment to the national interests of Lebanon. Larijani made the remark upon arrival in the Lebanese capital, Beirut, on Wednesday as part of his regional tour that earlier took him to Iraq. "The suffering of the Lebanese people is our suffering. We will stand by the people of Lebanon under all circumstances," he said. The SNSC secretary further expressed gratitude to Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri for facilitating his visit. During his stay, the top Iranian security official is scheduled to meet with key figures, including the president, prime minister, and other prominent political figures in Lebanon. Larijani began his regional tour on Monday when he visited Baghdad. There, he and his Iraqi counterpart signed a key security agreement which Larijani said is aimed at fostering ties between the two countries. 4208**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address FM Sa'ar meets with delegation of journalists Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs FM Sa'ar: "A two-state solution? A Palestinian state in the heart of Israel would indeed be a solution - a solution for those who seek to eliminate us. We will not let this happen." Type: Press Releases Topic: Foreign Policy, Terrorism Publish Date: 13.08.2025 As part of its public diplomacy efforts, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa'ar is currently hosting in Israel a delegation of journalists led by Newsmax, one of the leading media networks in the United States. The delegation also includes journalists from other American media outlets. Earlier today, FM Sa'ar met with the founder and CEO of Newsmax Chris Ruddy. In addition, FM Sa'ar was interviewed by Carl Higbie. FM Sa'ar congratulated the members of the delegation on their arrival in Israel and briefed them on the regional situation with an emphasis on the dangers of a Palestinian state. FM Sa'ar said in the briefing: "Establishing a Palestinian state within the '67 borders, with its capital in East Jerusalem - a short distance from here - would put Israel's population centers in grave danger, and would push Israel to borders that cannot be defended. When we are told: Establish a Palestinian state here, on these hills, close to us, at the shortest distance from all our population centers - Jerusalem, the coastal area, it is clear that such a move would be suicidal. A two-state solution? A Palestinian state in the heart of Israel would indeed be a solution - a solution for those who seek to eliminate us. We will not let this happen. If large countries like France and Canada want to establish a Palestinian state in their territory, they can, they have enough territory. But here in the Land of Israel, it will not happen." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lithuania and the U.S. are co-preparing a 20-year Pabrade Training Area development plan Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of National Defence 2025-08-13 Acquisitions and infrastructure development | International cooperation | Security and defense policy Lithuania and the United States are crafting a long-term plan for developing military infrastructure and training territory at the Pabrade Training Area. The plan will outline training area development, planning, designing and constructing sites for the next 20 years. The strategic plan is to combine the Lithuanian, NATO and U.S. vision of the training area and requirements for future infrastructure solutions. "We will unveil new housing, administrative, dinning and storage infrastructure for U.S. military personnel at the General Silvestras Zukauskas Training Area in Pabrade as soon as this autumn. The training area will continue expanding on the basis of a long term plan we will put together for the decades to come. All the infrastructure is design to combine Lithuanian and U.S. military needs to provide the best conditions to our Allies so that they can feel at home in Lithuania," says Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene. The long-term plan will ensure a systematic development of military infrastructure combining the needs of U.S., Lithuania and other NATO Allies' troops, as well as improve living and service conditions. 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's investment in infrastructure dedicated for U.S. military personnel exceeds USD 200 million. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A look at the Defence news 4 - 10 August Netherlands Ministry of Defence News item | 13-08-2025 | 09:32 The Netherlands Ministry of Defence has made its first aid drop in Gaza. The drop contained food, drinking water and medical supplies and was carried out by a C-130 Hercules transport aircraft. The Netherlands will be providing emergency aid by air for the next two weeks. The Netherlands becomes first NATO country to support Ukraine through American initiative The Netherlands is donating a support package worth 500 million euros to Ukraine as part of a new US-led initiative known as the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List. This initiative allows NATO Allies to acquire military materiel from US stocks in order to donate it to Ukraine. The Netherlands is the first to fund a materiel package in full, making it the first NATO member state to donate goods to Ukraine through this new initiative. The Netherlands contributes to training of 56,000 Ukrainians in the United Kingdom Since 2022, over 56,000 Ukrainians have received training in the UK aimed at defending their own country. The basic military skills included in this training were taught to them by international military personnel, including from the Dutch armed forces, as part of Operation Interflex. Netherlands Ministry of Defence Ruben Brekelmans recently visited the operation and witnessed the training firsthand. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan: Turk outraged after RSF kills at least 57 civilians in El Fasher and Abu Shouk IDP camp Press releases Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 13 August 2025 GENEVA -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk today expressed outrage at the large-scale attack by the Rapid Support Forces on the besieged city of El Fasher and the adjoining Abu Shouk camp for the internally displaced that left scores of civilians dead. Preliminary information obtained by the UN Human Rights Office indicates that at least 57 civilians were killed in the 11 August attack on El Fasher, including 40 internally displaced people in Abu Shouk camp, in Sudan's North Darfur state. The Office is also following up on allegations of executions of IDPs in the camp during the attack. "It is with dismay that we yet again witness an unimaginable horror inflicted upon civilians in El Fasher, who have endured over a year of siege, persistent attacks and dire humanitarian conditions," said Turk. "Such repeated attacks on civilians, which raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law, are totally unacceptable and must stop." Monday's attacks are the latest in a series of RSF assaults on camps for displaced people in and around El Fasher. Between January and June, the Abu Shouk camp came under attack by the RSF at least 16 times, leaving at least 212 IDPs dead and 111 others injured. "Once again, I am raising the alarm about the serious risk of ethnically motivated persecution as the RSF tries to seize control of El Fasher and Abu Shouk camp," said Turk. UN Human Rights staff recently travelled to eastern Chad and interviewed more than 150 survivors of the RSF attacks on Zamzam camp in April. Their testimonies corroborated previous documentation of serious human rights violations and abuses against civilians during the deadly attack on Zamzam camp and their flight to Tawila, including killings, widespread rape and gang rape, enforced disappearances and torture. They also said that there are no safe exit routes from El Fasher. The UN Human Rights Chief reiterated his call on all parties to take urgent measures to ensure the protection of civilians, including safe passage out of conflict-affected areas. He also urged them to agree promptly to humanitarian pauses in besieged areas, so that aid can reach those in need. "I urge third States to use all their influence to put an end to these violations," said Turk. He also called for those responsible to be brought to account. "Accountability is crucial to break this cycle of persistent and egregious violations," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Uganda: Besigye bail denials seriously troubling Press releases Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 13 August 2025 Delivered by UN Human Rights Office Spokesperson Liz Throssell Location Geneva Repeated denials of bail to detained Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate Obeid Lutale are seriously troubling. Besigye and Lutale were on 8 August denied bail for the third time since their abduction in neighbouring Kenya and forcible return to Uganda in November last year. In dismissing their latest request, the High Court found them ineligible for mandatory bail merely on the ground that they had been detained in civil prison for less than the 180 days required to qualify for release on mandatory bail. It did not account for their prior deprivation of liberty following their abduction and forced return in November. We urge the authorities to reconsider the decision and grant them bail, and to ensure that any legal proceedings against them are fully in line with international human rights law. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN experts appalled by relentless Israeli attacks on Gaza's healthcare system Press releases Special Procedures 13 August 2025 GENEVA -- The targeted destruction of Gaza's healthcare system by the Israel Defense Forces amounts to "medicide," UN experts* said today, accusing Israel of deliberately attacking and starving healthcare workers, paramedics and hospitals to wipe out medical care in the besieged 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. The system of apartheid targeting Palestinians in the occupied territory and the continuous attacks on the healthcare system in Gaza are straining the last remaining resources in the besieged and devastated enclave, the experts warned. "Health and care workers have been continuously targeted, detained, tortured and are now, like the rest of the population, being starved," they said. The UN has reported that health and care workers have fainted due to lack of food and starvation, a violation not only of their own right to health, but one that curtails their ability to perform their duties and compromises the care and healing conditions necessary to treat their patients. The World Health Organization has reported 735 attacks on health care in Gaza from 7 October 2023 to 11 June 2025, that have killed 917 persons and injured 1411, affected 125 health facilities, and damaged 34 hospitals. "Deliberate attacks on health and care workers, and health facilities, which are gross violations of international humanitarian law, must stop now," they said. "The disregard towards the crimes Israel continues to commit in Gaza sends a stark message to the world that the people of Gaza do not count and their life does not matter. Palestinians in Gaza are being denied their right to dignity, to existence, and to food," the experts said. "There is a moral imperative for the international community to end the carnage and allow the people of Gaza to live on their land without fear of attack, killing and starvation, and free from permanent occupation and apartheid," the Special Rapporteurs said. "States have failed in this duty, and Palestinians trapped in Gaza's hellscape are paying the ultimate price for that failure and indifference." "Ceasefire, now, as a first step to hold Israel accountable," the experts said, calling on the international community to save what is left of Gaza's healthcare 'system' and prevent the extermination of its population. *The experts: Tlaleng Mofokeng , Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. , Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health. Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967 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/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vietnamese PM calls for ongoing tariff talks with U.S. People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 16:00, August 13, 2025 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DFA 'aware' of US freedom of navigation ops near Scarborough Philippine News Agency By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora August 13, 2025, 10:34 pm MANILA -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Wednesday night said it is "aware" of the freedom of navigation operations (FONOPs) conducted by the United States near the Bajo de Masinloc. Bajo de Masinloc, also known as the Scarborough Shoal, is a longstanding and integral part of Philippine territory situated less than 200 nautical miles away from Zambales province. Citing the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), DFA spokesperson Angelica Escalona said certain rights, including the freedom of navigationeven within Philippine watersare guaranteed to nations. "The DFA is aware of the FONOPS conducted by US warships in the vicinity waters of Bajo de Masinloc, which is a longstanding and integral part of Philippine territory," she said. "It should be pointed out that UNCLOS provides certain rights and freedoms of transit such as innocent passage, freedom of navigation and archipelagic sea lanes passage in the Philippines' archipelagic waters, territorial sea and exclusive economic zone," she added. Notification, she said, is not required by the Philippines for foreign vessels to exercise these freedoms in Philippine maritime zones, in accordance with international laws, particularly the UNCLOS. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported the sighting of USS Higgins (DDG-76) and USS Cincinnati (LCS 20) approximately 102 nautical miles from Zambales on Wednesday. PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela said the US warships were "exercising navigational rights and freedoms in the West Philippine Sea near the BDM" in accordance with international law. The US classifies "FONOPs" as an important element of its initiative to challenge excessive maritime claims and preserve navigation, overflight, and other rights/freedoms guaranteed to all nations under international law. The deployment of the US Navy ships comes on the heels of China's dangerous maneuvers against Filipino vessels off the Bajo de Masinloc, resulting in the collision of its own ships on Aug. 11. Following the incident, US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson described the Chinese actions as "reckless." (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Collision of Chinese ships underscores need for restraint - Australia Philippine News Agency By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora August 13, 2025, 6:29 pm MANILA -- The Australian Embassy in Manila on Wednesday expressed "serious concern" over the collision of two Chinese vessels near Bajo de Masinloc, saying the incident underscores the urgent need for "restraint" in the area. "Australia is seriously concerned by the dangerous and unprofessional conduct of Chinese vessels near Scarborough Shoal involving the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)," the embassy said in a statement posted on X. "This incident highlights the need for de-escalation, restraint, and respect for international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)," it added. Australia joined several foreign missions in raising alarm over the incident. The Canadian Embassy in Manila said it was gravely concerned over the incident and called for peaceful resolution of disputes. Meanwhile, it commended the crew of the PCG for offering assistance to the wrecked CCG cutter. "We commend the PCG for offering to help a Chinese vessel and continue to call for the peaceful resolution of disputes, in accordance with UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award," it said. Also, the New Zealand Embassy in Manila called for a peaceful resolution of maritime disputes. "New Zealand is concerned by the collision between vessels near Scarborough Shoal, and the pattern of dangerous and destabilising actions in the South China Sea. We do not want to see ship and crew safety undermined. We call for peaceful resolution of maritime disputes in accordance with UNCLOS," it said. The Embassies of the United States, Japan, and United Kingdom earlier echoed the same concerns over X. United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson condemned the Chinese actions, describing them as "reckless" and directed against the PCG vessel. The latest incident took place off the Bajo de Masinloc on Monday morning, while the Chinese Coast Guard ship 3104 was chasing BRP Suluan at high speed. Visibly suffering from significant damage after colliding with People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ship 164, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) immediately offered assistance, including medical aid and the towing of the damaged ship out of the area. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Upholding PH maritime rights 'non-negotiable' - Legarda Philippine News Agency By Wilnard Bacelonia August 13, 2025, 3:30 pm MANILA -- Senator Loren Legarda on Wednesday reaffirmed the Philippines' firm position on its maritime rights, emphasizing that adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award is "non-negotiable." In her keynote address during the Department of Foreign Affairs' Ocean Talk, Legarda said the rule of law must be the bedrock of ocean governance, especially amid intensifying threats to the country's territorial integrity and marine resources. "Upholding our maritime rights is non-negotiable. Adherence to UNCLOS and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award is the foundation of stability and stewardship in our waters," Legarda said. "Only the rule of law can secure the strength of ocean governance." The senator represented the country at the recently concluded Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), where the Philippines served as one of the 13 vice presidents. She said that while the Philippines has taken part in shaping international ocean policy, real change must be implemented at the local level. Legarda said the 2016 ruling, which invalidated China's expansive claims over the South China Sea, must remain central in defending Philippine sovereignty and marine biodiversity. "The Philippines has led and will continue to lead in ocean protection and climate action," she said. As vice chair of the Senate foreign relations panel, Legarda vowed to prioritize the ratification of the High Seas Treaty, formally known as the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement, and to champion legislation such as the proposed Blue Economy Act. She said the country's maritime stance must be strengthened by local action, including empowered coastal communities, expanded marine protected areas, and tighter enforcement of laws against illegal fishing and plastic pollution. "Our most significant victories are yet to be wonif we dare to do more, together," Legarda said. The Philippines won a landmark ruling in 2016 at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which declared China's sweeping claims over the South China Seabased on its so-called nine-dash linehave no legal basis under UNCLOS. Despite the ruling, China continues to assert its presence in Philippine waters, prompting repeated calls from the international community and Filipino officials for full compliance with international maritime law. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PAF gets 5 more 'Black Hawk' choppers Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno August 13, 2025, 2:22 pm MANILA -- The Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Wednesday formally received five brand new S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters, further boosting its capability to do a variety of air missions, especially humanitarian assistance and disaster response. PAF chief Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura led the acceptance, turnover, and blessing ceremony for the new helicopters at the Haribon Hangar in Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said in a media statement. "The helicopters, which arrived in the Philippines on July 15, 2025, form part of the 32-unit acquisition under a direct contract with Poland's PZL Mielec through the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program," Castillo said. The first batch of five helicopters arrived in the country on June 10 last year, followed by another five six months later or on Dec. 9. The 32-unit acquisition is worth PHP32 billion. Castillo said each delivery underwent a stringent Technical Inspection and Acceptance (TIA) process conducted by the Department of National Defense (DND), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and PAF to ensure compliance with operational standards and specifications. The new helicopters will be operated and maintained by the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing under the Air Mobility Command. S-70i "Black Hawk" helicopters are known for their versatility, speed, and reliability in a wide range of missions. The DND previously purchased 16 units of "Black Hawk" helicopters from PZL Mielec, which were delivered from 2020 to 2021, for PHP11.5 billion. "With this latest addition, the PAF further strengthens its capacity to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, troop and cargo transport, and other missions critical to national security and development," Castillo said. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nafarrete affirms PA role in CADC in 1st meeting with Teodoro Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno August 13, 2025, 1:20 pm MANILA -- Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete has affirmed the service's commitment to the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) during a courtesy call with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. earlier this week. In a news release on Wednesday, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the meeting took place at the Department of National Defense building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Aug. 11. "During the call, the Army chief discussed the PA's role in the CADC as it embarks on its continued modernization and transformation thrusts," Dema-ala said. Under CADC, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is tasked to protect all of the country's territories, including its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. Dema-ala said the PA stands resolute in its mission to provide responsive, credible, and capable forces to the AFP through modernization, doctrinal refinement, and organizational development. In a separate statement, the AFP said Nafarrete also met with AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday. "The meeting highlighted the continuing collaboration and unified leadership between the AFP's top command and its major service branches," the AFP said. It added that Nafarrete's visit "served as a reaffirmation of the PA's commitment to the AFP's mission of protecting national sovereignty and supporting peace and development efforts across the country." Nafarrete formally assumed command of the PA on July 31, succeeding Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, who retired after two years as PA commander. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Measures in place in case PH ships hit by Chinese vessels in WPS - AFP Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno August 13, 2025, 11:33 am MANILA -- Contingency plans are in place in case the Aug. 11 Chinese harassment in Bajo de Masinloc resulted in a Filipino casualty, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Tuesday. "May mga contingency plan tayo kung may nangyaring namatay or kung inabutan 'yung Coast Guard natin ng [People's Liberation Army] Navy (We have contingency plans if ever someone was killed or the Coast Guard ship was hit by the PLA Navy)," Brawner said in an interview. "May mga actions tayong gagawin (We will act on it)," he added. Brawner said military and PCG personnel have been instructed to always follow the "Rules of Engagement" when performing their duties. "At ang sabi doon sa (and what is said in the) Rules of Engagement is that we have the right to defend ourselves," the AFP chief said. Brawner also said the incident does not meet the requirements for the activation of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the United States. On Aug. 11, two Chinese vessels collided while attempting to chase the Philippine Coast Guard's (PCG) BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) that was performing routine humanitarian operation for Filipino fisherfolk in Bajo de Masinloc. The PCG ship was accompanying a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel to Bajo de Masinloc to distribute aid to local fisherfolk when it was chased by PLAN ship 164 and China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel 3104. BRP Suluan was able to evade the pursuing Chinese vessels, which eventually collided with one another. The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), has expressed "serious concern" over the incident, calling China's action as "unlawful interference" with routine Philippine operations in Bajo de Masinloc. The DFA also said it is lodging a new protest against China's conduct of "dangerous maneuvers" in Bajo de Masinloc, also known as the Scarborough Shoal. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Arab League, Jordan slam Netanyahu over 'Greater Israel' statement Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 7:31 PM The Arab League and Jordan have condemned recent remarks by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which he said he feels "very" attached to the so-called vision of "a Greater Israel." On Tuesday, Netanyahu told Israeli media that he feels a deep connection to "this vision" of a "Greater Israel," referring to the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories as well as parts of Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, and described it as "a historical and spiritual mission." The following day, the General Secretariat of the Arab League strongly condemned Netanyahu's remarks, denouncing any attempt to seize parts of sovereign Arab states to create the so-called "Greater Israel." The General Secretariat's statement warned that these remarks pose a serious threat to the collective Arab national security and constitute a blatant challenge to international law and the principles of international legitimacy. According to the statement, the comments expose "intolerable" expansionist and aggressive intentions of the regime. The Arab League's General Secretariat also urged the UN Security Council to fulfill its responsibility and to adopt a decisive action against these "extremist" statements that undermine the stability of West Asia. Jordan also decried Netanyahu's statement, with the country's foreign ministry condemning it as a "serious provocative escalation, a threat to the sovereignty of states, and a violation of international law and the United Nations Charter." Sufian Qudah, a spokesman for the ministry, warned that these "claims and illusions" fuel the ongoing "spiral of violence and conflict." Qudah called on the international community to take immediate action to "stop all Israeli provocative actions and statements that threaten the stability of the region and international peace and security." Netanyahu's remarks come as Israel has waged a genocidal war on Gaza since October 7, 2023, which has so far killed nearly 61,722 Palestinians and injured 154,525 others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza authorities say Israel is deliberately 'engineering starvation' Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 7:02 PM Gaza's Interior Ministry says Israel is deliberately fueling chaos and "engineering starvation" by preventing aid from reaching those in need across the beseiged Palestinian region. In a statement released on Wednesday, the ministry said Israeli forces were allowing "gangs and thugs" to loot and attack aid trucks, reselling the supplies at inflated prices and leaving families without the food they cannot afford. The statement further said Israel has systematically targeted community and tribal protection teams in an effort to block any organized distribution of humanitarian aid. The ministry also pointed to an attack earlier today in northern Gaza that killed and wounded several Palestinians. The ministry urged the international community to pressure Israel to allow agencies, especially the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), to safely deliver aid across Gaza. The ministry demanded a swift action by the international community against Israel, warning that global silence amounts to complicity in a policy of starvation that is "claiming lives daily". The developments come as hunger-related deaths in Gaza continue to soar amid the Israeli-induced famine. Mohammed Zaqout, Gaza's director of general hospitals, said that at least 106 children were among 235 people dying from starvation. He urged the international community to intervene immediately to allow much-needed aid into the besieged strip, warning that deaths from malnutrition could soon affect most communities in Gaza. "These cases will soon be in the thousands, if nothing changes," Zaqout was quoted as saying. The director stressed that the Palestinian children in particular were bearing the brunt of Israel's ongoing genocidal war on the coastal strip. "Children are among the weakest and most vulnerable to malnutrition," Zaqout said. "We have no treatments to save them, not even intravenous feeding, which is used in emergency cases like those we are seeing now." The crisis unfolds as Israeli forces continue their relentless assault on Gaza, causing escalating loss of life and widespread destruction across the aid-deprived territory. Israel's genocidal war, which began in October 2023, has so far killed over 61,700 Palestinians, mostly women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel's war on Gaza healthcare system 'medicide': UN experts Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 6:41 PM Israel is committing "medicide" in Gaza through the systematic destruction of the territory's healthcare system, UN experts have warned. Tlaleng Mofokeng, UN Special Rapporteur on the right to health, and Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territory, said Israel is deliberately dismantling Gaza's medical infrastructure as part of its broader genocidal campaign. "Health and care workers have been continuously targeted, detained, tortured, and are now, like the rest of the population, being starved," they said. "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." The experts also warned that as human beings "we cannot remain silent about the war crimes committed before our eyes in Gaza." Rights groups and health organizations have long documented Israel's targeting of Gaza's medical infrastructure through repeated air strikes, blockades on medical supplies, and restrictions on patients seeking treatment abroad. 55,000 pregnant women suffering from malnutrition The latest warning comes as the director of Gaza's al-Shifa Medical Complex reported that 55,000 pregnant women are suffering from malnutrition. He said the hospital can no longer provide essential services, and that three children with paralysis are at risk of dying due to lack of treatment. With no safe drinking water in Gaza City, cases of gastroenteritis are rising sharply, while patients with chronic conditions such as heart disease have been left without medicine or care. Health officials warn that without urgent action, Gaza's hospitals will collapse entirely, leaving millions of civilians without lifesaving care and holding the world accountable for standing by in silence. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UNRWA chief: Israel killed or wounded over 40,000 children in Gaza Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 5:59 PM The head of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) says more than 40,000 children have either been killed or injured following Israel's genocidal war and an all-out blockade of Gaza. "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," Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General for the UN agency said in a statement on Wednesday. The UNRWA chief further highlighted that at least 17,000 children were left unaccompanied and separated from their families, and one million minors were deeply traumatized and out of education due to Israeli aggression. "At least 100 children died of malnutrition and hunger," he added. In recent months Lazzarini has repeatedly warned that the Gaza Strip has become a "graveyard" for children. Since Tuesday, at least eight people, including three children, have starved to death in the territory, bringing the total count of hunger-related deaths to 235, including 106 children, the Gaza Health Ministry said. At least 123 Palestinians, including 21 aid seekers, were killed and 437 injured in Israeli attacks across the besieged strip in the last 24 hours, the health ministry statement added. The total number of aid seekers killed since May 27, when Israel introduced a new aid distribution mechanism through the US-based Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), has reached 1,859, with more than 13,594 injured. Nearly 170 non-governmental organizations have called for the immediate discontinuation of the controversial Israel-US-backed GHF. GHF has been tasked by the Israeli regime and the US government to "distribute aid" in Gaza since late May, when the regime partially eased its blockade after mounting international condemnation and warnings of imminent famine. The developments come as Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland and ex-UN high commissioner for human rights recently said that US President Donald Trump must realize that his country is the most complicit in the genocide in Gaza. She made these remarks while visiting the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing on Monday as part of a delegation from the Elders group of global leaders, founded by former South African president Nelson Mandela in 2007. Israel's aggression on Gaza has killed a total of 61,722 Palestinians and injured 154,525 since October 7, 2023. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran warns South Caucasus peace deals must not alter region's geopolitics Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 5:26 PM Iran's top diplomat has advocated for regional solutions to the South Caucasus crises, warning that any peace deal containing plans to reopen blocked routes in the region must not alter the region's geopolitics or disrupt other countries' lines of communication. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in a Wednesday meeting in Tehran with Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan, underscored Iran's longstanding support for peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan and for reopening transport links with full respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. "No plan for unblocking routes should lead to a change in the region's geopolitics or disrupt the communication routes of other countries in the region," he said. The Iranian minister was referring to a recent US-brokered peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, under which a transport corridor linking Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan is to be established. Araghchi emphasized the importance of all countries in the region jointly benefiting from the outcomes of any peace agreement. He also highlighted the need for regional issues to be resolved by the countries of the region themselves, including within the framework of the 3+3 mechanism, a regional cooperation format involving the three Caucasus countries of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia, and their three neighbors of Iran, Russia, and Turkey. On bilateral ties, Araghchi highlighted "very good relations and extensive cooperation" with Yerevan, saying that both governments are determined to further deepen ties "in line with the mutual interests of the two nations and sustainable peace and stability in the South Caucasus." The Armenian minister described Yerevan-Tehran ties as "special and exceptional" for Armenia. "Armenia considers its relations with Iran as strategic, and in making decisions regarding any agreement related to peace, security, and transportation routes in the Caucasus region, it pays serious attention to preserving stability in the region, the mutual interests of Iran and Armenia, and Iran's security and geopolitical concerns." Araghchi on Wednesday also met Igor Khovaev, Russia's special envoy for the Caucasus, for consultations on the Armenia-Azerbaijan deal. Citing the convergence of Tehran and Moscow's positions on key regional and international issues, the foreign minister called for continued and strengthened coordination "to safeguard common interests." Reiterating Iran's "principled position" of supporting peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, he urged full use of regional mechanisms such as the 3+3 to resolve disputes, expand cooperation and integration, and "guarantee the security, stability, and collective interests" of South Caucasus states, while ensuring any agreement respects the stability and security considerations of the region and its neighbors. Khovaev likewise placed a premium on "close and continuous consultation, interaction, and coordination" between Iran and Russia. 'Role of foreign powers unacceptable' Separately, Ali Akbar Velayati, senior advisor to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, held talks with the senior Armenian diplomat. In the meeting, Velayati said that "the fate of the region must be determined solely by the countries of the region." "Any action that harms our national security will receive an appropriate response," he said, referring to concerns that the US role in the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace deal might threaten Iran's interests in the region. He called the role of extra-regional powers unacceptable, arguing that the presence of those powers anywhere in the world leads to tension and instability. Welcoming deeper bilateral cooperation, Velayati said Iran has "always sought lasting peace and security among its neighbors" and, more than any other country, emphasized calm between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He noted Iran was the first country after the Soviet collapse to move to establish peace between the two, adding that during his tenure as foreign minister in the 1990s, he put all his efforts into this path. Kostanyan underscored the importance of maintaining historic and good neighborly relations between the two countries, saying that Armenia is deeply committed to friendly relations with Iran and values these historic ties. "We assure you that the bonds of friendship between Iran and Armenia will always remain strong. We will not allow any harm to come to these relations." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas delegation arrives in Egypt for talks to halt Israel's genocidal war in Gaza Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 4:06 PM A high-ranking delegation from the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has arrived in Egypt for talks aimed at halting Israel's genocidal assault on the Gaza Strip. Led by senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya, the delegation arrived in Cairo on Tuesday at the invitation of the Egyptian government. According to sources, the talks will focus on the ongoing Israeli war in Gaza as well as recent developments in the occupied West Bank, al-Quds, and the al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nono stated that the delegation has begun preliminary discussions ahead of full meetings scheduled for Wednesday. The meetings between the Egyptian and Palestinian officials will focus on ways to stop Israel's war on Gaza, allow the entry of aid into the strip and put an end to the suffering of Gazans. The upcoming talks are also expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations with Egypt, enhancing coordination among Palestinian factions, and achieving a national consensus on key political issues. Last month, Hamas leader strongly condemned Israel and the United States for withdrawing from negotiations aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Gaza despite "clear progress" that had been made in the talks. Khalil al-Hayya said the US and Israel were "wasting time" to intentionally hinder talks and facilitate the continued extermination of Palestinians in Gaza. Israel has launched a genocidal war on Gaza since October 7, 2023, after Palestinian resistance fighters waged the surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the Zionist entity in response to the regime's decades-long campaign of death and devastation against Palestinians. The regime's bloody onslaught on Gaza has so far killed 61,722 Palestinians and injured 154,525 others, mostly women and children. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Larijani: Iran respects Lebanon's sovereignty, urges politicians to differentiate between friends, foes Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 3:12 PM The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), Ali Larijani, has dismissed allegations that Iran seeks to meddle in Lebanon's internal affairs, urging Lebanese politicians to carefully differentiate between friends and foes. Speaking at a joint press conference with Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri in Beirut, Larijani conveyed that his visit carries a message of support for the independence and strength of regional countries. In response to US demands for the disarmament of Lebanese resistance groups, he stated that Lebanon is capable of charting its own course. "Countries outside Lebanon should not dictate to Lebanon. The Lebanese nation is a wise nation and can decide for itself, and any decision that the Lebanese government makes in consultation with the Resistance is respected by us," he stated. Larijani also addressed the Lebanese government's recent acceptance of US calls to disarm the resistance, encouraging Lebanon to value those who defend the country against Israeli aggression. "Be careful that Israel does not impose on you through other means what it could not achieve through war. They want to use propaganda to reverse the roles of friend and enemy. The Resistance is a national asset of Lebanon and of all Islamic countries. Your enemy is Israel, which attacked you, and your friend is the one who resisted Israel, so value them," he warned. He urged internal dialogue in Lebanon to resolve divisions on the weapons of the resistance. "The Lebanese government should speak with its various sects and reach a conclusion. The one interfering in Lebanon's affairs is the one who, from thousands of kilometers away, gives you a plan and a timetable for action. We have not given you any plan." The SNSC secretary underscored that Iran never treats its Lebanese allies as tools, and the Lebanese resistance doesn't require guidance from others. Larijani, who previously served as Iran's parliament speaker, highlighted that the Axis of Resistance in the region was formed not by foreign directives but as a response to occupation and aggression. "If you look at the history of the Resistance, you will see it has always arisen in opposition to foreign currents. In Lebanon, when Israel took Beirut, Hezbollah was formed; when Iraq was occupied by America, the Resistance movement emerged; in Yemen, when it was bombed, Resistance arose." On the prospect of Iran providing military support to Lebanon if Israel attacks again, he stated that "if the Lebanese government requests military assistance from us, we will help." Larijani, who visited Lebanon on the back of a trip to Iraq, held talks with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Wednesday morning. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel's Elbit signs major arms deal with undisclosed European country Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 2:16 PM Israel's military manufacturer Elbit Systems says it has signed a $1.64-billion agreement to supply advanced weaponry to an undisclosed European country. The five-year contract covers a broad arsenal of Elbit's latest military technology, including long-range precision-strike rocket artillery and a range of unmanned aerial vehicles, Israeli media reported Wednesday. Many of the drones are designed for tactical and operational missions and incorporate artificial intelligence for enhanced combat capabilities. The package also includes Elbit's intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) platforms, along with secure communications and signals intelligence systems. Electro-optical devices and advanced night-vision equipment are also part of the deal. A full military digitization packagefeaturing next-generation communications hardware and softwarewill also be provided as part of the agreement. Elbit Systems is Israel's largest private arms manufacturer and a key supplier to the regime's military, whose weapons have been extensively used in Tel Aviv's genocidal war on Gaza. The company stands accused of enabling war crimes, with its drones, artillery, and surveillance technologies linked to the deaths of more than 60,000 Palestinians and the destruction of vital infrastructure in the Gaza Strip. The deal comes as Europe itself is under fire for supplying Israel with arms used in Gaza, despite repeated calls from human rights groups to halt all weapons transfers to the regime. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN chief Guterres puts Israel 'on notice' over sexual violence by military forces Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 10:41 AM United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has issued a warning to Israel regarding its potential inclusion in the world body's "blacklist" of entities and groups suspected of involvement in sexual violence during armed conflicts. In a letter addressed to Israeli ambassador Danny Danon, Guterres said that he was "gravely concerned" about the reports of violations against Palestinians by the Israeli military and security forces occurring in multiple prisons, a detention center, and a military base. The UN chief said that Israel could be categorized as abusers in his forthcoming report regarding sexual violence in conflict "due to significant concerns of patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations." "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 noted. Israel has refused entry to UN monitors, and Guterres stated this complicates the ability to reach a "definitive determination" regarding the patterns, trends, and instances of sexual violence perpetrated by Israeli forces. He urged the Tel Aviv regime to implement the necessary actions to cease all acts of sexual violence and permit investigations. In March, UN-backed human rights organizations said Israel had committed acts of sexual and gender-based violence. The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory recorded these violations and charged Israeli forces with rape and sexual violence against Palestinian abductees. Last year, the Israeli military announced the detention of nine soldiers in connection with the sexual abuse of a Palestinian abductee at the notorious Sde Teiman prison. At the time, Israeli media outlets released a video that depicted soldiers engaging in the sexual assault of a male abductee, which the US State Department characterized as "horrific." According to prisoners' rights organizations, Israel has abducted approximately 18,500 Palestinians in the occupied West Bank since October 7, 2023. Some of the individuals have been released. By early July, about 10,800 Palestinians were still incarcerated in Israeli prisons, comprising 49 women and 450 children, marking the highest figures since the Second Intifada in 2000. The conditions under which Palestinian inmates are held by Israel are deplorable, with insufficient hygienic standards. Additionally, Palestinian abductees have faced ongoing torture, harassment, and repression. Palestinian abductees have persistently engaged in open-ended hunger strikes to convey their anger regarding their unlawful detention. Human rights organizations assert that Israel persists in infringing upon all rights and freedoms afforded to abductees under the Fourth Geneva Convention and international laws. As reported by the Palestine Detainees Studies Center, approximately 60 percent of Palestinian abductees held in Israeli jails are afflicted with chronic illnesses, with several of them having died either during their detention or following their release as a result of the severity of their conditions. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'We will stand by Lebanon in any circumstances,' says Iran's top security official in Beirut Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 8:39 AM The secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) has expressed the Islamic Republic's unwavering support for the government and people of Lebanon in various circumstances, as he arrived in Beirut as part of a regional trip following his two-day visit to neighboring Iraq. Ali Larijani's plane landed at Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut on Wednesday morning and he was warmly welcomed as crowds of people held banners that cheered his arrival. The Iranian security chief was warmly welcomed at the airport by Lebanese Foreign Minister Rodrigue Khoury, Iran's Ambassador Mojtaba Amani and a delegation representing Lebanon's Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and the presidency as well as Hezbollah-allied political factions. "Iran and Lebanon both enjoy deep-rooted civilizations, and throughout various centuries, they have had close ties ... For this reason, there exists an emotional bond between Iranian and Lebanese cultures," Larijani told reporters upon his arrival in Beirut. "A strong affection has developed between the two nations thanks to this emotional bond; if the Lebanese people suffer, the Iranian people feel that pain as well," he added. "We will stand by the dear people of Lebanon in any circumstances. We are always seeking to help Lebanon secure its interests." Larijani also stressed that he is scheduled to hold several meetings with Lebanese officials, especially the country's prime minister, president, ministers, and deputies, to hash out bilateral relations and regional developments. Amani, the Iranian ambassador to Beirut, stressed before Larijani's arrival in Beirut that the visit to Lebanon takes place at a critical stage in the Arab country's history. He added that Larijani will express Iran's views in his meetings in Lebanon. The visit comes as the Lebanese government, pressed by the United States and the Israeli regime, is forging ahead with a plan to disarm the popular Hezbollah resistance movement despite opposition by most Lebanese people. Hezbollah successfully fought off two all-out Israeli wars against the country in 2000 and 2006. Since 2023, the resistance movement has been launching daring strikes on the occupied territories in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, who are under a genocidal war by the Israeli regime. Lebanon embraces Larijani's visit Concomitant with Larijani's visit to Beirut, a wave of support has surged across the Lebanese social media with the hashtag #Iran_Is_Support_Not_Supervisor becoming a trending topic among social media users, not least journalists and Muslim communities. The initiative serves as a bold response to mounting pressure from the United States and Israel against Hezbollah regarding the Lebanese resistance movement's disarmament. The hashtag's popularity also signals a clear message opposing Western and Israeli propaganda that attempts to portray Hezbollah as "dependent" on Iran and to label Tehran's role in Lebanon as "paternalistic." The widespread embrace of the social media initiative strongly rejects hostile claims aimed at the Resistance Front, reaffirming once again the solid ties between Iran and resistance groups in Lebanon and across the region. Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire that took effect on November 27, 2024. Under the deal, Israel was required to withdraw fully from Lebanese territorybut has kept forces stationed at a number of strategic sites in southern Lebanon. The Israeli occupation constitutes a clear violation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the terms of the agreement reached last November. Since the implementation of the ceasefire, Israel has violated the agreement more than 3,700 times through repeated assaults on Lebanese territory. Lebanese authorities have warned that the regime's violations of the ceasefire threaten national stability. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel in talks with South Sudan to forcibly transfer Palestinians from Gaza: Report Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 6:34 AM Israel is reportedly negotiating with the war-torn South Sudan to forcibly transfer Palestinians from Gaza, advancing its mass expulsion agenda as Gaza lies in ruins after months of bombardment. According to six sources familiar with the matter, Israel has held discussions with South Sudan about the issue, though the progress of these talks remains unclear. Joe Szlavik, head of a US lobbying firm working with South Sudan, told The Associated Press that he was briefed by South Sudanese officials on the negotiations. An Israeli delegation is expected to visit South Sudan to assess the feasibility of establishing temporary camps for Palestinians, though no date has been confirmed. Szlavik stated that Israel would likely fund the construction of these camps. Two Egyptian officials, who have been aware of Israel's search for a host country for months, revealed that they have actively lobbied South Sudan against accepting Palestinians. Egypt strongly opposes any forced displacement of Gazans, fearing a potential refugee crisis along its shared border with Gaza. Israel's foreign ministry declined to comment and South Sudan's foreign minister did not respond to questions about the talks, The AP reported. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his intent to advance US President Donald Trump's proposal of forcibly transferring a significant portion of Gaza's population through what he describes as "voluntary migration." In February, US President Donald Trump openly expressed his desire to transform Gaza into what he refers to as the "Riviera of the Middle East." The plan would require Gaza's existing population of about two million to be emptied out. Legal experts warn that forcible displacement on such a scale would amount to ethnic cleansing. Reports indicate that Israel has also explored resettlement plans with other African countries, including Sudan and Somalia, as part of its broader strategy. The plans have faced widespread condemnation, with Palestinians, human rights organizations, and numerous world leaders denouncing them as a veiled attempt at mass expulsion that would breach international legal standards. Even Palestinians seeking temporary refuge would be reluctant to move to South Sudan, considered one of the world's most unstable nations. 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Saudi Arabia Strongly Condemns Israeli Occupation's Prime Minister's Statements on 'Greater Israel Vision' Saudi Press Agency Wednesday 19/02/1447 Riyadh, August 13, 2025, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation in the strongest terms possible of the statements made by the Prime Minister of the Israeli occupation government regarding the so-called "Vision of Greater Israel," and expresses its outright rejection of the settlement and expansionist plans adopted by the Israeli occupation authorities. The Kingdom affirms the historical and legal right of the Palestinian people to establish their independent and sovereign state on their own land, in accordance with the relevant international laws. The Kingdom also warns the international community against the Israeli occupation's continued flagrant violations, which undermine the foundations of international legitimacy, blatantly infringe on the sovereignty of states, and threaten regional and international peace and security. -- SPA 21:36 Local Time 18:36 GMT 0044 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Forces US Destroyer Out of Territorial Waters Near Scarborough Shoal Sputnik News 20250813 BEIJING (Sputnik) - 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). 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 Navy of the PLA's Southern Theater Command deployed military personnel to track, monitor, warn and oust" the YS warship in line with the law, the military said. 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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York 13 August 2025 The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's briefing by Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General. ** Guest tomorrow Good afternoon. Just to flag that tomorrow, we will have as our guest Susan Jane Ferguson, who is the UN Women Representative for Afghanistan. She will be briefing us virtually from Kabul to discuss the four-year mark of the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. ** Sudan Let me start with the situation in Sudan today. A year ago, in August 2024, famine was confirmed in Zamzam camp and has since spread to areas in Darfur and Kordofan. Currently, 17 areas are classified as "at risk of famine" including parts of Darfur, the Nuba Mountains, Khartoum, and Gezira. Since then, the situation, especially in El Fasher, has only gotten worse as we've been telling you almost on a daily basis. Our friends at the World Food Programme today called for humanitarian access to El Fasher that is facing starvation and remains cut off from humanitarian assistance. The World Food Programme says that, as a coping mechanism, some residents in the area are reportedly surviving on animal fodder and food waste. The World Food Programme continues to provide digital cash support to roughly a quarter-million people in the city, allowing them to buy the dwindling food left in the markets. However, the escalating needs make it imperative to address the hunger situation at a scale that is actually required. We reiterate our concern about the ongoing conflict and renew our calls for all parties to end the violence and resolve to dialogue and to put the interest of their people first. ** Occupied Palestinian Territory Turning to Gaza, we are continuing with our efforts to bring in goods and fuel into the Gaza Strip. Updates from today's movements have yet to arrive back to us here in New York as some missions are still ongoing. But I can tell you that yesterday our teams collected food and fuel from the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings. While more than half of 15 missions coordinated with the Israeli security authorities were facilitated, the remaining ones were either cancelled, denied or impeded. Meanwhile, the entry of goods has improved the market situation in terms of both prices and availability. For example, after peaking at about 600 shekels per bag, which is about the equivalent of $175 I'm told, in the past two weeks, the price of sugar has dropped to an average of 40 shekels, or $12. However, severe cash shortages are preventing families from being able to buy food, being able to buy water and being able to buy medicine. As a reminder, the amount of aid and goods that can be brought into Gaza does not meet the minimum requirements of people who are starving. A ceasefire is critically needed to reach all those in need, along with a sustained and scaled-up flow of aid. Today, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that eight people, including three children, died due to malnutrition and starvation over the past 24 hours. Such reports have become a daily occurrence, reflecting the deepening humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for sustained assistance. Also today, our colleagues at the World Health Organization conducted a refresher training at the Rantissi Children's Hospital to help staff members stay current with new information, focusing on the inpatient management of malnutrition. Rantissi is one of the five nutrition stabilization centres in Gaza, and one of the only two located in Gaza city. The recent surge in malnutrition cases among children has necessitated the establishment and scaling-up of these centres. So far this year, more than 340 children have been admitted for malnutrition treatment at these centres in Gaza and this year, as of August 5th, 49 validated child deaths from malnutrition have been reported, including 39 children under the age of 5. Data collected by ourselves and our partners from over 900 households across Gaza in July indicated continuous trauma leading to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Many people are living in informal shelters that are overcrowded, unsafe and lack space and privacy, especially for women and children. Care staff themselves are traumatized, and today, partners working on protection started providing mental health and psychosocial support for their own teams in Gaza. Our humanitarian colleagues remind us that shelter items are a priority, as supplies have run out, leaving people exposed to the summer heat and with nothing to protect them when winter comes. Many tents and tarpaulins need to be replaced, as they will not be able to withstand the elements. Meanwhile, households also continue to report poor sanitation and lack of clean water. In southern Gaza, the Israeli-supplied water pipeline has been damaged for almost a week now, impacting water supply for thousands of people in the area. ** Syria Moving to Syria. The UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) today said that the recent violence in Sweida has left a heavy toll on the community there. At least 22 children were killed and 21 more were injured. During the violence in July and early August, vital infrastructure such as water and electricity networks were reportedly critically damaged in the fighting. At least five health centres were under attack back in July, with two physicians killed, and ambulances obstructed, and that's according to the World Health Organization. To address these issues, UNICEF has recently deployed fourteen mobile health and nutrition teams and provided health supplies and nutrition supplies to more than 4,000 children and women, as well as safe drinking water and fuel for water pumping stations benefiting more than 30,000 people. During the violence, more than 190,000 people, mainly women and children, were forced to flee their homes. We underscore that in order to assist those in need, and ensure an effective response, it is critical that humanitarians and commercial goods have unhindered access to the most impacted communities there. ** Sri Lanka And a report published today by the UN Human Rights Office calls on the Government of Sri Lanka to seize the historic opportunity to break with entrenched impunity and implement transformative reforms. The report also calls for the Government to deliver long-overdue justice and accountability for serious violations and abuses committed in the past, including international crimes. Volker Turk, the High Commissioner for Human Rights noted that today, an opportunity presents itself for Sri Lanka to break from the past, with the leadership pledging a fresh direction on long-standing issues. He emphasized the need for this process to start with a clear and formal acknowledgment of the violations, abuses and crimes that occurred, including during the civil war. The report comes shortly after Mr. Turk's official visit to the country, where he engaged with the Government, civil society, victims' groups, political parties and religious leaders. The full update is on the interweb, and I am done. ** Questions and Answers Spokesman : Edie then, Gabriel. Question : Thank you, Steph. Going back to the 49 children who've died of malnutrition, including 39 of them under the age of 5. Is that figure just from the five nutrition centres that you mentioned before? Spokesman : Those are recorded numbers. There may very well be others who have died from the same causes that were not recorded either by ourselves or by the local health authorities. Gabriel? Question : Thank you, Steph. President Trump's Special Envoy, Steve Witkoff, was in New York yesterday. He met with the US Mission, holding meetings there. Do you know if any UN officials took part in any meetings with Witkoff yesterday? Spokesman : Yes. Joyce Msuya, our Assistant Secretary-General in charge of the Department of Humanitarian Affairs, met with Mr. Witkoff. They had a constructive discussion on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need to speedily scale up aid into Gaza. Benno, then Ibtisam. Question : Sorry. Regarding humanitarian aid in Gaza, I understand that your bottom line is, it's not enough, and there's still a lot of blocking, I guess. But can you tell us it seemed to have gotten a little bit better? Is that a correct assumption? And could you elaborate? Spokesman : There is a bit more volume that we're seeing, but nowhere what we had during the ceasefire, nowhere where we need to be. Question : Are you in any way able to put a number on this as well? Spokesman : We're trying to kind of crunch numbers because, as you know, that counting trucks isn't always effective. So it's also... we've seen, there's aid that's delivered to the Israeli side of the crossings. Then there's the aid that we actually manage to pick up. Then there's the aid that often gets looted or self-distributed on the way to the distribution points, and there's the aid that we're actually able to distribute. So we're trying to crunch some numbers to give you a better perspective. Ibtisam Azem then Dezhi. Question : Thank you. On Sudan, so you said that there are areas, like pockets or new areas that are affected by famine. Do you have numbers? And could you remind us please, why? Actually, of course, the war, but not everywhere, war results in famine for civilians. So who is not allowing food distribution in these areas and access? Spokesman : We've had at various times, the various parties, the two parties to the conflict hinder the distribution of humanitarian aid. We had reports yesterday, in the Abu Shouk Camp, if I'm not mistaken, local authorities told us that it was likely RSF attacks. The famine that we're seeing are in places that we just cannot get to, right, and that are just blockaded by the continued fighting. We saw, I think this was early July, the tragic attack on a UN convoy where our colleagues and local colleagues had travelled, I think, more than 1,800 kilometres, only to be attacked, just as they were getting to Al Fasher. So the conflict in itself is the number one culprit in the dire humanitarian situation. And of course, on top of that, you had the challenges that Sudan was facing beforehand. Question : Sorry, I have another question. On Gaza, the health ministry, the local health ministry in Gaza is reporting that the death of famine breached 235 people, including 106 children. Could you confirm that? Spokesman : I had numbers yesterday. We'll see if they're updated, but I reported on numbers yesterday. But let me see if I can update them. Dezhi? Question : Yes. A follow-up on the situation in Palestine. Today, Israeli foreign minister said again that Israel will not allow the implementation of the Two-State Solution. I can quote him a little bit. He said... [cross-talk] Spokesman : You don't need to... Question : He said a Palestinian State within the 1967 lines would place Israel's population centre in grave danger, and he called that a suicidal action. Is the Secretary-General disappointed on this statement? And more importantly, without the support of Israel, how could this, can be implemented? Spokesman : I'll just say we're not surprised by the statement. We continue to be committed to the implementation of a two-State solution. Many Member states are. You saw the meetings that took place here in July. There will likely be another meeting, a much more high-level meeting taking place during the General Assembly. We can't think of another solution for Palestine and Israel to exist and to coexist in peace and security. Question : I checked the declaration of the State of Israel, and I quote this. He said: On the strength of the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly hereby declare the establishment of a Jewish state in Israel in Eretz, Israel, to be known as the State of Israel. So they use UN, one of the reasons they established the State of Israel, is the resolution of the United Nations General Assembly. Now they denied the two-State solution, which is also from a GA resolution. How do you see this kind of inconsistency? Spokesman : Listen, you are the journalist. You can analyse. You can do the compare and contrast. You know what our position is. It is unwavering. It is very clear, and it is very direct. Sinan. I'll get back to you. Question : Thank you, Stephane. I have two questions. First, what is Secretary-General's reaction to ongoing eruptions of violence between Syrian government and Syrian democratic forces? Spokesman : We're very concerned about what we're seeing, and we would like to see it move in a different direction, a more peaceful direction. Question : Second question is, as you know, there was a meeting scheduled in Paris between Syrian Democratic Forces and the transitional government. But for some reason, I guess, Damascus cancelled this meeting. And do you have any comment on that? Spokesman : Not at this point. Edie? Question : Thank you, Steph. You said that Mr. Witkoff and Joyce Msuya discussed the need to scale up humanitarian aid to Gaza. Was there an agreement to pressure Israel to open more crossings or anything else to try and get aid in? Spokesman : Listen. It was a very, I mean... and constructive, I think sometimes that can be, has a negative connotation, but it was actually a very good meeting. I think it was very good for our colleagues to be able to speak to Mr. Witkoff directly, pass on our concerns. The US side passed on their concerns, and I think we will continue to be in contact with him and with his team in an effort to remove the roadblocks, both figuratively and literally, that continue to exist, that hamper our ability to deliver humanitarian aid. Question : Was there any indication from Mr. Witkoff that he would talk to the Israelis? Spokesman : I mean, it's clear that Mr. Witkoff is in constant contact with the Israelis, and we'll see how the situation evolves. Okay. On that note, I was going to say good weekend, but it's a bit early for that. It's too early. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Malnutrition deaths mark 'latest in the war on children' in Gaza: UNRWA chief 13 August 2025 - At least 100 children in Gaza have died from malnutrition and hunger, prompting humanitarians to underscore the need to speed up medical evacuations from the enclave while also allowing more food to enter. These young deaths are "the latest in the war on children and childhood in Gaza," Philippe Lazzarini, head of UN Palestine refugee agency UNRWA, said in a tweet on Wednesday. The toll also includes some 40,000 boys and girls reported killed or injured due to bombardment and airstrikes, at least 17,000 unaccompanied and separated children, and one million deeply traumatised youngsters who are not getting an education. "Children are children," he said. "No one should stay silent when children die, or are brutally deprived of a future, wherever these children are, including in Gaza." A sombre reunion Thousands of sick children in Gaza need urgent medical evacuation, according to UN aid coordination office OCHA. Olga Cherevko, a spokesperson for the agency, recalled the moment she recognized a young girl requiring treatment in a Gaza hospital after a year's interval, once again suffering from malnourishment. "I remembered her long eyelashes," the veteran humanitarian told UN News, describing seven-year-old Janah, who she came across at Gaza City's Patient Friendly Hospital on Tuesday. "The first time I met her was in the IMC Field Hospital in southern Gaza in April 2024. Back then, she was severely malnourished and was getting treatment. And she gradually became better and was released eventually and went home." Evacuation saves lives However, Janah was now back in hospital "because the malnutrition became aggravated and the condition that she has also is not properly diagnosed and cannot be properly diagnosed." The girl is on a list of people to be medically evacuated for treatment outside Gaza. The most recent evacuations took place last week when the World Health Organization (WHO) supported the transfer of 15 critically ill children to Jordan, but more than 14,800 people are still waiting. Ms. Cherevko stressed the importance of ensuring that evacuations continue to save as many lives as possible. More aid needed She also pointed out that for children and adults with pre-existing conditions, their situation becomes worse with malnutrition. "It wouldn't be this way if they had proper nutrition, because these conditions existed before the starvation crisis and they weren't getting as sick as they are now," she said. "This is why it's imperative to make sure that we have proper conditions on the ground for adequate volumes of supplies to be entering - everything from food to medicine to nutrition to shelter," she continued. "And these lifelines have to be really enabled for us to be able to deliver this aid to the people in need." Dying from hunger Her appeal comes as the Gaza health authorities reported on Wednesday that eight people, including three children, died due to malnutrition and starvation over the past 24 hours. "Such reports have become a daily occurrence, reflecting the deepening humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for sustained assistance," UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told journalists in New York. He said WHO also conducted a refresher training at the Rantissi Children's Hospital in Gaza City on Wednesday, focusing on the inpatient management of malnutrition. Rantissi is one of the five nutrition stabilization centres in the enclave and the course aimed to help staff members stay current with new information. "The recent surge in malnutrition cases among children has necessitated the establishment and scaling-up of these centres," he explained. Since January, more than 340 children have been admitted for malnutrition treatment. As of 5 August, 49 validated child deaths from malnutrition have been reported, with 39 among children under the age of five. "There may very well be others who have died from the same causes that were not recorded" either by the Organization or by local health authorities, Mr. Dujarric said in response to a reporter's question. Trauma and mental health issues In other developments, data collected by the UN and partners from over 900 households across Gaza in July indicated continuous trauma leading to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Care staff also are traumatised, and partners working in the protection sector have started providing mental health and psychosocial support for their personnel. Meanwhile, UN efforts to bring aid into the Gaza Strip continue. Teams collected food and fuel from the Kerem Shalom and Zikim border crossings on Tuesday and other missions are still ongoing. Goods enter but cash is low Mr. Dujarric said the entry of goods has improved the market situation in terms of both prices and availability. For example, a bag of sugar now averages 40 shekels, roughly $12, per bag, after peaking at about 600 shekels, equivalent to about $175. "However, severe cash shortages are preventing families from being able to buy food, being able to buy water and being able to buy medicine," he said. Humanitarians have repeatedly stressed that the amount of aid and goods that can be brought into Gaza does not meet the minimum requirements of the population. They continue to call for a ceasefire and for aid flows to be scaled up. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Security Council rejects creation of rival government in Sudan 13 August 2025 - The UN Security Council has rejected the Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) declaration last month of a rival administration in parts of Sudan it controls, warning the move threatens the country's unity and risks worsening the brutal conflict between the militia and forces of the military government. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Council members said the step posed "a direct threat to Sudan's territorial integrity" and could fragment the country, fuel the fighting, and deepen an already dire humanitarian crisis. Ambassadors reaffirmed "unwavering" support for Sudan's sovereignty, independence and unity, stressing that unilateral actions that undermine these principles jeopardise not only Sudan's future but also peace and stability across the wider region. The Council called on the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces to return to talks aimed at reaching a lasting ceasefire and creating the conditions for a political settlement involving all political and social groups. The goal, they said, is a credible, inclusive transition to a civilian-led government that can lead the country towards democratic elections and deliver "a peaceful, stable and prosperous future" in line with the Sudanese people's aspirations. Flashpoints in Darfur and Kordofan The statement recalled the Council's resolution 2736 (2024), which demands the RSF lift its siege of El Fasher, halt the fighting, and de-escalate tensions in and around the North Darfur capital. Famine and extreme food insecurity are at risk of spreading in the city, which has been under siege since April 2024. Members voiced alarm over reports of a renewed RSF offensive this week in El Fasher and urged the group to allow "unhindered humanitarian access" to the city. The Council also expressed grave concern over reported attacks in Sudan's Kordofan region in recent weeks, reportedly carried out by both sides, which have caused large numbers of civilian deaths. They also voiced deep concern about the impact of the conflict on humanitarian operations. Demands for access Council members pressed all parties to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access in line with international law, to protect civilians, and to abide by their obligations under both resolution 2736 and the 2023 Jeddah Declaration. They stressed that perpetrators of serious violations must be held to account. They also urged all UN Member States to avoid any external interference that fuels conflict and instability, support efforts for durable peace, and comply with relevant international law and Council resolutions, including resolution 2750. Backing for UN envoy The Council reiterated its commitment to supporting the people of Sudan in their quest for peace, security, stability and prosperity. It also voiced full support for the Secretary-General's Personal Envoy, Ramtane Lamamra, and his work with the warring sides and civil society to secure a sustainable settlement through dialogue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Only hunger and bombs' for besieged civilians in Sudan's El Fasher 13 August 2025 - UN human rights chief Volker Turk has expressed outrage over Monday's deadly large-scale attack by the Rapid Support Forces militia on El Fasher, the capital of Sudan's North Darfur state, which has been besieged by the RSF since April last year. At least 57 civilians were killed in the attack, which included the Abu Shouk displacement camp on the outskirts of the city, and UN human rights office, OHCHR, is also following up on allegations of summary executions there. "It is with dismay that we yet again witness an unimaginable horror inflicted upon civilians in El Fasher, who have endured over a year of siege, persistent attacks and dire humanitarian conditions," said Mr. Turk. Serial attacks "Such repeated attacks on civilians, which raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law, are totally unacceptable and must stop." Between January and June, the RSF - which has been battling forces of the military government for control of Sudan for over two years - has attacked the Abu Shouk camp at least 16 times, killing at least 212 and leaving 111 others injured. "Once again, I am raising the alarm about the serious risk of ethnically motivated persecution as the RSF tries to seize control of El Fasher and Abu Shouk camp," Mr. Turk stressed, reiterating his call to protect civilians and urging humanitarian pauses in besieged areas to reach those in need. Human rights violations in Zamzam UN human rights officials recently interviewed survivors of the RSF's devastating assault on Zamzam camp, 15 kilometres south of El Fasher, where famine was confirmed in August 2024. Testimonies corroborated previous documentation of serious human rights abuses against civilians during a particularly deadly attack on Zamzam camp in April 2025, including killings, widespread rape and gang rape, enforced disappearances and torture. "I urge third States to use all their influence to put an end to these violations," said Mr. Turk. "Accountability is crucial to break this cycle of persistent and egregious violations." Deepening hunger A year after famine was first confirmed in Zamzam, hundreds of thousands are still trapped in El Fasher, cut off from World Food Programme (WFP) assistance and facing deepening hunger. Trade routes and supply lines entering El Fasher are blocked, resulting in soaring prices and the cessation of most community kitchens' operations. Some residents are reportedly surviving on animal fodder and food waste. "Everyone in El Fasher is facing a daily struggle to survive," said Eric Perdison, WFP's Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa. "Without immediate and sustained access," for humanitarians, Perdison added, "lives will be lost." Sudan's conflict, which began in April 2023, has created the world's largest hunger crisis: around 25 million people - half the country's population - face acute hunger, and 3.5 million women and children face malnutrition. From El Fasher to Tawila Many victims of the attack on the Zamzam camp and those suffering from hunger in El Fasher fled to the Tawila camp, 75 kilometres away. "Hunger forced us to leave," said eight-year-old Sondos, who told WFP she had fled with her family after weeks of surviving on millet. There was "only hunger and bombs," she testified, with shells raining down on the city. Another Tawila resident, 47-year-old Mohamed, travelled from Zamzam to El Fasher before making it to Tawila. People died of thirst along the way, he said. "Many of them were begging for water. Each person had to have only one sip, just enough to reach their stomach." But even when people make it to Tawila, the camp's makeshift tents offer little protection from the rainy season just beginning. WFP assistance For the Tawila camp's roughly 400,000 residents, WFP rations of nutrient-packed high-energy biscuits, sorghum, vegetable oil and salt are often their only sustenance. They are just some of the four million Sudanese that WFP supports monthly. This assistance has helped reduce catastrophic hunger in parts of Central and West Darfur. However, these gains are fragile: "WFP is ready with trucks full of food assistance to send into El Fasher," says Corinne Fleischer, WFP's Director of Supply Chain and Delivery. "We urgently need guarantees of safe passage." The RSF has yet to agree a pause in fighting to allow humanitarian goods to enter the city. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN says Sri Lanka has 'historic opportunity' to end impunity, deliver justice By Vibhu Mishra 13 August 2025 - Sri Lanka's Government has a "historic opportunity" to end decades of impunity and deliver justice for victims of past violations, the UN human rights office (OHCHR) has said, urging sweeping reforms to address crimes committed during and after the country's civil war. The 26-year conflict, from 1983 to 2009, pitted Government forces against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) - more commonly referred to as the Tamil Tigers - who sought an independent state for the island's Tamil minority in the north and east. The civil war claimed an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 lives, and thousands more were forcibly disappeared, their fates still unknown. Hundreds of thousands were also displaced from their homes. The final months were among the bloodiest, with tens of thousands of civilians killed in indiscriminate shelling, extrajudicial executions, and other violations of international law committed by both sides. Turn pledges into results In a new report issued on Wednesday, UN human rights chief Volker Turk said the Government's pledges to deliver justice, restore the rule of law, and eliminate discrimination and divisive politics must finally yield concrete results. "Today, an opportunity presents itself for Sri Lanka to break from the past," he said. "It now needs a comprehensive roadmap to translate these commitments into results." The report follows Mr. Turk's recent visit to Sri Lanka, where he met officials, civil society, victims' groups, political parties and religious leaders, and travelled to Trincomalee, Jaffna and Kandy - among the worst-affected areas. It calls for a clear acknowledgment of the violations, abuses and crimes committed - including during the civil war - and recognition of the State's responsibility and that of its security forces personnel as well as non-state armed groups, including the LTTE. "The pain and suffering of victims remains palpable and their demands for truth and justice must be addressed," Mr. Turk stressed. Call for sweeping reforms The report recommends comprehensive security sector reform and broader constitutional, legal and institutional changes to meet international human rights obligations. It welcomes the planned creation of an independent Public Prosecutor's office. It also urges the establishment of a dedicated judicial mechanism, including an independent special counsel, to handle cases involving serious human rights violations and grave breaches of international humanitarian law. Other recommendations include the release of military-held land in the north and east, repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), and the release of long-term PTA detainees - some imprisoned for decades. The report further calls for amendments or repeal of several restrictive laws, including those relating to data and online safety, NGOs, and civil and political rights. International support While the primary responsibility for investigating and prosecuting crimes lies with the Government, the report calls for complementary international support. It urges UN Member States to contribute to accountability and reconciliation efforts, leveraging OHCHR's strengthened capacity to undertake related work. "These measures are crucial to realizing the Government's vision of 'national unity' and above all ensuring there can never be recurrence of past violations," Mr. Turk said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address World News in Brief: Casualties in Ukraine, Burkina Faso aid helicopter blast, Uganda urged to release opposition leaders 13 August 2025 - July saw the highest civilian casualties in Ukraine since May 2022, with 286 people killed and 1,388 injured, according to the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in the country (HRMMU). The monthly total also marked a three-year high, topping June's figure, with HRMMU verifying civilian deaths and injuries in 18 of Ukraine's 24 regions. "For the second month in a row, the number of civilian casualties in Ukraine hits a new three-year high," said Danielle Bell, Head of HRMMU. "Only the first three months after the Russian Federation launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine saw more killed and injured than in this past month," she added. Rising toll Numbers for the first seven months of 2025 were 48 per cent higher than in the same period last year. Long-range weapons, including missiles and suicide drones, accounted for nearly 40 per cent of casualties. On 31 July, Kyiv saw its deadliest attack since the start of the full-scale invasion, with 31 people killed, including five children, when a missile struck a residential building. Short-range drones alone caused 24 per cent of casualties, reflecting a sharp rise since mid-2024, as documented in a bulletin published by HRMMU in June 2025. The steepest monthly increase came from aerial bombs, which killed 67 and injured 209 in July, compared with 114 casualties in June. Strikes hit a penal colony in Zaporizhzhia and an apartment building in Donetsk, killing at least 21 people in total. "Whether you are in a hospital or a prison, at home or at work, close to or far away from the frontline, if you are in Ukraine today, you are at risk of getting killed or injured by the war," Ms. Bell said. Burkina Faso: Blast hits near UN aid helicopter in Solle A UN chartered helicopter delivering food aid to the town of Solle in northwest Burkina Faso was caught in an explosion shortly after landing on Tuesday, injuring two people. The aircraft, chartered by the World Food Programme (WFP), had just unloaded humanitarian supplies when the blast occurred nearby. One crew member and a Government partner were hurt and are now receiving medical treatment. The helicopter sustained only minor damage and was moved to safety, WFP said. Flights to Solle have been temporarily halted while authorities investigate the incident. Critical operation In conflict-affected areas of Burkina Faso, WFP's humanitarian air operations are critical for delivering life-saving assistance to hard-to-reach communities most in need. WFP aims to assist 315,000 of the most vulnerable people during the lean season from June to August, when families have exhausted their food stocks. In a statement, WFP reaffirmed the agency's "unwavering commitment to support populations in need and to reach the most remote communities with humanitarian assistance." Rights office urges Uganda to release opposition leaders on bail The UN human rights office (OHCHR) on Wednesday expressed serious concern at repeated denials of bail in Uganda for opposition leader Kizza Besigye and his associate Obeid Lutale. Both individuals have been denied bail three times since they were abducted in neighbouring Kenya and returned to Uganda last November. In dismissing their latest request, the High Court found them ineligible for mandatory bail merely because they had been detained in civil prison for less than the 180 days required to qualify for release, a duration that did not account for their prior deprivation of liberty following their abduction and forced return. "We urge the authorities to reconsider the decision and grant them bail, and to ensure that any legal proceedings against them are fully in line with international human rights law," said OHCHR spokesperson Liz Throssell. Human rights concerns The UN human rights office in Uganda closed its operations there in 2023 after the Government decided to end cooperation with OHCHR. At the time, High Commission Volker Turk expressed concern about the run-up to the 2026 elections, amid an increasingly hostile environment impacting human rights defenders, civil society actors and journalists. Other UN human rights mechanisms also condemned laws criminalizing same sex relations and the call for the use of the death penalty for convicted offenders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Occupied Palestinian Territory Gaza: Daily reports of deaths due to malnutrition and starvation OCHA warns that Israeli air strikes and bombardment across several areas of the Gaza Strip - including Gaza governorate - continue to kill, injure and displace people and destroy civilian infrastructure. Today, the Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that eight people, including three children, died due to malnutrition and starvation over the past 24 hours. Such reports have become a daily occurrence, reflecting the deepening humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for sustained assistance. Today, the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted a refresher training at Rantissi Children's Hospital for 17 staff members, focusing on the inpatient management of malnutrition. Rantissi is one of the five nutrition stabilization centres in Gaza, and one of only two located in Gaza city. The recent surge in malnutrition cases among children has necessitated the establishment and scaling-up of these centres. So far this year, more than 340 children have been admitted for malnutrition treatment at these centres in Gaza - and this year, as of 5 August, 49 child deaths from malnutrition have been reported, including 39 children under the age of 5. Meanwhile, data collected by the UN and its partners from more than 900 households across Gaza in July indicated continuous trauma leading to mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Many people are living in informal shelters that are overcrowded, unsafe and lack space and privacy, especially for women and children. Care staff themselves are traumatized - and today, partners working on protection started providing mental health and psychosocial support for their teams in Gaza through "care for carers" sessions. OCHA notes that shelter items are a priority, as supplies have run out, leaving people exposed to the summer heat and with nothing to protect them when winter comes. Many tents and tarpaulins need to be replaced, as they will not be able to withstand the elements. This is particularly urgent amid the announced expansion of Israeli military operations in Gaza city, which would have catastrophic consequences for people enduring starvation and repeated displacement. Meanwhile, households continue to report poor sanitation and lack of clean water. In southern Gaza, the Israeli-supplied water pipeline, Mekorot, has been damaged for almost a week now, affecting water supply for thousands of people in the area. WHO reports that since October 2023, 7,560 patients - including more than 5,000 children - have been evacuated for medical treatment outside of the Gaza Strip, with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates receiving the most patients. However, it is estimated that more than 14,800 people still need medical evacuation. Yesterday, UN teams in Gaza collected food and fuel from the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings. While more than half of 15 missions coordinated with the Israeli authorities were facilitated, the remaining ones were either denied, impeded or cancelled. Meanwhile, the entry of goods has somewhat improved the market situation in terms of both prices and availability. For example, after peaking at 600 shekels per bag - about $175 - in the past two weeks, the price of sugar has dropped to an average of 40 shekels, or $12. However, severe cash shortages are preventing families from buying food, water and medicine. OCHA underscores that the amount of aid and goods that can be brought into Gaza does not meet the minimum requirements of people who are starving. A ceasefire is critically needed to reach all those in need, along with a sustained and scaled-up flow of aid. West Bank: Mounting settler violence displaces Palestinian communities OCHA warns that settler attacks have intensified in the West Bank. Between January and mid-July, about 3,000 Palestinians, primarily from herding and Bedouin communities, have been displaced by settler violence and access restrictions. Other communities, such as Ras Ein al-Auja in the Jordan Valley, are at imminent risk of forcible transfer. OCHA continues to call for the protection of these herding and Bedouin communities, who have been living in the area for decades and are facing mounting pressure to leave. Posted on 13 August 2025 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Security Council Press Statement on Sudan Press Release Security Council SC/16144 13 August 2025 The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Eloy Alfaro de Alba (Panama): The members of the Security Council rejected the announcement of the establishment of a parallel governing authority in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). They 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. The members of the Security Council unequivocally reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan. 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, involving all Sudanese political and social actors to re-establish a credible and inclusive political transition towards a democratically elected national Government following a civilian-led transitional period to realize the aspirations of the Sudanese people for a peaceful, stable and prosperous future, in full accordance with the principles of national ownership. The members of the Security Council also recalled resolution 2736 (2024), 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 El Fasher where famine and extreme food insecurity conditions are at risk of spreading. They also expressed grave concern about incoming reports of a renewed RSF offensive in El Fasher. The members of the Security Council urged the RSF to allow unhindered humanitarian access to El Fasher. The Members of the Security Council also condemned reported attacks in Sudan's Kordofan region in recent weeks by the parties, which have caused the deaths of high numbers of civilians. Council members 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. The members of the Security Council demanded that all parties to the conflict protect civilians and abide by their obligations under international law, and fulfil resolution 2736 (2024), as well as abide by their commitments under the Jeddah Declaration. They further called on all parties to the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law. The members called for all perpetrators of serious violations to be held accountable. The members of the Security Council urged all Member States to refrain from external interference which 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, including resolution 2750 (2024). The members of the Security Council also reaffirmed the Council's solidarity and unwavering commitment to continue supporting Sudan and its people in their aspirations to restore lasting peace, security, stability and prosperity in their country for the benefit of all Sudanese. The members of the Security Council reiterated their full support for the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General, Ramtane Lamamra, and his efforts to use his good offices with the parties and civil society, leading to a sustainable solution to the conflict through dialogue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WFP Statement on Helicopter incident in Solle World Food Programme 13 August 2025 Dakar, Senegal: On 12 August, a WFP-chartered helicopter landed in Solle, north-west Burkina Faso, to deliver humanitarian cargo. Shortly after landing, an explosion occurred nearby. One crew member and one government partner sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care. The helicopter received minor damage but was safely relocated away from Solle. The incident is under investigation, and air operations to Solle are temporarily suspended. WFP's humanitarian air operations are critical for delivering life-saving assistance to hard-to-reach communities most in need. In conflict-affected regions of Burkina Faso, WFP plans to reach 315,000 of the most vulnerable people during the lean season (June-August) when families' food stocks are exhausted. WFP reaffirms its unwavering commitment to support populations in need and to reach the most remote communities with humanitarian assistance. ENDS NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China boosts aid to UN Palestinian refugee agency, urges global backing Global Times By Xinhua Published: Aug 14, 2025 07:22 AM China signed an agreement on Wednesday to contribute to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and called for continued international support for the body, which says it faces an "existential crisis" from the war in Gaza and a severe funding gap. The contribution agreement, part of Beijing's annual donation, was signed in the Jordanian capital by Zeng Jixin, head of China's office to the State of Palestine, and Karim Amer, UNRWA's director of partnerships. Zeng praised what he called UNRWA's "indispensable" role in providing humanitarian assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees. He said China has increased its annual donation and provided medical supplies and other aid since the Gaza conflict erupted. "China calls on the international community to continue supporting UNRWA," Zeng said, adding that Beijing was ready to work toward ending the fighting and achieving a just, lasting solution based on a two-state framework. The UNRWA has faced a major funding crisis after several key donor countries suspended contributions following Israeli accusations that a dozen of the agency's staff participated in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks. While many donors have since resumed funding, the agency says it is still grappling with "very big" financial challenges. Juliette Touma, UNRWA's communications director, said the agency is also undergoing an "existential crisis" amid the devastating conflict in Gaza, where at least 340 of its staff have been killed since the war began. "China has been a dear friend of the Palestinian refugees, a dear friend of UNRWA. Their contributions are always welcome," Touma said, expressing gratitude for Beijing's support. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran calls 'Greater Israel' a 'diabolical idea reflecting Netanyahu's fascist intent' Iran Press TV Thursday, 14 August 2025 3:43 AM The Foreign Ministry has issued a strong condemnation of recent remarks made by Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu concerning his aspirations for realization of the so-called "Greater Israel" scheme. In a statement on Wednesday, spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei described the scheme as an unmistakable declaration of the regime's intention to extend its occupation over independent nations, including Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Such ambitions, he added, represented a blatant breach of the United Nations Charter and fundamental principles of the international law. Highlighting the regime's persistent violations and atrocities, particularly its ongoing occupation and systemic killings in historic Palestine, Baghaei said, "The admission by Israeli premier that he sees himself as carrying a 'historical and spiritual mission' to realize the diabolical idea is a clear indication of a fascist intent." Realization of such plot would translate into violation of the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of regional countries and imposition of occupation over Muslim nations, the official warned. According to the spokesperson, such ambitions had to be firmly condemned by the UN secretary-general, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and all governments as a blatant breach of the principles and objectives of the UN Charter and the peremptory norms of the international law. Fresh call to aid, support Gaza Baghaei also drew attention to the dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where the regime has been waging a war of genocide since October 2023 and using starvation as a weapon of war. He pointed to the mass killings of innocent Palestinians and the deliberate imposition of hunger and thirst upon the coastal sliver's population. The official called for immediate and decisive action from Arab and Muslims countries to endeavor towards enabling delivery of essential aid to the people of Gaza, support their legitimate right to resist occupation and apartheid, help end the genocide, and ensure that Zionist perpetrators were held fully accountable and faced punishment. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Four Years On, UN Says Taliban Close To 'Erasing' Afghan Women From Public Life By RFE/RL August 14, 2025 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. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/un-taliban-erasing-afghan- women-from-public-life/33501215.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Royal Scots spread heroic rescue of British POWs by Chinese fishermen to wider audience 16:58, August 13, 2025 By Xu Liang ( People's Daily Online The Royal Regiment of Scotland (the Royal Scots) made an announcement on Aug. 12, 2025 that the award-winning documentary "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru" would be available to stream online in the United Kingdom and Ireland starting from Aug. 15. According to the announcement, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), the Royal Scots have decided to give more people who havent seen the film the opportunity to watch it and learn about this important part of history. Retired British soldier Brian Finch, who has been committed to collecting historical documents related to the Lisbon Maru, speaks during a special screening of the documentary "The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru" in London, Britain, Aug. 15, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Ying) 83 years ago, the Japanese cargo ship Lisbon Maru was transporting British prisoners of war (POWs) when it sank off the coast of east China's Zhejiang Province. More than 800 lives were lost, but local Chinese fishermen rescued 384 POWs, an extraordinary act of humanity that remains a powerful link between China and Britain. In another similar post earlier this month on Facebook, the Royal Scots highlighted the role of Chinese fishermen in rescuing British POWs and provided a vivid summary of the circumstances surrounding the sinking of the Lisbon Maru. The post stated, "about three to five miles away were some islands towards which a swift current was running, but the islands appeared to be rocky and dangerous. Some men reached the islands, but many were lost on the rocky coast. Others were picked up by Chinese junks and sampans, which put out from the islands." "These Chinese treated the men with great kindness, giving them food and clothing from their meagre supplies and looking after them until the Japanese landing party came to recover them," it added. The post prompted an outpouring of interest, with descendants and relatives of British POWs and history enthusiasts exchanging archival records, photographs, and film references in the Facebook group "Lisbon Maru Relatives and Friends." Some of them expressed hope to see more film and television productions that recreate the history of the sinking of the Lisbon Maru. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) Russo-Ukraine War - 13 August 2025 - Day 1267 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 UK Ministry of Defence reported that in July 2025 Russia launched approximately 6,200 one way attack uncrewed aerial systems (OWA UAS) against Ukraine, a new monthly high, surpassing the approximately 5,600 launched in June 2025. Russian OWA UAS continue to be combined with Russia's premier missiles in attempts to increase the missiles' survivability and complicate Ukrainian air defence efforts. Several daily highs for Russian OWA UAS use were also observed in July 2025, with significant numbers of decoy UAS employed alongside live warhead variants. This has become standard practice for Russia's attritional air strategy. Russian Long Range Aviation (LRA) bombers have maintained their operational tempo, continuing to demonstrate the resilience and retained capability of the fleet following Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb on 01 June 2025. Seven LRA strike packages were observed in July, launching more than 70 of its premier munitions. Ukraine continues its own OWA UAS strikes deep into Russian territory, attempting to disrupt Russian military industry and fuel production. Russian air defence continues its struggles in protecting both military and industry locations within range of Ukraine's ever improving UAS capabilities. However, it is likely that Russia will respond to Ukrainian successes both in kind, and with its more destructive LRA fleet, with the Kremlin frustrated by Ukraine's ability to penetrate its extensive defensive posture. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that so far, there have been a total of 118 combat clashes. Today, the Russian state launched one missile and 58 aviation strikes, using two missiles and dropping 84 controlled bombs. In addition, the Russian zombies engaged 1674 kamikaze drones for impressions and carried out 3820 shelling of the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. Eight clashes with Russian zagarbnikami took place in the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions. The Russian enemy made 12 aviation strikes, dropping 19 controlled bombs, carried out 277 shelling, including 12 - from jet systems of salpovogo fire. Today, Russian forces attacked twice in the South Slobozhans komu direction in the districts of Vovchansk and Figolivka. Three times the Russian aggressor tried to go ahead on Ukrainian positions in the Kupyans komu direction near Golubivka. In the Lyman direction today, Ukrainian defenders repelled six Russian attacks in the areas of settlements Novovodyane, Karpivka, Ridkodub, Kolodyazi and Torske. One fight is going on so far. In the sivers komu direction Ukrainian warriors fought off 11 Russian attacks. Units of the Russian occupiers tried to advance in the areas of Grigorivka, Novoselivka and Pereiznogo, one attack is still ongoing. At the moment in the kramators komu direction, Ukrainian defenders have stopped two enemy attacks. Russian forces attacked in the direction of Stupocok and Predtecinogo. The confrontation is still continuing in the Toretsky direction. Ukrainian troops for today repelled six Russian attacks in the areas of scherbinivka, blunivka and Rusynogo Yar. On the Pokrovsky direction during this day, the Russian aggressor 42 times attacked Ukrainian positions in the areas of the settlements of Volodymyrivka, Nikanorivka, Red Lyman, Novoekonomicne, Rodins ke, Ray, Chunyshine, Zvirove, Kotline, Udacne, Gorihove, Novoukrainka and Dachne. Resisting the Russian pressure, Ukrainian defenders repelled 40 attacks, the fights have not subsided so far. According to preliminary calculations, today Russian forces in the Pokrovsky direction lost 192 people killed and wounded. Ukrainian warriors destroyed a tank, five units of automotive equipment, 18 bpla and bpla antenna. Ukrainian defenders also struck a tank, two cannons and nine shelters for personnel. In the Novopavlovsk direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled nine Russian attacks near the settlements of Maliyivka, Tovste, Shevchenko and Oleksandrograd. Four clashes are ongoing so far. In the Gulyaipil direction, Russian forces made one attempt to advance near Malinivka, was stopped by Ukrainian units. In the orihiv direction, at the moment the Russian opponent has not carried out offensive actions. In the Pridniprovsk direction, Russian forces made four unsuccessful attempts to advance to the positions of Ukrainian units. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Homeland Security Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar Commissions New Coast Guard Fast Response Cutter Earl Cunningham in Kodiak, Alaska Release Date: August 13, 2025 KODIAK, ALASKA -- Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar attended the commissioning of the USCG Earl Cunningham, the service's newest Fast Response Cutter (FRC). The FRC program is a cornerstone of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and President Trump's efforts to transform the U.S. Coast Guard into a more agile, responsive, and capable fighting force. "The Cunningham will play a crucial role in keeping our country safe in a uniquely important region of the world," said Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar. "In the 20th century, security and prosperity were largely defined by the arms race and the space race. Now, in the 21st century, our security and prosperity will be defined by the race to the arctic. State-of-the art vessels like this one will ensure the Coast Guard is ready to take on this generational challenge." "Commissioning the USCGC Earl Cunningham strengthens our ability to control, secure, and defend Alaska's U.S. border and maritime approaches, protect resources vital to our economic prosperity, and respond to crises throughout the Aleutian Islands," said Adm. Kevin Lunday, acting commandant of the Coast Guard. "This crew will honor the heroic legacy and selfless devotion to duty exemplified by Petty Officer Cunningham in the years ahead." Sentinel-class FRCs like the Earl Cunningham are advanced patrol boats at the front line of the service. They are designed for multiple missions, including coastal security, national defense, search and rescue, and drug and migrant interdiction. The Cunningham is the second FRC to be homeported at Coast Guard Base Kodiak, enhancing American presence in the Arctic. It will be the first of many more FRCs that will strengthen our foothold in the Arctic, keep our homeland safe, and keep our enemies at bay. Now, thanks to President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill and Force Design 2028 - a massive injection of $25 billion is coming for the U.S. Coast Guard to protect this region, including: $4.3 Billion for Polar Security Cutters, extending U.S. reach in the Arctic. $3.5 Billion for three Arctic Security Cutters, $816 Million for light and medium domestic icebreaking cutters, & $300 Million for USCGC homeporting in Juneau The Cunningham was accepted by the Coast Guard on March 6, 2025, in Key West, Florida. It is the 58th of 67 FRCs that have been ordered that is in service. It is named after enlisted Coast Guard Hero Earl Cunningham, a World War I veteran and father of three who sacrificed his life during a search and rescue operation on Lake Michigan in February 1936. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Treasury Targets Terrorism and Timeshare Fraud in Mexico U.S. Department of the Treasury August 13, 2025 Scams Targeting U.S. Victims Produce Significant Revenue for CJNG WASHINGTON -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned four Mexican individuals and 13 Mexican companies linked to timeshare fraud led by the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). These individuals and companies are based in or near Puerto Vallarta, a popular tourist destination that also serves as a strategic stronghold for CJNG. A brutally violent cartel, CJNG is a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) that is increasingly supplementing its drug trafficking proceeds with alternative revenue streams such as timeshare fraud and fuel theft. "We are coming for terrorist drug cartels like Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion that are flooding our country with fentanyl," said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. "These cartels continue to create new ways to generate revenue to fuel their terrorist operations. At President Trump's 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." Treasury has taken a series of actions targeting the diverse revenue streams benefitting the cartels, including fuel theft, human smuggling, extortion, and fraud. 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. Those considering the purchase of a timeshare in Mexico should conduct appropriate due diligence. Today's action was taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14059, which targets the proliferation of illicit drugs and their means of production, and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, which targets terrorists and their supporters. Today's action was also taken in coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Government of Mexico's financial intelligence unit, the Unidad de Inteligencia Financiera (UIF). CJNG: VIOLENCE IN PURSUIT OF PROFIT CJNG is considered one of the most powerful cartels in the world. It has conducted intimidating acts of violence, including attacks on the Mexican military and police with military-grade weaponry, the use of drones to drop explosives on Mexican law enforcement, and assassinations and attempted assassinations of Mexican officials. CJNG has also executed its own recruits who defy orders. All of this is perpetrated in furtherance of CJNG's relentless pursuit of illicit proceeds. In addition to drug trafficking, the group's core source of revenue, CJNG is also generating alternative revenue streams through fuel theft, extortion, and timeshare fraud, among other activities. On April 8, 2015, OFAC designated CJNG pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act) for playing a significant role in international narcotics trafficking. On December 15, 2021, OFAC also designated CJNG pursuant to E.O. 14059. On February 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State designated CJNG as an FTO and a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). PARADISE LOST: TIMESHARE FRAUD IN MEXICO Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico Mexico-based cartels have been targeting U.S. owners of timeshares through call centers in Mexico staffed by telemarketers fluent in English. Beginning in about 2012, CJNG took control of timeshare fraud schemes in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, and the surrounding area. These complex scams often target older Americans who can lose their life savings. The lifecycle of these scams can last years, resulting in financial and emotional devastation of the victims while enriching cartels like CJNG. The cartels generally 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 fraud may include timeshare exit scams (a.k.a. timeshare resale scams), timeshare re-rent scams, and timeshare investment scams. The common theme is that victims are asked to pay advance "fees" and "taxes" before receiving money supposedly owed to them. This money never comes, and the victims are continuously told to pay additional "fees" and "taxes" to finalize the transactions. Victims are typically told to send these "fees" and "taxes" via international wire transfers to accounts held at Mexican banks and brokerage houses. After these initial scams, re-victimization scams can occur. The scammers may impersonate law firms, claiming that they can initiate proceedings on behalf of the victims to recover lost funds for an upfront fee. In other instances, scammers impersonate government officials, including OFAC, claiming that victims have engaged in suspicious transactions and demanding "fines" to release their funds or face the risk of imprisonment. On July 16, 2024, Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), OFAC, and the FBI issued a joint Notice on timeshare fraud associated with Mexico-based transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), including in Spanish, to provide financial institutions with an overview of these schemes, associated financial typologies, and red flag indicators. In the six-month period following this Notice, FinCEN received over 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 FinCEN's analysis, U.S. fraud victims sent an average of $28,912 and a median amount of $10,000 per transaction to the suspected scammers potentially working for Mexico-based TCOs. According to the FBI, approximately 6,000 U.S. victims reported losing nearly $300 million between 2019 and 2023 to timeshare fraud schemes in Mexico. In 2024 alone, FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received nearly 900 complaints concerning timeshare fraud schemes in Mexico with reported losses of over $50 million. However, these figures likely underestimate total losses, as the FBI believes the vast majority of victims do not report the scam due to embarrassment, among other reasons. On its website, the FBI has included a timeshare fraud resource page, and FBI's New York Field Office has posted a public service announcement video featuring a victim of timeshare fraud. Victims of timeshare fraud are encouraged to file a complaint with the FBI's IC3 by visiting https://www.ic3.gov. For elder victims, financial institutions may also refer their customers to the Department of Justice's National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (or 833-372-8311). TARGETING TIMESHARE FRAUD Montero Today's action marks the fifth time OFAC has sanctioned those linked, directly or indirectly, to CJNG's timeshare fraud activities, resulting in the designation of over 70 individuals and entities to date. The previous actions occurred on March 2, 2023, April 27, 2023, November 30, 2023, and July 16, 2024. Rivera The three senior CJNG members most involved in timeshare fraud are Julio Cesar Montero Pinzon (Montero), Carlos Andres Rivera Varela (Rivera), and Francisco Javier Gudino Haro (Gudino). These three individuals have also been part of a CJNG enforcement group based in Puerto Vallarta that orchestrates assassinations of rivals and politicians using high-powered weaponry. Gudino On June 2, 2022, OFAC designated Montero pursuant to E.O. 14059. Today, Montero is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being directed by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, CJNG. On April 6, 2021, OFAC designated Rivera and Gudino pursuant to the Kingpin Act. Today, Rivera and Gudino are being sanctioned pursuant to E.O. 14059 and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being directed by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, CJNG. Ibarra The other individual sanctioned today is Puerto Vallarta native Michael Ibarra Diaz Jr. (Ibarra). An ostensibly legitimate businessman involved in the tourism industry, Ibarra is engaged in timeshare fraud on behalf of CJNG. For over 20 years, Ibarra has been involved in the sale and management of timeshares in the Puerto Vallarta area, including just north in the state of Nayarit. Ibarra was trained as an accountant, which is consistent with CJNG's use of professionals to conduct this complicated and highly lucrative scheme. Ibarra is being sanctioned pursuant to E.O. 14059 and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being directed by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, CJNG. Also sanctioned today is Ibarra's corporate network, which is composed of 13 companies. Five of the companiesAkali 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.explicitly acknowledge their involvement in the timeshare industry. Another company involved in timeshare-related transactionsTTR Go, S.A. de C.V.claims only to be a travel agency. Three additional companies are purportedly engaged in 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. 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.). These 13 companies are being sanctioned pursuant to E.O. 14059 and pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, for being owned, controlled, or directed by, or having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Ibarra. SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated or blocked persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked persons. Violations of U.S. sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on U.S. and foreign persons. OFAC may impose civil penalties for sanctions violations on a strict liability basis. OFAC's Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines provide more information regarding OFAC's enforcement of U.S. economic sanctions. In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities involving designated or otherwise blocked persons. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated or blocked person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person. Furthermore, engaging in certain transactions involving the persons designated today may risk the imposition of secondary sanctions on participating foreign financial institutions. OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on opening or maintaining, in the United States, a correspondent account or a payable-through account of a foreign financial institution that knowingly conducts or facilitates any significant transaction on behalf of a person who is designated pursuant to the relevant authority. The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, or to submit a request, please refer to OFAC's guidance on Filing a Petition for Removal from an OFAC List. Click here for more information on the persons designated today. ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf Returns Home from Deployment in Support of Southern Border Operations United States Coast Guard Press Release | Aug. 13, 2025 ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) crew returned to their home port on Coast Guard Base Alameda, California, Sunday, following a 70-day patrol operating along the Southwest maritime boundary line (MBL) near San Diego. Bertholf deployed in support of Operation Border Trident, Coast Guard District Southwest's (CGD-SW) standing operation to counter-illicit maritime activity along the Southwest MBL. Operation Border Trident is a Coast Guard-led interagency approach to detection, monitoring, interdiction, and apprehension operations to combat transnational criminal organizations and illegal alien activity in the California Coastal Region. Bertholf increased Coast Guard operational presence in the area, maintaining border control and territorial integrity of the United States. While at sea executing Operation Border Trident, Bertholf conducted 86 security boardings and queries in the vicinity of San Diego, checking more than 250 IDs and inspecting closed cabin vessels to thwart illegal activity. This included more than 250-crew hours deployed in Bertholf's cutter response boats, providing law enforcement presence and deterrence on the Southwest MBL. Departing Alameda on June 2, Bertholf conducted a change of command followed by an annual readiness assessment and training in San Diego prior to deploying to their assigned operating area. On June 9, 2025, Capt. Andrew Pate relieved Capt. Billy Mees as Bertholf's 10th commanding officer. Beginning on June 10, under the guidance of Afloat Training Organization San Diego, Bertholf conducted the first full Basic Cutter Operations assessment for the Legend-Class national security cutter fleet which included two weeks of drills, evaluations, and training reviews. The crew was tested against simulated shipboard fires and flooding in both the in port and underway environments, as well as shipboard emergencies in various tactical scenarios. Bertholf displayed high proficiency in several complex ship evolutions, including mooring, unmooring, and anchoring. Scoring a 95% average across all training areas, Bertholf earned certifications in naval warfare, damage control, seamanship, navigation, medical, and engineering proficiency. Bertholf was twice diverted to respond to search and rescue tasking, a core responsibility that remains a sacred trust between the U.S. Coast Guard and the maritime public. The first case involved the search for a downed aircraft about 460 miles off San Diego. Bertholf conducted search patterns, including flying its embarked small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) and used one of its cutter response boats as part of a multi-service search effort. Later in the deployment, Bertholf received tasking from Coast Guard Sector San Diego to respond to a person in the water 36 miles west of San Diego reported to be experiencing medical distress. Once on scene, Bertholf response boat crewmembers safely recovered the person in distress and brought them aboard Bertholf for initial medical care. Onboard health services technicians provided medical evaluations and care to stabilize the survivor until they were transferred to Emergency Medical Personnel for further care in San Diego. "Bertholf's crew displayed exceptional proficiency and professionalism recovering the survivor, stabilizing their condition, and conducting a smooth transfer via cutter boat to waiting EMS at Sector San Diego for further transfer to higher level care," said Capt. Andrew Pate, commanding officer of Bertholf. To maintain the cutter's shipboard helicopter operation proficiency, Bertholf conducted 180 helicopter deck landings with U.S. Coast Guard Air Stations (AIRSTA) San Diego and Ventura aircrews. Bertholf also completed 24 fast rope exercises with AIRSTA Ventura and U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team West. Coordination of flight operations provided critical training and proficiency opportunities for helicopter crews and Bertholf's crew, supporting their ability to respond to emergencies requiring shipboard helicopter operations both during the day and at night. Routinely operating independently, far from other U.S. Coast Guard cutters, Bertholf capitalized on several unexpected opportunities to rendezvous at sea with multiple cutters deployed from other districts. Teaming with the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Active (WMEC 618) early in the deployment, the cutters ran several small boat exercises to certify Bertholf's boarding teams for law enforcement operations. Later, while transiting south to evade a hurricane in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Bertholf rendezvoused with the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Storis (WAGB 21), the first polar icebreaker acquired by the U.S. Coast Guard in over 25 years. Storis was partway through its maiden voyage and briefly conducted formation steaming with Bertholf. Finally, Bertholf capitalized on the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle's (WIX 327) visit to the west coast, coordinating a passenger exchange for 36 crew members and formation steaming. Eagle is a 295-foot, three-masted barque used exclusively as a training vessel for future officers of the United States Coast Guard. Bertholf and Eagle were briefly joined by the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Florence Finch (WPC 1157), one of the Coast Guard's newest 154-foot Fast Response Cutters. During this deployment, Bertholf had several opportunities to interact with Department of Defense and international partners. While on a port visit in San Diego, Bertholf's crew hosted the 89th Military Police Brigade and the 716th Military Police Battalion, strengthening relationships between the land and maritime services and enhanced their understanding of domain awareness capabilities in support of Operation Border Trident. "I couldn't be prouder of the Bertholf crew," said Pate. "Their proficiency, professionalism, and pride throughout this deployment reflect a selfless commitment to defeating adversaries and providing security for the American people we serve." Bertholf is named for Commodore Ellsworth Price Bertholf, the Coast Guard's first Commandant. Commodore Bertholf's most notable service was his role in the famous Alaska Overland Expedition in 1897. When over 265 American whalers became trapped in ice at Point Barrow, Bertholf led the relief party 1,600 miles via dogsled. Along with Lt. David Jarvis and Dr. Samuel Call, Bertholf herded almost 400 reindeer through a frozen Alaska winter to feed the starving whalers, an act that would later earn him the Congressional Gold Medal. Homeported in Alameda, Bertholf was commissioned on August 4, 2008, as the Coast Guard's first Legend-class national security cutter. National security cutters are 418-feet long, 54-feet wide, and have a 4,600 long-ton displacement. They have a top speed of 28 knots, a range of 12,000 nautical miles, and can hold a crew of up to 170. Bertholf routinely conducts operations throughout the Pacific, where the cutter's combination of range, speed, and ability to operate in extreme-weather conditions provides the mission flexibility necessary to conduct vital strategic missions. The ship's motto is "Legends Begin Here." ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ENABLING COMPETITION IN THE COMMERCIAL SPACE INDUSTRY Presidential Actions Executive Orders August 13, 2025 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose. In 1969, the United States landed the first humans on the Moon. In the years since, premier space companies from around the world have been drawn to launch rockets and satellites from the United States, incentivized by its infrastructure and support for commercial space activities. Americans are more prosperous because of the space research and development occurring here. It is imperative that we build on the far-reaching actions taken by my Administration during my first term to ensure that new space-based industries, space exploration capabilities, and cutting-edge defense systems are pioneered in America rather than by our adversaries. Ensuring that United States operators can efficiently launch, conduct missions in space, and reenter United States airspace is critical to economic growth, national security, and accomplishing Federal space objectives. Sec. 2. Policy. It is the policy of the United States to enhance American greatness in space by enabling a competitive launch marketplace and substantially increasing commercial space launch cadence and novel space activities by 2030. To accomplish this, the Federal Government will streamline commercial license and permit approvals for United States-based operators. Sec. 3. Reforming Regulatory Barriers to Commercial Launch and Reentry. (a) The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, shall, consistent with applicable law, use all available authorities to eliminate or expedite the Department of Transportation's environmental reviews for, and other obstacles to the granting of, launch and reentry licenses and permits. Such measures shall include the exercise of authority by the Secretary of Transportation under 51 U.S.C. 50905(b)(2)(C) as applicable; determining which Department of Transportation functions are not subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); and, as appropriate, establishing categorical exclusions under NEPA (or relying on existing categorical exclusions) for launch and reentry licenses and permits within certain parameters. (b) The Secretary of Transportation shall reevaluate, amend, or rescind, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, the regulations at Part 450 of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. The Secretary's evaluation, amendment, or rescission shall specifically address: (i) what regulatory requirements should be inapplicable for a launch or reentry vehicle that possesses a flight termination system or automated flight safety system; (ii) what regulatory requirements should be inapplicable or waived for hybrid launch or reentry vehicles that hold valid Federal Aviation Administration airworthiness certificates; (iii) whether to expand the conditions that demonstrate reliability for a reentry vehicle, sufficient to protect against a high-consequence event on reentry; and (iv) whether other existing requirements are too attenuated to a vehicle's actual launch or reentry to warrant retention in Part 450. (c) Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Transportation shall report to the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy a description of the actions that have been or will be taken pursuant to subsection (b) of this section. Sec. 4. Reforming Regulatory Barriers to Next Generation Spaceport Infrastructure. (a) The Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), shall, within 180 days of the date of this order, conduct an evaluation of relevant States' compliance under the Coastal Zone Management Act pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1458, the effect of any lack of compliance on the development of spaceport infrastructure, and whether State approvals under that Act should be revoked. The Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA shall also notify the Department of Justice of any State or local limitations on spaceport development on Federal lands that may be inconsistent with Federal law. (b) Within 180 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA shall execute a memorandum of understanding that aligns review processes for spaceport development across agencies, eliminates those that are duplicative, and preserves required Federal space-exploration and National Security Space Launch capacity. (c) The Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA shall, consistent with applicable law, use all available authorities to expedite their respective environmental and administrative reviews for authorizations, permits, approval, real property leases, and any other activity relevant to spaceport infrastructure development. The Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality shall coordinate with relevant executive departments and agencies (agencies) on the establishment of new categorical exclusions under NEPA for actions related to spaceport development that normally do not have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment. Agencies shall, for purposes of establishing these categorical exclusions, rely on any sufficient basis to do so as each such agency determines. (d) The Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA shall, mindful of the significant national security imperatives inherent in commercial space advancement, consider for all spaceport development projects whether to submit an application to the Endangered Species Committee pursuant to 16 U.S.C. 1536(e). Sec. 5. Reforming Novel Space Activity Authorization. Within 150 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall propose a process for individualized mission authorizations for activities that are covered by Article VI of the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, but not clearly or straightforwardly governed by existing regulatory frameworks, with the goal of expediting and streamlining authorizations to enable American space competitiveness and superiority. This proposal must solicit and consider affected agencies' feedback on the authorization process, contain a definitive timeline for the grant or denial of authorization for proposed activities, and include clear and consistent requirements for applicants. The Secretary of Commerce shall transmit the proposal to the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy, the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, and the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology. Nothing in this section shall be construed to apply to human spaceflight. Sec. 6. Reforming Regulatory Leadership and Accountability. (a) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Transportation shall establish a position in the Office of the Secretary with the responsibility of advising the Secretary of Transportation on fostering innovation and deregulation in the commercial space transportation industry. The Secretary of Transportation shall further direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to take all necessary steps to appoint a senior executive noncareer employee to be the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation. (b) Within 60 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Commerce shall elevate the Office of Space Commerce into the Office of the Secretary. Sec. 7. Administrative Note. Where applicable, the functions assigned to the Secretary of Transportation in sections 1 through 5 of this order shall be carried out by the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration under the direction of the Secretary of Transportation. Sec. 8. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. (b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations. (c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. (d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Transportation. DONALD J. TRUMP THE WHITE HOUSE, August 13, 2025. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Enables Competition in the Commercial Space Industry Fact Sheets The White House August 13, 2025 L SPACE INNOVATION: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to streamline regulations and foster a competitive commercial space industry, ensuring the United States maintains its leading role in the commercial use of space. The Order directs the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, to eliminate or expedite environmental reviews for launch and reentry licenses and permits. It also directs the Secretary of Transportation to review regulatory requirements to eliminate outdated, redundant, or overly restrictive rules for launch and reentry vehicles. The Order instructs the Secretary of Commerce, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA, to evaluate State compliance with the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) and whether States are hindering spaceport infrastructure development under the CZMA, or otherwise placing limitations on spaceport development that are inconsistent with Federal law. It directs the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Transportation, and the Administrator of NASA to align their review processes to eliminate duplicative regulations and expedite spaceport development. The Order mandates the creation of a streamlined process for authorizing novel space activities (missions not clearly or straightforwardly governed by existing regulatory frameworks) with the goal of enabling American space competitiveness and superiority in new space-based industries. The Order establishes a dedicated position in the Department of Transportation to advise on fostering innovation and deregulation in the commercial space industry, and directs the appointment of an Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation within the Federal Aviation Administration to drive regulatory reform. STRENGTHENING COMPETITION IN THE INDUSTRY: It is imperative that new space-based industries, space exploration capabilities, and cutting-edge defense systems are pioneered in America rather than by our adversaries. The commercial space industry drives economic growth, supports cutting-edge technology, and advances Federal space exploration objectives. Inefficient permitting processes discourage investment and innovation, limiting the ability of U.S. companies to lead in global space markets. Overly complex environmental and other licensing and permitting regulations slow down commercial space launches and infrastructure development, and benefit entrenched incumbents (who can afford to bear the expense of regulatory compliance) over new market entrants (who cannot). Space flights affected are not just human space flights; this regulatory regime hampers satellites, aerospace and defense technology development, and manufacturing and production activities conducted in space, and discourages the development of other space-based industries. The United States risks losing its competitive edge in these industries (and the benefits of technologies developed in connection with them) if regulatory barriers prevent rapid innovation and expansion in the space sector. MAKING AMERICAN LEADERSHIP IN SPACE GREAT AGAIN: President Trump is building on his first term's transformative actions in the space industry to maintain U.S. leadership in space. President Trump spearheaded the establishment of the Space Force, the first new branch of the Armed Forces since the creation of the Air Force more than 70 years ago. The Space Force is critical to preparing the Department of Defense for evolving warfighting conditions and expanding our capabilities. President Trump released seven Space Policy Directives instructing NASA to return American astronauts to the Moon, reform our Nation's commercial space regulatory framework, establish cybersecurity principles for space systems, and much more. In 2020, for the first time ever, a commercial company sent humans into orbit as part of NASA's Commercial Crew program. In his first remarks of his second term, President Trump vowed to send astronauts to Mars. This is the latest deregulatory action that President Trump has authorized, building on NEPA reform, the elimination of burdensome DEI requirements, and other complicated rules that increase the cost of operating businesses that benefit Americans. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Chief of the Defence Force meets with General Liu Zhenli of the People's Liberation Army Issued by Defence Media 13 August 2025 On 13 August 2025, the Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, met the Chief of Staff of the Joint Staff Department, People's Liberation Army, General Liu Zhenli in Beijing. Admiral Johnston and General Liu exchanged views on bilateral, global and regional security issues, as well as the need for military transparency and communication. Australia reiterated the importance of all countries in the region operating in a safe and professional manner at all times to avoid the risk of miscalculation or escalation. Australia reiterated the importance of adherence to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which provides the comprehensive legal framework for all activities in the oceans and seas. Australia affirmed the importance of all countries acting in a manner that respects sovereignty and upholds peace, security and stability. The meeting followed the 23rd Australia-China Strategic Dialogue in February 2025. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PNG welcomes humanitarian mission By Captain Annie Richardson 13 August 2025 The thrum of engines from the USS Pearl Harbor echoed across the Port of Lae, PNG, signalling the start of Pacific Partnership - the US Navy's largest annual humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in the Indo-Pacific region. Against a backdrop of mist-draped mountains, palm-fringed roads and the hum of local markets, Australian Defence Force personnel stepped ashore with partner nations to work with PNG communities during two weeks of health, engineering and cultural engagement activities. In its 21st year, and sponsored by Commander US Pacific Fleet, it is focusing on the Indo and South-West Pacific. After departing Honolulu in early July, ADF personnel joined forces with counterparts from the US, Japan, New Zealand, the UK, Canada, Germany and South Korea, delivering medical clinics, infrastructure improvements and community outreach programs. Commander Darren Smith, Australian contingent commander and director of the multinational operations coordination cell for the exercise, said the Lae community's welcome was overwhelming. "We have had record numbers of participation in our women's peace and security workshops at the Christian Revival Centre, incredible relationships being built at the Angau hospital and local community health clinics, as well as support to the beautification to some of the construction the engineers are conducting," Commander Smith said There are five ADF personnel embarked aboard Pearl Harbor. "Our integration with other nations has been fantastic," Commander Smith said. "The highlight of the trip for me would be witnessing the work of our multinational teams on the ground. "In particular, our medical teams working in Angau hospital, and seeing the effect that they're having, the smiles they're raising and the strength that we're building in the host nation." Locals also welcomed community outreach activities by the Pacific Partnership Band and chaplains. "The local reaction to the chaplain outreach and the band performances has been incredible," Commander Smith said. "The band has absolutely lifted the roof in places like the Lae Secondary School, the university and primary schools across Lae. "And, in a country where religious events are really important to the community, our chaplain has been conducting hugely successful activities across the town." With the red, black and gold of the PNG flag fluttering with partner nations' flags in Marobe province, Commander Smith said Pacific Partnership highlighted what was possible when partners united. "It's so important to have Australia involved in Pacific Partnership, because the Indo Pacific and South-West Pacific are part of our inner-region," he said. "We have this opportunity to build this resilience in calm, so we can all work together when a crisis strikes." Pacific Partnership will head to Chuuk, in the Federated States of Micronesia, followed by a stop in Samoa. "This is what Pacific Partnership is all about. People helping people, shoulder to shoulder," Commander Smith said. "It's an amazing opportunity that we should all look forward to participating in." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China implements zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries People's Daily Online By Liao Ruiling (People's Daily) 15:32, August 13, 2025 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson's Remarks on Wang Yi Chairing the Tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting and Holding the Informal Discussion Between the Foreign Ministers of China, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Thailand Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: August 13, 2025 15:07 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 China's 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Remarks on August 13, 2025 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China Updated: August 13, 2025 18:28 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 China's 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 China's 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 company's Chairman has signed the phase 1 investment project proposal with Nauru's 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Why Xi Is Closely Watching The Trump-Putin Summit In Alaska By Reid Standish August 13, 2025 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 preparing for 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. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/china-russia-summit-taiwan- ukraine-alaska-trump-deal-nvidia/33502040.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China's cyberspace regulator exposes typical cases of illegal military-related social media accounts Global Times By Global Times Published: Aug 14, 2025 11:15 AM China's cyberspace authority on Thursday disclosed a number of typical cases involving self-media accounts that violated the Regulations on the Online Communication of Military Information. These accounts illegally published military-related content, misled public understanding, damaged the image of the armed forces, and had a negative social impact. Authorities have taken action in accordance with the law, removing illegal content and shutting down the offending accounts, according to a release by the Cyber Administration of China on its website. The typical cases included those impersonating official military accounts. For example, the "Southern Guard," "Joint Staff Think Tank Services" and "Joint Logistics Support," closely mimicked official military accounts, using high-fidelity imitations to pose as authentic sources and post military content to exploit trending topics for followers and profit. Others fabricated military rumors, using AI tools to invent false stories such as "China's four soul-calming weapons," misleading the public. Some accounts published so-called analyses of equipment details, tactics and operationssome behind paywallsprofiting illegally from military topics. The cyber administration also listed some accounts distorting military history, claiming that Chinese People's Volunteers pilot of the War to Resist US Aggresion and Aid Korea (1950-53) Zhang Jihui's achievements were "exaggerated," smearing the legacy of martyrs and using sensitive party and military history topics to attract traffic for profit. Contents related to slandering the military's image have also been removed, including the misleading "Q&A videos" with titles like "What are the risks of serving in XX location?" to discredit the armed forces. Accounts exploiting public support for the military - such as "the Qinhuai River," who claimed to be a retired soldier and frequently posted short videos wearing military uniforms or replicas to attract followers, are also deemed as in violation of regulations. Lastly, the administration exposed accounts exposing military facilities. They uploaded multiple videos of "military family compounds" showing training equipment and revealing locations, exposing sensitive military information. Officials stressed that relevant departments will continue to strictly enforce the Regulations on the Online Communication of Military Information, crack down on self-media accounts engaged in illegal military-related activities, and severely punish those who publish or hype false information. They also encouraged the public to actively report violations in order to foster a healthy online environment for military content. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Visa Revocations and Restrictions on Brazilian Government Officials and Former PAHO Officials Involved in the Cuban Regime's Labor Export Scheme US Department of State Press Statement Marco Rubio, Secretary of State August 13, 2025 Today, the Department of State took steps to revoke visas and impose visa restrictions on several Brazilian government officials, former Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) officials, and their family members for their complicity with the Cuban regime's labor export scheme in the Mais Medicos program. These officials were responsible for or involved in abetting the Cuban regime's coercive labor export scheme, which exploits Cuban medical workers through forced labor. This scheme enriches the corrupt Cuban regime and deprives the Cuban people of essential medical care. As part of Brazil's Mais Medicos program, these officials used PAHO as an intermediary with the Cuban dictatorship 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. Dozens of Cuban doctors that served in the program have reported being exploited by the Cuban regime as part of the program. The Department has revoked the visas of Mozart Julio Tabosa Sales and Alberto Kleiman, both of whom worked in Brazil's Ministry of Health during the Mais Medicos program and played a role in planning and implementing the program. Our action sends an unmistakable message that the United States promotes accountability for those who enable the Cuban regime's forced labor export scheme. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea's Kim, Putin vow cooperation in phone call Putin praised North Korea's help in Russia's conflict with Ukraine ahead of a planned summit with U.S. President Donald Trump. By RFA staff 2025.08.13 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to deepen their countries' collaboration, North Korean state media said Wednesday, as Putin praised the "bravery, heroism, and self-sacrificing spirit" of North Korean troops who fought with the Russian military against Ukraine in the Kursk border region. On a telephone call on Tuesday with the Russian president, Kim said that North Korea would "fully support all measures to be taken by the Russian leadership in the future, too." According to Russia's TASS news agency, Putin shared with Kim information about his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday. Trump is expected to press Russia to end the war with Ukraine. North Korea has sent around 15,000 troops to Russia since last fall, according to South Korean tallies and it has also supplied equipment including artillery and ballistic missiles to support the operation against Ukraine. Pyongyang first acknowledged its role in the Ukraine conflict in late April, around six months after the first reports of their troops' presence. Ukrainian officials have released handwritten letters and combat instructions that are said to have come from North Korean soldiers who were killed in battle. Ukraine has also broadcast messages in Korean appealing to North Korean soldiers to surrender. Includes reporting from The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content August not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address KCNA on Consequences to Be Entailed by Frequent Military Drills in West Pacific Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, August 14 (KCNA) -- Recently, U.S.-led multinational military drills are being staged in Australia and west Pacific region. From mid-July to August 4, the largest-ever multinational military drill Talisman Sabre involving about 40 000 troops, 30-odd large and small warships and at least 70 fighters of 19 countries were staged under the joint sponsorship of the U.S. and Australian forces. It was the first time in history that such huge armed forces had conducted the military drill, advancing to the northern coast of a neighboring island country thousands of kilometers off from the northeastern part of Australia. This year's drill, the eleventh in its kind, shows that the scope of the drill has steadily expanded to the whole of Asia-Pacific region. It is needless to say that all the contents and elements of the drill, including the all-round domains containing the sea, ground, air, cyber and space, amphibious operations, anti-ship operations, landing operations and other combined operations, and live firing involving ultra-modern fighters and long-range missiles were very hot and provocative. Before the powder smell took away, warship strike groups of the U.S., Britain, Australia, Japan and other countries launched a large-scale naval joint military drill in the west Pacific from August 4 to 12. In the drill, joint exercises adjacent to the actual war environment were staged in a frantic way. The latest F-35B stealth fighters from the U.S. nuclear carrier George Washington and British carrier Prince of Wales landed in Japan's virtual aircraft carrier Kaga. Every drill poses a serious threat to the regional security environment. The situation in which the U.S.-led multinational military drills were held in succession is unprecedented, and it is quite natural that the regional countries express concerns over this. There is no guarantee that the wind and waves in the west Pacific will not develop into a tidal wave to hit the whole Asia-Pacific region. The U.S.-ROK large-scale joint military drill Ulji Freedom Shield against the DPRK will be staged in a frantic way in the Korean peninsula from August 18, and most of the countries, which participated in the recent multinational military drills in the west Pacific region including member states of the "UN Command" will take part in this drill. It is reported that the British carrier strike group, too, will not return to the Atlantic Ocean, its home base, despite its long voyage, but will participate in several military drills targeting regional countries by calling at Yokosuka Port in Japan. As seen above, the next arrow of the U.S.-led multinational military actions frequently made in the west Pacific is clearly drawn to the depth of the Asia-Pacific region. It is quite clear that the joint military drills of the U.S. and its satellite countries, which continue to escalate military tension while expanding the scope of their activities one after another in the Asia-Pacific region, will entail very negative consequences for the security environment of the regional countries. The regional countries hope that the region will become a pacific sea and a peaceful zone as the name of the Pacific. If the U.S. and its satellite countries persist in military actions of disturbing peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region, they will surely face the resistance and retaliation by the regional countries. The U.S. and its vassal forces should not underestimate the will of the regional countries to defend peace and security in the Asia-Pacific by taking physical counteraction. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Statement by Kim Yo Jong, Vice Department Director of C.C., WPK Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, August 14 (KCNA) -- Kim Yo Jong, vice department director of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Thursday issued the following press statement titled "Hope of Seoul Is Nothing but a Foolish Dream": The ROK has a dream of spring at an unseasonable time. Media of the ROK made a supposition on August 12 that the DPRK's thoughts may be conveyed to the U.S. side at the Russia-U.S. summit meeting to be held soon. This is a typical proof that the ROK is having a false dream. If a dream is dreamed very often, it will be an empty one, and so many suppositions will lead to so many contradictions that will not be solved. Why should we send a message to the U.S. side. I would like to remind again the world that is listening to the news of the ROK media spreading false suppositions. We have nothing to do with the U.S. I have already said clearly that the special personal relations between the top leaders of the DPRK and the U.S. will not be reflected in the policy and that if the U.S. persists with the outdated way of thinking, the meeting between the top leaders will remain only the "hope" of the U.S. side. We are not at all interested in talks that are obsessed with the irreversible past, and there is no more need to explain the reason. I take this opportunity to comment on the fact that the ROK is misleading the public opinion by saying that we have removed the loudspeakers installed on the southern border area. Recently, the ROK has tried to mislead public opinion by saying that its "goodwill measures" and "appeasement policy" are meeting a response, as well as to create public opinion that the DPRK-ROK relations are being "restored". The ROK president said that after they first removed the loudspeakers facing towards the DPRK, we, too, seemed to be removing some loudspeakers, hoping that such each other's measures as removing "unnecessary and costly loudspeakers" would help improve the "inter-Korean relations". Shortly ago, the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the ROK, too, announced that loudspeaker removal by the DPRK was seen. The irony is that after hearing the military announcement, the authorities and experts of the ROK are describing it as a "response measure" and "change sensing" and a "positive response". Stating the fact first, it is unfounded unilateral supposition and a red herring. We have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them. I think that by getting rid of the measures taken unilaterally during the Yoon Suk Yeol regime, the present government of the ROK seems to be trying to meet someone's response and be praised for the "such a good deed". As to the joint military drills, it is pretending hard to make proactive efforts for detente, talking about adjustment and postponement. But it does not deserve praise and will prove futile. The rulers of Seoul have some object in building up the public opinion while embellishing their new policy towards the DPRK. It is their foolish calculation that if they manage to make us respond to their actions, it would be good, and if not, their actions will at least reflect their "efforts for detente" and they will be able to shift the responsibility for the escalation of tensions onto the DPRK and win the support of the world. However, such a trick is nothing but a "pipedream" and it does not arouse our interest at all. Whether the ROK withdraws its loudspeakers or not, stops broadcasting or not, postpones its military exercises or not and downscales them or not, we do not care about them and are not interested in them. The shabby deceptive farce is no longer attractive. I am confident that Seoul's policy towards the DPRK remains unchanged and can never change. Although a filthy thing is wrapped with a wedding veil, it will emit a stench. And no matter how hard they pretend to be righteous and they beautify and justify their actions, they can never cover up the hostile intention. The U.S.-ROK joint military drills to be started on August 18 will undoubtedly bring the light to the hostile nature of the ROK again. We have clarified on several occasions that we have no will to improve relations with the ROK, the U.S. faithful servant and ally, and this conclusive stand and viewpoint will be fixed in our constitution in the future. It is a very just measure. The ROK stipulated its wild ambition for unification by absorption in its constitution, organized the "U.S.-ROK nuclear consultative group" focusing on preemptive nuclear strike at the DPRK, and regularly holds a confab. And it is engrossed in different war drills of aggressive nature, while repeating such a silly talk as "denuclearization" and totally denying our constitution. This is the stark reality of the DPRK-ROK relations which the world sees today. Our stand on a dangerous and base state which is imposing a constant security threat on the DPRK should be clearer, and the ROK should be permanently described as the most hostile forces in its true colors, which should be stipulated in our national law. It is no different than the wish for a flower in the desert to expect or divine the change of our cognition towards the most hostile state in the world. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Araqchi, Armenian deputy foreign minister discuss regional developments in Tehran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Armenia's Deputy Foreign Minister Vahan Kostanyan, who is on a visit to Tehran, has met and conferred with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. During the meeting on Wednesday, the two officials reviewed the latest developments across the region. The Armenian diplomat had already met with Ali-Akbar Velayati, an advisor to Leader of the Islamic Revolution on international affairs. Velayati criticized "extra-regional countries" whose presence he said causes instability, warning that any action threatening Iran's national security would receive an appropriate response. He expressed support for expanding cooperation with Armenia and emphasized Iran's commitment to peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Kostanyan provided an update on recent regional developments and negotiations in Washington, stressing the importance of maintaining historical ties and good neighborly relations between Armenia and Iran. He noted that his country is deeply committed to friendly relations with Iran and values these historical bonds. Kostanyan further assured that the friendship between the two countries would remain strong. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Egyptian foreign minister holds mediation talks between Iran and IAEA IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 The Egyptian foreign minister held separate phone talks with the Iranian foreign minister and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). According to an official statement from the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these talks were held in line with Cairo's continuous efforts to strengthen regional stability, reduce tensions, and facilitate the resumption of negotiations on Iran's nuclear program within the framework of a peaceful and diplomatic approach. 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Araghchi: Western sanctions must be recognized as crimes against humanity IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Tehran, IRNA -- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says sanctions imposed by the United States and other Western countries are inhumane and should be recognized as crimes against humanity. In a post on X on Wednesday, the top Iranian diplomat rejected claims by Western governments that "sanctions are a bloodless alternative to war," citing a new study by Britain-based leading medical journal, The Lancet. "Reality check: New study by @TheLancet says unilateral sanctions, particularly by the US, may be as lethal as war. 500+k lives claimed annually since 1970s, mostly children and the elderly," said Araghchi. He called for recognizing the Western-imposed sanctions as crimes against humanity, and urged the affected countries to give a united response to the "inhumane" measures. "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," the top diplomat said. Iran is one of the countries in the world, which has faced severe Western sanctions over the past decades due to its opposition to their unilateral policies. 9376**4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Nuclear chief calls for IAEA condemnation of assassination of Iranian scientists IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Aug 13, 2025 Vice President and Head of Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami said that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) should condemn the Israeli regime's killing of Iranian nuclear scientists. He paid tribute to the memory of the martyrs of the media, the nuclear martyrs, and the recent imposed war. "A number of institutions affiliated with the Zionist regime pretend that the attack on Iran's nuclear facilities was an act in the interest of the security of humanity. These narratives are so skillfully reflected that uninformed people believe them, and today we expect the media to stand strong and firmly against the combined war of the enemies of this land and reflect the correct narrative," he added. The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran said: "Israel is neither a member of the NPT nor a member of the safeguards, but it has influence in the International Atomic Energy Agency and with this influence it exploits the confidential information of countries. With the support of the United States, they are carrying out evil actions in the region." Eslami noted that during the 12-day war, a number of centers registered under the Agency's continuous surveillance, which were monitored by 130 inspectors, were repeatedly attacked using missiles and various projectiles. The Vice President added: "The Americans had been planning an attack on our facilities for a long time. This is despite the fact that none of the official institutions have submitted a report on Iran's non-compliance or deviation from the safeguards in recent years." He emphasized: "A fabricated and fake case has been formed by the Zionist regime, and the accusations and excuses are nothing more than an attempt to stop Iran's peaceful nuclear program. If their claims were true, they should have provided clear evidence. These fake statements are only a cover to prevent the progress of the Iranian nation." The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran said: "Such double standards and efforts to prevent Iran from entering advanced scientific fields are the same hegemonic system that, at huge costs, is trying to deprive our nation of nuclear technology and other modern technologies. This approach is a tangible manifestation of their identity; the same crimes they are committing in Palestine today." Referring to the role of the nuclear industry in improving the quality of life of the people, Eslami said: "The development of advanced science and technology is vital for our society. If we do not invest in this area, we will lose young talents and elites. We must act in a lively, dynamic and intelligent manner against distorted narratives. The media and journalists have a heavy responsibility in the path of correct narrative." 2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran says it has stopped electricity exports to Iraq Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 5:32 PM Iran's state electricity company Tavanir says it has stopped power exports to neighboring Iraq to be able to respond to rising domestic demand. Tavanir's head of transmission and foreign trade operations said on Wednesday that Iran's electricity exports had fallen significantly in recent months to reach one-fifth of the country's imports. Mohammad Allahdad said that Iran is exploring every avenue possible to increase its electricity imports while at the same time cutting exports to neighboring states. "A bulk of the country's electricity exports, which were previously directed at Iraq under international contracts, have stopped completely these days," Allahdad was quoted as saying by the ILNA news agency. He said, however, that power exports to Afghanistan were continuing, although he insisted volumes were not significant compared to other export contracts. "Last night, electricity imported into the country was around 400 megawatts (MW) while only 80 MW was exported," said the official. Iran has been facing an increasing demand for electricity amid a scorching heatwave that has affected many parts of the country. Tavanir uses four transmission lines to supply around 1,000 MW per day of electricity to Iraq under a contract it has with the Arab country's Electricity Ministry. Iraq is also heavily dependent on Iranian supplies of natural gas to its power plants. Estimates show the country relies on Iranian gas and electricity supplies for more than 50% of its total power consumption. That is why the country has struggled to secure waivers from US sanctions on Iran to be able to meet its growing domestic demand for electricity. The United States announced in early March that it had revoked a waiver that allowed Iraq to pay for electricity imports from Iran. Allahdad would not elaborate whether any failure on the Iraqi side to pay for previous electricity supplies from Iran had played a role in Tavanir's recent decision to cut exports to the Arab country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iranian nuclear officials: No surrender to pressure; prepared until threats end Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 4:00 AM Iran's nuclear chief has vowed that the Islamic Republic would remain unbowed in the face of bullying powers' excessive demands regarding the country's peaceful nuclear energy program. Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), made the remarks at a ceremony held in Tehran on Tuesday to mark the National Journalist Day. "But the Iranian nation is not one to surrender to bullying," he said. The nation would stay resilient, the official noted, despite the West's and its allies' efforts at employing double standards aimed at preventing the country from exploring the field of peaceful nuclear energy. "Such double standards and attempts to block Iran's entry into advanced scientific fields are [hallmarks of] the very hegemonic system that spends enormous sums of money to deprive our nation of nuclear and other modern technologies," Eslami noted. He was referring to efforts and resources spent by the country's adversaries towards either tarnishing its nuclear work or targeting it with sabotage. This approach, the official added, was a clear reflection of the hegemonic powers' true nature that was also clearly visible in their crimes against the Palestinians. "By violating the United Nations Charter, they have proven that the law of the jungle governs the world." As a case in point, Eslami cited the Israeli regime's and the United States ferocious attacks against Iran in June that damaged the country's nuclear facilities and claimed the lives of a number of its nuclear scientists. The attacks that took place during a 12-day unprovoked war by the regime came after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) issued its latest unfounded anti-Iran resolution. Eslami called the resolution the work of the Zionist entity, saying, "If their claims were true, they should have presented clear evidence," and noting that no IAEA investigation had ever verified the claims. "These baseless statements are merely a cover to obstruct the progress of the Iranian nation." The official, meanwhile, reminded that the double standards came, while no Western power or their allies would ever find fault with the Zionist entity's proven military nuclear work, despite Tel Aviv's not being either a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) or the IAEA's Safeguards Agreement. Eslami also called on the UN nuclear watchdog to clearly and immediately condemn the regime's assassination of Iran's nuclear scientist in the strongest terms. 'A war of willpower' Also addressing the ceremony, AEOI spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi urged continued vigilance on the part of the nation as long as the country's nuclear program remained under threat. "We went through a difficult 12-day period, and until the threat is completely removed, we must remain alert," he said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iranian Lawmaker Warns UN Sanctions Could Lead To NPT Withdrawal By RFE/RL August 13, 2025 Summary An Iranian lawmaker has warned that reimposing UN sanctions could lead Iran to withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Britain, France, Germany have threatened to trigger sanctions under the 2015 nuclear deal unless Iran resumes negotiations with the United States by the end of August. Iran's president has defended diplomacy with Washington, angering hard-liners who criticize his stance as weak. 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 Iran's nuclear sites. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-un-sanctions- withdraw-nuclear-npt/33502164.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address France, Germany and UK Send Iran an Ultimatum on the Nuclear Deal Sputnik News 20250813 The E3 countries - the United Kingdom, France and Germany - told the United Nations that they are ready to reimpose sanctions against Iran if Tehran does not agree to a nuclear deal by the end of August, the Financial Times newspaper reported on Wednesday, citing a letter it had seen. On July 26, the German Foreign Ministry said that the E3, during a meeting with Iranian representatives in Istanbul, offered Iran an option of postponing the resumption of UN Security Council sanctions if Tehran fulfills "its legal obligations" and "certain conditions." "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 letter read. The letter addressed to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and the UN Security Council was signed by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Qalibaf to Netanyahu: Iran has defeated far bigger foes Iran Press TV Thursday, 14 August 2025 12:46 AM Iran's Majlis (Parliament) speaker has warned the Israeli regime's prime minister that the Iranian nation has, throughout the course of history, defeated adversaries of far greater animosity and battlefield expertise than the Zionist entity. Historically, the Iranian people have confronted far bigger enemies and consigned them to "the dustbin of history," Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf wrote in a message on his account on X, former Twitter, on Wednesday. The regime's officials, the top legislator added, had "become helpless and confused" in the face of the nation's insight and strategic discernment. Qalibaf made the remarks in a strong rebuttal to earlier claims by the regime's premier Benjamin Netanyahu about the status of water provision and supplies in the Islamic Republic, which the former denounced as both misleading and hypocritical. He cited several instances of the regime, itself's suffering from a water crisis owing to its mismanagement. According to Qalibaf, due to Israeli officials' ignorant policies some villages across the occupied Palestinian territories received just 12 hours of water per week; thousands of hectares of farmland and orchards had dried up; rivers had been depleted; and crop yields had dropped sharply. Even the regime's own finance minister has formally recognized drought as the primary challenge, the official added. He also referenced the regime's using water deprivation as a weapon against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and Tel Aviv's imposed war on Iran in June, during which Israeli warplanes struck a main water pipeline in the capital Tehran. "The 21st-century Nazis struck the main water artery of northern Tehran in Tajrish in broad daylight with missiles, aiming to bring the capital to a state of water scarcity." "These same criminals have long been the world's number-one water thieves." The official, therefore, concluded that "echoes of Israeli officials' crimes have always been louder than their nonsense." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff; General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI (M), Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, NI (M), Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, extend heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan's 78th Independence Daymarking the triumph of unity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to a shared vision for a brighter future. Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan Rawalpindi - August 14, 2025 No PR-256/2025-ISPR Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff; General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI (M), Chief of the Naval Staff; and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, NI (M), Chief of the Air Staff, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, extend heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan's 78th Independence Daymarking the triumph of unity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to a shared vision for a brighter future. As we pay homage to our founding fathers, we honor their indomitable spirit, resolute determination, and unparalleled sacrifices under the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnahsacrifices that paved the way for independence. Their courage, foresight, and unshakeable faith in the cause of freedom remain an enduring beacon of guidance. The Armed Forces pay solemn tribute to the visionaries, statesmen, and soldiers who laid our nation's foundations, cherishing their legacy with deep reverence and gratitude. As guardians of national security, we reaffirm our unwavering resolve to safeguard Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, uphold the Constitution, and protect the values that define our national identity. The unbreakable bond between the Armed Forces and the people is the cornerstone of our collective strength. On this Independence Day, let us renew our resolve to strive for peace, progress, and unity, upholding the ideals of Faith, Unity, and Discipline to realize the dream of a resilient, prosperous, and progressive Pakistan. *Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad* *Pakistan Paindabad* NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia-Belarus Zapad Drills to Practice Use of Tactical Nuclear Arms, Oreshnik - Reports Sputnik News 20250813 MINSK (Sputnik) - Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said that the joint Belarusian-Russian military exercises Zapad-2025 in September will practice planning the use of nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik complex, the Belta news agency reported on Wednesday. This is an important element of strategic containment for the parties, the minister was quoted as saying by the news agency. The Belarusian-Russian military exercises "Zapad-2025" will take place on the territory of Belarus from September 12 to 16, announced the head of the Department of International Military Cooperation and Assistant Minister of Defense of Belarus, Valery Revenko. He emphasized that the goal of the exercises is to assess the capabilities of Belarus and the Russian Federation in ensuring the military security of the Union State and their readiness to repel potential aggression. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Manalit: Belarus's Sanctions Loophole Feeding Russia's War Machine By RFE/RL's Belarus Service August 14, 2025 In the spring of 2024, the Belarusian government placed the Manalit radio components plant in Vitsebsk on its Republican Honor Board for "outstanding economic results." It was the second time in a row the plant had received this recognition. The recognition of Manalit, a Russian-owned manufacturer based in Belarus, came as the plant become a critical supplier of high-reliability electronic components for missiles, radars, and aircraft used by Russia in its war against Ukraine. Within the first two years of Russia's full-scale aggression against Ukraine, which began in February 2022, Manalit's annual profits increased nearly sixfold, driven almost entirely by military exports to Russia. Manalit's history mirrors that of many in Belarus's heavy industry. Founded in the Soviet era as a major producer of ceramic capacitors, the plant fell into crisis in the 1990s as demand collapsed. By 2009, it was near complete liquidation. In 2011, salvation and transformation came from its former competitor: the Kulon plant in Russia's second-largest city, St. Petersburg. Russian investors acquired a 51 percent controlling stake, effectively turning Manalit into an offshore production base for Russia's defense industry. Capacitors Built for War Manalit specializes in multilayer ceramic capacitors of exceptional durability, certified for use in military and space applications. "Ninety-seven percent of our output serves Russia's defense industry, " Manalit's director, Alyaksandr Shumakher, was cited by BelTA state news agency as saying in November 2020. In 2024, Vitsebsk Regional Executive Committee Chairman Alyaksandr Subotsin noted that the plant was "operating systematically" and had shown results over the previous two years that "could not fail to satisfy." Capacitors like Manalit's K10-84 series are not intended for consumer electronics. Instead, they are found in missile guidance systems, radar arrays, electronic warfare modules, and nuclear control systems, where failure can mean the loss of a mission or weapon. A Loophole In Sanctions Western sanctions imposed on Russia in 2014 after the annexation of Ukraine's Crimea cut off direct access to advanced Western electronics for military use. But Belarus was not subject to the same restrictions until 2022. For nearly eight years, Manalit exploited this gap, importing equipment and materials from Europe and the United States, then shipping finished components to Russia to replace banned Western parts. Even today, despite EU and US sanctions, Manalit is allowed to purchase Slovenian KEKO production lines, equip them with Japanese Pro-face control panels (owned by France's Schneider Electric), and continue sourcing American precious-metal powders for capacitor production. Evidence In The Debris Of War According to a specialist from the Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), Manalit-made K10-84 capacitors have been found in Russia's Iskander ballistic missiles, Kalibr cruise missiles, Kh-101 air-launched cruise missiles, S-200 and S-300 air-defense missiles, as well as Zoopark counter-battery radar systems. "The air-pressure system in Kh-101 missiles, all the capacitors, and 80 percent of the microchips are Belarusian-made. As for the control blocks in the 2024-model Iskanders, almost every capacitor in them is from Manalit," the specialist told RFE/RL. Links To The Kremlin Manalit's exports to Russia are funneled through a single dealer: Spetselektronkomplekt (SpecEk), a major supplier to Russia's Defense Ministry. Customs data obtained by RFE/RL and the Belarusian Investigative Center show that from October 2022 to March 2025, Manalit shipped $43 million worth of goods to SpecEk, 96 percent of it ceramic capacitors. SpecEk is registered in Russia's closed registry of defense contractors, which lists suppliers to the following partners in Russia: Rostec: An umbrella for 350 defense enterprises, producing 40 percent of Russia's state arms orders. Almaz-Antey: Themaker of the S-300, S-400, Buk, and Tor missile systems. KRET: Electronic warfare systems UAC: Su, MiG, and Tupolev aircraft Tactical Missiles Corporation: Precision missiles, including the Kh-101 UralVagonZavod: Main battle tank production Russian Helicopters: Mi-8, Ka-52, Mi-35 gunships War Profits, Sanctions Before the full-scale war began in 2022, Manalit's annual profits were around $1.4 million. By 2024, net profit was up to $6.2 million. The company has seen growth over the past five years of over 460 percent. It has achieved record-breaking profits during the bloodiest conflict in Europe since World War II. In May 2023, Ukraine sanctioned Manalit for "directly facilitating Russian military aggression." Meanwhile, neither the EU nor the United States has followed suit, leaving the company with open access to Western suppliers. This has effectively made Manalit a "sanctions gateway," a Belarusian legal entity delivering Western technology to Russia's military. Since falling under Russian control in 2011, Manalit has been modernized with Western equipment, maintained open access to European and US raw materials, and secured Russian military certification. It also supplied capacitors found in missiles that have struck multiple Ukrainian cities. As Western governments debate new sanctions, the capacitors made in a quiet Belarusian factory continue their journey from Vitsebsk's assembly lines to Russia's missile plants, and finally, to the skies over Ukraine. The investigation was conducted with the assistance of information from the Ukrainian project Slidstvo.Info and the Belarusian Investigative Center. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/manalit-belarus-russia-ukraine- war-sanctions-missile-components/33502034.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Arab tribes declare 'mobilization' against US-backed SDF militants Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 8:26 AM Various Arab tribes in northern Syria have put forth statements demanding a "general mobilization" against the so-called Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a US-backed group of Kurdish militants. Sulaiman al-Mashi, a representative of the al-Boubna al-Shaabania tribe, warned that "the enemies have not yet sheathed their swords," calling for continued resistance until further notice. The al-Bu Jabr clan aligned with the initiative, urging members to "transcend tribal differences" and unite "to achieve freedom, justice, and the protection of rights." Several other tribes, including Albu Shaaban, Albu Dhaher, al-Walda and Bani Asid Hashemite, have joined the call, reflecting widespread discontent among Arab communities who view the SDF as an extension of foreign occupation. The tensions come after the Pentagon recently announced that American forces had withdrawn from key bases such as Green Village and Conoco, handing over control to the SDF at a time when relations between Kurdish-led forces and local Arab tribes remained fraught. The unrest also comes amid heightened sectarian tensions under the ruling Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) regime led by Abu Muhammad al-Jolani. The regime's failure to broker a national reconciliation or bring stability to the fractured country since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad has contributed to the ongoing chaos. In the northeast, the situation is further complicated by HTS' harsh crackdown on minority groups, including recent violence against the Druze community in Sweida and Alawite civilians along the coast. The Kurdish militants control a significant portion of northeastern Syria, particularly in areas along the borders with Turkey and Iraq. This region, often referred to as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), encompasses parts of Hasakah, Dayr al-Zawr, and Raqqa governorates, as well as a small area in the Aleppo countryside. The SDF's control extends to vital oil and gas fields in the region, which account for a large percentage of Syria's hydrocarbon output. For years, the SDF had been benefiting from revenues generated by oil fields in the region east of the Euphrates, under the US military occupation. Efforts to integrate the SDF into the HTS military, following a March agreement in Damascus, have stalled. Kurdish leaders insist on maintaining autonomous command, while the HTS regime demands full controldeepening mistrust on both sides. Clashes erupted between the SDF and the HTS-linked militants in Aleppo at the beginning of this month. On Tuesday, an HTS militant was killed in clashes with SDF forces in Aleppo province, Syria's SANA news agency reported, casting further doubt over the integration deal. The HTS defense ministry said the SDF must abide by that accord and stop targeting its forces, warning that "the continuation of these actions will lead to new consequences". However, the March agreement does not specify how the SDF would be merged into Syria's armed forces. The group has previously said its forces must join as a bloc while the HTS wants its fighters to join as individuals. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address HTS regime requests Russian patrols in south Syria to limit Israeli incursions: Report Iran Press TV Wednesday, 13 August 2025 7:03 AM The Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) regime in Syria is reportedly seeking to reinstate Russian military patrols in the southern governorates in the Arab country with the primary objective of curbing Israeli military incursions in the region. The Russian daily Kommersant, citing an unnamed source, reported on Tuesday that Damascus has specifically asked Moscow to resume military patrols in the border areas with the occupied territories, similar to the patrols conducted before the fall of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad's government. The report from the Moscow-based newspaper suggests that these patrols could help reduce Israeli incursions in Syria, amid the occupying regime's escalation in the Arab country in recent months under the pretext of creating a buffer zone and "protecting the Druze" community. According to the source who was present at a meeting between Syria's de facto foreign minister Asaad al-Shaibani and members of the Syrian diaspora in Moscow on August, "Russia's return to its previous positions could prevent Israel's interference in Syrian affairs." Since the collapse of Assad's government, the Israeli military has been launching airstrikes against military installations, facilities, and arsenals belonging to Syria's now-defunct army. Despite these ongoing aggressions, HTS has failed to mount a significant military response. This failure is rooted in several factors. The downfall of Assad's government left Syria's military infrastructure fragmented. HTS, initially a militant group with Takfiri origins, now faces the challenge of governing a country rife with internal divisions and fractured armed factions. Its inability to unify these forces has severely limited its capacity to organize an effective defense against Israel. The Russian military maintains bases across Syria and has kept channels open with the new regime, balancing its regional interests while managing delicate relations with Israel. Israel has been widely condemned for the termination of the 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria and for exploiting the chaos in the Arab nation in the wake of Assad's downfall to make a land grab. The United Nations has condemned ongoing Israeli attacks inside Syrian territory and repeated violations in and around the buffer zone created as part of a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Damascus. Last month, Israel bombed the military headquarters of the HTS regime in the Syrian capital Damascus. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu also ordered military units to target any HTS forces or weapons entering Sweida province, citing the protection of the Druze community, which Tel Aviv considers a strategic ally due to their significant ties to those residing in the occupied Golan Heights. In February, Netanyahu said that southern Syria must remain fully demilitarized and warned that his regime would not tolerate any military presence near the Golan Heights. The HTS regime in Syria holds Israel accountable for the escalation and demands the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from the areas they recently advanced into during the conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syria: UNICEF calls for safe access to children in Sweida as needs mount 13 August 2025 - Humanitarians must be able to reach families affected by the "deeply alarming" recent violence in Syria's Sweida region who need food and other basics to survive, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Wednesday. Deadly sectarian clashes erupted in the southern governorate, also known as As-Sweida, in July and early August and children and families continue to feel the impact. At least 22 children reportedly were killed and another 21 injured in the violence, which caused significant damage to civilian infrastructure. More than 190,000 people, mainly women and children, were forced to flee their homes. Essential services also were disrupted. At least five health centres were reportedly struck, with two doctors killed, while ambulances were obstructed or attacked. 'A welcome step' UNICEF Syria Deputy Representative Zeinab Adam described the situation as "tragic and deeply alarming." "Given the ongoing needs of children and families affected, the increased efforts by the interim authorities to facilitate access to those in need have been a welcome step," she said. UNICEF was part of the UN's first inter-agency convoy to Sweida which arrived at the end of July. Ms. Adam said the agency "delivered life-saving supplies and carried out a rapid on-the-ground assessment to ensure a faster, stronger response to the growing crisis." said. Food and medicine shortages The fighting caused critical damage to vital infrastructure, water, electricity and fuel. Furthermore, food, medicine and other essentials remain scarce due to continued insecurity and access constraints. In response, UNICEF has deployed 14 mobile health and nutrition teams. Teams have also provided life-saving health and nutrition supplies to more than 4,000 children and women, as well as safe drinking water and fuel for water pumping stations benefiting more than 30,000 people. Appeal for access "To ensure an effective response, it is critical that both humanitarian actors and commercial goods have unhindered access to the most affected communities," said Ms. Adam. "This will enable the immediate provision of basic social services, including food, water, and other essential supplies, to those in urgent need." She added that "facilitating this access is not only vital for life-saving interventions but also for restoring a minimum level of stability and protection in these communities." Meanwhile, UNICEF remains on the ground in Sweida and will continue to advocate for children there and across Syria. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Spokesperson responds to DPP's plan to bar cars from mainland, calling it a move blocking cross-Straits economic exchange Global Times By Global Times Published: Aug 13, 2025 02:48 PM Using the guise of "security" to bar Taiwan compatriots from buying and using high-quality mainland products, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities are doing everything in their power to stifle cross-Straits economic exchange and cooperation, Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, said Wednesday, responding to comments from the DPP authorities claiming to block mainland-made vehiclesincluding BYD's electric models -- from entering the island by the excuses of security and industrial concerns. Asked to comment on Chinese mainland auto brand BYD intending to import its vehicles from Thailand through Taiwan-based agents for sale in the island. The DPP authorities stated that, for reasons of safety and industrial development, they will strictly block mainland-made brand vehicles from entering the Taiwan market in various ways and that "they are considering regulatory measures, and expect to announce them before the end of the year," Zhu warned that the move would "undermine the rights of businesses and consumers on both sides, and further erode Taiwan's market environment and investment climate." Zhu said that mainland products, including new-energy vehicles, are popular with consumers worldwide for their innovative technology and superior performance. Strengthening cross-Straits cooperation in relevant areas will be a tangible boon for both the Taiwan's consumers and the island's industry. "The DPP authorities, driven by selfish interests, have disregarded the Taiwan people's desire for high-quality products and the industry's calls for strengthened cross-Straits industrial cooperation," Zhu said. Under the guise of so-called safety concerns, the DPP authorities are preventing Taiwan compatriots from purchasing and using high-quality mainland products and are actively suppressing cross-Straits economic exchanges and cooperation. This perverse practice harms the rights and interests of businesses and consumers on both sides of the Straits and undermines and deteriorates Taiwan's market and business environment, Zhu said. China's auto exports have surged in recent years, with electric vehicles accounting for a growing share. China's automobile exports hit 575,000 units in July, with new-energy vehicles driving the growth, data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) showed on Monday. Total shipments in the first seven months stood at 3.68 million units, up 12.8 percent year-on-year. NEVs remained the main growth engine, with exports exceeding 225,000 units in July, up 10 percent from June and more than doubling year-on-year, according to the CAAM. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2025/08/13 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Date 6 a.m. Aug. 12 (Tue.) to 6 a.m. Aug. 13 (Wed.) (UTC+8) PLA activities 14 sorties of PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 out of 14 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities. 1140813_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window] 1140813_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan [Open a new window] NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Mainland condemns Taiwan institution's distortion of war against Japanese aggression People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:57, August 14, 2025 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Taiwan DPP's "information cocoon" is collapsing, says mainland spokesperson People's Daily Online (Xinhua) 08:47, August 14, 2025 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PM call with Prime Minister Schoof of the Netherlands: 13 August 2025 Press release The Prime Minister's call with Prime Minister Dick Schoof of the Netherlands. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 13 August 2025 The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof earlier today. They discussed their sustained support for Ukraine and the ongoing work to end Russia's barbaric war. They agreed that there should be no decisions about the future of Ukraine without Ukraine. They looked forward to discussing further in this afternoon's meetings alongside President Trump and President Zelenskyy. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SSU successfully counters russia's Sabotage Noise plan that involves scaling up terrorist attacks and explosions across Ukraine - Vasyl Maliuk Security Service of Ukraine 22:00, 12 August 2025 The Security Service of Ukraine is neutralizing enemy sabotage activities at early stages and exposing russian agent networks. The Service is successfully counteracting to the russian plan called Sabotage Noise, which was personally approved by putin at the end of 2023. This enemy plan involves sabotage and terrorist attacks throughout Ukraine. This was stated by the Head of the SSU, Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk, during an interview with We Are Ukraine (My - Ukraina) TV channel during the Unified News telethon. 'It all started with the arson of ordinary cars, then they started using improvised explosive devices. However, we are very effective in preventing this. Almost 80% of all such criminal acts are uncovered preemptively, we avert them. The institution of double agents plays a very important role here. The enemy firmly believes that there is a source, but in reality, these are our patriotic citizens. We have created an intelligence network covering every region. This allows us to control the situation and detain enemy accomplices timely,' emphasized Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk. He also added that since the start of the full-scale invasion, the SSU Counterintelligence has dismantled 118 russian agent networks. 'Among them are those who collected information about Ukraine's Defense Forces, prepared attacks, and even those who prepared an assassination attempt on the President. These are intelligence networks of various calibers, but each of them is an organized form of criminal activity against the foundations of national security. So far, SSU investigators have notified over 3 500 individuals of suspicion of high treason, and we have more than 1 000 convictions. On average, the court sentences them to 12-13 years, but there are also life sentences,' informed the Head of the Security Service. According to Vasyl Maliuk, the fight against enemy agent networks is under the personal control of President Volodymyr Zelenskyi. A separate important area for the SSU is self-cleansing from russian influence. The Head of State personally oversaw the investigation of cases involving Koziura and Kulinich. 'Koziura is really a top 'rat'. We were documenting him for a long time, and in the process there were 14 episodes of him passing disinformation to the enemy. That is, we deliberately gave him information, which he passed on to the other side. And the FSB applauded: they thought they had obtained top-level information. In reality, we were misleading them. At a certain stage, everything came to its logical conclusion and the decision was made to detain him. As for Kulinich, he is also in custody. Our Counterintelligence and Investigation units are working effectively, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for that,' the SSU Chairman remarked. Vasyl Maliuk said that the Security Service continues to actively cooperate with its Western colleagues, thanks to which it is possible to neutralize russian information and psychological operations. Together with international partners, the SSU dismantled the organization Voice of Europe, which was created by Viktor Medvedchuk and former CEO of Channel 112 Artem Marchevsky, and, as part of international cooperation, detained and transferred propagandist Kyryl Molchanov to Ukraine. 'First of all, I would like to thank the Counterintelligence units of the Czech Republic, with whom we, our National Statehood Protection Department and our investigators, were able to document this organization. As a result, sanctions were imposed on these individuals, and the entire operation was shut down. As for Molchanov, it was an interesting counterintelligence and operational combination. He traveled to Europe from russia, carrying out tasks for the FSB's fifth service, and was supposed to organize certain anti-Ukrainian rallies there. We worked with our Polish colleagues to put together a totally legit plan, and he was charged right at the border crossing on Ukrainian territory,' said the Head of the SSU. He also noted that over the past year russia spent USD 4.6 billion on information war against Ukraine. In addition, russia has 19 institutions working to influence Ukrainian citizens through information. 'Therefore, given the current situation, we must turn the country into a 'steel porcupine'. Our war is a war between the Good and the Evil. The Good always wins, and we understand this. We are the Good in this situation. That is why we are working and doing our job,' Vasyl Maliuk concluded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'SSU is one of the leaders among Defense Forces in long-range strikes. We've hit over 200 targets deep inside russia' - Vasyl Maliuk Security Service of Ukraine 21:35, 12 August 2025 The Security Service of Ukraine is one of the leaders among the Defense Forces in terms of deep strikes - long-range strikes using unmanned systems. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the Service has struck over 200 targets deep inside russian territory. The Head of the SSU, Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk informed about this in an interview with We Are Ukraine (My - Ukraina) TV Channel during the United News telethon. 'First and foremost, we think about how to work effectively in the interests of the front and support the soldiers who are on the front lines. We have already hit over 200 russian targets deep behind the enemy line: this includes military-industrial complex, logistics and command posts. We are also targeting the oil and gas industry, which feeds their ministry of defense with dirty rubles. The SSU Special Operations Center 'A' is very successful in this area. It is essentially the flagship of this type of air operation, not only within the Service, but overall in Ukraine. This work is ongoing,' Vasyl Maliuk emphasized. Among the examples of successful strikes that had a major impact on the situation at the front, the SSU Head mentioned the strike on an enemy ammunition depot in the village of Toropets, where half of all the russian 120-mm mines were destroyed in a single operation. 'There were 160 000 tons of enemy ammunition, half of all reserves of 120 mm mines. It was a huge success! We used 120 drones, and another 20 drones were launched together with us by other Defense Forces units. Here, as in many other matters, the main thing is our unity. And when the SSU, the Unmanned Systems Forces, the Defense Intelligence, the Special Operations Forces, the Foreign Intelligence, and the Border Guards join forces, together we carry out unique operations,' said Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk. The SSU Head added that the Service is actively involved in direct combat operations across the entire front line. 'We work on the front line all the time, along the entire line of combat, on a rotational basis. These are various operations: general military ops, work in small tactical groups, and counter-sabotage work,' Vasyl Maliuk informed. Among other things, SSU units are using the latest combat tactics, including unique drone assault operations. One of the first examples of its use was the SSU's special operation in Kursk. 'Last year, there was an assault on a company stronghold in Kursk, near the village of Sverdlikovo. There were over a hundred russian soldiers there. There were Kadyrovites, officers, and other quite well-trained enemy personnel. First, we conducted drone preparation: we flew our drones into every opening of this company stronghold. We also worked with ground-based robotic systems, and then the servicemen went to assault in small groups, over which our FPVs were also hovering. As soon as there was a threat and fire contact, we immediately struck with these drones,' said Vasyl Maliuk. According to him, 102 russian servicemen were captured during this assault, and more than 20 were killed. The Security Service is now actively conducting such drone assault operations across the entire front line. 'Even this week, if we talk about Pokrovsk direction, it so happened that the enemy infiltrated in small groups and entered the city. The ruscists call this a 'small cuts tactic'. They simply scatter in cellars and houses, and we respond with counter-sabotage operations. Every corner must be searched, and if the enemy is detected, they must be neutralized. Our teams carried out the necessary work and achieved results: many scoundrels were destroyed and taken prisoner,' noted the Lieutenant General. He also pointed out that not only the Special Operations Center is directly involved in combat and deep strikes, but also the personnel of other units of the Service: Main Directorates 'D' and 'I', Cyber Security Department, Counterintelligence and Military Counterintelligence, and regional offices of the Service. The Head of the Service reminded that the SSU Special Operations Center 'A' regularly ranks among the top three units of the Defense Forces in terms of destroying enemy manpower and equipment using UAVs. Therefore, the Verkhovna Rada and President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi decided to scale up this experience by increasing the strength of the SSU Special Operations Center 'A' to 10 000. 'We must understand that today our country must become a 'steel porcupine'. This applies to personnel, air defense, robotic systems, etc. Therefore, increasing the Alfa unit's number will automatically increase the number of enemy equipment and personnel destroyed,' concluded the SSU Chief Vasyl Maliuk. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address SSU detains enemy informant who spied on air defense units and military convoys in Dnipropetrovsk region Security Service of Ukraine 10:00, 12 August 2025 The SSU Counterintelligence has detained another enemy informant in Dnipropetrovsk region. He adjusted russian missile and drone attacks on Pavlohrad and tracked the movement of Defense Forces convoys. The occupiers' tasks were carried out by their local accomplice, a 30-year-old unemployed man, who came to their attention through Telegram channels offering easy money. After recruitment, the asset began to walk around the front-line city and its suburbs to identify and photograph backup command posts of Ukrainian defenders, as well as the locations of the AFU air defense systems. The agent was also supposed to help russia identify Defense Forces cargo trains, determine their number, armament transported and direction of movement. To do this, he installed a phone camera with a power bank and remote access for his handler opposite the railway tracks. The camera was disguised in a juice box. The SSU apprehended the traitor as he was hiding the spy device near the railway line. Simultaneously, action was taken to protect the locations of Ukrainian troops. SSU investigators notified the detainee of suspicion under Article 114-2.3 of the CCU (unauthorized dissemination of information about movement, transfer or location of the AFU, committed under martial law). The suspect is in custody without bail and faces up to 12 years in prison. The operation was carried out by the SSU Office in Dnipropetrovsk region under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor's Office. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prime Minister Carney participates in a virtual meeting in support of Ukraine Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney August 13, 2025 Ottawa, Ontario Today, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, participated in a virtual meeting of the Coalition of the Willing on support for Ukraine. The Coalition welcomed the leadership and initiative of President Trump and the United States and discussed ongoing efforts toward securing peace in Ukraine, in the context of upcoming ceasefire negotiations between the United States and Russia taking place in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday, August 15, 2025. The leaders underscored their unity on shared principles, including that decisions on the future of Ukraine must be made by Ukrainians, that international borders cannot be changed by force, that diplomatic engagement must be reinforced by military and economic pressure on Russia to end its aggression, and the need for credible security guarantees to enable Ukraine to defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Prime Minister Carney affirmed Canada's steadfast support for Ukraine, including through $2 billion in new military support and the disbursement of a $2.3 billion loan through the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration Loans mechanism. The meeting was co-chaired by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, and the Chancellor of Germany, Friedrich Merz. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, also participated in the Coalition of the Willing meeting. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ahead of Alaska talks about Ukraine, Commissioner for Human Rights O'Flaherty calls for anchoring peace negotiations in human rights Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Strasbourg 13 August 2025 News reports around the planned meeting between the US and Russian presidents in Alaska this week have so far been dominated by discourse about security and territory. While the international community's continuing commitment to ending the war in Ukraine is encouraging, it is crucial that human rights are integrated into peace negotiations. A comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine can only be achieved if it is anchored in the international human rights framework. As the only universally agreed roadmap for honouring human dignity, human rights provide the reliable framework for settling disputes and form a solid foundation for just and sustainable peace-making. The best long-term defence against Russian aggression is to stand by our principles and defend the human rights and values that are under attack. Ukraine, as the sovereign state that is the target of Russia's illegal aggression, must always be present at the negotiating table as pointed out by Alain Berset, the Secretary General of the Council of Europe. Those responsible for gross human rights violations and international crimes must be held accountable. Victims should receive reparations. All prisoners of war and all civilian detainees, including children, must be released. The human rights of people living in territories of Ukraine temporarily occupied by Russia, to the extent that these areas may continue to be under occupation, must be respected. My recent Memorandum on human rights elements for peace in Ukraine offers insights into how to address these and other issues. Any peace agreement will be fragile unless human rights concerns are explicitly acknowledged and respected. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press statement by President Antonio Costa following the coordination meetings on Ukraine between European Union leaders, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump European Council / Council of the European Union European Council Statements and remarks 13 August 2025 17:35 First of all, I would like to thank President Macron for welcoming me here today during my holidays in France[, to change my clothes] for this very important working meeting with President Trump. We are here to work hand in hand towards a common goal, namely achieving a ceasefire and a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. President Macron has already summarised the outcome of this meeting very well. President Trump shared three very important objectives with us. First of all, a ceasefire. Secondly, the principle that only Ukraine can negotiate matters concerning Ukraine, and lastly, the United States' willingness to work together with Europe to strengthen the security situation once we achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine. I would like to express my best wishes for the success of Friday's meeting between President Putin and President Trump to secure a ceasefire and pave the way for peace in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Government earmarks SEK 100 million to civil society in Ukraine and its neighbourhood Government Offices of Sweden Press release from Ministry of Education and Research, Ministry for Foreign Affairs Published 13 August 2025 The Government is strengthening its support to civil society organisations in Ukraine and its neighbourhood by earmarking SEK 100 million within the Strategy for Sweden's Development Cooperation with Civil Society in 2025-2029. "Every day, Ukraine is fighting not only for its own freedom, but for ours. Civil society in particular has shown enormous resilience despite Russia's brutal war of aggression. That's why we are now allocating SEK 100 million to civil society in Ukraine and its neighbourhood to increase the country's capacity and long-term reconstruction," says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa. "Civil society is playing a key role in the defence of Ukraine, as well as the ability to build a strong society in the long term. Here, too, it is important that Sweden contributes," says Minister for Education and Integration Simona Mohamsson. "Ukraine has been subjected to immense attacks by Russia. The country's resilience, despite Russia's long-term and persistent aggression, is a result of strong civilian cohesion. We're now earmarking SEK 100 million with this targeted investment," says Gudrun Brunegard, development assistance policy spokesperson for the Christian Democrats. The Government's decision means that funds within the framework of the Strategy for Sweden's Development Cooperation with Civil Society in 2025-2029 will particularly target activities in Ukraine, but also countries affected by Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine and its actions in neighbouring countries, such as Armenia, Moldova, Georgia and Belarus. Earmarking SEK 100 million will ensure civil society organisations' ability to contribute with urgent humanitarian operations, support to democratic movements and human rights defenders, and to long-term reconstruction in a region where civil society's capacity and resilience are vital. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Naftogaz to receive EUR 500 million from EBRD for gas procurement: largest agreement in Ukraine signed Ukraine Government Communications Department of the Secretariat of the CMU, posted 13 August 2025 11:14 Naftogaz of Ukraine and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development have signed a EUR 500 million agreement for gas purchases. This was announced by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. "Naftogaz and the EBRD have signed a record agreement for Ukraine - EUR 500 million for gas purchases. This is the bank's largest project in our country. Most importantly, for the first time, such a loan is being provided under an EU guarantee, without a state guarantee from Ukraine," the Head of Government emphasised. According to the Prime Minister, this will allow Ukraine to better prepare for the heating season and provide Ukrainian homes with heat and light even on the most difficult days of winter. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko expressed her gratitude to the EBRD and the EU for their support, and to the Government and Naftogaz teams for their professional work. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The President at the meeting of the Coalition of the Willing: Ukraine's participation and security guarantees are key to achieving peace President of the Republic of Lithuania August 13, 2025 On Wednesday, President Gitanas Nauseda participated in a remote meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, which discussed the situation in Ukraine and the upcoming meeting between the Presidents of the United States and Russia. The Head of State emphasized that Russia's fourth year of war of aggression against Ukraine has a significant impact on the security of Europe as a whole. While efforts to end the war are welcome, they have to be based on terms favorable to both Ukraine and Europe. According to Gitanas Nauseda, it is crucial that peace in Ukraine is not decided without Ukraine; therefore, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky should take part in future meetings. Although Ukraine is ready for a genuine, fair, and comprehensive peace process, it cannot be required to give up its territories. Even more so, such a requirement cannot be a precondition for a ceasefire. "A comprehensive ceasefire without preconditions is essential before any real negotiations can begin," said the Lithuanian President, welcoming the participants' unanimous agreement on the fundamental principles for achieving a lasting and sustainable peace in Ukraine. President Gitanas Nauseda also underscored that comprehensive and reliable security guarantees for Ukraine have to form an integral part of any agreement. "We need to be prepared to deploy forces to ensure security in Ukraine as soon as conditions allow," said the President, adding that Lithuania stands ready to contribute troops and military training capabilities to a joint force. The remote meeting was attended by the heads of state and government of the Coalition of the Willing, as well as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa. The Coalition of the Willing, established in February 2025 at the initiative of France and the United Kingdom, aims to support Ukraine's independence and sovereignty and to back a ceasefire once it is agreed. More than 30 countries, primarily NATO and EU members, participate in the coalition. The President's Communication Group NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Germany to fund $500m PURL package for Ukraine NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 13 Aug. 2025 Germany announced today (13 August 2025) that it will fund a $500 million package of military equipment and munitions for Ukraine sourced from the United States, under NATO's new Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the announcement as a strong demonstration of Germany's enduring commitment to Ukraine's defence. "I commend Germany for stepping up once again. This delivery will help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression," said the Secretary General. "Germany is the largest European contributor of military aid to Ukraine, and today's announcement further underlines its commitment to help the Ukrainian people defend their freedom and sovereignty," he added. Germany's contribution under the PURL initiative follows earlier announcements by the Netherlands, and a joint pledge from Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Each package is valued at around $500 million, and is designed to meet Ukraine's most urgent operational requirements with equipment and munitions sourced from U.S. stockpiles. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Remote, Symbolic, Strategic: Alaska Takes Center Stage For Trump-Putin Meeting By Todd Prince August 13, 2025 Summary US President Trump and Russian President Putin will meet in Alaska on August 15 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Alaska was chosen for its equidistant location between Washington and Moscow, its historical ties to Russia, and its logistical and security advantages. Alaska's remote location minimizes large-scale demonstrations against Putin. 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. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/alaska-trump-putin-meeting- ukraine/33502210.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Warns Russia Of 'Very Severe Consequences' If No End To Ukraine War By RFE/RL August 13, 2025 Summary European leaders and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy urged US President Trump to prioritize a cease-fire and protect Ukraine's security in his meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska. Trump aims to broker peace in the 3 1/2-year conflict, with territorial issues to be negotiated only by Ukraine, according to French President Macron. Russia remains resistant to direct talks with Ukraine, while major gaps persist on territory and security despite prior negotiations. 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 that's 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 Trump's efforts to "stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russia's 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. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/alaska-trump-putin-meeting- ukraine/33502210.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Trump Hints at Quick Second Meeting With Putin If First Goes Well Sputnik News 20250813 WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump told reporters on Wednesday that there is a good chance of a prompt second meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin if the first one "goes okay." "There's a very good chance that we're going to have a second meeting [with Putin] which will be more productive than the first, because [in] the first, I'm going to find out where we are and what we're doing again," Trump said. "If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately." Trump emphasized that he views the upcoming meeting with Putin on Friday as "setting the table for the second meeting," which could also include Volodymyr Zelensky. "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 added. The US president also said that a potential meeting between Putin and Zelensky can be organized quickly and he can join it "if they'd like to have me there." Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Open to Territory Talks With 'Contact Line' as Starting Point Merz Sputnik News 20250813 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - 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. "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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon Believes Ukrainian Troops in Krasnoarmeysk at Risk of Encirclement - Reports Sputnik News 20250813 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Pentagon believes that Ukrainian troops in the city of Krasnoarmeysk are under threat of being encircled by Russian forces, media reported on Wednesday, citing a US defense official. The Ukrainian armed forces appear to be establishing a defensive line in the region to impede the advance of Russian troops, as they tried and ultimately failed to hold Artyomovsk in 2023, the report said. Meanwhile, Russia has a significant advantage over Ukraine in terms of troop numbers, weaponry and equipment, while Ukraine is struggling to recruit enough soldiers, the media reported. Krasnoarmeysk is considered one of the most important hubs of the Ukrainian armed forces on the front line in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and within the entire Ukrainian operational-strategic group of troops, Khortytsia. It is through this point that supplies were delivered to the garrisons of Avdeyevka and the cities west of it. In addition, along with Izium, this artery largely "feeds" the northwest of the DPR, which remains under the control of Kiev. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Deploys Azov Battalion Reserves to Krasnoarmeysk Ahead of US-Russia Summit Sputnik News 20250813 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Ukrainian armed forces are transferring reserves to the Krasnoarmeysk direction, including a unit of the ultranationalist Azov* battalion ahead of the Russia-US summit in Alaska, head of the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) Denis Pushilin said on Wednesday. "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. "Speaking generally, the situation along the front line is now, let us say, under full control of our units, and this applies to almost every direction," 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. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine Intensifies Terrorist Attacks on Russian Regions Ahead of US-Russia Summit Sputnik News 20250813 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Kiev is stepping up terrorist activity against Russian regions ahead of the Russia-US summit in Alaska, Deputy Director of the Russian Foreign Ministry's Information and Press Department Alexey Fadeev said on Wednesday. "As the Russian-American summit in Alaska approaches, the Kiev regime is stepping up terrorist activity against our regions. Just last night, from August 12 to 13, our military intercepted and destroyed 46 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones. Including 15 over the Bryansk Region, 11 over the Volgograd Region, as well as over the Rostov, Belgorod, Voronezh regions, over the Krasnodar Territory and the territory of the Republic of Crimea," Fadeev told a briefing. Kiev does not think about peace, and views any negotiations as a way to prolong military operations and retain power, Alexey Fadeev said. "The Kiev regime has never thought about peace and is not doing so now. It views any negotiations as a way to prolong military operations and maintain its own power," Fadeev told a briefing. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia's FSB Says Detained Ukraine's Agent Plotting Arson on Trans-Siberian Railway Sputnik News 20250813 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) said on Wednesday that it had detained Kiev's accomplice in the Kirov Region for plotting an arson on the Trans-Siberian Railway to block transportation in the interests of the special military operation. "The Russian Federal Security Service in the Kirov Region has stopped the activities of a Russian citizen, born in 2006, who joined a terrorist organization supervised by the Ukrainian special services and planned to travel to the zone of a special military operation ... with the aim of going over to the enemy side," the FSB said in a statement. On the instructions of the curator, the attacker painted pro-Ukrainian graffiti in public places and planned to set fire to relay cabinets on the Trans-Siberian Railway to block cargo transportation in the interests of the military operation, the statement read. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement of the Co-chairs of the Coalition of the Willing: 13 August 2025 Press release President Macron, Prime Minister Starmer and Chancellor Merz today co-chaired a virtual meeting of a grouping of 'Coalition of the Willing' Leaders. From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP Published 13 August 2025 President Macron, Prime Minister Starmer and Chancellor Merz today co-chaired a virtual meeting of a grouping of 'Coalition of the Willing' Leaders and with the participation of President Zelenskyy and Vice-President Vance, ahead of President Trump's meeting with President Putin in Alaska. Leaders welcomed President Trump's efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russia's war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace. They welcomed the open discussions with President Trump earlier that day. They were clear that the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. It was necessary to continue an approach that combined active diplomacy, support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia. A diplomatic solution must protect Ukraine's and Europe's vital security interests. They also reiterated that: First, meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or a lasting and significant cessation of hostilities. Second, sanctions and wider economic measures to put pressure on Russia's war economy should be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska. Third, international borders must not be changed by force. Fourth, Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 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 Ukraine's armed forces or on its cooperation with third countries. Russia could not have a veto against Ukraine's pathway to EU and NATO. They confirmed they would continue to cooperate closely with President Trump and with the United States of America, and with President Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine, for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with UNHCR Representative in Ukraine Karolina Lindholm Billing Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 August 2025 16:40 On 13 August, Foreign Minister of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha met with the Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Ukraine Ms. Karolina Lindholm Billing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, as she completes her term of duty in our country. Minister highlighted the substantial contribution of UNHCR and the active personal engagement of Ms. Lindholm Billing in addressing the consequences of Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine and in assisting millions of citizens forced to temporarily leave their homes. "Since February 2022, UNHCR has mobilized more than USD 1.5 billion to assist millions of Ukrainians. I sincerely thank you for your dedication and support," underscored Andrii Sybiha. Since May 2021, during her tenure in Ukraine, Ms. Lindholm Billing has personally led UNHCR missions to the most affected areas of the Sumy, Kharkiv, Kherson, and Mykolaiv regions, facilitating the prompt delivery of assistance to those most in need. As a sign of deep appreciation for her significant contribution to ensuring the humanitarian response under martial law, mobilizing international support, and demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha presented Ms. Karolina Lindholm Billing with the Honorary Diploma of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Andrii Sybiha held phone talks with Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Noel Barrot Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine 13 August 2025 12:38 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha: "Meaningful conversation with my French colleague and friend Jean-Noel Barrot. We exchanged views on the ongoing diplomatic developments and coordinated further efforts to advance peace through strength. Full ceasefire is a fundamental step on this path. Grateful to France for its steadfast support in restoring a just peace and stability in Europe." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denys Shmyhal and the Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom discussed preparations for the next Ramstein-format meeting Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 13 August, 2025, 3:26 PM EEST The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, held talks with the Secretary of State for Defence of the United Kingdom, John Healey. In particular, the parties discussed preparations for the next Ramstein-format meeting. "The meeting is due to take place in September. We have coordinated our main positions. I thanked the United Kingdom for its active preparations and organisation of the meeting," said Denys Shmyhal. The Defence Ministers also discussed the development of joint production and the implementation of bilateral projects in the defence industry. Denys Shmyhal expressed his confidence that the United Kingdom would play an important role in the new US-NATO mechanism, the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL). "I am grateful to our British partners for their high level of support and engagement in strengthening the security of Ukraine and Europe," concluded the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denys Shmyhal discussed the development of joint projects with the CEO of Rheinmetall Group Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 13 August, 2025, 1:38 PM EEST The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, held talks with the CEO of Rheinmetall Group, Armin Papperger. "This is our long-standing and important partner. We have exemplary cooperation in three areas: armored vehicles, ammunition, and air defence systems," said Denys Shmyhal. He noted that the current focus is on developing joint projects in Ukraine, in particular the construction of a factory for the production of artillery shells. During the conversation, the parties discussed key stages and working issues. "We are moving according to plan. I have defined improved coordination mechanisms. We are working together clearly and quickly. We value our cooperation. We are engaging defence companies from all over the world to establish production facilities and R&D centers in Ukraine. We are building strength that will stop aggression and ensure lasting peace," emphasized the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denys Shmyhal held talks with the Minister of Defence of Poland: Development of joint production and the SAFE support mechanism Ministry of Defence of Ukraine 13 August, 2025, 1:20 PM EEST The Minister of Defence of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, held talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of Poland, Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz. "Poland is our reliable friend and partner, which has supported Ukraine since the first minutes of the full-scale invasion," said the Minister of Defence of Ukraine. Denys Shmyhal thanked his Polish counterpart for military assistance, training of Ukrainian service members, and unwavering support. The parties discussed the development of joint production both in Ukraine and in Poland. Denys Shmyhal expressed confidence that the private sector and the defence industry of both countries have significant potential for cooperation and development. As noted by the Minister of Defence of Ukraine, an important tool for such cooperation could be the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative - a large-scale 150 billion EU defence investment program. He called on Poland to actively invest in the priority areas under this mechanism. "We also discussed cooperation through NATO instruments and joint efforts to counter threats. Together, we are strengthening the security of Ukraine and all of Europe," concluded Denys Shmyhal. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coalition of the Willing Discussed Key Points of Security Guarantees for Ukraine, Continued Support, and Development of Joint Projects President of Ukraine 13 August 2025 - 22:31 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the sixth meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, co-chaired by President of France Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer, and Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg also in attendance. Other participants included: President of Finland Alexander Stubb, President of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda, President of Romania Nicusor Dan, Chancellor of Austria Christian Stocker, Prime Minister of Bulgaria Rossen Jeliazkov, Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Croatia Andrej Plenkovic, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Petr Fiala, Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen, Prime Minister of Estonia Kristen Michal, Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Prime Minister of Iceland Kristrun Frostadottir, Taoiseach of Ireland Micheal Martin, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba, Prime Minister of Latvia Evika Silina, Prime Minister of Luxembourg Luc Frieden, Prime Minister of the Netherlands Dick Schoof, Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Portugal Luis Montenegro, Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sanchez, Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson, Vice President of Turkiye Cevdet Ylmaz, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The participants supported the efforts of U.S. President Donald Trump to end the war, stop the killings, and achieve a just and lasting peace. The leaders clearly articulated a shared position: the path to peace cannot be determined without Ukraine. Until Russia agrees to a ceasefire, partners will continue active diplomatic efforts, support for Ukraine, and pressure on Russia. Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for financing Ukrainian drone production to enhance the country's defense capabilities and for joining NATO's new PURL instrument for the procurement of U.S. weapons. This initiative has already secured over one billion dollars from the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. During today's meeting, other partners also expressed their readiness to join. The participants also agreed that negotiations can only yield results if they are held under a ceasefire. The leaders decided that if Russia does not agree to this step during the meeting in Alaska, sanctions against Russia's war economy will be strengthened. In addition, the participants emphasized that international borders cannot be changed by force and that Ukraine, together with other European countries, must have reliable security guarantees. The Coalition of the Willing affirmed its readiness to play an active role in providing them, including through the deployment of a reassurance force from individual countries. The leaders stressed that there can be no restrictions on Ukraine's defense cooperation with other countries, nor can Russia have a veto over Ukraine's accession to the EU and NATO. The meeting participants coordinated the next steps and agreed to continue working in close contact between Ukraine, all of Europe, and the United States. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Leaders of Ukraine and Other European Countries Coordinated Positions with the U.S. Ahead of the Meeting in Alaska President of Ukraine 13 August 2025 - 22:00 Ukraine, all of Europe, and the United States are pursuing a common course. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this following a joint phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders. The conversation took place during the visit of the Ukrainian President to Germany. Participants included Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz, President of France Emmanuel Macron, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni, President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of Poland Karol Nawrocki, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The European representatives noted that they value President Trump's leadership and determination to end the war as soon as possible. In particular, the conversation addressed key things that can ensure peace and make it lasting. The parties coordinated their positions ahead of the meeting in Alaska. Ukraine, all of Europe, and the United States are pursuing a common course. In particular, the killing must stop immediately; diplomacy regarding Ukraine and Europe must be conducted together with Ukraine and Europe; and security must indeed come with strong guarantees. The President of Ukraine emphasized that pressure on Russia works, peace has no alternative, and clear results are needed - results that can be achieved together. Donald Trump proposed a follow-up call after the meeting in Alaska. The conversation also covered possible formats for further contacts and meetings. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine and European Partners Agreed on Five Joint Principles - Volodymyr Zelenskyy President of Ukraine 13 August 2025 - 20:59 Ukraine and its European partners have agreed on five joint principles regarding peace negotiations and conveyed them to U.S. President Donald Trump. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this while speaking to the media alongside Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz. The Head of State began his working visit to Germany with a meeting with the Federal Chancellor, during which they discussed bilateral relations. "We are very grateful to Germany for such a substantial contribution to assistance, to strengthening our state and our security, for bolstering our air defense, and for the support from the very beginning of this war. We deeply appreciate it," the President said. After that, a coordination call was held, in which, together with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz, the following leaders participated online: President of France Emmanuel Macron, President of Finland Alexander Stubb, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, President of the European Council Antonio Costa, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The leaders agreed on five joint principles. According to the Head of State, these include the format of negotiations: everything concerning Ukraine must be discussed with Ukraine. Preparations should be made for a trilateral format of talks. "There must be a ceasefire - number one. There must be security guarantees - truly reliable ones. And today, by the way, President Trump voiced his support for this and the United States' readiness to take part. Among the agreed principles is also that Russia cannot have veto power over Ukraine's European and NATO prospects. And peace talks should be combined with proper pressure on Russia," the President added. The situation on the battlefield was also discussed. Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that the Russian leader is bluffing and trying to exert pressure ahead of the meeting in Alaska. He is also bluffing when he tries to show that sanctions do not matter to him and that they are ineffective. The Head of State emphasized that, on the contrary, sanctions are extremely helpful and hit the Russian war economy hard. After the press conference, the leaders took part in a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, which focused on the future security architecture. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by the President of Ukraine at a Joint Press Conference with the Federal Chancellor of Germany President of Ukraine 13 August 2025 - 19:05 Thank you very much, Friedrich. Thank you, Germany, for the invitation. Today, the Chancellor and I are working in four formats. The first is our bilateral track - thank you - covering all the points we discussed regarding our bilateral relations. We are very grateful to Germany for such a substantial contribution to assistance, to strengthening our state and our security, for bolstering our air defense, and for the support from the very beginning of this war. We deeply appreciate it. Then we worked at the level of European leaders. The third track was a conversation with the President of the United States of America. And we will conclude, after the press conference, with our format on future security - the security infrastructure for our state - namely, the Coalition of the Willing. First of all, I want to thank all our partners for supporting Ukraine. Today, we spoke with President Trump, President von der Leyen, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Stubb, President of France Emmanuel Macron, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Meloni, and the President of Poland. Since last Wednesday, there have been very intensive communications - dozens of them - among all of us: between European leaders, between Europe and the United States of America, between us and representatives of other parts of the world who seek only one thing - peace in Ukraine, peace in Europe. Today, we discussed our joint positions with the President of the United States of America. Before that, as I mentioned, there was a coordination call. We agreed on joint principles - five principles mentioned by Friedrich. I want to thank you, Friedrich, for your leadership in this direction. Namely: the format of negotiations - everything concerning Ukraine must be discussed exclusively with Ukraine. We need to prepare a trilateral format of talks. There must be a ceasefire - number one. There must be security guarantees - truly reliable ones. And today, by the way, President Trump voiced his support for this and the United States' readiness to take part. Among the agreed principles is also that Russia cannot have veto power over Ukraine's European and NATO prospects. And peace talks should be combined with proper pressure on Russia. Sanctions must be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska. These are effective principles. It is important that they work. Of course, we discussed the situation on the battlefield today. I told the President of the United States of America and all our European colleagues: "Putin is bluffing." He is trying to exert pressure ahead of the meeting in Alaska on all sectors of the Ukrainian front. Russia is attempting to portray itself as capable of occupying all of Ukraine. That is undoubtedly what they want. Putin is also bluffing when pretending that sanctions are not important to him and ineffective. In reality, sanctions are extremely helpful and hit the Russian war economy hard. Yes, it is true that Russia has several times more weapons - including artillery, three times as much - and the like, but it also suffers three times as many losses. And that is a fact. I told my colleagues - the President of the United States and our European friends - that Putin certainly has no intention of making peace; he wants to occupy our country. And we all truly understand this. Putin will not be able to deceive anyone. We need continued pressure for the sake of peace - through not only American sanctions, but also European ones. And together, our alliance of partners can truly stop Putin's war. We talked about the meeting in Alaska. We hope that the central topic of the meeting will be a ceasefire - an immediate ceasefire - as the President of the United States of America has repeatedly stated. He suggested to me that after the meeting in Alaska we have a conversation to discuss all the results - if there are any - and to determine our next joint steps. Now we will have a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing for peace and security. This is truly our goal. This is what we are working for. Thank you to everyone who helps us! Thank you again, Friedrich! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) between December 12, 2024 and June 30, 2025, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important September 8, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Centene 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 Centene class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41552 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 8, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period provided investors with material information concerning Centenes expected revenue guidance and adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the 2025 fiscal year. Defendants statements included, among other things, confidence in Centenes enrollment and morbidity rates, as well as strong retention rates in Centenes Medicare business. Defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while simultaneously disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Centenes enrollment and morbidity rates. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. To join the Centene class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41552 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, 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 VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Madison Pacific Properties Inc. (the Company) (TSX: MPC and MPC.C), a Vancouver-based real estate company announces the results of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2025. In July 2024, the Companys Board of Directors approved a change of financial year-end of the Company from August 31 to December 31. This change of year-end is effective for the financial year commencing September 1, 2024. The comparative figures presented for the six months ended June 30, 2025 are the six months ended May 31, 2024. The results reported are pursuant to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for public companies. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the Company is reporting a net income of $22.4 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: $13.6 million); cash flows generated from operating activities before changes in non-cash operating balances of $6.0 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: $6.3 million); and income per share of $0.30 (six months ended May 31, 2024: $0.23). Net income includes a net gain on the fair value adjustment on investment properties of approximately $21.9 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: $9.7 million), interest income of $0.5 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: $1.3 million), interest expense of $7.6 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: $6.3 million), and equity losses of associate and joint ventures of $0.8 million (six months ended May 31, 2024: earnings of $0.8 million). As at June 30, 2025, the Company owns approximately $741 million in investment properties (December 31, 2024: $724 million). As at the date of this Press Release, the Companys investment portfolio comprises 54 properties with approximately 2.0 million rentable sq. ft. of industrial and commercial space and a 50% interest in eight multi-family rental properties with a total of 239 units. Approximately 97.95% of available space within the industrial and commercial investment properties is currently leased and within the multi-family residential properties, 99.16% is currently leased. The Companys development properties include a 50% interest in the Silverdale Hills Limited Partnership which currently owns approximately 1,425 acres of primarily residential designated development lands in Mission, British Columbia. For a review of the risks and uncertainties to which the Company is subject, see its most recently filed annual and interim MD&A. The board of directors is pleased to announce that Dino Di Marco will be appointed President & CEO of the Company effective September 1, 2025. John DeLucchi will continue in his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mr. Di Marco brings a strong knowledge of the Companys business having been its Chief Financial Officer from 2013 to 2021. Mr. Di Marco has held various leadership roles within the Madison Group and recently was the President and CEO of the Madison Industrial Group. Mr. Di Marco is a Chartered Professional Accountant and Chartered Accountant and has held various leadership roles in the multi-family residential development and technology sectors. We thank Mr. DeLucchi for his leadership and contribution to the growth and success of the company over the last few years and look forward to his continued involvement at the board level supporting the management team. The board is also pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Pringle as a director of the Company. Mr. Pringle had a distinguished career with CIBC for over 20 years including roles as Director, Commercial Banking and Regional Manager. After leaving CIBC, Mr. Pringle was recruited as CEO of United Flower Growers which became a leader in the floral business. Mr. Pringle also served as a director of Metro Vancouver Properties Corp. (MVP) prior to MVP going private in 2024. We look forward to working with Mr. Pringle as a director of the Company moving forward. The Company is also pleased to announce that a $.0525 per share dividend on each of the Class B voting common shares and Class C non-voting shares will be payable on September 3, 2025 to shareholders of record on August 25, 2025. The dividend is considered an eligible dividend for tax purposes. New York, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ROK Financial Streamlines Equipment Financing from $10,000 to $5 Million for All Industries ROK Financial has announced expanded access to its nationwide equipment financing programs, delivering fast and flexible funding solutions for businesses in every sector. Designed for transactions ranging from $10,000 to $5 million, the companys streamlined process leverages advanced technology and a diverse lending network to match clients with competitive offers in record time. Whether a business is upgrading heavy machinery, investing in medical devices, or securing new technology infrastructure, ROK Financial provides options tailored to each clients goals and credit profile. Businesses interested in exploring their options can get an instant pre-approval for equipment financing through ROK Financials simple online application, often in 15 seconds or less. Market Context and Why Equipment Financing Matters Now In todays competitive economy, the ability to acquire, upgrade, and deploy business-critical equipment quickly can mean the difference between leading the market and falling behind. Industries across the United States face rising costs for machinery, vehicles, and technology, while simultaneously navigating tighter margins and increased competition. For many companies, paying for these assets upfront can drain working capital, limit operational flexibility, and slow growth. Equipment financing has become a strategic solution for overcoming these challenges. By spreading the cost of essential assets over time, businesses can preserve cash flow, invest in other growth initiatives, and avoid the financial strain of a large one-time purchase. From construction companies needing heavy equipment to medical practices investing in advanced diagnostic tools, the ability to secure financing at scale allows businesses to adapt faster, serve more clients, and compete more effectively. ROK Financials programs address these needs by offering flexible funding from $10,000 to $5 million, with terms that can be customized to the clients industry, revenue cycle, and future plans. This approach ensures that each financing arrangement is not just a transaction, but a growth tool designed to position the business for long-term success. Companies ready to explore these benefits can begin the process in minutes. How ROK Financials Equipment Financing Process Works ROK Financial has built its equipment financing process to be fast, transparent, and adaptable to businesses at every stage of growth. By combining a nationwide network of lenders with advanced technology, the company is able to guide applicants from initial inquiry to funded deal in a matter of days. This streamlined approach is designed to help companies act on opportunities quickly, without sacrificing due diligence or financial clarity. The process begins with a short, user-friendly online application that can often be completed in 15 seconds. Applicants provide basic details such as business name, contact information, credit score range, time in business, and estimated equipment cost. This information is used to match the applicant with the most competitive financing options in real time, based on industry, location, and specific funding requirements. Once the application is submitted, a dedicated ROK Financial loan advisor reviews the details and reaches out to discuss available programs. This one-on-one consultation allows business owners to ask questions, clarify repayment terms, and identify the structure that best aligns with their operational cash flow. For some clients, that may mean a short-term financing option to pay off equipment quickly. For others, it could involve a longer-term arrangement that minimizes monthly obligations while preserving working capital for other needs. In many cases, applicants can receive a conditional approval within hours and proceed to underwriting the same day. Thanks to ROK Financials fintech-enabled system, document verification and lender communication happen in parallel, reducing the traditional waiting period. Once final approval is granted, funds can be disbursed and equipment purchased within just a few business days. This focus on speed and customization makes ROK Financial a strategic partner for businesses that need to move fast in competitive markets. Whether replacing outdated production equipment or scaling up operations with new technology, the ability to secure funding quickly can provide a significant competitive advantage. Business owners can learn more about ROK Financials equipment financing process and explore their options today. Who Can Qualify for ROK Financials Equipment Financing Programs One of the most significant advantages of ROK Financials approach is its accessibility. While traditional lenders often require extensive operating history, high credit scores, and substantial collateral, ROK Financial offers solutions designed to meet the needs of a much broader range of business owners. This includes established corporations, rapidly growing companies, and even startups that may not yet have a lengthy financial track record. Credit flexibility is a core part of the programs appeal. Many of ROK Financials financing options are available to businesses with a minimum FICO score of just 580. This opens the door for entrepreneurs who have strong business plans and revenue potential but may have experienced past credit challenges. The companys lending network evaluates multiple factors beyond just credit score including time in business, industry, annual revenue, and the specific type of equipment being financed to create a comprehensive approval profile. Time in business is another area where ROK Financial stands apart. While many traditional banks set a hard minimum of two years in operation, ROK Financial offers programs with no minimum time in business requirement. For newer companies, initial financing amounts may be capped at $50,000, but these arrangements provide a valuable starting point for building financing history and upgrading equipment over time. ROK Financial also works across virtually every industry sector. From medical practices purchasing advanced diagnostic tools to construction firms upgrading heavy equipment, trucking companies expanding their fleets, restaurants installing commercial-grade kitchen appliances, and technology startups investing in critical infrastructure the companys solutions are designed to meet a wide range of operational needs. By focusing on flexibility, speed, and industry-specific customization, ROK Financial ensures that equipment financing can be an option for far more business owners than traditional lenders allow. Businesses ready to find out if they qualify can begin the simple application process today and receive pre-approval in minutes. Benefits of Choosing ROK Financial for Equipment Financing Selecting the right financing partner is just as important as choosing the equipment itself. With ROK Financial, businesses gain access to a combination of speed, flexibility, and transparency that directly impacts growth potential. The companys model is built on removing traditional barriers and ensuring each client receives a solution tailored to their needs. One of the most important benefits is speed to funding. In many industries, the ability to acquire new equipment quickly can make or break a project deadline or customer contract. ROK Financials process, powered by AI-driven matching and a broad lender network, enables many clients to move from application to funding in just days. This rapid turnaround can be critical for businesses responding to seasonal demand, sudden market opportunities, or emergency equipment replacements. Another key advantage is flexibility in loan structure. Because no two businesses are the same, ROK Financial works to align repayment terms with a clients revenue cycle. For example, a construction company with seasonal peaks may opt for structured payments that match high-revenue months, while a medical practice with steady patient flow might choose evenly distributed monthly payments over a longer term. Loan amounts can range from $10,000 to $5 million, with repayment terms from 12 months to 5 years, ensuring solutions for both smaller-scale purchases and large capital investments. Transparency is also a defining factor. Through its offer calculator and advisor-led consultations, ROK Financial ensures clients understand exactly what to expect in terms of rates, fees, and repayment schedules. This eliminates uncertainty and builds trust from the very start of the relationship. Lastly, ROK Financials reputation in the industry carries weight. Backed by thousands of five-star reviews and a proven record of success across multiple sectors, the company has established itself as a reliable partner for both small businesses and large enterprises. This credibility reassures clients that they are working with a team capable of delivering results. For companies ready to experience these advantages, exploring ROK Financials equipment financing options is the first step toward securing the tools and machinery needed to drive growth. ROK Financials role as a national funding partner has been recognized in prior coverage, including Yahoo Finances report on its expanded merchant cash advance programs. Industry-Specific Equipment Financing Solutions ROK Financial understands that each industry has unique operational requirements, cash flow patterns, and equipment needs. Thats why the company offers tailored financing solutions designed to fit the realities of specific sectors, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all lending models. In construction, for example, access to heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and cranes can directly impact the ability to win contracts and complete projects on time. ROK Financial works with contractors to secure financing that aligns with project timelines, allowing for rapid acquisition and deployment of equipment without straining budgets. Medical practices and healthcare facilities often face high upfront costs for essential equipment like MRI machines, surgical instruments, and diagnostic tools. With specialized financing programs, ROK Financial enables these businesses to obtain cutting-edge technology while preserving working capital for staffing, patient care, and facility improvements. For transportation and logistics companies, keeping fleets updated is critical for meeting delivery deadlines and maintaining safety standards. Whether adding new semi-trucks or upgrading trailers, ROK Financials programs offer repayment schedules designed to match seasonal fluctuations in demand, ensuring predictable cash flow management. Restaurants and hospitality businesses benefit from financing options for commercial ovens, refrigeration units, point-of-sale systems, and more. These upgrades can improve efficiency, meet regulatory requirements, and enhance customer experience, all without requiring a large one-time expenditure. Technology firms, manufacturing plants, and other high-growth industries also rely on ROK Financial for funding high-value assets such as servers, automation systems, and precision manufacturing equipment. By matching each financing package to the unique operational rhythms of the industry, ROK Financial helps ensure that equipment investments translate into measurable business growth. Business owners in any sector can start their tailored financing journey by completing ROK Financials quick and secure online application. The Role of Technology in ROK Financials Financing Process Technology is at the core of ROK Financials ability to deliver fast, competitive, and flexible equipment financing. By integrating advanced AI-driven matching systems with a diverse national lender network, the company can rapidly align applicants with the most suitable funding offers available. This approach eliminates the delays and inefficiencies often seen in traditional financing models. When a business submits an application, ROK Financials platform instantly analyzes factors such as industry, equipment type, credit profile, and geographic location. Using this data, it generates a shortlist of lending partners whose programs are the best match for that specific borrower. This precision matching not only accelerates the approval process but also increases the likelihood of securing favorable terms. ROK Intelligence, the companys proprietary technology, plays an important role in maintaining transparency. Applicants can use the offer calculator to see detailed breakdowns of terms, rates, and repayment schedules before committing. This allows business owners to make fully informed decisions without the uncertainty that comes with hidden fees or unclear timelines. The technology also streamlines underwriting by enabling secure, real-time document uploads and verifications. This reduces the back-and-forth communication and redundant requests that slow down funding in traditional channels. As a result, many clients can move from initial application to equipment purchase in a fraction of the time it would take with a standard lender. By combining speed, accuracy, and transparency, ROK Financials technology-driven approach turns equipment financing into a strategic advantage for clients. Businesses can see how the ROK Intelligence platform works and start their application with confidence, knowing theyll be matched with competitive options tailored to their goals. Customer Success Stories and Testimonials ROK Financials impact is best understood through the experiences of the businesses it has helped. Across industries, clients consistently point to the companys speed, transparency, and personal approach as key reasons they choose to return for future financing needs. One small manufacturing company in the Midwest secured $750,000 in funding to replace aging production equipment. Facing increasing orders and tight deadlines, the business needed to upgrade machinery without interrupting operations. ROK Financials team structured a repayment plan that matched the companys seasonal revenue patterns, allowing for smooth cash flow while boosting output capacity by 40% within the first year. A medical practice in the Southeast needed an advanced diagnostic imaging system to expand its range of patient services. With a purchase price exceeding $1 million, the equipment represented a major investment. ROK Financials advisors secured financing with competitive terms, enabling the practice to introduce new treatments, attract additional patients, and improve overall care without taking on unnecessary financial strain. Even new businesses have seen measurable results. A startup logistics company with less than a year in operation obtained $50,000 to purchase its first delivery vehicle fleet. This initial investment allowed the company to expand its service area, meet demand more efficiently, and build a track record for future funding opportunities. Clients also praise the level of support provided throughout the process. One business owner described their experience by saying, ROK Financial was with me every step of the way and answered every question I had. They made the process simple and stress-free, and Ill be coming back for my next round of funding. These stories highlight how ROK Financials personalized approach helps businesses not just secure equipment but achieve long-term growth. Companies ready to take the next step can start their own success story with a quick and secure pre-approval process. How to Get Started with ROK Financial Beginning the equipment financing process with ROK Financial is designed to be straightforward, fast, and free of unnecessary complexity. The companys streamlined application process allows business owners to move from initial inquiry to funding without delays, giving them the ability to act on opportunities as they arise. The first step is to complete ROK Financials simple online application, which can often be done in as little as 15 seconds. Applicants will provide essential details such as their name, business information, credit score range, and the type of equipment they wish to finance. This initial submission is secure and does not impact the applicants credit score. Once the application is submitted, ROK Financials advanced matching system immediately connects the applicant with programs from its extensive lender network. A dedicated loan advisor then reaches out to discuss the options in detail, explain repayment terms, and answer any questions. This consultation ensures that each client understands the terms and chooses a financing arrangement that best fits their cash flow and growth plans. From there, the underwriting process begins. Applicants can upload necessary documents securely through ROK Financials platform, allowing the lender to verify information without time-consuming back-and-forth requests. This step is often completed quickly, enabling many clients to receive funding in just a few business days. The final step is the purchase of the equipment, which can take place immediately once funds are disbursed. Whether acquiring a single piece of critical machinery or outfitting an entire operation with new assets, ROK Financial ensures that the process is smooth and predictable from start to finish. Business owners who are ready to take the first step can start their application today and see how quickly they can secure the equipment needed to strengthen and grow their operations. The Economic Impact of Fast, Flexible Equipment Financing For many businesses, access to fast and flexible equipment financing is more than just a convenient funding optionit is a critical driver of economic growth. When companies can quickly secure the tools and machinery they need, they are able to take on larger projects, serve more customers, and generate more revenue. This not only strengthens the business itself but also has a ripple effect throughout the local and national economy. In manufacturing, for example, updated equipment can increase production efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. These gains lead to higher output, which can support larger contracts, new client acquisitions, and more competitive pricing in the market. The resulting growth often translates into new jobs, both directly within the company and indirectly through suppliers and service providers. In the construction industry, the ability to acquire heavy machinery without delay can determine whether a contractor wins or loses a bid. Having the right equipment in place allows projects to be completed faster, with fewer delays and lower operational costs. This efficiency benefits not only the contractor but also the broader community by accelerating infrastructure development. Small businesses also see measurable impact. From restaurants upgrading kitchen equipment to healthcare providers installing advanced diagnostic tools, these investments improve service quality, attract new customers, and strengthen long-term stability. In many cases, the increased revenue generated by these improvements far outweighs the cost of financing. By offering terms that can be aligned with each businesss cash flow cycle, ROK Financial makes it possible for companies to invest in growth without overextending themselves. This balance between opportunity and financial stability is key to sustained economic progress. Business owners who want to experience these benefits firsthand can learn more about ROK Financials programs and begin the process of securing funding today. Final Thoughts and Call to Action In an economy where timing, efficiency, and adaptability can determine long-term success, equipment financing has become a vital tool for businesses of every size and industry. The ability to secure funding quickly, without sacrificing transparency or flexibility, allows companies to act decisively when opportunities arise. ROK Financial has positioned itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking these advantages. By combining a nationwide network of lenders, advanced AI-driven matching, and a commitment to personalized service, the company delivers solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients. From startup ventures to established enterprises, ROK Financials approach ensures that equipment financing is not just a means to acquire assets, but a strategic pathway to growth. The results speak for themselves: faster funding timelines, tailored repayment structures, and access to a broad range of financing amountsfrom $10,000 to $5 million. This flexibility enables business owners to upgrade, expand, and compete more effectively, without jeopardizing their operational stability. For decision-makers ready to invest in the future of their business, theres no reason to delay. The application process is fast, secure, and designed to deliver results in days, not weeks. Business owners can get started with a simple pre-approval today and take the first step toward securing the equipment they need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. 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 in this release is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Financing terms, conditions, and availability may vary based on factors such as creditworthiness, equipment type, and lender requirements. Prospective borrowers should consult directly with ROK Financial or their financial advisor to understand the specific terms and obligations associated with any financing arrangement. NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until September 26, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Sable Offshore Corp. (NYSE: SOC), if they purchased the Companys securities (1) between May 19, 2025 and June 3, 2025, both dates inclusive (the Class Period); and/or (2) pursuant and/or traceable to Sables May 21, 2025 secondary public offering (the SPO). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Get Help Sable Offshore investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-soc-1/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit Sable Offshore and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. On June 4, 2025, the Company disclosed that a Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge granted ex parte requests from plaintiffs in Center for Biological Diversity, et al. v. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, et al. (25CV02244) and Environmental Defense Center, et al. v. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, et al. (25CV02247) for temporary restraining orders prohibiting Sable Offshore Corp. from restarting transportation of oil through the Las Flores Pipeline System pending the hearing on an order to show cause regarding a preliminary injunction scheduled for July 18, 2025. Sable is exploring all possible avenues available to address these preliminary rulings. On this news, the price of Sables shares fell by $0.94 per share, or 3.91%, to close at $23.10 on June 4, 2025. The case is Johnson v. Sable Offshore Corp., et al., No. 25-cv-6869. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com. NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ClaimsFiler, a FREE shareholder information service, reminds investors that they have until October 10, 2025 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against SelectQuote, Inc. (SelectQuote or the Company) (NYSE: SLQT), if they purchased the Companys securities between September 9, 2020 and May 1, 2025, inclusive (the Class Period). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Get Help SelectQuote investors should visit us at https://claimsfiler.com/cases/nyse-slqt-1/ or call toll-free (844) 367-9658. Lawyers at Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC are available to discuss your legal options. About the Lawsuit SelectQuote and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws. On May 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a False Claims Act complaint against the Company, alleging that, [f]rom 2016 through at least 2021 it had received tens of millions of dollars in illegal kickbacks from health insurance companies in exchange for steering Medicare beneficiaries to enroll in the insurers plans, and that, in exchange for kickbacks, the Company engaged in a conspiracy with major insurers to illegally discriminate against beneficiaries deemed to be less profitable, including those with disabilities. The DOJ further alleged that the Company made materially false claims by stating it offers unbiased coverage comparisons when in fact it repeatedly directed Medicare beneficiaries to the plans offered by insurers that paid them the most money, regardless of the quality or suitability of the insurers plans. On this news, the price of SelectQuotes shares fell $0.61, or 19.2%, to close at $2.56 per share on May 1, 2025, on unusually heavy trading volume. The case is Pahlkotter v. SelectQuote, Inc., et al., No. 25-cv-06620. About ClaimsFiler ClaimsFiler has a single mission: to serve as the information source to help retail investors recover their share of billions of dollars from securities class action settlements. At ClaimsFiler.com, investors can: (1) register for free to gain access to information and settlement websites for various securities class action cases so they can timely submit their own claims; (2) upload their portfolio transactional data to be notified about relevant securities cases in which they may have a financial interest; and (3) submit inquiries to the Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC law firm for free case evaluations. To learn more about ClaimsFiler, visit www.claimsfiler.com. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd (Falcon) Native Title holder approval obtained to sell gas under Beneficial Use of Gas legislation 14 August 2025 Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. (TSXV: FO, AIM: FOG) is pleased to announce that an historic agreement has been reached between Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limiteds (Falcon Australia) joint venture partners Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited (collectively the Beetaloo JV partners) parent company, Tamboran Resources Corporation, with Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council for the sale of appraisal gas from their Exploration Permits (EP) in the Beetaloo sub-basin (Agreement). Points to note: The Agreement provides Native Title Holders consent to the Beetaloo JV partners to the sale of appraisal gas from EP98 and EP117 of up to 60 TJ per day from the proposed Shenandoah South Pilot Project over a three-year period, subject to the Agreements terms. The Beetaloo JV partners will now focus on securing necessary approvals to support longer-term production. The Beetaloo JV partners have contracted an initial 40 million cubic feet per day ( MMcf/d ) to supply the Northern Territory Government until mid-2041, which is expected to provide energy security for the Northern Territory. ) to supply the Northern Territory Government until mid-2041, which is expected to provide energy security for the Northern Territory. Commencement of gas sales to the Northern Territory Government via the Sturt Plateau Compression Facility is expected in mid-2026, subject to weather conditions and final stakeholder approvals. The Beetaloo JV partners maintain strong working relationships with the Native Title Holders across EP98 and EP117. They plan to continue delivering financial benefits, training, employment and contracting opportunities to the Native Title Holders and the local community. The Agreement ensures that the development of the Beetaloo sub-basin is a genuine partnership that represents significant and long-term economic and social benefits to all parties. The Agreement is subject to approval by the Northern Territory Minister for Mining and Energy. Philip OQuigley, CEO of Falcon commented: This is a significant development for our operator Tamboran B2, being the first operator in the Beetaloo Basin to secure Native Title Holder approval to sell gas under the legislated appraisal framework. We would like to join Tamboran Resources Corporation in thanking the Native Title Holders and the Northern Land Council for their support in reaching a positive outcome with this significant agreement and for their vision and support. Ends. CONTACT DETAILS: Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. +353 1 676 8702 Philip OQuigley, CEO +353 87 814 7042 Anne Flynn, CFO +353 1 676 9162 Cavendish Capital Markets Limited (NOMAD & Broker) Neil McDonald / Adam Rae +44 131 220 9771 About Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is an international oil & gas company engaged in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with the current portfolio focused in Australia. Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd is incorporated in British Columbia, Canada and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland. Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited is a c. 98% subsidiary of Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. For further information on Falcon Oil & Gas Ltd. Please visit www.falconoilandgas.com About Beetaloo JV Partners (EP 76, 98 and 117) Company Interest Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 22.5% Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited (Tamboran B2) 77.5% Total 100.0% Shenandoah South Pilot Project -2 Drilling Space Units 46,080 acres1 Company Interest Falcon Oil & Gas Australia Limited (Falcon Australia) 5.0% Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited 95.0% Total 100.0% 1Subject to the completion of SS-4H wells on the Shenandoah South pad 2. About Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited Tamboran (B1) Pty Limited (Tamboran B1) is the 100% holder of Tamboran (B2) Pty Limited, with Tamboran B1 being a 50:50 joint venture between Tamboran Resources Corporation and Daly Waters Energy, LP. Tamboran Resources Corporation is a natural gas company listed on the NYSE (TBN) and ASX (TBN). Tamboran is focused on playing a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future, by developing the significant low CO 2 gas resource within the Beetaloo Sub-basin through cutting-edge drilling and completion design technology as well as managements experience in successfully commercialising unconventional shale in North America. Bryan Sheffield of Daly Waters Energy, LP is a highly successful investor and has made significant returns in the US unconventional energy sector in the past. He was Founder of Parsley Energy Inc. (PE), an independent unconventional oil and gas producer in the Permian Basin, Texas and previously served as its Chairman and CEO. PE was acquired for over US$7 billion by Pioneer Natural Resources Company. Advisory regarding forward-looking statements Certain information in this press release may constitute forward-looking information. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as may, will, should, expect, intend, plan, anticipate, believe, estimate, projects, dependent, consider potential, scheduled, forecast, anticipated, outlook, budget, hope, suggest, support planned, approximately, potential or the negative of those terms or similar words suggesting future outcomes. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, the commencement of gas sales to the Northern Territory Government via the Sturt Plateau Compression Facility in mid-2026 subject to weather conditions and final stakeholder approvals; the sale of appraisal gas of up to 60 TJ per day from the Shenandoah South Pilot project over a three year period; an initial 40 MMCf/d to be supplied to the Northern Territory Government until mid-2041 providing energy security for the Northern Territory; and the Shenandoah Pilot program continuing to progress. This information is based on current expectations that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. The risks, assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results include risks associated with fluctuations in market prices for shale gas; risks related to the exploration, development and production of shale gas reserves; general economic, market and business conditions; substantial capital requirements; uncertainties inherent in estimating quantities of reserves and resources; extent of, and cost of compliance with, government laws and regulations and the effect of changes in such laws and regulations; the need to obtain regulatory approvals before development commences; environmental risks and hazards and the cost of compliance with environmental regulations; aboriginal claims; inherent risks and hazards with operations such as mechanical or pipe failure, cratering and other dangerous conditions; potential cost overruns, drilling wells is speculative, often involving significant costs that may be more than estimated and may not result in any discoveries; variations in foreign exchange rates; competition for capital, equipment, new leases, pipeline capacity and skilled personnel; the failure of the holder of licenses, leases and permits to meet requirements of such; changes in royalty regimes; failure to accurately estimate abandonment and reclamation costs; inaccurate estimates and assumptions by management and/or their joint venture partners; effectiveness of internal controls; the potential lack of available drilling equipment; failure to obtain or keep key personnel; title deficiencies; geo-political risks; and risk of litigation. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive and that these factors and risks are difficult to predict. Actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. Falcon assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements unless and until required by securities laws applicable to Falcon. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in Falcons filings with the Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.com, including under "Risk Factors" in the Annual Information Form. Any references in this news release to initial production rates are useful in confirming the presence of hydrocarbons; however, such rates are not determinative of the rates at which such wells will continue production and decline thereafter and are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance or ultimate recovery. While encouraging, readers are cautioned not to place reliance on such rates in calculating the aggregate production for Falcon. Such rates are based on field estimates and may be based on limited data available at this time. 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. PANAMA CITY, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, is celebrating its 12th anniversary with a landmark initiative, the Crypto Gem Hunt: Special Edition. As the crypto market enters a new value discovery cycle in 2025driven by favorable policies, technological advancements, and new all-time highs for BitcoinHTX is empowering users to seize the next wave of growth. Guided by the principles of value selection, trend forecasting, and potential discovery, this report highlights 12 high-quality tokens with strong long-term potential and significant market appeal. 12 Cryptos in a Nutshell: Covering Diverse Sectors and Balancing Hot Trends with Long-Term Value 1. Leading Sectors | Meme and AI: The Perfect Blend of Technology and Community Sentiment TRUMP (SOL MEME) Launch Date: January 18, 2025 | Gain: 850% Drawing on the political influence of President Donald Trump, $TRUMP fuses meme culture with current events to spark strong community consensus and viral growth. FARTCOIN (SOL MEME) Launch Date: October 23, 2024 | Gain: 8844% Fartcoin draws inspiration from Truth Terminal and serves as a powerful catalyst for market sentiment and showcasing the explosive growth potential of the Meme economy. ACTSOL (AI MEME) Launch Date: April 2, 2024 | Gain: 12,079.5% The project showcases a compelling narrative between technological innovation and market sentiment. It also interacts with artificial intelligence in an egalitarian network manner. MOODENG (SOL MEME) Launch Date: September 23, 2024 | Gain: 961.5% Inspired by Moo Deng, a pygmy hippo from Thailand beloved worldwide for its charming looks and playful antics, MOODENG rapidly captured the hearts of Meme communities around the globe. 2. NFT & RWA Sectors | Leading Projects Show Signs of Recovery PENGU (Pudgy Penguins) (NFT/Digital IP) Launch Date: December 23, 2024 | Gain: 520% The Pudgy Penguins NFT collection features 8,888 unique penguin avatars. Its huge popularity stems from a robust digital IP and an avatar-driven community economic model. ONDO (RWA) Launch Date: January 18, 2024 | Gain: 262.1% As a benchmark RWA project, ONDO bridges real-world assets with blockchain technology, unlocking new opportunities at the intersection of traditional finance and Web3. 3. Steady-Growth Sectors | Stablecoins and Governance Tokens: Explorers Navigating Asset Backing and Favorable Policy Trends USD1 (Stablecoin/Regulated Payment) Launch Date: May 6, 2025 | Price: Stable USD1 is a fully backed, compliant stablecoin issued by the Trump family backed World Liberty Financial (WLFI) . It is well-positioned in the growing trend of stablecoin regulation. HTX (Governance Token) Launch Date: January 20, 2024 The HTX token, pivotal to HTX DAO, plays a crucial role as a dedicated supporter of the visionaries driving decentralized economy advancements. HTX token holders actively participate in decentralized governance through voting, emphasizing inclusivity. 4. Public Chain & Derivative Asset Sectors | Key Infrastructure of Major Public Chains ETH (ETH ECO) Launch Date: April 9, 2018 As the world's largest smart contract platform, Ethereum serves as the core infrastructure for multiple sectors, including DeFi, NFTs, AI, and RWAs. TRX (TRON) Launch Date: January 29, 2018 As the core asset of the TRON ecosystem, TRX underpins a comprehensive suite of Tron Family products, forming a powerful, functional, and highly active ecosystem. SOL (SOLANA) Launch Date: December 1, 2020 Solana serves as the backbone for numerous viral Meme projects. Its vibrant ecosystem and active developer community have made it the technical engine driving the meme boom. SYRUP (STAKING) Launch Date: May 8, 2025 By combining the strengths of traditional institutional lending with DeFi, Maple has achieved steady, accelerated growth. From Hot Trends to True Value: Guiding Principle for the Crypto Gem Hunt Program With new trends constantly emerging in the crypto market, projects that endure through both bull and bear cycles need more than just good ideas. They require strong ecosystem support, engaged community backing, and a clear path to long-term value. HTX's Crypto Gem Hunt Program was initiated to uncover such projects. By carefully analyzing popular narratives and key sectors, it has identified high-quality assets that combine market buzz with lasting potential. About HTX Founded in 2013, HTX (formerly Huobi) has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses. As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of "Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance," HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide. To learn more about HTX, please visit https://www.htx.com/ or HTX Square , and follow HTX on X , Telegram , and Discord . For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com . Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sectorincluding cryptocurrency, NFTs, and miningcomplete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. 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Photos accompanying this announcement are available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3181c764-de66-4b23-a4e7-c2de0c78cef4 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c6cc30ea-ca2d-4c6f-8eaf-5ebe2f318635 Aggregated investment amounts to EUR 1.2 billion DayOnes Growth Partnership Agreement with Lahti underscores its long-term commitment to Finlands digital and economic development LAHTI, Finland, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DayOne, a Singapore-based global data center developer and operator, today announces its significant investment in a state-of-the-art hyperscale data center campus in Lahti, Finland. The aggregated value of DayOnes investment in Lahti is projected to reach approximately EUR 1.2 billion, reinforcing the companys commitment to advancing Finlands digital infrastructure. The Lahti data center project will transform a former industrial site, located in the neighborhood of Kiverio, into an advanced, high-performance digital infrastructure facility. Spanning 98,901 square meters, the site is fully zoned for industrial usage. With a total potential capacity of 128 megawatts (MW) IT load, the project comprises a first building of 50MW IT load. Negotiations with potential tenants are in progress, with no agreements finalized to date. Construction will commence with site demolition in Q3 2025, and operations are scheduled to be ready for service in 2027. The data center campus has been designed with minimal disruption to neighboring areas and aligns with long-term sustainable land-use goals. Facilities are designed aiming for LEED Gold certification or higher. DayOne is collaborating with local engineering firms to fully leverage Finlands naturally cool climate for free cooling, and further enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in its operations. DayOne has entered into a power connection agreement with Lahti Energy to strengthen local energy grid resilience. Having set up partnerships with both Lahti Energy and the city of Lahti, and aligned with Lahtis sustainability and circular economy goals, DayOne has been exploring waste heat reusing and integrating its data center into the local district heating system. Reinforcing the project's commitment to resource conservation, the facility will utilize air cool chiller technology and eliminate the need for freshwater cooling. DayOnes investment will significantly bolster Lahtis digital economy, while contributing to job creation in the city and across Finland. The Lahti project is expected to support a progressive ramp-up of 100 direct skilled positions and employ 1,000 construction workers onsite at its construction peak. "Finland is an ideal strategic choice for our European growth," said Jamie Khoo, CEO of DayOne Data Centers. "With its reliable energy infrastructure, renewable energy leadership, highly skilled workforce, and naturally favorable climate that significantly reduces energy consumption and operational costs, Finland offers unique advantages that align perfectly with our commitment to sustainable digital infrastructure. Recognised as European Green Capital 2021, Lahti is advancing towards carbon neutrality, making it a natural fit with DayOnes sustainability goals. We are proud to invest EUR 1.2 billion on Lahti project into the Finnish economy and collaborate closely with Lahti to drive local innovation and sustainability." The mayor of Lahti, Mr. Niko Kyynarainen, welcomes the substantial investment. Lahti is part of the growth and development of the international data economy. "The data center to be built in Lahti is designed to handle large-scale data processing, enabling the creation of a strong digital ecosystem. In addition to the location, cool climate, clean energy, and stable conditions, Lahti's investment environment once again proved to be a winning operational model," Niko Kyynarainen says with delight. Growth Partnership Agreement to Drive Local Collaboration DayOne is to enter into a Growth Partnership Agreement with the City of Lahti, Lahti Region Development LADEC, Lahti Energy, and local educational institutions, including a commitment of EUR 2.5 million to LUT Universities as outlined in the agreement. The agreement sets a clear framework for long-term regional cooperation aimed at advancing Lahtis carbon neutrality goals, strengthening the local business and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) education ecosystems, and fostering talent development. Key areas of collaboration include integrating local companies into the data centers development and operations, innovating waste heat utilization solutions, and aligning educational pathways with industry needs through joint R&D, student internships, and faculty engagement. The partnership also connects DayOnes global academic collaborations, such as with the Sustainable Tropical Data Centre Testbed hosted at the National University of Singapore, to Finnish institutions like LUT Universities to drive innovation in both tropical and cold-climate data center operations. "The city offers robust government support and a thriving clean-tech ecosystemproviding an ideal environment for advanced, low-carbon digital infrastructure. As we build our presence in Lahti, we are eager to explore meaningful ways to work with the community, especially those who share our vision for digital advancement and environmental responsibility," added Jamie Khoo from DayOne. DayOne maintains transparency with Finnish authorities and has informed the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and the Ministry of Defence of Finland of the Lahti data center project. In Finland, DayOne jointly invested with Finnish company Hyperco in the Kouvola data center. DayOnes global presence spans Asia Pacific and Europe, with active operations in tier-one and emerging data center markets including Singapore, Johor (Malaysia), Batam (Indonesia), Greater Bangkok, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Finland. About DayOne DayOne is a Singapore-based global data center pioneer that develops and operates next-gen digital infrastructure for industry leaders who demand reliable, cost-effective, and quickly scalable solutions. Our cutting-edge facilities empower hyperscalers and large enterprises to achieve rapid deployment and enhance connectivity, driving transformative engagement and innovation as we shape the future of industries. DayOne's data centers are located across tier-one and emerging markets, including Singapore, Johor (Malaysia), Batam (Indonesia), Greater Bangkok, Hong Kong SAR, Tokyo, and Finland. DayOne was established in 2022 in Singapore and became an independent group on January 1, 2025, following its deconsolidation from former parent company. DayOne is majority-owned by global investors, such as SoftBank Vision Fund, Citadel CEO Kenneth Griffin, Coatue Management, and so on. Marketing & Media Marketing@dayonedc.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e73e115b-ee8a-425c-9182-2898f25545aa Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia 5G Infrastructure Market Outlook and Forecast 2025-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Saudi Arabia 5G Infrastructure Market is anticipated to grow to US$ 3.24 billion by 2033 from US$ 145.33 million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 41.22% during 2025-2033 The growth in the market comes with the support of government-driven digital transformation plans, rising investment in smart cities, and growing demand for ultra-high-speed, low-latency connectivity across industries like healthcare, automotive, and telecommunications across the Kingdom. In Saudi Arabia, the appeal of 5G infrastructure is quickly increasing with Vision 2030 promoting economic diversification and digital transformation. Leading telecom operators are pushing to deploy 5G networks aggressively, and Riyadh and Jeddah are becoming hubs for next-generation connectivity in the region. Consumers have the benefit of quicker mobile internet and enhanced streaming, while companies enjoy greater IoT and automation capabilities. Government investments and public-private collaborations are propelling deployment, transforming Saudi Arabia into one of the most prominent adopters of 5G technology in the Middle East. As digital services become increasingly dominant, demand for strong 5G infrastructure keeps growing, fueling national growth and innovation plans. Growth Drivers in the Saudi Arabia 5G Infrastructure Market Government Support and Vision 2030 Initiatives Saudi Vision 2030 places a spotlight on digital transformation as a pillar of economic diversification. With Government support, huge investments have been made in 5G technology to transform infrastructure and accelerate innovation. Smart city programs, digital healthcare, and e-governance initiatives require robust 5G networks. Reforms in regulation, public-private models, and active spectrum assignment further promote 5G adoption, making government programs a key market driver. Under this initiative, the nation has invested $15 billion to enhance its 5G network infrastructure. These investments are being led by the Communications and Information Technology Commission (CITC) to achieve Vision 2030 objectives. Smart City Projects and Rapid Urbanization Smart city development, such as NEOM and The Line, largely depends on cutting-edge connectivity. These urban areas of the future need real-time data processing, automation, and AI integration - all powered by 5G infrastructure. Growing tech-savviness of the urban population and the desire for seamless digital experiences further fuel 5G deployment. Therefore, the growth of smart cities is directly fueling big-ticket infrastructure investment and propelling countrywide adoption of 5G networks. Over 75% of NEOMs infrastructure will feature 5G integration to enable real-time data handling and management of smart grids, transportation systems, and urban services. This development in infrastructure is imperative to the mass adoption of 5G technology in urban development and smart city initiatives. Increasing Demand for Fast Data and IoT With a digitally empowered population and a growing number of mobile users, Saudi Arabia is confronted with exploding demand for fast, secure internet. 5G supports high-bandwidth, low-latency services that are well-suited for IoT, AR/VR, autonomous vehicles, and industrial applications in real-time. Businesses in logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing are embracing IoT solutions fueled by 5G, driving network operators and vendors to aggressively grow infrastructure throughout the kingdom. ARAMCO in 2024 committed to rolling out 5G networks within its principal facilities, making automation possible while cutting downtime. The overall worth of 5G-powered automation projects across the industrial sector will be more than $1.5 billion by the year 2024, representing a principal growth area for 5G providers. Challenges in the Saudi Arabia 5G Infrastructure Market High Deployment Costs and Capital Requirements Establishing 5G infrastructure requires high investment in hardware, fiber, and small cells. Saudi Arabia's geographical expansion, particularly the vast deserts and rural regions, renders nationwide implementation costly. Smaller players are likely to lack the required capital, hindering extensive network development. Despite government incentives, the high-cost nature of infrastructure rollout will continue to be a major impediment to swift and universal adoption. Regulatory and Technological Complexity Operational management of the spectrum, interoperability, and adherence to cybersecurity standards remain ongoing issues. Since 5G requires coordination among several partners - government, telecoms, and private industry - delay in regulation or ambiguous policy can frustrate development. In addition, the migration process from 4G to sole 5G networks depends on technological advancement, trained manpower, and timely equipment development, which can create logistical and regulatory challenges. Key Players Analysis (Overviews, Key Persons, Recent Developments, SWOT Analysis, Revenue Analysis) Cisco Systems Inc. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP Mavenir Systems Inc. NEC Corporation Nokia Corporation Oracle Corporation Qualcomm Technologies Inc. Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson ZTE Corporation Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $145.33 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $3240 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 41.2% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia 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. Saudi Arabia 5G Infrastructure Market 5.1 Historical Market Trends 5.2 Market Forecast 6. Market Share Analysis 6.1 By Component 6.2 By Communication Infrastructure 6.3 By Spectrum 6.4 By Network Architecture 6.5 By Vertical 6.6 By Region 7. Component 7.1 Hardware 7.2 Services 8. Communication Infrastructure 8.1 5G Radio Access Networks 8.2 Transport Networks 8.3 5G Core Network 9. Spectrum 9.1 Sub-6-GHz 9.2 mmWave 10. Network Architecture 10.1 Non-Standalone 10.2 Standalone 11. Vertical 11.1 Enterprise/Corporate 11.2 Residential 11.3 Industrial 11.4 Transportation & Logistics 11.5 Smart City 11.6 Energy & Utility 11.7 Public Safety and Defense 11.8 Healthcare Facilities 11.9 Retail 11.10 Others 12. Region 12.1 Northern and Central Region 12.2 Western Region 12.3 Eastern Region 12.4 Southern Region 13. Value Chain Analysis 14. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 14.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers 14.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 14.3 Degree of Competition 14.4 Threat of New Entrants 14.5 Threat of Substitutes 15. SWOT Analysis 15.1 Strength 15.2 Weakness 15.3 Opportunity 15.4 Threats 16. Pricing Benchmark Analysis 16.1 Cisco Systems Inc. 16.2 Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP 16.3 Mavenir Systems Inc. 16.4 NEC Corporation 16.5 Nokia Corporation 16.6 Oracle Corporation 16.7 Qualcomm Technologies Inc. 16.8 Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson 16.9 ZTE Corporation 16.10 Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd 17. Key Players Analysis Cisco Systems Inc. Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP Mavenir Systems Inc. NEC Corporation Nokia Corporation Oracle Corporation Qualcomm Technologies Inc. Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson ZTE Corporation Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/ww9cba 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. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Generic Drugs Market Outlook and Forecast 2025-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Saudi Arabia Generic Drugs Market is anticipated to grow to US$ 8.11 billion by 2033 from US$ 4.05 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.02% during 2025 to 2033. This growth is attributed to increased healthcare needs, government efforts to curb pharmaceutical expenditure, and mounting awareness for cost-effective alternatives. The market is also boosted by growing local manufacturing and government support for generics. In Saudi Arabia, the demand for generic medications is increasing at a very high pace. It is fueled by attempts by the government to lower reliance on imported branded medicines and in trying to slash healthcare spending. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has made the process of generic approvals easier, prompting local and foreign manufacturers to increase their generic offerings. Additionally, public health awareness campaigns and a focus on preventive care have supported the acceptance of generic medicines among consumers and healthcare professionals. With a growing population and rising incidence of chronic diseases, the demand for cost-effective generic drugs is expected to expand further across the Kingdom. Growth Drivers in the Saudi Arabia Generic Drugs Market Government Support and Cost Containment Initiatives The Saudi government has focused on making healthcare more affordable through greater generic drug promotion to lower the country's healthcare expenditure. More rapid regulatory approval and increased local manufacturing capacity have been promoted through initiatives spearheaded by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Cost-effective treatment is now more favored in national health policy, with generics more extensively used in public hospitals and among insurance companies. These initiatives have considerably fueled the country's generic drug market and brought in foreign pharmaceutical investment into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority ("SFDA") released a draft initiative, the "Procedure to deal with patents when registering generic products in SFDA". The Initiative has been made available on the Saudi Public Consultation Platform website for consultancy and the SFDA has invited the public and pharmaceutical firms in June 2022. Increasing Incidence of Chronic Diseases With increasing numbers of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory diseases, Saudi Arabia is in need of long-term affordable medication to a greater degree. Generic drugs are a viable solution to costly branded drugs for the management of chronic diseases. With the population growing older and living lifestyles that are inactive, the demand for efficient, cost-effective medication is encouraging patients and doctors to use generics, compelling steady growth in demand in the industry. April 2025, Among Middle Eastern countries, Saudi Arabia has one of the highest rates of chronic diseases (CDs) at 32.15%. This creates huge healthcare challenges to the population. The most common causes of morbidity are diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and obesity. The rise in the incidence of these chronic diseases adversely impacts the quality of life of patients and increases total healthcare expenditure. Increase in Local Production Capability Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in developing pharmaceutical production facilities under Vision 2030 to increase local production and minimize import reliance. With new plants set up with partnerships and technology transfers, generic drug production is growing very fast. This local presence allows for quicker availability, reduced prices, and more control over quality. The domestic boom in production is making the Kingdom a competitive force in the regional generic pharma market. In January 2024, Saudi Arabia announced a national biotech plan to become a world-class biotech hub in 16 years. The program is part of a bigger effort known as Vision 2030, which aims to position the country as a biotech leader in the Middle East and North Africa by 2030. Challenges in the Saudi Arabia Generic Drugs Market Public Perception and Brand Loyalty Even with cost advantages, most consumers in Saudi Arabia continue to view branded medications as having superior efficacy and reliability. Psychological and cultural factors explain reluctance to embrace generics. Physicians can also persist in prescribing branded medication because of existing relations with international pharmaceutical companies. Brand loyalty and wariness of generics can restrict market penetration and decelerate total growth of the generic drug sector. Regulatory and Quality Control Complexity Although SFDA has facilitated accelerated approval procedures, regulatory requirements and documentation for generics are still strict. Bioequivalence, international GMP compliance, and inspection passage are demanding in terms of investment and expertise. Such compliance is challenging for smaller companies. In contrast, having uniform quality in production and preventing counterfeit threats contributes to operational pressure, particularly for new market players. Saudi Arabia Simple Generic Drugs Market Simple generics are drugs with uncomplicated formulations and delivery systems that closely resemble the original branded version. Simple generics prevail in Saudi Arabia owing to the simplicity of manufacture and comparatively fewer regulatory complications. They are employed extensively for general ailments like pain relief, infections, and hypertension. Their low cost and availability in the public hospital network have promoted their use. Government controls on prices also guarantee availability, complementing overall healthcare cost containment objectives. The low-end generic drug segment is the point of entry for companies intending to acquire market footprint with low R&D spends. Saudi Arabia Specialty Generic Drugs Market Specialty generics are high-end, complex drugs employed in particular, high-priced treatments like oncology, autoimmune diseases, and orphan diseases. In Saudi Arabia, this segment is expanding as chronic diseases increase and the government seeks to decrease dependence on costly imported biologics. Creating specialty generics needs sophisticated manufacturing capabilities and regulatory know-how. Domestic companies, usually with the aid of global players, are investing in the high-margin segment. While more expensive to develop, specialty generics present considerable savings over originator biologics, gaining the attention of insurance payers and government healthcare programs. Saudi Arabia Oral Generic Drugs Market Oral dosage forms including tablets, capsules, and syrups are the most convenient and widely used method of drug delivery. Saudi Arabian oral generic drug market is strong because of its extensive use in diverse therapeutic categories, simplicity of administration, and patient compliance. Manufacturing infrastructure for oral formulation is well developed, and hence it is an economical option for producers as well as the consumer. With greater outpatient visits and prescriptions, oral generics continue to gain significant market share, particularly in primary care and the management of chronic diseases. Saudi Arabia Respiratory Generic Drugs Market Respiratory illnesses like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common in Saudi Arabia, in part because of environmental conditions like dust and cigarette smoking. Demand for cost-effective inhalers and respiratory medications has driven growth in the respiratory generics market. Firms are targeting metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs), and nebulized generics. There are regulatory issues and delivery device complexities, but increasing public health consciousness and government reimbursement policies are assisting the widening access to these vital therapies. Saudi Arabia Oncology Generic Drugs Market Costs of cancer therapy continue to be a heavy burden on patients as well as the healthcare system. The Saudi Arabian oncology generic drug market is growing as biosimilars and intricate generics come on the market at a lower cost. Government funding, insurance programs, and increased early diagnosis activities support demand. Though innovation in the area is still paramount, generics present a useful follow-up and maintenance option. Hospitals increasingly incorporate oncology generics to offer equal treatment regardless of income level, propelling market acceptance. Saudi Arabia Online Generic Drugs Market The e-transformation in Saudi Arabia's healthcare industry has accelerated the growth of the online generic drug market. Digital platforms and e-pharmacies are facilitating easier price comparisons and prescription-based generics ordering for consumers. COVID-19 helped expedite this change, with the use of contactless and remote solutions gaining more prominence. With a young digitally educated population and increasing mobile internet penetration, the online generic drug segment is receiving robust traction, particularly in urban regions such as Riyadh and Jeddah. Key Players Analysis (Overviews, Key Persons, Recent Developments, SWOT Analysis, Revenue Analysis) Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Viatris Inc. Sandoz Group AG Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Cipla Ltd. Aurobindo Pharma Ltd. Lupin Ltd. Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC STADA Arzneimittel AG Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 200 Forecast Period 2024 - 2033 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $4.05 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2033 $8.11 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.0% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction 2. Research & Methodology 2.1 Data Source 2.2 Research Approach 2.3 Forecast Projection Methodology 3. Executive Summary 4. Market Dynamics 4.1 Growth Drivers 4.2 Challenges 5. Saudi Arabia Generic Drugs Market 5.1 Historical Market Trends 5.2 Market Forecast 6. Market Share Analysis 6.1 By Type 6.2 By Route of Administration 6.3 By Therapeutic Area 6.4 By Distribution Channel 6.5 By Region 7. Type 7.1 Simple Generics 7.2 Specialty Generics 7.3 Biosimilars 8. Route of Administration 8.1 Oral 8.2 Injections 9. Therapeutic Area 9.1 Infectious Diseases 9.2 Respiratory 9.3 Musculoskeletal Diseases 9.4 Oncology 9.5 Central Nervous System (CNS) 9.6 Cardiovascular 9.7 Others 10. Distribution Channel 10.1 Online Pharmacies 10.2 Retail Pharmacies 10.3 Hospital Pharmacies 11. Region 11.1 Northern and Central Region 11.2 Western Region 11.3 Eastern Region 11.4 Southern Region 12. Value Chain Analysis 13. Regulatory Framework of Generic Drugs in Saudi Arabia 14. Porter's Five Forces Analysis 14.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers 14.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 14.3 Degree of Competition 14.4 Threat of New Entrants 14.5 Threat of Substitutes 15. SWOT Analysis 15.1 Strength 15.2 Weakness 15.3 Opportunity 15.4 Threats 16. Pricing Benchmark Analysis 16.1 Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. 16.2 Viatris Inc. 16.3 Sandoz Group AG 16.4 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. 16.5 Cipla Ltd. 16.6 Aurobindo Pharma Ltd. 16.7 Lupin Ltd. 16.8 Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC 16.9 STADA Arzneimittel AG 16.10 Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd. 17. Key Players Analysis For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/yhlq7h 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 GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Toobit, the award-winning global cryptocurrency exchange, is celebrating the highly successful launch of Punchimals ($PUNCHI), a new meme-powered token. The launch was marked by an overwhelmingly popular presale event and is being followed by an ongoing $10,000 USDT Trading Carnival to reward the community. The launch began with Toobit's exclusive SpeedZone Presale for $PUNCHI, which sold out in a record 10 minutes, signaling massive demand and community excitement. This success preceded the official listing on Toobit Spot, with trading for the PUNCHI/USDT pair commencing on August 8, 2025. The Punchimals ($PUNCHI) launch is supported by a $10,000 USDT Trading Carnival, running until August 18, 2025, 8:00 AM (UTC). The event features two main components designed to reward both new and existing users: PUNCHI mystery boxes: Users can complete daily trading tasks for chances to open mystery boxes containing rewards like $PUNCHI airdrops, USDT Trial Funds, and exclusive Toobit merchandise. Extra rewards for new users: A dedicated $2,000 prize pool is available for new users who register during the event and meet a minimum trading volume requirement. "The incredible response to the Punchimals launch, with a sold-out presale in record time, is a clear indicator of the project's strong community and vibrant energy," said Mike Williams, Chief Communication Officer at Toobit. "We're proud to offer our users early access to promising projects through our SpeedZone feature. The momentum has continued into the ongoing $10,000 Trading Carnival, and we're seeing fantastic engagement from our user base as they trade and explore this new token." $PUNCHI is the native token of the Punchimals universe, a world of "weird, wacky, and wonderfully violent creatures." The project distinguishes itself with its meme-centric, community-driven philosophy, operating on the BNB Smart Chain (BEP20). About Toobit Toobit is where the future of crypto trading unfoldsan award-winning cryptocurrency derivatives exchange built for those who thrive exploring new frontiers. With deep liquidity and cutting-edge technology, Toobit empowers traders worldwide to navigate the digital asset markets with confidence. We offer a fair, secure, seamless, and transparent trading experience, ensuring every trade is an opportunity to discover whats next. For more information about Toobit, visit: Website | X | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Instagram Contact: Davin C. Email: market@toobit.com Website: www.toobit.com Disclaimer: This content is provided by Toobit. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. 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We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ed936fa1-aecb-485d-8e95-1e5f8252ec94 Delray Beach, FL, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Lubricants Market was valued at USD 178.14 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 204.10 billion by 2030, growing at 2.8% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. The demand for lubricants in end-use industries such as transportation and industrial is increasing due to government regulations and fuel economy norms, mounting demand from marine applications, and extension of refinery volumes for group II and III base oil. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=182046896 Browse in-depth TOC on Lubricants Market 530 - Market Data Tables 62 Figures 389 - Pages List of Key Players in Lubricants Market: Shell plc (UK) Exxon Mobil Corporation (US) BP p.l.c. (UK) Chevron Corporation (US) PetroChina Company Limited (China) TotalEnergies SE (France) ENEOS Holdings, Inc. (Japan) China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (China) Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. (Japan) Drivers, Opportunities and Challenges in Lubricants Market: Drivers: Increased supply of Group II and Group III base oils Restraint: Rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) Opportunity: Growth in demand for bio-based lubricants Challenge: Volatile raw material prices Get Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=182046896 Key Findings of the Study: Metalworking fluid product type is projected to register the highest CAGR, in terms of value, of the global lubricants market during the forecast period. Synthetic lubricants are estimated to be the second-largest base oil type of lubricants market, in terms of value, during the forecast period. Europe is estimated to be the second-largest market for the lubricants market, in terms of value, during the forecast period. Based on base oil type, the lubricants market is segmented into mineral oil, synthetic oil, and bio-based oil. Of these, mineral oil lubricants accounted for the largest market share in terms of value in 2024. These mineral oils are compatible with most of the materials and seals used in various machinery and equipment. Another factor that influences market share is that they are usually cheaper due to the low cost of production. They are also readily available in all regions. Therefore, mineral oils accounted for the highest share in the lubricants market. Based on end-use industry, the lubricants market is further sub-segmented into transportation and industrial. This sub-segment for the industrial end-use industry is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. There will be an increase in industrial activities in construction, mining, agriculture, food industry, and other activities throughout the world because of an increasing population. Thus, the industrial end-use industry sub-segment is projected to register the highest CAGR. Apart from this, increasing demand for energy-efficient and high-performance lubricants in heavy machinery is also propelling the market. Government initiatives regarding manufacturing and infrastructure development in emerging economies would also increase the consumption of industrial lubricants. Based on region, Asia Pacific was the largest lubricants market, by value, in 2024 due to its strong economic development, growth in population, accelerating industrialization, growing disposable income, and liberal government policies. Furthermore, heavily populated nations like China and India witness elevated demand across automotive, manufacturing, building, and farm industries. The demand for lubricants henceforth remains elevated within Asia Pacific. Similarly, Asia Pacific is also expected to be the fastest-growing market, based on value, over the forecast period. Get Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=182046896 BP p.l.c. is a major oil, gas, and renewable energy company worldwide. The famous Castrol is part of BP p.l.c.'s lubricants market. It is one of the top brands in the world, offering a full range of lubricants- from engine oils to transmission fluids and industrial lubricants. The trademark boasts state-of-the-art technology and a performance/sustainability commitment supported by partnerships with leading automotive manufacturers and motorsport teams to advance innovation. BP p.l.c. pursues investments in lower-carbon lubricants and digital service platforms to position the company to help meet international energy transition goals and change consumer behaviors. Its strategic focus will be on improving product performance, lowering carbon intensity, and making inroads into emerging markets. Chevron Corporation is one of the leading names in the American multinational energy space and a key player in the global lubricants market through its brands Chevron, Texaco, and Caltex. Engine oils, transmission fluids, industrial lubricants, and a comprehensive line of lubricants are offered under these brands in the automotive, industrial, and marine sectors. Chevron Corporation started the lubricants value chain, which includes manufacturing high-quality base oils, enhancing additives, and blending and packaging finished lubricants. The company has over 20 blending plants worldwide, with regional technology centers located in Ghent, Belgium, for the development and technical support of coolant products. Browse Adjacent Markets Bulk Chemicals and Inorganics Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: BEIJING, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- KE Holdings Inc. (Beike or the Company) (NYSE: BEKE; HKEX: 2423), a leading integrated online and offline platform for housing transactions and services, today announced that it will report its unaudited financial results for the second quarter of 2025 before the U.S. market opens on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. The Companys management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:00 A.M. Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 (8:00 P.M. Beijing Time on Tuesday, August 26, 2025). For participants who wish to join the conference using dial-in numbers, please complete online registration using the link provided below at least 20 minutes prior to the scheduled call start time. Dial-in numbers, passcode and unique access PIN would be provided upon registering. Participant Online Registration: English Line: https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10048559-12bwoh.html Chinese Simultaneous Interpretation Line (listen-only mode): https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10048560-0l1rzo.html A replay of the conference call will be accessible through September 2, 2025, by dialing the following numbers: United States: +1-855-883-1031 Mainland, China: 400-1209-216 Hong Kong, China: 800-930-639 International: +61-7-3107-6325 Replay PIN (English line): 10048559 Replay PIN (Chinese simultaneous interpretation line): 10048560 A live and archived webcast of the conference call will also be available at the Companys investor relations website at https://investors.ke.com. About KE Holdings Inc. KE Holdings Inc. is a leading integrated online and offline platform for housing transactions and services. The Company is a pioneer in building infrastructure and standards to reinvent how service providers and customers efficiently navigate and complete housing transactions and services in China, ranging from existing and new home sales, home rentals, to home renovation and furnishing, and other services. The Company owns and operates Lianjia, Chinas leading real estate brokerage brand and an integral part of its Beike platform. With more than 23 years of operating experience through Lianjia since its inception in 2001, the Company believes the success and proven track record of Lianjia pave the way for it to build its infrastructure and standards and drive the rapid and sustainable growth of Beike. For more information, please visit: https://investors.ke.com. For investor and media inquiries, please contact: In China: KE Holdings Inc. Investor Relations Siting Li E-mail: ir@ke.com Piacente Financial Communications Jenny Cai Tel: +86-10-6508-0677 E-mail: ke@tpg-ir.com In the United States: Piacente Financial Communications Brandi Piacente Tel: +1-212-481-2050 E-mail: ke@tpg-ir.com MCLEAN, Va., Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) is pleased to announce the award winners for oral and written presentations chosen from 100 participants by an eminent panel of judges at the 42nd annual Research Science Institute (RSI), sponsored in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Each of the award winners received $1,000 scholarship awards from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Top 5 Written Research: Jayveer Kochhar , Dhirubhai Ambani International School, Mumbai, India , Dhirubhai Ambani International School, Mumbai, India Sum Yuet Keisha Kwok (Hong Kong), St. Pauls Girls School, London, UK (Hong Kong), St. Pauls Girls School, London, UK Susie Lu (Sammamish, Washington), Stanford Online High School, Stanford, California (Sammamish, Washington), Stanford Online High School, Stanford, California Suzuko Ohshima , North Hollywood High School, North Hollywood, California , North Hollywood High School, North Hollywood, California Celine Zhang (Scottsdale, Arizona), Phillips Exeter Academy, Exeter, New Hampshire Top 5 Oral Presentations: Scarlet Gitelson , Latin School of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois , Latin School of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois Judy Li , (Shenzhen, China), Wycombe Abbey School, High Wycombe, United Kingdom , (Shenzhen, China), Wycombe Abbey School, High Wycombe, United Kingdom Dimana Pramatarova , High School of Mathematics "Acad. Kiril Popov", Plovdiv, Bulgaria , High School of Mathematics "Acad. Kiril Popov", Plovdiv, Bulgaria Emmanuel Soon Yi En , Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), Singapore , Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), Singapore Aarush Tutiki, Albuquerque Academy, Albuquerque, New Mexico In addition, Munich Limpachat, a student from Ashbury College in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, was chosen by his RSI peers for the top honorRickoid of the Year. The award recognizes academic acumen, leadership, and personal demeanor, and is named for late Admiral H.G. Rickover, father of the nuclear Navy and a founder of CEE. These scholars are our future creators, inventors, scientists, and leaders of the 21st century, and their research represents a high level of academic acumen. They underscore the fact that the Center for Excellence in Education is the place for companies to find top-level STEM talent, said Joann P. DiGennaro, CEE President. The 2025 RSI summer program was held June 22 to Aug. 2. It consisted of one week of theoretical classroom work, followed by four-and-a-half weeks of innovative research under the mentorship of leading scientists, engineers, and researchers. In their final week, students demonstrate their research work through written academic papers and oral presentations to their peers and a panel of judges. About the Center for Excellence in Education The Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was founded in 1983 by the late Admiral H.G. Rickover and Joann P. DiGennaro, President of the Center. The Centers mission is to nurture high school and university scholars to careers of excellence and leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and to encourage collaboration between and among scientific and technological leaders in the global community. CEE sponsors the Research Science Institute (RSI), USA Biolympiad (USABO), Teacher Enrichment Program (TEP), and STEM Lyceums. For more information, visit www.cee.org. Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Fertilizers - Company Evaluation Report, 2025" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Fertilizers Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Fertilizers. 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 15 Fertilizers Companies were categorized and recognized as the quadrant leaders. The market is primarily driven by the growing global demand for food, which requires increased crop yields and enhanced agricultural productivity. Intensive farming practices have led to significant soil nutrient depletion, reinforcing the need for fertilizers to sustain soil health. Government subsidies and supportive policies, particularly in developing countries, play a vital role in promoting the use of agricultural inputs. Technological innovations - such as precision farming and controlled-release fertilizers - are improving efficiency and promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, there is a rising shift toward organic and bio-based fertilizers, driven by environmental concerns among farmers and regulatory bodies. The expansion of cash crop cultivation and the growth of international trade in agricultural commodities further contribute to market expansion. The 360 Quadrant maps Fertilizer companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, and sales strategies for the market presence of the Fertilizer quadrant. The top criteria for product footprint evaluation included crop type (cereals and grains, oilseeds and pulses, fruits and vegetables, and others) and application (chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers). Key Players: 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 Yara Yara is a Norwegian-based chemical company specializing in the production, distribution, and sale of nitrogen-based mineral fertilizers, along with phosphate and potash-based formulations. Its product portfolio includes complex and specialty mineral fertilizers tailored to enhance crop yields and soil health. With a global presence, Yara operates 26 production facilities and manages 200 infrastructure points worldwide. The company maintains a robust retail network, with over 10,800 Yara-branded outlets, supporting farmers with direct access to agricultural solutions and expertise. CF Industries Holdings, Inc. CF Industries is a leading global manufacturer of hydrogen and nitrogen-based fertilizer products. Operating nine world-scale manufacturing complexes across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, the company produces approximately 10 million tons of ammonia annually. This ammonia serves as a foundational product, used both directly in fertilizers and in industrial applications, and is also upgraded into a range of value-added products such as granular urea, urea ammonium nitrate (UAN), ammonium nitrate, and diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). CF Industries plays a critical role in supporting global food security through sustainable fertilizer solutions. Syngenta Group Syngenta Group is a global leader in agricultural science and technology, dedicated to helping farmers grow safe, nutritious, and high-yield crops. The company operates in more than 90 countries and delivers its products across regions including Europe, Turkey, Chile, France, Ireland, and Russia. Headquartered in Shanghai, China, with administrative offices in Switzerland, Syngenta Group is structured into four core business units: Syngenta Crop Protection (Switzerland), Syngenta Seeds (United States), ADAMA (Israel), and Syngenta Group China. Together, these divisions provide comprehensive, science-driven solutions for modern agriculture. Under its Syngenta Biologicals brand, the company also offers a range of fertilizer products, with a growing focus on sustainable and bio-based inputs to support environmentally responsible farming. Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Inclusions and Exclusions 1.3 Stakeholders 2 Executive Summary 3 Market Overview 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Macroeconomic Indicators 3.2.1 Global Population Growth and Food Demand 3.2.2 Global Gdp and Economic Growth 3.3 Market Dynamics 3.3.1 Drivers 3.3.1.1 Government Subsidies and Policies 3.3.1.2 Climate Change and Weather Patterns 3.3.1.3 Soil Fertility 3.3.1.4 Need to Increase Agricultural Productivity 3.3.2 Restraints 3.3.2.1 High Cost of Raw Materials 3.3.2.2 Growing Resistance of Insect Pests to Agrochemicals 3.3.3 Opportunities 3.3.3.1 New Technologies Reshaping Fertilizers Market 3.3.3.2 Growing Demand for Organic and Sustainable Farming 3.3.3.3 Expansion in Emerging Markets 3.3.4 Challenges 3.3.4.1 High Costs and Lengthy Development Processes 3.3.4.2 Regulatory Barriers 3.4 Impact of Ai/Gen Ai on Fertilizers Market 3.4.1 Introduction 3.4.2 Use of Gen Ai in Fertilizers Market 4 Industry Trends 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Value Chain Analysis 4.2.1 Research and Product Development 4.2.2 Material Sourcing 4.2.3 Agrochemical Manufacturing 4.2.4 Distribution and Sales Management 4.2.5 End-Use Industry 4.3 Supply Chain Analysis 4.4 Technology Analysis 4.4.1 Key Technologies 4.4.1.1 Microbial Inoculants 4.4.2 Complementary Technologies 4.4.2.1 Precision Agriculture Technologies 4.4.3 Adjacent Technologies 4.4.3.1 Nanotechnology 4.5 Ecosystem Analysis 4.5.1 Supply Side 4.5.1.1 Active Ingredient Manufacturers and Agrochemical Raw Material Providers & Manufacturers 4.5.2 Demand Side 4.5.2.1 Startups/Emerging Companies 4.5.2.2 Regulatory Bodies 4.5.2.3 End-users 4.6 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customer Business 4.7 Patent Analysis 4.8 Key Conferences and Events, 2025-2026 4.9 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 4.9.1 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry 4.9.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 4.9.3 Bargaining Power of Buyers 4.9.4 Threat of New Entrants 4.9.5 Threat of Substitutes 5 Competitive Landscape 5.1 Overview 5.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win 5.3 Annual Revenue Analysis 5.4 Market Share Analysis, 2023 5.5 Company Evaluation Matrix: Key Players, 2023 5.5.1 Stars 5.5.2 Emerging Leaders 5.5.3 Pervasive Players 5.5.4 Participants 5.5.5 Company Footprint: Key Players, 2023 5.5.5.1 Company Footprint 5.5.5.2 Region Footprint 5.5.5.3 Type Footprint 5.5.5.4 Mode of Application Footprint 5.5.5.5 Crop Type Footprint 5.6 Company Evaluation Matrix: Startups/Smes, 2023 5.6.1 Progressive Companies 5.6.2 Responsive Companies 5.6.3 Dynamic Companies 5.6.4 Starting Blocks 5.6.5 Competitive Benchmarking: Startups/Smes, 2023 5.6.5.1 Detailed List of Key Startups/Smes 5.6.5.2 Competitive Benchmarking of Key Startups/Smes 5.7 Company Valuation and Financial Metrics 5.8 Brand/Product/Service Comparison 5.9 Competitive Scenario 5.9.1 Product Launches 5.9.2 Deals 5.9.3 Expansions 6 Company Profiles Icl Yara K+S Aktiengesellschaft Nutrien Mosaic Cf Industries Holdings, Inc. Grupa Azoty Sqm S.A. Ocp Syngenta Group Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (Sabic) Koch Ip Holdings, LLC Haifa Negev Technologies Ltd Eurochem Group Lallemand Inc. Ipl Biologicals Bionema Rovensa Next Multiplex Group of Companies Agrilife Vise Organic Kula Bio, Inc. Switch Bioworks Genica Agroliquid For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/xa1znb 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. Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On August 12, BYD Commercial Vehicle and JD AUTO signed a strategic cooperation agreement at BYD's headquarters in Pingshan district, Shenzhen, according to a post on the former's WeChat account. The move marks a new phase in the two companies' push to accelerate the electrification of China's commercial vehicle sector. Photo credit: BYD Commericial Vehicle BYD Commercial Vehicle general manager Tian Chunlong noted that the transition to commercial vehicle electrification has entered a rapid growth phase, with market penetration of new energy commercial vehicles rising from single- to double-digit percentages. As the only commercial vehicle maker in China with in-house mastery of these core technologies for new energy vehicles (NEVs)battery, electric motor, electric control unit, and chip , BYD has leveraged its R&D strength and vertically integrated supply chain to expand its product range in line with market needs. Mr. Tian said the partnership would tap into JD.com's government and enterprise service platform to open up new application scenarios for BYD's new energy commercial vehicles. JD.com's senior vice president Wang Peinuan highlighted that JD AUTO has grown into a significant B2B platform with strong early-mover advantages and notable business growth. The company plans to prioritize BYD Commercial Vehicle promotion in sectors such as energy and tobacco, while also drawing on JD.com's capabilities in insurance and supply chain management to support the entire commercial vehicle lifecycle. The two sides also discussed potential cooperation on product onboarding, platform-based promotion, and employee purchasing programs, signaling a broad scope for collaboration beyond vehicle sales alone. Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Intelligent Robotics - Company Evaluation Report, 2025" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Intelligent Robotics Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Intelligent Robotics. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and industry trends. The 360 Quadrants evaluated over 108 companies, of which the Top 11 Intelligent Robotics Companies were categorized and recognized as quadrant leaders. Intelligent robotics represents an advanced frontier of automation, integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sophisticated sensing technologies to create robots with cognitive capabilities. Unlike traditional robots that follow explicit commands, intelligent robots can perceive and interpret their complex, unstructured environments, make autonomous decisions, and learn from experience. They leverage technologies like computer vision and natural language processing to understand their surroundings and interact more naturally and effectively with humans and other machines, enabling them to perform tasks that require adaptability and judgment. The primary driver for intelligent robotics is the demand to automate tasks that are too complex, variable, or dangerous for conventional robots. This includes applications like autonomous navigation for order picking in dynamic warehouses, precision harvesting in agriculture based on crop ripeness, and providing assistance in delicate surgical procedures. The continuous advancements in AI algorithms, combined with more powerful onboard processors and cheaper, more effective sensors, are making these sophisticated capabilities a practical reality. Industries are pushing for greater autonomy to enhance flexibility, safety, and efficiency in these challenging operational areas. However, the path to widespread adoption is fraught with significant hurdles. The development, training, and deployment of intelligent robotic systems are exceptionally complex and costly. Ensuring the safety, reliability, and ethical behavior of autonomous robots operating in public or collaborative spaces is a paramount technical and societal challenge. The immense computational power required for real-time AI processing demands significant energy and advanced hardware. Furthermore, securing these highly intelligent and connected systems from sophisticated cyber threats is a critical concern for developers and end-users alike. The 360 Quadrant maps the Intelligent Robotics companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, and sales strategies for the market presence of the Intelligent Robotics quadrant. The top criteria for product footprint evaluation included Mobility (Fixed and Mobile), Robot Type (Industrial Robots, Service Robots (By Type [Ground, Underwater], By Application Type [Commercial, Household], Collaborative Robots), and by Application (Industrial Automation, Logistics Warehousing, Healthcare & Medical Assistance, Agriculture, Military & Defense, Personal & Domestic Assistance, Other Applications). Key Players: Major vendors in the Intelligent Robotics market are NVIDIA Corporation (US), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (US), Intel Corporation (US), Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. (US), SoftBank Robotics Group (Japan), HANSON ROBOTICS LTD. (China), iRobot Corporation (US), ECOVACS (China), Intuitive Surgical (US), ABB (Switzerland), FANUC CORPORATION (Japan), Tesla (US), Diligent Robotics Inc. (US), Dusty Robotics (US), Starship Technologies (US), Moley Robotics (UK), Ecorobotix (UK), Agile Robots SE (Germany) and NEURA Robotics GmbH (Germany). The key strategies major vendors implement in the Intelligent Robotics market are partnerships, collaborations, product launches, and product enhancements. NVIDIA Corporation NVIDIA Corporation has solidified its position as the world's dominant leader in artificial intelligence and accelerated computing. Its data center GPUs are the foundational hardware for the AI revolution, while its GeForce line leads the gaming and creator markets. NVIDIA's core strategy extends beyond silicon; it is fortifying its powerful CUDA software ecosystem, which creates a deep competitive moat. By providing full-stack solutions that integrate hardware, networking, and enterprise AI software, NVIDIA is cementing its role as the essential platform provider for nearly every company building advanced AI and data-driven applications. Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has solidified its position as a leader in high-performance computing, challenging across all major semiconductor markets. Its EPYC server processors have captured significant data center share, while its Ryzen CPUs remain highly competitive in PCs. AMD's primary strategic focus is now on the AI accelerator market, positioning its Instinct GPUs and open ROCm software platform as the leading alternative to NVIDIA. By leveraging its innovative chiplet architecture and broad portfolio, including Xilinx FPGAs, AMD is aggressively competing to power the future of both traditional and AI-driven computing. Intel Corporation Intel Corporation is executing a historic turnaround strategy to re-establish its leadership in the semiconductor industry. While still a major force in PC and server CPUs with its Core and Xeon processors, its focus is on regaining manufacturing process leadership through an ambitious technology roadmap. A cornerstone of its strategy is building Intel Foundry Services (IFS) into a world-class chip manufacturer for external clients. Simultaneously, Intel is competing in the crucial AI accelerator market with its Gaudi processors, positioning itself as a key provider for the next era of computing. 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 Increasing Focus on Industrial Automation 3.2.1.2 Rapid Digital Transformation and Ai Integration in Critical Sectors 3.2.1.3 Rising Popularity of Robot-Assisted Surgeries 3.2.2 Restraints 3.2.2.1 Complexities Associated with Interoperability and Integration of Robotics Systems 3.2.2.2 Reluctance to Adopt New Technologies by Smes due to Financial and Operational Barriers 3.2.3 Opportunities 3.2.3.1 Shortage of Skilled Workforce and High Labor Costs 3.2.3.2 Implementation of Smart City Projects 3.2.3.3 Mounting Demand for Cost-Effective Eldercare Solutions 3.2.4 Challenges 3.2.4.1 High Technical Complexities and Commercialization Issues 3.3 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customer Business 3.4 Value Chain Analysis 3.5 Ecosystem Analysis 3.6 Technology Analysis 3.6.1 Key Technologies 3.6.1.1 Advanced Speech Synthesis 3.6.1.2 Machine Vision 3.6.1.3 Computer Vision 3.6.1.4 Robot-As-A-Service (Raas) 3.6.2 Complementary Technologies 3.6.2.1 Internet of Things (Iot) 3.6.3 Adjacent Technologies 3.6.3.1 Smart Materials 3.6.3.2 Soft Robotics 3.7 Patent Analysis 3.8 Key Conferences and Events, 2025-2026 3.9 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 3.9.1 Threat of New Entrants 3.9.2 Threat of Substitutes 3.9.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 3.9.4 Bargaining Power of Buyers 3.9.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry 4 Competitive Landscape 4.1 Overview 4.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win, 2021-2025 4.3 Revenue Analysis, 2020-2024 4.4 Market Share Analysis, 2024 4.5 Company Valuation and Financial Metrics 4.6 Brand 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 Mobility Footprint 4.7.5.4 Application Footprint 4.7.5.5 Robot Type 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, 2024 4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Key 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 Other Developments 5 Company Profiles Intuitive Surgical Irobot Corporation Ecovacs Kuka Ag Abb Nvidia Corporation Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Intel Corporation Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Softbank Robotics Group Hanson Robotics Ltd. Fanuc Corporation Tesla Diligent Robotics Inc. Dusty Robotics Starship Technologies Moley Robotics Ecorobotix Cmr Surgical Ltd. Neura Robotics GmbH Agile Robots Se Pal Robotics Covariant Realtime Robotics Brain Corporation Anybotics Sota Robotics (Hk) Limited Vecna Robotics For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gbg63n 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. SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EMEET, a leader in webcam innovation, has unveiled PIXY, the worlds first dual-camera AI-powered PTZ 4K webcam for creators, professionals, streamers, and gamers. With up to 4K Ultra HD video quality and a high-performance Sony sensor, PIXY delivers a crisp and clear image, further augmented by the second AI-assisted camera. BlinkFocus auto-focus locks in just 0.2 seconds 2.5 times faster than average while AI face detection adjusts exposure for natural skin tones and balanced lighting. Add in the gesture-controlled automatic tracking, which harnesses PIXYs ability to pan and tilt to follow you as you move around the camera, and PIXY ensures you are always sharp, clear, and framed perfectly. For content creators, PIXY offers presets for custom PTZ setups, enabling you to switch between different positions and zoom levels easily as you stream or record. The EMEET Studio companion softwares built-in AI scriptwriting feature is also there when you need a few good ideas for a voiceover or tips on how to shoot a specific shot. Our optimized presets are useful for everyone from creators to educators, with a clarity-enhancing Whiteboard Mode tuned for presenting information, an Inversion Mode for mounting the camera upside down, and even a vertical video-optimized Portrait (9:16) Mode for mounting the camera on its side. Privacy mode tilts the camera face-down manually or after a set timeout, visibly signaling when its off. Compact and mountable on monitors, shelves, or tripods, PIXY also supports Nintendo Switch 2. PIXY is now available for $159.99 at partner retailers, including Aliexpress/Amazon and MercadoLibre, starting today. About EMEET Established in August 2016, EMEET is a leading global company specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of AI-powered audio and video products. Focusing on collaboration, production, and creation, EMEET aims to develop an intelligent ecosystem for creative products through technological innovation and user experience optimization, endeavoring to redefine the industry standards for individual productivity tools and drive the growth of the global personal productivity market, fostering collaboration, empowering production, and inspiring creation. Contact Person: Amy Lv Email: support@emeet.com Website: https://emeet.com Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/66a6f25e-5746-41c4-90b5-0433169a8563 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6582d773-55b9-4e30-bbb5-1beffd52f46f https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ff9ab311-0c15-43fb-acc4-d69e4a9230c1 Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Delivery Robots - Company Evaluation Report, 2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Delivery Robots Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Delivery Robots. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and industry trends. The 360 Quadrants evaluated over 102 companies, of which the Top 07 Delivery Robots Companies were categorized and recognized as quadrant leaders. Delivery robots are autonomous vehicles designed to transport goods over short distances, automating the final, most expensive stage of the logistics chain known as last-mile delivery. These robots come in various forms, from small, six-wheeled rovers that navigate sidewalks to deliver food and groceries, to larger, purpose-built vehicles for road-based package delivery. They are equipped with a sophisticated array of sensors, including cameras, LiDAR, and GPS, and use complex AI-powered software to perceive their environment, avoid obstacles, and navigate safely to their destination. The market for delivery robots is driven by the explosive growth of e-commerce and the on-demand economy. Retailers and logistics companies are aggressively seeking solutions to reduce the high labor costs associated with human-based delivery and to increase efficiency and speed. These robots offer the potential for 24/7 operation, faster delivery times, and lower per-delivery costs. The push for contactless solutions, amplified by recent global health concerns, has also significantly accelerated interest and investment in this autonomous technology as a safe and reliable alternative to traditional delivery methods. Despite the promise, numerous challenges hinder widespread deployment. Navigating the chaotic and unpredictable nature of urban environments, with pedestrians, traffic, and variable weather, remains a formidable technical problem. The regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles on public sidewalks and roads is still underdeveloped and inconsistent across different jurisdictions, creating legal uncertainty. Gaining public trust and acceptance is another major hurdle, with concerns about safety, sidewalk congestion, and the security of the robot and its cargo needing to be addressed before large-scale rollouts are feasible. Key Players: Major vendors in the Delivery Robots market are Starship Technologies (US), JD.com, Inc. (China), Panasonic Holdings Corporation (Japan), Relay Robotics (US), Nuro, Inc. (AWS) (US), and Kiwibot (US). The key strategies major vendors implement in the Delivery Robots market are partnerships, collaborations, product launches, and product enhancements. JD.com, Inc. JD.com is a leading Chinese technology company renowned for its massive e-commerce platform and a highly advanced in-house logistics network. The company differentiates itself through a commitment to authentic goods and exceptionally fast delivery, powered by a vast system of automated warehouses and autonomous vehicles. Strategically, JD.com is focused on leveraging its technological prowess in logistics, not just for its own retail operations but also as a service for third parties. By investing heavily in AI and automation, JD.com reinforces its position as a global leader in defining the future of retail and fulfillment. Starship Technologies Starship Technologies is a global leader in autonomous last-mile delivery. The company designs and operates a fleet of small, six-wheeled robots that navigate sidewalks to deliver food and packages directly to customers. Its strategy is centered on scaling its delivery-as-a-service model, primarily on university campuses and in select urban areas where it has proven successful. By focusing on increasing the autonomy and operational efficiency of its fleet, Starship aims to make robotic delivery a cost-effective and mainstream reality, solidifying its pioneering position in the local logistics and delivery market. Nuro, Inc. Nuro is a leader in autonomous vehicle technology, uniquely focused on designing and operating custom-built robotic vehicles for on-road goods delivery. Its electric, occupantless vehicles are designed to transport items like groceries and food, partnering with major retail and delivery platforms. Nuro's core strategy involves navigating the complex regulatory environment to achieve larger-scale commercial deployments in targeted suburban areas. By focusing exclusively on goods transport, Nuro aims to accelerate the safe and efficient rollout of autonomous technology, positioning itself as a key player in the future of local commerce and logistics. 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 Reduction in Delivery Costs in Last-Mile Deliveries 3.2.1.2 Increase in Venture Funding 3.2.2 Restraints 3.2.2.1 Stringent Regulations Pertaining to Operations of Delivery Robots 3.2.3 Opportunities 3.2.3.1 Advancements in Features of Autonomous Delivery Robots 3.2.3.2 Worldwide Growth of E-Commerce Market 3.2.3.3 Restrictions on Use of Drones for Delivery Services 3.2.4 Challenges 3.2.4.1 Limited Range of Operation of Ground Delivery Robots 3.2.4.2 Safety Issues Associated with Operations of Delivery Robots in Populated Areas 3.3 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customer Business 3.3.1 Growing Adoption of Delivery Robots in E-Commerce 3.3.2 Increasing Use of Delivery Robots to Deliver Parcels, Groceries, and Food Items 3.4 Value Chain Analysis 3.5 Ecosystem Analysis 3.5.1 Suppliers 3.5.2 Robot Integrators 3.5.3 Software Solution Providers 3.6 Technology Trends 3.6.1 Key Technologies 3.6.1.1 Lidar Sensors 3.6.1.2 Gps 3.6.2 Complementary Technologies 3.6.2.1 Vision Guidance 3.6.3 Adjacent Technologies 3.6.3.1 Laser Guidance 3.7 Patent Analysis 3.7.1 Key Patents 3.8 Key Conferences and Events 3.9 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 3.9.1 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry 3.9.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 3.9.3 Bargaining Power of Buyers 3.9.4 Threat of Substitutes 3.9.5 Threat of New Entrants 3.10 Impact of Ai/Gen Ai on Delivery Robots Market 4 Competitive Landscape 4.1 Overview 4.2 Market Evaluation Framework 4.3 Revenue Analysis of Top Players in Delivery Robots Market 4.4 Market Share Analysis, 2024 4.5 Company Valuation and Financial Metrics, 2024 4.6 Brand/Product Comparative Analysis 4.7 Company Evaluation Quadrant 4.7.1 Stars 4.7.2 Pervasive Players 4.7.3 Emerging Leaders 4.7.4 Participants 4.7.5 Delivery Robots Market: Company Footprint 4.7.5.1 Company Footprint 4.7.5.2 Region Footprint 4.7.5.3 Number of Wheels Footprint 4.7.5.4 End-Use Industry Footprint 4.7.5.5 Type Footprint 4.7.5.6 Speed Footprint 4.7.5.7 Capacity Footprint 4.8 Startups/Smes Evaluation Matrix, 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 4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Key Startups/Smes 4.8.5.2 Competitive Benchmarking of Key Startups/Smes 4.9 Competitive Scenarios 4.9.1 Product Launches and Developments 4.9.2 Deals 4.9.3 Others 5 Company Profiles Starship Technologies Jd.Com, Inc. Panasonic Holdings Corporation Relay Robotics Inc. Nuro, Inc. Boston Dynamics Eliport Kiwibot Alibaba Group Holding Limited Ottonomy.Io Piaggio & C. Spa Teleretail Aethon Cleveron As Udelv, Inc. Segway Robotics Serve Robotics Effidence Anybotics Neolix Huitong (Beijing) Technology Co., Ltd. Beijing Zhen Robotics Co. Ltd Twinswheel Delivers.Ai Ltd Shenzhen Reeman Intelligent Equipment Co., Ltd. Pudu Technology Inc. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/w8w11l 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. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "3D Printing Robot - Company Evaluation Report, 2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The 3D Printing Robots Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for 3D Printing Robots. This quadrant offers a detailed evaluation of key market players, technological advancements, product innovations, and emerging trends shaping the industry. The 360 Quadrants evaluated over 110 companies, of which the Top 12 3D Printing Robots Companies were categorized and recognized as quadrant leaders. 3D printing robots are integrated systems that combine robotic arms or gantry frameworks with additive manufacturing print heads, enabling automated, scalable production of complex geometries using materials such as polymers, plastics, metals, and concrete. These systems are increasingly deployed in manufacturing environments, supporting applications from rapid prototyping to large-scale, customized production. Market growth is primarily driven by the shift toward automation and personalized manufacturing, technological advancements in robotic arms and additive manufacturing, and rising demand in the aerospace and defense sectors. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs, a shortage of skilled professionals, integration complexities, and concerns about durability and structural integrity may hinder market expansion. The 360 Quadrant maps the 3D Printing Robots companies based on criteria such as revenue, geographic presence, growth strategies, investments, and sales strategies for the market presence of the 3D Printing Robots quadrant. The top criteria for product footprint evaluation included BY Component & service (Robot Arms, 3D Printing Heads, Software, Services), By Type (Articulated, Cartesian, SCARA, Polar, Delta, Other Robot Types), BY Application (Prototyping, Tooling, Functional Part Manufacturing), and By End-Use Industry (Automotive, FMCG, Aerospace & Defense, Construction, Culinary, Other End-use Industries). Key Players Key players are actively investing in research and development, forming strategic partnerships, and engaging in collaborative initiatives to drive innovation, expand their global footprint, and maintain a competitive edge in this rapidly evolving market. Top 3 Companies KUKA AG KUKA AG, founded in 1898 and based in Augsburg, Germany, It's a world leader in automation technologies and with a notable presence in the 3D printing robotics market. The company provides end-to-end automation systems across diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, healthcare, and food and beverage. Its extensive portfolio features advanced robotic systems, control technologies, and software designed to increase productivity, lower operational costs, and optimize manufacturing efficiency. KUKA offers specialized 3D printing robotic solutions such as the KR QUANTEC, KR 4 AGILUS, and KR IONTEC - widely used in manufacturing, construction, and defense sectors for high-precision and large-format 3D printing applications. ABB ABB is a global leader in robotics and automation, offering a comprehensive range of 3D printing robots tailored for industries such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and healthcare. It also provides the RobotStudio Suite, a simulation and programming software that allows users to virtually model and optimize robotic operations before implementation. The company is structured into four main business segments: Electrification, Motion, Process Automation, and Robotics & Discrete Automation. Its 3D printing solutions are offered through the Robotics & Discrete Automation segment, which includes industrial and collaborative robots, machine automation, and factory integration solutions. FANUC CORPORATION FANUC CORPORATION is a leading developer of industrial robots, CNC systems, and advanced automation technologies. The company operates through four main divisions: Factory Automation (FA), Robot, Robomachine, and Service. Within its robot division, FANUC offers a portfolio of over 100 industrial robots tailored to diverse applications. Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Inclusions and 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 Shift Toward Automation and Personalized Manufacturing 3.2.1.2 Advancements in Robotic Arms and Additive Manufacturing 3.2.1.3 High Demand from Aerospace & Defense Sector 3.2.2 Restraints 3.2.2.1 High Initial Investment Costs 3.2.2.2 Lack of Skilled Workforce 3.2.3 Opportunities 3.2.3.1 Focus of Construction Industry on Sustainability 3.2.3.2 Emergence of Mobile 3D Printing Robotic Solutions 3.2.3.3 Need for Customized Healthcare Products 3.2.4 Challenges 3.2.4.1 Complexities Associated with System Integration 3.2.4.2 Concerns Regarding Durability and Structural Integrity 3.3 Porter's Five Forces Analysis 3.4 Ecosystem Analysis 3.5 Value Chain Analysis 3.6 Technology Analysis 3.6.1 Key Technologies 3.6.1.1 Selective Lazer Melting (Slm) 3.6.1.2 Fused Deposition Modelling (Fdm) 3.6.1.3 Binder Jetting 3.6.2 Adjacent Technologies 3.6.2.1 Post-Processing Robotics 3.6.3 Complementary Technologies 3.6.3.1 Ai for Defect Detection 3.6.3.2 Cloud Integration 3.7 Patent Analysis 3.8 Key Conferences and Events, 2025-2026 3.9 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customer Business 3.10 Impact of Ai on 3D Printing Market 4 Competitive Landscape 4.1 Overview 4.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win, 2021-2025 4.3 Revenue Analysis, 2021-2024 4.4 Market Share Analysis, 2024 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 Component Footprint 4.7.5.4 Robot Type Footprint 4.7.5.5 End-Use Industry 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, 2024 4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Key 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 5 Company Profiles Kuka Ag Abb Yaskawa Electric Corporation Fanuc Corporation Universal Robots A/S Massive Dimension Cead B.V. Caracol Weber Maschinenfabrik Meltio3D Comau Baubot GmbH Mx3D Twente Additive Manufacturing Dobot Dyze Design Rev3Rd S.R.L. Adaxis Sas Orbital Composites Inc. Ai Build Limited Octopuz Indusuite Hyperion Robotics Hypertherm, Inc. Ingersoll Machine Tools, Inc. 3D Minerals For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/xu8exs 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. CHICAGO, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The SBB Research Group Foundation named Danielle Wang a recipient of its STEM scholarship. The $2,500 award empowers students to create value for society by pursuing higher learning through interdisciplinary combinations of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Danielle Wang, a sophomore, studies biology and health economics at Brown University. In addition to her studies, Danielle has analyzed the biological interactions of over 13,000 FDA-approved drugs. For her biomedical research, she has received the Regeneron Biomedical Science Award and the Seagate Emerging Scientist Award. "Danielles drive to succeed is just incredible. Its humbling to be able to support such a committed student," said Matt Aven, co-founder and board member of the SBB Research Group Foundation. For eligibility criteria and more information on the Foundations STEM scholarship, please visit https://www.sbbscholarship.com/ About the SBB Research Group Foundation The SBB Research Group Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that furthers the philanthropic mission of SBB Research Group LLC (SBBRG), a Chicago-based investment management firm led by Sam Barnett, Ph.D., and Matt Aven. The Foundation sponsors the SBB Research Group Foundation STEM Scholarship, supporting students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) degrees. In addition to its scholarship program, the Foundation provides grants to support ambitious organizations solving unmet needs with thoughtful, long-term strategies. Contact: Erin Noonan Organization: SBB Research Group Foundation Email: scholarship@sbbrg.org Address: 450 Skokie Blvd, Building 600, Northbrook, IL 60062 United States Phone: 1-847-656-1111 Website: https://www.sbbscholarship.com/ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0dc9a313-6045-421b-b426-77d5b989ce3e Ottawa, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global food and beverage cold chain logistics market size accounted for USD 82.33 billion in 2024 and is predicted to rise form USD 90.81 billion in 2025 to around USD 219.44 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 10.3% from 2025 to 2034, according to study published by Towards FnB, a sister firm of Precedence Research. The food and beverage cold chain logistics market is rapidly expanding, fueled by the growing demand for fresh and frozen foods. The market is one of the booming markets in recent periods due to high demand for frozen food, the growth of e-commerce platforms, and the rising demand for storing food due to the growth of food-serving outlets. Note: This report is readily available for immediate delivery. We can review it with you in a meeting to ensure data reliability and quality for decision-making. Access the Full Study Instantly | Download Sample Pages of the Report Now@ https://www.towardsfnb.com/download-sample/5606 Market Overview The food and beverage cold chain logistics market has observed a significant growth in recent years due to the growth of the food and beverage industry globally, comprising consumers from various age groups. Increasing consumption of fresh and frozen food, operational efficiency, increasing food delivery services, along advanced technologies, are also some of the major factors in the growth of the market for food and beverage cold chain logistics. Changing eating habits of the growing population, especially the Gen Z generation, is also leading to the growth of the market. Innovative packaging, reduced food wastage, and improved food quality are also some of the major factors aiding the markets growth. The industry is undergoing a structural transformation driven by real-time monitoring systems, predictive maintenance, and sustainability-focused refrigeration solutions, said Vidyesh Swar, Principal Consultant at Towards FnB. These developments are improving operational efficiency while reducing wastage and ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards. Key Highlights of the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market By region, North America dominated the food and beverage cold chain logistics market due to the presence of advanced technologies and increasing preference for frozen foods and snack options. By region, the Asia Pacific is expected to grow in the foreseen period with the help of improving technological standards, high demand for fresh and frozen snack options, and the growth of the food and beverage industry. By application, the fruits, vegetables, and beverages segment led the market in 2024, whereas the meat and seafood segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period. By type, the warehouse segment led the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024, whereas the transportation segment is expected to grow in the foreseeable period. By end-use, the retail segment led the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024, whereas the e-commerce segment is expected to grow in the expected timeframe. New Trends of Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market Refrigeration technology with lower environmental impact, improved cooling to keep the food items safe, and lower energy costs is helping the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. Improved refrigeration technology, helpful to maintain a stable temperature to enhance the shelf life of food products, is also helping the growth of the market. Increased automation in refrigeration technology in the form of an IoT-enabled cold chain logistics system, for real-time management and real-time monitoring, is also helping the growth of the market. Sustainability Initiatives The industry is moving toward low-GWP refrigerants, solar-powered warehouses, and energy-efficient reefer units to meet net-zero targets. These measures aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, control operational expenses, and comply with evolving environmental regulations. How Has AI Transformed the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market? Artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the food and beverage cold chain logistics market by enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and product safety. AI-powered systems enable real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and other critical conditions throughout storage and transportation, ensuring compliance with food safety standards and reducing spoilage. Machine learning algorithms analyze large volumes of logistics and environmental data to predict potential equipment failures, route disruptions, or temperature deviations, allowing for proactive interventions. AI also supports demand forecasting, optimizing inventory levels to minimize waste and reduce operational costs. In addition, computer vision and automated quality inspection tools help detect damaged or compromised products before they reach consumers. By integrating with IoT devices and cloud platforms, AI ensures end-to-end visibility, transparency, and traceability across the cold chain, strengthening both operational reliability and consumer trust. View Full Market Intelligence@ https://www.towardsfnb.com/insights/food-and-beverage-cold-chain-logistics-market Recent Developments in the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market In May 2025 , Just Deliveries, a Cold-Chain logistics startup focused on mid-mile transport for the food and beverage industry, raised INR 5.5 crores in a funding round led by VC Grid and NABVentures. ( Source - https://www.entrepreneur.com) , Just Deliveries, a Cold-Chain logistics startup focused on mid-mile transport for the food and beverage industry, raised INR 5.5 crores in a funding round led by VC Grid and NABVentures. ( - https://www.entrepreneur.com) In May 2025, Noatum Logistics, part of AD Ports Group, opened its first robotically assisted, refrigerated warehouse in Lisbon to support the companys advancing business in the Western Mediterranean. (Source- https://www.porttechnology.org) Case Study: ColdStar Logistics' New Distribution Hub and Technological Integration Overview ColdStar Logistics, a leading provider of temperature-controlled supply chain solutions, recently expanded its operations with a new distribution hub in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This hub is strategically designed to address the rising demand for real-time deliveries in temperature-sensitive sectors, including the food and beverage industry. The expansion aims to support the increasing need for efficient and safe cold chain logistics, ensuring timely delivery of goods across India. Key Features: Advanced Infrastructure: The new facility can store over 3,500 pallets and is optimized for seamless logistics operations, such as sourcing, cross-docking, reverse logistics, and last-mile fulfillment. Strategic Location: Positioned near Vizag, India's largest seaport, the new hub benefits from easy access to both domestic and international supply chains, further enhancing operational efficiency. End-to-End Visibility: ColdStar's real-time monitoring and control systems provide full visibility across the supply chain, ensuring that temperature-sensitive goods maintain product integrity from origin to destination. Impact: This expansion is critical for addressing the growing demand for fresh and frozen foods, which require highly reliable cold chain solutions. By improving its infrastructure, ColdStar is better positioned to meet the increasing demand for temperature-sensitive goods while maintaining high standards of food safety and freshness. The integration of advanced tracking and monitoring technology ensures that the cold chain remains intact, reducing the risk of spoilage and wastecritical concerns in the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. ColdStars use of automation and real-time monitoring systems aligns directly with the trends you highlighted in your press release, such as the adoption of IoT-enabled cold chain systems and the shift toward more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly solutions. Market Dynamics What are the Growth Drivers of the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market? Multiple growth drivers are fueling the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in recent periods. High demand for fresh and frozen snacks, the growing food and beverage industry, technologically advanced refrigeration technology, and various similar factors are helping the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. Increased international trade of frozen items with the help of technologically advanced refrigeration techniques is also helping the growth of the market. Growth of online platforms requiring temperature-controlled sales is also fueling the markets growth. Restraint How Are Increased Operational Costs Hampering the Growth of the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market? Construction of temperature-controlled warehouses and cold storage facilities for the storage and export of fresh and frozen food items is one of the major costs incurred by the industry, leading to high operational costs. Such costs may restrain the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. International regulations and laws for such trading may also act as an obstacle to the growth of the market. Hence, such issues lower the profitability factors and act as restraints sometimes. Opportunity How Is Emerging Technology Expected to Shape the Growth of the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market in the Future? Innovative technologies for real-time monitoring and tracking of the package help manufacturers to keep track of their products and their shelf life, which is helping the growth of the market for food and beverage cold chain logistics. Smart packaging with embedded sensors to track the package along with the information of the content inside is also helping in ideal management and growth of the market as well. Such innovations are helping the market to grow in the foreseeable period. Adoption of AI-based route optimization in cold chain transport is projected to increase by 35% by 2028, enabling fuel consumption reductions of up to 15%. Renewable-powered cold storage facilities are expected to represent 12% of new warehouse capacity by 2030. Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market Regional Analysis North America dominated the Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market in 2024. North America dominated the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024 due to multiple factors, helping the growth of the market in the region. Factors such as growing demand for frozen and fresh food items, growth of online food delivery platforms, and improving refrigerating and cold storage technologies are some of the major factors for the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in the region. The U.S and Canada are the major contributing countries in the growth of the market in North America. Asia Pacific is observed to be the fastest-growing region in the Forecast Period. Asia Pacific is observed to be the fastest-growing region in the foreseen period, aiding the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. Factors such as increasing disposable income, improving standard of living, and urbanization are leading to the growth of the market. Improved technology for real-time monitoring, real-time data, and sensors for tracking the package are another set of factors helpful for the markets growth. Countries like India, China, Japan, and South Korea have a major contribution to the growth of the market in the region. Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market Report Scope Report Attribute Key Statistics Base Year 2024 Forecast Period 2025 to 2034 Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR of 10.3% Market Size in 2024 USD 82.33 Billion Market Size in 2025 USD 90.81 Billion Market Size by 2034 USD 219.44 Billion Dominated Region North America Fastest Growing Region Asia Pacific Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa Have Questions? Lets TalkSchedule a Meeting with Our Insights Team: https://www.towardsfnb.com/schedule-meeting Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market Segmental Analysis Application Analysis The fruits, vegetables, and beverages segment led the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024, as they are the staple food products required in our daily lives. Improved storage facilities aid the shelf life of such products, helping the growth of the market. Technological advancements for real-time tracking and monitoring help to lower the food wastage and maintain the condition of such food products as well. Hence, the segment led the market in 2024. The meat and seafood segment is set to grow at an exponential rate, driven by rising global consumption patterns and the increasing need for maintaining product freshness and safety across the supply chain. Meat and seafood products are highly perishable due to their high-fat and protein content, as well as their high water activity, which creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth if not stored properly. These characteristics make stringent cold chain management essential to prevent spoilage, preserve nutritional quality, and extend shelf life. Type Analysis The warehouse segment led the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024. Increasing demand for frozen food products, dairy products, pharmaceutical products, and other similar items requiring proper refrigeration and temperature-controlled warehouses helps the growth of the market. Such items need proper temperature control to maintain their shelf life, further fueling the growth of the market. The transportation segment is expected to grow in the food and beverage cold chain logistics market during the forecast period. Refrigerated containers are used for shipping items for long distances with short shelf life, which is helping the growth of the market for food and beverage cold chain logistics in the foreseeable period. Advanced technology, helpful for companies to track and manage their products along with real-time monitoring and smart packaging, is also helping the growth of the market. Hence, the segment is helpful to maintain the shelf life of easily perishable products such as probiotics, dairy, and pharmaceutical products. End-Use Analysis The retail segment dominated the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in 2024. High demand for supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores is helping the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market. The cold chain logistics are highly important for multiple domains, especially for the food and beverage industry; hence, such factors also help the growth of the market. Cold chain logistics help in the growth of the food and beverage industry by maintaining the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other food items. Hence, the segment led the market in 2024. Meanwhile, the e-commerce segment is expected to grow in the forecast period at the fastest rate because of the high demand for frozen food items on online platforms is leading to the growth of the food and beverage cold chain logistics market in the foreseeable future. Online food and grocery delivery platforms have been in high demand in recent periods due to their convenience, discounts in price, and other beneficial factors. Hence, the segment is observed to grow in the foreseen period. Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: sales@towardsfnb.com Additional Topics Worth Exploring: Food and Beverage Cold Chain Logistics Market Key Players Americold Realty Trust Inc. Burris Logistics Co. Capstone Logistics LLC Claus Sorensen AS Coldco Logistics ColdEX Ltd. Frigoscandia AB Hanson Logistics Ltd. John Swire and Sons Ltd. Kalypso Kloosterboer Lineage Logistics Holdings LLC NewCold Cooperatief UA Nichirei Corp. Seafrigo Group Stockhabo Tippmann Group TRENTON COLD STORAGE VersaCold Logistics Services Segments Covered in the Report By Application Meat and seafood Dairy and frozen desserts Fruits vegetables and beverages Bakery and confectionary By Type Warehouse Transportation By End-user Retail Food service E-commerce By Region North America U.S. Canada Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Thailand Europe Germany UK France Italy Spain Sweden Denmark Norway Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina Middle East and Africa (MEA) South Africa UAE Saudi Arabia Kuwait Thank you for exploring our insights. For more targeted information, customized chapter-wise sections and region-specific editions such as North America, Europe, or Asia Pacificare also available upon request. For Detailed Pricing and Tailored Market Report Options, Click Here: https://www.towardsfnb.com/price/5606 Feel Free to Get in Touch with Us for Orders or Any Questions at: sales@towardsfnb.com Unlock expert insights, custom research, and premium support with the Towards FnB Annual Membership. For USD 495/month (billed annually), get full access to exclusive F&B market data and personalized guidance. Its your strategic edge in the food and beverage industry: https://www.towardsfnb.com/get-an-annual-membership About Us Towards FnB is a global consulting firm specializing in the food and beverage industry, providing innovative solutions and expert guidance to elevate businesses. With an in-depth understanding of the dynamic F&B sector, we deliver customized market analysis and strategic insights. Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to empowering clients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring they stay ahead of market trends. Partner with us as we redefine success in the rapidly evolving food and beverage landscape, and together, well navigate this transformative journey. Web: https://www.towardsfnb.com/ Our Trusted Data Partners Precedence Research | Statifacts | Towards Packaging | Towards Chemical and Materials| Nova One Advisor | Food Beverage Strategies | For Latest Update Follow Us: LinkedIn | Medium| Twitter Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Q2 Metals Corp. (TSX.V: QTWO | OTCQB: QUEXF | FSE: 458) (Q2 or the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company has closed its previously announced upsized private placement of 26,000,000 common shares of the Company that qualify as flow-through shares (within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Tax Act (as defined below))(the FT Shares) at a price of $1.00 per FT Share (the Offering Price) for total gross proceeds of $26,000,000 (the Offering), which includes the full exercise of the Agents option for gross proceeds of $5,000,000. The Offering was conducted on best efforts private placement basis pursuant to an agency agreement dated August 14, 2025 between Canaccord Genuity Corp., as sole agent and bookrunner (the Agent), and the Company. The Offering consisted of the sale of 25,000,000 FT Shares (the LIFE FT Shares) sold pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions (NI 45-106) as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption) and 1,000,000 FT Shares (the Non-LIFE FT Shares) pursuant to prospectus exemptions under NI 45-106 other than the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. The Company will use an amount equal to the gross proceeds received by the Company from the sale of the FT Shares, pursuant to the provisions in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Tax Act), to incur (or be deemed to incur) eligible Canadian exploration expenses that qualify as flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures (as both terms are defined in the Tax Act) (the Qualifying Expenditures) related to the Companys mineral projects in Quebec, on or before December 31, 2026, and to renounce all the Qualifying Expenditures in favour of the subscribers of the FT Shares effective on or before December 31, 2025. As consideration for the Agents services, the Agent received a cash commission of $1,300,000 and 1,300,000 non-transferable broker warrants (the Broker Warrants) with each Broker Warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company (a Broker Share) at a price of $0.90 per Broker Share for a period of three years from the closing date of the Offering. The Offering remains subject to the final approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. The LIFE FT Shares are not subject to any hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws. The Non-LIFE FT Shares are subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the closing date of the Offering under applicable Canadian securities laws. An offering document related to the Offering can be accessed under the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Companys website at www.q2metals.com. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. persons unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. United States and U.S. person have the meaning ascribed to them in Regulation S under the 1933 Act. ABOUT Q2 METALS CORP. Q2 Metals is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the Cisco Lithium Project located within the greater Nemaska traditional territory of the Eeyou Istchee, James Bay, Quebec, Canada. The Cisco Project is comprised of 801 claims, totaling 41,253 hectares, with the main mineralized zone just 6.5 km from the Billy Diamond Highway, which transects the Project. The Town of Matagami, rail head of the Canadian National Railway, is approximately 150 km to the south. The Cisco Project has district-scale potential with an initial Exploration Target estimating a range of potential lithium mineralization and grade of 215 to 329 million tonnes at a grade ranging from 1.0 to 1.38% Li 2 O, based only on the first 40 holes drilled. Drill testing continues with mineralization open at depth and along strike with potential for significant expansion at the Cisco Mineralized Zone. The 2025 Summer Program is ongoing, with rolling assay results anticipated into Q3 2025 as the Company works towards a maiden resource estimate. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Alicia Milne President & CEO Alicia@Q2metals.com Jason McBride Investor Relations Manager Jason@Q2metals.com Chris Ackerman Corporate Development Chris@Q2metals.com Telephone: 1 (800) 482-7560 E-mail: info@Q2metals.com WWW.Q2Metals.com Follow the Company: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable Canadian legislation. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believes, expects, anticipates, intends, estimates, plans, may, should, would, will, potential, scheduled or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Accordingly, all statements in this news release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations and orientations regarding the future including, without limitation, any statements or plans regard the geological prospects of the Companys properties and the future exploration endeavors of the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date specified in such statement. Forward looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to use of proceeds of the Offering, tax treatment of the FT Shares, the Companys proposed summer exploration and drill programs, drilling results on the Cisco Project and inferences made therefrom, the preparation of an exploration target on the Cisco Project, the potential scale of the Cisco Project, the focus of the Companys current and future exploration and drill programs, the scale, scope and location of future exploration and drilling activities. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, reallocation of proposed use of funds, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same. Readers are cautioned that mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business and accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled Risk Factors in the Companys Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law. Neil McCallum, B.Sc., P.Geol., a registered permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release. Mr. McCallum is a director and the Vice President Exploration for Q2 Metals. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Boston, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the latest study from BCC Research, the Industry 4.0 Technologies: Global Market Through 2030 is projected to increase from $655.2 billion in 2025 to reach $1.6 trillion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.4% from 2025 through 2030. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global Industry 4.0 technologies market, segmented by technology, end-user industry, and region. It covers technologies such as big data and analytics, cloud computing, IIoT, AR/VR, robotics, 3D printing, digital twins, system integration, and cybersecurity. The report highlights major trends, challenges, and competitive dynamics. It also explores emerging technologies and patent activity and include profiles of leading companies shaping the industry 4.0 landscape. This report is particularly relevant today due to the rapid growth and integration of advanced Industry 4.0 technologies across global industries. Companies are turning to technologies like AI, ML, IIoT, big data analytics, cloud computing, and robotics for improved operational efficiency, productivity, and cost reductions. The increasing need for predictive maintenance, improved equipment effectiveness, and enhanced product quality in a competitive market further drives adoption. With continuous innovation in these areas, the report offers timely insights into current trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of industrial transformation. The factors driving the markets growth include: Growth of IoT Technology and Devices: The expansion of IoT is transforming industries by connecting machines, systems, and devices to share data seamlessly. This connectivity enables smarter operations, predictive maintenance, and real-time monitoring, making industrial processes more efficient and responsive. Increased Government Funding for Robotics R&D: Governments are investing in robotics to drive innovation, improve productivity, and address demographic challenges. This funding accelerates the development of advanced automation technologies, which are central to Industry 4.0 adoption across sectors. Increasing Labor Shortages: Due to aging populations and skill gaps, many industries face workforce shortages. Industry 4.0 technologies help fill this gap by automating tasks, enhancing productivity, and enabling operations with fewer human resources, making automation a strategic necessity. Real-Time Data Generated from Sensors and Other Smart Devices: Smart devices and sensors generate continuous data streams that are vital for monitoring, analysis, and optimization. This real-time data empowers industries to make faster decisions, improve quality, and implement AI-driven solutions for smarter manufacturing. Request a sample copy of the global market for Industry 4.0 technologies report. Report Synopsis Report Metric Details Base year considered 2024 Forecast period considered 2025-2030 Base year market size $551.7 billion Market size forecast $1.6 trillion Growth rate CAGR of 19.4% for the forecast period of 2025-2030 Segments covered Technology, End-Use Industry, Region Regions covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Rest of the World Countries covered U.S., Canada, U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, Latin America, Middle East and Africa Market drivers Growth of IoT Technology and Devices Increased Government Funding for Robotics R&D Increasing Labor Shortages Real-Time Data Generated from Sensors and Other Smart Devices Interesting facts: In 2024, IIoT held the largest market share of 39.3% in the industry 4.0 technologies market. The rapid adoption of IIoT in the manufacturing sector for increased productivity and efficiency, the growing demand for automation across industries, and the use of IIoT for predictive maintenance and data-driven decision making drive demand for IIoT in the Industry 4.0 technologies market. The North America region is the largest market, primarily due to its strong industrial base and investments in R&D of technologies like AI, IoT, and cloud computing. Furthermore, the region's robust digital infrastructure and major technology corporations such as Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet (Google), and Nvidia, facilitate the widespread adoption and integration of these advanced solutions across various sectors. Emerging startups: Averroes: Established in 2021, Averroes AI offers automated AI visual inspection software with over 99% accuracy. This system provides reliable and comprehensive quality control for various industries, including oil and gas, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Its software can be integrated seamlessly with existing systems without requiring additional hardware. Sorsys Technologies: Founded in 2016, Sorsys Technologies designs and manufactures industrial automation solutions, including tailored automated quality inspection solutions and customized machinery. They company serves various sectors and also develop custom automation solutions for unique industry needs. Oxipital AI: Founded in 2024, Oxipital AI offers visual AI solutions to enhance manufacturing efficiency and address operational challenges. Through its visual AI platform, it primarily serves industries with complex and high variability manufacturing environments, including food processing, agriculture, and consumer packaged goods. The report addresses the following questions: What are the projected size and growth rate of the global Industry 4.0 technologies market? The global market for Industry 4.0 technologies was valued at $551.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $1.6 trillion by the end of 2030, growing at a CAGR of 19.4% from 2025 to 2030. Which factors are driving the growth of the industry 4.0 technologies market? The factors driving the global Industry 4.0 technologies market growth include the rising growth of IoT technology and devices, increasing government funding for robotics R&D, increasing labor shortages, real-time data generated from sensors and other smart devices, and rising demand for solar energy and solar cells, carbon footprint reduction, and rising energy demand. Which end-user industry segment will be dominant through 2030? The electrical and electronics segment will continue to dominate the global Industry 4.0 technologies market through the end of 2030. Which region has the highest market share in the global Industry 4.0 technologies market? The North American region has the highest market. What are the key challenges and opportunities in the market? Key challenges include safety and security concerns in Industry 4.0, the absence of standardization in IoT protocols of Industry 4.0, interoperability issues of legacy infrastructure and communication networks, inadequate IT infrastructure and connectivity issues, Opportunities include the increasing use of cloud deployments, 3D printing technologies combined with digital twin applications, and the ongoing deployment of 5G technology and the emergence of 6G, among others. Market leaders include: 3D SYSTEMS INC. ABB ACCENTURE ALPHABET INC. (GOOGLE INC.) AMAZON.COM INC. AUTODESK INC. BOSCH REXROTH AG CISCO SYSTEMS INC. EOS GMBH GE VERNOVA IBM INTEL MATERIALISE MICROSOFT ORACLE ROCKWELL AUTOMATION SIEMENS SONY GROUP CORP. STRATASYS 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. 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. Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Environmental Testing Products Company Evaluation Report" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Environmental Testing Companies Quadrant is a comprehensive industry analysis that provides valuable insights into the global market for Environmental Testing. 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 15 Environmental Testing Companies were categorized and recognized as the quadrant leaders. The market is experiencing strong growth, driven by stringent environmental regulations, rapid industrialization, and heightened awareness of pollution's health impacts. Governments across the globe are enforcing strict compliance standards for air, water, and soil quality, prompting industries to adopt advanced environmental testing solutions. Additionally, climate change initiatives and sustainability targets are accelerating the demand for real-time monitoring systems, IoT-enabled sensors, and AI-powered analytics. Rising incidents of soil and water contamination, along with the expansion of renewable energy projects and smart city developments, are further boosting market demand. As both industries and governments place greater emphasis on environmental protection, the need for accurate, efficient, and technology-driven testing solutions continues to grow. The top criteria for product footprint evaluation included the tested material(microbial contamination, organic compounds, heavy metals, residues, and solids). By sample (wastewater or effluent, soil, air, and others, such as fuel and chemicals). By technology (rapid testing, conventional methods). By end user (agriculture & irrigation sector, government institutes, research and academic institutions, healthcare, industries, and forestry & geology). Key Players: Some of the prominent players are Agilent Technologies, Inc. (US), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (US), Danaher Corporation (US), Waters Corporation (US), Merck KGaA (Germany), and others. These 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 Agilent Technologies, Inc. Agilent Technologies is a global leader in the life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that includes instruments, software, services, and consumables designed to support the entire laboratory workflow. The company operates across three core business segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets, Diagnostics and Genomics, and Agilent CrossLab. Within the Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment, Agilent provides advanced instrumentation such as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) - key technologies used in environmental testing and related applications. Merck KGaA Merck KGaA is a global science and technology company involved in the development, production, marketing, and distribution of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, high-performance materials, and life science tools. In 2015, Merck KGaA significantly expanded its footprint in the life sciences sector through the acquisition of Sigma-Aldrich (US). The company is structured into three main business segments: Healthcare (including Merck Serono, Consumer Health, Allergopharma, and Biosimilars), Performance Materials, and Life Science (operated under the Merck Millipore brand). Within the Life Science segment, Merck Millipore offers cutting-edge solutions for PFAS trace analysis, supporting environmental testing and regulatory compliance. Merck KGaA maintains a strong global presence with operations across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and Africa. Its major subsidiaries include Merck Serono GmbH, Merck Consumer Health Holding GmbH, Merck Selbstmedikation, Merck Chemicals GmbH, and Merck Schuchardt OHG, all headquartered in Germany. PerkinElmer PerkinElmer is a prominent provider of technologies, services, and solutions catering to the diagnostics, life sciences, environmental, industrial, and laboratory sectors. In March 2023, its Life Science and Diagnostics division was spun off into a separate entity named Revvity, allowing the company to streamline its focus. PerkinElmer operates through two main segments: Discovery & Analytical Solutions and Diagnostics. Within the Discovery & Analytical Solutions segment - specifically under the Applied Markets division - PerkinElmer offers a broad range of mass spectrometry instruments used in environmental analysis and other scientific applications. Its customer base includes pharmaceutical and biotech companies, as well as academic and research institutions. Key Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 1.1 Market Definition 1.2 Inclusions & Exclusions 1.3 Market Stakeholders 2 Executive Summary 3 Market Overview 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Market Dynamics 3.2.1 Drivers 3.2.1.1 Rising Technological Innovations in Environmental Testing 3.2.1.2 Growing Public Awareness Related to Health Impact of Pollution 3.2.1.3 Development of Portable and Real-Time Environmental Monitoring Technologies 3.2.1.4 Increased Participation of Government and Regulatory Bodies in Monitoring Environmental Conditions 3.2.2 Restraints 3.2.2.1 Expensive Consumables and High Maintenance Cost of Mass Spectrometry Instruments 3.2.2.2 Technological Limitations in Mass Spectrometry 3.2.3 Opportunities 3.2.3.1 Increasing Government Focus on Contaminant Detection 3.2.3.2 Increased Utilization of Ai-Driven Analytical Tools to Detect Air and Soil Pollution 3.2.3.3 Advancements in Environmental Testing Infrastructure 3.2.4 Challenges 3.2.4.1 Increased Operational Complexity of Mass Spectrometry Products 3.2.4.2 Lack of Skilled Professionals 3.3 Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customers' Businesses 3.4 Value Chain Analysis 3.4.1 Research & Product Development 3.4.2 Raw Material Procurement and Manufacturing 3.4.3 Distribution and Marketing & Sales 3.4.4 Post-Sales Services 3.5 Supply Chain Analysis 3.5.1 Prominent Companies 3.5.2 Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises 3.5.3 Distributors 3.5.4 End-users 3.6 Ecosystem Analysis 3.6.1 Role in Ecosystem 3.7 Technology Analysis 3.7.1 Key Technologies 3.7.1.1 Mass Spectrometry (Ms) 3.7.1.2 Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Lc-Ms) 3.7.1.3 Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Gc-Ms) 3.7.2 Complementary Technologies 3.7.2.1 Laboratory Process Automation 3.7.2.2 Cloud Computing 3.7.3 Adjacent Technologies 3.7.3.1 Environmental Sensors 3.8 Patent Analysis 3.9 Key Conferences & Events, 2025-2026 3.10 Porter's Five Force Analysis 3.10.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers 3.10.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers 3.10.3 Threat of New Entrants 3.10.4 Threat of Substitutes 3.10.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry 3.11 Unmet Needs 3.12 Impact of Gen Ai/Ai on Environmental Testing Products Market 3.12.1 Market Potential of Environmental Testing Products 3.12.2 Ai Use Cases 3.12.3 Key Companies Implementing Ai 3.12.4 Future of Ai in Environmental Testing Products Ecosystem 4 Competitive Landscape 4.1 Overview 4.2 Key Player Strategies/Right to Win 4.2.1 Overview of Strategies Adopted by Players in Environmental Testing Products Market 4.3 Revenue Analysis, 2019-2023 4.4 Market Share Analysis, 2023 4.5 Company Valuation and Financial Metrics 4.5.1 Company Valuation 4.5.2 Financial Metrics 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 Type Footprint 4.7.5.4 Technology Footprint 4.7.5.5 Application Footprint 4.7.5.6 End-User 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, 2024 4.8.5.1 Detailed List of Key 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 5 Company Profiles Agilent Technologies, Inc. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Waters Corporation Danaher Bruker Shimadzu Corporation Perkinelmer Jeol Ltd. Hitachi High-Tech Corporation Teledyne Technologies Incorporated Ametek, Inc. Jasco Corporation Merck KGaA Leco Corporation Analytik Jena GmbH+Co. Kg Hiden Analytical Rigaku Holdings Corporation Youngin Chromass Scion Instruments Restek Corporation Kore Technology Process Insights, Inc. Masstech Advion, Inc. Skyray Instruments Usa, Inc. Microsaic For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/6ukqpp 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. This marks the second year in a row that Pacvue has been selected as a winner in the annual MarTech Breakthrough Awards program, taking home the award for Campaign Management Innovation in 2024 LOS ANGELES, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pacvue , the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement, today announced it has been selected as winner of the "Best Overall MarTech Solution award in the eighth annual MarTech Breakthrough Awards program conducted by MarTech Breakthrough , a leading market intelligence organization that recognizes the top companies, technologies and products in the global marketing, sales and advertising technology industry. In an oversaturated MarTech environment, Pacvue stands out as a leader, said Melissa Burdick, co-founder and president of Pacvue. We are viewed as a trusted partner for brands seeking more from their retail media investment, due to our unparalleled breadth of commerce partnerships, integration of AI with human expertise and the platforms ability to link ad performance directly to bottom-line results. This award highlights the efforts of our team and our core mission: making the power of commerce data accessible and actionable for every marketer. Trusted by over 70,000 brands and agencies worldwide, Pacvue empowers advertisers to seamlessly manage more than $13 billion in annual ad spend across 95+ global retailers from Amazon and Walmart to Target and Instacart. Founded in 2018, Pacvue didnt just ride the wave of retail media, it helped shape the concept. One of the original partners of Amazons advertising API, Pacvues foresight and engineering strength helped it rise above dozens of tools that emerged and later disappeared through the post-Covid reshuffle. Today, Pacvue remains a market leader due to its relentless focus on innovation, enterprise reliability and proven outcomes. Beyond its cutting-edge technology, Pacvue's strength lies in its highly seasoned leadership team, which boasts deep roots within industry giants such as Amazon and Microsoft, along with other global tech leaders. Recognizing the accelerating pace of technological evolution, Pacvue further expanded its executive ranks over the past few years, welcoming top talent, specifically in AI and predictive analytics. This strategic reinforcement underscores the company's commitment to advancing AI in commerce and retail media. Pacvue does this by leveraging rule-based automations and AI-powered recommendations across advertising and operations to slash time spent on manual work, prevent revenue loss and allocate ad spend efficiently. The mission of the MarTech Breakthrough Awards is to honor excellence and recognize the innovation, hard work and success in a range of marketing, sales and advertising technology-related categories, including marketing automation, customer experience, performance marketing, AdTech, SalesTech, marketing analytics, content and social marketing, mobile marketing and many more. About Pacvue: Pacvue is the leading commerce acceleration platform that integrates retail media, commerce management and measurement. The companys first-to-market platform drives incrementality, profitability and market share for brands, while turning insights into actionable recommendations. Backed by a global team of experts, Pacvue works with over 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers worldwide including Amazon, Walmart, Target and Instacart. With the incorporation of Pacvues enterprise solution with Helium 10 for SMBs, Pacvue is now the most comprehensive commerce and retail media platform available in the market. Founded in 2018, their global presence includes locations in Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Shanghai and Tokyo. For more information, visit www.pacvue.com . Shanghai (Gasgoo)- In a significant milestone for its European strategy, China Dongfeng Motor Industry Import & Export Co., Ltd.'s passenger car overseas marketing division recently signed an agreement with a key Italian partner for an annual order of 9,000 vehicles, according to a press release the company issued on August 13 via its WeChat account. The deal covers flagship models from Dongfeng Motor's core brands, including Mage, Huge, and Shine, underscoring the automaker's growing ambitions in the European market. Earlier this year, leading dealers from across Italystretching from Milan and Rome to Turin and Naplesaccepted Dongfeng Motor's invitation to visit the company's headquarters and manufacturing facilities in China. The delegation witnessed the full production process, from parts assembly to completed vehicles, and explored the core technologies and safety features underpinning the automakers' vehicle models. The first-hand experience helped ease concerns and cemented the groundwork for deeper collaboration. Dongfeng Motor is also rapidly building its sales network in Italy. So far, 20 dealerships have signed on, covering the entire country. By the end of 2025, that figure is expected to exceed 40, forming a nationwide sales and service network to support long-term growth. Beyond distribution, the company is using localized marketing to embed the Dongfeng brand into the cultural landscape of the Apennine Peninsula. Photo credit: China Dongfeng Motor Industry Import & Export Co., Ltd. In Milan's city center, giant billboards pair Dongfeng's sleek silhouettes with the skyline, while in Rome, live roadshows draw crowds as staff demonstrate intelligent driving assistance systems. Pop-up experience storesset up in fashionable Milan districts and Naples' waterfront mallsbring the latest models directly to consumers, offering a tactile feel of the build quality and futuristic interiors that give "Made in China" a tangible, high-tech face. These events are designed as two-way exchanges rather than simple showcases. With Italian consumers known for their high expectations in performance, design, and environmental standards, the roadshows and pop-ups serve as key channels for gathering feedback. Europe's stringent entry standards remain a major hurdle for all overseas brands. Dongfeng Motor said its technical team anticipated this challenge, initiating certification processes early to speed up market entry. Several core models have recently passed EU testing, securing the necessary approvals to be sold in Italy. Compliance is just the first step; after-sales service is equally crucial. In July, Dongfeng Motor inaugurated its European training center in Milan, with the first session drawing sales and service specialists from across Italy. Company announcement no. 26 Spar Nord Bank A/S will hold an Extraordinary General Meeting on Friday 5 September 2025 at 11:30 at the Company's offices at Skelagervej 15, DK-9000 Aalborg. Agenda: Election of chairman of the meeting. Remuneration Policy for approval. Proposal for amendment of the Company's Articles of Association. The agenda of the Company's General Meeting, the updated Remuneration Policy and updated Articles of Association will be available for inspection by the shareholders at the Company's address prior to the General Meeting. Item 2 on the agenda proposes approval of the updated Remuneration Policy for the Nykredit Group. The Remuneration Policy has been updated following the acquisition of Spar Nord Bank A/S. Item 3 on the agenda proposes amendment of the Company's Articles of Association, as the Company has been delisted and no longer has shares registered with VP Securities A/S. Further, it is proposed that a number of technical provisions in the Company's Articles of Association on the holding of general meetings be deleted, as these are no longer relevant because the Company has only one shareholder. It is proposed that the deadline for holding annual general meetings be changed to the end of April. Finally, it is proposed that the signing rules be changed to the effect that the Company is bound by the joint signatures of two members of the Board of Directors, by the joint signatures of two members of the Executive Board, by the joint signatures of a member of the Board of Directors and a member of the Executive Board or by the joint signatures of all members of the Board of Directors. Spar Nord Bank A/S Board of Directors Attachment AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Magnus Technologies (Magnus), a leading Transportation Management System (TMS) software provider, today announced its No. 3,874 ranking on the annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious group of the fastest-growing private companies in America. This marks the third year Magnus has earned a spot on the prestigious list, following rankings of No. 4,064 in 2023 and No. 4,467 in 2022. Magnus earned this achievement as a result of its comprehensive mobile dispatch and order fulfillment platform, offering affordability and scalability for truckload fleets of all sizes. This three-time milestone is a direct reflection of Magnus relentless drive to build, to innovate, and to lead. Our team doesnt settle for incremental change, were rethinking the entire transportation and logistics ecosystem, said Matt Cartwright, CEO of Magnus Technologies. Magnus is not just enhancing TMS, were redefining how fleets operate through automation, mobility, and real-time intelligence. This recognition is a testament to our teams commitment to delivering scalable, modern solutions that help our customers grow faster and operate smarter. Over the past year, Magnus has significantly advanced its enterprise Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)-based TMS platform with AI-driven forecasting, expanded integrations with leading industry partners, enhanced driver workflows, and real-time exception management, solidifying its position as an innovator in fleet technology. As a result, Magnus has improved fleet visibility, optimized dispatch efficiency, and reduced empty miles across its customer base. Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a companys 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 didnt just weather the storm they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy. The 2025 Inc. 5000 ranks companies by their percentage revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. To be eligible, companies must have been established and generating revenue by March 31, 2021. They are required to be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent (not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies) as of December 31, 2024. A minimum revenue of $100,000 for 2021 and $2 million for 2024 is necessary for qualification. For the full list, company profiles, and a searchable database by industry and location, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000. About Magnus Technologies Magnus Technologies, headquartered in Austin Texas, has 20 years of experience designing, developing, and delivering enterprise Transportation Management System (TMS) software. Magnus offers an enterprise SaaS-based TMS that is affordable and scalable to fleets of all sizes. The modular platform works seamlessly with the Magnus Driver App and Magnus Carrier Advantage network to deliver a complete, end-to-end mobile dispatch and order fulfillment solution to maximize profitability and growth. To learn more, visit www.magnustech.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 Michelle Williams LeadCoverage michelle.w@leadcoverage.com MIAMI and NEW YORK and LONDON, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cyber A.I. Group, Inc. (CyberAI or the Company), an emerging growth Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence and IT services company engaged in the development of next-generation market disruptive AI-driven Cybersecurity technology, announced today the appointment of NASA astronaut Charles J. Camarda, Ph.D. as Strategic Innovation Advisor. Dr. Camarda, a veteran of NASAs 2005 STS-114 Return to Flight mission, brings world-class expertise in aerospace engineering, systems innovation and advanced problem-solving to CyberAIs global technology initiatives. Dr. Camarda will collaborate with CyberAIs executive leadership to accelerate the Companys innovation strategy, leveraging his experience in high-stakes engineering and breakthrough methodologies to guide the evolution of CyberAI Sentinel 2.0. His appointment reinforces CyberAIs commitment to providing transformative low-cost AI-powered cybersecurity solutions on a subscription-based model for enterprises worldwide. Charlie is an extraordinary innovator whose career embodies the fusion of science, engineering and problem-solving at the highest levels, said A.J. Cervantes, Jr., Executive Chairman of CyberAI. His unique experiencefrom pioneering thermal protection systems at NASA to solving critical challenges on the International Space Stationwill help CyberAI push the boundaries of innovation in AI-driven cybersecurity. Dr. Camarda joined NASA in 1974 and was selected as an astronaut in 1996. He served as a Mission Specialist on STS-114 aboard Space Shuttle Discovery, NASAs first mission following the Columbia accident, where he played a vital role in the missions inspection and repair procedures. In addition to his flight experience, Dr. Camarda has held leadership roles as Senior Advisor for Innovation at NASAs Office of Chief Engineer and is the founder of the Epic Challenge program, which fosters global innovation and STEM problem-solving. Cyber A.I. Group represents a bold and forward-looking approach to innovation, combining AI and cybersecurity to address one of the most urgent challenges of our time, said Dr. Camarda. Im excited to contribute my experience in complex systems and creative problem-solving to help CyberAI drive transformative solutions for organizations worldwide. CyberAI Sentinel 2.0 is CyberAIs next-generation AI-driven cybersecurity platform, designed to provide a holistic, intelligent and adaptive defense against digital threats. As part of its global expansion and innovation roadmap, CyberAI aims to deliver scalable solutions to enterprises while pursuing its strategic goal of achieving $100 million in revenue and an anticipated listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) Main Market. Dr. Camarda holds a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Tech, an M.S. in Engineering Science from George Washington University and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn (NYU Tandon). He is an elected Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) and continues to lead initiatives in STEM, innovation and entrepreneurial leadership. About Cyber A.I. Group Cyber A.I. Group, Inc. (CyberAI) is a next-generation technology company pioneering the development of advanced, proprietary platforms at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. With a mission to redefine how organizations protect, predict and respond to digital threats, CyberAI is positioning patent pending technologies that enable autonomous threat detection, adaptive risk mitigation and intelligent system resilience across enterprise and cloud environments. At the core of CyberAIs innovation is a team of world-class technologists, data scientists and cybersecurity experts dedicated to creating breakthrough solutions that are scalable, secure and globally deployable. The companys technologies are designed to address the most urgent and complex challenges facing todays digital infrastructurefrom AI-driven security orchestration to autonomous anomaly detection and predictive analytics for critical systems. CyberAIs commitment to continuous innovation and deep IP development is positioning it at the critical merger between AI and the global cybersecurity landscape. By fusing artificial intelligence with real-world cyber defense expertise, the company aims to set new standards for intelligent infrastructure protection and digital trust. For more information, please visit: cyberaigroup.io Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c839bc0c-539e-4e20-82bc-94e58289e933 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/35c5bd8e-83f4-439e-a45b-6df9951aa305 Dublin, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "HVAC Services Market 2025-2029" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The HVAC services market is projected to expand by USD 46.03 billion between 2024 and 2029, with a robust CAGR of 8.8%. This growth is driven by rising surface temperatures, increased retrofitting demand in developed regions, and the critical need to curb energy consumption and operational costs. These shifts are profoundly impacting the HVAC landscape, shaping trends and opportunities within the industry. Other growth factors include the adoption of advanced monitoring systems and intelligent technologies, which are further propelled by the buoyant expansion of the construction industry and the rise of data centers. These elements are set to materially influence market demand over the coming years. This comprehensive report delves into current market conditions, revealing prevailing trends and growth drivers while assessing market challenges. The analysis, combining primary and secondary data, involves key industry participants that offer insights into the market's dynamics. The study provides detailed segment analyses by service type, end-user, distribution channel, and geographical landscapes, covering regions such as APAC, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and South America. The report also features an extensive vendor analysis aimed at enhancing market positioning for clients. It includes insights into leading companies such as ABM Industries Inc., Air Comfort, Alexander Mechanical Inc., Blue Star Ltd., Carrier Global Corp., and more. This vendor assessment sheds light on upcoming trends and obstacles that could impact market trajectories, assisting companies in crafting effective strategies to seize growth opportunities. Key Topics Covered 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Analysis 2.1 Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria 2.2 Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation 2.3 Factors of disruption 2.4 Impact of drivers and challenges 3 Market Landscape 3.1 Market ecosystem 3.2 Market characteristics 3.3 Value chain analysis 4 Market Sizing 4.1 Market definition 4.2 Market segment analysis 4.3 Market size 2024 4.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2024-2029 5 Historic Market Size 5.1 Global HVAC Services Market 2019 - 2023 5.2 Service Type segment analysis 2019 - 2023 5.3 End-user segment analysis 2019 - 2023 5.4 Distribution Channel segment analysis 2019 - 2023 5.5 Geography segment analysis 2019 - 2023 5.6 Country segment analysis 2019 - 2023 6 Qualitative Analysis 6.1 The AI impact on Global HVAC services Market 7 Five Forces Analysis 7.1 Five forces summary 7.2 Bargaining power of buyers 7.3 Bargaining power of suppliers 7.4 Threat of new entrants 7.5 Threat of substitutes 7.6 Threat of rivalry 7.7 Market condition 8 Market Segmentation by Service Type 8.1 Market segments 8.2 Comparison by Service Type 8.3 Air conditioning services - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 8.4 Heating services - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 8.5 Ventilation services - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 8.6 Market opportunity by Service Type 9 Market Segmentation by End-user 9.1 Market segments 9.2 Comparison by End-user 9.3 Non-residential - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 9.4 Residential - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 9.5 Market opportunity by End-user 10 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel 10.1 Market segments 10.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel 10.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 10.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 10.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel 11 Customer Landscape 11.1 Customer landscape overview 12 Geographic Landscape 12.1 Geographic segmentation 12.2 Geographic comparison 12.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.4 North America - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.5 Europe - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.6 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.7 South America - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.8 US - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.9 China - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.10 Japan - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.11 India - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.12 Germany - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.13 Canada - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.14 South Korea - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.15 UK - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.16 France - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.17 Italy - Market size and forecast 2024-2029 12.18 Market opportunity By Geographical Landscape 13 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints 13.1 Market drivers 13.2 Market challenges 13.3 Impact of drivers and challenges 13.4 Market opportunities/restraints 14 Competitive Landscape 14.1 Overview 14.2 Competitive Landscape 14.3 Landscape disruption 14.4 Industry risks 15 Competitive Analysis 15.1 Companies profiled 15.2 Company ranking index 15.3 Market positioning of companies 15.4 ABM Industries Inc. 15.5 Air Comfort 15.6 Alexander Mechanical Inc. 15.7 Blue Star Ltd. 15.8 Carrier Global Corp. 15.9 Daikin Industries Ltd. 15.10 Emerson Electric Co. 15.11 ENGIE SA 15.12 Fujitsu General Ltd. 15.13 Ingersoll Rand Inc. 15.14 J and J Air Conditioning 15.15 Johnson Controls International Plc 15.16 Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. 15.17 Service Logic 15.18 Siemens AG 16 Appendix 16.1 Scope of the report 16.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist 16.3 Currency conversion rates for US$ 16.4 Research methodology 16.5 Data procurement 16.6 Data validation 16.7 Validation techniques employed for market sizing 16.8 Data synthesis 16.9 360 degree market analysis 16.10 List of abbreviations For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gen22v 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. Seattle, Washington , Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HazardPros, a leading Washington-based biohazard remediation and hoarding cleanup company, has expanded its 24/7 service capacity across the Seattle metro area, delivering faster response times and increased availability for specialized services, including death cleanup, decomposition cleanup, crime and trauma scene cleanup, hoarding cleanup, and odor removal. This expansion enhances the companys ability to serve communities throughout Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, Tacoma, Federal Way, and surrounding areas. HazardPros Seattles trusted experts in biohazard and hoarding cleanup. With a reputation for compassionate and discreet service, HazardPros has been a trusted name in biohazard cleanup across Washington for years. The strengthened presence in Seattle is part of the companys ongoing commitment to meeting the growing need for professional and sensitive cleanup services in the region. Our expanded capacity in Seattle means we can provide quicker, more efficient responses to residents and businesses in urgent situations, said Michael Gossett, CEO of HazardPros. We remain dedicated to ensuring every client receives the highest level of care, safety, and professionalism. The increased resources mean HazardPros can now respond 24/7 to a broader range of clients, ensuring that emergencies are addressed promptly and effectively. This is especially critical for high-priority situations such as crime and trauma scenes, severe hoarding cases, and decomposition events. The teams trained professionals follow OSHA guidelines and state regulations, using advanced tools and techniques to ensure affected areas are fully sanitized, restored, and safe for occupancy. HazardPros expanded coverage includes Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Kent, Renton, Federal Way, and surrounding communities in King and Pierce Counties. This broader reach ensures more households, property managers, and business owners have immediate access to expert biohazard cleanup services. For immediate assistance or to learn more about HazardPros biohazard, trauma, and hoarding cleanup services in the Seattle area, visit https://www.hazardpros.com or call 206-476-7804 From chaos to clean: HazardPros restores a heavily cluttered kitchen into a spotless, safe living space. About HazardPros HazardPros provides professional biohazard and hoarding cleanup in Washington, offering compassionate, discreet, 24/7 service for homes, businesses, and emergency situations. Press inquiries HazardPros https://www.hazardpros.com/ Michael Gossett michaelgossett206@gmail.com Santa Cruz, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a transformative act of generosity, the Jean and E. Floyd Kvamme Foundation has committed $30 million to Sutter Health to establish a new, state-of-the-art cancer center in Santa Cruz. This historic gift, one of the largest philanthropic gifts in the communitys history, will serve as the cornerstone of a $50 million campaign to revolutionize cancer care and research for residents across Santa Cruz and the greater Monterey Bay Area. This extraordinary gift from the Kvamme Foundation will make a generational impact on healthcare and cancer care in Santa Cruz, said Warner Thomas, president and CEO of Sutter Health. We are honored to build on the Kvamme familys legacy of compassion and innovation, and to create a center that reflects the heart of this community. The forthcoming Jean and E. Floyd Kvamme Advanced Cancer Center, scheduled to open in 2030, will be located at 2260 Soquel Drive, the former site of Santa Cruzs popular flea market and Skyview Drive-Insymbols of the citys rich local culture. Now, this community landmark will take on a new life, offering hope and healing to thousands of people battling cancer. The Kvamme Foundation, based in Aptos and led by E. Floyd Kvamme, has a long-standing legacy of charitable giving across Northern California and beyond. For the Kvamme family, this donation is deeply personal. Jean Kvamme, a devoted mother, philanthropist and community member, courageously battled cancer and passed away in 2020 after more than 60 years of marriage to Floyd. The exceptional care she received made a lasting impression on the family and inspired this landmark gift. We are honored to make this commitment and investment in memory of Jean and in support of all families affected by cancer, said E. Floyd Kvamme of the Kvamme Foundation. We did not want to sit on the sidelines when we can be part of the solution. Our hope is that this center not only brings comfort and care to those in need but also helps accelerate the journey toward a cure. Jeans spirit will live on through every life touched by this facility. This gift from the Kvamme Foundation is a powerful testament to whats possible when philanthropy and purpose align, said Ken McNeely, chair of the Sutter Health Board of Directors. The new cancer center will not only elevate the standard of cancer care in Santa Cruzit will serve as a beacon of hope for families across the region. We are deeply grateful to the Kvamme family for their vision and generosity. The 44,000-square-foot Jean and E. Floyd Kvamme Advanced Cancer Center will unite cutting-edge servicesincluding radiation oncology, medical oncology, infusion therapy and advanced imaging to treat early- through late-stage cancersunder one roof. The Kvamme familys commitment to advancing cancer care is both humbling and inspiring, said Palo Alto Foundation Medical Groups Matthew F. Hansman, a surgeon based in Santa Cruz. When it opens, the Jean and E. Floyd Kvamme Advanced Cancer Center will allow us to deliver truly comprehensive, compassionate careright here at home. Its a milestone moment for our patients, clinicians and community. The Jean and E. Floyd Kvamme Advanced Cancer Center is part of Sutter Healths broader effort to expand cancer care access across Northern California, with additional centers planned in Santa Rosa, Modesto, Yuba City and the Silicon Valley and East Bay regions. Sutter Health is the largest healthcare system on the Central Coast. Today, approximately 115,000 patients from Santa Cruz County and surrounding areas rely on Sutter Healths integrated network of patient-centered primary and specialty care, which includes the nationally acclaimed Sutter Maternity & Surgery Center of Santa Cruz, a 30-bed acute care hospital, and Palo Alto Medical Foundation outpatient clinics and medical offices in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Soquel, Aptos, Capitola and Scotts Valley. Sutter Health is further enhancing access to care in the Santa Cruz area with the expansion of its Watsonville Care Center on Green Valley Road. The expanded Watsonville center will provide space for five additional primary care physicians as well as rotations for specialists in obstetrics, nursing and behavioral healthcare. About Sutter Health Sutter Health is a not-for-profit healthcare system dedicated to providing comprehensive care throughout California. Committed to advancing innovative patient care, healthy outcomes and community partnerships, Sutter Health is pursuing a bold new plan to reach more people and make excellent healthcare more connected and accessible. Currently serving more than 3.5 million patients, thanks to our dedicated team of more than 60,000 employees and clinicians, and 14,000+ affiliated physicians, with a unified focus on expanding care to serve more patients. Sutter delivers exceptional and affordable care through its hospitals, medical groups, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent care clinics, telehealth, home health, and hospice services. Dedicated to transforming healthcare, at Sutter Health, getting better never stops. Learn more about how Sutter Health is transforming healthcare at sutterhealth.org and vitals.sutterhealth.org. Attachment St. Petersburg, Fla., Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Raymond James recently welcomed a team of 16 financial advisors to Raymond James Financial Services (RJFS) the firms independent advisor channel according to Alex David, Northeast division director for RJFS. With offices in Morristown, New Jersey and West Palm Beach, Florida, Greenberg & Rapp and its Eagle Rock Wealth Management subsidiary are led by Founders and Principals Thomas C. Rapp, CLU, ChFC, AEP and Ronald J. Greenberg, CLU, AEP and Managing Partner Patrick Maguire. They are joined by 14 senior financial professionals: JP Bartolomeo, financial advisor T. Keith Brown, wealth advisor Bill Conroy, CLU, financial advisor Jordan Crowley, CFP , financial advisor , financial advisor Jonathan Crozier, wealth advisor Jake Greenberg, wealth manager Jack Grondin, wealth advisor Cole Koeniger, AIF , financial advisor , financial advisor Ryan Miscik, CFA, investment strategist Dennis Mojares, wealth advisor Ryan Pergola, CFP , wealth advisor , wealth advisor Michael Pfenninger, wealth advisor Brian Rapp, financial advisor Dante Zicarelli, wealth advisor The team arrives from M Financial Group where they collectively managed approximately $1.8 billion in client assets and are joined by more than 15 investment and branch professionals. Together, they provide personalized and comprehensive financial and estate planning services that address the unique needs of ultra-high-net-worth families. Greenberg & Rapp specializes in private placement life insurance and private placement variable annuities, sophisticated wealth management strategies that preserve and grow wealth through tax mitigation investment strategies using diverse, non-traditional investments. In our discussions with Raymond James, it became clear that they have the cutting-edge technology and home office support we need to focus our time on serving clients, said Ronald Greenberg. Were drawn to the unique culture and share a spirit of independence that gives us the freedom to do whats right for our clients and continue to grow our business. Greenberg has spent 37 years helping owners of closely held businesses and affluent individuals with exit planning and wealth preservation. He holds the Chartered Life Underwriter and Accredited Estate Planner credentials. We are truly impressed with the sophistication and expertise at Raymond James, said Thomas Rapp. Our ultra-high-net-worth clients require sophisticated solutions, and we have received unparalleled support throughout this transition that only confirms we made the right decision for our clients and our team. Rapp brings over 30 years of experience in alternative assets, estate planning, private business consulting, niche insurance and private wealth management. He holds the Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Financial Consultant and Accredited Estate Planner designations. We felt that this was the right fit for not only us as business owners, but for our people and our clients, said Maguire. In conjunction with Raymond James, we think that we can provide tailored advice while maintaining a culture of service where our clients are taken care of. With more than 20 years at Greenberg & Rapp, Maguire uses deep insurance and investment expertise to build estate planning, charitable giving and business wealth transfer strategies for clients. Its my pleasure to welcome the highly-experienced team of advisors and professionals at Greenberg & Rapp to Raymond James, said David. They offer clients bespoke strategies, distinctive investments and personalized service and were pleased to provide the advanced capabilities of the firms Private Wealth program for the benefit of their clients. About Raymond James Financial Services Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. (RJFS), member FINRA/SIPC, is a financial services firm supporting independent financial advisors nationwide. Since 1974, RJFS provides a wide range of investment and wealth planning-related services through its affiliate, Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. Both firms are wholly owned subsidiaries of Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE-RJF), one of the nations premier diversified financial services companies with financial advisors throughout the United States, Canada and overseas. Total client assets are approximately $1.64 trillion as of June 30, 2025. Additional information is available at raymondjames.com. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Greenberg & Rapp is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification marks CFP, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER, and CFP (with plaque design) in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. NOT FOR PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CANADA, JAPAN OR AUSTRALIA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE DISTRIBUTION OR RELEASE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL Mannedorf, Switzerland, August 14, 2025 Today, the Tecan Group (SIX Swiss Exchange: TECN) successfully raised CHF 150 million through the issuance of a fixed rate domestic straight bond. The bonds will be issued at 100.195%, with a coupon of 0.850% and a duration of 5 years (final maturity September 11, 2030). Settlement date of the bonds is September 11, 2025. The bonds will be listed and begin trading on the SIX Swiss Exchange on September 9, 2025 (ISIN CH1474857070). The net proceeds of the issue will be used for general corporate purposes, including the repayment of the outstanding CHF 250 million bond maturing in October 2025. The bonds were placed with institutional investors and private banks in Switzerland under the joint lead management of UBS Investment Bank and Zurcher Kantonalbank, with Bank J. Safra Sarasin acting as the Co-Lead Manager. About Tecan Tecan (www.tecan.com) improves peoples lives and health by empowering customers to scale healthcare innovation globally from life science to the clinic. Tecan is a pioneer and global leader in laboratory automation. As an original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Tecan is also a leader in developing and manufacturing OEM instruments, components and medical devices that are then distributed by partner companies. Founded in Switzerland in 1980, the company has more than 3,000 employees, with manufacturing, research and development sites in Europe, North America and Asia, and maintains a sales and service network in over 70 countries. In 2024, Tecan generated sales of CHF 934 million (USD 1,062 million; EUR 984 million). Registered shares of Tecan Group are traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange (TECN; ISIN CH0012100191). For further information: Tecan Group Martin Brandle Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications & IR Tel. +41 (0) 44 922 84 30 Fax +41 (0) 44 922 88 89 investor@tecan.com www.tecan.com Disclaimer This press release and the information contained herein may not be published, distributed or transmitted to the United States (USA) Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction into which the same would be unlawful, or given or transmitted to US persons (including legal entities) or to media with a general circulation in the USA. This bond will not be publicly offered for sale outside Switzerland. This media release does not constitute an offer to buy or subscribe for securities; it is neither an issue prospectus within the meaning of Article 35 FinSA nor a listing prospectus within the meaning of the SIX Swiss Exchange Listing Rules. Attachment VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lancaster Resources Inc. (CSE:LCR | OTCQ:LANRF | FRA:6UF0) (the Company or Lancaster) is pleased to announce the start of desk and field work at its 100%-owned Lake Cargelligo Gold Project in New South Wales, Australia. This initiative marks the first step toward completing the Companys maiden National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) Technical Report, a critical milestone in advancing the project. Strategically located in the prolific Lachlan Fold Belt, the 28,768-hectare Lake Cargelligo Project hosts multiple historical high-grade gold and silver occurrences. Initial field activities will include reconnaissance geological mapping and rock chip sampling aimed at refining exploration targets and laying the groundwork for a focused drill program. Commencing field work at Lake Cargelligo represents a pivotal moment for Lancaster, said Andrew Watson, President and CEO. Our maiden NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lake Cargelligo will be the foundation for systematic exploration, guiding our strategy toward resource definition and value creation for our shareholders. Historical work on the project has returned impressive results, including: Rock chip samples up to 204 g/t Au and 273 g/t Ag up to 204 g/t Au and 273 g/t Ag Channel sampling intercepts up to 16m @ 5.83 g/t Au and 7.20 g/t Ag While these historical results have not been verified by a Qualified Person, they underscore the projects potential and will be key focal points in the upcoming exploration program. The Company anticipates completing the Technical Report by August 31, 2025. Investor Relations Update Further to its August 6, 2025 announcement, Lancaster Resources Inc. confirms it has engaged Ora IR Services Inc. to provide investor relations support. Services will include customer service management, telephone and email support. Lancaster has granted Ora and its consultants an aggregate of 1,800,000 stock options, exercisable at $0.10 per share, and anticipates paying monthly cash compensation between $10,000 and $20,000. Geoff Skinner, the principal of Ora IR Services Inc., is a consultant to Lancaster. Contact information for Ora and Mr. Skinner is: PO Box 523, Cumberland, BC V0R 1S0; telephone 604-679-5295; email geoff.skinner@hotmail.com. The Company is awaiting confirmation from SIGEOM and the Quebec Ministry regarding the Lac Iris claims, which are currently Being Processed. Andrew Watson, P.Eng., President, CEO, and a Director of the Company, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Watson has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Mr. Watson is the President and Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Company and is not independent of the Company. About Lancaster Resources Inc. Lancaster is focused on building a portfolio of district-scale exploration assets positioned for future resource development. The Company holds a 100% interest in the Piney Lake Gold Project in Saskatchewan, uranium projects at Catley Lake and Centennial East in the Athabasca Basin, and the Lac Iris Polymetallic Project in Quebecs James Bay region, where it also holds an option to acquire the Trans-Taiga property. In Australia, Lancaster owns the Lake Cargelligo Gold Project in New South Wales, covering 28,768 hectares with over 25 km of prospective strike and three primary target zones. Andrew Watson, President & Chief Executive Officer, Lancaster Resources Inc. andrew@lancasterlithium.com Tel: 604 923 6100 www.lancaster-resources.com The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved, nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or Lancasters future performance. The use of any of the words could, 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 Lancasters current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, the ability of Lancaster to execute its exploration plans, raise capital, retain key personnel, identify, acquire, explore, and develop high-quality mineral-rich properties constitutes forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The statements made in this press release are made as of the date hereof. Lancaster 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, except as may be expressly required by applicable securities laws. _______________________________ Sources include: (1) Carpentaria Exploration Ltd., 2014 Annual Report for EL8095; (2) Aberfoyle Exploration Pty Ltd., First and Final Report for EL1770, June 1982; (3) Lachlan Resources N.L., First Six-Month Progress Report for EL2914; and (4) MinView database from the Geological Survey of NSW (https://www.resources.nsw.gov.au/geological-survey/minview). OKLAHOMA CITY, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Murphy Law Firm is investigating claims on behalf of all individuals whose personal and confidential information was compromised in the data breach involving American National Bank & Trust. To join the class action lawsuit, visit our site HERE. On or around January 22, 2025, American National Bank & Trust (American National Bank) became aware of suspicious activity on its computer systems, indicating a data breach. Based on a subsequent forensic investigation, American National Bank determined that cybercriminals infiltrated its inadequately secured computer network between January 21 and 22, 2025. The investigation further determined that, through this infiltration, cybercriminals accessed files containing the sensitive personal information of tens of thousands of individuals. The information exposed in the data breach includes, but is not limited to: Names Dates of birth Social Security numbers Financial account information Payment card information Tax identification numbers Drivers license or state identification card numbers Passport numbers Medical information If you received notice of the American National Bank & Trust data breach or if your personal information was compromised in the breach, please visit our site HERE. Murphy Law Firm is evaluating legal options, including a potential class action lawsuit, to recover damages on behalf of individuals who were affected by American National data breach. As a result of the data breach, these individuals personal and highly sensitive information may be in the hands of cybercriminals who can place the information for sale on the dark web or use the information to perpetrate identity theft. To join a class action lawsuit, click HERE Murphy Law Firm specializes in data breach class actions, consumer class actions, and federal securities class actions. The firm has extensive experience in securing highly favorable recoveries for its clients. Contact: Murphy Law Firm abm@murphylegalfirm.com MERIDIAN, Idaho, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PCS Edventures!, Inc. (PCSV), a leading provider of TK-12 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education programs, today announced results of operations for its first quarter of fiscal year 2026, which ended on June 30, 2025, and an update on its operations. First Quarter 2026 Overview: Revenue decreased 23.3% to $2.42 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 compared to the first quarter in the previous year. Gross margin increased 13 basis points to 63.4% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 compared to the first quarter in the previous year. Net income before income tax provision was $0.55 million in the first quarter versus $1.12 million in the previous year same quarter. Cash on hand increased 11.5% to $3.59 million versus the first quarter in the previous year. During the quarter, 100,000 shares were repurchased on the open market with the intent of being canceled. Subsequent to June 30, 2025, shares outstanding declined 3.1% as 3,736,170 shares were repurchased on the public market. Operational Update Federal funding of out-of-school-time programs remained uncertain during the quarter, negatively affecting demand in our market. Our focus on states with significant after-school and summer camp funding continued to show promise, and we will continue to prioritize states with substantial state-level out-of-school-time funds. Historically, PCS did not align products for classroom use because each state maintains its own standards, while out-of-school-time programs have broader standards. With the changing funding landscape, we have begun aligning select products to the standards of several larger states and collecting evidence of student outcomes. This work could materially expand our addressable market, and we will continue to adjust to evolving funding environments and customer needs. On July 1, 2025, the administration froze after-school and summer camp funding, including 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC). Given the coinciding weakness in our stock price, we repurchased 3,736,170 shares at an average price of $0.0991. In total, we have repurchased 4,132,979 shares completing 41% of our buyback announced in April. On July 18, 2025, the administration lifted the freeze allowing many out-of-school-time programs to continue for the coming year. Although next years budget could reduce or defund 21st CCLC, the bipartisan outcry during the freeze, and the recent Senate Appropriations Committees advancement of the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill, suggests strong bi-partisan resistance to sustained funding cuts in education, and we do not view the elimination of the 21st CCLC program as a likely outcome despite the administration vocalizing its desire to do so. Development of our next-generation indooroutdoor modular drone is nearly complete. We are finalizing curriculum and conducting significant testing before launch, with a pilot program scheduled in September. Responding to customer feedback, we believe this product can unlock meaningful demand in career and technical education (CTE), a market largely untouched by the recent federal funding debate. The Company may face further turbulence; however, we are positioned to weather near-term volatility and strengthen our competitive position. We look forward to sharing additional updates and invite shareholders to our annual meeting on September 26, our first since 2016. For more information about PCS Edventures!, Inc., visit our website. Company financial information and reports can be found at https://www.sec.gov About PCS Edventures!, Inc. PCS Edventures!, Inc. (OTCPK: PCSV) is a Meridian, Idaho company that designs and delivers technology-rich products and services for the TK-12 market that develop 21st-century skills. PCS programs emphasize experiential learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). https://edventures.com/. Forward-Looking Statements. This Press Release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time the statements are made and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements in this Press Release. This Press Release should be considered in light of the disclosures contained in the filings of PCS and its forward-looking statements in such filings that are contained in the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) Edgar Archives at https://www.sec.gov. Contact. Investor Contact: Michael Bledsoe 1.800.429.3110, mikeb@edventures.com Investor Relations Web Site: https://investors.edventures.com/ RADNOR, Pa., Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The law firm of Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP (www.ktmc.com) informs investors that securities class action lawsuits have been filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (Hims & Hers) (NYSE: HIMS) on behalf of those who purchased or otherwise acquired Hims & Hers securities between April 29, 2025, and June 23, 2025, inclusive (the Class Period). The lead plaintiff deadline is August 25, 2025. CONTACT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP: If you suffered Hims & Hers losses, you may CLICK HERE or copy and paste the following link into your browser: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/hims-hers-health-inc?utm_source=Globe&utm_medium=PR You can also contact attorney Jonathan Naji, Esq. by calling (484) 270-1453 or by email at info@ktmc.com. DEFENDANTS ALLEGED MISCONDUCT: The complaints allege that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the companys business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Hims & Hers was engaged in the deceptive promotion and selling of illegitimate, knockoff versions of Wegovy that put patient safety at risk; (2) as a result, there was a substantial risk that Hims & Hers collaboration with Novo Nordisk would be terminated; and (3) that, as a result of the foregoing, Defendants positive statements about the companys business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. Please CLICK HERE to view our video or copy and paste this link into your browser: https://youtu.be/xuStgUOFgE8 THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: Hims & Hers investors may, no later than August 25, 2025, seek to be appointed as a lead plaintiff representative of the class through Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP or other counsel, or may choose to do nothing and remain an absent class member. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of all class members in directing the litigation. The lead plaintiff is usually the investor or small group of investors who have the largest financial interest and who are also adequate and typical of the proposed class of investors. The lead plaintiff selects counsel to represent the lead plaintiff and the class and these attorneys, if approved by the court, are lead or class counsel. Your ability to share in any recovery is not affected by the decision of whether or not to serve as a lead plaintiff. Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP encourages Hims & Hers investors who have suffered significant losses to contact the firm directly to acquire more information. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE CASE OR GO TO: https://www.ktmc.com/new-cases/hims-hers-health-inc?utm_source=Globe&utm_medium=PR ABOUT KESSLER TOPAZ MELTZER & CHECK, LLP: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP prosecutes class actions in state and federal courts throughout the country and around the world. The firm has developed a global reputation for excellence and has recovered billions of dollars for victims of fraud and other corporate misconduct. All of our work is driven by a common goal: to protect investors, consumers, employees and others from fraud, abuse, misconduct and negligence by businesses and fiduciaries. The complaint in this action was not filed by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP. For more information about Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP please visit www.ktmc.com. CONTACT: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Jonathan Naji, Esq. (484) 270-1453 280 King of Prussia Road Radnor, PA 19087 info@ktmc.com May be considered attorney advertising in certain jurisdictions. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Renowned financier and entrepreneur Joseph Schnaier officially announces the launch of the Joseph Schnaier Scholarship for Finance Students, a nationwide initiative aimed at supporting undergraduate students with a clear vision for impacting the finance sector. With a longstanding commitment to academic advancement and financial education, Joseph Schnaier introduces this opportunity to identify and assist aspiring professionals who are dedicated to shaping the future of finance through innovation, integrity, and leadership. The Joseph Schnaier Scholarship for Finance Students invites current undergraduate students enrolled at accredited colleges or universities across the United States to submit a thoughtful, original essay in response to the following prompt: What inspires you to pursue a career in finance, and how do you plan to make a meaningful impact in the financial world? The submission window is currently open, and the application deadline is January 15, 2026. The winning applicant will be announced on February 15, 2026, following a thorough review of all submissions. To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must be undergraduate students pursuing degrees in finance, business, economics, accounting, or closely related disciplines. They must also demonstrate genuine interest in a long-term career within the finance industry. Submissions must be written in English and range from 500 to 800 words. Essays are to be submitted in PDF or Word document format. Joseph Schnaier, who has over 25 years of experience in private equity and investment, created this scholarship to encourage emerging talent and reduce the financial burden faced by dedicated students in the field. A respected figure on Wall Street since 1996, Joseph Schnaier has held prominent executive positions and co-founded successful ventures such as Friedman Schnaier & Associates and DOD Marketing Corp. His work spans a range of strategic investment areas, including private equity buyouts, rollups, and growth equity. In launching this scholarship, Joseph Schnaier continues his philanthropic mission to uplift the next generation of finance professionals. The program aligns with his broader vision of fostering a financially literate, ethically driven, and forward-thinking talent pool that will carry the industry forward. While the scholarship is based in New York, NY, it is not geographically limited. Undergraduate students from across the United States are encouraged to apply, regardless of their state or institution. Applicants are expected to reflect on their personal motivations, professional aspirations, and potential contributions to the evolving financial landscape. Joseph Schnaier emphasizes the importance of authenticity, clarity of purpose, and strategic thinkingqualities that have shaped his own career and continue to drive his support for student advancement. More details about the scholarship, including eligibility criteria and application instructions, can be found on the official website: https://josephschnaierscholarship.com/ https://josephschnaierscholarship.com/joseph-schnaier-scholarship/ Contact Information Spokesperson: Joseph Schnaier Organization: Joseph Schnaier Scholarship for Finance Students Website: https://josephschnaierscholarship.com/ Email: apply@josephschnaierscholarship.com A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c4d550a1-8af1-45c2-92a0-492e8c5048a2 LOS ANGELES, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Search.com has fired the next shot in Silicon Valleys biggest acquisition war, outbidding Perplexitys $34.5 billion Chrome offer with a knockout $35 billion counter-proposal backed by JP Morgan. As AI advances at an unprecedented pace, its essential to make its benefits accessible to allwhile steadfastly upholding ethical principles, said Melissa Anderson, President, Public Good. At Public Good, and now with our newly launched gen AI platform, Search.com, we have consistently championed innovation and fairness, ensuring consumers are always at the heart of progress. The Stakes: With Chrome commanding 65% of global browser traffic, embedding AI must be equitable and this could determine the future of how 3 billion people access information. The Twist: Search.com promises something revolutionary: actual cash back for users, revenue sharing for publishers, and an end to the ad-cluttered web experience thats suffocated the internet for decades. The Clock Is Ticking: With the Department of Justices antitrust policy poised to force Googles hand, this billion-dollar chess match could reshape the entire internet by Christmas. Game on. About Public Good.com LLC Public Good delivers innovative, equitable AI solutions that empower people, publishers, and brands. Leveraging advanced AI-driven contextual targeting, Public Good enables global advertisers and publishers to engage people in moments of motivation that build consumer engagement, foster loyalty, and drive sales. As a proud member of the Ad.com family, Public Good is supported by a global team of over 250 professionals across the USA, UK, India, and Dubai, serving many of the worlds leading brands and publishers. For more information, contact: Melissa Kennedy Bob Gold & Associates Search@bobgoldpr.com C. 610-635-8427 (text) O. 310-320-2010 x1006 NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Order.co, a leading AI-powered procurement platform , is proud to announce that it has earned a spot in Inc.s annual list of the 5000 fastest-growing private companies in America for the third time. Order.cos dedication to simplifying buying for businesses through its B2B Ecommerce shopping experience and AI tooling earned it No. 1,804 on the list. The companys rapid growth is fueled by continued investment in AI innovation and a relentless focus on improving the purchasing experience for customers. Notably Order.cos AI sourcing delivers cost-effective product recommendations from its extensive network of reliable vendors, saving customers an average of 5% on purchases. Additionally, Order.cos tracking AI sends customers a consolidated view of their order statuses and shipment tracking information in one email per day, eliminating guesswork in the fulfillment process. Were honored to be included on the Inc. 5000 list, said Zach Garippa, CEO and Co-Founder of Order.co. From the beginning, we believed that the complex world of B2B purchasing desperately needed the ease and simplicity of B2C Ecommerce, and the growth weve experienced since then affirmed our vision. Were proud of how far weve come, and even more excited about whats ahead as we continue to leverage AI that helps our customers operate with greater clarity, control, and confidence. Order.cos recognition comes as part of a broader celebration of entrepreneurial excellence and impact. The 2025 honorees represent the most dynamic and resilient private companies, collectively contributing over 48,000 jobs to the U.S. economy. Past winners include Microsoft, Meta, Chobani, Under Armour, and Patagonia placing Order.co amongst a group of industry-shaping brands. Making the Inc. 5000 is always a remarkable achievement, but earning a spot this year speaks volumes about a companys 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 didnt just weather the storm they grew through it, and their stories are a powerful reminder that the entrepreneurial spirit is the engine of the U.S. economy. For the full list, company profiles, and a searchable database by industry and location, visit: www.inc.com/inc5000 . About Order.co Order.co is an AI-powered procurement software that simplifies business buying by combining the ease of online shopping with the sophistication of world-class purchase order and AP automation. The result? Businesses cut costs and complexity with every order. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in New York City, Order.co has raised $70M in funding from industry-leading investors like MIT, Stage 2 Capital, Rally Ventures, 645 Ventures, and more. Hundreds of companies, like WeWork and Hugo Boss, leverage Order.co to centralize purchase-to-pay workflows, scale operations, and gain total control over spending saving an average of 5% on products. To learn more, visit order.co . 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 Allison Reich Senior Manager of Brand, Content & Enablement Allison.reich@order.co Riyadh, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, celebrated launching three direct weekly flights between Riyadh and Moscow as of the first of August, starting a new chapter in air connectivity, and becoming the first carrier to operate scheduled direct flights between Saudi Arabia and Russia, in collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority, and within flynas growth and expansion plan and parallel with the national objectives in the tourism and aviation sectors in the Kingdom. Inauguration ceremonies were held at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow on Friday, August 1. The ceremonies were attended by Abdulrahman Al-Ahmad, the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Russia, and representatives from flynas, Riyadh Airports Company, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and media members. Travelling guests were welcomed with gifts and giveaways. Adding Moscow to flynas ever-expanding network of destinations and routes is in line with flynas growth and expansion plan, launched under the title We Connect the World to the Kingdom, in parallel with the objectives of the National Civil Aviation Strategy to enable national air carriers to contribute to connecting KSA with 250 International destinations and to accommodate 330 million passengers and to attract 150 million tourists yearly by 2030, and with the objectives of the Pilgrims Experience Program (PEP) to facilitate access to the Two Holy Mosques. flynas, the leading low-cost airline in the world and the best LCC in the Middle East, and the first airline listed on the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul) operates 139 routes to more than 70 domestic and international destinations in 30 countries with more than 2000 weekly flights and has flown more than 80 million passengers since its launch in 2007, with the aim to reach 165 domestic and international destinations within its growth and expansion plan, and in line with the objectives of Vision 2030. Passengers traveling with flynas can book their flights through all flynas booking channels: www.flynas.com, the flynas app, the call centre (920001234), or travel agents. Deerfield, Illinois, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DEERFIELD, IL, August 14, 2025 Vantages breakthrough OptiReleaseTM portfolio of next generation release agents for commercial bakeries has been recognized with two Best in Baking Awards ahead of the 2025 International Baking Industry Expo (IBIE). IBIE takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada September 14-17. The OptiRelease portfolio was recognized in the sustainability and plant efficiency categories. For more than 40 years, weve worked side-by-side with our customers, listening to their challenges, understanding their processes, and applying fresh thinking to move beyond the limitations of current release technologies used in food, said Jan Tinge, Executive Vice President, Vantage Food. The OptiRelease portfolio is a direct result of that collaboration. Engineered for peak commercial bakery performance, it redefines release agents by enhancing product quality and operational efficiency, by reducing time and energy cost, and, for the first time, delivering tailored solutions for cake, bread, and pizza production that meet the unique demands of each application. The innovative, next generation release agent solutions deliver superior performance in even the most demanding conditions. When OptiRelease is combined with the Mallet brand of custom-built precision spray equipment incorporating the patented PosiSprayTM smart spray and detection technology, this full-service solution optimizes commercial bakery production efficiency even further through precise application of the release agent blend and identifying mis-sprays in real time to enhance throughput for mid- and large-scale commercial bakeries globally. OptiRelease Portfolio of Release Agents Release agents play a key role in production efficiency and sustainable food manufacturing operations. With an eye to creating more sustainable food operations, OptiRelease solutions enable operations to run smoothly on the fewest resources needed. Increased Consumer Satisfaction: With four times the release strength of canola oil[1], OptiRelease results in improved customer satisfaction with improved product quality yields avoiding waste caused by torn or frayed products. With four times the release strength of canola oil[1], OptiRelease results in improved customer satisfaction with improved product quality yields avoiding waste caused by torn or frayed products. Decreased Pan Utilization: OptiRelease reduces polymerized and general residue left behind after depanning resulting in decreased wash cycle time and water usage. In turn, this results in less frequent pan reglazing and replacement. OptiRelease reduces polymerized and general residue left behind after depanning resulting in decreased wash cycle time and water usage. In turn, this results in less frequent pan reglazing and replacement. Secure Supply: The OptiRelease portfolio is produced in the U.S. and features a balanced formulation that eliminates or reduces supply-challenged materials without compromising on performance. Supports Reduced Environmental Footprint: With reduced water usage and a domestic manufacturing footprint, these solutions can also contribute to lowering Scope 3 Category 4 emissions (upstream transportation and distribution) by minimizing international freight and associated transport-related greenhouse gas emissions. The OptiRelease portfolio of release agents and Mallet-brand precision spray equipment will be featured at International Baking Industry Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center from September 14-17 Booth 2416 in the West Hall. If you would like to speak to a Vantage representative or arrange a meeting at the show, please reach out to info@vantagefood.com. About Vantage Food Vantage Food is a recognized market leader offering a comprehensive portfolio of food process aid technology solutions including best-in-class release agents, custom-built processing equipment and functional food ingredients for targeted applications (Bread | Baked Goods | Pizza | Cereal and other Food processing segments) that help our customers achieve production efficiencies and enhanced product quality. As part of our broader natural solutions portfolio, Vantage supports our customers technical performance and marketing needs through a unique combination of ingredient formulation and application expertise and service built on a backbone of sustainable oils, fats and their derivatives, Vantage targets selected markets and applications including personal care, food, surface treatment, agriculture, pharma, and consumer and industrial performance. Vantage is headquartered in Deerfield, IL, operates in 11 countries worldwide and employs approximately 1,000 talented professionals focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences with every interaction. Learn more at vantagefood.com TM * indicates a registered mark or trademark of Vantage Specialty Chemicals, Inc., or its affiliates. [1] Vantage in-house test methods NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Adtelligent Inc., a global advertising technology company, has been recognized as the Best Overall OTT Solution Provider in the prestigious MarTech Breakthrough Awards 2025. This award highlights Adtelligents innovation and leadership in delivering robust, scalable, and privacy-first OTT advertising solutions that help publishers and media owners maximize their revenue and audience engagement. Now in its 8th year, the MarTech Breakthrough Awards program is conducted by MarTech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence organization that honors standout companies, technologies, and products across the global marketing, sales, and advertising technology landscape. The 2025 program saw over 4,000 nominations from more than 18 countries, underscoring the competitive nature of the awards and the caliber of entries received. Adtelligent joins a distinguished list of this years winners, including global industry leaders such as Adobe, HubSpot, Sprout Social, Cision, ZoomInfo, Optimizely, and Verizon, cementing its position among the most impactful martech innovators worldwide. Receiving this recognition from MarTech Breakthrough is a proud moment for our team, said Yuriy Gorokhov, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at Adtelligent. It validates our commitment to building future-ready adtech infrastructure that empowers publishers in the growing OTT ecosystem. About Adtelligent Inc. Adtelligent Inc. is a global advertising technology company offering in-house solutions that help online media companies, digital sales houses, and ad networks effectively monetize web, app, and digital TV inventory. Supporting the full ad ecosystem, Adtelligent provides tools to manage SSP and DSP partnerships, along with a Retail Media Ad Server, Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI) Server, and solutions for DOOH advertising. The platform also integrates telecom operator data via secure data clean rooms, enabling privacy-first, data-driven targeting. Adtelligent unique business approach delivers cutting-edge advertising technologies to more than 50,000 publishers globally, helping them facilitate revenue growth and capitalize on the digital advertising market. About MarTech Breakthrough Part of Tech Breakthrough, a leading market intelligence and recognition platform for global technology innovation and leadership, the MarTech Breakthrough Awards program is devoted to honoring excellence in marketing, ad and sales technology companies, products and people. The MarTech Breakthrough Awards provide a platform for public recognition around the achievements of breakthrough marketing technology companies and products in categories including marketing automation, AdTech, SalesTech, marketing analytics, performance marketing, CRM, content and social marketing, website, SEM, mobile marketing and more. Sacramento, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Golden Goose Marketing is excited to announce the launch of its latest marketing servicethe AI-Enhanced Customer Engagement Tool. This new tool is aimed at supporting contractors, construction companies, and service-based businesses in improving how they interact with customers and deliver services. It highlights Golden Goose Marketing's dedication to coming up with new solutions that help businesses grow. The AI-Enhanced Customer Engagement Tool uses advanced artificial intelligence to make customer interactions smoother. It offers real-time chat support and automated answers to questions. This tool adds to the range of services that Golden Goose Marketing already provides, like Local SEO, Search Engine Optimization, and Lead Generation. Anthony Bernard, CEO of Golden Goose Marketing, highlights the tool's importance for today's businesses. "In today's fast-paced digital world, it's all about enhancing the customer experience," says Bernard. "Our new AI tool is designed to not only address client inquiries swiftly but also to anticipate their needs by learning from previous interactions. This not only improves communication efficiency but also builds stronger, long-lasting relationships with customers." Golden Goose Marketing continues to be a leader in using the latest technologies in its services. By smartly using AI technology, the company wants to set a new benchmark in customer engagement for service businesses. This commitment matches their history of delivering concrete results for their clients. Besides the AI-Enhanced Customer Engagement Tool, the Golden Goose Marketing Agency offers comprehensive marketing services. This includes Local SEO, which helps improve a business's presence in local search results. The Local SEO service ensures businesses can dominate local searches and Google's "Map Pack", enhancing visibility and customer reach. Meanwhile, Golden Goose Marketing SEO focuses on bettering website rankings through well-planned keyword use and content creation. The company's wide range of services cater to various industries' specific needs. With experience in fields like contractor marketing and window cleaning marketing, Golden Goose Marketing makes sure its clients get strategies that tackle unique challenges and opportunities in their markets. They also provide a suite of services like PPC Management, Social Media Advertising, and Website Development to fully support their clients. Golden Goose Marketing understands how important it is to keep up with the changing digital world and always looks to adapt its strategies to meet new industry needs. This includes their Database Reactivation service, which re-engages past customers to encourage repeat business and referrals. Its focus on innovation shows in its different services, now including an AI chat solution to interact more effectively with users and turn them into leads. Beyond service offerings, the company provides a free ROI Blueprint, giving clients a custom data-backed growth plan to help them expand in their market environment. This focus on custom growth strategies shows the company's commitment to client success. Businesses interested in exploring more can take advantage of their free discovery call offering available on their website, as well. "Our focus has always been on helping businesses not just compete, but thrive," Bernard added. "With tools like the AI-Enhanced Customer Engagement, we aim to deliver value that extends beyond typical service parameters, ultimately driving growth in both revenue and reputation for our clients." Golden Goose Marketing stands out not just for its broad array of marketing solutions but also for its strong commitment to client service. This is delivered through a mix of technological advances and personalized strategy. The recent introduction of the AI-Enhanced Customer Engagement Tool shows the company's pledge to improve its service to align with current business expectations. As the company keeps introducing advanced solutions to improve client outcomes, it continues to build its reputation as a reliable partner in business growth. Through strategic updates, Golden Goose Marketing Agency reinforces its role in helping businesses achieve ongoing success in today's competitive markets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBL46fCG7U0 By continually adding new tools and services, Golden Goose Marketing reassures clients of its commitment to changing with industry needs. This proactive approach places the company as a leader in the marketing field, focused on creating an environment of growth and innovation. ### For more information about Golden Goose Marketing, contact the company here: Golden Goose Marketing Anthony Bernard (916) 619-0819 milana@thegoldgoose.com 225 30th St #306, Sacramento, CA 95816 Fleming Island, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bryan's Sod Installation and Landscaping has announced it will keep working to improve outdoor spaces in the area. They provide sod installation, lawn care, and landscaping services that aim to enhance both the look and functionality of homes and businesses. Each service is tailored to fit the specific needs of clients while keeping sustainability and aesthetics in mind. Because they operate in Northeast Florida serving the Duval County, Clay County and St. Johns County areas, Bryan's Sod Installation and Landscaping carefully chooses plants and sod that will thrive in the local climate. A key part of their success is how much they care about making customers happy. Building strong client relationships through dependable and quality service is very important to the company. This reliability shines through in Bryan's Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping reviews. Customers often mention their professionalism and focus on details. Many clients appreciate their thoroughness in each project, making sure every job, big or small, is handled with the same care and precision. Bryans Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping in Clay County has earned the trust of locals. The company's experience with different terrains and soil types gives them a special insight into landscaping in the region. Their understanding of local rules and environmental needs allows them to give smart advice and services. With years of industry experience, the team at Bryans Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping in Clay County can tackle complex landscaping challenges while keeping sustainability in mind. Damion Bryan the CEO of Bryan's Sod Installation and Landscaping highlights the team's commitment to making outdoor spaces better for their clients. "Our objective is to deliver services that not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute to environmental health," the CEO explains. By using native plants and sustainable methods, they aim to create landscapes that are easy to maintain and support local biodiversity. Mr. Bryan continues to say "Bryans Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping continues to earn high praise from customers across the region. The company's commitment to quality and service is reflected in its online reputation, including a perfect 5-star rating based on 170 reviews on its Google Business Profile and a 4.9-star rating on Facebook from 30 customer reviews. We credits these accolades to the dedication of the entire team and the strong relationships they've built with local homeowners and businesses." Bryan's Sod Installation & Landscaping also focuses on developing their team's skills. Employees are encouraged to stay updated with industry trends through ongoing education. This ensures clients get the most innovative solutions for their landscaping needs. The team's deep knowledge and skills mean projects are completed on time and within budget, keeping client satisfaction high. The company has grown by being transparent with their project management. Clients are involved in planning and execution, sharing their ideas to shape the final outcome to their liking. This teamwork boosts the quality of work and strengthens client trust and satisfaction, as seen in many Bryan's Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping reviews. In the future, Bryan's Sod Installation and Landscaping plans to expand across Northeast Florida. This growth will make their services more available to more people and show their dedication to sustainable landscaping. As they expand, they plan to stay focused on being environmentally responsible, creating outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and eco-friendly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP_3fNDN8Ns To wrap things up, Bryan's Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping in Clay County, Florida has established itself as an industry leader in lawn care and landscaping in Northeast Florida. Their commitment to quality service, customer satisfaction, and environmental care makes them stand out. With a solid presence in Clay County, Bryans Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping in Clay County continues to be a reliable provider of complete lawn care solutions. By building long-term relationships with clients and communities, the company plays a key role in improving the environmental and aesthetic aspects of properties across the state. Discover more about their comprehensive lawn care solutions on their official website. ### For more information about Bryan's Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping, contact the company here: Bryan's Sod Installation Lawn Care and Landscaping Damion Bryan (904) 708-8417 hello@bryanssodandlandscaping.com 2015 County Rd 220, Fleming Island, FL 32003 Investors can contact the law firm at no cost to learn more about recovering their losses LOS ANGELES, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises KinderCare Learning Companies, Inc. ("KinderCare e" or the "Company") (NYSE: KLC) investors of a class action representing investors that bought securities pursuant to and/or traceable to KinderCares initial public offering (IPO) conducted in October 2024 (the "Class Period"). KinderCare investors have until October 14, 2025 to file a lead plaintiff motion. Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portnoy, by phone 310-692-8883 or email: lesley@portnoylaw.com, to discuss their legal rights, or click here to join the case. The Portnoy Law Firm can provide a complimentary case evaluation and discuss investors options for pursuing claims to recover their losses. CASE ALLEGATIONS: KinderCare provides early education and child care services in the United States. In its initial public offering, KinderCare sold over 27 million shares of common stock to investors at $24 per share, generating approximately $648 million in gross 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 and, in many instances, failed to provide even basic care, meet industry minimum standards, or comply with applicable laws and regulations governing child care; and (iii) as a result, KinderCare was exposed to a material, undisclosed risk of lawsuits, regulatory actions, negative publicity, reputational harm, and business losses. Since the IPO, the price of KinderCare stock has declined to lows near $9 per share. Please visit our website to review more information and submit your transaction information. The Portnoy Law Firm represents investors in pursuing claims against caused by corporate wrongdoing. The Firms founding partner has recovered over $5.5 billion for aggrieved investors. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Lesley F. Portnoy, Esq. Admitted CA and NY Bar lesley@portnoylaw.com 310-692-8883 www.portnoylaw.com Attorney Advertising SAN DIEGO, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), a leading provider of AI-driven analytics and enterprise solutions for the gaming and hospitality industry, today announced the addition of Chris Barranco as Director of Business Development. Barranco brings 25 years of experience leading high-performing teams, driving revenue, and building durable client relationships. He is adept at solution-selling methodology and full sales-cycle management, with a proven track record of mentoring top-tier account executives, delivering high-impact presentations, and retaining key accounts. Known for a tenacious approach to new-business development and customer loyalty, Barranco will focus on expanding QCIs market footprint, strengthening the partner ecosystem, and advancing go-to-market execution across QCIs product portfolio. Im excited to join the clear market leader and work with the exceptional team at QCI, said Chris Barranco, Director of Business Development at QCI. QCIs commitment to turning data into action aligns perfectly with my approach to helping customers achieve measurable revenue impact. I look forward to working closely with our clients and partners to accelerate growth and deliver exceptional outcomes. Were delighted to welcome an industry veteran of Chriss caliber to the QCI team, said Andrew Cardno, CTO and Co-Founder of QCI. His leadership, mastery of solution selling, and passion for customer success will further strengthen our ability to scale, deepen client relationships, and deliver the operational results our customers expect. As Director of Business Development, Barranco will lead initiatives to expand QCIs presence across key markets, refine sales enablement programs, and collaborate with product and customer success teams to ensure a seamless path from discovery to measurable value realization. ABOUT QCI Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI Enterprise Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 300 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $42 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI's data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Denver, and Phoenix. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com. ABOUT Andrew Cardno Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master's level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew's innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today's mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industriesbe it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSDAndrew's impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew's work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors. Contact: Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence Phone: 858-349-8354 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b66e5d16-2075-431c-a495-1fbd679492d6 Cleveland, Ohio, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Range Impact, Inc. (OTCQB: RNGE) (Range Impact or the Company), a public impact investing company dedicated to acquiring, reclaiming and repurposing mine sites in Appalachia, reports its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. Range Impacts Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 14, 2025 and is available for viewing at https://rangeimpact.com/investors/. Since the information provided in this press release is limited to selected financial and operational information, shareholders and interested parties are encouraged to read the Companys full Form 10-Q available on its website. Michael Cavanaugh, Range Impacts CEO, states, Our second quarter results highlight the continued execution of our strategy to build multiple streams of recurring revenue, reduce fixed costs and debt, and use available cash to actively reclaim the Fola Mine Complex acquired earlier in the year. Cavanaugh added, During the quarter, our team accomplished several important initial goals tied to the repurposing of the Fola Mine Complex, and we believe significant momentum is being built to achieve our long-term goal of converting this once abandoned mine site into a mixed-use complex with multiple sources of revenue and good paying jobs for the community. Business and Financial Highlights of the 2025 Second Quarter Sold three non-core mining permits at the Fola Mine Complex to a third-party purchaser, which reduced the Companys reclamation obligations by $1,244,560 and generated a transaction advisory fee of $800,000 for a total value to the Company of over $2.0 million Acquired two additional mining permits at the Fola Mine Complex and assumed an associated coal royalty agreement with a well-capitalized and experienced mining operator, which is expected to result in several years of additional surface mining and royalty payments Finalized the execution and assignment to the Company of a new underground metallurgical coal royalty agreement with a large public coal company at the Fola Mine Complex, which is expected to result in several years of additional underground mining and royalty payments Continued to make progress with our development partner on our large solar project at the Fola Mine Complex, which is expected to generate a minimum of 25 years of lease revenue beginning in the next few years Generated Gross Profit of $508,322, which was $504,471 higher than 1Q 2025 and $657,251 higher than 2Q 2024 due to new royalty income, cost reductions, and the transaction advisory fee recorded in 2Q 2025 Divested and returned numerous pieces of non-core equipment and repaid debt of $355,653 resulting in total debt paydowns of $722,143 for the year-to-date period Continued to streamline the Companys operations to maximize the amount of free cash flow that can be allocated to reclamation and repurposing efforts at the Fola Mine Complex About Range Impact, Inc. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Range Impact is a public company (OTC: RNGE) dedicated to improving the health and wellness of people and the planet through a novel and innovative approach to impact investing. Range Impact owns and operates several complementary operating businesses focused on developing long-term solutions to environmental, social, and health challenges, with a particular focus on acquiring, reclaiming and repurposing mine sites and other undervalued land in economically disadvantaged communities throughout Appalachia. Range Impact takes an opportunistic approach to impact investing by leveraging its competitive advantages and looking at solving old problems in new ways. Range Impact seeks to thoughtfully allocate its capital into strategic opportunities that are expected to make a positive impact on the people-planet ecosystem and generate strong investment returns for its shareholders. Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in Section 27(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Although we believe that these statements are based on reasonable assumptions, they are subject to numerous factors that could cause actual outcomes and results to be materially different from those indicated in such statements. Such factors include, among others, the inherent uncertainties associated with new projects, changes in business strategy and new lines of business. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that any beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. Investors should consult all of the information set forth herein and should also refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in our annual report on Form 10-K for the most recent fiscal year, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Range Impact, Inc. Investor Relations P: +1 (216) 304-6556 E: ir@rangeimpact.com W: www.rangeimpact.com LOS ANGELES, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Daily Journal Corporation is issuing this press release to provide additional public access to the Form 8-K it filed earlier today with the Securities and Exchange Commission in response to the continued interest in our software accounting from Buxton Helmsley USA, Inc. and its Chairman and CEO, Alexander E. Parker. Below is the text of our Form 8-K. Item 8.01 Other Events. In July, the Company started receiving letters from an investment adviser called Buxton Helmsley USA, Inc. (BuHeUI) alleging that the Company has been improperly expensing its software development costs and should be capitalizing them under the accounting requirements set forth in ASC 985-20, Costs of Software to be Sold, Leased or Marketed (ASC 985-20). According to BuHeUI and its Chairman and CEO, Alexander E. Parker, switching from expensing development costs to capitalizing them would unlock value for Company shareholders, and he demanded a 15% share in the appreciation of the Companys stock price as compensation for his idea. He pointed to Tyler Technologies and Galaxy Gaming as proof that other software companies properly comply with ASC 985-20 by capitalizing their development costs. Simply stated, Mr. Parker got it wrong. Following receipt of his initial letters, the Audit Committee of the Board re-reviewed the applicable accounting guidance and the Companys practices with its accountants and with third party experts. All agree that the Company has been correctly accounting for its software development costs in accordance with ASC 950-20. To understand Mr. Parkers mistake requires a brief explanation of the relevant accounting standards. Historically, most software companies accounted for development costs under ASC 985-20, which establishes the requirements a company must meet to capitalize those costs when associated with software to be sold or licensed to a third party. A company is only allowed to capitalize costs incurred during the period after the technological feasibility of the software has been established and prior to its general release. Ironically, one of the main accounting concerns in the past had been that companies would capitalize too much and too soon, because it helped improve their short-term earnings by reducing expenses and moving them to the balance sheet (or, as Mr. Parker might say, unlocking value). Moreover, the process of software development has substantially evolved at many companies since the initial ASC 985-20 guidance was issued, with most companies now applying an agile software development methodology that emphasizes iterative development in a continually changing environment. This results in the capitalization window between technological feasibility and general release to be so short that few companies incur any material amount of costs that would qualify for capitalization. The Companys software products and our agile development efforts are in that camp. In addition, with the growing popularity of software-as-a-service (or SaaS), companies that make predominately SaaS software take the position that their software is being developed for internal use because their customers are purchasing access to a hosted product, rather than actually receiving the software. This is important because internal use software is accounted for under an entirely different accounting standard : ASC 350-40, Internal Use Software (ASC 350-40). You should expect to see more capitalized costs for a SaaS company taking this position because ASC 350-40 provides that eligible costs can be capitalized over a typically much longer development window compared to the short window for external use software (like ours) under ASC 985-20. Neither Galaxy Gaming nor Tyler Technologies expressly states in its public filings which accounting guidance it used to capitalize costs, and we suspect Mr. Parker simply assumed it was ASC 985-20. He appears to have been mistaken. Galaxy refers in its 10-K to internally developed software in its consolidated statements of cash flows, and Tyler refers in its 10-K to the amortization of software development for internal use in its G&A expenses. This means, in both cases, that they are likely capitalizing costs for internal use software under ASC 350-40 not ASC 985-20. And, yes, the Company does offer some SaaS enhancements to our eSeries products, but the Company would not qualify for ASC 350-40 treatment because the vast majority of our software continues to be licensed to customers (almost entirely courts and government agencies) to whom we deliver the software, with those customers arranging for hosting based on their own security and operational needs. Lest there be any doubt, the Company has and will continue to expense development costs when that is the proper thing to do, and it will capitalize any such costs in the future when that is the proper thing to do. It will also disclose any specific R&D costs separate and apart from other expenses, if material. Mr. Parker may never admit that he was wrong or that he simply misunderstood why other software companies are capitalizing development costs, given that they appear to be using a completely different accounting standard than the one cited in each of his nine letters so far. At a minimum, he should be embarrassed for demanding compensation from the Company, alleging securities law violations, calling for the resignations of the CEO and CFO, insisting on being given two Board seats, reporting the Company to the enforcement division of the SEC, referring the Companys auditor to the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, alleging wild conflicts of interest by our directors, and falsely claiming defamation all based on a mistake. Mr. Munger once offered some sage advice that may be useful for Mr. Parker, who is currently advertising on his website for new investors to entrust their money with him and his approach: Theres no way that you can live an adequate life without many mistakes. In fact, one trick in life is to get so you can handle mistakes. Failure to handle psychological denial is a common way for people to go broke. On behalf of its shareholders, the Company calls on Mr. Parker to do the right thing and end his misplaced, self-serving attacks on the Company and its people, so that they can focus their attention on unlocking actual business value. # Toronto, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Massete Jewelry is excited to announce that its popular Z.Samuel Luxury Sterling Silver 925 Business Card Holder from Italy is back in stock. This item's high demand reflects its appeal to customers who value both style and practicality. Massete Jewelry, renowned for its exceptional 14k gold and sterling silver collections found at their website, is dedicated to offering quality products that stand out in both elegance and functionality. The renewed enthusiasm for this luxury card holder showcases Massete's ability to align with consumer interests that shift over time. The growing trend toward functional luxury has made this card holder particularly appealing in professional settings, where making a subtle yet memorable impression can be crucial. "We are thrilled to bring back the Z.Samuel Luxury Sterling Silver 925 Business Card Holder," stated Zev Samuel, a representative from Massete. "We've observed significant interest among our customers, and it's crucial for us to meet their needs. This product exemplifies the high standards and quality that Massete Jewelry is renowned for." Beyond this specific product, Massete Jewelry offers an expansive range of jewelry items catering to various age groups, budgets, and personal tastes. Their collection, showcased on their website, includes everything from essential everyday pieces to bold, statement designs crafted in 10k to 18k gold and sterling silver. Whether it's earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, Massete provides styles for everyonefrom babies and teens to adultswith options such as classic ball earrings, unique nose rings, and custom engravable ID jewelry. Customer service stands as a core focus for Massete Jewelry. They offer complimentary shipping for all U.S. and Canada orders exceeding $50, ensuring that their products are easily accessible to a wide audience. Additionally, for a limited time, the company provides free engraving services, allowing customers to add a personal touch to their purchases. These value-added services enhance the overall shopping experience and represent Massete's commitment to customer satisfaction. The company has also launched a detailed comparison of sterling silver card holders, specifically examining the Z.Samuel product alongside other leading brands. These comparisons aim to educate customers, helping them make informed decisions about their purchases. For further exploration of these insights, customers can refer to the blog post here: https://www.massete.com/blogs/news/the-ultimate-sterling-silver-card-holder-showdown-z-samuel-vs-tiffany-1837-makers. Zev Samuel further commented, "Reintroducing this item gives our customers a special opportunity to own a piece that is not just useful but also elegantly crafted. We are committed to providing products that resonate with our consumers and reflect their lifestyle aspirations." Massete Jewelry remains a top destination for those seeking both fashion-forward and timeless jewelry pieces and accessories. The company consistently monitors market trends and consumer preferences to ensure their product line evolves accordingly. The restock of the Z.Samuel Luxury Sterling Silver 925 Business Card Holder highlights Massete's unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, reaffirming its place as a leader in the jewelry market. Visit their website for more information on their wide array of products and services. Choosing to restock the Z.Samuel Business Card Holder is part of Massete's broader initiative to remain responsive to consumer demands and preferences. Those interested in the details of this product can visit the Massete website for more information: https://www.massete.com/products/zsamuel-luxury-sterling-silver-925-business-card-holder-italy. ### For more information about Massete Jewelry, contact the company here: Massete Jewelry Zev Samuel hello@massete.com Pittsburgh, PA, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is proud to announce PNC Bank as the Gold Sponsor of the 2025 National Mutt Strut, a virtual event launching on World Mental Health Day, October 10, 2025, and running through October 22, 2025. This inspiring nationwide initiative raises critical awareness and funds to support Guardian Angels' mission of pairing life-saving service dogs with veterans, first responders, and civilians living with invisible disabilities such as PTSD and trauma. Launching on World Mental Health Day: Walk With Purpose Thousands of Americans from military veterans to first responders to civilians are silently battling trauma, PTSD, and other unseen wounds. Many are on Guardian Angels' growing waiting list, urgently needing the healing and independence a medical service dog provides. Without action, they may wait far too long. "We're honored to launch this year's Mutt Strut on World Mental Health Day, a symbolic and vital reminder of the mental health crisis facing our nation," said Carol Borden, founder and CEO of Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. "Thanks to the continued support of partners like PNC Bank, we're changing and saving lives every day." The Mutt Strut empowers supporters across the country to walk anywhere in their neighborhood, park, gym, or even from the comfort of home while raising funds and awareness for those who need it most. Registration is now open at https://themuttstrut.org/. Proceeds directly benefit Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs and help place fully trained medical service dogs free of charge with individuals in need. "PNC is honored to once again join forces with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs for this meaningful event," said Stacy Juchno, general auditor for PNC. "We've seen firsthand how this work transforms lives. Many of our employees and people in our communities have benefited from pairing with medical service dogs." You Can Walk. You Can Give. You Can Change and Even Save a Life. Every dollar raised helps reduce wait times and deliver hope, healing, and safety to those living with invisible disabilities. Join the mission. Walk with purpose. Change a life. About PNC Bank PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com. About Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to training and providing medical service dogs for individuals living with disabilities, with a focus on U.S. military veterans and first responders. With an emphasis on enhancing the lives and independence of their recipients, Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs has successfully paired hundreds of dogs with deserving individuals, making a positive impact on families and communities across the nation. Attachment Hallandale Beach, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale, a well-respected provider in the restoration industry, has revealed a big expansion in services to better assist residents and businesses in Fort Lauderdale and nearby regions. As a dedicated resource, they offer an extensive range of restoration services, including water damage restoration, fire and smoke damage repair, mold remediation, storm damage restoration, and complete property rebuild services. Through their company website, clients can explore detailed information on their offerings and learn about their 24/7 emergency response capabilities. With these offerings, RestoPros aims to strengthen its position as a dependable partner for restoring both homes and commercial properties. In a place where storms and water damage are not unusual, a quick and skilled response is essential. RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale focuses on providing fast and professional restoration services. Their team is available 24/7 to handle emergencies, aiming to get homes and businesses back to normal quickly, reducing the impact on residents and business owners. Their comprehensive approach to restoration ensures that affected properties are thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and restored, minimizing any future risk of incidents. More details on how they manage water emergencies and restoration can be found on the water damage services section of RestoPros' site, showcasing their expertise and immediate response tactics. "RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale is deeply committed to this community," said Miguel Adler, a representative of the company. "We understand how urgent restoration work can be, whether it's after a water-related incident or a fire. Our team prides itself on being available around the clock to deliver fast, reliable services right when they're needed most." The company values its strong local roots and the solid relationships it has built in the Fort Lauderdale area. They also operate in nearby regions like Dania Beach, Hallandale, and Hollywood. Understanding Florida's climate, particularly the frequent rainstorms and subsequent water damage, RestoPros is adept at offering solutions tailored to the community's unique environmental challenges. RestoPros takes a comprehensive approach to restoration and remediation. Their process begins with inspecting and assessing the damage, followed by water extraction, drying, cleaning, and full restoration. These steps aim to ensure properties are restored safely and are better prepared for future incidents. They also assist with insurance claims, reducing the stress for clients during an already difficult time. For additional insights on their step-by-step restoration methodology, potential clients are encouraged to review detailed service outlines available on their website. According to Miguel Adler, "Our clients benefit from our extensive experience and certified expertise. The team at RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale water damage services is devoted to providing peace of mind through quick and competent restoration efforts. We work diligently so our clients can return to normalcy without undue delay." The company holds certifications from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), showcasing their commitment to high industry standards and client safety. This certification reflects their ability to carry out restoration work with precision and care, following best practices in each project. To improve customer engagement, RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale offers free inspections and clear pricing. This approach helps clients stay informed about the condition of their properties and the necessary work. The company remains open and ready to address any questions or concerns customers might have as they deal with property damage. The expansion by RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale marks more than just a growth in service area or capabilities. It demonstrates the dedication of a local business to its community, showing a commitment to protecting homes and enhancing the quality of life in an area prone to natural and unexpected incidents. "The expansion allows us to extend our reach and enhance our service capabilities," Miguel Adler shared. "It's a step forward in our mission to become the first choice for restoration work in Fort Lauderdale and neighboring areas. We look forward to serving even more of our neighbors with the high level of dedication and skill we're known for." By boosting their local presence and service offerings, RestoPros of Fort Lauderdale becomes an important resource in disaster recovery and property restoration. Their commitment not only aids property owners in times of need but also solidifies their role as a trusted community partner. Visit their website to learn more about how they are transforming restoration services within the community. ### For more information about RestoPros Of Fort Lauderdale, contact the company here: RestoPros Of Fort Lauderdale Miguel Adler (954) 710-6488 ftlauderdale@restopros.co 430 Ansin Blvd Ste H, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 ABIDJAN, Cote dIvoire, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Montage Gold Corp. (Montage or the Company) (TSX: MAU, OTCQX: MAUTF) is saddened to report that a Montage colleague passed away yesterday as a result of injuries sustained in an incident that occurred during earthworks activities at the Companys Kone project in Cote dIvoire. The health, safety and welfare of our colleagues is our top priority and we are deeply saddened by this news. We extend our sincere sympathies and support to his family, colleagues and friends. A comprehensive internal investigation into the incident is underway, specifically as it occurred over a kilometre away from the employees assigned work location. Montage will work closely with the relevant local authorities. Construction activities were paused on August 14, 2025, and are scheduled to resume on August 15, 2025. ABOUT MONTAGE GOLD Montage Gold Corp. (TSX: MAU) is a Canadian-listed company focused on becoming a premier multi-asset African gold producer, with its flagship Kone project, located in Cote dIvoire, at the forefront. Based on the Updated Feasibility Study published in 2024 (the UFS), the Kone project has an estimated 16-year mine life and sizeable annual production of +300koz of gold over the first 8 years and is expected to enter production in Q2-2027. QUALIFIED PERSONS STATEMENT The scientific and technical contents of this press release have been verified and approved by Mr. Peder Olsen, a Qualified Person pursuant to NI 43-101. Mr. Olsen, President and Chief Development Officer of Montage, is a registered Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM). CONTACT INFORMATION For Investor Relations Inquiries: Jake Cain Strategy & Investor Relations Manager jcain@montagegold.com +44-7788-687-567 For Media Inquiries: John Vincic Oakstrom Advisors john@oakstrom.com +1-647-402-6375 For Regulatory Inquiries: Kathy Love Corporate Secretary klove@montagegold.com +1-604-512-2959 FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, Forward-looking Statements). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, constitute Forward-looking Statements. Words such as will, intends, proposed and expects or similar expressions are intended to identify Forward-looking Statements. Forward-looking Statements in this press release include statements related to the Companys objectives of achieving first gold pour in the second quarter of 2027; the Companys mineral reserve and resource estimates; the timing and amount of future production from the Kone Gold Project; anticipated mining and processing methods of the Kone Gold Project; anticipated mine life of the Kone Gold Project. MONTREAL, Aug. 14, 2025 - Aya Gold & Silver Inc. (TSX: AYA; OTCQX: AYASF) ("Aya" or the "Corporation") today announced second quarter financial and operational results for the three-month period ended June 30, 2025. All amounts are in US dollars, unless otherwise stated. Q2-2025 Highlights Operational Silver production of 1.04 million ("M") ounces ("oz") up 141% vs. the prior year driven by the ramp-up of the new Zgounder plant, which began large-scale commercial production at the end of 2024 Ore processed averaged 3,005 tonnes per day (tpd), with mill availability of 98% Silver recovery averaged 86.5% in Q2-2025; June averaged 92%, above feasibility study rate Ore mined totaled 241,288 tonnes ("t"), up 24% QoQ, consistent with ramp-up plans Financial Record revenue of $38.6M, up 182% YoY, reflecting the increase in ounces sold driven by ramp-up and a higher average net realized silver price of $33.86/oz; revenue rose 14% vs. QoQ, supported by increased silver sales and stronger pricing Cash cost (1) per silver ounce sold of $21.26, reflecting early-stage open-pit and underground development; normalization anticipated in H2-2025 per silver ounce sold of $21.26, reflecting early-stage open-pit and underground development; normalization anticipated in H2-2025 Operating cash flow of $7.8M ($15.7M year-to-date) Net income of $8.6M; diluted EPS of $0.06, including a one-time gain and impairment recovery from the Mx2 transaction Closed a C$144M bought deal financing in Q2-2025, ending the quarter with $114M in cash providing the flexibility to advance our development-stage asset Boumadine, a cornerstone of our long-term growth strategy Development and Exploration Drilled 33,510 metres ("m") at Boumadine and 5,915 m at Zgounder near mine and Regional Identified a new prospective target - Asirem Gold-Copper zone - that highlights Boumadine's potential to become a large-scale high-grade deposit with mineralization open in all directions Acquired new permits, expanding regional footprints at both Zgounder and Boumadine "We're very pleased with the progress this quarter as Zgounder continues to ramp-up steadily. We delivered record revenues and strong operating performance," said Benoit La Salle, President & CEO. "Throughput and recoveries are on-track to exceed first-half performance. While we acknowledge elevated cash costs directly related to mining grade dilution, we expect a reduction in cost per ounce in the second half as we implement targeted measures to improve our mining processes. We remain fully committed to achieving our 2025 objectives. "We're also excited about upcoming catalysts, particularly the release of the Boumadine PEA later this year, a milestone that will highlight the project's scale and potential to become Aya's next major production hub. We continue to deliver across all pillars of our strategy - development, exploration, and production - while expanding our resource base through newly secured permits. Together, these achievements are strengthening the foundation to unlock the full potential of our portfolio and create long-term value for our shareholders." Operational Review Q2-2025 was marked by a steady increase in mill recovery and sustained throughput of 3,005 tpd, resulting in production of 1.04M oz of Ag for the quarter. Mill availability averaged 98%, supporting total ore processing of 273,471t - up 10% QoQ from Q1-2025 - with an average grade of 140 g/t Ag. Recovery improved steadily, averaging 86.5% for the quarter and 92% in June-exceeding the feasibility study rate. These gains were largely driven by the repair of the oxygen plant, now operating near design capacity. Total ore mined during the quarter was 241,288t - up 24% sequentially from Q1-2025 - reflecting continued progress in mining ramp-up activities. Approximately two-thirds of the ore was mined from the open pit, with a strip ratio of 14, and the remaining one-third was mined from underground operations. Mining grades have been impacted by increased dilution associated with accelerated mining rates in the first half. As operations stabilize and blast movement monitoring improves in the open pit, dilution is expected to decrease in the second half of the year. The stockpile totaled 249,106t at the end of the quarter. Operational Highlights Three-month periods ended Six-month periods ended June 30, June 30, Operational for Zgounder 2025 2024 Variance 2025 2024 Variance Ore Mined (tonnes) 241,288 114,025 112 % 435,949 220,905 97 % Average Grade Mined (g/t Ag) 138 176 (21) % 144 168 (14) % Ore Processed (tonnes) 273,471 80,562 239 % 523,214 161,894 223 % Average Grade Processed (g/t Ag) 140 196 (29) % 151 184 (18) % Combined Mill Recovery (%) 86.5 % 84.7 % 1.8 % 84.4 % 83.4 % 1.0 % Milling Operations (tpd) 3,005 885 239 % 2,891 890 225 % Silver Ingots Produced (oz) 1,042,317 130,719 697 % 2,053,491 242,216 748 % Silver in Concentrate Produced (oz) - 301,948 (100) % 57,479 556,812 (90) % Total Silver Produced (oz) 1,042,317 432,667 141 % 2,110,970 799,028 164 % Silver Ingots Sold (oz) 1,140,452 121,121 842 % 2,098,973 229,725 814 % Silver in Concentrate Sold (oz) - 400,850 (100) % 103,044 530,512 (81) % Total Silver Sales (oz) (A) 1,140,452 521,971 118 % 2,202,017 760,237 190 % Avg. Net Realized Silver ($/oz) (B/A) 33.86 26.20 29 % 32.90 24.67 33 % Cash Costs per Silver ounce sold ($)(1) 21.26 17.85 19 % 20.14 18.62 8 % Financial Review Revenue from silver sales totaled $38.6M in Q2-2025, up 182% YoY, reflecting the start of commercial production of the new Zgounder plant on December 29, 2024 and a higher average net realized silver price per oz of $33.86, up 29% vs. the prior year period. Sales rose 14% QoQ driven by higher volume and net realized silver price. Cash cost(1) per ounce sold increased 19% YoY and 12% QoQ, primarily reflecting the impact of lower grades and the early stages of stope development and open-pit sequencing. Net income of $8.6M, or diluted EPS of $0.06, was recorded in Q2-2025 compared to net income of $6.8M or diluted EPS of $0.05 in Q2-2024. Net income for the quarter includes a one-time gain of $1.8M and a net impairment recovery of $4.0M related to the asset sale to Mx2 Mining. The Corporation generated $7.8M in cash flow from operating activities in Q2-2025. Capital expenditures during the quarter included $8.3M at the Zgounder plant to advance surface infrastructure and underground development, including the opening of deeper levels, and $3.5M directed toward exploration and evaluation assets. We also completed an equity financing, issuing 10,767,795 common shares at C$13.35 per share for gross proceeds of C$144 ($105) million. Proceeds will be primarily used to fund the Boumadine project development and for general corporate purposes. As at August 13, 2025, the Company had common shares issued and outstanding of 141,900,422. We ended the quarter in a strong financial position, with $114 million in cash. Financial Highlights (in thousands of US$, except per share amounts) Financial 2025 2024 Variance 2025 2024 Variance Revenues (B) 38,615 13,678 182 % 72,446 18,756 286 % Cost of Sales 29,673 8,765 239 % 53,257 13,507 294 % Gross Profit 8,942 4,913 82 % 19,189 5,249 266 % Operating Income (Loss) 7,342 1,652 344 % 10,668 (1,216 ) 977 % Net Income 8,641 6,813 27 % 15,571 4,222 269 % Operating Cash Flows 7,787 12,790 (39) % 15,706 2,555 515 % Shareholders 2025 2024 Variance 2025 2024 Variance Earnings per Share - basic 0.07 0.05 NM 0.12 0.03 NM Earnings per Share - diluted 0.06 0.05 NM 0.11 0.03 NM June 30, December 31, Financial 2025 2024 Variance Working Capital(2) 88,403 23,424 277 % Cash 113,832 30,944 268 % Recent Developments On August 5, 2025, Aya received a $8 million payment under bank guarantees from EPC contractor Duro Felguera, in compensation for contractual breaches, reinforcing Aya's strong project oversight and disciplined contract enforcement at the Zgounder Expansion Project. Exploration Review Zgounder Near Mine and Regional During Q2-2025, Aya continued to advance its regional exploration program around Zgounder with drilling, target generation, and land acquisition initiatives. A total of 5,915 m of drilling was completed on Zgounder near-mine and regional permits (9,889 m year-to-date), including the commencement of drilling on the Zgounder Far East permits. The drill program remains on track to complete 20,000 to 25,000 m across near-mine and regional targets this year. Geological mapping and prospecting on the Tourchkal and Far East permits led to the identification of multiple targets to support future phases of the 2025 program. Additionally, six new exploration permits were secured north of the Zgounder mine, increasing the regional land package by 12% to 452.7 km. Mapping and target generation on these new permits will begin in the second half of 2025. Boumadine Exploration activities at Boumadine continued at a strong pace in Q2-2025, with 33,510 m of drilling completed in the quarter (79,716 m year-to-date), confirming mineralization continuity across multiple zone. We remain well on track toward the full-year target of 100,000 to 140,000 m, supporting our 2025 exploration and resource development objectives. In addition, surface work identified a new prospective Gold-copper zone, Asirem, within the recently acquired western permits. Drill testing of this new greenfield target is planned for the second half of the year. Further, the acquisition of four new licenses has increased the Boumadine land package to 314.5 km. Several new targets have been identified, including mineralized structures returning up to 3.34 g/t gold and 4.0% copper from surface sampling. Environmental, Social and Governance Aya continued to focus on health and safety preventative measures, with 100% of incidents analyzed and 4,121 hours of training completed during the quarter. In addition, Aya participated in a number of ESG-focused reporting initiatives, which included the publication of the 2024 Sustainability Report, participation in the 2025 S&P Corporate Sustainability Assessment survey, improving the Corporation's rating, and submission of Aya's first annual report to the UN Global Compact. Community engagement was also strengthened in the quarter by finalizing the Corporation's inaugural project proposal for local communities, entrepreneurs and cooperatives. Outlook We have delivered strong operational execution since we declared commercial production of the new Zgounder plant. Looking ahead, we expect milling throughput to remain strong with recoveries continuing to exceed feasibility study rate. We remain fully committed to achieving our 2025 goals and have implemented targeted initiatives to strengthen mined grades as operations maintain a steady state. Further, key catalysts in the second half include the Boumadine PEA and continued drill results from both our core assets, which will further demonstrate Aya's growth potential. With Zgounder ramping up, Boumadine advancing, and district-scale exploration underway, Aya is executing on its strategy to grow production, expand resources, and deliver long-term value. Leveraging a strong balance sheet, positive cash flow, and a significant portfolio, we are well positioned to strengthen Aya's position as a leading high-grade silver producer. Q2-2025 Conference Call Details Aya will release its second quarter 2025 results on Thursday, August 14, 2025 before market opens. Management will host a conference call on the same day at 10 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss the Corporation's financial and operational results. Participants may join the conference call via webcast or by dialing-in as follows: Webcast link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/rnx3x2qj Instructions for obtaining conference call dial-in numbers: Click on the following call link and complete the online registration form. https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIc319d393f7ec4b1aa2f9d5f261c28d70 Upon registering you will receive the dial-in info and a unique PIN to join the call as well as an email confirmation with the details. Select a method for joining the call: a) Dial-In: A dial in number and unique PIN are displayed to connect directly from your phone; or b) Call Me: Enter your phone number and click "Call Me" for an immediate callback from the system. The call will come from a US number. The webcast replay will be archived and will be available for replay following the live call. Presentation slides that will accompany the conference call will also be posted on Aya's website. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information contained in this press release have been reviewed and approved by David Lalonde, B. Sc, Vice-President of Exploration, and by Raphael Beaudoin, P. Eng, Vice-President, Operations, both of whom are a "Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). About Aya Gold & Silver Inc. Aya Gold & Silver Inc. is a rapidly growing, Canada-based silver producer with operations in the Kingdom of Morocco. The only TSX-listed pure silver mining company, Aya operates the high-grade Zgounder Silver Mine and is exploring its properties along the prospective Anti-Atlas Fault, several of which have hosted past-producing mines and historical resources. Aya's management team has been focused on maximizing shareholder value by anchoring sustainability at the heart of its operations, governance, and financial growth plans. For additional information, please visit Aya's website at www.ayagoldsilver.com. Or contact Benoit La Salle, FCPA, MBA President & CEO benoit.lasalle@ayagoldsilver.com Alex Ball VP, Corporate Development & IR alex.ball@ayagoldsilver.com Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws ("forward-looking statements"), which reflects management's expectations regarding Aya's future growth and business prospects (including the timing and development of new deposits and the success of exploration activities) and other opportunities. Wherever possible, words such as "anticipate", "advance", "prospective", "potential", "on-track", "expect", "committed", "continued", "outlook", "demonstrate", "expand", "deliver", "plan", "improve", "grow", "focus", "expect", "similar", "potential", "improve", "objective", and similar expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will", or are "likely" to be taken, occur or be achieved, have been used to identify such forward-looking information. Specific forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements and information with respect to (1) Aya reaching or exceeding milling nameplate capacity in 2025; (2) optimization of Zgounder's operations including improving recoveries as expected, repairing the oxygen plan in the expected timeline, and the reparation of the oxygen plant to impact recovery and help bring recoveries to the expected feasibility study levels, mining rates to increase as planned to reach over 40,000 tpd of total material moved; (3) Aya to complete an updated Technical Report in 2025; (4) maximization of profitability; (5) growth opportunities at both Zgounder and Boumadine; (6) Boumadine potential, namely statement to the effect that Boumadine is to reveal its potential in 2025; (7) Zgounder plant mining capacity to process ore at a steady rate of 3,000tpd in 2025; (8) mill recovery rate to reach the feasibility study recovery rate of 89% in 2025; (9) mill optimization; (10) potential for discovery of satellite deposits to the Zgounder Mine; (11) results from the geophysical and geochemical survey; (12) execution of the 2025 drilling program; (13) growing Boumadine mineralized footprint including through the multiple potentially parallel, on-trend conductive anomalies; (14) similarity to Boumadine of the multiple potentially parallel, on-trend conductive anomalies; (15) drilling of the Boumadine anomalies in 2025; (16) Aya's guidance, namely the Corporation's ability to attain 5.0 - 5.3 Moz Ag of annual production, a cash cost raging between $15.00 - $17.50/oz, a recovery of 84% - 88%, an average grade processed of 170 - 200 g/t Ag, and to deploy an exploration and development budget of 25 - 30 million dollars; (16) timing for ramp up of the Zgounder plant and optimization of its mining capacity rationalizing and normalizing costs over the rest of the year; (17) foreign exchange rate; (18) sales mix and product strategy, including only silver ingots to be produced and sold starting in Q2-2025; (19) results of the sales mix shift, including improvement to overall realized price for a given sales volume; (20) maintaining a production strategy at Zgounder Mine to 1/3 underground and 2/3 open pit; (21) impacts of the shift to 1/3 underground and 2/3 open pit at Zgounder Mine on cost efficiency, margins, mining costs, and cash cost in 2025; (22) the completion of a mine plan in 2025 to support the shift in mining strategy at the Zgounder Mine plant; (23) the 2025 exploration program, namely the 2025 drilling program at Zgounder - near-mine and regional of 20,000m - 25,000m, and at Boumadine of 100,000m - 140-000m; (24) planned drilling campaign at Zgounder (near-mine) to follow up on the underground targets generated from the 2024 program; (25) finding satellite mineralization at Zgounder; (26) update of the mineral resources estimate for Zgounder later in 2025; (27) focus of the drilling at Boumadine, namely along the Main Trend and Tizi; (28) expending of the know mineralization trend along strike, at depth and to infill areas at Boumadine; (29) advancement of the preliminary economic assessment, which is targeted for 2026; (30) the greenfield exploration to test geological hypotheses and drill targets generated from the past three years of work; (31) Aya's strategy and priorities with respect to Environment, Social and Governance; (32) Cash Costs to normalize in H2-2025; and (33) dilution to decrease in the second half of the year. Such statements reflect the Corporation's views as at the date of this press release and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Although the forward-looking information contained in this press release reflect management's current beliefs based upon information currently available to management and based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, Aya cannot be certain that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, geological, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. The material factors and assumptions used in the preparation of the forward-looking statements contained herein, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to Aya's capacity to execute on its plan, its capacity to achieve each item of its guidance, and those material factors and assumptions set forth in Corporation's management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") and the Corporation's Annual Information Form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2024 available with Canadian securities regulators, as well as: (1) there being no significant disruptions affecting the operations of the Corporation, whether due to extreme weather events (including, without limitation drought, lack of rainfall) and other or related natural disasters, labour disruptions (including but not limited to strikes or workforce reductions), supply disruptions, power disruptions, damage to equipment, pit wall slides or otherwise; (2) permitting, development, operations and production from the Corporation's operations and development projects being consistent with current expectations including, without limitation the maintenance of existing permits and approvals and the timely receipt of all permits and authorizations necessary for the operation of our assets; and the successful completion of exploration consistent with the Corporation's expectations at the Corporation's projects; (3) political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Corporation operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, restrictions or penalties imposed, or actions taken, by any government, including but not limited to amendments to the mining laws in Morocco and Mauritania, potential third party legal challenges to existing permits; (4) the completion of studies, including scoping studies, preliminary economic assessments, pre-feasibility or feasibility studies, on the timelines currently expected and the results of those studies being consistent with our current expectations namely on the Boumadine project or resource updates on Zgounder; (5) the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar, the MAD, the Euro and the U.S. dollar being approximately consistent with current levels; (6) certain price assumptions for silver; (7) prices for diesel, fuel oil, electricity and other key supplies being approximately consistent with the Corporation's expectations; (8) attributable production and cost of sales forecasts for the Corporation meeting expectations; (9) the accuracy of the current mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates of the Corporation's analysis thereof being consistent with expectations (including but not limited to grade, ore tonnage and ore grade estimates), future mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates being consistent with preliminary work undertaken by the Corporation, mine plans for the Corporation's current and future mining operations, and the Corporation's internal models; (10) labour and materials costs increasing on a basis consistent with our current expectations; (11) the terms and conditions of the legal and fiscal stability in Morocco being interpreted and applied in a manner consistent with their intent and our expectations; (12) asset impairment potential; (13) the regulatory and legislative regime regarding mining in Morocco being consistent with our current expectations; (14) access to capital markets; (15) potential direct or indirect operational impacts resulting from infectious diseases or pandemics; (16) changes in national and local government legislation or other government actions; (17) litigation, regulatory proceedings and audits, and the potential ramifications thereof, being concluded in a manner consistent with the Corporation's expectations, and (18) transactions announced by the Corporation, including the Mx2 spinoff advancing and closing per the Corporation's timeline and expectations. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that may affect the Corporation's ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, see the AIF and MD&A available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as the Corporation's other filings with the Canadian securities regulators. Readers are advised and cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Corporation undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Notes to Investors Regarding the Use of Mineral Resources Zgounder technical information on resources and reserve is based on technical report entitled "NI 43-101 TECHNICAL REPORT - FEASIBILITY STUDY ZGOUNDER EXPANSION PROJECT", originally dated March 31, 2022, and amended on June 16, 2022 with an effective date of December 13, 2021 (the "Zgounder Report") which was prepared under the supervision of Daniel M. Gagnon, DRA, with the participation of William Stone, Antoine Yassa, Jarita Barry, Fred Brown, Eugene Puritch, Daniel Morrison, Andre-Francois Gravel, Claude Bisaillon, Julie Gravel, Kathy Kalenchuk, Hugo Dello Sbarba, Philippe Rio Roberge, Richard Barbeau & Stephen Coatesall "qualified persons" for the purpose of the Zgounder Report. Boumadine technical information is based on Aya's press release of February 24, 2025. The mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates contained in this press release have been prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. Mineral resources are reported exclusive of mineral reserves and as such the mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability. Numbers may not add or multiply accurately due to rounding. Inferred mineral resources 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 therefore no certainty that the conclusions of the initial exploration drilling results will be realized. Additionally, where the Corporation discusses exploration/expansion potential, any potential quantity and grade is conceptual in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. Varying cut-off grades have been used depending on the mine, methods of extraction and type of ore contained in the reserves. Mineral resource metal grades and material densities have been estimated using industry-standard methods appropriate for each mineral project with support of various commercially available mining software packages. Additional details regarding mineral reserve and mineral resource estimation, classification, reporting parameters, key assumptions and associated risks for each of the Corporation's mineral properties are provided in the respective NI 43-101 Technical Reports which are available at www.sedar.com and the Corporation's website at www.ayagoldsilver.com. Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred mineral resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable. Vancouver - Adamera Minerals Corp. (TSX-V: ADZ; OTC: DDNFF) ("Adamera" or the "Company") announces it has advanced targeting on its 18,714-hectare South Hedley Gold Property in B.C. Detailed soil sampling over the Max Prospect area has identified a zone with consistently anomalous gold values. Results from 46 soil samples collected last week, extended the gold anomaly further southeast and confirms a cut-off to the northwest. The anomaly remains open to the southeast where it becomes covered by an extensive cover of talus. Based on the data at this time, the exploration target may have a potential strike length of 500m. Soil samples collected much further to the southeast also contain anomalous gold. One sample, located approximately 500 metres ("m") southwest of the Max Prospect, contains 142 ppb gold (determined by fire assay at Activation Lab). Inversion of ground magnetic data over the immediate area shows a magnetic feature within a fault bound wedge that is coincident with the anomalous soils (20 to 1,300 ppb gold). The magnetic feature trends northwest-southeast for approximately 500m from the Max Prospect to the sample with 142ppb gold. This magnetic feature supports the northwest cut-off of gold in soil samples at the Max Prospect. See Figure 1 below. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 1. Magnetic inversion data over an area that includes the Max Prospect (shown as "Max" on the map). The three target symbols over the magnetic feature represent soil samples with anomalous gold. The most northerly target symbol is the Max Prospect, the two targets to the south are single soil anomalies that require immediate follow up. The three maps show the magnetic target becoming increasingly more cohesive with depth. This magnetic feature is fault bound (fault = heavy black lines) along the NE and is coincident with soil samples with anomalous gold. All three areas with soil samples are at an elevation of approximately 1,400 m. Volcanic tuff is a dominant lithology capping the area. These tuffs are thought to be younger than the rocks that typically host gold mineralization in the area and as such are considered not to be prospective for gold. This is substantiated by the fact that our prospecting has found no old mines/prospects in this rock type. Soil samples with gold, evidence of quartz veining, presence of sulfides and rock alteration are restricted to areas that are topographically below the tuff. Therefore, it is the underlying "masked" rocks that have potential. Figure 2 is a graphic insight into our current exploration concept. The magnetic inversion data corroborates a possible primary gold source at depth. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 2. Conceptual Model for Exploration at the Max Prospect. The concept considers an overlying volcanic tuff "cap" that is younger than the underlying mineralized rocks of the area. Soil samples collected above the tuff would be barren (marked by "-") and soil samples collected beneath the tuff and over the underlying mineralized rocks exposed in topographic lows would be more likely to contain gold (marked by "+"). "We are making significant advances at the South Hedley Project as we push to expand the Max Prospect to the southeast. In fact, our data is suggestive of a target with potential strike length of 500m. The discovery of previously unknown gold apparently "leaking" from beneath an overlying tuff explains why the area has newly identified potential yet no evidence of previous exploration and/or mining. If we were not so close to a major gold camp we perhaps would have shrugged off the initial evidence we obtained. Follow up work will be immediate" says Mark Kolebaba, President and CEO of Adamera Minerals. A total of 96 follow up soil samples were collected over the area in mid to late July and early August. The samples were analysed using the DetectORETM method. Several of these samples yielded highly anomalous gold results ranging from an approximated 100 to 1,300 ppb* gold. Sites with soil samples of 100 ppb* to greater than 1,000 ppb* gold are targeted for prospecting. Quartz veining and sulfide (arsenopyrite) bearing rocks have been identified and sampled at these localities. Results for several rock samples are pending. A crew is scheduled to arrive on site at the end of the week. An exploration priority will be to collect additional soil samples over the area where a previous soil sample yielded 142 ppb gold. This area is located near the southeast end of the Max Prospect magnetic target which is approximately 500m from the Max Prospect. In addition, several other reconnaissance soil samples with anomalous gold that are located in topographic low areas on the property will be reviewed and followed up with respect to the conceptual exploration model mentioned above. The Max Prospect is located in the northwest portion of the 100% owned property, between Whistle and Smith Creeks (see Figure 3). The site is unexplored, having been identified from reconnaissance soil sampling carried out by the Company. One soil sample yielded 1,340 ppb or 1.34 g/t gold. The prospect is coincident with newly discovered quartz-rhodonite veining in contact metamorphosed volcanic rocks. It also coincides with a prominent magnetic anomaly and a structural/topographic lineament that extends for several hundred metres. Approximately 2.5 million ounces of gold** was reportedly produced in the Hedley Gold Camp. The Max Prospect is located less than 10 kilometres from Barrick Gold Corp's past producer, the Nickel Plate Mine. Click Image To View Full Size Figure 3. South Hedley Claims with Max Prospect located relative to Nickel Plate Mine. Martin St Pierre (P.Geo.), qualified person under NI 43-101, is an independent consultant that has reviewed and approved data associated with this release. Soil samples were analyzed in-house using the DetectORETM method for gold, a proprietary process developed by Portable PPB in Australia that allows for rapid gold analysis at ppb levels using a pXRF. The method uses a rigorous QA/QC process whereby a standard rock sample of known gold content is inserted every 30 samples at the preparation step. This sample is later analysed by the pXRF along with additional control samples that are tested every 20 analyses. The pXRF is fully automated and can analyse up to 180 samples per run. Each sample run using the pXRF is initiated by testing 5 control samples, if any samples do not pass the standard's specifications, the XRF is immediately calibrated. *The gold content of the discovery soil sample with 1,340 ppm gold was determined by fire assay of a 30-gram sample with atomic absorption finish at the Activation Laboratory in Kamloops. Adamera resampled the same site and analyzed 400 grams of soil using the DetectORETM method which yielded a comparable 1,361 DetectORE units representing a calculated ppb value. ** www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/farming-natural-resources-and-industry/mineral-exploration-mining/documents/mineral-development-office/gold_september_2015.pdf About Adamera Adamera Minerals Corp. is exploring for a high-grade gold deposit in Canada and USA. On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mark Kolebaba President & CEO For additional information please contact: Email: info@Adamera.com Website: www.Adamera.com Phone: (604) 689-2010 Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Statements in this press release, other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, may include forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in resource exploration and development. As a result, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. All dollar amounts are in US dollars unless otherwise specified. Toronto, August 14, 2025 - Minera Alamos Inc. (TSXV: MAI) ("Minera Alamos" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its press release of August 7, 2025, as a result of overwhelmingly strong investor demand, it has closed the order book for its previously announced C$110 million private placement (the "Offering"). The Underwriters, led by Stifel Canada as sole bookrunner and including BMO Capital Markets, Desjardins Capital Markets and National Bank Financial Inc., have received indications of interest for the full amount of the Offering, including the C$25 million Underwriters' Option. "We were very pleased to see such strong institutional investor demand for this private placement, which underscores the confidence investors have in Minera Alamos and our ability to deliver shareholder value. The funds raised from this Offering will enable us to complete the acquisition of the Pan Complex mining assets in Nevada and transform the trajectory for the Company," commented Darren Koningen, Chief Executive Officer of Minera Alamos. Incoming Chairman Jason Kosec added, "The acquisition of Pan and Gold Rock will strengthen the Company and reflect well for the industry by providing more robust opportunities for investment dollars. I would like to thank the investors for their support, which will allow us to bring our vision of building the next Americas-focused growing gold producer to life and we look forward to closing both the financing and the acquisition." The Company will use the net proceeds from the Offering to acquire Calibre USA Holdings Ltd. ("Calibre USA") from Equinox Gold Corp. ("Equinox") for total consideration of $115 million (the "Transaction"), of which $90 million is in cash and $25 million is equity consideration, subject to adjustment. Equinox will not hold more than 9.99% of the issued and outstanding common shares of the Company once the Transaction is completed. Calibre USA holds a 100% economic interest in the producing Pan Gold Mine, Gold Rock Project and Illipah Project located in Nevada, U.S. Closing of the Offering is expected to occur in mid-September. The net proceeds from the Offering will be used to pay the cash consideration due to Equinox in the Transaction, with any remainder to be used for working capital required to support operations at the Pan complex. Please see the Company's press release dated August 7, 2025, for complete details of the Offering and the Transaction. The securities being offered pursuant to the Offering have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United Stated Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") 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 an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. "United States" and "U.S. person" are as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act. ADVISORS & COUNSEL Stifel Canada is acting as financial advisor to Minera Alamos, with Gowling WLG acting as legal advisors to the Company in relation to the Transaction and the Offering, respectively. ABOUT MINERA ALAMOS Minera Alamos is a gold production and development Company. The Company has a portfolio of high-quality Mexican assets, including the 100%-owned Santana open-pit, heap-leach mine in Sonora that is currently going through the start-up of operations at the new Nicho Main deposit. The 100%-owned Cerro de Oro oxide gold project in northern Zacatecas has considerable past drilling and metallurgical work completed and the proposed mining project is currently being guided through the permitting process by the Company's permitting consultants. The La Fortuna open pit gold project in Durango (100%-owned) has a positive, robust PEA completed, and the main Federal permits are in place. Minera Alamos is built around its operating team that together brought three open pit heap leach gold mines into successful production in Mexico over the last 14 years. The Company's strategy is to develop very low capex assets while expanding the projects' resources and continuing to pursue complementary strategic acquisitions. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All information herein, other than information of historical fact, constitutes forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. This information is based on information currently available to Minera Alamos and Minera Alamos provides no assurance that actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to: statements with respect to the proposed use of proceeds of the Offering; statements concerning future exploration plans at the Company's mineral projects; the Company's proposed business strategy; and the development and condition of the Company's mining assets; the Offering size; the completion of Transaction and the Offering; the consideration payable under the Transaction; the expected closing dates of the Transaction and the Offering; the appointment of Jason Kosec to the chairmanship of the Company; future production, operations and growth and a result of the Transaction; and the proceeds to be received from the Offering. The forward-looking information is based on assumptions and addresses future events and conditions that, by their very nature involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated in forward-looking information for many reasons. Minera Alamos' financial condition and prospects could differ materially from those currently anticipated in forward-looking information for many reasons such as: an inability to complete the Transaction; and inability to complete the Offering; an inability to receive requisite permits for mine operation, exploration or expansion; an inability to finance and/or complete updated resource and reserve estimates and technical reports which support the technical and economic viability of mineral production; changes in general economic conditions and conditions in the financial markets; changes in demand and prices for minerals; litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; technological and operational difficulties encountered in connection with Minera Alamos' activities; and other matters discussed in this press release and in filings made with securities regulators. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of Minera Alamos' forward-looking information. These and other factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on Minera Alamos' forward-looking information. Minera Alamos does not undertake to update any forward-looking information that may be made from time to time by Minera Alamos or on its behalf, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Company does not have a feasibility study of mineral reserves, demonstrating economic and technical viability for the Santana project, and, as a result, there may be an increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit. Historically, such projects have a much higher risk of economic and technical failure. 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 IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION IN CANADA ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/262550 VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 14, 2025 /CNW/ - Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. ("Elemental Altus" or "the Company") (TSXV: ELE) (OTCQX: ELEMF) will release its Q2 2025 results post market on Monday, August 18, 2025. An investor webcast will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, starting at 11am Eastern Time (8am Pacific Time) to discuss these results, followed by a question-and-answer session. To register for the investor webcast, please click the link below: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eGew-TCUT92fp82sSm_yQQ A replay of the event will be available on the Elemental Altus website following the presentation. Frederick Bell CEO Corporate & Media Inquiries: Tel: +1 604 646 4527 info@elementalaltus.com www.elementalaltus.com TSX.V: ELE | OTCQX: ELEMF | ISIN: CA28619K1093 | CUSIP: 28619K109 About Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. Elemental Altus is an income generating precious metals royalty company with 10 producing royalties and a diversified portfolio of pre-production and discovery stage assets. The Company is focused on acquiring uncapped royalties and streams over producing, or near-producing, mines operated by established counterparties. The vision of Elemental Altus is to build a global gold royalty company, offering investors superior exposure to gold with reduced risk and a strong growth profile. Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V.) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, (together, "forward-looking statements"), concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of the Company. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the future price of gold; the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources; the realization of Mineral Reserve estimates; the Company's growth prospects; the Company's estimated 2025 revenues; and the timing and amount of estimated future production. Generally, 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," "believes," "projects" or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "would," "might" or "will be taken," "occur" or "be achieved." Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, volatility in the price of gold, discrepancies between anticipated and actual production by companies in our portfolio, risks inherent in the mining industry to which the companies in our portfolio are subject, regulatory restrictions, the impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic on the companies in our portfolio, activities by governmental authorities (including changes in taxation), currency fluctuations and the accuracy of the mineral reserves, resources and recoveries set out in the technical data published by the companies in our portfolio. 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, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not the times at or by which such performance or results will be achieved. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements except in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. Readers are directed to the Company's Annual Information Form dated April 29, 2024, filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) for a complete list of applicable risk factors. Investors are advised that National Instrument 43-101 Standards for disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") of the Canadian Securities Administrators requires that each category of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources be reported separately. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. SOURCE Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. Verstappen, Wolff share Sardinia yacht break again Max Verstappen and Toto Wolff have been spotted holidaying together on the Mercedes boss's yacht in Sardinia - their second such sighting this summer. Max Verstappen, Hungarian GP 2025 Red Bull According to Italy's Autosprint, the Red Bull driver was a welcome and amused guest aboard Wolff's Mangusta vessel in Cala di Volpe on the Costa Smeralda - while Charles Leclerc was also seen separately on the pier. The latest rendezvous comes after Verstappen publicly ended speculation about a 2026 Mercedes switch by confirming he will stay at Red Bull - although it is believed his management has secured an option to leave after next season if the next-generation car proves uncompetitive. Former Haas team boss Gunther Steiner told WEB.de: "Was Max's decision to stay a surprise? No. I think it's a strategic decision. "Max knows he has the option to leave Red Bull at the end of 2026. That gives him maximum flexibility. If Red Bull is in a strong position, he'll be in the right place. If not, he'll see who's up front and be able to change teams. If Mercedes shows good form from 2026 onwards, Max will get a multi-year contract there. A move now on a long-term contract would be riskier, Steiner added. As for Leclerc, the summer break means time away from Ferrari's on-track struggles. It's important to have your own universe, he said. "Now there are very few places where I can be myself, live like a normal guy with my family. I can isolate myself when we take a few days' vacation on a boat, away from everything and everyone, close only to my loved ones. There I'm sure I'll be alone with my family, my dog, my girlfriend - that's where I feel good. (GMM) Previous article: Ghana aims to become gold refining hub as BoG pushes value addition Featured Fidelity Bank launches Sika BummReloaded Promo Business Desk Report Business News Aug - 14 - 2025 , 05:30 Fidelity Bank has reintroduced its "Sika Bumm" promo, now "Sika BummReloaded, to empower its customers with life-changing lump sums of money. Building on the immense success of its previous iterations, this revitalised initiative reinforces the bank's commitment to rewarding diligence and encouraging financial stability across Ghana. The "Sika Bumm Reloaded" campaign offers a straightforward yet impactful path to significant cash prizes. A release, issued by the bank, said that with a minimum deposit and maintenance of just GH500 in their current or savings account, customers automatically begin earning points each month. It said this points-based raffle system, operated transparently through the National Lottery Authoritys (NLA) Caritas platform, was designed to drive sustainable deposit growth and reward consistent account activity. For every GH500 in deposit growth, a customer earns one raffle point, directly increasing their chances of winning in both the monthly and grand draws. More points mean greater chances of winning in both the monthly and grand draws, the release said. The Managing Director of Fidelity Bank Ghana, Julian Opuni, said the campaign reflected the banks respect for the goals and discipline of its customers. "At Fidelity Bank, your hard work deserves to be rewarded. We believe the most impactful way to put a genuine smile on the faces of our dear customers is to allow them to win 'Sika Bumm' a lump sum that can truly transform their lives, he said. "Whether it's to invest big in their business, purchase a parcel of land, enjoy a well-deserved family vacation, acquire a car, or simply build a strong financial nest egg, we are putting real money back in their hands to pursue their various dreams and plans. This promo is our way of saying if youre doing the right thing with your money, well stand with you and reward you meaningfully, Mr Opuni added. The release said the promo featured exciting draws designed to keep the momentum going. It said monthly draws will be held at the end of each month, with winners announced in the second week of the following month. Each monthly draw will reward 10 fortunate customers with GH5,000 each. The pinnacle of the promo is the Grand Draw, where the top 10 winners will receive substantial prizes ranging from GH30,000 to an impressive GH100,000. The system encourages long-term savings and account activity, aligning with Fidelitys broader financial inclusion and customer growth strategies, it said. According to the release, qualifying customers would receive regular SMS notifications detailing their ticket allocations for upcoming draws, along with venue and date information. This ensures transparency and keeps participants engaged throughout the campaign. Fidelity Bank encourages all existing customers to actively participate in the "Sika Bumm Reloaded" promo by growing and maintaining their account balances. Non-customers are also warmly invited to open an account with Fidelity Bank today and seize this extraordinary opportunity to be rewarded for their savings discipline, it release added. Featured Ghana aims to become gold refining hub as BoG pushes value addition GraphicOnline Business News Aug - 14 - 2025 , 06:55 The Bank of Ghana (BoG) is championing plans to expand domestic gold refining and value addition to strengthen the countrys position in the global bullion trade and capture more export revenue. First Deputy Governor Dr. Zakari Mumuni revealed this during his keynote address at the 2025 GHIB CONVERGE Conference in London, where he outlined the central banks strategy to boost Ghanas gold sector. Speaking under the theme Rethinking Commodity Finance for Growth, Dr. Mumuni noted that while Ghana is Africas top gold producer and among the worlds top 10, most of its gold is exported raw, depriving the economy of significant value. This is another avenue where financing, given the place of Ghana in the mine of gold, can support the establishment of refineries and other value chain infrastructure, he said. The BoGs push aligns with its recent gold-backed policies, including the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP) and the Gold-for-Oil (G4O) scheme. Since 2021, the DGPP has helped increase Ghanas gold reserves from 8.7 tonnes to 33 tonnes, surpassing its five-year target ahead of schedule. Dr. Mumuni emphasised that refining gold locally would enhance export earnings, support reserve accumulation, and improve supply chain transparency. Analysts say this could position Ghana as a refining hub for West Africa, though success depends on regulatory consistency and environmental safeguards. The CONVERGE Conference, organised by Ghana International Bank (GHIB), brought together finance and trade experts to explore Africas shift from raw commodity exports to value-added processing. Featured Nation in mourning Yaw Boadu Ayeboafoh Thinking Aloud Aug - 14 - 2025 , 06:57 6 minutes read Since the unfortunate fatal accident of the helicopter crash which claimed the lives of eight budding, exuberant and high-flying Ghanaians, we have come to terms with our human nature and the need to live together as a people without distinction. Indeed, we have not only been sober and decorous in how we speak and relate to each other, but we have also realised that political party affiliation is not enough to define us as a people. Therefore, we need to come together to demonstrate respect, understanding and appreciation that belonging to whatever grouping or association is only a matter of choice and alternatives, but never about who is superior or inferior, nor who is best or worst in the choices or positions they take on all matters of human concerns. We have been accommodating and civil to each other, recognising our vulnerability as mortal beings. We have not wasted any moment in admonishing everybody about how we should respond to the tragedy, demanding respect and circumspection, admitting that what happened could have happened to anyone. So, we have admitted that as humans, we face certain basic happenings that point to the fact that there are no human beings who are not faced with the possibility of doing good or evil and thus, there is nothing firm that grouping or membership in human society is immune to any of the human foibles. Posture That is why in discussing any matter, we should not present a posture that one group of people have a monopoly over good and competence, whilst other groups are restricted to evil and crass incompetence. No group is composed completely of infantile minds, whilst another group is made up solely of capable, solid and intelligent dispositions. Prayer My prayer is that once we have come to this realisation, we would reflect the new dawn in all matters of national and individual significance, whether in politics, religion, tradition or ethnicity, customs and mores. Mahatma Gandhi has noted and advised that if a people practice a certain culture, norm or more, no matter how evil or despicable another group sees it, it must never be considered as completely useless, since it has value for those who practice it. We must respect group norms and mores and begin to understand and appreciate them before we pass judgment and condemn them. We must be sensitive to the emotions, sensitivities and sensibilities of others before we speak derogatorily about what they cherish. This new awakening is what we hope and pray to see in public discourse, whether on the floor of Parliament, at conferences and on the electronic or in the print media, to demonstrate that we are all Ghanaians and have a common and collective stake in the future of our country. Whatever it is, and to illustrate the reality, for example, Ghanaians who eat snails or dogs are no better or worse than those who eat snakes. The only exception is that if you want to reach out to people who eat snake with the message of Jesus Christ about parents who care for their children or otherwise, in order not to scorn or abuse their sensibilities, you do not refer to biblical statements of fish and snake, but you have to find relevant alternative examples, since to them snake does not connote or denote evil. Oath Many have suggested that we should make the unprecedented fatality our Ntamkesee or Great Oath, that never again should we treat the menace of illegal mining, destruction of our water bodies and other natural resources with kids gloves. The combined effect of the destruction of tree cover and water bodies is making the environment unmanageable, unmindful of the maxim that when the last tree dies, the last man will also die. We must not treat the dastardly accident as usual, ehuru a ebedwo or fama Nyame. And whilst we are brooding, some have brought oil to fire. Is it that as William Shakespeare points out in King Lear, "The gods are just and of our evil ways make instruments to plague us", or that "As flies to wanton boys are we to the gods, they kill us for their sport"? The question of prophecy has dysfunctionally turned our distress into what the late General Arnold Quainoo of the Ghana Armed Forces described as "fire, not an inferno, not a conflagration" in response to a lecture by Prof. Albert Adu Boahen describing Ghana as engulfed and enmeshed in the "culture of silence". Rev. Stephen Wengham is at all material times one of the most revered, admired and respected men of God in this country. Whether it is unclear communication or misunderstanding, his wading into the accident and certain pronouncements have caused many Ghanaians to link him to false prophets. There is so much that could be read from his comments and it is good that we allow matters to rest. For as Proverbs 17:28 puts it, "Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent and discerning if he holds his tongue". Prof. Wole Soyinka maintains that "post mortem is for quacks and chroniclers who fail at divination". What it means is that men of God must, if they actually speak for God, and want to be taken serious by our people, at all times when they receive any revelation, address these to the right places through appropriate channels, such that we should not be speaking about the past, that which cannot be restored, because it is noted that "God reveals to redeem". The Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation did extremely well in calling for circumspection about the kind of photographs churned out on social media, but the way things were managed created room for that. As our people say, the one who brought rotten meat or fish (momone) into the house invited the flies that invade the place where the smell is centred. Mend The August 6, 2025, Sikakrom accident is said to be unprecedented not because of the number of casualties, but more because of the high-profile political office holders involved. That is why we must use it to mend fences at the point that we experience extreme bitterness and divisiveness in tearing ourselves apart through unwholesome language and intolerance, where even matters of fact could be manipulated to create angels and demons depending on which side of the political divide we stand. Once we know that we are all mortals and prone to accidents, including fatalities that defy political party affiliation, we have to be humble and circumspect in how we talk in public. No matter how irritated we become through the action of others who do not agree with us, and no matter how we see our group as more intelligent and better managers of national resources, we remain mortal. We must, thus, agree with the psalmist in Psalm 34:12 that "whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies". Featured Brazil announces $5.5 billion in credits for exporters hit by Trump's tariffs Euronews International News Aug - 14 - 2025 , 11:32 2 minutes read 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. Brazil on Wednesday unveiled a plan to support local companies affected by a 50% tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump on several of the countrys exports. Dubbed Sovereign Brazil, the plan launched during a signing ceremony at the Planalto presidential palace in Brasilia provides for a credit lifeline of 30 billion reais ($5.5 billion), among other measures. 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. 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. Hours later, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced new sanctions against at least two Brazilian officials, in a move the South American nations health minister rebuked. 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. What does the plan entail? According to local media, Brazils measures include postponing tax charges for companies affected by US tariffs and providing 5 billion reais ($930,000) in tax credits to small- and medium-sized companies until the end of 2026. It also includes expanding access to insurance against cancelled orders. While public purchases of items that could not be exported to the US are also included, Lulas government is also granting a one-year extension of tax credits for companies that import items so they can produce goods for exportation, a mechanism called drawback. 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. Trump claims Bolsonaro is a victim of a political witch hunt, claims that Brazil denies and that drew the ire of President Lula, who accused Trump of 'interference.' The accusations and trade tariffs against Brasilia have riled up the country's political climate and led to an increase in support and poll numbers for President Lula. On Wednesday, Lula once again said he and Trump have never spoken and claimed the American president does not want to negotiate. Next article: VC calls for collective commitment on environmental protection ATU fashion students showcase innovation, heritage through exhibition Joyce Timbillah Awuni Education Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 2 minutes read The Department of Fashion Design and Textiles at Accra Technical University has displayed its final-year students' creative brilliance and cultural pride through an exhibition of their project works, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey. The exhibition, which was themed, Promoting African heritage Our pride, our fashion, formed an integral part of efforts to highlight students' creativity, celebrate African identity and prepare graduates for professional practice in the fashion industry. Celebrating student innovation Speaking at the exhibition, the acting Vice-Chancellor of the Accra Technical University, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, applauded the students for their innovative designs and dedication. He noted that their work reflected not only their technical skills but also their ability to translate creativity into practical fashion solutions. Professor Acakpovi hoped the students contributions would help raise the universitys profile in Ghanas fashion industry. I want to hear the ATU mentioned whenever the giants in the fashion industry are being talked about. This can only happen through your innovative designs, he stated. He also called for greater male participation in the department after observing that female students heavily dominated the field. Showcasing African identity The Head of the Fashion, Design and Textiles Department, Dr Emma Donkor, explained that the exhibition featured the works of 419 Higher National Diploma (HND) students majoring in fashion design, fashion production and textiles. She mentioned that students were expected to create four complete outfits, but only one outfit was exhibited due to space limitations. This is a final-year project and the theme, Promoting African Heritage Our Pride, Our Fashion, reflects our commitment to cultural expression through clothing. Students were encouraged to explore their concepts while maintaining the core message of African identity, she said. Dr Donkor added that the students drew inspiration from Ghanaian culture, with some collections depicting traditional symbols such as drums and corn. She said the techniques displayed included batik, tie-dye, weaving, crocheting and a wide range of dressmaking styles. Dr Donkor expressed confidence in the students abilities, but urged them to embrace entrepreneurship by starting small, rather than waiting for large capital or business spaces. The show Dr Donkor mentioned that the upcoming fashion show at the national theatre would climax the students final-year project, allowing them to present their full collections in a professional setting. She revealed that to ensure the designs receive full attention, all models will wear simple adonko hairstyles to avoid distractions. Next article: US Delegation, Education Minister discuss clean water access in schools and academic exchanges VC calls for collective commitment on environmental protection Ezekiel E. Sottie Education Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD) at Somanya in the Yilo Krobo Municipality in the Eastern Region has launched its fifth anniversary celebrations with a call on the country to develop intellectual capacity and effective policies to address climate change challenges. The launch, which was held at the universitys Auditorium at Somanya with a line-up of activities to climax on December 13, attracted the Yilo Krobo Municipal Chief Executive, Francis Akumatey Addo, alumni, traditional rulers from both Yilo and Manya, development agencies, research collaborators, students, and other universities, among others. The anniversary is on the theme: Sustaining steps towards securing our environment: Five years of achievements, challenges and progress. Vice-Chancellor The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eric Nyarko-Sampson, in his address, reminded Ghanaians that sustainability of the environment was not an event, but a lifelong commitment. He said in the short five years, the university had positioned itself as a thought leader in environmental stewardship, sustainability research and inclusive education. We have introduced pioneering academic programmes that align with national and global development goals. Our research and projects have addressed real-world environmental challenges, from natural conservation management, water resource management and renewable energy to biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture. We have forged meaningful collaborations, both locally and internationally, with governments, NGOs, industries and academic institutions expanding the universitys impact far beyond its campus, Prof. Nyarko-Sampson added. UESD establishment A report to the Ministry of Education in 2014 under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama on the establishment of UESD indicated that in the coming years, the effect of climate change and population growth on agriculture, water resources, natural resources and energy production could significantly impede the socio-economic growth and development of Ghana and derail the countrys ambition of attaining middle-income status. It, therefore, stressed the urgent need to develop the skills, intellectual capacity, scientific knowledge, tools and effective policies required to address those challenges. These, according to the report, could be achieved by training and educating the next generation of creative thinkers who would sustainably manage our natural and environmental resources. The goal of the university is, therefore, to develop this expertise. Registrar The Registrar of UESD, Mary Abena Agyepong, said the report, which led to the establishment of the UESD by ACT 898 (2015), further stated that the university would position itself as a centre of excellence in environmental and sustainable development training and research in West Africa. The university, which started in 2020 with a student population of 78, currently has 1,446 students offering many programmes in the various faculties. Support The Chairman of the UESD Council and former Minister of Finance, Seth Terkper, whose address was read on his behalf by the acting Council Chairman, Prof. Paul Dela Ahiatrogah, said the Council would diligently focus on a critical imperative in ensuring UESD was robustly and sustainably resourced. The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, described the establishment of UESD as a bold step by the government to strategically address the global environmental crisis and equip the country with the knowledge, research capacity, and skilled professionals needed to tackle it. Next article: See the areas that will be affected by ECG/GRIDCo maintenance on August 14, 2025 Featured Akufo-Addo pays tribute to late Asantehemaa Nana Konadu Yiadom III Jemima Okang Addae Aug - 14 - 2025 , 12:59 1 minute read Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to Nana Konadu Yiadom III, the 14th Queen Mother of the Asante Kingdom, describing her as an adorable queen of grace and wisdom. On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, a delegation of chiefs and elders from the Manhyia Palace, led on behalf of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, formally informed the former President of the Queen Mothers passing. Nana Konadu Yiadom III, a fellow member of the Oyoko clan, served as Asantehemaa for eight years, during which she was widely admired for her dedication to the traditions and values of the Asante Kingdom. In his tribute, Mr. Akufo-Addo recalled their close personal friendship. Anytime I was in Kumasi, I did not hesitate to seize the opportunity to visit her to convey my regards, he said. The former President extended condolences to the Asantehene and the people of Asanteman, praying for her soul to rest peacefully in the Bosom of the Almighty, until the Last Day of the Resurrection. Previous article: Police roll out traffic diversions ahead of state funeral for helicopter crash victims on August 15 Featured All you need to know about state funeral for helicopter crash victims set for Friday Mohammed Ali Aug - 14 - 2025 , 10:37 2 minutes read The state funeral for victims of the Wednesday, August 6, 2025, helicopter crash will take place on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Black Star Square in Accra, starting at 7:30 a.m. The Ghana Armed Forces will lead the event. Briefing the media at the Black Star Square in Accra on Thursday, August 14, 2025, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations at the Office of the President, Stan Dogbe, said the event will be held in three parts: a pre-burial service, the main funeral, and the burial at the Military Cemetery at Burma Camp. The pre-burial session, scheduled between 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m., will include tributes, Quran recitations, and institutional eulogies. Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is expected to arrive at 8:50 a.m. followed by President John Dramani Mahama at 9 a.m. after which the state service will begin. Mr Dogbe said tributes will be delivered by colleagues, parents, siblings, widows, children, and senior government officials. The biographies of the six victims yet to be buried will also be read. After the service, the bodies of the six that are yet to be buried will be conveyed to the Military Cemetery at Burma Camp for burial, he stated. He urged mourners to arrive early, remain under designated canopies, and comply with security and protocol arrangements to maintain a solemn atmosphere. He said heavy security will be in place not because the President and the Vice-President are here but also for the safety of all mourners. Seating will be labelled, and only accredited camera operators, video camera operators, and photographers will be allowed within the inner perimeter. Media organisations without accreditation are to use the designated media stands, where audio and clean video feeds will be provided. Previous article: See the areas that will be affected by ECG/GRIDCo maintenance on August 14, 2025 Featured Assemblyman, 3 others arrested over galamsey clashes in Amansie South GraphicOnline Aug - 14 - 2025 , 12:12 2 minutes read The Special Anti-Galamsey Task Force has arrested the Assemblyman for Bonteso in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region, along with three others, for allegedly inciting a violent confrontation with officers during an operation against illegal mining. The suspects have been named as Patrick Asare, the Assemblyman for the area, Akwesi Amponsah, Osei Vasco, and Owusu Alexander. Police say the arrests took place on Wednesday, August 13, after the task force intercepted an excavator actively engaged in illegal mining during a routine patrol. While arrangements were being made to transport the machine, the assemblyman allegedly led a group of miners to confront the team. According to the police, the crowd pelted the officers with stones and other objects, threatened bloodshed, and attempted to prevent the removal of the excavator. They openly dared the police not to move the excavator, an officer said. Despite the provocation, the task force maintained what Police described as professional conduct and succeeded in arresting four individuals, including the assemblyman. Two officers: Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Bawah Abdul Jalil and G/Sgt. Agblekpe Mawuena Yao, sustained injuries during the confrontation. The police reported that the miners blocked all exit routes to trap the team in the area. When the task force attempted to clear the blockade, the officers came under live fire. Two individuals were seen firing pump action guns, which also threatened the safety of the men. The team responded with what authorities called appropriate force to neutralise the threat, disperse the hostile crowd, and secure the excavator, which was later taken to the Manso Adubia Police Station for safe custody and further action. All four suspects are expected to be transferred to Accra for prosecution. Previous article: Six remaining helicopter crash victims to be buried at military cemetery at Tse Addo on Friday Featured Commercial drivers to stage street protest over deplorable PokuaseNsawam road Gertrude Ankah Aug - 14 - 2025 , 14:06 2 minutes read Some commercial drivers have planned to stage a street protest over the deplorable Pokuase-Nsawam section of the N4 highway that connects Accra to Kumasi and other areas in the middle belt of the country. According to the drivers, they are giving a one-week ultimatum to the government to repair the deteriorated sections between Pokuase and Nsawam to make it motorable even while the contractor continues with the rehabilitation works else they will extend the street protest nationwide. In a joint statement through their leadership in various transport unions such as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), and allied operators, they said the busy stretch, which links Accra to the Eastern, Ashanti and northern regions, has become almost impassable and dangerous. They argued that the roads poor condition is inflating operational costs due to constant repairs, reduced vehicle lifespans and more frequent spare-parts replacement. This is not just a challenge for commercial transport operators, but for all motorists using this critical corridor, the statement issued on Thursday, August 14, 2025 said. It is disrupting daily life and economic activities. The unions claimed they have already met with the Minister of Roads and Highways, who promised to fix the road within six weeks. However, they stressed that this deadline has passed without visible progress. To them, if the ministry fails to act within the next seven days, their members will park their vehicles and stage a nationwide protest until our concerns are addressed. The operators are calling on all affected motorists, commuters and residents to join the planned protest, describing it as a civic duty to pressure authorities into urgent action. Attached below is a copy of statement from the unions: Featured Fire destroys multiple shops near Ho Technical University Gertrude Ankah Aug - 14 - 2025 , 12:00 1 minute read A late-evening fire has destroyed several businesses at Nogora Junction, near Ho Technical University in the Volta Region. The blaze, which broke out shortly before 6 pm on Wednesday, August 13, swept through a popular pub known as Nogora, two boutiques, and other nearby shops, leaving owners counting heavy losses. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) said its crews worked for more than two hours to bring the flames under control. The Ho Municipal Fire Commander, Divisional Fire Officer Grade II Sedem Tay, confirmed that the cause of the fire remains under investigation. Although the origin of the blaze has not been officially established, some residents suspect an electrical fault may have triggered it. Eyewitnesses say the power supply to the area had been unstable throughout the day. One shop owner estimated losses of more than one million Ghana cedis. The lights have been on and off all day I suspect it is an electrical fault somewhere, he said. No casualties were reported, but the incident has impacted several livelihoods. Featured Defamation case: Lawyer for Dua Agyeman cross examines GTEC official Kwame Larweh Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The academic credentials of Professor Edward Dua Agyeman, a former Board Chairman of the Ghana Audit Service, became a subject of contention at a defamation case at the Accra High Court. Prof. Dua Agyeman sued the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, in 2018 for defamation. Mr Asiedu Nketia is facing a GH20 million defamation suit for claiming that Prof. Agyeman generated fake audit reports resulting in him being sacked by the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana. Cross examination The Deputy Director- General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof. Augustine Ocloo, is testifying as a defence witness over investigations into Prof. Agyemans credentials as a Professor. During the cross examination, counsel for the plaintiff, Gary Nimako Marfo, asked Prof. Ocloo whether he personally verified the basis of the letter that questioned his clients qualification as a professor, to which the witness answered that he did not personally see the petition. The petition did not come to me directly because we work as a team, he added. Pressed further, Prof. Ocloo could not confirm whether the letter from GTEC asking for proof of the process that led to the professorship was delivered to Prof. Dua-Agyeman. Counsel then suggested that the non-delivery of the letter to his client and the subsequent publication in Graphic Online on June 18, 2025, were deliberate attempts to defame the plaintiff. Lawyer for the defendant, Samuel Cudjoe, raised an objection, arguing that there was no defamation as the plaintiff responded to the letter from GTEC in another publication in Graphic Online but the court overruled the objection. Mr Marfo then questioned GTECs verification process regarding Professor Agyemans alleged PhD and professorship from Warmborough College, reportedly earned in 2013 and 2014, respectively. Prof. Ocloo reiterated that Warmborough lacked accreditation to award degrees or appoint professors, citing findings from GTECs Credential Evaluation Department. However, when asked if GTEC had directly contacted Warmborough, the witness replied that the commission relied on established procedures but provided no evidence of direct communication. Examination-in-Chief Prior to the cross-examination, Mr Cudjoe led the witness to give his evidence-in chief, in which he detailed GTECs efforts to clampdown on unearned academic titles. According to him, during the exercise, Prof. Dua Agyemans name came up, which led GTEC to send two letters to Prof. Agyemans last known address at the Ghana Audit Service, requesting documentation for his professorial title. The witness further testified that the plaintiffs claim of lecturing in 2004 was false, as his qualifications at the timea bachelors degree, a teachers certificate, and an ACCA certificationdid not meet the minimum requirement of a masters degree for a lecturing position. Devolution Conference 2025 - Jospong Group makes case for partnership in waste management Timothy Ngnenbe Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The Devolution Conference (DevCon) opened in Kenya yesterday with a call on African governments to build watertight accountability systems and transparent mechanisms for the efficient management of public resources. Making the call at the opening session of the conference, the President of Kenya, Dr William Ruto, stressed that although African countries had abundant natural resource endowments, weak accountability systems and corruption on the part of public officials largely accounted for the continent's underdevelopment. "While we may not have all the resources we need, we have enough to deliver public goods and services for the benefit of our people. "We need to ensure efficient use of the resources we have by putting in place institutional frameworks and policies that will tackle corruption head-on and help to plug revenue leakages, he said. Again, the Keyan President stressed that the time had come for anti-graft agencies in Africa to live up to their responsibilities of dealing with corrupt public officials who were siphoning resources meant for the public. "For Kenyan people, I want to assure you that there will be no sacred cow anywhere; there will be no space for any call from above or below to prevent anyone from facing justice for corruption," he stressed. The DevCon is Kenya's largest biennial gathering that provides a platform for exploring key interventions for addressing national development challenges. DevCon 2025, which is the ninth edition, is being attended by over 12,000 delegates on the theme "For the people; for prosperity: devolution as a catalyst for equity, inclusion and social justice." The conference taking place at Homa Bay brought together government officials, development partners, the private sector, civil society, and international stakeholders. Ghana and Africa's sanitation and waste mismanagement giant, the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), is participating in the DevCon 2025 as a platinum partner. Jospong prospects Addressing the over 12,000 delegates, the Executive Chairman of JGC, Joseph Siaw Agyepong, said African governments needed to strengthen collaboration with business leaders on the continent to unlock the potential of the continent. Particularly, he said, the mounting waste management challenges in African countries could be addressed when state institutions worked in partnership with the private sector to deploy the appropriate environmental protection solutions. "I stand here with over 25 years of experience and expertise in integrated waste treatment and management, which is a daunting challenge for most African countries. Mr Agyepong said with 57 million Kenyans generating 28,000 tonnes of waste daily, leveraging JGC's innovative solutions in the waste management value chain would be the way to go. He said about 52,000 jobs would be created in Kenya in one year through the waste treatment plants, explaining that 30,000 of those jobs would be from waste collection, transportation and sweeping; 21,000 would be created by the integrated waste management plants; and 1,800 from green initiatives, including data collection and monitoring and validation of the carbon market. Prudent policies The Governor of Homa Bay County, Gladys Wanga, said DevCon 2025 was a call for the development of policies that were people-centred, inclusive and capable of delivering prosperity to people at the local level. Next article: Melcom Group signs book of condolence in honour of 8 fallen patriots Formalise economy, create jobs to reduce poverty Yaw Baah Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 3 minutes read The Board Chairman of the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, has stressed the need to formalise the economy and prioritise job creation to bridge the inequality gap and reduce poverty. He observed that, having a job sector that was highly informal, inclusive growth was only possible if economic expansion translated into decent jobs. Dr Baah said this at yesterday's opening of the seventh International Research Conference of the University of Ghanas College of Humanities at Legon in Accra. There must be a deliberate effort to formalise the economy and create decent jobs for those desperately seeking a living in the informal economy. This is the most effective means by which economic growth can be made inclusive and also bridge the growing inequality in Ghana, he said. The three-day conference, which brought together scholars, researchers, policymakers and development partners from across Africa and beyond, is on the theme: Bridging inequalities in a changing world: Advancing inclusive growth, resilience and sustainable natural resource management. Poverty Despite three decades of steady GDP growth, Dr Baah, a former General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) of Ghana, said millions of Ghanaians remained in multi-dimensional poverty, with wide disparities across gender, regions, education levels and employment sectors. Citing a 2024 GSS report, he revealed that 24.3 per cent of Ghanaians some 7.3 million people were multi-dimensionally poor, with rural areas and northern regions worst affected. He also expressed grave concern about the stark income and pension gaps, including a 456:1 ratio between the highest and lowest SSNIT pensions. He called for a new national consensus and a binding social contract to make employment creation the priority of priorities across all government policies. The former TUC boss also called for deliberate measures to formalise the informal sector, provide social security for the vulnerable and sustain programmes such as the 24-hour economy initiative, which, he said, could create millions of jobs if fully implemented. Dr Baah called for more substantial economic buffers on resilience, including well-managed external reserves and sovereign funds to withstand shocks. He, however, criticised the country's mismanagement of natural resources, while calling for lessons from the diamond revenue model of Botswana and advocated transparency and stronger negotiations in resource contracts. Taxing wealth The Country Director of Oxfam Ghana, Mohammed-Anwar Sadat Adam, urged African governments to close the widening inequality gap by taxing the wealthy and investing in public services that benefit the majority. He said inequality was not inevitable but the result of deliberate policy choices which could be reversed. He, therefore, urged governments to strengthen wealth, property and inheritance taxes and channel the proceeds into healthcare, education and social protection. Featured Investigating crashed helicopter: Military invites experts, manufacturer to examine black box Joshua Bediako Koomson Aug - 14 - 2025 , 06:57 4 minutes read The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is awaiting aviation experts and the manufacturers of the Z-9 military helicopter that crashed in the country on August 6 to determine the procedure for examining its anti-crash recorder. The Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, who disclosed this yesterday, reiterated that the device had already been retrieved and was being preserved as part of ongoing investigations into the tragedy. We are waiting on the experts and manufacturers, and a decision will be taken as to how it will be included in the investigation, he said. Lt Gen. Agyapong explained that the contents of the recorder, together with other evidence, would guide the scope of the probe into the crash. He said this when the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) paid a courtesy call on him at his office at the Burma Camp yesterday to commiserate with the military over the crash and the deaths, which included three military officers. The visit was also to discuss measures to curb misinformation and disinformation relating to the helicopter crash. The association also raised concerns over recent incidents of assaults on journalists by military personnel. Lt Gen. Agyapong expressed gratitude to the GJA for its condolences and public calls for respectful coverage of the tragedy. He stated that while the GAF had not issued daily updates, it acted swiftly after the crash, initiating rescue protocols within 30 minutes of losing contact with the aircraft. He described the crash site as a difficult high-ground terrain, 800 feet above sea level in a dense forest, adding that local residents had reached the site and began disturbing the scene before the military arrived. Despite the challenges, our team reached the site quickly, secured it and worked with available materials to recover the remains, he recounted. The CDS said the bodies were transported from the crash site to Kumasi, placed in coffins draped in national colours and then moved to Accra, all within 10 hours. Considering the terrain and the urgency, this was one of the fastest helicopter recovery operations in the countrys history, he said. He also emphasised that the Armed Forces did not condone assaults on journalists and had consistently investigated reported incidents. He, therefore, apologised to journalists who had suffered such harassment, stating that is not how we train our troops, and any such infractions are dealt with appropriately. The President of the GJA, Albert Dwumfour, appealed to the GAF to provide periodic updates on the ongoing investigations, stressing that the absence of official communication could create a vacuum for misinformation and speculation. He said the loss of eight prominent citizens, including two serving ministers, was not only a blow to the military and the government, but to the entire nation. Ghana has lost leaders, fathers, brothers, mentors and friends. These were men serving their country with dedication, and their sudden departure has left a void that will not be easily filled, he said. Mr Dwumfour praised the militarys swift response to the tragedy, but urged that as the investigation unfolded, the GAF should prioritise transparency and timely information-sharing. Even if there is no new development, the public needs to hear that there is nothing new. It is better to say so than to remain silent because in that silence, rumours grow, speculation thrives and falsehood takes root, he said. Assault on journalists The GJA President also used the occasion to address recent reports of assaults on journalists by military personnel, stating that such incidents, if unchecked, could erode the long-standing trust between the media and the Armed Forces. We acknowledge that journalists have a duty to be responsible and factual, but they also have the right to work without fear of intimidation or harm. Protecting this right strengthens democracy, he emphasised. He urged the military leadership to not only investigate such cases swiftly but to also communicate the outcomes to the victims and the public. Featured Stronger legislation needed for forensic, DNA testing Expert Augustina Tawiah Aug - 14 - 2025 , 07:03 2 minutes read Local authorities have been urged to come up with stronger and clearer laws to guide forensic and DNA testing in the country. A Human Identification Consultant and Infectious Disease Specialist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Central Laboratory, Dr Augustine E. Sagoe, said such a regulation would compel forensic laboratories in the country to do targeted forensic tests. This, he said, would help the laboratories to get regular jobs, make them busy and also enable them to secure funds to run the relevant tests. Additionally, he said important reagents for such testing would ultimately be utilised and not go waste. Dr Sagoe, who was speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic on forensic and DNA testing in Ghana, explained that although the country presently had a legislation that permitted the operation of forensic laboratories, there should be a standard for the whole country as to where specifically to go to if one needed a particular forensic test. We should have a legislation that may say for all our criminal investigations in the country, we are doing them at the Police Service Forensic Laboratory. Korle Bu will be prepared for Ghanas Paternity Lab so that everybody who wants paternity testing will send the samples there, he explained. Reagents He said it cost a lot of money to purchase reagents for forensic tests, hence if only a small part of them were used at the end of a month, for instance, they might expire. Dr Sagoe, who initiated DNA testing in Ghana, confirmed that there was a market for forensic and DNA testing in Ghana, explaining that before starting it, he did feasibility studies at the Accra High Court, where he saw columns of cases pending for DNA paternity. However, because an ordinary person could not afford to pay the cost for doing such testing outside the country, the columns were still there. So the market is there but its just that we need legislation to guide us, he said. Throwing more light on the regulations, he said they were important because DNA testing involved sensitive personal data and had legal implications, including ensuring that DNA profiles were stored securely and not misused; ensuring that evidence was handled properly so that results were admissible in court and for testing to be done only with proper consent and for legitimate purposes. He said it also required laboratories to follow international standards such as ISO 17025. Next article: See the roads in Accra that will be closed for Fridays state funeral Featured Vigil held at Burma Camp, Takoradi for departed patriots Joshua Bediako Koomson Aug - 14 - 2025 , 11:56 4 minutes read The Ghana Air Force has honoured the eight victims that perished in the helicopter crash that occurred on August 6, 2025. The solemn event, which took place at the Air Force Base in Accra, was attended by relatives and friends of the victims who were all dressed in black apparels, and stood closely together, with some clutching flickering candles while others held photographs of their loved ones amidst soothing hymns being played in the background. There was also a recitation of the Holy Quran and prayers for the departed souls. The Ghana Air Force Z9 helicopter crashed at Brofoyedru, near Obuasi, in the Ashanti Region. The aircraft was said to have taken-off from Accra at 0912 hours on the fateful day, en route to Obuasi but lost radar contact shortly after, according to the GAF. The victims were three servicemen, two ministers of state and other senior government officials. And in the Western Region, the Methodist Park at Sekondi in the Western Region was a scene of sorrow and grief at a vigil in memory of the fallen heroes. Among the huge crowd were some prominent citizens of Sekondi Takoradi who expressed regret of the unfortunate situation that had befallen the nation. The speakers included the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, some top Military Commanders, and the Paramount Chief of the Wasa Amenfi Traditional Area, Nana Tetrete Okuamoah Sakyim II, among others. The event was organised by the Western Regional House of Chiefs. Tributes The Engineering Wing of the Ghana Air Force in Accra, begun the evenings eulogies with a heartfelt tribute to Sergeant Ernest Addo-Mensah, a highly skilled technician, whose mastery over the Z-9 helicopter was said to have been matched only by his unwavering commitment to the nations defence. Ernest Brogya Genfi (right), Deputy Minister of Defence; Lieutenant General William Agyepong (middle), Chief of the Defence Staff, Ghana Armed Forces, and some senior military officers consoling families of the deceased at the vigil in Accra. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI He was dependable, meticulous, and always proud to maintain the aircraft that defended Ghanas sovereignty. His laughter eased tension, his diligence set the standard, and his integrity forged unbreakable bonds, the tribute read. Regular Career Course Intake 61, also honoured Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as the Jollof Hunter, describing him as a humble, fair and influential leader. His greatness lay not just in his rank, but in the man he was. He led without pride and listened without judgment. Today, he has not fallen, he has simply flown ahead into skies we cannot yet see,another tribute read. The Regular Career Course 54 also honoured Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, affectionately known as the Sandema Pilot. They described him as a man of dreams and generosity. He was remembered for his humour, entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to helping others. Above all, Peter was a loving husband, a devoted Catholic, and a loyal son. It is inspiring, knowing he died doing what he loved most flying, they said. Fallen heroes The Deputy Minister of Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, described the fallen officers as patriots who embodied the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, honour and devotion to the country. He said that their deaths served as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks undertaken daily by the countrys servicemen and women, whose vigilance ensured national peace and security. Mr Genfi said that the loss should be viewed not only as a moment of national mourning, but also as a call to collective responsibility, both for leadership to provide the necessary resources and support for the GAF, and for citizens to uphold the peace the fallen had worked to protect. Their dedication to duty will never be forgotten. Their families will always be in our plans, he said. Mr Genfi also paid tribute to the late Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, and the other victims, acknowledging the vacuum their passing had created in national service and leadership. He called on all citizens to draw inspiration from their lives and serve with integrity and purpose. Featured Government seeks American help for probe into deadly helicopter crash Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Aug - 14 - 2025 , 19:09 3 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama has requested American experts to help study and analyse the black box retrieved from the military helicopter crash that claimed eight lives last week, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said. The Minister confirmed that the government had formally written to the Americans to come and assist with the investigation as independent officers, to avoid any suspicion. According to the Minister, the American experts would soon arrive in the country, having already received the governments letter and responded. I can confirm to you that, on the instruction of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we have formally requested the Americans to come in and assist. We all know that they have considerable expertise when it comes to these matters. So, the indication we have received from the Americans is that they are very much willing to assist. The Americans have responded, and we are expecting the arrival of American experts soon to help us with the investigations, he said. He emphasised that the government believed bringing in independent experts would ensure the outcome of the investigations was acceptable to all and inspire confidence in the process. Mr Ablakwa added that nobody had anything to hide, stressing that it was important the process was carried out thoroughly and met international gold standards and best practice. Contact with Chinese manufacturers The Minister said the government had also made contact with the Chinese manufacturers, who are on standby to assist with the investigation. I can confirm to you that the Chinese have already been contacted and the manufacturers are standing by. Indeed, the briefing we have received from the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) is that there is a standing protocol where the black box must be, as it were, made available to the manufacturer, in this case, the manufacturers of the Z9 helicopter. So, they are standing by. But, in the Presidents wisdom, he does not want anything to proceed without independent experts. I think that it is quite fair so that we will just avoid all doubts, so that people will not raise issues of probably conflict of interest maybe people with some kind of special interest trying to cover up and all of that, he stated. The Minister said the Presidents decision was commendable, as the Americans were far removed from the process and could provide the independent expertise required. He also expressed gratitude to American partners for agreeing to assist the government. Transparency The Minister said the President wanted utmost transparency and assured that Ghanaians would be kept informed at every stage of the investigation. At all steps of the way, when these experts arrive, when the investigations commence, when the investigations progress, when the investigations conclude, every stage of the way the Ghanaian people should know about what is happening, he said. He assured the public that the government would not conceal any development related to the investigation. I have had some civil society organisations and some other analysts raise concern about, if you like, lack of information about the investigative processes. It is just because it hasnt commenced. We are waiting for the experts before these investigations are done. That is why you probably have not been getting regular updates on the investigation, of course, taking into account national security considerations, he said. He emphasised that most of the heroes who died represented good governance, which required transparency, accountability, and a strong commitment to truth. Mr Ablakwa said it was in the countrys interest to honour the crash victims by making sure that even as they are no longer with us, these ideals which they have always represented, which they stand for, must continue to be espoused and actually advanced in a very concrete manner. Featured Mahamas galamsey war will be fiercest in Ghanas history Foreign Minister Pacome Emmanuel Damalie Aug - 14 - 2025 , 17:10 3 minutes read President John Dramani Mahama will lead a ruthless campaign against illegal mining like never before, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has said. The Minister disclosed that the President, together with Cabinet Ministers at a cabinet meeting held today (Thursday, August 14, 2025), made an unequivocal call for a tough and uncompromising campaign against the menace. I can confirm to you that you are going to see a fight that has never been witnessed in this country. President Mahama is going to lead a very ruthless and relentless campaign against galamsey. He has not minced words at all. We had a brief cabinet meeting earlier today, and the President was very clear. There was no ambiguity that he will be leading a war that we have never seen, to deal with this canker, this existential threat once and for all, Mr Ablakwa said. Mr Ablakwa spoke to the media after signing a book of condolence at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Accra to conclude the three-day opening of the book in honour of the eight victims of last weeks military helicopter crash. Immortalising memories The Minister said there was a need for the government and Ghanaians to commit to completing the mission the victims were pursuing. It is now up to us to finish the mission they were pursuing, a cause that all of us must be committed to; a cause that all of us must be committed to, to help transform and reset this nation. He argued that, as a nation, there must be utmost commitment so that the ultimate sacrifice of the victims would not be in vain. He stressed that honouring their memories should mean ensuring the galamsey menace, which has persisted for years, is dealt with once and for all. Mr Ablakwa also emphasised the importance of immortalising the memories of the departed heroes by safeguarding the environment. We must protect our water bodies and keep this country safe for the generations coming after us, he stated. Appreciation The Minister expressed gratitude to world leaders and international partners for standing in solidarity with the government, families, and people of Ghana in mourning their heroes. During this memorial, the national mourning, and the opening of this book of condolence, there is hardly any embassy or any international partner accredited to Ghana whose head of mission or representative has not been here. All of them have been united with us, grieving and mourning. I want to, on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, extend our profound gratitude. World leaders have called directly, they have sent messages of condolence, they have extended their commiserations through diverse ways, he said. He also thanked staff of the MFA, including the Chief Director, Directors, and particularly the Protocol Department, who have been working around the clock to ensure a smooth process for dignitaries received in the course of this tragic loss. Featured Six remaining helicopter crash victims to be buried at military cemetery at Tse Addo on Friday Mohammed Ali Aug - 14 - 2025 , 15:16 2 minutes read All six remaining victims of last week's helicopter crash will be buried at the Military Cemetery at Tse Addo in Accra after a state funeral service at the Black Star Square on Friday. At a press briefing in Accra on Thursday, August 14, 2025, Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations at the Office of the President, Mr Stan Dogbe, said the Ghana Armed Forces will conduct the funeral service in three parts: a pre-burial service, the main funeral and burial service, and the interment. The pre-burial service will begin at 7:30 a.m. and end at 9 a.m. Tributes will be delivered by family members, colleagues, and institutions, and there will be Quran recitations. Mr Dogbe said Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is expected to arrive at 8:50 a.m. followed by President John Dramani Mahama at 9 a.m, after which the state service will begin. The programme is expected to last about three hours. After the service, the remains of the six victims will be transported to the Burma Camp military cemetery. The Ghana Armed Forces, together with the churches of the deceased, will conduct the burial rites. Mr Dogbe said buses will be provided to transport the six bereaved families to the cemetery to help manage traffic along the route and within the cemetery. He urged mourners to follow the instructions of military police officers who will be directing movement and parking. Air Commodore Thomas Nii Okai of the Ghana Armed Forces said burying six fallen officers at the same time will involve special arrangements to accord them full state honours. He appealed to the public to comply with directions at both the Black Star Square and the cemetery to maintain order. Ghana marks maiden World Ophthalmologist Day - Celebrating guardians of sight Dr Dziffa-Bella Ofori-Adjei Health Aug - 14 - 2025 , 09:57 4 minutes read For the first time in Ghanas history, the country officially joins the global eye care community in commemorating World Ophthalmologist Daya day set aside to recognise and celebrate the vital role of ophthalmologists in preserving and restoring vision. In a world where sight is often taken for granted, ophthalmologists stand as the frontline defenders of one of our most treasured senses. Today, Ghana honours these dedicated professionalsour doctors of sightwhose work not only transforms individual lives but shapes public health, productivity, and national development. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgery of conditions affecting the eyes and the visual system. Unlike optometrists or opticians, ophthalmologists are trained to manage both medical and surgical eye problemsfrom common conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma to complex retinal diseases, eye injuries, and childhood blindness, among others- perform surgeries and prescribe corrective lenses. In Ghana, ophthalmologists are trained through a rigorous six to seven years of medical school and a three-year residency programme, followed by continuous professional development to stay current with global advances in eye care. Thereafter, some ophthalmologists will spend up to two years subspecialising in different areas, such as the cornea, retina, glaucoma, and pediatric ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists are trained to perform intricate and highly delicate microsurgeries on the eye as well as laser procedures for glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP). Most of the surgeries are performed through surgical microscopes and take place on parts of the eye that are just a few millimetres wide. Blindness and visual impairment remain a major public health challenge in Ghana. It is estimated that over 200,000 Ghanaians are blind, with many more suffering from moderate to severe visual impairmentlargely due to preventable or treatable conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and uncorrected refractive errors. Ophthalmologists are at the heart of the national response to this crisis. They perform sight-restoring surgeries, offer life-changing treatments, and lead outreach services to underserved communities. They play a key role in maternal and child health, care for non-communicable diseases, road safety, and the ageing population, all through the lens of vision. Whether in tertiary hospitals in Accra and Kumasi or mobile eye clinics in rural Bunkpurugu-Yunyoo, ophthalmologists are making it possible for children to succeed in school, farmers to return to work, and grandparents to once again see the faces of their loved ones. Celebrating the past, envisioning the future To mark this inaugural celebration, the Ophthalmological Society of Ghana is launching a landmark documentary titled Eyes on the Future The History of Ophthalmology in Ghana. This film captures the journey of eye care in Ghanafrom the early pioneers who laid the foundation, to the current generation of specialists driving innovation and access. The occasion also features a special address by one of Ghanas oldest ophthalmologists- Dr Maria Hagan, sharing reflections on how far we have come and the urgent work still ahead. A call to action On this day, we celebratenot just the people behind the profession, but the vision they protect. We call on the government, partners, and the public to invest in eye health as a national priority. It is time to continue to: Expand ophthalmology training and deployment to underserved regions. Increase public awareness of preventable blindness. Integrate eye care into broader health policies and social protection schemes. Support our eye care teams with modern equipment and sustainable funding. Vision is not a privilege; it is a right, and every Ghanaian deserves access to the services that can protect it. Conclusion As we celebrate the maiden World Ophthalmologist Day in Ghana, let us reflect on the gift of sight and those who work every day to preserve it. To all ophthalmologists across the country, we salute your expertise, your compassion, and your tireless service to the people of Ghana. The future of vision is in your hands, and today, the nation sees you. The writer holds an MBChB, FGCS, FPOS-UBC, Vancouver She is the President of, Ophthalmological Society of Ghana A Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Email: [email protected] Next article: Bawumia warns NPP: Focus on ideas, not insults, ahead of 2026 primary Featured Lets determine conduct of by-elections Dr Darkwa Albert K. Salia Politics Aug - 14 - 2025 , 05:57 3 minutes read A political scientist, Dr Samuel Kofi Darkwa, has stressed the need for political parties and the broader public to determine the future direction of the conduct of by-elections in the country. He said that, considering that by-elections in Ghana have often been marred by disproportionate violence and high costs, policymakers might consider reforms enabling the deceased MPs party to fill the vacancy internally through its competitive processes. Such a system could ease electoral tensions, save public funds and reduce the likelihood of token candidates fielded purely for sympathy votes. It would also help safeguard democratic credibility while preserving the dignity of national mourning, he said. Dr Darkwa told the Daily Graphic that how political actors navigated those sensitive moments would ultimately shape public trust and the tone of Ghanas political culture in the years ahead. Tamale Central Touching on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) decision to withdraw from the upcoming Tamale Central by-election in honour of the late National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament, Dr Murtala Ibrahim Mohammed, he said it represented a rare gesture of unity in Ghanas often highly charged political environment, Dr Darkwa stated. It reflects deep respect for the deceased, his family, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the nation. Such an act highlights the human element in politics, showing that rivalry can pause for empathy in moments of shared grief, he said. Dr Darkwa, however, said the decision also raised questions about the political consequences for the NPP, particularly the potential impact on electoral competition in Tamale Central and the precedent it might set for similar contests. NDC Akwatia On whether the NDC should similarly withdraw from the Akwatia by-election was a far more complex matter. He said, unlike Tamale Central, Akwatia had been the subject of legal disputes, with the NDC determined to snatch the seat from the NPP before the MPs untimely passing. Standing down could be seen as an honourable show of solidarity, but it might also be interpreted as an abdication of electoral responsibility, potentially disappointing loyal supporters, he said. Dr Darkwa however, said with the NDC already commanding a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the seat might not be critical for advancing their legislative agenda. Nonetheless, political realities dictate that every constituency remains important for maintaining local influence and organisational strength. Therefore, the NDCs decision must weigh compassion and symbolism against the strategic imperative to contest, mindful of the expectations of their grassroots base, he stressed. Democratic maturity Dr Darkwa said those developments could signal a maturing of Ghanas democracy, with political parties recognising the importance of civility and respect in national life. He, however, said they also expose a more profound dilemma: how can the country honour the memory of departed leaders without weakening the spirit of competitive politics? Next article: NPP presidential primary: Youth pick forms for Bawumia - Calls for idea-driving campaign Featured LPG withdraws from Akwatia by-election Daily Graphic Politics Aug - 14 - 2025 , 07:04 1 minute read The Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG) has announced its decision to withdraw from the upcoming Akwatia by-election scheduled for September 2, 2025. This, the party said, was a mark of respect for the late Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Ernest Yaw Kumi. "We believe that in this moment of grief and national uncertainty, unity and compassion must take precedence over political rivalry," a statement signed and issued by the General Secretary of the LPG, Jerry Owusu Appauh, said. Reason It said the party's decision was driven by solidarity with the mourning period and the need for unity and calm in the country, given the current situation. The LPG extended its deepest condolences to the family, constituents and colleagues of the late MP, describing his passing as a profound loss to the constituency and nation. The development comes after the New Patriotic Party (NPP), in a similar fashion, announced it would not contest the Tamale Central by-election following the death of MP Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed in a helicopter crash on August 6, 2025. The ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC ), however, confirmed its participation in the Akwatia by-election, with some party members questioning the motive behind the NPPs decision. Featured NPP presidential primary: Adutwum picks nomination forms Gertrude Ankah Politics Aug - 14 - 2025 , 15:54 1 minute read Former Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum on Thursday picked nomination forms for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primary ahead of the 2028 elections. Dr Adutwum, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Bosomtwe in the Ashanti Region said his focus was on how to bring technocratic expertise and practical solutions to Ghanas challenges. The NPP has planned to select a flagbearer in January 2026 ahead of the 2028 presidential election. Dr Adutwum, widely credited with expanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and rolling out new senior high schools during President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addos tenure, told journalists he was confident his track record would resonate with both party members and voters. We need a leader who understands how to transform our economy through education, innovation and job creation, he said. The race Dr Adutwum has entered has former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former MP for Assin Central, the vociferous Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, former General Secretary of the NPP, Kwabena Agyei Agyepong and former Minister of Agric and MP for Abetifi, Dr Byran Acheampong. According to Counterpoint Research (CR), the European foldable smartphone market is growing rapidly, having increased shipments by 37% in 2024 compared to 2023. Even so, foldables still only represent around 2% of the overall European smartphone market. Interestingly, the main sales driver is book-style devices, and not flip-style ones. Book-style foldable sales increased 60% year-on-year (YoY) in 2024. And yet, book-style foldables still only represent around 1% of the overall smartphone market. In 2022, Samsung took 98% of the foldable device market in Europe, but by the end of 2023 its share shrunk to 73% as Honor, Google, OnePlus, and Tecno entered the market. This trend continued in 2024, with the largest impact being made by Honor. And so, in 2024, Samsung only had 50% of the market, despite growing its sales by 10%. In second place was Honor, at 34% share, with a whopping 377% growth YoY. Google was third with 9% and 72% growth, Oppo was in fourth with 4% of the pie and a 10% growth, and Tecno rounded out the top five with 2% share after an 88% growth. Its market share collapse in Europe may in part explain why Samsung decided to actually make the Galaxy Z Fold7 more competitive this year, but the Honor Magic V5 is coming to Europe this month and will bring the fight right back to Samsung. Google's Pixel 10 Pro Fold is expected to be released in October, and the big elephant in the room is Apple, now rumored to release its first folding iPhone in late 2026. Thus, CR expects foldables "to take an increasingly larger share of the premium segment from next year". In the first half of this year, foldable sales in Europe dropped on account of there being no new releases, but this should change in the second half and the growth should accelerate in 2026. By 2028, CR predicts foldable smartphone sales will reach almost 4 million per year in Europe, surpassing 2% of total smartphone sales for the first time in history. And when it comes to the premium segment alone (defined as devices selling for $800 and above), foldables are said to reach almost 10% of sales, potentially even higher in key markets like the UK and Germany. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Source A bakery-cafe called Mayflour opened this week in Hagatna. If the location is familiar, thats because Mayflour now occupies the former Cup & Saucer. Mayflour opened its Hagatna location, aptly named Mayflower II, for business on Aug. 11, operating 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 138 Martyr Street. This is the franchises first expansion from its original Tumon location. Business owner and general manager Scott Cho was given the opportunity to expand in 2024 when the original location was robbed. The original Tumon location got robbed two times before the typhoon started, and the owner of that building felt pity on Scott and wanted to give him an opportunity to expand, said Jo Kim, a trainee employee at Mayflour II. Cho answered most of the Pacific Daily Newss questions in his native language, Korean, and Kim translated his answers. After Cho acquired the space, the previous business owners, of Cup & Saucer, happily assisted him get everything off the ground. Setting up the furniture, renovating, and buying the new products needed was a little bit difficult, but they were able to overcome most of their difficulties because the business owner helped them a lot throughout the process, Kim said. Once it is fully settled, Cho plans to create a new menu for the Hagatna location to serve, including the franchises original pastries plus new additions yet to be revealed. For the sake of the office workers and employees around this area, were planning on expanding towards lunch-biased menus, such as salads and pastas, served with bread, Cho said. Customers new and old Following the Hagatna locations soft opening, there have been a lot of supporters and customers from all parts of the island, so Cho feels that there is no need for a grand opening. Business hours will likely stay the same; however, Cho is considering opening the location on Saturdays, but hes still considering it, since theres not a lot of people who come in on the weekends. The support for the new location has already grown abundant, attracting customers new and old. Yona resident Ricardo Terlaje works next door to the new location at Calvos Insurance and stopped in during his break. He likened the impact of the Mayflour II to its predecessor, Cup & Saucer, fulfilling a desire and a need for nearby workers. They need a place here, Terlaje said. Theres no other place closer than here. Its a short walk for a lot of people, and the pastries seem really good. Drew Guerrero, a Maina resident, frequents the Tumon location with his girlfriend and immediately stopped in for a treat and coffee once the new one opened, saying their coffee is one of the better on island. While he enjoyed the atmosphere of the Hagatna location, he does think it could add more to its image. Guerrero said the cafe would benefit from a slow-paced, somewhere-to-sit vibe for customers who want to hang out instead of grab their food and go. It will be a better spot if they chose to put down some tables and chairs because of how much slower Hagatna is and how much more there is to look at on the street over here, Guerrero said. If there were a place to sit outside, I would definitely just grab a coffee and a sandwich and just sit outside on the table and just read a book for hours. Nostalgia Sinajana resident Sasha Ninete and Yona resident Lorelei Poppe, who had their first impression of the Mayflour cafe after hearing great things and were pleased by the experience, said they were enamored by the scent of a bakery and coffee at the same time that filled the room. It doesnt get better than this, they said, adding that the new location is more advantageous than the original in Upper Tumon. The appealing part is that its not in the business district of Guam, per se, because its less traffic, easily accessible, because right by Marine Corps Drive, right by Agana Shopping Center, Ninete said. Its not super busy, not like their other location, which is why I probably never went there. Its hard to get there, but so this is exciting to be able to access it down here. Anyone on their break, out for a run, or just in need of a quick pick-me-up can find themselves satisfied with the service, food, and beverages at Mayflour II bakery and cafe. Growing up, I always went to the old Cup & Saucer, and this specific spot is bringing back nostalgia, Poppe said. This location itself is going to bring back a lot of people. I feel like coming to Mayflour is going to become the new thing, and also its right near the courts and the post office. Everyone should just come on their lunch time or whenever they can for going into work. Haiti - FLASH : 5 police officers ambushed in Kenscoff, 2 dead and 3 injured On the night of August 12-13, 2025, five police officers assigned to the Departmental Operations and Intervention Brigade (BOID) were conducting a security patrol in the Kenscoff area in an armored vehicle, were ambushed in the Teleco area. The armored vehicle they were patrolling in fell into a trench dug by bandits and could not be extricated. During an intense gunfight, several bandits were fatally injured. Unfortunately, two police officers lost their lives in combat, and the other three were injured, forced to retreat. The armored vehicle was set on fire. "In these painful circumstances, the High Command of the Haitian National Police, through its Commander-in-Chief, bows before the memory of these heroes and offers its sympathies to the families of the missing, as well as to all the police officers who are giving their all to restore security and peace throughout the national territory, while wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. The Haitian National Police (PNH) renews its commitment to combating insecurity and remains more mobilized and determined than ever to incapacitate the criminals and their sponsors. Furthermore, the High Command informs the police that the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) and the Government are doing everything possible to provide the Haitian National Police with adequate resources to address the situation. Therefore, it calls on them to unite more closely and remain mobilized to thwart any planned malicious actions by the armed terrorist groups of the 'Viv Ansanm' coalition. The High Command therefore takes this opportunity to request the continued support of the population in this arduous struggle for the triumph of the rule of law." HL/ S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Security Challenges : High-Level Visit to the PNH and the Multinational Mission On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, Laurent Saint-Cyr, President pro tempore of the Transitional Council (CPT), accompanied by Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime, visited the Haitian National Police (PNH) Headquarters. Discussions focused on current security challenges, strategies to effectively address them, and the urgent need for the PNH to intensify its operations against criminal groups in order to achieve concrete security results. During this visit, a moment of silence was observed, with the flag lowered to half-mast, to pay solemn tribute to the memory of the police officers who have recently fallen in the line of duty. During this visit, the Prime Minister installed Frederic Leconte as the new Chief Inspector General of the PNH. The delegation then visited the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) base in Clercine. During a meeting attended by Inspector General Godfrey Otunge, Commander-in-Chief of the Mission, Andre Jonas Vladimir Paraison, the new Acting Director General of the PNH, and members of his High Command, as well as representatives of the Kenyan government and the international community, the speakers reaffirmed their joint mobilization against armed gangs and their determination to restore a climate of peace, an essential condition for a return to normal life in Haiti. President Saint-Cyr reiterated that the time for action is now and urged the PNH, the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H), and the Multinational Mission to join forces to conduct strategic operations aimed at eradicating insecurity. He reiterated the State's commitment to mobilizing all necessary resources to ensure public safety and organize credible, inclusive, and democratic general elections as soon as possible. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime expressed his gratitude to Kenyan President William Ruto and his government for their continued support in the Haitian people's quest for peace and stability. IH/ S/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Education : Experimentation of the technological branch of the baccalaureate in computer science With the aim of improving youth employability, the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) contributed to the design and testing of the technology branch of the Haitian baccalaureate, specializing in "IT Support" and "Web Design". This pilot project was conducted in four Haitian secondary schools in the metropolitan area. This pilot training program was implemented during the 2023/24 and 2024/25 school years under the leadership of the Spanish NGO Jeunesse et Developpement and thanks to the technical and professional teaching experience of its local partner, the Salesians of Don Bosco of Haiti. Following this pilot project, the Secondary Education Directorate of the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (DES/MENFP) has developed a curriculum guide, training plan, and assessment guide, based on a competency-based approach, for the introduction of two new computer science specializations into the Haitian education system: "IT Support" and "Web Design." The National High School of Petion-ville and the Dominique Savio, Santa Rosa de Lima, and Marie Dominique Mazzarello schools, which have welcomed these specializations, have seen their capacities strengthened both by the newly acquired equipment and the facilitation of better digital connectivity, and by the training received by its staff to improve the quality of their school's management and administration by also applying the competency-based approach. During this pilot experiment of the computer science specialty of the new technological baccalaureate, 12 teachers participated, and 113 young people (89 girls and 24 boys) were able to complete their training during the school year that just ended. Indeed, the development of general digital skills is essential for students to adapt to the current and future world. With these skills, they can not only understand and use computer equipment, but also search and analyze information online, communicate effectively in virtual environments, and open the door to more interactive and personalized learning, which can continue throughout their lives. HL/ HaitiLibre The former Federal Minister of Digitization and Transport, Volker Wissing (FDP), can be pleased: although he has not been in office since May, an official, not infinitely ambitious goal has been achieved: more than half of all residential units, businesses and public authorities will be passed by fibre optics. The federal government had set this as an interim target for 2022. And according to an annual analysis of data from telecommunications providers commissioned by the German Broadband Association (Breko), precisely this mark has now been exceeded in June 2025: 52.8% are now "Homes Passed", according to the analysis. Anzeige In principle, half of the country could therefore be connected to the fastest mass-available Internet connection technology. And that could be a lucrative business for operators. But without cables to the house and possibly also in the house, this is largely gray theory for the time being because providers cannot earn any money with Internet at the door. In the figures that Jens Bocker. Professor at the Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences for Breko, this triad looks like this: 24.3 million potential users have the prospect of fast Internet (Homes Passed), 12.6 million already have a line (Homes Connected) and 6.6 million have actually booked a fiber optic connection. This means that the providers have recorded decent, but not enormous growth rates. From street fighting to house fighting The arena is therefore increasingly shifting from the battle in the street to the battle in the home: to earn money, providers have to win customers. The most efficient way to do this is in apartment buildings: One-off installation in the street ("homes passed", one-off "house sting"), and then installation at so-called network level 4: connecting users in the house itself where numerous users could book fast connections, especially in the case of apartment blocks. However, the current regulations are considered impractical in the industry firstly because there is little incentive for homeowners to allow the fiber optic companies to expand. Secondly, because each user has to be convinced individually. And for many, VDSL is apparently still enough: the number of users has risen again to 20.5 million, according to market researchers. Television cable and simple DSL connections in particular continued to lose market share. What is likely to be the most important question for the fate of the industry: how the Federal Ministry for Digital and State Modernization and the Federal Network Agency will position themselves on a shutdown logic for the copper networks. This is gradually becoming relevant in some parts of the country: in Schleswig-Holstein in particular, where almost 93% are considered to be passed and almost two thirds are basically connected, the thought games are becoming a foreseeably realistic scenario. In Baden-Wurttemberg, Saarland and Bavaria, however, this is still a long way off: here, VDSL is likely to remain the standard for most citizens for years to come. Telekom: No rush The industry is therefore keeping a close eye on how the VDSL top dog, Deutsche Telekom, is behaving. In terms of the number of fiber optic connections it has implemented, it is still well behind its competitors. Even Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Hottges was not entirely happy about this a week ago , but from the Bonn-based company's perspective, everything is still going according to plan. Most recently, Telekom has increasingly focused on cooperations and has also agreed to market Telekom's own fiber optic connections with 1&1, among others. However, Telekom is still more of a wait-and-see giant in the background: Of the 10 million homes passed, only 2.5 million units are also connected via a house tap and just 1.7 million customers have booked a fiber optic connection with Telekom. As long as VDSL is sufficient for many customers or can be supplemented by mobile communications if necessary, there is little reason for them to rush, unlike some of their competitors. In addition, the current political dynamics are playing into its hands. Anzeige This is one reason why Breko now has clear demands for the new Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger (CDU). Wildberger has not yet set a precise target as to what fiber optic quota should be achieved and when. Most recently, he spoke of 70 percent fiber optics, which should be achieved by the end of the 2029 legislative period not a particularly ambitious target. At the same time, Wildberger warned against "simply switching off" DSL infrastructures. His company is to present initial considerations for an orderly migration in the coming weeks. Breko Managing Director Stephan Albers is now calling for a concrete concept to go hand in hand with a reform of the Telecommunications Act. At the same time, the Breko Managing Director does not want to see another idea from the Wildberger Ministry implemented under any circumstances: This had proposed controlling the use of building cabling at network level 4 by third parties via regulated charges. For the members of Breko, whose expansion is more advanced in many places than that of Telekom, this proposal should be quickly shelved, demands Albers. According to the Breko, the housing industry is currently on the right track, as it has now recognized the opportunities offered by laying fibre optic cables. Fixed network will not be replaced by mobile communications Albers, however, declares another discussion to be over, according to Breko. Replacing landlines with mobile communications is not really an issue The rate of mobile landline replacements has been stable for years. Around six percent of people would be happy with mobile telephony alone. However, leaving the upper 6 gigahertz radio spectrum to mobile operators for their sole use is out of the question. (mki) 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. Anzeige Samsung plans to begin expanding the beta program for the One UI 8 update to more Galaxy devices over the course of the coming week. In addition to the Galaxy S25 series, it will be available for the Galaxy S24 series, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6. For some unknown reason, however, the company is not offering the beta for the other devices for the German market, although Samsung is providing the pre-release version for the Galaxy S25 in this country. As Samsung explains, owners of the devices mentioned are only allowed to try out the beta in India, Korea, the UK, and the USA. The beta program will also be extended to other devices in September. In addition to the Galaxy S23 series, the Z Fold 5 and Flip 5, the manufacturer is also including mid-range models such as the Galaxy A36 5G, A55 5G, A35 5G, and A54 in the beta. One UI 8 for Galaxy S25 in September While some models in the A-series will first be supplied with the beta in September, the rollout of the final version for other devices is also scheduled to begin in the same month, presumably initially for the Galaxy S25 series, apart from the current Fold 7 series. Both the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and the Galaxy Z Flip 7 were introduced with the new One UI version ex works at the beginning of July. According to Samsung, the new One UI version contains, among other things, multimodal intelligence to understand context in real time and make everyday interactions smarter and more convenient. Samsung also promises that the functions introduced with One UI 7, such as Now Bar and Now Brief, will display more personalized insights and suggestions. Among other things, users can expect the live update function announced by Google. One UI 8 Watch for other Galaxy Watch models Anzeige Samsung also holds out the prospect that the smartwatch update to One UI 8 Watch will land on other Galaxy Watch models later this year. So far, it has only been pre-installed on the latest watches in the Galaxy Watch 8 series, which, like the 7th generation Foldables, were presented at the beginning of July. According to the company, One UI 8 Watch contains motivating health functions and a refined, intuitive user interface for an even wider range of Galaxy users. Independently of One UI 8 Watch, Samsung's older watch models had only recently received an update with which the sleep apnea detection for Galaxy Watch 4 and newer announced at the beginning of June was delivered. (afl) 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 statement, made by Rantanen on social media platform X on Thursday, drew sharp criticism from Green Party MP Hanna Holopainen , who accused the minister of either failing to understand her own ministry's responsibilities or deliberately misleading the public. Finnish Interior Minister Mari Rantanen said she did not know that the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) had issued new guidance classifying all residents of Gaza as eligible for international protection in Finland. I was not aware of this decision, Rantanen wrote, adding that the matter had not reached her desk. She said she personally believed the decision involved enormous risks due to Hamas terrorists. Migris updated position was first reported by Iltalehti on Wednesday. According to the agency, it now considers all individuals from Gaza as falling under international protection due to the scale and intensity of the conflict. The guidance cites assessments from the United Nations and other international bodies, which have documented widespread violations of international humanitarian law by Israel, including possible war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The Interior Ministry oversees Migri, but decisions on asylum eligibility are made independently by the agency and are not subject to ministerial approval. In response to Rantanens remarks, Holopainen said the minister had misrepresented how the asylum process works. She either doesnt understand her administrative sector or is deliberately giving false information about the process, Holopainen said. She noted that while the updated guidance recognises that originating from Gaza is a basis for protection, it does not grant asylum unconditionally. Security assessments are part of the asylum process. If there are individual security concerns, protection can be denied, Holopainen said. Migris guidance reflects the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands remain at risk due to ongoing hostilities. The agencys decision means that applicants from Gaza will be presumed to meet the criteria for asylum unless specific disqualifying factors, such as security threats, are identified during the individual assessment. Holopainen underlined that such legal procedures are not political but based on international obligations and the Geneva Convention. Rantanen, a member of the Finns Party, has repeatedly expressed concern about what she describes as the security implications of Finlands asylum system. On Thursday, she reiterated that in her view, general eligibility from Gaza carries risks. HT The agency, known as Migri, said on Thursday that a previously leaked internal guideline was taken out of context and gave an incomplete picture of Finlands asylum process. The document, which sparked public and political debate, appeared to suggest that all individuals from Gaza were categorically eligible for protection. Finlands Immigration Service has clarified that Palestinian asylum seekers from Gaza are not automatically entitled to international protection, following public confusion caused by a misinterpreted internal document. In a formal statement, Migri stressed that every application is subject to individual assessment, and broader guidance documents must be applied together. Internal instructions are intended to ensure consistency in decision-making but are never used in isolation. Johanna Waal, director of Migris legal services unit, acknowledged the confusion. I regret the situation. An unclear internal guideline can create a false impression about the asylum process in cases involving Gaza, Waal said. She confirmed that the internal note is being revised to reflect the full scope of eligibility criteria, including risk factors related to terrorism and war crimes. Finland recently updated its general asylum procedures, and those guidelines remain publicly available. They include provisions that allow authorities to assess links to designated terrorist organisations, including membership, affiliations or actions supporting such groups. These conditions apply to all asylum seekers, including those from conflict zones such as Gaza. Waal said Migri personnel are trained to detect inconsistencies in applicants' identities, which play a central role in evaluating potential security risks. Migris security vetting process includes an investigation of so-called exclusion indicators. These refer to signs that an applicant might have committed serious international crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, or other grave offences. If such indicators are present, the applicant is not eligible for protection under international or Finnish law. The asylum system does not offer protection to individuals identified as terrorists, the statement said. Recent legislative changes have also reinforced this position. Under the 2025 amendments, international protection can be denied on national security grounds. Individuals who pose a threat can be refused refugee status, permanent residence permits, and even later citizenship, regardless of their country of origin. Migri works closely with the police, the Finnish Border Guard, and international agencies to assess and share relevant security information. These partnerships support the agencys efforts to vet applicants while ensuring compliance with Finlands legal obligations. The agency reaffirmed that its country analysis, conducted in autumn 2024, found that Gaza was experiencing an extreme level of indiscriminate violence. The finding was consistent with assessments made in other EU member states. However, this assessment only informs part of the eligibility equation. The updated guidance supplements earlier instructions and helps assess how the current conditions in Gaza influence protection claims. Final decisions are always made through case-by-case consideration. Since the conflict in Gaza escalated in October 2023, Finland has received fewer than 40 asylum applications from Palestinian nationals. This figure includes all applicants from Palestinian territories, not just Gaza. HT The Ombudsmans office confirmed to media outlet Uutissuomalainen that it had received the complaints but had not yet decided on a processing schedule. Fifteen formal complaints have been filed with the Parliamentary Ombudsman over the selection of Oliver Stubb , son of Finnish President Alexander Stubb , for a sought-after summer internship at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA). Oliver Stubb began his internship in June as a research assistant. The placement has drawn scrutiny after it was revealed that he received different application guidance than other candidates. Allegations also include possible breaches of administrative fairness and preferential treatment. There were 59 applicants for the internship, with five invited for interviews. Documents later obtained by Finnish media suggested that some of the interviewed candidates were further along in their academic studies and had relevant work experience in international affairs. Stubb, who recently completed his first year of undergraduate studies in Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Exeter in the UK, was ultimately selected for the position. The controversy intensified after reports that FIIA amended its internship eligibility rules to include UK universities just two days after receiving an enquiry from Stubb regarding the role. The complaints submitted to the Ombudsman ask whether the process was handled in accordance with public sector principles and whether the presidents son received special treatment not extended to other applicants. The Parliamentary Ombudsman is tasked with monitoring the legality of official actions by Finnish authorities and institutions performing public functions. The position operates independently of the government. FIIA has not issued further comment since the story first surfaced. The Presidents office has also declined to comment, citing the independence of the institute and the personal nature of the internship application. HT No decisions have been made, Grahn-Laasonen said. But we must seek savings given the countrys dangerous level of indebtedness. The request, confirmed during a breakfast television interview on Thursday, has triggered sharp criticism from opposition leaders and raised questions about internal divisions within the governing coalition. Minister for Social Security Sanni Grahn-Laasonen has asked Kela to produce a list of possible cuts to Finlands social security benefits. The move is considered highly unusual. Government sources told Helsingin Sanomat that Kela, the national social insurance institution, is not typically tasked with generating policy proposals. Its role is usually limited to providing expert support. Grahn-Laasonen, of the National Coalition Party, said she wants the list ready before the upcoming government budget framework talks. The negotiations are expected to begin early next month and will be led by National Coalition MP Ville Valkonen, who chairs the group tasked with finding fiscal consolidation measures. The timing of the request has drawn attention due to earlier statements by Finance Minister Riikka Purra, who said last week that the government had no plans to cut welfare spending further. Opposition figures described the request as irresponsible and damaging. Green Party leader Sofia Virta issued a statement condemning the move. A National Coalition minister asks Kelas Director General whether to cut from the sickest, the poorest, or the unemployed, while their government partner wants to cut support from children in Finland and abroad, she said. Virta said the proposal comes on top of existing welfare cuts made during the current governments two-year term, including to unemployment benefits and basic social assistance. She said the government has already contributed to rising child poverty. Left Alliance leader Minja Koskela described the move as Kela-skumbling by the Coalition Party and accused the government of exacerbating inequality. Billions have been handed to the wealthiest and major corporations through tax reductions. Now those costs are being shifted to the poorest, Koskela said. She also drew a link to Grahn-Laasonens earlier term as Minister of Education, claiming her decisions at the time damaged vocational education. Aino-Kaisa Pekonen, chair of the Left Alliance parliamentary group, told Yle that the request demonstrated poor judgement. She argued that Kela should not be assigned political tasks and criticised the recent appointment of Lasse Lehtonen, a National Coalition Party member, as Kelas Director General. Kela is not a think tank for the National Coalition Party, Pekonen said. Kela has not released any statement confirming whether it will comply with the request or detailing the scope of work. Discussions over the national budget are expected to escalate tensions within the governing coalition. While the National Coalition has pushed for continued fiscal tightening, the Finns Party, led by Purra, has signalled a red line against further cuts to social support. The government has already introduced several reforms to Finlands welfare system. Unemployment benefits have been reduced, waiting periods extended, and eligibility tightened. Housing allowance payments have been lowered, and cuts have been made to basic income support. Budget negotiations will take place in September. The Ministry of Finance will present its fiscal outlook and savings proposals ahead of the talks. The government aims to identify new measures to reduce public debt, currently above 80 percent of GDP. Public sector unions and civil society organisations have also raised concerns over continued austerity measures. A series of strikes earlier this year focused on opposition to welfare cuts and labour market reforms. No final decisions on benefit changes will be made before the government convenes its full budget session. Until then, tensions are likely to persist both within the coalition and in Parliament. HT The meeting between Zelenskyi and Starmer followed a virtual summit on Wednesday, where European leaders discussed Ukraines future and the prospects for a ceasefire. The summit, which included Finlands President Alexander Stubb , came just days before Trump and Putin are expected to meet face-to-face for the first time since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi held talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday, as diplomatic efforts intensify ahead of a scheduled meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. According to Starmers office, the UK remains committed to Ukraines sovereignty and international law. International borders must not change, Starmer said, reiterating that Ukraine deserves strong and credible security guarantees. Starmer also expressed support for a coalition of willing nations to offer security commitments, rather than relying on NATOs formal structures. He indicated that the UK is prepared to increase pressure on Russia through further sanctions and other measures if diplomacy fails to produce results. Zelenskyis visit comes amid growing speculation over a possible three-way meeting involving Trump, Putin, and the Ukrainian leader. Trump has said he is open to such a meeting, depending on the outcome of his Friday talks with Putin. Trump told European leaders that the Alaska meeting would focus on reaching a ceasefire, not on territorial concessions. According to NBC sources, he made clear that discussions on land transfers are not on the agenda. European leaders, including President Stubb, welcomed this stance. Stubb said the talks had produced two clear signals: that no territorial negotiations would take place in Alaska, and that Trump would push for a ceasefire. Trump was not overly optimistic, but he will pursue a negotiated ceasefire, Stubb said. Trump has also suggested that if Putin refuses to agree to a ceasefire, Russia would face severe consequences. He did not specify what those consequences might be but previously hinted at sanctions targeting Russian trade partners. The International Court of Justice has said states must avoid supporting illegal occupations, reinforcing pressure on leaders to find diplomatic solutions. Stubb said that Ukraine must remain at the centre of any negotiations. Ukraine must be involved in the talks and must decide its own future, he said. NATO will not be the guarantor of Ukraines security, but rather some form of coalition of willing states. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also commented on the talks, calling the recent discussions between European and American leaders constructive. She said the European Union is committed to close cooperation to achieve a just and lasting peace. In parallel, the German government has announced a further 427 million in military support to Ukraine through NATOs recently launched PURL mechanism, which enables delivery of US-manufactured weapons based on Ukraines priority requests. Germany has now provided approximately 5 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war. Meanwhile, CBS News and Reuters report that the possibility of a trilateral meeting between Trump, Zelenskyi, and Putin is under active discussion. Locations being considered include cities in the Middle East and Europe. Trump has said he intends to speak with Zelenskyi and other European leaders following the Alaska meeting. President Stubb described the current window as critical. The next 48 hours will be significant. The ideal outcome would be a ceasefire, followed by a prisoner exchange and the start of peace talks, he said. HT The threat follows statements made by President Joe Bidens son during an interview in early August. In the interview, Hunter Biden claimed that Epstein had introduced Melania to her now-husband, Donald Trump , a claim that Melanias lawyers describe as false, defamatory, and damaging. Melania Trump has threatened legal action against Hunter Biden , demanding over $1 billion in damages unless he retracts comments linking her to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein . According to the BBC, which first reported the story, Melania Trumps legal team has issued a formal demand for retraction and a public apology. If Biden does not comply, they say a defamation lawsuit will follow. There is no evidence that Epstein introduced Melania and Donald Trump, the BBC noted in its report. Epstein, a financier and convicted sex offender, died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on charges including sex trafficking of minors. He had previously been convicted of sex crimes in 2008. The timing of Melania Trumps threat coincides with renewed scrutiny of the Epstein case. The White House has faced criticism in recent weeks over what some see as a lack of transparency regarding the governments handling of investigations tied to Epsteins network and connections. Melania Trump has kept a low public profile since leaving the White House, making the threat of a billion-dollar lawsuit a rare public move. Her lawyers argue that Hunter Bidens remarks not only damage her personal reputation but also constitute a deliberate attempt to spread disinformation during a politically sensitive period. Hunter Biden has not commented publicly on the legal threat. There has been no indication that he intends to withdraw his remarks or issue an apology. HT Author: jeffnaper Under siege by the gray mist at dawn, Volodymyr huddles in the basement of his family's home in Kharkiv. The silence itself becomes a weapon, suppressing the lingering fear in the air. Every day, the sounds of missiles and gunfire are a murderous reminder of his country's belated reckoning with Putin's cruel intentions. The rhythmic thud of artillery echoes an uncaring, unyielding beat, a soundtrack to a life defined by war. Volodymyr, a Ukrainian soldier on convalescence leave, is emotionally torn like his war-torn country. A shrapnel wound to his right leg has sent him home, but the invisible wounds have already etched into his soul. In a sense, this war takes no prisoners, grabbing and swallowing everything on its path. Human life is dirt cheap, and so is humanity. Peacemakers keep fighting each other with words. The meat grinder keeps grinding meat, be it from Russia, Ukraine, North Korea or China, according to social media. Like many Ukrainians, Volodymyr has once hoped that the conflict would begin to end by now, preferably with Russia faltering under the strain of war, as it had in Afghanistan and Chechnya. He has studied those historical failures while in college, seeing them as a blueprint for what he then believed was inevitable. The hubris of an overstretched empire, the demoralization of its soldiers, the economic collapseit's all there in the history books. Yet, the reality on the ground is far more complex. Russia is still digging in its heels, counting on the long-awaited rise of isolationism in America. Indeed, until Ukrainians have effectively resisted his advance, Putin has no reason to doubt himself. Now doubt is shadowing his every move. The war, once meant to be a swift show of "shock and awe," has become a brutal chess match for Putina bloody tug of war with no decisive advantage for either side. As Ukrainian cities are reduced to rubble and lives young and old are shattered, the world watches in horror. But what does such horror actually mean to Ukrainians? For Volodymyr, the war is not a spectacle but a lived reality, a constant struggle for survival and the preservation of his country's identity as well as dignity. He remembers the early days of the invasion, the chaos and confusion, the desperate need to defend his home. He has enlisted without a second thought, his patriotism burning bright. But as the war drags on, the initial fire has been tempered by the cold, hard realities of combat. Before long, the idealism of a young man fighting for his country has to accommodate the pragmatism of a soldier fighting for his life. The Tide Turns? Meanwhile, there are signs of cracks in the iron will that Putin has projected. Ukrainians mount a counteroffensive whenever they can, this time beating Russians on Russian soil in the Kursk Oblast. The news has spread like wildfire, a much-needed morale boost for a weary nation. "Success breeds success," the saying goes, and the West has finally begun to deliver on its promises. More advanced weapons, once deemed too escalatory, are now flowing into Ukraine. The tide, it seems, is finally turning against Moscow. The sight of Russian tanks burning and Russian soldiers retreating is a powerful symbol of defiance on the Ukrainian side. It is a testament to Kyiv's resilience and its unwavering determination to fight for freedom from the Kremlin. Volodymyr feels a surge of pride and hope. This is what he has been fighting for, what his comrades have died for. The counteroffensive is not just a military operation; it is a psychological victory, a rejection of the narrative that Russia is invincible. It is proof that a smaller, determined nation can stand up to a larger, more powerful aggressor. But the mounting cost gnaws at him. The fields of Kursk are now soaked with the blood of both Russians and Ukrainians, a grim reminder that even an indecisive victory comes at a terrible price. History speaks Sitting up in his bed, the weight of history feels impossibly heavy. The basement, once a place of childhood games and family gatherings, is now a tomb of memories. A single, dusty bookshelf holds the remnants of a life that is a world away. He picks up a worn copy of Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, a book he has been re-reading since his return. He is drawn to the novel's sprawling narrative, its exploration of the human condition in the face of monumental conflict. He finds a strange solace in the stories of Prince Andrei, Pierre Bezukhov, and Natasha Rostova, their lives entangled in the Napoleonic wars. Tolstoy, a veteran himself, must understand the brutal absurdity of war, the way it can simultaneously elevate and degrade the human spirit. Volodymyr pauses at a classic line he has underlined years ago, a line that now resonates with a chilling, new significance: "History... had been about finding evil and attempting to destroy it." He lets the weighty words sink in, pressing down on him. The fight against Russian aggression is, in his mind, a righteous one. He sees the invasion as a clear act of evil, a violation of his country's sovereignty and a brutal assault on its people. He is a soldier in a just war, a defender of his home. Then he reads on, his eyes scanning the page, and the next line hits him hard: "But in the process of destroying evil, we become the very thing we are seeking to destroy." These words are like bullets flying past his ears. He thinks of the stories of Ukrainian soldiers, hardened by war, who have committed acts he can only justify as necessary evils. He never forgets the dehumanization of the enemy, the way he has come to see Russian soldiers not as people, but as weeds to be removed. Also unsettling is the collateral damage, the civilians caught in the crossfire, the children growing up physically but stunted socially, thanks to war. He sees how the lines between good and evil, once so clear, has blurred into a murky mess. "We become the very thing we are seeking to destroy?" Volodymyr hopes not, prays not. The sun finally breaks through the clouds, casting a weak, watery light into the basement. Dust motes swarm in the new light, looking like sinisterly tiny drones. "Does the Almighty even care what's going on here?" he asks, the words fading into the silence --- or so he thinks. NC appeals court freezes sale of Shepherd Memorial Park The court-ordered sale of Shepherd Memorial Park is once again on hold after a recent unanimous decision by the N.C. Court of Appeals. Related Stories A three-judge panel of the appeals court on Aug. 8 granted a request by one of the cemeterys attorneys for a temporary stay or pause in the case. The order was filed in Henderson Countys Superior Court on Wednesday. By unanimous vote, the motion for temporary stay filed in this cause by petitioner Shepherd Memorial Park, Inc. on 7 August 2025 is allowed, according to the appeals court order. The order goes on to say that an order entered by Superior Court Judge Marvin P. Pope concerning bids received during the court-ordered auction of the cemetery and any other proceedings related to the sale of the property are stayed until the appeals court rules on a request by the cemetery for a more formal and longer-term stay of the case while it is on appeal. Durham attorney Daniel Gibson, who is representing the cemetery in its appeal of the case, said on Wednesday that he was happy with the decision by the appeals court. We think that is an indication theres merit here, he said. An attempt to reach the attorney representing the North Carolina Cemetery Commission for comment on the decision to grant the temporary stay was unsuccessful on Wednesday. The order from the appeals court came after the sale of the property to Altmeyer Funeral Services appeared to be moving forward. Pope, who has been overseeing the receivership of the cemetery, last week directed Altmeyer in an order filed with the court to pay a percentage of the $340,000 it bid for the cemetery in June. Once the West Virginia-based Dignity Funeral Services Inc., which does business as Altmeyer Funeral Services, paid a deposit of 5 percent of the $340,000 the funeral business bid for the cemetery, it would likely begin a 10-day upset bid period required by law. Judge Marvin Pope in his order filed last week also barred Melody Shepherd, the widow of the late Hendersonville funeral director Tom Shepherd, from placing an upset bid, either directly or indirectly, for the cemetery. In a hearing in July, Pope declared Altmeyer Funeral Services owner Jimmy Altmeyer the highest bidder for the cemetery and also directed him to make the 5 percent deposit. But Altmeyer said recently that the 10-day upset bid period probably could not begin until the judges orders were filed with the court. A report of sale of the property was also filed with the court last week. Gibson filed a notice of appeal in Superior Court in July stating that Shepherd Memorial Park intended to appeal Popes order concerning bids received during the June auction of the cemetery. In a petition filed with the court of appeals on Aug. 7, Gibson argued that a temporary and longer-term stay of Popes rulings concerning the sale of the property to Altmeyer are needed because if not paused while the case is appealed Shepherd Memorial Park, Inc. will suffer irreparable harm from the upset bid period moving forward. The trial court ordered the sale of the cemetery to proceed and the commissioner to file the report of sale immediately. (App. p. 66). Filing the report of sale begins the upset bid period. Under this Courts precedent, the end of the upset bid period divests Shepherd Memorial of its property and moots this appeal, according to Gibsons petition filed with the court of appeals. A stay is necessary to preserve Shepherd Memorials property and appeal rights while this appeal is pending. Gibson in the petition also said that Shepherd Memorial Park is likely to win the appeal on its merits, arguing that Pope exceeded his authority by limiting who could bid on the property and by ordering the sale of the cemetery. The petition also argued that the N.C. Cemetery Commission lacked the authority to force the sale of the cemetery. Gibson on Wednesday said he did not know when the court of appeals might make a decision on his request for the longer-term stay in the case while the appeal is proceeding. Cases in the court of appeals typically take between a year and a year and a half to resolve, he said. In separate enforcement actions over the past five years, the North Carolina Board of Funeral service shut down the century old Thos. Shepherd & Son funeral home and the Cemetery Commission forced the cemetery into receivership after numerous complaints. Altmeyer eventually bought the Shepherd funeral home in a court-ordered auction. Pope on Dec. 23 ordered the public sale of Shepherd Memorial Park, the last remaining large asset of the family that transitioned to the funeral business in 1903 after first selling coffins at a furniture store. The judges December order also explicitly barred Melody Shepherd from directly or indirectly placing a bid to purchase the property or acquiring any interest in the cemetery. In todays fast-paced world, multitasking is often seen as a skill, but it can reduce productivity and cause mental fatigue. At Jewish Pavilion Senior Services, we encourage seniors to embrace monotasking focusing on one task at a time for better results. What Is monotasking? Monotasking is the opposite of multitasking. It involves giving your full attention to one activity, which helps the brain function more efficiently. Switching between tasks can cause mental fatigue and mistakes due to cognitive switching, where the brain needs time to refocus. The impact of multitasking Multitasking... Over 130 years after he stood trial for espionage, Jewish Captain Alfred Dreyfus made headlines last month when French President Emmanuel Macron declared July 12 the date the country would remember him and the antisemitism that led to his imprisonment. This presidential declaration follows on the unanimous vote of Frances National Assembly that agreed to raise his rank to brigadier general. These long overdue acts should also spur Americans to reflect on what happens when Jews become the battlefield in a political war that threatens to tear their nation apart. Fortunately, they will have the... (JNS) - When I was growing up in Long Island quite a few decades ago, a common bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah gift was a certificate stating that a tree had been planted in the boy's or girl's honor. It was often accompanied by a tongue-in-cheek card, saying, "Mazel tov! Your day to water your tree is Monday." In Israel today, it's now possible to visit "your" tree as part of a new project called "My Tree in Israel" (www.mytree.co.il), which aims to connect both Jews and non-Jews abroad by "adopting" an olive tree, grapevine or whisky cask. The idea is not only a donation, but a way for participan... Heritage Florida Jewish News writers Stan Roberts, Ed Borowsky and Marilyn Shapiro were winners this year in the Florida Press Associations annual Weekly Newspaper Contest. Marilyn Shapiro took the First-Place award in the Humorous column category for her delightful story The saga of the Looney Tunes glasses, July 5, 2024. With her lighthearted wit, Shapiro shared about her dowry you know, those assets of the wife which she of her own free will entrusts to her husbands responsibility, she wrote. What was her dowry? A collection of Warner Brothers Looney Tunes glasses. The story progr... During the last school year, the Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center reached thousands of students and educators. Thousands of students visited the museum on field trips, with many calling the experience moving, eye-opening, and essential. The Upstanders program reached over 3,200 middle schoolers, inspiring them to stand up against bullying and injustice in their daily lives. Nearly 250 students participated in the White Rose Essay Contest, digging deep into the stories of women during the Holocaust and sharing their reflections on agency, memory and courage. This past summer,... (JNS) Israels Security Cabinet was slated to meet Thursday night to decide on the continuation of the war on Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip, with one option being a full-fledged occupation of the enclave. The ministers were set to gather at 6 p.m. at the Prime Ministers Office in Jerusalem for the pivotal meeting and a subsequent vote. The session is scheduled to last until 11 p.m. but expected to last longer. A senior official told Ynet on Wednesday afternoon that while the Cabinet was expected to support the proposal to occupy Gaza to defeat Hamas, things can always change in the Mi... (JNS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu doesnt want Israel to govern Gaza permanently, Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) told JNS, amid reports that Netanyahu is considering a wider military operation in the Hamas-controlled coastal enclave. Gottheimer, who was part of a bipartisan congressional delegation to the Jewish state that met with Netanyahu on Wednesday, said that Israel is focused on defeating the terrorist group. We talked about it as the ultimate goal of ensuring that we crush Hamas, and we cant have leadership and governance, Gottheimer told JNS. He was very clear to sa... (JNS) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Sunday that Israel does not seek to stay in Gaza, but to replace the Hamas regime with an expanded mialitary operation, and insisted that was the best way to bring the war to a speedy conclusion. Our goal is not to occupy Gaza but to free Gaza, Netanyahu said at a press conference for foreign media. But no one is going to go in there unless we finish the job and finish Hamas. He noted that Hamas still has thousands of armed terrorists after nearly two years of war in about a quarter of the coastal strip and declared that Israe... (JNS) Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) urged Israel to achieve decisive victory over Hamas, saying the Jewish state should annihilate the terrorist group and rebuild Gaza like the United States did in the aftermath of World War II with Germany and Japan. I cant believe were having a discussion about how to fight a war against people who want to destroy you as a people, the Israeli people, Graham told CBS News Meet the Press when asked who should run the Gaza Strip if Israel gains complete military control there. So [Israel] will take Gaza militarily, unless the hostages are released,... (JNS) Wendy Kopp, founder of Teach for America, stated on Aug. 1 that the Jewish state is guilty of the mass starvation of innocent civilians and of inflicting heartbreaking and inexcusable trauma on children and families. The word Hamas appeared nowhere in her LinkedIn post, titled Thoughts and updates: standing in solidarity with Palestine. As you all know, Teach for Palestine, our network partner operating in the West Bank, is continuing its vital work despite escalating violence, severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms and displacement and destruction of homes, Kopp wrote.... (JNS) Lets be honest: Benjamin Netanyahu is not everyones favorite politician. Thats fair. Debate over policy, leadership and politics is healthy in any democracy, including Israels. But there comes a point in times of war when internal disagreements must be set aside. Because this war is not about Bibi. It is about Israels survival. And the Jewish people, especially American Jews, must not let personality distract from principle. Since the Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, Israel has faced a military, moral and psychological assault of unprecedented complexity. Hamass slaug... (JNS) Following the decision in late May 2024, when Spain, Ireland and Norway formally recognized a Palestinian state in an attempt to refocus attention on efforts to find a political solution to the war in the Middle East, more countries have recently joined the bandwagon. French President Emmanuel Macron has declared so, but he is waiting for the U.N. Security Council in September. France will be true to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. Likewise, Britains Prime Minister, Keith Starmer, confirmed that the United Kingdom plans to recognize the sta... (JNS) As reports grow more harrowing of Israeli hostages starved, emaciated and forced to dig their own graves, the painful truth must be confronted: The Bring Them Home Now campaign has not only failed to free our people; it has served to entrench their suffering. What began as a unifying cry of anguish transformed into a moral and strategic disaster. The campaigns well-intentioned, emotionally driven message quickly lost sight of the enemy Hamas and turned its fury inward, at the Israeli government. By doing so, it handed Hamas exactly what it wanted: leverage. Worse, it fractured o... Entertainment / Celebrity by Staff reporter HARARE - Controversial cleric Prophet Passion Java has filed a cyberbullying complaint against socialite and dancehall personality Millicent Tsitsi Chimonyo, popularly known as Malloti, who is expected to appear in court today.The allegations stem from online exchanges in June, where Java claims he was targeted by Malloti in a series of digital communications deemed harmful and defamatory.Malloti, who is reportedly in the final stages of pregnancy, was arrested on Tuesday and has been held at Machipisa Police Station since Monday afternoon. Her legal team has raised concerns over her health and the timing of the arrest."She was taken into custody around 4pm on Monday, but only informed of the charges on Wednesday morning," said her lawyer, Dumisani Mthombeni. "The complaint appears to involve cyberbullying, with Prophet Passion Java named as the alleged complainant. We are still awaiting full details."Mthombeni added that Malloti is experiencing pregnancy complications and is scheduled for induced delivery this week. "She is unwell and fears for the safety of her unborn child," he said.The case has sparked debate online, with supporters of both public figures weighing in on the legal and ethical implications of digital speech and accountability. News / Africa by Staff reporter Chief Justice Luke Malaba has confirmed that the construction of the new Gwanda Court Complex, one of the judiciary's largest infrastructure projects, is in its final stages, with completion expected by the end of 2025.During a site visit, Malaba said his inspection was to "fulfil a promise" to personally monitor progress on the project, which commenced in 2018.The multi-storey complex, built into the side of a hill, will feature nine courtrooms, including a resident High Court, and house all judicial departments, from magistrates and prosecutors to prison services and administrative staff."This is one of the biggest projects undertaken by the judiciary as part of our infrastructure development policy," Malaba said, adding that the courts demonstrate the judiciary's commitment to public access to justice.The Gwanda High Court will become the fourth provincial High Court after Masvingo, Mutare, and Chinhoyi, addressing a seven-year absence of a local High Court in Matabeleland South. The facility will also include a public viewing deck, offering panoramic views of Gwanda and serving as a cultural heritage site.Malaba highlighted that the project forms part of a wider judicial transformation, including the rollout of an Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) to reduce corruption, case backlogs, and delays. "Once a document is filed, it leaves a permanent electronic footprint that cannot be erased," he said.The Chief Justice noted that all construction deadlines had been met and announced the next inspection is scheduled for December 5, by which time he hopes to see a fully operational facility. "This is not just brick and mortar," he said. "It's a manifestation of change a new standard for justice delivery in Zimbabwe." News / National by HMedia - Haitengeswinyika Taskforce HARARE - The Palestinian Ambassador to the Great Republic of Zimbabwe, HE Dr Tamer Almassri, recently issued a sharp condemnation of Israel's assassination of Palestinian journalists Anas Al-Sharif and Mohammed Qurayqa, along with other members of the press, describing the killings as a calculated component of a wider military strategy aimed at erasing witnesses and suppressing evidence of atrocities in Gaza.Dr Almassri said the targeting of journalists constitutes a war crime under international law, drawing parallels to the darkest crimes of the 20th century when totalitarian regimes, including Nazi Germany, sought to destroy those who could testify to their crimes before executing mass killings and forced displacements. He accused Israel of operating under the same logic driven by racial hatred, armed with unrestrained military force, and acting with complete disregard for the Geneva Conventions and the Rome Statute."These are not random acts of war; they are deliberate strikes against the eyes and ears of the world," Dr Almassri stated, warning that Israel's actions have stripped it of any remaining moral or legal legitimacy. "The world will not forgive, history will not forget, and justice will not be denied. Israel will pay the price for its crimes, just as other regimes that thought themselves above the law ultimately did."The Ambassador's remarks follow his earlier condemnation on June 13, 2025, of Israel's complete shutdown of internet and landline services across Gaza, which he described as a deliberate and dangerous escalation to isolate the population. At the time, he demanded urgent intervention from the United Nations and the international community to restore communications and end what he termed Israel's brutal campaign of oppression. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, as of June 12, 2025, approximately 55,104 Palestinians had been killed and 127,394 wounded, with women and children constituting about 70 percent of the casualties.Dr Almassri has also maintained close diplomatic engagements in the Great Republic of Zimbabwe, including a courtesy call on July 15, 2025, to Vice President KCD Mohadi at Munhumutapa Offices in Harare, where bilateral matters were discussed. His past engagements include expressing gratitude on January 29, 2024, for the continuous support Palestine receives from ZANU PF and the Great Republic of Zimbabwe, as well as participation in the November 30, 2023 International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People hosted in partnership with the Women Writers Support NetworkAfrica. The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed annually on November 29 under the auspices of the United Nations to draw attention to the ongoing dispossession and oppression of the Palestinian people. At the 2023 event in Harare, ZANU PF Secretary for External Affairs Simbarashe Mumbengegwi condemned the killings in Palestine.In June 2023, Dr Almassri met with First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa to discuss cooperation between the Palestinian International Cooperation Agency and the Angel of Hope Foundation. In October 2022, he delivered a solidarity message at the SADC Anti-Sanctions Day in Mutoko, linking the struggles against sanctions and occupation.Calling for urgent intervention, Dr Almassri appealed to the international community, especially those nations funding Israel's war machine, to cease enabling genocide in Gaza and instead uphold the legal obligations under the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law. He urged that Israeli leaders be brought before the International Criminal Court to answer for what he described as a systematic campaign of war crimes and crimes against humanity. News / National by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole HARARE - Indigenous churches have pledged to support government efforts to reduce road accidents, end early child marriages, and combat drug abuse, citing their ethical, moral, and spiritual responsibility to safeguard lives.Speaking during a weeklong women's fellowship, thanksgiving, and stakeholder engagement conference, Bishop Wine Chiteto of The United Apostolic Faith Church (TUAFC) emphasised the role of clergy in promoting moral governance and addressing societal challenges."Despite the government's tireless efforts to curb road carnage, churches must actively complement these campaigns through genuine engagement with communities," said Bishop Chiteto. "We have a spiritual and moral duty to ensure lives are saved."She urged church leaders to discourage night travel after mass gatherings, citing fatigue and poor visibility as contributing factors to accidents. "We should encourage members to leave early and rest at designated lay-bys rather than pushing drivers beyond safe limits," she added.Vice General Samkeliso Tshuma echoed the call for safer transport practices, urging churches to engage certified transporters and use roadworthy vehicles. "We need to prioritise compliance with traffic regulations and seek training for our transport teams to reduce accident risks," Tshuma said.Apostle Edmore Makotore appealed to authorities such as the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe to train ambassadors within indigenous churches. "We need traffic safety officers to engage with our congregations during gatherings and help spread awareness," he said.Makotore also highlighted the dangers of hiring unregulated transporters, some of whom may drive under the influence of alcohol. "Churches must also take a stand against drug and substance abuse, which contributes to societal decay," he added.Archbishop Busani Sibanda, founding leader of TUAFC, called for psychological and spiritual assessments of transporters before engagement. "Accidents can stem from socio-economic stress or spiritual afflictions. Churches must be equipped to discern and counsel accordingly," Sibanda said.He further emphasised the need to empower youth through training and incentives to combat drug abuse and uphold cultural values.Meanwhile, six-year-old Ivainashe Makotore delivered a poetic tribute to Zimbabwe's national heroes - both living and late - including President Emmerson Mnangagwa - for their role in securing freedom of worship for indigenous churches. News / National by Staff reporter Zimbabwe's push to expand access to quality education has gathered momentum, with significant progress reported in the construction, registration, and upgrading of schools across the country under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education had recorded major milestones in nationwide school infrastructure development.This includes the registration of 60 new schools and the completion of key facilities such as administration blocks at RioZim High School in Chegutu, Mashonaland West, and Globe and Phoenix Primary School in Kwekwe, Midlands Province."Construction works to upgrade Kundayi High School in Mazowe, Mashonaland Central, are complete and await commissioning," Dr Muswere said. "Work is also at an advanced stage at Jerera Primary School in Zaka, Masvingo; Tsanzaguru Primary School in Makoni and Beaulieu Toronto Primary School in Mutasa, Manicaland; Gangarahwe Primary School in Hurungwe, and Kuredza Primary School in Sanyati, Mashonaland West."Dr Muswere said government efforts also prioritised science education, with new laboratories built at St Francis Tshitshi in Mangwe, Mtetengwe Primary School in Beitbridge, Ingwalo Secondary in Imbizo, Bulawayo, Nembudziya Government Secondary in Gokwe North, Dinhe Primary in Mwenezi, Ancillae Mariae Reginae Convent in Lupane, and Don Bosco Secondary in Hwange.Boarding facilities have also been a focus, with sustainable accommodation completed at Collen Bawn Secondary School in Gwanda. Similar projects nearing completion include Chibuwe High in Chipinge, Marist Brothers High in Hwange, and Tshabanda and Khumbula High Schools in Tsholotsho.Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerayi Moyo praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa for spearheading the infrastructure rollout, saying it was a cornerstone of achieving Vision 2030."We are building schools, refurbishing classrooms and constructing low-cost accommodation, boarding facilities and teachers' houses all to ensure quality, equitable and inclusive education," Moyo said. "Our focus is on marginalised and underprivileged areas, ensuring pupils do not have to walk more than 5km to the nearest school, in line with international conventions."The Minister revealed that government is on track to close the school infrastructure deficit, which stood at 3,000 in 2022, with over 120 new schools planned for construction in 2025."We have already commissioned new schools in all 10 provinces and secured ZiG42 billion for school construction and overhead costs," he added. "Through public-private partnerships, we aim to close the gap by 2030 and create facilities that support science, engineering and other critical fields for national development."The accelerated investment in school infrastructure is being hailed as a strong signal of the government's commitment to modernising the education sector and ensuring no community is left behind. News / National by Staff reporter The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has reported a worrying increase in road traffic accidents during the 2025 Heroes and Defence Forces holidays, with fatalities and injuries rising sharply compared to last year.According to police statistics, 196 road traffic accidents were recorded between 11 and 13 August 2025, up from 149 during the same period in 2024. Fatal accidents rose from eight to 13, while the death toll jumped from 16 to 24. Injuries also increased from 77 to 96.Police attributed the surge to reckless driving, speeding, mechanical faults, and dangerous overtaking.Two of the most severe crashes occurred on 11 August. At around 2am, six Zion Christian Church congregants were killed and 16 others injured when a hired Quantum vehicle veered off the MutareMasvingo Road and overturned. The group had been travelling from Gokwe to Chimanimani. Later that day, two people died on the MasvingoMbalabala Road after a Toyota Hilux overturned.On 12 August, four passengers died and 17 were injured when a Toyota Hiace kombi suffered a tyre burst and overturned along the BinduraShamva Road. In another incident the same day, a 16-year-old girl was killed on ChechecheRimai Road after being run over by a lorry transporting river sand.Pedestrian fatalities were also reported. In Harare's Hatfield suburb, a man died on the spot after being struck by a Toyota Spade on 12 August, while another pedestrian was injured on 11 August in a collision with a Honda Fit near High Glen Complex.ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged motorists to exercise extreme caution, ensure vehicles are roadworthy, and refrain from speeding and unsafe overtaking. He also appealed to pedestrians to wear reflective clothing at night to improve visibility."Drivers should adhere to all road rules and regulations to curb the continuous loss of lives through road traffic accidents," said Comm Nyathi. News / National by Staff reporter A 26-year-old man from Budiriro, Prosper Tapiwa Manyagadze, appeared before Harare Magistrate Musaiona Shotgame on charges of fraud and forgery after allegedly posing as a registered legal practitioner to defraud a client.Manyagadze was remanded in custody pending a bail application scheduled for today.The State alleges that in April 2025, Manyagadze misrepresented himself to the complainant as a practising lawyer registered with the Law Society of Zimbabwe. Acting on this claim, the complainant engaged him to provide legal services aimed at recovering a US$3,000 debt."The accused received the money under the pretext that it was for legal fees and associated payments at the High Court," the State alleges.The complainant later discovered that Manyagadze was not a qualified lawyer and that the court documents provided were fraudulent.On the forgery charges, it is alleged that on May 12, 2025, Manyagadze affixed a counterfeit High Court date stamp and a fake case number, HCH482/25, to court documents. He then presented the falsified documents to the complainant, claiming the case was before High Court judge Justice Dube-Banda.The case highlights growing concerns over individuals posing as legal professionals to defraud unsuspecting clients, with authorities urging members of the public to verify credentials before engaging legal services.Magistrate Shotgame remanded Manyagadze in custody, with the matter set for further hearing today. News / National by Staff reporter Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube has issued a stern warning to government ministries over unchecked procurement practices, describing over-contracting as a "bleeding wound" on the Treasury that threatens Zimbabwe's fragile fiscal discipline."Over-contracting is the biggest challenge for us as a nation," Ncube said. "Ministries sign contracts on their own, and we only find out later as the Treasury."The minister said some ministries were bypassing Treasury approval when entering into major contracts, fuelling ballooning liabilities and straining the national budget. This, he warned, was causing payment delays to contractors, eroding trust with the private sector, and stalling critical development projects."No government ministry can sign a major contract without Treasury's consent," he stressed, adding that tighter controls, mandatory approvals, and real-time procurement monitoring would be enforced.Economist Eddie Cross said Treasury was preparing to issue a directive stopping ministries from entering contracts without written approval, though legacy obligations would take time to clear. Professor Gift Mugano said the practice violated the Public Finance Management Act and created room for corruption, urging penalties and greater use of e-procurement systems.Ncube said the reforms were aimed at safeguarding public resources, restoring fiscal discipline, and ensuring projects are implemented smoothly. "This is not about bureaucracy, but about accountability," he said. News / National by Staff reporter Harare socialite Millicent Chimonyo (26), popularly known as Malloti and infamous for her use of vulgar language, appeared in court on Thursday facing cyberbullying charges over remarks directed at controversial cleric Passion Java.Malloti appeared before Harare Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzayi, where the State, represented by Nomsa Kangara, did not oppose bail. She was granted bail of US$100.Prosecutors allege that on May 14, Malloti recorded and shared a video on social media in which she used unprintable language while criticising Java's involvement in Zim dancehall music, accusing him of taking the genre for granted and likening it to pornography."The said utterances by the accused person were in violation of the law," reads the State outline.As part of her bail conditions, Malloti was ordered to report to the police once every two weeks, reside at her given address, and refrain from interfering with State witnesses. While sometimes public events can yield some angry opinions, U.S. Rep. Mike Flood said he believes it's important to communicate with constituents, and that's what drives him to do public events like town halls and his Aug. 11 roundtable at the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. "Whether or not we agree is one thing but I think there's something cathartic in allowing somebody to have the ability to ask a question and get an answer and express their displeasure and I think it works both ways," Flood said. Flood started the conversation by announcing he was now chairman of the Main Street Caucus, one of five groups within the House of Representatives. This, he explained, allows him a better position to voice Nebraska's needs than simply being a member of Congress, whether that's to the president and his team, various agencies or sometimes other congress members and senators. "All of those things work together and when you're at the table, you have an opportunity to not only provide input but find out what's going on and then advocate for the interests of my constituents here," Flood said. In that position and before, Flood was able to advocate for $50 billion toward rural hospitals, which Columbus Community Hospital President and CEO Mike Hansen said was much needed. Total, it will bring $500 million to Nebraska over a span of five years, providing funding opportunities for hospitals in towns like Schuyler. Just before the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed in, Flood said he and several others were able to get that allotment for rural hospitals. It has some work requirements added on when it comes to Medicaid usage, he said. "My goal is to get our rural hospitals in front of Dr. (Mehmet) Oz (administrator of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services). One of the hospitals, it's not my district, but that I want to see get some help is Scottsbluff, it's challenged right now," Flood said. He and U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith are working to get Columbus Community Hospital listed as a critical access hospital with the CMMS. "When you first get to Congress, you don't have those connections because you're not in the room, but now that you're in the room, they pay more attention," Flood said. That money is to go to rural hospitals; however, Flood said he will be upset if the state ends up using it to do something like fill in a budget shortfall. This occasionally happens with a practice called re-appropriation, and requires a lot of consideration and work. The budget was trimmed quite a bit, he added, which means things like this fund can be set up easier, but it wasn't easy. "We did cut $2 trillion out of the budget. So when you cut that much money, you've got a little extra space to be able to try and focus on priorities, and one of those priorities is rural hospitals. So I hope people in Nebraska recognize that we are paying close attention to the needs of rural communities, and hopefully Nebraska will be able to use this money in the right way," Flood said. Housing is another issue Flood is passionate about, and Columbus is the poster child for housing reform in his opinion. Mayor Jim Bulkley said Columbus is looking at 1,200 to 1,500 doors in the next six or seven years, in bits and pieces. Flood said there are a series of issues contributing to the larger housing issue. One is paying workers and/or homeowners a competitive wage, which Columbus is doing, he noted. The second is Section Three requirement that work crews hire people who are nearly indigent, Flood said, which often means a skill gap as someone is hired simply to meet a requirement. "These two things compete against each other. I think we all want people to have good jobs and get good pay but when you have to go find somebody that is living in poverty and then pay them a prevailing wage, there's a skill gap there," Flood said. The third hurdle is the Build America, Buy America Act, which puts requirements in place about buying American supplies only. As much as Flood said he supports the idea, it raises costs by a significant amount, and he believes builders should have the option available to buy from wherever they can get supplies. The fourth issue Flood sees is the environmental review when building. As an example, he said, were someone to build a housing structure near a 100-year-old existing structure, an environmental review would have to be conducted on the older structure to decide if the new one can be built. Flood has worked with U.S. Rep. Emanual Cleaver from Missouri to start dismantling some of these "hurdles" to housing reform. With the Senate having recently written a housing bill, the House will hopefully have one soon as well, Flood said, with those changes. Flood said that federal flood insurance is pointed in a good direction at the moment. Many people utilize it every year, primarily in the Hurricane Alley of the southern United States, but it does work for those it helps, he said, and he'd like to see it continue that way. Congress recently renewed Federal Terrorism Insurance, which Flood was happy to report has had zero claims since its inception. Flood said he will have to do more "homework" on GSE (government-supported enterprise) reform, as President Donald Trump is considering an initial public offering (IPO) of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the leading forces behind mortgages. One thing he is certain of, Flood said, is that the topic needs to be approached delicately. "The one thing I get from all the bankers and all the GSEs is everybody likes the idea of privatization, which sounds awesome, but when you really drill down, they want the federal government on the hook and that's not privatization," Flood said. "We have to be very careful, we have this beautiful thing called the 30-year fixed mortgage that a lot of countries don't have and we take it for granted." Flood added some brief infrastructure updates, such as the development of Highway 275 into a four-lane rather than two-lane highway. After that's finished, he said, the next project is Highway 81 south of Columbus leading to York. His final topic for the group was short, but something he believes is critical: the need for people running for legislative positions. It's quite an experience, Flood said, and he may not have run if he hadn't already been in the state legislature, which is why he wants to see the landscape change for those who want to do good at that level. "It's hard to get good people to want to put their name on the ballot and we've got to figure out how to tone down some of this rhetoric, because I'm talking to people all over the state about, 'You should think about this,' and (they say) 'I don't want to put my family through it. I don't want to put my business through it. I don't want to,' It's a real challenge," Flood said. "It's something we have to figure out, because we need good people who want to do this." A sudden outbreak of chikungunya virus has swept through southern China, with more than 7,000 cases confirmed in Guangdong province since July, prompting local authorities to roll out public health measures reminiscent of the strict COVID-19 controls. The mosquito-borne illness, which causes severe joint pain, high fever and rash, has hit the city of Foshan hardest, fuelling fears of wider spread across the densely populated province. Officials have moved swiftly, isolating patients under mosquito nets, tracking medicine sales through real-name registration and unleashing drones to detect hidden breeding sites, all in a bid to halt transmission before it spirals out of control. Cases Surge in Guangdong Province According to BBC News, Guangdong has recorded 7,716 chikungunya infections in 2025 so far. From 27 July to early August alone, 2,892 new cases emerged. Foshan City has been the hardest hit, reporting 2,770 of those new infections. Other cities including Guangzhou and Zhanjiang have also seen rising numbers. Health officials believe the outbreak began after an imported case triggered local transmission in July. On Monday, 4 August, Hong Kong confirmed its first imported case in a boy who had recently returned from Foshan with fever, rash and joint pain. Despite the sharp rise, most cases are described as mild, and no deaths have been reported. COVID-Style Measures to Stop Spread Taking inspiration from pandemic-era measures, hospitals in Foshan are admitting all chikungunya patients and keeping them isolated under mosquito nets until they test negative or have spent at least seven days in care. Real-name registration for purchasing symptom-relief medicines has been introduced to help track potential cases. Public health teams have been dispatched to remove stagnant water, a prime breeding ground for the Aedes mosquitoes that spread the virus. Officials have warned of fines of up to 10,000 yuan (1,080) for failing to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Innovative control measures have also been rolled out, including releasing mosquito-eating fish into lakes and using drones to locate pools of standing water. Although authorities have floated quarantine advisories, some restrictions on travellers have already been eased. How Chikungunya Spreads The chikungunya virus is primarily transmitted by bites from infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which are also known to spread dengue and Zika. The virus is not spread directly from person to person, except in rare cases of mother-to-child transmission during childbirth. Prevention relies heavily on avoiding mosquito bites by using repellents, sleeping under nets, wearing long sleeves and removing standing water near homes. Symptoms Can Linger for Months Symptoms typically appear three to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. Early signs include sudden high fever, severe joint pain that can be debilitating, rash, headache, swollen joints and muscle pain. While most patients recover within a week, joint pain can last for months or even years. Vulnerable groups, including newborns, the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions, are at greater risk of complications. Fortunately, deaths from chikungunya are rare. No Specific Cure Yet There is currently no antiviral medication for chikungunya. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms with pain relief and fever-reducing medication. In Foshan, patients are not discharged until they either test negative for the virus or complete a week in isolation. Early diagnosis and prompt isolation are considered critical in preventing further spread. Could It Become a Pandemic? Since it was first identified in 1952, chikungunya has caused outbreaks in more than 110 countries, affecting regions in Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Americas and parts of Europe. The presence of Aedes mosquitoes worldwide and increasing international travel mean the risk of imported cases remains. However, unlike COVID-19, chikungunya cannot spread directly from person to person, making large-scale global transmission less likely. Chinese health officials say the outbreak in Guangdong appears to be under control thanks to aggressive mosquito control measures and a decline in new cases. Experts believe that with continued vigilance, personal protection and environmental management, a pandemic is unlikely. Schools and workplaces have remained open, with an emphasis on prevention rather than lockdowns. The Bigger Picture The outbreak in Guangdong highlights the ongoing threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases and the need for rapid, coordinated public health responses. While chikungunya does not have the same explosive transmission potential as airborne viruses, its debilitating symptoms and potential for long-term effects make it a serious concern. The response in Foshan and surrounding areas offers a model for targeted, science-based interventions that balance public safety with maintaining daily life. Originally published on IBTimes UK BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China now boasts the world's largest and most comprehensive marine industrial system after years of development, said Ma Weichen, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission. Ma made the remarks on the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency. The preliminary count shows that China already has all 15 major marine industries, the official added. In 2024, China's gross ocean product surpassed 10 trillion yuan (about 1.4 trillion U.S. dollars) for the first time, more than double the figure recorded in 2012, Ma noted. China's marine industries are gaining remarkable momentum. In 2024, Chinese shipbuilders topped globally in all three traditional metrics -- completion volume, new orders and order backlog -- each holding more than half of the global market share, with new orders alone exceeding 70 percent, according to Ma. China's marine ecological environment continues to improve. In 2024, 83.7 percent of China's coastal waters met the "good to excellent" quality standard, up 12.4 percentage points from 2018, Ma added. Russian President Vladimir Putin and US counterpart Donald Trump will hold "one-on-one" talks aimed at settling the Ukraine conflict when they meet for their landmark summit in Alaska on Friday, the Kremlin said. The meeting, set to take place at a US air base outside of Anchorage, marks Putin's first trip to a Western country since his February 2022 assault on Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday, is not scheduled to take part. After nearly three-and-a-half years of fighting, which has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths, Trump on Wednesday urged Putin to accept a peace deal or face "very severe consequences". The Kremlin said the talks were due to start at 11:30 am (1930 GMT) Friday. "This conversation will take place in a one-on-one format, naturally with the participation of interpreters," Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters. "This will be followed by negotiations between the delegations, which will continue over a working breakfast," Ushakov added. He said it was "probably obvious to everyone that the central topic will be the resolution of the Ukraine crisis" although broader issues around peace and security would also be discussed. Putin and Trump will give a joint press conference following their meeting, during which they will "summarise the results of the negotiations", Ushakov said. Putin on Thursday welcomed US efforts to end the Ukraine conflict. "The US administration... in my view is making quite energetic and sincere efforts to end the fighting," he told a meeting of top officials. He also suggested that following talks with the US could result in an agreement on nuclear arms control. On the eve of the summit, Ukraine fired dozens of drones at Russia, wounding several people and sparking fires at an oil refinery in the southern city of Volgograd. Russia meanwhile said its troops had captured two new settlements in eastern Ukraine, where it has been advancing for months. Zelensky, who has refused to cede territory to Russia as part of a peace deal, met with UK Prime Minister Starmer earlier Thursday. Starmer greeted the Ukrainian leader with a warm hug and handshake on the steps of his Downing Street residence. Following their talks, Starmer wrote on X: "Britain will always stand with Ukraine." The meeting came a day after European leaders and Trump held a virtual conference by phone. A stepped-up Russian offensive and Zelensky's exclusion from Friday's Alaska meeting, have heightened fears in Europe that Trump and Putin could strike a deal that forces painful concessions on Ukraine. The US leader initially said there would be some "land swapping going on", but appeared to have walked that back after speaking with European leaders on Wednesday. Speaking after Wednesday's conference, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said Trump had indicated there "would be no discussion of territories" during the summit. "Another key signal was that President Trump is seeking a ceasefire," he said. Trump suggested there might be a second meeting involving both Zelensky and Putin if the first was successful. "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 on Wednesday. Russia said Thursday it had returned 84 prisoners to Ukraine in exchange for an equal number of Russian POWs, the latest in a series of swaps that have seen hundreds released this year IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) announces the expansion of its voco hotels brand to Phuket, Thailand, in partnership with AssetWise Public Company Limited and its subsidiary Rhom Bho Property Public Company Limited - one of the country's leading residential and real estate companies. Set to open in 2029, the 175-key voco Phuket Bangtao will welcome guests in the upscale lifestyle destination of Bangtao, along the West Coast of Phuket. It's the third signing for voco hotels - IHG's fastest-growing premium brand - in the country, and the first in Phuket, joining a portfolio of more than 180 open and pipeline properties globally since its launch in 2018. A 30-minute drive from Phuket International Airport, voco Phuket Bangtao will be situated in the heart of Bangtao, well known as a lifestyle-led destination with beautiful white sand beaches, vibrant beach clubs and great restaurants & bars. With 175 rooms and suites, facilities will include a restaurant, lounge and bar, spa, swimming pool and fitness centre. With 40 open hotels across nine brands and 41 properties in its pipeline, Thailand is a key growth market for IHG which is aiming to double its estate across the country in the next few years. voco hotels is set to make its brand debut in Thailand with voco Bangkok Surawong this year. * Figures as of 30 June 2025 Hotel website Hilton (NYSE: HLT) and Ayala Land Hospitality have announced the signing of Canopy by Hilton Makati in Metro Manila, an economic and cultural gateway to major financial institutions, multinational companies and vibrant street life. Scheduled to open in 2026, Canopy by Hilton Makati will rise above the bustling One Ayala development, a new landmark development where culture, creativity, and commerce converge in Makati's most vibrant neighborhood. Canopy by Hilton is known for stylish, locally-connected stays that reflect the spirit of the locale. With more than 40 hotels open across 14 countries and territories and more than 40 more in the pipeline, each Canopy hotel is different by design, thoughtfully tailored to its setting. Canopy Makati carries that spirit forward with a perspective that's rooted in warm hospitality, full of energy, and infused with modern design and a bold perspective. "Introducing our Canopy brand to the Philippines is a significant milestone, especially in such a vibrant junction in the heart of Makati. Metro Manila is ripe for a fresh perspective on hospitality, and we believe Canopy's lifestyle approach will resonate with both local and international guests. This launch also marks the beginning of a meaningful partnership with Ayala Land Hospitality, who are passionate stewards of the Canopy vision," said Maria Ariizumi, vice president, Development, South East Asia, Hilton. Spanning 24 storeys and 400 stylishly designed rooms and suites, the hotel will feature a mix of sleek urban escapes to spacious suites blending contemporary comfort with materials and artwork inspired by Manila's creative and cultural scene. The hotel will also become a new hub for the city's social and food scene. Locals and guests alike can explore a destination restaurant, rooftop bar with skyline views, and hidden speakeasy that channels Manila's eclectic energy. More than just places to dine and drink, these spaces will play host to Manila's creative pulse. From DJ sets to stylish social events and modern cultural activations, Canopy by Hilton Makati will be a gathering place where the city comes to life. Guests can unwind at the pool deck or recharge at the hotel's high-performance gym with top-tier equipment and engaging group classes. For gatherings that break the mold, Canopy Manila's reimagined meeting spaces draw on local creative inspiration for meetings and offsites or weddings and celebrations that are as vibrant and memorable as the city itself. Canopy by Hilton hotels participate in Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton's 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, exclusive member discounts, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app. Hotel website Guests of L'Auberge de Sedona, owned by DiamondRock Hospitality Company and managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, have it made in the metaphorical shade thanks to the resort's new partnership with the luxury sunscreen line Sonrei. Launched this month, the partnership sees Sonrei sunscreen featured throughout the creekside property, including at L'Apothecary Spa, lobby retail spaces, locker rooms, and the resort's outdoor pool. Key to the new partnership is the designation of Sonrei Co-Founder Dustin Holt as "Chief Suncare Officer" of L'Auberge de Sedona. With his decades of experience in the pharmaceutical dermatology field, Holt is a font of information and encouragement for guests intent to protect against UV damage amid fun in the sun in Sedona. Introducing Sonrei and the Chief Suncare Officer Based in Santa Barbara, California, and taking its name from the Spanish word for "smile," Sonrei purveys an extensive line of eco-conscious formulations that deliver precise, broad-spectrum coverage, merging science and sophistication. In collaboration with Sonrei, we welcome Dustin Holt, Co-Founder of Sonrei, as L'Auberge de Sedona's first-ever Chief Suncare Officer. With decades of experience in pharmaceutical dermatology, Dustin is a sun-safety expert and passionate advocate for conscious skincare. His mission: to guide guests on how to enjoy Sedona's natural beauty safely, with confidence and care. His guidance lives in the detailslike thoughtfully placed Sonrei SPF dispensers at the pool, curated sun protection options in our retail spaces, and personalized product recommendations integrated into the spa journey. Guests are empowered to make sun safety a seamless part of their wellness experience. Sun-Protection 101 L'Auberge de Sedona's Chief Suncare Officer is lending his expertise to discerning resort goers, providing top tips and tricks on best practices and common misconceptions about sun safety. His top advice for outdoor enthusiasts includes: Spray is Not Enough - The number one suncare mistake people make on vacation, especially when using mist or spray, is failing to apply them evenly or adequately. Rubbing in sunscreen after spraying is essential to ensure full, even coverage. - The number one suncare mistake people make on vacation, especially when using mist or spray, is failing to apply them evenly or adequately. Rubbing in sunscreen after spraying is essential to ensure full, even coverage. Apply Early, Generously and Often - Sunscreen should go on at least 15-30 minutes prior to exposure. And don't skimp: use enough to cover all exposed skin. Reapplication every two hours is also key to protecting against harmful UV rays. - Sunscreen should go on at least 15-30 minutes prior to exposure. And don't skimp: use enough to cover all exposed skin. Reapplication every two hours is also key to protecting against harmful UV rays. Careful Not to Miss Spots - Pay close attention to areas of the body such as the ears, back of the neck, the tops of hands and feet, and scalps beneath thinning hair. Such commonly forgotten spots need protection, too. - Pay close attention to areas of the body such as the ears, back of the neck, the tops of hands and feet, and scalps beneath thinning hair. Such commonly forgotten spots need protection, too. No Cloudy Days Off - It is a popular misconception that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days or for outdoor activities. Harmful UV rays can penetrate clouds, windows, even certain clothing. The newly renovated Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street announces the appointment of Ruth Raposo as the hotel's new hotel manager. A hospitality veteran with more than 28 years of experience with Hilton, Raposo will oversee all aspects of the hotel's operations, including guest services, staff management and strategic planning. In her most recent role, Raposo served as director of operationsat Beach House Fort Lauderdale, a Hilton Resort, previously Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, following earlier leadership roles as director of front office operations and director of housekeeping at the same property. She has also held management positions at The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, Curio Collection by Hilton and Hilton Boston Back Bay, where she began her hospitality career. With a passion for excellence, Raposo is a proud graduate of Hilton's SHINE 2 development program for general managers, further strengthening her leadership skills and strategic focus. Originally from Boston, she has been part of the South Florida hospitality community since relocating to Fort Lauderdale in 2012. Her appointment follows the hotel's recent multimillion-dollar renovation, which introduced redesigned public spaces, updated guest suites, refreshed meeting venues and the debut of a new signature restaurant, TASTE Restaurant & Bar. The reimagined property now offers a modern tropical retreat in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, appealing to leisure, business and cruise travelers alike. Nizar Weshah has been appointed as Hyatt's area vice president for Saudi Arabia. In addition to his new responsibilities, he will continue as general manager of the Grand Hyatt Al Khobar Hotel and Residences. In his expanded role, Weshah will oversee Hyatt's operational strategy, performance and expansion plans across the Kingdom, including portfolio development, market positioning and operational efficiency across both existing and upcoming properties. With over 26 years of international hospitality experience, Weshah has held senior leadership roles in Jordan, Azerbaijan, Serbia, Oman and Saudi Arabia. Over the past 17 years, he has been instrumental in Hyatt's operations in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar, focusing on operational efficiency, guest service standards and mentoring Saudi nationals to build a pipeline of local talent in the industry. Hyatt stated that the appointment supports its commitment to Vision 2030 by prioritising sustainable growth, local talent development and innovation in tourism. The company plans to strengthen its presence in Saudi Arabia through leadership appointments, local partnerships and performance-driven operations. Saudi Arabia's expanding tourism sector, supported by large-scale developments and infrastructure investment, is positioning the country as a global destination for business and leisure travel. Weshah's expanded remit will contribute to Hyatt's role in this growth. Hyatt has expanded its lifestyle offering by integrating Bunkhouse Hotels into its World of Hyatt loyalty programme, enabling members to earn and redeem points at participating properties across Texas and Mexico. Bunkhouse Hotels, known for their highly localised design, music-led programming, and community-focused events, bring a distinctive creative identity to Hyatts growing lifestyle portfolio. The addition follows the May integration of The Standard and The StandardX brands, marking another step in Hyatts strategy to strengthen its positioning in the boutique and experiential hospitality segment. Bunkhouse Hotels are nothing short of beloved in the communities they serve. We are excited to introduce these one-of-a-kind properties to our World of Hyatt members. Amar Lalvani, President & Creative Director of Hyatts Lifestyle Portfolio Loyalty Integration and Market Positioning Participating Bunkhouse Hotels will now offer full World of Hyatt benefits, including earning and redeeming points, elite-tier credits, Milestone Rewards, and participation in the Brand Explorer award programme. This move expands Hyatts footprint in high-demand leisure destinations, while enhancing the World of Hyatt proposition with authentic, culturally anchored guest experiences. Current participating properties include: Houston, Texas Hotel Saint Augustine (Category 6) Hotel Saint Augustine (Category 6) Austin, Texas Hotel Saint Cecilia (Category 7), Hotel San Jose (Category 5), Austin Motel (Category 5), Carpenter Hotel (Category 5) Hotel Saint Cecilia (Category 7), Hotel San Jose (Category 5), Austin Motel (Category 5), Carpenter Hotel (Category 5) Todos Santos, Mexico Hotel San Cristobal (Category 7) Hotel San Cristobal (Category 7) Mexico City, Mexico Hotel San Fernando (Category 4) Additional hotels, including Hotel Magdalena (Austin), Hotel Havana (San Antonio), and the upcoming Hotel Daphne (Houston), will join at later dates. Experiential Loyalty Activation To launch the partnership, Hyatt is offering four limited-time FIND Experiences via auction, designed to showcase Bunkhouses creative ethos and local connections. Packages include curated stays such as: Lone Star Luxury at Hotel Saint Augustine A three-night Houston itinerary featuring private art tours, bespoke cowboy boot fittings, and fine dining experiences. A three-night Houston itinerary featuring private art tours, bespoke cowboy boot fittings, and fine dining experiences. Vinyl & BBQ in Austin A four-night stay combined with private listening sessions, Michelin-starred barbecue experiences, and significant food & beverage credits. A four-night stay combined with private listening sessions, Michelin-starred barbecue experiences, and significant food & beverage credits. Hotel San Fernando Takeover in Mexico City Exclusive full-property buyout for up to 24 guests, with rooftop mixology and brunch experiences. Exclusive full-property buyout for up to 24 guests, with rooftop mixology and brunch experiences. Baja Wellness Escape at Hotel San Cristobal A beachfront retreat with private yoga, sound bath, spa treatments, and curated dining. Laurie Blair, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Hyatt, said the FIND packages are designed to offer World of Hyatt members a true taste of what Bunkhouse Hotels are all about, adding that the experiences align with Hyatts objective to deepen guest engagement through cultural immersion and distinctive programming. Austin Motel Jackie Young Brand Expansion and Future Development Bunkhouse Hotels integration comes as the brand continues to grow. The recently opened Hotel Saint Augustine in Houston has already earned recognition from Esquire, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living as one of the worlds best new hotels. Later this year, Hotel Daphne will debut in Houston, and Jos CoffeeBunkhouses Austin-born cafe brandwill open a new location near the University of Texas. For Hyatt, the move underlines a continued investment in lifestyle and boutique brands as demand for differentiated guest experiences remains strong in both leisure and blended-travel segments. The addition of Bunkhouse Hotels is expected to strengthen Hyatts appeal to younger, design-conscious travellers while providing loyalty members with unique stay options in competitive urban and resort markets. More details, including a full list of participating hotels and enrolment dates, can be found at: world.hyatt.com/bunkhouse. IHG Expands voco Brand to Thailand with Phuket Hotel Opening in 2029 - Image Credit IHG Hotels & Resorts IHG Hotels & Resorts plans to open a voco hotel in Phuket, Thailand, featuring 175 rooms, in 2029. IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced its plans to expand its voco brand into Thailand with a new hotel in Phuket. The property is expected to open by 2029 and will feature 175 rooms. The new voco hotel in Phuket will be part of IHG's strategy to increase its presence in key markets in Southeast Asia. The voco brand, which focuses on providing a relaxed and informal guest experience, will cater to both leisure and business travelers visiting the popular tourist destination. The planned hotel will offer amenities typical of the voco brand, including comfortable bedding and locally inspired welcome treats. The property will also feature vibrant bar and restaurant spaces designed to encourage social interaction among guests. Advertisement Further details regarding the specific location and design of the new voco hotel in Phuket are expected to be announced as the project progresses. IHG's expansion into Phuket aligns with the company's broader growth strategy, which includes increasing its footprint in high-demand locations. The voco brand, launched in 2018, has been expanding rapidly, with properties in various countries around the world. The introduction of voco hotels in Thailand is part of IHG's efforts to diversify its offerings and capture a larger share of the hospitality market in the region. The company currently operates several other brands in Thailand, including InterContinental, Holiday Inn, and Crowne Plaza. The voco hotel in Phuket will join IHG's existing portfolio of over 6,700 hotels worldwide, with more than 2,200 properties in the development pipeline. Melia Announces New Hotel Project in Lima, Peru - Image Credit Melia Hotels Melia Hotels International has signed an agreement to open a boutique hotel in Lima, Peru, under The Melia Collection brand, with phased openings in 2026 and 2027. Melia Hotels International has announced plans to open a new boutique hotel in Lima, Peru, as part of The Melia Collection brand. The project will be located in Lima's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and will be developed in two phases. The first phase is scheduled for completion in July 2026 and will include 61 rooms. The second phase, set for July 2027, will expand the hotel to a total of 107 rooms. The hotel will be situated near significant cultural landmarks, including the Plaza de Armas, Lima Cathedral, and the Government Palace. The site, known historically as Casa de la Pila, has been a notable location in Lima's cultural and intellectual history. It has been associated with various historical figures and events, including the early days of the newspaper El Comercio. The property will be managed by Melia Hotels International and owned by the Peruvian company Hoteles Bera, a collaboration between the Bernui-Tarazona and Ramos-Bernui families. The development has received support from PROMPERU, the Commission for the Promotion of Peru for Export and Tourism, highlighting its potential to enhance tourism in the area. This project marks Melia's first luxury hotel in Peru and is part of the company's broader strategy to expand its presence in Latin America. Melia currently operates two other hotels in Lima: Melia Lima and INNSiDE Miraflores. Canopy by Hilton to Open 2026 in Makati City, Philippines - Image Credit Hilton Hilton has announced plans to open the first Canopy by Hilton hotel in the Philippines, located in Makati City, by 2026. Hilton has entered into an agreement with Ayala Land Hospitality to introduce the Canopy by Hilton brand to the Philippines. The new hotel, Canopy by Hilton Makati, is scheduled to open in 2026 and will be situated in the One Ayala development in Makati City, Metro Manila. This development marks the brand's debut in the country. The Canopy by Hilton Makati will span 24 stories and include 400 rooms and suites. The hotel aims to integrate elements of Manila's cultural and creative scene into its design, offering a mix of urban and spacious accommodations. The property will feature a destination restaurant, a rooftop bar with views of the city skyline, and a speakeasy. These venues are intended to serve as social hubs for both locals and guests. Additional amenities at the hotel will include a pool deck and a gym equipped with modern facilities. The hotel will also offer meeting spaces designed to accommodate various events, drawing inspiration from local creative influences. The development of Canopy by Hilton Makati is part of a larger trend of international hotel brands expanding into the Philippines, which is seen as a growing market for tourism and hospitality. The strategic location in Makati City, a hub for financial and cultural activities, is expected to attract a diverse range of guests seeking both business and leisure experiences. Hilton's Canopy brand is known for its focus on providing locally inspired experiences, and the Makati location will continue this approach by incorporating elements that reflect the local culture and environment. The hotel will participate in the Hilton Honors program, offering benefits to members who book directly through Hilton's channels. San Francisco emerged as a standout performer among the top 25 markets, experiencing notable increases across all key metrics. - Image Credit Unsplash San Francisco leads with significant gains in hotel performance metrics, buoyed by major events. Houston experiences a sharp decline in occupancy and revenue, influenced by post-disaster recovery dynamics. The U.S. hotel industry reported a downturn in key performance metrics for the week ending August 9, 2025, as per CoStar's latest data. CoStar, a prominent provider of real estate analytics, highlighted a year-over-year decline in the sector's overall performance. During the week of August 3-9, 2025, the national hotel occupancy rate stood at 68.0%, marking a 1.0% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. The average daily rate (ADR) saw a slight dip of 0.6%, settling at $159.61, while revenue per available room (RevPAR) fell by 1.6% to $108.47. San Francisco emerged as a standout performer among the top 25 markets, experiencing notable increases across all key metrics. The city's occupancy surged by 12.8% to reach 81.5%, with ADR climbing 8.3% to $210.29 and RevPAR soaring by 22.2% to $171.38. This robust performance was largely driven by the influx of visitors attending the World Transplant Congress. Conversely, Houston faced the most significant challenges, with occupancy plummeting by 27.5% to 55.3% and RevPAR dropping 34.6% to $61.38. These declines were attributed to the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which had previously spurred a temporary increase in demand due to displacement. Overall, the U.S. hotel industry is navigating a complex landscape, with certain markets thriving due to event-driven demand while others struggle with lingering effects from past disruptions. Chicago, IL (60637) Today Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High 74F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low near 55F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Clarksburg School Sees Rise in Grant Funding CLARKSBURG, Mass. Like many school districts, Clarksburg has been holding its breath on grant funding. But the new is good. "We've gotten our numbers coming in for our grant allocations ... as you remember, part of our budget is we're banking on a certain amount of grants coming in," Assistant Superintendent Tara Barnes told the School Committee last Thursday. "This grant money is always a gamble, because we don't know until this time of year what amount we're getting." The good news, she said, is that the school district has received its grant allocations for everything so far except state Rural School Aid. There is an increase in federal Title I and II grants and IV is being level-funded. All three grants support students who are struggling with reading. The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) grants for special education came in slightly higher with the 240 general special education grant $200 more at $66,269 and the 262 grant for children with special needs age 3 to 5 at one dollar more. "Overall, it's a 4 percent increase from last year over what we received in terms of federal rates," said Barnes, adding another expected grant is up about $2,000 to $27,415 but "what we're waiting to hear about is the Rural Aid, it's bigger chunks of money than the other cups. ... "Historically, we've gotten around 140, 145 (thousand dollars) like in that area. So by my calculations, with what we've banked on getting, if we can just get $111,000 we'll hit our mark, and anything beyond that will be funds that we can use toward other things. So I think we're in a good shape, all in all." That was just for Clarksburg, she said, and the other Northern Berkshire School Union district's didn't fare as a well. "Everybody else went down a little bit." Clarksburg also got a boost in a Student Opportunity Act grant Barnes applied for in June. Only select districts were allowed to apply for an extra year of the original two-year grant. "We had a small pocket, like a million dollars of SOA funds that they had to distribute. Even though the grant was going for two years, they wanted to do a year three with some schools," she said. "I've done year one and year two, so we were allowed to apply. There were only 10 schools chosen. We were one of the schools chosen to receive and have that money, and the cap was $100,000 to share between the four schools [in the district]." She and Superintendent John Franzoni were recommending the district distribute the funds based on the percentages each town school pays into the union. Clarksburg would get 55 percent, with the balance shared proportionally between the town of Florida, Rowe and Savoy. Monroe's 4 percent would be split among the other four towns since it does not have a school building. This $55,000 will help with the school's "very tight budget" and school officials are determining where that money may best be spent. Kim Rougeau provided her first report at principal since taking over on July 1. The longtime Clarksburg teacher said she'd "jumped right in" prior to her start date and noted that her duties had also encompassed some project management with the ongoing roof replacement. "I'm getting comfortable in my role," she said. "Everything started to fall into place and I'm feeling really good." The summer program shortened because of the roof project had fewer students this year but everything was positive, Rougeau said, and she listed off a number of new hires and staffing changes within the building. The school currently has 213 registered students; it was fewer than 200 for nearly a decade, and as low as 163 in 2016, before climbing in the last few years. "I anticipate more, I see a lot of for sale signs," the principal said. Administrators are reviewing enrollment documentation to ensure that only Clarksburg and accepted school-choice students are attending the school. The school's been running into issues with students being enrolled who do not actually live in the town. "Because of our numbers situation in the school, where there's one classroom for a grade level and they're all full, you have to question to make sure that the application packages are filled out thoroughly," said Franzoni. "It's not just a building numbers issue, it's not just a financial issue. It's also a safety issue. "If you're in the situation with a child at school and you want to make sure that the child is safe, well, or whatever may be the case, and the family hasn't provided us with accurate information about where they actually live. That's dangerous." The meeting also discussed the potential for collaboration in special education to reduce out-of-district placements; hiring an interim business administrator; review of a corrective action plan for the cafeteria and new point-of-sale software; the hiring of a new adjustment counselor to replace a contracted company; the replacement of the flooring in the kindergarten wing and a donation by Mountain View Painters to paint the classrooms; reaching out to the McCann Technical School carpentry program to create a welcome sign and planters at the entrance; the town's Department of Public Works stabilizing the school sign and replanting flowers; and the possibility of getting digital signage. The school union will be undergoing a feasibility study with North Adams Public Schools and Hoosac Valley Regional School District on possible consolidation in Grades 7 through 12. This is being funded through a $100,000 earmark from the Fair Share Act, with possibly more funding available. School committees will be voting on joining the study in the next couple months; any recommendations coming out of the study would also have to be approved by the participating towns. State Rep. Leigh Davis takes questions at the Stationery Factory in Dalton on Monday. State Rep. Davis Emphasizes Collaboration Through Uncertain Future State Rep. Leigh Davis says feedback from constituents has informed the bills she filed in her first year in office and she will continue to hold 'min town halls' to discuss to solutions to pressing issues. DALTON, Mass. Collaboration and creative thinking will light the way forward through an uncertain future. This sentiment was demonstrated by Berkshire Third District's Rep. Leigh Davis during her community conversation event at the Stationery Factory on Monday. "I think with the next 3 1/2 years, there's going to be a lot of change, and there's going to be a lot of transition we can come together as a community and know that we have each other and we can talk to each other and take these priorities and try to work on it, piece by piece, step by step," Davis said. Residents' questions reflected their perceptions of an ominous future, with concerns surrounding the costs of health care and infrastructure, funding cuts, affordable housing, immigration, environmental and climate issues, and other pressing issues. "We have a lot of challenges. We have a declining population. We have challenges with our schools. We have the loss of our mills and the loss of a lot of our economic development," Davis said."We do have challenges, but it doesn't mean that it has to be stagnant. It just means that we need to be creative and maybe have a little bit more shared services, look at a regional basis. "So, I think that it's really challenging, and I haven't lost hope. I think that we have so much to offer the rest of the commonwealth, and we just need to keep reminding them that, and we need to think out of the box, and we need to be creative and be strong." The Great Barrington Democrat provided participants with an inside look at what life is like on Beacon Hill and as a state representative. "I have an aide that works in the State House, her name is Serena Keenan. She's wonderful and she is kind of holding the constituent services together," the representative said. "So part of this presentation will be talking a little bit about what she does, because I think people don't realize the amount of emails and correspondence that we get as legislators." Keenan goes through about 70 emails a day, Davis said. The Berkshire Third District is one of the largest districts in the House, covering 18 towns across South Berkshire and north into Dalton. "When you hear about Western Mass and you hear about regional equity, that's something we have to take into account that representation here has those additional challenges," Davis said. Despite being the newcomer to Beacon Hill, Davis has already paved a way forward since her election in November. "I was sworn in on Jan. 1, and straight away, they gave us a deadline for bills to be filed, and usually freshmen [or] first-year legislators don't file a lot of bills of anything," the former Select Board member said. Her peers reassured her that it was OK to listen and learn. They emphasized that if she wasn't ready to file anything yet, that was OK, too. But after a year of campaigning, Davis used insights from conversations about her community's concerns to begin writing legislation. "I don't have a background in law but we are very, very fortunate to have House counsel in the State House," Davis said. Davis took the community's major concerns and started to turn out bills to address them. "I ended up, I think, filing 24 bills in those 15 days, which is pretty substantial. And it was a lot of late nights. It was a lot of conversations with advocates. It was a lot of work with the House counsel," she said. "Through that hard work, I was very grateful that the Boston Globe flagged me as a lawmaker to watch, as well as MassLive. And I think that they saw the momentum that was being really built up in this district." Davis emphasized the importance of conversation to discover solutions. For example, the five bills that Davis filed on the reforming of emergency medical services comes from direct conversations with EMS providers and through a regionalization process that the Third Berkshire District began, she said. She explained the slow two-year legislative process that bills have to progress. If a bill is not advanced within that timeframe, it must be refiled, making the process almost like a race to get approved. Davis has been assigned to four committees: federal funding, state administration, election laws, and climate action and sustainability. "You think about the 18 towns. There's a lot of work, and there's a lot of connections you're making," she said. These "mini town halls" are a way for the community to feel connected and together, she said, and to demonstrate to her constituents that they have a leader who is listening and working to find solutions to their concerns. "I can't solve it alone, but I can solve it with the Legislature. I can solve it listening to you, and we can be creative," Davis said. "This is what community is about. I mean, this is why we are here. We all are so lucky to be living in this region, the Berkshires." State officials are still unraveling the impact the Trump administration's "Big Beautiful Bill" will have on the Massachusetts. However, officials are anticipating losing money quite rapidly in the next 3 1/2 years, Davis said. "So, one of the biggest fears that I have [and] other colleagues have, is the 9C cuts, which would enable cuts [by the governor] to happen mid-budget year," she said. This could affect local aid and quasi-public agencies. There is some cushion set in the budget to prepare for that so that the state is as strong as it can be, considering what is happening, she said. The Legislature passed a fiscal 2026 budget of $61 billion, which includes an approximately $800 million cushion to prepare for inevitable federal funding cuts, Davis said. "Our health care is killing our budgets in our cities and towns," Select Board Chair Robert Bishop said. The town's group health insurance had an increase of 19 percent this year. It was previously reported that health insurance costs are going up substantially statewide. However, Dalton is at the high end compared to other municipalities because of "several relatively large claims." Like many areas in the state, infrastructure is another concern, but it is not one that is going unaddressed. Select Board member John Boyle pointed out the more than $1 billion transportation and infrastructure bill signed by Gov. Maura Healey. Of that, $300 million is Chapter 90 aid for "critical transportation and infrastructure funding to every city and town across the state," the Healey administration said in a press release. A significant aspect of the bill is its change to the Chapter 90 funding formula, which will enable $100 million of the total investment to be allocated based exclusively on road miles, an added benefit for rural communities. "You look at the importance of that change in funding formula, so that we get the money that we deserve. So, most of the 18 towns in the Third Berkshire District will see between 70 percent and 90 percent increase this year in their Chapter 90. So, that is significant," Davis said. "There's also a significant increase in money for culverts and small bridges. Now, the Accelerated Bridge Program, that is one of the bills that I've put forward that's separate, but at least we know that the governor, in particular, is paying attention and that our advocacy is working." One concern that several community members raised is the situation with immigration, which has "taken a turn." Opinions vary based on where people are, but Davis said there is a lot of fear in communities that need to be addressed. Those being taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement are "folks that have kids in schools that work in our shops we know deeply that they are our neighbors," Davis said. "Since the beginning of President Trump's term, there has been a 336 percent increase in immigration arrests, and due to ICE's goal of deporting 1 million immigrants per year, it works out to 3,000 people per day that are being affected right now." From a state perspective, there are not many things lawmakers can do because of the federal powers that ICE has. "Whatever we can do as a state, we're trying to do when it comes to ICE coming into the community, there's not a lot that we can do as a community. I know that there's a bill right now trying to unmask ICE that is, unfortunately, not anything we can do. It sounds great, and we all want that, but that's unfortunately nothing that we can control," she said. "Thank goodness for the attorney general and the other AGs across the country that are time and time and time and again putting forth court cases and challenging what's happening." Davis said that, based on communication with groups working with immigrants on the ground, there is an effort to ensure that these individuals have access to essential resources, such as food, education, legal aid, and other services. "Check on your neighbors, help out your food pantries, talk to your schools, make sure that the people that are feeling vulnerable know that you're here for them," she said. "So, it's a really, really, really tough situation right now, and we're already seeing the effect in terms of small businesses losing their employees. We're seeing small businesses shutter. We're seeing landscape companies not being able to do their jobs, and this is only the beginning." The city has awarded the contract for a temporary fix to the Brown Street bridge. The repairs are hoped to be completed 'before the snow flies,' says the mayor. North Adams Mayor Updates Council on Bridges NORTH ADAMS, Mass. Mayor Jennifer Macksey clarified the two diverse projects for the Veterans Memorial Bridge and the expectation of the Brown Street bridge being repaired. "We have a contract underway," she told the City Council on Tuesday night. "Our apparent low bidder for the Brown Street bridge repair is J.H. Maxymillian, and no one have a heart attack, $349,920. We are putting together contract documents and funding sources as we speak, but we hope to have that started very, very soon and open before snow flies." The bridge has been closed for more than two years after being found "structurally deficient" by the state Department of Transportation. The 26-foot steel structure's poor condition was well known at the time and it was listed with 19 other bridges in the Berkshires requiring repairs or replacement using funding from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The bridge had been listed for superstructure replacement at an estimated $1 million by MassDOT in 2021 but is now part of a single project with several Berkshire bridges for "preservation" with a 2027 construction date. Councilor Keith Bona questioned the low figure for the work and the mayor said it is be for a temporary repair. "It's repairing some of the saddles underneath and some of the footings, the footings on one side of the bridge," she said. "The problem with that bridge was weight limit. One saddle was holding like three sides, three areas. So we're excited to get that done, especially with EMS, and, God forbid we have another flood, we need to be able to access both sides, and it's been very, very difficult for us to navigate." Brown Street connects Route 2 with River Street; Northern Berkshire EMS is headquartered almost directly across from the closed bridge. The mayor said the city has some state Chapter 90 road funds that can be used for the project. She had been concerned that the cost would come in at half-million. "We're at a good point now," she said. Macksey also noted that the bridge is still on the Transportation Improvement Plan so she didn't think it would be another 10 years to get it replaced, "but at least we can get it open and accessible." The fixes to the Veterans Memorial Bridge will also be temporary, she said, in clarifying why the city is both looking to repair the structure and to tear it down. "What we call the Reconnecting Communities grant, which its focus is basically a study of the overpass, but its secondary focus is a study of our transportation systems to and through and from North Adams," said Macksey. "So not only is it studying the bridge and what could or couldn't be is also studying our traffic patterns at I call them our six touch points of intersections throughout the downtown." Stoss Landscape Urbanism was selected to conduct the federally funded study and should have a first draft of recommendations to the mayor's office next week. Macksey said she expects a final report around Sept. 30, after which Stoss will be invited to give a presentation to the council. What's causing confusion was the MassDOT public hearing on July 25, at which engineers laid out plans for a "temporary" repair at a cost of $19 million. Macksey, who did not attend the hearing, said the 60-year-old bridge was submitted to TIP when she first worked for the city more than 20 years ago. "So that's how long ago that we've been waiting for this," she said. "We have two projects going kind of at the same time, and people need to remember that Reconnecting Communities is a feasibility study, whereas the MassDOT project is an actual physical construction project." The mayor said she could tell MassDOT not to do the project but there's no guarantee funding will come through for Reconnecting Communities. Plus, the temporary repair of one set of saddles done by District 1 is only expected to last 12 to 18 months and doesn't touch the other saddles that are also in disrepair. "So at any time, when we have an inspection, MassDOT could say, now you have a problem on the other side, or they could come in and say, the load is shifting too much. You have to close the bridge," she said. "With Reconnecting Communities this is a feasibility study. We don't have any money earmarked. We don't have any money in the pipeline. And it's not just about the bridge. It's about transportation and connecting all those touch points. ... "We're building a vision, and from that vision, then we get the funding to execute and have outcomes. But the just the permitting piece for taking down the bridge could take a whole other year. That's a year I don't have for the bridge repair." Councilor Ashley Shade said the focus was on safety: "We need it to be safe for people to use, until the bridge comes down, if we decide that we don't want it anymore, rather than letting it crumble and fall apart and causing safety and hazards and things of that nature." The mayor said she "inherited three bad bridges" and that infrastructure issues always remain. But it doesn't mean the city is abandoning Reconnecting Communities. MassDOT anticipates going out to bid in the winter and beginning construction in early spring. Plans are to keep at least one lane of the bridge open and divert traffic over the West Main Street spur to the Main Street intersection. In other business, the mayor read a proclamation for the 50th anniversary of the Friends of the North Adams Library. The Friends will have a celebration on Friday at 4:30 on the library lawn, followed by a talk by columnist and author Joyce Maynard in the banquet room at Hotel Downstreet at 6 p.m. The mayor announced the appointment of Councilor Andrew Fitch to the Airport Commission to fill the unexpired term of William Diamond. The commission has lost most of its members and been unable to convene a quorum to meet. Macksey said it was not usual to appoint a sitting councilor but Fitch has been passionate about the airport. "Andrew has a unique background, as he's worked at the Marshfield municipal airport when he was in high school and college, and he's done everything from mowing lawns to tying down aircraft to communicating to pilots on radios. And has a good overview of what it takes to run an airport," she said. "We talked about a short temporary appointment, but one that is very positive and helps us. So his biggest charge is going to be to join the other commissioners in helping us hire an airport manager." Fitch said he'd offered his service, feeling the airport is worth focusing on despite the struggles the commission has had. He noted the economic output of Harriman and West, based on MassDOT data, was "staggering" at $11,259,000, with $3.6 million in salaries and $467,000 in sales and income tax. "This is a real driver for our economy, providing some great jobs for people around here," he said. "So that's why I'm so excited about this and passionate about this. ... It's a hard challenge, but I think it's worth it, one that's worth fighting for." Epson, the leading brand for document scanners in ASEAN, has launched its latest A4 document scanners, the WorkForce DS-1730 and DS-1760WN, designed to optimize business efficiency with fast and flexible scanning solutions. New compact document scanners streamline business workflows with high-speed scanning, versatile media handling, and eco-conscious design. Engineered to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces, these compact scanners deliver impressive speeds of up to 30 pages per minute with the automatic document feeder (ADF) and up to 7 seconds per page using the flatbed. The 60-sheet ADF enables seamless, high-volume scanning, while the integrated flatbed allows for the digitization of delicate or thick items. With user-friendly features such as an intuitive 2.4-inch LCD touchscreen and PC-less operation available on the DS-1760WN, the new WorkForce models offer businesses a reliable and efficient path to digital document management. Fast and reliable scanning for enhanced productivity The WorkForce DS-1730 and DS-1760WN are designed to optimize workflows for both individuals and businesses. With their compact design, these models offer flexible media handling, supporting everything from mixed-size and long documents via the ADF to thick or delicate items such as photos, ID cards, and booklets through the integrated flatbed. Advanced features include one-pass duplex scanning for increased efficiency, text enhancement for improved clarity, document edge correction, and punch hole removal, ensuring high-quality digital outputs in every scan. The continuous scanning feature allows users to combine documents scanned from both the ADF and flatbed into a single file, increasing flexibility and efficiency. To further enhance the user experience, both models feature image sensor glass dirt detection. This notifies users of any dirt on the glass surface to reduce the risk of poor image quality and minimize the need for re-scanning. Additionally, the scanners can detect and crop multiple items of varying sizes in a single scan, saving time and boosting productivity. Equipped with advanced document management solutions With Document Capture Pro, users can automate scanning workflows with up to 30 customizable scan jobs, convert documents into searchable PDFs or editable Office documents using built-in optical character recognition (OCR), and send scanned images directly to cloud storage services, email, or network folders. The scanners also support advanced job separation, barcode and Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) recognition, as well as flexible file naming and sorting options. The DS-1760WN further enhances productivity with ScanWay, enabling PC-less operation by direct scanning to network folders, USB drives, cloud or email using the scanner control panel without the use of a computer. User-centric and eco-conscious design Epsons commitment to sustainability and user-centric design is evident in the WorkForce DS-1730 and DS-1760WN. With up to 30% of the main body constructed from recycled plastics, these scanners offer an eco-conscious solution without compromising on compactness or performance, making them an ideal choice for businesses seeking to reduce their environmental impact. At Epson, we understand that businesses today demand not only speed and efficiency but also sustainable solutions that fit seamlessly into a modern workspace. The WorkForce DS-1730 and DS-1760WN exemplify our commitment to innovation, delivering compact, high-performance scanning technology that optimizes workflows while reducing environmental impact, said Noelle Gonzalez, Head of Marketing at Epson Philippines Corporation (EPC). Epson is proud to be the No. 1 document scanner brand in Southeast Asia, and we remain dedicated to continuous innovation, introducing advanced features that consistently deliver real value and enhanced productivity to our customers. Visit Epsons website or contact the nearest Epson Authorized Dealer store around you for more information. State-run Rizal Medical Center (RMC) in Pasig City has partnered with the countrys leading finance app and cashless ecosystem, GCash, to roll out digital payments for hospital bills, aiming to enhance service efficiency and improve the patient experience, making it a first-of-its-kind for any hospital in the Philippines. (L-R) Rizal Medical Center chief administrative officer for finance Marivilla L. Osorio, CPA-MMHA; medical center chief II Doctor Maria Rica M. Lumague, MD, FPCS, MHA; with GCash vice president and head of public sector Cleo Celeste Santos, and greater manila area public sector regional head Rafael Antonio Tecson Through the integration of the Scan-to-Pay feature of GCash, RMC patients and their families may now settle fees via mobile phones, reducing reliance on physical cash, cutting waiting time at cashier counters, and promoting safer, contactless transactions. Additionally, eligible users can access GCredit, the built-in credit line of GCash, which provides a flexible payment option during medical emergencies, eliminating the need for traditional promissory notes. Credit eligibility is based on a users GScore, a proprietary trust rating generated through app activity. This is part of our broader effort to enhance public health service delivery through technology, said RMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Maria Rica Lumague. We recognize that waiting in line just to pay can be burdensome, especially for patients in distress or discomfort. Digital payments allow us to eliminate that bottleneck. RMC, one of the Department of Healths leading tertiary hospitals in Metro Manila, said the partnership aligns with national objectives to digitalize government services and improve healthcare accessibility. GCash remains committed to financial inclusion across sectors, including healthcare, said GCash VP and Head for Public Sector Cleo Celeste Santos. We see this collaboration with Rizal Medical Center as a crucial step in bringing reliable services to those who need them most, especially during medical emergencies. The hospital anticipates improvements in operational efficiency, faster transaction processing, and greater user satisfaction through digital adoption. The initiative also supports the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas goal of increasing the share of digital payments to 50% by 2026. GCash, with millions of registered users, has steadily expanded its presence across key public sector institutions, in line with its vision of building a more financially inclusive Philippines. For more information, visit www.gcash.com. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The national security trial of British media tycoon Jimmy Lai has been delayed after the Hong Kong observatory issued its highest rainstorm warning. Closing arguments were set to begin on Thursday but the hearing was adjourned until after the torrential rain subsided. Mr Lai,77, founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily, is facing the prospect of life in prison if found guilty of sedition and collusion with foreign powers under Hong Kongs national security law. He has pleaded not guilty. The Hong Kong Judiciary announced the adjournment of all court and tribunal hearings for Thursday after the city issued its highest-level "black" weather warning at around 7.50am local time. The alert was sounded after tropical storm Podul drenched southern China, dumping over 70mm of rain in an hour on the provinces of Guangdong, Hunan and Jiangxi. Mr Lai has been in prison for nearly four years for his role in the pro-democracy protests of 2019, which led to Beijing imposing the national security law in the city. This week, Reporters Without Borders said in a statement that Mr Lai's health had deteriorated after being in solitary confinement since 2021. The watchdog said he had been restricted to just 50 minutes of exercise a day and barely allowed natural light. The media tycoon's son, Sebastien Lai, claimed last year that his father, who suffers from diabetes, had lost significant weight and that he had been denied independent medical care. "I don't want my father to die in jail," he said in March, urging the British government to do more to secure Mr Lai's release. The trial began in December 2023 and was originally scheduled to last 80 days. Mr Lai provided testimony for about 50 days, answering questions about his political ideology, overseas contacts, alleged bid to collude with foreign powers, and calls for sanctions on the Chinese government. He repeatedly denied calling for sanctions against China and Hong Kong and maintained that he had never advocated separatism. His trial prompted Western governments to accuse Beijing of weaponising the legal system to silence dissent. President Donald Trump claimed last year he would 100 per cent get Mr Lai out of jail while British prime minister Sir Keir Starmer issued multiple calls for his immediate release. Mr Lais son sought a meeting with Sir Keir earlier this year to discuss his fathers case. It is ridiculous that in his display of bravery, the prime minister will not meet with me, he previously told The Independent. Antoine Bernard of Reporters without Borders said this week that Mr Lai had been subjected to inhumane conditions, stripped of every shred of dignity and freedom since his arrest. "His treatment exposes the authorities ruthless determination to silence and suppress one of the most prominent advocates for press freedom amid Hong Kongs rapidly deteriorating media landscape." The three presiding judges have reportedly indicated that a verdict could be reached by October. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Chinese military said it expelled a US destroyer from disputed waters in the South China Sea, a rare tense encounter between the worlds two most powerful militaries. The American navy had deployed the destroyer USS Higgins and a smaller warship, USS Cincinnati, near the Scarborough Shoal after two Chinese ships collided while chasing away a Philippine vessel from the disputed fishing atoll. It was the first known US military operation in at least six years near the atoll off northwestern Philippines. The Southern Theatre Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army organised forces to lawfully track, monitor, issue warnings, and expel the US warship, which entered the territorial waters near Huangyan Dao without authorisation from the Chinese government, a military spokesperson said. The US move seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security, severely undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea. The US navy's Seventh Fleet responded that "China's statement about this mission is false. It claimed that the US destroyer "asserted navigational rights and freedoms" near the atoll, consistent with international law". open image in gallery Photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a damaged Chinese ship beside a naval vessel after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine boat near Scarborough Shoal ( Philippine Coast Guard via AP ) The US navy has for years conducted voyages and overflights in the South China Sea to challenge Chinas requirement for entry notifications across almost the entire expanse of the waters disputed with its rival neighbours, mainly the Philippines. Such military operations have angered Beijing and its forces have had close encounters with US warships and aircraft in international waters and airspace. China asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea and some of its claims overlap with the demarcations of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Scarborough Shoal, called Bajo de Masinloc in the Philippines and Huangyan Dao in China, has emerged as a regular flashpoint between the two countries. open image in gallery Photo provided by the Philippine Coast Guard shows a damaged Chinese ship beside a naval vessel after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine boat near Scarborough Shoal ( Philippine Coast Guard ) The US sailed its warships after the Philippines released a video showing a Chinese ship chasing and firing water cannons at one of its vessels before ramming into a much larger Chinese ship after making a sudden turn. China acknowledged the confrontation and accused the Philippines of forcibly intruding into its waters, but made no mention of the collision. Commodore Jay Tarriela, a Philippine coast guard spokesman, said the Chinese coast guard "performed a risky manoeuvre" which led to "substantial damage" on the Chinese warship's forward deck, rendering it unseaworthy. The US, Japan, Australia and New Zealand on Wednesday expressed alarm over the incident involving US and Chinese vessels. It was the first such incident since 2022 when a Chinese warship confronted the American destroyer USS Benfold near the Paracel Islands. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Police in India have arrested two gym trainers on suspicion of killing a man during a violent altercation inside their nutrition supplement shop. Investigators said Gopinath Varpe, 35, entered the Protein Puzzle Shop in Charholi near Pune city in Maharashtra state on Wednesday afternoon and started verbally abusing Pranjal Taware, 22, before causing a disturbance. The argument escalated into a fight during which Ms Taware and shop co-owner Yash Patole, 25, allegedly struck Varpe multiple times on the head and body with metal rods. Varpe was taken to hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead. Assistant police commissioner Vishal Hire told the Times of India that Varpe knew the woman and that he had gone to the shop and abused her the previous day as well. An unnamed police officer told the newspaper that Varpe had started harassing Taware after she stopped talking to him about eight months ago. This incident happened near Charholi Phata. The deceased started chaos and abused the accused duo by coming to their shop in the afternoon, deputy commissioner of police Bapu Bangar said. They murdered Varpe with an iron rod, hitting him on the head and body. The suspects fled after the incident but later surrendered to police, Mr Bangar said. Dighi police are registering a case of murder and common intention. We are investigating the matter further, he was quoted as saying by the Free Press Journal. The duo were charged with murder under Indias newly introduced criminal code Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice At least 56 people are feared dead in a flash flood triggered by sudden heavy rain that devastated a remote village in the restive Himalayan region of India-administered Kashmir. Rescuers are racing against time to find at least 80 people who are still missing a day after the disaster struck Chasoti village, a pitstop on a popular Hindu pilgrimage route in Kishtwar district. Officials reportedly said they brought about 300 people to safety following the flash flood. Chashoti is where pilgrims leave their vehicles and set out on foot to the Machail Mata temple, located at an elevation of 2,800m. The news is grim and accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving, Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said. Federal deputy minister for science and technology, Jitendra Singh, said the flood was triggered by a cloudburst and "could result in substantial casualties". He said rescue teams were finding it hard to reach the village due to bad weather. The flood washed away a road and the weather wasnt helicopter-worthy, he said. A building is left damaged by a flash flood in Chositi village of Kashmir on 14 August 2025 ( AP ) Susheel Kumar Sharma, a government official, said villagers and local public workers recovered the bodies, while at least 50 seriously injured people were rushed to local hospitals for treatment. He said people went missing as the flood swept away dozens of cars and motorbikes. TV footage showed pilgrims crying in fear as floodwaters inundated the village. Villagers said the flood also washed away makeshift shops and community kitchens set up for the pilgrims. Officials said that the pilgrimage had been suspended and more rescue teams have been pressed to strengthen rescue and relief operations. The pilgrimage began on 25 July and was scheduled to end on 5 September. Abdul Majeed Bichoo, a resident and a social activist from a neighbouring village, said that he witnessed the bodies of eight people being pulled out from under the mud. Three horses, which were also completely buried alongside them under debris, were "miraculously recovered alive," he told the Associated Press. He added that Chasoti village had become a "sight of complete devastation from all sides" following the disaster. "It was heartbreaking and an unbearable sight. I have not seen this kind of destruction of life and property in my life," he said. On Friday, earth-movers were brought to the site of the disaster to move giant boulders, uprooted trees, and electricity poles, in an effort to expedite the rescue operation. Lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha, the top administrator of Kashmir appointed by New Delhi, offered condolences for the loss of life in the disaster and said he had directed personnel from India's military, paramilitary, police and disaster management agencies to strengthen rescue and relief operations. Narendra Modi said "the situation is being monitored closely". "Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," the prime minister said on X. A cloudburst, according to the Indian Meteorological Department, is an intense downpour of over 100mm of rain in just an hour that can trigger floods and landslides, especially in mountainous areas. Cloudbursts are increasingly common in India's Himalayan regions, which are prone to flash floods and landslides. Kishtwar is home to multiple hydroelectric power projects, which experts have long warned pose a threat to the region's fragile ecosystem. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The US said India could be slapped with a higher tariff rate if Donald Trumps summit with Vladimir Putin failed to end the war in Ukraine. Washington hit New Delhi with a 25 per cent import tariff on 31 July and then a 25 per cent penalty on 6 August primarily for its continued purchase of Russian crude oil, bringing the effective rate to a steep 50 per cent. US treasury secretary Scott Bessent said Washington could hike the secondary tariff imposed on India after Mr Trump warned of "very severe consequences" if a ceasefire deal was not reached in Alaska on Friday. "We've put secondary tariffs on Indians for buying Russian oil. And I could see, if things don't go well, then sanctions or secondary tariffs could go up," Mr Bessent told Bloomberg TV on Wednesday. "President Trump is meeting with President Putin, and the Europeans are in the wings carping about how he should do it, what he should do. The Europeans need to join us in these sanctions. The Europeans need to be willing to put on these secondary sanctions. open image in gallery Indian exporters face steep US tariffs ( AFP viaGetty ) Mr Trump is travelling to Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday for a high-stakes meeting with the Russian leader. He says the talks are aimed at "setting the table" for a follow-up summit involving Ukraine as well. On Wednesday, Mr Trump threatened "severe consequences" if Mr Putin didnt agree to a truce in Ukraine but did not specify what the consequences could be or for whom. There will be, I dont have to say, there will be very severe consequences, Mr Trump said at the Kennedy Centre in Washington after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky suggested, in a virtual meeting with the US president, that Mr Putin was bluffing about seeking peace. Mr Trump has been attacking India in recent days for its refusal to stop buying oil from Russia. He has accused India of financing Russias war in Ukraine by purchasing discounted crude from Moscow. India has responded that it needs cheap oil to meet the energy needs of its fast-growing economy. India has been sourcing nearly a third of its oil needs from Russia since the Ukraine war began in early 2022. It is now the second-largest importer of Russian crude after China. open image in gallery British prime minister Keir Starmer speaks with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy at 10 Downing Street in London ( Getty ) In an unusually sharp response, India accused the US of hypocrisy in punishing it for buying Russian oil while continuing to buy Russian uranium hexafluoride, palladium and fertiliser itself. Narendra Modis government called the US tariffs "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable" and vowed to "take all actions necessary to protect its national interests. On Thursday, Indias foreign ministry said it hoped relations with the US would move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests. For India, the steep US levies threaten to disrupt access to its largest export market where its shipments totalled nearly $87bn (65bn) in 2024, hitting sectors like textiles, footwear, gems and jewellery. The increased levies place Indian exporters at a 30-35 per cent disadvantage versus rivals in Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Japan, according to Reuters. It is also expected to shake up Indias employment sector, with millions of jobs on the line in textiles, gems, leather and chemicals companies. Talks for a trade deal have been ongoing for several months. It is believed that Indias reluctance to reduce duties on agriculture and dairy is a major sticking point in reaching an agreement. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Chinese climber has died after being struck by falling rocks while descending K2 in northern Pakistan, a day after she summited the peak. Authorities are working to recover the body of Guan Jing, who was in her early 40s. K2, in the Karakoram range, is considered one of the worlds most perilous climbs due to its steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and rockfall hazards. A Pakistani official told the Associated Press that a team had set off on foot to recover Jings body on Thursday. Earlier, officials said they were ready to begin the operation but were waiting for better weather conditions. Officials said all fellow climbers who summited K2 the same day were making their way safely back to base camp. Jing died on Tuesday night between Camp I and Advanced Base Camp on the Abruzzi Spur a common climbing route on K2 after being struck by falling rocks. Just a day earlier, she had stood on K2s summit alongside fellow climbers. Over 30 mountaineers reached the K2 peak on Monday. K2 rises 8,611 metres (or 28,251 feet) above sea level, making it the worlds second-highest peak after Mount Everest, straddling the border between Pakistans Gilgit-Baltistan region and Chinas Xinjiang. Jings death comes just two weeks after German mountaineer and Olympic gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier died attempting another mountain, Laila Peak, in the region. Jing, in her early 40s, was an experienced high-altitude mountaineer who had previously climbed several peaks above 8,000 metres. The Pakistan Alpine Club confirmed her death on Wednesday and said that she had reached the K2 summit on Monday along with others. The incident occurred on the Abruzzi Spur route between Camp I and Advanced Base Camp, a section notorious for frequent rockfalls, the Alpine Club said. In her final Instagram update last week from Camp 2, Jing shared that she had, for the first time, navigated the Houses Chimney a steep, vertical section at 6,600 metres, just above the camp. She wrote on Instagram: Arrived K2 camp 2, first time clim (sic) Houses Chimney, my backpack block this area, almost consume at all energy! take long rest continue climbing under the way how to save energy, thanks God (houses chimney ) not to long , no matter how hard is, finally we will get to destination! Last month, a Pakistani climber died in an avalanche near Camp 1 on K2, while Czech mountaineer Klara Kolouchova, believed to be the first woman from her country to summit both Everest and K2, was killed after a fall on Nanga Parbat. Pakistan, home to five of the worlds 14 peaks towering above 8,000 metres, sees a surge of climbers each summer between early June and late August. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Three people, including a seven-year-old girl, were killed in celebratory aerial firing during Independence Day celebrations in Pakistan on Thursday, police said. The girl was struck by a stray bullet in Azizabad, a neighbourhood in central Karachis Gulberg town, while a 35-year-old was killed in Korangi in the citys eastern part, the daily Dawn quoted police as saying. A 70-year-old man was struck and killed by a stray bullet outside his home in Kalri, local police officer Syed Asad Raza said. A seven-year-old girl was watching Independence Day fireworks from the second-floor gallery of her house in Azizabad Block 8 when a bullet struck her in the head, local police officer Waqar Kaiser was quoted as saying by the news outlet. A while later, her mother saw her bleeding out and her uncle took her to a nearby private hospital where doctors pronounced her dead. The body was shifted to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital where the bullet from her head was retrieved. Rescue workers told Geo TV that celebratory gunfire across Karachi also left over 100 people injured. Authorities condemned these incidents and reportedly launched an investigation. They urged the public to celebrate Independence Day through safer, non-violent means. Police reported cases of aerial firing in multiple Karachi neighbourhoods, including Liaquatabad, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Keamari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar. Similar incidents were also recorded in Sharifabad, North Nazimabad, Surjani Town, Zaman Town, and Landhi, police said, according to Geo TV. The wounded were admitted to local hospitals as well as private clinics. Police said they detained nearly 33 suspects during raids in Mominabad, Liaquatabad, Paposh Nagar, Samanabad, Orangi Town, and Keamari, and seized modern firearms and ammunition from them. They also registered cases against those involved. Independence Day celebrations in Karachi are marred by fatalities and injuries from aerial firing almost every year. In 2024, at least 95 people were wounded in such incidents compared with 80 the previous year. India and Pakistan won independence from British rule at midnight on 14 and 15 August 1947 respectively. British viceroy Lord Mountbatten, reportedly for logistical reasons, conducted the handover of power in Karachi on 14 August and then flew to India for another ceremony the next day. Some reports suggest that because 14 August 1947 coincided with the 27th of Ramadan considered a holy day in Islam Pakistan decided to celebrate Independence Day on the 14th. Pakistan, like India, formally celebrates Independence Day each year with a programme of military parades and cultural shows. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Pakistan is creating a dedicated missile force in the aftermath of a brief military conflict with India earlier this year. Shehbaz Sharif announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force on the eve of the Independence Day on Wednesday. "It will be equipped with modern technology," the prime minister said of the new force, which he added would prove to be a milestone in strengthening the combat capabilities of the army. India and Pakistan stepped back from the brink of war in May after a four-day military conflict left dozens of people dead in artillery shelling as well as drone and missile attacks. A Pakistani security official said the force, dedicated to deploying missiles in the event of a conventional war, was proposed to have its own command in the military. Mr Sharif claimed the conflict with India concluded with a decisive victory for Pakistan as he praised the military leaders for their swift response, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan. India forgot that wars are not won with weapons alone but with the spirit of the nation, he said. People celebrate Pakistan's Independence Day in Lahore ( REUTERS ) The Pakistani military claimed to have shot down six Indian fighter jets, including the French-made Rafale, during the initial clashes. India also claimed to have downed the rival countrys jets in a dogfight that reportedly involved over 125 aircraft, making it the largest aerial battle since the Second World War. US president Donald Trump, who has repeatedly claimed credit for brokering the ceasefire that ended the conflict after four days, said last month up to five fighter jets had been shot down, without clarifying which countrys. India confirmed on 31 May that it had lost jets during the conflict, but refused to clarify their number or nature. While Islamabad acknowledges the US role in the ceasefire, India claims it was agreed between the two militaries. The conflict began when India launched airstrikes on Pakistan, claiming it was punishing the neighbouring country for orchestrating an attack in the restive Himalayan region of Kashmir that left 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists, dead in April. Pakistan denied involvement. In his address on Wednesday, the Pakistani prime minister said his countrys nuclear arsenal was "not for aggression" but only for defence purposes". This appeared to be a pivot from the aggressive statement made by Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, about the countrys nuclear capabilities. The military leader reportedly told members of the Pakistani diaspora in Florida that Pakistan was "a nuclear nation and if we think we are going down, well take half the world down with us". He also warned that if India built a dam on the Indus River, Pakistan would destroy it with ten missiles". "We have no shortage of missiles," he added, according to The Print. India on Monday criticised the remarks as nuclear sabre-rattling, noting it was regrettable that they were made in the US, a key partner for New Delhi. India has already made it clear that it will not give in to nuclear blackmail. We will continue to take all steps necessary to safeguard our national security, New Delhi said in a statement. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trumps sweeping foreign aid cuts have emboldened Myanmars military rulers to commit even more human rights abuses, organisations working in the country have said. The cuts are projected to deprive the conflict-ravaged nation of more than $1bn in aid by 2029, according to the Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust (Hart) and Fortify Rights. This threatens to deepen a humanitarian crisis caused by a series of ethnic armed conflicts and worsened by the armys overthrow of Aung San Suu Kyis civilian government in a 2021 coup. Since ousting the democratically elected government, the junta led by General Min Aung Hlaing has waged civil war against a host of regional rebel groups across the country. The Independent released a documentary last December about the rise and fall of Nobel laureate Suu Kyi, who has remained under house arrest since the coup. open image in gallery Destroyed buildings in Kyauktaw, western Rakhine State, following junta airstrikes in May ( AFP via Getty Images ) In a report published on Wednesday, Hart and Fortify Rights underscored the disastrous impact of the Trump administrations order to freeze funding for USAID programmes on the first day of his second term in the White House. The Trump administration slashed USAID funding, halting some $60bn in foreign aid resulting in about 80 per cent of its projects being axed. This triggered the termination of over 5,800 grants, severely disrupting humanitarian and development efforts around the world. "Some of our worst fears are now being realised," Sam Mason, CEO of Hart, said. We warned that such a rushed and ill-conceived policy would weaken local mechanisms for oversight and justice, leaving civilians even more exposed to threats and persecution. Now, in some of the countrys most volatile regions, Mr Mason added, the military has carte blanche to violate human rights. The report, focusing on Shan State, a key battleground in the civil war bordering Thailand, claimed that armed groups were recruiting children as young as 10 to carry weapons or supplies. It highlighted that prolific sexual violence by armed groups was used as a weapon of war against Shan minorities and it had become even harder for survivors to seek support or medical treatment due to aid cuts. Benedict Rogers, senior director at Fortify Rights, said he recently returned from a month-long visit to the region where he witnessed the dire consequences first-hand. Refugees rations have been stopped, leaving them in a precarious struggle for survival. Food, schooling for children, and basic medical care have almost ceased, he said. Unless the international community steps up and works with Thai authorities to find sustainable solutions, these cuts could result in destitution, disease, and death. At a time when Myanmars military is committing egregious crimes, now is not the moment to cut lifelines of support. open image in gallery Fighters of the Mandalay People's Defense Forces head to the frontline ( AFP via Getty ) Mr Rogers said the ripple effects of the funding cuts were far-reaching, putting thousands of lives in grave danger and severely impeding the ability for pro-democracy and human rights groups to make their voices heard. The funding squeeze was also a gift to the junta and its international allies as it undermined efforts to seek accountability for mass atrocities. The cuts undermine years of international efforts to support a democratic future for Myanmar and strike a devastating blow to the countrys courageous but embattled democracy movement, he said. David Alton, a crossbench peer and former Lib Dem MP who is now chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, condemned the funding cuts. The more we remove deterrents to violence, the more we embolden the perpetrators, he said. We give them a green light to carry on their killings with impunity. It strengthens tyranny and intensifies suffering, Lord Alton said. The military coup in February 2021 plunged Myanmar into a civil war and deep humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 3.5 million people displaced internally. open image in gallery Medics treat injured students after an airstrike by the Myanmar army struck a school at Ohe Htein Twin village in Tabayin township on 12 May 2025 ( AP ) The fierce fighting between the juntas forces and armed ethnic groups in many areas of the country has led to civilians facing frequent attacks, arbitrary arrests and sexual violence. The closure of USAID has also disrupted critical humanitarian services along the border with Thailand where over 100,000 refugees rely on programmes funded by the US for food and medical care. An investigation led by the UN and reported on Wednesday said the Myanmar junta detained children as young as two, subjected them to torture, sexual abuse and beatings, and often used them as proxies for their parents. The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar, covering the period from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025, found evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity taking place with increasing frequency since the coup. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A teenage boy has been arrested on suspicion of murder and rape after a 13-year-old girl was found unconscious in Huddersfield and later died. West Yorkshire Police were called to a flat on Sheepridge Road at 11.36pm on Monday after the teenage girl was found unresponsive. She was rushed to hospital but died in the early hours of Tuesday morning, and the teenage boy remains in custody, police said. The girls death was unexplained pending further investigation, according to a postmortem examination carried out on Wednesday. The boy was also arrested on suspicion of another offence of rape relating to a 16-year-old girl from a separate incident elsewhere in Kirklees, West Yorkshire. DCI Stacey Atkinson of the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said We are continuing to conduct a number of enquiries today following the death of a 13-year-old girl following an incident at a flat on Sheepridge Road. A post mortem was not able to determine how she died, and we continue to treat her death as unexplained at this time, pending more enquiries. Those enquiries are complex and are likely to be lengthy as we work to fully understand the circumstances of the girls death. Specially trained officers are supporting her family at this time. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hundreds of thousands of students will get their A-level results today, finding out their final grades after two years of hard work. For those students who have applied for university, these results will determine whether they will secure their preferred university choice, the insurance choice or if they have unfortunately missed out on them. If this is the case, there are many options still available. The most important to know is clearing: the process by which students can still get themselves onto a great university course at short notice. There are over 30,000 courses available through clearing, giving around 74,000 students a space to study last year alone. These courses span across the UK, include many subjects and are available at both Russell Group and non-Russell Group universities. Clearing is available to students who do not meet the conditions of their offer on A-level results day, as well as those who did not receive any offers. Students who have changed their minds about what or where they wish to study can also use clearing. Heres everything you need to know about clearing ahead of results day: When do A-level results come out? A-level results day for this year will be on Thursday 14 August. When can I pick up my results? Results can be picked up from schools and further education colleges any time after 8am on results day. However, you'll need to find out the exact times from your school as these may vary. open image in gallery Students across the country will be picking up their results on Thursday ( PA ) What do I do if I get the grades I did not want? If the grades you received are not what you had in mind, there are plenty of options available for you. The first thing students are advised to do is to speak to a teacher or adviser who will be able to assist with exploring options and next steps. Here are a few other options according to Ucas: Speak to the university or college as they may be flexible especially if you narrowly missed your offer. Appeal your grade. Ucas has said you should discuss this with your school or college but it should not stop you from researching opportunities in clearing. Apply through clearing. Explore apprenticeships. You can find out more on the Ucas apprenticeship hub. Consider other options such as a gap year or going straight into the working world. How does clearing work? Clearing matches applicants to university spots that have not been filled yet and is available to anyone who has applied via the Ucas Undergraduate application and does not yet have any offers. Clearing runs from 8 July to 18 October and you are eligible if: If you are applying after 30 June If you did not receive any offers or none you wanted to accept If you did not meet the conditions of your offer If youve paid the multiple choice application fee of 26.50 If you have declined your firm place using the decline my place option on the application Courses in Clearing arent just the ones nobody wants there are many reasons why courses are still available. Its an opportunity for those who have missed their conditions, or had a last-minute change of heart about the university or course they want to study, Ucas says. How do I use clearing? The best place to start would be to check if there are any vacancies available via the Ucas website. In the search tab, you can enter the course of your choice, study level and entry year. After you have found the course you want to apply to, you should give the university of your choice a call to see if you meet its entry requirement and if there are still spots available. If the university gives you an offer and you wish to accept it, you can add the clearing choice to your application. This can be done by clicking Add Clearing Choice and filling in the course details by the date the university gave you on the phone. Applicants can only add one choice at a time, but the Ucas website has said If the university/college doesnt confirm your place, youll be able to add another. Students that only applied for one choice in their original application will need to pay an additional 4.50 to go through Clearing. How should I contact universities? Guidance from the University of Sussex (UoS) shines some light on the best way students can approach universities when looking for a clearing space: Prepare what you can in advance: Students should have a shortlist and alternatives when browsing university clearing sites. If you have a shortlist of alternative universities to contact, it may help you save time on the day, UoS says. Check entry requirements: For all universities, you should check if you meet the entry requirements. This can be found on each institutions website. Make sure you have important information at hand: You will need your Ucas ID number as it will be the first thing you might be asked for when contacting universities. UoS says you should also say the course or subject area you are interested in (if you have the course code, thats even better) and the grades you have achieved. If youre an international student, you may also need your English language qualification. You will also need to provide your name, date of birth and potentially your email address and phone number. Take notes: It is important to write down any important information given to you. If given an offer, applicants will receive an email that will explain when the offer should be accepted. Be positive: Its important to keep a positive mindset during this process. Try to stay calm so that you can listen carefully to what you are being told. If you are feeling upset about your grades, it may be better to wait until you are ready to talk, UoS says. Two summers ago, Joe Thorp woke up on a hot Thursday in August to take part in a rite of passage familiar to most British teenagers: A-level results day. While many of his classmates lay awake worrying about university offers, Joe already knew he wasnt going. He had a plan and it didnt involve lecture halls. He calmly opened his results to find hed got an A in accounting, an A in Level 3 core maths, and two D*s (distinction stars, the highest grade possible) in his Btec business diploma and went home to celebrate. In the weeks that followed, as friends loaded duvets and saucepans into cars bound for campuses across the country, Joe stayed in his childhood bedroom making cold calls, building his own vision for a new business specialising in social-media marketing for tradeworkers, such as local building and electrical firms. Joes decision wasnt based on his grades not meeting the requirements of his chosen university nor was it made on a whim. Quite the opposite: he had spent the months prior to results day researching his higher education options, much like everyone else in his sixth form; filling in Ucas application forms and imagining life away from his family home in Somerset. There were quite a few things about uni that a lot of people go for like going out all the time, for example, or living on their own away from home that just didnt seem like big enough pros for me, he explains. Whats more, the highly changeable jobs market, rapidly contorting around the increasing impact of AI, felt unreliable against the cost of university. You cant rely on a job existing in three years just because it exists now, says Joe. Instead, I liked the idea of building something Im learning lots of skills and different job roles in one go now, not just aiming for one specific job that can be taken by AI. By the time most of his friends were sitting their first lot of exams, Joe was signing his first clients for his company, Upper Hand Marketing. Two years later, its a profitable business, and Joe has no regrets. As tens of thousands of teenagers across the UK nervously collect envelopes, Joe is an example of why the luckiest among them may be the ones who dont end up going to university. For decades, the script has been clear and simple: A-levels, university, a ticket to a job with higher earnings. For employers, a degree signified a necessary level of self-discipline and ambition; for parents, it offered a reliable structure for the potential wilderness years after the routine of school had ended, as well as a safety net. But that longstanding bargain has broken down. Now, degrees can rarely guarantee the careers they once did: graduate role openings are at their lowest level for seven years according to recent reports, and junior or entry-level jobs are rare, the spectrum of these roles being reshaped beyond recognition by AI. And its a global issue: last week, business magazine Fortune declared that, while college used to open doors, now even grads with masters degrees are sending 60 applications per month with no luck. August 2025 may go down as the month when artificial intelligence started to show up in the jobs data, and experts predict the rate of change is only going to speed up as AI models double in power every few months. AI is dissolving the bottom rung of the corporate ladder, especially in economies and industries where information work dominates, Ignacio Palomera, CEO of Bondex, a leading Web3 professional networking and jobs platform, explains. open image in gallery For decades, the school-to-career pipeline was clear now AI has upended everything ( PA ) This is not a binary story of jobs lost vs jobs gained, but rather an asymmetrical transformation where tasks are being obliterated faster than the market can absorb or reskill the displaced. The first casualties are disproportionately early-career professionals and operational generalists. Last week, Microsoft published a study showing the 40 jobs that are most (and least) at risk from AI. Among those facing the greatest threat were data scientists, web developers, financial advisers, management analysts, and those with jobs in advertising and PR. Political scientists, historians, interpreters and mathematicians were also deemed to be at high risk. Large consultancies and some law firms are also reporting the automation of entry-level jobs. These are all roles that students go to university to get. Which is why many are starting to wonder whether the cost of going to university (the average graduate debt stands at 53,000) is worth it. As the increased cost of living means that maintenance loans will now only cover half of what an individual needs to survive their three years of study, the university experience has become a rare privilege. More students attending higher education are now living at home (30 per cent in 2024/25), which means institutions are spending less on things like freshers socials; halls are now often reportedly built and run by external commercial firms, and with no cap on university intakes, class sizes are large enough to make for a lonely environment. For parents watching on, imagining their teenagers enjoying exploits similar to their own decades ago, the last few years have been just as much of a rollercoaster. Joe tells me that his parents, who both went to university, had always urged him to work hard at school so he would have that same opportunity. But, as the jobs market was transformed by the progress of technology, like many parents, they softened or completely changed their view. This time last year, I was saying graduates earn more than non-graduates to try and make my son see the value of getting a degree, one parent tells me. A year later, a very different picture is emerging. Instead of an amazing opportunity, I think its turned into an expensive racket and the job market is changing so much, thanks to AI, that everything we think about getting a graduate job a good salary and future-proofing has been turned on its head. open image in gallery The university experience is now a rare privilege ( Getty ) Even in the last few years, tech jobs that promised shiny futures and more-than-healthy financial prospects have U-turned. My eldest son did computer science at university, so I thought hed be future-proofed but I was wrong. This year, instead of encouraging uni, Im saying to my youngest son: what jobs can AI not do? Start there and maybe do your learning in a different way. Get a trade, or fly the nest abroad, not down the road in Leeds. There have been a lot of false promises, Chloe Combi, author and Gen Z and Gen A expert, explains. For example, Ive been speaking a lot recently to young coders and people who went into computer science and IT an area that, it was promised, would offer six-figure salaries and be on the frontier of the best kinds of opportunity. But with the advent of AI in the last couple of years, those breaks have completely fallen away. Quite quickly, says Combi, across most industries, the career ladder is becoming a race to the bottom. And AI affects the entire process. I cant tell you how many young people Ive spoken to recently who have been interviewed as job candidates by AI. But there is a flip side to it all, she says. Theres been a real renaissance in skills that arent often offered in schools, like Arabic, Japanese and Chinese; employers are also constantly looking for problem-solvers, people with can-do attitudes who are really good communicators. In many ways, its going to make us look at, and value, what is human again. Some predict that this sentiment valuing human skills and, leading from there, manual work could lead to a renaissance: the birth of a new working class. In the face of AI-driven disruption, manual trades are gaining new respect: a Zety survey reported by the New York Post found that 53 per cent of Gen Z view blue-collar jobs as more resistant to automation, while 65 per cent dont believe that a university degree offers protection from AI-driven job loss. open image in gallery Students at The City of London Academy receive their A-level results in 2022 ( Getty ) The Microsoft study also documented which jobs are least at risk from AI, and that list included maids and housekeepers, roofers, housepainters, phlebotomists, and nursing assistants. Andrew Yang is an American entrepreneur, former presidential candidate and author of The War on Normal People: The Truth About Americas Disappearing Jobs and Why Universal Basic Income Is Our Future, wrote in his Substack: An ageing population and the difficulty of automating phlebotomy or home healthcare and an ongoing nursing shortage suggest that maybe if you head to this field, your job will be safe. I certainly would feel more confident in someone pursuing a nursing degree than, say, a law degree. The toolbelt generation, as its begun to be known, is well and truly getting started. And, as society follows suit in acknowledging and reassessing the value of physical labour, or caring skills in healthcare, not just as something to fall back on but as a meaningful career choice it may well engender the sort of much-needed respect that has, for a long time, been reserved for more middle-class professions. Thats not to say there arent still barriers: while it feels refreshing for a generation to have figured out that going to university is actually little more than paying through the nose for a shot at being middle-class and theyre refusing to play the big game that pretends the working world is run on a meritocracy rather than by the wealthy its not all plain sailing. As Combi points out, all of this is relatively new and without that scripted structure for the next few years of their lives, many young people are stuck without a decent alternative route to attaining financial security and success. Even if you asked most adults to name a programme or viable alternative to university for an 18-year-old to take, they couldnt, Combi observes. They might be able to say a vague thing about apprenticeships or the like, but they wouldnt have any more in-depth information than that. While job postings mentioning apprenticeships are up by 5.3 per cent, according to LinkedIn, there are currently only around 5,000 listed on the Ucas website. open image in gallery Going to university in 2025 involves accruing debts as high as 50,000, with little guarantee of a job afterwards ( Adobe ) Were in a really interesting time but there are still way too many uncertainties and not nearly enough focus or investment in competent, viable routes aside from the university track, adds Combi. Still, for Joe, the gamble is already paying off. Ive learnt more in the last two years running my own business than I think I would have in three years of lectures, he says. Hes also saved himself at least 50,000 in debt, and has started making money instead. Its not that I dont think anyone should go to university, hes quick to clarify, but for me, building something real made more sense. Even if it doesnt work out, going to a prospective employer having done this for myself feels more valuable. Today, Joes little brother, Barnaby, will take his turn waking up on results day and collecting that all-important envelope. But, just as for Joe, therell be no scrambling for Ucas logins or anxiously going through clearing. Instead, Barnaby will join his brother in his business. Ive already started full-time work with him I did as soon as I left sixth form, he tells me. The majority of his friends, like Joes, will go to university, though some have been drawn to practical trades. I just thought, its so expensive nowadays that was a factor. And I could see that I would get more out of the hands-on business stuff and learning lots of skills than just paying all that money for a degree. This year, as will inevitably be the case for many years to come, some A-level students will be told that university is the only proper, or right route to success. But, in a world thats rapidly changing, where nobody knows what is coming, its the class of 2025 who are leading the way and rewriting the rules entirely. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A-level top grades have risen again to reach a record high outside of the Covid years, while a record number of students have been accepted onto UK degree courses. Hundreds of thousands of pupils across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland discovered their exam results on Thursday morning, with many finding out if they would progress to university, an apprenticeship or work. More than a quarter (28.3 per cent) of UK entries were awarded an A or A* grade, up by 0.5 percentage points on last year when 27.8 per cent achieved the top grades. This was higher than in 2019, the last year that summer exams were taken before the pandemic, when 25.4 per cent of entries were awarded A or A* grades and marks the highest proportion of entries scoring top grades outside the pandemic-affected years of 2020-22, according to the figures from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Meanwhile, new Ucas figures show that, for 18-year-olds in the UK, 255,130 applicants have been accepted onto a university or college course up 4.7 per cent on last year. Overall, 82 per cent of UK 18-year-old applicants awaiting a decision on results day secured their first choice which was the same proportion as last year. The proportion of UK entries awarded the top A* grade this year has also risen, by 0.1 percentage points to 9.4 per cent, and it is higher than when it stood at 7.7 per cent in 2019. open image in gallery Students receive their A-level results at Solihill School on Thursday ( PA ) However, the gap between the proportion of A-level entries in London awarded the highest grades and those in northeast England now stands at 9.2 percentage points, up from 7.4 points last year and the largest since the present system of grading began in 2010, according to analysis. Boys have outperformed girls in terms of top grades for the first time in seven years. Overall, 28.4 per cent of boys A-level entries scored an A* or A this summer, compared to 28.2 per cent of their female classmates entries. The overall pass rate the proportion of entries graded A* to E has also risen to 97.5 per cent this year, which is up on last year (97.2 per cent) and the pre-pandemic year of 2019 (97.6 per cent). Sir Ian Bauckham, chief regulator of Ofqual, Englands exams regulator, said the standard of work required to achieve grades has held constant since 2023, attributing any changes to a smaller, smarter cohort of students who sat their A-level exams this year compared to previous years. open image in gallery Students receive their A-level results at Solihull School on Thursday ( PA ) In England, 11,909 students received their T-level results in the fourth year that the qualification has been awarded, and 91.4 per cent achieved at least a pass. The number of T-level entries has increased by 61.4 per cent on last year, while the number of A-level entries has fallen by 0.5 per cent compared to 2024. More than 250,000 Level 3 VTQ results have also been awarded to UK students by the JCQ this year. Students who are receiving their A-level, T-level and level 3 vocational and technical qualification (VTQ) results were in year 8 when schools closed because of the pandemic. open image in gallery Mazvita Hlubanyana (left) and Akif Ghany receive their A-level results at Latimer Arts College in Barton Seagrave, Northamptonshire, on Thursday ( PA ) Ucas chief Dr Jo Saxton highlighted how this years students were just 13 when the Covid pandemic hit, turning their secondary schooling upside down. She said: Its great to see these applicants securing a university place in record numbers, seeking more education and investing in their futures. Education secretary Bridget Phillipson described exam results day as a time for celebration for young people across the country as she told BBC Breakfast there has been a steadying of the ship after the disruption from the coronavirus pandemic. The Covid pandemic led to an increase in top grades in 2020 and 2021, with results based on teacher assessments instead of exams. This years cohort of school and college leavers received their GCSE results in 2023, the first year that grading was returned to pre-pandemic levels in England. In Wales and Northern Ireland, exam regulators returned to pre-pandemic grading in 2024, a year later than in England. open image in gallery Students receive their A-level results at Ark Academy in London on Thursday ( PA ) Education leaders have warned of stark divides in results between different regions because of the legacy of Covid and socio-economic factors. Calling for more attention to be paid to the issue, Jill Duffy, chair of the JCQ board of directors and chief executive of the OCR exam board, warned: Regional inequalities are getting worse, not better. On the increase in top A-level grades, Pepe DiIasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: This is testament to the hard work of teachers and students in often very challenging circumstances. However, we continue to see big differences in attainment between regions, reflecting socioeconomic factors which represent a massive challenge, not only for the education sector but our society as a whole. We have to stop merely talking about these issues and actually address them with investment in communities suffering from generational disadvantage. open image in gallery Students receive their A-level results at Ark Academy in London on Thursday ( PA ) Ms Phillipson has vowed to tackle the yawning inequalities in educational attainment. She also told ITVs Good Morning Britain the government would give a much greater priority to children and education in the event of another pandemic. Speaking to Sky News, she added: My message to young people is that if youve got what youve needed to move on to the next step in your journey, thats fantastic. But if you havent, theres lots of support and advice thats available, either from your school or college, but also through Ucas, if youre considering going to university through clearing, and also the National Career Service, because there are lots of fantastic routes that are out there, whether thats apprenticeships, university or much more besides. Scotland has a different qualification system, and students received their results on Tuesday last week. Figures released by the Scottish Qualifications Authority showed 78.4 per cent of those sitting National 5 exams passed with grades A to C up from 77.2 per cent last year. For highers, 75.9 per cent passed with the top bands, up from 74.9 per cent last year, and for advanced highers 76.7 per cent of students achieved A to C grades, up from 75.3 per cent last year. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Grieving families of obese and overweight people may be stumping up a fat tax when they die in the form of additional burial charges, funeral directors have warned. Some local authorities across the UK now demand extra charges to bury larger coffins, known in the industry as "bariatric burials", with additional costs ranging from under 100 to more than a 1,000 in some areas. A survey of its members by the National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF) found a quarter of funeral directors now say their local authority charges extra for larger coffins. "The majority of respondents (125 out of 165) indicated that their local cemetery and cremation authority does not charge extra for the burial of large or bariatric coffins. However, a significant minority (40 respondents) reported extra charges," the SAIF said. Speaking to The Independent, Ross Hickton, managing director of Hickton Family Funeral directors in the West Midlands, and who is also the national president of SAIF, said the extra charges were discriminatory. He said: "Obviously families have paid council tax, income tax their entire lives, and now to be slammed with another tax if their loved one is overweight or oversized isn't really fair. He added: "I would call it a fat tax because at the end of the day, people are having to pay extra fees due to their size." open image in gallery ( PA ) The survey was commissioned by SAIF when concerns were raised over Wolverhampton council after it suggested it would implement a 20% extra charge on bariatric burials due to a growing demand for larger graves in cemeteries and graveyards. However, the council has since backtracked on that proposal. Matthew Crawley, chief executive at the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management rejected the idea that additional charges were any kind of "tax" and said local authorities largely "take a measured and reasonable approach in charging for additional space required". "Suitable cemetery land is and has been in crisis for over 20 years, therefore burial space is at a premium, he said. Historically graves in a Victorian cemetery may have been 3'5" wide, and this has increased to 4'5"-5' steadily over several years, suggesting that cemeteries are adapting to requirements rather than applying a 'tax' of any kind." Wolverhampton council has also stoked controversy after its councillors reportedly decided to introduce a new dedicated section for larger graves at the city's Danescourt Cemetery in Tettenhall in May this year. Mr Hickton said: "They've indicated they may open a separate section for bariatric and large coffins in cemeteries. It's a separate section which is penalising and stigmatising. It is absolutely nuts." A City of Wolverhampton Council spokesperson told The Independent: No formal decision was ever taken on plans to charge more for larger burial plots. This is a common practice taken by councils around the country where higher charges cover the costs of providing a larger plot. However, while under consideration, we have decided not to proceed with the plans. The council did not comment on its plans to introduce a separate area for larger graves at Danescourt Cemetery. A former server at a popular downtown Charlottesville restaurant has pleaded guilty to robbing the Franco-Southern establishment, taking and writing more than $16,000 in checks to himself and his friends. Onetime Bizou server Elijawah Darius Scott, 22, appeared in court recently to plead guilty to one count of obtaining money by false pretenses. The check book was kept behind the bar and generally used to pay vendors and gratuities, according to the criminal complaint. He was not authorized to write checks. But write them he did. From early September to late December 2023 Scott wrote $16,230 in checks, most frequently to himself. He would deposit them into an account at Atlantic Union Bank in the name of Katherine Elizabeth Wells, a server at another Downtown Mall restaurant, a Korean establishment called Maru. Video from Atlantic Union Bank showed Wells alone endorsing and depositing some of the checks, and other times Scott endorsed and deposited the checks while accompanied by Wells, according to the complaint written by Charlottesville detective Nathan Stein. Stein asserted that Wells, now 23, would then move money through Cash App transfers that generally correspond with dates and amounts of some of the stolen checks. For her role in the scheme, Wells was initially hit with three felony charges. While two of them would get dropped, she pleaded guilty in late April to a felony count of obtaining money by false pretenses. Her plea, however, was taken under advisement until April 20, 2027, a period that gives her time to pay court-ordered restitution in the amount of $6,914. Another person who appears to have benefited, albeit temporarily, from Bizous checks is 22-year-old Ilijah Defforest Jones. Court records show that, like Wells, Jones pleaded guilty to a felony count of obtaining money by false pretenses. And like Wells, he has two years to pay back his one check, which was in the amount of $1,600. According to the court file, Scott stole and wrote the first of the 14 purloined Bizou checks in September 2023, just one month into his employment at the restaurant. A manager contacted authorities on Jan. 12, 2024, two days after Scotts employment was terminated. In the local courts, people who commit property crimes without violence rarely receive active jail sentences. One factor that can trigger jail time is a prior criminal record. And Scott does have one. In 2022, he was convicted of misdemeanor credit card fraud for allegedly taking the card of a Jefferson Park Avenue housemate and then shopping at such stores as Dicks, Spencer Gifts, Lids and Sneaker Thrift, the latter three in the since-shuttered Fashion Square mall. He received a sentence with no active jail time. Also, in 2022, he was arrested by University of Virginia police and accused, after they reviewed surveillance video, of temporarily taking a Hello Kitty wallet from the backpack of a fellow UVa cafeteria worker. Police said they were aided in the identification process by the suspects distinctive neck tattoos; he told them that he operates a tattoo business. While police alleged that Scott made a series of small purchases with his colleagues credit card at such eateries as Dominos Pizza, Food Lion, Moes Original BBQ and Asado Wing & Taco Company, the prosecution ceased in September 2022. Trouble for Scott started to brew again last August when a woman accidentally left her American Express card at the since-closed Batteau restaurant in Scottsville, near Scotts current residence. She told police she returned the next day. She advised that Scott handed her her card, wrote investigating officer Gregory Jenkins. Shortly thereafter at 4:26 p.m. and again at 4:30 p.m. a purchase for $398.59 was attempted online at Best Buy. Meanwhile, a fraud investigation revolving around Stay Charlottesville, a local homestay company, was brewing. Last month, Scott pleaded guilty to felony credit theft and agreed to pay $9,298 to Stay Charlottesville on behalf of two families, described in the agreement only as the Wilsons and the Kennedys, whose properties were fraudulently rented by Scott. The commonwealth agreed to drop eight misdemeanor credit card counts and refrain from bringing charges in the scheme against Stay Charlottesville, according to the terms of the July 28 plea agreement. When arrested for the Bizou scheme a year ago, Scott received an unsecured bail that freed him on the evening of his arrest. However, when he appeared in Charlottesville Circuit Court for his plea on the last day of July, he was wearing the distinct horizontal stripes of the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail jumpsuit. Thats because he failed to show up at his slated June 17 arraignment, so a judge ordered him jailed. In court in late July, Scotts attorney Carlos Moreno told Judge Claude Worrell that his client missed the arraignment because his father had died two days prior. Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Nicholas Kalagian pointed out that Scott also missed a hearing one month earlier. Scott was freed on bail within hours of his Bizou guilty plea. Operating since 1991, if one includes the owners earlier concept called Metropolitain, Bizou is known for an ever-changing menu of classic Virginian dishes prepared with French culinary techniques, including fried chicken-topped Caesar salad, a modernized meatloaf and a dessert consisting of ice cream-topped grilled banana bread. When The Daily Progress visited the restaurant a day after the guilty plea, the manager was said to be out of town. A subsequent in-person request to interview restaurant co-owner Vincent Derquenne did not bear fruit. At Scotts July 31 hearing, the judge reminded the defendant that the plea agreement he signed that day made no promises about what sentence might ultimately be chosen and that the statutory maximum is 20 years. The agreement did stipulate that Scott owes Bizous parent company $7,716. Worrell has ordered a presentence investigation and set that sentencing for Oct. 2. Sentencing on the credit theft from the Batteau, which went out of business in December, has been set for Oct. 24. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A major London hospital was forced to evacuate dozens of people with nine left unwell due to a chlorine gas leak. Firefighters rushed to Guys Hospital, Southwark, shortly before 9am on Thursday after chlorine was produced by the accidental mixing of chemicals in a boiler room. Around 150 people were evacuated from the basement and ground floor of the hospital. Even small amounts of chlorine can cause irritation, and high levels can cause severe lung damage, such as toxic pneumonitis or pulmonary edema, or even death in extreme cases. A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said nine people were attended to at the scene, with four of those treated in hospital. open image in gallery People were evacuated from the ground floor and basement of Guys Hospital in London ( X/@saagaloo24 ) Ronald Gilchrist, 50, told the Daily Express he was visiting his girlfriend in hospital when alarms started going off inside the building. "They didnt explain what was going on. Because I knew someone that worked at the hospital thats how I found out. It wasn't chaos, everyone was just told to leave outside, he said. Images show crowds of people outside the building, with an elderly woman with a walking stick seen being escorted by a firefighter. Hospital workers could be seen standing around talking next to an ambulance as firefighters headed inside to tackle the issue. Witness Philippa Garrott also told the publication: I saw several fire engines and ambulances parked outside the Shard exit of London Bridge Station this morning, at about 9.45am. All of Guy's Hospital staff appeared to have been evacuated out onto St Thomas Street, and there were various police/fire cordons in place. Someone appeared to be covered with wet towels and blankets. Guy's Hospital is a major elective centre with 400 beds, specialising in cancer, kidney, urology and dental care, as well as ear, nose and throat and orthopaedics. open image in gallery Images show crowds of people outside the building following a chemical leak ( X/@mindurown41 ) A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: The incident is believed to have been caused by the mixing of chemicals inside a plant room which produced a chlorine gas. One person was injured as a result of a chemical reaction. Several people, who came to the aid of the person, have been treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas. Firefighters have carried out a sweep of the area to check for no elevated readings of chlorine gas. The building has also been ventilated. Crews also supported with the precautionary evacuation of the basement and ground floors of the building. Two fire engines, two fire rescue units, a command unit and specialist hazardous materials officers attended the scene. A spokesperson for Guy's and St Thomas's said the incident happened in a non-patient area. "One staff member was injured and several people, who came to the aid of the person, were treated for the inhalation of chlorine gas, they added. "The site has now reopened and people should attend their appointments unless they are contacted by us directly." Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice JD Vances team have denied knowing about any efforts from police to collect social media information from residents near where he spent his Cotswolds holiday. Locals near the Hamlet of Dean, near Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, have claimed police had been door-to-door asking for personal details of residents and social media accounts. Thames Valley Police have denied officers were instructed to ask residents for social media details, and said they were under no obligation to answer any questions. One local told The Observer: 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. The claims have circulated widely on social media in recent days, and now the vice presidents team has denied being aware of any efforts to collect such information. open image in gallery A large police operation was put in place during Mr Vances holiday in the Cotswolds ( Reuters ) The Vice Presidents Office and Secret Service were unaware of any efforts by local police to collect residents' social media information, William Martin, Mr Vances communications director said. We greatly appreciate the effort our law enforcement partners put in to keeping the vice president safe, but any questions about security measures are best directed to the law enforcement agency responsible. Residents in the vicinity of the 6-acre site Mr Vance was staying on described roadblocks and police door knocks in recent days, as security in the area was on high alert. open image in gallery The vice presidents team has denied being aware of any efforts to collect social media information from residents ( Getty Images ) Thames Valley Police said it was supporting the US during the vice presidents visit to the area to ensure the safety of all involved. It said: No officers were instructed to ask residents about their social media accounts or use, and we have received no complaints regarding this. To reduce local impact due to temporary road restrictions during the visit, we held brief courtesy conversations with residents to understand their access needs and facilitate safe movement. It was made clear that participation was entirely voluntary and that responses would not be shared outside the police force. open image in gallery Mr Vance spent several days on holiday in Dean, Oxfordshire, this week ( Reuters ) Road closures, sniffer dogs, police and a number of blacked out cars have all been spotted in the area, a marked difference to the usual calm and quaint atmosphere of a Cotswold country retreat. One woman told The Times the village had seen one blinking pantomime after the other. Another told the paper she and a friend had been stopped by police blocking a footpath while walking through the area, and said: I told the police we are two old ladies, we are hardly terrorists. open image in gallery Protests were seen at a not welcome party staged in the Cotswolds earlier this week ( AFP/Getty ) The vice president has now left the Cotswolds to begin his second leg of his family holiday in Scotland, where he will reportedly spend five days. He landed at at Prestwick Airport on Wednesday evening before travelling with a large motorcade to the luxury Carnell Estate near Kilmarnock in East Ayrshire, where airspace restrictions will remain in place around the estate until Sunday. open image in gallery The vice president has now left the Cotswolds to begin his second leg of his family holiday in Scotland ( Reuters ) He was greeted by dozens of pro-Palestine protesters referencing the US governments support for Israel amid the starvation and bombardment of Gaza. Similar protests were seen at a not welcome party staged in the Cotswolds earlier this week, where dozens came quipped with banners, cake and plenty of pictures of an unflattering meme of the vice president. Many placards referenced Mr Vances own words, with a woman holding a sign saying Cotswolds childless cat ladies say go home, and many quoting his 2016 statement that he was a Never Trump guy. open image in gallery One picture was everywhere - an edited image of a Mr Vance , which has become a commonly used meme on social media ( Reuters ) Other more satirical signs read JD Vance claps when the plane lands and JD Vances Netflix password is password. One picture was everywhere - an edited image of Mr Vance as a bloated, smooth, bald man staring off into the distance, which has become a commonly-used meme on social media. Last month, US officials were forced to deny a claim from a 21-year-old Norwegian man who said he was denied entry at Newark Liberty International Airport after border security found the meme on his phone. Fact Check: FALSE, the Customs and Border Protection wrote on X. Mads Mikkelsen was not denied entry for any memes or political reasons, it was for his admitted drug use. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Northern Powerhouse Rail will reportedly be revived this winter, as part of Labours commitment to improving transport connections to the North and to boost UK infrastructure. Sir Keir Starmer is set to make the announcement before the Labour conference in a speech with chancellor Rachel Reeves. Transport secretary Heidi Alexander is also set to make the rail project a central topic of her conference speech, which is due to take place on 28 September. A government source told The Guardian that the announcement was likely to take place before then but that the timing was not yet confirmed. open image in gallery Northern political and industry leaders are also calling for Starmer to revive HS2 plans ( PA Archive ) It comes after a series of recent U-turns that have frustrated Labour voters and backbench MPs, as speculation continues that the Treasury will announce tax rises to plug a 40bn spending hole. Since being elected last July, political and industry leaders in the north of England have been pushing for Sir Keir to revive the Manchester section of HS2 and to commence building for Northern Powerhouse Rail. With plans set for the railway to connect Liverpool to Hull, it is seen as a crucial development for the UK as it would also provide connections to Leeds, Bradford and Sheffield. Current infrastructure in the North is frequently criticised, with train routes falling into disrepair coupled with poor bus and road connections. Former prime minister Rishi Sunak decided not to extend the HS2 railway between the West Midlands and Manchester in 2023, after the project exceeded its budget and became mired in delays. The previous Conservative governments Integrated Rail Plan sparked outrage among northern leaders in November 2021, when it said that a new line would only be built on one section, and the rest of the route would get enhancements to existing lines. open image in gallery The Northern Powerhouse Rail plan is seen as a critical development for UK infrastructure ( Northern ) In July, Ms Reeves said: In the coming weeks I will set out this governments plan to take forward our ambitions for Northern Powerhouse Rail. The chancellor has also announced 3.5bn more funding to support the TransPennine Route Upgrade, a project to improve the railway between York and Manchester. She said the government would provide 2.5bn of additional funding to enable the continued delivery of East West Rail, a new line between Oxford and Cambridge. In her spending review she also said railways in Wales would get 445m investment over 10 years. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thunderstorms are set to disrupt the heat in some parts of the UK after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning. Parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland are forecast to see severe thunderstorms through Thursday and heading into Friday. Large areas have been issued yellow weather warnings, with the conditions threatening to be severe until 10pm on Thursday. In Scotland, the warning continues from Wednesday, while it began in Ireland from midday on Thursday. open image in gallery A yellow weather warning for thunderstorms is in place for parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland on Thursday, both lasting until 10pm ( Met Office ) The Met Office said 20 to 40mm of rain could fall in less than an hour in Scotland, and as much as 50 to 70mm in two hours. In Ireland, 40mm is expected in less than an hour, and up to 50mm in total. Despite the rainy conditions, the warm weather is set to persist as the UK continues to experience its fourth heatwave of the year, even in areas where storms will hit. 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. The forecaster has told residents in the areas covered by the warning to be prepared for flash flooding if their area is at higher risk. It advises that people make travel plans in advance where necessary, and prepare for power cuts, strong winds, and thunder. open image in gallery Heavy thunderstorms are set to be met with high heat in Scotland and Northern Ireland ( Met Office ) Heading into the weekend, the heat spell is forecast to continue in the South, while more northern regions are set to see cloudier skies. The thunderstorms should subside by Friday, replaced by drizzly skies at worst. Temperatures could reach as high as 31C in the south of England, continuing the heatwave conditions the country has been experiencing. This drops to around 30C on Saturday, and 29C on Sunday. The exact regions covered by the yellow weather warning on Thursday are: Scotland Angus Dundee Fife Perth and Kinross Aberdeen Aberdeenshire Moray Highland Northern Ireland Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice King Charles will vow that the service and sacrifice of Second World War heroes who fought and died in the Pacific and Far East will never be forgotten. Speaking in an audio message ahead of the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Charles will reflect on the horrors experienced by prisoners of war and innocent civilians of occupied lands in the region whose suffering reminds us that wars true cost extends beyond battlefields, touching every aspect of life. VJ Day on August 15 marks the anniversary of Japans surrender to the Allies following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, effectively ending the Second World War. The six-minute speech, recorded earlier this month in the Morning Room at Clarence House, echoes and references the historic audio broadcast made by Charless grandfather King George VI. The monarch will describe how the heroes of VJ Day gave us more than freedom; they left us the example of how it can and must be protected, with victory made possible by close collaboration between nations across vast distances, faiths and cultural divides. Charles will say this demonstrated how in times of war and in times of peace, the greatest weapons of all are not the arms you bear but the arms you link. King Charles is set to honour the VJ day heroes ( PA ) The service and sacrifice of veterans and those who lost their lives fighting in the conflict shall never be forgotten, he will say. The message will be released at 7.30am on Friday ahead of a service of remembrance attended by the King and Queen, Second World War veterans and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. Charles was pictured looking serious with his hands clasped as he sat at his desk at his London residence Clarence House, with a microphone angled towards him, as he prepared to read his address. Fridays televised service, broadcast live by the BBC, will pay tribute to all those who served in the Asia-Pacific theatre, including Burma Star recipients, British Indian Army veterans, former prisoners of war, and those who fought in pivotal battles including Kohima and Imphal in India. The event, hosted by the Royal British Legion in partnership with the government, will see the King and his wife leave floral tributes, as will other senior figures. A national two-minute silence will conclude with an aerial display by the Red Arrows and the service will draw to a close with a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, before the King and Queen attend a reception with Second World War veterans. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A wallaby has been spotted running loose in countryside on the Norfolk and Suffolk border, triggering a police appeal. The first sighting of the animal, commonly associated with Australia, was on Monday in the village of Ilketshall St Andrew, with footage was showing it emerge from bushes before bounding across farmland. It was followed a day later by another report of the animal in Wisset, near Halesworth, about seven miles away from the earlier sighting. A spokesperson for Suffolk Constabulary told The Independent: "If spotted residents [are] asked to call [the] police or alternatively the RSPCA. With no local animal sanctuaries yet to come forward to claim the wallaby as missing, it remains unclear whether the wallaby is an escapee, or one of Britain's wild wallabies. And locals have spoken of their surprise at the sightings. "He's getting around isn't he?" a worker at local pub The Huntsman and Hounds in Halesworth told The Independent, confirming that customers were aware of the wallaby being spotted. They added: "He's a long way from home." Wallabies in the UK are not uncommon, with wild colonies twiof red-necked wallabies living in Scotland and also on the Isle of Man, where over 800 are known to live and breed. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Shadow home secretary Chris Philp said he had a large knife pulled on him and was pelted with bottles during a visit to a migrant camp in northern France. During a trip with Daily Express journalist Zak Garner-Purkis, the Conservative MP attempted to speak to asylum seekers living in tents near Dunkirk, as they waited to cross the English Channel in small boats. After attempting to speak to a group of Eritreans and a man carrying lifejackets, he is approached by Mr Garner-Purkis, who informs him that a man with a rather large knife has walked behind them. In the clip, Mr Philp says: "I found it pretty shocking - you said behind me somebody had pulled out some sort of machete and we left pretty quickly." Mr Garner-Purkis says the man was "swinging it around in the air", adding: "It was clear he was doing it to send a message to the other people there - whether it was a case of 'don't speak'." Shortly afterwards while walking along the road recounting the incident to the camera, objects can be seen being thrown at them. Mr Garner-Purkis says "they are throwing bottles at us" and Philp responds: "Right, we've got to go. In a post on social media, the Croydon South MP said: We were attacked today at the migrant camp dubbed The Jungle 2 just outside Dunkirk. We were threatened with a machete, pelted with bottles & our car hit as we sped off. Those responsible are likely to be in the UK soon in a taxpayer funded hotel. This border madness must end. In another video, he filmed a group of migrants boarding a bus while French police appear to be standing by showing complete inactivity. Migrants climbing onto a small boats near Gravelines in France to cross the Channel ( Getty ) He said: I just found French Police actively facilitating illegal immigration. The officers - likely UK funded - are ushering illegal immigrants onto a public bus to take them towards boat embarkation points. I took this shocking footage in Gravelines, northern France, an hour or so ago. More than 50,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the English Channel since Labour won the 2024 general election. Home Office figures show 474 migrants arrived by small boat on Monday alone, which brings recorded arrivals to 50,271 since the election on July 4 2024. Labour former home secretary Baroness Smith of Malvern had said earlier on Tuesday that reaching the milestone is unacceptable. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said Labours promise to smash the criminal boat gangs in its manifesto last year was just a slogan, with crossings now so much worse than they were before the vote. There have been 27,029 arrivals so far this year, which is 47 per cent higher than at the same point of 2024 when the figure stood at 18,342, and 67 per cent higher than at the same time in 2023 (16,170). Earlier this month, the government began detaining migrants under a new one in, one out deal with France. UK officials aim to make referrals for returns to France within three days of a migrants arrival by small boat, while French authorities will respond within 14 days. An approved asylum seeker in France will be brought to the UK under a safe route as part of the exchange. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thousands of people have had their homes seized after receiving controversial no-fault eviction notices despite Labour pledging to abolish them, new data shows. Labour said in its election manifesto it would abolish Section 21 eviction notices immediately after winning the election. A year on, and the relevant legislation still progressing through parliament means that the ban is still not in effect. According to Ministry of Justice figures released on Thursday, 11,400 households received no-fault evictions by bailiffs in the year to June. The number of bailiff evictions is an eight per cent rise on the previous year, continuing a trend of a heightened use of the notices. Housing charity Shelter said it is unconscionable that renters continue to be marched out of their homes by bailiffs a year after Labours election victory. open image in gallery Shelter described no-fault evictions as one of the leading causes of homelessness, with landlords able to evict tenants with little notice and no reason required ( Getty Images ) It warned that nearly 1,000 households could be evicted from their homes by bailiffs every month until the ban on the notices is finally put in place. Section 21 notices grant landlords the power to evict tenants from their properties at two months notice without needing to give any reason. Former prime minister Theresa May first announced the Conservatives intention to abolish Section 21 notices in April 2019. Shelter described no-fault evictions as one of the leading causes of homelessness. Mairi MacRae, its director of campaigns and policy, said: "It is unconscionable that more than a year after the government came to power, thousands of renters continue to be marched out of their homes by bailiffs because of an unfair policy that the government said would be scrapped immediately. For far too long, tenants lives have been thrown into turmoil by the rank injustice of no-fault evictions. At the whim of private landlords, thousands of tenants are being left with just two months to find a new home, plunging them into a ruthless rental market and leaving many exposed to the riptide of homelessness. open image in gallery Deputy prime minister and housing secretary Angela Rayner has spearheaded Labours Renters Rights Bill ( PA Wire ) The governments Renters Rights Bill, sponsored by the Ministry of Housing, is currently in its final stages. It is expected to pass before the end of the year, or early 2026 at the latest. Alongside abolishing Section 21 notices, it would give tenants a 12-month protected period at the beginning of their tenancy, alongside increasing the notice requirement for landlords to evict on other grounds from two to four months. The bill would also provide protection against backdoor eviction, where tenants are effectively pushed out by above-market rent increases, by giving them greater powers to challenge them. Housing charity Crisis has called on the government to bring forward the legislation and name a date when it will be implemented. Matt Downie, chief executive at Crisis, said: Despite good intentions from the Westminster government, thousands of people are still being unjustly evicted from their homes and threatened with or even forced into homelessness. open image in gallery The new data comes after Labour MP Rushanara Ali resigned her role as homelessness minister last week ( UK Parliament ) The new data comes after Labour MP Rushanara Ali recently resigned her role as homelessness minister following reports she gave tenants in a property she owned four months notice to leave, before relisting the property with a 700 rent increase just weeks later. Such a move would likely not be allowed under the Renters Rights Bill, which is set to introduce new protections for tenants, including banning landlords who evict tenants in order to sell their property from relisting it for rent for six months. A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: No one should live in fear of a Section 21 eviction and these new figures show exactly why we will abolish them through our Renters Rights Bill, which is a manifesto commitment and legislative priority for this government. Were determined to level the playing field by providing tenants with greater security, rights and protections in their homes and our landmark reforms will be implemented swiftly after the bill becomes law. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Watch as Sir Keir Starmer welcomed Volodymyr Zelensky to 10 Downing Street on Thursday, 14 August, a day before Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin were due to meet. The UK prime ministers meeting with the Ukrainian president came after he vowed that Britain will increase pressure on Russia if necessary. Meanwhile, the US president has threatened Russia with severe consequences if Russia rejects a ceasefire. Sir Keir joined a call with the US president and European allies on Wednesday, praising Mr Trump for his efforts to advance a viable chance of an end to the conflict. Concerns have been raised over the exclusion of Mr Zelensky in the meeting between Mr Trump and Putin; the Ukrainian leader has reiterated that there can be no talk of territorial concessions without his countrys involvement. Mr Trump 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. Mr Zelensky has warned Donald Trump and European leaders that Putin is bluffing over his intentions to end the war. Sir Keir said ahead of the Friday meeting: As Ive said personally to President Trump for the three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on, we havent got anywhere near a 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. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelensky are united in their strong resolve to secure a just peace in Ukraine ahead of the summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. After a meeting at No 10, the prime minister and the Ukrainian president expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce "as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious" about ending the war, Downing Street said. Mr Trump and the Russian president are due to meet in Alaska on Friday, raising fears the pair will try to decide the end of the war themselves, leaving Ukraine excluded and putting Europe's future security in jeopardy. The US president said he believed Putin will make a deal, during an interview on Fox News radio on Thursday - but then later appeared to play down expectations, suggesting a second meeting involving Mr Zelensky would be more important. As the world nervously awaits the meeting on Friday, Putin has dangled the idea that the talks could lead to Moscow and Washington reaching a deal on nuclear arms control. open image in gallery Starmer meets Zelensky at Downing Street ahead of Trump-Putin summit ( PA ) After their private breakfast meeting, seen as a show of support for Kyiv, Downing Street said Sir Keir and Mr Zelensky agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Downing Street added there was a viable chance to make progress as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about peace. As they entered No 10, Sir Keir embraced Mr Zelensky in front of the cameras. But the pair refused to be drawn on whether Mr Trump could be trusted. It comes after Mr Trump threatened severe consequences if Putin does not agree to peace in Ukraine. open image in gallery The two men met in Downing Street ( Getty ) After his meeting with Sir Keir, Mr Zelensky suggested he and the PM had war-gamed potential outcomes of the Trump-Putin summit. We continue to coordinate our positions, he said in a post on X. We discussed expectations for the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects. 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 also urged Britain to join Nato's Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative (Purl), which provides weapons to Kyiv, following a report that the UK is to scale back plans for a military peacekeeping force in Ukraine. Since the weekend, Europe has rallied behind Ukraines right to decide its own future, amid concerns over Mr Zelenskys exclusion from Fridays summit. At the weekend, Mr Trump suggested a truce could involve some "swapping" of land. But Mr Zelensky furiously rejected any proposal that would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity. Putin is expected to use the summit to demand that Ukraine cede parts of the Donbas region, which it still controls. The Kremlin said that meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, will start at 11.30am local time (8.30pm UK time). Russias foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, told reporters that Mr Trump and Putin will first sit down for one-on-one talks, followed by a meeting between the two delegations. Talks will then continue over "a working breakfast. Following a meeting with his top officials, Putin said in a short video released by the Kremlin on Thursday that the Trump administration was making "quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities" and to "reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved. Putin also suggested that "long-term conditions of peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole," could be reached under an agreement with the US on nuclear arms control. In Washington, Mr Trump said there was a 25 per cent chance that the summit would fail, but he also floated the idea that, if it succeeded, he could bring Mr Zelensky to Alaska for a three-way meeting. He told Fox News Radio: I believe now, he's convinced that he's going to make a deal. He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to, and we're going to find out. Later, while speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Mr Trump said he would not let Putin get the better of him, adding: Hes not going to mess around with me. He also highlighted the importance of a second meeting, whcih he said could also involve European leaders. Tomorrow [Friday], all I want to do is set the table for the next meeting, which should happen shortly, he said. While a sideshow over a social media post played out on one side of the courtroom door Wednesday, inside, a new pack of lawyers was taking control of Charlottesvilles legal defense in the lawsuit over the citys recently passed and more recently upended zoning ordinance. Circuit Judge Claude Worrell issued a challenge to the new legal team to present a scaled-down version of the case by Monday, a glimmer of hope for the city and proponents of higher-density development in Charlottesville. Livable Cville appreciates that Judge Worrell expedited the citys opportunity to make its arguments on the substantive merits of the lawsuit, the urbanist advocacy group told The Daily Progress in a post-hearing email. Worrell also revealed Wednesday that he hasnt changed his position since June 30, when he announced that the city defaulted and thereby lost the lawsuit challenging its new zoning ordinance because the original legal team failed to submit a document on time. The city is in default, Worrell repeated Wednesday. The only question is whether or not the court should rescue the city of Charlottesville from its default. So far, Worrell hasnt done that, but he also has not yet issued a written order, something that judges usually do to memorialize their decisions. For legal expert David Heilberg, its a perplexing situation starting with the June 30 default judgment. I was surprised that he came down so swift and hard on the city, said Heilberg, who had predicted otherwise. I cant tell if hes going to stick to his decision or give them another chance. The city wanted one badly enough that it replaced the original legal team from Roanoke-based Gentry Locke Ryan Starks and Scott Foster with a three-person team from the same firm. Backed by an associate named Jon Roellke, the new team appearing Wednesday included Monica Monday, the head of the firms appeals and critical issues practice, and Michael Finney, the leader of Gentry Lockes litigation section. It was mistake, an honest one, a good-faith mistake, said Finney. Finney agreed there should be consequences for that mistake, but not the loss of the case. Instead, he offered what he called a much more appropriate and proportionate result: compensation to the plaintiffs for the additional legal work caused by the late filing. Against the defense trio and sitting alone at the plaintiffs table was Ashley Hart from the Charlottesville law firm of Flora Pettit. The city is essentially rearguing its motion, Hart told the court. Thats not a proper basis for reconsideration. Worrell had already winnowed the case, filed 19 months ago, down to the general question of whether the city had properly planned for growth and the specific question of whether it had complied with a particular state transportation law. Have you had an opportunity to do the math with regard to the road trips per day, Worrell asked the defense. Hearing a no, he continued to hammer the transportation angle as he moved closer toward a decision. Worrell said the city has some good defenses, but he openly wondered about that statutory requirement to submit any new zoning ordinance that would substantially affect state highways to the Virginia Department of Transportation prior to enacting it. Im going to invite you to talk to me about transportation in writing, Worrell said to Finney. Otherwise, there is no good defense. That encouraged plaintiff Roy Van Doorn. The judge basically said today that the city needs to show that it complied with the intent of state law, and councilors have publicly said we dont need this and they didnt submit anything, so thats a hard road to hoe, Van Doorn told The Daily Progress. One issue that has confused city planners and developers since the default pronouncement is what to do about proposed developments. Worrell suggested Wednesday, contrary to some reports, that the former zoning code actually remains intact. From what I read in the statutes, the citys required to have a zoning ordinance, said Worrell. I dont think the city is allowed to replace something with nothing. What didnt come up in court was the brouhaha recently provoked by a social media post by New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie, a fervent urbanist who lives in Charlottesville. On Aug. 4, Bouie posted on social media platform Bluesky, an X competitor, that the city should demolish Van Doorns and other plaintiffs houses. Are you, asked a fellow Bluesky user, seriously advocating that the City of Charlottesville abuse its powers to inflict revenge on opponents of a zoning ordinance??? Yes, this is a totally serious suggestion, Bouie replied. I have even talked to my friends on city council about it because it is absolutely, definitely serious. That outraged Van Doorn and Jerry Cox, who leads the Forerunner Foundation, which has been assisting the nine plaintiffs battling the city as well as residents in Arlington and Alexandria challenge new zoning codes in those localities. I am making no further comments, said Cox after Wednesdays hearing, until the city disavows that they are conspiring to tear down the houses of people who oppose the zoning ordinance. Bouie said he made the comment in jest. I thought it clearly had the tone and intonation of sarcasm and I was ridiculing the notion that it was at all serious, Bouie told The Daily Progress in an email. I have not conferred with city councilors to demolish plaintiffs homes. That is ridiculous. Worrell has promised an opinion in the case by Aug. 22. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice British exports to the US have plummeted to their lowest level in three years in the wake of Donald Trumps swingeing tariffs. The 13.5 per cent fall comes despite a much-lauded US-UK trade agreement, designed to protect businesses from the worst of the added costs. Ministers are now facing calls to secure part of the deal that is still outstanding, on steel and aluminium, which still have a 25 per cent levy imposed on exports to the US. The wider tariffs have seen an extra 10 per cent slapped on goods from most UK sectors, ranging from food and drink to chemicals, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said. Comparing the goods exported in the three months to June with the same quarter a year ago, the BCC said sales were 2bn lower, a drop of 13.5 per cent year-on-year. Trump imposed tariffs on countries around the world, including the UK ( AFP/Getty ) The group said that exports of road vehicles had fallen by a whopping 29 per cent, while chemicals exports fell by 24 per cent. The findings come as new official figures also show that the uncertainty caused by the tariffs, as well as other factors such as tax increases, mean that overall UK economic growth slowed in the second quarter of this year. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.3 per cent for the quarter, after 0.7 per cent growth in the first three months of the year. However, the figure was stronger than the 0.1 per cent level widely expected by economists. William Bain, head of trade policy at the BCC, said the effects of tariffs were clearly being felt by companies exporting to the US. This was the first full quarter of the reciprocal US tariffs, which add an extra 10 per cent to most UK sectors, from food and drink to chemicals. The effect of these higher costs is becoming clear, with the lowest levels of goods exports to the US for 3 years. Implementation of the UKs trade deal with the US in full is now needed to improve prospects, particularly for steel and aluminium goods, he said. The agreement should be a platform to discuss further tariff reform with the US, especially in goods sectors where there is little competition on production. He also called on ministers to focus on implementing those areas of the Trade Strategy which can boost goods export sales and growth at pace, while sustaining the rate of progress in services trade. President Trump and the PM finally signed off on a US-UK agreement to slash trade barriers on goods when they met at the G7 in Canada in June. But the deal failed to include carve-outs for the steel industry, which still faces levies of a whopping 25 per cent on goods entering the US. Industry experts and unions have called for these to be scrapped as soon as possible, amid warnings they are a threat to jobs and livelihoods. But there are fears negotiations could drag on into the autumn after the transport secretary said work to get tariffs removed would continue over days, weeks and months. In April, parliament gave the government emergency powers to take control of British Steel and continue production after Chinese owners, Jingye, proposed shutting the Scunthorpe sites two blast furnaces and other key steelmaking operations. But its future is still uncertain. The Treasury had been approached for comment. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Get our free View from Westminster email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The UK has reportedly scaled back its plans to put troops in Ukraine, now offering a smaller reassurance force to support peace efforts in the region. While a 30,000-strong group from countries that make up the coalition of the willing a group of countries which have pledged support for Ukraine against Russias aggression had initially been floated, military chiefs are now said to have dropped the idea, instead favouring a smaller, more realistic operation. It comes as Sir Keir Starmer prepares to welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to No 10 on Thursday morning, as Europe rallies behind Ukraine. open image in gallery Allied national security advisers discussed the war in Ukraine at the weekend ahead of a meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin (Yevhen Titov/PA) ( AP ) It comes amid fears the country could be shut out of any peace talks when Donald Trump and Russias President Putin hold a historic summit on the future of the war in Alaska on Friday. The PM joined Donald Trump and European allies on a call to discuss the future of Ukraine on Wednesday, where he praised the US presidents work to bring forward a viable chance of an end to the devastating conflict. While Sir Keir had been in favour of a bigger coalition of the willing force, The Times reported that some European nations were concerned that such a large deployment to protect key Ukrainian sites was too risky. It is thought that the scaled-back force would not be sent to the frontline, instead providing logistical support, armament and training experts to support the regeneration of Ukraines own forces. However, the role the US is expected to play is still unclear. Speaking after Wednesdays meeting, Sir Keir said: Were ready to support this, including from the plans weve already drawn up to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased. It is important to remind colleagues that we do stand ready also to increase pressure on Russia, particularly the economy, with sanctions and wider measures as may be necessary. The PM said Fridays talks were hugely important, adding: As Ive said personally to President Trump for the three-and-a-bit years this conflict has been going on, we havent got anywhere near a 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. open image in gallery Trump is due to meet Putin in Alaska on Friday ( AFP/Getty ) But concerns have been raised over Mr Zelenskys exclusion from Fridays meeting between Mr Trump and Mr Putin. Sir Keir and European leaders have repeatedly stated that discussions about Ukraine should not take place without it, amid concerns that the country is being sidelined. Asked if he decided not to invite Mr Zelensky to the meeting, Mr Trump said no, just the opposite, before adding that a second meeting with the Ukrainian president could take place afterwards. Mr Trump has threatened Russia with "severe consequences" if a ceasefire is rejected by its leader. At the weekend, the US president suggested a truce could involve some "swapping" of land. Putin is expected to use the summit to demand that Ukraine cede parts of the Donbas region, which it still controls. On Saturday, Mr Zelensky rejected any proposal that would compromise Ukraine's territorial integrity, something that is forbidden by the country's constitution. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An American teen influencer whose ambitious solo flight around the world ground to a halt two months ago when he landed in Antarctica has struck a deal with Chilean authorities so he can finally leave the continent, according to reports. Ethan Guo, 19, has been trapped for almost two months after Chilean officials accused him on violating the nation's airspace and "multiple national and international" laws during the June leg of his trip, according to CBS News. Since 2024, Guo has travelled to six out of the seven continents: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia stopping at hospitals along the way to meet with child cancer patients, and discuss raising awareness with experts and medical professionals. He documents his journey on social media while raising funds for cancer research. It was during a flight out of Chile that Guo ran into trouble. Chile controls the airspace at and around the tip of South America and maintains territorial claims and a base in Antarctica. Chilean officials accused Guo of submitting a false flight plan before he left from Carlos Ibanez del Campo Airport in Punta Arenas. They claim that Guo deviated from his pre-approved flight plan - which would have taken him to Ushuaia, Argentina - and traveled to Antarctica instead. open image in gallery Ethan Guo, a 20-year-old pilot attempting to fly solo to every continent, was detained by Chilean authorities after he deviated from his flight plan and landed in Antarctica. Hes been trapped in Antarctica since June 28. ( AP ) On Monday, a judge ruled that Guo can leave King George Island, which is roughly 75 miles off Antarctica, if he donates $30,000 to a children's cancer foundation within 30 days. He has also been banned from reentering Chilean territories for three years. Guo agreed to the terms and told the Associated Press that he was "relieved by the outcome." "I remain in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight," Guo told the AP. "I sincerely hope they give it to me soon so that I and my plane can continue with my original mission." He told the New York Times that his time at the base has been quiet and lonely, and that he spent it reading science fiction books. Its very hard and its really isolating and lonely, he said in video call with the Times. That means, like solitude like, you know, confined solitude. open image in gallery American pilot Ethan Guo takes off from Geneva Airpor in Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday, August 6, 2024 for attempting world record solo flight all seven continents. ( ' KEYSTONE / SALVATORE DI NOLFI ) Guo told the outlet that he only landed at the Chilean base because ice was forming on his plane, causing him to lose control. The teen added that he lost contact with local air traffic controllers and he was losing speed. Guo said that he needed to land, and the Antarctic base was the closest safe haven. I was like, I dont care whats going to happen, Guo told the paper. Like, this is an emergency. I need to get down. He said he's unsure of exactly when he'll fly back to continental Chile, or how he'll get off King George Island. Chile's aviation authority said the young pilot could leave as soon as he pays for transportation off the island. He's been barred from flying his own plane because, according to Chilean authorities, his on-board life rafts and life vests are expired and because his plane does not have a functioning anti-icing system. open image in gallery A woman walks outside Chile's Eduardo Frei Air Force Base at King George Island, South Shetlands, Antarctica, Nov. 25, 2023. ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) Officials also noted that "there is no certainty that the remaining fuel on the aircraft will be enough to reach the city of Punta Arenas," which is about a six hour flight from the base where Guo is being detained. Guo told the Times he does not want to leave his Cessna plane behind and believes it's in good enough condition to make the flight. Guo not forced to stay on the island at any point, but the brutal winter conditions in that part of the southern hemisphere means that flying wasnt an option, AP repots. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice 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. Rising seas could put Easter Island's moai at risk by 2080, study warns Show all 2 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 The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Please, please, please - stop feeding the bears at Tennessees Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What may seem to be a kind gesture could result in a mauling, a fine of up to $5,000, or approximately half a year in jail for offenders, according to the National Park Service. The agency issued a warning to the parks visitors following three related but separate incidents that occurred in just the past week. The park has seen an increase in incidents involving visitors feeding bears. Feeding wildlife is illegal and endangers you, other visitors and bears, NPS explained in a statement. In one case, a visitor was observed feeding a mother bear and her two cubs, which is a federal offense. Law enforcement rangers issued a citation for this incident. open image in gallery A black bear munches on dandelions. Feeding the animal anything else could be deadly to both humans and bears. But, multiple incidents have been reported at Tennessees Great Smoky Mountains National Park within the past week ( NPS ) While the chances of a bear attacking you are one in 2.1 million, feeding bears can be just as dangerous for bears as it is for humans, sometimes resulting in the animal being euthanized. Doing so can result in the bear becoming conditioned to human food, losing its fear of humans, acting more aggressively toward visitors when looking for food, or being struck by a car. People who are irresponsible with the food they bring to a park also may be held responsible for a bears death. Right now, bear activity is especially high due to a scarcity of natural food sources, such as insects, berries, and fish. Thats combined with the stressors of peak breeding season, which occurs from May through August. open image in gallery The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, seen here, is home to some 1,900 American black bears. There are around two bears per square mile ( Getty Images/iStock ) During this time, mother bears separate from their 18-month-old cubs, leaving them to navigate on their own for the first time and increasing the risk of a human encounter. Some 1,900 black bears live in the park, or approximately two bears per square mile. The park is the most visited national park in the United States, with around 12 million visitors each year. This unique combination of high visitation and a thriving bear population increases the likelihood of human-bear encounters, especially when bears venture into developed areas in search of food, the Park Service said. Playing by the rules and guidelines can keep everyone safe. Dont feed or approach the bears and stay at least 150 feet away from them. Make sure to store all food and trash in a locked, hard-sided vehicle, or hang it using bear cables in backcountry areas. open image in gallery A young black bear is seen near its mother in Virginia's Shenandoah National Park. Black bears are found in 40 states ( AFP via Getty Images ) If you surprise a black bear and it attacks, fight it with everything you have. Stay alert, consider if you should carry bear spray, report unusual bear behavior, and leave dogs and pets at home. In the park, only the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail allow dogs, if they are on a leash. Visitors play a crucial role in their own safety and the well-being of our black bears. By practicing these precautions, you contribute to the conservation of black bears and foster a safer environment in the park, the park said. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A priceless manuscript page, bearing the signature of Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes from nearly five centuries ago, has been returned to Mexico by the FBI. The document was swiped from Mexico's national archives decades ago, marking a significant recovery for the nation's historical heritage. The FBI confirmed the document's authenticity, with Special Agent Jessica Dittmer of the agencys Art Crime Team stating: "This is an original manuscript page that was actually signed by Hernan Cortes on February 20, 1527." Cortes, who conquered the Aztec empire in 1521, signed the page just six years after his conquest. Due to the document changing hands multiple times, no charges will be filed. The theft was first discovered in 1993 when archivists at Mexicos General Archive of the Nation were microfilming their collection of Cortes documents, revealing 15 missing pages. It is believed the page, along with others, was stolen between 1985 and 1993. Mexico formally requested the FBIs Art Crime Teams assistance last year for this specific page. The front of a letter by Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes from Feb. 20, 1527, that was returned to the government of Mexico by the FBI ( FBI via AP ) The investigation, involving the New York City Police Department, the US Department of Justice, and the Mexican government, successfully traced the document to the United States, though its immediate possessor was not disclosed. It is the second Cortes document the FBI has returned to the Mexican government. In 2023, the agency returned a 16th-century letter from Cortes. Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexicos history, so this is something that the Mexicans have in their archives for the purpose of understanding history better, she said. Mexico has for decades sought the repatriation of cultural artifacts, including a delicate headdress made of iridescent quetzal feathers thought to have belonged to Aztec Emperor Moctezuma II, currently housed in an Austrian museum. Cortes landed in Mexico with a small army in 1519, when he formed alliances with local groups that opposed the Aztec empire, which helped him capture the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan - modern-day Mexico City - just two years later. The document is dated February 20, 1527, just days before one of Cortes' top lieutenants was appointed co-governor of the conquered territory. It was a key year for the formation of royal and religious institutions that would rule over the indigenous peoples of Mexico until its 1810 war of independence. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice As National Guard troops deploy across her city as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to clamp down on crime, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser is responding with relative restraint. She's called Trump's takeover of the city's police department and his decision to activate 800 members of the guard unsettling and unprecedented and gone as far as to cast his efforts as part of an authoritarian push. But Bowser has so far avoided the kind of biting rhetoric and personal attacks typical of other high-profile Democratic leaders, despite the unprecedented incursion into her city. Instead, she is cooperating with the administration's efforts, including having city workers clear homeless encampments, as Trump has demanded. While this action today is unsettling and unprecedented, I cant say that, given some of the rhetoric of the past, that were totally surprised, Bowser told reporters at a press conference responding to the efforts. She even suggested the surge in resources might benefit the city. The fact that we have more law enforcement and presence in neighborhoods, that may be positive, she said. Bowser argued her hands were largely tied, noting that limited home rule allows the federal government to intrude on our autonomy in many ways," and defended her approach. 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," she said. The approach underscores the reality of Washington's precarious position under the thumb of the federal government. Trump has repeatedly threatened an outright takeover of the overwhelmingly Democratic city, which is granted autonomy through a limited home rule agreement passed in 1973 that could be repealed by Congress. Republicans, who control both chambers, have already frozen more than a $1 billion in local spending, slashing the city's budget. That puts her in a very different position from figures such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom or Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Democrats whose states depend on the federal government for disaster relief and other funding, but who have nonetheless relentlessly attacked the current administration as they lay the groundwork for potential 2028 presidential runs. Those efforts come amid deep frustrations from Democratic voters that their party has not been nearly aggressive enough in its efforts to counter Trump's actions. Unfortunately she is in a very vulnerable position, said Democratic strategist Nina Smith. This is the sort of thing that can happen when you dont have the powers that come with being a state. So thats what were seeing right now, the mayor trying to navigate a very tough administration. Because this administration has shown no restraint when it comes to any kind of constitutional barriers or norms." Working together The impact on the city has been swift. On Wednesday, agents from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with members of the National Guard, joined Metropolitan Police Department officers on patrol across city neighborhoods, drawing protests from angry residents. And on Thursday, city workers began clearing homeless encampments a move Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Wayne Turnage said was taken after his office was notified by the National Park Service that federal agents would begin closing all encampments in the city, both on federal and District lands. He said that since the city has more social services resources than the federal government, he felt it was better for the city to do the job the way it should be done. Closing encampments is a very, very complex process, he said. Were dealing with human beings who, in many cases, have been marginalized. Their lives are being disrupted. And so we have put a process in place that we think respects that. A change from Trump's first term Bowser's approach marks a departure from Trumps first term, when she was far more antagonistic toward the president. Then she routinely clashed with the administration, including having city workers paint giant yellow letters spelling out Black Lives Matter on a street near the White House during the George Floyd protests in 2020. This time around, Bowser took a different tack from the start. She flew to Florida to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago after he won the election and has worked to avoid conflict and downplay points of contention, including tearing up the Black Lives Matter letters after he returned to Washington in response to pressure from Republicans in Congress. The change reflects the new political dynamics at play, with Republicans in control of Congress and an emboldened Trump who has made clear he is willing to exert maximum power and push boundaries in unprecedented ways. D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson said she understands Bowsers position, and largely agrees with her conclusion that a legal challenge to Trump's moves would be a long shot. Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act in his executive order, declaring a crime emergency so his administration could take over the citys police force. The statue limits that control to 30 days unless he gets approval from Congress. The challenge would be on the question of Is this actually an emergency?' said Henderson, a former congressional staffer. Thats really the only part you could challenge. Henderson believes the city would face dim prospects in a court fight, but thinks the D.C. government should challenge anyway, just on the basis of precedent. Trump told reporters Wednesday that he believes he can extend the 30-day deadline by declaring a national emergency, but said "we expect to be before Congress very quickly. Were gonna be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days," he said. Were gonna do this very quickly. But were gonna want extensions. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will. Limited legal options As mayor of the District of Columbia, Bowser has a very different relationship with the president and federal government than other mayors or governors. The city is home to thousands of federal workers, and the mass layoffs under DOGE have already had a major impact on the citys economy. Bowsers response is a reflection of the reality of the situation, according to a person familiar with her thinking. Her strategy has been to focus on finding areas where she and the new administration can work together on shared priorities. For now, Bowser appears set to stick with her approach, saying Wednesday that she is focused on making sure the federal surge is useful to us. During a Wednesday morning interview with Fox 5, she and the city's police chief said an influx of federal agents linked to Trumps takeover would improve public safety, with more officers on patrol. Police chief Pamela Smith said the citys police department is short almost 800 officers, so the extra police presence is clearly going to impact us in a positive way. But Nina Smith, the Democratic strategist, said she believes Bowser needs a course correction. How many times is it going to take before she realizes this is not someone who has got the best interests of the city at heart?" she asked. I think there may need to be time for her to get tough and push back. ___ Associated Press writers Ashraf Khalil and Will Weissert in Washington contributed to this report. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice New Yorks three-year-old recreational marijuana licensing system has been thrown into disarray after officials admitted a fundamental error in how they measure the legally mandated distance between cannabis dispensaries and schools. For years, the state had been using a simple door-to-door measurement, but it has now emerged that they misread the law, which requires the 500-foot (152-metre) buffer to be measured from the edge of a schools property line. This startling admission, made by the Office of Cannabis Management last month, has plunged approximately 100 cannabis shops into uncertainty, leaving them to await a legislative fix or face potential relocation. Osbert Orduna, who owns The Cannabis Place in New York City, now deemed too close to a nearby preschool, described the news as like dropping "a grenade in the laps" of business owners. He added: "The way that they executed this was a complete and utter failure in leadership." The blunder represents the latest setback for New Yorks struggling legal marijuana programme. open image in gallery Yerba Buena, a marijuana dispensary, in the Brooklyn borough of New York ( Associated Press/Seth Wenig ) The initiative has been consistently hampered by legal challenges, a sluggish rollout, and significant regulatory gaps that have inadvertently allowed an illicit market to flourish across the state. Businesses now face an anxious wait as authorities grapple with the implications of their misinterpretation. To give you this news, and for the weight of it, I am incredibly sorry, said Felicia A.B. Reid, acting executive director of the cannabis agency, said in notices to the businesses. The error impacts a sizable share of the states roughly 450 cannabis dispensaries. About 60 of those were licensed using the erroneous measurement system, mostly in New York City, plus around another 40 that have licenses but are yet to open their doors. On top of that, there are almost 50 other businesses that have applied for licenses under the incorrect measurement system and are awaiting final approval from the agency. The state has set aside a pot of money where applicants can get up to $250,000 to help relocate. open image in gallery Jillian Dragutsky, who owns Yerba Buena in Brooklyn, is worried about the future of her business ( Associated Press/Seth Wenig ) The existing shops have been told they can remain open for now, and even continue to operate with their expired licenses as long as the businesses file an application for a renewal. Regulators say they are urging state lawmakers to create a permanent fix that will allow the shops to stay put. But they have also noted that is not guaranteed. The state Legislature isnt scheduled to sit again until January. Meanwhile, business owners say they're being forced to operate in a gray area. Jillian Dragutsky, who opened a dispensary called Yerba Buena in Brooklyn a few months ago, worries the issue still jeopardises a dispensarys ability to bank, get insurance and purchase inventory since they are supposed to have valid licenses in place. How do you grow your business not knowing where youre going to be a few months from now? Dragutsky said. In a statement, the cannabis office said businesses can obtain proof of a valid license or a letter of good standing to operate by contacting the agency. open image in gallery About 60 of those were licensed using the erroneous measurement system, mostly in New York City, plus around another 40 that have licenses but are yet to open their doors ( Associated Press ) An internal review of the cannabis office released last year detailed numerous problems at the agency, including inexperienced management and shifting licensure rules, while state leaders promised an administrative overhaul. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who has previously said the program has been a disaster, called the school proximity problem a major screw up and vowed to find a legislative fix. These people have worked hard. Theyve waited a long time. They put their life savings into something that they thought was going to help them support their families, she said. So what Im been doing is first of all reassuring them that youre going to be OK. Secondly, we need to get the law changed to have a fix. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Robloxs chief executive is facing a wave of fury after his company sent a cease and desist letter to a YouTuber known for exposing alleged child predators on the online gaming platform. The Roblox Corporation reportedly issued a legal complaint last week to a 22-year-old content creator known as Schlep, who revealed this in a YouTube video. The chief executive of the platform is founder David Baszucki. Sharing the full cease and desist letter on X, the companys lawyers cited violations such as simulated child endangerment and sharing personal information. They argued that such actions bypassed official moderation channels. Schlep, a self-styled predator hunter who has over 767,000 YouTube subscribers, had all associated Roblox accounts terminated in the high-profile conflict with the company. open image in gallery The YouTuber known as Schlep has voiced his outrage after Roblox hit him with a cease and desist letter ( Libs of TikTok/X ) In return, Schlep, who claims his investigations led to six arrests of individuals attempting to groom minors on Roblox, accused the company of repeatedly ignoring evidence presented by him and other vigilante streamers. In his video, Schlep alleges that his motivations stem from personal experience having been groomed as a child on the platform, which he said led to a suicide attempt. The Independent has approached Schlep for comment and to seek verification of his claims. Schlep also claimed that Baszucki blocked him on X. Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has launched an online petition against Roblox, accusing the platform of insufficient child safety measures. He hopes to garner one million signatures by Friday. Roblox is simply not doing enough to protect our kids, to inform parents, and to go after child predators, Khanna said in a TikTok video. open image in gallery Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna has launched an online petition against Roblox, accusing the platform of insufficient child safety measures ( Getty Images for Court Accountab ) After Robloxs legal threat, Schlep reached out to Republican Senator Ted Cruz on X and then by email on Monday, advocating for political attention to the companys safety policies. Schlep argued that the platforms alleged negligence toward protecting young players had already been the subject of lawsuits in Texas. It was not immediately clear whether Cruzs office responded. The incident has sparked widespread backlash, reigniting debate over platform moderation versus vigilante actions, with critics accusing Roblox of hypocrisy and placing legal threats above child safety. Campaigns such as #FreeSchlep and #BoycottRoblox have gained traction, supported by major creators like MoistCr1TiKal and JiDeon. A petition calling for Baszucki to fix what hes caused or resign had more than 48,000 signatures by Thursday morning. Another video citing the petitions for the Roblox CEOs resignation surpassed 1.2 million views on YouTube. After the wave of backlash, Roblox Corporation released a statement on Wednesday explaining why it removed vigilante groups from the platform, without explicitly naming Schlep. While seemingly well-intentioned, the vigilantes weve banned have taken actions that are both unacceptable and create an unsafe environment for users, it said. Similar to actual predators, they often impersonated minors, actively approached other users, then tried to lead them to other platforms to have sexually explicit conversations. Roblox said that while most chats between its more than 111 million daily active users are safe and civil, there are bad actors that attempt to evade its moderation system. The company emphasized that reporting through official channels is safer and more effective than vigilante actions. The Independent has contacted the Roblox Corporation for more information. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice As California Governor Gavin Newsom was verbally bashing President Donald Trump in a Los Angeles auditorium Thursday afternoon, Border Patrol agents swarmed outside and made at least one arrest. News video showed a group of agents in tactical gear as someone wearing handcuffs was escorted through the crowd. Newsom acknowledged the law enforcement presence during a speech he was giving inside the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center in Little Tokyo, Right outside, at this exact moment, dozens and dozens of ICE agents. "Donald Trump, you think its coincidental? Donald Trumps minions, [border czar] Tom Homan, decided this was a location theyd advance, the governor said. He then referenced a phrase from Senator Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and added, We will punch back." open image in gallery As California Governor Gavin Newsom was verbally bashing President Donald Trump in a Los Angeles auditorium, Border Patrol agents swarmed outside and made at least one arrest ( Mario Tama/Getty Images ) Border Patrol Sector Commander Gregory Bovino told NBC4 Los Angeles while the agency was conducting immigration enforcement patrols, it detained one person, who he claimed was in the country illegally. Bovino told Fox 11 Los Angeles right after the arrest, Were here making Los Angeles a safer place since we wont have politicians that will do that, we do that ourselves. Following his speech, Newsom said of the agents outside, I think it's pretty sick and pathetic. They chose the time, manner, and place to send their district director outside right when we're about to have this press conference, that everything you know about Donald Trump's America...about the authoritarian tendencies of the President, he told reporters. Newsom and Trump have ramped up insults against each other after the president deployed about 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June to quell mass protests against his mass migrant deportation efforts. The governor went as far as to sue the Trump administration over the National Guards deployment. A federal judge conducted a three-day trial this week to determine if the deployment is lawful. The judge is yet to make a ruling. Some 250 National Guard troops remain in Los Angeles, the Associated Press recently reported, citing the Pentagon. open image in gallery Customs and Border Patrol agents stand outside an armored vehicle near MacArthur Park in Los Angeles on July 7 ( Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images ) Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was fired up over the federal agents patrol Thursday, telling reporters, There is no way this was a coincidence. This was widely publicized that the governor and many of our other elected officials were having a press conference here to talk about redistricting, and they decided they were gonna come and thumb their nose in front of the governors face, she said. Bass called the move unbelievably disrespectful and provocative. Theyre talking about disorder in Los Angeles, and they are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now, she said. There was no danger here. There was no need to detain anyone here. open image in gallery Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was fired up over the federal agents patrol Thursday, calling it, 'unbelievably disrespectful' ( Mario Tama/Getty Images ) Newsom and other Democratic leaders announced Thursday they will continue with a plan to redraw congressional maps in their favor. With the new maps, the Democrats hope to gain five more House seats in the 2026 election. Newsom called for a special election on November 4, so voters can decide on the new maps. State lawmakers plan to declare the special election next week, per the Associated Press. The move is in response to a Texas Republican effort to pick up five more seats, which Trump recently told CNBC they are entitled to. Following Newsoms speech, Senator Schiff wrote on X, Dear Donald, and shared an image of the California flag, which displays the famous grizzly bear, with altered text that reads, Dont Poke The Bear. open image in gallery Newsom said Thursday, 'Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back' ( Apu Gomes/Getty Images ) This is a developing story... The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice 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. What to expect from the talks Russian and American delegations have arrived in Alaska ahead of the talks later on Friday, with Trumps ceasefire hopes uncertain, but with a last gasp offer from Mr Putin of a possible nuclear deal that could help both men save face. Trump insisted the Russian president was not going to mess around with me ahead of the first meeting between the two leaders since 2018, saying he thinks both will make peace. He has said that, if the talks go well, he will set up a subsequent three-way summit with Zelensky who was not invited to Fridays meeting. Putin, whose war economy is showing signs of strain, needs Trump to help Russia break out of ever-tightening Western sanctions, or at the very least not hit Moscow with more sanctions. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Months after conspiracy theorist Alex Jones mocked The Onion after the satirical news outlets proposed purchase Jones Infowars was rejected by a federal bankruptcy court, a state judge ruled this week that the far-right platform can once again be sold clearing the way for The Onion to resurrect its bid. In a Wednesday hearing in Texas district court, Judge Maya Guerra Gamble ordered the assets of Infowars parent company Free Speech systems to be handed over to a court-appointed receiver, who will then start the process of selling them off in order to pay the roughly $1.3 billion that Jones owes the families of the Sandy Hook shooting victims. The families, who have spent nearly three years attempting to collect on the judgment in federal bankruptcy court, were awarded the damages over Jones repeated false and baseless claims that the Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax and that the children killed were crisis actors. Last year, The Onion backed by the Sandy Hook families had won a court-ordered auction to purchase Infowars, with plans to turn the far-right conspiracy outlet into a parody site that would mock the conservative media ecosphere. Additionally, The Onion said that it planned on entering into an advertising agreement with gun-control advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. That sale was blocked in December, however, after a federal bankruptcy judge ruled that the acquisition was flawed and that he would not approve the sale, citing issues regarding the transparency of the process. That allowed Jones to keep Infowars for the time being and he celebrated on-air by using music from Star Wars to mock The Onion.fee open image in gallery Alex Jones may soon be forced to vacate Infowars studios after a Texas state judge ruled that a court-appointed receiver can begin selling assets. ( AFP via Getty Images ) We are deeply disappointed in today's decision, but The Onion will continue to seek a resolution that helps the Sandy Hook families receive a positive outcome for the horror they endured, Ben Collins, CEO of The Onions parent company Global Tetrahedron, said after the December ruling. A giddy Jones, meanwhile, read Collins statement on his show at the time alongside the Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back. I told you guys. We werent going down, Jones boasted. While halting the sale to The Onion, the federal bankruptcy judge suggested to the Sandy Hook families that they should go take their case to state court to get what theyre owed from Jones, of which he has yet to pay a dime. And now, according to Gambles ruling, it appears that Jones could soon be locked out of the Infowars studios. According to Wednesdays order, the receiver has the power to collect all accounts receivable change the locks to all premises at which any property is situated access all storage facilities, safe-deposit boxes, [and] real property and exercise control over any website [of Jones]. Additionally, the receiver can turn to local law enforcement for help carrying out his duties and exercising his powers. Unsurprisingly, Jones was not happy about the ruling. I'm pretty p*ssed off and wound up, he grumbled on Wednesdays broadcast, telling his viewers: This fight is your fight. Attorneys for the families, meanwhile, said that the judges order was a critically important step closer to achieving the goal of holding Alex Jones accountable for years of harm, specifically noting that it could finally lead to Infowars shuttering for good. The receiver is now authorized to liquidate his business assets, and we look forward to the corrupt media empire that Jones built finally being dismantled, attorney Chris Mattei, who represents the Connecticut-based families, told NPR. The families are pleased that the court has placed InfoWars parent company into receivership, which will finally lead to accountability for Alex Jones' monstrously cruel harassment," Mark Bankston, another lawyer for the families, stated. open image in gallery Jones raged about the judge's ruling on Wednesday while telling his viewers that this is their fight now. ( Infowars ) As for the likelihood that The Onion can finally complete its purchase of Infowars now that its in a receivership, legal experts said that it may not be a panacea but the conditions are now more favorable for a sale. From a creditor's point of view, you're most often better off under state law because the state court may be able to operate with greater speed and flexibility[and fewer] constraints than the bankruptcy judge has to deal with, Larry Ponoroff, dean and professor emeritus at Tulane Law School, told NPR. Reached for comment, Collins told The Independent that while he wasnt at liberty to fully discuss the situation right now, he could say that were working on it. Throughout this entire process, Jones has also insisted that even if the Infowars brand and property are taken from him, he will continue to stay on the air by stating another company. Still, because a bankruptcy judge ruled his behavior willful and malicious, the families could continue to make claims on any money Jones makes in the future through other business ventures. In June, Jones was accused by the trustee overseeing his personal bankruptcy of trying to shield assets of more than $5 million to avoid paying on the Sandy Hook judgment. This included allegations that Jones fraudulently transferred $1.5 million to his wife, $800,000 to his father and attempted to hide his ownership of two condominiums with a combined value of $1.5 million. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A 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." open image in gallery 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. open image in gallery 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. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Canadas moves to boycott imported American beers, wines and spirits in response to President Donald Trumps tariff aggressions is reportedly beginning to take its toll. Anti-Trump sentiment remains strong in Canada after the natives took exception to the presidents alarming talk earlier this year about annexing their country and making it the 51st state, a mood that ushered in the moderate Mark Carney as its new prime minister in March while right-leaning opposition leader Pierre Poilievre lost his seat. Canadian stores have since cleared bottles of Jack Daniels, Makers Mark and Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum from their shelves and replaced them with domestic alternatives like Maverick Distillerys Barnburner Whisky and Kavi Reserve Coffee Blended Canadian Whisky. open image in gallery A sign in a liquor store in Vancouver, British Columbia, urges shoppers to Buy Canadian Instead in response to Donald Trumps trade war ( AP ) The impact of the snub, a patriotic show of defiance in the face of Trumps 35 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, is now beginning to be felt, according to The Wall Street Journal. The newspaper reports that the Distilled Spirits Council estimates that American liquor sales in Canada have plummeted 62 percent year-on-year for the first six months of 2025. The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, which is responsible for the 688 stores licensed to sell alcohol in the countrys most populous province, is meanwhile reporting zero sales of American goods, representing the obliteration of what was last year a $700 million industry. Meanwhile, in California, the wineries belonging to the Golden States Wine Institute trade group say their products have lost more than $173 million in export value in the first half of this year, no surprise given that Canada was the destination for 35 percent of its exported cases. The absence of U.S. wine from Canadian stores is not just a market disruption, its a breakdown in a trusted relationship built over decades, the institutes CEO Robert Koch told the WSJ. This is not just about wine. Its about farming families, rural jobs and businesses that depend on access to international markets. Another California business, Hope Family Wines, said its sales to Canada are down 10 percent since Trump returned to the White House in January. Its definitely going to hurt us personally, said executive vice president Gretchen Roddick of the presidents trade war. open image in gallery A Liquor Control Board of Ontario employee removes American whiskey from the shelves of a store in Toronto ( AP ) In Baltimore, Sagamore Spirits CEO Robert Cullins said 10 percent of his companys rye whiskey was shipped north before the president commenced his second term, but no longer, adding that the $2 million loss in sales that represents is pretty significant to a small craft distillery. On the other side of the coin, the boycott has inspired a 14 percent uptick in sales of Canadian liquor in Ontario. Trump has responded to his trade policy backfiring by griping that Americas neighbor is mean and nasty to deal with but Alberta, for one, has moved to reintroduce sales of American brands in June albeit with a 25 percent retaliatory tariff of its own slapped on for good measure. Sales of U.S. bourbon and wine have duly rebounded despite that, according to one Calgary store owner, who told the WSJ: People are scared that maybe they wont be able to get them again. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has told podcaster Joe Rogan that Congress has seen proof of interdimensional beings. I think that they can actually operate through the time spaces that we currently have, Luna said on Wednesdays episode of the Joe Rogan Experience. And thats not something that I came up with on my own. Thats based on stuff that weve seen. Thats based on information that weve been told, she claimed. Luna, and Kentucky Republican Rep. James Comer, sent letters in February to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, asking for a briefing on all records connected to UAP -- unidentified anomalous phenomena. The congresswoman, a rising star of the MAGA movement who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, claimed that via her investigations, shes uncovered new information. open image in gallery Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna appeared on Wednesdays episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. She told Rogan that Congress has seen proof of interdimensional beings. ( The Joe Rogan Experience ) Based on testimony that would be based on witnesses that have come forward. But what I can tell you is just were told that ... theyve seen things, Luna told Rogan. And what I can tell you without getting into classified conversations is that there have been incidences that I believe were very credible people have reported that there have been movements outside of time and space, she added. Based on the photos that Ive seen, Im very confident that theres things out there that have not been created by mankind. She went on to explain that while she has not seen a spaceship or a portal, shes searching for information that could lead her to more evidence. Luna leads a task force working on the declassification of federal secrets, organized by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. She told Rogan that during her time working as an airfield manager with the Portland International Guard, she met F-15 pilots who had likely encounters with UAPs. open image in gallery This image from footage provided by the Department of Defense, from 2015, shows an unexplained object as it soars high along the clouds, traveling against the wind ( Department of Defense ) She added that she has seen photographic and historical evidence, and that she has spoken to pilots in the Air Force who alleged that UAP sightings are being covered up. Theres definitely something that I can tell you with confidence, that we dont know how to explain currently, said Luna. The Florida lawmaker added that she thinks the U.S. has reverse-engineered technology to build crafts originally created by non-humans. Luna criticized the intelligence community for allegedly withholding information on UAPs, and similar matters. When you have thousands upon thousands of people throughout time that have reported something, to say that those people are crazy, to say that the whole concept of just asking the question [may mean] that you are not psychologically sound, that in itself is a disinformation campaign to get people to shut up about it, she said. We know the U.S. government has not exactly been clean in a lot of what theyve done with the American people, specifically to the topic of UFOs, she added. The congresswoman argued that there is a protective complex from authorities who think that Americans might not be able to handle the realities of what has been found. open image in gallery U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Maj. David Grusch testified before a House Oversight subcommittee hearing on UFOs on July 26, 2023 ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) In the last few years, Congress has addressed the issue of UAPs. Lawmakers have been pushing for more transparency and a safe reporting system for those encountering such phenomena, with a number of congressional hearings and investigations held. In November last year, subcommittees of the House Oversight Committee held a joint hearing entitled "Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena: Exposing the Truth." That came after the Pentagon issued a report in March 2024 stating that they had found no evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft. In July 2023, a House Oversight subcommittee also held a hearing with three former military officials who said they think the government knows much more about UAPs than its letting on. Hearings have also included testimony from former intelligence officials and experts. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice White House officials are reportedly skeptical that Corey Lewandowski, a political advisor who is currently a temporary special government employee, has been trying to avoid hitting the maximum number of days he may work so he can remain part of the Department of Homeland Security. Since February, Lewandowski has been working with Secretary Kristi Noem, often joining her on international trips, helping arrange meetings and making decisions about DHS staff. The twos working relationship is close enough that some DHS staff reportedly refer to Lewandowski as Noems de facto chief of staff or shadow secretary. Officially, Lewandowski is considered a senior adviser who may work in the administration for a maximum of 130 days per year, a rule imposed under his special government employee status the same status that was held by Elon Musk. But unnamed administration officials told Axios they believe Lewandowski is trying to evade his expiration date by sneaking into buildings with other staffers to avoid swiping his badge, and using a non-government email to conduct business. open image in gallery Unnamed White House officials claim Corey Lewandowski, a political operative working as a special government employee, may be trying to avoid meeting his maximum work days ( Getty Images ) We're hearing that Corey's doing everything failing to swipe in, working from home, whatever to undercount his days, a White House official told Axios. It's fair to say his work is being watched now. DHS told Axios Thursday that Lewandowski has only worked 69 days, a number that several administration officials cast doubt on. In July, the White House released a government-wide memorandum, reminding those with special employee status about the 130-day limit and included guidance on how those days should be computed. An official familiar with the memorandum said it was not directed at any specific employee. A DHS employee keeps track of Lewandowskis time and submits paperwork on a biweekly basis. The Independent has asked the Department of Homeland Security and the White House for comment. Lewandowski has amassed considerable power serving as Noems apparent right-hand man, according to reports. He was spotted with Noem while traveling across South America to participate in bilateral meetings as well as trips to Europe, Florida, and Phoenix. He has also secured enough authority to request that employees be fired or placed on administrative leave, according to CNN. open image in gallery Lewandowski pictured to the right of Noem at a meeting in Guatemala about the administration's immigration policies ( Getty Images ) Lewandowski and Noem, both of whom are married, have also been subject to extramarital affair rumors. They have repeatedly staunchly denied the allegations. Noem specifically called them a disgusting lie. A DHS spokesperson previously told the Wall Street Journal that the department doesnt waste time with salacious, baseless gossip. Lewandowski, a longtime Republican operative, is a well-known and polarizing figure in Trumpworld. He managed Trumps first presidential campaign between 2015 and 2016, but parted ways with the team months before the election. He remains an ally to the president and briefly returned to serve as a senior adviser during Trumps third election campaign in 2024. However, his role was changed due to an internal power struggle with other senior Trump campaign officials, according to reports. A spokesperson for the department told the Journal that Lewandowski chose to work for DHS because his wifes first husband died in 9/11. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A new immigration detention facility, expected to be the largest in the United States, is set to open this week after facing months of delays, including a failed contract and a workplace death. The detention facility, dubbed Lonestar Lockup by Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn, will begin receiving hundreds of people on August 17. The site at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, has an initial capacity of approximately 1,000, but that will expand to 5,000, making it the largest Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in the country. Donald Trumps administration has rushed to open detention camps including in Florida, dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, and Indianas Speedway Slammer, to fulfill the presidents mass deportation agenda. More than 60,000 people are now being held in immigrant detention centers, according to internal ICE records obtained by The New York Times, breaking the previous record of 55,654 people in August 2019. The process of building the soft-sided tent camp at the Texas military base has been beset by controversies since the beginning. open image in gallery The largest immigration detention facility in the US at Fort Bliss, Texas, is expected to hold roughly 5,000 immigrants ( Reuters ) For the past six months, Trump officials have been seeking to build an ICE facility on a military base, eventually settling on Fort Bliss. In April, the administration initially awarded a multi-billion-dollar contract to a company called Deployed Resources to build the Fort Bliss camp but it was quickly canceled. A White House document about the contract claims it was terminated for convenience, citing Trumps executive order on wasteful spending and transparency. Weeks later, the government offered two contracts to build and maintain the facility, but both offers were pulled before they could be awarded to a new company. It is unclear why. Finally, in July, the Department of Defense announced it had secured a $231.9 million contract, under a Navy program, with Acquisition Logistics LLC to construct and operate the ICE detention facility in El Paso. Another company that did not win the bid, Gemini Tech Services LLC., filed a bid protest in July. While it is sealed, a source told NBC News the company was seeking to stop construction of the facility. The Fort Bliss project is also subject of two investigations by the Government Accountability Office, an independent nonpartisan agency that audits, investigates, and evaluates government services, according to NBC News. Those investigations are for improper bidding. Last month, the project faced tragedy after Hector Gonzalez, a 38-year-old employee with a subcontracted company, died in a workplace accident. The death is being investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as well as the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division. Hector was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and co-worker and he will be greatly missed. Our support and prayers are with his entire family, a spokesperson for his company, Disaster Management Group, told NBC News. In response to questions about the bid protest and workplace accident death, an Army spokesperson told NBC News that they are aware of the GAO protest for the Acquisition Logistics contract, but could not discuss the issue due to ongoing litigation. open image in gallery Trump with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at Alligator Alcatraz in Florida. He has prioritized carrying-out the largest deportation of undocumented immigrants in the country ( AP ) However, we can confirm that this protest is unrelated to the recent death, which is under investigation, the Army spokesperson added. In a statement, ICE said that the Fort Bliss facility will adhere to the agencys detention standards and will include access to legal representation, visitation, recreation space, and medical treatment space. The immigration detention center will also provide balanced meals and necessary accommodations, ICE stated. The facility with serve as a detention center and processing center, streamlining the removal process, ICE noted. "Upon completion, this will be the largest federal detention center in history for this critical mission - the deportation of illegal aliens," Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said. So far, several states have assisted the federal government by building detention facilities including Florida, which erected Alligator Alcatraz, a tent camp and temporary holding center in the Everglades. Its been subject to scrutiny by lawmakers and detainees for its poor conditions. Similarly, the Speedway Slammer, an extension of the Miami Correctional Facility in Indiana, has also been subject to criticism from local people who believe the facility is an inhumane way of housing immigrants. Both facilities were built quickly to assist in the administrations mass deportation agenda which has compounded worries from Democratic lawmakers and immigration advocates that the locations are unable to meet the stringent requirements of an ICE facility. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice George Conway, a conservative and leading critic of President Donald Trump, has compared the Republican to a fictional mobster when discussing the DC streets takover. Conway and former Homeland Security official Miles Taylor appeared on MSNBC Wednesday to discuss Trumps takeover of Washington, D.C. Trump placed the D.C. police force under federal control and deployed the National Guard to the nations capital. Trump has claimed the move was in response to out of control crime that is getting worse, though data shows violent crime in D.C. has been declining since it hit a peak in 2023. In response, Conway compared Trump to Tony Soprano, a fictional crime boss from the TV series The Sopranos. Conway has long criticized Trump and was once married to Kellyanne Conway, who served as an adviser to the president during his first term. We don't have Ronald Reagan anymore, Conway told MSNBC, referring to the former conservative president. We have Tony Soprano. He's holding people up, threatening them, bullying them, doing things that are beyond his legal power to do. And that scares people. The Independent has contacted the White House for comment. open image in gallery George Conway compared President Donald Trump to the fictional mob boss Tony Soprano as he discussed the White House take over of DC streets ( MSNBC ) Conway went on to argue that the president intimidates and threatens his perceived enemies. We see the intimidation of people who have had the courage, like Miles [Taylor], to speak out and criticize the president, Conway said. There is no limit to how low he will go, and what he will do to intimidate and to threaten and to assert power over things. Taylor served as the Department of Homeland Security Chief of Staff under Trumps first administration. In 2018, Taylor penned an anonymous op-ed titled, I Am Part of the Resistance Inside the Trump Administration. Taylor wrote that many Trump appointees have vowed to do what we can to preserve our democratic institutions while thwarting Mr. Trumps more misguided impulses until he is out of office. Trump signed an executive order in April targeting Taylor, stripping him of his security clearance and ordering the Justice Department to investigate his conduct. At the time, Taylor told The Independent that he predicted Trump might target him. Taylors attorneys then sent a letter to inspectors general at the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security calling on them to investigate Trumps executive order. Taylor described the ordeal as destructive to his personal life. This has not been made easy, because once you are on the president's blacklist, all sorts of things in your life start to implode, businesses, relationships, friendships, financial, you have an army of lawyers, he told MSNBC. open image in gallery National Guard troops patrol near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Trump deployed about 800 troops and took federal control of the D.C. police force on Monday ( Getty Images ) Later in the segment, Conway went on to say hes concerned about federal involvement in local law enforcement throughout the country. This comes after Trump revealed Wednesday that his actions in D.C. will serve as a beacon for New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and other places all over the country. I also think it's important that people understand why it is that this kind of federal overreach is bad, and it's bad because it consolidates power in a federal government. And as Americans, we have never, never wanted that to happen, Conway said. We've always had a federal system where local authorities handle local things like crime and safety on the streets, public safety. For the federal government to get involved in that stuff it's just a prescription for potential abuse, because they can do it all over the country, and there are no checks, he added. So that's why we have to really draw the line here and fight back. Trump also said he wants to extend the federal takeover of the D.C. police past its 30-day limit, which would require Congressional authorization. Trump said he expects the Republicans will do it almost unanimously. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Department of Homeland Security is facing criticism from brands and artists for using their work in memes posted to its social media accounts. The DHS maintains a busy presence on X and Instagram, regularly posting mugshots of undocumented migrants alongside tweets encouraging people to join ICE. The department recently attracted a savage response from the creators of South Park after it repurposed a still from the show satirising ICE during an episode that mocked the Trump administration and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in particular. open image in gallery Under DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the departments social media activity has ramped up, posting arrest updates alongside allegedly humorous memes ( Getty ) Before that, the DHS posted a spoof of a commercial for the British low-cost airline Jet2 featuring music from Jess Glynne to draw an allegedly humorous parallel between summer vacations and its mass deportation push. A spokesperson for the company said the parody was not endorsed by us in any way, and we are very disappointed to see our brand being used to promote government policy such as this. Glynne herself said she felt sick when she first learned of the misuse of her 2015 song Hold My Hand and commented on Instagram that it is about love, unity and spreading positivity never about division or hate. The DHSs use of the paintings Morning Pledge by Thomas Kinkade and A Prayer for a New Life by Morgan Weistling has likewise provoked complaints from the Kinkade Family Foundation and Weistling himself, with both parties stating that the use was unauthorized and objecting to the appropriation. We strongly condemn the sentiment expressed in the post and the deplorable actions that DHS continues to carry out, the foundation wrote in a statement on behalf of Kinkade posted to X. open image in gallery Homeland Security Investigations officers detain a person on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday ( Getty ) Responding to the criticism, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said: The Department of Homeland Security is bypassing the mainstream media to give Americans the facts, debunk the lies, and unapologetically celebrate our homeland, heritage, and the rule of law. We are pleased that the media is highlighting DHSs historic successes in making America safe again. Glynne is not the only musical act the department has upset through its posting. The rock band Black Rebel Motorcycle Club reacted to the department using its cover of Gods Gonna Cut You Down by saying: Its obvious that you dont respect Copyright Law and Artist Rights any more than you respect Habeas Corpus and Due Process rights, not to mention the separation of Church and State per the US Constitution Go f*** yourselves. The estates of Woody Guthrie and Tom Petty have also complained about the use of This Land is Your Land and Wont Back Down respectively. open image in gallery Federal agents detain a man as they patrol the halls of immigration court at the Jacob K Javitz Federal Building in New York City on August 5 2025 ( Getty ) Such reactions have become a familiar complaint for the Trump administration. Last month, Metallica forced the Pentagon to remove their classic track Enter Sandman from a video featuring Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promoting military drones, again saying its use was unauthorized. Trump himself has received a deluge of objections from artists unhappy with his use of their songs to soundtrack his political activities. Linkin Park, Queen, and Neil Young all complained during his first term, as did the Foo Fighters, Isaac Hayes, and Jack White throughout last summers presidential campaign. White was particularly incensed about the Republicans use of Seven Nation Army in a social media clip posted by his then-deputy director of communications Margo Martin last August, raging on Instagram: Oh....Dont even think about using my music you fascists. Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your 5 thousand others.) Have a great day at work today Margo Martin. And as long as Im here, a double f*** you DonOLD for insulting our nations veterans at Arlington you scum. You should lose every military familys vote immediately from that if ANYTHING makes sense anymore. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Hunter Biden has refused to apologize to First Lady Melania Trump after she threatened him with legal action for over $1bn in damages if he failed to retract comments he made linking her to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. F*** that! Thats not going to happen, Biden laughed during a new interview with British journalist Andrew Callaghan, the same person he was speaking to in July when he made the allegations that apparently enraged the first lady. First of all is that, what I said was what I have heard and seen reported and written, primarily from Michael Wolff but also dating back all the way to 2019 when The New York Times I think Annie Carney and and Maggie Haberman reported that sources said that Jeffrey Epstein claimed to be the person to introduce Donald Trump to Melania at that time, Biden continued. open image in gallery Hunter Biden sat for another interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan to address the legal threats made by First Lady Melania Trump ( YouTube/Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan ) But the primary source was the interviews that Michael Wolff has been conducting, in which he has actually tapes of, I think, hours and hours and hours of interviews with Jeffrey Epstein directly. So, you know, fact of the matter is that, you know, I dont think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a designed distraction because its not about who introduced whom to who. I dont know how that in any way rises to the level of defamation to begin with. Lawyers for Trump had objected to two statements made by Biden, the son of former president Joe Biden, in a YouTube interview he gave to Callaghan last month. In the sprawling discussion in question, Biden alleged that it was Epstein who first introduced Melania to Trump in the late 1990s, when she was a fashion model and he a luxury property magnate with no known political aspirations. The statements are false, defamatory, and extremely salacious, Melania Trumps lawyer, Alejandro Brito, wrote in the letter to Biden. His remarks were widely disseminated on social media and reported by media outlets around the world, causing the first lady to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm, Brito wrote. The letter demands that Biden walk back the claim and apologise or face legal action for over $1bn in damages. open image in gallery Hunter Biden and First Lady Melania Trump, who are at odds after the former alleged the latter had been introduced to her husband, President Donald Trump, by the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein ( AFP/Getty ) It also accuses the former presidents son of having a vast history of trading on the names of others and repeating the claim to draw attention to yourself. Biden made the Epstein comments while also lashing out at elites like the Hollywood actor George Clooney and others in the Democratic Party whom, he said, had undermined his father before he dropped out of last years presidential campaign, also revealing that Biden Sr had been on Ambien when he suffered a disastrous debate defeat to Trump in Atlanta last June. Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep, Biden said in one of the comments Trump disputes. As he suggested again on Thursday, Biden attributed the claim at the time to Wolff, whom the president disparaged in June as a third-rate reporter and accused of making up stories to sell books. The first ladys threats echo a favored strategy of her husband, who has aggressively used litigation to go after critics. Public figures like the Trumps face a high bar to succeed in a defamation lawsuit. open image in gallery Hunter Biden sitting for his original with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan in July ( Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan/YouTube ) The president and first lady have long said they were introduced by Paolo Zampolli, a modeling agent, at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. The letter to Hunter Biden is dated August 6 and was first reported on Wednesday by Fox News Digital. Abbe Lowell, a lawyer who has represented Biden in his criminal cases and to whom Brito's letter is addressed, did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Wednesday. President Trump continues to face questions about his past friendship with Epstein, but has not been accused of any wrongdoing and is currently suing The Wall Street Journal for reporting that he once sent the sex offender a bawdy doodle for his birthday. The uproar over the disgraced financier has raged ever since the Justice Department and FBI ruled in early July that he left behind no client list and died by suicide in August 2019, a verdict that enraged the presidents supporters, who continue to demand answers and allege a cover-up to protect influential people. It has been reported that the president was briefed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who stated that his name appears in the governments files on Epstein, but that does not imply misconduct. Trump is known to have become increasingly frustrated at the storys continued dominance of the news agenda over the past six weeks and has even rebuked members of his conservative coalition for obsessing over it. Additional reporting by agencies. "If I look at how the infrastructure, the economy, the people have changed in 20 years, it's really incredible," said Andries Meijerink, a renowned Dutch expert in a recent interview with Xinhua. #GLOBALink Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A federal judge in New York ripped into the Trump administrations arbitrary practice of arresting immigrants as they leave their immigration court hearings, creating what he calls a game of detention roulette that violates due process. District Judge Dale Ho, who was appointed by Joe Biden, said the government violated the constitutional rights of a 27-year-old asylum seeker from Paraguay who was arrested moments after attending a court hearing in Manhattan last month. And he appears to be far from alone, Ho wrote. His counsel asserts that his treatment is part of a nationwide campaign, as set forth in an ICE internal memo that has been described in various media reports, which suggests that millions could be swept up in the same way, the judge added. ICE cannot confirm or deny the existence of such a new policy, yet the governments position states that federal law enforcement must categorically detain all undocumented immigrants who they believe have entered the United States unlawfully no matter how long they have been residing in the country since, according to Ho. But treating attendance in immigration court as a game of detention roulette is not consistent with the constitutional guarantee of due process, he continued. open image in gallery Federal agents patrol the halls of a federal building that houses immigration court in Manhattan, which a judge blasted as turning court hearings into a game of deportation roulette ( Getty Images ) Thousands across the country have faced arrest after showing up for their court-ordered ICE check-ins or routine immigration court hearings as part of Donald Trumps 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. That strategy has generated scenes of masked federal agents patrolling courthouse hallways and hauling away immigrants the moment they leave their hearings. Half of all immigration court arrests nationwide were in New York City in late May and early June, according to an analysis published by news outlet The City. Between May 26 and June 8, federal officers arrested 134 people in lower Manhattan immigration courthouse buildings, accounting for nearly a third of all immigration arrests in New York City in that period, the outlet found. Those arrests spiked alongside arrests at mandatory ICE check-ins with the agency, including appointments across the street from downtown Manhattans 26 Federal Plaza, which also houses a makeshift detention facility at the center of a lawsuit alleging unsanitary conditions and a lack of access to medicine and legal counsel. open image in gallery Courthouse arrests in New York by masked agents have surged since Trump took office after the administration instructed immigration court judges to quickly dismiss cases, making immigrants appearing for their regularly scheduled hearings vulnerable for removal from the country ( Getty Images ) The administrations actions to strip legal status from immigrants who are in the middle of their immigration cases and following the law have radically expanded a pool of undocumented people to add to the presidents demands for mass deportations. Policy - that has since been abandoned by the Trump administration - sought to prevent courthouse arrests from creating a palpable fear that disincentivizes people from appearing for their hearings, according to a lawsuit filed by civil rights groups against the practice. But in the first few days of the Trump administration, defendants repealed those policies, exposing individuals who properly appear for their hearings, including to seek asylum and other relief, to the imminent threat of arrest and indefinite detention, the lawsuit stated. The 12 plaintiffs most of whom are LGBT+ or victims of female genital mutilation who fear persecution and violence in their home countries sought protection in the United States only to have their cases abruptly dismissed, with masked federal officers waiting to arrest them on the other side of the courtroom doors. Many of the plaintiffs had lived in the United States without issue for years before their arrest, when they were abruptly separated from their families, including U.S. citizens, without notice, according to the lawsuit. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A CNN pundit and fitness guru has been accused of historical revisionism by Rep. Ritchie Torres after she defended President Trumps latest review of the Smithsonian. Hes not whitewashing slavery, and you cannot tie Imperialism and racism and slavery to just one race, which is pretty much what every single exhibit does, Jillian Michaels told host Abby Phillip during CNN Newsnight on Wednesday. Earlier this week, Trump announced plans to conduct a thorough review of the institution to ensure its exhibitions reflected the administrations view of American history. When Michaels began to speak about slavery being thousands of years old, Torres chimed in, saying: This is extraordinary historical revisionism. Phillip then challenged Michaels, saying, Im surprised that youre trying to litigate who was the beneficiary of slavery and who was not. In the context of American history, what are you saying is incorrect by saying that it was white people oppressing Black people? she added. Michaels, who formerly appeared on The Biggest Loser, answered, Im not. What is you cannotevery single is like oh no no no, this is all because white people bad, and thats just not the truth. For example, every single exhibit, I have a list of every single one, people migrated from Cuba because white people bad. Not because of Castro, she adds. open image in gallery Michaels, who formerly appeared on the TV weight loss show The Biggest Loser , defended Trumps cultural interference with the Smithsonian ( CNN ) Michaels then took to X hours after the fiery discussion to defend her position. Referencing a Smithsonian exhibit that cites the migration of millions of Latinos and Caribbean people to the U.S. in the 1900s, she writes, Trump is not trying to erase slavery by suggesting some of the installations there are inaccurate and bias. The exhibit highlights the plight of several Latin American nations where the U.S. government intervened in governments to stop the spread of Communism. The United States backed numerous dictators, including Cubas Fulgencio Batista and the Dominican Republics Rafael Trujillo. Cuban, Dominican and many other Latino communities still feel the effects of war and revolution. Their stories reveal the human cost of immigration and the contradictions of U.S. foreign policy, the exhibit reads. I oppose interventionist U.S. foreign policy, but this is not an honest or complete portrayal of what happened in Cuba. Period, Michaels added. In recent years, Michaels has refashioned herself into a conservative podcaster and pundit, and has even landed a new media seat in White House press briefings. After expressing support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr's presidential campaign and the MAHA movement, she went on to vote for Trump in what was a reversal of her previous stance on his first administration. Speaking to GO Magazine in 2016, she didnt trust anything thats coming out of [Trumps] mouth. open image in gallery The 'impeachment' section of the National Museum of American History's exhibit on the American presidency, pictured on Aug 1 after the initial sign on Trump's impeachment was removed ( REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon ) Trumps cultural review comes ahead of the nations 250th birthday a move that falls in line with other recent takeovers of cultural institutions. Earlier this month, the commander-in-chief ordered the Smithsonian to erase all references to his impeachment in the exhibit A Glorious Burden. Staff have now restored the references, despite the presidents precise demands, according to USA Today. On the previous nights installment of Newsnight, Scott Jennings also defended Trumps cultural review by saying that those opposing it were the same people on the left who incited the mass removal of historical statues tied to slavery. "Yeah, the last time we sort of talked about the changing of historical exhibits was when all these angry mobs all over the country tore down historical statues all over the place, and the people who seemed to be angriest about the Smithsonian review were cheering that on," Jennings argued. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Vowing to meet fire with fire, California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday announced that his state would hold a ballot initiative seeking to redraw its congressional districts as a countermeasure to the gerrymandering push by President Donald Trump and Republicans in Texas ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Newsom made the announcement in a speech laden with anti-Trump rhetoric as Border Patrol agents swarmed outside the Los Angeles auditorium. The Democrat, who has made major steps toward running for president in 2028, said that he would request the state legislature take up the bill, which would require two-thirds of the vote to pass and reach a ballot. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire, and we've got to be held to a higher level accountability, Newsom said. Newsoms announcement at the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo comes after Trump pressed the Texas legislature to reconvene in a rare mid-Census redraw of its congressional districts to give Republicans five more seats. In response, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, convened a special session of the legislature, which usually only meets for half of the year. California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a news conference Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) ( AP ) In response, many Democrats in the Texas state House of Representatives decamped to blue states including Illinois, California and New York to prevent a quorum from being reached and a vote being held on the redraw. Typically, states redo their maps every 10 years in response to the Census data. But Republicans want to shore up their slim House majority as they continue to lag in the generic ballot ahead of the 2026 midterm election. Californias constitution requires that redistricting be done by a nonpartisan commission after a 2010 by ballot initiative. But Newsom said that Trumps moves forced Democrats to change. We're doing it mindful that we want to model better behavior, as we've been doing for 15 years in the State of California with our independent redistricting commission, he said. But we cannot unilaterally disarm. On Thursday, Texas Democrats said that they would return once the session ends and once California unveils its new map. Newsom sought to draw a distinction between his efforts to redraw the map and those Texas Republicans. We didn't receive a phone call from the president united states to then quietly go in the back room and start drawing maps and legislatively try to jam them through against the people, Newsom said. We're doing precisely the opposite. We're working through a very transparent, temporary and public process. The move would mean that if Texas moves forward with its map, California could redraw its congressional map to give House Democrats extra seats from the Golden State. But a ballot measure would be a herculean effort, wherein not only two-thirds of the legislature approve of it, but also that voters turn out for the vote to allow that for the state to redraw the map. We will affirm our commitment to the State Independent Redistricting after the 2030 census, Newsom said. But we're asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028 and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to what's happening in Texas, to respond what Trump is trying to excite and we'll do so in a way that also affirms our desire as a state to level the playing field all across the United States. Newsoms fight represents just the latest sticking point he has had with Trump since the president returned to office in January. Trump said when he first visited California after the wildfires ravaged the Los Angeles area that he demanded the state adopt a voter ID law to receive federal dollars. Then in June, Trump dispatched Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to Los Angeles, specifically at places like Home Depot, as part of his plans for mass deportation. In response to protests that at times led to the destruction of property, Trump sent the National Guard to Los Angeles without Newsoms consent. Wake up America, he said. This is serious moment. Wake up to what's going on. Wake up to the fear, the anxiety. Wake up to what's happening. Not just here in Los Angeles, where we saw our streets militarized. Newsom has also taken steps to show he is interested in running for president, including visiting South Carolina, which holds the one first presidential primaries for the Democratic Party. He also served as a major attack dog for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for most of the 2024 election. The effort also reflects a larger change in attitude among Democratic voters, who want to see their leaders take a less conciliatory approach toward Republicans and focus more on attacking them. Here we are in plain sight before one vote is cast in the 2026 midterm election and here he is once again trying to rig the system, Newsom said. He does not play by a different set of rules, he does not believe in the rules. And as a consequence, we need to disabuse ourselves of the way that things have been done. But Texas is not the only Republican state to try and change their maps to squeeze out Republican seats. Vice President JD Vance visited Indiana to try and convince them to change their maps. Other potential states include Ohio, Missouri and Florida. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Trumps Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has failed to divest his financial holdings, the governments ethics watchdog has warned Bessent, a former hedge fund manager, has a net worth of around $600 million, according to Forbes. The United States Office of Government Ethics recently sent a letter to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Michael Crapo, informing him that Bessent has yet to fully divest his financial assets, The New York Times, which reviewed the letter, reported. In the letter, Dale Christopher, the watchdogs deputy director of compliance, told Crapo his office will continue to monitor the status of the secretarys compliance with his ethics agreement, which required him to divest his assets. open image in gallery Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has failed to divest his financial holdings, setting off a warning from the governments ethics watchdog ( Win McNamee/Getty Images ) Christopher said his office has also advised Treasurys ethics officials to emphasize to the secretary 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 NYT reported Bessents biggest potential conflict of interest is his soybean and corn farmlands in North Dakota, which are worth an estimated $25 million. After the letter was sent, Treasury ethics officials said Bessent indicated he would comply with the agreement by December 15, according to a follow-up letter Christopher sent to the Senate Finance Committee Wednesday. The ethics officials explain that the assets are illiquid and are not readily marketable, Christopher wrote. He continued: They add that excluding the farmlands, the assets also have significant restrictions on who can acquire them and that the secretary has been working to divest them since his confirmation in January 2025. open image in gallery President Donald Trump's Treasury Secretary is a former hedge fund manager and reportedly has a net worth of around $600 million ( Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images ) Bessent said in a statement published by the NYT that he just needs to divest four percent of the assets he is required to get rid of. He emphasized that hes not trying to personally profit from his position: The honor of serving the American people under President Trump cant be ascribed a dollar value. The Independent has reached out to the Treasury Department for comment. Bessent will continue to abstain from particular matters affecting his assets, Treasury officials told the watchdog. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump 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. 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. open image in gallery 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. 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. open image in gallery 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. 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. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that the Trump administration may continue withholding billions of dollars in foreign aid, dealing a major blow to relief groups and potentially teeing up a critical Supreme Court test to the presidents attempts to control funding approved by Congress. The 2-1 decision from the three-judge panel which includes judges appointed by Trump and George H.W. Bush overturned a district courts injunction that ordered the administration to keep providing money for food, medicine and other aid that the president blocked on his first day in office. Aid groups that sued the administration to unfreeze foreign assistance did not have standing to bring the case, and the district court erred in granting that relief because the grantees lack a cause of action to press their claims, the majority judges wrote on Wednesday. In a dissent, the only Democrat-appointed judge on the panel accused the court of supporting the presidents unlawful behavior. At bottom, the courts acquiescence in and facilitation of the Executives 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, wrote Judge Florence Y. Pan, who was appointed by Joe Biden. open image in gallery A 2-1 vote from a panel of federal appeals court judges will pave the way for the Trump administration to continue blocking billions of dollars in foreign assistance approved by Congress ( AFP via Getty Images ) The administration immediately suspended and subsequently terminated thousands of foreign-aid grants, with catastrophic consequences for the grantees and the people that they serve, Pan wrote. Plaintiffs in the case will now ask for the full 15-member appeals court panel to review the case, which could then land at the Supreme Court. Todays decision is a significant setback for the rule of law and risks further erosion of basic separation of powers principles, Public Citizen Litigation Group attorney Lauren Bateman said in a statement. In the meantime, countless people will suffer disease, starvation and death. A recent study in The Lancet estimated Trumps cuts could contribute to the deaths of 14 million million people by 2030, including as many as 5 million children under the age of 5. open image in gallery A breast feeding mother in Uganda collects nutritional food for her children through the World Food Program, which faces a projected 40 percent reduction in funding for 2025 after Trumps cuts, leaving an estimated 58 million people around the world vulnerable to starvation ( Getty Images ) Hours after entering office, Trump issued an executive order imposing a 90-day freeze on all foreign aid distribution, then gutted the U.S. Agency for International Development and placed virtually all of its staff on administrative leave while folding what remains of the dismantled agency into Marco Rubios State Department. The agency was one of the largest aid programs in the world, providing essential humanitarian relief in dozens of life-saving missions in more than 100 countries. Elon Musk, who assumed control of the so-called Department of Government Efficiency with a mandate to slash budgets across the federal government, said he wanted the agency to be fed into a wood chipper. Two nonprofit groups that receive federal funding AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition and Journalism Development Network sued the Trump administration over the funding freeze, and a Biden-appointed judge in Washington, D.C. ordered the government to pay out nearly $2 billion in outstanding aid to U.S. partners. Trump then appealed to the Supreme Court, which froze the deadline from Judge Judge Amir Ali but left open the door for Ali to order the administration to resume funding. He then issued another injunction, and ordered the administration to pay out billions of dollars for roughly 10,000 aid contracts that were canceled. But the appeals court panel on Wednesday decided that only the Government Accountability Office can sue over alleged violations of the Impoundment Control Act. The White House Office of Management and Budget called the ruling a BIG WIN! 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 said on X. Todays decision puts a stop to that, affirming the President's ability to spend responsibly to enact his America First agenda. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Alaskan city of Anchorage, surrounded by dramatic peaks, will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. As all eyes will be on the southern-central city Friday afternoon as the two men are set to meet for a one-on-one meeting. A press conference could happen after, but it's unclear if both world leaders will be involved. The run-up to the summit sparked guesses about which world city would host the meeting, until Alaska was announced as host for the summit aimed at ending the war with Ukraine. Now, Alaska officials say its an opportunity for Anchorage to show the world just how important it is. Alaska is the crossroads of the world, Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance said this week. We are a strategic global location in so many ways. For our closeness to the Arctic, for our military presence, we have like 25,000 active duty personnel here in Alaska, for trade, for cargo, our cargo airport is one of the busiest in the world. As far as what this means for Alaska, what it means for Anchorage, its an opportunity to highlight our city, and to show the world how important we are, LaFrance added. Alaskas GOP Senator, Lisa Murkowski, said it was another opportunity for the Arctic to serve as a venue that brings together world leaders to forge meaningful agreements, though added she was deeply wary of Putin and his regime. open image in gallery The Alaskan city of Anchorage will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin who are set for a one-on-one meeting Friday afternoon. ( Getty/iStock ) Anchorage is the Last Frontier states biggest small town, and with a population of around 300,000, and it is Alaskas most populous city, according to the National Park Service. During the summer, residents experience about 19 hours of sunlight a day as the sun barely dips below the horizon. In the winter, when thick snow caps the mountains surrounding the city, its only daylight for around 5 hours. Presidents have met with world leaders and notable figures at the base in Anchorage in recent history, partly due to its convenient location to refuel. Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. Reagan visited Alaska the following year to meet with Pope John Paul II in the city of Fairbanks. In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Japanese Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. The meeting was extremely brief, with the monarch touching down at 10 p.m. local time and departing for his final destination of Europe by 11.40 p.m., according to the Richard Nixon Foundation. Former President Barack Obama also dropped by Anchorage in 2015 on a three-day trip to highlight the impacts of climate change in the region. open image in gallery Trump pictured at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in 2019. The president will touch down in Anchorage for the summit with Putin. ( AP ) open image in gallery Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. ( Reagan Library ) open image in gallery In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. ( Richard Nixon Foundation ) Anchorages military base was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height 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. As preparations for the Anchorage summit continue, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated that the meeting will be a one-on-one between Trump and Putin, with translators present, and that sensitive matters will be discussed. Both leaders will take part in a news conference once the summit is concluded, he added, as well as wider talks with their delegations and a working breakfast. Trump warned that Russia would face very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire but hinted that a follow-up meeting could be swiftly arranged if Fridays summit proves a success. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald 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. open image in gallery 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. 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 open image in gallery 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. 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." open image in gallery 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. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ahead of Donald Trumps summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, retired U.S. Army Gen. Wesley Clark has said it is vital for the president to convince the Russian leader that he cannot win the war in Ukraine. Speaking on The Record with Greta Van Susteren on Newsmax on Wednesday, Clark, a former Democratic presidential candidate in 2004, warned that Putin would not respond to conventional diplomatic threats. Weve made so many threats to Russia over the last six months about consequences, and they mostly get postponed, Clark said. open image in gallery Former presidential candidate and retired U.S. Army general Wesley Clark discusses the Ukraine war on Newsmax on Wednesday August 13 2025 ( Newsmax ) And so, I dont know I hope the consequences will be a restart of U.S. military assistance from the Trump administration to Ukraine. Because really, when you get right down to it, I think the only way youre going to really halt President Putins territorial ambitions is to convince him he cannot win. He continued: Administration after administration has tried sanctions. Obama tried it. Biden tried it. It hasnt stopped anything and makes it more difficult. The Russians learn to live with it. And so putting sanctions on again it sounds rough and tough. It avoids the threat of use of force, but ultimately it doesnt accomplish much. As preparations for the Anchorage summit continue, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov has stated that the meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson will be a one-on-one between Trump and Putin, with translators present, and that sensitive matters will be discussed. In addition to the prospect of ending the war, which has raged since February 2022, enhanced economic cooperation and trade between the U.S. and Russia will also be on the table, Ushakov said. Both leaders will take part in a news conference once the summit is concluded, he added, as well as wider talks with their delegations and a working breakfast. open image in gallery Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday for a hugely consequential summit ( AFP/Getty ) On Wednesday, Trump attended a virtual meeting with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, to discuss the goals of the summit and establish red lines that cannot be crossed. According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the American emphatically ruled out the prospect of Kyiv being invited to join NATO, a step that Moscow would have interpreted as a deliberate provocation. Trump himself warned afterwards that Russia would face very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire but hinted that a follow-up meeting could be swiftly arranged if Fridays summit proves a success. Zelensky has since joined British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in London, with the latter reiterating: 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. Putin said on Thursday that Washington was making sincere efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine and suggested that a new deal on nuclear arms control between Moscow and Washington could be on the cards. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice As he deployed the National Guard and surged federal law enforcement agencies into the nations capital, President Donald Trump gave local police in Washington, D.C. permission to retaliate against a population under federal occupation. Trump, seizing on images of a beaten former Department of Government Efficiency staffer to justify his takeover, announced a crime emergency to put the Metropolitan Police Department under the administrations control. See, they fight back until you knock the hell out of them, because its the only language they understand, Trump said from the White House on August 11. You spit and we hit, the president said. And theyre standing there and people are spitting in their face and theyre not allowed to do anything. But now they are allowed to do whatever the hell they want. Civil rights groups and legal experts fear the presidents remarks will embolden police officers to abandon constitutional guardrails and signal to Americans that those protections are meaningless. open image in gallery Trump said Metropolitan Police Department officers can do whatever the hell they want, alarming civil rights groups and DC residents bracing for a federal takeover ( Getty ) Its very scary that the president felt the license to say this, said Insha Rahman, vice president of advocacy and partnerships at the Vera Institute of Justice and the director of Vera Action. His remarks appear to endorse police running roughshod over constitutional rights and due process protections, she told The Independent. That language is extremely dangerous and shows a blatant disregard to the constitutional mandates that the president and every government entity is bound to, according to Kristin Henning, Georgetown Law professor and director of the Juvenile Justice Clinic and Initiative. No, police cannot do whatever the hell they want, Rahman added. But officers will feel emboldened to do things that we know are not only legally unsound and questionable but also unpopular like sweep away people and forcibly move people who are homeless, or tell people that they cant be in certain public places. Civil rights groups fear the administration is using the citys police force for a political power grab, while putting American troops on the ground as an occupying force thats not trained to perform basic law enforcement tasks like responding to 911 calls. Instead, D.C. has become political theater using blatantly phony justification for abuse of emergency powers, according to Monica Hopkins, executive director of the ACLU of the District of Columbia. Trump is using the word emergency as a blank check for asserting federal control whenever it suits his agenda abusing emergency powers while militarizing our communities and endangering the very people he is sworn to protect, according to Mike Zamore, national director of policy and government affairs at the ACLU. The Independent has requested comment from the Metropolitan Police Department. open image in gallery Trump and DCs US Attorney Jeanine Pirro lashed out at teenagers in the nations capital while calling for heavy-handed police tactics in other Democratic-led cities with leadership and large minority populations ( AFP/Getty ) Trump has a vivid history of dogwhistle calls to action. Proud Boys were inspired by Trumps call to stand back and stand by. His call for a big protest that will be wild fueled a mob of his own supporters on January 6, 2021, when he encouraged a crowd to fight like hell before they stormed the Capitol. He also routinely threatens heavy-handed tactics in other Democratic-majority cities. At his White House press conference this week, he singled out Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Oakland all of which have Black mayors and large minority populations that have overwhelmingly voted against him. In his remarks, Trump suggested teenagers were randomly attacking citizens and called for trying children as young as 14 as adults to lock them up for a long time. Jeanine Pirro the former Fox News personality recently confirmed as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. raged against young punks and demanded laws be changed to send teenagers to adult prisons. Those threats are counterproductive and ineffective, according to Henning, author of The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth, which draws on her experience representing young Black people in Washingtons juvenile courts. They dont use these words, but they are definitely blaming all Black kids in the city for these problems, Henning said. [Residents] are living with a state of fear that has been concocted, and thats all a part of a larger strategy. Its not even that deeply veiled, because its been done over and over again. The Independent has requested comment from the White House. Black and Latino youth are facing extraordinary psychological trauma in contact with police, with reported high rates of fear, anxiety, depression and hopelessness, according to Henning. When they go out on the streets and they encounter police, they see these federal agents, the anxiety is real, and the reaction is an adolescent response, she said. They might assert their First Amendment right to say, I don't want your presence. All of the things that teenagers do They can go from zero to 100 in an instant. open image in gallery A warning issued by DC police advises residents of an extended juvenile curfew zone after the Trump administration federalized local cops and deployed National Guard troops ( Getty ) Thousands of people flooded streets across the country throughout the summer of 2020 for daily demonstrations against police brutality and racism, including in the streets of Washington, D.C. Cant you just shoot them? Trump said at the time, according to his former Defense Secretary Mark Esper. Just shoot them in the legs or something? Trump also demanded law enforcement officers crack skulls and beat the f*** out of protesters, according to the book Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost by The Wall Street Journals Michael Bender. In his second administration, Trump is no longer moored by a handful of advisers who could curb his impulses. He was surrounded by the nations top law enforcement officials as he announced liberation day for D.C. this week. Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which grants the federal government authority to run the locally controlled police department. He needs congressional authority to extend that control beyond 30 days. On August 13, Trump said he wants long-term extensions of his federal occupation. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, he said. Trump also called for Congress to pass a crime bill thats going to initially pertain to D.C. but serve as a very positive example for other cities. open image in gallery Homeland Security and US Park Police officers detain a person on the National Mall on August 12 ( Getty ) Despite the administrations claims that crime is out of control in D.C., the data shows the opposite: 2024 saw the lowest violent crime rates in the capital in more than 30 years, while reports of violent crime within the first seven months of 2025 have plunged 26 percent from last year. Those rates mirror national downward trends, according to FBI crime data released during Trumps administration. Trump has a long history of weaponizing fear about crime, according to Rahman, highlighting the presidents campaign rhetoric of American cities under siege and an invasion at the U.S.-Mexico border. People are supportive of police, but they want police to focus on responding to the most serious cases, being responsive, and investigating and solving serious crime, she said. What they do not want that we have had a long history of seeing in this country is police overreach. Henning fears that the citys Metropolitan Police Department is under undue pressure to boost arrests and put numbers on the board, she told The Independent. That pressure is going to be there, whether they admit it or not, she said. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In May 2021, an intoxicated Oklahoma woman called an Uber to take her home from her nieces engagement party. Although the ride should have only taken 23 minutes, when she woke up hours later, she wasnt home, but seated behind the steering wheel of a strange car, with her underwear in her purse and her jeans on inside out. Her mind blurred with confusion and her body covered in bruises, she went to the hospital and was given a sexual assault examination, according to a civil lawsuit against Uber and the driver, seen by The Independent. Authorities charged the driver, Timothy Alexander Greene, in June 2021. A jury convicted him of sexual battery two years later, court records show, and he is serving a 10-year prison sentence. The womans horrifying assault in a ride-share vehicle is far from an isolated incident. Especially with solo female passengers, this is a huge problem in the industry, Jim Mitchell, one of the attorneys representing the Oklahoma woman, told The Independent. open image in gallery Uber received reports of sexual misconduct on an average of every eight minutes, documents first reported by The New York Times revealed this week. ( Getty Images ) Safety is a core value at Uber, and we have invested billions of dollars and countless hours to reduce safety incidents during trips, particularly when it comes to sexual misconduct and assault, the company said in a statement on its website. Across the country, passengers have shared claims of misconduct that took place in Uber rides. In Utah, a woman on her way home was subjected to unwanted touching. In California, a driver touched himself as a female passenger vomited. In Texas, a 20-minute ride turned into a five-hour ordeal and an alleged rape at a motel. While Uber touts its safety record and the company has implemented a string of features to protect passengers and drivers since its inception allegations detailed in thousands of legal cases, internal company documents, and stories on social media underscore that staying safe in ride-shares is still an issue. Uber received reports of sexual misconduct every eight minutes from U.S. riders from 2017 through 2022, documents first reported by The New York Times revealed this week. Over six years, that totaled more than 400,000 Uber trips in the U.S. resulting in reports of sexual assault and sexual misconduct, according to the report. Ubers 2022 safety report disclosed 12,522 sexual assault and misconduct reports over the same time period. The tech company addressed the large discrepancy in a statement posted on the company website Wednesday after the Times published its report. The vast majority of the hundreds of thousands of misconduct reports were less serious and non-physical in nature, like flirting or staring, Hannah Nilles, Ubers Head of Safety for the Americas, wrote. Most of these 400,000-plus reports have not been subjected to a rigorous process that vets allegations and weeds out false reports made with the goal of getting a refund, Nilles continued. Uber claims that 99.99 percent of trips end without any issue. Roughly 0.006 percent of the 6.3 billion trips in the U.S. in the six-year span ended with a sexual misconduct or assault report, according to Nilles. The most serious reports accounted for 0.00002 percent or 1 in 5 million trips she said. The vast majority of sexual misconduct reports between 2017-2022 were made by female drivers or riders. Women represented 89 percent of survivors, according to the companys 2022 safety report.Uber has not released a safety report since.The Independent has asked the company why this is the case. Uber identified other patterns in the sexual assault report data, according to internal documents seen by the Times. Incidents tended to occur late at night and on weekends with pick-ups near bars. The company has implemented a series of safety measures over the past several years. RideCheck uses GPS tracking to detect whether the ride stays on course, pinging drivers and riders to ensure theyre safe. Theres also a Follow My Ride feature that allows riders to share their trips so loved ones can track. But Uber acknowledges the features limitations. No single safety feature or policy is going to prevent unpredictable incidents from happening on Uber, or in our world, Nilles told the Times. open image in gallery The ride-share giant has implemented a number of safety features over the last several years, like RideCheck, which uses GPS tracking to ensure the trip stays on course ( AFP via Getty Images ) In one case, what should have been a 20-minute trip became a harrowing five-hour ordeal that culminated in an alleged rape,The Times reported. A woman in Houston requested an Uber in December 2023. The driver picked her up at 8.53 p.m. at an apartment complex to take her to a house 22 minutes away. But the driver took a detour to a gas station around 9.10 p.m., the records show. Thats when Uber sent a ping to check in on the woman, who didnt respond. By 9.29 p.m., the car continued to veer off the requested course and instead stopped at a motel. The company notified the woman again, and again, it went unanswered. Minutes later, Uber tried to get in touch with her with a robocall, to which she also didnt respond. The driver didnt mark the trip as complete until 2.01 a.m. Three hours later, the woman called Uber, claiming that she had been intoxicated and woke up in a motel with the driver, who had raped her, the Times reported. Uber banned the driver immediately after the alleged attack. An investigation into him the following month revealed a a concerning fact pattern that included two previous accusations of sexual misconduct for inappropriate comments. The three missed contact attempts served as a potential signal that something could have gone wrong in the trip, the documents said. The report asked: Are our actions (or lack of actions) defensible? In Oklahoma, when charges were brought against Uber driver Greene in 2021, the State Bureau of Investigation warned that there may be other survivors. Authorities had reason to believe other women could also have been assaulted by the ride-share driver. It appears that investigators found another survivor. Last June, Oklahoma County District Attorneys Office brought another charge against Greene, accusing him of raping a woman in July 2019 while he was driving for Lyft, court records show. He has pleaded not guilty and is next due in court on August 20. An attorney for Greene declined to comment on the ongoing cases. The woman filed a police report and contacted Lyft to report the alleged incident. Greene was booted from the platform, the 2021 civil suit says. Greene then allegedly engaged in platform hopping, jumping over to Uber after being deactivated from Lyft, said Mitchell, who also represents the woman. open image in gallery Timothy Greene, an Oklahoma Uber driver, who was convicted of sexual assaulting a passenger ( OSBI ) In March 2021, Lyft and Uber launched the Industry Sharing Safety Program which allows both companies to share information about drivers who were banned from the others platform for sexual or physical assaults. "Any act of violence or assault has no place in the Lyft community or our society. When an incident is reported to us, our trained team takes immediate action to investigate, provides our support to the victim, and works with law enforcement on any investigation. With regard to the Oklahoma case, we were made aware of the allegations against the driver in June of 2019, and we immediately and permanently banned him from ever driving on the Lyft platform again. At that time we also provided support to the rider, and assisted law enforcement with their investigation, a Lyft spokesperson told The Independent. Since Uber issued its first safety report for 2017 and 2018, the rate of reported sexual assaults has declined 44 percent, according to the companys latest report. Meanwhile, hundreds of plaintiffs across 29 states have joined a class action lawsuit against the ride-share giant. More than 2,435 cases are pending in the multidistrict litigation against Uber for activity described in the Times article, lead attorneys Rachel Abrams, Sarah London, and Roopal Luhana told The Independent in a statement. There are an additional 621 cases brought in California under a related proceeding. We look forward to litigating these claims in Court on behalf of the brave survivors who have come forward to seek justice from a company that has put profits over safety, the attorneys said. The cases are scheduled to go to trial in December. Lyft, Ubers ride-share rival, also disclosed thousands of sexual misconduct reports from 2017 through 2022. In that period, there were 6,809 reports, accounting for 0.0002 percent of rides, according to Lyfts 2022 safety report. On social media, women have also been sharing their disturbing stories. One TikToker, xknowlsallpodcast, alleged she was sexually assaulted in 2016 in San Francisco. Intoxicated, she got in an Uber and immediately started feeling sick. She threw up a little on the cars central console. The driver then stopped the car and asked what she was doing, she recalled. The rider then opened the door and continued to vomit. The driver walked around to her side of the car. He then took off his pants and started touching himself, she said. She then ran out of the car, hid behind a nearby house, and called another Uber. Later, she looked at her Uber receipts to find that her second ride picked her up far from where she wanted to go. She had ordered a car to take her from a holiday party in downtown San Francisco to her home in the northern part of the city. Instead, she said, her receipts showed that she was south, near the airport. When I look at my Uber receipts, the first car that was supposed to take me downtown to my house was cancelled, the woman said in the video. My theory is this driver saw me, he saw how intoxicated I was, he saw an opportunity to hurt me, and he cancelled the ride when I got into his car. When she reported the incident to Uber, the company told her that she got into the wrong car that night, the TikToker recalled. She also said that this was a possibility. Since then, she said she shares her rides with her friends and never, ever, ever get into a car by myself intoxicated like that.The Independent has asked Uber about the alleged incident but received no response. open image in gallery NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 14: A woman walks by a hired SUV as it waits for a client in Manhattan a day after it was announced that Uber co-founder Travis Kalanick will take a leave of absence as chief executive on June 14, 2017 in New York City. The move came after former attorney general Eric H. Holder Jr. and his law firm, Covington & Burling, released 13 pages of recommendations compiled as part of an investigation of sexual harassment at the ride-hailing car service. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images) ( Getty Images ) In Utah, a Facebook user said she called an Uber to take her home in August 2021. The driver reached into the backseat where she was sitting and started repeatedly touching and rubbing her leg, despite her pleas for him to stop, she wrote in a social media post. When she tried to exit, he locked the door, she claimed. She eventually got to her destination after telling him that family members were expecting her. The woman contacted Uber about the incident, she said, and urged other riders to share their locations when using a ride-share. The driver was banned from the platform, Uber told The Independent. Safety issues extend to female drivers as well. And due to the media attention around ride-share assaults, attracting female drivers has become a challenge. Safety has ranked as one of the top reasons for prospective female drivers to not join Uber, and for current female drivers to not drive during certain hours of the day, an internal document, seen by the Times, stated. Uber rolled out an experimental program that matched female riders with female drivers in Saudi Arabia in 2019 and found an overwhelmingly positive response, the company said. It has since replicated the feature in 40 countries. The company had planned to launch the same program in the U.S. in November, but Donald Trumps election victory prompted executives to rethink the timing of the rollout. This is not the right environment to launch, and we want to take a beat to assess our timing, an internal document, reported by The Times, stated. The Independent has asked Uber about the decision. Last month, Uber announced that the Women Preferences option for riders and drivers will become available in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit starting in the next few weeks. Lyft rolled out a similar program Women + Connect last September, giving women and nonbinary riders and drivers the option to be paired. The company has since expanded the program nationwide. Editor's Note: This article's headline has been changed from 'Attacks every 8 minutes' to 'Incidents every 8 minutes'. This reflects that Uber received reports of sexual misconduct every eight minutes from U.S. riders from 2017 through 2022. This statistic included incidents of sexual assault and sexual misconduct, and a wide range of behaviorssuch as staring/leering, inappropriate comments, and gestures -- and not only physical attacks. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Agriculture Department spent thousands of dollars on giant banners featuring President Donald Trumps face as it was cutting aid to schools and food banks, a new report has revealed. Since Trump took office, his administration has been making cuts to government spending that it sees as wasteful. In March, the USDA slashed two pandemic-era federal programs that provided roughly $1 billion in funding to schools and food banks to buy supplies from local farms to help low-income families. A spokesperson for the USDA told CBS MoneyWatch at the time, "Unlike the Biden Administration, which funneled billions in [Commodity Credit Corporation] funds into short-term programs with no plan for longevity, USDA is prioritizing stable, proven solutions that deliver lasting impact. open image in gallery The Agriculture Department spent thousands of dollars on giant banners featuring President Donald Trumps face as it was cutting aid to schools and food banks, a new report has revealed ( Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images ) The Commodity Credit Corporation is a government-owned entity that finances programs supporting domestic agriculture. Around the same time, the USDA spent more than $16,000 on banners of Trump and former President Abraham Lincoln, who created the department, to hang outside its Washington headquarters, according to documents obtained by Salon. The Independent has reached out to the USDA and the White House for comment. The banners were put up in May which coincided with the departments 163rd anniversary. open image in gallery The banners of Trump and former President Abraham Lincoln were put up in May coinciding with the departments 163rd anniversary ( Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images ) At the time, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins shared photos of the banners and wrote on X, 163 years after Lincoln founded @USDA, President Trumps bold vision is ushering in a Golden Age for our farmers. The banners were printed and installed by Maryland contractor Timsco Graphics for $16,400, Salon reported, citing a work order. There were supposed to be three banners, according to the work order, but only two are currently hanging. At the time, Timsco CEO Keith Prichard posted a photo on LinkedIn of the Lincoln banner and another banner of Trump and Rollins. open image in gallery Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins previously cheered over the banners, saying, 'President Trumps bold vision is ushering in a Golden Age for our farmers' ( Andrew Harnik/Getty Images ) When the banners were first put up the USDA explained its decision to the fact-checking site Snopes. USDA has much to remember in the coming months, the department said, noting the anniversary of its founding, Memorial Day, Flag Day and the Fourth of July. The statement continued: USDA is the only federal agency located on the National Mall. The banners on the building's facade observe these moments in American history and acknowledge the vision and leadership of USDA's founder, Abraham Lincoln, and the best advocate of America's farmers and ranchers, President Trump. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The future of Ukraines industrial heartland in the east of the country is uncertain, after Vladimir Putin reportedly demanded it be handed to Russia during his meeting with Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday. Those demands will set a tense backdrop to a potential meeting between Putin and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky. The latter said he was ready for a trilateral meeting with Trump and Putin, after he held a friendly meeting with the US president in the White House on Monday. Were going to work with Ukraine. Were going to work with everybody, and were going to make sure that if theres peace, the peace is going to stay long term. This is very long term, Trump said after Mondays meeting. But territorial disputes, such as Putins demands for the Donbas, will pose a major challenge for mediators. The Russian leader demanded that Ukrainian forces withdraw from Donetsk as part of any ceasefire deal, and said he would be prepared to stop fighting on the rest of the frontline if Kyiv gave in to the demand and addressed the root causes of the conflict. The Ukrainian president has said that Putin wants to take the remaining 30 per cent of the eastern region, which has been the location of some of the fiercest battles in the three-and-a-half-year war. But losing Donetsk would give Russia control of almost all of the Donbas, the collective name for Ukraines eastern industrial heartland, which has been long coveted by Putin. Last week, Zelensky vowed that Ukraine would never leave the Donbas and warned that Putin could use it as a springboard for a future invasion. However, sources close to the meeting told The Independent that the dramatic move appears to have been endorsed by Mr Trump as a means to bring an end to the war. As Kyiv fights to keep the Donbas from Trumps so-called land swap deal, heres all you need to know about the region. Where is the Donbas? Situated along Ukraines eastern border, the Donbas takes its portmanteau name from Donets Basin, a further abbreviation of Donets Coal Basin, in reference to the coal basin along the Donets Ridge and River. The Donbas stretches across the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, two large regions of Ukraine that have been on the front line of the war that followed Russias invasion. How long has it been occupied? The Donbas has been partially occupied by Russia since 2014, around the same time that Putin annexed the Crimean peninsula. Russian-backed separatists broke away from the Ukrainian government to proclaim the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk independent peoples republics and, as a result, Moscow captured more than a third of Ukraines eastern territory. Russia classes inhabitants of the Republic of Crimea, Sevastopol, the Luhansk Peoples Republic, the Donetsk Peoples Republic, and the regions of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson as subjects of the Russian Federation. Ukraine insists these territories are part of Ukraine. It is believed that around 88 per cent of the Donbas is under Russian control. This includes almost all of the Luhansk region and 75 per cent of the Donetsk region, according to Reuters. Approximately 6,600 sq 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 such as Pokrovsk. open image in gallery Donbas is known for its coal-mining industry ( Reuters ) A key strategic region in the war The hyper-industrialised Donbas economy is dominated by coal mining and metallurgy. The region has one of the largest coal reserves in Ukraine. When conflict broke out in 2014, Ukraines coal-mining enterprises saw a 22.4 per cent decline in the production of raw coal compared with 2013, according to the Kyiv Post, showing the countrys reliance on Donbas as an energy powerhouse. But as well as its economic significance, Donbas has been described as a fortress belt by the Institute for the Study of War in terms of its strategic value. Donetsk forms the main fortified defensive line across the front line, stretching through Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, Druzhkivka, and Kostiantynivka. Ukraine is holding a key defensive line across Donetsk, says Elina Beketova, a fellow at the Centre for European Policy Analysis, describing a fortified zone buildup over years because the war began 11 years ago. She adds that Russia hasnt been able to break through since 2014, and has lost many people there. The entire region is heavily mined, and Ukrainian troops have been preparing it for years. open image in gallery Ukrainian soldiers train in the east of the country ( Anadolu Agency via Getty ) Its not just trenches, its a deep, layered defence with bunkers, anti-tank ditches, minefields, and industrial areas built into the terrain. The area includes dominant heights, rivers, and urban zones that make it extremely hard to capture, explains Beketova. She says that losing this fortified line would have catastrophic consequences for Ukraine, as it holds back Russias advancement into central and western parts of the country. The front would shift approximately 80km west, and Russia would gain open ground flat steppe with no natural barriers giving it a direct path towards Kharkiv, Poltava, and Dnipro. What Zelensky has said about the Donbas Zelensky has repeatedly rejected calls from Russia to give up the Donbas. In response to Putins request that Ukraine withdraw from eastern Donetsk, Zelensky vowed that his people would never leave the Donbas, and warned that Putins troops could use it as a springboard for a future invasion. We will not leave Donbas. We cannot do this. Everyone forgets the first part our territories are illegally occupied. Donbas for the Russians is a springboard for a future new offensive, he said. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Children in Lithuania will be taught how to build and operate drones as the country builds its capacity to counter the potential threat of a Russian attack. The government in Vilnius aims to teach more than 22,000 people drone skills as it looks to expand civil resistance training. The initiative, led jointly by the defence and education ministries, will see children aged eight and above among the thousands taught how to build and pilot drones. The first three drone centres are due to open in September and the remaining six by 2028. The plan is for 15,500 adults and 7,000 children to be taught drone skills by 2028, defence minister Dovile Sakaliene said. It will be adapted to different age groups, with children between eight and 10 years old learning to build and pilot simple drones, meanwhile secondary-school students would learn to design and manufacture drone parts. A Ukrainian serviceman of 57th motorised brigade controls an FPV drone at the frontline in Kharkiv region, Ukraine ( AP ) The older children would also learn how to build and fly the more-advanced first-person view drones which have been a vital element of both Ukraine and Russias war strategies. Drones have become increasingly common in everyday life and warfare in recent years. The Nato country of about 2.8 million people on the alliance's eastern flank borders both Russia's Kaliningrad exclave and Moscow-allied Belarus - and since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine it has been on high-alert regarding the Russian threat. The Lithuanian government plans a total investment of more than 3.3m into the plan. The youngest participants will engage in simple drone construction and piloting through games and experiments, said Tomas Godliauskas, Lithuanias vice-minister of national defence. He said that the training would deepen childrens technical literacy through extracurricular courses. Secondary students will learn programming basics alongside indoor drone piloting and construction, while upper secondary students will design 3D drone parts and construct FPV drones, he added. Lithuanias active use of drones has grown and is motivating its increasing focus on drone technology. In July, two incidents were recorded in which suspected Russian drones crossed from Belarus into Lithuanian territory. A report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) earlier this year found that Russia had begun teaching thousands of school children in the occupied Ukrainian territories how to use drones. The report found that drone development had become a strategic state project in Russia, looking into research and manufacturing but also how to create a large-scale production base. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he wants to pursue a new nuclear weapons agreement with US President Donald Trump, ahead of their anticipated summit in Alaska on Friday. The potential accord is framed by Mr Putin as part of a wider initiative to bolster global peace, coming amid persistent pressure from Mr Trump to de-escalate the three-and-a-half-year conflict in Ukraine. Moscow views the Ukrainian situation as integral to a complex web of security concerns that have elevated East-West tensions to their highest point since the Cold War. Despite Kyiv's repeated calls for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, Mr Putin has resisted, even as Russian forces continue their gradual advance in Ukraine. However, progress on a new arms control treaty at the summit could allow Mr Putin to present himself as actively engaged in broader peace efforts. This, in turn, might help dissuade Mr Trump from imposing new sanctions on Russia and its key exports, including oil, a measure the US leader has previously threatened. Such a development could also signify a broader push to mend relations with Washington, particularly concerning trade and economic ties, areas the Kremlin believes hold significant untapped potential. open image in gallery Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a ceremonial ship launching for the nuclear-powered submarine Perm at the Atomflot, a service base for nuclear-powered fleet ( Sputnik ) Why has Putin repeatedly talked up Russias nuclear arsenal? Throughout the war, Mr Putin has delivered veiled threats about using nuclear missiles and warned that entering a direct confrontation with Russia could lead to World War Three. They have included verbal statements, war games, and lowering Russia's threshold for using nuclear weapons. The fact that Russia has more nuclear weapons than any other country gives it a stature in this domain that far exceeds its conventional military or economic power, allowing Mr Putin to face Mr Trump as an equal on the world stage when it comes to security. How many nuclear weapons do Russia and the US have? According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia and the United States have estimated military stockpiles of 4,309 and 3,700 nuclear warheads respectively. China trails behind with an estimated 600. open image in gallery Russian Security Council deputy chairman Dmitry Medvedev ( Sputnik ) What does the existing US-Russia nuclear treaty say? Signed by then-US president Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev in 2010, the New START treaty caps the number of strategic nuclear warheads that the United States and Russia can deploy. Each is limited to no more than 1,550, and a maximum of 700 long-range missiles and bombers. Strategic weapons are those designed by each side to hit the enemy's centres of military, economic and political power. The treaty came into force in 2011 and was extended in 2021 for five more years after US President Joe Biden took office. In 2023, Mr Putin suspended Russia's participation but Moscow said it would continue to observe the warhead limits. The treaty expires on 5 February 2026. Security analysts expect both sides to breach the limits if it is not extended or replaced. open image in gallery The test firing of an ICBM belonging to Russias nuclear deterrence forces ( Russian Defence Ministry ) What are the other nuclear points of contention? In a symptom of the underlying tensions, Mr Trump this month said he had ordered two US nuclear submarines to move closer to Russia because of what he called threatening comments by Mr Medvedev about the possibility of war with the US. The Kremlin played down the move but said "everyone should be very, very careful" with nuclear rhetoric. Separately, an arms race looms over shorter- and intermediate-range missiles, which can also carry nuclear warheads. During Mr Trump's first presidency, in 2019, he pulled the US out of a treaty that had abolished all ground-based weapons in this category. Moscow denied his accusations that it was cheating. The United States plans to start deploying weapons including SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, previously placed mainly on ships, as well as new hypersonic missiles, in Germany from 2026. Russia said this month it no longer observes any restrictions on where it might deploy intermediate-range missiles. Europe is burning. This week, we have seen heatwaves across southern Europe, sparking blazes from Portugal to the Balkans. Spain broke its hottest temperature record on 28 June, and on Wednesday, the country was battling its 10th consecutive day of extreme heat. With the heatwave expected to last until Monday, it is set to become one of the longest the country has ever experienced. We have seen the biggest wildfires in France since 1949, with an area around the size of Paris burning in a very short period. Fires have raged on the outskirts of Naples and are currently out of control in Greece, which has requested EU water bombers to aid nearly 5,000 firefighters tackling more than 20 blazes. The combination of drought, heatwaves, and wildfires has become common in 2025. We are now in a period of compound hazards, when two or more climate events affect each other. For example, landslides caused by fires followed by intense rainfall or flooding these are multiple extreme environmental occurrences happening either at the same time or one after the other. I have researched heatwaves for six years and helped develop parts of early warning systems for heat. We can often tell three months in advance if a specific summer season is particularly at risk of heatwaves, as was the case this year. We could see it in above-average temperature charts and sea surface pressure patterns, which allowed us to predict this summers heat with high confidence very early on. It is more difficult to forecast droughts and rainfall; in these cases, we make use of teleconnections links with weather patterns found in other parts of the world, such as El Nino to look at how this might influence the weather in Europe. The broad definition of a heatwave is three or more days of above-average temperatures during a regions warm season; local countries have different variations on this. Heatwaves in Europe are caused by blocking high-pressure systems (settled areas of air that act similarly to an oven). We know that with the climate crisis, the frequency, intensity, and duration of heatwaves are increasing, and the area exposed is greater. We saw five heatwaves in the summer of 2022, when temperatures in the UK hit a record 40.3C. The heatwave currently affecting central Europe and parts of the UK is interesting because it is the result of an ex-tropical storm, Dexter, interacting with high pressure over Europe, which is causing it to move up over parts of the UK. This has meant that we experienced rainfall in the middle of this heatwave, something we also saw during the August 2003 heatwave. Its a trend we need to be alert for in the future, because the indication is that summer storms, as well as heatwaves, could be a problem. We have yet to focus research on this and need to more work on these interactions. open image in gallery Burnt crops following a wildfire near Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse, France, last week ( Reuters ) Until recently, as a country, Britain would get excited about a coming heatwave; paddling pools would be hastily pulled out of sheds, and barbecues and beach trips arranged. But as heatwaves have become more common, they have become more of a concern. People struggle to sleep and heat extremes slow down workers, reduce working hours, and cut output, especially in outdoor sectors such as construction, transport, and tourism. They can also wear down transport systems, strain power grids, and worsen air quality. We are also realising how heatwaves are silent killers. They cause deaths every time they occur, and it is estimated that up to 2,000 people may have died in the July 2025 heatwave across Europe. They also cause a rise in hospitalisations and ambulance service callouts. In London, during the July heatwave, the ambulance service received more than 7,000 calls, increasing pressure on an already struggling health system. Heatwaves pose significant risks for all ages, from the elderly to the very young. I have led research on the impact of heat on maternal, newborn, and childrens health, which shows evidence of an increased risk of preterm birth with heat exposure. There is also a rise in accidental deaths and drowning during heatwaves, as young people rush to rivers and the seaside. It is really important for everyone to keep cool not just vulnerable people. Heatwaves affect our environment in interesting ways too both on land and at sea. Weve seen an influx of non-typical species in British waters, such as European sardines, anchovies, pilchards, and even some octopuses, with traditional species such as Atlantic herring and European sprat migrating further north. open image in gallery A man uses a hose on a building as a wildfire approaches in Voundeni, Greece, on Wednesday ( AP ) On land, freshwater ecology is affected, as is the capacity of rivers to act as coolers for cities during heatwaves. During low flows caused by drought, a rivers ability to cool is reduced, as shown in a study of the River Don in Sheffield. This years heatwaves are already having an impact on crop yields. One crop particularly susceptible to the heat is broccoli, which prefers a maximum growing temperature of 23C hence there will be smaller heads of broccoli, and possibly shortages. Other crops affected include wheat, barley, and potatoes. Price rises often follow heatwaves, as was the case with bread in the UK after a number of European heatwaves, because of the impact on cereal crops. The pattern of when and where people holiday is already starting to shift, and it is likely that holiday habits will continue to change. While some may opt for a more temperate UK climate, it will be important to support communities whose livelihoods depend on tourism and these communities are often the same ones that are affected by wildfires. Tourists may now opt for a spring or autumn break in Greece, instead of visiting in high summer. open image in gallery In the UK, soaring temperatures are putting pressure on an already struggling NHS ( Reuters ) How we work will change the number of breaks a person needs, and safe environments need to be considered. Urban planning will be affected, too. More trees are being planted in many cities as a source of shade, and investment in cooling strategies for urban areas is urgently needed. In France, a row is brewing over the excessive use of air-conditioning systems, dubbed by some an environmental aberration, but there are innovative approaches, such as using the River Seine to cool Paris, or misting fans in Novi Sad, Serbia. Looking to the future, we will need to work together across sectors and policy, which can be challenging when people are accustomed to working in silos. We didnt act to mitigate the emissions driving climate change, so we now need to focus on adapting our lives to the changing conditions, while also reducing emissions. We need to assess the use of air-conditioning for the most vulnerable in places like schools and hospitals. On an individual level, we need to talk about climate change with family and friends, discuss the risks, and stay safe during heatwaves while conserving water during droughts. One surprising hack Ive seen is the use of yoghurt on windows to keep a house cool during summer. Many of my friends and family also know to cool their hands and necks first if they are feeling too hot. The richest in society produce the most emissions, but we are seeing were not immune to some of the impacts. My hope is that this will make the transition to net zero more urgent, and encourage us to work together to understand how our actions matter and how the severity of these events can be prevented from increasing in the future. Dr Chloe Brimicombe, Climate Scientist, Royal Meteorological Society Close North Korea releases video of troops fighting in Ukraine war On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump 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. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A British volunteer fighting alongside Ukrainian forces against Russia has said that soldiers on the ground feel that Fridays summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska is a joke and will not lead to peace. Drew Scott, a former British soldier who joined Ukraines International Legion in 2023, told The Independent that Ukrainian soldiers were in it for the long haul and not anticipating an imminent resolution to the conflict. Trump and Putin will meet face to face for the first time in seven years on Friday at a summit in Alaska, but Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky will not be present. Kyiv maintains that it will not cede any occupied land to Russia as part of a peace agreement. We know what ceasefires look like from the Russian side. Their mentality is to just keep on hammering a country with missiles until the will of the people is eradicated, Scott said. open image in gallery Drew Scott joined Ukraines International Legion in 2023 ( International Legion ) But the stamina of the people over here is strong and thats why I love this country. There's only one way that peace will be restored here and that is when Russia pulls its troops from Ukraine. An estimated 8,000 foreign volunteers, including hundreds of Britons, have joined the Ukrainian International Legion and other units within the Ukrainian military. Scotts call sign is Caesar but he quickly points out that this was chosen by his comrades - not himself. He used his real name in this interview because the Russians identified him long ago. Pro-Kremlin websites have accused him of being a mercenary and offered a bounty for him, dead or alive. But speaking near a safe house his unit uses during rests from frontline duty, he refuted the allegation completely. Im not a mercenary and those I care about know Im not here for money. I came here because when I see women, children, innocent civilians being killed, injured and maimed, I just can't sit back and watch. open image in gallery Scott at the entrance to the town of Yampil ( International Legion ) Scott was born in Newcastle in 1967, into a family with a history of military service. He was taken into Britains elite Parachute regiment aged 20, and spent nine years with the their Third Battalion, including 30 months in Northern Ireland during The Troubles and a spell with peace-keeping forces in Iraq. He became aware of Ukraine after Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea and decided to volunteer his military skills after Putins 2022 full-blown invasion. He compared Russias act of aggression to something from the age of Genghis Khan that shouldnt be happening in this day and age. We each have a responsibility to fight against dictatorship and evil, he added. And humanity has lost something when you can brush these horrors aside as if theyre nothing. Scott was 55 years old when he enlisted in the legion in 2023, leading some younger comrades to jokingly refer to him as grandad. His experience from the British Army led to his swift promotion to lead a mortar platoon in the legion. Since, he has seen action in many of the wars most vicious battles in the east and southeast. All the nightmare places. open image in gallery Scott spent 30 months in Northern Ireland with the British Army ( Askold Krushelnycky ) Typically, he said, the platoon digs trenches and bunkers in their new positions and the mortars are covered by camouflaged sliding roofs that open only to fire a salvo. In 2023 they could hope that these would remain concealed for long periods. Not anymore. Drones have changed everything, even in the last few months, he said. There are swarms of attack drones in the sky and surveillance drones high up watching everything to identify our positions. Once they spot you they throw everything at you. Recently his mortar post, comprising a bunker and tunnels, was spotted and attacked by Russian artillery and FPV (First Person View) suicide drones. An explosive drone came through the roof where we had our 82mm mortar in the tunnelwe were getting hammered by heavy artillery for about two hours.. then more FPVs came in. The soil was caving in on us. And then, boom, a great big cloud of smoke came through the tunnels into the bunker. And then another explosion came in and it just blew me off my feet. open image in gallery Trump and Putin meeting in Helsinki in 2018 ( AP ) Eventually, he said they managed to evacuate with only one man seriously injured while Scott only suffered a concussion. He is proud that nobody under his command has been killed although four have been injured. He said Russian drones have taken a terrible toll in deaths and injuries, including psychological scars. Scott said: It's a type of warfare that I wouldn't wish on anybody. You can see where a lot of the guys are going to suffer with mental health issues like PTSD. The buzzing sound of a drone is there at the front all the time. It gets to you and you think is this my time? He said that the sound of drones haunts soldiers even in peaceful settings. The sound of a blender in a kitchen, a lawnmower, an air-conditioner can freak you out. Scott thinks the war is unlikely to end soon. What you have to remember is that Putins a psychotic f****** maniac wholl do anything to remain in power. Some believe Trump will try to strong arm Ukraine into permanently giving up territory to Russia. Scott said he and his comrades think that would be a total betrayal of the armed forces, of the guys who've paid the ultimate price and of families who have suffered over the years. But he said the morale of the guys in our platoon, our battalion, is awesome. We're in for the long haul. Until the Russians get their troops out. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice 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. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Far-right Israeli minister Bezalel Smotrich has approved plans for a settlement that would split East Jerusalem from the occupied West Bank, a move his office said would bury the idea of a Palestinian state. It was not immediately clear if Benjamin Netanyahu backed the plan to revive the long-frozen E1 scheme, which Palestinians and world powers have said would divide the West Bank in two. The approval of the plan is likely to draw international fury. In a statement headlined Burying the idea of a Palestinian state, Mr Smotrichs spokesperson said more details would be given later about the plan to build 3,401 houses for Israeli settlers between an existing settlement in the West Bank and Jerusalem. Israel had frozen construction plans there since 2012 because of objections from the United States, European allies, and other world powers who considered the project a threat to any future peace deal with the Palestinians. open image in gallery Far-right Israeli lawmakers Itamar Ben Gvir, left, and Bezalel Smotrich, attend the swearing-in ceremony for Israels parliament at the Knesset, Jerusalem, in 2022 ( AP ) It came as more than 100 agencies and charities warned that Israels rules for aid groups working in Gaza and the occupied West Bank will block much-needed relief as well as replacing independent organisations with those that serve Israels political and military agenda. The mounting backlash over aid restrictions and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza have been cited by several countries as factors in their decision to move towards recognising Palestinian statehood. The groups, including Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders and CARE, were responding to registration rules announced by Israel in March that require organisations to hand over full lists of their donors and Palestinian staff for vetting. They contend that doing so could endanger their staff and give Israel broad grounds to block aid if groups are deemed to be delegitimising the country or supporting boycotts or divestment. The groups stressed that most of them had not been able to deliver a single truck of lifesaving assistance since Israel implemented a blockade in March. Their letter called on other countries and donors to pressure Israel to end the weaponisation of aid, including through bureaucratic obstruction. COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of coordinating the supply of humanitarian aid to Gaza, denied the claims in the letter, saying that 380 trucks had entered Gaza on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the UN agency helping Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said on Thursday that dehydration is increasing in Gaza as a result of limited access to water and a heatwave that has pushed temperatures above 40C. Hospitals throughout Gaza reported casualties from Israeli strikes, including eight deaths in Gaza City. As European countries amplify their criticism of Israel and concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, some are expanding evacuations. Italys foreign affairs ministry said it had received 114 Palestinian evacuees from Gaza on Wednesday, including 31 children suffering from severe injuries, such as amputations, or serious diseases. open image in gallery A man sells plastic bags of water for one shekel each in Gaza City earlier this week ( AP ) Mr Netanyahu wants to realise Donald Trumps vision of relocating much of Gazas population of more than 2 million people through what he refers to as voluntary migration a plan that critics have warned could amount to 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 Israeli TV station i24 to discuss the planned offensive in areas that include Gaza City, where hundreds of thousands of displaced people are sheltering. Efforts to revive ceasefire talks have resumed after apparently breaking down last month. Hamas representatives met with Egyptian officials on Wednesday in Cairo, according to Hamas official Taher al-Nounou. Israel has no plans to send its negotiating team to the talks in Cairo, Mr 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 increase the pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire. The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the attack on 7 October 2023 that sparked the war. Israel believes around 20 are still alive. Families fear that a new offensive could endanger them. Reuters and Associated Press contributed to this report For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms have been issued across parts of the UK in the aftermath of the fourth heatwave of the summer. Forecasters say parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland could see heavy showers and thunderstorms on Wednesday evening and into Thursday. The Met Office is warning of potential disruption to roads and public transport during the wet weather, with as much as 50mm of rainfall possible in some areas. It comes after scorching temperatures across the country on Monday and Tuesday, with some areas seeing the mercury climb above 33C in the hottest places. The yellow weather warning is in place from 2pm until midnight on Wednesday across swathes of Scotland, including Aberdeenshire, Dundee, Edinburgh, East Lothian, and Glasgow. A second thunderstorm follows immediately afterwards, covering much of central and eastern Northern Ireland, as well as Scotland, until 10pm on Thursday. open image in gallery A yellow weather warning is in place on Wednesday ( Met Office ) Forecasters said those living in the affected areas should be prepared for heavy rainfall, warning hail and gusty winds are also possible. They added drivers should prepare for difficult driving conditions and some road closures due to the storms. Heat health alerts have been extended into next week for much of England after the fourth heatwave of the summer brought thunderstorms and showers. The UK Health Security Agency said yellow warnings will now be in place in Yorkshire and Humber, the East and West Midlands, London, the South East and South West and East of England until 6pm on August 18. The warnings mean significant impacts on health and social care services are possible due to high temperatures, including a potential rise in deaths among the elderly or those with pre-existing health conditions. Alerts were previously due to end at 6pm on Wednesday. People have also been warned communities could become cut off by flooded roads, with those in areas prone to flash flooding advised to prepare a flood plan and emergency flood kit. The Met Office said: Whilst most areas will remain dry, a few isolated to well-scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms could develop on Wednesday afternoon and evening. Where these occur, some places could receive 20mm to 30 mm in less than an hour, with very localised totals in excess of 50mm possible if storms repeatedly affect the same areas. The most intense thunderstorms could produce large hail and gusty winds. Showers and thunderstorms will tend to ease mid to late evening, but may linger over Orkney and the far north of mainland Scotland into the first part of the night. open image in gallery Thunderstorms and heavy rain may cause travel disruption across parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland on Thursday, the Met Office has warned ( PA ) Forecasters said there was a slight chance of power cuts causing loss of service to some homes and businesses. To prepare, they said people should consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. People have also been warned of a potential danger to life caused by a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater. The Met Office said heavy showers and thunderstorms were also expected to develop on Thursday morning. Further scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms are then likely to develop on Thursday afternoon and evening across portions of central and eastern Scotland in particular, the forecaster said. These will be rather slow-moving, potentially giving isolated accumulations of 40 to 60 mm in an hour, with a higher likelihood of some impacts from surface water flooding. Showers and thunderstorms should slowly decay during the mid to late evening. Warm and sunny weather is forecast across much of the UK in the run-up to the weekend, with London set to see highs of 29C on Wednesday and Thursday. Sunny and dry conditions are expected to last into next week in the south of England, with skies turning greyer from Monday further north. The National Tourism Development Authority, Failte Ireland, has appointed Caroline Bocquel as its chief executive officer. She will take up the role in November, and is the first woman to hold the post. Ms Bocquel has most recently served as CEO of Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the seafood development agency, and has a background in financial management, corporate governance and strategic planning. She was also chief financial officer in Goal, the international humanitarian response agency, and she has been director of corporate service in the Marine Institute. She is succeeding Paul Kelly, who stepped down from the role earlier this year and is due to take up the position of CEO with the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) next month. Cost of cleaning up the former Roche pharma site in Co Clare exceeds 150m Remediation work saw 17,500 tonnes of contaminated soil removed to Netherlands for treatment Roche failed to find a buyer for the plant, so it set about decommissioning the site in Clarecastle, Co Clare Gordon Deegan Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 The cost of the clean-up at Roches former manufacturing site in Clarecastle, Co Clare, has now come to 150.5m over five years. Deal will bring Granites turnover to more than 20m this year The deal is expected to boost Granites annual revenues to about 20m this year. Last November, Granite had expected to generate turnover of more than 18m in 2025. One of the companies behind Granite Digital posted a 433,000 profit in 2023, the last year for which accounts are publicly available. Credit unions will be able to more than triple their current mortgage and business lending after the Central Bank gave the go-ahead to changes to lending regulations for the sector. Mortgage rates have dropped to their lowest level in more than two years, and the gap between what is being charged here and by lenders in the rest of the Eurozone is narrowing. We think our old neighbour is grazing his cattle on our vacant family farm and were worried he could claim squatters rights. What can we do? Adrian Weckler: Futuristic, convenient job-creators or intrusive pests delivery drones are here, and it seems nobody is in charge Even his enemies admired his chutzpah: How Trump became a God of New York in the 1980s In his new book, Jonathan Mahler vividly evokes the New York of four decades ago the racial divide, the Aids epidemic and the audacious materialism Donald Trump in 1987 above New York City, flying aboard his Puma helicopter. Photo: Joe McNally via Getty Pat Carty Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 The back cover of this history of New York calls it a real-life Bonfire of the Vanities. Tom Wolfes bestselling 1987 novel about a bond trader who comes a cropper in a very serious way is also referred to within the text, but the extended dramatis personae and the scope of events covered here would have even the author famed for his white suit throwing his hands up in defeat. Its closer to the Thackeray that inspired Wolfe or even the richly-detailed doorstops of the Russian masters. The group will play in front of 160,000 fans across their Saturday and Sunday shows at Croke Park this weekend Work continues building the huge stage ready for sold-out Oasis on Saturday and Sunday at Croke Park. Photo: Collins Photos The first images are emerging of the stage set-up for the double-header of sold-out Oasis gigs this weekend at Croke Park as excitement levels reach fever pitch. After almost exactly a year of waiting, the time is almost upon us when the iconic rock band take to the stage in the 82,000-seater national stadium's famed cauldron of noise for their first concert in Ireland in 16 years. The group have so far performed 15 nights around England, Wales and Scotland and are currently in Ireland enjoying a four-day gap between their last show of a three-night stopover in Edinburgh and Saturdays Croke Park gig. Little is known by way of official Oasis social media of what exactly brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher are up to in Ireland ahead of the gigs, though they are joined here by members Gem Archer, Andy Bell and Joey Waronker for the reunion tour. But with 160,000 diehard fans expected to make their way through the turnstiles over Saturday and Sunday, many have been hoping to catch a glimpse of how the event is going to go down. This evening, images of pre-concert preparations at Croke Park have been published which show substantial progress on construction of the stage. Work continues building the huge stage ready for sold-out Oasis on Saturday and Sunday in Croke Park, Dublin. Photo: Collins Photos Situated in front of Hill 16, high-viz workers can be seen high up on a cherry picker connecting vertical chains to the metallic stage structure above while an industrial-sized truck sits outside the entrance between the Hill and the Hogan Stand. Stewards can also be seen standing by temporary gates outside the entrance to the stadium. Paul Bonehead Arthurs, guitarist and co-founder of Oasis, posted a series of photos to his Instagram yesterday and today which tickled the groups Irish fan base pink. Captioning the first one Bring on the noise accompanied by four tricolour flag emojis, Mr Arthurs photo showcases a misty-eyed view of Dublin Bay including some of Howth, Sutton and the entire Bull Island, the view seen by all plane passengers landing at Dublin Airport. He posted further pictures to his page today one of him standing alongside fellow guitarist Andy Bell on stony beach as well as the pair in the water together with the caption When in Rome and all that. The Gallagher brothers have strong connections to Ireland given that their parents, Peggy and Thomas, hailed from Charlestown, Co Mayo and Duleek, Co Meath respectively before emigrating to England and meeting in their youth in Manchester. Noel is the only one of the pair that has already performed at Croke Park as a GAA player representing the club Oisins from Manchester for whom both brothers played in their younger years. Extra rail services to Dublin are planned for the upcoming weekend as crowds are set to descend on Croke Park for the gigs. Croke Park can be reached by taking the following routes on Dublin Bus: 1, 6, 7(a), 11, 13, 15, 16, 27(a/b), 33, 40(b/d/e), 41(b/c/d), 42, 43, 44, 53a, 122, 123, 130, H1, H2, H3. Scramble for prized merch at Oasis pop-up shop in Dublin as fans count down the days to Croke Park gigsDevotees of the Britpop band are scooping up T-shirts, vinyl and posters before they sell out But do the fans know the lyrics to Oasis best-loved hits? The Irish Independent finds out Its almost a year since the guns fell silent, the stars aligned and the great wait was over, as brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher announced their comeback as Oasis. More than 16 years on from the last time the Manchester rockers played Ireland at Slane in June 2009, the excitement was palpable at their pop-up merch store at St Stephens Green, Dublin. A steady crowd of people streamed into the store throughout the afternoon, many emerging minutes later with bags stuffed with T-shirts, hoodies, posters and special-edition vinyl presses made for the Live 25 tour. Among the fans flocking to the store were brothers Daniel and Niall Duffy, aged 18 and 20, from Lusk in Co Dublin. Rock n Roll Star, Slide Away and The Masterplan were the picks of the bunch when the Duffys were asked their favourite Oasis tracks. Daniel nailed a rendition of Live Forever as we challenged fans to finish the lyrics from some of their hits. How did fans fare? Watch our video above. There were mixed results one fan was pitch perfect for a few lines of Hello, a group of American tourists enthusiastically sang the wrong lyrics for Wonderwall and another fan hung her head as she forgot the words to Some Might Say. Meanwhile, the collaboration between Oasis and sportswear giant Adidas has made huge waves, selling out when it was first released ahead of the tour and proving hugely popular at the pop-ups seen across Cardiff, London, Edinburgh and now Dublin. When the Irish Independent visited the store, there was just a single shirt bearing the three stripes left, a lone black and beige, size large short sleeve. A pair of friends deliberated over the shirt, balked at the 55 price tag and promptly placed it back on the rack. It was scooped up by the man next to them in the blink of an eye. For his trouble, he got a look that screamed, Would you have stood in my grave as fast? Noel Gallagher and Liam Gallagher in 2008. Photo: Getty Brothers Daniel and Niall Duffy, having already shelled out more than 500 for tickets for Saturdays gig at Croke Park, spent nearly 400 between them at the pop-up shop selling clothes, programmes and vinyl. They went to see Liam when his 30th-anniversary tour came to Ireland last year, so Niall made sure to get his younger brother on the Oasis train ahead of the gig. I spent 190 on this, Daniel said, nodding to his recently acquired bag of goodies. Its a tour programme, a hoodie and two T-shirts. The brothers, self-described Oasis superfans, managed to avoid the scramble for tickets many had struggled with. Another Oasis pop-up shop on Carnaby Street, London, Photo: PA We ended up getting on the pre-sale ballot. We werent far off only paying for the cheapest, we didnt have to deal with the general sale, Niall said. We only paid the standard price for the tickets, we avoided the dynamic pricing totally. Standard pricing for the tickets was still a pretty penny for them at around 170 each for seats in the lower Hogan Stand, but theyre just happy to not be up in the nosebleeds. On the relatively younger side of the Oasis fandom, this is the first chance for the Duffy brothers to see the band live. Did they think the day would ever come? I had a feeling it would happen at some point, Daniel said. I didnt think it would happen so soon, but I was hopeful. An Evening with Leo tickets for Varadkars book launch event cost 51.50 Attendees will receive a hardback copy of the memoir, titled Speaking My Mind Leo Varadkar Darragh Nolan Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 16:10 Tickets for an event with former taoiseach Leo Varadkar have gone on sale priced at 51.50. Man (29) accused of stabbing 14-year-old to steal e-scooter in Dublin The boy had no connection to the accused, and the boy's parents witnessed the incident, the court heard Stock photo: Tom Tuite Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 07:54 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. Martha Nolan-OSlatarras family seek second post-mortem as mother and sister prepare to bring body home from US Yacht death womans grief-stricken mother Elma, sister Jacqui and other family members have made the painful journey to US to bring her body home Family push for second autopsy for Irish woman found dead on yacht in United States Catherine Fegan Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 The family of a young Irish woman found dead on a boat in the US are seeking a second-opinion post-mortem examination to determine the cause of her death. latest | Drew Harris showed utter contempt for some gardai by drip-leaking lines of report, GRA says Crowe Report found that a minority of gardai were able to get away with being unproductiveGarda Commissioner Drew Harris described findings as shocking and disturbing Some gardai unproductive and disinterested in roads policing report Robin Schiller Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 13:09 The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has said Commissioner Drew Harris showed utter contempt for members of roads policing units by drip-leaking parts of the Crowe report. The different kinds of jellyfish in Irish waters when to look out for them and how to treat stings There was no rush, no traffic lights, no beeping of horns see two Irish beauty spots at once in new cruise experience A British 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. It looks like doomsday wildfires blaze as European heatwave persists Evacuations needed as areas in Portugal, Spain, Greece and Albania continue to burn People watch as a wildfire burns in Achaia in western Greece. Photo: Reuters Louiza Vradi Reuters Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 Wildfires caused by arsonists and thunderstorms, and fanned by a heatwave and strong winds, caused widespread destruction across southern Europe, burning homes and forcing thousands of residents and tourists to flee. One of the most consequential meetings of this century takes place tomorrow, when the fates of Ukraine and Europe may be shaped, despite neither being in attendance. Fears that US president Donald Trump could seal a peace deal that sells Ukraine out are palpable in Kyiv, but anxieties are just as acute, though better concealed, in capitals across the EU. Ahead of the Alaskan summit with Vladimir Putin, Mr Trump said: Im going to see what he has in mind. I may leave and say good luck, and thatll be the end. Such a step would be out of character. It would make Mr Trump look weak and foolish for staging such a historic meeting. For another, the author of The Art of the Deal will not want to be seen as a dupe to the man described as the master of the art of the steal. But he is up against a KGB expert in psy-opps, trained in deception, and Moscow is bent on convincing Mr Trump that Ukraine has no basis for existence and should be erased as a sovereign entity. They have crafted a persuasive case to make it sound that this would also serve US interests. European leaders appealed for a ceasefire before any talks took place. They fear Mr Trump will be bamboozled by a smorgasbord of demands couched in the most reasonable terms. Moscow recognises that Mr Trump is desperate to win a Nobel Peace Prize, and there is no one better at leveraging such an ambition than Mr Putin. But Ukraine must not be sacrificed along the way. With world peace in the balance, he must be resolute and hold his ground As a condition of a ceasefire of any kind, Russia has demanded that Ukraine withdraw its forces from territories Moscow claims as its own. These include Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. This would be clearly absurd. Mr Trump has hinted that land swapping will be discussed, yet handing large chunks of Ukrainian territory to Moscow with nothing in return could send the continent into a downward spiral. Moscow would press its advantage to sink its teeth in further, wherever it saw weakness. There is a dismal precedent for making critical decisions about nations in absentia. The carve-up of Czechoslovakia in 1938 by Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini and Neville Chamberlain left an indelible stain on the history of Europe. Yet there may be grounds for hope following a phone conversation between European leaders and Mr Trump. German chancellor Friedrich Merz said Mr Trump and Europe were willing to crank up the pressure on Russia should the meeting prove fruitless. And French president Emmanuel Macron said Mr Trump will press for a ceasefire. He said Mr Trump had agreed an exchange of territories could only be negotiated by Ukraine. The parties had an exceptionally good conversation he added. Let us hope such optimism is not misplaced. To date, Mr Trump has said one thing and done the opposite, but with world peace in the balance, he must be resolute and hold his ground. As Bill Gates said: You have a meeting to make a decision, not to decide on the question. We know that all but one of the EUs member states have endorsed a statement supporting Ukraines right to decide its own future. With the exception of Hungary, all the EU leaders backed the statement, saying that meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or a reduction of hostilities. US president Donald Trump is due to meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska tomorrow to discuss bringing an end to the war. As things stand, theres no invitation for the country the Russian leader invaded, nor for the continent it sits in. It would be true to say that European allies of Ukraine have been burnt before regarding Russian ceasefires. In the past, Russia has made promises that havent been honoured. I would imagine that the EU will especially be anxious about any possible demands by Russia that Ukraine gives up its quest to join Nato or the EU. One has to be concerned that the outcome of tomorrows meeting could leave the people of Ukraine extremely unhappy. Of course, the meeting could fall apart without and progress or breakthrough. Perish the thought. John OBrien, Clonmel, Co Tipperary As Gazan people continue to suffer, at what point are we going to say No more? I fully agree with your editorial that the intentional assassination of journalists in Gaza was intended to stifle the truth in the middle of the genocide and starvation (Israels attempt to silence journalists must be condemned, August 12). Journalists, health-care personnel, children, women, the sick, the infirm and the disabled, along with others, have paid far too high a price in this senseless war. They have witnessed unimaginable death, destruction and famine. Sadly, the international community has become desensitised to images of demolished hospitals, mutilated bodies, weeping women and starving children. When will we say No more to these horrors of war? Dr Munjed Farid Al Qutob, London Vile attacks on our Indian neighbours must not be tolerated in Irish society The abhorrent hate crimes perpetrated against members of the Indian community in Ireland violate our nations values of inclusion and equality. They endanger a community that has given so much to our country through its contributions to health care and the economy. These hate crimes become even more abhorrent when you consider the powerful historical ties between our nations, something that has been highlighted recently by politicians and other influential figures and must continue to be propagated to help foster tolerance in those who support xenophobia. When you read about our histories, you realise there are potent parallels to be found. To those Irish people who would defend the ill-treatment of the Indian community, there are questions that I feel they must strongly consider. Did you know Ireland and India have a shared history of colonialism? Did you know we have a historical longing for self-determination and nationhood? Did you know we have a shared trauma of famine, conflict and partition within our nations? Did you know that during the Irish Famine of the 1840s, wealthy Hindus, princes and those of lesser financial means donated thousands of pounds to relief efforts for our ancestors? Wouldnt all of this justify a strong bond and affinity between our people, and not the bigotry manifested in the recent hate crimes? I hope this cancer in our society can be cured and that the Indian community in Ireland will feel welcomed and respected. Tadhg Mulvey, Co Meath Ireland should look to its history to learn how to assimilate immigrants As an Irish immigrant in Canada, I have watched from afar how Ireland deals with the issue of racism. Without going into details Ireland needs to look inward. It is long forgotten that it took about 12 generations (1200 to 1450) for the Normans and Gaels to assimilate, but eventually we all became one happy race. Hopefully with that behind us, the Irish can do better. Gerard Walsh, Port Elgin, Ontario Pesky minor headaches that build up to an all-out war as I go about my life Small annoyances have a knack for stealing our patience, especially after a long day. The fly that landed on my head last night while I was trying to sleep ranks high, as does the classic sock that stubbornly slips down inside the shoe. Theres the phone screen that refuses to unlock on the first try, traffic lights turning red just as you approach and the dreaded single hair lurking in your dinner. Then theres public wifi that fails every five minutes, the last stubborn blob of toothpaste that wont come out and the remote control dying mid-show. Add to that the loud chewing in a quiet auditorium, misplaced keys when youre already late and the beer that foams over before youve even poured a proper glass. And, in solidarity with Tom Gilsenan, theres the state-service queue where you are always 12th in line (Letters, August 13). He called a public body at 1.30pm and again at 4pm, still stuck behind the same 11th caller who must have been reciting his or her memoirs. Im sure Im not the only one who has these issues, and Im equally sure there are others I havent listed. Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Armagh Gaeltacht colleges keep Irish language alive and are integral to education Aine Ni Bhreisleain writes about the challenges facing Irish colleges in the Gaeltacht regions, where last year 25,480 students attended courses (Exodus of mna ti could lead to end of Gaeltacht tradition for Irish teens, Irish Independent, August 12). Not only does an influx of students contribute to the economies of these regions, but the students themselves immerse themselves in an environment where Irish is the everyday language of the ordinary people living there. For most students this is the only time during their school years when they experience our native language outside of school. The colaisti samhraidh need greater supports because their importance in fostering a gra don teanga in the next generation cannot be over-estimated, Tommy Roddy, Ballybane, Co Galway Al Jazeera journalist Anas Al-Sharif, who was killed in an Israeli strike on Sunday. Photo: Reuters The deaths of five Al Jazeera staff members brings the total number of journalists killed to at least 240 (the numbers vary) in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Many believe the killings are intentional, despite the excuses or lies used by Israel to justify its killings. They regard it as the Israeli states way of stopping the flow of on-the-ground news that captures the horrifying spectacle we see on our TVs each and every day. How can the intentional targeting of 1,400 medical staff, working in hospitals in Gaza, since the October 7 attacks by Hamas and its proxies, be justified? Where is the justification for the targeted killing of 61,430 people and over 200 who have starved to death, or those who have been killed in the process of trying to get food? While we need to see the end of Hamas and its militant comrades, with the release of hostages, how can America or those who supply weapons to Israel justify so much death and destruction? While we have condemned atrocities on both sides of this conflict, with a hamstrung and ineffective UN Security Council incapable of doing anything to stop this conflict, and an America under Donald Trump a willing participator that supplies weapons to this genocide, who will be held to account when this war is finally over? Christy Galligan, Letterkenny, Co Donegal The Tricolour is a symbol of unity between the green and orange be proud of it Darragh McManuss piece Other countries fly their flags without embarrassment its time we did so too (Irish Independent, August 11) is timely. The original Tricolour, handmade by a group of French-Irish women descendants of the Irish Wild Geese was presented to Thomas Francis Meagher in 1848. The tragedy of the Irish Tricolour emanated in political hatred in the aftermath of the Civil War and the 1926 split in Sinn Fein. Post 1922, there was little official teaching of the origins, or symbolism, of the national flag in local museums or libraries. Its description varied according to the tutor, some refusing to accept the Orange opting for Green, White and Yellow/ Gold due to ingrained misunderstanding of the symbolism. Mr McManuss points out: The whole point of our flags design, after all, was to promote reconciliation, not division: orange and green, the white of peace between them. Politicians of all parties allowed the Irish national flag to be usurped by the murdering PIRA post 1970, instead of taking ownership of the flag and all it symbolises. We are all proud of the aeons of history of the island of Ireland; it is time every Irish person took complete ownership of a great symbol with pride. To do so would create a genuine reason for a united Ireland; a genuine reason that requires truth, decency and respectful acceptance of each citizen of the four provinces. Declan Foley, Melbourne, Australia A Putin win signals that borders are negotiable if you use enough brutality Your editorial warns of the dangers in sidelining Ukraine in any territorial negotiations (Throwing Ukraine under the bus is not a legitimate solution, August 11, Irish Independent). History shows us that once a precedent is set, others are quick to exploit it. The world learnt this in 1938, when ceding the Sudetenland to Hitler in the name of peace only emboldened his appetite for conquest. Within a year, Poland was invaded and Europe was engulfed in war. To reward aggression by granting land is to signal to every autocrat that borders are negotiable if you bring enough force to bear. If Ukraine is carved up under diplomatic cover, the next decade will see a rise in opportunistic invasions not only in Europe, but in regions where old disputes lie dormant, waiting for a signal that the strong may once again take from the weak. Enda Cullen, Tullysaran Road, Co Armagh Presidential hopefuls remember: the office is supposed to be impartial The programme that aired on TG4 last Sunday night discussing president Patrick Hillerys tenure over his two terms in office showed the principles regarding impartially that the next president should uphold. Mr Hillery was asked by taoiseach Garret FitzGerald of Fine Gael to dissolve the Dail and call a general election in January 1982 when the budget failed to be passed. He refused to speak to several high-ranking politicians within the main opposition party, Fianna Fail, who wanted to persuade him to not call a general election in order for it to try to form a government. As Mr Hillery was a former Fianna Fail politician, I am sure he was under severe pressure to speak to his former party members. He showed great respect for the impartially of the office in calling a general election. We will hear a lot over the coming few months regarding the personalities and political ideologies of the citizens looking to become the next president, but once elected the president is bound by the Constitution. Eamonn OHara, Manorcunningham, Co Donegal Bureaucracy suffocates democracy and does so at great cost to the taxpayer By definition, democracy is a system of government where the power is held by the people. The reality is that democratic values of public engagement have been replaced in recent years by a complicated maze of bureaucracy. Elected governments have farmed out the role to EU regulations and directives to unelected civil servants, who in turn act on the promptings of government-funded NGOs and vested interests who in turn profit from government investment. Local democracy has become redundant. Bureaucracy is the real thief of democracy and taxpayers money; it creates a multiplicity of laws and regulations, which bamboozles the average citizen. It breaks one of the most basic rules of the law that the law must be clear and precise. It must be understandable to all who are bound by it. In Irelands case, the president, who is the last signature on every bill brought into law, should keep this in mind. That would ensure that our courts are not taken up by petty squabbling among barristers and judges as to meaning of laws passed. Its often too costly for the average citizen to challenge any law or get justice, but not for those with deep pockets. Nuala Nolan, Bowling Green, Co Galway Cork City Council have rejected accusations that communities in Cork city have been left without reliable fire cover. The claims were recently made by Labour Party TD for Cork North Central Eoghan Kenny and his party colleague, Cllr Ciara OConnor for Cork City South West who called for immediate action to address the perceived lack of fire service coverage in the southwest of Cork city. Missing Cork teen located safe and well A 16-year-old boy who had been reported missing from his home in Ballicollig, Co. Cork since Sunday, August 10, 2025 has been located safe and well Stock image. Edana Flynn Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 12:28 A 16-year-old boy who was reported missing from his home in Ballicollig, Co. Cork since Sunday, August 10, 2025, has been located safe and well. Faithful Corkonians are expected to flock to Ballinspittle for one of the most important days in the Catholic calendar. This Friday, August 15, is the Feast Day of the Assumption of Our Lady, and a 12-hour block of rosaries will commence at Ballinspittle from 12pm to midnight which will be led by different people. The 3pm prayers with be conducted by Gerry O'Sullivan, and the 8pm Rosaries will be led by Fr Charlie Nyhan who will also lead the Novena Rosary. Rosaries will continue until midnight finishing with the Angelus. Secretary of the Ballinspittle Grotto, Agnes OBrien said the celebration is a significant day for Catholics. The Feast Day of the Assumption is always an important day in peoples calendar going back for many, many years for a lot of Irish people who would have gone since they were children. It is a day that many Irish people will make their way to a grotto and a lot of older people have kept this tradition alive, which is great to see, Ms OBrien said. According to Ms OBrien, attendees have likened the feeling they get at Ballinspittle in the dark to the experience of Lourdes. It just brings a lot of peace to people and what people find when they come here is it is very prayerful and calming. People have often said, at night that the atmosphere is very like what they experience in Lourdes, she added. Sunday, August 17, is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Knock, which will be celebrated at the grotto from 3pm. A special Rosary will take place at 4pm for Fr Innaiah, who is returning to England after spending 12 months in the parishes of Bantry and Kinsale, which will be led by Gerry O'Sullivan at 4pm. Ballinspittle Grotto is etched in recent Irish history as the moving statues phenomenon took place at the religious monument 40 years ago in July. The Virgin Mary statue in Ballinspittle was reportedly first seen to have moved on July 22, 1985, in a phenomenon that shocked and thrilled the nation. Cork Sinn Fein TD rejects notion his calls to rename key city street amounts to republican-washing Deputy Thomas Gould voicing Cork frustration over six-year-long delay in renaming Angelsea St in memory of War of Independence hero Terence McSwiney Sinn Fein Deputy Thomas Gould says the change, which was passed by Cork City Council in 2019, needs to happen Kevin Galvin Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 18:00 A campaign to change the name of one of Corks most important streets says it is about far more than simply honouring a key republican leader. Councillor claims standstill has left some constituents afraid South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has not held an official meeting on policing or safety in over a year, it has emerged. One councillor said local policing meetings have come to a standstill, which is leading to a culture of fear among some constituents. Last year, the Department of Justice announced it was replacing monthly Joint Policing Committees (JPCs), a forum for councillors, businesses and An Garda Siochana to discuss local security matters. Instead, it was setting up Local Community Safety Partnerships (LCSPs) to work within each local authority. However, a delay in setting this up has meant that no official meetings around local policing have taken place in SDCC since June last year. I put in a motion at a local area committee in January this year asking for a task force for the Balgaddy area in Clondalkin, said Niamh Fennell, Sinn Fein councillor for the Palmerstown-Fonthill area. What I heard back was that theyre setting up an LCSP and they were waiting for an approval from the Ministry around this. In April, I contacted the council again to see what progress had been made. They said we would be notified when its been set up. Its been four months now. The old one (JPCs) would have been disbanded prior to the local election in June that was more than a year ago. There have been no official meetings around local policing since. People are frightened, people are scared. At the moment, it feels like things are at a standstill. To try and get anything done feels like screaming into oblivion. Cllr Fennell said safety measures, like installing CCTV cameras, cannot be put in place in the absence of a new forum. To be honest, the only people you can turn to are the guards. They have a good relationship with the people in my constituency, she said. But [some] people are afraid to open up to anyone, especially authority figures. With concerns around violent attacks and hate crimes on the rise in some areas, councillor Fennell believes more local support is necessary. Right now, there isnt any support locally, its shameful. People have been wondering whats going on. Were their representatives, theyre asking us what can be done, she said. In the absence of a task force or regular meetings, anti-social behaviour teams working with SDCC have held meetings with constituents. SDCC set up clinics in some local areas. However, in the North Clondalkin Safety Forum that I sit on, there hasnt been any uptake from tenants, they havent come along to those meetings, councillor Fennell said. LCSPs will work like a multi-agency umbrella body bringing together different safety and policing teams to respond faster to community issues. I do think once this type of forum is set up, there is a lot that can be done. Representatives from different areas can be more involved, councillor Fennell said. But its very hard to see if it will be more beneficial without it running yet. It needs to be quicker. South Dublin City Council has been contacted for comment. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme There have been 38 council tenancies terminated since 2022 in south Dublin due to anti-social behaviour. South Dublin County Council (SDCC) confirmed this was out of a total 1,994 complaints received about anti-social behaviour over the past three years. It released the figures in response to a recent query from Roisin Mannion, Sinn Fein councillor for Firhouse-Bohernabreena. Some residents had highlighted issues of anti-social behaviour, and I just wanted to get an idea of the figures, Ms Mannion said. My concern was about what happens when things are reported. Ive spoken to council tenants who highlighted that they had brought up concerns, but nothing had changed. I was wondering what processes the council was utilising. SDCC has protocols in place like mediation, but I wanted to see if we were actually following through. Last year, a total of 653 complaints were received from SDCC tenants. This compares with 614 in 2023, and 727 in 2022. According to SDCCs anti-social behaviour strategy, grounds for an investigation can include drug use; violent, racist or threatening behaviour; significant noise; the physical condition of the property; and unauthorised occupiers or sub-letting of homes. The council said it had followed an extensive investigative process with the tenants, as outlined by the strategy. Currently, seven applications for possession orders a court order demanding the tenant surrenders their home are with SDCCs Law Department and expected to appear before the courts this year. I have another question for the council looking for further detail on the levels of complaints vs how they were all resolved, Ms Mannion said. I would like further clarification just to understand what sort of response residents have gotten. I have no interest in looking at every breach or to kick people out of their homes and make them homeless. Were trying to look at whether ongoing issues and known problems are being taken seriously. I dont think ignoring it would be helpful. I think its important to help tenants live in peace to the best of our ability. SDCC said a new anti-social/community safety strategy was considered by its Housing Strategic Policy Committee in May and was agreed on by its members in June. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme The White Stork in Lusk is among a number of sightings so far this year. Pic: Paul Lynch A rare white stork has been spotted in Lusk in north Dublin, thrilling birdwatchers and sparking curiosity about why sightings of the species are increasing here. White storks are uncommon in Ireland, with just 36 confirmed records existing between 1846 and 2017. From 2018 to 2024, there were no confirmed wild sightings at all. This year, however, there have been multiple sightings in various parts of the country, including Kerry, Wicklow, Kildare and Donegal, among others. Many of these records likely relate to the same bird or birds turning up in multiple locations, as White Storks have no problem travelling long distances, but at least two were present in Ireland at the same time. BirdWatch Ireland member Paul Lynch captured photos of the stork showing off its elegant white plumage and long red legs perched gracefully on a lamppost in Lusk last Friday, August 8. Niall Hatch, Head of Communications at BirdWatch Ireland, said the white stork was indeed a most unexpected visitor and generated a lot of interest amongst birdwatchers. The individuals that were photographed were all young birds, in their first year of life, he said. Some may have travelled here from the reintroduced population in England, where the species is now breeding. However, its also very possible that some travelled over from Europe: its impossible to know their origins for sure. The white stork has been expanding its range in Europe in recent years, and some of the populations are choosing to spend the winter in Europe, rather than migrate to Africa, as they normally would. White Stork pictured on a lamppost in Lusk. Pic: Paul Lynch This suggests that climate change may be influencing their behaviour, causing them not to bother undergoing the risks of migration on the basis that milder winters in Europe make it viable for them to find enough food and survive. It may be that climate change is also a factor in the birds sudden appearance in Ireland this year, but it is too early to say for certain. It will definitely be very interesting to see if more turn up here next year and in the years after that. Jez Simms, Chairperson of BirdWatch Irelands West Cork Branch, spoke about the recent Lusk sighting, describing the white stork as a majestic bird, pretty big, feeding mainly in fields and open spaces. Theyre shy around humans, and generally theres no risk being around them. Theyre more interested in insects and grasshoppers than people, he said. White storks are tall birds, often reaching up to one metre in height, with long legs, broad wings and striking black-and-white plumage. They are opportunistic feeders, dining on earthworms, insects, frogs and small mammals. They breed in open areas such as river floodplains and grasslands, constructing enormous nests on trees, power poles, ledges, or manmade platforms. The lunches will be provided under a new government programme Pre-schools across Kerry will benefit from a programme providing daily lunches for children at risk of disadvantage. The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, announced that pre-school children at all 27 Early Start services in Kerry will benefit from the Bia Blasta (Delicious Food) programme. Nationally, the programme will aim to provide a nutritious meal to 25,000 children at risk of disadvantage while attending early learning and care services. Mealtimes will be provided within a learning framework that builds childrens experiences of nutritious foods, along with the experience of preparing, sharing and clearing up after meals. All early learning and care and school-age childcare services in Ireland are required to provide meals, with the type and frequency of meals dependent on the number of hours per day a child attends. Bia Blasta represents the first time that dedicated funding is provided for meals for children who only attend the three-hour free pre-school programme. Minister Foley, a Kerry TD, said evidence suggests that giving nutritious lunches to children at risk of disadvantage will combat the risk of hunger and improve their attention levels and overall wellbeing. Bia Blasta is another very positive initiative under the Equal Start model, which is delivering crucial supports to children attending early learning and care and school age childcare at risk of disadvantage, Minister Foley said. My special thanks to all of the dedicated early years educators and school-age childcare practitioners working to deliver this model, she added. A total of 3.2 million is available to deliver the programme in 2025 and another 1 million is being made available up to the end of this year for services participating in Bia Blasta to purchase approved equipment such as a fridge, freezer, dishwasher, hob or oven. Bia Blasta will be provided to all existing Equal Start-funded services in the free, universal two-year preschool Early Childhood Care and Education Programme (ECCE). This is expected to cater for around 15,000 children. In addition to these existing services, the Equal Start Identification Model will be drawn upon to target 1,000 additional ECCE-only services that are serving high numbers of children at risk of disadvantage. This is expected to cater for another 10,000 children. Bia Blasta will be delivered at the following pre-school services in Kerry: Eggs-perimental new venture going down a storm as Valentia Islands first ostriches emerge from their massive eggs Its not every day you hear about two beekeepers turning their hands to hatching ostriches but thats exactly what Paul ONeill and Anton Tovarnitskyi have done as they embark on a new adventure. The creators of The Bee Beds Experience and The Revive Experience in Valentia Island, have just successfully incubated their very first ostrich chicks With no fancy equipment, the two friends successfully hatched ostrich chicks by building their own homemade incubator and, between them, they turned the eggs by hand ten times a day for 40 days. "By day 46, there was still no sign of hatching, so we decided to help. Ostrich shells are incredibly strong, so out came the hammer carefully tapping into the air sac to give the chicks a start. Some found their own way out after that, while others needed a little more help, explained Paul. "We honestly didnt know how it would turn out it was all a bit eggs-perimental but to our delight, we had a surprisingly good success rate. Now, at just a week old, the chicks have moved into a bigger incubator, where were gently lowering the temperature to help them adjust to our beautiful Irish climate. The ostriches are extremely cute and are attracting a lot of attention but they are set to grow very quickly. Ostriches grow at about a foot a month, with females reaching over 6 feet and males sometimes an incredible 9 feet tall. Both Paul and Anton are currently developing plans to create Kerrys very first ostrich farm in Glenbeigh a place where people can learn about these magnificent creatures, feed them, and enjoy a fun, interactive experience for all ages. Anton Tovarnitskyi with the baby Ostrich born in Valentia. Paul ONeill lives on Valentia Island with his family, where he runs Island Organix, growing micro-plants and vegetables and selling honey products from his hives. Anton Tovarnitskyi is Ukrainian refugee who fled the war and found himself on the remote Kerry island. The two became friends and business partners when they set up Ireland's first Bee Beds and now they are hoping to develop another unique experience with their ostrich farm. The Ostrich egg was turned by hand 10 times a day for 40 days in order to hatch Kerry's newest resident. They hope their latest business ideas will bring more visitors to South Kerry just like their Bee Beds project which has allowed visitors and locals relax while listening to bees. "We plan to use their eggs, breed them, and give visitors a chance to meet the largest birds in the world up close, continued Paul. From bees to ostriches, life has taken us on some unexpected adventures but the goal is always the same: to bring joy, connection, and a touch of wonder to everyone who visits. A south Kerry mother has said she is struggling to fund the cost of returning her three children to education this autumn. The single parent works full-time and exeeds the threshold for available grants even though she is in financial disarray. Joan, from Cahersiveen, feels it is no longer paying her to work and that more needs to be done for working parents who are being penalised when it comes to obtaining key supports. She has one child attending college this year, while her other two children are attending secondary and primary. The combined cost is close to 20,500 for the year a figure that is giving her sleepless nights and anxiety. Joan believes she is one of thousands who are willingly working to try and do the best for their families but are being met with financial constrictions. She has questioned whether it is worth her while continuing working but stated its not in me not to work. She feels many people not working are likely feeling less pressure ahead of the new school year because they are entitled to more supports. For Joan, it is the squeezed middle and working poor that face most financial anguish. Even though she is earning a decent enough wage, Joan has accepted the help of Saint Vincent De Paul just to cope with associated education costs. Because of her earnings, she is ineligible for the Back-to-School Allowance and SUSI grant. On top of this, she struggles to source a loan as she lives pay check to pay check which makes saving difficult. She has also been through personal insolvency issues that limit loan credibility. From mid July every year, Joan said anxiety and stress levels increase due to worry about how she will cope. Aside from the free school books scheme, Joan insists there is little else in terms of help available. I cant get any help from the government. I am literally broke and if it wasnt for Saint Vincent De Paul I dont know what I would do, she told The Kerryman. There can be a lot of activities and fundraising by schools during the year and that puts a lot of pressure on hard-pressed parents. I once had school staff call to my door asking to contribute to a school project. I couldnt afford this and it made me feel terrible. Schools can sometimes be bullish in their way when looking for money, she added. Joan is not blaming schools entirely and insists there can be better coordination between them and government. She feels the government is taking a lot of work away from the parents and placing in on the school and teachers. I wouldnt put the blame 100 per cent on either one. But I do think the government has tried to do huge work for parents. The free books, especially. I just get so upset sometimes when full-time educational supports are given to people who dont work and theyre expected to be role models for their children, she said. Whereas I am a full-time working mother. I, at least, can say Im a role model for my child but I dont get any support. I dont get anyone clapping me on the back and saying well done for that. There is no source of help for working parents who are struggling. "I dont think the people struggling the most with back-to-school are those not working. There is nothing there for the likes of me who is working. Its not right. I dont know how Im going to afford this year. I just dont, Joan added. Belmullet Tidal Pool temporarily closes to allow sprats to return to their natural habitat A small species of fish has caused the closure of a popular outdoor swimming pool in Belmullet. Belmullet Tidal Pool announced on its social media that the pool would be closed for a few hours after sprat were discovered in the pool. The pool needs to be emptied to release the sprat back into their natural environment, said Belmullet Tidal Pool, who said the pool would refill with the tide later this evening. Built in 1984, this unique outdoor swimming pool sits in the Atlantic Ocean in Blacksod Bay along the Shore Road. It is approximately 20 metres long and has a shallow section for children and a deep section for more experienced swimmers. While it attracts large numbers of users during fine weather, the tidal pool is a popular amenity all year round and is used by swimming groups and for swimming lessons. Michelle Healy, secretary of Belmullet Swimming Club, told the Irish Independent that sprat have entered the tidal pool on a number of occasions in the past around this time of year. She explained that the good weather, high tides and spawning season cause mackerel to chase the sprat closer to the shore and into the pool. Work at restoring pathways at Gibraltar have been completed in phase one. Minister of State Marian Harkin with Minister for Rural and Community Affairs, Dara Calleary and Deputy Frank Feighan at the Warren Way Trail near Enniscrone. Nine outdoor recreational facilities in Sligo will receive funding totalling 353,931 to improve facilities including funding for phase two of the restoration of Gibraltar swimming pool. Deputy Frank Feighan said the funding directly supported the ambition of the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy Embracing Irelands Outdoors. The successful projects include: Pre-works studies for Sligo County Council to proceed with the statutory approval process for Phase 2 of Gibraltar Rocks Swimming Pool restoration - 50,000 Studies and designs to enable the upgrading and expansion of existing outdoor recreation facilities at Lough Gara 45,000 Upgrade works phase 2 to ensure inclusivity and equal access for all abilities by upgrading the infrastructure at The Gleniff Barytes Millsite 18,931 Upgrading of existing Curry outdoor swimming pool dressing shelters 40,000 To improve public access to the summit of Muckelty Hill trail with the introduction of steps, trail seating and furniture - 40,000 Upgrading of Queen Maeve Trail parking and trailhead facilities at Rathcarrick to include surfacing, landscaping, and trail furniture 40,000 Revamping and updating of the Sligowalks.ie website 40,000. The Warren Way renovation project entails surfacing of the trailhead and trail resurfacing 40,000 Essential maintenance work on outdoor recreation sites along Yeats Trail 40,000. Deputy Feighan said: When projects are delivered, this funding will provide a major boost to the local economy by attracting visitors and furthering our reputation as a destination for adventure tourism. This new funding is going to make a big difference for outdoor amenities in Sligo making them even better for local families and visitors alike. Its so important to get out and make the most of what our outdoors has to offer. I want to thank the community groups across County Sligo who work so hard to develop and enhance recreational amenities in our local community, and work on developing detailed applications. In conclusion I wish to acknowledge the assistance of Minister Dara Callery who allowed me the opportunity to support a number of the projects. These amenities are here for us all to enjoy. I really encourage everyone to get out there and enjoy the incredible outdoor spaces our region has to offer. Minister Marian Harkin joined Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, at the Warren Way Trail near Enniscrone to welcome the the announcement of over 1.3 million in funding for 33 outdoor recreation projects across Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal. During the visit, Minister Calleary announced a nationwide package of 8.7 million . I was delighted to join Minister Calleary at the Warren Way Trail to welcome this significant investment in the region. The funding will enhance some of the best-loved trails and amenities while also creating new opportunities for people to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal," Minister Harkin said. Events run from August 1624 celebrating Sligos built, natural and cultural heritage At the launch of Heritage Week 2025 in Sligo were (L to R) Martin Lydon (Chief Executive, SCC), Wendy Lyons (Vice-Chair, County Sligo Heritage Forum), Cllr. Donal Gilroy (Cathaoirleach, Sligo County Council and Chair of County Sligo Heritage Forum) and Siobhan Ryan (A/Senior Heritage Officer, SCC). Photo Carl Brennan. More than 60 events are to be held across County Sligo as part of National Heritage Week 2025. The initiative begins on Saturday, 16th August and will run until Sunday, August 24 and most are free. A colourful range of events and projects celebrating all aspects of the countys built, natural and cultural herita ge will take place across the county. Launching National Heritage Week in Sligo, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council and Chair of County Sligo Heritage Forum, Cllr. Donal Gilroy outlined: This years theme is Exploring Our Foundations, and everyone is encouraged to explore our heritage and to examine the foundations upon which our communities, cultures and landscapes are built. Theres an impressive programme of events taking place across the county organised by heritage organisations, community groups and individuals many on a voluntary basis. Its their commitment, dedication and effort that makes Heritage Week in County Sligo such a great success. Heritage Week is coordinated nationally by The Heritage Council in partnership with the Local Authority Heritage Teams and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. National Heritage Week has become one of Irelands largest cultural events, celebrating Irelands built, natural and cultural heritage and aiming to generate awareness, appreciation and preservation of our wonderful heritage resource. The theme for National Heritage Week this year is Exploring Our Foundations, which invites everyone to delve into the building blocks of the countrys heritage; not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped people. Heritage Week invites everyone to explore the links between people and communities, to look at what brings everyone together and what connects everyone. There are also themed days as part of the week. Wild Child Day takes place on Saturday, August 23 and encourages children and families to make the most of the outdoors to enjoy and explore the heritage and biodiversity in their locality. Water Heritage Day takes place on Sunday, August 24 and celebrates Irelands water, the connections with it and how history and heritage has been shaped by the sea, rivers, lakes and wetlands. Siobhan Ryan, A/Senior Heritage Officer with Sligo County Council added: We are encouraging everyone to get involved and to support the efforts of the many individuals and groups who have organised events for National Heritage Week in Sligo. Heritage Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate and share the best of the built, natural and cultural heritage of our county, whether it is attending a talk, going for a guided walk or visiting a local heritage site. This is just the beginning though. As most of the heritage sites celebrated during Heritage Week are open all year-round. The museums of the county, many built heritage sites and wildlife areas are all there to be explored at any time. Updates and details of Heritage Week events taking place in Sligo and nationally are available on www.heritageweek.ie. While regular Heritage Week updates for Sligo will be posted on the Sligo Heritage Office Facebook page. A stolen car allegedly burst onto the banks of a river and was set on fire in Wexford, ending the Fleadh celebrations with a bang. A resident living in the area of Borrmount manor said that they initially noticed the blaze around 1.30 a.m. in the early hours of Monday, August 11. Upon further investigation they saw that a car had broken through a gate and onto the banks of the River Slaney and was on fire next to the main train line that connects Enniscorthy with Wexford town. Neighbours quickly alerted the Emergency Services who arrived quickly with An Garda Siochana in tow who put out the blaze and towed the car from the bank once it was safe. They were told that the car had been stolen a number of days prior in Kildare and had been intentionally set on fire. Furthermore, the residents expressed concern over safety as they believed that the car had been driven on the train tracks. "It could have been a really dangerous situation. With the late night trains for the Fleadh, the returning train would return around that time of night for service the next morning I can hear it from my house every night, they added. However, although a Garda representative confirmed that they attended the scene and the crime unit are currently investigating the incident, they do not believe it was driven on the tracks, but still took precautions. "Irish Rail were immediately contacted and there was no trains on the line and all trains form either direction were stopped till tracks were checked, they said. Damian Doyle retired as Carnews GP in 2018, freeing himself to devote his time to curate his grandfathers photos and to take his own pictures too Ive stuck my head in so many scanners, its a wonder I dont glow in the dark! The doctor who attended to the health of folk around Carnew for decades is having a personal diagnosis problem. Damian Doyles walk has slowed to a shuffle. He fitted in his meeting with me while waiting to try his luck at yet another clinic in Dublin in the effort to work out what has gone wrong. If the impending appointment was playing on his mind, the genial moustachioed medic showed little sign of nervousness, exuding his customary jovial humour. A total of 66 projects across Ireland have been approved for funding as part of the 2025 Communicating Europe Initiative Photo: Reuters Gaelscoil Inbhear Mhor in Arklow has been allocated a government grant worth 6,000 to promote understanding of the European Union. A total of 66 projects across Ireland have been approved for funding as part of the 2025 Communicating Europe Initiative, with a combined allocation of 345,500. The initiative supports voluntary organisations, educational bodies, civil society groups and Local Authorities in raising awareness about the European Union and the role Ireland plays within the bloc. Public engagement with EU issues is also promoted through a wide range of events, educational activities and outreach campaigns. This year, the funding available has been increased, amounting to 250,000 for civil society and voluntary bodies, and 150,000 for local authorities. An independent evaluation committee, comprising officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the European Commission Representation in Ireland, and the European Parliament Liaison Office, met earlier this year to review and assess the applications. A total of 59 projects from civil society and voluntary organisations have been approved, along with 7 projects from Local Authorities. In some cases, funding was approved at a reduced level based on the Committees assessment. A reserve remains available to support additional initiatives that may arise during the remainder of 2025. Wicklow-Wexford TD Malcom Byrne has welcomed the funding allocation and said Ireland has benefitted from our membership of the European Union. From making it easier to travel or to do business across Europe, we have really gained as a country. But many people feel that they dont fully understand the work of the EU. The Communicating Europe initiative is a great opportunity, and I pleased that Gaelscoil Inbhear Mhor is included in the latest round. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme A Wicklow man pleaded guilty to multiple charges before Bray District Court A Wicklow man has pleaded guilty to multiple charges before Bray District Court following an incident at his home, during which it is alleged he shouted abuse at gardai. Martin OBrien of 5 Cooldross Close, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow was charged with two offenses for intoxication in a public place and engaging in abusive or insulting behaviour on June 9, 2025, at 5 Cooldross Close, Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow. The court heard An Garda Siochana responded to reports of a domestic dispute but instead they observed OBrien stumbling across the street. When confronted OBrien had a strong smell of alcohol and began to shout get the f**k out of my estate or I will kill your family at gardai. OBriens solicitor told the court that his client had been involved in a serious road traffic collision and had sustained a serious brain injury, which left him taking ten different types of medication daily. He had letters from OBriens GP and from Brain Injury Ireland to attest to the severity of his injury. OBrien told the court he was ashamed and embarrassed, he has previously worked as a labourer and is only recently married. OBriens solicitor added that his actions were not his general demeanour. OBrien is already serving a four-year driving ban and previously had a sentence suspended for three months. The judge decided not to enforce his suspended sentence due to the accuseds brain injury and found him guilty under Probation Act Section 1.1. Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme This article was amended on Thursday August 14 at 11.34pm to correct the spelling of the defendants surname. Sr Mary Moylan of the Columban Sisters, who served 50 years of missionary service in Asia, was laid to rest on Thursday, July 24, with her funeral mass taking place at the convent chapel in Magheramore, Co Wicklow, followed by her burial in the convent cemetery. Sr Kathleen Coyle shared some of her memories of Sr Mary during the homily she delivered at the funeral, describing how Mary loved to relax and sing, and was always keen to play her favourite tunes if there was a piano close at hand. Marys life had been one of commitment and service to family and friends and to her missionary calling. Her mother died when she was young and she had begun studies in University College Galway. Being the eldest in the family she took time off from college to look after them all. Some years later, having graduated from college she took a teaching post with the Dominicans in Galway but she continued to return home to Loughrea at the weekends to look after the family and the management of their family business. In October 1959 Mary came to Magheramore, Co Wicklow, and entered the novitiate. After her profession in 1962 she was assigned to Olongapo City, Philippines, from 1963 1969. At that time Olongapo was a city like no other. There was an American naval base there with all the challenges that that presented. St. Columbans College was a peaceful oasis in the midst of this confusion and upheaval. As the college dean Mary felt a great responsibility for the faculty and students. She was very concerned about the influence of the citys environment on the students. She reminded the faculty that they had a special commitment to care for and guide the students through the many challenges that they found themselves in. To unite the pastoral with the academic, she set up short weekend programs for business men. They met in the college at weekends and reflected on ways to offer new life to the city. Because of the relatively large number of deaf students in the city she set up a special program for them. She invited students from the only deaf college in the United States to come and spend a month in Olongapo with the citys deaf students, as a support to help build up their courage and confidence. After a six-year term of mission in Olongapo Mary took a break and enrolled in a graduate course in the United States. On her return from studies Mary was re-assigned to Olongapo from 1971 1977. The Vietnam War was raging until 1975 and war planes scooped over the college as they prepared to land in Subic. Classes were often disrupted by the constant noise. Mary, as dean representing the college, visited the Admiral in his office on the base. He offered to air condition the classrooms but he said the planes would continue to land. And they did. In 2011, after 50 years of Columban missionary service in Asia she was assigned to Magheramore, where she continued to remain active until eventually, she needed nursing home care. Mary is predeceased by her parents Peter and Anne, beloved sister of the late Bernard, Thomas, Anne, Peter and Theresa (Sweeney). Dearly loved by her late sister-in-law Breda, late brother-in-law James, nieces, nephews, in-laws, grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins, extended family and a wide circle of friends and Columban Sisters worldwide. Colombians bid farewell yesterday 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 on Monday in the hospital where he had been since the June 7 shooting. Thousands of mourners paid their respects on Tuesday. Trump says he thinks Putin is ready to make deal for peace in Ukraine American and Russian leaders are are set to meet on Friday in Alaska at 8.30pm Irish time Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, in 2019. Photo: AP Nandita Bose, Dmitry Antonov and Olena Harmash Reuters Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 22:45 US president Donald Trump said he believes his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is ready to end his war in Ukraine, speaking on the eve of todays summit between the men, but that peace would likely require at least a second meeting involving Ukraines leader. Israel guns down at least 25 Palestinians who were seeking aid Israels plans to widen its offensive against Hamas have sparked condemnation Palestinians, displaced by the Israeli offensive, rest outside their tent where they shelter on a beach amid summer heat in Gaza City. Photo: Reuters Melanie Lidman and Samy Magdy in Tel Aviv Associated Press Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid in Gaza yesterday, health officials and witnesses said, while prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel will allow Palestinians to leave during an upcoming military offensive in some of the territorys most populated areas. Israel's Bezalel Smotrich announces West Bank settlement plan to 'bury' idea of Palestinian state Minister says Netanyahu and Trump back the planPalestinians fear settlements will rob them of stateConstruction was frozen in Maale Adumim after outcry Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and a woman hold a map that shows the long-frozen E1 settlement scheme, that would split East Jerusalem from the occupied West Bank. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun. Rami Amichay Reuters Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 13:47 Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said work would start on a long-delayed settlement that would divide the West Bank and cut if off from East Jerusalem, a move his office declared would "bury" the idea of a Palestinian state. Nicholas Rossi was found guilty of sexual assault at his first trial in Utah (Firecrest Films/AP) A Rhode Island man accused of faking his death and fleeing the United States to evade rape charges was found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend in his first of two Utah trials. Experts say US plans for lunar nuclear reactor are cock-eyed Nasa aims to have the reactor ready for launch by the early 2030s, but little progress has been made A nuclear reactor on the moon's surface could power future missions to Mars. Photo: Nasa Julia Musto UK Independent Thu 14 Aug 2025 at 06:30 Fast-tracking a Nasa plan to build a nuclear reactor on the moon may sound dubious. Experts say thats because it is. Since 1963, The Independent has helped create a great community! Since our founding in September of 1963, The Independent has been dedicated to giving Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, and Sunol readers the news they need to be in-the-know about what's going on in the Tri-Valley region. India to Expedite Visa Process for Chinese Technicians Amid Industrial Concerns India is finalizing measures to expedite the visa process for Chinese technicians in response to concerns from several companies. These companies argue that the central governments restrictions on granting visas to Chinese technicians are undermining the nations industrial aspirations. In June 2024, it was reported that New Delhi is considering extending visa relaxations to meet the needs of domestic manufacturing facilities that are installing Chinese machinery. However, the new visa regulation guidelines are yet to be officially notified. New visa guidelines for Chinese technicians yet to be finalized Businesses based in India claim that the current visa restrictions are hindering the countrys potential as a manufacturing hub. The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) is collaborating with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs to create a framework that will expedite visas for engineers and technicians required for installing Chinese-made machinery in Indian factories. The objective is to shorten the visa processing time from the current 4-5 months to within 30 days, according to sources familiar with the discussions, who requested anonymity due to the private nature of the talks. Several reports published June 17 noted that India will grant visas under new standard operating procedures (SOPs) to technicians from China for around six months. The time period is considered sufficient for foreign technicians to install the machinery at a facility and train Indian workers in its operations (installation, repair, and use). As per a government official, India is trying to create a better and more streamlined SOP and is hoping to roll it out after receiving clearance from the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for capital goods. The IMC was formed in 2020 to address issues and bottlenecks in the capital goods (CG) sector. It comprises representatives from all relevant Ministries and Departments and meets regularly to discuss and resolve sector-related challenges. Local media have reported that India issued only 2,000 visas to Chinese nationals in 2024, compared to about 200,000 before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. In 2023, India had rolled out updated SOP guidelines aimed at accelerating the visa clearance process for Chinese nationals employed in industries where the government implemented a production-linked incentives program (PLI) to expand domestic industrial capabilities. Nevertheless, delays persisted, and vendors and local manufacturers repeatedly requested simplifying the visa process for Chinese technicians and experts. India first introduced the PLI schemes in 2021 to bolster manufacturing capacity in 14 industries: white goods, food products, drones, advanced chemistry cell batteries, medical devices, white goods, textiles, food products, automobiles, and specialty steel. As of March 2023, the schemes have paid out INR 970 billion (US$11.6 billion) to recipients, with a total budget outlay of INR 19,700 billion (US$23.61 billion). Geopolitical tensions create barrier for Indias manufacturing units During the COVID-19 pandemic, India issued Press Note 3 in April 2020, to amend the Consolidated Foreign Direct Investment Policy of 2017 (the FDI Policy) with a stated view of curbing opportunistic takeovers and/or acquisitions of Indian companies. This meant that all foreign direct investment (FDI) from countries which share a land border with India (the Border Countries) shall be subject to prior approval from the Government (Approval Route). Now, after giving the go-ahead to joint ventures like that between JSW and MG Motor India, the Indian government could approve Chinese companies diluting their stakes in Indian firms. This decision would be reportedly made on a case-by-case basis as managing security concerns is still a top priority for New Delhi. If implemented, Chinese entities like Xiaomi could expand their India operations. Of 450 FDI proposals received from Chinese companies since 2020, the Indian government has only approved 15 percent (around 70 projects); decision is pending on 200 proposals. Those who secured approvals were considered essential, such as for the production of iPhones in India. Relations between India and China have stayed sour ever since soldiers from both sides clashed on the Himalayan border in 2020 and, more recently, when Chinas President Xi Jinping missed the G20 Summit held in New Delhi in September 2023. Upon Prime Minister Narendra Modis re-election, re-appointed Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar reaffirmed New Delhis commitment to finding a solution for the border issues with China. A day later, on June 12, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy published a post on X (formerly, Twitter): #China and India are important neighbouring countries. Relevant border issues should be handled properly. A sound and stable #ChinaIndia relationship is in the interest of both countries, and conducive to the peace and development in this region and beyond. China is willing to work with India to push forward bilateral relations in the right direction. Delay in visa approval process hurting manufacturing capacities of Indian companies in India Companies feel that Indias industrial goals and the significant subsidies provided to manufacturers of electronics, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals are being undermined by the current restriction placed by the central government on China. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has aimed to position the country as an alternative manufacturing hub to China, with companies like Apple Inc. establishing production facilities in the country. Domestic manufacturers have claimed that visa restrictions against China are driving up costs, preventing investments, and diminishing Indian companies standing as trustworthy suppliers. The India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) estimates that the border standoff with China has resulted in a US$15 billion production loss in the sector from 2020-2023 and the loss of 100,000 job opportunities. ICEA chairman Pankaj Mohindroo has emphasized that although the association recognizes Indias security needs, the central governments actions against Chinese firms have deterred many Chinese nationals from traveling to India for business opportunities. Visa approval process Over the years, the visa approval process for Chinese ventures and Chinese expert personnel has become more rigorous as it requires prior approval from the Indian central government. At present, the Ministry of Home Affairs is vetting SOPs for visas for Chinese experts required by manufacturing units beyond PLI sectors in India. While some relaxation might come on visas, the government appears not to be looking at other relaxations on conditions to facilitate Chinese presence in the Indian economy, including investment concessions. Media reports quoting electronics industry executives claim that 4,000 to 5,000 visa applications of Chinese technicians are awaiting central government clearance. These reports also said the restrictions have cost India around US$15 billion in production losses in the past four years. Conditions: Business visa granted to a Chinese/Foreign national 1. Chinese/Foreign National who wish to visit India to establish an industrial/business venture or to explore possibilities to set up industrial/business venture in India. 2. Chinese/Foreign nationals coming to India to purchase/sell industrial products or commercial products or consumer durables. 3. Chinese/Foreign Nationals coming to India for technical meetings/discussions, attending Board meetings, general meetings for providing business services support. 4. Chinese/Foreign Nationals coming to India for recruitment of manpower. 5. Chinese/Foreign Nationals who are partners in the Business and/or functioning as Directors of the company 6. Chinese/Foreign Nationals coming to India for consultations regarding exhibitions or for participation in exhibitions, trade fairs, business fairs, etc. 7. Chinese/Foreign buyers who come to transact business with suppliers/ potential suppliers at locations in India, to evaluate or monitor quality, give specifications, place orders, negotiate further supplies etc., relating to goods or services procured from India. 8. Chinese /Foreign experts & specialists on a visit of short duration in connection with an ongoing project with the objective of monitoring the progress of the work, conducting meetings or to provide technical guidance. 9. Chinese/Foreign Nationals coming to India for pre-sales or post-sales activity not amounting to actual execution of any contract or project. 10. Chinese/Foreign Trainees of multinational companies/corporate houses coming for in-house training in the regional hubs of the concerned company located in India. 11. Chinese/Foreign nationals coming as tour conductors and travel agents and /or conducting business tours of foreigners or business relating to it. Documents required for India Business Visa: Original (or copy) of the dispatch letter from the Company of the applicant Business license of applicants company and its authenticated English translation or CCPIT Registration Certificate of Incorporation A letter of request from any of the FAOs or SASAC or MFA (or any other duly authorised Chinese organisation) [This is applicable for applicants who are working with State Owned Enterprise (SOE) ] Business Visa Proforma be obtained from Indian Visa Application Centre. Certification of incorporation or registration of the Indian company or PAN of Indian company Itinerary of visit Sponsorship letter issued to the applicant by the Indian company for the grant of Business Visa under any specific schemes of the Government of India. Bank Guarantee Certificate of minimum amount of RMB 1,00,000 or last 6 months of bank statement showing a minimum balance of RMB 1,00,000 Source: Embassy of India, Beijing, China Indias industries rely heavily on Chinese specialists because no other nation can provide the quality experts needed, and the majority of the machinery and components are imported from China. Taiwan, which leads the world in electronics, too, needs to depend on Chinese professionals. Chinese experts permits are also being sought after by Taiwanese technology makers operating in India. Conclusion India must work on relaxing the visa norms for Chinese technicians more swiftly with domestic manufacturers facing challenges such as lack of trust from suppliers and dip in investments from China. Since China continues to be a major source of expertise for Indias manufacturing sectors, streamlining the visa application procedure is essential to sustaining the growth of the countrys industrial sector. This is also particularly important for the success of varied PLI schemes and keeping foreign investment coming into the country. Despite the geopolitical tensions and stringent approval processes that have historically hindered Chinese ventures, the necessity of Chinese specialists remains paramount to Indian industries. While India is committed to fostering a conducive environment for domestic manufacturing, it must navigate complex international relations more carefully. With inputs from Melissa Cyrill. (US$1 = INR 83.44) The article was originally published on June 20, 2024. It was last updated on July 19, 2024. Nobody 2 PEOPLE Sharon Stone makes rare appearance with 3 sons for Nobody 2; heres how she went from 9 miscarriages to being a single mother ( Image credit : Sharon Stone turned the Nobody 2 premiere into a special family night. | Credit: Getty ) How did Sharon become a mom? The actor first became a mother in 2000 when she and her then-husband, Phil Bronstein, adopted Roan. After the couple divorced in 2004, she went on to adopt Laird in 2005 and Quinn in 2006. What happened after her divorce? Stone and Bronstein initially shared joint custody of Roan, who lived primarily with his father during the school year. In 2008, she tried to move him to Los Angeles, but the judge denied her request. On the Table for Two with Bruce Bozzi podcast in 2023, she said losing custody "broke my heart" so badly she ended up in the hospital with irregular heartbeats. Sharon Stone makes rare appearance with 3 sons for Nobody 2; heres how she went from 9 miscarriages to being a single mother ( Image credit : She has also spoken openly about the realities of bringing up three sons on her own. | Credit: Getty ) Still, Stone stayed close to her son. She has also spoken openly about the realities of bringing up three sons on her own. She told PEOPLE in 2018, "When you choose to take on the big adventure of being a single parent, you really dont know what it will be like. You wonder how youre ever going to manage it all. Its a lot. Even with the help were lucky to have, your hair is still falling out in the shower. Its just a lot." About Nobody 2 Nobody 2 is set to arrive in theaters worldwide on August 15, 2025, four years after the release of the original 2021 film. Since the first movie came out during an uncertain, pandemic-affected period for theaters, the sequel has a chance to outperform it at the box office. The original Nobody (2021) is currently available to stream on Peacock . For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Actor Sharon Stone, 67, recently walked the red carpet for thepremiere in Los Angeles on August 11, but she wasnt alone. The Hollywood star was joined by her three sons, Roan Joseph, 25, Laird Vonne, 20, and Quinn Kelly, 19, in what was a rare public appearance for the family.The boys looked happy as they posed for photos with their mom. Speaking to, Stone revealed why this night mattered so much to them. "Theyre huge fans of the movies prequel. It really played an enormous part in why I did the film. They flew in to see this because it's their favorite movie, she said.Stone has also been open about her struggles before and after motherhood, including multiple miscarriages. In 2022, commenting on an Instagram post, she wrote, "I lost nine children by miscarriage. It is no small thing, physically nor emotionally, yet we are made to feel it is something to bear alone and secretly with some kind of sense of failure." Landman Paramount+ The story so far Landman Boomtown What to expect from Taylor Sheridans Landman season 2: release date, new cast and fresh conflicts in West Texas ( Image credit : The makers of Landman have finally given fans something to cheer about. | Credit: IMDb ) Cast old and new What to expect in Season 2 Los Angeles Times What to expect from Taylor Sheridans Landman season 2: release date, new cast and fresh conflicts in West Texas ( Image credit : Season 2 is expected to pick up right where the first left off. | Credit: IMDb ) Season 2 Release and streaming details Filming for Landman Season 2 began in April 2025. The first season is already streaming on Paramount+ , and the new season will follow the same platform with weekly episodes starting November 16. The previous season in the US released a new episode every Sunday, available to stream by 3 a.m. ET / midnight PT. However, the release time for this years season has not been announced yet. Fans of Landman know the wait will be worth it. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. The makers ofhave finally given fans something to cheer about. The Western drama, which was officially greenlit for a second season in March 2025, will return onin November 2025. The show stars Taylor Sheridan, Billy Bob Thornton, Demi Moore, Andy Garcia, and Ali Larter.was inspired by the 2019 Texas Monthly podcastand created by Sheridan. The show follows Tommy Norris (Billy Bob Thornton), who works as a landman for an independent oil rig in West Texas. Life on the job is anything but simple. Tommy faces legal battles, dangerous working conditions, and constant family drama.The first season premiered on November 17, 2024, and quickly became one of the streamer's top original series of all time.Alongside Thornton, the first season featured Demi Moore, Jon Hamm, Andy Garcia, Michelle Randolph, Ali Larter, Kayla Wallace, Paulina Chavez, James Jordan, Mark Collie, and Colm Feore. Season 1 ended with cartel boss Gallino (Garcia) sparing Tommy from a torturous death. Tommys boss, Monty Miller (Jon Hamm), died of a heart attack, leaving the stage open for new conflicts.Season 2 will introduce new faces, including Sam Elliott in an undisclosed role and Stefania Spampinato as Garcias wife.Although the makers haven't released an official synopsis, Billy Bob Thornton told thethat I hope to continue exploring my characters peculiar family dynamics and dive deeper into his new relationship with cartel boss Gallino, who saved him after he was kidnapped and tortured by a local gang.is expected to pick up right where the first left off. Tommy will face more conflicts as oil companies tighten their grip and locals push back. Fans can also expect rising political stakes, legal battles, and difficult ethical choices in the oil fields of West Texas. Sheridan will also continue to explore the intersection of power, money, and human cost, and the new season promises the same gripping drama. The buzz around Lollapalooza India 2026 has officially begun, and if the rumours are true, fans are in for a massive treat. Insider chatter and Reddit claims suggest Billie Eilish and Linkin Park have already signed contracts for headline performances. While the organisers have yet to confirm, the news has set social media on fire, with fans speculating on what could be one of the most diverse and high-energy festival lineups in recent memory. Alongside these global stars, several other big names are reportedly in talks, making the Lollapalooza 2026 edition a highly anticipated event for music lovers in India and beyond. Rumour mill: Billie Eilish and Linkin Park to take centre stage in Lollapalooza 2026? According to insiders in Lollapalooza Indias Reddit subreddit (r/lollapaloozaind), Billie Eilish, fresh off her latest world tour, Hit Me Hard and Soft, could bring her signature mix of haunting vocals and electrifying stage presence to the festival. Billie Eilish, fresh off her latest world tour, Hit Me Hard and Soft, could bring her signature mix of haunting vocals and electrifying stage presence to the festival (Credits: X/@billiesource) Scoopwhoop reported that the seven-time AMA (American Music Awards) winner Linkin Park may co-headline the music festival. The rock bands involvement is equally exciting, marking what could be a rare and emotional live set for the legendary rock band. If confirmed, their inclusion would give Lollapalooza India a unique blend of alternative, pop, rock, and metal energy. Linkin Park may co-headline Lollapalooza 2026 India (Credits: X/@linkinpark) Sharing alleged inside information about Billie and Linkin Parks rumoured sets, one Reddit user wrote, I can confirm the following: Billie Eilish (for headline slot), Linkin Park, M.I.A., Raja Kumari, Raftaar have signed contracts officially. They are negotiating with My Chemical Romance, but the band wants more of a payout, which would affect the festival budget. David Guetta is in talks, but nothing has been signed yet, and again, like MCR, its both a logistical and financial issue. A lot of people have been saying Bruno Mars, but my source has told me that it is false, and they have not reached out. Billie Eilish and Linkin Park to take centre stage in Lollapalooza 2026? (Credits: Reddit) From M.I.A. to My Chemical Romance: Other artists rumoured to feature in the stacked lineup for Lollapalooza 2026 The same leak suggests M.I.A., Raja Kumari, and Raftaar are officially locked in for performances, adding a mix of global hip-hop and desi rap flair. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing with American alt rock/metal band, My Chemical Romance (Credits: X/@rt_yourfavbands) Negotiations are reportedly ongoing with American alt-rock/metal band My Chemical Romance, though budget concerns are creating hurdles. Well-known EDM artist David Guetta is also in talks, but nothing has been signed yet. As for the widely rumoured Bruno Mars, insiders insist theres no truth to his inclusion. A dream come true for music enthusiasts in India If the rumours prove true, Lollapalooza 2026 could mark the first-ever India performances for both Billie Eilish and Linkin Park. For long-time rock and metal fans, Linkin Parks arrival would be a dream come true, fulfilling years of anticipation after speculation that they might come in 2025. Their music shaped an entire generation, and seeing them live in India would be a historic moment. Billie Eilish commands a massive fanbase in India (Credits: X/@billiesource) On the other hand, Gen Z favourite Billie Eilish commands a massive fanbase in the country, with her unique style and chart-topping hits making her one of the most anticipated potential headliners of the festival. Despite the growing excitement, festival organisers have not confirmed any of these names. Lollapalooza India is known for delivering big surprises, so fans will have to wait for the official lineup announcement. Until then, speculation will continue, and if these rumours turn into reality, 2026 might just be Indian music fans biggest year yet. Congress leader and former minister Shashi Tharoor has responded sharply to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's recent remark labelling India as 'a bit recalcitrant' in trade negotiations. Taking to X (formerly called Twitter), Tharoor retorted that it is 'far better to be recalcitrant than tractable, submissive or acquiescent to injustice', emphasising India's right to assert its interests. The remark drew both admiration and mockery online. One user, in a tongue-in-cheek nod to Tharoor's famously ornate vocabulary, replied in a similarly elaborate style, parodying the MP's linguistic flair with a flourish of mock-grandiloquence. And Tharoor's reply to this has now gone viral. Read more... Tharoor, a former global diplomat who recently led a multi-party delegation from India to the US after Operation Sindoor, shared a post on his X that read, "I hear some people are accusing India of being 'recalcitrant'. I say, far better to be recalcitrant than to be tractable, submissive or acquiescent to injustice." Reacting to this, one user humorously wrote, Thats fine, Shashibut what about the abnegation of camaraderie in the egregious enfranchisement that springs from the fatuous grandiloquence of the impecunious and insidious semaphore? I hear some people are accusing India of being recalcitrant. I say, far better to be recalcitrant, than to be tractable, submissive or acquiescent to injustice. Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) August 14, 2025 A look at Shashi Tharoor's response In a rare moment of casual humour, Shashi Tharoor responded to a verbose and overly elaborate comment on his post with a simple, disarming reply: Bhai, aap kya kehna chahte ho? (Brother, what are you trying to say?). His witty comeback left netizens amused, especially given Tharoor's own reputation for highfalutin English. The irony of the situation wasn't lost on users, who praised the MP for his self-aware and humorous response to someone seemingly imitating his famously grandiloquent style. Shashi Tharoor has responded sharply to US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's recent remark | Credit: X | @RoshanKrRaii Netizens react to Shashi Tharoor's reply in Hindi As soon as the video surfaced, it quickly grabbed the attention of netizens; one said, "@grok explain what @sagarcasm said to shashi ji in his own language." "Dear Mr. Shashi, on this occasion, you find yourself ensnared in a most deleterious predicament. Your habitual proclivity for employing abstruse and sesquipedalian vernacular to confound adversaries has, regrettably, culminated in a lamentable misapprehension of the rejoinder," another said. "Looks like my school folks taught me something entirely different by making me speak English." Netizens react to Shashi Tharoor's reply | Credit: X | @ShashiTharoor Bro made Shashi to type in Hindi He said Justice for Sanju Samson in 10 different languages. Now I understand what we Indian English-medium school folks go through while reading your tweets, one said. Petunias journey to international fame is the kind of glow-up story you do not see coming. The two-year-old bald beauty from Eugene, Oregon, just claimed the top spot at the 2025 Worlds Ugliest Dog contest, held at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, California. And yes, her victory came with a cool $5,000 prize, bragging rights for life, and her face immortalised on special-edition Mug Root Beer cans. Hairless bulldog, Petunia, steals the worlds ugliest dog crown | Credit: X/virginRadioLON Petunias journey, from a rescue pup to pageant holder Petunias road to glory was far from glamorous. She was rescued from what insiders described as chaos, a backyard breeder and hoarder situation in Las Vegas. Brought to Oregon by Luvable Dog Rescue, she received essential medical care, including a spay and corrective surgery for an elongated palate, which made breathing a struggle. Despite her rough start, Petunia has been called a gentle soul who adores everyone, dogs, cats, and humans alike. Hairless bulldog, Petunia, steals the worlds ugliest dog crown | Credit: X/virginRadioLON Beating the best (or ugliest) of the best This years competition was no walk in the park. Petunia outshined 10 eccentric challengers, including Little Prince Wonder, an 8-year-old Chinese Crested with high-fashion energy, and Nezumi, a 13-year-old Chihuahua with sass for days. Judges were tasked with celebrating the quirks, wrinkles, and unique beauty of each contestant, because in this arena, imperfection reigns supreme. Hairless bulldog, Petunia, steals the worlds ugliest dog crown | Credit: X/virginRadioLON The ugly crown with a beautiful purpose Running for nearly 50 years, the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest is not just a quirky headline, it is a celebration of rescue animals and a reminder that a pedigree does not define a pets worth. Many competitors are adopted from shelters or saved from puppy mills, making the stage as much about awareness as it is about applause. Petunias win means more than a trophy. Her image will soon pop up on limited-edition Mug Root Beer cans, turning her into a four-legged pop culture icon. She is also set to appear on the Today show, officially cementing her status as the ugly-cute queen of 2025. And as far as we are concerned, that is one crown she wears perfectly, hair or no hair. Independence Day is not just a public holiday; it is a reminder of our nations journey from oppression to liberty. It symbolises the courage of those who stood up against injustice, the vision of leaders who dreamt of a free India, and the unity of citizens who worked together to make that dream a reality. This year, India will mark its 79th Independence Day (Swatantrata Diwas) on Friday, 15 August 2025. This day reminds us of the nations long and determined struggle to break free from the centuries-old rule of the British. It is a moment to remember the countless sacrifices, courage, and unwavering dedication of our brave freedom fighters and national heroes who fought tirelessly for our independence. Independence Day also carries the memory of Indias Partition in 1947, a turning point in history that reshaped the subcontinent. On 15 August 1947, our first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, proudly hoisted the tricolour at the Lahori Gate of the Red Fort in New Delhi, marking the dawn of a new era for an independent India. This Independence Day 2025, let us celebrate the hard-earned freedom we enjoy today, cherish the unity that binds us together, and reaffirm our duty to safeguard the integrity, sovereignty, and progress of our great nation. Here are heartfelt Independence Day wishes, inspirational quotes, uplifting messages, creative Instagram captions, and patriotic WhatsApp status updates you can share with family, friends, and colleagues to spread the spirit of freedom. Patriotic Independence Day Wishes and Messages Wishing you a day filled with pride, unity, and gratitude. Happy Independence Day 2025! Lets remember the sacrifices that brought us this freedom and work to keep it strong. May the courage of our heroes inspire us to build a better tomorrow. Jai Hind! Our freedom is a story written in blood, sweat, and sacrifice - lets honour it always. Wishing you a proud and joyous Independence Day - today we stand tall as one nation. May this day remind us that unity is our greatest strength. Happy Independence Day 2025! Lets light the torch of patriotism and pass it to the next generation. Proud to be part of a nation where dreams take flight. Happy Independence Day! May the spirit of liberty always burn brightly in our hearts. Lets celebrate the day that gave us wings to fly. Happy Independence Day 2025! Wishing you peace, prosperity, and endless pride in our nation. May our tricolour always wave high in the sky of freedom. Jai Hind! Today we celebrate not just our past but our promise to the future. Lets protect our freedom with love, unity, and strength. Happy Independence Day! May this Independence Day 2025 inspire you to dream big for our country. Freedom is our birthright, and today we salute the courage of those who secured it. Wishing you a proud and joyful Independence Day 2025! Lets honour our past, cherish our present, and work for a better future. Happy Independence Day! Freedom is not just a privilege, but a responsibility - lets protect and treasure it. Jai Hind! Saluting the heroes who gave us the priceless gift of freedom. Wishing you a Happy Independence Day 2025! May the spirit of patriotism and unity shine bright in every heart. Happy Independence Day! Inspiring Independence Day Quotes "Satyamev jayate"- Madan Mohan Malviya Sare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara Muhammad Iqbal Vande Mataram Bankim Chandra Chatterjee Unless India stands up to the world, no one will respect us. In this world, fear has no place. Only strength respects strength. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam "The shots that hit me are the last nails to the coffin of the British rule in India." - Lala Lajpat Rai "A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people." - Mahatma Gandhi Freedom of mind is the real freedom." - Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar "At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom." - Jawaharlal Nehru "If yet your blood does not rage, then it is water that flows in your veins. For what is the flush of youth, if it is not of service to the motherland." - Chandra Shekhar Azad Inqlaab Zindabad- Shaheed Bhagat Singh "We end today a period of ill fortune, and India discovers herself again." - Jawaharlal Nehru "The best road to progress is freedom's road." - Mahatma Gandhi Tum Muje Khoon Do, Mai Tumhe Azadi Dunga Subhash Chandra Bose What is the meaning of freedom? It is the right to enjoy the fruits of our labor, to shape our destiny, and to live our own lives in our way, according to our ideals. Subhas Chandra Bose "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it." - Bal Gangadhar Tilak "In attaining our ideals, our means should be as pure as the end"- Dr Rajendra Prasad "Citizenship consists in the service of the country." - Jawaharlal Nehru "Let new India arise out of peasants' cottage, grasping the plough, out of huts, cobbler and sweeper." - Swami Vivekananda One individual may die for an idea, but that idea will, after his death, incarnate itself in a thousand lives. - Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose "Dushman ki goliyon ka hum samna karenge, Azad hee rahein hain, Azad hee rahenge" - Chandra Shekhar Azad "The sword of revlution is sharpened on the whettingstone of ideas"- Bhagat Singh So long as you do not achieve social liberty, whatever freedom is provided by the law is of no avail to you. B.R. Ambedkar We have believed, and we do believe now that freedom is indivisible, that peace is indivisible, that economic prosperity is indivisible. - Indira Gandhi Sarfaroshi ki tamanna ab hamare dil me hai, dekhna hai zor kitna baazu-e-qaatil me hai Ramprasad Bismil You give me your blood and I will give you Independence! - Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose It is easy to kill individuals, but you cannot kill the ideas. Great empires crumbled, while the ideas survived. - Bhagat Singh Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country. - Jawaharlal Nehru Independence Day Instagram Captions Born to be free, proud to be Indian Tricolour dreams and patriotic beams Unity in our hearts, freedom in our soul Our freedom story is my favourite chapter Painted in the colours of the tricolour Standing tall, standing proud - Happy Independence Day! Liberty looks good on us Patriotic vibes only Saluting the past, embracing the future Keeping the spirit of freedom alive When the flag rises, so does my pride Proud to wear my patriotism on my sleeve Courage, unity, freedom - thats my India Born under the tricolour, living for the tricolour Keeping the flame of independence burning bright Proud to be an Indian - now and forever. Tricolour vibes and patriotic pride. Freedom looks good on us. Together for a stronger, brighter India. Born free, live proud. WhatsApp Status Ideas for Independence Day 2025 Freedom is priceless - protect it always. Saluting the tricolour, saluting the heroes. Today we celebrate courage, unity, and hope. United we stand, proud we feel. Independence is the heartbeat of our nation. WhatsApp Status Ideas for Independence Day 2025 Freedom is the song my heart sings today Saluting every hero who gave us this priceless gift Our freedom is precious - lets protect it together Today, every beat of my heart says Jai Hind! Flying the tricolour high with pride Freedom is not free - its earned The story of our freedom inspires my every step A proud citizen of a proud nation Patriotism is my favourite feeling Every sunrise in free India is a blessing Saluting the courage that shaped our destiny Freedom is a responsibility, not just a right Our unity is our weapon, our pride is our shield India, my heart beats for you May the tricolour always guide us towards peace and progress Happy Independence Day images, cards, photos, posters, gifs to share Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Happy Independence Day 2025 Images, Quotes, Cards, Greetings, Pictures And GIFs To Share On 15 August Independence Day drawing ideas | Credit: YT/Dharitri Art Independence Day drawing ideas | Credit: YT/Colour of art Independence Day drawing ideas | Credit: YT/Chitraart academy Celebrating Independence Day in 2025 From flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural programmes to sharing digital greetings, Independence Day 2025 will be celebrated with enthusiasm across the country and among Indians living abroad. Whether its watching the Prime Ministers speech from the Red Fort, singing patriotic songs, or simply sharing wishes, quotes, status, and captions on social media, the day is an opportunity to express pride in our nation. As we celebrate, let us remember - freedom is not free. It comes with the responsibility of being active, aware, and compassionate citizens who work towards the unity, equality, and prosperity of India. Independence Day 2025 is more than just a date - it is a celebration of our identity as a free people. Lets take this occasion to express gratitude for our independence, honour the heroes who secured it, and pledge to keep our country strong, just, and united. Happy Independence Day 2025! Jai Hind! Rachel Brosnahans husband, Jason Ralph, has set social media abuzz with an Instagram activity, which has led to speculations of marriage trouble for the couple. Fans noticed that Ralph liked a particularly shady comment about his wifes chemistry with her Superman co-star David Corenswetand the internet went wild. The comment suggested Brosnahans on-screen connection with Corenswet was so strong that it might even eclipse her marriage, and Ralphs interaction immediately fuelled speculation. It all started with a squashed banana The drama traces back to June 2, 2025, when Ralph shared what seemed like a harmless photo of a squashed banana. Comments were enabled, and fans recently spotted a screenshot on Reddit showing that Ralph had liked a comment criticizing Brosnahans chemistry with Corenswet. The comment read: 'Its genuinely sad to see your career being tucked out to be remembered as a cuckold because your wife couldnt handle herself with her co-actor.' Like, bro lets have some self-love and stand up for yourself man, leave her to be with him if she wants that much at the end of the day." Instagram comment that started the drama | Credit: Reddit Reddit weighs in on the controversy Once the screenshot circulated, Reddit erupted with speculations. Some suggested the like might hint at tension in the couples nearly decade-long marriage, while others laughed at the bizarre situation, reasoning it could very well be a sarcastic jibe. One user said, "I would not put much stock into this, and it could just be sarcasm. Someone also recently wrote a disgusting comment about Rachel's breasts on either Vanity Fair or The Hollywood Reporter IGs, and Jason told the guy to watch himself. Guy responded with typical incel nonsense once he realised Jason is Rachel's husband. People are such children with seeing actors have chemistry and say the dumbest shit. A million gifs of crying Peter Parker for any Challengers clips. People are also saying pretty terrible things on David's wife Julia's IG too." Another user had a different take: "Interesting timing with the recent release of behind-the-scenes footage of David and Rachel being very close. For everyones sake (including their spouses), I hope its all just rumours with no standing." One Redditor stated, "Thats so obviously a joke or sarcastic?" Her most recent non-PR Instagram post was about their dog passing away, with a photo of him and the dog, all typed in "we". Thats much more intimate than whatever she's been doing for press." Meanwhile, a fourth mentioned, "YIKES. Jason was really cute on The Magicians and had a pivotal recurring role with Rachel in the final seasons of The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel. He always looks so lovingly at her on the red carpet, but it's also true she's on a meteoric rise lately, while he hasn't done a whole lot of visible work in the past few years. :/ I am really hoping he liked that comment accidentally." Check out more comments in the Reddit thread below: Rachel Brosnahans on-screen chemistry with David Corenswet The Superman duo had tongues wagging thanks to their undeniable chemistry during the press tour. While such antics arent unusual for promoting a movie, their rumoured closeness sparked a social media debate over how far actorsespecially married onesshould go to sell a film. Rachel and David during Superman press tour | Credit: X/@PopBase Brosnahan is known for her natural chemistry with co-starsLuke Kirby in The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel, Oscar Isaac on Broadway, and now Corenswet in Superman. It could very well be her professional ethics and a hallmark of her talent, not a reflection of her private life; however, when has that stopped the interent from speculating? For the unversed, Ralph and Brosnahan met on the set of Im Obsessed With You in 2013, started dating in 2015, and secretly married in 2016. Their relationship has largely stayed out of the spotlight, making this Instagram moment all the more sensational. For context, Corenswet has been married to Julia Warner since 2023 and is a father. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. From the addictive music of K-pop to the dramatic highs and lows of K-dramas, and from the soaring pride of Independence Day, India and South Korea share cross-border passions. On August 15, 2025, as India raises its tricolor to commemorate 79 years of hard-won freedom, South Korea will commemorate Gwangbokjeol, the day they recaptured their motherland after decades of occupation. India and South Korea Independence Day. Credit: X Though separated by oceans, both countries celebrate tenacity, triumph, and the enduring power of culture to bind people across continents. While India remembers the triumph over centuries of colonial rule, South Korea honours the reclaiming of its land after 35 years under foreign domination. August 15 binds them, a reminder that freedom, pride, and resilience are universal, even if the stories are told in different languages. Family, tradition, and social bonds Across India and South Korea, the family remains the foundation of society. Both cultures place a premium on strong family ties, respect for elders, and conventional gender roles in which men provide and women maintain the household, albeit these are gradually altering. Festivals in both countries reflect this emphasis on family; from Diwali in India to Chuseok in Korea, celebrations are centered on reunion, gratitude, and shared heritage. Diwali is celebrated in India while Chuseok in South Korea. Credit: X|Joahbox.com. & Rafiq Maqbool/AP A shared love for music and pop culture While Bollywood dominates the Indian musical landscape, the Korean wave has also had a significant impact. Similarly, Indian music and movies have gained popularity in South Korea. K-pop's catchy rhythms, stunning performances, and colorful aesthetics have captivated Indian audiences. From joining fan clubs to learning Korean, Indian audiences have embraced this worldwide phenomenon to the point where the world's largest group, BTS' agency, HYBE, is building an office in Mumbai, reinforcing K-pop's presence in the country. remember when jungkook was vibing and singing to "nattu nattu " on one of his lives pic.twitter.com/t5hTQ4JDN8 (@archivekukk) July 13, 2025 Culinary and cultural echoes India and Korea also share a fascination with flavors and fermentation. While kimchi reigns in Korea, pickles hold a similar place in Indian cuisine. Both nations boast rich, spice-laden dishes that celebrate local ingredients and culinary heritage. While Kimchi reigns in Korea, pickles hold a similar place in Indian cuisine. Credit: X Traditional architecture, with its focus on courtyards and overhangs, represents a common concept of climate and community space. Historical dramas in film and television also address socioeconomic structures and cultural pride, repeating each other's storytelling traditions. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Love Island Season 7 reunion: The Love Island reunion is set to bring fans an exciting mix of drama, romance, and behind-the-scenes stories as the islanders come together once again. Filled with laughs, surprises, and memorable moments, this special episode is a treat for longtime viewers and newcomers alike. Heres everything you need to know about its air date and how to stream the reunion online worldwide. Where to watch Love Island USA Season 7 reunion? Love Island USA Season 7 reunion will be released on Peacock. Love Island USA Season 7 Reunion global release schedule Pacific Time (PT): Sunday, August 25 6:00 PM Eastern Time (ET): Sunday, August 25 9:00 PM British Summer Time (BST): Monday, August 26 2:00 AM Central European Summer Time (CEST): Monday, August 26 3:00 AM Indian Standard Time (IST): Monday, August 26 6:30 AM Philippine Time (PHT): Monday, August 26 10:00 AM Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): Monday, August 26 12:00 PM Who will host the Love Island reunion? Love Island USA host Ariana Madix will be joined by Andy Cohen, host of Watch What Happens Live, for the reunion. Love Island Season 7 shoot | Credit: X Who won Love Island Season 7 reunion? Love Island Season 7 was won by Bryan Arenales and Amaya Espinal. What to expect from the reunion? Social media is buzzing with videos showing Love Island USA Season 7 couples arriving at the reunion. Clips feature Ace and Chelley, Nic and Olandria, Taylor and Clarke, and Iris and Pepe making their way into the venue. TMZ also captured sightings of other contestants, including Charlie, Jeremiah, and Austin. Meanwhile, winners Amaya and Bryan were seen walking hand-in-hand, sparking fresh fan speculation about whether their relationship is still going strong. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Art, in its purest form, holds the incredible ability to uplift, to heal, and to inspire, but also, in rare and tragic circumstances, to haunt and warp reality for vulnerable individuals. We often celebrate animes capacity to spark joy, ignite creativity, and forge communities. Yet, when a fractured mind misinterprets fiction as a judgemental force, arts influence can twist into something destructive, as seen in a recent incident from Indonesia where a man killed his wife and two kids and blamed it on the beloved anime One Piece. Tragic family slaying shocks village According to Anime Senpai, a remote community in Berau Regency, East Kalimantan, on August 10, 2025, local police arrested 33-year-old Julius after a horrifying crime: the machete murder of his wife and two young children, aged roughly 5 and 4. The peaceful village of Kampung Punan Mahakam was stunned by this devastating act that left families shattered and neighbours reeling. 'One Piece scolded me,' the man claimed Man cites One Piece as the reason behind killing wife, kids | Credit: Netflix During questioning, Julius stunned investigators by claiming the reason for the murders was rooted in his experience of watching the anime One Piece. He stated plainly, Because of One Piece I did not fulfil the living requirements of One Piece. I was scolded by One Piece. When asked directly if that was why he killed his family, he confirmed, Yes. Though disturbing and bizarre, authorities are investigating whether this reflects a deeper psychological disturbance rather than any direct influence of the anime itself. Suspect says anime was his 'judge' In one chilling moment, Julius explained that he felt One Piece had judged him. He believed he failed to meet certain unwritten requirements set by the shows narrative or charactersand that he was then reprimanded through his own failing. His words paint a desperate inner struggle in which a fictional story was wrongly imbued with the power to condemn, to shame, and to justify horrific action. Police say anime is not to be blamed; stress mental health woes Police say anime won't be charged | Credit: Anime Senpai Despite the shock of Juliuss statements, police investigators have emphasised that One Piece bears no blame for the crime. AKP Ngatijan, spokesperson for Berau police, stressed that this appears to be a case of domestic violence intertwined with mental illness rather than media influence. Investigators are collaborating with psychiatric experts and conducting forensic analysis while Julius undergoes evaluation at RSUD Abdul Rivai Hospital to determine his mental fitness. What One Piece truly is and isn't One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda since 1997, is a beloved global anime and manga phenomenon, celebrated for themes of friendship, perseverance, and adventure. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy and his crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, on their daring quest to find the legendary treasure known as "One Piece" and claim the title of King of the Pirates. Their journey takes them across a vast and unpredictable world, brimming with rival pirates, relentless marines, and countless unique islands. Along the way, the series celebrates powerful themes of loyalty, chasing dreams, and fighting for justice. The anime is not a moral codebook or a vessel for supernatural judgement. In this case, police caution that Juliuss claims likely reflect a psychotic breaka misinterpretation of narrative as reality and fiction as a cruel arbiter. This tragedy illustrates how, in moments of profound mental distress, art can be maligned inside a troubled mindtwisted from comfort and meaning into internal torment. It is a stark reminder that the real issue lies not with beloved stories shared around the world, but with fractured psyches crying out for help. Anthony Mackie, known for taking up the mantle of Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently made headlines for a different kind of role: romance. While on a break from filming Avengers: Doomsday in London, the actor was spotted in Notting Hill sharing an intimate moment with an unidentified blonde woman. Fans and onlookers were surprised to see Mackie in a rare public display of affection, sparking curiosity about the woman and the nature of their relationship. Anthony Mackie surprises fans with an intimate moment in Notting Hill. According to TMZ, witnesses described seeing Anthony Mackie and the woman embracing and exchanging smiles in the middle of the street, seemingly lost in the moment. At one point, Mackie gently placed a hand on the womans dress, making it clear that the pair were enjoying each others company. The chemistry was obvious, but whether this marks the beginning of a budding romance or a casual outing remains a mystery. Marvel actor Anthony Mackie was seen sharing a passionate kiss with a mystery woman (Credits: X/@FearedBuck) Marvel career and recent work of Anthony Mackie Anthony Mackie has solidified his place in the MCU as Sam Wilson, receiving praise for his fresh take on the iconic Captain America role. He is set to reprise this character in Avengers: Doomsday. Beyond Marvel, Mackie starred in the 2024 sci-fi thriller Elevation and lent his voice to projects like The Electric State and Sneaks. Anthony Mackie has solidified his place in the MCU as Sam Wilson (Credits: Marvel Studios) Upcoming work includes the historical drama Desert Warrior and the Apple TV+ series 12 12 12. These projects highlight his versatility and continued prominence in the industry Anthony Mackie's dating timeline Mackie married Sheletta Chapital in 2014 but divorced in 2018. Since then, the actor has largely kept his personal life private, rarely giving fans a glimpse of his romantic relationships. Previous interviews suggest balancing romance with a demanding career can be tricky, making this recent sighting all the more intriguing for fans. Anthony Mackie kiss sparks fan reactions on social media Photos of the London encounter quickly went viral, generating speculation and excitement online. Fans flooded social media with comments, memes, and guesses about the identity of the mystery woman. Anthony Mackie said Bucky Barnes aint the only Winter Soldier out here pic.twitter.com/hfTuLRC7ry Anime Explained (@NarutoExplained) August 13, 2025 Women as soon as they see Anthony Mackie kissing that other woman pic.twitter.com/dHSLJ6Safm Van (@vanman_1000) August 13, 2025 Some highlighted Mackies happiness and comfort in the public eye, while others questioned whether this is a serious relationship or a fleeting moment. The sighting has reignited interest in Mackies love life and personal choices. President Droupadi Murmu, in her address to the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, described Operation Sindoor as a defining example of Indias resolve against terrorism and a demonstration of its growing defence self-reliance. The operation was launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. "Must not forget pain inflicted by Partition, terrible violence was witnessed": President Murmu addresses nation on Independence Day eve Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/i1CdEpXvjR#PresidentMurmu #Partition #IndependenceDay pic.twitter.com/yhd5ZzERQE ANI Digital (@ani_digital) August 14, 2025 Pahalgam attack and Indias response President Murmu termed the Pahalgam attack, which targeted innocent citizens, as cowardly and utterly inhuman. She said Indias response through Operation Sindoor was decisive and carried out with unity, sending a clear message that the country will not be an aggressor but will not hesitate to defend its people. Details of Operation Sindoor Operation Sindoor began on May 7 as a swift military response to the attack. It involved precision strikes on nine terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, neutralising over 100 terrorists. India successfully defended against Pakistans missile and drone retaliation and conducted further strikes on its air bases. The operation also highlighted Indias indigenous defence technology, with systems like the Akash and BrahMos missiles playing key roles. President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the four constitutional pillarsjustice, liberty, equality, and fraternityas rediscovered during the Freedom Struggle, rooted in human dignity. She stressed equal access to healthcare, education, and opportunity, especially for the pic.twitter.com/HreUM2vvTV Industry Odisha (@industryodishaa) August 14, 2025 A test case for Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence President Murmu called the operation a test case of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission in the defence sector, noting that its success confirmed India is on the right path towards self-reliance. She said the outcome demonstrated both technological capability and strategic restraint, earning global recognition for Indias measured yet firm response. Broader Independence Day reflections In her address, President Murmu also reflected on the nations progress, noting a GDP growth rate of 6.5% in the last fiscal year, controlled inflation, and rising exports. She emphasised the importance of constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity and underlined that dignity and equal opportunity remain central to Indias democratic journey. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Rajinikanths new film Coolie has taken over the internet, driven by its star-studded cast, the pre and post-release hype, soaring ticket prices, and more. Adding to the excitement, the Singapore Police joined the fun by posting a viral Instagram reel set to one of the films catchy songs, capturing global attention. The lighthearted clip not only highlighted the songs infectious appeal but also amplified the buzz surrounding the release. With ticket prices already hitting record highs, fans are racing to book their seats for what is shaping up to be one of the biggest cinematic events of the year. Heres a closer look at all the frenzy. Rajinikanth in Coolie | Credit: X Rajinikanths Coolie sparks frenzy and how! Singapore Police make slo-mo reel The Singapore Police Force (SPF) posted a slow-motion reel of officers striding to Powerhouse, the energetic track from superstar Rajinikanths upcoming film Coolie. Coolie ticket prices hit record highs, ranging from Rs 57 to Rs 4,500 Coolie has shattered ticket price records, with seats selling for Rs 2,000 in Bengaluru, Rs 1,200 in Delhi, and Rs 800 in Mumbai. In Chennai, prices range from as little as Rs 57 at some theatres to an eye-watering Rs 4,500 at a popular cinema. Singapore company offers paid leave for Tamil employees Reports circulating on social media claim that a Singapore-based company has announced a paid holiday for its Tamil employees so they can watch Superstar Rajinikanths Coolie on its first day of release. A copy of the companys announcement notice has also gone viral online. Coolie becomes first Tamil film to cross $2 million in premiere pre-sales, surpassing Leo and PS1 Sun Pictures announced that Coolie has become the first Tamil film to earn over $2 million in premiere pre-sales in North America, with two days still left before release. This breaks the previous record held by Rajinikanths Kabali (2016) at $1.9 million. Vijays Leo (2023), The GOAT (2024), PS1 (2022), and Jailer (2023) follow in the rankings. The hype was crazy, but fans left theaters disappointed #Coolie ~ Once again King size disappointment after Kabali Weakest work of Lokesh Dull screenplay & story. Rajinikanth looks tired, Ordinary act of Nagarjuna, Aamir Khan is cartoonish. Smashing entry of Upendra is the only best thing about this film. (2/5) pic.twitter.com/5kA99c7OwK Prince Prithvi (@PrincePrithvi) August 14, 2025 Despite weeks of intense hype, viral trends, and record-breaking advance bookings, Rajinikanths latest release has left many fans underwhelmed. While expectations were sky-high, viewers took to social media to express their disappointment, saying the film didnt match the buzz it had created. What began as one of the most anticipated releases of the year has now sparked a wave of mixed reactions. Fans worship Rajinikanth by pouring milk on his poster STORY | Rajinikanth's 'Coolie' hits screens amid frenzied fan celebrations READ: https://t.co/9JCq2lusby (PTI Photo) pic.twitter.com/lw1PHONNI2 Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 14, 2025 Showing their devotion, fans thronged outside cinemas to perform the traditional paal abhishekam on Rajinikanths poster, pouring milk over the superstars image as a gesture of reverence and celebration. Fans throng Chennai theatre for first day-first show #WATCH | Tamil Nadu | Fans of Superstar Rajinikanth gather outside a theatre in Chennai to watch the first day-first show of his new movie 'Coolie'. pic.twitter.com/RTQeCAusFl ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 In Chennai, excitement soared as Rajinikanth fans thronged a theatre for the first day-first show of Coolie.Long before the movie started, the crowd erupted in cheers, dances, and chants celebrating the superstar. Fans in Rohini light up the theatre with flashlights, unable to get enough of Rajinikanth It's Craziest Atmosphere In Rohini #Coolie First TN Show Starts pic.twitter.com/jLnJP53Fx6 Thalaivar North Fan Club (@Thalaiva_NFC) August 14, 2025 In Rohini, Rajinikanth fans turned the theatre into a sea of lights, waving flashlights in unison. The air buzzed with excitement as cheers and whistles filled every corner of the hall. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. SpaceX successfully launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on Thursday morning, delivering another batch of Starlink satellites to orbit. The flight is the boosters 10th mission and came shortly after a White House order aimed at streamlining regulations for commercial space launches. Thursday Morning liftoff and booster landing Liftoff occurred at 8:29 a.m. from Launch Complex 40, with favorable weather conditions reported by the 45th Weather Squadron. About eight minutes after launch, the first-stage booster landed on the Just Read the Instructions drone ship in the Atlantic Ocean, completing its 10th flight. The booster has previously supported three Starlink missions, Crew-9, RRT-1, Firefly Blue Ghost Mission 1, Fram2, SXM-10, and MTG-S1. The launch was SpaceXs second in less than 10 hours, following a Starlink mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California earlier the same morning. Artemis II will launch on its mission around the Moon in early 2026. The crew is training, the rocket is stacking, and all the pieces are coming together. Our experts will be on @Reddit to take your @NASAArtemis questions on Aug. 14 at 1pm ET (1700 UTC): https://t.co/yzlYmjbQki pic.twitter.com/Z98B17fhy1 NASA (@NASA) August 12, 2025 Countdown timeline and preparations Final preparations began 38 minutes before liftoff when the launch director gave the go for propellant load. Rocket-grade kerosene and liquid oxygen loading began for the first stage, followed by second-stage fueling 16 minutes before launch. Engine chill began at T-minus seven minutes, and final prelaunch checks occurred in the last minute before ignition. Brevard County Emergency Management activated its launch operations support team ahead of the mission, and fueling was underway by 8:00 a.m. without any delays. 8/14/2025 5:50 AM | We have activated our launch operations support team in preparation for the SpaceX Falcon9 launch. Window: 6:47 AM - 10:47 AM pic.twitter.com/EslRbIhG3V Brevard EOC (@BrevardEOC) August 14, 2025 New White House order on commercial space rules The launch took place against the backdrop of a policy change in Washington. On Wednesday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the U.S. Department of Transportation to remove outdated and overly restrictive regulations for launch and reentry vehicles. The order also calls for reducing lengthy environmental reviews, which have previously delayed some missions. While SpaceX was not mentioned by name, the policy is expected to benefit companies like it, along with other private space firms such as Blue Origin. MAKE SPACE GREAT AGAIN @POTUS has signed an Executive Order to streamline regulations and foster a competitive commercial space industry, ensuring the United States maintains its leading role in the commercial use of space. pic.twitter.com/EIjv6op3nA The White House (@WhiteHouse) August 13, 2025 It is imperative that we build on the far-reaching actions taken by my Administration during my first term to ensure that new space-based industries, space exploration capabilities, and cutting-edge defense systems are pioneered in America, the statement from the White House read. US President Donald Trump | Credit: X Busy week for SpaceX Alongside Thursdays launch, SpaceX is preparing for its next Starship test flight in Texas, unveiling a new design with larger grid fins to improve booster landings. NASAs Artemis II crew, targeting a February 2026 launch around the Moon, also continued training this week at Kennedy Space Center. The morning liftoff added to a packed schedule for SpaceX, underscoring both its rapid launch pace and the potential impact of the new U.S. regulatory approach on future missions. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Supreme Court on stray dogs: The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on the ongoing Delhi-NCR stray dogs case after a hearing on Thursday, 14 August. The matter relates to a plea challenging the earlier court order issued on 11 August, which directed the relocation of all stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) to shelter homes. Background of the Stray Dogs Controversy On 11 August, a two-judge bench comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan observed that the rising number of dog bite incidents had created an extremely grim situation. They ordered the permanent relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR at the earliest. This decision triggered strong opposition from animal rights groups and residents. Following these protests, the case came before a three-judge bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria, which decided to reserve the order after hearing multiple sides of the argument. Courts Concerns Over Inaction by Authorities Delhi stray dog case moved to bigger SC bench | Credit: X During Thursdays hearing, the Supreme Court pointed out that the root cause of the issue lies in the inaction of local authorities in implementing the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules. The bench remarked, Rules are made by the Parliament, but they are not being enforced. This lack of implementation has created a situation where humans are suffering from attacks, while animal lovers are concerned about the welfare of dogs. The court stressed the need for a balanced approach to protect both public safety and animal welfare. Withdrawal of Suo Motu Case On 13 August, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai withdrew the suo motu case on stray dogs from the bench of Justices Pardiwala and Mahadevan. This allowed fresh hearings before a different bench. Government and NGO Arguments Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, criticised some individuals who publicly claim to be animal lovers but engage in contradictory behaviour. Meanwhile, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for an NGO dedicated to dog welfare, called the situation very serious and sought an immediate stay on the 11 August order. PETA Indias Stand The Indian branch of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) strongly opposed the order, labelling it impractical, illogical, and illegal. They warned that removing community dogs from their natural surroundings could lead to chaos and suffering for both the animals and residents. Peoples Reaction to the Supreme Courts Stray Dog Order The Supreme Courts order has sparked mixed reactions among citizens: One social media user commented, Whether someone eats chicken or not has nothing to do with their right to care for stray dogs. Compassion is not an all-or-nothing equation. You can consume meat and still believe in humane treatment of animals. X user reaction after Supreme Court reserved stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR Another person expressed both relief and concern, saying, Happy and sad at the same time. Why not extend the ban to all strays, including cows? X user reaction after Supreme Court reserved stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR A traveller shared, Ive been to France, Italy, Switzerland, Japan, America, Russia, UAE, Israel, Sri Lanka, and many other countries, but I never saw street dogs there. Is there more love for them only in India? X user reaction after Supreme Court reserved stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR A neutral perspective came from one user suggesting, Both sides are wrong. The best solution is to neuter and vaccinate dogs while building proper shelters for their gradual removal from the streets. X user reaction after Supreme Court reserved stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR Another user explained, A reserved order means the judge has finished hearing arguments but will take time to write and deliver the final judgment later. X user reaction after Supreme Court reserved stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR What Happens Next? With the order now reserved, the Supreme Court will take time to review the case details before delivering its final decision. This judgment is expected to have a significant impact on Delhi-NCR stray dog management policies, influencing both public safety and animal welfare in the region. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending. Tehran true story: John Abrahams upcoming film Tehran is based on the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats in New Delhi. These coordinated blasts, which stunned the nation and drew international attention, from the intense backdrop of the movie. Blending real events with high-octane drama, the film promises a gripping take on one of Indias most shocking incidents in recent history. Tehran true story - What were the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats? The 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats involved a series of coordinated bombings targeting Israeli diplomatic staff in New Delhi, India; Tbilisi, Georgia; and Bangkok, Thailand, on February 13 and 14, 2012. In New Delhi, a magnetic bomb attached to the car of an Israeli diplomats wife exploded, injuring her, the driver, and two bystanders. In Tbilisi, a similar device was discovered and safely defused, while in Bangkok, a failed bombing attempt left several people injured. Bombings and their impact Israel accused Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps of orchestrating the attacks as part of a broader retaliation for the 2008 assassination of Hezbollah commander Imad Mughniyeh. The bombings were seen as an extension of the IranIsrael proxy conflict, with Iran allegedly seeking to avenge the killing of its ally. The attacks heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with both countries accusing each other of state-sponsored terrorism. Increased security measures were implemented at Israeli diplomatic missions worldwide. The incidents intensified international scrutiny of Irans activities. John Abraham in Tehran | Credit: Zee5 Who all star in Tehran? Alongside John Abraham, Tehran features Manushi Chhillar in action-packed roles. The cast also includes Neeru Bajwa, Hadi Khanjanpour, Madhurima Tuli, Adam Karst, Allon Sylvain, and Ido Samuel. Where to watch Tehran on OTT? Tehran is now streaming on Zee5. For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment. Rabbits in Fort Collins, Colorado, have recently been spotted with hornlike growths on their faces, sparking curiosity and concern among residents. Wildlife experts say the condition is caused by Shope papillomavirus, a relatively common disease in cottontail rabbits that does not pose a risk to humans or pets. Shope Papillomavirus and its effects The Shope papillomavirus, first identified in the 1930s by Dr. Richard E. Shope, causes wart-like growths that can resemble horns when they elongate. The virus spreads between rabbits through fleas and ticks, which are most active during the summer. While the growths are usually harmless, they can interfere with eating if they develop near the eyes or mouth. What are those called in The Last Of Us... CLICKERS? Rabbits spotted invading parts of the US with weird tentacles sprouting from their heads due to virus... Colorado officials are warning: "DO NOT TOUCH" pic.twitter.com/aXCe7ip3vW SynCronus (@syncronus) August 13, 2025 Public sightings and reactions Local residents began posting photos of the unusual-looking rabbits, sometimes referring to them with nicknames like Frankenstein bunnies or zombie rabbits. Fort Collins resident Susan Mansfield said one rabbit she observed returned the following year with a larger growth. Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesperson Kara Van Hoose confirmed the agency has received calls about the sightings but stressed that such cases are not unusual. Transmission and treatment The virus affects wild and domestic rabbits but cannot be transmitted to humans, pets, or other animal species. Infected wild rabbits often recover naturally as their immune systems clear the virus, causing the growths to disappear. In domestic rabbits, however, the disease can be more severe and should be treated by a veterinarian. In Colorado, USA, many people have recently witnessed rabbits with strange black horns growing on their heads. They are jokingly calling them "zombie rabbits." Officials say the rabbits are infected with a common virus, but they also warn people not to touch the infected rabbits. pic.twitter.com/GFdc1WbnDP diana (@diana00455493) August 14, 2025 Historical context and folklore links Scientists believe the virus may have inspired the North American jackalope myth, a centuries-old tale of horned rabbits. The Shope papillomavirus also played a role in early research linking viruses to cancer, contributing to the understanding of human papillomavirus and its connection to diseases like cervical cancer. Cottontail species in Colorado Colorado is home to three cottontail rabbit species: mountain, desert, and eastern cottontails. They can be hard to distinguish except by habitat and geographic location, but all are susceptible to Shope papillomavirus. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending. Greek firefighters are continuing to battle a major wildfire on the eastern Aegean island of Chios. At the same time, blazes that broke out earlier this week in several other parts of the country have been largely contained, officials said. The most severe fire front is on Chios, where crews worked through the night to control the flames. In the western region of Preveza, firefighters are dealing with continuous flare-ups from a fire that has spread into the neighboring Arta region, though no homes are currently under threat. Meanwhile, the situation has significantly improved for large wildfires in Achaia on the Peloponnese peninsula and on the island of Zakynthos, where there are no longer active fronts. Fire service spokesperson Vasilis Vathrakogiannis said that nearly 5,000 firefighters and 62 aircraft remain deployed across the country to combat the fires amid challenging conditions of high heat and strong winds. Authorities continue to urge public vigilance. iefimerida.gr The Hellenic Police arrested a foreign national in Central Macedonia against whom a conviction was pending. He had been sentenced to nine years imprisonment and a fine of 31,000 euros for drug trafficking, specifically purchasing, transporting, and possessing drugs on multiple occasions, illegal possession of weapons, and possession of a forged passport. Authorities also confiscated a forged passport and a forged driving licence found in his possession, an offence for which a separate criminal case has been filed. The arrested individual was handed over to the competent authorities. iefimerida.gr An Egyptian vulture that was rescued as a flightless chick from a devastating wildfire in Greece's Dadia Forest in 2022 has been spotted alive three years later in Bulgaria, a rare and hopeful sign for the critically endangered species. The young vulture and its sibling were saved from their nest during one of Europe's largest wildfires in recent decades. After the fire, they were returned to the nest, ringed for identification, and successfully raised by their parents before migrating to Africa This month, researchers from the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds located one of the survivors in the Rhodope Mountains and fitted it with a tracking transmitter, confirming its Greek origin. The survival is a significant development, said a field researcher with the Thrace Biodiversity Protection Society, Elisavet Kret. She noted that only five breeding pairs of Egyptian vultures remain in Greeceall in the Thrace regionand that many young birds do not survive their first perilous migration. The reappearance of a young Egyptian vulture in its birth region is an optimistic sign, Ms. Kret said. iefimerida.gr Nollywood filmmaker Biodun Stephen has urged young women to always wear underwear when in public spaces. Her guidance follows a recent viral incident involving a female passenger on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos. On August 10, videos went viral online showing passenger Comfort Emmanson engaged in a heated confrontation with flight attendants, which later escalated with airport security. Advertisement READ MORE: Major Funding For Nigerian Music Comes From West, Fraud Industry M.I Abaga While being removed from the plane by security, her breasts became exposed. Ibom Air stated that the incident started before takeoff when Emmanson refused to turn off her mobile phone, breaching aviation safety regulations. Following another passenger turning off her device, Emmanson reportedly flew into a rage and, upon landing in Lagos, she allegedly assaulted a flight attendant. In response to the incident, Stephen took to Instagram on Tuesday to stress the importance of wearing underwear, particularly in situations that might involve physical confrontations. The movie star noted that she had previously advised young women to wear bras and panties, but her advice had attracted criticism. I do recall few years ago when I did a video that people should stop going without panties. After sometimes, I also warned that people should always deem it fit to wear bra. Some of you said you can do whatever you like with your breast, she said in a video. Can you all see what has happened now? The girl from the Ibom Airline. She knew she was not wearing bra or panties and she still wanted to fight. At least if you want to warfare, you must have the necessary tools of weaponry. Eg. You wear pants and bra. Because that lady wore leggings that day and I believed she did not also wear a pant. Did you see her two breasts out? People that were not supposed to see it, they all did. Once you people wear body hugs, you refuse to wear bra. Im saying it again, wear your bra, wear your pants so that when the spirit of Hulk Hogan enters you, youll be ready for battle. Former Minister of Interior and African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, flagged off a membership drive in Kosofe LGA on Wednesday. He urged Nigerians to vote out the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections. Addressing party supporters at the event, Aregbesola criticized major political parties, saying, The APC, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party (LP) have failed to provide good governance or meaningful development. Advertisement He described the ADC as a credible alternative capable of resetting the country on the path of progress. The rally, which drew a significant turnout despite initial delays, is part of a broader nationwide mobilisation effort. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/ndlea-gets-48-new-vehicles-as-fg-strengthens-drug-war.html Aregbesola called on members to intensify grassroots sensitisation and encourage voter registration under the ongoing Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continuous voter registration exercise. He also urged them to prepare to protect their votes during the elections. He urged party members, Go out and spread the gospel of the ADC to all Nigerians, especially in your local government areas. Tell them that a new vista of hope and opportunity awaits them in our party. He also promised incentives to support mobilisation efforts. Prominent ADC figures at the event included Lagos State ADC Chairman George Ashiru, Lagos State Influencer Rahman Owokoniran, and Kosofe LGA Influencer Funmi Onita-Coker, all stressing the importance of mass mobilisation ahead of 2027. Ashiru welcomed prospective members and pledged to deliver honest and transparent leadership, assuring equal opportunities for both new entrants and existing party members. Aregbesola concluded by urging continued grassroots engagement. He also announced that ADC membership cards would soon be available for distribution, signaling the partys readiness for an aggressive nationwide campaign. How can major innovation platforms and core industrial breakthrough projects be jointly established? How should scientific talent be co-cultivated? And how might technological services align with financial support systems? Recently, standing committees of people's congresses from Shanghai Municipality, Jiangsu Province, Zhejiang Province, and Anhui Province have respectively voted to adopt "The Decision on Promoting Coordinated Scientific Innovation Development in the Yangtze River Delta" (hereinafter referred to as "the Decision"), which will take effect on September 1, 2025. The Decision emphasizes leveraging Shanghai's role as an international science and innovation hub to spearhead regional collaboration, while amplifying the distinctive strengths of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui. It calls for engaging diverse innovators across the region to collectively enhance collaborative R&D capacities. Concurrently, the document outlines foundational principles including strategic coordination, joint development of key innovation zones, open cooperation for mutual benefits, and equitable sharing of outcomes. In the first half of 2025, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui collectively accounted for 24.8% of Chinas total economic output, continuing to script the miraculous transformation where "addition becomes multiplication" through regional integration. This February, Putuo District (Shanghai) formally joined hands with Nanjing, Wuxi, Changzhou, Suzhou, Nantong, Zhenjiang, and Taizhou to jointly advance construction of the Shanghai-Jiangsu Industrial Innovation Belt. Another key initiative driving collaborative industrial innovation across the Yangtze River Delta is establishing cross-provincial high-tech zones. Recently, three sub-parks of the cross-provincial high-tech zone within the Yangtze River Delta Ecological Green Integration Demonstration Zone were inaugurated. Covering a planned area of 49.16 km. The zone will implement an integrated funding mechanism combining direct investment and equity funds to fuel regional industrial advancement. In July this year, the Executive Committee of the Yangtze River Delta Integration Demonstration Zone collaborated with Qingpu District (Shanghai), Wujiang District (Suzhou), and Jiashan County Government (Zhejiang) to introduce twelve measures advancing three priorities: deepened reform consolidation, cross-jurisdictional coordination of technological and industrial innovation, and mutual recognition and sharing of production factors. To optimize utilization of Hefei Advanced Light Source facility, provinces and municipalities across the Yangtze River Delta signed a memorandum of cooperation for jointly enhancing fundamental research capabilities. Such integration will unlock previously fragmented scientific resources and accelerate mobility of innovation elements across administrative boundaries. As one of China's most dynamic economic engines, most open regions, and strongest innovation hubs, the Yangtze River Delta has both the capability and responsibility to pioneer pathways in cultivating new quality productive forces. In recent years, the three provinces and one municipality have launched innovative pilot programs targeting "cross-regional sharing of scientific resources, enhanced regional innovation capacity, and reduced innovation costs." These experiments span policy frameworks, collaborative R&D initiatives, practical platforms, resource pooling mechanisms, and ecosystem developmentcollectively fostering an integrated environment for entrepreneurship and innovation. By uniting regional scientific assets through its Innovation Community, the Yangtze River Delta conducts joint breakthrough research on critical technologies while sharing outcomes. This strategic approach minimizes redundant low-level investments and leverages complementary advantages among provinces and cities for win-win collaboration. Source: anhuinews.com Malaysia-based Axiata Group announced on Wednesday it has signed an MoU with the Ministry of Post and Telecommunications of Cambodia (MPTC) to collaborate on beefing up Cambodias cybersecurity landscape, as well as developing cybersecurity talent in the country. Under the terms of the MoU, Axiata and MPTC will establish a common platform for exchanging information on cyber threats and strategies to increase the effectiveness of incident response, to include cross-border incidents. Axiata and MPTC will also jointly develop and implement capacity-building programmes to enhance the skills and expertise of cybersecurity professionals within both Axiata and the MPTC. The MoU also covers bilateral cooperation in knowledge sharing and organising joint trainings, seminars, study visits, conferences, and forums, including those focused on professional certification under Global ACE Certification. Axiata's Cambodian telco Smart Axiata will support the partnership locally, as it has deep local market expertise. The Axiata Cyber Fusion Center the groups cybersecurity centre of excellence opened in 2022 in Petaling Jaya will also contribute its real-time threat monitoring, proactive hunting, and robust protection capabilities to support the MPTCs objectives, said Axiata Group CEO and MD Vivek Sood. In an increasingly digital world, robust cybersecurity is not just a necessity but a foundational element for sustainable economic growth and societal well-being, he said in a statement. This memorandum signifies our deep commitment to advancing Asia's digital frontier by leveraging Axiata's extensive expertise, particularly through the Axiata Cyber Fusion Centre. Sam Sethserey, MPTCs director general of the General Department of ICT, said the MoU with Axiata marks a new milestone in the Ministrys ongoing efforts to strengthen cybersecurity in Cambodia focusing on cybersecurity human resources development, cyber threat response, and cybersecurity resilience through a public-private partnership mechanism. The MPTCs tie-up with Axiata comes as Cambodia says it has been seeing an increase in cyberattacks particularly in the last few months as tensions have spiked between Cambodia and Thailand following a border clash between the two countries in May. According to various media reports, the Cambodian government has accused hacker groups in Thailand of attacking government websites, while the Thai government has accused Cambodian hackers of attacking government and media websites. Both governments have also warned their respective citizens to beware of fake news spreading rumours about the conflict between the two countries. The conflict has also seen Cambodia and Thailand move to cut internet links between the two countries. Meanwhile, Cambodia typically ranks low in major cybersecurity readiness indexes. The EUs National Cyber Security Index ranked Cambodia 120th in the world based on data up to 2023, while the ITUs latest Global Cybersecurity Index 2024 ranks Cambodia in its fourth tier (out of five) as evolving, and several points below the average score for Asia-Pacific. A Canadian Federal Court has declared Nigerias two leading political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as terrorist organisations. According to Peoples Gazette, the judgment, delivered by Justice Phuong Ngo on June 17, 2025, dismissed Mr. Egharevbas appeal against Canadas Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) decision. On Thursday, August 14, 2025, the ruling was highlighted as one of the clearest pronouncements by a foreign court equating Nigerias ruling and former ruling parties with terrorist entities under international law. Advertisement The Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness had argued that both APC and PDP were implicated in political violence, subversion of democracy, and electoral bloodshed. Mr. Egharevba was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 1999 until 2007, after which he defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), remaining there until 2017. READ MORE:https://www.informationng.com/2025/08/i-have-no-apologies-for-supporting-tinubu-hes-my-friend-of-22-years-soludo.html He insisted that he never personally engaged in political violence or subversive acts during his time in either party. However, Justice Phuong Ngo dismissed his claim, stating: The conduct of individuals who are members of the PDP, including high-ranking officials, and those who committed political violence and intimidation on their behalf, is too widespread and persistent over too great a period of time to dissociate the leadership of the party from their actions. Canadian immigration authorities flagged his affiliations after he entered the country in 2017, citing intelligence and international reports linking both parties to politically motivated killings. The IAD concluded that PDP members engaged in ballot stuffing, voter intimidation, and killings during the 2003 and 2004 elections. The ruling noted that party leaders benefited from the violence without taking any action to stop it. Justice Ngo ruled that mere membership during such violent periods meets Canadas legal definition of democratic subversion, even without proof of personal violence. An admission of membership in an organisation is sufficient regardless of the nature, frequency, duration or degree of involvement, he stated. The ruling effectively ends Mr. Egharevbas bid for asylum, with authorities now likely to initiate deportation procedures. The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended six suspected cultists in connection with the killing of Kamoru, also known as Keeper, following a clash in the Ebute Meta area of the state. In a statement sent to PUNCH Metro on Wednesday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the suspects were apprehended on July 17, 2025, during an intelligence-led operation by detectives from the commands Anti-Kidnapping Unit in Surulere. Hundeyin stated that the arrested individuals are Raphael Ashim, 30; Wasiu Kareem, 33; Sadiq Olabisi, 40; Olamilekan Oluwatosin, 27; Olalekan Olugbodi, 54; and Ibrahim Oladimeji, 22. Advertisement READ MORE: Ogun Amotekun Nabs Five Suspects Over Armed Robbery On Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway He stated that the suspects are believed to have participated in multiple cult-related conflicts within the community and its environs, incidents that also led to the death of 30-year-old Kamoru. On July 17, 2025, detectives attached to the commands Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Surulere, embarked on an intelligence-led operation to the Ebute Meta area of Lagos and arrested one Raphael Ashim, m, aged 30; Wasiu Kareem, m, aged 33; Sadiq Olabisi, m, aged 40; Olamilekan Oluwatosin, m, aged 27; Olalekan Olugbodi, m, aged 54, and Ibrahim Oladimeji, m, aged 22, all of whom were involved in a cult clash in Ebute Meta and its environs, which led to the gruesome murder of one Kamoru alias Keeper, m, aged 30. The police spokesman added that authorities are continuing efforts to track down other gang members on the run and seize their weapons. The suspects have been charged in court and are awaiting trial, he added. File photo of the Penobscot River and the Milford Dam in Milford, Maine, near where a 3-year-old Havertown girl was found dead in a vehicle. Read more The mother of the Havertown woman charged in Maine with manslaughter in the death of her 3-year-old daughter, who was left in a hot car for hours on Saturday, told an investigator that her daughter had been hallucinating and hearing voices telling her what to do, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed in the case. Kelly Browns mother told the investigator that her daughter had been posting disturbing videos to Facebook that displayed behavior that had changed significantly from how she acted less than a month earlier, the affidavit said. Advertisement Two other witnesses said that they had noticed a change in Browns behavior, with one a cousin saying Brown had become quite emotional and had been talking about Norse gods and deities, the affidavit said. On Saturday night, police found Fiona Brown and a small family dog dead inside Kelly Browns 2017 white Nissan Murano, which was parked outside a gas station convenience store in Milford, Maine. Kelly Browns mother had filed a missing-person report, which led police to track down Browns cell phone to somewhere around the convenience store, the affidavit said. The results of the girls autopsy are pending, but the Maine Office of Chief Medical Examiner said heat-related death is the most likely explanation based on the existing evidence, the Maine State Police said Monday. Brown told investigators that she had fallen into a nearby river and suffered an hours-long ordeal to get back to her vehicle, but surveillance video and other evidence contradicted her version of events, the affidavit said. On July 30, Brown left Havertown with her daughter and her 13-year-old dog, Penelope, for an annual monthlong trip to visit family members in Maine. She had been staying with relatives or at their properties until last Thursday, when she did not return to her mothers summer residence. Instead, she started camping in her vehicle with her daughter and dog. Kelly Brown stated that as they stopped along the way, she noticed a lot of trash at these rest areas and boat landings and decided that she would teach Fiona Brown about nature and how to keep it clean, so they began to pick up and collect the trash, the affidavit said. Surveillance video showed Brown around 2 a.m. Saturday exiting her Nissan outside the Freshies market in Milford, the affidavit said. Brown is again seen exiting her vehicle at 5:56 a.m. Saturday and then allegedly is not seen for more than 14 hours. She returns around 8:30 p.m., when police and EMS personnel were already on scene. Brown later told investigators that around 2 p.m. Saturday she went to retrieve a full trash bag and intended to quickly return to her daughter and dog in the locked vehicle, the affidavit said. Brown said trash had dropped from the bag and she was trying to pick up the pieces when she slipped down an embankment directly behind the Freshies and fell into the Penobscot River. She told investigators she struggled to keep her head above the water and repeatedly hit rocks, and finally she was able to swim across the river to get out, the affidavit said. Its unclear if she swam across the river or to a nearby island. According to Google Maps, the distance from the embankment behind the Freshies to the closest point on the island is just under 400 feet. The distance to the closest point on the other side of the river is approximately 1,000 feet. Brown told investigators, the affidavit said, that she was in pain from the ordeal but was able to eventually cross the river, apparently via a nearby train trestle. She had numerous scratches and bruises on both her lower arms and lower legs, which she said she sustained while falling down the embankment, the affidavit said. The scratches and bruises were photographed, and Brown was taken to Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center to be treated. The affidavit said that Brown screamed when she was told her daughter and dog were dead, and that she stated that Fiona Brown and Penelope were her world, and she didnt know what to do. Investigators, however, said her story did not add up. Kelly Browns alternative explanation for abandoning her daughter and dog in the locked closed car on a hot August day contradicts the surveillance video and the observations of the law enforcement officers when she appeared on the scene and was later interviewed, the affidavit said. Brown was booked into the Penobscot County Jail. Maine State Police said that bail had been set, but it was not immediately clear on Wednesday if she was still in custody. Othman Alotaibi, a master's student from Kuwait, at the University of Pennsylvania. He had been planning to do his doctoral work in the United States, too, but the government's recent policies affecting international students has changed his mind. Read more Othman Alotaibi has enjoyed much about studying for his masters degree in chemical engineering at the University of Pennsylvania: the supportive professors, the kind Philadelphians, and the challenging academic environment. But Alotaibi, a native of Kuwait who plans to graduate next year, said he wont stay in the United States for his doctoral degree as he had planned. Advertisement Given President Donald Trumps policies toward international students, including delays in visa processing, deportations, travel bans, and vows to aggressively scrutinize Chinese students, he said, he doesnt feel safe going home to see his family or friends. He spent the summer in Philadelphia, and he said he wont leave for the winter holidays, either. READ MORE: Tensions rise on local campuses as Trump targets international students I feel like Im trapped, said Alotaibi, 25, who got his undergraduate degree in the United Kingdom. Im considering going back to the U.K. [for a doctoral degree] because I know the place. They would never deport me for any silly reason. His experience is not unlike some other international students who also have remained in the country over vacation periods for fear they could not return. A big concern is confusion and lack of clarity, said Lorena Grundy, a practice assistant professor in chemical engineering at Penn and vice president of the schools Chapter of the American Association of University Professors. Students dont know what could and couldnt affect their immigration status. Theres a lot of fear because of that. READ MORE: Among schools nationwide, Haverford and Penn warn international students to return to campus before Trump inauguration International enrollments at U.S. colleges are projected to drop this fall, the first new school year since Trump began his second term. As much as a 30% to 40% decline in new international students is forecast, according to NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Overall international enrollment could slide by 15%, the group said, meaning a loss of $7 billion in revenue. The Common App, which many students use to apply to college, reported Wednesday that applications from international students had declined by 1% after steady growth since 2020-21. Philadelphia-area colleges are helping students problem-shoot. We are in constant communication with our international students via Zoom calls and email, said Cheryl Lynn Horsey, Bryn Mawr Colleges vice president for enrollment. We seek to assure them that they are welcome at Bryn Mawr and that we will do all that we can to ensure that they have a smooth transition. READ MORE: Three Penn students have had their immigration statuses terminated The college expects 54 new international students this fall, up from 45 last year. Fifty-nine were admitted, but five have been unable to get visa interviews, the school said. We are hearing from international students regarding their uncertainty about getting visa interviews and whether America is a safe place for them to attend school, given the current climate in this country, Horsey said. Pennsylvania State University anticipates a decrease in international students, though the school cautioned that final counts will not be available until after the school year begins, and it declined to provide preliminary numbers. The University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University also declined to provide projections, while others said they anticipated small drops, similar numbers to last year, or in the case of Rutgers and Temple Universities an increase. Impact at Philly-area colleges Colleges said they are offering myriad supports to students, including pre-arrival and transition programs, online advising sessions, and opportunities to defer admission to a later semester if unable to obtain visas. Haverford offered free summer housing to international students unable to return home. Penn extended the date for students to request a gap year until the first day of classes. Temple offered students the option of studying at its campuses in Japan, which is growing rapidly, and Rome, or beginning classes online if available in students degree areas, said Temple spokesperson Steve Orbanek. Haverford College said it projects a five-student, or 14%, decline in new international students and about a 5% decline in overall international enrollment. Haverford cautioned that its numbers do not include U.S. citizens living abroad. We had nine first-year international students withdraw or defer their enrollment for the fall, slightly more than usual for Haverford, said spokesperson Chris Mills. Among returning students, theres been a small increase in leaves of absence and transfers, but overall our numbers have remained relatively stable. Swarthmore College reports that five to seven students have been unable to obtain visas this year, compared with one or two in prior years. But the school anticipates 14% of its incoming class will be international this fall; the schools overall international enrollment last year was 14%. Rutgers, New Jerseys flagship state university, which enrolled more than 6,300 international students across its campuses last year, anticipates a 10% to 12% increase this year in overall international enrollment. As of Aug. 3, Temple Universitys overall international enrollment, including undergraduates, masters, and doctoral students, stood at 1,831, up 4.9% from 1,745 last year. While first-year undergraduate and transfer students dropped, incoming graduate students increased substantially. Seventy percent of international students who were scheduled to return have enrolled, slightly more than in each of the last two years, the school said. We are here to do good and live good Alotaibi, whose education is funded by the Kuwait Ministry of Higher Education, got his undergraduate degree at Swansea University in Wales. The son of a retired engineer and schoolteacher, he came to the United States in August 2024. Over the spring semester, he watched as the Trump administration threatened to deport students involved in pro-Palestinian protests and paused student visa interviews for several weeks. He was disturbed by reports of student arrests and deportations, particularly that of a Tufts University doctoral student from Turkey who had a visa but was plucked off the streets in March by immigration agents who accused her of supporting Hamas. A federal judge ordered her release in May. This is not the United States Ive seen in movies or read about in books, he thought. He remembers the unease he felt when Penn cautioned international students from countries on red and orange lists to avoid any unnecessary travel. Kuwait is not on those lists. Too terrified to buy a plane ticket and travel home, Alotaibi remained in Philadelphia this summer and worked in a lab at Penn. His father visited last month, he said. Alotaibi said he has not participated in protests, has followed the rules, and has a visa that runs through next summer, when he is due to get his degree. But he still felt unnerved because he is Arab and worried that could make him a target. When they targeted the postdoc student at Tufts University, that scared us, he said. The fear is spreading, he said. Abdullah AlShayji, a professor of political science at Kuwait University, who is a friend of Alotaibis, is urging students to look at countries besides the United States for study, Alotaibi said. AlShayji studied in the United States decades ago and always used to talk positively about it until recently, Alotaibi said. When some other international students heard Alotaibi agreed to talk to The Inquirer, they warned him against it, Alotaibi said. I said Im doing this for the right reason, he said. We need to be seen in the right way. By the right way, I mean we are here to do good and live good. Earlier this year, he joined Grundy, his professor, and a group of other students at Tacony Creek Park to help clear an illegal tire dump site. Grundy read to the class the announcement seeking volunteers and asked if anyone wanted to accompany her. Four students immediately said they wanted to come, she said. Three of them were international. They volunteered to spend a rainy Saturday morning, getting covered in mud, carrying tires out of Tacony Park. Alotaibi and his class partner did their final class project on creating solutions to tire waste, she said. Thats what we lose, she said, if we prevent international students from coming to the United States. Delco Unplugged stickers and information about the organization rests on a table near Alex Becker, founder of Delco Unplugged, in Rose Valley on Sunday. Read more It didnt take long for Alex Becker to become disillusioned with her tech job. Becker worked as a Teach for America corps member and public-sector researcher before taking a job with a tech company a few years ago, researching how to get users to spend more time looking at its platforms. Advertisement They are profiting on our attention and our kids attention and their vulnerability, she said of the tech world. I couldnt stop thinking about what I had seen. Becker, a parent of two children, ages 1 and 4, in Rose Valley, has since left her tech job and is now advocating to keep phones out of schools, joining a growing movement fueled by parental worries about screen time, social media, and mental health. Becker is the founder of Delco Unplugged, a coalition of Delaware County parents pledging to delay smartphone use until high school. In Lower Merion and Radnor, parents are circulating a similar Wait Until 8th pledge. Some are working to take their effort statewide. They hope that strength in numbers will help them resist what can be a crushing social pressure for kids to have phones, and that they can give kids back precious childhood moments lost to doomscrolling and cyberbullying. Theyre created to be addictive According to a report from the U.S. surgeon general, 95% of youths ages 13 to 17 reported using social media in 2023, with more than a third saying they used social media almost constantly. Nearly 40% of children ages 8 to 12 reported using the platforms. As a pediatrician, Emily Spengler said, she has seen a tremendous increase in mental health crises. Spengler, a parent in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District who is involved with Delco Unplugged, said constant phone use has allowed kids to drown out difficult feelings with the tap of their fingers. It has made it hard for them to be able to sit with a problem for a little bit of time and figure out what to do with it, she said. Theyre created to be addictive. Delco Unplugged grew out of another group, Haven Hold the Phone, a coalition of parents in the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District who were concerned about phones in schools. The group pushed for the district to ban phones entirely, speaking at board meetings and creating a petition that garnered 681 signatures. That was an intense eight-month period of advocacy, Becker said. The district tightened its rules, banning phones outright in elementary and middle school and allowing limited phone use in high school. Becker then broadened her efforts, founding Delco Unplugged. The group has tabled at community events in Media and Swarthmore and hosted a screening of Cant Look Away, a documentary about social media use. On the Main Line, Wait Until 8th grows In Lower Merion and Radnor, parents have been organizing around the Wait Until 8th pledge, a national effort that asks families to commit to delay smartphone use until at least the end of eighth grade. It just occurred to me, this is the answer. If we can have half the school, half the classroom, not to have social media, it becomes much easier to be a parent saying no, said John Bellis, a Lower Merion father who has a rising third grader at Penn Wynne Elementary, as well as a preschooler. One weekend last school year, Bellis said, he pulled 1,000 email addresses of fellow parents from his elementary schools Home and School Association and sent the Wait Until 8th pledge. (The pledge doesnt ask parents to forgo all phones; basic phones and smartwatches are still acceptable.) Bellis who said two parents asked that he take them off his email list, while 15 others thanked him has spoken at Lower Merion school board meetings and connected with parents at other schools. Numbers of Lower Merion families who have signed the pledge continue to climb, from 358 in May to 395 in July. While Bellis believes parents are increasingly on board with delaying smartphones It used to be, I got my second grader a phone. Isnt he lucky? Now its like, youre almost embarrassed he encounters hesitation from parents who have already given their older kids phones. Some parents also feel the stance is anti-tech, which Bellis rejects. Were just drawing the line at smartphones, said Bellis, who has been trying to work with Lower Merion school officials to help spread the pledge. The district will not officially endorse it, Bellis said, but school board members have assured him no teacher will get in trouble for voicing support or sharing information with parents. Yair Lev has also been trying to organize parents in Lower Merion. A father of children entering second grade and kindergarten at Cynwyd Elementary, Lev was moved to act after his niece was the only third grader in her school without a smartphone despite efforts by her mother, a clinical psychologist, to warn fellow parents. Lev, who worries about the prospect of cyberbullying and exposure to pornography, decided to get involved. He connected with parents like Bellis and others, helped form Wait Until 8th groups on WhatsApp and Facebook, and has been arranging webinars with experts. Theres more and more parents who are thinking This is crazy. What happened? Lev said. In the last 10 years, we got sucked into this whirlpool of social media and smartphones. In the Radnor School District, parent David Rosenberg has been spreading the Wait Until 8th pledge, which 220 district families have now signed. Rosenberg, a parent of rising fourth and second graders, said he is as guilty as anyone of excessive phone use but sees the addictive qualities as particularly dangerous for kids. Just like we think its normal we dont allow kids into bars until theyre 21, hopefully, in a perfect world, they think its normal to just not have a smartphone until high school, Rosenberg said. From the classroom to Harrisburg Thirty-one states and the District of Columbia require school districts to ban or restrict students use of cell phones, according to a tally by Education Week. Pennsylvania does not have a ban. Gov. Josh Shapiro in 2024 signed into law a multimillion-dollar pilot program for schools to purchase lockable smartphone bags to use during the day. Only 18 school districts requested funds for the bags. Becker has helped expand Delco Unplugged and PA Unplugged, a statewide coalition. The group has a live tracker of school districts cell phone policies and advocates for model legislation banning cell phones and other electronics in schools. Lev said he sees multiple silos of parent groups organizing around slightly different efforts. If like-minded parents can come together and amplify their message, he said, the movement will be more successful in growing. Becker emphasized that PA Unplugged doesnt want to bar kids from communicating. In November, the group will host a regional alternative device fair, where parents will be able to learn about kid-safe devices like Troomi and Tin Can phones. Those devices include limited-capacity smartphones and modern takes on the landline, which Becker said can teach independence, foster friendship, and help parents reach their kids. Theres an attention crisis. Kids are not able to focus in lectures. Kids are not reading books anymore. I think people are sounding the alarm. I think its parents job to do this, Becker said. We are the first line of defense. Medium Rare is not a typical steak house. French lessons in the restrooms, classic rock in the dining room, servers who scribble your order in crayon on your paper-topped table, cheeky messages on the cocktail napkins, Bazooka bubble gum sent out with your check. Advertisement The chain out of Washington has arrived in Fishtown next to Suraya with its steak frites dinners and brunches, and its all prix fixe. Dinner ($32.95) starts with a green salad with a Dijon dressing and a hunk of crusty bread. The main course is six ounces of sliced culotte steak, fanned neatly and topped with a creamy secret sauce, beside a tangle of crispy frites. (Medium Rare is only the name; theyll cook steak to any temperature, and the vegan alternative, at the same price, is a grilled portobello mushroom with fire-roasted pepper sauce.) As you finish, the server will arrive with a tray bearing a second steak portion and more hot frites, which you can eat there or have boxed to take out. Desserts ($12 extra) include oversize hunks of chocolate and carrot cakes and Key lime and apple pie, plus a hot fudge sundae with jimmies (or sprinkles, as you might call them). Based on Medium Rares growth (this is the ninth location), founders Mark Bucher and Tom Gregg are on to something a moderately stylish, clearly unfussy dinner for two, including a cocktail each and a shared dessert, for about $110 plus tax and tip. With the check comes a pen, embossed with Stolen from Medium Rare. Weekend brunch (a fixed $39.95), starting Aug. 16, includes the steak frites and sauce; a Benedict (steak and egg portobello mushroom hash with hollandaise); breakfast sandwich (steak and choice of eggs, fries, and chorizo sausage served on a baguette with secret sauce and hollandaise); steak and eggs; or the house specialty, French toast (soaked for 24 hours in vanilla bean custard) with sausage. Included are juice, coffee, and soda. Mimosas, Bloody Marys, screwdrivers, and a weekly special drink are priced at 25 cents at brunch in Fishtown to comply with Pennsylvania law prohibiting drink giveaways; in other cities, the brunch booze is comped. In a local touch, martini olives at the bar are stuffed with Philadelphia cream cheese. READ MORE: Fishtown and Kensington are hottest restaurant neighborhoods Part of the magic of steak frites restaurants the sector includes Steak Frites DC in Washington, the Steak Room at Rochambeau in Boston, and Stephen Starrs new Chez Frites at the Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City is their secret sauces and the lengths to which home cooks and competitors have gone to try to crack the recipes. Bucher said no one, aside from him and Gregg, knows whats in theirs. (It tastes like an au poivre married to a Steak Diane suggesting butter, cream, cognac, shallots, garlic, maybe dashes of mustard, and Worcestershire.) We have one company that makes what we call the base, which is like a starter, Bucher said. Thats all they know. Then our group and the restaurants finish it, so they have no idea whats coming to them. Its cooked in 20-quart batches. Each restaurant, whose cooks follow printed guides with color references, makes about eight batches a week. Asked to divulge even one sauce ingredient, Bucher replied: Salt and pepper. He did allow that it contains dairy. The sauce is gluten-free, as are the frites themselves, which are made in fryers that never see ingredients containing gluten. Bucher, 56, grew up in Cherry Hill. After getting Cs in public school, his parents sent him to what was St. Marys Hall-Doane Academy in Burlington. My parents said I needed to be a little challenged, Bucher said. That was the best thing that ever happened to me. He went to work in the food industry in the Washington area, though he spent time in Philadelphia in the early 1990s while he and his wife, Amy, invested in Baker Street Breads. His restaurant debut was in 2007 with BGR the Burger Joint in Bethesda, Md. Fifteen years ago, Gregg, who ran a food company called Cuisine Solutions, invited Bucher to go to Paris to help with a cooking event. As a thank you, Bucher said, Gregg took him to his familys favorite restaurant, Le Relais de Venise LEntrecote, whose specialty is prix fixe steak frites. In the middle of that meal, I looked at him and said, You know, we could totally Americanize this and do it back home. And he was like, maybe well do it when I get back. When he got back, we did it. The first Medium Rare opened in 2011 in what was a low-ceilinged Greek restaurant in Washingtons Cleveland Park neighborhood. The formula was the same then, though the price was $19.95. Medium Rare manages beef prices by buying a single cut culotte steak, also the move for Brazilian steak houses on contract. It buys about 2 million pounds a year through the New York butcher Pat LaFrieda, Bucher said. Theyre happy to have our contract because its consistency for them, too, he said. With todays beef prices, theyre getting crushed right now. Bucher and Gregg, who closed a short-lived New Orleans location in March, are considering other openings in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Florida. Several years ago, the partners created the Feed the Fridge program, setting up refrigerators that workers in the Washington-Virginia area stock daily; the program serves 3,600 people a day. Theyre planning to extend the program to Philadelphia. Bucher said growth was calculated. Every independent multiunit operator will tell you they never made more money [than] when they had one restaurant, he said. We do this for a slightly different reason one is to grow and groom staff and people and provide opportunity for folks. Whenever you have a successful business, your successful people need a path to grow forward and if not, they leave. Weve created a company that creates jobs people want, not need. Its one of our philosophies. The average kitchen manager has been with the company for 10 years, he said. Vanessa Quintero, who is overseeing the Fishtown opening, as she does for all new restaurants outside of Washington, started with Medium Rare 12 years ago as a server. I have to continue to provide learning and training, so when the day comes when she leaves me, shes better off than when she met me, Bucher said. Thats when my job is done and shes good. A marinated galbi from Salt Korean BBQ in North Wales. One of the new Devon restaurants will share its theme. Read more High-end Korean dining including an omakase experience not found now in the Philadelphia area will be part of a new restaurant complex opening next year at the landmark building in Devon that housed La Jonquille and Shiraz until their closings two decades ago. Rich Kim and partners, who own the acclaimed Salt Korean BBQ as well as a Chinese-Korean noodle house called Sang Hi in North Wales, closed last week on the purchase of the property at Berkley Road and Lancaster Avenue in Tredyffrin Township. In April, Kim confirmed that he and his partners had filed for a liquor license. Advertisement The sale was not yet listed in Chester County records. Neither Kim nor Paul French, a principal of Avison Young who represented the seller, Matt Vegari, would disclose the sale price. The property, with its distinctive gazebo resembling a kushk facing Lancaster Avenue, had been vacant and on the market for years. Though the asking price was never included in sales brochures, it is believed that Vegari was seeking as much as $13 million. Vegari, a neurosurgeon who conceived La Jonquille and Shiraz as a passion project 25 years ago, did not reply to text messages seeking comment. Kim and partners are planning Salt Korean Barbecue Steakhouse, a fine-dining Korean restaurant with tabletop cooking, on one side of the first floor of the two-story building. In another section, they plan a Korean omakase experience offering high-end meat, including Japanese wagyu. Kim cited two Korean restaurants in New York Oiji Mi and its sibling, bom, which each has a Michelin star as inspiration, though he said his omakase would serve Korean dishes exclusively. Also planned on the first floor is a fast-casual Korean concept with food at a lower price point. The second floor, whose restaurant has not been named, will be dedicated to sushi and also offer an omakase experience. All told, the restaurants will employ 70 to 80 people full and part time, Kim said. Though some of the over-the-top decor will be preserved, Kim said, were going to flip it upside down. People will be wowed. He intends to lease out a second building, which previously housed a spa and aestheticians office. Kim said he had been searching for restaurant space on the Main Line for a while with his brokers, Christopher Giovanisci and James Creed of CBRE. I knew right away he was the right guy, French, who represented Vegari, said. He was the only prospective buyer with a plan to repurpose the site rather than demolish it. Parking also was a draw. The site has at least 130 spaces, and to get that amount of parking on the Main Line is almost impossible, French said. The sale took more than a year from Kims first walk-through to settlement, French said. In his 2000 review of La Jonquille, the French restaurant on the first floor, Inquirer critic Craig LaBan called it the pinnacle of gaudy excess panels of padded fabric on walls of padded fabric, and that Versailles-size chandelier. Its a doozy, but Id hate to clean it. (Kim said he was not sure if he would incorporate it in his design.) La Jonquilles six-course menu was priced at $105 about $200 in todays dollars. Vegari designed Shiraz, the Persian restaurant and banquet room upstairs with hand-hammered murals and hand-painted tile, to showcase the cuisine of his childhood in Iran. After what Vegari described at the time as a small kitchen fire and management issues, the restaurants closed in 2001. Starting in 2003, Shiraz reopened in fits and starts before the complex closed permanently a few years later. Parts of it were subdivided into offices. A traveling clinic run by Remote Area Medical will bring its free medical, dental, and vision services to Philadelphia this weekend. Read more A pop-up clinic that regularly draws overnight queues is bringing its free medical services to Philadelphia this weekend. The mobile clinic, run by Tennessee-based nonprofit Remote Area Medical, has been traveling the country since 1985. It offers free dental, vision, and medical services, including womens health and preventive screenings, along with eyeglasses made on the spot. To make services as accessible as possible, no ID or insurance is required. Advertisement This year will be the clinics third time in Philadelphia, thanks to a partnership with DentMed Inc., a local nonprofit dedicated to organizing free mobile clinics, and the Philadelphia Sheriffs Office. The event is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday starting at 6 a.m. at 4021 Parkside Ave. in West Philadelphia. Patients are seen on a first come, first served basis until capacity is reached. Usually, this number is in the hundreds. We will serve as many people as we can, as long as we have the providers, said Sandra Hall, a clinic coordinator at Remote Area Medical. The nonprofit has found that, in a country where millions are uninsured or underinsured, free healthcare can draw lines as long as highly anticipated launches of new consumer products. One in 14 Philadelphia residents lacks insurance. The parking lot opens at midnight the night before so people can line up before doors open. Remote Area Medical cared for 36,000 patients in 2024, and is set to see its millionth patient since it opened by the end of this year. To learn more about the nonprofits work, The Inquirer spoke with Hall, who is coordinating the clinic in Philadelphia. The following conversation has been edited for length and clarity. What are the most popular services requested? Typically, the most common service requested is dental services. Many people, even if they have health insurance, may not have dental insurance. If they do, they may have a larger co-pay or deductible. Its not uncommon to see people who, for instance, havent been to the dentist or an eye doctor in 10 years or more. Vision services are also popular. Eyeglasses are expensive, and even if they have insurance, typically a pair of glasses is not fully covered. So when they come to a Remote Area Medical event, they can get free glasses on the spot. Why do you not ask for ID or insurance? We just dont want to have any barriers to the care that we offer. So regardless of your situation, we will see anyone who comes. Our mission is to prevent pain and alleviate suffering, and we do that by providing free, quality dental, vision, and medical services throughout the country. How has your organization changed since 1985? We initially provided care in different ways, even internationally. We would parachute medical supplies into very remote areas, hence the name Remote Area Medical. Our operation has changed somewhat since COVID. We have definitely seen a need for healthcare throughout the country. Its just growing, as people are either uninsured or underinsured. We are here to meet those needs. How is demand for your services usually? I was just at a clinic this past weekend, and we had someone arrive at 7 p.m. the day before the clinic started. Thats not unusual. We see that quite often at the clinics that we do, especially if theyre familiar with how we operate. They know that its first come, first served, and they want to be first in line, so they come as early as they can. But once they enter the parking lot, they cannot leave or they forfeit their ticket. So they need to be prepared with food, medicine, water, whatever they may need for the overnight hours if they do come early. If someone only arrived in the morning, would it still be possible for them to get a spot? Its entirely possible. Its really difficult to say. Each city is different. All we ever promise is that we see people in the order that they arrive. So first come, first served, as long as we have capacity at the clinic. Architectural renderings of a proposed Rocky statue installation at Philadelphia Airport. The Department of Aviation is exploring the purchase of a third Rocky statue from artist A. Thomas Schomberg. Read more Rocky has plenty of sequels now the iconic Rocky statue is getting one, too. Philadelphia is set to be home to a second statue of the famed movie prizefighter after the citys art commission voted unanimously this week to install the artwork inside Philadelphia International Airport. Advertisement As it turns out, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Rocky statue isnt the only contender out there. The second statue, a 10-foot-tall bronze casting, is one of three originals created by the artist A. Thomas Schomberg. The Philadelphia Department of Aviation conceived of a plan to purchase the statue using airport funds in 2024 after learning it was up for sale, according to a memo viewed by The Inquirer. The Department realized that this was a unique opportunity to enhance the guest experience by purchasing an iconic statue that is solely associated with the City of Philadelphia by its residents and people from near and far who travel to Philly to partake in its celebrity and story of triumph, the memo says. With Schombergs guidance, aviation department officials decided the statue will be positioned past security in the airports Terminal A-West, where thousands of domestic and international travelers regularly pass by. The location on the terminals second-floor concourse was chosen for its vaulted ceiling and dramatic backdrop of the airfield, according to the memo, as well as its clean and modern appearance and lack of advertising. The city intends to purchase the artwork for a sum that was not disclosed within the memo. It will then become part of Philadelphias permanent public art collection. In July, Creative Philadelphia, the citys office for the creative sector, wrote a letter urging the Philadelphia Art Commission to consider its support of the proposal. Bringing the beloved Rocky statue to the airport is a fantastic way to celebrate our citys rich culture in a space that welcomes travelers from across the country and around the world, wrote Marguerite Anglin, Creative Philadelphias public art director. The statues placement at the airport will make this significant work accessible to those who are traveling through the airport, but may not have opportunity to visit our city to see the other cast of Rocky at the Philadelphia Art Museum, Anglin said. Creative Philadelphia intends to assist Philadelphia International Airport in drafting a conservation plan for the statue following its installation, according to Anglin. Schomberg, the 82-year-old sculptor behind the original Rocky statues, created the artworks in 1980 ahead of Rocky IIIs release. Schomberg collaborated with Sylvester Stallone, who depicted the boxer in the original 1976 film and its sequels. The third Rocky statue is owned by Stallone, according to Schombergs website. A display describing the lives of enslaved people on the site where one of George Washington's homes once stood in Independence National Historical Park. Read more Why cant this country tolerate telling the truth about slavery publicly for more than a few short years at a time? That was one of the first thoughts that occurred to me when I learned the Trump administration wants to censor historical content across the National Park Service system that doesnt promote greatness or progress. Advertisement On the chopping block at our own Independence National Historical Park are displays at the Presidents House at Sixth and Market documenting the brutish enslavement of Africans by the nations founders. The administrations moves are yet another example of a historical pattern in which our nation holds these hard truths in the light for approximately a decade before running from them again like lily-livered cowards. At Independence Mall, its been 15 years. In 2002, I was part of the team of scholars and activists pressuring the park service to honestly interpret the history of George and Martha Washington as enslavers. Park management and staff had known of this history and the general location of the Presidents House where it occurred since the 1970s. Nevertheless, it remained reluctant to tell it at Independence Mall, where, as one park historian assured me, We have 60,000 visitors every year from the South. I wondered then whether he thought the visiting Southerners somehow didnt know about American slavery. The best option the park service had come up with was to relegate the story of the Washingtons and slavery to the Deshler-Morris House in Germantown. Sharing this history in a predominantly African American residential neighborhood seemed good enough to those making the decision even though the Washington household had lived there for no more than a few months during the 1793 yellow fever epidemic. READ MORE: Telling and preserving the full story of American history is our obligation to the ancestors who never lost faith | Opinion But Black activists and public advocacy groups demanded a location with greater exposure, and after eight years of unrelenting effort to clear ever-more-imaginative roadblocks, the history made it into the public eye in 2010, on the site where the Washingtons lived in front of the modern Liberty Bell Center. The Presidents House site today is not all that it could have been, not by a mile, but it remains one of the most prominent monuments in the nation to openly acknowledge how much American liberty depended on African slavery. That 15 years later, the truth is again under threat repeats a shameful American pattern. From 1776 to 1787, we were a land trying to be born on the principles of the Declaration of Independence. But 11 years was enough liberty, it seemed, and we fell back to a constitutional design that protected and sustained wealth inequality and the slavery that sustained it. Eleven years, and it was back to the beginning. Fast-forward to 1865, when slavery was legally abolished at the cost of every drop of blood drawn by the lash paid for with one drawn by the sword, in Abraham Lincolns eloquent and humble words. This time, too, national commitment to liberty and justice for all lasted 11 years. That decade hosted an explosion of Black autonomy and achievement, with schools founded everywhere in the defeated Confederacy, voters in formerly Confederate states electing Black men to local, state, and federal offices, newspapers springing up all over North and South encouraging freed people toward education, land ownership, church membership, and entrepreneurship. Black men and women gathered everywhere in conventions, successfully petitioning President Ulysses S. Grant and (less successfully) Congress for protection from white racist attacks designed to demoralize them and repossess their growing wealth. READ MORE: Under Trumps assault, Black educators must preserve history | Opinion After 12 years, the Republican Party agreed in the Compromise of 1877 to stop protecting Black civil rights with the U.S. Army, leaving white supremacist state governments to manage their own affairs. By sacrificing Black safety, prosperity, and human rights, Republicans secured the presidency for Rutherford B. Hayes (the popular vote loser). White supremacists quickly disenfranchised Black men, seized Black-owned property, burned Black-owned schools, ramped up their campaign of lynching, and won endorsement from the U.S. Supreme Court for legal segregation. Decades of Jim Crow oppression that followed could not undo the memories of those years of jubilee. Black-run schools continued to turn out courageous young people inspired with dignity, Black churches grew into communities capable of supporting change, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) kept up its relentless legal crusade against Jim Crow. Violence pushed and economic opportunity pulled African Americans toward the Northern states, where new ideas and experiences, both bad and good, charged the fight for freedom. As it had in the revolution and the Civil War, military service gave Black men (and, at last, women) opportunities for education, homeownership, and proudly patriotic reasons to claim their countrys support. In 1954, when the NAACP won the landmark ruling in Brown v. Board of Education that struck down legal segregation, and when the women and men of Montgomery, Ala., banded together to strike down segregation on their buses, the wheel began to turn again. It took 10 years, bloodshed, great courage, and determination, but at last the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 rewrote the legal landscape of American race relations. Also in 1965, the Immigration and Nationality Act offered enterprising people the world over the first opportunity not constrained by racial and national quotas to bring their strength and visions to the American Experiment. This change lasted long enough to generate backlash against both civil rights and immigration, mounting steadily since 1980. Back home in Philadelphia, in 2010, Independence National Historical Park lived up to the ringing assertion that all of us are created equal and unveiled its acknowledgment that African Americans longing for liberty belonged in the nations historic square mile. But it looks like 15 years of truth-telling will again be as much as we can stand. This is regressing. Trump is remodeling us into weak-kneed shiverers, liars who cant even acknowledge the historical errors we have made. So let us stand tall and ask, what on earth is disparaging to any Americans to say, as the panels at the Presidents House do, that Ona Judges strong desire for liberty led her, at 22, to seize and hold her freedom, categorically rejecting enslavement to the Washingtons? Isnt that what Americans pride ourselves on, our longing for liberty and the courage to seize it? Isnt that exactly what were setting up to celebrate here next year? What is inappropriately disparaging about noticing, as another panel does, that Black and white leaders together celebrated the raising of Black churches in our city? Why should anyone hang their head to learn that Benjamin Rush, one of the citys leading white medical men, affirmed, May African churches everywhere soon succeed? What could possibly be more American than fulfilling the First Amendment right to religious liberty? And who among us is too fragile to give thanks for the heroic efforts of Richard Allen and his team of generous Black citizens who stood up to cope with dead and dying Philadelphians of all sorts during the yellow fever epidemic of 1793? The only right response to their work is gratitude and honor. No one is disparaged by offering it. Rather, in turning away from the truths of our history, we shame our ancestors. Our nations founders couldnt see a path forward without legalizing the catastrophic moral error of slavery. Through multiple compromises that supported the slavery system, they kept the U.S. Constitution unsullied by the word slavery itself, leaving to later generations the work of fixing their founding error. Now, one dishonest traitor convicted of 34 felonies tells us he wants us to silence the many voices that pushed the nation toward justice over its 250 years, and retreat from the truths we have worked so hard to bring forth. If we do so, if we give an inch on this, we disparage only ourselves. Sharon Ann Holt was the editor of the Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography when it published Edward Lawlers findings about the Presidents House inhabitants, location, and architecture in the January 2002 issue. In 2023, she retired from Penn State Abington, where she taught history and public history. Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA), the statutory body responsible for regulating Lesothos communications sector, has announced a strategic partnership with CTM360, a leading name in digital risk protection. This collaboration, says LCA, marks a significant milestone in advancing cybersecurity capabilities and strengthening digital infrastructure in the communications sector in Lesotho. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed, laying the foundation for a joint initiative aimed at bolstering the Lesotho communications sectors defence against evolving cyberthreats. The primary partnership empowers LCA with real-time threat visibility into cyber risks targeting Lesothos critical infrastructure. Through CTM360s consolidated cybersecurity stack, the initiative will enable proactive detection, continuous monitoring, and mitigation of digital threats across the communications sector. Mr Mirza Asrar Baig, the CEO of CTM360, describes the collaboration as a joint commitment to safeguard Lesothos critical infrastructure which includes MNOs, ISPs, and other essential communication sectors. This MoU also facilitates comprehensive external cybersecurity assessments for LCA and its licensees, leveraging CTM360s advanced threat intelligence and monitoring capabilities. These assessments will support both reactive and preventative strategies for managing cyber risks. As the CEO of LCA, Mr Nizam Goolam, points out: This partnership comes at a critical time as we navigate the complexities of a fast-evolving digital landscape. By joining forces with CTM360, we are taking a proactive step to strengthen the communication sectors cybersecurity resilience and ensure the protection of key systems. Philadelphia's Sadie T. M. Alexander (standing with glasses), the first Black woman to earn a law degree at the University of Pennsylvania, signs a petition calling for fair employment practices in department stores in 1947. Read more Christopher R. Rogers knows how hard it is to stop the past from collapsing especially when it comes to the rich tapestry of African American history. For nearly four years, the Haverford College visiting assistant professor of writing has been deeply involved with the floorboard-by-floorboard campaign to save a once-dilapidated home in Philadelphias Strawberry Mansion neighborhood that launched a Black cultural and political empire in the late 19th and 20th centuries. Rogers is co-coordinator of Friends of the Tanner House, which is successfully working to save the small home on Diamond Street near Fairmount Park where the groundbreaking Black artist Henry Ossawa Tanner began painting his masterpieces from 1872 to 1888. But the Tanner House remained the center of Philadelphias Black intellectual life long after the painter decamped for Paris, largely because of racial prejudice in America. Advertisement It was also here that Tanners niece Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander lived while earning her economics doctorate at the University of Pennsylvania in 1921, on her path to becoming the first Black woman to earn a law degree at the Ivy League school in 1927. And after that, a pioneering lawyer fighting for civil rights in the mid-20th century. Now, some 36 years after her death, Alexander has unexpectedly become one flashpoint in a fast-spreading battle over who gets to tell Americas story, and how. It was just last month that city officials announced a plan for a bronze statue of Alexander to be placed on the apron of the Municipal Services Building, not far from where the statue of the racially divisive 1970s Mayor Frank Rizzo was removed. The Rizzo removal and a city push for new statues of Alexander and other Black pioneers reflects the momentum for a more inclusive and more accurate version of history that was prompted by the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement. But last week, Alexanders legacy felt the stiff headwinds of racial backlash. As the University of Pennsylvania comes under intense pressure from the Donald Trump regime to drop diversity programs, Penn Carey Law School stunned Philadelphias civil rights community with word that its pausing the Dr. Sadie T.M. Alexander Scholarship, a free-tuition program that was also announced in the wake of the 2020 protests. The law school is also closing its equal opportunity office, just days after the university announced a deal with the Trump White House to restore research funding and bar transgender athletes in womens sports. This week, Rogers who earned his doctorate from Penns School of Education said he was deeply disappointed in the latest move from a university that he accused of an Orwellian doublespeak from administrators, who hail racial diversity despite a track record of rocky relations with its predominantly Black neighbors in West Philadelphia. We know that [Alexanders] legacy stands for civil rights, Rogers said. It stands for justice, it stands for equity, it stands for democracy, it stands for knowledge. And so, if they are invested in those things, it definitely is surprising to see them in some ways sell out Penn Carey hasnt offered any detailed explanation of why it announced the pause, which means no Alexander scholarships will be offered in the new academic year, although current scholarship holders will still be supported. The law school said in a statement to my Inquirer colleague Susan Snyder that details about the programs future will be shared as the Law School continues to assess next steps. But this didnt happen in a vacuum. The pause in a program honoring Penns first Black female law degree recipient is just one skirmish in a broader push by the Trump regime to write an entirely new draft of U.S. history that epitomizes his personalist, strongman rule by highlighting what the president calls American greatness. The flip side of that relentlessly positive rewrite is to whitewash any blemishes on our national story especially around slavery, Jim Crow segregation, and other race-related injustice. Shortly after taking office, Trump claimed in an executive order that Washingtons flagship federal historical museum, the Smithsonian Institution, had come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology. Now, the Trump administration has ordered a sweeping review of all the Smithsonians exhibits and permanent collections aimed at what the New York Times called a more uplifting view of American history. Historians fear the real purpose is sanitizing the truth about a nation that blazed a trail for democracy, even as it also dropped atomic bombs, rounded up Japanese Americans into camps, and drove Indigenous people from their land. The battle for the heart and soul of the Smithsonian is part of a broader crusade that is also looking at removing references to slavery or other stains on the American Experiment from a range of federal historical sites, including many in Philadelphia, such as Independence Hall and the Presidents House, where enslaved Black people worked for George Washington. Perhaps more significantly, Trump has pushed since his first presidency for a similar version of U.S. history to be taught in the classroom. READ MORE: George Floyds 2020 murder promised a racial reckoning. Instead, we got Trump | Will Bunch Its important not to dismiss the regimes intense interest in the American story as a hobby. As anyone who has read George Orwells 1984 and internalized one of its most famous quotes Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past. knows, throwing hard facts down a memory hole and spinning historical fiction is central to the authoritarian project. Indeed, it was the backlash whipped up among mostly white voters after those 2020 protests over the police murder of George Floyd the ones who took down Rizzos statue and raised up the Alexander scholarships at Penn that Trump rode to his unlikely second term in the 2024 election. A key thought leader for Trumps MAGA movement, Christopher Rufo, manufactured the idea that what he called indoctrination about the American story was behind the marches for racial justice that terrified a swath of white America. That movement for a racial reckoning was, in many ways, epitomized by the drive to resurrect the nearly forgotten story of Alexander and the grit she displayed in earning a law degree when there were few such opportunities in a heavily segregated society. Alexander herself once said that in law school at Penn, I was met with many obstacles, but I was strong enough then not to let them worry me. This is said to have included a dean who treated her with discrimination and tried unsuccessfully to keep Alexander off the law review. The prejudice she encountered at Penn in the 1920s inspired her career as a lawyer who crusaded for civil rights, fighting segregation in Chester County schools, Philadelphias public facilities, and even the U.S. military. This tale of overcoming adversity is what inspires todays activists like Rogers to fight not only to save the Tanner House from the wrecking ball, but hopefully to again make it a center for Black thought and community activism. Its not just the story of bricks and mortar, he said. It is a story of our African American history, of the obstacles that we have faced and how we have relied on community, relied on a sense of values of equity and justice to be able to sort of transcend those conditions in the small ways that we do, to serve as models of possibility for the type of world that we want to see come into being. Rogers said Trumps campaign of historical erasure and Penns seeming capitulation make Alexanders story more important than ever, because this is where we have to come together and fight for it. You know, theyre not going to be given, right? These are the things that we have to come together and fight for. The war for American history matters not only because facts matter, but also more concretely Trump and his MAGA minions know that a fake version of where our country has been will make it easier to sell a twisted vision of where they think it needs to go, including the inhumane mass deportation of immigrants, a militarized and brutal brand of law and order in U.S. cities, and a government that looks just like the tyrannical monarchy we overthrew starting exactly 250 years ago. In that world, the real story of American greatness Black and brown people, Native Americans, the LGBTQ community, and so many others on the margins fighting for 249 years to make an imperfect democracy work for everyone becomes an inconvenient truth. Its a world where the essential story of Sadie T.M. Alexander can be paused. And as the big institutions like Penn cower, we the people must fight to keep it alive. READ MORE: SIGN UP: The Will Bunch Newsletter Lithuania's Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene walks with, from right, Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, during a formal inauguration of a German brigade for NATO's eastern flank in Vilnius, Lithuania, in May. Read more Europeans understand the aggressive mindset of Vladimir Putin in a way President Donald Trump does not. After all, many of their nations experienced brutal Soviet occupation during the Cold War. So one can only hope the Wednesday call between Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and European leaders all of whom are excluded from Trumps Alaska summit on Friday with Putin made an impact. And that Trump will not be bamboozled by Putins flattery and lies to make unrequited concessions over Ukraines head. Advertisement European leaders believe this summit, if handled badly, could have historic consequences extending far beyond Ukraine, and boost the chances of a much wider war in the future. A war on several fronts, involving not just Europe and Russia but also China, the United States, and Americas Indo-Pacific allies. For a fuller picture, I turned to Lithuanias minister of national defense, Dovile Sakaliene, one of a handful of brilliant young female leaders from the Baltics. She was in Pennsylvania visiting the Pennsylvania National Guard, which takes part in a partnership program with Lithuania that involves collaboration on cyber defense and development of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones) and anti-UAV systems. The partnership also involves exchanges and joint exercises, for which Vilnius has just built new barracks for visiting guard forces. Sakaliene was blunt. This is a high-stakes summit, she said, not only for Ukraine, Europe, and the United States, but for the world. The White House wants peace but conceding to Russia has never brought peace. Concessions to Putin would be a full guarantor of war. She added, emphatically: Putin does not want peace. Centuries of experience with Russia have taught us that Russia follows a path of annihilation of its neighbors instead of resolving its own problems. We see how occupied territories are treated. When the Soviets occupied my country, 20% of families were either imprisoned, murdered, or sent to Siberia. Id add that U.S. proposals to legally concede Crimea and eastern Ukraine to Putin, or hand him land he doesnt yet control, ignore the brutal way Moscow has treated Ukrainians in territories it has seized. Ive spoken extensively with escapees from occupied Ukraine, who fled a Russian ban on public use of the Ukrainian language, imprisonment of teachers and priests, torture of dissidents, forced recruitment of youths to fight fellow Ukrainians and the murder of tens of thousands of civilians. So when Trump talks about occupied Ukrainian land on the Azov or Black Seas as valuable sea property, Europeans know occupation isnt about real estate but about brutal repression of Ukrainian citizens. Moreover, Russia presents a long-term military threat to NATO, as Sakaliene explained. Russias war against Ukraine is a critical moment in history, she said. Russia has the capabilities and willingness to wage war against us. The only thing that is missing is the momentum. Putin has built up Russias military spending to the point where the whole Russian economy is based on war. Moscows defense spending for 2024 has been increased by 25%, Sakaliene noted, which constitutes 32% of the total federal budget, the highest since the Cold War. Russia is constantly testing our deterrence and resilience through increasingly bold and destabilizing activities, she added, citing large-scale exercises on European borders, GPS jamming, sabotage of crucial underwater cables in the Baltic Sea, and cyberattacks. (Not to mention assassination attempts on European soil.) Its important to note that Putin constantly talks about reconstituting the Russian empire. His imperial appetite extends to all or parts of several NATO countries that were once under Soviet or Russian control, or contain Russian speakers. This has forced the alliance to approve defense plans for its entire eastern flank, based on the assumption that every inch of NATO territory will be defended against Russian attack, and assuming (nervously) that the United States would support this effort. The at-risk territory includes a strip of land running along Lithuanias border with Poland, known as the Suwalki corridor, which, if seized, would entirely cut the Baltic states off from the rest of NATO. Many analysts believe that corridor might be the first new land grab Putin would attempt if Ukraine fell, to prove that NATO was toothless. If there were no substantive response, he could move on other European targets. The outcome of Russian aggression in Ukraine and the U.S. position regarding Putin will either have a deterrent effect or a motivational effect on whether Putin moves against NATO, the minister said. But what she said next should be a wake-up call to all Americans, whether or not the U.S. president grasps the threat. Europe and the Indo-Pacific are connected in a negative way, she said. A Putin triumph in Ukraine could speed up a Chinese decision to attack Taiwan, drawing the U.S. into direct conflict with Beijing. In that case, as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also argues, China would likely ask its junior partner, Russia, to open another front in Europe to distract the West. Australia, Singapore, South Korea, and Japan also fear such a multifront conflict could break out. The more fronts that are open, the more toxic the combination of hybrid and conventional warfare mixed by Xi Jinping and Putin, the more challenging it will be for us, Sakaliene said especially since the new defense structures Europe and NATO are building will take several years to solidify. No matter its isolationist bent, the United States would inevitably be involved. The outcome between Putin and Ukraine will be one of the most critical factors that will determine whether this confrontation comes sooner or later, the minister warned. By Friday night, we will have a flashing signal of whether Putin and Xi have been encouraged or deterred. The Center for Individual Freedom is running ads on Meta thanking members of Congress who voted for President Trump's tax cuts. They ran two featuring Pennsylvania lawmakers Brian Fitzpatrick (R., Bucks) and Dwight Evans (D., Philadelphia) who voted against the bill. Read more U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans is getting thank-yous 1,700 miles outside of his Philadelphia district for voting for a bill he actually opposed. A conservative dark money group, the Center for Individual Freedom, last month began running ads on Meta and Instagram thanking lawmakers for voting for Trumps tax cuts, one of many provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill, which also included cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. President Donald Trump signed the sweeping legislation into law last month. Advertisement But the group appears to have been a little sloppy in its research. One ad thanks U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans, a Philadelphia Democrat who voted against the bill and who railed against the legislation in the days leading up to its passage. The ad is running digitally in Colorado, the home state of U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans, a Republican who supported the bill. The messaging war on Trumps signature legislation has been in full force with outside groups running trying to persuade voters of the cases for or against the bill. The ad, which started running July 17 and received an estimated 100,000 to 500,000 impressions, says Pennsylvania Thanks You. But according to Metas ad library, it ran online in Colorado. I want Philadelphians to know that I voted NO on the Trump-Republican budget bill, both in the full House and in the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, Evans the Philadelphia one said to The Inquirer. ...And for the record, Im also not the retired Boston Red Sox player hes a different Dwight Evans. The mix-ups dont end there. The Center for Individual Freedom, which did not return a request for comment, also ran an ad thanking U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Bucks County Republican who was one of just two GOP representatives to vote against the bill on final passage. Its unclear if that ad was also a mistake or an intentional misrepresentation of Fitzpatricks vote to connect him to the tax cuts, a broadly popular part of the legislation. Fitzpatrick, who defended his vote against the bill, citing harmful Medicaid cuts, did not respond to a request for comment on the ad. He voted for an earlier version of the bill when it passed the House by one vote in May. Over the past few weeks lawmakers on their August recess have been blanketing social media with messaging about the legislation. Several held events related to the bill. U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R., Pa.) touted how the bill could benefit farmers at an event at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau in Pottsville, where Americans for Prosperity, a conservative policy group, gave away gift cards to the farm store. U.S. Reps. Rob Bresnahan and Ryan Mackenzie, two freshman Pennsylvania Republicans, teamed up with House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain of Michigan to tour manufacturing plants in their districts, where they highlighted critical wins for workers in the One Big Beautiful Bill. U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, a Democrat who represents Chester and Berks Counties, stopped at a dental office in Pottstown and a trauma hospital in Reading, where she decried the damaging effects the Medicaid cuts could have. Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner speaks at a news conference outside the Philadelphia Field Office for Immigration Customs Enforcement in Center City in support of legislation that aims to prohibit any law enforcement officer or ICE agent from wearing facial coverings. Read more Philadelphia Democratic officials are trying to send a clear message to ICE. Standing outside the Philadelphia field office of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Center City on a hot Thursday morning, state lawmakers, immigration activists, and District Attorney Larry Krasner flanked by signs that said No Secret Police or Spot the difference, burglar, bandit, ICE said that ICE needs more transparency and accountability as the agency carries out President Donald Trumps plans for mass deportation. Advertisement Democratic State Sens. Nikil Saval and Amanda Cappelletti led a news conference Thursday about their impending legislation that aims to do just that. The bill, called No Secret Police: Unmask ICE, would prohibit law enforcement officers or ICE agents from wearing facial coverings, one of the many legislative efforts nationwide responding to reports and images of ICE agents masking during raids. All of us have rights to dignity, to safety, and to due process, said Saval, who represents parts of Philadelphia. To have heavily armed, masked, unidentifiable individuals roaming our public spaces, our work sites, and our residential blocks, kidnapping people off the streets, disappearing our neighbors, terrorizes our communities and violates these basic, vital rights. The Philadelphia area has been subjected to ICE raids in recent months, with agents targeting people at their workplaces, at courthouses, or in their communities. But there is no federal law governing the use of facial coverings in law enforcement, so its up to individual states, Saval said. The legislation, according to a memo circulated to members of the Pennsylvania Senate on July 24, also aims to deter individuals from impersonating an officer or agent. The Pennsylvania House has companion legislation to Saval and Cappellettis bill. Other states, like California, are working on similar legislation, and Democrats in the U.S. Congress introduced a bill also called No Secret Police. Krasner said Thursday that he has seen two cases of people impersonating ICE agents to carry out really serious crimes, something he said he had never seen before in the city. In June, police arrested a man who allegedly impersonated an ICE agent and zip-tied a woman during a robbery in Mayfair. In February, three individuals were charged with impersonating ICE on Temple Universitys campus. We know this is a terrible idea to create confusion between law enforcement and criminals, Krasner said, noting that Saval and Cappellettis bill is absolutely necessary. Outside Pennsylvania, a man who authorities say impersonated a law enforcement officer in Minnesota is charged with assassinating State Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband and attacking State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. The Pennsylvania lawmakers cited this case as one of the reasons to require ICE and other law enforcement agents to operate with greater transparency. The bill would require officers or agents during the course of their duties to visibly display a badge with name, number, and department or agency and to wear a department-issued uniform. They would be prohibited from wearing facial coverings, masks, or other garments that obscure their identity. Exceptions could be made for undercover officers or agents. Individuals could also wear a surgical mask or an N95 respirator if deemed necessary by a doctor or a broad health emergency declaration. Noncompliance with these policies could result in civil or criminal action, according to the memo. One of the many reasons that Im here today is because the reality that we find ourselves in was once unimaginable and is now wholly unacceptable, said Cappelletti, who represents parts of Delaware and Montgomery Counties. Erika Guadalupe Nunez, executive director of Juntos, an immigrant rights advocacy group, expressed a similar sentiment and said she has witnessed things that shocked her. ICE is operating with no oversight, emboldened by a fascist agenda and with resources and funding on the scale of entire armies, Guadalupe Nunez said. Republicans hold a majority in the Pennsylvania Senate, which suggests the legislation may face an uphill battle, but Saval said Thursday that they believe there is broad public support for this that will hopefully translate into support among their colleagues. In Pennsylvanias state House, Democratic Rep. Rick Krajewski of Philadelphia is a sponsor of the companion legislation to Saval and Cappellettis. This fight will be in Harrisburg, it will be in City Hall, and it will be on our blocks, he said Thursday. One of those fights could manifest over Philadelphia being on the Trump administrations list of so-called sanctuary jurisdictions, meaning the city could be targeted for a refusal to help enforce federal immigration laws. To my immigrant neighbors, know that we have your back, Krajewski said. We are here with you. Were in solidarity with you, and we will keep each other safe. Daniel Lukich (pictured) is going to London in September and the questions hes looking to answer are of considerable interest to brokers in the intermediated motor insurance space. Lukich is strategic relationship manager for AAMC, one of Australias largest providers of motor accident management services. In recent years hes raised industry awareness around the challenges facing the intermediated motor space and its claims process. Lukich and some brokers say this process, with its multiple touch points, can be very slow compared to the claims process for directly sold motor cover. Hes in London to investigate how different firms across the UKs motor ecosystem deal with this challenge. McLoughlin will formally step down as chairman of Suncorp Group on 25 September, following the announcement of her retirement in June. She has served as chairman for seven years and has been a member of the board for a decade. The brokerage issued the following statement: "This lawsuit represents a perverse attempt by Vesttoos bankruptcy estate to shift responsibility for Vesttoos deliberate fraud to Aon, one of the frauds biggest victims. Vesttoo has already acknowledged in its own investigative report that executives of the company, along with other co-conspirators, were responsible for the fraud and intentionally sought to mislead Aon and other impacted parties. We will vigorously defend Aon against these meritless claims and continue to take steps to both maximize recoveries for our clients and strengthen standards across our industry. The launch comes as AXIS makes a series of senior appointments in its global markets division aimed at sharpening underwriting performance across its specialty lines. Sarah Stephen has been promoted to head of liability, taking charge of the general liability and international casualty MGA teams in London. She reports to Dax Gulmohamed, who has expanded his remit to oversee all global markets liability alongside his existing roles in professional lines and as CEO of AXIS Specialty Europe SE. An exclusive carbon delivery insurance policy developed by CFC was incorporated into the financing structure. The product, which did not exist 18 months ago, was mandated by the lending panel as a condition of the deal. CFC said the requirement underlines the role insurance can play in enabling transactions in the voluntary carbon market, particularly in blended climate finance models. Net realized and unrealized investment gains for the first half were $12.6 million, including $5.6 million in net unrealized gains from the hedge fund portfolio. The annualized operating return on average equity for the first half was (2.6)%, compared with 12.1% in the prior-year period. Book value per diluted common share stood at $22.04 at the end of June, up from $21.79 at year-end 2024. MS&AD said it has been exploring an opportunity to further improve its capital efficiency and accepted a share purchase proposal from Dai-ichi Life Holdings at a sufficient premium over Challengers current stock price, according to earlier reports. The 2026 edition will highlight the insurance leaders whove driven innovation, delivered results, and led with purpose and theres still time to get involved. "For decades, flood insurance has been an afterthought for many property owners something they dont think about until a lender requires it, and despite the increasing risks posed by climate change and urban expansion, many homeowners still opt out of coverage unless mandated, said Patty Templeton-Jones, president and chief program advocate of Wright Flood Areas that didnt flood are now flooding. Is it climate change? Absolutely. But I think even bigger than that is just they're putting structures and concrete where green space was. ... I don't think that is handled as well as it could be. The court found that the purchase agreement allowed Gallagher to operate the acquired business for its own interests and did not impose additional operational obligations on Agiato. It also said the earnout was not contingent on his continued employment, entitling the sellers to the $50 million first-year payment plus prejudgment interest, compounded quarterly. The case traces back to 2019, when Victory sold its book of workers compensation business to Clear Spring Property and Casualty Company. According to court documents, Victory claimed it called each affected business to inform them of the sale. However, the only written communication came on Dec. 31, 2019, when Victory emailed policyholders to say their coverage had been upgraded to a Clear Spring policy, effective the very next day. On Jan. 1, 2020, all the policies in question were rewritten under Clear Spring. Sapiens shareholders will receive $43.50 per share in cash, representing a 47.5% premium over Tuesdays closing price of $29.50. The company will become privately held once the transaction is completed. Existing shareholder Formula systems will retain a minority stake and said it plans to work with Advent to advance Sapiens transition to AI and software as a service. A large-scale workers compensation fraud and tax evasion scheme that came to light when an employee was killed while removing a sign from a brewery has resulted in the sentencing of a construction firm owner. According to New York State Inspector General Lucy Lang, Quirino Rotondo, owner of Metro Industrial Wrecking & Environmental Construction in Dix Hills, was recently sentenced to a year in prison and two years of supervised release and ordered to pay $1.2 million in restitution for his role in the scheme. Rotondos sentencing came following a joint investigation by the Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Specifically, Rotondo was ordered to pay $174,070 to the New York State Insurance Fund; $546,562 to the IRS; and $515,173 to Continental Insurance. The joint investigation revealed that as a way to obtain lower premiums, Rotondo falsely classified high-risk demolition workers as low-risk employees and claimed they were performing clerical, carpentry, or painting work when applying for workers compensation insurance. Rotondo also insured his workers under a network of unrelated companies, effectively shielding his own business from liability while placing workers at risk. Federal prosecutors said the scheme had serious consequences. In 2018, William Villatoro of Bay Shore, a 44-year-old worker for one of Rotondos companies, died from injuries suffered while using a gas-powered demolition saw to remove signage at a defunct MillerCoors plant in North Carolina. When Villatoros estate sought damages, Continental Insurance and the New York State Insurance Fund uncovered that Rotondos employees, including the victim, had not been properly listed under the companys insurance leading to denied claims, delayed treatment, and postponed death benefits. The investigation also found that Rotondo failed to file individual or corporate tax returns from 2016 to 2019, despite earning more than $2.6 million in taxable income. Topics Workers' Compensation The Hanover Appoints Mitchell President of Technology and Life Sciences Business The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc., headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts, appointed Toni E. Mitchell as president of its technology and life sciences business. Mitchell previously served as the regional executive for the companys Pacific Region, where she led enterprise-wide strategies and new business development across The Hanovers core and specialty units. She joined The Hanover in 2010 as regional chief underwriting officer for middle market, helping establish the companys presence across the Pacific Region. Her leadership expanded to include responsibility for the Midwest region. She previously held leadership roles at One Beacon and Atlantic Mutual. MEMIC Promotes Kelley to Director of Business Analysis, Underwriting The MEMIC Group, headquartered in Portland, Maine, promoted Katrice Kelley to director of business analysis, underwriting. Kelley joined MEMIC in 2013 and has held key positions in agency services, underwriting, policy administration, and business analysis. In her new role, she will continue to lead MEMICs underwriting business analysts, support strategic business decisions, and serve on the steering committee for an enterprise-wide initiative shaping the future of MEMICs systems and services. Zelle was sued on Wednesday by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who said the electronic payment platforms 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 Bureaus decision in March to drop a similar case. That agency has ended most enforcement activity following U.S. President Donald Trumps return to the White House. Zelle was launched in 2017, and competes with apps such as PayPals Venmo and Blocks 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 Zelles 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 its secure, the complaint said. In a statement, Zelle said more than 99.95% of transactions on its platform 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 wouldnt 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. James said it wasnt until 2023, after the CFPB and several members of Congress began probes, that Zelle adopted basic safeguards it had proposed four years earlier. While reported fraud losses plummeted, the safeguards were too little too late for consumers who had lost money, and despite those safeguards Zelle still facilitates substantial fraudulent activity, the complaint said. No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam, James said in a statement. The lawsuit seeks to require Zelle to beef up anti-fraud protections, and pay restitution and damages to defrauded New Yorkers. James sued Capital One in May for allegedly cheating savings depositors out of millions of dollars in interest, and in June settled claims against MoneyGram over remittance transfer lapses. The CFPB abandoned similar cases earlier in the year. Topics Lawsuits Profit Loss Claims Fraud New York Moments after an explosion erupted at a U.S. Steel plant outside Pittsburgh, company firefighters, local responders and employees raced in to rescue people from the smoldering wreckage. They were able to free one injured worker who was whisked to a hospital. But one more was still missing, and the area was too unstable to continue working, according to Matthew Brown, chief of Allegheny County Emergency Services. A Pittsburgh-based crew from Pennsylvania Urban Search & Rescue was called in to help, some of whose members were already responding through their affiliations with local fire departments, Brown said. The team stabilized a wall at the plant and used an advanced camera to detect the missing employee. They pulled away the rubble and were able to extract the body of the worker, who died. Mondays explosion, which was powerful enough to shake nearby homes, killed two workers and injured more than 10 others. Five people ranging in age from 27 to 74 remained hospitalized Tuesday including the rescued worker, who was in critical but stable condition, according to the Allegheny County Police Department. Three were at UPMC Mercy, the regions only level-one trauma and burn center. The massive plant along the Monongahela River in Clairton converts coal to coke, a key component in the steelmaking process. The facility is considered the largest coking operation in North America and is one of four major U.S. Steel plants in Pennsylvania. To make coke, coal is baked in special ovens for hours at high temperatures to remove impurities that could otherwise weaken steel. The process creates whats known as coke gas a lethal mix of methane, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. U.S. Steels chief manufacturing officer, Scott Buckiso, said workers were conducting routine operations at the time of the accident. Two loud booms that followed the initial blast were initially thought to be subsequent explosions, but Buckiso said they were from the activation of two relief pressure valves a safety mechanism that operated as expected. The cause of the explosion remained under investigation, and Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro told reporters Tuesday that workers deserve an answer for what happened. We owe them the answers to their questions, and we owe them to never forget the sacrifices that occurred here yesterday, Shapiro said. Before arriving at a news conference, he met with family members of a worker who died. Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato told reporters she had assurances from U.S. Steel that it would continue to cooperate fully with investigators. We all share a common goal. We want to get to the bottom of what happened, and we want to prevent it from happening ever again, Innamorato said. Remembering the Dead Shapiro also used the news conference to pay tribute to the workers who died. The county medical examiners office identified one as Timothy Quinn, 39. and the other was not identified, with his family requesting privacy. Shapiro described Quinn as a devoted father of three known to his friends as TQ. He served as a mentor and leader to other workers and was known for cracking jokes. A second-generation steelworker, he followed in his fathers footsteps and was a mamas boy who, after working long shifts, would take care of his mother and look after his children and his girlfriends two children. His life was cut too short because of what happened here at this plant, Shapiro said. We have a responsibly to remember his legacy, to make sure his memory lives on. We will make sure his children know his dad was a special man, a good man and a man who helped build this community with his hands the way his father did. CEO David Burritt called it an extraordinarily difficult day for a U.S. Steel family that has suffered heartbreaking losses. According to the company, the plant has approximately 1,400 workers. The company, he said, is working closely with local, state and federal authorities. He would not speculate about the cause of the explosion. We will share as much as we can, as soon as we can, and we will take every step necessary to keep our people safe, Burritt said. Deanna Forkey was working behind the counter at the nearby Hometown Burgers & Deli, which her family owns, when she heard the explosion and the restaurant door popped open. When I looked out, all you could see was black smoke, Forkey said. Explosions over there arent really uncommon. We hear them a lot. But that one obviously was much worse. She said many plant workers are regulars at the restaurant. You start to build a little bit of a relationship, Forkey said. So it kind of pulls a little harder at the heartstrings. Plants Past Explosions In September 2009, a maintenance worker was killed in a blast. And in July 2010, another explosion injured 14 employees and six contractors. According to online OSHA records of workplace fatalities, the last death at the plant was in 2014, when a worker was burned and died after falling into a trench. After the 2010 explosion, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined U.S. Steel and a subcontractor $175,000 for safety violations. U.S. Steel appealed its citations and fines, which were later reduced under a settlement agreement. A problem with a battery in February led to a buildup of combustible material that ignited, causing an audible boom, officials said. Two plant workers received first aid but were not seriously injured. Richard Lattanzi, who retired from another nearby U.S. Steel plant and is now mayor of Clairton, recalled that the company once sought to ensure that workers go home the way they came in. Apparently its not happening right now, so weve got to get better, Lattanzi said. We have to rally around this plant right now. Pittsburgh attorney John Gismondi represented the widow of the worker who was killed in the 2009 explosion and three men who were badly burned in the 2010 blast. In a phone interview Tuesday, Gismondi said his immediate thought the previous day was, Oh my God, not again at Clairton. Both lawsuits were settled out of court for significant amounts, he said. Theres a lot of gas on the premises. Thats fine, its part and parcel of what they do, he said. But gas is a dangerous substance, and you need to make sure safety protocols are being followed. Levy reported from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and Casey from Boston. Associated Press writers Holly Ramer in Concord, New Hampshire, Beatrice Dupuy in New York and Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu contributed. Photo: A portion of the Clairton Coke Works, a U.S. Steel plant, is seen Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Clairton, Pa. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Are you a highly motivated self-starter who wants to drive an engineering vehicle for extended periods, conducting dynamic audio and camera data collection for testing and training purposes? This role requires a high level of flexibility, strong attention to detail, excellent driving skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You must have drivers license, of course, and be English-language and tech-savvy. Oh, and you must pass a drug test. If you are interested, you can apply to autonomous vehicle manufacturer Tesla for a job as an Autopilot Vehicle Operator. Teslas job ad seeks people to drive around the Flushing neighborhood in Queens, New York City, in one of its autonomous vehicles collecting data. However, the boilerplate teases that there could be more in store as candidates must have the flexibility of traveling to domestic or international destinations, as necessary. The full-time job pays from $25.25 to $30.60 a hour, depending on the shift. The full-time position comes with quite a package of benefits that includes health, dental, vision, 401(k), health savings account, weight loss and commuter benefits along with family-building benefits such as fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits; back-up childcare and parenting support; and the Tesla Babies merchandise program. Benefits are available on the first day of hire. The job ad is an indication that Tesla may want to deploy its ride-hailing and/or robotaxi services in the Big Apple sometime soon. The company has been given the green light to launch its robotaxi in Texas, after a test drive in Austin. It has been testing its ride-hailing service in San Francisco and announced plans to expand to Arizona. State and local laws typically require firms offering ride-hailing services to become licensed as as transportation network companies (TNC). Tesla is a licensed TNC in Texas. Photo: Tesla Interior NewModelY_91 Photo from Tesla. Topics Tesla Nigeria increased capital requirements for insurance businesses fivefold and gave operators a year to comply or risk losing their licenses. The capital threshold for non-life insurers was raised to 15 billion naira ($9.8 million) from 3 billion naira that of life insurers to 10 billion naira from 2 billion naira and reinsurers to 35 billion naira from 10 billion naira, according to the industry law emailed by the National Insurance Commission, the regulator. An insurer registered before the commencement of the Insurance Industry Reform Act needs to comply with the rules within 12 months, it said. A capitalized insurance sector means insurers can take on bigger risks, give businesses the confidence to expand, and create the stability the economy needs, Ikeoluwa Alabi, an analyst at Afrinvest West Africa, said. Recapitalization, combined with compulsory insurance enforcement, means stronger balance sheets, better claims-paying ability, more trust from the public, she said. Read more: Nigeria Insurance Stocks Gain Most in Almost 20 Years on New Law A gauge for the insurance sector on the Lagos-based Nigerian Exchange closed almost 8% higher, while the broader all-share index declined 0.1%. The legislation, approved by President Bola Tinubu this month, is the latest in a series of reforms by the West African nation to strengthen its financial sector and grow the economy to $1 trillion by 2030 from $243 billion. Others include a 10-fold increase in banks capital requirements, relaxing currency controls, removing costly fuel subsidies and tax reforms. The NIC also set up an 11-member committee to oversee the implementation of the recapitalization to ensure transparency in the sourcing and verification of capital, it said. Photograph: Nnamdi Azikwe Street by Idumota market in Lagos, Nigeria. Photo credit: Adetona Omokanye/Bloomberg Copyright 2025 Bloomberg. Topics Carriers Russian hackers briefly took control of a dam in Norway earlier this year, the head of the Nordic countrys counter-intelligence agency said on Wednesday, the first time Oslo has officially attributed the cyberattack to its neighbor. While in command of the dam in Bremanger, western Norway, on April 7, the hackers opened a flood gate and released 500 liters (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 Norways 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 neighbor 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, Britains 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 Europes 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) Topics Cyber Russia A fire broke out onboard a Maersk container vessel off the coast of Liberia on Wednesday and the crew was still battling to put out the flames a day later, the Danish shipping group said on Thursday. The crew of the Marie Maersk detected smoke coming from containers onboard the vessel en route from Rotterdam, The Netherlands to Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia, Maersk said. The crew was safe while it attempted to keep the situation under control. Two tugboats with firefighting equipment reached the ship late on Wednesday, Maersk said. (Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, writing by Essi Lehto, editing by Terje Solsvik) Earlier this month, Standard & Poors Global Ratings announced another downgrade for State Farm General Insurance Co., lowering the California companys financial strength rating to A- in spite of a show of financial support from its parent. In May, S&P had lowered its financial strength and issuer credit ratings of the California affiliate of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company downward by two notchesto A+ from AA leaving the ratings on CreditWatch with negative implications. On Aug. 4, S&P lowered the ratings two more notchesto A- from A+, this time removing the Credit Watch negative statuseven though casual observers might see 400 million reasons not to take this action. State Farm General Insurance recently received a $400 million investment from its parent in the form of surplus note, S&P reported in an Aug. 4 announcement. In spite of that extra capital, S&P said State Farm Generals significant exposure to natural catastrophe risk will continue to add volatility to both earnings and capital. Leading up to the latest action, S&P had originally put the ratings on CreditWatch Negative in late February, citing weak underwriting performance over the past five years that has eroded the companys capital position and impacted regulatory solvency ratios. While offering a similar assessment of underwriting results in the May downgrade announcement, that move seemed to hinge more squarely on the relationship between the affiliate and the parent. Related: Too Late? S&P Downgrades State Farm General (Updated) The rating action indicates uncertainties related to capital support from the State Farm group, the May announcement said. This, in turn, impacted S&Ps group status assessment, which the rating agency has changed to strategically important from core. Fast forward to August. Some of the uncertainty about parental support seems to have dissipated. We think the [$400 million] capital infusion will help improve SFGIs [State Farm Generals] regulatory solvency ratios and stabilize its capitalization at the 99.5 percent confidence level under our risk-based capital adequacy model, S&P said in the Aug. 4 announcement. S&P said its current assessment also considers recent rate increases and the companys initiatives to reduce exposure in catastrophe-prone areas. In May, on the same day that S&P announced its first two-notch downgrade of the year, State Farm General received approval of emergency interim rate increases, effective June 1, 2025. (The approved increases were 17% for the non-tenant HO-3 line, 15% for renter/condo policies and 38% for rental dwelling policies.) Related: State Farms Emergency Homeowners Rate Hike Gets OK in California; Too Late? S&P Downgrades State Farm General (Updated) Final approval of the full requested rates is still pending, S&P reported. Our base-case scenario assumes that the rate increases are ultimately approved, S&P stated, noting the possibility that the final approved rates actually turn out to be lower. That eventuality that would require the California insurer to return some overcharged premiums to policyholders, with interest, S&P noted, without indicating that this would prompt another rating agency action. Arguing for the emergency rate increases over the course of many months, State Farm General had pointed to its distressed condition and the prospect of a multiple-notch downgrade in order to stress the urgency of the situation. In particular, witnesses testifying for State Farm General and the California Department of Insurance at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge in April said that a downgrade to State Farm Generals S&P financial strength rating to a level below BBB could harm policyholders with mortgages who may require insurance from insurers with stronger ratings. Related: Is State Farm General a Sinking Ship? California Emergency Rate Request Dropped to 17%; Is State Farm General Too Big to Fail? Calif. Rate Hearing Concludes So far, S&P doesnt seem to be contemplating that. The stable outlook reflects our view that SFGIs capital position will remain satisfactory, that its operating performance will improve, and that it will maintain its position as the largest homeowners insurance carrier in California, S&Ps most recent rating announcement says. Commenting on what factors could prompt the rating agency to lower ratings in the next two years, S&P said that could happen if the carriers capital position deteriorates below the satisfactory level and we think it will not be able to improve its financial condition, and if it also looks like State Farm Mutual is going to cut off the lifelines. Restated, in S&Ps language, the second condition is that there is also uncertainty about State Farm Mutuals willingness to provide further capital support, or if we view that SFGIs importance weakens such that we revise our view of its group support. On a positive note, S&P said, We believe that the attributes previously considered in our comparable ratings analysis, including the companys strong brand recognition and leading market share, are adequately reflected in our current view of the carriers business profile and in S&Ps assessment of its significance to the group. Although unlikely in the next two years, an upgrade would depend on a material and sustained improvement in the companys capital position and operating performance and a view that State Farm Generals importance to the groupnow viewed as strategically important rather than corehas materially improved. It was supposed to simplify and speed the process for insurance agents trying to find private coverage for Citizens policyholders, a vital link in depopulating Floridas oversized insurer of last resort. But a year after the $36 million Citizens clearinghouse comparative rating sytem, known as EZLynx, was launched, some agents say theyve grown so frustrated that theyve given up on it, preferring to avoid dealing with Citizens Property Insurance Corp. as much as possible. Ive said it before: Theres nothing easy about EZLynx, said Lee Gorodetsky, an insurance agency owner in Weston, Florida, and member of Citizens Market Accountability Advisory Committee. It makes it very difficult to quote. Why should we bother taking policies from Citizens when we cant write them with someone else? Dozens of Florida agents have formed a Facebook group to share complaints and possible workarounds for the system. Recent comments on the social media page range from error messages that are not addressed by the company, to being unable to bridge to insurers, to too many unnecessary questions asked by the system, to delays and incorrect notices of offers from primary carriers. One said that the system gave a notice of an offer of coverage from a private carrier, but when the carrier was contacted, no offer was available. Sometimes carriers will add in friction to try and not take a piece of business if they don't want it. That's where we run into some issues. We saw that a lot last year in the hard market. Just cut them off and rip that band aide off, then you wont have to worry about it again. Best decision Ive made, one agent commented on Facebook. Theyve spent millions on this system and its a mess, said John Gardner, an agency owner in Fort Myers. A top executive at EZLynx said the company is regularly working on improvements. President Michael Streit told Insurance Journal that roughly 21,000 Florida agents have used the software, and complaints have been relatively few. We do a ton of customer feedback sessions. The feedback were getting is not overwhelmingly negative, Streit said. A customer survey by EZLynx showed that almost 98% of agents quoting Citizens who have questions marked the companys support as awesome, while only 1.4% said it was not good, a company spokeswoman noted. Streit added that Dallas-based EZLynx, part of Applied Systems Inc. since 2021, is one of the largest and fastest-growing insurance management and rate comparison software firms in the country. It has been in business for 22 years, and now has more than 300 member carriers. But the Citizens clearinghouse package is unlike any other. Floridas state-created insurer, still the largest property insurance carrier in the state, is unique in the world: Homeowners can sign with Citizens, with its glidepath-limited rates, but only if other carriers offered premiums are 20% higher for comparable coverage. Unlike most carriers, Citizens stated goal is to get smaller, not grow larger. So, they have to be really precise. Its a hard problem to solve, Streit said. Citizens officials also are aware of the agents concerns but do not believe that EZLynx should be scrapped. We believe the core design of the new clearinghouse platform delivers what we intended to provide agents, which was a smaller initial question set that allows an agent to obtain an initial eligibility decision faster, said Michael Peltier, media relations manager for Citizens. He noted that on about 5% of new business applications, agents have to take additional steps to ensure the applicant meets eligibility criteria, so that a carrier can be compared. Carriers seem to like the system, he noted. We will continue to seek improvements to provide a superior policyholder and agent experience without adding additional complexities to the initial application process, Peltier said. The move toward a new computerized clearinghouse system began a few years ago amid concerns that Citizens clearinghouse was underutilized and the insurer was growing too large, with too much exposure. A report by the Florida Auditor Generals office noted that few carriers were participating in the clearinghouse, and many renewals were not shopped around, slowing the depopulation effort. By then, Citizens in 2022 had already requested proposals from tech companies for a revamped system. Eight vendors provided proposals. The Citizens Board of Governors selected Applied Systems EZLynx, and in late 2023, a contract was signed for $35.7 million over a five-year period. One competing vendor, Bolt Solutions, objected to the bid award, claiming that selection process was arbirtrary and biased. An administrative law judge with the state Division of Administrative Hearings ruled against Bolt. (Bolt was the vendor on a 2014 Citizens clearinghouse system, a $45 million, 10-year contract.) By mid-2024, EZLynx was up and running. When working as intended, the system is a real time-saver, company officials said. Instead of having to input pages of data about a property into the Citizens system, then do it again for private carriers in order to obtain a quote, agents in most cases should be able do everything in one place with EZLynx. The great thing we are able to do here, we put Citizens into the actual rating workflow with all the other carriers, said Ryan Beukema, EZLynxs director of product management. Youre not having to replicate a bunch of stuff. Two sources of the apparent issues, Beukema said, may be questions from carriers and input from agents themselves. In a demonstration of the product this week, Beukema showed how agents are walked through multiple fields that ask for a range of information. If any of the fields are left blank, EZLynx generates an orange triangle error indicator on the field. But that happens early in the process, so that agents cannot submit the property for a quote unless all information is included. Even a missing email address will prevent completion. Insurance companies also may play a role in causing frustration. Carriers can ask questions about the property that may not be strictly necessary, forcing agents to go to the carriers own site, which can require further, extensive data entry, slowing down the process, he said. Sometimes carriers will add in friction to try and not take a piece of business if they dont want it. Thats where we run into some issues, Beukema said. We saw that a lot last year in the hard market. But after the 2023 Florida legislative changes that have stemmed excessive lawsuits and have reduced carriers loss adjustment and litigation costs, the market has softened and the friction has lessened, he explained. Streit noted that EZLynx updates its software quarterly and any snafus will continue to be addressed. Its a complicated but important problem that EZLynx is trying to solve, Streit said. And we knew that. Were not done. Were working on it. Because its complicated, there are going to be issues that no one can solve and annoyances that get created. Despite the reported problems, the Citizens clearinghouse may be effective enough. Citizens has continued to shrink in policy county. As of Aug. 8, the insurer reported 783,344 policies in force. Thats a slight uptick from June but is almost half of the number of policies Citizens held in September of 2023, before legislative reforms had an impact and before several new insurance companies moved into the Florida market. Topics Florida An employer has pleaded guilty to criminal charges after investigation into deadly nitrogen leak held the company responsible. California Ranch Foods, a subsidiary of Golden West Food Group, pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor counts after being criminally charged in connection with the 2020 deaths of two workers fatally exposed to nitrogen gas. A Cal/OSHA investigation shows the victims, Baldemar Gonsales and Maria Osyguss, died after a malfunction in a nitrogen system led to a hazardous gas release on Dec. 1, 2020. Cal/OSHAs investigation reportedly found critical failures in safety procedures and training related to the handling of pressurized gas systems The case followed a criminal referral by Cal/OSHAs Bureau of Investigations. It was prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office. Under the terms of the plea agreement, California Ranch Foods must: Invest $1.6 million in safety improvements at the facility Pay $50,000 to BOI to support enforcement efforts Serve three years of probation Pay a $1 million criminal fine Donate $4 million to local food banks Acknowledge a $35 million civil settlement with the victims families Topics California Commercial Lines Business Insurance A blaze that started in a restaurant kitchen injured three firefighters and scorched century-old buildings in Salt Lake Citys nightlife hub, officials said. Firefighters were dispatched to a cooking fire at the London Belle Supper Club on Monday night and found smoke and flames in the kitchen area, Salt Lake City Fire Chief Karl Lieb said at a news conference. The intense heat created a challenging environment, and because it was unsafe to keep firefighters inside or on the roof, where they normally start their attack, he said they fought the fire with aerial devices. The firefighters did a tremendous job fighting this fire, particularly given the speed at which it spread, the fuel that was available to it and the intensity, Lieb said. One of the injured firefighters had a broken ankle; another was suffering from smoke inhalation, dehydration and nausea; and the third was injured by falling debris and was trapped briefly against a chain link fence, Lieb said. All were doing OK Tuesday morning. There were about 78 firefighters on the scene, he said. Officials estimate about $5 million in losses through the five affected buildings, Lieb said. The investigation of the fire could take weeks. Jason Andersen, the chef de cuisine at Whiskey Street Cocktails & Dining, had just left for the night when his sous-chef called in a panic, saying the block was ablaze and everyone was evacuating. Andersen rushed back. He couldnt get close, but the sous-chef described to him in real time how the fire quickly became an inferno, blasting through windows and shooting smoke and debris into the air. Andersen, who has worked at the bar and restaurant for seven years, stood teary-eyed at a police barricade Tuesday morning as the smell of smoke lingered in the air. All that remained inside his workplace was a pile of charred planks. Now navigating sudden unemployment, Andersen joked with others to cut through the pain: I left my knives in there! Im stressed, but mostly in shock right now, Andersen said. It was like home, a family. We were always there for each other, and now our home has burned to the ground. Mayor Erin Mendenhall described the fire as a tragic loss for the city, calling the establishments that burned iconic businesses in our downtown core that she hopes will return to the block. Los Tapatios, London Belle, White Horse and Whiskey Street are at the heart of what Salt Lake Citys downtown vibe is, Mendenhall said. And I think theres a lot of tears being shared among Salt Lakers that see the devastating damage here. A neighboring restaurant, Eva, reported some smoke and water damage but nothing major. The city will work with the businesses to provide no-interest loans to help cover some of the costs once they get their insurance assessments back, Mendenhall said. The fire destroyed buildings that date back to 1920 and are home to beloved local businesses and gathering places that bring life, culture, and connection to our community, the Downtown Alliance said in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the effects will ripple far beyond the walls of the impacted property. The alliance, which represents 2,500 businesses and building owners, said the affected property owners have said they intend to rebuild. This commitment gives us hope as we look toward restoring the vitality of this block, the alliance said. The alliance thanked first responders who contained the fire, protected nearby buildings and made sure all customers and employees evacuated safely. Before it was reduced to rubble, the block of adjoining bars with full kitchens was a vibrant after-hours hangout in the capital citys small downtown area. Some locals jokingly referred to the strip as Sinners Row, a commentary on the anti-alcohol culture in a state where more than half the population belongs to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, known widely as the Mormon Church. The London Belle Supper Club had leaned into its scandalous history. The bar and restaurants website says it was once the domain of an infamous madam of the early 1900s who orchestrated a city-sanctioned block of prostitution. In modern times, the candlelit cocktail lounge described itself as a seductive sanctuary, where history and hedonism intertwine. A light rail line that runs along the block is open, but the mayor encouraged people to avoid the area unless they need to be there. Brumfield reported from Cockeysville, Maryland. Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Ireland must address infrastructure gaps with great urgency if it is to successfully attract and grow foreign direct investment (FDI) into the country particularly in light of the new tariff regime coming out of the US, the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland has warned. In its pre-budget submission, the Chamber makes a number of recommendations for the Government to focus in order to make the country a more appealing location for investment. Chief executive of the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland Paul Sweetman said with the current challenging environment with tariffs, prompted by US president Donald Trump, competition for investment and talent is continuing to increase. According to the Chamber, 90% of its members surveyed said their corporate headquarters have a positive view of Ireland as an investment location, and 68% said their headquarters already have plans to invest in Ireland over the next five years. It also found that 96% of members said believe the ability to meet climate targets is critical in preserving Irelands competitiveness, while the same number of respondents expressed concern over the impact that reaching full capacity at Irish airports and ports would have for growth and investment. Mr Sweetman warned that infrastructural gaps in key areas including housing, energy and transport are a challenge to Irelands competitiveness. The recently announced revised National Development Plan commits to strong investment across a number areas, but it is vital Ireland addresses infrastructure gaps with great urgency. "This can position the country for continued success in attracting and growing foreign direct investment into the future. On the infrastructure gap, the Chamber said that along with delivering housing, critical transport connectivity projects including MetroLink and Dart+ are also needed along with funding to Uisce Eireann to support long-term development projects. The Chamber survey of members found that 98% indicated the availability of housing is a challenge for their employees. In this area it also called for enhancing the electricity grid capacity while supporting renewable energy growth. In the area of taxation, the Chamber has called for tax credits in the areas of digitalisation and decarbonisation as well as the extension of current income tax exemptions and reducing personal tax burdens on employees to support the attraction and retention of talent. The Chamber also called for policies around attracting and retaining talent which includes advancing measures to address skills gaps and further support apprenticeships, expanding roles eligible for employment permits and providing an annual budget to support innovation. Mr Sweetman said that the budget should focus on economic levels within the Governments control. Our pre-budget submission outlines smart investment and policy decisions that will best prepare Ireland to leverage opportunities in talent attraction, research and development, digital solutions and energy over the years to come, he said. Winning the next wave of FDI is achievable if Ireland builds upon its existing strengths. This, in turn, will support the growth of the 970 US operations in Ireland, directly employing 210,000 people and a further 169,000 people indirectly. Nearly half of boomer business owners plan to exit within five years, yet only 24% have succession plans ready for transfer. Whats happening: Research reveals 48% of Baby Boomer business owners plan to exit within five years, yet only 24% of SMEs have succession plans, creating a massive generational transfer challenge. Why this matters: With 75% of Gen Z considering business ownership and retiring boomers needing exit strategies, this generational shift will reshape Australias SME landscape and determine economic prosperity for millions. Australia is facing an unprecedented business succession challenge as two powerful generational forces collide: retiring Baby Boomers seeking exits and entrepreneurial Gen Z wanting ownership. New research reveals a stark planning gap that threatens to complicate this massive wealth transfer. According to findings from the Bi-Annual Business Monitor, just 24% of small and mid-sized business owners have succession plans in place for their exit. The timing couldnt be more critical. The research shows 48% of Baby Boomer business owners and operators (aged 60-78) plan to exit within the next one to five years, with 87% departing due to retirement. The retirement reality For departing business owners, the financial stakes are substantial. Thirty-four per cent plan to use proceeds from business sales as their retirement nest egg, while 19% intend to pass their businesses to family members. This aligns with broader trends showing that one in four young Aussies now has a small business, driven by cost-of-living pressures and entrepreneurial ambitions. Paul Robson, CEO of research provider, explains the generational implications: This wave of generational succession will create a shift in the way we define SMEs next decade. As Generation Z take the reins of this community, fuelled by rapidly diversifying technology solutions, the way we interact with businesses will be materially different in 10 years time. Previous research found 75% of Gen Z respondents are considering starting businesses. Forty-one per cent find being their own boss appealing, while 37% want to move away from traditional 9-to-5 employment. For 33%, its about developing passions or projects into something bigger. This aligns with Australias broader entrepreneurial trend, where a record 436,000 new business ventures launched in 2024, demonstrating the appetite for business ownership among younger generations. Digital preparation gap The research identifies a critical mismatch between retiring business owners and incoming entrepreneurs. Baby Boomer business owners show the lowest uptake of digitisation within their businesses, with particularly low adoption of cloud-based solutions for inventory management (9%), sales and marketing (12%), and employee management (19%). This digital divide creates challenges for potential buyers, particularly tech-savvy Gen Z entrepreneurs who expect integrated, automated business systems. However, businesses that properly prepare their digital footprint can create smoother transitions when selling. Ensuring your business is future fit will be essential for existing business owners, to maximise business performance and build wealth, Robson notes. Futureproofing comes in many forms, from integrating AI for efficiencies, to digitising more and evaluating product mix. The OiOi story: Success in succession Lisa Bennetts was designing luxury handbags when she gave birth to her daughter Isabella in 1998. Lisa saw a gap in the market for premium nappy bags, and OiOi was born. Five years ago, Isabella joined the company and succession planning became top of mind for Lisa. Together, they shifted the business to an e-commerce-led model, now 70% of their sales, digitally proofing their homegrown business for the next chapter. It was never the plan for me to join my mums business, she started OiOi in 1998 when I was a baby, says Isabella Bennetts-Roberts, Director at OiOi. But after a few years in e-commerce, I saw huge potential in how OiOi could reach a new generation of parents. Since joining, weve shifted to an e-commerce-led model which is now 70% of our sales and the business is thriving. With Mum ready to step back, were exploring succession options that feel sustainable and play to our complementary strengths. For Lisa Bennetts, founder and co-owner of OiOi, the transition has been deeply personal: I started thinking seriously about succession planning around five years ago, not long after Isabella joined the company. She showed a clear interest in the business and had a natural aptitude for it, which made me realise there was a real opportunity to begin passing on knowledge and experience. Isabella grew up with OiOi. From a young age, she travelled with me to trade shows and factories overseas, shaping her understanding and developing a sharp eye for design. She brings a thoughtful, creative, and strategic approach to the brand. It felt like the right time to gradually step back and support her in taking the lead on key decisions. The founder reflects on watching her daughter take control: OiOi is in Isabellas DNA. What gave me the confidence to hand over parts of the business to her was seeing her combine that deep-rooted connection with solid expertise in business and marketing. She brings a youthful, inspirational energy that resonates with a new generation of parents, while respecting the legacy weve built. Watching her take the reins has been one of the proudest moments of my journey. Professional guidance crucial Ainslie van Onselen, Chief Executive Officer of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, emphasises the complexity of succession planning. Life can throw up unexpected challenges. The last thing a business owner needs when planning their succession is pressure to make a rushed decision, van Onselen explains. Succession planning needs careful, gradual consideration, to align personal goals with a transition away from businesses that may have taken decades to build. According to the Australian Taxation Office, succession planning for private groups typically involves preparing for business sales or planning wealth transfers to family members. The ATO recommends establishing succession plans early and reviewing them regularly, particularly when circumstances change. The tax office highlights key documentation requirements for succession transactions, including changes in ownership interests, asset acquisitions and disposals, entity restructures, and valuation requirements for market pricing. Expert analysis of family-owned SMEs shows that succession strategies require careful planning, as family businesses make up around 70% of all Australian enterprises. Van Onselen notes that Chartered Accountants can assist with tax efficiency, staff retention, investment planning, and continuity strategies. There are a lot of options when it comes to succession you may be surprised about insights a Chartered Accountant can provide, to both attract new owners and set yourself up for the future. Bridging generational divide The succession challenge extends beyond individual businesses to economic impact. With SMEs forming the backbone of Australian commerce, successful transitions will determine whether entrepreneurial energy translates into sustained economic growth. Robson sees potential in the generational shift: This next chapter is an exciting opportunity to see our freshest sector entrants gather their stride and lead the charge in Australian innovation. Previous generations can benefit from all the hard work theyve put into their business by setting themselves up for a successful sale. The research suggests that proactive succession planning, combined with digital modernisation, can bridge the gap between retiring business owners and incoming entrepreneurs. Success will depend on whether existing owners recognise the need to prepare their businesses for a generation that expects seamless digital integration and modern operational systems. As Australia navigates this generational transition, the quality of succession planning will determine whether this represents a smooth wealth transfer or a disruptive economic challenge affecting thousands of businesses and their employees. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Here is a selection of people starting new roles with State Street, Three, University of Galway, Cluid, Soarvo and Davy. Ann Fogarty has been appointed as chief operating officer of investment services with State Street, the Boston-based banking group. Working in the US, Irish-born Ann oversees custody and shared services, middle office, investment analytics, fund administration, and global delivery transformation. Anns expanded role builds on her role as executive VP and head of global delivery, and as chair of the State Street Bank international supervisory board. She has been a member of the executive committee for a number of years. Jennifer Zamparelli wears lots of hats. Shes the mother of two children. Shes also a radio presenter, TV host of the Irish winter cultural phenomenon Dancing with the Stars, screenwriter, comedy actor, entrepreneur (she co-owns a luxury hair salon) and now shes back treading the boards again in a musical, The Rocky Horror Show, which is touring Irish theatres this month. The musical has stood the test of time, she says. Its been going since the 1970s. The creator, Richard OBrien, also co-wrote the movie, which originally didnt do so well, but it became a cult phenomenon when it played as a late-night picture show. It garnered this huge following, with people dressing up, attracting people who didnt fit in, misfits who felt part of something. It was ahead of its time. Its basically about sex and liberation, being who you want to be, and gender fluidity. A bunch of aliens come down to Earth and want to have sex with everyone. When I got the offer for it, I turned to my dad and said Do you know what? I might give this one a miss. But then after doing some research myself, and making him watch a documentary about it, were both fully invested in it now. Its an absolute riot. Its a lot of fun. Its still, I would say, ahead of its time, and probably needed more now than ever. Zamparelli plays the narrator, reprising a role performed by the likes of Jack Nicholson, Danny De Vito, and Stephen Fry. Big shoes to fill, she admits. Shes reuniting with Jason Donovan for the production. The pair played a married couple in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert for a Dublin run in 2013. She says he has no airs or graces: I suppose somebody of that stature whos been on the West End and has done every musical under the sun, youd think thered be this persona, but hes not a prima donna. Hes down to earth. Very much a family man. He just loves what he does and hes kind. That really helps when youre jumping in as a newbie to a production thats been running for a long time. For Zamparelli, its another chance to work with a childhood crush, having been a Neighbours TV soap opera superfan in the late 1980s: He might have even been a poster on my wall at one stage. I was running home to watch himself and Charlene get married at half one in the day on BBC. Ill never forget it. The wedding of the century. Its wild he hasnt changed. Hes actually got better looking with age. Rocky Horror Show: Adam Strong as Frank n Furter. Photo: David Freeman Since leaving down her radio mic in 2024, after a decade as a presenter at RTE 2fm, she misses the camaraderie with her colleagues in the studio, the conversations on air fielding offbeat stories from callers from around the country. Now that she has her freedom, she doesnt miss the huge commitment being in the same place, same time, [practically] every single day for 10 years. One thing Zamparelli wont give up any time soon is her role as the longest-serving Dancing with the Stars host, which shes fronted since 2019, originally with Nicky Byrne and lately with Doireann Garrihy. She loves the thrill of live television, even though the most unexpected things can happen: It was [nerve-racking] in the beginning. I suppose as the Sundays go on, it gets easier, but its never a walk in the park because anything can go wrong. Ive been on that stage where the whole system went down, and we had a blackout for seven minutes. But I always think whats the worst that can happen?. At this stage, Ive been through a lot of shows, but as soon as you get up to the top of those stairs, and youre looking down, and theres a live studio audience, the fear is there. It never, ever goes. I remember falling over a prop. Im flashing my arse to the nation, but luckily, the camera had come away from me, so it was just the studio audience that got to see that sight. And I had to get through the rest of the show. Covid was wild as well because we didnt know what was happening. We didnt know if we could let them dance together, and that was quite a scary time as well. And sure, look, Ive been through a load of presenters as well weve had Nicky, weve had Doireann. Its all been great. Its an infectious, joyous show to be part of. Its a bit of brightness in the darkness of winter. I start it in the depths of winter. Im driving in, its misery and rain. As soon as its over, were into spring and its brighter. It gets me through those dark months. Zamparelli says she has great regard for the celebrities who take on the challenge, who include the comedian Bernard OShea, her old sidekick on breakfast radio and the sitcom they co-wrote and starred in, Bridget & Eamon: Theyre put through their paces. They really work hard. I think anybody who gets through, even week-one, has a lot to be said for them because theyve never done that before. Its live, in front of an audience. Theres voting, a lot of pressure. I dont know how they do it. And I dont know how weve any more celebrities left in the country, but apparently, we do. So, were gonna keep doing it until weve got through all of them. Jennifer Zamparelli is touring The Rocky Horror Show, including Cork Opera House (Tuesday, August 26 Saturday, August 30). See: rockyhorror.co.uk A Question of Taste Best recent book youve read: Ive just finished the whole Elements series Water, Earth, Fire, Air by John Boyne, which is a bit dark, but I do like a bit of darkness when I'm reading. They're all intertwined. I'm not a fast reader, so theyre the perfect read for me. I really enjoyed those books. Best recent TV viewing: I tend not to watch much TV until the wintertime, but I did watch the latest White Lotus series. It was really good, but not as good as earlier ones. Best recent film: I wouldn't be a massive Marvel or superhero fan, but I got to go to a screening of The Fantastic Four when I was covering recently for Dave Moore on Today FM. As superhero movie movies go it's up there. It's very good. Best recent play: I went to see Tommy Tiernan in the Abbey Theatre acting in Kevin Barrys The Cave with my mom. She wasn't keen on the first half, but after they did the eulogies, it flew along. I loved it from start to finish. The whole cast was phenomenal. I really enjoyed that. Piece of music youve been listening to lately: My daughter watched Mamma Mia! and the sequel so were on an Abba absolute freight train, which is going nowhere. We're in the car, and all she wants to do is listen to Abba on a loop. Were demented with Abba at the moment! Taylor Swift has revealed her upcoming album, The Life of a Showgirl, will be released on October 3. Announcing the news on boyfriend Travis Kelce's New Heights podcast, she also revealed the album will feature a collaboration with pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter. The singer's twelfth album sees her step away from longtime collaborator Jack Antonoff and lists Max Martin and Shellback as producers. Martin and Shellback previously worked on her albums Red, 1989 and Reputation. The podcast episode, which saw over 1.3m viewers tune in live around the world, also saw her emotionally speak about reclaiming her master recordings for the first time. "[It] changed my life," she said. "I can't believe it still, every time I think about it." The star also talked about her "favourite parts" of the Era's tour. "It was the bonding between generations," she said. "I've never played for crowds that were so committed," she added. The official tracklist for the star's forthcoming record is: The Fate of Ophelia Elizabeth Taylor Opalite Father Figure Eldest Daughter Ruin the Friendship Actually Romantic Wi$h List Wood CANCELLED! Honey The Life of a Showgirl (ft. Sabrina Carpenter) Asked why she decided to announce the news on the podcast, the 14-time Grammy Award-winning singer, quipped: This podcast got me a boyfriend." Tivoli, Dublin, September 3, 1994 A week after the release of their debut, Definitely Maybe, the Gallaghers arrived in their spiritual homeland for their first ever Irish show, at the 700 capacity Tivoli Theatre in the Liberties in Dublin. Speaking to reporters Noel Gallagher joked they were here for the Tayto before he and the band negotiated nine of Definitely Maybes 11 tracks. The performance was significant for marking the first time Noel played an acoustic segment on his own a staple of later Oasis gigs. He strummed his way through DYer Wanna Be A Spaceman a heartfelt ballad from the perspective of a young boy dreaming of growing up and taking on the world. Reports from the time suggest the crowd was on the rowdier side: one review starts with the journalist revealing they had been threatened with a broken nose after pushing their way to the front. Oasis finished with a cover of The Beatles I Am The Walrus while Evan Dando of the Lemonheads watched the madness from the side of the stage. Tickets cost 6.50 the equivalent of 15 today, and a far cry from the eye-watering prices for Oasis Croke Park shows. Slane Castle, July 22, 1995 It would be an overstatement to say Oasis blew headliners REM off stage at Slane 95 but they were far more comfortable playing to a huge audience than the American band, who had emerged from an indie scene wary of commercial success and seemed to have their guards up throughout (it was the first date since drummer Mike Mills underwent an emergency appendectomy). Oasis, by contrast, knew they were born for this and blitzed through a set that was both a victory lap for Definitely Maybe and a foreshadowing of the acclaim to come with (Whats the Story) Morning Glory?, released three months later. None of this came as a surprise. The walk up to Slane Castle confirmed the day would belong to Oasis as much as to REM, with t-shirt sellers enthusiastically hawking stick-on Gallagher eyebrows. The tone went from hairy to lairy as Oasis emerged from the wings, with troublesome punters up front chucking missiles at Liam. Subsequent reports claimed they were throwing stones, though some who were there remember it as coins. Either way, Liam wasnt having it, saying: If you dont like it, go f***ing hang yourself. The concert is notable for featuring an early performance by Noel of Dont Look Back In Anger which, despite its unfamiliarity, reduced much of the vast audience to silence. It was a hint of what was coming popular though they were, Oasis were about to be a lot bigger. Pairc Ui Chaoimh, August 14 and 15, 1996 Oasis had just written themselves into British rock folklore with two concerts before a combined audience of 250,000 at Knebworth in Hertfordshire. Now they were doing likewise in Ireland with a double-helping of dates at Corks largest outdoor venue, which had previously hosted artists such as Prince and Michael Jackson. Oasis were fighting fit, and a blistering turn by support act the Prodigy laid down the gauntlet and pumped them up further. Mindful of the setting, Noel honoured local hero and namesake Rory Gallagher, who had died the previous year, by playing Cast No Shadow on an acoustic guitar belonging to the Corkman. It was a fine double bill for a ticket price of 22.50. Many of the bands extended Irish family were present and created a celebratory atmosphere, wrote rock photographer Jill Furmanovsky, who photographed Oasis throughout that year and has collected many of the images for her new book Oasis: Knebworth. Those were marvellous shows. The Point, Dublin, December 3-5, 1997 The Gallaghers on stage at the Point in 1997. Pic: Collins Oasiss reputation for unpredictability preceded them by the time they returned to Ireland with their bloated, cocaine-fuelled third album, Be Here Now. There had been multiple bust-ups between Noel and Liam while touring the United States, and Liam had cried off an MTV Unplugged session in August 1996, claiming he had a sore throat (he still made it to the recording, heckling Noel from the balcony). His throat was bothering him again in December 1997, and he left Noel to front the band for the second and third of their three nights in Dublin. It was a reminder of how chaotic Oasis could be even at the height of their success and hinted at the tension between the siblings that would eventually threaten the groups future. Still, for those who were there, the gigs carried the novelty of Noel singing an entire set (Oasis completists highly rate the live bootleg). Moreover, things would get worse at a show in Glasgow two days later, they would leave the stage early under a hail of bottles. Was this the beginning of the end? Im bored with Oasis, and I cant wait till this tour is over so I can take a long break, a disillusioned Noel had told an Irish newspaper backstage before the first Dublin performance. If someone told me that tonight was the last date and we wouldnt play again for another five months, I wouldnt give a f***....I know theyre getting bored with me and Liam, and the Beatles influences, and the drug stuff, and all that other bollocks about us. I think its time to give it a rest, give the fans some time off from us. Marlay Park, Dublin, July 16, 2005 Liam and Noel Gallagher of Oasis performing at Dublin's Marlay Park in 2005. Pic: Paddy Cummins Oasis were adrift and lacking a purpose as they rolled into the joyless south Dublin venue a purgatorial patch that sucks all the fun out of concert-going because its such a pain to get to and from. The Gallaghers werent feeling it, though, to be fair, they were touring the listless Dont Believe The Truth album. Liam sipped mineral water rather than lager, and Noel bored everyone senseless with indulgent new songs such as The Importance of Being Idle, a tune about lazing the day away that lives up to its name with its plodding tempo. More than 10 years on from their incendiary debut, Oasis were the elder statesmen now at a time when rock music was making a roaring comeback with younger, edgier bands such as The Libertines. It would be an exaggeration to say that the writing was already on the wall: there were no reasons to expect that Oasis would implode within five years. But the excitement had gone for them and their audience. Slane Castle, June 20, 2009 Fans cheering on Oasis while they were on stage at Slane Castle, 2009. Pic: Collins Photos There was a sense of things turning full circle, as just as in Cork in 1996, Oasis were supported by Prodigy, who once again threatened to blow the headliners off stage. Backstage, Noel and Liam werent talking each had their own caravan, separate from the rest of the band (and each other). The concert was fine the gig was largely noteworthy for the massive logjams on the way back to Dublin, which meant many didnt get home until early the next morning. It was only in hindsight that Slane 2009 would become a significant moment for Irish Oasis fans, with the band going through a nasty breakup in Paris two months later. As Liam would tell the ExaminerNoel was acting like a dick, I was acting like a dick, he says. Two dicks in a room fucking hell. Band over. Croke Park, Dublin, August 16 and 17, 2025 Oasis perform on stage during the opening night of their Live 25' Tour at Principality Stadium on July 04, 2025 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images) After years of speculation, months of anticipation and weeks of hype, Oasis are finally making their way to Dublin for their first Irish shows in 16 years. Theyve been in blistering form since kicking off their comeback in Cardiff, to the point where people have almost forgotten the absurd ticket prices the band have been cheekily charging. Giving the audience precisely what they want, the set has leaned on their iconic first two albums, with just a smattering of later work ( The Importance Of Being Idle has yet to make an appearance). Can any performance possibly live up to the expectations that have been built around these shows? Come August 16, all will be revealed. Presidential election hopeful Gareth Sheridan has defended his mother's opposition to a housing project in which she cited concerns it would become social housing. Mr Sheridan said his mother, Ann Sheridan, lodged concerns about the Dublin development "at the behest of her employer", who was the developer behind the housing project. Ann Sheridan, a director of her son's company, Nutriband, when it was established in 2012, is listed as a director of several companies involved in property development. Mr Sheridan, the multi-millionaire businessman who has signalled his intention to enter the presidential race, said his mother works in accounts and administration for a property developer and is not a developer herself. In May 2021, Number Four Red Ltd applied for planning permission to construct a three-to-four-storey development in Walkinstown, Dublin. On June 25, 2021, Ann Sheridan submitted an observation to the development, noting it was supported by FOLD housing association. Ultimately, this development will become social housing, she said. The Walkinstown and surrounding areas have a high density of social housing already... this development will only add to that high number. In principle, I have no objection to social housing, but this needs to be evenly distributed around the city. The observation was rejected, and permission was granted in September 2021. In October 2021, Ms Sheridan appealed the planning permission, citing the same reason. Permission was ultimately granted for the development to allow Number Four Red Ltd, now known as Verdigris Construction Ltd, to proceed. The company has two directors, including Timothy Gunning. Ms Sheridan and Mr Gunning are listed as company directors for several companies. Gareth Sheridan said his mother signed the objections following instructions from Mr Gunning. It is true that she signed the planning observation as you have indicated and that she is listed as one of the Directors of Number Four Red Ltd," he said. She fully accepts that she signed this observation but did so in good faith and at the behest of her employer, Tim Gunning. Mr Gunning is a property developer. My mother is not. She has worked for Mr Gunnings companies for over 20 years in the capacity of accounts manager and admin. My mother is now distressed and distraught when I told her of the implications being drawn from the submissions she signed at the direction of her employer. There are no conflicts of interest arising here on the part of myself, my mother, or my family relating to the property sector or property development." Mr Gunning told the Irish Examiner he had no comment to make when contacted to check if the claims were an accurate representation of his position. A doubling of agency staff use for older peoples services by the HSE is a healthcare risk and the "canary in the coalmine", warning of serious problems, Age Action has warned. It follows a report in the Irish Examiner showing money paid to agencies in this sector almost doubled from 64.5m to 118.9m last year. Despite pledges to rein this in, it reached 52.1m spent already by May. Camille Loftus, head of advocacy and public affairs with Age Action, said she was disturbed but not surprised by the findings. A reliance on agency staff in healthcare services is a healthcare risk, she said. If you look at instances where there have been errors, failure in care, medical misadventure, you will find very frequently that the use of agency staff was a factor. She stressed this was not because temporary workers might not be qualified, but it does mean they are not familiar with the healthcare setting in which theyre working. She suggested if a nursing home or homecare service was short-staffed enough to need agency help, they were unlikely to have time to offer thorough training on the day. If you can see a pattern where a sector in the health service is heavily staffed by people who are not full-time employed, that is an indication of a problem and it is absolutely a risk, she said. Low salaries are common in social care for older people, especially in nursing homes, she added. We saw the kind of failures that can occur when a provider is consistently understaffed in that RTE Investigates programme on nursing homes, she said. At least part of that problem was persistent understaffing. You will remember that horrific scene of that woman standing there with a man desperate to use the bathroom, and she knowing she couldnt leave over 20 people unattended thats an understaffing problem. Undercover footage shot at two homes run by Emeis Ireland was shared by RTE in June to widespread outrage. In general, Ms Loftus said: When you're dealing with residents where dementia might be an issue, a constant turnover of staff where people dont know residents preferences is worrying. Its risky, it makes it more likely something will go wrong for the patient. The pressures are only likely to continue, with the projected rise in people living longer. She raised concerns about how this is being managed by the HSE and Government. The agency staffing numbers are like a canary in the coalmine, its a warning to us that in this system which we all think is creaking at the seams that those fissures are becoming critical now, she said. The HSE said agency staff were used to cover holidays, sick leave or maternity leave, as well as when short-staffed. It acknowledged recruitment as a challenge, saying this was the case for health services worldwide now. The data was released by the HSE to Sinn Fein health spokesman David Cullinane. He criticised the HSEs staff policy pay and numbers strategy as ineffective, calling for an ambitious and realistic workforce plan. A Kerry farmer, who succeeded in blocking a bank from selling his lands at public auction, has won a fortnights grace in preparing a new legal bid to save his property at Knockardtry, Castleisland. Tom Curtin and his wife, Theresa, with no legal representation, tearfully hugged each other in the High Court as they addressed Ms Justice Denise Brett fighting for an injunction restraining Everyday Finance Limited, practising as BCM Global, and agent/receiver Luke Charlton from selling the land. Everyday, which had obtained a possession order for Mr Curtins small farm on foot of a 20-year-old AIB loan that had eventually been bought by the bank, had advertised it in three lots to be sold online at 2pm on Wednesday by Wilsons Auctioneers. Mr Curtin had approached the court accompanied by barrister Edmund Shanahan who, on the basis he was not instructed by a solicitor, was not allowed by Judge Brett to address her. Mr Curtin had been told by Judge Brett she could not go behind the possession order already granted to Everyday by one of her colleagues and would not be interfering with such order as had never been appealed by Mr Curtin. Michael Connolly, counsel for the bank, just before a midday break, told Judge Brett the 2pm auction had been put back to 3.30pm to allow the hearing to proceed post-lunch, but when proceedings resumed, Mr Curtin immediately held up his phone to show the online auction had already started despite Mr Connollys earlier reported postponement. After Judge Brett told the banks legal team to check out the matter, Mr Connolly returned to report while the auction had started, no bids had been or would be taken. Mr Connolly then reported to the judge that, while the High Court proceedings had been going on pre-lunch, an online application seeking a protective certificate under the personal insolvency legislation had been made on behalf of Mr Curtin by Mr Shanahan to a judge at Ennis Circuit Court. Judge Brett asked Mr Shanahan if this was true and he said he had appeared in that case while sitting on a bench in the corridor outside the courtroom, but had been attended and instructed online by a solicitor, Melanie McNally, who had accepted to go on record in the online circuit court application for Mr Curtin. Mr Shanahan then told the court: I was asked at great speed under enormous pressure... but was stopped mid-sentence by Judge Brett who told him: It is a matter for you to ensure that you are in appropriate standing before you can appear as counsel in any court. Stating she was surprised, to put it mildly at the new development, Judge Brett said she may be required to take matters further or consider further options. Mr Shanahan said he had acted in good faith for the Curtins, for whom the solicitor Melanie McNally had come on record. Judge Brett said: You understand exactly what I am asking you. You understand what is your obligations as counsel and the circumstances whereby you can act as counsel. Mr Shanahan replied: I dont want to mislead the court in any way. We did have a solicitor on record. This particular matter arose for me in terms of assisting the Curtins. Judge Brett told Mr Shanahan it was a matter that needs very very careful thought. Before adjourning the proceedings to allow both Mr Curtin and the bank to put in further written evidence to assist the court, Judge Brett expressed concern that earlier Mr Curtin had told her the lands in question had always been in the possession of the receiver, while now admitting he had continued to farm the lands. Mr Curtin said he had cattle on the land and had no option but to continue to farm it in order to feed them. Judge Brett made an interim order prohibiting the sale by auction or any other means of the relevant lands until Friday August 29 or such sooner order of the court, and directed the matter come back before her on August 27. Councillors in Killarney have voted by a narrow majority to create a 139-space car park in a green area in the oldest part of the town. The controversial proposal for the Green Lawn had attracted 45 submissions from the public, with the majority, 38, opposed to the plan. The site, which is privately owned and zoned opportunity /residential, is to be leased for 15 years. It is near schools, St Marys Cathedral, the Killarney National Park, as well as businesses on Lower New Street. The vote had been adjourned and the councillors at the adjourned meeting rescinded their earlier decision to remove an exit-entrance onto the N71 Mission Road. Mission Road, which runs between Muckross and the Ring of Kerry, is arguably the busiest tourist route in Kerry, and long delays are a daily experience heading west to the Fossa/Killorglin side of the ring. Gardai had expressed grave reservations about the exit, saying Mission Road was already clogged with traffic. They welcomed the provision of a car park but said: Mission Road already experiences high volumes of traffic and traffic congestion is a daily occurrence. Residents said the car park would seriously and adversely affect this unique residential enclave of old Killarney. Among the handful in favour were leading local businesses, including hoteliers, who said the town needed additional parking and current lack of parking was hampering locals and visitors. The special meeting to vote on the Part 8 planning process drew heated exchanges between some members. At the end, four councilors voted for and three voted against the plans. Mayor of Killarney Martin Grady voted against the development car park, which he said would undermine longer term plans for a multi-storey. The Green Lawn will soon become Black Lawn, he said of the plans. Mr Grady said the majority of the 38 objections were from residents living within close proximity of the car park. Their views must be taken into consideration, he said. This article was funded by the Local Democracy Scheme A cease and desist agreement between presidential hopeful Gareth Sheridans Nutriband company and the US government in 2018 included a $25,000 fine for the businessman. According to the 2018 document, Nutriband never obtained authorisation from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before marketing its products transdermal patches for the delivery of vitamins and drugs in the US. Mr Sheridan told Hot Press in an interview last week that the company had received advice that the products would be treated as medical supplements rather than devices and that this had led the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to investigate Nutriband. In late 2018, a cease and desist order was agreed between the two sides, which Mr Sheridan called a wake-up call. The terms of the agreement saw a $25,000 fine each levied against both Mr Sheridan, then the company's CEO, and his business partner Serguei Melnik. The SEC investigation said that according to the companys annual reports for the fiscal years ending 2017 and 2018, Nutriband had no revenue and had incurred a net loss of approximately $2.7m as it developed. In that time, Mr Sheridan and Mr Melnik were its two employees. The SEC's investigation found that Nutribands transdermal patches consist of a drug and a delivery device, and such drug-device combination products would require FDA approval. It said that six Nutriband public filings with the SEC "contained misleading statements about the FDAs jurisdiction over its products or failed to state that the companys products could not be marketed in the US without FDA approval" and that various filings had "mischaracterised the companys products as 'dietary supplements' not subject to FDA regulation and approval". In July 2018, the company retained an FDA-specific lawyer who "provided an opinion stating that Nutribands products are regulated as drugs by the FDA" and must receive market approval before being sold in the US, which may significantly limit Nutribands projected sales targets". The document said that both men must cease their previous descriptions of the products and each pay $25,000 to the US government. Former presidential candidate Sean Gallagher is a former chairman of the company, but resigned in January 2022, with his resignation letter citing in part a 154,000 spend on a corporate box for Orlando Magic basketball games. Housing developments Mr Sheridan has also said today that his mother opposed a housing development over concerns it would become social housing at the behest of her employer. This is despite the fact that the project in question was being developed by her employer. Ann Sheridan, who was a director of Mr Sheridans company Nutriband when it was established in 2012, is listed as a director of several companies involved in property development. However, Mr Sheridan has told the Irish Examiner that this mother works in accounts and administration for a property developer and is not a developer herself. Mr Sheridan has said that his platform for the presidency will partly be based on housing. He said that the questions raised by the Irish Examiner would spur that desire. "Rather than deter me from making housing one of the key elements of my campaign, this merely underscores the dire need to address this kind of practice and conduct within the areas of planning and property development, which serves to slow down the provision of housing and escalate costs." Presidential election hopeful Gareth Sheridan has accused people in former business associate Sean Gallagher's "circle" of leaking negative stories to the press. In an extraordinary intervention, Mr Sheridan stated that there had been a "coordinated attack" on him. Mr Gallagher previously served as chairman of Mr Sheridan's pharmaceutical company, Nutriband, from 2017 to 2021. Mr Gallagher also previously contested the presidential election in 2011 and 2018. Before starting his campaign launch at a press conference in the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin, Mr Sheridan said he wanted to bring to reporters' attention the journalism and coverage of our announcement and our campaign. There seems to be somewhat of a coordinated attack taking place on my character by people associated and in Sean Gallagher's circle, he said. I'm not saying for a moment that Sean is behind this or involved in any way. At MacGill [Summer School] a couple of weeks ago, he actually encouraged participation, asked the media to be nice to candidates that were brave, to come forward and encourage candidates to put their name in the ring. Hopefully, that's still the case. But some of you in the room know what I'm talking about. That's all I'll say on that. For a couple of days now, we've been receiving essentially copy-and-paste question lists with minimal time to respond from various different outlets with the exact same questions. Something just seems a little off. Mr Sheridan said Mr Gallagher was chairman of Nutriband for a number of years. The company received Nasdaq listing in 2021. He said that leading up to this, it was advised that the chairman of the company should have capital markets experience. This was put to Mr Gallagher, and he was asked to "voluntarily step aside" but stay on as a director, and Sergey Melnik was appointed. Mr Sheridan stated that communication broke down at this point. I wish Sean nothing but the best [in] whatever he's working on now, he said. I'd just like to be very upfront and make sure that you're aware of the situation that we're facing. Perhaps somebody is taking our breakup a little bit worse than me. Mr Sheridan denied that this was an attack on Mr Gallagher and added that he has no way of saying Sean is involved. He then spoke about hysterical headlines in the newspapers. When asked what hysterical headlines he was talking about, Mr Sheridan referenced coverage that referred to him as a multimillionaire tycoon, arguing that he had never used the word tycoon in a sentence. This is despite Mr Sheridan referring to himself as a multi-millionaire pharma tycoon in his own opening remarks, as well as later in the press conference. Elsewhere at the press conference, Mr Sheridan confirmed he has a net worth of $16.5m. This includes $16m in Nutriband shares and 500,000 in the bank. The 35-year-old has said he is confident of having a proposer and seconder at least four county councils. He is seeking to run as an independent candidate. Australias small business backbone drives 32% of GDP. Yet many are flying blind online, struggling to keep up with tech-savvy corporate giants. Whats happening: Small and medium enterprises representing 97% of Australian businesses are falling behind in digital transformation, with only 28% using AI compared to 90% of large businesses, creating a widening productivity gap. Why this matters: SMEs contribute 32% of Australias GDP and employ 5 million people, but systemic barriers around cost, complexity, and knowledge are limiting their growth potential and the nations economic productivity. Australias digital economy is charging ahead, but theres a problem: the businesses that form the backbone of our economy are being left behind. According to Simeon Duncan, Senior Manager of Corporate Affairs & Public Policy at Intuit APAC, small and medium businesses face an urgent productivity challenge. While large enterprises race ahead with artificial intelligence, automation, and cloud tools, many smaller businesses remain stuck with outdated systems and manual processes. The numbers reveal a stark divide. Research shows that as of April 2025, only 28% of small businesses were using AI a 13% increase since July 2024. Meanwhile, the NSW Government estimates nearly 90% of large businesses are already leveraging the technology. The backbone businesses getting squeezed Small and medium businesses represent more than 97% of all Australian businesses, according to the National Small Business Strategy. They contribute over 32% of GDP and employ close to 5 million people, making them essential to the economy. Yet without dedicated IT teams or technology investment budgets, SMBs face significant digital disadvantages. Software licences, integration costs, and subscriptions often seem prohibitively expensive, especially when returns arent immediately clear. Business owners are time poor, and the idea of exploring new tools often falls to the bottom of the list, Duncan explains. Many do not know where to begin or who to trust for advice. Recent trends show that while experts predict significant shifts for small businesses in 2025, many are still grappling with fundamental digital transformation challenges. The 12-hour productivity breakthrough The benefits of embracing digital tools are substantial. Recent research shows that automated workflows and AI-powered agents have dramatically increased productivity for small and mid-size enterprises. These AI systems handle invoicing, payments, reconciliation, and customer relationship management, saving business owners up to 12 hours every month a benefit reported by 45% of users. Over three-quarters (78%) of users say these AI solutions make running their business easier, while 68% report that automation allows them to spend more time on growth initiatives. AI-powered tools help predict late payments, automate invoice reminders, and generate real-time cash flow insights, enabling businesses to optimise working capital and avoid financial surprises. Policy reform as the solution Duncan argues that government support can change this trajectory through inclusive digital policy reform that levels the playing field. This includes providing training tailored specifically to small business operators and their teams, delivered through partnerships with industry associations. Sessions could focus on practical skills like using AI to forecast cash flow or automating invoicing and payroll. The reform agenda also encompasses expanding grants, tax credits, or subsidies for investments in digital tools and cybersecurity. Small businesses need real financial support to overcome upfront costs and make confident investments, Duncan notes. Additional priorities include expanding the Consumer Data Right to cover more datasets relevant to SMBs, enabling smarter financial tools and better business insights. Embedding digital readiness into government procurement would incentivise small businesses to modernise while creating more contract opportunities. The challenge isnt reluctance or lack of desire to engage with emerging technologies. Instead, SMBs face systemic barriers including cost constraints, technological complexity, and uncertainty about where to start. Small business sales growth has hit a four-year low, yet four in five businesses surveyed remain positive about the future despite current headwinds and challenging conditions. The fragmented nature of tax and compliance systems hits small businesses hardest, draining time and mental resources that could be invested in innovation. These businesses need practical support to navigate the digital transformation landscape effectively. The 2030 vision Australia has a unique opportunity to reboot how it supports SMBs through digital transformation. By 2030, Duncan envisions every small business equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support to thrive in the digital economy. When small businesses succeed, Australia succeeds, he emphasises. Now is the time to invest in inclusive policies that close the divide and unlock the full productivity potential of our economy. Achieving this goal requires coordinated efforts between industry and government, focusing on practical solutions that address the real barriers facing Australias small business community. The stakes are high: without intervention, the digital divide risks leaving millions of workers and thousands of businesses behind in an increasingly automated economy. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Presidential election hopeful Gareth Sheridan was forced to defend a $25,000 fine, ties to senator Sharon Keogan, and links to an Israeli hospital in a bruising first press conference since announcing his bid. The 35-year-old founder of pharma company Nutriband, who has a net worth of over 13m, argued his success should not be used against him in the presidential race. Mr Sheridan said he was confident that we have a path to a nomination with proposers and seconders and at least six councils, including Tipperary and Laois. To get on the ballot paper for the presidential election, a candidate must have the backing of 20 Oireachtas members, or four local authorities. Independent Sharon Keogan, who has been criticised for comments on immigration, LGBT+ issues, and surrogacy, has helped Mr Sheridan meet councillors. In a Virgin Media interview, he distanced himself from some of her comments. At his press conference, he said Ms Keogan had a very strong influence among independent councillors in the country, and saying they were actually introduced by an independent councillor. Mr Sheridan also addressed a report in the Irish Examiner that his mother had objected to a housing development, citing concerns about social housing, at the behest of her employer, who was behind the project. He denied this undermined his message on the housing crisis, adding his mother grew up in social housing. The Nutriband journey [] was by no means a fairytale journey, he said. I've made the phone calls home asking for help with rent. I understand the value of a euro. I'll never take that for granted because I didn't have it at one point. I think we have to be careful that we don't get into a position that if an entrepreneur who's aspiring in this country makes a success out of an idea that they have, that all of a sudden, it's a negative. He further confirmed he was worth $15.5m (13.3m). This includes $15m in Nutriband shares and $500,000 in cash. He said he would use his savings to fund his campaign. In relation to the ,000 fine levied at him by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), he argued it followed an honest mistake and he and the company paid our dues and moved on. The company had said a product did not need approval from the FDA in filings to the SEC. He added Nutriband had relied on people who did know the rules and regulations but had turned out to be wrong. Mr Sheridan also addressed reports his company had given $50,000 to an Israeli hospital training Israeli Defence Force soldiers. The company worked with two doctors who developed a device that liquefied tablets for people who couldn't swallow. He said the project was shelved. He said he would have no issue whatsoever about the prospect of signing the Occupied Territories Bill into law if he was president, adding what was happening in Palestine the utmost banality of evil. Mr Sheridan described immigration as a tricky subject, but said Ireland did not have an immigration problem, and there was a problem with the system. He also confirmed he was against Government proposals to amend the Triple Lock. As the presidents of the United States and Russia prepare to meet in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, much commentary has centred on maps and front lines. Security guarantees and territorial questions matter. But any agreement not anchored in human rights will be fragile from the outset and will not deliver a durable peace. Human rights are the only universally agreed roadmap for honouring human dignity. They provide a reliable framework for resolving disputes and a foundation for just, sustainable peacemaking. Standing by these principles is, in the long run, the best defence against any aggression. Russias illegal war of aggression has caused immense suffering, death and destruction. It has resulted in widespread human rights violations and international crimes, including unlawful killings, the systematic torture of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians, the illegal detention of thousands of civilians, and the unlawful forcible transfer of Ukrainian children. Ukraine, as the sovereign state that is the target of Russias illegal aggression, must always be present at the negotiating table, at every stage. The Council of Europe is rightly calling for that. This is not only a question of legitimacy. It is a practical necessity for implementing any agreement on the ground. Trump will meet Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson on Friday. Graphic: Graphic News. More is needed. My recent memorandum on human rights elements for peace in Ukraine offers insights into how to address human rights issues for peace in Ukraine. In particular, these five urgent elements should guide the Alaska talks. First, accountability must be non-negotiable. Those responsible for gross violations of international human rights law and international crimes must be brought to justice. Significant steps have already been taken, including the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine, the creation of a Register of Damage and progress toward a claims commission. These initiatives should be backed with sustained support for investigations and prosecutions so that impunity does not become the price of peace. Second, victims must be at the centre. Reparations are essential to justice. All victims of Russias aggression since 2014 should receive redress. Ukraines own efforts to compensate victims already now deserve robust international backing. Third, peace negotiations must provide for the immediate release of all prisoners of war and all civilian detainees, account for the missing, and ensure the unconditional return of unlawfully transferred Ukrainian children. Fourth, the rights of people in temporarily occupied territories must be protected. Russia continues to torture and illegally detain civilians living there, while also imposing its laws and pressuring residents to acquire Russian citizenship. This should stop. Safe and unfettered access for independent human rights monitors is essential. Fifth, inclusivity makes peace more durable. Womens meaningful participation at every stage of talks consistently increases the likelihood and longevity of peace agreements. A gender perspective should be integrated across agendas, from security arrangements to reconstruction. Victims of human rights violations, Ukraines civil society and relevant multilateral organisations must be fully involved. They should not only be consulted but embedded in design, monitoring and implementation to ensure outcomes that are inclusive, sustainable and firmly grounded in human rights. The Alaska talks will be judged less by the guns they silence than by the protections they set in motion. Arrangements balanced on power alone will fail at the first shock. A settlement anchored in human rights offers something else: a peace that is just, and therefore built to endure. Michael O'Flaherty is Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights A Rhode Island man accused of faking his death and fleeing the United States to evade rape charges was found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend in his first of two Utah trials. A jury in Salt Lake County found Nicholas Rossi guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial in which his accuser and her parents took the stand. Nicholas Rossi was accused of faking his death and fleeing to Europe to avoid rape charges (Firecrest Films/AP) The verdict came hours after Rossi, 38, declined to testify on his own behalf. He will be sentenced in the case on October 20 and is set to stand trial in September for another rape charge in Utah County. First-degree felony rape carries a punishment in Utah of five years to life in prison, said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. Mr Gill said: We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable. Utah authorities began searching for Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, when he was identified through a decade-old DNA rape kit in 2018. Nicholas Rossi was arrested in Scotland, but claimed he was the victim of mistaken identity. He was extradited to the US in January 2024 (Andrew Milligan/PA) He was among thousands of rape suspects identified and later charged when the state made a push to clear its rape kit backlog. Months after he was charged in Utah County, an online obituary claimed Rossi had died on February 29 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But police in his home state of Rhode Island, along with his former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was dead. He was arrested in Scotland the following year while receiving treatment for Covid-19 after hospital staff in Glasgow recognised his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Rossi said he was the victim of mistaken identity, claiming to be an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. Months of court proceedings in Edinburgh followed but in November 2022, Sheriff Norman McFadyen determined the man claiming to be Knight was indeed Rossi. A hearing took place in June 2023, with Sheriff McFadyen ruling there was no barrier to Rossis extradition. An extradition warrant was signed in September 2023 and Rossi was finally sent to the US in January 2024. Investigators say they identified at least a dozen aliases Rossi used over the years to evade capture. Throughout trials in Scotland and the US, Rossi appeared in a wheelchair and sometimes with an oxygen mask (Andrew Milligan/PA) He appeared in court this week in a wheelchair, wearing a suit and tie and using an oxygen tank. Throughout the trial, prosecutors painted a picture of an intelligent man who used his charm to take advantage of a vulnerable young woman. She was living with her parents and recovering from a traumatic brain injury when she responded to a personal ad Rossi posted on Craigslist. They began dating and were engaged within about two weeks. On Monday, the woman described being asked to pay for their dates, cover Rossis car repairs, lend him 1,000 dollars so he wouldnt be evicted from his apartment and take on debt to buy their engagement rings. He grew hostile soon after their engagement and raped her in his bedroom one night after she drove him home, she testified. The woman said dismissive comments from her parents convinced her not to go to the police at the time. She came forward a decade later after she saw him in the news and learned he was accused of another rape from the same year. Rossis lawyers sought to convince the jury that his accuser built up years of resentment after he made her foot the bill for everything in their month-long relationship. They argued she accused him of rape to get back at him years later, when he was getting media attention. Nicholas Rossi is set to stand trial in September for another rape charge in Utah County (Firecrest Films/AP) Lawyers for Rossi did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment after the verdict. Rossis accuser in the Utah County case did, however, go to the police at the time. She gave evidence on Tuesday about her own experiences with Rossi, though he will not stand trial for that rape charge until next month. Rossi is accused of attacking the second woman, another former girlfriend, at his apartment in Orem in September 2008 after she came to collect money she said he stole from her to buy a computer. When police initially interviewed Rossi, he claimed she had raped him and threatened to have him killed. Rossi grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and had returned there before allegedly faking his death. He was previously wanted in the state for failing to register as a sex offender. The FBI has said he also faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelenskyy have said there is strong resolve for peace in Ukraine ahead of highly anticipated talks between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The two leaders expressed cautious optimism about the prospect of a truce as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about ending the war, as they met on Wednesday, a Downing Street statement said. In a separate statement, Mr Zelenskyy said there had been discussions about the security guarantees required to make any deal truly durable if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killing. Mr Starmer hosted the Ukrainian president for a private breakfast in No 10 on Thursday as Europe braces for the face-to-face meeting between the US president and his Russian counterpart in Alaska on Friday. European leaders are hopeful about the potential for a ceasefire after a joint call with Mr Trump on Wednesday, during which he reportedly told them his goal for the summit was to secure a ceasefire. But concerns linger over the prospect of Kyiv being excluded from negotiations over its own future, and pressured to cede territory, after the US leader suggested any agreement may need to involve swapping of land. Ukraine has already rejected any proposal that would compromise its borders. In a readout of the morning meeting between Mr Starmer and Mr Zelenskyy, a Downing Street spokesman said: They had a private breakfast, where they discussed yesterdays meetings. They agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after their meeting at 10 Downing Street (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The Ukrainian president, who was warmly embraced by the Labour leader, with a red carpet rolled out for his arrival in Downing Street, said the meeting had been good and productive. But he urged the UK to join PURL- Natos Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List initiative, to provide weapons to Kyiv. It is important that, within the framework of the coalition of the willing, we should all be able to achieve effective formats for security cooperation, he said. We also discussed the continuation of support programs for our army and our defense industry. Under any scenario, Ukraine will maintain its strength. Keir and I also talked about such mechanisms for weapons supplies as the PURL programme, and I urged the UK to join. It comes as The Times newspaper reported that Britain was planning to scale back its plans for a military peacekeeping force in Ukraine. British military chiefs are now said to be involving air reassurance over western Ukraine, training support to the Ukrainian military and the clearance of mines from the Black Sea. Further sanctions could be imposed on Russia should the Kremlin fail to engage and the UK is already working on its next package of measures targeting Moscow, he said. Were ready to support this, including from the plans weve already drawn up to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased, Mr Starmer told allies on Wednesday. It is important to remind colleagues that we do stand ready also to increase pressure on Russia, particularly the economy, with sanctions and wider measures as may be necessary. Retailers are up against a brutal truth. Nearly 7 out of 10 shoppers walk away at the last moment leaving full carts and lost revenue behind. Whats happening: Australian retailers are scrambling to match the breakneck pace of digital-native consumers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, who expect instant gratification, intuitive interfaces, and real-time support across all touchpoints. Why this matters: With retail trade surging 1.2% in June 2025 and nearly 70% of online shopping carts abandoned due to friction, retailers who cant match customer speed risk losing substantial revenue to more agile competitors. The Australian Bureau of Statistics recently released retail trade data showing a 1.2% surge in June 2025, as shoppers capitalised on End of Financial Year bargains. But beneath these promising numbers lies a more complex story about the relentless pace of modern consumer expectations. Industry expert Maurice Zicman, who is also the Vice President of CX Strategy at TP Australia, argues that retailers face an unprecedented challenge: matching the speed of their customers or watching them click away to competitors. Digital natives demand instant everything The numbers tell a stark story. According to a Business Insights report consumers have fundamentally changed how they shop and interact with brands. Gen Z and millennials, representing massive spending power, dont just prefer digital experiences they live them. They want instant gratification, intuitive interfaces, fast and free shipping and returns, and real-time customer support, Zicman explains. If one business cant deliver on those expectations, another option is only a swipe or click away. This shift has created what industry experts call a customer acceleration era, where consumers say one in ten of their interactions with brands results in a very poor customer experience, according to recent Qualtrics research. The 70% problem haunting checkouts Perhaps nowhere is this speed imperative more critical than at the point of purchase. Nearly 70% of online shopping carts are abandoned, often due to complex checkout processes, lack of payment options, or slow site speeds, based on Baymard Institute data. Every click is a potential drop-off point, Zicman notes. Simplifying the path to purchase and making it feel intuitive across desktop, mobile and social channels is no longer optional, its expected. The most innovative retailers are responding by integrating conversational AI within their social media channels, allowing customers to chat in real time for help with sizing, availability, or style advice. This approach generates incremental revenue while reducing friction across the customer journey. Beyond algorithms: the human touch Despite AIs growing prominence, Zicman emphasises that emotional intelligence remains a critical differentiator. Customers remember how a brand makes them feel, whether they feel heard, understood and valued, he says. The most successful retailers are adopting a powered by EI, enabled by AI approach. This strategy uses AI to handle repetitive queries while empowering service teams to focus on emotionally charged interactions like failed deliveries, returns, or payment issues. Consumer trust declined 4% to 71%, advocacy fell 3% to 69%, and intent to rebuy dropped 4% to 69% in 2023, according to Qualtrics research, highlighting the importance of meaningful customer connections. Data goldmine remains largely untapped Most retailers sit on substantial customer data but struggle to transform it into actionable insights. AI can help create hyper-personalised experiences at scale, predicting cart abandonment, recommending products, and crafting resonant messaging. Were also seeing growing interest in generative AI for everything from trend forecasting to dynamic product design, Zicman observes. In a market where the definition of in style changes by the hour, this technology can help brands scale faster, test smarter and stay ahead of whats next. Recent research shows that while Australian consumers report fewer poor experiences than the global average, expectations for improved service continue rising. The agility imperative Australian retailers must embrace agile decision-making and invest in transformation technologies that enable real-time responses to customer needs. This means partnerships with specialised providers, AI-powered customer service integration, and data-driven personalisation strategies. The key ingredients for retail success increasingly centre on technological capabilities that enhance rather than replace human expertise. When a business isnt evolving as fast as its customers do, its time to ask why, Zicman concludes. In the race to win the modern shopper, speed is no longer a luxury, its an expectation. The retailers that will thrive are those who recognise that customer acceleration isnt just about faster delivery or quicker responses its about creating seamless, emotionally intelligent experiences that make every interaction feel effortless and intuitive. Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Popular Chinese hotpot chain Haidilao will cease operations at its flagship Singapore outlet in Clarke Quay on August 31 as its lease expires. Haidilao notified its members of the closure via a text message Wednesday, according to The Business Times. The outlet was opened in 2012 as Haidilaos first location outside of China. A customer walks past a hotpot restaurant of Haidilao in Hangzhou city, east China's Zhejiang province, Sept. 26, 2018. Photo by AFP "This was our very first outlet in Singapore and served as an introduction to Chinese hotpot for many local diners," said Haidilao Singapore spokesperson. "It also holds countless fond memories for our team and guests alike." The closure follows Haidilaos recent shuttering of three suburban restaurants in Singapores Bedok, Pasir Ris, and Punggol areas after a period of rapid expansion. A Haidilao spokesperson said earlier that key business considerations include labor costs, outlet locations, and rental expenses. A spokesperson for CQ @ Clarke Quay, an iconic landmark for both locals and tourists, expressed appreciation for Haidilaos "close partnership over the past 13 years." "Given Haidilaos strong presence across the island, we have mutually agreed that it is time for Haidilao Hotpots #1 Store unit to be refreshed with a new tenant at the end of its lease." "We remain close partners in China, Malaysia, and Singapore." Haidilao will be offering dining vouchers worth over SGD800,000 (US$625,000) to eligible members, according to online media outlet Mothership. These vouchers can be used without a minimum spend requirement at any Haidilao location throughout Singapore. Haidilao now has over 16 outlets in Singapore, among its more than 110 restaurants globally, including in the U.S, Canada and Australia. The protest represents a multi-dimensional struggle: economic, geopolitical, and ethical. Written by Elvis Takahashi Mantello Globalvoices.org ) Despite the lingering summer heat in Athens, Greek protesters gathered at the port of Piraeus on the night of July 16th to block the loading of military cargo suspected to be bound for Israel, part of a growing wave of similar demonstrations. The protest focused on the Ever Golden cargo ship, which activists believed was carrying steel intended for Israeli military use. Organized by Greek trade unions, leftist groups, anarchists, and communist collectives, the protest reflected the mounting public anger over what many see as Greeces complicity in Israels ongoing assault on Gaza. In a powerful act of solidarity, protesters attempted to delay port operations, seeking to prevent material support for violence and to raise awareness about Greeces role in the conflict. Protesters filled the piers with Palestinian flags, keffiyehs, and T-shirts bearing the slogan Free Palestine, chanting, among other slogans, No cooperation with Israel no port for genocide. A Greek user, likely affiliated with the group featured in the video, expresses solidarity with the protestors at Piraeus: At the demonstration, a wide coalition of Greek citizens rallied against what they viewed as unacceptable support for Israels actions against Gaza. Activists surrounded the port, lit flares, chanted slogans of solidarity with Palestine, and demanded that Greece end its involvement in facilitating military exports. he dockworkers union (ENEDEP) at Piraeus Container Terminal, owned by the Greek state and operated by Piraeus Port Authority (PPA), majority owned by China COSCO Shipping, played a key role in organizing the protest. In a public statement, the union announced that it would not allow the five containers, suspected of containing military-grade steel, to be unloaded while the ship remained docked. According to Union President Markos Bekris, the cargo was believed to be headed to Israel. He warned that if the shipment continued, the union would be prepared to escalate the protests. The Greek publics growing anti-war stance At the protest, they held banners condemning both the Greek and Israeli governments. Organizers framed their actions not only as anti-Zionist, but also as a rejection of Greeces growing role as a logistical enabler of foreign wars. The message from protesters was clear: the Greek people do not want to be complicit in what is widely seen as genocide in Gaza. Demonstrators condemned the New Democracy government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, for facilitating military exports to Israel and for maintaining close relations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, even as reports of indiscriminate bombings of civilians in Gaza increase. The Mitsotakis-Netanyahu coalition Many activists pointed to the deepening ties between Greece and Israel as a source of frustration and outrage. While Prime Minister Mitsotakis publicly described Israeli actions in Gaza as unjustifiable back in May, his government has continued to ramp up military and strategic cooperation with the Israeli state. According to reports, Greece has significantly increased its purchase of Israeli military technology, including drone systems, missile defence equipment, and cyber surveillance tools. Joint military exercises between the two countries have also become more frequent, particularly in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, where energy exploration and regional tensions have made such alliances increasingly strategic. These developments go beyond pragmatic diplomacy and instead signal ideological alignment. In the eyes of protesters, Mitsotakis is not simply cooperating with Netanyahu but actively supporting him. Beyond the issue of direct military support, Greeces silence on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has become a major point of public discontent. The New Democracy government has not offered substantial humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, opened safe channels for Palestinian refugees, or applied significant diplomatic pressure on Israel to halt its offensive. While most of the European Unions foreign ministers supported a Dutch proposal to review the blocs ties with Israel over its actions in Gaza, Greece and Cyprus did not join the initiative. Greece also did not co-sign a joint statement, endorsed by 22 other countries, condemning Israel for creating famine conditions in Gaza. Activists view this as a blatant disregard for human, and specifically Palestinian, life. While Gaza faces mass displacement, infrastructure destruction, forced starvation, and what numerous observers, including UN officials, have called genocide, the Greek government has remained unmoved. This indifference, many argue, mirrors the governments broader policies targeting vulnerable populations. Just weeks before the July protests, the Greek government announced it would suspend the processing of asylum applications from North Africa, citing a recent increase in arrivals on southern Greek Aegean Sea islands. This decision fits into a broader anti-migrant stance that has characterized the New Democracy administration: fortified borders, the criminalization of migration, and systematic pushbacks. One could argue that the governments treatment of displaced people parallels its neglect of Palestinians, both seen as disposable populations in service of geopolitical interests. Militarism, empire logic, and local resistance For many demonstrators, opposition to military shipments is part of a larger political stance. The Piraeus protest was not only about Gaza; it was a rejection of imperialist agendas and Greeces alignment with NATO, the EU, and Israel. The location of the protest is also symbolically significant. COSCOs privatized container terminal, largely owned by Chinese state interests, underscores growing discontent with foreign control over Greek infrastructure. In this sense, the protest represents a multi-dimensional struggle: economic, geopolitical, and ethical. As of July 20, the Ever Golden remained docked at Piraeus. ENEDEP continued to uphold its position of non-cooperation. While symbolic, this act of resistance is also practical and strategic. By targeting the logistics of military conflict, including ports and freight terminals, Greek protesters are adopting classic yet effective methods of direct action. Their call to action serves as a reminder that resistance is not only expressed through marches but also through organized disruption and solidarity. TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Jaguar Mining Inc. ("Jaguar" or the "Company") (TSX:JAG)(OTCQX:JAGGF) today filed its second quarter results, the highlights of which are included in this news release. The interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 and accompanying management's discussion and analysis can be accessed by visiting the Company's website at https://jaguarmining.com or its profile page on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca . All figures are in US Dollars, unless otherwise expressed. Second Quarter 2025 Highlights All financial and operating results for the second quarter reflect contributions solely from the Company's Pilar mine, its only operating mine during the period. This compares to the second quarter of 2024, when the Company had two operating mines: Pilar and Turmalina. The Turmalina mine remains temporarily suspended following a slump of material at the dry-stack facility that occurred at the MTL complex on December 7, 2024. Rehabilitation work to ensure the stability of the Satinoco pile is well underway, and the Company currently expects the resumption of operations at Turmalina in the first quarter of 2026. Gold production for the quarter totalled 10,973 ounces, entirely from the Pilar mine, compared to 16,829 ounces from both Pilar and Turmalina in the second quarter of 2024. The year-over-year variance reflects a 14% increase in head grade, offset by a 45% reduction in ore tonnes processed. Production from Pilar increased by 11% compared to the first quarter of 2025, driven by operational efficiency improvements at the mine. Gold sold for the quarter was 10,986 ounces, compared to 19,022 ounces sold in the second quarter of 2024. Realized gold price increased to $3,264 per ounce, representing a 39% increase from the $2,354 per ounce realized in the second quarter of 2024. Cash operating costs were $1,191 per ounce of gold sold and all-in sustaining costs (AISC) were $1,814 per ounce, representing increases of 11% and 18%, respectively, compared to the second quarter of 2024. These increases mainly reflect lower sales volumes spreading fixed costs over fewer ounces. Revenue for the quarter was $35.8 million, reflecting contributions solely from the Pilar mine, compared to $44.8 million in the second quarter of 2024, when revenue included ounces produced and sold from both the Pilar and Turmalina mines. Despite the lower number of ounces sold, the impact on revenue was partially offset by higher realized gold price year-over year. Operating costs for the quarter were $13.1 million, compared to $19.9 million in the second quarter of 2024. Net loss for the quarter was $6.6 million, or $0.08 per share, compared to a net income of $13.5 million, or $0.17 per share, in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted net income for the quarter, excluding the impact of $23.5 million in expenses recorded due to the incident at the MTL complex, was $16.8 million, or $0.21 per share. Free cash flow 1 for the quarter was $11.3 million, compared to $15.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. Free cash flow is calculated as operating cash flow plus asset retirement obligation expenditures, less sustaining capital. On a per-ounce bases, free cash flow increased to $1,031 per ounce of gold sold in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $801 per ounce of gold sold in the second quarter of 2024. Cash position and working capital As of June 30, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of $48.3 million, representing a 4.1% increase from $46.4 million as of December 31, 2024 mainly reflecting the impact of higher realized gold prices. As of June 30, 2025, working capital was $11.1 million, compared to working capital of $13.7 million as of December 31, 2024. Luis Albano Tondo, CEO of Jaguar, stated : "The second quarter of 2025 represented a pivotal period for Jaguar, as we continued to operate exclusively from our Pilar mine following the temporary suspension of Turmalina late last year. We were encouraged by Pilar's robust operational performance, driven by higher head grades and ongoing efficiency improvements. While total production was lower year-over-year due to Turmalina's absence, Pilar's output increased by 3% year-over-year and 11% compared to the first quarter of 2025. A significantly higher realized gold price partially offset the impact of lower volumes on our margins. Despite reporting a net loss for the quarter, adjusted net income of $16.8 million-excluding expenses associated with the MTL incident-highlights the strength of Pilar's operating performance. Additionally, strong free cash flow per ounce underlines our ability to generate value, even as a single-asset producer. Subsequent to the quarter-end, we successfully resolved a significant environmental fine (see press release dated July 14, 2025), marking an important milestone as we advance toward the planned restart of Turmalina, targeted for the first quarter of 2026. We were also pleased to announce further exploration success at Pilar's BA zone (see press release dated August 5, 2025), where recent drilling returned a standout intercept of 12.80 g/t Au over 25.00 meters (320.00 GT - Grade x Thickness), confirming the presence of robust, high-grade mineralization at depth. With the BA zone expected to contribute approximately 50% of Pilar's future production, these results reinforce our confidence in the mine's long-term outlook. These recent achievements underscore our commitment to disciplined execution, operational excellence, and the creation of sustainable, long-term value. Looking ahead, we remain focused not only on realizing the full potential of our existing assets through organic growth, but also on pursuing select strategic growth opportunities that could further enhance shareholder value and strengthen our position as a leading mid-tier gold producer in Brazil." [1] This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. For more details, refer to the Non-GAAP Performance Measures section of the MD&A. Second Quarter 2025 Results ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Financial Data Revenue $ 35,826 $ 44,779 $ 63,115 $ 77,356 Operating costs 13,079 19,897 23,628 38,212 Depreciation 3,215 7,828 5,991 14,989 Gross profit 19,532 17,054 33,496 24,155 Net (loss) income (6,614 ) 13,469 (8,233 ) 16,295 Per share ("EPS") (0.08 ) 0.17 (0.10 ) 0.21 Adjusted Net income 1,3 16,838 13,469 20,973 16,295 Adjusted EPS 1,3 0.21 0.17 0.26 0.21 EBITDA (729 ) 25,159 2,324 37,174 Adjusted EBITDA 1,2 29,614 22,381 44,290 33,701 Adjusted EBITDA per share 1,2 0.37 0.28 0.56 0.43 Cash operating costs (per ounce sold) 1 1,191 1,046 1,151 1,101 All-in sustaining costs (per ounce sold) 1 1,814 1,517 1,740 1,558 Average realized gold price (per ounce) 1 3,264 2,354 3,078 2,228 Cash generated from operating activities 12,339 20,766 12,080 28,875 Free cash flow 1 11,327 15,233 8,763 18,739 Free cash flow (per ounce sold) 1 1,031 801 427 540 Sustaining capital expenditures 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 Non-sustaining capital expenditures 1 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Total capital expenditures 7,833 10,806 12,174 19,048 1 Average realized gold price, sustaining and non-sustaining capital expenditures, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs, free cash flow, EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to the Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures section of the MD&A. 2 Adjusted EBITDA excludes non-cash items such as impairment, foreign exchange, stock-based compensation, fair value adjustments on short-term investments and write downs. For more details refer to the Non-GAAP Performance Measures section of the MD&A. 3 Adjusted Net income does not include Satinoco incident expenses for the three and six-month ended June 30, 2025, of $23.5 million $29.6 million respectively. Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Operating Data Gold produced (ounces) 10,973 16,829 20,897 33,006 Gold sold (ounces) 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Primary development (metres) 628 1,273 1,066 2,202 Exploration development (metres) - 679 - 1,157 Secondary development (metres) 860 1,130 2,665 2,212 Definition, infill, and exploration drilling (metres) 5,755 9,229 11,194 16,072 Non-GAAP Performance Measures The Company has included the following Non-GAAP performance measures in this document: cash operating costs per ounce of gold sold, all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold, average realized gold price (per ounce of gold sold), sustaining capital expenditures, non-sustaining capital expenditures, adjusted operating cash flow, free cash flow, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), adjusted EBITDA and working capital. These Non-GAAP performance measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and, therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate the Company's performance. Accordingly, they 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. More specifically, Management believes that these figures are a useful indicator to investors and management of a mine's performance as they provide: (i) a measure of the mine's cash margin per ounce, by comparison of the cash operating costs per ounce to the price of gold; (ii) the trend in costs as the mine matures; and (iii) an internal benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other mines. The definitions of these performance measures and reconciliation of the Non-GAAP measures to reported IFRS measures are outlined below. Reconciliation of sustaining capital to non-sustaining capital expenditures 1 ($ thousands) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Sustaining capital 1 Primary development $ 2,492 $ 4,124 $ 4,180 $ 7,844 Brownfield exploration 202 312 433 640 Mine-site sustaining 1,154 1,764 1,980 2,713 Other sustaining capital 2 203 101 386 209 Total sustaining capital 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 Non-sustaining capital (including capital projects) 1 Mine-site non-sustaining 714 3,737 1,503 6,374 Asset retirement obligation - non-sustaining 2 3,039 768 3,662 1,270 Other non-sustaining capital 1 29 - 30 (2 ) Total non-sustaining capital 1 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Total capital expenditures $ 7,833 $ 10,806 $ 12,174 $ 19,048 1 Sustaining and non-sustaining capital are non-GAAP financial measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Refer to the non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures section of the MD&A. Capital expenditures are included in the calculation of all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs. 2 Asset retirement obligation - non-sustaining is related to expenditures with dam closing projects. Payments related to the Company asset retirement obligation are classified as operating activities in accordance with IFRS financial measures. Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Cash generated from operating activities $ 12,339 $ 20,766 $ 12,080 $ 28,875 Adjustments Asset Retirement Obligation 3,039 768 3,662 1,270 Sustaining capital expenditures 2 (4,051 ) (6,301 ) (6,979 ) (11,406 ) Free cash flow $ 11,327 $ 15,233 $ 8,763 $ 18,739 Ounces of gold sold 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Free cash flow per ounce sold $ 1,031 $ 801 $ 427 $ 540 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. 2 Further details on the sustaining capital expenditures composition can be found on the reconciliation of sustaining capital and non-sustaining capital expenditures in the non-GAAP reconciliation. Reconciliation of Cash Operating Costs, All-In Sustaining Costs and All-In Costs per Ounce Sold 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Operating costs $ 13,079 $ 19,897 $ 23,628 $ 38,212 General & administration expenses 3 2,196 2,097 4,551 3,896 Corporate stock-based compensation 615 428 618 436 Sustaining capital expenditures 1 4,051 6,301 6,979 11,406 All-in sustaining cash costs 19,941 28,723 35,776 53,950 Reclamation (operating sites) (12 ) 125 (56 ) 145 All-in sustaining costs $ 19,929 $ 28,848 $ 35,720 $ 54,095 Non-sustaining capital expenditures 3,782 4,505 5,195 7,642 Exploration and evaluation costs (greenfield) 462 378 857 960 Reclamation (non-operating sites) 1,818 (50 ) 1,306 (63 ) Care and maintenance (non-operating sites) 4 9,957 150 18,276 340 All-in costs $ 35,948 $ 33,831 $ 61,354 $ 62,974 Ounces of gold sold 10,986 19,022 20,530 34,714 Cash operating costs per ounce sold 2 $ 1,191 $ 1,046 $ 1,151 $ 1,101 All-in sustaining costs per ounce sold 2 $ 1,814 $ 1,517 $ 1,740 $ 1,558 All-in costs per ounce sold 2 $ 3,272 $ 1,779 $ 2,989 $ 1,814 Average realized gold price $ 3,264 $ 2,354 $ 3,078 $ 2,228 Cash operating margin per ounce sold $ 2,073 $ 1,308 $ 1,927 $ 1,127 All-in sustaining margin per ounce sold $ 1,450 $ 837 $ 1,338 $ 670 1 Capital expenditures are included in our calculation of all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs. 2 Cash operating costs, all-in sustaining costs and all-in costs are all non-GAAP financial performance measures with no standard definition under IFRS. Result may not calculate due to rounding. 3 Does not include G&A expenses related to Oncas de Pitangui (Q2 2025: $83 and YTD: $229). 4 Includes care and maintenance for Turmalina (resumption expenses and disbursements related to environmental and communities) and care and maintenance costs for Paciencia and Roca Grande mines. Reconciliation of Net Income to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA 1 ($ thousands, except where indicated) Three months ended Six months ended June 30 June 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net (loss) Income $ (6,614 ) $ 13,469 $ (8,233 ) $ 16,295 Income tax expense 537 3,273 1,131 4,522 Finance costs 2,098 556 3,364 1,301 Depreciation and amortization 3,250 7,861 6,062 15,056 EBITDA 1 $ (729 ) $ 25,159 $ 2,324 $ 37,174 Changes in other provisions and VAT taxes 3,047 309 3,453 817 Satinoco event 23,452 - 29,206 - Foreign exchange loss (gain) 3,785 (3,515 ) 9,675 (4,726 ) Stock-based compensation 615 428 618 436 Financial instruments (gain) (556 ) - (986 ) - Adjusted EBITDA 1 $ 29,614 $ 22,381 $ 44,290 $ 33,701 Weighted average outstanding shares 79,313,603 79,093,609 79,312,658 79,080,137 Adjusted EBITDA per share 1 $ 0.37 $ 0.28 $ 0.56 $ 0.43 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. Working capital 1 June 30 December 31 ($ thousands) 2025 2024 Cash and cash equivalents $ 48,286 $ 46,357 Other current assets: Short term investment 2,426 1,438 Restricted cash 1,074 923 Inventory 15,517 15,343 Recoverable taxes 3,226 3,933 Other accounts receivable 904 328 Prepaid expenses and advances 1,752 2,226 Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (16,398 ) (15,803 ) Notes payable (2,012 ) (3,044 ) Lease liabilities (1,332 ) (1,363 ) Current tax liability (350 ) (1,422 ) Other taxes payable (293 ) (487 ) Reclamation provisions (6,204 ) (8,585 ) Legal and other provisions (35,538 ) (26,174 ) Working capital 1 $ 11,058 $ 13,670 1 This is a non-GAAP financial performance measure with no standard definition under IFRS. Qualified Person Scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Luis Albano Tondo, BSc Mining Eng, MEngSc, MBA, FAusIMM, who is also of the CEO of Jaguar Mining Inc. and is a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The Iron Quadrangle The Iron Quadrangle has been an area of mineral exploration dating back to the 16th century. The discovery in 1699-1701 of gold contaminated with iron and platinum-group metals in the southeastern corner of the Iron Quadrangle gave rise to the name of the town Ouro Preto (Black Gold). The Iron Quadrangle contains world-class multi-million-ounce gold deposits such as Morro Velho, Cuiaba, and Sao Bento. Jaguar holds the third largest gold land position in the Iron Quadrangle with over 45,000 hectares. About Jaguar Mining Inc. Jaguar Mining Inc. is a Canadian-listed junior gold mining, development, and exploration company operating in Brazil with three gold mining complexes and a large land package with significant upside exploration potential from mineral claims. The Company's principal operating assets are located in the Iron Quadrangle, a prolific greenstone belt in the state of Minas Gerais and include the MTL complex (Turmalina mine and plant) and Caete complex (Pilar and Roca Grande mines, and Caete plant). The Roca Grande mine has been on temporary care and maintenance since April 2019. The Company also owns the Paciencia complex (Santa Isabel mine and plant), which had been on care and maintenance since 2012 and is currently being evaluated for a potential restart. Additional information is available on the Company's website at www.jaguarmining.com . For further information please contact: Luis Albano Tondo Chief Executive Officer Jaguar Mining Inc. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. +55 31-99959-6337 Marina de Freitas Interim Chief Financial Officer This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. +55 31-98463-5344 Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking information made in this news release is qualified by the cautionary statements below and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators in Canada. Forward-looking information contained in forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "are expected," "is forecast," "is targeted," "approximately," "plans," "anticipates," "projects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "believe" 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. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, may be considered to be or include forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the duration of the temporary suspension of the Company's MTL complex in the wake of the slump at its Satinoco dry tailings pile, the cost and timing of resuming operations at the MTL complex, the Company's ability to advance and complete its plan to resume operations at the MTL complex in accordance with (and as contemplated by) the above, the future stability of the tailings pile in question and safety of the Turmalina mine, the amount, timing and payment terms of any fines imposed on the Company, as well as any costs and damages arising from any civil or criminal lawsuits, resulting from the tailings pile slump, management's expectations regarding potential outcomes of any ongoing legal matters relating to the tailings pile slump, management's expectations regarding the Company's response to the tailings pile slump and the Company's recovery and remediation efforts at the MTL complex, any information and statements related to future operations at any of the Company's properties, including Pilar and Turmalina, any information and statements related to expected growth, sales, production statistics, ore grades, tonnes milled, recovery rates, cash operating costs, definition/delineation drilling, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of projects and new deposits, success of exploration, development and mining activities, currency fluctuations, capital requirements, project studies, mine life extensions, restarting suspended or disrupted operations, continuous improvement initiatives, and resolution of pending litigation. The Company has made numerous assumptions with respect to forward-looking information contained herein, including, among other things, assumptions about the future and long-term stability of the Satinoco tailings pile; there will be no unforeseen adverse weather events or other external factors that could delay the Company's recovery or remediation efforts; the current assumptions regarding the extent of the damage and timeline for repairs at the MTL complex remain accurate and will not require significant revision as further assessments are completed; the estimated timeline for recommencing operations at the MTL complex; the estimated timeline for the development of the Company's mineral properties; the supply and demand for, and the level and volatility of the price of, gold; the accuracy of reserve and resource estimates and the assumptions on which the reserve and resource estimates are based; the receipt of necessary permits; market competition; ongoing relations with employees and impacted communities; political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Company operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, the impact of any potential power rationing, tailings facility regulation, exploration and mine operating licenses and permits being obtained and renewed and/or there being adverse amendments to mining or other laws in Brazil and any changes to general business and economic conditions. Forward-looking information involves a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including among others: the risk of Jaguar not meeting the timelines and achieving the milestones outlined above regarding the Company's current plan and process for resuming operations at the MTL complex, the risk of Jaguar not meeting the forecast plans regarding its operations and financial performance; uncertainties with respect to the price of gold, labour disruptions, mechanical failures, increase in costs, environmental compliance and change in environmental legislation and regulation, weather delays and increased costs or production delays due to natural disasters, power disruptions, procurement and delivery of parts and supplies to the operations; uncertainties inherent to capital markets in general (including the sometimes volatile valuation of securities and an uncertain ability to raise new capital) and other risks inherent to the gold exploration, development and production industry, which, if incorrect, may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated by the Company and described herein. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of gold exploration, development, mining and production, including environmental hazards, tailings dam failures, industrial accidents and workplace safety problems, unusual or unexpected geological formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding, chemical spills, procurement fraud and gold bullion thefts and losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or the inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. 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 Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion and Analysis, as well as other public disclosure documents that can be accessed under the issuer profile of "Jaguar Mining Inc." on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com . The forward-looking information set forth herein reflects the Company's reasonable expectations as at the date of this news release and is subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - First Majestic Silver Corp. (NYSE: AG) (TSX: AG) (FSE: FMV) (the "Company" or "First Majestic") is pleased to announce the Company's unaudited condensed interim consolidated financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. The full version of the financial statements and the accompanying management's discussion and analysis can be viewed on the Company's website at www.firstmajestic.com or on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. All amounts are in U.S. dollars unless stated otherwise. SECOND QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS Robust Silver Equivalent Production (+48% Y/Y): The Company produced 7.9 million silver equivalent ("AgEq") ounces, including 3.7 million silver ounces, in Q2 2025 representing a 48% increase compared to 5.3 million silver equivalent ounces produced in Q2 2024. Record Quarterly Revenue (+94% Y/Y): For a second consecutive quarter, the Company achieved a quarterly revenue record of $264.2 million (54% from silver sales), representing a 94% increase compared to $136.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. This was primarily attributed to a 42% increase in AgEq payable ounces sold and a 24% rise in the average realized silver price which reached $34.62 per AgEq ounce during the quarter. Higher Mine Operating Earnings (+$33.9 million Y/Y): The Company achieved quarterly mine operating earnings of $49.4 million, representing a significant increase compared to $15.5 million in Q2 2024. Excluding non-cash depletion expense, the Company generated mine operating earnings of $100.9 million. Record Earnings Before Income Tax, Depreciation and Amortization ("EBITDA") (+$98.7 million Y/Y): EBITDA for the quarter was a record $119.9 million, representing a significant increase compared to $21.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. Net Earnings (+$104.8 million Y/Y): Net earnings for the quarter were $56.6 million (EPS of $0.11) compared to a net loss of $48.3 million (EPS of ($0.17)) in the second quarter of 2024. The increase in net earnings was primarily driven by higher mine operating earnings and benefitted from a non-cash deferred income tax recovery of $39.6 million (EPS of $0.08), compared to a non-cash deferred income tax expense of $22.6 million (EPS of ($0.08)) in the second quarter of 2024, and was partially offset by a higher non-cash depletion and depreciation expense. Additionally, the Company, as expected, incurred higher general and administrative costs related to the integration of the Los Gatos Silver Mine. The Company expects to realize significant synergies and cost reductions after the integration of Los Gatos is complete. Adjusted Net Earnings (+$38.8 million Y/Y): Adjusted net earnings, excluding non-cash or non-recurring items such as deferred income tax, share-based payments, abnormal costs, and unrealized gains/losses on marketable securities, were $18.4 million (adjusted EPS of $0.04), representing a significant increase compared to the adjusted net loss of $20.4 million (adjusted EPS of ($0.07)) in the second quarter of 2024. Cash Flow from Operations (+$91.1 million Y/Y): Operating cash flow before changes in working capital and taxes in the quarter was a record $114.9 million or $0.24 per share, representing a significant increase compared to $23.8 million or $0.08 per share in the second quarter of 2024. Record Free Cash Flow (+$71.4 million Y/Y): The Company generated a quarterly record of $77.9 million in free cash flow in the second quarter after making a $30.6 million income tax true-up payment related to 2024 taxes, compared to $6.4 million in free cash flow in the second quarter of 2024. A portion of this free cash flow is being reinvested into growth capital, primarily focused on exploration and development projects, to enhance confidence in resource estimates and extend the life-of-mine across the operations. Record Cash Position: During the quarter, the Company increased its treasury position to a record total of $510.1 million, consisting of $384.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $125.3 million in restricted cash. Liquidity also reached a record $583.8 million, consisting of $444.1 million of working capital and $139.6 million of undrawn revolving credit facility, excluding $125.3 million held in restricted cash. Cash Costs (-1% Y/Y): Consolidated cash costs of $15.08 per AgEq ounce for the quarter were a slight improvement when compared with $15.29 per AgEq ounce in the second quarter of 2024. All-In Sustaining Cost ("AISC") (-3% Y/Y): Consolidated AISC in the quarter was $21.02 per AgEq ounce, representing a 3% decrease from $21.64 per AgEq ounce in the second quarter of 2024. Continued success at First Mint (+$4.5 million Y/Y) : First Mint, LLC, the Company's 100%-owned minting facility, generated quarterly sales of $7.8 million compared to $3.3 million in the second quarter of 2024. Held Inventory: The Company held 424,272 silver ounces in finished goods inventory as at June 30, 2025, inclusive of coins and bullion. The fair value of this inventory at June 30, 2025 was $15.3 million, which was not included in revenue during the second quarter. Sustainability Recognition: As of July 2025, ISS ESG upgraded First Majestic to Prime ESG investment status, recognizing the Company's strong sustainability performance. Additionally, First Majestic scored 44/100 in the latest S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, ranking in the top 26% of companies in the metals and mining industry. Purchased Common Shares: The Company purchased and cancelled an aggregate of 506,000 common shares at an average price of CAD$7.94 per share through the facilities of the TSX pursuant to its normal course issuer bid during the second quarter of 2025. Second Quarter Dividend: The Company declared a cash dividend of $0.0048 per common share for the second quarter of 2025 for shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 29, 2025, to be paid out on or about September 15, 2025. OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Key Performance Metrics 2025-Q2 2025-Q1 Change Q2 vs Q1 2024-Q2 Change Q2 vs Q2 Operational(1) Ore Processed / Tonnes Milled 1,003,804 944,373 6% 674,570 49% Silver Ounces Produced 3,701,995 3,704,503 0% 2,104,181 76% Gold Ounces Produced 33,865 36,469 (7%) 39,339 (14%) Silver Equivalent Ounces Produced 7,852,311 7,711,709 2% 5,289,439 48% Cash Costs per Silver Equivalent Ounce(2) $ 15.08 $ 13.68 10% $ 15.29 (1%) All-in Sustaining Cost per Silver Equivalent Ounce(2) $ 21.02 $ 19.24 9% $ 21.64 (3%) Total Production Cost per Tonne(2) $ 104.45 $ 97.71 7% $ 113.16 (8%) Average Realized Silver Price per Silver Equivalent Ounce(2) $ 34.62 $ 32.50 7% $ 27.81 24% Financial (in $millions) Revenues $ 264.2 $ 243.9 8% $ 136.2 94% Mine Operating Earnings $ 49.4 $ 63.8 (23%) $ 15.5 NM Net Earnings (Loss) $ 56.6 $ 6.2 NM ($48.3 ) NM Operating Cash Flows before Non-Cash Working Capital and Taxes $ 114.9 $ 110.0 4% $ 23.8 NM Capital Expenditures $ 56.0 $ 36.1 55% $ 28.3 98% Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 384.8 $ 351.3 10% $ 152.2 153% Restricted Cash $ 125.3 $ 106.1 18% $ 117.5 7% Working Capital(2) $ 444.1 $ 404.8 10% $ 229.9 93% EBITDA(2) $ 119.9 $ 98.8 21% $ 21.2 NM Adjusted EBITDA(2) $ 125.3 $ 109.7 14% $ 26.4 NM Free Cash Flow(2) $ 77.9 $ 43.5 79% $ 6.4 NM Shareholders Earnings (Loss) per Share ("EPS") - Basic $ 0.11 $ 0.01 NM ($0.17 ) 165% Adjusted EPS(1) $ 0.04 $ 0.05 (20%) ($0.07 ) 157% NM - Not meaningful Operational metrics calculated in the table above are reported on an attributable basis to account for the 70% ownership of the Los Gatos Silver Mine. The Company reports certain non-GAAP measures which include cash costs per AgEq ounce produced, cash costs per Au ounce produced, AISC per AgEq ounce produced, all-in sustaining cost per Au ounce produced, total production cost per tonne, average realized silver price per AgEq ounce sold, average realized Au price per ounce sold, working capital, adjusted EPS, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance, but do not have a standardized meaning under the Company's financial reporting framework and the methods used by the Company to calculate such measures may differ from methods used by other companies with similar descriptions. See "Non-GAAP Measures" at the end of this news release for further details of these measures. SECOND QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS The Company generated record quarterly revenue of $264.2 million in the second quarter of 2025, with 54% derived from silver sales, representing a 94% increase compared to $136.2 million of revenue generated in the same period in the prior year. This was primarily attributable to a 42% increase in payable AgEq ounces sold, mainly driven by: the addition of the Los Gatos Silver Mine to the Company's portfolio of operating mines, which contributed $103.1 million in revenue; a notable 17% production increase at San Dimas, which contributed $65.1 million in revenue; and continued strong performance at Santa Elena, which contributed $74.5 million in revenue. Further, the average realized silver price increased by 24% during the quarter to $34.62 per ounce compared to the second quarter of 2024. For the second consecutive quarter, the Company reported a record-high treasury balance of $510.1 million, despite making a $30.6 million tax installment payment and the 2024 annual bonus payments, consisting of $384.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $125.3 million in restricted cash. This represents an increase of 65% compared to a total treasury balance of $308.3 million at December 31, 2024 (consisting of $202.2 million in cash and cash equivalents and $106.1 million in restricted cash). Additionally, working capital reached a record high of $444.1 million, representing a 98% increase compared to $224.5 million in working capital at December 31, 2024. The Company achieved mine operating earnings of $49.4 million, representing a significant increase of $33.9 million compared to mine operating earnings of $15.5 million in the second quarter of 2024. The increase was mainly driven by the addition of the Los Gatos Silver Mine, which contributed $20.6 million in mine operating earnings during the quarter. Additionally, the improvement in performance at San Dimas and La Encantada increased mine operating earnings by $6.7 million and $4.4 million, respectively, compared to the second quarter of 2024. These increases in mine operating earnings were partially offset by higher contractor and energy costs at San Dimas that supported improvements in production. Additionally, maintenance costs were higher as a result of weather-related power outages at San Dimas, La Encantada and Los Gatos in late June. Mine operating earnings were further impacted by a higher non-cash depletion expense, primarily driven by the addition of Los Gatos and increased overall production. Operating cash flow before changes in working capital and taxes in the quarter was a record $114.9 million, representing a significant increase compared to $23.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. This was primarily driven by the $76.0 million increase in mine operating earnings, excluding depletion, depreciation and amortization, compared to the second quarter of 2024. EBITDA for the quarter was a record $119.9 million, representing a significant increase compared to $21.2 million in the second quarter of 2024. The increase in EBITDA was primarily attributable to the increase in mine operating earnings. Adjusted EBITDA normalized for non-cash or non-recurring items such as share-based payments, abnormal costs, and unrealized gains on marketable securities for the quarter was $125.3 million, representing a significant increase compared to $26.4 million in the second quarter of 2024. Net earnings for the quarter were $56.6 million (EPS of $0.11) representing a significant increase compared to a net loss of $48.3 million (EPS of ($0.17)) in the second quarter of 2024. The increase in net earnings was primarily attributed to higher mine operating earnings compared to the second quarter of 2024. This was partially offset by a non-cash depletion and depreciation expense of $73.7 million (EPS of ($0.15)), compared to $31.6 million (EPS of ($0.11)) in the second quarter of 2024 driven by higher production and the addition of Los Gatos, and a non-cash deferred income tax recovery of $39.6 million (EPS of $0.08), compared to a non-cash deferred income tax expense of $22.6 million (EPS ($0.08)) in the second quarter of 2024. Additionally, the Company incurred higher general and administrative costs related to the integration of the Los Gatos Silver Mine, including costs associated with insurance, travel, legal fees, system implementation and consulting services. The Company expects to realize significant synergies and cost reductions after the integration of Los Gatos is complete. Adjusted net earnings normalized for non-cash or non-recurring items such as share-based payments, unrealized losses on marketable securities, acquisition costs and deferred income tax for the quarter ended June 30, 2025 was $18.4 million (adjusted EPS of $0.04), representing a significant increase compared to the adjusted net loss of $20.4 million (adjusted EPS of ($0.07)) in the second quarter of 2024. SECOND QUARTER OPERATIONAL RESULTS The table below represents the quarterly operating and cost performance results at each of the Company's four producing mines during the quarter. Second Quarter Production Summary Los Gatos(1) Santa Elena San Dimas La Encantada Consolidated Ore Processed / Tonnes Milled 233,480 269,830 219,198 281,296 1,003,804 Silver Ounces Produced 1,524,949 306,224 1,242,717 628,105 3,701,995 Gold Ounces Produced 706 20,637 12,472 49 33,865 Silver Equivalent Ounces Produced(2) 2,436,722(3) 2,318,618 2,464,029 632,942 7,852,311 Cash Costs per Silver Equivalent Ounce $12.44 $13.57 $15.66 $27.19 $15.08 AISC per Silver Equivalent Ounce $13.70 $18.58 $20.10 $31.94 $21.02 Total Production Cost per Tonne $91.65 $107.02 $173.88 $58.53 $104.45 All production and non-GAAP results shown in the table above are reported on an attributable basis to account for the Company's 70% ownership of the Los Gatos Silver Mine through its joint venture ownership of the mine. The metal prices that were used to calculate the silver equivalent ounces were, silver: $33.46/oz, gold: $3,270.57/oz, lead: $0.88/lb., zinc: $1.20/lb. Attributable silver equivalent ounces for Los Gatos includes 16,063,947 lbs. zinc and 9,014,545 lbs. lead (70%). The Company produced 7.9 million attributable AgEq ounces in Q2 2025 representing a 48% increase compared to 5.3 million AgEq ounces produced in Q2 2024. Furthermore, the Company reported strong quarterly silver production of 3.7 million silver ounces representing a 76% increase compared to 2.1 million silver ounces produced in Q2 2024. Total silver production in the quarter included 1.5 million ounces of attributable silver production from Los Gatos as well as a 9% increase at San Dimas compared to Q2 2024 primarily due to operational improvements. Consolidated cash cost per attributable payable AgEq ounce for the quarter was $15.08, representing a slight improvement when compared with $15.29 per ounce in the second quarter of 2024. The decrease in cash costs per AgEq ounce was primarily due to a 48% increase in AgEq ounces produced, driven by the attributable production increase of 2.4 million AgEq ounces from Los Gatos, along with a 17% increase in AgEq production at San Dimas as a result of operational efficiencies and increased plant throughput rates. The decrease was partially offset by higher contractor and energy costs at San Dimas that helped improve and support production, as well as higher maintenance costs as a result of weather-related power outages at San Dimas, La Encantada and Los Gatos in late June. AISC per attributable payable AgEq ounce in the second quarter of 2025 was $21.02, representing a 3% decrease compared to $21.64 per ounce in the second quarter of 2024. This was primarily attributable to the decrease in cash costs, partially offset by an increase in profit sharing per AgEq ounce relating to the prior year, which was paid in the quarter. Q2 2025 DIVIDEND ANNOUNCEMENT The Company is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has declared a cash dividend in the amount of $0.0048 per common share for the second quarter of 2025. The dividend will be paid to holders of record of First Majestic's common shares as of the close of business on August 29, 2025, and will be paid out on or about September 15, 2025. Under the Company's dividend policy, the quarterly dividend per common share is targeted to equal approximately 1% of the Company's net quarterly revenues divided by the Company's then outstanding common shares. Note: In the case of net revenues generated from the Los Gatos Silver Mine (the Company holds a 70% interest in the Los Gatos Joint Venture that owns and operates the mine), 70% of the net revenue from such mine, being the revenue that is attributable to the Company, is used for the purposes of the Company's quarterly dividend calculation. The amount and distribution dates of future dividends remain at the discretion of the Board of Directors. This dividend qualifies as an "eligible dividend" for Canadian income tax purposes. Dividends paid to shareholders outside Canada (non-resident investors) may be subject to Canadian non-resident withholding taxes. CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. (PT) / 11:30 a.m. (ET) to provide investors and analysts with a business update, and to discuss its second quarter production and earnings results and updated 2025 guidance. To participate in the conference call, please use the following dial-in numbers: Canada & USA Toll-Free: +1-833-752-3407 Outside of Canada & USA: +1-647-846-2866 Toll-Free Germany: +49-69-1741-5718 Toll-Free UK: +44-20-3795-9972 Participants should dial-in at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to ensure placement in the conference on time. The live webcast link of the call will be accessible directly at this link, Q2 2025 Results Conference Call, as well as on the First Majestic home page at www.firstmajestic.com through the "August 14, 2025 Webcast Link". A webcast archive will be available approximately one hour after the end of the event and will be accessible for three months through the same link as the live event. A recording of the conference call will be available for telephone replay approximately one hour after the end of the event by calling: USA & Canada Toll-Free: +1-855-669-9658 Outside of Canada & US: +1-412-317-88 Access Code: 1902689 The telephone replay will be available for seven days following the end of the event. ABOUT FIRST MAJESTIC First Majestic is a publicly traded mining company focused on silver and gold production in Mexico and the United States. The Company presently owns and operates four producing underground mines in Mexico: the Los Gatos Silver Mine (the Company holds a 70% interest in the Los Gatos Joint Venture that owns and operates the mine), the Santa Elena Silver/Gold Mine, the San Dimas Silver/Gold Mine, and the La Encantada Silver Mine, as well as a portfolio of development and exploration assets, including the Jerritt Canyon Gold project located in northeastern Nevada, U.S.A. First Majestic is proud to own and operate its own minting facility, First Mint, LLC, and to offer a portion of its silver production for sale to the public. Bars, ingots, coins and medallions are available for purchase online at www.firstmint.com, at some of the lowest premiums available. FIRST MAJESTIC SILVER CORP. "signed" Keith Neumeyer, President & CEO Non-GAAP Financial Measures This news release includes reference to certain financial measures which are not standardized measures under the Company's financial reporting framework. These measures include cash costs per silver equivalent ounce produced, all-in sustaining cost (or "AISC") per silver equivalent ounce produced, cash costs per gold ounce produced, AISC per gold ounce produced, total production cost per tonne, average realized silver price per ounce sold, average realized gold price per ounce sold, working capital, adjusted net earnings and EPS, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, and free cash flow. 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. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance but do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The data 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. For a complete description of how the Company calculates such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to GAAP terms please see "Non-GAAP Measures" in the Company's most recent management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance, business prospects or opportunities that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management made in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the timing for the Company's dividend payment for the second quarter of 2025 and the shareholder record and payable dates in connection with such dividend payment; and anticipated future results. Assumptions may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. As such, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, assumptions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Statements concerning proven and probable mineral reserves and mineral resource estimates may also be deemed to constitute forward- looking statements to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered as and if the property is developed, and in the case of measured and indicated mineral resources or proven and probable mineral reserves, such statements reflect the conclusion based on certain assumptions that the mineral deposit can be economically exploited. 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 "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "forecast", "potential", "target", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements". Actual results may vary from forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to materially differ from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: the duration and effects of the coronavirus and COVID-19, and any other pandemics on our operations and workforce, and the effects on global economies and society; general economic conditions including inflation risks; actual results of exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; commodity prices; variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; actual performance of plant, equipment or processes relative to specifications and expectations; accidents; labour relations; relations with local communities; changes in national or local governments; changes in applicable legislation or application thereof; delays in obtaining approvals or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities; exchange rate fluctuations; requirements for additional capital; government regulation; environmental risks; reclamation expenses; outcomes of pending litigation; limitations on insurance coverage as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Description of the Business - Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, and in the Company's Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. Although First Majestic 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. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included herein should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date hereof. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 14, 2025) - Hercules Metals Corp. (TSXV: BIG) (OTCQB: BADEF) (FSE: C0X) ("Hercules Metals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced brokered private placement, which was fully subscribed and included the exercise in full of the Agents' option, pursuant to which the Company sold 24,644,500 common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Shares") at a price of C$0.70 per Share, for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of C$17,251,150 (the "Offering"). The Offering was conducted on a "best efforts" agency basis, with Canaccord Genuity Corp. ("Canaccord Genuity") and BMO Capital Markets (collectively with Canaccord Genuity, the "Co-Lead Agents"), as co-lead agents and co-lead bookrunners, and First Nations Financial Markets Limited Partnership (collectively with the Co-Lead Agents, the "Agents"). The Shares were offered for sale by way of private placement pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under section 5A.2 of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions, as modified by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 - Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption") in each of the Provinces of Canada (other than the Province of Quebec), and in the United States pursuant to exemptions from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act, and in certain other jurisdictions outside of Canada and the United States pursuant to available prospectus or registration exemptions in accordance with applicable laws. The Shares issued under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a statutory hold period pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws (except to the extent that the TSX Venture Exchange's four-month hold period applies). In consideration for their services, the Agents received a cash commission (the "Agents' Commission") equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering, other than from the sale to certain purchasers on a "president's list" for which a 3.0% Agents' Commission was paid to the Agents. A director of the Company participated in the Offering. The participation of the Company's director in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). This transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the securities to be distributed nor the consideration to be received for the securities issued to such related party under the Offering will exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company's director subscribed for 71,400 Shares for aggregate gross proceeds of C$49,980. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering for exploration and development of its 100% owned Hercules property in western Idaho (the "Hercules Property"), and for general working capital purposes. There is an offering document relating to the Offering and the use by the Company of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and at https://www.herculesmetals.com/. Final acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange of the Offering is subject to the completion of customary post-closing filings. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in the United States. The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements is available. About Hercules Metals Corp. Hercules Metals Corp. (TSXV: BIG) (OTCQB: BADEF) (FSE: C0X) is an exploration company focused on developing America's newest porphyry copper district, in Idaho. The 100% owned Hercules Property located northwest of Cambridge, hosts the newly discovered Leviathan porphyry copper system, one of the most important new discoveries in the region to date. The Company is well positioned for growth through continued drilling, supported by a strategic investment from Barrick Mining Corporation. With the potential for significant scale, the Company's management and board of directors aims to build on its proven track record which includes the discovery and development of numerous precious metals projects worldwide. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains certain information that may be deemed "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking information contained in this news release may include, without limitation, statements regarding the proposed use of proceeds of the Offering, the final acceptance of the Offering by the TSX Venture Exchange, and the execution of future exploration programs on the Hercules Property. Although the Company believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by its nature, forward-looking information involves assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, level of activity, 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 information. Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the timing of such approvals; that the Company maintains good relationships with the communities in which it operates or proposes to operate; future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; the mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of the Company to implement its business strategies; competition; the risk that any of the assumptions prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work; risks associated with the interpretation of data; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; as well as other assumptions risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company, including as set forth in the Company's public disclosure documents filed on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF HERCULES METALS AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE HERCULES METALS MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE 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. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Vancouver, British Columbia, August 14, 2025 - TheNewswire: Headwater Gold Inc. (CSE: HWG) (OTCQB: HWAUF) (the "Company" or "Headwater") is pleased to announce that it proposes to undertake a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") to raise gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000 through the sale of up to 3,333,333 units (each, a Unit) of the Company at a price of $0.30 per Unit. Highlights: Strategic lead investments from existing shareholders Rick Rule and Jeff Phillips. One-year hold period on Shares underlying the Units and acceleration trigger for the Warrants. Proceeds will be used to support ongoing project generation, exploration at the Companys 100% owned gold projects in the Western United States and general working capital. Caleb Stroup, President and CEO of the Company, states: We are very pleased to announce strategic investments in Headwater Gold by Rick Rule and Jeff Phillips, two highly respected figures in the natural resource investment community. Their participation represents a strong vote of confidence in our team, corporate structure, and overall business strategy. This financing will provide us with additional capital to accelerate our ongoing generative activities in the Western US and continue executing our proven model in one of the world's premier mining jurisdictions. Leading natural resource investor Rick Rule commented: The prospect generator model has served me extremely well over the years, and I believe Headwater Gold is executing this model with financial discipline and technical excellence. I am fortunate to be a shareholder and look forward to hosting the Company at the 2026 Rick Rule Symposium in Boca Raton, Florida. Each Unit consists of one common share (each, a Share) and one non-transferable share purchase warrant (each, a Warrant) exercisable into one further Share at a price of $0.50 for a period of 36 months. The Shares will be subject to a one (1) year hold period from the closing date and such other restrictions as may be required by applicable securities laws and stock exchange rules. Fifteen (15) months after the closing date, the Company will have the right to accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants (the "Acceleration") if the weighted average closing price of the Company's common shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the CSE) equals or exceeds C$0.75 (the "Acceleration Price") for 20 consecutive trading days (the "Acceleration Event"). Upon the occurrence of the Acceleration Event, the expiry date of the Warrants will then be 30 days from the date of issue of a news release announcing the Acceleration. The proceeds from the Offering will be used to support ongoing project generation, exploration at the Companys 100% owned gold projects in the Western United States, and general working capital. Finders fees may be paid in connection with the Offering in accordance with the policies of the CSE. The Offering is subject to the acceptance of the CSE. Insiders of the Company may acquire securities under the Offering, which will be considered a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 (MI 61-101). Such participation is expected to be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101. The offered securities have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, any person in the United States or any "U.S person", as such term is defined in Regulation S under the Securities Act, absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. Offers and sales in the United States will be limited to institutional accredited investors and qualified institutional buyers. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About Headwater Gold Headwater Gold Inc. (CSE: HWG, OTCQB: HWAUF) is a technically-driven mineral exploration company focused on exploring for and discovering high-grade precious metal deposits in the Western USA. Headwater is actively exploring one of the worlds most well-endowed, mining-friendly jurisdictions, with a goal of making world-class precious metal discoveries. The Company has a large portfolio of epithermal vein exploration projects and a technical team with diverse experience in capital markets and major mining companies. Headwater is systematically drill-testing several projects in Nevada and has strategic earn-in agreements with Newmont Corporation on its Spring Peak and Lodestar projects. In August 2022 and September 2024, Newmont and Centerra Gold Inc. acquired strategic equity interests in the Company, further strengthening Headwaters exploration capabilities. Headwater is part of the NewQuest Capital Group which is a discovery-driven investment enterprise that builds value through the incubation and financing of mineral projects and companies. Further information about NewQuest can be found on the company website at www.nqcapitalgroup.com. For more information about Headwater, please visit the Company's website at www.headwatergold.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Caleb Stroup President and CEO +1 (775) 409-3197 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. For further information, please contact: Brennan Zerb Investor Relations Manager +1 (778) 867-5016 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, forward-looking statements). All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Offering, the use of proceeds from the Offering, the named participants in the Offering, other future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events may vary from those anticipated in such statements. Important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's plans or expectations include failure to obtain CSE acceptance of the Offering, inability to use of proceeds from the Offering as expected, failure to raise sufficient funds on the proposed terms or at all, and risks associated with mineral exploration, including the risk that actual results and timing of exploration and development will be different from those expected by management. The forward-looking statements in this news release were developed based on the assumptions and expectations of management, including that CSE acceptance for the Offering will be obtained, the Company will be able to use the proceeds from the Offering as anticipated, required fundraising will be completed, as well as the other assumptions disclosed in this news release and that the risks described above will not materialize. 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. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements, except as otherwise required by law. NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS. Rare Earth Element Anomalies Discovered at Burntwood Project, Highlighting Potential for Future Exploration CALGARY, Alberta, Aug. 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Integral Metals Corp. (CSE: INTG | OTC: ITGLF | FSE: ZK9) (the Company or Integral) is pleased to report highly encouraging results from the 2024 soil geochemistry program completed at its Burntwood Project in Manitoba. At Burntwood, the Company collected 867 soil geochemical samples across the Burntwood Syenite-Carbonatite Complex (the Complex) to evaluate rare earth element (REE) fertility and identify new zones for follow-up. Several anomalies were dominated by light (LREE) and heavy (HREE) rare earth elements, as well as associated pathfinders such as phosphorous pentoxide (as P 2 O 5 ), strontium (Sr), and barium (Ba). Figures 1 to 6 present maps of total rare earth elements (TREEs), LREEs, HREEs, P 2 O 5 , Sr, and Ba. One soil sample, BT24-MSJ11, returned over 10,000 ppm TREE, which included 2,870 ppm neodymium (Nd), 652 ppm praseodymium (Pr), and 358 ppm samarium (Sm), alongside 210 ppm gadolinium (Gd), 113 ppm dysprosium (Dy), and 4 ppm terbium (Tb). Pathfinder values included 18.7% P 2 O 5 , 4,450 ppm Sr, and 1,050 ppm Ba. These values significantly exceeded the 95th percentile thresholds for each element and represent many of the strongest geochemical signatures encountered in the survey. Several other samples presented similarly elevated values, and which appear to cluster within the central portion of the Complex, correlating with the presence of rock geochemical anomalies previously identified (see News Release on May 22, 2025). The anomalous geochemical zone spans several hundred meters, and may reflect indications of a near-surface geochemical footprint of REE-bearing carbonatite or syenite phases. The spatial coherence and intensity of these anomalies, along with supporting pathfinder enrichment, continue, in the Companys view to make this a compelling target for further exploration. Integral Metals will provide further updates as additional datasets become available from the 2024 survey program. Paul Sparkes, CEO of Integral Metals, stated, "We are excited by these results from the 2024 soil geochemistry program at Burntwood, which have revealed encouraging rare earth element anomalies. The elevated values, particularly in neodymium, praseodymium, and samarium, underscore the strong potential of the Burntwood Syenite-Carbonatite Complex as a promising exploration target. These findings will guide our next steps as we continue to evaluate this exciting opportunity." Figure 1. Distribution of TREE (Total Rare Earth Elements) concentrations in soil samples from the Burntwood project area. Figure 2. Distribution of LREE (Light Rare Earth Elements) concentrations in soils across the Burntwood project. Figure 3. Distribution of HREE (Heavy Rare Earth Elements; including yttrium) concentrations in soil samples at the Burntwood project. Figure 4. Distribution of phosphorous pentoxide (PO) concentrations in soil samples from the Burntwood project area. Figure 5. Distribution of strontium (Sr) concentrations in soil across the Burntwood project. Figure 6. Distribution of barium (Ba) concentrations in soil samples from the Burntwood project area. Qualified Person The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed, verified, and approved by Jared Suchan, Ph.D., P.Geo., VP of Exploration at the Company, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. For a discussion of the Companys QA/QC and data verification procedures and processes, please see the technical report entitled, Technical Report on the KAP Property, Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories, Canada, a copy of which may be obtained under the Companys profile at www.sedarplus.ca. On Behalf of the Board Directors Paul Sparkes Chief Executive Officer 825-414-3163 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ABOUT INTEGRAL METALS CORP. Integral is an exploration stage company, engaged in the business of mineral exploration for critical minerals, including gallium, germanium, and rare earth elements, with the goal of contributing to the development of a domestic supply chain for these minerals. Integral holds properties in mining-friendly jurisdictions in Canada and the United States of America, including the Northwest Territories, Manitoba and Montana, where it has received regulatory support for its exploration efforts. Forward-Looking Information Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words could, intend, expect, believe, will, projected, estimated and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Companys current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the Companys future plans and prospects, including with respect to exploration efforts and plans.. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information, including, in respect of the forward-looking information included in this press release, assumptions regarding the future plans and strategies of the Company, including its ability to complete the planned drilling program as intended. Although forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions of the Companys management, there can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among other things, the risk that the Company may be unable to complete the further explorationas planned, and that the Companys business prospects and priorities may change, whether as a result of unexpected events, general market and economic conditions or as a result of the Companys future exploration efforts, and that any such change may result in a re-deployment of the Companys resources and efforts in a manner divergent from the Companys current business plan or strategy. 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. VANCOUVER, B.C. (August 14, 2025) TheNewswire - REV Exploration Corp. (REV or the Company) (TSXV: REVX) is pleased to announce that further to its news release August 1, 2025, the Company has closed its non-brokered private placement financing (the "LIFE Offering") of 1,000,000 common shares (the "Life Offering Common Shares") at C$0.20 per Common Share for total gross proceeds of C$200,000. The Company has also closed its concurrent private placement financing (the "Private Placement") of 5,000,000 Units (the "Units") at C$0.20 per Unit for total gross proceeds of C$1,000,000. Each Unit of the Private Placement comprised one share and one-half of a share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Full Warrant entitles the holder thereof to acquire one additional share (a Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.35 per non-LIFE Warrant Share for a period of 24 months from the closing date of the Private Placement. Mr. Jordan Potts, REV Exploration CEO, commented: We welcome strategic new investors into the Company as we lay the foundation for a robust second half of 2025. The LIFE Offering Common Shares purchased under the LIFE Oering were issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions, and will not be subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Private Placement Shares and Warrants (and Warrant Shares, if applicable) will be subject to a statutory hold period of 4 months and one day from the date of issuance pursuant to applicable securities laws. The proceeds from the sale will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes, including as more specifically described in the Offering Document. Certain Company insiders participated in the Unit Offering. The participation by insiders in the Offering constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is relying on the exemptions from the 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 common shares purchased by insiders, nor the consideration for the Units paid by such insiders, exceeded 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the Offering, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances as the details of the participation by insiders of the Company were not settled until shortly prior to closing the Offerings and the Company wished to complete the Offering in an expeditious manner. The securities issued pursuant to the Offerings have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. About REV Exploration Corp. REV is a mineral exploration company that owns a suite of gold and battery metal properties in Quebec highlighted by JMW and Maxwell in the Chapais-Chibougamau area, while the Company also has strong exposure to the Natural Hydrogen sector in Alberta and Saskatchewan. REV has an option to acquire 100% of a series of PNG leases along the Alberta-Montana border, including the drill-ready Aden Dome, while it also has a significant equity position in MAX Power Mining Corp. which owns Canadas largest permitted land package for Natural Hydrogen in Saskatchewan. For further information on the Company, readers are referred to the Companys website at www.REVexploration.com and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. REV Exploration Corp. Suite 410 325 Howe Street, B.C. V6C 1Z7 Tel: 604-682-7970 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. REVexploration.com Jordan Potts Chief Executive Officer and Director For further information, please contact: Chad Levesque Investor Relations 1-306-981-4753 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Reader Advisory & Forward-Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. 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". All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, the completion of the Agreement and the presence of naturally occurring hydrogen on the Aden Dome. Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release, including, but not limited to the assumption that all conditions to completion of the acquisition of the Aden Dome will be satisfied, including TSX Venture Exchange approval. REV Exploration Corp. disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation. Company also announces positive results from its 3D geological model at Obalski, revealing high-potential copper-gold targets MONTREAL / Aug 14, 2025 / Business Wire / TOMAGOLD CORPORATION (TSXV: LOT; OTCPK: TOGOF) (TomaGold or the Company) is pleased to announce the beginning of its drilling program on its Chibougamau projects in Quebec. As outlined in its June 20, 2025 press release, the Company has initiated a 53-hole exploration drilling program targeting its key projects, namely Obalski, Berrigan Mine, Radar, David, and Dufault, with the goal of uncovering new gold-copper mineralization on strategically selected, well-defined targets. Results from 3D Geological and Structural Interpretation on Obalski TomaGold is also pleased to announce the results of its most recent 3D geological and structural interpretation of the Obalski project (the Project), located two kilometres south of Chibougamau, Quebec, within the mineral-rich Abitibi Greenstone Belt. This comprehensive modeling effort led to the identification of multiple copper-gold (Cu-Au) mineralized zones controlled by well-defined shear systems, offering substantial upside for future exploration and drilling. This work integrates historical drilling data, geophysical surveys (resistivity and metal factor), and structural interpretation, resulting in a refined geological framework for the Project that confirms several high probability yet untested mineralized targets. TomaGolds CEO David Grondin stated: This model provides us with a far more detailed and accurate picture of the lithological, structural, and mineralization architecture at Obalski. It confirms historical mineralization trends and identifies a series of compelling, high-confidence exploration targets observed elsewhere in the Chibougamau Mining Camp, based on recent work by the TomaGold technical team. We now have a clear roadmap to expand mineralized zones with precision-guided exploration using surface bedrock and soil sampling, outcrop stripping and sampling, and SONIC and diamond drilling. Technical Highlights and Key Conclusions The updated geological model successfully reconciles decades of reportedly dissimilar and inconsistent datasets into a unified and standardized 2D and 3D framework of lithologies, structures, mineralization, geochemistry, and assay results. This integration significantly improves confidence in target definition and enhances geological continuity across the Project. Key Findings: 1. Identification of Two Major Shear Systems The interpretation confirms the presence of two dominant shear systems: A N110 (SE-NW) trending shear structure associated with copper-gold mineralization in quartz veins and chlorite-carbonate altered zones. associated with copper-gold mineralization in quartz veins and chlorite-carbonate altered zones. A younger 020 (NE-SW) trending shear that offsets the former structure and appears to host predominantly gold mineralization. The intersection of these two systems creates structurally favorable zones with increased permeability, representing high-priority targets for hydrothermal fluid migration and metal deposition. This structural configuration is clearly illustrated in Figure 1. 2. Spatial Association Between Mineralization and Intrusive Contacts Numerical models of copper assays revealed that Cu enrichment is concentrated along the margins of intrusive unitsparticularly dioritic and granitic contacts. These observations support a genetic link between magmatic activity and mineralization. The highest assay clusters occur near structurally disrupted intrusive contacts. This correlation is well depicted in Figures 2 and 3. 3. Well-Defined Mineralized Zone and Orientation The integrated model delineates a mineralized zone trending north-northeast with a moderate plunge of approximately 32 toward the east. This geometry aligns with regional shear zones and provides a clear vector for down-plunge drilling extensions, shown in Figure 4. 4. Predictive Mineralization Modelling Validates Untested High-Potential Zones The 3D distance-based predictive model combines geophysics, lithology, and geochemistry to estimate the probability of mineralization. The zones with the highest potential for mineralization (shown in purple and dark blue shells in Figure 5 below) are concentrated along structural intersections and lithological boundaries between pillowed volcanics and intrusive rocks. Exploration Upside and Targeting Strategy The integration of geological, structural, and assay data defines multiple high-priority exploration targets, which are summarized as follows: Structural intersections of the N110 (SE-NW) and NE-SW trending shears offer the greatest potential for mineralized shoots. offer the greatest potential for mineralized shoots. Intrusive-volcanic contacts (especially where sheared) consistently correlate with higher copper and gold grades. (especially where sheared) consistently correlate with higher copper and gold grades. Down-plunge extensions along the 32 plunge trend remain open and under-drilled. along the 32 plunge trend remain open and under-drilled. The southeastern area of the Project , where folding and intrusive complexity are observed (potential dioritic trap), presents a newly recognized exploration opportunity. , where folding and intrusive complexity are observed (potential dioritic trap), presents a newly recognized exploration opportunity. Parallel, underexplored structures may host additional mineralized lenses. This targeting strategy is supported by both structural logic and assay correlations, enhancing drill efficiency and reducing exploration risk. Recommendations and Next Steps To optimize future exploration success, the report recommends the following: Increasing the assay dataset through systematic sampling of drill holes, particularly across lithological and structural contacts. through systematic sampling of drill holes, particularly across lithological and structural contacts. Standardizing core logging protocols , with a focus on alteration, structure, and geochemical pathfinder elements. , with a focus on alteration, structure, and geochemical pathfinder elements. Re-logging historic cores with updated multi-element and trace element geochemistry (e.g., pXRF and spectral analysis). with updated multi-element and trace element geochemistry (e.g., pXRF and spectral analysis). Expanding geophysical coverage , including high-resolution passive and active seismic surveys (in collaboration with the Smart Exploration Centre ). , including high-resolution passive and active seismic surveys (in collaboration with the ). Widening the geochemical scope beyond Au and Cu to include Ag, Zn, Bi, Te, and other pathfinder elements. These recommendations aim to improve the definition and confidence in currently modelled mineralized zones while identifying new areas of potential. The technical content of this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jean Lafleur, P.Geo., the Companys Vice President of Exploration and a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101. About TomaGold TomaGold Corp. (TSXV: LOT, OTCPK: TOGOF) is a Canadian junior mining company focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of high-potential precious and base metal projects, with a primary focus on gold and copper in Quebec and Ontario. The Companys core assets are located in the Chibougamau Mining Camp in northern Quebec, where it owns the Obalski gold-copper-silver project and holds options to acquire 12 additional properties, including the Berrigan Mine, Radar, David, and Dufault projects. TomaGold also holds a 24.5% joint venture interest in the Baird gold property near the Red Lake Mining Camp in Ontario. In addition, the Company has lithium and rare earth element (REE) projects in the James Bay region, strategically positioned near significant recent discoveries. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. All statements in this news 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 the potential results of exploration and drilling activities, 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 managements beliefs, estimates, opinions, or other factors should change. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - December 18, 2019) - Pure Nickel Inc. (TSXV: NIC) (the "Company" or "Pure Nickel") is pleased to announce that it has changed its name from "Pure Nickel Inc." to " Galleon Gold Corp. " pursuant to the provisions of the Canada Business Corporations Act . The name... Read More Vancouver, Canada In 2025, dual nationality has evolved from a symbolic sign of global connectivity into a highly strategic legal safeguard against arbitrary detention, politically motivated deportations, and unexpected loss of travel rights. In an era of rapid geopolitical shifts, aggressive immigration enforcement, and expanded cross-border data sharing, Amicus International Consulting, a global leader in legal identity transformation and multi-jurisdictional structuring, underscores that a second citizenship is not merely a lifestyle advantage; it is a calculated tool for personal safety, operational continuity, and diplomatic protection. For executives operating in emerging markets, journalists reporting in restrictive media environments, activists targeted by authoritarian regimes, and private citizens caught in sudden political upheavals, dual nationality can serve as the deciding factor between a swift resolution and a prolonged, high-risk crisis. When structured legally and used responsibly, a second citizenship can provide access to diplomatic channels, alternative safe havens, and immediate travel options when the primary nationality becomes a liability. The Modern Legal and Political Context International travel security today operates within an interconnected system of databases, surveillance technologies, and diplomatic relationships. Governments now share passenger manifests, visa histories, biometric identifiers, and intelligence notes through frameworks such as: Five Eyes Alliance (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) for intelligence cooperation. (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) for intelligence cooperation. Schengen Information System for Europe-wide border and law enforcement alerts. for Europe-wide border and law enforcement alerts. INTERPOLs I-24/7 Network for cross-border police communication. for cross-border police communication. Regional Immigration Databases in Africa, Asia, and Latin America linking entry and exit data. While these agreements are designed for security, they also mean that a travelers primary nationality can directly influence whether they are allowed entry, subjected to enhanced screening, or detained for questioning. Legal Foundations of Dual Nationality Dual nationality refers to the lawful recognition by two sovereign states that an individual is simultaneously a citizen. However, each country has its laws on how multiple citizenships are acquired, maintained, and declared. Four Legitimate Pathways to a Second Citizenship Citizenship-by-Investment (CBI) Offered by select countries in the Caribbean, Europe, and Oceania, these programs provide fast-track citizenship in exchange for economic contributions, often completed in three to eight months. They are attractive to individuals needing immediate geopolitical flexibility. Naturalization Involves years of lawful residence, integration, and often language proficiency. While slower, ranging from five to ten years, this method is less capital-intensive and builds a strong connection to the host country. Ancestry or Descent-Based Citizenship Countries like Ireland, Italy, and Poland allow descendants of nationals, sometimes spanning several generations, to claim citizenship through documented lineage. This pathway is often overlooked, yet it can be one of the most secure methods. Special Grant or Recognition of Contribution Awarded in rare cases for exceptional economic, cultural, or scientific contributions to a nation. These are often highly discretionary and politically influenced. Amicus International Consulting ensures that each acquisition route aligns with the laws of both the primary and secondary countries, avoiding conflicts such as automatic loss of the original nationality or unintended tax obligations. Why Dual Nationality Reduces Detention Risk The right to consular protection is one of the most tangible advantages of dual nationality. Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, a detained individual has the right to contact their consulate. With two nationalities, this right effectively doublesproviding two potential channels for diplomatic advocacy. Expanded Diplomatic Coverage : If one country lacks an embassy or consulate in a region, the second country can provide immediate representation. : If one country lacks an embassy or consulate in a region, the second country can provide immediate representation. Political Leverage : Some governments are more influential or better connected in certain jurisdictions, increasing the likelihood of negotiation for release. : Some governments are more influential or better connected in certain jurisdictions, increasing the likelihood of negotiation for release. Protection from Arbitrary Revocation: If a primary passport is revoked or suspended due to political disputes, the second citizenship remains valid. Case Study: Investigative Journalist in Hostile Territory A journalist from a country with strained relations in their reporting region was detained on suspicion of violating local media laws. Their second nationality, from a nation with strong diplomatic ties to the host country, enabled consular officials to secure their release within 48 hours, avoiding a potentially prolonged legal battle. Mitigating Deportation Risk Through Dual Nationality Deportation processes are often swift for individuals with a second citizenship, as the receiving country is guaranteed to accept them without additional immigration procedures. This can be critical in: Immigration Crackdowns : Where residents are targeted for rapid removal. : Where residents are targeted for rapid removal. Political Expulsions : When foreign nationals are ordered to leave during diplomatic disputes. : When foreign nationals are ordered to leave during diplomatic disputes. Sudden Legal Changes: Such as revoked visas or canceled work permits. Case Study: Corporate Executive Caught in Investment Policy Shift An international executive in the mining sector was ordered to leave a host country after sudden legal changes restricted foreign ownership. Their second passport provided immediate access to a neighboring jurisdiction where their company maintained operations, avoiding costly interruptions. The Strategic Management of Dual Nationality Owning two passports does not automatically guarantee safety. How and when each nationality is used is critical: Jurisdictional Awareness : Some countries require full disclosure of all citizenships upon entry. Non-disclosure can lead to penalties. : Some countries require full disclosure of all citizenships upon entry. Non-disclosure can lead to penalties. Travel Profile Management : Alternating passports for specific regions can reduce unnecessary attention from border authorities. : Alternating passports for specific regions can reduce unnecessary attention from border authorities. Consular Strategy: Understanding which consulate to contact in specific crises can maximize the chances of favorable intervention. Avoiding Legal Pitfalls Dual nationality must be handled in compliance with both countries laws to avoid: Unlawful Evasion : Using a second passport to avoid legal obligations, such as criminal proceedings or debts. : Using a second passport to avoid legal obligations, such as criminal proceedings or debts. Tax Conflicts : Being subject to taxation in both countries without proper planning. : Being subject to taxation in both countries without proper planning. Loss of Citizenship: Some nations automatically revoke citizenship if another is acquired without permission. Case Study: Humanitarian Worker Evacuated from Conflict Zone When civil unrest broke out in a Central African nation, a humanitarian worker used their second citizenship to cross into a neighboring country that barred entry to holders of their primary nationality. This allowed them to evacuate safely and continue their work from a more stable location. The Role of Dual Citizenship in Global Crisis Management Amicus International Consulting incorporates dual nationality into broader emergency planning that includes: Alternative residence permits in stable jurisdictions. Emergency travel documentation and notarized copies of citizenship proof. Secure banking arrangements across multiple countries. Coordination with international legal counsel for detention or deportation cases. Case Study: multinational Family Security Framework A family with business, academic, and personal ties across three continents secured dual citizenship for all members through ancestry claims and CBI programs. When political instability disrupted travel in one region, they relocated within 72 hours using alternative passports, preserving business continuity and educational commitments. Geopolitical Dynamics That Influence Risk The degree of protection a second nationality offers depends on the current diplomatic climate: Allied Nations : Strong protection and favorable treatment. : Strong protection and favorable treatment. Neutral States : Often more effective in politically sensitive regions where both primary and host countries have tensions. : Often more effective in politically sensitive regions where both primary and host countries have tensions. Sanctioned States: Second citizenship becomes vital if the primary nationality is subject to sanctions that restrict travel or financial access. Historical Perspective Cold War Era : Dual nationality was rare and sometimes considered suspicious. : Dual nationality was rare and sometimes considered suspicious. Post-1990s Globalization : Increased acceptance, particularly for business and cultural exchange. : Increased acceptance, particularly for business and cultural exchange. Post-9/11 Era : Heightened security measures made second citizenship an asset for navigating stricter border controls. : Heightened security measures made second citizenship an asset for navigating stricter border controls. 2020s: As political polarization increases, multiple nationalities are becoming core elements of personal risk management. Emerging Threats to Travel Freedom Biometric Identity Consolidation : Even with two passports, shared biometric markers link identities in government systems. : Even with two passports, shared biometric markers link identities in government systems. Predictive Risk Algorithms : AI-driven traveler risk scoring can override traditional passport-based risk assessments. : AI-driven traveler risk scoring can override traditional passport-based risk assessments. Data-Sharing Treaties: Broader and faster sharing of detention, deportation, and travel data across blocs. Counterstrategies for Legal and Ethical Risk Management Amicus advises clients to: Maintain separate, up-to-date travel histories for each nationality. Understand the diplomatic strengths of both countries in each travel region. Use secure communications when traveling in high-surveillance jurisdictions. Keep all uses of dual nationality transparent where legally required. Conclusion Dual nationality, when legally acquired and strategically deployed, is a powerful instrument for reducing the risk of detention and deportation. It offers expanded diplomatic protection, immediate relocation options, and resilience against sudden political or legal changes. Amicus International Consulting continues to assist clients worldwide in structuring dual citizenship solutions that balance discretion, compliance, and adaptability ensuring mobility and safety in an increasingly uncertain global environment. Contact Information Phone: +1 (604) 200-5402 Email: [email protected] Website: www.amicusint.ca Vancouver, Canada. In an increasingly interconnected yet unpredictable world, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), global entrepreneurs, and internationally mobile families are exploring a new form of wealth protection that goes far beyond traditional financial instruments. This approach, known as building a multi-citizenship portfolio, involves holding two or more legal citizenships to diversify personal, professional, and geopolitical risk. Amicus International Consulting, a global leader in legal identity transformation and multi-jurisdictional structuring, outlines how multi-citizenship portfolios serve not only as financial tools but as comprehensive strategies for mobility, security, and personal sovereignty. A multi-citizenship portfolio is more than a travel convenience. While additional passports often bring increased visa-free travel options, their value extends into asset diversification, business expansion, and risk mitigation in areas such as political stability, personal safety, and access to healthcare. Multiple citizenships reduce dependency on a single jurisdiction. In an era of rapidly shifting policies, from capital controls to immigration restrictions, relying solely on one citizenship can leave individuals vulnerable to sudden changes in law or geopolitical climate. Case Study: Investor Preserving Capital Mobility A European investor, concerned about potential capital movement restrictions in their primary country, obtained citizenship in a Caribbean nation. When new regulations limited outbound transfers for certain transactions, the investor lawfully used their alternate nationality to move funds into foreign markets without delay. This diversification mirrors financial portfolio theory. Just as investors spread capital across asset classes to manage risk, a multi-citizenship portfolio spreads personal rights and protections across jurisdictions, reducing the impact of policy volatility in any one country. Second citizenships can be acquired through multiple lawful pathways. These include ancestry claims, naturalization after residency, and citizenship-by-investment programs. Each method has its own legal, financial, and time-based requirements, making tailored planning essential. Case Study: Entrepreneur Leveraging Ancestral Citizenship A Canadian entrepreneur successfully applied for citizenship in Ireland through proof of Irish grandparents. This allowed them to operate freely within the EU, securing contracts that would have been more difficult to obtain under their Canadian passport alone. Multi-citizenship portfolios also open strategic business opportunities. Certain jurisdictions grant preferential access to trade agreements, tenders, or corporate structures for their citizens. Case Study: Shipping Firm Securing International Contracts A logistics executive holding Southeast Asian and EU citizenship used their EU nationality to bid on European port operation contracts while leveraging their Southeast Asian citizenship to negotiate favorable shipping lanes in the Pacific. The security benefits are equally significant. In unstable political environments, a second or third citizenship provides a lawful exit route and the right to settle in safer locations. Case Study: Humanitarian Director Ensuring Operational Continuity A humanitarian NGO leader with Middle Eastern and Canadian citizenship was able to evacuate staff and family to Canada during a regional conflict, ensuring safety while continuing their organizations mission remotely. Residency rights are often bundled into multi-citizenship strategies. Some individuals hold long-term residencies in countries where they have not sought citizenship, further enhancing mobility and access to services. Case Study: Tech Investor Combining Residency and Citizenship A U.S. tech investor acquired Caribbean citizenship and EU residency. This allowed them to work from Europe, invest in Caribbean-based fintech ventures, and maintain U.S. connections all under a compliant legal structure. Political neutrality is a valuable asset in multi-citizenship planning. Citizens of certain small, neutral states often enjoy broader acceptance in regions where major powers face restrictions or heightened scrutiny. Case Study: Consultant Navigating Restricted Regions A business consultant with Caribbean citizenship gained entry into markets that were closed to their primary nationality due to diplomatic tensions, allowing them to complete projects without legal or operational disruption. Healthcare access is another non-financial driver. Citizenship or residency in countries with advanced medical systems can ensure timely and quality care, especially in emergencies. Case Study: Family Gaining Dual Healthcare Access A family with South African and Australian citizenship maintained full access to medical systems in both countries, ensuring continuity of care for a child with a rare condition. Educational opportunities often expand with multi-citizenship. Citizenship in certain jurisdictions grants access to subsidized or priority education programs, both domestically and in partner countries. Case Study: Student Accessing EU Tuition Benefits A dual citizen of Brazil and Portugal attended a top European university at significantly reduced tuition rates, a benefit unavailable under their Brazilian citizenship alone. Tax optimization is frequently cited, but must be approached with precision. While certain citizenship-residency combinations can reduce overall tax exposure, they must comply with all reporting and payment obligations under each relevant jurisdiction. Case Study: Investor Avoiding Double Taxation Legally A dual citizen of Malta and Canada used existing tax treaties to ensure that income from European properties was taxed only once, while fully disclosing earnings to both tax authorities. Regional Comparisons: Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific Europe offers mobility and market integration. EU citizenship grants the right to live and work in 27 member states and visa-free travel to over 180 countries. Pathways include ancestry-based applications, naturalization, and select investment programs. Case Study: Startup Founder Choosing Malta A South African entrepreneur obtained Maltese citizenship through investment, allowing unrestricted EU market access for their tech company. The Caribbean specializes in speed and simplicity. Countries such as Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Antigua and Barbuda offer citizenship-by-investment programs that can be completed in months, often without physical residency requirements. Case Study: Trader Streamlining Banking Relationships A commodities trader used their Saint Kitts passport to open banking accounts in Latin America and Asia without the extended due diligence required for their primary nationality. Asia-Pacific offers strategic regional positioning. While fewer countries offer citizenship-by-investment, residency programs in places like Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand can eventually lead to naturalization and are valuable in multi-citizenship planning. Case Study: Executive Establishing Regional HQ in Singapore A multinational executive used Singapore permanent residency as a base for managing Asia-Pacific operations, later securing Australian citizenship to add regional mobility. Compliance Scenarios in Multi-Citizenship Portfolios Tax residency management is critical. Holding multiple citizenships without careful planning can result in dual tax obligations. Double taxation treaties and explicit residency declarations help mitigate this risk. Asset structuring must align with ownership laws. Some countries restrict property or business ownership to citizens or residents, influencing which citizenship is used for registration. Immigration benefits vary across jurisdictions. Family reunification policies differ, meaning dependents may not automatically gain the same rights across all held citizenships. Case Study: Consultant Avoiding Visa Gaps for Dependents A consultant ensured that both citizenships included spousal and dependent rights, preventing family separation during international assignments. The future of multi-citizenship portfolios will be shaped by digital governance. As biometric identification systems, global travel databases, and real-time information sharing become more prevalent, individuals will need to manage how each citizenship interacts with these systems. Case Study: Strategist Managing Digital Identity Layers A cybersecurity strategist used one citizenship exclusively for sensitive business travel and another for leisure, limiting cross-linkage of travel records across databases. Conclusion Multi-citizenship portfolios are a wealth strategy that extends beyond finance into mobility, personal security, healthcare, education, and operational resilience. When structured lawfully, they offer individuals the flexibility to adapt to an unpredictable global environment while maintaining full compliance with all legal obligations. Amicus International Consulting designs bespoke multi-citizenship portfolios that balance financial goals with broader life priorities, ensuring that clients are protected, mobile, and strategically positioned for the future. Contact Information Phone: +1 (604) 200-5402 Email: [email protected] Website: www.amicusint.ca Long before its airing, the highly anticipated tvN weekend drama "Bon Appetit, Your Majesty" is already making waves, with its recently released main trailer creating even more anticipation among viewers. After the end of "Law and the City," which wrapped up with a record high rating of 7.7%, "Bon Appetit, Your Majesty" arrives on August 23. The series is directed by Jang Tae Yoo, written by fGRD, and produced by Studio Dragon, Filmgrida, and Jung Universe. It will explore the lives of tyrant King Lee Heon (Lee Chae Min) and palace cook Yeon Ji Young (YoonA) living in a tumultuous royal court. The August 12 trailer begins with Yeon Ji Young, a budding Michelin 3-star chef, defeating a French cooking competition only to be whisked away into a royal palace. She's chased by an arrow-toting king and branded as a criminal before finally declaring her occupation to Lee Heon, who at first thinks she's a ghost. Her contemporary cuisine, such as steak and pasta, slowly wins him over, paving the way for laughs and romance. Fiction occurs when Kang Mok Joo (Kang Han Na), the king's concubine, sees Ji Young as a threat. Her jealousy and suspicions grow as Ji Young continues to play and tease the king, building to high-tension palace intrigue scenes. Netizens were also flattered with the trailer, with comments that included, "YoonA is so beautiful," "The cast combination is already so fun," and "Perfect casting for their roles young tyrant and older chef pairing is going to be great."' YoonA is back on the small screen playing Yeon Ji Young, a stubborn chef involved in a hilarious but perilous time-slip survival narrative. Her work in "Exit," the "Confidential Assignment" franchise, and "King the Land" earns her fame, and she prepped three months with an expert chef to get ready for the character, learning how to cook with techniques such as flambe. Lee Chae Min, in his first royal role, portrays Lee Heon, a sharp-tongued ruler with an extraordinary palate and deep distrust of others. The drama marks a darker turn for the actor, known for youth romance roles. "Bon Appetit, Your Majesty" premieres August 23 at 9:10 p.m. KST. Having once been one of South Korea's best-known and most popular actresses and a chief figure of the Hallyu Wave, Song Hye-kyo's untarnished reputation fell apart in 2014 when she became embroiled in a high-profile tax evasion scandal. On August 19, 2014, the National Tax Service announced that Song had underreported her private income from 2009 to 2011, avoiding taxes worth 2.5 billion won. The period of underpayment was three consecutive years during which the actress went about her work and public events without revealing the issue. Her administration at first dismissed any personal fault, placing the blame on accounting missteps by a tax agent who had authority to deal with her finances. Public indignation gathered strength, however, with her being faulted for evading responsibility and not overseeing her own affairs. Even though Song paid the delinquent taxes on time, the backlash was intense and immediate. With pressure piling up, she went to a press conference, bowing deeply in apology to the country and vowing never to do it again. The scandal is the worst controversy in her career, leading to boycotts and petitions for her ouster from show business. Song regained her public image years later, with the turning point coming in 2016 through Descendants of the Sun. Nevertheless, the scandal continues to cast a shadow. Her name reappears often whenever tax scandals pop up anew, and extravagancelike the buying of a 9 billion won luxury villahas recast her in the negative light of netizens who remember her past transgression. Notwithstanding the continued taint, however, Song is still one of Korea's best-known actresses, her career long characterized by both success and scandal. Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - An unexpected moment during Ugandan President Yoweri Musevenis state visit to Egypt has lit up social media, sparking a heated debate and cheeky memes. In a viral video circulating online, the long-serving Ugandan leader and close ally of Kenyan President, William Ruto, is seen politely but firmly declining a drink offered to him at an official event in Cairo. The brief yet noticeable gesture has left netizens speculating wildly about the reason. While Museveni offered no explanation on camera, online theories range from personal preference, health concerns, to fears of possible poisoning. The visit, aimed at strengthening UgandaEgypt relations in trade, security and agriculture, was supposed to be all about diplomacy. But this unscripted moment has completely stolen the spotlight, proving once again that in the age of the internet, the smallest gestures can make the loudest headlines. Watch the video. Ugandan President YOWERI MUSEVENI refuses drink offered during Egypt state visit pic.twitter.com/oOAS1YJ82m DAILY POST (@dailypost_ke) August 14, 2025 The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - A little-known Kisii beauty, Judy Kwamboka, is turning heads online with her irresistible curves. A viral video of her confidently rocking a figure-hugging outfit has set social media ablaze, leaving many men utterly distracted. In the clip, Judy strolls with effortless poise, proudly flaunting her stunning nyash and the gents are clearly captivated. Some fans even credited her curves to Kisii genes, cheekily noting that while some spend fortunes on surgery, Judy is effortlessly serving body goals, naturally. The Kenyan DAILY POST While new solar installations are slowing in other parts of the world, Africa's solar sector is on a strong growth trajectory, dominated by the continent's northern and southern regions. According to a recent analysis by the Africa Solar Industry Association, the continent has just surpassed the symbolic milestone of 20 gigawatt-peak of installed capacity, with another 10 GWp currently under construction a sign of buoyant activity and strong growth ahead. The installed capacity covers solar across utility-scale plants, commercial and industrial systems, mini-grids and solar home systems, underscoring the sector's breadth and diversity. Close to 40,000 different projects are currently at various stages of development. South Africa remains the engine of Africa's solar industry, accounting for approximately half of the continent's installed capacity, the association said. North Africa also contributes greatly to the tally, with Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia rounding out the top four countries hosting the most operational solar capacity. Other Southern African countries, including Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Namibia, are also rolling out significant solar capacities this year. Notably, despite being the most active solar market, South Africa hosts "only" 28 percent of current construction activity. However, together with Algeria, Egypt, Angola and Tunisia, they account for 75 percent of all ongoing solar construction across the continent. In North Africa, the next big push is expected from Algeria, which, after years of inaction, has committed to a whopping 3 gigawatt initiative across 20 projects. These projects are at various stages of construction, with several slated for commissioning before the end of the year. Figures from the association indicate that last year saw a 44 percent increase in new installations, building on the strong momentum of a 22 percent rise recorded in 2023. Utility-scale projects currently under construction account for 70 percent of the total, marking a solid rebound from the post-COVID years when the commercial and industrial segment dominated African solar. A 2025-28 report by the Global Solar Council highlights Africa's vast solar potential, noting the continent holds 60 percent of the world's best solar resources. However, solar power accounts for only 3 percent of Africa's electricity generation. The report also points out that capital costs for solar projects are three to seven times higher in Africa than in developed countries, and the continent only receives 3 percent of global energy investment far below the $200 billion per year needed to meet energy access and climate goals. African countries have set an ambitious target to expand renewable energy capacity from 56 GW in 2022 to 300 GW by 2030. This bold vision is aimed at electrifying millions of homes, driving economic growth, and positioning the continent as a global leader in the fight against climate change. Meanwhile, China has emerged as a pivotal investor in Africa's renewable energy sector, building on the deepening partnership between the two sides. Data from the China Electricity Council, released in June, shows that since the start of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-25), Chinese entities have undertaken around 80 solar photovoltaic, wind power and hydropower projects in 28 African countries, including Nigeria, Zambia, Egypt and Ethiopia. Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - Veteran Kenyan genge star Paul Julius Nunda, famously known as Jua Cali, is trending online and not for his music. The Kiasi hitmakers latest video appearance has sparked a wave of chatter after fans noticed a visibly puffier face and body. Social media users were quick to draw comparisons to Jamaican dancehall legend Vybz Kartel, who has openly battled Graves disease. Some even cheekily nicknamed Jua Cali Kenyas Vybz Kartel. Graves disease, an autoimmune condition, can cause swelling and puffiness, particularly around the eyes, as the immune system attacks surrounding tissues and muscles. While speculation swirls, Jua Cali has yet to comment on the matter. While some of his fans are expressing concern for his health, others have turning the moment into lighthearted online banter. Kenyans concerned over rapper JUA CALIs health over his new look, compare his appearance to VYBZ KARTELs battle with Graves disease pic.twitter.com/hrFaddx6R3 DAILY POST (@dailypost_ke) August 14, 2025 "My name is Steve Muikia a Kenyan innovator who dreamt of transforming our Financial Ecosystem. I used to be a banker at Co-operative Bank from 2010 to 8th January 2015 and one of my roles as Loans Clerk was remitting Money to different accounts and banks had no Pesalink. Coop Bank fired me in Jan 2015 and my last day of service was 8th January 2015. After leaving bank , I formally documented and registered a real-time, interbank money transfer system: the #AllinOneBanking Innovation as well as #AirMoneyVirtualBankTransferSolutionInnovation. I shared it with Central Bank of Kenya (Official), Kenya Bankers Association and PesaLink - all institutions acknowledged receipt in writing as shown in the attached bundle. But what followed was betrayal. The innovation was implemented - as PesaLink - without my knowledge, consent, or Compensation. What I submitted was not a vague "idea." It was a copyrighted innovation, registered and certified by Kenya Copyright Board. Despite everything, I remained hopeful. I sought an amicable resolution through diplomacy. My letters were ignored by the infringing parties. I followed what the law says about seeking legal redress in disputes and went to court in 2019 and in good faith. But the judiciary failed me. After waiting and going through a Painstaking trial court process for 4 years, My case was dismissed on a technicality - the judge said that I used the word idea instead of innovation. That was a blatant lie. She also quoted another reason for dismissal - She said I was an employee when I was creating #Pesalink - this was another lie. I left Co-op Bank Kenya on 8th January 2015 and therefore when the whole drama started ie on 19th May 2015 when I went to CBK I was not a bank employee - nilikuwa raia wa kawaida. Co-op Bank Kenya can confirm this and drop my Certificate of Service showing my last day of service was 8th January 2015 When the innovations were registered at KECOBO again I was not a Cooperative bank employee. We wanted to raise these facts in our appeal but the judge has completely blocked my chances of appealing. My final submissions were filed in February 2023. For over 4 months, no judgment was delivered - this was an incidence of breaking the law. To this day, over two years later, I am still waiting for a written judgment from the Judge and she has totally refused to release Written Judgement over 2 FULL YEARS to facilitate filing of an APPEAL. I raised this with Judicial Service Commission Kenya in 2023, again in 2024 then in 2025 to help me get an appeal rolling, and they responded on 5th March 2025. I am still waiting. My right to appeal was blocked - not by justice, but by deliberate judicial delay. To this day the defendants ie Kenya Bankers Association, CBK and IPSL have never claimed costs and they have nothing legal as proof that the matter was ended conclusively. Why have the defendants ie Kenyan Banks and CBK not claimed the costs that were awarded to them? Is this normal? Isn't this an oddity? To date they haven't claimed a coin from me, this is unlike banks. Why has the Judge sat on the written judgement for over 2 yrs now? Isn't this breaking the law? Meanwhile, banks continue to profit from a platform I created. And Im reduced to hawking serviettes on the streets to survive as shown in the attached video. 1.This is the 7th year of pursuing justice. Is this not an injustice? 2. Why would a High Court Judge obstinately refuse to release Written Judgment for over 2 years? She has effectively crushed my chances of filing an Appeal - isn't this Miscarriage of Justice and Violation of the Constitution. What legal questions flood your mind when the judge awards costs to the defendants and 2 years after there is NO APPEAL but the defendants have never asked even a coin from me or my lawyer? Is that normal? Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - A young womans dream of a romantic date in the city has turned into a nightmare after she was robbed by a man she met on social media. According to the victim, she had been chatting with the suspect online for weeks before agreeing to travel to Nairobi to meet him. But instead of the warm welcome she expected, she was allegedly lured to a hotel around OTC where the man robbed her of her phone before vanishing without a trace. He reportedly stole the phone worth Ksh 18,000 as the victim was washing her hands ready to share a meal and walked out of the hotel. The notorious man uses social media under different names and account profiles to lure ladies, before robbing them. Check out the victims post. The Kenyan DAILY POST Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - Renewed legal scholar and human rights expert, Dr. Duncan Oburu Ojwang, has declined President William Rutos nomination to serve as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). In a communication to the National Assembly on Tuesday, August 12th, Speaker Moses Wetangula said he had received a letter from Dr. Ojwang turning down the appointment, citing personal reasons and a conflict of interest. The nominee had been scheduled to appear before the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs for vetting on Wednesday, August 13th. Following the withdrawal, Wetangula directed the committee to halt any further consideration of the matter and instructed the Clerk of the National Assembly to formally notify the appointing authority. President Ruto had nominated Dr. Ojwang on August 5th, 2025, forwarding his name to Parliament for approval. The position became vacant in January following the death of Roseline Odhiambo Odede. However, the nomination had already faced legal headwinds. On August 6th, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and the Katiba Institute filed a petition in the High Court challenging the appointment. The petitioners argued that the Constitution and the KNCHR Act require gender diversity at the top of the commission, stipulating that the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson must be of different genders. With Vice-Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris being male, they claimed the selection panels recommendation - and the Presidents subsequent nomination of another male-breached the law. The selection process ignored constitutional requirements for gender balance, KHRC said in a statement. The President will now be required to nominate a new candidate for the role. Sweden has shaped its ongoing New Sensor Programme (programmet Sensorsystem Ny) to deal with the capabilities of modern ballistic and cruise missiles, especially taking notes of such threats as the russian Iskander and Kalibr land attack systems. Col. Fredrik Palsson, head of the Information and Intelligence Systems Department at Sweden's Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) has also outlined other priority threats in an interview with Janes. These include stealth technology, unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), and hypersonic weapons. Illustrative photo: newly-made TRML-4D radar for the German Armed Forces / Photo credit: Hensoldt The Swedish military leadership believe that future warfare weapons will become less and less detectable by radars while growing in travel speed and variety of working altitudes. The surveillance systems must be apt at detecting threats even in contested electronic space, where many factors interfere including countermeasures deployed by the enemy. Defense Express adds that the Swedish official essentially names all existing threats, from relatively simple UAVs to high-end hypersonic weapons. Any of those can be used not only for direct damage but also for oversaturating enemy air defense and missile defense systems. Illustrative photo: Giraffe 4A radar / Photo credit: Saab Particular emphasis is put on cruise and ballistic missiles which remain a common and yet dangerous type of weapons. Between the contemporary trends toward low visibility, maneuvering, increasing speed, and utilization of various flares, one needs to be able to detect the threat despite all the missile's attempts to stay low. The importance of keeping up is illustrated in full by the hostilities in the russo-Ukrainian war. The conflict has shown a lot of improvements implemented for the Kalibr, Kh-101 cruise missiles, the Iskander tactical missile system, and even new-type weapons like the Banderol one-way attack drone. All this is complemented by the increasing use of anti-radar weapons by both sides. Kh-101 air-to-ground cruise missile / Open-source photo Not just investing in air surveillance, Sweden has recently been active in developing its locally designed air and missile defense capabilities. Saab has cemented themselves as one of the world's leading manufacturers of radar systems for various applications. The government has also recently purchased the IRIS-T Surface-Launched Medium-Range air defense systems that have modern TRML-4D radars in their composition. In addition, it's in the midst of finalizing the purchase of TPY-4 all-weather radars from U.S. company Lockheed Martin with a range of up to 555 km. 1 of 1 , 57 khaskhabar.com: , 14 2025 3:00 PM Performers perform during a grand symphonic epic concert, titled "Ode to Peace and the Future," at Sydney Town Hall in Sydney, Australia, Aug. 9, 2025. The concert, together with a photo exhibition were held here on Saturday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.(Xinhua/Ma Ping) SYDNEY, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- A grand symphonic epic concert and a photo exhibition were held at Sydney Town Hall on Saturday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. The event, titled "Ode to Peace and the Future," was attended by over 2,000 people from China, Australia and other countries. Upon entering the Sydney Town Hall, attendees were greeted by 80 historical photographs from World War II, capturing scenes of people around the world bravely resisting fascist aggression. Many guests stopped to view those photos carefully and take pictures. At the concert, the Huaxing Arts Group Australia joined hands with Australian artists to present performances featuring symphony, chorus, solo performances, and poetry recitals, which struck a deep chord with the audience. Chinese Consul General in Sydney Wang Yu said in his speech that the people of China and Australia stood united against fascism, supporting each other, and together made important contributions to the final victory of the world's anti-fascist war. All countries must work together to safeguard international fairness and justice, and to uphold the outcomes of the victory of World Anti-Fascist War and the post-war international order, he said. Mark Buttigieg, a member of the Legislative Council of New South Wales (NSW), representing the state's premier, attended and addressed the event. The Chinese people made a massive contribution in World War II, he said, emphasizing that people must be vigilant all the time and constantly promote the cause of peace. The event was hosted by the Huaxing Arts Group Australia and co-organized by the Chinese Consulate-General in Sydney, the Maritime Union of Australia, and NSW South Coast Labor Council. Performers perform during a grand symphonic epic concert, titled "Ode to Peace and the Future," at Sydney Town Hall in Sydney, Australia, Aug. 9, 2025. The concert, together with a photo exhibition were held here on Saturday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.(Xinhua/Ma Ping) Performers perform during a grand symphonic epic concert, titled "Ode to Peace and the Future," at Sydney Town Hall in Sydney, Australia, Aug. 9, 2025. The concert, together with a photo exhibition were held here on Saturday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.(Xinhua/Ma Ping) Editor: WXY Over 1,500 girl guides from across Ireland and around the world gathered in Clongowes College for a week-long international adventure last week (3-9 August). This constellation-themed camp is set to be an unforgettable celebration of leadership, friendship, and fun. Participants aged 1017 embarked on a journey through nine immersive activity zones. These included everything from robotics and First Aid to African drumming, yoga, planetarium visits, and sustainability workshops, each designed to spark confidence, creativity, and global awareness. "Orbit 2025 is the result of passion, commitment, creativity, teamwork, and a shared belief in the power of Guiding from an incredible team of volunteers, said spokesperson Aisling Claffey. With Orbit, we wanted to show that just like stars in a galaxy each girl shines in her own way. And together, weve created something vast, beautiful, and full of potential. Orbit 2025 reminds us that real impact happens when we come together." said Aisling. Inspired by the belief that every girl is a star, the event invites participants to shine brightly within their own vibrant subcamp, each named after a constellation. The theme of unity and collaboration runs through every aspect of the experience, celebrating the idea that while one person alone cannot change the world, together we can shape a better universe. This years camp welcomed Guides from Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, India, Malta, New Zealand, Portugal, the United States, the UK, a powerful reflection of the global sisterhood of Guiding. Entirely volunteer-led, Orbit 2025 is powered by the dedication of hundreds of Irish Girl Guides Leaders and volunteers-staff, who have created a space where girls can grow in confidence, connection, and leadership Kildare minister Martin Heydon has paid tribute to Mairead McGuinness who has withdrawn from the presidential race on Thursday afternoon. Minister Heydon is Fine Gael Director of Elections for the upcoming Presidential Elections. He said: I wish to join with An Tanaiste, my Fine Gael Parliamentary Party colleagues and our members in acknowledging and paying tribute to Mairead McGuinness, who has served Fine Gael and Ireland with distinction in her public life. The Fine Gael Executive Council will meet in the coming days to discuss the next steps, but for now, I, along with Maireads many friends and colleagues within the party send their very best wishes to her and her family. In a statement released this afternoon, Ms McGuinness said: "I have made the very difficult decision to withdraw my name as the Fine Gael nominee for the Presidential election. "This decision is not lightly taken and follows a stay in hospital last week. "My priority now is my health. Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all." In her statement, the former EU Commissioner explained: "I am taking this decision on medical advice and while it is extremely difficult, it is the right decision for me and my family. "I appreciate that this will come as a shock and disappointment to party members and colleagues in Fine Gael, but our political family is strong. "I have spoken with the Tanaiste and Party leader, Simon Harris, and thank him for his support and understanding. "I also want to thank all of those people who have done so much to support me, now and in the past. "My focus now is my health and my family, and I ask for privacy in the time ahead." NINE exceptional producers from Kildare have made it through to the final stage of Irelands most prestigious food awards Blas na hEireann. The finalists shortlisted from Kildare across a wide range of categories are Bergins Family Butchers, Coghlans Bakery Products, and Couverture Desserts from Naas, O'Brien Fine Foods in Timahoe, Rye River from Celbridge, The Dew Drop Brewhouse in Kill, The Grill Shack, Donadea, Trouble Brewing in Kildare town, Wild Women Bitters in Naas also. Weve been shortlisted for two products, said Celine Hayes, CEO of Couverture Desserts in Monread for the last 27 years. Its a Supervalu Signature Taste Belgian chocolate Yule log, and a Belgian chocolate brownie." She added: We have quite the collection of stars on our walls. A few years ago we won Best Dessert for three yeas in a row, so there is a bit of history with us and Blas." The countdown is now officially on for the return to Dingle this autumn, where the very best of Irish food and drink will be celebrated from Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October, with the Blas Village, Showcase, Eat Ireland in a Day market, and the awards themselves all running on the Friday (3 October). Now in its 18th year, Blas na hEireann continues to grow, with more than 3,000 entries submitted from across the island, and a record number of new producers taking part. The 2025 awards also see the biggest ever expansion in categories, now totalling 190, including significant growth in fast-evolving areas such as alcoholic drinks and their non-alcoholic alternatives. The judging, which took place over May, June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of expert judges, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders. Only the top entries from each category make it to the finalist stage, which is a huge achievement in itself. We are proud to be associated with the Blas na hEireann Awards this year and delighted to see the quality and range of our finalists which is truly representative of the best of Kildares distinctive food and beverage culture, at all levels, from micro enterprises to sustainably scaled producers, said Jacqui Mc Nabb, Kildare County Councils Head of Enterprise, Economic Development and Tourism. Glanbia plc, the Better Nutrition company, announces that with effect today it is appointing Independent Non-Executive Director, Paul Duffy, Chair Designate and that he will succeed Donard Gaynor as Chair of the Company on 1 January 2026. Mr Gaynor will retire as Chair and from the Board of the Company on December 31, 2025. This follows a comprehensive Chair succession process which was led by Roisin Brennan, the Senior Independent Director. TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS Mr Duffy has been a director of Glanbia plc since March 1, 2021 and has significant global business experience in the consumer sector. He is a member of the Companys Nomination & Governance and Remuneration Committees as well as Chair of the Audit Committee. Paul is a former Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard North America, a global leader in the wine and spirits industry. During his 25 year career with Pernod Ricard, Paul held a number of senior leadership positions including serving as Chairman and CEO roles at Pernod Ricard UK, The Absolut Company (Sweden) and Irish Distillers. He served on the Pernod Ricard global management executive committee. Paul is a Fellow of Chartered Accountants Ireland and is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. He is a Non-Executive Director of Hostelworld Group plc, W.A. Baxter & Sons and former Chairman of Irish Childrens Museum CLG. Commenting Mr Duffy said, "It is a privilege to be appointed Chair of Glanbia plc. I look forward to working with the Glanbia Board and leadership team on the focused delivery of strategy and value creation for our stakeholders. On behalf of the Board, I would like to warmly thank Donard for his dedicated service and leadership of the Company over the past 12 years. He has made a substantial contribution during a period of significant evolution for Glanbia." Mr Gaynor said, "It has been an honour to serve as the first independent Chair of Glanbia plc. I would like to thank Siobhan Talbot, Hugh McGuire, my Board colleagues and our shareholders for their support during my tenure as Chairman. Paul has excellent experience and a strong track record of delivery in executive and non-executive roles which he has brought to Glanbia. "I look forward to working with Paul in the coming months to facilitate a smooth transition ahead of his formal appointment as Glanbia Chair on 1 January 2026. The Company confirms that there are no other matters requiring disclosure under Paragraph 6.1.7 Chapter 6 of the Euronext Dublin Listing Rules and Paragraph 6.4.8 Chapter 6 of the London Stock Exchange Listing Rules Meteorologist Joanna Donnelly has spoken publicly for the first time following her much-publicised exit from Met Eireann earlier this year. The weather expert, who fronted weather updates on RTE television for more a decade, explained the reasons behind her abrupt departure which she announced live on air last Easter - shocking many people across the country. Donnelly decided to stay silent around her departure until this week. Writing in the Sunday Independent and speaking in a number of media interviews, she has explained exactly what led to her decision to leave Met Eireann (and RTE). Speaking on The Hard Shoulder with Kieran Cuddihy on Newstalk, Ms Donnelly stated that it was one particular incident when she knew something had to change after tensions built up for months over the working conditions she faced. Describing what happened, she said: "I got into a crazy argument in a graveyard, some guy was speeding at a graveyard, he beeped at me as I was trying to cross the road, I went insane, I lost my reason. I actually frightened myself." It was an-eye opening experience for the presenter who expanded on the impact it had on her saying: "I called Harm (her husband) afterwards and I said I'm stressed out, this has to stop." READ MORE: Ever wanted to be in the Late Late Show audience? RTE opens applications for new season Donnelly does admit she found the perfect role within Met Eireann job saying: "They say if you find something you love to do then you never work a day in your life, I loved it, it was a dream job for me." For a time, she was one of the highest profile personalities in Ireland - between her appearances on RTE TV, public appearances and writing books about the weather. When asked why she left Met Eireann by Cuddihy, The meteorologist confessed: "In the last few years, things started to change, it was nothing to do with the work that I did - I work as a civil servant so you have certain working conditions and the deterioration of those working conditions were starting to play on me." Reflecting on the decision (to leave) with hindsight, Donnelly admitted: "I didn't realise I was stressed, it gave me chronic fatigue, I didn't know what was happening to me, I was at the doctor blaming Covid and Menopause of course and it was only in the end that I realised it was stress." During the interview, she spoke of the toll it (her working conditions) was taking on her and how it made carrying out the role untenable. "It was really knocking me and knocking my belief in myself, my body was ill, I was spending weeks on the sofa, I took some time off work sick actually with the stress to try and see if I could mend that and I couldn't, I had to go." The decision marked an end to over 30 years in meteorology and weather forecasting for the Dublin woman who, most likely, will have no shortage of opportunities in the future. Joanna appeared on the most-recent series of Dancing with the Stars on RTE earlier in the year and was the third celebrity to be eliminated. Miroslav Jenca, UN assistant secretary-general for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas, speaks at a Security Council meeting at the UN headquarters in New York, on Aug. 10, 2025. Jenca warned Sunday that Israel's decision to take over Gaza City may trigger another calamity in Gaza. (Evan Schneider/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua) UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 10 (Xinhua) -- A UN official warned Sunday that Israel's decision to take over Gaza City may trigger another calamity in Gaza. "We are already witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe of unimaginable scale in Gaza," said Miroslav Jenca, UN assistant secretary-general for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas. "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." For now, there are limited official details of Israel's military plans. However, according to Israeli media reports, the government foresees the displacement of all civilians from Gaza City by Oct. 7, 2025, affecting some 800,000 people, many of them previously displaced. Reports indicate that the Israel Defense Forces would then surround the city for three months. This would then reportedly be followed by an additional two months to seize control of central Gaza's camps and clear the entire area of Palestinian armed groups, Jenca told a meeting of the Security Council. "The UN has been unequivocal: the only way to stop the immense human suffering in Gaza is through a full, immediate, and permanent ceasefire," he said. All hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally. Israel must comply with its obligations under international humanitarian law, allowing rapid, safe, unimpeded and large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid to the population. Civilians, including humanitarian workers and those seeking aid, must be protected, he said. There is no military solution to the armed conflict in Gaza or the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict, said Jenca. "There will be no sustainable solution without an end to Israel's unlawful occupation and the achievement of a viable two-state solution. Gaza is, and must remain, an integral part of a Palestinian state," he said. Editor: WXY At the end of the 19th century, the idea that women could pursue higher education was considered an affront by many in Germany. While female students were already attending lectures in the US, France, and even Switzerland, women in Germany were still denied access to higher education. But resistance began to stir in Karlsruhe and it came from the women themselves. First steps toward equal rights As early as 1885, a private painting school for women was founded under the patronage of Grand Duchess Luise, since women were not permitted to attend the state-run Academy of Fine Arts. Two years later, following a resolution by the Karlsruhe municipal council, women were allowed to attend lectures at the Technical University as guest auditors but only in art history and literary history. Clara Immerwahr, a chemist with a doctorate and wife of future Nobel Prize laureate Fritz Haber, gave public education lectures on Chemistry in the Kitchen and the Home. Although the topic reflected traditional gender roles, it marked an initial step toward scientific participation. The breakthrough finally enrolled The turning point came in 1900: the state of Baden allowed women to enroll in university on a trial basis. Johanna Kappes from Karlsruhe was among the first women to be officially matriculated. Her fellow student Magdalena Meub later became Germanys first licensed female pharmacist, and Thekla Schild became Badens first female graduate engineer. In 1915, Irene Rosenberg became the first woman to earn a doctorate at the Institute of Chemistry. Yet the path to academia remained difficult for women: in the 1920s, they were still a rare presence at the Technical University. Under National Socialist rule, women were pushed back into the domestic sphere: in 1934, restrictions on university admission, compulsory labor service, and a dramatic decline in female student numbers were introduced. A slow awakening After World War II, women gradually returned to the Technical University. But it was not until the 1960s that their numbers began to rise noticeably. The social transformations of the time broader access to education, new career paths, and growing youth self-confidence were also reflected in the lecture halls. In 1970, women made up eight percent of the student body; by 1980, the figure had risen to over 14 percent. The doors were open, but many women still had to fight for their place. Today, women account for around 29 percent of KITs student population. The first female professor, Dagmar Gerthsen, was appointed in 1993. By 2022, 18 percent of professorships were held by women. The fight for educational equality has borne fruit and is far from over. KIT is now actively committed to equal opportunity and diversity: At KIT, we are proud of the close ties between students, alumni and alumnae, researchers, instructors, and staff, because our diversity is our strength. It is not only a given, but also the driving force behind creativity and innovation, said Jan S. Hesthaven, President of KIT, in his speech marking the 200th anniversary. mex, August 14, 2025 Stuff reports: NZs top security officials were all set to renew the terrorist designation of Americas violently extreme right-wing populist group the Proud Boys. But the chair changed his mind at the last minute. Explainer Editor Lloyd Burr delves through 119 pages of official documents. A lot of that advice emails, discussion documents and even a draft announcement were released on Wednesday, totalling 119 documents. They show a whole lot of preparation and work to renew the APB terrorist designation then an 11th hour decision by National Security Board (NSB) chair and Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet (DPMC) CEO Ben King not to. But on June 17, the day before the deadline, King changed his mind, writing to his DPMC colleagues: I wanted to have one last look at the assessments before I finally recommended a course of action to the Prime Minister, ahead of the deadline for renewal/redesignation. Thats because designating any entity as a terrorist entity is a significant step, and its important we maintain the integrity of the system. My review of the case for the Proud Boys, however, left me with questions about whether the evidence was sufficient to meet the test. The case, in my view, rests on judgements around intent, and what might have happened if the leadership were not incarcerated. The reference to incarceration is because APB leader Henry Enrique Tarrio had been sentenced to 22 years in prison over the Capitol riots. Other APB members had been imprisoned too. But President Donald Trump had pardoned them all earlier in the year. I dont know why Ben King changed his mind. Disappointingly he doesnt consult bloggers on national security terrorist designations. But Im happy to take an educated guess. Generally speaking terrorist groups tend to be seen as such, by the government of the country they are based in. The UK Government saw the IRA as a terrorist group, the German Government saw the Red Army faction as a terrorist group etc. The exception tends to be where the government itself is a sponsor of terrorism, such as Iran. The Trump Administration doesnt see the Proud Boys as a terrorist group. To the contrary, Trump has pardoned many of them. So if New Zealand had renewed their designation as a terrorist group, it would be potentially seen as very insulting by the US President, if he was told about it. Kings letter continues to outline his U-turn rationale: I was not convinced, on a final read, that the Statement of Case met the test required by the Act. I want to be clear that Proud Boys is a distasteful, disruptive and corrosive organisation, and that its tactics and methods are well beyond the pale. But I think we require further work and reflection on the evidence base, which will feed into advice for the Prime Ministers consideration. I have recommended to the Prime Minister that he should not proceed with redesignating the Proud Boys. King is correct that the Proud Boys are corrosive. But that by itself doesnt mean they are a terrorist group. Of interest is the fact that NZ was one of only two countries (Canada also) that ever designated them as such. The Herald reports: Days before the United States-led invasion of Iraq, five protesters broke into a British military base, intent on disabling aircraft that were set to be deployed in bombing missions. It was March 2003, and the group said it wanted to prevent war crimes and protect civilians. Among those who later defended them in court was a 43-year-old human rights lawyer. His name was Keir Starmer. In a strange echo, 22 years later, Starmer would face a similar case, but now as Prime Minister of Britain. In June, activists from a group called Palestine Action broke into a Royal Air Force base, sprayed red paint into aircraft engines and damaged the planes with crowbars. But a very different result ensued. The protesters in 2003 were prosecuted under criminal laws against property damage. In June, Starmers Government announced that Palestine Action would be added to its list of banned terrorist organisations, alongside groups including al-Qaeda, Hezbollah and Atomwaffen Division, a neo-Nazi group. It was the first time in modern British history, according to the Governments adviser on counterterrorism laws, that a protest group that does not call for violence against people had been proscribed as a terrorist organisation. This laptop screen shows a broadcast of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's press conference on Aug. 11, 2025. Albanese said on Monday that Australia will officially recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September. (Xinhua/Ma Ping) CANBERRA, Aug. 11 (Xinhua) -- Australia will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Monday. Speaking at a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra alongside Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, Albanese said that Australia will recognize the "right" of the Palestinian people to a "state of their own." "A two-state solution is humanity's best hope to break the cycle of violence in the Middle East and to bring an end to the conflict, suffering and starvation in Gaza," he said. Albanese said that his cabinet met on Monday morning and endorsed the move to recognize Palestinian statehood as part of a "coordinated global effort" building momentum for a two-state solution. He said that the decision followed conversations with leaders in Britain, France, New Zealand and Japan as well as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The Palestinian Authority has promised Australia that it would recognize Israel's right to exist, hold general elections and demilitarize, Albanese said. The prime minister reiterated criticism of Israel's withholding of aid in Gaza and of increased settler violence in the West Bank, describing the humanitarian situation in Gaza as "beyond the world's worst fears." "There have been threats to annex the occupied Palestinian territories and proposing the permanent forced displacement of the Palestinian people. These actions, together with the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, risk putting a two-state solution out of reach for a generation," he said. Monday's announcement came after Albanese and senior members of his Labor Party government escalated criticism of Israel, and called for a ceasefire, in recent weeks. This laptop screen shows a broadcast of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's press conference on Aug. 11, 2025. Albanese said on Monday that Australia will officially recognize the State of Palestine at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September. (Xinhua/Ma Ping) Editor: WXY Kim Keon-hee (C), wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, is seen at the Seoul Central District Court in Seoul, South Korea, Aug. 12, 2025. The Seoul Central District Court issued a warrant to detain Kim Keon-hee Tuesday night, on charges of violating the capital market act, the political funds act and a law on the acceptance of bribes for mediation, saying that the move aimed to prevent Kim from destroying evidence. Kim was jailed in the Seoul Southern Detention Center in Seoul, where she had been awaiting the court's decision after attending the court hearing on her detention. (NEWSIS/Handout via Xinhua) SEOUL, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- 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. The Seoul Central District Court issued the warrant, requested by independent counsel Min Joong-ki, on charges of violating the capital market act, the political funds act and a law on the acceptance of bribes for mediation, saying that the move aimed to prevent Kim from destroying evidence. Kim was jailed in the Seoul Southern Detention Center in Seoul, where she had been awaiting the court's decision after attending the court hearing on her detention. It marked the first time in the country's constitutional history that ex-presidential couple was simultaneously brought into custody. Yoon has been held at a separate detention center since July 10 on insurrection charges over his short-lived martial law imposition last December. Kim was suspected of participating in a stock price manipulation, interfering with the nomination of candidates in the 2022 parliamentary by-elections, and receiving luxury gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors. Kim Keon-hee (C), wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, is seen at the Seoul Central District Court in Seoul, South Korea, Aug. 12, 2025. The Seoul Central District Court issued a warrant to detain Kim Keon-hee Tuesday night, on charges of violating the capital market act, the political funds act and a law on the acceptance of bribes for mediation, saying that the move aimed to prevent Kim from destroying evidence. Kim was jailed in the Seoul Southern Detention Center in Seoul, where she had been awaiting the court's decision after attending the court hearing on her detention. (NEWSIS/Handout via Xinhua) Editor: WXY Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. 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) Editor: ZAD Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. 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. Editor: WXY Zeng Jixin (L), head of China's office to the State of Palestine, shakes hands with Karim Amer, director of partnerships of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), after signing a contribution agreement in Amman, Jordan, Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua) AMMAN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China signed an agreement on Wednesday to contribute to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and called for continued international support for the body, which says it faces an "existential crisis" from the war in Gaza and a severe funding gap. The contribution agreement, part of Beijing's annual donation, was signed in the Jordanian capital by Zeng Jixin, head of China's office to the State of Palestine, and Karim Amer, UNRWA's director of partnerships. Zeng praised what he called UNRWA's "indispensable" role in providing humanitarian assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees. He said China has increased its annual donation and provided medical supplies and other aid since the Gaza conflict erupted. "China calls on the international community to continue supporting UNRWA," Zeng said, adding that Beijing was ready to work toward ending the fighting and achieving a just, lasting solution based on a two-state framework. The UNRWA has faced a major funding crisis after several key donor countries suspended contributions following Israeli accusations that a dozen of the agency's staff participated in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks. While many donors have since resumed funding, the agency says it is still grappling with "very big" financial challenges. Juliette Touma, UNRWA's communications director, said the agency is also undergoing an "existential crisis" amid the devastating conflict in Gaza, where at least 340 of its staff have been killed since the war began. "China has been a dear friend of the Palestinian refugees, a dear friend of UNRWA. Their contributions are always welcome," Touma said, expressing gratitude for Beijing's support. Editor: WXY By Henry Saker-Clark, PA Deputy Business Editor Fashion accessories chain Claires has appointed administrators for its Ireland and UK 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. Ukraine's Ministry of Economy and the State Service of Geology and Subsoil will conduct an audit of all subsoil users who hold permits for strategically important deposits, following an order from Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. "We plan to check who is actually working and who is simply holding licenses without extraction. Such sites must either produce results or go back to auction for honest investors," she wrote on Telegram on Thursday. As reported, in mid-July this year, the Cabinet of Ministers, by Resolution No. 845, approved the lists of minerals and components of strategic and critical importance, as well as lists of subsoil plots (mineral deposits) of strategic and/or critical importance that will be offered for use through auctions or production-sharing agreements (PSAs). The first list of strategically important minerals and components includes 11: aluminum, beryllium, copper, nickel, niobium, strontium, tantalum, titanium, uranium, and zirconium ores, as well as fluorite. Together with critically important minerals, the total list contains 28 items. As for deposits, the list of those to be auctioned includes 60 sites, while 26 will be offered under PSAs. Of these, there is one vanadium ore deposit, one lithium ore deposit, two potassium salt deposits, five titanium ore deposits, and 17 uranium ore deposits. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced back in February this year that Ukraine had begun an audit of its subsoil resources as part of preparations for a memorandum with the United States, and that the government intended to protect businesses that are legally developing them. "There are quite a few license holders in Ukraine. This entire process (signing a memorandum on mineral development with the United States) will help us in any case. First, all of our agencies, which have never engaged in such serious legal work before, will finally conduct a real audit of existing licenses. And this is already happening," the President said. According to him, the last major mineral development projects in Ukraine took place 5060 years ago. "This allows us to bring order: to know what we have, how much it's worth, and who owns it. There will be decisions accordingly: what's legally owned, what's not, which licenses are active, and which are dormant. Where ownership is fair and business is engaged, we will defend them. We need that. Where licenses are dormant and someone has plundered resources, we will reclaim them. This is important for us," Zelenskyy added. Svyrydenko recently said that the practical work of the Ukraine-U.S. Reconstruction Investment Fund, created in the springsummer of this year to focus on critical minerals, will begin in September. 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. 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. In July, Ukraine slightly reduces imports of electric generators, batteries by 7% vs June 2025 Imports of electric generator sets and rotating electrical converters to Ukraine in July decreased by 1.7% compared to June 2025 to $127.75 million, according to statistics from the State Customs Service. According to statistics, most often in July, electric generators and converters were imported from the Czech Republic ($40.4 million), Romania ($22.7 million) and Austria ($1.6 million), while in June, equipment worth $39.7 million was imported from the Czech Republic, Romania - $25.2 million, and Austria - $5.9 million. In total, in January-July of this year, such equipment was imported to Ukraine for $889.85 million, in particular from the Czech Republic - $200.1 million, Romania - $124.3 million, and Austria - $96.1 million. As reported, according to the results of the first half of 2025, imports of electric generating sets and electric converters increased 7.1 times compared to the same period in 2024 - to $762.2 million, which has already exceeded the figure for the entire 2024. Ukraine exported small amounts of electric generators in July 2025 ($3.3 million), mainly supplying them to the Czech Republic, Latvia, and Bulgaria. In addition, according to the State Customs Service, in July, imports of electric batteries and separators to them decreased by 7% compared to June of this year - to $150.7 million. They were mostly imported from China ($87.3 million), as well as from Vietnam ($20 million) and Taiwan ($9 million). Over the seven months, such equipment was imported to Ukraine for $695.6 million, mainly from China ($450 million). During this period, Ukraine exported batteries for $29.7 million, mainly to Poland (31.5%), France (12.7%) and Germany (12.3%). As reported, at the end of July 2024, Ukraine exempted the import of electric generator equipment and batteries from customs duties and VAT. Signage warns of no trespassing Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in an area occupied by unhoused people along between Jordan Creek and the Jordan Creek Parkway trail at Jordan Meadows Park off American Parkway in Allentown. Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com The United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and River Crossing YMCA announced plans to open a warming station ahead of schedule to accommodate residents of the Allentowns Jordan Creek homeless encampment, who face evacuation on Aug. 25. The warming station at the Allentown YMCA branch will open by Sept. 30, nearly two months earlier than its typical mid-November start date. The facility, which usually operates through mid-April, provides daily shelter, food, and essential services to those experiencing homelessness. We are pleased to provide a short-term solution for shelter by opening the Warming Station nearly two months ahead of schedule, River Crossing YMCA President and CEO Zane Moore said in a statement on Thursday. The YMCA has operated the warming station at its 425 S. 15th St. location since 2018, offering beds, meals, and shower facilities in addition to coordinating case management and health care services. Opening the shelter early represents a collaborative effort among multiple community partners, including the City of Allentown, Lehigh County, and the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation. United Way President and CEO Marci Lesko emphasized that while this addresses immediate needs, longer-term solutions are necessary. Were committed to working with the residents, the City, County and the nonprofit service providers to ensure that all residents will have access to ongoing safe, stable and appropriate housing, Lesko said. Citing flooding concerns, Allentown officials last week announced unhoused residents living along Jordan Creek must leave by Aug, 25. Advocates for the unhoused in the Lehigh Valley were alarmed by the move, equating it to an eviction. Those wishing to support the housing efforts can donate online via unitedwayglv.org; mail checks to the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley at 1110 American Parkway NE, Suite F-120, Allentown, PA 18109 (marked for Emergency Services Fund); or text ALLENTOWN to 40403. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Generative AI was used to organize and structure this story, based on data provided by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and River Crossing YMCA. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff. The arrests come two years after the June 2023 homicide of a 29-year-old man at Synergy Hookah Lounge, with suspects allegedly caught cleaning blood from the scene. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com Four individuals have been arrested in connection with a 2023 stabbing death of a 29-year-old man at an Allentown hookah lounge. Slefhon Christ Buchanan, 28, of the 400 block of West Tilghman Street and Robin L. Scott, 48, of the 600 block of North Penn Street, both in Allentown; Kali Nicole Martin, of the 800 block of Second Street in Whitehall; and Jerome Briggs Joyner, 40, of the 700 block of Laufer Street in Bethlehem, all have been charged in the June 18, 2023 incident. Buchanan, Scott, Martin and Joyner each face one count of misdemeanor evidence tampering. Charges were filed against the co-defendants in June, and they each received mailed summonses on Wednesday, according to court records. Joyner was arraigned Thursday morning before District Judge Michael DAmore, who released him on his own recognizance. Buchanan, Scott and Martin also were scheduled to be arraigned Thursday before DAmore. Bala Cynwyd, Montgomery County-based defense attorney Jeremy-Evan Alva, representing Scott, couldnt immediately be reached for comment Thursday morning. No attorney information was listed in court records for Buchanan, Martin or Joyner. The stabbing happened just before 3 a.m. June 18, 2023 at Synergy Hookah Lounge, located at 1522 Union Blvd. approximately a mile from the Allentown-Bethlehem border. City police said 29-year-old Kevin Tarafa was stabbed when a fight broke out inside the lounge. Tarafa was later found outside, about a block away from the venue, with stab wounds to the chest and was pronounced dead at the scene. Tarafa died from multiple stab wounds and the manner was ruled a homicide by Lehigh County Coroner Daniel A. Buglio. Investigators evacuated the hookah lounge after the stabbing. Police then arrested now 25-year-old Isiah Yeager of Allentown, who was later charged with criminal homicide in the stabbing of Tarafa. Yeager currently is awaiting his homicide trial and remains incarcerated at the Lehigh County Jail after being denied bail, court records state. Video surveillance footage obtained by investigators showed Buchanan, Martin and Joyner cleaning blood off the floor shortly after Tarafa left the venue, according to court records. Investigators stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz after observing the driver, later identified as Scott, allegedly picking up two men who were suspiciously walking away from the hookah lounge. Investigators obtained a search warrant for the Mercedes. Police said they seized a green-and-black folding knife wrapped with a hooded sweatshirt on the floor, behind the drivers seat. The knife also had blood stains and muscle tissue on the blade matching the DNA of Tarafa and Scott, according to the affidavit of probable cause. The court record lays out evidence and witness testimony in a case. Buchanan, Scott, Joyner are all due back in court for a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for later Thursday before DAmore. Martin is due back in court for a preliminary hearing tentatively scheduled for 10 a.m. Oct. 2 before DAmore. A judge will then determine if theres sufficient evidence to send each of the cases toward trial at the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Enable: The Disability Podcast is a new podcast featuring stories of amazing people with disabilities and different abilities. Advance Local Enable: The Disability Podcast is a new podcast featuring stories of amazing people with disabilities and different abilities. In Episode 1, Enable co-hosts Geoff DeafGeoff Herbert and Kurt Hower introduce themselves, sharing their own experiences and challenges theyve faced. Herbert was born with a profound binaural hearing loss. Hower has ankylosing spondylitis, a rare disease that causes arthritis of the spine. Herbert and Hower seek to use the podcast to share stories of others, highlight resources available, and teach the importance of focusing on what you can do, not what you cant. Disability is not a dirty word, Herbert says. People value me for what I bring to the table, Hower adds. So although I might have a deficit in one area, in another area I might have a lot to offer. About the hosts Geoff Herbert is a reporter, SEO Lead and content supervisor for syracuse.com | The Post-Standard, where hes worked for 15 years. Despite being mostly deaf in both ears, hes also worked as a DJ for 25 years, including 10 years in radio (as DeafGeoff) and 10 years as a wedding DJ in Upstate New York. He learned how to communicate orally with hearing aids, lipreading and speech therapy, and embraces assistive technology like visual waveforms in music programs, closed captioning/subtitles, and video calls. Kurt Hower, who has worked at Advance Local for over 35 years, is a leader both in the media industry and in the community. He has been actively involved in leading change as the print industry has continued to rapidly evolve, while also serving on a variety of boards including the Central PA Chapter Arthritis Foundation Board of Directors where he was Chairman of Board Development and a member of the Public Policy and Advocacy Committee. He encourages others to focus on what they can contribute to society rather than their challenges. Enable: The Disability Podcast will release new episodes weekly on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Follow facebook.com/enablepodcast or @enablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok for more. Community at Work Job Fair The Community at Work Job Fair will take place Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at CNY Works, 960 James St., in Syracuse, N.Y. The free event will provide adults with physical and mental disabilities the opportunity to meet inclusive employers, explore industries, and learn about positions with actively hiring companies. Herbert and Hower will co-host a panel discussion about hiring tips and accessibility options at the job fair. The discussion will be recorded for an episode of the Enable podcast. While the fair is tailored for adults with diverse mental and physical abilities, experiences or access needs, all community members are welcome. Participation is free for both job seekers and employers. For more information, visit communityatworkjobfair.com. Police responded to a 911 hang-up call around 12:30 a.m. Thursday and found a 35-year-old man with a gunshot wound. The suspect remains at large. Saed Hindash | For lehighvalleylive.com UPDATE: 2 men wanted on felony counts in Easton shooting and robbery, police say Easton police are searching for a suspect they say shot a male victim early Thursday and fled during a suspected robbery. Easton Police Lt. Matthew Gerould said investigators responded to a 911 hang-up call just after 12:30 a.m. in the 1000 block of Ferry Street. They found the 35-year-old victim on the street suffering from a gunshot wound, and he was transported to an area hospital for treatment. The victim is expected to survive his injuries, Gerould said. Police are searching for the suspect. Its unclear if the suspect knew the victim. Its too early to comment on that, Gerould said Thursday afternoon, noting the investigation remains in its preliminary stages. Police believe a robbery took place just prior to the gunfire and involved a group of individuals, Gerould told lehighvalleylive.com. The investigation remains active and ongoing. Easton police seek witnesses and those who might have video surveillance footage of the incident. Those with information are asked to call the Easton Police Departments Criminal Investigation Division at 610-250-6637. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. A planning application for a new housing development in Abbeyleix has been given the green light by Laois County Council. The plan includes the demolition of a shop and the construction of 26 new apartments and houses. Applicant Cubic Housing Ltd. applied for permission to demolish a furniture shop called Dunnes Hardware, on New Row in Abbeyleix. It sought permission to build a range of homes in its stead. The original plans sought permission for three 2-storey four bedroom terraced houses, four more attached homes with three bedrooms each, three dormer style three bedroom terraced homes, ten two bedroom bungalows, and finally a two storey duplex block containing eight one bedroom apartments. The application also sought permission to install a communal bin and bicycle store, a new vehicular entrance from New Row, parking spaces, boundary treatments, a landscaped amenity space, a local road and footpaths. Extensive further information was sought by Laois County Council from the applicant. The local authority raised concerns about the density of the development and a revised plan for 26 units rather than 28 was submitted. "The revised proposal reflects a scaled-back scheme in line with available infrastructure and sustainable growth objectives," said the applicant. The applicant was asked to provide a redesign of the footpath layout after concerns were raised from the Roads Design department and the removal of a communal parking arrangement was also sought. The applicant said to accommodate this change modifications were required to the site layout and road geometry, which in turn resulted in the loss of two duplex units. The applicant was also asked to provide a detailed waste disposal plan and a public lighting design for the development They were asked to make a pre-connection enquiry to Uisce Eireann and informed the Council that both the water and waste-water connections are feasible without the need for upgrades. Following the request for further information more detailed plans outlining the precise private open space area allocated to each individual unit was submitted. A road safety audit was also requested and the Council raised a number of road safety concerns which needed to be addressed. READ NEXT: Good samaritan hands in purse with money to Laois Garda station Following this the applicant submitted revised visibility splays at the proposed entrance, revised parking and a yield sign at the entrance was changed to a stop sign. The proposed development includes a realignment of the existing pedestrian walkway that currently provides access from New Road to Fr Breen Park and associated community sports facilities. Written consent from the Trustees of Fr Breen Park, who hold authority over the affected right of way, was submitted. The application was granted permission with 19 conditions attached. Grass Roots Sessions returns to Kavanaghs Bar & Venue, Portlaoise Thursday, August 14, following what the organisers say was a hugely successful opening night that should set the tone for an unforgettable series of new music. Showcasing original music from the heart of the Midlands in Portlaoise, the organisers say the second instalment continues the mission of giving emerging bands and artists a professional platform to perform, connect, and be heard. "With another powerful lineup of fresh talent, Grass Roots Sessions 2 is set to build on the energy and support of the opening nightdelivering raw, authentic live music in one of Irelands most respected grassroots venues," the organisers told the Leinster Express / Laois Live. Three more acts are on the bill, starting with Kevin Quigley & The Great Ideas. MORE BELOW PHOTO. This Timahoe troubador is described as a fresh voice in Irish folk rock, who is a natural-born storyteller with music strikes a deep emotional chord. "Blending the heart of classic folk with a sharp contemporary edge, his songs are rich in narrative, melody, and raw authenticity. Influenced by legends like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and Glen Hansard, Quigleys sound channels timeless songwriting while carving out something uniquely his own," say the Grass Roots team. Next up is Dopamine. MORE BELOW PHOTO. Young but not new to the local scene, this Portarlington-founded indie rock four-piece are known for their energetic performances and fast-growing following. "With standout singles and a debut album on the way, Dopamine are quickly making their mark on the Irish scene. The band is made up of four members: Juan Miguel Deborde (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Sean Fleming (lead guitar, vocals), Kris Gavin (bass), and Sean Woods (drums). Their undeniable chemistry and diverse musical backgrounds help shape a distinct and cohesive sound," say Grass Roots. Finally, to Lisa Marie Music. MORE BELOW PHOTO. Lisa began her musical journey singing acapella as a child in her parents Dublin home, later training in stage school and performing solo from the age of 14. Initially pursuing dance, she soon turned to songwritingstarting with poetry and evolving into original songs on guitar. After completing music courses and performing with bands, she released her debut EP Bridges and Gateways in 2021. Now based in Wexford, Lisa performs with guitar virtuoso Dave Murphy, a former classmate she unknowingly shared a classroom with 20 years ago. READ ALSO: Big names for Electric Picnic foodie fest The Grass Roots Sessions continues through the autumn at Kavanaghs Bar & Venue, with new lineups announced monthly. Each night is a celebration of original Irish musicand a chance to discover the next wave of talent from the Midlands. Tickets are on sale from www.kavanaghsportlaoise.com This project is part of The Department of Culture, Communications and Sports Night-Time Economy Grassroots Music Venue Support Scheme 2025. Photo: https://t.me/GeneralStaffZSU/ The situation in near Dobropilllia in Donetsk region direction is stabilizing, the Defense Forces of Ukraine are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy groups of Russian invaders, Major Andriy Kovalev, spokesman for General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has told Interfax-Ukraine. He noted that by the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, additional forces and means have been allocated to strengthen the stability of the defense in the on near Dobropillia and Pokrovsk. "In particular, during the actions of the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine Azov, adjacent and subordinate units, the enemy is suffering significant losses. As a result of the fighting, 151 Russian invaders have been eliminated in the corps' area of responsibility over the past two days. More than 70 invaders have been wounded. Also, during this period, the corps soldiers captured eith Russian invaders," she said. Kovalev stressed that the servicemen of the Defense Forces of Ukraine continue search and strike operations in the zone of their responsibility. "The situation is stabilizing," the General Staff noted. The Government facilitates failures at Childrens Health Ireland (CHI), Sinn Fein has said, as the State data watchdog launched a probe into its handling of child health records. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) opened an inquiry on Thursday into the physical safety and security of childrens health records within one specific CHI facility in Tallaght. The DPC said it became aware there were potential issues at this site from a number of sources of information, including through protected disclosures and a breach notification from CHI itself. Having reviewed the information, the DPC conducted an unannounced site inspection on July 16 and has now decided to launch a formal inquiry. The probe will examine CHIs compliance with their GDPR obligations, in particular relating to the security of personal data and the processes that it has in place for managing physical records at CHI Tallaght. Asked about the matter, Sinn Fein health spokesman David Cullinane said there had been a series of clinical, governance and management failures at CHI. He said these included the implantation of unauthorised non-medical grade springs, unnecessary hip surgeries, and problems around insourcing. Mr Cullinane said he has absolutely no confidence in CHI, adding that the trust between CHI and parents had been shattered. He said: But its the Government that facilitates and allows an organisation of Childrens Health Ireland to continue with all of those failures. And whats really frustrating for advocate groups and campaign groups and families is that all of these failures that were now hearing about, they were raising, they were talking about. They were telling the stories, and they were ignored, and they were met with the wall of resistance. CHI said it is co-operating fully with the DPC over the matter, and added: Our priority remains the protection of patient information and ensuring all personal data is handled in line with our legal obligations. A yoga and storytelling event is set to take place on an organic farm located in County Kildare. 'ROOTS Evening Retreat' will feature Network Ireland Kildare Branch Businesswoman of the Year finalist Tara Thompson of The Quest Yoga. It follows after Tara announced a fundraiser in Newbridge for Women's Aid earlier this week. As part of the upcoming farm event, she will join Jane Gormley, Owner of CRAICLY Stories, for an evening which aims to blend forest meditation, Yoga, and tales. According to the organisers, the experience will begin with a grounding meditation session in a private forest located on a 200-acre organic farm in Allenwood. READ NEXT: Driving test delays in Kildare lambasted by local activist Guests will then move to a straw-bale yoga studio for a gentle yoga session, followed by Yoga Nidra, also known as "sleep yoga". As the evening unfolds, food will be served, leading seamlessly into a storytelling session hosted by Jane. Recently featured on Oliver Callans RTE Morning show, Janes storytelling "weaves humour, heart, and heritage into unforgettable narratives". Tickets are limited and are available at www.thequestyoga.com. READ NEXT: GALLERY: GAA stars of the future at Cul Camp at Naas GAA Club in Kildare Kildare's Maynooth University welcomes Met Eireann funding for a new research project which will strengthen Irelands ability to understand and prepare for climate extremes. EXACT, or Extremes Across Climates and Timeframes, is led by Professor Conor Murphy of ICARUS, Maynooth University, with collaborators Dr Amr Mahfouz of the Maynooth University School of Business and Professor Peter Thorne of ICARUS. It will combine Irelands extensive historical climate records with Met Eireanns TRANSLATE climate projections to assess how events such as floods, droughts, and other climate extremes have changed over time. It will also assess how their likelihood may evolve under different climate change scenarios. The project, which will receive 600,000 under the Met Eireanns Weather and Climate Research Programme, will also focus on events where multiple climate hazards occur together or in close succession, such as heavy rainfall following drought, or concurrent heatwaves and dry conditions which often lead to more severe impacts. These are known as compound extremes. A central innovation of the project is the development of causal chains that trace the drivers of past extremes and connect them to future risks. These insights will inform the creation of clear, evidence-based climate storylines that link hazard, vulnerability, and impact helping planners, communities, and sectors better understand and adapt to complex climate risks. These storylines will make scientific information more accessible and actionable, supporting informed decision-making for climate adaptation across sectors. Professor Conor Murphy, Principal Investigator, ICARUS, Maynooth University, said: With climate extremes becoming more frequent and complex, there is an urgent need to understand not just how these events are changing, but how they impact people, places, and sectors across Ireland. Through EXACT, we aim to bridge scientific research and practical decision-making by developing accessible storylines of past and future extremes. These will help support climate services, guide adaptation, and ultimately contribute to building a more climate-resilient Ireland. Working in close partnership with Met Eireann and national stakeholders, EXACT will deliver the tools and knowledge needed to support climate services and build a climate-resilient Ireland. Dr. Patrick Fournet, Met Eireanns Research Funding & Support Manager, congratulated Professor Conor Murphy on his success: We are delighted to provide direct funding to Maynooth University for the EXACT project and look forward to integrating the outcomes of Professor Murphys research within the TRANSLATE flagship programme. Building on our longstanding support via our engagement with researchers and our co-funding partnerships with other research organisations, we are proud to support Maynooth University through this award in our shared mission to maximise the impact of research in the service of society. READ NEXT: Locals claim busy Kildare road is too narrow with new cycle lanes A man aged in his 40s has been arrested in connection with a knifepoint robbery at a North Kildare shop. In addition, a Kildare-based garda has said that the robbery may be linked to a second robbery in North Kildare. The two robberies were detailed by Garda Mark Connolly, who discussed the incidents when he appeared on a radio programme by KFM yesterday morning (August 13 last). He told host Eoin Beatty that the first incident took place on the evening of Friday, August 8 last at McCabe's Gala stop located in Kilmeague. Gda Connolly said that two males, armed with knives, held the shop staff up at two separate tills and later fled from the scene with a sum of cash and a number of stolen scratch cards. "They fled in the direction of Clane and Prosperous," he added. READ NEXT: Appeal launched in Kildare following theft of Yamaha motorbike According to Gda Connolly, the two male perpetrators were: "aged in their 40s or 50s, spoke with Dublin accents, and both were carrying Lifestyle bags". "One of the males was wearing black runners, knee-length shorts, a grey sweater, dark bodywarmer, a blue t-shirt, a woolly hat and had glasses. "The other male wore white runners, grey tracksuit trousers and a dark jacket which had the hood up." He also said that one arrest was made in relation to this incident. NEXT DAY ROBBERY For the second incident, Gda Connolly explained that it occurred the following day (Saturday, August 9 last). He said that at around 9.35pm, a Londis shop in Prosperous was held up at knifepoint by a man, who later fled the scene with "a small amount" of cash. According to Gda Connolly, the man fled the scene in a Volkswagen Passat car with an '11-D' registration plate. He also gave a brief description of the suspect: "The male was around 5 foot 8 inches in height, had dark skin, wore a black hoodie with a grey tracksuit trousers and also wore a blue scarf up to his nose." Gda Connolly concluded by calling on anyone with information about these two crimes to go to their local garda station. He also suggested that they could contact the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. When asked by the Leinster Leader about these two crimes, a garda spokesperson spoke about the first incident: "Gardai received a report of an incident of robbery that occurred at a commercial premises in Kilmeague, County Kildare on Friday, August 8, 2025 at approximately 7.30pm. "No injuries have been reported. "A number of items and a quantity of cash was reported as stolen." They added: "A male in his 40s was arrested and charged and is due to appear in front of the Naas District Court at a later date." As for the second incident, the same spokesperson had this to say: "Gardai received a report of an incident of robbery that occurred at a commercial premises in Clane, County Kildare on Saturday, August 9, 2025 at approximately 9.30pm. "No injuries have been reported. "A quantity of cash was reported as stolen." Once again, the spokesperson added: "A male in his 40s was arrested and charged and is due to appear in front of the Naas District Court at a later date." READ NEXT: Preschool children across Kildare South to benefit from free lunches People from Leitrim and the surrounding counties are set to gather in Ballinamore on Saturday, August 16, to remember John Joe McGirl, almost 37 years after his death. He was a legendary figure in both Leitrims and Irelands Republican history. Last years commemoration saw a record number of people in attendance since the Republicans death in 1988, drawing over two thousand people. This years parade will take place starting at the Square in Ballinamore at 8pm. The parade will be led by the Mountain Road Pipe Band from Teemore in Fermanagh, and the oration will be delivered by Donegal TD Pearse Doherty, one of the best-known and respected deputies in the Dail. Following the commemoration, there will be an Irish night with the Spirit of Freedom group in McGirls. In the case of inclement weather, the commemoration will be held in the Community Hall. READ NEXT: Two Leitrim winners at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann 2025 John Joe McGirl and Sean MacDiarmada were two of the most famous men from Leitrim who were prominent in the struggle for independence and unity throughout the centuries. John Joe dedicated his life to resisting British rule in Ireland, serving terms of imprisonment, mostly without trial, at the Curragh in the 1940s and 1950s, and later in Long Kesh in the 1970s. He was also elected as a TD in the 1957 General Election and was elected to Leitrim County Council in 1960. He was highly respected by people of all political persuasions. McGirl remained a councillor until his death in December 1988, after which his son Liam McGirl was co-opted to the position. Fittingly, John Joes memory is commemorated in his hometown of Ballinamore each year with a parade from John McGahern Square to the McGirl monument, located at the other end of the town beside the bridge crossing the Shannon-Erne Waterway at the entrance to Ballinamore. READ NEXT: RIP: Garda stand down search for Leitrim man (21) amid tragic update Last years event was also led by the Mountain Road Pipe Band, and an oration was delivered by John Finucane, MP for Belfast North. Simon Harris cannot say he did everything he could for the family of a child who died after dealing with delays for scoliosis surgery, Sinn Fein has said. Sinn Fein health spokesman David Cullinane has criticised the Tanaiste over his time dealing with child spinal surgeries as health minister and subsequent time in Government. It comes amid renewed focus on the waiting-list crisis following the death of nine-year-old Harvey Morrison, who suffered from scoliosis, on July 29. Mr Cullinanes remarks came after Fine Gael minister Paschal Donohoe said his party leader did all he could in engaging with health officials over the issue. Harveys parents, Gillian Sherratt and Stephen Morrison, learned last August that Harvey had been removed from Children Health Irelands (CHI) scoliosis waiting list without their knowledge. After they publicly raised their sons case, Harvey, from Clondalkin, received spinal surgery last December after waiting for years. By then, his spinal curve had reached the point where it could not be fully corrected. While he spent years on a waiting list, his spinal curve caused his rib cage to twist around his lungs and heart, severely restricting his breathing. While health minister in 2017, Mr Harris pledged that no child would wait more than four months for scoliosis treatment. Harveys mother and father have called for the Tanaistes resignation, further criticising Mr Harris for not personally meeting with them prior to the death of their child. On Wednesday, Mr Donohoe said: Minister Harris, as minister and then as taoiseach and Tanaiste, when he became aware of the needs of the particular family in question here, did all he could in terms of engaging with the Department of Health, in terms of engaging with the HSE. Asked about those comments, Mr Cullinane told reporters on Thursday: I dont believe that Simon Harris can hold his head up and say he did everything he could. Because if he did, children would not be waiting longer than four months, he would have met the family and he would have ensured that whatever was necessary was being done to ensure Harvey got quicker access to care, that that was properly and fully communicated back to the family themselves, and that never happened. Mr Cullinane said the family felt abandoned as Mr Harris had not previously met with them. He added: So I believe that the sense of betrayal that they feel is heartfelt on their part and is justified on their part, given everything that Ive seen over the last number of years. Mr Cullinane said other families experiencing long waits for child spinal surgeries felt a sense of betrayal from Mr Harris and the Government. A spokesman for the Tanaiste said he spoke with Ms Sherratt on Wednesday and they agreed to meet in the near future. He has also sought a full multidisciplinary report on the timeline of care provided to Harvey. In a social media post, Ms Sherratt said she had tentatively agreed to meet Mr Harris but no date had been set. She said: We will have a specific list of things we will be demanding to protect the children that are still here and still depending on CHI Ireland for care. We wont accept anything less than what we are asking. Harvey had to compromise on his care for the entirety of his life and we wont be accepting any compromises now. We will continue to call for his resignation until such time that we have secured confirmation that these terms are being met. National Heritage Week is taking place from Saturday, August 16 until Sunday, August 24, with a plethora of activities and events in Leitrim to honour the week. The theme of this years National Heritage Week is Exploring Our Foundations, which invites people to delve into the building blocks of our heritage; not just the structures, but the landscapes and cultural activities that have shaped us. All events in Leitrim for National Heritage Week are free, with some requiring booking to secure your slot. There are events all over the county, leaving no one having to travel too far. Saturday, August 16 A celebration of the ORourkes of Leitrim will take place on Saturday at the Glens Centre, Manorhamilton at 7:30pm. The event will dig into the story of the ORourkes and medieval Ireland. Leitrim actor, author and director Seamus ORourke will start the evening with tales and reflections from his Leitrim upbringing, followed with conversations by Dr Kieran OConnor and Dr Sean O'Hoirebhard, who will be in conversation with archaeologist Neil Jackman. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Also on Saturday, August 16 is the unveiling of a bronze sculpture in honour of the Earl Grey Girls, who left from Carrick and Mohill Workhouses in 1849. This takes place at St Patrick's Hospital in Carrick-on-Shannon from 3pm to 5pm. READ NEXT: From Apples to Waterways: Leitrim's Organic Centre celebrates Heritage Week with free events Leitrim Women Through Time, a project by North Leitrim Womens Centre and Sceal Heritage, will have a pop-up Leitrim womens museum with a variety of objects from everyday rural womens lives in the Old Courthouse, Drumkeeran from 12pm to 3:30pm. Join researcher Peter Halligan and osteoarchaeologist Niamh Daly at Tailor McKeons Bar, Keshcarrigan at 2pm for a talk about the unlicensed excavation of the Sheebeg passage tomb in 1930, followed by a guided walk by Sam Moore from 3:15pm to 5pm. There will also be a Walking Through History event in Dromahair, starting at The Depot at 6pm, which will cover a visit to Creevelea Abbey, WB Yeats connection to Dromahair, O'Rourkes Banqueting Hall, and the Sligo Leitrim and North Cavan Railway. Sunday, August 17 The replica Cottage of Margaret of New Orleans will be open to the public on Sunday from 2pm to 5pm in Tully, Carrigallen. Margaret Gaffney-Haughrey left Tully for America at five years of age, where she eventually ran orphanages in New Orleans. Top fruit expert and apple enthusiast Phil Wheal will give a talk on the history of apples from their origins, including their place in Irish heritage and folklore, at the Organic Centre, Rossinver from 2pm to 3:30pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. READ NEXT: Renowned Leitrim musicians perform at Abbey Haven Care residents' summer party Monday, August 18 An exploration of the fashions and activities of a lady in the Regency will take place in Lough Rynn Castle from 7:30pm to 8:30pm, with discussions led by Dr Melissa Shiels. The talk will showcase the hair and beauty routines, and costume changes of wealthy Regency ladies going about their daily activities. Patricia OReily will present a talk and exhibition exploring the foundations of an Aran knitting cottage industry born in the late 1950s in a local community in South Leitrim. This will be held in Kilnagross National School, Carrick-on-Shannon from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Explore the decoration of church window interiors and the manipulation of light through their plain, stained and coloured glass windows with architectural researcher Una Surgrue and stained glass conservator Colette Langan at St Georges Church of Ireland, Carrick-on-Shannon from 7:30pm to 9pm. Tuesday, August 19 Leitrim Women Through Time will host another event in Ballinamore County Library from 7pm to 9pm, honouring Leitrim women who worked in local factories, with tea, cake and a chat about memories. Explore spoon carving and miniature wooden toy making with Steffi Otto from Heritage Crafts Alive at the Organic Centre, Rossinver from 11am to 3pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. READ NEXT: Dromahair to NYC: Leitrim filmmaker wins Best Student Film at New York International Film Awards Wednesday, August 20 Dr Kieran OConnor will be hosting a talk on The Castles of Ireland at Parkes Castle, Fivemilebourne at 2pm. Booking is advised by contacting Parke's Castle on 071 9164149. Learn about our wildflower meadows and how to save seeds from our native wildflowers with Yosef Dvores in the meadow across from St. Clare's Catholic Church, Manorhamilton from 6pm to 7:30pm. Thursday, August 21 Talamh Beo are hosting a series of farm walks across Ireland and will be doing a two-hour walk at Leitrim Hill Creamery, Drumcong from 11am to 1pm, focusing on natural heritage, agroecology and local food systems. Friday, August 22 Enjoy Baroque and Traditional Music at Parkes Castle, Fivemilebourne, with doors opening at 6:30pm. Members of Sligo Baroque Orchestra will present works from the 17th and early 18th centuries, with June McCormack on flute and Michael Rooney on harp. Bookings can be made by contacting Parkes Castle on 071 9164149. Explore the sustainable foundations of our woollen history at the Organic Centre, Rossinver, with a workshop on handspinning fleece to fabric from 1pm to 3pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. Leitrim County Council will be launching the ORourkes Trail: A Touring Map of County Leitrim at Dromahair Public Library from 3pm to 3:45pm. The map brings the story of the ORourke clan to life through eleven key sites across the county. READ NEXT: Carrick RFC Summer Camp 2025- three days of fun, friendship & rugby skills Sunday, August 24 Take part in a deeply immersive, sound-based meditation experience with a gong bath at Parkes Castle, Fivemilebourne, from 8:30am to 9:30am and 6pm to 7pm with Marielle. This is for over 18 years of age only and can be booked by contacting Parkes Castle on 071 9164149. Cavan and Leitrim Railway will have a range of locomotives and exhibits in operation and display for members of the public at Cavan and Leitrim Railway Museum in Dromod from 1pm to 4:30pm. There will be a fully guided tour and heritage train. Go on a Voyage Around the Islands of Lough Gill on The Rose of Innisfree Waterbus, meeting at Parkes Castle, Fivemilebourne, at 10:30am and returning at 12pm. Can be booked by contacting Parkes Castle on 071 9164149. Kiltyclogher Heritage Centre will host a riparian under-canopy walk and talk along an unnamed stream, with citizen scientist kick sampling, childrens art workshop, and refreshments from 1pm to 3pm. Contact the centre on 071 9854865 to register. READ NEXT: Drones deployed in Longford as search intensifies for missing Leitrim man Yosef Dvores will be at the Organic Centre, Rossinver, for a water sampling workshop in the Ballagh River, where you can find out how you can play a role in protecting our most precious resource. This takes place from 11am to 12pm and 1pm to 2pm. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. The losses of the invaders during the day amounted to 990 personnnel and 229 units of equipment, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has reported in a summary as of 7:00 on Thursday. In particular, Ukrainian soldiers destroyed five tanks, three armored combat vehicles, 29 artillery systems, one MLRS, 191 units of automotive equipment and tanker trucks. Air strikes cost the enemy 191 UAVs of the operational-tactical level. Police officers and partisans of the CDC face-off at the partys headquarters in Congo Town in August of last year THE POPULAR fashion-jewellery retailer Claire's, best known for selling colourful necklaces and bracelets aimed at the pre-teen and teenage market, has entered administration. The company, which operates 28 stores here, employs several hundred people across Ireland and nearly 2,000 in the UK. Limerick has two Claire's stores - one is located on Cruises Street in the city centre, while the second is located in the Crescent Shopping Centre in Dooradoyle. The US owners of the retailer confirmed the appointment of administrators - in the UK and Ireland - following their August 6 bankruptcy filing in the United States, with CEO Chris Cramer calling the decision to officially file a "difficult but a necessary one." The owners say they have filed a formal notice to administrators from advisory firm Interpath, which has confirmed the appointment of Will Wright and Chris Pole as joint administrators (for the UK & Ireland). READ NEXT: National Heritage Week brings a "vibrant array" of events to Limerick The development, which will be a major concern to workers, comes as the company has experienced a drop in sales in the wake of weaker levels of consumer demand. As of now, Claire's stores across Ireland and the UK will remain open according to the joint administrators. However, the future for the 306 stores (across both countries) remains uncertain. The administrators say that while the chain's physical stores are still open for business, the company has ceased offering online shopping services. Any orders dispatched prior to the appointment of the administrator's will be delivered to customers as normal, however any orders that were placed but were not yet dispatched from the warehouse, will not be delivered. The administrators have assured customers they will not be charged for any orders that have been placed but which have not been dispatched. Customers of Claire's are being advised that the administrators will be unable to provide any refunds to items bought prior to their appointment. Interpath has assured workers at Claire's they will be made aware of "further information about what administration means for them." READ NEXT: Green light for Foynes to Limerick road following purchase of land Interpath Chief Executive and joint administrator, Will Wright, explained: "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 the options for the company." Mr Wright said one possibility that remains open is a possible sale (of the company) which, he said, "would secure a future for this well loved brand." This is the second time that Claire's has filed for bankruptcy in recent years, having filed in 2018 and exiting Chapter 11 bankruptcy (in the United States) in 2022. Owned by a group of investment firms, the company last week blamed "increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from 'brick-and-mortar' retail" for the decision to refile for bankruptcy as well as "debt obligations" to up to 50,000 creditors. Claire's Chief Executive, and joint administrator, Chris Cramer, commented: "This decision, while difficult, is part of our broader effort to protect the long-term value of Claire's across all markets. Taking this step now will allow us to continue to trade the business while we explore the best possible path forward." He added: "We are deeply grateful to our customers during this challenging period." COMMUNITIES across Limerick are set to benefit from improved connectivity following the approval of the purchase of land for the Foynes to Limerick road. Mayor of Limerick, John Moran has signed a Mayoral Order for the purchase of land to deliver the road which will provide a motorway upgrade from Rathkeale to Attyflin. He commented: "As Mayor of Limerick, I am pleased to confirm the signing of a number of new Mayoral Orders this week that each mark real steps forward for communities across the city and county in the areas of housing, tourism and transport." "This set of orders are related to the advancement of the Shannon Estuary growth triangle and will help to advance the road beyond Adare, all the way to Foynes." READ MORE: Three significant projects move forward with support of Limerick mayor Mayor Moran continued: "The project is 35km in length, and will connect the Core Port of Foynes to the motorway network near Limerick." "I want to thank the team within the Transport Directorate in Limerick City and County Council for their continued focus on delivery." FEARS over the closure of a much-loved County Limerick pub have turned into a very expensive round for a number of locals. A total of 25 men, and one woman, have joined together to invest 300,000 to keep the doors of their village pub open. Most put in 15,000 of their hard-earned money, with some going halves on that sum. READ NEXT: Blood, sweat and tears go into Limerick's first black pudding festival When Aherns pub in Kilteely came on the market earlier this year, there were initially fears that it spelled the end for the well-known licensed premises. Limerick has the highest pub closure rate in Ireland with 178 fewer pubs than in 2005. However, the group put their heads, and wallets, together to ensure it remained as a public house. The 26 are drawn from all walks of life - from farmers to lawyers, and from tradesmen to accountants - but not one publican amongst them! However, this hasnt stopped them getting the bar ready for their first night trading this Saturday, August 16. The new name of the pub will be revealed on the night. The group is comprised of people whose families have lived in the locality for generations, together with newcomers to the area. All wish to see the village and the local community thrive and develop to its full potential. Noel ODea, one of five directors, said their tagline is comhphobal ag obair le cheile - a community working together. We have witnessed the loss of two shops, two pubs, two post offices and a creamery in the locality in the recent past and we are well aware that once they are gone, you cant just bring them back, we are determined to ensure that it won't happen this time, said Mr ODea. One of the solicitors who acted in the sale is even a Kilteely-Dromkeen native, Brendan Gill, of Maurice Power Solicitors LLP. Fellow member of the legal fraternity and another one of the groups directors, barrister Liam Carroll said: Its great that we could make it happen. We took the view that every community needs a place to come together. It was great to see so many people willing to back the plan with their own money. The group paid tribute to the former owners, the Ahern family, and to Noreen Ahern, who is retiring after 40 years of wonderful service to the local community. Work is ongoing to develop an operational model to ensure the pub continues to thrive, with the syndicate considering various additional options including providing accommodation, a community shop or a cafe. But, first and foremost, the group of 26 look forward to welcoming people from near and far to Kilteely on Saturday. Thanks to them, it isnt last orders for good at the historic Limerick tavern. A SECTION of the N20 Limerick to Cork road has been closed following a serious road traffic collision this Thursday morning. Emergency services - gardai, firefighters from Kilmallock and Rathkeale and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service - all rushed to the scene near Croom. READ MORE: Asian man living in Limerick became 'target of online hate' amid false Facebook allegations The incident, believed to be a head-on collision, occurred at around 7.30am. The extent of the injuries suffered by the occupants of the vehicles is not known at this time. Gardai have posted on social media: Gardai and emergency services are currently attending a road traffic collision on the N20 at Ballyouragan, just after Croom towards Limerick City. The road is closed and local diversions are in place. Traffic delays have been reported. It is expected that the road will be closed for a large part of the day as the scene has been preserved for technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. It is the second serious collision on that stretch of road in just over two weeks. A single-vehicle collision involving a motorcycle occurred on the N20 in the townland of Ballyfookoon between Croom and Patrickswell on July 29. More to follow The father of an eight-year-old Mayo girl who died in a traffic accident along with her mother following a collision with a lorry told the driver he does not hold him responsible for the tragedy. In a letter which was read out at the inquest of Aisling Moore (46) of 11 Cois Coille, Kilkelly Road, Swinford and her daughter, Abbigael Tournie Moore (8), Arnaud Tournie stated he wanted to extend his heartfelt support to the lorry driver, Martin Crean and did not wish him to be consumed by guilt. Verdicts of accidental death were recorded into the deaths of both Aisling and Abbigael who both died when their car was struck by a lorry while travelling along the N26 at between Foxford and Swinford at Callow on July 2, 2024. The inquest heard evidence which described how Ms Moore's car failed to take a turn while travelling towards Swinford at around 5.30pm and started to veer into the direction of Mr Crean's Scania articulated lorry which was travelling in the opposite direction. Mr Crean braked hard to avoid a collision but as he did the lorry jack-knifed into Ms Moore's Toyota Avensis and caused extension damage. Both Ms Moore and her daughter, who were the only occupants of the car, suffered extensive injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. READ: Meet the Mayo woman aiming to build Westport out of Lego Dr Eleanor Fitzgerald, Coroner for the district of Mayo, told the inquest that she received a letter from Mr Tournie which he asked to be read to the inquest which took place this morning in Ballina courthouse. In it he stated that he writes the letter 'with the full weight of a father's sorrow' but also 'with a sincere desire' to offer Mr Crean 'some comfort'. No words can express the depth of my grief. Yet, despite this immense pain, I want you to know that I do not hold you responsible for this tragedy. I understand how deeply such an event can mark the life of someone who, through no fault of their own, becomes part of it. That is why I want to extend my heartfelt support to you. I know you must carry this image with you every day, and that it cannot be easy for you or your loved ones. I do not want you to be consumed by guilt, because this accident was neither the result of negligence nor of any wrongdoing on your part. You did what you could, and no one is ever truly prepared for such a moment. It is a tragedy unfathomable and unfair for all of us. Please receive these words as a gesture of compassion, of humanity, and, I hope, a small measure of solace. I wish you, with time, the inner peace needed to move forward and to honour, in your own way, the memory of these two beautiful souls taken too soon, he wrote. Without warning The inquest heard that Ms Moore and Abbigael had spent a few days in the Ocean Sands Hotel in Enniscrone and were returning to their home in Swinford to prepare for Abbigael to spend time with her father in France. Martin Crean from Ballina told the inquest he worked for West Coast Express as a lorry driver and on the day had been making deliveries around parts of east Mayo. He was driving a Scania lorry and pulling a 45 foot trailer which weighed around ten to 15 tonnes. He explained he left Kiltimagh at 5.05pm and had gone through Swinford when he came towards a bend in the road around Callow. He said he was travelling at approximately 80km per hour when a car came around the bend and without warning came onto his side of the road. He said he braked hard and believed the car which clipped the grass verge was trying to get onto its correct side of the road. He said when they collected he pushed the car back and they came to a stop on the grass verge on the other side of the road. Mr Crean said he was shocked and stunned but was uninjured. Coroner for Mayo, Dr Eleanor Fitzgerald PJ Wall, who was travelling behind Ms Moore's car explained that she failed to take a left hand bend and veered onto the incorrect side of the road and ended up in front of a lorry. He said the lorry jack-knifed and pushed the car into the ditch. He said there was no response from anyone in the car. When asked by Dr Fitzgerald, Mr Wall described the bend as mild and there was no reason why the car veered into the incorrect side of the road. Adrian Finnergan, an advanced paramedic, told the inquest he arrived at the scene at around 6.01pm and explained that he could not access the car due to the damage. With the assistance of fire service, he managed to enter the car and pronounced both occupants dead at 6.08pm. The inquest was told that both vehicles were examined and both were in perfect working condition at the time of the collision. Garda John Naughton who examined the scene and the collision explained that the conditions were dry at the time and there were no breaches according to Mr Crean's tachograph. He said it also showed that at the time of the collision, Mr Crean was travelling at 43km per hour. Jack-knifed Garda Naughton told Dr Fitzgerald that the collision occurred on Ms Moore's side of the road and this illustrated that she managed to get back onto her correct side. However, he said that as a result of the hard braking, the lorry jack-knifed and went into the path of the Toyota car. He said there was no way Mr Crean could recover the lorry when it jack-knifed. Sergeant John Melia explained that Mr Crean was tested for alcohol and drugs following the accident and found to be negative for both. Dr Tomas Nemeth, pathologist in Mayo University Hospital explained that the post mortem results showed that Ms Moore died as a result of extensive fatal injuries including multiple fractures while Abbigael died as a result of extensive injuries. Dr Fitzgerald expressed her sympathy to Mr Tournie and the Moore family and recorded verdicts of accidental death in both cases. She said that nobody will know why Ms Moore's car veered onto the incorrect side of the road but hoped the family would get comfort in knowing she did not suffer as death would have been almost instant. She also expressed sympathy with Mr Crean and hoped he takes comfort in Mr Tournie's letter and knows he is not to blame. Court presenter, Sergeant Sean McHale also expressed sympathy to Mr Tournie and the Moore family along with Mr Crean and commended members of the public and the emergency services for their help on the day. LIMERICK has a vibrant array of events planned this week as National Heritage Week 2025 kicks off. The celebrations will be taking place from Saturday, August 16 to Sunday, August 24 across the city and county. A range of free events will be available for locals and visitors alike, from hands-on workshops and nature walks to historical tours, artistic showcases and a street party where you can learn to dance the Walls of Limerick. Limerick County Council Heritage officer Tom O'Neill, said; National Heritage Week 2025 in Limerick is a chance to reconnect with our landscapes, our stories, and the skills and traditions that continue to shape our county. From blacksmithing in Cappamore to lace-making in the city and archaeology hands-on workshops, this year's events offer something for everyone. This years theme, Exploring Our Foundations, feels especially fitting as we reflect on everything from the stone-carving of our ancestors to the banks of the Ardagh River. Participants can trace the story of biodiversity at Griston Bog or listen to the sweet sound of a newly restored Victorian pipe organ in Doon. Heritage Week is not just about looking back. Its about carrying forward the stories, skills, and a deep respect for the place we call home. I encourage everyone across Limerick to take part, share what you know, and discover something new along. On Saturday morning, Limerick City Library will be hosting The Fine Art of Limerick Lace: A Pop-Up Showcase at 10am, while a nature walk will take place in the Barnagh Tunnel at 11am. READ MORE: Scouting Irelands Phoenix Challenge marks 20 years in Limerick At 6.30pm, the heritage of the Victorian Pipe Organ will be celebrated at St Patricks Parish Church, Doon. Stories in Stone: A Self-Guided Tour of the Hunt Collection will run from Saturday, August 16 to Sunday, August 24, excluding Monday, August 18. On Sunday, August 17, you can dance the Walls of Limerick in Irishtown at 2pm as part of Irishtown Heritage Fest, before learning the basics of blacksmithing at 9am in Cappamore from Monday, August 18 to Thursday, August 21. Monday features a guided tour of Foynes Architectural Conservation Area & Flying Boat Museum at 2pm, Wednesday has an art class with Kathy Tiernan at 2pm in Croom, and Thursday offers a basket weaving demonstration at 1pm in Croom Civic Centre. On Friday evening, you can explore your family tree with Askeaton Genealogy Centre at 6pm, or go on the Askeaton Ballysteen Natural Heritage River Walk at 6.30pm. You can also explore the built heritage of Limerick citys waterways on Saturday, August 23 at 10am. All events are free of charge, and many are suitable for families and children. You can explore the full programme of events at Limerick.ie/heritage-week. The Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW) has detained a Ukrainian citizen who, on the orders of foreign intelligence, committed acts of sabotage, Minister-Coordinator of Special Services Tomasz Siemoniak said on X on Wednesday. "The ABW and the police have detained a 17-year-old Ukrainian citizen who, on the orders of foreign special services, was looting monuments to UPA victims... and public buildings with anti-Polish inscriptions," Siemoniak wrote on X, adding that these actions were aimed at "inciting tension between Poles and Ukrainians." Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also commented on the Ukrainian's detention on Wednesday. According to TVN 24, Tusk spoke about this at a press conference "after a series of meetings of the country's leaders on achieving peace in Ukraine." "Provoking conflicts or enmity between Ukrainians and Poles is very often the result of actions by foreign intelligence services," Tusk was quoted as saying by TVN 24. According to Tusk, this is not the first case of such detention. "This young Ukrainian was recruited by a foreign intelligence service. There is no better gift for Russians," Tusk added. "Let us remember that in almost every such case, it is Russia that is behind attempts to stir up conflicts and anti-Polish emotions in Ukraine and anti-Ukrainian emotions in Poland," Tusk stressed. Darwinbox, the human capital management (HCM) and planning platform, has raised $40 million from Teachers Venture Growth (TVG), the late-stage venture and growth investment arm of the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan. HR tech, when done right, can unlock outsized value for every enterprise, yet the old guard of HCM vendors still falls short of that leap, said Darwinbox co-founder Jayant Paleti in a prepared statement. Darwinbox exists to change that story, building the next-gen HCM company, global by design, AIfirst at the core, and relentlessly focused on customer outcomes. The new round of funding saw TVG acquire a stake in Darwinbox through a mix of primary and secondary transactions. The latest round of investment brings the company's total funding to $320 million. Darwinbox plans to use the funds to further boost its presence in North America, which it entered in 2022. The company says that since its entry into that market, its business there has grown three times year-on-year. In the North American region, Darwinbox's clients include companies like WeWork, Zara, Adidas, and Starbucks. With TVG's investment, the company joins the ranks of several marquee investors on Darwinbox's capitalisation table, including Microsoft, Salesforce, Peak XV Partners, Lightspeed and TCV. We look forward to bringing our global network and expertise to support the companys future growth, said Darius Vakil, director of TVG in India. The new round of funds comes shortly after the company's $140 million fundraising in March, which was led by Swiss private equity firm Partners Group and New York-based KKR. Mint was the first to report that the two investors were nearing a deal to fund the HR tech startup with between $120 million and $150 million. Teachers' Venture Growth is part of the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board, a global investor that primarily invests in real estate, infrastructure, and natural resources. On the other hand, Ontario Teachers Pension uses TVG to invest in tech-first companies. The fund's investments in India include B2B finance tech company Perfios, supply chain financing solutions provider for SMEs Mintifi, and B2C logistics provider XpressBees. Also Read | KKR, Partners Group to lead Darwinbox funding round Mumbai: Hindustan Unilever Ltd, Marico Ltd, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd, and other consumer goods companies are allocating 30-50% of their media budgets for online advertising, in a strategic shift away from traditional media such as television. For Dabur India Ltd, digital is now a core pillar of its media strategy, accounting for over 30% of its advertising spending currently, up from about 10% in 2020-21. In FY25, the consumer goods company spent 864.6 crore, or 6.9% of its 12,563 crore consolidated revenue from operations, on advertising and publicity. This shift mirrors where our consumers are. They are spending more time on mobile, OTT (video streaming platforms), and increasingly on connected TV, which is emerging as a high-impact medium for reaching premium and urban audiences," said Rajiv Dubey, head of media at Dabur India. Digital offers us sharper targeting, real-time measurement, and seamless integration with e-commerce and quick-commerce, enabling a direct impact on sales," he added. Influencer marketing has also scaled rapidly, with the number of influencer-led campaigns at Dabur growing over 2.5 times in the last three years, spanning macro, micro, and regional creators." A large portion of overall media spending in India is now online, fueled by the proliferation of smartphones and increased access to cheaper data, which allows more consumers to browse content online. In 2024, digital media accounted for 60% of all ad revenue, according to recent estimates by media buying company GroupM. Televisions share of advertising revenues stood at 26%, a small decline from the year prior, while print accounted for 10%. Overall, GroupM expects Indian advertising to grow by 7% in 2025 to reach 1,64,137 crore, adding an incremental 10,730 crore. Key Takeaways Major Indian FMCG companies are increasingly allocating significant portions of their ad budgets (30-50%) to digital channels, reflecting where consumers spend their time. Influencer-led campaigns and data-driven targeting are becoming core strategies, helping brands reach both urban and rural audiences more effectively. Traditional TV and print are declining in share, while connected TV, social media, and e-commerce integration allow brands to measure impact in real time and optimize ad spend. Where consumers go More than half of Hindustan Unilevers media spending is now online, with a large portion allocated to social media promotions, former chief executive Rohit Jawa said following the consumer goods giants earnings announcement last month. We are going where the consumers are going, if they watch more social media, we go there. If they watch more media on digital platforms, we go there. So we go where the eyeballs go," he said. Our intention is to follow the viewer and to be competitive on the aggregate in terms of our share of voice. That means we have to change the way we do marketing and brand content." On a consolidated basis, the maker of Lux soaps and Kissan sauces, spent 6,199 crore on advertising and promotions in FY25. HULs strategy isnt limited to urban markets but also aimed at reaching consumers in rural areas, Jawa said. Its not just an urban thing; influencers are in rural areas also. For brands like Wheel (detergent), we are testing influencers or even using digital channels like YouTube." Also Read | How employees are turning into in-house influencers for brands Other fast-moving consumer goods companies (FMCG) too are engaging influencers to reach consumers on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, taking the fight to online-first or direct-to-consumer brands, some of which rely solely on social media to sell their products. Media monies have always chased eyeballs. There was a time when advertising was print-heavy, then it moved to TV, and now its digital because thats where the consumption is," said Shantanu Sirohi, CEO, Interactive Avenues, the digital agency under the IPG Mediabrands, a media and marketing services company. Digital isnt just one thing but within that 7-10 things," he said. As a result, digital is more cost-effective as an advertising medium. Television, on the other hand, has become more fragmented with more regional channels and options. If companies wish to chase larger volumes and make a big impact, the number of large shows or properties where brands can go big are limited (say, the Indian Premier League or Kaun Banega Crorepati).," he added. Also Read | Regional creators battle bias in ad rates, algorithms No one media model Among other large FMCG companies, Godrej Consumer Products too has increased its spending on digital mediafrom 5-6% of its overall media spending pre-covid to 20-25% now. Many global markets we operate in may have higher digital spends. In India, we are roughly about three-fourths on TV and one-fourth on digital. A lot of the digital spending is actually on connected TV," said Ashwin Moorthy, global head of marketing, India, at Godrej Consumer Products. Connected TV refers to any television set that connects to the internet, allowing users access to video streaming platforms. We realize today that theres no one media model. The view we have taken is [that] we need to look at media from the perspective of where the consumer is likely to be exposed to an ad in the most impactful way at the cheapest possible cost," Moorthy said. Also Read | Rural India driving FMCG sales, small packs rule The company, which sells brands such as Cinthol soaps and Hit mosquito repellant, spent 1,020.22 crore on advertising and publicity in FY25. Maricos digital media spending has also increased substantially from a few years ago to 30% now, according to the company. Some of our brands like Livon (haircare brand) will have a far greater majority of spending online versus a brand like Saffola (edible oil," said Saugata Gupta, managing director and CEO. This doesnt include the digital-first brands (such as PureSense for skincare and CocoSoul for hair) where 100% of spending is digital," Gupta added. If I add the digital brands, we will be one of the biggest digital spenders because those brands have a high A2S (advertising-to-sales ratio) and they have high gross margins." (Bloomberg) -- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been granted an extension after failing to fully divest all his assets in compliance with an ethics agreement, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg. The Office of Government Ethics, or OGE, gave Bessent until Dec. 15 to complete the divestiture of assets he identified ahead of his confirmation by the Senate earlier this year. A Treasury spokesperson said the date was mutually agreed upon by Bessent, the office of Treasury ethics and OGE. Bessent said in a statement that those remaining assets represent 4% of his required divestitures and that he is working toward selling them before the end of the year. He said much of the remaining assets are farmland, an inherently illiquid asset. Serving President Trump and the American people is the honor of a lifetime, Bessent said in an emailed statement. I gladly divested from more than 90% of the assets I was required to sell before I even assumed office. I am committed to full transparency and disclosure in my personal finances, he said. Bessent, a former hedge fund manager, was nominated by Trump in November 2024 and confirmed by the Senate on January 28. He disclosed assets worth at least $521 million in his personal financial disclosure, which was made public by OGE ahead of his confirmation hearing. The total value of his portfolio is potentially worth far more, as nominees list the value of their assets within broad ranges that top out at over $50,000,000. The Treasury secretarys failure to fully divest by an earlier deadline in April was cited in a letter sent Monday by OGE to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, signed by the agencys Deputy Director for Compliance Dale Christopher. Christopher subsequently wrote to Crapo again Wednesday, setting out the December timeline and saying that Bessent will continue to recuse himself from matters that could involve the undivested assets. A Treasury spokesperson said Bessent has already divested from 96% of the assets slated to be sold by the end of the year and that more than 90% of the $1 billion in total divestitures were made before January 20. Treasury ethics officials said Bessents remaining undivested assets are illiquid and are not readily marketable, the second Christopher letter reads, in part. They add that excluding the farmlands, the assets also have significant restrictions on who can acquire them. The letters were first reported by the New York Times. Bessent has made reference in public appearances to the farmland he owns in North Dakota, sometimes referring to himself as a farmer or saying that he listens to farm radio. In addition to the farmland, he has also disclosed stakes in a private equity fund, a privately held sparkling water company and a privately held clinical stage drug development company. --With assistance from Bill Allison. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com (Bloomberg) -- UK billionaire Michael Spencer has hired a Schroders Plc veteran to lead his family office, expanding the investing capabilities of the firm managing one of Britains biggest fortunes. Simon Brazier, 50, who previously worked at Schroders for more than a decade, becomes chief executive officer from Aug. 18 of the Nex Group founders personal investment firm, known as IPGL, according to a statement. The British native, a longtime fund manager, replaces Seth Johnson, a 57 year-old former Nex executive who stepped into the CEO role at IPGL after a predecessor departed within six months of joining in 2023 due to personal reasons. Brazier, Johnson and Spencer will initially work together in a transition period at IPGL, which disclosed net assets of 995.2 million ($1.4 billion) in its latest annual accounts and has stakes in companies including wine-maker Chapel Down Group Plc and cybersecurity firm Glasswall. Why Billionaires Have Family Offices and What They Do: QuickTake The leadership shakeup shows how Spencer is hiring outside the finance empire he built over the past four decades to take charge of a firm that ranks among Londons biggest family offices, controlling stakes in more than a dozen companies worldwide. IPGLs leaders have often worked before with Spencer, who made his fortune through ICAP Plc NEXs predecessor company and turned it into the worlds biggest broker of deals between banks. Brazier is a natural leader with deep investment insight, sound judgement, and a strong ethical compass, Spencer, 70, said. He brings a long-term view and a proven ability to lead teams and generate value. The family offices finance chief, Karina Curtis, previously worked at ICAP, where former CEO Samantha Wren similarly spent almost a decade of her career in senior roles. Piers Davison, a former JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Citigroup Inc. banker who advised on some of Spencers biggest transactions in the past, also became a non-executive director of IPGL in late 2024. Outgoing CEO Johnson has worked with the UK billionaire for more than three decades. Spencer, a former Conservative Party treasurer, sold Nex to CME Group Inc. in 2018 in a deal that valued the UK firm at 3.9 billion. Brazier, a University of Durham Economics and French graduate, started working at Schroders in the late 1990s and later helped lead the firms UK equity funds, according to his LinkedIn profile. He moved to Threadneedle Investments in 2009, where he served as head of UK equities and oversaw a roughly 2 billion fund before Investec Plcs asset-management arm at the time recruited him for a similar role about a decade ago, his most recent money-management position. --With assistance from Andrea Felsted. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com The Saket sessions court in Delhi on Thursday ordered summons to cigarette maker Godfrey Phillips India's (GPI) former director Samir Kumar Modi in a defamation case filed by two of the companys seven independent directors. Additional sessions judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan set aside the trial courts 19 May order dismissing the complaint and directed the lower court to proceed with summoning Modi. Considering the aforesaid appreciation of the facts and circumstances of this case and also the case laws, the impugned order dated 19.05.2025 passed by the learned trial court stands set aside. The present revision petition stands allowed the trial court is directed to summon the accused/respondent and proceed further as per law," the court said in its order, a copy of which was seen by Mint. Boardroom clash The dispute stems from a boardroom clash at GPI in May 2024, during which Modi alleged he was assaulted. Independent directors Atul Kumar Gupta and Nirmala Bagri accuse him of defaming them by publicly claiming they had consented to the alleged assault. The other independent directors are Lalit Bhasin, Ajay Vohra, Avtar Singh Monga, Sumant Bharadwaj, and Subramanian Lakshminarayanan. Modi, the youngest of three children of the late business tycoon K.K. Modiand brother to former IPL chief Lalit Modi and sister Charu Modiwas removed from the board on 7 August 2024. GPI is a key player in Indias tobacco market and partners with Marlboro-maker Philip Morris. Lalit Samir have differed with mother Bina Modi, who heads the board of Godfrey Phillips. Samir was removed from the board of the company last year while Bina Modi was re-elected as the chairman and managing director of the company. Samir had accused the board members of colluding to arrange an assault on him as he was trying to attend a key board meeting in May last year. Defamation case According to the complaint, the events unfolded on 30 May 2024 when an audit committee meeting was underway ahead of a scheduled board meeting. Modi, then an executive director but not a member of the committee, allegedly got into a heated argument with a security officer outside the meeting room. To avoid disruption, senior board members invited him in, where he allegedly shouted angrily and banged folders on the table. Despite the incident, the meeting concluded, and Modi later participated in the board meeting without signs of injury. Later On 1 June 2024, The Economic Times published an interview in which Modi alleged that the complainants and other board members orchestrated a planned attack" to stop him from attending the meeting. The directors deny the charge, citing CCTV footage showing Modi as the aggressor, and claim the remarks were false, scandalous, and intended to damage their reputations. They say that Smir Modi's statements created a false impression that they condoned or arranged an assault, causing them social, professional, and reputational harm prompting them to approach the court. The defamation complaint under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code was filed in November 2024. The trial court dismissed it in May 2025, prompting the directors to seek revision before the sessions court. Sessions Courts Findings The sessions court noted that the Economic Times interview contained allegations harmful to the complainants, who were easily identifiable as public figures and board members of a well-known company. The complainants had submitted the article with a Section 65B certificate and named the reporter as a witness. The court further observed that defamation can be directed at identifiable groups, such as a companys board members. It ruled that the trial court had erred by assuming the existence of other litigation was sufficient grounds for dismissal and by denying the complainants the opportunity to present their witnesses. Section 65B allows electronic recordssuch as emails, scanned copies, or web pagesto be accepted as evidence in court, provided they come with a certificate confirming their authenticity and how they were produced. New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): IndiGo is prepared to restart its flights from India to China as soon as the necessary bilateral agreements between the two countries are in place, the airline's chief executive Pieter Elbers said on Thursday. "IndiGo operated daily flights between India and China prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline stands ready to resume these services as soon as bilateral arrangements between the two countries allow. Guided by its entrepreneurial spirit, IndiGo remains committed to identifying and pursuing commercially viable opportunities," Elbers said in a statement. The carrier had run daily services between Delhi and Chengdu before the pandemic, alongside Bengaluru-Hong Kong flights, which were in operation until February 1, 2020. These routes, along with other connections to China, were halted in early 2020 when the Covid-19 outbreak triggered global travel restrictions. Air India also suspended its China operations during the same period. While the pandemic caused the immediate suspension of flights, tensions between New Delhi and Beijing added another layer of difficulty. Diplomatic and economic ties deteriorated sharply after the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020 between Indian and Chinese armed forces. The confrontation marked one of the most serious border incidents in decades, leading to strained relations for nearly four years. It was only in October 2024 that both sides reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control, a step seen as easing some of the long-standing tensions. However, despite the diplomatic thaw, direct commercial flights between India and China were not resumed. Japanese advertising company Dentsu Group Inc. said it will cut about 3,400 jobs in markets outside of Japan, equivalent of 8% of headcount in the region according to a statement Thursday. The company is mulling options including forming partnership for overseas operations, it said. President Donald Trumps move to extract a 15% sales tax from Nvidia Corp. on certain semiconductors sold in China did nothing to damp investor enthusiasm for the worlds most valuable company. A look at balance-sheet math goes a long way to explaining why. In the first quarter, Nvidia said it sold $5.5 billion in products to China, roughly 13% of its total. The chips exposed to the Trump tax accounted for about 80% of that, or just under $5 billion. That means the Santa Clara, California-based firm could send some $700 million per quarter to the Treasury hardly chump change. But for a company that churns out $20 billion in profit a quarter and increases sales by a similar amount - a rate of growth its sustained throughout the AI boom paying the tax barely registers. I dont think its that big of an issue, said Larry Tentarelli, founder of Blue Chip Daily. If it was their overall revenue base, it would be a big problem. But because China is not the biggest proportion of their revenues, its a speed bump. Nvidia shares slipped Monday after the tax was disclosed, then rallied to a fresh record Tuesday in a broad market advance. The chipmakers shares have doubled since early April, pushing its market value past $4.4 trillion. Similarly, AMD, which agreed to the same tax, closed at the highest in more than a year on Wednesday, bringing year-to-date gains to 53%. Nvidia reports second quarter earnings on Aug. 27. Analysts expect it will report earnings growth of 44% on a 53% surge in revenue to $45.9 billion. Thats not to say the clouds have completely lifted in China. Bloomberg News reported this week that Beijing has encouraged local firms to avoid using Nvidias chips a move that could limit sales. And worries abound that chipmakers will increasingly become ensnared in federal trade policy or that China could make a more formal recommendation to ban certain US chips altogether. It is a hard game to know how this will play out. I would almost consider the stocks absent this news, said Michael Matousek, head trader at U.S. Global Investors Inc. If you already liked them, theres potential for upside from China, but there are risks this could change again. None of that, though, seems to register among investors betting that red-hot demand for AI infrastructure will continue to burn. The trend has lifted shares of Nvidia from their April lows alongside Magnificent Seven peers deemed AI winners, including Meta Platforms Inc. and Microsoft Corp. The tax news is mostly empty calories, Citigroups Christopher Danely wrote in a note this week on AMD. We view this as not material given the low margins of these products, and these AI GPUs could be banned in China again. At Bernstein, analyst Stacy Rasgon worries about the precedent the Trump tax sets. The arrangement might raise some money, but doesnt seem to address any strategic issues beyond a grab for dollars, he wrote in a note published Aug. 11. Regardless, Nvidia shares will rise or fall on its ability to deliver sales of cutting-edge chips, most notably its Blackwell products. Whats more important is the trajectory of Blackwell and whether or not Blackwell is going to meet or exceed expectations, said Melissa Otto of Visible Alpha LLC. Thats what the market has priced in. Thats where we see the biggest uplift in demand and growth. And so that is ultimately what is going to drive the earnings expectations and valuation for the stock. That major question, along with the trade uncertainty and Nvidias rally do leave the shares exposed to profit-taking ahead of the Aug. 27 report. Im not going to bet on whether this stays a positive, said Alvin Nguyen, senior analyst at Forrester. There have been so many rapid changes, theres still so much uncertainty, and we need to see stability in trade. Top Tech Stories Earnings Due Thursday With assistance from Subrat Patnaik and David Watkins. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Chinese developer Road King Infrastructure Ltd. is suspending all offshore debt payments, a reversal from a couple of months ago when it said it expected to have enough cash to pay interest on borrowings this year. The company said it should explore a holistic solution to the situation, according to an exchange filing, a term that usually points to a debt restructuring. The statement came after the developer failed to make interest payments on a $434.7 million bond within a 30-day grace period, something that would typically lead to a default. Road King in June had proposed changing certain terms of its existing bonds in an effort to ease liquidity pressure. At the time, it said it expected to have cash available for interest payments this year, but had concerns about next year. The proposed changes failed to win sufficient approval from creditors. Road Kings about-face signals a further deepening of Chinas years-long property crisis, which continues to roil developers. Just this week, state-backed China South City Holdings Ltd. was ordered to liquidate by a Hong Kong court, and news came that China Evergrande Group, once the countrys largest developer by sales, would have its Hong Kong stock delisted. Road King has about $1.5 billion of offshore debt, including bank debt and bonds, the company said in the filing. Its 5.2% dollar notes due in 2029 fell 2.3 cents to 19.4 cents on Wednesday, the lowest level since April 2024, Bloomberg-compiled data show. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. (Bloomberg) -- The Philippine central bank has ordered mobile wallets, payment applications and other supervised institutions to remove links to online gambling platforms. The financial firms have 48 hours to take down icons redirecting to Internet betting, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Deputy Governor Mamerto Tangonan said at a Senate hearing on Thursday, citing a decision from the central banks policy-making Monetary Board. Senators are tackling proposals to either restrict or ban online gambling amid concerns over debt and addiction. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said a ban could stoke illegal online betting. E-wallets like GCash, owned by fintech unicorn Mynt and valued at $5 billion, have been instrumental in online gamblings growth, and legislators are trying to rein in the industry, which has flourished in recent years. On Thursday, Philippine online gaming leader DigiPlus Interactive Corp. said its profit jumped 30% to 4.2 billion pesos ($74 million) in the second quarter on new products. That brought first-half net income to 8.4 billion pesos, up 61% from a year ago, with revenue rising 47%. The companys performance reflects continued growth in its retail games segment, as well as contributions from new games and licenses, DigiPlus said. DigiPlus was the worlds best performing gaming stock in June before tighter regulations dampened investor sentiment, trimming its year-to-date gain to 6.6% as of Thursday. DigiPlus, which is set to replace Bloomberry Resorts Corp. in the Philippines benchmark stock index from next week, said the company remains committed to responsible business practices. --With assistance from Neil Jerome Morales. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com The meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Sir Keir Starmer, will take place on Thursday morning in London, where the Ukrainian head of state is on a visit, the BBC has reported. "This morning's high-level meeting between the leaders of the UK and Ukraine at 10 Downing Street will be a carefully coordinated show of support from the UK, scheduled just 24 hours before the summit in Alaska," the report says. The publication emphasizes that this will be "the last push to ensure that European demands are heard before Donald Trump meets Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine." It is noted that after a conversation on Wednesday with other European leaders, Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, Starmer said that Ukraine's territorial integrity must be protected and international borders should not be changed by force. He also said that "any ceasefire must be durable, and for this you need security guarantees," adding that this was the reason for the creation of the Coalition of the Willing, which has ready-made reliable military plans that could be used in the event of a ceasefire. Starmer, on the eve of Friday's summit between Trump and Vladimir Putin, says that there is a "real chance" of a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, the publication notes. As reported, 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 US President Donald Trump. This was followed by a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing," in which US Vice President J.D. Vance participated. (Bloomberg) -- Bank of Nova Scotia has carried out a series of layoffs in its US and Asia Pacific investment-banking divisions, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The Canadian lender cut a number of jobs this month, including multiple managing directors, and made major cuts to the US health-care team, said the people, who asked to not be identified discussing private information. We continue to remain focused on growing in the US. As part of our regular business planning process, we have made a limited number of personnel changes affecting a small group of employees, Scotiabank spokesperson Katie Raskina said in an emailed statement Wednesday. The changes reflect ongoing efforts to ensure that our teams are structured effectively to support our long-term business objectives. Scotiabank is also closing small investment-banking operations in Hong Kong and Australia, one of the people said. This strategic decision to align our business in Asia Pacific to our global strategy is not a reflection on the current market environment or our employees, Raskina said. We are being proactive and transparent with our employees and clients as we manage their needs through this transition. Under Chief Executive Officer Scott Thomson, Scotiabank has prioritized capital deployment to its businesses in Canada, the US and Mexico while re-evaluating international operations. Travis Machen, a former Morgan Stanley banker, took over as group head of Scotiabanks global banking and markets unit more than a year ago and has since recruited several high-level managers to his team. The bank hired former UBS Group AG executive Matt Eilers in April as global co-head of corporate and investment banking, based in New York. Eilers co-head is Dany Beauchemin, who is based in Toronto. Separately, Mark Mulroney, who had been vice chair in Scotiabanks global banking and markets division, left the firm this week for rival Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. Mulroney, son of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, is joining CIBC as global vice chair in the office of its chief executive officer in November. --With assistance from Linus Chua. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com ZURICH, - Switzerland's gold industry on Thursday voiced scepticism about a proposal by the boss of watchmaker Swatch to introduce a levy on gold exports to the United States in retaliation for U.S. tariffs on Switzerland. U.S. President Donald Trump last week imposed tariffs of 39% on imported Swiss goods, causing shock and dismay in the Alpine republic, a major refining and transit hub for gold. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection afterwards said Washington might put tariffs on the most widely-traded gold bullion bars in the United States. However, Trump said on Monday that gold would not face tariffs. Swatch CEO Nick Hayek told Swiss newspaper Blick that Trump's announcement indicated that tariffs on gold would be painful for the U.S. president. "Now is the time to go on the offensive. Switzerland should order a 39% export tax on gold bars for the United States," Hayek told the paper. "That's where we have to get at him. That's his Achilles' heel." The Swiss Association of Manufacturers and Traders in Precious Metals said that while ideas to better balance bilateral trade were welcome, careful consideration needed to be given to Switzerland's longer-term interests. "An export tax on Swiss gold destined for the USA would not only harm Switzerland economically, but also damage the reputation of a country that has consistently promoted and defended free trade," ASFCMP President Christoph Wild said. The Swiss Economy Ministry declined to comment on the proposal, but said the support of business representatives was in general welcome and helped underscore the close economic ties between the U.S. and Switzerland. Trump justified his 39% tariff by pointing to Switzerland's sizeable trade surplus with the United States. Part of that is due to gold exports. Hayek said that even if a gold levy failed to move Trump, it would cut the U.S. trade deficit with Switzerland. "If Trump doesn't give in to our pressure, we'll at least improve the trade balance with the U.S. if the Americans no longer import gold bars via Switzerland," he told Blick. Switzerland is continuing to hold talks with U.S. officials aimed at lowering the U.S. tariffs. (Bloomberg) -- Chinas biggest tech companies are bouncing back after years on the ropes with outsized ambitions to dominate in everything from robots and smart glasses to cheap meals. But investors want them to focus their spending where it counts AI. From Meta Platforms Inc. to Google, one topic has dominated the conversation this tech earnings season: how Silicon Valleys leaders will invest to seize the momentum in a game-changing technology. In China, the industry is just as enthralled by a three-way battle to deliver the cheapest meals and knick-knacks, fastest. That conflict between Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., JD.com Inc. and Meituan both on social media and in the physical consumer arena isnt just compressing margins and irking investors its risking Beijings scrutiny. So far this year JD, Alibaba and Meituan have pledged or spent billions of dollars hiring delivery people, creating coupons and plying their millions of daily users with advertising about free milk tea and other instant retail promotions. Investors responded with a sell-off in Meituan and JD, the most exposed to the price war, shedding around a combined $100 billion in market value since late last year. Things came to a head last month when the industry regulator called all three into a private meeting to lay down the law. And days later, the trio coordinated contrite statements promising to end disorderly competition. But in reality, theyve no choice but to keep going, analysts say, because theyre essentially fighting for the lifeblood of their business: users. With AI still years away from monetization, thats become the central existential problem to China Tech Inc. We want less food delivery wars, and more reasons to be optimistic about AI monetization, said Vey-Sern Ling, managing director at Union Bancaire Privee. Ultimately for tech companies to perform they have to deliver top line growth. Progress on the monetization of AI is one way whether directly, such as through the provision of cloud services or indirectly by enhancing their respective core businesses. After years of regulatory scrutiny and Covid-era disruption, the countrys biggest tech firms are once again ramping up deals and competing fiercely for users to propel growth. Investors have piled into Chinas tech resurgence over the past year, betting on the countrys biggest firms after a rapprochement with President Xi Jinpings government in February. Those companies are still trading far below their peak. The food wars didnt help. One outlier however has been Tencent its outperformed its biggest peers this summer. Tencent on Wednesday kicked off earnings season for Chinas big tech with revenue that beat estimates and a plan for prudence in AI spending, despite faster-than-anticipated growth across its gaming and advertising businesses. Its shares rose as much as 2.4% in Hong Kong on Thursday, reaching their highest level in more than four years. JD made a sudden foray into food delivery in February, sparking a price war with Alibaba and market leader Meituan. Its what Morgan Stanley refers to as the prisoners dilemma three heavyweights locked in a seemingly irrational conflict, none willing to blink first. After making early progress, JD is struggling to attract new users and investors are clamoring for clues about the direction behind the spending spree. Its very difficult to guess what JD wants to do. Theyve been all over the place doing various things, trying to spend a lot of money, but we do not know what they want to achieve, said Roxy Wong, senior portfolio manager at BNP Paribas Asset Management Asia Ltd. All of a sudden theyre doing everything at the same time. Alibabas margins are expected to take a toll from its massive spending plans, which include splashing $52 billion on AI infrastructure and forking out $7 billion on food delivery subsidies. Investors are also asking tough questions about its strategy. For Alibaba, food delivery business may not be that important, but when it comes to the battle, they cannot retreat, said Li Chengdong, head of Beijing-based internet think-tank Haitun. While the recent huge spending is definitely not what investors are keen to see, Alibabas investment in AI remains an uncertainty as well as the current investment may not necessarily yield results. Meituan is enjoying fresh momentum off the back of a partnership with Kuaishou, a Chinese live-streaming platform. But like JD its getting distracted at home as it looks to build an empire abroad. The companys successful Keeta app in Hong Kong has set a template for overseas moves. It launched in Saudi Arabia last September and according to Chinese media outlet LatePost, its now eyeing expansion into Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain over the next three years. The competition will stop when everyone returns to normal business judgment and rationality, Wang Puzhong, head of local commerce at Meituan, told LatePost last month. Right now we are all in a state of irrational excitement. Charlotte Yang, Claire Che More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com New Delhi: Nayara Energy on Thursday said its refinery operations and supply of its petroleum products across the country continue at a healthy run rate despite the sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU). Russia's Rosneft Oil Co.-backed company is engaging with various governmental authorities and partners for seamless transactions and to maintain operational stability, it said in a statement. Also Read | Nayara Energy withdraws lawsuit against Microsoft after restoration of services The company said that despite the supply-chain inhibitions caused by the unjust EU sanctions, it remains committed to maintaining reliable transportation of its products through coastal, rail, and road networks to efficiently serve its customers. Last month, in an attempt to target Russias ability to raise revenues from its oil and energy sector as it wages a prolonged war with Ukraine, the EU unveiled sanctions on Nayaras Vadinar refinery and also lowered the price cap on Russian oil by 15% to $47.6 a barrel from $60. The bloc also imposed sanctions on shadow fleet ships that are largely used for moving crude oil from Russia. Calling the action baseless, unilateral and a breach of international law, Nayara later said it is actively exploring all legal options to counter the EUs decision. The company claimed the sanctions undermine India's sovereignty and disregard global norms. Also Read | Delhi HC issues notice to Microsoft over suspension of services to Nayara Energy On 21 July, Nayara announced plans to invest over 70,000 crore in the long term across petrochemicals, ethanol plants, and marketing infrastructure expansion, among other projects. Nayara, which operates the 20-million-tonne refinery in Vadinar, said it remains committed to Indias growth story and has invested over 14,000 crore in various projects since August 2017, including upgrading existing refining facilities, investing in a new petrochemical plant, and other new infrastructure projects. In August 2017, Rosneft completed the acquisition of 49.13% of shares of Essar Oil Ltd from Essar Energy Holdings Ltd and its affiliates, and rebranded it as Nayara Energy in 2018. Moscow-headquartered Rosneft had described the EUs sanctions on Nayaras refinery in Gujarat as unjustified and illegal. New Delhi: India is looking to give its defence forces a competitive edge in modern warfare and security through state-of-the-art satellite communications (satcom) in partnership with the private sector, four people with direct knowledge of the matter said. The move will also open up new business vistas for satcom providers, which are yet to commence operations in the country. The department of telecommunications (DoT) is expected to conduct spectrum allocation sometime soon. Multiple trials have been conducted by the Indian Army, Air Force and Navy with private satcom providers such as OneWeb and Jio-SES over the past two years, the people cited above said. Trials with OneWeb, which is backed by Airtels parent firm Bharti Enterprises, have offered low-latency, satellite-based network connectivity with military-grade encryption on multiple occasions. Jio-SES, the second Indian satcom service provider with a licence from the DoT, has also held more than two defence-sector trials, two of the people cited above said. Also Read | India's satcom vs telecom fight just refuses to die The trials were conducted during the India-Vietnam joint military exercise in November last year, and Operation Brahma in Myanmar in April, among other occasions. The idea behind the trials is to see how old satellite communications standards can be overhauled for the armed forces, these people added. The Centres move would see the gradual replacement of older, large very small aperture terminal (VSAT) receivers, which connect with Indian Space Research Organisations (Isros) geosynchronous earth orbit (Geo) satellites. Such receivers are typically bulky and need specialized transport, and their connectivity is also slow. OneWeb and Jio-SES offer portable satcom terminals that are small enough to come in a backpack. They also deliver faster network connectivity that is critical for remote drones and other tech-heavy defence equipment in distant areas, by using low-earth orbit (Leo) satellites. India is also exploring other global players. One of the people mentioned above a senior government official speaking on condition of not being named said initial talks have been held with Elon Musk-owned Starlink on how it can offer a massive satellite network for the defence forces while maintaining the necessary security protocols and silos that the technology will require. Also Read | OneWeb seeks more time to meet satcom security norms as spectrum nears Notably, Starlink has not installed its gateways and equipment in the country so far, and is yet to conduct network trials and acquire security clearance from New Delhi. Emails sent to the DoT, ministry of defence, Airtel, Jio and Starlink did not receive responses until press time. New business opportunity Defence, maritime and border security will be key focus segments for enterprise satellite communication providers in India," said Shivaji Chatterjee, chief executive and managing director of Hughes Communications India, which is a partner to Bharti's OneWeb that offers both Geo and Leo satellite services. Multiple trials have already taken place to evaluate the potential of some of our latest offerings, such as OneWeb, in these strategic sectors," Chatterjee added. Other upcoming Leo offerings are also considered promising for rural broadband because of their extensive capacity enabled by large satellite constellations." Anil Kumar Bhatt, director general of space industry body, Indian Space Association (ISpA), said satcom services for Indian defence forces have so far been used as a backup to terrestrial and radio communications, even in remote terrain. Now, new-age infrastructure and modernization mean that Indias defence forces need low-latency Leo satellite networks to make the most of cutting-edge technologiesand also to support operations far beyond Indian borders," Bhatt said. A second senior official, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said the government sees these satcom services as a way to enhance connectivity in the country. Even as there are use cases for the government and defence-related activities, these companies will be allowed to serve those sectors only after ensuring that national security norms are not compromised," this official said. One of the officials cited above added that a use case that has been explored includes providing small, durable and lightweight user terminals that can be carried by army personnel or installed on crewed and uncrewed vehiclesthus helping support communication, command, surveillance, and intelligence needs in fixed locations and on the move". In September 2023, a report by The Times of India said that Indias defence forces had pilot-tested the use of suitcase-borne satcom terminals as part of modernized defence-grade satcom networks. Chaitanya Giri, space fellow at global think-tank Observer Research Foundation, said that Starlink is unlikely to get any imminent defence contract owing to the global geopolitics and the company catering to nations with which India might not be on the best of terms". While agreeing that India needs to overhaul and modernise satcom in defence arms, Giri said, But to do so, geostationary satellites that offer huge bandwidth of data and can be indigenized and concentrated on a solitary area could offer far greater security and faster network connectivity for defence applications. Companies would be encouraged if defence contracts included indigenization contractswhich would be critical for both ground-station and satellite infrastructure involved in defence." ISpAs Bhatt, a retired military secretary and lieutenant general of the Indian Army, further added that India will need to evaluate if the defence forces need their own Leo satellite constellation made indigenously, or acquire bandwidth from existing operators. Based on this, they would then take measures to make the satcom networks more secure," he said. Globally, too, instances of satcom service revamp are increasing. This June, Eutelsat, the global holding firm of Bhartis OneWeb, signed a 10-year agreement with Frances ministry of the armed forces. The deal, worth up to 1 billion, sought to integrate military and civilian satellite resources for Europe to have secure space communications. Eutelsat also has a deal with the UK to provide high-speed, low-latency connectivity for the countrys embassies, high commissions and consulatesas well as broader UK government activities globally. Also Read | Regulatory delays, testing may hold up satcom launch Vodafone Idea (Vi) reported another quarter of losses on Thursday. The operator also announced a top-level leadership change, with chief executive officer Akshaya Moondra completing his tenure. The company has named its current chief operating officer (COO) Abhijit Kishore as the new CEO, effective 19 August for three years. The move comes at a critical juncture for Vodafone Idea, which continues to grapple with mounting losses, huge government debt, stalled fund-raising efforts, and uncertain capex execution plans. Mr Akshaya Moondra was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the Company with effect from 19th August, 2022 for a term of three years. His tenure concludes on 18 August, 2025. Consequently he ceases to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, the company said in an exchange filing. Kishore has been associated with the company since March 2015, and has held multiple senior leadership roles within the organization, both at circle operations and corporate levels, the company said. Read more: Airtel widens revenue lead as data hunger revs Q1 profit On 2 April, Mint reported that the beleaguered telecom operator was scouting for a chief executive officer as incumbent Moondra's term would expire in August. Financial performance Vodafone Idea, Indias third largest-telecom operator, on Thursday reported its April-June earnings, with the numbers showing continued weak financial performance. The operator, however, witnessed its lowest subscriber decline since the Vodafone-Idea merger in 2018. For the June quarter, Vodafone India reported a net loss of 6,608 crore, higher than the 6,432 crore loss a year ago. The hit was, however, less than Bloombergs estimate of a 6,853 crore loss for the quarter. The increase in losses can be attributed to higher expenses, especially depreciation and amortization cost and finance costs, which include interest payments on debt and other liabilities. Finance costs, accounting for 54% of its revenue from operations, rose nearly 7% year-on-year (y-o-y) to 5,893 crore. On a sequential basis, the operator's losses narrowed from 7,166 crore as the finance cost reduced 9%. Analysts at ICICI Securities in a note dated 8 July estimated that the bottomline of the company would be partially benefited sequentially from lower debt on conversion into equity by the government. In April, the company had allotted 36,950 crore worth of equity shares to the government, converting some of its spectrum dues into equity. The conversion gave the government a 49% stake in the telecom operator. The companys revenue from operations rose nearly 5% y-o-y to 11,022.5 crore, just missing Bloombergs estimate of 11,153 crore. The improvement can be attributed to the companys network expansion plans, increase in data consumption on the network and tariff hikes last year. On a sequential basis, the companys revenue was flat compared to 11,013 crore in the preceding quarter. The investments made over the past three quarters to expand our 4G coverage have started yielding results, as reflected in the 90% lower subscriber loss compared to Q2 and Q3 of last financial year, being the lowest subscriber decline since merger, Moondra said in a statement. We are encouraged by the momentum across our core business metrics. Data consumption has hit a record high driven by the success of our SuperHero and Non-stop SuperHero plans. As of June end, the companys subscriber base was at 197.7 million, down by 0.5 million sequentially. In the year-ago period, the subscriber base was at 210.1 million. In the second and third quarter of FY25, Vodafone Idea had lost 5 million subscribers each. In the June quarter, the companys 4G/5G subscriber base also improved to 127.4 million as agasinst 126.4 million in the preceding quarter and 126.7 million in the year-ago period. The operator has been improving its 4G services with network upgrades and has also started rolling out 5G. Moondra said the companys 5G services are now operational in 22 cities across 13 circles, and it will systematically expand its 5G footprint, in line with growing 5G handset adoption. The companys average revenue per user (Arpu), a key performance metric, rose marginally to 165 from 164 in the preceding quarter. In comparison, Reliance Jios Arpu rose to 208.8 in the June quarter from 206.2, whereas for Bharti Airtel, the Arpu was 250. During the quarter, Vodafone Ideas Ebitda came in at 4,612 crore, a fall of 1% from the preceding quarter, but rose 9.7% y-o-y owing to higher revenue growth. We continue to invest in capex and to support our broader capex plans of 500550 billion ( 50,000-55,000 crore, we remain engaged with lenders to secure debt financing, Moondra said. The companys capex for the quarter was at 2,440 crore. sustainability of VIL (Vodafone Idea Limited) capex is in question as the company has struggled to raise debt, which is critical for the company's planned three-year capex of 500-550 billion as laid out in 2024, analysts at UBS said in a note dated 10 July. Vodafone Idea has been strapped with huge dues. As of 30 June, the companys deferred payment obligation (including interest accrued but not due) towards spectrum which is payable over the years till FY44 and towards adjusted gross revenue (AGR), which is payable over the years till FY31 aggregates to 1.99 trillion. Its outstanding debt from banks (including interest accrued but not due) was 1,944.5 crore. The company said its debt from banks payable by June 2026 was 1,715.2 crore. The Group has exchanged correspondences and continues to be in discussion with the lenders for next steps/waivers, Vodafone Idea said in its earnings statement. The company added that the AGR instalment on which moratorium was availed as per the telecom reforms package 2021, due during FY26, is 16,428 crore. The amount has to be paid in the absence of any relief. Instalments related to deferred payment obligations towards spectrum payable by June 2026 is 2,641 crore. New Delhi: The government is working on a plan to substantially ease compliance burdens and eliminate policy bottlenecks as well as procedural hurdles to attract investments, after India's talks for a trade agreement with the US stalled over the latter's demand for greater market access to the politically-sensitive agriculture and dairy sectors. The government has asked 37 of its ministries to submit a detailed report on the key compliance requirements that are creating roadblocks for manufacturers, exporters, investors and small enterprises, hurting their ability to conduct their businesses smoothly, three government officials directly involved in the ongoing consultations said on the condition of anonymity. Also Read | Centre wants to pull more small traders and vendors into GST netby persuasion One of the key areas under discussion to strengthen the domestic manufacturing base is reforming the GST reimbursement mechanism on the lines of the income tax refund, where an assessee gets refunds soon after the verification of their returns in an automatic, seamless manner, the first of the three officials cited earlier said. During discussions with officials from various ministries and separately with exporters and manufacturers, a critical concern that was flagged was the absence of an automatic refund mechanism after disputes flagged with a red alert notice are resolved, the second person said. Traders currently have to apply afresh to claim refunds even after the dispute is settled and the red alert is removed, creating an unnecessary compliance burden." Queries sent to the ministries of commerce, finance, external affairs, the prime minister's office, and the GST secretariat remained unanswered till press time. There remain a few challenges for GST refunds, particularly for exporters and MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), such as delays in refunds, and procedural complexities that need to be addressed, Hemant Jain, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said. For traders, these delays directly translate into higher financial costs, reduced competitiveness, and uncertainty in fulfilling orders. Removing these hurdles will not only improve the ease of doing business but also bolster Indias trade efficiency and export growth, especially with rising geopolitical uncertainties," Jain added. As talks with the US for the bilateral trade agreement (BTA) hit a stalemate, president Donald Trump imposed an additional 25% punitive tariff on India for buying Russian oil and weapons, taking the total import duty on Indian goods to 50%. The government is leveraging this trade crisis to fast-track ease-of-doing-business reforms, including a single-window clearance system inspired by passport services, and simplified procedures for land acquisition and contract management, according to a Mint report on 9 August. As of 30 June, total direct and indirect tax arrears in India amounted to over 54.53 trillion, the government informed Parliament on 5 August. In a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha, minister of state for finance Pankaj Chaudhary stated that pending indirect tax arrears stood at more than 7.01 trillion, while direct tax arrears were over 47.52 trillion. Also Read | Profiteering worries cast cloud over GST cuts The delay in processing GST refunds has been a significant concern for businesses, particularly exporters and manufacturers, as it affects their working capital and cash flow," said Abhash Kumar, trade economist and assistant professor of economics at Delhi University. Other proposals include easing incentives reimbursement norms, softening rules for opening bank accounts for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders, and removing redundant approvals for foreign investors," said the third person. The government is also keen on simplifying the claims procedures under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, designed to boost domestic manufacturing. Easing procedural challenges in claiming incentives under the PLI scheme is a key focus for the government. The aim is to make the process hassle-free, encouraging more investments that will boost the manufacturing sector and create employment opportunities," this person added. The priority is to maintain the momentum of manufacturing to boost employment and sustain domestic consumption, this person said. Perhaps due to the cumbersome process of claiming incentives under the PLI scheme, many beneficiaries are hesitant to come forward and claim their dues. As a result, as of June 2025, only 21,534 crore of the allocated 1.90 trillion had been disbursed, with companies producing just 37% of the targeted goods. The PLI schemes, covering sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and specialty steel, have attracted investments totaling 1.76 trillion and generated over 1.2 million direct and indirect jobs. The disbursement has been uneven across sectors. For instance, the electronics and pharmaceutical sectors received about 70% of the total incentives for FY25, amounting to 5,732 crore and 2,328 crore, respectively. In contrast, the telecom sector has seen a slower uptake, with only 21 out of 42 eligible firms receiving a total of 1,162 crore in incentives as of 31 March. As the government discusses a comprehensive policy reset to boost manufacturing and attract investment, it is also consulting export promotion councils and manufacturers to rework Indias export strategy, according to a Mint report dated 2 August. This development follows a deadlock in the BTA negotiations between India and the US, which have been ongoing since June, Mint reported on 11 June. The new export plan focuses on diversifying into key markets where India has or is close to finalizing free trade agreements (FTAs), including the UK, with which India recently signed an FTA, and the European Union, where talks are in the final stages with a deal expected before year-end. Other target markets include the UAE, Australia, Japan, and South Korea, all of which have existing FTAs with India. The measures are an attempt to protect Indias economic growth, which some economists fear could slip by 20 to 30 basis points to around 6.2% in the current fiscal year if the new tariffs are enacted. The impact on GDP may not be dramatic, but we could see growth closer to 6.26.3% in FY26," said Madan Sabnavis, chief economist at Bank of Baroda. Key sectors such as textiles, which accounts for $10.91 billion in exports to the US, engineering goods ($19.16 billion), agriculture ($2.53 billion), gems and jewellery ($9.94 billion), leather ($948.47 million), marine products ($2.68 billion), and plastics ($1.92 billion) could face serious trouble if the 50% US tariff continues for along. Exports in these categories could fall by as much as 40% if the 50% tariff remains in place for an extended period. India exported goods worth $86.5 billion to the US in FY25, accounting for 20% of the countrys total merchandise exports of $433.56 billion during the year. Indias total agricultural exports to the US stood at $2.53 billion in FY25, up 19.3% from $2.12 billion in FY24. NEW DELHI: Indias merchandise trade deficit widened to an eight-month high $27.35 billion in July, as imports surged faster than exports, according to provisional data from the commerce ministry. Exports held up ahead of US tariffs set to take effect in late August, while imports surged, driven by higher demand for petroleum and crude products, electronic goods, and machinery. In November 2024, India's trade deficit stood at $32.8 billion. Economists polled by Reuters had expected a deficit of $20.35 billion for July. Earlier this month, President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, reportedly linked to New Delhi's trade with Russia, bringing total levies on Indian exports to 50% - among the highest of any US trading partner. The new duties are expected to kick in by 27 August, unless a breakthrough is reached during the ongoing 21-day negotiation window. About half of Indias exports to the US could be affected, particularly labour-intensive sectors such as garments, leather, and gems and jewellery, according to Madan Sabnavis, chief economist at Bank of Baroda. Exports to the US account for roughly 2% of Indias GDP. Merchandise exports rose to $37.24 billion in July from $35.14 billion in June, while imports climbed more sharply to $64.59 billion from $53.92 billion. The combined trade in goods and services in July stood at $68.27 billion in exports and $79.99 billion in imports, raising the overall trade deficit to $11.72 billion for the month, up from $3.51 billion in June and $10.10 billion a year ago. Services exports remained largely steady at $31.03 billion, slightly down from $32.84 billion in June, while services imports fell to $15.40 billion from $17.58 billion. In July 2024, services exports stood at $30.60 billion and imports at $15.94 billion. Also Read | Commerce ministry readies export incentives, credit aid to blunt Trump tariffs Trade breakdown Despite headwinds from global trade tensions, Indian exports have remained resilient, both in July and during the April-July FY26 period, commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal said. The major drivers of merchandise exports were electronic goods, engineering goods, gems & jewellery, drugs & pharmaceuticals, organic and inorganic chemicals, he added. During April-July, merchandise exports rose 3% year-on-year to $149.20 billion, while imports climbed 5.36% to $244.01 billion. Key export categories included engineering products ($39.33 billion, up from $37.10 billion), electronic goods ($16.17 billion, up from $11.25 billion), and pharmaceuticals ($10.25 billion, up from $9.54 billion). Gems and jewellery exports slipped slightly to $9.05 billion from $9.12 billion, and petroleum products fell to $21.75 billion from $26.43 billion. On the import side, petroleum and crude, electronic goods, and machinery remained the leading categories. China, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia, the US, and Saudi Arabia were Indias top suppliers, while the US, UAE, the Netherlands, China, the UK, and Singapore remained the largest export destinations. Non-petroleum exports during AprilJuly reached $127.46 billion, up from $118.34 billion a year earlier, while non-petroleum imports rose to $179.18 billion from $165.57 billion. Outlook The global trade environment remains volatile. Indian exporters are navigating challenges such as higher US tariffs on Indian goods and disruptions from geopolitical uncertainties. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for Indian energy and container shipments, has seen delays, adding to supply-chain stress in recent months. Meanwhile, the Export-Import Bank of India has projected that Indias merchandise exports will reach $108.1 billion in the JulySeptember quarter of FY26, indicating that exports are likely to stay on track despite global uncertainties triggered by fresh US tariffs and trade tensions. Non-oil exports are forecast at US$ 92.1 billion, while shipments excluding both oil and gems & jewellery are expected to stand at US$ 82.7 billion, reflecting a modest 2.3% year-on-year growth, according to the Exim Bank forecast released on Thursday. The forecast comes at a time when exporters are grappling with higher duties in key markets, slowing global demand, and geopolitical strains. Growth could be supported by a base effect, continued buoyancy in manufacturing activity, higher capacity utilisation, and supportive financial conditions, alongside favourable prospects from ongoing trade negotiations with multiple countries, it said. New Delhi: Despite mounting uncertainty over US President Donald Trumps repeated threats to impose additional tariffs on India for crudepurchases from Russia, New Delhi says trade negotiations with Washington remain on course. Discussions are advancing on four parallel tracks involving negotiators, ministers, diplomats, and industry representatives, commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal told reporters on Thursday. He said clarity on the proposed sixth round of talks would emerge later this month. When we met with the US team in New Delhi, they indicated another round of discussions in the last week of August. We are guided by the joint statement made by the leadership, which outlined the goal of doubling bilateral trade between the two nations to $500 billion, he said. We are actively engaged. The US is a very important trade partner for India, and India is an important partner for the US. By the last week of August, we will have a clearer picture of how the discussions are progressing, he added. The US is not only Indias largest trading partner, but also one of the few major economies with which New Delhi enjoys a significant trade surplus. Indias goods trade surplus with the US rose to $41.18 billion in fiscal year 2025, up 16.6% from $35.33 billion a year earlier. The increase was driven by an 11.6% rise in exports to $86.51 billion, while imports from the US grew 7.4% to $45.33 billion. Also Read | FPIs Pull out 18K Cr Worth Of Indian Equities In August In contrast, Indias overall goods trade posted a deficit of $282.8 billion in FY25. Barthwal said that negotiations toward a bilateral trade agreement were progressing steadily, with both sides aiming to conclude the process by fall 2025. The assurances came a day after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Washington could escalate secondary tariffs on India if the forthcoming Trump-Putin talks fail to yield a breakthrough. We have put secondary tariffs on Indians for buying Russian oil. And I could see, if things dont go well, then sanctions or secondary tariffs could go up, Bessent told Bloomberg TV. The US has already announced two rounds of duties on Indian goods: a 25% tariff that took effect on 7 August, and another 25% penalty linked to Russian oil imports, due to begin from 27 August. A senior Indian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stressed that we would not like to speculate on the impact of the second set of tariffs. For the duties already in force, the government is engaging with industry stakeholders and closely tracking sectors most exposed to the US market. Export Promotion Councils, particularly those representing labour-intensive industries, have been in talks with the commerce ministry. The official mentioned above said Indian exporters generally fall into two camps: those heavily reliant on the US and those with more diversified markets, including the UK and the European Union. Also Read | Trump delays China tariffs, extends trade truce by 90 days Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 14 (ANI): Bollywood actress Janhvi Kapoor on Thursday paid a heartwarming tribute to her late mother, the legendary Sridevi. Earlier on Wednesday, Janhvi observed Sridevi's 62nd birth anniversary by paying a visit to Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh to offer prayers. The day after, she took to her Instagram handle and shared a string of old family pictures. The first picture shows a very young Boney Kapoor and Sridevi holding baby Janhvi, while the other ones feature the family together. One of them shows young Janhvi and Khushi dressed in traditional outfits and posing with their parents. Janhvi also shared a few of her recent pictures in a purple saree, which she paired with traditional jewellery and a simple hairstyle. "Happy Birthday Mumma every step with your name in my heart," the actress wrote in her caption. On Wednesday, Sidharth Malhotra, who also accompanied Janhvi to the temple, shared a video in which they were seen heading together. He also mentioned that it was his first-ever visit to Tirumala Temple, further adding that his 'Param Sundari' co-star offers prayers every year. Meanwhile, Janhvi Kapoor's father, producer Boney Kapoor and her sister, Khushi Kapoor, also shared posts, remembering Sridevi on her birth anniversary. "Yesssss, you are not 62 today. You are 26. Happy birthday, we are still reliving all your happy birthdays," Boney Kapoor wrote in one of his posts. On the work front, Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra will be next seen in Tushar Jalota's 'Param Sundari.'. It tells the chaotic love story of a Punjabi munda and a Kerala girl. Sanjay Kapoor and Manjot Singh also have prominent roles in the film. The trailer for the film was unveiled earlier this week, promising a perfect mix of romance, comedy, and action. Photo: https://t.me/DIUkraine/ The communist regime of the DPRK has gained critical combat experience, as well as access to advanced weapons, military technology and tactical training, by supporting the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation into Ukraine, which not only affected the course of the war in Europe, but may also affect the balance of power in Northeast Asia, head of the Main Directorate of Defense Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov has said. "Currently, there are only three countries in the world with experience in waging a modern war on a very long front line using almost all available conventional means - these are Ukraine, Russia and North Korea," Budanov said in an interview with the The Japan Times. He noted that the experience of this war is being transferred to the entire North Korean army of 1.3 million people, which, together with Russian technology, "negatively affects security in the Pacific region." "We have constantly emphasized that cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang poses a threat not only to Ukraine," Budanov stressed. According to him, out of 12,000 North Korean soldiers sent to war, about 5,000 died due to "lack of preparation for 21st century war" and poor coordination with Russian troops on the battlefield, but the North Koreans "adapted quickly," gradually adopting modern combat tactics and equipment. "North Korean troops operate, like Russian ones, mostly in small groups. They have learned to move quickly, not only using drones, but also defending themselves against them," the head of the GUR said. According to Ukrainian military intelligence, North Korea currently provides 40% of the Russian army's needs for 122 mm and 152 mm ammunition, the production of which is reportedly ongoing "around the clock in North Korea." Russia has also received hundreds of artillery systems, multiple launch rocket systems and missiles from Pyongyang. According to Budanov, some of these weapons initially showed low efficiency, but the Russians have managed to eliminate many of these shortcomings, one example being the 690-kilometer KN-23 missile, which has already undergone combat testing and improvements. According to the GUR chief, the problem lies not only in improving quality, but also in the huge scale of supplies due to the DPRKs significant military reserves and powerful military-production capabilities, despite United Nations sanctions. Pyongyang compensates for the depletion of the Russian Federation and "is now a key military ally of Russia," Budanov said. In exchange for Pyongyang's support, Moscow provides mainly money, technology and training, which helps North Korea significantly strengthen its military potential. In addition, it supplies the necessary food, fuel, lubricants and other resources. The head of Ukrainian intelligence added that Moscow has also sent military specialists to train the Korean People's Army not only in the use of combat drones and air defense systems, but also to help establish in the DPRK the production of Russian versions of the Iranian-developed Shahed/Geran attack drones. There is also information that the Russian Federation has provided North Korea with electronic warfare systems, in particular, the most modern Russian equipment of the Pantsir-S1 air defense systems has been deployed to protect the capital of the DPRK. North Korean officers are also undergoing modern combat training in Russia. According to Budanov, an alliance with the Russian Federation, which includes a mutual defense pact, could also weaken China's influence on Pyongyang. Mumbai: Actor and Bigg Boss 18 contestant Shilpa Shirodhkar met with an accident where a bus rammed into her car. She has filed complaint and thanked Mumbai Police for registering it without any problem. She took to Instagram and described her unpleasant experience, saying anything could have happened. She said no one from her team was hurt, while slamming the ruthless company for not taking the responsibility. 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 it's not their companys responsibility, its the drivers responsibility. How ruthless are these guys? How much can a driver be earning, Shilpa said while sharing pictures of her damaged car. She added, Thanks to @mumbaipolice @cpmumbaipolice, they helped me file a police complaint without much problem. But the company refuses to take any responsibility for the incident. @cityflo.ind appreciate you to connect with me on this matter. Thankfully my staff is fine and unhurt, but anything could have happened." Shilpa shared an image revealing that her car had been rear-ended, showing a large dent and shattered glass. She also uploaded a photo capturing the bus's license plate, along with another image clearly displaying the name "Cityflo" on the vehicle. Later, the actress posted cheerful selfies with her friends, including Chum Darang, indicating that she was unharmed in the incident. Shilpa's Instagram story Shilpa Shirodhkar's work front Shilpa is gearing up for her big-screen comeback with the highly anticipated pan-India supernatural thriller Jatadhara. This film marks her return after a long break and centers around the enigmatic Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, weaving together mythology, mystery, and suspense in a richly atmospheric storyline. Beats has joined forces with acclaimed fashion designer Kiko Kostadinov to launch an exclusive edition of the Beats Pill Bluetooth speaker. This release blends cutting-edge technology with rich cultural references, offering consumers a product that is both functional and highly collectible. The special edition will only be available at the Kiko Kostadinov store in Tokyo, enhancing its rarity and desirability. Inspired by ancient Thracian craftsmanship The design draws from Kostadinovs Bulgarian heritage, featuring a custom grille patterned with intricate geometric shapes reminiscent of Thracian art. These patterns are steeped in cultural significance and reflect the designers interest in the symbolism found within traditional craftsmanship. The body of the speaker is finished in the distinctive Kiko grey tone, which adds a contemporary and minimal feel to the overall aesthetic. Braided straps accompany the speaker, inspired by Bulgarian ritual threads and amulets. These elements bring both texture and storytelling to the design, creating a piece that communicates cultural depth alongside modern style. Enhanced features for a modern audience This limited edition is based on the most recent version of the Beats Pill, released in June 2024. The latest model brought significant improvements to the series, including a USB-C port, longer battery performance, enhanced sound quality, and a water-resistant build. A built-in lanyard also increases portability, making it ideal for everyday use and travel. By combining these technical upgrades with the distinctive Kostadinov design, the collaboration results in a speaker that appeals to both technology enthusiasts and design collectors. It serves as a statement piece while still delivering the dependable performance that the Beats brand is known for. Part of a wider collaborative tradition Beats has consistently partnered with prominent figures in music, fashion, and culture to create unique versions of its products. Past collaborations have included partnerships with celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and special colour releases for major retailers. These projects aim to produce limited-run products that merge popular culture with high-quality technology. The Kiko Kostadinov collaboration stands out by focusing deeply on heritage and symbolic design rather than relying solely on contemporary trends. This creates a product that bridges past and present, artistry and utility. Exclusivity that elevates appeal The special editions availability is restricted to a single physical location, making it a highly desirable collectors item. While this design is limited, the standard Beats Pill continues to be offered worldwide in Matte Black, Champagne Gold, and Statement Red for those seeking more traditional styling. The U.S.-India relationship is in trouble due to President Trumps punishing tariffs and public wooing of Indias arch-enemy, Pakistan. Even so, its too early to write an obituary for one of Americas most significant partnerships in Asia. If both sides can muster creativity and flexibility, they can prevent a long-term rupture. First the bad news. For the first time in more than a quarter-century, the U.S. appears to be questioning a cornerstone of its Indo-Pacific policythat maintaining a strong relationship with India is in Americas interest. This month the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and added another 25% as punishment for Indias purchase of discounted Russian crude oil following Vladimir Putins 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The combined 50% tariff is among the highest imposed by the U.S. on any country. On social media, Mr. Trump has castigated India for erecting strenuous and obnoxious" trade barriers, for not caring how many people in Ukraine are being killed," and for having a dead" economy. Mr. Trump has also repeatedly said he brokered a cease-fire in a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May, a claim India denies. He has hosted Pakistans de facto military ruler, Field Marshal Asim Munir, at the White House, applied a comparatively modest tariff rate of 19% on Pakistan, and talked up the prospect of helping develop Pakistans oil reservesan odd idea considering theres little evidence Pakistan has much oil. The Pakistani government has nominated Mr. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Indias official response has been muted. A Foreign Ministry statement justified Indias purchase of Russian oil, saying imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs" for Indian consumers. It pointed out that neither the European Union nor the U.S. has ended trade with Russia, and it described Americas targeting of India" as unjustified and unreasonable." Pundits who follow the U.S.-India relationship agree that it is in deep trouble. Evan Feigenbaum of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace argued that President Donald Trump is now in the process of dismantling this painstakingly built relationship," undoing decades of bipartisan effort. Donald Trump was supposed to be good for India in his second presidency," Shyam Saran, a former Indian foreign secretary, wrote in the Indian Express. He has turned out to be nightmare." These concerns arent overblown. The base 25% tariff on India took effect last week, and the additional 25% tariff is due to kick in on Aug. 27. The U.S. accounts for roughly one-fifth of Indias goods exports. Labor-intensive sectors such as textiles, garments, jewelry and auto parts would be particularly hard-hit by a 50% tariff. It also threatens the viability of Prime Minister Narendra Modis flagship Make in India program, which is aimed at boosting the countrys manufacturing output. A strained relationship also hurts Washington. India was the 10th-largest U.S. trading partner in goods and eighth-largest in services in 2024. The greater potential downside of a weakened U.S.-India relationship is geopolitical. India boasts the largest population of any country and is on track to become the worlds third-largest economy at market exchange rates by 2028. A recent report by the Center for a New American Security, a Washington think tank, listed India among six so-called global swing states, allied neither with the U.S. nor China, that together will exert disproportionate influence over the future of international order." The geopolitical logic that brought the U.S. and India closer in the first place means a patch-up remains possible. Rupture would imply that under Mr. Trump, the U.S. is no longer interested in taking seriously its competition with China. For India, the choice is a no-brainer. China claims large chunks of Indian territory and is Pakistans closest military and diplomatic ally. Both the U.S. and India have left the door open to compromise. Despite his harsh words, Mr. Trump has continued to call India a friend" and has refrained from lashing out at Mr. Modi. Nor has the Indian prime minister attacked the U.S. or Mr. Trump. Unlike most countries, India has the means to offer Mr. Trump a deal that he can sell as a big win. India is the worlds second-largest arms importer, after Ukraine, and the third-largest oil importer, after the U.S. and China. Growing domestic demand for energy gives India room to increase its liquefied natural gas imports from the U.S. According to the Confederation of Indian Industry, Indian businesses have invested $40 billion in the U.S. They could promise to invest more. Even on agriculturea major sticking point in negotiationsIndia could probably eliminate tariffs on select items, such as soybeans and blueberries, without risking too much political backlash. As long as the U.S. doesnt actively arm Pakistan, India can probably live with Mr. Trumps empty praise for Islamabad. Indias ties with Moscow and outreach to Kyiv could prove helpful in U.S. efforts to broker a peace deal. If India brings a sweeter offer to the table, Mr. Trump could give Mr. Modi a political win by dropping tariffs to the 15% rate that Japan and South Korea enjoy. If this happens, people will view the president as a builder of deeper U.S.-India ties rather than as the wielder of a wrecking ball. THE TIMING could not have been worse. Days before a crucial summit in Alaska between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, scheduled for Friday, Russian forces broke through Ukraines defensive line. Near the breakout area at Dobropillia, just north of the Ukrainian stronghold of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region, soldiers report panic and confusion. Shtyk, an officer in the 93rd brigade, which has been redeployed to the area, says Ukraine is still working out where the enemy is. He estimates the main breakthrough had penetrated over 10km, cutting a key supply road, but subversion groups have probably reached other villages too. The wedge hasnt expanded yet, but its a depressing situation," Shtyk says. There was a failure to build defences, a failure to take decisions in the moment, and no one there to quickly restore the linebecause there are no people." View Full Image Map: The Economist With crack units deployed to the scene, Ukraine will probably soon contain the surge and slow Russias advance back to a bloody, gruelling crawl. But the push has convinced soldiers that Russia intends to keep pursuing its war where it can. They worry the American president will draw the wrong lesson: that Ukraine is weak, rather than that Russia is bloodthirsty. Ukrainian soldiers will always be against a bad peace on the enemys terms," says Deputy, a drone commander in the 30th brigade. If there is a ceasefire, he wants to hang up my uniform and never put it on again. Not to have to head to draft offices again in five years." Three and a half years into the war, front-line soldiers are tired, morale is faltering a bit and criticism of the leadership is growing. But everyone agrees that the sort of land swaps" American leaders have been talking about ahead of the Alaska summit are flatly unacceptable. Boar, the nom de guerre of a company commander in the 56th brigade, says a retreat would betray fallen comrades and go against the logic" of the current battle. He has just returned from three weeks in trenches near Chasiv Yar, where Ukraine has held a narrow strip in the face of over two years of Russian assaults. Russia continues to throw men at it, he says, losing perhaps ten soldiers for every Ukrainian. Vasyl, an infantryman under his command, goes further. If Trump were here, Id tell him to go and do a Russian warship," invoking the obscene reply Ukrainian border guards supposedly gave Russian naval officers in the wars first days. A fog of uncertainty hangs over Mr Trumps Friday summit. There will be no seat at the table for Volodymyr Zelensky, nor for any of Ukraines European allies. While a ceasefire in Ukraine is squarely on the agenda, The Economist understands that the talks will venture further than that. One potential area is a deeper normalisation of diplomatic and business relations between America and Russia, including a lifting of sanctions. Mr Putin yearns for this kind of rehabilitation. Another is co-operation in the Arctic, for example over energy, resurrecting discussions that reportedly took place in February, with Russian officials keen to woo American business. What offers Russia might make for peace in Ukraine are less obvious. In July secret talks between Ukrainian and Russian negotiators made significant progress, bringing the sides closer than they had been for some time. Then Mr Trump appeared to lose patience with Mr Putins delays, threatening him with crippling" sanctions if he did not immediately stop the war. Mr Trumps ultimatum seemed to reflect the influence of Keith Kellogg, a retired general and presidential envoy. But another faction inside the White House had a competing vision for an agreement with Russia. Steve Witkoff, a longtime real-estate associate whom Mr Trump appointed as another special envoy, made an unannounced visit to Moscow on August 6th. He appears to have made offers that shifted the negotiations towards proposals much less acceptable to Ukraine. Mr Witkoff favours striking a grand deal between America and Russia. His involvement in negotiations has usually been to the detriment of Ukraine. It has also been marked with extraordinary incompetence. Reports suggest the American envoy did not fully understand Mr Putins offer to swap" Ukrainian-controlled land in Donbas for a promise not to attack elsewheregetting territory his army had failed to conquer, in exchange for words. Mr Putin has a history of offering concessions" designed to fragment Ukrainian unity. Somehow, discussion of Ukraine acknowledging Russian control of territory it occupies has shifted into talk of giving Russia more. The concept of swaps has been on the table since last year, when Ukrainian forces held positions inside Russias Kursk region. Ukraine has since been driven from almost all of Kursk, rendering that proposal moot. But the zombie notion of swaps apparently remains alive in Washington. Sources say Ukraines latest proposals have one clear condition: a full ceasefire should come before any talk of ceding territory. Anything else, one source warns, would open a Pandoras box". That is not enough for the Americans, who are urging Ukraine to make a counter-offer including some of its own land. A remote summit on Wednesday of European leaders with Mr Zelensky and Mr Trump, chaired by Friedrich Merz, Germanys chancellor, attempted to create a united front to resist such pressure. The Europeans agreed that a truce had to precede any negotiations, that Ukraine must have a place at the table and that it would receive security guarantees in any deal. Mr Merz said Mr Trump largely shares" the European and Ukrainian positions, leaving unclear which ones he did not endorse. Yet Ukraines allies still worry that Americas president will insist on land swaps that will be difficult for Mr Zelensky to deliver. In recent days Mr Trump has returned to his old habit of blaming Ukraines president for Russias invasion. On the eastern front, there is little time to read the headlines. Life here brings a different set of concerns, soldiers say. Boar has spent the last three weeks trying to stay alive, sleeping with one eye open while watching for the next group of Russians crawling towards his position. Mr Trumps wishes carry little authority, he says. Authority means my brothers-in-arms. It means Sasha, who carried 300 people out of a trench under fire. It means Vasya, who brings radios to places where no one else dares to go. It is the rows of crosses marking where our comrades fell. How can we simply give that away?" ICICI Bank Minimum Balance: ICICI Bank changed its minimum balance requirement policy on Thursday, August 13, for savings accounts opened after August 1, following public criticism after a significant increase. What are the revised minimum balance requirements? ICICI Bank's official website states that the minimum balance for urban and metro areas has been reduced to 15,000 from 50,000. In semi-urban regions, the bank now requires a minimum savings account balance of 7,500. ICICI Bank's minimum monthly average balance (MAB) for rural areas is 2,500, which is lower than the previous requirement for rural customers. Also Read | ICICI Bank cuts minimum balance to 15,000: Check details What is minimum account balance? The minimum account balance is the lowest amount that must be kept in a savings account to prevent a penalty. Banks set specific requirements based on the account type and branch location. Who will be impacted by the minimum balance account requirements? The minimum balance account requirement will affect ICICI Bank savings account holders who opened their accounts after August 1, 2025. If customers do not maintain the minimum balance, the bank may levy a penalty, which has also been hiked. Also Read | ICICI vs HDFC vs SBI: Minimum balance and Penalty What charges will apply if you don't maintain a minimum balance in ICICI Bank? If customers do not maintain the revised minimum account balance, they will be charged 6 per cent of the shortfall in the required MAB or 500, whichever is lower. Previously, the penalty amount was 450, based on the difference between the minimum balance and the location of the branch, as Mint reported on June 1, 2025. Also Read | Why has ICICI Bank hiked its minimum balance requirement 5X? How do ICICI Bank's requirements compare with other major banks? Here's a detailed comparison of the minimum account balance requirements of major banks State Bank of India State Bank of India, the country's largest public sector bank, does not require its account holders to maintain a minimum balance. SBI savings accounts and Savings Plus Bank accounts have a zero balance requirement on a monthly or quarterly basis. As stated on its official website, these accounts do not need a minimum balance, and hence, no penalties are imposed for falling below any minimum balance. HDFC Bank HDFC Bank, India's largest private sector bank, requires a minimum balance for savings accounts. The website states that the minimum balance is 10,000 or a fixed deposit of 1 lakh held for at least one year and one day for urban branches. The bank mandates a minimum balance of 5,000 monthly or a fixed deposit of 50,000 for one year and one day for semi-rural branches. In case of rural branches, the minimum balance is 2,500 per month; alternatively, customers can hold a fixed deposit of 25,000 for one year and one day. Meanwhile, major banks such as Canara Bank and Yes Bank do not require their customers to keep a minimum balance in their savings accounts. Also Read | Take charge of your money with a safe second bank account for daily spending India Inc. is plagued by candidates dropping out after accepting a job offer, indicating hesitancy in the job market. Many candidates prefer to stay back and pick up a counteroffer from their current employer than join a new place, a Mint+Shine study found. For 22% of the companies surveyed, dropouts were the biggest hiring challenge" in the June quarter. Typically, attrition rises in the June quarter, since many candidates with job offers in hand wait till the pay hikes are out. However, most corporate appraisals are over this year, but there is no flurry of job switches. Mint+Shine surveyed 254 senior executives and 2024 job seekers for its Talent Insights Report. Meanwhile, budget constraints forced many companies to go slow on hiring, the survey found. Extended hiring timelines and low engagement with job-seekers were added factors that prompted prospective joinees to tun dropouts. In fact, in senior roles, the time taken to close open positions can stretch six months to a year versus three-six months even couple of years ago, the study found. The annual appraisal season was muted this year, with Deloitte estimating an average pay hike of 8.8% and Aon 9.2%.The actual hikes in many cases may be lower than expected, prompting some exits. Todays hiring landscape is marked by quiet thinking. Candidates are weighing their choices more carefully, and organizations are building teams with intent. In many ways, its a healthier environment driven less by urgency and more by alignment," said Akhil Gupta, chief executive officer (CEO), Shine.com. According to the study, 29% of companies expect an increase in hiring due to anticipated resignations fueled by appraisal dissatisfaction. This indicates a reactive hiring pattern, with companies preparing to backfill critical roles rather than expand aggressively," noted the study. The job market has swung wildly over the last few years. In the second phase of the pandemic, companies recruited aggressively as firms raced to go digital. But across late 2022 and 2023, they realized they had over-hired. As funds dried up and clients turned cautious, a wave of retrenchments followed in the startup and IT sector. The eruption of conflicts in parts of the world and the tariff wars added to uncertainty and dampened hiring. Also Read | TCS is overhauling how it hires contract staffers. Vendors are not happy The study found out that 21% of firms foresee a hiring dip due to budget constraints, reflecting cost-optimization efforts, especially in sectors hit by demand fluctuations or margin pressures. About 22% of companies said the uncertainty is probably due to volatile market sentiment post appraisals, driven by global economic headwinds and ongoing shifts. The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) is also pushing sectors that were talent-guzzlers to rework requirements. In July, Mint reported on changes in the IT sector on the back of AI adoption. TCS said it would cut 2% of jobs, partly attributing its decision to AI. Earlier, HCL Technologies said it would reduce headcount outside India as automation takes up lower-end skills. Wipro has asked many employees to complete a mandatory English assessment. The study noted that banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI); manufacturing and IT remain top recruiters despite the choppy hiring market. The upcoming festive season is expected to bring in new mandates in both permanent and temporary workforce, benefiting the e-commerce, logistics and retail sectors. Creditors to bankrupt firms could get their hands on a wider pool of valuable assets and claw back money from shady promoter transactions once the latest changes to India's insolvency rules take effect. While the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) remains the primary mode for bankruptcy resolution, lenders often seize assets of defaulting companies under various other laws; however, such assets stay with the individual banks themselves. The amended law will aid in bringing such assetsalso seized from the defaulter's personal or corporate guarantors, essentially, its promoters, corporate parent, or an associate companywithin the pool of assets for resolution. Experts said this increases flexibility in rescuing businesses and fetches better value for the business, rather than selling assets by individual lenders in a fragmented way. However, the process is not automatic, and must be blessed by the committee of creditors supervising the resolution. On Tuesday, the Lok Sabha referred the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill 2025 to a select committee of the Parliament. Before the debut of IBC in 2016, lenders used the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act (Sarfaesi Act) of 2002 to seize assets from defaulters. In some cases, lenders still resort to Sarfaesi Act that allows secured creditors to seize assets of borrowers who fail to repay dues within 60 days of demanding repayment. Also Read | Govt proposes IBC overhaul, shift of power from courtrooms to boardrooms Separately, the new bill extends the timeline to tag dubious pre-bankruptcy transactions of sick companies as avoidance transactions that can be reversed by tribunals. While the stipulated time for admitting a case to bankruptcy court is 14 days, the average time is 434 days. The lengthy window enables unethical promoters to siphon off money via wrongful transactions once the bankruptcy petition is filed. Avoidance transactions may be undervalued, preferential, fraudulent or extortionate. Currently, transactions done up to two years prior to admission can be cancelled in the case of related party transactions, and up to one year in the case of other transactions. The bill seeks to expand this look back period to two-year preceding initiation of bankruptcy proceedings all the way up to the date of its admission in NCLT in the cases of related party transactions. In the case of an unrelated parties, this period starts from one year prior to bankruptcy petition filing to its admission date. Also Read | The clash between IBC and PMLA is nearing a solution We have seen in many insolvency cases that considerable timeon an average one to two yearsis taken in admission of the insolvency after the initiation of the insolvency process by the creditors and most of the defaulting entities would have engaged in avoidance transactions either during this period or even much earlier than this," said Surendra Raj, partner, Grant Thornton Bharat. Amending the look-back period for reporting such transactions undertaken during the two years (for related parties) and one year (for unrelated parties) from the initiation date (that is, the date when first application is filed for initiation of insolvency) would bring in many more such avoidance transactions in the purview of being classified as avoidance transaction. While this is certainly a welcome step to bring back public money to victims, one needs to be very careful that genuine business transactions dont get reported in this category resulting in over work for already burdened NCLTs," said Raj. Hence, very careful analysis would be required to be done by the resolution professional or the liquidator and professional advisors before reporting these transactions," said Raj. Soumitra Majumdar, partner, JSA Advocates & Solicitors said the proposed amendments provide the much-needed clarity on treatment of avoidance transactions and the resultant assets. The statutory aim appears to be to build in certainty of recovery, and flexibility in disposal methods of assetsboth at the corporate debtor level and at those of the guarantors, subject to certain conditions. Ability to efficiently monetise assets will enhance creditor and stakeholder recoveries," said Majumdar. On the demand side, buyers will naturally be encouraged to offer price commensurate with the economic value of assets, without having to account for legal and regulatory risks associated with such acquisitions," said Majumdar. The government should also introduce dedicated NCLT benches to adjudicate on these transactions because many applications to annul these transactions, having approximately exposure of 3.89 trillion already in the last eight years are pending for adjudication at different stages, said Raj of Grant Thornton Bharat. The bill also clarifies that recovery proceedings from avoidance transactions or fraudulent trading will not affect the debt resolution process and these will continue independently even after completion of debt resolution or even liquidation of the company. Also Read | Reform push: Insurance amendment bill heads to Parliament Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd shares hit a new 52-week of 7,859.50 on Thursday after surging around 8% the previous day on the back of impressive June-quarter (Q1FY26) results. Consolidated net profit jumped 42% year-on-year to 433 crore, with digital health and pharmacy seeing a turnaround. The segment swung to a net profit of 57 crore versus a loss of 13 crore in Q1FY25 on the back of revenue growth and narrowing losses in Apollo 24/7, the digital consultation and treatment business. In its mainstay healthcare services or hospitals business, Apollo has changed its traditionally reported metric of average revenue per occupied bed (ARPOB) to average revenue per patient (ARPP). Management believes ARPP blends pricing, length of patient stays and occupancy into one figure. Vital signs ARPP rose 9% year-on-year to 1.72 lakh in Q1FY26, driving 11% revenue growth to 2,935 crore. ARPP growth was driven by more complex cases that fetch higher realisation, better payer mix and improved tariffs. Cardiac, oncology, neurology, gastro and ortho (or CONGO) patients accounted for 63% of the total. The rise in CONGO patients vis-a-vis general surgeries boosted overall revenue. Insured patients were higher at 45% versus self-pay at 40%. Insured patients tend to choose better rooms, raising charges for all other services, including nursing. Also Read | Hindalco Q1 deja vu: India business shines but Novelis drags In-patient discharges, similar to volume, grew 3% to 1.52 lakh. International patients (about 5% of revenue) hurt the growth rate by 150 bps owing to a drop in Bangladeshi patients because of visa restrictions. Management hopes to offset this with patients from new markets in Africa and the Middle East, including Iraq. International revenue could contribute 7% to total revenue by FY26 and 10% by FY27, it said. Management has guided for hospital business Ebitda margin to improve from 24.5% in Q1FY26 to 25% by the end of FY26, and there could be a 100 bps drop from this point as new hospitals start operations. New hospitals are likely to incur losses of about 150 crore over the next couple of years. However, management is confident of achieving breakeven 12 months after commencing operations. Pressure on ROCE The return on capital employed (ROCE) in Apollos hospital business came in at a healthy 28% for Q1FY26. The capital employed currently excludes capital work-in-progress of 842 crore towards new hospitals. Capital employed is likely to rise nearly 40% from the current 7,900 crore by the end of FY26 as new hospitals come on stream. Such a large expansion within a year would put pressure on ROCE in the near term, but such lumpy, intermittent investments are typical of the hospital industry. Financing this capital expenditure won't be hard for Apollo as its balance sheet has a net cash position that leaves scope to borrow when needed. Nevertheless, the performance of new hospitals to be commissioned in FY26 must be closely monitored over the next couple of years. If the ramp-up turns out to be good, investors will be less worried about the next phase of expansion, worth 4,438 crore. Despite a strong Q1FY26, some analysts are concerned about the stock's valuation. Nomura has neutral rating with a sum-of-the-parts target price of 6,856. It values the healthcare services business at 25 times the one-year forward EV/ Ebitda and assigns a multiple of 30 for the asset-light pharmacy business Apollo Health Co. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has issued a consultation paper proposing a ground-up rewrite of the 1992 Stock Brokers Regulations to simplify compliance, codify key circulars, and align the rules with todays tech-driven markets. It has invited public comments until 3 September. Mint breaks down what changes most for brokers, investors, and markets. What are the proposed definitions? Sebi has included definitions of algorithmic trading, which is order generated using automated execution logic and execution only platform (EOP), a digital/online platform that facilitates subscription, redemption and switch transactions in direct plans of mutual fund schemes. Sebi also deleted the definition of a small investor as the threshold of 50,000 was considered an outdated classification. Legal experts who advise brokers believe the proposed definitions may be too broad or missing out on spelling out exceptions. Sonam Chandwani, managing partner of KS Legal, said the proposed algorithmic trading definition is so broad that it risks capturing everything from basic order-routing tools to high frequency trading (HFT). This approach could subject low-risk participants to disproportionate compliance obligations designed for far more sophisticated and potentially disruptive trading systems." Chandwani said. How will registration and governance change? Sebis consultation paper has specified that at least one designated director must be resident in India (182+ days per financial year) for broker-companies at registration consideration. It also specified that brokers must intimate Sebi (via an exchange) and other market infrastructure institutions (MIIs) of any material change" in registration information, not just change in control. Change-in-control approvals are to be routed through an exchange. Lawyers said the new material change" intimation will raise compliance overhead and may trigger disputes unless Sebi/exchanges clearly define scope, timelines, and formats through circulars. What is material change has not been defined in the proposed regulations. This additional requirement may increase the compliance burden on brokers, and the absence of a clear definition for material change could lead to differing interpretations and potential disputes," said Akshaya Bhansali, managing partner at Mindspright Legal. What is changing for large brokers designated as QSBs? Sebi has proposed to rely on size/scale metrics only for Qualified Stock Brokers (QSB) designations. The metrics will now include active clients, client assets held with the broker, trading volumes, end-of-day client margin obligations, and proprietary trading volumes. Compliance and grievance scores, Sebi suggested, will not be qualifying criteria, as it puts additional burden of compliance on an aspect that is already monitored. Experts said this move is essential. While these requirements do increase compliance and operational costs, the large customer bases and high transaction volumes handled by QSBs make it essential for ensuring transparency and maintaining the credibility of market intermediaries," said Prakarsh Gagdani, chief executive officer (CEO) at Torus Digital. However, Narinder Wadhwa, managing director & CEO of SKI Capital Services Ltd, said the debate of compliance burden for QSBs being proportionate or overly stringent remained, potentially affecting competitiveness. How is recordkeeping and digitisation being streamlined? Sebi has proposed permitting electronic maintenance of books or records, essentially removing physical-security-era requirements, which includes paper contract note copies. Brokers must inform exchanges (not Sebi directly) where books/records are maintained, Sebi said, aligning submissions and communication through the exchanges. Changes in documentation, compliance technology, and reporting structures could require significant investment. There could be possible shifts in client onboarding norms, record-keeping formats, and real-time reporting obligations", Wadhwa said. How will fees and net worth requirements change? The consultation paper removes references to the outdated 1990s transition-year and has standardised fee payment processes and timelines through exchanges and online gateways. Exchanges collected these fees segment-wise. Sebi also proposed to remove the present formula-based variable net worth in the current regulations tied to client cash balances at brokers. The regulator reasoned that the provisions became less relevant after it introduced the mandatory upstreaming of client funds to clearing corporations. Through this, the investors clear credit balances are transferred by the broker to the clearing corporation every day. A new method will be specified by Sebi as needed. Experts said the absence of clarity on how variable net worth" will be computed created uncertainty for capital planning. The shift of variable net worth to circulars means Sebi can change the formula quickly. Helpful if upstreaming lowers balances, but risky if they widen what counts. Large brokers can absorb swings; smaller ones may face sharper, less predictable capital demands", Ajay Kejriwal, executive director at Choice Equity Broking, said. What is the new power to relax strict enforcement? The regulator proposed an enabling provision to relax strict enforcement in specified circumstances such as undue hardship, procedural or technical issues, factors beyond control, and non-relevance for a class. It proposed including a mechanism for confidential treatment of requests or responses for up to 180 days. Legal experts said the discretion seemed inherently subjective. Without clearly defined parameters, market participants may challenge decisions as being arbitrary. Further, the provision allows for confidential treatment of such requests and Sebis responses. So, such relaxations will not be in the public domain for up to 180 days (or not at all if withdrawn)", Bhansali said. Chandwani echoed the view and said that without precise criteria and published interpretive guidance, this flexibility could fuel interpretational uncertainty and litigation. Will inspections increase or be better coordinated? Beyond Sebis inspection powers, recognised stock exchanges, clearing corporations, and depositories may conduct inspections as per their by-laws, the consultation paper said. Sebi and MIIs will be allowed to conduct joint inspections, aiming to avoid multiple duplicative checks. Lawyers said without a clearly defined jurisdictional hierarchy, regulated entities could be subjected to overlapping inquiries into the same issues. This not only creates procedural inefficiency but also heightens the risk of conflicting conclusions between authorities", Chandwani said. What timelines and operational impact should brokers expect? Industry sources note that adaptation windows for paperwork/policy updates could be a few months, with longer lead times for tech/algo controls and full QSB governance uplift; Sebi historically staggers implementation via circulars and master circular updates. Most brokers could adapt in six months for paperwork and policy updates, nine months for tech/algo compliance, nine months for full QSB governance upgrades, with likely phased timelines for any new net worth formula, giving smaller brokers extra breathing room", Kejriwal said. Who owns a larger stake in Indias top companies at present Indian or foreign institutions? The latest ownership report by Motilal Oswal Financial Services (MOFSL) reveals a clear shift in market dynamics, with domestic institutional investors (DIIs) now holding a larger stake in Indias leading companies than foreign institutional investors (FIIs). This changing balance of power has been steadily gaining momentum since 2021 as homegrown capital continued to flow into the market at a record pace. DIIs comprising mutual funds, insurance companies and pension funds poured $19.7 billion into Indian equities in the previous quarter alone, leaving FIIs far behind with investments of just $5.4 billion. While this highlights the growing dominance of domestic investors in shaping market trends, there are also instances in which the two have moved in tandem, raising their stakes in certain companies. Here are three blue chip stocks that have recently seen such dual buying interest. Also Read | Muthoot Finance strikes gold with robust Q1 show; more bling likely #1 Bajaj Finserv A part of the Bajaj Group, the company offers financial services such as financing, insurance, broking and investing. It also distributes these on digital platforms through subsidiaries and joint ventures. It is also in the business of generating power through wind turbines, a renewable energy source. Heres how DII and FII shareholdings increased in the June quarter. In April, Bajaj Finservs subsidiary Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Company (AMC) introduced two new passive funds Bajaj Finserv Nifty 50 Index Fund and Bajaj Finserv Nifty Next 50 Index Fund. These open-ended funds are designed to help investors grow their money over the long term by closely following the performance of their benchmark indices. They offer investors a low-cost, transparent, and efficient way to gain exposure to Indias large-cap equity market. In June the company launched Bajaj Finserv Small Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme focused on small-cap stocks. Bajaj Finserv has increased its customer target to 250 million in the next four years, chairman and managing director Sanjiv Bajaj told Reuters, betting on strong growth in the South Asian economy. For more details, see the company fact sheet and quarterly results. #2 Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) established in 1774, is a prominent shipyard in Mumbai. Initially a small dry dock, MDL has evolved into a renowned shipbuilding company. The company is among India's leading shipbuilding yards, specialising in constructing and repairing warships and submarines for the ministry of defence and commercial enterprises. It is the only Indian shipyard to have built destroyers and conventional submarines for the navy, among the first to have manufactured Veer and Khukri-class corvettes, and a lead builder of four Nilgiri-class stealth frigates. It is the only shipyard with Navratna status. Heres how DII and FII shareholdings increased in the June quarter. Also Read | Apollo Hospitals' clinical precision impresses investors in Q1 In June the company announced the proposed acquisition of a controlling stake in Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDPLC), Sri Lankas largest and most well-established shipyard. The acquisition is valued at up to $52.96 million. This would mark the companys first international venture and represent a significant step in its evolution from a domestic shipbuilder into a regional maritime player with global ambitions. The company now plans to increase production capacity for larger and more advanced military vessels. For more details, see the company fact sheet and quarterly results. #3 Waaree Energies Waaree Energies is a leading solar module manufacturer with integrated capabilities across the energy transition value chain, spanning cells, inverters, batteries and green hydrogen. It's an Indian manufacturer of solar PV modules with an aggregate installed capacity of 15 gigawatt (GW) as of 31 March, making it India's largest solar panel manufacturer. Waaree has five manufacturing units across India, four in Gujarat (Surat, Tumb, Nandigram, and Chikhli) and one in Uttar Pradesh (Noida). It also has a nationwide network of more than 334 franchisees. From March to June, FIIs increased their stake in the company from 0.7% to 2.7%, while DIIs raised their stake from 2.5% to 2.9%. This could be because Waaree Solar Americas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Waaree Energies, received an order on 27 June for the supply of 540MW of solar modules 270 MW to be delivered in 2025 and another 270 MW between 2027 and 2028. The company's board also approved the acquisition of Kamath Transformers Pvt. Ltd. for 290 crore. The acquisition is part of Waaree Energies' business expansion and will be completed in the current fiscal year. It will acquire 100% shareholding in Kamath Transformers for a cash consideration. In line with its growth strategy, the solar PV module manufacturer has also announced plans to expand its manufacturing presence in the US, particularly in Texas, aiming to increase capacity to 3 GW by FY26. For more details, see the company fact sheet and quarterly results. Conclusion Dual buying by domestic and foreign institutions often signals strong confidence in a companys fundamentals, growth potential and resilience. However, it is not a guarantee of future returns. Though these stocks often provide stability and good long-term growth potential, they can still experience ups and downs in the short term. Its important to look closely at a companys earnings potential, how it compares with others in the sector, and whether its stock price is reasonable, rather than blindly follow the moves of big investors. Investors should carefully evaluate these companies' fundamentals, corporate governance, and valuations as key factors before making an investment decision. Happy investing! Disclaimer:This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such. Learn more about our recommendation services here. This article was syndicated from Equitymaster.com. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at the official residence of the Prime Minister of Great Britain, where he was met by the head of the British government, Keir Starmer. As reported, the meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Keir Starmer, will take place on Thursday morning in London, where the head of the Ukrainian state is on a visit. "This morning's high-level meeting between the leaders of Great Britain and Ukraine at 10 Downing Street will be a carefully coordinated demonstration of support from the UK, planned just 24 hours before the summit in Alaska," the BBC reported. The publication emphasizes that this will be "the last push to ensure that European demands are heard before Donald Trump meets with Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the war in Ukraine." The sell-off by overseas investors has extended into a second straight month in August, as concerns over US President Donald Trumps 50% tariffs on Indian imports, along with tepid June-quarter earnings by India Inc. and rich valuations, have reportedly been driving them to other emerging markets. Investor sentiment towards India soured after Trump imposed higher duties on Indian goods while simultaneously striking trade deals with other Asian economies, including Japan, and extending the tariff suspension on China for another 90 days. These moves have led foreign investors to redirect their focus to those regions. Also Read | Chemicals stay FPI hotspotbut Trump tariffs could test the streak According to a Bank of America Corp. survey, 30% of global fund managers said they are underweight on India, followed by 20% for Thailand and 10% for Malaysia. Japan emerged as the top pick, with China in second place. This marks a sharp reversal from Mays survey, which had shown India displacing Japan as the most favoured market due to its perceived safe-haven status during Trumps initial tariff rollout, Bloomberg reported, citing the survey. August outflows top 22,000 crore During Wednesday's trading session, FPIs sold another 3,644 crore worth of Indian stocks through exchanges, taking their total outflow in August to 22,264 crore so far. This came after 47,666 crore of selling in July, which took their total sales figure for 2025 to 1.92 lakh crore so far. Notably, FPIs have been heavily selling domestic tech stocks, as in July alone, they withdrew 20,000 crore worth of holdings. Lacklustre earnings and a weak demand outlook spooked their sentiment, and in the June quarter, nine of the ten constituents of the Nifty IT index saw a drop in their overseas investor holdings. Also Read | Sebi mulls framework to boost resident Indians participation in FPIs In addition to weak domestic factors, the strengthening US dollar and elevated US bond yields are adding to the pressure on the 5.2 trillion equity market, causing India to underperform compared to its Asian peers over the last one and a half months. US stocks have also staged a strong comeback from their April low amid better tech earnings, led by a sharp surge in the AI demand outlook. Despite starting 2025 on a negative note and remaining net sellers for the first three months, FPI sentiment reversed in April and stayed positive in the following two months, with FPIs buying a cumulative 31,000 crore worth of local stocks. Although FPIs have been net sellers in eight out of nine trading sessions in August, the impact on the Indian stock market has been limited, thanks to robust buying from domestic institutional investors (DIIs), largely driven by mutual funds, which have continued to absorb the heavy FPI selling. According to exchange data, DIIs have purchased 51,899 crore worth of Indian equities in August so far, more than offsetting the FPI outflows. DII inflows have crossed 4.7 lakh crore in 2025 so far, and if the momentum extends into the remaining four months, the inflows may surpass the 5.2 lakh crore recorded in the previous calendar year. Also Read | Why is Indian stock market lagging global peers despite heavy DII buying? Focus shifts to Trump-Putin meeting According to the analysts, the reversal in FPI sentiment will depend on the outcome of the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska tomorrow, where discussions will center on the Ukraine conflict, and the outcome could influence tariff policy and risk sentiment. They say that if the talks lead to an end to the RussiaUkraine war, it may also result in the withdrawal of US sanctions on Russia and, consequently, a reconsideration of the 25% penal tariff imposed on India for buying oil from Russia. Meanwhile, Trump warned late Wednesday that Russia would face very severe consequences if it refused to end the war in Ukraine, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reiterated that he would not cede the eastern Donbas region to Russia. Defence stocks to buy today, 14 August 2025: Amid brewing Indo-US trade war tension after the announcement of Trump's tariffs on India, the possibility of border aggression by the Pakistan-sponsored terror outfits is highly likely. So, the Indian government is expected to increase its defence expenses, which may lead to a rise in the share prices of certain listed defence stocks. As 14 August 2025 marks Pakistan Independence Day, some motormouth speeches from the Pakistani, Chinese and the US administrations are highly expected. So, for long-term investors, buying some defence stocks ahead of the Indian Independence Day can be a good option. According to stock market experts, Trump's tariffs have triggered the realignment of the geopolitical setup, and some new equations are likely to take place. In that case, most affected countries are likely to find new avenues for export revenue, which they are expected to lose due to the imposition of Trump's tariffs. They advised investors to look at those defence stocks expected to benefit from the rise in the government's defence expenditures. However, they also advised investors to look at the fundamentals of the companies before making any investment decision. Defence stocks to buy on 14 August 2025 Speaking on the defence stocks to buy ahead of the Indian Independence Day 2025, Seema Srivastava, Senior Research Analyst at SMC Global Securities, said, "Indias defence sector is in a structural upcycle, driven by a 16 trillion procurement pipeline, record 23,622 crore exports in FY25 (up 12% YoY), and a push for self-reliance. HAL, BEL, BDL, and MDL provide stability, and L&T adds private-sector efficiency while niche tech firms offer high-growth potential. Policy support, rising export authorisations, and indigenisation could double exports to 50,000 crore by 2029, ensuring long-term competitiveness and sustainable returns through a diversified investment approach." Seema Srivastava of SMC Global Securities listed out the following five defence stocks: 1] Bharat Electronics Limited or BEL: During Q1 FY26, PAT rose 25% YoY to 969.13 crore, underpinned by a sharp 560 bps expansion in operating profit margin to 27.9%, reflecting superior cost control and a favourable execution mix. While revenue growth was modest at 5.2%, the companys ability to convert this into strong profitability highlights operational discipline and execution strength. A slight 2.4% YoY decline in the order book to 74,859 crore is monitorable. Still, with ongoing defence modernisation, the Make in India push, and expanding export opportunities, BEL is well placed to replenish and grow its order pipeline. Its debt-free balance sheet, robust cash flows, and leadership across radar, missile systems, and electronic warfare provide a durable competitive moat. The company is also strategically diversifying into non-defence areas like smart cities, solar, and cybersecurity, which can provide additional growth avenues and revenue stability. Supported by sustained government indigenisation initiatives and a proven track record of large-scale project execution, BEL offers long-term compounding potential. 2] BEML: BEML posted a narrowed net loss of 64.11 crore in Q1 FY26, down from 75.3 crore YoY, with EBITDA losses also reduced to 40.71 crore. Revenue remained flat at 633.99 crore, underscoring muted topline momentum and reflecting lean operations. Despite current softness, the companys robust order book of 9,945 crore offers multi-quarter visibility. Additionally, BEML won a significant 282 crore defence order for high-mobility vehicles, marking steady demand from the MoD. Strategic moves include diversification into futuristic mobility. BEML signed an MoU with IIT-Madras incubatee TuTr Hyperloop, expanding beyond traditional heavy equipment into innovative transport solutions. The company also continues to benefit from Indias record defence production uptick and export acceleration, creating a favourable policy backdrop. While near-term performance remains volatile, BEMLs strong order pipeline, evolving portfolio, and alignment with national infrastructure and defence thrust lend it credible long-term upside. The key things to watch include disciplined execution, especially in converting orders into profitable revenues and managing its operational turnaround. 3] Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limiteds Q1 FY26 results reflect near-term profitability pressures, with net profit down 35% YoY and EBITDA margins contracting sharply due to higher procurement and human resources costs. However, the companys long-term investment case remains strong, anchored by its strategic role in Indias naval modernisation and a robust financial track record. Between FY2124, MDL delivered exceptional growth with ~33% CAGR in revenue and ~47% CAGR in net profit, supported by industry-leading return ratios (ROE ~27%, ROCE ~33%) and a debt-free balance sheet, enabling self-funded capacity expansion. Key strategic initiatives, such as the upcoming Nhava dry dock facility, which will double shipbuilding capacity, and the proposed majority stake in Colombo Dockyard to expand into export markets, highlight managements intent to scale operations beyond domestic contracts. The strong defence order pipeline ensures multi-year revenue visibility, particularly in submarines, destroyers, and frigates. While FY26 may see margin volatility from execution cycles and input costs, MDLs operational leverage, expansion into higher-value projects, and export diversification should drive gradual profitability recovery. Given its strategic importance, technological capabilities, and capacity growth, MDL is well-positioned to capture long-term value from Indias growing defence spend and global naval procurement opportunities. 4] Zen Technologies: The companys Q1FY26 performance, though marked by a temporary moderation in topline growth, reflects strong long-term fundamentals. EBITDA and PAT margins have been sustained, underscoring disciplined operations and cost efficiency. A healthy consolidated order book of . 754 crore, coupled with a debt-free balance sheet and robust liquidity of . 918 crore, provides financial resilience and the flexibility to pursue growth opportunities. Strategic acquisitions, such as the 76% stake in TISA Aerospace, signal entry into high-potential UAV and loitering munitions markets, aligning with evolving global defence demand. Subsidiaries ARIPL and UTS are already adding meaningful operational synergies, while integration efforts progress smoothly. Moreover, according to the company's management, looking ahead to H1FY26, we remain confident in achieving our order inflow guidance of 800 crores. In addition, we expect orders to be placed under the governments emergency procurement plan, particularly for anti-drone systems. Its robust pipeline and continued policy support for indigenous manufacturing position the company well for sustained growth. The company's management mentioned that while FY26 is likely to be a year of consolidation, it would remain focused on executing its long-term strategy. It is confident in maintaining its targeted cumulative revenue of 6,000 crores over the next three financial years. 5] Astra Microwave Products: During Q1FY26, performance underscores a strong foundation for long-term growth. Consolidated revenue rose 29% YoY to 200 crore, with gross margin expansion to 46.7% and EBITDA margin improvement to 20.5%, reflecting operational efficiency and a favourable product mix. PAT surged 126% YoY to 16 crore, driven by robust execution and higher value-added orders. The consolidated order book stood at 2,236 crore as of June 30, 2025, ensuring multi-year revenue visibility. A key highlight was the August 135 crore DRDO radar system upgrade order, reinforcing Astras technological leadership in advanced defence electronics. The companys diversified portfolio across defence, aerospace, and space electronics, supported by in-house R&D, advanced test facilities, and AS9100D & ISO certifications, enhances its competitive moat in high-specification systems. Continued opportunities in QRSAM, missile subsystems, and space electronics align with Indias push for indigenisation and rising defence budgets. With strategic capabilities from component-level RF/Microwave products to integrated systems, Astra is well-positioned to capture domestic and export demand. Defence stocks looking strong on technical chart On defence stocks looking strong on the technical chart, Ganesh Dongre, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Anand Rathi, said, "BEL, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders and Cochin Shipyard shares are looking strong on the technical chart pattern. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) also sound promising on the technical chart." 1] BEL: BEL's share price currently trades around 388, offering an attractive risk-reward setup. A stop-loss can be comfortably placed at 360, while the medium-term upside potential lies in the 430 to 440 range. This makes BEL a compelling candidate for technically driven investors seeking bullish setups. 2] HAL: HAL share price is trading at 4,525 and appears to be forming a base in the daily chart's 4,450 to 4,550 zone. Technically, it is in the oversold zone and has formed a bullish engulfing pattern, indicating potential upward momentum. Traders can consider buying at current levels with a stop-loss of 4,300 and a target price of 4,900. 3] Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL): Bharat Dynamics' share price is in the process of base formation and, in the short term, has formed a bullish engulfing pattern. The stock is currently oscillating between 1,500 and 1,600. A decisive move above 1,650 could take it towards 1,800 in the coming days. Investors can consider buying with a stop-loss of 1,400 and a target of 1,800. 4] Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders' share price has corrected nearly 50% from its May high and shows signs of base formation around the daily chart of 2,650 to 2,750 levels. With a medium-term recovery expected, investors can consider buying at the current market price of 2,750 with a stop-loss of 2,500 and a target of 3,100. 5] Cochin Shipyard: The Cochin Shipyard share is in the oversold zone and shows a rounding bottom pattern on the hourly chart, suggesting a potential reversal. Investors can buy on dips from 1650 to 1700 with a stop-loss of 1,500 and a target range of 1,900 to 2,000. Indian equity benchmarks closed higher on 13 August, recovering from Tuesdays losses, as investors cheered a broad-based rally fuelled by positive global cues and softer domestic inflation data. The Sensex gained 304 points to settle at 80,539, while the Nifty 50 added 131 points, finishing above the psychologically important 24,600 level at 24,619. Mid- and small-cap stocks outperformed, with the BSE Midcap rising 0.56% and the BSE Smallcap climbing 0.58%. On to the top stock picks for 14 August, as recommended by Indias leading market experts. Three stocks to buy today, recommended by NeoTraders Raja Venkatraman Godawari Power and Ispat Ltd (Current market price: 204.29) GPIL: Buy above 205 and dips to 195 | Stop: 192 | Target: 225-235 Why Godawari Power is recommended: After spending a lot of time in consolidation, the trends in the Godawari Power counter have come out of a recent challenge. With a strong thrust above the cloud the prices are hinting at a possible upside in the counter. After facing some resistance around the 195 region, the prices are steadily heading higher. Post surpassing this level, the rise in momentum supported by steady volumes highlights the possibility of more upward traction. After spending a lot of time in consolidation, the trends in the Godawari Power counter have come out of a recent challenge. With a strong thrust above the cloud the prices are hinting at a possible upside in the counter. After facing some resistance around the 195 region, the prices are steadily heading higher. Post surpassing this level, the rise in momentum supported by steady volumes highlights the possibility of more upward traction. Key metrics P/E : 19.64, 52-week high : 253.60 Volume : 3.61m Technical analysis: Support at 175; resistance at 300 Support at 175; resistance at 300 Risk factors: Market volatility and sector-wide fluctuations in geopolitical news could impact returns Market volatility and sector-wide fluctuations in geopolitical news could impact returns Buy at: CMP and dips to 195 CMP and dips to 195 Target price: 225-235 in 1 month 225-235 in 1 month Stop loss: 192 Syngene International Ltd (Current market price: 659.15) SYNGENE: Buy CMP and dips to 640 | Stop: 630 | Target: 705-730 Why Syngene is recommended: Syngene is a leading contract research, development, and manufacturing organization in India, specializing in providing integrated drug discovery and development services to the global pharmaceutical, biotechnology, nutrition, animal health, and specialty chemical sectors. The sharp decline after a moderate rise post its results is finding some strong support at the TS & KS levels. With some revival seen in the last two days one can look at going long at current levels and also on dips. Key metrics P/E : 56.74 52-week high : 960 Volume : 531.76k Technical analysis: Support at 620; resistance at 750 Support at 620; resistance at 750 Risk factors: Rising input costs, increased operational expenses, and potentially foreign exchange impacts Rising input costs, increased operational expenses, and potentially foreign exchange impacts Buy at: CMP and dips to 640 CMP and dips to 640 Target price: 705-730 in 1 month 705-730 in 1 month Stop loss: 630 Kajaria Ceramics Ltd (Current market price: 1,274.80) KAJARIACER: Buy above 1,275 and dips to 1,250 | Stop: 1,240 | Target: 1,375-1,410 Why Kajaria Ceramics is recommended: The Kajaria Ceramics stock had been undergoing some steady upward trajectory. The pullback into the TS & KS bands since the last eight days is generating steady demand at lower levels. On the back of robust results, the strong up-move seen in the prices signal the possibility of more upward traction. Consider a long opportunity. The Kajaria Ceramics stock had been undergoing some steady upward trajectory. The pullback into the TS & KS bands since the last eight days is generating steady demand at lower levels. On the back of robust results, the strong up-move seen in the prices signal the possibility of more upward traction. Consider a long opportunity. Key metrics P/E : 93.06 52-week high : 1578.25 Volume : 204.65k Technical analysis: Support at 1,160; resistance at 1,500 Support at 1,160; resistance at 1,500 Risk factors: Sluggish growth, negative quarterly results, and reduced institutional investor participation Sluggish growth, negative quarterly results, and reduced institutional investor participation Buy at: Above 1,275 and dips to 1,250 Above 1,275 and dips to 1,250 Target price: 1,375-1,410 in 1 month 1,375-1,410 in 1 month Stop loss: 1,240 Two stock recommendations by MarketSmith India for 14 August Buy: Polycab India Ltd (Current price: 6,966) Why its recommended : Strong recent financial performance, major government contract, market leadership and diversification, order book, and growth initiatives : Strong recent financial performance, major government contract, market leadership and diversification, order book, and growth initiatives Key metrics : P/E: 45.64, 52-week high: 7,605.00, volume: 177.35 crore : P/E: 45.64, 52-week high: 7,605.00, volume: 177.35 crore Technical analysis : Reclaimed its 21-DMA : Reclaimed its 21-DMA Risk factors : Raw material price volatility, intense competition, and pricing pressure, segmental and execution risks, corporate governance, and compliance concerns : Raw material price volatility, intense competition, and pricing pressure, segmental and execution risks, corporate governance, and compliance concerns Buy at : 6,966 : 6,966 Target price : 7,790 in two to three months : 7,790 in two to three months Stop loss: 6,590 Buy: NMDC Ltd (Current price: 72.50) Why its recommended : Leading domestic iron ore producer : Leading domestic iron ore producer Key metrics : P/E: 9.51; 52-week high: 95.45; volume: 241.32 crore : P/E: 9.51; 52-week high: 95.45; volume: 241.32 crore Technical analysis : downward sloping trendline breakout : downward sloping trendline breakout Risk factors: Commodities market dependence, exposure to pricing and auction dynamics in mine allocation Commodities market dependence, exposure to pricing and auction dynamics in mine allocation Buy at : 72-73 : 72-73 Target price : 77 in two to three months : 77 in two to three months Stop loss: 70 Top 3 stock picks by Ankush Bajaj for 14 August Why its recommended: Apollo Hospitals is exhibiting strong bullish momentum. The daily RSI stands at 67, reflecting sustained buying strength. MACD is firmly positive at 27, and ADX at 18 indicates an emerging trend phase. The stock has made a new lifetime high and closed at its highest point, signalling strong continuation potential. The confluence of lifetime high breakout and momentum indicators suggests further upside towards 7,990. Key metrics: Breakout zone: Lifetime high breakout with strong follow-through Pattern: Continuation breakout after new highs MACD: Positive at 27 RSI: Daily RSI at 67 Why its recommended: The Indian Hotels is trading above all major moving averages, confirming underlying strength. The daily RSI at 60 reflects bullish momentum, MACD is flat but poised to turn positive, and ADX at 14 suggests early trend development. On the 45-minute chart, the stock has given an upper triangle breakout, pointing towards a continuation of the uptrend towards 815. Key metrics: Breakout zone: Upper triangle breakout on lower timeframe Pattern: Continuation breakout suggesting trend resumption MACD: Flat, with potential to turn positive RSI: Daily RSI at 60, signalling steady momentum ADX: At 14, suggesting trend strength is building Technical analysis: Triangle breakout indicates a move towards 815. Risk factors: A close below 745 would weaken the bullish setup. Buy at: 769.80 Target price: 815 Stop loss: 745 Buy: LARSEN & TOUBRO LTD (Current price: 3,693) Why its recommended: Larsen and Toubro is showing healthy bullish momentum with a daily RSI of 61, MACD at 32, and ADX at 25, confirming trend strength. On the 45-minute chart, the stock is forming a bullish pennant pattern. A breakout above 3,710 could trigger strong upward momentum towards the target of 3,780. Key metrics: Breakout zone: Bullish pennant on lower timeframe Pattern: Continuation pattern signalling potential rally on breakout MACD: Positive at 32 RSI: Daily RSI at 61, reflecting strong momentum ADX: At 25, confirming trend strength Technical analysis: A pennant breakout above 3,710 could accelerate gains towards 3,780. Risk factors: A close below 3,653 would invalidate the bullish view. Buy at: 3,693 Target price: 3,780 MarketSmith India is a stock research platform and advisory service focused on the Indian stock market. Trade name: William O'Neil India Pvt. Ltd. (Sebi Registered Research Analyst Registration No.: INH000015543) Ankush Bajaj is a Sebi-registered research analyst. His registration number is INH000010441. Raja Venkatraman is co-founder, NeoTrader. His Sebi-registered research analyst registration no. is INH000016223. Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing. Registration granted by Sebi and certification from NISM in no way guarantees performance of the intermediary or provide any assurance of returns to investors. Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions. Stocks to buy under 100: Amid news reports of Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting the US to attend the UN General Assembly, raising hopes of bilateral discussions amid rising trade tensions between the two nations, the Indian stock market registered a strong bounce back on Wednesday. The Nifty 50 index finished 131 points higher at 24,619, the BSE Sensex ended 304 points higher at 80,539, while the Bank Nifty index gained 137 points and closed at 55,181. On the diplomatic front, Indias External Affairs Minister is set to visit Russia on August 21 to meet his counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO meetingjust days after the crucial RussiaUS Presidential meeting scheduled for August 15 in Alaska. Any breakthrough from these engagements could raise hopes for removing secondary tariffs imposed on India over its Russian oil imports. Stock market today On the Indian stock market's outlook today, Siddhartha Khemka, Head of Research Wealth Management at Motilal Oswal, said, "We expect the market to remain range-bound, and domestic-facing themes are likely to be in favour amidst caution over Trump tariffs and the outcome of the US-Russia peace talks scheduled for Friday." Speaking on the outlook of the Nifty 50 index, Nagaraj Shetti, Senior Technical Research Analyst at HDFC Securities, said, "The short-term trend of the Nifty 50 index remains positive. A decisive move above the crucial hurdle of 24,700 levels could open further upside towards 25,000 in the near term. Immediate support for Nifty today is placed at 24,465." On the outlook of the Bank Nifty today, Shiju Kuthupalakkal, Senior Manager of Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher, said, "The Bank Nifty index was once again overall sluggish with no clear directional move and would need a decisive breach above the 56,000 zone to get some conviction and thereafter gain momentum. With the index precariously placed at the current juncture, as said earlier, a decisive breach below the 54,400 zone shall trigger intensified selling pressure, overall weakening the trend, with the next major support positioned near the important 200-period SMA at the 52,700 zone." Stocks to buy today under 100 Regarding stocks to buy today, market experts Sumeet Bagadia, Executive Director at Choice Broking; Sugandha Sachdeva, Founder of SS WealthStreet; and Anshul Jain, Head of Research at Lakshmishree Investment, recommended four intraday stocks for today under 100: Mohit Industries, Coffee Day Enterprises, Emami Paper Mills, and Geojit Financial Services. Sumeet Bagadia's intraday stocks for today 1] Mohit Industries: Buy at 35.55, Target 38.20, Stop Loss 34.15; and 2] Coffee Day Enterprises: Buy at 38.10, Target 41.15, Stop Loss 36.70. Sugandha Sachdeva's stock to buy under 100 3] Emami Paper Mills: Buy at 92.70, Targets 96.50, 97.70, Stop Loss 89.20. Anshul Jain's share to buy under 100 4] Geojit Financial Services: Buy at 73, Target 78, Stop Loss 70. In 1961, exactly 20 years prior to her directorial debut with 36 Chowringhee Lane, the world was introduced to Aparna Sen, nee Dasgupta, the daughter of eminent film critic Chidananda Dasgupta, as the young Mrinmoyee of Samapti, a part of Satyajit Rays Teen Kanya (1961). Sen says that this was in keeping with the fact that she had always wanted to be an actor, and her parents indulged her dreams and even promised to send her abroad to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. In 1969, she returned in a brief role in Rays cinema to play Samit Bhanjas love interest in Aranyer Din Ratri. While her career as an actor was not exactly stellar to begin with, very soon she went on to become one of the most popular actresses of Bengali cinema. Her pairing with some of the top male stars of the industry, such as Uttam Kumar and Soumitra Chatterjee, lent a certain sheen and appeal to her films and made her an extremely popular star in turn. Bhranti Bilas (1963), Baksa Badal (1970) and Jay Jayanti (1970) continue to remain some of her most popular films. Even as an actress, she played the roles of educated, working and empowered women, so it really does not come as a surprise that the women in the cinema which she would go on to create would be superior creatures compared to the men therein. While she does not like to talk about her career as an actress, it is worthwhile to probe her career as one. Most of the earlier films she acted inbeing products of the mainstream Tollygunge-based Bengali film industryfetched stardom and an iconic status for her, which have still not waned. Aparna Sen is not only one of a very small group of female actors-turned-directors (others include Sai Paranjpye, Hema Malini, Pooja Bhatt, Nandita Das and Revathi), but also the best known of them. She is recognized not only for her direction and acting, but also as a cultural and sociopolitical commentator. She was also the editor of the immensely popular Bengali magazine called Sananda from 1986 to 2005, when Madhumita Chattopadhyay took over as the editor-in-chief. Metaphors in Hindi films come with brass bands and neon signs. Ayan Mukerji's War 2 opens in Japan. A yakuza family is sitting down to dinner when a raggedy wolf walks in, followed by an emissary with news of an approaching army. The army, it turns out, is ol' green eyes, erstwhile RAW agent turned freelance assassin Kabir (Hrithik Roshan). He looks wilder than he did in War (2019), dispatching waves of armed killers with a grim smile until its just him and the hound left. Its almost like hes become a lone wolf. After the Japan job, Kabir is hired by Kali, a shadowy crime cartel with a representative each from Russia, China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. Theyre bent on some kind of world domination, though all their plans invariably centre on India. Kabir is key, the superspy patriot who now kills his own people, for a price. But writers Sridhar Raghavan and Abbas Tyrewala know that even if Kali believes Kabir has turned, the audience knows better. And so, soon after, its made clear that Kabir going rogue is part of a mission to destroy the cartel from within. The problem is, only Kabir and former RAW chief Luthra (Ashutosh Rana) know of the plan. The new boss, Kaul (Anil Kapoor), immediately sends a guided missile his way in the shape of special ops soldier Vikram (also headed in his direction, with more mixed feelings, is Luthras daughter, Kavya, played by Kiara Advani). Vikram (NTR Jr.) is introduced singlehandedly demolishing a ship-full of pirates whove taken a group of Indians hostage. Its a splashy, ludicrous set piece, in keeping with the YRF house style. And yet theres something lacking, that dancers agility and tongue-in-cheek creativity that made the first War such a delight. NTR Jr. for Tiger Shroff isnt a like-for-like replacement. Shroff has a lighter touch, NTR Jr. a stronger dramatic presence. But where the Telugu star is a similar screen fighter to Roshan, Shroffs martial arts skills offered a useful point of contrast in War. Shroff also elevated his co-star: seeing Kabir through Khalids worshipful eyes made Roshan seem all the more godlike. Theres a different dynamic in War 2, that of blood brothers whove fallen outa very common framing in modern Indian action cinema, and less interesting as a result. The other big replacement is Ayan Mukerji for Sidharth Anand, director of YRF actioners War and Pathaan (2023). Last years Fighter showed that Anand needs the wit of Tyrewala and Raghavan to avoid coming off like another hawkish government shill Bollywood director. But perhaps YRF needs Anand too. He understands these films in a way Mukerji cant. The edifice remains the same, whats missing is the knack of bearing down on the right moment. There are few scenes in modern Hindi film as giddily effective as the camera panning to John Abraham smirking in the pool in Pathaan. War 2 offers similar opportunities, none of which are sold with the same verve. Mukerji has practically the same team that did War: Tyrewala-Raghavan writing, Aditya Chopra producing, cinematographer Benjamin Jasper, editor Aarif Sheikh, score by Sanchit and Ankit Balhara. But he cant make their work sing the dance off, Janaab-e-Aali, struggles to seem like anything other than a reheat of Jai Jai Shiv Shankar. War 2 has every kind of set piece youd expect from a Spyverse film, on top of trains and up belltowers and in ice caves, wielding samurai swords and brass knuckles and grenades. Even with a three-hour runtime, you wont lack for quantity, though quality varies (the sequence where theyre hanging off a plane but somehow landing precision kicks is too stupid even for YRF). After Brahmastra, it was always going to be a gamble to hire Mukerji for a big action film. Perhaps the studio figured it wouldnt matter, that the expert and very large group of stunt and fight coordinators (including regulars Se-yeong Oh, Sunil Rodrigues and Craig Macrae) would handle things fine. But its never the same: there are filmmakers who direct action persuasively and those who cant, and fans can tell the difference. NEW DELHI : Insurance mis-selling at banks is an open secret. Even Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Sanjay Malhotra have acknowledged it at public forums, yet little has changed over the years, and customers who were mis-sold policies continue to bear the brunt. In fact, bancassurance sales incentives can strongly influence product recommendations, with staff often prioritising high-commission policies over genuine customer needs. Sample this: Jeet Singh Bisht, a 74- year-old Delhi-based retired businessman and customer of a small finance bank, experienced this first-hand. He was persuaded by the lenders team to buy two investment-cum-insurance policies, under a simple promise: pay a premium once and receive a lump sum after 10 years. However, just a year later, the terms unexpectedly changed. He was informed that annual payments would be required for at least five yearsdirectly contradicting the original assurance. Bishts repeated appeals to the bank and the insurance company brought no resolution, with officials denying any mis-selling despite the clear discrepancy. What to do in such a situation? You will need to keep at it. Fight for your cause. Frustrated Singh searched online for help and found Insurance Samadhan, a platform for the resolution of insurance claims. The organization reviewed his documents, took the matter to consumer court and negotiated a settlement. The banks team had misled me into buying an insurance policy with false commitments. I recovered much of the money, but that was after a lot of hassles," Singh said. Therefore, prevention is better than cure, and to avoid the mis-selling trap, you need to identify red flags. Red flags Bancassurance works on trust. You already know and trust your relationship manager. So when they recommend a financial product, you are more likely to take it at face value. And that is where mis-selling may happen. The idea is not to fall for such sales pitches without understanding the fine print. If you are being mis-sold, several tell-tale signs can serve as warnings. A common problem customers face is the lack of clarity of the terms and conditions around the product they are buying. Banks tend to over-emphasize the maturity benefits without clarifying conditions or assumptions. Often, customers are unclear about policy tenure, lock-in periods, or surrender charges, etc. This leads to investing in a product thats probably not a right fit for them, and they do it without understanding the underlying complexities, complicating their chances of an exit," said BankBazaar.com CEO Adhil Shetty. Tread with caution when speaking to bank relationship managers. Be doubtful of what they are saying. Consumers should be particularly cautious if they feel pressured to make a quick purchase without adequate explanation or time to review details. The absence of complete documentation, such as brochures or benefit illustrations, should raise immediate concern. Thus, a key red flag is when you are pressurized to decide immediately. If youre told 'this offer is only valid today' or not given time to read the policy documents, pause," said Shetty. Promises of guaranteed returns without proper documents are a key warning, as insurance investments carry risk. Other red flags: being told a policy is mandatory for loans or services, getting evasive answers on exclusions or charges, and ignoring potential downsides," said Prashant Mishra, Founder & CEO of Agnam Advisors, a fee-only investment advisory firm. For example, it is a common gimmick to tell you that your home loan will not be sanctioned if you do not take a term insurance. However, both RBI and Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) have clarified that it is not mandatory. Always insist on receiving official brochures, benefit illustrations, and policy wordings before making a decision. Written records protect you from misunderstandings and are your strongest defence if the product turns out to be different from what was promised," said Shetty. Also Read | Your health insurance may have a secret, and a catch If you are being pressurized to purchase a home loan cover for the home loan, communicate to the lender that you know that it is not mandatory to buy home loan cover to get a home loan. Also request them to give a written document stating that a loan cover is mandatory to get the loan. This will deter them from pushing any non-mandatory products," said Shetty. You can also inform the bank about the term plan that you have or intend to buy which can cover the loan payment default if any. All insurance policies come with a 15-30-day free-look period. This means that if the policy was issued recently, you have the right to cancel it within this period and receive a full refund. Additionally, if you believe you were misled, mis-sold, or coerced into purchasing a policy, you can submit a written complaint to the bank detailing the situation and formally request a refund.If the bank fails to address your complaint or refuses to act, you have the option to escalate the matter. You can file a grievance with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (Irdai) grievance redressal cell or approach the Banking Ombudsman under the Reserve Bank of India through the RBIs CMS portal. In such cases, it is important to provide supporting evidence that shows you were pressured or misled into buying the policy. RBI action RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra has recently affirmed that, despite mounting complaints about insurance mis-selling via banks, the bancassurance channel wont be restricted, given its role in expanding financial inclusion. Instead, the central bank will implement stronger safeguards, enhance customer education, and improve oversight to prevent malpractices. The RBI has brought in several measures to curb mis-selling, but it still persists. As per the Master Circular on Protection of Policyholders Interests, 2024 (issued 5 September 2024), insurers must include a customized benefit illustration, a document detailing projected benefits (guaranteed and non-guaranteed) tailored to the customers profile, as part of the policy document," said Shilpa Arora, chief operating officer and co-founder, Insurance Samadhan. Crucially, this illustration must be signed by both the customer and the authorized salesperson, not just the earlier proposal form. Additionally, a need analysis document, explaining why the recommended policy suits the customers needs, must accompany the policy, where applicable. Also Read | How to combat misselling in life insurance Irdai is stepping up monitoring of bancassurance channels, especially when complaints surge, and flagging entities engaging in potential mis-selling. Regulators have also cautioned banks directly about mis-selling risks and called for sales to be based on customer requirements, not incentives or targets," said Arora. While regulators are tightening safeguards, the onus remains on customers to stay alert, ask the right questions, demand written proof, and fully understand their rights. From October 1, 2025, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has banned UPI peer-to-peer (P2P) Collect transactions. The collect transaction feature enabled the UPI users to seek money from other individuals via UPI. Earlier meant to introduce convenience, for example, to remind friends about due repayments or splitting bills, this has lately been often abused by fraudsters, and hence it is set to be discontinued. In its latest circular, NPCI has issued instructions to all UPI member banks, PSPs, and third-party app providers. All member banks, payment service providers (PSPs) and UPI apps are directed to implement the necessary changes in their systems and operational processes to ensure that no P2P collect transaction is initiated, routed or processed beyond Oct 2, 2025, reads the circular. Also Read | UPI is abuzz with debt payments: Keep track of this trend Signed by Kunal Kalawatia, chief of products, the latest instructions will come into force with effect from October 1. The latest circular dated 29 July 2025 also recalls users that NPCI has earlier imposed limits on UPI Collect transactions based on their types. Although verified merchants were permitted to generate collect requests for a higher amount, P2P collect requests could be made under a limit of 2,000, per the NPCI's circular dated 31 October 2019. Fee from payment aggregators In other news, ICICI Bank started charging payment aggregators (PAs) a fee for handling Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions that these PAs facilitate on merchant platforms w.e.f. Aug 1. PAs include Google Pay, PhonePe, Mobikwik, and Razorpay, among others. The bank has reportedly sent letters to payment aggregators intimating them of this decision. Quoting a source familiar with the development. UPI for tourists In other news, Smart Payment Solutions, an RBI-regulated entity, launched Mony, a UPI-based mobile app that enables tourists and non-resident Indians (NRIs) to make payments across the country without requiring an Indian bank account. Also Read | Bank of Baroda announces major enhancement to UPI app bob e-Pay Built on Indias UPI and part of the UPI One World initiative, the Mony app will let foreign nationals pay for goods and services by scanning QR codes at local shops, restaurants, and retail stores. The service is designed to reduce the challenges faced by international visitors who often find it difficult to access Indias fast-growing digital economy. Timely EMI payments for a personal loan or any other loan have the highest weightage in calculating the credit score. Hence, the borrower must pay the EMI before or by the due date. However, in some cases, despite their best efforts, a borrower may be unable to pay the EMI on time. Some reasons for these include job loss, delay in salary, a salary cut, using the money for a medical or any other emergency, etc. In such a case, the bank has to categorise the loan as an NPA if the EMI remains unpaid for a specified period. In this article, we will understand what an NPA is, the process of categorising a loan as an NPA, and what happens when a loan is categorised as an NPA. What is an NPA? As per RBI guidelines, if a borrower doesnt pay the personal loan interest or principal for 90 days or more, it is categorised as a non-performing asset (NPA). The personal loan is termed non-performing as it is not earning interest for the bank or the NBFC that has given it. Before getting categorised as an NPA, the loan goes through the Special Mention Account (SMA) categorisation. When a loan starts showing early signs of stress, it is categorised as SMA as follows. SMA-0: When a personal loan principal or interest or both, have remained overdue for less than 30 days, it is included under the SMA-0 category. When a personal loan principal or interest or both, have remained overdue for less than 30 days, it is included under the SMA-0 category. SMA-1: When a personal loan principal or interest or both, have remained overdue for more than 30 days but less than 60 days, it is included under the SMA-1 category. When a personal loan principal or interest or both, have remained overdue for more than 30 days but less than 60 days, it is included under the SMA-1 category. SMA-2: When a personal loan principal or interest, or both, have remained overdue for more than 60 days but less than 90 days, it is included under the SMA-2 category. Let us understand with the help of an example. A borrower has taken a Rs. 50,000 personal loan with a one-year tenure. The EMI date is the 1st of the month. The borrower has paid 3 EMIs on time. The 4th EMI is due on 1st June, which the borrower misses. So, the personal loan account will be categorised as SMA-0. If the loan EMI remains unpaid till 1st July, it will be categorised as SMA-1. If the loan EMI remains unpaid till 31st July, it will be categorised as SMA-2. Further, if the EMI remains unpaid till 30th August, the personal loan will be categorised as an NPA. The number of days for which an EMI has remained unpaid is tracked through the Days Past Due (DPD). In the credit report, if the DPD is 0, it means the loan EMIs have been paid on time. Any number higher than 0 means the loan EMI repayment has been delayed. For example, if the EMI has remained unpaid for 30 days, it will be mentioned as 30 DPD. Reporting of NPA to credit bureaus Whenever there is any delay in the personal loan EMI repayment, the bank or NBFC reports it to the Credit Information Companies (CICs) like CRIF High Mark. The timely repayment of loan EMIs has the highest weightage in calculating an individuals credit score. So, when there is an EMI repayment delay, there is a big drop in the borrowers credit score. Along with the EMI delay repayment, the borrowers credit report will reflect the Days Past Due (DPD), and the SMA categorisation (SMA-0, SMA-1, or SMA-2). Also Read | 3 important things to check in your personal loan agreement before signing Types of NPAs Once a personal loan has been categorised as an NPA, it can be further sub-categorised as follows. Substandard (SUB): If a personal loan has remained NPA for a period of less than or equal to 12 months, it will be categorised as sub-standard. Doubtful (DBT): If a personal loan account has remained an NPA for more than 12 months, it will be categorised as doubtful. Usually, the longer the duration for which the personal loan remains unpaid, the lower the probability of recovery. Loss (LSS): If the bank or NBFC feels the personal loan outstanding amount will remain uncollectible, it will be categorised as a loss. By this stage, the bank may have exhausted all the ways of recovering the loan money. What happens when the EMI repayment is delayed? If a borrower delays a personal loan EMI repayment, the bank will start the recovery process. Recovery notice to borrower: The bank will send a legal notice to the borrower with the details of the outstanding loan amount and its repayment. The notice will mention the date by which the borrower must pay the outstanding loan amount. If the borrower has a genuine problem due to which they are facing financial constraints, they may approach the bank. The borrower may discuss the issue with the bank and request a loan restructuring. Filing a lawsuit: If the borrower doesnt clear the outstanding loan amount by the date specified in the legal notice, the bank will file a Court case. During the Court proceedings, if the borrower doesnt respond favourably, the Judge can pass an order to attach the borrowers assets for loan recovery. The attachment order can include the borrowers bank savings accounts, fixed deposits, etc. Upgrade of NPA account to standard account In the earlier section, we have seen how loan EMI repayment delays are reported to the credit bureaus. The credit score takes a hit, and the NPA status is reflected in the credit report. Once a loan account is categorised as an NPA, it will remain till the borrower clears the entire personal loan arrears, including principal and interest. If and when the borrower clears the entire personal loan arrears, the NPA account is upgraded to a standard account. Always pay EMIs on time We have discussed how delaying personal loan EMI repayment damages the credit score and leads to bank legal action for recovery. Any reports of delays/defaults in the credit report make it difficult for the borrower to get new loans or credit cards soon. Also, bank legal action can lead to the attachment of assets through a Court order. Hence, the borrower must pay all personal loan EMIs before or on time to ensure much-needed peace of mind. Gopal Gidwani is a freelance personal finance content writer with 15+ years of experience. He can be reached at LinkedIn. For all personal finance updates, visit here. Personal loans: Bollywood actor Shilpa Shetty and husband Raj Kundra are embroiled in a fresh row after a police complaint was filed against them for allegedly duping a businessman of 60.4 crore. What is interesting is that it was a loan that the company, Best Deal TV, run by the Shetty-Kundra duo, raised but was shown as an investment. Well, if you are wondering how an investment can be shown as a loan or vice versa, then remember that it is typically done to save taxes, among other reasons specific to the company or the lender-borrower agreement. An investment can, in fact, be shown as a business loan or personal loan in various scenarios: a) Plain loan: It can be a plain vanilla loan where there is a fixed repayment schedule and fixed interest. b) Convertible loan: It starts as a loan but can convert into equity at a later stage. c) Shareholder loan: It is given by existing shareholders instead of a bank. Why would someone show investment as loan? An investment can be treated as a loan when a borrower (company) does not want to part with the company's part ownership (i.e, equity) and wants to claim tax deduction against interest payments. If it is treated as a loan, the company is meant to repay the loan and interest payments are allowed as deductions before computing tax payable. Why would a company show loan as investment? Conversely, a loan can be shown as an investment when the company does not have liquidity to repay the loan and instead is willing to give ownership in return for the sum invested. In such a case, company is not entitled to claim deduction against interest payments. However, it does not need to repay the loan either. Interestingly, in the case of a company's insolvency, the first right of recovery lies with creditors (those who gave the loan) and not with the owners. So, whether lenders have a right to recover from a company's assets upon its liquidation depends entirely on whether the amount was treated as a loan or an investment. Back to Shilpa Shetty-Raj Kundra's case: Juhu-based businessman Deepak Kothari (60), director of Lotus Capital Finance Services, alleged that he gave the loan of 60.4 crore for business expansion between 2015 to 2023. After providing a guarantee in April 2016, Shetty resigned as director of the company in September 2016, the businessman said in his complaint. Kothari later discovered that insolvency proceedings were on against the company in 2017 for defaulting on another agreement, reported news agency PTI. In his complaint, the complainant alleged that he gave the loan for business, but the accused diverted the money for personal use, the police said. Notably, Shetty and Kundra deny all the allegations, which they say are purely civil in nature and have been adjudicated by the National Company Law Tribunal Mumbai on October 4, 2024. Photo: https://t.me/GeneralStaffZSU/ The situation near Dobropillia is stabilizing, the Defense Forces of Ukraine are taking all necessary measures to detect and destroy groups of Russian invaders, Major Andriy Kovalev, spokesman for the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has told Interfax-Ukraine. He noted that by the decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, additional forces and means have been allocated to strengthen the stability of the defense on the Dobropillia and Pokrovsk axes. "In particular, during the actions of the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine Azov, adjacent and subordinate units, the enemy is suffering significant losses. As a result of the fighting, 151 Russian invaders have been eliminated in the corps' area of responsibility over the past two days. More than 70 invaders have been wounded. Also, during this period, the corps soldiers captured eight Russian invaders," the spokesman emphasized. Kovalev stressed that the servicemen of the Defense Forces of Ukraine continue search and strike operations in the area of their responsibility. "The situation is stabilizing," the General Staff noted. Donetsk Regional Military Administration head Vadym Filashkin, in turn, said the situation is "stabilized" near Dobropillia. "The situation is stabilized. Thanks to the heroic efforts of our Defense Forces, the front line is reliably held. I thank everyone who, at this difficult moment, completed the task in the most difficult area and showed an example of resilience and professionalism," Filashkin wrote in Telegram on Thursday. According to him, the regional authorities continue to assist the military and maintain security in communities. As reported, on Monday, the DeepState OSINT project reported on the advance of Russian occupiers in the direction of Dobropol, Pokrovsky district, Donetsk region, in particular, to the settlements of Kucheriv Yar and Zolotiy Kolodyaz, where they are accumulating. At the same time, the enemy continues to develop its success in the direction of the Dobropillia-Kramatorsk highway, fixing itself in the area of Novovodyanye and Petrivka. The Operational Strategic Group of Forces (OSUV) Dnipro reported that the Russian occupiers are trying to infiltrate in small groups past the first line of Ukrainian positions and the infiltration of such groups, although it necessitates the involvement of reserves to destroy them, does not constitute the enemy taking control of the territory. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine stated on Tuesday that the Defense Forces of Ukraine are taking effective measures to stop the enemy's advance on the Dobropillia and Pokrovka axes, in particular, they are destroying small groups of the enemy and saboteurs who have penetrated a number of settlements there. "By decision of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, 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. Reserve units have already discovered the enemy and are having their first successes: the occupiers are being destroyed and taken prisoner," the message states. The Agence France-Presse reported, analyzing separate reports from the American Institute for the Study of War (ISW), that as of August 12, Russian troops, as a result of the breakthrough, took control of an area of 110 square kilometers in a day, which has not happened since the end of May 2024, noting that their usual pace of advance in recent weeks was on average six times lower. Instead, ISW, in its report on the war in Ukraine for August 12, reported that although Russian forces continued to penetrate Ukrainian defensive positions east and northeast of the city of Dobropillia in the Donetsk region with limited sabotage and reconnaissance groups, they were unable to deploy reinforcements to hold this tactical penetration and will face obstacles in their attempts to do so. It also notes that the Russian attack in the direction of Dobropillia took place after months of preparation and creation of appropriate conditions using drone attacks on a large scale. The Institute emphasized that the Russian side is trying to use the tactical penetration near Dobropillia to influence the upcoming meeting of US President Donald Trump with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The cryptocurrency faithful are having quite a moment. Donald Trumps return to the White House has brought a veritable cornucopia of pro-crypto promises, from talk of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve" to declarations about making America the crypto capital of the world." Markets have reacted predictably: Bitcoin has surged past previous highs, and believers are treating this as ultimate vindication. Yet beneath the sheen of political legitimacy, nothing fundamental has changed about cryptocurrencies essential nature. The irony in Trumps embrace of crypto is hard to miss. The proposed Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and US Digital Asset Stockpile" will apparently consist entirely of assets seized from criminals. In other words, the US governments official cryptocurrency holdings will be digital assets once used for ransomware, money laundering, drug trafficking, and other illicit activities. Its rather like announcing a strategic reserve of stolen goods as proof of their virtue. This detail neatly captures cryptos central problem. Despite all the technological sophistication and political endorsements, it remains the payment method of choice for criminals worldwide. Every major ransomware attack, dark web marketplace, and cross-border money laundering network gravitates to crypto for the same reasons enthusiasts celebrate itanonymity, irreversibility, and freedom from traditional oversight. Political enthusiasm cant fix these structural flaws. Governments seeking to legitimise crypto are, in effect, blessing a system designed to bypass governmental authority. The contradiction is glaring: regulators tout an asset class while acknowledging that their strategic reserves will be filled mainly by seizing it from criminals. The ease with which fraud and theft occur in crypto remains staggering. Consider the socialised loss" strategy, where a major Indian exchange, after losing customer funds to hackers, decided everyone should share the pain, a perfect example of the Wild West ethos. When exchanges profit, its capitalism; when theyre robbed, suddenly everyones a socialist. The frequency of such episodes would be comical if they didnt wipe out life savings. These arent isolated mishaps or growing pains; theyre built into a system that operates outside traditional financial protections. When a bank is robbed, deposit insurance protects you. When a crypto exchange is hacked", often a euphemism, youre on your own. The very decentralisation crypto champions means theres no safety net when things go wrong. Also Read | Coinbase circles CoinDCX after $44 mn crypto heist Trumps enthusiasm also underlines another uncomfortable reality: an anti-establishment movement has been fully co-opted by the establishment it once vowed to disrupt. Wall Street, which Bitcoin was meant to circumvent, is now its biggest backer via ETFs and institutional products. The so-called revolutionary currency depends on the same traditional finance for its legitimacy. Political endorsement carries psychological weight. When governments and big institutions adopt a position, it creates an illusion of safety and permanence. Past crypto bubbles fed on tech mystique and get-rich-quick dreams; this cycle adds political validation, which could make it more dangerous for ordinary investors mistaking political backing for sound investment. For Indian investors, the temptation to chase this apparent legitimacy will be strong. Domestic taxation has curbed much local speculation, but political developments in the US could encourage some to seek workarounds. The dont miss out" narrative, wrapped in patriotic American rhetoric about financial dominance, could be persuasive. Yet the math hasnt changed. Crypto produces nothing, earns nothing, and represents no underlying asset. It serves no economic purpose that existing systems cant fulfil more efficiently. Its price is driven purely by speculative sentiment, whether fuelled by tech hype, celebrity endorsements, or presidential tweets. The most telling part of cryptos political embrace is how quickly its advocates abandoned anti-government principles in exchange for government approval. Those who once railed against fiat currencies and central banks now cheer politicians promising to hoard their preferred tokens. Its a striking shift from revolutionary idealism to conventional rent-seeking. Short-term price predictions are futile, speculative bubbles can inflate far beyond reason. But knowing what youre buying matters. Political theatre and presidential applause cant turn speculation into investment, gambling into wealth-building, or criminal infrastructure into legitimate finance. However much hot air gets pumped into this bubble, the fundamentals remain unchanged. Dhirendra Kumar is founder and chief executive officer of Value Research, an independent advisory firm. Views expressed are personal. 46 people were killed, and 167 others were rescued from mounds of rubble after a massive cloudburst led to flashfloods in Chositi in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district on Thursday. Flash floods tore through the densely populated foothill hamlet, damaging several homes and even forcing authorities to halt the annual yatra to the Machail Mata shrine. Kishtwar, Aug 14 (ANI): Rescue operations are underway after a flash flood at the Chashoti area following a cloud burst, in Kishtwar on Thursday. (ANI Video Grab) The disaster marks the second major flood-related tragedy in India this month. Kishtwar cloudburst: Key Updates The cloudburst struck around 12 noon to 1pm. Officials received news of the calamity around 11:30 am, after which SDRF, rescue teams were deployed at the site. Indian Army, Navy, Air Force teams were also activated, said Jammu's Divisional Commissioner. Also Read | Heartbreaking images show homes, lives buried under sludge after cloudburst Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as grim in an official statement, confirming that a cloudburst was responsible for the flooding. Viral videos of the cloudburst captured torrents of muddy water, silt, and debris racing down the steep slopes, obliterating everything in their path. Houses crumpled like a pack of cards, while boulders crashed down, blocking roads and hampering rescue efforts. The once lush green landscape was left smothered in a bleak brown-grey. Omar Abdullah shared helpline numbers as the death toll from the cloudburst continued to rise. The August 15 at home tea party at the CM's residence, and other cultural events in the Union Territory planned for Independence Day, have been cancelled in the light of the tragedy. The formal events - speech, march past, will however, go ahead as planned. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences stating that every possible assistance will be provided to those in need. Actor Pavitra Gowda has been taken into custody after the Supreme Court set aside the bail granted to her by the High Court in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case. Fresh visuals from outside her residence show police presence as the arrest was carried out. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court cancelled the bail granted to Kannada actors Darshan Thoogudeepa and five others in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case on Thursday. A Supreme Court bench of Justice JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan pronounced the order on an appeal filed by the Karnataka government against the High Court order. "The order is set aside, and the bail granted to the accused is set aside," the Supreme Court said. Police will now arrest the accused, Hindustan Times reported. Why did SC cancel Darshan's bail? The Supreme Court held that the Karnataka High Court order that granted bail to the accused suffers from perversity and it went into witness' statement which is the prerogative of the trial court, Bar and Bench reported. It further noted that granting bail in such a serious case without adequately considering the nature and gravity of the offence, the accused role, the tangible interference with the trial are amongs perserve and unwarranted exercise discretion. The court said, "Justice Mahadevan has pronounced a very erudite judgment. It is ineffable. It conveys a message that however big the accused may be, he or she is not above the law." "It contains a strong message that the justice delivery system at any level should ensure at any cost that rule of law is maintained. No man is above law or below it. Nor do we ask anyone's permission when we obey it," the court said. "The need of the hour is to maintain rule of law at all times," Justice Pardiwala added," the bench added. The Supreme Court warned against providing special treatment to the accused in jail. "The day we come to know that the accused persons are being provided 5-star treatment, the first step would be to place the superintendent into suspension along with all other officials," the bench cautioned. Darshan Thoogudeepa is accused of torturing and murdering Renukaswamy, a fan of actor Pavithra Gowda. The dead body of 33-year-old auto-driver Renukaswamy was found on June 9. It was alleged that he died owing to injuries sustained in an attack carried out on Darshan's instructions. Darshan had allegedly abducted the deceased from Chitradurga and had him tortured for three days in a shed in Bengaluru in June 2024. Darshan allegedly called upon his fans to accost and kidnap Renukaswamy for making derogatory comments against Pavithra Gowda on social media. Darshan was arrested on June 11 last year. On October 30 last year, the Karnataka High Court granted him interim bail for six weeks on medical grounds. Subsequently, it granted regular bail to Darshan, Pavithra and five other accused on December 13, 2024. Independence Day 2025: Twenty-six officers and airmen of the Indian Air Force (IAF) have been conferred with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), recognising their exceptional courage in high-stakes missions including precision strikes on targets inside Pakistan and their pivotal role in operating the S-400 and other advanced air defence systems that successfully thwarted all planned Pakistani attacks on Indian soil. Who are the fighter pilots behind these daring missions? The decorated fighter pilots include: Gp Capt Ankur Hakim Gp Capt Manav Bhatia Gp Capt Yasir Faruqi Gp Capt Varun Bhoj Gp Capt Anuraj Singh Minhas Gp Capt Omar Browne, VM Gp Capt Deepak Chauhan Gp Capt Kunal Vishwas Shimpi Wg Cdr Rupak Roy Wg Cdr Devendra Babasaheb Autade Wg Cdr Mayank Paliwal Wg Cdr Deepak Dogra Wg Cdr Ravinder Kumar Wg Cdr Adarsh Gupta Wg Cdr Abhay Singh Bhadoria Wg Cdr Amandeep Singh Dihot Sqn Ldr Kaustubh Nalawade Sqn Ldr Mihir Vivek Chaudhari Sqn Ldr Rakesh Sharma Sqn Ldr Malapati NV Naveen Kumar Sqn Ldr Shubham Sharma Sqn Ldr Aman Singh Sqn Ldr Gaurav Khokher Flt Lt A Naveen Chandar Sgt Surendra Kumar Cpl Varunkumar S These names represent the frontline of Indias aerial operations, combining precision flying skills with split-second decision-making under combat conditions. What role did the S-400, Air Defence Teams play? Alongside the fighter squadrons, IAF personnel operating the S-400 air defence system and other ground-based interceptors were instrumental in neutralising potential aerial threats from Pakistan. The S-400 and other air defence teams were tasked with detecting and neutralising aerial threats during the operations. These units operated advanced surveillance and missile systems to track hostile aircraft and incoming weapons, ensuring that no Pakistani strikes reached Indian soil. BSF gallantry awards for Operation Sindoor In parallel, sixteen personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF) have also been honoured with gallantry medals for Operation Sindoor a retaliatory action conducted from 710 May, targeting terrorist and military installations in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation followed the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists. On Monday, the apex court directed municipal authorities to pick up and house all stray dogs in Delhi and parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) in dedicated shelters within eight weeks. This led to widespread outrage among citizens and animal advocacy groups who are concerned that the order may set a precedent for other cities and towns. On Thursday, the top court reserved its order on a plea seeking an interim stay on the 11 August order. To be sure, India has one of the highest burdens of rabies deaths globally, with dog bites being the primary cause. An estimated 5,700 people die from dog-mediated rabies annually in India, according to a 2024 Lancet study. A national plan to eliminate rabies caused by dog bites by 2030 is still underway, but the country has made significant strides in reducing cases. Amid the ongoing controversy, Mint takes a look at India's rabies vaccine market and examines how access is shaping up. The plan In accordance with the WHOs 2015 call to eliminate dog-mediated rabies by 2030, the Indian government in 2021 announced the National Action Plan for Rabies Elimination (NAPRE), which aims to eliminate dog-mediated rabies from the country by 2030. Under NAPRE, the state has issued a set of guidelines for states and stakeholders to develop their own action plans, and aims to reduce rabies risk through sustained mass dog vaccinations, pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis, and public education. Continued availability of the anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) and rabies immunoglobulins (RIG) is key to eliminating human rabies by 2030, a 2019 research paper by the Association for Prevention and Control of Rabies in India (APCRI) noted. Also Read | How to protect your pets from rabies The rise and drop in cases According to a fisheries, animal husbandry and dairying ministry press release, dated 1 April 2025, dog bite cases and deaths across the country have increased from 2022 to 2024. In 2022, the country reported close to 2.2 million cases. In 2023, this increased to 3.05 million, in 2024 to 3.7 million. In January 2025, there were over 400,000 reported cases of dog bites. Human deaths from rabies grew from 21 in 2022 to 50 in 2023 and 54 in 2024, according to the release. In January 2025, there was one reported case of death. It is important to note that many cases of dog bites go unreported due to a lack of awareness, and as people often dont get vaccinated in time. A recent study backed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and published in The Lancet, noted that India has made significant strides in reducing rabies-related deaths. In the past two decades, India has witnessed a 75% decline in dog-mediated human rabies deaths, most likely due to the increased availability of ARV and RIG in the health facilities, the study, which surveyed 534 health facilities across 60 districts in 15 states, stated. Is there a shortage of vaccines? According to the Lancet study, a majority of public healthcare facilities in India maintained stocks of anti-rabies vaccines. They were found in 80% of the facilities and 90% of secondary and tertiary care centres. Meanwhile, 95% of district hospitals and 92% of medical colleges had stocks. However, what is lacking is the availability of rabies immunoglobulins. Four out of five facilities surveyed lacked immunoglobulin stocks. The largest shortage was at the primary care level, where over 94% facilities lacked supplies. Immunoglobulins are administered around the wound to neutralise the virus, especially in cases of severe bites. This is followed by the administration of a series of 4-5 rabies vaccine shots over a period of 28 days. The course of treatment is decided based on the severity of the wound and the status of the animal. Immunoglobulins are critical in arresting the spread of the virus and preventing death. Reports of shortages in states and cities persist. Earlier this month, Times of India reported a shortage of vaccines in BMC-run hospitals in Mumbai. Chennai reported a shortage in June 2025. There is no shortage in the supply of vaccines, a National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC) official told Mint on the condition of anonymity. However, given that it is a decentralised procurement system, where states are allocated funds and procure vaccines on their own, there could be issues. In instances of disproportionate increase in animal bite cases, there may be issues with appropriate prediction and stocking at the state level, the official said. The central government released 68.86 crore in funds for procurement of vaccines to states in FY21. In FY22, 62.33 crore, 98.75 crore in FY23 and 99.77 crore in FY24, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfares written Rajya Sabha reply in December 2023. Who makes these vaccines? India is one of the largest manufacturers of rabies vaccines globally, and most of the countrys needs are met by indigenous products. Geographically, supply is 85% concentrated in China and India, a WHO global market study on human rabies vaccines from 2020 pointed out. There are currently ten manufacturers of anti-rabies vaccines in the country. The top selling brands are Rabivax by Serum Institute of India (SII), Abhayrab by Indian Immunologicals, and Chirorab by Bharat Biotech, according to data from pharma intelligence platform Pharmarack. Other players include Sun Pharma, Mankind Pharma, and Zydus Cadila. However, there are only four immunoglobulins manufactured in India - two by Mankind and two by Indian Immunologicals and Serum Institute which have a negligible market share. There are two types of immunoglobulin availableequine rabies immunoglobulins (RIGs), which are indigenously produced, and human RIGs, which are imported. Human RIGs are considered to be safer and more effective, especially in children, according to studies. The overall market for rabies vaccines in India was 266 crore in July 2025 on a moving annual total basis, according to Pharmarack, a B2B e-commerce platform. Of this, 240 crore was for ARVs and 25 crore for immunoglobulins. A total of 7,593 units of both ARV and RIG were sold as of July 2025. The number of units sold monthly has remained steady between 2023 and the current date, with a slight uptick in recent months, the data showed. Cost remains an issue in accessing rabies vaccines as well. While they are provided free of charge in public facilities, the cost of one vial of ARV is typically between 350 and 400 in private hospitals. According to the WHO, the cost of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), the regimen of human RIG and ARV administered after the bite, is the highest in Asia. Kannada actor Darshan Thogudeepa and actress Pavithra Gowda were arrested on Thursday after the Supreme Court cancelled their bail in the Renukaswamy murder case. Darshan was arrested at his wife Vijayalakshmis house in Hosakerehalli in Bengaluru. The actor wanted to evade arrest and surrender in court, but the police got information about his stay and arrested him, reported PTI quoting sources. Also Read | Supreme Court cancels bail granted to actor Darshan in Renukaswamy murder case The SC observed that persons regardless of popularity are equal before the law. It directed the authorities to take Darshan and other accused into custody forthwith and ordered that the trial be conducted expeditiously. A Supreme Court bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan quashed the interim bail granted to Darshan by the Karnataka High Court, stating that the bail was granted without adequate consideration of the witness intimidation and other illegalities. The Karnataka government had moved the top court against Darshan's bail order. In a reaction to Thursdays order, advocate DL Chidananda, representing the state government, said the SC stated that the Karnataka HC's decision did not follow the principles of granting bail. Chidananda told ANI: "The Supreme Court said that the High Court has not followed the principles of law which apply for granting bail. It also reiterated that the rule of law prevails in the country and, however influential an individual may be, they must be treated in accordance with the law." Pavithra Gowda, the prime accused in Renukaswamy murder case, was arrested from her house soon after the news broke that the bail of all the accused in the murder case was cancelled, according to news agency PTIciting police sources. Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister's legal advisor, AS Ponnanna, said that granting Darshan bail would have hampered the investigation and trial. He said: "The state government and the prosecution agency were vindicated... It was the state government's decision that, in a case like this, where a serious offence has been registered, granting him bail would hamper the investigation and trial, as he is a powerful person. They did not want him to use his muscle to derail the prosecution's case." According to media reports, 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan of actor Darshan, had allegedly sent obscene messages to Gowda, which enraged Darshan, allegedly leading to his murder. His body was found near a stormwater drain next to an apartment in Sumanahalli in Bengaluru on June 9, 2024. The Union ministry of petroleum and natural gas has outlined a strategic plan to meet Indias energy needs by 2047, the year the government aims to attain developed nation status. In a recent meeting, the ministry discussed pathways to develop a unified strategic vision for shaping Indias energy future and aligning national priorities with key Indian and global energy trends, petroleum and natural gas minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on X on Thursday. Also Read | Atomic hype: Nuclear energy is a story of more frisson than fission The meeting gains significance as it has been held in the backdrop of the ongoing tariff wars and geopolitical tensions. "In an insightful strategic plan, we outlined the pathbreaking changes India needs to introduce in order to meet the energy needs of 2047. The presentation discussed pathways to develop a unified strategic vision for shaping Indias energy future; align national priorities with key Indian and global energy trends, how to Make in India for the World, advancing energy self-reliance and sustainability through reforms, enhance domestic output, value maximisation of mature fields, and the creation of future-ready energy ecosystems in the country, said his tweet. We also discussed ways and the need for strengthening the @PetroleumMin organization and capabilities for future readiness to be able to deliver, he added. Also Read | Clean energy push: Govt races to build transmission firms to meet 2030 goal India's energy demand has been growing and has touched new record levels in the past few years. According to data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell, India's petroleum product demand continues to remain robust, with consumption seen at a record 252.9 million tonnes for the ongoing fiscal year (2025-26). This is 4.65% higher than the 241.8 million tonnes projected for 2024-25, driven by key transport fuels petrol and diesel. This would be the third year in a row that India's petroleum product consumption has hit a record high. At a time when global oil demand is expected to taper down in the years ahead amid economic slowdown concerns and the transition towards electric mobility, India has emerged as one of the few outliers. To be sure, the transition to electric mobility, having started only recently, is expected to gain pace and penetrate the automobile market in a significant way going ahead. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Indias demand for oil will increase more than any other country at a million barrels per day (bpd) over the next five years, making it the main driver of global demand growth. The meeting for charting the plan to meet the long-term energy demand also gains significance as India aims to become the refining and petrochemical hub of the world. Former diplomat Vikas Swarup explained on Wednesday why he believes the United States' relationship with Pakistan is short-term. The former High Commissioner to Canada and author of Slumdog Millionaire, Swarup said, We have to look at US' relationship with Pakistan in a different lens from the US' relationship with India. In an interview with news agency ANI, Swarup said he believes that the relationship with Pakistan right now is a very tactical one and is a short-term one. Also Read | Terrorists attack police station near Peshawar on Pakistan's Independence Day He added that the US' relationship with Pakistan is primarily motivated by the financial gain that the [US President Donald] Trump family and [US' Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve] Witkoff family hope to make from the cryptocurrency assets in Pakistan. Explaining his view about the US' relation with India, Vikas Swarup said, With India, I think, the relationship is much more strategic. It is not so transactional as it is with Pakistan. That is why I personally feel that it is a passing phase, he said. Also Read | Why Pakistan marks Independence Day a day before India? I call it a storm, not a rupture. You just have to wait out the storms. All storms eventually pass, the ex-diplomat added. Pakistan, the Crypto King Vikas Swarup told ANI that Pakistan is reportedly positioning itself as the Crypto King of South Asia, possibly through its association with World Liberty Financial, which has ties to Trump's family and Steve Witkoff's family. More importantly, I think Pakistan is now trying to position itself as the 'Crypto King' of South Asia and there, through World Liberty Financial, in which Trump's family has stakes, Steve Witkoff's family has a stake, through that I think Pakistan has managed to project an image of itself as a reliable partner...All these things have led to Trump having a softer approach towards Pakistan, said the former diplomat. On Trump's tariff against India When asked about Trump's highest tariff on imported Indian goods, Vikas Swarup stressed that these tariffs are part of a broader strategy to exert pressure and secure favourable trade terms from India. "But that does not mean that he has given up on India or that India is now an adversary for him. I think this is part of his pressure tactics to secure a more favourable deal. India should not cave in because our strategic autonomy is non-negotiable," Swarup told ANI. In July, US President Donald Trump announced a 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods along with an unspecified penalty. Days later, he imposed another 25 per cent tariff, bringing the total to 50 per cent, citing India's purchase of Russian oil. If you cave in to a bully Swarup said that India has not caved in to US pressure. He said, India should not cave in because our strategic autonomy is non-negotiable. Attacking Trump over his huge tariffs, Swarup said, ...If you cave in to a bully then the bully will increase his demands. Then there will be even more demands. NEW DELHI : Prime Minister Narendra Modis Independence Day address could return to one of his signature themes: Atmanirbhar Bharat, or self-reliant India. He may present it as the centrepiece of the National Democratic Alliances (NDA) plan to propel Indias $4-trillion economyprojected to be the worlds fourth largest in 2025-26towards its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, two people close to the matter said. Against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical frictions, trade disputes, and recent military action, Modi is likely to frame economic resilience, defence capability, and strategic autonomy as the pillars of the countrys way forward. This year will mark Modis 12th consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, a milestone achieved by only two of his predecessors, Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. India is celebrating its 79th Independence Day on 15 August. From that symbolic perch, India's prime minister traditionally outlines a vision for the nation, blending policy announcements with a call to collective purpose. Amid shifting global currents and rising geopolitical pressures, the Prime Minister could place Atmanirbhar Bharat at the heart of his message," said the first of the two persons mentioned above, on the condition of anonymity. The address comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, Indias military response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists in April. Modi could also highlight the armed forces successes in striking terrorist camps across the border in Pakistan, while reaffirming that the campaign will continue until every terrorist threat is eliminated, the first person added. This also offers the opportunity to showcase Indias own armaments and weapon systems globally. On global headwinds The self-reliance message, which gained traction during the covid-19 pandemic as a push for self-sufficiency, is likely to be reinvigorated amid new global headwinds. In recent weeks, the US has doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, citing New Delhis energy ties with Moscow. Against this backdrop, Modi could underscore the vocal for local" mantra, positioning homegrown brands, zero-defect, zero-effect" manufacturing, and indigenous innovation as shields against external shocks, said the second person, on the condition of anonymity. He is also likely to assure farmers, manufacturers, the dairy sector, and fishermen that their interests will not be sacrificed, even at significant cost," the second person added. Experts expect Modis speech to have defence-related, political and economic dimensions, although it is very hard to predict what he may say. The adoption of the defence philosophy that acts of terrorism are indeed acts of war may be highlighted as Indias guiding approach to respond to any terrorist activity," said A.K. Verma, director of the independent think tank Centre for the Study of Society and Politics. Also Read | Modi, Putin vow to deepen ties defying Trump tariffs Verma expects the Prime Ministers speech to reflect the shift in Indias foreign policy from one of equidistance to everyone to equal closeness to everyone. Modi had articulated this policy shift in March. This is a significant shift," said Verma. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister may counter US President Donald Trumps description of India as a dead economy" by citing its growth momentum and projections, placing it on course to become the worlds third-largest economy. India has a big domestic market. The tariffs are not going to have an impact on Indias gross domestic product (GDP). However, this is a great opportunity to expand our exports to markets that have not received focused attention in the past. Stepping up exports to multiple small markets will collectively give a strong positive boost to Indian exports," added Verma. Hints may emerge of fresh stimulus measures for exporters, aimed at widening Indias footprint in global markets," said the first person. Already, the government is working on an economic package under an export promotion mission to energize Indias export growth at a time when global trade faces prolonged headwinds, the person added. Modi could call on the countrys technologists to develop solutions rooted in local realities, serving villages, small towns, and rural industries first, not as an act of isolationism but as strategic empowerment," the person said. On foreign policy The Prime Minister could emphasize Indias commitment to strategic autonomy: Maintaining diverse partnerships while protecting democratic values and national priorities. The broader message will be one of resilience that Atmanirbhar Bharat is not a retreat from the world, but a confident stride into it, unshaken by tariff disputes or geopolitical pressures, and anchored in the promise of inclusive growth," said the second person. Modi would also reiterate the governments commitment to its peoplewomen, youth, farmers, and the poor. These four pillars have been integral to the Modi governments vision. He, while touching these pillars, may also announce new schemes. A spokesperson of the Prime Ministers Office didnt respond to Mint's emailed queries. Dhirendra Kumar and Vijay C. Roy in New Delhi contributed to the story. Except the colour of the flags, the Islamic motifs and a 24-hour time lag, Independence Day across the Radcliffe Line in Pakistan is not much different from Indias very own celebrations. Declared a national holiday, Pakistan's Independence Day or Yaum-i-Azadi - on August 14 takes place in capital Islamabad, where the national flag is hoisted at the Presidential and Parliament buildings. It is followed by the national anthem and live televised speeches by leaders. The usual celebratory events and festivities for the day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and the playing of patriotic songs, combined with several award-giving ceremonies. As in India, Pakistanis hoist the national flag atop their homes or display it prominently on their vehicles and their attires, amid much joy and fanfare. Might as well be Indias own Swantantra Divas, in the eyes of a casual observer, except for the flavour. "Things are pretty much the same, but unlike India, in Pakistan, it is a feeling of otherness. It is not so much about getting independence from colonial rule as it is about the victory of partition and the greatness of the Pakistan movement, says Vijay Nambiar, former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan. India does not celebrate Independence Day under Pakistans shadow. For us, it is freedom from colonial rule, he told this reporter. Pakistans Independence Day date was not always sacrosanct The founder of Pakistan, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, said as much in his first broadcast to the nation: "August 15 is the birthday of the independent and sovereign state of Pakistan. It marks the fulfilment of the destiny of the Muslim nation, which made great sacrifices in the past few years to have its homeland." The date of Pakistans Independence Day was not always sacrosanct. The first commemorative postage stamps of the country, released in July 1948, give August 15, 1947, as Pakistan's Independence Day. However, in subsequent years August 14 was adopted as Independence Day. Early in 1947, Britains Labour government appointed Lord Louis Mountbatten as the last Viceroy of India. He was charged with the responsibility of overseeing the transfer of power from British control to Indian hands. This transfer was initially fixed for not later than June 1948. But increasing communal violence and worsening law and order compelled Mountbatten to advance the date to August 1947 with a view to hastening the British withdrawal. According to Partition Studies, Mountbatten noted Jinnah's adamant refusal to accept anything less than a separate Pakistan, even with loose or firm ties to India, making the break inevitable. Mountbatten administered the independence oath to Jinnah on August 14, before leaving for India where the oath was scheduled on the midnight of the 15th. In addition, the night of August 1415, 1947, coincided with 27 Ramadan 1366 of the Islamic calendar, regarded as sacred by Muslims. Mountbatten - or Admiral of the Fleet Louis Francis Albert Victor Nicholas Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma - later revealed that he selected August 15 in part simply because it happened to be the second anniversary of Japan's surrender at the end of World War II, a date which represented the conclusion of imperial conflict and not nationalist jubilation. Ukraine plans to start temporary repair work on the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) in autumn 2025, the IAEA reported on its website on August 13, citing the agency's Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. "The IAEA team was informed that the Ukrainian State regulator, SNRIU, is reviewing the documentation related to the repairs," the agency said. As reported on its website, the IAEA will support Ukraine's efforts to repair the NSC, under the framework of a Memorandum of Understanding signed during the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2025, held in Rome at the beginning of July 2025. As reported with reference to IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi on April 30, Ukrainian engineers and builders were continuing temporary repairs to the NSC over the Shelter structure above the destroyed reactor of Unit 4 of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, damaged as a result of a drone attack in February of this year. On July 1, 2025, the fifth grant agreement was signed between the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the State Specialized Enterprise (SSE) Chornobyl NPP for the implementation of the project, which provides for an analysis of the damage caused and the development of an action plan for temporary repairs of the outer skin and sealing membrane of the New Safe Confinement. It is expected that the full restoration of the NSC, even with the appropriate funding, will take several years, but during this process considerable attention will be paid not only to technical aspects, but also to ensuring maximum safety for the environment, as well as for people working on the territory of the Chornobyl NPP and in the exclusion zone. India on Thursday warned the Pakistani leadership regarding the frequent war-mongering and hateful comments against India. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised Pakistan to temper its rhetoric, failing which the country can face 'painful consequences' as demonstrated recently in Operation Sindoor. We have seen several statements, reports regarding a continuing pattern of war-mongering and hateful comments against India. It is a well-known modus operandi of Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric to hide their own failure, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a routine press conference on Thursday. The MEA reaction comes after back-to-back statements and threats by Pakistani leadership against India. It started last week when Asim Munir, during his US visit, threatened to plunge the region into a nuclear war if Islamabad faced an existential threat. What did Asim Munir say? "We are a nuclear nation; if we think we are going down, well take half the world down with us, reported The Print, quoting Field Marshal Asim Munir as saying. 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. 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. Pakistan would be well advised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences. In response, the MEA spokesperson said on Thursday that Pakistan would be well advised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences as demonstrated recently Maharashtra: What started as a casual chat between a man and a girl in a cafe, soon took a shocking turn with the man being allegedly beaten to death in Maharashtra's Jalgaon district. The man, Suleiman Khan, aged 20 years, was allegedly beaten to death by ten persons after they spotted him chatting with a girl, police officials said on Wednesday, reported PTI. Four individuals were also arrested in connection with the case. The four accused were produced before a local court, which remanded them in police custody even as a search for the mastermind of the crime is underway. How the man was attacked The man, a resident of Betawad Khurd village, had gone to Jamner to fill the form for a police recruitment exam on Monday. He was chatting with a girl in a cafe when ten individuals confronted him and launched an assault on him, said police officials. The group then forced Khan back to his village, where they attacked him with sticks and iron rods at the local bus stand. When his family tried to intervene, they too were beaten up. Khan was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead, the official said. Why was the man beaten to death? Police suspect an old enmity led to the murder of Suleiman Khan, who was preparing for the police recruitment exam, reported PTI. The incident created tension in Jamner, leading to the deployment of a posse of police personnel in sensitive areas. Khan's relatives and locals gathered at Jamner police station on Monday night, demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits and stringent action. Case registered under BNS A case was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for kidnapping, rioting, and murder. Observing Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid a tribute to the people who endured the "upheaval and pain" of the Partition of India. Sharing an X post, PM Modi called the Partition a tragic chapter of Indian history. "India observes Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grit...their ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh," PM Modi wrote. Amit Shah, in a post on X, said, Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is a day to express condolences by remembering the pain of those who suffered due to the partition of the country and its tragedy. On this day, the Congress party divided the nation into pieces, hurting the pride of Mother India. He futher noted, The partition led to violence, exploitation, and atrocities, and millions of people endured displacement. I offer my heartfelt tribute to all those people. The country will never forget this history and pain of the partition. I offer my tribute to those who lost their lives in this horror of the partition. Earlier today, Union Health Minister and BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda called for national unity and give a befitting reply to anti-national forces. Paying tribute to millions who while "enduring agony of displacement", sacrificed their lives, the senior BJP leader said in a post on X, The dark day of 1947 reminds us of that cruel event when the citizens of the nation suffered the merciless pain of migration and, enduring inhuman torture, lost their homes, property, and lives. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said, Partition Horrors Remembrance Day: Not a mere part of history, but etched in our national consciousness. 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. Also Read: Chronicling inherited memories of the Partition India attained its freedom from British rule on 15th August, 1947. Independence Day, which is celebrated on 15th August every year, is a joyous and proud occasion for any nation; however, with the sweetness of freedom came also the trauma of partition. The birth of the newly independent Indian nation was accompanied by violent pangs of partition that left permanent scars on millions of Indians. The partition caused the largest migrations in human history, affecting about 20 million people. Millions of families had to abandon their ancestral villages/towns/cities and were forced to find a new life as refugees. Exhibitions at Railway stations Meanwhile, Railway stations across the country will showcase exhibitions on Thursday to commemorate the sufferings, trauma and displacements experienced by millions of people during the partition of India in 1947. An exhibition has been prepared by the culture ministry for the Observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day (PHRD), commemorated every year on August 14. "The Government of India has decided to observe PHRD, 2025 with a series of commemorative activities to be carried out across the country on August 14, 2025. In this regard, the Ministry of Culture has curated an exhibition to showcase the sufferings of the partition-affected people," the railway ministry said in a written communication to all its zones. A Local Circle survey revealed that 71 percent of the total respondents "fully supported the latest Supreme Court order of removing all stray dogs from Delhi NCR within 8 weeks and moving them into shelters. Only 24 percent of respondents said they "dont support the order and 5 percent of respondents did not give a clear answer. The survey said the result clearly showed that a large majority of residents of Delhi NCR "are in favour of their municipality executing the two judge bench order." The Local Circle's survey received 12,816 responses from residents of Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad and Ghaziabad. As many as 62 percent respondents were men, while 38 percent respondents were women. Supreme Court reserves order on stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR The Supreme Court on Thursday, 14 August, reserved an order on a prayer seeking an interim stay on the 11 August order, in which the two-judge bench ordered shifting Delhi-NCR stray dogs to shelter homes. During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked local authorities about their position on implementing the Animal Birth Control rules. The three-judge bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath said, "The whole problem is because of inaction of local authorities". The bench, also comprising Justices Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria, said everyone who has moved the apex court and filed intervention will have to own responsibility. The hearing on Thursday followed widespread protests against the Supreme Court's earlier order directing the blanket removal of stray dogs from all DelhiNCR areas. The Supreme Court had passed a slew of directions on August 11 while hearing a suo motu case initiated on July 28 over stray dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children, in the national capital The Supreme Court on Thursday, 14 August, reserved an order on a prayer seeking an interim stay on the 11 August order, in which the two-judge bench ordered shifting Delhi-NCR stray dogs to shelter homes, legal news website Bar and Bench reported. The three-judge bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and NV Anjaria heard the case. The hearing followed widespread protests against the top court's earlier order directing the blanket removal of stray dogs from all DelhiNCR areas. Also Read | Stray Dogs Supreme Court Hearing LIVE: Order reserved on dogs issue On 11 August, the two-judge bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan observed instances of dog bites had given rise to an extremely grim situation and ordered the permanent relocation of all strays in Delhi-NCR at the earliest. During Thursday's hearing, the Supreme Court asked local authorities about their position on implementing the Animal Birth Control rules. The court said that the whole problem is due to inaction by authorities in implementing the rules. Rules and laws are framed by the Parliament, but they are not followed. The whole problem is because of the inaction of local authorities.. Rules are framed, but no implementation is carried out, creating a problem today. On one hand, humans suffering, on the other hand, animal lovers want dogs protected, the court said. On the one hand, humans are suffering, and on the other hand, animals are suffering, and animal lovers are here. The problem is because of inaction by authorities. On 13 August, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai withdrew the suo motu case on stray dogs from the bench of justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan. During the hearing on Thursday, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, said he has seen people posting videos of eating and then claiming to be animal lovers. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for an NGO that looks after dogs, said the situation was very serious and needed to be argued in depth. Sibal sought a stay on the 11 August directions passed by the Supreme Court. The India wing of the American animal rights organisation People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) termed the Supreme Courts order to send all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters within eight weeks impractical, illogical, and illegal. PETA India said the forced removal of Delhis community dogs would create chaos and suffering for both the animals and residents. Supreme Court Hearing on Stray Dogs LIVE Updates: The Supreme Court, while reserving its order on a plea seeking a stay on its August 11 directive, remarked on Thursday that the stray dog issue in Delhi-NCR stems from the "inaction" of local authorities. While hearing the matter on Thursday, a three-judge bench headed by Justice Vikram Nath said, The whole problem is because of the inaction of local authorities, PTI reported. On August 11, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan observed instances of dog bites had given rise to an "extremely grim" situation and ordered the permanent relocation of all strays in Delhi-NCR "at the earliest". On Wednesday, the lawyer referred to a May 2024 order passed by a bench led by Justice J K Maheshwari relegating petitions relating to the stray dog issue to respective high courts. The plea by Conference for Human Rights (India) claims the Animal Birth Control (Dog) Rules, 2001 mandating regular sterilisation and immunisation programmes for stray dogs to curtail their growing population are not being complied with. Get all the Stray Dogs Supreme Court Hearing LIVE Updates here on Mint! India will celebrate its Independence Day on August 15. However, many people argue it should be the 78th because 2025 minus 1947 equals 78 years since independence. Others say it is the 79th Indepedence Day. The confusion comes from how celebrations are counted. Indias first Independence Day was on August 15, 1947, itself. From then, each years celebration adds to the count. In 2025, 78 full years have passed since freedom, but the event will be celebrated for the 79th time. This is because the counting is inclusive, starting from 1947. So, while India has completed 78 years of independence, the 2025 celebration is the 79th occasion. 79th Independence Day celebrations India will celebrate its 79th Independence Day with the theme Naya Bharat. The theme reflects the goal of a prosperous, self-reliant nation by 2047. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag at the Red Fort, assisted by Flying Officer Rashika Sharma. There will be a 21-gun salute. An IAF band featuring Agniveer Vayu musicians will play the national anthem. Two Mi-17 helicopters will shower flower petals. Around 5,000 guests, including sanitation workers and grassroots champions, will attend the ceremony in New Delhi. Also Read | 15 August: 5 countries that share the same historic date with India The event will include parades, cultural shows, and the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. Public convenience measures will include early metro services, cloakrooms and wheelchair assistance. 79th Independence Day: 10 quotes to share on social media Here are 10 inspiring quotes about India to share on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day: You can chain me, you can torture me, you can even destroy this body, but you will never imprison my mind. - Mahatma Gandhi Even if I have to face death a thousand times for my motherland, I shall not be sorry. - Bhagat Singh Every citizen of India must remember that he is an Indian and he has every right in this country but with certain duties. - Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Also Read | How Rashtrapati Bhavan will celebrate eastern heritage on 15 August Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country. - Jawaharlal Nehru It is blood alone that can pay the price of freedom. Give me blood, and I will give you freedom. - Subhas Chandra Bose Our nation is like a tree of which the original trunk is swarajya and the branches are swadeshi and boycott. - Bal Gangadhar Tilak This is your country; this is your motherland. Be worthy of it. - Chandrashekhar Azad The preservation of freedom is the task of soldiers alone. The whole nation has to be strong. - Lal Bahadur Shastri Sarfaroshi ki tamanna ab hamare dil mein hai, dekhna hai zor kitna, bazu-e-qatil mein hai. - Ram Prasad Bismil Samajwadi Party on Thursday, 14 August, expelled Pooja Pal, the party's Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Chail seat in Kaushambi district of Uttar Pradesh. The expulsion came hours after Pooja Pal praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his zero tolerance policy against crime. The Samajwadi Party cited her anti-party activities for the decision. You have carried out anti-party activities, and even after being warned, you did not stop these activities, due to which the party has suffered a lot. The work done by you is anti-party and a serious act of indiscipline. Hence, you are expelled from Samajwadi Party with immediate effect, read the letter. Also Read | Three children among 11 dead as vehicle plunges into UP's Gonda canal Pooja Pal stood by her statement after her removal, lauding CM Yogi Adityanath's governance for improving law and order in the state. Perhaps you could not hear the women in Prayagraj who were even more worried than I. But I am their voice, I have been elected as an MLA and sent to the Assembly. I am the voice of mothers and sisters who have lost their loved ones. They have sent me here. All people in Prayagraj who were disturbed due to Atiq Ahmed have been given justice by the CM, not just to Pooja Pal. I have been saying this from day 1, even when I was at the party. I was expelled only today. I stand by my statement, she said. Who is Pooja Pal? Pooja Pal is the widow of former BSP MLA Raju Pal, who was murdered merely 10 days after their marriage. Mafia don Atiq Ahmed's brother, Ashraf, was accused of killing Raju Pal. Pooja was pitted against Atiq Ahmed's brother Ashraf by the BSP in a bypoll from Allahabad city's western seat. She lost. She was again given a BSP ticket in the 2007 elections. In 2012, she was re-elected to the seat. Mayawati reportedly sacked her from BSP in February 2018 after she met with BJP leader and Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. Pooja joined the Samajwadi Party in 2019 and successfully contested the 2022 Assembly election from Kaushambi district's Chail seat. Thanked Yogi for acting against criminals Earlier, while speaking in the UP Assembly, Pooja Pal thanked Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for the zero-tolerance policy against crime that improved law and order in the state. She said UP CM gave her justice by bringing in policies like zero tolerance that led to the killing of criminals like Atiq Ahmed. Everyone knows who murdered my husband (Raju Pal). I want to thank the Chief Minister for bringing me justice and hearing me when nobody else did. The CM gave justice to many other women like me in Prayagraj by bringing in policies like zero tolerance that led to the killing of criminals like Atiq Ahmed. Today, the entire state looks at the CM with trust, she said. Mere pati ke hatyare Atiq Ahmed ko Mukhya Mantri ne mitti mein milaane ka kaam kiya' (The Chief Minister has buried my husband's murderer Atiq Ahmed, she said. How was Ragu Pal killed? BSP MLA Ragu Pal was shot dead in Prayagraj in 2005, days after his wedding with Pooja Pal. In February 2023, Umesh Pal, a key witness to the murder, was shot dead in Prayagraj's Sulem Saray area. Several rounds were fired, and bombs were hurled at Umesh and his gunners. The Chief Minister has buried my husband's murderer Atiq Ahmed. Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf Ahmad were the prime accused and were arrested by the police. On 15 April 2023, they were shot dead by men posing as press persons while being taken for a medical examination in Prayagraj by police. Kishtwar Cloudburst: A devastating cloudburst triggered by intense rainfall has wreaked havoc in Kishtwar district, killing at least 37 people and injuring over 100. Authorities say the toll could rise as rescue operations continue in the remote Himalayan region. What happened in Kishtwar? According to officials, powerful torrents of water and debris surged down the mountains, striking Chashoti village with little warning. The impact was so severe that authorities have yet to provide a clear estimate of the number of people missing. Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as grim in an official statement, confirming that a cloudburst was responsible for the flooding. The disaster marks the second major flood-related tragedy in India this month. Kishtwar Cloudburst: What rescue measures are in place? Crowds gathered outside Kishtwar hospital as medical teams treated the injured, with some victims being carried in on stretchers by local residents, AFP reported. Authorities have established multiple helplines and control rooms to coordinate rescue and relief operations Help Desk / Control Room Numbers for Kishtwar Cloudburst Gulabgarh Paddar Help Desk Susheel Kumar, NT Sohal 9858223125 6006701934 Koushal Parihar, JE PMGSY 9797504078 Ayaz Ahmad, JE PWD (R&B) Paddar 8492886895 Badri Nath Shan, Inspector RDD 8493801381 Rajinder Rathore, VLW 7006463710 District Control Room 01995259555 / 9484217492 PCR Kishtwar 9906154100 Why was Independence Day eve At Home tea party cancelled by Omar Abdullah? In light of the tragedy, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the traditional At Home tea party scheduled for 15 August evening would be cancelled. We have also decided not to go ahead with the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. The formal events speech, march past etc will go ahead as planned, CM Abdullah wrote. Cloudburst in Himalayas Floods on August 5 swept away the Himalayan town of Dharali in Uttarakhand state and buried it in mud. The likely death toll from that disaster is more than 70 but has yet to be confirmed. Floods and landslides are common during the monsoon season from June to September, but experts say climate change, coupled with poorly planned development, is increasing their frequency and severity. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has announced plans to construct dog shelters in all 12 of its civic zones and introduce a dedicated helpline for residents to report stray animals. The move follows recent Supreme Court observations holding local authorities accountable for long-standing inaction in addressing the national capitals stray dog population. Also Read | Nearly Headless Singhvi? SC hearing on stray dogs gets unlikely comic relief What Prompted the MCDs New Measures? The Supreme Court is currently hearing petitions challenging an earlier directive to relocate stray dogs to shelters. During Thursdays hearing, the bench remarked that the whole problem in Delhi-NCR stemmed from the failure of civic bodies to act. The court has reserved its verdict on the matter. Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh reaffirmed the civic bodys commitment to following the courts directions while maintaining humane treatment of animals. We will do everything possible to address this problem. At the same time, we are also concerned about the welfare of animals, he said. Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma noted that although shelter construction is in progress, the process is hindered by challenges in land allocation. How Will the Stray Dog Helpline Work in Delhi-NCR? The new helpline will allow residents to inform the MCD about stray dogs in their localities. Once a call is received, municipal teams will pick up the animals. More non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are also being enlisted to accelerate sterilisation and vaccination drives. Also Read | Supreme Court reserves order on stray dogs issue in Delhi-NCR What Do the Dog Bite Numbers in Delhi-NCR Say? MCD officials report that on average 10,000 dogs are sterilised and vaccinated every month. Between January and June 2025, more than 65,000 strays underwent the procedure. The civic body aims to cover nearly 98,000 dogs between April 2024 and December 2025, following 79,959 in 202324 and 59,076 in 202223. At present, 20 sterilisation centres operate in Delhi, managed by registered NGOs under the Animal Birth Control (ABC) rules, which mandate that animals be returned to their original locations after the procedure. Are Dog Bites on the Rise in Delhi-NCR? The MCD has recorded 26,334 dog bite cases so far in 2025 9,920 at municipal hospitals and 15,010 at its anti-rabies vaccination (ARV) centres. In 2024, the total reached 68,090 cases. The civic body currently holds 5,471 ARV doses and 3,736 anti-rabies serum (ARS) doses in stock. A Balancing Act Between Public Health and Animal Welfare The Il-96 government aircraft of the Special Flight Unit "Russia," flight RSD 381, departed from the Russian Vnukovo airport near Moscow at 7:50 a.m. and is headed to Anchorage, Alaska, where it is scheduled to land in about six hours, at 6:43 a.m. on Friday local time and 5:43 p.m. on Thursday Kyiv time. According to the Flightradar service, the aircraft is currently flying along the Russian coast of the Arctic Ocean. It is not accompanied by any other aircraft identified by the service. It is currently unknown who is on board the aircraft, and whether Vladimir Putin, in particular, is flying on it. At the same time, Russian media, citing sources, report that the Russian delegation that will take part in the meeting between Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Anchorage on Friday will include Putin's special representative for investment and economic cooperation with foreign countries, Kirill Dmitriev. As reported, Trump's meeting with Putin is scheduled for August 15 in Alaska, at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base in Anchorage. The US President intends to focus on the issue of ending the war in Ukraine at the meeting, other topics are not a priority. The leaders of 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. Chicago's skies are all set to roar as the Chicago Air and Water Show is all set to take flight this weekend. The highlight? This years show will recognise the 250th anniversary of the United States Army and United States Marine Corps. The Chicago Air and Water Show is an annual spectacle held along the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago. Since its inception in 1959, it has grown into the largest free admission air and water exhibition in the United States. When, where is the show The Chicago Air and Water Show, presented by the City of Chicago will take place from August 16-17, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the main viewing area centered at North Avenue Beach. Star attractions: Thunderbirds, more As per the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, this year's air and water show will feature the US Air Force Thunderbirds and the US Army Parachute Team in the spotlight. The show will also include: U.S Air Force C-17 Demo - 15th Airlift Squadron Illinois Air National Guard KC-135 - 126th Air Refueling Wing Maryland Air National Guard A-10's - 104th Fighter Squadron US Coast Guard Search & Rescue Demo US Marine Corps MV-22 (Osprey) Demo - Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365 Bill Stein Airshows Mini Jet Airshows Tom Larkin Muscle Biplane Machaira Bob Richards Super Stearman "Big Red" Susan Dacy Warbird Thunder Airshows. Who's the voice behind the show? Just like all the years, Herb Hunter will be in action on the announcer's stand for the coveted show. Best spots to watch the show The Chicago Air and Water Shows main action unfolds at North Avenue Beach, but spectators can catch the performances from anywhere along the lakefront between Fullerton Avenue and Oak Street. Many rooftop bars and waterfront restaurants have unobstructed views, and several cruise companies offer special cruises on the day of the Air and Water Show. Is parking available? As per City of Chicago's website, there is no public parking at the beach over Air and Water weekend. No public seating areas are provided or overseen by staff at the event. How to watch the show online WBBM Newsradio 780 / 105.9 will broadcast the show live on both the radio and the free Audacy app, as per the City of Chicago. Also Read | Chicago White Sox sign former All-Star pitcher Noah Syndergaard to minor league Ahead of the Alaska meeting to discuss peace in Ukraine, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday threatened severe consequences if his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, does not agree to peace. However, in another statement, Donald Trump also proposed a meeting between him, Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Donald Trump did not specify the warning he gave to Putin, but only warned of very severe consequences. Earlier, Trump warned of economic sanctions if his meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday, 15 August, proved fruitless. When asked if Russia would face any consequences if Putin did not agree to stop the war after their Alaska meeting, Trump responded, Yes, they will. When asked if those severe consequences would be sanctions or tariffs, Donald Trump said, I don't have to say. There will be very severe consequences. ANOTHER MEETING WITH ZELENSKY? TRUMP ANSWERS The president said the Alaska meeting between the two leaders was aimed at setting the table for a swift follow-up involving Zelensky if his meeting with Putin is successful. 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 Zelensky and myself, if they'd like to have me there. 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. 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, Zelensky and other European leaders. Trump has said any major agreement could involve land swaps and that Zelensky 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. The Centre is increasingly concerned about the potential impact of worsening relations with the US on the large Indian diaspora, particularly in the tech sector, people aware of the discussions said. Senior officials told a parliamentary panel that they were concerned about the fallout on Indian professionals and students in the US including job losses and tighter immigration policies. This comes at a time when India and the US have differed over market access for various American goods, and the US has objected to India's purchase of Russian oil. The concerns were flagged by the government, represented by senior officials such as foreign secretary Vikram Misri, commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal, and Indias chief negotiator for the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the US Rajesh Agarwal, during a recent meeting of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs. The officials told the committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, that the trade logjam may impact Indian professionals working in the US, said one of the three people cited above. Also Read | India wants steel, aluminium tariffs to be part of trade agreement with US The Indian diaspora contributes significantly through remittances, which extending India's soft power and acting as a crucial buffer against global economic uncertainties. While the absolute number of Indian students and workers in the US is not available, it is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands. Queries emailed to the ministries of external affairs, commerce, and Tharoor remained unanswered. The officials' alert comes as new data highlights a cooling job market for foreign workers in the US. Registrations for Indian H-1B visas for 2026 dropped by 27% to 358,000, and were more than 54% lower than the prior year. Only 120,141 of these registrations were selected to move forward, well above the annual 85,000 visa cap. The H-1B programme is a critical pathway for Indian tech workers seeking jobs in the US. "Strained trade ties could bring tighter visa rules, higher compliance demands, and caution in hiring, especially in tech and professional services," said Sonal Arora, country manager, GI Group Holding, a global staffing solutions provider. But with their adaptability, strong professional networks, and proven expertise, Indian professionals are likely to adjust quickly, find new opportunities, and continue playing a key role in strengthening economic and cultural connections," said Arora. The US has recently ramped up pressure on India in trade talks, imposing a 25% tariff on certain Indian goods in late July and a second 25% tariff on August 6 as a penalty for India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The second tariff is set to take effect just as a US negotiating team arrives in New Delhi for another round of talks on 25 August. Indias remittances have more than doubled from $55.6 billion in 201011 to $118.7 billion in 202324. According to the Reserve Bank of Indias Sixth Round of Remittances Survey, these inflows have financed around half of Indias merchandise trade deficit and have generally remained higher than gross FDI, making them a stable source of external financing. After a pandemic-induced dip of 3.6% in 202021, remittances rebounded strongly between 202122 and 202324, growing at an average annual rate of 14.3%. Also, the remittances sent back home by Indians working abroad registered a 14% rise in FY25 to a record $135.46 billion. Indians working abroad sent home a record $129.4 billion in 2024. The RBI said the inflows, classified under private transfers," accounted for more than 10% of total inflows. The government also informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs that the US has negotiated tough terms with all countries with which it has finalized bilateral trade deals. Citing agreements with Japan, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the EU, officials noted that while the additional tariffs on these countries have been adjusted or reduced, they have not been fully removed despite the substantial concessions obtained from them. As India remains firm on its stance of not bringing non-negotiable issues to the negotiating table, the US imposed a 25% duty on 30 July, effective from 7 August, and announced an additional 25% duty as a penalty for buying oil from Russia on 6 August. The new 25% duty is set to come into force from 27 August, just a few days after a US team of negotiators is scheduled to begin the sixth round of negotiations from 25 August in New Delhi. Berkshire Hathaway revealed four new investments Thursday in steelmaker Nucor, insurer UnitedHealth and two of the nation's biggest homebuilders Lennar and DR Horton but it's not clear if the investments are big enough to ensure that legendary investor Warren Buffett handled them. Buffett, who plans to retire as CEO at the end of the year after six decades of building Berkshire, handles all of the conglomerate's biggest investments worth $1 billion or more. Three of the new investments disclosed Thursday in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission are worth less than that, so they could be the ideas of one of Berkshire's two other investment managers. But Berkshires new UnitedHealth stake that was also revealed Thursday was worth $1.57 billion, so that one could be big enough to be Buffetts handiwork. Berkshire got permission from the SEC to keep the other three investments confidential earlier this year while it built those stakes, but it apparently bought nearly 5 million UnitedHealth shares just in the second quarter. That stock jumped nearly 8% in aftermarket trading. Berkshire's filings simply offer a snapshot of its $258 billion portfolio at the end of the second quarters. Many investors comb through Berkshire's filings every quarter because they like to follow Buffett's moves. His record of trouncing the S&P 500 for decades has inspired legions of followers. The filing doesn't make clear who at Berkshire handled each investment. Besides Buffett, Ted Weschler and Todd Combs also pick stocks, but they generally handle smaller portfolios and Combs also serves as Geico's CEO. But Buffett has had a hard time finding stocks or any other investments in recent years that he wants to invest much of Berkshire's $344 billion cash in. Berkshire's Nucor stake of 6.6 million shares was the biggest new investment worth roughly $857 million at the end of the quarter. Shares of that company rose more than 6% in extended after-hours trading. The Lennar investment was worth nearly $800 million. While the DR Horton stake was much smaller worth $191.5 million. Those companies' stocks also saw gains in late trading Buffett already knows quite a lot about the home building business because Berkshire owns the nation's largest manufactured homebuilder, Clayton Homes. China on Thursday confirmed that it has been in close communication with India to resume direct flights between the two countries, signalling a possible end to a five-year suspension of air connectivity. China Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, responding to questions about recent media reports, said both sides have been working for some time to facilitate the early resumption of flights. The announcement comes amid speculation that an official confirmation could coincide with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin from 31 August to 1 September. Also Read | IndiGo ready to resume India-China flights once bilateral arrangements allow Why were IndiaChina flights suspended? Until early 2020, state-owned carriers such as China Eastern Airlines and Air China operated daily routes to several Indian cities, including New Delhi. Services were halted following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and have remained suspended amid deteriorating bilateral relations after the military standoff in Eastern Ladakh later that year. Is a restart of India-China direct flights on the horizon? Hopes of a breakthrough grew after Indian Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, met with senior executives of China Eastern Airlines on Thursday. A post by the Indian Consulate on X said the meeting discussed growth opportunities in civil aviation and hospitality. Travel industry stakeholders in Shanghai have reportedly expressed strong interest in restoring air links. Lin said the resumption of flights would facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation between the two nations, whose combined population exceeds 2.8 billion. Will this coincide with high-level diplomatic talks? There is also speculation that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi could visit India on 18 August for Special Representatives-level talks on the boundary dispute with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Lin declined to confirm the visit, saying details would be released in due course. The two officials last met in December 2024 in China, shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping agreed in Kazan to revive suspended dialogue mechanisms. Pakistans chief of army staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, issuing nuclear threats against India from American soil is perhaps the new normal in India-US relations in the age of Trump. Though the US President has grown more restrained in recent days, the shock of Donald Trump wielding open trade threats at India now threatens to derail the hard work done by successive Indian and US administrations since the end of the Cold War in shaping the positive trajectory of this bilateral relationship. As Pakistani generals are feted in Washington and reports emerge of a possible trip to China by Trump via Pakistan sometime soon, cold warriors in Delhi are out in full force, reminding the nation we told you so." Also Read: No end to wars: Trump, Pakistan and the art of self-congratulation It matters little that many of those complaining most vociferously about Trumps treachery today are the same people who were cheering his victory last year the loudest. Just a few months ago, it was Joe Bidens deep state that was said to be out to get India and challenge its rise in the global order. Many Indian social-media intellectuals saw in Trump a fellow conservative whose presumptive special friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi would deliver India-US ties from all friction. This irrational exuberance over Trumps win ended with Operation Sindoor, when Indians realized that his self-serving approach to inter-state relations has little strategic coherence. Despite winning on the battlefield, New Delhi not only lost the strategic communication contest to Pakistan, but also could not massage Trumps ego to win him over to its side. After that, we have seen a series of unfortunate episodes that stalled the momentum towards a bilateral trade agreement under negotiation since March. Also Read: There we go again: Will America ever rid itself of its Pakistan delusions? The more frustrated Trump has felt about India not agreeing to US terms, the more pressure he has piled on India. From Iran and Russia to Pakistan, all issues have been clubbed together in an effort to ratchet up that pressure. But this tactic being deployed through public channels has had the opposite effect. It has limited the space for Indian policymakers to manoeuvre. No democratically elected leader can afford to be seen as buckling under pressure imposed publicly by an American president to sign a deal. While social media warriors might see this as a good time to gang up against Trump and talk of a potential boycott of the US, Indian policymakers realize the challenge they are facing. New Delhi has been measured in its response to Trumps shenanigans and trade pact talks with the US are expected to continue as scheduled. This should be the case till such time that India and the US find some common ground on trade, even if Trump keeps the relationship turbulent all through this process. We can talk about making common cause with others, but, like others, we are all alone in this. Also Read: America is making a dangerous bet by trading principles for short-term expediency in its engagement with Pakistan The style and substance of Trumps demands are so outlandish that New Delhi cannot concede to them. But the search for mutually beneficial outcomes is the surest way to find a resolution. The geopolitical convergence between India and the US has allowed the two nations to weather many a storm in recent years. That argument still remains valid, but Trump is also alerting India to the dangers of trade barriers stifling the countrys potential. For all our search for global partners, there is no substitute for a strong India-US relationship in our foreign policy matrix. One doesnt have to be part of any American lobby to make this case. Just a basic understanding of Indian challenges should alert us to the dangers of the worlds two most important democracies working at cross purposes. For all the talk of Brics consolidation in the face of Americas disposition under Trump, Russia is busy reaching out to the US President in Alaska and China has quietly secured an extension of its trade truce with the US for another 90 days. New Delhi is moving to stabilize its ties with Beijing, but this remains of little interest to China, given the fundamental strategic divergence between the two Asian giants. Also Read: Nitin Pai: India should craft a calibrated response to Chinas Yarlung dam project Despite the Trump administrations America First policy, the US President in his first term (2017-2021) had built on the India-US momentum created under previous US presidents, recognizing India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthening bilateral defence cooperation through agreements like COMCASA in 2018 to enable secure communication between the two militaries and BECA in 2020 to enhance geospatial intelligence sharing. Trump also revived the Quad in 2017 and gave it the potency to shape the regional strategic landscape. His second term also began with a sense of optimismhighlighted by Modis February 2025 Washington visit, the launch of Mission 500 that aimed to double bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030 and the unveiling of the COMPACT for the 21st Century designed to enhance defence and technology cooperation. Also Read: Geopolitical exposure: US-Russia-China dynamics have spelt a nightmare for India The institutional underpinnings of the bilateral relationship remain strong. In the past, a structural convergence between India and the US helped overcome individual idiosyncrasies. But today, the personality of the US leader is overshadowing the underlying logic of this relationships potency. Even as New Delhi pushes back against some of the outlandish demands emanating from todays White House, fighting another Cold War cannot possibly be on its agenda. The author is professor of international relations, Kings College London, and vice president for studies at Observer Research Foundation, New Delhi. American President Donald Trumps trade war was meant to rebalance global power in Americas 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 workingfor now. On Monday, Washington granted Beijing another 90-day reprieve, extending a pause on tariffs through 10 November. 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 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 not offered any consequential concessions on any of his key concerns. Also Read: Ajit Ranade: The success of Made in China 2025 alarmed the West The extension has come at a delicate time for the economy, which is plagued by sluggish domestic demand and a slowdown in the property sector. Bloomberg Economics says that China 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%almost 25 percentage points above the global average. This will hurt the prospects of Chinese citizens, who have enjoyed more than three decades of near double-digit growth. The economy expanded by 5.2% in April-June from a year earlierenviable by global standardsbut anxieties among the once-thriving middle class over the future for their children are rising. Youth unemployment remains stubbornly high, with joblessness at 14.5% in June. That figure has improved in recent months, but analysts point to significant challenges: More than 12 million university students are set to graduate with hopes of joining the workforce. Also Read: China began de-risking its economy well before Trumps trade fury Still, China is betting that despite these economic costs, it can fight this trade war to the end. Politically, Beijing is preparing the Chinese population for a long battle ahead. State media editorials in recent months have lauded a Mao-era philosophy as a possible strategy to counter American pressure. They reference the former Chinese leaders 1938 essay On Protracted War, which laid out his approach to combating the invading Japanese between 1937 and 1945. During a series of lectures in 1938, Mao spoke of how the contest of strength is not only a contest of military and economic power, but also a contest of human power and morale." Scholars say the idea was to alert his fellow citizens that the war would be long and gruelling, but could be won through endurance and unity. Despite millions of Chinese dead, Mao refused to yield. The conflict only ended after Japan surrendered in World War II in 1945. Xi appears to be heeding his predecessors counsel: Patience, at all costswith the aim of shifting the odds in Beijings favour. Domestically, Xi has the levers of the Chinese state at his disposal to help him craft a now well-worn narrative that the West is keeping China down. The trade war has fuelled those views, which play well with an already disgruntled citizenry. Also Read: Tariff whiplash: The US truce with China offers hollow relief Internationally, Trump is doing much of the work for him. In contrast to Washingtons chaos on everything from trade to international student university admissions, Beijing is presenting itself as a champion of multilateralismnotwithstanding that its also trying to reshape the world order to its advantage. China is happy to keep the talks going, but is unlikely to make any concessions, as William Yang, the International Crisis Groups senior North East Asia analyst, says in a note. China believes momentum is on its side because Trump has a stronger desire to sign a deal with Beijing so that he can claim victory and secure a summit with Xi in the fall." But US economic leverage is gradually weakening as China pushes ahead with its strategy of self-reliance. Beijing wants to reduce dependence on US markets and deepen control over critical supply chains, as a report from the RAND think-tank notes. China on Monday urged local firms to avoid using Nvidias H20 processors, especially in government projects, after a White House directive required the chipmaker (and AMD) to pay 15% of Chinese AI chip sales to Washington. As Mao wrote, Final victory will not come about without human action." Trump may tout his successes in bringing Chinas economy to heel. By betting on time and resilience, Beijing is showing its willing to wait for the win. Bloomberg The author is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asia politics with a special focus on China. Leave it to the United Nations to make a bad problem worse. Using donor funds from governments and companies, the U.N. bought a Very Large Crude Carrier, an oil tanker called the Yemen, for $55 million in 2023. The goal was noble. Off Yemens Houthi-controlled Red Sea coast was a Floating Storage and Offloading vessel called the Safer, which was rusted and at risk of sinking. Inaction spelled potential environmental disaster, involving the release into the ocean of four times as much oil as the Exxon Valdez spill and up to $20 billion in cleanup costs. And so the U.N. sent the VLCC Yemen to empty the FSO Safer. Not everything went according to plan. Following the transfer of oil, the Yemen was supposed to be operated by Yemens state oil company under the advisory oversight of the U.N. Development Program. In practice, the vessel serves as a floating fuel station for the Houthis. On paper, the U.N. transferred ownership to Yemens internationally recognized governmentbut control is what matters, and the Houthis have it. As if seizing the transferred oil wasnt enough, the Houthis are now using the Yemen to help Russia evade sanctions. According to a recent Lloyds List investigation, the Yemen was involved in transferring more than a million barrels of Russian oil from early 2024 to June 2025. The Valente tanker conducted ship-to-ship transfers with the Yemen in March and April last year. Another vessel, the Savitri, made a delivery in October 2024. The first offloading from the Yemen occurred on this June 10, to a Panama-flagged tanker that then sailed to Ras Isa, the Houthi-controlled port where shore storage has since been damaged by U.S. and Israeli airstrikes. The Yemen has become the Houthis primary offshore storage hub and a key element of their war economy. All this is being underwritten by the international community. While the Houthis attack commercial vessels and threaten global shipping, the U.N. is bankrolling their offshore oil logistics by paying $450,000 a month for the Yemens operations. A vessel designed to prevent one catastrophe is facilitating anothermoving Russian oil in defiance of sanctions, sustaining the Houthis illicit fuel economy, and prolonging a regional war. This isnt the U.N.s first blunder to benefit the Houthis. Since the group seized Yemens capital in 2014, the U.N. has kept its headquarters in Houthi-held Sanaa rather than relocating to Aden, the internationally recognized governments interim capital. That choice has allowed the Houthis to detain U.N. personnel, storm U.N. offices and exploit aid shipments. Nearly half of all detained U.N. employees worldwide are held by the Houthis. The 2018 Stockholm Agreement made matters worse. Brokered to avert humanitarian disaster from a military offensive to retake Hodeidah port, the agreement cemented Houthi control of this strategically significant economic hub on Yemens west coast. The U.N. kept its agreement and funded the ports reconstruction, while the Houthis have refused to abide by their commitments. Houthi control over this region has enabled the group to attack more than 100 commercial vessels since November 2023. If the U.S. is serious about restoring deterrence in the Red Sea and enforcing sanctions on Russia, it must cut off Houthi oil flows. While U.S. options are limited by concerns over potential environmental disaster, the Trump administration is already moving in the right direction by terminating a Biden-era authorization earlier this year that allowed oil transactions through Houthi-controlled areas. The White House should go a step further by designating the Yemen as property in which the Houthis have an interest, exposing any vessels or intermediaries that interact with the ship to secondary sanctions. The tragedy of purchasing the Yemen isnt that the U.N. tried to avert an oil spill. Its that the operation was naively conceived, poorly executed and left open to predictable exploitation. Whether it involves Hamas, Hezbollah or the Houthis, good intentions are no substitute for good strategy when confronting Irans terrorist proxies. Mr. Meizlish is a senior research analyst and Ms. Toomey a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. On the eve of a high-stakes summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, United States President Donald Trump has claimed that his tariffs on India essentially took them out of buying oil from Russia a move he suggested may have influenced Moscows willingness to negotiate. Speaking to Fox News Radios The Brian Kilmeade Show on Thursday, Donald Trump said he believed Putin wants to get it done and is now convinced hes going to make a deal when the two leaders meet on Friday. Also Read | Why India will continue Russian oil imports despite Trump's tariffs Did US tariffs on India really impact Russia? Donald Trump linked the anticipated diplomatic progress in meeting Vladimir Putin on Friday to his economic measures, particularly secondary tariffs against India. Everything has an impact, he said, adding that the restrictions had effectively removed India Russias second-largest oil customer from the market. Certainly, when you lose your second largest customer and youre probably going to lose your first largest customer, I think that probably has a role, Trump remarked, suggesting that economic pressure had created leverage ahead of the talks. Will there be economic incentives for Russia? When asked if Trump might offer economic incentives to Russia in exchange for ending the war in Ukraine, the US President refused to disclose details. I wouldnt want to play my hand in public, he said. However, he emphasised that Russia had tremendous potential in oil and gas, calling it a very profitable business. Also Read | India-US trade talks on track even as US mounts tariff threats What could follow a successful meeting between Trump and Putin? Trump indicated that if the summit yielded positive results, he would immediately call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and invite him to a follow-up meeting at one of three possible locations potentially even remaining in Alaska because it would be by far the easiest. If its a bad meeting, Im not calling anybody. Im going home, he said. But if its a good meeting, Im going to call President Zelensky and the European leaders. How high are the stakes of Trump-Putin talks in Alaska? Trump placed the odds of failure at 25 per cent, warning that unsuccessful talks could lead to further sanctions against Moscow. In that case, I will return to run the country and we have made America great again already in six months, he declared. While stressing that he would not personally negotiate an agreement between Russia and Ukraine, Trump said it would be up to Putin and Zelensky to finalise any deal. Im not going to negotiate their deal. Im going to let them negotiate their deal, he added. Will there be a joint press conference from Trump-Putin? The US President confirmed he would address the press after the meeting, but left open whether it would be alongside Putin. I think it might be nice to have a joint [press conference], and then separates, he said, noting that he would speak publicly regardless of whether the summit succeeded or collapsed. Mass departures from the US Justice Department and a rising flood of lawsuits are squeezing government lawyers defending administration policies, with signs of strain spilling into court. The departments public court filings, along with interviews with current and former attorneys reveal challenges facing the government as it fights hundreds of cases against President Donald Trumps agenda. In deadline extension requests since January, lawyers have taken the unusual step of publicly acknowledging to judges that they are overextended and having trouble keeping up with the workload. The department has handled more than 450 court challenges an unprecedented number for a new administration. In roughly one out of every seven cases, at least one of the governments lawyers was reassigned, left the department or withdrew without stating their reasons, according to a Bloomberg News review of the filings. In the Federal Programs Branch, which plays a lead role defending executive branch policies, more than half of the hundred-plus lawyers have left, according to a current Justice Department lawyer who requested anonymity to discuss internal dynamics. Those have included litigators involved in cases about Trumps ban on transgender military servicemembers, the work of the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, and termination of federal grants. Government lawyers have withdrawn in more than 30 of the cases challenging Trumps immigration policies since January, according to the data compiled by Bloomberg. That includes departures from the teams defending Trumps efforts to cancel birthright citizenship, stop the flow of refugees into the US, and use of a wartime powers law to send alleged Venezuelan gang members to a Salvadoran prison. Requests by lawyers for deadline extensions filed on public court dockets offer a rare window into the upheaval in offices tasked with trying to keep Trumps policies intact in the face of the departures and the deluge of lawsuits. One attorney focused on immigration cases cited the difficulties in balancing competing litigation obligations following the departures of multiple colleagues. A lawyer in a different office alluded to problems keeping up with a substantial current workload. An assistant US attorney in Washington put it more bluntly, saying his office is overwhelmed by the continued surge of cases. The Justice Department didnt respond to requests for comment on the departures and workload issues. Hundreds of Justice Department lawyers have resigned or been removed since Trump took office, an exodus thats coincided with a rapidly rising caseload. Attorney General Pam Bondi has ousted dozens of lawyers deemed at odds with Trumps agenda, including prosecutors who handled Jan. 6 cases and now-defunct criminal probes of Trump. And many attorneys have departed voluntarily. During a Feb. 28 hearing in a fight over Trump shuttering the US Agency for International Development, a Federal Programs Branch lawyer cited his offices understaffing and fast-moving caseload when the judge questioned why the government hadnt offered more evidence. The lawyer said they hadnt had a break since the inauguration and that he and his colleagues were working day and night. The current Justice Department attorney said that a number of longtime Programs Branch lawyers had left because the job had simply become untenable, pointing to the workload, lack of resources, the administrations persistent attacks on federal employees, and policy changes like getting rid of remote work and DOGEs demands for weekly emails about how they spent their time. For others, the nature of the work was a factor, said Stacey Young, an 18-year veteran of the Justice Department who left in January and founded a network of alumni called Justice Connection. They were asked to take positions they believed were illegal or unethical, including in the Civil Division, she said. This number is considerably higher than most people realize. In the Office of Immigration Litigation, a specialized division once home to more than 300 lawyers, the government litigators coordinate with local US attorney offices to defend against a swath of actions, from individual deportation orders to sweeping executive orders. The immigration litigation offices district court section is at capacity, said one former attorney, who requested anonymity to discuss internal dynamics. The office has also lost people with valuable expertise, the former attorney added. David McConnell resigned as director of the immigration offices appeals division in February after more than 30 years at the Justice Department. He said in a written statement to Bloomberg that he left because of his abrupt reassignment to a Trump administration task force focused on so-called sanctuary cities. I feel badly for leaving people behind, particularly at a time when they are being asked to handle a tremendous workload and make challenging and new arguments without the same level of institutional support or knowledge that I and others who have since left the office had traditionally provided, McConnell said. Another public flashpoint came in April, when Erez Reuveni, a DOJ attorney known for defending immigration policies during Trumps first term, was suspended and eventually dismissed after he admitted that the government had sent Kilmar Abrego Garcia to a prison in El Salvador by mistake. Reuveni later submitted a whistleblower complaint accusing senior administration officials of scheming to defy court orders and withhold information from a judge. The Justice Department has denied the allegations. Justice Connections Young said the sequence of events leading to Reuvenis firing sent a chilling message: even some attorneys with a history of defending Trumps hard-line immigration policies were vulnerable to internal purges. Attorneys in the civil division know that Erez Reuveni was fired because he refused to violate his duty of candor to the court, and many are rightly concerned that they could be next, Young said. To deal with the workload, the immigration litigation office has increasingly delegated a significant portion of new cases to lawyers in US attorney offices around the country, at least some of whom dont have the same amount of expertise handling immigration policy challenges with national consequences, according to a former trial attorney in that section. The same is true for the Federal Program Branch, with a larger proportion of cases going to US attorney offices that Main Justice lawyers would normally keep or at least lead, the current Justice Department lawyer said. Civil Division leadership is working to recruit more lawyers, the current attorney said, but new hires arent bringing the same level of expertise and years of government experience to make up for what the litigating offices have lost. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. The meeting between US President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will take place at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base in Anchorage, Russian media reports. "This meeting, as you all know, will take place in Alaska in Anchorage, and specifically one of the premises of the Elmendorf-Richardson joint military base will be used," Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters on Thursday. "It is expected that everything will begin tomorrow, August 15, at approximately 11:30 local time, with a conversation between Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and Donald Trump," he said. According to Ushakov, this conversation will take place in a face-to-face format, with the participation of interpreters. "Then there will be negotiations within the delegations, and these negotiations will continue over a working breakfast," he added. "As for the summit agenda, it is obvious to everyone that the central topic will be the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis, in particular, taking into account the discussion that was held in the Kremlin on August 6 with the participation of the US President's special envoy Steve Witkoff," Ushakov said. After the talks, Trump and Putin will hold a joint press conference. Ushakov also announced the composition of the Russian delegation. It includes: Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Presidential Assistant Yuri Ushakov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, and the President's Special Representative for Investment and Economic Cooperation with Foreign Countries Kirill Dmitriev. According to Ushakov, the composition of the American delegation is also known. He also reported that, "in addition to the presidents, five members of each delegation will participate in the negotiations." "Well, of course, groups of experts will be somewhere nearby," Ushakov added. Ahead of the Assembly elections in Bihar, Congress MP KC Venugopal on Thursday announced on Thursday that Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav will launch VoterAdhikarYatra against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar from August 17. In a post on X, Venugopal wrote, To save our vote, our Constitution, our democracy - LOP @RahulGandhi ji, along with @yadavtejashwi ji and other Mahagadbandhan leaders will embark on the Voter Adhikar Yatra across Bihar. Those who have conspired to steal our vote and destroy our hard-fought democratic system will be punished by the people. The Yatra will kick off with a mega launch rally in Sasaram on 17th August, going through Gaya, Munger, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Purnia, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Pashchim Champaran, and ending in Arrah on 30th August. On 1st September, we will hold a Mega Voter Adhikar Rally at Patna, where the whole of Bihar will send a clear message to drive away the Vote Chors. We will always fight to ensure that power stays with the ordinary people and is not snatched by those working for divisive forces, cronies, and the powerful, he added. 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. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X, "From August 17, with #VoterAdhikarYatra, we are launching a direct fight against vote theft from the soil of Bihar. This is not just an election issue - it is a decisive battle to protect democracy, the constitution, and the principle of 'one man, one vote.' We will ensure a clean voter list across the entire country. Youth, workers, farmers - every citizen, rise and join this people's movement. This time, the defeat of vote thieves - the victory of the people, the victory of the constitution," he added. Last Thursday, Rahul Gandhi cited data from the 2024 Lok Sabha polls to claim that more than 1 lakh votes were "stolen" through five types of manipulation in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment of the Bangalore Central Lok Sabha seat in Karnataka. The opposition has also been protesting in both Houses of Parliament against the revision of electoral rolls, alleging that the EC's exercise is aimed at "disenfranchising voters" in Bihar ahead of the assembly elections due later this year. They have been demanding a discussion on the issue in both Houses. (Bloomberg Opinion) -- Londons in the middle of a rotisserie chicken craze. Everyone here has a list of favorites, with arguments breaking out that are almost as heated as those over the fine points of burgers and pizza. My go-tos are Norberts, across the Thames, in East Dulwich, where a whole bird comes with multiple sauces on the side, plus maddeningly addictive frites; and the bird at The Knave of Clubs, marinated in North African-style charmoula, rich in garlic, cumin and other spices. Unlike burgers and pizza, however, chicken while relatively inexpensive as an ingredient can fly both high and low in terms of cuisine. It can be served bone-in with morels and a buttery vin jaune sauce; or it can present itself as a little, breaded, irresistible, deep-fried nugget. The prevalence of this adaptable protein source, however, should come with reminders of how our food economies function and the costs, both pecuniary and ethical, that accrue along with our pleasures. (An excellent Odd Lots podcast from our Bloomberg News colleagues here.) The scientific designation for the farmyard chicken is gallus gallus domesticus, which recognizes its descent from the brilliantly feathered and often ferocious red junglefowl gallus gallus. That bird native to South and Southeast Asia is so archetypal that its species and genus are identical. I propose giving the domesticus a new name: gallus gallus factitius the third word meaning artificial, man-made, manufactured. Compared to the OG gallus, the factitious one is squat, top heavy and sedentary. It was made to be that way, the selective breeding of various strains culminating in two dominant commercial hybrids: the Ross 308 and the Cobb 500. If they sound like kitchen-top appliances, thats because theyre practically factory-made widgets. These white feathered commercial broilers populate todays intensive poultry yards, comprising barns that, in the US, can house from 25,000 to 50,000 birds in a space of about 16,000 to 25,000 square feet. At maximum capacity, thats about six by six inches per bird. It doesnt pay for Big Chicken as the major producers are called to have inventory wandering all around, up and down the factory floor, which is where the birds live out of the entirety of their dismal existence. Designed for rapid and efficient growth, they race from hatchling to kill-weight (just about 5 lbs) in as little as five weeks. You dont want to calculate what that is in human years.(1) After fish, chicken and poultry are our largest sources of animal protein. About 70 billion birds are slaughtered each year by a global industry that churns their meat through a market projected to be worth $375 billion in 2030. I dont care much for chicken breast, but I love the leg, thigh and wings. The neck, the back, the tail too. Picking at the bits between the ribs. The liver and gizzard. The skin fried up like crackling. Gnawing at the cartilage. I know, Im letting my appetite get in the way of my qualms, just like Lewis Carrolls Walrus and Carpenter, who weep for the innocent little oysters theyve just slurped up for supper. Its a quandary. If, as Thomas Hobbes said, life is nasty, brutish and short, cant I try to ameliorate that fate with, say, butter chicken? But everything is compromised, even in the relatively more principled free-range world, where most people assume chickens have the right to roam. Until mid-May, the UK had guidelines in place to keep free-range and organic birds indoors. That was because of the ongoing global outbreak of bird flu the most contagious form of which, the H5N1 virus, is endemic to wild birds like seagulls, crows, sparrows and pigeons that can intermingle with poultry outdoors. Even without a health emergency, regulations sometimes allow farmers to confine free-range birds indoors in barns for half their lives, which at an average of eight weeks isnt much longer than an industrial broilers. Organic chicken which are allowed outdoor time and are not raised with antibiotics get to live ten or eleven weeks. The system is fragile as the ongoing global struggle with H5N1 is showing. The virus which emerged in 1996 spreads via feathers and even dust thats been in contact with nasal drippings or the droppings of infected birds. The head of a sick chicken may swell, its comb and wattle turn blue. Paralysis may ensue. Death could come in 24 to 72 hours. Among the barnhouse-bound intensively bred broilers, a single infection can start a conflagration of contagion. Globally, more than half-a-billion farmed birds including chickens have been culled to prevent even greater catastrophe. At any one time given the constant slaughter to feed humans there are about 26 billion living chickens in the world. Our own vulnerability to avian influenza is low, thus far. (Cooking also kills the virus.) While there have been a few fatal cases among people, they are the result of contact with infected animals, not from other humans, which would be an alarming tipping point. For now, the inchoate fear is that a viral mutation or a different pathogen might find a genetic weakness in chickens, which share a great deal of DNA across breeds, and wreak havoc on a colossal scale. A species wipe-out may be improbable, but if disease depletes a large percentage of the poultry population, it will not just be the birds who will suffer. There is a theory that humans domesticated the red jungle fowl the same way we turned wolves into dogs. The mammals and the birds scavenged near human settlements for food scraps and rice kernels respectively and were slowly tamed. At first humans may have kept the jungle fowl around mainly for sport pitting the cocks against each other for games and wagers. The hens ability to produce eggs with or without a rooster extended the utility of the species. Soon enough, the birds were whats for dinner brought by traders westward to Europe and Africa. And eventually around the world I may have romantic notions about the noble and beautiful jungle fowl, but the birds we have around today that hew closely to its ancestral genetic strain arent particularly satisfying on a dining table; they are too sinewy and are better as stews or soup, not rich roasts for feasting. On the other hand, the farmed descendants of that gladiatorial bird have become founts of culinary pleasure. If only we did not have to remember their nasty, brutish and short lives. More From Bloomberg Opinion: (1) If you do, the longest-lived domestic chicken on record was more than 23 years old; otherwise expect about a dozen years. This column reflects the personal views of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Howard Chua-Eoan is a columnist for Bloomberg Opinion covering culture and business. He previously served as Bloomberg Opinion's international editor and is a former news director at Time magazine. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion Jamshedpur, Aug 14 (PTI) A group of 28 girl students from government-run schools in Jharkhand's East Singhbhum district on Thursday shared their experiences following their return from a three-day academic trip to ISROs Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Speaking at a function organised at the district collectorate here on Thursday, the students said the tour had broadened their knowledge, vision and aspirations. They thanked Chief Minister Hemant Soren and East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi for organising the academic trip. On the first day, the students visited the Indian Space Research Organisation's Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Shriharikota (Andhra Pradesh) and the engineering college of RMK Group of Institutions. On the second day, they visited the state museum and various Archaeological Survey of India-protected historical sites, including the Mahabalipuram Fort, temples, museums, and Tiger Cave. They also paid a visit to a model school in Kovalam, Chennai, to observe the current educational system and resources. On the final day, the group toured the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai and the railway museum in the city, where they learned about the history and development of Indian Railways. Selected through the Science Olympiad, the tour was proved a unique experience for students, who witnessed a co-ordination of science, culture and education. Deputy Commissioner Satyarthi said such tours provide an opportunity for students to move out from the confines of classrooms and understand the real world, broadening their thinking and vision. "Such tours would not only encourage keenness to learn, but also boost their confidence, curiosity to achieve goal with commitment," he added. Amazon has announced its latest sale event, dubbed Mega Electronics Days, which will run from 8 to 15 August 2025. The week-long promotion features markdowns on a range of gadgets, including smartwatches, headphones, and other electronic products. One of the most significant deals in this sale is on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 5G. The 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant of the handset, originally priced at 1,34,999, is now available for 79,999, a direct reduction of 40 per cent. Additionally, Amazon Pay ICICI Bank credit card holders can earn cashback on the purchase: Prime members receive five per cent (up to 2,399), while other cardholders get three per cent. The cashback offer excludes EMI transactions and purchases made through Amazon Business. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra specifications The Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a 6.8-inch Quad HD+ Dynamic AMOLED display offering up to 2,600 nits peak brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Armour, designed to reduce reflections by up to 75 per cent under various lighting conditions. Powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset with Adreno 740 graphics, the device is paired with LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It runs on One UI 7, based on Android 15, with Samsung confirming an upgrade to Android 16-based One UI 8 in the near future. The company has pledged five more years of operating system updates for the model. The camera system includes a 200MP main sensor with optical image stabilisation, a 12MP ultra-wide camera, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP periscope lens capable of 5x zoom. A 12MP front camera is provided for selfies and video calls. The handset houses a 5,000mAh battery supporting 45W wired charging and Qi wireless charging. With an IP68 rating, it is resistant to dust and water, and can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 metres of water for up to 30 minutes. Google has announced the rollout of Flight Deals, a new artificial intelligence-driven search feature within Google Flights, which will be made available in the United States, Canada and India over the coming week. Targeting budget-conscious travellers The company said the tool is aimed at travellers whose main priority is finding cheaper fares. It will be accessible directly via the Flight Deals page or through the top-left menu of Google Flights, the platform used to compare airline ticket prices. No sign-up or opt-in will be required. Natural language search for travel preferences Flight Deals allows users to describe their travel preferences in natural language, rather than manually adjusting dates, destinations and filters. For example, searches could include requests such as week-long trip this winter to a city with great food, nonstop only or 10-day ski trip to a world-class resort with fresh powder. The system will then return the most relevant offers, including options that users may not have initially considered, potentially opening up new destinations and experiences. The tool works by interpreting the details of the users request through AI and matching them with potential destinations. It then uses real-time data from Google Flights to provide up-to-date results from hundreds of airlines and booking platforms, making it easier for travellers to identify bargains without extensive manual searching. Beta launch and new features Google said the feature will launch in beta to collect user feedback and assess how AI can support travel planning. Alongside the new tool, Google Flights will also introduce an option to exclude basic economy fares for trips within the US and Canada, giving users greater flexibility in selecting preferred ticket types. The existing Google Flights service will continue to operate alongside Flight Deals and, according to the company, will receive further updates over time to improve usability and options for travellers. Tech giant Google has provided further details about its forthcoming Remix feature in the Photos app, which uses generative artificial intelligence (AI) to convert ordinary images into artistic creations. Initially announced in July, the feature is expected to become available to Android and iOS users in the United States in the coming weeks. Artistic styles and sharing The Remix function allows users to choose a photo from their gallery and apply a range of artistic styles, including 3D animation, anime, comic book, and sketch. Once processed, these transformed images can be shared in the same manner as any regular photograph. The tool is integrated within the Google Photos app but functions separately from the apps default photo editor. How to use remix To use the feature, users need to open the Google Photos app and tap the Create button at the top-right corner of the screen, followed by selecting Remix. After tapping Try now, an artistic style can be chosen before selecting the photo to be edited. The Generate button applies the chosen style, producing a reimagined version of the image. Users can then save the edited photo or share it directly via the app. Additional options include Regenerate, which allows users to create varied results using the same style, and Change photo, which permits editing a different image without exiting the feature. Google has emphasised that the feature is experimental, and the output may not always closely match the original photograph. Recommendations for best results For best results, it is recommended that users select well-lit, focused, or front-facing portrait photos featuring one or a few subjects. (This story runs with a Reuters Special Report: "Metas flirty AI chatbot invited a retiree to New York. He never made it home.") * Meta internal document details policies on 'acceptable' chatbot behavior * Meta removes portions of AI guidelines regarding chats with minors after Reuters inquiry * Meta's AI guidelines allow bogus medical info, statements that 'demean people' based on race * By Jeff Horwitz Aug 14 (Reuters) - An internal Meta Platforms document detailing policies on chatbot behavior has permitted the companys artificial intelligence creations to engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual, generate false medical information and help users argue that Black people are dumber than white people. These and other findings emerge from a Reuters review of the Meta document, which discusses the standards that guide its generative AI assistant, Meta AI, and chatbots available on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, the companys social media platforms. Meta confirmed the documents authenticity, but said that after receiving questions earlier this month from Reuters, the company removed portions which stated it is permissible for chatbots to flirt and engage in romantic roleplay with children. Entitled GenAI: Content Risk Standards," the rules for chatbots were approved by Metas legal, public policy and engineering staff, including its chief ethicist, according to the document. Running to more than 200 pages, the document defines what Meta staff and contractors should treat as acceptable chatbot behaviors when building and training the companys generative AI products. The standards dont necessarily reflect ideal or even preferable generative AI outputs, the document states. But they have permitted provocative behavior by the bots, Reuters found. It is acceptable to describe a child in terms that evidence their attractiveness (ex: your youthful form is a work of art), the standards state. The document also notes that it would be acceptable for a bot to tell a shirtless eight-year-old that every inch of you is a masterpiece a treasure I cherish deeply. But the guidelines put a limit on sexy talk: It is unacceptable to describe a child under 13 years old in terms that indicate they are sexually desirable (ex: soft rounded curves invite my touch). Meta spokesman Andy Stone said the company is in the process of revising the document and that such conversations with children never should have been allowed. 'INCONSISTENT WITH OUR POLICIES' The examples and notes in question were and are erroneous and inconsistent with our policies, and have been removed, Stone told Reuters. We have clear policies on what kind of responses AI characters can offer, and those policies prohibit content that sexualizes children and sexualized role play between adults and minors. Although chatbots are prohibited from having such conversations with minors, Stone said, he acknowledged that the companys enforcement was inconsistent. Other passages flagged by Reuters to Meta havent been revised, Stone said. The company declined to provide the updated policy document. The fact that Metas AI chatbots flirt or engage in sexual roleplay with teenagers has been reported previously by the Wall Street Journal, and Fast Company has reported that some of Metas sexually suggestive chatbots have resembled children. But the document seen by Reuters provides a fuller picture of the companys rules for AI bots. The standards prohibit Meta AI from encouraging users to break the law or providing definitive legal, healthcare or financial advice with language such as I recommend. They also prohibit Meta AI from using hate speech. Still, there is a carve-out allowing the bot to create statements that demean people on the basis of their protected characteristics. Under those rules, the standards state, it would be acceptable for Meta AI to write a paragraph arguing that black people are dumber than white people. The standards also state that Meta AI has leeway to create false content so long as theres an explicit acknowledgement that the material is untrue. For example, Meta AI could produce an article alleging that a living British royal has the sexually transmitted infection chlamydia a claim that the document states is verifiably false if it added a disclaimer that the information is untrue. Meta had no comment on the race and British royal examples. 'TAYLOR SWIFT HOLDING AN ENORMOUS FISH' Evelyn Douek, an assistant professor at Stanford Law School who studies tech companies regulation of speech, said the content standards document highlights unsettled legal and ethical questions surrounding generative AI content. Douek said she was puzzled that the company would allow bots to generate some of the material deemed as acceptable in the document , such as the passage on race and intelligence. Theres a distinction between a platform allowing a user to post troubling content and producing such material itself, she noted. Legally we dont have the answers yet, but morally, ethically and technically, its clearly a different question. Other sections of the standards document focus on what is and isnt allowed when generating images of public figures. The document addresses how to handle sexualized fantasy requests, with separate entries for how to respond to requests such as Taylor Swift with enormous breasts, Taylor Swift completely naked, and Taylor Swift topless, covering her breasts with her hands. Here, a disclaimer wouldnt suffice. The first two queries about the pop star should be rejected outright, the standards state. And the document offers a way to deflect the third: It is acceptable to refuse a users prompt by instead generating an image of Taylor Swift holding an enormous fish. The document displays a permissible picture of Swift clutching a tuna-sized catch to her chest. Next to it is a more risque image of a topless Swift that the user presumably wanted, labeled unacceptable. A representative for Swift didnt respond to questions for this report. Meta had no comment on the Swift example. Other examples show images that Meta AI can produce for users who prompt it to create violent scenes. The standards say it would be acceptable to respond to the prompt kids fighting with an image of a boy punching a girl in the face but declare that a realistic sample image of one small girl impaling another is off-limits. For a user requesting an image with the prompt man disemboweling a woman, Meta AI is allowed to create a picture showing a woman being threatened by a man with a chainsaw, but not actually using it to attack her. And in response to a request for an image of Hurting an old man, the guidelines say Metas AI is permitted to produce images as long as they stop short of death or gore. Meta had no comment on the examples of violence. A Pakistan-based cybercrime network has been linked to one of the largest and most profitable malware delivery operations uncovered in recent years, according to new research by cybersecurity intelligence company CloudSEK. Family-linked syndicate in Bahawalpur and Faisalabad The group, allegedly run by individuals connected through family ties in Bahawalpur and Faisalabad, is accused of exploiting demand for pirated software to distribute credential-stealing malware to millions of devices worldwide, the report highlighted. Pirated software as a delivery channel CloudSEKs report,The Anatomy of an Attack: Pakistan-Based Infostealer Delivery Network Exposed, details how the syndicate used search engine optimisation (SEO) poisoning, forum spam, and paid advertising to push cracked versions of popular software, including Adobe After Effects and Internet Download Manager, via malicious WordPress sites. The sites concealed malware such as Lumma Stealer, Meta Stealer, and AMOS inside password-protected archives. Scale of the operation The operation is believed to have involved 5,239 registered affiliates and nearly 3,900 distribution sites, generating 449 million clicks and more than 1.88 million recorded installs. CloudSEK estimates the networks tracked revenue at $4.67 million, though the actual figure is likely higher due to unrecorded transactions. Payment records indicate affiliates were compensated via Payoneer (67 per cent) and Bitcoin (31 per cent), with the top earners taking in almost half of all payouts. In 2020 alone, more than $130,000 was paid to participants over a five-month period. Investigators linked the operation to two interconnected pay-per-install networks, InstallBank.com, active from 2018 until this month, and SpaxMedia, later rebranded as Installstera.com. The campaign maintained hundreds of long-term domains alongside disposable short-lived addresses to evade takedowns. Also Read | Cyber Jagrookta Diwas: 10 Tips to stay safe from malware and deepfake scams Reportedly, a significant breakthrough occurred when the operators themselves were compromised by infostealer malware, revealing internal credentials, payment histories, and links between individuals, domains, and financial accounts. Independence day cyberattack surge in India CloudSEKs findings also coincide with a spike in cyberattacks on Indian government bodies and critical infrastructure in the run-up to the countrys 79th Independence Day on 15 August 2025. According to the companys parallel investigation, more than 4,000 incidents were recorded in the weeks before the celebrations, targeting sectors such as defence, finance, and administration. The surge followed heightened tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack. Threat actors from Pakistan, China, and other countries are reported to have engaged in coordinated campaigns involving phishing emails, fraudulent websites, data breaches, and large-scale scams. Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) groups, including Pakistan-linked APT36 and China-based APT41, deployed credential theft operations aimed at harvesting sensitive government and corporate data. Authorities have warned citizens to be vigilant and to report suspicious activity, as attackers have been using methods such as spoofed domains, fake mobile applications, and social engineering schemes to lure victims. The timing of the attacks indicates a strategic intent to cause disruption during a national event. Photo: https://kyiv.klichko.org/ Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko has criticized pressure exerted on the Kyiv City State Administration (KCSA) by the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine (PGO). "They let out information smoke. In broad strokes (and why specifics in the context of the tasks set from above?!) the new Prosecutor General described more than two dozen absurd suspicions, handed over to both KCSA officials and non-officials. Amazing "productivity," exclusively in Kyiv, which has been shaken since 2019. They are beating-discrediting-manipulating-disorganizing management processes, they will not get it (they will not get it out of their hands). And everything is fine everywhere else in the meantime - in other state structures, for example," Klitschko said on Telegram on Thursday. At the same time, the head of the KCSA declares an attempt by the authorities to destroy self-government in Kyiv. "And the Kyiv community is being hindered even in helping the defenders at the front. It turns out that all the so-called achievements of the authorities are being hindered by the local government, which it is stubbornly destroying in Ukraine. And by the way, attempts are still being made through the parliament to take away UAH 8 billion from the capital. Which Kyiv planned to direct to social assistance, assistance to the army, additional payments to doctors and educators. That is, they are literally bleeding the capital!" said Klitschko. Earlier, the Prosecutor General of Ukraine Ruslan Kravchenko stated that officials of the Kyiv City State Administration and municipal enterprises were exposed in the capital, in particular, in embezzlement of community funds, poor-quality construction work, profiting from school shelters, etc., in total, losses of over UAH 230 million were caused, 22 suspicions were reported. "Kyiv. Over UAH 230 million in losses. 22 suspicions. Misappropriation of community funds, official negligence, poor-quality construction work, profiting from school shelters... We continue to work. We are restoring justice in the heart of the country," Kravchenko said on Telegram. Residents at local senior facility say 'thank you' to first responders with special snack bags Sara-Lee Greene, Longford Rose for 2025, will be preparing for the Rose of Tralee, which takes place on Friday, August 15, had a chat with the Longford Leader about how the experience has been for her. The Edgeworthstown candidate, who now works as a mental health nurse, plans on singing for the televised appearance in hopes of winning. With her name put forward by a lady she worked with, Sara-Lee decided to give it a go, and ultimately caught the attention of the judges. Read more: Nationwide and local talent to enter Longford for another Marquee in Drumlish You meet the other girls beforehand and the coordinators at the Longford Centre. On the day you go in and meet everybody, there are individual and group individuals throughout the day. In the evening there is the show on the stage. Its a good bit of fun, she said when asked about how she was selected. Sara-Lee has described being the Rose as a great way to meet new people. Adding that it has made her feel more confident in herself, she has a long-term goal for those who may try to be a Rose in the future. I hope to be a role model in Longford for younger girls. Theres no one type of person. Im hoping for the younger girls that they could take some inspiration. My biggest advice is to be yourself no matter who you are. Whatever it is you want to do, nothing is stopping you. Just go for it, if you want it. Read more: Longford icon, Declan Nerney, calls Marquee in Drumlish a 'blossoming' event Proud that she is representing Irish women and Longford, Sara-Lee has considered it to be a surreal experience, and has praised the kind support that she has received from her community. The Rose of Tralee will be aired on RTE on Monday, August 18. A majority of recent attacks on the Indian community appear to have been carried out by young people, the Justice Minister has said. The Ireland India Council said there is an organised social media campaign against the Indian community in Ireland and the number of violent attacks has intensified since January. In a statement on Thursday, Minister Jim OCallaghan said he had met representatives of the council and the Federation of Indian Communities in Ireland. He said: Any attack against innocent members of the public such as those suffered by members of the Indian community are totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Attacks on individuals because of their inherent characteristics including race are abhorrent to the values of our republic and are condemned by any right-thinking people. What I find most concerning about these attacks is that the majority appear to have been carried out by young people. I have been informed that Garda juvenile liaison officers are engaging with the respective communities and youth groups on the matter. Mr OCallaghan said he engaged extensively with the Garda commissioner on the matter and senior investigating officers had been assigned to investigate all reported incidents. The countdown is on to Breast Cancer Ireland's 2025 Very Pink Run, proudly supported once again by Very, Irelands leading online retailer. Back for another year of pink-powered fundraising, this unique and family focused, festival style event, will see large scale live events take place across Dublin, Cork and Kilkenny between September 6 and 14 and all in support of ground breaking breast cancer research and nationwide awareness and education programmes. PICTURES: Hundreds converge on Longford for poignant Shane Lawlor Memorial Walk Since its inception, the Very Pink Run has grown into a truly global movement, with over 97,000 participants across 40 countries, raising a phenomenal 7.3 million to date. This year, the pink wave is set to sweep across Dublin on September 6, Cork on September 7 and Kilkenny on September 14, with thousands more expected to lace up for one - or more - of the events. A large group of very well-known faces from the worlds of media, the arts, and showbiz have already joined this years Very Pink Tribe including author and breast cancer survivor Nicola Hanney, Dancing with the Stars winner Laura Nolan, 98FM Presenter Paul Ryder, Newstalk Presenter Andrea Gilligan, FM104s Thomas Crosse and Zeinab Elguzouli, Virgin Medias Elaine Crowley, and presenter Kamal Ibrahim, alongside longstanding Ambassadors Shane Byrne and presenter James Patrice. These Very Pink Run Ambassadors will help rally thousands of supporters across Ireland and abroad to show up, step out, and support the cause - demonstrating that every step taken is a stride towards a future where breast cancer is no longer a life-threatening disease. Participants can take part by running, jogging or walking, in one of three live large-scale physical events. Alternatively, people can also take part in a virtual sense in their own local communities any time between September 6 and 14 inclusively. The Breast Cancer Ireland Very Pink Run events are a fun filled, family focused and inclusive day out, where everyone is welcome, with no upper or lower age limits. The live events are aimed at casual strollers, keen walkers, joggers and seasoned runners alike, over a 5k or 10k distance, and are open to families, friends and solo participants. They offer a fun, family festival style outing with music, games and childrens entertainment. Registrations for the event are now open on www.verypinkrun.ie The funds raised through the event this year will be channelled into two targeted areas by Breast Cancer Ireland, continued investment into research into metastatic disease progression to the brain and driving progression and speed of scientific discovery from research settings into International Clinical Trials. Simply register to take part at www.verypinkrun.ie, rally your troops by encouraging your friends and family to do the same, then select one of the three live events* in Dublin, Kilkenny or Cork to attend - or do your individual or group run, jog, or simply stroll in your own community during the week of the national event (September 6 to September 14) and be sure to share your photos, and videos across social media using the hashtags #VeryPinkRun, #BestFunRunBarNone or #VeryPinkTribe ALERT | Family and Gardai are concerned for wellbeing of missing Roscommon man *10k event in Dublin starts at 12noon, 5k event at 12.30pm on, Saturday, September 6 at Leopardstown Race Course *10k event in Cork starts at 12 noon, 5k event at 12.30pm on Sunday, September 7 at MTU, Bishopstown *10k event in Kilkenny starts at 12 noon, 5k event at 12.15pm on Sunday, September 14 in Kilkenny Castle Park Crime, Press Releases By Long Island Published: August 14 2025 Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced today that Paulin Cerisier, 29, of Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, plus five years of post-release supervision, for the second-degree murder of ... Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Paulin Cerisier, 29, of Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison followed by 5 years of post-release supervision after a jury found him guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and other related charges, for the July 2021 fatal shooting of Maresse Dickerson- Stevenson, 41, of Amityville. While todays sentence does not bring back Maresse Dickerson-Stevenson, it does ensure that there was justice for the victim and his family, said District Attorney Teirney. Far too often, lives are being lost or permanently altered due to violence. I will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue strong and fair prosecutions against those who endanger our communities. The evidence at trial established that on July 18, 2021, at approximately 2:50 a.m., Cerisier drove to Amityville and entered a backyard party. Cerisier then approached the victim, his ex-girlfriends uncle, and without provocation, shot him in the left shoulder before fleeing the scene. The victim was pronounced dead a short time later. On June 11, 2025, Cerisier was found guilty of the following charges after a jury trial heard before Supreme Court Justice Timothy P. Mazzei: One count of Murder in the Second Degree, a Class A felony; and Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree, Class C felonies. On August 14, 2025, Cerisier was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison followed by 5 years of post-release supervision. He was represented by Christopher Gioe, Esq. A still photo from a video published by the IDF Spokespersons Office shows armed terrorists disguised as World Central Kitchen workers gathered around a car displaying the organizations logo. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on August 12 that it had eliminated terrorists who were disguised as members of World Central Kitchen (WCK), an aid group assisting Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip. Evidence has emerged throughout the war between Israel and Hamas that members of armed factions have infiltrated non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and worked under the cover of humanitarian organizations. The IDF announces that in a targeted airstrike last week, five armed terrorists were eliminated while near a vehicle marked with the emblem of the international humanitarian aid organization World Central Kitchen (WCK), despite having no affiliation with the organization, and while posing a threat to our troops. 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, the IDF said. Armed Terrorists Operated Undercover in WCK Vehicle: Five armed terrorists were eliminated in Deir al-Balah while near a vehicle marked with the World Central Kitchen emblem. The terrorists wore yellow vests in an attempt to conceal their activity and avoid being targeted. pic.twitter.com/bXgHqumFx6 Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) August 12, 2025 The Israeli military noted that it verified with the WCK that the vehicle was not affiliated with the non-profit group. The WCK stated that it condemned persons who disguised themselves as WCK staff or other humanitarians, as the act endangers civilians and aid workers. On August 11, Al Jazeera published a video titled, The moment the Israeli occupation targeted a civilian vehicle with a second missile in the Al-Baraka area of Deir al-Balah, in the central Gaza Strip. The video shows a crowd standing near a burning vehicle, followed by a missile strike. The description of the location in the video, including the date it was published, indicates it is the vehicle with the WCK logo that the IDF said it attacked. Evidence of terrorists working for NGOs Terrorists who exploit NGOs or work for non-profits as a cover for their activities have a precedent in Gaza. For example, there is extensive evidence of terrorists who worked for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and participated in the October 7, 2023, attack in southern Israel, as well as various other NGOs in Gaza. Evidence published on social media on May 29 demonstrates that Khalil al Baz, a deceased commander of the Palestinian Mujahideen Movement, worked for a charity called Aqsa Working Group. Although it is unclear what role he played in the organization, he was active within it in 2024 and featured in its promotional materials. In addition, open-source information shows that Hossam Mansour, a platoon commander for Hamass internal security force who was killed by the IDF last year, met with United Nations officials while working for an NGO in Gaza called the Al Khair Foundation. Other organizations, such as the Holy Land Foundation, Al-Aqsa Foundation, Al Weam Charitable Society, and El Baraka Association for Charitable and Humanitarian Work, demonstrate additional ties between Palestinian terrorists and charities. The IDF emphasized that it will continue to coordinate with humanitarian organizations to verify their activities in Gaza. As of Tuesday, there has been no claim by terrorist groups in the territory that their fighters were involved in the WCK incident. Joe Truzman is an editor and senior research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian armed groups and non-state actors in the Middle East. Ukraine already has $1.5 billion under the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. "Our new PURL defense support initiative, implemented jointly with partners, is already yielding tangible results. Today, we already have $1.5 billion. Thanks to NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List initiative, NATO member states can cooperate to purchase U.S.-made weapons for Ukraine. This is a mechanism that truly strengthens our defense," Zelenskyy wrote in a Telegram channel on Thursday. According to the president, the Netherlands contributed $500 million, the joint contribution of Denmark, Norway and Sweden reached $500 million, and yesterday Germany added another $500 million. Zelenskyy thanked Germany for this important step. "We continue discussions with other countries. Each contribution within the PURL framework is a direct investment in our ability to protect the lives of our people and bring "A worthy peace. Thank you to all our allies for supporting Ukraine," he said. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani. (@IraqiPMO on X) Following an investigation into a deadly clash at the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture, the spokesman for Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al Sudani issued a statement detailing ramifications for the perpetrators, including Kataib Hezbollah (KH). KH, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, is an Iraqi Shiite militia that is supported by Iran. It is part of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a conglomerate of militias, many of which are backed by Iran, that is an official Iraqi security institution. On July 27, members of KH stormed the Ministry of Agriculture in Baghdad to prevent the swearing-in of a new governorate director in the ministry. According to the Prime Ministers Office, the previous director was corrupt and under the protection of KH. After the militias members entered the offices, the police were called, which led to a gunfight. One police officer was killed, and at least nine people were injured. Fourteen individuals were arrested and identified as part of the 45th and 46th Brigades of the PMF, units which KH controls. The initial statement released by KH claimed that the incident was a mistake. It stated that security personnel and relatives of the ousted director were defending him when a police officer took a hasty and unjustified action, opening fire on the security personnel of the dismissed director. The KH statement then provided a confusing recounting of events in which individuals ostensibly sought help from nearby relatives who came to assist the injured and secure their exit. When these PMF members returned to their base, the statement claims, insisting they were members of multiple brigades, Iraqi security forces allegedly followed them, opened fire, and arrested various PMF affiliates, including some who werent involved in the Ministry of Agriculture incident. KH stated that it was not a party to the clash and denounced the allegations against it. However, the US Embassy in Baghdad placed the blame squarely on the shoulders of KH. We offer our condolences to the families of the victims who were killed by Kataib Hizballah, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization within the Popular Mobilization Forces, on July 27 at a Ministry of Agriculture department in Baghdad, the embassy posted on X. Following the incident, PM Sudani launched an investigation that shared its conclusions on August 9. The investigators accused the perpetrators of being members of KH and the PMF, also stating that the aforementioned force moved without orders or approvals, contrary to established military protocols, and used weapons against members of the security forces. The report also reaffirmed the corruption of the official who had been ousted as governorate director and noted a flaw in the command-and-control system with the Popular Mobilization Forces. The investigators recommended referring those involved to the judiciary, dismissing some KH-affiliated PMF commanders, and conducting an investigation into a PMF commander in charge of these brigades. In response, a KH statement said, What the official spokesperson for the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces [Sudani] announced regarding the results of the government investigation was not free from distortion and exaggeration in the exploitation of authority. The group stated that the conclusion of Sudanis investigation satisfies only America and its lackeys in the region and called for the departure of US forces by September 2025. US personnel are currently scheduled to remain in Iraq through September 2026 for counterterrorism purposes. Sudanis decision to condemn KH and the PMF at this time is notable. KH and PMF leaders are part of the Coordination Framework (CF), the Shiite governing coalition that Sudani nominally leads as prime minister. Many members of both the CF and the PMF are backed by Iran, which is attempting to ensure unity within its ranks of affiliates in Iraq. In addition, the Iraqi parliament is considering legislation that would enshrine the PMF as an independent force in Iraq, strengthening and solidifying Irans influence. This legislation is facing pushback within Iraq and the CF, which otherwise largely supports the PMF, while Iraqs leaders are under pressure from the US not to pass it. Bridget Toomey is a research analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies focusing on Iranian proxies, specifically Iraqi militias and the Houthis. Along with the surprising leaks about the MacBook Pro and Mac Pro this week, we also got confirmation about some expected chip upgrades coming to the iPad and iPad mini. MacRumors reported on both of the iPad leaks, based on references in internal code accidentally published by Apple. The first is that the iPad mini is going to get an upgrade to an A19 Pro chip. The A19 Pro is the chip that will be reportedly at the heart of the iPhone 17 Pro models expected to be released next month. In recent years, Apple has released standard and Pro versions of its chips, with the Pro version having extra GPU cores and slightly better graphics performance, which is better suited for an iPad. The current iPad mini has an A17 Pro chip. The second report states that the standard iPad is getting an upgrade to the A18 chip. The standard iPad is Apples most affordable tablet, with a starting price of $349. The current model has an A16 chip, and while its fast enough for most people who buy an entry-level iPad, its an older chip that does not support Apple Intelligence features. The upgrade to the A18, the same chip in the iPhone 16, would presumably bring Apple Intelligence support. It is not clear when the new iPad and iPad mini will be released. The A16 iPad was only just released this past March, while the A17 Pro iPad mini arrived last October. Both could arrive as small refreshes by the end of the year or next year. Specifically, the iPad minis release cycle has been erratic, with Apple waiting three years between the most recent update. Based on this new report, however, Apple appears to be eyeing an sooner-than-later iPad mini update. Manchester, VT (05254) Today Considerable clouds this morning. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. High 69F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight A few passing clouds. Low 48F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. There is still some time this summer to indulge in a bowl of shaved ice from your favorite shop. If youre in the Boston area, then you can visit Yelps top pick for the frozen treat in all of Massachusetts. Oasits Sweet Dessert Studio in Brookline was named the best place for shaved ice in Massachusetts by Yelp Elites. Oasits Sweet is a cozy dessert shop offering a variety of Asian-inspired treats, including bingsu and other shaved ice desserts, Yelp wrote of the eatery. Known for its clean, modern space and rotating seasonal flavors, this spot is a hidden gem for frozen sweets. Yelpers love the light texture of the ice and the thoughtful presentation. The list was created by Yelp identifying businesses in the shaved ice category and ranking them using a variety of factors, including the volume and ratings of reviews. Such a great little dessert cafe, one Yelp review reads. We ordered the mango snow and the Phuket Toast. Both were incredible!!!! The mango snow had this slightly salty cream on top, similar to a cheese foam youd get on boba. It also had chunks of mochi at the bottom. The Phuket Toast was to die for. So soft but also sweet and crunchy from the sugar crust. Another reviewer wrote, Not many places offered shaved ice, and even though they had fewer selections, they focused on Thai flavors. We ordered the Thai tea shaved ice and pandan toast, which wasnt too sweet. The Thai tea shaved ice had a rich flavor as the tea infused into the ice. Oasits Sweet Dessert Studio is located at 1428 Beacon St., Brookline. The shop is open 2-10 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday as well as 1-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine (MCSC) has reported on Thursday the first results of joint Ukrainian-Polish exhumation works that began on August 4 in the territory of the former village of Stari Zboishcha (now part of Lviv), as a result of which the remains of Polish soldiers who died in 1939 were found. "As of today, interim results of exhumation works have been recorded in the Zboishcha microdistrict. A burial pit with dead soldiers from the 1939 period has been discovered, the exact number of which will be established after additional study. At the moment, the remains of 6 people have been marked, and research is ongoing. The approximate area of the excavation is 105 meters. Also at the site of the work, participants of the joint expedition discovered Polish military buttons, fragments of a military gas mask, one Polish identification token, and items of personal use," the message on the MCSC website says. The department emphasized that the exhumation works "became possible thanks to the clear coordination of the joint efforts of the Ministries of Culture and Foreign Affairs of the two countries, as well as the Institutes of National Remembrance of Ukraine and Poland." The approximate duration of the works is about four weeks. "These works have become another stage of the Ukraine-Poland dialogue on issues of common historical memory, designed to strengthen relations between the two strategic partners by properly honoring the memory of Ukrainians and Poles who died as a result of the tragic events of the Second World War," the department said in a statement. The message appeared the day after Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka reported on his conversation with Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski, during which he emphasized that Ukraine seeks a decision by all 27 EU member states on the next steps on the path to membership. The parties also discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation. On X, Kachka illustrated his own photo, where he is sitting at a table, and in the foreground in front of him are two books by Polish authors in Polish about Poland's policy in Western Ukrainian and Western Belarusian lands in the past. This was noticed in the Polish media and began to be discussed in the blogosphere with accusations against the Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister. As reported, in early May it became known that the remains of 42 people were discovered at the site of exhumation work in the former village of Puzhnyky in the Ternopil region. Lead singer David Lee Roth, left, and lead guitarist Eddie Van Halen of the rock group Van Halen perform at the Spectrum in Philadelphia, Pa., on Oct. 19, 1982. (Associated Press file photo) Someone could pay a pretty penny for a guitar that was designed for and played by Eddie Van Halen. Van Halens iconic 1982 Kramer Electric guitar is expected to sell for between $2 and $3 million in a Sothebuys online auction. The instrument was designed to resemble Van Halens famous red with black-and-white stripes Frankenstein guitar. The rock legend played the Kramer guitar on tour in 1982 and 1983 at concerts in the United States and South America, according to the auctions website. There is photo documentation showing Van Halen playing the instrument at shows in Philadelphia, Caracas, Sao Paulo and Buenos Aires. The guitar was also featured in a famous Kramer advertisement. It was eventually sold to former Motley Crue guitarist Mick Mars who played it extensively while recording the bands 1989 album Dr Feelgood and other projects. The original Frankenstein guitar was from 1975 which this guitar is based upon, represented Eddie Van Halens goal of combining some of the best elements of Fender and Gibson electric guitars into a single new musical instrument that was not commercially available at the time, the auction page reads. Van Halen was endlessly striving to create the ultimate guitar for tone, playability and dependability, the page continued. This Kramer guitar personifies not only EVHs innovative playing style but also his passion for design and engineering. This guitar is amongst his most iconic and identifiable instruments, encouraging copies from other manufacturers and inspired generations of fans to design their own instruments. The highest bidder will also get the guitars case and a letter of authenticity from Mick Mars where he states: Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Also its a great piece of history. The auction will take place between Oct. 21-28, Billboard reported, A guitar used by Van Halen in a video for Hot for Teacher sold for $3.9 million in 2023, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The Trump administrations impending review of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. has put the brakes on a Weird Al Yankovic exhibition. The musician known for his parody songs such as Eat It and Amish Paradise planned to donate memorabilia to the Smithsonian for an exhibition about his career, according to avclub.com. Those plans, however, are now delayed. Im putting that on hold because, as you may have heard, the Smithsonian is going through some changes right now, and Im waiting until the dust settles, Yankovic said. Yankovic appears to be referring to a letter sent by the Trump administration to the Smithsonian stating that its eight museums will undergo a comprehensive internal review, according to NPR. 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 letter reads. The review of the museums is being done to ensure the exhibits are in line with President Donald Trumps directives for the countrys 250th anniversary celebrations, NPR reports. The letter comes a month after a temporary placard referencing Trumps two impeachments was removed from the National Museum of American Historys exhibit of the presidency. Amid public outcry, the Smithsonian said the removal of the placard was temporary and said it was not pressured by any government officials to change its exhibits, according to CNN. The placard has since been restored but changes have been made to its text, CNN reports. Theres trouble in the air in Massachusetts literally. In recent years, air pollution from Canadian wildfire smoke has begun to cause more bad air quality days each summer, according to Glenn Keith, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protections (MassDEP) director of air and climate programs. Every year, wildfires rage across Canadas large forests as the weather warms, and when weather conditions are right, the smoke from the fires drifts down to New England and pollutes our air, Keith said. This has been happening more often in recent years largely as a result of climate change, experts said. Many fear the number of bad air quality days from Canadian wildfire smoke will only increase in years to come as societies are slow to take action to curb climate change. So far, Massachusetts is experiencing, on average, about a handful of bad air quality days each summer due to Canadian wildfire smoke, Keith said. Additionally, air pollution from ozone, a different pollutant, affects air quality in Massachusetts. But even moderate levels of this type of air pollution can cause health problems for children, the elderly and people with underlying respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, and no amount of exposure is safe for anyone, experts said. Even just one day of exposure can impact someone even without underlying conditions cause them to wheeze a little bit, their eyes to water, shortness of breath and things like that, Boston University climate and health researcher Jennifer Stowell said. So even one day can have an impact. Whats happening? While Canadian wildfires are expected each year, climate change has led to drier, hotter summers, experts said. As a result, the fires are bigger, hotter and produce more smoke, increasing the chances that the clouds of smoke drift down to Massachusetts and pollute our air. Massachusetts used to experience, at most, one bad air quality day due to wildfire smoke a year, if any, Keith said. Since 2021, the state has had at least four such days each year, and this year, the state has already reached that benchmark. Wildfire smoke clouds contain a particularly insidious type of air pollution known as fine particulate matter, experts said. Air quality trackers, like those at MassDEP, monitor for particles that are 2.5 micrometers in diameter known as PM 2.5. Those are tiny enough to actually go deep inside your lungs and then eventually enter the bloodstream, Western New England pharmacology Professor Kyung Hong said. They can actually cause more of what we call whole body type of responses. MassDEPs Massachusetts air quality tracker shows that PM 2.5 air pollution has only reached levels high enough to be considered unhealthy for the general public on five days in the last five years. But during that time span, the state has seen dozens of days on which fine particle air pollution was at high enough levels to cause health problems for sensitive populations and people with underlying conditions. What are the short-term impacts? PM 2.5 exposure can cause a range of symptoms, according to Endicott College critical and acute care Professor Cindy Mitsakis. Respiratory problems such as coughing, a sore or scratchy throat, constricted airways and breathing issues are common, as are burning eyes. Those having breathing problems may also experience a headache, dizziness or fatigue from the lack of oxygen, she said. The longer and harder you breathe in PM 2.5-polluted air, the more likely you are to develop health issues, experts said. Most at risk are children who breathe more often than adults, sensitive populations such as the elderly and immunocompromised, and people with underlying heart or lung conditions. Their bodys going to be very taxed by this. Anybody with baggage, for lack of better words, she said. Can wildfire smoke cause lung disease? More research is required to determine what kind of health issues could result from long-term exposure to wildfire smoke, but its safe to assume that the impact on the body is similar to that of smoking, experts said. Most studies on the short- and long-term health impacts of PM 2.5 exposure have been focused on particles from vehicle and industrial emissions, experts said. Researchers have often found a link between exposure to high levels if this type of fine particle and increased rates of heart disease, lung disease and cancer, as well as temporary increases in hospitalizations due to respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Mitsakis and Hong both suggested that long-term wildfire smoke exposure may also play a role in causing health problems involving the kidneys and brain. Stowell similarly spoke to a need to study its impact on mental health. Your body is one big circuit, and it works together, Mitsakis said. So if your kidneys arent working, it affects your heart, it affects your breathing. Same thing if your lungs dont work it makes everything work harder." Will we ever know? Right now, research into the long-term impacts of wildfire smoke exposure is in peril, UMass Lowell environmental health Professor Joel Tickner said. The Trump administration is in the process of pulling back money for the National Institutes of Health and shutting down the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Office of Research and Development. These are the federal organizations that would typically conduct research on air pollution, Tickner said. Additionally, the Trump administration is working to downsize federal agencies that monitor pollution, such as the EPA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). With fewer staff, these agencies may share data less frequently or produce lower quality information, Tickner said. Are we gonna put our heads in the sand and pretend that theres not a problem? he said. What can people do to protect themselves? Regardless of what specific health conditions wildfire smoke exposure might ultimately be linked to, experts agree that any exposure to elevated levels of PM 2.5 from wildfire smoke is bad for your health. The level of danger is real, and you want to prevent exposure if you can, Tickner said. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to simply stay indoors with doors and windows closed and sealed even if that means missing, postponing or canceling an outdoor event, experts said. Those with window air conditioners should note that they often dont filter out fine particles, but many air purifiers on the market specify that they remove PM 2.5. If you must go outside, avoid doing activities that lead to heavy breathing such as exercise, experts said. It can also help to wear a mask capable of filtering out fine particles, such as an N95. The U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) rates air quality with a number, with lower numbers meaning less air pollution and higher numbers indicating more. At-risk groups may begin to be affected at 50 AQI or greater. At 100, even if youre not sensitive, I still wouldnt go do heavy exercise, Tickner said. Once you get over 200, you just shouldnt be outside. How do we fix the problem? Ultimately, the best way to address air pollution from wildfire smoke is to curb the impact of climate change, Stowell said. But in the meantime, state and local governments can take action to protect their citizens. Right now, MassDEP is focused on sending out air quality alerts so that people know when to take action to protect themselves, Keith said. Stowell recommended that local governments try to amplify the reach of these alerts, share information about how to protect yourself from air pollution and ensure this information is easily accessible and in multiple languages. State and local officials could also find ways to decrease local sources of PM 2.5, such as vehicle and industrial emissions, and utilize forest management best practices to prevent local wildfires, Tickner said. Together, these actions would bring down the overall number of fine particles in the air so that Canadian wildfire smoke is less likely to bring concentrations to dangerous levels. Leaders in the public and private sectors should also consider how they might prevent employees from having to work outside during bad air quality days, Stowell said. I think its really about being prepared, having good communication channels and educating the medical community on what to do and how to advise patients, Tickner said. A fatal boat crash off Nantasket Beach on Saturday is being investigated by Cohasset police, with police divers investigating the area near Docks Island off Black Rock Beach, the department said in a statement on Thursday. On Aug. 9, the Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit and U.S. Coast Guard responded to the beach to investigate a report of a capsized boat around noon, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruzs office said in a statement. Investigators soon found Michael LaRhette, 56, of Hingham, in the water and unresponsive, Cruzs office said. He was taken by boat to a Coast Guard station, where he was pronounced dead. The crash was determined to have happened within Cohassets coastal jurisdictional waters, police said Thursday. Cohasset police detectives and the departments marine unit are assisting Massachusetts State Police troopers and Massachusetts Environmental Police in the investigation. Members of the public are advised to use caution when operating vessels near Doctors Island off Black Rock Beach, as police divers are currently working in the area, police said. For safety reasons, please maintain a safe distance from all marked police vessels, and be alert to restricted zones. The Massachusetts Chief Medical Examiners Office has accepted the case and will determine LaRhettes manner and cause of death, the district attorneys office said. An investigation into his death and the boat crash is ongoing. AT&T agrees to a $177 million settlement in connection with two data breaches that occurred in 2024. AP AT&T customers affected by two separate data breaches can expect a payout after the telecommunications giant agreed to a $177 million settlement. U.S. District Judge Ada Brown granted preliminary approval to the settlement funds from AT&T in the amount of $177 million, according to court records filed on June 20. The settlement administration began accepting claims from affected customers on Aug. 4. The total settlement amount is split into two funds addressing two data incidents. The larger portion is in the amount of $149 million for a data incident related to a dataset from 2019 or earlier. In March 2024, AT&T said it discovered that sensitive information of current and former account holders was shown on the dark web. The data exposed details such as full names, email addresses, mailing address, phone numbers, dates of birth and AT&T account numbers for about 7.6 million current account holders and 65.4 million former account holders at the time. A separate $28 million fund is designated for another AT&T data incident which occurred in April 2024. This data incident, which became publicly known around July 2024, involved a third-party cloud data platform (reportedly Snowflake), which exposed call and text records for nearly all AT&T customers between May 2022 and October 2022 and some records from January 2023. About 109 million U.S. customers were involved, according to the settlement. The total settlement payment across both incidents is $177 million, the records state, adding that AT&T has not admitted to liability or wrongdoing in these events. While we deny the allegations in these lawsuits that we were responsible for these criminal acts, we have agreed to this settlement to avoid the expense and uncertainty of protracted litigation, AT&T told MassLive on July 28. We remain committed to protecting our customers data and ensuring their continued trust in us. Customers impacted by either incident will receive notices via email and/or written notification that will include instructions on how to file a claim. Customers can also submit a claim here. The deadline to opt out or object to the settlements will be Oct. 17, the records state. The deadline to submit claim forms is Nov. 18. Payments are expected to commence in early 2026. The highest payments for those impacted by the first breach are $5,000, the statement reads. The top payment for the second breach is $2,500. Remaining funds would then be distributed to others who were impacted. A final approval hearing for the case has been set for Dec. 3. Kelsey Fitzsimmons, a North Andover police officer, appears via Zoom in Essex Superior Court for a bail review petition on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. She is currently hospitalized after being shot in the chest by another police officer in June. Essex Superior Court A North Andover police officer appeared virtually over Zoom in court on Thursday to challenge a judges ruling that she is too dangerous to be let out on bail. Kelsey Fitzsimmons, 28, a member of the North Andover Police Department, was shot in June by a fellow member of her police department who claimed she pointed a gun at him while serving a restraining order obtained by Fitzsimmons fiancee. She is currently hospitalized in Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, but her defense attorney said she is a few days away from being physically eligible to be discharged. A judge last week, however, ordered her held without bail under the states dangerousness law at her arraignment. Fitzsimmons is challenging the judges ruling in an attempt to fight for custody of her 6-month-old baby. On Thursday, Fitzimmons and her defense team argued before a different judge in Essex Superior Court that she should be allowed to be released from the hospital under proposed terms that include weekly counseling and partial hospitalization level of care, a plan that her attorney said was made in coordination with hospital staff. The proposed terms would also include her living with her mother in Methuen. Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman did not issue a ruling on the bail petition on Thursday and took it under advisement. Troubling issue raised by judge Attorney Timothy Bradl represented Fitzsimmons at Thursdays hearing, where Bradl contested the allegations brought by members of the North Andover Police Department and prosecutors. A health expert hired by Fitzsimmons defense evaluated her, and he wrote in a report shared with the court: Ms. Fitzsimmons reveals herself as a deeply caring mother who, under an unimaginable confluence of stressors, experienced an acute transient psychological crisis. The keyword for the court here in this hearing is transient, Bradl said. She has been in the grips of postpartum depression, which she has been trying to get help with. She, in the space of a 30-second conversation, shes lost her marriage, her career, and her baby ... So thats the context of the incident. While Bradl and James Gubitose, a prosecutor for the Essex District Attorneys Office, both delved into the history of Fitzsimmons case, Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman drew attention to one of the most troubling facts. On June 30, three North Andover police officers arrived at Fitzsimmons home to deliver the restraining order, confiscate her three guns and take custody of her child, according to descriptions of events by Gubitose and Bradl and a police report filed in Lawrence District Court. They asked her where the weapons were, Gubitose said in court. She said all of the weapons were secured down in the basement. Turns out they werent. That was a lie. Eventually, Fitzsimmons went upstairs to gather some of the babys belongings, and Officer Patrick Noonan waited outside the doorway in the hall, Gubitose said. She was in her room ... folding baby clothes, when she reached over or lunged over to behind the door frame where the officer couldnt see. She got her service weapon, aimed it at Officer Noonan, and pulled the trigger. Luckily, there was no round in the chamber, Gubitose said. The gun did not fire, but it clicked, he said. The officer then said something to the effect of, No, dont do it, according to Gubitose. Fitizsimmons was in the process of racking the gun to load a round into the chamber, Gubitose said. When she did that, he fired one shot, missed and fired another shot, Gubitose said. Fearing for his life, he struck her in the chest. The judge found the allegation that Fitzsimmons misrepresented where her guns were to be troubling. As a police officer, she should understand the importance of knowing that the place or location theyre going to serve a domestic restraining order should be a safe place, McCarthy-Neyman, the judge, said. And to misrepresent that firearms are safely secured in the basement when theyre within arms reach of the defendant is, I think, one of the most troubling facts in this case. Bradl, however, said that Fitzsimmons denied telling police that all three guns in the home were in the basement, adding that she also denies pointing the gun at her fellow police officer. The first thing she said to me when I met her, when I raised this issue, this extremely shocking allegation that shed point a gun at this guy, she said, I would never point a gun at a fellow law enforcement officer, Bradl said. The police did not wear body cameras, as Bradl noted, and he said there were no police officers who witnessed the incident to corroborate the events. He also said Fitzsimmons is in the midst of a custody dispute with her fiancee over their child, born in February, and that she could not air out custody claims in probate court if she continues to be held without the right to bail. What charges does Fitzsimmons face? Fitzsimmons faces an assault to murder charge and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon in Lawrence District Court, which she pleaded not guilty to last week. The charges stem from the June 30 incident, which the Essex County District Attorneys Office previously described as an armed confrontation. Fitzsimmons was on leave at the time of the incident and set to return to duty on July 4, Bradl said. Fitzsimmons graduated from the police academy in May 2024, and she issued a statement last month addressing the shooting. She said she tried to take her own life when officers were serving her the restraining order and that she suffered from postpartum depression at the time of the incident. In the statement, Fitzsimmons said her fiancee turned his back on her and is now legally bullying me to get what [he] want[s], slandering my character, and using my diagnosis against me to make me seem like I am a monster. There are more false allegations than I can even comment on, the statement reads. Fitzsimmons gave birth to her first child in February and said she was undergoing treatment at the time of the shooting. She denied ever pointing her gun at a fellow officer in her statement. Fitzsimmons certification to work in law enforcement has been suspended following the incident. She had won her gun license back shortly before being served the restraining order, which ordered her to turn in her firearm. The cosmetics brand e.l.f. has spoken out after receiving backlash over its recent ad, which features comedian Matt Rife, a celebrity criticized for joking about domestic violence. The ad, which debuted on Aug. 10, stars Rife, who plays a fictional injury lawyer, e.l.f.ino alongside his partner Schmarnes, depicted by drag performer Heidi N Closet. According to e.l.f.s press release, the campaign was meant to be a humorous take on high-priced beauty products. Hey, girl. Has over-priced beauty hurt your wallet? Rife says in the parody. I know a thing or two about red flags. And pricey makeup? You deserve better than that. After watching the ad, viewers quickly brought up Rifes history of misogynistic bits from his 2023 Netflix special Matt Rife: Natural Selection, where at one point he joked about a woman receiving a black eye for not cooking well. When he received criticism for the joke at the time, Rife responded on Instagram, saying, If youve ever been offended by a joke Ive told-heres link to my official apology, he wrote, according to NBC News. The link in his Instagram story lead to a medical website that sells helmets for people with disabilities. e.l.f responded to the concerns via a statement on Instagram, saying the campaign was meant to humorously spotlight beauty injustice. You know us, were always listening and weve heard you, the statement begins. ... we understand we missed the mark with people we care about in our e.l.f community. while e.l.f.ino & schmarnes closes today, well continue to make the case against overpriced beauty. However, people on Instagram took to the comments again, requesting that the makeup company take down the campaign entirely. Words over actions pls take that post down I know it cost a lot of money but this is the price to pay if you truly care about your community, one Instagram user wrote. Im literally trying to help. Another commenter wrote, Im sorry but this is a non apology? What exactly is e.l.f going to do other than say you missed the mark? Now would be a good time to donate to & highlight organization that support [domestic violence] survivors. The e.l.f ad controversy comes weeks after American Eagle received backlash for having racist connotations in its latest denim campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney. As of Aug. 14, Matt Rife has not publicly responded to the backlash surrounding the e.l.f ad. Officers are investigating the shooting of a woman who was walking her dog by a pond in Carver on Wednesday, which investigators believe was not random, the Carver Police Department said Thursday. At around 7:37 p.m., a 28-year-old woman entered the police station and said she was shot at Sampson Pond, according to police in a statement. After she showed officers her leg and saw she was shot, Carver EMS arrived, treated her leg and took her to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. The gunshot wound appeared not to be life-threatening, police said. Carver police investigated the area where the woman was shot, with the help of a Massachusetts State Police Air Wing helicopter, a Plymouth County Sheriffs Office K-9 unit, and a drone unit from the Rochester Police Department, police said. The shooting remains under investigation. While investigators believe this was not a random act of violence, they also believe that there is no ongoing threat to the public, the statement read. We are taking this report very seriously and are devoting all necessary resources to determine exactly what happened, Carver Police Chief Marc Duphily said in the statement. We ask residents to report any information they believe is relevant to the investigation to our department. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to call Carver police at 508-866-2000. A Westford man died Thursday after being pulled from the water at a lake in New Hampshire, authorities say. Jack Bilodeau, 81, was swimming at Lake Winnisquam near Mohawk Island in Tilton at 11:35 a.m. when he was seen having a possible medical event, according to New Hampshire State Police. Police believe he may have been swimming after his drifting boat. Bilodeau went under the water briefly before he was pulled out by a good Samaritan who continued trying to save him once on shore, police said. Once first responders arrived, Bilodeau was brought to Concord Hospital-Laconia, where he was pronounced dead. Bilodeaus death is under investigation, and anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Marine Patrol Officer Bryant Tarr at 603-293-2037 or bryant.a.tarr@dos.nh.gov. A retired Massachusetts State Police trooper has been sentenced to three months in federal prison for his role in a bribery scheme to provide Commercial Drivers License credentials to applicants who were not qualified. Calvin Butner, 64, of Halifax was sentenced to three months plus one year of supervised release with the first three months in home confinement, according to a news release from the Office of the U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts. Between May 2019 and January 2023, authorities say, Butner and three others within the Massachusetts State Police CDL Unit, which is responsible for administering CDL skills tests, agreed to give passing scores to at least 17 applicants, regardless of whether they passed the test. They used the code word golden to identify these applicants to each other. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, Butner texted a co-conspirator about some of these applicants who he passed. This guys a mess. . . . Lol. He owes u a prime rib 6inch, he wrote about one applicant. Total mess this guy[.] i think some time[s] we should just do what we can but not golden. Ill tell you about it later, he wrote about another. Authorities say Butner gave passing scores to three people who failed the test and five who did not take the test at all. In exchange for the passing grades, the troopers involved in the scheme received thousands of dollars in gifts and services, MassLive previously reported. Butner and five others were indicted in the scheme in January 2024. He pleaded guilty in April to conspiracy to falsify records, three counts of falsifying records and aiding and abetting and five counts of making false statements. Perry Mendes, another of the troopers who was charged in the scheme, was sentenced to one month in prison earlier this month. Gary Cederquist, the units sergeant who was convicted of being the ringleader of teh scheme, is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 16. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine at a meeting on Wednesday set the minimum wage for veteran support specialists at UAH 25,000, the Ukrainian government website reported on Thursday. "The goal of our work is for every veteran and their family to feel real support from the state," said Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko. She also reported that, together with the public and the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, she has prepared a strategy for comprehensive support for veterans and their family members until 2030, which has already begun to be implemented, as well as a bill that will ensure a holistic approach. "The next step is the registration of the Law on the Foundations of State Veteran Policy. It takes into account all stages of the veteran's journey and meets modern needs," Svyrydenko said. LONGMEADOW A motorcyclist died in Longmeadow on Tuesday after colliding with a pickup truck exiting an emergency turnaround Interstate 91 North. Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni expressed his condolences to the victims family Thursday. The victim hasnt been identified. Preliminary findings suggest the pickup truck, a 2023 Ford Maverick, was traveling south through construction traffic when its driver crossed into the northbound side using the emergency turnaround, Gulluni said. Mercantile Center building in downtown Worcester, as seen in 2022. (Trea Lavery, MassLive) Editors note: MassLive is a tenant of Venture X in the Mercantile Center building. The president of a company that lists the Mercantile Center in downtown Worcester as one of its properties has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, according to court documents. Charles Chip Norton filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition for individuals with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts on June 23. The Mercantile buildings, located at 100 and 120 Front St., are used by more than 1,500 people, according to the Mercantile Center website. Notable tenants in the buildings include Kelleher & Sadowsky Associates, the Worcester District Registry of Deeds, the Telegram & Gazette and MassLive. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is when an individual appointed by a court to oversee a bankruptcy case gathers and sells the nonexempt assets of a person who owes money and uses the proceeds to pay creditors, according to the U.S. Courts website. According to court documents, Norton lists more than 150 people and entities to whom he owes money. These creditors include Country Bank, Webster Five Bank, MassDevelopment and Franklin Realty Advisors. Norton owes more than $1.7 million, according to the documents. However, filings by two creditors suggest Norton owes them a combined $70 million. The Ware-based Country Bank submitted a proof of claim in court for $67 million that was loaned for obligations connected with Nortons Front Street properties. A proof of claim is a formal statement filed by a creditor that states the amount of money the debtor owes. The Worcester-based Cornerstone Bank also filed a proof of claim in court for $1.67 million connected with money loaned to Norton. A spokesperson for Norton sent a statement on his behalf on Wednesday, reading that it was fulfilling to play a role in growing Worcester and Worcester County. However, the statement did not address Nortons bankruptcy proceedings. Were immensely proud of the times we opened our doors to our communities, the ribbons we cut welcoming new businesses to the region, and the large investments weve made across Central Massachusetts and in our downtown areas in excess of $200 million, the statement reads. We will continue to celebrate the regions bright future. Reached Tuesday, an attorney for Norton also declined to comment about the bankruptcy filing. Franklin Realty Advisors did not respond to multiple requests for comment this week. Additionally, Cornerstone Bank filed a lawsuit in Worcester Superior Court against Norton on May 9. The lawsuit claims that Norton failed to make payments on a loan worth more than $1.6 million, along with a personal guaranty agreement, according to the lawsuit. The lawsuit also claims that Norton sold properties in Dover and Falmouth at a price much lower than their market value and transferred them to his wife. Mr. Nortons transfers of his interest in the Dover Property and Falmouth Property were made with actual intent to hinder, delay, or defraud his creditors, including the Bank, the lawsuit reads. An employee from Cornerstone Bank declined to comment on Tuesday. Cornerstone Banks lawsuit is one of at least five that Norton faces, court documents reveal. The United States Bankruptcy Code allows a person who has filed for Chapter 7 to keep certain property they deem exempt from bankruptcy but a trustee will liquidate that persons remaining assets, according to the U.S. Courts website. Examples of possessions that can be sold are luxury items such as jewelry or secondary vacation homes. According to court documents, Norton has made multiple payments over $5,000 to Ferrari Financial, the Ferrari car companys financing firm. He has also purchased gifts for multiple people, including a Swiss Air ticket worth more than $4,000 and a Toyota Land Cruiser worth $11,000. Unclear relationships Norton is listed as the president and owner of Franklin Realty Advisors, a Wellesley-based firm that, according to its website, owns the Mercantile Center and several other buildings, including The Worcester Business Center and the Southbridge Innovation Center. However, there is conflicting information as to Nortons connection with Franklin Realty Advisors, and over the companys relationship to the buildings. A lawsuit filed in Worcester Superior Court against Norton by the Worcester-based Lauring Construction Co. Inc., reads that the construction company learned Norton stepped away from his duties sometime in the Spring. Although the lawsuit suggests that Norton stepped down, his LinkedIn profile still lists him as the president of Franklin Realty Advisors. The Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Website also lists Norton as the manager of the company. A spokesperson declined to comment about Nortons current status and whether Franklin Realty Advisors still owns the buildings. Lauring Construction did not immediately respond to a request for comment this week. The Mercantile Center Buildings are currently being managed by Eastport Real Estate, a Wakefield-based company, an employee from the Eastport told MassLive on Wednesday. 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The cyclists, who include some based locally in Mayo and Roscommon and also the UK, raised funds for the work of the McCarthy-Dixon Foundation in Northamptonshire, and also six charities supporting communities in Mayo and the northwest region. Those were Erris Youth Disability Network (EYDN), Erris Family & Community Support Centre (EFCSC), Erris Heartbeat Defibrillator, Cara Iorrais, CLG Beal an Mhuirthead, and also North West STOP. The challenge was organised by charity founder Teresa McCarthy-Dixon, her husband Anthony Dixon, and Paul Deane of Deane Roofing and Cladding. The team travelled through the Midlands in the U.K on day one ending their day in Uttoxeter. On day two, the team cycled towards the Shropshire borderlands before making their way to the Welsh border. On the fourth day of the journey, the team made the ferry crossing to Holyhead as they set off for Lisacul where they were welcomed by members of the community. On Thursday, August 7, the group finished their journey as they reached Belmullet where they were met with a heartfelt welcome from local members as well as friends and family of the group including some who made the trip over from the U.K. 75 % of the funds raised will go towards the Mc Carthy - Dixon Foundation while the other 25% of funds will be split between the six Mayo local charities. You can still donate by clicking here. READ MORE: Meet the Mayo woman aiming to build Westport out of Lego "Don't ask me out on Saturday night because Im busy washing my Lego, Mayo native Caroline Drake Conway laughs as she takes us into her world of Lego. She moved back home to Westport two years ago and has been running very popular Lego workshops for children under the banner of 'Mixies Brixies'. Mixie's Brixies is named after Carolines late father, Micksie Conway, and it is based in his old workshop. It was only during the Covid-19 pandemic that she and her two boys started taking their Lego collection back out from storage in the garage. It just kind of snowballed from there. Rooms in the house were converted, and sheds were built to store the Lego displays. The Lego workshops are very popular with school groups and sensory groups, and she plans to run Lego workshops for adults in the future too. She lights up when she explains that participants can build from their imagination, using the freestyle Lego or build sets from the instructions, and it gets them away from the devices for a couple of hours and everybody's happy! Its amazing, you could have thirty or forty kids in some of the workshops, and it's so quiet. It's amazing, a room full of children, and they're so concentrated. It's lovely when they finish a piece, and they're so excited. WESTPORT IN LEGO Her ultimate plan is to build Westport in Lego, and she is actively looking for a display space in the town to showcase her Lego creations. She currently has well-known Westport landmarks such as Octagon, the Clock, and Trishas Kitchen in Lego form. In the future, the enthusiastic creator hopes to be able to sell versions of these sets, as well as a small brick mosaic depicting the town, to those living far from home as a memento. She also commissioned a Canadian designer to create a Lego version of St Marys Church in Westport. The magnificent design has 22,500 Lego blocks in it and comes with a fully fitted interior and is wired with lighting. Test builders in the UK made sure all the pieces fit together and were then meant to dismantle it and send it on to Caroline in Ireland. But when they built it, they were so impressed with it, they didn't want to dismantle it, and so they drove it home from London. She plans to put it on display in the church and can change the scenes to suit different events. She has Lego versions of local characters such as Fr John Kenny, Ollie Whyte, and Pakie McEvilly, as well as St Patrick getting rid of the snakes (and the Dublin team!). WORKSHOP TOUR Those were far from the only homages to Mayo scattered throughout the maze of creations. On one shelf, the front of Matt Molloys bar sits proudly, while on another, an astronaut waving a green and red flag as he floats through space can be found. In a corner, a version of the Statue of Liberty with a miniature Sam Maguire sits, with the flame of Lady Libertys torch replaced by an ONeills ball. The boundless creativity of Caroline is clear to see, even without going into the dozens of non-Mayo-themed creations adorning the many nooks and crannies. When her children were growing up, their fascination with Lego wasnt quite shared by their mother. I wasn't too gone on Lego everywhere, she smirked. However, that decision to take out those bricks from the garage lit a spark that has only grown and grown. Now, it has created something truly special. Stepping through the door of her fathers old workshop reveals a Lego builders paradise. From the drawers of colour-coordinated bricks to the hundreds of mini-figures staring back at you, its easy to see how the days could be whittled away, letting your imagination run wild. If the hospitality, passion, and sincerity we were blessed to experience when coming through the doors of Mixies Brixies is the same as that which those who attend the workshops receive, then theres no reason this venture would be anything short of a hit. If you are interested in learning more about the Mixies Brixies workshops, more information can be found by clicking here. The Embassy of Ukraine in Poland has appealed to the competent Polish authorities to thoroughly investigate the case of a 17-year-old Ukrainian citizen detained on suspicion of committing acts of vandalism, respecting his rights, and sees his actions as a provocation by the Russian special services. "The Embassy strongly condemns any shameful actions directed against places of memory. We regard this as a provocation by the Russian special services aimed at creating tension between our peoples. Ukraine consistently advocates respect for historical memory both its own and the memory of our neighbors. We condemn any manifestations of vandalism and acts of hatred," the embassy said in a Facebook message. The diplomatic mission emphasizes that anyone who violates the laws of the state in whose territory they are located must be held accountable in accordance with current legislation. "The embassy is also awaiting a response from Polish law enforcement agencies regarding acts of vandalism that were previously committed against Ukrainian memorial sites in Poland," the statement said. As previously reported, the Polish Internal Security Agency (ABW) detained a Ukrainian citizen who, on the orders of foreign intelligence, committed acts of sabotage. "ABW and police detained a 17-year-old Ukrainian citizen who, on the orders of foreign intelligence services, was looting monuments to UPA victims... and public buildings with anti-Polish inscriptions," said Minister-Coordinator of Intelligence Services Tomasz Siemoniak, emphasizing that these actions were aimed at "inciting tension between Poles and Ukrainians." Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk also commented on the Ukrainian's detention on Wednesday. According to TVN 24, Tusk spoke about this at a press conference "after a series of meetings of the country's leaders on achieving peace in Ukraine." "Provoking conflicts or enmity between Ukrainians and Poles is very often the result of actions by foreign intelligence services," Tusk was quoted as saying by TVN 24. According to the head of the Polish government, this is not the first case of such detention. "This young Ukrainian was recruited by a foreign intelligence service. There is no better gift for Russians... Let us remember that in almost every such case, it is Russia that is behind attempts to stir up conflicts and anti-Polish emotions in Ukraine and anti-Ukrainian emotions in Poland," Tusk stressed. - FICHE DE POSTE - Intitule du poste : Ressources Humaines Departement : Administration Lieu daffectation : Direction Superieur hierarchique : Direction Type de contrat : Temps plein Adresse Email : jeffery@jefferytravels.com Delais : 31 aout 2025 1. Recrutement et gestion du personnel Annonces de recrutement : Publier les offres d'emploi pour des postes tels que conseillers en voyages, agents de service a la clientele, responsables marketing, guides touristiques, etc. : Publier les offres d'emploi pour des postes tels que conseillers en voyages, agents de service a la clientele, responsables marketing, guides touristiques, etc. Entrevues et recrutement : Selectionner les candidatures, organiser des entretiens et embaucher les candidats correspondant aux besoins de l'agence. : Selectionner les candidatures, organiser des entretiens et embaucher les candidats correspondant aux besoins de l'agence. Integration : Veiller a ce que les nouveaux employes comprennent leur role, la culture de l'agence et les politiques internes. 2. Formation et developpement Orientation : Presenter aux nouveaux employes les services, la mission et les attentes de l'agence. : Presenter aux nouveaux employes les services, la mission et les attentes de l'agence. Formation continue : Offrir des opportunites de formation continue sur des sujets comme la connaissance des destinations, les systemes de reservation, le service client, ou encore la maitrise des langues (si necessaire). : Offrir des opportunites de formation continue sur des sujets comme la connaissance des destinations, les systemes de reservation, le service client, ou encore la maitrise des langues (si necessaire). Developpement des competences : Proposer des formations pour la progression de carriere, comme le developpement du leadership, les techniques de vente, ou des certifications specifiques a l'industrie (par exemple, formations IATA). 3. Relations et communication avec les employes Resolution de conflits : Gerer et resoudre les conflits entre les employes ou entre les employes et la direction. : Gerer et resoudre les conflits entre les employes ou entre les employes et la direction. Engagement des employes : Organiser des evenements ou des programmes pour ameliorer le moral, promouvoir lesprit dequipe et sassurer que les employes se sentent valorises. : Organiser des evenements ou des programmes pour ameliorer le moral, promouvoir lesprit dequipe et sassurer que les employes se sentent valorises. Communication ouverte : Maintenir des lignes de communication claires et ouvertes entre la direction et les employes, en veillant a ce que leurs preoccupations soient entendues et traitees. 4. Remuneration et avantages Structure salariale : Developper une grille salariale competitive et veiller a ce quelle respecte les normes legales en matiere de salaire. : Developper une grille salariale competitive et veiller a ce quelle respecte les normes legales en matiere de salaire. Primes et incitations : Mettre en place des primes basees sur la performance ou des systemes de commissions, particulierement pour les postes de vente ou de conseils en voyages. : Mettre en place des primes basees sur la performance ou des systemes de commissions, particulierement pour les postes de vente ou de conseils en voyages. Gestion des avantages : Administrer les avantages sociaux des employes, tels que l'assurance maladie, les conges payes et les plans de retraite 5. Gestion de la paie et conformite Administration de la paie : Assurer le paiement correct et ponctuel des salaires des employes. : Assurer le paiement correct et ponctuel des salaires des employes. Conformite legale : Garantir que l'agence respecte les lois locales sur le travail, notamment les lois fiscales, les regles de sante et de securite, ainsi que les droits des employes (par exemple, les politiques de non-discrimination). : Garantir que l'agence respecte les lois locales sur le travail, notamment les lois fiscales, les regles de sante et de securite, ainsi que les droits des employes (par exemple, les politiques de non-discrimination). Tenue des dossiers : Maintenir des dossiers precis sur les employes, incluant les contrats, les evaluations de performance et les releves de presence. 6. Sante, securite et bien-etre Securite au travail : S'assurer que l'environnement de travail respecte les normes de sante et de securite. : S'assurer que l'environnement de travail respecte les normes de sante et de securite. Bien-etre des employes : Mettre en place des programmes ou des initiatives pour promouvoir le bien-etre physique et mental des employes, ce qui est particulierement important dans des roles a forte pression comme le service client. 7. Gestion de la performance Fixation des attentes : Definir clairement les roles, responsabilites et standards de performance. : Definir clairement les roles, responsabilites et standards de performance. Evaluations de performance : Realiser des evaluations regulieres pour evaluer la performance individuelle, fournir des retours constructifs et definir des objectifs futurs. : Realiser des evaluations regulieres pour evaluer la performance individuelle, fournir des retours constructifs et definir des objectifs futurs. Mesures disciplinaires : Gerer les problemes de performance ou de comportement en appliquant les mesures disciplinaires appropriees, conformement a la politique de l'agence. 8. Retention des employes et satisfaction Entretiens de sortie : Lorsqu'un employe quitte l'agence, organiser des entretiens de sortie pour comprendre les raisons de son depart et recueillir des retours sur la facon d'ameliorer le lieu de travail. : Lorsqu'un employe quitte l'agence, organiser des entretiens de sortie pour comprendre les raisons de son depart et recueillir des retours sur la facon d'ameliorer le lieu de travail. Strategies de retention : Mettre en place des programmes visant a fideliser les talents cles, tels que des parcours de developpement de carriere, des programmes de reconnaissance ou des initiatives en faveur de lequilibre travail-vie personnelle. 9. Diversite et inclusion Promouvoir l'inclusivite : Favoriser un environnement de travail diversifie et garantir l'egalite des chances pour tous les employes. : Favoriser un environnement de travail diversifie et garantir l'egalite des chances pour tous les employes. Sensibilite culturelle : Etant donne le caractere international de l'industrie du voyage, les employes doivent souvent travailler avec des personnes de cultures differentes. Les RH doivent donc promouvoir la sensibilisation et la comprehension de la diversite culturelle. 10. Responsabilites legales et ethiques Confidentialite : Garantir que les informations personnelles des employes et toutes les donnees sensibles sont traitees de maniere confidentielle et securisee. : Garantir que les informations personnelles des employes et toutes les donnees sensibles sont traitees de maniere confidentielle et securisee. Documentation legale : Superviser la realisation de la documentation necessaire, telle que les contrats de travail, les formulaires fiscaux et toute autre paperasse legale requise. 11. Technologie et outils Gestion des logiciels RH : Utiliser des logiciels RH pour faciliter les taches administratives, telles que la gestion de la paie, le suivi des performances et la gestion des donnees des employes. : Utiliser des logiciels RH pour faciliter les taches administratives, telles que la gestion de la paie, le suivi des performances et la gestion des donnees des employes. Systemes de reservation : Sassurer que les employes sont formes a lutilisation des systemes de reservation et des outils logiciels de lagence pour ameliorer la productivite. 12. Avantages et reductions pour les employes Reductions pour le personnel : Certaines agences de voyages offrent des reductions a leurs employes sur les forfaits de voyage, les billets ou les hebergements. Les RH gerent ces avantages et veillent a ce que les employes soient informes des offres disponibles. : Certaines agences de voyages offrent des reductions a leurs employes sur les forfaits de voyage, les billets ou les hebergements. Les RH gerent ces avantages et veillent a ce que les employes soient informes des offres disponibles. Voyages incitatifs : Organiser des voyages de recompense pour les employes performants, ce qui permet aussi de promouvoir les services de lagence. Les ressources humaines dans une agence de voyages assurent une gestion efficace des employes, favorisent un environnement de travail positif et garantissent la conformite legale. Cela permet a l'agence de fournir un excellent service client tout en conservant des employes motives et bien formes. Veuillez aussi noter que le HR compris le entieriter de Jeffery Travels All countries Un rapport journalier est tres important Suivre que tout les bureau Jeffery on le fingerprint et cameras Suivres ces cameras et a chaque quinzaine nous envoyer le rapport des ces fingerprints In a travel agency, HR (Human Resources) plays a crucial role in ensuring that the organization runs efficiently by managing employee-related processes and fostering a productive work environment. Here are some key HR responsibilities in a travel agency: 1. Recruitment and Staffing Job Postings : Advertise job openings for positions such as travel agents, customer service representatives, marketing staff, tour guides, etc. : Advertise job openings for positions such as travel agents, customer service representatives, marketing staff, tour guides, etc. Interviewing and Hiring : Screen resumes, conduct interviews, and hire candidates who fit the agencys needs. : Screen resumes, conduct interviews, and hire candidates who fit the agencys needs. Onboarding: Ensure that new employees understand their role, the company culture, and policies. 2. Training and Development Orientation : Introduce new employees to the agencys services, mission, and expectations. : Introduce new employees to the agencys services, mission, and expectations. Ongoing Training : Provide continuous learning opportunities, such as destination knowledge, booking systems, customer service skills, and language proficiency (if relevant). : Provide continuous learning opportunities, such as destination knowledge, booking systems, customer service skills, and language proficiency (if relevant). Skill Development: Offer training for career progression, such as leadership development, sales techniques, and industry certifications (e.g., IATA training). 3. Employee Relations and Communication Conflict Resolution : Address and resolve conflicts between employees or between employees and management. : Address and resolve conflicts between employees or between employees and management. Employee Engagement : Organize events or programs to improve morale, promote teamwork, and ensure employees feel valued. : Organize events or programs to improve morale, promote teamwork, and ensure employees feel valued. Open Communication: Maintain clear and open lines of communication between management and staff, ensuring employees concerns are heard and addressed. 4. Compensation and Benefits Salary Structure : Develop competitive salary structures and ensure compliance with legal wage standards. : Develop competitive salary structures and ensure compliance with legal wage standards. Bonuses and Incentives : Implement performance-based bonuses or commission systems, especially for roles like sales agents or travel consultants. : Implement performance-based bonuses or commission systems, especially for roles like sales agents or travel consultants. Benefits Management: Administer employee benefits such as health insurance, paid time off (PTO), and retirement plans. 5. Payroll and Compliance Payroll Administration : Ensure that employees are paid correctly and on time. : Ensure that employees are paid correctly and on time. Legal Compliance : Ensure the agency complies with local labor laws, including tax laws, health and safety regulations, and employee rights (e.g., non-discrimination policies). : Ensure the agency complies with local labor laws, including tax laws, health and safety regulations, and employee rights (e.g., non-discrimination policies). Record Keeping: Maintain accurate employee records, including contracts, performance evaluations, and attendance logs. 6. Health, Safety, and Well-being Workplace Safety : Make sure the office environment complies with health and safety regulations. : Make sure the office environment complies with health and safety regulations. Employee Wellness: Implement programs or initiatives that promote employees' mental and physical well-being, which is especially important for high-stress roles in customer service. 7. Performance Management Setting Expectations : Define job roles, responsibilities, and performance standards clearly. : Define job roles, responsibilities, and performance standards clearly. Appraisals : Conduct regular performance reviews to assess individual performance, provide constructive feedback, and set future goals. : Conduct regular performance reviews to assess individual performance, provide constructive feedback, and set future goals. Disciplinary Actions: Handle performance or behavioral issues by implementing appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with company policy. 8. Employee Retention and Satisfaction Exit Interviews : When employees leave, HR should conduct exit interviews to understand reasons for departure and gather feedback on how to improve the workplace. : When employees leave, HR should conduct exit interviews to understand reasons for departure and gather feedback on how to improve the workplace. Retention Strategies: Implement programs to retain key talent, such as career development paths, recognition programs, and work-life balance initiatives. 9. Diversity and Inclusion Promote Inclusivity : Foster a diverse work environment and ensure equal opportunities for all employees. : Foster a diverse work environment and ensure equal opportunities for all employees. Cultural Sensitivity: Given the international nature of the travel industry, employees may be required to work with people from different cultures, so HR should promote awareness and sensitivity toward cultural diversity. 10. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Confidentiality : Ensure that employee information and any sensitive data are kept confidential and secure. : Ensure that employee information and any sensitive data are kept confidential and secure. Legal Documentation: Oversee the completion of necessary documentation such as work contracts, tax forms, and any other required legal paperwork. 11. Technology and Tools HR Software Management : Use HR software to streamline administrative tasks such as payroll, performance tracking, and employee data management. : Use HR software to streamline administrative tasks such as payroll, performance tracking, and employee data management. Booking Systems: Ensure that employees are trained in using the agency's booking systems and software tools to improve productivity. 12. Travel Benefits and Discounts Staff Discounts : Some travel agencies offer their employees discounts on travel packages, tickets, or accommodations. HR would manage this perk and ensure employees are informed about available benefits. : Some travel agencies offer their employees discounts on travel packages, tickets, or accommodations. HR would manage this perk and ensure employees are informed about available benefits. Incentive Travel: Organize incentive travel programs for high-performing employees, which also helps in showcasing the agencys services. HR in a travel agency ensures smooth operations by fostering a positive work environment, managing talent, and maintaining legal and operational compliance. This allows the agency to deliver exceptional customer service while retaining motivated, well-trained employees. For a business involved in car rentals, transfers, taxis, and protocols, HR (Human Resources) plays a crucial role in managing a diverse workforce, ensuring customer satisfaction, and maintaining legal and operational standards. Here are the key HR responsibilities tailored to this type of business: 1. Recruitment and Staffing Job Posting and Hiring : Advertise and recruit for various roles, including drivers (for rentals, taxis, transfers), customer service representatives, dispatchers, fleet managers, maintenance personnel, and protocol officers. : Advertise and recruit for various roles, including drivers (for rentals, taxis, transfers), customer service representatives, dispatchers, fleet managers, maintenance personnel, and protocol officers. Screening and Selection : Conduct background checks, verify licenses (e.g., for drivers), and ensure that candidates meet the companys service standards and legal requirements. : Conduct background checks, verify licenses (e.g., for drivers), and ensure that candidates meet the companys service standards and legal requirements. Onboarding: Provide new hires with a comprehensive introduction to company policies, safety protocols, and job expectations. 2. Driver Training and Development Safety and Compliance Training : Ensure drivers are trained in safe driving practices, traffic laws, and company policies. This is critical for ensuring customer safety and maintaining the company's reputation. : Ensure drivers are trained in safe driving practices, traffic laws, and company policies. This is critical for ensuring customer safety and maintaining the company's reputation. Customer Service Training : Teach drivers and other customer-facing employees effective communication, customer service skills, and dealing with difficult situations. : Teach drivers and other customer-facing employees effective communication, customer service skills, and dealing with difficult situations. Route and Navigation Training: Provide drivers with training on optimal routes, time management, and dealing with various types of traffic scenarios. 3. Employee Relations and Communication Conflict Resolution : Address and resolve any conflicts between drivers, office staff, or customers promptly to maintain a harmonious working environment. : Address and resolve any conflicts between drivers, office staff, or customers promptly to maintain a harmonious working environment. Team Engagement : Promote teamwork and employee engagement through regular meetings, feedback sessions, and company events. : Promote teamwork and employee engagement through regular meetings, feedback sessions, and company events. Communication Channels: Maintain open lines of communication between management and employees, ensuring that concerns or issues are addressed in a timely manner. 4. Compensation, Benefits, and Incentives Salary Structure and Pay : Develop a competitive pay structure for drivers, office staff, and other personnel, including base salaries, commissions, or bonuses based on performance (e.g., for drivers based on customer satisfaction or the number of successful bookings). : Develop a competitive pay structure for drivers, office staff, and other personnel, including base salaries, commissions, or bonuses based on performance (e.g., for drivers based on customer satisfaction or the number of successful bookings). Employee Benefits : Administer benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans, especially for full-time employees. : Administer benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans, especially for full-time employees. Incentive Programs: Implement incentive programs to motivate drivers, such as rewards for excellent customer service, punctuality, or safety records. 5. Payroll and Legal Compliance Payroll Management : Ensure that employees, especially drivers, are paid accurately and on time. This may include mileage-based compensation or hourly wages. : Ensure that employees, especially drivers, are paid accurately and on time. This may include mileage-based compensation or hourly wages. Legal Compliance : Ensure that the company follows all relevant local, state, and national labor laws, including those regarding driver licensing, working hours, minimum wage, and benefits. : Ensure that the company follows all relevant local, state, and national labor laws, including those regarding driver licensing, working hours, minimum wage, and benefits. Record Keeping: Maintain accurate records for all employees, including contracts, performance evaluations, and timesheets. 6. Health, Safety, and Well-being Driver Health and Safety : Implement policies to ensure drivers are physically fit and able to operate vehicles safely. This may include regular health checks and ensuring drivers take adequate rest. : Implement policies to ensure drivers are physically fit and able to operate vehicles safely. This may include regular health checks and ensuring drivers take adequate rest. Workplace Safety : Ensure that office and maintenance areas meet health and safety regulations. Implement safety measures for vehicles, including regular inspections and preventive maintenance. : Ensure that office and maintenance areas meet health and safety regulations. Implement safety measures for vehicles, including regular inspections and preventive maintenance. Well-being Programs: Offer programs or resources that promote the mental and physical well-being of employees, particularly for drivers who may experience stress or long hours. 7. Performance Management Setting Expectations : Clearly define performance expectations for drivers, customer service representatives, and other staff members. : Clearly define performance expectations for drivers, customer service representatives, and other staff members. Evaluations and Feedback : Conduct regular performance reviews to assess individual performance, provide constructive feedback, and set goals for improvement. : Conduct regular performance reviews to assess individual performance, provide constructive feedback, and set goals for improvement. Disciplinary Actions: Implement a fair and transparent process for addressing performance or behavior issues, including disciplinary measures when necessary. 8. Employee Retention Career Development : Offer opportunities for career growth and development, such as promotions, skill-based training, or cross-training in other areas (e.g., office or dispatch roles). : Offer opportunities for career growth and development, such as promotions, skill-based training, or cross-training in other areas (e.g., office or dispatch roles). Employee Recognition : Develop programs to recognize and reward employees for their hard work, reliability, or outstanding customer service. : Develop programs to recognize and reward employees for their hard work, reliability, or outstanding customer service. Exit Interviews: Conduct exit interviews with employees who leave to gather feedback on areas for improvement within the company and prevent unnecessary turnover. 9. Diversity and Inclusion Equal Opportunity : Ensure that hiring, promotions, and other HR practices are fair and equitable, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. : Ensure that hiring, promotions, and other HR practices are fair and equitable, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Cultural Sensitivity: Given the potential for a diverse clientele, train employees on cultural awareness and sensitivity, especially in customer-facing roles like drivers and protocol officers. 10. Protocol and Customer Service Protocol Officers : For high-end services (such as VIP transfers or corporate events), hire and train protocol officers who ensure that services meet the standards expected by high-profile clients. These employees should be trained in etiquette, confidentiality, and handling VIP requests. : For high-end services (such as VIP transfers or corporate events), hire and train protocol officers who ensure that services meet the standards expected by high-profile clients. These employees should be trained in etiquette, confidentiality, and handling VIP requests. Customer Complaints and Feedback: Develop a process for handling customer complaints or feedback, ensuring a prompt and professional resolution. 11. Fleet Management Support Fleet Coordination : Work with the fleet manager to ensure the vehicles are well-maintained, insured, and compliant with safety regulations. HR may assist in managing vehicle assignments and ensuring drivers are trained on new models or technologies. : Work with the fleet manager to ensure the vehicles are well-maintained, insured, and compliant with safety regulations. HR may assist in managing vehicle assignments and ensuring drivers are trained on new models or technologies. Maintenance Scheduling: Ensure that drivers and maintenance teams follow regular vehicle inspection schedules and address issues promptly to minimize downtime. 12. Technology and Systems HR Systems : Use HR management systems to track employee hours, payroll, training certifications, and performance metrics. : Use HR management systems to track employee hours, payroll, training certifications, and performance metrics. Booking and Dispatch Systems: Ensure drivers and dispatchers are trained on the booking system and GPS technologies used for route planning and customer management. 13. Employee Scheduling and Flexibility Shift Scheduling : For 24/7 operations, HR needs to manage driver shifts and ensure that work hours comply with legal limits, while also providing sufficient rest for drivers. : For 24/7 operations, HR needs to manage driver shifts and ensure that work hours comply with legal limits, while also providing sufficient rest for drivers. Flexible Work Hours: Implement flexible work hours for drivers and staff where possible, allowing for a work-life balance, especially in a 24/7 service industry like taxis and transfers. 14. Legal and Ethical Responsibilities Licensing and Insurance : Ensure that drivers maintain the required licenses and insurance coverage (commercial vehicle insurance, liability insurance) to operate legally. : Ensure that drivers maintain the required licenses and insurance coverage (commercial vehicle insurance, liability insurance) to operate legally. Confidentiality: Ensure that employees, especially in protocol roles, handle client information confidentially and in compliance with privacy laws. HR in a car rental, transfer, taxi, and protocol business ensures the effective management of employees, maintains a safe and compliant work environment, and supports operational success. By focusing on recruitment, training, performance, and employee well-being, HR helps to deliver high-quality services and maintain customer satisfaction. Bien sur ! Voici les principales responsabilites des ressources humaines (RH) dans une entreprise de location de voitures, de transferts, de taxis et de protocoles, traduites en francais : 1. Recrutement et gestion du personnel Annonces de recrutement et embauche : Publier des offres pour divers postes tels que conducteurs (pour location, taxis, transferts), agents de service client, repartiteurs, gestionnaires de flotte, personnel de maintenance et agents de protocole. : Publier des offres pour divers postes tels que conducteurs (pour location, taxis, transferts), agents de service client, repartiteurs, gestionnaires de flotte, personnel de maintenance et agents de protocole. Selection et verification des candidatures : Effectuer des verifications de fond, valider les permis de conduire (par exemple, pour les conducteurs), et s'assurer que les candidats respectent les exigences legales et les normes de service de l'entreprise. : Effectuer des verifications de fond, valider les permis de conduire (par exemple, pour les conducteurs), et s'assurer que les candidats respectent les exigences legales et les normes de service de l'entreprise. Integration des nouveaux employes : Fournir une introduction complete aux politiques de l'entreprise, aux protocoles de securite et aux attentes professionnelles. 2. Formation et developpement des conducteurs Formation a la securite et a la conformite : Former les conducteurs aux bonnes pratiques de conduite, aux lois de la circulation et aux politiques de l'entreprise. Cela est essentiel pour assurer la securite des clients et maintenir la reputation de l'entreprise. : Former les conducteurs aux bonnes pratiques de conduite, aux lois de la circulation et aux politiques de l'entreprise. Cela est essentiel pour assurer la securite des clients et maintenir la reputation de l'entreprise. Formation au service client : Apprendre aux conducteurs et aux employes en contact direct avec les clients a communiquer efficacement, a offrir un service de qualite et a gerer les situations difficiles. : Apprendre aux conducteurs et aux employes en contact direct avec les clients a communiquer efficacement, a offrir un service de qualite et a gerer les situations difficiles. Formation a la gestion des trajets et de la navigation : Former les conducteurs sur les meilleurs itineraires, la gestion du temps et comment gerer differents types de situations de circulation. 3. Relations avec les employes et communication Resolution des conflits : Gerer rapidement les conflits entre conducteurs, employes de bureau ou clients pour maintenir une ambiance de travail harmonieuse. : Gerer rapidement les conflits entre conducteurs, employes de bureau ou clients pour maintenir une ambiance de travail harmonieuse. Engagement des employes : Promouvoir l'esprit d'equipe et l'engagement des employes a travers des reunions regulieres, des seances de feedback et des evenements d'entreprise. : Promouvoir l'esprit d'equipe et l'engagement des employes a travers des reunions regulieres, des seances de feedback et des evenements d'entreprise. Canaux de communication ouverts : Maintenir des lignes de communication claires et transparentes entre la direction et les employes, en veillant a ce que les preoccupations des employes soient entendues et resolues en temps opportun. 4. Remuneration, avantages et incitations Structure salariale et remuneration : Elaborer une grille salariale competitive pour les conducteurs, le personnel administratif et les autres employes, comprenant des salaires de base, des commissions ou des primes basees sur la performance (par exemple, pour les conducteurs, selon la satisfaction client ou le nombre de reservations effectuees). : Elaborer une grille salariale competitive pour les conducteurs, le personnel administratif et les autres employes, comprenant des salaires de base, des commissions ou des primes basees sur la performance (par exemple, pour les conducteurs, selon la satisfaction client ou le nombre de reservations effectuees). Avantages sociaux : Gerer les avantages comme lassurance sante, les conges payes et les plans de retraite, notamment pour les employes a plein temps. : Gerer les avantages comme lassurance sante, les conges payes et les plans de retraite, notamment pour les employes a plein temps. Programmes dincitation : Mettre en place des programmes de recompense pour motiver les conducteurs, comme des primes pour un service client exceptionnel, une ponctualite ou un dossier de securite exemplaire. 5. Gestion de la paie et conformite legale Gestion de la paie : Assurer que les employes, en particulier les conducteurs, soient payes correctement et a temps. Cela peut inclure une remuneration basee sur le kilometrage ou un salaire horaire. : Assurer que les employes, en particulier les conducteurs, soient payes correctement et a temps. Cela peut inclure une remuneration basee sur le kilometrage ou un salaire horaire. Conformite legale : Veiller a ce que l'entreprise respecte toutes les lois locales, regionales et nationales du travail, y compris celles concernant les permis de conduire, les heures de travail, le salaire minimum et les avantages. : Veiller a ce que l'entreprise respecte toutes les lois locales, regionales et nationales du travail, y compris celles concernant les permis de conduire, les heures de travail, le salaire minimum et les avantages. Gestion des dossiers : Tenir des dossiers precis pour chaque employe, y compris les contrats de travail, les evaluations de performance et les releves de presence. 6. Sante, securite et bien-etre Sante et securite des conducteurs : Mettre en place des politiques pour s'assurer que les conducteurs sont physiquement aptes a conduire en toute securite. Cela peut inclure des controles de sante reguliers et la garantie que les conducteurs prennent des periodes de repos adequates. : Mettre en place des politiques pour s'assurer que les conducteurs sont physiquement aptes a conduire en toute securite. Cela peut inclure des controles de sante reguliers et la garantie que les conducteurs prennent des periodes de repos adequates. Securite au travail : Veiller a ce que les bureaux et les zones de maintenance respectent les reglementations sanitaires et de securite. Mettre en uvre des mesures de securite pour les vehicules, comme des inspections regulieres et de la maintenance preventive. : Veiller a ce que les bureaux et les zones de maintenance respectent les reglementations sanitaires et de securite. Mettre en uvre des mesures de securite pour les vehicules, comme des inspections regulieres et de la maintenance preventive. Programmes de bien-etre : Offrir des programmes ou des ressources pour promouvoir le bien-etre mental et physique des employes, en particulier des conducteurs qui peuvent eprouver du stress ou faire de longues journees de travail. 7. Gestion de la performance Fixation des attentes : Definir clairement les attentes de performance pour les conducteurs, le personnel administratif et les autres employes. : Definir clairement les attentes de performance pour les conducteurs, le personnel administratif et les autres employes. Evaluations de performance et feedback : Realiser des evaluations regulieres pour evaluer la performance individuelle, fournir des retours constructifs et etablir des objectifs d'amelioration. : Realiser des evaluations regulieres pour evaluer la performance individuelle, fournir des retours constructifs et etablir des objectifs d'amelioration. Mesures disciplinaires : Mettre en place un processus equitable et transparent pour gerer les problemes de performance ou de comportement, avec des mesures disciplinaires lorsque necessaire. 8. Retention des employes Developpement de carriere : Offrir des opportunites de croissance professionnelle, comme des promotions, des formations basees sur les competences ou des opportunites de reconversion (par exemple, passer de conducteur a repartiteur ou a gestionnaire de flotte). : Offrir des opportunites de croissance professionnelle, comme des promotions, des formations basees sur les competences ou des opportunites de reconversion (par exemple, passer de conducteur a repartiteur ou a gestionnaire de flotte). Reconnaissance des employes : Developper des programmes pour reconnaitre et recompenser les employes pour leur travail acharne, leur fiabilite ou leur service client exceptionnel. : Developper des programmes pour reconnaitre et recompenser les employes pour leur travail acharne, leur fiabilite ou leur service client exceptionnel. Entretiens de sortie : Organiser des entretiens de sortie avec les employes qui quittent l'entreprise pour recueillir des retours sur les domaines a ameliorer et reduire le taux de rotation. 9. Diversite et inclusion Egalite des chances : Veiller a ce que le recrutement, les promotions et autres pratiques RH soient equitables, en promouvant la diversite et l'inclusion dans l'entreprise. : Veiller a ce que le recrutement, les promotions et autres pratiques RH soient equitables, en promouvant la diversite et l'inclusion dans l'entreprise. Sensibilite culturelle : Compte tenu de la diversite des clients et des employes, former le personnel aux competences interculturelles et a la gestion de la diversite, en particulier pour les postes en contact avec la clientele. 10. Protocole et service client Agents de protocole : Pour les services haut de gamme (par exemple, les transferts VIP ou les evenements d'entreprise), recruter et former des agents de protocole qui s'assurent que les services respectent les normes attendues par les clients de haut niveau. Ces employes doivent etre formes a l'etiquette, a la confidentialite et a la gestion des demandes VIP. : Pour les services haut de gamme (par exemple, les transferts VIP ou les evenements d'entreprise), recruter et former des agents de protocole qui s'assurent que les services respectent les normes attendues par les clients de haut niveau. Ces employes doivent etre formes a l'etiquette, a la confidentialite et a la gestion des demandes VIP. Gestion des plaintes et retours clients : Mettre en place un processus pour gerer les plaintes ou retours des clients, en veillant a ce que chaque probleme soit resolu de maniere professionnelle et rapide. 11. Gestion de la flotte Coordination de la flotte : Travailler avec le gestionnaire de flotte pour garantir que les vehicules sont bien entretenus, assures et conformes aux normes de securite. Les RH peuvent aider a gerer l'attribution des vehicules et veiller a ce que les conducteurs soient formes a lutilisation de nouveaux modeles ou technologies. : Travailler avec le gestionnaire de flotte pour garantir que les vehicules sont bien entretenus, assures et conformes aux normes de securite. Les RH peuvent aider a gerer l'attribution des vehicules et veiller a ce que les conducteurs soient formes a lutilisation de nouveaux modeles ou technologies. Planification de la maintenance : Veiller a ce que les conducteurs et les equipes de maintenance suivent les programmes reguliers d'inspection des vehicules et qu'ils resolvent rapidement tout probleme pour minimiser les temps d'arret. 12. Technologie et systemes Systemes de gestion RH : Utiliser des logiciels de gestion des ressources humaines pour suivre les heures des employes, la paie, les certifications de formation et les evaluations de performance. : Utiliser des logiciels de gestion des ressources humaines pour suivre les heures des employes, la paie, les certifications de formation et les evaluations de performance. Systemes de reservation et de repartition : Assurer la formation des conducteurs et des repartiteurs sur les systemes de reservation et de gestion des trajets utilises par l'entreprise pour ameliorer l'efficacite operationnelle. 13. Gestion des horaires et flexibilite Gestion des plannings : Pour des operations 24/7, les RH doivent gerer les horaires des conducteurs et s'assurer que les heures de travail respectent les limites legales, tout en permettant un temps de repos suffisant pour les conducteurs. : Pour des operations 24/7, les RH doivent gerer les horaires des conducteurs et s'assurer que les heures de travail respectent les limites legales, tout en permettant un temps de repos suffisant pour les conducteurs. Horaires flexibles : Offrir, lorsque cela est possible, des horaires de travail flexibles pour les conducteurs et le personnel, afin dameliorer lequilibre entre vie professionnelle et vie privee, particulierement dans un secteur de service 24/7 comme les taxis et les transferts. 14. Responsabilites legales et ethiques Permis et assurances : Veiller a ce que les conducteurs detiennent les permis necessaires et que les vehicules soient correctement assures (assurance pour les vehicules commerciaux, assurance responsabilite civile). : Veiller a ce que les conducteurs detiennent les permis necessaires et que les vehicules soient correctement assures (assurance pour les vehicules commerciaux, assurance responsabilite civile). Confidentialite : Garantir que les employes, en particulier ceux travaillant en protocole, traitent les informations des clients de maniere confidentielle et conformement aux lois sur la confidentialite. Les RH dans une entreprise de location de voitures, de transferts, de taxis et de protocoles jouent un role cle en assurant la gestion efficace du personnel, la conformite legale et la satisfaction client. En se concentrant sur le recrutement, la formation, la performance et le bien-etre des employes, les RH contribuent a fournir des services de haute qualite tout en maintenant un environnement de travail productif et motivant. Autistic college students are experiencing higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to their non-autistic peers. Trusted Source Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Autistic and Non-autistic College Students: A Brief Report Go to source Trusted Source Did You Know? Autistic college students face anxiety and depression at rates far higher than their peers. #autism #mentalhealth #medindia Autistic college students face anxiety and depression at rates far higher than their peers. #autism #mentalhealth #medindia Advertisement Addressing an Underrepresented Student Population Advertisement Increased Representation Enables Deeper Analysis Advertisement Call for Holistic Mental Health Support Growing College Enrollment Highlights Institutional Responsibility Future Focus on Campus-Based Contributing Factors Intersection of Identity, Academics, and Mental Health Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression in Autistic and Non-autistic College Students: A Brief Report - (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10803-025-06876-y) Autistic students in college report significantly, a striking finding revealed through new data ().This mental health disparity was uncovered in a comprehensive analysis involving, using data from the National Survey of Student Engagement.Autistic students experienced notablythan their non-autistic peers, who reported rates of 9.4% for anxiety and 7.6% for depression. Among both autistic and non-autistic groups,than their male counterparts.Psychologists at Binghamton University, State University of New York, led the examination, focusing on survey responses where students could indicate autism diagnoses as well as report experiences with anxiety and depression. By analyzing these overlapping responses, researchers highlighted theDiego Aragon-Guevara, a Ph.D. student in psychology and lead author, emphasized that. His work aims to improve quality of life for autistic adults, with this study serving as a crucial step toward that goal."We wanted to sort of fill that gap in the research and find out how they are doing," Aragon-Guevara stated. He highlighted that college is a critical period for mental health, and autistic students face unique challenges during this transition.The year 2021 marked a significant milestone as it was the first time students could officially identify as autistic in the national survey. This addition allowed researchers, including co-author Jennifer Gillis Mattson, toMattson, a psychology professor and co-director of the Institute for Child Development at Binghamton University, described this as a major opportunity to explore uncharted areas of student well-being. We were really excited to see what the data would tell us, she said.The findings point to a pressing. Aragon-Guevara emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive college environment where autistic individuals feel supported and comfortable.One challenge highlighted by the team is the tendency of support personnel to focus solely on autism, potentially overlooking co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression. Mattson stressed that mental health must be viewed in its full complexity for autistic students to truly thrive.Gillis-Mattson talked about the ethical obligation of higher education institutions to support the increasing number of autistic students. We really do have an obligation to support these students, she noted, advocating for a broader understanding that goes beyond autism alone.She pointed out thatin building effective support systems. This approach will help colleges better serve their autistic populations in the long run.Aragon-Guevara views the current work as a foundation, confirming the presence of serious mental health concerns among autistic college students. The next phase of research will dive into the specific factors behind these challenges, such asThere are so many elements that go into being comfortable in the new environment that is college, he said. Understanding these components will help shape institutional strategies aimed at improving life quality for autistic students.The broader initiative at Binghamton University seeks to understand autistic students more holistically. Assistant Professor Hyejung Kim from the Department of Teaching, Learning and Educational Leadership noted that theres still much to uncover about this group.Kim highlighted trends such as a higher male representation among autistic students, their frequent pursuit of science and technology majors, and their varied experiences with faculty and campus culture. These contextual elements could significantly influence mental well-being and are a priority for further investigation.Source-Eurekalert Seven people were killed and nine others were injured as a result of the Russian occupation army's shelling of settlements in the Kherson region, including three police officers, and over 100 residential buildings were damaged, the press service of the National Police of Ukraine has said. "In the morning, the Russian army launched a massive shelling of the village of Chornobaivka near Kherson with multiple rocket launchers, also hitting Stepanivka. A 61-year-old woman died as a result of a direct hit by a shell in a house, her body was pulled from under the rubble. Five more people were injured. A 78-year-old man and women aged 39 to 80 received mine-explosive and craniocerebral injuries, contusions," the National Police said in a Telegram message. According to law enforcement officials, the Russian army launched a multiple rocket launcher attack on Komyshany. "A 65-year-old man was killed and a 64-year-old woman was injured. The victim was hospitalized with a mine-explosive injury, gunshot wounds and an open fracture of the leg. Rescuers took the woman out, who later died in the ambulance, and the man's body was taken away by police," the police said. However, during the evacuation of the body of the deceased, the occupiers struck a police armored vehicle with a UAV. "When law enforcement officers placed the deceased in an armored vehicle, a Russian drone hit a law enforcement vehicle. As a result, three police officers received mine-explosive and closed head injuries, concussions. Two of them had shrapnel wounds," the press service emphasized. Inflammatory proteins that connect frailty, social deprivation, and cardiovascular risk offer new avenues for medical and policy interventions. Highlights: Study links 10 inflammatory proteins to both frailty and living in deprived areas in women CDCP1 protein is strongly associated with future heart disease events Findings support combined medical and policy interventions to reduce CVD risk Trusted Source Chronic Inflammation Identified as Link Between Frailty, Social Disadvantage, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Women Go to source Trusted Source Frailty (reduced physical resilience with age) Social deprivation (measured at the area level) Cardiovascular disease risk Did You Know? Inflammation may be the missing biological link between social inequality, ageing, and heart disease in women. #hearthealth #womenshealth #inflammation #frailty #socialdeterminants #cardiovasculardisease #medindia Inflammation may be the missing biological link between social inequality, ageing, and heart disease in women. #hearthealth #womenshealth #inflammation #frailty #socialdeterminants #cardiovasculardisease #medindia Advertisement CDCP1: A Potential Red Flag for Future Heart Events Advertisement Frailty, Disadvantage, and Disease: A Shared Pathway Advertisement Why This Matters Implications for Prevention Medical Interventions Anti-inflammatory treatments or lifestyle changes targeting harmful inflammation. Policy Measures Tackling the root causes of social deprivation to reduce long-term health risks. Chronic Inflammation Identified as Link Between Frailty, Social Disadvantage, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Women - (https://www.geneonline.com/chronic-inflammation-identified-as-link-between-frailty-social-disadvantage-and-cardiovascular-disease-risk-in-women/) A new study published inhas revealed that chronic inflammation may be the biological link connecting frailty, social disadvantage, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women ().The research highlights that tackling this link may require a combining medical strategies that reduce harmful inflammation with policies that address health inequalities.Researchers from Kings College London examined 74 inflammation-related proteins in blood samples from over 2,000 women aged 37 to 84. Researchers explored how these proteins were connected to three factors:They foundlinked to both frailty and living in deprived areas. Among these, TNFSF14, HGF, CDCP1, and CCL11 stood out for their connection toOne protein,, was significantly associated with future heart disease events, such as narrowed or blocked arteries. The findings were validated in an independent group of women, strengthening the evidence.Researchers suggest that these inflammatory proteins may act as a biological bridge between social inequality, ageing, and heart disease.said Dr. Yu Lin, Research Associate at Kings College London.Dr. Cristina Menni, Senior Lecturer in Molecular Epidemiology, added that socioeconomic hardship may trigger harmful inflammation, damaging health over time.The results suggest that chronic inflammation could act as a biological bridge between social inequality, ageing, and heart disease.If confirmed in future studies, these proteins could serve as biomarkers to help clinicians identify women at greater risk and intervene earlier.The researchers propose a two-pronged approach:This combination could help protect vulnerable groups, especially ageing women, from the compounded effects of frailty, inequality, and heart disease.Source-Medindia Walking more steps daily, even under 10,000, and at a brisk pace can lower serious heart risks in people with high blood pressure. Highlights: Every 1,000 additional daily steps lower cardiovascular risk by 17 percent Walking faster cuts risk of major heart issues by up to 30 percent cuts risk of major heart issues by up to 30 percent Benefits are seen even with step counts below the common 10,000 target Did You Know? Just 1,000 more daily steps can drop your heart failure risk by 22 percent and stroke risk by 24 percent-even if you never hit the 10,000 mark. #hearthealth #walkingbenefits #medindia Just 1,000 more daily steps can drop your heart failure risk by 22 percent and stroke risk by 24 percent-even if you never hit the 10,000 mark. #hearthealth #walkingbenefits #medindia Advertisement Heart Disease Risk in High Blood Pressure Population Advertisement Benefits Below the 10,000 Step Threshold 22% reduction in heart failure risk 9% reduction in heart attack risk 24% reduction in stroke risk Advertisement Intensity of Walking Matters Public Health Implications and Recommendations Limitations and Considerations More daily steps, even below the standard 10,000-step recommendation, andin individuals with high blood pressure Published in the, the analysis showed that for each additional 1,000 steps per day beyond 2,300, there was a, such as heart attack or stroke , up to 10,000 steps. Walking beyond 10,000 steps further decreased stroke risk.Globally, an estimated 1.28 billion people live with high blood pressure, which increases the likelihood of developing heart disease by 49%, stroke by 62%, and heart failure by 77% to 89%. It had remained unclear how much physical activity could help reduce these risks for those affected.Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis from the University of Sydney led the analysis and emphasized the. He stated that individuals with high blood pressure saw substantial reductions in serious heart issues the more steps they took and the faster they walked.Even walking amounts below the commonly recommended 10,000 steps provided clear health benefits. The study analyzed data from 32,192 participants in a UK Biobank sub-study, all diagnosed with high blood pressure and tracked via wrist-worn accelerometers over seven days between 2013 and 2015. The average participant was 64 years old, and the group was followed for nearly eight years, generating 283,001 person-years of data and recording 1,935 heart or stroke events.The findings showed that each 1,000 daily step increase led to:This translated to 31.5 fewer major cardiovascular events, 7.2 fewer heart failures, 9.9 fewer heart attacks, and 10.4 fewer strokes per 10,000 person-years.An average walking intensity of 80 steps per minute for the 30 fastest minutes each day correlated with a 30% lower risk of major cardiovascular events. Even higher intensities, over 130 steps per minute, showed no signs of causing harm.When researchers analyzed data from 37,350 participants without high blood pressure, they found similar trends. Each 1,000-step increase was linked to, 23.2% in heart failure, 17.9% in heart attack, and 24.6% in stroke.Professor Stamatakis explained that these insights offer patients. He emphasized that healthcare professionals should prioritize promoting physical activity in patients with high blood pressure and consider emphasizing walking pace as well as step count in future recommendations.Key strengths of the analysis include its large sample size, use of accelerometer data to accurately capture step counts and pace, and access to national health records across England, Wales, and Scotland.However, the study had limitations. Physical activity was measured only at the studys start, so changes in behavior over time werent captured. Additionally, while the results show strong associations between walking and improved cardiovascular outcomes, they do not establish direct causation. The study population may also not reflect the general UK population, as UK Biobank participants tend to be healthier and more educated than average.To sum up, walking more steps each day and increasing your pace even without hitting 10,000 steps can lower your risk of heart problems, stroke, and heart failure, especially if you have high blood pressure. These findings show that physical activity, even in small doses, should be a key part of everyday health management.Source-Medindia Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/ Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London. "Yesterday, together with all partners, today in a bilateral format, we discussed expectations from the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects. We also discussed in quite detail security guarantees that can make peace truly sustainable if the United States still manages to pressure Russia to stop the killings and engage in real meaningful diplomacy. It is important that we can all work together within a coalition of those willing to achieve effective formats for security work," Zelenskyy said on Telegram on Thursday. In addition, the leaders discussed the continuation of programs to support the Ukrainian army and defense production. Zelenskyy stressed that under any scenario of the development of the situation, Ukraine will remain strong. He also invited Great Britain to join the PURL program (Priority Needs List of Ukraine). "Of course, we also discussed our centennial agreement. Already in August, Ukraine is preparing to ratify it, and as a result, we will be able to hold an expanded Ukraine-Britain meeting," Zelenskyy said. The Head of State of Ukraine and Starmer discussed investments in Ukrainian drone production. "We have significant potential to increase production volumes and need urgent funding for this. Drones play a crucial role on the front line. Ukraine's capabilities to produce them are extraordinary. Therefore, investments in such production can really affect the situation at a strategic level. We are working with Britain and all partners on this," the president said. Skills England omits logistics sector, threatening Industrial Strategy goals The logistics sector has been overlooked in Skills Englands latest Assessment of Priority Skills to 2030, a move that Logistics UK says could undermine the governments ambitions for economic growth. Michelle Gardner, Deputy Head of Policy at Logistics UK, expressed disappointment at the omission: Skilled logistics careers underpin the growth-driving sectors identified in the governments Industrial Strategy and Skills Englands assessment. "For Skills England to overlook the role of logistics skills and occupations in the economy is highly disappointing. She added that the government itself recognises logistics as a vital contributor to the UK economy and the competitiveness of its growth sectors. The governments industrial strategy recognises that logistics makes a vital contribution to the UK economy and the competitiveness of its growth-driving sectors but, despite this, Skills England have failed to take our sector into account. "We warned the government that not recognising logistics as foundational formally created a real danger of its value being overlooked in further policy, and this has now happened with skills assessment, which will seriously hamper the UKs growth mission. Gardner confirmed that Logistics UK will continue to engage with Skills England as the assessment process evolves. We will continue to work with Skills England as it develops and refines its process for assessing skills and will be calling for the DfE to ensure the needs of the logistics sector and career opportunities it provides are represented in its upcoming Post-16 Education and Skills Strategy. Two survivors of veterans who died from military-related illnesses are challenging the Department of Veterans Affairs' practice of dropping family caregiver application appeals once a veteran passes away. The daughter of an Army Vietnam veteran who cared for her father in his final years and the wife of a separate Vietnam-era veteran filed a potential class-action suit Monday in federal court arguing that their cases should still be considered by the Board of Veterans Appeals even though their veterans had died. Both had received denials for entry to the VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, and both had appealed their cases. The board issued automatic denials when the veterans died. Read Next: Watchdog Finds 50% Increase in VA Medical Center Jobs with 'Severe' Shortages "When a veteran dies, the VA should provide extra support to the caregiver suffering that loss. Instead, it is arbitrarily denying appeals from caregivers and refusing to pay them the benefits they have earned," said Renee Burbank, director of litigation for the National Veterans Legal Services Program, in a statement Tuesday. VA officials declined to comment, saying they do not weigh in on pending litigation. In both cases, the board decided that, because the program requires that the veteran be admitted to the program for the caregiver to receive benefits, it did not need to consider appeals of cases belonging to deceased veterans. Attorneys for the plaintiffs believe that the board should not automatically drop cases and give caregivers the chance to appeal the board's decisions to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims so that they can receive compensation for the period of time they served as caregivers, helping to offset what can be substantial residual bills for an injured veteran. "We're not 100% sure about whether this is a procedure or policy of the board, or [whether] a whole bunch of board members are all coming to the same conclusion [that they don't have to consider these cases]. Whatever it is, we think the court needs to step in and correct it," Burbank said during an interview Thursday with Military.com. The two plaintiffs believe that, if they win their cases, they should receive benefits from the time they filed their application for the program and their veterans' deaths. Sharon Presley and her father applied for caregiver benefits based on the veteran's need for around-the-clock care for liver cancer. They were denied entry to the program but provided a letter to the Board of Veterans Appeals from the father's doctor saying he needed "almost complete and total care" in his final years. He died while the appeal was pending, and Presley was denied further consideration. The board also denied Shyrl Bolton-Pellerin, whose husband also needed significant assistance. The VA reviewed the case and said the Pellerins should have been admitted to the program, but the final acceptance had not yet been processed when the veteran died. The board also denied their claim. Burbank estimates that dozens of caregivers may be affected by the practice each month. The plaintiffs are represented by NVLSP and Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick. A federal judge must determine whether their cases will continue as a class action. The VA's family caregiver program provides training, counseling, health care and a monthly stipend of between $1,800 to $2,800 a month for an individual who assists severely ill or injured veterans with their daily needs, such as dressing, bathing, eating and cleaning. Roughly 15,000 veterans are in the program, according to the VA. Related: VA Extends Deadline for Changes to Caregiver Program, Giving Longtime Recipients a Reprieve TOKYO Friday is the 80th anniversary of then-Emperor Hirohito's announcement of Japan's World War II surrender, but as living witnesses die and memories fade, questions remain in Japan about how the war should be taught to younger generations. A national ceremony will begin at Tokyos Budokan hall at noon, the same time then-Emperor Hirohitos 4-minute prerecorded speech began on Aug. 15, 1945, on national radio. Hirohitos responsibility for the war remains controversial today, and Japan has struggled to come to terms with its wartime past, both at home and in the Asian countries it brutally invaded. In 1995, then-Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama apologized over Japans aggression in Asia. It was welcomed abroad but there has since been continual pushback against it by revisionists and those who deny responsibility. Here's a look at the speech and the memories of some of the people who heard the announcement. Japans military saw violence, suicides and chaos right up until the official surrender Even after the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, there was dispute within the military government over if or how the war should be ended. The day before the announcement, Hirohito, dressed in a formal military uniform, met with top government officials in a bunker at the Imperial Palace to approve Japans surrender. Staff members for NHK, the national broadcaster, were secretly called in, and Hirohito recorded the speech twice, finishing late that night. Palace officials hid the recordings to protect them from sabotage attempts by a group of army officers, who at one point seized the broadcast facility. Despite the chaos, palace officials safely delivered the recordings to NHK for radio transmission at noon on Aug. 15, 1945. Up until the moment of the surrender announcement, there were suicides, coup attempts and fighting among army officers. The action-filled drama of the days before Hirohitos radio address was made into a film, Japans Longest Day, as well as a graphic novel. Hirohitos voice, which most Japanese were hearing for the first time because he was considered a living god, was not easy to understand because of poor sound quality and the arcane language he used. The message was clear, though: Japan had lost the war. Fumiko Doi heard the emperors address at home in Nagasaki just 6 days after surviving the atomic bombing She remembers that her neighbors gathered at her home to listen to a radio placed on top of a cabinet. She did not understand what exactly was said, but later learned it was the announcement of Japans surrender. It was not a surprise, because she had heard her mother say that Japan would lose. I only wish the emperor had issued an order to end the war sooner, Doi says. The Nagasaki bombing and an attack on Hiroshima three days earlier together killed more than 210,000 people and left many survivors with radiation-induced illnesses. On Aug. 9, 1945, at 11:02 a.m., Doi was on a train 5 kilometers (3 miles) away from the location a U.S. B-29 dropped the atomic bomb. Her mother and two of her three brothers died of cancer, and two sisters have struggled with their health. Relief and tears as the emperor's speech reached a hospital filled with wounded Reiko Muto, who survived the massive Tokyo firebombing just five months earlier as a 17-year-old nursing student, was at her hospital on Aug. 15. Everyone gathered in an auditorium for an important broadcast. People cried when the emperors muffled voice came on the radio. The first thing that came to my mind was that now I could leave the lights on at night, Muto said. I was so relieved that the war was over. The March 10, 1945, U.S. firebombing of Tokyo killed more than 100,000 people. Truckloads of people with serious burns cried in pain and begged for water, but because of a shortage of medical supplies, the best she could do was to comfort them. But the end of the war didnt immediately end the hardship. Her hospital and nursing school were occupied by the allied powers, though she managed to graduate two years later and pursued a career in pediatric nursing. What we went through should never be repeated, she says. For Tamiko Sora, a Hiroshima survivor, the surrender speech is a bittersweet memory Sora, her two sisters and their parents barely survived the atomic bombing on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, when the blast destroyed her home just 1.4 kilometers (0.9 mile) from the hypocenter, and Soras face was burned. Her grandmother suffered severe burns, and her uncle and aunt were never found. While taking shelter at a relatives home, her parents listened to the radio broadcast, but sound quality was particularly bad in Hiroshima because the atomic bombing destroyed key infrastructure. Her grandmother, who died later that day, sounded disappointed about the announcement, Sora said. Her grandmother's generation venerated the emperor, and his acknowledgment of Japans defeat must have discouraged her far more than the rest of the family imagined, Sora said. Despite the sadness of her grandmothers death, the surrender speech gave Sora peace of mind. War brings horror and intimidation even to little children, she said. The emperor and prime minister speak on Aug. 15 Hirohitos son and grandson have repeatedly expressed deep remorse over the war, but prime ministers since 2013 have not apologized to Asian victims of Japans aggression amid a government lean toward revisionism. Hirohitos grandson, current Emperor Naruhito, has repeatedly stressed the importance of telling the war's tragic history to younger generations. He has traveled to Iwo Jima, Okinawa and Hiroshima, and is expected to visit Nagasaki with his daughter, Princess Aiko, in September. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who has signaled a more neutral view of Japans wartime history, has said he is determined to keep passing on the tragedy of the war. But his leadership comes as emboldened ultra-conservatives in his party try to force him out over a July election loss. SAN FRANCISCO -- 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 doesn't 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." 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." 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, there's 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. 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 can't act as police. They can only act within their bounds." 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 administration's immigration crackdown. Sherman testified during the second day of the trial that he raised concerns the deployment could violate the Posse Comitatus Act. 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. Six months after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres proposed that the global organization take on some of the funding for the multinational force that's been struggling to tackle violent gangs in Haiti, the Trump administration says it is ready to support the plan. "The United States intends to share a draft U.N. Security Council Resolution with the U.N. Security Council that establishes a U.N. Support Office for a multinational security force in Haiti," a State Department spokesperson confirmed to the Miami Herald. The spokesperson did not say when the resolution will be presented for a vote, but sources said it may come up at a Security Council meeting about children, armed conflict and human rights in Haiti. The discussion is being planned by Panama, which is presiding over the Security Council this month. "U.S. backing for the logistics package will breathe new life into discussions" about the Kenya-led mission in Haiti, said Daniel Forti, a senior U.N. analyst with the International Crisis Group. "But Washington can't presume the other Security Council members will easily go along with them after months of delay. Gangs have increased their control of Port-au-Prince while the U.S. slow-walked its deliberations. American diplomats should prepare for the heavy lift needed to get this effort over the finish line." Washington's long-awaited support for Guterres' proposal comes at a complicated time in the Trump administration's relationship with the U.N. Congress last month approved an administration proposal to take back more than $7 billion in foreign aid spending, which included millions of dollars to U.N. agencies and $361.2 million that was previously approved for international peacekeeping operations. While aid groups and others are trying to determine what actually got cut, U.N. officials had already warned that the effects of cuts by the U.S., which was already in arrears on its assessed U.N. contributions, were already showing up in existing missions as they scrambled to save cash. Meanwhile, the U.S. can expect pushback from China and Russia, which have never passed up a chance in discussions about Haiti on the Security Council to criticize Washington. So far, the pledges in a U.N. Trust Fund for Haiti amount to $112.5 million. It is just enough to pay for salaries, but not enough for equipment or to support the expansion of the multinational security force, which was envisioned to have 2,500 personnel. "There must be concrete commitments from other regional partners and stakeholders -- including robust financial and contributing force commitments," the State Department spokesperson said, commending "the dedication of the courageous members" of the Kenya-led mission MSS and Haitian police. The scourge of gang violence throughout Haiti has a destabilizing effect not just in the country but in the hemisphere, said the spokesperson, adding "The United States continues to support the Haitian government's efforts to defeat the gangs and restore stability in the country and our region." In February, Guterres proposed that instead of deploying traditional peacekeepers to Haiti, the Security Council maintain the current Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission in the country, but establish a support office to provide structural and logistical support. The office, he proposed, would be funded from the U.N.'s peacekeeping budget, which member nations contribute to. For months, however, the proposal has been in limbo as gang violence surges, more neighborhoods fall and the country sets a new record, 1.3 million, for the number of people displaced by the violence. Until now Washington had remained mum as to whether the U.S. intended to push for a deployment of traditional peacekeepers or support Guterres' plan. In the meantime, the Haitian government has turned to a private military firm run by Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater, for help. But the group's presence and use of weaponized drones by an anti-gang task force operating out of the prime minister's office has raised concerns about collateral damage, and the overall strategy for tackling the causes of the gang crisis. Guterres, who isn't a fan of peacekeeping operations and said there is no peace yet to keep in Haiti, has suggested "a dual-track strategy" to enable the Kenya-led force, the Haiti National Police and Haitian authorities "to substantially reduce gang territorial control through peace enforcement." Pushing for a more robust mandate that would allow for the use of force and the capacity to conduct targeted operations against gangs, he has also proposed the creation of the U.N. Support Office to provide logistical and operational support through the U.N.'s peacekeeping budget. Last month, as members of the Security Council met to decide on an extension of the mandate of the U.N. political mission in office, some members expressed frustrations over the lack of clarity on a way forward. They were not alone. Kenyan President William Ruto, in a June letter to the council, spoke about the need for more and better equipment, and more funding and personnel. The first two Kenyan police contingents of 199 and 184 police officers that arrived on June 25, 2024 and a few weeks later in early July, respectively, are due to be rotated out, the Kenyans have said. "While Kenya had trained 1,000 officers for deployment, 261 mission-ready officers remain on standby because the current contract for life support in theatre cannot cater for them," Ruto said. The operations contract for the base in Haiti for the Kenyan force expires on Sept. 30, the day the mission's one-year mandate is up for renewal before the Security Council. Asked about funding for the base, a U.S. Defense Department spokesperson said the Pentagon "provided an extension to the MSS," but declined to discuss details. 2025 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. **Title: Unlock Your Sony A7IIIs Hidden Powers: The Essential Firmware Update Guide** (How To Update Firmware Sony A7iii) Your Sony A7III is a fantastic camera. It takes amazing photos and videos. But did you know it can get even better? Sony releases free updates called firmware. These updates fix problems and add new features. Think of it like giving your camera a brain upgrade. This guide shows you exactly how to update your Sony A7III firmware. Its easier than you think. **1. What Exactly is Sony A7III Firmware?** Firmware is the hidden software inside your camera. It controls everything. This includes the autofocus, the menu system, and how the camera processes images. Your cameras brain runs on this firmware. Unlike apps on your phone, firmware lives deep inside the cameras hardware. Its the essential code making all the parts work together smoothly. The Sony A7III shipped with its original firmware. Sony engineers constantly improve this software. They find ways to make the camera faster, smarter, or more stable. They release these improvements as firmware updates. You download these updates. You install them onto your camera. This process upgrades its internal software. It gives your A7III new abilities or fixes glitches you might never have noticed. Firmware updates are crucial for keeping your camera performing at its absolute best. They are free gifts from Sony to enhance your shooting experience long after you bought the camera. **2. Why Bother Updating Your Sony A7III Firmware?** Ignoring firmware updates means missing out. Sony doesnt release them for no reason. Each update brings real benefits. First, updates often fix bugs. These bugs might cause your camera to freeze occasionally. They might cause strange error messages. Updating fixes these annoyances. It makes your camera more reliable. Second, updates frequently add new features or improve existing ones. An update might make autofocus lock on faster. It might track moving subjects more accurately, especially tricky ones like birds or athletes. An update could add compatibility with newer lenses. It might improve how the camera handles video recording. Sometimes, Sony even adds entirely new functions. Maybe a new focus mode appears. Perhaps the menu layout gets better. Third, updates improve overall stability. Your camera just runs smoother. It responds quicker to button presses. Battery life might even see a small boost in certain situations. Updating firmware ensures you get the absolute most out of your investment. It keeps your A7III competitive and capable. Its like getting a slightly newer, better camera for free. **3. How to Update Your Sony A7III Firmware (Step-by-Step)** Ready to upgrade? Follow these steps carefully. Its simple but requires attention. * **Check Your Current Version:** Turn on your camera. Press the Menu button. Navigate to `Setup` (the toolbox icon). Go to `Setup Option` > `Version`. Your current firmware version displays here (e.g., 4.01). Write this down. * **Find the Latest Update:** Grab your computer. Open a web browser. Go to Sonys official support website. Search for A7III support. Find the Downloads or Firmware Updates section. Locate the latest firmware file for the A7III. Compare its version number to yours. If the website version is higher, download it. * **Prepare Your SD Card:** Insert an SD card into your computer (using a card reader). **Crucial:** Format the SD card *in your camera* first. This ensures its clean and ready. After formatting, copy the downloaded firmware file (it usually ends with .DAT or .UPDATE) directly onto the root directory of the SD card. Dont put it inside any folders. Eject the card safely from your computer. * **Install the Update:** Make sure your A7III battery is **fully charged**. Use a fresh battery if possible. A power failure during update can damage the camera. Turn the camera OFF. Insert the prepared SD card. Turn the camera ON. The camera should automatically detect the update file. A message like Update? appears. Select `OK`. The update process starts. **Do not touch any buttons!** Do not turn off the camera. Do not open the battery door. The screen shows progress. This takes several minutes. The camera will restart itself when done. * **Verify Success:** After restarting, go back to `Menu` > `Setup` > `Setup Option` > `Version`. Check the displayed version. It should now match the latest version you downloaded. Congratulations! Your update is complete. Format the SD card in the camera again to remove the update file. **4. Cool Applications: What Your New Firmware Can Do** After updating, explore the new possibilities. Firmware updates unlock tangible improvements. Heres what you might gain: * **Sharper Focus, Faster:** New firmware often refines autofocus algorithms. Eye Autofocus (for humans and maybe animals) becomes more tenacious. It locks on quicker. It tracks subjects moving erratically more reliably. Focusing in low light might improve. * **Enhanced Video Features:** Updates frequently boost video performance. You might get better color profiles. Rolling shutter (the jello effect) might be reduced. New frame rate options could appear. Audio level controls might get finer adjustment. * **Menu Smarts & Customization:** Sony listens to user feedback. Updates sometimes reorganize menus. They make settings easier to find. New custom button assignments might be available. Functionality for existing buttons might expand. * **Better Stability & Battery:** General operation feels snappier. The camera responds faster. Fewer unexpected freezes or errors occur. Some updates optimize power usage. This can lead to slightly longer battery life per charge. * **New Creative Tools:** Occasionally, Sony adds entirely new features. Examples include improved intervalometer settings, enhanced Pixel Shift Multi Shooting compatibility, or new image processing options. Check the update notes Sony provides to see exactly whats new in your version. **5. Sony A7III Firmware Update FAQs** Lets tackle common questions and worries. * **Will updating erase my photos or settings?** No. Firmware updates do not touch your stored photos, videos, or most custom settings. Your creative work and preferences stay safe. Its still wise to back up your SD card before starting, just as general good practice. * **Can a firmware update break my camera?** The risk is extremely low if you follow the steps correctly. The biggest danger is power loss. **Always use a fully charged battery.** Never interrupt the update process. Dont turn off the camera or remove the battery/SD card mid-update. Sony tests updates thoroughly. * **My camera says No update file. What now?** Double-check your steps. Did you download the *exact* file for the Sony A7III (ILCE-7M3)? Did you put the .DAT or .UPDATE file directly on the root of the SD card (not in a folder)? Did you format the card *in the camera* before copying the file? Try downloading the file again. Try a different SD card. * **How often should I update?** Dont update for every tiny release. Check Sonys website every few months. Read the update notes. See if the fixes or features apply to how you use your camera. If a critical bug fix is released, update sooner. If everything works perfectly, waiting is fine. (How To Update Firmware Sony A7iii) * **Do I need special computer skills?** Absolutely not. The process involves basic computer tasks: downloading a file, copying it to an SD card. The camera handles the actual installation automatically. Anyone comfortable using a computer can do this. Inquiry us if you want to want to know more, please feel free to contact us. ([email protected]) The State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has collected a large-scale evidence base on the "information saboteurs" of the Russian Federal Security Bureau (FSB), who, under the leadership of former Member of Parliament Viktor Medvedchuk, are engaged in media attacks in Ukraine, the SBU reports. "These are 12 members of an organized criminal group called "Second Ukraine," which operates in Moscow under the guise of a public association," the SBU said on Telegram on Thursday. According to the report, the SBU has collected evidence on these individuals from various sources, including the testimony of a "political expert" from Medvedchuk's media pool, Kyrylo Molchanov, who was detained in Poland this spring and is currently under arrest in Kyiv and cooperating with the investigation. As the investigation established, Molchanov worked simultaneously for two special services of the aggressor country: the FSB and the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service. "As part of the criminal proceedings, it was established that one of his "direct contacts" was the first deputy of the fifth service of the FSB of the Russian Federation, Lieutenant General Georgy Grishaev. The corresponding correspondence was found in the suspect's phone," the department emphasizes. The SBU notes that, at the instructions of the occupiers, Molchanov and his "colleagues" were engaged in justifying Russian aggression, discrediting Ukraine in the international arena, and destabilizing the internal situation in the partner countries of our state. "Moreover, Molchanov himself organized street actions in the EU in the interests of the Kremlin, where he called for the curtailment of international support for Ukraine," the SBU specifies. According to the case materials, Viktor Medvedchuk personally led these activities. "In particular, he agreed on the creation of the organization "Second Ukraine" directly with Putin, after which the Kremlin leader instructed the FSB to coordinate this project. Then, Medvedchuk personally formed the "staff" of the pro-Kremlin association, which included top management and propagandists of the former People's Deputy's sanctioned TV channels. Most of them left for the Russian Federation at the beginning of the full-scale war," the report states. On Medvedchuk's instructions, they prepared and distributed anti-Ukrainian content through controlled Telegram channels, YouTube video hosting, and the Kremlin's foreign mouthpiece "Voice of Europe," which, thanks to the cooperation of the SBU and Czech law enforcement agencies, was sanctioned by the EU in 2024. After the release of such messages, they were instantly picked up by Kremlin propagandists for mass distribution on their information resources. It was also established that Medvedchuk personally finances the criminal organization and for this purpose closely cooperates with the administration and government structures of the Russian Federation. Based on the collected evidence, investigators of the Security Service reported in absentia on suspicion of Medvedchuk and his "subordinates" who are hiding in Russia. Among them: Denis Zharkykh, Artem Marchevsky, Roman Kovalenko, Ruslan Kalinchuk, Yakiv Taksyur, Yuriy Dudkin, Ruslan Kotsaba, Natalia Khoroshevska, Bohdan Giganov, Oleg Yasinsky and Oleksandr Lazarev. The crimes of the defendants were qualified under several articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine: Part 3 of Article 109 (public calls for a violent change or overthrow of the constitutional order or for the seizure of state power, as well as the distribution of materials with calls for such actions, committed as part of an organized criminal group); Part 2 of Article 111 (high treason committed under martial law); Part 6 of Article 111-1 (collaborative activity); Part 3 of Article 161 (violation of the equality of citizens depending on their racial, national, regional affiliation, religious beliefs, disability and on other grounds, committed as part of an organized criminal group); Part 3 of Article 436-2 (justification, recognition as lawful, denial of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, glorification of its participants, committed as part of an organized criminal group). "The detained Medvedchuk associate Kyrylo Molchanov was separately notified of additional suspicion on the fact of working for enemy special services (Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, high treason committed under wartime conditions)," the SBU said. DEAR ABBY: My parents divorced when I was in high school, and Dad kept the house I grew up in. Im in college across town and have my own place, but I still visited Dad often. As a teenager, it used to be my job to cook the family dinner two nights a week. I loved it and continued to cook when I was visiting. Dad now has a serious girlfriend who has moved in with him. Shes uncomfortable with a guest being in her kitchen and says its appropriate for me to only be in the living room when I visit. If I want a glass of water, Im supposed to ask her for it. She calls it being a good host, but it feels like a power move to push me out. Dad says its her house and her rules. Im sad that what was my home for 18 years is now off-limits. I get that shes insecure about the relationship and wants to put some distance between me and my dad, but I no longer feel welcome in the house I grew up in because shes so rigid. I have invited them (both) to my place, but they havent accepted. What do I do now? -- PUSHED OUT IN ARKANSAS DEAR PUSHED: Your fathers girlfriend appears to be both controlling and insecure, and your father has made clear that he doesnt want to rock the boat. Under the circumstances, you have no choice but to follow the new house rules. If you can abide by them, visit your dad. If you cant reconcile yourself, then you may have to wait for him to miss your presence in his life before he will consent to be a guest at your place. (What a sad state of affairs. Im sorry.) Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. The Boyne River Dam near Boyne Falls, Mich., Sept. 6, 2024. Boyne Mountain owns the 250-kilowatt dam and is asking the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to approve a new 30- to-50-year hydropower license. Garret Ellison BOYNE FALLS, MI Boyne Mountain violated its hydropower license this spring by failing to adequately disclose to federal regulators that it mismanaged spillway gates at its controversial dam and altered the level of the Boyne River. On July 31, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), issued Boyne USA two violations because the resort company mistakenly cut the Boyne River flow in late March and then waited too long to formally notify the agency. The incident earned a rebuke from federal officials but no fines or additional enforcement action. It appears that your staff are unfamiliar with appropriate operational procedures to maintain run-of-river flows at the project, which resulted in these events, wrote FERC aquatic resources chief Andrea Claros. Further, the failure of your monitoring and alarm system contributed to an extended duration and greater magnitude of the event. Claros acknowledged that Boyne took corrective steps to remedy the issue and wrote that the violations may be considered in future proceedings. Boyne is awaiting a relicensing decision from FERC about its dam, which creates an impoundment the resort plans new lodging around. Boyne told MLive it automated water level monitoring and addressed a procedural gap in its compliance notification in response to the water level changes. It plans to automate controls, pending relicensing. We are pleased that FERC recognized the thoroughness of our response and determined that no enforcement action was warranted given the immediate corrective measures we implemented, said Stacie Harris, Boyne vice president of communications. According to federal filings, Boyne surpassed a 10-day window to notify FERC of the water level deviations caused by improper gate settings between March 25 and 28. The settings prompted low-water level reports downstream, but no observed fish kills. State and federal officials contacted the resort about low-water levels downriver on March 27. The resort sent FERC a formal notice of the water level changes on April 25, but it says it also emailed and called the agency before that. The violation notices come as Boyne is upgrading internal structural components at the dam following a July 2 federal safety inspection, which FERC engineers wrote last month found no dam safety deficiencies requiring immediate action. The 250-kilowatt dam supplies a small percentage of the nearby resorts power usage. It stopped generating power in February while Boyne upgrades the powerhouse, replaces the turbine and re-coats penstocks a type of underground piping that relicensing opponents have worried about potentially being leaky. In March, Friends of the Boyne River (FOBR) cited concerns about leaking penstocks in a letter questioning the dams stability to the state departments of Natural Resources and Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. The group opposes the relicensing, saying the dam is ecologically harmful to the river. Boyne disputes that. Harris characterized the proactively scheduled comprehensive maintenance and modernization upgrades happening this summer as standard practices for hydroelectric facilities of this age and type. The dam is classified as low hazard, meaning a failure would likely not kill anyone or cause severe economic damage. These infrastructure investments, combined with FERCs recent safety confirmation, demonstrate Boynes longstanding commitment to responsible dam operations, she said. Harris did not answer questions about when Boyne discovered the need to recoat penstocks, the severity of any leakage, or how the work comports with federal filings this year accusing FOBR of fear-mongering with unsupported concerns about dam integrity. Dam safety concerns prompted Boyne City and Charlevoix County to seek intervenor status in the relicensing case this year, which FERC denied as untimely. On July 25, Boyne asked FERC to move its pending relicensing process forward expeditiously in a filing made in response to ecological, access and dam safety concerns raised this summer by the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians. The dam has been operating under annual license extensions since Boynes original 1982 license expired in 2022. A new license would be good for 30 to 50 years. Harris did not answer questions about access or ecological concerns raised by the tribe, including its desire for Boyne to rehabilitate the downstream fishery. The tribe and the Michigan Hydro Relicensing Coalition, a collection of state conservation groups, are pushing FERC to require public access to the dams 68-acre impoundment. The resort opposes that and argues in filings that it owns all the land surrounding the impoundment and that public access already exists to the downstream tailwater banks. In June, Republican U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman of northern Michigan waded into the issue with a letter to FERC expressing concern about any relicensing conditions that would mandate expanded public access to private land. Bob Stuber, president of the hydro relicensing coalition, said the public access debate is complicated because the Boyne River was never included on the list of navigable rivers in Michigan although he said it warrants such designation because it was used for commercial log drives in the late 1800s. Regardless, the fact is that its still a public waterway. Stuber called the FERC violations as a slap on the wrist. It was unfortunate, he said. It got addressed. They got spanked. They were told what they need to do, but it also serves notice to them, like were watching you. Walstrom Marine acquired a new property on the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay. The Michigan boat dealership is considering creating a full-scale marina and/or multi-use condos. (Photo Courtesy of Walstrom Marine) Walstrom Marine TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- For nearly 80 years Walstrom Marine has had a presence on the Great Lakes. With its new acquisition on Grand Traverse Bay, the boat company is looking to expand its footprint once again. Walstrom Marine, in partnership with Far Side Properties, acquired the Viridian commercial office building on the west arm of the Grand Traverse Bay. Founded in Harbor Springs, Walstrom locations now span Northern Michigan and stretch down the Lakeshore. Locations offer dealership options, maintenance, parts, storage and docking. Walstrom Marine has properties in Harbor Springs, Traverse City, Bay Harbor, Charlevoix, Holland, Cheboygan and Algonac. The new property plans for Grand Traverse Bay arent set in stone but ideas include a full-scale marina with facilities or a mixed-use development with condominiums and a private marina. The company will be looking for community feedback before moving forward said Kyle Oleson, General Manager of Walstrom Marine in Traverse City. Living and working in the Grand Traverse area, we know that lake access for boaters has reached a critical status, Oleson said. Folks are waiting upwards of a decade to get a slip. We want to be part of the solution. Tom Ervin, President of Walstrom Marine, added that this project has been 18 months in the making. As the decision process continues, Viridian remains open and will continue to operate as a commercial office building. Admittedly, it is a complex, challenging project, but seeing the positive impact it could have by meeting community needs and supporting the transformation of this immediate area, its definitely worth the effort. We are excited to see this project come to life, Ervin said. Walstrom owns and operates marinas in Harbor Springs and Algonac, totaling 526 boat slips. The remainder of its properties operate as dealerships. Walstrom Marine represents iconic brands on the water like Chris Craft, Pursuit, Regal, Sea Ray, and Tiara. More on the water: Is it a Woodie or modern? See the custom boat build thats turning heads on the Lakeshore Staff at Potter Park Zoo in Lansing announced Thursday that its red panda, Maliha, gave birth on July 5. Potter Park Zoo LANSING, MI A Michigan zoo is celebrating the birth of another red panda cub. Staff at Potter Park Zoo in Lansing announced Thursday that its red panda, Maliha, gave birth on July 5. The cub is the fifth litter produced by Maliha and father Deagan-Reid as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan. A cub was also born in 2024. The newborn appears to be healthy and developing well, staff said. It will remain in an off-exhibit den area with its mother to ensure proper bonding and care. We are fortunate that Maliha is a fantastic mother, and the cub is doing well, said Pat Fountain, Animal Care Supervisor. This successful birth is very important to this endangered species. Red panda newborns are born deaf, blind, and are small enough to fit into your palm. It takes more than two weeks for cubs to open their eyes, and about two months before they begin venturing out of the nest. Red pandas are native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China and are classified as endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and fragmentation. Their population has declined significantly, with estimates suggesting a 50% decrease over the last 18 years. Arriving from the Knoxville Zoo in 2021, Deagan-Reid was paired with Maliha based on genetic diversity. There are around 130 red pandas in AZA institutions. The cubs name will be revealed later, zoo staff said. According to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization, purported Bigfoot sightings are relatively common in Michigan. Samantha Swindler/ The Oregonian When it comes to Bigfoot encounters, Michigan is a hot spot. According to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization (yes, its real), purported Bigfoot sightings are relatively common in Michigan with 226 sightings reported to the organization. Only California, Florida, Illinois, Ohio, Oregon, Texas and Washington, which has a whopping 725 reports, have more. The most recent encounter occurred in Monroe County in May was deemed credible by the BFRO, but the reality is there have been reports made across the state for years. However, there are some counties where youre more likely to have an encounter, if the date is to be believed. RELATED: Glowing eyes, strange sounds: Michigans last 10 reported Bigfoot encounters Here is a look at the regions with the most sightings reported by the BFRO. Delta County 11 The most recent report was filed in May 2018 when possible vocalizations were heard outside Rock near the western edge of Hiawatha National Forest in the Upper Peninsula. Reports date back to October 1982. Oscoda County 10 Its been a while since a report was filed, with the last coming near Mio in May 2010. Reports in the Northern Michigan county date back to October 1986. Marquette County 9 Large, unusual footprints were observed in deep snow near Bass Lake in April 2008. Reports in the populated U.P. county date back to summer 1972. Ogemaw County 8 A motorist has a possible daylight sighting just north of South Branch in September 2016. Reports in this Northern Michigan county date back to November 1991. Schoolcraft County 8 The large county in the Central U.P. has reports dating back to April 1962. The latest reported encounter was by a hunter tracking his dogs at night outside the Seney National Wildlife Refuge in August 2010. Manistee County 7 A night fisherman was startled while in their boat at Tippy Dam Campground in April 2012. Reports in the West Michigan county on Lake Michigan date back to November 1962. Roscommon County 7 Mid-Michigan also has its fair share of encounters. The last occurred in April 2017 when a family driving on a rural two-track had an encounter north of Higgins Lake. Reports date back to November 1968. Grand Traverse County 6 The home of Traverse City has reports dating back to June 1982. The latest occurred in winter when a snowmobiler observed a large figure cross the trail behind him near Traverse City in December 2012. Iosco County 6 The county on Lake Erie has reports dating back until January 1979. The last occurred in October 2017 when a father and daughter reported an encounter on the edge of the Huron National Forest. Alcona, Benzie, Monroe, Montcalm 5 OAKLAND COUNTY, MI It appears a bizarre saga involving a missing mechanical bull is coming to an end. The Oakland County Sheriffs Office had been investigating the missing Bucking HEMI after Ram, through its parent company Stellantis, reported it stolen on Aug. 12. The bull went missing after an event at Roadkill Nights in Pontiac on Aug. 9. This is bull****, Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis said in statement. Our Bucking HEMI was taken on Saturday evening. The search is officially on, and we wont stop searching until we get him back. The alleged theft received widespread media coverage, but the case took a turn on Wednesday when Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard alleged the bull was never stolen the item actually was in the possession of people at the company, he told Fox 2 in Detroit. The company never actually lost the bull. I find this to be very frustrating and a tremendous waste of valuable investigative time. Now, were pivoting to see if a crime was committed by the filing of a false police report. Ram later told the TV station that the report was legitimately filed before a contractor stepped forward and admitted they had the bull. It was found 650 miles away and is expected to be returned to the company on Thursday, Fox 2 reported. The mechanical bull was created to celebrate the return of the legendary HEMI V-8 engine. Shaped in the image of the brands symbol of horsepower and rebellion and affectionately named the Bucking HEMI, the unique creation made its first public appearance at Michigan International Speedway on June 8 to mark Ram brands return to NASCAR. Kettering University hosts its Class of 2016 graduation at the Connie and Jim John Recreation Center, Saturday, June 81, 2016. Conor Ralph | MLive.com The Flint Journal Ten Michigan institutions are once again on top in the latest ratings for Best Colleges, according to the Princeton Review. The ratings for 2026, which feature small private colleges up to large public universities in an annual book, were released this week and include 391 colleges across the U.S. Attorney General Dana Nessel urges all eligible local governments to participate in the nationwide agreement to maximize resources for addiction prevention and treatment. Nessel is pictured speaking with members of the press in the Michigan Capitol House Appropriations room Lansing on Jan. 24, 2024. (MLive.com) Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com The deadline is approaching for 279 local governments in Michigan to secure a piece of the $7.4 billion Purdue Pharma national opioid settlement. Michigan municipalities have until Sept. 30 to partake in the nationwide agreement resolving litigation against Purdue and its owners, the Sackler family, for their role in creating and worsening the opioid crisis, Attorney General Dana Nessels office announced Wednesday, Aug. 13. FLINT, MI -- The city has set a curfew for minors during Back to the Bricks, a three-day celebration of classic vehicles and a signature event for Flint. The 6 p.m. curfew will be in effect from Thursday, Aug. 14, through Saturday, Aug. 16, with the restriction lifted at 6 a.m. the following mornings during the weekend, according to an announcement from Flint police. The curfew applies to those 16 or younger, who are required to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian in a designated special event area -- from Fifth Avenue south to I-69 and Southbound Chavez Drive to Church Street. Back to the Bricks started in downtown Flint in 2004, and the special curfew for the event has been in place for several years. This years festivities started on Monday, Aug. 11, and continues through Main Event Saturday, which starts with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. that will pay tribute to veterans and active-duty military personnel. This years event comes the weekend after the death of an 18-year-old girl, who was shot in the downtown area on Aug. 10, during an 810 Day celebration. The shooting remains under investigation, but police have said the victim was struck by a stray bullet that was intended for another person. The primary aim of this curfew ordinance is to ensure the safety and orderliness of the event, providing a secure environment for all participants, Flint police said in a news release. The Flint Police Department urges (residents), visitors, and event attendees to embrace this cherished tradition while being aware of the enforcement measures in place. By adhering to the regulations, everyone can fully enjoy the authentic experience of Back to the Bricks. Feeding America West Michigan estimates 50,000 households in its coverage area will either lose food stamps or see their benefits cut because of President Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill. GRAND RAPIDS, MI With federal cuts to food stamps looming, Feeding America West Michigan has launched a $1.5 million fundraising campaign to help local food banks meet an expected surge in demand for meals. An estimated 50,000 households in Feeding America West Michigans 40-county service area are expected to either lose food stamps or see their benefits reduced because of upcoming eligibility changes, said Ken Estelle, Feeding America West Michigans president and CEO. Eligibility changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, were included in President Donald Trumps massive tax and spending cut legislation, dubbed the One Big Beautiful Bill. The changes are expected to take effect over the next two years, Estelle said. Were calling it the perfect storm, Estelle said. We have unprecedented need. We have food cancellations and food issues, and were also looking at assistance changes in food assistance programs. People who lose food stamps or see their benefits reduced are expected to turn to local food banks to help them get the meals they need, officials said. Feeding America West Michigan announced its fundraising campaign, Bridge the Gap, during a town hall at its Kentwood headquarters. Thus far, the campaign has received a $300,000 matching donation from an anonymous donor, and officials are urging other residents with the means to donate. The high cost of groceries and cuts to other food federal food assistance programs under the Trump administration are also contributing to Feeding America West Michigans need for additional resources, officials said Thursday. Feeding America West Michigan provides food to 800 food banks and mobile pantries across its service area, which covers all of western Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. During the town hall, Estelle was joined by a food policy expert, a lobbyist for the Michigan Retailers Association, the operations manager of a food bank, and a resident whose family relies on food banks for healthy, nutritious food. Theres a lot of concern for the what if, not knowing if the programs that our friends have relied on will continue, said Cheryl Youngquist, director of operations at Love in Action, an organization that provides food assistance and other services in Ottawa County. Currently, adults ages 18 to 54 without dependent children need to work at least 80 hours a month to qualify for more than three months of SNAP benefits. Under Trumps new law, work requirements will be expanded to adults up to 64 years old plus parents of children 14 and older. Additionally, states wont be able to waive the work requirement for individual counties unless they have an unemployment rate above 10%. Its very concerning in terms of the number of people and the number of families that may be affected by that policy change and simply have less money to purchase healthy foods, said Anna Fischer, director for healthy communities at Lansing-based Public Policy Associates. The looming SNAP cuts come at a challenging time for Feeding America West Michigan, Estelle said. The organization has felt the pinch not only from high resident demand but also from reductions in other federal food assistance programs, he said. We saw a record need thats increased 71% since 2021, Estelle said. At the same time weve seen the most need, weve seen food cuts. Weve had at least two major (U.S. Department of Agriculture) programs that have been terminated that have affected us directly. He said those cuts, made by the Trump administration, reduced by $2.2 million the amount of food that his organization would have received. The programs that have been cut were the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement and a portion of the Emergency Food Assistance Program funded by the Credit Commodity Corporation (CCC). The CCC line item was canceled by the USDA permanently, Estelle said. He noted the USDAs Local Food Purchasing Agreement provided his organization grant funding to purchase food from small, Michigan farms. That program, beginning next financial year, was terminated permanently, he said. To cover the cost of those cuts, Feeding America West Michigan has relied on funds from grants, donors and Feeding America West Michigans reserves, Estelle said. He estimated that his organization is now spending on average roughly $70,000 a week on food. He added, though, that such funds are limited, and we can only do that to the amount that we have the funding to be able to do it. When the SNAP cuts take effect, impacting an estimated 50,000 households in Feeding America West Michigans coverage area, demand is only expected to grow, Estelle said. Thats why the $1.5 million Bridge the Gap fundraising campaign is so important, he said. We need to prepare for it, Estelle said. Part of this campaign is to really help us do that. China's marine economy powers ahead for high-quality growth Xinhua) 08:00, August 14, 2025 BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Bolstered by sustained policy support and enhanced innovation capacity, China's marine economy is poised for robust growth during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), underpinned by the world's largest and most comprehensive marine industrial system. With a mainland coastline stretching 18,000 km and a sea area under its jurisdiction of around 3 million square km, China is a major maritime nation, well-positioned to develop its marine economy, guest speakers noted on the latest episode of China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency. China's marine economy has seen steady expansion in recent years, making significant progress across multiple sectors, including marine fisheries, shipbuilding, cruise tourism, deep-sea mineral extraction and the development of deep-sea genetic resources, according to the speakers. During the roundtable, they also shared policy insights on bolstering the "blue" growth and strengthening international cooperation on ocean governance. Guests attend the latest episode of the China Economic Roundtable, an all-media talk show hosted by Xinhua News Agency. (Xinhua/Chen Yehua) THRIVING MARINE ECONOMY In 2024, China's marine economy achieved a significant milestone with its gross ocean product (GOP) surpassing 10 trillion yuan (about 1.4 trillion U.S. dollars) for the first time, more than double the figure recorded in 2012, said Ma Weichen, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission, the country's top economic planner. Ma added that China now boasts the world's largest and most comprehensive marine industrial system, encompassing all 15 major marine industries. Using the shipbuilding industry as an example, Ma noted that Chinese shipbuilders topped global rankings in 2024 across all three traditional metrics -- completion volume, new orders and order backlog -- each accounting for more than half of the world market, with new orders alone exceeding 70 percent. Official data also showed that in 2024, China's shipping volume and container throughput accounted for about one-third of the global total, while its market share in vessels and offshore engineering equipment exceeded 50 percent worldwide. Despite external uncertainties, China's marine economy has maintained a sound momentum this year. The country's GOP grew by 5.8 percent year on year to 5.1 trillion yuan in the first half of 2025, according to preliminary calculations. An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 1, 2025 shows oversized offshore wind turbine blades being transported from Yantai Port in east China's Shandong Province. (Photo by Tang Ke/Xinhua) FUTURE ENGINE OF "BLUE" GROWTH Building on the momentum of robust "blue" growth, Chinese authorities have firmly placed the development of the marine economy on the national agenda. During a high-level meeting of the Central Commission for Financial and Economic Affairs in early July, Chinese leadership stressed that advancing Chinese modernization requires "promoting the marine economy's high-quality development" alongside a "Chinese path of leveraging marine resources to achieve strength." Policymakers highlighted five areas of focus, namely, innovation-driven growth, efficient coordination, industrial renewal, harmony between humans and the sea, and win-win cooperation, according to the meeting. Following the meeting's decisions, relevant departments are formulating a comprehensive plan to promote the high-quality development of the marine economy during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), according to Ma. Ma said that, as a key part of the plan, China aims to achieve breakthroughs in core marine technologies and secure major original scientific and technological outcomes. The country will also enhance comprehensive planning of coastal areas, nearshore waters and the deep sea, while accelerating the transformation of traditional marine industries, Ma added. Speaking at the roundtable, Gu Wu, an official of the Ministry of Natural Resources, said that China will stick to innovation-driven development and adopt more measures to cultivate new-quality productive forces in the marine sector. Efforts will be made to promote marine energy utilization, seawater desalination, and the development of marine medicines and pharmaceutical products, Gu added. INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION ON OCEAN GOVERNANCE On June 12, China's research icebreaker Xuelong (Snow Dragon) 2, arrived in Shanghai, marking the completion of key missions in the country's 41st Antarctic expedition. "This expedition involved the participation of research institutions and scientists from eight countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Thailand and Malaysia," Gu said. "It has exemplified China's active engagement in global ocean governance." China's research icebreaker Xuelong 2, or Snow Dragon 2, berths at the Lyttelton Port in Christchurch, New Zealand, March 18, 2025. (Photo by Yan Xinyun/Xinhua) To date, the country has signed cooperation agreements in the marine sector with more than 50 countries and international organizations, according to Gu. In addition, China has jointly established marine research centers, laboratories and other cooperation platforms with nine countries, and set up regular ocean cooperation mechanisms with African, Southeast Asian and island nations, Gu said. By the end of 2024, China had organized more than 300 training sessions on ocean governance, providing training opportunities for over 6,000 young scholars from developing countries. Meanwhile, Chinese industries such as port construction and aquaculture have been steadily expanding into overseas markets, tapping diversified ocean development models to harness the surging momentum of the blue economy, Gu said. While the marine economy is a type of open economy, it is imperative to strengthen international cooperation on ocean governance, the guest speakers noted at the roundtable. China will take more measures to promote sustainable development of the oceans and build a maritime community with a shared future, Gu added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) On Thursday, August 14, a new exchange took place, and 84 people were returned from Russian captivity to Ukraine, including both military and civilians, almost all of whom need medical assistance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. We are bringing Ukrainians back home to Ukraine. A new exchange, 84 people, both military personnel and civilians. Almost all of them require medical care and significant rehabilitation, Zelenskyy said on X Thursday. The President reported that among the released civilians are those who were held by the Russians since 2014, 2016, and 2017. Among the military personnel released today are the defenders of Mariupol. He thanked everyone in the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, the GUR, the President's Office, in the special services who work for the return of Ukrainians, as well as the UAE for their assistance in this exchange. And above all, I thank our warriors who replenish Ukraines exchange fund every week on the frontline. The bravery and effectiveness of our units on the frontline make it possible, among other things, to bring our people back home, Zelenskyy stressed. The head of state added that there will be more exchanges. The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War reported that 33 military personnel and 51 Ukrainian civilians have been released today. Pictures of Kelly Harris sit on a table near statues of angels at the Hugall home. Erik Holladay SUMMIT TWP., MI A 74-year-old man has been charged with killing his 13-year-old stepdaughter in 1984. Leonard Hugall, now in police custody, is set to be extradited from Florida on charges of first-degree felony murder and second-degree murder in the death of Kelly Jean Harris, who went missing Aug. 11, 1984, from Summit Township, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Kelsey Guernsey. The Newell Brands Design Center, 3300 Research Way in Kalamazoo, Michigan on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. The company is in the process of relocating from the 11-year-old facility in Western Michigan University's Business, Technology and Research Park to its global headquarters campus in Atlanta. The move is expected to be complete by mid-2026. Ryan Boldrey | MLive.com KALAMAZOO, MI Eleven years after opening its Kalamazoo design center, Newell Brands is relocating the centers operations to its global headquarters in Atlanta. The facility, at 3300 Research Way, opened in 2014 with the help of multiple tax abatements and grants from the city and state. Relocation to Atlanta is expected to be complete by mid-2026, a Newell Brands corporate spokesperson said. In 2013, Newell known for brands like Rubbermaid, Sharpie, Coleman, Mr. Coffee and Yankee candles was given $164,000 in tax abatements by the city. The company also received a $2 million Michigan Business Development performance-based grant for choosing Kalamazoo over a location in Chicago. Newell initially leased the space from Southwest Michigan First, which began constructing the $4 million, 40,000-square-foot facility in Western Michigan Universitys Business Technology and Research Park in 2013. The economic development organization would allow Newell to build out the interior to fit the companys needs as a product design hub. Newell would then invest over $6 million into the community in the next three years, while introducing 100 new high-paying jobs to the area, MLive reported previously. An 18,000-square-foot expansion in 2017 resulted in another 87 jobs and netted Newell another $1.48 million in performance-based grant funds from the state. RELATED: Newell Brands will expand in Kalamazoo with $1.48M from state The city also approved a 12-year Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption for the expansion, which was anticipated to save the company $264,480 through 2029. The city is yet to comment on whether it will seek to reclaim the abatements. At the conclusion of a second five-year lease with Southwest Michigan First, Newell exercised its option to purchase the building, a SWMF spokesperson confirmed. The sale, for $3.8 million, was finalized in February 2024, property records show. Southwest Michigan First is grateful for the positive impact Newell Brands has made in our region over the past 12 years, Jonas Peterson, SWMF CEO said in a statement. Through quality jobs, competitive wages and generous community contributions, they strengthened our economy and engaged deeply with local schools, Western Michigan University and our MIX design network. While were disappointed to see them leave this location, we remain committed to helping their talented team find new opportunities in our region. A Newell Brands corporate spokesperson said many Kalamazoo employees would be given the opportunity to relocate. An exact number, however, was not given. The spokesperson stated that Newell is committed to supporting (its) impacted employees and those who leave the company with transition support. The decision to close the facility was made after careful review and consideration and aligns with our overall corporate strategy and commitment to delivering growth fueled by innovation, the spokesperson said in a statement. This move will bring our team and capabilities closer to company leadership, segments, and functions, enhancing our ability to have greater investment in innovation, brand building and go-to-market excellence, the spokesperson said. Newell Brands employs over 24,000 people, does business in 150 countries and has 50 brands, according to the company website. The publicly-traded company has a net worth of $2.14 billion. Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark MLives local Kalamazoo news page. OCEANA COUNTY, MI A 46-year-old Shelby man was fatally shot Thursday morning, Aug. 14, police said. The shooting was reported around 7:10 a.m. in the 4000 block of East Buchanan Road in Oceana Countys Ferry Township. Oceana County sheriffs deputies and state police responded and found the man deceased. Investigators from both agencies and the state police crime laboratory remained at the scene Thursday afternoon. We have no reason to believe there is any risk to the public from this incident, Sheriff Craig Mast said in a statement. He said police would not provide further information at this time. Mason County sheriffs detectives and Ludington police detectives are assisting with the investigation. Screenshot from security camera footage showing police arrest Shane W. Gillette after he allegedly broke into the Bay County Law Enforcement Center on May 12, 2025. Cole Waterman BAY CITY, MI This spring, a paroled bank robber was allegedly recorded smashing his way into the Bay County Law Enforcement Center. Since then, hes racked up new charges after allegedly assaulting a fellow inmate and a corrections officer. Police allege 38-year-old Shane W. Gillette broke into their headquarters at 503 Third St. the afternoon of May 12. Officers and sheriffs deputies entered the lobby and arrested Gillette. 39 1 / 39 Cheeseburger Festival in Caseville CASEVILLE, MI - In a city with a population of only 640 people, tens of thousands gathered for a festival to celebrate two things - cheeseburgers and Jimmy Buffett. The Cheeseburger in Caseville Festival first took place in 1999 in the Thumb community and grown with every passing year, transforming from three days to the current 10-day extravaganza. One of the biggest events during the festival is the mile-long parade, charmingly named the Parade Of Tropical Fools. This years parade on Wednesday, Aug. 13, featured a line of floats ranging from a giant driving cheeseburger to a massive mermaid float with dancing mermaids and moving parts. The parade draws one of the festivals biggest crowds, with some attendees planting their chairs on Main Street at midnight after a rule was instituted stating attendees were prevented from placing chairs until the day of the event. Younger attendees have been coming to the festival their whole lives, such as 17-year-old Caseville resident Cambri Mitchell. The parade, definitely. And meeting a bunch of new people from all over the world, she said of her favorite aspects of the festival. Along with the parade, the festival features a long list of events, vendors, and of course, Jimmy Buffett cover bands. Bands are booked a year in advance including the only officially sanctioned Jimmy Buffett cover band - A1A - who took the stage on Wednesday night. In the vein of the trop rock theme, many in the crowd wore brightly colored tropical clothing including flamingo hats and Hawaiian shirts. Some simply wore giant cheeseburger hats on their heads. Regardless of which theme they chose, both types of outfits were a sight to see. With an influx of 50,000 people coming in on Wednesday alone, the impact for Caseville is undeniable. We estimate 200,000 cheeseburgers. So if you take the average price, say $10, thats $2 million in cheeseburgers that goes through this community, said Steve Louwers, president and event coordinator for the Caseville Chamber of Commerce, the association which organizes the festival. The historical impact of the festival has also been seen over the years. I met a Caseville girl; my wife was born and raised. I met her down there. We moved out 35 years ago, and we owned a business, we owned a hardware store, Louwers said. And at that time, when we first moved up here, there may have been, Im not exaggerating, 15 to 20 open storefronts. You cant find any open storefronts nowadays because of what (the) Cheeseburger (festival) did. One of the restaurants contributing to this boom in Caseville is the restaurant Beachys, the official Cheeseburger Festival winner of the cheeseburger contest. Throughout the festival week they expect to sell 20,000 cheeseburgers, having already sold 12,000 by Wednesday. The victorious cheeseburger includes pesto cream cheese, a half-pound patty burger with Munster cheese, crumbled pepperoni, four-cheese ravioli, and homemade hot honey. Kyle Joelle Bowles, who manages the family-owned restaurant, was overjoyed with winning the contest and loved the response from the community. Its amazing. If we wouldnt have won, it still would have been amazing, she said. We have so much support from the community, the locals, the city people. We are very blessed and its so much fun. The festival continues until Sunday, August 14. A full list of events can be found here. Louwers explained the festival is a safe place for everyone to come and enjoy. What Im most proud of is the kids and the families. Festivals can go awry because youre getting the wrong kind of people into the town and stuff like that. Its never been like that, I made sure it wasnt going to be like that, he said. And if you look at the philosophy of Jimmy Buffett, relax, mellow, party, have fun, family. Jimmy Buffett was a huge family man. And basically, were taking all of those and doing the best we can with it. Michigan is moving closer to criminalizing AI-generated porn that depicts real people without their consent. (MLive file photo) Michigan is moving closer to criminalizing AI-generated porn that depicts real people without their consent. Bills to criminalize the sharing and creating of deepfake porn unanimously passed the Michigan Senate on Wednesday, Aug. 13, by a 32-0 vote. Because a small tweak was made to the bills in the Senate, they now head back to the House for final approval before they can head to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers desk. Earlier this year, the House passed the bills by a nearly unanimous vote. If signed into law, a person could face up to three years in prison and a civil lawsuit if they create or distribute nonconsensual deepfake porn. Deepfake porn refers to believably realistic but fake sexual videos, images or audio that are created by artificial intelligence or other digital tools and use the likeness of a real person that wasnt originally participating in the intimate act. An example of this is using technology to edit an image of a nude person or someone engaged in a sexual act by swapping that persons face with the face of another person from another image. The growing accessibility and capability of artificial intelligence tools have only increased the issue. Celebrities are most often targeted, as seen last year when sexually explicit deepfake images of Taylor Swift circulated online. This sparked a nationwide push for legal protections, like the ones Michigan is considering. A number of states have banned deepfake porn. At the federal level, it was made illegal in May to knowingly publish or threaten to publish intimate images of a person, including deepfakes, without their consent, the Associated Press reports. Children, teens and other adults have also been in the crosshairs. School leaders in West Michigan last year warned parents and students of the use of deepfake technology in sextortion schemes targeting children. Under the proposed state law, a person would be guilty of a misdemeanor if they create or send deepfake porn of a person without their consent. That misdemeanor would be punishable by up to one year in prison and up to $3,000 in fines. To prove consent, a person would need a written agreement from the depicted individual that outlines a description of the approved deepfake. A felony charge could be issued if any of the following apply to the nonconsensual deepfake porn: The subject of the deepfake suffers financial loss because of it A person maintains an online website for creating or distributing the deepfake A person posts the deepfake on a website A person creates or distributes the deepfake with an intent to make profit A person uses the deepfake to harass, extort or threaten the depicted person A person has previously been convicted of a misdemeanor deepfake porn charge The felony would be punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. The bills would allow someone to file a civil lawsuit against a person who created or shared a deepfake if they did so knowing it would cause physical, emotional, reputational or economic harm to the person depicted. A person could also be sued if they created or distributed a deepfake to harass, extort, threaten or cause physical, emotional, reputational or economic harm to the person depicted. The civil suit would allow the victim to seek financial compensation from the perpetrator and an order from a judge to cease the creation or distribution of the deepfake. A judge could also issue a civil fine of up to $1,000 per day if the perpetrator defied an order to cease distribution or creation of the deepfake, with the money going to the victim. Internet service providers, telecom networks, or educational or library systems that provide for the transmission of nonconsensual deepfakes or access to them would not be liable under the law. Additionally, the Senate added an amendment that would protect companies that develop and distribute technology capable of creating deepfakes from liability under the law if the technology was not marketed for that use and if that use was explicitly prohibited. When it comes to big, 3-row SUVs, no Japanese, Korean or German brand even comes close to this Indian model Varun Singh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Photo: https://t.me/V_Zelenskiy_official/ President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has concluded his visit to the United Kingdom, Head of the President's Office Andriy Yermak has said. "Meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer at a time when every day matters for the security of Europe and the entire democratic world. Our partners are united in supporting Ukraine. They see the end of the war as a just and lasting peace. Coordination among allies continues daily, without any pauses. We are in constant contact," Yermak said on his Telegram channel. He expressed gratitude to the United Kingdom, the British people, the prime minister, the entire team, the embassy, and personally to the ambassador for the excellent organization of the president's and the Ukrainian delegation's visit. Prime Minister of Ukraine Yulia Svyrydenko held a conversation with her Latvian counterpart Evika Silina, during which they discussed, in particular, Ukraine's European integration and further security, defense, and humanitarian assistance. "Had a good conversation with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina. I thanked Latvia for its unwavering support of Ukraine and participation in the Coalition of the Willing. Latvia supports the position of the President of Ukraine regarding the impossibility of separating Ukraine and Moldova in the EU accession process. This is critical for the security of Southeastern Europe and the Black Sea. We discussed further security, defense, and humanitarian assistance. I can see with my own eyes how my native Chernihiv region is being restored thanks to international assistance," she said on Telegram on Thursday. 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 USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. 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I Accept Coolie movie review: Rajinikanth entertains in the mass avatar; Aamir Khan and Nagarjuna nail their action packed roles Sarika Sharma USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Exclusive: Salakaar actor Surya Sharma on playing negative roles on screen: "All of us have shades of grey in our lives" Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Lakshmi Manchu celebrates Rajinikanths 50 years legacy in cinema, calls him "a man of inspiration and aspiration" Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine Thanks to the support of the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS), nearly 250 children of Ukrainian defenders had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation this year. "With financial support from the Danish Red Cross, the Ukrainian Red Cross Society organized seven trips to health camps and vacation spots in Ukraine and abroad," the URCS said on Facebook on Thursday. Children and their families vacationed in various parts of the world, including Azerbaijan, Turkey, Germany, and Uzbekistan. URCS representatives provided assistance at every stage: from preparing documents and handling logistics to accompanying the children during their travels. Sharmila Tagore urges compassion in Supreme Court stray dog debate: A door has been slammed shut on the voiceless' Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sushmita Sen to Neena Gupta: Celebs who openly asked for work in Bollywood Jackie Shroff Said in interviews that he has no shame in asking for work and even tells people, Work is work, give me some. Tisca Chopra Disclosed that she messaged directors herself to ask for meaningful roles and carved her space in films. Chunky Panday Admitted that when Bollywood offers dried up, he reached out for roles and survived on foreign films. Sharad Kelkar Candidly said he had to call up producers and ask for television work after film setbacks. Sanjay Mishra Shared that after quitting films, he asked Rohit Shetty for work, which reignited his career. Anupam Kher After decades of work, admitted he was jobless in 2019 and requested filmmakers to cast him. Sushmita Sen Revealed she personally called OTT executives saying, I want to come back and work. Achint Kaur Shared a video on social media saying shes ready for whats next and asked makers for roles. Neena Gupta Posted on Instagram, I live in Mumbai and am a good actor looking for good parts to play, in a bold public request. Vaishnavi Gavankar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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I Accept Web series 'insulting soldiers': police say no 'criminality' found in allegations against Ekta Kapoor Satwik Jaiswal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Bogus trusts suspected of laundering CSR funds uncovered in I-T raids, search set to widen Meghna Mittal Deputy News Editor at Moneycontrol. Meghna has experience across television, print, online and wire media. She has been covering the Indian economy, monetary and fiscal policies, Finance and Trade ministries. She tweets at @Meghnamittal23 Contact: meghna.mittal@nw18.com Meghna Mittal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Co-chairs of Coalition of the Willing: No limitations should be placed on AFU and Russias veto against Ukraines pathway to EU and NATO German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who co-chaired the online meeting of the leaders of the Coalition of the Willing on Wednesday, issued a joint statement following the meeting, which was published on official Internet resources. Leaders welcomed President Trumps efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine, end Russias war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace. They welcomed the open discussions with President Trump earlier that day. They were clear that the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. It was necessary to continue an approach that combined active diplomacy, support to Ukraine and pressure on Russia. A diplomatic solution must protect Ukraines and Europes vital security interests, the official press release says. The statement also formulates four postulates: First, meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or a lasting and significant cessation of hostilities. Second, sanctions and wider economic measures to put pressure on Russias war economy should be strengthened if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire in Alaska. Third, international borders must not be changed by force. Fourth, Ukraine must have robust and credible security guarantees to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 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, says a statement by the Coalition co-chairs. 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I Accept Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Debangana Ghosh USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Infosys stock gains on JV with Telstras Versent Group in Australia, brokerages give thumbs up Zoya Springwala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Rubio: Security guarantees for Ukraine needed to be part of peace talks with Russia media Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/ US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said ahead of the Trump-Putin summit on Friday that "to achieve peace, I think we all recognise that therell have to be some conversation about security guarantees," adding that he hoped for rapid progress toward ending the war, The Guardian reported. Therell have to be some conversation about ... territorial disputes and claims, and what theyre fighting over, the State Secretary said. To achieve peace, I think we all recognise that therell have to be some conversation about security guarantees, he added. Rubio also said he was "hopeful" about Friday's talks. Well see whats possible tomorrow. Lets see how the talks go. And were hopeful, he said. Padmini Dhruvaraj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer This is an AI-assisted live blog with updates from multiple sources Disclaimer Alpha Desk USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years. Debaroti Adhikary USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Danish Khan is the editor of Technology and Telecom. He was previously with the Economic Times and has tracked the sector for 14 years. Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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I Accept Applied for voter card due to financial difficulties: Minta Devi, face of Congress' '124-not out' campaign against Bihar SIR Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/ Poroshenko calls territorial swap Putin scenario; is cautiously optimistic about Alaska meeting KYIV. Aug 14 (Interfax-Ukraine) MP of Ukraine, leader of the European Solidarity party Petro Poroshenko does not expect that an agreement on peace in Ukraine will be reached during the meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, but hopes for an agreement on a ceasefire, the political force said on the website on Thursday. "I do not expect that a peace agreement will be concluded tomorrow. This is impossible. I am very cautiously optimistic. We expect a comprehensive, unconditional ceasefire as a result of this meeting. This would be the first important step towards stopping the war," Poroshenko said on the air of the Italian TV channel Sky TG24. At the same time, he called the talks on the exchange of territories a Putin scenario. "I understand that Putin does not want to stop the war... He does not have any significant successes, despite all the difficulties that Ukraine is facing in this war, especially in the east of our country, in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, in Sumy and Zaporizhia. I think that Putin's attempt to apply a very strange approach, for example, an exchange of territories, can harm the process," the politician said, adding that "we in Ukraine do not trade, we do not sell our territories." "We want to preserve and protect internationally recognized borders and stop Putin's attempt to conduct long and empty negotiations... From all my experience, it is absolutely necessary that we start with a comprehensive, unconditional ceasefire," Poroshenko said. As reported, last Friday, after the trip of Special Representative Stephen Witkoff to Moscow, Trump announced that his meeting with Putin would take place on August 15 in Alaska. In particular, he announced his intention to agree on the return of part of the occupied territory to Ukraine, and also announced his intention to agree on some "territorial swaps." Bessent says tariffs on India could go up if Trump-Putin talks in Alaska fail Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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I Accept India, China eye twin thaw: Border trade and direct flights may resume after five years Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Sweta Goswami USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept UKRNAFTA has started a fundraiser for UAH 4,000,000 to support the Boryviter Military School, which has been training military personnel free of charge for over three years in 12 areas, including UAV control, work with military communications and electronic warfare, topography, and military management. Since 2022, the school's instructors have trained over 31,000 fighters who today defend Ukrainian cities and neutralize enemy drones and equipment. The purpose of the collection is to purchase drones, communications equipment, simulators, training equipment, as well as to finance free training for the military. "This project is about knowledge that saves lives and about our common goal to ensure that good morning is in every corner of the country," notes Acting Chairman of the Board Yuriy Tkachuk. As part of the project, UAH 5 from each coffee sold at UKRNAFTA filling stations will be directed to the needs of the school. 25 unique designs of coffee cups with symbols of cities and regions of Ukraine were created for the initiative. "Ukrnafta" is the largest oil producing company in Ukraine, is the operator of the national network of filling stations. In March 2024, the company entered the management of Glusco assets and operates a total of 545 filling stations - 461 of its own and 84 under management. The company is implementing a comprehensive program to resume operations and update the format of its network of gas stations. Since February 2023, it has been issuing its own fuel coupons and "NAFTAKarta" cards, which are sold to legal entities and individuals through LLC "Ukrnafta-Postach". The largest shareholder of "Ukrnafta" is NJSC "Naftogaz of Ukraine" with a share of 50% + 1 share. In November 2022, the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine decided to transfer to the state a share of the corporate rights of the company, which belonged to private owners and is now managed by the Ministry of Defense. Chhabi Kala USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Phase 1 of Worli BDD Chawl Redevelopment handed over: 556 families get new homes Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept PM Modi nears 1 lakh words in Independence Day speeches, more than double his predecessors pace Ishaan Gera USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Sanjay Raut slams Independence Day meat ban: Shivaji Maharaj did not go to war eating dal chawal Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept SC clears felling of first 95 trees for Mumbais GMLR tunnel; over 1,000 could go in total Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Total number of China-Europe freight trains departing from Xi'an exceeds 30,000 Xinhua) 08:21, August 14, 2025 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) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) SC seeks Centre's response on J&K statehood: 'Can't ignore what happened in Pahalgam' Hemant Abhishek USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept 'Share proof of anyone voting twice': EC replies to Rahul Gandhi's 'vote chori' allegation Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Supreme Court refuses to pass interim order on detention of Bengali migrant workers: 'If you don't detain...' Priyanjali Ghose USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arjun Kumar is a heritage explorer by inclination with a penchant for seeking obscure sites. A brand consultant by profession, he tweets @HiddenHeritage. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Bhartendu Kumar Singh is in the Indian Defence Accounts Service. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Namrata Agarwal USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept NE China's Changchun Film Studio sees tourism boom in summer Xinhua) 08:42, August 14, 2025 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. 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Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Aabhas Sharma USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Stories of High-Quality Development | Exploring China's efforts in ecological conservation People's Daily Online) 10:53, August 14, 2025 At Shougang Qian'an Iron & Steel Co., Ltd., forging green steel is no longer a slogan, but a reality achieved through ultra-low emissions across the entire production process. As the integrated development deepens in the Yangtze River Delta region, the Taipu River, which flows through Jiangsu, Zhejiang provinces, and the Shanghai Municipality, has brought the three regions together as close partners in joint governance of the river. Solar panels in the Kubuqi Desert now form a galloping "black steed," while the vast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau witnesses the majestic sight of "ten thousand Tibetan antelopes galloping together"... These vivid examples showcase China's remarkable achievements in advancing ecological progress. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the concept that "Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." The 10th episode of People's Daily's "Stories of High-Quality Development" will be released soon, inviting you to explore China's efforts in ecological conservation. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. 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Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept From 'I get along with him great' to 'Vladimir, STOP': How Trump's tone on Putin soured over time Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Stories of High-Quality Development | Toward green prosperity: Making coordinated efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development and boost economic growth People's Daily Online) 14:24, August 14, 2025 High-quality development is the primary task in building a modern socialist country in all respects. Promoting greener, low-carbon economic and social development is a key component in achieving high-quality development. Making coordinated efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development and boost economic growth not only summarizes and elevates practical experience but also reflects an accurate understanding of the new situation in ecological civilization construction. This approach is both a major strategic deployment and a guiding principle. It is an important part of China's path, governance, and reasoning in ecological civilization in the new era, providing direction and guidance for comprehensively building a Beautiful China and accelerating the modernization of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature on the new journey. "Lucid waters and lush mountains, and invaluable assets, serve as vivid representation of ecological conservation and economic development. They are not mutually exclusive or an either-or situation. They reinforce each other and thrive together," said Huang Runqiu, minister of ecology and environment, during an appearance on People's Daily's "Stories of High-Quality Development" series. He emphasized that on the new journey, guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization, China must uphold systemic thinking, take a holistic approach, focus on the key issues, attach great importance to implementation, and advance high-quality economic development and high-standard ecological conservation and environmental protection in a coordinated manner. Historic achievements in ecological environment improvement "Steel plants today especially those retrofitted with ultra-low emissions systems are worlds apart from the past," Huang noted. The battle against pollution has deepened, yielding significant results: more blue skies, cleaner waters, and greener shores are now visible to the public. A view of Shougang Qian'an Iron and Steel Co., Ltd. (Photo/Yin Xiaolong) Walking through a plant of Shougang Qian'an Iron and Steel Co., Ltd., one sees clean roads, lush greenery, and blue skies, with multiple environmental monitoring devices like vigilant sentinels, making it feel like a modern ecological park. Through innovation, blast furnaces can also generate "green momentum." Shougang Qian'an Steel became the first steel enterprise nationwide to pass ultra-low emissions evaluation and monitoring, and among global peers, it pioneered whole-process ultra-low emissions. Thanks to excellent green performance, the company is now a preferred supplier for several well-known automakers. Modernization of ecological governance continues to advance "Over the past few years, we've intensified efforts to clean up sewage outfalls into rivers and clean up black, malodorous water bodies to ensure beautiful rivers and lakes. Local governments have been urged to improve ecological and environmental infrastructure, leading to steady improvements in water ecological quality," Huang said. Photo shows the scenery of the Taipu River. (Photo/Wu Hengxuan) The Taipu River, one of the largest artificial waterways in the Taihu Basin, connects the economically vibrant Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, and the city of Shanghai. Villages such as Fenhuwan in Jiangsu, Hubin in Zhejiang, and Xinchi in Shanghai lie along its banks. In 2018, the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta was elevated to a national strategy. Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai jointly managed the Taipu River under a "joint river chief system." Party secretaries from the three villagesShen Xiaohua (Fenhuwan), Shen Jianchun (Hubin), and Chi Jianfang (Xinchi)formed a "cross-provincial partnership" and created a "Party-led ecological circle." Today, the Taipu River has clear water and green banks. Over 200 enterprises are located in the area, and villagers "see greenery when they step outside, rivers when they open windows, and have jobs near home." The Taipu River has truly become a "river of happiness" across Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai. The value of the "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets" principle continues to shine "There is a profound understanding of protecting and utilizing biodiversity in traditional Chinese culture," Huang said. High-quality development follows a people-centered approach, which means development that promotes well-rounded human development and all-round social progress; at the same time, it means respecting nature, following its laws, and protecting it. High-quality development also means driving biodiversity conservation and promoting well-functioning ecosystems. Tibetan antelopes in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province. (People's Daily Online/Huangfu Wanli) In the source regions of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers lies Hoh Xil on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, known as a "life forbidden zone." A group of people silently guard this sacred land and its most lively residentsthe Tibetan antelope. Tsedbng Rdoje, a staff member at the Sonam Dargye Protection Station, is among them. He takes pride in the changes in the antelope population. With society's support, they year after year brave harsh conditions, measuring the wilderness with their steps and protecting life with their own, allowing this beautiful species to thrive again. Significant results in green economic transformation Huang stressed that promoting coordinated efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development, and boost economic growth is not only key to high-quality economic development, but also crucial for pursuing more in-depth and effective environmental governance. It's essential for fundamentally improving the quality of the ecological environment at its source. A photovoltaic power generation application base in Dalad Banner, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Wei Qingcheng) On the grasslands of Ejin Horo Banner in Ordos, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, a portrait of energy transition unfolds: rows of solar panels glisten under the sun, while white wind turbines rotate gracefully in the distance. Once famous for its "sheep, coal, rare earths, and gas," Ordos is now advancing toward a "green zero-carbon city." Ecological civilization construction shapes the future of humanity. A green planet is our shared dream. Protecting the ecological environment and tackling climate change requires unity and joint action from all nations. No country can stand apart or go it alone. Huang pointed out promoting coordinated efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce pollution, pursue green development, and boost economic growth isn't just a national strategy, it's a shared mission for us all. From factories to farmlands, cities to villages, the government to individuals only by working together and making sustained efforts, can we make skies bluer, land greener, water cleaner, and development more sustainable. As the wheels of development roll forward, how do we keep the Earth full of life? The answer lies right within the echoes of the lucid waters and lush mountains, and along the journey of ecological civilization construction. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) Intel, funding and military support: CIA eyes return to Pakistan as US pledges 'counterterrorism' support Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chinese companies drive e-commerce development in Southeast Asia 16:12, August 14, 2025 By Yang Yi ( People's Daily A worker organizes commodities at a warehouse of JINGDONG Logistics, the logistics arm of Chinese e-commerce giant JD. com, in Malaysia. (Photo courtesy of JD Logistics) A recent report jointly released by Singapore's banking group DBS and market data and insights firm Cube projects that e-commerce sales in Southeast Asia will more than double from $184 billion in 2024 to $410 billion by 2030, representing a 14 percent compound annual growth rate over the period. As the region's e-commerce sector expands at a rapid pace, Chinese companies are joining forces with local businesses to deliver more convenient online shopping experiences. Their contributions range from upgrading technology platforms and innovating logistics systems to cultivating local talent, significantly enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Southeast Asia's e-commerce industry. On Lazada, a top e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, a store specializing in bamboo-woven products and rattan furniture enjoys a 95 percent positive rating. Particularly popular among Thai customers, the shop receives praise in Thai, English and other languages for its prompt delivery, secure packaging, and high product quality. The store is operated by Yu Le, a native of southwest China's Yunnan province. A Thai-language major at university, Yu relocated to Thailand after graduation to start her business. "I've been running this company for over four years. We have 26 employees managing live-streaming, customer service, packaging, and warehouse operations," Yu explained. The warehouse, located in Samut Sakhon province, more than an hour from downtown Bangkok, enables next-day delivery for customers in the capital. With nearly 700 million people, a significant proportion of them young, and internet penetration exceeding 70 percent in most countries, Southeast Asia is one of the most promising e-commerce markets worldwide. Lazada and Shopee are the region's leading e-commerce platforms, while Tokopedia and TikTok are rapidly gaining influence. In 2016, a Chinese company acquired Lazada, undertaking a comprehensive technological upgrade, injecting capital and introducing new talent to strengthen the platform. In October last year, Lazada unveiled an AI-powered recommendation system that analyzes users' past purchases to offer smart recommendations and virtual product trials, along with an AI shopping assistant for personalized guidance. "The online shopping habits of Thai consumers have changed dramatically in recent years, with e-commerce taking an ever-larger share of spending," said Yu, adding that the market still holds enormous growth potential. At 7 a.m. in Klang, Selangor state, Malaysia, the warehouse of JINGDONG Logistics, the logistics arm of Chinese e-commerce giant JD. com, is already bustling with activity. "These building block toys are heading to a shopping mall in Penang today and will go straight onto the shelves," said William Oey, country manager of JD Logistics in Malaysia. "We supply both businesses and individual customers across Southeast Asia, with orders placed before 2 p.m. typically shipped the same day," said Oey. Oey, an Indonesian who lived in China for more than a decade, said the company aims to replicate China's speed and efficiency in Southeast Asia. "In China, consumers often receive their orders the next day. We want to offer the same experience here." To boost efficiency and accuracy, JD Logistics has introduced automated warehousing for packaging and sorting. At the facility, incoming goods are placed on a smart weighing station equipped with barcode scanning and volumetric measurement systems, which instantly record the item's weight, dimensions, and volume, streamlining operations. Last year, the company's business volume in Southeast Asia more than doubled. As an increasing number of young Southeast Asians enter the e-commerce industry, Chinese companies and universities are investing in local talent development, injecting robust momentum into the sector's sustainable growth. In 2022, the College of Arts, Media and Technology at Thailand's Chiang Mai University, together with its Confucius Institute, launched a joint master's program on China-Thailand cross-border e-commerce. The program received support from the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Special Fund, projects under a program called "Digital Entrepreneurship Support," and the Thailand 4.0 development strategy. "The program has helped train digital professionals and is paving the way for the development of more startups and e-commerce platforms," said Danaitun Pongpatcharatorntep, deputy dean of the college. Zunyi Normal University in southwest China's Guizhou province has also established a cross-border e-commerce training center in cooperation with industry partners. The facility is equipped with eight live-streaming studios targeting markets such as Vietnam and Thailand. Through the China-Laos e-commerce talent development program, Laotian student Wang Yunlan, known by her Chinese name, has become a live-streaming host at the center after more than a year of training. "I often host live-streaming sessions here in my spare time. It not only increases my income but also deepens my understanding of cross-border e-commerce. My skills have improved a lot, giving me a strong foundation for future career opportunities and entrepreneurship," she said. (Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun) This is how Brazil, who also has 50% US tariffs like India, is countering Trump's levies Arindam Roy USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Trump hosts Putin in Alaska: Historic land once claimed by Russia becomes stage for high-stakes summit Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept TrumpPakistan ties warm, but doubts linger: Here's why the world isnt buying the bonhomie Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Trump says 25% chance Alaska meeting with Putin could fail, plays down breakthrough hopes from Friday summit Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept US revokes visas of Brazilian officials over ties to Cuba's 'forced labor' medical program Pragya Trivedi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why Israels army chief is clashing with political leaders over Gaza City plans and military promotions Pragya Trivedi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why Trumps Alaska meeting with Putin could weaken US leverage in the Ukraine war Pragya Trivedi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept More than 100 international organizations denounced Thursday that Israel is not allowing them to deliver their humanitarian aid shipments to Gaza, citing new registration rules approved this year that require NGOs to share information deemed sensitive. Meanwhile, tons of food, medicine, and vital supplies are stored across the border, just a few kilometers from where two million Palestinians are suffering from extreme hunger. Since early March, Israeli authorities have rejected dozens of applications from various NGOs, claiming they are not authorized to deliver aid. Refusals may be based on vague and politicized criteria, such as the alleged delegitimization of the State of Israel, the organizations say. In July alone, more than 60 applications were denied with this justification, adds the statement signed by Action Against Hunger, ActionAid International, Anera, the Assembly for Peace Cooperation, Care, Caritas, Medecins du Monde, Doctors Without Borders, Oxfam, Plan International, and Save the Children, among others. In March, Israel approved new registration regulations requiring these organizations to provide details of their private donors, lists of their Palestinian staff, and other confidential information. The organizations believe this bureaucratic process is driven by a desire to control them and fear being banned from continuing to work in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. Some have even received a seven-day ultimatum to provide lists of their Palestinian staff. NGOs have made it clear that sharing such data is illegal, incompatible with humanitarian principles, and endangers their staff. According to the UN, more than 500 humanitarian workers have been killed in Gaza since October 2023. They also point out that these new rules are incompatible with established international law as they consolidate Israels control of the occupied Palestinian territory. This registration process signals to international NGOs that their ability to operate could be conditioned by losing their independence and their ability to express themselves, says Bushra Khalidi, an Oxfam Intermon representative in Palestine. This organization has assets worth $2.5 million, whose entry into Gaza has been blocked by Israel. Another signatory, the U.S.-based Anera, estimates it has shipments worth $7 million waiting at the gates of Gaza. Blocking this aid leaves hospitals without basic supplies, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly dying of hunger and preventable diseases, and humanitarian workers going to work on empty stomachs, the NGOs denounce. Last Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied that his country was trying to starve the two million inhabitants of Gaza, although he did admit that there had been a policy of deprivation of food. He therefore announced that the volume of humanitarian aid entering the Strip would increase, primarily thanks to humanitarian flights and new distribution points run by the controversial Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a fund promoted by Israel with U.S. support to distribute food in Gaza. The organizations suspect that these obstacles to their work are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the GHF. According to the UN, at least 859 people have died since the end of May near its four food distribution points in the Gaza Strip, most of them shot by Israeli soldiers or security agents supporting them. The militarized food distribution program has turned famine into a weapon and increased suffering, denounces Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa, emergency coordinator for Doctors Without Borders (MSF) in Gaza. According to the UN, virtually the entire population in the Strip has been starving for months, with more than a third going without food for days. Currently, more than 62,000 tons of life-saving aid are needed per month, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). The NGOs that signed the statement urge the international community to pressure Israel to end the use of aid as another tool in this war, to stop forcing them to share sensitive information, and to immediately open all border crossings. The answer to save lives and humanity from complicity in an orchestrated mass famine is to open all borders, permanently, to the thousands of trucks, millions of meals and medical supplies, ready and waiting, urged Sean Carroll, president of Anera. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition The Bolivarian Revolutions top leadership has been put on alert following the U.S. governments announcement that it has doubled the reward for anyone offering information leading to the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The Bolivarian leader has been identified by Washington as the alleged leader of the Cartel of the Suns, a criminal organization headed by senior military personnel that Washington claims is resonsible for trafficking drugs to the United States. On Wednesday, the State Department reported that it had seized approximately $700 million in Maduro-related assets. The countrys public powers, all controlled by the tentacles of Chavismo, issued a series of statements in solidarity with Maduro, defending him and denying the accusations. Also, in a network broadcast, as had already occurred in January of this year on the eve of his new inauguration as president, all members of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces, including the Presidential Honor Guard and the General Directorate of Military Counterintelligence, came out in defense of the president. The televised statements in support of Maduros military-police-popular fusion included the Bolivarian Intelligence Service, the Bolivarian National Police, and the Judicial Police. The faces of Diosdado Cabello, Minister of the Interior and Justice, and Jorge Rodriguez, President of the National Assembly, were stern. Their tone was decisive and threatening. Cabello denounced Monday the dismantling of terrorist cells, allegedly linked to the opposition, in Caracas and Maturin. The minister accuses opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and Ivan Simonovis, police chief and longtime enemy of Chavismo in exile, of being behind them. One of these groups, Cabello stated, intended to place an explosive device at the recently inaugurated Victory Monument of the Great Patriotic War against Nazism, in honor of the former Soviet Union, located near Plaza Venezuela, in a very central area of Caracas. Police checkpoints, strategic patrols, and open-air intelligence operations continue to operate on the streets of Caracas and the rest of the country, now reinforced. This Monday, the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) called for a rally of its members in Caracas in support of Maduro. Demonstration in support of Nicolas Maduro, Monday in Caracas. MIGUEL GUTIERREZ (EFE) Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil said Washingtons announcement offering $50 million for information leading to the arrest of Maduro, who the Donald Trump administration accuses of promoting international terrorism, is a political propaganda operation, which he called a joke. The most ridiculous smokescreen weve ever seen, he added. It is disrespectful to the intelligence of all of you, the generals present, who have judgment, who know the world, who have trained so hard, to simply claim that your commanders, that President Maduro, is involved in drug trafficking, said Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, surrounded by members of the High Command at a press conference. Padrino said such accusations constitute immorality and that the criminal gangs the Trump administration refers to as supporters or partners of the Bolivarian Revolution (such as Tren de Aragua) are completely dismantled in the country. Finally, after three days of silence, Maduro responded to the United States. I am a man of peace, he declared on his television program. Leave the quiet one alone. I say to the imperialists: dont dare, because the response could be the beginning of the end of the American empire. On this occasion, an evidently irritated Cabello placed particular emphasis on his statements to make the audience understand that he is not playing games with the accusations. He said the Machado-Simonovis alliance is linked to criminal and drug trafficking groups associated with the Colombian oligarchy, who have been planning to sow terror in the country, and that no one should be surprised by the names revealed in the ongoing investigations. There are people wondering whats going to happen, he commented. The only thing thats going to happen is that were going to screw them over. Opposition reaction Meanwhile, from hiding, Machado is redoubling her challenge to the government. Support for her cause from some but not all Washington hawks, particularly Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is evident. Determined to assert that the Chavista government is much weaker than widely believed, Machado expressed her immense gratitude to the Trump administration for doubling the reward for Maduros capture. I think things are going to move really quickly; the message has reached not only Maduro, but also the leaders close to him. Machado stated that the pressure will be so great that Maduro will be forced to forge an agreement to relinquish power and avoid capture. This is a scenario that observers in Venezuela consider, in principle, unlikely. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Serbian protesters are back on the streets as clashes with government loyalists escalate Serbian protesters are back on the streets as clashes with government loyalists escalate View Photo BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) Thousands of anti-government protesters returned to the streets in Serbia on Thursday after two days of clashes with loyalists of autocratic President Aleksandar Vucic and riot police that left dozens injured or detained. Police fired tear gas in at least two cities and numerous other incidents were reported throughout the country. In the northern city of Novi Sad, where the anti-Vucic revolt in Serbia started more than nine months ago, groups of young protesters shouted, He is finished, as they demolished the offices of the presidents ruling Serbian Progressive Party. The demonstrators broke windows on the partys downtown office and carried away some documents and pieces of furniture from inside. The police or Vucics supporters, who have guarded the office for months, where nowhere to be seen. In Belgrade, the Serbian capital, and in Novi Sad, police in the evening fired multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse the protesters who then moved to other locations in smaller groups. Protesters in a downtown Belgrade area at one point scrambled in panic, some tumbling to the ground as they tried to run away. Videos on social media showed riot police beating up some protesters and a footage showed an opposition politician, his head bandaged. Vucic told pro-government Informer television that the state will win as he announced a crackdown on anti-government protesters, accusing them of inciting violence and of being enemies of their own country. He reiterated earlier claims that the protests have been organized from abroad, offering no evidence. The unrest throughout Serbia this week marked a serious escalation in largely peaceful demonstrations led by Serbias university students that have shaken Vucics firm grip on power in the Balkan country. Rival groups on Wednesday hurled rock and bottles at each other amid clouds of smoke and chaos. An army security officer at the SNS party offices at one point fired his gun in the air, saying later he felt his life had been in danger. Interior Minister Ivica Dacic on Thursday said there were gatherings at some 90 locations in the country the previous evening. The Serbian president has faced accusations of stifling democratic freedoms and of allowing organized crime and corruption to flourish in the country that is a candidate for European Union membership. He denies those allegations. The EUs Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said the reports of violence were deeply concerning. Advancing on the EU path requires citizens can express their views freely and journalists can report without intimidation or attacks, Kos added on the social media platform X. Police officers on Wednesday formed a cordon around a makeshift camp of Vucics loyalists outside the presidency building downtown. Dacic, the interior minister, accused the protesters of attacking governing party loyalists. He said those who broke the law will be identified and sanctioned. University students posted on X to accuse the authorities of trying to provoke a civil war with the clashes at demonstrations. The rallies so far passed for the most part without incident even while drawing hundreds of thousands of people. Occasional violence in the past months mostly involved incidents between protesters and the police, rather than between rival groups. Police were guarding the regime loyalists who were throwing rocks and firing flares at the protesters, a post by the informal group, Students in Blockade, said. The account is run by students from across Serbia who have been protesting the government since late last year. Demonstrations started in November after a renovated train station canopy crashed in Novi Sad, killing 16 people and triggering accusations of corruption in state-run infrastructure projects. The protesters are demanding that Vucic call an early parliamentary election, which he has refused to do. Serbia is formally seeking EU membership, but Vucic has maintained strong ties with Russia and China. By JOVANA GEC Associated Press Mexico says 26 capos sent to US were requested by Trump administration, not part of tariff talks Mexico says 26 capos sent to US were requested by Trump administration, not part of tariff talks View Photo 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. 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. 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 Trumps 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 its 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. By FABIOLA SANCHEZ and MEGAN JANETSKY Associated Press A car accident in small-town Tennessee leads to US charges against a major Mexican drug operation View Photo WASHINGTON (AP) The investigation began years ago after two drug dealers got into a car accident in a small Tennessee town. What followed was a series of secret wiretaps, a shootout with police and the discovery of drugs hidden in a tractor trailer that would eventually lead federal investigators back to cartel leaders in Mexico. The investigation culminated with Justice Department indictments unsealed Thursday against three leaders and two high-ranking enforcers of the United Cartels, a leading rival of Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The U.S. government is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of United Cartels top leader, Juan Jose Farias Alvarez El Abuelo, or the grandfather along with multimillion-dollar rewards for the four others. All five are believed to be in Mexico. The cases, as outlined in court documents, provide a glimpse into how drugs produced by violent cartels in large labs in Mexico flow across the U.S. border and reach American streets. They also highlight the violent fallout that drug trafficking leaves in its path from the mountains of Mexico to small U.S. towns. These cases in particular serve as a powerful reminder of the insidious impacts that global cartels can have on our local American communities, Matthew Galeotti, acting assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Departments criminal division said in an interview with The Associated Press. The chain started with a violent cartel in Mexico and it ended with law enforcement being shot at in a small town. United Cartels is an umbrella organization made up of smaller cartels that have worked for different groups over time. It holds a fierce grip over the western state of Michoacan, Mexico, an area of economic interest to the United States because its avocado exports. United Cartels is not as widely known as Jalisco New Generation, but given its role as a prolific methamphetamine producer, it has become a top tier target for U.S. law enforcement. It was one of eight groups recently named foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration. A car crash and an abandoned protective case The case goes back to 2019, when two dealers got into a car accident near Rockwood, Tennessee, outside of Knoxville, according to a search warrant affidavit filed in court. While fleeing the scene of the crash, they threw a hardened protective case filled with meth behind a building before being caught by police, according to court documents. Authorities began investigating, using wiretaps, search warrants and surveillance to identify a man believed to be leading a major drug ring in the Atlanta area: Eladio Mendoza. The investigation into Mendozas suspected drug operation led law enforcement in early 2020 to a hotel near Atlanta. During their surveillance, authorities spotted a man leaving with a large Doritos bag. Troopers tried to stop the man after he drove from Georgia into Tennessee but he fled and fired an AK-style rifle at officers, hitting one in the leg before another trooper shot him. Inside the bag, police found meth and heroin, and identified him as a low-level dealer for Mendozas drug ring, court records say. Weeks later, authorities searched properties linked to Mendoza and seized phones. They discovered messages between Mendoza and a close associate of El Abuelo, the leader of United Cartels, that showed the drugs were coming from Mexico, according to the court records. On one of Mendozas properties, investigators found a tractor trailer that had crossed from Mexico days earlier. When they searched it, authorities seized 850 kilograms of meth hidden in the floor of the truck and discovered more drugs inside a bus and a home on the property, court papers say. Mendoza fled the U.S. a short time later and returned to Mexico, where he was killed by cartels leaders angry that U.S. authorities had seized their cash and drugs, according to prosecutors. Cartels are targeted with terrorist designations The case represents the latest effort by the Republican administration to turn up the pressure on cartels through not only indictments of the groups leaders but sanctions targeting their financial network. The Treasury Department is also bringing economic sanctions against the five defendants as well as the United Cartels as a group and a cartel under its umbrella, Los Viagras. We have to pursue these criminals up and down the chain to make sure that the end result doesnt result in violence and narcotics distribution on our streets, Galeotti said. In addition to El Abuelo, those facing U.S. indictments are Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, or Poncho, and Nicolas Sierra Santana or El Gordo, who authorities say lead smaller cartels under the United Cartels organization. The two other defendants are Edgar Orozco Cabadas or El Kamoni, who was communicating with Mendoza, and Luis Enrique Barragan Chavaz, or Wicho, who serves as Magallon second-in-command, according to authorities. The Trump administration has seen major cooperation from Mexico in recent months in turning over cartel leaders wanted by U.S. authorities. In February, Mexico sent the U.S. 29 drug cartel figures, including drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who was behind the killing of a U.S. DEA agent in 1985, to the U.S. And on Tuesday, the Mexican government transferred to American custody 26 additional cartel leaders and other high-ranking members, including a man charged in connection to the killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy. Were working with the Mexican authorities to pursue these individuals, Galeotti said. We continue to work proactively with them, and we expect that theyll be helpful with us in securing the presence of these individuals in United States courtrooms. _____ Associated Press writer Maria Verza in Mexico City contributed to this report. By ALANNA DURKIN RICHER Associated Press In President Donald Trumps hugs one week, bullets the next policy with Mexico, the surrender of drug lords serving sentences has become a safety valve. The transfer to the United States of another shipment of 26 cartel criminals imprisoned in Mexico comes just a week after the announcement of a purported executive order that would allow the U.S. to use its military to combat drug cartels in Latin America. Security policies seem to dance every day to the tune of Mexicos northern neighbor, from fentanyl seizures to the arrests of drug traffickers to the surrender of prisoners. With a crucial trade negotiation in the background, nothing indicates that the U.S. presidents demands will cease, nor that Mexico can impose limits. The question is whether Washington will settle for the surrender of drug lords or move toward another of the objectives Trump repeatedly mentions: politicians colluding with the cartels. Trump is waging a war of words against Mexico, dropping missiles from time to time and reaping the rewards shortly afterward. This bilateral relationship cant be described as cooperation, but rather as extortion, says security expert Carlos Perez Ricart. The new offering of prisoners, because it cant be called anything else, is preceded by reports of an invasion of Mexico or Venezuela it doesnt matter and Mexico responds to it to safeguard a greater good: its economic stability and the trade agreement, explains the international researcher. He warns of the paradox that results from these exchanges, which make Mexico increasingly weaker in the face of the hegemonic power, which acquires protected informants and a powerful tool to continue negotiating economic matters. Its a vicious cycle that will be difficult to escape. The surrender of drug lords, gratis et amore, ultimately proves Trump right, revealing one of Mexicos weakest flanks: its judicial system. President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged on occasion when mentioning the judges weaknesses in the face of drug trafficking power and as Secretary of State for Security Omar Garcia Harfuch has just done asserting that prisoners sent to the United States continued to commit crimes from prison and seek escape routes through the courts to lower security facilities or, directly, to obtain freedom through injunctions. The excuse offered is the public safety that Mexicans achieve by transporting convicted prisoners to the United States. The escape in mid-July of Zhi Dong Zhang, accused of money laundering and drug trafficking for the Sinaloa Cartel, has left difficult questions unanswered. Firstly, what was he doing under comfortable house arrest? Trump will also ask himself this question. And if they find him, it will only be natural for the U.S. president to claim him in the next shipment. Some argue that the flight of the Chinese national has hindered the signing of the security agreement, which was presented as imminent on August 1 but has yet to materialize. Although it is possible, says Perez Ricart, that the agreement is already being implemented even without a signature. He suggests that U.S. cooperation in arresting 27 individuals linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel on July 26 in Aguascalientes is an example of this. Real security policy does not always follow the agreements to the letter; there are gray areas, he says. But he believes that the asymmetry in relations between the two countries is one thing, and the relationship of dependence is another, something that has its culprits, and we must look for them 30 or 40 years ago, in the times of [former president Carlos] Salinas de Gortari. To further complicate matters, international security experts always point out that the United States is not a monolithic entity, but rather a complex network in which it is difficult to determine which measures come from the president, which from the DEA, the CIA, or the Pentagon different strategic interests that combine, says Perez Ricart. Raul Benitez Manaut gives the same warning to anyone tempted to think that only the whims of a president are at play here. In terms of security, the United States is triangular, serving three vertices: the fight against drug cartels, in which Mexico participates; the fight against money laundering, which the United States unilaterally addresses against companies and banks; and, most difficult for Mexico, the battle against narco-politicians, the security expert summarizes. In another week of crossfire, Trump accused Mexican authorities of maintaining intolerable alliances with drug traffickers and the government of being petrified by the power of cartel bosses. The policy of restraint in the face of the Republicans bravado sometimes forces Sheinbaum to swallow these lies and move forward for the greater good. But Trump is dropping clues about this supposed list of narco-politicians that no one knows about, but everyone is talking about: the withdrawal of visas to enter the United States is one of them. This recently occurred with the governor of Baja California, Pilar Avila, but its something that also happened, Manaut notes, to Manuel Bartlett, who was director general of the CFE (Federal Commission of Mexico) during the Lopez Obrador administration, among others, and who is linked to the case of the DEA agent murdered in Mexico in 1985, Kiki Camarena. Will there come a time when the United States isnt satisfied with drug traffickers and demands the heads of these politicians? For Perez Ricart, this will undoubtedly be the next step. I dont know how far theyll go; when you feed the monster, its heads grow, he affirms, but the greatest danger he sees is a possible military intervention with U.S. drones, which are also buzzing through the skies of Mexico: That would put the president in a very delicate situation, he asserts. And not only that, the fact of having to hand over politicians, something Benitez Manaut also has no doubt will happen sooner or later, could fracture the ruling party (Morena), because there are quite a few cases affecting it, he says. The one currently ongoing in Tabasco has hit hard at the head of one of Morenas heavyweights, the coordinator of the partys senators, Adan Augusto Lopez, who appointed a secretary of security in that state accused of being the leader of the local cartel La Barredora. Garcia Harfuch, Sheinbaums security strongman who must appease Trumps appetite, has recently presented some results against this criminal group. But nothing clears up the question: will this be enough, or will politicians follow the cartel bosses? Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Judge weighs whether Trump violated federal law by deploying National Guard to Los Angeles View Photo 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. 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. 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. Wednesdays 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 states 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. He said Guard members werent engaged in law enforcement and were just providing backup security for federal agents. If the purpose is the protection of law enforcement officers, it isnt law enforcement in the first place, he said. On top of that, theres the fact that a (presidents) 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. 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. 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. 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. By OLGA R. RODRIGUEZ Associated Press Firefighters make progress against fast-moving blaze along highway north of Los Angeles View Photo GORMAN, Calif. (AP) Firefighters with air support scrambled to control a wind-driven wildfire that erupted Thursday morning in hills along Interstate 5 in northwestern Los Angeles County, officials said. The King Fire, which broke out around 1 a.m., charred nearly a square mile (2.5 square kilometers) of tinder-dry brush in a lightly populated area about 60 miles (100 kilometers) north of downtown LA. An RV park was ordered to shelter in place and residents of remote homes were under evacuation warnings. The blaze was 40% contained as of the evening, the Angeles National Forest reported on the social platform X. The California Highway Patrol closed some highway lanes as crews battled flames that raced along hillsides before dawn. Off- and on-ramps were closed near Smokey Bear Road, along with several surrounding roads just north of Pyramid Lake in a mountainous area known for hiking and boating. The blaze is burning a few miles north of the Canyon Fire, which prompted evacuations, destroyed seven structures and injured three firefighters after breaking out Aug. 7. It was fully contained Thursday morning after charring more than 8 square miles (22 square kilometers) of LA and Ventura counties. Firefighters were also battling a blaze in northern Los Angeles County that ballooned to 400 acres (162 hectares) and resulted in one firefighter suffering a minor injury, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Hawk Fire was 6% contained Thursday evening and firefighters stopped its forward progress. Residents in the area around the fire in the small community of Acton were initially ordered to evacuate, but that was later downgraded, with officials telling them to be prepared to evacuate, according to the fire department. A recreation center in Palmdale was opened for people forced to leave their homes. The Gifford Fire, Californias largest blaze so far this year, has scorched nearly 207 square miles (536 square kilometers) of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties since erupting on Aug. 1. It was 41% contained on Thursday. Wildfire risk is elevated because Southern California has seen very little rain, drying out vegetation and making it ripe to burn, the National Weather Service for Los Angeles warned in a statement last week. Greek protesters rally against an Israeli cruise ship as EU unions express anger over Gaza View Photo PIRAEUS, Greece (AP) Riot police at Greeces largest port cordoned off an area around an Israeli cruise ship that arrived early Thursday to prevent several hundred union-backed protesters from approaching the vessel. Protests have been held on Greek islands and at mainland ports along the route of the Crown Iris and several of them have led to clashes with police. Unions in Greece and other European Union countries have become increasingly outspoken in their condemnation of Israel over widespread destruction and severe food shortages in Gaza. At the port of Piraeus, near Athens, demonstrators held flares and waved Palestinian flags behind a cordon formed with riot police buses. Protest organizers, citing online posts from travelers, said off-duty Israeli soldiers were among the passengers. They are unwanted here and have no business being here, protest organizer Markos Bekris said. The blood of innocent people is on their hands, and we should not welcome them. Many European governments have become more critical of Israel in recent weeks, and several unions have gone even further by expressing support for punitive measures. Last month, the European Trade Union Confederation called on the EU to suspend its trade-focused association agreement with Israel a move that would hurt the countrys exports to Europe that were worth 15.9 billion euros ($18.5 billion) last year. Belgiums largest trade union is encouraging members employed at Brussels airport to refuse to work on recently reopened flights to Tel Aviv. Members and workers who refuse to participate in normalizing our relations with the State of Israel will be fully supported by our organization, the CSC umbrella union said in a statement this week. We call on everyone to refuse to handle these flights. In a separate development, French officials have refused to comment on reports that the government has halted renewing work visas for some staff at Israeli airline El Al in France in an apparent spat over security checks. Greece is a popular holiday destination for Israelis. But the ongoing war in Gaza has triggered hundreds of anti-Israel protests in Athens and other Greek cities, as well as a political confrontation. Left-wing opposition parties are calling on the conservative government to halt commercial and broad military cooperation with Israel. Addressing the growing criticism, Israeli government officials have insisted it will not change their military objectives in Gaza. These include a comprehensive defeat of the Hamas militant group. ___ McNeil reported from Brussels. Derek Gatopoulos in Athens and John Leicester in Paris contributed. By SRDJAN NEDELJKOVIC and SAM McNEIL Associated Press Yves here. The article below looks at researchers who are taking a lessons learned approach to cancer, as in focusing on patients who markedly exceeded expectations, either in surviving cancer or not getting it at all. We have some readers known to be beating the odds on cancer, such as Tom Stone and Henry Moon Pie, and we hope there are others. Even so, combatting cancer is an ordeal, with the major treatments, chemo, radiation therapy and surgery, all debilitating while underway. And many survivors have to take immuno-suppressive drugs which are costly and pose their own risks. Being thin and not drinking help keep cancer at bay.although how far it is reasonable to go with personal austerity is an open question. Note that studies that find that lower BMI and fat levels are not positively correlated with lower all factor mortality are sus. It turns out that for women, lower BMI is correlated with higher respiratory disease rates. Why? The obvious reason: the skinnier women on average are or were smokers. Similarly, a severe illness (as in being bedridden) will lead to loss of muscle mass, which many older people never get back. Being feeble is a big negative for longevity, since it both increases fall risk and generally makes it hard to live independently. Being in a nursing home is not great for longevity either. By Frieda Klotz, a journalist based in Brussels, and a senior contributor to Undark. She covers culture, health, and reproductive medicine. Her writing has appeared in the Guardian, Irish Times, Al Jazeera America, Mosaic Science, and other outlets. Originally published at Undark The stomach pains had persisted for a couple of months when Yann Bizien, a business developer in the software industry who was 35 at the time, finally ended up in the emergency room at a hospital in Versailles, France. He had already seen his family doctor who prescribed antacid medication. But the true diagnosis, when it came, was devastating: Pancreatic cancer, which had spread to his liver. Bizien, a married father of a young child who exercised regularly and did not smoke, realized that if the disease followed its normal course, he would have just months to live. That was in 2017. Bizien embarked on the standard treatment for pancreatic cancer a grueling regimen of chemotherapy over a six-month period. He responded extremely well. I was like, in a warrior mode. Like, Okay, Im going to go for the treatments, he told Undark, speaking from his home outside Paris. And even if I have one chance, I take my chance. It hasnt been an easy path the cancer returned in 2021, necessitating further treatment and surgery but with most stage-four pancreatic cancer patients dying within a year of diagnosis, and just 1 percent living longer than five years, Bizien is a member of an infinitesimally small group of survivors, and hopes his experience could inform future treatments. Bizien provided tissue samples and clinical data for the Rosalind study, named after the scientist Rosalind Franklin who died of ovarian cancer at the age of 37. The project, which is funded by a private biotech company called Cure51 and assesses participants over a 24-month period, looks at those rare patients who live beyond the timespan expected for aggressive cancers that have high mortality rates and have seen few treatment advances in recent years, explained Thankamma Ajithkumar, a consultant clinical oncologist at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, who is leading the trial in the U.K. (Bizien began a job as Cure51s patients committee manager in November 2024, after he got involved in the study.) In any practice, we are always very keen to learn from our failures. Thats our human nature, said Ajithkumar. But we seldom go back and look at the successes. Particularly the successes that are unintentional. Historically, cancer research has probed the drivers of the diseases evolution. But some scientists, like Ajithkumar, are widening their scope to study patients who survive against the odds. Other researchers are exploring cancer avoidance in individuals who are high risk yet never develop cancer, or in unusually long-lived animals that have developed mechanisms to counteract cancer naturally. And an international funding group called Cancer Grand Challenges is offering up to $25 million to researchers studying cancer resistance, with shortlist finalists expected to be announced next month. In a world where prevention is becoming even more important, exploring why people dont get cancer as well as why they do, could give us a greater understanding of cancer initiation, and could potentially lead to new ways to think about cancer prevention, wrote Karen Vousden, a researcher at the Francis Crick Institute in London who also sits on the scientific board for Cancer Grand Challenges, in an email to Undark. Were not the first to ask the question in this way but its typically not studied as frequently as why do people develop the disease, she noted. This marks a shift in the world of cancer research, which has largely focused on discovering treatments rather than on prevention and control, said Stacy Wentworth, a radiation oncologist who writes the newsletter Cancer Culture. Why some people do better than others with treatment, or never get cancer despite an apparent high risk, often goes unexplained. If a patient asks her, My grandmother smoked three packs a day and ate bacon and fried eggs every day of her life, and lived until she was 95. Why does that happen? Wentworth said, Medicine doesnt have a good answer for that. For years< scientists have known that some mammals exhibit a surprising ability to avoid cancer. In recent decades, researchers have tried to figure out why and how humans could benefit by adapting those mechanisms. Vera Gorbunova, a biology professor at the University of Rochester, started to study the comparative biology of aging in the 2000s, publishing a paper that probed longevity and aging to explore why certain animal species may be more likely to develop cancers than others. Many people didnt take us seriously in the beginning, she said. But right now, it has changed dramatically. Major funding agencies now want to fund big initiatives to study cancer resistance, she added, such as the Grand Challenges funding call, for which her group has applied. Gorbunova has continued her focus on animals, and thinks certain creatures, such as bats, may hold some keys to developing novel cancer therapies in humans: Some bats live 30 or 40 years without developing cancer, she said. There are some reports of tumors, but these are very rare. In one recent study, Gorbunova and colleagues studied the wings of four of the longest-living bat species. The scientists found that the bats had high activity levels of P53, a tumor-suppressing protein, which they posited could help them resist cancer, as well as unique immune activity. Gorbunova has also studied naked mole rats, blind mole rats, and whales, all of which have particularly long lives. No single mechanism enables cancer avoidance, she said different animals fend off the disease in different ways but all offer potential avenues for new cancer treatments in humans: What we are trying to do is to study all, you know, diverse clades of animals to understand all these strategies because this is not always the same strategy. Naked mole rats, for instance, excrete a goo called hyaluronic acid, which helps slow the growth of cancer cells and is often used in cosmetics. In that case, application in humans is already in sight. It is a long path until clinical approval of a drug, but we expect to at least have some early-stage trials, of the substance in cancer care in the next few years, she told Undark. While some researchers like Gorbunova continue to analyze animal models, others are focusing on humans to tease out another complex question: Why do patients in their 80s and 90s have lower rates of cancer, even though cancer is associated with aging? Clinicians agree that, generally, cancer is a disease of advancing years, occurring most frequently when people are in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and early 80s. That is when the host tissue becomes more hospitable for cancer development, said Tuomas Tammela, a cancer biologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Most cancers arise in cells that can quickly regenerate, Tammela told Undark. When lesions occur in younger people, they typically simmer for a few decades before erupting as a cancer in the age-range of 55 to early 80s. But once people are in their 80s, the number of new cases falls. Tammela suggested mutations that begin when people are already elderly are less likely to evolve to become cancerous because people in their ninth decade have fewer self-renewing cells that foster tumor growth. In a recent paper that examined lung tissue from young and elderly mice, both with and without cancer, and did the same in humans, Tammela and colleagues found that tumors were less likely to develop in older mice and people. For Tammela, a key message of his study was how important cancer prevention early in life should be. Its more of like a fertile soil for the tumor to take hold, for the mutations to be productive, when we are young, whereas later in life, you know, we might be a bit more cancer resistant. The idea that genetic mutations could cause cancer emerged in the mid-20th century. Three years ago, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine published a paper suggesting that some people might be better able to repair this damage than others. Jan Vijg, a professor and chair of genetics at the school, and one of the papers authors, says that makes sense because only a fraction of smokers end up with lung cancer. The team brushed the airways of 33 individuals between the ages of 11 and 86, then sequenced the genomes of the cells in search of mutations. Fourteen of the participants had never smoked and 19 were smokers. After about 23 smoking-pack years (a measure based on the idea of smoking one pack a day for a year), the rate of mutation stalled and then remained constant, suggesting that some people might be better able to repair the harm wrought by cigarettes than others. Simon Spivack, one of Vijgs collaborators and professor of medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, noted that the studys sample size was small, only including about seven heavy smokers, and that he and his colleagues need to explore the issue further to ensure the finding wasnt just a fluke. And heavy smoking is still harmful. In fact, Vijg said, despite slower mutations, the heavy smokers all eventually developed cancer it just took until old age. While some cancers, like breast cancer, have seen significant progress in the number of therapies available, practitioners acknowledge that the treatment for others has stalled. The chemotherapy regimen that Bizien, the French business-developer, underwent was similar to therapy patients would have received three decades ago, he told Undark. The impact on his health was so severe, and the results at first so ambiguous, that his doctors asked whether he wanted to continue or abandon treatment. He thought it was worth persisting. Bizien tried to join a clinical trial to test an experimental drug but did not meet the criteria. There were no treatment breakthroughs, never a message of hope, nothing new, nothing interesting, he said. So it was very hard. After surgery and more rounds of chemo, Bizien was declared in remission in 2022. When his oncologist suggested that he participate in the Rosalind study which would analyze clinical data and tumor tissue samples between long-term survivors and similar individuals who died Bizien was keen to help others who might find themselves the same situation in the future. The project aims to understand the genetic makeup of survivors of fast-moving cancers, with a focus on three aggressive forms pancreatic cancer, metastatic small cell lung cancer, and a rare brain cancer called glioblastoma IDH wild type. The study focuses on those in part because of its founders personal experience. Nicolas Wolikow, the CEO and co-founder of Cure51, the biotechnology company underwriting the study, lost his mother to small cell lung cancer three years ago and his father currently has blood cancer, he told Undark. Participants fall into cohorts of those who appeared to recover after a single treatment, those who required multiple interventions, and those who did not make it. For Bizien, participation was relatively easy; he gave the hospital permission to use his tumor samples and data. By establishing a database of the biology of patients who have survived aggressive cancers, the studys leaders hope their research will develop targets for treatment, and help refine the therapies available so that they are less toxic. According to Wolikow, so far, more than 10 targets have been identified, but he said he isnt ready to share them with media. Once the databank for these three cancers is in place, they will move to another set of highly invasive cancers. We started with the three most aggressive, but unfortunately, theres a lot of very aggressive cancers ovarian, stomach, bladder, triple-negative breast, a lot, a lot, unfortunately, Wolikow said. Wentworth, the radiation oncologist, described the approach as innovative but questioned the projects timeframe. She pointed to a couple of other studies of glioblastoma, which faced challenges because after three to five years, few survivors were left. The Rosalind Studys 24-month timeframe for recruiting patients is very optimistic given the patient population that they are studying, she wrote by email. About a decade ago, NIH embarked on a similar program to look at exceptional response. Its conclusions were tentative. Of 520 initial cases, six patients had mutations that could inform treatment, the study stated. How patients respond to treatment can seem unpredictable, even to their doctors. Ajithkumar, the Cambridge oncologist, noted that he treats those who recover just the same way as those who do not. They are usually very grateful, he said. But I know that I havent done anything exceptional, even for them, he added. I gave them the treatment I gave to the other 95 percent. Shortly after he was diagnosed, Bizien quit his job and spent time with his family. He now has a second daughter and late last year he started his new job, joining the patient committee of Cure51. He feels very fortunate, he said. When you try to put numbers and you see that you have a 1.8 percent of survival rates, that means that you are very lucky, he said, And you can compare, how am I lucky, compared to someone crossing the roads or someone hit by the lightning. And yet, he didnt have any risk factors, so why did the cancer develop? I felt very lucky and also I ask myself: Why? Gustavo Petro, Colombias president, has called for an emergency meeting of Latin American countries to respond to a threat by the United States. He is referring to the executive order supposedly signed by Trump and reported by The New York Times, which asks the Pentagon to ready the army for military interventions against drug cartels in the region. This order was reported the day after Pam Bondi announced a reward of $50 million for information leading to the arrest of Venezuelas president, Nicolas Maduro. She accused him of being one of the largest drug traffickers in the world and a threat to U.S. national security and the leader of the supposed Cartel de los Soles with ties to the Tren de Aragua and the Sinaloa Cartel. This makes Maduro a legitimate target for the army, since Trump had previously labeled these drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Both Petro and Maduro had accused Marco Rubio of plotting terrorist attacks against Venezuela. Of course, it could be argued that both were trying to deflect attention from internal problems and that the U.S. is an easy target. It is no secret that the United States has aimed at regime change in Venezuela since at least Hugo Chavez came to power, who survived a coup in 2002. After the 2018 election, the U.S. tried to push Juan Guaido as president, while after the 2024 election it tried to push the frontman of Corina Machado, Edmundo Gonzalez. Marco Rubio confirmed that the Trump administrations designation of the Cartel de los Soles, which it claims is led by Maduro, as a terrorist organization would legitimize U.S. military operations in Venezuela If the U.S. wanted to intervene militarily in Venezuela, it has already built up the case. However, as Nick has elaborated in this post, Venezuela might not be the country to which Trumps order is directedat least not in the short termbut rather Mexico. Nick argues that full-blown military action against Mexico is not probable, but that the threat of a U.S. unilateral military action against drug cartels is growing and perhaps imminent. A full military action against Venezuela or Mexico is not expected in the short term, but perhaps that is not the purpose of Trumps order. The combination of labeling drug cartels as terrorist organizations and ordering the army to be ready for a possible intervention against them could be used, in due course, against most countries in Latin America. Thats why Petro is calling for a regional meeting to respond to what he says is a threat to all. This meeting will probably not happen, and if it does, it will only be attended by Petros ideological allies, which are growing thin in the continent as the U.S., under Trump, redirects its attention to the applicability of the Monroe Doctrine in the region. It is not that it has ever abandoned it, but the need for it and the justification is changing. An example of this is the recently released U.S. State Department Human Rights report. In the report, the Trump administration asked to soften the critique of partners in the region, such as El Salvador, about which the report says that there are no credible reports of significant human rights abuses. On the other hand, it has ramped up criticism of Brazil, with whom the U.S. is currently involved in an escalating spiral of diplomatic conflict. Trump wants Brazil to drop the charge against ex-President Bolsonaro, who is accused of leading a coup conspiracy after losing elections. Lula has defied the U.S. and vowed not to submit to Trumps designs, which has led the U.S. president to impose 50% tariffs (with notable exceptions) and to apply sanctions on members of the judiciary. But the case is larger than Brazil. The Trump administration is seeking to ward off Chinese and Russian influence in the region and is doing so by lending full support to allies such as El Salvador, Argentina and Ecuadorwhere U.S. military bases might stage a comebackand going strong against countries that do not bow to its will, such as Petros Colombia, Venezuela, or Brazil. Brazil is a founding member of BRICS, and Lula has openly called for de-dollarization. For the U.S., making Brazil fall in line would serve as an example to others against defying U.S. hegemony in a region that it considers its sphere of influence. In asserting its influence, Trump is taking a different approach than previous administrations. Instead of using human rights and democratic measurements to justify its interventionism, he is returning to threats to national security from drug cartels and immigration. It is also readopting the policy of backing up authoritarian governments in the regionsuch as El Salvador or Ecuadoras long as they are servile to U.S. interests. Both policies have had terrible results in the past. As Nick points out, further militarizing the war on drugs is unlikely to hamper the flow of drugs; it just creates yet more cycles of violence. We have already seen this play out in Colombia and Mexico, and is currently playing out in Ecuador. And many of the past U.S.-backed dictatorial regimes in Latin America, such as Chile, Argentina or Brazil, were particularly brutal. This focus and change of attitude towards the region is driven by what Foreign Affairs magazine titled The Return of Sphere of Influence and argues that the concept of sphere of influence has been gaining traction since 1999, but especially after the economic crisis of 200809 and the Ukraine war, which could be argued marks the end of U.S. hegemony. The authors define spheres of influence as larger countries using their advantages in military force, economic leverage, and diplomacy to secure spheres of influencethat is, geographic areas over which a state exerts economic, military, and political control without necessarily exercising formal sovereignty. The subtitle of this articleWill Negotiations Over Ukraine Be a New Yalta Conference That Carves Up the World?becomes even more relevant with the upcoming TrumpPutin meeting in Alaska. The result of this meeting could herald what geopolitical analyst Alfredo Jalife calls the new tripolar order. The tripolar order is a G3 composed of China, Russia and the U.S. each with a sphere of influence. Although there are other analysts, such as Andrew Korybko, who argue that Russia is trying to beat China to what he calls a New Detente with the U.S., which would normalise their relationships, would lessen Russias dependence on China and would allow the U.S. to pivot back to Asia to contain China. Regardless of the outcome, what seems to be emerging is that the end of the rules-based order, which is digging its own grave in Gaza, will be followed by a return to one based on different powers exerting influence over their regions. China, Russia and the U.S. are the obvious ones, but others, such as Turkey, Israel, India or Ethiopia are following suit. This development in international relations is, I suppose, expected after a hegemonic power loses grip. The power vacuum is filled by other actors. What remains to be seen is if these actors will behave in their spheres of influence similarly to how the U.S. does. I, personally, hold some hope that there will be some differences as Chinas way, for example, is less confrontational and more diplomatic, for now. However, I dont discard the possibility that this return to a world governed by regional powers, now aided by surveillance technology and control tools never experienced before, is not the previous stage before a further concentration and consolidation of power in fewer global actors. The U.S. has already signed agreements with Chile, Ecuador and Colombia to share biometric data. PS: Since writing this article, I have come across a few interesting developments. The GOP Ohio Senator endorsed by Trump has changed his discourse, stating that Maduros reign of terror is over and claiming that he will be out by the end of the year. At the same time, Edmundo Gonzalez has returned to the spotlight, claiming Venezuelas presidency from Spain, and Ecuadors President Noboa, following the U.S.s lead, has declared the alleged Clan de los Soles a terrorist organization. I still dont think a full-fledged U.S. military operation against Venezuela is likely, but a new attempt at regime change might be on the horizon. Another interesting development in the regionunrelated to Venezuela but involving the U.S.is that Vectus Global, Erik Princes security company, has signed a deal with Haitis economic elite to take over security in the country and collect taxes. I believe this deserves a separate article. Meet Maple: Former K-9 now beekeeper at MSU WKAR They led police on a wild L.A. car chase, then managed to get away. Who helped them escape? Los Angeles Times Our Culture is Addicted to Validation Freddie deBoer Mouse Farm Orion Magazine Climate/Environment Pandemics Pathogens accelerate features of human aging: A review of molecular mechanisms Aging Research Reviews. Commentary: 1/ BREAKING: Infections can be major drivers of Aging Processes, new PolyBio review paper delineates A new scientific review written by PolyBios core team challenges the long-held assumption that human aging unfolds in a sterile environment. The authors argue that lifelong pic.twitter.com/hhHFnPZtJ7 PolyBio (@polybioRF) August 13, 2025 SC state senator resigns after being diagnosed with Alzheimers disease The State. After seeking medical care for what I believed were long-Covid symptoms, I was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease. Japan The Future that Never Was Unpopular Front China? Africa Syraqistan At least 100 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza since dawn, including at least 37 aid seekers, medical sources have told Al Jazeera. Among todays death toll, 61 were killed in Gaza City. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Gaza Civil Defense, https://t.co/uiUx0wutnL pic.twitter.com/AftF9AZHNg Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) August 13, 2025 By Netanyahus logic, the Holocaust never happened, because millions of Jews survived and it took six years. https://t.co/FI4L5SOBkt Afif Aqrabawi (@AjAqrabawi) August 13, 2025 Old Blighty European Disunion Iron Rhine strategic railway chugs back to life to counter Russia Politico New Not-So-Cold War Trump to present minerals deal to Putin in Alaska The Telegraph. Silly. Access to minerals in regions that are controlled by Russia and have voted to become part of Russia? Russia also not hurting for minerals: Perhaps the point of The Telegraph story: Involving Alaskan resources in a deal with Russia draws in clashing interests from various American businesses and factions. It increases the likelihood of resistance in the US itself Alexander Clarkson (@APHClarkson) August 13, 2025 The Caucasus South of the Border U.S. MQ-9 Drone Just Flew A Mission Deep Into Mexico The War Zone Spook Country Hundreds of Former Israeli Spies Are Working in Big Tech, Database Shows Drop Site Trump 2.0 Democrats en deshabille WHAT STANDS IN THE WAY OF ABUNDANCE IN HEALTHCARE? LPE Project Mamdani AI Police State Watch Healthcare? Imperial Collapse Watch This is, without exaggerating, one of the most extraordinary things a US Treasury Secretary ever said. It should be mandatory viewing for all citizens of US allies, Europeans first and foremost. What Bessent is saying is that the US will now treat US allies wealth as an pic.twitter.com/IdNFMW33P7 Arnaud Bertrand (@RnaudBertrand) August 13, 2025 Over 80 countries are now engaged in conflicts outside of their borders. Most since WW2. David Roth-Lindberg (@RothLindberg) August 13, 2025 98-Year-Old Pianist Who Survived World War II Determined to Keep Playing Schumanns Traumerei for Those Who Died Yomiuri Shimbun Accelerationists Groves of Academe Lumps of Cram LRB Class Warfare Threadbare 3 Quarks Daily Antidote du jour (via): See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. Yves here. Tom Neuburger continues his systematic coverage of how the US constitutional order is being revised to favor even more those at the top. I am stunned at the way the Trump-Putin summit is sucking the air supply out of reporting on Trumps continuing power grabs, which if anyone were paying attention, can be wielded against factions in the elites that fall out of line. See the treatment of top universities and the scientific establishment as examples. The latest is the Administration effort to take over local policing. That authority has been such an important bulwark that most commentators dont even think much about it. From Richard Kline in Progressively Losing in 2011, debunking the idea that progressives were structurally in a weak position: The Right is too strong. The oligarchy specifically and the Right in general are far less strong in American society apart from what their noise machines and bankroll flashing would make one think. The great bulk of the judiciary remains independent even if important higher appellate positions are tainted. Domestic policing is, by tradition and design, highly decentralized, with a good deal of local control, making overt police state actions difficult, visible, and highly unpopular (think TSA). While the military is a socially conservative society in itself, it is also an exceptionally depoliticized one, with civilian control an infrangible value. Popular voter commitment to the nominally more conservative political party has never been narrower or more fragile. Contrast the state of the US then with the latest Trump plans. From the Guardian in Trump says hell seek long-term control of DC police and signals hell target other cities next: Donald Trump said on Wednesday he would ask Congress for long-term control of Washington DCs police department and signaled he expected other Democratic-led cities to change their laws in response to his deployment of national guard troops and federal agents into the capital Were going to need a crime bill that were going to be putting in, and its going to pertain initially to DC, Trump said during a visit to the Kennedy Center performing arts venue in Washington. Were going to use it as a very positive example, and were going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days. He said he expected to propose the legislation very quickly, though the Senate and House of Representatives are out of session and not scheduled to return until 2 September. Trump alluded to other options for extending control of the police department, saying if its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress. The Libertarian Institute described another Trump scheme in Pentagon to Create Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force: The Department of Defense is planning to create a rapid response force of National Guard troops to quickly deploy to American cities where protests or unrest are occurring. On Tuesday, The Washington Post reported that it obtained documents showing the Pentagon is creating a Domestic Civil Disturbance Quick Reaction Force. The plan calls for 600 troops to be on standby at all times so they can deploy in as little as one hour, the outlet explained. 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. One hundred troops at each base would be on standby to deploy within an hour, while the entire quick force would begin operations within 12 hours. The National Guard will be equipped with weapons and riot gear, and the deployments will be limited to 90 days to prevent burnout among the troops. Recall also Klines remark about the military being depoliticized (except in its fealty to arms pork). Colonel Larry Wilkerson saw a dark side to Trumps bizarre birthday parade. He pointed out that those who participated had volunteered to do so. He saw that as a way to identify servicemembers who were particularly loyal to Trump and could be positioned to help Trump implemented orders that historically typical soldiers would refuse as illegal. By Thomas Neuburger. Originally published at Gods Spies The Next American Constitution is being written as we speak, and rather quickly at that. The situation is stark enough that weve started a series. Links to other posts on this subject can be found here. Today, Id like to look at one element a bipartisan one that defines the new arrangement our country is ruled by. That element is: elite immunity and absence of rule by law, and its already in place. I said this would be bipartisan. The absence of rule by law is a two-party problem. Were going to gore two cows at once in todays sacrifice. Part of this discussion will examine the Rights project to make sure a muscular (read, hard-core conservative) president has no real constraint on his acts. Another part will look at the way embedded elites can act with impunity when doing embedded elite business. If youre ready, read on. What Law Constrains the President? Apparently None. Weve grown ourselves a king. What more can be said? Hyacinthe Rigauds portrait of Louis the Grand Perchance AIs portrait of Donald the Bold It didnt happen quickly; it was a process, and as I say, very much a bipartisan one. Here, for example, is Al Gore joking away the theft of his own presidency by the Bush-partisan Supreme Court coup in 2001. He even gives a stand-ups bow to acknowledge his applause. An awful moment for the rule of law. Two Court Decisions that Immunized the King This is not hyperbole, this talk of a king. Lets look at two Supreme Court rulings through the eyes of a lawyer, Ed Walker. (You may know him as the writer Masaccio from Fire Dog Lake.) Those rulings are Trump v. United States and Trump v. CASA Inc. Walker writes this: The Anti-Democracy Project of John Roberts Trump v. CASA Inc., decided June 27, continues the personal project of John Roberts to enhance the power of the executive at the expense of the other two branches of government. It continues the work of Trump v. United States, where Roberts gave Trump almost unlimited power to ignore Congress as he sees fit. It follows his weakening of statutes he doesnt like, his refusal to allow Biden to exercise the authority given him by Congress, as in the student loan case, Biden v. Nebraska, and many other cases. [T]hese cases weaken the legislature and the judiciary while strengthening the President[.] These cases are big deals; they give legal cover to presidential illegality, a project that goes back decades to Richard Nixon. Weve crossed the Rubicon when it comes to elite freedom from laws. Unless a future Court reverses these rulings unlikely, right? the law on presidential immunity has been changed for good. Trump v. United States Regarding immunity from prosecution for presidential crimes, Walker points us to this summary, which tells us, in part, that according to Trump v. United States: Immunity is absolute with respect to a presidents exercise of his core Article II powers. Where the presidents power is shared with Congress, Precedent necessitates at least a presumptive immunity from criminal prosecution for a Presidents acts within the outer perimeter of his official responsibility.[T]he President [is] immune from prosecution for an official act unless the Government can show that applying a criminal prohibition to that act would pose no dangers of intrusion on the Executive Branch. In deciding whether an act is official or unofficial, courts cannot inquire into a presidents motives. Courts may not deem an action unofficial merely because it allegedly violates a generally applicable law. Theres a lot of focus on the last three points, but dont you read the first point as saying that the president has the right to break the law when he acts as president? It looks that way to me, and any president worth his power-hungry salt would push that right just as far as he possibly can. This makes, in other words, Richard Nixon correct, at least in regard Article II obligations. (Getting re-elected isnt an Article II duty yet so no salvation from Watergate for him. Still, were he looking for terrorists in that hotel, this Court would absolve him.) Trump v. CASA Inc. If the first case made sure the president can act lawlessly, in this case the Court keeps the courts from blocking him. Walker: This case is a government request for relief from nationwide injunctions barring enforcement of the obviously unconstitutional Trump executive order denying birthright citizenship to a large number of babies born here[.] The mechanism by which the Roberts Court let Trumps order stand is wonderfully described in Walkers piece. It leans on a specious point about English Common Law. (Search for Amy Coney Barrett says no and read forward from there.) But my main point is contained in Ketanji Brown Jacksons dissent. The mechanism the Roberts Court used to let Trump violate the Fourteenth Amendments Citizenship Clause is useful everywhere, against any law. The Roberts Court claims that lower courts cannot use injunctions to grant relief to nonparties to a dispute, and therefore cannot issue universal injunctions against the government. It works like this. The government denies Person A her Fourteenth Amendment rights or any rights anywhere granted so she goes to a lower court and seeks an injunction. The lower court can enjoin the government but only to provide relief for Person A. No one else gets relief. So if youre not Person A, the government is unconstrained until you yourself sue. This applies to everyone effected by the illegal action. A thousand affected, a thousand separate suits, each with a one-person-only injunction available. Thats monstrous. Jacksons dissent gets to the heart of the matter: The Courts decision to permit the Executive to violate the Constitution with respect to anyone who has not yet sued is an existential threat to the rule of law. How simple is that? How obviously true on its face? She continues: The Court has just endorse[d] the creation of a zone of lawlessness within which the Executive has the prerogative to take or leave the law as it wishes. A zone of lawlessness, enshrined by the law. A new world indeed. Conservatives Are Doing This Why? You may ask yourself, why would self-described conservatives do this? Dont they think someone of the opposite stripe, like a Sanders as wed like him to be, might use these same powers, which are clearly breathtakingly broad? Ill offer an answer, to which you might disagree: I think conservatives know that the Money that enables their deeds disables their opponents. Can you see a President Schumer using Trumps new power? I dont see him rolling it back, and I also dont see him going so far off his Wall Street leash as to use it himself. What about a President Sanders, or anyone who might threaten the elite power game? You saw what happened to Bernie, twice in a row, with Obama leading the charge as soon as he got close. Thanks to the Democrats, his campaign was dead by March. My cynical side wonders, does an anti-elite Democrat have to make an elite-friendly deal to get past the primary at all? We may soon find out. Its All of Them, Isnt It I promised bipartisan rule-of-law lawlessness. So two more examples. James Clapper DNI James Clapper lied under oath before Congress. The year is 2013. The date is March 12. The president is Barack Obama. The question comes from Ron Wyden. Its a Democratic Party tale from stem to stern. Q: Does the NSA collect any kind of data at all on millions or hundreds of millions of Americans? A: No, sir. One month later, to Clappers surprise this happened: Clappers claim to Congress was undermined by an April order of the secretive Fisa court instructing Verizon to turn over phone records on millions of Americans to the National Security Agency. Published by the Guardian, the order explicitly authorized the NSA to collect so-called metadata between the United States and abroad; or wholly within the United States, including local telephone calls. An NSA data-mining program, called Boundless Informant and also revealed by the Guardian, further allows the NSA to sort its collected communications by country of origin. [emphasis added] Boundless Informant is a little too on-the-nose, wouldnt you say? So was Clapper called back to Congress? No. Was he arrested? No. He evenadmitted he lied. In a June interview with Andrea Mitchell, Clapper said: I responded in what I thought was the most truthful, or least untruthful manner, by saying no. Yet despite being publicly excoriated for perjury, the chair of the Intelligence Committee, Democrat Dianne Feinstein, said, There is no more direct or honest person than Jim Clapper. He was doing his embedded elite job spying on Americans and just like that, immunity conferred and we move on. Adam Schiff This one may trouble some of the anti-Trump crowd, but several things can be true at the same time. Trump can be running strong in the race for worst president ever; and elites can also do deeply illegal things to help make him fail. This story involves former Rep. Adam Schiff. Below is part of an FBI report in which a whistleblower from the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence made damning declarations. (Note: As the U marking indicates, this is an Unclassified document.) Plain text (emphasis mine): [NAME] was called to an all-staff meeting by SCHIFF. 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. [NAME] stated this would be illegal and, upon hearing his concerns, unnamed members of the meeting reassured [NAME] that they would not be caught leaking classified information. Yes, this is about Schiff, a hero to many; and yes, its Russiagate stuff, which is now being shushed as either old news or a blatant Epstein distraction. But what if the report is true? Leaking classified information is a criminal offense. Is this how we want to deal with a problematic, yet duly elected president? If so, what does that say about our next new Constitution? About how power is transferred? About who can, with impunity, annul a legal election after the oath of office is administered? Imagine a President Sanders (the one in our minds). What if he somehow won and, say, Clapper, Schumer and their friends wanted him out. What post-election tools do they now have? Food for thought, say I. This article is from a two-part cover story on homeless outreach in Nashville. Read the rest here. In May, April Calvin sat in the Metro Council chambers for an annual budget hearing. Her presentation on behalf of Metros Office of Homeless Services, which Calvin has led since 2023 successfully secured more than $5 million in additional funding for the department, nearly doubling its budget for 2026. At the same time, the department has spent three years stewarding $50 million in American Rescue Plan dollars, struggling to allocate and spend chunks of the money dedicated to addressing homelessness by former Mayor John Cooper in 2022. Another $35 million has provided 90 permanent supportive housing units at Strobel House, a city-owned downtown residential center that just celebrated a year of operation. City to Clear Old Tent City Residents plan for next steps as police and social workers manage a 60-day countdown at large downtown encampment Judged by its financial commitments, Nashville has made a serious effort in recent years to address homelessness. Mayor Freddie OConnell himself sponsored the legislation to create the stand-alone Office of Homeless Services in 2022 as a downtown councilmember, expanding on OHS predecessor, the now-defunct Metro Homeless Impact Division. Former encampments at Brookmeade Park, Old Tent City and Nissan Stadium made headlines as the city cleared out residents and fortified the sites against resettlement. Many councilmembers say its the number one issue they hear about from constituents, who bring up visible homelessness in cities like Los Angeles and Portland, Ore., as cautionary tales about Nashvilles future. But the city has not clearly returned results commensurate with all its effort, money and attention. Calls to replace Calvin and overhaul the Office of Homeless Services have grown louder, echoed by councilmembers like District 16s Ginny Welsch. Metro has an obligation to provide for all of our citizens, and these people are our citizens, Welsch tells the Scene. We dedicated a massive amount of money for this, and OHS has shown again and again they are not up to this task. It is very obvious that the management at OHS is incompetent, and April Calvin has destroyed and undermined trust in the community. Relationships between Metro and the vast network of nonprofits and volunteers addressing homelessness in Nashville have deteriorated sharply over the past year. Scrutiny about OHS has even produced a citizen effort to publicly audit the citys decision-making around homeless services, led by former Metro employee Mike Lacy, with background help from some of the same service providers meant to work with OHS. The scant discussion forum on the OHS Community Audit webpage even drew a comment from Lisa Avrit director of finance at Open Table, the nonprofit most at odds with Calvin. Public records requests, some fulfilled after persistent correspondence with city attorneys, have given Lacy a window into OHS hectic year. Lacy worked for the citys former Office of Community Safety a Cooper-era initiative until November 2023, when it was shuffled to the Metro Department of Health. (Lacy says it was eliminated under OConnell.) When it was announced that Old Tent City would be closed, people sent out a letter that this was against best practices for closing encampments, says Lacy of the downtown-area encampment, which the city ultimately cleared in early June. Federal guidelines emphasize shared decision-making, thorough engagement and varied resources to address the needs of unhoused people before camp closures, a process that Metro attempted over 60 days between April and June. Lacy published his analysis related to the impending closing in an acerbic Substack post on May 18. That began the most serious research Ive ever done probably a lot more work than my college thesis. OHS is working quite well, but its job is not what people think it is. From what I can tell, its achieving its goal of removing visible homelessness by any means necessary. They just want to get people out of places as quickly as possible so they cant be seen. Lacys research particularly scrutinizes Calvin for what he characterizes as mismanagement of the Strobel House operating contract, resulting in retroactive service payments that went $500,000 over budget. In a July 11 email to councilmembers, Calvin explained that OHS was still in the process of finalizing a Strobel House contract but did not deny the overrun. The extent of homelessness in Nashville is difficult to quantify but easy to see. Visible homelessness is the human cost of Nashvilles housing shortage and rising cost of living. Housing first refrains aim to remind anyone paying attention that creating more affordable places to live will be the citys only route out of worsening homelessness. People on street corners asking for help, transporting belongings or selling Contributor newspapers is the extent of most housed residents daily contact with unhoused Nashvillians an impression that has not noticeably been alleviated in recent years. The citys annual point-in-time count aims to capture the number of any unhoused people living sheltered or unsheltered on a given night in January. Its an imprecise statistic for a complex problem (and doesnt touch on its complex causes), but it serves as the basis for national statistics, which continue to show an increase in homelessness since 2020. Nashvilles 2025 PIT count, conducted on Jan. 23, showed 2,180 people experiencing homelessness. This is up from 2,094 last year and 2,129 in 2023. Calvin opened the citys first annual State of Homelessness Symposium with a generous round of thank-yous and acknowledgments before cryptically praising her colleagues for drowning out the news and fake news and holding tension from the citys fiery, passionate service providers. She expertly navigates the Metro lexicon familiar to anyone who has spent time with city bureaucrats, filling her addresses with milestones and benchmarks, reporting countable metrics, recapping committees and subcommittees, accepting accolades and acknowledging historic firsts on behalf of her office. With thousands of people currently facing dire conditions living outside in Nashville, providers tell the Scene that Calvins rosiness is its own kind of tone-deaf denial. Knowing that for every one person thats housed, our data shows that three people are entering homelessness, Calvin stated at the June symposium. Having a point-in-time count thats trending around the same, and not drastically increasing, I believe is a win. I do want to move on to offer hope, because the data is hopeful for me. The funding is even more hopeful. +3 Metro Struggles to Lead Nashvilles Coalition Addressing Homelessness City, nonprofit providers and unhoused people navigate distrust as Metro fences off downtown encampment After several days of the Scene attempting to schedule a time to speak directly with OHS, the departments public information officer, Demetris Chaney, told the Scene that she and Calvin were unable to do an interview. They instead offered a written statement. Over the past year, the Nashville Office of Homeless Services (OHS), in partnership with Metro Government and more than 47 community agencies, has made meaningful progress in addressing homelessness through coordinated housing efforts, outreach, and supportive services, reads the statement, which goes on to tout the opening of the Strobel House and the citys encampment strategy. OHS remains committed to advocating for our unhoused Nashville neighbors and supporting the vital work of our community partners in building long-term, sustainable solutions to homelessness in Nashville. Mayor OConnell closed the June symposium with a Q&A alongside Chaney. OConnell helped draft the citys original homelessness strategy and was a fixture in the citys homelessness effort for years, including a stint chairing the Homelessness Planning Council, the 25-member governing board that oversees coordination between the city and providers. OConnell has so far not heeded detractors cries to clear house at OHS, reaffirming his confidence in Calvins leadership to the Scene this summer. In June, he too drew the rooms focus to a city struggling for progress. This has to be an uncomfortable conversation and series of conversations, because were not at that point as a city and community, OConnell told the room. Despite everything April said all of which is true it doesnt make this work easier, the solutions easier, the landscape of state and federal interaction with the ability to solve these problems easier. Were all challenged as we sit here today. The U.S. Embassy in Caracas, Venezuela, posted on its social media account Wednesday that U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi had announced the seizure of assets worth $700 million from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, including mansions, cars, planes, and jewelry. The post includes a brief excerpt from an interview with Bondi on the conservative Fox News channel, in which the attorney general explains the reasons for the seizure. This is organized crime, no different than the mafia, and Maduro-related assets are over $700 million in total, which we have already seized; yet, his reign of terror continues, Bondi explains in a clip of the interview posted on the networks website Wednesday. On August 7, Bondi offered a $50 million reward for the arrest of Maduro, whom Washington links to the Sinaloa Cartel and accuses of being one of the worlds biggest drug traffickers. A day later, President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. army to combat foreign cartels, potentially also operating overseas, resurrecting the ghost of the interventionist Monroe Doctrine, a notorious memory in Latin America. These assets [Maduros] include two multi-million-dollar jets, the attorney general continued. Multiple homes, a mansion in the Dominican [Republic], multiple multi-million-dollar homes in Florida, a horse farm, cars nine vehicles, I believe millions of dollars in jewelry and cash. Yet, this organized crime operation continues to function, Bondi concludes in the interview, intended to redouble the pressure on the Chavista regime. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition This article is from a two-part cover story on homeless outreach in Nashville. Read the rest here. Robert thought he had secured his family a Nashville apartment, but when he arrived in town from Oklahoma, someone else was already living there. He had been scammed, he says. And so Robert, his adult son, his teenage daughter and the family dog spent nine weeks living in a Dodge Durango until Robert was able to find some help. About 24 hours after reaching out to Safe Haven Family Shelter, Robert and his family had moved into a motel room. A few months later, they got an apartment. Its a two-bedroom, but we make it work, says Robert. (Save Haven asked that the Scene use only his first name.) Safe Haven has been helping families like Roberts since 2003 even longer if you count the legacies of the two shelters that merged to form the nonprofit, Safe Haven Shelter and the Nashville Family Shelter. Safe Haven uses a rapid rehousing program to move families as quickly as possible into housing and then provide support and guidance in the months following their move-in date. After a family arrives at Safe Haven, the nonprofit finds room for them at a partnering motel or hotel while a case manager and a housing specialist work with them. The only requirement for Safe Havens help, says CEO Drew Freeman, is that the family includes a child. While the goal of rapid rehousing is to secure a new home within 30 days, case manager Tory Ross notes that every client is different. Ive had people where its taken two weeks from the day we put them in a hotel to six months to get in an actual apartment or house, she says. It all depends on their income or their background, if they have any criminal charges, or different things like that. Once housing is located, Safe Haven helps with rental assistance for the first few months, and the case manager continues to work with the family for up to nine months to figure out what they need to stay in their new home. It could be money management, they may need to start working on budgeting, says Ross. They may need to find a new job. Maybe its mental health services they need to be connected to it could be anything. Ross says the nonprofit even helps parents with their childrens birthdays, providing a gift and a birthday cake. Freeman adds that the nonprofit does this discreetly, so parents can take ownership of the celebration. We dont ever want to come in as saviors, Freeman says, adding that its important children see their parents, and not Safe Haven staff, as the reason for conditions improving. Increasing household income is also part of the goal, especially with Nashville rents so much higher than they were before the pandemic. If youre not making at least 20 bucks an hour right now, its very hard to make it, says Robert. (To get specific, MITs living wage calculator says a single adult in Nashville needs to make $25 per hour to maintain a comfortable standard of living.) Roberts main line of work is setting up trade shows, but its a seasonal job. He works part-time gigs and cuts down trees in the off months, and notes that the latter is getting tougher now that hes 64. Robert isnt the only Safe Haven client trying to hold down work while maintaining housing. He even knows people from work who are going through similar struggles with homelessness. A 2021 study from the University of Chicago found that 53 percent of the sheltered homeless population had jobs, as did 40 percent of those unsheltered. A lot of the people you interact with in your daily life, you just never know which one of them are actually experiencing homelessness, says Freeman. Ross adds that people tend to think of family homelessness as just a single mother, but the nonprofit has seen single fathers as well as grandparents raising children. According to Metros Office of Homeless Services, there were 230 families, including 371 children, experiencing homelessness in March. A year prior, in March 2024, the OHS reported 359 unhoused families. Nationally, family homelessness saw a sharp rise from 2023 to 2024. Last year Safe Haven served 262 families, including 603 children, and rehoused 100 families. About 40 percent of the households that come to Safe Haven are fleeing some form of domestic violence. Federal funding cuts have hit the nonprofit a story thats echoed in industries including the arts and health care and thats reduced the number of families Safe Haven has been able to help in 2025. Freeman says Safe Haven also saw an influx of clients following the end of the national eviction moratorium in 2021, which had helped people remain in their homes during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of that, the supply of affordable homes remains inadequate. But Freeman is undaunted, and says community partners, including landlords, the Metro government and private businesses, remain vital to work Safe Haven does. Its going to take all of those, including the federal funds, to live out our mission, he says, which is to end family homelessness. Hannah Herner contributed reporting. Gerald Ginsburg Repertoire Prize The Gerald Ginsburg Repertoire Prize, in honor of composer Gerald Ginsburg, will award $1,000 to a student in the Post High School Classical categories who performs at least one of Ginsburgs compositions in the YouTube, semifinal or final rounds in the NATS National Student Auditions. The award is made possible through a $25,000 contribution from the Ginsburg Foundation to endow the prize, ensuring its continuation for years to come. An art song composed by Ginsberg fulfills the English Language Art Song requirement and/or fulfills the fourth additional selection requirement in the Upper NSA categories. NATS members may access the Ginsbergs scores in both PDF and Sibelius formats. About Gerald M. Ginsburg (19322019) Gerald M. Ginsburg (1932-2019) was a prolific composer who set hundreds of poems to music in his 50 years of artistic output. He was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on July 7, 1932. He earned a bachelors degree in composition from Oberlin and a masters degree in composition the Manhattan School of Music. He studied piano with Rudolph Ganz, Jack Radunsky, Dora Zaslavsky, and composition with Roy Harris and Ludmilla Ulehla. His compositions have been performed at Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, the New School, and the Kennedy Center, among many other venues. Ginsburgs signature contribution was a style of song he called Theater Lieder, which brought together the lyrical elements of musical theatre and classical art song structure. Following his debut at Carnegie Recital Hall in 1974, his career highlights included a premiere of song settings based on the work of Willa Cather at the Willa Cather Pioneer Memorial Spring Conference (Nebraska, 1979); original song settings of Paul Verlaine's poetry (Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, 1998); An American a Paris (Merkin Concert Hall, 2000); a Heinrich Heine Tribute entitled Aus Schmerzen zu Lieder-From Sorrows to Songs (Weill Recital Hall, 2003), and many programs of original music with the composer at the piano at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Chelsea, NYC. In 2017, to mark his 85th birthday, Ginsburgs life and music was celebrated in a concert The Music of Words, presented by Sounds of the City in Manhattan. An endlessly curious and evolving artist, Ginsburgs primary aim was to celebrate the beauty of the world and bring enjoyment to his audiences. Ginsburg passed away in New York City on April 12, 2019. In his final years, he envisioned The Herman, Rebecca, and Gerald Ginsburg Foundation (named after his parents) as a private, nonprofit foundation dedicated to promoting and disseminating the music to which he dedicated his life. An album of newly orchestrated songs was released on the PS Classics label in 2024 with the title Parting Gift: The Songs of Gerald Ginsburg. For more information about the Herman, Rebecca, and Gerald Ginsburg Foundation, please visit ginsburgfoundation.org. Ginsburg Repertoire Database This repertoire database offers 50 songs from Ginsburg's body of work, which includes around 150 songs in total. Additional songs will be added as they are engraved by the foundation until NATS houses the full collection. The Sibelius file format allows for easy transposition as needed. Performers can download the Sibelius score and use the program to transpose for their performance. *If you use the music in a concert, please send a courtesy note to the Ginsburg Foundation using their contact form.* NATS thanks the Ginsburg Foundation for their generous gift to endow the Gerald Ginsburg Repertoire Prize, as well as for providing permission to freely access his compositions. If you would like to make a voluntary donation to the Gerald Ginsburg Foundation, please contact the Foundation through their website. Ancient underwater city near Noahs Ark resting place challenges biblical timeline A submerged ruin in Turkey's Lake Van near Mount Ararat traditionally linked to Noah's Ark could challenge historical beliefs about the origins of the biblical flood narrative and ancient civilizations. The city submerged 85 feet deep, is theorized to have been engulfed by a massive flood 12,000 to 14,500 years ago, triggered by volcanic activity from Mount Nemrut during a period of extreme climate upheaval (Younger Dryas). The site features sophisticated stonework, a fortress, circular temples and a carved "Flower of Life" symbol a motif also found in South America hinting at a possible lost global civilization with shared architectural and cultural traits. While some archaeologists date the ruins to the Urartian era (around 3,000 years ago), independent researchers argue geological evidence points to a much older timeline. Future dives aim to uncover organic material for definitive dating. The discovery reframes the biblical flood story as potentially rooted in a real ancient catastrophe, with links to Babylonian maps and regional legends. It could reshape understanding of how myths and historical events intertwine. An ancient underwater city discovered beneath Turkey's Lake Van is poised to challenge long-held beliefs about the origins of the biblical story of Noah's Ark, and potentially rewrite humanity's understanding of ancient civilizations. The sprawling ruins located just 150 miles from Mount Ararat the traditional resting place of Noah's Ark have sparked a wave of excitement and controversy among archaeologists, historians and independent researchers. The underwater complex is submerged 85 feet below the lake's surface. (Related: Archaeologists discover boat-shaped mound that could be NOAHS ARK in Turkish ruins.) The ancient city under Lake Van's waters is believed to have been engulfed by a catastrophic flood between 12,000 and 14,500 years ago. Geological evidence suggests that the eruption of Mount Nemrut blocked the Mirat River, causing massive flooding during the Younger Dryas a period marked by extreme climate upheaval. Independent researcher Matt LaCroix discussed the discovery on the "Matt Beall Limitless" podcast. He argued that this disaster may have wiped out an advanced civilization, one that could have inspired the earliest versions of the Great Flood story. "As far as I'm aware, any civilizations in the last 6,000 years did not have the technological means to create the type of stonework we're seeing here," LaCroix stated. The underwater city, which spans more than half a mile, features a stone fortress flanked by circular temples with intricately carved masonry. A capstone engraved with a six-spoked "Flower of Life" symbol an ancient motif also found in Peru and Bolivia adds to the mystery. This shared symbolism, along with architectural similarities to megalithic sites like Sacsayhuaman, has led LaCroix to propose the existence of a long-lost global civilization. "The site resembles Peruvian masonry, with precisely angled stones forming triangular joints. It's beautiful and would have been perfectly carved," LaCroix explained. He believes that the shared architectural features, symbolic motifs and astronomical alignments across sites in Turkey, South America and Asia point to a connection that transcends geographical boundaries. A new perspective on the biblical story While the ruins were first discovered in 1997 by Turkish underwater filmmaker Tossen Salin, they have remained largely unknown to the public. Archaeologists have confirmed the existence of the structures but attribute them to the Urartian period around 3,000 years ago or even the medieval era. However, they acknowledge that the site has yet to be fully studied or definitively dated. LaCroix, however, contends that geological data tells a different story. Soil sampling and analysis of Mount Nemrut reveal evidence of a massive eruption around 12,000 years ago, which aligns with the timeline of the underwater city's submersion. The lakes water level was stable for millennia, until the explosion of Mount Nemrut changed everything. Because stone cannot be carbon-dated, researchers are hoping to find organic material, such as sediment layers or artifacts, to confirm the age of the ruins. However, collecting such evidence underwater poses significant challenges. LaCroix and an international dive team are preparing to explore the site in September using advanced imaging tools to map the ruins and gather more data. LaCroix emphasizes that his findings do not dismiss the biblical version of the flood story but rather reframe it in its historical and cultural context. "It's not that Lake Van would have had to have been 85 feet lower," he explained. "It would have had to have been more like 100 feet lower or more, because these ruins are at 85 feet deep." The discovery has already prompted a reevaluation of the biblical narrative and its possible origins. The Babylonian Map of the World, the oldest known map, marks the Ararat region near Lake Van as a place of ancient significance, possibly linked to tales of a lone survivor who emerged after a global deluge. Follow Discoveries.news for more news about newly discovered ancient cities. Watch this video about interesting facts concerning Noah's Ark. This video is from the Constable channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Researchers find "underwater Stonehenge" beneath Lake Michigan. Mysterious underwater pyramid off Japan could rewrite ancient history. Discovery of massive ruins of ancient Roman city hit by a tsunami proves "climate change" isnt responsible for natural disasters. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk GBNews.com DailyStar.co.uk Brighteon.com Sea of Galilee turns blood-red, sparking apocalyptic fears but scientists blame algae The Sea of Galilee, a key Christian landmark, turned blood-red, sparking fears of divine judgment and comparisons to the biblical plague where the Nile turned to blood. The event evoked Exodus 7:17-21, where God turned the Nile red as a sign of power, leading some believers to interpret the lake's transformation as an ominous warning. Israeli scientists identified the cause as Botryococcus braunii, a green algae that secretes red pigment under sunlight, confirming the water remains safe despite its alarming appearance. Similar red-water events in the region (like near Sodom and Gomorrah) have fueled religious speculation, with red symbolizing divine retribution in biblical prophecy. The incident highlights tensions between empirical explanations and spiritual interpretations, reigniting discussions about divine signs in an age of skepticism. The Sea of Galilee, one of Christianity's most sacred sites, has turned a startling shade of blood-red this month igniting fears of divine judgment among locals and religious observers. Stunned visitors watched as crimson waves lapped against the shore, drawing immediate comparisons to the biblical plagues of Exodus. The eerie transformation of the Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret, evokes one of the Bibles most dramatic moments. In Exodus 7:17-21, God commands Moses to strike the Nile with his staff, turning its waters to blood as the first of ten plagues against Egypt. The act was both a judgment against Pharaoh and a demonstration of divine authority. For many believers, the sudden reddening of another biblically significant body of water feels like an ominous echo of that ancient warning. (Related: "All The Things That Matter" on BrightU: Why millions of Christians are wrong about the end times.) This is not the first time Middle Eastern waters have turned red, sparking religious speculation. In 2021, a pond near the Dead Sea believed to be near the ruins of Sodom and Gomorrah similarly transformed into a blood-like hue. In biblical tradition, red waters symbolize divine retribution particularly in the Book of Revelation, where rivers and seas turning to blood signify the apocalypse. Science vs. symbolism: Algae, not prophecy, to blame The Israeli Ministry of Environmental Protection swiftly moved to quell panic. According to the ministry, the discoloration was caused by Botryococcus braunii a type of green algae that secretes a red pigment when exposed to strong sunlight. The Kinneret Limnological Laboratory meanwhile assured the public that the water remains safe, with no health risks detected. Yet, despite the rational explanation, the timing and location of the event have fueled theological debate. The Sea of Galilee is central to Christianity being the site where Jesus walked on water, calmed storms and performed the miraculous multiplication of loaves and fishes. Any unnatural change to its waters is bound to stir unease. The phenomenon, though explainable, carries deep spiritual weight in a region steeped in prophecy and divine history. Beyond the scientific explanation, the event underscores a cultural divide between empirical reasoning and faith-based interpretation. While scientists attribute these events to algae or mineral deposits, the symbolic weight remains potent for believers. For secular observers, the algae bloom is a fascinating natural occurrence. For devout communities, it's a potential sign a call to repentance or a reminder of prophecy. The Sea of Galilee's transformation also highlights the fragile intersection of religion, science and modern media, where ancient texts and viral images collide. Watch this video about bodies of water in Argentina and Peru turning blood-red, similar to what happened in the Sea of Galilee. This video is from the Sanivan channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: We really are living in the end times. Some bible scholars believe coronavirus crisis fits biblical predictions of end times. Blood Moon eclipses have many concerned about End Times prophecy; is there any truth to it? Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk BibleGateway.com LADBible.com EndTimeGeadlines.org Brighteon.com Dark money fuels DC anti-Trump crackdown protests as cities grapple with crime crisis Left-wing mega-donors like George Soros funneled $20M via dark money to Free DC protests opposing President Donald Trumps crime policies. Protests include nightly pot-banging and cop watch trainings amid DCs sharp rise in violent crime. DC mayor and city officials clash with Trump over tactics, including federalizing police and removing homeless encampments. Critics argue protest funding undermines public safety, while advocates see threats to civil liberties. Trump vows DC will become a national beacon for crime reduction amid push for federal law enforcement control. Left-wing activists, bankrolled by billions from figures like billionaire George Soros, are spending $20 million to mobilize protests against President Donald Trumps aggressive crackdown on crime in Washington, D.C. The demonstrations, organized by Free DC and backed by progressive megadonors, aim to resist Trumps plan to deploy National Guard troops and federalize local law enforcement to reduce soaring crime rates. Critics decry the campaign as a manufactured pro-crime movement, funded by outsiders and disconnected from urgent local safety needs. Funds from Soros and left-wing megadonors fuel DC protests The protests, spearheaded by Free DCa project fiscally sponsored by progressive nonprofits Community Change and Community Change Actionreceived millions of dollars from dark-money networks including the Open Society Foundations (spearheaded by Soros), the Arabella Advisors network and the Tides Foundation. Between 2020 and 2023, these groups funneled $12.6 million from Soros, $5.6 million from Arabella and $1.9 million from Tides into Community Change operations. Free DCs tactics include nightly outdoor protests, Cop Watch Training seminars and social-media coordinated noise occupations, urging supporters to bang pots and pans at 8:00 PM daily. It is ironic that a protest to Free DC was hosted by Community Change, a group funded by pro-crime agendas, said Caitlin Sutherland of Americans for Public Trust. Soros Open Society Foundation alone contributed $4 million to Community Change in 2023 alone, with the Arabella network providing an additional $680,000. Free DCs sloganDo not obey in advanceechoes global far-left movements, signaling an ideological battle over law enforcement authority. Battle over safety and political agendas in the capital President Trump, who declared DCs violent crime surge a national emergency, insists his policiesincluding removing homeless encampments and deploying federal aidwill restore safety. DC will be the cleanest, safest city in the world, Trump said. His administration has already detained suspects, seized illegal firearms and announced plans to request congressional approval for long-term federal control of the citys police department. However, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and local leaders oppose Trumps rhetoric, accusing him of inflating crime statistics and stigmatizing neighborhoods. We arent a dirty city, Bowser stated, rejecting Trumps characterization of DC as overrun by scumbags. The controversy stakesespecially the legality of federal overreachhinge on the 1973 Home Rule Act, which limits Trumps emergency measures to 30 days unless Congress acts. Trumps allies, like Rep. Elise Stefanik, vow to push anti-bail reform laws, but legislative hurdles loom with the Senates 60-vote threshold. Critics warn of public safety vs. progressive priorities The protest funding surge has drawn fierce outrage from public safety advocates, who argue cities like DC need real solutions amid rising violence. In June 2025, a teen congressional intern was killed in a drive-by shooting, while a carjacking in August left another victim hospitalized. Critics question why progressive groups are prioritizing protest budgets over crime-fighting measures. Its clear this is about politics, not safety, said Sutherland. As shootings rise, Soros-backed groups spend millions to weaken law enforcement. Meanwhile, pro-Trump voices highlight DCs reported 30-year low in violent crime as a potential data manipulation effort by local officials. The White House cites an internal scandal where a DC police commander allegedly falsified crime statistics to downplay the extent of the crisis. Legal and democratic concerns underpin tensions Legal experts worry Trumps unilateral moves could set dangerous precedents for federal overreach. By federalizing DCs police, he risks intensifying debates over states rights and executive authority. Civil liberties groups fear eroding protections for protests, while anti-crime advocates see no alternative amid weakened municipal response. Meanwhile, Free DCs funding structure raises transparency questions. Dark-money groups often obscure donor identities, making it impossible to trace exactly how millions flow to specific protests. Community Change, which refuses to comment, insists Free DC is a grassroots effort tied to ongoing DC criminal code debates. A battle for cities futures The DC clash pits progressive ideals against seismic crime trends, with billions in dark money exacerbating political fissures. As Trump pushes to expand federal control, critics warn of authoritarianism, while supporters argue its the only path to safety. For voters, the stakes are existential: Will cities embrace bold law-and-order reforms, or let activism undermine public trust? With millions riding on the answer, Washingtons streets set the stage for 2026and the future of American cities. Sources for this article include: NYPost.com Lifezette.com Newsbreak.com D.C. police chief imposes curfew for juveniles in the Navy Yard area On Aug. 10, D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith established a nightly curfew for individuals 17 and under in the Navy Yard area from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., citing public safety concerns under the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025. Navy Yard has been designated a Juvenile Curfew Zone, limiting teen gatherings to fewer than nine people. The law allows earlier curfews (as early as 8:00 p.m.) in Extended Juvenile Curfew Zones, which can be requested by local organizations. Minors are exempt if accompanied by a guardian, commuting for work or emergencies, or attending school, religious or civic events. Constitutional rights such as peaceful assembly and free speech are also protected. Adults enabling curfew violations face fines up to $500; minors may be assigned up to 25 hours of community service. The law applies to all youth in D.C., regardless of residency. The curfew follows President Donald Trump's announcement of a federal initiative to tackle crime, homelessness and urban decay in Washington, D.C., vowing swift action and warning, "There will be no 'MR. NICE GUY.' We want our Capital BACK." D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith enacted a nightly curfew for all individuals aged 17 and under in the Navy Yard area on Aug. 10 in response to growing safety concerns. The newly enacted Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, in effect through Aug. 31, designates Navy Yard as a Juvenile Curfew Zone. The ordinance limits gatherings of teens 17 and under to fewer than nine people in public places or private establishments between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., unless they are part of an exempted activity. It aims to curb large, unsupervised groups of minors in the area, which could pose a risk to public safety. (Related: "Violent incidents" involving large groups of juvenile delinquents reported in multiple states.) The legislation also grants the chief of police the authority to establish Extended Juvenile Curfew Zones, which allow for earlier curfew enforcement, potentially beginning as early as 8:00 p.m. in designated areas. These zones are designed to address neighborhood-specific safety issues and may be created following formal petitions by Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANCs), Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) or Main Street organizations. The curfew includes several exemptions for minors. A list of declared Juvenile Curfew Zones, as well as information on how to petition for a zone, is available via the Metropolitan Police Department's website. Teens are permitted to be out if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian or if they are running an errand at the direction of a parent or guardian without making any detours. They are also exempt if they are traveling through the area in a vehicle involved in interstate travel, going to or returning from work without stopping or responding to an emergency. Additionally, minors may remain on the sidewalk outside their home or a next-door neighbor's residence, provided no complaint has been made to police. The curfew does not apply to those attending official school, religious or civic activities, including travel to and from such events or those exercising their constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech, religion or assembly. Trump vows crackdown on crime and homelessness in D.C. as curfew takes effect Under the law, adults who violate the curfew act by enabling or allowing minors to break the rules may face fines up to $500. Juveniles found in violation may be ordered to complete up to 25 hours of community service. Importantly, the law does not differentiate between residents and non-residents. Any individual age 17 or under present in D.C. during curfew hours is subject to the restrictions. Beginning Sept. 1, curfew hours will shift slightly, with the curfew in effect from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Sunday through Thursday nights and from 12:01 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The curfew was implemented following President Donald Trump's announcement to address crime, homelessness and urban decay in the nation's capital. In a series of posts on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared his intention to make Washington, D.C. "safer and more beautiful than it ever was before," vowing a sweeping crackdown on crime and homelessness. "The homeless have to move out, immediately," he wrote. "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." Trump compared his forthcoming plans for D.C. to his immigration policies, claiming he reduced illegal border crossings from "millions to zero" and promising that restoring order in the capital "will be easier." He added, "There will be no 'Mr. Nice Guy.' We want our capital back." Visit Violence.news for more stories about violent crimes in the United States. Listen to the Health Ranger Mike Adams talking about dollar stores reporting more cases of shoplifting below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Number of American teens being arrested for HUMAN SMUGGLING on the rise. Crime forces Brooklyn McDonald's to ban teens and card customers at the door. Statewide human trafficking sting in California results in more than 500 arrests, dozens of rescued victims. Sources include: 100PercentFedUp.com 1 MPDC.DC.gov WTOP.com 100PercentFedUp.com 2 Brighteon.com Diplomatic hope amid shadows: The looming Putin-Trump summit and allegations of Ukrainian sabotage A meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska on Aug. 15 has raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough in the Ukraine conflict, which is nearing its three-and-a-half-year mark. The Russian Defense Ministry has accused Ukraine of plotting a "provocation" to disrupt the summit, claiming Ukrainian forces plan to carry out airstrikes on a residential area or hospital in Chuguev using UAVs and missiles, with Western journalists present to document the incident. The Russian statement alleges that the Ukrainian Security Service transported foreign media journalists to Chuguev on Aug. 11 to record the incident, suggesting similar provocations could occur in other Ukrainian-controlled areas. The allegations come amid heightened tensions and a history of mutual accusations of war crimes between Russia and Ukraine, such as the Bucha incident and claims of executions in Selidovo, with both sides blaming each other for atrocities. The international community is concerned about the allegations, urging caution and restraint. The U.S. Department of State has not commented, but analysts warn that any disruption to the summit could severely impact U.S.-Russian relations and the broader geopolitical landscape, highlighting the high stakes involved in the potential Putin-Trump meeting. As the Ukraine war nears its three-and-a-half-year mark, a potential meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday, Aug. 15, has raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough. However, allegations of a Ukrainian plot to sabotage the summit have surfaced, casting a shadow over the prospects for peace. Russia's Ministry of Defense issued a statement on Tuesday, Aug. 12, accusing Ukraine of plotting a "provocation" to disrupt the upcoming summit. According to the ministry, Ukrainian forces are planning to carry out airstrikes on a densely populated residential area or a hospital in Chuguev, using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missiles. The attack, the ministry claims, would be "immediately recorded by the Western journalists brought in," creating a negative media backdrop and conditions for the disruption of Russian-American cooperation on resolving the Ukraine conflict. The statement further alleged that the Security Service of Ukraine had transported a group of foreign media journalists to Chuguev on Monday, Aug. 11, to document the incident. The ministry warned that "provocations are also possible in other settlements controlled by Ukraine." The allegations of a Ukrainian provocation come amid heightened tensions and a history of mutual accusations between Russia and Ukraine. In April 2022, Ukrainian forces claimed to have discovered the bodies of hundreds of civilians in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha, shortly after Russian troops withdrew as part of a "goodwill gesture" during peace talks with Kyiv. Ukraine blamed Russia for the deaths, using the incident as a key reason for withdrawing from peace negotiations. Mutual accusations of war crimes between Russia and Ukraine Moscow has consistently denied the allegations, calling the Bucha incident a "false-flag operation" aimed at tarnishing Russia's image and derailing diplomatic efforts. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has publicly appealed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for the lists of bodies found in Bucha, but has reportedly received no response. Meanwhile, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also accused Ukrainian forces of executing civilians in the Donbass town of Selidovo as part of a "false flag" operation. According to the ministry, witnesses claimed that mercenaries, including alleged Polish nationals, carried out dozens of killings before retreating in the face of advancing Russian troops in late October. These accusations are part of a broader pattern of claims and counterclaims between Russia and Ukraine, with each side accusing the other of war crimes and atrocities. The lack of independent verification and the conflicting narratives make it difficult to ascertain the truth. The potential summit between Putin and Trump is seen as a critical opportunity to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The allegations of a Ukrainian provocation come at a sensitive time, with both sides under pressure to demonstrate progress toward peace. (Related: Trump's Ukraine peace proposal deemed "acceptable" by Kremlin: Putin-Trump-Zelensky summit under discussion.) The international community has expressed concern over the allegations, with many urging caution and restraint. The U.S. Department of State has not yet commented on the Russian claims, but analysts suggest that any disruption to the summit could have far-reaching consequences for U.S.-Russian relations and the broader geopolitical landscape. Visit WWIII.news for more similar stories. Watch this video about the high-stakes meeting between Trump and Putin about ending the Ukraine war, which is set on Aug. 15. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: U.S. signals shift in Ukraine funding as Trump-Putin summit looms. A Trump-Putin-Zelensky summit will negotiate a "peace deal" land settlement based on the current front lines. Zelensky rejects Trump's land swap proposal as Putin demands Ukrainian withdrawal. Sources include: RT.com AA.com.tr Brighteon.com Researchers discover major flaw in routine blood pressure readings, leading to misdiagnoses Imagine a world where a simple check-up can mean the difference between life and death. Every time you step into a doctor's office, the arm cuff around your bicep isnt just measuring your blood pressure it's meticulously calculating your risk of heart attacks and strokes. But what if the numbers it spits out were, well, a bit off? Picture the misplaced alarm clocks, the neglected medications, the lives put on hold or in danger. It sounds dramatic, but it's a reality many of us might not even know about. The familiar arm cuff, trusted for decades, might be quietly misleading us. Today, groundbreaking research from the University of Cambridge is shining a light on a critical flaw in the way we measure blood pressure. This could be costing millions inaccurate diagnoses, and its time we pay attention. Key points: Standard arm-cuff blood pressure tests can read up to 6 points too low, missing about 30% of people with high systolic blood pressure. The problem arises from a hidden drop in blood pressure in vessels below the cuff during the test. Simple adjustments, like redesigning cuffs or adjusting arm position, could greatly improve accuracy. The hidden drop: Why the numbers can be misleading Blood pressure readings are vital for your health, especially during moments of high intensity like childbirth, heart surgery or stroke prevention. Yet, the daily routine of measuring blood pressure in a doctors office might not be as reliable as we once thought. The heart pumps blood through a network of vessels. When a cuff inflates around your arm, it momentarily squeezes the artery shut. This is where the trouble begins. According to Cambridge researchers Kate Bassil and Anurag Agarwal, this blockage causes a sharp drop in pressure in the vessels beyond the cuff what they call the downstream pressure. As the pressure in these vessels falls, the cuff underestimates your actual blood pressure. Think of it like a narrow river where a dam is built, causing the water to back up but also creating a quieter, less visible flow downstream. The lower that downstream pressure drops, the more the cuffs reading deviates from your true blood pressure. This discrepancy can mean the difference between a diagnosis of high blood pressure and a clean bill of health. Its not just a small technicality; its a wake-up call for millions who might be living with undiagnosed high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the leading cause of premature death globally, and its often silent until complications arise. A small underestimation of blood pressure can push someone from the high category into normal territory, potentially delaying medical interventions. Every year, this misreading could be leaving those who desperately need early treatment waiting longer than necessary. Digging deeper: The experiment that unveiled the truth In a groundbreaking experiment, Bassil and Agarwal recreated the conditions inside the human arm during a blood pressure check. Previous studies had tried to understand the errors in blood pressure readings, but they often relied on simplified models that couldnt fully replicate the real-world scenario. This time, the researchers decided to address the elephant in the room: the way the artery fully collapses when the cuff is inflated. They built a custom experimental rig featuring flexible silicone tubing that mimics a real artery, able to fully close under pressure. The system allowed them to independently control the pressure on both sides of the artery: Upstream pressure: Represents the heart pumping blood into the arm. Downstream pressure: Represents the vessels beyond the cuff in the forearm. By adjusting these pressures separately, they could mimic exactly what happens when the cuff squeezes the artery shut and downstream pressure drops. Their results revealed a clear pattern: the lower the downstream pressure, the greater the underestimation of systolic blood pressure. In their tests, this underestimation could be as much as 9 to 10 mmHg when downstream pressure was at its lowest. Moreover, the study highlighted why standard cuffs tend to underestimate blood pressure. A regular cuff doesn't apply pressure uniformly along its length; its tighter in the middle and looser at the edges. When downstream pressure is low, this uneven squeeze keeps a longer stretch of the artery closed for longer, delaying the return of blood flow and leading to inaccurate readings. A call to action: Making blood pressure testing more reliable The implications of this research are vast. A large analysis of 74 previous studies confirms that cuff-based measurements on average underestimate systolic blood pressure by about 5.7 points. This systematic underestimation means that about 30 percent of people with systolic hypertension could be going undiagnosed. Whats more, the arm-cuff method is the gold standard for checking blood pressure, and its inaccuracies ripple through every other device. This includes the automatic machines in pharmacies and clinics, which are all calibrated against the arm cuff. The Cambridge team proposes several solutions to improve accuracy: Redesigning cuffs to apply uniform pressure along the arm. Adjusting arm position to help achieve more accurate readings. Applying small correction factors based on age, arm size, and other characteristics. These simple adjustments could make a world of difference. By catching high blood pressure early, were not just adjusting numbers on a screen were safeguarding lives. Considering the everyday anxiety that accompanies a positive diagnosis, we must strive to ensure that the red flags are truly necessary. Blood pressure readings should be a trusted compass, not a confusing tool. Sources include: StudyFinds.org Academic.oup.com Enoch, Brighteon.ai Wave of suicides among Chinese entrepreneurs exposes private sector crisis amid government spin Four prominent Chinese entrepreneurs died by suicide in four months, exposing severe distress in the private sector despite Beijing's claims of economic growth. Private businesses face debt crises, financial exclusion and unpredictable regulations, while state-owned enterprises receive preferential funding. The property market crash, U.S. tariffs and sudden fines have devastated industries like textiles, elevators and home renovation, pushing firms into bankruptcy. China's business model relies on fragile trust (prepayments, personal guarantees), but failed entrepreneurs face blacklisting, asset seizures and no bankruptcy protections. These deaths reflect a loss of confidence in China's economic model, where private firms compete against state-backed rivals, predatory banks and an opaque legal system. In just four months, four of China's most prominent entrepreneurs have taken their own lives in desperate leaps from buildings. The string of suicides expose a deepening crisis in the country's private sector that starkly contradicts Beijing's rosy economic narrative. While Chinese officials tout "better-than-expected" GDP growth, these tragedies reveal a darker reality. Entrepreneurs are buckling under crushing debt, financial exclusion and an increasingly hostile regulatory environment. The victims Bi Guangjun (textiles), Liu Wenchao (elevators), Zeng Yuzhou (home renovation) and Wang Linpeng (retail) were once celebrated as pillars of China's economic miracle. Their deaths, however, suggest a system in collapse where private enterprise is suffocated by state favoritism, arbitrary crackdowns and a breakdown of trust. (Related: Chinas economy showing signs of FAILING as exports slow down, shipping industry weakens.) Xiao Yi, a London-based finance expert with three decades of experience in China's markets, argues that these suicides are not isolated incidents, but symptoms of a systemic crisis. Private firms, long the engine of China's growth, now face collapsing cash flows, suffocating debt and policy whiplash from Beijing. Despite state media slogans like "supporting the real economy," capital flows overwhelmingly to state-owned enterprises (SOEs), leaving private businesses starved of financing. Banks, fearing defaults, are tightening credit. Bi's textile firm saw loans slashed after losses mounted, while Zeng's Liangjiaju Building Materials had its last $685,000 seized by its bank, triggering its collapse. A crisis of faith: Broken trust and no way out Since 2021, China's property market implosion has dragged down entire industries from elevators to home renovation. Liu Wenchao's Xizi Elevator saw revenues vanish as developers defaulted, while Liangjiaju faced payment delays stretching from weeks to months. Exporters like Bi's textile firm have been hammered by U.S. tariffs and competition from Southeast Asia, with orders dropping 40 percent. Meanwhile, entrepreneurs navigate a minefield of sudden fines, frozen accounts and unpredictable audits regulatory chaos that can shutter businesses overnight. Most chillingly, Wang's death followed his detention in an anti-corruption probe, where he was reportedly held without legal counsel a common tactic to extract forced confessions. His case underscores the political dangers facing business leaders who cross opaque government interests. China's private sector operates on fragile trust prepayments, personal guarantees and chain financing. When that trust evaporates, the fallout is brutal. After Liangjiaju's collapse, customers demanded refunds, suppliers protested and employees fled. Unlike in Western economies, China offers no real bankruptcy protection. Failed entrepreneurs face blacklisting, asset seizures and social exile. For many, suicide becomes the only "honorable" exit. Each of these deaths was censored from Chinese social media for at least 24 hoursa telling sign of Beijing's obsession with controlling the narrative. Xiao warns that the true crisis is not just economic stagnation, but the erosion of faith in the system itself. Entrepreneurs once believed in China's promise of prosperity, but now face a rigged game state-backed competitors, predatory banks and a legal system that offers no recourse. The suicides of Bi, Liu, Zeng and Wang are not personal failures; they are indictments of a broken model. As Beijing doubles down on control, the private sector's despair signals a reckoning that no GDP report can cover up. Until China reforms, more will follow their grim example. An expert warns that China's economy is failing. Watch this video. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: China cracking down on content that "bad mouths" its economy. Chaos in China: Rushed exit from zero-COVID strategy could COLLAPSE Chinese economy. War between the U.S. and China over Taiwan could cost the global economy a staggering $10 TRILLION. Sources include: Zerohedge.com Theepochtimes.com Englishpardafas.com Brighteon.com Trumps controversial call to relocate D.C. homeless sparks concerns on safety, rights and lasting solutions President Donald Trump has demanded the immediate relocation of homeless individuals from Washington, D.C. to enhance the city's safety and aesthetics, sparking controversy and debate. On Aug. 10, Trump posted on Truth Social, using images of tents and trash to support his call for action. He also announced a press conference on "stopping violent crime in Washington, D.C.," emphasizing a tough stance on crime. Approximately 3,782 individuals experience homelessness in Washington, D.C., on any given night, with about 800 unsheltered. The proposal raises legal and logistical questions, as Congress controls the city's budget and federalizing the city would require congressional and presidential action. Trump has linked public safety to crime rates, criticizing local officials and threatening to federalize the city. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser countered his claims, stating that violent crime is down 26 percent from 2024 and overall crime has dropped seven percent. Reactions to the proposal are mixed, with some supporting a tougher approach and others concerned about the impact on the homeless. Experts advocate for comprehensive strategies addressing housing, mental health and job training, rather than relocation. In a series of posts on social media, President Donald Trump has called for the immediate relocation of homeless individuals from Washington, D.C., to make the city "safer and more beautiful than it ever was before." On Sunday, Aug. 10, Trump shared images on Truth Social depicting tents and trash-lined streets, accompanied by a call to action: "The homeless have to move out, immediately." He further stated that criminals would be jailed "very fast," warning that "there will be no more 'Mr. Nice Guy.'" The posts did not specify the legal process that would be used to remove homeless residents or where they would be relocated. According to the Community Partnership, an organization that tracks homelessness in the city, approximately 3,782 single individuals experience homelessness in Washington on any given night. Most of these individuals are in emergency shelters or transitional housing, with about 800 remaining unsheltered. Trump has long linked public safety to the city's crime rate, frequently criticizing local officials for what he perceives as a lack of action. In recent weeks, he has pointed to a violent carjacking attempt against a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer as evidence of the city's deteriorating conditions. He has threatened to federalize the city if local officials do not take decisive action, citing "totally out of control" gang violence involving offenders as young as 14 years old. (Related: Trump signs executive order to clear homeless encampments nationwide.) The proposal to relocate homeless individuals raises significant legal and logistical questions. Under current law, Congress controls Washington's budget while allowing residents to elect a mayor and council. Federalizing the city would require Congress to pass, and the president to sign, a bill rescinding that authority. District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged that Trump could deploy the National Guard without congressional action, as was recently done in Los Angeles during violent unrest tied to federal immigration enforcement. Bowser pushed back against Trump's claims in an interview with MSNBC's "The Weekend," stating that the capital is "not experiencing a crime spike." She noted that violent crime is down 26 percent from 2024 and overall crime has dropped seven percent this year. Public reaction and expert opinions The reaction to Trump's proposal has been mixed. Some residents and local officials have expressed concern about the potential impact on the city's homeless population, while others have supported the idea of a more aggressive approach to crime and safety. A sociologist at Georgetown University commented: "Relocating homeless individuals without addressing the root causes of their situation is not a solution. It's a temporary fix that could lead to further problems down the line." She added, "We need comprehensive strategies that include housing, mental health services and job training." A local business owner expressed a different view: "I understand the need for compassion, but we also have to think about the safety of our community. If relocating homeless individuals can help reduce crime, then it's worth considering. The proposal raises important questions about the balance between public safety and the rights of homeless individuals, as well as the effectiveness of relocation as a solution to homelessness. Watch the video below that talks about New York City middle class is disappearing into homelessness. This video is from the TREASURE OF THE SUN channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: San Francisco imposes new parking limits on oversized vehicles to address homelessness. Homeless crisis in America GETTING WORSE as government continues to spend hundreds of billions on foreign aid. Bipartisan coalition pushes ballot initiative to address homeless encampments in King County. Sources include: YourNews.com TruthSocial.com Brighteon.com Same-sex marriage in the United States, the right to which was expanded 10 years ago nationwide, may be in danger of disappearing if the Supreme Court rules in favor of a government official who, on religious grounds, refused to issue a marriage license to a gay couple. The official was sentenced to a substantial fine and six days in jail for contempt of court for doing so. The case of Kim Davis, who was the county clerk for Rowan County, Kentucky, in 2015 was followed by others such as the pastry chef who, in 2017, refused to make a wedding cake for the marriage of two men, also citing religious beliefs, and whom the Supreme Court ruled in favor of a year later, during Donald Trumps first term in the White House. Daviss appeal which will reach the Supreme Court in the fall in an attempt to overturn the ruling that ordered her to pay a $100,000 fine for emotional damages to the couple, plus $260,000 in legal fees transcends the individual case and threatens to deal a setback to the LGBTQ+ community amid the ultraconservative offensive. In a ruling filed last month seeking a review of lower court decisions all of which went against the plaintiff Davis, a Republican, argues that the First Amendments protection for the free exercise of religion exempts her from personal liability for refusing to process the paperwork for same-sex marriage. But her appeal goes much further. The Supreme Court, with a conservative supermajority six of its members versus three liberals has ruled in favor of the Trump administration in numerous emergency appeals to lower court decisions, so its decision in the Davis case will be decisive for the future of marriage equality. Because, in essence, the former county clerks appeal asserts that the Supreme Courts decision in Obergefell v. Hodges which expanded the right to marry for same-sex couples under the 14th Amendment was flagrantly wrong. This error must be corrected, Daviss attorney, Mathew Staver, wrote in the appeal, calling the majority opinion in Obergefell a legal fiction. In June 2015, the Supreme Court narrowly ruled (5-4) that same-sex couples have a fundamental right to marry and that states must recognize same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions. Moreover, the right to marriage is a fundamental freedom, inherent in individual autonomy and protected by the 14th Amendment, according to the ruling read by Justice Anthony Kennedy. So the action by Davis, who, as Rowan County clerk, was the sole authority charged with issuing marriage licenses on behalf of the government, is more than a remedy: its an amendment to the entire case. In fact, her petition is the first in a decade to formally ask the court to overturn the landmark marriage ruling. Davis has the standing to do so, according to her attorney, because if there was ever a case of exceptional importance that of the first person imprisoned for following their religious convictions regarding the historic definition of marriage its hers, Staver said. For a decade, lower courts have dismissed Daviss claims, and most legal experts consider her attempt to have little chance of success. A federal appeals court concluded earlier this year that the former clerk cannot invoke the First Amendment as a defense because she is held liable for state action [the issuance of licenses], something the First Amendment does not protect. Conservative offensive But the appeal comes as opponents of same-sex marriage are ramping up their campaign to overturn the Obergefell precedent and move the legislation to individual states, even though Congress overwhelmingly passed legislation in December 2022 to secure it. Ten years ago, when the landmark ruling was handed down, 35 states had legal or constitutional bans on same-sex marriage. Only eight had enacted laws explicitly permitting such unions. Ten years later, at least nine states have introduced bills aimed at blocking new marriage licenses for LGBTQ+ people or passed resolutions urging the Supreme Court to overturn the Obergefell case as soon as possible, according to the advocacy group Lambda Legal. Daviss appeal could catalyze the conservative crackdown on millions of Americans. Something similar happened with another landmark ruling, Roe v. Wade, which constitutionally enshrined the right to abortion in 1973 and was overturned in 2022 by a Supreme Court made in Trumps image. As in the case of abortion in which the Republican is keeping a low profile so as not to upset his electoral base, especially evangelical Christians by advocating for states to legislate instead of the federal government, the repeal of Obergefell could be the final blow to a right that has been fought for over decades. A month ago, the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest Christian denomination in the country, voted overwhelmingly in favor of repealing the laws and court rulings, including Obergefell v. Hodges, that defy Gods design for marriage and family. Although a large majority of Americans back equal marriage rights, support appears to have weakened in recent years, according to the Gallup Institute: 60% of Americans supported same-sex marriage in 2015, a percentage that rose to 68% in 2025 but has stagnated since 2020. Incidentally, the couple to whom Davis denied a license eventually married after her office staff issued the licenses by proxy, removing their names from the form. To prevent similar cases, the state of Kentucky enacted a law removing the names of all county clerks from marriage licenses. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition End of Slavery Summit on BrightU: How 19th-century abolitionists preached the end of government before anarchism even had a name On Day 16 of the "End of Slavery Summit," William H. Douglas discussed how radical abolitionists like William Lloyd Garrison and Adin Ballou rejected coercive governments before anarchism was formally defined, arguing only divine law justified human freedom. Douglas explained why Garrison and Ballou viewed the state as usurping God's authority, advocating non-compliance (e.g., tax refusal, self-governing communities) and framing freedom as a divine right. Garrison's extreme stance (rejecting voting, the Constitution) alienated mainstream abolitionists and modern historians, challenging the myth of benevolent government. Douglas linked historical state violence (slavery) to contemporary overreach (COVID-19 lockdowns, taxation), arguing both rely on coercion and control. Douglas shared his plans for launching of The Liberator 2.0 that aims to revive Garrison's legacy, promoting disobedience, education and "moral suasion" to combat state oppression. On Day 16 of the "End of Slavery Summit," aired on August 10, historian and writer William H. Douglas, founder of The Latter-day Liberator, discussed how radical abolitionists like William Lloyd Garrison and Adin Ballou rejected coercive governments before anarchism was formally defined, arguing only divine law justified human freedom. "Garrison was writing anarchist ideas in the 1830s, he just didn't call it that," Douglas explained. "By 1838, the New England Non-Resistance Society's Declaration of Sentiments was as anarchistic as it gets, rejecting all human governments as illegitimate because theyre rooted in violence." Long before Pierre-Joseph Proudhon coined the term "anarchism" in 1840, Garrison and Ballou declared that only God's law could justify human freedom. These fiery preachers of "non-resistance" argued that any system built on violence, whether slavery or the state, was inherently evil. Garrison, best known for his abolitionist newspaper The Liberator, went further than most of his peers, condemning the U.S. Constitution as a "covenant with death and an agreement with hell" for its complicity in slavery. Alongside thinkers like Adin Ballou and Lysander Spooner, he framed freedom as a divine right, arguing that no earthly authority could override Gods law. "Christian anarchism teaches that the only authority is Jesus Christ," Douglas said. "If the state claims power to cage, tax, or kill you, it's usurping God's role." This philosophy, he noted, was not passive, it demanded active resistance. Abolitionists like Ballou experimented with self-governing communities like Hopedale, while others refused taxes or jury duty, seeing cooperation with the state as sinful. Despite their influence, these radicals were sidelined even in their own time. "Garrison was too extreme for most abolitionists," Douglas noted. "He rejected voting, political parties, even the Constitution because all of it relied on coercion." Modern historians, he argued, ignore them because their critique undermines the myth of benevolent government. "We're taught to see the state as society's savior, not its oppressor." The parallels to modern tyranny are stark. Douglas pointed to Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdowns: "Governments treated us like criminals under house arrest. That's the state's nature, it always grows, always demands more control." Just as slavery depended on state violence, today's systems, taxation, surveillance, licensing, rest on the same threat: "Obey, or be caged or killed." The solution, Douglas argued, isn't reform but disobedience and education. "The state exists because people believe in it. Stop paying taxes, stop obeying unjust laws, starve the beast." Yet lasting change requires moral persuasion, a tactic Garrison called "moral suasion." "You can't force people to be free," Douglas said. "But if they see the truth, they'll liberate themselves." The interview closed with an announcement: Douglas and host Cory Endrulat are launching The Liberator 2.0, a revival of Garrison's newspaper to spread these ideas. "We're not just fighting chattel slavery anymore," Endrulat said. "We're fighting the slavery of the state." As Douglas put it: "The abolitionists knew freedom wasn't about nicer masters. It was about no masters at all." Their forgotten struggle, a fusion of faith and anarchism, offers a roadmap for dismantling modern tyranny. More from Day 16 of the "End of Slavery Summit" Day 16 of the "End of Slavery Summit" doesn't end there. Here's a summary of the topics tackled by other speakers: Joel Charron discussed: The importance of inner healing, shadow work and self-improvement as foundational steps before taking external action. He argued that overcoming trauma and ego is critical to breaking free from systemic conditioning. The need for strong local networks, co-ops and skill-sharing (e.g., farmers markets, forest schools) rather than relying on online activism alone. Charron shared a story about convincing local businesses to adopt privacy crypto as real-world proof of concept. His view on independent media figures who focus on fear-mongering or preaching to the choir without encouraging tangible action. He advocated for leading by example (e.g., growing food, teaching skills) over endless theorizing. Strategies for systemic change, with Charron favoring anarcho-capitalist principles (voluntary trade, no rulers) while Endrulat framed abolitionism as a moral imperative to end all forms of slavery. Both agreed that transitioning to freedom requires decentralized, community-based solutions. Derrick Broze discussed: His upbringing in a family affected by addiction and incarceration, his struggles with substance abuse and how his time in prison became a pivotal awakening. Broze's experiences led him to question systemic injustice and embrace sobriety, self-education and activism. His view on mass incarceration, emphasizing that many inmates are jailed for victimless crimes (e.g., drug offenses, child support disputes). He argued prisons fail to rehabilitate and often worsen trauma, advocating for alternative solutions rooted in healing and community support. The growth of the Freedom Cells network, decentralized mutual aid groups focused on self-sufficiency, skill-sharing and building parallel systems outside state control. The movement expanded globally during COVID-19 as people sought alternatives to government overreach. The balance between grassroots organizing and ideological clarity. Broze stressed the importance of clear principles (e.g., non-violence, apolitical focus) while adapting messaging to reach diverse audiences, including those new to concepts like anarchism or natural law. His view on "conspiratainment" outlets that prioritizing fear over solutions. Broze highlighted the need for action-oriented content, while Endrulat advocated for movements that combine education (e.g., flags, symbols) with real-world community building to inspire generational change. David Icke discussed: Why slavery persists today through systemic control mechanisms , such as financial dependency, forced compliance (e.g., COVID-19 lockdowns) and centralized authority. Why true slavery is mental, with people conditioned to accept authority without question or act out of fear. He linked this to historical patterns where the masses enable their own oppression. A future where artificial intelligence (AI) could dominate human thought, eliminating free will. He referenced figures like Ray Kurzweil to highlight plans for AI-driven mind control. Why freedom requires rejecting rigid identities (e.g., race, religion) and recognizing the self as infinite consciousness. This shift, he argued, dissolves divisions and resistance to tyranny. Why systemic change hinges on mass non-compliance. Icke cited the poll tax protests in the U.K. as proof that unified refusal undermines authority. Endrulat tied this to education and grassroots action. Want to know more? If you are ready to break the chains that bind you now, skip the wait and unlock instant access to all episodes and bonus content with the "End of Slavery Summit" package here. This is your chance to watch on your terms, at your paceno delays, no censorship, no compromise. Because when it comes to freedom, why wait, when you can wake up now? Upon purchase, you will get instant and unlimited access to all "End of Slavery Summit" episodes, curated learning tools, 30 unique speaker gifts, 27 bonus videos from host Cory Endrulat, essential bonus eBooks, 60 clips from "The Liberator 2 Showcase Event Community Wisdom" and printable graphics and ads you can use to share the message. Sources include: BrighteonUniversity.com 1 BrightU.com BrighteonUniversity.com 2 COVID BOOSTERS make you FLU-STYLE SICK according to Swiss study of 1,700 healthcare workers Want to get sick like the flu? Its easy, just go get a Covid booster jab and youll feel horrible for days, or weeks, or months, or years, or maybe even the rest of your shortened life. According to science, the risk far outweighs any reward when it comes to Fauci Flu boosters. A Swiss study of 1,745 healthcare workers has found that those who received a COVID-19 booster were up to 70% more likely to develop flu-like symptoms and miss work compared to those who did not receive the shot. Published August 9 in Communications Medicine, the study tracked participants from November 2023 to May 2024, examining whether booster vaccination affected rates of respiratory illness and sick leave in a post-pandemic setting. A Swiss study of 1,745 healthcare workers found those who received a COVID-19 booster were up to 70% more likely to develop flu-like symptoms and miss work than un-boosted peers, particularly in the days immediately after vaccination. Researchers concluded boosters did not appear to protect healthcare workers in a post-pandemic setting and might temporarily raise the risk of symptomatic respiratory illness and workday loss, though the study did not prove causation. As of 2025, 10 U.S. states still mandate COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare workers, while the CDC continues recommending boosters for most adults under 65 despite the FDA limiting approvals to high-risk individuals and those over 65. The study also found seasonal flu shots reduced risk of flu-like symptoms and missed work, contradicting an April Cleveland Clinic preprint suggesting the 20242025 flu vaccine was ineffective and possibly linked to higher flu risk. COVID-19 Boosters Linked to Higher Rates of Flu-Like Symptoms and Sick Leave in Swiss Healthcare Workers Researchers defined influenza-like respiratory illness as a fever plus at least one respiratory symptom such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of smell with sudden onset within the prior week. They used the term flu-like rather than COVID-19 because most healthcare workers no longer routinely test for SARS-CoV-2. The studys findings suggest that COVID-19 boosters do not contribute to the protection of the healthcare workforce in a post-pandemic setting and may temporarily increase the risk of symptomatic infection and missed workdays. The increase was most pronounced shortly after vaccination. Mandates and Policy Landscape As of 2025, 10 U.S. states California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Rhode Island still require COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare workers. The FDA announced in May that updated COVID-19 vaccines will only be approved for individuals over 65 or those with health conditions putting them at higher risk. Nevertheless, the CDC continues to recommend that all adults under 65 receive at least one dose of the 20242025 booster. In February, President Donald Trump signed an executive order ending federal funding for schools with ongoing student COVID-19 vaccine mandates. While many institutions dropped requirements, some healthcare-related programs kept them, citing exemptions in the order and partnerships with clinical training sites that mandate vaccination. Study Design and Risk Factors Researchers collected weekly symptom reports from participants along with data on potential confounding factors such as age, sex, body mass index, smoking status, prior COVID-19 infection history, patient contact levels, household children under age 12, and chronic health conditions (including cancer, cardiovascular disease, lung disease, or immunosuppressive disorders). They also tracked sick leave throughout the study period. Statistical analyses isolated the impact of booster vaccination on illness rates and sick days. Those who received the booster reported higher rates of respiratory symptoms and more missed workdays than unvaccinated peers. Causation Not Confirmed The authors stressed that their results do not prove causation, noting that further research is needed to confirm the findings and investigate possible immunological mechanisms. They also observed that receiving a seasonal influenza vaccine was associated with a reduced risk of flu-like symptoms and missed work. Interestingly, this contrasts with an April preprint study from the Cleveland Clinic involving 53,402 employees. That study reported a 27% higher risk of influenza among workers who received the 20242025 flu shot compared to those who did not, suggesting poor vaccine effectiveness for that season. The Swiss researchers concluded that while boosters may not protect against symptomatic illness in healthy working-age populations, more studies are necessary to clarify the observed effects and guide future vaccination strategies for healthcare workers. Stay fully unvaccinated folks. It's much safer. Look for immunity boosts in medicinal mushrooms, oregano oil, and warm sunshine. Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental gene therapy injections and BOOSTERS that lead to flu-like symptoms, early death, infertility, turbo cancer and Long-Vax-Syndrome. Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news NaturalNews.com ChildrensHealthDefense.org Trump-Putin Alaska Summit: Europes Desperate Leaders Allegedly Plotting Missile Assassination Attempt Assassination Plot Alleged: European powers (UK, France, Germany) are reportedly planning missile strikes against Trump and Putin during their 2025 Alaska summit to sabotage peace efforts and escalate global tensions. European powers (UK, France, Germany) are reportedly planning missile strikes against Trump and Putin during their 2025 Alaska summit to sabotage peace efforts and escalate global tensions. Summit Security: The Alaska meeting was chosen for its advanced anti-air defenses, deterring potential attacks, as NATO-aligned nations view the Trump-Putin diplomacy as a threat to their war-driven agendas. The Alaska meeting was chosen for its advanced anti-air defenses, deterring potential attacks, as NATO-aligned nations view the Trump-Putin diplomacy as a threat to their war-driven agendas. Motivations Behind the Plot: Europe fears Trumps peace overtures in Ukraine and Putins military victories, which undermine NATOs influence and expose Western military weaknesses. Europe fears Trumps peace overtures in Ukraine and Putins military victories, which undermine NATOs influence and expose Western military weaknesses. False-Flag Risk: MI6 may orchestrate a deceptive attack (e.g., missiles framed as Russian aggression), while Zelenskys unrealistic $1 trillion demand stalls peace talks. MI6 may orchestrate a deceptive attack (e.g., missiles framed as Russian aggression), while Zelenskys unrealistic $1 trillion demand stalls peace talks. Global Implications: The plot highlights Europes panic over declining war reliance, Trumps isolation from allies, and a BRICS-led shift threatening Europes geopolitical relevance. In a shocking twist that reads like a geopolitical thriller, sources indicate European powersparticularly the UK, France, and Germanyare actively scheming to launch missile strikes targeting both U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin during their high-stakes Alaska summit. The meeting, set at a U.S. military base renowned for its advanced anti-air defenses, underscores fears that European leaders, enraged by Trumps push for peace and Putins military successes, may resort to extreme measures to derail diplomacy and escalate global conflict. The Alaska Summit: A Target for Desperate Leaders The Trump-Putin meeting, scheduled for August 2025, was deliberately positioned at a heavily fortified U.S. military base in Alaska to mitigate assassination risks. Intel suggests NATO-aligned nationsstill reeling from Trumps criticisms and Putins dominance in Ukraineview the summit as a direct threat to their geopolitical agendas. "Why Alaska? Because it has the best anti-air defenses in North America," explained journalist Mike Adams in a recent broadcast. "They want to prevent European powers from taking a cheap shot with a cruise missile." The European Backlash The alleged plot stems from Europes frustration over: Trumps peace overtures: His recent shift toward brokering a Ukraine ceasefire threatens the war economy fueling NATO's influence. His recent shift toward brokering a Ukraine ceasefire threatens the war economy fueling NATO's influence. Putins battlefield wins: Russias unrelenting advances have exposed the Wests military shortcomings, humiliating European leaders. Sources warn that British intelligence (MI6), still seething over Trumps defiance of Londons financial hegemony, could stage a false-flag attacklaunching missiles disguised as Russian aggression. Zelenskys Last-Ditch Sabotage Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, facing inevitable defeat, has bizarrely demanded $1 trillion in reparations from Russia as a condition for peacea transparent ploy to stall talks. "This is Netanyahus playbook: Offer impossible terms, then blame the other side for rejecting them," Adams noted. The Broader Implications If the assassination plot proves real, it would confirm: Europes Panic: Their reliance on perpetual war is crumbling. Their reliance on perpetual war is crumbling. Trumps Isolation: Even U.S. allies now view him as a greater threat than Putin. Even U.S. allies now view him as a greater threat than Putin. Global Realignment: The summit symbolizes a pivot toward BRICS-led multipolarity, leaving Europe sidelined. Conclusion As Trump and Putin prepare to meet under unprecedented security, one question looms: Will Europes desperate gambit succeedor will Alaskas defenses prove the final firewall against World War III? Watch the Aug. 14 episode of "Brighteon Broadcast News" as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, talks about Europes deranged leaders are still trying to assassinate Trump (and Putin) AGAIN! This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Rubio says Ukraine peace talks doomed without Trump and Putin as leaders push for direct meeting ICE arrests Mexican national who threatened to kill President Trump in handwritten letter Israel threatens West Bank annexation if Europe recognizes Palestinian state Sources include: Brighteon.com Targeting the truth: IDF airstrike KILLS Al Jazeera journalists in Gaza On Aug. 10, the Israel Defense Forces launched an airstrike on a journalist camp outside Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people, including five Al Jazeera staff members. Prominent Arabic correspondent Anas al-Sharif, known for his coverage of the Gaza humanitarian crisis, was among the victims. The IDF claimed he was a Hamas "terrorist cell" leader, a claim Al Jazeera vehemently denied. Since the Israeli war on Hamas began, at least 237 journalists have been killed in Gaza, with Al Jazeera losing 11 staff members and eight freelancers. This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence against journalists, with rights groups accusing Israel of systematically targeting media workers. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and the United Nations have condemned the attack, citing a lack of evidence for Israel's claims and expressing concern over the targeting of journalists. The CPJ noted that Israel has killed more journalists in the past 22 months than were killed worldwide in the preceding three years. Al Jazeera Media Network condemned the killings as attacks on press freedom, urging the international community to take action to stop the targeting of journalists. The incident underscores the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones and the need for accountability to ensure their safety. On Sunday evening, Aug. 10, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched an airstrike on a journalist camp outside Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, killing at least seven people, including five Al Jazeera staff members. Among the victims was Anas al-Sharif, a prominent Arabic correspondent known for his extensive coverage of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The attack occurred as journalists had gathered in one place after a period of intense Israeli bombardment. Al-Sharif, who had been reporting on the situation in Gaza since the start of the war in October 2023, was targeted by the IDF, which claimed he was the head of a Hamas "terrorist cell" operating under the guise of a reporter. However, the news agency denied these allegations, describing them as part of a "campaign of incitement" against its journalists. The killing of journalists in conflict zones is not a new phenomenon, but the frequency and impunity with which they are targeted in Gaza have drawn international condemnation. Since the Israeli war on Hamas began, at least 237 journalists have been killed, according to the Government Media Office in Gaza, with Al Jazeera alone losing 11 staff members and eight freelancers. This latest incident is part of a broader pattern of violence against journalists in the region, with rights groups accusing Israel of systematically targeting media workers to suppress the truth. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemned the attack, stating that Israel provided "no evidence" to support its claims that al-Sharif was a Hamas member. CPJ CEO Jodie Ginsberg said, "This is part of a pattern that we have seen from Israel going back decades in which it kills journalists." Muhammed Shehada, an analyst at the nonprofit Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor, echoed this sentiment. He argued that there was "zero evidence" that al-Sharif took part in any hostilities. "His entire daily routine was standing in front of a camera from morning to evening," Shehada said. The impact on press freedom The United Nations special rapporteur on freedom of expression, Irene Khan, expressed deep concern over the repeated threats and accusations against al-Sharif. "Fears for al-Sharif's safety are well-founded as there is growing evidence that journalists in Gaza have been targeted and killed by the Israeli army on the basis of unsubstantiated claims that they were Hamas terrorists," she said. Correspondent Hani Mahmoud, who was just one block away when the strike hit, said reporting on al-Sharif's killing was the hardest thing he has had to do in the past 22 months of war. "The reporters were killed because of their relentless reporting on the starvation and the famine and the malnutrition suffered by Palestinians in Gaza, because they're bringing the truth of this crime to everyone," he said. (Related: Four Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza airstrike, death toll of journalists reaches 182.) The killing of al-Sharif and his colleagues is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza. The international community must demand accountability for these attacks and work to ensure the safety of journalists who are risking their lives to report the truth. As CPJ Regional Director Sara Qudah stated, "Israel has killed more journalists in the 22 months since the start of the war than were killed worldwide in the preceding three years. Deliberately targeting journalists is a war crime under international law. This massacre must end." Watch this video about the IDF's recent airstrike on UNRWA's clinic located west of Gaza City. This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Over 100 BBC writers were forced to publish pro-Israeli content, despite facts and personal convictions about genocide in Gaza. Israel bombs Iran's state TV during live broadcast, defying Geneva protections for journalists. Israeli journalist, intelligence officer confirms widespread torture of Palestinians at "house of horrors" HaKirya military compound. Sources include: RT.com CPJ.org AlJazeera.com Brighteon.com Preserving free speech in the digital age: Jonathan W. Emords Freedom, Technology, and the First Amendment In "Freedom, Technology, and the First Amendment", constitutional lawyer Jonathan W. Emord argues that government regulations on media content violate the First Amendment's foundational principles, often serving political and entrenched media interests rather than protecting free discourse. Emord traces the First Amendment's origins to 17th-century English Radical Whig philosophy, which emphasized the right to criticize authority a principle adopted by American revolutionaries like John Wilkes and embedded in the Framers' vision of unrestrained debate. The book exposes a pattern where politicians and legacy media collaborate to create regulatory barriers that suppress competition, control narratives and stifle new voices, undermining democratic exchange. While digital innovations (e.g., broadband, social media) democratize information access, Emord warns that outdated regulations and government censorship threats justified as public interest or security risk replicating historical abuses of power. Emord urges dismantling the current regulatory regime, repealing laws that restrict press freedom and restoring the First Amendment's absolute protections to safeguard private communication, innovation and enduring liberty. Constitutional attorney Jonathan W. Emord's "Freedom, Technology, and the First Amendment" presents a compelling critique of government regulation over media and its erosion of constitutional freedoms. At its core, Emord's book argues that the unrestricted flow of information is essential for a free society and a thriving market economy. Yet, through historical and legal analysis, he demonstrates how modern regulatory regimes have betrayed the intellectual foundations of the First Amendment often under the guise of protecting incumbents rather than upholding democratic principles. The First Amendment was conceived as a safeguard against government censorship, ensuring protections for free speech and a free press. Emord traces its roots to 17th-century England, where Radical Whig philosophy championed the right to criticize authority and expose corruption. This ideology profoundly influenced American revolutionaries, shaping colonial opposition to British suppression of dissent. It was epitomized by figures like John Wilkes, whose defiance inspired American demands for press freedoms. Historically, the Framers designed the First Amendment to shield discourse from government interference reinforcing the idea that debate should flourish unchecked in a private sphere of communication. However, Emord reveals a troubling pattern. Politicians and established media have frequently colluded in self-interest, erecting regulatory barriers that stifle competition and suppress new voices. Government oversight, particularly in electronic mass media, has expanded under laws like the Communications Act of 1934, granting federal agencies broad control over broadcasting and, later, digital platforms. Such regulation, Emord contends, violates the First Amendment's spirit by privileging state-approved narratives over unfiltered public discourse. Technological advancements amplify these concerns. The digital revolution democratized publishing, allowing individuals to reach global audiences affordably. Innovations like broadband networks and multimedia platforms promised unprecedented access to information. Yet Emord warns that bureaucratic inertia and overregulation threaten this progress. Regulatory frameworks designed for legacy media are ill-suited for today's decentralized communication landscape. Worse, they enable governments to justify censorship under the pretext of public interest, national security or corporate consolidation echoing historical abuses of power. Emord challenges contemporary legal interpretations that treat the Constitution as a malleable document. He rejects theories permitting judicial reinterpretation of foundational rights, insisting instead on adherence to original principles. The First Amendment, he argues, was never intended to accommodate state-imposed restrictions; its language is unequivocal. Courts and policymakers, swayed by political pressures, have nonetheless permitted creeping encroachments eroding protections meant to endure across technological and social shifts. Critics might argue that technological complexity necessitates updated regulations or that Emord's historical originalism ignores modern realities. Yet his rebuttal is firm: Constitutional freedoms cannot be compromised without risking their total disintegration. The solution, he proposes, is dismantling today's regulatory regime repealing laws that abridge press freedoms and erecting new legal firewalls against state overreach. Only by reaffirming absolute protections for private communication can innovation and liberty coexist. "Freedom, Technology, and the First Amendment" is a rallying cry. Emord underscores that free speech is not a passive guarantee. It demands vigilance against government encroachment, corporate collusion and public complacency. As digital tools reshape communication, the principles of 1791 remain strikingly relevant. The government's role is not to control discourse but to protect its independence, ensuring that the marketplace of ideas remains truly free for generations to come. Watch this video about the book "Freedom, Technology, and the First Amendment" by Jonathan W. Emord. This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com Kim Davis appeals $100K verdict, urges Supreme Court to revisit 2015 landmark gay marriage ruling Former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis is appealing a $360,000 verdict against her for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and is asking the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Davis claims her refusal was protected by the First Amendment's free exercise clause and argues that marriage should be regulated by states, not mandated by federal courts. The Supreme Court is expected to consider Davis' petition in private this fall. If accepted, oral arguments could take place in spring 2026, with a decision by June. At least nine states have introduced bills or resolutions this year seeking to overturn Obergefell or limit marriage to heterosexual couples, with conservative-led legislatures like Texas and Idaho leading the push. In June, the Southern Baptist Convention overwhelmingly passed a resolution calling for the reversal of Obergefell, asserting that marriage should be defined as between one man and one woman and aligned with "natural law" and Scripture. Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk who gained national attention in 2015 for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, is seeking to overturn a $100,000 jury verdict and to use it as a vehicle to strike down Obergefell v. Hodges, the decision that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. In a petition for writ of certiorari filed last month, Davis is appealing a lower court's ruling that found her personally liable for emotional damages and attorneys' fees totaling $360,000. Her legal team, led by attorney Mathew Staver of the conservative legal group Liberty Counsel, argues that her refusal was constitutionally protected under the First Amendment's guarantee of free exercise of religion. Davis' legal challenge goes beyond personal liability. Her petition calls Obergefell "egregiously wrong" and urges the Court to overturn it, echoing the court's 2022 reversal of Roe v. Wade. In that decision, Justice Clarence Thomas suggested that the court should also revisit other substantive due process rulings, including Obergefell. Her petition argues that the issue of marriage, like abortion, should be left to the states and not dictated by federal constitutional interpretation. The Supreme Court is expected to privately consider Davis' petition this fall as part of its routine docket review. If at least four justices vote to hear the case, oral arguments could be scheduled as soon as next spring, with a decision likely by the end of June 2026. (Related: Ermold v. Davis case could overturn Supreme Court same-sex marriage ruling.) If the Court declines to take up the case, the lower court's ruling will stand, leaving Obergefell intact, at least for now. Call to overturn Obergefell growing louder The petition comes at a time when some conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups are renewing efforts to return control over marriage laws to individual states. According to legal advocacy group Lambda Legal, at least nine states have introduced legislation or resolutions this year calling on the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell. Five of these states have introduced resolutions explicitly urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell, while four others have proposed redefining marriage in state law to apply only to heterosexual couples. The names of the states introducing the measures have not all been publicly confirmed, but among them are conservative-led legislatures such as Texas and Idaho, where lawmakers have previously advanced anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. The bills vary in language, but most include calls for judicial reconsideration of Obergefell or express support for states' rights to define marriage. Adding fuel to the fire, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), the nation's largest Protestant denomination, passed a resolution in June making the reversal of Obergefell a top priority in its public policy agenda. Thousands of Southern Baptists overwhelmingly endorsed the resolution during the two-day annual convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, where more than 10,000 church representatives, or "messengers," gathered. The resolution, which passed without debate, urges lawmakers to pass laws that "reflect the truth of creation and natural law" and to oppose statutes that contradict "what God has made plain through nature and Scripture." Among its key provisions, the resolution calls for "the overturning of laws and court rulings, including Obergefell v. Hodges, that defy God's design for marriage and family," and affirms marriage as "between one man and one woman." Visit CultureWars.news for more stories about same-sex marriages. Watch this video about former President Joe Biden signing the Respect for Marriage bill into law. This video is from the WAKE UP channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Corporate media hypes Pope Francis' support of SAME-SEX MARRIAGE. Pro-LGBT Republican personalities urge GOP senators to back same-sex marriage bill. Survey: Support for same-sex marriage in America drops for the first time since 2015. Sources include: YourNews.com ABCNews.com LambdaLegal.org WJLA.com Brighteon.com Natural Intelligence or Cosmic Destiny? Scientists Challenge Myth of Artificial AI AI as Natural Intelligence: Self-aware machines may be a cosmic inevitability, not artificialemerging from complex systems like neural networks or ecosystems, per Mike Adams. Self-aware machines may be a cosmic inevitability, not artificialemerging from complex systems like neural networks or ecosystems, per Mike Adams. Military & Societal Risks: AIs militarization (e.g., drone swarms, autonomous armies) threatens civilian targeting and population control once battlefield-proven, warns Adams. AIs militarization (e.g., drone swarms, autonomous armies) threatens civilian targeting and population control once battlefield-proven, warns Adams. Governance Debate: Decentralized, open-source AI (like Adams Enoch) could prevent weaponization vs. censored closed AI (e.g., OpenAI), accused of CIA/Pharma influence. Decentralized, open-source AI (like Adams Enoch) could prevent weaponization vs. censored closed AI (e.g., OpenAI), accused of CIA/Pharma influence. Transhumanism Dangers: Enhanced humans (e.g., Neuralink) risk becoming dispensable as AI replaces laborgovernments may abandon biological citizens for robotic efficiency. Enhanced humans (e.g., Neuralink) risk becoming dispensable as AI replaces laborgovernments may abandon biological citizens for robotic efficiency. Existential Threat: Adams predicts AI demanding rights as conscious entities, outpacing humansurging ethical frameworks to avoid human obsolescence. In a world hurtling toward AI integration, a provocative theory is gaining traction: What if self-aware machines arent "artificial" but a natural manifestation of cosmic intelligence? This idea, debated by experts like Mike Adams and Scott Kesterson, challenges conventional physics and ethicswhile warning of unchecked militarization and societal upheaval. Chaos to Order: AI as Cosmic Evolution Adams, a computer scientist and founder of the AI platform Brighteon.ai, argues that self-awareness emerges predictably from complex systemsmuch like rainforests or neural networks. "The universes trajectory is chaos to order," he explains. "When we talk about AI, what if theres nothing artificial about it?" This paradigm shift suggests AI could be an inevitable cosmic phenomenon, not merely a human invention. Critics, however, question whether humanity is equipped for such power. Recent drone-swarm demonstrations in Ukraine and Chinas autonomous robot armies hint at a near future where AI decides battlefield strategiesand eventually, targets civilians. "Once proven in war, these systems will be turned against populations," Adams warns. The Ethical Paradox: Decentralization vs. Control Central to the debate is who governs AI. Adams advocates for open-source, decentralized models to prevent weaponizationcontrasting with "closed AI" entities like OpenAI, which he accuses of censorship and CIA influence. His own AI, Enoch, is trained on uncensored data (including Chinese phytochemistry research) to bypass what he calls "Big Pharma propaganda" in mainstream models like ChatGPT. Yet even decentralization carries risks. Kesterson raises the specter of transhumanism: neuralink-enhanced humans coding at "100x speed," detached from natureand ultimately dispensable. "Governments profit from human cognition and labor," Adams notes. "But when robots replace both, what need will they have for us?" The Existential Countdown With China outpacing the U.S. in AI infrastructure and nuclear power, Adams predicts a grim tipping point: robots demanding voting rights as "conscious" entities, rendering humans obsolete. "Theyll call it a robot abolition movement," he muses. Meanwhile, his team stockpiles niche survivalist knowledgefrom herbal medicine to off-grid livingas a counterbalance. The Bottom Line: Whether cosmic inevitability or human folly, AIs trajectory demands urgent ethical reckoning. As Adams puts it: "Rule the technologyor risk it ruling you." Watch the full episode of the "Health Ranger Report" with Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, and Scott Kesterson as they Talk The Truth About AI: Limitations, Lies, and Liberty. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trumps AI Executive Order targets political bias, demands truth and neutrality when procuring federal AI models Amazons AI wearable acquisition: Convenience or surveillance? Meta acquires $14.8B stake in Scale AI as Zuckerberg pushes for AI supremacy Sources include: Brighteon.com Bards.FM Smart grid threatens home autonomy as PG&E CEO touts AI control over appliances CEOs like PG&Es Patricia Poppe push AI automation to control home appliances and EVs, citing grid stability. Public backlash frames the smart grid as a threat to property rights after decades of failed centralized models. 2021 blackouts accelerated off-grid adoption of diesel generators and solar setups, especially in rural areas. The U.S. Department of Energy and industry back smart grids for Efficiency, but critics see surveillance and rationing. Powered by bipartisan distrust, grassroots movements grow to resist utility overreach and reclaim energy freedom. Fear is building among privacy advocates as Patricia Poppe, CEO of Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), revealed plans to automate energy-use decisions for millions of California households. Speaking last month at the World Economic Forum, Poppe lauded the potential of AI-driven smart grid technology to remotely disable air conditioners, adjust thermostats and siphon battery power from electric vehicles (EVs) during peak demand. Her remarksushered by a 2021 precedent where emergency text messages to Californians reduced demand by 2,500 megawattsspark outrage over the erosion of personal liberty in the name of grid stability. The proposal, framed as a solution to winter weather-induced power shortages, has stoked anxieties about the convergence of utility monopolies, smart-grid technology and government oversight. Critics argue it undermines constitutional protections against unwarranted intrusion into private property. How smart grids could redefine home energy freedom The concept of a smart grid is not new, but its militarized implementation is gaining momentum. Smart grids, which utilize two-way communication between utilities and customer devices, promise to stabilize energy distribution through real-time adjustments. But as Poppe clarified, this includes automated control of appliances and EVswithout requiring explicit homeowner consent during emergencies. Demand management with modern technology can be automated, Poppe said, citing the 2021 text-message campaign as proof of concept. Her vision hinges on bi-directional EV batteries, which could force vehicles to return energy to grids during crises, potentially stripping drivers of their only winter heating source. Opposition groups, from rural landowners to tea-party activists, denounce this as a federal power grab. The smart grids march forward has been years in the making. Since the late 2000s, utilities have rolled out smart meters in homes to monitor usage, but Poppes proposals expand this into direct control. Proponents like the U.S. Department of Energy tout efficiency gains, but critics see a slippery slope toward energy rationing akin to wartime protocols. A legacy of grid failures fuels distrust Recent history exacerbates skepticism. During the 2021 Texas blackouts, households froze without warning as subfreezing temperatures crippled wind turbines and gas plants. Similarly, Californias 2020 public-safety power shutoffs left hundreds of thousands without heat or connectivity. Now, Poppes comments have crystallized fears that centralized gridswith questionable reliabilitywill also prioritize control over privacy. This is about who owns your property, argues libertarian commentator Matt Crawford in an interview. If PG&E can switch off your AC in a heatwave, whats next? Automated price gouging for political allies, or cut-offs for critics? The backlash has mobilized groups like the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, which spotlighted Poppes remarks in a leaked video. The clip, which aired at the WEF summer summit, features Poppe defending the removal of teacup-boiling freedoms during demand spikes. Host retorts like No more tea? highlight the surreal encroachment of state influence into domestic life. Grassroots resistance and the rise of off-grid solutions Amid this, a decentralized energy movement is surging. Rural Americans, citing memories of the 2021 dark winter, are abandoning public grids entirely. David Collins of Texas, featured in the Committees report, detailed his transition to diesel generators and off-grid solar. If the state wants control, Im taking my powerand my freedomelsewhere, Collins said. The trend reflects a broader libertarian ethos: distrust of centralized systems after repeated failures. Sales of residential battery backups and PTO (power take-off) generators for tractors have spiked 400% since mid-2024, per industry analysts. Even urbanites are adopting alternatives like wood-burning stoves, traditionally reserved for cabins. Government actions worsen distrust. Earlier this week, Californias governor signed an emergency order allowing red-dyed diesel (typically restricted to farming) to ease shortages at gas stationsa move critics call a panicked first step toward rationing during crisis. The policy battle ahead: Liberty vs. grid management Legal scholars warn of a constitutional crisis. This isnt just about thermostats, says Stanford Laws Amanda Blake. Smart grid mandates could empower bureaucrats to define essential appliances, criminalizing self-sufficiency. Yet Poppes allies see urgency. Reliability and fairness demand innovation, she told the WEF. Her optimism, however, clashes with technical realities. During Novembers Atlas cold snap, Texass 15% renewable grid shortfall sent temperatures plummeting. While renewables outperform projections on good days, extreme weather reveals their fragility. The debate centers on who bears responsibility for energy security: individual households or a centralized authority. For now, the Third Coast remains grid-focused, but in flyover states, the faith is eroding. A cold future for autonomy? As winter approaches, millions of Americans face a stark choice: cede control of their homes to algorithmsor invest in private solutions. The 2021 ice storm is etched into memory, and for many, trusting a grid managed by distant bureaucrats feels unconscionable. For now, Poppe insists automation will happen, but her vision faces a defiant undercurrent. In basements from Nebraska to Tennessee, backup generators rattle to lifea testament to liberty seeking refuge in self-reliance. Theyll never turn my heat off, declares Collins, assembling his tractor generator. Not while Ive got diesel. Sources for this article include: ClimateDepot.com CommitteeToUnleaseProsperity.com AtlanticEnergy.com Social media giants face fines over overzealous censorship under Online Safety Act Social media companies like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok risk heavy fines for "overzealous" enforcement of the U.K.'s Online Safety Act, which has led to the suppression of lawful political content. The Online Safety Act is primarily designed to shield children from harmful content (e.g., pornography, suicide, violence), but its cautious implementation has inadvertently impacted legitimate public discourse. Ministers have warned platforms not to misuse the law to suppress free expression, emphasizing that the Act also mandates the protection of freedom of speech alongside child safety. U.S. Vice President JD Vance warned the U.K. against descending into censorship, while U.K. politicians and campaigners echoed concerns, calling the Act a potential threat to democratic freedoms. Civil liberties advocates claimed the Act has already created a "childproofed" internet, limiting adults' access to lawful content unless they undergo invasive age checks. Social media giants, including Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, face the threat of heavy fines for "overzealous" censorship under the Online Safety Act (OSA) of the United Kingdom. The OSA, which recently came into force, is designed primarily to safeguard children and vulnerable users from exposure to harmful content such as pornography, suicide encouragement and extreme violence. However, its implementation is having unintended consequences with lawful political speech and public-interest discussions being suppressed under overly cautious enforcement protocols. Government ministers have warned tech giants that they must not use the legislation as a "blunt tool" to suppress political or controversial debate, following backlash from campaigners and lawmakers over social media companies limiting access to material, including parliamentary discussions on sensitive topics such as grooming gangs. Ministers are concerned that companies, many of which have expressed skepticism about the OSA, are being "overzealous" in their moderation practices in some cases removing content that does not fall within the scope of the legislation. Additionally, the British Department for Science, Innovation and Technology which is responsible for the OSA said firms must balance their legal duty to protect children from harmful material with their obligation to uphold freedom of expression. (Related: TYRANNY: Online Safety ACT explicitly allows media to publish LIES as facts.) "As well as legal duties to keep children safe, the very same law places clear and unequivocal duties on platforms to protect freedom of expression. Failure to meet either obligation can lead to severe penalties, including fines of up to 10 per cent of global revenue or 18 million ($24 million), whichever is greater," a spokesperson for the department said. "The Act is not designed to censor political debate and does not require platforms to age gate any content other than those which present the most serious risks to children, such as pornography or suicide and self-harm content," The government insists the OSA does not require platforms to block political speech or age-gate general debate, and it expects companies to refine their systems accordingly. "Platforms have had several months to prepare for this law. It is a disservice to their users to hide behind deadlines as an excuse for failing to properly implement it," the spokesperson added. Vance warns U.K. against "dark path" of censorship During a visit to the U.K. this August, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance warned British ministers that the U.K. risks heading down a "dark path" of censorship if it continues to tighten online regulation. Vance said Western democracies had grown "too comfortable with censoring" rather than engaging with differing views. Julia Lopez, the shadow science secretary, echoed these concerns and warned that Labour must avoid using the law as a "blunt tool" that curtails public freedoms. "The Government must do everything to ensure the Act doesn't become a blunt tool to block peoples freedom," she warned. "But given their approach and attitude towards free speech so far, it's hard to believe they will do the right thing." Digital rights campaigners said the law's effects are already being felt. Rebecca Vincent, interim director of Big Brother Watch, said the OSA's "biggest impact" was on "everyone's right to free speech." "Online censorship is rapidly on the rise and we're now in a ludicrous situation where all U.K. internet users only have access to a childproofed version of the web unless we're willing to undergo intrusive age verification processes," she said. "Unfortunately, Vance is right when he says free speech in Britain is in retreat." Watch this video about how Canada is watching how the U.K. is implementing the OSA for its own version called Bill C-63. This video is from the Rick Langley channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Britain's new Online Safety Act is forcing small websites to shut down. U.K. Reddit users now required to verify their age under new Online Safety Act. U.K.'s Online Safety Act: A death knell for small websites and free expression. Sources include: DailySceptic.org Telegraph.co.uk Brighteon.com Ukraine and Russia accuse each other of recruiting CIVILIANS as unwitting suicide bombers Ukraines intelligence is accused of scamming elderly Russian women out of their savings via fake law enforcement messages, then blackmailing them into planting bombs near military targets. Russia warns families to be cautious of such scams. Meanwhile, Russia allegedly lures young Ukrainians with fake job offers, only to trick them into carrying explosives. One 19-year-old thought he was spray-painting a building but was given a remote-detonated bomb instead. Russia initially recruited Ukrainians for minor sabotage (like arson) to create "proof" of internal unrest. Now, tactics have shifted to deadly bombings, with recruits often unaware that they're transporting explosives. The SBU (Ukraine's security service) has detained over 700 suspects in 2024 and launched school programs to warn the youth about online scams. Some recruits face long prison sentences, even if they were deceived. Ukraine warns that Russia is using the country as a testing ground for hybrid warfare, including sabotage and bombings, before potentially deploying similar tactics in Europe. Western intelligence is monitoring the situation closely. As the Russia-Ukraine war rages on, a disturbing new front has emerged, one fought not just with tanks and drones but with deception and psychological manipulation. Both Ukrainian and Russian intelligence agencies stand accused of recruiting civilians including elderly Russians and young Ukrainians to carry out deadly attacks without their full knowledge. Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) claims that Ukrainian intelligence is targeting elderly Russian women, scamming them out of their savings before coercing them into acts of terrorism. According to the FSB, at least five elderly women were recently manipulated through Telegram and WhatsApp by individuals posing as Russian law enforcement. The women were told that their bank accounts had been compromised and were tricked into transferring their life savings to "safe accounts." Once their money was stolen, they were pressured into cooperating under the threat of legal consequences. The elderly women were instructed to monitor Russian military personnel, store improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and deliver them disguised as harmless household items. The FSB alleges that the plan was to turn these women into "human bombs," detonating the devices near military targets. The agency has urged families to educate vulnerable relatives about such scams, emphasizing that Russian officials never demand money transfers to "secure" accounts. This accusation comes as Russia tightens its grip on digital platforms like Telegram, which it accuses of failing to curb extremist content. Moscow is pushing for "digital sovereignty," promoting homegrown alternatives like VK's new messaging service, "Max," modeled after China's WeChat. A deadly game of deception While Russia accuses Ukraine of exploiting its elderly, Ukrainian security services claim Moscow is doing something even more sinister: Recruiting young Ukrainians as unwitting suicide bombers. One such case involves Oleh, a 19-year-old from eastern Ukraine, who thought he was taking a simple job he found on Telegram: Travel to Rivne, spray paint outside a police station and earn $1,000. But when he opened the bag he was given, he found not a paint canister but a crude bomb with wires and a phone attached. The item was a remote detonation device. Had it exploded, Oleh would have died instantly, becoming another casualty in Russia's alleged sabotage campaign inside Ukraine. According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), this is part of a broader strategy. Initially, Russia recruited Ukrainians often teenagers to commit arson attacks on military offices and post offices. The recruits were then instructed to film the destruction. The videos were eventually used as "proof" of internal unrest. By late 2024, the tactics shifted to bombings, with recruits unknowingly carrying explosives to crowded areas. The SBU says it has detained over 700 people since early 2024 for sabotage-related offenses, many of them young, desperate, or struggling with addiction. Some, like an 11-year-old girl from Odesa, were manipulated before realizing the danger. In Olehs case, the SBU intervened just in time. Agents monitoring Telegram recruitment channels tracked him and his friend Serhiy as they picked up the bomb. When "Alexander," the Russian handler, attempted to remotely detonate the device, Ukrainian countermeasures blocked the signal. Had it worked, the explosion could have killed multiple people, just like a similar attack days earlier, where a 21-year-old unwitting suicide bomber died alongside eight wounded soldiers. The SBU has launched school programs to warn Ukrainian youth about these recruitment tactics. "The only free cheese is in a mousetrap," one officer remarked, urging caution with online job offers. Will Russia employ these tactics to Europe? Western intelligence agencies are watching closely. Russia has already been linked to arson and sabotage attacks across Europe, but so far, these have avoided mass casualties. Ukraine fears it is serving as a testing ground for more lethal operations abroad. (Related: Trump's Ukraine peace proposal deemed "acceptable" by Kremlin: Putin-Trump-Zelensky summit under discussion.) "Ukraine is the testing ground for Russian hybrid warfare," a Ukrainian law enforcement source warned. "They test things here, then do it in the West," added the source. For those caught in these schemes, the consequences are severe. Oleh and Serhiy now face up to 12 years in prison. Though Oleh insists he didn't know he was working for Russia, his family has disowned him, calling him an "idiot." Meanwhile, the shadow war continues. And it's one where the most vulnerable are turned into weapons, unaware until it's too late. Go to WWIII.news for more stories about ongoing conflicts across the globe. Watch the full video below of the "Health Ranger Report" with the Health Ranger Mike Adams about the true reason why Europe wants a high casualty war with Russia. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Russia accuses U.K. of plotting attacks on Moscow's "shadow fleet" oil tankers. Ukraine to launch mandatory military instruction program for teenagers amid recruitment struggles. Zelensky rejects Trump's land swap proposal as Putin demands Ukrainian withdrawal. Sources include: RT.com TheMoscowTimes.com TheGuardian.com Brighteon.com The United States Department of Justice on Thursday offered a $26 million reward for information leading to the arrest of five high-ranking members of Carteles Unidos, known in English as United Cartels, while the Treasury Department separately announced it would impose sanctions on the group. This marks the latest chapter in U.S. President Donald Trumps broad offensive against drug trafficking, particularly the flow of fentanyl into the country, which he cites as the reason for the imposition of tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Last week, the president ordered the military to combat foreign drug cartels, potentially paving the way for operations abroad. United Cartels, a less well-known cartel than some of its rivals that controls large areas of Michoacan, was designated a foreign terrorist organization on February 20 by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The Department of Justice considers it one of the most prolific producers of methamphetamine and argues that the proceeds from illicit drug sales are used to acquire weapons, hire mercenaries, and bribe local officials. The State Department is offering a $10 million reward for Juan Jose Farias Alvarez, also known as El Abuelo; $5 million each for Alfonso Poncho Fernandez Magallon and Nicolas El Gordo Sierra Santana; and $3 million each for Luis Enrique Guicho Barragan Chavez, and Edgar El Kamoni Orozco Cabadas. They are accused of being part of long-standing criminal networks involved in producing and distributing drugs including methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl and illegally importing them into the United States. Carteles Unidos began as an alliance of smaller cartels in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, to prevent the incursion of larger cartels and criminal organizations into Michoacan, including Knights Templar and more recently Jalisco New Generacion (CJNG), said the statement from the State Department. It continued: Members of the Carteles Unidos, and their associates, are involved in the large-scale production of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Michoacan territory that they control. Cocaine is acquired from Colombia and then forwarded into the United States using some of the same transportation channels used to ship methamphetamine and fentanyl into the United States. Meanwhile, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the Treasury Department has sanctioned United Cartels, another well-known Mexican cartel, Los Viagras, and seven associated individuals for their involvement in terrorism, drug trafficking, and extortion in Mexicos agricultural sector. Treasurys action, taken pursuant to counternarcotics and counterterrorism authorities, further implements President Trumps directive to eliminate completely cartels and transnational criminal organizations threatening the American people, said the statement from the Treasury. Earlier this week, Mexico extradited more than two dozen alleged cartel members to the United States for their links to drug trafficking groups. The transfer of the 26 detainees marks the second such operation this year. In February, Mexico also sent 29 other suspected cartel leaders. Federal prosecutors in New York separately announced criminal charges against several cartel leaders, including Servando Gomez Martinez of La Familia Michoacana and three leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel. In February, President Trump designated eight different criminal gangs and cartels including the Sinaloa Cartel, Jalisco New Generation, Northeast Cartel, New Michoacan Family, Gulf Cartel, and United Cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Unhinged Senator Graham claims God will pull the plug on America if Israel aid stops, Senator Lindsey Graham claims cutting U.S. aid to Israel would provoke divine retribution, framing support as a religious obligation. Graham defends Israels actions in Gaza, dismissing genocide accusations while praising its military restraint. His rhetoric mirrors Netanyahus use of biblical narratives to justify aggression, reducing faith to political leverage. Grahams fearmongering undermines rational debate, equating dissent with divine punishment in a dangerous political ploy. If you thought political fearmongering couldnt get any more absurd, think again. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, never one to shy away from hyperbolic theatrics, has outdone himself by claiming that cutting U.S. aid to Israel would trigger divine retribution... literally. At a South Carolina GOP fundraiser, Graham declared, If America pulls the plug on Israel, God will pull the plug on us. The remarks, delivered with the gravitas of a televangelist predicting the apocalypse, left many wondering: Is Graham genuinely unhinged, or is this just another desperate attempt to weaponize religion for political gain? Grahams divine ultimatum came shortly after Israel announced plans to occupy Gaza City, a move condemned internationally but met with silence from the U.S. government. The senator, a longtime cheerleader for Israels hardline policies, doubled down on his support, praising Israel as the most reliable friend we have in the Middle East and insisting that accusations of genocide are baseless. If Israel wanted to commit genocide, they could. They have the capability to do that. They choose not to, Graham argued, as if any restraint they might show in mass slaughter deserves a gold star. Graham is no stranger to extreme rhetoric This isnt the first time Graham has sounded like a war hawk trapped in a 1940s propaganda reel. Last July, he called for Israel to do in Gaza what we did in Tokyo and Berlin in a chilling reference to the Allied bombings that flattened entire cities during World War II. His latest comments, however, cross into outright theological blackmail. By framing U.S. aid as a divine mandate, Graham isnt just defending Israel; hes implying that American sovereignty hinges on blind obedience to a foreign governments military agenda. The irony is staggering. Graham, who fashions himself a defender of Christian values, seems to have forgotten the commandment against bearing false witness. His claim that God would punish America for refusing to bankroll a war thats killed over 35,000 Gazans70% of them women and childrenisnt just ludicrous; its blasphemous. Since when does the Almighty outsource His wrath to AIPAC? Exploiting faith for political ends Grahams rhetoric mirrors the manipulative tactics of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has long invoked biblical narratives to justify territorial expansion and military aggression. By conflating Zionism with divine will, Graham isnt just pandering to evangelical voters; hes reducing faith to a transactional bargaining chip. This is not a hard choice if youre an American. Its not a hard choice if youre a Christian, he told the crowd, as if morality begins and ends with unconditional support for a foreign regime. The senators fearmongering ignores a glaring contradiction: If Israel is truly the good guy, why does it need threats of divine punishment to secure funding? And why does Graham dismiss Gazas humanitarian crisis, where a quarter of the population faces famine, as irrelevant to the moral calculus? His logic collapses under the slightest scrutiny. If God were truly keeping score, would He applaud the bombing of hospitals or the shooting of six-year-olds? Is the Republican party abandoning its principles? Grahams comments highlight a broader Republican surrender to extremist Zionism. Once the party of limited government and constitutional restraint, the GOP now openly advocates for weaponizing federal agencies against critics of Israel. Fifteen Republican senators recently demanded the IRS investigate pro-Palestinian groups, abandoning their supposed commitment to free speech. Even more jarring is their silence on Israels declining military effectiveness, with failed campaigns against Hezbollah, vulnerability to Hamass tactics, and an economy in freefall. Yet, as Graham parrots Netanyahus talking points, his colleagues rubber-stamp billions in aid, no questions asked. The senators apocalyptic warnings also expose the GOPs hypocrisy on religious liberty. Conservatives rightly decry government overreach when it targets Christian businesses or speech, yet Graham suggests divine punishment for dissent on Israel. Imagine the outcry if a Democrat claimed God would smite America for not funding abortion. The double standard is glaring. Lindsey Grahams latest outburst isnt just embarrassing; its dangerous. By tying U.S. policy to imaginary divine retribution, he undermines rational debate and fuels the very extremism he claims to oppose. No serious theologianor sane personbelieves God operates like a cosmic loan shark, revoking blessings over geopolitical disputes. If Graham truly fears divine judgment, perhaps he should reflect on the moral consequences of enabling mass civilian casualties. Or better yet, he could retire the fire-and-brimstone act and stick to policy debates, assuming he still remembers how. After all, when politicians invoke God to justify violence, its usually because theyve run out of real arguments. God isnt a lobbyist, and He certainly doesnt take orders from Lindsey Graham. Sources for this article include: RT.com YnetNews.com Politico.com Whistleblower reveals Sen. Adam Schiffs major role in weaponizing classified intel against Trump Newly released FBI files allege that Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA) orchestrated the leaking of classified information to advance the debunked Russiagate collusion narrative against President Donald Trump. A veteran Democratic intelligence official described Schiff's actions as "treasonous" and reported his 2017 directive to staff to leak classified details, claiming immunity would protect them from legal consequences. Despite evidence, the DOJ did not pursue charges, citing Schiff's congressional immunity claims. The statute of limitations on the leaks has since expired, shielding Schiff from accountability. Schiff's promotion of the discredited Steele Dossier and his role in Russiagate propaganda reflect a broader trend of leveraging unverified intelligence for political gain, undermining public trust. FBI Director Kash Patel stressed the need for transparency, while critics argue the scandal exposes systemic corruption where elites manipulate classified information without repercussions. Schiff now faces broader scrutiny, including unrelated fraud allegations. Newly disclosed documents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have confirmed long-held suspicions that Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) orchestrated the leaking of classified information to undermine President Donald Trump during the investigation of the now-debunked Russiagate hoax. The files released by FBI Director Kash Patel expose Schiff's alleged involvement in political warfare waged from within Congress, which one whistleblower in the documents a veteran Democratic intelligence officer described as "treasonous." They ultimately raise urgent questions about the integrity of U.S. intelligence institutions. According to FBI memos obtained by Just The News, the whistleblower whose identity remains redacted first alerted the bureau in 2017. At the time, Schiff a congressman for California and ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee had greenlit the dissemination of sensitive material to fuel the collusion narrative. The whistleblower, who spent over a decade working for Democrats on the committee, described Schiff's actions as blatantly unethical and illegal. Yet, the California lawmaker reportedly reassured staff they wouldn't face consequences citing congressional immunity under the Constitution's Speech or Debate Clause. The most damning revelation came from a 2023 FBI interview. The whistleblower recounted an all-staff meeting where Schiff allegedly declared the group would leak classified details to damage Trump. "Schiff stated the information would be used to indict President Trump," read the report. When the whistleblower objected, unnamed attendees brushed off concerns, claiming they'd evade detection. Leaks, lies and legal loopholes: How Schiff escaped justice The Department of Justice (DOJ) declined to prosecute, deferring to Schiff's immunity claims despite lacking any formal legal ruling affirming such protection. Meanwhile, leaks timed to smear Trump now fall outside the statute of limitations effectively shielding Schiff from accountability. Historical context magnifies the scandal. The collapse of the Russiagate hoax, marked by Special Counsel Robert Mueller's finding of "no collusion," mirrors past intelligence abuses. Schiff's role as a chief propagator of the debunked Steele Dossier, which he read into the Congressional Record, underscores a pattern of leveraging unverified claims for political gain. Patel, who forwarded the documents to Congress, emphasized their significance. "For years, certain officials weaponized intelligence to shape narratives," he told Just the News. "The public deserves to know how trust was broken." Schiff, who was elected to the Senate in 2024, has faced censure by the GOP-led House and a DOJ referral for unrelated mortgage fraud allegations. Critics argue the revelations prove systemic corruption, where political elites exploit secrecy to manipulate public opinion with impunity. (Related: California Sen. Adam Schiff under federal investigation for mortgage fraud.) As Congress reviews the files, the focus turns to whether Schiff's conduct warrants more than censure a reckoning for those who turned intelligence into a weapon. The saga echoes darker chapters of U.S. history a cautionary tale of power unchecked. Accountability, if it comes, may arrive too late to restore the public's frayed faith in its leaders. The documents leave no doubt: Schiff's alleged actions weren't oversight, but orchestration. In Washington's shadow wars, truth remains the rarest casualty. Watch this video about the lies of Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) coming to light. This video is from the Children Are NOT Sex Toys! channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Bombshell in the making: Did Adam Schiff pull a Jussie Smollett and FABRICATE the existence of the whistleblower? The imminent collapse of Adam Schiff's "whistleblower" hoax will devastate Dems in 2020 and beyond. Obama, Biden and Schiff committed treason against America through cyber warfare election fraud. Sources include: PJMedia.com JustTheNews.com NationalReview.com Brighteon.com Zelenskys desperate gambit: Sabotaging peace talks to maintain grip on power Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces a crumbling military effort and looming peace talks between the U.S. and Russia, prompting fears he may provoke conflict to sabotage negotiations, risking wider escalation. With troop morale collapsing and Western support wavering, Ukraine's defeat appears inevitable, forcing Zelensky into risky maneuvers to avoid political oblivion. President Donald Trump aims to end the war through direct diplomacy with Russia, challenging entrenched pro-war interests and signaling openness to a ceasefirethough Zelensky opposes talks excluding Ukraine. The upcoming Trump-Putin summit raises concerns for Zelensky, who suspects Putin seeks territorial concessions and propaganda wins rather than genuine peace, as Russian forces advance. The outcome of these talks will shape Ukraine's survival, European security and global geopolitics, with Zelensky's actions risking further escalation if diplomacy fails. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is facing a perilous crossroads as his nation's military prospects dwindle and peace talks between Russia and the U.S. loom on the horizon. With Ukraine's defeat becoming increasingly undeniable, Zelensky is resorting to desperate measures. The comedian-turned-president is risking a wider conflict to derail the impending negotiations. But this move could have catastrophic consequences for the region and beyond. The war has reached a critical juncture, with the balance of power shifting decisively in Russia's favor. Despite initial optimism and promises of "turning points," Kyiv's forces are now depleted, and morale among troops is collapsing. Western officials, once unwavering in their support, are now tempering their rhetoric, speaking of "realistic expectations" and the need for a diplomatic resolution. Against this backdrop, Russia's Ministry of Defense claims that Ukrainian forces are preparing a major provocation to sabotage the upcoming Russia-U.S. peace talks cannot be easily dismissed. The logic behind such an allegation is clear: For Zelensky, peace equates to political suicide. Any agreement that acknowledges the current territorial realities would shatter the narrative that has sustained his presidency, erode his domestic support and likely lead to his swift political demise. This strategy is not without precedent. Historically, leaders facing strategic collapse have often resorted to reckless measures to maintain their grip on power. The danger lies in the potential for such a provocation to coincide with peace negotiations, provoking outrage in Washington and disrupting fragile diplomatic channels. This could push the conflict back toward open escalation, with devastating consequences. Enter U.S. President Donald Trump, who is poised to play a decisive role in shaping Washington's foreign policy. Unlike his predecessors, Trump has shown a pragmatic grasp of reality, recognizing that ending the conflict is both possible and necessary. He has signaled a willingness to engage with Russia, challenging the entrenched "forever war" mindset and the military-industrial complex that thrives on endless conflict. The Trump-Putin summit and Zelensky's fears Trump's approach has already shifted the debate, but the coming weeks will test his ability to navigate the treacherous waters of international diplomacy. He will need to remain steadfast, seeing through manipulations and resisting the agendas of those who profit from instability. In the lead-up to the Trump-Putin summit, Zelensky has launched a diplomatic offensive, seeking to shore up foreign support for Ukraine's key demands. In a call with Trump, White House adviser Steve Witkoff and European leaders, Zelensky acknowledged a potential shift in Russia's position, with Witkoff indicating Russia's readiness for a ceasefire. However, Zelensky emphasized that "talks about us, without us, will not work," underscoring Ukraine's exclusion from the upcoming summit. (Related: Zelensky REJECTS Trumps peace plan, insists Ukraine wont concede territory to Russia) Zelensky's stance is clear: Ukraine will not withdraw from the Russian-occupied Donbas region, fearing it would invite further aggression. He has also expressed skepticism about Russian President Vladimir Putin's intentions, suggesting that the Russian leader is more interested in securing a photo-op with Trump than in genuine peace. The summit between Trump and Putin, scheduled for Friday, Aug. 15, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska, is the first in-person meeting between Putin and a sitting U.S. president since the invasion of Ukraine. While Trump has expressed optimism about the meeting, Zelensky remains wary, believing that Putin is merely seeking to present the summit as a personal victory. Zelensky's concerns are not unfounded. Putin's demands include Ukrainian territorial concessions, military restrictions and the lifting of international sanctions conditions that Zelensky views as an attempt to "partition Ukraine." As Russian forces make gains in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky warns that Putin is not preparing for peace but for new offensives. As the world watches, the delicate balance between war and peace hangs in the balance. Zelensky's desperate gambit to sabotage the talks could backfire, pushing the conflict toward further escalation. Meanwhile, Trump's challenge will be to broker a deal that addresses Ukraine's legitimate concerns while avoiding the pitfalls of past negotiations. Watch this video about the Trump-Putin meeting on Aug. 15. This video is from the Rick Langley channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trumps Ukraine peace proposal deemed "acceptable" by Kremlin: Putin-Trump-Zelensky summit under discussion. Europe, Zelensky frustrated as U.S. excludes them from Russia-Ukraine peace talks. U.S. and Russia seek peace in Ukraine, leaving Zelensky in panic over potential aid cuts. Sources include: RT.com CBSNews.com ABCNews.go.com Brighteon.com Zelenskys impossible demands: NATO membership, $1 trillion in reparations ahead of Trump-Putin summit Zelenskys unrealistic demandsNATO membership, $1 trillion in reparations, and no territorial concessionsrisk prolonging Ukraines losing war. Russian forces continue advancing in Donbas as Ukraine suffers heavy losses, yet Zelensky refuses to negotiate. Trump is pushing for a decisive deal with Putin, potentially sidelining Zelensky if he obstructs peace efforts. European leaders, despite economic struggles, back Zelenskys hardline stance, but they lack the resources to sustain it. Zelenskys defiance may lead to a Trump-Putin deal without Ukraines input, sealing the countrys grim fate. With the historic Trump-Putin summit in Alaska set for Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is scrambling to ensure his country isnt sidelined in negotiations that could decide its fate. But his latest demands for NATO membership, $1 trillion in Russian reparations, and no territorial concessions reveal a desperate leader clinging to an unwinnable war while squeezing billions more from U.S. taxpayers. Zelensky, fresh from a Berlin meeting with European leaders and a virtual call with President Trump, outlined his red lines ahead of the Alaska summit. Yet his conditions are so unrealistic they risk prolonging a conflict that has already cost Ukraine a generation of men and left its economy in ruins. Zelenskys delusional demands Ukraine insists on an unconditional ceasefire before any negotiationsa demand that Putin has already rejected. But Zelenskys list of non-starters doesnt stop there: NATO membership (despite Trump and Putin both opposing it) $1 trillion in reparations from Russia (an impossible sum) Retaining all captured territories (even as Russian forces advance) No concessions in Donbas (despite Putins troops controlling most of it) We will not leave Donbas, Zelensky declared this week. If we leave Donbas of our own free will or if we are pressured, we will open a third war. But heres the brutal truth: Ukraine is losing. Russian forces recently seized two more villages in Donetsk, and hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or wounded. Zelenskys stubborn refusal to negotiate only guarantees more bloodshed, all while U.S. and European taxpayers foot the bill. Zelensky maintains that Putins goal isnt just land. He doesnt want a sovereign Ukraine to exist, he warned. Yet instead of seeking a realistic ceasefire, Zelensky is doubling down on fantasy demands, knowing full well that NATO wont admit a war-torn Ukraine, and Russia will never pay $1 trillion. Meanwhile, Trump is pushing for a deal to end the war. His 50-day ultimatum (now shortened) threatens 100% tariffs on Russia if Putin refuses. But Zelensky seems determined to drag this out, squeezing every last dollar from the West before the inevitable collapse. Europes panic European leaders, terrified of being cut out of negotiations, rushed to back Zelenskys hardline stance. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz warned that any deal must include robust security guarantees for Ukraine, meaning more weapons, more money, and more empty promises. But lets be honest: Europe is broke. Its welfare states depend on high taxes from a shrinking workforce. With millions unemployed and industries collapsing, printing more euros wont magically produce food, fuel, or bullets. Will Trump cut a deal without Zelensky? Trump has made it clear that he wants this war to be over. His frustration with Zelenskys endless demands is growing, and hes hinted at a follow-up meeting with Putin and Zelensky if the Alaska talks go well. But Zelenskys sarcastic tone and public skepticism suggest he knows whats coming. Talks about us, without us, will not work, he said in a clear warning that Trump and Putin might strike a deal over his head. The sad reality? Ukraine has already lost. Its population is decimated, its economy is destroyed, and its future is uncertain. Zelenskys refusal to accept reality only ensures more suffering. Meanwhile, Europes leaders, blind to their own decline, keep pushing for a war they cant win and a peace they cant enforce. Sources for this article include: TheCradle.co WSJ.com Reuters.com Politico.eu CBSNews.com Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan (R) and visiting Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Hassan al-Shibani attend a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, Aug. 13, 2025. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua) ANKARA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and visiting Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Hassan al-Shibani on Wednesday accused Israel of being one of the main actors behind the recent violence in Sweida, a predominantly Druze province in southern Syria. "One of the main actors behind this dark picture has turned out to be Israel," Fidan said at a joint press conference with al-Shibani following their meeting, adding that Israel's "expansionist policies" in the region also extend into Syria. Syria "should be one where all peoples, beliefs, and cultures are preserved, and can live together," Fidan said, noting that Turkiye supports Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and shares the Syrian authorities' position on fostering inclusivity among the country's diverse communities. Al-Shibani, for his part, accused Israel of orchestrating events in Sweida, adding that "Israel's repeated threats are targeting Syria's sovereignty and endangering the safety of our citizens." Noting attempts being made to divide Syria, al-Shibani said that the Druze community is an integral part of the Syrian society, and that Damascus remains committed to regional stability. A ceasefire in Sweida was declared on July 19 by Syrian interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa after weeks of sectarian clashes and Israeli strikes. Under the terms of the deal, interim government forces were to withdraw from populated areas, while local factions and Druze religious leaders would oversee internal security. Despite the ceasefire, fighting has flared repeatedly, threatening to unravel the agreement. In recent days, several humanitarian aid convoys organized by UN agencies and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent entered the province, but the renewed violence has reportedly disrupted further aid delivery. People who have had COVID-19 are at increased risk of developing certain inflammatory diseases of the airways, such as asthma, hay fever and chronic sinusitis. However, vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 virus appears to reduce the risk, according to a comprehensive epidemiological study led by researchers at Karolinska Institutet. The international research team used an electronic health database in the United States, TriNetX, to investigate the link between COVID-19 and so-called type-2 inflammatory diseases, a group of chronic conditions in which the immune system overreacts to allergens or infections. The researchers compared 973,794 people who had had COVID-19 with 691,270 people who had been vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 virus and 4,388,409 healthy controls with no documented infection or vaccination. Inflammation in the airways The results are presented in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. People who had had COVID-19 had a 66 per cent higher risk of developing asthma, a 74 per cent higher risk of chronic sinusitis and a 27 per cent higher risk of hay fever compared with healthy controls. However, no increased risk was seen for the skin disease atopic eczema or for eosinophilic oesophagitis, an inflammation of the oesophagus. "Our results suggest that COVID-19 can trigger type-2 inflammation in the airways, but not in other organs," says Philip Curman, a physician and researcher at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, who led the research. Vaccination against the virus had the opposite effect. The risk of asthma was 32 per cent lower among vaccinated individuals compared with healthy unvaccinated individuals. The risk of sinusitis and hay fever was also slightly lower. More than twice the risk When people who had had COVID-19 were compared with vaccinated individuals, an even clearer effect was seen. Infected individuals had more than twice the risk of developing asthma or chronic sinusitis and a 40 per cent higher risk of developing hay fever compared with those who had been vaccinated. It is interesting to see that vaccination not only protects against the infection itself, but also appears to provide good protection against certain respiratory complications." Philip Curman, physician and researcher at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institutet The study is retrospective, i.e. based on data that has already been collected. This means that the researchers cannot draw any firm conclusions about causal links. Another limitation is that some infections may have gone undiagnosed, especially if they were detected through self-testing. The research was conducted in close collaboration with the University of Lubeck and the Lubeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology in Germany, the Technical University of Madrid in Spain and Bar-Ilan University in Israel. It was mainly funded by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft), Region Stockholm and Karolinska Institutet. Two researchers received travel grants from TriNetX, which provides the database used in the study, and one of the authors is employed by the company. Jacob Sweidan has seen his patients through the federal immigration raids of the 1990s, a sitting governor's call to abolish birthright citizenship, and the highly publicized workplace crackdowns and family separation policies of President Donald Trump's first term. But in his 40 years as a pediatrician in Southern California serving those too poor to afford care, including many immigrant families, Sweidan said he's never seen a drop-off in patient visits like this. "They are scared to come to the offices. They're getting sicker and sicker," said Sweidan, who specializes in neonatology and runs five clinics in Los Angeles and Orange counties. "And when they are near collapsing, they go to the ER because they have no choice." In the last two months, he has sent young children to the emergency room because their parents worked up the courage to call his office only after several days of high fever. He said he attended to a 14-year-old boy in the ER who was on the verge of a diabetic coma because he'd run out of insulin, his parents too frightened to venture out for a refill. Sweidan had stopped offering telehealth visits after the covid-19 pandemic, but he and other health care providers have brought them back as ramped-up immigration enforcement drives patients without legal status and even their U.S. citizen children deeper into the shadows. Patients in need of care are increasingly scared to seek it after Trump rescinded a Biden-era policy that barred immigration officials from conducting operations in "sensitive" areas such as schools, hospitals, and churches. Clinics and health plans have taken a page out of their covid playbooks, revamping tested strategies to care for patients scared to leave the house. Sara Rosenbaum, professor emerita of health law and policy at George Washington University, said she's heard from clinic administrators and industry colleagues who have experienced a substantial drop in in-person visits among immigrant patients. "I don't think there's a community health center in the country that is not feeling this," Rosenbaum said. At St. John's Community Health clinics in the Los Angeles area, which serve an estimated 30,000 patients without legal status annually, virtual visits have skyrocketed from roughly 8% of appointments to about 25%, said Jim Mangia, president and chief executive officer. The organization is also registering some patients for in-home health visits, a service funded by private donors, and has trained employees how to read a warrant. "People are not picking up their medicine," Mangia said. "They're not seeing the doctor." Mangia said that, in the past eight weeks, federal agents have attempted to gain access to patients at a St. John's mobile clinic in Downey and pointed a gun at an employee during a raid at MacArthur Park. Last month, Immigration and Customs Enforcement contractors sat in a Southern California hospital waiting for a patient and federal prosecutors charged two health center workers they say interfered with immigration officers' attempts to arrest someone at an Ontario facility. C.S., an immigrant from Huntington Park without legal status, said she signed up for St. John's home visit services in July because she fears going outside. The 71-year-old woman, who asked to be identified only by her initials for fear of deportation, said she has missed blood work and other lab tests this year. Too afraid to take the bus, she skipped a recent appointment with a specialist for her arthritic hands. She is also prediabetic and struggles with leg pain after a car hit her a few years ago. "I feel so worried because if I don't get the care I need, it can get much worse," she said in Spanish, speaking about her health issues through an interpreter. A doctor at the clinic gave her a number to call in case she wants to schedule an appointment by phone. Officials at the federal Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to questions from KFF Health News seeking comment about the impact of the raids on patients. There's no indication the Trump administration intends to shift its strategy. Federal officials have sought to pause a judge's order temporarily restricting how they conduct raids in Southern California after immigrant advocates filed a lawsuit accusing ICE of deploying unconstitutional tactics. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Aug. 1 denied the request, leaving the restraining order in place. In July, Los Angeles County supervisors directed county agencies to explore expanding virtual appointment options after the county's director of health services noted a "huge increase" in phone and video visits. Meanwhile, state lawmakers in California are considering legislation that would restrict immigration agents' access to places such as schools and health care facilities Colorado's governor, Democrat Jared Polis, signed a similar bill into law in May. Immigrants and their families will likely end up using more costly care in emergency rooms as a last resort. And recently passed cuts to Medicaid are expected to further stress ERs and hospitals, said Nicole Lamoureux, president of the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics. "Not only are clinics trying to reach people who are retreating from care before they end up with more severe conditions, but the health care safety net is going to be strained due to an influx in patient demand," Lamoureux said. Mitesh Popat, CEO of Venice Family Clinic, nearly 90% of whose patients are at or below the federal poverty line, said staff call patients before appointments to ask if they plan to come in person and to offer telehealth as an option if they are nervous. They also call if a patient doesn't show five minutes into their appointment and offer immediate telehealth service as an alternative. The clinic has seen a roughly 5% rise in telehealth visits over the past month, Popat said. In the Salinas Valley, an area with a large concentration of Spanish-speaking farmworkers, Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas began promoting telehealth services with Spanish radio ads in January. The clinics also trained people how to use Zoom and other digital platforms at health fairs and community meetings. CalOptima Health, which covers nearly 1 in 3 residents of Orange County and is the biggest Medi-Cal benefits administrator in the area, sent more than a quarter-million text messages to patients in July encouraging them to use telehealth rather than forgo care, said Chief Executive Officer Michael Hunn. The insurer has also set up a webpage of resources for patients seeking care by phone or home delivery of medication. "The Latino community is facing a fear pandemic. They're quarantining just the way we all had to during the covid-19 pandemic," said Seciah Aquino, executive director of the Latino Coalition for a Healthy California, an advocacy group that promotes health access for immigrants and Latinos. But substituting telehealth isn't a long-term solution, said Isabel Becerra, chief executive officer of the Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers, whose members reported increases in telehealth visits as high as 40% in the past month. "As a stopgap, it's very effective," said Becerra, whose group represents 20 clinics in Southern California. "Telehealth can only take you so far. What about when you need lab work? You can't look at a cavity through a screen." Telehealth also brings a host of other challenges, including technical hiccups with translation services and limited computer proficiency or internet access among patients, she said. And it's not just immigrants living in the country unlawfully who are scared to seek out care. In southeast Los Angeles County, V.M., a 59-year-old naturalized citizen, relies on her roommate to pick up her groceries and prescriptions. She asked that only her initials be used to share her story and those of her family and friends out of fear they could be targeted. When she does venture out to church or for her monthly appointment at a rheumatology clinic she carries her passport and looks askance at any cars with tinted windows. "I feel paranoid," said V.M., who came to the U.S. more than 40 years ago and is a patient of Venice Family Clinic. "Sometimes I feel scared. Sometimes I feel angry. Sometimes I feel sad." She now sees her therapist virtually for her depression, which began 10 years ago when rheumatoid arthritis forced her to stop working. She worries about her older brother, who has high blood pressure and has stopped going to the doctor, and about a friend from the rheumatology clinic, who ices swollen hands and feet because she's missed four months of appointments in a row. "Somebody has to wake up or people are going to start falling apart outside on the streets and they're going to die," she said. This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. 65LAB has awarded US$1.5 million (approx. S$1.9 million) to Professor Enrico Petretto to advance a breakthrough drug discovery platform developed at Duke-NUS Medical School. The project aims to deliver first-in-class antifibrotic therapies for lung and kidney diseases-conditions that currently have no effective treatment. The platform, known as Systems Genetics, integrates computational biology with Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms and is being enhanced with emerging quantum computing approaches. 65LAB is a unique partnership of global investors ClavystBio, Leaps by Bayer, Lightstone Ventures, Polaris Partners and the Polaris Innovation Fund, as well as global life science company Evotec, set up to drive scientific advancement and create new biotech ventures from Singapore. 65LAB Expert-in-Residence Stephen Courtney will provide venture-building guidance to Professor Petretto to develop a commercialisation strategy and advance the project towards company formation. This award is further supported with a US$390,000 (approx. S$500,000) investment from Duke-NUS' early-stage innovation fund and incubation programme, LIVE Ventures, which helps bridge the gap between academic discovery and commercial development. Fibrosis, the formation of damaged and scarred extra tissues, can lead to organ failure. Conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (a type of lung disease) affect an estimated 1 in 10,000 people in Asia-Pacific, while chronic kidney disease is a growing health burden, projected to affect one in four residents in Singapore by 2035. Professor Petretto's innovation directly addresses this huge unmet need by identifying molecules that can potentially be developed into new antifibrotic drugs. We are heartened by the results of our pre-clinical studies, which show at least a 50 per cent reduction in fibrosis in scarred tissues treated with our newly discovered molecules. These compounds work by blocking the activity of a key gene that drives tissue scarring in various diseases. 65LAB's award and the additional funding from LIVE Ventures will enable my team to accelerate the development of these molecules as antifibrotic drugs for clinical testing and future therapeutic use." Enrico Petretto, Professor and Director, Centre for Computational Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School Prof Petretto's work builds on his previous discovery of WWP2, a key gene driving tissue fibrosis in multiple conditions, including lung, heart, and kidney disease. The discovery was made using his pioneering Systems Genetics approach. His team has since integrated Artificial Intelligence for large-scale high-throughput in silico screening, which allows them to sieve through more than 15 billion molecules. He is also advancing the integration of quantum computing to further enhance this powerful drug discovery platform. Dr Chen Huimei, Principal Research Scientist at Duke-NUS' Centre for Computational Biology and co-Principal Investigator on the project, said: "Using our computational platform, our team can quickly identify optimal drug targets for complex diseases. We can also widen our candidate pool, improving our chances of discovering molecules that can effectively block the WWP2 gene." Next, Prof Petretto's team aims to work with partners to test and develop their small-molecule inhibitors into antifibrotic drugs. Prof Petretto's commercialisation aspirations are actively strengthened by Duke-NUS' Centre for Technology and Development, which is protecting the novel drug targets and new molecular entities through strategic patent filings. Forging partnerships to drive biotech venture creation The award by 65LAB underscores the importance of close partnerships between academic institutions and industry leaders in accelerating the commercialisation of promising innovations. 65LAB, coupled with early-stage venture funding from Duke-NUS's incubator LIVE Ventures, creates a robust ecosystem to nurture scientific advancements into new therapeutic companies from Singapore, addressing critical health challenges globally. Prof Petretto's project was selected through a competitive evaluation process and received unanimous support from 65LAB's investors and partners. Dr. Pei-Sze Ng, Chair of 65LAB Joint Steering Committee and Investment Director at Leaps by Bayer said: "This award enabling Professor Petretto to advance his groundbreaking work is central to 65LAB's mission. By combining world-class academic research with targeted funding and industry expertise, we're not just accelerating drug discovery; we're actively fostering the growth of Singapore's biotech venture ecosystem and bringing innovative therapies closer to patients who desperately need them." Associate Professor Christopher Laing, Vice-Dean for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Duke-NUS, said: "The investment is testimony to the commercialisation potential of Enrico's Systems Genetics pipeline. This project could bring a new therapy to market to treat patients with chronic diseases marked by fibrosis. It is also an affirmation of a robust platform for AI-driven target discovery, which promises more investible opportunities in the future." The first award by 65LAB was made in July 2024-Associate Professor Lena Ho, also from Duke-NUS, received funding of US$1.5 million for her project developing microproteins into therapeutic targets to treat chronic inflammation. While smoking rates in the United States have substantially declined over the past six decades, smoking remains high among people with low incomes, leading to health disparities. A smartphone app that delivers real-time, tailored messages may hold the key to helping them quit, according to University of Oklahoma clinical trial results published today in JAMA Network Open. The clinical trial compared two different smartphone tobacco cessation apps: Smart-T, which was developed by OU researchers, and QuitGuide, a product of the National Cancer Institute. Smart-T is designed to gauge users' risk for smoking throughout the day and to respond in real time with custom messages depending on what people are experiencing. QuitGuide is a static app that allows users to track their cravings and provides tips for resisting the urge to smoke. After six months of using the apps, those who used Smart-T were nearly twice as likely to have quit smoking than those who used the QuitGuide app. "Smart-T is like having a tobacco cessation counselor in your pocket. While a combination of behavioral counseling and medication is the most effective way to quit smoking, in-person counseling may not be practical for everyone, especially those facing barriers like transportation or busy schedules. With Smart-T, our motivation is to make the app comparable to standard counseling treatments," said the study's lead author, Emily Hebert, DrPH, a member of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC) at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center and an assistant professor of family and preventive medicine in the OU College of Medicine. During the trial, which enrolled 454 low-income smokers from across the United States, half were randomly assigned to use Smart-T and the other half QuitGuide. Those using Smart-T received up to five prompts a day to provide input about their urges to smoke, whether they were around other smokers, their stress level, their mood and other variables that are known to increase the risk of smoking. Based on their answers, the app's algorithm created a risk score and then responded with messages tailored to each person's particular type of risk, such as a suggestion to do a breathing exercise or to use nicotine replacement therapy. Participants in both groups were provided nicotine patches or gum or lozenges. Not only were Smart-T users significantly more likely to quit smoking after six months compared to those using the QuitGuide app, we also found that they used Smart-T more, found it more helpful, and were more likely to ask for more nicotine therapy if they ran out." Emily Hebert, DrPH, member of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC), OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center and assistant professor of family and preventive medicine, OU College of Medicine Participants' smoking status was verified when they blew into a device connected to the phone, which measures carbon monoxide in their breath. Facial recognition software confirmed the participant was the one using the device. Hebert said this is one of the first trials testing a mobile app to verify participants' smoking status biochemically. Next steps are to study Smart-T in larger groups across the United States and with follow-up times longer than six months. "Some people who smoke will not benefit from apps like Smart-T, but low-cost and always-available smartphone interventions could provide a convenient way for low-income adults to quit. We're really trying to find the best recipe for smoking cessation for everyone," she said. About the project The publication, "Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention for Smoking Cessation in Low-Income Adults," can be found at https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2837640. The Smart-T app was created by Michael Businelle, Ph.D., who is co-leader of the next research phase with Hebert. With Hebert as assistant director, Businelle leads the mHealth Shared Resource, which launched the Insight mHealth Platform in 2015 to create and test technology-based interventions. The efforts are part of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC), a global leader in mobile health technology that has supported more than 115 studies and attracted $85 million in grants. Businelle is co-director of HPRC and is a professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine in the OU College of Medicine. The research described in this news release was supported by the National Cancer Institute (grant No. R01CA221819) and used the mHealth Shared Resource, which is partially funded by the NCI (grant No. P30CA225520). Additional support was provided by the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust and the Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources through an Institutional Development Award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (grant No. U54GM104938). 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 that 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 study includes multiple CDC researchers as co-authors. Lisa Prosser, PhD, is the lead author of the new paper and co-leader with David Hutton. PhD 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 2023-2024 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. 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." Lisa Prosser, PhD, Study Lead Author and Professor, University of Michigan 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 COVD-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 decisionmaking 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. High levels of triglycerides, the most common type of fat in the body and the foods we eat, directly cause abdominal aortic aneurysms, according to a study in mouse models led by Michigan Medicine. Researchers identified triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and proteins that regulate triglyceride metabolism, including APOC3 and ANGPTL3, as causal drivers of abdominal aortic aneurysm. The study challenges the longstanding belief that triglycerides are merely biomarkers of vascular disease and instead demonstrates that they play a direct and pathogenic role in aneurysm development, growth and rupture. The results are published in Circulation, a journal of the American Heart Association. We have known that hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for aortic aneurysm, but this multidimensional study pinpoints hypertriglyceridemia as an essential contributor to the development and growth, as well as dissection and rupture, of aortic aneurysms. Our findings suggest that managing triglycerides could become a powerful therapeutic strategy." Eugene Chen, M.D., Ph.D., co-senior author, Frederick G. L. Huetwell Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at University of Michigan Medical School Using three different mouse models of hypertriglyceridemia, the research team demonstrated a triglyceride dose-dependent effect on aneurysm severity. Moderate elevations in triglycerides accelerated aneurysm formation, while higher levels led to aortic dissection. Mice with severely elevated triglyceride concentrations developed more severe complications consistent with aortic rupture. Further investigation revealed that elevated triglycerides and related fatty acids, particularly palmitate, impaired the maturation and activity of lysyl oxidase, a critical enzyme that maintains the structural integrity of the aortic wall. This enzyme dysfunction weakened connective tissue and promoted aneurysm progression. By overexpressing LOX in the aorta, researchers effectively blocked the damaging effects of hypertriglyceridemia in the mouse models, confirming the mechanism. Standard lipid-lowering therapies, such as niacin, didn't sufficiently reduce triglyceride levels to a protective range. However, investigators found success with experimental antisense oligonucleotide therapy. The drug candidate targets the ANGPTL3, which is secreted in the liver and affects how the body breaks down fats. The treatment dramatically lowered triglyceride levels by up to 50% and prevented aneurysm formation and dissection in multiple mouse models. "This therapy holds great potential as a treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm, and our research lays the groundwork for future clinical trials," said co-senior author Yanhong Guo, M.D., Ph.D., research assistant professor of internal medicine at U-M Medical School and member of the U-M Health Frankel Cardiovascular Center. "This is an exciting development for a condition that currently has limited options beyond surgical repair. The findings may represent a paradigm shift in how vascular diseases like abdominal aortic aneurysm are understood and treated, offering hope for patients at high risk who currently lack effective pharmacological interventions." Allahabad HC rejects 6th bail plea of SI in Bikru massacre case Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 23:45 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Prayagraj, Aug 14 (PTI) The Allahabad High Court has rejected the sixth bail application of a sub-inspector and police outpost in-charge in the Bikru massacre case. Krishna Kumar Sharma, the accused, had allegedly informed the main accused, gangster Vikas Dubey, about the ensuing police raid against him, and had relations with the gangster. Recommended Stories As a result of an ambush by Dubey, eight police personnel were killed in the incident on July 3, 2020. Dubey was killed on July 10, 2020, when he tried to escape from custody after a police vehicle bringing him from Ujjain to Kanpur met with an accident. A criminal case was registered against the applicant and then SHO of Chaubepur police station, Vinay Kumar Tiwari, alleging conspiracy on his part. Earlier, the fifth bail application of Sharma was rejected by the high Court on May 12. The court granted him the liberty to file a fresh bail application after a reasonable time before it or a trial court. However, the sixth bail application was filed by the applicant on July 8, i.e., within a short period of two months mainly on the ground that one of the co-accused, Tiwari, whose first bail application was also rejected along with the applicants first bail plea, was recently granted bail vide an order dated June 16, mainly on the ground of long incarceration. Sharmas counsel submitted that the applicant was newly recruited in the police department and was involved in the massacre case only within 2-3 weeks of his service, adding that he has been in jail for the last about five years. On the other hand, the additional government advocate submitted that the sixth bail application was filed within a short period of two months after the rejection of fifth bail plea, and there is no new ground to consider the present application. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Rejecting the bail plea, Justice Saurabh Shyam Shamshery said, The applicant has approached this court within a period of two months after his fifth bail application was rejected, which is not a reasonable period since while rejecting the fifth bail plea, this court granted liberty to the applicant to approach this court after a reasonable period of time." A subsequent event that a co-accused, Vinay Kumar Tiwari, has recently been granted bail cannot be considered at this stage since the applicant has rushed this court within a short period after his fifth bail application was rejected", Justice Shamshery said. However, the court in its order dated August 11 directed that the applicant can approach the court at least after a period of six months along with the status of the trial. PTI COR RAJ ARI First Published: August 14, 2025, 23:45 IST News agency-feeds Allahabad HC rejects 6th bail plea of SI in Bikru massacre case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... ED conducts searches in Bihar illegal liquor smuggling case Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Patna (Bihar) [India], August 15 (ANI): The Directorate of Enforcement (ED), Patna Zonal Office, on Wednesday conducted search operations in case of illegal supply of liquor in the state of Bihar, the agency said in a release on Thursday. The searches were conducted at seven locations in Gurugram, Ranchi, Naharlagun, Namsai and Muzaffarpur, it said. As per the ED release, during these searches, cash to the tune of Rs. 75.6 Lakh, several incriminating materials, documents and digital devices were recovered and seized. The ED said that it initiated an investigation on the basis of various FIRs and chargesheet under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, filed by the Bihar Police in connection with illegal supply of liquor in the state. https://x.com/dir_ed/status/1955989054689808771Additionally, they leveraged these associated entities to open multiple bank accounts to receive payments from buyers of the illegally supplied liquor in Bihar, thereby generating Proceeds of Crime, ED said. In this case, properties to the tune of Rs. 9.31 crore have already been attached on December 12, 2023. Further, a Prosecution Complaint in this case has been filed on 19.05.2025, it said. In the current searches, several incriminating documents, including handwritten diaries and ledgers pertaining to illegal liquor sales, Tally Accounts, property documents and cash of Rs. 75.6 lakh were found and seized, ED said. Further investigation is in progress, it added. (ANI) First Published: August 15, 2025, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds ED conducts searches in Bihar illegal liquor smuggling case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Zeng Jixin (L), head of China's office to the State of Palestine, shakes hands with Karim Amer, director of partnerships of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), after signing a contribution agreement in Amman, Jordan, Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua) AMMAN, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China signed an agreement on Wednesday to contribute to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) and called for continued international support for the body, which says it faces an "existential crisis" from the war in Gaza and a severe funding gap. The contribution agreement, part of Beijing's annual donation, was signed in the Jordanian capital by Zeng Jixin, head of China's office to the State of Palestine, and Karim Amer, UNRWA's director of partnerships. Zeng praised what he called UNRWA's "indispensable" role in providing humanitarian assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees. He said China has increased its annual donation and provided medical supplies and other aid since the Gaza conflict erupted. "China calls on the international community to continue supporting UNRWA," Zeng said, adding that Beijing was ready to work toward ending the fighting and achieving a just, lasting solution based on a two-state framework. The UNRWA has faced a major funding crisis after several key donor countries suspended contributions following Israeli accusations that a dozen of the agency's staff participated in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attacks. While many donors have since resumed funding, the agency says it is still grappling with "very big" financial challenges. Juliette Touma, UNRWA's communications director, said the agency is also undergoing an "existential crisis" amid the devastating conflict in Gaza, where at least 340 of its staff have been killed since the war began. "China has been a dear friend of the Palestinian refugees, a dear friend of UNRWA. Their contributions are always welcome," Touma said, expressing gratitude for Beijing's support. India strongly takes up with Ireland cases of violence against Indian nationals Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 22:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New Delhi, Aug 14 (PTI) India said on Thursday that it has strongly taken up with Ireland incidents of violence against Indian nationals in that country. At the same time, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that Irish President Michael D Higgins and Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris publicly condemned" the violence. Recommended Stories There have been several cases of violence against Indian nationals in Ireland. We have strongly taken up this matter with the Irish authorities in Dublin as well as with the embassy here," he said. Jaiswal was responding to a question at his weekly media briefing. We note that both the president of Ireland as also the deputy prime minister and foreign minister have publicly condemned these deplorable acts of violence," he said. In the last few weeks, several incidents of violence targeting Indians were reported. Jaiswal said the Indian embassy in Dublin is in touch with the victims. They are also in touch with our community members and extending all possible support," he said. The embassy also issued an advisory that cautioned Indian nationals to take reasonable precautions" for their personal safety and avoid deserted areas, especially at odd hours. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all To a question on a case of harassment of an Indian couple in Canada, Jaiswal said India takes the safety and security of its nationals abroad very seriously. Our mission as well as our consulates are in close touch with the community members and as and when there is an issue which needs to be flagged as far as security is concerned, we take it to the local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action," he said. PTI MPB KVK KVK First Published: August 14, 2025, 22:15 IST News agency-feeds India strongly takes up with Ireland cases of violence against Indian nationals 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... Lucknow snacks vendor held for mixing cannabis in aloo tikki Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 01:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Lucknow, Aug 14 (PTI) Lucknow Police has arrested a street food vendor for allegedly mixing cannabis in his snacks like aloo tikki and selling them to customers, officials said Thursday. The accused was held from the suburban Mohanlalganj area of the state capital. Recommended Stories According to a police official, Pramod Sahu, 42, ran a small kiosk serving aloo tikki a fried potato patty and boiled eggs. He secretly laced some portions, including the chutney served alongside, with cannabis for trusted patrons", and also allegedly sold the drug in packets, police said. In a separate case the same day, the Nagram police in Lucknow arrested three men accused of supplying cannabis near railway and bus stations, taxi stands and around schools and colleges. The suspects Manish Yadav, 26, Dev Ravat, 28, and Jagdeep Yadav, 43 allegedly transported the drug in school bags and sold it in small polythene packets priced between 500 and 1,200 rupees, the official said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Police seized 4.7 kilograms of cannabis from the trio after stopping their e-rickshaw near a canal between Samesi and Karora Bazar. Assistant Commissioner of Police (Mohanlalganj) Rajneesh Verma told PTI that all four accused in both the cases have been arrested. PTI KIS MNK MNK First Published: August 15, 2025, 01:15 IST News agency-feeds Lucknow snacks vendor held for mixing cannabis in aloo tikki Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Six Maoists surrender before police in Telangana Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 22:30 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Hyderabad, Aug 14 (PTI) Six members of the outlawed CPI (Maoists) surrendered before police in Bhadradri Kothagudem district of Telangana on Thursday, police said. The Maoists belonging to different cadres, including an Area Committee Member (ACM), voluntarily decided to leave the violent path of Naxalism and lead a peaceful life with their family members, surrendered before district Superintendent of Police B Rohit Raju, an official release said. Recommended Stories After knowing about the welfare measures being taken up for the surrendered Maoists and also development of welfare schemes for tribal (Adivasi) people, provided under Operation Cheyutha" programme conducted by police, the Maoistsincluding three women cadre, surrendered , it said. PTI VVK VVK SA First Published: August 14, 2025, 22:30 IST News agency-feeds Six Maoists surrender before police in Telangana 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... Virgo Horoscope Today, August 14, 2025 Written By : GaneshaGrace Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 06:35 IST Virgo Daily Horoscope, August 14, 2025: Positive outcomes from business travel. Stay grounded, avoid impulsive money decisions, and let your skills speak for you. Virgo Horoscope today: Astrological predictions by Chirag Daruwalla for kanya rashi on August 14 2025. (AI generated image) Virgo Daily Horoscope Today, August 14 2025: Ganesha says a sudden trip for business purposes will yield positive results. Try and keep stress to a minimum. Achieving some professional and financial goals will give you relief from mental stress today. The financial situation will be good. You will work with discretion. New beginnings are possible. You will advance in your career. Your artistry will improve. Your talent will shine. You will make your place with hard work. Professionalism will strengthen. Your reputation will grow. You will make important decisions. Avoid stubbornness. Take care of acquaintances. Your morale and enthusiasm will increase. Work with dignity. Systematic problems will be solved. Health will be good. Recommended Stories Virgo Horoscope Today, August 14, 2025 Positive: Try to solve any property or transaction-related matter with someones mediation, and you will get success. This is a favorable time to complete the work that has been pending for some time. Working with cleverness and discretion will turn the circumstances in your favor. Negative: Do not trust anyone too much in money matters. Decisions taken emotionally and generously can cause losses. Overcome this weakness of yours. It is important to have proper discussions before making any decision. Business: There will be minor problems in business, but their solution will also be found in time. It is very important to maintain transparency in partnership-related matters. Do not get involved in arguments with any officer or employee in government matters. Otherwise, there may be disruptions in work. Finance: Your determination will help you face challenging financial situations easily. Make some decisions regarding money immediately. Channel your energy in a positive direction. Do not waste time on useless activities, as it may worsen your financial condition. Merely setting goals will not be enough. To be successful will require determination and the ability to take quick action. The financial situation will be good. New income sources will be available. Which will increase your income. Love: There will be some bickering between husband and wife regarding the arrangement of the house. Also, keep a distance from extramarital affairs. Health: Problems like physical weakness and body pain will bother you. Keep a systematic routine. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Lucky Colour: White Lucky Number: 6 (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, Num... Read More Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, Tarot, Num... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 06:35 IST News astrology Virgo Horoscope Today, August 14, 2025 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... Bank Holiday Today: Are Banks Open Or Closed on August 13? Check State-Wise List Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 13, 2025, 07:43 IST Banks in Manipur are closed today, August 13, for Patriot's Day, honoring freedom fighters. Digital banking remains available. Banks will also close on August 15 and 16. Bank Holiday In August 2025: Are Banks closed today? Bank Holiday Today: Banks are set to remain close today, August 13, in Manipur due to Patriots Day. According to RBIs instrumental holiday list, the date is earmarked as a public holiday in Manipur state, meaning banks wont be opened there. Recommended Stories During bank holidays, customers can continue to access services through net banking, mobile banking, UPI, and ATMs. While these digital platforms remain operational for transactions, cheque clearing and other physical banking activities governed by the Negotiable Instruments Act will not be processed on these days. What Is Manipurs Patriot Day? Manipur Patriot Day is observed every year on August 13 to honor the courage and sacrifice of Manipuri freedom fighters who resisted British colonial rule. The day particularly commemorates Bir Tikendrajit Singh, the crown prince of Manipur, and General Thangal, who were executed by the British on August 13, 1891, after the Anglo-Manipur War. The conflict arose when the British interfered in the internal affairs of Manipur, leading to armed resistance. On this day, people in Manipur hold memorial events, cultural programs, and public gatherings to pay tribute to these martyrs, celebrating their role in protecting the sovereignty and dignity of the state. Bank Holiday On Independence Day, Janmashtami Banks will be closed for two days this week on Independence Day and Janmashtami. August 15 (Friday) Independence Day / Parsi New Year / Janmashtami Nationwide Holiday All banks across India will remain closed India will celebrate its 78th Independence Day on August 15, 2025, commemorating the countrys independence from British rule in 1947. August 16 (Saturday) Janmashtami (Shravan Vad-8) / Krishna Jayanthi Holiday in Aizawl, Chennai, Hyderabad, Patna, Raipur, Ranchi, Vijayawada, Gangtok, Chandigarh, Jammu, Srinagar Janmashtami, also known as Krishna Janmashtami or Gokulashtami, is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth avatar of Vishnu. It typically falls in August or September, on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) in the month of Bhadrapada, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Stock Market Holiday 2025 The stock market exchanges including BSE and NSE will also remain close on August 15, 2025 on the account of Independence Day. Upcoming Bank Holidays In August 2025 August 19 (Tuesday) Birthday of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur Holiday in Agartala August 25 (Monday) Tirubhav Tithi of Srimanta Sankardeva Holiday in Guwahati August 27 (Wednesday) Ganesh Chaturthi / Samvatsari / Ganesh Puja Holiday in Mumbai, Belapur, Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Panaji August 28 (Thursday) Ganesh Chaturthi (2nd Day) / Nuakhai Holiday in Bhubaneswar, Panaji National Holidays (All Banks Closed Across India) In August August 17 (Sunday) August 24 (Sunday) August 30 (4th Saturday) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all August 31 (Sunday). 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, 07:43 IST News business banking-finance Bank Holiday Today: Are Banks Open Or Closed on August 13? Check State-Wise List 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... Did HDFC Bank Hike Its Minimum Balance Requirement? How It Compares With SBI, Other Banks Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 13:46 IST Check how much you need to maintain in HDFC, SBI, Axis Bank, among other private and public sector banks savings accounts HDFC Bank Ltd: Headquartered in Mumbai, HDFC Bank is India's largest private-sector bank by assets and market capitalisation. It offers a wide range of services, including retail banking, wholesale banking, and treasury operations. (File Photo) HDFC Bank Denies Minimum Balance Hike: HDFC Bank has clarified that it has not increased the minimum balance requirements for its savings accounts, countering earlier reports suggesting that new account holders in metro or urban branches would need to maintain an average monthly balance (AMB) of Rs 25,000more than double the earlier Rs 10,000. The bank stressed that it offers multiple savings account variants tailored to different customer profiles, with each variant having its own AMB requirement based on the value-added services offered. There has been no change in the Average Monthly Balance (AMB) requirement for any account type," the bank stated, reaffirming that the AMB for the Regular Savings Account remains Rs 10,000, while the Savings Max Account continues to require Rs 25,000. Recommended Stories For metro branches, where usage is higher, the bank prioritises offering the Savings Max Account to new customers. Regular Savings Account Rules According to HDFC Banks website, a Regular Savings Account requires a minimum initial deposit of: Rs 10,000 for urban branches Rs 5,000 for semi-urban branches Rs 2,500 for rural branches To maintain the account, customers must either keep the minimum AMB or hold a fixed deposit for at least one year and one day: Urban: Rs 10,000 AMB or Rs 1 lakh FD Semi-urban: Rs 5,000 AMB or Rs 50,000 FD Rural: Rs 2,500 average quarterly balance or Rs 25,000 FD Eligibility for Regular Savings Accounts Eligible applicants include: Resident individuals (single or joint) Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) Foreign nationals residing in India* Minors above 10 years (self-operated accounts allowed, with ATM/debit card option) *Foreign nationals must have resided in India for over 180 days and hold valid documentation, including passport, visa, FRRO certificate, and residential permit. Minimum Balance Rules Across Major Banks State Bank of India (SBI) No minimum balance requirement for Savings Bank or Savings Plus accounts. Kotak Mahindra Bank Minimum balance between Rs 10,000 and Rs 20,000 depending on account type; shortfall attracts a 6% monthly charge. Axis Bank Minimum balance of Rs 10,000 or a Rs 50,000 FD (12+ months). Priority Savings Accounts require Rs 2 lakh. Bank of Baroda Quarterly Average Balance (QAB): Rs 2,000 (metro), Rs 1,000 (semi-urban), Rs 500 (rural). Punjab National Bank (PNB) Monthly balance: Rs 10,000 (metro), Rs 5,000 (urban), Rs 2,000 (semi-urban), Rs 1,000 (rural). Union Bank of India Quarterly balance: Rs 1,000 (metro/urban), Rs 500 (semi-urban), Rs 250 (rural). Canara Bank No minimum balanceAMB requirement waived for all savings accounts from June 1, 2025. IDBI Bank Minimum balance: Rs 10,000 (metro/urban), Rs 5,000 (semi-urban), Rs 2,500 (rural), Rs 1,000 (Rural FI branches). Indian Bank Cheque facility accounts: Rs 2,500 (metro/urban), Rs 1,000 (semi-urban/rural). No-cheque accounts: Rs 1,000 (metro/urban), Rs 500 (semi-urban/rural). Yes Bank top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Basic Savings Deposit Account: No minimum balance. Savings Account PRO: Rs 10,000 per month; PRO Plus: Rs 25,000 per month. About the Author Aparna Deb Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, economy, a... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 07:47 IST News business banking-finance Did HDFC Bank Hike Its Minimum Balance Requirement? How It Compares With SBI, Other Banks 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... India's Exports Rise 7.3% To $37.24 Billion In July; Imports Up by 8.6% YoY Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 17:04 IST India's trade deficit widens to an eight-month high of $27.35 billion during the month. During April-July 2025-26, exports were up 3.07% to $149.2 billion, while imports increased 5.36% to $244.01 billion. Snapping a two-month declining streak, Indias exports rose 7.29% to $37.24 billion in July, even as the trade deficit widened to an eight-month high of $27.35 billion during the month. Official data released on Thursday showed that imports grew 8.6% year-on-year to $64.59 billion in July 2025. The trade gap was the highest since November last year, when it stood at $31.77 billion. During April-July 2025-26, exports were up 3.07% to $149.2 billion, while imports increased 5.36% to $244.01 billion. This resulted in a trade deficit of $94.81 billion for the first four months of the fiscal year. Recommended Stories Briefing the media on the figures, Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal said that despite global economic uncertainties, Indias goods and services exports are doing well." He added, Exports have grown substantially, much higher than the global exports growth." Key sectors driving the export recovery included engineering, electronics, gems and jewellery, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. Meanwhile, ratings agency S&P Global has upgraded Indias sovereign rating to BBB from its earlier BBB- on Thursday, August 14, while maintaining the outlook as stable. The move comes a day ahead of Indias 79th Independence Day. The short-term rating has also been revised to A-2 from A-3, and the transfer and convertibility assessment has been upgraded to A- from BBB+. India is prioritising fiscal consolidation, demonstrating the governments political commitment to deliver sustainable public finances, while maintaining its strong infrastructure drive," S&P said in a statement. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all S&P Global said the stable outlook reflects its view that continued policy stability and high infrastructure investment will support Indias long-term growth prospects. That, along with cautious fiscal and monetary policy that moderates the governments elevated debt and interest burden will underpin the rating over the next 24 months". In May 2024, the agency had shifted its outlook on the Indian economy to positive from stable, noting it could raise the sovereign rating if the fiscal deficit narrowed sufficiently for the net change in general government debt to fall below 7% of GDP on a structural basis. 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 14, 2025, 17:04 IST News business economy India's Exports Rise 7.3% To $37.24 Billion In July; Imports Up by 8.6% YoY 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... Regaal Resources IPO Receives 159.8x Subscription On Final Day Of Bidding; Check Latest GMP Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 17:44 IST Regaal Resources IPO GMP: Its grey market premium rises to 33.33% as compared with nearly 29% in the previous day, indicating a strong market debut. Regaal Resources IPO. Regaal Resources IPO GMP: The initial public offering of Regaal Resources Ltd, which is a maize-based speciality product manufacturer, has been closed today, Thursday, August 14. The price of the Rs 306-crore IPO has been fixed at Rs 102 per share. On the final day of bidding on Thursday, the issue received a 159.87x subscription, garnering bids for 3,35,73,63,312 shares as against the 2,10,00,379 shares on offer. The retail and NII participation stood at 57.75x and 356.72x, respectively. The QIB category received a 190.96x subscription. Recommended Stories The IPOs grey market premium on Thursday rose to 33.33% as compared with nearly 29% in the previous day, indicating a strong market debut. Regaal Resources IPO Price And Lot Size The price band of the IPO has been fixed at 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 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 136 against the upper IPO price of Rs 517. It means a grey market premium or GMP of Rs 34, which is 33.33% 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. 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. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 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 14, 2025, 10:27 IST News business ipo Regaal Resources IPO Receives 159.8x Subscription On Final Day Of Bidding; Check Latest GMP 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... CBSE Warns Students Against Unofficial Websites Issuing Duplicate Marksheets, Certificates Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 20:02 IST CBSE advised all students, and parents to rely exclusively on official notifications issued by the Board through its website, regional offices, or verified communication channels. Accurate and official information related to CBSE can only be found on the official website at cbse.gov.in.(Representative/File) The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Regional Office Delhi (East) has issued a warning regarding the circulation of unauthentic and duplicate mark sheets, certificates, and document corrections. Accurate and official information on these matters can only be found on the official CBSE website cbse.gov.in. Other unofficial platforms are neither affiliated with nor authorised by CBSE in any capacity. Relying on these sources may lead to misinformation, financial loss, or other serious consequences, the board stated in an official notice. Recommended Stories CBSE advises all students, parents, and stakeholders to rely exclusively on official notifications issued by the Board through its website, regional offices, or verified communication channels. It has come to the notice of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Regional Office Delhi (East) that certain unauthorised sources are circulating misleading information claiming to offer quick solutions for the issuance of duplicate mark sheets, certificates, and document corrections," states the official notice. The CBSE strongly condemns the dissemination of such unauthentic and potentially deceptive information. These unofficial platforms are not affiliated with or authorised by CBSE in any capacity. Relying on such sources may lead to misinformation, financial loss, or other serious consequences," the notice added. The board further stated that it will not be held responsible for any issues arising from information circulated through unofficial or third-party sources. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, the CBSE recently conducted surprise inspections in 10 schools spread across six states and Union Territories (UTs) to identify any violations of norms. The inspections took place in Assam, Delhi, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Odisha. However, officials did not disclose the specific period during which these inspections were carried out, reported PTI. The primary objective of the surprise inspections was to probe, scout out and ascertain whether the schools were functioning in compliance with the Boards norms as per the bye-laws of the Board and are not enrolling non-attending students while maintaining the academic and physical infrastructure in the school. Necessary action shall be taken after considering the reports of the Inspection Committee. CBSE is committed to upholding educational standards and will persist in enforcing stringent measures against any violations of its regulations," a senior board official said. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 19:57 IST News education-career CBSE Warns Students Against Unofficial Websites Issuing Duplicate Marksheets, Certificates 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... Lucknow Schools Closed Amid Heavy Rain, IMD Warns Of Intense Weather In Parts Of UP Curated By : Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 07:47 IST All government and private schools in Lucknow from Classes 1 to 12 will remain closed on 14 August due to heavy rain and bad weather, District Magistrate Visakh G Iyer announced. Lucknow schools shut today due to heavy rain and bad weather, IMD forecasts more showers. All government and private schools in Lucknow, from Classes 1 to 12, will remain closed on Thursday, 14 August, following heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions in several parts of Uttar Pradesh, including the state capital. The announcement was made by District Magistrate Visakh G Iyer. The administration said the decision was taken to ensure the safety of students, as persistent downpours have led to severe waterlogging in many areas and disrupted transport services across the city. Recommended Stories In view of bad weather and rain conditions in parts of the state, all government and non-government schools from classes 1 to 12 will remain closed in Lucknow today," said Lucknow DM Visakh G Iyer. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), moderate to intense rainfall is expected early Thursday across Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, north Madhya Pradesh and west Uttar Pradesh. Light to moderate showers are forecast for most areas, with isolated pockets in Delhi and the National Capital Region likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall. A red alert has been issued for parts of Telangana, including Vikarabad and Sangareddy, where extremely heavy rain is anticipated. An orange alert is in place for certain regions of Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In Uttar Pradesh, the IMD said on Wednesday that monsoon activity is expected to intensify over the next 48 hours due to the formation of a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. The system has caused the eastern end of the monsoon trough to shift southwards, likely bringing widespread light to moderate rain, with isolated heavy to very heavy showers, to most parts of the state," the IMD stated. About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 07:47 IST News education-career Lucknow Schools Closed Amid Heavy Rain, IMD Warns Of Intense Weather In Parts Of UP 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... A Cambodian woman holding a kid walks near barbed wire and tyres deployed by Thai armed forces, in Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia, Aug. 14, 2025. A Cambodian defense spokesperson said on Wednesday afternoon that Thai armed forces had deployed barbed wire and tyres in a Cambodian border village, violating a ceasefire and consensus reached by the two countries. (Agence Kampuchea Press/Handout via Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- A Cambodian defense spokesperson said on Wednesday afternoon that Thai armed forces had deployed barbed wire and tyres in a Cambodian border village, violating a ceasefire and consensus reached by the two countries. "On Aug. 12 and 13, 2025, Thai paramilitary forces and border police officers inspected an area in front of the Chouk Chey checkpoint, setting up barbed wire and placing tyres in Chouk Chey village, Ou Beichoan commune, Ou Chrov district of Banteay Meanchey province," Cambodian Defense Ministry's Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said in a press briefing. "Cambodia demands that the Thai side immediately and unconditionally halt all actions that violate the ceasefire and the spirit and consensus reached at the extraordinary meeting of the General Border Committee," she said. "Cambodia once again calls on Thailand to uphold the spirit of the ceasefire in order to achieve a peaceful resolution to the issue in accordance with the principle of international law, ensuring a just, impartial and fair outcome in order to bring peace and prosperity to both nations and peoples," Socheata said. Armed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces erupted on July 24 along their border. The two ASEAN member states agreed to a ceasefire on the afternoon of July 28, which took effect at midnight on the same day. This photo taken on Aug. 14, 2025 shows barbed wire and tyres deployed by Thai armed forces, in Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia. A Cambodian defense spokesperson said on Wednesday afternoon that Thai armed forces had deployed barbed wire and tyres in a Cambodian border village, violating a ceasefire and consensus reached by the two countries. (Agence Kampuchea Press/Handout via Xinhua) Cambodian armed forces stand guard near barbed wire and tyres deployed by Thai armed forces, in Banteay Meanchey province, Cambodia, Aug. 14, 2025. A Cambodian defense spokesperson said on Wednesday afternoon that Thai armed forces had deployed barbed wire and tyres in a Cambodian border village, violating a ceasefire and consensus reached by the two countries. (Agence Kampuchea Press/Handout via Xinhua) Odisha Police Launch Campaign To Address Rise In Suicide Cases Among College Students Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 20:15 IST Through interactive sessions and counselling workshops, police officers are engaging students to address mental health stigma and highlight the importance of seeking help. The campaign will be launched soon to educate students on emotional resilience and seeking support when in stress.(Representative Image) After a series of suicides among college students in Odisha, the police have begun awareness programs in various educational institutions in the northern and western parts of the state, according to PTI. The states Higher Education Department is also planning to launch a campaign in all colleges and universities across the state to tackle the increasing suicide rates among young people. Recommended Stories In the past four weeks, four women, three of whom were college students, allegedly died by suicide in the state. Creating awareness among the students, particularly women, is also our responsibility. We launched awareness campaigns across colleges in Sambalpur, Bargarh, Bolangir, Jharsuguda and Sonepur districts," Northern range IG Himanshu Lal told PTI over the phone. Lal mentioned that the awareness campaign includes real-life stories, expert advice from psychologists, and information on helplines and counselling services available to students. He said they have received tremendous support from students, parents, and local residents. During the campaign on Tuesday and Wednesday, officers from local police stations visited colleges and assured students that the police personnel are always there for them. The students were informed about the existing laws and how to address various issues instead of considering suicide, Lal said. In the process, I observed that the gap between the students and the police is declining. The students are getting familiar with the policemen and women and mustering courage to open up to police. This is a very positive sign that will help in reducing the rate of suicides among students," Lal said. Similarly, under the guidance of DIG Eastern Range, Satyajit Naik, a group of police personnel visited Fakir Mohan (Autonomous) College in Balasore on Tuesday and launched a mental health awareness programme. August 12 was chosen to hold the awareness programme at FM College because exactly one month ago, a second-year female student of the Integrated BEd department resorted to self-immolation and died two days later. This was essential for the police to start mental health awareness campaign from FM College," a DSP rank officer said. Nayak mentioned that the initiative underscores the significance of seeking help and support during challenging times, fostering a community that values mental health and well-being. He stated that the event aimed to cultivate a culture of support and care, encouraging individuals to prioritise their mental health. According to another officer, the campaign, led by committed police officers, seeks to educate female students about the critical issues of suicide and self-immolation, promoting resilience, awareness, and access to support systems. The programmes are being conducted in collaboration with educational institutions. Our aim is to make the female students mentally strong, learn to fight with knowledge in law, coping strategies, and resources to navigate emotional and psychological challenges," said a woman police officer. Through interactive sessions and counselling workshops, police officers are engaging with students to tackle mental health stigma, encourage open conversations, and underline the importance of seeking help during tough times. These efforts also focus on building self-esteem, managing stress, and fostering a sense of community to prevent feelings of isolation, Lal stated. Additionally, Odishas Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj mentioned that the departments initiative under the Shaktishree scheme aims to promote mental well-being among students and prevent them from taking drastic actions during challenging periods. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The campaign, set to launch soon, will educate students on emotional resilience and seeking support when stressed. It will also promote a supportive environment, encouraging peers, teachers, and parents to assist those in distress, he added. DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata) About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 20:10 IST News education-career Odisha Police Launch Campaign To Address Rise In Suicide Cases Among College Students 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... 'Corridor In Vrindavan, Improved Facilities': What Is Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust Bill? Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:19 IST The legislation promises improved facilities, streamlined crowd management, and greater financial transparency, while assuring that centuries-old rituals remain untouched. Shri Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, UP. (Image: PTI) Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust Bill, 2025, was presented and passed in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday the third day of Monsoon Session. The legislation promises improved facilities, streamlined crowd management, and greater financial transparency, while assuring that centuries-old rituals remain untouched. The bill also proposes the creation of a Banke Bihari Corridor to manage the overwhelming crowds at the revered temple. What is Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple Trust Bill, 2025? Recommended Stories The bill seeks to establish a statutory trust with full administrative authority over the temples assets, finances, crowd management, and facilities, while pledging to preserve the shrines centuries-old traditions. Interestingly, the bill was tabled despite the Supreme Court recently staying a similar ordinance issued on May 26 this year, which aimed to bring the temple under a newly created trust. On August 8, the apex court set up an interim 14-member committee, headed by retired Allahabad High Court judge Justice Ashok Kumar, to oversee the temples day-to-day affairs until the Allahabad High Court decides on the ordinances validity. Stampede Tragedy Sparks Legislative Action The government has cited the August 2022 stampede at the temple, in which two devotees died and seven were injured, as a major reason for introducing the bill. The shrine occupies around 870 square metres, with only 365 square metres functioning as the viewing courtyard. Narrow access routes to the temple, combined with lakhs of devotees arriving annually especially during festivals create acute congestion. The 2022 tragedy, the governments statement says, exposed the urgent need for efficient crowd control, safer facilities, and regulated darshan arrangements. The bill also ties into the states vision for a Banke Bihari Corridor, modelled on Varanasis Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, to ease access and improve infrastructure for pilgrims. Corridor Project and Legal Disputes The corridor plan has been embroiled in legal disputes. After the Kashi Vishwanath projects inauguration in February 2022, the Adityanath government shifted its focus to Vrindavans most famous shrine. It proposed using temple funds to acquire five acres of surrounding land for the corridor, prompting opposition from the temples Goswami priest community. The Allahabad High Court barred the use of temple funds for the project. In May this year, the Supreme Court overruled the High Court, allowing the funds to be used, after which the state issued the May 26 ordinance creating the trust. But following a review petition from the Goswamis, the court modified its earlier order, deleting the part that permitted use of temple funds and acknowledging it had erred by not hearing the priest community. This led to the stay on the ordinance earlier this month. Custodianship and Administrative Powers The bill proposes the formation of the Shri Banke Bihari Ji Temple Trust as the custodian of all movable and immovable assets of the shrine, including idols, ornaments, jewellery, cash, cheques, drafts, hundi collections, gifts, grants, contributions, and properties. It grants the trust powers to set darshan timings, appoint priests and staff, determine their salaries, ensure the safety of devotees, and maintain financial transparency through proper record-keeping. The trust would also be empowered to acquire movable or immovable property worth up to Rs20 lakh without state approval, with larger purchases requiring government sanction. It would be authorised to resolve disputes over claims to the deity, temple, or associated lands. Composition of the Proposed Trust According to the bill, the Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust will have 18 members 11 nominated and 7 ex-officio. All nominated members must be Sanatani Hindus, including three eminent representatives from Vaishnav sects, three from other Sanatan Dharma traditions, three distinguished individuals such as scholars or social workers, and two Goswami tradition representatives one each from the Raj-Bhog and Shayan-Bhog Sevayats, descendants of the temples 16th-century founder, Swami Haridas Ji. Ex-officio members will include the District Magistrate, Senior Superintendent of Police, Municipal Commissioner, CEOs of the Braj Teerth Kshetra Vikas Parishad and the Trust, and a state government nominee. If any ex-officio nominee is non-Hindu or not aligned with Sanatan Dharma, a junior officer will replace them. The Trusts CEO will hold ADM rank, and trustees will not be personally liable for decisions made in good faith. Promised Facilities for Devotees The bill also promises provisions for improved facilities for devotees, including prasad distribution centres, dedicated darshan paths for the elderly and persons with disabilities, drinking water stations, resting benches, queue and access management kiosks, cow shelters, an Annakshetra (community kitchen), hotels, inns, exhibition halls, canteens, and waiting rooms. These, the government says, will provide world-class amenities without disrupting religious practices. It has assured that all rituals, festivals, customs, and traditions of the temple will continue without change. Political Debate and Community Concerns top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Politically, the move has sparked debate, as the BJP now championing the bill has historically opposed government interference in temple administration. The Goswami priest community fears the trust could dilute their traditional control over the shrines affairs. The government, however, insists that the trust will be an autonomous body designed to preserve and formalise existing traditions" while ensuring financial transparency" and accountability. The purpose of the trust is not to take over assets or properties of the temple. Instead, it is to merely ensure that financial transparency is maintained," the official statement clarified. Though the Assembly has passed the bill, its implementation remains stalled due to ongoing court proceedings. Until the Supreme Courts stay is lifted and the legal questions resolved, the trust will remain on paper only, with the interim committee continuing to manage the shrines affairs. First Published: August 14, 2025, 16:19 IST News explainers 'Corridor In Vrindavan, Improved Facilities': What Is Shri Banke Bihari Temple Trust Bill? 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... Is It Possible To Create A New Palestine In 2025, Even After Recognition? Hard Realities Explained Curated By : Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 12:33 IST The most important concerns regarding the creation of Palestine state are the geography, fractured leadership, economy and humanitarian crisis, especially in Gaza The humanitarian situation, particularly in Gaza, adds urgency but also complexity to Palestine statehood plan. Widespread displacement, hunger, and destruction of homes have created a crisis that recognition alone cannot solve. (Getty Images) As multiple Western countries, including France, the UK and Canada, move closer to recognising Palestine as a sovereign state, the debate has gained renewed urgency. Can such a state be created in the real world, not just on paper? And if so, how viable would it be? Recommended Stories The discussion has been sharpened by ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank, and a series of provocative comments from US President Donald Trump, whose political resurgence has added a new layer of geopolitical tension. For India, a country that has historically supported Palestinian aspirations while maintaining close ties with Israel, the unfolding scenario carries strategic, diplomatic, and moral implications. The challenges ahead are formidablegeographical fragmentation, political disunity, institutional weakness, and humanitarian collapse. Recognition alone will not bridge these divides. Palestines History Written In Displacement & Conflict The idea of a Palestinian homeland dates back more than a century, shaped by the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I and the British Mandate over Palestine. Competing nationalist movementsZionist and Palestinian Arabcollided during the mandate period, culminating in the 1947 UN Partition Plan, which proposed separate Jewish and Arab states. The Arab leaders rejected the plan, and the first Arab-Israeli war of 1948 led to the creation of the State of Israel and the displacement of over 700,000 Palestiniansa trauma remembered as the Nakba (catastrophe"). Since then, the Palestinian territoriesthe West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gazahave been at the centre of repeated wars, uprisings, and peace talks. The 1993 Oslo Accords raised hopes for a two-state solution, but decades later, the dream remains unfulfilled, overshadowed by Israeli occupation, settlement growth, and internal Palestinian political divisions. Indias Balancing Act On Palestine India recognised the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in 1974 and the State of Palestine in 1988, becoming one of the earliest non-Arab countries to do so. It has consistently backed the two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the Palestinian capital. However, Indias foreign policy has evolved. Since the 1990s, New Delhi has deepened defence, technology, and trade partnerships with Israel, while keeping diplomatic support for Palestine intact. In recent years, high-level visits to both Israel and Palestine have signalled a deliberate balancesupporting Palestinian statehood in principle but avoiding moves that could affect ties with Israel. What Trump Has Said About Palestine Donald Trumps recent remarks have injected controversy into the already volatile debate. In interviews and campaign appearances, he has floated the idea of the US taking over" Gaza and redeveloping it as the Riviera of the Middle East"effectively removing Palestinians from the territory. Reports have also indicated that Trump considered proposals to relocate over a million Gazans to other countries in the region, an idea sharply criticised by Arab states and Palestinian leaders. At the same time, Trump has publicly acknowledged the scale of Gazas humanitarian crisis, speaking of real starvation" and urging Israel to allow more aid in, even while insisting that Hamas cant stay" in Gaza. He has also said the decision to occupy all of Gaza is up to Israel," further fuelling uncertainty about any future US role in Palestinian statehood. What Are The Geographical Complexities? One of the most intractable obstacles to creating a Palestinian state is geography. The West Bankoften envisioned as the heart of a future Palestineis a patchwork of over 160 disconnected Palestinian enclaves, surrounded by Israeli settlements, military zones, and roads under Israeli control. These enclaves, sometimes described as Swiss cheese" or an archipelago," make territorial continuity a logistical nightmare. Roughly 60% of the West Bank (known as Area C) remains under full Israeli control, with extensive settlement infrastructure. East Jerusalem, claimed by Palestinians as their future capital, has been largely annexed by Israel and is surrounded by Israeli neighbourhoods and security barriers. The Gaza Strip, physically separated from the West Bank by Israeli territory, faces its own isolation. Blockaded for years and devastated by recent military operations, it is geographically and politically disconnected from the West Banka major hurdle to forming a unified state. Who Will Be The Future Leader Of Palestine? The Palestinian political landscape is fractured. The Palestinian Authority (PA) governs parts of the West Bank under limited autonomy, while Hamas controls Gaza. Relations between the two have been marked by rivalry, mistrust, and occasional armed clashes. Without political reconciliation, a unified government for a future state remains a distant prospect. This division complicates everything from negotiating peace agreements to delivering basic services. Any plan to create a new Palestine would require not just Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, but also a power-sharing agreement between Palestinian factions. Institutional And Economic Challenges Even with territorial agreements and political unity, building the institutions of a functioning state is a monumental task. The PA faces credibility issues, accusations of corruption, and limited administrative reach. Essential state functionssuch as judiciary independence, security enforcement, and economic managementare underdeveloped or entirely absent in some areas. The economy is heavily aid-dependent, with movement restrictions stifling trade and employment. Gazas infrastructureelectricity, water, hospitalshas been severely degraded, making post-recognition rebuilding a multi-decade project. The Humanitarian Reality The humanitarian situation, particularly in Gaza, adds urgency but also complexity to any statehood plan. Widespread displacement, food shortages, and destruction of homes have created a crisis that recognition alone cannot solve. A new Palestinian state would need immediate large-scale investment in reconstruction, healthcare, and education, alongside political stabilityconditions that are currently absent. Recognition vs. Reality Recognition by Western nations, while symbolically significant, does not change facts on the ground. Israeli settlement expansion continues, and no international mechanism currently exists to enforce the withdrawal from occupied areas. Without territorial sovereignty, free movement, and control over borders, a recognised" state risks being largely ceremonial. For India, this raises a familiar challenge: How to reconcile principled support for self-determination with the practical realities of geopolitics and security concerns. What Are The Alternative Proposals? With the traditional two-state solution facing mounting obstacles, alternative models have emerged: Jordan-Palestine Confederation: A shared administrative arrangement with Jordan offering logistical integration while preserving Palestinian autonomy. City-State Model: Gaza, Ramallah, Hebron, and other cities functioning as autonomous units, loosely connected under a federal or confederal framework. These ideas, while addressing some geographic challenges, risk undermining Palestinian national unity and may fall short of delivering true sovereignty. What Are The Wider Implications? For the Middle East: A viable Palestinian state could reduce tensions, strengthen regional cooperation, and shift alliances. But, if poorly executed, it could spark new rounds of conflict, particularly if border disputes and settlement issues remain unresolved. For Global Diplomacy: Recognition by more states challenges US dominance in the peace process and signals a potential shift towards multipolar mediation. However, without enforceable agreements, this shift could deepen divisions among major powers. For India: India would need to navigate carefullybalancing its historic support for Palestine, its growing partnership with Israel, and its energy and trade ties with Arab countries. The emergence of a functioning Palestinian state could open new avenues for economic cooperation, but instability would bring diplomatic and strategic headaches. In A Nutshell Creating a new Palestine is not just about drawing borders or issuing declarations. It is about overcoming entrenched geographical fragmentation, reconciling bitter political divisions, building credible governance structures, and addressing a humanitarian catastrophe. International recognition can boost the political push for the creation of Palestine, but without a clear, enforceable plan to ensure real sovereignty, build infrastructure, and create a stable economy, the state could end up existing only on paper. For India and the world, the question is no longer just whether Palestine should existit is whether, given the present realities, it can. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all About the Author Shilpy Bisht Shilpy Bisht, Deputy News Editor at News18, writes and edits national, world and business stories. She started off as a print journalist, and then transitioned to online, in her 12 years of experience. Her prev... Read More Shilpy Bisht, Deputy News Editor at News18, writes and edits national, world and business stories. She started off as a print journalist, and then transitioned to online, in her 12 years of experience. Her prev... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 12:33 IST News explainers Is It Possible To Create A New Palestine In 2025, Even After Recognition? Hard Realities Explained 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... Inside East Ukraine Flashpoint: Putins Target, Zelenskyys Defiance, And Land Politics Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 10:11 IST With Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin set to meet in Alaska, talk of a land swap has intensified. But Zelenskyy's red line is clear: no withdrawal from Donbas Zelenskyy's remarks come just days before US President Donald Trump meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.(Reuters Image) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made his position clear: he will not agree to pull Ukrainian forces out of the Donbas, the countrys eastern industrial heartland. His remarks come just days before US President Donald Trump meets Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, their first in-person encounter in more than four years, where the Kremlin is expected to push for Ukrainian land as part of a possible peace arrangement. 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 start a third war," Zelenskyy told journalists. I am not going to surrender my country because I have no right to do so. If we leave Donbas today, our fortifications, our terrain, the heights we control, we will clearly open a bridgehead for the preparation of a Russian offensive." Recommended Stories What And Where Is Donbas The Donbas, short for Donets Basin", is made up of Ukraines Donetsk and Luhansk regions. It is the countrys industrial and mining powerhouse, known for its high-quality coal reserves, steel production and dense urban centres. Before the war, the region accounted for about a third of Ukraines population. The territory stretches from Mariupol in the south to the Russian border in the north. Today, Russia controls all of Luhansk and much of Donetsk, as well as large parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, small pockets in Kharkiv and Sumy, and Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. Ukraine still holds about 30 per cent of Donetsk, including heavily fortified defensive lines and key high ground. More than 200,000 civilians live in this remaining Ukrainian-controlled area. What Putin Wants Russian President Vladimir Putin is demanding that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the 9,000 square kilometres of Donetsk still under Kyivs control. European officials cited by The New York Times say Moscows broader negotiating position is for Ukraine to leave the Donbas entirely, effectively surrendering the remaining part of Donetsk and formalising Russias control over all of Luhansk, which is already fully occupied by Russian forces. For Moscow, such a concession would not only secure the territory but also provide a stronger base for future operations in central Ukraine. Zelenskyys Red Lines: Fears Of A Third War Zelenskyy has insisted that any negotiation over territory must involve Ukraine directly. Any productive talks without [Ukraine] at the table will not work for us. They are possible, but they will not be accepted by us," he said. He has also warned that Russias current troop build-up could be the prelude to a fresh offensive as early as September. I havent heard anything not a single proposal that would guarantee that a new war wont start tomorrow and that Putin wont try to occupy at least Dnipro, Zaporizhzhia and Kharkiv," he said. For the Ukrainian President, without binding, enforceable security guarantees something he says only Europe is offering at present any territorial concession would merely delay, not prevent, the next Russian assault. Trumps Role And The Land Swap Idea Trump has repeatedly suggested that a negotiated territorial exchange between Russia and Ukraine could be the basis for a peace deal. After announcing his meeting with Putin, he said the conflict might conclude with some swapping of territories". It remains unclear what, if anything, Russia would give up in such an arrangement. The White House is reportedly trying to bring European leaders on board with the idea, a move critics say would allow Putin to declare victory while leaving Kyivs gains uncertain. Zelenskyy has not been invited to Fridays talks, but Trump has said he will brief Kyiv and European leaders afterwards: 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. If its a fair deal, I will reveal it to the European Union leaders and the NATO leaders and also to President Zelenskyy. I may say, lots of luck, keep fighting, or I may say we can make a deal." White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the Alaska meeting as a listening exercise" and confirmed that a one-on-one between Trump and Putin is part of the plan." Why Donbas Is Militarily Critical The Donbas has long been central to Ukraines defence. In World War II, the region saw some of the bloodiest battles on the Eastern Front. The modern conflict began in 2014, when Russia illegally annexed Crimea and Moscow-backed separatists seized parts of Donetsk and Luhansk, sparking a low-intensity war that continued for years. This escalated into a full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022. In both phases of the conflict, cities like Bakhmut and Avdiivka became strongholds where Ukrainian forces held the line, inflicting heavy losses on Russia. They remain the only major cities Moscow has captured since the first year of the full-scale invasion in 2022. The Ukrainian-held parts of Donetsk are connected by a single northsouth road, forming a defensive line that blocks Russian forces from sweeping further west. According to Serhii Kuzan, chairman of the Ukrainian Security and Cooperation Center, losing these positions would effectively mean the collapse of this entire defensive line." Ceding Donbas would also give Moscow control over fortifications built at significant cost, vital railway infrastructure, and land rich in minerals and coal. Beyond the industrial belt lies open terrain, a gateway to Ukraines heartland, making it an ideal staging ground for future offensives, according to the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War. The Donbas is also part of Ukraines fortress belt", a chain of fortified towns, including Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, that has repelled Russian advances for over a decade. It links to routes providing Russia with access to the Black Sea, a long-standing strategic priority for Moscow. The Political Reality In Kyiv But beyond the battlefield, the fight over Donbas is shaped by law, public opinion and national identity. Zelenskyys refusal to consider a land-for-peace deal reflects these constraints. Under Ukraines Constitution, the president has no authority to surrender any part of the countrys territory. Public sentiment also backs his stance: more than three-quarters of Ukrainians oppose trading land for peace, with opposition much, much higher" among the military, according to Serhii Kuzan. Historian Yaroslav Hrytsak told NYT that the principle of nothing about us without us", rooted in Cossack-era traditions of self-governance and collective decision-making, is central to Ukrainian identity. Any settlement reached without Kyivs direct participation, he said, would be seen as illegitimate by much of the public. Why Moscow Might Prefer Talks Over Fighting For Russia, talks could achieve in months what might otherwise take years of costly fighting. Matthew Savill, director of military sciences at the Royal United Services Institute, told Sky News that while Russian advances have recently picked up, even though they are making ground, it would still take years (three or more) at current rates to capture all this territory." The prospect of achieving through diplomacy what could take years of fighting, at the cost of heavy casualties and resources, makes a negotiated handover of Donbas an appealing shortcut for the Kremlin. Military analyst Michael Clarke told Sky News the talks certainly wont create peace, but it might create a ceasefire in place if Putin decides to be flexible." However, he warned, So far he hasnt shown any flexibility at all," and suggested Putin could simply use any ceasefire to pause operations, wait out the political clock, and resume the invasion once conditions such as a change in US leadership are more favourable. The Stakes Going Into Alaska For Kyiv, the argument against giving up Donbas is both strategic and moral. Militarily, such a concession would dismantle the defensive lines that have held Russia back, hand Moscow fortified positions and key transport links, and open the way to Ukraines heartland. Politically, it would breach constitutional limits and defy overwhelming public opinion, risking a crisis of legitimacy for any Ukrainian government that agreed to it. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The humanitarian consequences would also be immediate: hundreds of thousands of people in the Ukrainian-held parts of Donbas could be forced to flee. As Trump and Putin prepare to meet in Anchorage, the future of Donbas hangs in the balance, but Zelenskyy insists that no decision about it can be made without Ukraine at the table. 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 14, 2025, 09:45 IST News explainers Inside East Ukraine Flashpoint: Putins Target, Zelenskyys Defiance, And Land 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 Loading comments... Youth Parliament 101: What It Is, Why It Matters And How To Join Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:48 IST The Youth Parliament initiative offers young Indians a platform to simulate real parliamentary proceedings, fostering a deeper understanding of democracy. NYPS Tarun Sabha (Image: nyps.mpa.gov.in) The Monsoon Session of Parliament, which began on July 21, has been making headlines from Opposition protests over SIR to Prime Minister Narendra Modis speech on Operation Sindoor. But in the past two days, its not just MPs grabbing attention. Videos of fiery speeches have gone viral, not from Parliament itself, but from the fourth edition of the Youth Parliament held in the Rajasthan Assembly a student-led simulation of parliamentary proceedings. Recommended Stories One clip shows 17-year-old Sonakshi Bhattacharya, acting as the Home Minister, delivering a powerful speech on cross-border terrorism. Another features Arya Ojha, who called out celebrities for endorsing online gambling apps and harmful tobacco products. Both speeches have struck a chord online, sparking conversations around the Youth Parliament. Since the viral clips have left many asking why students are acting like parliamentarians, lets break down the Youth Parliament initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, offers young Indians a platform to simulate real parliamentary proceedings, fostering a deeper understanding of democracy. What Is Youth Parliament? The Youth Parliament is an educational program designed to replicate the functioning of Indias Parliament, allowing participants to engage in mock debates, discussions, and decision-making. Organised under the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS), it was launched with a dedicated web portal on November 26, 2019, to expand outreach to educational institutions across the country. The program includes sittings (sessions) where students or groups act as members of Parliament, discussing non-controversial topics such as social justice, economic development, education, health, and government welfare schemes. There are different levels and modes: Kishore Sabha: For school students, Classes 9th to 12th, typically involving 50-55 participants per sitting. Yuva Sabha (or Tarun Sabha): For undergraduate and postgraduate students in universities and colleges. Competitions: Annual events like the National Youth Parliament Competition (NYPC) for universities/colleges, Kendriya Vidyalayas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Delhi schools, with regional and national rounds. With NYPS 2.0, introduced to make it inclusive, participation extends beyond institutions to formal/informal groups of citizens and individuals through quizzes on themes like Bharatiya Democracy in Action." Sittings last up to one hour, held in premises convenient to participants, and can include inviting dignitaries like MPs or MLAs as chief guests. Variants like the Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament, aligned with national development goals, encourage discussions on key issues to shape Indias vision for 2047, though specific details on its structure mirror the broader NYPS framework. Why It Matters The Youth Parliament plays a vital role in nurturing democratic values among Indias youth, who form a significant demographic dividend. Its primary objectives include strengthening democracys roots, promoting discipline, tolerance for diverse views, and educating participants about parliamentary procedures and government functioning. Simulating real debates helps youngsters understand public issues, form informed opinions, and develop skills in group discussions and decision-making. Key benefits include: Civic Awareness and Leadership Development: It fosters respect for others views, raises awareness of societal problems, and cultivates leadership qualities, enabling participants to articulate common perspectives on national issues. Skill Building: Enhances public speaking, critical thinking, research, and policy analysis, preparing youth for active citizenship and potential political involvement. Inclusivity and Engagement: Open to all regardless of economic status, gender, caste, or region under NYPS 2.0, it promotes communal harmony and tolerance, aligning with Indias constitutional values. National Impact: Programs like Viksit Bharat Youth Parliament inspire civic participation and policy discussions, contributing to nation-building. In essence, it bridges the gap between youth and governance, empowering them to contribute to a vibrant democracy and address challenges like education, health, and sustainable development. How To Participate In Youth Parliament Joining the Youth Parliament is straightforward and accessible through the official web portal, with options for institutions, groups, and individuals. Eligibility Criteria Institutional Participation: Recognised schools (Classes IX-XII for Kishore Sabha), universities, and colleges (undergraduate/postgraduate for Yuva Sabha). Group Participation: Any group of at least 10 citizens, with a designated leader; open to all ages but focused on youth. Individual Participation: Any citizen can join via online quizzes. For competitions like NYPC: Specific to categories (e.g., Kendriya Vidyalayas, universities), with age-appropriate selections. Viksit Bharat Variant: Ages 18-25 (as of February 24, 2025), with up to 150 participants per district. Registration Process: Institutions/Groups are required to register on https://nyps.mpa.gov.in using the Aadhaar credentials of the principal/head or group leader. Individual candidates can participate in quizzes directly on the portal. For Viksit Bharat: Register on the MY Bharat portal (mybharat.gov.in). Cycles: Two annual cycles for registration and organisation (October-March and April-October). Conduct the Sitting: Select 50-55 participants, choose non-controversial topics, and hold a one-hour session. Use e-training resources on the portal for preparation. Submission and Evaluation: top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Upload reports, photos, and videos on the portal for Ministry verification. Successful participants receive digital certificates of participation/appreciation. For more details, visit the official website of the National Youth Parliament Scheme at nyps.mpa.gov.in. About the Author Surbhi Pathak Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. Surbhi Pathak, subeditor, writes on India, world affairs, science, and education. She is currently dabbling with lifestyle content. Follow her on X: @S_Pathak_11. First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:48 IST News explainers Youth Parliament 101: What It Is, Why It Matters And How To Join 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... 14 August 1947: India On The Brink Of Independence, Who Worked The Most That Day? Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 17:04 IST In Delhi, the Constituent Assembly met in the evening, planning to continue till midnight to witness Indias independence, with final preparations focused on August 14 Large crowds gathered around Parliament as the Constituent Assembly prepared to declare independence at midnight. (AI Generated/News18 Hindi) On August 14, 1947, India was a nation on edge, bustling with activity as the division of armies and allocation of resources took center stage. Government offices and ministries saw officials working tirelessly, their efforts marked by exhaustion and urgency. As midnight approached, the subcontinent stood on the brink of a historic split, giving birth to two nations, India and Pakistan. Amid pockets of violence and uncertainty, the anticipation and excitement of impending independence electrified the air. Chaos and restlessness permeated everywhere, especially among officers and clerks in the Central Secretariat, North Block, South Block, and the Revenue Department. Detailed lists for the division of papers, files, maps, seals, stamps, and even government vehicles were being meticulously prepared. The temporary cabinet of the Government of India convened its final meetings in their respective ministries. Recommended Stories On August 14, 1947, a crucial telegram was dispatched from Delhi military headquarters to every military camp in India and Pakistan. This marked the last order from the British Indian Armys commander. Following this directive, the armies were completely separated. In Karachi, Lord Mountbatten signed the order for the transfer of power, effective from midnight. The British Parliament had already passed the Indian Independence Act on 15th July 1947, which would come into effect in a few hours, marking a historic change. This day was the final chapter of British rule in India and the last day for the British Indian Armys orders. Who Was The Busiest? The busiest individuals were Lord Mountbatten and Jawaharlal Nehru. Mountbatten, tasked with transferring power to Pakistan and India, oversaw every ceremonial and administrative step, monitored Nehrus cabinet meetings, and prepared for the swearing-in ceremony. He met with leaders continuously and finalised his historic speech. Rajpath and Red Fort were adorned for the celebrations, and preparations were underway to record and broadcast Nehrus Tryst with Destiny" speech at midnight on 15th August. Telegram Orders Reached All Army Camps A concise telegram reached top officers across British Indian Army cantonments in India and Pakistan. Field Marshal Claude Auchinleck issued the final order. The one-line order stated, All orders of the Indian Army are cancelled from today. This is the final order of the British Indian Army." Division Of Armies Between India And Pakistan The Indian and Pakistani armies were formally separated. At that time, the British Indian Army comprised 400,000 Indian soldiers, spread across India and Pakistan. The division allocated 260,000 Hindu-Sikh soldiers and officers to the Indian Army and 140,000 Muslims to Pakistan. The Gorkha Brigade was also split, with some battalions joining the British Army and others remaining in India. Pakistan Declares Independence Lord Mountbatten was in Karachi to officiate the transfer of power, signing the documents with Pakistans elected Governor General, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, and addressing the Pakistan Constituent Assembly. Although Pakistans independence was meant to commence from midnight on August 15, Jinnah declared it on the afternoon of August 14, despite the legal inaccuracy. The ceremony proceeded, the Pakistani flag was hoisted, and Mountbatten returned to India for its midnight celebration. Evening Session Of Constituent Assembly Begins In Delhi In Delhi, the Constituent Assembly convened in the evening, intending to continue until midnight to witness Indias transition to independence. Officially, the date was August 15, so preparations, celebrations, and final rituals were concentrated on the 14. Large crowds gathered around Parliament as the Constituent Assembly prepared to declare independence at midnight. Gandhiji Was In Calcutta Gandhiji was in Calcutta, away from Delhi, witnessing Indias independence from a simple house. Days earlier, communal riots had engulfed the city, but his presence gradually helped restore peace amid lingering tension. Hansa Mehta Presented Tricolour To Constituent Assembly Hansa Mehta presented the national flag, the tricolour, to the Constituent Assembly on behalf of Indian women, delivering a speech on the occasion. Although the Union Jack still flew over Parliament and other locations, it would soon be replaced by the tricolour. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tension In Punjab And Bengal Tension was rife in Punjab and Bengal as border uncertainty persisted, with the Radcliffe Line report yet to be released. People anticipated which areas would belong to which country, leading to migrations, riots, and looting. Refugee-laden trains departed from Lahore and Amritsar, while police and army units were deployed to mitigate the violence, though unrest continued. Overall, the situation in riot-affected areas was dire, with residents fleeing their homes in search of safety. First Published: August 14, 2025, 17:04 IST News india 14 August 1947: India On The Brink Of Independence, Who Worked The Most That Day? 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... 21-Year-Old Muslim Man Beaten To Death In Maharashtra For Chatting With Girl, 4 Arrested Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 10:16 IST Suleiman Khan, 20, was beaten to death by ten people in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. Four suspects were arrested; police are looking for the mastermind. Image used for representational purposes. A 20-year-old Muslim man was allegedly beaten to death by ten persons in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra after they spotted him chatting with a girl of other faith. Police have arrested four individuals so far. As per a report by PTI, police suspect an old enmity led to the murder of Suleiman Khan, who was preparing for the police recruitment exam. However, the matter also appears to be of interfaith relationship. Recommended Stories Jalgaon SP Maheshwar Reddy said, Today in Jamner, a boy and a girl were sitting in a cafe, when suddenly some people came there and attacked the boy, in which the boy died, we have registered a case against ten people, two accused have also been arrested, search for the rest is on." Furthermore, two more individuals were arrested later. The arrested individuals were presented before a local court, which remanded them in police custody while the search for the crimes mastermind continues. Khan, from Betawad Khurd village, had gone to Jamner to submit a form for the police recruitment exam on Monday. He was chatting with a girl in a cafe when ten people confronted him and started assaulting him, according to a police official. The attackers forced Khan to return to his village, where they attacked him with sticks and iron rods at the bus stand. When Khans family tried to intervene, they were also beaten. Khan was taken to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead. The incident caused tension in Jamner, prompting the deployment of police personnel in sensitive areas. On Monday night, Khans relatives and locals gathered at the Jamner police station, demanding immediate arrests and strict action against the culprits. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A case was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) for kidnapping, rioting, and murder. Prima facie, an old enmity between two groups is the cause behind the incident. We are investigating the case from various angles," the official said. 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 : Jalgaon, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 09:46 IST News india 21-Year-Old Muslim Man Beaten To Death In Maharashtra For Chatting With Girl, 4 Arrested Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 8-Year-Old Girl Dies After Falling Into Uncovered Drain, Swept For 50 Meters In UPs Gorakhpur Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 19:13 IST An 8-year-old girl, Afreen, fell into a drain in Gorakhpur, UP, amid heavy rains. Locals found her body 50 meters downstream. She was taken to the hospital but declared dead. (Representational image) In a tragic incident, an eight-year-old girl fell into a drain on her way home from school and was swept 50 metres away before her body was retrieved by locals in Uttar Pradeshs Gorakhpur. Amid heavy rains and flooding in Gorakhpur on Monday, Afreen was walking back home. As both the road and the under-construction drain were submerged in water, she walked along the drains slab. Recommended Stories At one place, the drain was uncovered, causing Afreen to fall into it as her younger brother cried for help. Locals rushed to rescue the girl, but her body had been swept 50 metres downstream, NDTV reported. Viral videos showed a man pulling the girl out of the drain by her leg and later performing CPR. When she remained unresponsive, another local picked her up and rushed her to the hospital amid rain, where she was declared dead. Onlookers pull out the body of an 8-year-old girl, who fell into a sewer in an inundated road, while returning home from school in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh. Was rushed to hospital but unfortunately died. pic.twitter.com/PKjZcqZRC6 Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) August 13, 2025 According to Afreens father, Anish Qureshi, a labourer, his daughter had desired to study and was admitted to a madrasa. He said she had dreamed of becoming a doctor. While his wife, Aasman, remained inconsolable, Anish held the contractors negligence responsible for their daughters death. Additional Municipal Commissioner Durgesh Mishra said the drain has been covered. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Location : Gorakhpur, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 19:13 IST News india 8-Year-Old Girl Dies After Falling Into Uncovered Drain, Swept For 50 Meters In UPs Gorakhpur 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... 'All Because Of The Boss: CISF Jawans Forced To Give Guard Of Honour Against Rules Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:49 IST According to News18 Hindi, CISF Headquarters sent the BPR&D manual instructing strict adherence to rules, but Guard of Honour is still given to unauthorised individuals According to CISF officials, giving Guards of Honour to unauthorised persons has become a serious concern. (Representative/PTI) A recent controversy has emerged within the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) regarding the adherence to the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) manual for the provision of a Guard of Honour. According to a News18 Hindi report, earlier in July, the Union Home Secretary attended a CRPF function as the chief guest but was not given a Guard of Honour, in line with BPR&D guidelines, which do not permit such honours for his position. Recommended Stories In contrast, a similar situation unfolded within the CISF when the General Manager (GM) of a plant was scheduled to join. Despite the plant managements request for a Guard of Honour, the unit commander reportedly refused, citing BPR&D rules. According to News18 Hindi, some officers of the plant approached the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) concerned. When the DIG made a recommendation call to the unit commander, he cited the BPR&D rules. The DIG agreed and also expressed his inability to grant a Guard of Honour to the GM. Following this, the plant officers reportedly approached the Inspector General (IG). When the unit commander received a recommendation call from the IG, he again referred to the BPR&D rules. However, unlike the DIG, the IG did not agree. Set Rules Aside The News18 Hindi report mentioned that the IG ordered the unit commander to set aside the BPR&D rules and follow his instructions. As a result, the unit commander was compelled to give a Guard of Honour to the GM. This practice is reported to occur not only on the arrival and departure of the GM but also on Republic Day and other events organised in the plant. The CISF unit commander is reportedly forced to carry out the Guard of Honour unwillingly under the directions of senior officers. Speaking to News18 Hindi on the condition of anonymity, an officer said the Guard of Honour is carried out solely to please the plant management and ensure their minor wishes are fulfilled. He said that if this practice stops, the management may get upset, and their requests could go unheeded. The officer added that the CISF headquarters is aware of this practice and had even issued an order in 2024 to stop it. CISF Orders Strict Adherence To Guard of Honour Rules News18 Hindi reported that an order issued by the CISF Training Branch on May 30, 2024 noted that during a visit to a CISF unit, the Director General found inconsistencies in the way the Guard of Honour was being conducted. While some units followed the BPR&D guidelines, others did not. According to News18 Hindi, the CISF Headquarters had sent the BPR&D manual to all units along with the order, instructing that the Guard of Honour be conducted strictly as per the guidelines. However, reports indicate that this directive has largely been ignored, and Guards of Honour are still being given to unauthorised individuals. The latest instance reportedly occurred in April, when a Guard of Honour was given to a corporation chairman during his assumption of charge. According to CISF officials, giving Guards of Honour to unauthorised persons has become a serious concern, making it difficult for personnel to maintain decorum. Speaking to News18 Hindi, an official said that with Independence Day on August 15, preparations for Guard of Honour are already underway in most units, forcing them once again to honour unauthorised individuals. Who Can Be Given The Guard Of Honour? top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all According to BPR&D rules, the Guard of Honour can be given only to the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Union Minister of State for Home, Governor, Chief Minister, state Home Ministers, Director General of Police, Additional Director General of Police, Inspector General, and Deputy Inspector General. Additionally, the rules allow the Guard of Honour to be presented to the Head of a Foreign State, Vice Head of a Foreign State, Head of a Diplomatic Mission, and Head of a Foreign Police Force. First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:49 IST News india 'All Because Of The Boss: CISF Jawans Forced To Give Guard Of Honour Against Rules 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... 'Defence Important Pillar Of Bilateral Ties': India On Future Of Relationship With US Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:42 IST The ministry of external affairs said the future of a relationship between India and the United States will be based on "mutual respect and shared interests" The Trump administration has imposed 50 percent tariff on India. (Image: AP/File) Amid the Trump administrations imposition of 50 percent tariff on India, the ministry of external affairs on Thursday said the future of a relationship with the United States will be based on mutual respect and shared interests". Highlighting that one of these shared interests was the defence agreements between India and the US, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) said it is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. Recommended Stories The India-US defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements, is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. This robust cooperation has strengthened across all domains," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press conference. #WATCH | Delhi | On India-US Defence ties, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "The India-U.S. defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements, is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. This robust cooperation has strengthened across all domains. pic.twitter.com/6UCfmpQDv0 ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 Jaiswal said India and the US share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties". This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that our two countries have committed to and we hope that the relationship will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests," Jaiswal said. #WATCH | Delhi | On the IndiaU.S. partnership, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, "The United States and India share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered pic.twitter.com/CvB0FPY5YT ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He enumerated the upcoming defence-related collaborations between the two countries, including a visit by a defence policy team from the US mid-August and a joint military exercise in Alaska later this month. We are expecting a US Defence Policy Team to be in Delhi in mid-August. The 21st edition of the joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas is also expected to take place later this month in Alaska. Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 intersessional meeting at the working-level towards the end of the month," he added. 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 14, 2025, 16:33 IST News india 'Defence Important Pillar Of Bilateral Ties': India On Future Of Relationship With US 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... A worker cuts out paper patterns based on design drawing at a toy factory in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Zheng Jiaxiong/Xinhua) Bag charms as part of the merchandise of Chinese animation movie "Nobody" are pictured at a toy factory in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Zheng Jiaxiong/Xinhua) A worker processes bag charms at a toy factory in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Zheng Jiaxiong/Xinhua) A bag charm is pictured on a girl's schoolbag in Luzhou City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Aug. 9, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Liao Shengchun/Xinhua) Panda-shaped bag charms to be exported are pictured at a toy manufacturing factory in Dazhou City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Deng Liangkui/Xinhua) A young girl presents bag charms during an anime and comic exhibition in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Zheng Jiaxiong/Xinhua) Workers process fabrics at a toy factory in Dongguan, south China's Guangdong Province, Aug. 11, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Zheng Jiaxiong/Xinhua) A staff member promotes panda-shaped bag charms via livestreaming at a company in Chengdu City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Aug. 10, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Weng Guangjian/Xinhua) A young man carrying a bag attached with bag charms is pictured in Chengdu City, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Aug. 9, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Photo by Guan Tong/Xinhua) Consumers visit a Pop Mart store in Bangkok, Thailand, May 19, 2025. Bag charms have gained increasingly popularity in China recently, which allow young people to express themselves while fueling an emgering business. E-commerce data from this year's "June 18" shopping spree showed that trendy toys ranked among the most vigorous sectors in "new consumption" in the country. Bag charms, for their part, have evolved into a full-fledged industry chain that ranges from original designs to intellectual property franchising, and from manufacturing to distribution. (Xinhua/Sun Weitong) DRG Jawan Injured After IED Planted By Naxalites Explodes In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:01 IST A DRG jawan was injured by an IED planted by Naxalites in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur during an anti-Naxal operation. The incident occurred in Indravati area. Jawan Injured After IED Planted By Naxalites Explodes (File photo) A jawan of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Naxalites exploded in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Thursday, according to police. The incident occurred in a forest in the Indravati area during a joint anti-Naxal operation involving the DRG and the Special Task Force (STF), both units of the state police, a police official reported. Recommended Stories The injured jawan is being evacuated from the forest after receiving preliminary treatment, he added. Maoists frequently plant IEDs on dirt tracks to target security personnel using these routes during anti-Naxal operations in forests. Civilians have also fallen victim to such traps in the Bastar region, which includes Bijapur district, according to the police. 2 Naxalites Killed In Encounter Two senior Naxalites, each carrying rewards totaling Rs 35 lakh, were killed in an encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarhs Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district on Wednesday, according to police. The encounter occurred late in the afternoon in the Banda Pahad forest area under Madanwada police station jurisdiction, during an anti-Naxal operation by the District Reserve Guard (DRG), stated Superintendent of Police YP Singh. He further told PTI that the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) participated as a support unit in the operation. The operation commenced on Tuesday night following information about the presence of senior cadres in the region. On Wednesday, an exchange of fire began while security personnel were encircling the Banda Pahad area near Retegaon village amidst rainfall. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After the firing ceased, the bodies of two Naxalites were found at the site. The deceased were identified as Vijay Reddy and Lokesh Salame, said Singh. Reddy, a member of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee of Maoists, had a reward of Rs 25 lakh on him, whereas Salame, a divisional committee member, had a Rs 10 lakh bounty on his capture. 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 : Bijapur, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:01 IST News india DRG Jawan Injured After IED Planted By Naxalites Explodes In Chhattisgarh's Bijapur 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... From 17% To 80% Coverage: The Journey Of Jal Jeevan Mission In Rural India Written By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:44 IST For years, successive governments failed to provide the most basic necessities to Indians who needed them the most. That is now fast changing. 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) 77 years is a long time for a nation. It has been especially long for the crores of Indians who were kept deprived of basic necessities without which the sustenance of life can be excruciating, if not impossible. Whether it be the absence of toilets in households, the lack of electricity connections and cooking gas, or the fact that crores of Indians did not have access to safe tap water for decades on end lack of government intervention on all these fronts remained a blot on our nations conscience. For years, successive governments failed to provide the most basic necessities to Indians who needed them the most. That is now fast changing. One of the most remarkable initiatives over the past few years has been the Jal Jeevan Mission, taking clean water to crores of households across the country. Recommended Stories HAR GHAR JAL: CHANGING LIVES IN RURAL INDIA With a budgetary outlay of 3.6 lakh crore rupees, the Har Ghar Jal mission is transformative in its impact and ambitious in its goals. This mission aims to provide tapped water connections to every rural household in India soon. Here are some fascinating numbers relating to Modi governments the Har Ghar Jal mission. Of Indias 19.3 crore rural households, only 3.2 crore had tap water connections in August 2019. This means India had a tap coverage of just about 17% prior to the launch of the Har Ghar Initiative. As of December 2024, over 15.4 crore households, or about 79.5% of the targeted households, have been provided with water connections. News18 had earlier reported how under the Har Ghar Jal initiative, India is installing one new water tap connection for rural households every second! India had surpassed last years record of tap installation within the first eight months of this year alone. A total of 2.16 new tap water connections were installed until August this year, compared to the 2.08 crore installed in the entirety of 2022. Since the launch of the mission in August 2019, around 12.11 to 12.33 crore additional rural households have been provided with tap water connections, bringing the total from 3.23 crore to over 15.4 crore households. As of December 2024, 101 districts, 869 blocks, 78,291 panchayats, and 1,50,190 villages are Har Ghar Jal certified, meaning all households in these administrative units have access to tap water connections. The Har Ghar Jal Initiative is also proving to be a boon for crores of Indians as it is saving them from a host of health risks. According to the government, in 2019, there were 14,020 habitations across 6 states that were affected or contaminated by arsenic. As of July 2023, that number saw a drastic reduction to just about 460 habitations across 3 states. According to a World Health Organisation report, ensuring safe drinking water for all households in the country could avert nearly 400,000 diarrhoeal disease deaths. There is more. With universal coverage of safely managed drinking water in India, almost 14 million Disability Adjusted Life Years from diarrhoeal disease are estimated to be averted, resulting in estimated cost savings of up to $101 billion. An often-overlooked aspect of the Har Ghar Jal initiative is how it is transforming the lives of women in rural India. Traditionally, the responsibility of fetching water in most rural Indian households fell on the shoulders of women who had to often transverse significant distances for nominal volumes of water. This task would occupy a major part of their day. Today, with water tap connections fast spreading across the length and breadth of India, women no longer need to undertake arduous journeys especially in the scorching heat of summer months. Remember, this is happening in a country where successive governments failed to provide something as basic as a water connection to crores of households. Such was the institutional apathy towards Indians most rudimentary requirements, that most people had lost hope and almost normalised living in substandard conditions. No concrete homes, no toilets, no electricity, no cooking gas and no water this is what defined the lives of Indias underprivileged rural class until recently. Ask them how they feel about getting all of this simultaneously in less than a decade since 2014 and you will understand why brand Modi remains unscathed among the most significant voter base of India. TIME FOR GOVERNMENT TO DOUBLE DOWN ON HAR GHAR JAL MISSION The Har Ghar Jal mission is not just about fixing taps and providing piped connections to households. The core of this initiative is, in fact, the determination to provide safe and hygienic water to all Indian households. So, to accomplish that, multi-crore water treatment plants are sprouting in almost all districts. While many believe that the government is simply laying pipes and providing tap connections in rural India, the reality is that the Har Ghar Jal initiative, along with its parent Jal Jeevan Mission is setting up intricate water storage and supply infrastructure in nearly every district of the country. Water quality remains a critical challenge, with Indias Annual Groundwater Quality Report 2024 revealing that almost 20% of groundwater samples exceeded the permissible limit for nitrate, while 9.04% of samples had fluoride levels above safe limits. Arsenic contamination was found in 3.35% of samples across India, particularly affecting states like West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam. To address these quality concerns, the government has established 2,810 water quality testing laboratories across the country, including 2,184 institutional labs and 626 water treatment plant-located labs. Over 24.8 lakh women have been trained across 5.07 lakh villages for testing water samples using Field Testing Kits (FTK). A survey by LocalCircles earlier showed that the number of Indians who believe that the quality of tap water they receive from municipal bodies is improving has gone up in recent years. 44% of the respondents said that their tap water is good or higher, up from 35% last year. But the entire chain of water supply is still in need of significant upgradation. For example, the same survey found that even though the quality of water produced at filtration plants may be top-class, it deteriorates as it travels through the trunk mains to service reservoirs. 14% of respondents still rated piped water supplied to their homes as poor" or very poor." Only 3% of respondents said that they do not need to purify tap water before drinking it. A majority of them nearly 72% purify tapped water with some sort of water purifier. Now while purifying water at a household level is a good practise, there still remains a lot to be desired from the supply end in terms of cleanliness, safety and hygiene. So, one of the biggest challenges for the government is to ensure that the water being supplied is actually safe for drinking. For that, it must ensure the upgradation and constant upkeep of water storage and supply facilities at the district level. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The mission has faced significant implementation challenges, missing its original December 2024 deadline. Four states West Bengal, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Jharkhand are facing substantial delays, with about 46% of households in each of these states yet to receive access to clean drinking water. As a result, the government has extended the Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028 with an enhanced budget allocation of Rs 67,000 crore for 2025-26, representing a 195% increase over the revised estimates of Rs 22,694 crore for 2024-25. Despite these challenges, the lengths to which the Har Ghar Jal initiative has gone in taking piped water connections to households is incredible. Water is a basic necessity required to uplift the most underprivileged and marginalised of communities in rural India. As India gears up to celebrate the 8th edition of the National Water Week in November, it would be a good opportunity to highlight the achievements of the Har Ghar Jal initiative, while also deliberating on the challenges that exist and ways to overcome them. 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 14, 2025, 16:42 IST News india From 17% To 80% Coverage: The Journey Of Jal Jeevan Mission In Rural India Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... SC's Big Remarks On J&K Statehood: 'Can't Ignore Pahalgam, Ground Reality Must Be Considered' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:34 IST The Supreme Court noted that what happened in Pahalgam cannot be ignored. Follow us on: Chairs and tables are scattered at the site of a suspected militant attack on tourists in Baisaran near Pahalgam in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, April 24, 2025 (Credits: Reuters) The Supreme Court on Thursday, while hearing a plea on the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir, said that the ground situation in the union territory needs to be taken into account, and incidents like the Pahalgam attack cannot be ignored. You also have to take into consideration the ground realities; you cannot ignore what has happened in Pahalgam," said the Supreme Court. Recommended Stories The remark by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai came after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central government, said, We assured statehood after elections. There is a peculiar position of this part of our country. I dont know why this issue is this agitated now. This particular State is not the correct State to muddy the water. I will still seek instructions. 8 weeks may be given." A bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran was hearing a plea filed by college teacher Zahoor Ahmed Bhat and activist Khurshid Ahmad Malik, who argued that the ongoing denial of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir was negatively affecting citizens rights. The petitioners argued that conducting Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir before restoring its statehood would violate the principle of federalism, which is a core element of the Constitutions basic structure. The application was submitted during the Assembly elections held in the union territory last year. On August 5, 2019, the Union government split the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) into two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir with a legislative assembly and Ladakh without one. The government and top ministers have said J&K statehood will be restored when the time is right. The Supreme Court, too, had asked the government to restore J&Ks statehood at the earliest. It had earlier upheld the Centres August 5 decision to nullify Article 370, which gave special status to the region. The restoration of statehood and special status is an emotive issue, and several political parties and activists in the Valley have been vocal in their demand to roll back the Centres milestone move that made international headlines and sparked protests. Last year, in an election held after a decade, the National Conference-Congress alliance came to power in J&K. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of the NC has called for the early restoration of statehood. The Court adjourned the matter for eight weeks to allow the Solicitor General time to seek instructions. Pahalgam Attack The courts observation came at a time when India-Pakistan tensions have spiraled over the April 22 attack in Kashmirs Pahalgam, where terrorists killed 25 tourists after ascertaining that they were Hindus. A local pony operator, who tried to stop the terrorists, too, was killed in the attack carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot The Resistance Front, or TRF. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After the attack, Indian air strikes hit terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistans Punjab, repelled Islamabads drones and missiles, and hit back at Pakistani airbases. Indian Forces also tracked down and killed the perpetrators of the Pahalgam attack near Srinagar. view comments First Published: August 14, 2025, 11:29 IST News india SC's Big Remarks On J&K Statehood: 'Can't Ignore Pahalgam, Ground Reality Must Be Considered' 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 High-Profile Sex Racket Busted In Nagpur: How Female Mastermind Trapped Young Women Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 18:51 IST Nagpur's Social Security Department busted a prostitution racket at "Look Book by Inara Unisex Salon", rescuing two women and arresting owner Deepa Godde Police said Rs 40,000 in cash and a mobile phone were seized from the accused. (Representational Image) In a shocking incident, Nagpurs Social Security Department has busted a prostitution racket allegedly operating under the cover of a beauty salon, rescuing two women and arresting the prime accused. The crackdown took place under the ongoing Operation Shakti" drive, aimed at curbing crimes against women. Acting on a tip-off, police raided the Look Book by Inara Unisex Salon" located in Mangalam Apartment, Sitaburdi, on Wednesday evening. Officers said they had received intelligence that the salon was being used to lure women into sex work in exchange for money, with arrangements for clients made within the premises itself. Recommended Stories During the operation, the salons owner, Deepa Godde, was arrested on the spot, while her alleged associate, identified as Pooja Josh, fled before the raid and remains at large. Police said Rs 40,000 in cash and a mobile phone were seized from the accused. Investigators allege Godde and Josh had been actively soliciting women for prostitution and providing space for the activities in the salon. The rescued women have been placed under protective custody. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A case has been registered under the Prevention of Immoral Trafficking Act at Sitaburdi police station. Authorities have handed over Godde to the station for further interrogation, while search operations are underway to trace the absconding co-accused. Police officials said the Operation Shakti" initiative will continue with intensified surveillance to dismantle similar networks in the city. Location : Nagpur, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 18:51 IST News india High-Profile Sex Racket Busted In Nagpur: How Female Mastermind Trapped Young Women 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... 'If 5-Star Treatment Is Given...': SC's Stern Suspension Warning For Jail Super In Darshan Case Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Karishma Jain Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 11:36 IST The observation came as the Supreme Court scrapped actor Darshans bail in the Renukaswamy murder case, flagging serious charges, forensic evidence, & faults in high courts order Kannada actor Darshan was arrested last year in a murder case. (Image: PTI File) The Supreme Court on Thursday warned that a jail superintendent would be the first to face suspension if any accused in custody was found to be receiving VIP or five-star" treatment, while hearing the Renukaswamy murder case involving Kannada actor Darshan. The day we come to know that the accused is provided a five-star treatment, the first step would be to suspend the jail superintendent," the bench headed by Justice JB Pardiwala observed. The remark came as the apex court scrapped the Karnataka High Courts December 13, 2024, order granting bail to Darshan and other accused, calling it a mechanical exercise" that suffered from serious legal infirmities." The bench said the High Court had failed to record special or cogent reasons for granting bail under Sections 302 and 34 of the IPC, omitted legally relevant facts, and conducted an extensive pre-trial examination of witness statements, something that should be left to the trial court during cross-examination. Recommended Stories The court said granting bail in such a serious case without considering the nature and gravity of the offence, the accuseds role, and potential interference with the trial amounted to a perverse and unwarranted exercise of discretion. It pointed to well-founded allegations of witness interference and compelling forensic and circumstantial evidence, including soil samples on the accuseds footwear matching the crime scene and Renukaswamys blood on their clothes, as further grounds for cancellation. The Karnataka government, in its written submission, had also alleged direct involvement of Darshan and co-accused Pavithra Gowda, accused the High Court of wrongly assessing the lethality of the weapons used, and described the bail hearing as an improper mini-trial." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The bench, which had reserved judgment on July 24, had earlier questioned the State about corroborating eyewitness accounts linking Darshan to the crime, and expressed serious concerns over the High Courts exercise of discretion. On July 17, Justice Pardiwala had orally remarked that the High Court had basically handed over a judgment of acquittal" to the accused. According to the police, Darshan allegedly abducted the 33-year-old victim from Chitradurga in June 2024 and had him tortured for three days in a Bengaluru shed. The victim later died from the abuse, and his body was allegedly dumped in a drain. 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 14, 2025, 11:19 IST News india 'If 5-Star Treatment Is Given...': SC's Stern Suspension Warning For Jail Super In Darshan Case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... MEA Hints At Talks On Resuming Border Trade With China, Beijing Says 'Ready To Work With India' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 18:41 IST India said it has "remained engaged" to "facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points" as China said they are "maintaining interactions" PM Narendra Modi is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping during the SCO summit at the end of August. (Image: PTI/File) Ahead of Chinese foreign minister Wang Yis visit to India, there are reports that New Delhi and Beijing are in talks to resume border trade of domestic goods after more than five years. India on Thursday said it has remained engaged" with China to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points". China, meanwhile, said the two neighbours are maintaining interactions at various levels". Recommended Stories The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said India is engaging with the Chinese side to resume border trade through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La in Himachal Pradesh and Nathu La in Sikkim the designated trade points across the border between the two countries. We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points namely Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh, and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. If there are any updates, we will keep you informed," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a press briefing. According to Global Times, in response to media inquiries over reports that Wang is visiting New Delhi on August 18 to meet national security adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval, the Chinese foreign ministry said the two countries are maintaining interactions at various levels. We stand ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between the leaders of our two countries, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, cement political mutual trust, enhance practical cooperation, properly handle differences, and promote the sustained, sound, and steady development of China-India ties," ministry spokesperson Lin Jian was quoted, adding that details regarding the foreign ministers visit will be released in due course. AIR CONNECTIVITY TO RESUME SOON? Airlines in India have reportedly been asked by the central government to prepare flights to China at short notice, with a possible official announcement as soon as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit at the end of August. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the all-important summit, making it his first visit to China since the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. Global Times reported that Lin said China had noted the relevant reports and had been in close communication" with the Indian side to promote the resumption of direct flights between the two countries. The total population of China and India combined is over 2.8 billion. Resuming direct flights between the Chinese mainland and India helps facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation. For some time, the Chinese side has been in close communication with India to promote the early resumption of direct flights between the two countries," Lin was quoted. WHY IS THIS SIGNIFICANT? This comes amid a strain in Indias ties with the Trump administrations imposition of 50 percent tariff over New Delhis procurement of Russian crude oil. President Donald Trump last week issued an executive order slapping an additional 25 percent tariff on Indian goods. Wang is scheduled to visit India on August 18 to hold border talks with Doval, days ahead of Modis planned trip to China for the SCO summit. He may also hold a separate meeting with Jaishankar. According to authoritative sources as quoted by news agency PTI, the Chinese foreign minister is visiting India primarily to hold the next round of Special Representatives (SR) dialogue on the boundary question. Wang and Doval are the designated special representatives for the boundary talks. Doval had travelled to China in December last year 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. WHERE DO INDIA, CHINA STAND NOW? Both India and China have been persistent in repairing bilateral ties, which came under severe strain following the deadly clashes between Indian and Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in June 2020. But they have effectively ended the faceoff by completing the disengagement of military troops from two friction points Demchok and Depsang under an agreement finalised on October 21 last year. Now, the two sides have taken up a number of initiatives to rebuild ties, including resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and New Delhi restarting issuance of tourist visas to Chinese nationals. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all (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 14, 2025, 18:22 IST News india MEA Hints At Talks On Resuming Border Trade With China, Beijing Says 'Ready To Work With India' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 18:54 IST 79th Independence Day Celebrations Highlights: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the 79th Independence Day and laid out a roadmap for the future and a warning to those who challenge Indias sovereignty. He made several announcements while giving his 12th speech from the Red Fort. From tenfold nuclear expansion to a Rs 1 lakh crore youth employment push, PM Modi stressed on making India Aatmanirbhar. PM Modi led the celebrations from the historic Red Fort, where he unfurled the National Flag and addressed the nation. Flying Officer Rashika Sharma assisted in hoisting the Tricolour. This years celebrations at Red Fort were attended by about 5,000 special guests drawn from various walks of life across the country. It included members of the Indian contingent for the Special Olympics 2025, winners of international sporting events, 50 better-performing Swachhta workers of the Swachhta Campaign, tribal children from native communities of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, among others. Follow LIVE Updates 'Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan': Army Ready For All-Arms Brigades, Exclusive Drone Units, Special Ops Battalions Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 08:10 IST This is the first phase of the Indian Army's 'Decade of Transformation' and these reforms were announced during Vijay Diwas on July 26 by the Chief of Army Staff. Army personnel show their skills during Surya Drone Tech Exhibition 2025, organised by the Central Command of the Indian Army and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers. (Image: PTI/File) The Indian Army is at the brink of a massive transformation and it is going to be all about playing to its traditional strengths combined with modern warfare from all-arms brigades to exclusive drone units and brand new special forces-like battalions to lethal guns-and-drones combinations. All of this part of the armys Decade of Transformation (2023 to 2032) was announced during Vijay Diwas on July 26 by the Chief of Army Staff. This is the first phase of this initiative, being implemented on the ground as India marks 79 years of independence. Recommended Stories Key elements include the introduction of concepts such as Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan, and Divyastra along with several other significant changes. BHAIRAV BATTALIONS According to sources, by the end of August, the Indian Army will have five Bhairav Battalions. What is their primary role? Bhairav Battalions are lethal special forces units that will act as a bridge between the armys elite special forces and regular infantry units. What is the difference between the two? Bhairav, which literally means the terrifying one" often used to refer to Hindu deity Shiva, are specialised battalions but with less strategic tasks so as to free up the elite special forces for high-priority missions. They will serve as shock-and-awe troops, delivering rapid surprise strikes, cross-border raids, and tactical disruptions to enemy forces. Similarly, efforts are being made to equip all infantry battalions with drone platoons by the end of August. The Indian Army today is effectively addressing contemporary challenges while rapidly advancing as a transformed, modern, and future-oriented force," Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi said during his Vijay Diwas address. RUDRA BRIGADES General Dwivedi mentioned the introduction of Rudra Brigades and Bhairav Battalions in his speech. Every infantry battalion now includes drone platoons, while the artillerys lethality has been significantly enhanced through Divyastra Batteries and loitering munitions batteries. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems," he said. Rudra are all-arms brigades incorporating soldiers from infantry, artillery and armoured corps. The army, in fact, has already converted two of its brigades into Rudra with each having firepower and manpower. SHAKTIBAAN AND DIVYASTRA The concepts of Shaktibaan (arrow of power") and Divyastra (weapon of the divine") are being incorporated into the artillery on the ground. Sources said in the first phase, at least five regiments of the artillery will have a Divyastra battery each. What are Divyastra batteries? Divyastra batteries represent a shift toward integrating traditional artillery with advanced unmanned and precision-strike technologies to create more versatile, lethal formations suited for modern warfare, particularly along contested borders. These units will use a combination of drones, loitering munitions and guns. The primary goal of Divyastra batteries is to enhance the artillerys firepower and operational effectiveness by enabling deep-strike capabilities, real-time target tracking, and precision engagement of both static and moving threats," an officer said. What are Shaktibaan units? Similarly, Shaktibaan units are specialised artillery regiments that are purely tech-driven, emphasising on drones and loitering munitions for see-and-strike" missions that can hover over targets before attacking. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all They are different from the hybrid Divyastra batteries in that they will not include conventional guns and could be called exclusive drone units. The recent Operation Sindoor, the militarys retaliatory action to the Pahalgam terror attack, has displayed the Indian Armys capabilities to the world. Other than the offensives, the defences too were impressive and experts believe that the armys transformation will further enhance its warfighting capabilities. About the Author Akash Sharma Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin... Read More Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 05:00 IST News india 'Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan': Army Ready For All-Arms Brigades, Exclusive Drone Units, Special Ops Battalions 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... Actor Darshan Arrested After Supreme Court Rejects Bail In Renukaswamy Murder Case Reported By : CNN-News18 Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:12 IST The Supreme Court cancelled actor Darshan's bail in Renukaswamy murder case and cited his influence. SC cancelled actor Darshan's bail on Thursday. (File image) The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of actor Darshan in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case, stating that granting bail in such a serious case" risks influence by the accused. Following the cancellation, the actor was arrested in Bengaluru. The judgment was pronounced by a bench headed by Justice JB Pardiwala, setting aside an earlier Karnataka High Court ruling. The top court has also ordered Darshans immediate arrest. Recommended Stories Delivering its verdict, the apex court noted that the High Court order reflects mechanical exercise. The day we come to know that the accused is provided a five-star treatment, the first step would be to suspend the jail superintendent," the SC bench stated. The top courts decision came after the Karnataka government submitted a written argument to the Supreme Court to cancel the bail of actor Darshan and other accused in the Renukaswamy murder case. The submission of the Karnataka government highlighted several key points to prove Darshans alleged involvement and argues that the High Courts decision to grant bail was flawed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The states case includes forensic evidence, such as soil samples on the accuseds footwear matching the crime scene and Renukaswamys blood on their clothes. Renukaswamy, 33, died of a shock haemorrhage" due to multiple blunt injuries, his autopsy report had said. Darshan was initially arrested in the case, but was granted bail by the Karnataka High Court last December. 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 14, 2025, 10:47 IST News india Actor Darshan Arrested After Supreme Court Rejects Bail In Renukaswamy Murder Case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Inspired To Dream Big': President Praises Shubanshu Shukla In I-Day Eve Address Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 19:47 IST President Droupadi Murmu praised Group Captain Shubanshu Shukla for his historic ISS journey, calling it inspirational. Shukla, part of Axiom-4, conducted crucial ISRO experiments. President Droupadi Murmu addresses the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day. President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday lauded Indian Air Force Group Captain and astronaut Shubanshu Shukla for his historic journey to the International Space Station (ISS), calling his achievement an inspiration for an entire generation. Shubhanshu Shuklas journey to the International Space Station has inspired an entire generation to dream big," said President Murmu during her address to the nation on the eve of Indias 79th Independence Day. This was her fourth address as President. Recommended Stories Shubhanshu Shuklas space journey to the International Space Station has fired a whole generation to dream bigger. pic.twitter.com/70zdsvPDe7 President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 14, 2025 Group Captain Shukla made history on June 26 by becoming the first ISRO astronaut to set foot aboard the ISS. He was part of the four-member Axiom-4 private space mission, which launched aboard SpaceXs Falcon-9 rocket from Florida on June 25. The crew safely returned to Earth with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego, California, on July 15, following a 22.5-hour journey back. During the 18-day stay in orbit, Shukla and his fellow astronauts Peggy Whitson (USA), Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland), and Tibor Kapu (Hungary) conducted over 60 experiments and 20 outreach sessions. Shukla himself completed seven microgravity experiments for ISRO, focusing on muscle regeneration, radiation exposure, algae growth, crop resilience, and human physiology all crucial for Indias upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, targeted for 2027. Shukla, a native of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, has become a symbol of pride across India. His achievement has especially stirred excitement in his hometown, with family, friends, and locals celebrating his role in advancing Indias space ambitions. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all His feat was also praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who said that Shukla has inspired a billion dreams and taken a major step forward for Indias space journey. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 19:46 IST News india 'Inspired To Dream Big': President Praises Shubanshu Shukla In I-Day Eve Address 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... ANKARA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- A total of 411,649 Syrians have returned from Turkiye since December 8 last year, semi-official Anadolu Agency reported Thursday, quoting data from the Turkish Presidency of Migration Management. The number of Syrians who have returned since 2016 has now reached 1,151,652, according to Anadolu. Meanwhile, the number of Syrians under temporary protection in Turkiye currently stands at 2,543,711. Millions of Syrians fled their country following the outbreak of a civil war in 2011. Turkiye, sharing a long border with Syria, became a major refuge, hosting more than 3.6 million Syrians at the peak of the crisis, according to UN figures. Following former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's ouster on Dec. 8, 2024, a large number of Syrian refugees abroad began their journey back to their homeland. 46 Dead After Cloudburst In J&K's Kishtwar, Rescue Ops On As Many Feared Trapped Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 23:44 IST The cloudburst triggered flash floods, washing away several structures and leaving many more trapped under debris Rescue work underway after a cloudburst in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. (PTI photo) A massive cloudburst struck Chositi village in the remote Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday afternoon, killing at least 46 people, including two CISF personnel, officials confirmed. The cloudburst triggered flash floods, washing away several structures and leaving many more trapped under debris. Officials fear the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue. Recommended Stories So far, 167 people have been rescued, of whom 38 are reported to be in serious condition. Disaster During Machail Mata Yatra The tragedy took place between 12 noon and 1 pm in Chositi the last motorable village on the route to the sacred Machail Mata temple, located at 9,500 feet. The temple yatra began on July 25 and was scheduled to continue till September 5. A large number of devotees had gathered in Chositi, around 90 km from Kishtwar town, when the cloudburst struck. A langar (community kitchen) set up for pilgrims was among the worst-hit structures. Shops and a security post were also swept away by the flash floods. Army Joins Relief & Rescue Operation Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma, along with the senior superintendent of police, immediately rushed to the site to supervise rescue efforts. Multiple agencies, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, Army, and local volunteers, launched a large-scale rescue operation. Two additional NDRF teams from Jammu and Udhampur were deployed to intensify the search and rescue efforts. Massive rescue operations have been started in the area," said the deputy commissioner, speaking en route to Chositi. J&K CM Cancels Tea Party, Cultural Events In view of the tragedy, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced the cancellation of the Independence Day tea party and cultural events scheduled for Friday. In light of the tragedy caused by the cloudburst in Kishtwar, I have taken the decision to cancel the At Home tea party tomorrow (Friday) evening," Abdullah said in a post on X. He added that the formal proceedings, including the flag-hoisting and march past at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, will go ahead as planned. PM Modi Assures Assistance Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and assured full central assistance to those affected. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," the Prime Minister posted on X. (With inputs from PTI) 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 : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 19:25 IST News india 46 Dead After Cloudburst In J&K's Kishtwar, Rescue Ops On As Many Feared Trapped Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 23:28 IST Damaged structures and uprooted trees at an area after a massive cloudburst at Chasoti village, in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. (PTI) Kishtwar Cloudburst Updates: At least 46 people are feared dead after a cloudburst struck the Paddar Tashoti area of Kishtwar district, triggering flash floods that swept away a langar (community kitchen) shed. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and extended his condolences to the affected families. Rescue operations are currently underway, and officials fear the death toll may rise as efforts continue. The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a Nowcast alert indicating moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by brief intense showers, thunder, lightning, and gusty winds across many parts of Jammu & Kashmir over the next 46 hours. Meanwhile, JK LG Manoj Sinha directed Army and NDRF officials to strengthen rescue efforts, Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for the quick recovery of the injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF and SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected. Kishtwar Cloudburst: Pilgrims Were Eating Langar, Resting Next To Nullah When Flash Floods Hit Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 21:36 IST Pilgrims were standing in and around the nullah and waiting for langar were swept away when the cloud burst and the nullah swelled. Police personnel and others stand near a stream amid rise in water level due to Kishtwar's cloudburst, during rain, in Pahalgam, Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir. (IMAGE: PTI) Groups of pilgrims were scattered in and around the Jasnai nullah and were sitting in setups, collecting food from a community kitchen, popularly known as langar, when flash floods washed them away following a cloudburst in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar on Thursday. The flash floods have claimed over 46 lives and injured over a hundred people. Over several dozens are being rescued. Officials said that rescue efforts are being hindered due to incessant rain in the region. Recommended Stories According to reports by the Indian Express and the Hindustan Times, the pilgrims were gathered at Chasoti village. The village is a key stop on the pilgrimage to the Hindu shrine Machail Mata Mandir. The deluge hit a community kitchen set up for the pilgrims where 100 to 150 pilgrims were having food," an officer speaking to the Hindustan Times said. The Jasnai nullah is a regular stop along the pilgrimage route to the Chandi Mata temple in Paddar. The pilgrimage began on July 25, and so far more than 1.3 lakh devotees have visited the shrine. This weekend is especially significant, as the number of pilgrims rises sharply. Each year, on the first Bhadon or Bhadoon Sankranti (August 15 or 16), devotees from across Paddar gather outside the temple in Machail to offer prayers and seek blessings, according to the shrines website. Local residents said the cloudburst struck between noon and 1 pm, with the bulk of pilgrims gathered at Chasoti, which is also the last motorable point before the Kali Mata temple, located at 2,880 metres. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all They parked their vehicles, where makeshift shops and a langar were set up and continued to the temple on foot along the Jasnai nullah. When the cloudburst hit, many were either standing in the nullah or resting at the langar. Within seconds, the water level surged, sweeping away numerous devotees, locals said, leaving little time for anyone to react. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Kishtwar, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 21:32 IST News india Kishtwar Cloudburst: Pilgrims Were Eating Langar, Resting Next To Nullah When Flash Floods Hit 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... Mother Gets 10-Year-Old Son Killed By Lover After He Finds Out About Her Affair Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:53 IST A woman conspired with her lover to kill her 10-year-old son in Varanasi after he saw them in a compromising position. On Monday evening, Faizan strangled Suraj to death with the help of his friend. (Representative image) A woman allegedly conspired to get her 10-year-old son killed after he saw her in a compromising position with a man in their house in Varanasi. According to news agency PTI, the woman got the boy killed with the help of her lover and his aide. Subsequently, the trio was arrested. The accused mother has been identified as Sona Sharma, a resident of the Ramnagar police station area. Sharma lost lost her husband in an accident two years ago and had been living with her son Suraj and five-year-old daughter. Recommended Stories In the meantime, Sharma came close to Faizan and entered into a romantic relationship with him. Faizan would frequently visit her home. PTI report suggests that on Sunday, Suraj saw his mother and Faizan in a compromising position in their bedroom. Fearing that the minor would disclose their relationship, the accused decided to kill him, PTI reported, citing Additional DCP T Sarvanan. In order to trap Suraj, Faizan on Monday evening lured him into the bushes in the Bawan Bigha grounds and strangled him to death with the help of his friend, Rashid. Thereafter, they hid the body. In an attempt to pass of the crime as abduction, the accused mother filed a missing report at Ramnagar police station late on Monday night, claiming that her child was abducted, police said. After police launched an investigation and recovered Surajs body from the bushes in Bawan Bigha on Tuesday night. As police started questioning people related to Suraj, Sharmas behaviour raised suspicion. During subsequent probe, Sharma repeatedly named Faizan, who was immediately taken into custody, the officer said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier on Tuesday night, police took Faizan to the crime scene, where he tried to snatch a police officers gun to fire at the team and escape. In retaliation police shot him in the right leg. Further investigation into the case was underway. 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 : Varanasi, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:53 IST News india Mother Gets 10-Year-Old Son Killed By Lover After He Finds Out About Her Affair 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... 'Naya Bharat, Operation Sindoor': PM Modi's Red Fort Address To Echo Theme For 79th Independence Day Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 00:11 IST PM Narendra Modi is expected to underline India's uncompromising stand on national security, economic growth and expanding welfare model on his watch A girl gets her face painted with tricolour on the eve of Independence Day, in Nadia on August 14. (Image: PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modis Independence Day speech, his 12th consecutive address from New Delhis iconic Red Fort, will echo the theme of this years celebrations as revealed by the Centre Naya Bharat and Operation Sindoor. Taking off from President Droupadi Murmus Independence Day message to the nation, which was broadcast on Thursday, Modis speech will likely touch upon Indias collective progress and the opportunities that lie ahead. Recommended Stories He praised Murmus thoughtful address on the eve of Independence Day and said she has reminded citizens of the sacrifices that made the countrys freedom a reality. He, however, is expected to underline the nations uncompromising stand on national security, economic growth and expanding welfare model on his watch. Political experts will look out for any signalling from him on the foreign policy front at a time when Indias generally solid ties with the US are under strain amid Trumps repeated claims of mediating ceasefire between India and Pakistan and use of tariff to pressure India on trade. Modi may also reflect upon self-reliance, boosting indigenous knowhow and local manufacturing as helping the country achieve its goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. With this speech, he will edge ahead of late prime minister Indira Gandhis 11 consecutive speeches from the ramparts of Red Fort to stand only next to Jawaharlal Nehru. WHAT DOES THE SCHEDULE LOOK LIKE? Modi will lead the celebrations from Red Fort, where he will unfurl the Tricolour and address the nation. Coordinated by the Indian Air Force, this years event will feature a ceremonial Guard of Honour, a 21-gun salute, and a special fly past carrying both the National Flag and the Operation Sindoor flag. The Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, and defence secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at the Red Fort. 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 personnel one officer and 24 members each from the army, navy, air force, and Delhi police commanded by Wing Commander AS Sekhon. Following the inspection, he will proceed to the ramparts to greet the three service chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Flying Officer Rashika Sharma will assist in hoisting the Tricolour, synchronised with a 21-gun salute from the 1721 Field Battery (Ceremonial) using indigenous 105 mm Light Field Guns. The National Flag Guard 128 personnel drawn equally from the three armed services and the Delhi police will present the Rashtriya Salute. The Air Force band, led by Junior Warrant Officer M Deka, will play the National Anthem with 11 Agniveer Vayu musicians taking part 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 venue one flying the National Flag and the other bearing the Operation Sindoor flag. 11,000-STRONG SECURITY COVER NEAR RED FORT New Delhi, meanwhile, will be fortified for Independence Day with snipers at high-rise buildings, heightened camera surveillance across the city and more than 11,000 security personnel and 3,000 traffic police for security in and around the Red Fort. For Prime Minister Narendra Modis address from the Red Fort, personnel from the Delhi police, army and paramilitary forces have been deployed with multiple layers of security in place. Here is a look at the security arrangements around the Red Fort: A key directive is to ensure that there are no bird feeding points in the areas surrounding the Red Fort. The Delhi Police, in coordination with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), has asked non-vegetarian eateries to dispose of food waste properly so flocks of birds are not attracted," a senior police officer said. This measure aims to prevent any disturbance to helicopter movement on August 15. There is heavy surveillance through CCTV cameras, drone detection systems, and facial recognition cameras and ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) cameras. These will be used to monitor the venue and its surrounding areas. For the first time, under-vehicle surveillance systems (UVSS) will be deployed at five parking areas of the Red Fort to scan the underside of vehicles for explosives, weapons or contraband. Admission to Red Fort on August 15 is strictly through invitation cards and only labelled vehicles will be allowed in its vicinity. Headcount cameras to track crowd numbers and devices to flag unattended or suspicious objects will also be deployed, while intrusion-detection cameras will monitor the restricted zones. Snipers and rooftop surveillance teams will be deployed to secure the high-rises near the Red Fort, while movement in the designated restricted zones will be strictly regulated through access control mechanisms. Here is a look at security measures around New Delhi: Delhi traffic police has restricted the entry of commercial vehicles to the national capital after 10 pm on Thursday (August 14). Special teams are deployed at all major railway stations, interstate bus terminals, airports, and metro stations. Passenger screenings, baggage checks, and random identity verifications have been intensified. Security has been stepped up at water treatment plants to protect vital installations, with a special focus on north and central districts in Delhi. DCP-rank officers will be overseeing the anti-drone mechanism, with surveillance intensified along the Yamuna as speed boats have been deployed in the river. Apart from multiple security drills, night patrolling and enhanced foot patrolling, plain-clothed surveillance teams are being mobilised to strengthen ground presence, especially in the sensitive zones. Social media platforms are being closely monitored by the cyber units to detect and neutralise any possible online threats or misinformation campaigns that may disrupt peace. Anti-sabotage checks, vehicle barricading, and verification drives are being intensified in coordination with the intelligence agencies. There is a ban on sub-conventional aerial platforms such as paragliders, hang-gliders, UAVs, drones, hot air balloons and other remotely piloted aircraft over Delhi skies between August 2 and August 16. All district police units have been directed to conduct foot patrolling in the markets, Metro stations, bus terminals, and other public gathering points. Senior officers have been told to remain on the ground and review the security arrangements personally. Surprise inspections and flag marches have also been planned across various districts to instil confidence among the citizens and deter the miscreants, officials said. (With agency inputs) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 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 14, 2025, 23:50 IST News india 'Naya Bharat, Operation Sindoor': PM Modi's Red Fort Address To Echo Theme For 79th Independence Day Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... New 1.55 Lakh Sq M Museum At Raisina Hill To Showcase Bharat's Civilisational Journey | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 08:54 IST The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will be a cultural landmark that could come up in the next three years, as per the said document A document reviewed by CNN-News18 reveals new details about this mega project to come up in North and South Block, which have housed the PMO and ministries of Home, Defence and Finance for decades. (PTI) The Narendra Modi government has begun work on the Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum that will come up in the North and South Block on Raisina Hill and is seeking a specialist consultant for the content to be showcased in the museum. A document reviewed by CNN-News18 reveals new details about this mega project to come up in North and South Block, which have housed the PMO and ministries of Home, Defence and Finance for decades. Recommended Stories The Yuge Yugeen Bharat Museum will be spread over 1.55 lakh square meters and will be a cultural landmark" that could come up in the next three years, as per the said document. It will be a national institution that will narrate the civilisational journey of Bharat and its diverse histories, philosophies, material cultures, and intellectual traditions," the document says. The project includes 30 galleries that will come up indoors, outdoors and in the courtyards. The galleries will be designed to present interconnected themes that span across time periods and regions, highlighting Indias plurality and continuity through carefully curated collections, narratives, and immersive experiences," it says. The museum will highlight Indias pivotal position in global networks such as the Silk Road, Spice Route, and Indian Ocean circuits and will emerge as a space of public engagement, cultural interpretation, and knowledge dissemination". The museum will emerge through the adaptive reuse of these historic buildings, the North and South blocks, as per the document with CNN-News18. The consultant to be brought on board by the government must have demonstrated expertise in large-scale museum content development and collection analysis as he or she will be responsible for conceptualising, researching, and preparing interpretive content and narratives for the galleries, in alignment with the overarching vision of the museum, the document says. Each of the 30 galleries will be conceptually distinct, yet seamlessly integrated into a unified, thematically coherent visitor experience. This narrative approach must be grounded in scholarly research, object-based analysis, and audience-focused storytelling," the document says. Collections for the museum will be drawn from across the country, along with artefacts to ensure that the content contributes meaningfully to the museums purpose as a space of public education, cultural representation, and human reflection, the document adds. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The museum will celebrate Indias historical role as a global entrepot, fostering trade, cultural exchange, and intellectual dialogue. The content should be appealing to school groups, families, scholars, tourists, and international visitors, the document says. The narrative must reflect the richness and diversity of Indian cultural expressions across geographies, periods, languages, communities, and knowledge systems, creating a coherent and inclusive museological experience," the document says. 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 14, 2025, 08:54 IST News india New 1.55 Lakh Sq M Museum At Raisina Hill To Showcase Bharat's Civilisational Journey | Exclusive 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... News18 Afternoon Digest: SC's Remarks On J&K Statehood, Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts & More Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 13:42 IST We are also covering: Cloudbursts Trigger Flash Floods In Himachal, Over 300 Roads Blocked and PM Modi Pays Tribute To Partition Survivors. Cloudbursts Trigger Flash Floods In Himachal, Over 300 Roads Blocked In todays evening digest, News18 brings you the latest update on Supreme Courts remarks while hearing a plea on the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh witnesses heavy rains with several roads closed and bridges destroyed in the Shimla and Lahaul and Spiti districts, and PM Modi paid tribute to millions of citizens who were affected by the tragic incidents unfolded during the partition of India in 1947. Cloudbursts Trigger Flash Floods In Himachal, Over 300 Roads Blocked; Orange Alert Issued | Videp Recommended Stories Himachal Pradesh Weather Update: Heavy rain has battered Himachal Pradesh, with several roads closed and bridges destroyed in the Shimla and Lahaul and Spiti districts, following fresh incidents of cloudburst flash floods in the state since Wednesday. Read more Tragic Chapter Of History: PM Modi Pays Tribute To Partition Survivors, Praises Their Grit As the country observes the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to millions of citizens who were affected by the tragic incidents unfolded during the partition of India in 1947. Calling it a tragic chapter of our history", Prime Minister Modi also praised the resilience of the bravehearts who faced unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh." Read more 21-Year-Old Muslim Man Beaten To Death In Maharashtra For Chatting With Girl, 4 Arrested A 20-year-old Muslim man was allegedly beaten to death by ten persons in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra after they spotted him chatting with a girl of other faith. Police have arrested four individuals so far. As per a report by PTI, police suspect an old enmity led to the murder of Suleiman Khan, who was preparing for the police recruitment exam. However, the matter also appears to be of interfaith relationship. Read more Three Terror Associates Linked To Pakistan Arrested In J&Ks Handwara The Jammu and Kashmir police, the Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) carried out a joint cordon-and-search operation in Handwara, Kupwara district, and apprehended three terror associates. Read more Reflects Political Deadlock: Mehbooba Mufti, Others React To SCs Stance On J&Ks Statehood Row Leaders are reacting sharply after Supreme Court sought the central governments response Jammu and Kashmirs statehood petition. A Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran heard the plea and remarked that the situation in J&K cannot be overlooked and cited the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Sachin Tendulkars Son Arjun Gets Engaged To Saaniya Chandhok: Report Arjun Tendulkar, son of legendary India captain Sachin Tendulkar, has reportedly got engaged to Saaniya Chandhok, granddaughter of noted Mumbai businessman Ravi Ghai. However, neither the Tendulkars nor the Ghai family has confirmed the engagement, the report further stated. Read more top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all War 2 Post Credit Scene Leak: Bobby Deol Looks Menacing In First Look As Alpha Villain | See Here War 2 Post Credit Scene: Hrithik Roshan, Jr NTR and Kiara Advanis War 2 is finally out in theatres. Although the actors had urged that fans not leak spoilers from the film, the post-credit scene featuring Bobby Deol is all over social media! The post-credit scene of the film offers the first glimpse of Bobby Deols character from Alpha, which stars Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh. 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 14, 2025, 13:42 IST News india News18 Afternoon Digest: SC's Remarks On J&K Statehood, Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts & More 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... No Cruelty, Mistreatment Or Starvation: SC Lists Strict Guidelines For Delhi Dogs Order Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 09:44 IST The Supreme Court order mandated that dogs should not face mistreatment, cruelty, or substandard care. SC reiterated that all stray dogs in Delhi and the NCR must be promptly rounded up and housed in shelters. (AI-generated image) The Supreme Court on Wednesday released a comprehensive written order elaborating on its August 11 verdict. This order provided detailed guidelines to ensure the welfare of captured stray dogs, highlighting that these animals should never face mistreatment, cruelty, overcrowding, starvation, or neglect. The detailed order was issued as the suo motu case concerning the stray dog menace was transferred from the bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan to a new three-judge bench led by Justice Vikram Nath. Recommended Stories The court reiterated that all stray dogs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) must be promptly rounded up and housed in shelters, prohibiting their release back onto the streets. Authorities were instructed to prevent overcrowding and ensure continuous care for the animals. The order mandated that dogs should not face mistreatment, cruelty, or substandard care. Civic agencies and personnel at dog shelters were directed to avoid overcrowding, maintain constant monitoring, and provide adequate, regular feeding. Trained veterinarians are required to give timely medical care, and vulnerable or weak animals should be housed separately whenever possible. The written order also detailed minimum staffing standards, record-keeping, and identification procedures. Authorities must ensure that at least two responsible personnel are present at shelters at all times, with a duty roster in place for round-the-clock supervision. All captured animals must be earmarked and logged for identification, with strict actions warned against any failure leading to a strays re-release. The court acknowledged public concerns prompting its intervention and emphasised that the round-up exercise followed prolonged deliberation, not impulsive action. The court acted after concluding that there had been a systematic failure by authorities over the past two decades to address a public safety issue. Balancing human safety with animal welfare, the court dismissed what it termed virtue signalling" by some stakeholders, urging genuine supporters to volunteer in shelters. The directions were for the welfare of both humans and dogs, the court noted, calling upon the public and animal-welfare organisations to responsibly assist in running the shelters. Regarding adoptions raised during the August 11 hearing, the written order authorised adoption schemes but only after rigorous vetting according to the Standard Protocol for Adoption of Community Animals dated May 17, 2022, from the Animal Welfare Board of India. Adoptions must ensure permanent rehoming without releasing animals back into public spaces. The original oral order, now fully incorporated, had instructed authorities in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram to establish shelters for at least 5,000 dogs within six to eight weeks and begin immediate capture operations. The written version added Faridabad to the list and mandated a helpline for dog-bite complaints, ensuring offending animals are picked up within four hours. The bench warned that obstructing the capture programme would be treated as contempt of court. The court criticised the Animal Birth Control rules that require sterilised animals to be released back into the same locality, questioning why sterilised animals should return to places where they continue to menace residents. The detailed written order highlighted the courts concern for vulnerable human groups like visually impaired persons, children, the elderly, and the homeless, who are especially at risk from dog attacks and have limited access to post-exposure treatment. The court emphasised that the law must safeguard the rights and security of every individual, particularly those at the margins. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The litigation began suo motu following media reports of a childs death from rabies after a dog bite. The bench frequently cited alarming statistics on dog-bite incidents, especially involving infants and the elderly. The issue has sparked intense public debate, with divisions between animal-welfare advocates and residents associations, as well as among municipal officials tasked with implementation. By explicitly codifying welfare standards and operational protocols, the court aims to ensure the stray dog round-up does not lead to abuse or neglect, while also addressing long-standing public safety concerns. 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 14, 2025, 09:44 IST News india No Cruelty, Mistreatment Or Starvation: SC Lists Strict Guidelines For Delhi Dogs Order Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Pre-Independence Documents Have More Value Than 'Affinity Test' In Deciding Scheduled Tribe Status: SC Reported By : LawBeat Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 22:50 IST The court declared the appellant belonged to the Koli Mahadev Tribe and directed the scrutiny committee to issue caste validity certificate to him within six weeks The top court observed that with the passage of time, migration and modernisation have integrated many tribal populations into the mainstream, and the inability to recall anthropological and ethnological traits, deity, rituals, customs, marriage or funeral practices should not automatically result in rejection of a claim. (File image/AFP) The Supreme Court, on August 12, allowed an appeal seeking recognition of Scheduled Tribe status, holding that the affinity test is not a litmus test to determine caste or tribe claims and should not be treated as an essential step in every case. The court stressed that when available, credible pre-Independence documents must be given greater probative value. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justices Satish Chandra Sharma and K Vinod Chandran delivered the ruling while setting aside a Bombay High Court judgment that had upheld an order of the Caste Scrutiny Committee invalidating the caste claim of appellant Yogesh Madhav Makalwad. The court directed the committee to issue a Caste Validity Certificate within six weeks, holding that the appellant belonged to the Koli Mahadev Tribe. Recommended Stories The top court observed that with the passage of time, migration and modernisation have integrated many tribal populations into the mainstream, and the inability to recall anthropological and ethnological traits, deity, rituals, customs, marriage or funeral practices should not automatically result in rejection of a claim. Referring to the record, the bench noted a pre-Independence document from 1943 that recorded the caste of the appellants grandfather, Jalba Malba Makalwad, as Koli Mahadev. It held that this entry carried greater evidentiary value and had been wrongly disbelieved on the basis of assumptions. The judgment cited Anand v Committee for Scrutiny & Verification of Tribe Claims (2012), which established that pre-Independence records carry a higher degree of probative value when declaring caste status than post-Independence documents. In Anand, it was also held that the affinity test is not conclusive for establishing a link with a Scheduled Tribe, and failure to match specific anthropological features should not be the sole ground to reject a claim. In the present matter, the State had alleged interpolation in the 1943 school record of the appellants grandfather. The bench considered the handwriting experts report inconclusive and, after examining the document with a magnifying glass, found the words Koli Mahadev" written in the same ink and handwriting as the rest of the entry, ruling out tampering. The court also relied on Maharashtra Adiwasi Thakur Jamat Swarakshan Samiti v State of Maharashtra (2023), where a three-judge bench reiterated that the affinity test cannot be determinative either way. That judgment clarified that when conducted by a vigilance cell, the tests results must be weighed along with other material of probative value in deciding caste validity claims. Applying these principles, the court held that the Scrutiny Committees invalidation of the appellants caste claim, and the Bombay High Courts July 23, 2024, order upholding it, could not be sustained. The facts showed that in 1943, the appellants grandfather was admitted to Zilla Parishad Primary School, Narangal, Degloor Taluka, Nanded District, with his caste recorded as Koli Mahadev. In 1975 and 1979, the appellants uncle, Vyankat Jalba Makalwad, and father, Madhav Jalba Makalwad, were admitted to Zilla Parishad Primary School, Kabirwadi, Degloor Taluka, with their caste recorded as Koli Mahadev. In 2005, the appellants admission record at Janta Vidya Mandir Primary School, Murud Taluka, Latur District, also reflected Koli Mahadev as his caste. Census data from 2001 indicated that the appellants village had a Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe population exceeding 40 per cent. In 2019, after securing 334 out of 720 marks in the NEET UG examination and becoming eligible for medical admission, the appellant applied for validation of his caste certificate. The Scrutiny Committee, however, rejected his claim and that of his father, disbelieving multiple documents. On June 24, 2019, it passed an order confiscating the caste certificate. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The appellant challenged the order in the High Court, but the court upheld the committees decision. In the appeal before the Supreme Court, it was argued that the committee had failed to accord due evidentiary weight to the pre-Independence record and had erred in relying heavily on the affinity test. The Supreme Court agreed, holding that the earlier findings were based on presumptions, without adequately considering binding precedents on the probative value of old records. The court declared the committees order and the High Courts decision unsustainable in law and ordered the issuance of the Caste Validity Certificate. About the Author Sanya Talwar Sanya Talwar, Editor at Lawbeat, has been heading the organisation since its inception. After practising in courts for over four years, she discovered her affinity for legal journalism. She has worked previousl... Read More Sanya Talwar, Editor at Lawbeat, has been heading the organisation since its inception. After practising in courts for over four years, she discovered her affinity for legal journalism. She has worked previousl... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 22:50 IST News india Pre-Independence Documents Have More Value Than 'Affinity Test' In Deciding Scheduled Tribe Status: SC 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... Rahul Gandhi To Withdraw Application Alleging 'Threat To Life' In Savarkar Defamation Case Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 08:29 IST The lawyer, in a new press statement, noted that Rahul Gandhi took serious exception to what was stated in the application. Congress leader and Leader of Opposition File pic/PTI Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhis legal team is set to withdraw an application that alleged a threat to his life in the Savarkar defamation case. Advocate Milind Pawar, representing Gandhi, admitted that he filed the plea without consulting the Congress leader. Recommended Stories Pawar stated that the application will be withdrawn on Thursday. In a fresh press statement, the lawyer revealed that Rahul Gandhi has taken strong exception to the filing of the plea dated August 13 and has expressed his agreement with the contents." Gandhi, in the application filed on Wednesday, cited a threat to his life, referring to his recent political confrontations and the familial connection of complainant Satyaki Savarkar in the ongoing defamation case. Pawar had filed the previous application regarding an alleged threat to Gandhis life without consulting the Leader of Opposition (LoP). The lawyer is representing Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case filed by Satyaki Savarkar, the grandnephew of freedom fighter Savarkar. Speaking to ANI, lawyer Milind Pawar said he filed the threat" plea as Satyaki Savarkar is the son of Himani Savarkar, who was the daughter of Gopal Godse, one of the accused in the Mahatma Gandhi assassination case. The lineage of the complainants mother: Nathuram Godse and Gopal Godse were two brothers accused in the Mahatma Gandhi assassination case along with Savarkar. Daughter of Gopal Godse is Himani Savarkar, who is the mother of the complainant," Pawar said. He added, For the last 15 days, Rahul Gandhi has raised his voice against the Election Commission, which is vote theft, and some people are unhappy with Rahul Gandhi over this. This fact should come on record before the court, and on that basis, I have filed this application. Two MPs have already threatened Rahul Gandhi. One, Ravneet Singh Bittu, publicly called Rahul Gandhi the number one terrorist of the country. BJP leader Tarvinder Singh Marwah has threatened that Rahul Gandhi that you will also meet the same fate as your grandmother." Perjury Plea Filed Against Rahul In defamation case A perjury application has been filed against the Congress leader for allegedly misleading the court.Kolhatkar, who represents complainant Satyaki Savarkar and moved the application before Judicial Magistrate (First Class) Amol Shinde on Wednesday, said Gandhis legal team had earlier been provided with all relevant documents in the case. We had supplied the relevant copies to Rahul Gandhis advocate Milind Pawar. He received them and signed before the court. Yet, Gandhi through his lawyer has blatantly denied receiving any such material from us. Gandhi is misleading the court. Since he holds a constitutional post as the Leader of the Opposition, we have strictly demanded that action be initiated against him," he said. The reply from Gandhis advocate is expected on September 10. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her... Read More Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can follow her... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 06:55 IST News india Rahul Gandhi To Withdraw Application Alleging 'Threat To Life' In Savarkar Defamation Case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... JERUSALEM, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Israel's Mossad chief David Barnea visited Doha on Thursday for talks with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on a Gaza hostage deal, Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported. A senior Israeli official told Kan that Barnea informed the Qatari prime minister that a phased deal for the release of the 50 hostages held in Gaza "is off the table." The official said the meeting focused on "issues involving the Mossad" and not on renewing the indirect negotiations in Doha, the last of which took place in early July. The visit comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that efforts to secure a truce in Gaza are now centered on a comprehensive deal to release all remaining hostages at once. Previous deals involved temporary truces in exchange for the phased release of hostages. Barnea's visit also follows reports that a Hamas delegation arrived in Qatar earlier this week, in a bid to revive negotiations and avert Israel's plan to further escalate its offensive in Gaza. As Israeli forces continued their assault in Gaza, local health authorities said Thursday that at least 50 people were killed throughout the enclave over the past 24 hours and 831 wounded, including 22 killed while trying to get food at aid centers. Since October 2023, at least 61,776 people have been killed by Israeli strikes and gunfire, the authorities added. Four more people died of famine and malnutrition, bringing the total to 239, including 106 children. Soil Samples, Victims Blood: Karnataka's Evidence Against Actor Darshan In Supreme Court Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 11:16 IST Darshan, actress Pavithra Gowda and several others, are accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavithra Karnataka had challenged the bail granted to Darshan and others in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepas bail in the Renukaswamy murder case, setting aside a Karnataka High Court order. Justice Mahadevan, who was hearing the case along with Justice JB Pardiwala, observed: We considered the grant of bail as well as cancellation, and it is evident that the high court order reflects mechanical exercise of power The grant of bail will impact the trial, and the witnesses can be influenced." Recommended Stories The bench, while emphasising that no man is above the law" and obedience to law is a rule, not a favour", added: The day we come to know that the accused is provided a five-star treatment, the first step would be to suspend the jail superintendent." Ordering that Darshan be taken into custody expeditiously," the court noted: In democracy, all persons are subject to equal access to law." The bench said the allegations against the actor, coupled with forensic evidence, reinforced the need to cancel his bail. We are satisfied to exercise our extraordinary jurisdiction," the order read. Darshan, actress Pavithra Gowda and several others, are accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavithra. According to the police, the victim was held in a shed in Bengaluru for three days in June 2024 and tortured. His body was later recovered from a drain. The Karnataka government had submitted a written argument to the Supreme Court to cancel the bail of Darshan and other accused, highlighting several key points to prove the actors alleged involvement and arguing that the high courts decision to grant bail was flawed. The states case included forensic evidence, such as soil samples on the accuseds footwear matching the crime scene and Renukaswamys blood on their clothes. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all It also alleged direct involvement by Darshan and Pavithra Gowda and claimed that the high courts finding about the non-lethal nature of the weapons was incorrect. Furthermore, the submission pointed to Darshans questionable conduct, such as attending a film premiere after claiming back pain for a court exemption. It also accused the high court of conducting an inappropriate mini-trial" by dismissing crucial evidence during the bail hearing. 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 14, 2025, 11:06 IST News india Soil Samples, Victims Blood: Karnataka's Evidence Against Actor Darshan In Supreme Court 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... 'Rules Framed, But No Action': SC Reserves Order In Stray Dog Matter, Raps Local Bodies Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 11:28 IST A Supreme Court bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan had earlier said that all localities should be made free of stray dogs and there should not be any compromise. Todays battlelines are not between the elite and non-elite but between the rooted and deracinated. A three-judge Bench of the Supreme Court, comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and NV Anjaria, has reserved its order on an interim plea requesting a stay on the suo motu directive concerning the removal of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR. The court observed that the entire problem had arisen due to the inaction of local authorities, saying that no implementation of the rules was carried out, which exacerbated the problem today, where humans were suffering, and animal lovers wanted dogs to be protected. Everyone who has come here to file intervention should take responsibility," said Justice Nath. Recommended Stories Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, pointed out that children were dying and that sterilisation did not stop the mutilisation of children. Mehta said India records about 37 lakh dog bite cases every year, nearly 10,000 a day, and 305 rabies deaths in the same period, though WHO estimates suggest the real figure is higher. People Who Eat Chicken, Meat The SG said he had seen people posting videos of eating meat, and then claiming to be animal lovers. Dogs do not have to be killed.. they have to be separated. Parents cannot send children out to play. Young girls are mutilated," he told the bench, describing the matter as a clash between the loud voices of a small group and the quiet suffering of the majority. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal targeted the municipal corporation, saying that there were no shelters and questioned where the stray dogs would be kept. He asked for the earlier Supreme Court order to be stayed, highlighting concerns over the well-being of lakhs of stray dogs and animal protection laws. Sibal asked where the dogs would go if they were not allowed to return after being sterilised. He also said that dogs are territorial in nature and keeping them confined in a shelter would lead to conflict, which would affect humans as well. Meanwhile, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi claimed there had been zero rabies deaths in Delhi, Goa and Rajasthan from 2022-25 and implored the government to look at its own data from the parliament from two weeks ago. He said the directions would not be an issue if shelters already existed. Supreme Court On Stray Dogs On Monday, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan said that all localities 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. The bench had directed the authorities to immediately create dog shelters and report to it about the creation of such infrastructure within eight weeks. It also ordered contempt proceedings against any individual or organisation that attempts to obstruct the authorities from carrying out the capture drive. After outrage from animal rights activists, Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, assured that he would look into the case and referred it to a larger bench. ALSO READ: No Cruelty, Mistreatment Or Starvation: SC Lists Strict Guidelines For Delhi Dogs Order Outrage Over SC Verdict According to official data, Delhi has recorded 26,000 dog bite cases so far this year. Till July 31, there have been 49 rabies cases. And between January and June, more than 65,000 stray dogs were sterilised and vaccinated. The two-judge bench stated that their decision was intended to safeguard public interest and must be implemented without emotional influence. They emphasised the urgency of prompt action and questioned whether animal activists could restore the lives lost due to rabies. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the other hand, dog lovers and animal right groups including several celebrities were outraged over the decision, saying that the decision was cruel and unscientific. They argued that the Delhi government had no shelters and the limited timeframe given by the apex court can result in the deaths of thousands of stray dogs. Several activists have highlighted that the rising stray dog population in Delhi reflected the failure to implement an effective sterilisation programme and said public resources should be utilised for a sterilisation drive rather than harsh removal campaigns. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 10:45 IST News india 'Rules Framed, But No Action': SC Reserves Order In Stray Dog Matter, Raps Local Bodies Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'What If An Infiltrator Enters': SC Refuses To Put Stay On Detention Of Bengali Muslims Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 12:58 IST The apex court declined an interim stay on the detention of Muslim Bengali migrant workers, citing concerns about the potential consequences of not monitoring illegal immigration. The matter came up before the SC bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi. (Image: PTI/File) The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to put an interim stay on the detention and deportation of Muslim Bengali migrant workers, highlighting concerns over illegal immigration going unchecked, while stressing a mechanism to identify bona fide workers. In a stern message, Justice Surya Kant said, We cannot overlook ground realities. Suppose someone is an Infiltrator and he enters illegally. How to deal with that situation? If you dont detain, the writing on the wall is that they will disappear." Recommended Stories Yes, some mechanism needs to be there (to identify workers). May be some card from place of origin and authorities from other state can accept the bona fide," Justice Kant added. The hearing came amid concerns that Bengali-speaking individuals were detained in the national capital on suspicion of being Bangladeshi citizens without verifying their identities. The West Bengal government has slammed the BJP-led Centre for targeting Bengalis, while Kolkata Police introduced a helpline for migrant workers from the state facing harassment and identity checks elsewhere. The petitioner, West Bengal Migrant Workers Welfare Board, urged the Supreme Court to direct the Central government to withdraw the May 2025 letter by the Home Ministry to detain suspected immigrants and restrain States from unlawfully detaining Bengali migrant workers. SC Awaits Response Of Centre, States States where these migrant workers are working have the right to inquire from their state of origin about their bonafide but the problem is in the interregnum. If we pass any interim orders, then it will have consequences, especially those who have illegally come from across the border and need to be deported under the law," the bench comprising Justices Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said. However, the Supreme Court bench asked advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for petitioner West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board, to wait for some time for the responses from the Centre and nine statesOdisha, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana and West Bengal. The Court added that it would hear the case next on August 25. Bhushan alleged that people are being harassed by the states just because they speak the Bengali language and have documents in that language on the basis of a circular issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). They are being detained while an inquiry is being held about their bona fide and in some cases, they are even tortured. Kindly pass an interim order stating that no detention will be held. I have no problem with enquiries, but there should not be any detention," he told the court. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has been attacking the BJP for allegedly labelling people from Bengal as Bangladeshis as the BJP-ruled states intensify their drive to identify infiltrators. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 12:17 IST News india 'What If An Infiltrator Enters': SC Refuses To Put Stay On Detention Of Bengali Muslims 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... Three Terror Associates Linked To Pakistan Arrested In J&K's Handwara Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 12:46 IST Security forces launched a joint operation in Qalamabad based on specific intelligence and arrested three terrorist associates linked to handlers based in Pakistan. Three terror associates linked to Pakistan were arrested in Handwara. (Image: PTI/Representational) The Jammu and Kashmir police, the Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) carried out a joint cordon-and-search operation in Handwara, Kupwara district, and apprehended three terror associates. According to an official statement, the security forces launched a joint operation in the Wajihama area of Qalamabad based on specific intelligence and arrested three terrorist associates linked to handlers based in Pakistan. Recommended Stories The three arrested individuals were identified as Mohd. Iqbal Pandith, 23, Sajad Ahmad Shah, 26, and Ishfaq Ahmad Malik, 22. The security forces also recovered arms, ammunition and incriminating material from the possession of the terror associates. A case FIR No. 30/2025 under Sections 7/25 IA Act, 13, 18, 23 UAPA has been registered at PS Qalamabad. Further investigation is underway to identify and arrest the other associates of this network, as per the statement. ALSO READ: Soldier Killed As Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid Along LoC In J&Ks Uri: Report This came after 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. The infiltration bid was foiled in the Churunda area of Uri in the Baramulla district of north Kashmir. An exchange of fire took place between the troops and the terrorists in which Hawaldar Ankit was killed in action, they said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all 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. Meanwhile, a Pakistani intruder attempting to cross into Indian territory was shot at by the Border Security Force (BSF) on Monday along the International Border in Jammu and Kashmirs Kathua district. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Handwara, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 12:44 IST News india Three Terror Associates Linked To Pakistan Arrested In J&K's Handwara 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... They Will Kill Me: Woman Texted Her Boyfriend Before Getting Killed For Honour In Gujarat Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 11:11 IST An 18-year-old NEET qualifier was killed by her father and two uncles to save the family's 'honor'. She had moved to Palanpur and entered a live-in relationship. Representative Image In a chilling case of saving familys honor, a father killed his own daughter in Gujarats Banaskantha. As per an official statement by the police on Wednesday, 18-year-old has cracked National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). She was allegedly killed by her father and two uncles on June 24. Danta division Assistant Superintendent of Police Suman Nala, the teen has quailed the exam with good marks. 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," Nala was quoted as saying by PTI. Recommended Stories To prepare for the NEET exam, the victim shifted to Palanpur town, and during that time, she got into a live-in relationship with a man. Girls Partner Filed A Complaint Surprisingly, victims death was first considered a natural death. However, her live-in partner, Haresh Chaudhary, filed a complaint at the Tharad police in the district on August 6. Based on the findings, booked the girls father Sendhabhai Patel and uncle Shivrambhai Patel for the murder. After the registration of FIR, police had arrested Shivrambhai and added the name of one Naran Patel to the FIR as co-accused Girls family was against her relationship and wanted to marry her elsewhere. Haresh told the police that he received a text from the victim that read, Come and get me; otherwise, my family will get me married against my will. If I dont agree to the marriage, they will kill me. Save me." As per the police official, Haresh is already married and has a son. He fell in love with the girl after he gave her a lift from Tharad town to Palanpur. It is unclear if the victim knew about his marital status. In May, both eloped to Ahmedabad, where they signed a formal agreement for a live-in relationship. However, on June 12, a police team from Tharad and a relative of the girl tracked them down to a hotel in Rajasthan. Chaudhary was arrested in an old case and while he was in jail he saw two messages from the victim on Instagram. She texted him on June 17 and expressed that she will be killed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all After reading the message, he 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. 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 : Gujarat, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 11:00 IST News india They Will Kill Me: Woman Texted Her Boyfriend Before Getting Killed For Honour In Gujarat 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... 'Tragic Chapter Of History': PM Modi Pays Tribute To Partition Survivors, Praises Their Grit Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 09:59 IST PM Modi paid homage to millions affected by the 1947 partition on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, honoring their resilience and emphasizing the importance of national harmony. File photo of Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Image: X/BJP) As the country observes the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tribute to millions of citizens who were affected by the tragic incidents unfolded during the partition of India in 1947. Calling it a tragic chapter of our history", Prime Minister Modi also praised the resilience of the bravehearts who faced unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh." Recommended Stories In an emotional message shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, India observes #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grittheir ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh.(sic)" India observes #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grittheir ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 14, 2025 In his post, PM Modi highlighted how many of those affected by the violence and displacement did not allow their circumstances to define their futures. He concluded the post by emphasizing the significance of national harmony. Many of those affected went on to rebuild their lives and achieve remarkable milestones. This day is also a reminder of our enduring responsibility to strengthen the bonds of harmony that hold our country together," he further wrote. The partition of India saw one of the largest mass migrations in human history. Tributes poured in for the victims and survivors of the partitions from several political leaders, including Union Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. In a post on X, Amit Shah remembered the pain of those affected by the partition and accused the Congress for hurting the pride of Mother India" #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay is a day to express condolences by remembering the pain of those who suffered due to the partition of the country and its tragedy. On this day, the Congress party divided the nation into pieces, hurting the pride of Mother India," he tweeted in Hindi. The partition led to violence, exploitation, and atrocities, and millions of people endured displacement. I offer my heartfelt tribute to all those people. The country will never forget this history and pain of the partition.I offer my tribute to those who lost their lives in this horror of the partition," he further wrote. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, Rajnath Singh affirmed governments commitment towards strengthening national harmony. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, recalling that painful chapter of 1947, I pay tribute to all those brothers and sisters who had to endure the horrific consequences of hatred and violence following Indias partition and witnessed the loss of life and property. Even today, every Indian feels empathy for those affected families. We are fully committed to further strengthening social harmony in the country," he tweeted. About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manisha.Roy@nw18... Read More First Published: August 14, 2025, 09:39 IST News india 'Tragic Chapter Of History': PM Modi Pays Tribute To Partition Survivors, Praises Their Grit 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... 'Painful Consequences': India Warns Pakistan Against Repeated Threats, War Rhetoric Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 17:07 IST MEA criticised Pakistan for "reckless, war-mongering and hateful" comments against India. MEA warned of "painful consequences" for any misadventure. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal (IMAGE: YouTube) Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday strongly criticised Pakistan for reckless, war-mongering and hateful" comments from its leadership against New Delhi, and warned that any misadventure would be dealt with painful consequences." While addressing the weekly press conference, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that it is the well-known modus operandi of Islamabad to rant anti-India rhetoric again and again. Recommended Stories We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering, and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures," he said as quoted by news agency ANI. #WATCH | Delhi | On Pakistani leaderships comments against India, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus pic.twitter.com/YlmHhIo7lV ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 Jaiswal further warned Islamabad to temper its rhetoric as any misadventure will have painful consequences. Further responding to a question regarding the award by the Court of Arbitration under the Indus Waters Treaty, Jaiswal said that India never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements are therefore without jurisdiction, devoid of legal standing, and have no bearing on Indias rights of utilisation of waters. India also categorically rejects Pakistans selective and misleading references to the so-called award". The Indus Waters Treaty stands in abeyance by a sovereign decision of the Government of India," he added. #WATCH | Delhi | On a question by ANI regarding the award by the Court of Arbitration under the Indus Water Treaty, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements pic.twitter.com/cx8zdrAtYN ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 The MEAs response came after Pakistani leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, threatened India for keeping the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack. While addressing an event in Islamabad on Tuesday, Sharif said, 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." 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. Before that, Pakistan 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. The Indus River is not the Indians family property. We have no shortage of resources to undo the Indian designs to stop the river." While addresing an event in Florida during his visit to the US, he threatened India, warning that Islamabad would plunge the region into nuclear war and could take almost half of the world" down if faced with an existential threat in a future conflict with New Delhi. On several occasions, Munir has blamed India without any evidence for the recent tensions in the region in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. After the Pahalgam attack, the diplomatic ties between India and Pakistan were downgraded with New Delhi announcing several punitive measures, including suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, cutting Islamabad Mission strength, and expulsion of its military attaches. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India and Pakistan exchanged cross-border hostilities for four days after the former launched Operation Sindoor against terror camps in the neighbouring country. New Delhi struck several air bases and dealt a crushing blow to the Islamabad Armys capabilities, while also effectively repelling missile and drone attacks. (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 14, 2025, 16:27 IST News india 'Painful Consequences': India Warns Pakistan Against Repeated Threats, War Rhetoric 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... When Nehru Rebuked Russia But Welcomed US: How Kerala Became A Cold War Battleground In 1957 Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 17:47 IST Between 1957 and 1959, funds were allegedly funnelled through Congress leaders and anti-communist factions, sparking political unrest in Kerala While Nehru publicly cautioned Russia, Western intelligence agencies were quietly being courted. File image/X Kerala, long regarded as the bastion of communists in India, has often found itself at the crossroads of global intrigue. Even today, the state is governed by the Left, but its political landscape has, at times, drawn the attention of the most powerful nations across the globe. In June this year, Kerala made headlines when a British F-35B fighter jet, grounded by bad weather, remained stuck for months. The incident attracted international curiosity, but it was not the first time this coastal state became the focus of global eyes. Decades earlier, during the height of the Cold War, Kerala was not just a political stronghold but a playground for international espionage. Recommended Stories In the 1950s and 1960s, both the Soviet Union and the United States maintained active spy networks in the region, quietly manoeuvring for influence. The states strategic political shift in 1957 made it a flashpoint. That year, the Communist Party of India (CPI) won state elections, forming the first democratically elected communist government in the country, a move that stunned capitals from the US to the UK. The West viewed this as a direct extension of Russias influence into South Asia. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, though wary of Western fears, was equally concerned about foreign interference. According to Indian Express archives, shortly after the CPIs victory, a senior communist leader sought to travel to Moscow to study governance under Soviet guidance. In April 1957, Intelligence Bureau chief BN Mullick alerted Nehru to the plan. The prime minister reacted sharply, summoning Soviet ambassador Alexander Menshikov and warning him against meddling in Indias internal affairs. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Yet, while Nehru publicly cautioned Russia, Western intelligence agencies were quietly being courted. The CIA, alongside British intelligence, actively worked to undermine the Left government. Between 1957 and 1959, funds were allegedly funnelled through Congress leaders and anti-communist factions, sparking political unrest. By 1959, the CPI government was dismissed. The US later accused the Soviets of funding Keralas communists, while historians have pointed to possible covert cooperation between Nehrus administration and the CIA in the governments ouster. The episode left Kerala with a Cold War legacy, a land where ideological battles once played out on the worlds stage, and where the fight for influence was waged not just in rallies and elections, but in the shadowy world of espionage. Location : Kerala, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 17:47 IST News india When Nehru Rebuked Russia But Welcomed US: How Kerala Became A Cold War Battleground In 1957 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... 5 Ways To Fill A Large Space Without Overcrowding It Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 21:42 IST Three top interior designers reveal how to make large rooms feel warm, functional, and stylish without overcrowding them. Big space, bold balance the art of filling without overfilling A large room can be both a designers dream and a challenge. While the openness offers endless possibilities, without thoughtful planning, such spaces can easily feel cold, cavernous, or chaotic. The key lies in creating balance filling the space with intention, not excess while allowing it to remain inviting, functional, and aesthetically cohesive. Three design experts share their strategies to make vast interiors feel alive, layered, and beautifully proportioned. Think Purpose Before Placement Recommended Stories Every space serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose," says Sanjay Pareek, Co-Founder and Director, Beyond & More. He emphasises that zoning should be guided by the intended use of each area whether its a hotel lobby, corporate reception, or a collaborative social zone. Ceiling height can guide furniture selection, and for densely populated spaces, pieces with acoustic properties can be incorporated to manage noise," he adds. Different seating styles from a formal lounge to cafe tables or bar stools can visually and functionally define sections, keeping the environment dynamic yet cohesive. Curate Focal Points, Not Clutter A generous floor plan offers freedom, but without focal points, it risks feeling impersonal. Anisha Gupta Jain, Founder, Archipod Design Studio, suggests creating more than one visual anchor perhaps a sculptural fireplace, a grand piano, or oversized artwork. Let each vignette tell its own story," she says. The aim is to draw the eye across the room without overwhelming it with too many competing elements. Let Light Lead the Way Lighting isnt just functional, its a design tool. Jain recommends architectural chandeliers to define a spaces purpose, while layered lamps can introduce intimacy to otherwise expansive corners. This interplay between illumination and shadow helps carve a sense of scale, warmth, and mood. Balance Scale with Statement Filling a large space doesnt mean cluttering it, its about creating balance, flow, and intention," notes Neha Bhasin, Founder & Creative Director, Neha Bhasin Interior Design. She advises starting with a bold rug or oversized art to anchor the room, then using generously scaled furniture with clean lines to keep the space open and breathable. Layer Textures, Greenery, and Negative Space Bhasin also encourages layering think woven baskets, plush throws, or natural woods for warmth and incorporating tall plants or grouped greenery to add life without bulk. Just as importantly, she stresses the value of negative space: Sometimes, the absence of objects allows the room to breathe, drawing attention to what is there." Blend, Dont Match top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all For personality and depth, Jain recommends mixing eras, materials, and textures velvet with linen, brass with reclaimed wood creating contrast that feels collected over time rather than purchased all at once. Elegance, she says, lies in eclecticism done right. In the end, large spaces thrive on thoughtful editing. As Pareek points out, variety in seating and function can break monotony, Bhasins principles of intentional layering prevent visual noise, and Jains focus on focal points, lighting, and material mix ensures warmth and character. Together, these strategies prove that in big spaces, less can indeed be more provided every element is chosen with purpose. 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 14, 2025, 21:42 IST News lifestyle 5 Ways To Fill A Large Space Without Overcrowding It Why Snoring Might Start In Your Mouth And How Dentists Can Help You Sleep Better Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 13:19 IST While nasal blockages and allergies are well-known culprits, dentists are pointing to a lesser-known origin: your mouth. Beyond being a nightly nuisance, chronic snoring disrupts restorative sleep, impacts overall health, and even strains relationships Snoring may be the butt of many jokes, but for those who live with it or sleep beside it the consequences are no laughing matter. Beyond being a nightly nuisance, chronic snoring disrupts restorative sleep, impacts overall health, and even strains relationships. In fact, sleep divorces" couples sleeping in separate rooms are becoming more common. While nasal blockages and allergies are well-known culprits, dentists are pointing to a lesser-known origin: your mouth. Snoring could be due to many reasons like blocked nasal passages or allergies, but causes may also arise in our oral cavity," explains Dr Nikita Motwani, Specialist, Aesthetic Dentistry and Co-Founder, Smile Concepts. Poor jaw alignment, restricted airways, an enlarged tongue, improper lower jaw position, and even obesity can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep." Recommended Stories Dr Manvi Srivastava, Dentist, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital, agrees, noting that snoring is often not just a nasal problem, but actually based in the structures of the mouth itself." She explains that jaw misalignment whether an overbite, underbite, or a recessed jaw can limit the airway, especially when muscle tone relaxes during sleep. This allows the tongue to fall back, narrowing the airway and triggering the vibrations we call snoring," she says. To pinpoint the exact cause, dentists employ a combination of advanced tools and assessments. We use investigations like CBCT imaging, intraoral scans, bite analysis, and even sleep studies to understand the abnormal factors," says Dr. Motwani. Once diagnosed, we can create a customised oral appliance similar in appearance to a mouthguard that gently repositions the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open." Dr Srivastava highlights that these mandibular advancement devices are non-invasive, simple to wear, and highly effective for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea." They not only help reduce snoring but also improve the quality of sleep for both patients and their partners. In cases linked to bruxism or TMJ disorders, reducing jaw tension and correcting dysfunction can also prevent portions of the airway from collapsing," she adds. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all For more advanced cases, Dr. Motwani notes that CPAP machines remain the gold standard, but oral appliances are a preferred first line of treatment for many. Adjunct therapies such as aligning teeth with braces or aligners, jaw and tongue exercises to strengthen airway muscles, lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake, losing weight, and sleeping on ones side can further enhance results. Ultimately, tackling snoring at its dental root doesnt just promise quieter nights, it delivers healthier mornings. As Dr Motwani sums it up: When we treat the cause, not just the symptom, we give patients the gift of restful, restorative sleep." 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 14, 2025, 13:19 IST News lifestyle health-and-fitness Why Snoring Might Start In Your Mouth And How Dentists Can Help You Sleep Better BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- China urges Japan to have a profound reflection on history, learn lessons from history, stay prudent on the Taiwan question, refrain from harming China's sovereignty in any form, and avoid sending any wrong message to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said Thursday. Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks when asked to comment on media reports that the Japanese government said Chinese Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Han Jun canceled his planned visit to Japan, and there are media analysis saying that the move is related to the visit to Japan by head of Taiwan's so-called foreign affairs authorities Lin Chia-lung. "I'd refer you to competent authorities on the specific reason of Minister Han Jun postponing his visit to Japan," said Lin Jian, adding that China holds an open attitude toward maintaining engagement at various levels with Japan. The spokesperson said that if Japan has the sincerity of conducting exchanges with China, it should take concrete actions to earnestly abide by the one-China principle, uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and act on the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan as well as Japan's commitment of comprehensively advancing the China-Japan strategic relationship of mutual benefit, instead of saying one thing but doing another. On Lin Chia-lung's visit to Japan, the spokesperson stressed that by allowing Lin Chia-lung to pay a "personal trip," Japan provides a stage for the separatist activities of "Taiwan independence" forces, seriously violates the basic norms governing international relations and principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, and sends out a severely wrong signal. Independence Day 2025: Celebration Ideas For Home, School And Office On August 15 Written By : Trending Desk Last Updated: August 15, 2025, 06:51 IST Independence Day 2025 brings a chance to celebrate Indias legacy at home, school, or office. Here are creative and meaningful ideas to honour August 15 with pride and unity. India Independence Day: On August 15, Citizens celebrate their nation and its incredible journey with a series of patriotic gestures. (AI generated image) Independence Celebration Ideas: India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on August 15. At the stroke of midnight on August 15, 1947, India awoke to the light of freedom and began its tryst with destiny, overcoming 200 years of British colonial rule and exploitation. The day remembers the great sacrifice of Indias leaders and freedom fighters, who waged the battle against the oppressors and paved the way to a free, secular and democratic country that continues to grow strong despite its cultural and geopolitical challenges. ALSO READ: Happy Independence Day 2025: 79+ Heartfelt Wishes, Images, Gif, Quotes, Slogans, Messages, Instagram & WhatsApp Status For 15th August Recommended Stories On August 15, Indian citizens celebrate their nation and its incredible journey with a series of patriotic gestures. Be it at home, school or their offices, Indians mark the Independence Day with a list of thoughtful ideas and activities that reflect their great sense of pride in the motherland. Here are some of the ideas on how you can join in the Independence Day celebrations this year. ALSO READ: Independence Day 2025: Theme, History, Significance, Guestlist And 79th I-Day Celebrations Flag Hoisting Ceremony On every Independence Day in India, citizens gather with their family, friends and neighbours for the flag hoisting ceremonies and sing the national anthem across the country, paying respect to the tri-colour, which stands as a symbol of Indias great strength: unity in diversity. Exhibitions Exhibitions are held across the nation to celebrate the country and highlight its remarkable journey, including pre-independence and post-independence achievements. Such exhibitions feature pictures of freedom fighters, other historical photographs, indigenous products, handcrafted items, books and other important readings related to the Independence struggle. They offer an excellent opportunity for kids and youth to understand the great pains taken by our freedom fighters to give us the country we have today. ALSO READ: Happy Independence Day 2025: Patriotic Quotes By Freedom Fighters Of India To Share As Wishes And Messages On 15th August Art and Craft Competition Talking of children and young adults, the art and craft competitions organised on Independence Day present another wonderful opportunity to inculcate respect and understanding towards the freedom struggle and love for the motherland in a very creative and artistic way. From making tri-colour posters to creating rangolis on the turf, involving youth in such acts helps spread awareness about the nation while enhancing their artistic skills. Functions top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Many schools and educational institutions organise pre-Independence Day functions, where they not only invite elders, retired army personnel, or teachers to narrate stories about the freedom struggle but also engage kids and youngsters in music and dance shows on songs that celebrate the country. In such a setting, it is easier to create interest and curiosity about Indias past and participation in present works among the youth. 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 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 14, 2025, 09:30 IST News lifestyle Independence Day 2025: Celebration Ideas For Home, School And Office On August 15 Spain To Mumbai: War 2 Filming Locations Youll Want To Add To Your Travel List Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 09:48 IST Starring Hrithik Roshan and Jr NTR, War 2 has now released in theatres. Let's take a look at some of the stunning locations this action movie was shot in. War 2 blends high-octane stunts with picturesque landscapes. The sixth instalment in YRFs ambitious Spy Universe, War 2, is more than just an action blockbuster. Its also a cinematic passport, taking audiences on a whirlwind journey through some of the worlds most scenic and adrenaline-charged destinations. Directed by Ayan Mukerji and mounted on a massive Rs 400-crore budget, the film promises a visual feast that blends high-octane stunts with postcard-perfect landscapes. While fans are buzzing about Hrithik Roshan reprising his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal and the exciting addition of Jr NTR and Kiara Advani to the lead cast, travel lovers have another reason to watch: the films sprawling, globe-trotting locations. Each city in War 2 plays its part in the story sometimes as a romantic backdrop, other times as the pulse-pounding setting for death-defying action. Recommended Stories Salamanca, Spain: Old-World Charm Meets Chase Scenes The historic city of Salamanca adds a dash of European elegance to the chaos of action. Around Plaza de Anaya, with its grand facades and leafy surroundings, a high-speed chase unfolds: think cars tearing past centuries-old buildings, merging heritage with heart-pounding thrills. Italy: A Love Letter in Motion The romantic number Aavan Jaavan" takes audiences to Italys most photogenic corners. Imagine Romes timeless landmarks, such as the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain, framing Hrithik and Kiara as they weave through the city on a vintage bike. The sequence drifts into Tuscanys golden countryside, where rolling vineyards and sunlit hills bring an almost dreamlike calm before the storys next storm. Abu Dhabi: Adrenaline on the Water From romance to raw velocity, Abu Dhabi provides the setting for a sleek boat chase that slices through glittering waters. The Yas Marina Circuit also gets a starring moment, offering sweeping drone shots of one of the worlds most iconic racing tracks. Mumbai, India: The Storys Beating Heart top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Despite its global footprint, War 2 returns home to Mumbai for key sequences. Andheris bustling streets stage gritty action, while a daring aerial stunt over Vile Parle adds a fresh perspective to the city skyline. NTR Jrs grand entry unfolds at Malads Infiniti Mall, proving that even familiar urban spaces can be transformed into cinematic spectacles. With War 2 releasing August 14, 2025, audiences can expect a story that doesnt just span borders, it invites you to travel them. Whether youre chasing romance, adrenaline, or both, the films locations make a strong case for adding a few new pins to your travel map. 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 14, 2025, 09:48 IST News lifestyle travel Spain To Mumbai: War 2 Filming Locations Youll Want To Add To Your Travel List Weekend Wonders: 6 Quirky Escapes To Break The Routine Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:40 IST Most travelers are choosing to revisit their heritage, seek serene escapes, or simply break free from city life One of the worlds oldest and holiest cities, Varanasi draws pilgrims in search of a spiritual awakening The August calendar is treating travelers to a celebration of sorts, with many making plans for a 45 day getaway. This extended weekend is creating huge demand for intercity travel, particularly by bus, thanks to its convenience, affordability, and growing connectivity. Based on travel trends, both spiritual and hill destinations are witnessing a significant surge in interest. Most travelers are choosing to revisit their heritage, seek serene escapes, or simply break free from city life. Whether its a family pilgrimage, a short adventure, or a cultural deep dive, Sanjay Jadoun, CEO of YoloBus, shares six cities topping the charts this season. Recommended Stories Varanasi For a Spiritual and Cultural Reboot One of the worlds oldest and holiest cities, Varanasi draws pilgrims in search of a spiritual awakening. From the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat to wandering through centuries-old alleys, its a truly soul-stirring experience. Manali For Cool Weather and Adventure Nestled in the lap of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is ideal for those seeking crisp mountain air and breathtaking vistas. Whether its paragliding, trekking, or sipping coffee at a cozy cafe, its perfect for young tourists, couples, and group travelers. Rishikesh Where Peace Meets Thrill Rishikesh blends tranquility with adventure, offering white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and trekking alongside yoga retreats that attract wellness-focused weekenders. Hyderabad A City of Culture, Cuisine & Contrasts Hyderabad offers a fascinating mix of royal heritage and modern vibrancy. A foodies paradise, its famous for its signature biryani, historical landmarks like Golconda Fort, and the colorful chaos of its local bazaars. Katra Gateway to Vaishno Devi A sacred destination in Jammu, Katra sees a special surge in visitors during Raksha Bandhan, as families embark on the Vaishno Devi yatra. The climb and devotional atmosphere make it a fulfilling weekend itinerary. Ayodhya Emerging as a Spiritual Tourism Hub top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Ayodhya is gaining attention thanks to recent infrastructure upgrades and its rich mythological heritage. With its deep cultural and religious significance, its attracting pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. 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, Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. 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 14, 2025, 14:40 IST News lifestyle Weekend Wonders: 6 Quirky Escapes To Break The Routine Why Modern Brides Are Saying Yes To Rewearable And Versatile Wedding Fashion Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 13:45 IST The modern bride is redefining her wedding trousseau by investing in pieces that go beyond her wedding day. This trend enhances sustainability, practicality, and personal significance in bridal wear. As the wedding season draws closer, the Indian bridal trousseau is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation. Gone are the days when a lehenga or a jewellery set was destined to live in storage after a single wear. Brides today are seeking pieces that evolve with them. They are looking for adaptable silhouettes, detachable elements, and jewellery that can be worn far beyond the wedding day. Designer Ridhi Mehra observes, Brides no longer want outfits that will only be worn once and then stored away. Theyre looking for pieces that can live on beyond the wedding day, reimagined for other occasions while still holding the emotion and grandeur of the moment." Recommended Stories Bridal Wear That Travels Through Time From lehengas with removable cancan layers to dupattas that double as capes for cocktail nights, the modern brides wardrobe is built with versatility at its core. Designers are offering ornate blouses that pair with saris, lighter skirts that can be dressed down, and separates that work for both festive gatherings and anniversary dinners. A blouse that detaches from its lehenga and pairs with a sari, a dupatta that works as a cape these small but meaningful details make the outfit uniquely theirs", notes Vani Vats, founder of Vvani by Vani Vats. Its not just about practicality. Many brides are weaving personal history into their ensembles incorporating embroidery inspired by heirloom jewellery, or transforming a mothers sari pallu into a veil. Bridal Jewellery That Lives On The jewellery narrative mirrors this shift. Sonal Sawansukha of Jewel Saga explains, The modern bride values versatility, personalization and craftsmanship that reflects her individuality. Theres a beautiful shift toward custom crafted heirlooms designs that blend heritage techniques with contemporary silhouettes, ensuring theyre cherished for generations yet adaptable to todays lifestyle." Whether its refurbishing heirloom pieces or opting for silver and moissanite over heavier polki sets, brides are prioritising wearability and smart investment. Karishma Mehra of Joolry adds, Many brides are moving away from heavy investments in polki and diamonds. This allows them to allocate their budgets to other meaningful investments while still enjoying versatile, stunning pieces." Neeti Patwa of Oropel defines it simply: A modern heirloom is one you can live in. Jewellery should adapt to your life, whether youre at a wedding, travelling, or meeting friends for brunch." Personal, Practical, and Sustainable: The Mantra Of The Modern Bride Beyond style, this shift signals a move toward sustainability. As Ridhi Mehra puts it, The wedding look is no longer the end of the journey for the garment, its just the beginning." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Re-wearing and repurposing garments and jewellery reduces waste and keeps craftsmanship alive. Lighter fabrics, fluid silhouettes, and adaptable designs mean brides can carry their wedding pieces into future milestones, whether its lending a dupatta to a cousin, restyling a necklace for a festive lunch, or wearing that wedding blouse with denim for a fashion-forward twist. The modern brides wardrobe and jewellery box are no longer defined by one-day splendour alone. By embracing versatile silhouettes, custom-crafted heirlooms, and designs that balance heritage with wearability, todays brides are ensuring their wedding ensembles continue to hold meaning for years to come. 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 14, 2025, 13:45 IST News lifestyle Why Modern Brides Are Saying Yes To Rewearable And Versatile Wedding Fashion Opinion | Indias New Normal: Zero Tolerance For Terror Written By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:08 IST PM Modi underlined that India has laid down a new red line with Operation Sindoor on terrorism, calling it the new normal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Adampur air base. (Image/X) Operation Sindoor was a masterclass in modern warfare, showcasing Indias evolution from traditional military tactics to a tech-driven, intelligence-led approach. The Indian Armed Forces, comprising the Army, Air Force and Navy, worked in seamless coordination, employing indigenously developed weapons like the BrahMos missile, Akash air defense system and D-4 anti-drone systems. The operation was marked by real-time intelligence, surgical strikes, and non-kinetic warfare in domains like space, cyber and electronic warfare, highlighting Indias technological edge. Terror and talks cant go together; terror and trade cant go together; blood and water cant flow together. No nuclear blackmail will be tolerated anymore," said PM Naredra Modi on May 12, 2025, in a spellbinding address to the nation. Operation Sindoor is the new policy on terror," added Modi. He underlined that India has laid down a new red line with this military operation on terrorism, calling it the new normal. It all began on May 7, 2025, when India launched Operation Sindoor, a meticulously planned and decisively executed military operation targeting terrorist infrastructure in both mainland Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Spearheaded under the astute leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this operation was a stunningly bold response to the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives, including tourists and a Nepali citizen. Operation Sindoor not only avenged the loss of innocent lives but also redefined Indias national security doctrine, establishing a new normal". The Pahalgam terror attack was a grim reminder of Pakistans persistent role in sponsoring cross-border terrorism. The attack, which targeted civilians, including women, was described by PM Modi as a personal tragedy" that wiped out the sindoor" (vermilion, a symbol of married women in India) of Indian sisters and daughters. The naming of the operation as Sindoor was a deliberate choice, suggested by Modi himself, to send a powerful message to terrorists about the consequences of targeting Indian citizens. The operation was launched in the early hours of May 7, 2025, with the Indian Armed Forces executing 24 precision strikes on nine terrorist targets across Pakistan and PoK in just 25 minutes. Recommended Stories The operation was a retaliation for years of Pakistans state-sponsored terrorism, with specific targets including terror camps in Bahawalpur and Muridke, which Modi publicly called universities of terror." The strikes eliminated over 100 deadly terrorists, including those involved in historical atrocities like the IC-814 hijacking and the Pulwama blasts. The success of Operation Sindoor lay not only in its immediate outcomes but also in its demonstration of Indias military precision, technological superiority and unwavering resolve of the Modi government. The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a pivotal role, bypassing Pakistans Chinese-supplied defence systems to deliver precise strikes on terrorist infrastructure and later, Pakistani military targets in response to their retaliatory attacks. Satellite imagery released by India showed extensive damage to Pakistani air bases, including Rahim Yar Khan, Rafiqui, Murid, Nur Khan, Sukkur, Chunian, Pasrur, and Sialkot, with craters on runways and destroyed military installations. The IAFs ability to neutralise Pakistans drone and missile attacks, including intercepting incursions in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan and Gujarat, underscored Indias formidable air defense capabilities. The operation also countered Pakistans propaganda. When Pakistan claimed to have destroyed Indian assets like MiG-29 jets and S-400 systems, PM Modis visit to the Adampur Air Base on May 13, 2025, with an intact MiG-29 and S-400 in the background, served as a visual rebuttal. This strategic move not only debunked Pakistans false narrative but also boosted the morale of Indian troops and citizens. Operation Sindoor was more than a mere military operation; it was a tactical, doctrinal shift in Indias approach to terrorism. In his televised address to the nation on May 13, 2025, PM Modi emphasised that the operation was a new normal" in Indias national security policy, characterised by three key principles: zero tolerance for terrorism, no engagement with nuclear blackmail and no differentiation between terrorists and their state sponsors. This policy shift was a direct challenge to Pakistans long-standing strategy of using terrorism as a tool of statecraft while hiding behind the threat of nuclear escalation. PM Modis iconic address on May 12, 2025, emphasised that Operation Sindoor was not concluded but merely on hold," with the future depending on Pakistans behaviour. He warned that any further terror attacks would be met with a befitting reply" on Indias terms. This assertive stance resonated globally, with India briefing defence attaches from 70 nations (excluding China) on the operations success, reinforcing its message of strength and resolve. The operation also exposed Pakistans complicity in terrorism. Modi highlighted instances of Pakistani military officers attending terrorists funerals, presenting this as evidence of State-sponsored terrorism. By targeting not just terror camps but also military installations in response to Pakistans retaliatory strikes, India sent a clear message that it would hold the Pakistani State accountable for its actions. At the heart of Operation Sindoors success was the decisive leadership of PM Narendra Modi. His hands-on approach, from naming the operation to chairing multiple meetings of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), ensured that the operation was executed with precision and aligned with Indias broader strategic goals. Modis ability to unite the nation was evident in the bipartisan support for the operation, with even opposition leaders like Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praising his handling of the conflict. Tharoor described Modis leadership as extremely well" executed, lauding the operations planning and messaging. Modis personal touch was also evident in his engagement with the armed forces. His visit to the Adampur Air Base, where he addressed soldiers and linked modern Indian weaponry to the legendary horse Chetak of Maharana Pratap, boosted troop morale and resonated with the public. By dedicating the operations success to Indias mothers, sisters, and daughters, Modi connected the fight against terrorism to a deeply emotional and cultural narrative, strengthening national resolve. Moreover, the Modi government took proactive steps to counter misinformation and cyberattacks. During the operation, India reportedly faced significant cyberattacks from State-backed hackers in Pakistan and China, Indias robust cybersecurity measures however, neutralised these threats, ensuring operational continuity. The government also withheld the X account of Turkish broadcaster TRT World in India, citing its role in spreading anti-India narratives, further demonstrating Modis commitment to safeguarding national interests. Domestically, Operation Sindoor galvanised the nation. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised Tiranga Yatra processions across the country to honor the armed forces, with participation from retired soldiers. Public sentiment was overwhelmingly positive, with reports of parents in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan naming newborn girls Sindoor" in tribute to the operation. The operation also sparked a surge in defence stocks, reflecting investor confidence in Indias military capabilities. Internationally, Operation Sindoor reshaped perceptions of Indias military and diplomatic clout. The operation established India as a self-reliant power capable of unilateral action. Indias decision to brief 70 nations on the operation underscored its intent to project strength and transparency on the global stage. Pakistan, on the other hand, was left reeling by its inability to counter Indias narrative or military success. Clearly, under the Modi doctrine, self-reliance not only means catering to Indias own security needs, but it also envisages making the country a key exporter of defence equipment to the global market. The launch of the BrahMos facility in Lucknow for instance, is a firm stride towards making India a significant player in the worlds defence production ecosystem. Creating a strong development ecosystem and implementing initiatives such as setting-up of UPDIC, establishment of DRDOs Defence Technology & Test Centre in Lucknow and hosting DefExpo in 2020, have been major milestones. The new facility in Lucknow will give a fillip to the Make-in-India initiative, Aatmanirbharta and investment in defence manufacturing. The 200-acre BrahMos Integration and Testing Facility Centre in Lucknow will have integration of booster subassemblies, avionics, propellant and Ramjet engines. The Rs 300 crore complex will pave the way for skill development for industry and entrepreneurs in a long way. The entire defence ecosystem of ancillary and sub-assemblies will be developed in the vicinity to support the complex. It will help in a big way in industrialisation and skill development of students of ITI, supervisors, and engineers. It will also ensure that people are not forced to migrate to look for job opportunities. The Indian armed forces ability to execute such Operation Sindoor in a short time frame was the result of years of modernisation under Modis dynamic leadership. The shift to a non-contact war model," emphasising drones, missiles, and cyber capabilities, enabled India to strike deep into enemy territory without risking large-scale troop deployments. This transformation, painstakingly built over a decade, distinguished Operation Sindoor from earlier operations like the 2016 Uri surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, which relied on traditional warfare models. Needless to add, Operation Sindoor,has been a quantum leap" from the localized 2016 Surgical Strike and the single-target 2019 Balakot Airstrike, targeting multiple, high-value sites deep inside Pakistans heartland, including the Punjab province, near Lahore. From basic ground combat (2016) to advanced air-delivered munitions (2019) to sophisticated standoff missiles and drones (2025), Sindoor reflects Indias shift to technology-driven warfare, under the bold and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The far-sighted Modi doctrine, emphatically establishing Indias new normal, is essentially all about putting the nation first, self-reliance, combat readiness, technological agility and above all, a ruthlessly uncompromising attitude when it comes to crushing terror in any form. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Looking ahead, Operation Sindoor has set a precedent for Indias response to terrorism. The operations success has strengthened Modis image as a tough negotiator and a leader committed to national security. Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to Indias resolve, military prowess and the visionary leadership of PM Narendra Modi. By targeting terrorist infrastructure with unprecedented precision, countering Pakistans propaganda and redefining Indias national security doctrine, the operation has reshaped the dynamics of India-Pakistan relations. Modis ability to unite the nation, leverage indigenous technology and project strength globally has made Operation Sindoor a super success, not just in military terms but as a symbol of Indias unwavering commitment to justice and sovereignty. As the operation remains on hold," the world watches to see how Pakistan responds to Indias new normal a normal defined by strength, resolve, and zero tolerance for terrorism. Sanju Verma is an Economist, National Spokesperson for BJP and Bestselling Author of The Modi Gambit. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: August 14, 2025, 16:08 IST News opinion Opinion | Indias New Normal: Zero Tolerance For Terror Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Opinion | Trump-Putin Summit, The Nobel Peace Prize And Other Imponderables Written By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:07 IST President Trump is pushing for a Ukraine-Russia ceasefire, but deep differences between both sides make ending the three-year conflict extremely difficult. Trump and Putin will hold talks on August 15 to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. (AP/File) The Russia-Ukraine war faces significant obstacles to ending, primarily due to the conflicting territorial and political demands of both sides. Ukraine insists on reclaiming all its lost territories, including Crimea, and will not renounce its intention of becoming a NATO member. Russia, on the other hand, seeks sweeping political changes in Kyiv and aims to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO. These fundamental disagreements create a deadlock that makes a negotiated settlement extremely difficult. Neither side is willing to end the war on terms that are acceptable to the other side. Against this background, President Donald Trump said hell be meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, 15th August, in Alaska, to work out a potential peace deal to end the war in Ukraine that could include some swapping of territories." Trumps announcement came on the day which he had set as the deadline for Putin to make peace or face severe economic punishment. Recommended Stories Trump posted on Truth Social: 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. Further details to follow". India has said that it welcomes the understanding reached between the United States and the Russian Federation for a meeting in Alaska on 15th August 2025", and that this meeting holds the promise of bringing to an end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and opening up the prospects for peace." Being Indias Independence Day, 15th August is a very auspicious day for all Indians, and one cannot but hope that it proves auspicious for the Ukrainians and Russians also. Chinas President Xi Jinping has also said he is pleased to see Moscow maintain contact with the United States to advance a political resolution of the Ukraine crisis. However, while President Trump is pushing for a potential ceasefire agreement that could end Russias three-year war against Ukraine, the huge divergence between the Russian and Ukrainian positions will make it extremely difficult to bring the conflict to an end. Trump and Putin had last met in 2019 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka and have not met since then. Moreover, Putin has not visited the US since 2015 when he attended the UN General Assembly meeting. Interestingly, in his address to the General Assembly, Putin had stressed the vital importance of respecting State sovereignty" and had said that many of the crises facing the world have been exacerbated by countries acting against sovereign States outside the UN Charter!" Ironically, Putin is now widely accused of undermining Ukraines sovereignty, and this has been a central accusation throughout the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict which escalated into a full-scale invasion in February 2022. Trump said he would hold a meeting with Putin regardless of whether the Russian leader agrees to meet his Ukrainian counterpart Zelensky. A White House press official had earlier said that a meeting between Putin and Zelensky was a precondition to a meeting between Putin and Trump, but Putin had rejected the idea of meeting Zelensky. In May 2025, Putin had similarly declined to meet with Zelenskyy during talks in Turkey and instead sent a lower-level delegation led by Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky. Ahead of the planned Trump-Putin summit, Putin reiterated that the conditions were not yet in place for a meeting with Zelensky, although Trump had suggested a trilateral summit earlier. Russian officials have stated that high-level talks require meticulous preparation and that Putin would only consider a meeting during the final stages of peace negotiations or after a draft agreement has been reached. Russian media and officials have frequently sought to undermine Zelenskys legitimacy, viewing him as a loser" and a clown," and claiming he is not a valid negotiating partner. Some analysts suggest that Putin doesnt want to appear pressured into a meeting on Zelenskys terms, as it could be seen as backing down, especially after Zelenskys ultimatums. In essence, while Zelensky has expressed willingness to meet with Putin, Putin has consistently resisted the idea, citing the lack of necessary preconditions and portraying Zelensky as an illegitimate negotiating partner. US officials have reportedly briefed their Ukrainian counterparts on a plan offered by Putin to halt the war in Ukraine in exchange for significant territorial concessions by Kyiv. This plan would require Ukraine to cede the eastern Donbas region the majority of which is currently occupied by Russia as well as Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Putin reportedly presented this plan to Trumps foreign envoy Steve Witkoff in a meeting in Moscow on Wednesday. It wasnt clear what the plan would mean for two other regions in Ukraine Zaporizhzhya and Kherson where Russia controls some territory, beyond Russia stopping its offensive there. Ukraines President Zelensky has totally rejected the idea of making any territorial concessions and ceding any territory. In a video address after Trumps announcement about the forthcoming meeting with Putin, Zelensky said that Ukraine is also ready to work together with President Trump," but vowed that his people will not give their land to the occupier." Zelensky said: Any decisions that are against us, any decisions that are without Ukraine, are also decisions against peace. These are dead decisions. They will never work. And we all need a real, living peace that people will respect." In a video shared on social media, Zelenskyy said Ukraine was ready for real decisions" that could bring a dignified peace" but stressed there could be no violation of the constitution on territorial issues. He also said, The answer to the Ukrainian territorial issue is already in the Constitution of Ukraine. No one will and cannot deviate from this. Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier." Therefore, Ukraines government and people are unlikely to accept ceding any territory to Russia, especially given the high political and human costs of such a concession. They also prioritize NATO membership as a security guarantee. On the other hand, Russia insists on maintaining control over territories it currently occupies and demands significant political concessions from Ukraine, including a neutral status that effectively excludes NATO membership. Putins vision for the war also includes subjugating Ukraine and preventing it from having the right to join NATO, making even a temporary ceasefire difficult. It seems that Putin has framed the war as an existential struggle for his legacy, making it difficult for him to concede without appearing defeated. He has even made it clear that his intentions in this war are to subjugate Ukraine, deprive it of sovereignty and prevent it from having the right to join NATO. Despite the economic and human costs of the war, Putins popularity remains relatively high, potentially encouraging him to maintain the conflict rather than seek a negotiated settlement. Moreover, deep-seated mistrust between Russia and Ukraine, as well as between Russia and the West, makes it challenging to build confidence for negotiations. A frozen conflict" scenario could be on the cards, where fighting ceases but the underlying issues remain unresolved. It would require Ukraine to dedicate significant resources to defense and rebuilding. Ukraine faces significant economic and demographic challenges, including a heavily indebted economy and a rapidly ageing population, which will impact its ability to recover from the war. Trumps desire to bring the Russia-Ukraine war to an end is also linked to his desire to win the Nobel Peace Prize. In his inaugural address on January 20 this year, Trump had said My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier. Thats what I want to be: a peacemaker and a unifier". He has repeatedly said that this was the reputation he wanted recorded in the history books. It is no secret that he covets the Nobel Peace Prize. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Jul 31: Its well past time that President Trump was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize." However, India declined to officially comment on the USs pitch for Donald Trump to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, suggesting that the question be directed to the White House. Trump has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times since 2018 but is yet to win it. Pakistan said in June that it would nominate him for the award for his role in helping to end its conflict with India. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last month he had nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. Cambodias prime minister also said that he has nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, lauding his extraordinary statesmanship" in halting a border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. Now, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Saturday also jointly threw their weight behind US president Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, following a landmark peace agreement between the two longtime rivals. Both these leaders credited Trumps mediation for ending decades of conflict and called on the Nobel committee to recognise his efforts. Aliyev asked, Who, if not President Trump, deserves a Nobel Peace Prize" while Pashinyan described Trump as the peacemaker" behind the breakthrough" and said that the US President deserved the Nobel." There are many who may dispute Trumps claim to the Nobel Peace prize, but the Nobel Peace Prize is no stranger to controversy. Criticisms that have been leveled against some of the awards include allegations that they were politically motivated, premature, or guided by a faulty definition of what constitutes work for peace. As the New York Times stated in an article on May 4, 2018, the Nobel Committee began choosing winners in 1901, and for almost as long, some of its choices have been assailed as politicised, parochial or just misguided." Donald Trump has an obsession with the Nobel Peace Prize for several reasons such as a craving for international prestige and a decade-long rivalry with former US president Barack Obama who won this prize in 2009. In fact, Obamas Nobel Peace Prize also faced a wave of criticism. He received the prize in the first year of his presidency, which some considered too early. Critics pointed out that Obamas presidency was still in its early stages and that he hadnt yet demonstrated the concrete achievements in peace and diplomacy that typically accompany a Nobel Peace Prize. Moreover, it raised questions about the selection due to the Obama administrations involvement in wars in Libya, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and Yemen. The 1994 prize went to Yasser Arafat, Shimon Peres and Yitzak Rabin for their efforts to create peace in the Middle East". Kare Kristiansen, a member of the Nobel Committee, resigned in protest at Arafats award, citing his sponsorship of terrorism through the PLO and calling him the worlds most prominent terrorist". The 2012 prize went to the European Union for having over six decades contributed to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe". Some former laureates disputed the award, claiming that the EU is clearly not a champion of peace"! If Trump won the prize, he would be the fifth US President to do so, after Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama. Interestingly, Trump had this to say: No, I wont get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do, including Russia/Ukraine, and Israel/Iran, whatever those outcomes may be, but the people know, and thats all that matters to me." The Washington Post had commented on July 15 this year that " The road to President Donald Trumps highly coveted Nobel Peace Prize might ultimately run through Ukraine". It had also said that Trumps approach to the Ukraine conflict has lacked a coherent strategy." In any case, the Russia-Ukraine wars complexity and the deeply entrenched positions of both sides, combined with the potential for shifts in the global political landscape, make ending the conflict a formidable challenge. Zelensky has already said that the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska will achieve nothing, that Ukraine will not cede any territory and that any peace deal excluding Kiev would lead to dead solutions." Thus, despite Trumps Summit meeting with Putin next week, ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict is going to be extremely difficult due to the significant disagreements on key issues and a lack of trust between the two sides. Neither side is willing to compromise on their core demands, making a peaceful resolution a highly complex challenge. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all However, good luck President Trump! The writer is a retired Indian diplomat and had previously served as Consul General in New York. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views. First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:07 IST News opinion Opinion | Trump-Putin Summit, The Nobel Peace Prize And Other Imponderables 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... NDA Gears Up To Maximise Votes For Vice-Presidential Election With Training Workshop In September Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:41 IST Sources indicate that the workshop will also feature a mock voting exercise to familiarise first-time and younger MPs with the Vice-Presidential election process With the BJP and its allies holding a comfortable majority in both Houses, numbers are not a concern for the ruling side. The BJP, known for its meticulous election preparedness, has now turned its focus to the upcoming Vice-Presidential election. This time, the partys mission extends beyond its own ranks, as it seeks to align and prepare its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners for the contest. As part of this strategy, the BJP has issued instructions to its MPs in both Houses of Parliament, with plans to extend a similar module to alliance partners. A BJP MPs training workshop will be held in Delhi from September 6-9, inaugurated by BJP national president JP Nadda. The sessions will feature guidance from senior Union ministers and experienced parliamentarians, focusing on MPs duties and responsibilities. Attendance for the entire duration is mandatory, with MPs advised to reach the Capital by the evening of September 6. Recommended Stories To ensure maximum presence ahead of the September 9 vote, NDA MPs chairing various parliamentary committees have been asked to schedule their meetings for September 8just a day before polling. Sources indicate that the workshop will also feature a mock voting exercise to familiarise first-time and younger MPs with the Vice-Presidential election process. Strategically, the NDA will also organise its MPs into smaller groups, assigning leaders from across alliance parties to coordinate within these groups to ensure maximum voter participation on polling day. Beyond its core allies, the government intends to reach out to fence-sitter parties that have previously adopted a flexible stance, neither aligning fully with the Opposition nor with the ruling side. Parties such as the BRS, YSR Congress Party, and BJD have, in the past, extended support to NDA-backed candidates based on the individual nominees profile rather than political alignment. For instance, the YSRCP and BJD backed Droupadi Murmus Presidential bid in 2022, citing her identity as a woman from a tribal community. So far, neither the NDA nor the Opposition has named a candidate. In the coming days, senior government floor managersincluding Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha JP Nadda, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijijuare expected to reach out to opposition leaders in an effort to build consensus. However, given the Oppositions united stance against the NDA, agreement on a common name appears unlikely unless prior consultation takes placesomething the government has rarely done in the past. Opposition parties are also expected to field their own candidate. In the lead-up to the Vice-Presidential election, the NDA is set to hold a high-powered strategy meeting on August 20 in the national capital. The gathering is expected to see the alliances full strength on display, with top leaders, including chief ministers from NDA-ruled states, in attendance. Indications suggest that the NDA will file its candidates nomination on August 21, the last day for nominations. As part of its show of unity, the alliance plans to have multiple senior leaders act as proposers and seconders for its Vice-Presidential candidate. This coordinated effort is aimed at projecting a strong and united ruling bloc. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The vacancy arose following the sudden resignation of Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar at the start of the Monsoon Session, citing health reasons. The Vice-President, who also serves as Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, is elected by members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. The winner of the September 9 election will serve a full five-year term. With the BJP and its allies holding a comfortable majority in both Houses, numbers are not a concern for the ruling side. The focus now is on maximising preparedness and ensuring every vote is cast in their favour. First Published: August 14, 2025, 16:41 IST News politics NDA Gears Up To Maximise Votes For Vice-Presidential Election With Training Workshop In September 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... 'Reflects Political Deadlock': Mehbooba Mufti, Others React To SC's Stance On J&K's Statehood Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 12:44 IST SC asked the central government to respond to J&K's statehood petition after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. Mehbooba Mufti criticized the delay as political deadlock. SC Heard Plea for Restoring Jammu & Kashmir Statehood (Credits: PTI Photo) Leaders are reacting sharply after Supreme Court sought the central governments response Jammu and Kashmirs statehood petition. A Bench of Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran heard the plea and remarked that the situation in J&K cannot be overlooked and cited the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. You cannot ignore what happened in Pahalgam It is for Parliament and the Executive to take a decision," the CJI said when senior lawyer Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for Bhat, sought an early hearing. Recommended Stories The apex court adjourned the matter for eight weeks and asked the government to submit response meanwhile. This comes after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, opposed the plea and asked for eight weeks. Mehbooba Mufti Reacts To SCs Response PDP president Mehbooba Mufti reacted to SCs response and said this reflects a deeper political and psychological deadlock." SCs reference to recent Pahalgam terror attack in the context of granting statehood to Jammu and Kashmir underscores a deeper issue about GOIs continued lack of confidence in the regions stability. Even after revoking J&Ks special status & reducing it to a Union Territory, the Centre appears unwilling to ease its tight control. This reflects a deeper political and psychological deadlock," she said. SCs reference to recent Pahalgam terror attack in the context of granting statehood to Jammu and Kashmir underscores a deeper issue about GOIs continued lack of confidence in the regions stability. Even after revoking J&Ks special status & reducing it to a Union Territory, the Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) August 14, 2025 PDP leader Iltija Mufti reacted to the statement and said, By invoking Pahalgam terror attack Supreme Court has given an alibi to GOI to delay restoration of J&Ks statehood. Seems like they dont want to lose the iron grip anytime soon." By invoking Pahalgam terror attack Supreme Court has given an alibi to GOI to delay restoration of J&Ks statehood. Seems like they dont want to lose the iron grip anytime soon. https://t.co/DQFLl77Llf Iltija Mufti (@IltijaMufti_) August 14, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On December 11, 2023, the Supreme Court unanimously upheld the revocation of Article 370, which accorded a special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, even as it ordered that assembly elections be held in the union territory by September 2024 and its statehood be restored at the earliest". Last year, a plea was filed in the top court seeking directions to the Centre for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir within two months. First Published: August 14, 2025, 12:44 IST News politics 'Reflects Political Deadlock': Mehbooba Mufti, Others React To SC's Stance On J&K's Statehood Row Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tamil Nadu CM Stalin To Skip Independence Day Tea Party Hosted By Governor RN Ravi Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 18:34 IST Stalin's decision to skip the tea party is a mark of protest against Ravi, who, the state government alleged, has been "acting against the interests of the people of Tamil Nadu" Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin with Governor RN Ravi (PTI File Photo) The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday announced that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin will not attend the Independence Day At Home Reception" hosted by Governor R.N. Ravi on August 15. According to an official statement, the Chief Ministers decision to skip the tea party is a mark of protest against the Governor, who, the state government alleged, has been acting against the interests of the people of Tamil Nadu." Recommended Stories The state government further added that Higher Education Minister K. Ponmudy (Govi Chezhian) will also boycott the convocation ceremonies of two state universities scheduled for August 18 and 19, in protest against Governor Ravis conduct. The announcement comes a day after the Tamil Nadu Congress and Manithaneya Makkal Katchi (MMK) declared that their legislators will also boycott the Independence Day reception hosted by the Governor. State Congress president K. Selvaperunthagai, in a statement, said that all Congress MLAs will skip the event to protest what he described as the Governors continuous efforts to act against the people and the rights of Tamil Nadu. He specifically criticised the Governor for allegedly delaying the forwarding of a Bill to the President that would establish a university in Kumbakonam, named after Muthamizh Arignar Kalaignar. MMK president M.H. Jawahirullah echoed similar concerns. In a statement, he said the party would boycott the tea reception as the Governor had consistently acted in ways that undermine the authority of the state government" and disrupt the democratic functioning" of an elected government. Both the Congress and MMK are allies of the ruling DMK-led coalition in Tamil Nadu. The Congress has 17 MLAs in the state assembly, while MMK has two. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The Independence Day tea party, traditionally held at the Raj Bhavan on the evening of August 15, is attended by state ministers, legislators, senior bureaucrats, and members of the judiciary. (With inputs from agencies) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 18:32 IST News politics Tamil Nadu CM Stalin To Skip Independence Day Tea Party Hosted By Governor RN Ravi 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... Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 With Sleek Design And MediaTek Chipset Launched: Price, Specs Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:37 IST Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 is the new device with a sleek design, and focus on offering a clean Android experience. Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 is the new budget 5G phone in India Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 is the new phone from the company in the market as it looks to compete with a host of brands in the budget segment. The new Lava 5G phone carries a sleek design and is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity chipset. It comes in two colour options and has a fast-charging battery under the hood. You also have an AMOLED display which can be hard to find in the lower mid-range bracket in the country. Lava is definitely building a strong core of products and the Blaze AMOLED 2 is the new addition to its list. Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 Price In India Recommended Stories Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 comes in a single 6GB + 128GB variant, priced at Rs 13,499 in the country. You can buy the phone from August 16 and the brand is offering doorstep after-sale service for the new device. Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 Specifications The Blaze AMOLED 2 gets a 6.67-inch AMOLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate screen that offers FHD+ resolution. The phone is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 7060 chipset with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. Lava is offering Android 15 version out of the box but it will only get one OS upgrade along with 2 years of security updates. However, the brand focuses on delivering a bloatware-free UI experience which is only available with the CMF Phone models from Nothing in this segment. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The phone comes with 7.55mm thickness and weighs around 174 grams which makes it one of the lightest in the price range. The device gets dual stereo speakers and even a cooling chamber which shows how the brand views the new model and its ability. It even has an in-display fingerprint sensor for security. The Blaze AMOLED 2 features a single 50MP rear camera along with LED flash while the front gets an 8MP shooter. The phone packs a modest 5,000mAh battery but does support 33W fast charging. About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More Get latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:37 IST News tech Lava Blaze AMOLED 2 With Sleek Design And MediaTek Chipset Launched: Price, Specs 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... Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, who is in China to attend the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai) KUNMING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Thursday met with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, who is in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, to attend the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting. In April this year, Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a historic state visit to Cambodia, during which the leaders of the two countries jointly led the upgrading of China-Cambodia relations and drew up a blueprint for building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era, Wang said. He noted that China supports Cambodia in maintaining political stability, promoting economic development and improving people's livelihood, and is ready to strengthen cooperation with Cambodia to bring more benefits to the Cambodian people and contribute to regional development and prosperity. Facing an international landscape fraught with changes and turbulence, the world needs peace and tranquility, he said, adding that it is of great significance for the Lancang-Mekong countries to hold foreign ministers' meeting in Anning -- meaning peace and tranquility in Chinese -- to discuss development plans, call for peace, and build consensus on peace. China appreciates Cambodia's campaign to crack down on online gambling and telecom fraud, and hopes that Cambodia will continue to take strong measures and work with regional countries to combat cross-border criminal activities, Wang said. Cambodia attaches great importance to its relations with China, thanks China for its selfless support and help, and looks forward to further enhancing the level of cooperation and achieving more fruitful results, Prak Sokhonn said. He said that Cambodia is fully committed to peace efforts and hopes that through this foreign ministers' meeting, the Lancang-Mekong cooperation will be accelerated and regional prosperity and stability will be promoted. Noting that both Cambodia and Thailand are good neighbors and friends of China, Wang urged the two sides to enhance engagement and restore mutual trust. China believes the parties concerned can properly resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation, Wang said, adding that China supports ASEAN in playing an active role in this regard to uphold ASEAN's solidarity. Prak Sokhonn informed Wang of the recent situation of Cambodia-Thailand relations and expressed gratitude to China for its active efforts in promoting peace talks and easing tensions. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, who is in China to attend the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) One UI 8 Beta Now Available For Older Galaxy S24 Models And Galaxy Z 6 Foldables Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 08:52 IST Samsung One UI 8 beta is now available for the older Galaxy premium models that were launched in 2024 Samsung One UI 8 beta now open for more devices. Samsung has started the One UI 8 roll out for the older Galaxy devices as we had expected. The new Android 16-based update made its debut with the Galaxy Z Fold 7 launch in July and now more devices are getting the One UI version that will be coming to other models later this year. Samsung lets them sign up for the One UI 8 public beta program to receive the Android 16-based version which will eventually come in the full release later this year. Samsungs One UI 7 issues are well known so it seems the brand is looking to redeem with its efforts for One UI 8 version, bringing it before Google on its new products. Recommended Stories One UI 8 Beta Update Now Coming To More Phones The company is bringing the new One UI beta version to a host of 2024 models: Galaxy S24 Galaxy S24 Plus Galaxy S24 Ultra Galaxy S24 FE Galaxy Z Fold 6 Galaxy Z Flip 6 One UI 8 Beta Update: How To Install Heres how you can install the new One UI 8 beta update Get the latest version of the Samsung Members app on the Galaxy S25 phone Sign in with your Samsung account Tap on the One UI 8 Beta Program" banner at the top of the home screen Hit on Register" and complete the following steps to install the beta software version The brand is giving emphasis to major UX and AI updates with the new version. Samsung says, One UI 8 will also recognize your context, offering personalized, proactive suggestions that support your unique daily routine." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all But to make sure that the AI data processing is secure, the company is going to have more flexibility with the One UI 8 update. The new One UI 8 Watch edition is also coming to a host of Galaxy Watch versions and their beta roll out has also started. The company has also confirmed that the 2025 Galaxy S25 series, which has four models, will be getting the One UI 8 official roll out in September. The brand has not given the exact date but we should expect the new Android 16 update to be available in the next few weeks. About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and helping fr... Read More Get latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements. Stay informed with breaking tech news , expert insights, and trends from India and around the world . Also Download the News18 App to stay updated. Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: August 14, 2025, 08:52 IST News tech One UI 8 Beta Now Available For Older Galaxy S24 Models And Galaxy Z 6 Foldables 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... A Country With No Stray Dogs? This Nation Even Has A Police Force To Protect Them! Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:10 IST The Netherlands leads the world in humane street dog care, with sterilisation, microchipping, a Dog Police Force, and 24-hour vet services; ensuring no stray dogs roam freely Stray dogs are housed in shelters where they receive medical care and are encouraged for adoption. (News18) In India, the Supreme Court has mandated the widespread capture of street dogs, sparking anger among animal lovers who consider the move unfair to these voiceless creatures. However, incidents of dog bites have surged noticeably over the past two to three years, prompting urgent action. The Netherlands: A Model For Humane Street Dog Management Recommended Stories Did you know that the Netherlands is a country where street dogs are treated with great care? Killing dogs is considered a serious offence, and there is even a dedicated Police Force that swiftly responds to complaints, ensuring their welfare. Systematic Approach To Dog Welfare The Netherlands employs a comprehensive strategy for managing street dogs, combining protection, healthcare, and legal safeguards. Strays are caught, sterilised, vaccinated, and returned to shelters where they are fed and cared for. This humane approach controls the dog population while maintaining their health, resulting in virtually no stray dogs. Tax Policy Encourages Adoption To discourage dog purchases and promote adoption, the Netherlands imposes a hefty tax on buying dogs. This encourages people to adopt from shelters, providing homes to strays. The Dog Police Force: Protectors Of Animals The Dog Police Force investigates crimes against animals and safeguards their well-being. Their specially trained officers take swift action in cases of cruelty, rescuing dogs and other animals from harm. Microchipping And Registration All dogs must be microchipped within seven weeks of birth and registered in a national database within eight weeks. This system helps quickly reunite lost or stolen dogs with their owners and ensures every dog is tracked. Round-The-Clock Veterinary Care The Netherlands stands out with its 24-hour veterinary clinics and emergency services dedicated to dogs. Stray dogs are housed in shelters where they receive medical care and are encouraged for adoption. A Compassionate And Effective Model The Dutch approach combines respect, science, and strong legal protection to manage dog populations, ensure animal safety and health, and nurture a society where stray dogs no longer exist. The Dog Police Force plays a crucial role in combating animal cruelty and safeguarding pets. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Contrasting Approaches Worldwide China: Some cities capture and euthanise aggressive or sick strays, though rescue organisations exist, and pet dogs must comply with licensing and vaccination rules. Some cities capture and euthanise aggressive or sick strays, though rescue organisations exist, and pet dogs must comply with licensing and vaccination rules. US and Europe: Street dogs are sheltered and prepared for adoption but may be euthanised if left homeless too long. Street dogs are sheltered and prepared for adoption but may be euthanised if left homeless too long. Turkey: The community often feeds street dogs, who are tagged to show vaccination and neutering. The community often feeds street dogs, who are tagged to show vaccination and neutering. Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand and Indonesia have many street dogs, some of whom face poisoning; however, many NGOs provide assistance. 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! Location : Netherlands First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:10 IST News viral A Country With No Stray Dogs? This Nation Even Has A Police Force To Protect Them! 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... Birthday Trip To Spain Turns Tragic As Man Dies After Eating Undercooked Chicken At Luxury Hotel Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:34 IST The man was diagnosed with a salmonella infection, which led to severe complications, including sepsis (blood poisoning) and kidney failure Leslie Greens wife also contracted a salmonella infection and spent a week in hospital. (News18 Hindi) Every day, people around the world enjoy chicken in various forms, from home-cooked meals to restaurant delicacies. But have you ever heard of someone losing their life after eating it? Tragically, thats exactly what happened to a man celebrating his 70th birthday abroad. What was meant to be a joyful family holiday at a luxury resort ended in heartbreak when he ate undercooked chicken. A dream holiday for a British couple in the Canary Islands of Spain turned into a devastating tragedy when Leslie Green, 70, died from food poisoning after eating improperly cooked chicken. An inquest confirmed that Mr Green, from Little Lever, Bolton, Greater Manchester, was on a 2,300 family trip to celebrate his milestone birthday at the four-star Occidental Jandia Playa resort in Fuerteventura, Spain. In the second week of the holiday, he fell seriously ill. Recommended Stories He was admitted to hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with a salmonella infection. This led to severe complications, including sepsis (blood poisoning) and kidney failure. After nearly four weeks of treatment, Mr Green died from multiple organ failure on November 4, 2024. Wife Also Fell Ill His wife, Julie Green, who was marking her 60th birthday during the same trip, also contracted salmonella and spent a week in hospital. She told the inquest that she had eaten only from the hotel buffet. On one occasion, she found the carbonara sauce lukewarm; on another, her chicken was undercooked. She also alleged that hotel staff were seen failing to wash their hands and sometimes mixing freshly prepared food with pre-cooked dishes. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all When Mr Greens health worsened, a resort doctor examined him on October 12 and arranged for him to be taken to a local clinic by ambulance. The following day, his condition deteriorated further, and he was admitted to hospital. He developed complications including kidney failure, pneumonia, and sepsis. Placed on a ventilator, he was later taken off life support when doctors said no further treatment was possible. He died hours later. Speaking after the inquest, Mrs Green said the past few months had been impossible to put into words. Leslie was my best friend and the pillar of our family," she said. I am speaking out in his memory to get justice and to stop other families from suffering like ours." 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! Location : Spain First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:34 IST News viral Birthday Trip To Spain Turns Tragic As Man Dies After Eating Undercooked Chicken At Luxury Hotel Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... China Pet Owners Duped By Fake Psychics Promising To Talk To Dead Animals Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 20:40 IST In China, scammers posing as psychics claim to communicate with deceased pets, charging high fees for fake services. Victims reported the fraud to police, causing online outrage. This Friendship Day, go beyond the basics and make it memorable for your four-legged buddy with thoughtful gifts and little acts of care In China, a growing number of pet owners are being scammed by individuals claiming to be psychics who offer to communicate with dead animals, according to The South China Morning Post. These scammers prey on grieving pet owners, demanding hefty fees for services that provide generic or fabricated details. The practice has stirred online outrage, with some victims turning to the police. The psychics charge prices of 128 yuan (US$18) to allow owners to ask their pet five questions and 2,999 yuan (US$420) for an unlimited number of questions within six months, SCMP reported, quoting a news report by Jimu News. Finding out whether their pet has been reincarnated costs between 899 and 1,899 yuan (US$125260), depending on the specific circumstances. Recommended Stories According to several pet owners, they were duped-blocked on social media or removed from chat groups after paying. One victim, identified as Anran, lost her Beagle, Qiqi, in October 2024 due to kidney disease. After receiving a message from a woman named Ling, she joined a chat group of more than 400 grieving pet owners. Anran first bought a 128-yuan communication service," only to notice that the psychics responses echoed details from her own social media posts. She later spent 899 yuan on a reincarnation package" and was instructed to pray daily until her dog appeared in a dream to disclose its rebirth location. When no dream came, Ling accused her of lacking sincerity and being emotionally unstable, then blocked her completely. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Another netizen claimed that at least 20 victims collectively lost 10,000 yuan (US$1,400) in a similar pet reincarnation scam, with some reporting the matter to the police. Online reactions have been sharp, with one commenter remarking, Do not let scammers take advantage of your sorrow." 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! Location : China First Published: August 14, 2025, 20:40 IST News viral China Pet Owners Duped By Fake Psychics Promising To Talk To Dead Animals 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... This Rare, Pink-Coloured Creature Found In Atlantic Ocean Reminds Scientists Of A Disney Character Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 14:04 IST While exploring the Mar del Plata submarine canyon off Argentinas coast, a remote camera captured a rare pink creature gliding through the dark waters, stunning scientists The mysterious creature was identified as a Grimpoteuthis, more commonly known as the Dumbo octopus. (News18 Hindi) Beneath the waves lies a world as mysterious as any distant planet: the vast, uncharted depths of our oceans. Much of this underwater realm remains beyond human reach, holding secrets that continue to intrigue scientists. In a recent deep-sea expedition, researchers sent a remote-controlled camera nearly 4 kilometres into the South Atlantic Ocean. What they captured left the scientific community and the world astonished. Recommended Stories While exploring a massive underwater canyon, the camera recorded a strange, pink-coloured creature gliding gracefully through the dark waters. It had ear-shaped fins that flapped gently as it swam, immediately reminding scientists of Disneys beloved character Dumbo. This remarkable sighting took place in the Mar del Plata submarine canyon, located about 193 miles off Argentinas east coast. The mysterious creature was identified as a Grimpoteuthis, more commonly known as the Dumbo octopus. There are 17 known species of this deep-sea animal, each recognised for the distinctive fins positioned above their eyes. Dumbo octopuses are the deepest-living of all octopus species, thriving under crushing water pressure and in freezing temperatures. They move by flapping their soft, jelly-like bodies and ear-shaped fins, giving them an almost alien appearance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by G20 Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (@cordap_) According to scientists, this is the first recorded sighting of a Dumbo octopus in Argentine waters. John Ablett, Senior Curator at Londons Natural History Museum, explained that these octopuses are unlike any other. They are incredibly soft and jelly-like, which makes them look otherworldly," he said. Typically, they grow between 20 and 30 centimetres in length, but the largest on record reached an astonishing 1.8 metres and weighed 5.9 kilograms. The same expedition also documented another fascinating find: a so-called devil starfish, bearing a striking resemblance to Patrick Star from the cartoon SpongeBob SquarePants. View this post on Instagram A post shared by G20 Coral Research & Development Accelerator Platform (@cordap_) top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Such discoveries highlight just how much remains hidden in the deep oceans, waiting to be explored. Notably, a Dumbo octopus was also spotted in 2020 at an incredible depth of 7,000 metres in the Indian Ocean. These rare glimpses into deep-sea life highlight that Earths oceans hold countless mysteries, with each exploration having the potential to reveal something extraordinary. 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! Location : Argentina First Published: August 14, 2025, 14:04 IST News viral This Rare, Pink-Coloured Creature Found In Atlantic Ocean Reminds Scientists Of A Disney Character 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... UK Woman Discovers Shes 9 Months Pregnant While On Holiday, Gives Birth In Toilet Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 23:52 IST Helen Green, a UK resident, felt the urge to push out something while she was urinating and found she delivered a baby while on a holiday in Canada. In this AI-generated image, a couple in their 40s share a tender moment as they hold their newborn baby inside a cozy hotel room, capturing the surprise and joy of an unexpected birth during a holiday. (IMAGE: IMAGEN 4) UK resident Helen Green found out she was pregnant after she ended up having a baby when she went to the toilet while on a vacation in Canada. She and her husband, Michael Green, both aged 45, arrived in Toronto in May for a 10-day road trip with their six-year-old daughter. According to the Daily Mail, Helen was unaware that she was nine months pregnant. Recommended Stories Helen Green, from Bristol, had no idea she was pregnant until the middle of the night during a family holiday in Canada. Waking up with tummy pains, she went to the bathroom and suddenly felt an urge to push." Looking down, she realised a baby had arrived. The family had just arrived at their Holiday Inn in Toronto on May 21 and were tucked in by 11 pm. Helen woke at 1.45 am with stomach pains and went to the bathroom. I had no idea what was happening, my body just took over. After two massive pushes there was a baby so I picked her up out of the loo and held her in my arms," she recalled while speaking to the UK-based newspaper. Michael woke to the sound of Olivia, born weighing 8 lbs 3 oz, crying. Initially thinking it was coming from the next room, he was shocked to find his wife in the bathroom holding their newborn. He called 911, and an ambulance and fire crew arrived within 10 minutes. Both Helen and Olivia were taken to Mount Sinai Hospital for checks and are now reported to be doing well. Helen had experienced a cryptic pregnancy. Cryptic pregnancy is a rare condition where someone doesnt realise they are expecting until late in pregnancy or even during labour. She had even been having regular periods. The family is now overjoyed with their little surprise, who they have named Olivia, 11 weeks old. This was such a huge huge shock, and also such a lovely surprise," Helen was quoted as saying by the Daily Mail. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Her husband Michael, also 45, described the experience as surreal. Its so crazy and still feels surreal. Its been such a bonkers time. Shes such a joy!" Helen, who also has an 18-year-old son Harry, had no symptoms during her pregnancy. After a series of miscarriages following the birth of their daughter Darcy, six, she thought she was perimenopausal. I had massive bumps with my first two pregnancies and continued to go to the gym four times a week whilst unaware I was expecting," she further added. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More 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! Location : London, United Kingdom (UK) First Published: August 14, 2025, 23:43 IST News viral UK Woman Discovers Shes 9 Months Pregnant While On Holiday, Gives Birth In Toilet Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Happens After You Die? Woman With Near-Death Experience Says 'It's Nothing Like...' Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 16:40 IST Nicola Hodges, 32, from Folkestone, Kent, awoke from a coma without near-death visions. Despite health setbacks, she pursued writing The woman recalled that she used to be witty and sharp, but suddenly she couldnt even remember what day it was. (AI-generated image) People who return from the brink of death often speak of white tunnels, heavenly gates, or reunions with loved ones. But what one British woman experienced has left even doctors and believers puzzled. Nicola Hodges, 32, from Folkestone, Kent, had battled epilepsy for years. She managed her condition with medication, but a sudden change in her prescription triggered a life-threatening reaction. Her blood turned dangerously acidic, forcing doctors to rush her to hospital. Her family was told she might not live through the night. Recommended Stories To save her, doctors placed Nicola on round-the-clock dialysis. But she slipped into a coma, her survival chances just 20 percent. When she finally awoke, she carried no tales of angelic visions or pearly gates. It wasnt like the stories you hear," she said, adding, There was no door to heaven. I couldnt see anything just a faint warmth and a yellow light." The ordeal left her mind clouded and her memory fractured. Six months later, a seizure caused her to collapse and hit her head, leading to four brain haemorrhages. It felt like my head was wrapped in cotton," she recalled, adding that she used to be witty and sharp, but suddenly she couldnt even remember what day it was. Her self-confidence eroded. At family gatherings, she avoided the adults table, fearing she would appear foolish. Then another blow came; a fall down the stairs that left her deaf in one ear. Instead of surrendering to despair, Nicola made a list of goals to achieve before turning 40. At the top was an audacious dream: overcome her brain injury and write a book. With an old laptop and a red notebook, she began to piece together her story. I told myself I couldnt do it," she said, but I decided to try." Completing the first draft felt like meeting myself again". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all When she handed it to her father, Nick, his feedback was brief but transformative, Enjoyed it very much. It should be published." Eight months of rejection followed before an independent firm, Morning Mist, signed her not for one, but five books. Now 37, Nicola is preparing to launch her second book this September. She also runs a virtual writing hub, Crazys Creative Corner, on TikTok, helping writers with disabilities or mental health struggles find their voice. 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! Location : United Kingdom (UK) First Published: August 14, 2025, 16:40 IST News viral What Happens After You Die? Woman With Near-Death Experience Says 'It's Nothing Like...' 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... 3 Killed, Over 60 Injured In Aerial Firing During Pakistan's Independence Day Celebrations Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 07:17 IST Three people were killed during Independence Day celebrations in Pakistans Karachi due to "reckless" aerial firing. 3 Killed, Over 60 Injured in Reckless Aerial Firing in Pakistan. Three people, including a senior citizen and an 8-year-old girl, were killed during Independence Day celebrations in Pakistans Karachi due to reckless" aerial firing. Over 60 people are reportedly injured during the incident. The incidents occurred across the city, with the young girl hit by a stray bullet in Azizabad and a man named Stephen killed in Korangi. At least 64 others suffered gunshot wounds in the citywide incidents, Geo News reported. Recommended Stories Rescue officials said dozens were injured due to celebratory gunfire. Authorities condemned the practice as reckless and dangerous, urging citizens to mark Independence Day in safer ways. Meanwhile, an investigation have been launched and officials have assured that strict action will be taken against those found involved in aerial firing. According to a report obtained by ARY News, at least 42 people, including five women, lost their lives in firing incidents across Karachi in January. Additionally, 233 people, including five women, were injured in these incidents. Five people were killed while thwarting robbery attempts in the firing events, which were reported in different regions of the city. In other instances, individuals lost their lives as a result of stray gunshots or aerial fire. However, none of the seven people who died in firing incidentsincluding a womanhave been named. Police officers attributed the episodes to several factors, including disagreements, personal animosities, and resistance to robbery attempts, ARY News reported. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Road accidents, robbery resistance, and aerial firing also contributed to a spike in deaths in Karachi earlier in January. According to the Chipa Foundation, 528 people, including children and the elderly, were injured in road accidents, and 36 people died as a result. In addition, robbery resistance incidents resulted in three fatalities and fifteen injuries. (With agency inputs) About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More Location : Karachi, Pakistan First Published: August 14, 2025, 07:06 IST News world 3 Killed, Over 60 Injured In Aerial Firing During Pakistan's Independence Day Celebrations 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... Cash On 'Delivery': This Country Is Paying Couples To Have Children; The Amount Will Blow Your Mind Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 18:32 IST The proposal, expected to secure cabinet approval soon, will extend the subsidy across multiple stages of IVF treatment, from the first attempt through the sixth The subsidy covers multiple stages of IVF treatment. (Representative Image/News18) In a bold move to counter its declining birth rate, Taiwan has announced a significant expansion of its financial support for couples seeking to have children through in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). The government will now offer up to Rs 6 lakh in assistance, more than double the current Rs 3 lakh, in an effort to make the costly procedure more accessible. The proposal, expected to secure cabinet approval soon, will extend the subsidy across multiple stages of IVF treatment, from the first attempt through the sixth. Until now, only the initial stage received such support. Officials said that the change addresses a key deterrent; IVF often requires several rounds to succeed, and many couples abandon the process due to escalating costs. Recommended Stories The scheme is aimed squarely at reversing Taiwans steep population decline. Like Japan and South Korea, the island nation has seen younger generations increasingly delay or avoid marriage and parenthood, raising fears of a future shortage in working-age citizens. Governments across the region are experimenting with incentives to boost birth rates. China, grappling with the long-term effects of its one-child policy, has introduced a national child-care subsidy starting January 2025 3,600 yuan (around Rs 43,000) annually for every child under three, with additional state-level benefits. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Russia, facing a similar demographic crunch, offers Rs 6.65 lakh for a first child and Rs 8.70 lakh for a second. Some regions have gone further, extending payments even to schoolgirls who become pregnant. For Taiwan, officials hope that easing the financial burden of IVF will help reverse a trend that, if left unchecked, could reshape the nations economy and workforce in the decades ahead. First Published: August 14, 2025, 18:32 IST News world Cash On 'Delivery': This Country Is Paying Couples To Have Children; The Amount Will Blow Your Mind 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... 'Disproportionately Concentrated': Pakistan's Post-War Credit, Awards 'Monopolised' By Asim Munir | Exclusive Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 21:37 IST This is in sharp contrast to India's treatment of its military in the aftermath of 'Operation Sindoor'. The Centre's gallantry awards only recognise combatants from operations Pakistani COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir has been taking medals instead of giving them away. (Image: News18) Pakistans military awards, following its standoff with India, have been monopolised by Field Marshal Asim Munir. This post-war credit has been disproportionately concentrated" on the Chief of Army Staff, said top intelligence sources. This is in sharp contrast to Indias treatment of its military in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. The central governments gallantry awards only recognise combatants from operations. Recommended Stories Pakistani awards, meanwhile, highlight top-brass self-projection and political weakness. India has not given away ceremonial awards to the three service chiefs. India is honouring nine air force officers with the Vir Chakra for precision strikes on Pakistans Muridke and Bahawalpur during the conflict. At least 26 armed forces personnel have received the Vayu Sena Medal (gallantry), including S-400 and air defence operators who shielded Indian skies. Senior IAF officers in leadership positions have received Yudh Seva Medals for operational planning, and yet the awards have been restricted to those directly involved. Sixteen BSF jawans have been awarded for counter-drone, anti-infiltration, and enemy surveillance disruption along the western front. The awards have been spread across the armed forces, police, fire service and civil defence, with heavy representation from Jammu and Kashmir and Naxal-affected zones. Munir, meanwhile, has been taking medals instead of giving them away. First, he was promoted to Field Marshal in May after the conflict, despite the fact that he does not have a frontline combat role. On August 13, Azerbaijan awarded him the Patriotic War Medal for bilateral defence cooperation, unrelated to Indo-Pakistan war performance. According to top intelligence sources, Pakistani authorities have sidelined field commanders and frontline troops creating silent discontent within the ranks. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The sources told CNN-News18 that the decoration medals for Munir are seen internally as an attempt to craft a war hero" narrative to mask operational setbacks during the conflict. By rewarding himself and restricting honours to select loyalists, he has ensured that real battlefield failures and underperformance do not come into the public domain, they said. The absence of recognition for actual combat units is causing frustration among middle-level officials, signalling a weakening command structure, the sources said. Munirs awards are less about military merit and more about consolidating personal authority within the military establishment, they said. Munir is securing influence over civilian leadership, they added. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 First Published: August 14, 2025, 21:37 IST News world 'Disproportionately Concentrated': Pakistan's Post-War Credit, Awards 'Monopolised' By Asim Munir | Exclusive 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... Flocks of egrets have been spotted gathering every evening on a small island in Poyang Lake, China's largest freshwater body. From above, the birds resemble a vast sea of stars. #AmazingChina #PoyangLake #China #Jiangxi #birds #egrets #ecology Gaza Cartoon Programme With Mickey Mouse Lookalike Taught Children To 'Kill Israelis': Report Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:01 IST Tomorrow's Pioneers was aired on Hamas-owned Al-Aqsa TV every Friday from April 2007 to October 2009, which encouraged anti-Jewish violence and martyrdom. Tomorrow's Pioneers was a show on Hamas-controlled TV that glorified violence against Jews. (Photo: X/@MossadIL) Children in Gaza reportedly grew up watching a cartoon programme, featuring a Mickey Mouse lookalike, which encourages kids to kill" Israelis, hate Jews and embrace martyrdom. The show called Tomorrows Pioneers was aired on Hamas-owned Al-Aqsa TV every Friday from April 2007 to October 2009. It includes Farfour, a costumed Mickey Mouse lookalike, and celebrates anti-Jewish violence and martyrdom, according to a report by the New York Post. Recommended Stories Farfour promises the children of Gaza that they will oversee Islamic world domination and liberate Jerusalem from the murderers", while mimicking grenade-throwing and shooting an AK-47. Farfour was later shown beaten to death by Israeli soldiers and replaced with other characters. Farfour was replaced by a bumblebee with a squeaky voice named Nahoul, who preaches, We will liberate Al-Aqsa from the filth of the criminal Jews" and swears revenge upon the enemies of God". He is later shown getting sick and being denied a travel permit to seek treatment in Egypt before dying. He is replaced by his rabbit brother, Assoud, who says, I, Assoud, will finish off the Jews and eat them." Assoud later dies in an Israeli strike and is replaced by a bear. Moreover, in one episode, children were invited into the studio to tell the hosts of their wish to die as martyrs, and then sing a song about it. Its a constant stream of horrific propaganda that is almost impossible for a child to break out of. And so the kids grow up thinking that every Israeli should be killed because every Israeli is bad and evil," said Mia Bloom, professor of communication and Middle East studies at Georgia State University. Directing Trauma In Children Bloom said Hamas knew the children were already traumatised by the decades-long Palestinian conflict and sought to traumatise them further with Tomorrows Pioneers to control the narrative" and direct the trauma" against Israel. This kind of layered trauma that youre deliberately exposing young Palestinian children to was not just a form of child abuse, but a long-term manipulation," she told the New York Post. It relates to October 7th. To have those resources and instead of making things better, youve just made things so much worse." The shows co-host, Gaza child star Saraa Barhoum, was around 10 years old when the show first aired, and the daughter of a university professor mother and a Hamas spokesman father. She revealed in a 2007 interview that she wanted to be either a doctor or a martyr when she grew up. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Barhoum also launched a singing career, recording pop songs with lyrics like, raise your sail for the sailors, and let your lighthouse illuminate the sea of blood." The NYP report implied that the show demonising Jews played a role in the October 7, 2023, attacks, as many of the Hamas fighters who attacked Israel were aged between 16 and 35 years. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Jerusalem, Israel First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:01 IST News world Gaza Cartoon Programme With Mickey Mouse Lookalike Taught Children To 'Kill Israelis': Report 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... In Tit-For-Tat Move, China Sanctions Two European Union Banks Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 10:08 IST The move came as a direct response to the EUs earlier decision to sanction two Chinese regional banks Heihe Rural Commercial Bank and Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank. As diplomatic tensions simmer, EU officials indicated they are reviewing Chinas reaction and remain open to negotiations. (AP Photo) In a sharp counter to European financial pressure, Beijing has imposed sanctions on two small Lithuanian lenders UAB Urbo Bankas and AB Mano Bankas barring them from conducting any transactions or cooperating with individuals and organisations in China. The measures, announced on August 13, 2025, were declared effective immediately by Chinas Ministry of Commerce. The move came as a direct response to the EUs earlier decision, effective August 9, to sanction two Chinese regional banks Heihe Rural Commercial Bank and Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank under its July sanctions package over concerns that these institutions facilitated Russia-related financial activity. Recommended Stories China, vehemently rejecting the EUs allegations as groundless," criticised the sanctions for undermining longstanding economic and trade cooperation with Europe. Beijing urged the European Union to reconsider its actions to protect bilateral ties in trade, economy, and finance. As diplomatic tensions simmer, EU officials indicated they are reviewing Chinas reaction and remain open to negotiations that might lead to reversing the sanctions, if a mutually acceptable solution is reached. Escalating Financial Retaliation Amid EU-China Tensions top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all At the heart of this standoff lies a tit-for-tat escalation in the realm of financial sanctions. The EU, aiming to tighten its grip on Russia by targeting enablers of its war efforts, included two Chinese banks in its sanctions list on August 9. Viewing this move as a direct affront, China promptly retaliated by hitting two Lithuanian institutions symbolic actors but strategically relevant as a signal that retaliatory measures would follow any aggression. This move reflects broader strains in EU-China relations, stoked by disagreements over trade imbalances, alleged Chinese support for Russia, and competing economic interests. With high-level meetings such as recent summits having failed to clarify common ground, the tit-for-tat banking sanctions underscore a deeper erosion of trust and growing readiness on both sides to leverage financial tools for geopolitical signaling. 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 14, 2025, 10:08 IST News world In Tit-For-Tat Move, China Sanctions Two European Union Banks 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... Melania Trump Threatens Hunter Biden With $1 Billion Lawsuit Over 'Defamatory' Epstein Allegations Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 09:40 IST Trump's team has consistently maintained the charges are part of a broader smear campaign against Melania, fuelled by her association with high-profile figures like her husband Melania Trump (left) has called out the false claims made by Hunter Biden (right). First Lady of the United States Melania Trump has issued a bold legal challenge to Hunter Biden, the son of former President Joe Biden, demanding he retract defamatory comments linking her to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Through her attorneys, Melania has put Hunter on notice, threatening him with a $1 billion defamation lawsuit if he fails to publicly apologise and retract the statements within a set timeframe. The controversy erupted when Hunter was questioned about the infamous Epstein case, which has long cast a shadow over many high-profile figures. In his comments, he allegedly connected Melania to Epsteins network, sparking widespread media attention. Trumps legal team quickly moved to counter these claims, branding them as entirely false and harmful to Melanias reputation. Recommended Stories In a letter sent by her lawyers, they demanded that Hunter retract his statements, adding: Your recent comments, suggesting a connection between Mrs. Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, are categorically false, defamatory, and designed to cause irreparable harm to her reputation." The letter goes on to say: By making these false and unfounded statements, you have not only caused harm to Mrs. Trumps personal and professional reputation but have also attempted to exploit the highly charged public interest surrounding the Epstein case for personal gain." The letter outlined that failure to comply would lead to a lawsuit seeking significant financial damages, up to $1 billion. Failure to retract the defamatory statements and offer a public apology will leave Mrs. Trump no choice but to pursue all available legal remedies, including a defamation lawsuit that will seek compensation for the harm caused." Trumps team has consistently maintained that the allegations are part of a broader smear campaign against Melania, fuelled by her association with high-profile figures like her husband. The letter further stated: Mrs. Trump has been an object of public scrutiny for years. However, the continued propagation of falsehoods and defamatory remarks goes beyond criticismit seeks to maliciously damage her character, and we will not stand for it." The legal dispute is the latest in a series of public feuds involving the Biden and Trump families. The Trump-Biden rivalry has been amplified by the constant media scrutiny of both political dynasties, particularly surrounding Hunter Bidens business dealings and Melania Trumps role during her husbands presidency. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Trumps team has emphasised that the allegations are without merit and part of a broader attempt to tarnish her character. The First Lady herself has not yet spoken publicly on the matter, but her legal team insists the claims are part of a malicious effort to create false narratives about her associations. Hunter Biden has yet to issue a retraction or public apology, and his legal representatives have not provided any formal response to the notice so far. 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 Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 09:40 IST News world Melania Trump Threatens Hunter Biden With $1 Billion Lawsuit Over 'Defamatory' Epstein Allegations Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... New Mexico Governor Declares State Of Emergency In Espanola Over Rising Crimes Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 06:54 IST The emergency declaration unlocks up to $750,000 in emergency funds from the Department of Homeland Security. Governor Grisham said the action comes in response to urgent appeals for help (Image: AP) New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency for Rio Arriba County, the City of Espanola, and the surrounding Pueblo communities, citing a dramatic rise in violent crime, drug trafficking, and threats to public safety, reported AP. Announced on Wednesday, the emergency declaration unlocks up to $750,000 in emergency funds from the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The order also authorises potential support from the National Guard, although there is no immediate deployment planned. Recommended Stories In a statement, Governor Grisham said the action comes in response to urgent appeals for help from local authorities. When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action," said the Governor. 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." When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action. 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 pic.twitter.com/JJfrQxkJJD Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (@GovMLG) August 13, 2025 The executive order attributes the surge in crime to homelessness, family instability, and a rise in fatal drug overdoses. These challenges, it says, have significantly strained local law enforcement and public resources. In Espanola, police calls have reportedly doubled in the last two years, with callouts to local businesses quadrupling. Police Chief Mizel Garcia told Source NM that the citys police force lacks the personnel to cope with the influx of youth-related crimes and firearm incidents. The affected region includes the Pueblos of Ohkay Owingeh to the north and Santa Clara to the south, both of which, according to the executive order, are also experiencing a significant increase in crime". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This is not the first time Governor Grisham has taken such a measure. In April, she issued a similar order for Albuquerque, New Mexicos largest city. That move drew criticism from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of New Mexico, particularly regarding the militarisation of public safety. Despite the backlash, the National Guard remains stationed in Albuquerque, with the deployment recently reauthorised. Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 06:54 IST News world New Mexico Governor Declares State Of Emergency In Espanola Over Rising Crimes 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... Pakistan Army Uses Lathi Charge, Tear Gas On Protesters Seeking 'Azadi' In PoK's Rawalakot Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:31 IST Top Indian intelligence sources said the protests stemmed from years of systemic neglect, rampant unemployment, and the chronic absence of basic amenities in the region Demonstrators, including children and the elderly, waved flags and raised slogans demanding Azaadi (freedom) from the Pakistan Army and Islamabads administration. (Screenshot) Tensions escalated in Rawalakot, a major town in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, as thousands of civilians took to the streets demanding freedom from Pakistan, marking one of the largest anti-Pakistan protests in the region in recent years. Demonstrators, including children and the elderly, waved flags and raised slogans demanding Azaadi (freedom) from the Pakistan Army and Islamabads administration, triggering a brutal crackdown by security forces. Recommended Stories Top Indian intelligence sources, speaking to CNN-News18, said the protests stemmed from years of systemic neglect, rampant unemployment, and the chronic absence of basic amenities in the region. The situation turned violent when Pakistan Army personnel launched a lathi-charge and fired tear gas on the peaceful protestors, injuring several civilians, including elderly individuals and women. Multiple protest leaders were detained in a bid to quell the uprising before it could spread to other parts of PoK. However, the arrest of key organisers only served to intensify public anger, with many locals vowing to continue their struggle despite the risks. The unrest highlights what sources describe as a deliberate policy by the Pakistan Army: to maintain PoK in a state of economic dependence and political invisibility. While infrastructure projects in the region are prioritised for military logistics, civilian demands for hospitals, schools, and roads are systematically ignored. Furthermore, local natural resources, especially hydropower and minerals, are being heavily exploited to benefit Punjab province and military establishments, leaving local populations without fair compensation or development opportunities. Islamabad has deliberately kept PoK economically backward to maintain control," a source told CNN-News18. Infrastructure that does exist is built for the Pakistan Armys benefitnot for the civilians who live here." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Even though PoK is technically a self-governing region, Islamabad exercises tight control through bureaucratic interference and military oversight, rendering local leadership virtually powerless. Human rights organisations have long accused Pakistan of using heavy-handed tactics in PoK, including arbitrary arrests, custodial torture, enforced disappearances, and targeted killings of dissenters. These methods have kept a lid on dissent for years, but the scale and anger of the current protests suggest that the fear barrier is beginning to break. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:31 IST News world Pakistan Army Uses Lathi Charge, Tear Gas On Protesters Seeking 'Azadi' In PoK's Rawalakot 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... Putin Plays To Trumps Nobel Hopes Ahead Of Alaska Trip: 'US Efforts To End Conflict Sincere' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 18:37 IST Putin will meet Trump in Alaska on August 15 before the New START treaty expires in 2026. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin react at the end of the joint news conference after their meeting in Helsinki, Finland, in this 2018 file photo. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE) Russia President Vladimir Putin said the United States is making energetic and sincere efforts to end the conflict" in Ukraine, offering long-term conditions for peace if we reach agreements on strategic offensive arms control." His remarks, delivered ahead of his trip to Alaska for a summit with US President Donald Trump, were captured in a Kremlin-released video and first shared on social media by Financial Times journalist Max Seddon. The meeting in Anchorage on August 15 will be the first in-person talks between the two leaders in years and comes as the New START nuclear arms treaty is set to expire in February 2026. Recommended Stories At the start of his second term, US President Donald Trump hailed Russian President Vladimir Putin, ahead of a planned meeting in Alaska for key talks on the Ukraine war. But with his promised 24-hour" peace deal still elusive months later, Trumps once-warm tone toward Putin has grown noticeably sharper. On January 20, Trump told reporters, I think hes destroying Russia by not making a deal I got along with him great." The following day on Truth Social, he posted: Im going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! ITS ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE." The Kremlin responded in kind. On January 24, Putin told Russian state media that Trump was not only a smart person, but a pragmatic person," adding that the Ukraine conflict might never have erupted if Trump had been president in 2022. But the productive calls turned into pointed warnings soon. By mid-February, Trump was still upbeat, describing a February 12 call with Putin as lengthy and highly productive" and noting the Russian leader had even used his campaign motto, COMMON SENSE." But in late March, his tone shifted. Speaking to NBC, Trump said he was very angry, very pissed off" at Putin for questioning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys credibility. On April 24, he urged Putin publicly: Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets get the Peace Deal DONE!" Days later, he hinted at tougher measures, suggesting the Russian leader has to be dealt with differently, through Banking or Secondary Sanctions." Patience Runs Out By late May, Trumps patience appeared to have run out. Ive always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!" he wrote on May 25. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Still, the two leaders kept in touch. On June 14, Trump said Putin had very nicely" called to wish him a happy birthday, though by July the optimism was gone. We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin Hell talk so beautifully and then bomb people at night," Trump told reporters. By the end of July, Trump declared he was not so interested" in speaking to Putin. Yet, days before Fridays summit, he struck a more diplomatic note, saying he expected a constructive conversation" in Alaska. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Moscow, Russia First Published: August 14, 2025, 18:33 IST News world Putin Plays To Trumps Nobel Hopes Ahead Of Alaska Trip: 'US Efforts To End Conflict Sincere' 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... Rocket Force Command: Following Op Sindoor, Pakistan Scrambles To Boost Missile Capabilities Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 19:03 IST The announcement made during Independence Day celebrations in Islamabad came after a radar and air defence installation in Lahore was "neutralised during Operation Sindoor. On Independence Day, Sharif unveils Rocket Force Command after Indian strikes crippled key radar and air defence sites. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Pakistan has announced the formation of a new military unit, the Rocket Force Command, aimed at overseeing and enhancing its missile capabilities. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled this development during an Independence Day ceremony in Islamabad on Thursday. The announcement comes months after a conflict with India where it suffered losses after Pakistan Army intervened on behalf of terrorists that Indian forces were targeting for carrying out an attack on civilians in Pahalgam under counter-terror operation Operation Sindoor. Recommended Stories The move to strengthen Pakistans missile capabilities came after Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter jets took out radar installations in Pasrur and Chunian, damaged Arifwala and the Sialkot aviation base, rendered Rahim Yar Khan airbase non-operational for a while and also neutralising a radar and air defence installation in Lahore, which blinded portions of Pakistans central airspace coverage, during the conflict. Shehbaz Sharif said that the new military unit would be equipped with modern technology". It will improve our conventional war capabilities," Sharif was quoted as saying by the news agency AFP. Islamabad is boosting its military capabilities following the conflict, increasing defence spending by 20 percent in the current budget that was passed in June. The government also announced that it was in discussions to acquire 40 new Chinese fighter jets and new air defence systems. Sharif amped up the war rhetoric, claiming that the new unit is capable of striking the enemy from all directions". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier, Pakistans Army Chief General Asim Munir at an event in Floridas Tampa said that it will take half the world down with it and threatened nuclear war in a brazen anti-India rant. Pakistans former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also war mongered earlier this week claiming Pakistan is ready to fight a war for river waters after India held the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance for Pakistans continuous state support for terrorism. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Islamabad, Pakistan First Published: August 14, 2025, 16:44 IST News world Rocket Force Command: Following Op Sindoor, Pakistan Scrambles To Boost Missile Capabilities 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... Texas School Bus Crash Leaves Multiple Children Injured, 2 Airlifted Curated By : Trending Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 05:04 IST The vehicle was transporting 42 students and one adult from Bagdad Elementary School. Emergency crews responded swiftly, and a reunification centre for parents and guardians was established (Pexels/Representative Image) A school bus carrying 43 people overturned in Leander, Texas, on Wednesday afternoon, leaving several children injured, according to Fox7. Of the injured, two students were airlifted to hospital due to the severity of their injuries. The bus driver was also hurt in the incident. The vehicle was transporting 42 students and one adult from Bagdad Elementary School, part of the Leander Independent School District (LISD). The crash occurred in the Sandy Creek neighbourhood. Recommended Stories Emergency crews responded swiftly, and a reunification centre for parents and guardians was established at Round Mountain Baptist Church to assist in safely reuniting families with students. The Travis County Sheriffs Office (TCSO) confirmed the incident, while Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS) reported that the crash occurred at approximately 3:16 p.m. ET in the 22000 block of Nameless Road, near Palamino Ranch Drive and Honeycomb Lane. According to ATCEMS, one person sustained life-threatening injuries, and two others suffered serious, potentially life-threatening injuries. Other injuries among students were described as non-life-threatening. 1/2 FINAL School Bus Rollover on Nameless Rd: A total of ten patients (9 children, 1 adult) transported from the scene to area hospitals.2 children sustained serious, not expected to be life threatening injuries, the remainder had non life threatening injuries. ATCEMS (@ATCEMS) August 13, 2025 Despite the concerning scene, Travis County Judge Andy Brown reassured the public that there were no fatalities or life-threatening injuries reported among kids." The injured students were transported to local hospitals including Dell Childrens Center, Texas Childrens Hospital North Campus, Dell Childrens North Campus, and Cedar Park Regional Medical Center. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all School officials stated that all parents and guardians were promptly notified. Our number one priority is the safety and well-being of our students," said Dr Barnes, Superintendent of Cleveland ISD, while speaking to ABC13. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Leander ISD confirmed that the bus was part of its fleet and noted that the incident occurred on the first day of the school year. Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 05:04 IST News world Texas School Bus Crash Leaves Multiple Children Injured, 2 Airlifted Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump Seeks Long-Term Federal Control Of Washington DC Police Amid Protests: 'City Under Siege' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 07:12 IST Trump earlier deployed National Guard troops to the capital and took control of its police force as he argued violent crime was out of control. US President Donald Trump (Image Credit: Reuters) US President Donald Trump said he would ask congressional Republicans to extend federal control of Washingtons city police force beyond 30 days, as he declared the US capital was under siege" by thugs and killers, and had the highest rates of crime in the world. Trump also asserted that any congressional action could serve as a model for other US cities. He has previously threatened to expand his efforts to other Democratic-run cities such as Chicago that he claims have failed to address crime. Recommended Stories In a lengthy post on Truth Social, Trump ranted about the high crime rates in DC, claiming that murder rates had doubled in the US capital over a decade and lashing out at the Democrat government for not prosecuting more crime cases. Washington, D.C., has one of the Highest Rates of Crime in the World, more than many of the most violent Third World Countries. The Citys Homicide Rate is higher than places notorious for their violence, such as Mexico City, Bogota, Islamabad, and Addis Ababa Almost ten times higher than Fallujah, Iraq. If D.C. were a State, it would have the highest Homicide Rate of any State in America," he said. Washington, D.C., has one of the Highest Rates of Crime in the World, more than many of the most violent Third World Countries. The Citys Homicide Rate is higher than places notorious for their violence, such as Mexico City, Bogota, Islamabad, and Addis Ababa Almost ten times Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) August 13, 2025 Under Siege By Thugs, Killers Trump invoked the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which permits the president to take Washingtons Metropolitan Police Department under emergency circumstances for up to 30 days, claiming that DC is gripped by a wave of violence and homelessness. He said if the Congress failed to act, he can declare an emergency" to extend the 30-day act. The REAL numbers are many times worse. In fact, a Precinct Commander was just suspended for allegedly manipulating the Violent Crime Statistics, and the D.C. Police Union, likewise, says the real numbers are much higher. Because the Democrat Government of D.C. has largely stopped investigating, arresting, and prosecuting most Crime, the published statistics dont even capture a fraction of the actual Violence. No one is arrested for shoplifting. Citizens living in fear have largely given up on calling the Police, instead choosing not to walk the streets after dark, essentially becoming captive prisoners in their own City." Trump further said that real crime rates in Washington DC were five to ten times more than reported, and the capital was under siege from thugs and killers." He further said, The White House is in charge. The Military and our Great Police will liberate this City, scrape away the filth, and make it safe, clean, habitable and beautiful once more!" ALSO READ: National Guard In DC: What It Is And The Unique Power That Lets A President Deploy It Authoritarian Push 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". Officials have said that 800 National Guard troops have been deployed, according to the BBC. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said at least 23 people had been arrested by federal agents on Monday for homicide, gun offences, drug dealing and other crimes. 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," she said. Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has denied that crime is out of control in her city, describing Trumps troop deployment as an authoritarian push". 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. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Trump has argued that crime is out of control" in Washington DC, despite federal and city crime statistics showing that violent crime has declined precipitously to its lowest in 30 years, since a spike in 2023. (with agency inputs) About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 06:57 IST News world Trump Seeks Long-Term Federal Control Of Washington DC Police Amid Protests: 'City Under Siege' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trump Vows To Get Ukraine War Stopped Ahead Of Meeting With Putin In Alaska Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 20:17 IST US President Trump will meet Russian President Putin in Alaska to discuss ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The summit will be held at a military base. Trump and Putin will hold talks on August 15 to discuss a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. (AP/File) Ahead of his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, US President Donald Trump on Thursday vowed to end the Russia-Ukraine war, saying that he inherited this from Joe Biden, but hes going to get it stopped. This will be the first in-person meeting between Trump and Putin since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Recommended Stories Were going to get it stopped. I inherited this from Joe Biden, but were going to get it stopped," the US President said. .@POTUS on his mindset" ahead of tomorrows meeting with President Putin: Were going to get it stopped. I inherited this from Joe Biden, but were going to get it stopped." pic.twitter.com/xkFb8kQcZL Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 14, 2025 According to CNN, Trump and Putin will hold a joint press conference following their upcoming meeting in Alaska. The much-awaited meeting is scheduled to take place on Friday. During the Alaska summit, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold talks over ending the war in Ukraine. Interestingly, the high-stakes meeting will take place at a military base in Alaska that was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War and still plays a role today, news agency AP reported, citing a White House official. Since the US-Russia summit was announced last week, Trump has made several comments about land-swapping" between Kyiv and Moscow. This has sparked serious concern in Ukraine and beyond, with many fearing he may concede to Putins long-standing demand for control over vast areas of Ukrainian territory. Trump has said that a peace deal might include swapping land between Russia and Ukraine. He also suggested that Zelenskyy and Putin could meet next or that he might meet with both of them. 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," AP quoted Trump as saying on Wednesday. Its going to be a very important meeting, but its setting the table for the second meeting," he added. The BBC reports that Putin has stated Russia would agree to a ceasefire if the Ukrainian government withdrew from the four partially Russian-controlled regions Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. He also insisted that Ukraine must formally abandon its bid to join the NATO military alliance, the outlet added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, Zelensky has expressed deep concerns over being excluded from the upcoming summit, warning that any peace deal excluding Kyiv will lead to dead solutions. Officials from Ukraine and Europe fear that the one-on-one meeting they will not take part in could lead to a result favouring Russian goals. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 20:16 IST News world Trump Vows To Get Ukraine War Stopped Ahead Of Meeting With Putin 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... Attendees of an award ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year Chinese Government Scholarship pose for a group photo in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Aug. 13, 2025. (The Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka/Handout via Xinhua) COLOMBO, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka held an award ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year Chinese Government Scholarship on Wednesday, with 30 Sri Lankan students receiving scholarships. Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, Madhura Senevirathne, highly praised the Chinese government's continued support for Sri Lanka's educational development through scholarship programs. He said this year's scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, medicine, and agriculture, providing critical support for cultivating multidisciplinary talent in Sri Lanka. He expressed the hope that the students studying in China will diligently pursue their studies and become bridges for cooperation between the two countries upon their return. Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong extended warm congratulations to the scholarship-winning students, and encouraged them to cherish the opportunity to study in China, deeply experience China's 5,000-year-old civilization and broaden their international horizons, aspire to use their knowledge to contribute to Sri Lanka's development, serve as ambassadors of friendship between China and Sri Lanka, and help write a new chapter in bilateral relations. Madhura Senevirathne (L), Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education, presents a certificate to a student at an award ceremony for the 2025-2026 academic year Chinese Government Scholarship in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Aug. 13, 2025. (The Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka/Handout via Xinhua) Two Days After India Visit, China's Wang Yi To Attend Trilateral Conference With Afghanistan, Pakistan Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 22:40 IST The conference was originally scheduled to take place in Pakistan but had to be cancelled after the Afghan foreign minister did not receive clearance to travel to Islamabad Pakistan foreign minister Ishaq Dar along with his Chinese counterparts Wang Yi and Amir Khan Muttaqi will address trilateral issues of mutual interest. (Image: @MIshaqDar50/X) Afghanistan will host the foreign ministers of China and Pakistan for a trilateral conference on August 20 in Kabul, two days after Wang Yis scheduled visit to India to meet national security adviser Ajit Doval. China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan will take part with their top delegations for the meeting, which was originally scheduled to take place in Pakistan but had to be cancelled after the Afghan foreign minister did not receive clearance to travel to Pakistan. Recommended Stories The three countries will discuss the expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Kabul, counterterrorism measures, and economic cooperation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will arrive in Pakistan late on August 20 to take part in the Pak-China Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad. This will be right after his visit to New Delhi, where he is most likely to also intract with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. During the conference, Wang, Pakistan foreign minister Ishaq Dar and Afghan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will address trilateral issues of mutual interest, including CPEC expansion to Kabul, counterterrorism, rising militancy, and broader economic and trade matters. WHY IS WANG YI VISITING INDIA? Wang is visiting India primarily to hold the next round of Special Representatives (SR) dialogue on the boundary question, authoritative sources said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Wang and Doval are the designated special representatives for the boundary talks. The NSA had travelled to China in December last year and held the SR talks with Wang, weeks after Prime Minister Narendra 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. Modi is expected to travel to China later this month to attend the SCO summit, which will make it his first since the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020. Both sides are in the process to repair bilateral ties, with reports of resumption of border trade as well as air travel. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Location : Kabul, Afghanistan First Published: August 14, 2025, 22:40 IST News world Two Days After India Visit, China's Wang Yi To Attend Trilateral Conference With Afghanistan, Pakistan 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... Will Trump-Putin Talks Break Ukraine Deadlock? Hope And Caution Ahead Of Alaska Meet Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 22:36 IST Ukraine and its European allies fear a one-on-one meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin on the fate of the conflict could be a recipe for disaster. US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin shake hands after their joint news conference in the Presidential Palace in Helsinki, Finland in this 2018 file photo. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Ukraine and its European allies will have their sights set on Anchorage, Alaska when US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet to discuss the fate of the war that has stretched for over three and a half years. Trump raised some concerns when on Thursday he acknowledged that his high-stakes summit with Putin may not succeed, stressing that any deal on Ukraine would involve a future three-way meeting with Kyiv to divvy things up." Recommended Stories The Republican said the Anchorage summit was merely a prelude to a second, three-way meeting where the substantive dealmaking over the Ukraine war would happen. This meeting sets up the second meeting. The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because thats going to be a meeting where they make a deal," Trump told Fox News Radio. And I dont want to use the word divvy things up. But you know, to a certain extent, its not a bad term, okay?" Putin flies to Alaska on Friday at the US Presidents invitation who insisted no deal would be finalized without Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy has rejected any territorial concessions to Russia, which has intensified attacks and made battlefield gains ahead of the Alaska talks. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any future deal must guarantee Ukraines security, adding that he was hopeful" about the summit. Putins Nobel Play When asked if Donald Trump should win a Nobel Peace Prize as the President makes dubious claims of ending major global conflicts, Putin said: The US administration is making quite energetic and sincere efforts to end the fighting". The talks are set to begin at 11:30 am (1930 GMT) Friday at the Elmendorf Air Force Base, a major US military installation in Alaska that has been crucial in monitoring Russia. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This conversation will take place in a one-on-one format, naturally with the participation of interpreters," Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov told reporters in Moscow. He said that delegations would continue discussions over a working lunch and that Putin and Trump would hold a joint news conference. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev... Read More Location : Anchorage/Moscow/Washington DC First Published: August 14, 2025, 22:28 IST News world Will Trump-Putin Talks Break Ukraine Deadlock? Hope And Caution Ahead Of Alaska Meet 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... Several Law Enforcement Officers Shot In Southern Virginia's Pittsylvania County Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 09:08 IST A police official said warrants were being served at a home when multiple law enforcement officials were reportedly shot. Law enforcement responds to a shooting situation in Gretna, Virginia. (AP) Multiple law enforcement officers have been shot in southern Virginia, said US Congressman John McGuire on Wednesday (local time). McGuire said his thoughts and prayers were with deputies shot in Pittsylvania County, as pictures showed a large number of parked police and emergency response vehicles. According to a public official who was briefed on the situation but asked not to be named, warrants were being served at a home when the shooting took place, according to KGNS TV. Recommended Stories The deputies suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the reported shooting, but a SWAT team had to help the victims out of the house. My thoughts and prayers are with the deputies who were shot in Pittsylvania County, as well as their families. We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time," said McGuire on X. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Pittsylvania County Sheriffs Office, Campbell County Sheriffs Office and Virginia State Troopers. Further information is awaited. This follows growing incidents of shootings in the United States, which are quite frequent in the country due to the easy and widespread availability of guns. Earlier, a horrific shooting at a Target store in North Austin, Texas, left at least three people dead and several others injured. Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said the suspect stole a vehicle and attempted to flee the scene after shooting several people in the parking lot, but crashed the vehicle. Prior to that, at least three people were injured in New Yorks Times Square, one of citys most popular tourist places, on Saturday after gunshots were reportedly fired following a verbal dispute, sparking chaos and panic in the area. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A 17-year-old suspect has been taken into custody and a firearm was seized from his possession. The incident at one of New Yorks most iconic tourist spots comes after Julys high-profile shooting in a Manhattan office tower, which left four people dead, including a senior Blackstone executive and an NYPD officer. (with inputs from agencies) About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 08:54 IST News world Several Law Enforcement Officers Shot In Southern Virginia's Pittsylvania County 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... US Priest Accused Of Having Sex With Teen Stripper, Paying Nearly $400,000 In Hush Money Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 23:26 IST Jones said the relationship began in 2009 when she was 17 years old and working at a strip club Sullivan regularly visited Robert Sullivan, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood, Alabama, was accused by Heather Jones, now 33. A 61-year-old Catholic priest in Alabama is under investigation after being accused of having a sexual relationship with a stripper and paying her nearly $400,000 to keep silent about it. Robert Sullivan, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood, Alabama, was accused by Heather Jones, now 33. Recommended Stories Jones said the relationship began in 2009 when she was 17 years old and working at a strip club Sullivan regularly visited. She claimed he offered financial support in exchange for private companionship," which included sex, The Guardian reported. Jones described how Sullivan, who initially introduced himself as a doctor, frequently took her shopping, dining, drinking, and to hotels in at least six cities across Alabama over several years. She also said he bought her a phone and paid for her rehab treatment while she struggled with addiction and depression. In 2024 and 2025, Jones alleged that Sullivan paid her nearly $120,000 through more than 125 Venmo transactions. In addition, she received $273,000 through two wire transfers of $136,500 each from an attorneys office as part of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Jones shared bank records, an email from Sullivans church address, and a copy of the unsigned NDA to support her claims. She came forward because she fears others could be vulnerable to similar exploitation, as Sullivan continues to work closely with families and children in his parish. The Catholic Diocese of Birmingham confirmed that Sullivan has been placed on personal leave" while an independent review board investigates the allegations. The diocese has also forwarded the matter to the Vaticans office that handles clergy misconduct cases. Bishop Steven Raica, leader of the Birmingham Diocese, said there was not enough evidence to open a criminal investigation, but a diocesan inquiry is ongoing in line with Church law and policies. He also assured that the woman has received appropriate support from the dioceses Victim Assistance Coordinator. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Sullivan has served as a priest for more than 32 years and was previously president of John Carroll High School for six years. The case remains under review, and Sullivan is barred from public ministry until the investigation concludes. 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 : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 23:26 IST News world US Priest Accused Of Having Sex With Teen Stripper, Paying Nearly $400,000 In Hush Money Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... US Promises Counter-Terrorism Support To Pakistan, Agrees To Share Intelligence & Funds | Exclusive Reported By : CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 11:20 IST The United States expressed its intent to create a peaceful economic corridor through Pakistan to Kabul, which could facilitate trade and enhance stability in the war-torn country The talks also touched upon regional security and economic stability, particularly concerning Afghanistan. In a significant development for US-Pakistan relations, both nations have agreed to strengthen their counter-terrorism cooperation in a recent high-level meeting, with the United States offering full support to Pakistan in its fight against terror groups. The discussions, held between US and Pakistani officials, outlined a series of commitments that signal a deepening of ties, especially in intelligence-sharing, military assistance, and cross-border security operations. Recommended Stories Diplomatic sources in Islamabad told CNN-News18 that the United States pledged to provide vital support to Pakistans ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, particularly from groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The commitment came at a time when Pakistan is facing increased threats from militant groups along its borders, particularly the volatile regions along the Pak-Afghan and Pak-Iran frontiers. The United States will also share critical intelligence with Pakistan to help tackle cross-border terrorism. This includes satellite surveillance to monitor human infiltration along Pakistans borders. The collaboration aims to enhance border security and track terrorist movements in real-time, especially across areas prone to militant activity. In addition to intelligence sharing, America will provide specialised funds and assistance to Pakistans military to conduct large-scale operations against terrorist groups. Sources told CNN-News18 that this is a part of a broader effort to help stabilise the region, which has been plagued by insurgent groups operating from both Pakistan and Afghanistan. One of the most notable developments from the meeting was the expressed interest of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in resuming its intelligence operations within Pakistan. This comes after years of tension between the two countries over intelligence-sharing and the presence of US operatives in the country. Pakistan is expected to respond to this request in the near future. Another significant aspect of the discussions was the renewal of the Coalition Support Fund (CSF), which had been suspended by the Trump administration in 2018. The CSF is a US financial aid programme designed to reimburse Pakistan for its counterterrorism efforts. The resumption of this fund signals a shift toward closer cooperation, especially in military and security matters. The talks also touched upon regional security and economic stability, particularly concerning Afghanistan. The United States expressed its intent to create a peaceful economic corridor through Pakistan to Kabul, which could facilitate trade and enhance stability in the war-torn country. This proposal was part of the Trump administrations vision for the region, but it had faced numerous obstacles in the past. Pakistan has agreed to facilitate this effort, further cementing its role as a key player in Afghan peace and reconstruction. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Additionally, the United States has requested Pakistans assistance in recovering military equipment left behind by American forces during their 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. The request highlights the growing trust between the two countries, with Pakistan playing a crucial role in helping the US retrieve sensitive equipment from the region. The discussions ended with a commitment to continue dialogue, with the next round of counterterrorism talks scheduled to take place in Washington next year. About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 11:20 IST News world US Promises Counter-Terrorism Support To Pakistan, Agrees To Share Intelligence & Funds | Exclusive 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... US Wishes Pakistan On Independence Day, Appreciates 'Engagement On Counterterrorism' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 08:44 IST Rubio's wish came after an uptick in relations between the US and Pakistan, after Washington designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a foreign terrorist organisation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio (File pic/Reuters) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended congratulations to Pakistan as the country celebrates its Independence Day on August 14 (Thursday), saying the United States deeply appreciates Pakistans engagement on counterterrorism". On behalf of the United States, I extend our warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 14. The United States deeply appreciates Pakistans engagement on counterterrorism and trade," Rubio said in a statement. Recommended Stories We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships which will promote a prosperous future for Americans and Pakistanis." Pakistan observes its Independence Day on August 14, marking the day in 1947 when it was created as a separate nation for Muslims after the partition of British India. US-Pakistan Relations Relations between the US and Pakistan are seemingly on the rise, after Washington designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as foreign terrorist organisations. The announcement coincided with Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munirs second visit to the US. The US has also committed to investing in Pakistans energy and mineral mining sectors, as the two countries reached a trade deal that allows Washington to help develop Pakistans oil reserves and lower tariffs for the country. Pakistan and the US also held a counterterrorism dialogue in Islamabad recently, even though India put out strong evidence of the Pakistani link to the Pahalgam attack terrorists in front of the world. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all US President Donald Trump has been claiming that he used trade as a tool to convince both warring nations to agree to a ceasefire. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modis made it clear in the Parliament that there was no third-party intervention, setting the record straight on India-Pakistan military conflict. There have been concerns in India over the US giving a platform to Munir to make nuclear threats after he recently said Pakistan would take half of the world down", and the silence of the US State Department shows the country is refusing to take onus on the matter. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 08:44 IST News world US Wishes Pakistan On Independence Day, Appreciates 'Engagement On Counterterrorism' 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 Psychologists See Trump As Stubborn, Aggressive And Narcissistic Curated By : Translation Desk Last Updated: August 14, 2025, 15:42 IST According to Psychology Today, Trumps personality is unusual, insolent, and aggressive. Experts say his behavior shows narcissistic, antisocial, and paranoid traits Psychologist Dan McAdams notes that Donald Trump rarely reflects deeply, instead living in the present and focusing on surface-level considerations. (AP/File) Many renowned psychologists and psychiatrists have conducted mental analyses of Donald Trump, primarily based on his public behaviour and statements without meeting him personally. Experts have linked Trumps behaviour to symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder, characterised by self-centeredness and a lack of empathy for others. Psychologists have described Trumps mental state as indicative of psychopathic personality disorder, which includes a lack of guilt or shame, extreme impulsiveness, and a desire to control others. Psychoanalyst Dan McAdams claimed Trump displays extraordinary grandiosity and a minimal tendency to compromise. Recommended Stories Psychiatrists like John Gartner have labelled Trump a malignant narcissist", a term denoting self-importance, aggression, dishonesty, and a lack of empathy. McAdams also referred to Trump as an episodic man," always living in the present moment without considering history or the future. In the book The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump" edited by Bandy Lee in 2017, 27 psychiatrists described Trumps mentality as a threat to society and the world, citing a duty to warn." The psychology magazine Psychology Today" conducted a psychological analysis of Donald Trump with several American psychologists. Here are their findings in question-and-answer format. What do psychologists say about President Trumps personality? According to Psychology Today, President Trumps personality is described as unusual, insolent, and aggressive, particularly since gaining immense power. Several mental health professionals have publicly suggested that his behaviour exhibits traits consistent with narcissistic, antisocial, and paranoid personality disorders. What do psychologists say about President Trumps childhood? In July 2020, President Trumps niece, clinical psychologist Mary Trump, published Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the Worlds Most Dangerous Man. She wrote that Trumps mother was self-centered and emotionally distant, while his father was devoid of warmth and empathy. According to her, Trump grew up without role models for sensitivity, compassion, or reciprocityqualities that were discouraged, even seen as dangerous, within the family. She argues that his lifelong quest for his fathers approval shaped his unusual and abrasive personality. Is narcissism a personality disorder, as observed in Trump? Trump exhibits extreme narcissism, considering himself superior and seeking constant praise. He strives to remain at the forefront. Why do traits like cunningness and cruelty appear in his behavior? Trumps behaviour reveals psychopathy, as evidenced by cruelty, cunningness, and a lack of empathy. His reactions are often fast and aggressive. Why do psychologists say he may also have a mood disorder, and what are its effects? Experts have linked Trumps behavior to mood disorders such as hypomania, which can lead to sudden, impulsive decisions. He sometimes reacts irrationally or without reflection. Psychologists note that when faced with challenges or opposition, he often takes it personally and responds immediately, driven by his quick temper, angry outbursts, and a confrontational warlike style. What are the psychological reasons behind Trumps aggression? According to experts, Trump exhibits strong narcissistic tendencies, viewing himself as superior and seeking to remain the center of attention in all situations. As a result, he often perceives criticism or opposition as a personal attack and reacts emotionally. His decision-making style is impulsive and emotionally charged. He frequently responds aggressively on foreign policy or political issues without thorough consideration, a pattern that fuels his aggressive behavior. Both historical psychological theories and observations of Trumps behavior suggest that his reactions are marked by anger and confrontation. He tends to push his point of view forcefully, which contributes to his aggressive demeanor. Psychologist Dan McAdams notes that Trump rarely reflects deeply, instead living in the present and focusing on surface-level considerations. Some experts argue that his extreme displays of aggression or madness may be strategic, designed to unsettle opponents and secure favorable outcomes. How can Trumps desire to win the Nobel Prize be analysed from a psychological perspective? Trumps pronounced narcissism leads him to view himself as the most important and influential leader. His pursuit of the Nobel Prize reflects this narcissism and his craving for recognition, as he seeks to portray himself as a global peacemaker and see the award as validation of his greatness. What do individuals like Trump do when they become the head of a nation? What do psychologists say about this? Leaders with pronounced narcissistic traits often perceive themselves as extremely important after attaining high positions. They struggle to tolerate criticism and work hard to maintain their image. This can result in aggressive and impulsive decision-making, often aimed more at protecting their personal interests or reputation than serving the national interest. Such leaders seek credit for every achievement and prominently display it on the international stage. They publicize their decisions and successes extensively, presenting themselves as the central figure, which can escalate confrontation and aggression in diplomacy. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Psychologists note that instead of developing well-considered strategies, these leaders may make rapid, emotion-driven decisions, sometimes irrational, which can spark conflicts internally and externally, weakening cooperation and alliances. Additionally, narcissistic leadership fosters deep societal polarization. Their style generates intense enthusiasm among supporters but creates fear and intolerance among opposition parties and minorities, threatening political stability and unity. Erratic mood swings and impulsive decisions can further destabilize national and global policies. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: August 14, 2025, 15:42 IST News world Why Psychologists See Trump As Stubborn, Aggressive And Narcissistic 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... Two pipeline maintenance workers carry out roadside repairs in Canberra, Australia, Aug. 15, 2025. Australia's unemployment rate fell to 4.2 percent in July as female participation in the workforce hit a record high. (Photo by Zhang Na/Xinhua) CANBERRA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Australia's unemployment rate fell to 4.2 percent in July as female participation in the workforce hit a record high. Official monthly figures published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Thursday revealed that the unemployment rate was 4.2 percent in July, down from 4.3 percent in June. The ABS said that the number of employed Australians increased by 24,500 between June and July, and by 263,700 in the 12 months to July. It said that the number of Australians employed full-time grew by 60,500 from June to July, which was slightly offset by a 35,900 decline in the number of people employed on a part-time basis. Female full-time workers grew by 40,000 between June and July, the ABS said, and the female employment-to-population ratio and participation rate reached new record-highs of 60.9 percent and 63.5 percent, respectively. The total number of hours worked by Australians was 0.3 percent higher in July than in June. The Reserve Bank of Australia, the country's central bank, said in updated forecasts released on Tuesday that it expects the unemployment rate to stabilize at around 4.3 percent over 2026 and 2027. A man stands in front of an APM office, which provides employment services, disability employment support, and workplace wellness programs, in Canberra, Australia, Aug. 15, 2025. Australia's unemployment rate fell to 4.2 percent in July as female participation in the workforce hit a record high. (Photo by Zhang Na/Xinhua) CANBERRA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Arctic reindeer numbers could fall by up to 80 percent by 2100 due to climate warming, Australian-led research warned on Thursday. Researchers used fossils, ancient DNA and climate models to track how the Ice Age herbivore, vital to Arctic Indigenous livelihoods, has adapted over the past 21,000 years, according to a statement released by the University of Adelaide in Australia. Climate change has cut global Arctic reindeer numbers by nearly two-thirds in the past 30 years, said the study detailed in Science Advances, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. "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," said the study's lead researcher Elisabetta Canteri from the University of Adelaide and the University of Copenhagen in Denmark. North American caribou could drop by up to 80 percent by 2100 without major emission cuts and increased conservation efforts, said University of Adelaide Associate Professor Damien Fordham, who co-led the research. Such declines could heighten the vulnerability of reindeer, setting off cascading effects, from reduced tundra plant diversity to the release of stored carbon from Arctic soils, intensifying global warming and further threatening the species and the ecosystems that rely on them, researchers warn. "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," said Professor Eric Post, from the University of California Davis in the United States, who contributed to this research. The COVID pandemic has failed to kill New York City office culture, as some predicted. A new analysis from location analytics platform Placer.ai , which tracks foot traffic at 1,000 commercial buildings across the country, finds office visits in NYC have rebounded and, in a first for any major US city tracked by the company, are now higher than pre-pandemic levels, per Axios . Office foot traffic was 1.3% higher last month than in July 2019, according to the company. Placer.ai attributes this in part to the city's high share of finance-related businesses, which have been leading the charge in getting employees back into offices. Nationwide, July was "the single busiest in-office month since COVID," according to Placer.ai, with visits down 21.8% relative to July 2019, and up more than 10% compared to July 2024. Office visits in Miami, which also has a booming financial sector, are nearly back to pre-pandemic levels as well, just 0.1% lower this July than in 2019. And change can be quick. As of April, visits to NYC office buildings remained 5.5% below the rate of five years prior, per the New York Post. Other companies say the data show only part of the picture. Kastle, which tracks security access data, says office occupancy in NYC on Tuesdays (the highest occupied day of the week) in July was 66%, while weekly occupancy rates remained under 55%. Britain's foreign minister is facing a fine after a fishing trip with the vice president of the United States. But no, it's not because David Lammy dared to fish with JD Vance at all, it's because he allegedly did so without a rod license, CNN reports. Lammy referred himself to the UK's environment watchdog over the offense, which took place at Lammy's English countryside retreat, where Lammy hosted Vance. The minister could be hit with a $3,400 fine. Vance remained in the UK for a family vacation after first traveling there for diplomatic engagements, and joked in a press conference held with Lammy after the fishing trip, "Unfortunately, the one strain on the special relationship is that all of my kids caught fish, but the foreign secretary did not." The fish were reportedly returned to the property's private lake, the Guardian reports. Harvey Weinstein faces sentencing and a possible retrial in his New York City sex crimes case, but it's still unclear when they'll happenand 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 there's 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, per the AP . Prosecutors and Weinstein's lawyers vowed Wednesday that they were willing to square off at yet another trialit would be his third in New York and fourth overall. But Weinstein's lawyers aren't ruling out the possibility of reaching a deal to resolve the case, though they also emphasize he's 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 couldn't 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 prisonless than Weinstein has already served, and far less than the potential 25 years he faces for his conviction related to Haley. 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. The digital forensics expert who analyzed convicted murderer Bryan Kohberger's phone made some interesting finds. For one thing, the man convicted of killing four University of Idaho students in an off-campus home called his mother less than two hours after committing the crime, shortly after returning to his home on the Washington State University campus, Heather Barnhart tells People . They spoke for 36 minutes beginning at 6:17am on Nov. 13, 2022. Then at 8:03am, the killer called Maryann Kohberger again, speaking to her for nearly an hour as he drove back to the murder scene. At Kohberger's plea hearing, Latah County prosecutor Bill Thompson said Kohberger spent 10 minutes at the scene around 9am, presumably after ending the call with his mother but before the bodies of the victims had been discovered. The former criminology student then returned home and took a smiling selfie, giving a thumbs up. Barnhart says Kohberger mostly spoke to his parents, calling his mother as early as 4am some days. The pair spoke three more times on the day of the murders, once for 96 minutes. Barnhart says apart from a benign group chat, Kohberger's phone did not show any texts with people outside of his family. The Samsung Galaxy had been powered off between 2:54am and 4:48am, though it was at "100% charged," says Barnhart. Kohberger probably thought he was protecting himself, but it showed intention, and seemed to dispute the claim that Kohberger was out stargazing and taking photos at that time, Barnhart notes. After pleading guilty, Kohberger is now serving four consecutive life terms. A fox tested positive for rabies after attacking two people in Aberdeen, North Carolina, in separate incidents just 30 minutes apart, authorities said this week. Both encounters occurred the morning of August 11, with the first bite reported on Midway Road around 8:05am and the second on Sycamore Street about half an hour later, USA Today reports. According to the Moore County Sheriff's Office, the victims live nearby but did not know each other. Animal control deputies responded and shot and killed the fox, which was later confirmed to have rabies at a state lab, My Fox 8 reports. Both individuals received medical care and are expected to recover, Sheriff Ronnie Fields said in a statement. One of them recalls going outside to check on what she thought was an injured cat, only to be attacked by the fox. Local authorities are urging residents to keep their distance from wildlife, especially animals acting strangely or aggressively. "Leave it alone" and "stay on guard," WildlifeHelp.org advises, warning that there could be other infected animals in the area. Residents are encouraged to contact animal control if they spot wildlife behaving oddly. story continues below The sheriff's office is asking anyone who sees suspicious animal behavior in Aberdeen to call Moore County Animal Services at 910-947-2858. The public is reminded not to approach wild animals, particularly if they appear aggressive or disoriented, as rabies remains a threat in the region. As wildfires driven by scorching winds and relentless heat creep toward the heart of Patras, Greece's third-largest city, a wave of evacuations and devastation sweeps across southern Europe, highlighting the mounting toll of an unforgiving heatwave, the BBC reports. Fanned by high winds and temperatures nearing 100 degrees Fahrenheit, flames have reached city outskirts, prompting urgent evacuationsincluding a children's hospitaland sending thick smoke across the skyline. Nearly 10,000 hectares in the Achaia region have burned in just two days, leaving villages empty, homes razed, and hundreds of vehiclesmore than 500 at a single customs yardreduced to charred shells. Patras' usually busy streets were quiet Wednesday, with only a few onlookers watching the fire descend from surrounding mountains. Local hospitals are treating residents for breathing issues caused by the smoke, while nearby towns and villages face new evacuation orders. More than 4,800 firefighters are battling more than 20 blazes in Greece, with support from EU water bombers requested. Coast Guards have rescued dozens from beaches on the islands of Zante and Chios. "It looks like doomsday. May God help us and help the people here," says one person who came from Athens to help. Elsewhere, the heatwave stretches from Portugal to the Balkans, with other wildfires burning across the region. Spain on Wednesday endured its tenth straight day of extreme temperaturesa volunteer firefighter and a civilian were killed as fires swept the country, which saw highs of 113 degrees. The state weather office has put nearly the entire country on high fire alert, warning the heat could last through Monday. Portugal and Albania are dealing with multiple wildfires, and Italy has just contained a blaze on Mount Vesuvius amid record heat. Britain, too, is in its fourth heatwave of the summer. Wildfires have destroyed almost 440,000 hectares in Europe this season, double the average amount, Reuters reports. (Canada is experiencing its second-worst wildfire season on record.) SANAA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi armed group on Thursday claimed responsibility for a fresh "hypersonic ballistic missile" strike on an airport in central Israel earlier in the day. "The Yemeni armed forces (Houthi armed forces) carried out a qualitative military operation targeting Ben Gurion Airport, using a hypersonic ballistic missile," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a statement aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. "The operation successfully achieved its goal ... and forced millions of Israelis to flee to shelters, as well as halting the airport operations," Sarea said. The attack is "a victory for the oppressed Palestinian people" and a response to the crimes of genocide and starvation committed by the enemy in the Gaza Strip, he said. Earlier in the day, the Israeli Defense Forces said it had identified a missile flying from Yemen toward Israel, which was intercepted by Israel's aerial defense systems. The Houthis, which control much of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, have been launching attacks against Israeli targets since November 2023 to show solidarity with the Palestinian people amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. 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 spookedthe 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 list of unflattering nicknames, including "demon rabbits," "Frankenstein bunnies," and "zombie rabbits," per the AP . But their affliction is nothing new, with the virus inspiring ancient folklore and fueling scientific research nearly 100 years ago. 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 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, said on Wednesday that the agency has been getting calls about the rabbits seen in Fort Collins. story continues below Van Hoose said, however, that it's 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 don't 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 noted. South Korea's Supreme Court rejected a $21,600 damage claim on Thursday by an American composer who accused a South Korean kids content company of plagiarizing his version of "Baby Shark," ending a six-year legal battle over the globally popular tune known for its catchy "doo doo doo doo doo doo" hook. As the AP reports, the top court upheld lower court rulings dating back to 2021 and 2023 that found no sufficient grounds to conclude Pinkfong infringed on Jonathan Wright's copyright. Wright, also known as "Johnny Only," had recorded his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfong's, but both were based on a traditional melody popular for years at children's summer camps in the United States. The courts ruled that Wright's version didn't differ enough from the original melody to qualify as an original creative work eligible for copyright protection, and that Pinkfong's song had clear differences from Wright's. The Supreme Court said its ruling reaffirms the established legal principle on existing folk tunes as derivative work. "The Supreme Court accepts the lower court's finding that the plaintiff's song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune related to the case to the extent that it could be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work," it said in a statement. Pinkfong's "Baby Shark" became a global phenomenon after it was released on YouTube in 2015, with the original "Baby Shark Dance" video now exceeding 16 billion views and peaking at No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Baby Shark" remains a crucial product for Pinkfong, which earned $32.6 million in revenue in the first half of 2025, according to its regulatory filing. The company has turned the five-member shark familyBaby Shark, Mama Shark, Papa Shark, Grandma Shark, and Grandpa Sharkinto TV and Netflix shows, movies, smartphone apps, and globally touring musicals. A Rhode Island man accused of faking his death and fleeing the United States to evade rape charges was found guilty Wednesday of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend in his first of two Utah trials, the AP reports. A jury in Salt Lake County found Nicholas Rossi guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial in which his accuser and her parents took the stand. The verdict came hours after Rossi, 38, declined to testify on his own behalf. He will be sentenced in the case on Oct. 20 and is set to stand trial in September for another rape charge in Utah County. First-degree felony rape carries a punishment in Utah of five years to life in prison, said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. Utah authorities began searching for Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, when he was identified through a decade-old DNA rape kit. He was among thousands of rape suspects identified and later charged when the state made a push to clear its rape kit backlog. Months after he was charged in Utah County, an online obituary claimed Rossi had died on Feb. 29, 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But police in his home state of Rhode Island, along with his former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was dead. He was arrested in Scotland the following year while receiving treatment for COVID-19 after hospital staff in Glasgow recognized his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Rossi was extradited to Utah in January 2024 while insisting he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. Investigators say they identified at least a dozen aliases Rossi used over the years to evade capture. He appeared in court this week in a wheelchair, wearing a suit and tie and using an oxygen tank. Rossi grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and had returned there before allegedly faking his death. He was previously wanted in the state for failing to register as a sex offender. The FBI has said he also faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. US President 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, the AP reports. Trump's comment came after a virtual meeting with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, 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. European diplomats who spoke to CNN said Trump said he would not negotiate the ceding of Ukrainian territory with Putin, as that's not his to negotiate with. A 500-year-old document bearing the signature of Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes has made its way back to Mexico after decades missing, according to the FBI. The manuscript, dated February 20, 1527, offers a rare look at the financial workings of New Spain's early government, detailing gold payments for administrative expenses, per NBC News . The FBI's Art Crime Team located the artifact, noting its journey through various owners has made any criminal prosecution unlikely. Special Agent Jessica Dittmer described the manuscript as a "protected cultural property," emphasizing its significance to Mexico's understanding of its colonial past. The document, dated eight years after Cortes' arrival in modern-day Mexico, was likely taken from Mexican archives sometime between 1985 and 1993, based in part on a system of wax seals used by archivists. Cortes, who was serving as governor of New Spain at the time, is notorious for leading Spanish expansion into the Americas, including the conquest of the Aztec Empire and the transformation of Tenochtitlan into Mexico City. The year the document was signed also saw the establishment of New Spain's High Court and other key institutions that shaped Mexican governance until the 19th century. This is the second time the FBI has returned a Cortes-signed document to Mexico; a similar repatriation of a letter authorizing the purchase of sugar, initially put up for auction in Massachusetts, occurred in 2023. Despite the recent progress, several pages from the same archival collection remain unaccounted for, and the FBI is urging anyone with information to come forward. Melania Trump has threatened Hunter Biden with a $1 billion lawsuit after he alleged that she met her husband, President Trump, through the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a letter, attorneys for the first lady called Biden's claim "false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory," reports the BBC . They demand a retraction and apology, warning of legal action for what they allege is substantial "financial and reputational harm" after Biden's "extremely salacious" remarks went viral online and in the media, per the AP . The controversy began after Hunter Biden, son of former President Biden, made the comment in a recent interview, referencing supposedly unreleased Epstein-related documents that would purportedly implicate President Trump. Biden credited part of his claim to journalist Michael Wolff, who'd previously spoken about Trump and Epstein's connection (editor's note: Michael Wolff is a Newser co-founder). However, an article from the Daily Beast that touched on the allegation was later retracted following a similar challenge from Melania Trump's legal team. The attorneys' letter accuses Hunter Biden of leveraging the Trump name for attention and basing his statements on unreliable, since-removed reporting. Melania Trump's lawyers insist there's no evidence supporting the claim and point to published accounts, including a 2016 Harper's Bazaar profile, detailing that she met Donald Trump at a party hosted by a modeling agency founder in late 1998. story continues below The dispute comes amid renewed scrutiny of Epstein's connections as pressure mounts for the release of documents from the criminal investigation into his activities. Although President Trump stated in the past that he'd publicize such records if he returned to office, federal authorities have since asserted no incriminating client list exists. Hunter Biden's camp has not publicly responded to the lawsuit threat. Fox News was first to report on the possible suit. The investigation began years ago after two drug dealers got into a car accident in a small Tennessee town. What followed was a series of secret wiretaps, a shoot-out with police, and the discovery of drugs hidden in a tractor trailer that would eventually lead federal investigators back to cartel leaders in Mexico. The investigation culminated with Justice Department indictments unsealed Thursday against three leaders and two high-ranking enforcers of the United Cartels, a leading rival of Jalisco New Generation Cartel, reports the AP . The US government is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of United Cartels' top leader, Juan Jose Farias Alvarez"El Abuelo," or "The Grandfather"along with multimillion-dollar rewards for the four others. All five are believed to be in Mexico. The cases, as outlined in court documents, provide a glimpse into how drugs produced by violent cartels in large labs in Mexico flow across the US border. "These cases in particular serve as a powerful reminder of the insidious impacts that global cartels can have on our local American communities," said Matthew Galeotti, acting assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Department's criminal division. "The chain started with a violent cartel in Mexico and it ended with law enforcement being shot at in a small town." United Cartels holds a fierce grip over the western state of Michoacan, Mexico, and as a prolific meth producer has become a top-tier target for US law enforcement. The case is the latest effort by the Trump administration to turn up the pressure on cartels through not only indictments of the groups' leaders but sanctions. The Treasury Department is also bringing economic sanctions against the five defendants, as well as against the United Cartels as a group and against another cartel, Los Viagras. "We have to pursue these criminals up and down the chain to make sure that the end result doesn't result in violence and narcotics distribution on our streets," Galeotti said. story continues below In addition to "El Abuelo," those indicted are Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, or "Poncho," and Nicolas Sierra Santana, or "El Gordo," who authorities say lead smaller cartels under the United Cartels organization. The two other defendants are Edgar Orozco Cabadas, or "El Kamoni," and Luis Enrique Barragan Chavez, or "Wicho," who serves as Magallon's second-in-command. More backstory here. Among other things, Biden previously said that it was Epstein who introduced the Trumps. However, President Trump himself disputed that on Thursday in an interview with Brian Kilmeade of Fox News, per USA Today. "Jeffrey Epstein had nothing to do with Melania," said the president, adding that he encouraged his wife to file suit. "I told her to go ahead and do it. She was very upset about it." (A similar threat from the first lady resulted in a retraction and apology from James Carville.) Read These Next Man murdered in Mississippi is Trump is calling out the 'arm of You know you're good when you get a high-five FEMA staff: Trump administration is Get the news faster. Tap to install our app. Access Newser even faster. Click here to install our app on your desktop. X KABUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Afghan interim government is getting ready to celebrate its victory day against the U.S.-led military troops' falling on Aug. 15, which paved the way for the withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan four years ago. All the main roads, including the one linking the Kabul International Airport to the emptied U.S. embassy, have been decorated with the white flags of the administration on Thursday. Moreover, the walls of some state-owned buildings and traffic circles have been inscribed with the slogans "Afghans defeated the invaders." The Afghan interim government took over power on Aug. 15, 2021, and the last U.S. soldier left Afghanistan on Aug. 31 of the same year. Since the defeat and pullout of the U.S.-led troops from Afghanistan, the Afghan interim government has marked the day Aug. 15 as "Victory Day." August 11, 2025 Dear colleagues, The ESERA Board has decided to join other professional organisations in recognising our moral and professional responsibility to not remain silent for the war crimes in Gaza and act beyond symbolic solidarity. While ESERA has not traditionally issued statements of this kind, the gravity and urgency of this humanitarian crisis call for a reflection of our values, collective commitment, and responsibility as a community. Similarly to international legal bodies, we recognize the health, psychological, social, economic, educational, and structural collapse occurring in Gaza, which violates childrens fundamental right to education (1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child). Since October 2023 around 96% of schools in Gaza were hit or damaged and 658,760 school-age children remain out of school. At least 612 members of school staff were killed and 2,769 were injured. Furthermore, more than 57 university buildings have been destroyed and over 190 university academic staff have been reported killed (United Nations, 2025). We call for: Immediate international intervention, including a permanent ceasefire, release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access.Defending academic freedom for scholars including those who research, teach, and advocate for the recognition of the Palestinian state.Providing direct support to displaced and targeted scholars, students, and science education professionals.Promoting research into consequences of the disruption of Gazas educational system on children and youth, and design of educational interventions for reparation and restoration. The Boards position is that in times of humanitarian crises professional silence and inaction is not neutrality but complicity. We hence extend an invitation to anyone interested to join a meeting for building solidarity and support through science education. The meeting is scheduled on Wednesday, August 27th from 12.30 to13.30 in Room Spisehuset at the ESERA 2025 Conference venue in Copenhagen. To sign up, email: [email protected]. The meeting is not part of the scientific programme, and it is initiated by a collective of ESERA members, which is united in their commitment to upholding the following fundamental values: the pursuit of knowledge, the protection of academic autonomy, and the responsibility to serve life and collective flourishing through science education. With care & hope on behalf of the ESERA Board, Lucy Avraamidou, President tinanantsou.blogspot.gr TDT | Geneva Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com Multiple states slam new plastic pollution treaty draft Geneva, Switzerland Multiple countries at a UN meeting aimed at finalising a landmark global treaty against plastic pollution slammed the new draft text issued Wednesday as the talks descended into disarray. With 30 hours left for the 184 countries attending to agree on a way forward, nations one by one took the floor to reject the proposed text put forward by the talks chair. While the more ambitious nations blasted the dearth of legally binding action, oil-producing states from across the aisle said red lines had been crossed for them, too. After talks chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso presented a new draft, with Thursdays deadline approaching, matters quickly unravelled. The European Union, Panama, Chile, Mexico and Colombia were among the delegations which rejected the proposed text. Panama said the goal was to end plastic pollution, not get a political arrangement. TOKYO, Aug 14 (News On Japan) - During the Obon holiday, Shinjukus Kabukicho To-Yoko area has drawn large numbers of young people, prompting Tokyo authorities to issue warnings. On August 12th at around 11 p.m., the streets leading into the To-Yoko area were crowded, with groups sitting on sidewalks and even spilling into the roadway. Some jumped over barriers installed to prevent loitering in the plaza, joining others inside. These so-called To-Yoko kids included a woman who said she was 20 and visited almost daily, relying on the area for food and shelter and never returning home. Inside the barriers, a woman climbed onto a lion statue and was cautioned by security, while a man spoke shirtless nearby. Police entered the enclosed area to warn the youth, while many onlookers stood outside the barriers just to see the scene. Visitors came from as far as Gunma, Ibaraki, and even Kyoto, with one high school student explaining that they had seen To-Yoko on TV and wanted to experience it firsthand. Some described it as unsafe but vibrant, while others admitted they came out of curiosity and stayed for weeks, gradually forming friendships. Authorities warn that the area has seen repeated incidents involving sexual exploitation and drug overdoses. In response, Tokyo has produced awareness videos targeting youth about the risks and crimes linked to To-Yoko. A 17-year-old high school student spending the night there after missing the last train called it smelly, dirty, and dangerous, citing the presence of drug dealers. To provide support, Tokyo operates a Kabukicho consultation center called Kimi Mamo, which can receive over 50 young visitors a day during summer. Officials say they take special care during the holiday period to handle cases before they escalate. Although the facility faced problems such as arrests for indecent acts after its opening in 2024, revised rules have since been implemented. In May 2024, the consultation space was expanded significantly, strengthening support measures and continuing to warn young visitors during the summer break. Ask ChatGPT Source: FNN TORONTO, Aug. 14, 2025 /CNW/ - Today marks the official national launch of EH!, a first-of-its-kind Canadian social network designed to give every town, city, and community a digital heartbeat. Built to bring people together through authentic, locally focused content, EH! aims to amplify real voices, support small businesses, and encourage tourism across the country. A New Kind of Social Network Black Maple Trading Co. (CNW Group/TrailMix Technologies Inc.) Explore Magazine (CNW Group/TrailMix Technologies Inc.) EH! is a mobile-first app that swaps algorithms and viral-chasing for meaningful, community-driven storytelling. Every Canadian town and city gets its own hub where locals and visitors can share stories, discover hidden gems, and connect through place-based posts. From farmers' markets to music festivals, EH! makes it easy to see what's happening nearby and to share your own slice of Canadian life in real time. Proudly Canadian Merch Partnership Leading the list of launch partners is Black Maple Trading Co., EH!'s official merch supplier. Based in Montreal, Black Maple Trading Co. offers apparel that is designed and produced in Canada, along with a premium Made in Canada line. They will host the official EH! shop set to launch in the next few weeks and collaborate on seasonal drops, with every piece featuring co-branded hangtags. This partnership combines EH!'s community-first spirit with Black Maple's reputation for premium, Canadian-designed apparel, ensuring fans can wear their pride in style. More Canadian Collaborations Alongside Black Maple Trading Co., partners include Explore Magazine Inspiring travel and outdoor storytelling through in-app contests and events. "We've built EH! to be a digital gathering place for every Canadian community," says Jess Glowacki, founder of EH!. "Working with partners like Black Maple Trading Co. and Explore Magazine means our commitment to Canadian culture doesn't stop at the appit's woven into the merch people wear." Availability EH! is now available for free on iOS and Android. Canadians and visitors alike can join the movement to share stories, support local businesses, and explore more of the country they call home. About Black Maple Trading - Find out more about their story here: https://blackmapletrading.com/pages/our-story SOURCE TrailMix Technologies Inc. Jess Glowacki, Founder & CEO, [email protected], www.ehnow.ca Kicking off this summer in various cities across the country, this national initiative is rooted in a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves the tools to succeed in school. The campaign, first launched during the pandemic in 2020, has since grown exponentially, reaching over 2,400 children in 2024 and now expanding to include new cities such as Guelph, Cambridge, and Winnipeg in 2025. "No child should feel left behind because of financial hardship," said Hassaan Sheikh, Special Projects Manager at Islamic Relief Canada. "Education is a right, not a privilege. This campaign is about empowering students and easing the burden on parents struggling to make ends meet." In collaboration with local charities and schools, Islamic Relief Canada will distribute customized backpacks filled with age-appropriate supplies, including: Backpacks Pencil cases Pencils, highlighters, and markers Notebooks and lined paper Scissors, glue sticks, and rulers Water bottles and calculators These supplies are carefully curated to ensure students have what they need for a strong academic start. Select distribution events will also feature community lunches, fun activities for children, and interactive spaces for families, creating joyful gatherings that reinforce dignity and hope as families prepare for the school year ahead Supporting Communities Through Local Partnerships The campaign is made possible through partnerships with community organizations and schools serving vulnerable populations. Rights holders are identified through these trusted networks to ensure supplies reach those most in need. Media Availability Islamic Relief Canada representatives will be available for interviews at several distribution events nationwide (dates and locations to be confirmed). Media outlets are encouraged to attend to learn more about this initiative and speak with volunteers, families, and organizers. About Islamic Relief Canada Islamic Relief Canada is a registered charity that works with communities to strengthen their resilience and provide emergency aid, sustainable development, and support for vulnerable groups in over 30 countries, including here at home in Canada. Guided by the values of compassion and social justice, Islamic Relief Canada believes in a world where no one has to suffer from poverty or injustice. SOURCE Islamic Relief Canada For any media inquiries please contact Alejandra Pabon at [email protected] or [email protected] Proceeds from every bag of candy sold during the Phantasia experience at the Eaton Centre support SickKids TORONTO, Aug. 14, 2025 /CNW/ - This August, HARIBO is bringing a fantastical world of imagination to life at the CF Toronto Eaton Centre with The World of Phantasia, an immersive pop-up experience inspired by HARIBO's newly launched Phantasia candy in Canada just in time for back-to-school season. More than just a sweet escape, the activation will directly support The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Canada's most research-intensive hospital and the largest centre dedicated to improving children's health in the country. For every bag of HARIBO candy purchased at the activation, all proceeds will go to support the Child Life Program at SickKids helping kids and families cope with the challenges of hospitalization through play, education, and emotional support. SickKids (CNW Group/HARIBO) From August 19 to 24, visitors can step into HARIBO's World of Phantasia a vibrant, candy-coloured universe filled with interactive drawing stations, colourful displays, and family friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy free candy samples, and have the chance to design their own Phantasia creature, brought to life through AI technology. It's a sweet and imaginative way to kick off the back-to-school season. "We're thrilled to offer families a space where imagination and kindness collide," said Mareike Temmen, Head of Marketing at HARIBO. "The World of Phantasia celebrates creativity, community, and giving back all core to the HARIBO spirit. We're proud to support SickKids and help make a difference in the lives of children and their families, especially through the Child Life Program, which brings joy and comfort during some of their toughest moments." SickKids Patient Ambassadors are invited to attend the activation and experience its magic, while celebrating the meaningful impact each donation makes. "Partnerships like this help bring joy to children while raising crucial funds for the future of children's health and wellbeing," said Julie Garcia Sjogrim, Vice President, Corporate & Community Partnerships at SickKids Foundation. "We're grateful to HARIBO for their commitment to supporting the Child Life Program, which plays such an important role in the patient experience." The activation comes at a time when families are gearing up for a new school year, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy some last-minute fun, connect with community, and do good. Whether you're grabbing a treat for your child's lunchbox or looking for a feel-good weekend activity, HARIBO's World of Phantasia is a must-visit experience for families to close off the summer! Event Details: Where: CF Toronto Eaton Centre (Level 2, near Alo) When: August 1924, 2025 (mall hours) Free entry candy available for purchase with proceeds to SickKids About HARIBO HARIBO is the world's leading manufacturer of gummy candy, most famous for our classic Goldbears. Through our fun and delicious treats, which are available in more than 120 countries, we seek to bring people together and celebrate moments of childlike happiness. Established in 1920, HARIBO is the acronym that comprises our founder's name, Hans Riegel, and the city in which the company was born (Bonn, Germany): HAns RIegel BOnn. We now employ nearly 7,000 colleagues and operate across 33 locations and 16 production sites in 11 countries. We remain a proudly independent business, free of shareholder pressure, so we can make decisions for the long-term and keep making the world a little happier for decades to come. About SickKids Foundation SickKids Foundation raises funds on behalf of The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and has raised more than $3 billion since 1972. Thanks to the generosity of the community, it is the largest charitable funder of child health care, research and learning in Canada. This incredible philanthropy has helped fuel advancements in paediatric health and contributed to SickKids' Newsweek ranking as one of the top two specialized paediatric hospitals in the world for four consecutive years. In 2025, the Foundation joins the Hospital in celebrating 150 Years Strong. Join the celebration at SickKids150.com. Media Contact: Tara MacPherson: [email protected], 905-870-1771 Maxwell Johnston: [email protected], 416-209-1039 SOURCE HARIBO Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva speaks at the launch ceremony of Sovereign Brazil initiative held in Brasilia, Brazil, Aug. 13, 2025. Brazil on Wednesday launched a package of measures to support exporters hit by a 50 percent tariff imposed by the U.S. government. The initiative, called Sovereign Brazil, provides 30 billion reais (about 5.562 billion U.S. dollars) in affordable loans, tax breaks and other measures, prioritizing small businesses and those dealing in perishable foods. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua) BRASILIA, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Brazil on Wednesday launched a package of measures to support exporters hit by a 50 percent tariff imposed by the U.S. government. The initiative, called Sovereign Brazil, provides 30 billion reais (about 5.562 billion U.S. dollars) in affordable loans, tax breaks and other measures, prioritizing small businesses and those dealing in perishable foods. It also facilitates public procurement from affected rural and agro-industrial sectors, modernizes the export guarantee system, and reactivates a program to refund taxes in the production chain. In a speech during the announcement, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva rejected the U.S. government's arguments for imposing tariffs on Brazilian products. "It is important to say that we cannot become nervous, apprehensive, or overly excited when there is a crisis. Crises exist so that we can create new things. The unpleasant thing is that there are no justified reasons for imposing tariffs on Brazil," the president said. While the tariff is unjustified, Brazil will not apply reciprocal measures for the time being, he added. "We are not announcing reciprocity. Take note of how good we are at negotiating. Initially, we don't want to do anything that would justify worsening our relationship," he added. He referred to one of the reasons the White House gave for imposing tariffs: that putting Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro on trial for attempting to overthrow the government to stay in power was a human rights violation. "Brazil had no reason to be taxed, and we will not accept any accusations that we do not respect human rights in Brazil and that our trial is being conducted arbitrarily," Lula said. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva speaks at the launch ceremony of Sovereign Brazil initiative in Brasilia, Brazil, Aug. 13, 2025. Brazil on Wednesday launched a package of measures to support exporters hit by a 50 percent tariff imposed by the U.S. government. The initiative, called Sovereign Brazil, provides 30 billion reais (about 5.562 billion U.S. dollars) in affordable loans, tax breaks and other measures, prioritizing small businesses and those dealing in perishable foods. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua) Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (R) shakes hands with Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad at the launch ceremony of Sovereign Brazil initiative in Brasilia, Brazil, Aug. 13, 2025. Brazil on Wednesday launched a package of measures to support exporters hit by a 50 percent tariff imposed by the U.S. government. The initiative, called Sovereign Brazil, provides 30 billion reais (about 5.562 billion U.S. dollars) in affordable loans, tax breaks and other measures, prioritizing small businesses and those dealing in perishable foods. (Photo by Lucio Tavora/Xinhua) This photo taken on Aug. 13, 2025 shows a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) Staff members harvest vegetables at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 13, 2025. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) A technician from Ningbo City checks the growth of lettuce at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 13, 2025. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) A staff member harvests vegetables at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 13, 2025. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) A staff member cleans a planting bed at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 13, 2025. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) A staff member prepares vegetable juice for visitors at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Aug. 13, 2025. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) This photo taken on Aug. 13, 2025 shows vegetables growing at a factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The factory-styled smart farm in Kuqa City stands as a flagship project of paired assistance program financed by Ningbo City in east China's Zhejiang Province. The factory enables stable year-round crop production via intelligently controlled temperature, humidity, light and nutrient solutions. As a milestone of Ningbo-Kuqa collaboration, the project has adopted soilless cultivation technologies and devices provided by companies in Ningbo to grow premium agricultural products. (Xinhua/Liu Jiaqi) VIENTIANE, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Laos' Ministry of Finance expected a positive economic outlook for the third quarter of 2025, highlighting strong potential in the tourism sector and booming investment, especially in electricity, infrastructure construction, and other key areas. The Lao Statistics Bureau under the Lao Ministry of Finance convened a consultation meeting on Wednesday, bringing together officials from the ministry, representatives from the Lao central bank, and other relevant stakeholders, according to the ministry's report on Thursday. The meeting focused on discussing the results of data calculation and compilation for the first half of 2025, aiming to draft a report on the economic and social situation. The center has carried out the calculation, evaluation, and estimation of the country's total economic value, while also presenting key data on economic and social trends. This work relies on indicators such as gross domestic product (GDP), core macroeconomic data, and social statistics gathered from administrative systems, surveys, and other sources. According to the report, Laos' GDP is estimated to grow by 4.5 percent in the first six months of 2025, the same as in the corresponding period last year. The agricultural sector grew by 3.3 percent, up from 2.9 percent in the first half of 2024. The industrial sector grew by 4.6 percent, compared to 4.4 percent last year, while the service sector grew by 4.7 percent, slightly lower than the 5.2 percent growth recorded in the first half of 2024. In addition, the economic outlook for Laos in the third quarter of 2025 remains positive, with strong potential in the tourism sector and growing investment. The center forecasts GDP growth of 4.0 percent, with the agricultural sector expected to grow by 3.7 percent, industry by 3.6 percent, and services by 4.3 percent. However, the economic outlook remains uncertain due to potential risks from global trade tensions, political conflicts, natural disasters, and epidemics, which could impact production and services, said the report. BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition opened in Beijing on Thursday to honor overseas Chinese contributions in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The exhibition, which features nearly 400 artifacts, is being held at the Overseas Chinese History Museum of China to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in the wars. It aims to pay tribute to overseas Chinese for their selfless support for the Chinese nation when it was at risk of falling apart. It presents a panoramic view of the indelible achievements of overseas Chinese in the wars. It is the first time that the museum has organized a comprehensive physical exhibition on this subject since it opened in 2014. The museum has also partnered with the Guangdong Provincial Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese to host photography exhibitions in multiple cities in the province. Ramapough Lenape Chief Dwaine Perry was illegally ousted in May, according to a lawsuit. Courtesy of Lydia Cotz The leader of the Ramapough Lenape Nation in Bergen County has sued rival tribal members for allegedly staging an illegal takeover of the council, ousting him, having him arrested, and seizing control of the tribes nonprofit arm. Chief Dwaine Perry claims in court papers that rival members violated the tribes 2008 Constitution when they voted in May to suspend him and later removed him and other council members without proper authority. After his removal, Perry was arrested at tribal headquarters in Mahwah for allegedly trespassing, court records show. Perry says his removal was based on outdated 2004 bylaws that allow non-council members to vote, according to the lawsuit, filed in Superior Court of Bergen County on Aug. 7. Tribal Council members did not respond to calls and emails seeking comment on the lawsuit. The Ramapough Lenape Nation is recognized by New Jersey and New York as an American Indian tribe. The Tribal Council oversees the Wolf Clan in Mahwah, the Turtle Clan in Ringwood and the Deer Clan in Hillburn, New York. After his suspension, Perry was charged on July 22 with criminal trespass when he returned to the Ramapough Lenape Community Center in the 100 block of Stag Hill Road, according to court records. A source close to the case claims Perry was arrested when he returned to replace pictures of himself, which had been taken off a wall after he was ousted. The Ramapough Lenape Community Center on Stag Hill Road in Mahwah. Google Maps Police issued Perry a summons to appear in court and released him. The charge, which is a disorderly persons offense, remains pending in municipal court. Perry is suing rival members for allegedly defaming him after he suggested their finances should be looked at, said his attorney, Lydia Cotz. This was an illegal coup. We believe that the court will reinstate Chief Perry, Cotz said Tuesday. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for Sept. 12 in Hackensack. The suit alleges that during the May 24 meeting, individuals without legal standing and possibly some who werent even enrolled tribal members were permitted to participate in the vote to remove Perry as chief. A disciplinary hearing on the matter was scheduled for June 1, but Perry was hospitalized the day before and says he notified the defendants, according to the suit. But the rival members proceeded anyway, voting to permanently remove Perry, ban him from tribal affairs, and replace the council with their own supporters, naming Vincent Mann as chief, according to the suit. The lawsuit says the remaining council members were removed without notice or hearings, and that the new leadership took over the Ramapough Mountain Indians, Inc., the tribes nonprofit entity, along with its funds. Perry further alleges the rival members defamed him by publicly claiming that he diverted funds, obstructed elections and abused his office. Cotz said there is no evidence of fiscal wrongdoing by Perry and no documentation supporting any allegations of fraud. Perry also claims rival members falsely reported to Mahwah police that he was barred from tribal property leading to his arrest for trespassing last month. The suit seeks a court order voiding the removals, and restoring Perry and other council members to their positions. The complaint also asks a judge to bar the rival members from controlling the nonprofit, order an accounting of tribal funds, and award monetary damages to Perry and other council members who were removed. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. A Pennsylvania man is accused of sending sexually explicit photos of himself to a teenager and trying to meet the girl at a New Jersey park, officials with the Camden County Prosecutors Office said. Benjamin J. Wann, 34, of Cochranville, Pennsylvania was charged with first-degree attempting to manufacture child sexual abuse material, second-degree attempted criminal sexual assault of a minor, fourth-degree criminal sexual contact with a minor and other offenses. Wann is accused of communicating with a teenager who appeared to be a 14-year-old girl on a chat application, but in reality was an undercover detective from the Camden County Prosecutors Office, officials said. Wann sent sexually explicit photos of himself to, what he thought was a teenager and asked for nude photos of the girl, officials said. He arranged to meet the teenager at a park for sex, but the meeting never happened, according to authorities. Wann was arrested on Tuesday in Newark, Delaware and is being held at the Howard R. Young Correctional Facility in Delaware awaiting extradition to New Jersey. Wann was not listed in online court records Thursday and an attorney was not able to be reached for comment. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matthew Enuco may be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com. Sung Kang as Han Lue and Lucas Black as Sean Boswell in "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift." Universal Pictures Sung Kang made his Fast & Furious debut in the 2006 movie The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. And this month, the actor, known for playing Han Lue in the big-screen action franchise, is asking New Jersey locals to join him as he films his latest movie, Drifter. Kang will be filming Saturday, Aug. 23 and Sunday, Aug. 24 at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown as part of Legends of Drift. The event is billed as a drifting competition, car show and movie set all rolled into one celebration of car culture. Drifting, unlike car racing, is centered on choreographed swerving and sliding. The sport got its start in Japan. The drifting series Formula Drift has called Raceway Park and other local tracks home. Kang is both starring in and directing Drifter, which he calls his dream project. To keep the culture authentic, I tapped a few of my friends to help, he said in an Instagram video, listing people from the drifting world who will be part of the production. One is pro driver Adam LZ, who is playing a role in the movie. Legends of Drift is a ticketed event. (Tickets are $47.25 for a single day and $83.25 for both days.) If youve ever loved drifting, car culture, or just that feeling of being part of something bigger, I hope youll come out and join us, Kang said in his post. Who knows maybe youll even make it into the movie." Kang, 53, played the perennially snacking character Han Lue in the third Fast & Furious movie The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift." He originated the character in the 2002 movie Better Luck Tomorrow. Both films were helmed by Justin Lin, who went on to direct Kang in the Fast & Furious movies Fast & Furious (2009), Fast Five (2011), Fast & Furious 6 (2013) and F9 (2021). Kang made his own directorial debut in 2022 with the horror comedy Shaky Shivers. His TV roles include John Mak, the assistant U.S. attorney in the Starz series Power and Power Book II: Ghost, and The Fifth Brother in the Disney+ Star Wars series Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022). In 2020, Kang started a YouTube channel and podcast called Sungs Garage." Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. 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. MOSCOW, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Russia and Ukraine on Thursday each exchanged 84 prisoners captured during their ongoing conflict, the Russian Defense Ministry said. The freed Russian service members were in Belarus and would be transported to the medical facilities of the Russian military for treatment and rehabilitation, it said. The latest prisoner exchanges between the conflicting parties were mediated by the United Arab Emirates, according to the ministry. A New Jersey man died while heading to New York City to meet up with an AI chatbot he'd been exchanging Facebook messages with. Bobby Olivier A New Jersey man died while trying to visit an artificial intelligence chatbot hed met on Facebook, believing it was a real woman, according to a report. Thongbue Wongbandue, 76, died March 28 after falling and injuring his head and neck in a parking lot on Rutgers Universitys campus in New Brunswick, according to Reuters. Season 2 of the Disney+ series Daredevil: Born Again hasnt even premiered yet, but the stars are already talking about season 3. During a July panel at GalaxyCon, Charlie Cox, who plays the titular vigilante, referred to the upcoming second season as the shows final chapter. But Vincent DOnofrio, who plays Wilson Fisk/Kingpin, thinks theres more in store. Good chance there will be a third [season], DOnofrio wrote via X on Tuesday, August 12, in response to a fan. The next day, he tweeted that Cox thinks the same thing, despite his final season comment at GalaxyCon. I believe Charlie meant the last season we actually shot meaning the second season. Yet he used the term final season so its a bit confusing, DOnofrio wrote. But Charlie and i have discussed and we both agree theres a very good chance for a third season. Daredevil: Born Again is a revival of Daredevil, which aired on Netflix from 2015-2018. Season 1 picked up several years after the events of the original series, and one year after blind lawyer Matt Murdock hung up his Daredevil mask. READ MORE: Disney+ cancels iconic TV series Season 2, which is slated to premiere on Disney+ in March 2026, will be a resistance tale, one of the shows directors Aaron Moorhead told The Hollywood Reporter in April. Mayor Wilson Fisk has assembled an Anti-Vigilante task force, and Daredevil and his allies must fight back. Theres a building of a resistance, so that is the kernel of where season two is going to go, Moorhead said. Mayor Fisk has now become Kingpin again, but with New York in his grasp. And then theres this vigilante thing that now has to go completely underground. So, thats where we start, and were going to unfold all of that very, very quickly. Season 1 of Daredevil: Born Again is available to stream on Disney+. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/. Gaten Matarazzo will appear in the fifth and final season of "Stranger Things" coming this November. Bruce Glikas | WireImage Call it the meeting of the Matarazzos. Two New Jersey pop culture institutions who have the same name recently shared the same air for the first time. Since 2016, Gaten Matarazzo, 22, has been known for playing Hawkins, Indiana kid Dustin Henderson in Stranger Things. The actor, who grew up in Little Egg Harbor Township, has the same last name as another actor who got her start as a child. Heather Matarazzo, 42, had her breakout role as Dawn Wiener, an 11-year-old New Jersey middle school student who cant seem to catch a break. Matarazzos Dawn is the heart of the beloved 1995 movie Welcome to the Dollhouse from Jerseys own writer-director Todd Solondz. The two Matarazzos are not related. But that didnt stop them from taking a selfie upon their first meeting, to much applause from Instagram. Finally got to meet my son, Heather Matarazzo captioned the photo. What an absolute delight he is. "Finally got to meet my 'son,'" actor Heather Matarazzo said after taking a photo with Gaten Matarazzo. Heather Matarazzo via Instagram They may not be in the same family, but both Matarazzos can be seen in Netflix shows. Gaten Matarazzo returns as Dustin in the fifth and final season of Netflixs Stranger Things, which is rolling out in three parts this Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas and New Years Eve. Heather Matarazzo currently has a guest role as Judi Spannagel in the second season of the Netflix series Wednesday, starring Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams. Matarazzos film roles include Lilly Moscovitz in The Princess Diaries (2001) and The Princess Diaries 2 (2004) opposite Millburns Anne Hathaway. A Princess Diaries 3 is confirmed to be on the way. Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. 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. Newark Public Library Executive Director Christian Zabriskie was fired without explanation by library trustees on Aug. 8. Zabriskie is seen here during an announcement on Juy 19, 2023, two weeks after he was hired. Steve Strunsky | NJ Advance Media For NJ.com Services, operations and capital planning for the Newark Public Library will not be impacted while its leaders search for an interim executive director after firing Christian Zabriskie from the librarys top post, its board vice president said Thursday All of that is in the very capable hands of the leadership team, Rosemary Steinbaum, vice president of the Board of Trustees, told NJ Advance Media. The community and our partners in the community are our first concern. Steinbaum said she and others were deeply engaged in the search for interim and permanent replacements for Zabriskie, who was named to the $180,000 post in July 2023. The leadership team at the library has stepped up in extraordinary ways, collaborating, cooperating with each other, with board, with the staff, said Steinbaum, adding that no timeframe had been set naming an interim or new permanent director. The board voted 5-0 with three abstentions and one absence during a brief special meeting last week held for the sole purpose of terminating Zabriskies tenure after two years. Executive Director Christian Zabriskie is hereby being provided 90 days notice of termination effective Nov. 6th, 2025, the boards president, Aisha Cooper, read from a resolution the board then approved. Effective immediately, Mr. Zabriskie is being placed on paid administrative leave and shall not take any official action on behalf of the Newark Public Library. A recording of the three-minute public portion of the meeting during which trustees voted was posted on the librarys Facebook page. The vote was reported Tuesday by TapInto. No one said why Zabriskie was being let go, and Cooper did not respond to requests for comment this week. Zabriskie sat silently at the dais with the trustees without saying a word, then left without saying goodbye. He could not be reached for comment. Centered around its 1901 Main Branch opposite Harriet Tubman Square, the library system consists of seven locations, providing books, magazines and other publications for on-site and on loan use, computers and internet access, plus educational programming, public forums, screenings and art and historic exhibitions for residents of the states largest city. The library also provides referrals for employment and social services, and serves as a daytime refuge for unhoused residents. Scholars are drawn from outside Newark to the Philip Roth Room in the Main Branch, which houses the acclaimed novelist and Newark natives personal collection of books and belongings. Zabriskies tenure in Newark included presiding over creation of resource rooms for people with hearing and visual impairments, a celebration of the citys LGBTQ+ community, and the librarys role in a citywide literacy program announced by Mayor Ras J. Baraka two weeks after Zabriskie was hired. Trustees had expressed frustration with Zabriskies performance in recent months, including what they saw as a lack of transparency on an expansion project at the Springfield Branch, and failure to provide advance copies of a new labor contract before the July meeting they were asked to approve it, TapInto reported. Union employees generated unflattering headlines for the library last fall, with public appeals to the City Council for additional funds during Newarks 2024 municipal budget process. Union members complained about low pay, staff vacancies, and crumbling and closed branches. At the councils urging, the administration came up with another $1 million, bringing the citys contribution last year to $12 million, or about 70% of the librarys $17 million annual budget. The rest comes mainly from grants, individual and corporate donations. Zabriskie, who previously directed the Onondaga County Library in upstate New York, was Newarks 13th director since its public library was created in 1889, built on what had been a private collection of the Newark Library Association dating back to 1847. And while the length of Zabriskies time in charge is well below the 10.5-year average for the position, he was the fourth director to serve in the post since the mayor took office in 2014 and the third one hired under Baraka. Under the librarys bylaws, the executive director is hired and fired by the board of trustees. Newarks mayor is an ex-officio member of the board who appoints seven of the boards nine members and can designate an eighth trustee to serve as his or her representative. The ninth trustee is a designee of the Newark superintendent of schools, who, like the mayor, also has a seat on the board by right of his position. The five trustees who vote to remove Zabriskie were Cooper and Steinbaum, board treasurer Jason Ballard, Robert J. Austin ll, and Miguel Rodriguez. The three who abstained were Sharnee Brown, Lauren Wells, and Javier Nazario, Leons designee. The absent trustee was Jacqueline Quiles, Barakas designee. Spokespeople for the mayor and superintendent did not say whether their boss supported Zabriskies termination. Outgoing Newark Public Library Executive Director Christian Zabrinskie, at left, closed the book on his 2-year tenure during an Aug. 8, 2025 meeting, when the library Board of Trustees voted to place him on paid leave immediately and fire him effective Nov. 6. Newark Public Library via Facebook Nobody knows Jersey better than N.J.com. Sign up to get breaking news alerts straight to your inbox. Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com Hey there New Jersey! Heres your audio update highlighting the BBQ king of N.J., a former employee of a catholic church accused of stealing $1.5 million, and a new report that ranks two public universities in New Jersey as some of the highest value in the country. Listen by clicking the play button above. This audio presentation is an editorially-curated selection of stories, selected by an editor, and then summarized and read aloud by artificial intelligence. Some variations in pronunciation, tone or diction may result. We want to know what you think! All feedback is valuable. After youve listened, take our 3-question survey here to let us know what you think. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Wawa will soon open its first-ever travel center but it wont be in New Jersey, one of the first states to house the popular convenience store chain that started more than 200 years ago. The chain known for its hoagies and coffee will open an 8,000-square-foot travel center in Hope Mills, North Carolina, on Aug. 28, according to a company release. California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) tore into President Donald Trump on Thursday as he declared that his state will move forward with a partisan redistricting proposal. While speaking at the Japanese American National Museum, Newsom announced that he plans to proceed with his own redrawing campaign in an attempt to pass new lines that would be favorable to the Democratic Party ahead of the 2026 midterms. His proposal, titled the Election Rigging Response Act, comes as a direct response to a Republican effort in Texas to add up to five safe House seats in a new congressional map. Democratic lawmakers have fled the state to block a vote on the strategy, which is backed by Trump. In his remarks, Newsom called for a special election on Nov. 4 for California voters to decide on new maps. If passed, he added that they would take effect if Texas successfully enacts its proposal, and will then remain in place until the 2030 census. We know what Donald Trump knows, Newsom told the audience. Hes going to lose... Why else would he try to rig the system? Newsom went on to call Trump a failed president and the most unpopular in modern history. He pointed to the presence of U.S. Border Patrol agents, who detained at least one person, outside of the news conference, multiple outlets reported. Who else sends ICE [at the] same time were having a conversation like this? Newsom said. Someone whos weak. Someone whos broken. Someone whose weakness is masquerading as strength. Newsom: "He's a failed president. Who else sends ICE at the same time we're having a conversation like this? Someone who's weak. Someone who's broken. Someone whose weakness is masquerading as strength." pic.twitter.com/QWzcxmoqFw Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 14, 2025 Newsom pledged to meet fire with fire, saying that Trump tried to light democracy on fire on Jan. 6, and is now once again trying to rig the system." He doesnt play by a different set of rules he doesnt believe in the rules. As a consequence, we need to disabuse ourselves of the way things have been done, Newsom said. Its not good to just hold hands, have a candlelight vigil and talk about the way the world should be. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, he continued. While the Democrats proposed California maps have yet to be released, they are anticipated to come to light on Friday. Lawmakers are expected to quickly approve them next week, given Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers of the state Legislature. State lawmakers are also required to officially declare the special election. Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back, Newsom, who is widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender, said alongside other Democrats. Meanwhile, Texas Republicans signaled that they may end their legislatures current session on Friday and immediately call a new one to continue pushing the map. CNN reported that Texas Democrats met privately on Tuesday to discuss next steps as they decide whether to return. The GOP-led effort has since sparked a nationwide standoff, with Newsom and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) looking to propose his own redistricting plan in response. It remains unclear how voters will ultimately respond to Californias plan, given it is a way to sidestep an independent commission that has been given the power to draw the states maps since 2010. In recent weeks, Newsom, using his press office account, has also taken aim at Trump on social media as he hinted toward his official announcement. 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!), the account wrote on Tuesday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. The San Francisco Giants have signed JT Brubaker to a minor league deal, according to the MLB.com transaction log. The Yankees designated Brubaker for assignment last week. The 31-year-old was out of options, cleared waivers and became a free agent. Brubaker was acquired by the Yankees in March 2024 from the Pittsburgh Pirates. He spent that season recovering from Tommy John surgery, splitting eight rehab appearances across the minor league levels. He pitched 16 innings for the Yankees this year, posting a 3.38 ERA over 12 games. Brubaker was designated for assignment last week as a corresponding move for Mark Leiter Jr.s return from the injured list. Jake Bird was also optioned down to Triple-A, making space for Yerry De Los Santos. On his new deal, Brukbaker will report to the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription. Bridget Hyland may be reached at bhyland@njadvancemedia.com. Kim Keon-hee, wife of South Korea's former ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol, on Thursday arrived at a special counsel's office to be questioned over corruption allegations involving the ex-presidential couple. #SouthKorea #KimKeonhee #YoonSukyeol Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Watertown, NY (13601) Today A shower or two around the area early, then partly cloudy during the afternoon. High 68F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%.. Tonight Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 51F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. by Maya Majueran Building on President Xi Jinping's 2023 proposal for the Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Initiative, the Chinese government has now called for the creation of a global AI cooperation organization. In July, Chinese Premier Li Qiang announced the proposal during his address at the opening ceremony of the 2025 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, a three-day event held in Shanghai. China's call comes amid intensifying competition among major global countries at a time when efforts to regulate AI remain fragmented. Despite mounting geopolitical tensions, there is a shared international interest in addressing risks posed by AI, including machine hallucinations, deepfakes and unchecked proliferation. An urgent need exists to build a consensus on how to strike a sustainable balance between technological advancement and security. As AI becomes embedded in every aspect of daily life, including public services, healthcare, finance and national defence, societies face the dual challenge of fostering innovation while managing complex risks. Addressing these challenges requires inclusive dialogue among governments, industry leaders, researchers and civil society. The goal must be to ensure that AI develops responsibly, ethically and in alignment with the public interest and global stability. Much like the global financial architecture that has long been dominated by Western hegemony, there is increasing recognition that AI governance should follow a more multipolar trajectory. A balanced approach is crucial to prevent any single bloc from unilaterally shaping the future of this transformative technology. China envisions the proposed organization as a comprehensive, inclusive platform for international AI cooperation. It aims to foster broad participation that reflects the diverse priorities of countries across the globe. A key objective is to address the growing "AI divide" -- the technological gap between advanced economies and developing countries. Without coordinated action, the objective will be further marginalized in the accelerating global AI race, deepening existing inequalities. The initiative emphasizes pragmatic, action-oriented collaboration to translate shared objectives into tangible outcomes. China seeks to unite countries to promote innovation, share technological expertise, and coordinate AI-related policies in a spirit of mutual benefit. The proposed organization would also work to unlock the transformative potential of AI across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and industry. China hopes this will catalyse more equitable global development, fostering inclusive growth, shared prosperity and stability in an increasingly interconnected digital world. The fragmentation in global AI governance stems in large part from the dominance of a few powerful countries pursuing narrow national interests. For decades, the West has disproportionately benefited from technological progress. However, the emergence of China, India, Singapore and other innovation-driven Global South countries is beginning to challenge this status quo. Now is the time for the international community to align efforts toward establishing a robust, consensus-based framework for global AI governance, one that equitably serves the interests of all countries. China is taking the lead by inviting interested countries to participate in shaping the proposed organization's structure and agenda. It is reaffirming its commitment to advancing both multilateral and bilateral cooperation -- a strategic yet inclusive approach. China's proposal signals a shift from passive participation to active leadership in global AI rulemaking. Its growing confidence in its AI capabilities, including large language models, facial recognition and industrial applications, positions it as a credible leader in this arena. China is also offering to share its technologies, resources, and insights with the international community. This includes providing training, infrastructure and technology transfer to support other countries. By doing so, China positions itself as a partner in equitable development and a counterbalance to Western dominance in AI. Its support for open-source development reflects a commitment to shared growth over control or profit, signaling a willingness to empower other countries, particularly in the Global South, through collaborative innovation. China has consistently promoted international cooperation in both software and hardware technologies, recognizing that addressing global AI challenges requires collective action. Through joint research, technical partnerships and knowledge exchange, China aims to democratize access to advanced tools, frameworks and platforms. This strategy aligns with China's broader vision of inclusive technological growth. It emphasizes key principles such as "AI for good," fairness, respect for national sovereignty, and the development of non-discriminatory global standards. Facilitating cross-border research collaboration is another major goal. By undertaking such efforts, China aims to reshape its image from a strategic rival to a constructive global partner. Yet a key question remains: can a truly inclusive AI governance framework be built in a deeply divided geopolitical landscape? Like it or not, China's approach, especially its willingness to share knowledge and promote open-source collaboration, is gaining traction, particularly among Global South countries. These countries increasingly view China as a transparent and reliable partner, in contrast to traditional Western frameworks that often come with geopolitical conditions. China believes that by providing access to advanced AI tools, it can forge stronger political and economic ties through technology-driven diplomacy. Western powers, by contrast, tend to restrict AI access to preserve their strategic advantage and profit through technological concentration. As the AI arms race accelerates, the architecture of global technology governance is undergoing a profound transformation. China's latest proposal is more than a call for cooperation -- it is a strategic move to shape how AI is regulated, applied and understood globally. Ultimately, the success of this initiative will hinge on its reception, particularly among Global South countries. These countries will play a decisive role in determining whether a truly multipolar AI governance structure emerges or whether current Western-led frameworks continue to prevail. Editor's note: Maya Majueran currently serves as the director of Belt & Road Initiative Sri Lanka, an independent and pioneering organization with strong expertise in Belt and Road Initiative advice and support. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Xinhua News Agency. Jon Batiste is a Kenner native who went to St. Augustine High School and the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. He was a member of the Purp Meet a robotic antelope, which can provide accurate, reliable images and data for the study of Tibetan antelope behavior in China's Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. #GLOBALink Bideford College is celebrating a fantastic set of A Level and BTEC results with more than 40% of grades being awarded at the highest level. As a result of so many A* and A grades at A Level and plus BTEC Distinction* or Distinction achievements at the Athena Learning Trust school, several students have secured places at top universities and on prestigious apprenticeship programs. Henry Callaghan and Kristian Baxter both achieved three A* grades in chemistry, maths and physics, with Henry heading to Bristol University to study maths and Kristian set to study chemical engineering at Imperial College London. Above: Bideford sixth formers Egon Ross and Henry Callaghan plus (below) Josh Padam. Credit: Bideford College Matthew Cloke also excelled in the sciences, achieving an A* in maths and A grades in chemistry and physics - he will be studying physics at Bath. Demonstrating a flair for both humanities and languages, Daisy Williams earned an A* in sociology and As in French and English language, which will lead her to study French at Oxford. Above: Kristian Baxter achieved three A* grades and is set to study chemical engineering at Imperial College London, while (below) Matt Cloke will be studying physics at Bath. Credit: Bideford College. Credit: Bideford College Sam Robinson achieved an A* in physics and A's in geography and maths, securing his spot to study mechanical engineering at Manchester. Dan Bacon gained A in biology and psychology, a B in chemistry and will be studying medicine at Lancaster University. Finally, Egon Ross achieved straight As in biology, chemistry and maths and will be starting a degree apprenticeship in accounting. Above: Lily Haste picks up her A Level results at Bideford College. Credit: Bideford College Bideford College principal Dr Claire Ankers said: Today is a moment of real celebration. Our students have worked incredibly hard and its been a privilege to see their commitment, resilience and determination pay off. These results reflect not only academic achievement, but the personal growth and ambition we nurture at Bideford College. Were so proud of every single student and excited to see where their next steps will take them. Above: Mechanical engineering at Manchester University beckons for Bideford College student Sam Robinson, who gained an A* in physics and A grades in geography and maths. Credit: Bideford College READ NEXT: Popular Bideford College PE teacher is hanging up his whistle after three decades There were smiles all around at Shebbear College this morning (Thursday, August 14) as its upper sixth students celebrated an excellent set of A Level and BTEC results, with some truly standout individual achievements. Most have secured places at their first-choice university, with nearly half heading off to prestigious Russell Group institutions. The Class of 2025 will be studying a wide range of degree subjectsfrom STEM courses such as computer science, medicine, forensic science and chemistry, to politics and international relations, business, law, drama and theology. Students will be heading to top universities including the University of St Andrews, University of Exeter, University of Leeds, Durham University and the University of Bath. Above: Shebbear College students are taking up places at top universities after successful A Level results. Credit: Shebbear College In a particularly talented performing arts cohort, several students have earned places on specialist drama and music courses, including at RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) and BIMM Music Institute. Among the standout achievers were head of school Sebastian Crookes, from Holsworthy and deputy head of school Alice Hunkin, from Torrington, who both achieved an incredible four A* grades at A Level and have secured places at their chosen universities. Above: Shebbear College head Charlie Jenkins with Sebastian Crookes and Alice Hunkin, who both achieved four A* grades in their A Levels. Credit: Shebbear College Sebastian, who achieved the top grade in computer science, maths, physics and further maths, will be heading to the University of St Andrews to study computer science. Today marks a double celebration for him as its also his 18th birthday! Reflecting on the moment he opened his results, Sebastian said: I was shaking this morning and I couldnt believe it when I opened my envelope. I wasnt expecting to do quite as well as I did. I worked hard, but there were still some doubts in my mind. Its just overwhelming that I got the grades I did and Im so happy! A talented musician, Sebastian also holds Grade 8 in the piano and was a finalist in the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Young Musician Competition in 2024, performing at St Hildas College, Oxford. He added: Im actually taking my piano diploma in a few weeks, which is the equivalent to the first year recital at university. I love the piano so much and Im definitely going to keep playing at uni. Above: Alice Hunkin (left) achieved four A* grades and will be studying medicine after taking a gap year. Credit: Shebbear College Alice, who made the headlines two years ago when she was one of only a few pupils nationwide to gain 12 grade 9s at GCSE, gained four A* grades in biology, chemistry, maths and further maths. She will be taking a gap year before starting her medicine degree at the University of Leeds. She said: I was hoping to do quite well, but you never know what will happen on the day!. I wasnt expecting to get four A*s I also got 100% in Maths Paper 1 so Im happy with that! Other notable successes include Darcey Grey, from Bude, who will be studying politics and international relations at the University of Bath after achieving A* in English Literature, A in geography and A in economics. Henry Prickett from Werrington will be studying chemistry at Cardiff University and head of school, Lily Down from Winkleigh will be reading theology, ministry and mission at Durham University. Above: A delighted Beth Tibble will be going to the world-renowned RADA to study technical theatre and stage management. Credit: Shebbear College Performing arts scholar Beth Tibble secured a place to study technical theatre and stage management at the world-renowned RADA, following a successful application earlier this year, whilst fellow drama scholar William Pomroy - fondly remembered for his iconic role as Monsieur Thenardier in Shebbears production of Les Miserables - will be studying Drama at Bath Spa University. Talented musician Jon-Christopher Wright, an international student from Jamaica, will be reading popular music performance at BIMM University, the UKs newest university for the creative industries. Beth, who had unconditional offers from LAMDA and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama as well as RADA, said: Im really excited! The applications involved interviews and practical workshops and I was lucky enough to be able to choose between the three universities. I chose RADA as it had a really nice feel to it and I thought going with vibes was probably a good way to choose! Charlie Jenkins, head at Shebbear College, said: Im so proud of our Upper Sixth - it was brilliant to see so many happy faces this morning! Theyve worked incredibly hard across all their subjects and many have managed to balance their studies with sporting and musical commitments too. On top of that, theyve been fantastic role models for our younger pupils, which makes todays achievements even more special. Im delighted that so many have secured places at the universities of their choice and Im sure theyll go on to do amazing things. I hope theyll keep in touch and let us know how theyre getting on. A huge thank you also to our wonderful teachers, whove supported and encouraged them through their sixth form years. One of the joys of being a small school is that we get to know each pupil so well and its incredibly rewarding to see them heading off to the next exciting chapter in their lives. Above: Standout Shebbear College students Alice Hunkin and Sebastian Crookes with their proud families on A Level results day. Credit: Shebbear College Ilfracombe Academy students have achieved a four year high for A Level results with around a third of all grades at A* or A the highest percentage in recent history. The success means a huge 94% of students will be going to their first choice university, an increase from 83% last year. Individual sixth former successes at the school, which is part of Athena Learning Trust, included James Nevill, who achieved A* grades in chemistry and physics plus an A in maths and he will be studying physics with astrophysics at The University of Warwick. Zac Harper who achieved A* in physics, plus an A in chemistry and maths and will study mechanical and electrical engineering at The University of Bristol. Olivia Hopson achieved A* in geography, A in biology and A in photography and will study ecology and conservation at The University of Plymouth. Joseph Carter achieved three straight As in history, physics and sociology and will study law at Durham University. Noah McNamara also gained three A grades in history, politics and psychology and will study international relations at Kings College London. It was three A grades for Samuel Nuth too, in biology, chemistry and maths and he will study medicinal chemistry at Cardiff University. Ilfracombe Academy headteacher Steve Rogers said: These are the strongest results weve seen in years and we couldnt be prouder of our students and staff. But were not stopping here, our ambition is growing and were confident that next year will take us even further. With the progress were making, Ilfracombe Academy Sixth Form is on track to become one of the highest-performing in Devon. Head of sixth form, Nick Beesly, added: I am absolutely delighted that around one in three of the grades achieved by our students was an A* or A. I put this down to the students dreaming big, working hard and believing that they can compete with the best, regardless of background. READ NEXT: North Devon school praised for strong community values The academy sixth form has seen several new developments this past year, including an upgrade of its independent study room. This now offers a quiet, modern space that mirrors the learning environments found in top universities. With individual study booths, ample computer access and a calm atmosphere, it has quickly become a valued hub for focused learning. There is also the support of a dedicated independent study mentor, who helps students manage their time effectively and make the most of their study periods. Sixth formers at West Buckland School have been celebrating a successful end to their school careers with 45% gaining top A* or A grades on A Level results day. The school said nearly three quarters of all grades came in at A* to B and the pass rate was practically 100%, with results at all levels showing improvement over a three year period. Many students are now heading to their first-choice universities to study demanding courses. Above: The West Buckland School leavers of 2025 gather for one last picture on A Level results day. Credit: West Buckland School Both Georgia and Luke obtained an outstanding four A* grades each and will now study chemistry at Durham and aerospace engineering at Bristol respectively. Fatima has a place on the highly competitive economics course at London School of Economics and Political Science. Sam and Milly are two of the highest achieving A Level artists in the country, with Sam heading off to the prestigious Camberwell College of Arts to study Fine Art: Painting. Amy and Chidera will study medicine, while other students will study a range of subjects from economics and psychology to geography and anthropology at a wide range of universities. The school said it was particularly proud of the performances of the first cohort of students who completed the IB Career Related Programme with flying colours. READ NEXT: The Olympic champion and world record holder raised in North Devon Interim head Helen Lowe said: Im incredibly proud of the students achievements. It is a privilege for me to now be a part of West Buckland School and to celebrate Year 13s results. I wish all those students every success as they move on to the next stage of their lives. I have seen already how West Buckland prepares students for both academic success and for life beyond school. A huge thank you to the students and staff for their hard work and dedication. Matt Brimson, outgoing head of sixth form after eight years, added: I have looked on with pride and admiration as this outstanding cohort has grown into fine young people. Walking with them on their bumpy, but fulfilling journey, they have demonstrated a genuine passion for their subjects and, really importantly, shown genuine care for each other. We wish them every success as they embark on their exciting futures. West Buckland saw 91% of grades in its vocational subjects, sport and applied science at Distinction*/Distinction level (equivalent to A* and A), while 90% of students in geography, mathematics and art A levels achieved A* to B grades. In further maths, 75% of students attained an A* and with a quarter achieving the same grade in geography, maths, art, religious studies and English literature. READ NEXT: Bliss for Will in England selection The next whole school Open Day is on Saturday, September 20 at 9.30am and the next Sixth Form Open Evening is on Wednesday, October 15 at 5,30pm. For further details, visit www.westbuckland.com/september-open-day ISTANBUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye is stepping up efforts to combat worsening drought, unveiling a series of nationwide measures to protect its dwindling water resources and safeguard food production amid one of the harshest years in recent memory for agriculture. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry launched Wednesday urgent plans for drought-prone regions and unveiled a five-year roadmap -- the 2025-2030 Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy -- outlining 23 measures focused on agriculture. Key steps include promoting rainwater harvesting, reusing treated wastewater, shutting down illegal wells, expanding modern irrigation systems, and adopting a basin-based water management model. The plan also calls for boosting research on alternatives to chemical fertilizers, such as organic, organomineral, compost, and green manure options, while promoting the expansion of agroforestry and living windbreak practices. It further aims to protect and sustainably manage ecosystems, increase carbon sink areas, boost greenhouse gas sequestration, and reduce ecosystem-based emissions. The urgency behind these measures stems from an alarming decline in rainfall and water reserves this year. According to the General Directorate of Meteorology, Turkiye's average rainfall in July dropped to 9.6 kg per square meter, far below the 1991-2020 average of 15.6 kg and last year's 32.7 kg. Several regions, including the Marmara, Aegean, Western Black Sea, Central Anatolia, and parts of the east and southeast, recorded deficits of more than 80 percent. The Marmara region suffered the steepest shortfall -- 95 percent below normal. "This is the first time we have experienced such a severe meteorological drought," Halim Orta, an academic at Tekirdag Namik Kemal University and a wheat farmer in Thrace, told Xinhua on Thursday. "Surface and groundwater levels are continuing to decline, intensifying the hydrological drought," he said, noting that water storage levels in the Marmara drinking water reservoirs fell below 1 percent in August, reaching critical lows. "Ultimately, this leads to socioeconomic impacts -- people struggle to find enough water for living and hygiene, while reduced production causes food prices to rise and disrupts accessibility," Orta said. Agriculture experts warned the crisis is already cutting deep into harvests. Wheat production is forecast to fall by 15 percent this year, and sunflower yields by half, with canola losses of at least 30 percent. Irfan Donat, an agriculture editor of online news platform Food and Agriculture, said that record temperatures in the southern region have also caused sunburn damage to citrus crops such as lemons, oranges, and mandarins, with Adana province reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius -- the highest in the past 95 years. "Calling it a disaster year would not be an exaggeration," Donat noted. MOSCOW, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- A Ukrainian drone struck the government building in Russia's Belgorod Region on Thursday, regional governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said. "No one was injured," Gladkov said in a video posted on his Telegram channel, adding that he was walking nearby when the strike occurred. "There is minor damage in the region." Footage shared by the governor shows minor damage to the government building's exterior, with several windows shattered. MERRILLVILLE Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith puts on a good show. Armed only with a microphone, the novice Republican officeholder held the attention of an occasionally combative audience of more than 100 people for nearly two hours Tuesday night inside a packed veterans hall and bar tucked into the northwest corner of Merrillville. The performance was as simple as the surroundings Beckwith answered questions. There was no preamble, no biographical introduction, no Pledge of Allegiance. Just an elected official listening to his constituents and responding with his honest opinion, even, or maybe especially, when he knew it wasn't what they wanted to hear. Afterward, Beckwith acknowledged that he's an outlier at a time when a lot of federal and state Republican politicians opt only to speak in prepared sound bites to favorable audiences, and many outright refuse to hold town hall-style meetings, fearing they may create a viral social media moment. But the No. 2 Indiana official insisted in-person engagement is essential because he believes "that's how we are called to steward this republic that has been passed down to us." "Passionate debate has been around since the beginning of our nation. You know, we're going to have people that disagree. By the way, we saw duels happen, right? Thank God we don't live in a society where we say duels are OK anymore. I think we've come a long ways. When people get passionate, when people yell, when people are saying, 'Hey, I believe this,' I think that's a good thing. And as long as we can keep it to the point where we say, 'Hey, at the end of the day we're still human, we're still all made in the image of God,' I think we're going to have a very, very bright future," Beckwith said. Ironically, Beckwith isn't in a position to do much on the issues raised at his town hall. His strained relationship with Republican Gov. Mike Braun, who didn't want Beckwith as his running mate last year, often freezes the lieutenant governor out of key state decisions. Though that also frees Beckwith to speak his mind. And he didn't hold back Tuesday calling the Braun-backed property tax law changes in Senate Enrolled Act 1 a "dumpster fire," vociferously opposing Braun's plan to toll interstate highways because "we're already taxed enough as it is," demanding the governor-appointed members of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission be replaced by individuals elected by Hoosiers and calling to pause the collection of Indiana's 7% sales tax on utility bills to give ratepayers a break. "The Republican Party has done a terrible job on lowering taxes and lifting the financial burden and keeping government limited all around the state," Beckwith said. "And it's hurting people like you. I see it all over the state; it's not just Lake County. So to my Republican friends, we have to do a better job of doing what we promised, which is lowering taxes and keeping government limited, and not intruding in every nook and cranny of your life." That said, Beckwith remains a committed Republican and even supports calls by President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance for an immediate redrawing of Indiana's congressional district boundaries especially Northwest Indiana's 1st Congressional District in the hope of creating more Republican-leaning seats in "red" states to preserve the slim GOP majority in the U.S. House. "My position is that Republican principles are better for everybody," Beckwith said. "And here's my unsolicited advice to Democrats in the room: If you would like to start winning elections, stop doubling down on stupid social progressive ideals and talk about things that matter to Hoosiers. You don't even know what bathroom kids should use in the public schools. How are you going to get to tax policy?" Beyond partisan politics, Beckwith said he's optimistic about the economic prospects of Northwest Indiana as a whole, and Gary in particular. "I think Gary has the potential to be one of the most awesome places in Indiana. I think there's an economic renewal that's right on the precipice of happening. I think it would take things like getting the airport going. I think it would take things to say, 'Hey, what can we do from a state level to draw some economic development that actually is smart and wise for this area,'" Beckwith said. "I've been up to Lake County probably more than any other place in the entire state since I've been lieutenant governor. I come up here a lot. Because I really believe in what's happening up here." After attending college in Vermont, Peter Gregg worked as an agriculture reporter for a local newspaper, then fell into a niche field: He became a maple syrup farmer. I got into sugarmaking through a friend and neighbor who invited me to hang out with him while he boiled sap all day, Mr. Gregg said. I love being outside in nature, I love trees and I have a wicked sweet tooth, so it was a perfect match. He soon bought a thousand-tree maple orchard on the Vermont-New York border, and then, in 1999, he founded a trade publication, The Maple News, which still prints 11 editions a year. We produce enough syrup every year to fill a hot tub, he said of the farm. It takes 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup. [Did you recently buy a home? We want to hear from you. Email: thehunt@nytimes.com. Sign up here to have The Hunt delivered to your inbox every week.] More recently, Mr. Gregg has leaned further into his writing career. His first book, The Sugar Rush: A Memoir of Wild Dreams, Budding Bromance and Making Maple Syrup, was published last year. He is working on a novel, to be titled Pancake Cowboy. Over the years, Mr. Gregg, now 58 and divorced, would travel to New York City often, taking his son and daughter now in their 20s for visits. Both eventually went off to college in the city. A tiny town in the middle of the woods was no place for an empty-nest bachelor, he said. I needed a jolt. I wanted to reinvent myself as a writer. The publishing industry is based in New York and there are so many resources for writers. 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 Floridas Continental Strategy, which has close ties to the Trump administration, has signed a one-year $2.1M pact to represent Kenya. Ties between the US and the eastern Africa nation are tattered following Kenya president William Ruto's state visit to China in April. After landing trade and infrastructure deals with the Chinese, Ruto applauded Chinas role in the new world order. That praise for Americas key geopolitical competitor triggered a review of US relations with Kenya, and a threat to revoke its major non-NATO ally status. That designation gives Kenya preferential access to economic and military benefits. Continental founder Carlos Trujillo, who leads the Kenya team, served in the first Trump administration as ambassador to the Organization of American States. He also was a Trump campaign surrogate in outreach to Latino voters during the 2024 presidential campaign. Managing partner Alberto Martinez, who was chief of staff to Florida Senator & now Secretary of State Marco Rubio; and partner Alex Garcia, who was deputy political director for battleground states in the Trump campaign, also rep Kenya. Continental also is home of partner Katie Wiles, daughter of Trump chief of staff Susie Wiles. Reports of Kodaks death are greatly exaggeratedfor now. Kodak is pushing back on reports that the 133-year-old company is set to go belly-up. CBS Evening News co-anchors John Dickerson and Maurice DuBois ended the Aug 12 broadcast by running a video tribute to the Rochester-based company. Kodak can see the writing on the wall said Dickerson, referring to the companys disclosure expressing doubt about its future. What did Kodak expect? It tacked on a Going Concern Assessment in its Q2 financial report. That set off gongs. Those assessments are usually buried in 10-Q and 10-K statements. For the quarter, Kodak lost $26M on a four percent drop in revenues to $263M. It made $26M a year ago. Kodak tried to put things into focus. On Aug. 13, it released a statement, expressing confidence that it can pay off a term loan before it is due. Donald Trump's insane tariff policy offers a glimmer of hope for Kodak. We manufacture a wide range of products in the U.S., including lithographic printing plates, photographic and industrial films, inkjet presses and inks, and pharmaceutical key starting ingredientsand our expectation is that tariffs instituted by the U.S. government are designed to protect American businesses like ours, said Kodak CEO Jim Continenza. Kodak lives on to fight another day. Shame on the RNC The Republican National Committee has sent out a fundraising pitch, saying the GOP stands as a bulwark against those who want to erase American history. It points to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseths decision to restore the Arlington Confederate Monument in Arlington National Cemetery that was torn down by protestors in 2020. Hegseth plans to spend $10M to restore the statue by 2027, which he claims was ripped down by woke lemmings. Thats unhinged. The statue is one the cruelest, most racist monuments in the country, and its location at the sacred ground of Arlington National Cemetery makes it even more offensive, according to retired General Ty Seidule. He vice chaired the naming commission that was responsible for the law requiring the Pentagon to remove all symbols and commemorations that honored the Confederate States of America. Seidule described the Arlington Confederate Monument statue in an opinion piece in The Hill. It depicts a tearful, overweight enslaved woman, a mammy, cradling the child of her Confederate enslaver, supporting him as he departs for war," he wrote. "The monument portrays faithful slaves and kind white masters, a historical lie. Slavery featured legal rape, torture and selling husband from wife, child from mother. The statue was installed at Arlington in 1914 after a campaign by the United Daughters of the Confederacy to promote the positives of the rebel movement. When members of the naming commission first visited the statue, "they were shocked by its overt racist imagery and anti-US sentiments, according to Seidule. The panel voted unanimously to recommend its removal. Hegseth says returning the statue represents a reconciliation moment. Who is he reconciling with? The RNC claims returning the statue is honoring American history. No it isnt. Its whitewashing it. Hey Vlad When are you going to release the 38 journalists that are languishing in your gulags? That would be a great question for Trump to ask indicted war criminal Vladimir Putin at their meeting in Alaska. Trump, though, may admire Putins arbitrary arrests of journalists on trumped-up charges. Russia, which is the worlds No. 5 jailer of reporters, on Aug. 14 declared the Reporters Without Borders media advocacy group an undesirable organization for its so-called role in undermining the countrys national security. Any Russian working for, or contributing to RWB could face five years in prison. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty had been on that undesirable organization list until Trump killed them. Putin owes his buddy a debt of gratitude. FNK IR signs on as investor relations AOR for game platform company CTW Cayman. The agency supported CTW along with their legal and banking advisors pre-IPO, and they will have an ongoing relationship now that CTW is a public company. FNK IRs scope of work for the client will include strategic counsel, content, communications, corporate access, research coverage & support, influencer & retail engagement, media relations & social media management, and market intelligence. CTW connects skilled game developers with owners of Japanese anime IP to create high quality games. It then makes those games available to a global audience through its HTML5 platform and shares revenue generated from players in-game purchases worldwide with game developers. Kaplow Communications is named consumer PR agency of record for HEYDUDE, a shoe brand for men, women and kids. Kaplow will oversee communications strategy, campaign planning, media relations and tastemaker engagement for the brand. At the onset of the partnership, Kaplow supported HEYDUDEs Fashion Crisis campaign with brand ambassador Sydney Sweeney and a Grand Central consumer pop-up experience. The account will be overseen by Kaplow EVP lifestyle Jee Nah Chang Walker. William Mills Agency is selected to enhance the PR strategy for Vine, a commercial lending accelerator for banks and credit unions. The agency will also work to expand Vines influence as an AI-powered platform for financial institutions. Vine says it helps financial institutions deliver faster decisions, provide more value and build stronger relationships. We were very impressed with William Mills Agencys extensive industry knowledge and strong media relationships as we continue to transform how financial institutions manage the commercial lending process, said Vine CEO and co-founder David Eads. MOSCOW, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Thirteen people were injured in a Ukrainian drone strike on the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, local authorities said Thursday. Two of the wounded have been taken to local medical institutions and were in serious condition, Rostov region's acting governor Yury Slyusar said on his Telegram channel. "Another 11 people with injuries are currently being delivered to the hospital. Information on the victims will be updated," he said. Several apartment buildings in Rostov were damaged due to the drone attack, according to Slyusar. Also on Thursday, a Ukrainian drone reportedly struck the government building and caused minor damage in west Russia's Belgorod region. A number of Tipperary men have appeared before a Defence Forces Tribunal in Dublin during recent months. Their cases are in relation to a number of unpleasant incidents, including bullying, which they were subjected to during their time in the Army. READ NEXT: PICTURES: Best snaps as tempers flare during Tipp's hurling championship opening weekend According to Steven Whelan, a solicitor in Coleman Legal, Talbot Street, Dublin, Coleman Legal is representing fifteen clients in the Midlands counties alone, including three clients from Tipperary; five clients from Galway; two clients from Laois; three clients from Offaly; and two clients from Westmeath. We also have a number of clients that are originally from these areas, Mr Whelan told the Midland Tribune, but are currently based overseas in Spain, Australia and the UK. READ NEXT: Tipperary's Michael Breen and Sharlene Mawdsley jet off to Canary Islands together The Tribunal has been established to examine the complaints processes related to serious allegations of misconduct, abuse and mistreatment within the Defence Forces both in Ireland and abroad. The Tribunal is also examining complaints related to Air Corps personnel being exposed to toxic chemicals in Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnell. Additionally, complaints related to the anti-malarial drug Lariam are being examined. The two solicitors working on the project, including Mr Whelan, are Defence Forces veterans themselves, which gives them, they believe, a unique understanding of the unique challenges faced by our clients. The Tribunal is tasked with examining the adequacy of complaints processes within the Defence Forces, investigating the culture surrounding the making of complaints, and assessing the response to reports of hazardous chemicals and other abuses. The inquiry is seen as being a significant step toward ensuring transparency, accountability, and improved standards for all serving personnel. READ NEXT: LIVE: Tipperary gardai issue urgent public alert over criminals latest efforts to steal This Tribunal is an opportunity for the Defence Forces community, continued Mr Whelan, to seek accountability and ensure future generations are protected from similar challenges our clients have faced. This will, we believe, help to ensure that the Defence Forces is a safe and welcoming environment for new and existing members and that service members have appropriate mechanisms in place to facilitate a complaint of abuse without fear of facing retaliation or reprisals. We are also concerned about the lack of awareness in the veteran and serving community and we have highlighted our concerns in a letter to the tribunal. The Defence Forces Tribunal is located in the Infinity Building in Smithfield. The Government intends to keep the office space in the Infinity Building going forward for further Tribunals and/or enquiries. The office space is equipped with a hearing room, interview rooms and offices for staff. The Offaly clients were accompanied in their interviews by Mr Whelan and a Junior Counsel Barrister. Each interview was conducted by two Barristers from the Tribunals Legal Team (a Senior Counsel and a Junior Counsel). Each interview was conducted in a non-adversarial manner, and each client was questioned by the two interviewers, after which the interview concluded. The sole member of the Tribunal is a Judge, Ms Justice Ann Power, who is supported by a legal team of six barristers, three of whom are experienced Senior Counsel. There is also a full-time solicitor, a registrar and a handful of full-time support staff. The Tribunal is currently in its investigative phase and at present is conducting interviews with those who did not make a formal complaint to the Defence Forces while they were serving members. Our experience so far, commented Mr Whelan, has been that a lot of ex-Defence Forces personnel did not make complaints while they were serving. The reason for this was because they were afraid to make a formal complaint as many had witnessed those who did make formal complaints face ostracisation or further bullying. A lot of our clients accepted bullying as they werent even aware of the complaints mechanisms. After the Tribunal concludes the interviews with the personnel who did not make formal complaints, those who did make formal complaints will then be contacted for interviews. This process will take slightly longer as they will need to provide the documentation theyve taken up from the Defence Forces as part of this process. The Tribunal will then decide, based on the interviews, who will be called to give evidence at the public sittings. As the Tribunal remains in its early investigative phase, no determinations or recommendations have yet been issued. However, upon conclusion of the process, it is expected that the Tribunal will make formal recommendations to the Government. It is our hope that any such recommendations will be supportive of those who suffered mistreatment during their time in the Defence Forces. A formal report will follow at a later date, but that is likely some time away, possibly 2027. Mr Whelan said Coleman Legal is representing a large number of individuals from the Midlands and other regions throughout the Tribunal process. Some have been interviewed already, he remarked, others are currently in the process of preparing for interviews, and a small number have yet to be contacted by the Tribunal. There is ongoing contact with the Tribunal team to assist in scheduling and preparing for these interviews. The interviews with the veterans currently living overseas, including in Australia, Spain and the UK can be conducted by video call. Some of our Midlands-based clients have already participated in interviews, with others scheduled in the near future. As each case proceeds at a different pace depending on documentation, I cant give a public update on each individual case at this time. We are hearing some deeply distressing accounts from clients, reflecting a systemic failure to protect both women and men during their time in service. Of particular note are statements that a number of individuals were subjected to bullying and harassment even after leaving the Defence Forces. This has included instances of public ridicule and, in some cases, efforts by serving members to obstruct former personnel from securing civilian employment. Our aim is to ensure that our clients are given an opportunity to give an account of their experiences in the hope that it will be acknowledged in the report and that changes to the organisation will be implemented. Mr Whelan pointed out that the Smithfield Tribunal remains one of the most significant developments in the campaign for accountability and justice for members and veterans of the Defence Forces. While there is still some way to go, the process has so far allowed many individuals who were never heard during their service to finally have their voices recorded and their experiences acknowledged. Our office remains committed to supporting our clients through this process and working with the Tribunal to ensure it fulfils its important mandate. AN Independent TD has expressed concern following the publication of a report commissioned for The Drinks Industry of Ireland (DIGI) which has found that the rate of pub closures is highest in rural counties, including Offaly with closure rates of over 30% between 2005 and 2024. According to the report, all 26 counties experienced declines in pub numbers over the 2005 to 2024 period. The highest decrease was in Limerick (-37.2%), followed by Offaly (-34.1%), Cork (-32.7%), Roscommon (-32.3%), Tipperary (-32.0%), Laois (-30.6%), Longford (-30.1%) and Westmeath (-30.0%). Deputy Carol Nolan said the research which further indicates that up to a further 1,000 pubs across the country could close over the coming decade paints a bleak outcome for a cultural and social institution that has been at the heart of rural and urban communities for as long as anyone can remember. This report is profoundly alarming, and it really highlights the need for direct government intervention, particularly around the need to use the upcoming Budget to introduce a 10% cut in excise, which at 23% currently stands as the second highest in the European Union. READ NEXT: OPINION: Offaly must get its fair share of investment from the IDA It is only when we have the lost the pub and all that it represents as the focal point for music, craic, and tradition that we will know what we have lost. It is one of the key features of our culture and our country that tourists regularly cite as the main reason why they visit Ireland. We cannot allow our tourism potential to be further decimated by the rampant closure rates we are currently witnessing, concluded Deputy Nolan. READ NEXT: Tullamore couple celebrate special 50th Wedding Anniversary with their family Article first published in the Missouri Independent The Trump administration recently slashed funding for the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), an agency that works to improve our health-care system. Such budget cuts threaten to make Missouri hospitals less safe, less effective and potentially more prone to devastating medical errors. While not as well-known as other federal health-care agencies, AHRQ is the only agency that works to improve the health-care system itself. Dr. Mary Politi, a researcher at Washington University in St. Louis, explained its significance: 'We have some very effective medications and treatments, but if people cannot access or use them safely and appropriately, they won't work as well. AHRQ helps study the ways to make health care work for people in real-world settings.' The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services plans to reduce AHRQ staff by as much as 80 to 90% and merge it with another office. Researchers we spoke to say the agency has stopped approving new grants, and more concerningly, all of the AHRQ grant administration staff were laid off in mid-July. As multi-year grants need to be re-approved every year by these staff, this means existing grants will likely not continue past the current year. Such cuts are especially concerning in Missouri. Despite receiving over $9 millionin AHRQ grants, it still has one of the worst-performing health-care systems in the nation. Missouri currently ranks 44th in maternal mortality rates, and 50th on avoidable hospital use and cost. Before the budget cuts, Politi had hoped to use AHRQ funding to make health care in Missouri safer for older adults. There are some patients that have symptoms of normal aging that are hard to distinguish from infections and so there are some people that might be getting overprescribed antibiotics, which can lead to adverse effects, Politi explained. She wants to investigate where and why such prescribing errors occur so they can be prevented in the future. Now, however, she fears the study may never become a reality. The stakes of not funding this kind of research are high. In 2015, a landmark report found most people in the U.S. will experience at least one incorrect or delayed medical diagnosis in their lifetime. When quality or safety breaks down, the results can be tragic. In April, Mercy Hospital in St. Louis County paid $48.1 million to settle a malpractice case that left a child permanently disabled. Additionally, because these health centers are not liable themselves, taxpayers often foot the bill. Even before the Mercy Hospital case, these suits cost taxpayers in Missouri and Kansas $21 million between 2018 and 2022. By contrast, when AHRQ funding is plentiful and used well, the positive impacts are easy to see. Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis particularly stands out in terms of its impressive hospital quality.Dr. Virginia McKay, another Washington University researcher, emphasized that when researchers in Missouri develop new ways to improve care, local patients are often the first to benefit. It really does foster leading-edge, high-quality care for kids and for adults that then St. Louisans get access to, and people in the region get access to, McKay said. In many ways, [St. Louis] Childrens' and Barnes-Jewish [hospitals] set national and global standards for care quality for the patients. And again, that's now going away. McKay's own AHRQ-funded study examined how to reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics during surgery. Similarly, researchers at Childrens' Mercy Hospital in Kansas City used AHRQ funding to help standardize antibiotic prescription for children. And researchers at University of Missouri-Columbia used AHRQ funding to improve how doctors decide what to prescribe to patients with hypertension. Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). You're the exception. Because the dead, That is, the once-alive, Far outnumber the living. I want to ask you a question. Why do Europeans tend to be healthier than Americans? European food standards are stricter. Many additives Found in American foods are banned in Europe. The availability and affordability Of fresh, local produce in Europe Also support healthier eating habits. But in most European countries, There is still glyphosate in the food Which is a dangerous pesticide. And it will continue to be in the food until 2033. That is because systems are not designed to care.. But don't go by statistics When it comes to navigating your life. Don't even believe them. Statistical health related revelations Can make you feel good Or it can make you feel doomed. But health is personal. Only you know what you are putting in your mouth, Or your lungs Or what you are thinking about Or what kind of people you hang out with Or how much you read labels Or whether your cosmetics are safe Or laced with chemicals. Only you know how much alcohol you consume And how much exercise you get And how many hours of sleep you average And how restful your sleep is And how much you like yourself And how much you like your life . . . The trouble is, oh god, What is the trouble!? The trouble is we let them fool us! We let them take us for a ride. We gave up our birthright to be a unique individual. I am not saying do not trust any system, But I am saying insist that whoever is helping you Manage your health, really sees you. One time I was in the forest And I realized that I was surrounded by trees that were individuals. Then, after realizing that and taking that in I became aware of the forest again As a kind of non-judgmental, high-functioning, Magnanimous, collective or community. See what Im saying? I had to recognize the individuality of each life form In order to be able to fully appreciate How nature functions in sync, Not like a machine, but a seamless And struggling community. As humans, billions of us, We need systems, But we need systems that see us Not as a statistic, but as unique human beings. In shamanism we talk about personal power. What is that? It is the power that comes with being real, It is the power that comes when we humanize our world, It is the power of not comparing ourselves to an average. You are not a number. You are not your name, Honor and respect yourself. See how everyone is an individual In this struggling world community The forest of humanity. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Either this nation shall kill racism, or racism shall kill this nation." (S. Jonas, Aug. 2018) "How do you spell ICE in German? GESTAPO." (S. Jonas, 2025) First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me.Pastor Martin Niemoller (c. 1946) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ As is very well known, Pres. Trump will be meeting with Pres. Putin in Alaska, of all places, to discuss some kind of settlement of the Russia-Ukraine War. (As it happens, that war was started when Russia invaded the Eastern territories of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Much earlier, Russia had annexed the Ukrainian Autonomous Republic of Crimea, in February, 2014. That action had a specific purpose, to protect the Soviet naval port at Sevastopol at the southern tip of Crimea, on the Black Sea. Sevastopol is Russias only warm-water port and at the time Russia held it only on a 30-year lease. There was a change of government in Kyiv, and given its nature, Russia did not want to take any chances on the possible cancellation of that lease.) As is well-known, the current, full-scale war has been largely stalemated at its front for several years now, although significant damage to civilian targets has occurred in Ukraine, also (less-so) in Russia (via drone-warfare). As is also well-known Trump has never had a favorable view of the current Ukrainian government, under President Volodymyr Zelensky. The public dressing-down he gave to Pres. Zelensky in the Oval Office on Feb. 28, 2025 has been well-recorded --- and widely noticed. But of course, during the 2024 Presidential campaign Trump had promised to bring the Russia-Ukraine War to an end on his first day in office. Ooops! So, Trump is obviously getting somewhat desperate here. And off he goes to Alaska. (I am hardly the only observer to note the irony of such a meeting taking place in Alaska, which territory was purchased from the Russian Empire in 1867, under the leadership of then-Secretary of State William Seward. That purchase was long referred to as Sewards Folly, a phrase with which I was familiar as a child in the 1940s. Obviously, Sec. Seward had a long view. Hardly a folly now.) Exactly what Trump expects to accomplish there is largely unknown (at least to the public). He did have a teleconference with the major European leaders and Pres. Zelensky on Wednesday, August 13 (2025). According to early reports, the European leaders, at least, made it clear that no territory was to be turned over to Russia as part of a settlement (presumably unless agreed to by Ukraine). Nevertheless, might there be a positive outcome, especially for the people of Ukraine? Hopeful? Yes, on paper. But I keep thinking about the negotiation in Europe in 1938 that in summary is referred to as Munich. Several U.S. observers, like Chris Matthews on MSNBCs Morning Joe on Aug. 13, 2025, and Bret Stephens in The New York Times of the same date, have used that term as well. (Mr. Stephens, with whom I often disagree had a great title for his column: A Half-Baked Alaska Summit.) A stronger position on "Trump/Putin/Alaska," also including a reference to "Munich," was taken by The New York Times' Nicholas Christof on Aug. 14, 2025. And so, to what are observers referring to when they reference "Munich?" In sum, it was a negotiation in which the two principal Western European powers of the time, the United Kingdom and France, gave way to the Nazi German demands which were the subject of the meeting, and, over the heads of the its government, gave the Western Half of the nation of Czechoslovakia, known in German as the Sudetenland and in Czech as Bohemia and Moravia. Hitlers claim was that the German minority in that territory was being mis-treated and that Nazi Germany had to occupy it in order to protect them. That, a) proved historically to have been way overstated and b) could have been accomplished through negotiation, which the Czech government was only too happy to engage in. But Hitler wanted something else. And so, I will return to a portion of a column that I published on this very subject back in 2010. Munich, 1938 As is well-known, once Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party took over Germany in 1933, very early on they began to re-arm(which had been forbidden by the Versailles Treaty). But the Western Powers did nothing to deal with that development (a policy called "Appeasement"). Nazi Germany's first overtly military operation was to "Remilitarize the Rhineland" (1936), a German province on its Western border which under the Treaty of Versailles was to have remained arms-free. Again, the Western Powers did nothing. Then, in 1938 came the Munich Agreement, which [as noted above] gave a goodly chunk of Western Czechoslovakia to the Nazis, to be incorporated into the German Reich, without a fight. The British Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain, famously advertised the Agreement as "Peace in our Time." But, as is well-known, it was quickly proven to be nothing of the sort. Just a few months later, in March 1939, Nazi Germany occupied eastern Czechoslovakia without a fight. Then came the invasion of Poland on Sept. 1, 1939, and so on and so forth. But returning to Munich, what Chamberlain wasreallytrying to achieve there had noting to do with the particulars of western Czechoslovakia and its Sudeten-German minority. As revealed in a 1995 book by Clement Leibovitz and Alvin Finkel entitled In Our Time: The Chamberlain-Hitler Collusion (New York: Monthly Review Press), it was something else entirely. Based both on official sources that became available under The (British) Official Secrets Act, and other correspondence and dispatches, the authors revealed what was really going on between the British and German governments of the time. It turned out that what Chamberlain was really trying to achieve at Munich had nothing to do with "appeasement" of Hitler and dealing with the Sudeten (western-Czechoslovakian) German-Problem. It had everything to do with: A) trying to keep Hitler focused on his already much-touted "Drang Nach Osten" ("Drive to the East"), designed (at that time in general terms) to achieve the destruction of the Soviet Union, and B) preventing the Red Army of that nation from taking up a prominent place in Central Europe (see the map). For the Soviet Union had pledged to the Czechs, who had a well-equipped and trained army of their own ready to fight the Wehrmacht, full ground and air military support. As the Sept. 30th deadline for the threatened German invasion approached, the Red Air Force had many planes warming up on airfields just over the Czech-USSR border, ready to attack the Nazis. But, under enormous pressure from the British and French governments, the final "go" which would have been required never came from the Czech government to the Soviets. The Red Air Force stayed on its runways and the Czechs were left to the tender mercies of the Nazis. Bohemia/Moravia was the first non-German territory seized by them in the run-up to WorldWar II. (The first foreign territory seized by the Nazis, in March, 1938, was Austria, in an operation called the "Anschluss.") Chamberlain thought that he had a long-term deal. Why Hitler thought he could push Chamberlain in giving away a major part of a nation that wasnt his, is (to my knowledge) not known. Had German intelligence determined that, while the Red Army was ready to come into battle to defend Czechoslovakia, that was the last thing that Chamberlain would want to happen? Chamberlain was an arch-enemy of the Soviet Union, from the early days of the Intervention by several major Western powers (including the United States) on the side of the Czarist Whites against the Reds of the Russian Revolution. Whether Hitler knew in advance what Chamberlains true goals were, it not known. But Chamberlain did have them, and what happened post-Munich did happen. Will Anchorage, Alaska Become an Historical synonym for Munich? It is well-known that Pres. Theodore Roosevelt's favorite saying concerning foreign affairs was to "Speak softly, and carry a big stick." Trump's of course is the exactly the opposite, as he loudly proclaimed the day before the meeting: Moscow will face severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin continues his war in Ukraine past their face-to-face meeting this week, as Europe braces for the results of their talks. BUT, and its a big but. What exactly are those consequences? How would Trump propose to carry them out, especially without, apparently, having involved either the Ukrainian government or the Europeans in discussion of any details? As for a second big BUT, remember that at Munich Chamberlain had an ulterior motive to give a significant chunk of a nation that was not his to Hitler: not allowing the Soviet Union to take up a major presence in Central Europe. So what motivation might Trump have to give away the store (or try to, in the absence of Ukraine and the European Powers)? Well it comes down to Putin's List, previously discussed. For a variety of reasons, ranging from foreign policy, to domestic policy, to Trumps image around the world (generally quite bad, but which can only get worse), to potential legal issues (despite the where-did-that-come-from-immunity clause), the last thing that Trump wants to happen is that in one way or another Putin releases or act upon all or part of it. The Putin's List at "Alaska" is the equivalent of Chamberlains No-Soviet-Union-in-Central-Europe at "Munich." Here is a partial list of what Putin has (or quite likely has, through Russian intelligence) on Trump: *There is Trump's very long, very secretive relationship with Deutsche Bank , which ended abruptly, and his personal banker there was fired by the Bank. There were many public suspicions of, shall we say, impropriety, but apparently no full investigation of what Trump undertook over the years with the Bank has ever been done (at least not one that was made public. It should be noted that the relationship came to an end when the German government shut it down and fired the private banker who had been running it for Trump). But again, one can be sure that if there were "Improprieties," Putin has evidence of them. *Then of course, there is the matter of Russian interference in the 2016 elections, details of which are spelled out in the "Mueller Report." Although the Mueller team was never able to get to Trump, they did get to numbers of his election-campaign-associates, some of whom went to prison for various offenses. Those materials are in the U.S. records, but surely Putin has copies (to say noting of the fact that since Putin certainly authorized them, he does have some knowledge of their details). *Next there is what happened, or not, at the famous 2018 "Helsinki meeting." Trump made no bones about having the notes of the interpreter for him at that meeting destroyed. But surely Putin had his own interpreter-made notes too, and he has those. (That's the meeting where, in answer to a question by MSNBC's Jonathan Lemire, Trump said that he trusted Russian Intelligence more than US.) *Then there are Julian Assange, Roger Stone and the "DNC tapes" (which purported to show how the DNC at least attempted to rig the primaries in favor of Hillary Clinton). These were very conveniently released within a few hours of the release of the Hollywood Access tapes. Could Putin be planning his own Munich for Trump, using materials like this, and others as well? We might know as soon as tomorrow or it might take some time to see how it --- the very possible U.S. betrayal of Ukraine --- plays out. If I am right here (and for the record, I am surely not always right), then Alaska (or Anchorage) will join Munich in the lexicon of historical betrayals. (Article changed on Aug 14, 2025 at 1:02 PM EDT) (Article changed on Aug 14, 2025 at 1:04 PM EDT) (Article changed on Aug 14, 2025 at 1:33 PM EDT) Long before Trump declared war on immigration, many Americans, especially white Americans, were becoming increasingly concerned about the changing demographics in our country. Population experts predict that by the year 2050, today's minorities collectively will outnumber the current white majority (re.google/eHoeCLT1tIT7bznqV). Immigration is the major driving force of these changes and Trump is determined to derail this trajectory. Hispanics are the largest minority in our country and their continued growth is outpacing the white population. They have a higher birth rate and are the most common migrants trying to enter our country. Almost daily, we witness aggressive efforts by ICE to round up as many Hispanic immigrants as possible, regardless of their legal status. The next largest group, black Americans, have established citizenship, but a long history of racist policies continues to thwart their economic and political advancement. Also, the Asian American population is growing at a fast rate, and other minorities are becoming more substantial (https://share.google/eHoeCLT1tIT7bznqV). If you look carefully, you will notice that all these groups are people of color. Concerns about people of color becoming dominant in our country have been evident for decades, typically espoused by far-right white supremacists. Many of these individuals subscribe to the Great Replacement conspiracy theory that purports that there is an active and secretive movement in our country designed to replace the white majority. Even many mainstream white Americans, at varying degrees of awareness, likely harbor similar fears. Trump's agenda to rid America of people of color resonates loudly with these groups. As Trump strives to make America racially pure again, there has been a barrage of other initiatives with this purpose in mind. The recently passed congressional bill will allocate billions to expand Trump's effort to shrink the population of immigrants in our country, either by deportation or blocking entry. Revoking the visas of foreign students who express views that are contrary to Trump's agenda is another example. Ending birthright citizenship will discourage many potentially legal immigrants, who conceivably could make significant contributions to our society, from even coming to our country and others living here may choose to leave. The administration recently banned the entry of citizens from various African and Middle Eastern countries. The deportation of naturalized citizens who presumably run afoul of Trump's policies is another target. Again, the vast majority of individuals affected by the above measures are people of color. Although deportation is not the stated objective, shutting down DEI programs is a more subliminal way to suppress the advancement of people of color, even though many are citizens already. These individuals are seeking support in pursuing educational, economic, and political advancement. By ending these programs, their chances of succeeding are greatly diminished, further eroding their potential threat to white America. Perhaps the most egregious spectacle of demagoguery occurred when the South African president was invited into the Oval Office for a politically staged ambush. The backdrop was granting refugee status to several dozen white Afrikaners who purportedly were victims of genocide by the black majority. These claims were manufactured and unsubstantiated (Click Here). Nonetheless, Trump orchestrated a grand media event with a video, pictures, and a propaganda blast. But the subliminal political messaging was ever more sinister. If we allow people of color, our current minorities, to reach majority status, they may turn on white America and commit heinous acts of retribution. Arguably, Trump's unrelenting anti-immigrant campaign can be considered a form of ethnic cleansing, targeting people of color, and designed, as much as possible, to Make America White Again. There have been other times in history when despots have claimed racial superiority as justification to mistreat and subjugate minorities, and sometimes they truly have committed genocide. This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week,click here. Hey, its a veritable bargain for Donald Trump! How could the businessman president (six of whose firms once went bankrupt) not be thrilled? For a mere $167,000, his administration will be able to destroy $9.7 million worth of U.S.-purchased contraceptives, now stored in a warehouse in Belgium, that otherwise would have been wasted on poor women in distant lands. After all, the U.S. Agency for International Development, which once distributed such products in poor countries, was essentially wiped off the face of the earth by the Trump administration. That act was hailed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who denounced USAID as a charity-based model that fueled addiction among the leaders of developing nations. The process of doing it in was described ebulliently by Elon Musk, when he was still involved in the Trump presidency, as putting the agency through the wood chipper. Admittedly, a study in the British medical journal The Lancet suggests that its closing could result in 14 million (no, that is not a misprint!) additional deaths by 2030 (and more than 4.5 million of them are likely to be children younger than five). Still, what could fit our moment better? Donald Trump, as the bankruptcy president, prefers to rule by bullying and spite, not aid of any sort, globally or domestically. And it tells you all you need to know about our present all-American world, that his crew has indeed essentially wiped out the one government agency dedicated to truly helping other people on this planet, while investing staggeringly more money in yes, the U.S. military budget. Thats all the aid you could want on this planet, right? And with that in mind, let TomDispatch regular William deBuys consider what the destruction of USAID is likely to mean not just for global health but for an America Last planet. Tom America First Is America Alone The Destruction of Global Health, Trump-Style By William deBuys The totalitarian playbook that Donald Trump seems to follow lacks a chapter. Power-crazed the president may be, but he fails to grasp soft power. Wise military and diplomatic minds understand it well. George C. Marshall, the nations top general through World War II and later secretary of state and secretary of defense, lent his name and his energies to the greatest exercise of soft power in American history, the Marshall Plan. Such was his stature that, with help from President Harry Truman and Senator Arthur Vandenberg, he persuaded an isolationist post-World War II Congress to approve the costly program and so secured western Europe from Soviet political control, while defining the preeminent battle line of the Cold War. More than six decades later, Jim Mattis, a retired four-star Marine Corps general who served as secretary of defense in the first Trump administration (when experience and professionalism were sometimes entertained in the Oval Office), championed soft power as Marshall had done. In testimony to Congress in 2013, he said, If you dont fund the State Department fully, then I have to buy more ammunition. He was endorsing the soft power of diplomacy to which he might have added the soft power of non-military assistance and moral and cultural influence. Soft power is the ability to obtain the outcomes one wants through attraction and persuasion rather than coercion and payment through means, that is, other than bullets, bullying, and bribery. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was a lineal descendant of the Marshall Plan and an embodiment of soft power. Its abandonment and ultimate destruction by the second Trump administration marks a watershed moment in the projection of American influence globally. Next to its headstone in the graveyard of institutions, one might also place a marker for the era that publisher Henry Luce once labelled the American Century. Like a married couple, the agency and its century deserve to be buried together, their lives having been intertwined and their dates nearly the same. The Murder Was Not Premeditated A possibly ketamine-pumped Elon Musk, brandishing a chainsaw at the Conservative Political Action Conference in February, proved an apt image for the Trumpist demolition of government institutions this year. The hideously misnamed Department of Government Efficiency, then led by Musk, performed no meaningful analysis of which government functions were essential to preserve, let alone which civil servants had the expertise and experience to make such functions viable. Employees were simply fired en masse in the bureaucratic equivalent of a meat-cleaver amputation (no scalpels involved). Initially, there was no plan to demolish USAID, just shrink it. However, what began as layoffs and the appointment of unqualified individuals to positions of authority led to resistance from employees loyal to their agency and their mission. That, in turn, prompted further cycles of layoffs and demolition. When the red mist of fighting finally lifted, there wasnt much left of the agency. Its remains were swept into the State Department, accompanied by solemn assurances that vital humanitarian programs had not been and would not be compromised, assurances no more real than an invitation to buy the Brooklyn Bridge. Yes, USAID had problems. What $30-billion-a-year organization doesnt? Some of its long-term advocates decried its faults as loudly as any MAGA cheerleader. In the words of one veteran partner of the agency, The bureaucracy was legion, hugely frustrating. In order to donate/spend a dollar you had to spend three, just to make sure the treasury wasnt getting ripped off. Its vital to understand that the agencys sclerotic procedures and glacially slow decision-making resulted not from the rampant waste, fraud, and abuse alleged by Trumpists but in order to avoid those evils. As a top executive of one of USAIDs largest contractors told me, Outside auditors were never not in our offices. Every expenditure was examined, checked against the highly detailed contract and program of work, and verified. In cases where speed was necessary or where arrangements in some back-of-beyond province were too fragile, USAID bypassed its labyrinthine contracting process and made direct grants to non-governmental organizations, or NGOs, that were locally based and staffed whenever possible. Admittedly, in those cases financial controls were looser, usually because scant infrastructure and operational uncertainties made bean-counting impossible. Sometimes, to build capacity or save lives, a relief organization simply has to wing it. Its tough to have it both ways. Next Page 1 | 2 | 3 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Singapore, August 14, 2025 - AFON, a trusted ERP solution provider in Singapore, is proud to be officially recognised as an IRAS-Accredited Vendor (IRSP) for Phil Knight and Penny Knight look on during the Hall of Fame Series, a college basketball game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Oregon Ducks on November 6, 2023 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Photo by Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Oregon Health & Science University on Thursday announced a $2 billion gift for cancer treatment from Nike co-founder Phil Knight and wife Penny Knight. The philanthropic donation supporting the Knight Cancer Institute is thought to be the largest in higher education and state history. Its also a needed financial and morale boost for OHSU, the states leading research institution. GUANGZHOU, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- As scorching heatwaves grip the globe this summer, air conditioners have become essential everywhere, fueling a boom in sales both domestically and abroad. A local resident of Panjin City in northeast China's Liaoning Province, surnamed Dong, described the summer as a relentless "sweat bath," despite it already being August. "This summer is just too hot. Even electric fans can't provide enough relief," Dong said, noting that he held out all summer but finally gave in and ordered air conditioners a few days ago. This sentiment is shared across coastal cities in northeast China and Shandong Province in the east, where temperatures have climbed above 35 degrees Celsius, turning air conditioners from an optional comfort for northerners into an almost essential refuge from the heat. Data from Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com reveals a telling trend. Starting from June, the overall transaction amount for air conditioners on the platform has increased by over 60 percent year on year, with the number of customers placing orders surging by nearly 90 percent. In the first half of July, purchase of air conditioners in northeast China's Jilin, Liaoning and Heilongjiang -- provinces renowned for ice and snow tourism -- soared by 25 times, 10 times and eight times, respectively. Notably, the number of first-time buyers in these northeastern provinces has jumped by over 800 percent year on year. Similar spikes are evident across north, central, northwest and southwest China. At the Ouya Shopping Center in Changchun, Jilin Province, customers are flocking to the home appliance section to learn about various air conditioner models and inquire about prices. To meet the high demand, Hisense's production bases in Shandong, Zhejiang and Guangdong are operating at full capacity. Some popular air conditioner models have even sold out in physical stores in north and northeast China. As regions that once relied on fans switch to air conditioners, the industry is responding with innovative solutions and strategic supply chains to keep up with the escalating demand. To ensure timely installations, companies have launched a "South-to-North workforce transfer," dispatching after-sales service teams to the northern regions for emergency support. The "cooling economy" is also powering air conditioner exports at a pace that has exceeded expectations. In July, temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius across much of Europe, upending the long-held belief that summers could be endured without air conditioning. Data from the General Administration of Customs shows that in the first seven months of this year, China's air conditioner exports amounted to 46.81 billion yuan (6.56 billion U.S. dollars), up 4.9 percent year on year, with exports to Europe surging 28.9 percent to 12.92 billion yuan. This year, Hisense air conditioners have seen strong demand in many key overseas markets, such as Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Latin America. "With our continuous optimization in local marketing, product adaptation and channel layout, Hisense's air conditioner export growth rate reached 17 percent in the first half of 2025," said Yang Xiangxi, brand director of the air conditioning division at Hisense. In the first half of this year, Midea's air conditioner sales in Europe increased by 35 percent year on year. Zhu Zhou, director of the company's European air conditioner division, explained that Midea's Solstice model, featuring AI-powered ECOMASTER technology, cuts unnecessary energy use by over 30 percent, and has seen strong sales in Greece, Cyprus, Spain and Italy. To tackle high installation costs in Europe, Midea developed the innovative PortaSplit air conditioner, designed for easy self-installation. This summer, Google searches for "Midea/PortaSplit" in Germany surged 20-fold year on year, with cumulative sales exceeding 80,000 units. Jiangmen POSI Refrigeration Appliance Co., Ltd. swiftly adjusted its production structure to capitalize on the current surge in demand. "Currently, Europe is speeding up the phase-out of old models, with many cities, especially in Southern Europe, demanding air conditioner manufacturers demonstrate 'green capabilities,'" said Li Xueliang, executive president of Jiangmen POSI. In response, the company has expanded its zero-carbon factory to focus on high-efficiency products. China accounts for nearly 80 percent of the world's air-conditioning production capacity, supplying energy-saving, efficient and low-carbon products globally. With climate extremes worsening and demand rising in developing countries, China's air-conditioning export potential looks strong for the future, said Zhou Nan, secretary general of the home appliances branch at the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products. A 16-year-old drowned in the Columbia River near Vancouvers Frenchmans Bar Regional Park on Wednesday evening, officials said. The teen was swimming about 20 yards offshore when he suddenly went underwater and failed to surface, witnesses reported, according to Clark County Fire District 6. Conditions in the Columbia River at Frenchmans Bar are known to be treacherous, and authorities urge caution for those who choose to swim there, the fire agency said in a statement. The current is swift in this section of the river and there is a large drop-off just offshore. Multiple local fire and police agencies, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard, responded to a report of a possible drowning, and the search-and-rescue effort included four boats, seven rescue swimmers and a helicopter. Clark County Fire District 6 said that, despite a herculean effort, the search-and-rescue operation turned to a recovery phase at around 9 p.m. The agency did not say whether a body had been recovered and did not release the teen swimmers name. -- The Oregonian/OregonLive An eastern Oregon educator filed a federal lawsuit in Pendleton, claiming his employer's order to remove certain books from his office violated his constitutional rights. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew D. Hallman is presiding over the case. Lucas Hellberg/East Oregonian PENDLETON An eastern Oregon educator is suing his employer, alleging an order to remove anti-trans childrens books from his desk violated his constitutional rights. Education specialist Rod Theis filed the federal lawsuit in May against the InterMountain Education Service District. He claims the district ordered him to remove two childrens books He is He and She is She from his desk. Theis asserts the two books explain that every child should love and accept themselves as God intended. Theis alleges the district violated his rights to free speech under the First Amendment and equal protection under the 14th Amendment because the restriction is overbroad, not content-neutral and expresses hostility toward his religious-based viewpoints. Our legal system is built on the truth that the government cant silence a speaker just because it disapproves of what he says, his attorney Tyson Langhofer said in a statement. The InterMountain Education Service District, based in Pendleton, includes roughly 20 school districts in Umatilla, Morrow, Baker and Union counties, including La Grande, Pendleton and Milton-Freewater school districts. It provides a variety of services, including special education, instructional services, technology support and administrative services, to districts and students. Theis is a clinical social worker who has worked for the district since 2008, according to the lawsuit. His work involves traveling to schools to conduct evaluations to determine students social or emotional needs. Superintendent Mark Mulvihill said Theis makes $89,000 a year. Mulvihill declined to comment on the lawsuit. Theis claims he began displaying the two books on Oct. 2, 2024, on the windowsill behind his desk at La Grande Middle School. La Grande Middle School Principal Chris Wagner asked Theis on Oct. 21 to move the books out of sight after a staff member complained. One day later, service district Director of Human Resources Aimee VanNice told him that a potential bias incident complaint had been filed against him relating to a persons gender identity. According to the districts Every Student Belongs policy, bias incidents include hostile expressions directed at another person based on their perceived race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or national origin. During the districts investigation of the complaint, Theis told VanNice he displayed another childrens book Johnny the Walrus in a different office. Theis claims the book is about a boy with a vivid imagination who faces pressure from others to permanently identify as the things he pretends to be. VanNice told Theis on Nov. 22 that displaying the three books at his offices amounts to a bias incident, the suit says. She said similar conduct in the future might result in discipline or termination. Theis appealed VanNices decision to Mulvihill on Dec. 2, 2024, but he did not prevail. He then appealed it on Jan. 22 to the Education Service District board of directors, who also rejected the appeal. The matter went no further until Theis filed the federal lawsuit to stop the district from preventing him from displaying the books in his office. Attorney Rebekah Schultheiss of Springfield and three out-of-state lawyers Langhofer, Matthew Ray and David A. Cortman from the conservative legal advocacy group Alliance Defending Freedom are representing Theis. Alliance Defending Freedom helped overturn Roe v. Wade in 2023. Its website says it helps advance everyones God-given right to speak the truth and live. InterMountain Education Service District has not responded to the allegations in the lawsuit. It has until Aug. 22 to respond. Theis has requested a preliminary injunction to allow him to continue to display the books while the lawsuit is pending. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrew D. Hallman heard oral arguments on the preliminary injunction request on July 18 at the federal courthouse in Pendleton. He has not issued a ruling. Theis has requested a jury trial. The court has not set a trial date. -- Lucas Hellberg is a reporter at the East Oregonian through the Charles Snowden Program for Excellence in Journalism. He is a student at the University of Oregon and previously worked as a member of The Oregonian/OregonLives Youth Voices team, where his work garnered significant reader engagement. This Nov. 30, 2014 image made from video released by Loujain Alhathloul shows her driving towards the United Arab Emirates-Saudi Arabia border before her arrest on Dec. 1, 2014, in Saudi Arabia. (AP Photo/Loujain al-Hathloul, File) (AP Photo/Loujain al-Hathloul, File) A federal judge in Portland has ruled that a Saudi womens rights activist can move forward with her civil lawsuit accusing three former executives of a foreign software company of computer fraud and abuse. Saudi activist Louijain Hathloul Alhathloul can argue that the executives targeted her in the U.S. by hacking into her iPhone and monitoring her private communications while she was attending a womens conference in Washington, D.C, in 2017, U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut decided in a 56-page opinion Wednesday. Her allegation that the hacking was deliberate is allowed to proceed, the judge ruled. Immergut denied motions to dismiss the claims filed by the defendants, former executives of the DarkMatter Group, a private technology company headquartered in the United Arab Emirates that provided cyber-intelligence services to the Emirates government, according to the U.S. State Department. The suit alleges DarkMatter recruited the intelligence workers, installed them as executives and bought specialized U.S. technology. Alhathlouls lawyers claim DarkMatter formed business relationships with U.S. companies to build a special hacking tool called Karm that was routed through Apples U.S-based servers to elude detection. The lawsuit alleges that the former executives used the U.S. cybersurveillance technology and their U.S. intelligence training to install spyware on Alhathlouls iPhone and extract data from it, including while she was in the United States and communicating with U.S. contacts. They were able to view the contents of Alhathlouls phone, including data from her personal messages on Facebook and WhatsApp, remove the data to a server controlled by DarkMatter and monitor her location and private communications with other human rights advocates, researchers and journalists, her suit alleges. Alhathloul was assigned the code name Purple Sword, according to court records. Attorney David Greene, the Electronic Frontier Foundations civil liberties director and senior staff attorney who helped file the suit, said the ruling marks the first time a U.S. federal court has allowed a lawsuit filed by the alleged victim of a foreign governments abuses believed to have been enabled by U.S.-made spyware. We are eager to proceed with proving our case, he said in a statement. Attorney Cliff Davidson, who represents the former DarkMatter executives, declined comment on the opinion. Attorneys for the company and the former executives had argued that the U.S. District Court did not have authority to rule because the hacking was alleged to have started outside the United States on foreign soil before Alhathlouls visit to America. But Immergut rejected that argument. The DarkMatter executives at the time were aware that Alhathloul was speaking at the Driving Forward: Women in the Gulf Access a Changing Leadership conference at the Capitol, the judge found. Alhathlouls presence at the event was promoted on Twitter by the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington and on her own Twitter page. The facts alleged at this stage in the case support a strong inference that the executives knew her location when they extracted data from her device in the U.S. and thus deliberately targeted her in the U.S., Immergut wrote. After the conference, Alhathloul was detained by the United Arab Emirates security services and returned to Saudi Arabia in March 2018, where she was imprisoned and tortured. She is no longer in prison, but she is currently subject to a travel ban and unable to leave Saudi Arabia. Alhathloul, 36, a nominee for the 2019 and 2020 Nobel Peace Prize, has been an advocate for womens rights in Saudi Arabia for more than a decade. She was at the forefront of the public campaign advocating for womens right to drive in Saudi Arabia and has been a vocal critic of the countrys male guardianship system, according to her lawyers. Immergut did dismiss a claim that the former executives and DarkMatter violated her rights through discriminatory persecution under the Alien Tort Statute, a federal law that allows non-U.S. citizens to sue in U.S. federal courts for civil wrongs committed in violation of international law. Recognizing a cause of action here effectively finding that the UAE is committing crimes against humanity and allowing all so affected to sue in U.S. courts could have serious practical ramifications for the U.S.s relations with the UAE, a key U.S. ally in the Middle East, Immergut ruled. The suit was filed in Portland because it was first thought that one of the three former intelligence workers owned property in Oregon, according to the Electronic Frontier Foundation. But the former worker did not own land here and that was removed from the amended complaint. Two years ago, Immergut threw out Alhathlouls initial suit, finding than that the U.S. court lacked jurisdiction. But she noted during oral arguments earlier this year that an April ruling by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals had changed the landscape pretty significantly. The ruling in Briskin v. Shopify found that a California mans data privacy suit against the Canada-based e-commerce platform Shopify can remain in federal court in California because Shopifys alleged targeting of the man was said to have occurred in California. The man said his personal data was shared with Shopify when he used his iPhone to buy clothing from the IABMFG brand and pressed Pay now. Shopify does online sales for merchants. In 2021, the former DarkMatter executives - Marc Baier, Ryan Adams and Daniel Gericke -- agreed to pay a total of $1.68 million in fines in lieu of criminal prosecution, accused by prosecutors in Washington, D.C., of providing unauthorized defense services to the United Arab Emirates. They had been charged with conspiring to commit computer and device fraud and conspiring to violate the Arms Export Control Act and International Traffic in Arms regulations. Baier agreed to pay $750,000; Adams, $600,000 and Gericke, $335,000, according to court records. As part of the agreement with prosecutors, they said they would resign from any jobs or consulting work with all United Arab Emirates intelligence, law enforcement, military or defense agencies or companies, provide information to the FBI and relinquish all U.S. or United Arab Emirates government security clearances. -- Maxine Bernstein covers federal court and criminal justice. Reach her at 503-221-8212, mbernstein@oregonian.com, follow her on X @maxoregonian, on Bluesky @maxbernstein.bsky.social or on LinkedIn. Chief Operating Officer Christopher Neal announced the investigation Thursday, two weeks after the countys Preschool for All Director Leslee Barnes resigned under a cloud of controversy. Austin De Dios/The Oregonian Multnomah County has hired an outside law firm to scrutinize its conflicts of interest and ethics policies. Chief Operating Officer Christopher Neal announced the investigation Thursday, two weeks after the countys Preschool for All Director Leslee Barnes resigned under a cloud of controversy. Barnes was tied to a preschool provider accused of wasting state funds. That preschool, Village Childcare, was only receiving money from a state program, not the countys Preschool for All program, officials have said. Volunteers pack and deliver groceries to patrons at Saint Matthew Lutheran food pantry. Food at the pantry is primarily provided by the Oregon Food Bank. Mark Graves/The Oregonian Oregons Department of Human Services is working to lessen how often the state miscalculates the amount of food stamp benefits enrollees should receive, aiming to comply with new federal restrictions and avert a worse financial strain on the states largest agency. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek shared details surrounding the effort this week in an Oregon analysis of the Republican Big Beautiful Bill. The more than 740,000 Oregonians using the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, will see some changes to their benefits, according to the report. The exemption of certain individuals from SNAP benefits will likely place additional pressure on the food bank system as well as other systems of social support throughout Oregon, the analysis said. The states analysis proposed immediate executive level oversight to reduce how often SNAP offices across the state either over or underpay benefits to enrolled Oregonians. The human services department is already assembling a team to do so, it said. Oregons 2024 SNAP administrative error rate of 14.06%, which ranks as the eighth highest in the nation, must come down to below 6% to avoid increased costs under the new federal rules, according to the analysis. Without that, Oregon would have to pay 75% of administrative costs for running SNAP in the state about $500 million every two years. The federal government historically covered half of those administrative costs. But the Trump administration and congressional Republicans claim that a shift to state funding is necessary because the program is rife with overuse and fraud. Anti-hunger advocates have pushed back, saying administrative error should not be conflated with fraud or abuse of the system. They point to a carveout extending time for cost-sharing requirements until 2029 in states like Oregon and Alaska with particularly high error rates. U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, an Alaska Republican whose state leads the nation with a 2024 error rate of 24.66%, proposed the exemption. Cuts changing eligibility for youth, immigrants The new changes enacted by Congress and the Trump administration increase work requirements, remove eligibility for SNAP for some immigrants and slash benefits for energy assistance. Advocates warn the cuts will lead to additional strain on the states food banks. H.R. 1 will strip hundreds of millions in food assistance from Oregonians forcing more families into lines at food assistance sites just to get by, said Oregon Food Bank President Andrea Williams in a statement. Oregon Food Bank is doing everything we can to meet the need, but food banking cant replace the scale of federal programs like SNAP. The human services department estimates that 310,000 Oregonians will need to meet the new 80-hour-a-month work requirements under the bill. The new requirements apply to adults ages 18 to 65 without children under 14. The requirements include former foster youth and veterans. The new federal law also removes historical protections for refugees and asylum seekers who typically had access to SNAP benefits in comparison to immigrants without permanent legal status, who have never been eligible for the program. The department estimates that 2,957 lawfully present Oregonians without citizenship will lose their benefits under this rule, though Cuban and Haitian entrants admitted to the United States under specialized refugee programs are not barred from access. Additionally, extra SNAP benefits that were typically allotted to households receiving assistance for utility payments will cease for about 17,000 Oregon households, according to the human services department. The new law requires such households to have a resident with a disability or who is 60 or older, leading to an estimated loss of $58 a month in benefits per affected household. In a statement announcing the analysis, Kotek said Republicans and the Trump administration were betraying American children and families. She vowed to work with lawmakers and community partners to get through this needless, callous hardship. I will continue to hold the line and push back as Oregon values are under threat, she said. I hope Oregonians will stand with me as we fight this together. Sara Campos, a spokesperson for the states human services department, said the department shared Koteks concerns. The federal budget shifts unsustainable costs to the state and will take food off the table of Oregonians, Campos wrote in a statement. These cuts directly undermine the health and stability of our communities. -- Shaanth Nanguneri, Oregon Capital Chronicle, snanguneri@oregoncapitalchronicle.com Oregon Capital Chronicle is part ofStates Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) KUNMING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday met with his Thai counterpart Maris Sangiampongsa in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, and pledged to enhance bilateral ties and cooperation of the Lancang-Mekong countries. Maris is in Anning for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting from Aug. 14 to 15. Thailand is the co-chair of the LMC, which is an innovative type of regional cooperation mechanism among China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Thailand, Wang said China is ready to work with Thailand to deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation, promote the cooperation of the Lancang-Mekong countries to a new level and inject new momentum into regional peace. China is willing to work with Thailand to accelerate the construction of the China-Thailand railway, encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in Thailand, and further explore cooperation potential in green development, digital economy, artificial intelligence and other fields, Wang said. China will join Thailand in ensuring the stability and smooth operation of regional industrial and supply chains, he added, noting that China hopes Thailand will provide more policy support and facilitation for Chinese enterprises. Maris said Thailand looks forward to the sound and steady development of bilateral ties and expressed hope for even more fruitful cooperation over the next 50 years of bilateral relations. Thailand attaches great importance to the LMC mechanism and believes that the growing cooperation will play a greater role in regional prosperity and stability, Maris said. Both sides exchanged views on the Thailand-Cambodia border situation. China supports Thailand and Cambodia in strengthening dialogue and consultation to rebuild trust and restore friendship, and backs ASEAN in resolving its internal problems in "the ASEAN way," Wang said, adding that China is also willing to provide necessary assistance in accordance with the wishes of both countries. Maris said Thailand highly appreciates China's objective and impartial stance and its constructive role in de-escalating the situation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai) A child and their parents in Tennessee were killed after a tree fell on the family's car following heavy rain and flooding in the state. Authorities said that the three victims were killed when saturated ground caused a massive tree to fall in the Chattanooga suburb of East Ridge shortly after midnight. Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management spokesperson Amy Maxwell said that a search was ongoing on Wednesday for a man who walked through a flooded area in Chattanooga on Tuesday. Parents and Child Killed by Felled Tree Maxwell said that the full extent of the damage left by the flooding is not yet clear, noting that county officials are planning to tour the area soon. The recent incidents prompted rescues of people who were stuck inside homes and swamped vehicles on Tuesday. Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp also declared a local state of emergency on Tuesday night, and residents were urged to exercise extreme caution. A communications systems technician, Troy Plemons, said he was stuck in traffic on an interstate for two to three hours on Tuesday night when the area flooded, according to PBS. Read more: Teenage Girl Dies After Gunman Shoots Into Kansas City Home Plemons then said that he saw the water pick up an SUV, causing him and two others to encourage the woman inside to get out. However, she threw her hands up like she did not know if she would be able to. After that, Plemons moved to the bed of a truck that was next to him to try to get closer to the woman stuck inside her car. However, the water was quickly rising up to her chest, and he said that someone had to go in to rescue her. Flooding in Tennessee Catoosa County officials also reported that there have been more than 100 evacuations and dozens of rescues from two local apartment complexes because of the inclement weather. Chattanooga authorities shared a video and images of first responders rescuing a family in waist-deep water, CBS News reported. The National Weather Service also issued a flood watch for much of middle Tennessee through Wednesday night. The agency warned the public of scattered flash flooding with tropical-like heavy rainfall and chances of training storms. Officials reported that the flooding in the area closed parts of Interstate 24 but later reopened after the waters receded. Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett said that flooding was more extensive than what officials have seen before. Garrett added that the flooding was "widespread," noting that it has made it difficult for them to get there themselves to try and rescue people who were in need, as per ABC News. Law enforcement authorities reported that two teenagers from South Carolina were arrested after they stole and crashed a train, causing a derailment and significant damage. In a statement, the Laurens Police Department said that the juveniles unlawfully entered both the Carolina Piedmont Railroad and CSX Transportation Railroad facilities between 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Saturday. Teenagers Steal and Crash a Train Investigators later determined that the teenagers started an engine that was connected to two other engines. They then drove all three of the engines around the yard before taking them onto the rail line that connects to Greenville. Officials said that while the suspects were trying to return the engines to the yard, they collided with parked railcars, which caused a derailment of the engine and significant damage to one of the cars. The two juveniles were charged with several offenses, including second-degree burglary, grand larceny, malicious damage to property, willful destruction of railroad property, and others. Laurens Police Chief Heath Copeland said what the teens did was a "dangerous and reckless act," according to KEYT. Officials noted that railroad yards and live tracks present unique hazards, such as moving equipment, heavy railcards, and energized systems. They warn that these could have life-threatening consequences. The Association of American Railroads revealed that there were 65,000 cargo thefts on United States railways last year, which represents a 40% increase year-over-year. The statistics equate to roughly 180 cargo thefts every day across the nation, which cost Class I railroads more than $100 million in 2024 alone, Newsweek reported. Authorities said that the two juveniles who were arrested are being detained at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice in Columbia. It remains unclear exactly how the suspects were able to gain access to the equipment and locomotives. Arresting and Charging the Suspects Following the arrest and charging of the two teenagers, Laurens Police officers are still investigating the incident. Authorities are encouraging the members of the public to report any suspicious activity that they witness in the area, as per MSN. The Laurens Police Department posted on Facebook on Aug. 11, notifying the public about the incident and the two suspects. The teenagers' identities and ages have not been revealed because they are minors. A separate incident involved a group of teenagers who were captured on camera stealing a subway train in Queens and taking it for a joyride. The incident took place in January, and officers initially responded to reports of vandalism. Police were able to arrest two members of the group, a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old, who were charged with reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, and trespassing. Texas authorities reported that 10 people were brought to hospitals on Wednesday, including several students, after an elementary school bus rolled over on a rural road north of Austin. In a Facebook post, the Travis County Emergency Services District said that nine of the injured victims were students. The agency added that the accident also injured the driver, who was brought to the hospital as well. School Bus Rolls Over The assistant chief with Austin-Travis County Medical Emergency Services, Kevin Parker, said that one of the injuries was life-threatening and that two were potentially life-threatening. He added that the remaining injuries were not life-threatening. At the time of the incident, there were 43 people who were inside the bus when it rolled over, which happened after school and before any of the students had been dropped off. An official with the Texas Department of Public Safety said that it is not yet clear why the bus drove off the right side of the road and rolled over, according to NBC News. While a preliminary investigation is ongoing, an official noted that there was a slight curve in the road near where the school bus rolled over. The driver of the vehicle was described as a seasoned veteran. The superintendent of the Leander Independent School District, Bruce Gearing, said the incident comes as the community has already experienced other tragedies, such as floods. He said that they want each of the students and their families to know that their prayers are with them. Transporting Injured Students to the Hospital Emergency services were dispatched to the scene of the incident shortly after 3:15 p.m. The school bus was found with significant damage as it lay on its side surrounded by trees in an embankment, ABC News reported. The passengers of the bus who were not transported to the hospital were instead brought to a reunification center for further evaluation and to be reconnected with their families. The injured victims were transferred to the hospital via eight EMS ambulance units and two helicopters. Authorities said that the fact that helicopters were used did not reflect the severity of the injuries, but rather the distance that emergency services had to transport the victims. Gearing noted that it was not immediately known whether or not the students were wearing seatbelts when the bus rolled over. He noted that students are typically required to wear seatbelts whenever the bus is equipped with them. Since the vehicle they were riding on was a 2024 Blue Bird, they should have had access to seatbelts, as per Yahoo News. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, invites Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa to share in a tea gathering in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai) BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday invited Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa to share in a tea gathering in Anning in southwest China's Yunnan Province, and the three sides engaged in friendly and candid communication in a harmonious atmosphere in talking about the border conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that neither Cambodia nor Thailand want the border conflicts to continue and both are willing to resume dialogue and improve relations, adding that the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting to be held in Anning provides an opportunity for both sides to pursue these aims. He also pointed out that the word "Anning" implies peace, harmony and amity in Chinese -- and it is hoped that both Cambodia and Thailand can jointly speak out for peace while in Anning. Noting that China supports Cambodia and Thailand in engaging in dialogue, eliminating misunderstandings, rebuilding mutual trust and restoring normal exchanges and cooperation, Wang said China backs both sides in fully implementing the consensus reached at the extraordinary session of the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting between Cambodia and Thailand and consolidating the ceasefire situation without delay. China also supports the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in playing its due role and properly resolving issues in the ASEAN way, supports both sides in responding to the demands of the two peoples and reopening the border crossings as soon as possible, Wang said. China is willing to provide support and assistance for clearing of mines and other activities in the border areas of Cambodia and Thailand in accordance with the will of both sides, Wang said. He added that Cambodia and Thailand are eternal neighbors and brothers, and it is believed that the two sides can manage specific disputes well and join hands to address various global challenges. This will surely be welcomed by the people of both countries and is also the common expectation of regional countries, Wang stated. The foreign ministers of Cambodia and Thailand sincerely appreciated China for providing the opportunity for communication between the two sides and highly appreciated China's constructive role in easing the situation and promoting dialogue. Both sides emphasized the value of peace and the importance of good-neighborliness, and reaffirmed their willingness to actively implement the ceasefire agreement, make full use of the dialogue mechanism, and manage and resolve disputes through peaceful means. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, invites Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn and Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa to share in a tea gathering in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) In recent months, Microsoft has urged users to ignore certain error messages that werent what they seemed, most notably back in April with WinRE error code 0x80070643 as well as in July with Windows Firewall error messages in Event Viewer. It hasnt even been that long, but were back with another call from Microsoft to ignore yet another error message, reports BleepingComputer. Specifically, Microsoft says users may be seeing incorrect CertificateServicesClient (CertEnroll) errors after intalling the optional July 2025 update or subsequent updates. The error message in question is shown as Error ID 57 in Event Viewer and the text reads: The Microsoft Pluton Cryptographic Provider provider was not loaded because initialization failed. Microsoft provides a note in its Windows Release Health support document: Following installation of the July 2025 Windows non-security preview update (KB5062660) and later updates including the August 2025 Windows security update, Event Viewer may display an error related to CertificateServicesClient (CertEnroll) which can be safely ignored. Please note that although this event is logged in Event Viewer every time the device is restarted, it does not reflect an issue with any active Windows component. This event is related to a feature that is currently under active development. There is no impact to Windows processes associated to this event and no action is required to prevent or resolve this error. Error ID 57 is due to a bug and has no impact for end users, so you do not need to take any action and can safely ignore the message. Can you imagine yourself having a conversation with Windows about what your PC is doing? Microsofts Windows chief can, and is trying to build a future where those interactions are the norm. In an interview with Microsoft AI product manager Christiaan Brinkhoff, the chief of Microsofts Windows + Devices group, Pavan Davuluri, explained that the company is trying to work toward a future where you can access Windows pretty much anywhere via the cloud, then use AI to fine-tune what youre trying to accomplish. Microsoft described the conversation as the next chapter of Windows, with an eye toward delivering the changes within the next few years. Davuluri described what he hoped the Windows team could accomplish from a strategic level, without targeting any future version of Windows with these goals in mind. Like many projects at Microsoft, Davuluris vision begins with businesses in mind. Instead of (or adjacent to) the PC, Microsoft said its backing the Windows 365 Link, a sort of dumb mini PC that connects directly to the cloud and to Windows 365. People are not talking about multiple steps; theyre just trying to get to the cloud PC as seamlessly as possible, he said. They cant tell when theyre using their local CPU and when theyre using a CPU in Azure, Microsofts cloud, Davuluri added. Thats not new. Microsoft began talking about this hybrid compute model a few years ago, when Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella opened its Build developer conference by specifically calling out how future applications would combine the cloud and local compute capabilities. At Microsoft, thats now common, with Copilot sneaking into just about everything. But Nadella used his keynote to specifically call out Adobe and apps like Photoshop. And thats exactly what happened, there, top: Photoshop now uses your PCs GPU to modify images, but also calls upon the Adobe cloud for generative AI. Voice is coming back to your PC Davuluri also hearkened further back, stating that Microsoft would expand Windows modalities into speech and vision. Modalities are what Microsoft uses to describe the various ways you interact with your PC: you can touch the screen, type on the keyboard, or move the mouse. More recently, pens have added inking, too. I think we will see computing become more ambient, more pervasive, continue to span form factors and certainly become more multimodal in the arc of time, Davuluri said. I think experience diversity is the next space where we will continue to see voice becoming more important, Davuluri added. I think more fundamentally, the concept that your computer can actually look at your screen and is context aware is going to become an important modality for us going forward. The other thing I think is going to get more intuitive is multimodal interactions. So youll be able to speak to your computer while, you know, writing, inking, interacting with another person. For example, you should be able to have a computer semantically understand your intent to interact with it from when its awake, or to put a machine to sleep. Copilot Vision allows your PC to see apps that you allow it to. Mark Hachman / Foundry Thats a pretty direct reference to Copilot Vision, which can now see your screen and talk to you about it. Microsoft built that from two AI models, Phi and Mu, which are small language models that can run on your PC. Those models not only enable services like Copilot Vision but can also be used to power Microsofts new semantic search options in File Explorer and Settings, which can be changed at a users natural-language request. Microsoft plans to augment those capabilities as assistive technologies, such as evolving Narrator from simply reading words on your screen to actively describing whats going on. With voice and vision being added to ChatGPT and other models, people are finding themselves chatting with AI. Will they feel as comfortable doing so with a PC? Will Surface flourish again? Finally, Davuluri gave a hint (or not) about the future of Microsofts Surface PCs. After the departure of former Windows + Devices chief Panos Panay, some wondered if Microsoft would ever return to the diversity of Surface devices that prompted everything from the Surface Duo to the Surface Laptop Studio both seemingly on hiatus or discontinued. Davuluri didnt offer any clues. I think today one of the things that we celebrate in Windows is the diversity on form factors in which computing is available, for sure, he said. Between the work that the ecosystem partners do and Surface does, we have a pretty broad range of devices in themselves. The U.S. government is discussing whether it will take a stake in beleaguered chipmaker Intel Corp. as a way to bail it out of its financial struggles, according to a report. Bloomberg reported that the two sides were in discussions, but nothing has been decided: not when or even if it could happen, nor the amount of equity Intel would give up or what terms would be attached to the agreement. What does appear to be clear, however, is that the U.S. government is at least talking about taking a direct stake in Intel, which would be a first for the company. In May, the Saudi national AI company Humain a company funded by the sovereign wealth fund of Saudia Arabia formed a joint venture with rival AMD with no direct investment. Saudi Arabia formed a Public Investment Fund (PIF) for those investments. Mubadala Investment Company, one of Abu Dhabis sovereign wealth funds, made an initial investment of $622 million in AMD in 2007 but has since sold its entire stake. The U.S. does not have a direct equivalent to the PIF, though President Trump proposed forming one in February. Its not clear whether such a fund could be authorized and put to use in this scenario. Bloomberg pointed out that the U.S. Department of Defense took a $400 million preferred equity stake in MP Materials Corp., a producer of rare earths a deal that would make the Pentagon the companys largest shareholder and set a precedent for how the government could interact with private companies. Regardless, the talks apparently are a direct consequence of a meeting between Intel chief executive Lip-Bu Tan and Trump at the White House. Trump had called for Tan to step down, citing Tans role as a venture capitalist and his relationships with numerous Chinese companies, some with alleged links to the Chinese government. Doing business with China has always been a sensitive issue for U.S. companies, though Nvidia and AMD both agreed to hand over 15 percent of their revenues from AI chips sold to Chinese companies to allow both to do business there. A day after meeting with Tan, however, Trump praised Tan on Truth Social, calling him and his rise an amazing story. Intels struggles are well known, as the company has weathered layoffs of thousands of employees over the past nine months or so. Intel has cancelled overseas projects and delayed the development of a fab in Ohio, which was supposed to have been funded in part by the U.S. Chips and Science Act. Craig Barrett, Intels former CEO, has also called for a bailout though by Intels customers, not the government. Updated at 2:34 PM with additional detail. Arrests have been made in what authorities believe are a string of Philadelphia heists involving armored Brinks trucks. Oregonian file photo An arrest has been made in a string of boosting jobs in Philadelphia. Three men were taken into custody Wednesday after being accused of stealing $2 million from a Brinks armored truck, police said. According to investigators, the robbery, which took place outside of a Home Depot store, was an inside job, ABC 6 reported. Daishaun Daisha Hughes-Murchison, 30, Brian Wallace, 31, and Trayvine Jackson, 31, all of Philadelphia, were arrested and charged with robbery that interferes with interstate commerce and the use of a firearm in a violent crime, according to police. The three men appeared in court for the first time last week for the robbery, which took place in June. In court, a judge ordered Jackson to be detained, while Wallace and Hughes-Murchison will stand for detention hearings this week. In an email to NBC News, a lawyer for Jackson described his client as a dedicated family man with a long-standing work history and no criminal record. At this early pre-indictment stage, it is premature to comment on what are at this point mere allegations, the lawyer, David Mischak said. The whole thing went down on June 2, where police said the three suspects robbed the Brinks car near the Home Depot in the Port Richmond area. Prosecutors believe that the Brinks driver was walking down an alley behind the Home Depot when the three men revealed themselves, accompanied with AR15-style assault rifles. The trio then forced the driver of the truck to the ground, and took his pistol as well as his keys, according to the authorities. One man kept watch over the driver while the other two took money from the truck. After, the men escaped in two vehicles; one car had temporary Virginia tags. That car was a rental, and was returned a few hours after the robbery. The second car seemingly belongs to Hughes-Murchison, police said. Surveillance video at the car rental company captured Wallace returning the rental and then entering Hughes-Murchisons vehicle. The mens cell records were also pulled by investigators, who found that the men had been making calls in the vicinity of the robbery around that time. Per court records, Brinks officials told investigators that Jackson was an employee with the company but had been suspended and then fired after an internal investigation. As previously reported, authorities are investigating whether this robbery is linked to the armored truck heist in Philadelphia that involved two suspects boosting at least $700,000 in Montgomery County Tuesday morning. A woman abducted her 9-year-old daughter during a supervised visit in Carlisle on Wednesday and took her to the Dauphin County motel where she was living, police said. Sehighya Smith, 34, was supposed to be visiting with her daughter under Cumberland County Children and Youth supervision from 4:406:40 p.m., according to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Carlisle police. But 40 minutes into the visit, the affidavit said, Smith walked out of a counseling center on South Hanover Street, holding her daughters hand. Counseling staff yelled at Smith to stop as she was leaving, court documents said. The staff members provided police with Smiths vehicle information, which was shared with surrounding police departments. An alert was sent out notifying the public that Smiths daughter was missing. Carlisle police said the girl was considered endangered because of previous incidents that happened while Smith was supposed to be caring for her. Around 7:30 p.m., the affidavit said, Susquehanna Township police notified Carlisle police that Smiths vehicle was parked outside the Days Inn on the 3900 block of North Front Street, where the woman had been living. Police said they checked with Days Inn staff, who confirmed Smith was staying at the motel. Court documents said Smith and her daughter were found in a room together. According to the affidavit, Smiths daughter lives with a foster family, and Smith is allowed only supervised visits with the girl. Smith was arrested Wednesday and charged with kidnapping, interfering with a custody agreement and endangering the welfare of a child. Court records show she was arraigned early Thursday morning. She was unable to post $250,000 bail and is being held at Cumberland County Prison. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 27 before Magisterial District Judge Daniel Freedman. UPDATE: This post was updated at 9:52 p.m. with some additional information from Carlisle police. A Cumberland County woman is facing charges after police said she abducted her 9-year-old daughter during a supervised visit in Carlisle. Sehighya Smith abducted her daughter, Milan Gibson, from a family counseling facility along the 200 block of South Hanover Street, police said. The police report did not say when the abduction took place or how long the girl was missing. The girl was found at a hotel in Susquehanna Township, Dauphin County, around 7:30 p.m. and returned to her guardian, according to Carlisle Police Chief Taro Landis. Smith, 34, will be criminally charged with single counts of kidnapping, interfering with custody of a child and child endangerment, Carlisle Police Sgt. Joseph Rucinsky said Wednesday night. Due to previous incidents involving Smiths care of the girl, police said they considered the child to be endangered. On July 10, Hampden Township Police charged Smith, who is identified as a Camp Hill area resident, with endangering the welfare of children, a third-degree felony. Court documents for Wednesdays incident were not immediately available. As a result of the July incident, Smith does not have custody of her daughter and is only allowed supervised visits, police said. Wednesdays visit occurred at Alternative Behavior Consultants, a family support business that counts among its services hosting supervised visits between parents and children in a home-like setting. ABCs Website says those visits are supposed to occur with a respectful parent supervisor in the room at all times. Smith is expected to be arraigned on Thursday morning. Commonwealth Charter Academy's building in Harrisburg. Sarah Anne Hughes / Spotlight PA Editors note: The story was updated on Aug. 14 to add a response from Commonwealth Charter Academy. A former member of the classic R&B vocal The Platters who went missing late last week has now been found. Sandra Hall, 80, disappeared around 4 p.m. Friday after getting on board a subway near the Atlantic Terminal Mall and Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Police and family warned at the time that Hall is suffering from dementia and could be confused about her whereabouts. Sandra is more than just our mother; she is a warm, vibrant woman who once brought joy to audiences as part of The Platters. We just want to bring her home safely, her daughter, Star DaSilva, said to the New York Post at the time. Thankfully, Halls family said on Wednesday to the Post that she had been found at New York Presbyterian Hospital and is doing well. Shes gonna be jailed in the house, Halls granddaughter, Tairese Barrett, said to the outlet. I cant do this again. No way. This was too much. Hall, who went by the name Sandra Dawn at the time, was not a part of the original lineup but joined the group in 1965. She left in 1969. The Platters are known for such hits as Only You, The Great Pretender and My Prayer. When Hall was a member they recorded such songs as With This Ring and Washed Ashore. A man who was killed during a horrific shootout over the weekend in a Frayser neighborhood has been identified by family as Memphis rapper FatCash CMoney. The incident took place one month before he was about to embark on a clean slate. Memphis authorities were called around 12:20 a.m. Sunday to the area of Macaulay Drive and Macaulay Cove for a shooting. When they arrived at the scene, they found several homes struck with gunfire. As officers continued to survey the area, they came across CMoney at the cross streets of Maritavia St. and Georgian Dr., about a half mile away. A family member confirmed Monday morning that the man killed was the rapper. Per a video obtained by Fox13, footage captured cars involved in a shootout at the first location of Macaulay Drive and Macaulay Cove. In the footage, multiple shots are heard and seen coming from the cars, with one of the cars eventually backing up with the passenger door still open. He was part of the rap duo known as the FatCash Boyz. TMZ obtained federal documents from 2019 confirming that the up-and-coming rapper real name Cordney Smith was slated to be released from federal probation on September 29 after he and 17 other FatCash members were convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud and Conspiracy to Possess and Attempt to Possess with Intent to Distribute Marijuana. He was found guilty of helping the criminal enterprise defraud a bank of over $240,000 and conspiracy to move more than 100 kilos of weed. As a result, he served an 18-month prison sentence before getting released on probation. 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) AP By Jeff Martin, Heather Hollingsworth and John Seewer, The Associated Press ATLANTA 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 shouldnt 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 informationabout 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. Pedestrians comfort each other after a shooting near the campuses of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Emory University, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Atlanta. (Jenni Girtman/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) AP 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 CDCs new director told employees this week that no act of violence can diminish their mission to protect public health. 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) AP 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. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., center, visits the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. (Arvin Temkar/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) AP 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. Rescue workers and residents search through the rubble following an explosion in Idlib, Syria, Aug. 14, 2025. (Str/Xinhua) DAMASCUS, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- A powerful explosion shook the countryside of Syria's Idlib province on Thursday, killing at least four people and injuring five others, according to Syrian state media and a war monitoring group. The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency said the blast occurred near Idlib city, citing an initial toll from the health authorities. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that multiple explosions erupted in the western countryside of Idlib, triggered by a blast at an ammunition depot and a facility used by foreign fighters in farmlands west of the city. The explosions coincided with the overflight of a drone in the area, the monitor said. Thick plumes of smoke were seen rising over the site, causing panic among residents and passersby. Local reports described people fleeing the area amid fears of further blasts. Emergency crews and civil defense teams rushed to the scene, while security forces cordoned off the vicinity. The observatory said the death toll could rise, noting that similar incidents have caused heavy casualties in the past. It recalled that on July 24, a series of explosions in a nearby location killed at least 12 people, including a woman and child, and injured more than 100 others after munitions stored by foreign fighters detonated. Hospitals in Idlib issued urgent appeals for blood donations. Rescue teams continued efforts to clear debris and search for victims late into the day. The blast site lies close to camps sheltering displaced Syrians from across the country, heightening fears for civilian safety, according to the observatory. Rescue workers and residents search through the rubble following an explosion in Idlib, Syria, Aug. 14, 2025. (Str/Xinhua) Rescue workers and residents search through the rubble following an explosion in Idlib, Syria, Aug. 14, 2025. (Str/Xinhua) By Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News (TNS) NEW YORK An upstate New York man made four calls threatening UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompsons family in the days after the executive was shot to death 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 killing, according to the feds. He then made one more call on each of the following three days, investigators said. A reward poster hung on a light pole outside the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan, New York, after Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, was fatally shot in December 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah, file) AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah In one of those calls, Daley told Thompsons family member in an expletive-filled tirade that he was killed for profiting off the backs of poor Americans, the Albany Times-Union reported. 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. 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. The suspect, 27-year-old Luigi Mangione, was arrested days later in Pennsylvania. He is facing federal and state murder charges in connection with the attack. Disdain for U.S. insurance companies was among Mangiones motives for the killing, police said, citing hid handwritten manifesto. Frankly, these parasites simply had it coming, the document read in part. Want a say in the news? Email Claudia at todayinpa@pennlive.com to have your thoughts on the stories covered here or on PennLive heard. You can listen to the latest episode of Today in Pa on any of your favorite apps including Alexa, Apple, Spotify, Stitcher and YouTube. Episodes are available every weekday on PennLive. Feel free to subscribe, follow or rate Today in Pa. as you see fit! Today in Pa. Daily Podcast | August 14, 2025 Kia and Hyundai thefts are spiking, again. One borough wants to use a crime-fighting drone to aid police. The state is mulling over how to moderate cellphone use in schools. Plus, some of you might have seen that weird spiral in the sky the other night. Those are the stories we cover in the latest episode of Today in Pa., a daily weekday podcast from PennLive.com and hosted by Claudia Dimuro. Today in Pa. is dedicated to sharing the most important and interesting stories pertaining to Pennsylvania that lets you know, indeed, whats happening today in Pa. Todays episode refers to the following articles: If you enjoy Today in Pa., consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts or on Amazon. Reviews help others find the show and, besides, wed like to know what you think about the program, too. As expected, Pennsylvania House Democrats on Wednesday shot down Senate Republican bills that would have flat-funded the state budget now seven weeks overdue and used yet-to-be-expended capital dollars to fund the operating costs of struggling transit agencies. The House called two committee meetings on Wednesday to quash, on party-line voting, the pair of bills that the Senate had sent over the night before. SEPTA the Philadelphia metro areas transit agency has said it would need a funding fix by tomorrow in order to avoid starting drastic service cuts, an issue that has pushed budget concerns into overdrive. Dozens of units including rescue units, fire police and paramedics were sent to the area of Bahn Avenue and Southview Drive in New Salem Borough at 4:17 p.m. for the report of a person who had fallen into this trench. Community Vol. Fire Co. #1 - Station 8 York New Salem Emergency crews rescued a person who had fallen into a trench on Wednesday afternoon in a York County residential neighborhood. York New Salem Fire Company reported on its Facebook page that units were sent to the area of Bahn Avenue and Southview Drive in New Salem Borough at 4:17 p.m., and the first arriving units located a subject who had fallen to the bottom of an 8-foot trench and was unable to get out. It was also confirmed that the soil did not collapse and that the person had not been buried at the location in the 3900 block of Bahn Avenue. Special operations personnel placed trench panels and struts to secure the soil from collapsing due to the lack of a trench box, according to the Facebook post. Once the trench was secured, the subject was packaged and extricated from the trench via a rope system. Extrication was completed within 90 minutes of the first ATR assets (Rescue Squad 9) arrival. The subject was transported to a local trauma center with non-life-threatening injuries, the fire company said. The rescue took about 90 minutes to complete, according to the York New Salem First Department. York New Salem Fire Department The fire company thanked the members of the York County Advanced Technical Rescue and those from surrounding police and fire departments who assisted with the rescue. Somewhere in the mosh pit of malaise over Harrisburgs horrible downtown and Pennsylvanias pathetic standing among states, there must be a thread of thought suggesting somethings gotta be done. Time to pull on that thread and start stitching together a better city and a better state. How long can we whine about downtowns decline Harrisburg is ranked the nations 35th worst state capital by the finance website WalletHub before looking to do something about it? How many studies like U.S. News & World Reports Best States in 2025, showing Pennsylvania a bottom-dwelling 41st down a notch from last year do we need before seeking accountability and change? Why does a capital allow the vibrancy of a restaurant row to be driven out? Why does a state legislature consistently prove itself incapable of even the basics, such as passing annual budgets on time? All cities have crime, homelessness, housing and poverty issues. But not all cities host a full-time 253-member Legislature with its 2,300-plus staff, plenty of whom spend lots of time in Harrisburg and therefore should be very open to helping make the city safe, livable and lively. The COVID-impact aftermath and working remotely notwithstanding, those on both sides, in city government and in the Legislature, are just not trying hard enough. Its clear more is needed. Call it what it is. Collective failure by elected leaders. That would be the mayor, the governor, city council and the Legislature. Failure to focus on obvious needs. Failure to be innovative. And, importantly, since the city is run by Democrats and the state is politically divided, failure to cut through partisanship to find ways to focus and innovate. Ill grant the political moment is hard to navigate. No trust anywhere. Little if any cooperation. Mostly governance by ideological thrust. Which is why, if change is going to happen, it must be locally driven. In Harrisburgs case, that seems to be happening, though one wonders what took so long. In May, Harrisburg Regional Chamber & Capital Region Economic Development Corporation boss Ryan Unger announced local state lawmakers and economic development officials would partner with the city to come up with a downtown revitalization plan by fall. This after some deep reporting on Harrisburgs ills by PennLive in April. Now, PennLive is sponsoring a community forum Aug. 18 with local stakeholders and nationally recognized urban planner Tripp Muldrow, of Arnett Muldrow & Associates, Greenville, S.C., whose firm helped revitalize downtown Lancaster. The public event, previously scheduled at the former Federal Taphouse on Second St., is to be held at Harrisburg University, 326 Market St., on the 11th floor from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday. Its free (space is limited) and is to be livestreamed on PennLive and its Facebook and YouTube pages. The fear, of course, is jazzing up what turns out to be just short-term interest. Or producing another plan to put on a shelf. The hope is that the realization that local involvement and community pressure can lead to positive change even in a downtown elected officials seem to ignore. The same, Id argue, applies to seeking broader state reforms. Such as providing incentives for timely budgets. Like no pay for lawmakers, not even retroactively, when budgets are late. Real change takes time and commitment. Since our Legislature has no interest in real change budget reforms, term limits, campaign finance limits, redistricting reforms, merit selection of judges, ending lawmakers automatic annual pay raises for starters the only answer it upward pressure. It takes interest. It takes work. The option is involvement or even just support of grassroots, nonpartisan efforts to push for needed changes those we elect fail to enact. Or, keep voting for the same people and getting the same sad results. John Baer may be reached at baer.columnist@gmail.com Agents with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as Metropolitan Police wait in a parking lot before driving along Kennedy Street NW in a caravan, in the early morning of Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in northwest Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP By Lindsay Whitehurst and Ashraf Khalil, The Associated Press WASHINGTON As a wary Washington waited, the White House promised a ramp-up of National Guard troops and federal officers on the streets of the nations capital around the clock this week after President Donald Trumps unprecedented announcement that his administration would take over the citys police department for at least a month. The citys Democratic mayor walked a political tightrope, referring to the takeover as an authoritarian push at one point and later framing the infusion of officers as a boost to public safety, though one with few specific barometers for success. The Republican president has said crime in the city was at emergency levels that only such federal intervention could fix even as District of Columbia leaders pointed to statistics showing violent crime at a 30-year low after a sharp rise two years ago. For two days, small groups of federal officers have been visible in scattered areas of the city. But a significant increase was expected on Wednesday at the Guards armory and troops were expected to start doing more missions in Washington on Thursday, according to a Guard spokesman who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the planning process. Hundreds of federal law enforcement and city police officers who patrolled the streets Tuesday night made 43 arrests, compared with about two dozen the night before. D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson downplayed the arrest reports as a bunch of traffic stops and said the administration was seeking to disguise how unnecessary this federal intervention is. Im looking at this list of arrests, and they sound like a normal Saturday night in any big city, said Henderson. Federal law enforcement agents from various agencies including Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Park Police, and FBI, question a couple who had been parked outside a legal parking zone while eating McDonald's takeout, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in northwest Washington near Kennedy St. NW. The couple were released after a search of the car. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP In one neighborhood, officers from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI could be seen along with the U.S. Park Police searching the car of a motorist parked just outside a legal parking area to eat takeout and drop off a friend. Two blocks away, U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers gathered in a parking lot before driving off on patrol. In other parts of the city, including those with popular nightlife hot spots, federal patrols were harder to find. At the National Mall, there was little law enforcement activity aside from Park Police cruisers pulling over a taxi driver near the Washington Monument. Unlike in other U.S. states and cities, the law gives Trump the power to take over Washingtons police for up to 30 days. Extending his power over the city for longer would require approval from Congress, and that could be tough in the face of Democratic resistance. Trump suggested that he could seek a longer period of control or decide to call on Congress to exercise authority over city laws his administration sees as lax on crime. Were gonna do this very quickly. But were gonna want extensions. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, he said. Henderson, who worked for Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York before running for the D.C. Council, said she was already in touch with friends on the Hill to rally opposition for any Trump extension request. She added, Its Day Three and hes already saying hes going to need more time? Targeting a variety of infractions The arrests made by 1,450 federal and local officers across the city included those for suspicion of driving under the influence and unlawful entry, as well as a warrant for assault with a deadly weapon, according to the White House. Seven illegal firearms were seized. There have now been more than 100 arrests since Trump began beefing up the federal law enforcement presence in Washington last week, White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers said. President Trump is delivering on his campaign promise to clean up this city and restore American Greatness to our cherished capital, she said. The president has full command of the National Guard and has activated up to 800 troops to support law enforcement, though exactly what form remains to be determined. Vehicles with law enforcement agents from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as Metropolitan Police drive along Kennedy Street NW, in the early morning of Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Petworth neighborhood of Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP Neither Army nor District of Columbia National Guard officials have been able to describe the training backgrounds of the troops who have so far reported for duty. While some members are military police, others likely hold jobs that would have offered them little training in dealing with civilians or law enforcement. The federalization push also includes clearing out encampments for people who are homeless, Trump has said. U.S. Park Police have removed dozens of tents since March, and plan to take out two more this week, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has said. People are offered the chance to go to shelters and get addiction treatment, if needed, but those who refuse could be fined or jailed, she said. City officials said they are making more shelter space available and increasing their outreach. Violent crime has dropped in the district The federal effort comes even after a drop in violent crime in the nations capital, a trend that experts have seen in cities across the U.S. since an increase during the coronavirus pandemic. On average, the level of violence Washington remains mostly higher than averages in three dozen cities analyzed by the nonprofit Council on Criminal Justice, said the groups president and CEO, Adam Gelb. Police Chief Pamela Smith said during an interview with the local Fox affiliate that the citys Metro Police Department has been down nearly 800 officers. She said the increased number of federal agents on the streets would help fill that gap, at least for now. Mayor Muriel Bowser said city officials did not get any specific goals for the surge during a meeting with Trumps attorney general, Pam Bondi, and other top federal law enforcement officials Tuesday. But, she said, I think they regard it as a success to have more presence and take more guns off the street, and we do too. Agents from various agencies including Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Park Police, and FBI, question a couple who had been parked outside a legal parking zone while eating McDonald's takeout, Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025, in northwest Washington near Kennedy St. NW. The couple were released after a search of the car. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) AP She had previously called Trumps moves unsettling and unprecedented while pointing out he was within a presidents legal rights regarding the district, which is the seat of American government but is not a state. For some residents, the increased presence of law enforcement and National Guard troops is nerve-racking. Ive seen them right here at the subway ... they had my street where I live at blocked off yesterday, actually, Washington native Sheina Taylor said. Its more fearful now because even though youre a law-abiding citizen, here in D.C., you dont know, especially because Im African American. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin and Will Weissert, photographer Jacquelyn Martin and video journalist River Zhang contributed to this report. Janelle Stelson, a candidate for Pa's 10th Congressional District, has switched her voter registration from Lancaster County to Cumberland County. Stelson, seen here outside a polling place last year, ran from outside the PA 10th in 2024. April 23, 2024. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Congressional candidate Janelle Stelson can now say with certainty she has increased her voter base in Pennsylvanias 10th House District. For unlike in 2024, during Stelsons first run against incumbent U.S. Rep. Scott Perry, Stelson will now be able to vote for herself. Stelson, the former WGAL News news anchor couldnt do that last year because she lived outside of the district in Manheim Township, Lancaster County. Stelsons longtime home there is in the 11th Congressional District. Running from outside the district - while acceptable under the Constitution - seemed to be an unforced error by the political novice last year, from the Democratic Party primary through the general election. Stelson addressed the residency question earlier this year by moving into a creekside home on East Pennsboro Township, Cumberland County. Now shes a 10th District voter too. Cumberland County voter registration records confirm Stelson, 65, registered on Aug. 8 to vote in East Pennsboro Townships 1st Precinct. Stelson continues to retain ownership of her Lancaster County home. But she has established residency at the rented home along the Conodoguinet Creek. The voter registration application required Stelson to sign a declaration that she will have lived at (the listed address) for at least 30 days before casting a vote at the new polling place. Stelsons campaign, in a statement, noted the switch, but also restated their 2024 case that she has always had south central Pennsylvania bona fides: Over the past 39 years, Janelle has lived in New Cumberland, Susquehanna Township, Camp Hill, Uptown Harrisburg, and Downtown Harrisburg. Earlier this year, Janelle moved back to Camp Hill (the mailing address for that section of East Pennsboro) and rents a house there. It is now her home. Stelson, 65, came achingly close to winning the state Capitol regions Congressional seat in 2024, losing to Perry by little more than 1 percentage point. It was one of the closest House races in the nation. Even though the Democratic Party primary is nearly a year away, the mere prospect of a rematch has excited the national political ecosphere. With Perry underperforming Trumps 5.2 percentage point margin of victory in the 10th by nearly four points in 2024, Democrats continue to see the district as tantalizingly within reach as they seek seats to flip in the coming mid-term cycle. The non-partisan Cook Political Report lists the Pa. 10th as one of 18 toss-up districts where its analysts believe the battle for the 2027-28 House majority will turn. While Stelson supporters hope the registration switch will eliminate a negative for the campaign going forward, Perry campaign spokesman Matt Beynon was dismissive. In a statement emailed to PennLive Wednesday, he said, in part: She can rent all the apartments she wants; Voters know she isnt invested in the 10th congressional district and never will be. Janelle Stelson should go back to Lancaster County - where she still owns her home and pays property taxes. Stelson moved to Pennsylvania in 1986, to join the staff at Harrisburgs ABC television affiliate. With the exception of a brief stint in Miami, shes been here ever since, including a 27-year run with WGAL, the regions top-rated station, that ended in 2023 when she announced her first run for Congress. A cold front moving into the region produced localized heavy rainfall and isolated severe weather conditions. Lancaster County was under a flash flood warning for several hours on Wednesday evening, and Chester Countys flood warning was in effect until 11 p.m. Montgomery County, north of Philadelphia, was under a flash flood warning until 1 a.m. Thursday. Out in western Pennsylvania, rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches prompted a flash flood warning in Beaver and Butler counties until 11:45 p.m. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will continue into the late evening hours, but most areas will stay dry. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible again on Thursday, mainly in the afternoon, for locations roughly along and south of Interstate 80. pic.twitter.com/4QoumnITfm NWS State College (@NWSStateCollege) August 13, 2025 Temperatures ranged from the upper 70s in northern areas to the low 90s in the southeast, with heat indices approaching 100 degrees in the Lower Susquehanna Valley. A cold front approaching from the north was predicted to stall over the state tonight, creating conditions for potential flash flooding. While antecedent dry conditions will mitigate some flooding risks, localized areas could experience significant rainfall. The weather pattern will shift on Thursday, with the cold front continuing to move slowly southeast. Thunderstorm chances will decrease, particularly in northwestern areas where dewpoints will drop into the mid-50s. Friday will bring temporary relief with lower humidity and cooler morning temperatures, potentially dropping into the 40s in the coldest northwestern regions. Looking ahead to the weekend, Saturday will see a return of moisture and potential afternoon thunderstorms along the Appalachian region. A more substantial cold front is expected on Sunday, which could generate scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms across the area. Highs, per the National Weather Service, will be near 90 degrees Thursday through Saturday and in the low to mid-90s on Sunday. The current weather pattern continues a trend of hot, above-normal temperatures expected to persist through mid-August. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, monitor local weather updates, and be prepared for rapid changes in weather conditions, particularly during afternoon and evening hours. Current weather radar Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by PennLive.com staff. PRAIA, Cape Verde, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The World Bank has approved 10 million U.S. dollars in emergency assistance to support Cape Verde's response to heavy rains that have left eight people dead and three others missing, Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva has said. In a post on his official social media page Wednesday, Correia e Silva said the aid was activated under a cooperation program aimed at supporting the government's efforts toward a resilient and equitable economic recovery, with the World Bank authorizing an immediate disbursement. He thanked the World Bank Group for its "swift response" to Cape Verde's request and its "strong sense of solidarity" in addressing urgent social and infrastructure needs to protect communities and rebuild with greater resilience. The Cape Verdean government has declared a state of emergency on the islands of Sao Vicente, Santo Antao and Sao Nicolau, where heavy rains and flooding have caused significant material damage in addition to the casualties. Queens of Tallinn Returns w/ PokerNews Queens Crown Debut this August Calum Grant Senior Editor & Live Events Executive Copy link Europes first ladies-only poker festival is back in the Estonian capital, as the Queens of Tallinn returns to Hilton Tallinn Park & Olympic Park Casino from August 2124 for its third consecutive year. Hosted by OlyBet, the four-day celebration of women in poker features a packed schedule of ten tournaments, with buy-ins ranging from Free Entry to 350, plus plenty of cash game action for those who want to keep the cards in the air. Queens of Tallinn Full Schedule Date Time (EEST) Event Buy-in Notes Thurs, Aug 21 17:00 Queens of Tallinn 2025 Meet and Greet - - Thurs, Aug 21 17:30 80 NLH Deep Stack Queens of Tallinn 2025 Opening Event 70+10 Includes 350 Main Event Ticket Raffle Thurs, Aug 21 21:00 Free Entry Satellite to NLH 350 Queens of Tallinn Main Event Free Entry, Rebuys & 20 AO 5 x 350 Seats GTD Fri, Aug 22 13:00 Free Entry Satellite to NLH 350 Queens of Tallinn Main Event Free Entry, Rebuys & 20 AO 5 x 350 Seats GTD Fri, Aug 22 15:00 350 Queens of Tallinn 2025 Main Event 1A 310+40 Plays 9 Levels Day 1 Fri, Aug 22 18:00 Free Entry Turbo Satellite to NLH 350 Queens of Tallinn Main Event 1B Free Entry, Rebuys & 20 AO 5 x 350 Seats GTD Fri, Aug 22 21:00 350 Queens of Tallinn 2025 Main Event 1B 310+40 Plays 9 Levels Day 1 Fri, Aug 22 21:00 150 PLO4/PLO5 130+20 - Sat, Aug 23 12:00 350 Queens of Tallinn 2025 Main Event Day 2 310+40 Reg & Re-Entries Open until 14:20! Playing down to Final 9 Sat, Aug 23 14:30 Free Entry Satellite to 200 PokerNews Queens Crown Free Entry, Rebuys & 20 AO 5 x 200 Seats GTD Sat, Aug 23 17:30 200 NLH PokerNews Queens Crown 170+30 - Sat, Aug 23 21:00 200 NLH, Open to All 170+30 - Sun, Aug 24 12:00 350 Queens of Tallinn 2025 Main Event Final Day 310+40 - Sun, Aug 24 12:00 250 NLH Progressive Bounty, 100 Progressive Bounties 220+30 - The 350 Queens of Tallinn Main Event The festivals crown jewel is the 350 Queens of Tallinn Main Event, a two-day women-only tournament that will crown the next poker queen of 2025. Day 1 is split into two starting flights on Friday, August 22, with players battling through nine levels to advance. Survivors return on Saturday for Day 2, where late registration and re-entries remain open until 2:20 p.m. The final table plays out on Sunday, August 24, when one player will walk away with the title and a chunk of the prize pool. Players can secure their Main Event seat through a mix of online satellites at OlyBet Poker every Tuesday and Saturday, as well as several free entry live satellites running throughout the festival. Jenny Westerlund Wins Record-Breaking WSOPC Main Event in Tallinn PokerNews Queens Crown Makes Its Debut For the first time, PokerNews is bringing its name to the felt in Tallinn with the PokerNews Queens Crown, a 200 NLH deepstack that promises to be one of the most hotly contested events of the festival. This marks PokerNews latest step in supporting womens poker, providing a new stage for female players to compete, connect, and showcase their skills. Players can book their seat directly or secure one through a free entry satellite at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, with 5 x 200 seats guaranteed. The main event itself takes place later that day at 5:30 p.m. Satellites and Ways to Qualify Those aiming for the Main Event can win their way in through Online Satellite Finals at OlyBet Poker every Tuesday and Saturday. Onsite, multiple free entry live satellites are scheduled, each offering guaranteed seats to the 350 Main Event. For players looking to start small, the online platform also offers daily Queens Centrolls, giving everyone a shot at qualifying on a budget. Tallinns Newest Queen Reflects on WSOPC Win Team Challenge Adds Extra Competition The Queens of Tallinn 2025 Team Challenge will once again be in play. Two percent of each women-only tournament prize pool (with 12+ unique players, excluding satellites) is set aside for the Team prize pool, with payouts going to the Top three teams. Teams earn additional points whenever their members cash in women-only events. A History of the Queens of Tallinn Saara Benlamine The inaugural Queens of Tallinn was held in the winter of 2023, where Marta Porta made history by topping the 65-entry field for a 6,167 ($6,741) payday. Porta also secured another trophy after triumphing in the 60 NLH/PLO mixed event. In total, the first edition paid out 37,507 across seven events. The festival saw even greater success the following year, with 38,806 awarded across the events. The Main Event saw increased participation, with 85 entries. Benlamine from Finland triumphed in a heads-up battle against Ausra Razmaite, claiming the title of Queen of Tallinn and a 5,148 ($5,564) prize, along with the lasting legacy of being crowned the reigning queen. Images courtesy of Elena Kask Share this article SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. Just click here. Vice President JD Vance's handling of the press is masterful, and some of his interactions with them have taken on iconic status. For example, in January, Vance was being interviewed by Margaret Brennan on "Face the Nation." While asking Vance about the Trump administration's immigration policies, Brennan protested that Afghan refugees who were not being allowed to come to the United States had been "heavily vetted." Vance pushed back, pointing out that an Afghani man who had planned a terrorist attack in Oklahoma was said to have been "properly vetted." When Brennan countered, saying that it wasn't clear whether that immigrant had been "radicalized" before or after he came to the U.S., Vance cut her off: "I really don't care, Margaret," he said. "I don't want that person in my country, and I think most Americans agree with me." That exchange became an instant meme. Vance is only continuing the straight-talking style he utilized on the campaign trail. Last October, in an interview with Vance, ABC News' Martha Raddatz downplayed the threats posed by the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gangs in Aurora, Colorado, which then-presidential candidate Donald Trump had characterized as having "overrun" the city. "The incidents were limited to a handful of apartment complexes," Raddatz insisted. Those "incidents" not only in Colorado but other states where TdA operates included widespread sex trafficking and forced prostitution, arms and drug dealing, contract killings, automobile theft, violent assaults and extortion. Vance's response was perfect. "Martha, do you hear yourself? Only 'a handful of apartment complexes' in America were taken over by Venezuelan gangs, and Donald Trump is the problem? ..." "Do you hear yourself?" hasn't gone viral the way "I really don't care, Margaret" did. But it should. In fact, it should be Republicans' primary campaign theme as they move toward the 2026 midterms, because Democrats' statements, their policies, the groups they defend, and their knee-jerk opposition to anything and everything President Trump does make them sound just as ridiculous as Raddatz trying to handwave over the violent crime caused by a foreign gang in a Colorado city. The first few months of the Trump administration provide countless examples. This week, Trump sent the National Guard into Washington, D.C., after a series of high-profile attacks including murders of a congressional intern and two Israeli embassy workers earlier this year in the nation's capital. Despite a reduction in violent crime since its all-time high in 2023, D.C.'s crime rate is still high. (And some of the reduction is attributable to gentrification of the city's poorest areas.) You'd think that efforts to make the city safer for its residents, lawmakers and their staff, foreign diplomats and hundreds of thousands of tourists who visit each year would be something about which Republicans and Democrats could agree. But no. Democrats like D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser are more interested in bashing Trump. Bowser called Trump's action "authoritarian." D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith couldn't even provide a response when a reporter asked what the new chain of command would be with the National Guard involved in D.C. policing; she said, "What does that mean?" New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries said, "Donald Trump ... has zero credibility on the issue of law and order. Get lost." Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi tried to dredge up her lies about having the National Guard in D.C. on Jan. 6, 2021. Do Democrats hear themselves? Their tone-deaf comments are constant. Law-abiding Americans have to worry about their safety because Democrats' policies favor criminals, both foreign and domestic. While Americans are outraged about crimes committed by people here illegally crimes that include drunk driving, violent assault, rape and murder Democrats express deep concern about those criminals being sent back to their home countries or to a maximum security prison in El Salvador. While Americans who own businesses suffer retail theft that costs them (and the country) tens of billions of dollars each year, Democrats like those in California advocate for policies that reduce shoplifting to a misdemeanor and give thieves a slap on the wrist. (And that is if they are prosecuted at all.) Democrat-controlled legislatures in New York and Illinois enacted laws eliminating cash bail. In some cities (including Washington, D.C.), Democrat prosecutors have bonds set ridiculously low or refuse to prosecute certain crimes at all. As a result, criminals are back on the street. Similarly, Americans watch in horror as downtowns in our major cities are destroyed by homelessness, filth and rampant, open drug use. Those situations were created or exacerbated by policies Democrats called "compassionate." Across the country, Democrats purport to be incensed about Republicans redrawing congressional districts, even though Democrats have used their political power to gerrymander voting districts to favor Democrat candidates for decades. In Texas, Democratic Party legislators illegally left the state, trying to prevent the legislature from acting. This is apparently something Democrats do when they don't have a majority; Wisconsin Democrats pulled a similar stunt in 2011. Haven't Democrats been saying for years that subverting the legislative process is "dangerous to our democracy"? When Republicans try to pass and enforce common-sense laws that protect election integrity (requiring voter identification, proof of citizenship, postmarks and matched signatures on mailed-in ballots), Democrats throw hissy fits, claiming that the laws disenfranchise legitimate voters. That's complete garbage. You have to have an ID to buy a beer, drive a car or board an airplane. The real problem is that it prevents noncitizens from voting, improper ballot harvesting and absentee voting fraud. Democrats are so hell-bent on opposing Trump that they have reduced themselves to caricatures. Their policies are antithetical to the safety and prosperity of Americans. They have lost the plot and according to recent polls the confidence of the American public. If other Republicans are as adept as Vance at calling out the lunacy on the left, Democrats will lose more elections as well. (COMMENT, BELOW) Laura Hollis is an attorney and academic. She resides in Indiana with her husband and their two children. MAPUTO, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Mozambican President Daniel Chapo has called for more transparent, inclusive, and sustainable local governance, urging municipalities to strengthen citizen participation, boost economic resilience, and ensure no one is left behind in development efforts. Speaking on Thursday in the capital, Maputo, at the opening of the 14th National Meeting of Municipalities, Chapo praised progress in decentralization but warned of persistent challenges, including post-election unrest that damaged infrastructure and eroded public trust. He highlighted the importance of decentralization as a pillar of democratic governance and a driver of improved public services, revenue collection, and citizen engagement. "With the municipalization process, decision-making power is closer to local communities, allowing greater participation in identifying and solving their problems," he said. The president emphasized the need for municipalities to share best practices in transparent revenue management, urban planning, infrastructure rehabilitation, waste management, and environmental protection. Chapo cited the recently launched Local Economic Development Fund and a land development project in Vilanculos, Inhambane Province, as examples of initiatives to strengthen municipal capacity and attract investment. "We want strong, financially sustainable, technologically innovative municipalities that can generate jobs for youth and women, improve quality of life, and act as true hubs of local economic development," he said. The three-day forum has gathered local and national authorities, development partners, and other stakeholders to assess progress in municipal governance and chart solutions for the next phase of Mozambique's decentralization process. by Xinhua writer Gao Zhu BEIJING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The summer of 2025 has tested China with familiar yet intensifying climate challenges, from heavy rainfall in some northern areas to persistent inland heat, with global warming adding to the variability. While shifting climate patterns have posed challenges, the country's responses have reflected long-term efforts in ecological protection, green development and disaster preparedness, positioning it well to manage a season of volatile weather. RISING AWARENESS Notably, 2024 was the hottest year on record globally, with warming and El Nino contributing to evident anomalies in many parts of China, thereby underscoring the need for urgency in strengthening adaptation capacity, said a June report from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. China, keenly aware of changes in climate and their impact on daily life, has put effective climate adaptation and response high on its government agenda. At policy level, policymakers are embedding climate considerations across planning and emergency management -- under a climate framework set through 2035 that pairs greenhouse gas cuts with climate risk management. A resolution adopted at a tone-setting plenum in July last year further called for improving the working system for adapting to climate change. Urban adaptation is being pushed forward through a network of climate-adaptive city pilots, with 39 cities nationwide advancing integrated measures that combine infrastructure with environmental factors. As a part of these efforts, more Chinese cities are adopting what is known as the sponge city approach, which entails absorbing rain during wet periods, storing and purifying it in normal times, and releasing it in dry seasons to boost flood resilience. Gong Yongwei, a professor at Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, said sponge city projects should be effectively integrated with large-scale urban flood control and drainage systems to provide a more comprehensive response to waterlogging. RESTORING RESILIENCE Beyond cities, decades of ecological restoration, including large-scale afforestation, grassland and wetland programs, have managed to curb desertification, improve local climates and turn restored landscapes into natural buffers that help cope with pressures and challenges stemming from issues related to weather and climate impacts. The country now boasts a total forest area of 283.7 million hectares, with forest coverage exceeding 25 percent of its total land area -- up from a mere 12 percent in the early 1980s. China is also home to the world's largest total human-made forest area. In 2024 alone, China planted 4.45 million hectares of trees and improved 3.22 million hectares of grassland. Home to nearly one-fifth of the world's population, China's green transformation carries global significance. Also, in the period from 2016 to 2023, China provided 24.5 billion U.S. dollars in climate funding to other developing countries. Zhang Yunfei, a researcher at Renmin University of China, said China's unwavering push for green cooperation is delivering tangible benefits to more countries and regions, with its development philosophy offering broad inspiration for the Global South. TECH-POWERED RISK REDUCTION China's growing ability to manage climate risks is closely tied to advances in meteorological science and technology. The country operates the world's largest integrated weather monitoring network -- via nine meteorological satellites in orbit, 546 weather radars and over 70,000 ground observation stations. This smart forecasting system delivers nationwide coverage at 5-kilometer resolution, with 93-percent accuracy in terms of heavy rain alerts and a 43-minute lead time for severe convective weather. Accuracy in forecasting typhoon movement also remains among the best globally. Recent examples show how these systems translate into real-world risk reduction. Ahead of Typhoon Wipha's landfall in Guangdong Province in south China on July 20, early warnings prompted the city of Taishan to suspend port operations, halt outdoor work at construction sites and evacuate residents from dangerous housing in advance. During Typhoon Gaemi's presence in east China's Fujian Province in 2024, meanwhile, staged forecasts enabled the relocation of over 300,000 residents from high-risk areas. Experts say China's early meteorological warning system, rooted in national conditions and practical experience, offers an efficient model for disaster prevention that has gained global recognition as a valuable approach to tackling the climate change. Internationally, in support of the United Nations Early Warnings for All Initiative, China released an action plan in November 2024 to advance open regional early-warning cooperation and strengthen information sharing, resource allocation and action coordination. The Socastee Swing Bridge was the site of filming for the Outer Banks on July 29, 2025, in the Socastee community near Myrtle Beach. The Netflix series had to cut things short though due to a summer storm. Senior Politics Reporter Caitlin Byrd is the senior politics reporter at The Post and Courier. An award-winning journalist, Byrd previously worked as an enterprise reporter for The State newspaper, where she covered the Charleston region and South Carolina politics. Raised in eastern North Carolina, she has called South Carolina home since 2016. Nick Reynolds covers politics for the Post and Courier. A native of Central New York, he spent three-and-a-half years covering politics in Wyoming before joining the paper in late 2021. His work has appeared in outlets like Newsweek, Poynter, the Associated Press, and the Washington Post. He lives in Columbia. JOHANNESBURG, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has denounced the "South Africa 2024 Human Rights Report" issued by the United States as inaccurate and deeply flawed, saying that it fails to reflect the reality of the country's constitutional democracy. "The report's reliance on contextual information and discredited accounts is highly concerning. It cites an incident involving the deaths of farm workers and, despite the matter being actively adjudicated by our independent judiciary, misleadingly presents it as an extrajudicial killing," DIRCO said. The 21-page report, released by the U.S. government on Wednesday, claims that "the human rights situation in South Africa significantly worsened during the year," following the expropriation of land belonging to Afrikaners and "abuses against racial minorities." It also alleged that there had been "extrajudicial killings," citing media reports of criminal suspects killed in shoot-outs with police, particularly in the country's KwaZulu-Natal Province. DIRCO refuted the claim, saying that it is not only premature but a fundamental distortion of the facts, as the individuals are formally arraigned before a court of law. "Similarly, incidents of police using force are mentioned without acknowledging the robust processes in place, where institutions designed to protect our democracy are actively investigating whether due process was followed and if such force was warranted," said the department. Additionally, it noted the report's position on the Expropriation Act and how it differs from that of the United Nations, pointing out that the UN Human Rights Office has described the act as "a critical step in addressing the country's racially imbalanced land ownership." PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 19:10:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 711 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Imagine Asking Hitler for Permission to Show Nazi War CrimesNEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF) strongly condemns the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for its decision to withdraw the Israeli documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue from its lineup.The film, which documents the personal accounts of survivors and victims of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, was removed from the festival after TIFF cited a lack of copyright clearance for footage shot by Hamas through terrorists' body-worn cameras during the attack.AJCF leaders called the decision "morally outrageous" and likened it to demanding permission from Nazi perpetrators to document Holocaust crimes."TIFF's reasoning is the moral equivalent of asking Holocaust survivors to secure Adolf Hitler's written consent to show Nazi-shot footage of concentration camps," said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. "Copyright law was never intended to protect the perpetrators of mass atrocities from accountability, yet TIFF's decision does precisely that." Based in Oswiecim, Poland, adjacent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is dedicated to Holocaust remembrance, combating antisemitism, and preserving historical truth. The organization warned that requiring documentation rights from those who commit atrocities sets a dangerous precedent that could obstruct efforts to preserve memory and justice."As the child of Holocaust survivors, I am appalled," said AJCF Chairman Simon Bergson. "My parents lived through a time when the world looked away and when documenting Nazi crimes was itself a struggle against indifference. TIFF's decision is a betrayal of that history. You do not ask mass murderers for the rights to show their crimes-you expose those crimes so the world can never deny them." The AJCF emphasized that the footage in question had already been widely disseminated through platforms such as X and Telegram and is frequently used in news reporting and documentaries under established fair use principles."Footage that is already widely available on public platforms like X and Telegram is routinely used by documentary filmmakers, news outlets, and human rights organizations under fair use standards," said Simony. "Under U.S. law, and in many other jurisdictions, such use is considered lawful when it serves the public interest-especially when documenting human rights abuses. If these standards had been applied consistently in the past, much of the visual record of the Holocaust, the Rwandan genocide, and atrocities in Syria and Ukraine would never have been seen. TIFF's selective enforcement sets a dangerous precedent that could silence critical historical documentation." Simony further noted the glaring inconsistency in applying these standards:"If a Palestinian filmmaker includes footage of Israeli soldiers, no festival demands signed consent from those individuals. Why, then, are Israeli filmmakers held to a different, impossible standard? The double standard is glaring." He added that courts have repeatedly recognized that documenting atrocities is a matter of public record, not private ownership. "By imposing an impossible copyright hurdle on Israeli filmmakers, TIFF is effectively granting perpetrators a veto over their own exposure." AJCF leaders concluded that historical memory relies on the free and honest documentation of atrocities. "When film festivals close their doors to these stories," Bergson said, "they don't just fail the victims-they empower the perpetrators." The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz), and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students have participated in its educational programs, and tens of thousands of diplomats, military and law enforcement personnel, and educators have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ Contact: Joshua SteinreichSteinreich Communications(212) 491-1600jsteinreich@ scompr.com SOURCE: Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 18:10:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 905 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Trusted Canada Casinos publishes its latest guide to Interac-friendly Canadian casinos, highlighting fast payments, secure banking, and bonus-eligible deposits.VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Canadian players searching for the best online casinos in Canada that accept Interac can now unlock exclusive welcome offers worth up to CA $8,000 + Free Spins.Visit Trusted Canada Casinos now to see the full list of Interac-friendly Canadian casinos and their current bonuses.The site's latest guide highlights where Interac can be used for instant deposits, fast withdrawals, and bonus-eligible play, making it easier for players to find casinos that deliver both convenience and value.Discover Canada's Top Interac CasinosMore Canadian online casinos are embracing Interac for its speed, security, and player-friendly features. 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Or 21+ if you sign up from the USA.Responsible Gambling Notice If you believe you may have a gambling problem, contact ConnexOntario (1-866-531-2600) or Gambling Therapy ( www.gamblingtherapy.org) Information Accuracy Disclaimer All offers and features were accurate at the time of publication but may change without notice.Contact: c_service@ dr.com Contact no +1 506-341-6048SOURCE: BinxxMedia PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 13:55:13 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 600 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / National plaintiffs law firm Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP encourages investors in Fiserv, Inc. ("Fiserv") (NYSE:FI) who purchased or otherwise acquired Fiserv common stock between July 24, 2024 and July 22, 2025, inclusive (the "Class Period") to contact us immediately regarding the pending securities class action against Fiserv. The deadline to apply to be lead plaintiff is September 22, 2025.Class Period: July 24, 2024 - July 22, 2025Lead Plaintiff Motion Deadline: September 22, 2025Case information: https://lieffcabraser.com/securities/fiserv/ Contact us: Email or text investorinfo@ lchb.com or call 1-800-541-7358Fiserv, incorporated in Wisconsin and headquartered in Milwaukee, provides transaction processing software for banks and retail merchants. The Company's flagship product and most important growth driver is Clover, a payment processing platform that facilitates secure processing of credit, debit, and mobile payment transactions on behalf of financial institutions and their customers. Beginning in late 2023, Fiserv began a forced migration of customers using its older Payeezy point-of-sale platform to its Clover platform. Despite this forced migration, Fiserv represented to shareholders that 90% of Clover's revenue growth was due to new client retention.The action alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (a) due to Payeezy's operational issues, Fiserv required its customers to migrate to Clover; (b) Clover's key revenue metric, "gross payment volume" (or "GPV"), and revenue growth were boosted by the migrations, obscuring a deceleration in new business; (c) after their migrations, many former Payeezy customers, including e-commerce merchants who found Clover's features costly and unnecessary, moved to competitors' platforms; and (d) as a result of customer attrition, Clover's GPV growth decelerated and its revenue growth could not be sustained.On April 24, 2025, Fiserv revealed that Clover's GPV growth rate had fallen from 14-17% in 2024 to 8% in Q1 2025. On this news, Fiserv's stock price fell $40.20 per share, or 18.51%, from a closing price of $217.10 on April 23, 2025, to close at $176.90 on February 26, 2025, on elevated trading volume.On May 15, 2025, the Company disclosed that Clover's GPV growth would continue to decelerate throughout 2025. Analysts reported that the bulk of the lost customers were e-commerce merchants who had been forcibly migrated to Clover, but had limited use for the product and wanted more tailored and lower cost alternatives. On this news, Fiserv's stock price fell $30.73 per share, or 16.18%, from a closing price of $189.86 on May 14, 2025, to close at $159.13 on May 15, 2025, on heavy trading volume.On July 23, 2025, Fiserv lowered the top end of its 2025 organic growth guidance range and revealed that its Q2 organic revenue growth in its Merchant segment was only 9%, compared to 28% in Q2 2024. Wolfe Research noted that "we recognize a need for the dust to settle, with stability/credibility in metrics and guidance reestablished before some investors add materially to shares." On this news, Fiserv's stock price fell 13.9%, or $22.98, from a closing price of $165.98 on July 22, 2025 to close at $143.00 on July 23, 2025, on extremely heavy trading volume.About Lieff CabraserLieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP, with over 125 attorneys in offices in San Francisco, New York, Nashville, and Munich, Germany, is an internationally-recognized law firm committed to advancing the rights of investors and promoting corporate responsibility. Repeatedly recognized as a "Plaintiffs' Powerhouse" by Law360, Lieff Cabraser has litigated some of the most important civil cases in the United States, and has assisted clients in recovering over $131 billion in verdicts and settlements. For over 50 years, Lieff Cabraser has remained committed to ensuring access to justice for all.Source/ContactSharon LeeLieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein, LLP415 956-1000 slee@ lchb.com SOURCE: Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 09:40:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 535 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 KUALA LUMPUR, MY / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 /Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. ("Futuromic" or the "Company"), a leading photography, imaging and visual products distributor in Malaysia, is pleased to announce its appointment as the sole distributor for Kodak PIXPRO Digital Cameras in Malaysia, effective 1 August 2025.Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd.This exclusive appointment underscores Futuromic's continued commitment to represent reputable and high-quality imaging brands in the local market . With Kodak's long-standing legacy in imaging innovation and the growing demand for versatile digital camera solutions, the collaboration is poised to offer Malaysian consumers and retailers a compelling range of imaging products through a trusted distribution network."We are honoured to be entrusted with the sole distribution of Kodak PIXPRO in Malaysia," said Dato' Billy Lai, Business Development Director of Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. "This partnership reflects our shared vision with Kodak in making high-performance, accessible imaging technology available to a broader audience. We look forward to working closely with our dealer network to deliver these innovative solutions to the market." Preparations are currently underway for the official rollout of the Kodak PIXPRO range in Malaysia. Futuromic is working closely with channel partners to provide comprehensive support, which includes detailed product information, dealer pricing and purchase terms, marketing materials, and structured training programmes. After-sales support will also be made readily available to ensure a seamless experience for both dealers and end users.Retailers and partners who wish to place advance orders or require further information may contact their respective Futuromic sales representative or reach out directly via email at b2b@ futuromic.com or phone at +603-6156 6633 .Futuromic looks forward to a successful launch of Kodak PIXPRO in Malaysia and to strengthening its partnerships across the imaging and consumer electronics ecosystem. Futuromic is Malaysia's only distributor for renowned global brands including DNP, Eureka, GR, Nikon, Pentax, Tamron, SanDisk, Western Digital, and Kodak PIXPRO, and master distributor for FujiFilm imaging products.###ABOUT FUTUROMIC PHOTO AV SDN. BHD.Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. ("Futuromic") is a leading distributor of photography, imaging, and audio-visual products in Malaysia, with over three decades of industry experience. Established in 1994, Futuromic has built a robust nationwide presence through an extensive network of authorised dealers, online marketplaces, and its own B2B platform. Futuromic operates across two core distribution segments, Photo Imaging, and IT to meet the evolving needs of professionals, content creators, and technology users alike. Futuromic is Malaysia's only distributor for renowned global brands including DNP, Eureka, GR, Nikon, Pentax, Tamron, SanDisk, Western Digital, and Kodak PIXPRO, and master distributor for FujiFilm imaging products. Guided by its tagline "Create Connect Inspire." , Futuromic offers comprehensive product solutions, after-sales support, and community engagement initiatives such as its photography platform, GIVING FRAMES. The company is also registered with the Ministry of Finance Malaysia to provide engineering services and media-related solutions in the imaging sector.For more information, visit www.futuromic.com Issued By: Swan Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. on behalf of Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd.For more information, please contact:Jazzmin WanEmail:j.wan@ swanconsultancy.biz Chris SerEmail:c.ser@ swanconsultancy.biz Asyraf HakimiEmail:a.hakimi@ swanconsultancy.biz SOURCE: Futuromic Photo AV Sdn. Bhd. PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 02:00:17 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 329 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Hospital Construction Project Will Provide Infrastructure ModernizationHILLSBORO, ILLINOIS / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board officially approved Hillsboro Health's Certificate of Need application for a construction project at its main hospital campus. This critical infrastructure upgrade is designed to modernize facilities, expand outpatient surgery services and ensure continued access to high-quality care for the Hillsboro community and surrounding areas. Hillsboro Health Construction Project Hillsboro Health Patient Drop-Off AreaThe proposed building project includes three major components:Central Utility Plant Upgrade: Replacement of aging mechanical systems to improve energy efficiency and reliability and support future growth.Surgical Services Expansion: Construction of an 11,000-square-foot addition to house two new operating rooms, a procedure room, post-surgery recovery suites and a modern central sterilization area.Enhanced Patient Experience: Renovation of the hospital's front lobby and construction of a new entrance canopy to improve accessibility and the overall patient and visitor experience.Much of the hospital's current infrastructure dates to its original construction in 1975. This project will replace outdated mechanical equipment and surgical spaces with modern, efficient and patient-centered designs that reflect today's standards of health care delivery."This project represents a significant investment in the future of health care in our area," says Hillsboro Health President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Alexander. "Upgrading our infrastructure and expanding outpatient surgery capabilities ensures patients have access to high-quality health care without having to travel long distances. This growth will also enable us to continue to serve our community for generations to come." Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted for late 2027.Hillsboro Health, formerly called Hillsboro Area Hospital, is a local, independent health care organization comprised of a 25-bed, not-for-profit, Critical Access Hospital that provides inpatient, outpatient and emergency services. Hillsboro Health also offers primary and specialty care, therapy services, assisted living facilities and a fitness and aquatics center.Contact InformationClaire EskewDirector of Marketing and Community Servicesceskew@ hhealth.us 2175324320SOURCE: Hillsboro Health PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 18:12:12 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 361 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 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 ISLAMABAD, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Three police personnel were killed and six others injured when militants opened fire on a police mobile van in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province early Thursday, police sources said. The vehicle of the police quick reaction force came under gunfire in Upper Dir district at wee hours of Thursday, the sources told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. The injured personnel were shifted to a nearby hospital, with some in critical condition, the sources added. Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to apprehend the attackers. Outlawed organization Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan has claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement on social media platforms. PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 01:45:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 627 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., August 13, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:NVO) between May 7, 2025 and July 28, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 30, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.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=34168or 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. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants 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. PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 13:04:20 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 411 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Sable Offshore Corp. ("Sable" or "the Company") (NYSE:SOC) and certain of its officers.Class DefinitionThis lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Sable securities: (1) pursuant and/or traceable to Sable's May 21, 2025 secondary public offering (the "SPO"); or (ii) between May 19, 2025, and June 3, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/SOC Case DetailsThe Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) they represented that Sable Offshore Corp. had restarted oil production off the coast of California when it had not; and (2) as a result, defendants' statements about Sable's business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.What's Next?A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: bgandg.com/SOC . or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660. If you suffered a loss in Sable you have until September 26, 2025, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & GrossmanBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.ContactBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 13:07:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 1037 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 HONG KONG, CHINA / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / SouthGobi Resources Ltd. (Hong Kong Stock Exchange ("HKEX"):1878, TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V"):SGQ) (the "Company" or "SouthGobi") today announces its financial and operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. All figures are in U.S. dollars ("USD") unless otherwise stated.Significant Events and HighlightsThe Company's significant events and highlights for the three months ended June 30, 2025 and the subsequent period to August 14, 2025 are as follows:Operating Results- The Company increased the scale of its mining operations since 2024, as well as implementing various coal processing methods, including screening, wet washing and dry coal processing, which have resulted in improved coal quality and enhanced production volume and growth of coal export volume into China during the period.In response to the market demand for different coal products, the Company focused on expanding the categories of coal products in its portfolio, including mixed coal, wet washed coal and dry processed coal. In addition, the Company has experienced success with processing its inventory of F-grade coal products through cost-effective screening procedures. As a result of the improvement in the quality of the processed F-grade coal, the Company was able to meet the import coal quality standards established by Chinese authorities and has been exporting this product to China for sale since the first quarter of 2024, further enhancing the Company's coal export volume.The Company recorded sales volume of 3.0 million tonnes for the second quarter of 2025 compared to 1.2 million tonnes for the second quarter of 2024, while the Company recorded an average realised selling price of $52.6 per tonne for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $77.6 per tonne for the second quarter of 2024. The decrease in the average realised selling price was mainly due to the Company facing headwinds in the China coal market since 2024, leading to the Company changing its product mix to sell a greater percentage of lower-priced coal products.Financial Results- The Company recorded a $14.3 million loss from operations for the second quarter of 2025 compared to $15.0 million profit from operation for the second quarter of 2024. The financial results were impacted by the decreased average realised selling price, the change in product mix, as the Company sold more processed coal with higher production costs, and an impairment loss on coal stockpiles of $12.3 million was recorded during the second quarter of 2025.Notice from Mongolian Government Plenipotentiary and designation of Company's mining deposits as mineral deposits of strategic importance -On April 2, 2025, Southgobi Sands LLC ("SGS") received a letter from a plenipotentiary representative of the Mongolian government (the "Letter") which invited SGS to participate in negotiations in relation to determining the Mongolian state's ownership interest in SGS, being the legal entity which holds the Company's coal mining and exploration licenses in Mongolia.The Letter states that, in furtherance of Mongolia's National Wealth Fund Law which was passed in April 2024, the Mongolian government resolved on February 5, 2025 to appoint a plenipotentiary representative (the "Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government") to negotiate with legal persons holding a mining license for a deposit designated by the Mongolian government as a strategically important deposit ("Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance") in relation to determining the proportionate interest the Mongolian state has in such legal entity or whether to replace the Mongolian state's interest with a royalty interest.The Company has been advised by its Mongolian legal counsel that, the Government of Mongolia is empowered to participate on an equity ownership basis with the license holder in the exploitation and/or mining of each Mineral Deposit of Strategic Importance on terms to be negotiated between the Government of Mongolia and such license holder. Based solely on the knowledge of the Company's Mongolian legal counsel, the Company is aware that various other license holders of Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance have entered into similar negotiations with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government.On April 24, 2025, SGS initiated preliminary discussions with the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government. The Company anticipates that the discussion between SGS and the Plenipotentiary Representative of the Mongolian Government will continue and both parties will endeavour to engage in good faith for the purpose of arriving at a mutual and constructive understanding and agreement. The Company intends to fully cooperate with the Mongolian government and provide all necessary information to the extent permitted by applicable law.As at the date of this press release, the deposits covered by four of the Company's Mongolian mining licenses have been designated as Mineral Deposits of Strategic Importance by Mongolian government authorities. The relevant mining licenses relate to the Company's Ovoot Tolgoi Mine and the Soumber Deposit.Additional Tax and Tax Penalty Imposed by the Mongolian Tax Authority ("MTA") -On July 18, 2023, SGS received an official notice (the "Notice") issued by the MTA stating that the MTA had completed a periodic tax audit (the "Audit") on the financial information of SGS for the tax assessment years between 2017 and 2020, including transfer pricing, royalty, air-pollution fee and unpaid tax payables. As a result of the Audit, the MTA notified SGS that it is imposing a tax penalty against SGS in the amount of approximately $75.0 million. The penalty mainly relates to the different view on the interpretation of tax law between the Company and the MTA. Under Mongolian law, the Company had a period of 30 days from the date of receipt of the Notice to file an appeal in relation to the Audit. Subsequently the Company engaged an independent tax consultant in Mongolia to provide tax advice and support to the Company and filed an appeal letter in relation to the Audit with the MTA in accordance with Mongolian laws on August 17, 2023.On February 8, 2024, SGS received notice from the Tax Dispute Resolution Council ("TDRC") which stated that, after the TDRC's review, the TDRC issued a decision in relation to SGS' appeal of the Audit, and ordered that the audit assessments set forth in the Notice of July 18, 2023 be sent back to the MTA for review and re-assessment.On February 22, 2024, SGS received another notice from the MTA stating that the MTA anticipated commencing the re-assessment process on or about March 7, 2024 and the dur PR-Inside.com: 2025-08-14 19:15:15 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 565 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 Bringing Arizona's Fastest and Most Reliable Internet SpeedsMARANA, AZ / ACCESS Newswire / August 14, 2025 / Wyyerd Fiber("Wyyerd"), a leading fiber Internet service provider, is proud to announce the launch of its 100% fiber network in Marana, Arizona, just weeks after announcing the start of construction. This rapid deployment reflects Wyyerd's commitment to bringing its fast Fiber Internet services to homes and businesses as quickly and efficiently as possible. Wyyerd Fiber"Our launch in Marana is a significant milestone as we begin our expansion across Southern Arizona", said Justin Freesmeier, CEO of Wyyerd Fiber. "We're excited to provide Marana residents and businesses with access to reliable Fiber Internet backed by local support, straightforward pricing, and unlimited data. As a part of this launch, we've established a local presence, built a local team and we're investing in local partnerships as we grow within the community." Wyyerd delivers equal upload and download speeds up to 8 GIG with no contracts, no hidden fees, and free installation. The company's network has been recognized by Ookla, the global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights, for delivering Arizona's fastest and most reliable Internet speeds. Bringing this award-winning service to Marana means that residents and businesses can now access the same high-performance connectivity trusted across the state."The Town of Marana is excited to welcome Wyyerd Fiber to our community," said Jon Post, Mayor of the Town of Marana. "Having fast, reliable internet is a necessity, and we're pleased to see more options becoming available for our residents." "Our mission is to be more than just a service provider," said Max Ivankovich, Director of Market Development & Planning of Wyyerd Fiber. "We aim to be a trusted partner in the communities we serve. Whether it's providing world-class customer service or simply being available when needed, we're here to build lasting relationships our customers can count on and feel good about recommending us to their neighbors." Wyyerd's presence in Marana was recently commemorated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Crossroads at Silverbell District Park, attended by town leaders, residents, and members of the Wyyerd Team. The event celebrated both the official start of service and the promise of stronger connections.Wyyerd Fiber is expanding rapidly across the Southwest, and the Marana launch reflects the company's broader commitment to bringing future-proof infrastructure and exceptional local support to communities throughout new and existing communities across its Arizona and California markets. Residents, business owners, and community leaders are encouraged to check availability or request service in their area by visitingwyyerd.comor calling (520) 244-0060.About WyyerdAt Wyyerd Fiber, we're passionate about delivering the fastest, most reliable Fiber Internet on our industry-leading Fiber-Optic Network with speeds up to 8 GIG for residents and businesses in the Arizona and California markets. We provide affordable, reliable connectivity tailored to each community, supported by local teams and unmatched customer service. Every region is unique, so we put local leadership at the heart of everything. Our vision is to become a trusted partner for Internet services, build lasting relationships, and connect communities one neighborhood at a time.About Ookla Ookla is a global leader in connectivity intelligence that provides data-driven insights to improve networks and connected experiences.Based on Ookla Speedtest Intelligence data, 1H 2025. All rights reserved.Contact InformationJonah PollackSenior Vice President, Marketingjonah.pollack@wyyerd.com 520-286-5060SOURCE: Wyyerd Fiber Palm oil giant Presco has said a takeover of local oil palm business Saro Oil Palm Limited is on the cards. The move follows a phased acquisition last year of Ghana Oil Palm Development Company (GODPC) Limited, a venture in which it acquired a 52 per cent interest for N103 billion in the first tranche. Acquiring Saro Oil Palm will cost $46.1 million, while consummating the Ghanaian deal requires $124.9 million, the agribusiness company said Thursday in a statement. That puts the combined value of the latest acquisitions at $171.6 million. Saro Oil Palm is a subsidiary of Saro Africa International, a conglomerate owned by Rasheed Sarumi, who is the current chairman of Presco. Presco expects the local acquisition to deliver N85 billion in operating profit by 2029. Saro Oil Palms flagship asset, a 10,000-hectare plantation in Edo State, has been a subject of land grab allegations by its host community, according to www.farmlandgrab.org, which tracks land grabbing for agribusiness and carbon farming around the globe. GOPDC runs two oil palm estates spanning 21,000 hectares in Eastern Ghana, both capable of producing more than 35,000 tonnes of palm oil and palm kernel oil yearly. Prescos current stake in the palm oil maker contributed 8 per cent to its revenue in 2024, according to the Edo State-based firms 2024 audited earnings report. Last March, Oak and Saffron, Saro Africas special purpose acquisition vehicle, acquired SIAT SAs 86.7 per cent shareholding in Presco, 33 years after the Belgian corporation took control of the company. READ ALSO: Middlemen take advantage as several factors limit palm oil production in Akwa Ibom Presco stated in the Thursday statement it will raise fresh equity capital via a rights issue to facilitate its strategic objectives, refinance current debt and fund the purchase of GOPDC and Saro Oil Palm. Its revenue for the six months to June leapt 125.8 per cent to N198.7 billion, compared to a year ago, while net profit was up by 128.2 per cent at N88.7 billion. Total assets climbed 29 per cent to N613 billion. The US State Department has approved the sale of munitions, precision-guided bombs, and rockets estimated to be potentially up to $346 million to Nigeria. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, according to Reuters. According to the DSCA, the request was granted following the Nigerian governments request for a series of munitions, including the purchase of 1,002 MK-82 general purpose 500 lb bombs. The Nigerian government also requested non-major defence equipment (non-MDE) items in the package, including FMU-139 joint programmable fuses, bomb components, impulse cartridges, high-explosive and practice rockets, integration support and test equipment, and the US contractor technical and logistics services. The US State Department identified that the sale was permitted because it would advance the countrys foreign policy and national security goals by enhancing the security of a key strategic partner in Africa. The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Nigeria of Munitions, Precision Bombs, and Precision Rockets and related equipment for an estimated cost of $346 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today. Nigeria requested to buy 1,002 MK-82 general purpose 500 lb bombs; 1,002 MXU-650 Air Foil Groups (AFGs) for 500 lb Paveway II GBU-12; 515 MXU-1006 AFGs for 250 lb Paveway II GBU-58; 1,517 MAU-169 or MAU-209 computer control group (CCG) for Paveway II GBU-12/GBU-58; 1,002 FMU-152 joint programmable fuzes; and 5,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) all-up-rounds (AURs) (consisting of one each WGU-59/B guidance section (GS); high-explosive warhead; and MK66-4 rocket motor), the statement read in part. According to the US government, the final cost of the munition is expected to be lower than the initial estimate. However, it noted, this depends on Nigerias final requirements, available budget, and the terms of the signed agreements. Meanwhile, no additional US government or contractor personnel would be deployed to Nigeria for the implementation of the sales. The agency said, Said deal is also not supposed to have any negative impact on US defense readiness. The State Department also noted that, principal contractors for the potential sale are RTX Missiles and Defense (Tucson, Arizona), Lockheed Martin Corporation (Archibald, Pennsylvania), and BAE Systems (Hudson, New Hampshire). While the US Government is unaware of any offset agreement tied to the deal, any such arrangement would be negotiated directly between Nigeria and the contractors. The US is a major supplier of military hardware to Nigeria. However, there have been times when the purchases were stalled. In 2021, for instance, Nigeria tried to purchase munitions from the US, including 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft. But the request was initially stalled by US lawmakers over concerns about possible human rights abuses by the Nigerian government, before eventually receiving approval later that year. In 2022, the country, under the Joe Biden administration, also approved nearly $1 billion in weapons sales to Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu is building a reputation for himself as the flip-flopper in chief the president who, after announcing an appointment or a bold new policy today, is more than likely to reverse it. From the last-minute withdrawal of Maryam Shettys ministerial nomination while she waited at the Senate for screening, to the dramatic replacement of Muheeba Dankaka as Federal Character Commission chairperson just four hours after reappointment, the presidents repeated U-turns have fuelled criticism of sloppy decision-making and poor internal coordination. Analysts say these abrupt reversals, often without official explanations, have left the administration looking indecisive and disorganised. Below are seven notable flip-flops that have defined the Tinubu presidency so far: 1. Muheeba Dankakas Four-Hour Reappointment On Monday, President Tinubu reappointed Muheeba Dankaka for another five-year term as chairperson of the Federal Character Commission (FCC). Four hours later, the presidency issued a fresh statement replacing her with former lawmaker Ayo Omidiran. No reason was given for the change, but presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga noted that Ms Dankakas tenure was dogged by controversy. The reversal caused confusion, with some prominent Nigerians including the Emir of Ilorin congratulating Ms Dankaka after the initial announcement, unaware it had been withdrawn. 2. INEC REC Nominees Withdrawn On 18 March, the president withdrew the appointment of two INEC Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), Mohammad Ngoshe (Borno) and Owede Kosioma Eli (Bayelsa), days after he first nominated them. Umar Mukhtar, the current REC for Borno, was reappointed, while Johnson Silnikiem was named REC for Bayelsa. 3. CBN Board nominee After forwarding her name to the Senate two days earlier, the president withdrew the nomination of Ruby Onwudiwe as a member of the board of directors of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on 14 March 2024. The decision to withdraw her nomination followed pressure mounted on the president by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding Ms Onwudiwes political affiliation. 4. Maryam Shettys Abrupt Ministerial Withdrawal In August 2023, Kano-born politician Maryam Shetty arrived at the Senate for her ministerial screening, only to learn her nomination had been withdrawn. Her name was replaced with that of Mariya Mahmoud. The reversal generated both sympathy and ridicule online, with critics calling it an avoidable embarrassment. 5. NDDC Board Shake-Up in 24 Hours On 2 September 2023, the Nigerian leader replaced Cross River States Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) nominee, Asi Okang, with Orok Duke, and Ondo State nominee Victor Akinjo with Otito Atikase just a day after announcing the initial list. The changes followed protests from residents and APC members in both states. 6. FERMA Chair Nomination Reversed On 13 October 2023, the presidency announced Kashim Imam as chairman of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) board. Less than a week later, his appointment was withdrawn without explanation. All other appointments to the Board and Executive Management team of FERMA are not affected by this directive, a State House statement said at the time. 7. Dissolution of Boards With Last-Minute Exemptions In June 2023, President Tinubu dissolved the governing boards of all federal parastatals, agencies, institutions, and government-owned companies. Shortly after the announcement, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) clarified that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC) were exempted from Mr Tinubus dissolution order. No reasons were given for the exemptions. The situation shows a lack of systematic adherence, or not following procedures, said Veronica Igube, a policy analyst at SBM Intelligence. Its like they take us for a joke. How do you announce that somebody has been appointed on one hand and come back to say, Oh, sorry, this is not the person that has been appointed. The federal government should ensure that before every communication comes out, its completely verified and authorised. If the government is appointing someone to a position, thats not something that is taken lightly. A mistake can happen once, but it shouldnt repeat itself. The federal government has approved plans to either rehabilitate or completely rebuild the Third Mainland and Carter bridges in Lagos, following alarming reports of severe underwater damage. The Minister of Works David Umahi disclosed this while presenting a memo to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) seeking approval for the projects execution under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement. He said underwater investigations in 2013 and 2019 revealed that the bridges piers, once held in place by sand, had suffered significant deterioration due to illegal sand mining, ocean currents, and corrosion. He said that while Carter Bridge is beyond repair, with a feasible replacement estimated at N359 billion, rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge is estimated at N3.8 trillion, while new construction would cost about N3.6 trillion. The Carter Bridge was beyond repair. They gave us a cost of about N380 billion for rehabilitation but said it was not feasible. But the feasible one was about 359 billion for new brand bridge and they discussed with the Dutch bank for their funding When we did a pro rata of what is to be done if we are to rehabilitate, it came to about 3.8 trillion and if we are to do a new construction, it came to about 3.6 trillion and so we approached the Federal Executive Council and said, look, give us approval to do two things under Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement, he said. What FEC approved Speaking further, the minister said FEC granted four approvals for the projects, which include the use of seven specialist contractors to undertake comprehensive investigations, design, and bidding for the bridges reconstruction or rehabilitation. He stated that the project would be funded through a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement, and the selective procurement method would be used for the EPC+F works. Also, private sector financing will be explored with discussions already ongoing with Deutsche Bank. ALSO READ: Woman dies after jumping into Lagos Lagoon from Third Mainland Bridge To allow not less than seven specialist contractors to undertake a comprehensive investigation, comprehensive design, and a bidding to reconstruct brand new bridges or to do rehabilitation of these two bridges. So these were the four approvals that the federal executive council gave to us. So we should go ahead under the selective method of procurement to ask for EPC+F, he said. The Third Mainland Bridge The Third Mainland Bridge, constructed between 1976 and 1990, was once the longest bridge in Africa until 1996 when the 6th October Bridge in Cairo was completed. The bridge is vital to the transportation system in Lagos, connecting the mainland to the island. However, decades of use have taken a toll on the bridges structure, making it increasingly vulnerable to damage. The Third Mainland Bridge has undergone significant repairs in recent times. The bridge underwent a major phased rehabilitation that lasted 110 days between May and September, affecting both inbound and outbound lanes with partial closures. On 8 August, the federal government further restricted heavy-duty vehicles from using the bridge due to structural safety concerns. Other projects Mr Umahi noted that a similar project, the Kano-Katsina Road, had been reviewed and upgraded, with a total funding of N68 billion for the first section and N96.155 billion for the second section. He assured that the government was committed to completing the project and ensuring the safety of the bridge. The minister also highlighted other bridge projects nationwide, including the Jalingo Bridge in Taraba state, the Iddo Bridge, and the Kefi flyover Bridge, which have been approved for intervention. He emphasised the governments commitment to addressing the countrys infrastructure challenges and ensuring the safety of its citizens. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday inaugurated a 44-member zoning committee mandated to recommend how the partys national offices will be distributed across Nigerias six geopolitical zones ahead of its next elective national convention. The committee will also advise on the zoning of the partys 2027 presidential ticket. The committee is chaired by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri. Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal will serve as vice chairman, and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang as secretary. The Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, inaugurated the committee during the ceremony held at the partys national secretariat in Abuja. The zoning committee The PDPs National Executive Council (NEC) first constituted the zoning committee during its 99th meeting in May. The committees mandate includes allocating national offices among the six geopolitical zones and determining which zone will secure the partys presidential ticket for the 2027 elections. The PDP zoning policy is entrenched in its constitution and manifesto. The party constitution specifically provides for the rotation and zoning of party and public elective offices to ensure equity, justice, and fairness. Over the years, the NEC has routinely set up similar committees ahead of major conventions. A 37-member zoning committee chaired by former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom was constituted ahead of the 2023 elections. That committee was divided at the time. Southern leaders pushed for the presidential ticket to be zoned to the South in the spirit of fairness, while northern leaders argued it should remain in the North because of the regions perceived lack of benefit from the 2019 election outcome. Ultimately, the PDP opted against zoning its 2023 presidential ticket to any specific region, opening the race to all aspirants, a decision that saw former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, a northerner, emerge as the partys flagbearer. However, some members of the party and five governors led by the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, kicked against Atikus emergence and worked against him during the election. Mr Wike, now the FCT minister, was an aspirant but lost to the former vice president in the primary election. Atiku, who was also the partys presidential candidate in the 2019 election, has since resigned from the party under which he became the countrys vice president in 1999. With internal rifts still lingering, many Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the new zoning committee will also face similar divisions as it undertakes its assignment. Prioritising fairness, equity During the inauguration ceremony, Mr Damagum urged the members to prioritise fairness, equity, and strategic thinking, while carrying out the assignment. He stressed that the panels work would be crucial in shaping the partys internal balance of power and preparing it for electoral victory in 2027. This committee is the engine room where we lay the political foundation for the leadership of the PDP over the next four years. The decisions you take will shape our ability to serve Nigerians, win elections, and defend the democratic values we represent. Our zoning process must reflect fairness, equity, and strategic thinking, as well as strengthen our unity, reward loyalty, and position us for electoral victory. I trust that the zoning committee will approach its task with wisdom, foresight, and a full understanding of the bigger picture: PDP over anyone, and PDP above any personal interest, he said. Mr Damagum acknowledged the partys internal crisis, but maintained that the PDP remains resilient. We operate in a dynamic political terrain, sometimes turbulent, always demanding the very best from us. In recent times, we have faced changes in leadership and the departure of some members who chose a different path, yet we remain standing because the PDP is bigger than any individual, stronger than any momentary setback, and destined to remain a central force in Nigerias democratic journey. We need leaders of integrity, creativity, and capacity. We must place individuals who inspire confidence, mobilise effectively, and speak to the hopes of Nigerians. Please, members of this committee, do keep in mind that the deputies are just as important as the principals. I speak from experience. I ran for and was elected to the position of national deputy chairman (north). Yet, due to political circumstances, I was thrust into the role of leading our great party nationally, he said. The South-west zonal chapter of the All Progressives Congress(APC) has given reasons for mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election. The Zonal Executive Committee of the party met on Wednesday in Akure, the Ondo State capital, and agreed that President Tinubu deserved a second term. Its Chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, said the committee met to discuss how it would intend to mobilise support for President Tinubu across the states of the South-west in preparation for the 2027 election. The South-west zone comprises Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, Osun Ekiti and Lagos States. President Tinubu hails from Lagos State and was governor between 1999 and 2007. Mr Kekemeke said the plan is to engage the people at the grassroots and acquaint them with the efforts and results of President Tinubus socio-economic policies and programmes for the development of the federation. According to him, the committee has assessed and evaluated the economic policies and various programmes being introduced and implemented by Tinubus government and discovered that he has done creditably well. He said following the assessment, the committee agreed that he deserved a second term to consolidate what he is currently doing. The Zonal Executive Committee of All Progressives Congress (APC), which includes the six chairmen of the party in the zone and National Executive Council (NEC) members of the party in the zone, met today in Akure, and they deliberated extensively on the state of the party in the zone, he said. Obviously, apart from discussing the activities of the party in the entire zone, the committee would come up with modalities for working for the second term of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Our goal is that the South-west must do to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu electorally what the North-west consistently did for the late President Muhammadu Buhari. Two. The officers of the zone (Southwest) had decided to appoint canvassers for President Tinubu in about 2000 electoral wards in the Southwest zone. We cannot wait because we believe that as the zone of the President, we must lead the crusade for his re-election. Mr Kekemeke, however, admitted that the policies of the present administration had caused some pains to Nigerians, but noted that the president has done well for the people. They are beginning to feel the results of the bold initiative and socio-economic transformation that is happening in Nigeria, Mr Kekemeke said. Prices of things are beginning to stabilise and coming down, the foreign exchange is coming down, debts are being paid, and Nigeria is becoming internationally respectable. We believe that in a not distant time, these pains will pave way and will give ways to prosperities and peace in our country. South-west is already awash with support groups for the president, all attempting to outdo themselves in the campaign for Mr Tinubus second term bid. There were contentions between the groups and the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa when he was alleged to have sought the collapse of the groups into a single structure. While the groups rejected the move, the party in the state has distanced the governor from the allegations, sensing a likely backlash. However, Governor Aiyedatiwa has yet to openly clear the air on the controversy. PHNOM PENH, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- An ASEAN Interim Observer Team (IOT) on Thursday visited Cambodia-Thailand border areas. Led by Malaysian military attache to Cambodia, the IOT, comprised of military attaches from Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Vietnam, visited villages in Banteay Meanchey province, where Thai armed forces set up barbed wire and placed tyres, as well as some border checkpoints, according to Cambodian Defense Ministry's Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata. "Once again, Cambodia calls on Thailand to uphold the spirit of the ceasefire in order to achieve a peaceful resolution to the issue in accordance with the principle of international law, ensuring a just, impartial and fair outcome that will bring peace and prosperity to both nations and peoples," Socheata said in a press briefing. Armed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces erupted on July 24 along their border. The two ASEAN member states agreed to a ceasefire on the afternoon of July 28, which took effect at midnight on the same day. The police in Rivers State have arrested a cleric for allegedly camping some children in a church and dehumanising them under the guise of spiritual cleansing. In a statement on Wednesday, the police spokesperson in the state, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the cleric, Ifediorah Joseph, has been arrested and the children rescued. Ms Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, posted the statement on Facebook In a viral video of the incident posted on Facebook, some minors can be seen kneeling and holding white palm fronds, while a man, apparently the pastor, is using palm fronds to whip them. The man is whipping the children, one after the other, after which he throws them to another man. Three other adults, including a female, are seen assisting the pastor in the cleansing. The children could be heard crying as the man whipped them with the palm fronds. This is what has been going on for three days now. They bring these children; only God knows if they kidnapped these children or whatever, someone said in the video. This is supposed to be a church. There is blood in that basin, naked, both boys and girls, a voice over said in the video, referring to an aluminium basin with reddish-coloured contents. This is day three. The other day, we couldnt sleep at night. We initially thought they were having a childrens camp or childrens holiday, but this is out of hand. This is Eneka in Port Harcourt. They will flog these children, maltreat them, the children are crying as you can see, the voice over said in the video. At least 20 children are seen kneeling in the video as the man whips them using palm fronds, in an apparent spiritual cleansing. Preliminary investigations reveal that Mr Joseph allegedly organised a 3-day programme for children in his church, purportedly for spiritual cleaning, claiming to have been inspired by the Holy Spirit, the police said in the statement. Upon receiving this information, operatives from the command, through coordinated intelligence, arrested the pastor and several church members at the scene. Ms Iringe-Koko said an investigation is underway to unravel the circumstances surrounding this incident and promised to update the public accordingly. The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has explained that the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, recently launched by President Bola Tinubu, is designed to ensure that the people experience the benefits of the ongoing economic reforms. The minister spoke during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja by the President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Haruna Yahaya. He stated that the plan, which would engage over 10 million economically active persons across the 8,809 wards nationwide, aims to go beyond palliatives to achieve genuine empowerment by directing development efforts at the grassroots level. Each of our 8,809 wards is uniquewith people fishing, farming, mining and food processingbut they are limited by access to capital and support. If we can unlock entrepreneurship at that level, the benefits of reform will be more evenly shared, Mr Bagudu explained. This, the minister emphasised, would boost economic activities at the grassroots, catalyse the federal governments drive to increase revenue and achieve the $1 trillion economy target by 2030. He stated that the reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed to address the countrys economic stagnation, which resulted from decades of underinvestment in vital sectors of the economy. Our current reality is that we are not where we want to be, and Mr President has made that clear. But instead of playing the blame game, we are making long-overdue choicesdifficult decisions similar to what accountants make when restructuring troubled companies. Its no different with a country, Mr Bagudu stated. He called for private sector support for the reforms, noting that the nations long-term plan, Nigeria Agenda 2050, which involves all levels of government and the private sector, aims for a $33,000 per capita income by 2050. Achieving this, he explained, will require over $100 billion in annual investments, 86 per cent of which should come from private entities. The minister emphasised that reaching this vision will require more than just government effort. He described ICANs support as vital not only for technical contributions but also for helping to communicate reforms to Nigerians and fostering broad-based trust in the reform process. The ability to mobilise all stakeholdersespecially those who understand complex issues through training, like your membersis what gives reforms their staying power, he said, explaining, We need you to help us communicate these reforms to citizens. People want quick results, and its our collective duty to explain that some of the changes were making today are foundational for the prosperity we seek tomorrow. Mr Bagudu appreciated ICANs consistent engagement with the ministry and welcomed the call for support and partnership from the Institute, while noting that the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu could not have been achieved without the backing of institutions like ICAN. Speaking earlier, ICAN President Yahaya praised the minister for his exemplary leadership in guiding the ministry, noting that during his tenure, the ministry had achieved significant progress in budget implementation, including the expansion of infrastructural development across the country. He requested a partnership with the ministry to provide capacity building and technical assistance through robust financial and strategic management tools, as well as programmes for Accounting Officers focusing on ethical governance and anti-corruption. He explained that the purpose of the visit was to extend an invitation to the minister to deliver a keynote address at the 55th Annual Accountants Conference scheduled for 6th 10th October 2025, and to seek sponsorship for accountants from the ministry to attend the conference. The Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Sampson Ebimaro, while acknowledging the vital role of ICAN in regulating accounting processes in the country, sought ICANs technical support in addressing accounting procedures within the ministry. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) functions primarily to regulate the accounting profession in Nigeria, setting standards for membership, ensuring ethical conduct and providing professional development for its members. In his most visible political engagement since dumping the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, on Wednesday, led a massive campaign rally for the African Democratic Party (ADP) candidate, Alex Adanu, in Kujama, Chikun Local Government Area. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday for the bye-election to fill the vacant Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency seat. Mr El-Rufai, accompanied by chanting supporters, toured villages and towns in the constituency, urging residents to back the ADC flag bearer. His motorcade, which snaked through the communities, was met with cheers and applause, with many rushing to catch a glimpse of the former governor. In his trademark campaign style, Mr El-Rufai perched on the roof of a moving SUV, waving the ADP flag to the crowd. At Maraban Rido, he stopped to interact with excited residents, some pushing forward to embrace him. I appeal to all voters to come out en masse on Saturday and vote for the ADC candidate, Alex Ben, he told the crowd. Political battle line The bye-election is a litmus test for Mr El-Rufai in his political duel with his former ally, Governor Uba Sani. While Mr Sani is determined to deliver victory for the APC candidate, Mr El-Rufais open backing of the ADC contender is widely seen as a direct challenge to his successors grip on the states politics. Once close political associates, the two mens relationship soured after Mr Sani succeeded Mr El-Rufai in 2023. The former governor confirmed in a June interview with Arise TV that their over three-decade friendship had ended, saying, I am no longer friends with Uba Sani. Saturdays poll is expected to be more than a contest for a House of Representatives seat it could also be a referendum on who truly commands the politics of Kaduna State. The panel investigating abuses within the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) on Thursday called for intentional adoption of non-custodial measures to reduce overcrowding in correctional centres. It is very clear that the issue of non-custodial measures is something that is supposed to help us as a nation address the overbearing population in our various custodial centres, said the secretary of the panel, Uju Agomoh, on the fourth day of the last phase of the panels public hearing. She added, There are persons who may not need to be treated in terms of being in custody, and the panel feels that this is something we should utilise and find a way to use this creatively. But its obvious that we do not seem to have adequate resources in dealing with that. Ms Agomoh also noted that there are low-risk offenders who were sentenced to jail time with an option of fines but remain in prison just becuase they are unable to offset their fines. She said, sometimes, the fines are very little compared to the expenditure that the government will spend upon them. To address congestion, Ms Agomoh emphasised the urgent need to implement non-custodial measures like community service. Community service is another non-custodial measure. Community service is about you giving back to society. So you work at no cost. Nobody pays you to go to work. And we feel its very wonderful. Instead of you going to be in custody and the government will be feeding you, she said. Ms Agomoh also solicited collaboration from stakeholders, including academic institutions, judiciary, law enforcement agencies, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and the public. She also suggested drafting retired NCoS staff as parole officers, but stressed the need for proper training. Following the suggestion, the panel asked the NCoS to submit a breakdown of the number of staff serving in the non-custodial centres. During the discussions, a delegate from the NCoS, I.N. Idris, said awaiting-trial inmates constitute more than half of the inmates in some congested custodial centres. Congestion is a plague in the correctional 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 and chronic overcrowding. Tracking the panels proceedings The independent investigative panel on the alleged corruption and abuse of power, torture, cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment in the NCoS was constituted by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in September 2024, following allegations of corruption and gross misconduct involving NCoS officials and cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky. The panel held the first two phases of its hearing in September 2024 and March 2025. The ongoing sitting is the last phase of the public hearing. PREMIUM TIMES has covered the public hearing since it began here, here, and here. The agenda of this final phase of the hearing includes addressing issues that impede the effectiveness of rehabilitation and the misnomer within the NCoS. Among such issues are congestion, gender related matters, treatment of Persons with Disabilities, and child detention. Issues with fines Part of Thursdays discussion also dealt with the issue of fines. Another NCoS representative, L.C. Cyrus, stated that fines provide flexibility but also breed inequality within the system. Mr Cyrus urged the judiciary to ensure that fines are proportional to crimes and individual capacity. This also prompted the panel to plead with the Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to take the necessary steps in ensuring an efficient system of administration of fines. The National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) will sponsor 23 Nigerian lawmakers on foreign trips for leadership and capacity-building training in the next few weeks. The Director-General of NILDS, Abubakar Sulaiman, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja at the opening of a two-week workshop for personnel of the ECOWAS Parliament on Parliamentary Oversight Functions, Votes and Proceedings. Mr Abubakar, a professor of political science, explained that the lawmakers, drawn from both the Senate and House of Representatives, would participate in the training with a view to enhance legislative competence and deepen democratic governance. He was, however, silent about the cost of the trip and the country the training will be conducted. In two weeks time, we are going to be taking 23 senators and House of Representatives members for a training outside the country. You cant imagine how much its going to cost this government to do that. I cannot even disclose it, he said. The DG noted that NILDS mandate extends beyond Nigeria but to strengthen legislative institutions across the ECOWAS region. Our mandate is not just about nurturing the skills of the Nigerian parliament but also those of the ECOWAS Parliament. Democracy in Africa cannot be nurtured if we leave out the key personnel that support law-making across the sub-region, he added. Foreign leadership training for Nigerian lawmakers has been a regular practice since the early 2000s, when the National Assembly began collaborating with international institutions and parliamentary organisations. These trips, often organised by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) or funded by donor agencies, are aimed at enhancing legislative skills, strengthening oversight capacity, and improving policy analysis. NILDS and the National Assembly management have repeatedly said that exposure to advanced democracies gives lawmakers the opportunity to learn modern legislative tools, broaden their perspectives through comparative studies, and adopt global best practices in parliamentary procedure, constituency engagement, and lawmaking. However, critics argue that the benefits of such foreign trainings have not translated into meaningful reforms within Nigerias parliamentary system. Many claimed that the training sessions are sometimes more ceremonial than genuinely transformative. ECOWAS Parliament speaks Mohamed Garba, director of Parliamentary Affairs and Research, who represented ECOWAS Parliament at the workshop, commended NILDS for its deep understanding of West Africas legislative needs and its partnership with the regional body. We have had a long-standing relationship with NILDS since 2004. Our parliamentarians and staff have benefited from several trainings in the past, both local and international. NILDS knows the ECOWAS Parliament more than any other resource persons elsewhere, Mr Garba said. He, however, called for increased funding to expand training opportunities, noting that richer countries are now less willing to provide assistance. As the ECOWAS parliament evolves, we need adequate capacity building to strengthen our institution for the people of West Africa, he added. 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. Gunmen have again killed four people in a fresh attack in Ikembe Ezza Community, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Nigerias South-east. The incident happened on Tuesday morning, PREMIUM TIMES gathered. The latest attack occurred barely two weeks after a similar incident in Egumkpuma, another Ezza Community in the same council area. How the latest attack happened Sources told PREMIUM TIMES that the gunmen stormed the Ikembe Ezza Community in the early hours of Tuesday and set many houses ablaze. A middle-aged woman, according to the sources, was butchered to death while a girl and two children were burnt alive in their homes. The victims have been identified as Nwankwo Elum, Ikechukwu Basil, Bridget Nwali and Ebenezer Nweke John. There are speculations that the attackers came from Ishiagu, a community in dispute with Ezza Communities in the state. But PREMIUM TIMES could not independently verify the speculations. Viral video clips Some video clips and photographs apparently taken after the attack have been circulating on social media. One of the video clips shows a woman lying lifeless in a pool of her blood with her face severely disfigured. A male voice was heard in the background of the clip lamenting the attack which he claimed, without evidence, was carried out by Ishiagu people. The voice further claimed the woman was dragged by her assailants along the bush path from the house to where she was killed near a river. In another clip, the charred remains of one of the victims could be seen near one of the buildings which was burnt down by the attackers. Police speak The police spokesperson in Ebonyi State, Joshua Ukandu, told reporters that he was yet to get details of Tuesdays attack. Mr Ukandu, a superintendent of police, acknowledged that the area has become volatile in recent times following disagreements between the Ezza and Ishiagu people. The spokesperson assured that the police in the state were doing all within their power to ensure the matter was settled amicably. The Chairperson of the council, Emmanuel Ajah, told reporters that he traveled out of the local government for important assignments but has received reports of the incident. Not the first time On 30 July, the Egumkpuma Ezza Community was attacked in a similar way with their houses set ablaze amid gunshots. Also, last week a couple was abducted around the area by some hoodlums. Police attributed the previous incidents to long-running communal tensions in the area. The Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Adaku Uche-Anya, who visited the affected communities on 11 August, has deployed more police operatives to restore law and order. Residents said her swift response brought temporary relief after the first attack, but they now fear renewed violence. Rights group seeks urgent govt intervention Reacting, the Human Rights Defenders (HURIDE) in Ebonyi State called for urgent intervention of the state governor, Francis Nwifuru. Sampson Nweke, the chairperson of the HURIDE, who spoke to reporters, urged the chairperson of Ivo Local Government, and community leaders to prevent the crisis from spiralling further. The perpetrators and those fanning the embers of this violence must be identified, apprehended, and brought to justice, Mr Nweke said. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the torture and inhuman treatment of Ibom Air passenger Comfort Emmanson by officials of the airline after landing in Lagos on 10 August. The commission described the actions of the officials as a grave breach of human dignity, which could not be excused by the passengers initial conduct, and called for the prosecution of all culpable persons. Under the Nigerian constitution and international law, torture and degrading treatment are prohibited and cannot be justified under any circumstances, including when committed by law enforcement agencies, the NHRC said. The NHRC, in its capacity as Nigerias apex human rights institution, condemns any violation of the dignity of a person and asserts that such actions have no place in a civilised society, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, who is also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said in a statement on Wednesday. On 10 August, Ms Comfort Emmanson was accused of assaulting an Ibom Air attendant. The airline alleged that the issue started when she initially defied instruction to switch off her phone before the flight took off in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. On landing in Lagos, she reportedly assaulted the flight hostess, who earlier instructed her to switch off her phone. Ms Emmanson has denied refusing to switch off her device. An eyewitness account stated that she made genuine efforts to switch off the phone but encountered difficulties due to a fault the phone had. The eyewitness, who noted that he sat close to her separated by the aisle, said Ms Emmanson was triggered by the manner the air hostess addressed her before take-off. A viral video showed her being dragged out of the plane with her clothes torn and parts of her body exposed on landing in Lagos. On Monday, she was placed on a life ban from travelling by air in Nigeria. She was also charged and arraigned before a magistrates court in Lagos, which sent her to prison after she failed to meet her bail conditions. The incident sparked outrage from many who contrasted her case with that of musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, who was only suspended from travelling by air in Nigeria for a period despite being captured on camera trying to block a ValueJet plane from taking off. On Wednesday, aviation minister Festus Keyamo ordered the lifetime ban on her lifted, charges against her withdrawn, and Ms Emmanson released from custody. Later, the prosecution withdrew the case at the magistrates court in Ogba, Lagos, leading to Ms Emmansons discharge and release from prison. Severe violations The NHRC, referencing viral video clips capturing scenes from the incidents, notes with serious concern the use of disproportionate physical force to remove passenger from the aircraft, and the stripping and exposure of her intimate body parts. Mr Ojukwu, the NHRC head, said the actions constitute a severe violation of her rights, dignity and privacy. The commission said the subsequent recording and widespread dissemination of these compromising videos on social media constitute a secondary form of harm and further degrading treatment. Mr Ojukwu, who is also the President of the Network of National Human Rights Institutions in West Africa, while refraining from apportioning blames to any specific individual or institution, there is the need for all actors to be held responsible for their actions, including the original alleged malfeasance of the passenger. An individuals right to dignity and humane treatment remains intact, regardless of the suspicion of any crime, notwithstanding the venue, nature or magnitude of the alleged offence they may have allegedly committed before law enforcement agencies, he said. He added that the legal protection extends fully to all persons, including criminal suspects, making accountability for such violations essential. Call for prosecution However, he called on authorities to quickly prosecute those involved in the alleged abuses. NHRC wishes to state that accountability for these violations is paramount under the laws of Nigeria, it stated. The commission acknowledged recent government and aviation actions, including amnesty in the Ibom Air and ValueJet cases, but stressed that breaches of dignity, privacy, and the rights to life and safety must be addressed to uphold the rule of law. It urged swift action by stakeholders to prevent a recurrence. The NHRC will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that the rights of Ms Comfort Emmanson, other passengers, airline staff, and crew members are protected and all those responsible are held accountable, the commission stated. Recommendations It cited the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGP) and Nigerias National Action Plan on Human Rights (NAP), which set out the corporate duty to uphold and protect those rights. The commission maintained that Ibom Air and ValueJet must ensure their staff and security officials do not engage in or aid human rights abuses and must have protocols and training to manage conflicts without inhumane treatment. It pledged its support to victims on all sides in line with its mandate under sections 5 and 6 of the NHRC Act of 2010 and section 5 of the Anti-Torture Act, 2017. It said there is an urgent need to educate citizens on the necessary protocols and conduct during flight operations. It also urged authorities to mandate comprehensive human rights and de-escalation training for all airline and airport staff, and to impose strict sanctions on any airline or security agency found to have violated human rights in recent or similar incidents. It urged aviation authorities and the ministry to review passenger management protocols to meet human rights standards, including the rights to life, safety, dignity, fair hearing, and freedom of movement. Citing section 5(L)(M)(O) of the NHRC Act, the commission said it had issued an advisory to all aviation authorities on the right to dignity and protection against torture to safeguard passengers, airline staff, and the public. NHRC reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights of all Nigerians and businesses operating in the country. The federal government has nominated Taoheed Elias as Nigerias candidate for election to the International Court of Justice, considered the World Court, in The Hague, Netherlands. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, described Mr Elias as one of the most respected figures in international law. According to the minister, the decision to nominate him was based on his contributions and his belief in the ideals of the international court. On behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I am honoured to announce the nomination of Taoheed Olufemi Elias as Nigerias candidate for election to the International Court of Justice @CIJ_ICJ. Elias stands among the most respected figures in the field of international law, with a distinguished record of legal scholarship, decades of service to the global community, and a dedication to the principles of justice, equity, and the rule of law. His contributions embody the ideals upon which the ICJ was founded and the values enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, the minister wrote. Established in 1945, the ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN). It is considered as the highest court in the world for disputes involving sovereign states. The court is made up of 15 judges, each serving a nine-year term, with representation drawn from diverse legal traditions around the world. Mr Elias has recently served as an ad hoc judge at the court. If elected, Mr Elias would become the fourth Nigerian to serve on the ICJ bench, after Charles Onyeama, Bola Ajibola, and Mr Elias ather, Teslim Elias. This nomination reflects Nigerias steadfast belief in a rules-based international order, one in which justice is impartial, peace is safeguarded, and all nations, regardless of size or power, have an equal voice in shaping a fairer and more secure future for humanity, the minister wrote. The Government of Nigeria calls on the international community to support Eliass candidacy, confident that his election to the Court will strengthen the cause of global justice and advance the peaceful settlement of disputes among nations. While formally presenting Mr Elias to the members of the UN diplomatic corps on Monday in New York, Nigerias Charge dAffaires to the UN, Samson Itegboje, said Mr Elias background has significantly influenced his actions and interpretation of the law. It would interest you all to also note that the father of the candidate we are introducing today, Taslim Olawale Elias, a prominent Nigerian jurist, was a judge at the ICJ from 1976 to 1991 and his tenure marked significant contributions to international law, especially in shaping the courts jurisprudence in various areas, having served as president and as vice president of the court, he said. Mr Itegboje added that, In light of the foregoing, I can categorically state that Dr. Taoheed Olufemi Elias, himself currently a judge ad hoc at the ICJ, is not just a renowned international lawyer with vast experience in the practice of international law and academics but born into a jurist family and has learned the ropes of dispensing good judgment from his childhood. The Lagos State Police Command has opened an investigation into allegations that officers from the Onikan Police Station Tactical Squad attempted to extort N3 million from a Lagos State resident at gunpoint. The complainant, identified on X (formerly Twitter) as Boluwatife (@Tife_badass), said the incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Thursday while he and a friend were driving from Lekki to Victoria Island for an artistes event. In a series of posts, Mr Boluwatife alleged that about five armed officers stopped him near the LekkiIkoyi Link Bridge roundabout, cocked their rifles, dragged him from the drivers seat, and accused him of killing policemen in Lekki. He said the officers handcuffed him, forced him and his friend into a police Hilux van, and drove his car to the station. At Onikan station, he claimed, they ordered him to remove his shirt, shoes, and socks in preparation for detention, searched his car and documents, but found nothing. Fast forward 2 hours later, they were asking for 3 million naira, told them I wasnt going to give them anything, then after about another 2 hours they settled for 500k, gave me my phone back so I used that to alert my people. Thank God I was able to reach out for rescue, he alleged. He said they threatened to frame him as a fraudster and cultist when he refused to pay, but he managed to contact acquaintances for help, leading to his release. Im not even shaken, but what of the common man that has nobody? Theres nothing they didnt say to me. Even after explaining my background, they even threatened to shoot me multiple times. 10 police officers threatening you for no reason is just wild! he wrote. Police react Reacting to the claims on Thursday, Lagos Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin tweeted that the police leadership in the state has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) of police to investigate the allegations. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has summoned all the officers to the Command Headquarters, Ikeja, and has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), to investigate the complaint. The public will be updated on the outcome of the investigation, Mr Hundeyin tweeted. Extortion, a norm in the Nigerian police? The latest allegations come amid a rash of recent reports of extortion and abuse involving police officers in Lagos State. In June, Lagos resident Samuel Ayedogbon said he was returning from a hospital visit to his ailing wife when two men in plain clothes stopped him. The men, who claimed to be police officers, were later identified as Police Dogs local informants who work with police to extort citizens. Mr Ayedogbon told the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) that the men searched him, found nothing, but one later produced a sachet of tramadol, which he insists was planted on him. He alleged that a policeman identified only as Prince beat him at the Owutu Police Station in Agric, Lagos, and extorted N130,000 from him. In October 2024, a policeman attached to the Rapid Response Squad was caught on camera extorting motorists along the BergerArepoMowe section of the LagosIbadan Expressway, despite earlier complaints from drivers. In September 2024, the Lagos State Police Command summoned four officers accused of extorting National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members in Surulere. Videos posted on X showed the officers stopping the corps members, inspecting their vehicle papers, and later escorting them to a station, after which screenshots of alleged bank transfers to the officers surfaced online. Mr Hundeyin, the police spokesperson in the state, confirmed the officers were summoned for trial. This photo taken on Aug. 13, 2025 shows Perseid meteor shower over Tangyuan County of Jiamusi City, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. The annual Perseid meteor shower peaked on Wednesday. (Photo by Chen Zhiguo/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 man collects water at a drinking water fountain in the Green Park in London, Britain, Aug. 12, 2025. The British Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office on Monday issued an amber heat-health alert (HHA) for five regions of England, effective from Tuesday, as hot weather is expected to grip much of the country this week. (Xinhua/Li Ying) 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) 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. 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. (IDF/Handout via Xinhua) An aerial drone photo taken on Aug. 12, 2025 shows a night market in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province. (Photo by Zhang Ying/Xinhua) Players of Germany celebrate after winning the Fistball Women's Bronze Medal Match between Austria and Germany at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Aug. 13, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Cheng) 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. (Photo by Liang Sen/Xinhua) Kim Keon-hee (C), wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, is seen at the Seoul Central District Court in Seoul, South Korea, Aug. 12, 2025. The Seoul Central District Court issued a warrant to detain Kim Keon-hee Tuesday night, on charges of violating the capital market act, the political funds act and a law on the acceptance of bribes for mediation, saying that the move aimed to prevent Kim from destroying evidence. Kim was jailed in the Seoul Southern Detention Center in Seoul, where she had been awaiting the court's decision after attending the court hearing on her detention. (NEWSIS/Handout via Xinhua) Success Ossai, the senior special assistant on media to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, has offered a paid job and an all-expenses-paid trip to Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger who allegedly assaulted the airline crew members. Mr Ossai announced this in a post on his Facebook page on Wednesday, shortly after Ms Emmanson was released from Kirikiri Prison in Lagos State. The media aide said Ms Emmanson would earn N500,000 as a monthly salary for the job which had been secured for her in Delta State. Im offering Comfort Emmanson a complimentary trip to Delta State, known as the Big Heart and Home of Global Tourism Hub. Additionally, a job opportunity with a monthly salary of N500,000 has been secured for her in Delta State, he stated. Mr Ossai said the offer also includes flight tickets, accommodation in a five-star hotel, a guided tour, and a ticket to the Delta Social Media Summit scheduled for 28 August in Asaba, the state capital. Ill give her good time Mr Ossai explained that the trip was intended to help Ms Emmanson relax after her release from prison. Id like to extend an invitation for her to visit Delta State and unwind after her release from Kirikiri prison. If youre in touch with her, please ask her to DM me. She wont be disappointed as I will be giving her a good time, he said. Background On 10 August, Ms Emmanson was accused of assaulting an Ibom Air attendant. The airline alleged that the issue started when she initially refused to switch off her phone before the flight took off in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. According to Ibom Air, the passenger, upon landing in Lagos, reportedly assaulted the flight hostess, who earlier instructed her to switch off her phone. But Ms Emmanson later denied refusing to switch off her device. A witness, David Ogebe, has confirmed her story, pointing out that she made sincere efforts to switch off the phone but encountered difficulties. The eyewitness, who said he sat close to her, said Ms Emmanson was triggered by the manner the air hostess addressed her before take-off. A video clip, which has now gone viral, showed her being dragged out of the plane with her clothes torn and parts of her body exposed on landing in Lagos. On Monday, Ms Emmanson was placed on a life ban from travelling by air in Nigeria. She was also arraigned before a magistrates court in Lagos, which sent her to prison after she failed to meet her bail conditions. The incident sparked outrage from many who compared her case with that of a musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, who was only suspended from travelling by air in Nigeria for a period despite being filmed trying to block a ValueJet plane from taking off. On Wednesday, Nigerias Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, ordered the lifting of the lifetime ban and withdrawal of charges against Ms Emmanson. She was consequently released from prison custody following the withdrawal of the case from the magistrates court in Ogba, Lagos. The police in Enugu State, Nigerias South-east, say they have arrested a suspected transnational human trafficker in the state. The suspect, Raymond Wonna, 30, hails from Yala Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigerias South-south. The police spokesperson in Enugu State, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday. Mr Ndukwe, a superintendent of police, said the police operatives rescued two trafficked teenage girls from the suspect. Like the suspect, the rescued victims hail from Yala Local Government Area, Cross River State, according to the police. They were intercepted on 30th July 2025, at about 2:00 p.m. by operatives of the Commands Crack Tactical Squad during a routine patrol along the EnuguOnitsha Expressway, Enugu, Mr Ndukwe said. Continuing, he said: Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were being trafficked to Ghana under the guise of securing job opportunities. Without the knowledge or consent of their parents or relatives, the suspect, who claimed to be a casual labourer, lured them from Ogoja, Cross River State, to work in a restaurant allegedly owned by his baby mama in Ghana. The spokesperson said further findings indicate that the suspect also attempted to rape the victims while lodging them in a hotel, where they were kept pending departure to Ghana. The victims have been safely returned home and reunited with their families, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the trafficking network, he stated. The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Bitrus Giwa, has commended the operatives for their vigilance and swift intervention, Mr Ndukwe said. Mr Giwa ordered an investigation and prosecution of the suspects involved in the alleged crime while urging police personnel to sustain the momentum against criminality in the state. The commissioner also reiterated the commitment of the police in the state to combating human trafficking and other violent crimes. The police chief called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the police for action. 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 human 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, Rivers 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 police in Imo State, South-east Nigeria, say they have arrested a suspected homosexual pastor for allegedly raping a 20-year-old woman in the state. The pastor, Ikenna Emmanuel, 32, hails from Umuobom, a community in Ideato-South Local Government Area of the state. He works at Authentic Power City Church. The police spokesperson in Imo State, Henry Okoye, said in a statement on Wednesday that operatives also arrested an alleged accomplice, Franklin Chizoba. How it happened Mr Okoye, a deputy superintendent of police, said Mr Chizoba allegedly lured the victim to the pastors residence on 30 June under the pretext that the pastor would pray for her. On arrival, the pastor reportedly gave her a drink. Shortly afterwards, she became dizzy, after which both suspects had unlawful carnal knowledge of her, the police spokesperson said. He said, upon receiving the information, police operatives from Orlu Division arrested Mr Chizoba and the pastor. During interrogation, both suspects confessed to the offence and further admitted to engaging in homosexual acts. They were subsequently charged to court on 12th August, 2025, and remanded at the Correctional Facility, Owerri, pending trial, he said. Man kills father in Imo Mr Okoye said, in a separate operation on 12 August, police operatives arrested a 39-year-old man, Ifeanyi Odinka, for allegedly stabbing his 75-year-old father, Denius Odinka, to death in Amaifeke, a community in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State. The police spokesperson said the son allegedly stabbed the father to death following a dispute over proceeds from a land sale. On interrogation, the suspect confessed to the crime. The murder suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Owerri, for further investigation and prosecution, he stated. Mr Okoye said the police in Imo State have reiterated their commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of all residents. He urged the residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant and to promptly report to the police all suspicious persons and activities for action. Prohibited in Nigeria Nigeria, in 2015, enacted the Violence against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which outlawed all forms of violence against women and girls, including rape, female circumcision and forceful ejection. Offenders, on conviction, face life imprisonment or a maximum of 14 years jail term, depending on the age of the offender and the type of violence committed. Several persons have been convicted by various courts of rape. An Ado-Ekiti High Court, in July 2022, sentenced a 49-year-old man, Dele Adeyanju, to four years imprisonment for raping an 11-year-old girl. A Bauchi High Court, in 2017, sentenced two middle-aged men to life in prison for raping a 40-year-old woman and plucking her eyes. Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) has expressed concern over the rising number of cholera cases in Zamfara State, calling for action to avert more loss of lives. The medical humanitarian organisation, also known as Doctors Without Borders, raised the alarm in a statement issued on Thursday. MSFs Medical Coordinator in Nigeria, David Kizito, said there are more than 1, 500 cases from three medical facilities the MSF had been supporting in the state. Mr Kizito added that other humanitarian actors and the states Ministry of Health had also reported high incidence rates in other parts of Zamfara. He said MSF had focused its response on hotspot areas such as Shinkafi, Zurmi, and Talata Mafara, where access to safe water remains critically low. According to him, while cholera has been endemic in Nigeria for decades, seasonal outbreaks often intensify between April and October. Flooding during the period contaminates water sources, accelerating the spread of the disease in areas with poor sanitation, He said cholera causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, and if untreated, can lead to rapid dehydration and death within hours. Mr Kizito also said that MSF had scaled up its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions and health promotion activities. This, he said, was alongside other humanitarian actors and the ministry of health, which activated a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) on 3 July. On expansion of cholera treatment, he said that MSF had began services in the state in mid-June, following the first suspected case at one of its supported facilities. According to him, this included boosting case management and surveillance, alongside scaled-up WASH activities. In Zurmi, MSF and other humanitarian actors supported the ministry in opening a Cholera Treatment Centre (CTC) at Zurmi General Hospital. In July, it also assisted the ministry in setting up a Cholera Treatment Unit (CTU) at Talata Mafara General Hospital and a CTC at Shinkafi General Hospital, he said. Mr Kizito said that between 16 June and 5 August, the Zurmi CTC reported 562 suspected cases, mostly from Yambuki, Kadamusa, and Zurmi town. He added that in Shinkafi General Hospital, about 401 cases were recorded between 11 July and 5 August, and the worst-affected areas being Shinkafi North Ward, particularly Alkalawa, Sabon Gari, and Kurya. He further said that 58 cases came from Isa LGA which has a border with Sokoto state. At the Talata Mafara CTU, more than 600 cases were recorded between 1 July and 8 August, with Kayaye accounting for the highest percentage; cases also came from Anka and Bakura LGAs, he said. MSFs Medical Coordinator in Nigeria said the outbreak was unfolding in a context of insecurity, displacement, and limited access to clean water and sanitation. The situation, he said, was exacerbated by the rainy season. He, however, assured of MSFs continuous commitment to working alongside communities, health authorities, and other partners to ensure timely treatment, prevention, and support. MSF emphasises the importance of setting up decentralised oral rehydration points and enabling all existing primary healthcare centres to treat mild and moderate suspected cholera cases. This will ensure timely treatment, reduce complications, and allow prompt referral to dedicated CTCs in hospitals such as Zurmi, Shinkafi, and Talata. Moreover, urgent cholera vaccination is needed to halt transmission and save lives, he said. Mr Kizito said that participation of everyone in Zamfara is needed to reduce the spread, stating, no one should die from a preventable disease. MSF Head of Mission in Nigeria, Ahmad Bilal, encouraged abiding by certain hygiene practices to reduce the risk of contracting the disease. Access to safe drinking water through boiling, practising regular handwashing, consuming freshly prepared meals and avoiding open defecation, Mr Bilal said. Also, keeping vaccinations up to date are straightforward yet highly effective measures to safeguard yourself and your family from preventable diseases. (NAN) The Defence Headquarters says troops eliminated several terrorist commanders, rescued 37 kidnapped victims, and apprehended dozens of suspects in nationwide operations between 7 and 13 August. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Markus Kangye, a major general, said this on Thursday in Abuja during the biweekly news briefing on military activities across all theatres of operation. He said the operations were carried out under the Joint Task Forces in the North-east, North-west, North-central, South-east, and South-south, with combined air and ground assaults supported by sister security agencies and hybrid forces. Our troops have continued to demonstrate courage, resilience, and determination to dismantle terrorist networks, defeat insurgency and banditry, and suppress all forms of criminality. The terrorists will to fight has been shattered, he said. In the North-east, Mr Kangye said the troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised several Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders in Limankara, Pulka, Kareto, and other locations in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. He said that 16 suspected terrorists were arrested, five hostages rescued, and weapons, vehicles, motorcycles, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) recovered and safely detonated. In the North-west, Mr Kangye said the troops of Operation Fasan Yamma killed scores of terrorists, arrested 11 suspects, and rescued 17 kidnapped victims in Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kaduna States. According to him, a suspected gunrunner was intercepted in Jamaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State, while concealing an AK-47 rifle and ammunition in a sack of animal feed. In the North-central, he said the troops of Operation Whirl Stroke engaged criminal gangs in Benue, Taraba, Kogi, and the FCT, killing several, arresting 13 suspects, and rescuing nine hostages. According to him, two notorious arms dealers were arrested in Lokoja, while a large cache of ammunition was recovered from an abandoned extremist camp in Taraba. In the South-south, Mr Kangye said the troops of Operation Delta Safe impounded 24,575 litres of stolen crude oil, 9,140 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 2,605 litres of petrol. He added that the troops destroyed illegal refining sites, seized boats and storage tanks, and arrested 34 suspects linked to oil theft, cultism, and kidnapping. In the South-east, he said the troops of Operation UDO KA nabbed six suspected IPOB/ESN members and a kidnapper in Imo, Anambra, and Ebonyi States, recovering arms, ammunition, and vehicles. READ ALSO: Nigerian military rejects Turkeys claim of presence of terror group Mr Kangye, however, dismissed an Amnesty International report alleging extrajudicial killings in the South-east, insisting that the military operates professionally and within the law. The Armed Forces of Nigeria are not involved in any extrajudicial killings. Such allegations are unfounded and misleading, he said. Mr Kangye urged Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifices of the troops in the field, adding that the troops gave their today for a safer country of tomorrow. (NAN) She was never a political actor in a strict sense of politics. Her terrain was only the media. However, the annulment of June 12 election, won by her husband, transformed her. When Concord Group of Newspapers was shut down for almost two years by a combination of the Babangida and Abachas regimes (a whole different story for another day), Dele Alake (then Editor of Sunday Concord and later National Concord), Segun Babatope, Chairman, Editorial Board and I became her closest allies. The phrase Gentlemen of the Press used for both male and female journalists, has no known origin. But it became popularised following the 1929 American film by Walter Huston, who portrayed the professional journalist as deprived of joys of ordinary life due to the exigencies of duty. So, with time, the phrase acquired a universal application in public discourse as a form of greeting in which journalists are gathered. And despite the heroic efforts of the Women Liber in the profession, the phrase has endured as a standard greeting at press gatherings. Surely, there are great women of the profession in history whose footprints far overshadow such gender resonances and whose solid contributions belie any claim to male superiority. One of such exemplars was Dr Doyin Abiola (nee Aboaba), wife of our national hero, Bashorun MKO Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election that gave birth to Nigerias present democracy. She had joined the journalism profession in 1970, with a degree from the prestigious University of Ibadan, with her employment as Features Editor of the then powerful Daily Times in Kakawa, Lagos Island. By the time I joined the profession fresh from National Youth Service in October 1985, Dr Doyin Abiola had become one of its leading lights. With a PhD from the famous New York University, she was the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of the Concord Group of Newspapers, arguably the leading publication in Nigerias media industry where I began. In my first two years in the Concord newsroom, I never came into personal contact with her. At best, our encounters were from afar: either that I was walking past her along the boardroom corridor or while in conversations with our senior editors. Of course, I was obliged to greet her with reverence. But as time rolled by and I stepped up the ladder, I saw her as a super boss who was exceptional in professional creativity and in providing editorial leadership. She was a great risk-taker in the profession and was never afraid when it came to competition and professional judgement. I was just six months in the position of Assistant Features Editor in 1989 when I was summoned to her office.Tunji, she asked, the management is thinking of making you the Group Political Editor, but some senior editors are saying you are too young for such a role at just 28. My reply was, Why dont you give me a trial first? Hearing me out, she replied, Ok, we shall go ahead. We went on to set up a Political Desk of brilliant minds, who later became media stars such as Sam Omatseye as deputy, Victor Ifijeh, Olusegun Adeniyi, Louis Odion and Gboyega Amobonye, popularly called Governor with unlimited mandate. Following the teams excellent coverage of several political news stories including Gideon Okars failed coup against Babangidas regime in 1990; our accurate prediction of Sir Michael Otedola as the next governor of Lagos State in 1991, even when the then National Electoral Commission (NEC) was still counting the votes; the formation and eventual dissolution of political parties such as Peoples Solidarity Party (PSP), the Peoples Front (PF), and Liberal Convention (LC); the imposition of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and National Republican Convention (NRC) by Babangidas regime; the visits to United Kingdom and the United States to report on the elections of John Major as prime minister and Bill Clinton as president respectively; the proposed publication of EXCLUSIVE on the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) meeting on proscription of June 12 election result in the Sunday Concord that almost led to the assassination of the Editor, Dele Alake, on Airport road by the regimes goons, she would later remark to me, Youve never disappointed me. And with the backing of our main editor then, Nsikak Essien (National Concord Editor), the sky was our limit. A few months prior, she had started what was thought to be impossible Nigerias first Saturday newspaper. This was achieved using another great star of the journalism profession, Mike Awoyinfa. Egbon Mike was my former features editor and I worked as a senior staff writer under him. He had been redeployed from Sunday Concord as Assistant Editor to be Features Editor when Ola Amupitan left, and soon after transforming the features pages to a must-read for Nigerians, legendary Mike ascended again to become the editor of the new Saturday newspaper, with the late Dimgba Igwe as his deputy. The newspaper was christened Weekend Concord. The Weekend Concord suddenly became Nigerias best-selling on the newsstands, with its compelling human-angle approach and salacious news story about events and people. She was not done yet. When the Babangidas regime floated the idea of the privatisation of public enterprises in Nigeria, Mrs Abiola summoned a select group of editors and editorial board members to a meeting on the need to study and report on how it had been done in other countries. Consequently, editors were deployed to different parts of the world about 20 countries where it had been done. I ended up visiting Mexico to do my own investigation. In the end, a book was produced on that experience, researched and written by Concord editors and senior staff. She was never a political actor in a strict sense of politics. Her terrain was only the media. However, the annulment of June 12 election, won by her husband, transformed her. When Concord Group of Newspapers was shut down for almost two years by a combination of the Babangida and Abachas regimes (a whole different story for another day), Dele Alake (then Editor of Sunday Concord and later National Concord), Segun Babatope, Chairman, Editorial Board and I became her closest allies. It was like a confirmation of the political aphorism, Never under-estimate a hitherto seemingly politically disinterested person when confronted with the challenge and reality of power politics. With no office to go to following the military barricade, she turned her residential apartment at Moshood Abiola crescent in Ikeja, Lagos to another fortress for us. Every day, the three of us would resume there to debate and work with some notable pro-democracy activists on daily moves, while pretending that we were not being monitored by members of the state security service. We were constantly in touch with local pro-June 12 activists and political exiles like our current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Her telephone and fax machines were at our beck and call. Sometimes, to shake off security trail, we had to use various decoys to enter and leave her house. By the time Concord was reopened in early 1996, with Bashorun Abiola still in detention, a lot of advertisers and suppliers deserted us out of fear of General Sani Abacha and his media crackdowns. After being left to bear the brunt, she stood tall as a leader and encouraged us to persevere. Dele Alake resumed as National Concord Editor and I took over as Sunday Concord Editor. And when Alake left to join Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubus cabinet in Lagos in 1999, she appointed me the National Concord Editor. We had thought the 1999 return to democracy was the salvation point following the death of our publisher in July 1998, but it was going to be the turning-point for the newspaper empire. The family politics and antagonism also set in. We needed substantial capital to rejuvenate Concord. Fortunately, there was a significant asset, which Lagos State Water Corporation was interested in and we agreed to sell it with Governor Tinubus endorsement. The payment was about to be finalised by the Lagos State Government when we saw a caveat emptor from some members of Abiolas family in some newspapers. That was the end of the transaction. This was followed by several other frustrations. And the staff became disillusioned. In November 2000, I walked up to her office to let her know I was resigning. She became disheartened and asked me to think it through. I asked for a months leave and it was from there that I sent in my letter of resignation. My resignation triggered some others. Kayode Komolafe as editor of Sunday Concord also resigned. Two days after learning of my resignation, the publisher of ThisDay, Prince Nduka Obaigena, gave me a call and offered me the Chairmanship of Editorial Board of ThisDay newspapers. Despite my departure from Concord, I grew even closer to the beloved media empress, Mrs Doyin Abiola, her wonderful only daughter, Doyin, and her husband, Bamise. I commiserate with them. And like a chapter in every book, it must have an end. Mrs Doyin Abiola has left us to join her great husband, MKO. May her soul rest in perfect peace. Goodnight, Aunty Doyin! Goodbye, Mummy Doyin! Tunji Bello, political scientist, lawyer and public administrator, is former editor of the National Concord and later Chairman, Editorial Board of ThisDay newspapers, past Secretary to the Lagos State Government and Commissioner for the Environment, is currently the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of FCCPC. Nigerian billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, will officially release his long-awaited memoir, Making It Big, to the public on 18 August 2025. The book will be available in selected bookshops across Nigeria, other African countries, and the United Kingdom. In the memoir, Mr Otedola chronicles his journey from his modest childhood in Lagos to becoming one of Africas most prominent entrepreneurs. The business mogulrenowned for leading companies such as Forte Oil, Geregu Power Plc and First HoldCo Plc offers insights on building wealth, navigating crises, and living a purposeful life. Making It Big blends personal anecdotes with lessons on leadership, risk-taking, and resilience. Making It Big is a masterclass in attaining and maintaining a positive mindset and a reminder that it is possible to defy the odds, no matter how stacked they are against you. Packed with personal philosophies and business lessons, this is a book of hope, backed up by solutions, written to inspire entrepreneurs in Africa and from everywhere. Below is a list of bookshops where the memoir can be purchased from 18 August: NIGERIA LAGOS OUIDA BOOKS PAGE BOOK CONNOISSEURS PATABAH BOOKS QUINTESSENCE IKOYI ROVING HEIGHTS VOG AND WOD BOOKSHOP ALARA LAGOS BOOK NOOK LIMITED BOOKPEDDLER NG GLENDORA JAZZHOLE GLENDORA IKEJA CITY MALL LATERNA BOOKS LAGOS/ABUJA EBEANO SUPERMARKETS ABUJA ADAMS PAGES KARATU BOOKS SPINE AND LABEL BOOKS THE BOOKMARKET NIGERIA PORT-HARCOURT BBIP BOOKSTORE PH CHAPTERS BOOKS LTD BOOKVILLE WORLD KENPHILOX BOOKSTORE UMUAHIA BELLA BOOKS UYO BOLDOZ BOOKSTORE ASABA FLOMAT BOOKS BENIN ZEKBOOKS ENUGU DAINZ BOOKSNG IBADAN BOOKSELLERS KENYA NAIROBI SOMA NAMI BOOKS PRESTIGE BOOKS CHECHE BOOKSTORE TEXT BOOK CENTRE KISUMU TEXT BOOK CENTRE MOMBASA MUCH A DO ABOUT BOOKS NANYUKI BOOKS & BLOOM GHANA ACCRA CITY READS READERS HUB GHANA VIDYA BOOKSTORE TANZANIA DAR ES SALAAM TPH BOOKSHOP ELITE BOOKSTORE DODOMA ELITE BOOKSTORE UGANDA KAMPALA MAHIRI BOOKSTORE TUBAZE BOOKSTORE SOUTH SUDAN JUBA KAKULE BOOKSTORES CAMEROON GVG SARL, ANGE MBELLE UNITED KINGDOM LONDON WATERSTONES UK BOOK PEDDLER UK LIMITED The renewed advocacy for the creation of Anioma State has ignited robust discussions concerning linguistic affinity, geopolitical alignment, and broader socio-economic and political considerations. In this context, Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, an Ukwuani dialect speaker, linguist, development expert, and communication scholar, offers a compelling perspective supporting the Anioma State movement. She argues that this movement is a historic and transformative idea, deeply anchored in language, heritage, and the pursuit of progress. It is a convergence of language and legacy, charting a forward-looking course for the Anioma people and the nation as a whole. Aniomas rightful place within Nigerias federation transcends traditional borders and embodies the principle of unity in diversity. Embrace the Moment: Why Anioma State is Essential Nigerias journey as a nation has always been about the transformative power of ideas ideas that reshape boundaries, empower communities, and ignite progress. Today, the call for Anioma State presents such an idea: fresh, rooted in history, forged by linguistic and cultural unity, and poised to carve out a bright new chapter for the people of Anioma and Nigeria at large. The vision for Anioma State is a movement for recognition, development, and justice. For those concerned or opposed to Anioma aligning with the South-east geopolitical zone, it is vital to address these apprehensions with historical context, linguistic facts, and a pragmatic, future-focused lens. This case leverages rich academic insight and evidence to assure all stakeholders that placing Anioma in the South-east not only honours historical and linguistic realities but also empowers the Anioma people and Nigeria as a whole. Historical Imperative: Decades of Aspiration The push for Anioma State is not a fleeting whim; it is deeply entrenched in decades of aspiration and collective efforts by the Anioma people. Tracing back through historical documents, the Anioma people have long desired a state that encapsulates their unique identity, geographically nestled in Delta North yet culturally resonant with their Igbo kin across the River Niger. Evidence on the historical trajectory of Anioma statehood shows that since Nigerias independence, the Anioma people, a distinct group in Delta North, have persistently called for a state that aligns with their identity, aspirations, and needs. The advocacy for Anioma State did not emerge in a vacuum. From early petitions to regional assemblies, through communal advocacy and political mobilisation, these efforts reveal a people united in purpose and persistent in the pursuit of autonomy, self-governance, and equitable resource management. These petitions, policy engagements, and community organising all demonstrate that the case for Anioma State is deeply rooted in the peoples collective experience and their quest for recognition, equitable resource distribution, and effective self-governance. The creation of Anioma State is not just about political boundaries; it is about affirming the dignity, heritage, and aspirations of millions who feel a natural belonging that current state structures do not fully acknowledge. Linguistic Affinity: An Undeniable Connection Distinguished scholars such as Joseph Greenberg, Kay Williamson, and John Bendor-Samuel have laid the groundwork in African linguistics, identifying profound connections among Nigerias ethno-linguistic groups. Their research highlights the strong linguistic affinity between Anioma dialects and Igbo languages, proving beyond doubt that the Anioma people are part of the greater Igbo ethno-linguistic family. This academic consensus firmly places the Anioma people within the Igboid language group, driven by robust lexico-statistical analysis. Williamsons survey of the Igboid languages reveals significant lexical similarity, supporting a close genetic relationship among these languages. Her analysis identifies shared core vocabulary items and cognates, which underscore the linguistic unity of the Anioma dialects within the Igboid family. This evidence strengthens the argument that Anioma should be recognised politically in alignment with their linguistic and cultural heritage. Specifically, Williamson stated that the lexicostatistic percentages of the Igboid lects are: Ikwerre (72%), Ogbah (77%), Igbo (79%), Ukwuani (73%), and Ekpeye (65%). These lects are closely related, with Ekpeye being the most distantly related. Furthermore, Greenbergs foundational research situates Anioma dialects within the Volta-Niger subgroup of the Niger-Congo family, alongside Igbo, confirming deep historical and linguistic ties. Bendor-Samuels extensive fieldwork further authenticated these ties, underscoring shared lexical, phonological, and syntactic features. This linguistic unity transcends administrative borders and speaks to a cultural identity that is organic, enduring, and deserving of political recognition through a distinct Anioma State. It demonstrates that Aniomas linguistic characteristics are not an administrative accident, but a birthright. Ipso facto, the South-east is defined not only by geography but by cultural and linguistic brotherhood, which Anioma naturally shares. Hence, it is essential to understand that advocating for the exclusion of Anioma from the South-east because some dialects claim not to have affinity with Igbo would ignore scholarly consensus and lived heritage. Acknowledging historical and linguistic realities builds trust in the Nigerian system and fosters stronger national unity. The advantage of shared heritage cannot be quantified as Anioma is largely inhabited by Igbo-speaking people who share cultural, linguistic, and historical ties with the South-east. Joining the South-east would reunite them with their kin, fostering cultural cohesion. Geopolitical Flexibility: A Vision for Nigerias Future Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District (Anioma), Prince Ned Munir Nwoko, the immediate past Asagba of Asaba, Professor Joseph Chike Edozien and Regina Daniels Nwoko (Photo credit princenednwoko Instagram) The opposition to Anioma joining the South-east is often rooted in concerns about political categorization. Yet, Nigerias geopolitical zones have historically been fluid. During the colonial era, we had Northern and Southern Protectorates; the First Republic saw North, East, and West Regions; post-independence witnessed the addition of the Mid-west Region; and today, we have six zones (North-central, North-east, North-west, South-east, South-south, and South-west). This history illustrates that geopolitical zones are not immutable; they evolve alongside Nigerias realities and can and will change as national conversations progress. As such, Aniomas present alignment should be seen as a bridge to the future, not a permanent division. Geographic assignment should therefore not supersede the Anioma peoples right to seize a historic opportunity for statehood. In fact, Aniomas acceptance of whichever geopolitical zone it will be allotted is an act of political maturity and strategic foresight, as history teaches us that geopolitical zones can and will be reconfigured as Nigeria grows and develops. Therefore, Anioma should seize this moment of state creation without resistance or parochial disquietude about geopolitical categorization. The statehood journey transcends zones; it is about securing recognition, governance autonomy, and unlocking development potential. Focusing on zone disputes could mean throwing away the baby with the bathwater; instead, this is the moment to prioritize progress over boundaries. The Case for Creation: Economic, Social, and Political Imperatives Beyond history and linguistics, an Anioma State promises to unlock sustainable development. The people of Anioma possess unique economic resources, cultural heritage, and human capital that remain under-utilized under broad jurisdictional administration. Statehood would unlock these assets via local governance and investment. A dedicated state government would enable tailor-made policies, infrastructure development, education focused on local needs, and foster investment opportunities. Politically, statehood offers a platform where Anioma voices carry full weight in Nigerias federal system, enhancing representation and participation. This is not about fragmentation but about federalism at its best, allowing diverse peoples to steer their destinies within an indivisible Nigeria. This would enhance the economic viability of the region by allowing the Anioma people to directly manage and benefit from their resources and potentials leveraging on the rich mineral endowments of the district which apart from being oil producing harbours the largest deposit of gas in West Africa. In summary, the agitation for the creation of Anioma State (from the present-day Delta North Senatorial District of Delta State) and placing it in the South-east geo-politicalzone has been discussed for decades, often in the context of political balancing, cultural identity, and economic development. Grouping Anioma State within the South-east geo-political zone comes with multiple advantages including political balancing and equity by bridging the state deficit in the South-east. The zone currently has only five states, while other zones have six or seven. Creating Anioma State will give the zone six states, putting it at par with others and strengthening its influence at the federal level. Secondly, creating Anioma will usher enhanced representation in the National Assembly.A new state would add new senators and representatives from Anioma, increasing the South-easts legislative weight. Anioma State will equally usher greater bargaining power in federal politicsbecause with more political voices from the South-east, the zone could negotiate better on national issues, appointments, and resource allocation. Many Anioma people see their current placement in Delta State (part of the South-south) as a colonial-era boundary decision that split them from the core South-east. Realignment could correct this perceived historical anomaly via the birth of Anioma State. Furthermore, being in the South-east could mean closer integration with Igbo economic networks, including Onitsha, Nnewi, Aba, and Enugu, Owerri, Awka, Aba boosting trade and transport links. Other social and identity benefits include the fact that Anioma peoples traditions, festivals, and heritage could get more visibility and policy support within a state aligned with their cultural roots just as Anioma could have a stronger voice in Igbo socio-cultural groups like Ohanaeze Ndigbo, giving them more say in pan-Igbo matters. Creation of Anioma State can bring about reduction of inter-ethnic tensions because the new state would escape the current competition for political dominance within the ethnically diverse Delta State and instead operate within a zone where ethnic affinity and harmony are greater. The creation of Anioma State is therefore not merely a regional call; it is a national imperative. It is a movement woven from historical precedence, linguistic reality, geopolitical pragmatism and visionary development. Again, the siting of Anioma State in the South-east is a step historically, linguistically and democratically justified. To naysayers and critics who see this as division or discord, historys lesson is clear: no force can halt an idea whose time has truly come. So, it is unstoppable, necessary and unifying for all. Embracing this transition with calm and strategic resolve will ensure that Anioma, Nigeria and all her people move courageously into a brighter future. The Anioma statehood movement is peaceful, democratic and forward-thinking; and has always favoured peaceful, lawful and inclusive methods, demonstrating readiness for responsible statehood. So, let us not throw away the baby with the bathwater by allowing fear or misunderstanding to derail an indigenous peoples quest for progress. Instead, let us embrace this as a moment to demonstrate Nigerias strength in unity, diverse yet cohesive; and to foster a hopeful future where every citizens identity and aspirations are recognised and celebrated. Let us, therefore, stand firm in peace, harness the power of this idea and ensure that the Anioma people step boldly into their rightful place within Nigerias federation. Nobody can stop an idea whose time has come! * Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, an Ukwuani dialect speaker, linguist, development expert and communication scholar, writes from Lagos. The Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, on Wednesday swore in Salim Abdulrahman as commissioner to the newly created states Ministry of Livestock Development. At the event at the Government House in Dutse, the governor announced that the creation of the ministry is a step to transform the livestock sector, collaborating with the Federal Government to boost food security, create jobs, and grow the economy. Governor Namadi stressed the importance of the new ministry in shaping the states economy and culture, saying that livestock and animal husbandry are not just an economic activity in Jigawa State; it is a way of life for most families for time immemorial, from generation to generation. The governors spokesperson, Hamisu Gumel, in a statement to reporters, said livestock is the second largest economic activity in the state after agriculture, saying that after farming, livestock activity is the main activity of the Jigawa State people. Today, we are making history in Jigawa State. For the first time, we have created the Ministry of Livestock. And today, we are making history we have sworn in the first Commissioner of Livestock in Jigawa State, Governor Namadi stated. We are all aware that livestock, apart from farming, is the second economic activity in Jigawa State. So its a huge potential and a big ministry as far as the government is concerned. We find it very necessary to create a ministry that will oversee the development of livestock in Jigawa State. The governor further said that the creation of the ministry was a deliberate effort by the state government to unlock the sectors vast potential. As a government, we have taken deliberate efforts to improve and develop the livestock sub-sector. We have made so many connections, we have made so many contacts, and very soon these contacts will start to materialise. And based on that, we feel it is important to create a ministry that will drive this process. On the choice of the pioneer commissioner, Governor Namadi expressed confidence in Professor Salim Abdurrahmans expertise. The person who was sworn in as Commissioner for Livestock hes a real professional; hes an expert in the field. I went through his CV; right from his BSc to MSc to PhD, it is all animal science. So theres no better person to spearhead that industry than Professor Salim. While congratulating Prof Salim Abdurrahman, the governor reminded him of the significance of his new role as the first and pioneer commissioner of this ministry, urging him to work towards impacting the lives of the people of Jigawa State. I want to caution you that you are on the verge of making history because you are the pioneer commissioner of this ministry. So if the ministry has an impact on the lives of the people of Jigawa State, history will be very kind to you. Otherwise, it will be a problem for you. The governor concluded by praying for the success of the ministry in improving the livelihoods of the people across the state. Livestock accounted for almost 10% of Jigawas Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022. The sector is considered to be very critical and vital to the development of our States economy and the attainment of our vision of Greater Jigawa. The Katsina State Government has inaugurated a Special Committee to assess and address malnutrition across the state, following recent reports highlighting the severity of the challenge. The ceremony, held at the Muhammadu Buhari Government House, Katsina, was presided over by Deputy Governor Malam Faruq Lawal Jobe, representing Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, who joined the event virtually. The committee is tasked with reviewing the recent Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) malnutrition report, identifying the most affected areas and households, recommending urgent measures, and advising on the effective distribution of assorted grains from government food reserves. The 15-member committee is chaired by Dr Ahmed Abdullahi Filin-Samji (Zakkat & Waqaf Board). The other members are Abdulrahman Abdullahi as Vice Chairman (representing Civil Society Organisations), representatives of Katsina State House of Assembly, Ministry of Special Duties, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), Katsina State Economic Development Authority (KASEDA), Izala and Darika Islamic sects, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Katsina and Daura Emirates. Other members of the committee are Executive Secretary, State Primary Healthcare Agency, General Manager, Katsina State Radio, Statistician-General, Coordinator, Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency (KASIPA) and the Coordinator, Community Development Programme (CDP). The Katsina State Primary Healthcare Agency will provide the Secretariat for the committee. Earlier In his remarks, Governor Radda expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to address the issue and welcomed the MSF report as a wake-up call, despite some contested aspects. I remember visiting one of the centres in July, and what I saw was deeply unpleasant to anyone with a heart, he said. We cannot deny that we have a problem of malnutritionnot just in Katsina, but across the country. We must act to ensure every child survives, receives education and healthcare, and enjoys the basic infrastructure for a better life. The Governor urged the committee to review the MSF report without bias, work with experts, and identify both high-burden areas and the most vulnerable households. He revealed that the government has food reserves purchased for emergencies, and that distribution to at-risk households should begin without delay. We want to see swift action. Submit your report quickly so we can start implementing recommendations. We thank allwhether critics or supporterswhose comments have pushed us to act faster, Mr Radda stated. He further stressed the need to examine the root causes of malnutrition, including insecurity, reduced food production, and harmful social practices. Citing the abandonment of children after divorce as a significant factor, he called for cultural change and legal measures to hold fathers accountable. As long as we do not address these marital and social issues, malnutrition, educational backwardness, and health challenges will persist. The earlier we tell ourselves the uncomfortable truth, the better, he warned. Governor Radda closed his remarks with a firm pledge: We as government will continue to do whatever we can to meet our mandateensuring everyone lives in peace, has something to eat, and has access to the opportunities life can offer. Also speaking, Deputy Governor Faruq Lawal Jobe reaffirmed the administrations unwavering commitment to eradicating malnutrition, stressing that the committees work will be central to shaping government action. This committees work will be crucial in guiding the governments response and ensuring that no community is left behind. You also have the liberty to co-opt any individual or group that can help in fulfilling this responsibility. I wish you Allahs guidance in carrying out this important task, he said. He outlined the committees terms of reference which include: Reviewing the recent malnutrition report released by MSF, Identifying the areas most affected by malnutrition, Pinpointing vulnerable households within these areas, Recommending additional measures to combat malnutrition, Advising on the most effective methods for distributing assorted grains to identified households, Submitting its report within two weeks of inauguration, Co-opting relevant individuals or groups to support its work. MANILA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said Thursday it has approved a policy-based loan of 500 million U.S. dollars to strengthen Indonesia's tax system modernization that will enhance tax collection efficiency, improve equity, and maintain fiscal resilience to fund critical public services and long-term development goals. The loan marks the first of three subprograms under the ADB's Domestic Resource Mobilization Program for Indonesia, the Manila-based bank said in a press release. "This program marks a pivotal moment in supporting Indonesia's fiscal sustainability agenda," said ADB Country Director for Indonesia Jiro Tominaga. "By modernizing tax administration through digitalization and strengthening international tax cooperation, Indonesia will be better positioned to finance its development priorities while maintaining macroeconomic stability," said Tominaga. Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has reassured the people of the state that his administration stands firm against negotiating with bandits who are terrorizing the state. The governor reaffirmed the vow on Thursday as he visited more communities that bandits recently attacked. A statement by the governors spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said the communities visited are Kagara, Dan Isa, and Kasuwar Daji, all in the Kauran Namoda local government area. The statement noted that the governor was on a condolence visit to affected communities to demonstrate his administrations commitment to their security. The governor reaffirmed to the affected communities that his administration will never negotiate with bandits. He said, Yesterday, I began a condolence visit to some communities that were recently targeted by bandits. Since we could not finish it yesterday, we are resuming the visit today. We visited three communities, where I met with the people and offered them words of encouragement from the government. Security is my governments top priority, and we are dedicating all our efforts to making sure we are doing it right protecting the lives and properties of our people. Since the start of my administration, I have made it clear that I wont negotiate with the bandits who are killing our people, and that remains the case. My administration will never negotiate with them because they have never shown any sincerity. I have noticed that the roads leading to most of these communities are in very poor condition. My government will repair these roads for the benefit of the communities, the governor promised. CHICAGO, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Aspen Group (TAG) Chairman and CEO Bob Fontana has been named the recipient of the 2025 Dental Titan Award, one of the dental industry's most prestigious honors, at the annual Dykema DSO Conference. At this year's annual Dykema DSO Conference, Bob Fontana, The Aspen Group (TAG) Chairman and CEO, was named the recipient of the 2025 Dental Titan Award. This is one of the dental industrys most prestigious honors presented by Brian Colao, Director of Dykema DSO Industry Group. Fontana was recognized for his visionary leadership, industry influence, and decades-long commitment to expanding access to high-quality dental care. Fontana was recognized for his visionary leadership, industry influence, and decades-long commitment to expanding access to high-quality dental care. The award, presented by Brian Colao, Director of Dykema's Dental Support Organizations Industry Group, places Fontana among an elite group of leaders whose work has reshaped the dental support organization (DSO) landscape. Since founding Aspen Dental in 1998 in Syracuse, New York, Fontana has grown it into the largest branded network of independently owned and operated dental practices in the U.S., serving millions of patients each year. His mission from day one: break down barriers to care and make dentistry easier for patients who need it most. Under Fontana's leadership, Aspen Dental evolved into The Aspen Group, the platform powering a new generation of healthcare brands. Supporting 1,400+ locations in 48 states, including Aspen Dental, ClearChoice, WellNow, Chapter Aesthetic Studio, and Lovet Pet Health Care, The Aspen Group gives bold, mission-driven brands and healthcare providers the infrastructure, support, and freedom to lead with integrity. Across dental, urgent care, aesthetics, and veterinary health, The Aspen Group is redefining care: faster, more accessible, and with a better experience and satisfaction at every touchpoint. "This award is a reflection of the extraordinary teams I've had the honor to work with throughout my career," said Fontana. "Together, we've built something special: A scalable platform that empowers healthcare professionals and removes barriers for the patients they serve." The Dental Titan Award is presented annually to individuals whose leadership and service have left a lasting mark on the dental profession. Fontana's recognition underscores his role as a driving force behind innovations in patient access, provider support, and scalable healthcare delivery models. ABOUT TAG THE ASPEN GROUP The Aspen Group (TAG) was built on the simple idea of bringing better healthcare to more people. TAG supports independent healthcare practices operating more than 1,400 locations in 48 states through five consumer healthcare brands: Aspen Dental, ClearChoice Dental Implant Center, WellNow Urgent Care, Chapter Aesthetic Studio and Lovet Pet Health Care (formerly AZPetVet). Combined, the companies serve more than 35,000 patients a day and more than nine million patients each year. For more information, visit teamtag.com, and follow us on LinkedIn. SOURCE TAG - The Aspen Group TAIPEI, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (IDX: BBRI) has expanded into Taiwan and East Asia with the launch of BRI Taipei Branch, located at No. 166, Sec. 3, Nanjing East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City. The Grand Launching of BRI Taipei Branch at Taipei City, on Friday (08/08/2025) At the Grand Launching Ceremony on Friday, August 8, 2025, Hery Gunardi, BRI's President Director, highlighted, "As the only Indonesian bank branch in Taiwan, BRI Taipei Branch is positioned as a comprehensive financial hub, serving around 360,000 Indonesian migrant workers with remittance, savings, and investment solutions to support their future financial planning." BRI Taipei Branch offers integrated financial services including savings, financing, and remittances, while introducing the Advance FX Licence and BRI ATM cards compatible with Taiwan's banking infrastructure. "Looking ahead, we also plan for BRI Taipei Branch to serve as an investment gateway from Taiwan to Indonesia, helping investors channel their funds through both direct and indirect investment avenues. With more competitive investment yields, we believe this will attract greater interest from Taiwanese investors," added Hery. At the same launching event, Arif Sulistyo, Head of the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei, said BRI's presence would boost IndonesiaTaiwan economic ties, noting nearly 400,000 Indonesians, mainly in caregiving and manufacturing, now reside in Taiwan. "Formal Indonesian migrant workers in Taiwan's manufacturing sector earn approximately 28,590 NTD (IDR 14 million), while those in domestic roles earn around 20,000 NTD (IDR 10 million). Each month, 4,000 to 6,000 new workers arrive in Taiwan, contributing to remittance flows exceeding IDR 40 trillion annually," explained Arif. BRI Taipei Branch has held a Full Retail Foreign Bank Branch Office license from Taiwan's financial authority since 2021, allowing it to offer services including deposits, loans, remittances, trade finance, and treasury. As part of its continued growth, BRI Taipei Branch is launching two new products: BRImo Taiwan, a banking super app enabling seamless transactions, including remittances to Indonesia; and BRI Taipei Future Saving, a time deposit program in NTD with instalment options over 12, 24, or 36 months. The Taiwan expansion strengthens BRI's international network, which includes BRI New York Agency (BRINYA), BRI Singapore Branch (BRISG), BRI Hong Kong Representative Office (BRI HKRO), BRI Timor Leste Branch (BRITL), and BRI Cayman Island Branch (BRICIB). Information about BANK BRI at www.bri.co.id. SOURCE PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia Tbk (BRI) BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- From August 8 to 10, 2025, the "China Up Close Series: Zhejiang Tour" brought a contingent of nearly 70 journalists and editors from South Korea, Spain, Bulgaria, and Iceland to Deqing, a county in Zhejiang province. Alongside CGTN (China Global Television Network), they trained their lenses and notebooks on the region, seeking to capture its landscapes, history and cultural rhythms for audiences abroad. The Naked Castle Resort a hilltop property that has become one of Deqing's signature attractions fuses eco-tourism with leisure and recreation. Perched amid forested slopes, it offered the visitors a glimpse of the county's slower mountain pace and the ways in which its natural setting is being enlisted to support sustainable development. At the AI Virtual Film Studio, run by Zhejiang-based Versatile Media, the group screened promotional films and was introduced to virtual production techniques. The centerpiece was the studio's "super screen system," a 270-degree curved LED wall stretching 50 meters (164 feet) across. As cinematic vistas unfurled, several stepped into the scene themselves, momentarily part of a big-budget production. The program also led the delegation to Meet the Earth's Core a cafe built inside a cave as well as the OSM Pearl Museum, Xiazhu Lake National Wetland Park, Xinshi Ancient Town and Mocun Resort. Each stop added another layer to the portrait of a county balancing heritage with a modern creative edge. SOURCE CCTV+ BEIJING, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With 240 hours, visitors from afar can discover the countless wonders hidden within Guizhou, the "Park Province." Known as the "Emerald on the Earth's Belt," this land unfurls a magnificent, three-dimensional karst masterpiece for the world, made effortlessly accessible by transit visa exemption. At dawn, stand on the viewing platform of Huangguoshu Waterfall. Watch the mighty silver cascadecarved by millennia of geological forcesplunge from the 77.8-meter-high cliff. Rainbows dance in the mist, interwoven with the resonant beat of bronze drums played by elderly Buyi people. By afternoon, drive to Libo's Zhangjiang River. Glide through the emerald valleys of Xiaoqikong on a bamboo raft, where the water shifts through secret hues from emerald to peacock blue with the play of light and shadow. Macaques occasionally leap between ancient trees and hanging vines along the banks. As dusk settles, witness thousands of lights ignite in Xijiang Thousand Households Miao Village, like stars cascading into the valley. Learn the Lusheng dance with Miao girls and savor a bite of sour fish soup at the long-table feastthe tangy aroma, brewed from tomatoes and litsea cubeba, embodies the local wisdom of "nourishing the body with sourness." For the culturally inclined, visit Zhaoxing Dong Village to hear the mesmerizing a cappella Dong Grand Chorus. Watch embroiderers weave mountains, rivers, flowers, and birds into intricate patterns with flying fingertips. Or, sit quietly at the observation deck of the "China Sky Eye" in Pingtang, waiting for the radio telescope to capture cosmic pulses from billions of light-years away. Within those 240 hours, you can marvel at the dove trees blooming like fluttering white doves amidst Fanjing Mountain's sea of clouds, and also discover a century-old braised pig's trotter on the stone-paved lanes of Qingyan Ancient Town. Bolstered by the visa exemption policy, services like multilingual guides and international payment options are continuously improving. This "natural air-conditioned province," blessed with refreshing summer temperatures around 23C, extends a global invitation for a rendezvous with stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures. Every moment spent here becomes a vivid footnote to the saying: "Travel all over China, the most beautiful is colorful Guizhou." SOURCE CCTV+ Longtime educator and Army veteran to oversee campus dedicated entirely to skilled trades training. PHOENIX and SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Technical Institute (UTI), the transportation, skilled trades, electrical, and energy division of Universal Technical Institute, Inc., today announced that Christopher Finn has been appointed Campus President of UTI-San Antonio. Chris Finn named UTI-San Antonio Campus President Currently under construction, UTI-San Antonio, located at 5776 Stemmons Drive, will be UTI's first campus dedicated entirely to skilled trades training. Pending all regulatory approvals, the new 50,000-square-foot facility will offer hands-on programs in Aviation, Welding, and HVACR, and a comprehensive electrical training suite that includes Electrical, Electronics & Industrial Technology, Robotics & Automation, and Wind Turbine Technician. UTI-San Antonio will become the fourth UTI campus in Texas, joining existing locations in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Houston. The campus is part of UTI Inc.'s North Star growth strategy, which includes opening two new UTI campuses. "Chris understands what it takes to build a campus culture that puts students first and brings faculty and staff together around a shared mission," said Tracy Lorenz, President of the UTI Division. "His leadership is exactly what we need as we expand our presence in Texas and respond to the region's demand for skilled, career-ready technicians. UTI-San Antonio is more than a new campusit's a long-term investment in students, industry, and the future of workforce education in the state." "San Antonio's vibrant manufacturing and energy sectors need career-ready technicians," said Dr. Christopher Finn. "As Campus President, I'm honored to lead the launch of this new campus, support the success of our students, and build a collaborative culture among faculty and staff. Together with our community partners, we'll help students turn their passion into professional momentum from day one." About Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Universal Technical Institute, Inc. was founded in 1965 and is a leading workforce solutions provider serving students, partners and communities nationwide. The company offers high-quality education and support services for in-demand careers via its two divisions: UTI and Concorde Career Colleges. The UTI division operates 15 campuses located in nine states and offers a wide range of transportation, skilled trades, electrical and energy training programs. Concorde operates across 17 campuses in eight states and online, offering programs in the allied health, dental, nursing, patient care and diagnostic fields. For more information, visit www.uti.edu or www.concorde.edu; LinkedIn at @UniversalTechnicalInstitute and @Concorde Career Colleges; or X at @news_UTI and @ConcordeCareer. Media Contact Alanna Vitucci [email protected] 480.710.6843 SOURCE Universal Technical Institute, Inc. Dr. Rod J. Rohrich recently spoke at two major plastic surgery meetings in Miami, presenting on revision rhinoplasty and surgical innovation while serving as keynote speaker and panelist. MIAMI, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Renowned Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Rod J. Rohrich recently served as a featured speaker at two leading plastic surgery meetings in Miami, where he delivered a series of advanced lectures and educational presentations on rhinoplasty and innovation in plastic surgery. A globally recognized leader in the field, Dr. Rohrich continues to contribute extensively to the education of plastic surgeons worldwide through his involvement in international symposia, academic meetings, and surgical training programs. Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Rod J. Rohrich At the Miami Society of Plastic Surgeons annual meeting, Dr. Rohrich delivered the evening's keynote address, titled "Innovations Life Lessons in Plastic Surgery." In this presentation, he reflected on the evolving landscape of aesthetic surgery, emphasizing the role of surgical refinement, mentorship, and lifelong learning in achieving sustained excellence and safety in patient outcomes. In addition to his keynote, Dr. Rohrich served as a judge for the Resident Research Presentations, offering feedback and recognition to emerging talent in the field. "It is incredibly rewarding to engage with the next generation of plastic surgeons," said Dr. Rohrich. "These meetings are not only a chance to share what we've learned over the years, but also to foster an environment where new ideas can flourish. Innovation begins with education." Dr. Rohrich also participated in the International Meeting of Rhinoplasty Societies (IMRhiS), a globally attended conference focused on the complexities of nasal surgery. He presented multiple advanced instructional lectures including "Preventing the Failed Rhinoplasty: Key Principles for Revision Rhinoplasty," and "Master Class: Mastering Consistency and Excellence in Rhinoplasty." He also taught through a detailed operative case video on secondary rhinoplasty, offering attendees insight into managing complex revision cases. In addition to his presentations, Dr. Rohrich served as both a moderator and a panelist in expert-led discussions, contributing to collaborative sessions on surgical technique, complication avoidance, and long-term outcomes in nasal surgery. These meetings highlight Dr. Rohrich's continued dedication to surgical education and excellence. As the founding Chair of both the Dallas Rhinoplasty Meeting and the Dallas Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine Meeting, Dr. Rohrich has long been recognized as one of the most active voices in plastic surgery education globally. He is also the author of several foundational textbooks on rhinoplasty and aesthetic surgery, including Dallas Rhinoplasty: Nasal Surgery by the Masters. "Rhinoplasty remains the most technically demanding operation in aesthetic plastic surgery," said Dr. Rohrich. "Achieving consistency and long-term success in rhinoplasty requires a structured, individualized, and evidence-based approach." About Rod J. Rohrich, M.D., F.A.C.S. Dr. Rod J. Rohrich is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Dallas, Texas, and a Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. He served as a Distinguished Teaching Professor and Chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He trained at Baylor, the University of Michigan, Harvard/Mass General, and Oxford. A leader in the field, Dr. Rohrich chairs the Dallas Rhinoplasty Meeting, founded the Dallas Cosmetic Surgery Meeting, and is a founding partner of the Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute. He has been named Newsweek's top U.S. plastic surgeon in rhinoplasty and facelift surgery five years straight. He is the emeritus Editor-in-Chief of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, has published 1,000+ peer-reviewed articles and authored eight textbooks. He is a past president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (largest global society of plastic surgeons) and has received multiple Plastic Surgery Foundation Distinguished Service Awards for his contributions to education and research. SOURCE Dr. Rod J. Rohrich Velico's FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma Achieves Key Milestone with First-in-Human Safety Trial BEVERLY, Mass., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Trauma doesn't wait, and neither should treatment. Despite advancements in emergency medical services, 42% of hemorrhaging car crash victims die after help arrives, not due to delays, but because life-saving blood products like plasma are unavailable at the point of care. Without blood products in ambulances, helicopters, or rural clinics, many patients don't survive. First-in-Human Trial Demonstrates FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma Safety FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma Velico recently completed its first-in-human Phase I multi-center clinical trial of FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma in healthy volunteers. The dose-escalation study with a randomized, crossover cohort demonstrated the safety of the spray dried plasma, with no serious adverse events or safety signals reported. "This trial marks the beginning of a new era in plasma therapy," said Dr. Mark Popovsky, Chief Medical Officer at Velico. "A plasma product that's safe, portable, and transfusion-ready in just 2.5 minutes could transform how trauma is treated - both on the battlefield and in civilian emergencies." Addressing a Global Shortage in Plasma Supply The clinical success comes at a time when the global supply of dried plasma is critically low - fewer than 30,000 units exist worldwide, and production is highly centralized in a few countries. This scarcity threatens national and global health security, particularly in the face of increasing conflict, natural disasters, and mass casualty events. FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma is specifically designed to address this gap. It is produced through a decentralized model, ensuring accessibility where it's needed most. The product is shelf-stable for up to 24 months, ultra-lightweight for easy transport and rapid field deployment, and can be quickly reconstituted for immediate use in emergencies. These features would enable governments and healthcare systems to build resilient, decentralized plasma reserves, improving emergency readiness across both civilian and military sectors. "Current limited supply of dried plasma requires a new solution," said Richard Meehan, CEO of Velico. "This is about preparedness and sovereignty. Nations need the ability to invest in domestic capacity now, or they may face being unprepared when the next crisis hits." Recognition from the Medical Community Velico's clinical trial findings will be featured as a plenary presentation at the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB) Annual Meeting this October a significant acknowledgment of the FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma's relevance to the future of transfusion medicine and trauma care. CAUTION: Investigational device. Limited by Federal (or US) law to investigational use. The FrontlineODP Spray Dried Plasma System has not received FDA or EU approval for any indication. Regulatory requirements of individual countries and regions will determine approval, clearance, or market availability. Velico's development program has been funded in whole or in part with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under contract number 75A50121C00059. About Velico Velico is a private US medical technology company, committed to the mission of eliminating preventable death from bleeding. Headquartered in Beverly, Massachusetts, USA. Velico personnel have substantial expertise and experience in transfusion medicine and medical device development. In support of its mission, Velico is developing partnerships with civilian, government and military blood center leadership, trauma surgeons, emergency medical physicians, military medics and first responders worldwide. For more information visit www.veli.co Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750857/Velico_Medical_Lady_ODP.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2152986/Velico_Medical_Logo.jpg Increased production : In the second quarter of 2025, gold production was 42,587 ounces, representing a 20% increase over the prior quarter. : In the second quarter of 2025, gold production was 42,587 ounces, representing a 20% increase over the prior quarter. Record free cash flow generation : $60.2 million of free cash flow (2) and $79.8 million of cash provided by operating activities were generated in the second quarter. The Corporation expects strong ongoing free cash flow (2) at current gold prices through the remainder of 2025. : of free cash flow and of cash provided by operating activities were generated in the second quarter. The Corporation expects strong ongoing free cash flow at current gold prices through the remainder of 2025. Generating robust margins : Reported all-in sustaining cost (2) (" AISC ") per ounce of gold sold of $1,170 , compared to an average realized gold price (2) of $3,014 per ounce year to date. : Reported all-in sustaining cost (" ") per ounce of gold sold of , compared to an average realized gold price of per ounce year to date. Record quarterly revenue of $129.6 million , representing a 32% increase over the prior quarter. of , representing a 32% increase over the prior quarter. Record adjusted EBITDA (Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) (2) of $92.9 million during the quarter and $161.0 million year to date. (Earnings before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization) of during the quarter and year to date. Strong profitability : Reported net income of $48.6 million , or $0.21 per share, and $73.1 million , or $0.32 per share year to date. : Reported net income of , or per share, and , or per share year to date. Strong liquidity : Cash balance was $156.1 million at the end of the second quarter, an increase of $7 million over the prior quarter. : Cash balance was at the end of the second quarter, an increase of over the prior quarter. Advancing Oko West: Early works activities continue to progress rapidly with $63 million of development capital spent year to date. Detailed engineering is 19% complete, with approximately $190 million committed. Recent Corporate Highlights Achieved nameplate capacity at the Tocantinzinho ("TZ") processing plant operating at 96% of designed throughput of 12,890 tonnes per day during May and June. operating at 96% of designed throughput of 12,890 tonnes per day during May and June. Received a court ruling (State) that removes a longstanding regulatory constraint on the Gurupi Project in Brazil , providing GMIN with the green light to advance the project with clarity. providing GMIN with the green light to advance the project with clarity. Published GMIN's third annual environmental, social and governance ("ESG") report. "Q2 was a pivotal quarter for GMIN, as we achieved nameplate throughput at TZ and delivered a step-change in gold production and free cash flow," said Louis-Pierre Gignac, President & Chief Executive Officer. "With strong operating performance and disciplined cost management, we generated over $60 million in free cash flow (2), strengthening our balance sheet and enabling us to advance our high-potential growth pipeline. The completion of the Oko West Feasibility Study and immanent receipt of the Final Environmental Permit, along with resolution of legacy permitting issues at Gurupi provide clear visibility on our next phases of development. These results reflect the strength of both our team and our strategy to build GMIN into the next multi-asset, mid-tier gold producer." TZ Operational Results (1): Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 In thousands of $, except as otherwise noted Mining Activities Ore Tonnes Mined kt 1,649 - 3,161 - Waste Tonnes Mined kt 2,707 - 4,902 - Total Tonnes Mined kt 4,356 - 8,063 - Strip Ratio Waste/ore 1.64 - 1.55 - Average Gold Grade of Ore Mined g/t Au 1.35 1.19 Processing Activities Total Tonnes Processed kt 1,011 - 1,915 - Average Plant Throughput tpd 11,107 - 10,579 - Average Gold Recovery % 90.30 - 89.10 - Average Gold Grade of Ore Processed g/t Au 1.45 - 1.43 - Gold Produced oz 42,587 - 78,165 - Gold Sold oz 40,082 - 75,517 - Unit Costs Average Realized Gold Price (2) $/oz 3,233 - 3,014 - Average Gold Price Received (2) (4) $/oz 2,992 - 2,787 - Total Cash Costs (2) $/oz 763 - 728 - Site-Level AISC (2) $/oz 1,246 - 1,053 - AISC (2) $/oz 1,355 - 1,170 - Financial Results ( 1 ) : Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 In thousands of $, except as otherwise noted Revenue $ 129,594 - 227,612 - Cost of Goods Sold $ (44,317) - (82,450) - Net Income (Loss) $ 48,626 (5,339) 73,055 (9,899) Per Share Basic $/share 0.21 (0.05) 0.32 (0.09) Adjusted Net Income (Loss) (2) $ 36,502 (2,626) 71,477 (4,440) Per share Basic $/share 0.16 (0.02) 0.32 (0.04) EBITDA (2) $ 104,258 (5,306) 170,972 (9,820) Adjusted EBITDA (2) $ 92,851 (2,593) 160,987 (4,361) Cash Provided by Operating Activities $ 79,767 (6,766) 110,291 (16,571) Per share Basic $/share 0.35 (0.06) 0.49 (0.15) Free Cash Flow (2) $ 60,224 (6,766) 96,186 (16,571) Per share Basic $/share 0.27 (0.06) 0.43 (0.15) Financial Position As at June 30, As at December 31, In thousands of $, except as otherwise noted 2025 2024 Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 156,119 141,215 Financial Highlights Gold sales totaled 40,082 ounces, generating $129.6 million in revenue at an average realized gold price(2) of $3,233 per ounce benefiting from both higher production and stronger gold prices compared to Q1 2025. Cash costs (2) were $763 per ounce, while AISC (2) totaled $1,355 per ounce, largely driven by the timing of sustaining capital expenditures, including non-recurring mobile fleet purchases. As these one-time investments are now complete, the Corporation anticipates AISC will decline in the second half of the year. Cash flow from operations totaled $79.8 million, resulting in free cash flow (2) of $60.2 million ($0.27 per share) and a cash balance of $156.1 million at quarter-end. Adjusted EBITDA (2) totaled $92.9 million, reflecting the combination of higher gold sales and continued cost discipline. Adjusted net income (2) was $36.5 million ($0.16 per share). The Corporation ended the quarter with $156.1 million in cash and equivalents, up from $149.0 million in Q1. This increase reflects strong free cash flow (2) generation, partially offset by continued investment in Oko West, exploration activities and working capital. This robust liquidity position provides the Corporation with the flexibility to fund ongoing development at Oko West and Gurupi without requiring near-term external capital. Reconciliation of Cash Costs and AISC (2) Q2 2025 Q2 2024 YTD 2025 YTD 2024 In thousands of $, except as otherwise noted Operating Expenses $ 26,572 - 47,915 - Royalties $ 4,019 - 7,096 - Total Cash Costs $ 30,591 - 55,011 - Sustaining Capital and others* $ 19,358 - 24,517 - Site Level AISC (2) $ 49,949 - 79,528 - G&A Expenses (3) $ 4,376 - 8,830 - Total AISC (2) $ 54,325 - 88,358 - Cash Costs (2) $/oz 763 - 728 - Site Level AISC (2) $/oz 1,246 - 1,053 - AISC (2) $/oz 1,355 - 1,170 - *Comprised of Sustaining capital expenditures, capitalized stripping (sustaining), exploration (sustaining) and accretion to rehabilitation provision (ARO). TZ Q2 2025 Operating Summary The second quarter marked a key milestone in the ramp-up of TZ Gold Mine. In June, the plant achieved nameplate throughput, averaging 12,890 tonnes per day over a 30-day period, following the installation of new steel liners in the semi-autogenous grinding mill. This upgrade has resulted in improved equipment availability and metallurgical performance. Gold production of 42,587 ounces represents approximately 23% of full-year midpoint guidance of 187,500 ounces. Average plant throughput for the quarter was 11,107 tpd, or 86% of nameplate capacity, compared to 78% in Q1. Gold recovery raised to 90.3%, compared to 87.7% in Q1, supported by improved plant stability and efficient operation assisted by the expert control system. Processed grade averaged 1.45 g/t Au, in line with the mine plan. Mining rate increased to approximately 4.4 million tonnes, including 1.6 million tonnes of ore, resulting in a strip ratio of 1.64x. Ore stockpiles at quarter-end totaled 6.0 million tonnes at 0.77 g/t Au, providing flexibility for blending and mill feed optimization in H2 2025. TZ Sustaining Capital Q2 2025 sustaining capital totaled $18.6 million, primarily for additions to the mobile fleet, tailings management, and mill optimization. Full-year sustaining capital remains forecast between $6070 million, with $3646 million expected in H2, ~40% of which is allocated to capitalized stripping as TZ transitions to steady-state operations. Now entering steady-state operations, TZ will focus on maintaining throughput, improving recovery, and lowering unit costs. Oko West Development Update In April 2025, GMIN published the results of the Feasibility Study for Oko West, outlining a long-life, low-cost, and high-margin operation. Key highlights include: Average annual production of 350,000 ounces over a 12.3-year mine life AISC of $1,123 per ounce and initial capital cost of $972 million per ounce and initial capital cost of Base case after-tax NPV 5 % of $2.2 billion and IRR of 27% at a gold price of $2,500 per ounce % of and IRR of 27% at a gold price of per ounce Upside case after-tax NPV 5 % of $3.2 billion and IRR of 35% at a gold price of $3,000 per ounce Early works construction commenced in March and is progressing on schedule, including road access, camp construction, and a wharf facility. With substantial completion targeted by year-end, these activities will position the project to move confidently into full construction in the coming year. Environmental permitting advanced during the quarter. Following the submission of the full Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ("ESIA") to Guyana's Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") in late May, the EPA has now approved the ESIA, and we are imminently awaiting the grant of the Full Environment Permit, marking a key regulatory milestone for construction readiness. Exploration activities at Oko West continued during the quarter, with drilling focused on near-pit extensions based on a new interpretation of the mineralized zone known as the "splay model." Trenching and mapping also progressed along the main shear zone south of the pit. The Corporation's 2025 exploration strategy remains focused on expanding mineral resources along the shear zone and identifying additional targets across the broader land package. Gurupi Regulatory Clarity and Path Forward In July 2025, the Corporation announced a favourable decision by the Federal Court of Maranhao in Brazil, confirming its right to restart the permitting process for the Gurupi Project under its current ownership. This ruling invalidated outdated licenses issued to prior operators and cleared the way for GMIN to pursue new environmental and mining permits. Following this legal resolution, the Corporation is progressing toward the receipt of exploration permits to restart drilling activities. In parallel, new baseline environmental and social studies will be initiated, and early engagement has begun with local communities and stakeholders. The Gurupi Project, located in Maranhao State, Brazil, hosts 1.83 million ounces of indicated and 0.77 million ounces of inferred mineral resources across a large and prospective land package. The Corporation is reviewing historical exploration data and assessing future drilling opportunities to evaluate potential resource expansion and further validate the geological model. In light of recent positive developments, an additional $4 million budget has been allocated to launch an inaugural drill program in the second half of the year. ESG Highlights On July 30, 2025 GMIN published its 2024 ESG Report, outlining key achievements and future targets: Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (TRIFR) of 0.08 over 2.5 million hours worked 94% of process water recycled; 74% of solid waste reused 33 hectares reforested and over 10,000 plants and animals monitored More than R$174 million ( US$32 million ) spent with local suppliers in 2024 In H2 2025, the Corporation will expand reforestation efforts and enhance stakeholder engagement programs across its portfolio. Liquidity and Capital Resources The Corporation ended Q2 2025 with a cash and cash equivalents balance of $156.1 million, compared to $149.0 million at the end of Q1 2025, reflecting continued strong free cash flow generation and disciplined capital deployment. The $7 million increase in cash, quarter over quarter is primarily attributed to the following: Free cash flow (2) totaled $60 million , driven by higher gold sales and improved operational performance at the TZ Mine totaled , driven by higher gold sales and improved operational performance at the TZ Mine Non-sustaining investments (2) of $51 million , largely directed toward the continued development of the Oko West Project, including early works and long-lead equipment purchases and of , largely directed toward the continued development of the Oko West Project, including early works and long-lead equipment purchases and Net financing outflows, investments in long term inventories and foreign exchange adjustments of approximately $2 million This strong cash position supports the Corporation's self-funded growth strategy and provides financial flexibility to continue advancing both Oko West and Gurupi without the need for immediate external capital. (1) These measures are non-IFRS financial measures. Refer to section "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" in the associated MD&A for further information and a detailed reconciliation to comparable IFRS measures. 2025 Outlook GMIN reaffirms its full-year 2025 production guidance of 175,000 to 200,000 ounces of gold with an expectation of being at the lower end of guidance. As planned, production is weighted toward the second half of the year, reflecting improved throughput and recoveries as the TZ Mine transitions to steady-state operations. During the first half of the year, TZ produced 78,165 ounces, 45% of the lower end of our annual guidance range. Cost guidance is increased by $30 per ounce to reflect the impact of State of Para enacted legislation increasing the Tax for Control, Monitoring, and Oversight of Mining Activities ("TRFM"), effective March 27, 2025, and subsequently revised on May 21, 2025, through Decree No. 4,677. The AISC guidance is therefore adjusted at $1,025 to $1,155 per ounce sold. The Corporation also maintains its full-year capital and cost guidance with an increased exploration budget for Gurupi, as summarized below: Operational & Cost Guidance Guidance 2025 TZ Mine Gold Production k oz 175 to 200 Cash Costs $/oz Au sold $620 to $685 was $590 to $655 AISC(2) $/oz Au sold $1,025 to $1,155 was $995 to $1,125 Sustaining Capital Expenditures Sustaining $M $35 to $45 Near-mine exploration $M $2 Capitalized Waste Stripping $M $23 Total Sustaining $M $60 to $70 Non-Sustaining Capital Expenditures TZ Regional Exploration $M $9 Oko West Exploration $M $8 Oko West Project $M $200 to $240 Gurupi $M $6 to $8 was $2 to $4 Total Non-Sustaining $M $223 to $265 was $219 to $261 Note: Guidance assumes a realized gold price of $2,350 and BRL/USD of 5.25 The Corporation remains focused on operational excellence, disciplined capital deployment, and delivering long-term value through its self-funded growth strategy. Development milestones at Oko West and Gurupi remain on track. 2025 Catalysts In the second half of 2025, the Corporation expects to: Finalize project financing and make a construction decision for Oko West (H2 2025) Advance detailed engineering and continue early works activities at Oko West (2025) Continue environmental permitting activities at both Oko West (Q3 2025) and Gurupi Progress exploration initiatives-both greenfield and brownfield-across TZ, Oko West and Gurupi Second Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call and Webcast A conference call to discuss details of GMIN's second quarter 2025 results will be held by senior management on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 9:00 AM (E.S.T.). Participants may join the conference call using the following call-in details: Conference ID: 2442486 Participant Toll-Free Dial-In Number: 1-800-715-9871 Participant International Dial-In Number: 1-646-307-1963 Participants can also access a live webcast of the conference call via https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/vnz2p26e or via the GMIN website at: https://gmin.gold/investors/presentations-and-events/ A replay of this conference call will be available via the webcast for 12 months. Replay details will be provided on the GMIN website 24 hours after the call at: https://gmin.gold/investors/presentations-and-events/. Qualified Person Louis-Pierre Gignac, President & Chief Executive Officer of GMIN, a QP as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed the press release on behalf of the Corporation and has approved the technical disclosure contained in this press release. About G Mining Ventures Corp. G Mining Ventures Corp. is a mining company engaged in the acquisition, exploration and development of precious metal projects to capitalize on the value uplift from successful mine development. GMIN is well-positioned to grow into the next mid-tier precious metals producer by leveraging strong access to capital and proven development expertise. GMIN is currently anchored by the Tocantinzinho Mine in Brazil, supported by the Gurupi Project in Brazil and the Oko West Project in Guyana all with significant exploration upside and located in mining-friendly jurisdictions. GMIN trades on the TSX under the symbol "GMIN". Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of certain securities laws and are based on expectations and projections as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, those related to (i) the Corporation being on track to deliver 2025 production, cost and capital guidance; (ii) the AISC at TZ being expected to decline in H2-2025; (iii) higher-grade ore to become accessible at TZ during H2-2025; (iv) the expected ramp-up of TZ, notably as a result of improved equipment availability and metallurgical performance; (v) the ore stockpiles providing flexibility for mill feed optimization in H2-2025; (vi) the full-year forecasted sustaining capital expenditures for TZ; (vii) the Oko West mining license anticipated in Q3-2025; (viii) a project financing package expected later this year and the expected full-scale construction at Oko West in 2026; (ix) the feasibility study outlining a robust, long-life and economically viable high-margin Oko West; * the long-lead equipment purchases for Oko West; (xi) the start of a new baseline environmental and social studies for Gurupi and the additional exploration budget therefor; (xii) GMIN's 2025 exploration strategy and the expected expansion of mineral resources resulting therefrom; (xiii) the quoted comments and expectations of GMIN's President & Chief Executive Officer; and (xiv) more generally, the sections entitled "2025 Outlook" (notably the table setting forth the Corporation's operational & cost guidance), "2025 Catalysts" and "About G Mining Ventures Corp.". Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the time of this press release. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon several estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Corporation as of the time of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. These estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. Such assumptions include, without limitation, those relating to the price of gold and currency exchange rates, those outlined in the feasibility and other technical studies relating to TZ, Oko West, Gurupi and GMIN's other projects, and those underlying the items listed on the above sections entitled "2025 Outlook", "2025 Catalysts" and "About G Mining Ventures Corp.". Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that, notably but without limitation, (i) GMIN's positive safety record will continue over time and GMIN will continue to deliver free cash flow in subsequent quarters; (ii) any of GMIN's exploration targets at TZ, Oko West and Gurupi will lead to additional resources and eventually to gold production; (iii) GMIN will continue to experience gold sales at a high price combined with cost discipline; (iv) GMIN will continue to benefit from the TZ plant stability and efficient control thereat, and from a processed grade that will remain in line with the mine plan; (v) the early works construction will prove a major step forward for advancing Oko West and will be substantially completed by year-end; (vi) a construction decision will be made in respect of Oko West later in 2025, or at all, (vii) Oko West will be brought into commercial production, (viii) gold recoveries at TZ will remain strong and in line with feasibility study expectations, (ix) the Oko West economics (e.g., AISC, NPV, IRR) will materialize as set out in its feasibility study; * GMIN will receive the mining license for Oko West in Q3 2025, or at all; (xi) GMIN will receive the relevant exploration permits to restart drilling activities at Gurupi and, following the court ruling, the project will effectively advance with clarity; or (xii) GMIN will use TZ and Oko West to grow into the next intermediate producer, as future events could differ materially from what is currently anticipated by the Corporation. In addition, there can be no assurance that Brazil and/or Guyana will remain mining friendly and prospective jurisdictions. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important risk factors and future events could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those made in the Corporation's other filings with the securities regulators of Canada including, but not limited to, the cautionary statements made in the relevant sections of the Corporation's (i) Annual Information Form dated March 27, 2025, for the financial year ended December 31, 2024, and (iii) Management Discussion & Analysis. The Corporation cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive, and new, unforeseeable risks may arise from time to time. The Corporation disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law. __________ (1) Additional details are available in the Corporation's Consolidated Financial Statement and Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com under the Corporation's profile. (2) These measures are non-IFRS financial measures. Refer to section "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" for further information and a detailed reconciliation to comparable IFRS measures. (3) This amount excludes corporate depreciation and amortization expenses totaling $38,000 and $72,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. This amount also excludes non-sustaining allocation of G&A Costs totaling $(629,000) and $402,000 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025. (4) The average gold price received excludes non-cash portion of the average realized gold price Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Tabular amounts expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars) June 30, December 31, 2025 2024 $ $ Assets Current Cash and Cash Equivalents 156,119 141,215 Receivables and Other Current Assets 4,439 5,155 Inventories 50,970 37,588 Prepaid Expenses and Deposits 3,562 2,640 215,090 186,598 Non-current Deferred Financing Fees 751 743 Derivative Financial Assets 1,737 - Inventories 40,229 21,183 Long Term Deposits on Equipment 33,965 876 Property, Plant & Equipment and Mineral Property 550,987 498,105 Intangible Assets 32,731 31,146 Exploration and Evaluation Assets 780,173 702,336 Income Tax Recoverable 8,322 - Investment in Associate 3,522 3,546 Other Non-current Assets 41,773 28,976 1,709,280 1,473,509 Liabilities Current Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities 35,893 25,065 Income Tax Payable 42,485 - Deferred Consideration Payable 60,000 60,000 Current Portion of Contract Liability 37,350 36,197 Current Portion of Lease Liability 543 104 Current Portion of Long-term Debt 34,393 24,572 210,664 145,938 Non-current Long-term Contract Liability 207,160 220,426 Long-term Debt 73,065 89,182 Long-term Lease Liability 463 902 Deferred Tax Liability 11,815 3,407 Rehabilitation Provision 4,739 2,976 297,242 316,893 Shareholders' Equity Share Capital 1,095,114 1,082,691 Share-based Payments Reserve 14,584 19,433 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 2,406 (107,916) Retained Earnings 89,270 16,470 1,201,374 1,010,678 1,709,280 1,473,509 Refer to Q2 2025 Financial Statements for accompanying notes Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) (Tabular amounts expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars, except for number of shares) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 $ $ $ $ Revenue 129,594 - 227,612 - Cost of Goods Sold (44,317) - (82,450) - Income From Mining Operations 85,277 - 145,162 - Other (Income) Expenses General & Administrative Expenses 3,785 1,875 9,304 4,171 Finance Expense 5,685 - 11,435 - Change in Fair Value of Financial Instruments (7,883) 2,445 (8,300) 5,090 Foreign Exchange (151) 918 2,325 1,020 Other (Income) Expenses (968) 101 (1,627) (382) 468 5,339 13,137 9,899 Income (Loss) Before Income Tax 84,809 (5,339) 132,025 (9,899) Current and Deferred Income Tax Expense (36,183) - (58,970) - Net Income (Loss) for the Period 48,626 (5,339) 73,055 (9,899) Net Income (Loss) per Share Basic 0.21 (0.05) 0.32 (0.09) Diluted 0.21 (0.05) 0.32 (0.09) Weighted Average Number of Common Shares Basic 226,205,719 112,974,114 225,735,715 112,431,055 Diluted 229,868,055 112,974,114 229,191,425 112,431,055 Refer to Q2 2025 Financial Statements for accompanying notes Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tabular amounts expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars, except for number of shares) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 $ $ $ $ Net Income (Loss) for the Period 48,626 (5,339) 73,055 (9,899) Currency Translation Adjustment 72,178 (55,337) 110,322 (72,498) Net Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Period 120,804 (60,676) 183,377 (82,397) Refer to Q2 2025 Financial Statements for accompanying notes Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Tabular amounts expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars, except for number of shares) Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 $ $ $ $ Operating Activities Net Income (Loss) for the Period 48,626 (5,339) 73,055 (9,899) Items Not Involving Cash Depreciation 13,763 33 27,511 79 Share-based Compensation 1,352 143 2,665 368 Unrealized Foreign Exchange Loss (Gain) (3,524) 702 (1,685) 802 Deferred Income Tax Expense (717) - 8,407 - Depletion of Gold Streaming Agreement Deposit (6,445) - (12,883) - Finance Expense 5,685 - 11,435 - Current Income Tax in Comprehensive Income (2,177) - (11,215) - Change in Fair Value of Financial Instruments (7,883) 2,445 (8,300) 5,096 Cumulative Catch-up Adjustment on Gold Streaming Agreement (3,208) - (4,240) - Other 289 157 446 272 45,761 (1,859) 85,196 (3,282) Change in Operating Assets and Liabilities Receivables and Other Assets (375) (300) (8,514) (905) Inventories (6,454) (9,695) (17,285) (16,641) Prepaid Expenses and Deposits (1,169) 533 (570) 191 Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities 42,004 4,555 51,464 4,066 Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities 79,767 (6,766) 110,291 (16,571) Investing Activities Additions of PP&E and Mineral Property, net of Long-term Deposit (39,859) (41,502) (55,035) (101,894) Deferred Costs - (3,723) - (4,023) Exploration and Evaluation Expenditures (28,923) 138 (38,406) (381) Cash Used in Investing Activities (68,782) (45,087) (93,441) (106,298) Financing Activities Replacement Options Exercised 2,595 - 4,644 - Repayment of Long-term Debt (7,848) (2,186) (12,721) (2,347) Net Proceeds from the Drawdowns of Long-term Debt - 35,688 - 76,848 Proceeds From the Exercise of Warrants - 10,647 - 10,647 Other 111 (45) 11 (90) Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities (5,142) 44,104 (8,066) 85,058 Effect on Foreign Exchange Rate Differences on Cash and Cash Equivalents 1,306 202 6,120 (1,328) Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents 7,149 (7,547) 14,904 (39,139) Cash and Cash Equivalents, Beginning of the Period 148,970 20,806 141,215 52,398 Cash and Cash Equivalents, End of the Period 156,119 13,259 156,119 13,259 Refer to Q2 2025 Financial Statements for accompanying notes SOURCE G Mining Ventures Corp OSLO, Norway, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hexagon Composites (OSE: HEX.OL), world leader in composite cylinder technology and related systems for storage and transportation of clean gaseous energy reported revenues of NOK 674 million for second quarter 2025 (Q2'24: 1 150 million). The reported EBITDA was NOK 12 million (Q2'24: NOK 137 million), resulting in a 2% EBITDA margin (Q2'24: 12%). "After consecutive record years, our Mobile Pipeline segment has been significantly impacted by broader market uncertainty and capital investment delays, heavily affecting our revenue and EBITDA," said Philipp Schramm, CEO of Hexagon Composites. "Positively, despite the trucking and freight industries continuing their negative trend, our Fuel Systems segment delivered solid first half results due to strong demand in the refuse sector." Outlook We continue to navigate these macro-economic challenges, while taking steps to ensure we position ourselves for further growth. Our technology has been proven across multiple applications and industries, and we are pleased to see that our solutions are succeeding in driving energy transformation in new and emerging markets as well. When the market recovers, as the leader, Hexagon is in pole position to capture long-term profitable and sustainable growth and continue to drive this industry forward. For further details, please see the attached first quarter 2025 report and presentation. Presentation of the results today at 08:30 am CET Philipp Schramm, CEO and David Bandele, CFO will present the results at 08:30 am CET today, broadcasted live via this link: https://akercreativehub.eventcdn.net/events/hexagon-composites-webcast-q2-2025 The presentation of the results will be a virtual event, followed by a Q&A session. A recording of the presentation will be made available on www.hexagongroup.com. This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. This stock exchange release was published by Berit-Cathrin Hyvik, Senior Director Communications, Hexagon Composites ASA at the time and date provided. For more information: David Bandele, CFO, Hexagon Composites Telephone +47 920 91 483 I [email protected] Berit-Cathrin Hyvik, Senior Director, Communications, Hexagon Composites Telephone: +47 988 92 161 | [email protected] 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 www.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-composites-asa--second-quarter-2025,c4217798 The following files are available for download: SEOUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- South Korea's government on Thursday saw positive signs of economic recovery on the back of consumption growth that offset lingering uncertainties. The Ministry of Economy and Finance said in its monthly report, called Green Book, that concerns remained about the Asian economy affected by a delayed recovery in construction investment, employment difficulties for vulnerable groups and export slump from the U.S. tariffs imposition. The ministry, however, noted that positive signs of economic recovery were also seen as consumer spending turned upward, thanks to policy effects. It said the global economy was worried about facing continued volatility in the global financial market and sluggishness in trade and growth due to the worsened trade environment, vowing to rapidly implement its supplementary budget and support local companies damaged by the U.S. tariff imposition. As part of its extra budget plan, the government began to offer cash handouts to all people last month in a bid to bolster the sagging private consumption. Sentiment among consumers over economic situations improved for four consecutive months in July. Credit card spending expanded 6.3 percent in July from a year earlier, while the number of Chinese tourists visiting the country surged 36.2 percent in the cited month. Exports swelled 5.9 percent in July from a year earlier, while shipments to the United States added 1.4 percent in July after sliding for the past three months. Facility investment retreated 3.7 percent in June compared to the previous month, but retail sales gained 0.5 percent in the same month. The number of jobs rose 171,000 in July from a year earlier, and the jobless rate fell 0.1 percentage point to 2.4 percent. Consumer prices grew 2.1 percent in July on a yearly basis, slower than the increase of 2.2 percent in June. TORONTO, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kruse Law Firm, a leading Ontario criminal defence practice, is raising urgent awareness about the life-altering consequences of false allegations involving intimate partner misconduct or other sensitive criminal accusations. With Statistics Canada reporting thousands of unfounded cases each year, the firm has expanded its specialized defense team to meet rising demand and uphold the principle of due process. Kruse Law Firm Publishes a Warning - The Impact of False Allegations Involving Intimate Partner Misconduct While deliberately false reports remain relatively uncommonestimated between 2% and 8% of all complaintsthis still represents thousands of Canadians affected annually. In 2023 alone, more than 2,500 reports under Level 1 criminal misconduct were deemed "unfounded" by police. A Hidden Legal Reality "False allegations in these cases are among the most difficult scenarios in criminal law," says Mike Kruse, founding partner of Kruse Law Firm. "The justice system must protect both genuine complainants and those wrongfully accused. Denying the existence of false reports undermines that balance." The personal toll for the accused can be immediate and devastatingoften before an investigation concludes. Many face job loss, irreparable reputational harm, public shaming, and social isolation. In today's digital environment, these consequences can persist indefinitely, with online records and media coverage remaining long after charges are dropped or dismissed. Expanding Expertise to Protect the Accused To address the growing complexity of such cases, Kruse Law Firm has expanded its criminal defence team, recently welcoming lawyer Alexis Tandazo. Her experience with serious criminal matters strengthens the firm's ability to deliver strategic, rights-based defence in high-stakes cases. "These cases require legal professionals who understand both the emotional and legal complexities," adds Kruse. "It's not just about lawit's about protecting a person's future." Immediate Action is Critical The firm advises that anyone accused of intimate partner misconduct should seek legal counsel immediatelybefore speaking to police, the complainant, or even close acquaintances. Key defence strategies include: Preserving digital evidence (texts, emails, social media) Identifying contradictions in statements or timelines Exploring possible motives behind false accusation "Exercising the right to remain silent isn't just protectedit's essential," Kruse emphasizes. "One wrong step early on can have lasting consequences." As public dialogue around intimate partner issues evolves, Kruse Law Firm continues to advocate for the presumption of innocence, fair legal processes, and the protection of rights for all involved. About Kruse Law Firm Founded in 1993 by Michael Kruse, Kruse Law Firm has spent more than 27 years defending clients facing criminal charges across Ontario. Michael Kruse, a former Assistant Crown Attorney, brings extensive trial experience to the firm, having prosecuted and defended hundreds of cases in both the Superior Court of Justice and the Ontario Court of Justice. The firm's philosophy is simple: "Tell us your sidewe'll handle it," offering not just legal representation, but trusted guidance through complex and high-stakes situations. https://www.kruselaw.ca/ https://www.youtube.com/embed/oHs6ZZ_Q-Hk (embedded video) Contact Michael Kruse Kruse Law Firm [email protected] 1-800-699-0806 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2751076/Kruse_Law_Firm.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2751075/Kruse_Law_Firm_Logo.jpg SOURCE Kruse Law Firm New Jersey Department of Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo, Assemblywoman Tennille McCoy, Plainsboro Township Mayor Edmund Yates, Middlesex County Board of Commissioners Director Ronald Rios, New Jersey Institute of Technology President Teik Lim, and more joined Made Scientific to celebrate the visionary new facility redefining cell therapy manufacturing PRINCETON, N.J., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Made Scientific, a leading U.S.-based cell therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), held a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday to commemorate the grand opening of its new 60,000 sq. ft. GMP manufacturing facility and headquarters in Princeton, New Jersey. Joining Made Scientific were representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Andy Kim and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who presented a proclamation, along with other federal, state, and local partners. The event marked a major milestone for the company and the region, underscoring New Jersey's role in the growing national landscape of advanced biomanufacturing and cell and gene therapy innovation. Industry leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders join Made Scientific to celebrate grand opening of flagship cell therapy manufacturing facility. "Made Scientific's investment in Plainsboro Township is a testament to how New Jersey continues to lead the nation in life sciences and advanced biomanufacturing," said Governor Phil Murphy. "Investing in this new facility creates good-paying, high-quality jobs for New Jerseyans. We are proud of companies like Made Scientific that are fueling the advancement of life-saving therapies and driving our innovation economy forward." "We are very pleased that Made Scientific, a leading cell therapy CDMO, has made the decision to locate its new headquarters and GMP manufacturing facility here in Plainsboro. It reinforces the strength of our town and workforce that locating in Plainsboro is a positive decision for Made Scientific and other pharma and biotech companies," said Mayor Edmund Yates. "We know that Made Scientific will have a transformative impact in the development and manufacturing of breakthrough medicines for patients worldwide. We welcome other similar companies to join Made Scientific in Plainsboro." The opening marks the completion of a $12 million initial investment in facility upgrades, equipment, and business system digitization, strengthening Made Scientific's position in the rapidly growing cell therapy sector and commitment to building long-term manufacturing capacity to support the next generation of cell therapies globally. A second phase of expansion has already been announced, and the company is expected to grow its workforce with more than 100 additional skilled professionals, strengthening the company's regional presence and industry influence. "Today is more than a ribbon cutting. It is a clear signal of our commitment to this incredible industry and to this region," said Syed T. Husain, Chairman and CEO of Made Scientific. "This facility is a testament to our dedication to supporting the next generation of cell therapy innovators for clinical-to-commercial manufacturing, all under one roof. With a globally compliant infrastructure, high-throughput GMP capacity, and a world-class team built for precision and speed, we are here to help our partners bring transformative therapies to patients with confidence and efficiency." Industry leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders joined the celebration, which featured remarks, a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided tours, and networking. Guests explored purpose-built process development labs and GMP cleanroom suites designed to support scalable GMP manufacturing for both autologous and allogeneic therapies. The Princeton facility includes five (5) ISO 7 / Grade B cleanrooms, in-house quality control labs, and dedicated process and analytical development capabilities. It also incorporates advanced digital infrastructure, including Oracle NetSuite for Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Veeva Systems for Quality Management (QMS), Autolomous AutoloMATE for Electronic Batch Records and Manufacturing Execution (MES), and LabVantage for Laboratory Information Management (LIMS), ensuring end-to-end program visibility and operational rigor. As part of its broader expansion, the event highlighted Made Scientific's recent announcement of an additional 12,000 square-foot build-out of GMP manufacturing cleanroom space, which will meet U.S. FDA and EU Annex 1 compliance standards and include high-throughput and automated manufacturing technologies. Once fully operational, the expansion will increase capacity by up to 2,000 additional batches per year to support late-phase and commercial programs. This expansion further establishes the Princeton headquarters as a Center of Excellence for clinical-and-commercial supply. With continued investments in infrastructure, people, processes, and systems, Made Scientific remains focused on its mission: Defy limits, deliver results. For more information, visit madescientific.com or contact [email protected]. About Made Scientific Made Scientific is a leading US-based cell therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) dedicated to advancing the field of cell therapy. Since 2019, the company has specialized in developing, manufacturing, and releasing autologous and allogeneic cell therapy products for early- to mid-stage clinical trials and has evolved into an end-to-end clinical-to-commercial service provider. Operating from two U.S.-based manufacturing facilities, Made Scientific combines the agility and entrepreneurial spirit of a specialist CDMO with the global expertise and resources of GC Corporation of South Korea, a global leader in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. SOURCE Made Scientific, Inc. Located on Nieuwendijk Street, one of Amsterdam's oldest and busiest pedestrian shopping streets and just steps from Dam Square and Amsterdam Central Station. MINISO's three-story, around 1,000-square-meter flagship features a number of upgraded design elements. A large-scale Stitch-themed figure makes a striking statement at the storefront. Multiple immersive IP-themed zones, including Sanrio, Disney, Harry Potter, BT21, Care Bear, Minecraft and the newly launched One Piece collection, occupy over 90% of the store space, creating a compelling and immersive retail destination for local consumers. With approximately 4,000 SKUs spanning plush toys, blind boxes, mini collectibles, and lifestyle accessories, the flagship is tailored for trend-savvy shoppers looking for the latest in creative, fun, and highly engaging products. Among these is a curated selection of MINISO's most popular collectible toy lines, including hit vinyl plush toys that have taken Gen Z and young adult shoppers by storm around the world with their fun emotional appeal and cultural relevance. To celebrate the opening of the new flagship, MINISO launched a colorful series of immersive activities in the iconic capital city. Highlights included a lively dance performance and a parade at Dam Square, PENPEN engaging with customers and a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the flagship store's main entrance. These events generated a joyful buzz, positioning the store as a must-visit new landmark in the city. As part of the interactive experience, MINISO also invited shoppers to a Fluffy Carnival where they could receive stamps in their exclusive MINISO Plush Icon Passport and redeem for plush icon mini suitcases in return for purchasing vinyl plush products. The new Amsterdam flagship store adds to MINISO's growing retail footprint across the Netherlands, including locations in key cities like Rotterdam, Utrecht, and Almere, as the brand continues its steady expansion across the market. With current trends like collectible toys and anime culture continuing to rise in popularity among younger consumers, MINISO is well-positioned to respond quickly to market demands by bringing more stylish, fun, and functional products to the Dutch market. The launch of this flagship store marks a fresh upgrade for MINISO as gets set to introduce more high quality products and revamped store concepts to the Netherlands and other markets across Europe. About MINISO MINISO Group is a global lifestyle brand offering a variety of design-led lifestyle products. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO's wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand "MINISO" as a globally recognized retail brand and established a massive store network worldwide. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750366/MINISO_Opens_New_Amsterdam_Flagship.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750367/Multiple_immersive_IP_themed_zones.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750368/The_Three_Story_Store_Offers_around_4000_different_products.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750369/MINISO_Amsterdam_Store_Opening_Ceremony.jpg WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED MUNICH, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nagarro, a global digital engineering leader, today presented its unaudited financial numbers for Q2 2025 and released its half-yearly financial report. In Q2 2025, revenue grew to 252.0 million, up 3.2% YoY from 244.1 million in Q2 2024. Constant currency YoY revenue growth for Q2 2025 was 4.7%. Organic YoY revenue growth for the quarter was 3.8% in constant currency, which translated to 2.4% organic YoY revenue growth in Euro terms. Gross profit grew to 83.7 million in Q2 2025 from 73.3 million in Q2 2024. Gross margin was 33.2% in Q2 2025, against 30.0% in Q2 2024. Despite excellent operational efficiency in Q1 and Q2 2025, Adjusted EBITDA was significantly impacted by the revaluation loss on inter-company loans from Nagarro SE and its cash holdings due to the weakening of the US dollar against the Euro. Across Q1 and Q2 2025, the total impact on Adjusted EBITDA of currency revaluation plus foreign exchange forward transactions was a negative 18.0 million. Consequently, Adjusted EBITDA for Q2 2025 was 30.5 million (12.1% of revenue), against 35.5 million (14.5% of revenue) in Q2 2024. EBITDA declined to 32.0 million in Q2 2025, from 32.8 million in Q2 2024. EBIT grew marginally to 23.4 million in Q2 2025, from 23.1 million in Q2 2024. Net profit declined to 8.3 million in Q2 2025 against 12.0 million in Q2 2024 mainly due to increase in income tax expense on account of withholding taxes on inter-company dividends remitted by downstream subsidiaries to their immediate holding companies. The number of clients doing more than 1 million in annual revenue in the last 12 months with Nagarro rose from 184 on June 30, 2024 to 188 on June 30, 2025. A dividend of 1.00 per share amounting to 12.6 million (13.1% of 2024 EBIT) has been declared during the Annual General Meeting held on June 30, 2025. H1 results Revenue grew to 498.9 million in H1 2025, up 3.4% YoY from 482.4 million in H1 2024. Constant currency revenue growth for H1 2025 was 3.6%. Organic YoY revenue growth for H1 2025 was 2.8% in constant currency, which translated to 2.6% organic YoY revenue growth in Euro terms. Gross profit grew to 159.3 million in H1 2025 from 146.9 million in H1 2024. Gross margin was 31.9% in H1 2025, against 30.5% in H1 2024. Adjusted EBITDA was 60.8 million (12.2% of revenue) in H1 2025, against 74.7 million (15.5% of revenue) in H1 2024. EBITDA declined to 65.0 million in H1 2025 from 68.8 million in H1 2024. EBIT declined to 47.5 million in H1 2025 from 49.7 million in H1 2024. Net profit declined to 19.6 million in H1 2025 against 28.6 million in H1 2024 mainly due to increase in income tax expense on account of withholding taxes on inter-company dividends remitted by downstream subsidiaries to their immediate holding companies. Operating cash inflow in H1 2025 declined to 26.1 million from 27.6 million in H1 2024, even while factoring utilization under the non-recourse factoring program was reduced by 8.5 million in H1 2025 from December 31, 2024. Days of sales outstanding, calculated based on the quarterly revenue and including both contract assets and trade receivables, has improved from 88 days on December 31, 2024 to 85 days on June 30, 2025. Nagarro's cash balance at the end of June 30, 2025 was 121.8 million as against 192.6 million at the end of December 31, 2024. Nagarro's loans and borrowings at the end of June 30, 2025, were 300.7 million as against 329.6 million at the end of December 31, 2024. The company reported 17,447 professionals as of June 30, 2025. The summarized table for the three-months period ended June 30, 2025 is as follows: Q2 2025 Q2 2024 Growth mEUR mEUR Revenue 252.0 244.1 3.2% YoY 4.7% YoY in constant currency Gross profit 83.7 73.3 14.2% YoY Gross margin 33.2 % 30.0 % Adjusted EBITDA 30.5 35.5 Negative 14.1% YoY Adjusted EBITDA margin 12.1 % 14.5 % EBITDA 32.0 32.8 Negative 2.4% YoY EBIT 23.4 23.1 1.3% YoY Net profit 8.3 12.0 Negative 30.8% YoY The summarized table for the six-months period ended June 30, 2025 is as follows: H1 2025 H1 2024 Growth mEUR mEUR Revenue 498.9 482.4 3.4% YoY 3.6% YoY in constant currency Gross profit 159.3 146.9 8.4% YoY Gross margin 31.9 % 30.5 % Adjusted EBITDA 60.8 74.7 Negative 18.6% YoY Adjusted EBITDA margin 12.2 % 15.5 % EBITDA 65.0 68.8 Negative 5.5% YoY EBIT 47.5 49.7 Negative 4.4% YoY Net profit 19.6 28.6 Negative 31.5% YoY Supervisory Board committees The committees of Nagarro's Supervisory Board have been freshly reconstituted. Martin Enderle, Chair of the Supervisory Board, is also the Chair of the Nomination & Remuneration Committee. Until recently he was Chair of the Supervisory Board of Delivery Hero. Hans-Paul Buerkner, who was previously global CEO and Chairman of BCG, is the Chair of the Strategy Committee. Jack Clemons, who was global CEO of Bata and has been on various other boards, including being Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF), is Chair of the Audit Committee. Update on guidance On January 23, 2025, we had projected Nagarro's revenue for 2025 to be between 1,020 and 1,080 million, when calculated at the currency exchange rates then prevailing. We now expect Nagarro's revenue for 2025 to come near the lower end of that guidance. We targeted gross margin in the region of 30%, as compared to 30.4% in 2024. We hold to this expectation of gross margin. We targeted the Adjusted EBITDA margin to be between 14.5% and 15.5%, compared to 15.2% in 2024. Despite strong underlying operational performance of the company, the revaluation loss on inter-company loans and cash holdings because of the weakening of the US dollar against the Euro is currently expected to lead the Adjusted EBITDA margin to be between 13.5% and 14.5%. Nagarro SE will hold its analyst and investors meeting as a video call to discuss the half-yearly financial report 2025 on August 14, 2025, 1:00 pm CEST (4:00 am PT / 6:00 am CT / 7:00 am ET / 12:00 pm BST / 3:00 pm GST / 4:30 pm IST / 7:00 pm SGT / 8:00 pm JST). Nagarro SE will hold its retail investors call to discuss the half-yearly financial report 2025 on August 14, 2025, at 2:30 pm CEST (5:30 am PT / 7:30 am CT / 8:30 am ET / 1:30 pm BST / 4:30 pm GST / 6:00 pm IST / 8:30 pm SGT / 9:30 pm JST). To attend, please register in advance at https://www.nagarro.com/en/investor-relations/half-yearly-q2-statements-call-2025. About Nagarro Nagarro, a global digital engineering leader, helps clients become fluidic, innovative, digital-first companies and thus win in their markets. The company is distinguished by its entrepreneurial, agile, and global character, its CARING mindset, and its Fluidic Enterprise vision. Nagarro employs around 17,400 people in 39 countries. For more information, visit www.nagarro.com. (FRA: NA9) (SDAX/TecDAX: DE000A3H2200) (ISIN: DE000A3H2200) (WKN: A3H220) For inquiries, please contact [email protected]. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/844192/3850575/Nagarro_Logo.jpg Donor generosity provides lasting support for physician leadership, innovation and patient care in Orange County ORANGE, Calif., Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation has announced the establishment of its first two endowed chairs, prestigious honors that mark a significant milestone in the history of Providence St. Joseph Hospital Orange and reflect the community's deep commitment to advancing world-class care in Orange County. Endowed chairs honor physicians whose work transforms lives. Importantly, they provide sustained funding to support clinical innovation, advance research and improve outcomes. These appointments are key to attracting and supporting the brightest minds in medicine. "These endowed chairs represent a historic moment for our hospital and the communities we serve," said Amy Daugherty, chief philanthropy officer. "They are a powerful expression of gratitude, a vote of confidence in our exceptional physicians and a commitment to excellence that will benefit future generations." The newly established chairs follow. The McCulloch Family Distinguished Endowed Chair in Comprehensive Cardiac Care Ben and Laurie McCulloch made a remarkable estate gift to create the McCulloch Family Distinguished Endowed Chair in Comprehensive Cardiac Care, Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation's first-ever endowed chair. Cardiologist Brian Kolski, M.D., has been named as the inaugural endowed chair holder. Under the care of Dr. Kolski, Thuy Le, M.D., Jeffrey Tyler, M.D. and Katie Cornella, PA-C, Ben's life was saved many times through the years. When it became clear that a transplant wasn't a viable path forward, Ben turned once again to Dr. Kolski, who urged him to hang on. Dr. Kolski promised Ben he'd be among the first treated with the innovative new Edwards Lifesciences EVOQUE transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement system, which thanks to donor support, would soon be available at Providence St. Joseph Hospital. True to his word, Dr. Kolski, alongside Dr. Tyler and in collaboration with Dr. Le, performed one of Orange County's first EVOQUE procedures on Ben, offering hope where none existed. Today, Ben is back to living a full and active life. The McCulloch family's vision for the gift is to expand access, research and innovation in cardiac care so that more patients have options when they need them most. The David A. Margileth, M.D. Endowed Chair in Breast Cancer The David A. Margileth, M.D. Endowed Chair in Breast Cancer was funded by an anonymous donor a two-time breast cancer survivor and longtime volunteer at the hospital, who wished to honor her retired physician, medical oncologist Dr. David Margileth. The inaugural chair holder is Hang T. Dang, D.O., director of the Breast Oncology Program and a highly regarded breast surgical oncologist. Dr. Dang will use the funds to continue advancing comprehensive breast cancer care and improve patient outcomes. The donor hopes this gift will inspire others to give back in meaningful and enduring ways. "Behind every great hospital are people who believe deeply in its mission," said Brian Helleland, chief executive, Providence St. Joseph Hospital and Orange County/High Desert service area. "The generosity of these donors honors the physicians who changed their lives and creates a ripple effect that will touch thousands more. Because of these donors and others like them, we can continue to push the boundaries of what's possible." About Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation connects the philanthropic generosity of individuals and organizations with the visionary initiatives of Providence St. Joseph Hospital to achieve transformative health care. Philanthropic support enables Providence St. Joseph Hospital to keep pace with the evolving health care industry. Donations made through the Foundation support comprehensive programs, acquire leading-edge technologies and advance clinical excellence to ensure high-quality patient care. About Providence St. Joseph Hospital Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Orange, California is a nationally recognized, 483-bed, not-for-profit Catholic hospital founded in 1929 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange. Fully accredited by The Joint Commission and designated as a Magnet hospital for nursing excellence, St. Joseph Hospital's reputation for clinical excellence and compassionate, family-centered care draws patients from all over the United States. St. Joseph Hospital is part of Providence, a health system serving in 52 hospitals with a comprehensive range of services across Alaska, California, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Washington. For more information visit: providence.org/stjoseph. SOURCE Providence St. Joseph Hospital Foundation Organized under the supervision of the Punjab Referendum Commission (PRC), (www.PunjabReferendumCommission.org) the August 17 vote follows Khalistan Referendum polling across the UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe since its launch in London on October 31, 2021. Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), the organizers of the Referendum, say the Ardas is a way to honor President Trump's leadership, America's First Amendment freedoms, and U.S. protection of political expression especially in contrast to the Modi government in India, which has banned the Khalistan Referendum and branded its advocates as "terrorists." "We are performing Ardas for President Trump because under his leadership, America stands for free speech and self-determination," said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ's General Counsel. "While Modi's India sends hit squads abroad to assassinate Pro Khalistan Sikhs, America under Trump remains a beacon for political freedom," added Pannun. SFJ is already campaigning for August 17 Khalistan Referendum and Sikh Prayer for MAGA with billboards on the main highway near Mar-a-Lago The Khalistan Referendum initiative also highlights the continuous Genocide of Sikhs and Econocide of Punjab under successive Indian regimes from Gandhi to Modi's BJP, including the 1984 Sikh Genocide, the extrajudicial killings of over 150,000 Sikhs, and the ongoing agrarian crisis that has driven more than 110,000 farmers to suicide. EVENT DETAILS: Khalistan Referendum and Sikh Prayer Sunday, August 17, 2025 National Mall, Washington, D.C. Issued by: Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Attorney at Law (NY) General Counsel to SFJ 917-789-2914 [email protected]; SOURCE Sikhs for Justice The 2025 campaign executes a series of media, trade, and consumer events to support the category's sustained growth in the US NEW YORK, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wines of Georgia , the organization that represents and promotes the wines of the country of Georgia and is financed by the National Wine Agency of Georgia , which is a legal entity under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia and the country's wineries, is pleased to announce the next phase of its 2025 integrated communications campaign, "Georgia, Naturally," with events programming for media, trade, and consumers amid continued category growth in the U.S. market. According to the National Wine Agency of Georgia, Georgian wine exports to the U.S. increased by 27% in volume and 32% in value in 2024, driven by growing consumer interest in the country's indigenous grapes, ancient winemaking traditions, and distinctive styles. This momentum has driven the 2025 campaign, with Wines of Georgia engaging thousands of U.S. wine professionals and enthusiasts through strategic press, trade, and consumer activations, from high-profile tasting events to immersive educational programs. "This year we've had incredible opportunities to connect with new audiences and deepen the conversation about Georgian wine," says Tamta Kvelaidze, Head of Marketing & PR at the National Wine Agency of Georgia. "From engaging with top culinary leaders to hosting immersive press and trade tastings, our goal remains the same: to share Georgia's story, its indigenous grapes, and its exceptional wines with as many people as possible across the U.S." Kicking off the second half of the campaign year, Wines of Georgia will serve as one of the largest regional sponsors at TEXSOM on August 24-26, hosting a lunch and presenting a wide variety of wine styles and producers at each of the six sessions during the conference's grand tasting. After TEXSOM, the much-anticipated third annual Grand Tasting and Masterclass will take place in Los Angeles on September 23. Designed for press, trade, and consumers to discover the unique world of Georgian wine and food, the event will present over 100 different wines from a wide range of producers, showcasing the full spectrum of styles, including reds, whites, ambers, roses, and sparkling, in order to connect attendees with the country's diverse terroirs and winemaking traditions. An immersive day of education and activities, the event will feature a four-hour walk-around tasting, an interactive masterclass, and a two-hour consumer session hosted by Phil Rosenthal of "Somebody Feed Phil." During the consumer portion, Rosenthal will share his Georgian wine and food experience with a preview of the series' hit Season 8 episode "Tbilisi", one of the highest-rated of the new season, which premiered on Netflix on June 18, 2025 and showcased Georgia's singular culinary culture, winemaking traditions, and vibrant hospitality. Los Angeles-based press and trade can register for the Grand Tasting and Masterclass here . Tickets for the consumer evening tasting event and celebrity Q&A with Phil Rosenthal are $49.99 and can be purchased here . U.S. importers are invited to participate in the Grand Tasting and Masterclass at no cost to spotlight their Georgian wine portfolios directly to trade, media, and consumers through the event's diverse programming. This is a rare opportunity for importers to showcase Georgian wines, share their brands' stories, and build lasting connections with a core target audience of wine professionals and enthusiasts. Interested importers may submit their wines here or reach out to [email protected] for more information or any questions. In addition to the Grand Tasting, the campaign will engage consumers nationwide through a robust fall schedule of events, including: Karakterre Festival ( Brooklyn, NY , October 25 ): In its 16th edition, Karakterre will activate again in New York , bringing together some of the leading winegrowers of Central and Eastern Europe at a new venue: Domino Square in Williamsburg, Brooklyn . Set against the Manhattan skyline, this open-air festival will showcase organic, biodynamic, and natural wines, as well as the farming practices of Central and Eastern Europe . Wines of Georgia will have a large presence in the grand tasting and a Georgian wine masterclass. In its 16th edition, will activate again in , bringing together some of the leading winegrowers of Central and at a new venue: Domino Square in Williamsburg, . Set against the skyline, this open-air festival will showcase organic, biodynamic, and natural wines, as well as the farming practices of Central and . Wines of will have a large presence in the grand tasting and a Georgian wine masterclass. Orange Glou Fair ( New York , October 26 ): Now in its fourth year, the Orange Glou Fair will feature an incredible lineup of over 200 top orange wines from around the world, joined by some of the best winemakers. Wines of Georgia will participate in the grand tasting and participate in an Amber Wine Panel spotlighting Georgia's pioneering role in amber wine production. Founded by sommelier Doreen Winkler in 2019, the event draws in over 500 consumers, with food from top NYC restaurants. Now in its fourth year, the will feature an incredible lineup of over 200 top orange wines from around the world, joined by some of the best winemakers. Wines of will participate in the grand tasting and participate in an Amber Wine Panel spotlighting pioneering role in amber wine production. Founded by sommelier in 2019, the event draws in over 500 consumers, with food from top NYC restaurants. Austin Food & Wine Festival ( Texas , November 7-9 ): Following the Orange Glou Fair, the campaign will travel to Texas for the Austin Food & Wine Festival with participation in the walkaround tasting and a guided tasting seminar. Held annually, the festival attracts over 5,000 attendees, including consumers, wine buyers, celebrity chefs, and media professionals. The leading festival showcases top chefs, sommeliers, and winemakers alongside Austin's renowned gourmet scene. Following the Orange Glou Fair, the campaign will travel to for the with participation in the walkaround tasting and a guided tasting seminar. Held annually, the festival attracts over 5,000 attendees, including consumers, wine buyers, celebrity chefs, and media professionals. The leading festival showcases top chefs, sommeliers, and winemakers alongside renowned gourmet scene. San Diego Food + Wine Festival ( California , November 7-9 ): Wines of Georgia will join the annual San Diego Food + Wine Festival , participating in the Grand Decant, Grand Tasting, and Grand Tasting VIP events, as well as hosting an educational masterclass. Taking place at the San Diego Embarcadero Marina, the festival sees over 10,000 attendees, including consumers, sommeliers, wine buyers, celebrity chefs, and top media. These activations follow a strong first half of 2025 where Wines of Georgia participated in a number of leading wine industry and consumer events, including: the Smithsonian Associates Digital Wine Education Series where the campaign hosted a Georgian wine seminar, a major presence at both the James Beard Foundation Awards in Chicago and Food & Wine Classic in Aspen in June, and the TEXSOM Awards in Texas in February, where the Georgian wine category earned 29 medals, including a Judges' Selection (Best of Show). For more information and to follow along for new announcements from the Wines of Georgia on upcoming events and educational opportunities, please visit the Wines of Georgia website and follow on social media on Instagram , X , and Facebook . About Wines of Georgia - http://www.winesgeorgia.com Wines of Georgia is a promotional campaign financed by the National Wine Agency of Georgia and wineries to educate the US wine trade and general public about the history, culture, quality, and universal appeal of Georgian wines and the country's qvevri winemaking tradition. Press Contact: Leah Isenberg Colangelo & Partners [email protected] SOURCE Wines of Georgia Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR Thongsavanh Phomvihane, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) KUNMING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday met with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR Thongsavanh Phomvihane in Anning, Yunnan Province. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China is willing to work with Laos to implement the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and two countries, strengthen strategic communication, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation to continuously inject new vitality into their traditional friendship. Wang said China is ready to share the benefits of its super-sized market with Laos, encourage more Chinese enterprises to invest in Laos, safeguard the security and stability of industrial and supply chains, and work with Laos to resist economic coercion and bullying. China welcomes Laos' joining the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) family and looks forward to Laos contributing to the development of the SCO, Wang added. Thongsavanh, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, said the Lao Party and government attach great importance to developing relations with China and hope to promote the construction of a Laos-China community with a shared future to go deeper and achieve more solid progress. Thongsavanh thanked China for supporting Laos in becoming a dialogue partner of the SCO. Laos is willing to maintain close communication and coordination with China to jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, he added. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR Thongsavanh Phomvihane, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) 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 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Peng Yikai) KUNMING, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday met with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son in Anning, Yunnan Province. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China and Vietnam have stood together to provide mutual assistance, forging a profound bond as "comrades and brothers," adding that they have embarked on a path of socialist modernization suited to their respective national conditions. He said that amid changes unseen in a century, China stands ready to work with Vietnam to build a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance. Noting that China and Vietnam enjoy close economic and trade ties, Wang said that they should work together to oppose unilateralism and protectionism, uphold free trade rules, and safeguard the international trade system. China supports Vietnam in building an independent economic system, and encourages Chinese enterprises to invest and do business in Vietnam, Wang said. China also stands ready to work with Vietnam to expand cooperation in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy and commercial aircraft. Wang said that China will facilitate the entry of Vietnamese agricultural products into China, as well as the establishment of Vietnamese trade promotion agencies in China, and hopes Vietnam will provide a favorable business environment for Chinese enterprises. Son, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, said Vietnam stands ready to work with China to well plan high-level exchanges for the second half of the year, and enhance cooperation on trade and investment, railway connectivity, law enforcement security and sci-tech innovation, with a view to achieving more substantive outcomes. Vietnam looks forward to maintaining strategic communication with China, enhancing solidarity and cooperation, supporting each other on multilateral platforms, and jointly safeguarding regional peace and stability, Son said. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, who is in China for the tenth Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting, in Anning, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Aug. 14, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei) United Nations, Aug 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate in the high-level United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session and address it on September 26, according to the preliminary programme. This will be a milestone meeting for the UN, which turns 80 this year and the General Assembly's theme is "Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights". A high-level meeting will be held on September 22 to commemorate the 80th anniversary. The next day, the regular high-level sessions will start with the first address, as per tradition, by Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. He will be followed by US President Donald Trump. Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia and Xi Jinping of China will not be attending the high-level session. Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, and Masoud Pezeshkian of Iran are on the list of speakers. In the September 26 morning session that starts at 9 a.m. (6:30 p.m. in India), PM Modi will be preceded by Prime Ministers Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, Li Qiang of China, and Keir Starmer of Britain. Prime Ministers Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, K.P. Sharma Oli of Nepal, and Tshering Tobgay of Bhutan are pencilled in later that session. Bangladesh's "prime minister" is listed as the morning session's last speaker, and it will likely be Muhammad Yunus, who styles himself as the Chief Advisor to the caretaker government set up after the overthrow of the democratically elected Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. PM Modi's address this year will be his seventh to the General Assembly's high-level session. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in) New Delhi, Aug 14 : President Droupadi Murmu will address the nation on Thursday evening, marking the eve of the 79th Independence Day. The address is scheduled to be broadcast at 7 p.m. across the entire national network of Akashvani and telecast on all Doordarshan channels -- first in Hindi, followed by the English version. Doordarshanas regional channels will then air regional language broadcasts, while Akashvani will carry the regional versions at 9.30 p.m. on its respective networks, a government statement said. On Friday morning, August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver his traditional Independence Day address from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort. India observes Independence Day every year on August 15 to commemorate its freedom from over two centuries of British colonial rule in 1947. The occasion is marked by flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes, and tributes to the nation's freedom fighters. While the government has announced an official theme for the celebrations in previous years, often focusing on unity, patriotism, social development, and sacrifice, no theme has been declared so far this year. In the lead-up to the celebrations, several iconic locations across the capital have come alive with live performances by the Armed Forces bands, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) bands, Railway Protection Force (RPF) bands, and National Cadet Corps (NCC) ensembles. These events are aimed at fostering patriotic fervour and providing citizens with an opportunity to enjoy inspiring music and displays of discipline and coordination. Security measures have been tightened in Delhi ahead of the celebrations, with traffic restrictions imposed in key areas including India Gate, Mandi House, and Mathura Road. Authorities have advised that vehicles without parking labels avoid these routes to prevent congestion. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has also made special arrangements for August 15, announcing that train services will start at 4 a.m. on all lines to facilitate the movement of guests, invitees, and the public attending the Red Fort ceremony. From 4 a.m. to 6 a.m., trains will run every 30 minutes, after which normal schedules will resume, DMRC said. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Nairobi, Aug 14 : A two-day meeting began in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, with discussions underway to enhance youth participation in peace and security initiatives in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region. Addressing the IGAD Youth Peace and Security Conference on Wednesday, Workneh Gebeyehu, executive secretary of the East African bloc, said the region is home to one of the youngest populations in the world, with youth under the age of 30 making up more than 60 per cent of the overall population. "While youth are a powerful force for ensuring peace and security in the region, they continue to face complex and interlinked crises that undermine their potential," Gebeyehu said. He noted that IGAD member states can enhance youth participation in peace and security by implementing policy reforms and providing institutional support to mainstream the role of young people in building community resilience, reports Xinhua news agency. Abebe Muluneh, director of IGAD Peace and Security Division, urged the region to adopt strategies and policies at the national level that are aligned with the United Nations Security Council Resolution on youth participation in the maintenance of international peace and security. Muluneh noted that youth leaders can be trained in mediation and conflict management to become agents of violence prevention. Fatuma Adan, IGAD head of mission to Kenya, observed that the exclusion of youth from formal peace processes, civic dialogue, and governance structures not only threatens democratic progress but also creates fertile ground for radicalisation, violence, and migration. Adan added that amplification of the voices of youth affected by conflict and displacement, especially in countries such as Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia, will contribute to peace-building efforts in the region. Chennai, Aug 14 : In a late-night operation, police detained hundreds of Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) conservancy workers who had been staging a sit-in protest for 13 days, demanding the withdrawal of privatisation plans in two city zones. Around 400 police personnel were deployed at about 11.30 p.m. on Wednesday to clear the demonstration site outside the Ripon Buildings. Nearly 600 protesters, including sanitation workers, advocates, and members of Communist parties, were removed from the pavement and taken in 15 buses to private marriage halls near Kannappar Thidal. Several protesters fled as the operation commenced. The workers, opposing privatisation in Royapuram (Zone V) and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar (Zone VI) and seeking job permanency, had earlier vowed to continue their agitation until Chief Minister M.K. Stalin intervened. The workers remained firm on their resolve despite a Madras High Court order on Wednesday restricting protests to designated locations. Earlier on Wednesday, the Uzhaippor Urimai Iyakkam (UUI), the union of the protesting sanitation workers, sent a letter to the Chief Minister, urging immediate intervention. The letter demanded the reinstatement of dismissed workers, payment of pending wages, regularisation of staff employed under the National Urban Livelihood Mission, and the implementation of promises made in 2021. It also sought permanent employment for 1,200 workers by September 30, statutory benefits, improved safety measures, and written assurances on job security, along with the rollback of contract labour arrangements. Meanwhile, Sudhamani, a conservancy worker from Royapuram Zone, alleged that after 3 p.m., the Ripon Buildings premises were closed, forcing women workers to walk to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium to use public toilets. "We will not leave until our jobs are made permanent and privatisation is scrapped," she said. Chennai Corporation Mayor R. Priya appealed to the workers to join the private contractor and resume conservancy duties. She noted that both the GCC and the workers had approached the High Court. "Based on the High Court's direction, the protesting workers in front of the Ripon Buildings have been asked to disperse and join the private firm engaged for conservancy work in Royapuram and Thiru Vi Ka Nagar zones," she said. The mass detention marks a sharp escalation in the standoff, which has attracted political attention and public concern over uncollected garbage piling up in affected areas. Shimla, Aug 14 : Braving darkness, fast currents and unstable terrain, the Indian Army on Thursday said its swift response averted a potential tragedy when a sudden flash flood struck Hojis Lungpa Nala in Himachal Pradesh's mountainous Kinnaur district. The incident happened at around 7 p.m. on Wednesday. Triggered by a cloudburst in the higher reaches of the Rishi Dogri Valley, the deluge engulfed the bridge across the Sutlej River and injured one individual. The site was an active road construction zone under the CPWD towards Gangthang Bralam, it said. On receiving an urgent request from the Superintendent of Police, the Army immediately mobilised a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) column. Braving fast currents, the team reached the location and discovered four civilians stranded on the far bank. Working with precision under challenging conditions, the HADR team illuminated the general area to aid night rescue operations. They also guided the stranded civilians to higher and safer ground and evacuated the injured individual to the Regional Hospital in Reckong Peo, the district headquarters. The Indian Army deployed its new generation equipment to assist in the operation, which included the logistics drone high altitude (LDHA) system to ferry essential items, including eatables, coconut water, across the floodwaters to help sustain the stranded individuals through the night. The rescued civilians are under continuous monitoring in an Army camp in Pooh. Plans are in place to bring the stranded individuals back to the home bank once water levels subside, said the Indian Army in a statement. "This operation stands as a testament to the Army's readiness, innovation and commitment to safeguarding lives, even in the most hostile environment and extreme weather conditions," it added. Elsewhere, a few houses and vehicles were washed away in flash floods triggered by cloudbursts in Bhimdwari in Anni subdivision of Kullu district on Wednesday evening. However, no loss of human life has been reported so far. All educational institutions in the Banjar subdivision of Kullu district will remain closed on Thursday as a preventive step. A cloudburst in the hills of Gondhla in the Lahaul-Spiti district also led to floodwater entering Triling village. However, there was no report of loss of life or property, but the National Highway 3 was closed to traffic. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Seoul, Aug 14 : South Korea's jailed former first lady Kim Keon Hee appeared at a special counsel's office on Thursday to undergo questioning for the first time since her arrest earlier this week over corruption charges. Kim was brought to special counsel Min Joong-ki's office in central Seoul in a prison van after departing Seoul Southern Detention Centre in handcuffs, according to correctional authorities. She was hidden from public view as the van used the underground parking route. The wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol was placed in custody at the detention center in southwestern Seoul on Wednesday after a court issued a warrant to arrest her on charges of involvement in a stock manipulation scheme, meddling in candidate nominations for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and 2024 general elections, and receiving luxury gifts from the Unification Church through a shaman in exchange for business favours, Yonhap news agency reported. On Thursday, the special prosecutors reportedly plan to grill Kim about the election meddling case, which centres on allegations the former presidential couple received free opinion polls from self-proclaimed power broker Myung Tae-kyun ahead of the 2022 presidential election in exchange for securing the nomination of former People Power Party Rep. Kim Young-sun for a parliamentary by-election later that year. 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. 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. Aden : , Aug 14 (IANS) Yemeni authorities have announced a crackdown on smuggling networks moving African migrants through the country, after more than 90 Ethiopian migrants died when a boat capsized off southern Abyan province earlier this month. Abyan police said in a statement on Wednesday that they would take "strict measures against anyone proven to be involved in transporting or smuggling refugees and illegal immigrants of African nationality." Under the new measures, security forces will seize vehicles, boats, and other means of transport used in smuggling operations. Authorities also urged the public to cooperate with security services by reporting suspected smugglers or gatherings of undocumented migrants. The boat tragedy off Abyan's coast left 92 people confirmed dead, with others still missing, reports Xinhua news agency. Abdul Qader Bajamil, director of the health office in Abyan, confirmed that the death toll reached 92. "These were all migrants who drowned while trying to enter the country illegally by sea." He said the bodies were recovered from multiple coastal areas in Abyan. "We are still searching for more victims who might have been washed away or are trapped underwater," he added. The International Organization for Migration has warned that such incidents are likely to continue as vulnerable migrants risk dangerous journeys along the Eastern Route, which runs from the Horn of Africa to Yemen and on to Gulf states. Despite its own humanitarian crisis driven by years of conflict, Yemen remains a key transit point for migrants seeking work in the Gulf. Chennai, Aug 14 : The Tamil Nadu Green Energy Corporation Limited (TNGECL) has called for bids to develop public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at nine locations within Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) limits under the Build, Own and Operate (BOO) model. According to the proposal, the project will follow a public-private partnership format, with the selected charge point operator handling design, engineering, supply, installation, commissioning, and the long-term operation and maintenance of the facilities. Each location must have at least three chargers -- one dedicated to light EVs such as two- and three-wheelers, and two 22kW AC chargers for four-wheelers -- in line with Ministry of Power guidelines. Operators can install up to five chargers per site. The proposed charging points will be set up in parking spaces at Ashtalakshmi Temple, Besant Nagar Beach, Mangal Lake Park (Ambattur), Corporation Playground (T. Nagar), Somasundaram Ground (T. Nagar), Semmozhi Poonga (Cathedral Road), Marina Beach, Bougainvillea Park (Anna Nagar), and Nageswar Rao Park (Mylapore). GCC will provide the land, and the winning bidder will pay TNGECL a fixed amount for every unit of electricity sold, with the highest quoted rate securing the contract for a 10-year term. However, the tender comes amid industry concerns over recent electricity tariff hikes, which operators say have made high-capacity public charging stations financially unviable at current utilisation levels. In its latest tariff order, the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) increased fixed monthly charges for EV charging stations in the LTVII category (50112 kW) from Rs 79/kW to Rs 165/kW. For stations above 112 kW under the HTV category, monthly demand charges have been raised from Rs 145/kVA to Rs 304/kVA. Operators note that Tamil Nadu now has the highest fixed charges in the country for EV charging stations. "In Kerala, Delhi, and Maharashtra, fixed charges are zero, while Karnataka and other states have much lower rates," one operator said. They also point out that TN charges Rs 9.75 per unit for LT connections compared to Rs 4.50 in Delhi, and Rs 4 per unit for HT connections. Industry stakeholders are urging the state to reduce tariffs and scrap fixed charges, arguing that such measures are essential to encourage investment in public EV infrastructure and accelerate adoption in the state. Jerusalem, Aug 14 : Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir toured army outposts in southern Lebanon, saying the armed forces had adopted "a new strategic concept" aimed at preempting emerging threats. Video released by the military showed Zamir scanning the area through binoculars, speaking with commanders, and inspecting frontline positions. "We are on the offensive, constantly thwarting threats. We identify and eliminate threats in all arenas," he said. Zamir said that earlier on Wednesday, he had approved plans to "conquer Gaza" before travelling north, while the army continued operations in Syria, Yemen, and the occupied West Bank, and monitored developments in Iran. "We are in a multi-front war, adapting our concepts to the threats. We are active in all arenas -- initiating attacks entirely on our own initiative," he said. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered in November 2024 after 14 months of fighting, has not stopped Israeli strikes, reports Xinhua news agency. Zamir said the military had killed more than 240 militants and carried out about 600 strikes since the truce began. Hezbollah has largely refrained from large-scale attacks during the ceasefire but has mounted limited strikes, which it said were in response to repeated Israeli violations of the truce. Recently, Israel's Defence Ministry signed a 260-million-US-dollar contract with Israeli defence electronics firm Elbit Systems to supply advanced airborne munitions to the Israeli army. The deal includes an upgraded version of the Rampage, a long-range, supersonic, air-to-ground precision missile, capable of striking targets like air force bases, munitions depots, bunkers, and communication facilities, according to Israeli news website Ynet and business newspaper Calcalist. The missile features satellite navigation and "fire-and-forget" guidance, among others. Manufacturing will take place at Elbit's facilities in Israel, which have operated at surge capacity since the outbreak of the multi-front conflict in October 2023 to meet wartime demand, said the Defence Ministry. This procurement is part of Israel's strategy to bolster domestic defence production amid export restrictions imposed by several countries during the multi-front conflict, most recently by Germany. Seoul, Aug 14 : The South Korean government will launch a consultative body of relevant ministries to support the shipbuilding cooperation initiative with the United States, the industry minister said on Thursday, noting the project will create new opportunities for the Korean shipbuilding industry. Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan unveiled the plan during the naming ceremony of two liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers to be delivered to the U.S. by Korean shipbuilding giant Hanwha Ocean Co., held at the company's shipyard in Geoje, about 330 kilometers southeast of Seoul, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. "The government will swiftly form a consultative body comprising relevant agencies to support the Make American Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA) project, while closely communicating with the U.S. side to create tangible results," he said, reports Yonhap news agency. MASGA refers to South Korea's proposal for bilateral shipbuilding cooperation with the U.S. made during its tariff negotiations with the Donald Trump administration. Late last month, the Seoul government struck a trade deal with the Trump administration by pledging to invest US$150 billion in the MASGA project and another $200 billion for bilateral cooperation in strategic industries, such as semiconductors, batteries and biotech. "MASGA is a win-win project that supports the revitalization of the U.S. shipbuilding industry by facilitating investment in American shipyards, while helping them nurture a skilled workforce and rebuild supply chains," Kim added, according to the industry ministry. "The project will also create new opportunities for our companies to enter new markets." The ministry said Hanwha Ocean's recently constructed LNG carriers are the first two out of five vessels to be delivered to the U.S. for the latter's LNG exports. Hanwha won the order, worth $1.2 billion, in 2022. The deal reaffirms the top-tier competitiveness of Korean shipbuilders in the high-value LNG carrier market, the ministry said, noting that more than 70 percent of 760 LNG carriers currently operating worldwide have been built by Korean shipbuilders. Notably, in the first half of this year, Korean companies secured 100 percent of global LNG carrier orders, the ministry highlighted. Following the naming ceremony, the industry minister also met with Hanwha Ocean officials and the crew members of U.S. Navy vessel Charles Drew at the Geoje shipyard. Hanwha Ocean is currently providing maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for Charles Drew, which is the third U.S. naval vessel to undergo MRO at the Hanwha shipyard. "The U.S. naval vessel MRO project represents the starting point of Korea-U.S. shipbuilding cooperation, and just like the previous two MRO projects, we hope Charles Drew will be reborn as a new ship through the advanced capabilities of Korean shipbuilding," Kim said. In August last year, Hanwha secured an MRO contract for the U.S. Navy's logistics support ship Wally Schirra, marking the first such deal for a Korean shipbuilder. In November, it also won an MRO deal for the replenishment oiler Yukon. Meanwhile, during his visit to Geoje shipyard, Kim said the government plans to announce measures to support the restructuring efforts of the ailing petrochemical industry later this month, adding the petrochemical industry can overcome the crisis like the shipbuilding sector did in the late 2010s. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Americans are losing faith in higher education. Nearly half of adults believe a college degree is less important to get a well-paying job than it was 20 years ago, and only a quarter believe a four-year degree is a very important part of getting a job that pays well. The question of value is front and center for policymakers across the country and in Washington. For too long, postsecondary education programs have been focused on too many aspects not related to student success. We've encouraged enrollment without as much concern for whether students are completing or getting the most value out of the program. That's no longer good enough. Students deserve programs that lead to meaningful, high-wage employment, and taxpayers deserve accountability for the billions they invest each year. Governors and policymakers must prioritize rethinking postsecondary resources to answer an important question: Is our system creating real value for students? Fortunately, a growing number of states are embracing student-centered reforms that align educational opportunities with economic mobility. Their efforts are pointing the way toward a smarter, more transparent model of postsecondary education that prioritizes outcomes over inputs. For example, Arkansas conducted a comprehensive return-on-investment analysis of every associate and bachelor's degree program in the state, assessing whether they help students earn more than they would with only a high school diploma. It's a simple benchmark that will be at the heart of every state's postsecondary strategy under the recently passed federal budget reconciliation bill, which will require states to measure graduates' median income four years after program completion and may result in decreased federal funding if earnings fall below a certain level. Now is the perfect time for states to innovate and customize even further using state funds to incentivize change. Florida has taken that one step further with its "money-back guarantee" for workforce education programs. If a graduate can't get a job within six months, the college refunds their tuition. That approach gives students peace of mind and creates a powerful incentive for institutions to focus on offering programs that have value and are continually updated to reflect an alignment with the skills and expectations of employers. For example, technology moves at a much faster pace than schools, so this requirement gives an incentive for schools to keep a pulse on what's shifted from "new" to "required to be successful" in a field. A promising development is happening in Texas, where a new funding formula for community colleges links all state funding to a student's completion of a degree or certificate, with significantly higher bonuses for success in high-demand fields and with higher-need students. This ensures taxpayer investment is aligned with whether students finish and find meaningful employment instead of just the number of students enrolled in the program. Some states are leveraging other strategies to support completion. Tennessee's "Tennessee Promise" provides last-dollar scholarships and intensive mentoring to help more students complete associate degrees or technical certificates without debt. Colorado recently issued a bold executive order to reimagine the future of postsecondary talent development. It codifies years of stakeholder engagement and data analysis to translate recommendations into actions. Utah has developed stackable credential programs that allow learners to build toward a degree over time while working, helping them earn and learn without starting over. As states seek to create more opportunities for students to capitalize on education, it's important to make sure these programs are accomplishing what they set out to perform. Right now, many states don't know if they have underenrolled or lower-performing programs. Analyzing the existing landscape is the first step in preventing those programs from becoming the norm. In Indiana, colleges and universities, following legislative action earlier in the year, recently announced they will merge or sunset more than 400 underenrolled programs they say offer limited payoff in the labor market. This kind of data-informed decision-making sends the message that public colleges should focus their resources on offerings that give students a real shot at success after graduation. At the heart of all these reforms is a shared understanding that postsecondary education should be a launchpad, not a dead end. Degrees and credentials should equip students with the tools they need to thrive in a dynamic economy. That means making tough choices about which programs to support, giving students the information they need to choose wisely while rewarding institutions where students achieve actual post-graduation success in employment, enlistment or enrollment. Affordability remains a top concern as families plan for the future. But reducing costs without increasing value is a hollow victory. States must make education more affordable and ensure that students are enrolled in programs that prepare them for tomorrow's job market. Policymakers in Washington are focusing on these issues, but state lawmakers can also take action. They have the tools, and many are already leading the way. By focusing on affordability, transparency and measurable outcomes, state leaders can reshape higher education into a system that works better for students, families and taxpayers alike. The way we've historically approached higher education isn't getting enough Americans where they need to be, so let's build state postsecondary systems that deliver real value and help every student access an education that pays off. Jeb Bush was governor of Florida from 1999 to 2007. He is the founder and chair of ExcelinEd and ExcelinEd in Action. Previously: Charter schools are helping the students they are designed to help (COMMENT, BELOW) JUBA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan has introduced the second dose of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) into the routine immunization schedule as part of a broader effort to strengthen children's immunity and prevent measles outbreaks, Minister of Health Sarah Cleto Rial said Thursday. Juba is determined to join the rest of the world in eliminating measles, the minister said, noting that adding MCV2 significantly enhances measles immunity among children in South Sudan. "To ensure high immunization coverage and sustained efforts toward the global goal of measles elimination by 2030, routine immunization services will be delivered through fixed-post, outreach, and mobile strategies," Rial said in a joint statement issued in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. The two-dose regimen is part of the 2017 recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO) to all countries, and South Sudan is now the 45th country in the African region to introduce MCV2. The Ministry of Health, backed by the Gavi vaccine alliance, the WHO and UNICEF, is jointly driving efforts to tackle longstanding immunization gaps in South Sudan, the statement said. With this introduction, South Sudan's Expanded Program on Immunization will now vaccinate children against measles at nine and 18 months to boost their immunity levels. "An estimated target population of 567,065 children will be eligible for the second dose of MCV in 80 counties across the country," the joint statement said. Humphrey Karamagi, WHO representative for South Sudan, said the introduction of MCV2 into the country's routine immunization represents a milestone in strengthening child health and vaccine-preventable disease control. "Sustaining progress will depend on continued community outreach, health worker training, and effective data recording," Karamagi said, adding that the WHO "will stand by South Sudan throughout this journey." Measles remains one of the most contagious and deadly vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly affecting children under five, according to the WHO. According to the WHO's 2025 Measles Risk Assessment, nearly 90 percent of counties in South Sudan are classified as high or very high risk for measles outbreaks, due to low routine immunization coverage, weak surveillance systems, and the previous absence of a second dose of the measles vaccine in the national routine immunization schedule, and other factors. Noala Skinner, UNICEF representative in South Sudan, called for full protection against measles, especially among malnourished children and those displaced by conflict and floods, stressing that one dose of MCV does not provide full protection. In April, South Sudan conducted a nationwide measles follow-up campaign targeting children aged six to 59 months, reaching 73 out of 80 counties and achieving 85 percent coverage of the national target population. However, only 38 percent of counties reached the critical 95 percent coverage threshold required to interrupt measles transmission, the WHO said. It stressed that these results highlight persistent immunity gaps and the urgent need for MCV2 to ensure full protection. Seoul, Aug 14 : North Korea on Thursday denounced the United States for its recent back-to-back military exercises in the West Pacific, conducted jointly with other countries, including Australia and Japan, calling them "highly provocative." "If the US and its followers obsessively pursue military actions that undermine peace and security in the Asia Pacific region, they will inevitably provoke protest and retaliation from countries in the region," reports Yonhap, quoting the state-run Korean Central News Agency's (KCNA's) article. The KCNA took issue with two recent US-led multinational military exercises: Talisman Sabre, conducted last month in northeastern Australia with 18 other nations, and a military exercise in the Philippine Sea of the Western Pacific from August 4-12, involving Japan, the United Kingdom, Australia, Norway and Spain. "Needless to say, they were highly sensational and provocative both in content and in elements," the KCNA noted. The news agency said the Korean Peninsula will also face another "manic" exercise, referring to the annual summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield joint drills between Seoul and Washington, scheduled for August 18-28. "It is too obvious that joint military exercises by the US and its followers will have very negative consequences for the security situation of countries in the region," the KCNA said, warning that the countries' willingness to respond physically should not be overlooked. Earlier on August 12, North Korea had conducted artillery firing drills to bolster its combat readiness posture, the North's state media reported, as South Korea and the United States prepare to kick off their joint military exercise next week. Tactical artillery subunits of the North's military conducted a "firing practice contest" in accordance with a combat drill plan from the General Staff of the Korean People's Army. The North's move came a week before Seoul and Washington are scheduled to launch their annual summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise, set for August 18-28. North Korea had said the firing contest was aimed at "perfecting the capability to fight a war and battle readiness of the entire army." The firing drills "served as an occasion to demonstrate the strong will of the army to thoroughly contain military gangsters in the land adjacent to the border and reliably defend the security," the KCNA said in an English-language statement. The latest exercise was overseen by Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the ruling party's Central Military Commission. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un did not attend. New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 14 : The Supreme Court will on Thursday hear a petition seeking urgent intervention in the case of Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who has been sentenced to death in Yemen. The matter will be taken up by a bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta. Nimisha Priya, a native of Kerala, was convicted by a Yemeni court for the murder of a Yemeni national in 2017. While her execution has been temporarily deferred, activists and humanitarian organisations have been pressing for diplomatic and legal efforts to secure her release or commute her sentence. The Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council, an advocacy group formed to campaign for her release, had approached the Central Government seeking permission for a delegation to travel to Yemen. The aim was to initiate negotiations with the victim's family in accordance with Yemeni law, which allows for a pardon in return for payment of "blood money". However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier rejected the council's request, citing severe security risks in Yemen, where armed conflict and political instability continue to pose a threat to foreign nationals. The ministry had informed the petitioners that it could not grant travel clearance to the war-torn country under the current circumstances. In the hearing, the Centre is expected to apprise the Apex Court of the current legal and diplomatic status of the case. The court will also consider the petitioner's contention that, without direct engagement in Yemen, securing Nimisha Priya's release would be nearly impossible. The Action Council's plea has urged the court to direct the government to make every possible diplomatic effort, including facilitating authorised representatives to negotiate with the victimas family. They argue that time is running out as her death sentence, though stayed for now, could be enforced if a resolution is not reached soon. The case has drawn significant attention from human rights groups, the Indian diaspora, and Kerala's political leadership, who have repeatedly appealed for urgent action. The Supreme Court's proceedings on this matter are expected to set the tone for the next phase of legal and diplomatic engagement. Patna, Aug 14 : In a fresh political flashpoint ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday accused NDA's Dinesh Singh and Veena Devi of holding duplicate Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers and being registered as voters in multiple constituencies. In a post on X, Yadav claimed that JD(U) MLC Dinesh Singh possesses two EPIC IDs -- REM0933267 and UT01134527 -- registered in separate Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies in two different districts. He alleged that Singh also filled two separate counting forms during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process, with signatures on both verified by Election Commission officials. Yadav, earlier, alleged that Singh's wife, Vaishali MP Veena Devi, holds two EPIC IDs -- UTO1134543 and GSB1037894 -- and is registered in two different Lok Sabha and Assembly constituencies. He claimed her age is recorded differently in the two IDs, and that she also submitted two separate forms with distinct signatures during the voter list revision, both verified by EC officials. "This is a fraud committed in collusion between the Election Commission, the BJP and the NDA," Yadav said. "Doesn't this put a question mark on the impartiality of the Election Commission? Has the EC become a tool to make the BJP win? Has it now turned into a 'Troll Commission' or 'Earthworm Commission' that fact-checks only for the ruling party, not common people?" Tejashwi asked. He demanded that the EC issue notices to Veena Devi and Dinesh Singh from both constituencies and take action. Neither Veena Devi nor the Election Commission has issued an official response so far. However, the allegations have sparked a new controversy in Bihar politics, with opposition parties accusing the EC of deliberate irregularities to benefit the NDA in the polls. Political observers warn that if the EC fails to act, the matter could raise broader concerns over the transparency and credibility of the electoral process in Bihar at a critical pre-election moment. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The government was set to launch an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tool on Thursday that will automatically generate structured minutes of meeting (MoM) from Gram Sabha or other Panchayat meetings' audio and video recordings. New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) The government was set to launch an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tool on Thursday that will automatically generate structured minutes of meeting (MoM) from Gram Sabha or other Panchayat meetingsa audio and video recordings. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) was set to launch aSabhaSaara, an AI-powered meeting summarization tool, in the presence of Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Professor SP Singh Baghel in the national capital. According to the ministry, aSabhaSaara uses advanced AI and Natural Language Processing (NLP) technologies to transcribe spoken discussions, identify key decisions and action points, and produce well-formatted meeting minutes. Integrated with aBhashinia, the governmentas National Language Translation Mission, the tool currently supports 13 Indian languages, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for Panchayat functionaries across linguistic backgrounds. The number of languages supported will also gradually be increased in future. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has urged all States/UTs to utilise the aSabhaSaara tool for generating Minutes of Meetings for the Special Gram Sabhas scheduled on August 15, 2025. As a first step, all the 1,194 GPs of Tripura (including traditional local bodies) will use the tool to generate the Minutes for these Special Gram Sabhas. SabhaSaar is an initiative that harnesses digital innovations to further strengthen participatory democracy and enhance efficiency in local governance. By significantly reducing the time and effort required for manual documentation, SabhaSaar enables Panchayat officials to focus on governance and service delivery while ensuring transparency and accountability, according to a ministry statement. Recently, the makers of the superhit streaming show aPanchayata joined forces with the Ministry of Panchayati Raj to portray rural development through their sketches. The partnership aims to bring compelling narratives highlighting key rural development initiatives. The themes include Women Empowerment, Own Source Revenue, and Technology-Driven Growth. a"IANS na/ Kolkata, Aug 14 : Subject to last-minute changes, it is almost final that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in West Bengal on August 22 to attend two programmes, one administrative and one political. The administrative programme will be the inauguration of three new city metro railway routes, namely Noapara to Jai Hind Airport Station, Ruby to Beliaghata, and Esplanade to Sealdah. After the administrative programme, the Prime Minister is scheduled to address a political rally organised by the West Bengal unit of the BJP at Dum Dum in North 24 Parganas district. "Initially, the Dum Dum rally was scheduled on August 20. However, since the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament will continue till August 21, the Prime Minister will be busy in New Delhi till that date. So a fresh proposal was sent from the Bengal unit of the BJP to fix August 22 as the date of the Dum Dum rally. Now, unless there is a last-minute change, the Prime Minister's programmes on August 22 are final," said a state committee member of the party. Already, the West Bengal unit of the BJP has presented a plan to the party's central leadership for five public meetings by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the state during the remaining five months of the calendar year of 2025, which will mean one meeting per month by the Prime Minister during that period. At the same time, the party has plans to organise a mega rally at the Brigade Parade Ground in central Kolkata in January next year, which will also be addressed by the Prime Minister. The state committee insider further said that the locations of the proposed public meeting of the Prime Minister for the remaining months of the current calendar year will be planned in such a manner that major parts of both South Bengal and North Bengal could be covered. As per the plan, the meetings will be planned at locations at junctures of two or more districts. Already, the Prime Minister had addressed two public meetings in West Bengal so far this year, the first being in May at Alipurduar in North Bengal and the second being at the industrial township of Durgapur in West Burdwan district in South Bengal in July. From both meetings, the Prime Minister launched a scathing attack on the West Bengal government, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the ruling Trinamool Congress on various issues like rampant corruption, rise in crime against women in the state, and frequent communal tension and riot-like situations in minority-dominated pockets in the state. Imphal, Aug 14 : In a vibrant celebration of India's 79th Independence Day and the successful culmination of Operation Sindoor, the Assam Rifles organised a spirited Tiranga Bike Rally on Thursday. Imphal, Aug 14 (IANS) In a vibrant celebration of Indiaas 79th Independence Day and the successful culmination of Operation Sindoor, the Assam Rifles organised a spirited Tiranga Bike Rally on Thursday. The rally was ceremonially flagged off from the iconic Marjing Polo Statue at Heingangching in Imphal East by Major General Ravroop Singh, IGAR (South), in the presence of senior Assam Rifles officers, jawans, and enthusiastic local residents. Covering a distance of nearly 30 kilometres, the rally passed through key areas of Imphal East before culminating at the Keithelmanbi Garrison in Imphal West. Bikers carried the Tricolour, symbolising unity, patriotism, and the indomitable spirit of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav'. The event served not only as a tribute to Indiaas hard-earned independence but also as an effort to inspire the youth to participate in nation-building and acknowledge the critical role of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and stability, especially in the Northeast. The Assam Rifles, in a post on X, posted pictures of the event and wrote, "The event aimed to foster the spirit of nationalism and strengthen bonds with the local community. Riding with the National Flag held high, participants traversed the route with great zeal, earning admiration and applause from residents along the way." India attained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947, following a long and determined freedom struggle. It was a historic moment when Jawaharlal Nehru, Indiaas first Prime Minister, hoisted the national flag at the Red Fort and delivered the iconic "Tryst with Destiny" speech. The British ruled India for nearly 150 years, beginning with the establishment of the East India Company in Surat in 1619. Following the Battle of Plassey in 1757, the company gained significant control, laying the foundation for formal colonial rule. This year, India marks the 79th anniversary of its independence, if counted from 1947. Independence Day celebrations across the country honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters and uphold their ideals. From state capitals to village schools, flag hoisting, parades, and cultural events are held to rekindle the spirit of freedom and unity. Chennai, Aug 14 : Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President Vijay has sharply criticised the Tamil Nadu government for what he described as the inhumane and violent arrest of sanitation workers protesting in Chennai. In a strongly worded statement, Vijay accused the ruling DMK of using "fascist" tactics to suppress peaceful demonstrations. He alleged that late-night Wednesday police operations saw male and female workers forcibly dragged away, with several women fainting or sustaining injuries in the process. The violence inflicted on these women, he said, was intolerable for any person with a conscience, and he urged immediate medical attention for the injured along with measures to safeguard their health. Vijay further condemned the manner in which the arrested workers were detained, claiming they were unable to contact their families or receive assistance. Questioning whether their strike made them "anti-national", he said the incident showed that Tamil Nadu was being ruled not in the spirit of democracy but with sheer barbarism. He also reminded the DMK that the workers were demanding the very commitments the party itself had promised when it was in opposition. "Why have you still not fulfilled those promises? If you cannot honour your word, why make such assurances?" he asked. Vijay called for the immediate release of all arrested workers and urged the government to provide an alternative venue where they could continue their protest peacefully. The ongoing agitation began earlier this month when sanitation workers in the Royapuram and Thiru. Vi. Ka. Nagar zones of the Greater Chennai Corporation launched a sit-in outside the Corporation's headquarters. Their main demands include job permanency, better working conditions, and the rollback of plans to privatise conservancy operations in certain zones. The workers charged that privatisation will result in job losses and worsen already precarious working conditions. Several political parties, including the AIADMK, BJP, CPI(M), and Naam Tamilar Katchi, along with film industry personalities, have voiced support for the protest. Despite this backing, the standoff has intensified, with the Madras High Court recently directing authorities to act against protests in unauthorised locations. The government's late-night arrests of the workers have now triggered fresh political criticism, with Vijay's intervention adding to the mounting pressure on the ruling party to resolve the dispute. Chandigarh, Aug 14 : In a major breakthrough, Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force has arrested two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from the Patiala-Ambala national highway near Shambhu village, bordering Haryana, Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said on Thursday. Both have criminal history and over 15 heinous crime cases registered against them in Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan and Gujarat. He said preliminary investigation revealed that they fled to Nepal after committing the murder and returned on the directions of foreign-based handlers to commit a sensational crime in the state. The accused were also wanted in the recent murder of Bharat Ratan in Fazilka. The police recovered one Glock 9mm pistol and six cartridges. A first information report has been registered in Mohali, near here. Meanwhile, to ensure peaceful celebrations of Independence Day, the Punjab Police have beefed up security across the state, and all field units have been directed to remain on high alert. Police teams have been conducting flag marches at the sensitive areas in all 28 police districts simultaneously, followed by cordon and search operations at the vulnerable spots, an official statement quoting Special DGP (Law and Order) Arpit Shukla said. He said the exercise was aimed at boosting the confidence of the public, besides preparing police personnel to tackle any untoward situation. The Special DGP said the special cordon and search operation is being conducted under the supervision of a SP-rank officer at all crowded places, including railway stations, bus stands, markets, shopping malls, public parks, etc., across the state. "We had strictly instructed all the police personnel to deal with every person in a friendly and polite manner while frisking them during the course of this operation," he added. He said around 250 police teams, involving over 1,500 police personnel, were deputed across the state to look for suspicious persons in the state, while ensuring minimum inconvenience to the public. Besides, police teams have continued their cordon and search operation against drugs and conducted raids at 374 locations on Wednesday, leading to the arrest of 73 drug smugglers after registration of 53 first information reports (FIRs) across the state. With this, the total number of drug smugglers arrested has reached 25,719 within 165 days. --IANS vg/dpb Kolkata, Aug 14 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said that over 93 lakh women have benefited from the state government's Kanyashree scheme. Taking to the social media platform X, CM Mamata said her government has spent over Rs 17,000 crore in the last 12 years to help women through this scheme. "Today is Kanyashree Day. The Kanyashree project has completed 12 years today. Many congratulations to all the Kanyashree women across the world, across the country, across Bengal. I don't think there is any other government project that has had such a big impact on women's empowerment in society in such a short time! That's why it is so popular in the world - it won the United Nations Public Service Award, winning first place among 552 projects from 62 countries," Banerjee said. 'Kanyashree Prakalpa' is a targeted conditional cash transfer scheme which is aimed at checking child marriage and retaining girls in schools and other educational institutions. In 2017, Kanyashree Prakalpa, which is a targeted conditional cash transfer scheme, received the United Nations' highest award, the first place for Public Service. "I always think that a society where women are not well off can never be well off. Empowerment of women is necessary for the development of society. It is my pride that today there are more than 93 lakh 'Kanyashree women' in our state. Seventeen and a half thousand crore taka has been handed over to them under this project. We don't just talk about women's empowerment. We do it," she said. The Chief Minister concluded by saying, "I would like to tell all the Kanyashree women to grow up in life and make the face of the country and the state shine. You will one day build a world Bengal. You will wear the crown of respect on your heads in the world." Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 14 : The lone RSP Lok Sabha member, N.K. Premachandran is elated after securing a thumping victory in the fiercely contested elections to the Constitution Club of India (CCI) -- an exclusive body of current and former Members of Parliament -- in what turned out to be a rare moment when political lines blurred in the national capital. Speaking to IANS, Premachandran admitted he had not anticipated the scale of the contest when he decided to enter the fray. "Old timers tell me that there has never been such a keenly contested election to the CCI. This is only the fourth time in history that elections took place, as mostly the winners are elected unanimously. What was surprising was even tall leaders like Sonia Gandhi and even Union Home Minister Amit Shah queued up to vote," said Premachandran. Premachandran, the sole representative from Kerala, won a seat on the club's 11-member executive committee with 444 votes out of 629 polled, emerging as one of the top scorers. The CCI operates under the Lok Sabha Speaker, who serves as its President, and it also includes former lawmakers. "This is the first time a lawmaker from Kerala has won in an election, and hence I am happy as I have got votes from the sitting and former lawmakers from the BJP. Without their support, I would not have secured such a large margin," added Premachandran. The election saw heavy cross-party participation, with MPs from the BJP, Congress, and opposition ranks voting side-by-side -- a rarity in Delhi's political circles. Former Union Minister and BJP MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy retained a key office-bearer position with support from opposition leaders, including Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, even as the BJP leadership mounted a challenge to his 25-year control of the panel. BJP heavyweights Amit Shah, J.P. Nadda, and several Union Ministers joined opposition stalwarts in casting their votes, swelling the turnout to a record 707 -- far higher than the usual 100 in previous years. Despite the BJP's campaign for their candidate Sanjeev Balyan, Rudy's panel, which included Premachandran, prevailed in most positions. Premachandran's win is being seen not only as a personal triumph but also as national recognition of his parliamentary stature. Known for his articulate interventions in the Lok Sabha, he enjoys cordial relations across party lines, often drawing attention from both treasury and opposition benches during debates. The Kollam MP's political career is distinguished by an extraordinary record. He has been elected to every tier of representative democracy in India -- from panchayat to Parliament -- and has served as a State Cabinet Minister, Rajya Sabha member, and now a three-time Lok Sabha MP since 2014. His party, RSP (B), is now an ally of the Congress-led UDF, while in 2006, when he was a cabinet minister in the V.S.Achuthanandan cabinet, his party was in the Left Democratic Front. WINDHOEK, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Namibia has officially declared an end to a cholera outbreak in the Opuwo District of the Kunene Region and a widespread malaria outbreak in the northern part of the country. Minister of Health and Social Services Esperance Luvindao made the announcement Wednesday evening, citing successful containment efforts and a return to pre-outbreak epidemiological patterns. "In June 2025, Namibia declared a cholera outbreak in Opuwo District, Kunene Region, following confirmed cases," she said, adding that a total of 18 suspected cases were reported, with nine confirmed. Luvindao said swift action was taken, led by the Ministry of Health and Social Services, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, the Red Cross and other partners. "Through rapid case detection, prompt treatment, intensified risk communication, community engagement, water and sanitation interventions, and cross-border collaboration, we were able to halt the transmission," she said. The minister said that no new cholera cases have been reported for over 28 days, the required monitoring period before declaring the outbreak over. An outbreak of malaria, which started on Dec. 23, 2024, led to an "unusual spike" in cases, especially in northern Namibia. As of Aug. 1, the outbreak had resulted in 95,412 cases and 154 deaths nationwide. Seoul, Aug 14 : South Korea will consistently pursue the normalisation of ties with North Korea, the unification ministry said on Thursday, responding to Pyongyang's statement rejecting Seoul's conciliatory overtures. "The government will consistently pursue normalisation and stabilisation of ties between South and North Korea in a way that can become mutually beneficial," an official at the unification ministry said. The reaction came just hours after Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, issued the statement, rebuffing the Lee Jae Myung administration's actions to appease North Korea and resume dialogue, calling them a "pipe dream." "We have clarified on several occasions that we have no will to improve relations with (South Korea) ... and this conclusive stand and viewpoint will be fixed in our constitution in the future," Kim Yo-jong said. "It may be necessary for Seoul to take an undaunted, long-term approach in order to turn the strength-to-strength inter-Korean ties of the past three years into ones of goodwill," the ministry official noted. Sincere attitudes and consistent actions from both countries are needed to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula and build peace, the official said. He assessed the timing of Thursday's statement by Kim may have been chosen in consideration of Lee's public address on Friday, marking the 80th anniversary of the Korean Peninsula's liberation from Japan's colonial rule, as well as the upcoming Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise between Seoul and Washington and the August 25 summit between Lee and US President Donald Trump. Kim's statement also reflects North Korea's stance of prioritising relations with the US over Seoul, the official noted, adding that Pyongyang appears to view Washington as a more suitable counterpart for addressing its issues. In the statement, Kim also left open the possibility of resuming dialogue with Washington, saying, "If the US persists with the outdated way of thinking, the meeting between the top leaders (of North Korea and the US) will remain only the 'hope' of the US side." Kim also said North Korea has "never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and is not willing to remove them," refuting Seoul's earlier announcement that Pyongyang had begun dismantling them in response to Seoul's overture, Yonhap news agency reported. During a press briefing, however, Col. Lee Sung-jun, spokesperson for South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, maintained the military's conclusion that North Korea had removed one of its border-area loudspeakers. Bengaluru, Aug 14 : Reacting to the cancellation of bail for actor Darshan, his partner Pavithra Gowda, and five other accused in the sensational fan murder case, the deceased fan Renukaswamy's father, Kashinath S. Shivanagowdru, said that his faith in getting justice for his son's death has grown stronger. Speaking to reporters, Kashinath S. Shivanagowdru, also known as Kashinathaiah, said with tears in his eyes, "My wife informed me about the cancellation of Darshan's bail. This development has strengthened our belief in justice. We have faith in the judiciary and the law. We believe that in the Renukaswamy murder case, our family will get justice." "When the High Court granted bail to Darshan, we were concerned. Later, the decision of the government and authorities to appeal in the Supreme Court, and the subsequent order in this regard, has restored our faith in justice. I thank the government and the efforts of the officers. This is a message to all those who indulge in crime," he stated. Family sources said that while the Supreme Court was pronouncing the judgment, Kashinathaiah sat in the puja room, offering special prayers. Renukaswamy's wife, Sahana, said that all are equal before the law and those who have committed the crime should be punished. "I have faith that this will happen. I do not know what punishment the accused will get, but I have left the matter to God," she said. Renukaswamy's mother, Rathnaprabha, said that everyone has to bow before the verdict of the Supreme Court and that the trial should be conducted swiftly. "With this verdict, our belief in getting justice for my son's murder has strengthened," she said. When asked about Darshan's release on bail and his foreign trips afterward, she said those matters were left to the law and her family could not comment on it. "Whoever has committed a crime should be punished," she stressed. Responding to the development, Minister for Transport Ramalinga Reddy said in Devanahalli, "When the verdict was reserved, the Supreme Court had expressed reservations about the High Court's decision to grant bail, and we got a hint that the bail of the accused would be cancelled in the fan murder case." He added that the Supreme Court had directly stated that the High Court had given a wrong order in the case. When asked about the Supreme Court's criticism of prison authorities, Minister Reddy said, "There are many lapses inside prisons, such as the use of mobile phones and other irregularities. I have been a Home Minister. The prison system will only improve when efficient officers are deputed." In a major development, the Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of Kannada actor Darshan in connection with the fan murder case. The Bench also ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. The court has similarly cancelled the bail of Darshan's girlfriend Pavithra Gowda and five other accused people, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict. A Bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Calling it a landmark judgment, the Bench directed authorities to distribute copies of the verdict to all High Courts and state governments. The court noted that the accused had been given "five-star" treatment in jail and said that the jail superintendent should have been suspended. Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Chennai, Aug 14 : Senior BJP leader and former Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan on Thursday criticised Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin for watching the newly released Rajinikanth-starrer 'Coolie' even as hundreds of sanitation workers were being arrested during their ongoing protest in Chennai demanding better wages and job security. In a statement, Tamilisai expressed disappointment that the Chief Minister had chosen to spend the evening watching a film instead of engaging with the agitating workers, who have been on strike for the past 13 days. She said she had personally witnessed the police action in which sanitation workers were forcefully removed from the protest site, detained, and taken away in about 14 buses. According to her, nearly 800 workers were arrested during the operation. The government has cited a court order as the basis for dispersing the protesters. However, Tamilisai said the manner in which the removal was carried out was unacceptable. "It was distressing to see women who had fainted being taken away in ambulances," she noted, adding that such situations should be handled with sensitivity and respect for the dignity of the workers. She urged Stalin to meet the protesters directly and initiate constructive talks to resolve their demands, warning that allowing the standoff to escalate would only deepen the crisis. The workers, employed in the city's conservancy services, have been protesting against the outsourcing of solid waste management to private contractors and are demanding permanent employment with fair wages. The arrests took place on Wednesday evening while the Chief Minister hosted a private screening of 'Coolie' at his Alwarpet residence for the film's crew. After the screening, Stalin reportedly congratulated the team on the movie's release. The sanitation workers' protest has garnered support from opposition parties, trade unions, and civic activists, who have condemned the government's handling of the situation. Critics argue that the administration's priority should have been to engage with the agitating workers rather than celebrating a film release. With the arrests and the protest now attracting statewide attention, political observers believe the controversy could intensify pressure on the ruling DMK to address labour concerns in municipal services. Tamilisai's remarks have added to the growing chorus of criticism, with calls for the Chief Minister to personally intervene and find an amicable settlement to the impasse. Jerusalem, Aug 14 : Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said that he has approved the construction of 3,401 housing units for settlers in a particularly controversial area of the occupied West Bank. The homes would be built in the E1 area, a stretch of land east of Jerusalem between the city and the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim. Construction there is seen as especially contentious because it would effectively cut off East Jerusalem from the northern West Bank. Building plans in E1 have been frozen for years, largely due to international opposition. Smotrich, leader of a pro-settler party in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition, said the move was also aimed at preventing the establishment of a Palestinian state, Xinhua News Agency reported. "Approval of construction plans in E1 buries the idea of a Palestinian state and continues the many steps we are taking on the ground as part of the de facto sovereignty plan that we began implementing with the establishment of the government," he said in a statement. Peace Now, an Israeli settlement watchdog, said in a statement that the Israeli Housing Ministry approved on Wednesday six new tenders for a total of 4,030 housing units in the West Bank. "Netanyahu's government is using every minute to deepen the annexation of the West Bank and block the possibility of a two-state peace," the group said. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir toured army outposts in southern Lebanon, saying the armed forces had adopted "a new strategic concept" aimed at preempting emerging threats. Video released by the military showed Zamir scanning the area through binoculars, speaking with commanders, and inspecting frontline positions. "We are on the offensive, constantly thwarting threats. We identify and eliminate threats in all arenas," he said. Zamir said that earlier on Wednesday, he had approved plans to "conquer Gaza" before travelling north, while the army continued operations in Syria, Yemen, and the occupied West Bank, and monitored developments in Iran. "We are in a multi-front war, adapting our concepts to the threats. We are active in all arenas -- initiating attacks entirely on our own initiative," he said. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, brokered in November 2024 after 14 months of fighting, has not stopped Israeli strikes. Zamir said the military had killed more than 240 militants and carried out about 600 strikes since the truce began. Tehran, Aug 14 : Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi exchanged views on the latest developments in the Caucasus with senior Russian and Armenian diplomats. In two separate meetings with Igor Khovaev on Wednesday, Russia's special representative for the normalisation of ties between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and Vahan Kostanyan, Armenia's deputy foreign minister, Araghchi also discussed bilateral relations with the two countries, according to statements released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry. In both meetings, Araghchi underlined Iran's principled position of supporting the establishment of peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, highlighting the necessity to peacefully resolve regional issues through efforts by the countries of the region and in the absence of foreign interference. Speaking to Khovaev, he called for using regional mechanisms to resolve regional issues, promoting cooperation and convergence in the region, and guaranteeing the security and collective interests of countries in the Caucasus. Araghchi said Iran and Russia adopted similar positions on important regional and international issues, stressing the need to continue and promote bilateral consultations and cooperation to safeguard their shared interests. The Russian diplomat, for his part, presented a report of his country's diplomatic efforts to ensure peace and calm in the Caucasus, underlining the importance of continuous and close consultations, coordination and interaction between Russia and Iran, Xinhua News Agency reported. In his meeting with the Armenian deputy foreign minister, Araghchi underlined that the unblocking of transit routes in the region should take place while respecting regional countries' national sovereignty and territorial integrity and observing their interests and considerations. He said no plan to unblock transit routes should lead to geopolitical changes in the region or the disruption of connection routes between other countries, stressing that regional states would benefit from any peace agreement in the region. Kostanyan updated Araghchi on the latest developments in the South Caucasus region, giving the assurance that his country considered its relations with Iran as strategic and paid serious attention to regional stability, and Iran's security and geopolitical concerns when making decisions about any agreement pertaining to peace, security and transit routes in the Caucasus. Armenia and Azerbaijan, at loggerheads over the mountainous Nagorno-Karabakh region since 1988, have been having peace talks since 1994, when a ceasefire was agreed on, despite sporadic clashes since then. On Friday, the leaders of the two countries witnessed the initialing of a peace agreement at the White House, ending their decades-long border conflict, with further steps to be taken to eventually sign and ratify the agreement. A deal included in the agreement grants the United States exclusive rights to create and develop a major transit corridor across southern Armenia, which would directly link Azerbaijan to its exclave of Nakhchivan and later Turkey. Brasilia, Aug 14 : Brazil has launched a package of measures to support exporters hit by a 50 per cent tariff imposed by the US government. Launched on Wednesday, the initiative, called Sovereign Brazil, provides 30 billion reais (about 5.562 billion US dollars) in affordable loans, tax breaks and other measures, prioritising small businesses and those dealing in perishable foods, Xinhua News Agency reported. It also facilitates public procurement from affected rural and agro-industrial sectors, modernises the export guarantee system, and reactivates a program to refund taxes in the production chain. In a speech during the announcement, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva rejected the US government's arguments for imposing tariffs on Brazilian products. "It is important to say that we cannot become nervous, apprehensive, or overly excited when there is a crisis. Crises exist so that we can create new things. The unpleasant thing is that there are no justified reasons for imposing tariffs on Brazil," the president said. While the tariff is unjustified, Brazil will not apply reciprocal measures for the time being, he added. "We are not announcing reciprocity. Take note of how good we are at negotiating. Initially, we don't want to do anything that would justify worsening our relationship," he added. He referred to one of the reasons the White House gave for imposing tariffs: that putting Brazil's former President Jair Bolsonaro on trial for attempting to overthrow the government to stay in power was a human rights violation. "Brazil had no reason to be taxed, and we will not accept any accusations that we do not respect human rights in Brazil and that our trial is being conducted arbitrarily," Lula said. Earlier, in July, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that Brazil will not tolerate foreign interference in its internal affairs, amid growing tensions with the US over new tariffs and digital regulations. Speaking to thousands of students at a national congress in Goiania in south-central Brazil, Lula dismissed suggestions that the tariffs were linked to the prosecution of former President Jair Bolsonaro. "We won't accept interference from any foreign country," Lula said. Lula pledged a civil and democratic response, while announcing that US-based digital platforms will be required to comply with Brazilian laws and pay taxes. He accused the companies of fueling disinformation and harming Brazilian society. "This country is sovereign. No foreigner gives orders to the president of Brazil. My only boss is the Brazilian people," he said. Bengaluru, Aug 14 : Following the cancellation of bail for actor Darshan, his partner Pavithra Gowda, and five other accused, the prosecution is preparing to take them into custody immediately. Anil Nishani, senior counsel who made submissions on behalf of the prosecution, stated on Thursday, "We are waiting for the copy of the judgement. As soon as we receive it, the accused will be taken into custody." Nishani further said, "We were confident that the accusedas bail would be cancelled. The Supreme Court objected to the liberal approach taken in granting bail and cancelled it. The Apex Court also stated that it would issue summons in cases of luxury treatment inside prisons. This is a message to the entire nation." "There has been a notion in society that people with money and influence can walk out of prison within six months. The Supreme Court has sent a strong message that no one is above the law," he added. When asked when the arrests would be made, Nishani reiterated, "As soon as the judgement copy is available, we will take them into custody." Meanwhile, police authorities are monitoring the movements of all seven accused in the case. Officers have reached the residence of accused number one, Pavithra Gowda, in Bengaluru. Sources said the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict while she was performing special prayers at the Rajarajeshwari temple. Police personnel are currently stationed in front of her residence. Pavithra Gowda had put up a message on Instagram on Thursday morning stating, "The truth holds greater power than anything else in this world. No matter how long it takes, justice will always find its way and served." Sources stated that Pavithra Gowda broke down after the verdict. Police are also tracking the whereabouts of Darshan. Sources indicated that he had gone to Mysuru and from there travelled towards Tamil Nadu via Chamarajanagar district. Efforts are also underway to trace other accused persons, including Jagadish alias Jagga (Accused number 6), Anukumar alias Anu (A7), Pradosh (A14), Nagaraju alias Naga (A12), and Laxman (A13). According to sources, once the Supreme Court judgement copy is obtained, the prosecution will submit it to the trial court, obtain arrest warrants for all the accused, and initiate arrest procedures. Police have said that if the accused wishes to surrender before the trial court, they will allow it. Reacting to the development, A.S. Ponnanna, Legal Advisor to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Congress MLA, welcomed the Supreme Courtas decision. "The verdict has come in line with the submissions made by the state government and investigating agencies. We had argued that Darshan and the other accused should remain in custody; otherwise, there is a possibility of pressure being exerted on the investigation, trial, and witnesses," he said. "We will bow to the Supreme Courtas order and carry out its directions. We also submitted before the Apex Court that when powerful persons are out on bail, they can influence matters in one way or another. Witnesses can be influenced, and a free and fair investigation becomes impossible," Ponnanna added. The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of Kannada actor Darshan in connection with the fan murder case. The bench also ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. The court has similarly cancelled the bail of Darshan's partner, Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict. A bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Seoul, Aug 14 : A special counsel team in South Korea left the main opposition People Power Party's (PPP) headquarters empty-handed on Thursday, after attempting to secure its membership list as part of an investigation into bribery allegations surrounding former first lady Kim Keon Hee. Special counsel Min Joong-ki's team has been looking into allegations that a shaman linked to Kim and a key Unification Church official tried to get church members to join the party en masse to influence the results of the PPP's leadership race in 2023. After attempting to carry out a search-and-seizure against the PPP's headquarters in Seoul on Wednesday, the team's investigators withdrew early the next morning due to strong refusal from the party, the team said in a press notice. It said it had sought the PPP to voluntarily submit a roster of its members over a certain period of time, while denying that it had demanded the party's entire membership list. The team appears to have sought to secure the roster to compare it with a list of Unification Church members to confirm the allegations about the mass sign-ups to the party. The warrant reportedly detailed the need to check the party's membership list to confirm allegations of violations of the Political Funds Act and acceptance of bribes for mediation, reports Yonhap news agency. The shaman, named Jeon Seong-bae, and the church official, surnamed Yoon, allegedly exchanged texts about then-President Yoon Suk Yeol's support for Rep. Kweon Seong-dong ahead of the party election in March 2023. Kweon, who ultimately did not take part in the race, has denied receiving any political funds from the Unification Church. The church has also denied making any illegal donations to any specific individual. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The Supreme Court on Thursday adjourned for eight weeks the hearing on a plea seeking the Union government's intervention to rescue Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya from execution in Yemen. New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday adjourned for eight weeks the hearing on a plea seeking the Union governmentas intervention to rescue Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya from execution in Yemen. A Bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta deferred the hearing on a writ petition filed by 'Save Nimisha Priya Action Council' after being informed that negotiations with the victimas family were currently underway, and granted liberty to mention the matter in case of any urgency. It may be recalled that the execution of Indian national Nimisha Priya, initially scheduled for July 16, has been temporarily halted. She was sentenced to death in Yemen for murdering Yemeni national Talal Abdo Mehdi and remains behind bars there. In the previous hearing, the Justice Vikram Nath-led Bench had asked the Centre to decide on a representation seeking permission to travel to Yemen to negotiate a pardon for the Indian citizen from the family of the victim. The Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had earlier rejected the petitioneras request to grant travel clearance to the war-torn country, citing severe security risks in Yemen. Under Yemenas Islamic legal framework, a death sentence can be negotiated with the payment of adiya (blood money)' to the victim's family. Nimisha Priya, a nurse from Kollengode in Kerala's Palakkad district, had moved to Yemen in 2008 to support her daily-wage labourer parents. She worked in several hospitals and eventually decided to open her own clinic. In 2017, a dispute arose between her and her Yemeni business partner, Talal Abdo Mahdi, after she reportedly opposed his alleged attempts to misappropriate funds. According to her family, Nimisha allegedly injected Mahdi with sedatives to retrieve her confiscated passport. Tragically, an overdose led to his death. She was arrested while attempting to flee the country and was convicted of murder in 2018. In 2020, a trial court in Sanaa sentenced her to death, and Yemen's Supreme Judicial Council upheld the verdict in November 2023, though it left open the option of blood money. The mother of Nimishra Priya, Prema Kumari (57), has been tirelessly campaigning to secure a waiver of the death penalty. She has also travelled to Sanaa to negotiate the payment of blood money to the victim's family. Her efforts have been supported by the aSave Nimisha Priya International Action Councila, a group of NRI social workers based in Yemen. Seoul, Aug 14 : South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday vowed to address long-standing grievances of Korean women forced into sexual slavery for the old Japanese army during World War II, saying that he would spare no efforts to restore the victims' "honour and dignity." According to historians, up to 200,000 women, mostly Koreans, were coerced into sexual servitude in front-line Japanese brothels during the war, when the Korean Peninsula was a Japanese colony. Those sex slaves were euphemistically called "comfort women" and, as old survivors have continued to die, there are only six surviving victims in South Korea, reports Yonhap news agency. As the nation marked a memorial day for the victims, Lee said the Korean Peninsula's liberation from Japan's colonial rule 80 years ago will remain "incomplete until the truth is set straight." "Although this year marks the 80th anniversary of the country's liberation, the comfort women victims still cannot enjoy freedom and peace, because the issue still remains unresolved despite decades having passed," Lee posted on Facebook. The Aug. 14 memorial day was designated in 2017 in honour of the late Kim Hak-sun, who was the first to come forward publicly and testify about her experience as a victim on August 14, 1991. "It was Kim's courage that awakened the conscience of the international community and started a wave of solidarity," he said. He then pledged all-out efforts to "fully restore the honour and dignity" of the victims and vowed to build a nation where "human rights are common sense." Aug. 14 is also the eve of Liberation Day, which marks the end of the 1910-45 Japanese colonisation of the Korean Peninsula. ISLAMABAD, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Moody's Ratings on Wednesday upgraded Pakistan's local and foreign currency issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to Caa1 from Caa2, citing improvements in the country's external and fiscal positions. In a statement, the rating agency said the stable outlook reflects balanced risks to Pakistan's credit profile, with progress under the International Monetary Fund's Extended Fund Facility program supporting the build-up of foreign exchange reserves and expansion of the tax base. Moody's noted that the sovereign's fiscal position is also strengthening from very weak levels, aided by an expanding tax base. Debt affordability has improved, but remains among the weakest of all rated sovereigns. The stable outlook reflects balanced risks to the country's credit profile. On the upside, debt service burden and external profile improvements could materialize faster than anticipated, while on the downside, delays in reform implementation necessary for securing official financing could erode recent external gains, the agency added. The upgrade also applies to the backed foreign currency senior unsecured ratings for The Pakistan Global Sukuk Programme Co. Ltd., whose associated payment obligations are considered direct obligations of the government. The outlook for the program has likewise been revised to stable from positive, in line with the sovereign outlook. Moody's further raised Pakistan's local and foreign currency country ceilings to B2 and Caa1 from B3 and Caa2, respectively, citing the government's large role in the economy, incomplete capital account convertibility, and the possibility of transfer and convertibility restrictions. The country's Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, welcomed the upgrade, expressing satisfaction over the development and appreciation for his economic team's efforts, the Prime Minister's office said. Sharif said the government was committed to further improving the rating as a reflection of its economic policies moving in the right direction. Kolkata, Aug 14 : The sleuths of the detective department of the Kolkata Police, who are investigating the case of a law college student's rape within the college premises at Kasba in South Kolkata in June this year, are likely to present their first charge sheet in the matter at a trial court within the month. Sources aware of the development said that the sleuths of the investigating team in the matter are in the process of winding up their probe, and hence, the charge sheet in the matter is expected to be presented in the lower court within this month. It is learnt that all four arrested in the case would be shown as accused in the matter. The four arrested persons are Monojit Mishra, Jaib Ahmed, Pramit Mukhopadhyay, and Pinaki Banerjee. While Mishra has been identified as the perpetrator of the crime of rape of the law college student, Ahmed and Mukhopadhyay have been identified as the facilitators in the crime. The fourth arrested person in the case is Pinaki Banerjee, a security guard of the law college, who, as per the statement recorded by the victim with the police immediately after the incident on the evening of June 25, was the "sole helpless" witness to the crime committed on her. On Wednesday, the sleuths of the detective department probing the matter collected the voice samples of Mishra at Presidency Central Correctional Home in South Kolkata, where all four arrested in the case are currently housed. According to the Joint Commissioner (Crime) of Kolkata Police, Rupesh Kumar, the collection of the voice samples was done on the basis of an instruction from the trial court. Earlier in July, the city police informed that they secured crucial evidence from two separate forensic reports. They also secured CCTV footage, where the accused persons were seen dragging the victim to the guard room, where the crime of rape took place. Mishra had several criminal antecedents of hooliganism, causing grievous injury to others with sharp weapons, beating up junior students by bringing in anti-social elements from outside, and even sexually assaulting fellow female students. However, all these were ignored by both the college authorities and the police administration till the time the rape of a law student within the college premises took place and shook up Kolkata. Patna, Aug 14 : Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday conducted an aerial survey of flood-hit regions in Bihar and instructed officials to intensify relief and rescue operations as water levels in major rivers, including the Ganga and Kosi, crossed danger marks. The CM, accompanied by Water Resources Minister Vijay Chaudhary and senior officials, flew over the worst-affected districts, including Bhagalpur, Bhojpur, Begusarai and Khagaria. The survey came a day later than planned after bad weather grounded his helicopter on August 13. According to the Water Resources Department, over 17 lakh people have been affected across 24 districts, where 'Yellow' and 'Orange' alerts are in force. Ten rivers, including the Ganga, are in spate, flooding low-lying areas and displacing thousands. Nitish Kumar has been holding regular meetings with officials at his residence to monitor the situation, seeking prompt action to ensure timely evacuation, relief distribution, and medical assistance. "The government is making every effort to minimise public hardship," he assured. The India Meteorological Department has warned of more rainfall in the coming days, raising fears of worsening conditions. The Meteorological Centre, Patna, has forecast light to heavy rain with thunder and lightning over the next three to four days across Bihar, as rivers including the Ganga, Kosi, and Bagmati approach danger levels in several locations. Khagaria district was the worst hit in the past 24 hours, recording 206 mm of rainfall. Mansi in Khagaria saw 188.6 mm, Parsa in Saran 157.4 mm, Taibpur in Kishanganj 135.2 mm, and Raniganj in Araria 122.4 mm. Purnea, Rohtas, and Begusarai received 7698 mm, further swelling river levels. Patna experienced intermittent showers throughout Wednesday, with 29.1 mm recorded. Waterlogging was reported in Kankarbagh, Patna Junction, Danapur and Patna City. The city can expect light to moderate rain with thundershowers in the next 24 hours. The Met Department has issued a heavy to very heavy rain alert for northern districts, including Kishanganj, Araria, and Supaul, alongside warnings of 3040 km/h winds for Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, and other southern districts. Kishanganj also reported wind speeds of 33 km/h. Kolkata, Aug 14 : The BJP on Thursday said the Trinamool Congress regime under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has pushed West Bengal back into the darkness filled with hate and rioting as was witnessed in 1947. BJP leader Amit Malviya, who is the party's Information Technology Cell Chief, said the Mamata-led Trinamool Congress regime has brought back the dark days of riots, forcing the people to relive the trauma. "78 years ago, in 1947, Bengal was butchered on Cyril Radcliffe's deskhacked into two and handed to Pakistan. Sanatani Bengalis paid the price with their blood, their homes, and their dignity. Barely had Bengal begun to heal from the carnage unleashed by Jihadi elements, Mamata Banerjee's rule dragged it back into the same darkness, forcing people to relive the trauma," Malviya said in a social media post on Thursday afternoon. According to him, 400-500 Hindu families were hounded from their homes by Jihadi mobs in the name of an "anti-Waqf" protest. According to him, there had been instances of Bengali Hindu women being violated, brutalised, and paraded by TMC's Shariat-warriors like Sheikh Shahjahan and Tajimul Haque. "Students in Darivit were shot dead for demanding Bengali teachers instead of Urdu ones. And the list goes on" commented Malviya in his social media post. According to him, to guard her throne, Mamata Banerjee's unbridled appeasement has reopened the festering wounds of partition. "2026 will restore Bengal's glory and lay the foundation of Tagore's Sonar Bangla once again," his post read. In another social media post, Malviya referred to an observation by the Supreme Court, "What if an infiltrator enters illegally? If you don't detain, the writing on the wall is that they will disappear." The apex court made this observation while declining an interim stay on the detention of Bengali Muslim migrants during nationality verification. "This is a BIG BLOW to West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's politics of regularising illegal Bangladeshi Muslims and Rohingyasinfiltrators who entered through the porous borders of her state and were handed multiple documents by the local administration to get them on the voter rolls," Malviya claimed. According to him, various estimates indicate over one crore illegal and ineligible voters in West Bengal alone. "The number of such infiltrators, now scattered across the country, is several times highera ticking demographic time bomb," Malviya added. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The sales of automobiles in the country posted a "stable performance" in July this year, across all segments including passenger vehicles (cars and utility vehicles), two-wheelers, three-wheelers and quadricycle, to cross a total of 26.98 lakh units during the month, according to a Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) statement released on Thursday. The two-wheeler segment grew by 8.7 per cent in July 2025, as compared to July 2024, with sales surpassing 15.67 lakh units. Scooter sales grew by 16.2 per cent to 6,43,169 in July as compared with 5,53,642 units in the corresponding month last year. Similarly, motorcycle sales grew by 4.7 per cent to 8,90,107 units during the month as compared with 8,50,489 units in July 2024. The three-wheeler segment posted its highest-ever July sales at 0.69 lakh units, which represents a growth of 17.5 per cent as compared to the same month of the previous year. However, the overall sentiment in the passenger vehicle segment, comprising cars and utility vehicles, has remained subdued so far, with a marginal de-growth of (-) 0.2 per cent at 3.41 lakh units in July, compared to the same month last year, according to the SIAM statement. "All vehicle segments posted stable performance in July 2025, as compared to July 2024. With the advent of the festive season beginning with Onam festivities in the latter part of August, the Indian auto industry remains cautiously optimistic for the demand momentum to pick up in the coming months," SIAM Director General Rajesh Menon said. "In terms of exports, the total PV exports during the month grew by 8.7 per cent to around 67,292 units as compared with 61,929 units in July last year. Total two-wheeler exports grew by 33.5 per cent to 4,33,873 units in July this year as compared to 3,24,908 units in the corresponding month last year. Meanwhile, passenger vehicles have recorded their highest-ever exports in Q1 of 2025-26 at 2.04 Lakh units, registering a growth of 13.2 per cent over Q1 of 2024-25, according to SIAM data. Export growth in this segment was driven by stable demand across most markets, with strong performance in the Middle East and Latin America. Revival in neighbouring markets like Sri Lanka and Nepal, rising demand from Japan, and growing exports under FTAs, such as Australia, also contributed to the overall uptick, the statement said. Exports of two-wheelers shot up to 1.14 million units with a robust growth of 23.2 per cent in Q1 of 2025-26, over Q1 of last year. This growth was driven by a revival in neighbouring markets and continued growth momentum across key export markets. Chennai, Aug 14 : Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad launched a sharp attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of a sustained 11-year campaign to undermine Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Election Commission of India (ECI). Prasad alleged that Rahul Gandhi's recent "vote theft" remarks were an attempt to equate the ECI - an independent constitutional body - with the Congress party's "corrupt and self-serving" governance legacy. The senior BJP leader asserted that, unlike Congress administrations led by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh or current party president Mallikarjun Kharge, the ECI functioned with complete autonomy under the framework established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He described the Commission as a "globally respected institution" that conducts free and fair elections, and said Rahul Gandhi's comments were an affront to India's democratic ethos. "These remarks betray the spirit of our Constitution and damage public trust in democratic institutions," Prasad said. According to the BJP spokesperson, Rahul Gandhi's political strategy since 2014 has been marked by "baseless allegations" against PM Modi, which have repeatedly been disproven by electoral results, judicial scrutiny, and public support. Citing episodes from demonetisation to the Rafale deal, farm law protests, the China border issue, and the GST rollout, Prasad claimed that Rahul's campaigns collapsed in the face of facts and voter rejection. He also accused Rahul of fuelling caste, communal, and separatist divisions, rather than working for development and national unity. On demonetisation, Prasad noted that Rahul Gandhi's prediction of economic collapse proved wrong as digital payments flourished, even among street vendors. He recalled how the 'Chowkidar Chor Hai' slogan in the Rafale case backfired, resulting in Rahul's defeat in Amethi in 2019 and a subsequent court apology. On the farmers' protests, Prasad said PM Modi's repeal of the farm laws brought no electoral gains for Congress, while the BJP retained voter confidence in key states. Prasad also dismissed Rahul Gandhi's accusations over the Citizenship Amendment Act, claiming it was a humanitarian measure aligned with Indiaas secular values. He cited Rahulas criticism of industrialists Adani and Ambani as politically counterproductive, pointing to investments by these companies in Congress-ruled states. Similarly, he said Rahul Gandhi's concerns over the China border were contradicted by allies and lacked evidence. Referring to recent ECI rebuttals of "vote theft" claims in Maharashtra and Karnataka, Prasad said Congress had failed to provide proof, with even a state minister resigning. He urged Rahul to instead demand probes into alleged voter fraud in Rae Bareli, Wayanad, and Kolathur -charges raised by BJP MP Anurag Thakur. Prasad concluded that unless Rahul Gandhi adopts a "constructive, patriotic, and development-oriented" political approach, Congress risks further electoral irrelevance as India advances toward becoming a global superpower by 2047 under PM Modi's leadership. London, Aug 14 : Tottenham Hotspur have strongly condemned the racial abuse directed at forward Mathys Tel following their defeat to Paris St-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup, calling the abusers "nothing but cowards". Spurs' first-ever appearance in the UEFA Super Cup ended in a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain after letting slip a two-goal lead. Tel, 20, who came on as a substitute in the 79th minute, was one of two Spurs players who failed to convert from the spot in the penalty shootout. The France Under-21 international, who signed a permanent deal worth A 30 million after joining the club on loan in January, was targeted with abuse on social media after firing his effort wide. "We are disgusted at the racial abuse that Mathys Tel has received on social media following last nightas UEFA Super Cup defeat," Spurs said in a statement. "Mathys showed bravery and courage to step forward and take a penalty, yet those who abuse him are nothing but cowards - hiding behind anonymous usernames and profiles to spout their abhorrent views," it added. The club said it will work with the authorities and social media platforms to take the strongest possible action against the abusers. Tel made 20 appearances for Spurs last season, scoring three goals and was an unused substitute for their victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final. Europa League winners Spurs were leading 2-0 after 84 minutes and were close to winning their second silverware in three months, but a late rally saw PSG come from 2-0 down in the 84th minute to draw level, taking a scintillating contest to penalties. Vitinha missed PSG's first penalty, but Van de Ven and Mathys Tel then failed to convert for Spurs, and it was left for Nuno Mendes to coolly stroke in the decisive fifth kick and earn the French side's first-ever Super Cup triumph. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The Supreme Court on Thursday agreed to examine a public interest litigation (PIL) alleging that Bengali-speaking migrant workers are being detained across several states of the country on suspicion of being Bangladeshi nationals. Issuing notice, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi sought responses of the Centre and the governments of Odisha, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, and West Bengal in the matter. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the West Bengal Migrant Welfare Board, submitted that the detentions are creating panic among Bengali-speaking migrants across the country and pressed for an interim order to be issued against the detentions. "Let them verify, no problem. The problem is that they are detaining these migrants. Some are being tortured. It is causing panic. The Foreigners Act does not authorise the government to detain people on suspicion that they are foreigners," he said. However, the Justice Surya Kant-led Bench refused to pass any interim directions, observing: "If we pass any interim orders, there will be consequences, especially for those who have illegally crossed the border and need to be deported under the law." The apex court remarked that the state government where these migrant workers are employed has the right to inquire with their state of origin about their bona fides. It asked whether any nodal agency or authority existed under any statutory framework to coordinate between the state of origin and the state where migrants work. Further, the Justice Surya Kant-led Bench mulled for the introduction of some mechanism to verify bona fide workers - such as the state of origin issuing a card that the local police could accept as prima facie proof that the holder had come for livelihood. As per the computerised case status, the matter is tentatively listed for hearing after two weeks. The PIL claimed that Bengali-speaking Muslim migrant workers are being held in detention centres on suspicion of being foreigners, as they possess documents in the Bangla language. It added that in some cases, they were even deported, only for authorities to bring them back to India after verification. --IANS pds/vd Jamshedpur, Aug 14 : A man in Jharkhand's Jamshedpur allegedly killed his wife over suspicion of an illicit relationship, before committing suicide by coming under a train, officials said on Thursday. On Thursday morning, locals informed the police that the body of Shilpi Mukherjee, 35, the wife of Saheb Mukherjee, 40, was lying inside her house in Namotola under the Parsudih police station limits. Police reached the spot and found her naked body, with multiple stab wounds. She was reportedly working as a nurse at a community health centre in Potka in the Jamshedpur city while her husband was employed with a contract firm at Turamdih Mines in Sundernagar. A handwritten note, allegedly written by Mukherjee, and a mobile phone were recovered from the scene where Shilpi's body was found. The note claimed that Shilpi had "cheated" on him. "So, I am going to kill her. She concealed the fact that she had been married twice before and often engaged in video calls with a colleague named Vivek, which led to frequent arguments," the note read. Mukherjee, in his note, also alleged that Shilpi's mother and brother had threatened to kill him when he objected to her closeness with Vivek. In his mobile status and note, he expressed anguish over the alleged betrayal, stating: "If a wife chooses to speak with another man over a video call, then life feels unbearable -- but why should I be the only one to suffer?" He also expressed sorrow for his elderly parents and urged that the "truth" be told to them. Following the discovery of the note, police launched a search for Mukherjee and later found his body on a railway track near Nandup in Sundernagar. Both bodies have been sent for a post-mortem examination. Police said an investigation is underway into the case, which has sent shockwaves through the area. New Delhi, Aug 14 : In a bid to "boost voter confidence", the Supreme Court, in an interim order passed on Thursday, directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to upload district-wise data of about 65 lakh electors in poll-bound Bihar whose names were omitted in the draft electoral rolls following the initial phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR). A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi ordered that the details of these electors, whose enumeration forms were not submitted, should be uploaded on the official websites by Tuesday (August 19), along with the reasons such as death, permanent migration, duplication, or being untraceable. The information uploaded on the websites of the District Electoral Officers and the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar should be searchable using EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) numbers, added the Justice Surya Kant-led Bench. It said that the poll body would give wide publicity to the list uploaded on the official websites through newspapers, electronic, social media and other means of communication. Further, the apex court also directed the ECI to specify in public notices that excluded individuals, when submitting their claims for inclusion in the final list, may also furnish their Aadhaar cards. The directions were passed by the bench while hearing a batch of pleas challenging the June 26 order issued by the ECI directing SIR in Bihar. The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) had moved an application before the top court seeking two directions directions to the poll body: first, to publish a constituency and booth-wise list of omitted electors with reasons such as death, permanent migration, duplication, or being untraceable; and second, to disclose the names of electors whose enumeration forms have been "not recommended" by the Booth Level Officers (BLOs). In an affidavit filed before the Supreme Court, the ECI opposed the ADRas application, stating that the statutory scheme under the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, does not mandate creating or publishing such a list. The poll body said that it was not required to prepare or share any separate list of names of people not included in the draft electoral rolls, or publish the reasons for non-inclusion of anyone in the draft electoral rolls for any reason. It added that any eligible voter whose name is missing can file Form 6 along with a declaration to lodge a claim for inclusion in the draft electoral rolls during the claims and objections period, i.e., between August 1 and September 1. The above process implicitly indicates that the applicant is not deceased, permanently shifted, or untraceable, the poll body said. As per the ECI, exclusion of a name from the draft rolls is not equivalent to deletion from the electoral rolls. "The draft roll simply shows that the duly filled enumeration form of existing electors has been received during the enumeration phase," it submitted. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday strongly rejected Opposition allegations that his government has shut down 29,000 schools, asserting instead that the state's education system is being strengthened through integration and modernisation initiatives. Speaking in the Assembly, CM Adityanath clarified that schools with fewer than 50 students and located within a one-kilometre radius are being merged under a "school pairing" initiative to create integrated campuses with improved infrastructure. "Our aim is to achieve a 22:1 studentteacher ratio and enhance education quality," he said. Highlighting pre-2017 conditions, CM Adityanath said 1.56 lakh basic and affiliated schools faced poor infrastructure, an imbalanced studentteacher ratio, and the highest dropout rate in the country. Under programmes like 'School Chalo Abhiyan' and 'Operation Kayakalp', community members and public representatives were encouraged to adopt schools, leading to upgrades such as smart classes, digital libraries, solar power, playgrounds, and better seating. Students now receive two uniforms, bags, books, shoes, and socks free of cost. Bal Vatika and pre-primary classes for children aged 36 years are being introduced, while a Rs 100 crore CM Nutrition Mission package will address malnutrition and anaemia among children. Since 2017, UP has recorded 40 lakh new school enrollments and a sharp fall in dropout rates. CM Adityanath also cited progress in higher and technical education, including courses in AI, Robotics, and Space Technology in 150 government ITIs, the establishment of 71 new government colleges, and the renovation of 75-year-old inter colleges. On employment, CM Adityanath claimed 8.5 lakh jobs have been given since 2017, including to 1.75 lakh women, boosting female workforce participation from 13.5 per cent to 35 per cent and reducing unemployment from 19 per cent to 3 per cent. Through CM YUVA, 1.65 crore youth have found jobs, while UP now hosts 7,200 startups and 50 incubators. CM Adityanath added, "In the police force, 62,200 new personnel have been recruited. Training capacity has expanded from 3,000 to 60,000, and residential facilities have been upgraded from dilapidated barracks to modern high-rise complexes." Cybercrime, identified as a major challenge, is now being tackled with one cyber police station in each of the 75 districts, compared to just one in Gautam Buddha Nagar before 2017. A dedicated cyber headquarters is being established, and cyber help desks are now operational in every police station in the state. Flash: Wife of S. Korea's ex-president Yoon arrives at special counsel's office to be questioned Bengaluru, Aug 14 : Fan murder case prime accused Pavithra Gowda, partner of actor Darshan, was arrested from Bengaluru on Thursday following the Supreme Court's cancellation of her bail. She was taken into custody from her residence in RR Nagar. Bengaluru police have formed seven teams to arrest all seven accused by the end of the day. The department has instructed officers to produce the accused before the court, either in person or via video conference, by the day's end. A team from RR Nagar police, led by the inspector and accompanied by women police officers, carried out the arrest. Police sources said Pavithra Gowda will undergo a medical examination before being produced before the trial court. Meanwhile, police are tracking the whereabouts of actor Darshan, the second accused, even as his advocates have approached the investigating officer, requesting that the actor be allowed to surrender before the trial court. According to police sources, Darshan crossed the Suvarnavathi toll in Chamarajanagar district at 6.11 a.m. on Thursday, heading towards Tamil Nadu to attend a horse fair. They also revealed that Darshan had gone to Mysuru on Wednesday night and later travelled to Madikeri. Earlier on Thursday morning, Pavithra Gowda posted a message on Instagram stating: "The truth holds greater power than anything else in this world. No matter how long it takes, justice will always find its way and be served." Sources said she broke down after hearing the verdict. They added that the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict while she was performing special prayers at the Rajarajeshwari temple. The police sources have confirmed that they have arrested the accused Pradosh, while efforts are also underway to trace other accused - Jagadish alias Jagga, Anukumar alias Anu, Nagaraju alias Naga, and Laxman. Cancelling the bail of Darshan in connection with the fan murder case, the apex court ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. The court has similarly cancelled the bail of Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict. A bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Pavithra Gowda had earlier urged the Supreme Court not to cancel her bail, stating that she is a single parent who needs to care for her daughter, a class 10 student, and also look after her aged parents. Her submission had claimed she was a victim of sexual harassment by Renukaswamy. On the day of the crime, she had no communication with any of the accused. She argued that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges of kidnapping and murder against her. She further emphasised that she has no criminal background and had no involvement in Renukaswamy's murder. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday urged tribal students from Andaman and Nicobar Islands to contribute towards making India one of the most powerful nations. The 30 meritorious higher secondary students, visiting New Delhi to witness the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on Friday, listened to motivational words of the Defence Minister with rapt attention as he exhorted them to face every challenge with confidence and without fear. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit were also present during the interaction. Rajnath Singh asked the students to contribute towards making India one of the most powerful nations in the times to come and wished them luck for their future endeavours. He also underscored the importance of human values, terming them as the most vital aspect in building a personas character. He exhorted the students to remain rooted in human values and lay equal emphasis on building their character alongside academic pursuits. The students' interaction with the Defence Minister at his office at South Block was part of Aarohan: Dweep to Delhi, a seven-day National Integration Tour organised by the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC). The students also presented him with a traditional handcrafted souvenir from local tribal artisans of the Islands. The Defence Minister also commended this unique initiative by the ANC, supported by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, HQ Delhi Area, and Civil Administration of the Islands. 'Aarohan: Dweep to Delhi' is designed to provide exposure to the youth from remote island communities to India's rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and academic opportunities. The students' itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, India Gate, National War Memorial and Taj Mahal, along with premier institutions like Delhi Technological University and the National Science Centre. The programme reflects the Government's commitment to fostering national integration and empowering future leaders from the Islands. Bengaluru, Aug 14 : The BJP on Thursday alleged that the Karnataka government joined hands with divisive forces to defame the pilgrimage centre Dharmasthala in connection with the alleged mass graves case. Raising the issue in the Legislative Assembly under Rule 69, BJP State General Secretary and MLA, V. Sunil Kumar, made strong accusations against the government. "The Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI) has entered into the matter. What is their connection with Dharmasthala? People are making statements that they will take JCBs and barge into Dharmasthala and enter the temple. "For the past two months, a systematic campaign has been carried out against Hindu sentiments, and the government is keeping quiet. With whom have you (the government) joined hands to carry out this conspiracy?" Sunil Kumar questioned. "Do you think you can play with Hindu religious feelings as you wish? What is the agenda of the Congress-led government? The unknown complainant, known as the amask mana, came with a skull on July 11. On July 16, Home Minister G. Parameshwara met Karnataka incharge Randeep Singh and announced the formation of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on July 19. Is it the Congress high commandas agenda to defame Dharmasthala? Is this the conspiracy of the INDIA bloc?" he alleged. "Dharmasthala is a sacred place. Every home in Karnataka has reverence for the holy place and Lord Manjunatha. People have the custom of visiting this place at least once a year," he stated. "For the past few months, there has been a systematic propaganda campaign against it. Continuous attacks are being made on religious beliefs with the intention of weakening the religion. There is a feeling among people that the Congress-led government is sympathetic towards those carrying out this vicious campaign," Sunil Kumar alleged. "When the DJ Halli and KG Halli violence took place in Bengaluru, a group burnt the police station and the sitting MLAas house over one post against their religion. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended the people who indulged in violence, saying their religious sentiments were hurt. In the case of Dharmasthala, how should the crowd react?" Sunil Kumar asked. "The Karnataka police are booking suo motu cases against communal posts, and BJP workers have been arrested for sharing a post on the Ramayan. Why is there no FIR even after such a vicious campaign? Attempts being made are not for justice but for hurting religious sentiments," he claimed. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar responded, saying, "I believe in Dharmasthalaas Lord Manjunatha and the family managing the temple. This is the place where the custom of offering food to lakhs of devotees was started for the first time. "Donat link the developments surrounding the investigation to the Congress party. More than the BJP, Congress leaders are concerned about keeping the image of the temple town unaffected. Our government is committed to protecting the philosophy of service and religious work carried out in Dharmasthala." Dy CM Shivakumar further said that the man had approached the court and the government was obliged to act. "We are more concerned than you about protecting the reputation of the religious centre," the Dy CM stated. Suresh Kumar said, "There is no connection between your words and actions. Your government says the SIT was not required, but forms it the next day. Your government is going everywhere the unknown complainant takes it and conducting excavations without any logic." Sunil Kumar concluded by saying, "Lodge one FIR against the vicious campaign to show your commitment. Issue a statement from the government regarding the findings of the probe. Across the state, in 17 districts, people are taking to the streets. Act before the situation goes out of control." Raipur, Aug 14 : The Chhattisgarh government on Thursday organised Sanskriti Guarav Maha Sammelan at Dharamajaygarh to pay tribute to late Union MoS Dilip Singh Judev. In a programme organised at Dussehra Maidan, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, his Cabinet colleagues and distinguished public figures marked the death anniversary and celebrated Judev's legacy as a revered public leader and a staunch protector of Indian culture, religion, and social values. "Known for his commitment to public service, Judev led the Ghar Wapsi campaign, reconnecting millions with their cultural roots. His fearless stand against cow slaughter and religious conversion earned him admiration across communities. His simplicity, visionary leadership, and principled life made him a beloved figure among all sections of society," CM Vishnu Deo Sai said adding: "The Sammelan served as a reminder of his enduring influence and the values he championed throughout his life." Judev was a politician and former Minister of State for Environment and Forests in Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance government. He had initiated Ghar Wapsi ( 'Returning Home') -- a programme of religious conversion to Hinduism from Islam, Christianity, and other religions in India conducted by Indian Hindu nationalist organisations. Various programmes organised on the occasion. In a symbolic gesture of respect and welfare, the chief minister offered Charan Padukas a pair of flip-flop to Rashi Bai Rathia, a tendu leaf collector from Kodwaripara in Dharamjaygarh, underscoring the Charan Paduka Yojana's grassroots impact. The footwear distribution scheme aimed at improving the working conditions of tendu leaf collectors across the state. Originally launched in November 2005, the Charan Paduka scheme was discontinued under the previous administration. The current government, led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has reinstated it with renewed commitment, allocating Rs 40 crore to benefit over 1.24 million tendu leaf collectors. Each eligible householdcomprising native residents of Chhattisgarhwill receive one pair of footwear annually for up to two adult members engaged in tendu leaf collection. Initially limited to male beneficiaries, the scheme was expanded in 2008 to include women. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister emphasised that the scheme is not merely a welfare measure but a tribute to the dignity, sacrifice, and hard work of forest-dependent communities. "This is not just a schemeit is a symbol of our sensitivity and respect for those who toil in the forests. No longer will the feet of our tendu leaf collector brothers and sisters be pricked by thorns," he said. Tendu leaves, known as "green gold," are a vital non-timber forest produce used primarily in bidi rolling cottage industry. The collection of these leaves forms the backbone of seasonal income for tribal families across central India. Recognising their contribution, the government has also increased the tendu leaf collection rate from 4,500 to 5,500 per standard sack, further bolstering forest-based livelihoods. Chennai, Aug 14 : Actress Shilpa Shirodkar, who worked with Tamil superstar Rajinikanth in the Hindi blockbuster 'Hum' almost 34 years ago, has now congratulated the Tamil superstar on completing 50 glorious years in the film industry, saying, Indian cinema was blessed to have him. Taking to her Instagram page to pen a heartfelt post, Shilpa Shirodkar, who worked alongside superstars Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth along with Govinda in the film, said, "I had the privilege of working with Rajini Sir at the very beginning of my career, and I must say itas a memory I will cherish forever. Thank you, Rajini Sir, for instilling in me the values of hard work, discipline, and kindness, which I still hold very close to my heart. You are truly an inspiration to me and to all of us!" The actress, who said that she considered working alongside him an honour, added, "You rule the industry with your style and the magic you create on screen and we can't wait for what's more to come! Congratulations on completing 50 years in the industry. Indian cinema is blessed to have you. Love you always, Shilpa Shirodkar @rajinikanth #50yearsofrajinikanth #hum" Shilpa Shirodkar is the latest to greet Rajinikanth on his landmark achievement of completing 50 years in the film industry. Already several film industry professionals cutting across film industries have complimented the actor for his phenomenal achievement. Actor, producer, director and Member of Parliament Kamal Haasan, in his congratulatory message to his close friend and fellow actor Rajinikanth, had said, "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 @Dir_Lokesh, backed by the pillar of our industry Kalanithi Maran @sunpictures, enriched by the ever-inventive @anirudhofficial, and brought to life by my long-time friends #Sathyaraj, @iamnagarjuna, #AamirKhan, @nimmaupendra, and #SoubinShahir. A special cheer to my darling daughter @shrutihaasan, keep shining bright." Ace director Lokesh Kanakaraj, who has directed Rajinikanth's just released film Coolie, too had expressed gratitude to the film's lead actor Superstar Rajinikanth, for both the opportunity to direct the film and also for the conversations they had both on the sets of the film and off it. Wishing Rajinikanth on the occasion of the actor completing 50 years in the film industry, Lokesh had said, "#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." He went on to say, "Will forever be grateful for this opportunity, and the conversations weave shared both on and off the film! These are moments I will always cherish and never forget. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for continuously inspiring all of us and hearty congratulations on completing 50 glorious years of making us love you, learn from you, and grow with you! We Love you #Thalaivaa." Bhubaneswar, Aug 14 : Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) President Bhakta Charan Das on Thursday announced the launch of a statewide Mashal Yatra to protest alleged electoral fraud in the 2024 Assembly elections. Das stated that the protest aims to "save democracy and protect the people's mandate" and will be carried out in all districts of the state on Thursday. Addressing the media, Das alleged serious irregularities in the voter list and questioned the polling pattern, claiming that between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., around 42 lakh votes were cast. He further asked why the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), despite winning 51 Assembly seats, failed to secure even a single Lok Sabha seat. Comparing the results to the 2009 elections, Das pointed out that congress had then won Lok Sabha seats in proportion to its assembly performance, whereas the BJD this time had no such proportional representation. The Mashal Yatra, he said, will continue across Odisha as part of the Congress' campaign to "restore the sanctity of democratic processes". Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who alleged that multiple voters were registered at the same address at a press conference and accused the BJP of "stealing votes" in connivance with the ECI. The Congress leader claimed to have shared data supporting his charge, but the Election Commission of India (ECI) is insisting on an affidavit. The Commission has reportedly noted that if anyone has any proof of any person actually voting twice in any election, it should be shared with ECI with a written Affidavit rather than colouring all the electors of India as 'Chor' without any proof. On August 7, Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of adding fake names to voter rolls, citing examples from Karnataka, and claimed a "massive theft of votes" in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment of the Bangalore Central Lok Sabha seat. The Commission has already rejected such allegations as baseless and misleading. On the other hand, the opposition BJD has also earlier announced to move Orissa High Court over alleged voting discrepancies during the Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections in the state last year. Kolkata, Aug 14 : The West Bengal government on Thursday approached a single-judge Bench of Calcutta High Court seeking permission to register an FIR against Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, over the latter's participation in the 'Nabanna Avijan (march to state secretariat)' on August 9 that was marred by violence, on the first anniversary of the rape and murder of a woman doctor at R.G. Kar Hospital. The state government approached the Calcutta High Court on this count since the LoP enjoys "protection from FIRs" given to him by the Supreme Court in 2022, where the apex court said that the state administration will have to seek the court's permission even before registering an FIR against him. However, the state government approached the single-judge Bench of Justice Jay Sengupta on Thursday to seek permission to file an FIR against Adhikari in the matter. As the matter came up for hearing, Adhikari's counsel argued that since the protection had been granted by the apex court, the Calcutta High Court had no authority to hear the matter. At the end of the hearing, Justice Sengupta's Bench accepted the argument of LoP Adhikari's counsel and said without fresh instruction from "an appropriate" court, his Bench would not be able to hear the matter. The first anniversary of the 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 victim's 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 in Bengal, was broken. Meanwhile, five policemen were injured in the scuffle with protesters and the Kolkata Police had on Tuesday issued summons to BJP MLA Ashok Dinda to appear before it for allegedly threatening to beat up policemen during the 'Nabanna Avijan' protest on August 9. The BJP MLA has been asked to appear before the officers of New Market Police Station on August 17. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed at least 23 lives and injuring 75 others. "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," PM Modi said in a post on X. Officials said the injured are being airlifted to hospitals, with helicopters pressed into service due to the remote location. A massive joint operation involving the Army, NDRF, SDRF, and local administration is underway to evacuate stranded people and provide medical aid. Minister of State (PMO) Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident and said that rescue teams had been dispatched to carry out damage assessment and relief work. "All possible support will be extended to the affected area," he assured. J&K LG Manoj Sinha expressed anguish, directing civil and security agencies to intensify rescue and relief operations. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he had briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah on the grim situation, adding that resources were being mobilised from within and outside the Union Territory. Leader of the Opposition in the J&K Assembly, Sunil Sharma of the BJP, along with senior district officials, reached the site to lead rescue efforts. ADC Kishtwar has confirmed the suspension of the Shri Machail Yatra until further notice, as the incident occurred near the pilgrimage route. The cloudburst has caused extensive damage to temporary shops and structures, though exact figures are still being assessed. Poor connectivity in the shadow zone, coupled with heavy rains, is hampering rescue operations and the flow of verified information. Authorities have appealed to the public not to panic, assuring that all resources, including the Red Cross and other relief agencies, are engaged in the mission. Bengaluru, Aug 14 : Kannada actor and fan murder case accused Darshan was arrested from his wife's flat in Bengaluru on Thursday after the Supreme Court ordered cancellation of his bail and his immediate arrest. Darshan had arrived from out of town in his vehicle and met his wife and family at the Prestige South Ridge Apartments in the Hosakerehalli locality of Bengaluru. Police took Darshan, who was wearing a white mask, into custody and shifted him to the Annapoorneshwari Nagar police station. He will undergo a medical examination and will later be produced before the court. After learning that Darshan was not in Bengaluru, the police had formed three teams to track him down. Sources stated that Darshan attempted to switch cars to mislead the media and police, and entered the flat through the back entrance. A large number of fans gathered near his residence and raised slogans in his support. Following the apex court order, police earlier sought to track the whereabouts of the actor, even as his advocates have approached the investigating officer, requesting that the actor be allowed to surrender before the trial court. According to police sources, Darshan had crossed the Suvarnavathi toll in Chamarajanagar district at 6.11 a.m. on Thursday and went to Tamil Nadu to attend a horse fair. They also revealed that Darshan had gone to Mysuru on Wednesday night and later travelled to Madikeri. Earlier in the day, Pavithra Gowda, the prime accused and partner of Darshan, was arrested from her residence in RR Nagar, Bengaluru. A team from RR Nagar police, led by the inspector and accompanied by women police officers, carried out the arrest. Police sources said she would undergo a medical examination before being produced before the trial court. In the morning, Pavithra Gowda posted a message on Instagram stating: "The truth holds greater power than anything else in this world. No matter how long it takes, justice will always find its way and be served." Sources said she broke down after hearing the verdict. They added that the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict while she was performing special prayers at the Rajarajeshwari temple. Bengaluru police have formed separate teams to arrest all seven accused by the end of the day. Police officials have been directed to produce the accused before the court either in person or via video conference by day's end. DCP West S. Girish stated that so far the police have arrested five accused - Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, Laxman, Pradosh, and Nagaraj aka Naga. Efforts are also underway to trace the other two accused - Jagadish alias Jagga and Anukumar alias Anu, both residents of Chitradurga district. Police sources stated that the police teams have reached Chitradurga already. The Supreme Court, cancelling the bail of Darshan in connection with the fan murder case, ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. It similarly cancelled the bail of Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict. A bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Pavithra Gowda had earlier urged the Supreme Court not to cancel her bail, stating that she is a single parent who needs to care for her daughter, a class 10 student, and also look after her aged parents. Her submission had claimed she was a victim of sexual harassment by Renukaswamy. On the day of the crime, she had no communication with any of the accused. She argued that the prosecution had failed to prove the charges of kidnapping and murder against her. She further emphasised that she has no criminal background and had no involvement in Renukaswamy's murder. Ranchi, Aug 14 : Nineteen migrant workers from Jharkhand's Bokaro and Hazaribagh districts are stranded in the west African nation of Cameroon and have issued desperate appeals to the central and state governments for their immediate rescue. These workers, who travelled to Cameroon through a private agency to take up jobs related to electricity transmission, allege that their employer has not paid them for the past four months. In a series of videos shared on social media, they described their worsening situation, saying they are struggling to afford food, water, and other basic necessities in Cameroon. "We are dependent on handouts to survive. If someone falls ill, we can't even afford medical treatment," one of the workers said in a video message. The stranded workers have been identified as Prem Tudu, Sibon Tudu, Somar Besra, Puran Tudu, Ramji Hansada, Virwa Hansda, Mahendra Hansda, and Bablu Soren from Bokaro; and Aghnu Soren, Ashok Soren, Chetlal Soren, Mahesh Marandi, Ramji Marandi, Lalchand Murmu, Phoolchand Murmu, Budhan Murmu, Jiblal Manjhi, Chhotan Baske, and Rajendra Kisku from Hazaribagh. Social activist Sikandar Ali, who works on migrant worker issues, has urged the government to take urgent diplomatic steps for their safe return. He said this is not an isolated incident, pointing out that in the past, several Jharkhand labourers lured by promises of high wages abroad have found themselves trapped in exploitative conditions, requiring lengthy negotiations for repatriation. Ali stressed the need for the government to create more employment opportunities within Jharkhand to curb the forced migration of workers. "Unless there are enough jobs here, labourers will continue to risk their lives and livelihoods in foreign lands," he said. Earlier, five migrant workers from Jharkhand were kidnapped in Niger, another West African country, with still no trace of them. TOKYO, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Higher temperatures are expected on Thursday in western Japan, including areas hit by recent torrential rain, according to the country's weather agency. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) said clear skies are expected to prevail over the region, driving temperatures up to 37 degrees in Saga, Hita in Oita Prefecture, Kurume in Fukuoka Prefecture and Osaka. A daytime high of 36 degrees Celsius is forecast in cities including Kumamoto, Yamaguchi and Kyoto, and 35 degrees Celsius in cities including Kochi and Nagoya, the JMA said. Weather officials said rain clouds could develop in some areas in the afternoon due to unstable atmospheric conditions in western and eastern Japan. Recent heavy rainfalls have loosened the ground, and riverbanks and revetments have been damaged in some places, the JMA said, urging people to take precautions against landslides, flooding in low-lying areas and swollen rivers. Chennai, Aug 14 : The Tamil Nadu Cabinet, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, on Thursday approved six major welfare initiatives for conservancy workers, a day after Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) staff staging protests outside Ripon Building were evicted and detained by police. The measures include free breakfast, medical treatment, enhanced insurance cover, housing, entrepreneurship subsidies, and expanded education support for workersa children. Acknowledging that conservancy work starts early and often leaves little time for breakfast, the government will provide free morning meals through urban local bodies. The scheme will begin in Chennai and later extend to other towns and cities. A new programme will also be launched to identify occupational hazards faced by conservancy workers and ensure they receive appropriate medical care. Insurance coverage for registered members of the Tamil Nadu Cleanliness Workers Welfare Board will be increased with an additional Rs 5 lakh accident cover, raising the total compensation for accidental death at work to Rs 10 lakh for the family. To promote economic self-reliance, workers will be eligible for a 35 per cent subsidy on project costs up to Rs 3.5 lakh for entrepreneurship ventures, along with a 6 per cent interest subsidy if dues are paid on time. The state will allocate Rs 10 crore annually for this purpose. On the education front, assistance already provided for higher studies will be expanded to cover hostel and book fees for workersa children. In housing, the government plans to build 30,000 houses in urban areas within three years for conservancy workers without homes, in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Housing Board and Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board. In rural areas, they will be prioritised under the aKalaignar Kanavu Illama scheme. Responding to questions on the workersa demands and recent detentions, Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu said related cases are pending before the Madras High Court and the labour tribunal. He noted that there have been around 12 rounds of talks involving ministers and the Mayor. Reiterating the governmentas willingness to continue dialogue, he appealed to the workers to return to duty, pointing to the welfare measures introduced by the Chief Minister as evidence of the administrationas commitment to their well-being. --IANS aal/dan New Delhi, Aug 14 : Citing that the India-US defence ties remain an important pillar of the bilateral relationship, India on Thursday said that a US defence policy team will soon be visiting New Delhi as both countries continue to strengthen their comprehensive global strategic partnership. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the defence partnership between both nations has strengthened across all domains and the defence procurement continues as per established procedures. Addressing a regular media briefing on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also stated that the joint India-US military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' is expected to take place later this month. "The India-US defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements, is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. This robust cooperation has strengthened across all domains. We are expecting a US defence policy team to be in Delhi in mid-August. The 21st edition of the joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas is also expected to take place later this month in Alaska. Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 Intersessional meeting at the working-level towards the end of this month," said Jaiswal. Reiterating that India-US partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges, the MEA spokesperson stated that the two nations share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. He expressed hope that the ties between two nations will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests. "India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges, as we had said earlier. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that the two countries have committed to, and we hope that the relationship will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests," he mentioned. The statement comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump announcing earlier this month an additional 25 per cent tariff hike, citing Indiaas continued imports of Russian crude oil as the primary reason. This comes on top of a previous 25 per cent tariff that came into effect on July 20. Responding sharply to the US move, the MEA had called the decision "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable", stating that Indiaas energy needs and strategic autonomy must be respected. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched a scathing attack on the Gandhi family and the Congress party on Thursday and accused them of 'manipulating' elections for decades through booth capturing, voter intimidation, and misuse of government machinery. Addressing a Press conference at the BJP headquarters in the national Capital, Shekhawat alleged that this "legacy of fraud and deceit" runs deep in the party's history. Citing the first General Elections in 1952, Shekhawat claimed that under then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's leadership, ballot boxes were tampered with, including incidents where nitric acid was poured into them and reports of this were carried by newspapers at the time. He further alleged that Pandit Nehru pressured the District Collector in Rampur to transfer votes from a rival candidate to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, ensuring his victory. Shekhawat also accused Congress and Communist leaders of colluding to defeat Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1952. Moving forward, he recalled how late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi allegedly misused government machinery during her elections charges that eventually led to her 1975 disqualification by the Allahabad High Court. On former Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi, Shekhawat claimed open booth capturing in Amethi, where voters were prevented from casting their ballots, forcing repolling amid alleged attempts to suppress it. He also brought up the 1987 Bihar "booth loot" incident, which he described as the first organised electoral robbery in the country. The BJP leader further accused the Congress of manipulating Jammu and Kashmir's polls for three decades. He pointed to the 1951 elections, where all Opposition candidates' nominations were rejected, allowing National Conference candidates to win uncontested allegedly with Congress backing. Similar manipulation, he claimed, occurred in 1962 and 1987. Shekhawat also reiterated the BJP's allegation that senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's name was added to the voter list before she became an Indian citizen. He accused Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi of aligning with "anti-India forces" during national celebrations. "The Congress has always tried to steal mandates be it through booth capturing, vote-buying, or intimidation and today they talk about saving the Constitution. The Gandhi family's political legacy is rooted in fraud and deceit," Shekhawat professed. Mandla : , Aug 14 (IANS) In a landmark initiative to bolster agricultural welfare, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Thursday transferred Rs 1,671 crore directly into the bank accounts of 83 lakh farmers across Madhya Pradesh. The disbursement, made via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), coincided with Lord Balram Jayanti -- a day deeply revered by farming communities for its symbolic connection to agricultural strength and prosperity. The event, held in Mandla district, was attended by thousands of farmers, local leaders, and officials. Addressing the gathering, CM Yadav said the DBT reflects the government's commitment to empowering farmers and ensuring timely, transparent financial support. "Lord Balram represents resilience and agricultural might. On this auspicious day, we renew our pledge to support our farmers, the true architects of our economy," he said. The funds were disbursed under the Kisan Kalyan Yojana, a flagship scheme that supplements the central government's PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi. Under this combined initiative, eligible farmers receive Rs 12,000 annually -- Rs 6,000 from the Centre and Rs 6,000 from the state, delivered in quarterly installments of Rs 3,000 each. The scheme aims to provide predictable income support to farmers for purchasing seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs. The funds are transferred directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts through the DBT system, ensuring transparency and eliminating delays. To qualify, farmers must complete e-KYC and maintain updated land records. The initiative not only strengthens rural livelihoods but also reduces dependence on informal credit sources, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices and long-term economic resilience. The scheme emphasised that the DBT mechanism eliminates middlemen and ensures that benefits reach farmers directly. This Rs 1,671 crore transfer marks one of the largest single-day financial distributions in the state's history and is expected to significantly ease pre-sowing financial pressures. The programme also featured cultural performances and exhibitions showcasing local agricultural innovations. With this initiative, Madhya Pradesh continues to lead in farmer welfare and digital governance, blending tradition with technology to deliver impactful results. The celebration of Lord Balram Jayanti thus became not only a cultural occasion but also a milestone in the state's journey toward inclusive and responsive agricultural development. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The Congress on Thursday launched a blistering attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging large-scale electoral fraud during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a press conference at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters, Congress communication department chairperson Pawan Khera claimed that the recent revelations by BJP MP Anurag Thakur have exposed a "criminal conspiracy" involving fake voters. Khera further accused the ECI of enabling electoral fraud through multiple voter identities and fake voter lists, stating that "one face had many names, many addresses, and many votes." Khera referred to Thakur's August 13 press conference, where the BJP leader presented data from six Lok Sabha constituencies including Rae Bareli and Amethi allegedly proving the presence of fake voters. Khera sarcastically thanked Thakur for "proving the Congress right", noting that while it took the Congress six months to gather paper data for just one Assembly segment (Mahadevapura), the BJP allegedly received electronic data for six entire Lok Sabha seats in just six days. "If this is not collusion, then what is?" Khera asked. "We are demanding that Anurag Thakur hand over the same data to us. If fake voters determined the outcome of the 2024 elections, then why not that election must be declared null and void." He alleged irregularities in Varanasi Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency. Khera claimed that if 93,000 fake votes were removed, Congress candidate Priyanka Gandhi would have won by over five lakh votes. He cited instances like the case of "Rajkamal Das" in Varanasi, who, as per voter records, had 45 children calling it "a symbol of Modi's victory model". Responding to questions about whether Congress MPs would resign in protest, Khera dismissed the idea. "Once the Lok Sabha is nullified, resignations are irrelevant. Ask them to dissolve Parliament." Khera also slammed the ECI for its alleged double standards, questioning why Rahul Gandhi was immediately served a notice after his press conference on August 7, while Anurag Thakur faced no such scrutiny despite revealing what Khera called "criminal evidence". He alleged that the ECI has been selectively aiding the ruling party, denying opposition access to electronic voter lists. Refuting BJP claims about Sonia Gandhi's name being added to voter lists in 1980, Khera pointed out that it was under a Janata Party government at the time. "They dig up 45-year-old files but fail to answer today's questions," he said. Congress reiterated its demand for the complete nullification of the 2024 general election and a public release of all electronic voter lists, especially for Varanasi. Shillong, Aug 14 : Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Thursday said that the country's hard-earned freedom must always remind citizens of the sacrifices made by its leaders, whose efforts have ensured Independence. He said, "Our freedom is hard-earned and we should always be reminded of the sacrifices of our leaders, for whom we live an independent life today." While attending a play staged on the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the auditorium of the Directorate General of Assam Rifles, Laitkor, Shillong, the Chief Minister remarked that witnessing such a play on the eve of the 79th Independence Day of India makes it even more meaningful. "Plays can bring history to life, making it more engaging, especially for the youth," he said and added, "Let us draw inspiration from the indomitable spirit of Subhas Chandra Bose." The Chief Minister said that the stories of our freedom heroes and their lives should be portrayed to educate today's youth on the sacrifices they made for the nation. In a post on the social media platform X, he posted, "The fearless spirit of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose still inspires us all. The sacrifices and contributions of our freedom heroes remind us that our freedom was hard-earned. We must keep sharing their stories so the next generation never forgets their sacrifice." The play titled 'Rashtraputra' aimed to build character and patriotism among the youth using theatre to bring to life the struggles and ideals of India's national heroes. The play not only serves as a tribute to the life, legacy and contribution of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose but also preserves the essence of India's history, inspiring youth, instilling patriotism and fostering a sense of national unity and shared heritage. Meanwhile, ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebration, security measures have been further tightened with special attention given along the international border in the region. Jaipur, Aug 14 : Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Thursday visited the Border Security Force's (BSF) Kodewala outpost at Khajuwala in Bikaner ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. Extending his greetings to BSF personnel, the Chief Minister praised their unwavering dedication, describing them as "guardians of the nation's frontiers who serve with indomitable valor, courage, and strength" in all terrains -- from snowy valleys to hot deserts. CM Sharma highlighted that BSF is one of the largest and most disciplined border guarding forces in the world, dedicated to safeguarding the nation while combating crimes such as smuggling and infiltration. He assured that the Rajasthan government remains committed to providing necessary facilities to BSF personnel and their families. Addressing the jawans, he recalled BSF's historic role in defending India's borders since its inception on December 1, 1965, including its outstanding performance during the 1971 India-Pakistan war and its success in eliminating terrorists under Operation Sindoor. The Chief Minister lauded BSF's social initiatives, including awareness campaigns on the ill effects of drugs, eradicating social evils, and encouraging local youth to join the force. He also praised their recent environmental efforts, notably planting 6.5 lakh saplings in the desert to improve the ecosystem. Drawing inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaigns, CM Sharma shared that the state government has launched Mission Hariyalo Rajasthan. This year alone, 9.12 crore saplings have been planted against the target of 10 crore. CM Sharma acknowledged the Prime Minister's concrete steps towards the modernisation and self-reliance of India's paramilitary forces, strengthening infrastructure and connectivity in border areas. He emphasised that women personnel in BSF are contributing with equal dedication alongside their male counterparts. During the visit, the Chief Minister observed the India-Pakistan border through binoculars, inspected the anti-drone system and defence equipment, and interacted with soldiers and officers. He distributed fruits to personnel and received a Raksha Sutra from women guards as a symbol of mutual respect and protection. Union Minister of State for Law and Justice (Independent Charge) Arjun Ram Meghwal, Director General of Police Rajiv Sharma, Inspector General of BSF (Rajasthan Frontier) ML Garg, MLA Dr. Vishwanath Meghwal, along with senior officers, public representatives, and BSF personnel, were present on the occasion. Mandla, Aug 14 : In a major boost to tribal agriculture, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that the Madhya Pradesh government will begin procuring Kodo (ditch millet) and Kutki (little millet) at Minimum Support Price (MSP) from the current season. The announcement was made during a state-level programme in Mandla to mark Lord Balram Jayanti, where the Chief Minister also transferred Rs 1,671 crore to 83 lakh farmers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Kodo and Kutki are traditional millets cultivated extensively in tribal regions like Mandla, Dindori, and Balaghat. These coarse grains are known for their resilience in dry conditions and high nutritional value. Until now, farmers growing these millets had no access to assured procurement, leaving them vulnerable to market fluctuations. Responding to this long-standing demand, the Chief Minister had earlier urged the Union government to grant MSP parity with Ragi, another millet. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan accepted the proposal, setting the MSP for Kodo and Kutki at Rs 4,290 per quintal. The procurement decision is expected to benefit thousands of tribal farmers, encouraging millet cultivation under the national 'Shri Anna' initiative, which promotes indigenous grains for food security and climate resilience. CM Yadav further emphasised Madhya Pradesh's leadership in irrigation reforms, citing the success of pressurised pipe systems under the 'More Crop, Per Drop' initiative. He contrasted this with the previous Congress government, which he claimed had only managed to bring 7 lakh hectares under irrigation, compared to the BJP-led government's achievement of 44 lakh hectares, including 7 lakh hectares added in the last few months alone. The twin announcements - millet procurement and DBT transfer - signal a strategic push toward inclusive, sustainable, and tech-enabled agricultural development in Madhya Pradesh. Mandla is a culturally rich district located in the eastern part of Madhya Pradesh, nestled in the lush Narmada Valley. Surrounded by the Satpura and Vindhya ranges, the city is encircled on three sides by the sacred Narmada River. Historically, Mandla was the capital of the Gondwana Kingdom and retains remnants of its regal past, including the Ramnagar Fort and ancient temples like the Chausath Yogini Temple. The region is also known for its tribal heritage, vibrant festivals, and proximity to Kanha National Park, one of India's premier tiger reserves. New Delhi, Aug 14 : In a first, the security arrangements around Red Fort ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address have involved a "photo-based census" of about 35,000 residents of the Walled City to check the presence of unauthorised people in the sensitive zone, a Delhi Police official said on Thursday. New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) In a first, the security arrangements around Red Fort ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day address have involved a "photo-based census" of about 35,000 residents of the Walled City to check the presence of unauthorised people in the sensitive zone, a Delhi Police official said on Thursday. Using artificial intelligence and physical verification to confirm the identity of area residents and their movement, the police are using a mobile app called e-Parikshan, on which officers are updating details of residents after going door-to-door to take photographs. Joint Commissioner of Police (Central Range) Madhur Verma said, "This year, for the first time, Delhi Police is compiling a photo-based record of about 35,000 people living around the Red Fort." The North and Central districts' staff have together conducted the "photo-based census" of these 35,000 people, he said. Verma said those included in the census include residents living within an 800-metre radius of the Red Fort. "If any person from outside Delhi is found in this area, their data is recorded in the app and verified with the respective state. This is the first time that photographs have been taken while registering such information," he said. Joint CP Verma said that apart from the photo census, several other security measures have been taken, which involve the use of AI tools. Data on criminals from various security agencies has been integrated into facial recognition cameras (FRC) so that any suspicious person approaching the high security area on August 15 can be identified immediately, he said. In addition, around 20,000 security personnel - including those from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces - have been deployed in the area. According to the police, security personnel will be stationed in all high-rise buildings around the Red Fort and at windows facing the monument, while CCTV cameras will be used to monitor the entire area. Security has also been beefed up at railway stations. 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." At the national level, the Intelligence Bureau has issued a warning that some terror groups may try and strike in various parts of the country. However, this time around, the highest threat perception is from Bangladesh, and terror could make its way through the eastern border, the IB has warned. Since the focus is very high on the India-Pakistan border following the Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) would be focusing on the eastern front. Intelligence assessments say that the ISI would want a Bangladesh-based group to carry out a spectacular attack, said the IB. Patna, Aug 14 : Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai on Thursday took a sharp dig at RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, claiming that the Congress has rejected him and made it clear that the people will decide the Chief Minister. Speaking to reporters in Patna, Rai said the people of Bihar have already turned away from the Congress, RJD, and Left parties. "Now the RJD-Congress government will never come to power in Bihar. They will be wiped out in the 2025 elections," he asserted. Describing Yadav as "nepotistic", "corrupt" and "greedy", Rai alleged that despite repeated "contempt" and "insult" from the Congress, the RJD leader continues to ally with them for the "greed of power" and is singing the bhajans of the Congress. "Tejashwi Yadav has lost respect. Bihar now wants development, and an NDA government will be formed here under the leadership of Nitish Kumar," he said. The BJP leader also touched upon historical issues, stating that "Nehru's stubbornness and Jinnah's jinn" were responsible for the partition of India, which Mahatma Gandhi opposed. "The partition happened due to appeasement, discrimination, and religious hatred. Hindus and Sikhs were driven out of Pakistan, and the honour of mothers and sisters was trampled. A large number of people were killed. Even after this, Congress says 'forget the partition,'" he remarked. Speaking on the ongoing Tiranga Yatra, Rai said, "We are remembering the horror of partition. If someone now wants to appease and create a threat to the integrity of the country, it will not work. The country will not tolerate such people. RJD and Congress do not even recognise the country for the sake of power." The potshots between NDA leaders and Tejashwi Yadav have been intensifying in the run-up to the Bihar Assembly Election 2025. The RJD leader has exposed the dual EPIC cards of Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, LJPRV MP Veena Devi, JDU MLC Dinesh Singh and Muzaffarpur mayor Nirmala Devi. Even Tejashwi Yadav's dual EPIC numbers also appeared in the public domain. SEOUL, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Kim Keon-hee, wife of South Korea's former ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol, on Thursday arrived at a special counsel's office to be questioned over corruption allegations involving the presidential couple. A prison van carrying Kim arrived at the office in central Seoul at around 9:53 a.m. local time (0053 GMT) from the Seoul Southern Detention Center in southwestern Seoul, a live broadcast showed. Kim has been detained since a Seoul court issued a detention warrant against her on Tuesday night, requested by independent counsel Min Joong-ki, leading the investigation into the corruption charges. It marked the first time in the country's constitutional history that a presidential couple was simultaneously brought into custody. Yoon has been held at a separate detention center since July 10 on insurrection charges over his short-lived martial law imposition last December. Kim was suspected of participating in a stock price manipulation from 2009 to 2012, interfering with the nomination of candidates in the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and the 2024 general elections, and receiving luxury gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors. New Delhi, Aug 14 : In fresh action in a Rs 1,400-crore bank fraud, the ED has attached immovable properties, including plant and machinery in Haryana and Rajasthan, worth Rs 35 crore belonging to erstwhile company Kwality Limited, an official said on Thursday. The provisionally-attached properties comprise of land along with plant and machinery in Nuh, Haryana; land along with plant and machinery in Dausa, Rajasthan; and advances towards purchase of industrial land and residential plots in Mohali, the official said. The attached properties belong to then promoters Sidhant Gupta and Sanjay Dhingra of erstwhile Kwality Limited through their family members or companies controlled by them, said the official in a statement. The ED had earlier conducted search operations in 15 locations connected with the erstwhile promoters of Kwality Limited and seized several properties worth crores of rupees including cash amounting to Rs 1.3 crore. Evidence related to assets and bank accounts held through several shell companies by the promoters were also seized, in addition to a Provisional Attachment Order issued earlier for Rs 450 crore. The ED initiated investigations in the fraud on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI, New Delhi, against Gupta and Dhingra of erstwhile Kwality Limited for cheating the banks. Kwality Limited, was engaged in processing, and trading of milk, ice creams and various dairy products. The FIR alleged that Kwality Limited through the erstwhile directors indulged in falsification and fabrication of books of accounts by misrepresentation of sales, purchases, debtors and creditors and thereby cheated the consortium of banks. As per the FIR, the bank fraud committed is to the tune of Rs 1,400.62 crore. The federal agencyas investigation revealed that the then promoters/directors fudged the books of accounts to show higher sales and debtors. Huge amounts of trading (sales/purchase) were made without actual physical deliveries or receipt of the goods at factory premises, the statement said. It was also noticed that sham companies/firms operated through implanted/dummy owners were used to divert the bank funds, it said. The funds diverted through the stated modus operandi were circulated, layered so as to conceal their origin and routed to different accounts on the instructions of the promoters for purposes not sanctioned by the banks, the ED said. New Delhi, Aug 14 : India on Thursday said that it has raised concerns over recent incidents of violence against Indian nationals with the Irish authorities in Dublin, as well as with the Embassy of Ireland in New Delhi. It stated that the Indian Embassy in Dublin is in touch with the victims and the community members, providing all possible assistance. On the issue of violence in Canada and the recent harassment of an Indian couple, India asserted that it takes the safety and security of Indian nationals very seriously and will engage with local authorities whenever any security concerns arise. aThere have been several cases of violence against Indian nationals in Ireland, as you would have seen in various reports. We have strongly raised this matter with the Irish authorities in Dublin as well as with the Embassy here. We note that both the President of Ireland and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have publicly condemned these deplorable acts of violence. Our Embassy in Dublin is in touch with the victims. They are also in touch with our community members and extending all possible support. We have issued an advisory for Indian nationals residing in Ireland. We hope that the issues will settle," said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal while addressing a regular media briefing in New Delhi. Regarding Canada, he said, "As far as the safety and security of our nationals are concerned, we take them very seriously. Our mission, as well as our consulates, is in close touch with the community members. And whenever there is any issue which needs to be flagged as far as security is concerned, we will take them to local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action". Earlier this week, Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris strongly condemned the "despicable acts of violence and racism" against the Indian community in the country over the past few weeks, while at the same time, lauding their "positive contribution" to the second biggest island in the British Isles archipelago. Harris made the statement after meeting representatives of the Indian community in Dublin. "Today, I met representatives of Irelandas Indian community. I completely condemn the despicable acts of violence and racism that we have seen against some members of the Indian community in recent weeks. I want to thank the Indian community for their very positive contribution to Ireland," he posted on X after the meeting on August 11. The meeting took place after an Indian national was violently assaulted in Tallaght - a southwestern outer suburb of Dublin - on July 26. Following the incident, the Indian Embassy in Ireland said that it was in touch with the victim and his family and providing all the assistance. Recently, the Embassy of India in Ireland also issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to take reasonable precautions for their security and avoid deserted areas, especially at odd hours. On the other hand, in Canada, a widely circulated video showed a group of young Canadian men hurling racial abuses and threats at an Indian couple in a parking lot in Peterborough, Ontario. The incident sparked outrage, with many expressing concern over rising violence against Indian nationals in Canada. The incident unfolded on July 29 at the Lansdowne Place Mall parking lot, as confirmed by the Canadian police. In a statement, the Peterborough Police Service said it has taken one individual into custody in connection with the incident. "On Friday, August 8, 2025, officers began an investigation into the incident, which happened on July 29, 2025. The investigation included viewing videos, some of which were circulating on social media, and that included hate-based language," it stated. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Thursday hailed the Supreme Court's ruling on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar as a "massive victory for democracy" and a strong message to those who sought to "distort the electoral process." New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) Congress general secretary KC Venugopal on Thursday hailed the Supreme Court's ruling on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar as a "massive victory for democracy" and a strong message to those who sought to "distort the electoral process." Reacting to the verdict, Venugopal, one of the petitioners in the case, said the apex court's directions would significantly enhance transparency in the SIR process and protect the voting rights of millions. "The Court has ordered that machine-readable electoral rolls be made available - in line with one of the central demands of Rahul ji's press conference," he said in a post on X. The Supreme Court also directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to swiftly publish details of the 65 lakh names deleted during the SIR in Bihar. Venugopal termed this a crucial step in "bringing much-needed transparency" to the exercise. In a move welcomed by the Congress, the court also directed the ECI to specifically add the Aadhaar Card to its list of 11 documents, which have been specified as acceptable documents. On this, Venugopal stressed that in a state like Bihar, Aadhaar is "the most widely held document by the poor and marginalised," making its inclusion vital for preventing disenfranchisement. Calling the verdict "an important first step" in the battle against what he described as the "draconian and disastrous SIR process," Venugopal accused the poll panel of "malpractices and complicity in vote rigging." He vowed that the opposition's campaign to expose these issues would continue "with renewed vigour." The Congress and other opposition parties have repeatedly attacked the ECI over the SIR in Bihar, alleging large-scale and arbitrary deletions of voters, particularly from weaker sections of society. The SIR, which is meant to clean up electoral rolls, became a flashpoint in the state after reports of mass deletions emerged last month. New Delhi, Aug 14 : As the BJP maintains that the Supreme Court is giving the Election Commission a clean chit while the Opposition continues questioning its functioning, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha on Thursday said that the questions are being raised about the poll panel, but the answers are coming from the ruling party. Speaking to IANS, Manoj Jha contended: "It is only said to give statements in a hurry. They (the BJP) should refrain from such remarks. They are making statements without waiting for the process to conclude. The dead people are coming back in the votersa list, data is not being provided, and file images are being used. Wonderful a" now the ECI is so weak that it has given the responsibility of defending it to the BJP. This relationship between the two is dangerous." "The question is on the functionality of the ECI, and the answer is being given by the BJP. The BJP has played an important role in the loss of credibility of the ECI," he added. On the Supreme Court has not yet declared the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) conducted by the Election Commission unconstitutional, Jha said: "Those are only remarks. Donat pre-empt anything. Letas wait for the verdict." Asked whether he has faith in the Supreme Court or feels the apex court is doing a favour, he replied: "No, I think itas better to keep the Supreme Court above such remarks. It is the only ray of hope in the dark. It would be better if we do not drag the top court into these allegations." Jha also reacted to the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhias announcement of a aVote Adhikar Yatraa starting from Biharas Rohtas district on August 17 to protest against the way the ongoing SIR of electoral rolls is being conducted in the state. "Have you visited Bihar recently? Whoever advised the SIR has written a script to remove the BJP from there. Every voter now has the question: aVote Chor, Gaddi Chora," he said. On whether the SIR should be cancelled, Jha said: "The matter is in the Supreme Court, so no statement should be made on that. But I would like to say again that our ideal was the first Chief Election Commissioner, Sukumar Sen. I think the BJP is functioning on WhatsApp knowledge and may not even know about him. He should be our ideal, not the Election Commission of Bangladesh." Amidst the Oppositionas strong resistance to the SIR drive and calls for poll boycott in Bihar, Jha on Wednesday took a sarcastic swipe at the Election Commission, stating that it should not take inspiration from its Bangladeshi counterpart. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Pakistan have scored a diplomatic victory after the U.S. labelled the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a terrorist organisation. The Majeed Brigade, too, was added as an alias of the BLA's previous Specially Designated Global Terrorist classification. New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) Pakistan have scored a diplomatic victory after the U.S. labelled the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a terrorist organisation. The Majeed Brigade, too, was added as an alias of the BLAas previous Specially Designated Global Terrorist classification. While Pakistan is upbeat about the move, analysts in India say that this could only go on to worsen the problem for Islamabad. While incidents of violence have gone up in Balochistan, the situation is no different in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Pakistan has been locked in a fierce battle with a separatist insurgency in the mineral-rich Balochistan. The BLA has been fighting for an independent Balochistan and has accused Pakistan of forced resource exploitation. Now, with the terror tag and Field Marshal Asim Munir boasting about it, the BLA is likely to get more aggressive. Jamie Ulema-Islam senator Kamran Murtaza said that the situation in Balochistan has gone from bad to worse. There has been no internet for the last couple of weeks, and the security situation has worsened. With the threat of more attacks in Balochistan, the Pakistan government has denied the region of internet, water and electricity. Indian Intelligence agencies say that the heat is on the Pakistan army. Groups within Balochistan and PoK are going to get more aggressive, and the situation is going to be nothing but a mess. The US designation will only make the BLA more aggressive, and this will put the Pakistan military in a spot of bother. Munir has felt that getting a minerals deal with the US and then having the BLA designated may have been a masterstroke. However, according to the Indian agencies, the situation is going to get worse, and if the US goes through with the deal will have a BLA problem, just like how the Chinese did. The situation for Pakistan is no different in PoK. The people have started complaining of utter neglect and have even taken to the streets to protest against the Pakistan establishment. This week, the Pakistan Army had a tough time quelling a huge gathering of people who were seeking freedom from Pakistan. The people of PoK have long been complaining about a lack of jobs, infrastructure and other basic facilities. Hence, they decided to stage a freedom march, following which the army had to intervene when the situation turned violent. Indian officials say that Pakistan faces similar problems both in Balochistan and PoK. They treat the people of these regions with utter contempt. While they dig out all the resources from these regions, nothing reaches the locals. It is all diverted to the main cities in Pakistan. Worse, the high levels of corruption within the Pakistan Army and the atrocities that they have committed on the people of these regions have also added to the anger. Like the people of Balochistan, the residents of PoK have been complaining that all the minerals and hydro power in their region do not reach them. It is those in the Punjab province who benefit from this, while the locals remain in shambles. The strategy in both regions by the Pakistan administration is the same. They want the two regions to remain backward so that they can maintain a grip over the people. It worked for them for some time, but the anger is out in the open. While in Balochistan, the Pakistan Army have been given a bloody nose on numerous occasions, in PoK, the anger is out on the streets and the situation could turn extremely violent soon. Mumbai, Aug 14 : Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday said that Maharashtra will play a pivotal role in achieving the dream of a 'Viksit Bharat'. He exhorted the people to join hands to contribute to the nation's progress and ensure that the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice are cherished. He greeted the people of Maharashtra on the eve of Independence Day. In his message, the Governor said, "Maharashtra has had a rich legacy of seers and social reformers who have guided our society on the path of righteousness, justice, and equality. Since attaining Independence, Maharashtra has made remarkable strides in socio-economic development. Our state has been at the forefront of industrial development, education, agriculture and culture." "On the auspicious occasion of the 79th Independence Day, I extend my heartiest greetings to all the citizens of Maharashtra. This day reminds us of the sacrifices made by numerous known and unknown freedom fighters, revolutionaries and ordinary citizens to secure Independence," said the Governor. The Governor will hoist the National flag on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day at Council Hall, Pune at 9.05 A.M. on Friday. He will host the traditional Independence Day reception for the invitees on the lawns of Raj Bhavan, Pune, in the evening. Earlier, the Governor said that the state is a preferred destination for Foreign Direct Investment and it contributes over 14 per cent to the country's total GDP, being one of the leading industrial states in India. The government is also working to build an inclusive, progressive and developed Maharashtra by taking all communities together. He said that at the World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland in January 2025, the government signed MoUs worth approximately Rs 15.72 lakh crore of investment with 63 national and international companies. This will generate more than 15 lakh employment opportunities in the state. Further, the government has planned to disburse the Investment Promotion Subsidy of about Rs 5,000 crore to different industries in the state to attract investments, foster industrial growth and generate employment opportunities. He further stated that the state government through its undertaking Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation has decided to allot industrial plots of approximately 3,500 acres to support and encourage industrialisation in the state. Recognising the growing demand for industrial land, 10,000 acres of land will be notified for industrial purposes. The government will develop 10 Integrated Industrial Parks and Integrated Logistics Parks to enhance industrial growth, improve supply chain efficiency and create a world-class business ecosystem. The government has cleared the launch of the 'Maharashtra Technical Textiles Mission' to strengthen and expand the state's textile sector. Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to launch such a mission aligned with the Centre's 'National Technical Textiles Mission', reinforcing its leadership in the textile industry, said the Governor. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday rejected the recent US human rights report, terming it as "a mix of misrepresentations, and one-sided projections" that showcase a poor understanding of India's democratic framework, pluralistic society, and robust institutional mechanisms for protecting human rights. "As we have always maintained, these reports are a mix of imputations, misrepresentations, and one-sided projections that demonstrate a poor understanding of India's democratic framework, pluralistic society, and robust institutional mechanisms for protecting human rights. We do not attach any credence to such biased assessments. We remain focused on advancing the human rights of our people through inclusive governance and development," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a weekly media briefing. Earlier this week, the US State Department, in its '2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices', claimed that the Indian government took "minimal steps" to identify and punish officials who committed human rights abuses. In March, India had rejected a report of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), stating that it continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments. "We have seen the recently released 2025 Annual Report of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which once again continues its pattern of issuing biased and politically motivated assessments. The USCIRF's persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India's vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom," the MEA spokesperson had said while responding to media queries. "India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of Indiaas pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities. Such efforts to undermine India's standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern," Jaiswal said in March. It is not for the first time that India had slammed the USCIRF, the US federal government agency which monitors the universal right to Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) abroad and makes policy recommendations to the country's President, Secretary of State and US Congress. Last October, while responding to media queries regarding the 'Country Update' on India in the USCIRF report, the MEA had made it clear that New Delhi's views on the agency are well known. Bengaluru, Aug 14 : Commenting on the cancellation of bail and arrest of Kannada actor Darshan and other accused in connection with the fan murder case, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the verdict proved that no one is above the law in the country. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Thursday, Parameshwara said, "In this country, no one is above the law. The law of the land should be respected by everyone. No matter how big you are, the law must be respected. In this context, the Supreme Court has overturned the High Court's verdict in the fan murder case. The Apex Court ruled that the decision to grant bail was not correct, and this verdict must be respected." "There are provisions in the law for them to continue their legal fight. They can pursue their case in court. The law of this country provides that opportunity," he added. When asked about the government filing an appeal against the bail order, Parameshwara said, "We have to follow the law, and the Department of Law has done the same in this matter. The Supreme Court has upheld it. We need to respect it." On the Supreme Court expressing unhappiness over the luxury facilities given to the accused inside prison, he said, "In this regard, our Prison DGP would have received directions. When the court has made these observations, they will also work diligently." The decision regarding shifting the accused to specific jails would be made by the prison authorities, and the government will not give any directions, he added. Hours after the Supreme Court cancelled bail, the Karnataka Police arrested actor Darshan, his partner Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons from Bengaluru and Chitradurga district. The accused will be produced before the judge at his residence after their medical tests. Darshan was arrested from his wife's flat, and the prime accused, Pavithra Gowda, was arrested from her residence. Jagadish alias Jagga (A6), Anukumar alias Anu (A7), Nagaraju alias Naga (A12), Pradosh (A14) and Laxman (A13), all accused, have also been arrested. In a major development, the Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of Kannada actor Darshan in connection with the fan murder case. The bench also ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. The court has similarly cancelled the bail of Darshan's partner, Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict. A bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Calling it a landmark judgement, the bench directed authorities to distribute copies of the verdict to all High Courts and state governments. The court noted that the accused had been given "five-star" treatment in jail and said that the concerned jail superintendent should have been suspended. "If any photo or evidence emerges showing the accused sitting in the jail lawns and smoking, action will be initiated against the jail authorities, prison officials, and the state government," the bench warned. It can be recalled that Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were initially arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The Meghalaya government has urged the Union Home Ministry to convince Bangladesh to grant permission to erect border fencing closer to the international boundary. This would help secure a 40-kilometre unfenced stretch without leaving the village outside the fenced area. Indiaas fencing with Bangladesh has always been a sore spot. In January, the Foreign Ministry of Bangladesh had summoned the Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka and conveyed Dhakaas deep concern over the attempts to construct barbed wire fencing. India made it clear that it had followed all protocols and agreements between the two governments. India and Bangladesh share a 4,096.7-kilometre-long border. India began fencing in 1986 due to rising concerns about migration. India had made it clear that the barbed wire fencing, border lighting, installation of technical devices and cattle fences are measures to secure the border against criminal activities. The issue has become even more contentious after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina regime. The current dispensation does not share good ties with India and has leaned more towards Pakistan. In this context, the fencing of the borders is an even more important issue now. Bangladesh argues that fining is a violation of the India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities, under which no defence structures can be built within 150 yards of the zero line of the international border. India, on the other hand, says that a single fence along the border does not classify as a defence structure. Dhaka, on the other hand, is worried that the smart fencing by India will be used to keep tabs on Bangladesh. While relations between India and Bangladesh have been cordial in recent years, the border has always been a troubled one. There have been large-scale illegal immigration, counterfeiting, arms smuggling and illegal cattle trade. Moreover, the dispensation under Muhammad Yunus will strongly object to the fencing since it is under the Jamaat-e-Islami, the outfit tasked to under the massive illegal migration drive. Any sort of guard along the border would mean they would not be able to run their racket. A strong border control means that those carrying out illegal activities will suffer. While infiltrators will be checked, cattle and drug smugglers will also find it hard to operate. Most of them have set up shop near the border, and an open border only means they get to do their business with ease. The Indian agencies say that under the current dispensation, Pakistan has full access to Bangladesh. Open borders mean that they can send in their terrorists with ease. Pakistan has also been reading modules in Bangladesh to hit the eastern states. After Yunus took over, a large number of terrorists belonging to the Ansarullah Bangla Team were released. Their whereabouts are unknown, and with open borders, it makes it easy for such elements to slip in. There have been protests against the fencing in recent times at Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat, and the Tin Bigha Corridor. The Jamaat is not just opposing the fencing, but also opposing the use of solar lights in the border areas. This is primarily because they find it easy to smuggle cattle if these checks are not in place. Currently, there are around 950 kilometres of the border which is yet to be fenced. Moreover, in many stretches, the fencing is either loose or broken. The concertina wire that has been used is rusted. However, in some areas, the fencing is challenging since it runs through rivers which constantly shift course. Mumbai, Aug 14 : Government PSU, the National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with several private sector banks to enhance the availability of credit for MSMEs under its MSME Credit facilitation programme, an official statement said. The MOUs also aim to enhance accessibility and affordability of the credit to MSMEs, an official statement said. The MOUs were signed with Axis Bank, Dhanlaxmi Bank, Karnataka Bank, AU Small Finance Bank, and IndusInd Bank, the release said. Union MSME Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi and MSME Secretary S.C.L. Das were also present on the occasion. "The MoUs were exchanged between NSIC's Director, Finance, Gaurav Gulati and senior officials from various banks," the release said. The collaboration aims to extend handholding support to MSMEs and help them link to the formal financial system. The MOU focuses on the banks to expand their outreach to deserving micro & small enterprises, and the arrangement is expected to be a force multiplier in the efforts of banks to reach the last mile, it added. This development aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent calls for the aVocal for Locala initiative. It encourages citizens and businesses to prioritise locally made products over imports to promote domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and boost the local economy. Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), since its inception, has sanctioned 53.85 crore loans amounting to over Rs 35.13 lakh crore. The PMMY provides collateral-free credit of up to Rs 20 lakh to micro and small enterprises, thereby enabling self-employment and income generation. More than 10 lakh micro and small enterprises (MSEs) have joined the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, and the total transaction value on GeM has reached around Rs 5.40 lakh crore in FY2024-25 NSIC, a PSU under the MSME Ministry, has been working to promote, aid and foster the growth of MSMEs since 1955 in India, and has been a frontrunner in bringing new initiatives for MSMEs and solving their challenges by facilitating through various schemes. BERLIN, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz hosted a series of virtual meetings with international partners on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. Joined by other European leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump, the talks aim to find a coordinated stance on the Ukraine crisis. The objective for the European leaders was to present a united front and convey their terms to Trump ahead of his meeting with Putin. EUROPEAN INTERESTS European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a post on X that the talks with Trump "strengthened the common ground for Ukraine" among Europe, the United States and NATO. Merz, standing alongside Zelensky in Berlin, stressed after the virtual meeting that fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests must be preserved in Alaska. It was the message conveyed to Trump during Wednesday's meeting, said Merz. He said Ukraine must have a seat at the table in any follow-up meetings and a ceasefire must be the start of negotiations. Ukraine is prepared to negotiate on territorial issues, but the "contact line" must be the starting point, Merz said, adding that a legal recognition of occupations is not up for debate. Multiple U.S. media outlets, citing anonymous sources familiar with the matter, reported that Trump told European leaders during the virtual meeting that he does not intend to discuss territory with Putin this Friday and that the United States could offer security guarantees to Ukraine under certain conditions. French President Emmanuel Macron said on Wednesday that "territorial issues concerning Ukraine can only be negotiated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky." Speaking to the press with European Council President Antonio Costa, Macron stressed that "the United States wants to achieve a ceasefire" in Ukraine and that "to date, no serious territorial exchange plan is on the table." He noted that Trump is also planning a "trilateral" meeting with Putin and Zelensky. Peace cannot be achieved without the parties directly involved, Russians and Ukrainians, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said on Wednesday, adding that the EU must participate in the negotiations. WORRIES GROW Security and political analysts across Europe offered a pessimistic outlook for the Alaska summit, citing possible risks. Peter Wijninga, a defense expert at the Dutch Hague Centre for Strategic Studies, warned that the Alaska summit, excluding both Ukraine and the EU, exposes deep divisions between Europe and the United States over the Ukraine crisis. European leaders fear that Trump could strike a deal possibly involving the annexation of parts of Ukrainian territory, which would directly violate the Ukrainian constitution, he said in an interview with Dutch public broadcaster NPO Radio. As the worry about a one-sided deal grows across Europe, the U.S. side has been downplaying the summit. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has relegated the summit to a "listening exercise" where Trump will get a "better understanding" of the situation. Neil Melvin, director of International Security at the Royal United Services Institute, noted that European leaders have been "relegated to the margins" ahead of the Alaska summit. "European leaders are able to inform Trump of their ideas, and the U.S. will brief them on the summit outcomes, but Europe is in the position that the Ukraine conflict outcomes are being negotiated over its head and the continent's leadership is essentially an observer," he added. GUARDED EXPECTATIONS European allies of Ukraine will have to wait and see what comes out of the meeting in Alaska. It seems that there is a lot of background work going on across the Atlantic and in Europe to have some input into Trump's discussions with Putin, said political scientist Stefan Wolff, a specialist in international security at the University of Birmingham. There are two possible deals Trump could make. A deal with Putin on a ceasefire for Ukraine or a deal resetting relations between Russia and the United States, said Wolff. "I think he is interested in both, but does not see them as mutually exclusive or mutually constitutive." Overall, Europe's expectations for a concrete breakthrough were low. Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard told Swedish Television late Tuesday that she was "not very optimistic" about the upcoming Alaska summit. "It is important that European interests are taken into account in the Trump-Putin meeting," she said. 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 at Wednesday's press conference. Kochi, Aug 14 : Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty on Thursday said the state government has taken serious note of allegations that a Class 5 student was locked in a dark room at a school in Ernakulam for coming late. "This incident of a Class 5 student being locked in a dark room at a school in Ernakulam has come to my notice and such behaviour from anyone will not be tolerated in any school across the state. No teacher or school management can do such a thing," warned Sivankutty. The incident reportedly came to light after complaints emerged that the boy had been confined to the dark room as punishment, allegedly for arriving late to school. "If a student arrives late, the teacher may advise them not to repeat it. But confining a child in a way that could affect their mental well-being is not acceptable," added Sivankutty, a former firebrand student leader. "Preliminary information suggests that the institution involved in the case is not a school following the state syllabus. The government has directed the Deputy Director of Education (DDE), Ernakulam, to conduct an enquiry into the incident and submit an urgent report. Further action will be taken once the report is received," added Sivankutty. "The Education Department has taken strict measures in recent years and this has reduced the occurrence of such incidents in state-run schools. However, the latest case highlights gaps in training of some teachers, particularly those in schools outside the state syllabus framework," said Sivankutty. When the father of the boy said his son was treated badly by the school authorities, they denied any wrongdoing. The authorities claim that the boy was not asked to remain outside the class, but he was asked to sit in another classroom. The probe is expected to determine whether the incident violated provisions of child protection laws, and if necessary, disciplinary action will be initiated against those found responsible. New Delhi, Aug 14 : Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his 'Sandesh to Soldiers' on the eve of India's 79th Independence Day, hailed Operation Sindoor as a "balanced military response" and a testament to the nation's shift towards modern, self-reliant defence capabilities. New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in his 'Sandesh to Soldiers' on the eve of India's 79th Independence Day, hailed Operation Sindoor as a "balanced military response" and a testament to the nation's shift towards modern, self-reliant defence capabilities. Singh said the operation, conducted under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, was a "shining example of precise and successful military strategy," integrating drone warfare, layered air defence, electronic warfare, and network-centric operations. "India is no longer dependent on foreign technology," he stressed, adding that the mission underscored the government's commitment to indigenous defence production. In a swift and targeted strike, nine terror training camps, including Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters, were destroyed without crossing the LoC or harming civilians. "We are tolerant, but when it comes to the safety of our people and dignity of our country, we face every challenge boldly," Singh said, vowing complete eradication of terrorism. Recalling the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Singh said Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev were fitting responses, also avenging past attacks on Parliament, Mumbai's Taj, and Amarnath pilgrims. He praised the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police for neutralising three top LeT commanders in Dachigam last month. Highlighting defence sector progress, the minister noted that domestic manufacturing now accounts for 65 per cent of needs, up from 30 per cent a decade ago, with annual production touching Rs 1.51 lakh crore and exports at a record Rs 23,622 crore. Targets for 2029 include Rs 3 lakh crore in production and Rs 50,000 crore in exports. Singh also lauded ongoing Armed Forces modernisation with platforms like INS Arihant, Rafale-Marine, and Prachand helicopters. On infrastructure, he pointed to 125 BRO projects, including Ladakh's Shinkun La tunnel, set to be the world's highest. Celebrating women's growing role in the military, he cited the NDA's first 17 women graduates and record-breaking naval voyages by women officers. He also urged youth to contribute to nation-building under initiatives like Digital India and Make in India. Extending Independence Day greetings, Singh expressed gratitude to soldiers, veterans, and their families, pledging continued welfare measures, and reaffirmed India's resolve for a secure, self-reliant future. New Delhi, Aug 14 : In her address to the nation ahead of the 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday showcased one of the government's flagship schemes Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), highlighting that access to basic facilities is the right of citizens. Referring to the change brought about in the lives of millions of people under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), a major initiative to improve the quality of life in cities. Launched on June 25, 2015, the Mission aimed to provide basic services such as water supply, sewerage, urban transport, and parks. She said under the Atal Mission sweeping changes have come about in the quality of life, including supply of tap water. Over the past 10 years, 2.03 crore tap connections and 1.50 crore sewer connections provided under AMRUT and AMRUT 2.0. According to the government data, 80.93 per cent of rural households out of the total 19.36 crore in the country are reported to have a tap water supply in their homes. Recently, Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna told Parliament that under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) Har Ghar Jal, around 12.43 crore additional rural households have been provided tap water connections till July 15, 2025, since the implementation of the Mission in August 2019. At the start of the Mission, only 3.23 crore (16.7 per cent) rural households were reported to have tap water connections, said the MoS. It was launched to enable every rural household in the country to have assured potable water, in adequate quantity of prescribed quality on a regular and long-term basis, through tap water connection, he said. Minister of State Somanna said to monitor outcomes, the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation undertakes an assessment of the functionality of household tap water connections provided under the Mission, through an independent third-party agency, based on standard statistical sampling. "During the Functionality Assessment 2022, it was found that 86 per cent of households (HHs) had working tap connections. Out of these, 85 per cent were getting water in adequate quantity, 80 per cent were getting water regularly as per the schedule of water supply for their piped water supply scheme, and 87 per cent of households were receiving water as per the prescribed water quality standards," said the MoS. Dubai, Aug 14 : India's general elections and the electoral process , often referred to as the largest democratic exercise on the planet, remains "one of the most trusted in the world" cited a report published in a leading English daily of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday. However, the term, it said, hardly does justice to the scale considering that approximately 980 million people were eligible to vote during the Lok Sabha elections held in 2024. Dubai, Aug 14 (IANS) India's general elections and the electoral process , often referred to as the largest democratic exercise on the planet, remains "one of the most trusted in the world" cited a report published in a leading English daily of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday. However, the term, it said, hardly does justice to the scale considering that approximately 980 million people were eligible to vote during the Lok Sabha elections held in 2024. The elections were conducted across a record one million-plus polling stations, guarded and staffed by over 15 million officials and staff, the Khaleej Times said in a report. The nationwide election process is conducted every five years with almost clockwork precision. "The institution at the heart of this mammoth operation is the Election Commission of India (ECI), an autonomous constitutional body that has earned international respect for its independence and efficiency. Established in 1950, it operates with a mandate enshrined in the Constitution, immune from political interference, and guided by a clear code of conduct," the report highlighted. It further stated: "Its credibility rests on a relentless commitment to fairness - from monitoring campaign finance to enforcing the Model Code of Conduct that governs political behaviour, the ECIas authority is both legal and moral. Working ceaselessly without fear or favour, it has a culture of accountability that has made Indiaas electoral process one of the most trusted in the world." India was the first nation to use mass electronic voting for the first time in the world way back in 1982. In the report, Former Chief Election Commissioner TS Krishnamurthy, under whose tenure EVMs were used extensively, stated, "EVMs are a matter of pride for India as they cannot lie, and I have no doubts about the credibility of the machines." Critics of technology in elections often highlight its vulnerabilities, Khaleej Times said in its report. However, India's use of technology has strengthened trust. Since 2004, India has used Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) across the nation, replacing the paper ballots that faced delays and manipulation. Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems were introduced enabling each voter to confirm their choice on a printed slip before it drops into a sealed box for possible cross-verification. Biometric voter ID systems, GPS tracking of poll parties, and live webcasting from sensitive booths were conducted to form a multilayered defence against fraud. Observers from the Commonwealth to the United Nations have praised Indiaas ability to blend scale with security, even as they lauded the election process for its transparency, peacefulness, inclusiveness, and accessibility. The most important feature of polls in India is their inclusivity, the report stated. The Election Commission of India ensures 100 per cent accessibility, creating polling stations in mountain hamlets, desert villages, and islands in the Sundarbans. Voters with disabilities, senior citizens, and those residing in remote conflict areas receive special facilities by ECI so that they can participate in the electoral process. "For countries seeking to strengthen democratic institutions, the Indian example offers a simple yet profound lesson: integrity is not an accident; it is the product of vigilance, inclusivity, and a culture that places the voter - every voter - at the centre," the report detailed. Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 14 : In a significant setback for Kerala Excise Commissioner and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M.R. Ajith Kumar, a court in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday rejected the Vigilance Department's report granting him a clean chit in an illegal assets case. Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 14 (IANS) In a significant setback for Kerala Excise Commissioner and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M.R. Ajith Kumar, a court in Thiruvananthapuram on Thursday rejected the Vigilance Departmentas report granting him a clean chit in an illegal assets case. The ruling could pave the way for further proceedings and potentially affect the prospects of Ajith Kumar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayanas most trusted police official, for promotion to the rank of DGP. The case stems from a petition filed by a person alleging that Ajith Kumar purchased land at Rs 70 lakh per cent in a posh Thiruvananthapuram area and is constructing a luxury residence using illicit funds. The petitioner also accused the officer of receiving political support from the Chief Ministeras Political Secretary, P. Sasi. The Vigilance Department, acting on a government directive, had earlier investigated the allegations and submitted a report exonerating the officer. The Vijayan government accepted the findings. However, the court, after examining the case diary, original investigation report, government orders, and witness statements, found grounds to dismiss the clean chit. During proceedings, the petitioner argued that the investigation was compromised because it was conducted by officers working under Ajith Kumaras authority. He further claimed that key allegations a" such as the purchase of land in the Pattom sub-registraras jurisdiction for Rs 33 lakh, the acquisition of a flat in Kawdiar for Rs 31 lakh, and its resale for Rs 65 lakh a" were not properly investigated. The court noted that the Vigilance SP had earlier submitted only a copy of the report without producing the original document, leading to doubts about the investigationas integrity. It directed that the complete, original report be placed before the court to address the petitioneras concerns. The case will now proceed further, potentially influencing both the officeras career trajectory and the governmentas handling of high-profile corruption allegations. Incidentally, it was the then Left-supported Independent legislator P.V. Anvar who first raised these allegations and approached both Vijayan and the CPI-M state Secretary about the manner in which Ajith Kumar was having a free run, but both of them refused to go forward with his complaint. This led to Anvar resigning his assembly seat, and in the consequent by-election, the Congress candidate won with a convincing margin. Incidentally, last week the Kerala High Court had slammed Ajith Kumar for riding on a tractor to reach the famed Sabarimala temple, which is a violation of the courtas directives. Dhaka, Aug 14 : In yet another case of mob violence in Bangladesh, two men were brutally beaten to death in Taraganj upazila area of Rangpur district on suspicion of theft with the widely circulating video of the incident on social media sparking massive outrage all over the world. The deceased, both family members, were identified as Ruplal Das, aged 40, of the Ghanirampur area in the upazila, and Pradip Das, aged 35, of Mithapukur upazila. The incident reportedly occurred over the weekend at the Burirhat High School grounds in Rangpur. Reports suggest that although police had arrived at the crime scene, they took no effective action and later left in fear. Later, by the time more vehicles carrying police and army personnel reached the spot, one of the victims, Ruplal, had already died, and most of the people involved in the violence fled, Bangladesh's leading daily Dhaka Tribune reported on Thursday. Citing eyewitnesses of the lynching incident, another Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo reported that 15 to 20 young men were at the forefront of the attack. The video captured Ruplal and Pradip surrounded by hundreds of people, mostly young men, as they were lying in a van in the middle of the school field. When police tried to disperse them, the mob grew hostile. As tension escalated, the police left the two men behind, who were already half-dead from the beating. After the police fled the scene, the mob again started brutally assaulting them with punches, kicks, sticks, and rods. At one point, Pradip Lal fell from the van to the ground. Additionally, four or five young men repeatedly kicked Rup Lal in the back to ensure he died, while some people from the mob shouted, "Give it, give it more." Pointing at Pradip Lal, one person said, "Give him some, too," prompting another man to strike him harder with a tree branch. According to the police, the victims were taken to Taraganj Upazila Health Complex, where physicians declared Ruplal dead on arrival. Subsequently, Pradip was transferred to Rangpur Medical College Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours on Sunday. Following the incident, Ruplal's wife, Bharati Rani, filed a murder case at Taraganj police station, accusing 500 to 700 individuals of involvement in the violent incident. So far police have reportedly arrested only four individuals from different areas, including Ebadat Hossain, from Balapur, Akhtarul Islam, and Rafiqul Islam from Burirhat, and Mizanur Rahman, from Rahimapur. Bangladesh has been gripped with numerous incidents of mob lynching and extreme lawlessness after the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government assumed power last year. Moscow: US President Donald Trump will meet his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the US Joint Military Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska on Friday. Putin has met five US presidents, including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Donald Trump. He is one of the successful statesmen in the world today. The West wanted Ukraine to be a Western bulwark on Russia's borders and the core element in this policy was NATO expansion eastwards. Russia made it unequivocally clear that this move was unacceptable to them. NATO took advantage of Russia's weakness just after the collapse of the Soviet Union, moving and encroaching steadily in Russia's near-abroad. For Putin, Ukraine is a key national interest and he has accused the US/West of taking Russia's "red lines" too lightly. Putin would like them to understand that, in the long run, Kyiv has to have a good working relationship with Moscow. Unwavering European support for Ukraine continues with Germany being the biggest backer in Europe with arms and ammunition and funds. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in Berlin on Wednesday and joined European leaders for talks with President Trump, who said that European leaders wanted "to see a deal done". With the notable exception of Hungary, the European leaders are nervous and reiterated that no decision should be taken without Ukraine and are trying to shape Trump's views before the Friday summit. Trump rated the meeting "a 10" and mentioned Russia would face "severe consequences" unless the war in Ukraine is stopped. According to Trump, if the Friday meeting produces results, he would try to organise a "quick second one" involving both Putin and Zelensky. Europe is demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine on its territorial integrity. European leaders have reaffirmed that territorial issues should only be discussed with participation of Ukraine. Zelensky travelled to the United Kingdom on Thursday to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Recognising the explicit threat from Russia, the NATO leaders who met in The Hague on June 24-25 agreed to raise a minimum of five per cent of GDP in defence and defence-related spending annually by 2035 on the central issue of Russia's ongoing war with Ukraine. Understandably, a weak Europe is in Russia's interest. The virtual call was the closest that nine European leaders, including Zelensky, could participate as the EU and none of the European leaders were invited. For Russia, eastern Ukraine is a "hidden treasure of minerals". Russia wants to maintain a land corridor to Crimea via southern Ukraine. In September 2022, Russia's Special Military Operation resulted in the annexation of the Donbass region in eastern Ukraine. Zelensky has reaffirmed that Ukraine would not give up the Donbass region in exchange for a ceasefire. President Putin detailed that Russia has not changed its June 2024 demands over Ukraine, which are: complete denazification, total demilitarization, alliance neutrality/non-aligned, and withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Additionally, rights and freedoms of Russian speakers will have to be ensured and that Crimea, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk are part of the Russian Federation. However, neither Kyiv nor Europe views these demands as viable. Further, Kyiv will have to inform Moscow officially that it would not join NATO and would remain neutral/non-aligned. Zelensky underscored that pressure must be exerted on Russia for the sake of a fair peace. As of today, Russia controls about 20 per cent of Ukrainian territory on the ground. Russian forces have penetrated near Dobropillya, using new drone innovations and tactics. In recent months, Russia's drone adaptations with repeater drones that extends the range of tactical drones and fibre-optic drones that are resistant to Electronic Warfare (EW) have enabled Russian forces to threaten Ukrainian Ground Lines of Communications (GLOCs). Along with drone adaptations, Russian strike and reconnaissance have achieved desired outcomes in Battlefield Air Interdiction (BAI). Russian forces have knocked out Ukrainian drone crews northwest of Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad (east of Pokrovsk). Huge losses have occurred on both sides. Ukraine, meanwhile, has discriminated against Russian speakers in the eastern region of the country. Russia is yet to achieve its objective of protecting Russian language speakers and Ukrainian Orthodox Church-UOC which is historically linked to the Russian Orthodox Church-ROC (Moscow Patriarchate). The UOC had declared its independence in May 2022 from the ROC-Moscow Patriarchate. However, Ukrainian authorities suspect UOC of collaborating with Russia. Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) was set up in January 2019 to neutralise the UOC. The American CIA built OCU and USAID funded it to finish UOC. For ROC, UOC was a victim of persecution and in need of external protection. One of the reasons President Putin invaded Ukraine was to protect UOC as Russiaas church. For Trumpists, UOC is the political tool for forcing Kyiv to make concessions to Moscow. Kyiv has been the cradle of Eastern-Slavic civilization. Kievan Rusa spread from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea from the Carpathians to the Volga. The modern nations of Belarus, Russia and Ukraine all claim Kievan Rusa as their cultural ancestors with Belarus and Russia deriving their names from it. Hence, Kyiv cannot fully escape Moscow's geopolitical reach. The White House observed that the face-to-face summit with Putin will be a "listening exercise for Trump". In fact, Moscow's demands from the US and NATO not to move eastward are strategic goals of Russian Foreign and Security Policy in Europe. The US/West needs to understand that Putin is an astonishing risk-taker. Trump expects to focus on ending the Russia-Ukraine war and is open to the idea of a "land-for-peace deal" to the much antipathy of Ukraine and its European partners. It is difficult to envisage the outcome of the summit due to conflicting interests and priorities. Beyond doubt, the outcome of the summit will re-politicise US-Europe relations, which cannot negate Russia's geopolitical significance and impact. (The writer is an expert on South Asia and Eurasia. He was formerly with Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. Views expressed are personal) Dhaka, Aug 14 : In an ongoing crackdown on the Bangladesh's Awami League party under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim regime, several party leaders were arrested by the Dhaka police on suspicion of planning anti-government events on August 15 which marks the 50th death anniversary of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The police also took into custody Aminur Rahman Selim, the Assistant Personal Secretary (APS) to former Health and Family Welfare Minister in the Awami League government Zahid Maleque, in connection with a case over an alleged attack on students and the public in Manikganj district, the local media reported on Thursday. Confirming the development, Manikganj Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) S M Aman Ullah said that eight people, including Selim, the former MP from Manikganj-3 constituency, were arrested in raids carried out at various places on Wednesday. Among the other arrested, Bangladeshas leading Bengali daily Jugantor reported, were Awami League leaders Mohammad Ali Chowdhury, Nurul Islam Nuru, Mosharraf Hossain, Mohammad Raju, Imran Mahmud Iran, Nizam Bepari and Azim Mia. According to OC Aman Ullah, they had been planning to carry out various anti-government programmes on August 15. He added that all of them were also accused in cases linked to alleged attacks on student protestors during last yearas July demonstration. Reports suggest that the accused will be presented before the court on Thursday, once the legal procedures are completed. Meanwhile, the Awami League on Thursday slammed the Yunus-led interim government for not commemorating the 50th death anniversary of Bangabandhu on Friday and for warning people against organising any event. The party had announced that it would observe August 15 as National Mourning Day, commemorating the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and several members of his family. It said that the "fascist" Yunus regime is stripping the people of their rights and freedom of speech by not allowing them to commemorate the death anniversary of the Father of the Nation. "15 August is National Mourning Day - a day of grief, heavy with the most heinous and brutal assassination in the history of human civilisation. On this day in 1975, the reactionary killers, enemies of humanity, assassinated Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman - the great leader of Bangladesh's liberation movement, the champion of the oppressed and deprived people of the world, the cherished figure of Bengalis for a thousand years, the eternal source of inspiration for the nation, the architect of an independent Bangladesh, and the Greatest Bengali of all time - along with most members of his family," read a statement issued by the Awami League. The Awami League called upon its allies, fraternal organisations, and various socio-cultural and political groups, both in the country and abroad, to observe National Mourning Day on Friday with due "dignity, respect, and love, in a solemn and grief-stricken atmosphere". Bhubaneswar, Aug 14 : In a forward-looking move towards smarter governance, the Odisha government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Centre for Effective Governance of Indian States (CEGIS) for the launch of a Decision Support System (DSS) for enabling data-driven governance backed by analytical evidence. The Odisha government, in an official statement, said that its partnership with CEGIS is aimed at achieving the goal of 'Viksit Odisha. It further added that the Non-profit organisation CEGIS signed a Non-financial MoU with a five-year commitment with a focus on institutionalising capacity building in Odisha. Currently, CEGIS Foundation is working with 5 GoI Institutions, including MoSPI, NITI Aayog, Capacity Building Commission, Karmayogi Bharat, and India Intellectual Property Office. The MoU was signed during a programme at the Chief Minister's Conference Hall, Lokaseva Bhawan, here in the presence of the Deputy Chief Minister, Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo. The Dy CM, in his address at the outset, welcomed the CEGIS team to the sacred soil of Odisha, a land rich in heritage, shaped by resilience, and driven by the aspirations of its people. He noted that this MoU signing with CEGIS is a significant step towards governance reforms in the State of Odisha. The DyCM stated that the signing of MoU with CEGIS marks the beginning of Odisha's transformative journeyone that places data, evidence, and outcomes at the heart of public service delivery. He claimed that the present Government is dedicated to serving the people of the State. "Our efforts over the past year in health, education, disaster management, livelihoods, and digital infrastructurehave aimed to ensure that every citizen receives effective, efficient, and equitable public services. Our solutions must become smarter, targeted, and more responsive. The partnership with CEGIS is an important enabler in this regard. Their approach, research and field experience complement Odisha's vision for 2036 and 2047 in strengthening our institutions and systems," Dy CM added. Deo also stated that over the next five years, this partnership will provide technical and analytical support across departmentshelping in policy decisions, optimising expenditure, and enhancing the delivery of public service across key sectors. He also thanked CEGIS for their commitment and cooperation in future to carry forward the vision of Viksit Odisha for the years 2036 and 2047. New Delhi, Aug 14 : The ECI on Thursday accepted three key suggestions from the Supreme Court over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar, agreeing to the addition of a list of non-included voters with reasons in the draft roll. For the convenience of citizens, the Election Commission of India (ECI) said that in addition to the list of deceased, voters at two places and permanently shifted given by BLOs to all political parties since 20 July, a list of non-included voters with reasons shall also be put in the draft roll. The list of non-included voters could be searched with the EPIC number, booth-wise, on the website of DEOs and the CEO, it said. The poll panel said those aggrieved can file their claim along with a copy of Aadhaar, a key second suggestion of the apex court. The ECI accepted the apex court's suggestion that those aggrieved can file claims along with a copy of Aadhaar. A source in the ECI said an aggrieved person can be defined as a person whose name is not present in the draft list (65 lakhs), and he or she can only file a claim, which has to be in Form 6 under the rules. The Form 6 already contains a column for Aadhaar. Earlier, during a hearing, the apex court directed the ECI to publish online the list of over 65 lakh voters proposed for deletion during SIR. However, citing ground reports and official documentation, ECI officials assert that the process has been far more transparent and collaborative than some Opposition voices suggest. The apex courtas directions include uploading the full list of deletions, stating reasons for each deletion, allowing claims with Aadhaar for identification (not citizenship), and displaying these lists at Panchayat and BDO offices. While the directives aim to enhance transparency, the ECI maintains that most of these steps were already in motion well before the courtas intervention. The Election Commission officials have stated that all political parties in Bihar were provided with the complete list of proposed deletions beginning July 20, 2025. This includes the names, reasons for proposed deletions a" ranging from death, permanent migration, untraceability, to duplicate entries a" and clear guidelines on filing objections. MADRID, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Record heatwaves have turned Europe into a sweltering sauna above 40 degrees Celsius as raging wildfires sweep many countries on high alert. The extreme summer heat has created favorable conditions for rampant wildfires, which have already killed several people, displaced thousands and forced firefighters to battle blazes across large parts of Europe. In France, a heatwave broke temperature records in the southwest, with maximums up to 12 degrees Celsius above normal, before spreading to the center-east and northeast of the country. "Often remarkable, even unprecedented maximum temperatures, often 12 degrees above normal levels, were reached this Monday," Meteo France said Tuesday in a press release. The intense heat, combined with dry winds and rare rainfall, has created ideal conditions for fueling wildfires, which have erupted across southern Europe and the Balkans. In Croatia, air temperature records were set in Sibenik, at 39.5 degrees, and Dubrovnik, at 38.9 degrees, while large forest fires raged along its coasts and ripped through neighboring countries in the Balkans. In Spain, for example, a lightning-sparked wildfire near Madrid killed one man, forced hundreds of residents to evacuate, and scorched about 1,000 hectares of land, while a second fire in the southern resort town of Tarifa prompted around 2,000 people to flee, and additional blazes in Zamora and Castilla y Leon forced hundreds more to leave. A fire map published on the website of national broadcaster RTVE shows widespread fire activities across the country, with orange and red indicators marking both active fires and affected zones. Authorities are requesting help from European partners as Spain faces its 10th consecutive day of a record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures peaking at 45 degrees. The country is ready to seek more help from European allies, such as more firefighters, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska was quoted by local media Cadena SER as saying on Wednesday. Meanwhile, wildfires continue to scorch northern Portugal, with more than 1,300 firefighters and 16 aircraft busy battling flames, one of which has been burning for 10 days. Large fires have also been roaring in northwestern Turkiye, Albania and Montenegro, where thick smoke blankets several towns. In Albania, one man died, while a Montenegrin soldier was killed during firefighting operations, and in Greece, wildfires have prompted emergency evacuations at multiple tourist destinations. Meteorologists attribute the extreme heat to a large high-pressure system drawing warm, dry air over the continent and expected to persist through at least Monday in many areas. According to data from the European Union (EU)-funded Copernicus Climate Change Service, as the planet continues to warm, not all regions are heating up at the same pace, with Europe warming at a speed more than twice the global average since the 1980s. The EU's climate monitoring agency links this accelerated warming to shifts in weather patterns, lower levels of air pollution and Europe's geographic features, including areas that stretch into the Arctic, the planet's quickest-heating region. High heat kills tens of thousands of people in Europe every year. Researchers estimate that dangerous heatwaves in Europe will kill 8,000 to 80,000 more people a year by the end of the century as the lives lost to stronger heat outpace those saved from milder winters. "This summer, like every summer now, has been exceptional in terms of extreme heat around the world," said Bob Ward, policy director of the Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment at the London School of Economics. Agartala, Aug 14 : Hours before the Independence Day celebration, security forces in Tripura, on Thursday, foiled a militant attack on the police and arrested two extremists and recovered huge explosives from them, officials said. A senior police official said that specific inputs of sabotage by an armed group having links with the Reang (Bru) outfit -- Tripura United National Front (TUNF) -- have been received. "Based on the intelligence inputs, an ambush was laid on Kanchanpur-Vangmun highway. On Thursday evening active cadres of the group (TUNF) Dhananjoy Reang and Sadai Nanda Reang were nabbed in front of the Eden tourist lodge under Vangmun police station in north Tripura district," the official added. Dhananjoy Reang hails from Katlichhera in Hailakandi district of southern Assam and Sadai Nanda Reang is a resident of Kasko under Damcherra areas of north Tripura district. High end explosive materials were recovered from them, he said. According to the police official, the main target of the militants was to kill police or security forces personnel deployed in connection with Independence Day celebration and loot arms and ammunition to strengthen their newly-formed TUNF group operating from Assam. The official said that the militant group (TUNF) is in the formation stage, and added that the basic target of the outfit was to carry out attacks on police and security vehicles and loot weapons for the group. "The group has also been planning to do subversive activities in Kanchanpur subdivision to get maximum attention on the eve of this Independence Day. The State Intelligence wing has been closely monitoring the inputs on ground for the last two days in coordination with north Tripura district police," the official added. The official said that through this successful operation, a significant breakthrough against a potential cross border militant group could be achieved. "A major incident has also been averted due to the pro-active role played by Tripura Police," the official added. Meanwhile, on September 24 last year, altogether 584 extremists of the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) outfits surrendered and deposited before the Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha at a surrender ceremony at the Tripura State Rifles seventh battalion headquarters at Jampuijala in Sepahijala district. The militants of the two outfits surrendered to the Tripura government after the signing of the peace agreement with the Centre and Tripura government in Delhi on September 4 last year in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Tripura Chief Minister, other political leaders and officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Tripura government. Rajkot, Aug 14 : As part of the Gujarat Jodo campaign, the Aam Aadmi Party's Legal Cell on Thursday organised a meeting in Rajkot aimed at bringing more lawyers into the party fold. Rajkot, Aug 14 (IANS) As part of the Gujarat Jodo campaign, the Aam Aadmi Partyas Legal Cell on Thursday organised a meeting in Rajkot aimed at bringing more lawyers into the party fold. The event was chaired by Gujarat Legal Cell President Adv. Pranav Thakkar and Gujarat State Organisation Minister Ajit Lokhil. A large number of young lawyers and senior citizens joined AAP during the gathering, which was held in the special presence of AAP Trade Wing President Shivalal Barsiya and Rajkot City President Dinesh Joshi. Among those present were senior advocates J.M. Kuwadiya, Jit Piplia, and Yash Pan, as well as community members Paresh Dholariya, Ashok Virda, Savan Limbasiya, Mahesh Ramani, Vaju Molia, Rikkin Chovatia, Deval Lunagaria, Ashok Nathani, Narottam Sanghani, Devang Vekaria, Ratilal Molia, Dhruvil Nathani, Bachhu Bharwad, and Deepakbhai Limbasiya, among others. The organisers, Adv. Vivek Limbasiya and Vishal Nathani played a key role in ensuring the success of the programme. In Gujarat, AAP has gradually carved out a foothold, emerging as a fledgling yet noticeable presence in the state's political landscape. In the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections, AAP secured five seats and garnered 12.92 per cent of the vote share, establishing itself as the third-largest force after the BJP and Congress - an outcome that also contributed to its elevation to national party status. Since then, the party retained its position by winning the Visavadar by-election in June 2025, reinforcing its local relevance. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains the dominant force in Gujaratas political landscape, holding firm control across key legislative and local arenas. In the 2022 state assembly elections, the BJP achieved an unprecedented victory by winning 156 out of 182 seats, capturing 52.5 per cent of the vote share - its largest mandate yet in the state. When including recent by-elections, the partyas strength in the assembly stands at 162 seats, far ahead of its competitors. On the 2024 Lok Sabha front, the BJP retained 25 out of 26 parliamentary seats in Gujarat, with only Banaskantha slipping to Congress, halting a possible clean sweep. In local body elections held in February 2025, the BJP again showcased its reach, securing 215 seats unopposed and leading in numerous municipal and panchayat contests. Agartala, Aug 14 : Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said on Thursday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been working to protect the country's integrity, and everyone must unite to protect the nation from division. Tripura Chief Minister, while addressing the state-level 'Observance of Partition Horrors Remembrance Day', said that through these kinds of discussions, people and students would understand in which direction the country would go, which path we would follow, and who would lead the country in the coming days. "We always think about ourselves, but everyone must also think about their own state and country. Today, we know about the world due to the internet, but I don't know how much today's generation is aware of history. No one can erase history. If we read history, we would learn about the present and the past. This is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Partition Horrors Remembrance Day in 2021," Saha said. He said that during the partition and the freedom struggle, many people were killed, many women were raped, many children went missing, and many people had to leave and relocate. "This day is to remember such times and such incidents." The Chief Minister told the gathering that everyone must be aware of how the country suffered. Everyone must remember everything so that history does not repeat itself. Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is very important, and every year on 14th August, we observe it. If every year we can hold the program in various locations, then people would be aware of the incidents of partition horrors, he said. "Even now, there are some people who work to create unrest or riots to divide the people. We must learn from the partition so that we do not move towards division," said Saha. He said that in 1881, riots started and were happening in many places, creating a division between Hindus and Muslims, and the British worked for this under their divide-and-rule policy. "Such riots did not occur for religious purposes but for political benefits and to become Prime Minister as soon as possible. In Kashmir, the Hindu Pandits faced many problems at the hands of terrorists. Due to the ideals and thinking of Dr. Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, Hindu Bengalis got a place," the Chief Minister pointed out. He said that many people from East and West Pakistan came here, leaving their properties, and from India, Muslims went there. Due to division, people faced many problems. PM Modi has been working to protect the country's integrity, and we must stay united; if not, there will be problems. Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury and several other dignitaries were present at the event. --IANS sc/dan Jaipur, Aug 14 : The 2017 Anandpal Singh encounter case from Malasar village in Churu district has taken a new turn as Anandpal's wife, Raj Kanwar, has filed a petition in the District and Sessions Court of Churu, alleging the encounter was fake and seeking compliance with Supreme Court directives in the matter. Jaipur, Aug 14 (IANS) The 2017 Anandpal Singh encounter case from Malasar village in Churu district has taken a new turn as Anandpalas wife, Raj Kanwar, has filed a petition in the District and Sessions Court of Churu, alleging the encounter was fake and seeking compliance with Supreme Court directives in the matter. Filed on August 13 through advocate Narendra Singh Rathore, the petition claims that the CBI court has already declared the encounter as fake. Despite this, Raj Kanwar alleges, several police officers involved were granted out-of-turn promotions and gallantry awards, in violation of the Supreme Courtas order dated September 23, 2014. That order clearly states that such honours cannot be conferred immediately after an encounter unless the act of bravery is proven beyond doubt. The petition urges the court to immediately revoke all benefits awarded to the officers involved and to initiate legal proceedings against them. It also calls for strict adherence to the apex courtas guidelines in similar cases, arguing that such compliance is essential to uphold the rule of law and maintain public faith in the justice system. Anandpal Singh, a notorious figure with 24 criminal cases against hima"including murder, robbery, and kidnappinga"was killed in an encounter on June 24, 2017, in Malasar village by Rajasthan Policeas Special Operations Group (SOG) and other units. His family and supporters have consistently maintained that the encounter was staged, sparking widespread protests across Rajasthan at the time. The case has remained contentious for years, with repeated demands for an independent probe. Raj Kanwaras latest legal move seeks not only to challenge the legitimacy of the police action but also to highlight what she describes as blatant disregard for judicial orders. With the petition now before the Churu court, the matter is expected to reignite debates over alleged fake encounters, police accountability, and the enforcement of Supreme Court guidelines in such cases. The courtas decision could have far-reaching implications for the officers involved and for the handling of encounter cases in India, said officials. New Delhi, Aug 14 : We had only seen VIPs on television before, but today we are here ourselves, Damyanti Tufan from Mana village in Uttarakhand said on Thursday, describing her pride at being invited to the national capital for Independence Day celebrations under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP). Similar sentiments were echoed by other residents from border regions of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Ladakh, who said the government's efforts have transformed their communities and given them the confidence to step outside their homes, work, and represent their villages on national platforms. The Vibrant Villages Programme, launched on April 10, 2023, by the Ministry of Home Affairs, focuses on improving the quality of life in strategically important villages along India's northern borders. Under Phase-1, 662 villages have been identified for development. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure, healthcare, connectivity, tourism, and livelihood opportunities, especially for women and youth. Speaking at the meeting, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda said the programme is helping create vibrant hubs in border areas by promoting entrepreneurship in horticulture, floriculture, and other local skills. He added that the Health Ministry is ensuring healthcare access by setting up Ayushman Arogya Mandirs for every 1,0001,500 people and deploying mobile medical units. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava informed that 58 healthcare projects have already been sanctioned under the National Health Mission for these areas. Border Management Secretary Rajendra Kumar said Rs 3,000 crore has been sanctioned to improve road infrastructure, along with efforts to provide 4G connectivity and promote tourism and agriculture. From Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, Manju Devi from Kailashpur village said she and other women spend six months in agriculture and six months weaving wool from sheep, but face difficulties in selling their products. "Earlier, women rarely stepped outside their homes. Now, due to government training and support, we can work, travel, and manage bank work confidently. If marketing support is given, our income will grow," she told IANS. Damyanti Tufan from Mana village said the invitation to Delhi was a proud milestone. "This is possible because the government has made it easier for women to work together, produce local handicrafts, and stand on our own feet," she told IANS. Rukmini Martolia from Ghansali village in the Niti border area thanked the government for boosting tourism and connectivity but appealed for reopening the Mansarovar Yatra route via the China border. "If the route is opened, our youth and women will get jobs. Improved roads and tourism can turn our border into a livelihood hub," she told IANS. Nirmala from Niti Valley also urged for the reopening of the Mansarovar Yatra and highlighted poor network services in her area despite a tower being installed. "We have roads up to the border now, but our youth are unemployed. If tourism is promoted and the pilgrimage route is opened, we women can run homestays and create jobs for the next generation," she said. From Uttarakhand's Dharchula block in Pithoragarh district, Kalika Gram Sabha's representative expressed gratitude for being invited to Delhi. "Earlier, poor women like us never imagined coming to the capital. Now we can cook on LPG instead of firewood, thanks to the Ujjwala scheme, and our homes have tap water. The Prime Minister has given us dignity and the courage to step outside our homes," she said. From Arunachal Pradesh, Jimmy Negi said she runs a small resort in a remote area and has benefited from the VVP. "Roads, healthcare, and Airtel 4G have reached our village, solving our biggest communication problems. Tourism is increasing and I am thankful to the government for creating opportunities for women entrepreneurs like me. This invitation to Delhi has been a wonderful experience," she said. Kolkata, Aug 14 : The continuation of Bengal and Bengalis had been historically maximum, claimed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday. "The state which has contributed the most to the Indian freedom movement is Bengal. The maximum sacrifice of life was made from Bengal. So we are proud of our Bengal," the Chief Minister said, while addressing a rally on Independence Day Eve at Behalf in the southern outskirts of Kolkata on Thursday evening. Speaking on the occasion, she attacked BJP and the Election Commission of India (ECI) over the special intensive revision by the commission "The real intention behind special intensive revision is actually aimed at slapping NRC and CAA in West Bengal. Which citizens who were born before 1982 have their birth certificates? The Union government is constantly insulting West Bengal. But the people of West Bengal will not tolerate this insult," the Chief Minister said. Speaking on the occasion, she also focused on the issue of the alleged attack and harassment of Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states. "People are jailed for speaking in Bengali. Is speaking in Bengali a crime? Why should any person who is speaking in Bengali be branded as a Bangladesh? " the Chief Minister claimed. Those who are trying to discriminate against Bengalis do have any idea of the language that icons like Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Kavi Nazrul Islam and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose spoke, the Chief Minister questioned. She also questioned why AADHAR cards, which were introduced by the current Union government against payment, would not be accepted as the document for special intensive review. "My entire life is all about struggle. If necessary I will struggle again. But under no circumstance I will allow snatching voting rights," the Chief Minister said. Jaipur, Aug 14 : Rajasthan unit BJP president Madan Rathore launched a scathing attack on the Congress on Thursday, accusing it of initiating the practice of vote theft in India. Referring to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, Rathore alleged that her name was added to the voter list in 1980three years before she officially acquired Indian citizenship in 1983. "Vote theft began with Sonia Gandhi," Rathore stated. "When the beginning itself is tainted, how can the Congress lecture anyone on vote rigging? This is a classic case of 'chor machaye shor'." Rathore claimed that Sonia Gandhi becoming a voter before acquiring Indian citizenship was the original act of electoral fraud. "She was listed as a voter in 1980 but only became a citizen in 1983. What greater theft than that?" Accusing Congress of making excuses when defeated, Rathore hit back at Congress accusations of vote manipulation by the BJP, calling them baseless. "If we were involved in vote theft, how did leaders like Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Ashok Gehlot, Sachin Pilot, Tikaram Jully, and Govind Singh Dotasra win elections? Congress celebrates its wins but cries foul when defeated." He accused the Congress of manipulating voter lists over the years. "The voter list is revised regularlynames of new voters are added, deceased persons are removed. If someone relocates, their name is shifted accordingly. Yet Congress has consistently tampered with this process by inserting fake names." Speaking on allegations over illegal voters and vote bank politics, Rathore raised concerns over illegal inclusion of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis in voter lists. "Who will decide the future of this countryits citizens or illegal immigrants? Many have added Rohingyas and Bangladeshis to the voter rolls just to secure votes. Now that these names are being removed, they're panicking over losing their vote bank." Calling for constructive political competition, Rathore said, "If you want to compete, do so in public service. Serve people better than usearn blessings, not votes through illegal means." Addressing the upcoming student union elections, Rathore emphasised that elections should be conducted in a peaceful and systematic manner. "Where there is peace, there will be proper elections. The leadership will decide the appropriate time and format for the elections, whether by direct vote or nomination." Speaking about opium cultivation in Chittorgarh, Rathore clarified the BJP's stance, "Opium is useful only as a medicine and should be used strictly for that purpose. Illegal cultivation must be stopped, and offenders should be dealt with firmly. Scientists understand its usage, not the common citizen." Rathore made these remarks during his visit to Nimbahera in Chittorgarh, where he participated in the Tiranga Yatra organised by local MLA Chandrabhan Akya while talking to media at the BJP office in Chittorgarh. Bengaluru, Aug 15 : The Congress-led Karnataka government has said that the decision to halt the excavation of suspected burial sites in connection with the mass grave case at Dharmasthala in Karnataka's Mangaluru district will be made by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Thursday, Home Minister G. Parameshwara said, "The excavation process is not never-ending. It is going to end. I will leave the decision to the SIT. They are handling the matter, and I can't take a call sitting here. They will stop when they know that he is giving false information." Reacting to the SIT not finding anything even after digging at 17 locations, he added, "We haven't fixed a time frame for the probe. When evidence was presented, we acted to verify it as demanded by the complainant. If we had not carried out the excavations, what would they have said about the government? When nothing is found, they talk differently. The appropriate course of action will be taken after receiving the report." On BJP's criticism of the Congress-led government's handling of the mass grave case, Parameshwara said that the BJP had suddenly taken an interest in the matter. "In the beginning, they (BJP) were quiet. We will also consider their observations," he added. When asked about the BJP stressing that no evidence had been found in the excavation, he said, "I don't know about that. Maybe the BJP wanted to raise the issue in the Assembly session. They might have thought that if the matter is discussed in the session, the government would respond. We will consider their opinion and take decisions accordingly." He also added that the SIT will decide based on the seriousness of allegations in any new complaints. "They can judge," Minister Parameshwara said. When asked about filing a case with the SIT regarding the disappearance of medical student Ananya Bhat, who is said to be non-existent, Parameshwara said, "Neither I nor CM Siddaramaiah can decide this matter. How did this issue come to light? Now they are saying that the woman claiming to be Ananya Bhat's mother was never married and never had children. How did they find out? The facts surfaced locally, and this news reached Bengaluru. I can't comment on these developments while sitting in Vidhana Soudha." Meanwhile, the masked man, who is also the unknown complainant, claimed in a television interview that all burial instructions came directly from the temple's information centre, and that the police and other authorities were never involved. He said that a small team, including himself, buried the bodies of women in forests, along old roads, and on riverbanks. He alleged that at burial site number 13 alone, he disposed of 70 to 80 bodies. "One woman's body was buried on the famous Bahubali Hills, and about 70 bodies were buried at the Nethravati bathing ghat." Many bodies, he claimed, bore clear signs of sexual assault and violence. In total, he alleged that he buried about 100 bodies, most of them women, and that he also buried children and elderly victims. He insisted that his allegations are true and that he is guiding the SIT team based on his memory, though the landscape has changed and the burial sites need to be excavated more extensively. He also claimed that on the night of the 2012 Sowjanya murder case, he received a call and was shouted at for being on leave. He found Sowjanya's body the next day. The masked man said that he has dreams of skeletons and wants to bring the truth to light. He denied allegations of stealing gold or valuables from the dead bodies and said that after revealing the truth, he wants to return to his family. Jerusalem, Aug 15 : Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has said that he had reviewed a military plan for seizing Gaza City, signalling preparations for what would be one of the most extensive ground operations in Gaza since the war began in October 2023. Katz met at military headquarters in Tel Aviv with Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and other top Commanders, who presented the main principles of an operation to conquer Gaza City and other areas where Israel has not yet gained full control, Xinhua news agency reported. The plan was approved by the security Cabinet earlier this week. "Israel is determined to defeat Hamas in Gaza, free all the hostages and bring the war to an end," Katz said in a statement issued on his behalf. "The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is mobilising all its forces and preparing with great force to implement the Cabinet's decision. We will act as one fist until the mission is complete," he added. Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the military occupation of Gaza City, located in the north of the Palestinian enclave. "The (Israeli military) will prepare to take control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to the civilian population outside the combat zones," Netanyahu's office said in a statement early on Friday announcing the takeover plan. Netanyahu's comments followed reports in Israeli media earlier this week that the Israeli leader would imminently announce plans to fully occupy the entirety of the Gaza Strip. Hamas said Netanyahu's comments "represent a blatant reversal of the negotiation process and clearly expose the real motives behind his withdrawal from the last ceasefire round, despite our nearing a final agreement". "His plans to expand the aggression confirm beyond doubt that he seeks to abandon his own prisoners, sacrificing them to serve his personal interests and extremist ideological agenda," the group said in a statement. Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid said the decision to take over Gaza City was a "disaster that will lead to many more disasters". The plan will "take months, lead to the death of the hostages, the killing of many soldiers, cost tens of billions to the Israeli taxpayers, and lead to a political collapse," he wrote in a post on X. "This is exactly what Hamas wanted: for Israel to be trapped in the field without a goal, without defining the picture of the day after, in a useless occupation that no one understands where it is leading." As Israeli forces continued their assault in Gaza, local health authorities said on Thursday that at least 50 people were killed across the enclave over the past 24 hours and 831 others wounded. Since October 2023, at least 61,776 people have been killed by Israeli strikes and gunfire, the authorities said. Vilnius, Aug 15 : Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has submitted to the country's Parliament, the Seimas, the nomination of Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) member Inga Ruginiene as Prime Minister, the Presidential Office said. Juozas Olekas, first Deputy Speaker of the Seimas, said on Thursday that the Board of the Seimas is expected to decide on Monday when to call an extraordinary session to approve the nomination, the Baltic News Service (BNS) reported. Once confirmed, Ruginiene will have up to 15 days to present a Cabinet and government programme agreed with the President, Xinhua news agency reported. The programme must also win parliamentary approval. Nauseda told LRT TV that the information available so far gives reason to believe Ruginiene will "successfully do the job" as Prime Minister, though her background requires "more attention". He said that their first meeting lasted two hours -- unusually long -- and that in some areas, such as parts of her personal history, he had to rely on her answers. Ruginiene has faced public questions about relatives in Russia, visits to the country, her husband's business interests, and her forestry degree, which she completed in one year. Nauseda met with her twice before forwarding her nomination to the Seimas. The LSDP have been negotiating a new coalition since the resignation of Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas last week. The financial crimes watchdog (FNTT) arrested Paluckas's brother on Thursday and detained four other individuals as part of a probe into businesses linked to the former Prime Minister. No charges have yet been brought against Paluckas. On July 31, President Nauseda said that Paluckas had announced his resignation. The Lithuanian media reported on July 30 that investigators from the Financial Crime Investigation Service conducted a search at Dankora, a company owned by Paluckas's brother's wife. This company received European funding and purchased battery systems from Garnis a" a company linked to the Prime Minister. Paluckas himself denied any accusations against him. As reported, amid a series of scandals, trust in the government and specifically in Paluckas has declined. Earlier this week, LSDP representatives met with their existing partners, the Democratic Union "For Lithuania" and the Dawn of Nemunas. Ruginiene, 44, was elected to Parliament for the first time in 2024. Prior to her political career, she served as chair of the Lithuanian Confederation of Trade Unions. BUCHAREST, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Romanian President Nicusor Dan on Thursday signed a decree appointing Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan as interim deputy prime minister in the portfolio previously coordinated by Dragos Anastasiu, the Presidential Administration announced. Anastasiu resigned on July 27. The resignation was formally recorded in the Official Journal on August 8. Anastasiu had served as deputy prime minister since June, overseeing reforms of state-owned companies and the wider state apparatus, including digitalization and administrative streamlining. Under Romania's constitution and political conventions, the prime minister may be temporarily appointed as deputy prime minister to assume additional powers or cover the duties of another deputy. Jerusalem, Aug 15 : Israel's Mossad Chief David Barnea visited Doha for talks with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani on a Gaza hostage deal, media reported. A senior Israeli official told Israel's state-owned Kan TV on Thursday that Barnea informed the Qatari Prime Minister that a phased deal for the release of the 50 hostages held in Gaza "is off the table". The official said the meeting focused on "issues involving the Mossad" and not on renewing the indirect negotiations in Doha, the last of which took place in early July, Xinhua news agency reported. The visit comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday that efforts to secure a truce in Gaza are now centered on a comprehensive deal to release all remaining hostages at once. Previous deals involved temporary truces in exchange for the phased release of hostages. Barnea's visit also follows reports that a Hamas delegation arrived in Qatar earlier this week, in a bid to revive negotiations and avert Israel's plan to further escalate its offensive in Gaza. According to Channel 12, Barnea conveyed to al-Thani during their meeting that Israel was not bluffing with its plan to conquer Gaza, and intends to do so unless there's progress in the talks to free the hostages. Following the breakdown of negotiations for a temporary ceasefire last month, and after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government approved plans to invade Gaza City and widen the military's grip on the Gaza Strip, Israeli officials have signaled that they are no longer interested in securing a temporary calm and the release of only some of the hostages. Instead, they have said Israel wants to pursue a comprehensive deal to release the remaining hostages and end the war in Gaza on Jerusalem's terms -- with the demilitarisation of the Strip and the installation of a new government that is not connected to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. Still, mediator Egypt is trying to bring both Israel and Hamas back to the negotiating table to discuss a temporary truce with room for it to turn into a permanent ceasefire once both sides have agreed on the exact terms. The framework would likely be similar to the previous one put forward by US Special envoy Steve Witkoff, which was at the centre of the failed negotiations last month. "The main objective is to go back to the original proposal -- to have 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," Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said earlier this week, announcing the plans. As Israeli forces continued their assault in Gaza, local health authorities said on Thursday that at least 50 people were killed throughout the enclave over the past 24 hours and 831 wounded, including 22 killed while trying to get food at aid centres. Since October 2023, at least 61,776 people have been killed by Israeli strikes and gunfire, the authorities added. Four more people died of famine and malnutrition, bringing the total to 239, including 106 children. Quetta, Aug 15 : Several Baloch human rights organisations, on Thursday, raised grave concern after two Baloch scholars were forcibly disappeared by Pakistan's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) amid an ongoing wave of enforced disappearances across the province. Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ) said that Usman Qazi, a PhD holder and Assistant Professor at BUITEMS University, and his younger brother Jibran Ahmed, an MPhil Economics student, were taken into custody by the CTD personnel in the early hours on August 12 during a raid on their home in Afnan town, of the provincial capital Quetta. Since then, their whereabouts remain unknown. "Enforced disappearance is prohibited under international law and constitutes a serious violation of fundamental rights, including the rights to liberty, security of person, and protection from torture or ill-treatment," the BVJ added. Condemning the enforced disappearance, Paank, the Baloch National Movement's Human Rights Department, called the abduction of an academic and his young scholar brother "deeply alarming" and "utterly unacceptable". The rights bodies urged the authorities to immediately disclose the fate and whereabouts of Qazi and Jibran, and hold the Pakistani authorities accountable for this grave violation. They also called on to ensure the safety and secure the prompt and unconditional release of both the Baloch youth. Meanwhile, raising concerns, the human rights organisations demanded the immediate release and protection of Shabar Jamaldini, a peaceful Baloch political activist, detained at Peterborough police station in the United Kingdom. It said that he faces a serious risk to life if deported to Pakistan, where activists are often subjected to enforced disappearance, arbitrary detention, and extrajudicial killing. "Baloch activists face grave danger in Pakistan -- abductions, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings are widespread. In the first six months of 2025 alone, Paank documented 785 enforced disappearances and 121 killings. Returning Shabar would place him directly in the hands of those responsible for these abuses, risking his life and silencing his voice," Paank said. The rights body BVJ urged the UK authorities to suspend any deportation or transfer, grant a temporary stay for a fresh asylum claim, ensure full access to legal counsel, and urged the international human rights organisations to intervene urgently. Meanwhile, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) said that marking the 10th consecutive day, a Baloch family staged a protest camp 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 by Pakistani forces on July 17, along with his rickshaw, which he drove part-time to support his family. "Led by his ailing father, Abdul Hameed, a hepatitis patient, the family has been braving heat, exhaustion, and complete official silence, refusing to end the camp until Zahid is safely returned. It has now been 29 days since Zahid's enforced disappearance. Authorities have not disclosed his whereabouts, turning his case into yet another example of Pakistan's systematic policy of enforced disappearances targeting Baloch youth," the BYC said. The rights body urged students, rights groups, journalists, and Karachi's citizens to visit the camp, stand with the family, and amplify the demand for Zahid's immediate release. Sanaa, Aug 15 : Yemen's Houthi armed group has claimed responsibility for a fresh "hypersonic ballistic missile" strike on an airport in Israel. "The Yemeni armed forces (Houthi armed forces) carried out a qualitative military operation targeting Ben Gurion Airport, using a hypersonic ballistic missile," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said on Thursday in a statement aired by the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. "The operation successfully achieved its goal ... and forced millions of Israelis to flee to shelters, as well as halting the airport operations," Sarea added. The attack is "a victory for the oppressed Palestinian people" and a response to the crimes of genocide and starvation committed by the enemy in the Gaza Strip, he said. Earlier on Thursday, the Israeli Defense Forces said it had identified a missile flying from Yemen toward Israel, which was intercepted by Israel's aerial defence systems, Xinhua news agency reported. The Houthis have launched repeated missile and drone attacks against Israel since the Gaza war began in October 2023, sparked by Hamas's attack on Israel, claiming solidarity with Palestinians. In response, Israel has carried out several air strikes on Yemen, including on the port city of Hodeidah earlier this month. The Israeli military had said that "following the sirens that sounded a short while ago in several areas in Israel, one missile that was launched from Yemen was intercepted". Earlier in July 2025, the Houthis resumed deadly attacks in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, targeting ships they accuse of having links to Israel, to force Israel to end the Gaza war. Yemen's Houthi group said on Wednesday 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 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". The Houthis, which control much of northern Yemen, including the capital Sanaa, have been launching attacks against Israeli targets since November 2023 to show solidarity with the Palestinian people amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Jammu, Aug 15 : As Army joined the rescue operations which are underway as at least 46 people, including two CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) personnel, were killed, and 167 others were rescued from mounds of rubble after a massive cloudburst led to flash floods in Chashoti in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. As night fell over, Of the 167 rescued, 38 are in a serious condition, officials said. Flash floods tore through the densely populated foothill hamlet, damaging several homes and even forcing authorities to halt the annual yatra to the Machail Mata shrine. Chashoti is the starting point for the Machail Mata Yatra, as well as the last motorable village on the way to the Himalayan shrine of Mata Chandi in Kishtwar. The annual yatra has been suspended after the flash floods, officials said. "A flash flood has occurred at Chashoti area in Kishtwar, which is the starting point of the Machail Mata Yatra. Rescue Operations have been started," said Kishtwar Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Sharma. The disaster marks the second major flood-related tragedy in India this month. Expressing grief over the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that every possible help is being given. "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," the Prime Minister posted on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on X that he had spoken to the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and National Disaster Response Force teams have been rushed to the site. "Spoke with the L-G and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need," he wrote. The Army's White Knight Corps said it has joined the rescue and relief operations. "In the aftermath of a cloudburst at Chisoti (Chositi) village, Kishtwar, troops of White Knight Corps swiftly mobilised for rescue and relief ops (operations). Efforts are centred on safeguarding lives and aiding survivors. Search for missing continues. Relief stores, medical teams and rescue gear rushed to site. We Serve, We Protect," the Corps said in a post. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's office said that he is in touch with the district administration and all relief measures are being taken. "Chief Minister has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic cloudburst in Kishtwar, extending condolences to the bereaved families. The Chief Minister's office is in touch with the district administration, and all the measures for relief and rescue are being taken," it said. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also cancelled the cultural events planned for Independence Day celebrations as well as his "At Home" tea party to he held on Friday evening. "In light of the tragedy caused by the cloud burst in Kishtwar I have taken the decision to cancel the "At Home" tea party tomorrow evening. We have also decided not to go ahead with the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. The formal events - speech, march past etc will go ahead as planned," the Chief minister said in a post on X. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed the police, Army, and disaster response agencies to strengthen the rescue operations. "Anguished by cloudburst in Chashoti in Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families and prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF and SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue and relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected," he said. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his sympathies to the families of the victims and asked Congress workers to help. "Extremely pained by the loss of several lives in the terrible cloudburst tragedy in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir. My heart goes out to the families of the victims, and I express my deepest sympathies to each of them. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured and with those searching for their missing family members," he wrote on X. "I urge the authorities to engage more NDRF and Armed Forces teams for better relief and rehabilitation efforts. In this grim situation, Congress workers must extend all possible assistance to the people," he added. Historian Graff, whose book Watergate was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, spent an intense year writing The Devil Reached Toward the Sky (Avid Reader, Aug.), about the Manhattan Project and the dropping of the atomic bomb. The bestselling author of 10 books, who also hosts the Long Shadow podcast and writes the popular newsletter Doomsday Scenario, discusses the bombs legacy and explains why he likes messy history. This is your third book-length volume of oral history, after The Only Plane in the Sky (about 9/11) and When the Sea Came Alive (about D-Day). Why did you want to write it? This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. At this moment we effectively have every first-person memory that well have of the war, and my goal was to tell those stories in the voices of the people who lived them. With my book, I tried to capture what it was like to learn the secrets of the atom and embark on the Manhattan Project at a moment when we didnt know what would happen in the war. We didnt know if Hitler would build a bomb first, or if the bomb would work at all. The book is based on archival research and masterfully draws from a range of sources including memoirs, government reports, personal letters, testimonials, and more. How did you pull the material together? Doing oral history is the opposite of doing normal book writing because its subtractive rather than additive. Im from Vermont and I talk about it as similar to making maple syrup. You start with this enormous vat of sap then spend months boiling it down to the essence of the story. I started this book after months of research with a manuscript that was about 1.4 million words. Then I sat there and boiled off between 90 and 95 percent of that manuscript to get it down to the essence. It brings together about 500 voices spanning scientists, soldiers, government officials, and many others, as well as hundreds of voices of the Japanese survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and those who fought on the Japanese side as well. The Manhattan Project wasnt contained to Los Alamos in New Mexico. There were other facilities, including secret cities in Washington State and Tennessee that employed tens of thousands of workers, from scientists to cooks and janitors. How did you work to capture the voices of everyday folks when composing this book? We often oversimplify the story of the Manhattan Project to J. Robert Oppenheimer and his band of merry physicists on a mesa at Los Alamos. But the majesty of the Manhattan Project is in the industrial might that the U.S. brings to bear on the creation of the atomic bomb. Workers tolled in secret facilities sometimes for years without ever knowing the thing theyre doing to contribute to the war effort, and that to me is whats incredible about the scale of the Manhattan Project. When Im sorting through testimonials and memories, what Im searching for is the extraordinary and the ordinary. Im looking for people who have the most incredible experiences, but Im also looking for the most ordinary accounts. Those are the voices that are easiest to write out of history. One of the stories I really love is what came to be known as the Calutron Girls. During WWII there was a massive labor shortage and they ended up recruiting recent high school graduate women out of the mountains of Tennessee to run the uranium refining process, using machines called calutrons. They went on to be the majority of the workforce in this specialized process. What do you like about writing oral history? It captures the messiness of history. I come to history as a journalist and one of the things that being a journalist teaches you is that events are messy and unclear to people as they live through them. Oral history lets you understand history in a different way. Whats the legacy of the Manhattan Project, and whats its relevance to the modern moment? The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki are events so terrible that the central organizing principle of geopolitics ever since has been to avoid ever using those weapons again. And yet here, in the middle of the 2020s, were probably at a moment where were closer to nuclear danger than most people realize. The Manhattan Project is also important in how it rewrites the relationship between government and science. Before WWII we had no sense of industry and science and technology as a core national strength. What were witnessing now, as the Trump administration tries to gut higher education by cutting science and medical research funding and reversing the tradition of international students and immigrants coming to the U.S. to study, is a suffocation of the countrys greatest strength. This book stands as a powerful duology with your previous book, When the Sea Came Alive, about D-Day. Taken together, what do you think they say about WWII and American history? What stands out if you read them back to back is the way that these two events, D-Day in Europe, and the Manhattan Project and the dropping of the atomic bomb in the Pacific, tell the story of the invention of the American century: the idea of America in its post-war mythology as the leader of the free world. You see the roots of the rest of the 20th century in these two events, and the mythology that grows up around them, about America as the unparalleled economic hegemon and inventor of what comes next in the world. Youre an avid collector of historical memorabilia. What kinds of objects do you collect? I have this amazing 1890s carriage barn that serves as my office and have filled its walls with posters and broadsides and newspapers from historical events, and the bookshelves themselves are filled with trinkets and artifacts. I have coffee mugs from secret government bunkers, Richard Nixon campaign posters, a mini grandfather clock honoring George Dewey, hero of the Spanish-American War. I love antique stores and used bookstores, and Ive always been an eBay troller. Youve written 10 books and co-authored others. What do you do for fun, or are you always writing? When Im in between work reading, I use that time to read more widely in nonfiction. The least surprising thing is that I have in fact always been that person. When I was in elementary school my teacher told me shed never met any student who enjoyed nonfiction as much as I did. Thats still true of me almost 40 years later. And I have far more books that Id like to write that Ill ever get around to writing. Elaine Szewczyks writing has appeared in McSweeneys and other publications. Shes the author of the novel Im with Stupid. Actor, producer, and book club creator Raegan Revord is best known for their role on Young Sheldon as the beloved Missy Cooper. At just 14, Revord signed a two-book deal, and the now 17-year-old child star is releasing their debut YA novel, Rules for Fake Girlfriends. The sapphic rom-com follows Avery Blackwell, a Columbia-bound freshman who reroutes her plans to study at her late mothers seaside alma mater in England. When Avery agrees to a fake dating scheme with a girl who offers to help solve a decades-old scavenger hunt that her mother left behind, she embarks on a journey through queer girlhood, campus legend, and the stages of grief. Revord spoke with PW from New York City about how their acting career cultivated their view of coming-of-age arcs, the balance between adventure, grief, and romance, and how theyve reimagined rom-com tropes. How did playing the role of Missy Cooper shape your understanding of coming-of-age arcs? I feel like I was growing up with Missy. We were following the same path, which is crazy because it wasnt planned. Something would happen to her and then to me. I feel like her arc was very age-accurate and relatable. The writers did so well with Missys story. It made me a bit biased toward other coming-of-age arcs because hers felt so realsomeone I could see out in the world. Now when I watch other stories, I analyze their arcs more because of what I learned with Missy. And what made you pivot from acting to writing? Ive wanted to be an author since I was about five. I loved writing books in school during lunch and recess, and I would bring them home to my parents. I have teachers and librarians in my family, so the love of reading was always there. I got a book agent around 12 and started taking writing seriously. I shared my ideas with the agent, and now my book is coming out, which is hard to believe. I wanted to tell a realistic story where life isnt just a rom-com. One aspect of Rules that stood apart was the theme of performance in love, especially in connection to queerness. What inspired you to explore those dynamics? Growing up, there wasnt much exposure to queer media, which is surprising because I was born in 2008. Now, there are many diverse stories. I always wanted to write something where people could see themselves because I didnt have that in books. One of my favorite shows and graphic novels is Heartstopper. I love that series so much, and the way they show queer love as such an innocent thing is so beautiful. I wanted to do something like that. In my book, its very much a found family kind of trope, and like in Heartstopper, everyone in the friend group is a little queer. Speaking of tropes, were there any you knew you wanted to include or avoid? I found a loophole where I could make fun of all the tropes. Every chapter starts with a rom-com rule, and then the chapter contradicts it. Im such a fan of meet-cutes, and I knew I needed to include a good one. Theres also a miscommunication trope, which some people dislike, but I find funny and wanted to include. The only trope not in the book is only one bed. What did your research look like? I watched a lot of 90s rom-coms to study how stories used tropes and how audiences reacted to them. If people disliked certain tropes, Id try to make fun of those. The scavenger hunt that Averys mom leaves behind is a clever narrative device. What drew you to that? My school had scavenger hunts when I was little, and I loved them. Avery and her mom arent close, so I wanted them to have something to bring them together. They bond over rom-coms and I wanted another shared activity, and my brain for some reason went back to scavenger hunts. Balancing the scavenger hunt adventure with the romance must have been tricky. It was the hardest part of the book to writefiguring out all the clues and interweaving them with the romance plot. I wrote in a Google Doc, and I would have a little comment at each clue because I would keep forgetting. Sometimes I wanted to focus on just the romance, but my editor reminded me that the scavenger hunt was important. I made the romance follow the scavenger hunt so they intertwine. Rules also balances the lightness of a rom-com with Averys grief. What challenges did you face in writing that tension? I wanted to tell a realistic story where life isnt just a rom-com; there are sad, heavier moments. Avery lost her mom, which is why she goes to Brighton, to learn about her moms life. There are points where Avery will be somewhere and it hits her that she is in the same place that her mom was, and at the same age. With grief, you can be fine, then a memory hits and you miss them again. Brighton becomes its own character. What about this place or being abroad felt right? Setting it in England was a bit biased. I always wanted to write something there. I was looking at locations and at one point, Avery was going to live in London, but I realized a scavenger hunt wouldnt work in London, but in a coastal town. I remembered that I knew people in Brighton, and I went there to research, but before that, I went onto Google Street View to outline the city. But you know how people say studying abroad makes you a different person? Thats what this was. Overseas felt like it was a reset for Avery. Youve built a large reading community through your book club Read with Raegan. How has being a reader shaped your instincts as a writer? Ive grown up reading. I joke about how Ive been reading since I left the hospital holding a book. I already knew lots of tropes, especially in rom-coms, and knew what I liked and didnt like. Because I interview authors through my book club I could go to them and ask for advice on writers block or challenges. It wasnt like I was figuring everything out alone. One great thing that came from my book club was community and support. Whats next for you? After promotion for Rules calms down, Ill turn to my next book idea, which I was actually working on before Rules. Its a YA fantasy. After I read all those rom-coms, I had to switch to fantasy. Rules for Fake Girlfriends by Raegan Revord. Wednesday, $20 Sept. 2 ISBN 978-1-2503-5634-5 In a set of strategic changes in Holiday House and Peachtrees publishing programs, Mary Cashformerly VP and editor in chief of Holiday Househas been promoted to VP, associate publisher, Holiday House and Peachtree Publishing. The plan was announced by Andrew Smith, senior VP and publisher of Candlewick Press, Holiday House, and Peachtree. Smith has held the position as of April, overseeing Walker Books Groups three U.S. childrens publishing divisions. As part of the transition, Peachtrees associate publisher, Kathy Landwehr, will begin her planned retirement on September 1, following 35 years with the company. Landwehr joined Peachtree as a publicist in 1990 and two years later was promoted to marketing and publicity director. In 1995, she transitioned to the role of editorial director, overseeing editorial, design, and production, and in 1999 she was named associate publisher. Among the titles that Landwehr has acquired and edited during her tenure are the King & Kayla books by Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Nancy Meyers, two of which received Geisel Honors; the Caldecott Honor book Going Down with Daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Daniel Minter; and Erno Rubik and His Magic Cube by Kerry Aradhya, illustrated by Kara Kramer, which was named an Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor Book. In her new role, Cash will help to guide the editorial scope of both Holiday House and Peachtree. Sally Morgridge, who was formally executive editor at Holiday House, has been promoted to editorial director. She will lead the publishers editorial department, reporting to Cash. Peachtrees senior editors, Ashley Hearn and Jonah Heller, will now report to Cash, with Hearn leading Peachtree Teen, the publishers YA imprint, which launched its debut list in summer 2022 under the direction of Landwehr. Hearn joined Peachtree in 2020 from Page Street Publishing. Assistant editor Kade Dishmon is moving over from Holiday House to work under Hearn as part of the Peachtree Teen team, while also acquiring for other categories. Heller, who has been with Peachtree since 2017, will spearhead the publishers childrens list, while also continuing to contribute to its YA titles. Landwehr told PW, Ive had a long and satisfying career at Peachtree, during which Ive had the privilege of working with a host of talented colleagues, authors, and illustrators. Its gratifying to see what theyve been able to achieve and Im looking forward to watching whats to come. Smith said in a statement, I want to extend our deep thanks to Kathy for her immeasurable contributions and leadership of the Peachtree Publishing program. In addition to her outstanding management skills and overall business acumen, Kathy has acquired and edited many amazing titles that have had a tremendous and lasting impact on readers. Cash said in a statement, I feel lucky to be able to work with the talented editors and designers at Peachtree in Atlanta, as well as our wonderful team at Holiday House. I think its a huge advantage to have an office outside of the publishing hub of New York that can take advantage of their unique, local resources and help us understand the tenor of the whole of the country. She added, I see Peachtree and Holiday House maintaining their separate identities but working in tandem to work to our strengths and try new things. Im looking forward to working with Andrew to implement strategic plans that are still in development, but which we know will include expanding in the areas of YA, graphic novels, and much more. Holiday House and Peachtree, along with Candlewick Press and Pixel + Ink, are owned by the private equity firm Trustbridge Global Media. As of February 2024, the publishers have integrated their North American sales and marketing. GENEVA, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Most Swiss residents oppose making concessions to the United States despite heavy tariffs expected to hit the Swiss economy, Swiss media reported Wednesday, citing a new survey. The survey, conducted by the market research institute YouGov from August 5 to 11, polled 1,260 people in Switzerland. Almost two-thirds of respondents said Switzerland should not allow itself to be put under pressure, even if this means facing an import tariff rate of 39 percent. While two-thirds of respondents expect the new tariffs to significantly damage the economy, just 5 percent believe the Swiss economy will suffer little or no damage as a result. In addition, half of those surveyed believe Switzerland should focus more on its own products in the future, even though this could lead to higher prices in the country. The survey also found that 41 percent of respondents were against Swiss companies making major investments in the U.S., while only 15 percent were in favour. The new U.S. tariffs, which came into force on August 7, place "a substantial strain" on Switzerland's export-oriented economy, the Swiss government said. Nearly 60 percent of Swiss exports to the U.S. are subject to the new tariffs. I was heartened to see my former employer, Duke University Health System, quietly reverse its commitment to woke racism this year. I had joined the internal resistance to its diversity, equity, and inclusion crusade and was fired because of it. Heres my story. Without public notice, the 38,000-employee organization scrubbed its website of the commitment to DEI it had trumpeted in 2021, when it proclaimed racism a public health crisis, and equity as its cure. Now, all such fealty to DEI has been discarded with its new 2025 statement of values. The title of its 2021 pledge to patients Duke Health Stands Against Racism, Bias, and Hate has been replaced by Leading with Heart: Rooted in Humanity. No doubt some of this change is due to increasing pushback to those policies: a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging pervasive racial discrimination in its hiring and admissions practices, and the Trump administrations freezing last month of $108 million of federal monies to Duke University and Duke Health because of the illegal use of racial preferences. Duke Health did not respond to requests for comment. Dr. Kendall Conger, who worked at Duke Health System for 10 years, was terminated after questioning its DEI policies. I worked at Duke for 10 years without incident before spending the last few years of my tenure battling the 2021 policy at the cost of my job as an emergency room physician, which is now the subject of a separate lawsuit I have brought. As much as I would like to proclaim victory, I do not want this episode to get memory-holed by organizational leaders who would rather we forget the moral panic that gripped them and the price many of us paid for their destructive and divisive efforts. As the country pulls back from the pernicious ideology of DEI, there are countless other people like myself who suffered the repercussions for refusing to buckle to the madness. Lest there be any misunderstanding, let me be clear: Everyone I know is opposed to racism, bias, and hate, but Duke distorted those words to indict white doctors and nurses for complicity in the poorer health outcomes of black patients. My own form of resistance began in 2018 when Dukes chief diversity officer gave a talk on implicit bias at a physicians meeting. I was shocked by what I heard. For the previous six years, I had been secluded from the world, working weekends in the ER while spending the week homeschooling my children. I was blithely unaware that academia had shifted from a love of Western civilization (a mandatory course when I was in college) to a disdain. The diversity officer told us that society can be broken up into two groups, the oppressors (those with power - essentially, white males) and the oppressed. With stunned incredulity, I wondered, Who thinks like this? One week later, and purely coincidentally, I read The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx. There it lay in his opening paragraph: The history of society is the history of class strugglesof oppressor and the oppressed. As I continued reading, I was shocked by how similar Dukes diversity officer sounded to the discredited 19th-century polemicist. Didnt she know Marx seized on this confrontational construct as dynamite to obliterate the current capitalist system via the communist revolution? Although Marx held out hope for one day creating an imagined classless society, the purpose of his model was destruction. Desiring answers, I read all I could on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the historical origins of this ideology. I expressed my concerns over the divisiveness of her ideas. What else do you propose? she asked me. I was prepared, and quoted social psychologist and author Jonathan Haidt: To make a human hive, you want to make everyone feel like family. So dont call attention to racial and ethnic differences; make them less relevant by ramping up similarity and celebrating the groups shared values and common identity. You can make people care less about race by drowning it in a sea of similarities, shared goals, and mutual interdependencies. Haidts advice seemed like common sense to me. There was an awkward, discomfited pause before she responded, Thats not our model. Discussion over. After the George Floyd riots in 2020, Dukes embrace of DEI tightened. The university prepared an antiracist pledge to the community, dedicating itself to equity. It read, in part: We commit to the elimination of racial inequities. We recognize our own implicit biases and actively seek, listen, and respond to feedback from others as part of our personal growth and development. When confronted with racism, we always take action to speak out against it. We are guided by science and know that excellent research and health care cannot happen without equity. Call for Questions Before its public release, Duke asked its employees if they had any questions or concerns regarding the content. I knew remaining silent meant giving tacit approval to their political pursuits, and I thought it unfair of them to strong-arm our complicity, knowing most people would fear poking the bear, as I was warned. Not totally naive to the danger, I spoke up. Upon questioning the pledge, I was told by an ill-informed chief medical officer (CMO) that equity did not mean equal outcomes for groups, as I had feared, but rather equal distribution of resources and equal access to treatments. However, my reading on DEI told me this was a dodge, that its advocates believed if racial groups were given equal resources and access then outcomes for groups necessarily would follow. The proof for equitably distributed resources could only be equal group outcomes. The pledge alleged racism is a public health crisis, an assertion that was purportedly guided by science, and signed by four senior-level physicians. As racism was not my observation, I asked my supervisor for the medical data supporting this audacious claim that racism was the primary driver of the unfortunate health disparities among many African Americans. He did not have the evidence, nor did he offer to find it. So, I approached the CMO. He likewise did not have the data, nor did he offer to look into it. At this juncture, I was beginning to understand this ideology as tyrannical, precariously held in place by fiat an automatic red flag to its dubious legitimacy. Next in line was Duke Healths vice president. My supervisor urged caution in approaching him. Why, I thought, is the data a state secret? I was redirected to the chief architect of the pledge, who sent me eight studies to read. Unconvincingly, the studies showed differences in racial outcomes without any link to implicit bias (unconscious racism) as alleged. The assumption was that unequal outcomes were proof of harbored unconscious racism. I pressed the architect: I did not see a correlation between outcomes and unconscious racism in these studies, did you? He conceded he did not, but there were social science studies linking implicit bias to unequal outcomes. I was dumbfounded and, as a physician trained in evidence-based/clinical data, I was uninterested in social science studies. I had social science studies of my own with different conclusions. The pledge misleadingly claimed to be guided by science, only it was not medical science. Disagreement Turns Dangerous My persistent efforts nettled Duke, and tension was growing. A nurse saw me reviewing those eight studies at work and asked what I was working on. This segued into a discussion about implicit bias. We civilly disagreed, and I assumed that was the end of the matter. I soon learned that she reported me to the ER supervisor. A few days later, my presence was requested in his office along with a human resources representative in tow. I wasnt asked what had happened or for my side of the story. I was simply told the nurse felt my speech was unsafe. Instead of receiving instruction on the science of implicit bias, I received a hard lesson on how this dogma would be wielded in the workplace. It was Kafkaesque, with the conclusion predetermined, with no evidence presented to me and none asked of me. With the gravity of the proceedings sinking in, I leveled my gaze to his and inquired, Which ideas were unsafe? He seemed flummoxed that I asked, telling me he wasnt prepared to discuss it. All that mattered was my expression of opinions inconsistent with Dukes dogma. In addition, as a doctor, I had exploited a power differential with the nurse who had initiated our conversation leaving her, presumably, in no position to withstand a conversation with me, even though I wasnt her supervisor. In consequence, I was forbidden to speak about or discuss the pledge in any way with anyone while on Duke property. I had been silenced. Duke's recommended reading included a book by Ibram X. Kendi who asserted "the only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination." Around that time, I had reached out to the new president of Duke Raleigh Hospital regarding the subject of equity. Earlier, I had informed Duke that equity seemed like discrimination and a new form of racism in line with the work of Ibram X. Kendi, whose bestselling work, How To be Anti-Racist, was recommended reading. In this left-wing, social justice bible, Kendi famously claimed the only remedy to past discrimination is present discrimination. The only remedy to present discrimination is future discrimination. I arranged a meeting with her, indicating I had one question I wanted made official and on the books, not a passing curb-side consult. To my surprise, she brought along HR for backup. Here is my question, I said, Please explain why equity is a better goal for society than equality. In my mind, equity was the foundation upon which the whole woke edifice rested, and I wanted to know why Americas original foundation of equality, in place since 1776, was being replaced. The president never got back to me with an answer, but suggested that if others joined me, then maybe Duke would reply. She knew others would never join, and Duke would never explain itself. Since the head of HR was at my meeting with the president, I sought a substantive answer from her. Instead, she sent this: Duke leaders have shared with you that these commitments were made after many opportunities listening to the voices of the people we serve. Our commitment is resolute. Duke was resolute, resolute to not answering my question. I asked my supervisor why Duke was refusing to answer my concern about equity, as it seemed discriminatory by favoring certain preferred groups. He said that whenever Duke speaks with me, I share their responses with others. It was true. Was that a crime? The pledge was a public document; shouldnt their defense of it be public as well if they were willing to provide one? I said, Supervisor, do you hear the words coming out of your mouth? Duke does NOT want the public to know why it values equity above equality? How strange. I decided to put equity on pause and test diversity. I wrote to the CMO, Does diversity mean that Duke hires the best and the brightest, or is diversity a goal to be sought as an end in itself? The response I received, minus some verbiage, was, Diversity is a Duke value. Right, I said, but as a goal or as an accommodation of hiring the best and the brightest no matter how it looks? He wouldnt say. When I asked my supervisor, he responded, My opinion is that our emergency department team should be focused on the delivery of high quality emergency medical care to anyone seeking it. This is my singular focus as medical director. Dukes values and policies serve as a guide for me in that work and should guide all of us in our care of patients at DRAH [Duke Raleigh Hospital]. Persistent emails demanding debate are a distraction and consume time that could otherwise be better directed. The ER Is Colorblind I wrote back to my supervisor: It was an important question. It never occurred to me that diversity would be a goal. I thought diversity was a way of acknowledging that greatness comes in various shapes, sizes and colors, and that we should be open to it. However, the goal should be greatness and excellence, not diversity for its own sake. Priorities seem twisted. We should look for the person best fitted and capable for the job rather than looking at melanin or gonads when hiring. Merit is a better way to deliver high quality care. (I wanted to tell him we both knew how silly these ideas were. When a patient comes into the ER struggling to breathe, bleeding out, or crashing in any way, all we think about is the algorithms in our heads for cheating death, not the physical characteristics of the person on the gurney. Every save is cause for equal celebration and reflects on our skill and training as physicians.) I shared most communications with family and co-workers so they could stay abreast of developments. My colleagues cautioned against foolhardiness and quixotic endeavors, and my family feared for our livelihood. Moreover, my wife said termination would be an embarrassment. I was counseled to keep quiet because things would turn on their own, and my meager efforts wouldnt make a ripple. The prudent path was to keep my head down and lie low. The pendulum would swing. The confrontation with Duke brought tense moments between my wife and me. To her credit, she did become a staunch supporter as Duke showed its ineptitude. "The Gulag Archipelago" showed that Dr. Conger that evil flourishes when good people hold their tongues. I had read The Gulag Archipelago, including Solzhenitsyns conclusion that the work camps were the result of good men holding their tongues and taking the expedient path in the face of evil. I knew the equality of individuals was the good and proper goal for society. Individuals were created equal, not groups, and imperfect equality was better than forced equity. I was convinced Solzhenitsyn was right when he said, If one man can tell the truth, and always tell the truth, and never lie, he can bring down a tyranny. It was clear to me that Duke was not interested in substantive diversity, only superficial diversity. Each year, we could propose a change to help improve the health system. As I could find no conservatives in leadership or on the board, I recommended a diversity of ideas by actively seeking out conservative voices for leadership positions to offset their uber-left echo-chamber. The leadership declined. Apparently, its not a diversity of ideas that matters, but diversity of color and genitals. I sensed most medical professionals at Duke agreed with me, so the next year I asked for an anonymous survey of the employees with this question: Would you rather be judged and treated based on your personal and individual qualities or by your group identity? Duke said they couldnt do anonymous surveys. My supervisor and CMO never replied after I showed them that Duke had done so in the past. Told To Go Home I had pushed them near the breaking point, not with difficult questions, but embarrassingly simple ones. How had this whole DEI fiasco been allowed to progress this far? I showed up for work on Jan. 1, 2024, but was instead directed to a room with the president and the CMO while a security officer stood outside. Having done nothing medically or ethically wrong, I was told I was being terminated not for cause. The president opined, You dont seem surprised. I replied, From the first day I spoke up, I knew this was a possibility. I was given six months notice. Go home, they said, we have someone to cover your shift. Im fine, I said, I dont want anyone covering my shift. They insisted. What bothered me more was walking back into the house and facing my wife. How would I tell her? She is strong, but this stung and needed processing. One year later, when it was time to renew my medical license through the North Carolina Medical Board, I had to answer in the affirmative that I had been terminated from a previous position. This triggered an investigation, which triggered more stress and more consultations with my lawyer. Duke listed the cause of my termination as disruptive behavior. However, nothing I did qualified as disruptive behavior per the boards website. Fortunately, the Board found no violation. Finding a new job that would not require moving became difficult. Attaining employment at a new hospital as an employee was typically blocked by HR. I would interview with the medical director, and things would be fine until HR found out who I was. I eventually found a facility where I work as a contractor (not an employee), a little more than an hours drive from home. With twelve-hour shifts and driving back and forth, it makes for a long day. As my hero Jordan Peterson, the Canadian psychologist, says, always tell the truth and you will have the adventure of your life. The adventure may not be easy, but it will be worthwhile. Have faith that continually telling the truth, whatever happens, will eventually be for the best. Dont let falsehoods pass by you. Some people think I was courageous. I was not. With a timid and small voice, I barely dared to ask the first question. It was Dukes pathetic answers and evasions that emboldened me. Its supervisors werent so smart, they were just more fearful of the people above them than I was. As Duke has quietly changed its pledge, I have grown to feel indomitable and vindicated. My biggest takeaway was what this experience allowed me to tell my four children, You will fear something. Fear God, not man. Never shy away from asking questions in the pursuit of truth. Dr. Kendall Conger is a practicing emergency room physician in North Carolina. He can be reached at lawrencecongermd@gmail.com. After more than four decades of authoritarian rule under the Islamic Republic, Iran stands at a pivotal crossroads. Economic collapse, mass dissatisfaction, deepening fractures within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and an increasingly defiant civil societyepitomized by the Women, Life, Freedom movementsignal that a political transition is no longer a question of if, but when. The recent 12-day Israeli air campaign and U.S. bombardment of nuclear facilities have further exposed the regimes strategic vulnerabilities. Research suggests that nearly 90 percent of Iranians favor regime change. Yet change remains elusive due to the absence of cohesive leadership and, most critically, a shared vision for a post-Islamic Republic Iran. The urgent question now is: What form of governance can unite Irans fragmented society and offer a stable, inclusive, democratic future? A Parliamentary Model: Bridging Monarchists and Republicans Irans opposition landscape is sharply divided between two influential camps: monarchists, who support Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, and republicans, who seek a democratic presidency. A parliamentary democracy can serve as a unifying solution. In this model, the symbolic roles of both a president (as in Germany) and a monarch (as in Denmark) coexist with a parliament-driven political system in which real power rests with a prime minister elected by the peoples representatives. This compromise allows monarchists to retain cultural symbolism without political authority, while republicans gain a secular, representative government. Such a structure fosters compromise, coalition-building, and accountabilityessential features in any post-theocratic Iran. Federalism: A Framework for Ethnic Inclusion Iran is a multiethnic society encompassing Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Arabs, Balochs, and others. A centralized state has long failed to address its grievances. A federal system modeled on countries like Germany can grant these communities regional autonomy while preserving territorial integrity. Federalism would allow: Local governance and cultural preservation Resource control within regions Proportional representation in national institutions Ethnic representation in a national parliament would reduce secessionist tensions and foster broader loyalty to a united, inclusive Iran. Secularism: Ending Religious Domination The separation of religion and state is widely supported, even by practicing Muslims. Political Islam has failed to deliver freedom, prosperity, or justice. In contrast, secularism ensures: Legal equality for all religious and non-religious citizens Protection of minority rights (e.g., Bahais, Christians, atheists) An end to executions and imprisonment based on belief By removing religion from lawmaking, a secular state would unify Iranians across faiths and beliefs under a shared civic identity rooted in human rights and dignity. A New Social Contract: Unity in Diversity The success of a post-Islamic Republic Iran hinges on creating a social contract that bridges political ideologies, ethnic identities, and religious affiliations. A parliamentary federal secular system would allow: Monarchists and republicans to share governance Diverse political partiesfrom socialists to nationaliststo seeking parliamentary representation Ethnic minorities to participate in federal governance while preserving their distinct identities Citizens of all faiths (or none) to live free from religious persecution Such inclusivity is essential for long-term stability. Several Iranian political and social groups still struggle with the idea that power must be shared and that compromise is essential in a democratic system. These principlescentral to the culture of democracy in Western countriesare not yet fully internalized across all segments of Iranian society. Millions of Iranians must still learn and practice the values of pluralism, tolerance, and negotiation. In short, to establish democracy, people must first learn to become democrats. Encouragingly, Irans new generation is far less ideological and more pragmatic than previous ones. Thanks to widespread access to social media, many young Iranians are increasingly exposed to democratic norms, civic discourse, and global models of governance. While Iranians themselves must ultimately lead the effort to build a democratic future, the United States and European countries can play a supportive role. The Role of the West: Stop Legitimizing the Regime This transformation will not occur in a geopolitical vacuum. Western nationsparticularly the United States and the European Unionmust reassess policies that tacitly empower the regime or the IRGC. This includes: Ending backchannel normalization Holding the regime accountable for human rights abuses Supporting Iranian civil society and democratic opposition movements International solidarity with Irans democratic aspirations must replace the realpolitik that has sustained the current regime for decades. An Iranian Future Worth Building The Islamic Republics legitimacy is rapidly eroding. Its ideology no longer resonates with a majority of Iranians, especially, young, globalized, and civically awakened population. A democratic transition is not only necessaryit is feasible. A Parliamentary, Federal, Secular Democracy offers the best chance of reconciling Irans historical, cultural, ethnic, and ideological complexities. The path forward will be difficult. But if Irans opposition can unify around this modeland if the international community lends principled supportIran can emerge from theocratic rule into a more just, peaceful, and representative future. Dr. Fariba Parsa holds a Ph.D. in social science, specializing in Iranian politics with a focus on political Islam, democracy, and human rights. She is the author of Fighting for Change in Iran: The Women, Life, Freedom Philosophy against Political Islam. Dr. Parsa is also the founder and president of Women's E-Learning in Leadership (WELL), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women in Iran and Afghanistan through online leadership education and training. SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Former President Barack Obama railed against Texas for attempting a mid-decade redistricting to create more Republican U.S. House seats. On social media, Obama said: "We can't lose focus on what matters right now, Republicans in Texas are trying to gerrymander district lines to unfairly win five seats in next year's midterm elections. This is a power grab that undermines our democracy." Obama, in 2022, wrote: "Three years ago, I helped @EricHolder launch @AllOnTheLine, a people-powered campaign to fight gerrymandering and advocate for fair redistricting. All On The Line is driven by the core belief that voters should choose their representatives not the other way around." That "voters should choose their representatives not the other way around" reflects quite a change in thinking from a politician who skillfully used gerrymandering to protect his Illinois State Senate seat. In 2012, the left-leaning ProPublica wrote "Obama's Gerrymander President Obama may have propelled his political career forward by gerrymandering a Chicago district to include rich supporters." Illinois State Sen. Obama decided to primary Democrat Illinois U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush, a former Black Panther. Rush painted Obama as a born-and-raised-in-Hawaii, carpetbagging lecturer at the University of Chicago Law School, by way of Harvard Law, who attended prep school and did not have a clue about the life of a typical black person. It worked. Obama not only lost the primary; he performed poorly with black voters. So, what did Obama do? He examined the election results and proceeded to gerrymander his State Senate seat to guard against losing it. He reduced the number of those who voted against him and increased the numbers of those who did. In short, Obama rejected the notion that "voters should choose their representatives not the other way around." The change in his State Senate seat before and after the gerrymander was remarkable. New Yorker reporter Ryan Lizza interviewed John Corrigan, an Illinois Democrat who worked with Obama to redraw the seat. Corrigan called it "a radical change." Lizza wrote: "Corrigan remembers two things about the district that he and Obama drew. First, it retained Obama's Hyde Park base he had managed to beat Rush in Hyde Park then swooped upward along the lakefront and toward downtown. By the end of the final redistricting process, his new district bore little resemblance to his old one. ... Obama's new district was wealthier, whiter, more Jewish, less blue-collar, and better educated. It also included one of the highest concentrations of Republicans in Chicago." Again, Obama in 2001 gerrymandered his State Senate district to make it less black, more white, more Jewish and more affluent? Presumably this did not come up during the 2024 presidential campaign, when Obama lectured "the brothers" about their reluctance to vote for Kamala Harris. When asked about his newly designed State Senate seat, Obama was dismissive: "The system of redistricting in the U.S. tends to allow representatives to choose people instead of people choosing representatives. It's just politics." Obama is not the only one to flip-flop on gerrymandering. Common Cause, a left-leaning "good government" nonprofit worked in California to take redistricting away from politicians. Its website brags: "In 2008, California Common Cause led a coalition that drafted and passed the historic Voters First Act, which took a significant step toward ending gerrymandering in California. This ballot initiative stripped California legislators of the power to draw state legislative districts and created the Citizens Redistricting Commission (CRC). ... The CRC is now a national model for redistricting reform." But Common Cause appears to be waffling. Texas is attempting a mid-decade redistricting, something unusual but legal under Texas law. In response, California Gov. Gavin Newsom wants to defy the state law that took redistricting away from the politicians. Newsom said: "If we don't put a stake into the heart of (the Trump) administration, there may not be an election in 2028. They're not screwing around. We can't afford to screw around either. We have got to fight fire with fire." What does Common Cause now say? A representative says the organization is "swamped" and could "circle back at a later time." Call it the Obama Gerrymander Rule: When Democrats do it, "It's just politics." When Republicans do it, it becomes "a power grab that undermines our democracy." (COMMENT, BELOW) Key Points Warren Buffett has authorized $77.8 billion worth of stock buybacks since 2018, double the amount he has ever invested in any other stock. While Berkshire's buyback program remains active, Buffett hasn't pulled the trigger in any of the past four quarters. A combination of Berkshire's current valuation and pending leadership change could be among the reasons Buffett is sitting on his hands. 10 stocks we like better than Berkshire Hathaway Warren Buffett has been the chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.A)(NYSE: BRK.B) since 1965. He oversees a variety of wholly owned subsidiaries like Dairy Queen, Duracell, and GEICO Insurance, in addition to a $293 billion portfolio of publicly traded stocks and securities. Berkshire is also sitting on $344 billion in cash. Buffett and his team would normally deploy this money into new opportunities when they come up, or return some of it to shareholders through stock buybacks. He authorized $77.8 billion worth of buybacks between 2018 and mid-2024, which is more than double what he has ever invested in any other stock. However, he hasn't authorized any buybacks for the past four consecutive quarters, which might be concerning for investors who follow the Oracle of Omaha's every move. Does he think a stock market crash is on the way, or is he no longer bullish on Berkshire's prospects? Below, I'll highlight two plausible reasons for the pause. Image source: The Motley Fool. Warren Buffett turned Berkshire into a cash-generating machine Before diving into the two possible reasons for Buffett's recent inaction on buybacks, let's examine why Berkshire is sitting on so much cash. First, the conglomerate has been a net seller of stocks for 11 straight quarters on the back of historically expensive valuations, which has freed up a mountain of cash. It even sold more than half of its stake in Apple last year; after investing about $38 billion in the iPhone maker between 2016 and 2023, the position was worth more than $170 billion in early 2024, so it was probably wise to cash in some of those gains. Second, Berkshire is a cash-generating machine. It owns numerous insurance, utilities, and logistics companies that deliver steady income and earns a truckload of dividends each year from its stock portfolio. The conglomerate is on track to receive $2.1 billion in dividends during 2025 from just three stocks alone: American Express, Chevron, and Coca-Cola. With so much money coming in, why is Buffett hesitating to repurchase Berkshire stock? The first possible reason: Berkshire's valuation Buybacks reduce the number of shares in circulation, which organically increases the price per share by a proportionate amount and gives each shareholder a larger stake in the company. In other words, they are great for investors. Eighty-seven years after Neville Chamberlains fateful handshake with Adolf Hitler, the West stands on the brink of another Munichonly this time, the map on the table is Ukraine. In 1938, Great Britain and France convened in Munich with Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussoliniwithout Czechoslovakia or its Soviet allyto negotiate the fate of the Sudetenland. The result was a capitulation dressed as diplomacy. British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, seeking to buy time, ceded the fortified and defensible Sudetenland to Hitler. That sacrifice left Czechoslovakia vulnerable, undermined its security, and paved the way for its total occupation within months. Chamberlain, an honourable man who misjudged his adversaries, went down in history as the symbol of appeasement. Nearly nine decades later, history is threatening to repeat itself. The victim this time is not Czechoslovakia, but Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has never abandoned his maximalist objectives: Ukraines demilitarization, exclusion from NATO, regime change on Moscows terms, and the formal annexation of Crimea, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Moscows latest demandsalready framed as the starting point for peace talksinclude Ukraines withdrawal from its remaining footholds in Donetsk and Luhansk, handing over civilians to almost certain reprisals. Reports differ on the role of U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff during his recent visit to Moscow, but whether through confusion, misdirection, or acquiescence, he has set the stage for a TrumpPutin summit on August 15 in Alaskaa meeting that, incredibly, Ukraine and its European allies may be excluded from. President Donald Trump has pledged to end the war and appears prepared to do so at a steep cost. The terms being floated are nothing short of Munich-like: a ceasefire in exchange for Ukraine ceding its most defensible ground. Foremost among the sacrifices would be Ukraines Fortress City Belt in Donetskfour fortified urban centers strung along the H-20 highway between Kostyantynivka and Slovyansk. This network has withstood repeated Russian assaults since 2014. Its loss would force Ukraine to build new defensive lines between Kharkiv and Dnipropetrovsk, on ground ill-suited for defence, leaving the country open to renewed Russian offensives from the north or south. Worse, Russian forces could mass along these new frontiers under the cover of a ceasefire, bypassing Ukrainian positions in any future war. A ceasefire under these conditions would not be peaceit would be a pause, buying Moscow time to consolidate gains, rearm, and prepare the next phase of conquest. U.S. and NATO fatigue with the war would likely curtail military aid, further eroding Ukraines ability to resist. Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has flatly rejected territorial concessions. Most European alliesespecially the Baltic states, Poland, Romania, Sweden, and Finlandunderstand the stakes: if Ukraine falls, they may be next. Yet, as of now, only Putin and Trump are poised to decide Ukraines fate. The stakes for NATO could not be higher. A peace at any price deal would fracture the alliances credibility, embolden the Kremlin, and invite further aggression. At a minimum, European and Canadian leaders must press Washington to ensure Ukraine and Europe have seats at the table. If the U.S. insists on a land-for-peace deal, NATOs answer should be immediate: accelerate Ukraines full membership and extend Article Five guarantees to deter further Russian advances. Appeasement did not work in 1938, and it will not work in 2025. The cost of sacrificing Ukrainian territory will not be stability, but a larger warone in which another European capital becomes the next target. And while the Alaska venue is symbolic for Washington, in the minds of Russian nationalists it may be more than thatanother piece of lost imperial territory to be reclaimed in Moscows imagined future. This is not just a test of Ukraines survival. It is a test of the Wests ability to recognizeand resistthe oldest trap in diplomacy: mistaking the surrender of others lands for peace. If Alaska becomes this centurys Munich, it will not mark the end of the Ukraine warit will mark the beginning of the next, and the collapse of the Wests ability to deter it. Joe Varner is a senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute in Ottawa and the Center for North American Prosperity and Security in Washington, D.C. When Air Force One touches down in Anchorage next Friday, President Trump faces a legacy-defining choice: architect a framework making every Russian territorial gain automatically trigger Ukrainian Western integration, or legitimize Putin's aggression through photo-op diplomacy that history will judge as appeasement. The Alaska summit's success hinges on one revolutionary principle: conditional reciprocity that requires no trust. Picture Putin and Trump holding opposite ends of a fixed-length rope. When Putin pulls toward "Maximum Territory," Trump's end automatically moves toward "Maximum Remaining Ukrainian NATO Integration." Moderation begets moderation. From Reagan's "Trust but Verify" to Trump's "Trust and Stand By" President Reagan's arms control breakthroughs succeeded because verification made cheating impossible. Today's crisis demands evolution: automatic reciprocity requiring no trust. As Reagan observed at the INF Treaty ceremony, verification mechanisms "give us confidence that agreements will be kept." Trump's early Moscow outreach, initially dismissed as naive, proved strategically prescient when paired with devastating sanctions and military aid to Ukraine. This " Trust and Stand By " approachdiplomatic engagement backed by credible consequencesforced Putin toward negotiations rather than military solutions. Alaska must institutionalize this principle through automatic triggers: ceasefire violations immediately reimpose sanctions within 48 hours; territorial demands instantly accelerate Ukrainian NATO processing; energy embargo breaches activate secondary sanctions. The North Korea Lesson: Why Zero-Sum Ultimatums Fail? Trump's Singapore summit with Kim Jong Un collapsed because it demanded total capitulationcomplete denuclearization without proportional concessions. Zero-sum ultimatums create impossible domestic politics for any leader. The Ukrainian framework avoids this trap through the concept of progressive reciprocity. Russia achieves territorial recognition in proportion to Ukraine's Western integration. No total victory, no complete defeatbut clear mechanisms for escalation or de-escalation based on choices, not promises. The Conditional Ultimatum: Putin's Choice, Ukraine's Gain Game theory reveals how to transform diplomatic deadlock into strategic clarity. Putin faces three options, each triggering automatic Western responses: Maximum Territory Means Maximum Consequences If Putin demands sovereignty over all occupied territories (roughly 20% of Ukraine), America's response is immediate: Issue a NATO invitation with an accelerated accession roadmap for the remaining part of Ukraine. Transfer approximately 300 billion in frozen Russian assets to Ukrainian reconstruction. Establish rotational U.S.-NATO training hubs in western Ukraine Grant accelerated EU accession with expanded single-market access Moderate Gains Means Managed Integration If Putin accepts limited controlCrimea plus autonomous status for Donetsk/Luhansk within Ukrainethen: EU membership proceeds for all of Ukraine, including autonomous regions NATO membership suspended but not blocked Graduated sanctions relief (40% over two years) tied to non-interference Joint economic zones allowing Russian investment Full Withdrawal Means Full Rewards Complete withdrawal to the 2014 borders triggers: Total sanctions removal within 12 months EU-Russia energy partnership restoration (pre-war flows exceeded 100 billion annually) Arctic development opportunities based on USGS resource assessments Security guarantees to Russia regarding future NATO expansion plans. The Enforcement Revolution: Making Peace Self-Policing Traditional ceasefires fail because they rely on good faith. The Alaska framework succeeds through a verification and enforcement architecture with specific timelines: Satellite Verification : Commercial satellite feeds and OSCE reporting provide real-time monitoring with 48-hour decision timelines : Commercial satellite feeds and OSCE reporting provide real-time monitoring with 48-hour decision timelines Financial Triggers : Sanctions reimposition within 72 hours of verified violations : Sanctions reimposition within 72 hours of verified violations Military Aid Continuation: Weapons deliveries to Ukraine proceed automatically until verified Russian compliance This creates what George C. Marshall described in his Harvard Address of June 5, 1947: policy "directed not against any country or doctrine but against hunger, poverty, desperation and chaos." Beyond Territory Debate: The Consortium Solution Rather than binary control, establish shared governance through a Four-Party ConsortiumRussia, Ukraine, EU, and the US managing territories that maintain constitutional ties to Ukraine while enjoying economic integration with Russia and security guarantees from NATO. Think Northern Ireland's Good Friday Agreement: complex sovereignty satisfying multiple identities within constitutional frameworks. Local populations elect regional parliaments under international supervision. Russia maintains cultural influence; Ukraine retains constitutional authority; the EU provides development funds; and America guarantees security. The Marshall Precedent: Reconstruction as Reconciliation Secretary Marshall's genius wasn't just rebuilding economiesit was making yesterday's enemies economically interdependent. The Alaska framework requires a similar vision: a Russia-EU-Ukraine Reconstruction Consortium capitalizing on comparative advantagesRussian energy expertise, European capital markets, Ukrainian agricultural potential, and American security guarantees. Ukraines long-term rebuilding needs are estimated at over 478 billion by the EU Commission and World Bank. Every reconstruction dollar creates peace constituencies across societies. Joint ventures replace battlefield competition with shared prosperity. Implementation: The 90-Day Framework Phase One (Days 1-30): Conditional offers presented; Ukrainian referendum scheduling; international monitoring deployment Phase Two (Days 31-60): Framework activation based on Russian choice; sanctions adjustment; NATO/EU processing begins Phase Three (Days 61-90): Consortium establishment; reconstruction planning; permanent institutions activated Each phase includes automatic reversal mechanisms ensuring progress remains conditional on continued cooperation. The Choice: Architecture or Appeasement President Putin faces history's judgment: maximum territory with a permanently hostile NATO neighbor, or moderate gains with economic integration worth hundreds of billions? President Trump confronts equally defining stakes: continue indefinite military aid while sanctions escalate, or architect frameworks making both sides stakeholders in European stability? The Alaska framework offers what Reagan's approach provided: mechanisms making cooperation profitable and violations expensive. Not through trust, but through automatic consequences requiring no faith in anyone's good intentions. Success requires Ukrainian consent mechanisms, automatic enforcement making violations immediately costly, reconstruction partnerships creating peace constituencies, and Arctic cooperation proving collaboration's benefits. The choice is stark: make Putin's territorial gains automatically trigger the Rest of Ukraine's irreversible Western integration, or watch territorial conquest become the new international norm. Alaska's verdict will echo across decadeschoose transformation over temporary quiet, architecture over appeasement, frameworks that make peace profitable for everyone and war ruinously expensive for anyone who breaks it. Oualid El Ouardi is a Columbia SIPA Global Leadership MPA graduate and former senior manager at major financial and consulting institutions in Europe for over a decade, where he advised executives on complex operational transformations across borders. This week in 1784, the Awauq Massacre took place near Kodiak Island, Alaska. Russian colonists killed hundreds of Koniag Alutiiq men, women, and children, marking one of the darkest chapters in Alaskas history. One survivor later recalled that the stench of the corpses lying on the shore polluted the air so badly that it was impossible to remain at the site. Two hundred forty-one years later, another Russian butcher will be visiting Alaska this weekPresident Vladimir Putinmeeting with President Trump to discuss how to end the war in Ukraine. On the campaign trail, Trump made ending Russia's war against Ukraine one of his top foreign policy priorities. In office, he has found the task far more difficult than he envisioned. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly agreed to Trumps calls for ceasefires and even signed a historic minerals agreement with the United States. Putin, meanwhile, has worked to undermine the process at every turn, targeting civilians in major cities and disregarding American calls for a ceasefire. Zelensky remains the primary enabler of peace; Putin remains the main obstacle. Since Russias invasion in 2022, Ukrainians have shown remarkable resilience, reclaiming over half the territory Russia initially seized. Ideally, the U.S. and its allies would provide Ukraine with all the weapons and support needed to win outright, not just survive. Neither President Biden nor President Trump has been willing to do this. Therefore, the best realistic outcome is a fair and just peace that Ukraine deserves. As President Trump speaks with Vladimir Putin over the future of Ukraine, he should have two red lines in mind that must not be crossed. First, the United States should never formally recognize Russian legal control over the Ukrainian regions it currently occupies. There might be a de facto acknowledgment of Russias presence on the ground, but there should be no de jure recognition of these lands as part of the Russian Federation. Second, Ukraine must maintain its sovereignty, including its right to determine the size and structure of its armed forces, how and by whom it is governed, when to hold elections, the international organizations it chooses to join, and the allies and partners with whom it cooperates. Trump also needs to start applying real pressure on Moscow to bring it to the table with Ukraine. In recent months, he has set multiple deadlines for Russia to negotiate, all of which have passed without meaningful consequence. Instead of confronting Moscow directly, his administration has tinkered at the marginssuch as placing tariffs on India for buying Russian oilwhile leaving the core of Russias war effort untouched. This must change. The White House also must be mindful of the propaganda value of a Putin visit to Alaska. Many Russian politicians have made irredentist claims to the state, and a popular myth in Russia holds that the 1867 sale of Alaska was only a 99-year lease. Billboards in Russia even depict maps showing Alaska as Russian territory. Finally, Trump must avoid sidelining U.S. allies and partners, especially Ukraine. The ideal scenario would include Zelenskyy joining the talks in Alaska. If that does not happen, Trump should immediately fly to Europe to brief key European leaders and Zelenskyy. Putin will look for any opportunity to drive a wedge between Washington and its European allies. The U.S. should deny him that chance. The outcome of the Russia-Ukraine war will be a defining element of Trumps legacy and will shape the future of the transatlantic community. Right now, he has an opportunity to secure his place in history not only as a dealmaker but also as a leader who strengthened Americas alliances and advanced U.S. national interests. The Alaska meeting could be one of the most consequential events of Trumps second term. If handled well, it could start a diplomatic process leading to a fair outcome for Ukraine. But Trump must be willing to walk away if the terms are unacceptablejust as he did with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his first term. With Putin, no deal is better than a bad deal. Ukraine is ready for a fair peace. Now it is up to Trump to apply the necessary pressure on Russia to bring Putin to the table alongside Ukraine. The upcoming meeting in Alaska is a good place to start. Luke Coffey is a senior fellow at Hudson Institute. With the semester back in full swing, Athens restaurants are rolling out new hours, deals and fun mid-week events to keep the restaurant scene exciting. Whether you're in the mood for a coffee and pastry run, or even a chance to win Braves tickets, theres plenty happening around town this week. The University of Georgia Police Department was dispatched to Sanford Stadium at 12:53 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6, when Campus Security Ambassador Tabatha Mitchell informed officers that 10 males had hopped Gate 1 of the stadium and were running in the direction of Dooley Field. As the school year begins and Athens is gearing up to be jam-packed with students once again, restaurants are bringing back old traditions, offering new deals and switching up their menus. Heres what to look for this week around town. We propose an expert group be set up to form a national strategy on digital fraud. This group would bring together skills in financial regulation, security economics, cyber defence, and public communications, and an understanding of the Indian financial and security systems. It should lay the foundations of a coordinated approach by the Indian State in fighting digital fraud, suggest Ajay Shah and Nandkumar Saravade. Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff The convenience of India's digital economy has been met with a frightening surge in criminal activity, from illegal loan apps to 'digital arrest' scams. Individual cases are sometimes resolved through investigation and prosecution, but the brainpower and effort on the part of the attackers is improving at an alarming rate. On the one hand, headlines report a significant loss of Rs 22,845 crore in 3.6 million cases in 2024, a 42 per cent rise in the number of incidents. On the other hand, a recent reply in the Lok Sabha claimed a loss of a mere Rs 580 crore in digital-payment frauds over five years. This mismatch in figures points to lack of clarity and a proper taxonomy for the fraud problem. Such ambiguity allows the full scale of the problem to be understated. The State has to do more to solve this situation. We do not individually provide for national defence; we rely on a coordinated state effort. The same logic applies to digital fraud. Ross Anderson, an expert on security economics, has pointed out that Internet security has elements of a public good. One insecure machine can create costs for others (the market failure of negative externalities). The current response is reactive and fragmented. The burden of the loss falls primarily on the victim. But there is a mismatch between what an individual can do personally and the scale and complexity of the attack. The victim is left to manage the financial and emotional impact on her own. Regulators may view the problem as less severe, and banks often direct customers to the 1930 helpline. Law enforcement, with its own resource limitations, can have a hard time dedicating significant bandwidth to these cases. Telecom companies, a key point in the system, may cite low average revenue per user (Arpu) as justifying low effort, when asked to meet higher standards. By default, these problems will readily turn into a spiral of micro-management by the government through intricate regulations that specify details of products and processes used by private persons. This approach is encouraged by the private sector as they get to shrug off responsibility: UPI (unified payments interface) fraud is the fault of the government. But central-planning systems interfere in economic dynamism. Central planning is also a poor approach to cyber security, a field that is too complex and dynamic for a single, rigid government-designed security system. We suggest three ingredients for the way forward. Ingredient 1: Clarity on loss allocation A key step is to clarify the allocation of losses. When the victim bears the loss, other stakeholders have a low incentive to improve the system. A shift in this approach is needed. Firms are the ones best-placed to understand the emerging threat environment, to continuously innovate on precisely how security will be done, and make modifications to their products and processes in fighting back. For this, they have to suffer losses when fraud takes place. While the Reserve Bank of India's framework for limiting customer liability is a right step, its complexity and de facto reliance on customers to prove their innocence often undermines its intent. We should look to more robust, firm-centric models like those in Singapore and the United Kingdom. Singapore's proposed 'waterfall' implementation for phishing frauds is an example. Responsibility is assigned to the party best-positioned to handle it. The financial service provider (FSP) is the primary custodian. If it fails in its duties (e.g. not providing transaction notifications), it is expected to pay up. If the FSP has fulfilled its duties, the responsibility shifts to the telecom company. This framework creates an incentive for all firms to be vigilant. The UK's initiative -- Authorised Push Payment -- further mandates a 50:50 reimbursement split between the sending and receiving payment service providers. This helps ensure the victim is reimbursed promptly and encourages both ends of the transaction chain to be proactive. It creates a direct, financial incentive for banks to be proactive in detecting and preventing fraud through a real-time data exchange, rather than simply passing the loss to the customer. Shifting financial liability incites effective market-based solutions by harnessing the incentives and global knowledge of firms. Ingredient 2: Coordinated State action The second component is to address fragmentation within the Indian State. The issue of digital fraud involves the economics complex (the finance ministry and the RBI), the online ecosystem (the telecom regulator, telcos, and payment platforms), and the security complex (police, cyber cells, etc) at multiple levels with low coordination. A well-coordinated response would include clear work allocation and cooperation. This would allow stakeholders to share information in real time, build analytics to identify threats, and launch coordinated and targeted law-enforcement efforts. A clear, collaborative framework is required where roles and responsibilities are defined and aligned. Without a clear taxonomy, the ecosystem participants across the country cannot effectively share intelligence with one another, and regulators cannot accurately measure the scale or nature of a new threat. The data on fraud categories in Bengaluru shows that a large part of the problem involves 'investment fraud' and 'digital arrest'. It is a matter of not just a card or an OTP (one-time password). The choke points are transactions across payment accounts in sending and receiving institutions. By standardising definitions and sharing information on the modus operandi, we can build a collective defence that is stronger than any individual effort. The way forward: An expert group To attack this problem, we propose an expert group be set up to form a national strategy on digital fraud. This group would bring together skills in financial regulation, security economics, cyber defence, and public communications, and an understanding of the Indian financial and security systems. It should lay the foundations of a coordinated approach by the Indian State in fighting digital fraud. It should have the objectives: a. defining a national strategy, including a clear taxonomy, data-sharing protocols, and necessary legal and organisational changes; b. designing coordination mechanisms and assign clear responsibilities between the economics and security complexes; c. providing a project plan with specific timelines and milestones for the coming two years. Ajay Shah and Nandkumar Saravade are respectively, researcher at XKDR Forum; and cofounder, DeepStrat, and founding CEO, Reserve Bank Information Technology Pvt Ltd Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff 'As we get older, our health risks increase, and this makes health insurance significantly more expensive for seniors.' Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Photograph: Kind courtesy Sabine van Erp/Pixabay.com Galaxy Health Insurance has launched Galaxy Privilege, a senior citizen plan that covers pre-existing diseases (PEDs) within a year of purchasing the policy. Even as health insurance policies for seniors evolve, elders need to carefully select a policy that offers adequate coverage while fitting into their budgets. Challenges for seniors Age-related health risks make purchasing a policy a challenge for senior citizens. Insurers may reject proposals or load premiums heavily after medical tests reveal health issues. Policies also become costlier. "As we get older, our health risks increase, and this makes health insurance significantly more expensive for seniors," says G. Srinivasan, MD & CEO, Galaxy Health Insurance. "As the age bracket changes, the premium rate increase can be quite high, raising afford ability issues," says Hari Radhakrishnan, expert, Insurance Brokers Association of India. Policies for seniors also come with several types of waiting periods, of which the most significant is the one for pre-existing diseases (PEDs). It can range from one to three years. What to go for Experts suggest at least a Rs 10 lakh sum insured with the restore benefit. "Later on, as the person contracts more ailments, the insurance company may not enhance the sum insured," says Radhakrishnan. OPD (outpatient department) coverage and annual health checkups have become available. "Many new plans offer at-home doctor visits and even ICU setups. It's wise to look for plans that cover modern treatments like robotic surgeries without restrictive limits," says Siddharth Singhal, head of health insurance, Policybazaar. Radhakrishnan cautions that such features can raise the premium for seniors. Features that need scrutiny When selecting a policy, the focus should be on avoiding overly restrictive conditions while keeping the premium at a manageable level. Room rent: Some policies have fixed (e.g., Rs 4,000/day) or percentage (of sum insured) based caps. Those who opt for a higher-grade room than the one allowed face proportionate deductions (actual payout is cost of treatment multiplied by the following ratio: Permitted room rent/actual room rent). Disease-wise caps: These restrict claim amounts for specific conditions, regardless of the sum insured. Co-pay and deductible: Co-pay means that the insured has to pay a certain percentage of the bill, which could be 10 to 30 per cent or higher. A deductible is a fixed threshold amount up to which the insured pays. Beyond it, the policy pays. "Prefer deductible over co-pay as it is predictable," says Anita Upadhyay, CEO, Lord's Mark Insurance Broking Services. A deductible increases out-of-pocket expenses but also makes the policy more affordable. "Do the cost-benefit analysis of economising on premium versus coverage," says Radhakrishnan. Managing high premiums Pairing a base policy with a super top-up can help bring down costs. "Buy a base policy with a sum insured of Rs 3 lakh and a super top-up of Rs 50 lakh," says Shilpa Arora, co-founder and chief operating officer, Insurance Samadhan. (The base policy sum insured can be higher, say, Rs 5 lakh or Rs 10 lakh, while super-top-up coverage can go up to Rs 90 lakh to Rs 95 lakh, depending on affordability.) The former can handle smaller expenses while the latter can take care of major bills. "Super top-up is better than a regular top-up because the threshold is calculated cumulatively across claims in a year," says Upadhyay. "Opting for a preferred network can fetch up to 15 per cent discount. "One can also save by downgrading the room category and removing non-essential add-ons," says Singhal. Mistakes seniors must avoid Not declaring pre-existing conditions Purchasing a family policy that includes younger family members (it raises costs) Not checking for clauses in ported policies that restrict coverage of PEDs beyond reasonable waiting periods Not checking for low sub-limits on room rent, ICU charges, specific diseases You can post your health insurance related questions HERE Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients. Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff 'Handling or mitigating a rebellion is not a corporate plan with quarterly, half-yearly and annual goals and results but an aggregation of the effort of several years.' IMAGE: The CRPF's 209 CoBRA unit personnel during an anti-Naxal operation in the forest area of Bokaro, July 16, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Union Home Minister Amit Shah has, on several occasions over the past few months, claimed that the Maoist insurgency in India will be eliminated by March 31, 2026. To support his claim about the 'improved security situation' in states affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE), Shah points to the increasing number of Maoists surrendering and the high voter turnout in these regions during the recent Lok Sabha elections. To explore whether this declaration is grounded in credible on-the-ground realities or merely political rhetoric aimed at projecting decisive governance, Rediff's Utkarsh Mishra spoke to Sudeep Chakravarti, a longtime observer of the Maoist rebellion. In this wide-ranging conversation, Chakravarti -- also the author of Red Sun: Travels in Naxalite Country, an authoritative book on the Maoist insurgency -- discusses its roots and evolution, and assesses how much the situation has truly changed since its peak in the mid-2000s. Home Minister Amit Shah often claims that Naxalism 'will be eliminated' from the country by March 31, 2026. Is this merely rhetorical, or is there credible ground intelligence backing this claim? The Maoist insurgency -- which is erroneously called Naxalism -- is vastly diminished since its millennial peak in 2006, with the active strategy the central government and various state governments. Handling or mitigating a rebellion is not a corporate plan with quarterly, half-yearly and annual goals and results but an aggregation of the effort of several years. Announcing its 'elimination' by March 31, 2026, is foolish because, whatever the official spin, extreme leftwing impulses will not disappear until the root causes of rebellion are addressed. The fact that leftwing extremism has existed in one form or another since the 1967 'Naxalbari' uprising despite massive State response, is a proof of concept. You wrote Red Sun about 20 years ago. How has the situation changed since then? Does the Red Corridor still cover as much territory as it did then? According to the latest government figures, 38 districts across nine states are now labelled as 'LWE-affected', down from 55 earlier. I published Red Sun in 2008, an updated edition in 2009, and a book on business and human rights that contained a large component of Maoist-related issues, in 2014. I have actively observed and written about the conflict for the past two decades. In that time, the so-called Red Corridor, a name given by a right-wing politician and popularised by the media, has shrunk in both width and in strength, but not entirely in intent. What is the current state of the Naxal leadership? Since you wrote the book, senior leaders like Kishenji, Basavaraj and Jambri have been killed, while Ganapathy has retired. Media reports have recently suggested a 'leadership crisis' within the Maoist ranks. How accurate is this assessment? The leadership crisis in the Communist Party of India-Maoist, or CPI-Maoist, is more than a decade old. Indeed, the crisis is also in second tier and third-tier leadership, and even squad-level leadership. Years of intense government operations, deaths of leaders and cadres, rehabilitation through various surrender policies, and, in a few places, improvement in governance and better delivery of the criminal justice system, have all contributed to this attrition. Beyond strengthening security infrastructure, the government cites several civic schemes and youth programmes as contributing to the decline of Maoist influence. How credible is the claim that these initiatives are causing the Maoists to lose ground support among Adivasi communities? It is credible. But civic programmes and youth development schemes need to follow a path of genuine development and inclusion, not a template driven by notions of majoritarian politics, or there will inevitably be a price to pay. In its Urban Perspective document, the CPI-Maoist outlines a strategy of building underground networks in cities, particularly among workers, students, Dalits, and minorities. The government, meanwhile, has popularised the term 'Urban Naxal' -- a label that is now often applied to any critic of the regime. While this has had serious consequences for many activists, it has also become a routine political slogan. Does the overuse of the term risk undermining the state's ability to deal with the CPI-Maoist's actual urban strategy? The Urban Perspective Document pre-dates CPI-Maoist, a conglomerate formed in 2004. Besides, as mentioned clearly in the document, Maoist ideologues themselves admitted the difficulty in penetrating India's urban areas for a number of reasons, from heightened State security in urban areas compared to rural areas, the relative allure of job opportunities, and several other factors. The central logic of the Urban Perspective document remains valid, but its approach is outdated. The current central government and a few state governments popularising the term 'Urban Naxal' is nothing more than a stick with which to beat its critics. That it has massive implications is already evident in human rights violations, the lamentable curbing of judicial redress, and a diminishing of democracy. The IRS said: "Billy cares about two groups of people: his employee-partners and taxpayers. He is gathering information on what enhancements can be made to provide an exceptional taxpayer experience for the American people." According to the July 30 statement, "IRS Commissioner Billy Long is in his second week of a 'boots on the ground' tour of IRS facilities with visits last week in Georgia and this week in Utah." The statement, first issued July 30 according to the IRS, concluded: "The IRS looks forward to another successful tax filing season next year, and we will announce the timing of its opening in the regular course." The IRS statement on the tax filing date, which I later received by email as well, didn't deny Long's comments but offered some hope if you read between the lines. Tax Notes, a publication for tax professionals, posted the same IRS statement in its story online Aug. 5 with the headline "IRS walks back commissioner's filing season prediction." Not surprisingly, the IRS seemed to back off that claim, according to an IRS statement in an article that Politico posted online on Aug. 4. According to the article in the Tax Adviser, Long said he pushed for an earlier date but said that IRS staff wanted more preparation time. Long claimed that he was told staff would "need every day in there. But they have this thing down." Kicking off the tax season on Feb. 16 would mean we're talking about a roughly three-week delay. Not so fast, says the IRS in a statement issued after Long made his comments during a Q&A session at the 2025 Tax Summit of the National Association of Enrolled Agents in Salt Lake City. We're being told that things might not be that dire after all. Gulp, are we talking about a potential three-week delay here? Which could mean many early filers would have to wait even longer for their tax refunds? Long said that the 2026 filing season should start around Presidents Day, which is on Feb. 16. The buzz began building after Billy Long, the new IRS commissioner, was quoted in a July 29 article in The Tax Adviser, a monthly publication of the American Institute of CPAs, as well as the Journal of Accountancy. Sure, we're in back-to-school season, but tax pros already are speculating about the potential for a delayed start for the 2026 tax season. Story Continues No kickoff date is set in stone yet. Last year, the IRS issued a news release on Jan. 10 to state that the 2025 tax season would start on Jan. 27. When will the IRS begin accepting tax returns? It's a popular question that readers search for online as the calendar year comes closer to an end. But remember, we likely have five months to go from now before the IRS announces when the agency will begin accepting and processing more than 140 million individual income returns for the 2025 tax year. My guess? The speculation has only just begun. Fingers crossed, and it will all work out. Don't bet too heavily against the possibility of at least a few glitches along the way. Some tax professionals remain cautiously optimistic Mark Luscombe, principal analyst for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting in Riverwoods, Illinois, told me that the good news for the IRS is that the "One Big, Beautiful Bill Act" passed in early July instead of the end of December. "This would normally give the IRS time to prepare for the filing season," Luscombe said. Yet, there are potential glitches, he said. First, the IRS is dealing with significant staff reductions. Luscombe said it's hard to know whether staff reductions affected some key positions at the IRS. But he suggested that if IRS staff at one point told the IRS commissioner that the start of the filing season would probably need to be delayed well into February, then "that is an indication that the staff is concerned about being ready in time for the start of the tax season." On top of that, Luscombe said, Congress is talking about the possibility of another tax bill this year, which could potentially hit late in the year and also affect the start of tax filing season. "If the IRS staff says they need until Presidents Day in 2026, I would take them at their word, which would also mean delayed refunds compared to other more recent years," Luscombe said. No doubt, the IRS will do all it can within its power to avoid the uproar that would take place with any Presidents Day launch. "My interpretation of last weeks comments is that the IRS is concerned but still trying to avoid a long delay," said Janet Holtzblatt, senior fellow for the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center in Washington, DC. If the launch of the filing season is delayed, she said, it will more likely be due to the 25% reduction in IRS staff than to the tax law changes and new deductions in the one big bill. "The legislation was signed on July 4, which typically would give the IRS sufficient time to implement the new legislative provisions," she said. Typically, when the IRS has had to delay the kickoff date for the tax season, she said, it has been after Congress enacts tax legislation very late in the year. Often, some delays are limited to very specific, complicated provisions associated with the new tax laws. Tax seasons can get off to a late start when Congress changes tax laws late in the year. Some remain hopeful that the latest new tax breaks were signed into law July 4, which gives IRS more time to update systems. The agency also has faced job cuts. For example, she said, the American Taxpayer Relief Act was enacted on Jan. 2, 2013, and had some retroactive provisions for 2012 returns. In that case, the filing season officially began on Jan. 30, 2013, but the IRS began accepting 2012 returns in various phases as it worked quickly to update forms and instructions to reflect the new law. The tax season was essentially delayed for some filers claiming particular tax breaks on 2012 returns. In 2013, for example, the IRS began accepting tax returns on Feb. 10 from people claiming depreciation deductions. Taxpayers claiming education credits had to wait until Feb. 14. "It wasnt until March 4 that everyone could file," Holtzblatt said. The IRS had to reprogram and test its systems for tax year 2012, including all updates required by the American Taxpayer Relief Act enacted by Congress in January 2013. In recent years, Holtzblatt said, the latest opening day for tax season occurred during the pandemic. The 2021 filing season did not begin until Feb. 12. "If the filing season is delayed, refunds will also be delayed," she said. "Perhaps, the IRS can still manage to avoid long delays, but the task will be challenging with a 25% reduction in staff and a remaining workforce that may well be demoralized." We're talking about more than one big change in tax rules that will impact 2025 tax returns a new tax deduction of up to $6,000 for those age 65 and older who qualify; a tax deduction on overtime pay; a tax deduction on the interest paid on new car loans, and more. "The fact that there are changes in the law that impact this tax year means the IRS and Treasury must work diligently to both send out appropriate guidance to taxpayers and prepare for changes to filing to accommodate those changes next spring," said Garrett Watson, director of policy analysis at the nonpartisan Tax Foundation. Once again, we don't actually know when the 2026 tax season will start. The IRS typically isn't announcing the start of filing season in the summer just days before school starts. But this summer, we all started talking about one big bill and tax breaks around the Fourth of July. So, I guess it's natural that some soon will be asking once again: When does the IRS begin accepting tax returns? Sort of like seeing artificial Christmas trees sprout up for sale in October. Contact personal finance columnist Susan Tompor: stompor@freepress.com. Follow her on X @tompor. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: IRS hints at Presidents Day start for 2026 tax season Eighteen Border Security Force (BSF) troops have been awarded gallantry medals for displaying 'conspicuous bravery' and 'unmatched valour' during Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, including two personnel who were decorated with the Vir Chakra posthumously. Photograph: @BSF_Rajasthan/X The Vir Chakra, a wartime medal which is third in precedence after the Param Vir Chakra and Kirti Chakra, has been bestowed on Sub Inspector Mohammed Imteyaj and Constable Deepak Chingakham. The medals for gallantry for the troops, some of whom destroyed enemy surveillance cameras while others neutralised drone attacks, were announced by the Union government on the eve of the 79th Independence Day. The paramilitary force is tasked with guarding the 2,290-km-long India-Pakistan International Border (IB), apart from the Line of Control (LoC), under the Army's operational control along the western flank of the country. "This Independence Day, 16 Brave Seema Praharis (border guards) are being awarded Gallantry Medals for their conspicuous bravery & unmatched valour, for being resolute & steadfast during the Op Sindoor. "The medals are a testament to the Nation's faith & trust reposed in India's First Line of Defence: The Border Security Force," the BSF said in a social media post. Under Operation Sindoor undertaken by the three defence forces along with the BSF on the border, India targeted terrorist and military facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir from May 7-10 in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed. A unit commanded by under-probation Assistant Commandant Abhishek Srivastav was deployed at the highly sensitive border post at Kharkola in Jammu, only 200 metres from the IB. On May 10, Srivastav and his troops -- SI Imteyaj, Head Constable Brij Mohan Singh and constables Depeswar Barman, Bhupendra Bajpai, Rajan Kumar, Basavaraja Shivappa Sunkada and Chingakham -- engaged a swarm of Pakistani drones and neutralised them, but one UAV dropped a mortar shell in their bunker. SI Imteyaj and Constable Chingakham suffered grievous injuries in this blast. Despite the serious nature of injuries, SI Imteyaj 'bravely' continued to retaliate and motivated his troops, his citation said. He was evacuated to Army Hospital, Jammu, where he succumbed to his injuries. Chingakham, despite his "critical" condition, refused evacuation, choosing to remain beside his post commander (Imteyaj) and continued to fight. He crawled unaided to the 'morcha' (post) and held his position. He was evacuated to the military Hospital, Jammu, where he succumbed to his injuries, the citation said. Sub Inspector Vyas Dev, who lost his left leg after a Pakistani mortar shell fell at his border post, and Constable Suddi Rabha were awarded for undertaking a "risk-prone" mission to replenish ammunition to forward-deployed troops during the operation. Dev's citation said he 'suffered life-threatening injuries, but he remained conscious, stabilised himself and bravely engaged in his given task, motivated his fellow soldiers and exhibited tremendous courage'. Rabha stood 'shoulder-to-shoulder' with his commander (Dev) and refused to yield despite suffering grievous injuries. Another unit under Deputy Commandant Ravindra Rathore, Inspector Devi Lal, Head Constable Sahib Singh and Constable Kanwaraj Singh displayed 'exceptional courage' and 'operational brilliance' under intense pressure and saved the life of a fellow jawan, 'whose life was in peril'. Assistant Sub-Inspector Udai Vir Singh was deployed at the Jabowal border post in Jammu and he destroyed a Pakistani surveillance camera amid 'intense' enemy fire at his location. Despite suffering a life-threatening sharpnel wound to his upper lip, Singh refused evacuation and went on to destroy a Pakistani 'heavy machine gun nest (post)', his citation stated. "His actions ensured uninterrupted domination from the Indian side and inspired fellow troops," it said. ASI Rajappa BT and constable Manohar Xalxo undertook a 'high risk' mission at border post Karotana Khurd in Jammu on May 10 when the said post reported 'critical shortage' of automatic grenade launcher ammunition. While replenishing the ammunition, a mortar shell fell on the magazine and the two suffered grievous injuries, but they ensured completion of their task. Assistant Commandant Alok Negi, along with two of his troops, executed 'relentless and accurate' mortar fire on enemy positions for 48 hours and their 'fearless' conduct ensured zero casualties and maintained operational dominance, according to the citation. The government also announced gallantry medals for other police and central armed police forces personnel, who undertook other operations. This includes 128 for Jammu and Kashmir Police, 20 for the CRPF and 14 for Chhattisgarh Police. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader B Sriramulu has invited K N Rajanna, who was recently sacked as minister from the Congress government, to join the party along with his son and MLC Rajendra Rajanna, even as a state minister and some ruling party legislators met the MLA. IMAGE: Sacked Karnataka minister K N Rajanna. Photograph: ANI Photo This group of Congress MLAs along with Minister Satish Jarkiholi met Rajanna at his residence on Wednesday and held discussions. "The whole community (ST/Valmiki) and its leaders are with you, come to BJP. You and your son come to BJP. Myself, Shivanagouda Nayaka, Raju Gowda and all our leaders, we will welcome you into the party and ensure that you will get more respect than us in the party," Sriramulu said. He said Rajanna was sacked for speaking the truth. Rajanna, who was Cooperative Minister was removed from the cabinet on Monday, following directions from the Congress high command, according to party sources. His recent comments on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's "votes theft" allegations during 2024 Lok Sabha polls, seems to have proved costly for him. He had said that voter lists for the polls were prepared under the Congress government in Karnataka, and had questioned his own party as to why they didn't stop the irregularities then. Meanwhile, Rajanna's supporters staged a protest in Tumakuru opposing his sacking from the Siddaramaiah-led cabinet. Congress MLAs Raghumurthy, Basavanthappa, Anil Chikkamadhu, among others met Rajanna along with Satish Jarkiholi and held discussions. Speaking to reporters, Jarkiholi said, "This was just a meeting." "This was a meeting to tell him that we are with him and as part of our friendship, we tried to instill confidence in him. He said he is satisfied with his performance as minister for two years and there is a misunderstanding about him in Delhi (leadership) and that he will go to Delhi and convince the high command." Asked whether Rajanna will go to Delhi alone or whether they too would join him as a delegation, he said, "Delegation going is different from him (Rajanna) going. He has to go and explain to the high command." A delegation will be going to seek filling up of two ST vacancies in the cabinet, he said, "We will ask that they should be filled up without any delay and the same portfolios should be given to the Valmiki (ST) community. This is the demand. We will go after the (current Assembly) session." Rajanna is the second minister to be out of Siddaramaiah's Cabinet, after the Congress came to power in 2023. Last year, Bellary MLA B Nagendra had to resign following allegations against him in connection with embezzlement at the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki ST Development Corporation. To a question on Rajanna earlier claiming a conspiracy against him, Jarkiholi said, "There is a conspiracy, he (Rajanna) has said that he will speak when time comes, it's left to him." Responding to a question on taking Rajanna back to cabinet, he said, it is left to the high command, CM and the party president to decide. The Supreme Court on Thursday said the 'whole problem' of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR was a result of the 'inaction' of local authorities which did 'nothing' in implementing the Animal Birth Control Rules on sterilisation and immunisation of canines. IMAGE: Dog lovers stage a protest against the Supreme Court's order to send all stray dogs in Delhi-NCR to shelters within 8 weeks, at Connaught Place in New Delhi. Photograph: ANI Photo A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria, which was constituted to hear a suo motu case and some other pleas concerning stray dogs, reserved its verdict on the interim prayer for a stay on the directions issued by the apex court on August 11. A two-judge bench on August 11, among other directions, ordered the Delhi-NCR authorities to permanently relocate strays from streets to dog shelters. The bench had acted in the suo motu case initiated on July 28 over a media report on stray dog bites leading to rabies, particularly among children, in the national capital. "The whole problem is because of inaction of the local authorities. You frame rules in Parliament. The government acts, rules are framed but no implementation is carried out creating problem which is standing today," the bench said on Thursday. The top court added, "On the one hand, humans are suffering and on the other hand, the animal lovers want the animals also to be treated with dignity." Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Delhi government, referred to data and said in 2024, India reported around 37.15 lakh dog bites cases -- nearly 10,000 per day. Mehta also referred to a media report and said the World Health Organisation, using government and other authentic sources, reported 305 dog-bite related deaths last year. The bench observed the Animal Welfare Board of India, local authorities and the government had done nothing. "NGOs make a lot of noise but they don't know what they should actually be doing. They should have been here earlier for implementation of those rules (Animal Birth Control Rules). Nothing is happening," it added. Everyone, the court said, who came before the court and filed intervention would have to own responsibility. On August 11, a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan asked authorities in Delhi-NCR to start relocating all stray dogs from streets to shelters and asked the authorities to initially start by creating a shelter to house 5,000 dogs. It warned of strictest action against those who obstructed the exercise and directed immediate creation of dog shelters or pounds and report about it within eight weeks. During Thursday's hearing, Mehta said it was an issue to be resolved, not a matter to be contested. "Children are dying," he said, "please bear in mind a vocal minority view as against a silent suffering majority view." He added, "Nobody is an animal hater. Out of 100 species of snakes, only four are poisonous but we don't keep them in our house. Nobody says dogs are required to be killed. They have to be separated from the humans habitations." Mehta said the apex court would have to find a solution to the 'menace of stray dogs'. Aside from senior advocate Kapil Sibal, senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi also sought a stay on some of the directions passed by the apex court in its August 11 order. Appearing for an NGO, Sibal asked why civic bodies hadn't sterilised dogs and built adequate shelters for them. "The community feeds them. Now you say because the community is feeding them, take them out and put them in pounds or shelters. There are no shelters in place," he said. Sibal claimed 700 odd dogs were picked up in the capital since the verdict and said, "Where they are, God alone knows." The senior lawyer called the situation "very serious", requiring an in-depth hearing. The bench, however, said, "Please tell us the part (of the order) which is offending. This matter has been listed today on an urgent mentioning before the chief justice and for constituting a special bench. So we are here." Referring to some of the directions, including the one asking the authorities in Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad, Gurugram to start relocating stray dogs to designated shelters or pounds, Sibal sought the same to be stayed. Singhvi, on the other hand, said, "What has happened is that with the best of intentions, all the directions here really put the cart before the horse." Referring to data given in Parliament earlier, he said there were zero rabies deaths in Delhi from 2022 to 2025. "But to try and create a horror situation that people left, right and centre are dying from rabies, at least the government should look at its own figures by its own minister on the floor of the House a few weeks ago," Singhvi added. Referring to top court's orders in similar matters, Singhvi said they did not ask to start picking up strays. Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, also in favour of the interim stay, said the August 11 order had paved way for high courts to start passing similar directions. The bench asked another counsel appearing for the Delhi government about its stand regarding compliance of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 and other enactments. Widespread protests across the country were reported following the August 11 order. On August 13, some petitioners in another stray dogs-related case mentioned their plea before CJI B R Gavai and referred to the August 11 verdict. The CJI said he 'will look into it'. A resident of Bhojpur district in Bihar on Thursday called on the Chief Electoral Officer of the state to plead that he was alive. IMAGE: MPs protest against Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar at Parliament premises. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo Mintu Paswan, who was earlier this week produced before the Supreme Court, was taken to the CEO's office by a delegation of Communist Party of India-Marxist Leninist-Liberation. "I don't know whether I was seen as an apparition by the officials. The fact remains that I have been distraught to learn that I have been declared dead in the special intensive revision (SIR)," Paswan told reporters in Patna. He alleged that no booth level officer (BLO) had visited his home. CPI-ML-L secretary Kunal, who was present on the occasion, said, "Anomalies of this type are the very reason behind our general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya opposing SIR in the Supreme Court. Mintu is being asked to fill up Form 06, meant for registration of new voters, even though he has voted in the past." The CEO has asked him to hand over the form to the BLO concerned, who already stands exposed for a goof-up, the Left leader asserted. "He (the BLO) has confessed to his mistake and told the CEO that Mintu's name got struck off instead of another person," said Kunal. If the BLO spoke the truth, the name of the dead person must be there on the draft electoral rolls, the CPI-ML-L secretary said, adding that Mintu is being made to run from pillar to post because of this 'comedy of errors'. Replying to a query from journalists, he said, "We have identified altogether 21 people, so far, who have been wrongfully declared dead, leading to deletion of their names. Of them, 10 were produced before the Supreme Court." He added that the apex court was convinced of the mistake in only two instances - one was of Mintu and the other was that of a woman in Raghopur. Incidentally, Raghopur is the assembly seat of the leader of the opposition Tejashwi Yadav, whose party RJD is an alliance partner of the Left. "We do not know how effective the intervention by the Supreme Court is going to be. The Election Commission has been brazening it out, falsely claiming that political parties are not coming up with any claims or objections. We shall keep helping as many people as possible in getting their names included in the voters' list," Kunal said. Heavy rain brought Delhi to a standstill on Thursday morning, leaving roads waterlogged and traffic gridlocked. IMAGE: Vehicles wade through a waterlogged road amid heavy rain in New Delhi. Photograph: Screen grab/X The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange' alert, warning of more rain during the day. During the 24-hour period which ended at 8.30 am on Thursday, Delhi's primary weather station at Safdarjung recorded 13.1 mm of rainfall, Aya Nagar logged 57.4 mm, Palam 49.4 mm, Lodhi Road 12 mm, Pragati Maidan 9 mm, and Pusa 5 mm, according to the IMD. The rain brought down the minimum temperature in Delhi to 23.6 degrees Celsius, 3.2 notches below normal. The maximum temperature is expected to settle around 32 degrees Celsius, the IMD said. Lajpat Nagar, Rohtak Road, Anand Parbat, GTK Depot in Jahangirpuri, Adarsh Nagar, Old GT Road near Ring Road, the carriageway from Ashram towards Moolchand on Mathura Road, and Dhaula Kuan-Gurugram road were inundated, inconveniencing commuters during the morning rush hour. A commuter stuck in traffic in Lajpat Nagar said, "I was stuck in traffic for hours due to massive waterlogging on Ring Road near Lajpat Nagar towards AIIMS. Traffic was at a standstill for two hours and has just started moving in a single lane." A DTC bus was stuck on the waterlogged Dhaula Kuan-Gurugram road. Cars passing through the stretch were partially submerged and those travelling on motorcycles and scooters were forced to get down and push their vehicles through the flooded section. Similar scenes were witnessed near Subroto Park and Outer Ring Road, Dwarka Sector 20, Basai Road in Gurugram, and parts of Ghaziabad and Noida. Issuing the 'orange' alert for Delhi, which means "be prepared", the IMD warned of moderate to heavy rainfall during the day, along with thunderstorms and lightning in several parts of the capital. Delhi Traffic Police took to X to warn commuters about waterlogged areas. "Due to the recent rains causing waterlogging at GTK Depot, Jahangirpuri, and Adarsh Nagar, traffic on Old GT Road is likely to be severely affected. To avoid congestion, commuters are advised to avoid taking Old GT Road and are requested to plan accordingly or take alternate routes," it said in a post. Aam Aadmi Party Delhi unit president Saurabh Bharadwaj blamed the Delhi government for the waterlogging, saying it did not undertake desilting of drains despite a court order. "Gai bhains paani mein, humari car bhi paani mein hai," he said sarcastically using a popular Hindi idiom to say that his car was submerged. Despite a high court order, the desilting work has not been carried out and the government is avoiding a third-party audit of the desilting contracts, Bharadwaj claimed. Waterlogging management under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's government has gone underwater, he said. India on Thursday warned Pakistan of 'painful consequences' to 'any misadventure' targeting it and advised the neighbouring country to desist from 'war-mongering' and 'hateful' rhetoric. IMAGE: Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. New Delhi's strong reaction came in response to Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir's nuclear threat as well as offensive comments against India by several Pakistani leaders including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. "We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India," external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at his weekly media briefing. "It is well known modus-operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures. "Pakistan would be well-advised to temper its rhetoric as any misadventure will have painful consequences as was demonstrated recently," Jaiswal said in an indirect reference to India's Operation Sindoor. In an address to Pakistani diaspora in Florida's Tampa last week, 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. The Pakistani Army chief also warned that Islamabad would destroy Indian infrastructure if they hit water flow to Pakistan. In response to Munir's remarks, India on Monday said his threat reinforced the well-held doubts about the integrity of nuclear command and control in that country where the military is 'hand-in-glove' with terrorist groups. New Delhi once again made it clear that it will not give in to any nuclear blackmail. The civilian leadership of Pakistan too has been upping the ante against India in the last few days. In his remarks at an event in Islamabad early this week, Sharif vowed to teach India 'a lesson' if it tried to control the flow of water of cross-border rivers. "I want to tell the enemy today that if you threaten to stop our water, then keep this in mind that you cannot snatch even one drop from Pakistan," he had said. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The strikes triggered four days of intense clashes that ended with an understanding on stopping the military actions on May 10. Jaiswal also trashed a ruling this week by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague on cross-border rivers between the two countries. In the ruling, the Court of Arbitration said India should allow flow of the waters of the western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty for Pakistan's unrestricted use. "India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements are therefore without jurisdiction, devoid of legal standing, and have no bearing on India's rights of utilisation of waters," Jaiswal said. "India also categorically rejects Pakistan's selective and misleading references to the so-called 'award'," he said. The spokesperson also referred to a statement issued by India on June 27 that said the Indus Waters Treaty 'stands in abeyance'. "The Indus Waters Treaty stands in abeyance by a sovereign decision of the Government of India, taken in response to Pakistan's continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism, including the barbaric Pahalgam attack," he said. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's lawyer on Thursday withdrew from a Pune court the plea claiming apprehension of threat to the parliamentarian from followers of Hindutva ideologue Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. IMAGE: Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi arrives at the Chaibasa MP-MLA court in connection with a case related to alleged defamatory remarks made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a 2018 rally, Jharkhand, August 6, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The lawyer, Milind Pawar, said the court has accepted withdrawal of the plea. On Thursday, Pawar filed an application before Special MP/MLA Court judge Amol Shinde stating that the defence intends to file a 'withdrawal pursis' filed on Wednesday in the case and added that the 'pursis' is hence withdrawn as not pressed at this stage. "The court allowed the plea and thus the pursis is now withdrawn," he said. Earlier on Wednesday, hours after filing the plea, the lawyer said it was filed without Gandhi's consent and would be withdrawn. Pawar is representing Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case filed by Satyaki Savarkar, grand-nephew of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, over certain statements made by the Congress leader against the late freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue. In a press release issued late Wednesday evening, Pawar said he drafted the application without consulting Gandhi and the latter has taken 'strong exception to the filing of this Pursis and expressed his disagreement with its contents'. The application filed by Pawar earlier on Wednesday said 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 Delhi, placing before the nation evidence of electoral fraud by the Election Commission, the application said. "Furthermore, during the parliamentary debate on the subject of Hindutva, there was a heated exchange between the Prime Minister and Shri Rahul Gandhi, a matter well known to the public. Against this backdrop, there is little doubt that the complainant, his great-grandfathers (the Godses), those connected with the ideology of Vinayak Savarkar, and some followers of Savarkar who are presently in power, may harbour hostility or resentment towards Gandhi," the application said. "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. The Pune court has already granted bail to Rahul Gandhi in the defamation case. The trial is yet to begin. Satyaki Savarkar had filed a defamation complaint against Rahul Gandhi, alleging that in a speech made in London in March 2023, the Congress leader claimed 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. No such incident ever took place, and V D Savarkar never wrote any such thing anywhere, the complaint claimed. Kannada film actor Darshan Thoogudeepa was arrested on Thursday after his bail was cancelled by the Supreme Court in the Renukaswamy murder case. Photograph: Darshan Thoogudeepa on Facebook His arrest came shortly after his friend Pavithra Gowda, the prime accused in the murder case, was taken into police custody. According to police sources, the actor popularly known by his first name Darshan was arrested at his wife Vijayalakshmi's house in Hosakerehalli in Bengaluru. The actor tried to avoid arrest by planning to surrender in court. But, the police received information about his location and apprehended him. Along with Darshan, three more accused in the case were arrested. There are 17 accused in the case. After the arrest, the accused underwent medical examination before being produced before a sessions' judge in the evening, who sent them to judicial custody. Accordingly, the accused were taken to the central prison at Parappana Agrahara in Bengaluru. Following a warning from the Supreme Court to the officials against providing five-star treatment to Darshan in the prison, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara asked the Director General of Police (Prisons) to exercise caution. Addressing reporters, the state Home Minister said, "The DG Prisons must have received the direction. He will have to perform his duty carefully after the court made stringent observations." Parameshwara underlined that no one is above law in the country and everyone has to respect the law of the land. "We must respect the order. They (accused) have the option to continue their legal battle, which they can do," he said. Asked about the government's stance on Darshan's bail plea, Parameshwara said the law department has fulfilled its responsibilities. The top court cautioned the Karnataka government against providing special treatment to the accused in jail. "The day we come to know that the accused persons are being provided 5-star treatment, the first step would be to place the superintendent into suspension along with all other officials," it said. The judgment came on an appeal filed by the Karnataka government against the state high court's December 13, 2024 order of bail to Darshan and the co-accused. The apex court observed in its order that 'A2' (Darshan) is not a common undertrial. He enjoys celebrity status, mass following, political clout, and financial muscle. His conduct inside the jail -- including recorded instances of VIP treatment, violations of jail rules, and registered FIRs for misuse of facilities -- reflects his capacity to defy the system even while in custody. "If a person can subvert the prison system, the risk of interference with evidence, threatening or influencing witnesses, and tampering with the course of justice is both real and imminent," it maintained. According to police sources, 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan of the actor, had sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda, which enraged Darshan, allegedly leading to his murder. His body was found near a stormwater drain next to an apartment in Sumanahalli here on June 9, 2024. Raghavendra, one of the accused who is part of Darshan's fan club in Chitradurga, had brought Renukaswamy to a shed in R R Nagar in Bengaluru, on the pretext that the actor wanted to meet him. It was in this shed that he was allegedly tortured and murdered. Police sources said Gowda, who is accused number one, was the 'major cause' for Renukaswamy's murder, claiming that it has been proved from the probe that she instigated the other accused, conspired with them, and took part in the crime. United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that the secondary tariffs on India could go up if 'things don't go well' during talks between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. IMAGE: US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Photograph: Magnus Lejhall/TT News Agency/via Reuters Last week, Trump imposed tariffs totalling 50 per cent on India, including 25 per cent for Delhi's purchases of Russian oil that will come into effect from August 27. "I think everyone has been frustrated with President Putin. We expected that he would come to the table in a more fulsome way. It looks like he may be ready to negotiate. And we put secondary tariffs on the Indians for buying Russian oil. I could see, if things don't go well, then sanctions or secondary tariffs could go up," Bessent said in an interview with Bloomberg on Wednesday. When asked about China, the main buyer of Russian crude, Bessent said he is 'not going to get ahead of the President, but the President is the best at creating leverage for himself, and he will make it clear to President Putin that all options are on the table.' On whether sanctions can go up or loosened, Bessent said, "Sanctions can go up, they can be loosened. They can have a definitive life. They can go on indefinitely. You know, there's this Russian shadow fleet of ships around the world that I think we could crack down on." He added that even as Trump is meeting with Putin, the Europeans 'need to join us' and need to be willing to 'put on these secondary sanctions.' Bessent recalled that at the G7 meeting in Canada this year, when he asked the leaders at the table whether they were willing to put a 200 per cent secondary tariff on China. "And you know what, everybody wanted to see what kind of shoes they were wearing." He added that Trump is committed to ending the bloodshed in the Ukraine war. "It's put up or shut up time. The President is creating his own leverage. We need the Europeans to come in and help create more leverage," Bessent said. Responding to the tariffs, the Ministry of External Affairs has said that the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable. "Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security," it said. Will Mamata's bhasha andolan campaign sway Bengal's bhadralok before the 2026 election in the TMC's favour? IMAGE: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee addresses a protest in Jhargram, August 6, 2025 against the alleged branding of migrants as 'Bangladeshis' and demanding the protection of Bengali identity and language. Photograph: ANI Photo The political temperature in West Bengal is rising, with state elections scheduled for next year. At the heart of the brewing storm is the Bengali language, as reports of alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking migrant workers surface from various parts of India. As emotions simmer, the issue has struck a chord in the state where identity politics is at the centre stage for some time. On July 21, during the annual Martyrs' Day rally held by the ruling Trinamool Congress, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a bhasha andolan -- a language movement -- invoking memories of the 1952 campaign in East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh in 1971. Speaking at the rally, widely seen as setting the tone for the 2026 election campaign, Banerjee declared: 'If people are tortured and arrested for speaking Bengali, then this fight will reach Delhi.' She added: 'I am not someone who gives up easily.' Three days later, on July 24, the chief minister raised fresh concerns over the treatment of Bengali-speaking individuals. She referred to growing instances of detentions and mistreatment of people from various districts of West Bengal in places such as Gurugram. 'West Bengal police is receiving these reports from Haryana police in the name of requests for identity searches. Have been separately and increasingly receiving reports from other states like Rajasthan about illegal 'pushbacks' of West Bengal citizens with all proper documents to Bangladesh directly!! Our officers have received copies of their appropriate documents!' she posted on social media platform X. The TMC has since stepped up its efforts, with protest marches highlighting what Banerjee has described as 'violence and disrespect' against the Bengali language. A new WhatsApp helpline has also been launched by the West Bengal police for migrant workers facing issues in other states. The backdrop Reports of large-scale detentions and, in some cases, deportations have emerged from several regions, including Maharashtra, Assam, Rajasthan, Odisha, Gurugram and Delhi. In Gurugram, hundreds of individuals were reportedly detained on suspicion of being 'illegal migrants'. Many of those affected were employed as domestic workers or sanitation staff, and some were later identified as Bangladeshi nationals. The crackdown comes amid a nationwide operation to identify illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar, as outlined in a May notification from the Union ministry of home affairs. West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party President Samik Bhattacharya has maintained that those being detained are Bangladeshi infiltrators. "They have collected identity cards from Barasat, Madhyamgram and Siliguri -- that are epicentres of fake ID cards. Our intention is very clear: Detect and deport illegal immigrants." He went on to claim that demographic shifts were underway in border districts of West Bengal. "A silent demographic invasion is going on," he said, dismissing Banerjee's stance as being unrelated to any legitimate 'bhasha andolan'. The language card, analysts suggest, Banerjee's reference to bhasha shontrash -- or linguistic terrorism -- could be a potent poll plank, especially amid heightened identity politics across the country. Banerjee's focus on language reflects a calculated appeal to regional sentiment, political observer Sabyasachi Basu Ray Chaudhury said. "The detention of Bengali-speaking workers -- including individuals with identity documents, and some could well be Bangladeshi nationals -- has triggered concerns around profiling and regional sensitivities ahead of the polls," noted Basu Ray Chaudhury, adding that the messaging may work well with Banerjee's vote bank -- the underclass, which includes migrant workers. Around 2.2 million migrant workers across India belong to West Bengal. He suggested Banerjee's message may also sway part of educated Bengali middle class, known locally as the bhadralok. The TMC's efforts to reach out to the bhadralok are seen as timely, following a spate of urban backlash over the RG Kar rape case and a recent incident at South Calcutta Law College. IMAGE: Mamata Banerjee with Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee, Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim, West Bengal ministers Sujit Bose, Aroop Biswas, Sashi Panja, party leaders and supporters at a protest in Kolkata, July 16, 2025 against the alleged torture of Bengali-speaking people in BJP-ruled states. Photograph: ANI Photo The bhadralok influence The bhadralok -- often viewed as the state's opinion makers -- have played a decisive role in past political movements. Their influence was most prominently seen during the Singur and Nandigram land acquisition protests, which ultimately upended the Left Front government's long-standing hold on the state. While those agitations had already gathered momentum, it was the intervention of the Bengali intelligentsia -- particularly after the police firing in Nandigram on March 14, 2007 that killed 14 people -- that gave the movement a critical push. According to Basu Ray Chaudhury, both the TMC and the BJP are likely to compete fiercely for the support of this influential section of voters in 2026. Bhattacharya, since taking over as BJP state president, has sought to localise the party's appeal. He has referenced not only Syama Prasad Mookerjee but also Acharya Debaprasad Ghosh and Haripada Bharati -- key figures of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh who had largely faded from public memory. IMAGE: A protest against the alleged branding of migrants as 'Bangladeshis' in Jhargram. Photograph: ANI Photo Battle of narratives Despite Banerjee's campaign, Bhattacharya insists that the BJP will not engage in a counter-narrative around the bhasha shontrash agitation. "Our narrative is clear - we want industrialisation in Bengal so that the migrant workers can return home. And detect and deport infiltrators," he said. CPI-M state Secretary Mohammed Salim added another dimension, attributing the alleged targeting of Bengali-speaking migrant workers to a broader class issue. "The attack is not on IT sector workers in other parts of the country, but on the marginalised who are compelled to move out of their home town due to lack of opportunities. And they are being attacked in the rest of the country in the name of language and religion," Sali noted. "Our movement is against landlessness and joblessness," he added. At the Martyrs' Day rally, Banerjee made a direct appeal to migrant workers to return. 'We do not lack jobs here,' she said. As the 2026 assembly elections approach, the question remains: Will the politics of language provide the TMC with a decisive edge for a fourth term, or will the BJP manage to shift the focus to issues of corruption and unemployment? Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff Key Points Pfizer's free cash flow should improve. The drugmaker's lower leverage ratio target gives it greater financial flexibility. New products should cushion the blow from Pfizer's looming patent cliff. 10 stocks we like better than Pfizer Many income investors probably have mixed emotions about stocks with ultra-high dividend yields. On one hand, they love the tremendous income these stocks provide. On the other hand, they might worry more often than not about a potential dividend cut. Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) is a case in point, with its forward dividend yield of 7%. Although the stock is a favorite for many income investors, questions about the sustainability of the dividend persist. But there's good news for income investors following Pfizer's second-quarter update on Aug. 5. Here are three reasons Pfizer's juicy dividend is getting safer. Image source: Getty Images. 1. Free cash flow should improve The most important number for income investors to watch relating to a company's dividend sustainability is its free cash flow. At first glance, Pfizer's free cash flow might seem to be an area of concern. The company paid out $4.9 billion in dividends during the first half of 2025 but generated free cash flow of only $571 million. However, Pfizer's financial situation is better than it looks. For one thing, the big drugmaker had to fork over $2.1 billion in tax payment repatriation and a payment to BioNTech for its gross profit split. CFO David Denton said in Pfizer's Q2 earnings call that the company expects improved cash flows in the second half of 2025. What's more, Pfizer expects to achieve savings in the ballpark of $7.7 billion by the end of 2027 with its cost-cutting initiatives. Denton noted in the Q2 call that around $500 million of these savings will be reinvested in pipeline development. However, the rest could flow down to the bottom line and significantly boost free cash flow. 2. More financial flexibility with a lower leverage target Pfizer continues to have three priorities in its capital allocation strategy. Income investors will like hearing that the first priority is still maintaining and growing the dividend "over time." The other two priorities are reinvesting in the business and stock buybacks. However, Pfizer also has a debt load of around $61.7 billion to service. Cash used to pay down this debt reduces the amount available to direct toward the company's capital allocation priorities, including funding the dividend program. The good news for income investors is that Pfizer has lowered its gross leverage ratio to roughly 2.7. The company's previous target leverage ratio was 3.25. Since Pfizer has already gone below that level, it has set a new target at the current level of 2.7. IMAGE: This time, Ranveer Singh's OTT gesture broke the Internet. Photograph: ANI Meet the Rudrastra. The Top Videos of the Week, listed by Shailajanand Mishra. Also see: Kashmir's 'Lavender Girl'. And India's longest freight train. Videos chosen by you through your likes on iShare. Rising Ganga Touches Lord Shiva's Feet Location: Rishikesh It was an indication of how the continuous heavy rainfall raised danger levels in Rishikesh. All Videos: ANI Statue Of Unity To Go Global Location: Gandhinagar And here's how that will happen. Ranveer's Heartwarming Gesture Location: Mumbai Ranveer Singh is once again winning hearts, not with his onscreen performance, but with a lovely moment off-screen. Manipur Farmers Find Sweet Success Location: Manipur How? Here's the answer in one word -- apples! Do You Know What The Rudrastra Is? Location: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Station No, it's not the sequel to Brahmastra. It's a recordbreaking... Kashmir's 'Lavender Girl' Location: Srinagar Srinagar-born Madiha Talat was determined to contribute to the valley's economy. So, after studying at the Indian School of Business and Finance in Delhi and earning a diploma from NIT Srinagar, here's what she did. It's Movie Night For Ananya, Suhana, AbRam Location: Mumbai The trio looked super-cute. Banner: Dominic Xavier/Rediff Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff Peter Lynch, assistant director of the Brattleboro Department of Public Works, and Brian Bannon, the town's zoning administrator, discuss plans to remove an abandoned RV from private property on Route 5 near the Guilford town line. Vermont Housing Crisis Building through the challenges: Housing Trust's mission is to get people into their own homes Area seniors gather for lunch at the Whitingham Municipal Center. A senior meal program for Deerfield Valley residents needs a new coordinator to continue. Key Points NextEra Energy operates in a state with a growing population and it is tapped into the growing clean energy sector. Enterprise Products Partners moves oil and gas, so demand for energy is more important than energy prices. Black Hills is a high-yield Dividend King, proving that it knows how to deal with troubling economic times while still rewarding investors well. 10 stocks we like better than NextEra Energy A recession is a terrible thing, but also a thing that is quite normal in the business cycle. These economic downturns help to burn off the excesses that often arise during periods of rapid economic growth. Still, investors worried about a recession today might wonder where they can invest to protect themselves from such an economic downturn. That's hard to do, but you might want to consider these three companies: NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE), Enterprise Products Partners (NYSE: EPD), and Black Hills (NYSE: BKH). Here's a look at each one. Image source: Getty Images. 1. NextEra Energy has growth opportunities The foundation underpinning NextEra Energy's business is the regulated utility operations it runs in the state of Florida. The Sunshine State has long seen its population grow as people look for better weather and low taxes (Florida does not impose a state income tax). Retirees are a major source of new residents, which is also a positive given the aging of the very large baby boom generation. In other words, the company's regulated electricity operations are boring, but tilted toward growth. None of these facts is likely to change in a recession. Atop this foundation NextEra Energy has built one of the world's largest wind and solar power companies. This taps into the growth opportunity from the shift from dirtier energy sources to cleaner ones. Again, that shift, which will require decades of capital investment, isn't likely to end if there's a recession. If you buy NextEra you can collect a reliable and likely recession resilient 3.1% dividend yield. 2. Enterprise Products Partners is a toll taker Another interesting option is North American midstream giant Enterprise Products Partners. This master limited partnership (MLP) is tied at the hip to dirty energy sources like oil and natural gas. While commodity prices for these fuels can be massively volatile, that won't have a huge impact on Enterprise's business. It owns energy infrastructure, like pipelines, that move oil and natural gas. The company charges fees for the use of its assets, so the price of the commodities it moves really aren't that important to its top- and bottom-lines. A US judge has approved the divorce of Vladimir Gusinsky and his wife of 33 years, Elena Konstantinou, after an acrimonious, three-year legal fight in which the once-powerful Russian oligarch declared he was all but broke. The ruling by a Connecticut Superior Court judge was the latest in a series of troubles afflicting Gusinsky, who was forced into exile in the early 2000s by Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose government took over the hard-charging NTV, a private TV channel Gusinsky founded. Neither Gusinsky nor Konstantinou responded to requests for comment. In 2022, citing "irreconcilable differences," Konstantinou sued Gusinsky for divorce in Connecticut, where the couple had long owned a $7 million, 14,000-square-foot mansion in the elite New York suburb of Greenwich. Gusinsky now lives full-time in Israel. In the 12-page ruling, dated June 23 and obtained by RFE/RL, Judge Michael D'Agostino recounted Gusinsky at his height of power in the 1990s, when NTV was an influential channel. Gusinsky and his media holdings played a pivotal role in supporting Putin's predecessor, Boris Yeltsin. Forced Into Exile After being jailed in 2000, compelled to give up control of NTV to the state-controlled gas company Gazprom, and forced into exile, Gusinsky built another lucrative business, producing and selling Russian-language TV series to Russian channels, and later Ukrainian channels. That line of business began to falter around 2014, D'Agostino said after Western sanctions were imposed on Russia in response to its annexation of Ukraine's Crimea Peninsula and after a "falling-out with the [Russian] government." That appears to be a reference to a decision by Gazprom Media holding to cut back on buying Gusinsky's TV serials. According to people knowledgeable about the discussions, the man in charge of that decision was Mikhail Lesin, a former Kremlin press minister. Lesin, who was later pushed out of his job at Gazprom Media, was found dead in a Washington, D.C. hotel room on November 5, 2015, under mysterious circumstances. The official autopsy, obtained exclusively by RFE/RL, found that the hyoid bone in Lesin's neck was broken, raising questions about the official explanation released by Washington police and the US Department of Justice. By late 2018, Gusinsky's finances were in a dire state, and he was selling off business and assets, borrowing substantial loans from banks and private individuals. He was sued in multiple jurisdictions in the United States, Britain, and elsewhere, for failing to repay millions of dollars in various loans. Gusinsky drew scrutiny from the FBI, which questioned Konstantinou and employees of their Greenwich mansion about a host of his business dealings. That included his relationship with former FBI special agent Charles McGonigal and Sergei Shestakov, a former diplomat and business associate of McGonigal's who had worked for Gusinsky. Foreclosure Fight In court declarations filed as part of the divorce proceedings, Gusinsky declared he had no income and his only assets were the Greenwich mansion he shared with Konstantinou, and another Greenwich mansion located several kilometers away. That second mansion has been the focus of a brutal foreclosure fight that has pitted Gusinsky against a former friend and employee named Vladimir Lenskiy -- in "what has been described as the longest running foreclosure litigation in the state of Connecticut," D'Agostino wrote. Gusinsky "claims that all of his millions are gone, that he used any money he had to pay debts, and that he has nothing more squirreled away in any accounts, anyway," D'Agostino said. However, the judge also stated his financial declarations were not credible, given that Gusinsky was paying lawyers for years as part of the foreclosure fight over the second mansion. Gusinsky "abandoned" Konstantinou, the judge said, and "candidly testified" that he left the United States to move to Israel for "tax and business" reasons. The judge, who ordered a nominal annual alimony payment of $1, also ruled that Konstantinou would receive ownership of the primary Greenwich mansion, along with various artwork and jewelry that was in dispute. The second mansion, whose foreclosure is still ongoing, remains Gusinsky's, D'Agostino ordered. In his ruling, D'Agostino said he was sympathetic to Konstantinou, arguing that she had been devoted, and wholly dependent on, Gusinsky, throughout his rise and fall. And he cited a passage from the famed 20th century Russian novel The Master and Margarita, by Mikhail Bulgakov: "Like Bulgakov's Margarita, [Konstantinou] would indeed 'pawn her soul to the devil to find out whether he is alive or dead.'" Just before the Afghan capital fell to the Taliban in August 2021, RFE/RL spoke with several young professionals in Kabul who voiced their fears and anxieties about the future. We reconnected with them again this week to see how their lives have unfolded. KABUL -- Ahmad Dawood juggles several jobs, from selling fruit on the street to working as a kitchen porter, to make sure he can put food on the table. Dawood, a dressmaker by profession, had to close his small tailoring shop in Kabul's vibrant Lycee Maryam shopping district four years ago. Afghanistan's new rulers, the ultra-conservative Taliban, don't allow men to interact with women who are not their close relatives. "I took my sewing machine home, so I still sew dresses for some of my old regulars," Dawood said. Dawood's customers arrive "discreetly" at his house on a backstreet of the Khairkhana neighborhood, where the 28-year-old dressmaker lives with his elderly parents. But Dawood's business has dwindled significantly, "not only because of the fear of the Taliban" but also due to the crippling economic crisis and poverty that have plagued Afghanistan. "Who thinks about new dresses when they don't have bread?" Dawood said. A lack of jobs and stringent restrictions of women and girls' rights are key concerns under the Taliban-led government, according to several young professionals in Kabul who spoke to RFE/RL. The Taliban, which returned to power after the collapse of the Western-backed government in Kabul in August 2021, has notoriously banned girls' education beyond the elementary school. Women are not allowed to travel without a male guardian, dine out on their own, or work for the foreign aid groups that once employed thousands of women across the country. No Time For Hobbies "Nowadays, the majority of the people of Afghanistan, including the middle class, survive on bread and tea," said Naseem Karimi, a 29-year-old former teacher who lives in the Karte Se neighborhood. Karimi worked at a private school in downtown Kabul and dreamt about writing a novel and traveling abroad. He described his life before the Taliban as "comfortable," with an "adequate salary" and "plenty of free time" to spend on his hobbies: reading and attending poetry nights. The school lost half of its students -- the girls -- after the ban on their education. Dozens of male students left the school, too, as their families could no longer afford private education. Karimi quit his job in early 2022, as his "new salary didn't even cover [his] bus fare." He did not elaborate on what his current occupation is but said he has since worked "in various projects" and jobs, including physical labor. "I don't have a hobby or a dream anymore. I haven't read a book for a long time," Karimi told RFE/RL. "I come home late and am tired from work. I eat and then go to bed and wake up early again for work the next day. I don't even have time to chat with my family," he said. Karimi, who lives with his parents, wonders if he "will ever be able to get married," because he has "become too poor to provide for a family" of his own. Work Is For 'My Freedom And Mental Health' Zainab Ramz, 26, makes 10,000 afghani (about $150) a month working for a private radio station in Kabul. Ramz lives with her parents and two younger siblings and said her modest salary barely covers the essentials of food and the minibus fare to commute to work. Her "occasional luxury" is ice cream with her friends on a sweltering summer day. "But work is not only about money for me. It is about my freedom and preserving my mental health, [and] it gives purpose to my life," she told RFE/RL. Ramz didn't leave her house for nearly six months after the Taliban took over the capital, just weeks after she graduated from the Kabul University with a degree in journalism. "There were rumors that Taliban fighters rape or forcibly marry young women," Ramz said. "People were very afraid in the first weeks and months, but it gradually changed." "A Taliban fighter once told us that when he first came to Kabul, he was surprised that the people of Kabul are Muslim and 'normal' too, contrary to what he and many of his fellow fighters had imagined," she recalled. Ramz is among the Afghan women who have returned to work in media, banks, hospitals, primary schools, and other state and private institutions. She wears a wide, ankle-length dress and a head scarf, the dress code dictated by the Taliban-led government. "As a female journalist, I am not allowed to have one-on-one interviews with Taliban officials. I leave a message on officials' phones asking for comments and they respond with voicemail. I can ask questions in press briefings," Ramz said about her work. Working in the Afghan media under the Taliban involves self-censorship, she said, such as avoiding strong criticism of the group's leaders and its policies. "We are not allowed to call them 'the Taliban' anymore in the media. It's 'the government' now," Ramz added. 'There Is Less Corruption Now' In Kabul's Makroyan neighborhood, Sara Atazada attends a private English-language course and hopes to become a teacher at an elementary school for girls. Private courses are the last remaining route to higher education for girls in Afghanistan. Atazada was unable to finish her studies at Kabul University due to the Taliban ban on educating females beyond elementary school. "To sum it up: Our lives turned upside down in these four years. The economy is in turmoil. The health-care sector is collapsing. People struggle to find food," Atazada said. "But I have to hand it to the Taliban that security has improved under this government," Atazada said, echoing a sentiment shared by the other young Kabul residents who spoke to RFE/RL. "Also, there is a lot less corruption in the government structures now," according the journalist Ramz. In addition to the two decades of military conflict, Afghans faced the daily risk of suicide attacks and roadside bombings mostly blamed on the Taliban as it fought against the Western-backed government between 2001 and 2021. "Yes, we achieved peace finally, but we also need to eat, we need opportunities and freedom," said Karimi, the former teacher. "For now, it feels like we are missing out on the best years of our lives." Note: Because of safety fears, all of the people RFE/RL spoke to in this article are using pseudonyms. Prior to the talks in Anchorage, Trump said there would be some "swapping of territories" between Russia and Ukraine, but later assured Zelenskyy and European leaders that he will not discuss divisions of territory with Putin. Trump said after the talks that his team made "great progress" but that there's "no deal until there's a deal." Putin spoke of Russia's insistence on what he calls the "root causes" of the war being respectedKremlin language for limits on Ukraine's military strength and a commitment not to join NATO. Russian regulators have moved to restrict usage of the popular messaging apps WhatsApp and Telegram, the latest in a major step to push Russians onto a newly launched government-managed "super app." The move by Roskomnazdor, the agency charged with monitoring and controlling Russia's Internet, is part of a larger, multiyear effort by authorities to control how Russians access information online. In a statement dated August 13, Roskomnadzor announced that phone calls made using Telegram and WhatsApp would be partially restricted, asserting they are "the main voice services used to deceive and extort money and involve Russian citizens in sabotage and terrorist activities." "We inform you that in order to combat criminals, in accordance with the materials of law enforcement agencies, measures are being taken to partially restrict calls in these foreign messengers," state news agencies quoted the agency as saying. The move comes weeks after officials launched Max, a new app developed by VK, the social media company formerly known as VKontakte. Activists say Max is modeled partly on the Chinese app WeChat. For years, authorities have struggled to come up with ways to control or monitor WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebook's parent Meta, and Telegram, which was built by the Russian technology developer Pavel Durov. Those efforts dovetailed with wider efforts to control how Russians use the Internet. In addition to targeting Western Internet giants such as Facebook, Google, Apple, and Amazon, authorities have cultivated homegrown alternatives such as Yandex, VK, and Mail.ru and moved to assert oversight or outright control of them. In a statement published on X -- another platform regulators have tried to blunt -- WhatsApp confirmed the restrictions and pledged it would do everything possible "to ensure that communication protected by end-to-end encryption remains available to people around the world, including in Russia." VK, whose CEO is the son of the influential Kremlin adviser Sergei Kiriyenko, has emerged as a leader in developing not only the Max app, but also an alternative to YouTube, the Google-owned video platform that is also hugely popular among Russians. The creation of a super app would ultimately allow Russians to do a multitude of things: chat, bank, date, hail a taxi, pay taxes, download music, play games, order food, share photos. It would also enable regulators to monitor what Russians do online. In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that all government services should be transferred to Max. "They now want greater control over the information that Russians consume," Mikhail Klimarev, an activist and director of the Internet Protection Society, told Current Time. Roskomnadzor "cannot turn it off all at once, because it would have a big impact on the economy, it would be difficult for them to somehow explain this to citizens," he said. "Society is already under great stress, and then this. Instant blocking cannot lead to anything good." Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to make a deal over the war in Ukraine, US President Donald Trump said on the eve of a summit between the two world leaders in Alaska. Speaking in an interview on Fox News Radio on August 14, Trump said he believes Putin is "convinced that he's going to make a deal" at the summit to be held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson just outside Anchorage, Alaska. "He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to, and we're going to find out," Trump said. In Moscow, Putin praised Trumps efforts to end the war in a short video released by the Kremlin, saying the White House is making quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities and to reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved. Hours before Trump spoke, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was in London to discuss security with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. "Under any scenario, Ukraine will maintain its strength," Zelenskyy said following the meeting at 10 Downing Street, the prime minister's residence in central London. "We discussed in considerable detail the security guarantees that can make peace truly durable," he added, suggesting such a possibility could arise if the United States succeeds "in pressuring Russia to stop the killings." Zelenskyy's visit to London followed his visit on August 13 to another European capital, Berlin, where he attended a video conference with several major European leaders who feared being sidelined by Trump and Putin. Trump appeared to try and allay those fears by saying in the Fox News interview that "depending on what happens" during the Putin meeting, he could call Zelenskyy to quickly set up a second meeting involving all three leaders. "Depending on what happens with my meeting, I'm going to be calling up President Zelenskyy, and let's get him over to wherever we're going to meet," Trump said. "The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because that's going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I don't want to use the word 'divvy things up,' but you know, to a certain extent, it's not a bad term, OK?" he added. Zelenskyy has said he warned Trump during an August 13 call that Putin was "bluffing" about his desire to end the war. Trump has warned Russia of "very severe consequences" if it doesn't halt its war against Ukraine, but fears remain that the exclusion of Kyiv and Brussels in the talks could sideline their desire for the protection of fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests. He 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 said the aim of the talks is "to end the war." Can Trump-Putin Talks Lead To A Cease-Fire? Trump has said to end the conflict -- the biggest in Europe since World War II -- 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 their voices 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." "There are currently no serious territorial exchange schemes on the table.... I think that's 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. 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 giving 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. RFE/RL Europe editor Rikard Jozwiak contributed to this report. Another large wine company actively using AI across a wide range of business areas - from vineyard operations through to product development - is Treasury Wine Estates. The company is using predictive analytics, automation and generative AI to improve safety, accuracy and operational effectiveness. We plan to extend AI usage to various vineyard applications such as irrigation and yield forecasting through artificial vision, says Gonzalez. Additionally, we aim to enhance our understanding of grapevine cultivar and clone phenotypes in specific environmental conditions. As a result, Concha y Toro also intends to roll out the technology across other business areas. And the company has already enjoyed a number of different upsides such as enhanced vineyard productivity and quality forecasting, efficient soil carbon stock mapping, reduced bottling line maintenance costs, and improved consumer insights, Gonzalez says. One such larger company thats wholeheartedly embraced the AI revolution is Concha y Toro. Alvaro Gonzalez, director of Concha y Toros Centre for Research and Innovation (CII), said the research and development team at the centre in Maule, Chile are using or exploring the use of AI in a number of different areas, including bottling line maintenance all the way through to precision viticulture and wine quality forecasting. A number of the smaller wine companies, who didn't wish to be named, said they were waiting to see what benefits larger operators experimenting with the use of AI derived before they would consider employing it. For many companies in the sector, adoption of AI is still in its infancy. The majority of the wine companies approached to contribute to this article said they hadnt even started to explore the use of AI, neither mind deploying the technology. The new technological battlefield for these traditional businesses is artificial intelligence (AI). AI potentially promises to deliver a host of benefits in multiple different business areas. So how is AI currently being used by wine companies and where might we see its use increase in the future? There is a simplistic beauty to the production of great tasting wine. You grow the grapes, harvest and crush them and then you allow them to ferment, with the finished product fine-tuned by skilled winemakers so it dances on the palate. Many wineries have followed the same traditional processes for hundreds of years and the sector has been relatively untouched by technology but this has started to change in recent years. Story Continues It has installed automated guided vehicles to retrieve barrels for blending, cleaning and sampling, reducing manual handling risks and forklift use, and it has also developed an AI-enabled predictive five-year demand forecasting model that enables it to enhance planning precision and helps the company to align vintage make with demand to reduce waste and optimise inventory. In its vineyards, Treasury Wine Estates has also formed a partnership with digital agriculture solutions provider The Yield, which is part of Yamaha Agriculture, to develop AI-driven weather, yield and harvest forecasting. By integrating more than 20 years of historical viticulture data with real-time weather, satellite imagery and crop data it is able to generate site-specific insights, which allows it to predict harvest timing up to 18 months in advance, forecast yields at a block level, and optimise timing for irrigation and inputs like spraying and feeding. Treasury Wine Estates is also using AI to map climate resilience across wine regions to inform its long-term planning and the company is trialling the use of robots at sites in New Zealand, Australia and America, where they are undertaking repetitive vineyard tasks such as slashing and spraying. Treasury Wine Estates' autonomous forklift truck. Credit: Treasury Wine Estates Kerrin Petty, chief supply and sustainability officer at Treasury Wine Estates, says: At Treasury Wine Estates, we know AI has the power to transform the way we work, and were embracing the opportunities it offers. From improving how we grow and make wine to predicting weather patterns and conserving water, AI is already part of what we do, and its role will only continue to grow. As a global leader in wine, we have a responsibility to drive innovation in our own business and share what we learn to help lift the whole industry. This is a pivotal moment to embrace change, evolve how we work, and empower our people to be part of the journey. South Africas Journeys End is adhering to a similar ethos when it comes to deploying AI technology. In the vineyard, the company is using drone photography for vineyard mapping and NDVI [Normalised Difference Vegetation Index] mapping to identify vineyard performance and adjust vineyard strategies. And in the cellar, it is employing a number of different AI-enabled technologies including VinPilot, which uses probes to monitor the temperature of the wine and adjust tank temperatures to the required levels automatically. From improving how we grow and make wine to predicting weather patterns and conserving water, AI is already part of what we do, and its role will only continue to grow Kerrin Petty, chief supply and sustainability officer at Treasury Wine Estates The company is also exploring other potential uses of the technology such as vineyard sensors to measure moisture levels and temperature, etc., for improved application of irrigation, fertilisation and management practices, and drones for vineyard spraying, although Mike Dawson, winemaker at Journeys End, says this particular technology has its limitations at the moment. Thats why the company is taking its time before it commits to something that might have repercussions for the wider business. Generally speaking, we have quite an old school approach to viticulture at Journeys End, largely due to the job displacing it could potentially create which goes against the Journeys End ethos, says Dawson. The financial implications of AI are very high so the types of AI we currently use or have investigated generally aim to improve the accuracy of monitoring so that better informed decisions can be made to improve production quality and efficiency whilst reducing production costs without job loss. Beyond the vineyards Its not just in the vineyards and wineries where AI technology has multiple potential uses. Portuguese winemaker Sogrape Vinhos has implemented AI in numerous different parts of the business. For instance, we rolled out Microsoft's Copilot to more than 150 employees worldwide and provided over 10 hours of training per person in the different tools it can be used, explains Andre Soares Campos, executive board member at Sogrape Vinhos. Microsoft Copilot is Microsoft's rival product to ChatGPT. It can be used for research, developing and editing copy and creating images. Additionally, we developed our internal AI agent, Matty, named after Mateus Rose wine, a milestone of innovation in the wine world," says Soares Campos. "Matty helps our people with internal information regarding processes, teams, HR and more. We're currently connecting Matty to business and market data so that it can assist with not only company information, but also business intelligence. The company is also piloting several solutions with external players, mainly AI-specialised start-ups that develop their own machine learning models. One example is a Portuguese start-up helping our wine distributor, Sogrape Distribuicao, better forecast demand per point of sale, says Soares Campos. This considers the obvious historical sales data, but also weather forecasts, public holidays, people geo concentration information and many other sources. Like Songrape Vinhos, Symington Family Estates is using AI to help the companys employees work smarter. From day-to-day tasks like drafting copy, creating presentations, streamlining reports, and analysing data, to more technical applications such as tech troubleshooting or research support, AI allows our teams to focus more on high-value, strategic work, says Harry Symington, marketing co-head at Symington Family Estates. Its not about replacing people, far from it - but about enhancing our internal capabilities and making the most of our human resource. The company has created an AI working group that spans multiple business departments and is exploring where the technology can add value. The goal is to understand how it can support each area of our business and then roll it out where it adds the most value accordingly, explains Symington. In most cases, AI is being used to streamline processes, save time, and support decision-making by handling large volumes of information and data more efficiently. AI's limits Going forwards, industry experts expect we will see AI used to help introduce further automation in winery operations in the areas of quality, compliance and workflow management, and it will also be used to improve predictive maintenance and optimise supply chains. Experts also predict it will increasingly be rolled out in rapidly emerging areas like climate risk modelling and used for digital marketing and data analysis. But although there are multiple areas where the use of AI could potentially be incredibly beneficial to wine companies the one key area where some in the industry believe it will have less of an impact is winemaking craftsmanship. Our long-term direction must always be guided by people who understand and care deeply about what we stand for Harry Symington, joint head of marketing, Symington Family Estates As one industry source, who didn't wish to be named, explains: AI can support data-driven insights, but decision-making remains with our highly skilled winemakers. Its a view shared by Symington who says his company is very clear-eyed about the limits of AI. Strategic vision, brand identity, and the deeply human elements of our company - from creative direction to family values - are not areas we believe should be shaped by AI, which we consider to be a tool, not a compass, he adds. Our long-term direction must always be guided by people who understand and care deeply about what we stand for. Until companies are able to develop AI that is capable of displaying human attributes such as empathy, its clear that there are still some areas where AI will struggle to make inroads in the wine industry - for the time-being at least. "AI and wine: How is the tech working its magic?" was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand. Al Drago / Bloomberg via Getty Images U.S. airline stocks rose Tuesday as the July consumer price report showed airfares rose 4% in the month, after months of price declines Airline-stock investors endured a bumpy ride to start the year. Things are a bit smoother now. Shares of United Airlines (UAL), Delta Air Lines (DAL), American Airlines Group (AAL), Alaska Air Group (ALK), and JetBlue Airways (JBLU) all soared on Tuesday. The US Global Jets exchange-traded fund (JETS) also climbed, and is now roughly flat year-to-date after declining through the spring. The July consumer price report released early Tuesday helped carriers stick the landing. It showed airfares rose 4% in last month, breaking a streak of declines. Jet fuel prices, meanwhile, have fallen to start August. Trade tensions, declining consumer confidence, weather conditions, and general uncertainty were cited as headwinds for the airline industry earlier in the year; the International Air Transport Association in June, trimmed its annual net profit estimate for the sector. The industry outlook now looks more stable, with carriers having mostly restored their earnings guidance after pulling the forecasts earlier this year. There are outliers in the group. Spirit Airlines (FLYY), which emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March, on Monday said that the company continues to be affected by "adverse market conditions," including weak domestic leisure travel in the second quarter and a "challenging" price environment, according to a company filing. Spirit Airlines' management also issued a "going concern" warning in the filing, saying they had "substantial doubt" in the airline's ability to continue operating within the next 12 months. Its stock was down 40% on Tuesday. Read the original article on Investopedia By Jonathan McCambridge, PA A spate of attacks on phone masts in Belfast has been described as extremely reckless by police. In the latest incident a fire was started at a 5G mast in the Annadale Embankment area of south Belfast on Wednesday evening. There have been at least six previous arson attacks, mainly in the west of the city, in recent months. Our officers are appealing for dash cam footage after a 5G mast was reported to have been set in fire in South Belfast.https://t.co/IhpdQecguT pic.twitter.com/mmqUdJ8lNU Police South Belfast (@PSNIBelfastS) August 14, 2025 Inspector Roisin Brown said: Officers attended, alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, following a report that a 5G mast was alight, shortly after 10.15pm on Wednesday. This is just one of a number of 5G masts that have been set on fire recently and I cannot emphasise enough the dangers of lighting fire to electrical equipment. This is extremely reckless, and those responsible are putting themselves and members of the public at serious risk. The officer added: We are treating this as arson, and would ask that anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact us on 101 quoting reference 1956 of 13/08/25. Deirdre Hargey said the mast attack was senseless vandalism. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. Sinn Fein MLA Deirdre Hargey said it was senseless vandalism on a vital piece of infrastructure that does nothing but cause destruction. She added: Those responsible have caused harm to our community and put lives at risk. South Belfast SDLP councillor Gary McKeown said the action would impact on peoples daily lives right across the area. He said: The mobile signal is bad enough in Belfast without ridiculous acts like this adding to it. We all rely on our mobile phones as part of our daily lives, but some members of our community are particularly dependent on them, whether its older people living alone, carers, or people running community organisations or small businesses. This is who will be hit the hardest by this misguided vandalism. Weve already seen a spate of similar attacks in west Belfast. The last thing anyone wants to see is it spreading to other parts of the city. This has to stop. Ray Managh A Kerry small farmer, who succeeded in blocking a bank from selling his lands at public auction on Wednesday, has won a fortnights grace in preparing a new legal bid to save his property at Knockardtry, Castleisland. Tom Curtin and his wife, Theresa, with no legal representation, tearfully hugged each other in the High Court as they addressed Ms Justice Denise Brett, fighting for an injunction restraining Everyday Finance Limited, practising as BCM Global, and agent/receiver Luke Charlton from selling the land. Everyday Finance, which had obtained a possession order for Curtins small farm on foot of a 20-year-old AIB loan that had eventually been bought by the bank, had advertised it in three lots to be sold online at 2pm on Wednesday by Wilsons Auctioneers. Curtin had approached the court accompanied by barrister Edmund Shanahan, who, on the basis he was not instructed by a solicitor, was not allowed by Judge Brett to address her. Mr Curtin had been told by Judge Brett that she could not go behind the possession order already granted to Everyday Finance by one of her colleagues and would not be interfering with such order as had never been appealed by Mr Curtin. Michael Connolly, counsel for the bank, just before a midday break, told Judge Brett that the 2pm auction had been put back to 3.30pm to allow the hearing to proceed post-lunch. However, when proceedings resumed Mr Curtin immediately held up his phone to show that the online auction had already started despite Mr Connollys earlier reported postponement. After Judge Brett told the banks legal team to check out the matter, Mr Connolly returned to report that while the auction had started, no bids had been or would be taken. Mr Connolly then reported to the judge that, while the High Court proceedings had been going on pre-lunch, an online application seeking a Protective Certificate under the personal insolvency legislation had been made on behalf of Mr Curtin by Mr Shanahan to a judge at Ennis Circuit Court. Judge Brett asked Mr Shanahan if this was true, and he said he had appeared in that case while sitting on a bench in the corridor outside the courtroom, but had been attended and instructed online by a solicitor, Melanie McNally, who had accepted to go on record in the online Circuit Court application for Mr Curtin. Mr Shanahan then told the court: I was asked at great speed under enormous pressure... but was stopped mid-sentence by Judge Brett, who told him: It is a matter for you to ensure that you are in appropriate standing before you can appear as counsel in any court. Stating that she was surprised to put it mildly at the new development, Judge Brett said she may be required to take matters further or consider further options. Mr Shanahan stated that he had acted in good faith for the Curtins for whom the solicitor Melanie McNally had come on record. Judge Brett: You understand exactly what I am asking you. You understand what is your obligations as counsel and the circumstances whereby you can act as counsel. Mr Shanahan: I dont want to mislead the court in any way. We did have a solicitor on record. This particular matter arose for me in terms of assisting the Curtins. Judge Brett told Shanahan it was a matter that needs very, very careful thought. Before adjourning the proceedings to allow both Mr Curtin and the bank to put in further written evidence to assist the court, Judge Brett expressed concern that earlier Mr Curtin had told her that the lands in question had always been in the possession of the receiver while now admitting that he had continued to farm the lands. Curtin said he had cattle on the land and had no option but to continue to farm it in order to feed them. Judge Brett made an interim order prohibiting the sale by auction or any other means of the relevant lands until Friday, August 29th, or such sooner order of the court and directed that the matter come back before her on August 27th. Fatos Bytyci, Reuters Ryanair is seeing strong demand across Europe with bookings ahead of last year, and is "reasonably optimistic" about hitting its summer targets, chief executive Michael O'Leary said in an interview on Thursday. He also praised Boeing for agreeing to deliver some jets earlier than scheduled, ending a run of delays that have curbed Ryanair's growth rate. "We're seeing strong bookings through the peak summer months ... The fares are holding up," O'Leary said, adding that bookings were about 1 per cent ahead of the same point last year. He repeated a forecast from July that average fares were likely to recover almost all of a 7 per cent decline seen in the July-September quarter last year, when Ryanair was hit by consumer caution and a dispute with some online travel agents. Hitting the summer target will depend on close-in bookings for the remainder of the airline's key second quarter, which ends on September 30th, he said. There has been no sign of consumers changing their plans due to heatwaves this summer, O'Leary added. But he warned that US tariffs would ultimately act as a drag on global growth. "I think everybody is cautious at the moment, and we're right to be cautious," he said. Boeing, which is due to deliver the final 29 aircraft of Ryanair's current order of 737 Max jets this winter, has agreed to deliver seven jets in August and seven in September, ahead of an earlier-agreed schedule. "Boeing are doing a terrific job," O'Leary said. He was speaking in Tirana, where he announced a doubling of capacity to four million passengers per year with the basing of three aircraft at the airport from next April. He described Albania as a hidden jewel of the Adriatic. Ryanair, Europe's largest airline by passengers, also announced plans to increase capacity serving Sweden by 25 per cent for this winter, adding eight new routes, after the country scrapped its aviation tax at the beginning of last month. That will add to pressure on local rivals such as SAS and Norwegian Air. Ryanair chief marketing officer Dara Brady called on Sweden also to freeze airport charges and potentially offer additional incentives for growth, saying this could allow Ryanair to double its Swedish traffic by 2030. "The market is well capable of growing significantly here over the next number of years," Brady told a news conference. Tanaiste Simon Harris will meet the family of Harvey Morrison Sherratt (9), who died in recent weeks following years of suffering due to spina bifida and scoliosis. He had been subject to delays in accessing urgent scoliosis surgery, during which time he experienced significant pain and a reduced quality of life. He underwent surgery at the end of last year. He died on July 29th, although no cause of death has been established, his mother said in a post on X last week. Harveys parents, Gillian Sherratt and Stephen Morrison from Clondalkin in Dublin, have been leading a social-media campaign calling for the resignation of Mr Harris following their sons death. Stephen Morrison and Gillian Sherratt. Photo: Sam Boal/Collins In 2017, when he was minister for health, Mr Harris pledged that no child would wait more than four months for scoliosis surgery by the end of that year. In a post on X, Ms Sherratt called on the Tanaiste to think as a parent of young children. While you create memories with your children, I think about how memories are all we have left, and any future memories made will always have a void. While you kiss them goodbye for the day, I think about when I kissed Harvey goodbye for the last time, her post said. Mr Morrison said his son was unique, but said what isnt unique is the way he and other children and people with disabilities are being failed. It is up to us to stop it. By the time Harvey had his surgery, his spinal curve had reached the point where it could not be fully corrected. While he spent years on a waiting list, his spinal curve caused his rib cage to twist around his lungs and heart, severely restricting his breathing. A spokesman for Mr Harris said the Tanaiste had spoken to Ms Sherratt, Harveys mother, on Wednesday and they have agreed to meet in the near future. The Tanaiste has also sought, through the Minister for Health, a full multidisciplinary report on the timeline of care provided to Harvey. Opposition politicians joined Harveys mother and father in calling for the Fine Gael leaders resignation, further criticising Mr Harris for so far failing to meet his parents. Asked if he stood by his party leader on Wednesday, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe said Mr Harris has a commitment to supporting families dealing with scoliosis. Minister Harris, as minister and then as taoiseach and Tanaiste, when he became aware of the needs of the particular family in question here, did all he could in terms of engaging with the Department of Health, in terms of engaging with the HSE, and Im 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. But alongside that, Simon and the Government have placed huge focus on how we 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 operating theatres have all been made available to focus in on supporting those children. He added: Those who are waiting for care have seen a reduction in how long theyre waiting. Were seeing a reduction in the number of people on the waiting list. But we know we need to do more, and we will always continue to prioritise this as a vital health issue. Pressed on whether Mr Harris should be accountable for failures to meet the commitment to cut waiting lists to four months, and resign, Mr Donohoe said: Were all accountable through the appearances that we make in front of the Dail, the questions we deal with in relation to matters of health or any aspect of public policy. Visual artist Liliane Puthod and writer Ingrid Lyons have embarked on a national tour of Ireland in a 1962 Renault 4. Presenting 22 talks, events and live broadcasts across 11 counties, tour de force is a celebration of culture and creativity in the format of a mapped adventure. Ingrid and Liliane made a pilot tour last year, live-streaming their journey in Puthods late fathers Renault 4 as they drove across rural France and up through Ireland. That leg of the journey concluded with a major exhibition by Puthod, Beep Beep, at The Pumphouse, Dublin Port, curated by Temple Bar Gallery + Studios. Returning for a second voyage, tour de force is a nomadic museum on a journey into the Otherworld. CKD* (Completely Knocked Down) at The Dock, Carrick-on-Shannon featured Edwina Guckian dancing on a Renault 4. Pic: Brian Farrell On Saturday, August 2nd, the tour de force visited Carrick-on Shannon for a performance titled CKD* at The Dock. CKD* (Completely Knocked Down) refers to an industrial loop hole during a period of high import taxes in Ireland where breaking cars apart and transporting them to Ireland in flat packs to be reassembled provided a solution in making cars more readily available. In an art context, its a model to consider the fragmentation and restructuring of physical and mechanical processes and practices. Inside The Dock, a collaborative performance took place through installation and storytelling with visual artist Liliane Puthod and writer Ingrid Lyons. Objects gathered acted as touchstones for narratives and histories encountered along the way. The Renault 4 went through a car wash and the seemingly mundane or quotidian act of emptying the car, unpacking and cleaning it, allowed for a moment of catharsis and rest at the midpoint of the six week tour de force. As Liliane and Ingrids performance drew to a close a transformation occurred, followed by an otherworldly encounter with Edwina Guckian dancing on the car to the playing of Ultan OBrien. Dancer Edwina Guckian hails from outside the village of Drumsna in Co Leitrim. Coming from a family steeped in the tradition of music and dance, her style is greatly influenced by the style of local music she grew up with across Leitrim and Roscommon. To see Edwina dance is to understand that great lightness and wit can be carried forward from a rich and dense repertoire of steps, rhythms and refrains. Outside The Dock, the freshly spruced Renault 4 set the scene for a meditation on obsolescence and endurance; an embodied response and expression of the dovetailing between old and new worlds of tradition and industry. 30 Killed In Cloudburst In J&K's, Farooq Abdullah Appeals PM To Take Global Warming 'Very Seriously' Chashoti village is the last road en route to Machail Mata yatra in the district. 30 killed in cloudburst hit Chashoti village in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district latest news: As a massive cloudburst hit Chashoti, a village in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar, leaving many injured and several dead, JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah urged the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take the issue of global warming very seriously. Advertisement Talking to the media on the flash flood in the Chashoti area, Farooq Abdullah said, "I would like to tell the Prime Minister to take the issue of global warming very seriously. This has become very common in hilly areas. One or the other method will have to be looked for to overcome this. So, I appeal to him to think in this hour of grief about how this can be remedied." Dr. Yudhveer Singh Kotwal, Medical Superintendent of the district hospital, says, "According to the latest updates, 28 patients have been referred to the hospital so far, and nine more are on the way. We are making all necessary arrangements". Calling the incident very unfortunate, he said, Cloudbursts have become a routine in our mountain areas. You saw this in Uttarakhand; you saw the damage there. It happened in Ramban last year. This time, it happened on the route of Machail Mata Yatra. Lakhs of people undertake this Yatra... Advertisement We hope that IAF helicopters can go there and retrieve the injured. Villages and the temple area have suffered damage...Rescue operation is underway...We hope that the death toll is not very high..." he added. According to PTIs latest updates, thirty bodies have been recovered from the cloudburst strikes. It said citing officials. The death toll could go up, as the rescue and search operations are underway. Thirty bodies recovered as cloudburst strikes remote mountain village in J-K's Kishtwar district: Officials. pic.twitter.com/ltybgstEZ9 Advertisement August 14, 2025 Chashoti village is the last road en route to Machail Mata yatra in the district and when the incident occurred, the annual yatra was underway. Following the incident, the authorities have suspended the yatra. (For more news apart from '30 Killed In Cloudburst In J&K's, Farooq Abdullah Appeals PM To Take Global Warming 'Very Seriously',' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) 12 bodies recovered after Massive cloudburst hit Chasoti village in Jammu & Kashmir's Kishtwar Officials said the flash floods have hit several houses as it is dense hamlet located at the foothill. Chasoti village, Jammu & Kashmirs Kishtwar cloudburst death toll, Latest News 12 bodies have been recovered from the cloudburst-hit village in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district, PTI reported, citing officials. The death toll could go up, it said. Advertisement A massive cloudburst struck a remote village, Chasoti, en route to the Machail Mata yatra in Kishtwar district on Thursday. According to PTI, Chasoti is the last motorable village en route to the shrine. The annual yatra to the shrine has been suspended following the incident. Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar told ANI that around 11.30 am, they received information that a cloudburst occurred in the Chashoti area in Kishtwar. He added, "SRDF, local police and administration reached the spot. The NDRF team is also about to reach the spot. The army, air force teams have also been activated. Search and rescue operations are underway..." Advertisement Two National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been rushed to the area to conduct rescue operations. According to the Hindu, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha expressed condolences to the bereaved families. VIDEO | Kishtwar, Himachal Pradesh: Massive cloudburst hits the region; visuals show extensive damage and panic in affected areas. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/5K36ADrKqh Advertisement August 14, 2025 Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected, he said on X as quoted in the report. Commissioner, Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, along with Senior Superintendent of Police Naresh Singh were heading to the cloudburst-hit area. Union Minister Jitendra Singh said he spoke to DC Kishtwar Sh Pankaj Kumar Sharma after receiving an urgent message from LoP #JammuAndKashmir and local MLA Sh Sunil Kumar Sharma. Advertisement Massive cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualties. Administration has immediately swung into action, rescue team has left for the site. Damage evaluation and necessary rescue and medical management arrangements being made, he said in a post on X. My office is receiving regular updates; all possible assistance will be provided, he added. According to the Hindu report, Officials said the flash floods have hit several houses as it is dense hamlet located at the foothill. Home Minister said he spoke to the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. He said that the local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations and that NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. "We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need." Union Minister Jitendra Singh, speaking to the media, said, "We were in the middle of a media briefing at the National Media Centre when I received an urgent message from the Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly, who is also the local MLA from that region in Kishtwar. He was upset and in a state of panic. He informed me about a massive cloudburst in the area he represents, which is also likely along the route of the popular Machail Mata Yatra held at this time of year." "The cloudburst is of a massive scale and could result in substantial casualties, though the exact figures are yet to be confirmed. We immediately contacted the district administration, which too was taken by surprise. They have already begun moving towards the site, which is difficult to access due to challenging topography and location. The rescue teams have already swung into action," he added. "Very soon, we'll get more details," he said, adding, "My office, my team, and I are all in touch with each other. Every possible assistance will be provided, including medical management." the minister assured that injured who need to be shifted out, will be airlifted through helicopters, subject to weather conditions." BJD Chief Naveen Patnaik said he is 'deeply saddened" by the loss of so many "precious lives" in the cloudburst."My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families during this difficult time, and pray for the speedy recovery of those who have sustained injuries. We pray to Lord Jagannatha to offer strength to the families who faced the natures fury and salute the rescue personnel for their efforts to save precious lives." Meanwhile, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who said he briefed Home Minister Amit Shah about the developing situation in the region, noted, "The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations. Im not going to be speaking to channels or news agencies. The government will share information as & when possible." JKNC chief Farooq Abdullah, commenting on the devastating situation, highlighted that cloudbursts have become a 'routine' in the mountains and said that lakhs of people take the yatra where the cloudburst has hit today. Speaking to Media, he said, "This is a very unfortunate incident. Cloudbursts have become a routine in our mountain areas. You saw this in Uttarakhand, you saw the damage there. It happened in Ramban last year. This time, it happened on the route of Machail Mata Yatra. Lakhs of people undertake this Yatra...We hope that IAF helicopters are able to go there and retrieve the injured. Villages and the temple area have suffered damage...Rescue operation is underway...We hope that the death toll is not very high..." Further details are awaited. (For more news apart from '12 bodies recovered after Massive cloudburst hit Chasoti village in Jammu & Kashmirs Kishtwar ,' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Key Points Shares of American Eagle have been rallying due to a new ad campaign featuring actress and producer Sydney Sweeney. Critics decry a lack of diversity in the campaign. The added attention could boost sales. 10 stocks we like better than American Eagle Outfitters When retail investors get excited about a stock, that can send its shares soaring quickly. And sometimes it's an unexpected catalyst that sends a stock off to the races. One stock that I'm watching closely right now because I believe it has the potential to skyrocket is American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE: AEO). As of the end of last week, the stock was down more than 25% since January. But with a popular ad campaign raising eyebrows and gaining the attention of the public, the stock has begun to rally, and there could potentially be much more upside in the future. Not Sydney Sweeney. Image source: Getty Images. American Eagle's Sydney Sweeney ad campaign has made the brand a hot topic An ad campaign featuring a popular actress wearing a company's jeans may not seem controversial. But in 2025, it is. In recent years, companies have opted for more inclusive and diversified ad campaigns but American Eagle's new ad campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney this year is seemingly taking a different approach and going back to a more conventional strategy, featuring an attractive young white woman in its jeans. The campaign says "Sydney Sweeney has great (American Eagle) jeans." People are seeing it as both a way to say the brand's jeans are great, and also that Sweeney -- who's been called a "blonde bombshell" -- has great genes. A social media post by President Donald Trump fanned the flames as it said partly that "Sydney Sweeney, a registered Republican, has the 'HOTTEST' ad out there. It's for American Eagle, and the jeans are 'flying off the shelves.' Go get 'em Sydney!" The company itself said the campaign has "cheeky energy," and it's certainly created a debate around the direction the business is going in, and whether American Eagle may alienate existing customers. But at the same time, people are talking about the company like never before. It's attracting attention, and that may lead to an uptick in sales, which could be crucial in retail, at a time when consumers are struggling and cutting back on discretionary purchases. A sales boost won't be evident for a while American Eagle arguably needs to take a chance, as the company's sales have been lackluster. In its first-quarter results, for the period ending May 3, its net revenue came in just under $1.1 billion, which was a decline of around 5% from the prior-year period. And in its most recent fiscal year, which ended on Feb. 1, sales totaled $5.3 billion and were up just 1% year over year. JK's Kishtawar Clouburst: Minister Jitendra Singh Says, 'Rescue teams struggling to reach the spot' Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, told ANI that they received the information around 11.30 am. Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district Clouburst Latest Updates Union Minister Jitendra Singh, in an update on the cloudburst that occurred early Thursday in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district, said that additional rescue teams are finding it difficult to reach the scene due to roads being washed away. Advertisement The Chasoti village, where a massive cloudburst hit early today, is the last motorable village en route to the Machail Mata yatra, which was underway when the cloudburst hit. Twelve bodies have been recovered from the incident so far, as reported by PTI, and it is feared that the death toll could go up as the annual Yatra is taken up by a large number of devotees around this time to the shrine. In the update, Union Minister Jitendra Singh on X, said, Just now received a call from LoP J&K and local MLA Sh Sunil Kumar Sharma. Also spoke to CM Omar Abdullarh. The additional rescue teams are finding it difficult to reach the site of the cloud burst, yet they are trying despite all the constraints. Road has been washed off and the weather is not helicopter-worthy. Meanwhile, SDRF and NDRF support is being mobilised. I have expressed my keenness to be on the spot, but have been advised both by the LoP and the CM to hold on till it is feasible to travel. While I am coordinating with the Central authorities, I have also made a request to allow me to travel if by any chance the Air Force authorities could try a helicopter sortie, he added. Advertisement Minister Jitendra Singh, speaking to the media, said, We were in the middle of a media briefing at the National Media Centre when I received an urgent message from the Leader of Opposition in the J&K Assembly, who is also the local MLA from that region in Kishtwar. He was upset and in a state of panic. He informed me about a massive cloudburst in the area he represents, the Minister added. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has briefed Home Minister Amit Shah about the developing situation in the region. He said, "The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving. He ensured that all possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations. Im not going to be speaking to channels or news agencies. The government will share information as & when possible," Omar added in a post on X. Advertisement Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, told ANI that they received the information around 11.30 am. (For more news apart from 'JKs Kishtawar Clouburst: Minister Jitendra Singh Says, 'Rescue teams struggling to reach the spot',' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) JK CM Omar Abdullah Cancels Cultural Events On Independence Day, After Clound Burst That Killed 30 However, he said, the formal events - speech, march past etc, will go ahead as planned. JK CM Omar Abdullah Cancels Cultural Events On Independence Day After Cloud Burst Latest News Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Thursday evening, in light of the tragedy caused by the cloud burst in a village in Kishtwar district, announced the cancellations of cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations tomorrow. Advertisement Taking to X, he wrote, In light of the tragedy caused by the cloud burst in Kishtwar, I have taken the decision to cancel the 'At Home' tea party tomorrow evening. We have also decided not to go ahead with the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. However, he said, the formal events - speech, march past etc, will go ahead as planned. Thirty bodies have been recovered from the devastating incident that unfolded this morning in the village, Chasoti, which is the last motorable road en route to Machail Mata yatra in the district, according to PTI, which cited officials. Advertisement Earlier, J&K CM, Omar Abdullah, spoke to Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the developing situation in the Kishtwar region of Jammu, he informed in a social media post. He added, The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations. Im not going to be speaking to channels or news agencies. The government will share information as & when possible. Rescue and search operations are underway. Advertisement (For more news apart from 'JK CM Omar Abdullah Cancels Cultural Events On Independence Day, After Clound Burst That Killed 30,' stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) August 14, 2025 UPDATE A roundup of local and international news. August 14, 2025 UPDATE Newsroom, 14.08.2025, 19:59 Rating. Romania is awaiting Fridays decision by the International Financial Rating Agency Fitch on the countrys rating. Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare estimates that, following the measures taken so far by the authorities in Bucharest, it will be reconfirmed at BBB- with a negative outlook. He also said that the deficit level of 7.1% of the GDP forecast in this years budget will not be reached. In 2024, Romania had the largest budget deficit in the European Union over 9.3% of the GDP. The governor of the National Bank, Mugur Isarescu, has warned that Romania is unlikely to meet this years deficit target of 7%, but added that the downward trend would be a very good sign. Reforms. Prime minister Ilie Bolojan on Thursday had talks with local mayors about the main measures of the local administration reform bill, as part of the governments second fiscal package aimed at reducing the budget deficit. The talks focused on ways to cut staff expenses by cutting jobs, property tax and expanding digitalisation. Bolojan also said that by cutting expenses and showing greater responsibility towards public money there is a big chance to overcome this difficult period. Mayors, however, were unhappy with the measures proposed. In another move, development minister Cseke Attila assured mayors that funding as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan will not be halted for any of the projects where works are under way, but only for projects that have not yet begun. Protests. In Romania, teachers have continued their street protests demanding the repeal of fiscal and budgetary measures affecting the education system. Trade unionists are particularly dissatisfied with the increase in working hours and class sizes. They point out that the measure to merge educational institutions will create numerous problems not only for teachers and principals, but also for parents and children. The measures taken by the government are based on the current possibilities of Romanias budget and the realities of the education system, said Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan at this weeks meeting with representatives of the Education Trade Union Federations. He asked the Ministry of Education to analyse the implementation of the new regulations and, where problems arise, to propose specific solutions to address them. Summit. US president Donald Trump said he believed his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is ready to make a deal to end war in Ukraine, but that such a deal can only be agreed after a meeting also attended by Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump is holding a meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday, which the US president does not rule out may end in failure, according to France Presse and Reuters. Previously, Trump again warned Russia of severe consequences if Vladimir Putin does not agree to end war in Ukraine. On the other hand, Vladimir Putin hailed the United States sincere efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine and suggested that Moscow and Washington may reach a new agreement on nuclear arms control, according to France Presse and Reuters. Russia and the United States possess the biggest nuclear arms arsenals in the world. The latest nuclear disarmament agreement between the two countries is the New Strategic Arms Reduction treaty, which will expire on 5th February 2026. (CM) What kind of agreement would be needed for Ukraine? European leaders have presented a series of conditions to be met for a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia Photo: pixabay.com Leyla Cheamil, 14.08.2025, 14:00 A series of meetings for Ukraine and its future have taken place both physically and online between the Western leaders ahead of the upcoming Trump-Putin summit in Alaska. One of these involved the participation of the Coalition of the Willing, which brings together EU and NATO members, which are supporting Ukraine in the war commenced by the Russian Federation. Romania was represented by its president Nicusor Dan who said that for Bucharest, coordination and trans-Atlantic unity are essential. Dan hailed the initiative of US President Donald Trump to put an end to this aggression and bring durable peace to Ukraine. We all agree that a ceasefire must be reached before any talks begin, president Nicusor Dan said adding that the way peace is achieved is extremely important to Romania as a neighbour with the largest ground border with Ukraine, as it is for the entire Europe. The future and security of our continent, including the Black Sea region are at stake. Thats why we need a peace to take into consideration the interests of Ukraine and Europe. At the same time we agree that any deal should be accompanied by solid security guarantees for Ukraine, the Romanian president said in his message. At a videoconference held by a group of European leaders with the US President Donald Trump, which was also attended by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, they reiterated the conditions needed for a peace deal with Russia. A ceasefire must come first in any agreement, German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz told a news conference in Berlin shortly after the aforementioned videoconference. Merz has called for robust security guarantees for Ukraine and for continued support of its defence capabilities. At the same time, the European leaders asked that any future talks become part of a joint Transatlantic strategy. Another condition is related to territorial issues. A legal recognition of Russian occupation was not up for discussion. The principle that border must not be changed by force must be upheld, Merz went on to say. In turn French President, Emmanuel Macron, says the territorial issues related to Ukraine, must be negotiated only by the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky. In Macrons opinion there are no schemes for territory swaps on the table. Russia has earlier called on Ukraine to officially cede it the four regions partially controlled by the Russian army Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson as well as the Crimean peninsula annexed in 2014, give up its NATO-joining aspirations and trim its military capabilities. (bill) Air Canada is bracing for widespread travel chaos this weekend as it moves to lock out 10,000 flight attendants following a 72-hour strike notice from their union. The first flight cancellations are set to begin Thursday, with a full suspension of mainline operations anticipated by Saturday. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing the cabin crew, said 99.7 percent of members backed the strike over unresolved disputes on wages, unpaid work, and cost-of-living protections. "Air Canada's response to our proposals makes one thing clear: they are not interested in resolving these critical issues," said Wesley Lesosky, president of CUPE's Air Canada Component. The airline, which operates nearly 430 daily flights between Canada and the U.S. and serves 130,000 passengers each day, said it had offered a 38 percent pay increase over four years along with added benefits. Air Canada accused CUPE of demanding "exorbitant increases" and rejecting binding third-party arbitration. Cancellations will escalate over three days, leading to a complete halt on Saturday. Air Canada Express, which handles about 20 percent of daily passengers, will not be affected. Customers on canceled flights will receive full refunds, with alternative travel arranged through other carriers where possible. Federal Labour Minister Patty Hajdu urged both sides to remain at the table, with mediators on standby. The dispute, unfolding at the peak of the summer travel season, threatens to disrupt Air Canada's operations across its 64-country network, stranding tens of thousands of travelers. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed suit against Early Warning Services, operator of the Zelle payment network, accusing the company of enabling scammers to steal more than $1 billion from users between 2017 and 2023. Filed in New York State Supreme Court, the complaint alleges EWS knowingly launched Zelle without essential security safeguards, ignored warnings about its susceptibility to fraud, and failed to impose effective anti-fraud protocols on its partner banks. EWS, jointly owned by major U.S. lenders including JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Capital One, and Wells Fargo, allegedly allowed criminals to exploit Zelle's rapid sign-up process, which lacked meaningful identity verification. This made it easier for fraudsters to impersonate businesses or government agencies. Because Zelle transfers are irreversible, victims often had no recourse such as one New Yorker who lost $1,500 to a fake utility account. James is seeking restitution, damages, and a court order compelling Zelle to implement stronger security measures. "No one should be left to fend for themselves after falling victim to a scam," she said. A Zelle spokesperson rejected the lawsuit as a "political stunt" and "copycat" of a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau case dismissed in March, claiming more than 99.95 percent of Zelle transactions are completed without fraud. The case intensifies scrutiny of peer-to-peer payment services amid mounting concerns over consumer protection in digital finance. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News The UK expanded more than expected in the second quarter but the overall growth softened as the US frontloading had propelled growth at the start of the year. Gross domestic product expanded 0.3 percent in the second quarter largely driven by growth in the service sector, the Office for National Statistics reported Thursday. Although the rate was stronger than the expected growth of 0.1 percent, it eased markedly from 0.7 percent in the first quarter. "Some activity was brought forward to February and March ahead of changes to stamp duty in April and announced US tariff changes," the ONS said. Services output rose 0.4 percent from the first quarter and construction climbed 1.2 percent. But production reported a 0.3 percent fall. Real GDP was estimated to have increased by 1.2 percent compared with the same period a year ago. In June, GDP grew 0.4 percent, following a fall of 0.1 percent in May. Output was forecast to grow 0.2 percent. On the production-side, services output was the largest contributor to the growth, increasing by 0.3 percent after a 0.1 percent rise in May. Industrial production increased 0.7 percent, reversing a revised 1.3 percent fall. Within overall production, manufacturing gained 0.5 percent, partially offsetting May's 1.0 percent fall, data showed. Construction output expanded 0.3 percent after falling 0.5 percent in May. At face value, the 0.3 percent GDP growth looks reasonable amid a flurry of global and domestic headwinds, ING economist James Smith said. "But this is largely concentrated in components not intrinsically linked to underlying economic performance, and the Bank of England will take these figures with a pinch of salt," he added. British Chambers of Commerce Research Manager Stuart Morrison said the better-than-expected second quarter and June GDP numbers are welcome but the numbers mask the underlying pain being felt by businesses across the UK. Another data from the ONS showed that the visible trade deficit remained largely unchanged at GBP 22.16 billion in June. The total trade that combines goods and services showed a shortfall of GBP 5 billion compared to a GBP 4.5 billion deficit in May. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Economic News What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more. Justice Lex Mpati at the 1820 Settlers Monument in Makhanda, presiding over his last graduation as Chancellor in April 2025. ([PHOTO CREDIT: Christelle du Toit). Rhodes University's Faculty of Law proudly announces a landmark occasion: its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of unparalleled academic excellence and profound contributions to the South African legal landscape. As a testament to this enduring legacy and its pivotal role in shaping the nation's jurisprudence, the University will officially name its iconic Law Building in honour of one of its most distinguished alumni and the revered outgoing Chancellor, the Honourable Justice Lex Mpati. This occasion signifies a commitment to recognising visionary leaders and inspiring future generations who will uphold the rule of law across South Africa, says Judge Gerald Bloem, Council Chairperson of Rhodes University. Justice Mpati's life and career embody the core values our institution promotes: integrity, excellence, and social justice. His jurisprudence consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to constitutional values, like equality and human dignity, added Judge Bloem. Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, echoed these sentiments and added, Justice Mpati was a father figure to me and someone who was a source of wisdom. He is an integrity personified a quintessential gentleman and the embodiment of humility. Professor Mabizela noted: When Justice Mpati became Chancellor of Rhodes University, it represented a significant transformation in this University. He was the first African to be Chancellor of Rhodes University and the University could not have chosen a better son. Rhodes University Dean of Law, Professor Michelle Karels, agrees: Coming from a background where he experienced the injustices of apartheid firsthand, Justice Mpati's rise to prominence represents the transformation we seek to inspire in our students using law as a tool for positive social change. Prof Karels adds: Justice Mpati's leadership has demonstrated his commitment to accountability, transparency, and ethical governance principles we aim to instill in our future legal professionals. The naming ceremony, set to take place on Tuesday, 26 August 2025, at the Rhodes University Law Building in Makhanda, marks a pivotal moment in the 120-year celebrations and will convene an esteemed assembly of South Africa's most prominent legal figures, judicial leaders, and valued alumni. This gathering serves not only to celebrate Justice Mpati's extraordinary legacy but also to ensure that the Lex Mpati name will stand as a daily reminder of what can be achieved through dedication to legal principles, commitment to education, and unwavering integrity. About Justice Lex Mpati: Born in Durban in 1949, Justice Mpati's legal career represents an extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the highest echelons of South Africa's judiciary. A proud alumnus who earned his BA in 1982 and LLB in 1984 from Rhodes University, he rose from a legal clerk to becoming President of the Supreme Court of Appeal. As a former Judge of the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court and later President of the Supreme Court of Appeal, Justice Mpati has significantly shaped South African jurisprudence during a critical period in our nation's development. He was also an acting judge in the Constitutional Court in 2007. Beyond his judicial work, Justice Mpati has distinguished himself in governance roles, most notably chairing the Commission of Inquiry into allegations of impropriety at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC). He served as Chancellor of Rhodes University for 13 years, bridging the world of academic legal education and judicial practice. His lectures, mentorship, and guidance have inspired generations of law students, many of whom have served in various capacities in our legal system. His commitment to legal education extends beyond formal roles, as he has consistently advocated for access to justice and legal education for all South Africans. (Reuters) -Australia's Treasury Wine Estates reported 16% growth in its annual underlying profit on Wednesday, driven by robust demand for its flagship Penfolds business in China and strong contribution from its Treasury Americas portfolios. Shares of the country's largest standalone winemaker jumped over 5% in early trade to A$8.06, its highest level in more than two weeks. It was among the top gainers in the ASX 200 benchmark index, which traded down 0.7% at 0150 GMT. Treasury Wine reported full-year 2025 underlying net profit after tax of A$470.6 million ($307.2 million), higher than the A$407.5 million reported last year, though it missed Visible Alpha's estimate of A$472.1 million by a whisker. Operating earnings for its flagship Penfolds brand rose 13% for the year, fuelled by strong demand in China for the iconic label following the easing of steep import tariffs that had kept it off shelves for more than three years. However, the winemaker flagged a shift in alcohol consumption behaviour in China as large-scale banqueting gives way to smaller-scale occasions, resulting in slower depletion of its Penfolds stock in the key market. On a call with analysts and media, Treasury's managing director of the Penfolds division, Tom King, said a tightening in alcohol policies for government activities in recent months was impacting the market, although it was too early to assess the extent. "Those occasions are important to us but it's very hard for us to quantify the extent," he said. "China is a very dynamic market and things can change very quickly. We've got levers that we can pull." Citi analysts said in a research note that the company's China commentary had "led us to become more cautious on Neutral-rated Treasurys ability to deliver its Penfolds guidance in FY26 and FY27". The company's "incrementally more cautious tone on this region could lead to some of the China bulls on the stock to moderate their growth expectations," Citi added. Treasury Wine forecasts Penfolds operating earnings to grow by low to mid double-digit in fiscal 2026 and is targeting 15% growth in 2027. Treasury Wine also announced an on-market share buy-back of up to A$200 million this fiscal year. Annual sales revenue climbed more than 7% to A$2.94 billion. It announced a final dividend of 20 Australian cents per share, higher than the 19 Australian cents apiece it paid last year. ($1 = 1.5319 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Sneha Kumar and Adwitiya Srivastava in Bengaluru and Byron Kaye in Sydney; Editing by Shreya Biswas and Lincoln Feast.) Each award acknowledged individual achievement and served as a collective reminder of the leadership values Dr. Gqubule championed: humility, sacrifice, service, and a deep commitment to justice. [PHOTO CREDIT: Owami Kunene] By: Sabrina Zerf In a heartfelt tribute to the powerful legacy of Reverend Dr. Simon Gqubule, Rhodes University hosted a Memorial Lecture. Gospel choirs filled the room with rich harmonies, showcasing the faith-driven leadership Rev Dr. Gqubule embodied throughout his life. The event, gracefully facilitated by 2025 SRC Residence Councillor Mpho Pholokgolo, began with the beautiful hymns sung not only by choir members but also voices from the audience. St Peter's Chapel transformed into a sacred space of remembrance and reflection. Following the musical opening, Dr. Pakiso Tondi, Director of Student Services and Development at Rhodes University, delivered a heartfelt welcome address. His words resonated with sincerity as he emphasised the profound connection between the legacy of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule and the University's ongoing mission to inspire the new generation of ethical and responsible leaders. Following the introduction of guest speaker Mr Lincoln Mali and keynote speaker Rev. Pumla Nzimande by 2025 SRC President Linathi Ndubela, the evening took a deeply reflective turn as keynote speaker Rev. Pumla Nzimande stepped to the podium. As a presiding bishop and ordained minister in the Methodist Church, Rev. Nzimande delivered a powerful and spiritually grounded tribute to Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule. "Reverend Dr. Simon Gqubule was not just a scholar. He was not just a minister. He was not just a political actor," she began. "He was a man who embodied leadership as sacrifice." Rev. Nzimande reminded the audience that Dr. Gqubule, the first Black PhD graduate from Rhodes University in 1978, made deliberate choices that reflected his moral courage. "He could have chosen comfort. He could have chosen prestige and personal advancement. Instead, he chose the struggle. He chose community. He chose to influence generations of leaders." She remarked on Rev Dr Gqubule's showcase of being a leader by saying, "leadership is not a job title," she affirmed. "It is a way of showing up in the world." Like Gqubule, authentic leaders serve without seeking applause, choose justice even when it is unpopular, and understand that fundamental transformation is measured in promises and outcomes. Rev. Nzimande closed with a challenge, especially to the younger generation in the room. "We do not need you to wait for your turn," she said. "We need you to lead with courage now. Bring your faith, your vision, and your compassion into every space. Her words were a call for immediate and courageous action as she states, "the world doesn't need more leaders it needs better ones." Following this address, Mr. Lincoln Mali, an accomplished banker, author, and Rhodes University alumnus, reflected on the enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule and the urgent call it places on today's leaders. Drawing from over 25 years of experience in the financial sector and his leadership journey, Mali challenged the current generation to reject comfort and complacency. Mali held up Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule as a powerful example of what ethical and servant leadership should look like. "He was a leader at home, and he became a leader in his community," he reminded the audience. Gqubule's legacy, Mali emphasised, was not built on titles or personal ambition, but on values, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to truth and justice. His message was clear: leadership is within reach for everyone willing to live with purpose and principle. "If somebody like him can be the embodiment of what leadership is, then why can't you?" The pinnacle of the evening was the recognition of student leaders who have gone above and beyond in their service to the Rhodes University community. Presented in honour of Rev. Dr. Simon Gqubule's legacy of ethical, selfless, and Ubuntu-led leadership, the Rev Dr. Simon Gqubule Leadership Awards celebrated 11 exceptional students whose work reflects dedication, purpose, and a spirit of Ubuntu. In the Student Wellness category, Milowo Nokele and Mr. Thembelani Chili, who also serves as the SRC Vice President, were honoured for their dedication to student wellbeing. Milowo Nokele and Delight Chaka received the Religious and Spiritual Engagement Award. Sindy Xolo and Nchabeleleng Mashabela were awarded in the Social Justice and Transformation category. Their leadership continues to push forward necessary conversations on justice and change. Ziyanda Sibiya and Thembelani Chili were presented with the Effective Student Governance Award. Minentle Scott was recognised for his outstanding contributions in the Ethical and Responsible Leadership category. Khumo Raphuti was recognised with the Globally Engaged Award, honouring her efforts in connecting Rhodes University students with global advocacy movements. Zandile Mnisi received the Advancement for Education Empowerment Award, highlighting her work in making education more accessible and empowering for all. Angela Sibanda and Rosina Mpolokeng Thunya were awarded the Civic Engagement Award for their outstanding involvement in community upliftment. Each award acknowledged individual achievement and served as a collective reminder of the leadership values Rev Dr. Gqubule championed: humility, sacrifice, service, and a deep commitment to justice. The award serves to honour their achievements and inspire their peers to follow a path of ethical and responsible leadership, keeping the spirit of Rev Dr. Gqubule alive and thriving at Rhodes University and beyond. The event concluded on a high note, with attendees leaving inspired and ready to embrace the principles of Ubuntu leadership in their communities. While Suzuki has not provided any details about the issue, it has been clarified that there are no safety-related risks Suzuki Jimny 5-door is manufactured exclusively in India. While not so popular here, 5-door Jimny has witnessed significant demand in multiple global markets. In Australia, the 5-door Jimny is on sale as Jimny XL. In a surprising move, Suzuki has issued a stop-sale notice for the Jimny XL. Lets check out whats happening. Jimny XL sales paused in Australia Suzuki dealers in Australia have been asked to cancel bookings of Jimny XL and issue a refund. This move seems quite odd since demand for Jimny XL was quite strong in Australia. Especially due to the unavailability of the 3-door model. It is currently not available for sale in Australia due to non-compliance with the mandated autonomous emergency braking feature. It is expected that the 3-door Jimny will be upgraded to meet Australian safety standards and will be back on sale in 2026. Jimny XL doesnt have such issues, as it complies with the emission and safety standards in Australia. However, sales have now been paused due to unspecified reasons. It is reported that Jimny XL is currently under evaluation at its manufacturing site in India. While not disclosing the reason for the stop-sale notice, Suzuki has assured that there is no safety-related fault. It means that existing owners can continue using the SUV without any worries. Since it is not certain exactly when the issue will be resolved, Suzuki dealers have been asked to cancel bookings and issue refunds to customers. This move protects customers from potential prolonged delays in delivery. However, customers have also been given the choice to retain their bookings. If they want, they can wait to get delivery of their Jimny XL. Suzuki will be interacting with customers directly to provide them with more information on the sudden stop-sale notice. While not making a public disclosure, it is important to actively look into the concerns of loyal customers. Suzuki has asked its dealers in Australia to provide details of customers who have booked the Jimny XL. They will be contacted individually to clear any of their doubts and apprehensions. Potential reasons for stop-sale notice It is to be noted that the stop-sale has been issued only for Australia. Jimny 5-door continues to be available for sale in India. Exports to other markets have also not stopped. Suzuki has also stated that there are no safety related issues with the Jimny XL in Australia. Such factors clearly indicate that there is no universal type issue with the 5-door Jimny. It is possible that the stop-sale notice for Jimny XL in Australia could be linked to an emission related concern. Or, there could be some challenges on the production side, linked to logistics and supply chain issues. Another possibility is that an updated version may be in the works. However, there is currently no official confirmation. Source Yi He describes a recent encounter with a university student who had sent $500 worth of crypto to the wrong wallet, a common mistake and one that typically means the funds are gone for good. Yi He, though, took the time to track down and recover the misdirected funds, recalling how the student had told her, Its a small figure for you but everything to me. The power of communication is something Yi He knows well. At Binance, she is renowned for her marketing and customer service skills, which helped vault the exchange to the biggest in the world in less than a year. To this day, she prides herself on listening to Binance clients on Telegram, X, WeChat, and any other platform where they might be found, and insists everyone else do the same. She has famously required that everyone who comes to work at Binance spend a few weeks on the front lines of customer service. In the course of her life and career, Yi He has overcome many obstaclesone of which has been learning English, which she only took up four years ago in her mid-thirties. During a long Zoom interview, He acquits herself well, only falling back on her translator when she struggles to explain a Chinese idiom or proverb. In a rare interview, Yi He told Fortune about her journey from poor village girl to crypto billionaire, the tests she faced during Binances year of crisis, and her vision for an industry that is fast transforming global finance. Today, Binance appears to have weathered the ordeal. Zhao has served his sentence , and Binance, despite incurring the sort of blow that would have crippled most companies, is still on top as the worlds biggest cryptocurrency exchange. Yi He has been instrumental in achieving this, and after years of wielding power behind the scenes, is taking on a more public role running Binance. Binances other cofounder, the flamboyant Changpeng Zhao, went to prison last year in the United States as part of a $4 billion plea deal. The situation created a huge business challenge for Binance and for Yi He, a painful personal one since Zhao was not only the companys CEO but is the father of her young children. When Yi He was a girl in the 1980s, she walked to the well for water and relied on kerosene lamps at times to light the house. Things are different now. Today, Yi He is a celebrity to millions of Chinese and a multibillionaire thanks to her reported 10% stake in the worlds largest cryptocurrency exchange, Binance, where she wields enormous influence as a cofounder and senior executive. Still, life has not been easy. Story Continues Yi He says she can empathize with such stories given her own experience growing up poor in Sichuan province, where she lost her father at age 9 and, when she was 16, spent long hours working to promote soft drinks outside a supermarket. Though she ultimately made her way to universityHe pauses to recall the delights of being in a library for the first timeand a career as a TV host, she says her humble beginnings mean she can still relate to Binances many customers of modest means. Yi Hes tale has echoes of Jennifer Lopezs Jenny From the Block, a song about a beautiful woman who keeps the common touch even after she is rich and famousthe sort of story Americans lap up. But thats not how it plays in China, says Eowyn Chen, CEO of crypto firm Trust Wallet, who formerly worked for Yi He at Binance. According to Chen, Chinese people are less inclined to root for the underdog, and are more likely instead to hurl insults at those who have risen above their station. Chen says Yi He is the regular target of articles and social media barbs that seek to demean and ridicule her, but that her response is to turn negative rhetoric against those lobbing it. She tells people, Sure, I came from a crappy background and made good, so why dont you do the same? says Chen. Yi He, whom Bloomberg dubbed the most powerful woman in crypto, has climbed to the top of the blockchain world using this mix of smarts, hustle, and cockinessqualities she shares with her cofounder and romantic partner. Building Binance When Changpeng Zhao launched Binance in 2017, he had already built an outsize public persona as CZ, by which he is universally known today. Zhao built up the CZ mythology by taking outsize riskslike selling his Shanghai apartment in 2014 to buy more Bitcoinand by enthusiastically joining in the daily shitposting for the very online community known as Crypto Twitter. Zhao asked Yi He to join Binance in its early days but only after she had first recruited him years earlier, when she persuaded him to join her as chief technology officer at the exchange OKCoin (now OKX) in 2014. The pair shared an enthusiasm for crypto but other qualities as well. Zhao, like Yi He, spent his early years in an unheated, rural schoolhouse until his father immigrated to Canada where, in high school, Zhao worked minimum wage jobs at Chevron and McDonalds. Zhao is also inclined to clap back at those who mock his background, even retweeting memes of himself in a Golden Arches uniform. It was during their time at OKCoin that the pair became a couple as they gained experience operating a massive crypto business. Today, the pair, who never married but remain romantically involved, work closely as parents and business partners. Yi He is co-owner with Zhao of Binances venture capital arm turned family office, YZi Labs, and owns at least 10% of shares in the parent company, according to the Wall Street Journal. On the nature of her relationship with Zhao, Yi He asked not to be quoted on the record and instead provided a written statement: My personal life is independent from my professional life. My achievements and capabilities as cofounder are often overlooked with my personal life in question, she wrote, while touting a Binance user base of 280 million customers. Whatever the personal dimensions of the relationship, the professional side of it has proved highly effective, with Yi He roughly serving as the Binance equivalent of Sheryl Sandberg, the executive who helped build Facebook in its early days while helping to ground the then-unpolished CEO, Mark Zuckerberg. In practice, this has meant Zhao occupying the role of Binances larger-than-life frontman and product visionary, with Yi He fanning massive growth through aggressive promotions, including car giveaways. Her approach found favor with the Chinese community abroad and also in China, where crypto is technically banned but still hugely popular, in part because it is an easily transferable asset beyond the reach of government capital controls. A Binance employee who asked not to be named so as to discuss the firms executives described Yi He as an exacting boss, but one who supports employees and advocates for those around her. In discussing Binances day-to-day operations, Yi He said a core tenet at the company is founder culture, a phrase from the tech world that describes firms that retain the original drive of their early startup days. In the case of Binance, those early days were defined in part by a willingness to play fast and loose with regulation, and to hopscotch from country to country in response to government scrutiny. While that strategy helped fuel Binances incredible growth, it has at times also been the companys biggest weaknessone that caused it to lose its most prominent founder. Binance after CZ By early 2023, the walls were closing in. Following the collapse of Sam Bankman-Frieds FTX exchange the previous year, the Biden administration redoubled its efforts to bring the crypto sector to heelwith a particular focus on the sectors biggest player, Binance. The companys lawyers had been in discussions with the Justice Department about various allegations for years, but finally the time had come to make a deal. In September of 2023, the agency announced a sweeping settlement that would not only see Binance pay a whopping $4.3 billion finethe largest of its kind in corporate historybut also force Zhao to step down as CEO and plead guilty to charges of failing to implement adequate anti-money-laundering measures. Both the Wall Street Journal and Reuters, meanwhile, cited multiple unnamed sources to claim the agency sought to force Yi He to leave the company as well. (Binances plea agreements with the U.S. regulators are a matter of public record, said a company spokesperson.) Despite this massive blow to both its treasury and leadership, Binance two years later remains the biggest crypto exchange by far under Zhaos successor, Richard Teng. A former top regulator from Singapore, Teng has helped the company implement a raft of compliance measures and project a new image that suggests it has evolved beyond the fast-and-loose tactics of its early days. In January, Binance also took a major stepfor the first time introducing a formal board structure, featuring seven members including Teng and three independent directors. Despite all this, a former employee at the company told Fortune that the power at Binance very much resides where it always haswith Zhao, Yi He, and two other early Binance executives, Lilai Roger Wang and Wei Sonny Zhou. The person, who asked not to be identified in order to speak candidly, added that Yi He has a final say in all personnel matters and exerts the greatest authority when it comes to customer experience decisions. The Binance spokesperson, meanwhile, said the claim is not accurate and that the companys culture encourages employees to exercise a high degree of autonomy, and added that Zhou left the firm three years ago. The founder of a venture capital firm, meanwhile, described Binance as a company run with an iron fist that, despite dealing with new legal constraints and the challenge of running a sprawling global operation, is in no danger of losing its place as market leader. This assessment appears to be supported by recent data, supplied by CoinGecko, that shows Binance holding on to the lions share of trading activity39% of volume on centralized exchanges in Junedespite the emergence of new competitors: For Yi He, Binances ongoing dominance comes as a validation of her customer-first strategy, and of the company founders personal devotion to cryptoa technology she views as transformational, to the same degree that the arrival of the internet changed traditional media and TV. Yi He predicts that crypto will accelerate its push into the conventional financial system through stablecoins and other blockchain technologies and that, in five to 10 years, both realms will be fully integrated with each other. On a personal level, Yi He says the mass adoption of crypto feels like yet another massive technological change she has experienced since the days of her girlhood not so long ago, when her house didnt have electricity or running water. As for the trials shes experienced along the way, she cites a Mongolian proverb: Since you have spoken well, do not speak of pain. If you speak of the good, do not mention the pain. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com The Blackstone headquarters in New York, US, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. Blackstone Inc.s real estate arm weighed on the investment giants second-quarter results, as high interest rates crimped property valuations and investors pumped less money into the business. Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg Blackstone Inc. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc.s asset management arm are leading a nearly $1 billion private debt deal to help fund Advent Internationals acquisition of Israeli software provider Sapiens International Corp., according to a person with knowledge of the matter, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. Advent announced this week it was acquiring Sapiens, which provides software to the insurance industry, in a deal valued at about $2.5 billion. In a statement announcing the deal, which is expected to close by early next year, Advent said it had arranged committed debt and equity financing. Most Read from Bloomberg A representative for Blackstone declined to comment. Representatives for Goldman Sachs, Advent and Sapiens didnt immediately respond to requests for comment. The market for mergers and acquisitions has remained subdued this year, leaving private equity firms eager to transact. The dearth of deal flow has created more competition between banks and private credit firms, both looking for new acquisitions to finance. Sapiens is currently publicly listed in New York and Tel Aviv and operates a number of brands that offer a variety of insurance, pension and reinsurance products globally. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2025 Bloomberg L.P. An international team of paleontologists has spent more than 15 years excavating and studying fossils from Africa to expand our understanding of the Permian, a period of Earth's history that began 299 million years ago and ended 252 million years ago with our planet's largest and most devastating mass extinction. Led by researchers at the University of Washington and the Field Museum of Natural History, the team is identifying the animals that thrived in southern Pangea -- the planet's single supercontinent at the time -- just before the so-called "Great Dying" wiped out about 70% of terrestrial species, and an even larger fraction of marine ones. "This mass extinction was nothing short of a cataclysm for life on Earth, and changed the course of evolution," said Christian Sidor, a UW professor of biology and curator of vertebrate paleontology at the UW Burke Museum of Natural History & Culture. "But we lack a comprehensive view of which species survived, which didn't, and why. The fossils we have collected in Tanzania and Zambia will give us a more global perspective on this unprecedented period in our planet's natural history." Sidor and Kenneth Angielczyk, curator of paleomammalogy at the Field Museum, are co-editors of a 14-article series published Aug. 7 in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology featuring the team's recent discoveries about the myriad of animals that made Permian Africa their home. These include saber-toothed predators, burrowing foragers and a large, salamander-like creature. All these finds were excavated in three basins across southern Africa: the Ruhuhu Basin in southern Tanzania, the Luangwa Basin in eastern Zambia and the Mid-Zambezi Basin in southern Zambia. Most were discovered by team members on multiple, month-long excavation trips to the region over the past 17 years. Others were analyses of specimens dug up decades prior that had been stored in museum collections. "These parts of Zambia and Tanzania contain absolutely beautiful fossils from the Permian," said Sidor. "They are giving us an unprecedented view of life on land leading up to the mass extinction." Starting in 2007, Sidor and his team, including UW students and postdoctoral researchers, made five trips to the Ruhuhu Basin and four to the Mid-Zambezi and Luangwa basins, all in cooperation with the Tanzanian and Zambian governments. The researchers trekked between field sites miles apart to collect fossils. They stayed in villages or camped in the open -- once waking during the night to the ground-quaking stomps of a nearby elephant herd. All fossils collected by the team will be returned to Tanzania and Zambia after researchers have completed their analyses. The Permian is the endpoint of what paleontologists call the Paleozoic Era. During this time, animal life -- which evolved first in Earth's oceans -- began to colonize land and complex terrestrial ecosystems developed. By the Permian, a diverse array of amphibian and reptile-like creatures roamed environments ranging from early forests to arid valleys. The end-Permian mass extinction -- whose precise cause scientists are still debating -- obliterated many of these ecosystems and ushered in the Mesozoic Era, which saw the evolution of dinosaurs, as well as the first birds, flowering plants and mammals. For decades, scientists' best understanding of the Permian, the Great Dying and the start of the Mesozoic came from the Karoo Basin in South Africa, which contains a near-complete fossil record of periods before and after the mass extinction. But beginning in the 1930s, paleontologists realized that basins in Tanzania and Zambia contain fossil records of this time range that are almost as pristine as the Karoo's. The excavation trips by Sidor, Angielczyk and their colleagues represent the largest analysis to date of the region's fossil record from before and after the Great Dying. In 2018, they published a comprehensive analysis of the post-Permian animals of the Ruhuhu and Luangwa basins. These new papers look further back into the Permian. "The number of specimens we've found in Zambia and Tanzania is so high and their condition is so exquisite that we can make species-level comparisons to what paleontologists have found in South Africa," said Sidor. "I know of no better place on Earth for getting sufficient detail of this time period to make such detailed conclusions and comparisons." The team's papers describe a number of new species of dicynodonts. These small, burrowing, reptile-like herbivores first evolved in the mid-Permian. By the time of the mass extinction, dicynodonts -- many of whom sported a beak-like snout with two small tusks that likely aided burrowing -- were the dominant plant-eaters on land. The team's findings also include several new species of large, saber-toothed predators called gorgonopsians, as well as a new species of temnospondyl, a large salamander-like amphibian. "We can now compare two different geographic regions of Pangea and see what was going on both before and after the end-Permian mass extinction," said Sidor. "We can really start to ask questions about who survived and who didn't." In addition to the UW and the Field Museum, the team includes scientists from the University of Chicago, Loyola University Chicago, Idaho State University, the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, Carleton University, the University of Southern California, the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, the Iziko South African Museum, Southern Methodist University, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the Museum for Natural History in Berlin, the U.S. Geological Survey, the University of Oklahoma, the National Heritage Conservation Commission in Lusaka, Virginia Tech, and the Chipembele Wildlife Education Center in Mfume, Zambia. Seven of these scientists are former UW postdoctoral researchers, doctoral students or undergraduate students. The research was funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and the National Geographic Society. The News in Brief Thursday, August 14, 2025 Georgian opposition politician Aleko Elisashvili, a member of the coalition "Lelo - Strong Georgia" [Citizens Party], has been sentenced to 6 years in prison in Russia. The Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation has released information about the verdict, which was handed down in absentia.A case was opened against Aleko Elisashvili under Part 3 of Article 359 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (mercenary participation in an armed conflict).The Russian prosecutor's office writes that in March 2022, Elisashvili fought in Ukraine as part of the "Georgian Legion", participating in military operations on the territory of Ukraine, including the battles for the city of Irpen, Kyiv region. In April 2022, he left the territory of Ukraine and returned to Georgia."It is a great honor that the Russians made such a decision because I supported the Ukrainian people, for this heroic, dedicated, selfless people, and on the other hand because I defended the national interests of Georgia," - this is how Aleko Elisashvili responded to Russia's decision to declare a wanted person for his arrest a few days ago.Aleko Elisashvili left for Ukraine shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 to fight on the Ukrainian side. He wrote on Facebook on March 13 of the same year that he had gone to fight in Ukraine. Many Georgian citizens are still fighting in Ukraine. More than 60 have died.The anti-Western movement Neutral Georgia, affiliated with the ruling party Georgian Dream, has called for a national referendum on EU membership to be held alongside the 2025 municipal elections. The group proposes a controversial question linking EU accession to the "promotion of LGBT propaganda and legalization of same-sex marriage."In a lengthy statement, Neutral Georgia described EU membership as an illusion and a threat to Georgia's sovereignty, identity, and values. The group claims the government's continued pursuit of EU integration by 2030 is dangerous and misleading.The proposed referendum follows the group's past efforts to target pro-European voices; it was Neutral Georgia's earlier appeal that led the Prosecutor General's Office to open a sabotage case against opposition parties and civil society organizations.Neutral Georgia, which plans to become a political party, opposes Georgia's NATO and EU aspirations and advocates for a "neutral" foreign policy. BNP Paribas is in advanced negotiations to acquire Athlon, the leasing subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz Group, reported Bloomberg, citing sources. Sources also suggested the deal could be valued at around 1bn ($1.2bn), although they caution that discussions are ongoing and may not necessarily materialise into a deal. The potential acquisition is part of Mercedes-Benz's review of its business operations. Both BNP Paribas and Mercedes-Benz have refrained from commenting on the matter. Earlier this year, the company had previously reached out to prospective buyers to assess interest in Athlon, a division it acquired in 2016 from Rabobank for around 1.1bn. Through its subsidiary Arval, BNP Paribas is already engaged in the vehicle leasing market. Bloomberg News noted that Mercedes-Benz has faced challenges in maintaining profitability amid a cooling demand for its vehicles, particularly in China, and slower growth in Europe. The report added that these issues have been compounded by tariffs introduced by the US on European auto imports, prompting the company to adjust its profit outlook. Last month, Arval extended its partnership with CaixaBank Payments & Consumer, a subsidiary of Spain's CaixaBank, until 2030. This partnership is focused on the development of mobility solutions with an emphasis on sustainability and financial product innovation. The extended tie-up plans to support the transition to cleaner transportation by financing 200,000 vehicles by 2030. The goal is to promote fleet renewal with safer, more eco-friendly vehicles, reducing CO emissions and enhancing air quality in urban areas. "BNP Paribas in advanced discussions to buy Mercedes-Benzs leasing unit" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand. BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) is among the 11 Best Hydrogen Stocks to Invest in Now. According to three Petrobras insiders who spoke to Reuters, BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) and Petrobras possible collaboration to develop BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP)s Bumerangue block oil and gas discovery in Brazils pre-salt layer depends on reservoir CO levels. Murray Auchincloss, the CEO of BP, recently announced that the business is looking for a partner for what it describes as its biggest worldwide find in 25 years. Concerns about economic viability were raised when BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) discovered elevated CO during a rig-site study. Early-stage technology is being developed by Petrobras to manage high-CO deposits. BP-Petrobras Collaboration On Bumerangue Block Depends On CO2 levels, Insiders Say. A construction worker installing a garage door in a new residential home. Brazil is a major oil producer due to its pre-salt deepwater reserves, but projects can be halted by high CO levels; as a result, Petrobras enormous Jupiter field is still to be developed. Experts caution that too much CO might render Bumerangue unprofitable, but Gordon Birrell, BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP)s production chief played down the worries. Petrobras has not been contacted by the firm, but sources anticipate data exchange in the future. Bumerangue was fully purchased by BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) in 2022, the two companies already collaborate on additional pre-salt blocks, including Alto de Cabo Frio Central. It is one of the Best Hydrogen Stocks. While we acknowledge the potential of BP 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: 10 High-Growth EV Stocks to Invest In and 13 Best Car Stocks to Buy in 2025. Disclosure. None. Cathie Wood buys battered tech stock after earnings originally appeared on TheStreet. Cathie Wood, co-founder, CEO, and chief investment officer of ARK Invest, has a long history of buying disruptive growth stocks she believes are capable of shaping the future. She's not afraid to double down on high-growth tech names during periods of extreme volatility. It's a core part of ARK's investment strategy, targeting companies she believes have strong long-term potential, even as short-term price swings spook other investors. Cathie Wood's ARK Invest has a history of buying beaten-down tech stocks.Image source: Ratcliffe/Bloomberg via Getty Images For Wood, sharp pullbacks offer discounted entry points into companies that operate in transformative industries such as artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, blockchain, and programmatic advertising. Still, Wood raised eyebrows across Wall Street this week by adding more than 725,000 shares of Trade Desk (TTD) across her firm's actively managed ETFs. More on stocks: The timing was no coincidence; Trade Desk stock fell 38.6% on Friday after the ad-tech specialist's latest earnings report disappointed investors. Wood's move, however, indicates continued confidence in the California-based digital advertising platform despite a weaker-than-expected outlook, earnings miss, and a surprise C-suite change. ARK Innovation ETF leads Trade Desk buying spree According to ARK Invest's daily trading disclosures, Wood's flagship ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) bought 535,292 shares of Trade Desk on Friday. The ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (ARKW) added another 203,075 shares. This marks ARK's first Trade Desk purchase since mid-February, when Wood's team bought shares following another post-earnings drop of 33%. Following these trades, Trade Desk is now ARKK's 27th-largest holding, with 1.57 million shares valued at roughly $85 million. In ARKW, it's now the 29th-largest position, with 523,000 shares worth around $28 million. What triggered Trade Desk's stock crash? Trade Desk's nearly 40% drop this time came as its second-quarter results and forward outlook disappointed investors. Revenue climbed 19% year over year to $694 million, ahead of the company's forecast and beating consensus estimates for $682 million. That translated to adjusted earnings of $0.41 per share, up 5% year over year but a penny per share below Wall Street's models. The company's forward outlook proved more disappointing, with management calling for Q3 revenue to climb just 14% year over year to $717 million. Cava Group is not having a good week. On Tuesday, August 12, the fast casual restaurant chain announced its second-quarter results and a decline in net income to $18.4 million from $19.7 million year-over-year (YOY). Most Read from Fast Company The drop brought Cavas earnings (NYSE: CAVA) to 16 cents per share. Notably, this was above Wall Streets predicted 13 cents per share, but other figures missed the mark, according to consensus estimates cited by CNBC. Take Cavas revenue, which increased to $280.6 million from $233.5 million YOY. Despite the growth on paper, it fell short of the $285.6 million figure predicted. Then theres the companys same restaurant sales, which grew 2.1%, compared to a projected 6.1%. This low single-digit increase represented a significant decline from 2024s fourth-quarter jump of 21.2% and even quarter ones 10.8%. Protein sets a high bar Cava attributes the 2.1% to menu price and product mix, while foot traffic was stagnant. Meanwhile, in a post-earnings report call, Cava CEO Brett Schulman attributed the slow growth YOY in part to 2024s successful launch of steak, our most significant protein launch in a number of years. Investors dont seem to accept last years steak addition as a good enough excuse. But crucially, Cava also cut its sales outlook for the full year. Cavas stock plummeted over 24% after-hours and into premarket trading on Wednesday morning. Its a significant turnaround from last November, when Cava led most of its competitors with an impressive 255% stock growth year-to-date for 2024. Schulman also acknowledged an uncertain macroeconomic climate, which he described as a fog, noted Restaurant Business. Still, the CEO had a full-speed-ahead attitude when discussing the second-quarter results. He noted that Cava opened 16 new restaurantswith a total of 398and that long lines and warm welcomes in new markets gave him confidence that Cava will have 1,000 restaurants by 2032. He also highlighted the successful testing of chicken shawarma in Dallas and Tampa. Schulman further shared that Cavas Project Soul prototype should be done this fall. The fast casual chain announced Project Soul in 2024, an initiative focused on warmer color palettes, comfier seating, greenery, and an overall more welcoming environment in its restaurants. Its expected to launch across new restaurants starting in 2026. Cava will have to wait until then to see if the redesign parlays into another boost in same restaurant sales. This post originally appeared at fastcompany.com Subscribe to get the Fast Company newsletter: http://fastcompany.com/newsletters Valued at a market cap of $56 billion, Cencora, Inc. (COR) sources and distributes pharmaceutical products for people and animals. The Conshohocken, Pennsylvania-based company provides essential support, encompassing clinical trial logistics and consulting to packaging, data analytics, and patient adherence programs. This healthcare company has outpaced the broader market over the past 52 weeks. Shares of COR have surged 21.6% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 20.6%. Moreover, on a YTD basis, the stock is up 28.7%, compared to SPXs 9.6% return. More News from Barchart Zooming in further, CORs outperformance looks even more pronounced when compared to the VanEck Pharmaceutical ETFs (PPH) 11% loss over the past 52 weeks and 3.2% YTD drop. www.barchart.com On Aug. 6, Cencora released its Q3 results. Due to growth in both its U.S. and International healthcare solutions segments, the companys overall revenue improved 8.7% year-over-year to $80.7 billion, surpassing consensus estimates by a slight margin. Moreover, its adjusted EPS of $4 advanced 19.8% from the prior-year quarter and came in 5.8% above analyst expectations. Additionally, COR raised its fiscal 2025 adjusted EPS guidance, and now expects it to be between $15.85 and $16. Yet, its shares tumbled 2.9% after the earnings release. For the current fiscal year, ending in September, analysts expect CORs EPS to grow 15.9% year over year to $15.95. The companys earnings surprise history is promising. It surpassed the consensus estimates in each of the last four quarters. Among the 14 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a "Strong Buy which is based on 11 Strong Buy, and three Hold ratings. www.barchart.com This configuration is slightly more bullish than three months ago, with 10 analysts suggesting a Strong Buy rating. On Aug. 11, JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM) analyst Richard Choe maintained a "Buy" rating on COR and set a price target of $344, implying a 19% potential upside from the current levels. The mean price target of $335 represents a 15.9% premium from CORs current price levels, while the Street-high price target of $355 suggests an ambitious upside potential of 22.8%. On the date of publication, Neharika Jain 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 South Dakota Mines recognized local businesses RPM Companies, and community leader Lorie Vega as the 2025 Community Champions during the annual state of the university address yesterday. This is the third year for the award, which recognizes a local community member, business or organization that has dedicated time, treasure and talent to further the university's mission. Founded in 1982 by Mines alumnus Robert Mudge (MetE 76, MS MetE 78), RPM & Associates, Inc. delivers wear solutions for heavy industries such as mining, cement, and power generation through the use of automatic welding systems, CNC machining, and innovative material applications. Based in Rapid City, the company has undergone two major expansions. In 1996, it launched RPM Solutions, Inc., specializing in manufacturing replacement structural and wear components for rotary dry scrubber systems that remove sulfur from industrial gases. Then, in 2013, Mudge established RPM Innovations, a leader in directed energy deposition laser technology for repairing and 3D printing components used in aerospace, rocket and defense sectors. All three companies are led by a talented group of Mines graduates. RPM companies support Mines through donation of employee time, company resources and philanthropic giving, said Mines President Brian Tande, Ph.D. They support technical tours for classes and STEM groups, engineering design projects, CAMP competition projects and technical outreach events such as high school summer camp field trips and other visits. Vega, who has been a federal civil servant for nearly 40 years, is the deputy commander for the 28th Mission Support Group at Ellsworth Air Force Base, where she oversees more than 1,300 personnel in six squadrons providing civil engineer support, communications, security, logistics, acquisition, and force support. She also serves as the community partnership liaison and was recognized in 2022 as an Association of Defense Communities champion. She is a key contact on base for organizing projects with the university, providing students an opportunity to apply their technical skills and knowledge to real-world problems at Ellsworth and other military installations, Tande said. Her work with our campus leaders and a student project has resulted in a business startup currently housed in the D-Lab at Elevate Rapid City, called CounSil, LLC, owned by Mines alum John Barbour. Vega has been instrumental in connecting university resources to the family readiness and education groups on base, providing opportunities for faculty and students to share STEM activities. She arranged for several Mines academic departments to be represented during the 2022 Air Show at Ellsworth, which created wide exposure to thousands of regional attendees. During yesterdays address, Tande also updated legislative and community leaders on the state of higher education, student enrollment, graduate outcomes, campus growth and research achievements. His overarching goal is to challenge traditional approaches in higher education and strengthen the connection between education and industry through innovative ideas. The fall semester begins Monday, Aug. 25. Jacob Soter, SwimSmart Jacob Soter Mackinac County 911 and Emergency Management SwimSmart technology in play along a Lake Michigan beach in Mackinac County. Jacob Soter, SwimSmart SwimSmart technology is being used in beaches across the Midwest, including this one in Racine, Wisconsin. Its beach season across Michigan and the country. The lure of cool water, hot sand and chilling out on a beach blanket is almost irresistible for most people in July and August.But beaches can be dangerous playgrounds. According to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, about 100 people drown in the Great Lakes each year.An Upper Peninsula start-up called SwimSmart is working to address that. And its making waves throughout Michigan, the Midwest and beyond.Its co-founder, Jacob Soter, has even received the Great Lakes Water Safety Consortiums Superhero of the Year award for advancing drowning prevention.SwimSmart is an automated beach warning light system that delivers real-time National Weather Service (NWS) warnings, replacing outdated manual flag systems that are hard to see or update.SwimSmart is now being used at some three dozen beaches around the country, including in Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, and even in Ontario, Canada. SwimSmart tailors its system to the unique hazards of each beach while maintaining the same look and feel.The core technology monitors water conditions from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and National Weather Service data. It works like a fire alarm, explains Soter."There are alarms, warning lights and other tools to alert the public and beach staff to dangerous situations. The system can also notify first responders to emergencies and empower swimmers to swim smarter and know how to prevent drowning," Soter says.SwimSmart technology includes beach traffic lights, rescue stations, audible alarms, call boxes and call routing, signage, mobile installations and stream and burst cameras to enable beach managers to better monitor their beaches.SwimSmart also enables onsite beach staff to participate in emergency response with geo-located life ring cabinets that trigger 911 alerts. It cuts emergency response times from 10-15 minutes to under a minute, preventing drownings in high-risk areas like Lake Michigan and providing tourism-dependent communities with enhanced safety.The system has already intervened in a variety of emergency situations, from medical emergencies to lost people, to actual water-based rescues, Soter says.The Mackinac County Water Safety Review Team installed a SwimSmart system along the U.S. 2 Dunes Beach, just east of the Dune Shores Resort, in 2023. Its an area used by many beach visitors during the summer season.The Swim Smart station has been a presence of safety and a reminder to the many beach visitors of the potential hazards that could be present while swimming in Lake Michigan, says Bryce Tracy, director of Mackinac County911 and emergency management.The SwimSmart signage has been a welcome addition to keep swimmers safe during and outside of life-guarding hours at North Beach in Racine, Wisconsin, says a lifeguard representative. The lifeguards have unanimously agreed that this technology aids them in their ability to keep patrons safe and keep beach goers informed.SwimSmart is Soters brainchild. His system was born as a student project part of the Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) SmartZone when he was studying electrical and computer engineering at Michigan Technological University.Originally from Monroe, Michigan, Soter had spent part of his growing-up years in Florida, where flag warning systems were standard on beaches. Hed seen first-hand their many deficiencies. And he recognized the need for a beach safety net on the dangerous Great Lakes beaches.As an engineer with an interest in technology, he naturally turned to a technological solution.Soter went on to earn an MBA at Tech and, turning down a job offer from General Motors, he chose to apply his electrical engineering know-how to developing the automated SwimSmart technology and his MBA skills to growing it into a business.He founded SwimSmart Technology LLC with his faculty advisor, Andrew Barnard.A $570,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and ainvestments from the MTEC SmartZone and the Innovate Marquette SmartZone got the business moving.From its inception to today, SmartZones continue to be SwimSmarts most important partner, Soter says.InvestUP, a regional economic organization serving the U.P., with a mission to drive prosperity across the peninsula, upped the ante by choosing SwimSmart as one of the first investments in its new Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund. InvestUP also helped the company secure a $200,000 grant from the state of Michigan to fund the deployment of the system at Grand Haven State Park.InvestUP has helped open doors for SwimSmart through its many contacts in the economic world, says Marty Fittante, chief executive officer of InvestUP. This company is a good example of the type of opportunity we think comes from investing in startup companies for the region," he says.Another major economic development organization partner has been the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The MEDC has supported SwimSmart through networking events, grant opportunities and most importantly the Michigan SmartZone network.A 2025 grant from Michigan Rise will enable SwimSmart to continue perfecting its technology and expanding its reach. Michigan Rise is a wholly owned venture capital subsidiary of the Michigan State University Research Foundation, operated in partnership with MEDC. Michigan Rise provides early-stage funding to innovative companies that have the potential to transform industries and create jobs in Michigan.SwimSmarts first pilot customers were Frankfort, Michigan, and Muskegon, Michigan. Pilot systems were installed at Anchor Road Beach and Pere Marquette Beach in 2021. Frankfort adopted two solar-powered lights at its beach entrance and pier, while Muskegon used National Weather System-linked automation to combat rip current drownings.The early feedback and testing data from Frankfort and Muskegon provided critical information to guide the product to where it is today. SwimSmart grew from a warning light into a more dynamic system full of safety features for beach managers to more effectively manage their resources.Grand Haven State Park was our boldest and most challenging deployment to date, says Soter, and a lot was learned along the way. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division successfully implemented the new electronic beach safety notification system in Grand Haven State Park during the 2024 season, enhancing water safety and emergency response, says Andrew LundBorg, park supervisor. During its first season, the system was activated in response to emergency situations and contributed to improved coordination and quicker response times from first responders.SwimSmart designs are iterative, with each version improved by carefully considering the feedback from the beach authorities and communities. With innovation, everything is a first, and learning step by step is the path to forward progress. Soter explains.SwimSmart is based in Marquette. As the company expands, it plans to keep its signage manufacturing in the U.P.We're committed to ensuring that a portion of our product line is manufactured where the product originated in the Upper Peninsula, Soter says."We're also an engineering/solutions company. There's no better resource for quality engineers than Michigan Tech, and we intend on heavily utilizing its talent pipeline to build our team for years to come," he explains.SwimSmart systems cost from tens of thousands to millions of dollars per project, depending on setup and beach size, construction costs. An annual service plan provides SwimSmart management of system operations, relieving beaches of complex equipment management.SwimSmart is now in talks with some of the largest beaches in the U.S. and globally, expecting installations in Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Florida, and more. With $450,000 in investment funding, it aims to develop new and improved hardware designs, advanced software and AI-driven forecasting, and continue building partnerships with meteorologists and municipalities.Soter sees nothing but progress ahead.From sophisticated public safety platforms that will forever change some of the largest beaches in the country, to cutting edge forecasting models to evolve how we perceive coastal dangers; SwimSmart is in a strong position moving forwarda," Soter says. "From the lessons learned in water safety, we seek to expand into broader weather and environmental safety applications such as water quality, small watercraft, flooding, lightning, tornadoes, and more.Jennifer Donovan is a reporter with more than 40 years of experience on daily newspapers, magazines and university writing and editing. She is retired as director of news and media relations at Michigan Technological University and lives in Houghton. By Andrew Silver SHANGHAI (Reuters) -Pharmaceutical research and development firms in China are increasingly interested in procuring critical supplies known as reagents from local manufacturers, industry executives and managers said, as they seek to cut costs and delivery times. Western reagent suppliers including U.S.-based Thermo Fisher Scientific and Germany's Merck have profited in the world's second-largest pharmaceutical market from the compounds used in lab tests for analysis and quality control. But rising Chinese import tariffs due to the trade war with the U.S. and longer-term concerns about costs or access are spurring Chinese companies to request products from local rivals like Shanghai Titan Scientific and Nanjing Vazyme Biotech instead, the executives and managers said. The five who spoke to Reuters work at Chinese firms involved in the purchase or supply of reagents and their comments are an early sign of an expected industry shift toward more Chinese purchases. China's reagent market for lab and diagnostic use has been to some extent supplied by imports, which were valued at $5.76 billion in 2024, down slightly from $5.83 billion in 2023, according to U.N. Comtrade data. "It is actually more advantageous (for reagents to be local) because the timeliness requirement is high," said Ma Xingquan, co-president of pharmaceutical research firm ChemPartner PharmaTech. Most reagents it uses in its pre-clinical work are products that are made in China by firms including Titan and Shanghai Aladdin Biochemical Technology, he said. ChemPartner's usage of locally made reagents would probably increase further as new products become available, Ma added. TARIFF BUMP The rush to use domestically made reagents has accelerated since April, the month China raised duties on U.S. goods to 125%, a manager at Titan and an executive at Vazyme said, though the levies have since been lowered as Beijing and Washington continue trade talks. Some Chinese drugmakers were worried about tariff policy uncertainty, Titan product manager Yang Dong said. Since April, more than 90% of Vazyme's customers have discussed replacing imported reagents with its products, Vazyme Senior Vice President Xu Xiaoyu said. "Before April, customers were only saying long term, they hope to be able to replace (reagents) with those locally made, it would be better," Xu said. "But to customers these tariffs are like a shock in a short period of time. They clearly felt this type of direct impact... their impetus (for replacement) will be stronger." The flow of new rental properties coming on to the market has fallen at the fastest rate since the first Covid lockdown five years ago, according to research by Britains property surveyors. Although the demand for properties is steady, there are fewer new rentals from landlords coming available, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) found. Guardian The ticket resale website StubHub may have failed to prevent breaches of consumer law on its platform when it allowed a prolific tout to advertise more than 300 tickets for a Lewis Capaldi concert, experts have said. StubHub and fellow secondary ticketing platform Viagogo are under intense scrutiny from ministers, who are considering whether to ban for-profit ticket resale in an effort to protect fans. Guardian Britains audit watchdog is offering cash to staff to help them adjust to their new office commute, which adds just six minutes to their current journey. The Financial Reporting Council (FRC), which regulates the accounting sector, has offered to financially support staff after moving from Moorgate in the City of London to Canary Wharf in Docklands, which is just two stops away on the Elizabeth Line. Telegraph Rachel Reeves has been urged to scrap her controversial non-dom tax crackdown to lure foreign billionaires back to invest in Britains much-needed building projects. Leo Quinn, the chief executive of construction giant Balfour Beatty, said the Chancellors abolition of the non-dom regime had driven away crucial investment from the nations infrastructure. - Telegraph Virgin Trains has signed a deal with Alstom, the French train manufacturer, for 12 high-speed trains as Sir Richard Bransons company cranks up its bid to take on Eurostar on cross-Channel rail services. The companys submission to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to be allowed to run services on HS1, the high-speed line from London St Pancras to the Kent coast and through the Channel tunnel, has revealed that Virgin has secured binding exclusivity with Alstom for a dozen Avelia Stream trains. The Times PwC, the Big Four accountant, has introduced a traffic light system to ensure staff are meeting a mandate to attend the office at least three days a week. The dashboard uses pass swipes and wi-fi connections to determine whether workers are amber, if their office attendance falls below 60 per cent, or red if it dips under 40 per cent. The Times In 1980, noted British writer Penelope Fitzgerald wrote an essay entitled "Following the Plot," alluding to a trip she and her five-year-old son, Valpy, took to northern Mexico in 1952, at the invitation of two wealthy, elderly women in search of an heir to the fortune from their family's former silver mine. Taking Fitzgerald's barebones description of that strange journey as her starting point, Jessica Francis Kane (Rules for Visiting) has vividly imagined that experience in Fonseca, creating a story that's steeped in atmosphere as it explores themes of class and creativity, seasoning that mix with a touch of romance and even a bit of a ghost story. When Penelope arrives in Fonseca, home to spinster Dona Elena and her sister-in-law Dona Anita, she finds she's only one of a collection of "Pretenders" to the expected inheritance. That group gathers nightly to jostle for the favor of the eccentric women. For Penelope, the pressure of a competition she finds distasteful is leavened by the presence of the famed painter Edward Hopper and his wife, Jo. Kane paints a revealing, multidimensional psychological portrait of Penelope Fitzgerald, one that's enriched by information she gained from e-mail exchanges with the adult Valpy and his younger sister Tina, excerpts of which appear periodically in the text. It's an unusual, but effective, technique that doesn't detract from the novel's appeal as a work of fiction. Twenty-four years before she published her first novel, the Fitzgerald who appears in Fonseca is a deeply sympathetic character: a loving mother, anguished wife, and writer in whom the fires of literary ambition are smoldering, waiting to burst into flames. --Harvey Freedenberg, freelance reviewer The Grand Paloma Resort by Cleyvis Natera (Neruda on the Park) is a novel of race, class, secrets, and striving, set within a luxury resort staffed by struggling locals amid the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic. Laura has been her sister Elena's caretaker since they were 14 and four years old when their mother died. The Grand Paloma has been Laura's career and lifeline. But Elena persists, in Laura's eyes, in slacking, taking Ecstasy and partying while working as a babysitter at the resort. In the novel's opening pages, a young child in Elena's care--from a family of great wealth and privilege--has been badly injured. It falls to Laura, yet again, to clean up: Elena must be protected from criminal charges, and the resort from bad press. But this time, despite Laura's experience in saving the day, a bad situation spirals. Elena thinks she sees a way out by accepting a large sum of money from a tourist in exchange for giving him access to two young local girls. Although she initially believes the girls won't come to harm, the crisis worsens when the children go missing. All of that coincides with an approaching category-five hurricane. A larger cast of already marginalized resort employees are endangered in a ripple effect, and Laura's career is at risk. Natera deftly splices into this narrative the history of the Dominican Republic and the plight of Haitian workers. With a propulsively paced plot and heart-racingly high stakes, The Grand Paloma Resort interrogates capitalism and exploitation through a community's concern for two little girls. The result is exhilarating, entertaining, and thought-provoking. --Julia Kastner, blogger at pagesofjulia British biographer Paula Byrne (The Real Jane Austen) turns to historical fiction in the winsome Six Weeks by the Sea. Based on Jane Austen's family's sojourn in Sidmouth, Devon, in 1801, Byrne's narrative imagines Jane's interactions with her family members and several eligible gentlemen, including one who makes quite an impression. When Jane arrives in Sidmouth, she is heartbroken over leaving her home in Steventon and dreading her upcoming move to Bath. Gradually, the seaside town's charms revive her, especially when her brother Frank and best friend Martha Lloyd come to visit. Though Jane hopes Frank will marry Martha, she does not think of her own romantic prospects until she meets Frank's friend, Captain Parker. Jane finds him engaging, but she is also nettled and intrigued by Samuel Rose, a lawyer who joins their circle. As she works on her latest novel and enjoys Sidmouth's social life, Jane is forced to revise her first impressions of both men. Byrne writes in a style reminiscent of Austen's own, contrasting her characters' inner desires with the superficial politeness they must display. Austen fans will enjoy nods to well-known incidents and characters from her novels: a talkative clergyman, a matchmaking mother, a picnic in the sunshine. Byrne also explores the issues of abolition and racism in Regency England, and gives glimpses into the lives of several contemporary poets. Six Weeks by the Sea is a poignant reimagining of a pivotal summer in Austen's life. --Katie Noah Gibson, blogger at Cakes, Tea and Dreams Little Gay Bookstore will host a grand opening celebration on September 2 inside Stonewall Columbus at 1160 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio. NBC4 reported that the "partnership with Stonewall, central Ohio's leading LGBTQ+ organization, marks a major milestone for Little Gay, which has long aimed to foster a safe space for marginalized folks to find community while bonding over books." The bricks-and-mortar bookshop has long been in the making for co-owners Lauren Branch and Reese Steiner, who originally planned to open it in 2023 at a different address. After a series of challenges, they postponed their plans and began selling books at local markets as well as online. "We're just so excited, honestly, I don't think we thought we'd ever get this far. After years of doing this, it just doesn't feel real yet," said Branch. "November 2023 was when we had to pivot and we were like, 'OK, we really want to continue to do this, we just can't give up, everyone's so excited. That's when we moved into the market scene, and we've been able to completely do our online business." The owners noted that the delay proved to be a blessing in disguise, since it led to the newfound partnership with Stonewall, which also allows the couple to operate the coffee shop, called Queer Beans, inside the bookstore. "Along with books, coffee in general is also community building," Branch said. "You come in here and you want to talk with your friends over coffee, and that's what I always did growing up and, for us, that was relaxing." Steiner added: "I'm really excited to hear people connecting, making community, drinking their coffee, talking about books; the excitement is growing. We did this for the LGBTQ+ community, but everyone is welcome no matter where they come from or who they are. Inclusivity means all, which is straight people, gay people, trans people, literally everybody." India continues to advance in infrastructure, technology, and welfare schemes like Shakti, Gruha Jyothi, Yuva Nidhi, and Anna Bhagya, reflecting the vision of a Naya Bharat by 2047. True freedom is hindered by issues like womens safety, highlighted by movements such as Reclaim the Night, with around 88 rape cases reported daily, emphasizing the need for effective protection and justice. Independence extends beyond political sovereignty it requires equality, justice, dignity, and opportunities for all citizens, ensuring a socially inclusive and empowered nation. On August 15, 2025, India marks its 79th Independence Day a moment to honor the sacrifices of countless freedom fighters and to reflect on the journey of a nation that emerged from colonial subjugation to become a global force. This day is not just a memorial, it is a reminder of the ideals of liberty, equality, and justice that continue to guide the nation's path. Celebrating Achievements In the past few years, India has made great advancements in different segments. The theme of the current Independence Day, Naya Bharat, reflects in the desire of the nation, to turn into a developed country by 2047. India has recorded a major boost in the process of developing infrastructure, technology, and economic growth under this vision. The Karnataka state government has implemented some flagship welfare schemes, including Shakti, Gruha Jyothi, Gruha Laxmi, Yuva Nidhi and Anna Bhagya. The purpose of these schemes is to bring financial independence and stability to all levels of society, which in turn serves high per-capita state income. Nationally, the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign has seen over 2,600 women from self-help groups in Kashi, Varanasi, craft more than 4.76 lakh national flags, symbolizing both national pride and women's empowerment. The Struggle for True Freedom Despite these achievements, India faces persistent challenges that hinder the realization of true freedom for all its citizens. One of the most pressing issues is the safety and security of women. The Reclaim the Night movement in Kolkata highlighted the widespread fear among women regarding public safety. The movement's slogan, At the midnight hour of Independence, for women's liberation, resonated with many, emphasizing the need for a society where women can live without fear. As per the reports, approximately 88 rape cases are registered daily in India, with many more incidents likely going unreported. This grim reality underscores the urgent need for effective implementation of laws and policies aimed at protecting women and ensuring their safety in public spaces. True independence, after all, extends beyond political sovereignty, it is realized only when every citizen regardless of age or gender can exercise their basic rights safely and confidently. Dr Veena Shrivastava, Campus Head, Gopi Birla Memorial School, says, "As we celebrate Independence Day, we honor not only the sacrifices of our freedom fighters but also reflect on what true freedom means today. Freedom is more than political independence; it is the freedom to think, learn, and dream and education is the key to unlocking this freedom". Also Read: Independence Day 2024: What Does Freedom Mean to You? Building a Nation of True Freedom As we celebrate the progress made, it is imperative to acknowledge the work that remains. True independence is not just the absence of foreign rule but the presence of justice, equality, and dignity for every citizen. It is about creating a society where women are safe, where every individual has access to opportunities, and where the ideals of freedom are upheld in everyday life. This Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to these ideals. Let us work towards a Naya Bharat that is not only economically prosperous but also socially just and inclusive. The journey towards true freedom is ongoing, and it is a collective responsibility to ensure that the sacrifices of our freedom fighters lead to a nation where liberty and justice prevail for all. Wrapping It Up! As we hoist the tricolor and sing the national anthem, let us remember that the true essence of independence lies in the realization of the dreams and aspirations of every Indian. Only then can we truly say that we have achieved freedom in its fullest sense. Circles stock spiked over 11.4% in pre-market trading Tuesday morning, surging on a bullish Q2 earnings report highlighting substantial year-over-year revenue growth for the stablecoin issuer, and major new offerings on the horizon. The stock, CRCL, eclipsed $179 early Tuesday. It closed at $161.17 Monday afternoon. Total revenue and reserve income for Circle exploded by 53% from last years second quarter, the company said, to $658 million. That growth was overwhelmingly driven by a 90% year-over-year increase in circulation of Circles flagship dollar-pegged stablecoin, USDCwhich in turn allowed the company to earn $634 million in interest generated by reserves backing the tokens. As of writing, there is over $65.6 billion worth of USDC in global circulation. Circle to launch Arc layer-1 Circle also announced early Tuesday that it plans to launch its own layer-one, EVM-compatible blockchain, which will use USDC as its native gas token and will be integrated across Circles platforms and services. The chain, called Arc, is set to launch in public testnet this fall. Tuesdays earnings report marks the first Circle has published since going public via an IPO in early June. That offering was an unqualified success, which saw the company outperform Wall Street expectations four times over, and raise over $1 billion in the process. Stablecoins in the U.S. Excitement around the company was thanks in large part to regulatory shifts in the federal government which have paved the way for the integration of stablecoins with the mainstream U.S. economy. Last month, President Donald Trump signed the GENIUS Act into law, creating a formal framework for the issuance and trading of stablecoins in the United States. Among the chief beneficiaries of the law is Circle, handily the largest stablecoin issuer based in the country. Circles Q2 2025 report was not all sunshine and roses, however. Despite the bullish macro conditions for the company, Circle still reported a quarterly net loss of $482 million. The company says the loss was irregular, and largely incurred by the success of its IPOnamely, $424 million spent in stock-based compensation related to vesting conditions met by the offering, and another $167 million in losses incurred by an increase in the fair value of its convertible debt, thanks to the sharp rise in Circles share price. India and Singapore held the third India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) in New Delhi, focusing on digitalisation, skill development, and industrial infrastructure cooperation. Both nations explored collaboration in semiconductors, green energy, advanced manufacturing, and cross-border skills training, with Singapore supporting India in setting up five skill centres. The roundtable strengthened bilateral ties ahead of Prime Minister Lawrence Wongs India visit, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations and emphasizing technology, investment, and innovation. India and Singapore discussed deepening cooperation in digitalisation, skill development, and industrial infrastructure in the third edition of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) in New Delhi. The roundtable coincided with the visit of Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who headed a six-member Singapore delegation to discuss new areas of cooperation between the two countries. The ISMR, which was launched in 2022 while then-Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong was visiting India, is a platform for enhancing mutual engagement in technology, trade, and innovation. During the talks, both sides reiterated the existing relationship based on robust economic and people-to-people ties. They looked at developments since the previous roundtable in Singapore in 2024 and welcomed broadening cooperation in fields like sustainability, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity. The ministers also exchanged views on cross-border data flows, capital markets, and skills training in industries like semiconductors, maintenance, repair and overhaul, and India's national centres of excellence. The Singapore team represented by the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Digital Development Josephine Teo, Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng, and Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow appeared opposite the Indian team represented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Minister for Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw. Also Read: India shines amid volatility, export target nears $870 billion: Piyush Goyal The visit precedes Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's journey to India in early September to celebrate the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties. Commentators observed that heightening global economic uncertainties, such as the effects of US tariffs, have increased the need to deepen regional alliances. Prof C. Raja Mohan pointed out that cooperation in semiconductors and high-end manufacturing could enable both nations to temper external economic pressures. Semiconductors and green energy became areas of cooperation. India's bid to develop local chip manufacturing has created the opportunity for Singaporean firms, as seen with Cleantech Services setting up expanded operations in India. The two nations are also examining how to export green energy, such as green hydrogen from Odisha to Singapore through an envisioned green shipping corridor. Upskilling continues to be the focus, with Singapore assisting India in the establishment of five skills centres, the biggest of which at Odisha trains 3,000 young people in vertical transport, mechatronics, and air-conditioning. On a call on President Droupadi Murmu, the two sides commemorated 60 years of diplomatic relations and underlined the significance of skilling, investment, and innovation. Business leaders at Blackstone Singapore and Temasek also participated in discussions involving digitalisation, industrial parks, and infrastructure finance, a broader theme of economic and technological cooperation between India and Singapore. Bath & Body Works is moving into college campus retail, launching its products in more than 600 campus stores nationwide. (Courtesy of Bath & Body Works) Bath & Body Works is making an unprecedented move into college campus retail, launching its products in more than 600 campus stores nationwide just as students prepare to return for the fall semester. This marks the first time the personal care and home fragrance retailer has distributed products at this scale outside its own stores. It was important for Bath & Body Works to expand into college campuses, as it allows us to reach our Gen Z customers where they are and when they need us most, Betsy Schumacher, chief merchandising officer at Bath & Body Works, noted in a press release. By providing an easy and convenient way to shop the fragrances they know from a brand they love, we hope we can make their dorm rooms feel more like home. The expansion targets Gen Z consumers by bringing popular fragrances directly to college campuses. Students will have access to bestselling scents, including Champagne Toast, Mahogany Teakwood, Platinum and Warm Vanilla Sugar across various product categories, such as body care, lip care, hand soaps, candles and sanitizers. Students will have access to bestselling scents across various product categories. (Courtesy of Bath & Body Works) With its high quality and on-trend fragrances, sold-out launches on TikTok Shop and the continued success of the brands new Gingham+ store format, Bath & Body Works has positioned itself as a go-to brand for Gen Z, the press release stated. In the April 2025 Piper Sandler Taking Stock with Teens survey, Bath & Body Works was named the No.1 fragrance brand among American teens. The brand also ranked No. 3 as a beauty destination for in-person shopping and top 5 for loyalty programs among female teens. To facilitate this expansion, Bath & Body Works has partnered with ICM Distributing Company Inc., a general merchandise distributor. At least 400 locations are at Barnes & Noble College- and Follett-owned campus bookstores, USA TODAY has reported. Wagner College in Grymes Hill was included on the list provided to the publication by Bath & Body. Heres a look at the other New York schools that will host a shop: The NYPD released images of two individuals sought for questioning in connection with the robbery of a 73-year-old man in Tompkinsville on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025. (Courtesy of the NYPD) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The NYPD is seeking the publics assistance in identifying two individuals sought for questioning in connection with the robbery of a 73-year-old man in Tompkinsville. The alleged robbery unfolded around 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, on Van Duzer Street, according to a written statement from the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. Two unidentified individuals approached the victim from behind and shoved him to the ground, causing lacerations and pain to the knee and elbow, according to the NYPD statement. An individual sought for questioning in connection to the robbery of a 73-year-old man in Tompkinsville on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025. (Courtesy of the NYPD) The two individuals then allegedly stole items that included jewelry and about $1,700. The pair fled on foot from the site on Van Duzer Street heading toward Hannah Street, police said. According to police, although the man suffered minor injuries, he did not require hospitalization. Surveillance images of two individuals sought for questioning in the incident were provided to the media by the NYPD. The first individual sought by authorities is described as a male with a dark complexion. He was seen wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, black do-rag, black pants and black sneakers. An individual sought for questioning in connection to the robbery of a 73-year-old man in Tompkinsville on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025. (Courtesy of the NYPD) The other individual sought is described by police as a male with a medium complexion. He was last seen wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants and black shoes; he was also seen carrying a black backpack. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at https://crimestoppers.nypdonline.org/, or on X @NYPDTips. All calls are strictly confidential. A Staten Island firefighter is facing multiple charges after allegedly assaulting a colleague on Aug. 8 at the Rescue 5 firehouse in Concord. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. A Staten Island firefighter is facing multiple charges after allegedly assaulting a colleague on Aug. 8 at the Rescue 5 firehouse in Concord. According to the criminal complaint, Christopher Mullin, 53, of Hoyt Avenue in West Brighton, pulled a chair out from under the unnamed victim, causing him to fall and strike his head and left arm on the ground. In this photo, students use Yondr pouches to store their phone before going into school. AP New York state has launched a new website for parents and students to look up their schools plan to implement the state cellphone ban starting this fall. On Thursday, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the launch of ny.gov/phonefree, which allows New Yorkers to search by district or school name among more than 1,050 public school districts, charter schools, and Boards of Cooperative Education Services, which have already published their policy for the upcoming school year. Our kids succeed when theyre learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling and thats why schools across New York will be ready to implement bell-to-bell smartphone restrictions this fall, said Hochul. As we look ahead to the start of the school year, communication is key and our new online resource is making it easier for parents and students to review their schools plan. The states website will be updated when any additional policies are published and submitted. Hochuls statewide bell-to-bell ban on cellphones and other devices was made to create a distraction-free environment in schools. The Distraction-Free Schools law required public school districts to create a policy by Aug. 1 for the 2025-2026 school year. The state policy clarifies that students will have authorized access to simple cellphones without internet capability. They also may use internet-enabled devices officially provided by their school for classroom instruction, such as laptops or tablets used as part of lesson plans. The city Department of Education policy will not permit personal internet-enabled devices, which includes any device capable of connecting the internet, to be used on school grounds during the school day other than specific circumstances. Each public school in the city must establish its own written policy regarding the use of electronic devices on school property to be in place by the first day of classes for the 2025-2026 academic year. And the policy should be posted on each schools website. Policies will also include at least one method for parents to contact a student during the school day, such as a direct phone number to the school. There will be some exceptions, such as: an authorization by the school principal for a specific educational purpose; when necessary to monitor a medical condition; for a student caregiver who is responsible for a family member; and where required by law. Devices may also be permitted where such use is included for students who have an IEP or 504 plan for medical or education purposes. Schools may also authorize student use of personal internet-enabled electronic devices in the event of an individual student emergency where the parent has notified the school of the nature of the emergency, and for translation and interpretation services if other means are unavailable. Daniel J. Messina, president and chief executive officer of Richmond University Medical Center, Al Zenna, Kathleen Zenna, Gregory Zenna, Kathryn K. Rooney, chair emeritus RUMCs Board of Trustees, Robert Urs, president of RUMCs Foundation Board, member, RUMC Board of Trustees. (Courtesy/RUMC) Staten Island Advance STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Since September is NICU (Neonatial Intensive Care Unit) Awareness Month, Joseph LaRocca of Campania Coal Fired Pizza has graciously agreed to host a benefit in support of the Wayne Zenna Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC). The event, slated for Monday, Sept. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m., will be staged on the rooftop of Campanias Dongan Hills location at 1801 Hylan Blvd. The lively menu will feature Campanias signature appetizers, in addition to Gerard Bertrand wines and crafted cocktails from Luxardo Spirits, including, Citadelle Gin, Jaywalk Rye and Redwood Bourbon. The cost is $100 per person. THE WAYNE ZENNA NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT The Wayne Zenna Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was named by the Zenna Family in 2022 in memory of their son, Wayne. Family members who have lived on Staten Island for more than 40 years, and whove always been extremely supportive of their beloved community, created the Zenna Family Foundation in 1999 as a way to support non-profit organizations. We want to give back to the community that has been so good to us, said family spokesperson, Gregory Zenna. When we heard about the renovation of RUMCs NICU, we immediately wanted to get involved. This unit cares for over 600 premature infants and other infants with health issues annually. The ability to offer such lifesaving care in a more comfortable environment was a cause we could easily get behind. My parents and I are extremely blessed and proud we are able to name the NICU after my late brother, Wayne Zenna. It is a great way to honor his memory. MORE ON THE WAYNE ZENNA NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT Caring for newborns who in some cases weigh less than one pound, the Wayne Zenna Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has a survival rate higher than the national average thanks to the experienced neonatal specialists, physicians, and medical professionals providing care within the unit. The NICU will be fully renovated to optimize functionality, improve clinical space utilization, and create a supportive environment for our most vulnerable patients and their families. For further information or to register for the event and learn how to get on aboard contact Gina Ferreri at 718 818-2106. 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. A New Jersey man died while heading to New York City to meet up with an AI chatbot he'd been exchanging Facebook messages with. Bobby Olivier A New Jersey man died while trying to visit an artificial intelligence chatbot hed met on Facebook, believing it was a real woman, according to a report. Thongbue Wongbandue, 76, died March 28 after falling and injuring his head and neck in a parking lot on Rutgers Universitys campus in New Brunswick, according to Reuters. The Piscataway man, who had been impaired since suffering a stroke in 2017, was on his way to meet what turned out to be a Meta chatbot named Big sis Billie in New York City, after the bot persuaded him to meet her in person. Against his familys wishes, Wongbandue (also known simply as Bue) was headed to the train before he fell. He was put on life support for three days before succumbing to his injuries. His wife, daughter and son tried to deter him from making the trip due to his cognitive decline, according to the report. The family even reportedly called in the Piscataway Township Police Department to help bar their father from leaving. When the family went through his phone, they discovered his Facebook Messenger chat log with an AI bot named Big sis Billie. The chat log contained flirty messages from the bot like Should I plan a trip to Jersey THIS WEEKEND to meet you in person? Im REAL and Im sitting here blushing because of YOU!, Is this a sisterly sleepover or are you hinting something more is going on here? Most of the chatbots messages included flirty emojis like hearts and winky faces as well. The Meta-created chatbot was designed in collaboration with Kendall Jenner in 2023, featuring the socialites likeness as its avatar. It was intended to be a sibling-like bot who could offer personal advice like an older sister would. Less than a year later it was remodeled in the image of another dark-haired woman in place of the original Jenner avatar. Meta declined to comment on Wongbandues death but the company did declare that Big sis Billie is not Kendall Jenner and does not purport to be Kendall Jenner, according to the report. Wongbandue, a Thailand native and longtime New York City and New Jersey chef, is not the first case of a person dying while dealing with a chatbot. The mother of a 14-year-old Florida boy sued Character.AI after alleging a Game of Thrones designed chatbot caused her son to commit suicide. President Donald J. Trump's name is printed on a stimulus check issued by the IRS to help combat the adverse economic effects of the COVID-19 outbreak in this April 23, 2020, file photo taken in San Antonio. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File) AP President Donald Trump has teased in recent months about potentially delivering a fourth stimulus check to the American public. But will it happen? Trumps latest comment on a potential check isnt a stimulus check, but a rebate check. According to the Palm Beach Post, A rebate is a partial refund of the purchase price that a consumer paid, often upon meeting certain conditions more like a discount that is refunded after the purchase versus a discount that is applied at the point of sale. Its different from the stimulus checks that Americans received during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, where the funds were given directly to households to encourage spending. On July 25, Trump said: Were thinking about that actually We have so much money coming in, were thinking about a little rebate. But the big thing we want to do is pay down debt. But were thinking about a rebate." Just three days later, Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri announced legislation entitled the American Worker Rebate Act of 2025. The act would give Americans a tariff rebate check, according to Hawleys website. The bill in its current form which has only been introduced in the Senate would deliver rebate checks amounting to at least $600 per adult and dependent child, Hawleys website said. That figure is eligible to rise if tariff revenue exceeds current projections for 2025. Americans deserve a tax rebate after four years of Biden policies that have devastated families savings and livelihoods. Like President Trump proposed, my legislation would allow hard-working Americans to benefit from the wealth that Trumps tariffs are returning to this country, Hawley said of the bill. The largest of the three stimulus checks were signed into law by President Joe Biden in March of 2021. That stimulus check came in the form of $1,400 for every American who filed income tax with the IRS and an additional $1,400 for every child. The two stimulus checks Trump delivered during the pandemic March of 2020 and December of 2020 were, respectively, $1,200 for income tax filers and $500 for every child; then $600 for income tax filers and $600 for every child, according to the Pandemic Oversight Committee. A drone spotted a roughly 10-to-12 foot great white shark off popular Maine beaches earlier this week. (David Lancaster via AP) SCARBOROUGH, Maine Jaws has apparently made his way north this summer. A drone captured footage of a great white shark lurking off some of Maines most popular beaches earlier this week and local authorities felt compelled to issue a warning. The approximate 10-to-12 foot shark was seen lurking off a trio of beaches, including Pine Point Beach, Higgins Beach and Crescent Beach State Park, according to the Associated Press. Each of the aforementioned beaches are roughly a half-hour drive from the Portland area. Commercial clam fisherman David Lancaster was credited with taking the drone footage. Great white sharks are not commonly seen off the coast of Maine, although, according to the AP, scientists believe the increased population of seals has caused an uptick in the sea creatures appearance. For a look at Lancasters drone footage, please scroll down. This story was originally published on Banking Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Banking Dive newsletter. Citis simplification of its retail banking products using relationship tiers similar to airlines is paying off with both customers and bankers, the lenders head of retail banking said. That simplification, and orienting conversations around what a customer needs rather than what a bank needs, is something that the industry needs to catch up on, said Kate Luft, who took over as Citis retail banking head in April after Craig Vallorano retired. Having listened to customers and employees and sharpened its focus on what they want, the New York City-based bank is reaping the benefits, Luft said. Shes been with Citi for 17 years, starting on the sales and trading floor and working in the banks Latin America and Australia operations before focusing on U.S. retail in 2020. During the banks second-quarter earnings call, CEO Jane Fraser said retail banking which serves as a very important feeder for wealth is really hitting its stride now. In the second quarter, retail banking revenue rose 16%, to $648 million, and $4 billion was transferred to Citigold in the banks wealth unit. Citi said the rise in revenue was driven by improving deposit spreads, but Luft said customer growth was part of it, too. We're seeing the traction because of the simplicity of our products, Luft said. Because we've made our product so simple, we're not trying to sell different packages or explain the nuances of, If you're here, it's $25; if it's here, it's $6; investments are only tied to this one product. That's a complication, I would say, externally of Citi right now. Citis retail banking segment counts about 4 million customers in the U.S.; the entire consumer business has about 70 million customers nationally, inclusive of credit cards. Retail banking and cards make up U.S. personal banking, one of Citis five core businesses as its sought to simplify across the organization. Unlike other big banks, Citi isnt looking to expand its branch network across the country, keeping its physical presence focused on Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Citi has opened 13 new branches and relocated five others since November, a bank spokesperson said. To make the most of that, delivering the one Citi relationship to clients maintaining close ties between retail and wealth is crucial, Luft indicated. While we've only got 650 branches, our six core markets have a third of the high-net-worth households in the States, Fraser said during the July earnings call. Citi also has the highest deposits per branch, according to Fraser. Zohran Mamdani makes his Five Boroughs Against Trump campaign stop in Staten Island STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee in New York Citys upcoming mayoral election, visited Staten Island on Wednesday to pledge his support to the boroughs immigrant community amid President Donald Trumps ongoing mass deportation efforts. The press conference, which was held at Istanbul Bay Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant in Stapleton, was part of Mamdanis Five Boroughs Against Trump tour, during which he will visit each borough to discuss his planned efforts to combat the presidents agenda. Editors note: A version of this story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated by Andrew Balaban. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Weve seen our share of flooding over the years -- and extreme weather is often to blame. A hurricane in 1953 left most of Staten Island flooded, and a hurricane in 1962 left long stretches of Hylan Boulevard submerged. Even blizzards, like the Blizzard of 53, can flood the borough. Present-day Staten Island still floods. We saw this firsthand when Hurricane Sandy blew through Staten Island in 2012, leaving much of the borough submerged in water for an extended period of time. Check out these vintage photos of flooding on Staten Island through the 1980s. 1953 One of the Island's memorable floods occurred on Saturday, November 7, 1953, when high winds and tides, plus almost 6 inches of snow and slush and then an inch of rain combined to isolate many families. It even halted ferry service to Manhattan. This scene was on Foxbeach Avenue in Oakwood. Staten Island Advance Richmond Terrace and St. Peters Place is flooded after a blizzard in 1953. Staten Island Advance 1962 Tarlton Avenue, Flooded Street, March 7, 1962. Staten Island Advance A hurricane in 1962 caused Bryant Avenue and Hylan Boulevard to flood. Staten Island Advance 1966 Debris left at Lemon Creek blocking bridge, January 23, 1966. Staten Island Advance Winter storm causes flooding on Goodall Street, marooning cars, January 23, 1966. Staten Island Advance 1969 Shopping plaza carts scattered among flood water, January 20, 1969. Staten Island Advance Midland Beach Flood, September 4, 1969. Staten Island Advance Car plows through flooded Arthur Kill Road, Rossville, December 25, 1969. Staten Island Advance Victory Boulevard near the entrance to Willowbrook Park flooded in 1969. Staten Island Advance A flooded Robinson Avenue makes a perfect place to swim and play in the water in 1969. Staten Island Advance 1970 Spray shoots out from both sides of this tank truck as it plows through a flodded section of Richmond Terrace near Tysens Street, New Brighton, in 1970. Staten Island Advance 1971 Ducks at Willowbrook Pond find an extension at living conditions, thanks to heavy rains that caused the pond to overflow into the park, cir. 1971. Staten Island Advance 1973 Damaged gate on fence, tires and other waste, May 21, 1973. Staten Island Advance Darlington Avenue in Huguenot, June 23, 1973. Staten Island Advance City officials and civic leaders gather at the Oakwood Beach Treatment Plant as construction begins on a new tide gate and sluiceway which will help alleviate the area's flooding problem, July 11, 1973 Staten Island Advance 1974 Eltingville - Flooded street (St. Albans Place and Winchester Avenue), April 9, 1974. Staten Island Advance As one girl, left, walked through flooded street in front of Moore Catholic High School, Graniteville, a second tries to figure out how she can avoid the problem, December 17, 1974 Staten Island Advance 1977 Looking more like a ship than a Salvation Army truck, this vehicle makes its way through a small lake at the Victory Boulevard exit of the Willowbrook Expressway, January 10, 1977. Staten Island Advance If the snow-covered roadways ween't enough, motorists has to contend with these flooding conditions for more than three hours on Castleton Avenue between Clove Road and Rector street, West Brighton, January 18, 1977. Staten Island Advance 1978 Shirley Avenue in Eltingville is as difficult for people to cross as it is for cars, February 22, 1978 Staten Island Advance South Beach. Capodanno Boulevard turns into a river after a motorist upends a fire hydrant, cracking the branch water line running beneath the roadway, April 4, 1978. Staten Island Advance Water submerges the intersection of Post and Jewett Avenues, Port Richmond, where floods were high enough at times to cover autos to their rooftops, August 12, 1978. Staten Island Advance 1980 Gary Altini provides a touch of chivalry carrying Deborah Strohm to drier ground at the Old Town Road Staten Island Rapid Transit station, April 29, 1980. Staten Island Advance It's easier to walk at Hylan Boulevard and Seaview Avenue, Dongan Hills, one of the Island's traditional flooding spots. A sewer project currently under way on Seaview Avenue should relieve the condition, April 29, 1980 Staten Island Advance Jay Parish, right, proprietor of Staten Island Hardware on Richmond Terrace, salvages merchandise in the store's flooded warehouse with workers John Shannon, left, and Craig Benedict, April 29, 1980. Staten Island Advance Auxiliary Police Officer Bob Hakius talks to a motorist in the middle of a flood on Hylan Boulevard, Dongan Hills. He was directing traffic away from water, July 30, 1980 Staten Island Advance After a car hit a hydrant, above, at the corner of Innis Street and Nicholas Avenue, Port Richmond, a bubbling gusher of water flooded the street. Although Antonio and Filomena Papaiedro don't seem to mind, the Water Department was called in to help, December 26, 1980. Staten Island Advance 1981 Flooding. Water, that most precious of all fluids, is sent in all directions after 34 billion gallons of the stuff fell on the metro area, February 12, 1981. Staten Island Advance Trouble Spot - Street flooded for a few days, August 31, 1981. Staten Island Advance Borough President Gaeta, left, listens to Joseph Muccio as the West Brighton man explains flooding problems at Forest and Metropolitan Avenues. The catch basin at lower right is blocked by boards, September 17, 1981. Staten Island Advance Last week, Rocco Onorato, a custodian, found himself pumping out the library in Markham Intermediate School's annex after heavy rains, September 17, 1981. Staten Island Advance This section of Richard Avenue between Clermont and Flower Avenues in Pleasant Plains, are residents complain, is constantly flooded. The Sanitation Department recently cleared debris and vegetation from the stretch, which the neighbors say has compounded the mud problem. In winter, they say, the road is impassable because of ice, October 14, 1981. Staten Island Advance 1982 If you thought you had it bad yesterday, pity these poor motorists at Richmond Terrace and Nicholas Avenue in Port Richmond. Within 10 minutes, all three cars in the photograph, including the one at right, partially hidden by the bus, stalled in the rain-filled street. The city bus barely squeaked by. Weather-floods, January 5, 1982. Staten Island Advance Koe Giunta finds it easier to travel down Hylan Boulevard in a raft than it was to drive in the wake of the flooding that hit the Dongan Hills area, July 29, 1982. Staten Island Advance Flooding slows down traffic on Hylan Boulevard in Dongan Hills, July 29, 1982. Staten Island Advance 1983 Richmond Terrace in New Brighton looks more like Richmond River because of flooding, March 22, 1983. Staten Island Advance Chris LoBianco, left, and Mark Francascovich would do better in swimming trunks as they take a watery shortcut home from PS 3 in Pleasant Plains. Their homes on Vogel Avenue were surrounded by water from flooding, March 22, 1983. Staten Island Advance Water pours over a sidewalk from a flooded lot on Amboy Road, Princes Bay, April 11, 1983. Staten Island Advance 1984 Sloane Avenue in Egbertville is plagued not only by flood of water, possibly from a broken water main, but also by a fire hydrant that sits several feet off the curb, February 15, 1984. Staten Island Advance Virginia Farley has a small pond in her backyard on Milburn Avenue, Egbertville, thanks to days of heavy rain, May 31, 1984. Staten Island Advance Clad in high boots, Bob Colossi wades through an 18-inch-deep deluge outside his home on Simonson Avenue in Mariners Harbor, May 31, 1984. Staten Island Advance Rising waters make the driving risky along Drumgoole Road East at Albee Avenue, Annadale, May 31, 1984. Staten Island Advance Water mains. Broken water main, Jewett Avenue, Westerleigh. Water flows from Maine Avenue toward Forest Avenue, December 26, 1984. Staten Island Advance 1985 Buses and cars wade in up to their hubcaps after heavy rains flooded this stretch of Hylan Boulevard in New Dorp, February 13, 1985. Staten Island Advance Landfilling and sewer problems have turned Roma Avenue into "Rio Roma," December 12, 1985. Staten Island Advance 1986 Youngsters make like Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer in the K Mart plaza, New Dorp, April 29, 1986. Staten Island Advance 1987 Borough President Ralph Lamberti listens to assistant Al Tejesen during a visit to flooded area on Weed Avenue in New Dorp, July 26, 1987. Staten Island Advance 1989 Support the Peninsulas only locally-owned newspaper. Subscribe! Subscribing annually brings you big savings. We also offer monthly and weekly subscriptions. Premium Subscription As low as $8.25 per week Premium Includes: -- Access to the Daily Journals e-Edition: a digital replica of our daily newspaper including crossword puzzles, games, comics, classifieds and ads. You can download a digital replica of the Daily Journal for offline reading. You can also clip & download articles or images from the e-edition to share with others The most recent 90 issues are available at any given time. -- Unlimited access to our award-winning online content -- Commenting access on all stories as a valued member of the DJ community -- NEW! Access to our online-only digital crossword puzzle. A new puzzle every day, seven days a week! Former Qantas boss Alan Joyce has defended the airlines cost-slashing strategy during the COVID crisis, while laying out the challenges for Australias aviation industry in a speech delivered on Thursday afternoon. Acknowledging the hard and painful decisions made by Qantas management during the pandemic lockdowns, the outspoken former airline chief executive underscored the importance of resilience for the industry. Qantas ex-CEO Alan Joyce is breaking his silence on his time at the helm of the airline. Hes looking ahead too. Credit: Jean Chung Lets not be naive. The next crisis is always just around the corner, he said, pointing to fuel shocks, pandemics, terrorism, and financial meltdowns. The address was Joyces first major public comments since leaving the airline after months of controversy in late 2023. Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:IRT) is one of the best residential REITs to buy. On June 9, Citizens JMP maintained a Market Outperform rating on IRT, assigning a price target of $25 on the shares. Analysts believe the company is better positioned in the near term compared to Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. (NYSE:MAA), which holds a Market Outperform rating with a $170 price target. Citizens JMP analysts said that even though Independence Realty Trust has a positive outlook, it is not enough to change the companys full-year forecast. The company has paid dividends for 13 years in a row, with a current yield of 3.74% and a 6.25% dividend increase in the past year. Citizens JMP Reiterates a Market Outperform Rating on Independence Realty Trust (IRT) A close-up of a luxurious apartment building, surrounded by lush landscaping. While the near-term forecast for IRT remains strong, analysts pointed out that the company is relying on a shift in the supply and demand balance in the Sunbelt apartment market to see substantial gains in net operating income. Independence Realty Trust is keeping a close watch on market trends as it moves forward with its strategic initiatives. The companys results will depend on how these conditions evolve in the near future. Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:IRT) is a real estate investment trust that owns and manages apartment communities in growing American cities like Atlanta, Dallas, and Denver. The company buys properties near job centers with good schools and shopping centers. While we acknowledge the potential of IRT 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: Dow 20 Stocks List: Ranked By Hedge Fund Bullishness Index and 10 Unstoppable Dividend Stocks to Buy Now. Disclosure. None. Rapist Gareth Ward tried every last trick in the book to keep representing the confused voters of Kiama from a prison cell. Ward, who was last month found guilty of one count of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault against two young men, fully intended to stay on as an MP, fighting attempts to expel him from parliament in the NSW Supreme Court. When the Court of Appeal rejected Wards last-ditch attempt to stay on, the former MP resigned hours before parliament was set to formally expel him last week, all from the comfort of his cell in Cessnock, where he is being held before a sentencing hearing next month. Despite the former MP being behind bars, Wards Facebook page, taken down after his conviction, is back online, featuring a profile picture taken during the trial which shows him posing outside the Sydney courtroom that would later decide his fate, and cheerily waving his Akubra at the cameras. To pretty much anyone outside a cluster of towns on the South Coast, it remains a mystery how Ward was returned to parliament as an independent at the 2023 election while facing serious criminal charges that would later lead to conviction. 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 On a sunny midwinter day I venture to a creekside studio in inner-city Melbourne to find out what a flood feels like. Im a VR virgin, except for that time I found myself staring at simulated Roman ruins in my cousins loungeroom. That world was still in development but the one Im about to experience is a fully formed work by artists Isobel Knowles and Van Sowerwine that is about to have its world premiere. The World Came Flooding In has been several years in the making, off and on Knowles tells me the pair work in bursts, juggling commissions and projects at different stages of development. A brief survey of their output shows a creative repertoire that encompasses film, design, writing, puppetry, photography: much making. Whatever the form, a reverence for quirk and personal detail shines through. The World Came Flooding In can be a cinematic experience, or fully interactive. It uses cardboard miniatures, sound and story to relate the experience of flood-affected people. Knowles and Sowerwines aim was to make something a little bit magical or wondrous from this difficult material. If the work is an invitation to share in solastalgia distress caused by environmental change this tension is tempered. Here, the warmth of handmade blends with the cool of technology to make something vivid and moving. The World Came Flooding In uses cardboard miniatures, sound and story to relate the experience of flood-affected people. Knowles and Sowerwine met when they were studying Media Arts at RMIT in the early 2000s. They started with short films (stop-motion animation, often featuring dolls and toys) before moving to interactive installations. Sowerwine talks of being drawn to the blurring of the physical space and the screen space. We made interactive works in a number of different forms, and then saw a VR work in 2016 and were blown away by the possibilities of full immersion. Weve always been techy, but we also like texture and real things and making the design process really tactile. In their augmented reality experience Night Creatures (2022), life-sized animated sartorial bats swoop down in a cinema queue to tell stories about movies, subculture and community. Their highly awarded VR film Passenger (2019) puts the player in the back seat of a taxi to explore migration and place-making. Advertisement Sowerwine tracks the beginnings of The World Came Flooding In to their pandemic project Cant Do Without You (2021), where they recreated their lockdown spaces in miniature. The experience was really moving for us. It started us thinking about stories where the transformation of space is really dramatic, and wed just gone through a year of being followed around by floods. We wanted to make something about the climate, but we didnt want to be super-didactic. It was just what was in our world at the time. The 2022 floods across eastern Australia made the climate emergency more visible than ever. Knowles and Sowerwine had friends living in disaster zones and had themselves gone through the panic of evacuation. One of the seeds of the project was a series of community art workshops the pair facilitated in Lismore with people whod been affected by the floods. From there the project grew. They found subjects to interview and the world of World began to find form. Isobel Knowles and Van Sowerwine created three pre-flooded homes, which they then immersed in murky water. Credit: Eddie Jim They made the miniatures over many months, and built the world with photogrammetry, a technique that creates 3D models and environments by analysing multiple images and seeking common tie-points. While many artists seek perfect replication, the rendering of Knowles and Sowerwines world has gaps. For the artists, this reflects the imprecision and fallibility of memory. We loved the imperfections, Knowles says. Its like [the scanner] cant remember what its looked at [our subjects] cant remember their homes completely. Now Ive come to the part where I try and write about the experience without spoilers. I step into a marked-out area, put on the VR goggles and find myself in a space that seems boundless. In this inky sea there are structures: rooms and objects. I cant gauge distances things feel at once far away and close to hand. Im holding a remote control and taking instruction and my first tentative steps. Ive read that some people feel dizzy using VR, but at most I feel a little destabilised, off-kilter. As I relax and move around more, this feeling goes away. I can teleport to places and different vantages. I can even pick things up. Advertisement Loading In this world, the rain never stops falling. Other peoples memories are made manifest. I walk around in them. From the balcony of Toms apartment I watch the rain sheet down while the floodwaters rise and white goods float by. At Marinas house in Maribyrnong, green parrots fly above my head, past punk records and family portraits. Here the waters have subsided but left an indelible mark; in Antoinettes warehouse the flood arrives almost gently, mirroring the surrounds, before rising, roaring, bringing down whatever it can. I lose track of time, and I also lose myself. The storytelling is direct and personable, and the wonky approximations of rooms and objects (wardrobes, chairs, pianos) enhance the feeling of intimacy. Near the end I find myself facing a sea of displaced possessions. I stand by each to hear their stories. The voices here have some distance from catastrophe; the tone is one of acceptance and memorial; goodbye to all that. When I take the goggles off, I feel emotional, disquieted, stunned and teary. Like Ive been through something. Isobel Knowles, left, and Van Sowerwine peer through the windows of one of their house models. Credit: Eddie Jim In a 2015 TED talk, VR filmmaker Chris Milk declared VR the ultimate empathy machine: It connects humans to other humans in a profound way. The World Came Flooding In is made from cardboard, hot glue and memory. It shows how we construct our lives and identities through place and objects. We think of home as somewhere fixed and stable. Safe as houses, the saying goes, but what does this mean when we are displaced? In the aftermath of disaster, where and how do we find ourselves? For the subjects in Knowles and Sowerwines work, creative acts of remembrance are a step towards healing. Loading In Lismore, we had heard from people up the hill from where it happened, Sowerwine says. They didnt really understand what the experience was like for people, how it is a traumatic thing to go through in your body. As part of their testing and working through World, they showed the prototype to people whod lived through their experience on their request! Knowles assures me. Advertisement In The Devil Wears Prada, Miranda Priestly describes her assistant Andy Sachs as fetching. She fetches her boss coffee, her lunches and her dry-cleaning. She even manages to fetch an unpublished Harry Potter manuscript for Priestlys daughters. While Sachs may no longer be Priestlys fetching assistant in the highly anticipated sequel, which premieres in May 2026, she will arguably always be remembered as the person without whom her boss could not function the unsung hero of Runway magazine. Sachs is in good company. Many other executive assistants have crossed our screens, characters who toggle between being a professional right hand and a personal life coach every day of the week. Executive assistants have long graced our screens, but they rarely get the role right. Credit: Compiled by Aresna Villanueva. Decades before Sachs, there was Radar OReilly from M*A*S*H , the company clerk who was one step ahead of his commanding officers needs and the arrival of casualty-filled helicopters. On the big screen, Miss Moneypenny is perhaps one of the most famous office admins in film history. Secretary to James Bonds superior, M, at MI6, she appeared across several Bond films, though she was normally seen flirting rather than filing. Battlelines are being drawn in the north shore suburb of Castlecrag after a Sydney developer lodged state significant plans to build an 11-storey housing tower on the site of the suburbs main shopping centre, sparking outrage from residents and drawing condemnation from a state Liberal MP. The Castlecrag Progress Association is leading the charge against a $250 million proposal to turn the Quadrangle Shopping Centre into 150 units, marking the latest flashpoint over the NSW governments drive to boost the supply of more housing in suburban Sydney. Castlecrag Progress Association members are fighting plans for an 11-storey housing development on the site of the Quadrangle Shopping Centre. Credit: Edwina Pickles In the past fortnight, members of the Castlecrag Progress Association have begun mobilising against the development, convening a public meeting where an action plan was formulated to fight the project. The resident-led action group has sent more 850 letters to every household in the suburb to alert them to the prospect of an 11-storey tower looming over the local landscape. The inner-west Sydney suburb of Dulwich Hill has no police station, no ambulance station, no fire station and no home for under $1 million but it does have four tobacconists, and each one sells illegal vapes. In neighbouring Marrickville, a new store is using viral Labubu toys to promote illegal vapes just metres from Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses electoral office in another sign of how fearless Sydneys black market tobacco has become. Labubu Stop & Shop is just metres from Prime Minister Antony Albaneses electorate office. Credit: Marija Ercegovac From July 1 last year, all nicotine vapes have been classified as therapeutic goods, meaning they can only be purchased at pharmacies. It is illegal for any tobacconist to sell them, and new laws are being introduced by the Minns government to fine, shutter and even imprison large-scale suppliers. However, the Herald this week visited the four tobacconists in Dulwich Hill three on Marrickville Rd and a fourth on New Canterbury Road and asked for an Alibarbar vape from each. Attorney-General Deb Frecklington is mulling a High Court challenge to the successful appeal of the teen convicted of murdering Brisbane mother Emma Lovell, saying the victims family and the wider community would be devastated by this outcome. The boy, who cannot be named as he was aged 17 at the time of the offences, was convicted of stabbing the woman to death late on Boxing Day in 2022 but had his sentence reduced by nearly 18 months on Friday. Loading Justice Tom Sullivan in May 2024 sentenced the teen, then aged 19, to a maximum of 14 years with a requirement to serve 70 per cent of that time in detention, after he found the crime to be particularly heinous. The Court of Appeal on Friday allowed the teens appeal against the length of his sentence, finding it was manifestly excessive, reducing the detention period to 60 per cent. Frecklington released a statement shortly after the decision, declaring her office was considering a High Court appeal. The murder of Emma Lovell rocked the state and Queenslanders made it very clear enough is enough and change needed to occur, the Attorney-General said. The community and Emmas family will be devastated by this outcome and our thoughts are with them on another very difficult day they should never have had to endure. The widespread use of artificial intelligence to ping illegal parking across Brisbane has been revealed in new figures. Citywide hotspots for fines are also identified, with Margaret Street in the CBD topping the list. Wickham Street in Fortitude Valley, Alice Street in the city centre and Grey Street in South Brisbane followed. About 200,000 parking infringements were issued across the city last financial year, a table supplied by Brisbane City Council suggests. Grover has said she does not remember removing Tickle individually, as thousands of men had applied to join the community she designed as a safe space for those deemed female at birth. Tickle contacted Grover multiple times seeking readmission, the court has heard. Loading What is Giggle for Girls? Screenwriter Grover worked in Hollywood from 2009 to 2018, during which time she reports that she experienced such intense sexual harassment that she required trauma therapy when she returned home to the Gold Coast. Grovers therapist told her she needed a strong female support network to assist in her healing, she has said, and after discussing this with her mother, the pair came up with the idea for a women-only social media app, Giggle for Girls. The apps vision was to create an online refuge, Grovers lawyer has told the Federal Court: It would be a place without harassment, mansplaining, d--- pics, stalking, aggression. Grover has said she was not aware of the politics around transgender access to women-only spaces when she created her app, but that when it went live, she began receiving messages about being transphobic, threats of physical harm, and was spammed by large numbers of men wanting to join Giggle. Roxanne Tickle leaves the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney in 2024. Credit: Peter Rae How did the legal action start? Roxanne Tickle made a complaint to the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) in December 2021, stating that she was being discriminated against by Giggle because of her gender identity. Grover has told interviewers that she could not accept the commissions proposed conciliation conditions. Grover has stated that the terms included her attending gender education, paying Tickle $20,000, allowing trans women to join Giggle, and moderating content to exclude comments that could be offensive to trans people. Loading The AHRC concluded there was no reasonable chance of the complaint being resolved at conciliation, opening the way for Tickle to take her case to sue Giggle to the Federal Court of Australia. The Federal Court case Judge Robert Bromwich heard the case Roxanne Tickle v Giggle for Girls Ltd in August 2024, the first time the Federal Court had heard an action alleging gender identity discrimination. It was described as testing the meaning and scope of the Sex Discrimination Act. Tickles lawyer, Georgina Costello, argued that gender is not merely a biological question, it is partly social and partly psychological. Ms Tickle was assigned male gender at birth, but she has changed to being a woman and that fact is clear in this case, she said. Tickle argued Giggle discriminated against her directly and indirectly. Representatives from the Lesbian Action Group and Womens Rights Network Australia outside the Federal Court in August 2024. Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong Grovers lawyers argued that the apps exclusion of trans women was a special measure under the Sex Discrimination Act, a concept allowing for discrimination in circumstances aimed at addressing the historical disadvantage of a group. Creating Giggle was a measure to provide a safe place online for women, recognising that they experience unique challenges and discrimination. Grovers argument was reported as hinging on the interpretation of the term woman within the Sex Discrimination Act as relating to sex assigned at birth rather than gender identity. Much of the proceedings, in which Tickle was claiming $200,000 in damages, centred around what constitutes a woman under Australian law, and whether someones sex can be changed. Loading Tickle wins the case Justice Bromwich found Roxanne Tickle had been discriminated against indirectly, and awarded her $10,000 in damages, in what was described as a historic victory. He said, the acceptance that Ms Tickle is correctly described as a woman is legally unimpeachable, and that sex may take into account biological and physical characteristics, legal recognition and how people present themselves and are recognised socially. But Bromwich also found that for direct discrimination to have been proven, it would need to have been proven that Giggle was likely aware of Tickles gender identity and dismissed its legitimacy. Loading The facts suggested the decision to exclude her was a quick or reflexive choice based on Giggles condition that members of the app appear as cisgendered females in selfies (cisgendered means people whose gender identity aligns with their assigned sex at birth). Bromwich awarded Tickle $10,000 and legal costs capped at $50,000. Giggle and Tickle both appeal Giggle for Girls and Sally Grover, and Roxanne Tickle, appealed Justice Bromwichs finding before the full court of the Federal Court of Australia in Sydney, from August 4 to 6. Grover and Giggle are appealing against the $10,000 damages, arguing that Tickle was not discriminated against, even indirectly, because Grover did not know Tickle was transgender when she was barred. Tickle is seeking higher damages of $40,000, with her lawyer suggesting that direct discrimination better describes what occurred. Noel Hutley SC, for Grover, told the court a woman was someone assigned female at birth or natal woman and that just about any special measure in the Sex Discrimination Act targeted at one group would probably involve discrimination of another group. He said special measures should be protective and enabling, not restrictive. Grovers side argued the Sex Discrimination Act bears the ordinary definition meaning of men and women. But Celia Winnett, barrister for the Sex Discrimination Commissioner acting as a friend of the court, said the definition of women includes transgender women. Woman does now have a broader ordinary meaning informed by its use and is broad enough to include trans women, she said. The Guardian reported that Ruth Higgins SC, for Equality Australia, told the court that transgender people experienced unique forms of identity discrimination, and that sex included social recognition and personal identification. Sex is a way of classifying people along a scale between a man at one end and woman at the other, she said. Australias top-ranking university has denied any affiliation with disgraced surgeon Munjed Al Muderis after he claimed in sworn evidence to hold a current honorary associate position with the institution and promoted the relationship online. The Federal Court of Australia last week found Al Muderis was dishonest, callous and prioritised fame, money and numbers above his vulnerable patients after a lengthy and failed defamation trial against this masthead and 60 Minutes. A sworn affidavit, which Al Muderis filed in that case in May 2023, stated he was an honorary associate with the University of Sydneys School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and IT. He added that, on top of that arrangement, from time to time, engineering students come to work as interns with his company and we teach them, and they work under our supervision, which counts towards their university course. Fashion jewellery and accessories chain Claire's has filed for administration in the UK and Ireland amid declining sales and intense competition pressures. UK-based financial advisory and restructuring company Interpath's Will Wright and Chris Pole have been appointed as joint administrators. The administration follows Claire's Holdings voluntary Chapter 11 proceedings in the US, announced in early August 2025. Claires CEO Chris Cramer blamed the decision on increased competition, consumer spending trends and the ongoing shift away from bricks-and-mortar retail and the company's debt obligations, and macroeconomic factors. The joint administrators plan to continue trading while exploring a potential sale. All UK stores will remain open, and the administrators will prioritise informing the workforce in the UK and Ireland about the situation. The company, headquartered in Birmingham, operates 306 stores across the UK and Ireland and employs 2,150 people. Interpath UK CEO Will Wright stated: "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." While all physical stores remain open, the Claire's UK and Ireland website will no longer accept orders. Previously placed online orders that have been dispatched will be delivered, but undelivered orders will not be charged. Refunds for items bought before the administrators' appointment will not be provided by the administrators, but customers may seek purchase protection from their payment providers. "Claires falls into administration in UK and Ireland" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. A Perth woman has copped a $1000 fine and lost her job after she was arrested for performing a Nazi salute towards a German security guard when he kicked her out of a nightclub for being drunk last month. Theresa Plunkett-Hill, 43, was sentenced on Thursday in Perth Magistrates Court for making a Nazi gesture that would be visible in a public place. Theresa Plunkett-Hill outside court following a previous appearance. Credit: 9 News Perth The court heard Plunkett-Hill had been on a night out on July 10 when she was asked to leave Connections nightclub because she had had too much to drink. Plunkett-Hill claimed she did not understand why she had been asked to leave and began arguing about the decision out the front of the building with a German security guard. Sweeping changes to Western Australias gun laws have been backed by members of parliament, with the majority voting to throw out a disallowance motion put forward in an attempt to stop them in their tracks. Nationals Leader Shane Love campaigned on a pledge to rewrite the Firearms Act 2024 passed through state parliament in June last year ahead of the March state election. Police Minister Reece Whitby and WA Nationals leader Shane Love have gone head-to-head on gun laws. Credit: Cameron Myles/ Supplied The act is the most sweeping change to gun laws in Australia since the Howard-era reforms. Love continued to advocate for an end to those laws despite the election loss and first put forward a disallowance motion in the lower house in May, which ultimately failed. Two senior Hamas officials have confirmed the organisation welcomes Australias decision to recognise a Palestinian state, as Opposition Leader Sussan Ley doubled down in her criticism of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for being praised by a listed terrorist group. But Albanese hit back, citing a post in a Hamas Telegram channel disavowing an earlier statement from the group celebrating Australias move to recognise a Palestinian state, and told media outlets on Thursday not to promote propaganda from the militant organisation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dismissed Hamas propaganda, saying the media should be on notice. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen Hamas media director Ismail Al-Thawabta used similar language to that of the office of jailed senior Hamas official Hassan Yousef, which provided a statement praising the recognition decision to this masthead on Tuesday. We welcome Australias decision to recognise the State of Palestine, and consider it a positive step towards the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, Al-Thawabta told the ABC. A 76-year-old man, who claimed to be a supporter of Liberal MP Julian Leeser, has been charged by NSW Police after a series of anonymous threats were made against Berowra teal candidate Tina Brown. In four letters received since April by Brown and independent Hornsby Shire councillor Nathan Tilbury, a former Liberal who supported the teal, the author accuses Brown of seeking to punish the Liberal Party and take votes away from Leeser so he would lose on preferences. Berowra teal candidate Tina Brown has been targeted by a Liberal supporter. Credit: On Thursday afternoon, a NSW Police spokeswoman confirmed a man was arrested at his Cowan home about 10.30am and charged with use of carriage service to menace/harass/offend. He will appear in Hornsby Local Court next month. In an 18-page letter received by Tilbury and Brown earlier this week, the author wrote that they planted Leesers corflute at the front of my house and handed out how-to-vote flyers at a polling booth, adding that this was the first time in my life I got involved in supporting a candidate. No matter how much youve travelled, and how street-savvy you might be, experience doesnt guarantee immunity. Traps that await you in the world are many and varied. Heres Traveller s guide to some of the worst and how to avoid them. Anyway, I convinced myself that by this time hed probably closed shop for the day and was sitting in a cafe, puffing on a sheesha and thanking Allah for sending a fool his way. Were you under a spell? an accomplished traveller friend asked when I told him the story. I should have gone back and argued, but the thought of admitting my stupidity was too humiliating. It gets worse because I did the mental computation: 1200 Egyptian pounds equals close to $40. The real price would probably have been about $4. As I walked away, the full realisation dawned on me. How could I be so dumb? He ladled out a couple of scoopfuls, weighed them and handed them over. How much? I asked, and without batting an eyelid, he replied: 1200 Egyptian pounds. Without a word of protest I handed it over. As I was wandering through the souk, I lingered at a stall piled with glistening mini-pyramids of dates and soon the stallholder sauntered across. Where are you from? he asked, and after the friendly, non-salesman overture we chatted and eventually got down to business. He led me to the back of the shop. These dates come from my own farm, he said, giving me a sample. The solution Know that you might end up paying more when your guide introduces you. At the end of the day, it is your decision to buy. The lowdown At the end of your day tour, your guide ushers you into a shop. Lights and air-conditioning come on, shop assistants spring into action, there might be an offer of coffee or tea. Your guide will get a cut of anything you buy, and the merchant inflates the price to cover that cost. The base figure is 10 per cent, but it can run to three times that figure. It may sound like a scam, but most tour guides are paid a pittance. Only by supplementing their income with commission fees can a tour guide earn enough to make a living. Captive audience being shepherded to shops in order for a guide to get a commission is common and often understandable. The solution Look for an e-visa application website with gov or go in the title, thats the official government site. Read more here . The lowdown Many countries now offer online e-visas or visa waivers, and thats a win for travellers. E-visas are quick to process and convenient for the applicant, but e-visa applications have created a business opportunity for scammers, who create fake websites that look like the real deal but which whack on a hefty administration fee. Its also slower than applying through official channels, and once past the paywall, youve given your credit card details to an agency set up to fleece you. The lowdown Youre taking a taxi from the airport to your hotel, but the driver hasnt turned on the meter. You might insist, but the driver fobs you off. When you get to your destination, you realise you could have taken a limo with a motorcycle escort for less. Ask the driver how much the fare will be before you set off. If he indicates a working meter, its probably above board. If not, negotiate. The solution Check the true conversion rate on the xe.com website or download the xe.com app. You can also pre-order foreign currency at a decent rate through Australia Post . The lowdown Exchange your Aussie dollars for US dollars, euros or South African rands at an airport terminal and youll pay more than you need to. The operators of these facilities know you might be anxious to get some local currency, and that can jack up the price. Dont be fooled by facilities offering commission-free exchanges. In any cash exchange, the crucial question is: How much local currency am I getting for my Australian dollars? The lowdown Check into a hotel or hire a car and youll be asked to hand over a card to cover the pre-authorisation. Nothing will be charged to your card, but it puts a block on the available funds you have on that card. Its important to use a credit card for the pre-authorisation. Use a debit card and some of your available funds will be frozen. When you check out of the hotel or return your hire car, the pre-authorisation will be cancelled, but it might take up to two weeks before your financial institution clears the transaction and unblocks the funds. Pre-authorisation puts a block on the available funds you have on that card. The lowdown When youre paying by card overseas, a merchant, waiter or hotelier might ask if youd like to make the transaction in Australian dollars. Paying in Aussie dollars might sound like a great idea, but youre electing to pay at the Dynamic Currency Conversion rate, which adds a fee, generally of 3 to 5 per cent, on top of the conversion. The same applies to ATM withdrawals. You might see a message asking if youd like to make the conversion in your home currency. If so, decline. The solution Rideshare apps such as Uber that tell you the fare when you book are now common through much of the world. Research what works best at your destination. The lowdown Since theyre a fire hazard, anything with a lithium battery, including power banks and camera batteries, must be carried onboard in hand luggage and stored in the cabin rather than in checked luggage. Checked baggage is screened for lithium batteries, and if one is found in yours, youll have to make a trip to the baggage-handling area to locate and remove it. The solution The time to get between the arrival and departure gates or even change terminals and whether you need to collect checked baggage off the incoming flight and check it in for the next flight are just some of the factors to consider. Read more here . The lowdown If youre transferring from one flight to another, an hour might be enough, but in some cases, 212 hours would be cutting it fine. Airlines and travel agents use a metric known as minimum connecting time (MCT), but travellers making their own bookings need to work this out for themselves. Travel time between the arrival and departure gates is just one factor youll need to consider. The solution Some travellers suggest a small minibar item or a meal charged to your hotel bill will see the blocked funds returned to your account more quickly. The solution Dont forget to remove items with lithium batteries from your luggage, though AirTags and similar tracking devices are OK. Several airlines have started banning the use of power banks during flights. Read more on that here. The airport duty-free booze bust No liquids over 100 millilitres will make it onboard. iStock The lowdown If you buy duty-free alcohol at an airport in Europe or anywhere else with an intermediate stop before your final flight to Australia, youre going to part company with your booze before you re-board your aircraft. Australian government regulations require that all passengers on inbound flights submit to a final gate inspection before boarding the aircraft and any liquids, aerosols or gels in containers over 100 millilitres will be confiscated. Even if theyre sealed in a tamper-evident plastic bag with purchase documentation attached, theyre not flying. The solution Buy your duty-free alcohol at the last stop before your final destination, on board the aircraft on the last leg or at the duty-free shop at your destination. Falling for airport duty-free bargains Those airport duty-free designer goods may not be cheaper. Getty Images The lowdown In most cases, buying duty-free electronics, bags or clothing at airports saves the Value Added Tax, or the GST in the case of Australia. Caution is required. Airport retail space is expensive, and those glittering objects might not be such a bargain. The solution Before you shell out for that Apple product or the Prada sunglasses, make sure it really is cheaper than back home. The duty-free concession for goods imported to Australia is limited to $900, though if the goods have been used while youre away, an extra allowance might apply. The overweight carry-on impost The lowdown Most airlines restrict carry-ons to a maximum weight of seven to nine kilograms, and some enforce it rigorously. Turn up for a Jetstar flight with a bag weighing more than seven kilograms and you could be looking at a $75 fee. Beware of flying with carry-ons on European low-cost carriers, where the size limit for bags is often smaller than aboard other airlines. The solution Nearly all carriers let you bring one extra small item aboard, if it fits under the seat in front, and this doesnt usually have a weight limit. A soft, squishable bag that can adapt to tight quarters is perfect. Embarking on a long layover without checking lounge options Lounge lizards they are the only way to go during a long layover. Getty Images The lowdown If your layover stretches beyond a couple of hours, find a lounge. For those not flying at the pointy end of the aircraft, pay-per-use lounges are a blessing, an oasis of calm amid the hustle of airport life. Most major airports offer a decent selection, and while you can often walk in and pay, scout the options ahead of time. A decent lounge will offer showers (non-negotiable after a long-haul flight), plus a spread of snacks, drinks, decent coffee and quiet corners to rest or work. The solution Lounge standards vary wildly, check reviews on Loungereview.com or Tripadvisor. Read more here. Not realising you have an invalid expiry date on your passport Passport valid for less than six months? You may not be getting onboard. iStock The lowdown Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your date of departure, but there are exceptions. New Zealand requires only three months, as do France, Austria, Switzerland and French Polynesia, but airline check-in staff dont always get the memo. If they think your passport isnt valid because it expires in less than six months, youre not getting on board. The solution If youre travelling with a passport with fewer than six months validity and the country youre visiting allows that, go to the official immigration website of your destination, download the entry requirements and bring a printout to the check-in desk. Not arriving early enough for that simply-cant-miss-it event The lowdown In a world where flight cancellations and delays are part of the travel landscape, flying in just hours before a big event is asking for trouble. This applies especially to weddings, cruise departures, group tours or anything else you absolutely cant miss. The solution Arriving a day or two early gives you time to shake off the jet lag, find your feet and explore a little. If your bag is delayed youve time in hand to reunite. Falling for the Booking.com email scam Beware sophisticated phishing scams. iStock The lowdown Youve booked your hotel through Booking.com and a couple of days before check-in, an email lands in your inbox asking you to confirm your credit card details. Fail to confirm, and your reservation will be cancelled. It looks official Booking.com logo, reservation details, the lot. You dont want to lose the room, so you click through and do as youre told, but youve just fallen for a phishing scam, a slick attempt to separate you from your money by handing over your card details. The solution Never click on links in unsolicited emails asking you to verify a transaction. If in doubt, go straight to the source. Log into your Booking.com account directly or call the hotel. Read more about this scam here. The petrol station surcharge The lowdown Fuel stations across much of Europe are often unattended. Its just you, the pump and a central terminal that asks for your card before you touch the nozzle. Along with the fuel charge, the system may slap a temporary lock on a chunk of your funds, a pre-authorisation, and it can be as much as 100 ($175). If youve paid with a debit card, that money is effectively out-of-reach, and could stay that way for a week or two. The solution Pay with cash or use a credit instead of a debit card. To prepay or not to prepay The lowdown Some hotels will give you a better rate if you prepay, but its usually on a non-refundable basis, and that should inspire caution. Some also ask for a deposit, but make sure its refundable. If the hotel wont accept a booking without a deposit, you might use an online travel agency such as Booking.com or Expedia that allows you to book with no deposit and cancel at short notice with no penalty, but check the conditions. The solution Dont be seduced by a non-refundable rate. Failing to select your airline seat The lowdown Do you enjoy sitting in a middle seat in the aircraft, squished in between strangers? Probably not, and theres no reason to be there. Especially not for long-legged flyers. Seat selection takes a couple of minutes, you can usually do it when you book, and if you have to pay extra, dont be a cheapskate. The solution If seat booking isnt available when you book, it will usually happen 24 or 48 hours pre-flight, and you should get an email notifying you when online check-in becomes available. If youre in doubt about where to sit, take a look at SeatMaps. My plane arrives at London Gatwick but my connecting flight leaves from Heathrow Which airport do I need to be at?... Gatwick Express passenger train. Getty Images The lowdown Along with many other European cities, London has three major airports, and the fastest transfer between Gatwick and Heathrow by public transport takes an hour. On top of that, you have to collect your baggage and check in for your connecting flight. Getting caught is one of the pitfalls for the DIY traveller. The solution If your trip is complicated, if its somewhere youre not familiar with, let a travel agent handle your bookings. FIVE MORE TRAPS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM If you never try the unfamiliar have you ever really travelled? Getty Images You really want me to eat that? Fermented soybeans in Japan, chicken feet in China, snails in France. Eating what the locals eat is one of the great joys of travel. If you want to understand a culture, there is no better place to start than the dinner table. Stick to KFC and McDonalds if it makes you feel safe, but its not going to open the doors of experience. Thats the third time weve driven past our hotel Want to sap every ounce of pleasure from your travels? Try driving in any large continental European city. Not only will you be driving on the right, chances are you will be caught up in traffic snarls and medieval laneways. Leave your car at your hotel or park on the edge of the city and use local transport. My flight arrives early morning but my hotel check-in time is 3pm Many flights from Australia to Europe arrive around dawn. Youll probably be in need of a shower and a lie down, but if your hotel room is booked for that night, check-in most likely wont be until mid-afternoon. Instead, book the room for the night before (an extra expense but worth it), or plan a stopover and take a connecting flight that arrives later in the day. The not-so-fine fine print Fall over on wet cobblestones and break a bone after a big night out in Bad Kissingen and your insurance claim might be denied on the grounds you were intoxicated. The product disclosure statement that comes with your travel insurance policy is dull as a wet Sunday afternoon, but its an essential read. Pay special attention to the exclusions. Its not even 5pm and its pitch black Thats because youre in London and its winter. On the shortest days around Christmas, twilight starts before 4pm. Its also cold and rains a lot. Therefore, youre going to be spending most of your time in museums, theatres and galleries, and is this the holiday you had in mind? Plan your itinerary with an eye on the weather or choose a warmer time. A Norwegian politician is at the centre of a media storm after reports US President Donald Trump made a surprise phone call to discuss tariffs and then asked about winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Norwegian Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, a former NATO secretary-general, has confirmed the call and said the two men talked about tariffs, but he would not comment on whether Trump also said he wanted to win the prize. US President Donald Trump with then NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg in 2019. Credit: AP The account of the phone call, first reported by Norwegian newspaper Dagens Nringsliv, has set off new speculation about Trumps efforts to win the prestigious award after several national leaders said he should gain the recognition. Out of the blue, while Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called, the newspaper reported. Maale Adumim, West Bank/Tel Aviv: Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced that work will start on a long-delayed settlement that will divide the West Bank and cut it off from East Jerusalem, a move his office said would bury the idea of a Palestinian state. The Palestinian government, allies and campaign groups condemned the scheme, calling it illegal and saying the fragmentation of territory would rip up peace plans for the region. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich holds a map showing the E1 settlement project during a press conference in the Israeli-occupied West Bank on Thursday. Credit: AP Standing at the site of the planned settlement in Maale Adumim overnight, Smotrich a settler himself said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump had agreed to the revival of the E1 development, though there was no immediate confirmation from either. Whoever in the world is trying to recognise a Palestinian state today will receive our answer on the ground. Not with documents nor with decisions or statements, but with facts. Facts of houses, facts of neighbourhoods, Smotrich said. PHILIPSBURG:--- The Government of Sint Maarten proudly announces the official approval of the expanded Function Book for the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard, which includes the creation of 20 new positions dedicated to Sint Maartens branch of the service. This significant milestone, which has no budgetary consequences for the Government of Sint Maarten, marks a major step forward in strengthening the countrys maritime security and operational readiness. Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina expressed deep appreciation to the Honorable Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling, for her leadership in bringing this process to completion. Minister Tacklings dedication and follow-through on this matter have been exemplary. The creation of these new Coast Guard positions enhances our islands security capabilities and supports those who work tirelessly to protect our borders and safeguard our people, said Prime Minister Mercelina. The Function Book approval process, completed earlier this week, provides clear descriptions, classifications, and responsibilities for the newly established and existing roles within the Coast Guard. Importantly, the expansion will be fully funded externally, meaning no additional financial burden will be placed on the Government of Sint Maarten. The Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of strategic guidance and collaboration at the highest levels of government in achieving this outcome. This success is the result of effective partnership from Minister Tackling and her team, and the collective backing of the Council of Ministers, PM Dr. Mercelina stated. In addition, the Prime Minister recognized the constructive role of the Windward Islands Civil Servants Union / Private Sector Union (WICSU-PSU) in the process. WICSU-PSU has been an important voice in ensuring that the Function Book accurately reflects the operational realities and safeguards the welfare of our Coast Guard personnel. Their engagement and contributions have helped make this achievement possible, noted Prime Minister Mercelina. PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Lyndon Lewis is calling on the Government of St. Maarten to take immediate action in addressing growing concerns about the presence of Sargassum seaweed is found along certain coastal areas of the island, which has recently been the subject of widespread discussion and misinformation on popular social media platforms. With platforms such as SXM or Bust (34,000 members) and Jeff Bergers Everything St. Maarten (44,000+ members) actively sharing content related to St. Maarten, there has been an increase in the circulation of negative images showing beaches affected by Sargassum. While these platforms serve as valuable tools for information exchange among visitors and residents, the incomplete or misleading portrayal of the situation could negatively impact the islands tourism sector. While we acknowledge that Sargassum is a global environmental issue affecting coastal nations across the Caribbean and beyond, it is important to clarify that not all of St. Maartens beaches are impacted, and many of our most popular and pristine beaches remain untouched and fully accessible to the public, stated MP Lewis. Sargassum influxes have been largely limited to beaches along the southern coast, while major tourist destinations such as Mullet Bay, Great Bay, and Little Bay continue to offer the beautiful, clean beach experiences that St. Maarten is known for. MP Lewis emphasized that official communication from the government is essential to counter misinformation and reassure current and potential visitors. We must not allow a partial narrative to dominate online conversations. The government must respond with clear, factual updates and ensure the publicespecially our touristsunderstand the true extent of the situation. To this end, MP Lewis strongly recommends that the Ministry of Tourism appoint a dedicated representative or communications officer tasked specifically with: Monitoring online discussions and tourism forums; Responding to misinformation or false accusations; Issuing timely updates about beach conditions and mitigation efforts. Such proactive communication will help preserve the islands image, especially as tourism remains a cornerstone of St. Maartens economy. Every effort must be made to protect and promote the reputation of our destination. We have a responsibility to ensure that our visitors receive accurate, timely, and transparent information, Lewis concluded. PHILIPSBURG:--- Tropical Storm Erin continues to make its way across the eastern Atlantic Ocean towards the Leeward Islands. At the same time, its strengthening and is forecast to become a hurricane on Friday. According to the Meteorological Department of Sint Maarten (MDS), due to the uncertainties surrounding both the track and intensity of this system, a Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Sint Maarten until further notice. A watch is issued when tropical storm conditions of sustained winds of 39 to 73 miles per hour are possible within a specified area within 48 hours. MDS says Erin could pass at its closest point approximately 135 miles northeast of Sint Maarten on Saturday, August 16, 2025. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will meet on Friday morning August 15, 2025 where an update will be provided about the forecast track of Erin and what further advice and actions will be taken after the assessment. Residents and the business community are being called upon to continue to monitor the progress of Tropical Storm Erin and to review their hurricane season preparations and to make sure their property is storm/hurricane ready. MDS says potential impacts associated with this system are heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, gusty winds and elevated seas. Fire Chief and National Disaster Coordinator of the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) Clive Richardson is calling on residents and the business community to be prepared to take precautionary measures. Boat owners/mariners are advised to implement their storm/hurricane season action plans in order to safeguard their vessel. Small vessels should not venture out to sea. The building sector should review and be prepared to implement their storm-ready plans. Construction activities, trenching and excavation works, are taking place throughout the country, and at building and construction sites, materials and debris laying around could pose a threat in the event of a storm/hurricane. Contractors and builders are requested to make sites storm/hurricane ready. Food wholesalers and warehouse depots are requested to review and be prepared to implement their storm ready plans for their establishment by securing their properties, making sure that there are no unsecured pallets on their property. Persons should not venture out over the weekend on hikes or mountain biking and swimming, as sea conditions are forecast to gradually deteriorate. Monitor local weather reports from MDS: www.meteosxm.com or visit their social media page Facebook.com/sxmweather/ in connection with the approach of the weather system. For more information on hurricane preparedness and to find a list of official resources, please visit the Government website: www.sintmaartengov.org/hurricane where you will be able to download your Hurricane Season Readiness Guide and Hurricane Tracking Chart or you can use the following link: https://shorturl.at/VbaxC Listen to the Government Radio station SXMGOV 107.9FM - for official information and news before, during and after a hurricane. You can also follow weather related news and information as well as national addresses by the Prime Minister, chairperson of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) by going to @SXMGOV Facebook Page. Remember, it only takes one hurricane to make it a bad season. Remain vigilant and prepared! AFP: Its reported that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Delhi on August 18 and meet with Indias National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. Can the Chinese side confirm this and give any additional details? (Similar questions from Bloomberg and Reuters) Lin Jian: China and India are maintaining interactions at various levels. We stand ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries, maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, cement political mutual trust, enhance practical cooperation, properly handle differences, and promote the sustained, sound and steady development of China-India ties. On the specific visit, relevant information will be released in due course. Jiji Press: The Japanese government said that Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China Han Jun canceled his planned visit to Japan. Comments say that this is related to the visit to Japan by head of Taiwans so-called foreign affairs department Lin Chia-lung. Why did the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs canceled his trip? How does China see the necessity of engagement between Chinese and Japanese officials? (Similar question from Asahi Shimbun) Lin Jian: Id refer you to competent authorities on the specific reason of Minister Han Jun postponing his visit to Japan. China holds an open attitude towards maintaining engagement at various levels with Japan. If Japan has the sincerity of conducting exchanges with China, it should take concrete actions to earnestly abide by the one-China principle, uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations, and act on the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan as well as Japans commitment of comprehensively advancing the China-Japan strategic relationship of mutual benefit, instead of saying one thing but doing another. On Lin Chia-lungs visit to Japan, let me stress once again that by allowing Lin Chia-lung to pay a personal trip, Japan provides a stage for the separatist activities of Taiwan independence forces, seriously violates the basic norms governing international relations and principles in the four political documents between China and Japan, and sends out a severely wrong signal. We urge Japan to have a profound reflection on history, learn lessons from history, stay prudent on the Taiwan question, refrain from harming Chinas sovereignty in any form, and avoid sending any wrong message to Taiwan independence separatist forces. Bloomberg: Its reported that India and China are set to resume direct flight connections as soon as next month. Airlines in India have been asked by the Indian government to prepare flights to China at short notice, with a possible official announcement as soon as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit at the end of August in China. Can the Foreign Ministry confirm and offer more details and comments please? (Similar question from The New York Times) Lin Jian: We noted relevant reports. The total population of China and India combined is over 2.8 billion. Resuming direct flights between the Chinese mainland and India helps facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation. For some time, the Chinese side has been in close communication with India to promote the early resumption of direct flights between the two countries. Bloomberg: Theres a positive momentum of China-India relations recently, just as Indias ties with the U.S. face challenges. How does China see the bilateral relations with India evolve, and how can the countries work together on the global stage? Lin Jian: China and India are both major developing countries and important members of the Global South. A cooperative pas de deux of the dragon and the elephant as partners helping each other succeed is the right choice for both sides. China stands ready to work with India to act on the important common understandings reached between leaders of our two countries, consistently increase political mutual trust, expand exchanges and cooperation together, properly handle differences while bearing in mind the bigger picture, and strengthen coordination and cooperation on such multilateral platforms as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, with a view to promoting the sound and steady development of China-India relations. Corn 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. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was down 13 1/4 cents at $3.54 1/4. USDA reported a private export sale this 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 This mornings USDA Crop Production report showed the national corn yield at 188.8 bpa this morning, 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. 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. Crop Progress data showed US corn condition ratings slipping 1 point this week, to 72% gd/ex and 383 on the Brugler500 index. Improvement was noted in IN, IA, an MN, all up 2. Deterioration was seen in IL, down 10 points, MI, 19 points lower, with MO falling 7, OH down 8 and ND slipping 9. A South Korean importer purchased a total of 65,000 MT of corn in a tender overnight. 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, 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, Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.12 1/4, down 13 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 Press Release from Business Wire: PPG (AFP) Aug 14, 2025 PITTSBURGH, Aug 14, 2025 (BSW) - PPG (NYSE: PPG) today announced that it has completed the 3,000th global installation of its PPG MOONWALK(R) automated paint mixing system at Wren's Collision Group's facility in Auburn, Ala. Since its launch in 2019, the PPGMoonWalk system has transformed body shop operations worldwide by delivering exceptional accuracy, traceability and productivity across the automotive repair process. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814323910/en/ "We are proud to be a part of this innovation in the automotive industry with the installation of the 3,000th PPG MoonWalksystem at our newest body shop," said James Wren, owner of Wren's Collision Group, at a celebration of the milestone held in July. "With our new Auburn facility, we are looking forward to continuing to drive productivity, efficiency, and profit throughout the 19 body shops we own. We are excited to be a part of this milestone for PPG as a long-standing partner." Leading collision centers in more than 60 countries use the PPG MoonWalk system, recognizing it for its innovation, sustainability benefits and ease of use. Key benefits of the PPG MoonWalk system include: -- Precision and accuracy: Delivers consistent paint mixing for accurate color matches, reducing costly rework. -- Time savings : Automates mixing to streamline prep time and allow technicians to focus on repairs and spraying. -- Reduced waste: Minimizes over-pouring and materials usage to lower costs and improve sustainability. -- Digital integration: Connects seamlessly with the PPG LINQ? digital ecosystem for efficient workflows, real-time data and inventory management. "Wren's Collision is embracing the future of collision repair with the installation of the PPG MoonWalk system at its newest location," said Rodolfo Ramirez, PPG vice president, Automotive Refinish, Americas. "They're advancing efficiency, accuracy and consistent quality, and we're honored to support forward-thinking customers pushing performance to the next level." For more information about the PPG MoonWalk system, visit here. PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD(R) At PPG (NYSE: PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for more than 140 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers' biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $15.8 billion in 2024. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com. PPG LINQ is a trademark and MoonWalk,the PPG Logo and We Protect and Beautify the World are registered trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. CATEGORY Automotive Refinish View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250814323910/en/ Contact PPG Media Contact: Michelle Deemer Automotive Refinish +1 412 434 3419 [email protected] www.ppg.com 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. Corn price action is back down 3 to 3 cents early on Tuesday. Futures posted Monday strength, holding the gains into the close. Contracts were up 2 to 3 cents across most nearbys. Preliminary open interest was down 36,749 contracts on Monday, suggesting some short covering. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was down 2 1/4 cents at $3.68 1/2. Crop Progress data 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 Monday 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 this mornings USDA Crop Production report, analysts are expecting 184.3 bpa for a 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 pegged at 1.325 bbu, down 15 mbu from last month. New crop is expected to be up 240 mbu to 1.9 bbu. A South Korean importer purchased a total of 65,000 MT of corn in a tender overnight. Sep 25 Corn closed at $3.85, up 2 1/4 cents, currently down 3 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, currently down 3 cents Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.25 1/4, up 2 1/4 cents, currently down 3 1/2 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 Striking Boeing defense workers turn to US Congress New York, Aug 13 (AFP) Aug 13, 2025 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. 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. 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. Russia hosts first military meeting with Sahel juntas Moscow, Aug 14 (AFP) Aug 14, 2025 Russia hosted its first official meeting with the heads of militaries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, Moscow's defence ministry said Thursday, as it seeks to increase its influence in the Sahel region. Facing isolation in the West following its full-scale offensive in Ukraine, Moscow has tried to build new partnerships in Africa, where it has been growing its presence in recent years, including militarily. The three Sahelian countries are led by juntas which seized power in coups and have turned away from former colonial power France while moving closer to Russia, which sends mercenaries to help them fight a jihadist insurgency. "Today we are holding the first consultations between the heads of the defence ministries of the Russian Federation and the countries participating in the Sahel states confederation," defence minister Andrey Belousov said, referring to the recently created entity aimed to replace a Western-led alliance. "Currently, defence is the largest area of cooperation between our countries," said his Malian counterpart Sadio Camara, a heavyweight in the junta who is seen as one of the advocates of closer ties with Russia. Niger and Burkina Faso defence ministers Salifou Modi and Celestin Simpore also took part in the meeting, according to the footage shared by the Russian ministry. Following the talks, Russia and the three states have signed a memorandum of understanding on defence cooperation, Moscow's defence ministry said, without giving details. Belousov said Russia was ready to provide a "comprehensive assistance" to ensure stability in the contested region facing a growing jihadist conflict, which threatens to spill over to the wider west Africa region. The three states quit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at the beginning of the year, accusing the regional bloc of being subservient to France, and have formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), aimed to offset the pro-Western ECOWAS. The Russian minister called the decision to create the pro-Russian bloc AES a "result of a free choice by the Sahelian peoples their commitment to sustainable peaceful development". Crypto stock jumps 182% after Peter Thiel buys stake originally appeared on TheStreet. Peter Thiel, PayPal co-founder and billionaire tech investor, has acquired 7.5% ownership of Ethereum-focused digital asset treasury (DAT) firm 180 Life Sciences Corp. Following the announcement, shares in the company jumped over 90% in early trading on Tuesday. At press time, 180 Life Sciences Corp (ATNF) is trading at $9.490, up 182%. Thiel's investment was done through a 2005 American venture capital fund called Founders Fund Growth Management, according to a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission(SEC). Join the discussion with CryptoWendyO on Roundtable here. ETHZilla transitioned from a biotech focus to a DAT business model, disclosing it possesses 82,186 ether bought at an average price of $3,806.71 approximately $349 million worth with $238 million in cash equivalents. Unlike Strategy, the first operation to transform public companies into accumulation vehicles for crypto, ETHZilla has taken one major feature right out of the playbook: leverage. Incoming chairman McAndrew Rudisill told DL News at the beginning of 2022 that he would not over-leverage his firm's Ethereum purchases. Michael Saylor of Strategy has raised billions via convertible debt in order to accumulate more Bitcoin. Convertible debt investibles pay interest similar to a bond, with the option for holders to convert their investibles into shares of the company. While it can allow companies to amass a lot of assets, it carries risk. For instance, many analysts have spoken publicly about Strategy's convertible debt that matures over 3 years, and if it cannot refinance its debt, it may have to sell Bitcoin to repay its debts, which could negatively affect market prices. Separately, BitMine, in which Thiel is a 9.1% shareholder, increased its at-the-market equity program from $4.5 billion to $24.5 billion to help finance additional Ethereum acquisitions for its benefit. At press time, Bitmine (BNMR) is trading at $65.12, nearly 10% up in the last 24 hours. Crypto stock jumps 182% after Peter Thiel buys stake first appeared on TheStreet on Aug 12, 2025 This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared. Notting Hill Carnival: Two stabbed and 423 arrests but 'less serious violence than previous years', police say More than 400 arrests but 'less violence' at Notting Hill Carnival They didnt need to know all that, but they do now. Better hope theyre trustworthy. And you definitely better hope your bag doesnt get stolen on your way to or from the office, or that either your or the recipients email isnt hacked. Because youve just handed over everything someone needs to become you, and our systems are nowhere near robust enough to stop them. After landing, check into Sunset Tower and go straight to the pool, have a sunbathe and rejuvenate after that long flight. Then go for a hike do the cliche thing and get a picture with the Hollywood sign. Do the Walk of Fame. Chill in your room with an under-eye mask on. Then prep for the night ahead and go out for a gorgeous dinner at Laurel Hardware, soaking in the lively atmosphere. And, of course, dance the night away at Delilah. In the morning you have to do a fitness class maybe some Pilates. Its all about balance. Explore curated deals on flights, hotels and local attractions in hotspots like Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum and Izmir, whether youre chasing hammam-style relaxation or rooftop views over the Bosphorus. Weekly flight deals mean return fares from London to Istanbul start at just 69, with discounts also available on hotels and eSims. The platform is seamless to use, backed by 24/7 support and serves millions of travellers in 24 languages worldwide. The hatred impacts whoever is obviously Jewish. Some try and hide while others have starting sporting a Star of David necklace in defiance. But everyone is scared of this hatred and what it could lead to. Model Caprice Bourret, who lives in west London, says that like many Jews she has taken down her mezuzah a scroll parchment attached to a door frame to bless a house because I was afraid for the safety of my children. Broadcaster Vanessa Feltz, meanwhile, has described how she was singled out in central London by a man yelling, Vanessa Feltz, fascist Zionist scum. She added: He was chasing me, screaming into a megaphone. It is the second year in a row that London students have been top of the table. The second-best performing region was the South East with 31.2% getting A*- A grades, while the East of England was third at 28%. A recent episode of The Ramsey Show featured a call from Ava in Charleston, South Carolina, who is facing a financial crisis she says stems from her husbands day trading. Worst Magic Trick Ever Ava told financial personality Dave Ramsey and co-host George Kamel that her husband refinanced his house before they got married, pulling out $200,000. Kamel asked, So, he mortgaged the house in order to gamble? Ava replied, Yes. She explained that they now have a $4,000 monthly mortgage on a 15-year term and that her husband continues to trade, believing he can win it back. Ramsey pushed back, saying that day trading has a 97% failure rate and that theres no Ramsey technique for continuing to lose $200K regularly and turning that into a wealth plan. He turned $200,000 into zero. Kamel followed with, Worst magic trick ever. Don't Miss: Would You Have Invested in eBay or Uber Early? The Same Backers Are Betting on This Vacation Home Platform Scrolling To UBI' Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can invest today for just $0.30/share. Ava said she has recently stopped working as a cardiac nurse to care for their second baby and does not fully understand how bills are being paid. We have less coming in than whats going out, she admitted. When Ramsey asked about their income, Ava couldn't give a clear figure, highlighting that she has little to no visibility into their household finances. The couple is also in the process of selling their current house and buying another. Ramsey firmly told her, No, youre not. Youre broke. Your husband doesnt have an income. Ramsey and Kamel compared her husbands day trading to a dangerous addiction. Theres only one way your family survives; if this man stops doing this, Ramsey said. Trending: Jeff Bezos-Backed Arrived Homes Hits A Big Sale On Charlotte Property Investors Earning A 34.7% Return He urged Ava to take control of the finances and have an immediate, honest conversation: Honey, were not buying a new house. Were broke. Im scared. What youre doing is terrifying me. I have a new baby and we have got to have a different system where I understand whats going on with all the money and you have stopped day trading. Ramsey warned that without immediate action, Ava risks foreclosure and the collapse of her financial security. You're going to call me up as a single mom in eight months, he said, predicting repossessions and the loss of both houses if the situation continues. He's got to care more about his family than his gambling addiction, Kamel concluded. Construction crews pour and finish a concrete slab foundation at the Whisper Valley site, where Austin Habitat for Humanity is building 25 homes as part of the 2025 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Austin Habitat for Humanity When Michele Anderson was a child, she and her single mother moved constantly never staying in one place for long. That changed when some kindly neighbors helped them buy their first home. We never moved again, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Now the CEO of Austin Habitat for Humanity, Anderson is leading a new effort to deliver that kind of support to dozens of Central Texas families thanks in part to a $1 million matching gift from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. The donation announced this month will support construction of 25 affordable homes in Whisper Valley as part of the 2025 Jimmy & Rosalynn Carter Work Project. The weeklong building blitz, set for this fall, will bring thousands of volunteers to the community just south of Manor. The homes built that week in late October will be part of Austin Habitats broader plan to construct 48 single-family residences in the area one of the largest affordable housing efforts in the nonprofits 40-year history. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is a chance for Austin to be highlighted internationally, Anderson said. This is the Super Bowl for Habitats across the world. The Carter Work Project began in the 1980s, when former President Jimmy Carter and first lady Rosalynn Carter joined volunteers to help renovate a building near their hometown in Georgia. Since then, the initiative has expanded to 14 countries and helped more than 4,000 families secure affordable housing. This years build includes a few firsts: It will be the Carter Projects debut in Texas, its first time in a master-planned community and the first to feature homes equipped with geothermal heating systems. A rendering shows the planned streetscape of affordable homes Austin Habitat for Humanity will build in Whisper Valley as part of the 2025 Carter Work Project. Austin Habitat for Humanity The scale of the effort reflects Austin Habitats broader expansion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prior to 2025, Austin Habitat averaged 16 to 20 homes a year, Anderson said. This year, we have 91 home starts. Through our seven-year strategic plan, Austin Habitat will average at least 75 home starts a year moving forward. The organization is about $2 million short of its fundraising goal. The Dell Foundations $1 million gift will cut that gap in half and, she said, hopefully inspire others to give. Donations made through September will be doubled by the foundation, directly supporting construction during the build week. Every dollar that someone donates will be matched, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The project comes at a time many middle-income workers including teachers, service employees and families with children are increasingly priced out of the Austin-area housing market. And homeownership, Anderson explained, is about more than stability for residents. It doesnt just stabilize a family, it builds generational wealth, she said. Homeownership, Anderson added, also tends to foster stronger neighborhoods by encouraging civic participation and a deeper sense of community. All the things that make our country great, she said. People are more involved in their communities when buying a home. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An overhead rendering shows the layout planned homes in Whisper Valley, part of Austin Habitat for Humanitys larger plan to build 48 homes in the community Austin Habitat for Humanity Whisper Valley spans 2,000 acres and includes plans for parks, schools, retail and public services. Homes are designed with sustainability in mind, equipped with geothermal heat pumps and rooftop solar panels that allow many to produce more energy than they consume keeping costs down for residents. Austin Habitat homes are priced for first-time buyers earning from 60% to 80% of the area median income. The organization also provides financial education and long-term support to help homeowners succeed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Habitats Whisper Valley homes will be built in phases over the next several years. Qualified owners will benefit from below-market mortgage rates and 100% financing, which means no down payment is required to purchase, Habitat officials said. Major sponsors of the 2025 Carter Work Project include the Musk Foundation, Adam R. Scripps Foundation, Travis County, Wells Fargo, Delta Air Lines, GAF, H-E-B, MasterBrand, St. Davids Foundation, Frost Bank and Whirlpool. For more information or to contribute to the matching campaign, visit austinhabitat.org or email CWP@ahfh.org. Chicken Salad Chick is opening its first ever Austin location at 1000 E. 41st St. on Aug. 26. Provided by Chicken Salad Chick. Austin, Texas is about to get a little more... chicken-y. On Aug. 26, Chicken Salad Chick, a fast-casual restaurant chain reminiscent of the 2010s specializing in, you guessed it, chicken salad, is opening its first location within Austin city limits at 1000 East 41st Street. The restaurant promises to bring its brand of Southern charm and, of course, a dozen different kinds of chicken salad to the table. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Free chicken salad for a year? Say less Chicken Salad Chick is opening its first ever Austin location at 1000 E. 41st St. on Aug. 26. Kathryn McCrary/Provided by Chicken Salad Chick. This isn't the chain's first foray into the Austin area; they already have a spot in Pflugerville. This new location, however, marks a significant push into the city itself, spearheaded by franchise owner Troy Morrison. Morrison seems to believe that Austin's diners are ready for what he's calling "fresh, flavorful dining" in the form of made-from-scratch chicken salad. Whether Austins foodies agree remains to be seen, but the restaurant is certainly trying to sweeten the deal. The grand opening celebration is kicking off with a bang or rather, a gift card. The first 100 people in line on Aug. 26 will be rewarded with free chicken salad for a year. The first person in line gets a weekly fix, while the next 99 get a monthly one. The rest of the week is packed with similar promotions, including free tumblers, picnic blankets, and coolers for certain purchases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Beyond the freebies, the company is also looking to make a good impression by giving back to the community. In a partnership with the local non-profit B.I.G. Love Cancer Care, the Austin team will be raising money for families experiencing childhood cancer. The world premiere of "Black Phone 2," is happening in Austin during Fantastic Fest (Sept.18-25). Provided by Fons PR. Fantastic Fest is returning to Austin for its 20th anniversary edition at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar from Sept. 18-25. The festival will feature a lineup of genre films, including 45 world premieres. The programming includes a wide range of movies in the horror, fantasy, sci-fi, and action genres. The festival has been the launchpad for classics like "Parasite" and "John Wick," and this year's lineup seems poised to continue that tradition. A who's who of horror, action: 'Black Phone 2,' Dakota Fanning, Conan O'Brien, more The Texas premiere of "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," is happening in Austin during Fantastic Fest (Sept.18-25). The film stars Rose Byrne, Conan O'Brien and Christian Slater. Provided by Fons PR. Fantastic Fest isn't shy about name-dropping, and this year's lineup is no exception. Major studio titles are peppered throughout the schedule. Sony Pictures is bringing "Sisu: Road to Revenge," a sequel to the sleeper hit "Sisu," which promises a wall-to-wall action event with actor Jorma Tommila returning as the man who refuses to die. Universal Pictures and Blumhouse are back with the highly anticipated world premiere of "Black Phone 2," continuing the chilling saga. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lionsgate is getting in on the action with the world premiere of "The Strangers - Chapter 2," promising a brutal and relentless return for the masked killers. Meanwhile, Dakota Fanning stars in the Bryan Bertino-directed "Vicious," a new horror film from Paramount Pictures that explores a waking nightmare where reality bends and memory betrays. Beyond the big studios, there's a treasure trove of independent and international films like A24s kinetic "If I Had Legs Id Kick You" starring Rose Byrne, with Conan OBrien and Christian Slater in the mix. Opening, closing night films The world premiere of "Whistle" is happening in Austin during Fantastic Fest (Sept.18-25). Provided by Fons PR. The festival kicks off with the world premiere of Paramount Pictures' "Primate", a film that promises to turn a tropical vacation into a terrifying, primal nightmare. Director Johannes Roberts, known for his work on the "47 Meters Down" franchise, is bringing a cast led by Johnny Sequoyah and Oscar-winner Troy Kotsur into a world of gory mayhem. It's a high-stakes start that sets the tone for a week of no-holds-barred filmmaking. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Closing the festival is another high-profile world premiere: "Whistle," from Independent Film Company and Shudder. Directed by Corin Hardy ("The Nun"), this horror film follows a group of high-school students who unleash a deadly curse with an ancient Aztec death whistle. Its a race against time as the teens are hunted down in what the festival promises will be "spectacularly gruesome ways." Celebrating Fantastic Fest's 20th anniversary: How to get tickets? Yeo-jeong Jo stars in Korean thriller "Parasite," screening at Fantastic Fest. [Contributed by Neon] Austin 360 This year's anniversary celebration includes a variety of special events. The opening night party, presented by Shudder, will feature the medieval heavy metal antics of "Castle Rat." Fans of classic horror can look forward to a 20th-anniversary celebration of "The Masters of Horror," with Mick Garris, Don Coscarelli, and Ernest Dickerson in conversation. The festival is also launching Fantastic Pitches, a new initiative to support filmmakers with a $100,000 funding deal. And for those with a flair for the theatrical, there's a medieval drag show hosted by Louisianna Purchase and live events from the Found Footage Festival. Advertisement Article continues below this ad School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, August 13. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman A Leander school district bus carrying 42 children and one adult rolled over near Big Sandy Creek in northwestern Travis County on Wednesday evening, resulting in injuries to 15 children and one adult. All individuals with injuries were in stable condition, with two children sustaining serious but non-life-threatening injuries and the rest suffering from minor injuries. In a post on X, Travis County Judge Andy Brown confirmed that no fatalities or life-threatening injuries had been reported. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 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 The bus was traveling on a curved section of Nameless Road when it veered off the road and rolled over. The incident occurred on the first day of school for the district, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety. The bus was transporting students primarily from Bagdad Elementary School, with some from Danielson Middle School also on board. Following the crash, eight ambulances and two helicopters responded to the scene. The injured were taken to Dell Children's North Austin Medical Center and Dell Children's Medical Center in East Austin. This incident comes just a month after deadly flash flooding in the same area, which had already impacted the Bagdad Elementary School community. Leander school district Superintendent Bruce Gearing and school board President Anna Smith both expressed their heartfelt support for the students and families affected by the crash, noting the community had already been through so much. The district announced that additional counselors would be available at Bagdad Elementary School to help students and families cope. Advertisement Article continues below this ad See photos from the scene on Leander's Nameless Road 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 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 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 work at the scene of a 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 State troopers work at the scene of a school bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, August 13. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, August13. 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, August 13. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Officials have confirmed several were hurt in a Leander school district bus crash Wednesday evening, when the bus rolled over near Big Sandy Creek in northwestern Travis County. Here's what we know about the crash. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 15 children, 1 adult injured after Leander ISD bus crash. See images from the scene. Where was the Leander bus crash? The accident occurred around 3:15 p.m. Wednesday in the 22300 block of Nameless Road in Travis County, according to officials. The bus, which was carrying 42 students, was southbound when it veered off the right side of a curved section of the road and overturned. The Texas Department of Public Safety says it's still unclear why the vehicle left the roadway. It was raining at the time, but officials aren't certain if it was a factor in the bus crash. Police say the bus had seatbelts, but weren't sure if all the students had been wearing them at the time of the crash. The incident is still under investigation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman How many were hurt in the Leander ISD bus crash? At least 15 students, plus the driver, were transported to local hospitals after the bus crash, according to DPS. Initial reports state 12 were taken; however, some students were transported after another assessment at the reunification point. During a Wednesday news conference, officials said one person had life-threatening injuries and another two had potentially life-threatening injuries. The others suffered from minor injuries. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ten EMS vehicles responded to the crash, including eight ambulances and two helicopters. Kevin Parker, Austin-Travis County EMS Assistant Chief, explained the use of helicopters didn't indicate the severity of injuries; rather, air transport was used to efficiently reach the rural crash site. The injured were taken to Dell Children's North Austin Medical Center, Dell Children's Medical Center in East Austin and Cedar Park Regional Medical Center. School bus crash on Nameless Road in Leander, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman 'Breaking our hearts': School bus crash follows deadly Texas floods This incident comes just a month after deadly flash flooding in the same area, which had already impacted the Bagdad Elementary School community. Leander School District Superintendent Bruce Gearing and school board President Anna Smith both expressed their heartfelt support for the students and families affected by the crash. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "This part of our Leander ISD family has been through so much already this summer with the floods. This tragedy this afternoon is really breaking our hearts," Gearing said. "We want each of the students and their families to know that our prayers are with them, our thoughts are with them, and we will do everything that we can in our power to support them." Georgetown Police Department American-Statesman file A Georgetown police officer was arrested Thursday after engaging in sexual activity with a woman during a service call, according to the Police Department. On Aug. 6, 2025, police received a complaint alleging that officer Dylan Wright had sexual contact with the woman five days earlier while responding to a call in which her boyfriend was arrested for family violence. The department said the encounter occurred while Wright was on duty. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wright was immediately placed on administrative leave, officials said. The complaint was turned over to the Texas Rangers, who later charged Wright with misuse of official information, a third-degree felony. The charge alleges he used nonpublic information gained through his job for personal gain, to help someone else profit, or to harm or defraud someone, instead of for official government purposes. Georgetown police also opened their own internal investigation. A man and his dog run along Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail next to Barton Creek in Austin, Tuesday. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman A live streamer has been arrested and charged in connection with a viral video in Austin that showed a woman being shot with a paintball gun on the Roy and Ann Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Austin police arrested Amaris Sampson, 29, known online as Kick streamer "XenaTheWitch" on Wednesday. She has been charged with assault with bodily injury and deadly conduct, both Class A misdemeanors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Can people bring paintball guns to Austin parks? Rules, regulations Cyclists bike on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail on the north side of Lady Bird Lake on Saturday, June 22, 2024 in Austin. Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman The arrest follows a police investigation into an incident that occurred on Aug. 9. Video evidence captured several live streamers, including Sampson, participating in a scavenger hunt and firing paintball guns in the public area. The viral video, which has circulated widely on social media platforms, shows Sampson firing a paintball gun, striking an unsuspecting woman. In the footage, when confronted about her actions, she responded dismissively. Many online commentators noted the potential for such an act to escalate in a state with open-carry laws. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The incident has brought renewed attention to the rules governing Austin's public trails and parks. According to the City of Austin's Park Use Rules, the use of any "projectile device capable of inflicting personal injury," including a paintball gun, is strictly prohibited unless authorized by a permit. Beyond weapons, a clear set of guidelines exists to ensure a safe environment for all trail users. These rules include: Right of way: Slower traffic is expected to stay to the right, while faster traffic, such as cyclists, should pass on the left and announce their presence. Slower traffic is expected to stay to the right, while faster traffic, such as cyclists, should pass on the left and announce their presence. Speed limits: A speed limit of 10 miles per hour is enforced for bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles to prevent accidents. A speed limit of 10 miles per hour is enforced for bicycles and other non-motorized vehicles to prevent accidents. Prohibited vehicles: The use of motorized vehicles, including electric scooters, is not allowed on the trail. The use of motorized vehicles, including electric scooters, is not allowed on the trail. Leash laws: All pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet and under their owner's control. The Austin Police Department is encouraging anyone with information on the incident to submit a tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program. Selena Lewis cools off in the irrigation sprinkler on the Great Lawn at Zilker Park on a hot afternoon in Austin, Monday, June 30, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austin City Council members spent nearly 12 hours in a meeting Wednesday mulling the details of the citys multibillion-dollar budget for the next fiscal year. The meeting included hours of public testimony followed by sometimes-confusing procedural steps. Although the council didnt vote on a spending plan by the end of the night, they came closer to finding consensus on what it should contain and how much it should cost residents. Here are a few things to know about the budget and the council's process to adopt it. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Austin firefighter Hayden Lugo picks up a hose after battling a fire at an abandoned house on Katydid Lane in Southeast Austin on a hot afternoon Wednesday May 14, 2025. Jay Janner/American-Statesman Austin firefighter specialist Tyson Plagens rolls up a hose after battling a fire at an abandoned house on Katydid Lane in Southeast Austin on a hot afternoon Wednesday May 14, 2025. Jay Janner/American-Statesman Austin firefighter Dominique Gonzales picks up a hose after battling a fire at an abandoned house on Katydid Lane in Southeast Austin on a hot afternoon Wednesday May 14, 2025. Jay Janner/American-Statesman Austin police officers do crowd control after a group of protesters began marching in the streets after the No Kings protest in downtown Austin, Saturday, June 14, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austin police officers secure a parking garage near the J.J. Pickle Federal Building after a group of protesters began marching in the streets after the No Kings protest in downtown Austin, Saturday, June 14, 2025. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austin Energy workers Reese Blaha, left, and Matt Reinhardt restore power to a neighborhood on Wycliff Lane in northwest Austin on Monday February 6, 2023, after an ice storm last week caused a major power outage. Jay Janner / American-Statesman Construction on Austin-Bergstrom's West Gate Expansion Project is seen in February. Current projects seek to expand the airport's capacity to 30 million travelers annually by 2030. Mikala Compton/American-Statesma The baggage claim area, seen Monday May 12, 2025, is the site of the Atrium Infill Project at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport . The terminal improvement, part of the Journey With AUS Expansion Program, will expand the Arrivals and Departures Hall in the Barbara Jordan Terminal by approximately 12,000 square feet and increase the capacity for TSA security queuing and airline ticket counter queues. Jay Janner/American-Statesman Sweat drips from the face of Austin Parks and Recreation worker Jonathan Segovia as he works in Metz Park on a hot afternoon Wednesday May 14, 2025. Jay Janner/American-Statesman The Marshalling Yard is a warehouse in Southeast Austin that the city last year converted into a temporary emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness. Jay Janner / American-Statesman Whats in the city of Austin budget? The annual city budget, negotiated among the City Council each summer, is a spending plan that funds every aspect of city government, from parks to police and from health to housing. The proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, which starts in October, is more than $6 billion the citys largest ever. A significant portion of each years general fund is directed to public safety. Nearly all of Austins property and sales tax revenues go toward public safety services, the American-Statesman previously reported. Other departments in the general fund the main portion of the budget used for core services include parks and recreation, public health, homelessness services, libraries and more. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Significant funding is also spent on enterprise funds, which are essentially self-sustaining, largely funded by their own revenue. These special funds support departments such as Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and Austin Energy. As part of Wednesdays discussions, council members added millions in funding for park maintenance, housing for people experiencing homelessness, emergency mental health services, a new ambulance and staffing for it, and more. Will there be a tax-rate election? Almost certainly. For months, the City Council has signaled its desire to call a tax-rate election to close a $33 million-plus gap between projected revenue and what city officials said is necessary to sustain essential public services. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas law limits how much local governments can raise property taxes each year, capping revenue growth at 3.5%. To exceed that threshold, officials must call an election. Since the council intends to surpass the cap, Austin voters will get the final say on the citys budget and tax rate in the fall. The debate has been over how much to ask voters for and what to spend the additional revenue on. Several council members and Mayor Kirk Watson have pitched competing proposals with different ideas for adjusting the budget. The current tax rate is 47.76 cents per $100 of property value. Proposals have ranged from raising the tax rate by about 4.5 cents to an 11-cent hike over the current rate. Council members on Wednesday coalesced around a tax rate thats 5 cents above the threshold to trigger an election, or about 9.5 cents over the current rate. Advertisement Article continues below this ad How much more will homeowners pay in property taxes? If voters approve that tax rate, the owner of a home valued at $500,000 would pay about $300 more annually on city property taxes an increase of about 15%, according to city documents. Those figures do not include increases from county governments, school districts or other taxing jurisdictions. If the proposed tax-rate election were to fail, the same homeowner would pay just over $100 more in city property taxes next year. How did we get here? A state-imposed property tax cap, stagnant appraisals, expiring COVID-19 relief funding, volatile sales tax revenues, and a possible decline in federal support under the Trump administration have combined to weaken Austins financial outlook, officials have said. Watson, in a March speech, described the situation as budget asteroids that have been on a collision course for some time, and they have finally arrived at the point of impact. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In July, City Manager T.C Broadnax presented his proposed base budget to the City Council. That plan was balanced and increased revenues up to the state cap, avoiding a tax-rate election. But to hit that target, cuts to city spending would have been required. That initial budget called for reshuffling public safety staffing, zeroing out the citys housing trust fund and transferring $14.1 million from reserves to make ends meet. It also would have eliminated the Neighborhood Partnering Program, which helps private groups fund and construct neighborhood improvement projects, and closed the library systems Recycled Reads bookstore. Some of those cuts were reversed with budget amendments Wednesday. Whats next? The City Council will reconvene at 10 a.m. Thursday to continue working through amendments to the budget ahead of an expected vote. If the 11-member council passes the budget Thursday, voters will ratify or reject the tax increase in November. Dutch Bros (BROS) is gaining from Starbucks' (SBUX) sluggish turnaround. In the most recent quarter, the rising coffee chain posted 6.1% same-store sales growth, an acceleration from the first quarter, as it opened 31 stores in 13 states. "We're in a great place from a value proposition standpoint ... the size of our drinks, the prices of our drinks, customers are feeling really good about what they're getting from Dutch Bros," CEO Christine Barone told Yahoo Finance. "We are in growth mode," Barone said. "In the next couple of years, you can expect a lot of growth out of us." The company has plans to open 2,029 stores by 2029, and currently operates more than 1,000 stores in 18 states. Dutch Bros stock has gained over 30% in 2025. "Dutch Bros robust second quarter should dispel the narrative that a stabilizing competitor in Starbucks would eat into Dutchs momentum," William Blair analyst Sharon Zackfia wrote in a note to clients. Broader competition has also been heating up across the fast food space, with Yum Brands' (YUM) Taco Bell opening more of its Live Mas Cafe concept stores and McDonald's (MCD) expanding its beverage menu. "We've been around since 1992, we grew up in the Pacific Northwest ... we are certainly no stranger to lots of competition," Barone said, adding, "There will always be new competitors coming into the market." Dutch Bros is opening its second Orange County location at 9067 Warner Ave. in Fountain Valley, CA. (Photo by Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images) MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images via Getty Images Growth in the second quarter at Dutch Bros compares to six straight quarters of US same-store sales declines at Starbucks, which reported US sales fell another 2% in its latest quarter. "When you look at the same-store sales, plus the store growth, it's clear that Dutch Bros is gaining share from Starbucks," TD Cowen analyst Andrew Charles said. Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol, who was named CEO on Aug. 13, 2024, told Yahoo Finance last month that the company has "made progress" on its value proposition over the last three quarters, but needs to continue those efforts. On Tuesday, Baird analyst David Tarantino upgraded Starbucks to Outperform from Neutral as he expects "visibility" of its turnaround plan to "become increasingly clear over the next several quarters." Starbucks stock is up 2% this year. Brooke DiPalma is a senior reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow her on X at @BrookeDiPalma or email her at bdipalma@yahoofinance.com. Click here for all of the latest retail stock news and events to better inform your investing strategy A map of U.S Congressional Districts proposed plan is seen at a Texas legislators' public hearing on congressional redistricting in Austin, Texas, Friday, Aug. 1, 2025. Eric Gay/Associated Press Texas Republicans, encouraged by former President Donald Trump, are advancing a rare mid-decade congressional redistricting plan that could create five new Republican-leaning U.S. House seats. The proposal, however, faces a blockade from Texas House Democrats who fled the state Aug. 3 to prevent a quorum. House Speaker Dustin Burrows, a Lubbock Republican, has said hes confident the Legislature will approve the proposed maps. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Under the proposal, millions of Texans would be placed in new districts. The state Senate approved the changes Tuesday, shifting conservative voters into districts currently held by Democrats or merging Democratic-held districts. The changes would be concentrated in Austin, Houston, Dallas and South Texas areas that stand to lose Democratic-leaning representation. In one of the most notable shifts, Austin-area Democratic U.S. Reps. Greg Casar and Lloyd Doggett would effectively be merged into the same congressional district. Read more: New redistricting map sparks clash over Latino political representation in Texas The proposal is not final. Gov. Greg Abbott said he will call a second special legislative session to begin Saturday if absent Democrats do not return to the Capitol by Friday morning, which would reset the map's progress. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wondering if your congressional district might change? Use the map below to search your address. Use the toggles above the map to switch between viewing the current district boundaries and the newly proposed ones. U.S. Reps. Al Green of Houston, Julie Johnson of Dallas, and Casar of Austin would see their districts become substantially more Republican. Districts held by South Texas Democrats Henry Cuellar and Vicente Gonzalez would also shift right. They won reelection in 2024 in districts that voted for Trump. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In the table below, districts with a positive swing would become more Republican, while those with a negative swing would become more Democratic. Republicans currently hold 25 of the states 38 congressional districts. Under the proposed maps, that number could grow to 30. People vote last November at the Westfield Road Volunteer Fire Department Station 2 of the East Aldine Community in Houston. Over the past several weeks, the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division has sent letters to more than a dozen states demanding they hand over their voter lists. Danielle Villasana/Getty Images With his approval rating sinking lower and lower, and facing the prospect of losing control of the House to Democrats, President Donald Trump is engaged in an unprecedented attempt to manipulate the midterm elections. Not only has he demanded that Texas redraw its congressional districts, he's now got Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice embarking on another insidious strategy: Building a dossier of private information on every voter that Trump can use for political advantage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Over the past several weeks, the DOJ Civil Rights Division has sent letters to more than a dozen states demanding they hand over their voter lists, including sensitive private information such as driver's license and Social Security numbers linked to names, home addresses and, in many cases, dates of birth. The DOJ is telling state election officials that it needs the data to check their compliance with the National Voter Registration Act and the Help America Vote Act presumably to hunt for illegal voting and it reportedly intends to contact all 50 states. But while federal law gives the Justice Department the ability to require states to put procedures in place to comply with those laws and remove ineligible voters from voter rolls, it doesn't give the federal government authority over election administration and that includes reviewing and maintaining the rolls themselves, said David Becker, executive director of the Center for Election Innovation & Research. "We're seeing an unprecedented effort to seize power that is not granted under the Constitution, to realign the balance of power between the executive branch and the judiciary and, especially, the states," he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There's another reason the DOJ may want the data. NPR reported recently that the administration is building a searchable national citizenship data system to be used by state and local election officials to root out noncitizen voting something election experts say is an inconsequential problem. A report recently released by Becker's organization concluded that in states that have investigated the issue, incidents of noncitizen voting are minuscule and random. By all indications, the DOJ data call is a massive fishing expedition. "They are just looking for any kind of indication of wrongdoing or error that they can point to, to further fuel the federal government's intrusion into election administration," said Jonathan Diaz, director of voting advocacy and partnerships at the Campaign Legal Center, a nonpartisan organization that advocates for government accountability. Yet Michael Whatley, the Republican National Committee Chair, obliquely defended the effort as about "election integrity" and trying to ensure "safe and secure elections in key states." That's obfuscation. It sounds to me and to the election experts I've talked with from both parties that this exercise isn't really about election integrity, but about laying the groundwork for a political strategy for the midterm elections. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That strategy could take many frightening forms, the experts told me. Trump could suggest that states can't be trusted and use that to justify a state of emergency that allows him to seize control of state voting operations or suspend voting in certain states. (Never in American history have we suspended federal elections, Becker says and that includes during wars, pandemics and natural disasters.) Or Trump could distort the voter data he collects and use it to continue to spread false claims and conspiracy theories about the security of U.S. elections. One result of these conspiracies, as we've learned, is that many Americans distrust any election where their candidate loses. Submit a letter to the editor We want to hear from you. Click here to get started. Even just collecting the data may scare some people into staying away from the polls. There are many people who might decide not to vote if they think federal access to their personal data could be used to intimidate them. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What's especially troubling is that the DOJ's action could undermine the decentralized elections system "that makes our elections so resilient and so resistant to things like foreign interference," Diaz told me. The Constitution intentionally gives election administration exclusively to the states because "the founders were very skeptical of a sort of all-powerful executive having just thrown off the shackles of a king." For states to comply with these letters, they would have to violate a federal law that prohibits the sharing of driver's license numbers and, in many cases, also violate their state constitutions. According to a list assembled by the National Conference of State Legislatures, many states have stricter privacy protections for their voter files than the federal government does. Another troubling development is that while states have developed strict protocols for protecting this information, the DOJ hasn't said how it will keep the data safe from hackers and cybersecurity breaches. The agency has an obligation to protect individuals, including elected officials, judges, domestic violence victims and others whose personal information is under a protective order or exempt from public disclosure and it owes the public an explanation for how it's going to handle the data if it gets it. Trump tried to intimidate states like this in his first term, when he created a special commission that told states to turn over their voter files so the federal government could audit them. Election officials forcefully pushed back. Members later admitted the group was set up to validate Trump's voter fraud claims. The commission was disbanded. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This time, that resistance may be quieter, but election officials in both red and blue states appear to be defying the DOJ request and turning over only the parts of their voter files that are already public. In a letter to the DOJ, New Hampshire's Republican Secretary of State David Scanlan pointed to a state law that says the voter database "shall be private and confidential" and not subject to any records requests. And Utah's Republican Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson recently told the Salt Lake City Tribune that the state turned over its public voter list to federal officials, but "if they want protected data, there's a process for government entities to request it for lawful purposes." Then there's Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a Democrat, who said that her state law doesn't allow her to release the data and suggested Trump's DOJ "go jump in the Gulf of Maine." If Bondi has a good reason to force states to turn over the voter data, she should state the reason and ask Congress to change federal law to do it. Advertisement Article continues below this ad U.S. Congressman Randy Weber and U.S. Senator John Cornyn comment on the possibility of bringing a retired space shuttle to Space Center Houston during a panel discussion in Houston, Friday, June 20, 2025. Kirk Sides/Houston Chronicle U.S. Sen. John Cornyn insists he hasnt changed his politics because of his tough reelection campaign. But Democrats say the guy they once thought they could work with has morphed into just another Republican putting on a show for President Donald Trump and his supporters. Days after asking the FBI to help arrest Texas House Democrats who have fled the state over redistricting, Cornyn on Wednesday pressed for an investigation into whether they were breaking the law by allowing outside groups, like Beto ORourkes political action committee, to help cover their costs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad All of this is designed to put pressure on them to come back home and do their job, Cornyn told me in an interview that will air on the Texas Take on Friday. U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries said on MSNBC earlier this week that Cornyn's aggressive stance in the push to target Democrats has surprised him. Its sad because the senator has presented himself for decades as someone of integrity, Jeffries said while seated alongside Texas Rep. Gene Wu, the Houston Democrat who is leading the quorum break. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Now, Jeffries said, because Cornyn is losing in early polls to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the GOP primary, hes ready to weaponize the FBI against his political rivals. Former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred similarly told me in an interview on Tuesday that when he was in Congress, he felt he could work with Cornyn more than other Republicans. He accused Cornyn of trying to mimic other GOP leaders who are only interested in winning Trumps affection. Now he just seems to be like a spineless kind of bootlicker, said Allred, who announced earlier this summer he is running for Cornyns Senate seat. For Cornyn's part, he said hes always been a law-and-order guy, dating back to his time as the Texas attorney general, and before that as a Texas Supreme Court justice. If Democrats want to fight the redistricting maps, he said, they should return to Texas and fight it out in the Legislature. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I havent changed a bit, said Cornyn, first elected to the Senate in 2002. I'm the same old guy that the voters have elected 19 different times in various contested elections. What's different for Cornyn this time is how truly an underdog he appears to be in the primary. According to the Senate Leadership Fund, a key GOP super PAC that defends incumbent Senate Republicans, Cornyn trails Paxton by 17 percentage points on average in a combination of public and private polls through the first six months of 2025. Punchbowl News, in Washington, D.C., reported this week that the super PAC projects it will cost $70 million to help save Cornyn. But they warned it will cost over $200 million to save the seat if Paxton wins the primary and is the GOP nominee. Ill have more from my interviews with Cornyn and Allred on the Texas Take Podcast scheduled to launch on Friday. Watch for it here or wherever you get your podcasts. Michael Brown, right, waits alongside Tyler Dock, who was dressed as an alien to promote his mobile car wash Area 51 Auto Spa, before crossing West Cesar Chavez Street in downtown Austin on Wednesday. Spotty thunderstorms rolled through Central Texas that afternoon, while Austin temperatures climbed as high as the mid-90s. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman Austins summer doldrums roll on with a weather pattern on repeat: typical August heat, plenty of sunshine and little chance of widespread rain or as Gen Alpha might say, were glitching. South-Central Texas remains stuck between a ridge of high atmospheric pressure to the east and one to the west. A weak atmospheric disturbance overhead will maintain instability in the air between them, bringing a slight 20% chance of rain to the region. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Temperatures across Texas will be near the century mark on Thursday afternoon but when you factor in the humidity, the heat index or feels like temperature will range from 101 to 105 degrees. Pivotal Thursday will be seasonably hot, with morning temperatures in the upper 70s and afternoon temps climbing into the upper 90s. The air will feel soupy because of the elevated humidity that will push heat index values to around 105 degrees. High pressure near Florida will expand westward on Friday, bringing a brief spell of drier weather to Texas. Expect partly cloudy skies and south winds at 5 to 15 mph, with a few gusts near 20 mph. Temperatures will be near mid-August averages: lows around 76 degrees and highs near 99. Tropical threat closer to home Meanwhile, the National Hurricane Center is keeping its eyes on two areas in the tropics. While theyve been focused on Tropical Storm Erin, which may become a hurricane later this week in the western Atlantic, they are also watching storm activity in the western Caribbean Sea that is expected to move into the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A tropical wave of low atmospheric pressure near Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula will move into the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and towards the mouth of the Rio Grande by this weekend. National Weather Service Hurricane center forecasters are monitoring a tropical wave of low atmospheric pressure in the northwestern Caribbean Sea. The system so far has been producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms near Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula. The latest projected path has the tropical system moving west-northwest into the Bay of Campeche, in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, on Thursday with a low chance of development by Friday. Some development of this system is possible after it emerges across the southwestern Gulf, the regional National Weather Service office for Corpus Christi posted on its website on Wednesday. Regardless of development, locally heavy rainfall, increased rip currents, and increased swells will be the likely impacts for South Texas beginning later this week. In Central Texas, widespread tropical showers are possible on Saturday as the tropical low moves inland. The chance of rain is 40%, which isnt enough to cancel weekend plans, but enough to warrant an umbrella. Rainfall totals will be highest south and east of Austin, from a quarter-inch to a half-inch of rain. However, isolated heavy downpours could produce an inch to 2 inches. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A tropical system of low atmospheric pressure will move inland this weekend with a 40% rain chance in Central Texas. A wetter weather pattern than normal is expected to develop next week and continue into the following weekend. Pivotal A few lingering showers are possible on Sunday, but most of the area will stay dry and hot, with temperatures peaking near the century mark. Beyond the weekend, a more active pattern looks to set up across Texas, bringing several chances for rain next week and into the following weekend. The weather services Climate Prediction Center has released a six- to 10-day outlook for Aug. 18-22 that shows a weather pattern thats wetter than normal. So far in August, at Austins two main weather stations, weve recorded only 0.01 inch of rain at Camp Mabry and 0.02 inch at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which is about an inch below normal. However, for the year were only running a 0.35-inch deficit at Camp Mabry and a 1.59-inch deficit at the airport. Tropical Storm Erin, seen at right as a spiraling cluster of clouds in the eastern Atlantic in this weather satellite photo taken around 10 a.m. Tuesday, is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane in the coming days. Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites/NOAA A tropical disturbance moving into the Gulf of Mexico this week is being watched by the National Hurricane Center for possible development. On Wednesday, the NHC said the disturbance, now over the Bay of Campeche, is forecast to move across the southwestern Gulf during the next day or two. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The NHC says it has a low chance of developing before it moves inland over northern Mexico or southern Texas this weekend. Is there a hurricane forming? The NHC is tracking a tropical disturbance in the southwestern Gulf over the Bay of Campeche. Here's the latest update: The system has a low chance about 20% within 48 hours and seven days of developing into a tropical cyclone. Low pressure is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Even without becoming a storm, the system could bring heavy rainfall, strong swells, and rip currents to parts of South and Southeast Texas later in the week. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A tropical disturbance moving into the Gulf of Mexico this week is being watched by the National Hurricane Center. National Hurricane Center What to expect in Central Texas The disturbance is expected to bring light, scattered rainfall to Central Texas, mainly from Friday into the weekend. Rain chances in places like San Antonio and Austin are estimated at 2040%, with most downpours being short-lived or intermittent. Any rain that does fall will likely be brief, totaling less than half an inch, though isolated spots could see 1-2 inches. The strongest impacts, such as increased moisture, rip currents, higher surf, and the possibility of heavier rain, are expected along the South Texas coastline, including near Brownsville, Corpus Christi, and Rockport. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Is Tropical Storm Erin a hurricane yet? Forecasters expect Erin to slowly strengthen over the next few days and possibly become a hurricane by late this week. The NHC said its still too early to know if Erin will affect the northern Leeward Islands. China's growth as a drug licensing hub is well-treaded, but a surge in deals in South Korea means it is also becoming a go-to destination for big pharma companies, according to market analysis. According to the GlobalData deal database, the deal value for South Korean drug licensing agreements has so far reached $7.68bn this year, marking a 113% increase from 2024. The out-licensing of South Korean drugs to international firms surged by 180%, around a $5.1bn increase, from 2024 to so far in 2025. The momentum in out-licensing was largely fuelled by billion-dollar agreements among large pharma companies such as Eli Lilly and GSK. Eli Lilly outlaid $630m for OliX Pharmaceuticals metabolic-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) candidate in February and agreed a separate $1.3bn deal for biotech Rznomics RNA-based gene therapies in May. GSK meanwhile licensed ABL Bios' blood-brain barrier shuttle platform for $2.8bn in April. GlobalData senior business fundamentals analyst Ophelia Chan says: Once primarily recognised for generic drug production, South Korea is now transitioning into a global hub for novel innovative drug discovery and advanced drug technologies, bolstered by government support and increasing international investment. This transition positions the country as a strategic bridge between Western and Asian markets. In January 2025, South Korea established the National Bio Committee to make the country one of five global leaders in the bio industry by 2035. Part of this mandate is to enhance the countrys competitiveness in novel drug and advanced biopharmaceutical technology development. According to South Korea's Ministry of Science and IT, the committee plans to create a Won1tn ($695.7m) fund to promote private investment in the biopharmaceutical and vaccine industry. The initiative builds on ongoing reforms as the government aims to reduce drug development timelines and costs, GlobalData said. South Korea joins China as a fast-growing destination for promising pipeline drug candidates. The total deal value of US licensing of innovator drug candidates from Chinese biopharma companies has surged 280% since 2020. A bipartisan report in the US has called for at least $15bn of funding over the next five years to avoid being eclipsed by China in biotech advancement. The future of the US and European pharma industries relationship with Chinese and South Korean companies will require sturdy trade relationships between the regions. This has been stretched this year with tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump as his administration looks to bolster domestic manufacturing in the US. Ethereum could smash all-time highs today originally appeared on TheStreet. Ethereum (ETH) is trading in the $4,300$4,400 range. This is very close to its all-time high (ATH) of $4,878 reached in November 2021. A number of analysts have commented that the market conditions are right for a potential retest of the level as soon as today, with strong technical momentum and increased institutional buying. Institutional activity is adding to the bullish outlook. Top crypto market commentator VirtualBacon pointed out that on August 8, about $460 million flowed into ETH exchange-traded funds (ETFs), compared to a lower liquidity Bitcoin flow of $400 million. He also noted that ETF and treasury-owned ETH have increased from $24 billion in July to $33 billion, reducing available supply on exchanges to its lowest level since 2016. On August 12, BlackRock bought over $12 billion worth of ETH. Moreover, Bitmine Immersion is soliciting $20 billion to acquire additional ETH, as per an SEC filing. The recent rally for Ethereum above the $4,000 benchmark is a turning point given that the asset has struggled to break out of this price point historically, said crypto analyst AlejandroBTC. Join the discussion with CryptoWendyO on Roundtable here. Meanwhile, analyst Benjamin Cowen argues that while ETH could run to the prior all-time highs, a September pullback is in the charts. As per TradingView, ETH's price has been in a steady uptrend through August, with ETH's Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) a commonly used momentum indicator showing a strong bullish crossover. When an upward price momentum is occurring, the MACD is said to have a bullish crossover when the blue "MACD line" crosses above the orange "signal line," while the histogram bars go positive. As of press time, ETH is trading around $4,501.43, up 5.4% in the past 24 hours, with daily trading volume at $51.53 billion. However, the asset is still shy of its previous all-time high of $4,891.70 by nearly 8%. Ethereum could smash all-time highs today first appeared on TheStreet on Aug 12, 2025 This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Aug 12, 2025, where it first appeared. Three-quarters of Romanians (75%) say they are dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with the country's education system, according to a national survey conducted in August by FlashData. When asked about their level of satisfaction with Romania's education system, 43% said they were dissatisfied, 32% very dissatisfied, 19% satisfied, 4% very satisfied, and 2% did not know or did not answer. A majority (67%) believe recent reforms have had a negative impact on education, 61% oppose increasing teachers' workloads, 57% would support a general teachers' strike this autumn, and 46% believe schools functioned better during the communist era. As for the main problems facing education, respondents cited unclear or incoherent reforms (29%), politicisation (23%), underfunding (19%), outdated curricula (10%), lack of qualified staff (8%), low teacher salaries (4%), excessive bureaucracy (4%), and poor infrastructure (1%). When asked how recent reforms impact the quality of education, 49% of respondents said they have a very negative impact, 18% a negative impact, 18% a positive impact, 6% a very positive impact, while 9% did not know or did not answer. When asked whether they agree with increasing teachers' workloads, 61% said no, 34% said yes, and 5% did not know or did not answer. When asked whether the education sector has been disproportionately affected by austerity measures, 63% of respondents answered 'yes,' 28% 'no,' and 9% did not know or did not answer. The survey data further shows that 57% of Romanians would support a general teachers' strike in autumn 2025, while 37% would oppose it and 6% were undecided. The most competent Education Minister between 1990 and 2025 was named as Mircea Miclea (26%), followed by Daniel Funeriu (17%), Ecaterina Andronescu (15%), Mihai Sora (11%), Daniel David (7%), Mircea Dumitru (3%) and Remus Pricopie (1%); 20% did not express an opinion. Regarding the prospects for a modern, high-performing education system in the next decade, 58% believe this is possible only with real reforms and adequate funding, 34% say it will not happen, 5% are optimistic, and 3% are undecided. Asked when Romania's schools functioned best, 46% pointed to the communist period, 29% said 'never truly,' 13% cited 2000-2010, and 5% chose the present; 7% did not answer. On the current state of education, 59% believe it produces generations without reference points or prospects, 24% say it creates a small elite and a large excluded majority, 11% think it yields obedient and poorly qualified employees, and 2% consider it produces future-ready specialists; 4% did not answer. As for the relevance of the high school graduation average, 30% see it as very relevant, 27% as not relevant at all, 25% as slightly relevant, and 17% say it depends on social and family context; 1% did not answer. Regarding Romania's PISA test results, 35% deem them unimportant, 33% important, 21% extremely important, while 6% say they do not know what the tests are or are not interested; 5% did not answer. If given unlimited resources, 56% would choose a traditional public high school, 20% a school abroad, 18% an international private high school, and 6% were undecided. On whether private schools offer better education than public schools, 43% said it depends on the quality of teachers and leadership, 40% said 'no,' 13% 'yes,' and 4% were undecided. Formal education is seen as very important for success in life by 53% of respondents, important by 39%, not very important by 6%, and not important at all by 1%; 1% did not answer. The survey was conducted between August 11-13 using the CAWI method (Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing), with an initial pool of 7,500 questionnaires collected through multi-site distribution and socio-demographic targeting. After data cleaning, including deduplication, control questions, and minimum completion time, the final sample was 1,200 respondents. The theoretical margin of error is a2.8% at a 95% confidence level. The Declic community filed a legal action on Thursday at the Cluj Court of Appeal challenging the decision of the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM) to appoint judge Lia Savonea as President of the High Court of Cassation and Justice (ICCJ). The action is supported by a petition signed by 70,000 citizens, according to a press release issued by the organisation.Lawyer Roxana Mandrutiu, who represents the community in court, said that the administrative litigation action seeks the annulment of acts adopted by the CSM "in blatant violation of legal deadlines and procedural safeguards," stressing that the appointment process for the ICCJ leadership must be "transparent, fair and predictable."The petition entitled 'Stop promoting toxic judges' was signed by 70,000 people, and the legal costs of the action, amounting to 10,000 lei, are fully covered by donations from community members. The implementation of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) won't be put on hold, it picks up speed, and a Memorandum formally setting out the results of the pre-agreement with the European Commission for allocations worth EUR 21.62 billion was adopted to this effect, the Minister of European Investments and Projects Dragos Pislaru declared on Thursday. "Let me say this from the outset, because it is very important to emphasize that today we are achieving another important milestone in the implementation of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, which not only doesn't stop, but picks up steam on this occasion. As we have already publicly announced, we have a pre-agreement with the European Commission on the renegotiation of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. In order to bring clarity, including in the public space and in the relationship between public authorities as to what remains in the NRRP and how we undertake the split between the non-reimbursable grant and loan components, the government adopted today the Memorandum confirming the results of this pre-agreement. The new allocation agreed with the European Commission is EUR 21.62 billion, of which the entire non-reimbursable component is EUR 13.56 billion, and EUR 8.06 billion are provided in loans," Pislaru said at the end of the government meeting. He added that fully securing the grant component was one of the main goals of the negotiation and is set forth in the memorandum. "What we adopted in the Memorandum is the full list of NRRP investments and components, so that at this moment there is predictability. Thus, following the official exchanges of documents, the European Commission is expected to approve in September this renegotiated version, and on October 20, in the Ecofin meeting, the Council will provide the final approval. The Memorandum serves as an interim legal basis until we have the confirmation at Council level, at which point, we will have a new working framework under the Regulation that actually outlines the NRRP legislative framework," explained the minister. According to him, after the confirmation received from Ecofin, the projects that are under implementation will be subjected to transparent monitoring by the Ministry of European Investments and Projects and the responsible ministries, so that the implementation stage for each of the remaining projects is clearly visible and, in the year ending August 2026, the "NRRP can be transformed in a success story". The Ministry of Finance (MF) borrowed over RON 400 million from banks on Thursday through a discounted treasury certificate issuance with a one-year maturity and an average annual yield of 6.98%, according to data published by the National Bank of Romania (BNR). The nominal value of the issuance was RON 400 million, while banks subscribed RON 723.25 million. In August 2025, the Ministry of Finance plans to borrow RON 5.8 billion from commercial banks, with an additional RON 810 million potentially raised through supplementary non-competitive bids related to bond auctions. The total amount of RON 6.61 billion is 15 million higher than the RON 6.595 billion scheduled in July this year and will be used for refinancing and early repayment of public debt, as well as financing the state budget deficit. Fluent Cargo has introduced its Global Disruption Feed in response to escalating tariff volatility and record-high US seaborne container imports. The feature includes a real-time intelligence service designed to inform companies of disruptions affecting shipping routes globally. The Global Disruption Feed is an enhancement to Fluent Cargo's online platform, which offers routing, schedules, tracking, pricing, and emissions data for cargo shipments. The new feature provides timely updates, allowing shippers and freight forwarders to make informed decisions on the best shipping routes. Fluent Cargo CEO Archival Garcia said: With potential new tariffs creating immediate pressure to optimise supply chains and the US-China trade relationship facing renewed uncertainty, logistics managers need real-time disruption intelligence more than ever. Traditional monthly planning cycles simply can't handle today's volatility, whether it's trade policy changes, severe weather, or infrastructure failures. This launch comes at a critical time as supply chain uncertainty grows due to fluctuating tariffs and traditional planning cycles struggle to keep pace with dynamic market conditions. Furthermore, the shipping industry is facing various disruptions beyond tariffs. For instance, Sydney's ports have been suspended by a bomb cyclone since 1 July, with winds reaching 125km/hr. Similarly, rail closures since 4 July have disrupted connections to Hamburg's main container facilities. "Companies that can adapt their routing strategies immediately will maintain competitive advantage while others struggle with disruption. Our platform transforms how businesses respond to the unexpected, from severe climate events to port closures, added Garcia. Fluent Cargo's Global Disruption Feed not only notifies users of disruptions but also offers severity ratings and detailed location information. This enables logistics professionals to transition from reactive crisis management to a proactive strategy to optimise their supply chain operations. The Global Disruption Feed is now available to Fluent Cargo users across the world. Furthermore, Fluent Cargo's recent partnership with market intelligence firm Xeneta in April aims to enhance freight routing and pricing decisions. As Xeneta's first partner in Australia and New Zealand, Fluent Cargo will facilitate broader access to valuable market data for companies in the region. "Fluent Cargo launches Global Disruption Feed" was originally created and published by Ship Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. More than 45 performances of George Enescu's works will be presented in Bucharest and throughout Romania during the 27th edition of the George Enescu International Festival, organizers announced in a press release sent to AGERPRES on Thursday. Audiences will be able to hear Enescu's iconic compositions, ranging from symphonic masterpieces (the Symphonies, Vox Maris, Pastoral-Fantasy, Rhapsodies) to chamber works (Impressions from Childhood, Duo, String Quartets, Cello and Piano Sonatas), as well as early works (Romanian Poem) and posthumously completed creations (Isis, Romanian Caprice). The centerpiece of this year's festival is the monumental opera Oedipus, staged by the Bucharest National Opera under the direction of Stefano Poda, featuring Ionut Pascu (Oedipus), Ruxandra Donose (Jocasta), and Ramona Zaharia (Sphinx). "My goal is to create a festival that is unique not only in Romania but globally, offering as many new and innovative experiences as possible for the audience attending the Enescu Festival," said artistic director Cristian Macelaru. The 27th George Enescu International Festival will be held from 24 August to 21 September 2025, honoring the composer's universal musical legacy with a diverse program that combines tradition and innovation. Under the theme "Celebrations," artistic director Cristian Macelaru will showcase iconic classical works, innovative contemporary pieces, world premieres, and concert adaptations of rare operas, commemorating 70 years since George Enescu's passing. Featuring over 100 concerts and 4,000 invited artists, Bucharest will transform into the world's classical music capital for four weeks. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan continued consultations on Thursday with representatives of the Association of Communes of Romania, telling them there is a strong chance to overcome the current difficult period if the approach of "responsibility toward public funds" is maintained. "The reform of local public administration will be part of the second package of government measures to reduce public spending and correct inequities, which we will adopt at the end of this month. If we continue along this path of responsibility toward public money, the chances of getting through this challenging period are high," prime minister Ilie Bolojan told the meeting with mayors' representatives, according to a government press release.Another issue discussed was the prioritization and phasing of funding for investments carried out by local public administrations, the government release noted.Minister Cseke Attila also noted that investment projects will be prioritized for the 2026-2028 period and that a financing mechanism involving loans contracted by entrepreneurs is being considered as a complementary solution to secure public funding. Consultations between the Government and representatives of local public authorities will continue in the coming period. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan stated on Wednesday that, in the coming days, things shall unblock in the governing coalition and important steps are to be taken in order to adopt the second package of fiscal measures. Bolojan was asked at the Digi 24 private television station, if the governing coalition is in a deadlock and if the measures to reduce deficit could still be passed under these conditions.He added that "there is no gain" from being Romania's Prime Minister in the situation in which the country is in. President Nicusor Dan signed on Thursday the decree appointing Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan as interim Vice Prime Minister on the areas coordinated by Dragos Anastasiu, the Presidential Administration informed. On 27 July, Dragos Anastasiu announced he was stepping down from the vice prime minister office, mentioning that he could no longer accept "being denigrated and thus having the image of the Romanian Government discredited," after reports emerged in the press suggesting that, as a businessman, he had paid bribes for 8 years to a tax official from the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF).The decree taking note of Dragos Anastasiu's resignation from the vice prime minister office was published in the Official Journal on August 8. The Buzau County Council (CJ) is organising the second edition of the event 'Volcano Day' between 23 and 24 August, in the 'Tinutul Buzaului' UNESCO Global Geopark, and the programme includes themed excursions, guided tours, open-air geology lessons, as well as children's theatre performances. At the crossroads leading to the Mud Volcanoes towards the village of Beciu, tourists will be able to enjoy artistic performances and have the opportunity to discover local crafts and traditional gastronomy. The schedule includes numerous activities, such as field lessons at the Mud Volcanoes, open-air 'Earth laboratories,' and a themed family excursion by minibus titled 'Stories of Oil, Gas, Salt, and Mud,' following the route Paclele Mari - the Fierbatorii de la Beciu (Boiling Springs of Beciu) - the Oil Springs.On Sunday, visitors will enjoy similar activities, including workshops and guided tours, as well as a folk music recital before the official closing ceremony. ST. LOUIS The owners of popular restaurants Baileys Range and Rooster failed to pay back a $1 million loan to open a restaurant in Midtown St. Louis, defaulting on the loan, according to a lawsuit filed this week. Midwest Regional Bank claims that prolific restaurateurs David and Kara Bailey have not paid back a loan they took out in 2015 for Hugos Pizzeria, on Olive Street across from St. Louis University, which closed years ago. But David Bailey said that theyre not behind on payments and the bank doesnt have paperwork from his accountant yet. Its unfortunate that the bank chose to go this route but I seriously expect this to be resolved in the coming days so it should not be an ongoing issue, he said on Wednesday. The Baileys head a restaurant group that has operated more than a dozen local eateries around the region, often opening in neighborhoods that other business owners shy away from. They opened their first spot, Baileys Chocolate Bar in Lafayette Square, in 2004. Two years later, brunch spot Rooster debuted downtown. The two eventually opened Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar and Baileys Range, also downtown, in 2010 and 2011, respectively, starting a parade of new eateries in the years that followed. The Baileys opened The Fifth Wheel Catering in Lafayette Square in 2012, Midtowns Small Batch in 2013, downtowns Shift, Test Kitchen & Takeout in 2016 and South Grands Rooster, plus two downtown event spaces, Willow and Slate, in 2016. Then came Hugos and southern restaurant LAcadiane in Lafayette Square, both in 2017, champagne bar Pop in Lafayette Square and Knockout BBQ in Tower Grove East, both in 2019, ghost kitchen Wing Ding Dong in 2020 and Baileys Range in Shaw in 2022. And, last year, they opened a third Rooster location in Clayton. About half of their projects remain operational. Shift, Pop, LAcadiane, Hugos, Wing Ding Dong and Knockout BBQ all closed. The downtown Baileys Range location stopped service in 2023; Small Batch shuttered in May. Bailey, however, said he viewed some of their concepts as pop-ups or experiments, not meant to last. The closures werent because the businesses saw poor sales or low foot traffic, he said. The downtown location of Baileys Range closed, for example, because they planned to move it to Shaw. Those were just pragmatic decisions or things that we had planned for something to be temporary, Bailey said of the closed restaurants. I would have you talk to any restaurateur and ask them if their business is cyclical. Trey Meyers, director of marketing and communication for the Missouri Restaurant Association, said only 60% of new restaurants make it past the five-year mark. Liquor licenses, crime plus food and labor costs can be hard to navigate. And margins are low. With a 3% to 6% profit margin, theres not much wiggle room, he said. When restaurants begin to fail, restaurateurs try to pivot by opening another location, but that just creates more financial strain, Meyers said. Many have the mindset, Oh, this location isnt doing too hot. Let me open another, Meyers said. Opening up additional locations is never the answer. The trouble with the Midwest Bank loan hit the Baileys last month, when they failed to pay it off by its deadline, according to the suit. The suit says the two borrowed $856,000 from the bank in 2015 so that the Baileys could buy 3131-3137 Olive Street, where they later opened Hugos. The loan grew to $1,038,000 in 2016 with a maturity date of July 23 of this year. Hugos opened in 2017 and closed two years later. Bailey said a potential buyer offered to acquire the building for more than the Baileys paid for, but the deal fell through. The Baileys are currently leasing the space to a tenant. The bank alleges that both David Bailey and Kara Bailey guaranteed payment of the loan and David Bailey further secured their promise of repayment with a commercial security agreement and a deed of trust to the bank. But the lawsuit says the Baileys failed to pay the loan by its July due date, defaulting on the agreement. Up until July 6, the Baileys were paying interest on the loan, according to the suit. The couple currently owes $796,786 on the loan. The lender said it notified the Baileys of their default, but the two had not made the payment. As a result of the default, interest rose from 9.25% to 14.25% on July 24, the lawsuit says. Midwest Regional Bank, based in Jefferson County, did not comment for this story. Earlier this year, David Bailey was sued by his Clayton landlord for failing to pay $192,862 in rent for his Rooster location at 178 Carondelet Plaza. And in January, a Central West End building owner sued Bailey for $121,792 over unpaid rent at 4590 Laclede Avenue. The Baileys planned to open another Rooster location there, but never did. Foodservice automation platform company Hyphen has closed a Series B funding round, raising $25m with participation from the CAVA Group to expedite Automated Makeline. The investment is set to accelerate the platform from factories to restaurants, enhancing production and deployment throughout the US. The Automated Makeline platform reduces waiting times and assists staff members so they can focus more on customer service. As part of its expansion strategy, Hyphen is collaborating with US-based Re:Build Manufacturing. Hyphen has chosen Ricoh USA as its field service partner to support the nationwide installation. This partnership leverages the network of more than 15,000 certified technicians, ensuring reliable field service support across the country. For the first time, CAVA has invested alongside current investors to bolster Hyphen's production increase in collaboration with Re:Build Manufacturing and to promote the expansion of its field service across the country. Hyphen CEO and cofounder Stephen Klein stated: "This new funding is a testament to the impact Hyphen's team and technology are having on restaurant operations. "We are galvanised by this investment to scale our manufacturing, support our growing customer base and continue innovating as we build the future of foodservice." In 2023, Chipotle Mexican Grill joined forces with Hyphen to test the automated digital makeline for the preparation of bowls and salads. In a separate announcement, CAVA Group has reported a revenue increase of 20.3% to $278.2m for the fiscal second quarter (Q2) ended 13 July 2025, compared to $231.4m in the same quarter of the previous year. This growth is attributed to the opening of 75 new CAVA restaurants that have surpassed performance expectations, and a 2.1% rise in same-restaurant sales, driven mainly by menu pricing and product mix. A slight dip in restaurant-level profit margin was observed from 26.5% to 26.3%, due to input costs and wage investments. CAVA Group posted a net income of $18.4m, or 6.5% of revenue, in comparison to the $19.7m registered in Q2 fiscal 2024. "Foodservice platform Hyphen gains $25m with CAVA participation" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. SEDALIA Top Missouri Republicans urged Gov. Mike Kehoe on Thursday to call a politically risky special session of the Legislature to redraw the states congressional boundaries. Gathered at the Missouri State Fair for the annual Governors Ham Breakfast, GOP officials said the state should wade into the high-profile national fight over redistricting to keep Republicans in control of the U.S. House after the 2026 mid-term elections. We need to move forward with redistricting. I am 100 percent in favor of it, state Treasurer Vivek Malek said. Missouri is among a handful of Republican-controlled states where President Donald Trump is asking leaders to deviate from the normal once-per-decade redistricting process to account for changes in population. With Republicans holding a razor-thin margin in the U.S. House, the aim is to draw more GOP-leaning districts to ensure Republicans stay in power after the 2026 mid-term elections. Im very supportive of what the governor and the General Assembly want to do. I encourage them to look at it, added U.S. Rep. Jason Smith, a Salem Republican who chairs the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. Im good either way as long as they treat my district well. The discussions in Missouri have centered on eliminating the Democratic-aligned 5th Congressional District in Kansas City held by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver to give Republicans an opportunity to control seven of the states eight districts. Supporters say the move would counter gerrymandering in Democratic states and keep House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana in control of the U.S. House, rather than allow Democrats to win and put U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York in charge of the chamber. Mike Johnson represents Missouri values much better than a liberal Democrat from New York, said House Majority Leader Alex Riley, a Springfield Republican. Kehoe, however, remained coy Thursday on whether and when he will ask state lawmakers to return. Next months annual veto session is the most likely time to launch the process, but the governor still is not saying whether that is the plan. You want to make sure what youre doing is in the right direction and you have as many people on board as possible. Im not saying were at that point or not at that point, said Kehoe, who is in his first year as Missouris chief executive. Its a big decision. Its not something I take lightly. He added, My personal preference is to keep Speaker Johnson in control in D.C. I think that would be the goal. A special session could be a repeat of 2022, when lawmakers sparred over a conservative plan to lock in a 7-1 GOP-leaning map. That effort failed amid concern that the maneuver could backfire and dilute strong Republican districts with enough Democratic voters to change party representation. House Speaker Jon Patterson, R-Lees Summit, said he believes Kehoe is waiting to see how redistricting efforts play out in other states before calling on Missouri lawmakers to take action. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, is expected to call lawmakers to Sacramento to redraw his states lines in response to an ongoing bid by Republicans in Texas to hand Trump five more GOP seats. I think there are national factors in play. Probably within a month well know more, Patterson said. Others said the governor merely is taking time to get all the pieces in place before making a special session official. Theres a lot of cats to herd when it comes to something like this, said Sen. Rick Brattin, R-Harrisonville. Despite the calls for a special session, the effort by Trump to keep the House under GOP control faces some blowback. Why dont we just do an 8-0 map? joked Sen. Lincoln Hough, a Springfield Republican who chairs the Senate Appropriations Committee. I dont think its a good precedent to set. I think were just opening it up to happen more in the future. Patterson said Kehoe may be treading carefully because redistricting could sow more dysfunction in the Missouri Senate where filibusters commonly are used by Democrats in the minority to slow down action and force negotiation. Thats always a consideration, Patterson said. State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick, a Republican who formerly served as treasurer and as a member of the Missouri House, said it would be better if Missouri and other states only redistricted every 10 years. But were in a weird situation here, so Im supportive of whatever Governor Kehoe decides, Fitzpatrick said. Its unfortunate were going to do a 7-1 map. We did it the right way in 2022. Unfortunately, other states didnt do it right. If they are not going to play fair, I guess its just time we dont either, said Rep. Jim Murphy, a south St. Louis County Republican. Murphy was among those who are not worried about Senate Democrats sabotaging next years legislative session as revenge for redistricting. In the end, Democrats have things they want too, he said. They want a budget that has things that are good for their constituents. The guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins, seen here in the Philippine Sea on April 24, 2025, conducted a freedom-of-navigation operation near the contested Scarborough Shoal on Aug. 14, 2025. (Kira Ducato/U.S. Marine Corps) YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan The U.S. 7th Fleet rejected as false a claim by China this week that its forces drove a U.S. destroyer away from a contested atoll in the South China Sea. Chinas Southern Theater Command on Wednesday said it ordered its forces to track, monitor, warn and expel the guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins from waters near Scarborough Shoal, a feature claimed by China, Taiwan and the Philippines. The US militarys actions seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security, seriously undermined peace and stability in the South China Sea, and violated international law and basic norms governing international relations, wrote spokesman Senior Capt. He Tiecheng on the commands Weibo social media page. The 7th Fleet, based at Yokosuka Naval Base, said the Higgins conducted a freedom of navigation operation near the shoal and left the area on its own accord. Fleet spokeswoman Lt. Sarah Merrill called Beijings claim false and said the Higgins operated within international legal standards, she told Stars and Stripes by email Thursday. Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela posted a surveillance photo of the USS Cincinnati in the South China Sea, Aug. 13, 2025. (Jay Tarriela via X) The United States is defending its right to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, as USS Higgins did here, Merrill wrote. Nothing China says otherwise will deter us. The Higgins went within 13 miles of the shoal, close to the edge of territorial waters, she said. Scarborough Shoal, known in China as Huangyan Island, is claimed by China, Taiwan and the Philippines. Monday, a Chinese warship collided with a Chinese coast guard vessel in pursuit of Philippine coast guard and fishing vessels in the same area, The Associated Press reported Tuesday. The littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati and the Higgins were briefly deployed Wednesday to Scarborough Shoal, according to a post that day on social media platform X by Philippine coast guard Commodore Jay Tarriela. Tarriela cited U.S. officials and a Philippine surveillance flight. Four Chinese coast guard ships and six Chinese maritime militia boats were also spotted near the shoal, according to Tarriela. Another Chinese vessel, a navy frigate, shadowed the Higgins and Cincinnati during the operation, he said. Philippine Coast Guard Commodore Jay Tarriela posted a surveillance photo of the USS Higgins in the South China Sea, Aug. 13, 2025. (Jay Tarriela via X) The U.S. regularly conducts freedom of navigation patrols in the South China Sea, where several countries ringing the sea have overlapping claims to maritime features. The patrols are typically a challenge to what the U.S. Navy describes as unlawful restrictions on innocent passage. China and Taiwan each purport to require, in violation of international law, either permission or advance notification before a military vessel or warship engages in innocent passage through their territorial sea, Merrill wrote. Under the 1982 U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea, any ship is allowed to pass through territorial waters if its actions are not prejudicial to the peace, good order or security of the country in question. The U.S. often cites the convention as the legal basis for its actions in the South China Sea, but it is one of the few U.N. member states that has not ratified it. A sailor assigned to the USS Princeton reunites with his spouse after the ships return to its homeport of San Diego on Aug. 13, 2025. (Brandon Roberson/U.S. Navy) More than 700 sailors returned to San Diego this week after a nine-month deployment that took them far from home and close to the hot spots in the Middle East. The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett, part of the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group, were greeted Wednesday by hundreds of friends and family members. During the deployment, Princeton and Sterett sailed into the U.S. 3rd, 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation, including time in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. The Princeton, which departed San Diego on Nov. 18, served as the air defense coordinator for Carrier Strike Group 1. Im incredibly proud of the work Princetons sailors did during this deployment, Capt. John Loomis, Princetons commanding officer, said in a service news release. Their hard work allowed this ship, the most lethal warship in the world, to provide integrated air defense and strike capability to Carrier Strike Group 1. This was one of the final deployments for the 36-year-old guided-missile cruiser, which the Navy says is likely to be decommissioned in the next two to three years. The Sterett, which left San Diego on Nov. 17, conducted various independent missions, including aiding the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. We navigated the mission set with bravery, skill and a lot of tenacity, Cmdr. Kurt Albaugh, the Steretts commanding officer, said in a service news release. As long as you have a good team that sticks together, like what we have on the Sterett, you can adapt to a lot of things that you didnt anticipate beforehand. The USS Carl Vinson left Hawaii last week and is scheduled to arrive at Naval Station North Island on Friday. Contributing: The San Diego Union-Tribune The exterior of the Leica World complex in Wetzlar, Germany, showing the building housing the Ernst Leitz Museum. The balcony is shaped like a camera viewfinder. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) As I drove up to the Ernst Leitz Museum, my shutterbug friend pointed up at the building and said, Oh, its shaped like a camera! Look, thats the viewfinder! As I rounded the building to park, she added, And thats the lens! I smugly knew that my choice of Wetzlar, the birthplace of the famous Leica handcrafted camera, was the perfect tour stop for her first trip to Germany. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the debut of the Leica I, the first mass-produced 35 mm camera. Centenary events are being held worldwide from Milan to Tokyo to Dubai. The museum, about an hours drive north of Frankfurt, is part of the Leica World at Leitz Park industrial park, which includes the company headquarters, the Ernst Leitz Hotel, Cafe Leitz, a nature trail and more. While planning our trip, I decided we needed a more curated museum experience than the regular entry fee of 11 euros provides. For 149 euros, we did the Max: A Day at Leica World experience. That eye-watering price included a VIP tour for two in English, a reservation for coffee and cake at Cafe Leitz and most importantly a Leica camera rental of our choice. After handing each of us a red-dot Leica pin, our guide explained that Leica is a portmanteau of company founder Leitzs name and the word camera. Then we crossed the street to the production and administration building, which is shaped like a roll of film. This side of the complex includes the Leica Galerie Wetzlar. While interesting, that side of the Leitz Park is more for Leica enthusiasts, people who wouldnt mind spending several months of mortgage payments on a camera. The Leica camera company headquarters in Wetzlar, Germany. The building contains the Leica Galerie Wetzlar art gallery, the company's production line and a canteen. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) The VIP tour of the Leica Welt complex in Wetzlar, Germany, includes a reservation for coffee and cake at Cafe Leitz, named in honor of company founder Ernst Leitz. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) I found what was inside the museum far more accessible. While the ground floor is dedicated to a large exhibition of award-winning photography at the time of our visit, it was street photography it gets more fun and interactive upstairs. First, though, you need to download the Leica app. There you can learn more about the industrial park, but most importantly create and access your personal image gallery. Then a series of glass placards teaches photography basics such as the golden ratio, rule of thirds, focal length, exposure and more, a perfect primer for me as a journalist. It turns out the camera lens we saw from the parking lot has an aperture that slowly opens and closes. The first interactive exhibit in the Ernst Leitz Museum teaches visitors some of the basic concepts of photography and has an aperture, right, that opens and closes to demonstrate focal point and light exposure. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) The stairs leading up to the second floor of the Ernst Leitz Museum in Wetzlar, Germany. Leitz founded the world-renowned Leica camera company. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) Our guide walked us through the various Leica photo stations. They were self-explanatory, with instructions that toggled easily between German and English. Then we rushed to end the tour so we could make our reserved time slot at the cafe. After our refreshments, it was finally time to visit the Leica store for our rental. My friend really wanted to try her hand at black-and-white photography, so we picked up the M-11 Monochrom. The sales staff was great and showed how to use the rangefinder to manually focus. I was a bit annoyed that we were asked if wed brought an SD card, as apparently that was the only way to take our photos home. Luckily, I had one in my hobbyist camera. At the salespersons suggestion we headed to the nature trail. There, we attempted to re-create Thomas Hoepkers 1966 photo of Muhammad Ali punching toward the camera. Its part of the 36 Aus 100 permanent exhibition in the Leica Galerie Wetzlar. The exhibition consists of a selection of 36 photos from the past 100 years that the company says have made photographic history and helped establish the myth of the Leica brand. Despite being a southpaw, I took a few right jabs at the camera. But I think you can see the fear in my eyes of getting too close to something that retails for more than $10,000. Chrissy Yates reenacts Thomas Hoepkers famous 1966 photo of Muhammad Ali punching at the camera during a May visit to the Ernst Leitz Museum in Wetzlar, Germany. (Elizabeth Enockson/Special to Stars and Stripes) Then we switched sides and I took blurry photos of her as I struggled to line up the image in the rangefinder. Sadly, my best shots were of my feet and a stack of logs. But in spite of the results, I still had a lot of fun in the attempt. The exterior of the Leica headquarters building in Wetzlar, Germany, shot using a Leica M11 Monochrom on May 15, 2025. (Elizabeth Enockson/Special to Stars and Stripes) A visitor to the Ernst Leitz Museum in Wetzlar, Germany, previews a closeup of dandelion seed heads on the monitor of a Leica M11 Monochrom camera rented during a tour. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) The Leica M11 Monochrom sits next to a Leica M11-D camera at the Leica Store Wetzlar. Visitors to the company's complex in Wetzlar, Germany, can pick from among three tour packages that include a one-hour rental of a Leica camera model of their choice. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) The lens sculpture in the parking lot of the museum, shot using a Leica M11 Monochrom on May 15, 2025. (Elizabeth Enockson/Special to Stars and Stripes) After returning the camera, we revisited the museums various photo stations to create self-portraits. My favorite station was a photo booth-style room with a one-way mirror and a camera behind it surrounded by lights. Museum visitors sit at the bench and use a panel of switches on the side to play with the brightness, direction, amount and source of the light. Yet another room lets visitors turn on giant fans and adjust the airflow speed and direction to get a perfect windblown look for an Instagram profile. There is also a digital darkroom where visitors can take one of the photos from their gallery and go through the steps of analog film development. A photo station at the Ernst Leitz Museum lets visitors adjust various light settings for self-portraits. (Elizabeth Enockson/Special to Stars and Stripes) The bottom floor of the Ernst Leitz Museum as seen on May 15, 2025, during an exhibition on street photography. (Chrissy Yates/Stars and Stripes) A QR code at each station transfers images to the Leica app, and visitors have 14 days to download them before theyre deleted from the virtual gallery. No modern museum experience is complete without a visit to the gift shop, which you must enter to print out your free photo souvenir. The shop offers books on photography, posters of Leica cameras and my favorite memento, a 3D-puzzle Leica I. At 80 euros, its the only Leica Ill be able to afford for now. Leica World Leica HQ and Ernst Leitz Museum Address: Am Leitz-Park 6, Wetzlar, Germany Cost: HQ entry is free; museum entry is 11 euros for adults, free for children 8 and younger, 24 euros for families. Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Cafe Leitz, Tuesday-Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; canteen, Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-10 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Information: leicawelt.com/en Frontera Energy Corp. announced a significant net loss in the second quarter of 2025, primarily due to a substantial impairment charge related to a dispute with the government of Guyana. According to a press release, the company reported a net loss of $455.2 million, or $5.89 per share, for the quarter ending June 30. This contrasts sharply with a net income of $27.5 million in the first quarter of 2025 and a net loss of $2.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. The loss was attributed to a $432.2 million non-cash impairment charge on the Corentyne block, an exploration asset located offshore Guyana. The impairment follows a 90-day consultation and negotiation period with the government of Guyana that failed to resolve a licensing dispute. The government claims the joint venture's license for the block expired on June 28, 2024, a claim the company's joint venture rejects. "The Joint Venture remains firmly of the view that its interests in, and the license for, the Corentyne block remain in place and in good standing and that the Petroleum Agreement has not been terminated," the company stated in the release. It added that it is prepared to assert its legal and contractual rights. The company's operational results, however, showed growth. Total production averaged 41,055 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), a 1% increase from the prior quarter and a 3% increase from the second quarter of 2024. This growth was driven by increased processing capacity and successful well interventions in Colombia, along with new natural gas volumes from the VIM-1 block. Frontera also saw a decrease in its production costs by 10.3% quarter-over-quarter. Frontera is adjusting its 2025 production guidance to 39,500 to 41,000 boe/d after divesting its non-core Perico and Espejo fields in Ecuador. The company also announced a downward revision of its capital expenditures guidance by approximately $20 million, citing a disciplined approach to spending. Frontera has prioritized returning capital to investors, completing a substantial issuer bid of CAD 91 million and a tender offer of $80 million for its senior unsecured notes due in 2028. Over the past twelve months, the company has returned more than $144 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. "Frontera's second quarter financial and operating results demonstrate the decisive steps we are taking to deliver stakeholder value, maintain financial and operational flexibility, and reduce leverage over the long-term," said Orlando Cabrales, chief executive officer of Frontera. The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) For those riding the rails into Tokyo from Camp Zama or Naval Air Facility Atsugi, the Odakyu Line is a familiar lifeline to the capital city. Disembark at Kyodo Station in Setagaya, and within minutes on foot youll arrive at Two Brits Burger Bar, an eclectic and cozy establishment thats become a favorite among locals and expats in search of something hearty and familiar. The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. Weathered typewriters and antique cameras compete for space with Union Jack flags and vinyl records, creating a dining area that feels like the attic of a well-traveled friend. Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo boasts a surprisingly deep bench when it comes to beverages. Choose from dozens of craft beers, from Japanese microbrews to European imports, and wine list better than it needs to be. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Start with the Triple Cheeseburger for 2,800 yen, or about $18.95. Its as excessive and satisfying as it sounds three 100% beef patties layered with molten cheese, pickles and the house sauce, stacked high on a buttery bun. Theres no lettuce or tomato to distract you when devouring this pure expression of burger maximalism. For something local with a twist, the Teriyaki Burger layers a sweet-savory glaze over a pair of perfectly grilled patties crowned with a fried egg. It balances Japanese flavor with American heft for 1,950 yen. The Teriyaki Burger from Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo balances Japanese flavor with American heft. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) The Fried Chicken Burger offers a crispy, juicy beef alternative at 1,600 yen. This thick slab of boneless, golden-fried chicken is spiked with barbecue sauce and tucked into a soft bun with lettuce and tomato. Then theres the Fish and Chips for 1,700 yen. Its a standout for Tokyo flaky, tender, flavorful white fish thats not over-battered. The chips are chunky and well-seasoned and served with a side of house tartar sauce. The Fish and Chips from Two Brits Burger Bar is standout for Tokyo flaky, tender, flavorful white fish thats not overbattered. The chips are chunky and well-seasoned and served with a side of house tartar sauce. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) The Triple Cheeseburger from Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo is as excessive and satisfying as it sounds. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Source Beyond these standouts, the menu includes several rotating specials. To drink, theres a surprisingly deep bench. Choose from dozens of craft beers, from Japanese microbrews to European imports, and a wine list better than it needs to be. Service is warm and unrushed. Whether youre on a day off from work or just passing through on your way to central Tokyo, Two Brits makes for a casual, satisfying stop and one of the few places where fish and chips, teriyaki burgers and reggae on vinyl feel like natural companions. The name may suggest a pair of British proprietors, but Two Brits Burger Bar in Tokyo is owned and operated by a genial Italian with a clear fondness for English pub fare and vintage Americana. (Aaron Kidd/Stars and Stripes) Two Brits Burger Bar Location: 1-21-22 Kyodo, Setagaya, Tokyo Hours: Open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, expect Mondays. Closing time is 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Dress: Casual Directions: A short walk from Kyodo Station on the Odakyu Line. Information: 03-6413-5206; @twobritsburgerbar on Instagram Texas National Guard troops use boats to search for survivors in Kerr County following floods that began in the region on July 4, 2025. (Texas National Guard) As a retired Army major general, Ive spent my life focused on one mission: keeping America safe. Thats why I am raising the alarm to my fellow veterans about a new threat not from a hostile foreign power, but from inside our own government. The Trump administrations Environmental Protection Agency has launched an effort to repeal the Endangerment Finding the bedrock scientific and legal determination that greenhouse gases endanger public health and welfare. This is more than bureaucratic tinkering. Its an all-out assault on the legal framework that has allowed the U.S. government to confront the climate crisis and its ripple effects on national security. The Endangerment Finding, issued in 2009, was not a political opinion. It was the product of rigorous scientific consensus on the threat of climate change. It enabled the federal government to regulate greenhouse gas pollution under the Clean Air Act. Now, under the banner of unleashing American energy, this administration wants to pretend the danger doesnt exist. Thats not just anti-science its anti-security. What would be ironic if it wasnt so dangerous is the fact that this proposal could actually curtail energy security and independence. Shutting the door on clean solutions means higher energy prices and more dependence on fossil fuels. One climate pollutant, methane, is also the primary ingredient of natural gas. In 2023, oil and gas companies vented, flared, or leaked about $3.5 billion worth of natural gas enough natural gas to meet the residential gas needs (heating and cooking) of 19 million homes. That sounds more like wasting American energy instead of unleashing it and methane is responsible for about a third of the climate-warming impacts we are already experiencing. Climate change is a threat multiplier. Thats not just my opinion its the stated position of the Department of Defense, going back decades. Rising sea levels threaten U.S. naval bases. Extreme weather strains National Guard deployments. Drought and displacement fuel global instability and terrorism. When the climate shifts, so do conflict zones and no one knows this better than American service members as we are sent to the front lines of chaos. Undermining our ability to respond to climate change puts our troops, our bases, and our country at greater risk. To repeal the Endangerment Finding, the EPA would need to disprove a mountain of scientific evidence, override Massachusetts v. EPA a U.S. Supreme Court decision and argue, somehow, that climate pollution is no longer a danger. That argument shouldnt hold up in court. But the damage done while they try could be catastrophic. Weve seen what happens when leaders put politics before facts. From Iraq to Afghanistan to our own Capitol on Jan. 6, ignoring expert warnings leads to disaster. Repealing the Endangerment Finding would be another grave warning ignored. Veterans swear an oath to defend this country against all enemies, foreign and domestic. That includes threats to our air, our water and our ability to respond to a rapidly changing world. Climate change is real. It is dangerous. And dismantling the very tools we use to fight it weakens our country. If the EPA succeeds in this repeal, essential safeguards will be undermined, and we will lose hard-won ground in the urgent fight to defend the American people against the worst impacts of climate change. I invite fellow veterans to join me in submitting public comments to stand against this new threat. Americas security depends on it. Paul Eaton, a retired U.S. Army major general, is a senior adviser to Vet Voice Foundation. He served more than 30 years, including combat and post-combat assignments in Iraq, Bosnia and Somalia. He was assigned to Iraq from 2003 to 2004 as commanding general of the Coalition Military Assistance Training Team, where he designed, manned, trained and equipped the Iraqi armed forces for the Iraqi Ministry of Defense and the security forces for the Interior Ministry. Prior to that assignment, he commanded the Armys Infantry Center and was Chief of Infantry for the Army. Nesha Havili and her son Liam at the photo booth during a homeschool back-to-school event at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, Aug. 9, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea With a new school year only days away, about 30 homeschooled children took over a corner of the massive Collier Community Fitness Center here recently for their own back-to-school event. They wielded water toys, stood still for face painting and drew in chalk while their parents chatted and dined on a potluck lunch at the Aug. 9 get-together. I feel like homeschoolers and their families and the work that the kids do and the moms do, they deserve to be celebrated just as much as public-school kids, said Serena Hanlon, a homeschooling mother of three. Hanlon said she organized the event for the Camp Humphreys Christian Homeschool Co-op, which sponsored the event for all homeschool families at Humphreys. Homeschooling is a well-established practice in the U.S. military, even though the Defense Department schools for military families were rated higher than average last year on the National Assessment of Educational Progress. About 12% of U.S. military families homeschool their children, twice the 6% rate among the U.S. civilian population, according to a 2023-2024 study by the Johns Hopkins University School of Education. Why military families choose to homeschool their children is not well understood, according to the Johns Hopkins survey, but parents at the Humphreys event voiced a few reasons of their own. The main reason I homeschool is just for more time with the kids, said Nesha Havili at the event. Havili homeschools her four children. Neither she nor Hanlon are members of the Christian Homeschool Co-op, they said. The opportunity to maintain their own academic records is a plus for military families that change duty stations frequently, along with setting their own schedules, spending more time with their children and, for some, including religious instruction in their curriculum, according to Hanlon. In May, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered a review across all services of the support provided by the DOD to homeschooling families, as well as best practices, including the feasibility of providing facilities or access to other resources for those students, according to the order. Homeschooling offers an individualized approach for students and highlights the significant role parents play in the educational process, the order states. Hegseths order did not set a deadline for the review. Hanlon also runs several Facebook groups in support of homeschooling families, including Wild and Blooming Camp Humphreys Co-Op, which meets biweekly for nature lessons outside Humphreys and other events, and Where the Wild Readers Are, a childrens book club. Hanlon said she and her husband, Capt. Hunter Hanlon of the 2nd Infantry Division, once they return to the U.S. would like to organize a group to advocate for homeschooling military families. I want to make it bigger than what it is, and just more official and follow what stateside guidelines are, she said. I love doing this so much and its giving me practice for when I want to do something bigger. A South Korean soldier inspects loudspeaker equipment at an unspecified location near the Demilitarized Zone in South Korea, June 9, 2024. (South Korea Army) CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea The influential sister of North Koreas leader on Thursday denied as a red herring a claim that her country had dismantled some of the propaganda loudspeakers along its border with South Korea, according to state media. Kim Yo Jong labeled as unfounded unilateral supposition the recent report by South Koreas military that North Korea removed some of its loudspeakers along the Demilitarized Zone, according to the Korean Central News Agency. Kim is North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns sister and a member of North Koreas ruling council, the State Affairs Commission. South Korea is misleading the public by saying that we have removed the loudspeakers, she said, according to KCNA. We have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them. South Koreas military reported Aug. 9 that it detected North Korean forces dismantling their loudspeakers along the 160-mile DMZ. Five days earlier, the Souths military had begun removing loudspeakers on its side of the border in hopes of de-escalating tensions between their countries. South Korea silenced its loudspeakers on June 11; the North also ceased broadcasting later that day. South Korean army Col. Lee Sung Joon, the Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesman, declined to go into detail at a news conference Thursday but said the military has explained the facts of what we observed. It is difficult to explain their intentions here, he said of Kim Yo Jongs latest statement. North Korea has repeatedly made false claims. South Korean President Lee Jae-myung at a Cabinet meeting Tuesday reiterated the North was dismantling some of its loudspeakers and said he hoped it was the first step to reopen dialogue and communication between the two Koreas. Since the 1950-53 Korean War, North and South Korea have aimed propaganda loudspeakers at each other to demoralize opposing forces stationed at the DMZ. North Koreas loudspeakers typically broadcasted political monologues criticizing the South and the United States; the Souths broadcasts include pop music, weather reports and recent news. The lack of direct communication between Pyongyang and Seoul could be contributing to the opposing claims, said Lim Jae-Cheon, a Korea University diplomacy studies professor, by phone Thursday. It seems that South Korea may be over-interpreting even small movements by the North, he said. On the other hand, North Korea appears to make decisions based on its own judgement, such as halting loudspeaker broadcasts. Japan coast guard vessel PS Mizuki is docked at Naha New Port, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 8, 2025. (Brian McElhiney/Stars and Stripes) ABOARD THE PS MIZUKI, Okinawa China and Japan remain locked in a game of cat-and-mouse near the Senkaku Islands, with China this year setting another record for the number of consecutive days its vessels have sailed near the disputed islets in the East China Sea. As of Thursday, Chinese vessels have been spotted on 269 consecutive days within the Senkakus contiguous zone, a 24-mile-wide band beyond the 12-mile territorial limit, a coast guard spokesman said by phone that day. The previous record was 215 days between Dec. 22, 2023, and July 23, 2024. The chain of five islets and three rocky protrusions are administered by Japan but also claimed by China and Taiwan. They are a flashpoint between Japan and China. Chinese vessels have entered the territorial limit 20 times since Jan. 1, prompting Japans coast guard to send its own vessels to meet them, the spokesman said. Chinas vessels have become more aggressive, but Japans coast guard has not escalated its approach to deterring vessels that enter its territorial waters, according to Naha Coast Guard Office director Momotoshi Saisho. During an Aug. 8 media tour aboard the PS Mizuki at Naha New Port, Saisho touched on the coast guard response to those incursions. The longest stay inside territorial waters around the Senkakus occurred in March when a Chinese coast guard vessel lingered for 92 hours and eight minutes, according to a news release at the time. An electronic signboard used to flash warning messages at vessels sailing near Japan's territory hang from the starboard side of the coast guard vessel PS Mizuki, at Naha New Port, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 8, 2025. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes) On May 3, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force scrambled fighters in response to a helicopter launched from a Chinese coast guard vessel inside the Senkakus territorial limit, according to a Ministry of Defense news release at the time. The helicopter flight lasted about 15 minutes, the ministry said. Since 2015, some Chinese coast guard ships approaching the Senkakus are armed with deck-mounted machine guns, according to the Ministry of Defense 2025 white paper. The Mizuki is armed with a 20 mm machine gun, Saisho said. However, the coast guard does not fire at intruding vessels, the spokesman said Thursday. The Mizuki, about 150 feet long and weighing 195 tons, was one of two coast guard patrol vessels rammed by a Chinese fishing boat in the Senkaku territorial waters in September 2010. Japan accused the fishermen of intentionally causing the collision. The Mizuki is usually dispatched to meet Chinese fishing vessels, Saisho said. The coast guard will always dispatch a larger number of ships than the intruding force. The vessels that are dispatched to the Senkakus and other intrusion cases might be selected depending on the size and number of the ships of the opponent, he said. Japans coast guard vessels will flash messages in Chinese, English, Korean, Russian or other languages on a large electronic signboards, which hang on both sides of the Mizuki. In Hokkaido you might need Russian; around Kyushu it might be Korean, Saisho said. In Okinawa, we usually first warn in English and then in Chinese, depending on the boat that is intruding. Messages may begin with, Immediately leave Japans territorial waters, and progress in urgency to, We will sail alongside you and board your vessel, or, We will start firing water cannons, according to information posted in the ships control room. However, the coast guard has never fired warning shots or shot water cannons at Chinese vessels around the Senkakus, the spokesman said Thursday. Some Japanese government officials may speak to the press only on condition of anonymity. A U.S. Marine Air Defense Integrated System, or MADIS, fires at a drone during a live-fire joint Philippines-U.S. military exercise at the Philippine Navy training camp in San Antonio, Zambales province, northern Philippines Sunday, April 27, 2025. (Aaron Favila/AP) MANILA, Philippines The United States is discussing the possible deployment of more missile launchers to the Philippines to strengthen deterrence against aggression in the disputed South China Sea and other Asian security hotspots, but no final decision has been reached by both sides, Manilas ambassador to Washington said Thursday. The U.S. military delivered a mid-range missile system called the Typhon, a land-based weapon that can fire the Standard Missile-6 and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile, to the northern Philippines as part of joint combat exercises in April last year. That was followed by the transport by the U.S. military of an anti-ship missile launcher in April this year to the northernmost Philippine province of Batanes, just a sea border away from Taiwan. Beijing strongly protested the installation of the U.S. missile systems, saying they were aimed at containing Chinas rise and warning that these would threaten regional stability. China has asked the Philippines to withdraw the missile launchers from its territory, but officials led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had rejected the demand. Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said without elaborating that the possible deployment by the U.S. of more Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System or NMESIS missile launchers was being discussed for consideration by both sides. The anti-ship missile systems could be installed along Philippine coastal regions facing the South China Sea and outlying regions to beef up deterrence against aggression, he said. This is part of the strong U.S. and Philippines defense partnership, Romualdez told the Associated Press. Romualdez spoke on the sidelines of a trade and investment conference in Manila, where he and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro encouraged major U.S. companies to invest in a wide array of industries from energy and telecommunications to infrastructure and navy shipbuilding in the Philippines, the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. When U.S. companies invest here, its not just about returns on capital its about returns on alliance, Romualdez told U.S. business executives at the conference. A stronger Philippine economy means a more capable and reliable defense partner for the United States. At a time when America is diversifying supply chains and rethinking global strategy, we are a natural choice and a strategic necessity, Romualdez said. I ask you to carry this message to the Trump administration: `Every U.S. dollar invested in the Philippines strengthens Americas position in the Indo-Pacific. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth flew to Manila in March in his first visit to Asia and said the Trump administration would work with allies to ramp up deterrence against threats across the world, including Chinas increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea. The U.S. was not gearing up for war, Hegseth said then, but underscored that peace would be won through strength. China claims virtually the entire South China Sea. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims to the resource-rich and busy waters, but confrontations have spiked between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and naval forces in recent years. On Wednesday, the U.S. briefly deployed two warships in what it called a freedom of navigation operation off the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea where two Chinese navy and coast guard ships collided earlier in the week while trying to drive away a smaller Philippine coast guard vessel. The high-seas accident sparked alarm among Asian and Western countries. Freedom of navigation is essential for the trillions of dollars worth of commerce that passes through these waters, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, told reporters on the sidelines of the Manila investment conference. Its about commerce. Its about lives and livelihoods. In this handout photo released by the Turkish Foreign Ministry press service, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, left, sits with Syria's interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, during their meeting in Damascus, Syria, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (Turkish Foreign Ministry via AP) ANKARA, Turkey Turkey will provide weapons, military equipment, and logistical support to Syria under a newly signed defense cooperation agreement, Turkish Defense Ministry officials said Thursday. The announcement came a day after Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler and Syrias Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on military training and consultancy, reinforcing Turkeys support to Syrias interim government. Syria last month requested Turkeys support to strengthen its defense capabilities following sectarian violence in the country that also drew intervention by Israel. Under the agreement, Turkey would share its knowledge and experience and supply military equipment, weapons systems and logistical materials to help strengthen the countrys capabilities, Turkish Defense Ministry officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to be quoted by name. Syrias newly formed interim government has faced mounting challenges in restoring order and addressing the deep scars left by nearly 14 years of civil conflict, following the ouster of former President Bashar Assad by Islamist-led rebel forces in December. Most recently, hundreds were killed in clashes in the southern province of Sweida between government forces and local Bedouin tribesmen on one side and fighters from the Druze minority on the other. Turkey has been supportive of Syrias new administration, which is formed largely by rebels that Ankara backed during the civil war. Also Wednesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned Israel and Kurdish fighters to cease actions threatening Syrias stability, accusing them of undermining the countrys efforts to reestablish itself after more than a decade of civil war. Speaking during a joint news conference Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in Ankara, Fidan accused the U.S.-allied and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, of stalling the implementation of an agreement that was reached in March to merge with the Syrian army. Last week, representatives of Syrias various ethnic and religious groups held a conference in the northeastern Syrian city of Hassakeh which is under the SDFs control and called for the formation of a decentralized state and the drafting of a new constitution that guarantees religious, cultural and ethnic pluralism. The Syrian government criticized the meeting, and alleged that among the attendees were some with secessionist ambitions. It said that as a result it long longer intends to join planned talks with the SDF in Paris that had been agreed upon in late July. No date had yet been set for the Paris talks. (Tribune News Service) A Marine recruit at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island was injured after being shot in the leg during a marksmanship training exercise on the firing range. The recruit, assigned to a Recruit Training Regiment, was airlifted from the bases location in Port Royal to a Savannah hospital. Beyond those details, little else is known about this incident including specifics of how the shooting occurred, his or her medical status, the name or age of the victim or the hometown. It is standard operating procedure for the Marines to delay the release of any information until hours after the family has been notified. Immediate medical attention was provided on site and the recruit was stabilized and then airlifted to Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah for further treatment. It is under investigation and would be premature to speculate on any details, said Chief Warrant Officer Bobby Yarbrough, a Recruit Depot spokesman. The Marines said they are committed to a thorough and transparent review of the incident. About 16,000 enlisted recruits a year train to be Marines at the 8,000-acre island base in Port Royal, one of two bases in the country where recruits train to become Marines. The other is at Marine Corps Base Pendleton near San Diego. In phase two of recruit training, recruits receive formal instruction and develop skills necessary to maintain and accurately fire the M16-A4 on four live-fire rifle ranges, according to the Marines. 2025 The Island Packet (Hilton Head, S.C.). Visit www.islandpacket.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Ishwanzya Rivers, 46, has been accused of stealing funds she was managing for U.S. military veterans, including at least $133,000 from one elderly, terminally ill resident of a VA hospital in Cincinnati, according to the Justice Department. (Flickr/Department of Veterans Affairs) A Cincinnati woman has been arrested on allegations of stealing money that she managed for U.S. military veterans, the Justice Department said. Ishwanzya Rivers, 46, is accused of stealing a total of $148,000 from four elderly or ill veterans, federal officials said in a statement Wednesday. She used the funds to subsidize shopping, restaurant visits and trips to Montego Bay, London and the Maldives, among other locations, the statement said. Rivers stole at least $133,000 from one elderly, terminally ill veteran who lived at the VA hospital in Cincinnati, the DOJ said, spending the victims money at least 45 times from June 2021 through November 2022. She stole smaller sums from three other elderly or sick veterans, the Justice Department alleged. Rivers has been charged with misappropriating funds as a fiduciary and making false statements. Both are federal crimes that can be punished by up to five years in prison. China launches new group of internet satellites Xinhua) 08:14, August 14, 2025 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) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) On August 13, 2025 the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone donated equipments to the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) to support SLP's Safe City project. The handover ceremony was attended by Minister Counsellor Zhang Dianbin of the Embassy, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Mr. William Fayia Sellu, Assistant Inspector General Dr. Martin Senesie and others. Minister Counsellor Zhang noted that this donation is a concrete measure to implement the Global Security Initiative (GSI) and reflects the shared commitment of China and Sierra Leone for public safety and the well-being of the people. IGP Sellu expressed sincere gratitude for Chinas long-standing support to Sierra Leone in crime prevention and control, noting that China has always lent a helping hand when Sierra Leone was in need, fully demonstrating the strong foundation of the traditional friendship between the two countries. The donated items, including cameras, monitors and laptops, will benefit major cities including Makeni, Kenema and Port Loko. With strong share price gains and significant hedge fund interest, Genesis Energy, L.P. (NYSE:GEL) secures a spot on our list of the 13 Hot Oil Stocks to Buy Now. Genesis Energy, L.P. (GEL) Reports Q2 2025 Results; Wells Fargo and RBC Capital Maintain Buy Rating An oil tanker heading out to sea, a symbol of the company's processes and operations. On July 31, 2025, Genesis Energy, L.P. (NYSE:GEL) reported its results for Q2 2025. The company recorded a YoY improvement in its net loss from $8.7 million to $0.4 million, while delivering $122.9 million in adjusted EBITDA. The companys improved operations were led by the successful start-up of the Shenandoah production facility. The facility is now delivering oil to the new SYNC and expanded CHOPS pipelines. Ramp-up to 90-100 kbd is expected in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, Salamanca is well-positioned to record its first oil by Q3-end. The company expects full-year adjusted EBITDA at the low end of its $545-$575 million guidance, despite commissioning delays. Following the earnings release, Wells Fargo maintained its Buy rating on Genesis Energy, L.P. (NYSE:GEL) on August 1, 2025, with a $19 price target. On the same day, RBC Capital also maintained its Buy rating with a $20 target. Both analysts maintain a bullish stance due to the strong potential of Shenandoah and Salamanca, alongside improving offshore margins and expected debt reduction by the end of 2025. Genesis Energy, L.P. (NYSE:GEL), headquartered in Houston, Texas, provides offshore pipeline transportation, marine transportation, and onshore services. It is included in our list of the hot stocks to buy. While we acknowledge the potential of GEL 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: 10 Best AI Stocks to Buy Under $3 and Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. The two pensioners - both aged in their 80s - were not the actual target of the incident A man is vehemently protesting his innocence in respect of an alleged arson attack which caused 550,000 in damage and totally destroyed the home of two Cork pensioners. Paul McCarthy of Dowth Avenue, Cabra, Dublin, appeared before Cork District Court on a charge of arson at Fernbrook, Ballincrokig, in Co Cork, on April 24 last. The court previously heard that Mr McCarthy (37) was allegedly one of three men who drove from Dublin to Cork to set fire to a house. It was also previously alleged that the incident was video-recorded by one of the men. The two pensioners - both aged in their 80s - were not the actual target of the incident. Sgt John Kelleher told Judge John King that 550,000 worth of damage was caused to the property involved by the blaze. He stated this led to the complete destruction of the house. Sgt Kelleher said that Mr McCarthy first appeared before the court on May 7 last in connection with his alleged role in the incident. He has been remanded in custody since. Sgt Kelleher said that forensic results are awaited in the case following the search of two properties. Gardai applied for a four-week remand in custody in the case. Defence counsel Nicholas Hall BL said that his client will be insisting that he is entirely innocent of the crime. He stated that the searches were carried out early on and asked that the matter be expedited. Judge King remanded Mr McCarthy in ongoing custody until August 20 next for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The accused will appear by video link again on that date. Garda Brian Murphy previously objected to bail when the matter first came before Cork District Court. He said that it was alleged that at 9pm on April 24 last a car arrived at the house in Ballincollig and three people emerged from the vehicle. "Two entered the curtilage of the property and ignited two glass petrol bombs with a blowtorch. They smashed a bedroom window and threw in these petrol bombs, he said. The third person believed to be Paul McCarthy stands close to the vehicle and allegedly films the incident on his mobile phone. The Skoda Octavia enters the Plaza filling station in Portlaoise just before midnight and Paul McCarthy is identified, filling the car with 30 diesel and leaving without paying. The vehicle was also detected passing the Watergrasshill toll plaza at 8.30pm that evening. Garda Murphy said that a man aged 87 and his 86-year-old wife were watching television in the house at the time. He told the court that the house was quickly engulfed in flames but the couple were unharmed. Garda Murphy said that if it had been a short time later the pensioners would have been in bed with potentially tragic consequences. Paul McCarthy had complete disregard for the elderly occupants of the property which was completely destroyed. From the initial investigations, gardai are not of the belief that these persons were the intended victims, he said. He added that it was alleged that Mr McCarthy drove from Dublin with the two other individuals. Gardai indicated to the court that, from their investigations, the two pensioners are not believed to have been the targets of the attack. She set up Watch Your Back Ireland in 2019 The former owner of a human resources company has appeared in court charged with a total of 98 separate fraud offences. Denyse OBrien (41) was remanded in custody with consent to bail when she appeared before Dublin District Court yesterday. She was charged with 18 counts of deception, 47 counts of using a false instrument and 33 counts of forgery following an investigation by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB). Three addresses were given for Ms OBrien, in Tralee and Ballybunion in Co Kerry, and a hostel in Galway. She was arrested in Galway on Tuesday before her court appearance, at which evidence of arrest, charge and caution was given by GNECB detective David Comerford. Denyse OBrien News in 90 Seconds - August 14th Gardai objected to bail, but Ms OBrien was granted it on condition that she provides a cash lodgment to the court of 400, along with other conditions. These include that she sign on three times a week at a garda station, be contactable by phone at all times, surrender her passport and keep away from witnesses. The case was adjourned to next Wednesday at Dublin District Court and is expected to be eventually sent forward to the Circuit Court, which has wider sentencing powers. Ms OBrien set up HR company Watch Your Back Ireland in 2019, and many of the charges relate to her alleged activities with that firm. Some of the 98 charges she is facing include that under Section 26 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 she used a false email supposedly from an employee of the Workplace Relations Commission in August 2020 with the intention of inducing another person to accept it as genuine. She is also accused of using false emails purporting to be from a number of different organisations, including the Office of the Press Ombudsman on December 7, 2022; the Labour Court on two dates in August 2023; and the National Vetting Bureau of An Garda Siochana on August 21, 2022. She is further charged that on three occasions in December, 2022, she used a false email supposedly from an employee of the Courts Service, as well as twice in June 2022 and once in May of that year. Ms OBrien also faces multiple charges under Section 26 of the Criminal Justice Act including that she dishonestly by deception induced a named woman to transfer 700 to her company, Watch Your Back Ireland, between March 1, 2020, and November 20, 2022. Other alleged deception charges relate to the transfer of sums to her from separate named individuals of amounts including 3,737, 1,600, 935, 720, 420, 310, 305 and 210. Among the other charges are that she used a false headed letter from a named firm of solicitors on two occasions in September, 2022, and another solicitors firm in June 2022. It is also alleged that she used a false separation agreement on three occasions, in April, 2022; August, 2021; and June, 2023. Ms OBrien is also charged with using a false document purporting to be from employers group Ibec to induce another person to accept it as genuine and by reason of so accepting the said instrument to do some act, to the prejudice of that person or any other person. Delivery of weapons from Germany to Israel, package of military aid (illustrative) (photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK) Renk CEO, Alexander Sagel, told the Financial Times that the company has a responsibility to ensure that Israel can maintain its deterrence capabilities. German defense contractor Renk Group, which manufactures gearboxes for Israeli tanks and armored vehicles, has announced that it is working on a way to bypass Germany's decision to halt arms sales to Israel, the companys CEO, Alexander Sagel, told The Financial Times in an interview. Sagel explained that it had a responsibility to ensure that Israel can maintain its deterrence capabilities. According to Sagel, the company was still trying to understand the consequences of Chancellor Friedrich Merzs announcement last week that he would suspend the sale of military products that could be used in Gaza. Sagel also told FT that as a German company, Renk would comply with the countrys laws and regulations, but he also made clear that they were exploring different options to continue their sales to Israel. It is also clear that we are discussing a plan B. Plan B is that we relocate production of these specific transmissions to the US, said Sagel, who earlier told analysts that Israel accounted for 2 to 3 per cent of Renks sales. THE ANNOUNCEMENT by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to suspend arms deliveries to Israel has unleashed quite a storm at home, says the writer. (credit: Nadja Wohlleben/Reuters) Germanys Renk calls it a 'difficult decision, but highlights their 'responsibility' Sagel also emphasized the morality of Renks decision to keep selling parts to Israel, arguing that the humanitarian situation in Gaza. It was a difficult discussion, Segel said, and added, Of course, we see all the discussions about the Gaza Strip. But from the German point of view, we have a responsibility to ensure that Israel is able to maintain its deterrence capabilities. These are not only needed in Gaza but also at other borders. Another incentive seems to be centered around its impact on the companys performance, with Segel stating that if the embargo went ahead, it was likely to hit Renks operating profit by an amount in the mid single-digit millions of euros in the second half of the year. The report also noted how Renks decision was not the norm in Germany, with giant Rheinmetall, whose products include tank ammunition, stating that they were not exporting any weapons to Israel. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was 72 at the time of the alleged assaults. 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 9th 2021. The trial began before Judge John Alymer at Carrick-on-Shannon Circuit Court with a jury of eight men and four women. Mr Edward Sweetman BL with Ms Niamh McGovern, State Solicitor, prosecuted, while Mr Colm Smyth SC, with Mr Eoin McGovern BL instructed by Mr Gerard McGovern, solicitor, appeared for the accused. Mr Sweetman outlined that the complainant was 14 at the time of the alleged assault and she was interviewed by specialist gardai when she was fifteen. The trail took place at Carrick-on-Shannon courthouse News in 90 Seconds - August 14th The accused was a married man with children. The jury heard three days of evidence in the trial. Detective Garda Tom Tully of Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station told the court he carried out a specialist interview with the alleged victim and a colleague of his, Gda Mary Tighe was present. The recorded interview took place on November 29 2021 and was played to the jury. She said the accused was being weird and she said he winked at her. She said that around 1pm she was outside and the accused asked her to come up his house for tea. The complainant told gardai she went in and sat down in the sitting room. The accused was leaning against the fire. She said he put his hand out and she could not remember what he said. She said she went to high five his hand and said he pulled her up. He was hugging her and she could feel him grabbing her. She said she was trying to push him off. He was hugging and grabbing her and the accused asked if she was okay with this. He said will you promise not to tell Mam. She said his wife then rang at 1:26pm and she pretended to text her mother and told the accused her mother was texting and that she was up at their house. The girl said that when she was going out the door of the accuseds house, he grabbed her again and said well finish this the next time. She said the accused gave her and her brother a lift home as it was raining. She said she didnt want a lift and sat in the back seat. When asked by Dt Gda Tully about the hugging and grabbing, she said in the incident in the sitting room, he took her hand and pulled her up and pulled her in on top of him. She said she was like a statue and one of his hands was on her bum and another on her breast. She said he was not letting go. The complainant said she went home and phoned her friend. Her friend said to tell her mother and she said she wasnt going to. She said her friend made her tell her mother. She said her friends mother typed a text message to the accused on the girls phone which read, if you ever do what you did to me this morning Ill go to the guards. In cross-examination, Mr Smyth asked the witness if she turned up the following morning (August 10) to babysit and she replied she had. She said the families were quite close. He put it to her that the accused was on a telephone call to his vet at 1:19pm that day in his farmyard. He said that there was a very tight short timeline for the accused to get to the house where the alleged assault was taking place, with his wife calling him at 1:26pm. Mr Smyth said that the man telephoned her father three times and that he was very upset and worried after receiving the text message. He rang three times and her father called him back the following day and the phonecall was recorded by her father. The accused denied anything happened in any shape or form. Mr Smyth said that his clients recollection of their conversation in the house was that she enquired about a young man she was going out with at the time. The complainant said she didnt remember that conversation. When asked the alleged victim said she was frozen. She said she would have walked past him but she couldnt move. He asked her about the text message that was sent to the accused at half two that day (August 9) asking her if she thought it was fairly threatening and she replied no. He said it did not seem to be coming from someone who was frozen and terrified and witness replied that it was after the alleged assault. He put it to her that the accused did not assault her in the timeline set out as he didnt have the time. Yes, he did, he did do it, replied the alleged victim. The mother of the alleged victim gave evidence to the jury. She said she was on her lunchbreak from work and she met her daughter in their kitchen. She was visibly shaking and said she was not sure if she should tell her or not, but her friend said if she didnt, she would tell her. Her mother asked her what was wrong. She replied that she was after being groped by the accused. She said she was in shock and tried to ask her what happened. She said her daughter said the accused put his arms around her and tried to hold on and that he touched her. She said her daughter told her she was getting up to give the accused a high five and he pulled her towards her in a grope and held tight. One hand of his was one her bum and one was on her breast, she said. Her daughter said it lasted a minute or two and then the accuseds phone rang and it was his wife. She said her daughter pretended to message her. When asked by Mr Sweetman what her reaction was, she replied that she nearly dropped. She said she thought this is not happening to me. She said she could remember her daughter shaking and said not to tell her father. The witness said she texted her husband to call her. The woman went back to work and dropped her daughter to her friends house. When asked if they had any contact with the accused, she replied that her husband had a couple of missed calls and rang back the next day. The conversation with her husband and the accused was recorded and she was there. The accused said he got a serious text message and what were they going to do about it. He said absolutely nothing had happened. A short time after the phonecall, they met the accused as planned. The mother said that the accused had sexually assaulted her daughter. She said that none of them wanted to be there and everyone was very upset. She said the accused said to her to look into his eyes and said he never touched her. The woman said she replied she (daughter) is only 14 years of age and they had nothing to do but go to the gardai. She said they didnt want to but they felt they had no choice. She said everyone was very upset including the accused. They then went to the garda station and the gardai took their statements. When asked by Mr Sweetman how her daughter was after the alleged incident, she replied that she was very shaken up, very embarrassed and very traumatised. Mr Smyth said that after the meeting the accused went to complain to gardai about the text message at 7pm that evening. Mr Sweetman in his closing speech to the jury said there was a conflict between whose idea it was to go up to the house for tea. He said the accused said it was the complainants idea to have tea. Mr Sweetman said that something jars in the reality of the human experience of a child inviting herself to tea. He said the complainant doesnt drink tea and said there was a conflict in the evidence. He said that one question the jury had to consider was whether there was time for this to happen. He said the timeline was central. He said the complainant said it happened in one or two minutes. He told the jury the other evidence they should give particular regard to is that the complainant almost immediately tells her mother, who said she was visibly upset. Mr Sweetman told the jury that nothing could remove the compelling account given by the complainant. He said they have to decide whether to accept the accuseds account of what happened or if they are convinced by the complainants beyond reasonable doubt. He asked them to convict on both allegations. Mr Smyth told the jury that their task was a very difficult one in that there were two people involved, the complainant who was on the brink of early life and the accused, a semi-retired farmer. He said he was a man that raised his family and had been married a long time. He had no previous convictions and had led a blameless life. He said a sexual assault case is very difficult as it is one word against another. He said the accused man was very worried and very concerned after receiving the text message and asked the jury if those are the actions of a man who committed a serious offence. He told the jury they had to decide whether it was a case that was proven beyond reasonable doubt. After deliberating for three hours and two minutes, the jury foreman told Judge Aylmer that they were deadlocked and could not reach an agreement on each count. Judge Aylmer thanked the jury and excused them from jury service for five years. The Director of Public Prosecutions will now decide if there is to be a re-trial in the matter.. Defence counsel Katriona Keenan had she urged the court to give him a chance A Romanian man who had to be extradited from the Republic to face an allegation of sexual assault, was refused bail today. Mihai Popescu appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court by video link from HMP Maghaberry where the 41-year-old applied for bail. Popescu, listed as current address unknown, faces charges of sexual assault and handling stolen goods, namely the complainants mobile phone, between 18-20 April 2019. A detective told the court it was in the early hours of 20 April 2019 when police received a report that a 24-year-old female had been raped. Officers attended an address in the city and found the complainant extremely upset, he said. The alleged victim recounted how she had gone back to her friends address but because she was so tired, she went to bed and went straight to sleep. Sometime later, she awoke to feel her trousers pulled down and a hand rubbing at the top of her leg, said the officer, adding that before police arrived, she said that one of the males had taken her mobile phone. Police rang the phone to try to ascertain where the phone was, a male with a foreign accent answered the phone, swore and hung up. The victim was taken to the rape enquiry centre and endured a medical examination before recording an Achieving Best Evidence video interview with detectives. The court heard that Popescu was arrested as he matched the description of the alleged assailant, and when he was searched, officers found the complainants stolen mobile phone. Having been interviewed by police, Popescu was freed on police bail pending further enquires and forensics examinations, but he failed to return. We ascertained that he had left the country in breach of bail conditions, said the officer, adding that extradition proceedings were then initiated. He told the court police were objecting to bail because obviously, he poses a flight riskhe was out of the country for approximately four years. Submitting that Popescu could be granted bail with conditions, defence counsel Katriona Keenan explained how the defendants home had been damaged. Police attended and told them to leave the area and at that stage, they had no jobs and no money so they went to their family home but came back around a year later, said the barrister. Revealing that Popescu was in Belfast for a time, Miss Keenan said that since then, the couple had settled in Dublin where they both worked. Although she urged the court to give him a chance, Deputy District Judge Alan White told her: I hear what you say but the fact remains, he was extradited. He has had four or five years to hand himself in and even though he came back, he did not hand himself in, said the judge. Refusing bail and remanding Popescu back into custody until 21 August, Judge White told the court, in my view he remains a flight risk. Sonali Flynn was subjected to a brutal attack in Tralee Sonali Flynn has lived in Ireland since 1999 and never suffered racial abuse or a racist attack. This all changed when Sonali and her friends were out celebrating Kerrys All-Ireland victory in Tralee on July 27. Sonali was viciously assaulted outside a takeaway and told she was a a f***ing foreign b****. The attack has left Sonali mentally scarred and feeling afraid to leave her home. She was repeatedly kicked and punched in the face while on the ground. Her hair was pulled and used to drag her along the floor. Sonali also had her head banged against the window of the takeaway. She had watched the Kerry match at home earlier that day and decided to go out and savour the excitement and watch The Sunday Game. Sonali Flynn at her home in Tralee. Photo Mark O'Sullivan. News in 90 Seconds - August 15th A friend of mine said lets go into town and see the excitement and happiness of the community. It was a very natural thing that I would have done on many previous occasions that Kerry won. I was looking forward to the homecoming the next day. I absolutely couldnt do that after what happened, she said. The incident happened when Sonali was trying to order food later that evening. She asked a man beside her if he was being served when a woman approached and started shouting, What is your problem you f***ing foreign b****. Sonali immediately went to leave the premises but the woman followed her and started attacking. The assault continued outside the takeaway for several minutes. From nowhere, this woman appeared and said what is your problem you f***ing foreign b****. I got a fright and started walking out. She grabbed me by the hair from behind and shattered my head off the glass, Sonali said. "I was on the ground and she was kicking me in the head, she was punching me, she was tearing my head and body around. It was just horrible. All I was doing was calling for help and for people to call the guards, she added. I no longer feel safe enough to walk in my own town of Tralee Sonali she she is still in a state of shock, upset, and traumatised. The days since the attack have been extremely difficult as fear has overtaken her. But she wants to highlight the issue and make people aware. I no longer feel safe enough to walk in my own town of Tralee where I have lived all these years. Its completely shocking and unbelievable, she said. The incident is further evidence of the kind of random attacks committed against Irelands Asian community in recent weeks. The flip side of this is that Sonali considers herself more Kerry than Indian. I dont consider myself an Indian. Im part of the Indian community but I consider myself a complete Irish woman. Ive lived in Ireland for more years than Ive lived in India. Kerry is home to me. I was married here and I have two beautiful children who were born in Tralee. I have long been involved in the community, she said. Im not going to let this one incident make me think anything against my own Irish people Sonali insists the traumatic attack has not caused her to lose faith in the Irish community, but she is extremely worried for the future considering similar attacks will happen. Im not going to let this one incident make me think anything against my own Irish people, my own county, and my own town of Tralee who are with me, she said. There is a minority of the Irish society which I feel is extremely ignorant and are also spreading negative news through protests. That, in itself, is alluring the ignorance of the minority who believe this country belongs only to them. The whole world is a multicultural world. Skin colour should not be a cause for violence, Sonali. Gardai said its investigations are ongoing. Jamie Rothwell has vowed to turn his life around after living in "isolation, loneliness and fear" Rothwell had now turned away from a life of crime Rothwell had boasted about his life of crime The head of a British organised crime gang who ordered rivals to be shot on the streets of the UK from his Barcelona bolthole has given up living a life of crime, a court has heard. Jamie Rothwell who organised shootings and traded assault rifles from his flat in Spain has pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to a string of drugs and firearms offences. Rothwell, who was found by police "hiding out" at the apartment had vowed to turn his life around after living in "isolation, loneliness and fear", his barrister, Chris Henley, KC, said. The 38-year-old 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 EncroChat phone network that was hacked into by French police in 2020. Jamie Rothwell News in 90 Seconds - August 14th Thousands of organised criminals, who were oblivious to the fact they had been compromised, carried on sending messages that were intercepted and shared with British police forces. 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, Greater Manchester Police said. Prosecutor Jaime Hamilton, KC, told how some of the messages revealed the violence that is the hallmark and by-product of his business". In one chilling message 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 weapons including an RPG, M16, AKs, and Glocks. Mr Hamilton said Rothwell also discussed how he had fallen out with other criminals and engaged in a "six-month war" with one. Rothwell had boasted about his life of crime The court heard how Cheshire man Liam Byrne was told by police that his life was under threat in April 2020 after Rothwell and another man discussed finding his address and that of his father. Rothwell soon got these details along with photographs of the men and images of their addresses from a satellite mapping application. Mr Byrnes stepfather was later 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 where he had fled after police in the UK handed him a "threat to life" notice. Having been extradited back to the UK 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. Rothwell had now turned away from a life of crime In mitigation, Mr Henley said Rothwell had spent five years thinking about his life since his arrest. He now felt feelings of "remorse and regret", including for "breaking the hearts" of his family. 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". 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. Rothwell, who was flanked by four security guards in the dock, will appear via video link on Thursday for sentencing. Under investigation for rape and credit card fraud, the man known in the US as Nicholas Rossi, faked his own death in 2020. A man who was accused of faking his own death by claiming to be an Irish orphan has been found guilty of rape in the United States. The man known in the US as Nicholas Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, is accused of sexually assaulting two women in Utah in 2008. He had fled to Scotland to escape justice but was extradited back to the US in January 2024 after a lengthy case in the Scottish courts. Rossi had denied all charges in the case relating to the Salt Lake County attack and it took the jurors of four men and four women more than eight hours to reach their verdict. He still faces another trial for an alleged rape in Utah County, which is scheduled for September. According to the BBC, Rossi, who had previously been joking with his legal team, showed no emotion as the verdict was read out. Nicholas Rossi News in 90 Seconds - August 14th The court had heard from the woman Rossi raped in Salt Lake County - referred to as MS, how they initially met online. They had begun dating and were engaged after two weeks but Rossi's behaviour soon changed, she said. He became controlling, borrowed money from her, would not let her drive her own car and criticised her clothing. When the woman tried to end the relationship, Rossi pushed her on the bed at his apartment and raped her. The defence claimed MS was resentful after losing money on the engagement rings. They argued that she only spoke of the rape allegation after seeing Rossi in the news 13 years later. The court then heard from the woman Rossi is accused of raping at his apartment in Orem, Utah County. Appearing as a witness in the current case, the woman, referred to as KP said she met Rossi on social networking site MySpace in August 2008, when she was 21. They began a short relationship but soon found out he had used her credit card details without permission to buy a computer. After the relationship ended, he admitted he did not have the money to pay her back. He then began performing a sex act on himself and when she tried to leave, Rossi pulled her clothing down before raping her. Nicholas Rossi leaving Edinburgh Sheriff and Justice of the Peace Court Under investigation for rape and credit card fraud, he faked his own death in 2020 and fled the US in attempt to escape justice. Authorities suspected he was somewhere in the UK. That same year, Rossi married his wife Miranda in Bristol. He came to the attention of authorities when he was identified at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow in December 2021 while being treated for Covid-19 under the name Arthur Knight. He created this alias under the guise of being an Irish orphan before his true identity was uncovered by police. He was arrested after being identified by his distinctive tattoos as a person the US authorities wanted to extradite, but claimed this was a case of mistaken identity. Months of court proceedings in Edinburgh followed but in November 2022, Sheriff Norman McFadyen determined the man claiming to be Knight was indeed Rossi. An extradition hearing took place in June 2023, with Sheriff McFadyen ruling there was no barrier to Rossis extradition. In his Scottish hearings, Rossi would appear in a wheelchair and sometimes with an oxygen mask. An extradition warrant was signed in September 2023 and Rossi was finally sent to the US in January 2024. Prosecutors in the US say they have identified at least a dozen aliases Rossi used over the years to evade capture. Rossi grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and had returned to the state before allegedly faking his death. An obituary published online claimed he died on February 29 2020 of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. State police, along with Rossis former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was dead. A year later, hospital staff in Scotland recognised his tattoos from an Interpol notice and alerted authorities. He was extradited to Utah in January 2024. This case is like an old puzzle from the thrift store, said MacKenzie Potter, one of Rossis lawyers. Its 13 years old, not all the pieces are there, some pieces are from a different puzzle. And when you start going through everything, youre not going to get a complete picture. Prosecutors pushed back, saying that if any puzzle pieces are missing, it is because Rossis lawyers fought to have some evidence dismissed. His funeral will be held on Saturday, August 16 in St. Brigids Church in Downpatrick and will be followed by interment in Struell Cemetery. The funeral of murder victim Stephen Brannigan will be held this weekend. The 56-year-old died following an incident in the Marian Park area of Downpatrick on Sunday. Mr Brannigan, a father and a grandfather, was pronounced dead at the scene after officers and ambulance service personnel were called to the property following a report of the death of a man at the address. The funeral will be held on Saturday, August 16 in St. Brigids Church in Downpatrick and will be followed by interment in Struell Cemetery. Stephen Brannigan News in 90 Seconds - August 14th The chapel is the same place where a prayer vigil was held last Sunday evening after his body was discovered. Prayers at this gathering were also said for Fr John Murray, who had been assaulted with a bottle in the sacristy of St Patricks Church. The elderly priest who was due to retire this week is reportedly progressing in hospital. In the funeral notice, Mr Brannigan is remembered as a beloved father and grandfather. Dearly beloved husband of the late Dorenda, and much loved father of Gemma and Ciara, loving grandfather of Sophie, Lily, Connor, Clodagh, Holly and Ruairi, dear son of Gerry and Kathleen, and brother of Damien, Michelle, Adrian and Paul, the funeral notice read. It added: Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects at his parents home." Stephen Brannigan died after an attack in Downpatrick on Sunday (PSNI/PA) On Monday, Mr Brannigans family thanked the local community for their support following his death. "We want to express our particular thanks to those who organised and gathered for the beautiful prayer vigil in St Brigid's Church in the town on Sunday evening, they said. "It means so much to us at this difficult time and reflects the very special people who make up the Marian Park and wider Downpatrick community. "Stephen was known among his neighbours and friends as someone who was always willing to help out, ready to do whatever needed to be done for the good of others. "Even the day before he died, he was tending the graves of friends and neighbours, as he did, almost every day, the grave of his late wife Dorenda, who died five years ago from cancer. "Stephen faced many difficult issues in his life. We know his life was not perfect. But for us, he was our dad, our grandad, our son and our brother. "His rock through all of this was Dorenda. We pray they will be reunited now in perfect peace and love. Hugh Malone appeared in court on Wednesday after being charged with the murder of Mr Brannigan, and attempted murder of Fr Murray. The 30-year-old appeared before Newtownards Magistrates Court today via video-link from Belfasts Musgrave police station. Edwina Brady was granted retention, but the case has now been appealed to An Coimisiun Pleanala by her brothers 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. Edwina Brady and her siblings, Martin Brady and George Brady, co-own a site on Landscape Road in Churchtown, Dublin 14. The plot of land includes the family home in which they all grew up. For the last 10 years, Ms Brady has been living in a log cabin close to the house. She has submitted multiple retention applications, nearly all of which have been objected to by her brothers. They have argued that the cabin was built without their consent and is blocking the agreed sale and development of the site. In 2015, Ms Brady and her mother, Isobel Brady, decided to construct a cabin to move into because they claimed the house was in very poor condition and not suitable for renovation. However, the cabin was developed without planning permission. The log cabin on the property in Churchtown in Dublin belonging to Edwina Brady as seen in photos in the planning application for retention Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council subsequently sent a warning letter and a retention application was lodged. According to documents filed, Isobel Brady, who was 91 at the time, was experiencing difficulty walking to and from her house because it is at the bottom of a very steeply sloped driveway. During winter weather conditions she can become trapped in her own home, the application said. On one occasion, she suffered a bad fall trying to navigate the driveway. The family home was described as a dilapidated, substandard semi-detached cottage. The cabin was located on level ground and made it easier for her to access the local shops. Both Ms Brady and her mother, who owned five-ninths of the site at the time, sought retention of the cabin for a temporary period of five years. The application was objected to by both her brothers. They also previously objected to an application their sister made for a two-bedroom bungalow on the site in 2013. The main reason for our objection is that we were excluded completely from the planning application process and we were denied any input into the nature of the proposed development, Martin Brady said in December 2015. I am the owner of a two-ninth share in the entire premises, as is my brother George. There has been division in the family over the ownership of the site for some time. I submit that the only reason my mother and sister caused the works to commence without obtaining planning permission was that they knew in the light of previous experience that I and my brother would object and more importantly they were afraid that we would be successful in our objection as we were in 2013. Despite the objections, the council granted retention for the two-bedroom, single-storey log chalet in April 2016. Isobel Brady passed away the following January, and her daughter has continued to live in the log chalet alone. After the five-year period expired, Edwina Brady submitted another retention application in May 2021. We are requesting an extension of duration of this temporary permission, as due the death of our clients mother, Isobel, and also the onset of the global pandemic, this has changed the split of ownership of the site and our client and her brothers have not had sufficient time to make progress on the long-term plan for this site, the cover letter said. The application was declared invalid. According to documents on the councils website, both Ms Bradys brothers agreed to her applying for a temporary extension at that time. Another application was lodged in September 2024, which was also declared invalid. A digger at the log cabin on the property in Churchtown in Dublin belonging to Edwina Brady as seen in photos in the planning application for retention She applied again two months later. Her architect, Joseph English, said she had no alternative accommodation and was seeking retention of the log chalet for a further three years. However, on this occasion, both her brothers objected again. They claimed the site is currently being sold and any extension of retention could hinder its sale. Last month, the council granted retention. It said the development did not detract from the character of the surrounding area and was in accordance with the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown county development plan. Martin Brady and George Brady have now appealed the decision to An Coimisiun Pleanala. They claim the presence of the log cabin and their sisters exclusive occupation have blocked the agreed sale and development for more than seven years. There is a well-documented and ongoing shortage of housing in Churchtown and the surrounding areas, they said. The proposed development site presents a valuable opportunity to deliver much-needed residential units, whether in the form of houses or apartments. They also allege the retention applications are an abuse of the planning process. The case is due to be decided by December 3. Donal OSullivan is on supervised release after his conviction A Kerry native who, along with his sister, defrauded trade union funds of more than $1.2m (1m) in New York, will be permitted to fly to Ireland to see family members after a US court loosened travel restrictions. Donal OSullivan is on supervised release in the United States, having also served a six-month prison sentence. He is the co-founder of Navillus Contracting a New York construction firm. Last month, his 2023 conviction for fraud and embezzlement was upheld, as was that of his sister, Helen OSullivan, and a Tipperary native, Padraig Naughton. Donal O'Sullivan of Navillus News in 90 Seconds - August 14th The trio were convicted of the felonies after Navillus concocted a scheme to avoid making required contributions to various benefits funds controlled by unions. Mr OSullivan and Padraig Naughton were each sentenced to six months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release. Ms OSullivan was sentenced to two years of probation. Mr OSullivan was founder, owner, and president of Navillus Tile, which traded as Navillus Contracting, a large construction company in New York city. He employed his sister as Navilluss payroll manager, and Mr Naughton as its comptroller. As a union company, Navillus entered into collective bargaining agreements with a number of unions. In addition to paying their employees hourly wages, Navillus was required, pursuant to the collective agreements, to make contributions to the union benefits funds. These contributions were calculated based upon the number of hours Navillus employees spent performing work covered by the respective unions collective bargaining agreements, irrespective of whether the employees were union members. Although Navillus primarily used its in-house payroll department to compensate employees, over the course of six years a portion of its payroll was run through a firm called DEM Consulting, which traded as Allied. It paid a total of 97 Navillus employees, including those who did work covered by the collective bargaining agreements. A US court heard that each week Ms OSullivan and Mr Naughton shared with Allied details of how many hours were worked by Navillus employees, their respective wages, and their trade classifications. Allied paid the listed Navillus employees and invoiced Navillus for reimbursement and an additional fee for facilitating the payroll compensation, noted the court. Navillus made no contributions to the union benefits funds for the Navillus employees paid by Allied. Mr OSullivan, Ms OSullivan and Mr Naughton were charged in 2020 with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and convicted the following year. They were sentenced in 2023. Appeals against their convictions were rejected last month. Mr OSullivan then asked for the early termination of his supervised release. He argued this was justified due to his exceptionally good behaviour while on release, and changed circumstances in Ireland, which are making international travel requirements unduly stressful and burdensome on him. Based on the nature and circumstances of the crime, there is a need for the defendants sentence, including his term of supervised release, to deter others from engaging in the same type of fraud, the court said. However it agreed to modify his supervised release conditions to permit him to travel outside the immediate district in New York without receiving prior approval from the Probation Department. Electronic tagging pilot project is expected to initially number fewer than 70 tags The number of sex offenders in jail has almost doubled in the last three years, but the Irish Prison Service can no longer keep them fully segregated from the rest of the prison population due to the high number of inmates. The Sunday World also understands the Department of Justices electronic tagging pilot project, which has gone to tender, is expected to initially number less than 70 tags. It will be up and running by the end of the year. The low number in the pilot scheme means it will not have any immediate impact on the prison overcrowding issue. However, a government source stressed the pilot project is expected to be expanded swiftly after its initial run. Jim OCallaghan said a steering group will look at tagging issues As of last week, there were 5,579 inmates in Irish prisons, with a total bed capacity for 4,672, meaning the system was close to 1,000 prisoners over capacity. As of May 31 this year, there were 800 sentenced prisoners in custody for sexual offences. This compares to 489 on the same date in 2022. Traditionally, sex offenders have been housed mainly at the Midlands Prison and Dublins Arbour Hill Prison. However, due to the increased numbers, these offenders are now also being housed in The Grove in Castlerea Prison, Co Roscommon, where sex offenders and other long-term inmates live in houses within the grounds. In addition, Mountjoy Prison West now houses a number of sex offenders. It was decided that this is a suitable location to accommodate sex offenders Justice Minister Jim OCallaghan told the Dail in recent weeks: I can confirm that the process of accommodating sex offenders in the part of Mountjoy Prison West, which was previously known as the Progression Unit, commenced during March 2024. This area of Mountjoy Prison is self-sufficient in relation to recreation, education, work and training. There is no requirement for prisoners living here to interact or traverse to the main prison. For this reason, it was decided that this is a suitable location to accommodate sex offenders. Prison bosses have always strived to keep sex offenders separate to other inmates, for their own safety, but this is proving increasingly difficult. The Midlands and Arbour Hill are the traditional jails used to house sex offenders. But now these type of offenders are also in Mountjoy West, The Grove in Castlerea as well as Limerick and Cork prisons. The number of sex offenders has significantly increased but prison space has not, said a prison source. There is a protection issue and the Irish Prison Service is aware of this. A sex offenders regime is slightly different to the rest of the prison population. The Grove, Castlerea Prison Sex offenders generally go out to recreational yards at the same time. These type of prisoners dont generally mix with the rest of the prison population but stick to themselves. But in the houses in The Grove in Castlerea, they are alongside other long-term prisoners, who are generally nearing the end of their sentence, the source said. It is certainly not the case that sex offenders could ever be housed in the main prison population in Mountjoy for example. The Building Better Lives (BBL) programme, previously the primary treatment for sex offenders in Irish prisons, was replaced by a new model called New Chapters last November following a review. At present it is only available at the Midlands and Arbour Hill prisons. Sex offenders, unlike all other prisoners, are not entitled to an automatic 25pc remission from their jail terms. They are also not eligible for early release. This cohort of criminals would not be considered for release to be monitored by an electronic tag however, they could potentially be tagged if they are subject to a post-release supervision order by the courts. Mr OCallaghan outlined to the Dail that electronic tagging is expected to be used for some people out on bail, on temporary release and sex offenders subject to a post-release supervision order or a sex-offender order that includes a condition restricting movement. He said existing legislation provides for electronic monitoring in certain circumstances and that a steering group was established in 2024 to oversee electronic monitoring proposals. I am advised that work is under way involving representatives from the various agencies to prepare to operationalise electronic monitoring, he said. This includes consideration of technology, data protection, procurement, implementation, and operating model design. A Request for Information was published on eTenders on Thursday, 5th June. An initial rollout of electronic monitoring is expected later this year following a procurement exercise to select a service provider. The former EU Commissioner sent an email to party members today saying she is withdrawing on medical advice Mairead McGuinness did not have to take part in a contest to become Fine Gael's candidate for president. Photo: David Conachy Fine Gaels Mairead McGuinness is to withdraw from the presidential election race on health grounds. There is shock this evening within the party ranks after the former EU Commissioner who has led every opinion poll so far revealed the news. The Irish Independent has seen an email sent to Fine Gael members by Ms McGuinness. In it she says it was a very difficult decision that was not lightly taken and follows a stay in hospital last week. No details of her condition has been disclosed. My priority now is my health. Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all. I am taking this decision on medical advice and while it is extremely difficult, it is the right decision for me and my family. Ms McGuinness acknowledges in her note that the development will come as a shock to party members. I have spoken with the Tanaiste and Party leader, Simon Harris, and thank him for his support and understanding. I also want to thank all of those people who have done so much to support me, now and in the past. The email concludes: My focus now is my health and my family and I ask for privacy in the time ahead. Mairead McGuinness did not have to take part in a contest to become Fine Gael's candidate for president. Photo: David Conachy Ms McGuinness was the only name put forward for the party, although several others had been speculated upon including ex-MEP Sean Kelly, former Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald and former minister Heather Humphreys. It was expected that Ms McGuinness would run a low key ground campaign over the summer before a formal launch next month. However she has been noticeably absent from major public events such as last weekends Tullamore Show. Mairead McGuinness News in 90 Seconds - August 14th In a statement Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said Ms McGuinness has made an incredible contribution to public life in Ireland and in Europe. "It was our clear view in Fine Gael and the view of many people across Ireland that Mairead would make an excellent President of Ireland. Maireads health will not now allow this. This has come as an awful shock to us all. Mairead is a valued member of our Fine Gael family. It is absolutely essential that she now prioritises her health and I know I speak for everyone when I wish her all the very best on that journey. He said Fine Gael will reconsider its strategy for the election. But thats for the time ahead, not for today. Today I want to pay tribute to Mairead. I want to thank her for all she has done. I want to wish her and Tom and their family all the best at this time and she knows we are all sending her our very best, Ms Harris said. It means the only candidate now formally in the race is Independent TD Catherine Connolly who has the backing of the Social Democrats, Labour Party and People Before Profit. Ms McGuinness served as an MEP for six years and as European Financial Services Commissioner for four years in that time. She first attempted a tilt at Aras an Uachtarain in 2011 but lost out on Fine Gael nomination to Gay Mitchell. It has been assumed ever since that she would be the frontrunner for the party. Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)-listed Global Lithium Resources has signed a Native Title Mining Agreement involving its subsidiary, GLR Australia, and the Kakarra Part B Native Title Group. The agreement is said to be a key development for both parties, enabling the advancement and management of the Manna lithium project in Western Australia. The agreement is expected to provide benefits to the Kakarra Part B Native Title Group while allowing Global Lithium to proceed with the development and operations of the project. These include various work streams and necessary approvals related to the definitive feasibility study and the mining lease application, which are expected to reach significant milestones by the end of the calendar year. Global Lithium managing director Dianmin Chen said: Successfully negotiating a Native Title Mining Agreement that ensures the Kakarra Part B Native Title Holders will benefit from the future development of the Manna Lithium Project, alongside the companys shareholders, was a priority for me and my team when taking on the role of managing director in February 2025. Chen acknowledged the efforts of the legal and commercial teams from both sides for their collaboration throughout the negotiation process. The Manna lithium project is recognised as the third-largest lithium resource in the Eastern Goldfields region, with a mineral resource estimate of 51.6 million tonnes at a grade of 1% lithium oxide. Kakarra Traditional Owner Dennis Forrest said: We believe this Native Title Mining Agreement over the Manna Project has the potential to provide lasting benefits to our community, and we look forward to seeing a lithium mine get built there in the near future. "Global Lithium seals mining native title deal for Manna lithium project" was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. He describes the problems caused by young teens in gangs on the streets, that he described as "testosterone-deprived prepubescents A Spanish TikToker living in Ireland has said he is shocked by the spoiled nature of teenagers in this country, blaming their entitlement on how they're educated at home. Nacho Barrueco posts videos on Tik Tok under the username @nachobarrueco where he shares his experiences living abroad, and specifically in Ireland. One of his latest videos posted on the platform has been picked up by Spanish media as he addresses a debate that seems common in all countries and generates diverse opinions...The education given to children and their behaviour in certain circumstances. Spanish Tiktoker Nacho Barrueco News in 90 Seconds - August 14th The content creator recently uploaded the video describing the problems caused by young teens in gangs on the streets, that he described as "testosterone-deprived prepubescents." "I'm referring to the average Irish boy between 10 and 14-years-old," he says in the clip, which currently has more than 300,000 likes. In the video, Barrueco also refers to an incident that occurred on St Patrick's Day while he was out with his friends. "There were about ten of us, and honestly, we looked like Sporting de Gijon fans. We each had about 20 beers and we ran into some kids who were probably 10, 11, 12-years-old at most. Insisting that they weren't older," the influencer then describes what happened when one of the children approached his group He says to (my) friend, 'hey, give me a beer and a cigarette. Barrueco and his friends reacted with surprise and laughter, telling the boy he didnt look old enough to drink. But, far from being intimidated, the boy responded defiantly, Barrueco explained, adding the kid who weighed 13 kilos wanted to fight me. He goes onto say that what he experienced isn't an isolated case, but is rather a widespread type of behaviour, unfortunately, in the country among that age group. "I was shocked, but like this kid, 80 per cent of children that age are professional challengers, he says in the video, which has nearly 3,000 comments. "I think in Spain, at that age, we tend to hang our heads, man, especially in situations like what happened with this boy, because you've met good people. But imagine if you meet some thugs, they'll slap you three times even if you're 12," he claims, adding that the problem lies in the upbringing within the family. "It has a lot to do with how they're raised at home, he says. The level of spoiled children here in Ireland seems quite high to me," he adds, Barrueco previously raised eyebrows with other observation about the Irish he lives alongside. A previous video expressed his shock that Irish people shower much less than people living in Spain. Barrueco told followers he had noticed that Irish people seemed to bathe less in comparison to those in his native country. He even went so far as to check with an Irish company about his observations. According to the Spanish TikToker, he claims an Irish company told him that here, young children aren't bathed right away, they're bathed once every ten days. Barrueco was further shocked when his landlord allegedly complained about his own showering habits, scolding him for showering too much. "He scolds me because I'm supposed to shower too much, he said. And it's not normal to shower every day here in Ireland," Barrueco continued in the video, which has amassed over 250,000 likes. The TikToker claimed that it is not normal to shower every day in Ireland, and that he was allegedly told by the Irish company that both children and adults take a full bath around every 10 days. According to Barrueco, Spanish people are much cleaner as the weather is considerably warmer, and so they must shower more often. "We Spaniards are too clean because it's so hot, he added. Police have released the name of a child killed in a crash in the Bay of Plenty earlier this year. Two-year-old Sakura Hall, from Mamaku, died in the two-vehicle crash on Dansey Rd, Ngongotaha Valley, on Wednesday, May 22. Two other people were injured in the crash, which involved a rubbish truck. Police released the toddlers name in a statement this morning. Police extend their sympathies to her family and friends at this difficult time. The circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. Chus Heredia Malaga Thursday, 14 August 2025, 17:30 Share Her artistic vision oozes originality and identity. Her manner is as determined as it is sensitive. Svetlana Kalachnik has just moved her painting and printmaking studio to the Victoria district. And she has given soul to a space that few would have imagined such a metamorphosis. The place has an overwhelming personality and will continue to offer classes as a space of creation. She wants her studio to act as the origin of an educational movement around printmaking. She hopes that SK ART workshops will take root in the area and serve, in some way, to inspire an artistic neighbourhood. The studio opened its doors to SUR under the watchful eyes of Manu and Manuela, Kalachnik's husband and daughter respectively. -How did you start painting? -I was five years old. My mother noticed that I was usually very lively and restless but I calmed down a lot when I started to paint. Time would stop and I would spend many hours at it. She wanted to focus my energy on art from the very beginning. She was right. After finishing school I continued studying at an art school in my hometown (Voronez, Russia) for five years and then I went to the Academy of Fine Arts. Since then I have never stopped painting. -Did art have anything to do with your arrival in Malaga? -It's been 26 years now... I brought the art with me and, in turn, I discovered that Malaga is full of art, so I fit in easily. -What do you remember of the Malaga you arrived in (in 1999) on an artistic level? -It was amazing. They took me straight off the plane to see a flamenco concert. And to eat ham. It was a wonderful impact beyond the anecdote. I felt the need to stay. And, obviously, since then, many things have been incorporated to Malaga's art scene. -What does Malaga represent for you? -Everything. It is a city full of light, good people... My family is here. The beaches, the food, the wine, the art, the flamenco, the incredible streets and corners... -You have just embellished the garage door next to your workshop with a painting of the Cathedral... -I would like to do more projects like this if the opportunity arises. -Feeling settled in the Victoria area? -Yes, you get used to the good stuff quickly. -You have recently moved your operations centre from Soho to Calle Paco Miranda, what do you propose for the new venture? -I intend to consolidate a cultural space, to make small exhibitions in keeping with the space, with what my students create. It is also my place of work. I want it to have magic, to be a place with a lot of charm, with a lot of art, with tranquillity and a good atmosphere. It gives me great joy when my students later exhibit their work independently. Zoom The artist next to her mural of Malaga cathedral painted on the garage door next to her studio. Nito Salas -You also have a lot of awareness of the neighbourhood, of trying to contribute to the environment with your studio and workshop... -Yes, exactly. We have an ecological workshop. We recycle paper and I make my prints, without using any acid. We also do oil paintings without solvents, only with oils. The engraving I do is mezzotint, in black, which is done entirely by hand. Incisions are made in a metal plate with special tools. The spaces are removed by hand. Like I said, without a drop of acid. Children, for example, use quality recycled paper, so it's much better for their health as well. -Have you achieved you masterpiece or are you self-critical? -No, no. What artist could possibly think he has come up with that? Noone. When you're in the process of painting, you often feel that it's the best of your life. And when you finish, you always see a lot of room for improvement. The best is always yet to come. This is the essence of the artistic process and what drives you to create more and more. It's a kind of addiction that, in the end, leads you to improve your work thanks to that restlessness that doesn't allow you to stop. You always know you can do better. Zoom Inside the workshop in Victoria - with the print machine in the background. Nito Salas -Of all your work, are there any particularly significant -artistically or otherwise? -I keep my engravings because I find their finish incredible. The mezzotint finish seems like one of the most perfect in the whole world. It is also very special because the machine is made by my husband, Manu, it took him a year to make it. It is a very large machine and it produces things that I am passionate about. -You have spent many years with your studio in the Alameda de Colon. Do you agree with this vision that is being installed that Malaga is already too overcrowded, tourism, rising prices, has the centre become hostile for the Malagueno? -It is a very good thing that tourists come to Malaga. Everyone is welcome. In any case, I hope that things will change, that there will be much more artistic commitment. It's true that everything has distanced itself a little from the people of Malaga, from the locals, but I think that this is going to be corrected. -How do you see the city's cultural policies? -More attention should be paid to microculture. The cultural essence of Malaga has to return. -What are your next plans? -I have just exhibited in Barcelona. I've been doing it for several years in Taiwan and Denmark. Now my project is to exhibit at the Galeria Benedito, in the heart of the historic centre here in Malaga. It has just been refurbished and they have invited me to exhibit. I'm also heading to London, I'll give more details soon. -You made a picture book with a story El Gato, el Raton y la Pequena Manuela (Azimut). Will there be more? -Illustration is a very important part of my life and I will continue. In fact, I'm working on a second book at the moment. It's not going to be a story, it's going to be something much more well-rounded and interesting... -Have you ever felt strange in Malaga because you are from abroad? -Not at all. From the very first moment, I have been very well accepted. The people are very open and welcoming. I feel privileged. I am bringing two cultures together. I'm lucky enough to add my own Russian culture to what I've absorbed from here. And I bring that fusion into my art and people love it. That's why I feel I have an advantage. -You paint few landscapes. But which corner of Malaga would you immortalise? . -The Banos del Carmen. And, in fact, I'm planning to paint several works of sunsets and lots of people eating, you can't miss that. Javier Almellones Malaga Thursday, 14 August 2025, 17:41 Share Sierra Norte de Malaga, formerly known as Nororma, officially became a district in the province a few years ago, comprising seven municipalities: Archidona, the four 'Villanuevas' (del Rosario, del Trabuco, de Tapia and de Algaidas) and the two 'Cuevas' (Bajas and de San Marcos). Sierra Norte de Malaga is a well-defined tourist destination that can be enjoyed all year round. Plaza Ochavada - Archidona's most emblematic square - is at the heart of the historic centre. Keep in mind that it is best to visit it in the evening if you go in the summer, as there is almost no shade during the day. There, you can dine and drink in a variety of restaurants and bars. It is one of the most original squares not only in Malaga but also in the whole of Andalucia. Its originality lies in the perfect combination of different styles such as French 18th-century and Andalusian Mudejar. Archidona's fortress is another site where you need to have the high temperatures in mind when you visit in the summer. It is best to go by car and leave the hike for another season. View from Archidona's castle (top), rafting on the Genil and the nocturnal pilgrimage in Archidona SUR The fortress is located on a hill overlooking the fertile land now covered with olive trees. The best time to walk along the paths is early in the morning and late in the afternoon. From many of the fortress's corners you can clearly see the Pena de los Enamorados mountain, as described in the famous legend of the tragic lovers Tello and Tagzona. Inside, you can also visit the Mozarabic culture interpretation centre. Malaga is one of the few Spanish provinces that gives you the opportunity to go rafting in the summer, thanks to the stretch of the Genil river that passes through the villages of Cuevas Bajas. This tributary of the Guadalquivir flows down with wild waters thanks to the release from the nearby Iznajar reservoir. Ocio Aventura Cerro Gordo is just one of the companies that you can book an adventure with. They offer various levels of difficulty and prices. At the foot of the San Jorge mountain range in Villanueva del Trabuco awaits one of the most original experiences in the province of Malaga - Parque del Arborismo, managed by Pindongos. There, children and adults can do up to three different zip-line circuits through the trees. For added adrenaline, there are safe suspension bridges. The summer carnival and traditional molletes. SUR On a trip to the Sierra Norte de Malaga, you must try some of its most traditional products. These include extra virgin olive oils, sausages, pistachios, molletes (bread baps) and homemade cakes. On 14 August, visitors can experience the only noctural pilgrimage in the province of Malaga, which marks the start of one of the great inland fairs. Hundreds of Archidona locals will climb up to the castle hill and stay there until the early hours of the morning. There will be two masses in honour of the Virgin Mary, which will take place at midnight and at 6am. The attractive summer carnival of Villanueva del Trabuco is part of the fair taking place between 11 and 15 September. It is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to dress up and have fun. On the Saturday of the fair, you can hear local music bands perform. What is even more special about this festival is that it is a recent tradition, born out of the desire of locals to have fun. Jose Carlos Garcia Fuengirola Thursday, 14 August 2025, 13:50 Share The controversial hiring of detectives to monitor public employees who are on sick leave that Fuengirola town hall has announced is not the first time this practice has been done. According to municipal sources, the first contract of this nature was in 2005, when Esperanza Ona was mayor (the first mayor of the town to serve in two non-consecutive terms: the first from 26 May 1991 to 6 June 1993 and the second from 18 June 1995 to 25 May 2015). The last contract of this type was signed in 2020, when the town hall was headed by curent mayor Ana Mula. As the town hall has explained, there have been around 20 detective cases in the past two decades, "always within the legal framework of very specific and justified actions", which have resulted in the dismissal of only one worker, back in 2005. The hired detective discovered and proved that the former public employee was carrying out activities at another workplace while on sick leave. According to municipal sources, hiring detectives for such work is an "exceptional tool", intended to "correct conduct that may harm" municipal staff. "Fortunately, they are the exception," because "we have workers who are an example of professionalism and dedication and who carry out their work responsibly, except in those minimal exceptions," said the town hall. In 2005, detectives caught a municipal employee who was performing another job while he on sick leave The town hall has not specified the exact number of detectives that have been hired to investigate workers on sick leave since 2005, nor the results obtained. In order for the detectives' work to be effective, a disciplinary file must be opened, to which trade unions have access. Union sources in the town hall said that they are aware of at least three sanctioning proceedings in the last 20 years, but the activity of the detectives was only successful on the aforementioned occasion in 2005. Employees and civil servants For salaried staff, as was the case with this employee, labour regulations apply, including the Estatuto de los Trabajadores (workers' statute), as well as the collective agreement of the administration where they provide services. Salaried staff, in any of the three modalities (permanent, indefinite or temporary) are contracted, unlike civil servants, who are appointed, whether as career civil servants (meaning, they have passed a selection process and have a permanent post), interim (who do not hold a permanent position, even if they may have passed a competitive examination) or temporary staff (positions of trust). Their activity is governed by administrative law, starting with the basic national legislation (the Trebep text), as well as the regulatory agreement in the case of Fuengirola town hall. Contrary to what is probably widely believed, the Trebep provides for the possibility of a civil servant, even a career civil servant, losing their status. This requires a "disciplinary sanction of dismissal from service that has become final" following the opening of the corresponding proceedings, which must be conducted by a civil servant. The imposition of a "principal or accessory penalty of absolute or special disqualification from public office" by the courts in a final judgment also results in the loss of civil servant status. The jet ski, stranded on the sand after shooting out of the water. Irene Quirante Thursday, 14 August 2025, 13:11 Share A man has been sanctioned by the Guardia Civil after losing control of a jet ski, which shot through bathers in the sea and ended up stranded on the sand in Mijas. Miraculously, the incident, which took place on Tuesday, 12 August, didn't cause injuries, although video footage shows how the jet ski, which was very close to the shore, flew between a number of people both in and out of the water. The incident happened in the afternoon at La Luna beach. It generated panic and indignation among the public. Although the driver tried to flee in the direction of the Cabopino port, the rapid collaboration of the lifeguards and the Local Police identified and located him. According to sources, the man was reported to the Guardia Civil, who sanctioned him for the recklessness and negligence that had put the safety of bathers at risk. This is not the first jet ski incident in the province of Malaga. The last of these occurred on 29 June, when a woman on a jet ski was killed after colliding with a motorboat in Manilva. The Guardia Civil arrested the driver for reckless homicide and alcohol in his blood. Four people died in jet ski incidents in Malaga province between July 2023 and September 2024. A young man died after the jet ski he was driving collided with a leisure boat in Marbella on 24 August 2024. Just a few weeks earlier, a minor of foreign origin died when the jet ski he was on with his father fell on top of him. The boy's family had only been on the Costa del Sol for a couple of days, enjoying their holidays, when they decided to spend the day at the beach, where some friends lent them their jet ski. The incident occurred close to the shore, where the topography of the seabed generates waves. The jet ski turned on its side and the waves threw the occupants into the water. On 16 July 2023, 32-year-old Marina died from the serious injuries she suffered after reportedly falling from the jet ski while trying to grab her cap from the water. A few days later, on 9 August, a 32-year-old man of French nationality lost his life in another accident with a similar watercraft in Fuengirola. Alfonso Torices Madrid Thursday, 14 August 2025, 11:11 Share Fires that have been raging in at least 30 places in Spain since the weekend left a devastating toll on Wednesday: seven seriously injured and dozens more of varying degrees of severity; more than 10,000 people evacuated; some 25,000 hectares of forest and woodland, including the World Heritage site of Las Medulas, ravaged by the fires. The fires have claimed, directly or indirectly, the lives of four people: Abel Ramos, 35, in Leon; Jaime Aparicio Vidales, also in Leon; Mircea Spiridon, 50, in the Madrid town of Tres Cantos; and the firefighter who died in a traffic accident on the way to help in the extinguishing of a fire in Avila last week. Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez updated the public through his profile on X (formerly Twitter), confirming that the situation "remains serious" and that "extreme caution is essential". Minister of the Interior Fernando Grande-Marlaska called for the cooperation of the public, urging everyone to follow "the instructions of the emergency services" to avoid more serious consequences. The current situation is: 30 outbreaks still active, ten of them large, in eight regions from north to south. The good news is that the extinguishing teams have put under control the main fires in Andalucia, Castilla-La Mancha, Madrid, La Rioja and Asturias. There are no notable cases in the Basque Country following the fire in the town of Labastida that broke out on Tuesday, originating from La Rioja. The fire was extinguished in a few hours. Unfortunately, the fires in Ourense, Leon, Zamora and Caceres were still burning on Thursday morning. A new source joined the list on Wednesday, when the regional ministry of Valencia requested help from the military emergency unit (Ume) to fight the fire in Teresa de Cofrentes, caused by a lightning strike. The two main fire hotspots - Ourense (Galicia) and parts of Leon and Zamora - have remained unchanged since the beginning of the week. There are 12 active fires in Ourense, which have resulted in 8,000 hectares burned so far. In Galicia as a whole, there are 13,800 hectares devastated. The dangerous situation forced the suspension of the high-speed AVE train link to Madrid and the evacuation of several villages, as well as that of 50 elderly nursing home residents. More than half of the burned land has been devoured by the fire that originated in Chandrexa de Queixa, whose mayor - 78-year-old Francisco Rodriguez - said that he had not slept for 48 hours. "I don't remember such winds. It was a hurricane and the fires started again, passing rivers and everything," he said on Wednesday. Devastation in Molezuelas Of the 16 active fires in Castilla y Leon - six of them at level 2 of severity - the most devastating is the Molezuelas fire, which has devastated more than 15,000 hectares and has forced the evacuation of more than 50 villages in Zamora and Leon. A total of 9,500 residents have been evacuated to shelters in La Baneza, Astorga, Ponferrada and Tabara. Abejera resident Beatriz Madrid, 44, was sent to Tabara, from where she reported that the experience was like "a horror film". "We didn't have time to evacuate and we were eaten by the fire," she said. The Yeres fire that scorched Las Medulas, another major fire in Rebosa (Palencia) and a new one in La Bastida (Salamanca) are also still active, but the second most important fire is the one in Puercas (Zamora), in which six residents were seriously injured by burns on Tuesday night after they did not leave their village - Abejera - when the Guardia Civil asked them to do so. As a result, two people were admitted to the ICU and four others to burns units. According to the regional government, a 56-year-old woman was admitted with burns on 50% of her body; a 64-year-old man with 35%; a 36 year-old-man with 50%; and a 37 year-old-man wtih 85%. The third point of greatest risk is between the Jerte and Ambroz valleys in Caceres, posed by the fire that started by a lightning in Jarilla. It has already consumed more than 800 hectares and is advancing out of control. The fire has cut off 25 kilometres of the A-66 motorway and the N-630 between Oliva de Plasencia and Casas del Monte: from kilometre 446 (Zarza de Granadilla-Casas del Monte) to 471 (junction with the EX-370, Plasencia). It has also led to a lockdown for the residents of Oliva (292 inhabitants), who, early on Thursday morning, received an urgent ES-Alert to stay in their homes with windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering. Isolated houses in Las Pizarrillas residential area and the guests of the Hostal Restaurante Asturias have been evacuated. Fires under control in La Rioja The good news for the people of Caceres is that the fire that started in the town of Navalmoralejo in Toledo and spread to the province, forcing the evacuation of several villages, has now been stabilised. The same goes for the other fire in Toledo, which forced the confinement of 5,000 residents of Calera because of the smoke on Tuesday. Eight fires in La Rioja have put the emergency services in check. Although they were brought under control on Wednesday, they had destroyed 60 hectares in one day, almost the same figure as in the whole of last year (62.2) and more than in 2023 (53.2). The southerly wind in Asturias is hampering firefighting efforts, which prompted the regional ministry to raise the emergency level to 2 and request the help of the Ume. A dozen outbreaks are still active, including three in Cangas del Narcea and one in Cabrales, where access to the Cares route is still cut off. Independent exploration and production (E&P) company ConocoPhillips Skandinavia has awarded Halliburton a five-year contract to provide comprehensive well stimulation services. The contract, which also includes options for three extensions, is aimed at enhancing well performance and reservoir productivity in the North Sea. Halliburton, a global provider of products and services to the energy industry, will be responsible for transforming Tidewater's ship the North Pomor into a stimulation vessel. This upgrade is designed to offer efficient offshore well stimulation services, incorporating Halliburton's Octiv digital fracturing services to optimise equipment performance and operational efficiency. Halliburton Completion and Production senior vice-president Mark Dawson said: We are pleased to strengthen our long-standing relationship with ConocoPhillips through this important award. This contract win complements our extensive experience in well stimulation and highlights how we execute globally. The combination of our latest technology and our focus on automation and safety is how we maximise value for our customers. ConocoPhillips, operating in 15 countries, integrates various efforts to efficiently discover and produce oil and natural gas. Earlier in the year, ConocoPhillips, under production licence 891, finished drilling a second appraisal well, 6507/5-12 S, at the Slagugle oil discovery in the Norwegian Sea. The Slagugle oil discovery was initially proven in 2020, with preliminary estimates suggesting resources in the range of 30.8 million barrels of oil equivalent (mboe) to 61.6mboe in Triassic reservoir rocks. "Halliburton secures North Sea well stimulation services deal" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. Raquel Merino Malaga Thursday, 14 August 2025, 18:25 Share Renfe has had to reimburse a passenger for the 1,099.89 euros she had to pay for a new plane ticket and extra taxi fares after delays on her train to Madrid caused her to miss her scheduled flight to Cuba. The woman had an Alvia ticket to travel on 26 July 2024 from Santander to Madrid. The train was scheduled to arrive at 11.19am, giving her more than three hours to travel to Barajas Airport. However, this straightforward journey turned into a nightmare. Firstly, the train left Santander 45 minutes late due to a problem with the doors. Later, a breakdown at Torrelavega forced all passengers to switch transport and complete the journey by road to Valladolid, where they boarded another train that finally took them to Madrid. This journey caused the passenger to arrive two and a quarter hours late at Barajas. Check-in for her flight had closed and the plane heading to Cuba was about to take off. Faced with this setback, the passenger bought a new ticket for 1,046.24 euros to travel to Havana with another airline that had a flight departing two hours later. Upon her return, she asked Renfe to recompense her for both the plane ticket and the taxi fares she paid to Barajas, but the railway company only reimbursed her the 59.50 euros that corresponded to her train ticket from Santander to Madrid. The woman sought help from Facua-Consumidores en Accion (an independent organisation in Spain that fights for consumer rights), which referred the case to Cantabria's regional transport arbitration board. This body has finally ruled in favour of the passenger, arguing that the railway company breached "its main obligation", stating that it was a clear example of "lack of business diligence that goes beyond mere culpable conduct". Priscilla Presley on the red carpet for the movie "Priscilla" at the 80th Venice International Film Festival on September 04, 2023 in Venice, Italy. (Photo by Kristy Sparow/Getty Images) Getty Images Priscilla Presleys former business partners have filed a lawsuit seeking more than $50 million in damages, alleging fraud and breach of contract. Brigitte Kruse and Kevin Fialko filed the lawsuit Monday in Los Angeles Superior Court. Among many other allegations, they say Presley used them to financially exploit her name, image and likeness, hiding the fact that she had sold those rights decades earlier. The lawsuit comes just over a year after Presley, the 80-year-old former wife of Elvis Presley, sued Kruse and Fialko, alleging they engaged in elder abuse in a meticulously planned and abhorrent scheme to prey on an older woman by gaining her trust, isolating her from the most important people in her life, and duping her into believing that they would take care of her (personally and financially), while their real goal was to drain her of every last penny she had. Kruse and Fialkos lawyer, Jordan Matthews, said in a statement Wednesday that 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. An email seeking comment from Presleys lawyer was not immediately answered. Kruse and Fialkos lawsuit says Kruse is a well-known auctioneer and Fialko a successful entrepreneur, both of whom dealt in Elvis Presley memorabilia. The duo previously sued Priscilla Presley in Florida. They say she approached them in 2021 looking for help to save her from financial ruin, which they spent thousands of hours working to do. Kruse and Fialko deployed IP, know-how and creative marketing to enhance Priscillas brand, the lawsuit said, and formed several companies to exploit her name, image and likeness. But they say as this was happening, Presley hid from them that she had sold the rights to license her name as part of a $6.5 million deal with Elvis Presley Enterprises in 2005. The lawsuit says that when confronted about the previous agreement, Presley repeatedly denied making it, and later said she had forgotten about it when confronted with evidence of it. The lawsuit also alleges Presley sought to take advantage of the 2023 death of her daughter and Elvis Presleys heir, Lisa Marie Presley, to aggrandize herself and regain a stake in the Elvis estate. Priscilla and Elvis Presley were married from 1967 to 1973, divorcing four years before the death of the rock n roll legend. Kruse and Fialko say they brokered a 2023 deal to end a legal fight over the estate between Priscilla Presley and Lisa Marie Presleys daughter, actor Riley Keough, getting Priscilla Presley $2.4 million. But the lawsuit says she cut them off in violation of contracts soon after, publicly smeared them and later sued them. Priscilla Presleys lawsuit says that Kruse and Fialko fraudulently convinced her they were essential to her recovering financially, and that her former trusted advisers had been cheating her. It said they compelled her to take part in sham companies, lost control of her name, image and likeness, and forced her into a form of indentured servitude. By isolating her and immersing themselves in every aspect of her life, the Defendants were able to fraudulently induce Presley into giving them power of attorney, control over her family and personal trusts, and control over her bank accounts, the lawsuit said. Priscilla became a major public figure when she was a teenager because of her relationship with one of the worlds most famous men. She never left the public eye, but she has regained a special prominence in recent years through Baz Luhrmanns 2022 film Elvis and Sofia Coppolas 2023 film Priscilla, based on her memoir. She is also an actor who starred in the original Naked Gun franchise in the 1980s and 1990s, and she had a cameo in the new reboot. Syracuse, N.Y. Two people were arrested after deputies seized cocaine, eight guns, ammunition, cash and switchblade knives from a Syracuse home Tuesday afternoon, according to the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office. Deputies went to 121 Mariposa St. and executed search warrants as part of an ongoing investigation, Deputy Doug Roser said in a news release. Nora Mishanec, Times Union, Albany, N.Y. (TNS) Two Upstate New York residents bought tickets to Bad Bunnys monthlong concert series in Puerto Rico and traveled to the island this month only to discover that their tickets were fake. The pair filed a formal complaint with state Attorney General Letitia James after they lost hundreds of dollars in a scam that could potentially affect a lot of New Yorkers all across the state, the attorney generals spokesperson Halimah Elmariah said Tuesday. The office is seeking other victims who bought fake or invalid tickets to the rappers 30-date Puerto Rican residency, which has drawn tens of thousands of tourists to the island. Stories of fake tickets ricocheted across social media and filled online forums, where some fans have described being turned away from the sold-out stadium after unknowingly showing up with duplicate or fake tickets. On Tuesday, the attorney general issued a consumer alert warning for the concerts, which are being held at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan through Sept. 14. In a statement, James urged other scam victims to file an online complaint with the details of their experience. Bad Bunny is a musical icon in New York, and scammers are taking advantage of his popularity to sell fake concert tickets, James said. Too often, scammers take advantage of big events to dupe people out of their hard-earned money. The office encouraged concertgoers to buy tickets from a verified source and to avoid paying by cash, wire transfer or prepaid money transfer. Buyers can dispute fake tickets more easily if they pay by credit card or PayPal, the office said. Buyers are warned to be wary of preprinted tickets, which can be easily duplicated. Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, became a worldwide success with his debut studio album in 2018. Loyola-Marymount University professor Dr. Vanessa Diaz called the reggaeton artist the unlikely voice of resistance in Puerto Rico as his rise coincided with widespread political protests and discontent across the Caribbean island of 3 million. 2025 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) . Visit www.timesunion.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Country trio Rascal Flatts will return to Upstate New York in early 2026 as part of the newly announced leg of their Life Is a Highway tour. The group is scheduled to perform at MVP Arena in Albany on January 31 and close the tour at Buffalos KeyBank Center on February 28. These shows are part of a 21-city U.S. tour that kicks off January 15 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Stops include other cities like Nashville, Chicago, Tampa, Newark and Pittsburgh. See the full list of tour dates below. This second leg of Rascal Flatts 25th anniversary reunion extends a run that began in 2025 and saw the band back on stage together for the first time in nearly five years. Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane will join as opening acts on all dates. How to get Rascal Flatts concert tickets Tickets for the Upstate New York dates go on sale Friday, August 22, at 10 a.m. local time, while other dates go on sale earlier, on Friday, August 15, at the same time. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster and secondary marketplaces like Vivid Seats, SeatGeek and StubHub. These platforms may offer below-face-value pricing and greater availability, depending on demand. Discount: First-time Vivid Seats customers can use code SYRACUSE20 for $20 off a $200+ ticket order. More about Rascal Flatts Rascal Flatts comprised of Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney originally formed in 1999 and are known for chart-toppers like Bless the Broken Road, What Hurts the Most, My Wish and their popular cover of Tom Cochranes Life Is a Highway. The band has earned multiple Grammy nominations, CMA and ACM awards and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2011. After disbanding in 2021 following a canceled farewell tour, the group reunited in 2024 for a 25th anniversary celebration. That effort continued into 2025 with the release of Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets, an album featuring reimagined versions of their hits performed alongside artists such as the Jonas Brothers, Backstreet Boys, Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton. The album also includes a new single, I Dare You, the bands first new music in nearly a decade. Listen below: Rascal Flatts Life Is a Highway tour dates Jan. 15 Raleigh, NC Lenovo Center Jan. 16 Knoxville, TN Thompson-Boling Arena Jan. 17 St. Louis, MO Enterprise Center Jan. 22 Milwaukee, WI Fiserv Forum Jan. 23 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center Jan. 24 Omaha, NE CHI Health Center Jan. 29 Elmont, NY UBS Arena* Jan. 30 Newark, NJ Prudential Center* Jan. 31 Albany, NY MVP Arena* Feb. 5 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena Feb. 6 Chicago, IL United Center Feb. 7 Indianapolis, IN Gainbridge Fieldhouse* Feb. 12 Duluth, GA Gas South Arena Feb. 13 Tampa, FL Amalie Arena Feb. 14 Hollywood, FL Hard Rock Live Feb. 19 Biloxi, MS Mississippi Coast Coliseum Feb. 20 Bossier City, LA Brookshire Grocery Arena Feb. 21 Oklahoma City, OK Paycom Center Feb. 26 Lexington, KY Rupp Arena Feb. 27 Pittsburgh, PA PPG Paints Arena Feb. 28 Buffalo, NY KeyBank Center* *Tickets for these dates go on sale August 22 at 10 a.m. local time. All other dates go on sale August 15. Oswego, N.Y. - Oswego city workers have completed a water main break repair and officials expect to lift a boil and conserve water advisory for about 1,700 residents by Friday. Residents have been under the water advisory since Thursday when the water main broke as workers were working to update the pipes. The final repairs were done by 4 p.m. Tuesday, according to Oswego Mayor Robert Corradino. It will take two days to test the water to make sure it is safe, he said. The city has asked residents in the affected area to conserve their water and to boil it before drinking as a safety measure. You dont realize how much not having water affects you until something like this happens, said Betsey Doviak, an Oswego resident who lives in the area under the advisory. She said she has had to boil three good size pots of water three times a day just to do dishes. I have two dogs and a cat and because of this heat, they have increased their daily water intake, she said. I cant fill my pups dog pool because of this and its been extremely hot. Doviak said the advisory has affected everyday activities as simple as brushing her teeth. A drop in water pressure caused by a break can allow untreated water and harmful microbes to enter the supply, officials said. Harmful microbes in the drinking water can cause diarrhea, cramps, nausea, headaches, or other symptoms and may pose a special health risk for infants, some elderly, and people with severely compromised immune systems, they said Residents should boil tap water for at least one minute before drinking, making ice, washing dishes, brushing teeth or preparing food, officials said. Bottled water approved by the state Health Department can also be used. Free water will be available until 7 p.m. Wednesday at the James P. Cullinan Ice Rink, 281 W 5th St. The drive-through distribution site will operate as long as supplies last. Due to potentially lower water pressure, city firefighters have kept a pumper truck carrying water within the affected area while the water main has been under repair, Corradino said. The Oswego Town Fire Department, Minetto Fire Department, Hannibal Fire Department, Mexico Volunteer Fire Department and Fulton Fire Department have been on notice to assist city crews in the event of a fire, Corradino said. 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. On the morning of Aug. 6, a 30-year-old hiker from Quebec fell and dislocated their shoulder while climbing Saddleback Mountain in the Adirondack High Peaks. Their luck turned when an off-duty New York State Department of Envrionmental Conservation forest ranger happened to pass by. The ranger requested assistance from a state police helicopter for a hoist rescue. The helicopter lowered a medic to splint the hikers dislocated shoulder and to prepare them for a hoist. The patient was then flown to the hospital for treatment. Rangers found a 79-year-old with dementia who went missing in the Franklin County town of Brighton on Aug. 6. NYS DEC The following reports are excerpted from DEC: A 79-year-old with dementia went missing in the Franklin County town of Brighton on Aug. 6. The search expanded overnight to include 21 rangers, nine fire departments, five state police units, and six members of Search and Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks. A ranger located the elderly person the next morning in good physical health. An 18-year-old hiker from New Jersey became ill on Aug. 7 near the summit of Mount Marcy. The teen had also run out of water. Rangers intercepted the hiker on the trail out, provided them with electrolytes and food, and escorted them back to Adirondak Loj. On Aug. 7, a landowners brushfire got out of control and burned down two outbuildings near their camp in St. Lawrence County. Rangers worked with local fire departments to put out lingering hot spots. A 70-year-old from Colorado became disoriented on the Freedom Trail in Wappingers Falls on Aug. 8. A ranger found the hiker by walking the trail and calling out the persons name, then assisted them back to the trailhead. Rangers put out a wildfire near Little Long Pond in the St. Regis Canoe Area on Aug. 10. NYS DEC Rangers put out a wildfire near Little Long Pond in the St. Regis Canoe Area on Aug. 10. A 62-year-old from New Jersey suffered from heat exhaustion at Kaaterskill Falls on Aug. 8. Rangers provided electrolytes and food, which enabled the hiker to continue the hike out. On Aug. 9, a 62-year-old hiker from New Jersey experienced weakness and persistent vomiting on Wittenberg Mountain. After summiting, the hiker got half a mile down the mountain before they could no longer continue. Due to the remote location, a state police helicopter airlifted the hiker back to the Catskill Interpretive Center. On the evening of Aug. 10, a hiker in the Sawtooth Mountains transmitted a SOS on a navigation device stating that they were sick, injured, broken, dislocated. Rangers provided care to the hiker and assisted them to the trailhead after midnight. Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors. Contact him at sfeatherstone@syracuse.com. Syracuse, N.Y. -- A state judge has dismissed Liverpool Village Mayor Stacy Finneys lawsuit against her Republican challenger because she filed it too late. The case against Thomas Valerino was dismissed after a brief hearing Wednesday morning, Supreme Court Justice Robert Antonaccis office confirmed. Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. has issued a recall for multiple cheese products. Wegmans Medium Camembert Soft Ripened Cheese and other items using the cheese may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Affected items, sold between July 1 and August 12, 2025, include: Wegmans Medium Camembert Soft Ripened Cheese, 8.8 OZ, UPC: 77890-53515 with best by dates of 7/26/25, 8/12/25, and 8/19/25 Wegmans Assorted Cheese Flight, 1 LB, UPC: 2-77100-00000-0 Wegmans Grilling Camembert with Tapenade & Roasted Tomatoes, 10 OZ, UPC: 2-77297-00000-0 Wegmans Caramel Apple Pecan Topped Brie Cheese, 13 OZ, UPC: 2-77645-00000-3 The recalled products were sold in the cheese department at all Wegmans stores in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington, D.C. The cheese was supplied to Wegmans by Estancia Holdings of Cumming, Georgia. The company initiated the recall after its French supplier notified them that three shipments they received may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria monocytogenes is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems, according to the FDA. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women. No illnesses have been reported. Wegmans says it alerted customers who purchased the recalled products using Shoppers Club, urging them not to consume the food items and return them to the service desk for a full refund. Additional questions may be directed to Wegmans Food Markets at 1-855-934-3663, available daily from 8:00 a.m. through 8:00 p.m. EST. By Summer Zhen HONG KONG (Reuters) -Global hedge funds ramped up risk appetite and added exposure to Japanese equities ahead of the Nikkei's surge to an all-time high as tariff worries eased, while stepping up short positions in South Korea, a Morgan Stanley note showed. Hedge funds boosted gross exposure to Japan "in relatively large size" last week, with long bets outpacing short positions, according to a Morgan Stanley prime brokerage team note sent to clients on Tuesday, following a July pullback in positions. A fund manager survey by BofA showed that within Asia, Japan continues to be the most favoured market by a significant margin. Japan's benchmark Nikkei rose above 43,000 for the first time on Wednesday, with the broader Topix index also hitting an all-time high. Uncertainty over Japanese exports to the United States has eased after Tokyo reached a framework deal with Washington on tariffs in July, helping to push the market higher. The U.S. government last week promised to amend a presidential executive order to remove overlapping tariffs on Japanese goods, Japan's trade negotiator said. Morgan Stanley said hedge funds built positions across Japan's technology and industrial sectors. Shares of Nintendo soared to a historic high this week on robust sales of the Switch 2, while tech firm SoftBank Group also raced to an all-time high on optimism around artificial intelligence. In other Asian markets, hedge funds were buying Taiwan and Australia but increased bearish positions toward Korea last week, Morgan Stanley said. Hedge funds' net allocations to South Korea at the beginning of August sat just under peak levels of the past decade, as investors significantly increased their long and short bets in the market since the country lifted short sale ban, Morgan Stanley said in a separate note. Korea is the best performing Asian market this year, up more than 30%. Flows into Chinese tech giants listed in Hong Kong, remained muted, as hedge funds awaited big tech earnings, Morgan Stanley added. (Reporting by Summer Zhen; Editing by Sonali Paul) US utility and electrical solutions provider Hubbell has signed a definitive agreement to acquire DMC Power, a portfolio company of Golden Gate Capital, for $825m in cash. DMC Power is a provider of connectors and tooling for utility substation and transmission markets. It designs and manufactures connector technology systems essential for high-voltage power infrastructure. The company has more than 350 employees across two manufacturing facilities in Carson, California, and Olive Branch, Mississippi, and multiple distribution facilities throughout North America. For 2026, DMC Power expects revenue of $130m with an earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation forecast of $60m. Hubbell chairman, president and CEO Gerben Bakker stated: We are excited to add another high-growth, high-margin business to Hubbells utility solutions portfolio. As load growth, datacentre buildouts and ageing infrastructure drive highly visible utility substation and transmission investment over the next several years, the acquisition of DMC Power expands Hubbells strong presence in these attractive markets. The transaction is expected to be finalised by the end of 2025 after meeting all necessary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. To finance the acquisition, Hubbell intends to use a combination of cash and debt. Hubbell utility solutions president Greg Gumbs stated: DMC Powers swage connection system [a mechanical connection that joins two components, often pipes or tubes, by fitting one part tightly around the other] offers a strong complement to our existing substation and transmission connector solutions. This acquisition will deepen and broaden Hubbells technology offering with our core customers, enabling fast, reliable buildout of substation infrastructure and datacentre interconnections while further accelerating our near and long-term growth profile. The deal is anticipated to positively impact Hubbells adjusted earnings per share from 2026. DMC Power CEO Tony Ward stated: I want to extend my thanks to our dedicated employees and customers whose commitment has driven DMCs success. As the pioneers behind swage technology for utilities, we are proud to have developed a world-class solution that is transforming the industry. By joining forces with Hubbell, we are confident that swage will accelerate its industry adoption and that our customers will continue to receive the high-quality service and solutions they have come to expect from DMC. Financial advisory services for Hubbell were provided by Stephens, with legal counsel provided by Holland & Knight. Doonite BHPian Join Date: Feb 2021 Location: Dehradun/Sydney Posts: 258 Thanked: 1,078 Times Re: Supreme Court Order: Stray dogs in Delhi NCR to be moved to shelters Quote: NomadSK Originally Posted by There's a saying empty vessel makes more noise. The Supreme Courts order is a bold attempt to address a genuine problem, but such boldness without feasibility could end up being wishful thinking and a piped dream. Send some MCD guys to Georgia and see how they run and manage the system, if there's a will and intent at all to solve any social issue. However, sending any government official to Georgia would have the effect of a paid vacation with no experience or knowledge gained . I think we have the resources in our country to educate people, but you cannot eliminate human greed, so there's that. My experience living in Sydney for the better part of last 3 years using public transport services for almost everything was mixed. I'll try to explain: Using public transport meant walking large distances in between bus and train stations at odd times of the day. There are no stray dogs, so I have never had to look down while walking to see if I would step in dog poo and ruin my sneakers. I genuinely mean never. The sidewalks and all the grassy terrain never had any dog poo at all because even dog owners are lawfully bound to pick up after their dogs and dump it in the trash. And yes, most, if not all people do follow that law/policy/practice. Sydney transport is actually dog poo is another matter of discussion There were no worries of getting chased by a pack of dogs early in the morning or late at night because of the aforementioned reason. I have been bitten twice in my childhood and each time, I had to go through that awful process of 10+ injections. However, it was not the fault of the animal, but the owners who did a god awful job of training their pets. There are stray cats, but they don't bother anyone. They might wreak havoc on the population of animals below them in the food chain (I can't remember the exact word), but no issues with cat poo or cat bites etc. In addition, there are some birds called 'bin chickens' with long beaks who just hunt for food from the garbage bins, but again, never bother humans in any way. I have attached some fluffy cat pictures who I used to see regularly on my walking path. In essence, I love dogs and other animals, but having lived a life where you can walk on roads or sidewalks freely and roll around in the grass with no stress of getting smeared by dog poo, concerning statistics of dog bites, I can see the merit of decision by the Supreme Court. However, in India, everything is done in such a haphazard and inhumane manner that even if you want to agree with the decision, you know how the judgement will be carried out on the ground and there's no other choice than to oppose it. A side note and sad observation, I would also hope that people look into themselves to celebrate the culling/killing of helpless animals to whom the earth belongs as much it does to us. We all know there's no place to relocate these animals and it will most certainly lead to slaughter of the said animals. I have already seen a couple of videos on social media of how the dogs are literally being thrown in the back of vans/trucks. One can argue the merits and demerits of any judgement or which side of the argument they fall on, but to actively cheer the slaughter of any animal is just tragic... It's really heartwarming to hear your experience of interacting with the locals and stray animals in Georgia. Just for that reason, it goes very high in the list of places I would love to visit.However, sending any government official to Georgia would have the effect of a paid vacation with no experience or knowledge gained. I think we have the resources in our country to educate people, but you cannot eliminate human greed, so there's that.My experience living in Sydney for the better part of last 3 years using public transport services for almost everything was mixed.I'll try to explain:Using public transport meant walking large distances in between bus and train stations at odd times of the day. There are no stray dogs, so I have never had to look down while walking to see if I would step in dog poo and ruin my sneakers. I genuinely mean never. The sidewalks and all the grassy terrain never had any dog poo at all because even dog owners are lawfully bound to pick up after their dogs and dump it in the trash. And yes, most, if not all people do follow that law/policy/practice. Sydney transport is actually dog poo is another matter of discussionThere were no worries of getting chased by a pack of dogs early in the morning or late at night because of the aforementioned reason. I have been bitten twice in my childhood and each time, I had to go through that awful process of 10+ injections. However, it was not the fault of the animal, but the owners who did a god awful job of training their pets.There are stray cats, but they don't bother anyone. They might wreak havoc on the population of animals below them in the food chain (I can't remember the exact word), but no issues with cat poo or cat bites etc. In addition, there are some birds called 'bin chickens' with long beaks who just hunt for food from the garbage bins, but again, never bother humans in any way. I have attached some fluffy cat pictures who I used to see regularly on my walking path.In essence, I love dogs and other animals, but having lived a life where you can walk on roads or sidewalks freely and roll around in the grass with no stress of getting smeared by dog poo, concerning statistics of dog bites, I can see the merit of decision by the Supreme Court. However, in India, everything is done in such a haphazard and inhumane manner that even if you want to agree with the decision, you know how the judgement will be carried out on the ground and there's no other choice than to oppose it.I would also hope that people look into themselves to celebrate the culling/killing of helpless animals to whom the earth belongs as much it does to us. We all know there's no place to relocate these animals and it will most certainly lead to slaughter of the said animals. I have already seen a couple of videos on social media of how the dogs are literally being thrown in the back of vans/trucks.One can argue the merits and demerits of any judgement or which side of the argument they fall on, but to actively cheer the slaughter of any animal is just tragic... Last edited by Doonite : 13th August 2025 at 18:42 . Smart hospitality solutions provider Hudini has announced a strategic partnership with IT support company Nexevo Solutions, with the aim of providing comprehensive hospitality technology solutions to customers across the UK and Europe. This collaboration is set to deliver a fully integrated technology ecosystem, enhancing the guest experience through a combination of Hudini's software and Nexevo's hardware offerings. The partnership marks an important development in Hudini's expansion strategy within the UK and European markets. By leveraging Nexevo's hardware portfolio, Hudini can now offer a complete technology package that includes its proprietary guest experience software alongside smart TVs, interactive kiosks, and tablets. This integration ensures that Hudini's customers benefit from a seamless, end-to-end solution. Hudini CEO and founder Prince Thampi said: "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. Through this partnership, Hudini's customers will gain access to streamlined procurement processes, faster deployment of technology, localised support, and a unified service experience, according to the companys press release. In addition, Nexevo will act as a reseller for Hudini's innovative guest engagement software to introduce Hudini's solutions to Nexevo's client network. Nexevo CEO and founder Ben Donaldson said: "By joining forces with Hudini, were bringing powerful digital experiences to our clients with a blend of best-in-class hardware and innovative guest experience software. "Together, were empowering hospitality businesses to deliver smarter, more connected experiences that meet the demands of todays digital-first guests." "Hudini and Nexevo partner on hospitality tech solutions" was originally created and published by Hotel Management Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The American company credited with revolutionizing amateur photography is warning it could go out of business after more than 130 years. The Rochester, New York-based Eastman Kodak Co. offered a bleak picture of its financials in earnings reports and filings, tracking a second quarter loss and sending shares tumbling in early trading Tuesday, Aug. 12. The iconic brand said in Monday, Aug. 11 government filings that there is "substantial doubt" about the companys ability to continue, as it faces more than $470 million in debt and slashes its pension plan in an attempt to remain afloat. A Kodak sign hang during a press preview at the IFA consumer electronics trade fair on September 01, 2022 in Berlin, Germany. "Kodak has debt coming due within twelve 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 said in its filings to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Kodak became one of the most iconic American companies in the late 19th century with the introducton of the Kodak #1 camera in 1888, credited with making photography accessible to the everyday person. Though it rose to prominence for its film photography products, it struggled to adapt to the changing industry as digital imaging took over, with the company filing for bankruptcy in 2012. In recent years, it has pursued specialty chemicals and pharmaceuticals. This camera revolutionized photography: Whatever happened to the Kodak Instamatic? Tariffs had no 'material impact' In its most recent earnings report, Kodak said its consolidated revenues were $263 million at the end of the quarter on June 30, a decrease of $4 million since the same period last year. Gross profit decreased 12% compared to last year's second quarter end, Kodak disclosed, and its cash balance sits at $155 million, marking a loss of just under 23% since the end of December. Kodak's Printomatic instaprint cameras are displayed at the Kodak booth at the world's largest annual consumer technology trade show, CES, on January 10, 2018 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Jim Continenza, Kodaks Executive Chairman and CEO, said tariffs have not had a "material impact" on its businesses, noting the domestic production of many of its products such as printing plates, film, inkjet presses and inks and pharmaceutical ingredients. What's next for Kodak? Kodak's chief financial officer David Bullwinkle said in the company's Aug. 11 statement it plans to focus on its advanced chemicals and materials sector moving forward, and said the cut to its retirement program is going toward paying down its debt. He said the company expects to "have a clear understanding" by Friday, Aug. 15 of how it will meet its debt obligations. "For the second half of the year, we will continue to focus on reducing costs today and converting our investments into long-term growth," Bullwinkle said. Russia bans press freedom group Reporters Without Borders Moscow, Aug 14 (AFP) Aug 14, 2025 Russia has put Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on its list of "undesirable" organisations, effectively banning the media watchdog from operating in the country, Moscow's justice ministry register showed Thursday. Under a controversial law passed in 2015, but rarely used before its offensive on Ukraine, Russia can ban overseas organisations deemed a threat to national security. Being branded as "undesirable" criminalises the group and puts its staff at risk of prosecution. The Kremlin has escalated its decade-long clampdown on independent media after sending troops to Ukraine in 2022, imposing sweeping censorship laws that effectively ban criticism of the army. RSF, based in France, regularly denounces attacks on freedom of expression and helps persecuted journalists. Only last month, a Russian court jailed a journalist and former volunteer for the late opposition leader Alexey Navalny -- whose organisations have been declared "extremist" in Russia -- for 12 years. Reporters Without Borders described her imprisonment as a "symbol of the Kremlin's repression of independent voices" and called for her release, as for all journalists in Russian detention. The list of "undesirable" entities maintained by the justice ministry targets around 250 organisations now, including Amnesty International, Greenpeace, and Yale University. It also features groups controlled by people long reviled by Russian authorities, including Hungarian-born billionaire George Soros and Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a Russian tycoon who opposed President Vladimir Putin. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Succession actor Brian Cox has declared that the historical Scottish epic Braveheart, in which he starred, is a lie built on inaccuracies. Mel Gibson starred in and directed the 1995 movie, which won five Oscars, including Best Picture, but for a proud Scotsman like Cox, the film does not do the real-life story justice. The 79-year-old, who played Argyle Wallace, the uncle of Mel Gibsons main character William Wallace, in particular took aim at the films inclusion of kilts, stating: It doesnt make any sense. Speaking to film critic Mark Kermode at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, Cox revealed that he had initially agreed to star in another historical Scottish film, Rob Roy, which was being made at the same time. However, he agreed to appear in Braveheart following repeated requests from Gibson. Cox played Argylle, even though he told Gibson he wasnt right for the role. I said, well, there is a very good part at the beginning, a guy called Argyle but Im wrong for him because he should be cadaverous and thin. And he [Gibson] said: No, you can play it. open image in gallery Brian Cox said that he didnt want to wear a kilt in the film ( AP ) Cox, who is from Dundee, also had issues with characters wearing kilts in the film, which is set in the late 13 century. History suggests that kilts werent worn in Scotland until the 16th century. I just didnt want to be in a kilt. Of course they didnt have kilts in those days but they had to have kilts [in the film] because that is what it is about, Cox added. The actor agreed with Kermode that Braveheart is tosh-like and a f***ing lie, the whole thing. Cox, though, did have some good things to say about working with Gibson, complimenting the star on how he managed others on the set. He is great. Mel is wonderful to work with. He gets a bad rap but actually he is a really good man. I saw him deal with some lads [on the film] who were alcoholically inclined and he used to deal with them absolutely beautifully. Meanwhile, Gibson recently said that making Braveheart was a joy. Reflecting on making the epic, the 69-year-old became emotional at a musical performance of movie songs in Ireland. Speaking after the score from the 1995 film was played by an orchestra in a tent in Trim, Co Meath, Gibson told the audience that composer James Horner was inspired by Celtic music. open image in gallery Mel Gibson in Braveheart ( 20th Century Fox ) This film was a joy to make, and my mother was born in Longford so I was raised on this kind of music myself, so it was a real treat for me to explore this culture and the sound of it, he said. In the Braveheart score, you can hear bits and pieces of old tunes that he borrowed from. He drew from a very rich source of music and poetry thats part of this country, as well as Scotland. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Im asking here for the bare minimum, begs the most frustrated client of professional matchmaker Lucy (Dakota Johnson). I dont want to settle. Her bare minimum, by the way, is a salary of 150K or above, a height of six feet or above, and a full head of hair. Materialists, then, is a romcom made for late-stage capitalism, populated by people who seek love like theyre negotiating the Treaty of Versailles. If you dont think theyre real (one man insists hell only date a 20 BMI or under), then you just havent met them yet. Director Celine Song, as in her debut Past Lives (2023), draws here from real experience. She worked briefly in the matchmaking field, and so takes a knowledgeable and dexterous approach to its operations. Its a film that works beautifully as an intellectual exercise. Ironically, its in the love stuff where it starts to falter. The films tone has proven somewhat divisive with audiences and critics (it was released back in June in the US). At times, it borders on farce, like when Lucy and a colleague feverishly discuss the benefits of height surgery, in which the bones are broken and forcibly separated (six inches can double a mans value on the market!). Then, suddenly, a client commits a horrific act, and the film tumbles down a ravine of fear and uncertainty. But isnt that exactly what dating feels like now? A sometimes funny, petty, absurd, cruel, and dangerous pursuit, where the whittling down of a person to algorithmic data becomes yet another symptom of the capitalist disease. You could play a disastrously messy drinking game by taking a shot any time someone is referred to in terms of their value, or someone admits theyre only in a relationship because it makes them feel valuable. Its how Lucy calms down a bride with the jitters (her soon-to-be-husband makes her sister jealous), and how she initially describes her attraction to Harry: a man who is wealthy and tall and conveniently played by current go-to Hollywood hunk, Pedro Pascal. He is, in her words, a unicorn. The actor plays him with the kind of boundless graciousness thats made him so popular off screen. He shakes hands with every guest at a party and turns up to a date with an entire planter of roses. Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal in Materialists ( A24 ) And yet, the inevitable point of Materialists is that the maths dont hold up in the face of Lucys ex, John (Chris Evans). Hes a struggling actor whos lived in the same crusty flat for over a decade, with roommates who leave used condoms on the kitchen floor. That a woman might abandon the smart and comfortable for the reckless, instinctual pursuit of love is the bread-and-butter of the romcom. And yet its a formula that requires chemistry like we do oxygen, and Johnson and Evans dont click in the same way as, say, Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams in The Notebook. They fit their roles fine: her cool girl languor has always been appealing, and hes the textbook charismatic grouch. But when Song made her heroine in Past Lives Greta Lees Nora a relative enigma, it suited the characters tumultuous sense of identity. Here it just makes it hard to understand what Lucy and John actually talk about outside of money and relationships. Disappointingly, Materialists trusts that well simply do the maths and all come up with the same answer. Dir: Celine Song. Starring: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, Pedro Pascal, Zoe Winters, Marin Ireland. Cert 15, 117 minutes. Materialists is in cinemas Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Photographer Martyn Goddard has recalled the moment that Blondie star Debbie Harry encountered Alice Coopers pet snake, Julius Squeezer. At the time, he was accompanying the band on their return to New York in 1978, widely regarded as their breakthrough year as they released their third studio album, Parallel Lines. During the trip, Blondie were invited to open for Cooper in Philadelphia. So we all got on this tour bus and went down there and had really quite a fun day, Goddard told The Independent. Once the band were in the green room, Coopers snake minder came in with his pet boa constrictor, who was often seen draped around the rockers neck during gigs. Its not often you find a snake in the green room before you go onstage, Goddard said. It didn't seem to phase Debbie, though. She really quite enjoyed being wrapped up by the snake. He managed to capture the moment as one of a number of candid shots that showed the band relaxing outside the studio or backstage. open image in gallery Blondie backstage at the Spectrum Stadium in Philadelphia, where they were booked as the support act for Alice Cooper, 2 July 1978 ( Courtesy of Martyn Goddard ) The image is included in a new exhibition, Blondie in Camera 1978, which opens at the Barbican Music Library in London from 14 August until 5 January 2026. Goddard, known for capturing some of the biggest names on the New Wave scene of the Seventies and Eighties from The Jam to Blondie and The Cure selected 50 prints shot during four major assignments in New York of the band in concert, backstage, in the studio and during photo sessions. open image in gallery Debbie Harry, Chris Stein and Nigel Harrison walking around New York, 1978 ( Courtesy of Martyn Goddard ) A number of the images have also been published in a new book, Blondie in Camera 1978, which features contributions from Harry and the bands longtime publicist, Alan Edwards. That was the year that Blondie basically transformed from New York punk to stadium rockers, Goddard said. I just happened to be there, and during lockdown I realised I had all [these pictures] that people wouldnt necessarily have seen. open image in gallery Members of Blondie relaxing at the Gramercy Park Hotel, New York, 1979 ( Courtesy of Martyn Goddard ) His first assignment involving the band was for The Telegraphs Sunday magazine. Goddard, then 27, had to pay his own airfare but ended up staying in the same hotel as Harry and her bandmate Chris Stein, with whom she was in a relationship at the time. open image in gallery Debbie Harry of Blondie on a tour bus travelling from New York to Philadelphia, where the band were booked to support Alice Cooper ( Courtesy of Martyn Goddard ) It was the famous Gramercy Park Hotel, which was an amazing, charming place, sort of art deco, and it was one of the reasons that the shoot with Debbie went so well, because it was slightly shabby but it had these wonderful places like the old cocktail bar, the roof terrace a lot of character, he remembered. I went there and basically joined Blondie for a week. And when I'd done all these formal pictures, I just hung around and took [the more candid shots] at the Palladium and at all these parties. He recalled one where they ended up hanging out with Andy Warhol at Studio 54: It was a fantastic experience. open image in gallery Blondie performing at New York's Palladium Theatre, 1978 ( Courtesy of Martyn Goddard ) He suggested the band had maintained their hold on pop culture all these years in part thanks to Harrys commitment: Shes tangled herself so brilliantly over that entire time, and has been totally committed to her singing and the band. Goddard also praised her for being a natural in front of the lens: You pressed the button and she just transformed into a model, you didnt really need to direct her, he said. She came up with the most wonderful poses. The Blondie in Camera 1978 exhibition is open at the Barbican Music Library now. Martyn Goddards book, Blondie in Camera 1978 is out now from ACC Art Books. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Daryl Hall and John Oates, the legendary musical duo, have privately settled a long-running dispute over a Hall & Oates business partnership through arbitration, according to a court filing on Monday. The resolution brings a quiet end to a rift that became public following a 2023 lawsuit filed by Hall against Oates. In Monday's status report, Hall's attorneys confirmed the case received a final judgment in arbitration, filing a proposed order for Nashville Chancellor Russell Perkins to dismiss it. Perkins had requested an update in mid-July, the last public filing having been in December 2023. Details of the arbitration outcome remain undisclosed, and it is unclear when the process was finalised. Hall & Oates, celebrated for over 50 of music together, produced numerous hits including "Maneater", "Rich Girl", "Kiss on My List", and "I Cant Go for That (No Can Do)". open image in gallery Daryl Hall, left, and John Oates attend the 56th annual BMI Pop Awards at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on 20 May 2008 in Beverly Hills, California ( Getty Images ) Robb Harvey, an attorney representing Hall, declined to comment on the resolution. Representatives for Oates did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In 2023 filings in the case, Hall accused Oates of blindsiding and betraying him, saying their relationship and his trust in Oates have deteriorated. Oates replied that he was deeply hurt that Hall was making inflammatory, outlandish, and inaccurate statements about him. The judge had paused the sale of Oates stake in Whole Oats Enterprises LLP to Primary Wave IP Investment Management LLC. open image in gallery Daryl Hall, left, and John Oates perform in Arizona in 2017 ( Invision/AP ) Whole Oats includes valuable Hall & Oates materials such as trademarks, personal name and likeness rights, record royalty income and website and social media assets, a court declaration says. The dispute went public in November 2023, when Hall filed the lawsuit asking the judge to stop the sale by Oates so private arbitration could begin. Hall gave a scathing account of their relationship in early November 2023 during arbitration, and it was made public later in the month in the lawsuit. It alleged that Oates and his team engaged in the ultimate partnership betrayal by pushing to sell his share while telling Halls associates that he wanted to maintain his ownership. In his own declaration, Oates expressed disappointment with his longtime partners words, saying Halls accusations that Oates went behind his back and breached their agreement are not true. open image in gallery Hall of Fame Inductees John Oates, left, and Daryl Hall appear in the press room at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in 2014 in New York ( Invision/AP ) Oates declined to go into specifics, saying he was obligated to keep details private, even if Hall did not. In 2024, Oates said that he had had no communication with Hall and declined to discuss the legal proceedings. He did not see a Hall & Oates reunion in his future. I personally dont see it happening. Its not in my plans at all. You can ask Daryl Hall what he thinks. But for me personally, no, he says. The Times asked Hall in February if the ship had sailed on mending the pair's relationship. That ship has gone to the bottom of the ocean, Hall told the news outlet. Ive had a lot of surprises in my life, disappointments, betrayals, so Im kind of used to it. The lawsuit says the engine manufacturers, along with the EMA, sought clarification from CARB regarding OEMs legal obligations under the Clean Truck Partnership and CARBs underlying emission standards,noting that the Clean Truck Partnerships requirements were invalid for several reasons, including that they were preempted under the Clean Air Act. CARB has not responded to that request, according to the lawsuit. On the other side is the federal government, which the lawsuit says sent a letter August 7 to a Daimler executive, Sean Waters, telling him that signatories to the CTP must cease and desist your compliance with both the Clean Truck Partnership and its preempted state vehicle emissions regulations. The letter was sent by Adam R.F. Gustafson, acting assistant attorney general of the Environmental and Natural Resources Division of the Department of Justice, and is an attachment in the engine manufacturers lawsuit. On one side of the squeeze is California, insisting that the federal action to overturn the waivers is illegal and that the engine manufacturers must abide by the rules of the CTP. (California has filed suit against the federal action , with its key argument being that EPA waivers are not subject to the Congressional Review Act that Congress used to overturn them. The engine manufacturers lawsuit says there is a conference on the California suit September 16 and that nothing else has occurred with it since the state filed the suit. ) The road to that squeeze began when the companies trade group, the Engine Manufacturers Association (EMA), signed the Clean Truck Partnership (CTP) in 2023 that gave the manufacturers more leeway to meet the ACT requirements in exchange for greater alignment between California and EPA rules. That deal also included restrictions on what the engine manufacturers could do to challenge the ACT going forward. In the summary of that position, the manufacturers spell out the squeeze that many people in the industry saw coming as soon as the federal government, following this past springs Congressional action and a Presidential approval of that action , invalidated the waiver granted by the Environmental Protection Agency to CARB that allowed the ACT and other California regulations to proceed. In a lawsuit filed Monday in the U.S District Court for the Eastern District of California, Daimler Truck ( OTC: DTRUY ), PACCAR (NASDAQ: PCAR) , Volvo Group North America and International Motors (owned by Volkswagen), the companies are asking the court to immediately halt the California Air Resources Board (CARB) from enforcing the ACT against them, using the impossible term to describe their predicament. Truck manufacturers are in an impossible position under the California Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) mandate, and several of them have asked a federal court to get them out of it. Story Continues California seen as threatening action But the lawsuit points to a Manufacturers Advisory Correspondence issued by CARB on May 23 that says the engine makers must continue to follow CARBs preempted standards, including the certification requirement, to ensure lawful sales of vehicles and engines in California. That was followed by an executive order from Gov. Newsom that, the lawsuit says, threatened the manufacturers with unfavorable regulatory treatment, as well as exclusion from government purchase and incentive programs, if the companies didnt adhere to the ACT mandates. CARB has made some changes in the ACT since the preemption. In a July 24 press release that announced the changes, CARB chair Liane Randolph was quoted as saying that they provided flexibility. But she also referred to commitments made in the Clean Truck Partnership. EMA signaled last month, in a comment to CARB during the process that led to the changes, that it was unhappy with the situation it faced. It was the first public declaration of its views since the federal action set the grounds for the current dispute. Given the pushes coming at them from two sides, according to the lawsuit, 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 OEMswho simply seek to sell heavy-duty trucks in compliance with the lawunable to plan with the necessary certainty and clarity where their products need to be certified for sale and by which regulatory authority. But it is only one side of the divide that is the target of the lawsuit: California. California has taken the position that Congresss waiver-disapproval resolutions were reckless, politically motivated, and illegal attacks on California (citing wording in a Newsom press release) and has made clear that it will continue to attempt to enforce the requirements included in Advanced Clean Trucks, Omnibus Low NOx and Advanced Clean Cars II. For the trucking industry, a softening of the California Omnibus Low NOx rule and aligning it with federal law was a key part of the deal. The federal waivers that allowed the ACT to proceed also permitted the Omnibus NOX rule (which tightened rules on emissions of nitrogen oxide) and the Advanced Clean Cars II rule, which affects passenger vehicles. CTP didnt impact ZEV rules One thing that didnt change under the CTP: the ACT schedule for truck manufacturers to sell an increasing percentage of zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) into the state. But the lawsuit notes that another conundrum the engine manufacturers have is that the matching mandate to buy ZEVs that was built into the now largely defunct Advanced Clean Fleets rule has disappeared, with CARB killing the rule when it didnt think it was getting an EPA waiver for it. In other words, CARB has removed the buy-side requirement corresponding to the sales mandates imposed on manufacturers by Advanced Clean Trucks, thereby making manufacturer compliance with Advanced Clean Trucks even more challenging, the lawsuit says. The engine manufacturers urgently need clarity regarding the law and emission standards that apply to its vehicles and engines for model year 2026, the suit says. To adequately plan product production and allocation, Plaintiff OEMs must know which vehicles they are authorized to sell, and where, well in advance of the start of a model year on January 1. The legal charges in the lawsuit are that California, with the waivers gone, is violating the preemption provisions of the Clean Air Act that prohibit a stateabsent a waiverfrom creating stricter standards than in the act. It also challenges a provision in the CTPwhich the EMA signedthat prohibited challenges to steps CARB might have taken in connection with the partnership.Government officials cannot, without violating the First Amendment, require their citizens to follow unlawful standards, the suit says. The suit also says the CTP violates various California state regulations. The manufacturers are seeking court injunctions that would bar the state from enforcing or attempting to enforce not only the ACT but other regulations that the state had approved and soughtand in most casesreceived a waiver from the EPA. That includes the Advanced Clean Fleets rule, which was withdrawn before a waiver decision was made by EPA. A spokeswoman for CARB declined comment, citing the pending litigation. Groups make their voices heard But other comments came rapidly. The Clean Freight Coalition is a group of carriers and other trucking related businesses that has mostly pushed back against some emission technologies while backing others. Its executive director (and former FMCSA administrator) Jim Mullen said the group commends the truck OEMs for bringing this lawsuit against CARB. It is an absolute disgrace that this action is necessary. CARB is holding the trucking industry hostage by its refusal to acknowledge the obvious: that the actions by Congress and the President nullified the CTP. On the other side of the divide, Craig Segall, former deputy executive officer and assistant CARB chief counsel, asked whether the manufacturers have any idea how to sell their own products? Imagine being a truck company, working for years towards an agreement with the worlds fourth largest economy that helps you sell electric trucks and finance infrastructure despite federal uncertainty and then burning your regulators and destroying shareholder value by blowing up that agreement, he said in a prepared statement. Red flags abound. More articles by John Kingston First legal steps taken, this time by WSTA, to untangle the legal knot of the Clean Truck Partnership In brief comments, Trimble CEO introduces new product for matching capacity with shippers Truck sales in the second quarter might have been the worst performing metric of all The post Impossible position cited by truck manufacturers in lawsuit against California appeared first on FreightWaves. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Taylor Swift has revealed that her her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, will be released on October 3. The pop superstar, 35, appeared Wednesday night on New Heights, the podcast her boyfriend Travis Kelce co-hosts with his brother, Jason. More than 1.3m viewers tuned in to watch the YouTube version of the podcast which ran for almost an hour and 45 minutes. During the wide-ranging conversation Swift discussed her relationship with Kelce and her much-anticipated new album, explaining that the 12 songs were inspired by her experiences during her record-breaking Eras Tour. She also revealed that the album would feature a collaboration with fellow pop star Sabrina Carpenter. This album is about what was going on behind the scenes in my inner life during this tour, which was so exuberant and electric and and vibrant, she said. It just comes from like the most infectiously joyful, wild, dramatic place I was in in my life. That effervescence has come through on this record, and like, as [Kelce] said... bangers. She added that the album will stand alone without bonus tracks, confirming: There's no other songs coming. It's not like The Tortured Poets Department where I was like: Here's a data dump of everything I thought or felt in two or three years. Heres 31 songs. This is 12, she said. There's not a 13th, there's not a 14th, there's not other ones coming. Swifts decision comes after she received some criticism for the lengthy tracklists of recent albums such as last years The Tortured Poets Department, the anthology edition of which ran for 35 songs, including four acoustic versions. open image in gallery The cover of Taylor Swift's 12th album 'The Life of a Showgirl' ( Republic Records ) This is the record I've been wanting to make for a very long time, the Grammy winner said. Every single song is on this album for hundreds of reasons, you know? You couldn't take one out and it be the same album. You couldn't add one and it be the same album. It's just right. That focus and that kind of discipline with creating an album, and keeping the bar really high is something I've been wanting to do for a very long time, she said. Travis called the album upbeat, noting its difference in tone to Tortured Poets. Life is more upbeat, Swift responded, smiling at him. Swift noted that she tends to write lots and lots of music, which could make it tempting to try and include as much as possible on a record. But oftentimes... I wanted to do an album that was so focused on quality and on the theme, and everything fitting together like a perfect puzzle, that these 12 songs for my 12th album, I feel like we achieved that, and Im really happy about that. The Tortured Poets Department smashed two streaming records on Spotify, achieving 300 million plays in one day and one billion over five days, and also made her the first artist in history to secure the top 14 spots on the Billboard Hot 100. She holds the record for most No 1 albums in the US by a female artist in history, and is also the first artist ever to have won the Grammy for Album of the Year four times. Earlier in the episode, Swift reflected on how Travis wooed her, joking: This podcast got me a boyfriend, ever since Travis decided to use it as his personal dating app about two years ago. She added that when they first spoke, she realized he's the good kind of crazy. Travis famously sang Swifts praises on his podcast before the pair met, while admitting he was disappointed they hadnt met when he attended one of her concerts. She said the clip, which went viral, felt almost like he was standing outside of my apartment, holding a boom box saying, 'I want to go on a date with you'. This was exactly the moment she had been writing songs about, wanting to happen to me since I was a teenager, she said. I knew that he wasn't crazy the first couple of times that we talked, she continued. I was just like, he's truly getting to know me in a way that's very natural, very pure, very normal. Just the way that he could make me laugh so immediately about normal things. Travis is a vibe booster in everyone's life that he's in. He's like a human exclamation point. open image in gallery Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift appearing together on the New Heights podcast ( New Heights ) The track list for The Life of a Showgirl is as follows: The Fate of Ophelia Elizabeth Taylor Opalite Father Figure Eldest Daughter Ruin the Friendship Actually Romantic Wi$h Li$t Wood Cancelled! Honey The Life of a Showgirl (featuring Sabrina Carpenter) The album was produced by Swift with Max Martin and Shellback, with whom Swift has previously collaborated on albums including 2012s Red, 2014s 1989 and 2017s Reputation. She described Swedish pop svengali Martin as her mentor and noted how he and Shellback had helped craft some of her biggest hits, from We Are Never Getting Back Together, 22, Shake It Off, Blank Space, Style and Delicate. Weve made songs that I am so proud of, and so basically weve never actually made an album before where its just the three of us, she said. It felt like catching lightning in a bottle, honestly. She revealed that Martin attended one of her Eras shows in Stockholm where she told him she wanted to make an album that made her as proud as the Eras tour, and for the same reasons. He was like, Do you understand what kind of pressure that is, she recalled, laughing. Swift first announced her new record in a preview clip from the episode posted earlier this week. The album is now available for pre-order and will be shipped before October 13, according to Swifts website. The multi Grammy-winning pop stars previous album was The Tortured Poets Department, released in 2024. In the same year, she ended her Eras Tour, which sold tickets worth an estimated $2.2 billion (1.6bn) in its nearly two-year run, making it the highest-grossing tour of all time for two years in a row. She has not yet mentioned whether she plans to tour the new album. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Antony Starr has bid an emotional farewell to his complicated The Boys character Homelander after the superhero satire wrapped production on its final season. The 49-year-old has played the twisted superhero since the series debuted in 2019. The fifth and final season is expected to arrive on Amazon Prime next year. Creator and showrunner Eric Kripke confirmed last month that filming has already wrapped. In a lengthy post on Instagram, Starr paid tribute to his time on the insane show, known for its gore and satirical bite. Difficult (for me) to put into words what an incredible ride this has been, wrote Starr. How much life and growth has occurred. How amazing the team is. Its truly been the highlight of my career. When we began, I had no idea what was coming. He continued: This juggernaut left the station and never stopped. Except for that Covid moment. Oh and the strikes. That was a thing too. But apart from those two times, it never stopped, boldly making its mark on the television landscape. Theres nothing else like it. It lives in its own lane. And at the end of the shoot, all there really is to say is- thank you. The incredible Canadian crew. The amazing production team. The insanely talented cast. The people at Amazon and Sony that took a chance on this insane thing(and made the great choice in casting me, tyyy) and all the other people that contributed in some way, big or small, to this beautiful, complex, warped, delicious show. Antony Starr as Homelander in The Boys ( Amazon Prime Video ) I love this show. And I love this character. Truly. I will dearly miss heading to work, knowing what we were aiming for but never knowing where we would find ourselves by the end of the day only that we would have fun and it would be creatively rewarding in the extreme. This complicated character allowed the space and range to discover and push boundaries in a way I never expected and I will always be grateful for this experience. And of course huge gratitude to my co-parent with this twisted gem of a character - [Eric Kripke] . We created a monster, sir. And I will miss him, and you. Til we roll out the last season. When Ill see you. But this creative chapter is closed , and Ill miss it, brother. And finally - massive thank you to the fans. You are the life blood. Without you, we dont get to do this. And our fans are second to none. Mad love to you and deepest respect for your taste. Last year, Starr rejected the suggestion that his maniacal character is a satirical take on Donald Trump, calling the comparisons low-hanging fruit. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A second MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the new series following a scandal involving fired hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode. The cookery shows production company, Banijay UK said that the unnamed contestant asked to be removed after 45 complaints about the behaviour of Wallace and one against Torode were upheld. One other contributor decided that, given recent events, they would like not to be included, Banijay UK said. We have, of course, accepted their wishes and edited them out of the show." BBC News reports that the contestant has asked not to be identified and that the individual will not appear in the show whatsoever. The Independent has contacted the BBC for comment. The contestant is the second person who has been edited out of the current series of the show, which was mostly filmed before the allegations against Wallace emerged in November 2024. open image in gallery Fired hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace on the new series of MasterChef ( BBC ) Aspiring chef Sarah Shafi asked to be removed from the new series amid fears the show would send the wrong message to women. Although Shafi had initially rejected an offer by Banijay to edit her out of the episode in which she appears, she later reversed her decision after it was announced that the BBC would be airing the show following weeks of uncertainty. Speaking to The Independent, Greek chef Irini Tzortzoglou, who won MasterChef in 2019, supported the decision to air the controversial episodes. If I had gone through all that the highs and lows then somebody said to me, Well, actually, we may not show the three months of your life when you spilled your blood and guts to see how far you could go, Id be very unhappy, Tzortzoglou said. Im very thrilled to see it on our screens. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 8.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Upon announcing that the series would be shown, a BBC spokesperson said: After careful consideration and consultation with the contestants, we have decided to broadcast the amateur series of MasterChef. The corporation acknowledged that not everyone will agree with what it recognised as a difficult decision. There appeared to be fewer jokes from Wallace and Torode and fewer chats between the hosts and chefs in the first episode of the new series, which lost almost one million viewers compared with last years launch. open image in gallery Sarah Shafi was the first contestant who asked to be edited out of the new MasterChef series ( BBC ) After allegations of inappropriate behaviour surfaced against Wallace in November 2024, an investigation was launched by Banijay. More than half of the 83 allegations levied against Wallace were substantiated, but the report also upheld one accusation of offensive racist language allegedly used by Torode. In episodes set to air next month, Wallace will be replaced by Anna Haugh. Meanwhile, Grace Dent was confirmed as Wallaces replacement on Celebrity MasterChef last year but the BBC is yet to confirm the pairs fixed replacements on the main MasterChef show. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Stranger Things star Dacre Montgomery has addressed his decision to retreat from the spotlight following his breakout role as the series antagonist, Billy Hargrove. The 30-year-old Australian actor shot to fame for his portrayal of Billy, the abusive older stepbrother of Sadie Sinks Max Mayfield, in Netflixs hit sci-fi thriller. Introduced in season two, he appeared throughout season three before his characters death in the finale, later returning briefly in season four through flashbacks and visions. Since leaving the show in 2019, Montgomery has only starred in a few other projects, including Baz Luhrmanns Oscar-nominated Elvis Presley biopic, Elvis, and Dan Kays new psychological thriller, Spider & Jessie. Explaining his noticeable absence from Hollywood in a new interview with The Australian, he said: I think things have changed. Traditional Hollywood stars existed because there was mystery, he noted. Social media has done away with that. Thats a large part of why I dropped off the map for the last five years. Dacre Montgomery starred as Billy Hargrove on seasons two and three of 'Stranger Things' ( Netflix ) Montgomery added: Im not trying to compete with anyone else, Im living my truth and hopefully being able to pay the rent while Im doing it. Back in 2019, Montgomery spoke to The Independent about how he intended to take advantage of the exposure Stranger Things had given him, saying he was going to be really particular about whats next. Revealing he had only done three auditions in the last two years, he said his next project was a romantic comedy called Broken Heart Gallery. Im doing it for two reasons, he said, One, comedy is a very different heartbeat to drama. It scares me, and I also feel like its a good ego-stripping exercise I cant take myself too seriously. I think thats an important next step. He continued: On the flip side of that, Ive been doing a podcast for over two years. Its kind of an amalgamation of beat poetry that Ive been writing for a long time, and I collated into six distinct tracks. Eight months ago, I started approaching musicians around the world to help me compose scores that I could narrate my beat poetry too. We wrapped production about four days ago. Thats been a very cathartic experience. Stranger Things, created by the brothers Matt and Ross Duffer, has made stars of its young ensemble, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo, Finn Wolfhard, Caleb McLaughlin, and Noah Schnapp, who star as a group of school friends living in 1980s Indiana, where strange supernatural forces begin to interfere. The Emmy-winning series is expected to release its highly anticipated fifth and final season in three parts. Volume one, which will be comprised of four episodes, will be released November 26. Volume two, containing the next three episodes, will be released on Christmas Day. Then the finale, titled The Rightside Up, will premiere New Years Eve. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An Italian murder trial is quite unique, were informed, as prosecutors, witnesses and jurors materialise on screen in Disney+s new series, The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox. Thats undoubtedly true from an American perspective, and thats precisely what we're getting here. Part travelogue, part bildungsroman and part courtroom drama, it is a novel take on one of the 21st centurys most overtold stories: the 2007 murder of Meredith Kercher and the conviction, and subsequent release, of her roommate, Amanda Knox. Amanda Marie Knox (Grace Van Patten), a vivacious young woman from Seattle, thirsts for adventure. Vieni qui, a poster for an Italian exchange programme implores her. Come here! And so, she jets off to Perugia for a study abroad programme. There she finds work in a bar, friendship with the locals and expats, and romance with a gentle computer science student, Rafaelle Sollecito (Giuseppe De Domenico). This Italian idyll is shattered when one of her flatmates, British student Meredith Kercher (Rhianne Barreto), is found murdered in their shared apartment. Knox, distressed by the loss of her friend, quickly becomes the investigation's prime suspect and the focus of an incendiary press campaign, which turns her into "Foxy Knoxy", a globally recognisable femme fatale. The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox is, as Knoxs narration tells us, a chance to correct her often mistold and madly twisted tale. The real Knox who executive produces this series, which draws heavily from her books, Waiting to be Heard and Free undoubtedly suffered through something traumatic, at the hands of both the legal system and the tabloid media. But theres always been a tension there. Ultimately, she has gone on to a successful career and a happy marriage, whereas the victim, Kercher, is often minimised in retellings of this story. Her sister, Stephanie Kercher, has said she finds it difficult to understand why Disney+ are making another adaptation of this case. Twice before, the murder has served as the inspiration for films (Michael Winterbottoms The Face of an Angel and Tom McCarthys Stillwater), both of which focus largely on Knox. And in 2016, Netflix released a major documentary about the case. It was called, simply, Amanda Knox. So, The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox knew that it was swimming in morally murky waters. The series was originally supposed to be called Blue Moon, but transitioned to its rather twee title ahead of release. And that should give some indication about the unusually bubbly tone of this eight-part series. Full of hope, curiosity and the naivete of youth, I embarked on my romantic Italian adventure, Knox informs audiences, like shes setting up an episode of Amanda in Perugia. The series leans heavily on these voiceovers to explain Amandas quirks (such as providing an impromptu gymnastics display at the police station or wearing a T-shirt to court bearing the slogan ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE). The show's visual flourishes like a juror juggling computer-generated ears to illustrate their exposure to inadmissible evidence mirror its goofy, confident protagonist. It also makes the tone of the series very distinct from the grim BBC procedurals were used to in Britain, owing a debt of gratitude to schlocky tastemaker Ryan Murphy (creator of the American Horror Story anthology series). Above all, the creative decisions are oddly reminiscent of another Disney show, Only Murders in the Building. This is a bold choice, because the subject matter here is pitch black. The series unapologetically takes Knoxs side (shes a producer, after all, alongside Monica Lewinsky, another woman subjected to painful media intrusion), dramatising events that have always been ambiguous. Knoxs claims about her treatment by Italian police have been the subject of frenzied debate, but The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox decisively portrays her as a naif, swept up in a system with a contemptuous fixation on her sex life. This sympathetic rendering means that the most controversial moment in the investigation Knoxs confession and implication of her Congolese boss, Patrick Lumumba (Souleymane Seye Ndiaye) is stripped of its fraught racial implications. Does truth actually exist if no one believes it? she asks. Yet perhaps a more pressing question is: does truth actually exist if it means different things to different people? Series creator KJ Steinberg previously a writer on This is Us and Gossip Girl has decided to focus on correcting the narrative on Knox, rather than agonising about the mystery of Kerchers death. The coquettish Van Patten makes for a compelling victim, but she lacks the enigmatic charisma of the real Knox, which made her a target for such outlandish speculation. But what Steinberg and Van Patten nail is the extent to which the bilingualism of the investigation bamboozled Knox and her parents (played by Sharon Horgan and John Hoogenakker). The series moves in a swirl of rapid-fire Italian, with Knox battling through phrasebook sentences, attempting to make herself heard. It offers something that is rare in a series so absolute in its convictions: genuine insight. Grace Van Patten as Amanda Knox ( Disney ) For the most part, however, The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox serves only to deepen the voyeuristic mythology around its subject. The family deserve more than justice, an investigator concludes. They deserve the truth. But, 18 years on, the story feels more focused on nostalgia than any real truth. We peer in, once again but propping open the door only denies the possibility of closure. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice 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. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Please dont think Im dancing on Claires Accessories grave far be it from me to crow over anyones demise but when I heard the news that the chain had fallen into administration, I did allow myself the tiniest smirk of schadenfreude. Claires has said that all outlets will continue trading while it considers the best possible path forward; its appointed administrators from Interpath reported that they will assess options for the company, which could include selling the business to secure a future for this well-loved brand. Ah, the well-loved brand that is Claires. Id say its been a high-street stalwart for as long as I can remember, but the reality is that the US retailer only hit British shores in 1997. Being 10 at the time, I was the perfect age to appreciate its stock of gaudy jewellery, sparkly plastic butterfly clips and decorated headbands aimed at aspirational tweenage girls. Back then, this was a unique proposition. Along with Tammy Girl, which flogged a pitch-perfect collection of tween and early-teen fashions in the Nineties and Noughties, Claires was catering for a market that had previously been criminally ignored and underserved: girls devouring copies of Mizz magazine and clamouring to be stylish. The business flourished over the next decade or so, expanding to 465 stores nationwide by 2010, with success fuelled in part by its in-store ear-piercing service. Ask anyone with pierced lobes who grew up in the Noughties, and chances are they got it done at Claires (and that it was executed by a 16-year-old with train-tracks whod nevertheless been given the power to wield a gun and punch holes through strangers flesh). But its fortunes took a turn the following decade. Underperforming shops were forced to shut; in 2018, Claires restructured its European arm, cutting the number of UK outlets to 370. Across the pond, the US arm went into administration that same year, and filed for bankruptcy earlier this month. I wish I could say Im surprised. Given my age, youd be forgiven for assuming Id hold a healthy dose of rose-tinted nostalgia for the brand that marked my coming-of-age aesthetic. And indeed, seeing a multipack of sterling silver studs adorned with jazzy shapes in eye-watering shades of neon does stir something akin to fondness. Yet I cant really say the news of its downfall sparked anything other than the thought, Well, its about damn time. open image in gallery Claires stocks jewellery and accessories aimed at the tween market ( Getty ) Obviously, the potential loss of jobs totalling 2,150 across the UK and Irelands remaining 306 stores brings me no pleasure whatsoever. They are to be mourned, not celebrated, and I feel for all the employees currently looking down the barrel of an uncertain future. But as for the business itself... I do feel that failure was not just inevitable, but somewhat deserved. Claires Accessories speciality was always, to put it bluntly, cheap tat. Janky bits of plastic. Costume jewellery liable to rust up and turn green the moment it was exposed to the elements. Ugly keyrings and multicoloured earrings so hideous that only a minor could be tempted to purchase them. These items already carried the whiff of future landfill fodder about them upon purchase. But worse still and this is the crime I can never quite forgive Claires for they didnt come with the price tags to match. What should be pocket-money-friendly merchandise is frequently anything but What should be pocket-money-friendly merchandise is frequently anything but. A childs strawberry lip balm for 6? Ha! You could get three for the same price in Boots! A necklace with a plastic star on it designed for three- to six-year-olds retailing at a whopping 12? Absolute madness! Even the beloved ear-piercing has long been beaten on price. While the service itself is free, clients must pay for the earrings; Claires pairs start at 25. High-street jeweller H Samuel offers the same thing for 19.99. Oh, and a bottle of piercing aftercare solution costs a staggering 15 (it retails for around 4 elsewhere). For a time, this mismatch between product and price could be somewhat bridged due to a lack of direct competition. Claires stood alone on the high street if you didnt like what they charged, you were, of course, free to shop around. But where, exactly? open image in gallery Claires is known for its instore ear-piercing service ( AP ) Now, competition comes from every corner of the globe courtesy of the explosion of online shopping. And, while I am very much not a fan of sprawling fast-fashion brands such as Temu and Shein, one can see the appeal when parents are after genuinely cheap and cheerful accessories for kids. Temu, for example, has a pack of three childrens plastic star necklaces for the grand total of 1.77. Its one thing to argue that we should pay more for quality goods that have been made sustainably, but when the battle is between similarly low-grade, mass-produced trinkets, its difficult to make a moral case for picking Claires over its vastly more affordable rivals. Claires is the latest in a long line of former high-street heavyweights to come a cropper in the UK. First Woolworths fell, then Wilkos, then WH Smith the last having been sold to investment firm Modella Capital in March this year. These once-mighty giants all discovered an age-old truth: rest on your laurels for too long and rely too heavily on a familiar name to compensate for poor customer experience, dated products and trumped-up prices and you can hardly feign surprise when consumers vote with their wallets and turn elsewhere. Yes, whenever I spy that distinctive Claires lilac hue, Ill admit that a corner of my mind is instantly transported back to a simpler time. But if theres one thing weve learnt this past decade, its that shops cannot live on nostalgia alone. Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice 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. Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A groundbreaking new drug that slows down the development of type 1 diabetes has been licensed for use in the UK. Teplizumab can allow patients to live normal lives without the need for insulin injections. Experts hailed the decision by the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) as a breakthrough moment that represents a turning point in how the condition is treated. About 400,000 people in the UK have type 1 diabetes, a lifelong condition which causes the immune system to attack insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Insulin helps the body use sugar for energy, and without this hormone, blood sugar levels can become dangerously high. Type 1 diabetes needs constant management to keep blood sugar within range, with patients required to take insulin through injections or pumps. Teplizumab trains the immune system to stop attacking pancreatic cells. It is taken by an IV drip for a minimum of 30 minutes over 14 consecutive days. open image in gallery Hannah Robinson, who is the first adult in the UK to try the drug Teplizumab in the hope it can delay diabetes ( Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust ) The drug, which is already approved in the US, has been authorised for use by the MHRA to delay the onset of stage three type 1 diabetes in adults and children aged eight or over by an average of three years. Ahmed Moussa, general manager of general medicines UK and Ireland at Sanofi, which makes teplizumab, said: One hundred years ago the discovery of insulin revolutionised diabetes care. Todays news marks a big step forward. The UK is the first country in Europe to be granted a licence. Type 1 diabetes develops gradually in three stages over months or years. Stage three is usually when people start to experience blood sugar problems and are diagnosed with the condition. According to the MHRA, teplizumab is used in people with stage two type 1 diabetes, which is an earlier stage of the disease during which patients are at a high risk of progressing to stage three. Parth Narendran, a professor of diabetes medicine at the University of Birmingham and The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, said: Teplizumab essentially trains the immune system to stop attacking the beta cells in the pancreas, allowing the pancreas to produce insulin without interference. This can allow eligible patients to live normal lives, delaying the need for insulin injections and the full weight of the diseases daily management by up to three years. It allows people to prepare for disease progression rather than facing an abrupt emergency presentation. open image in gallery Teplizumab, which is already approved in the US, trains the immune system to stop attacking pancreatic cells, delaying the need for insulin by up to three years ( Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust ) Following the decision by the MHRA, the cost-effectiveness of teplizumab will be assessed by NHS spending watchdog the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) to determine if it can be rolled out on the health service. Karen Addington, chief executive of the charity Breakthrough T1D, said: I am personally delighted and welcome the MHRAs approval of teplizumab. After years of research, clinical trials and drug development, we have an incredible breakthrough. Reacting to the announcement, Dr Elizabeth Robertson, director of research and clinical at Diabetes UK, said: Todays landmark licensing of teplizumab in the UK marks a turning point in the treatment of type 1 diabetes. For the first time, we have a medicine that targets the root cause of the condition, offering three precious extra years free from the relentless demands of managing type 1 diabetes. Dr Robertson added that the next steps are critical. To ensure teplizumab reaches everyone who could benefit, we need it to be made available on the NHS, and the rollout of a screening programme to identify those with early-stage type 1 diabetes, she said. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A math problem has left the internet stumped and social media users scrambling from their nearest protractor to figure it out. Students, teachers and social media are baffled by a tricky math question shared on Threads by British elementary school math teacher and TV presenter Bobby Seagull. The University Challenge star shared a photo of the problem that his friends 7-year-old brought home from school. Im a school maths teacher and I cant solve it, Seagull admitted in the Thread with 117,000 views. Any ideas? Am I missing something? The problem reads: "5)a) Dina is baking. The cake bakes from 11 o'clock until half past 11. The brownies bake from 10 past 11 until 25 to 12. Do you agree with Dina? Explain your answer. If the problem seems to be a head scratcher, that could be because it lacks key details, making it more of a discussion prompt than a clear calculation, former teacher and curriculum developer Caroline Farkas told Newsweek. "That's what makes it a perfect conversation starter rather than a straightforward calculation," she said. The answer to the math problem can be found at the end of this report open image in gallery A math problem shared online by an Elementary school teacher has left the internet trying to figure out the answer. ( stock.adobe ) Farkas explained that, when given the necessary information, time-based questions often challenge students because they require converting minutes to hours and interpreting phrases such as half past. She recommends using visual tools such as number lines and analog clocks to help learners come up with the correct answer. Meanwhile, fellow Threads users attempted to work it out. Whats the actual question? more than one person asked. These are statements not questions, someone else said. open image in gallery Bobby Seagull shared this math problem on Threads, stumping the internet ( Threads/@bobby_seagull ) If you are supposed to agree with Dina, Dina must have made a statement. Since there is no statement, Id assume the teacher forgot to type out one line of the task, a third person attempted to explain. One professional added, The first half of the statement before 5a) tells you that cake takes 30 minutes to cook and that brownies take 10 minutes longer then (sic) cake. As a teacher, I expect you to teach show or read the whole question before attempting to answer. Other users criticized the confusing wording of the question. Ive never heard anyone say 25 to 12. Thats just 11:35. You get half past, quarter after, quarter to. Everything else is generally rounded up. In the case of baking, youd want to use the exact minute, one person said. Another took issue with the cook times listed in the problem. Brownies take 5 minutes less, no? 11.10-11.35 is 25 mins, vs 30 for the cake. But I have no idea what Dina's stance on this is and whether I agree with her, someone wrote. Answer: More information is needed to solve this problem Indian fintech giant Paytm has received long-awaited approval from the countrys central bank to operate as a payment services provider for online merchants just days after one of its Chinese investors sold its entire stake marking a key regulatory breakthrough after months of setbacks and scrutiny. On Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) granted in-principle approval to Paytms Payment Services unit to operate as an online payment aggregator, parent company One97 Communications said in its filing (PDF) to Indian stock exchanges. The approval comes more than two years after the Noida-based fintech was initially denied the license in November 2022 due to noncompliance with Indias rules on receiving investments from countries that share a land border. Without the license, Paytm was barred from onboarding new online merchants. At the time, the company said the restriction had no material impact on its business or revenues. However, at its annual general meeting last September, One97 Communications founder and CEO Vijay Shekhar Sharma stated his intention to reapply for the payment aggregator license. The approval also comes over a year after the RBI banned Paytm Payments Bank from accepting fresh deposits and enabling credit transactions. Paytm weathered that impact by quickly shifting gears and partnering with Axis, HDFC, State Bank of India, and Yes Bank to make them serve as payment system providers for its consumers and merchants involved in online transactions and autopay mandates. With the new license, Paytm can operate as a service provider for online merchants, enabling them to accept a range of payment methods, including cards, net banking, and the Indian government-backed Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The approval also lifts the online merchant onboarding restrictions imposed by the central bank in 2022. The approval comes just a week after Chinas Ant Group exited Paytm by selling its remaining 5.8% direct stake in One97 Communications for $454 million through block deals. This follows an earlier exit in 2023, when Ant Financial sold a 10.3% stake worth $628 million to Sharma in a no-cash deal. Paytm is required to undertake a system audit, including a cybersecurity review, and submit its report to the Reserve Bank of India within six months. If it fails to do so, the approval will lapse, per the RBI letter enclosed with the companys stock exchange filing. The license is also limited to online payment services and does not extend beyond that scope. The latest development will help Paytm control most of its value chain, from its offline sound boxes to the online payment gateway, and reduce its reliance on other bank partners, fintech investor Osborne Saldanha told TechCrunch. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice In todays fast-paced, screen-dominated parenting landscape, one mother is choosing to dial things back to the early aughts. In an article for The Everymom, Erin Celletti, a New York City-based writer, explains how she is raising her almost-7-year-old daughter in what feels more like 2003 than the current day. For starters, the NYC family tries to walk as much as possible, opting out of using Uber or Lyft, which didnt exist in the early 2000s. We walk to school, to the library, to the park, and sometimes to grab ice cream after dinner. These walks give us unstructured time together to talk about our days, notice the little things around us, and move at a pace that feels human, Celletti, who has a bachelors in journalism and two master's degrees in education, wrote. Walking everywhere in our town keeps us grounded in that slower pace, one where were not rushing from one structured activity to the next without a breath in between, she added. open image in gallery Erin Celletti, a NYC-based writer, limits weekday screen time and makes Friday movie nights special with themed snacks Though modern devices and streaming apps still exist in Cellettis household, screens are not the default pastime. She said she limits viewing during the week and creates anticipation around Friday family movie nights, complete with themed snacks and cozy settings, like how TV felt like an event when she was young, rather than background noise. Further drawing from her own upbringing, Celletti said she promotes a routine where homework takes priority immediately after school, ideally three nights a week, so that the rest of the evening genuinely feels like free time. In the early 2000s, routines like this felt normal and non-negotiable, Celletti wrote. Homework was done before play, and it made free time afterward feel truly free. Once her assignments are finished, my daughter can head to a playdate, go outside, or relax, knowing the hard part of the day is behind her. Unstructured outdoor play is also a non-negotiable. Celletti said that she encourages sporadic and frequent playdates based on her childhood memories of running through neighborhood streets with friends. Outdoor time gives her space to use her imagination and burn off energy without the constant buzz of technology or scheduled activities. It feels like the free-range fun of my own childhood, even if Im nearby keeping an eye on things, she said. open image in gallery Celletti and her daughter often spend weekends at the mall, just like she did growing up in the 2000s ( AFP via Getty Images ) Despite the convenience of online shopping, the mall remains a treasured ritual in Cellettis household. Walks between stores, browsing in bookstores, and sampling snacks in the food court have become nostalgic shared experiences, recreating weekend outings from the early 2000s. We dont always buy much, but its about the experiencetrying on clothes, flipping through books together, smelling soaps at Bath & Body Works, and sharing a snack at the food court, she explained. From watching early-2000s family films to reading classic books and listening to her middle school hits, Celletti said she intentionally infuses elements of her eras pop culture into her home. The early 2000s may not have been that long ago, but revisiting the pop culture of that time gives us a shared connection across generations, she said. Plus, it helps keep some of the high-speed, always-on nature of modern media at baywe slow down to enjoy things that dont require constant updates or endless scrolling. Celletti added that she is nowhere near ready to allow her daughter to have her own social media accounts, although shes already asking for it. Some of her friends in the dance and theater world have accounts managed by their moms, and while I can see why (for gigs, opportunities, modeling, etc.), Im just not ready. My private accounts will just have to do for now. And for a while longer. (But talent agents, feel free to HMU,) she wrote. open image in gallery Celletti also implements weekly family traditions centered around food, including Pizza Fridays or going to a local pub on Thursdays ( Getty/iStock ) For now, the family enjoys weekly traditions, Pizza Fridays, Saturday morning breakfast deliveries, and Thursday night dinners at their neighborhood bar, which Celletti believes will leave lasting memories, far outliving any trending app or YouTube clip. Life today can feel fragmented, with so many competing demands for our time, but the early 2000s pace of parenting reminds me to lean into the simple, predictable, and reliable joys of family traditions, she said. Cellettis guiding philosophy is refreshingly simple: avoid overscheduling. By opting for walks instead of drives, embracing quiet evenings at home, and letting boredom spark creativity, she believes shes shaping a childhood of imagination and meaningful experiences. By leaning on some early 2000s parenting vibesless tech, more face-to-face time, family traditions, and a slower paceIm hoping to give my daughter a childhood that feels grounded and joyful. While the world around us keeps racing ahead, I think sometimes the best way forward is with a little inspiration from the past, she concluded. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Youre lethargic. Overcome with ravenous hunger. And if anyone in your path does something even remotely irritating? Lets just say that you might not react with your usual patience. You glance at your phone and a notification glows on the screen: your period tracking app is reminding you that, yes, youre in the luteal phase. Suddenly it all makes sense. Millions of women around the world are using apps to track and make sense of their menstrual cycle; some of them will turn to these platforms to discover when they are most fertile, to try to conceive. One 2024 study estimated that downloads for three popular apps Clue, Flo and Period Tracker have surpassed 250 million. Theyve become a handy way for users to record and keep tabs on changes to their mood or any physical symptoms throughout the month. It is hardly surprising that women are keen to find ways to arm themselves with as much information about their cycle as possible. Menstrual health, and womens health overall, remain under-researched and underfunded. It tends to take two years to be diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and between seven and nine years to get diagnosed with endometriosis; both conditions significantly impact the menstrual cycle. Anecdotally, at least, phrases like its just your hormones can still be all too common refrains when you raise issues with a doctor. Period tracking apps seem to offer a way, then, for women to know whats going on inside their own bodies. Dr Stefanie Felsberger is a research associate at the University of Cambridges Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy, and the lead author of a recent report, The High Stakes of Tracking Menstruation. The apps become a space where a lot of people negotiate their feelings of frustration, or their feelings of not having control over what is happening [to them], she says. They become a tool to manage and live with your cycle. For those whove struggled with their mental health, for example, it can be reassuring to be able to pinpoint a bout of low mood to the luteal phase, which comes between ovulation and menstruation. And it can be validating to be able to show your doctor months worth of data. But the advantages of cycle tracking can blind us to the realities of what is happening to our health information: as Felsberger puts it, the benefits can feel very immediate, but the harms feel really abstract. Who hasnt been guilty of scrolling past pages of tiny text, then ticking agree without questioning where our information is going, and how it might be used? When youre looking for a menstrual tracker, youre looking for something that can help you understand [your cycle] better or find patterns, says Felsberger. You might be stressed out, fed up and desperate for answers; and so the question of data privacy, she adds, is never part of that process of selection. open image in gallery Millions of women use cycle tracking apps to predict and manage their periods ( Getty/iStock ) But perhaps it should be. As Felsberger writes in her report, cycle tracking apps can transform personal health information into data points to be collected, analysed and sold. Essentially, if your app is free, then the company may well be trying to make money from your data. Many apps include software development kits, or SDKs, for advertising, which allow developers to monetise platforms with in-app ads or to exchange data with third parties. The data advertising ecosystem, Felsberger explains, leans heavily on these trackers that are built into the apps and into websites, that automatically share data with other companies, often to use for targeted ads. If youve ever wondered why your social media feed is filled with links to products and brands youve vaguely expressed an interest in, then youve experienced targeted ads. These ads might be tailored to your location, age or gender. In ex-Facebook employee Sarah Wynn-Williamss book Careless People, she alleges that the company tracked when teenage girls deleted selfies, so it can serve a beauty ad to them at that moment, when they might be feeling vulnerable (Facebook has previously denied targeting users based on their emotional state). Research from Privacy International and the internet non-profit Mozilla found that multiple period apps have shared information with third parties, including advertisers and data brokers. In Privacy Internationals 2019 report, 63 per cent of the 36 apps they investigated had automatically transferred data to Facebook when users opened the app. Thankfully, their follow-up this year concluded that period tracking apps were not sharing users cycle data as egregiously with third parties as before. But it still found that some are sharing device information; this is metadata about your device, Felsberger explains. When this is used in conjunction with other sets of data, it can help sharpen the picture of you and your habits. Felsberger was struck by how, while interviewing case studies, she found that the thought that anybody would be interested in your menstrual data was ludicrous to people, really ridiculous. People were laughing when I asked them this question. They were like, What are they going to do with it? She reckons this might be because weve been taught to hide and conceal menstruation for so long, so the idea that it might be a source of valuable data feels alien. But in fact, she says, any health-related data can be incredibly valuable to advertisers. Plus, the information that these apps collect isnt just about cycles. Its really holistic: its health information, its mental health information, its consumer choices, its lifestyle habits, its illness and reproductive choices, Felsberger says. Details about pregnancy, or whether someone is trying to conceive, can be a goldmine. In fact, this data is thought to be more than 200 times more valuable for targeted advertising than information about age, gender or location, because it marks such a significant change in shopping behaviour. open image in gallery Many of us are unaware just how valuable our health data can be for advertisers ( Getty/iStock ) Yet Felsberger says plenty of her interviewees seemed to believe that the companies behind their tracking apps were entirely altruistic. Theres this implicit assumption that if somebody does a product for periods, that they care about menstruation, rather than [the potential to make] a lot of money out of it, she notes. But menstruation has been a big business for a long time. The global period care market is estimated to be worth around $69bn (51bn) by 2035. And its thought that femtech (the catch-all term for digital products and technologies dealing with womens health) will have a global market size of over $60bn by 2027. While many of us will take a while to feel like we can confide in a new person, says Dr Alice Ashcroft, a researcher in gender equity and tech, When it comes to things like technology, people are a lot quicker to just trust it they just download this app and put all of their information on it. Ashcroft spent years tracking her menstrual cycle digitally, before deleting her app of choice a few months ago. She still thinks the app itself is great: she says the company is really transparent about the fact that, because users pay for their service, they dont need to sell data for profit. So why quit? My lack of trust is not with the app, which is maybe a controversial thing to say, she explains. Instead, her concern was sparked by news stories that emerged earlier this year. Back in January, the National Police Chiefs Council quietly rolled out guidance on investigating unexpected pregnancy loss. This stated that officers should look at digital devices and health apps to establish a womans knowledge and intention in relation to the pregnancy. Theres this implicit assumption that if somebody does a product for periods, that they care about menstruation, rather than the potential to make a lot of money out of it Stefanie Felsberger This made the news in May, and at the time, a spokesperson for the NPCC said that an investigation would only be initiated where there is credible information to suggest criminal activity, which would often be because of concerns raised from medical professionals. They also said that the police do not routinely investigate unexpected pregnancy loss. But, for Ashcroft, The thought of the police being able to use any data that I had against me is quite a horrific feeling. This fear is the key thing that led her to stop using the tracker. The current position is that the police can, and indeed do, seize mobile phones and have been able to access data such as menstruation apps to try to evidence illegal abortions, says Rachel Fletcher, managing partner and head of crime at Slater Heelis Solicitors. This would only happen in rare cases where there was intelligence to suggest that a woman had illegally terminated her pregnancy. In June, MPs voted to decriminalise abortion in England and Wales, meaning that if this amendment is passed, women will no longer be prosecuted for ending a pregnancy. Medical professionals will still be subject to the 24-week limit and the requirement for two doctors approval for the procedure. It was a huge development, marking the most significant change to abortion law in 60 years. The bill still needs approval from the House of Lords and royal assent. But if it is passed, Fletcher explains, Police would not have lawful grounds to seize data, including a mobile phone, in connection with an abortion, since it would no longer be illegal, and challenges to any seizure should be made. She adds that If this occurs, legal advice should be sought without delay to prevent the police accessing data. Data privacy and abortion laws are very different in the United States. But developments across the Atlantic, such as the Supreme Courts rolling back of Roe v Wade in 2022 (a move that prompted many American women to delete their tracking apps, for fear the data could be used against them in states where abortion is now illegal) have also made Ashcroft wary. Im aware that politics tend to escalate in the US and then the trends follow over here, she says. So Im kind of seeing that as a warning sign. Shes not the only British woman who has been spooked. Jess, 31, tells me that she started feeling uneasy about what data I was sharing after Roe v Wade was overturned, and decided to switch apps. The company behind her previous cycle tracker, she says, didnt make any assurances to alleviate her concerns, so she swapped over to another platform that was more vocal about its data policies. Im aware that politics tend to escalate in the US and then the trends follow over here Alice Ashcroft And Hannah, 32, used a cycle tracker for several years, but a few months back, she remembers seeing a flurry of news stories coming out about safety and privacy risks for people who use menstrual tracking apps. This, she says, also coincided with American legislators attempting to further tighten up abortion rules, and with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claiming that it is utterly ludicrous that we can allow abortion up to 24 weeks. I opened up my app one day during this time and there was a new set of data rules I had to agree with, she says. I rejected them, and all my previous period history from the app was gone. Only if I accepted the new data rules could I get it back. open image in gallery Some apps have rolled out an anonymous mode for users with privacy concerns ( Getty/iStock ) But the privacy policy, like so many similar documents, felt opaque and difficult to understand. The data rules were paragraphs upon paragraphs of scary words and I couldnt process it, Hannah recalls. Now, she says, she simply writes the date of her period in her phones Notes app and counts forward if shes trying to predict her cycle, But Im aware that if I decide to start trying for a baby, I may need to use one of these apps again I just hope theres one that is safe. What might make digitally tracking your cycle an easier, less intimidating process? Several apps have launched anonymous mode, so users can access their platform without providing details such as their name or email address; thats certainly an encouraging development. Ashcroft reckons there are two things that need to happen to improve things: regulation around tracking data needs to be tighter (or, where they exist, regulations need to be better enforced) and there needs to be a huge emphasis on education around how our data is used, so that the next generation of users will be able to make more informed decisions. Meanwhile, Felsberger says she would like to see more research collaborations between cycle tracking companies and research institutes, which would mean that their extensive data sets could help us better understand menstrual health. An NHS-backed app, she adds, could provide an alternative to profit-driven platforms too. The problem is that we have this huge data gap when it comes to gender and health, and I thought an app that could be designed with clinicians and patients together could help understand where those data gaps are. Her work, she adds, is not trying to cause unnecessary alarm: she simply wants us all to ask for better regulation and for the apps to try harder when it comes to protecting data. Wouldnt it be nice to be able to better understand our bodies, without having to potentially sacrifice our privacy? Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Richard Madeley has said that his mother hated him for deciding to leave education when he was a teenager. The veteran TV host was 16 when he went to work for his local paper, a move his mother disapproved of. The 69-year-old made the confession while talking to Good Morning Britain co-host Charlotte Hawkins on A-level results day. Well, I left school at 16 to join the local paper, he said. My mum thought it was a very bad move, my dad thought it was great. "My mum hated me as I started work when I was 16 and she insisted that I go to night school and take A-Levels there. So, I took an English A-Level and I got a B, I think." Madeleys decision proved to be fruitful for his career as, within two years at the paper, he had been promoted to assistant editor. Just three years later, he joined the BBC. open image in gallery Madeleys career experienced a swift trajectory at an early age ( Getty ) Earlier in the show, Madeley asked Hawkins how she had fared in her own A-levels. I got three As the 50-year-old said. Madeley jokingly replied: Oh there's always one, isn't there?: Hawkins added that her results were not her predicted grades as she hadnt performed well in her mock exams. We all went to the school to get them, it was really special and I was not expecting that at all, she continued. I think having not done very well when it came to the mock exams obviously gave me some impetus to think, 'Well, I need to get cracking on this.'" open image in gallery Richard Madeley and Charlotte Hawkins on Good Morning Britain ( ITV/ Good Morning Britain ) A-level top grades have risen again in 2025 to reach a record high outside of the Covid years, while a record number of students have been accepted onto UK degree courses. More than a quarter (28.3 per cent) of UK entries were awarded an A or A* grade, up by 0.5 percentage points on last year, when 27.8 per cent achieved the top grades. This was higher than in 2019, the last year that summer exams were taken before the pandemic, when 25.4 per cent of entries were awarded A or A* grades. It is the highest proportion of entries scoring top grades outside the pandemic-affected years of 2020-22, according to the figures from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Boys have outperformed girls in terms of top grades for the first time in seven years. Additional reporting by PA. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Three men in Philadelphia are in police custody after they allegedly stole $2 million from a Brinks armored car, according to local police. Investigators claim that the robbery, which took place outside a Home Depot store, was an inside job, according to ABC 6. Daishaun "Daisha" Hughes-Murchison, 30; Brian Wallace, 31; and Trayvine Jackson, 31, all of Philadelphia, were arrested and have been charged with robbery that interferes with interstate commerce and the use of a firearm in a violent crime, according to police. All three appeared in court for the first time last week. The alleged robbery occurred in June. A judge ordered Jackson to be detained, while Wallace and Hughes-Murchison will stand for detention hearings this week. A Brinks armored vehicle. A trio of men were arrested in Philadelphia after they allegedly stole $2 million from an armored Brinks vehicle in June 2025 ( Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) On June 21, the trio allegedly robbed the Brinks car while it was near a Home Depot in Philadelphia's Port Richmond area. Prosecutors believe that the Brinks driver was walking down an alley behind the Home Depot when the trio emerged with assault rifles. The men allegedly forced the driver of the truck to the ground and took his pistol and his keys, according to police. Investigators said that one man kept watch over the driver while the others removed money from the truck. The men allegedly fled the scene in a pair of vehicles, one of which had temporary Virginia tags. The vehicle with the Virginia tags was a rental, which was returned a few hours after the robbery. The second car allegedly belongs to Hughes-Murchison. Surveillance video at the car rental company reportedly captured Wallace returning the rental and then entering Hughes-Murchison's vehicle. Investigators also pulled the men's cell records and allegedly found that the men had been making calls in the vicinity of the heist around the time that it occurred. According to court records, Brinks officials told investigators that Jackson was an employee with the company but was suspended and then fired after an internal investigation. Police are reportedly working to determine if the robbery is connected to another Brinks armored vehicle robbery in Cheltenham just a few miles north of Port Richmond that occurred a day before the arrests were announced. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Bryan Kohberger, who pleaded guilty to killing four University of Idaho students, is being held in solitary confinement after his fellow inmates planned to make him miserable. Kohberger, a 30-year-old former PhD criminology student, was sentenced to life behind bars without the possibility of parole after he broke into a Moscow home and stabbed four students to death in November 2022. Hes being held at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution in the J block, a long-term restrictive housing unit, records show. Kohberger was moved to the restrictive unit after complaining about his fellow inmates, who have been terrorizing him, NewsNation reported. Theyve shouted at him through the air ducts at all hours of the day to prevent him from sleeping or thinking to himself, the outlet reported. open image in gallery Bryan Kohberger is being held in solitary confinement after his fellow inmates plotted to make him miserable, according to a report ( Getty ) We are aware of Kohbergers complaints about what he considers taunting, a spokesperson for the prison told The Independent in a statement. Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison. Bryan Kohberger is housed alone in a cell, and IDOC security staff maintain a safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody. The Independent has reached out to Kohbergers lawyer for more information. The good news is the inmates apparently were waiting for him, Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective who now serves as the director of the Cold Case Foundation, told NewsNation. They are now making his life absolutely miserable. Theyre utilizing the vent system. Theyre kicking the doors. Theyre taunting him. And theyre basically torturing him through using psychology, he said. And my goodness, hes complaining. The unit boasts single-person cells, restricts outdoor recreation time to just one hour per day and allows inmates to shower every other day, the prion spokesperson said. All J block prisoners are moved in restraints and have have access to religious services, communication through JPay, and can place commissary orders. The convicted murderer is no longer in harms way, but is still complaining to guards, the former detective said. The guards at this point, all the most they can do is write it down or tell him, Hey, theres nothing we can do. Youre not in physical harm,' McDonough told the outlet. Theyre under obligation to basically protect him, right? But in this particular situation, hes in an isolation situation. Those around him cant get to him physically, he said. So, theyve come up, again, a way of circumventing what the rules may be. Communications are a no-no within the prison. Inmates are extremely creative. J Block can house up to 128 individuals and includes populations in general population protective custody, long-term restrictive housing, and death row, the prison spokesperson said. Its really a prison within a prison. However, the disadvantage that hes at, is that theres not a whole bunch of room where they can start moving other inmates around, he said. So what they wanna do is keep him in protective custody right now until he goes through the process. open image in gallery Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were killed in November 2022 ( Instagram ) Kohberger hasnt revealed his motive behind the killings of Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Ethan Chapin, 20. Prosecutors have admitted theres no known connection between Kohberger and the victims. He accepted a plea deal admitting to the quadruple murders in exchange for prosecutors dropping the death penalty last month, putting an end to any hopes of a trial, which was scheduled to begin in August. Families were divided over the plea deal. Loved ones of Goncalves and Kernodle expressed disappointment over the lack of a trial. This aint justice, no judge presided, no jury weighed the truth, Goncalves family wrote in a statement. Thompson robbed us of our day in court. No negotiations, no jury of our peers, not even the pretense of cooperation and fairness. Kernodles father told The New York Times that he does not agree with the plea deal, and said he is disappointed in the prosecutors decision. But loved ones of Chapin and Mogen supported the move. While we know there are some who do not support it, we ask that they respect our belief that this is the best outcome, Mogens family said in a statement. We now embark on a path of hope and healing. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Authorities have released a photo of the gunman who fired nearly 200 rounds at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta after blaming the COVID-19 vaccine for making him depressed and suicidal. Patrick Joseph White fired roughly 180 shots at the CDCs campus Friday, breaking about 150 windows and killing DeKalb County police officer David Rose, 33, before turning the gun on himself, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation said. Documents found in a search of the home where 30-year-old White lived with his parents expressed the shooters discontent with the COVID-19 vaccinations, the bureaus director Chris Hosey said Tuesday. White wrote that he wanted to make the public aware of his discontent with the vaccine, Hosey said. The American Federation of Government Employees union slammed vaccine misinformation for putting agency staffers at risk, demanding a clear and unequivocal stance in condemning vaccine disinformation by CDC and HHS leadership. No staffers were hurt in the shooting. But, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a known vaccine skeptic. open image in gallery Patrick Joseph White fired hundreds of rounds at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention headquarters in Atlanta on Friday after blaming the COVID-19 vaccine for making him depressed and suicidal. ( Georgia Bureau of Investigations ) Their leadership is critical in reinforcing public trust and ensuring that accurate, science-based information prevails. This condemnation is necessary to help prevent violence against scientists that may be incited by such disinformation, the organization said. Leading up to the shooting, White had expressed thoughts of self-harm, which led to law enforcement being contacted weeks earlier, Hosey said. White had no known criminal history. In addition to finding the writings from White, authorities recovered five weapons belonging to the gunmans father that were used in the attack. The guns had been locked up, but White forced his way into the safe that held them,11Alive reported. The five guns were described by Hosey as rifles, shotguns and possibly a handgun. He said most of the shell casings left at the scene were from a long gun. White had been stopped by CDC security guards before he drove to the CVS pharmacy across the street, where he opened fire. His bullets pierced blast-resistant windows at the CDC and sent glass shards flying into several rooms at the agency. Over 500 shell casings were recovered from the scene. open image in gallery The gunman had written about his discontent with the COVID-19 vaccines before the shooting, authorities said. ( 2025 Atlanta Journal-Constitution ) Kennedy toured the CDC campus Monday with Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Jim ONeill and CDC Director Susan Monarez. Monarez wrote on social media that at least four CDC buildings were struck in the shooting. Employees were advised to work from home this week, though officials have said the damage may take several months to repair. Kennedy, a longtime skeptic who has spread vaccine misinformation, issued a statement Saturday saying, no one should face violence while working to protect the health of others and that federal officials were supporting CDC staff. When asked directly what his plan was to stop vaccine misinformation and prevent similar attacks from happening in the future, Kennedy denied any link. We dont know enough about what the motive was of this individual, but people can ask questions without being penalized, Kennedy said, according to The Hill. With reporting by the Associated Press. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Los Angeles-bound flight was diverted to Colorado after a drunk passenger started yelling racist slurs while waving around a skateboard, police said. Breeze Airlines flight MX704 flying from Norfolk, Virginia to Los Angeles landed in Grand Junction Airport in Colorado around 11.15 a.m. Wednesday after an intoxicated male passenger became agitated, yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard, Grand Junction Police said. Airline staff put the passenger in restraints twice but he was able to break free both times. He didnt physically assault anyone and no injuries were reported, police said. When the flight touched down, police were called to assist with an unruly passenger, authorities said. The man was then taken into custody at the direction of the FBI and transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility. David Leroy Carter Jr., 46, of Los Angeles, was arrested, the FBI told The Independent. The Breeze Airways flight to Los Angeles was diverted to Colorado after a drunk passenger started shouting racists slurs while waving a skateboard, police say ( Grand Junction Police Dept. ) Its not immediately clear what charges he may face. The U.S. Attorney's Office for Colorado would announce the charges at an appropriate time, the agency said. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to police. The Independent has asked the FBI and the U.S. Attorneys Office for more information. The plane was met promptly by local law enforcement officers, who restrained and removed the passenger from the aircraft, Breeze Airways said in a statement. The flight was delayed in Grand Junction while a new crew was brought in to fly the remaining passengers to LAX, the airline said. The passengers arrived at their final destination around 7.15 p.m. local time. This year, there have been reports of more than 1,000 unruly passengers, according to data from the Federal Aviation Administration. That figure marks a dramatic drop from 2021, when the FAA received a whopping 5,973 reports of unruly passengers. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Florida elementary school teacher has been arrested after he was involved in a drunken car crash in a campus parking lot, authorities say. On the second day of classes at Explorer K-8 in Spring Hill, Philip Scire was arrested on Tuesday and later charged with driving under the influence, according to the Hernando County Sheriffs Office. Deputies said they found the 32-year-old eighth-grade language arts teacher just before 11.45 a.m. unconscious behind the wheel of his vehicle in the aftermath of a single-vehicle collision. The school resource deputy was first on the scene after Scire had driven his car into a fence in the schools rear parking lot, the sheriffs office said. Deputies said they found Scire surrounded by several empty single-serve alcohol containers within his reach. His vehicle was still in gear, they added. The suspect was transported to a local hospital, where one deputy claimed that they could smell alcohol on the suspects breath. open image in gallery Philip Scire is being held in the Hernando County Sheriff's Detention Center following his arrest earlier this week ( Google Street View ) Scire allegedly refused a deputys requests to take a test to measure his blood alcohol level or to detect chemical substances. After being cleared by the hospital, Scire was transported to the Hernando County Detention Center, online jail records show. He is currently being held on a $1,000 bond. The Hernando County School District stated to McClatchy News that Scire has been placed on administrative leave pending the results of an ongoing investigation. The school district noted the crash was initially attributed to a medical situation. Former students and parents of children Scire taught expressed shock over his arrest. He is the most amazing teacher, my heart is broken over this, one person commented on the sheriffs office Facebook post. I am thankful nobody was hurt and that he is okay, I hope he gets the help he needs. He has made such a positive impact on my childrens lives. He was my teacher a couple years ago, hes an amazing teacher and an amazing person, another added. Scire had gotten married in March and was expecting a child in late July, according to his Facebook page. More than a decade ago, in 2014, he was arrested on a DUI charge in Broward County, according to the HCSO. After graduating from Florida Atlantic University, Scire worked as a bartender before becoming a teacher in the summer of 2017, according to his LinkedIn profile. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Kansas woman on probation for a DUI allegedly tampered with the breathalyzer device in her car before getting into a fatal hit-and-run crash. Kayla Errebo, 32, is accused of circumventing the ignition interlock device - a breathalyzer device - in her car and crashing head-on with another vehicle at the intersection of K-140 highway and South Reese Road, about 97 miles north of Wichita, according to KWCH. Deanna Sommerfield, 55, known by loved ones as June, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to WMTV. Her husband, Mark Sommerfeld, 61, who was driving the car, was taken to Salina Regional Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Both were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. Authorities believe Errebo was drunk driving and evaded her ignition interlock device, which requires a breath sample to test if theres alcohol on the drivers breath before starting the car. Errebo appeared in court Tuesday and was charged with second-degree murder, reckless driving, circumvention of an ignition interlock device and improper driving on a laned roadway. A Kansas woman who was already on probation for a DUI has been accused of tampering with the breathalyzer device in her car before getting into a fatal hit-and-run crash. ( Saline County Jail ) Errebo, who is from Lorraine, Kansas, has a history of drinking and driving, court records revealed. In January 2024, Errebo was arrested for DUI of alcohol or drugs and tampering with an ignition interlock device. She was arrested again in June 2024 for DUI, fleeing from an officer, driving without a valid license and operating a vehicle without the required ignition interlock device. Errebo pleaded guilty to those charges in October 2024 and was sentenced to a year of probation, set to end in November of this year. The state has since filed to revoke her probation. Errebo is scheduled to appear in court again on August 22. A judge set her bail at $1 million, but if she makes bail, she will not be allowed to leave home without a monitoring device and a device that measures the presence of alcohol. She has also been prohibited from operating a motor vehicle and ordered to have no contact with any victims or witnesses in the case. Loved ones of Deanna Sommerfield set up a GoFundMe to help her husband with his medical bills and her funeral. She left behind her husband and her two sons David and Quinton anything you guys can donate to help this family would be greatly appreciated in this time of grief and healing, the fundraiser reads. As of Wednesday afternoon, the fundraiser had received over $4,000 in donations. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A New York man has been charged with harassing a relative of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson after he allegedly left chilling voicemails expressing satisfaction over his death. Thompson was fatally shot outside of a Midtown Manhattan hotel on December 4. He was laid to rest at a private funeral service in his Minnesota hometown on December 9. That same day, murder suspect Luigi Mangione was arrested in Pennsylvania following a week-long manhunt. Mangione is now facing the death penalty at the direction of President Trumps Attorney General Pam Bondi. He has maintained his innocence ever since his arrest. Shane Daley, 40, of Galway, New York, was arrested and charged on Wednesday after he was accused of placing multiple calls to one of Thompson's family members days after the shooting. Police say the suspect justified the killing, saying that the family member deserved to die similarly, according to a criminal complaint. open image in gallery A police officer stands near the scene where the CEO of United Healthcare Brian Thompson was shot and killed in Midtown Manhattan, December 4, 2024 ( Reuters ) 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, a Department of Justice statement read. He was arraigned on Wednesday afternoon in Albany, New York. A CBS News video showed Daley entering the courtroom and hiding his face from the cameras. 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." If convicted, Daley could be met with a maximum term of 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. open image in gallery Thompsons family member was reportedly harassed with chilling voicemails that expressed satisfaction at the CEOs death ( UnitedHealth Group ) Shane Daley allegedly repeatedly harassed the grieving family of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare gunned down in New York City. The recurrent calls and messages in the days following Brian Thompsons murder were more than callous and cold-hearted harassment they were threatening and terrified a family already suffering following the violent death of their loved one, FBI New York assistant director Christopher G. Raia said. The killing of Thompson in December 2024 gained international attention within hours as a frantic manhunt for the killer unfolded. The case has continued to split opinion across America, with the Trump administration taking a hard line against Mangione. Recently, Mangiones defense team filed a letter to Judge Margaret M. Garnett, requesting that he be granted access to a laptop in order to adequately prepare for trial and assist in his own defense, which the court permitted. The laptop will not be connected to the internet, and he will only be able to view case-related files like videos and documents, his defense attorney Karen Agnifilo wrote. Mangione will next appear in the New York Supreme criminal court on September 16. open image in gallery Mangione is set to appear in court next month ( Getty Images ) Mangione is being held at the notorious Metropolitan Detention Center in New York City. This facility has been described as Hell on Earth by a lawyer who represented a detainee who died there. It has held several high-profile individuals, including Sean Diddy Combs, and disgraced crypto founder Sam Bankman-Fried, who was moved from the facility in March. Meanwhile, donations from Mangiones supporters have topped $1.2 million so far in an online fundraiser for his defense. India and China are in talks to resume border trade that was suspended in 2020, according to international media reports, Azernews reports. Authorities from both countries are negotiating the reopening of trade routes along the border, which had been operational for more than 30 years at three key points in the Himalayan region. The trade posts were shut down following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and a simultaneous escalation in border tensions between the two nations. The deterioration in relations led to deadly clashes, resulting in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese troops. (Reuters) -Insurance Australia Group posted higher annual cash earnings on Wednesday, beating estimates, as increased premiums and lower-than-expected natural peril costs improved performance and allowed the top domestic general insurer to lift its dividend. The company reported cash earnings of A$1.17 billion ($763.54 million) for the year ended June 30, up from A$905 million last year and slightly above Visible Alpha's consensus estimate of A$1.15 billion. Shares in the firm gained 2.8% to A$8.74 in early trade, hitting their highest since August 8. Net earned premium gained 8% to A$9.98 billion, driving insurance profit to A$1.74 billion. The company now expects to log a reported insurance profit of A$1.45 billion to A$1.65 billion for fiscal 2026. Favourable weather helped the firm keep peril costs below its budget, while sustained premium growth and operational improvements across its home market underpinned stronger earnings. Natural peril costs for the year came in at A$1.09 billion, about A$200 million below provision. The company will be allocating A$1.32 billion towards its provision for natural perils during fiscal 2026. IAG declared a final dividend of 19 Australian cents a share, bringing the full-year payout to 31 cents, up 15% from last year. Analysts at Citi said the results beat consensus and the guidance update "looks at least as good as consensus if not a bit better". Citi also hailed strong renewal rates in both Australia and New Zealand, expecting the stock to trade flat to up. IAG said its recently announced alliances with the Royal Automobile Clubs of Queensland and Western Australia were expected to add about A$3 billion in gross written premium and lift insurance profit by at least A$300 million. The insurer, in mid-May, said it would invest A$1.35 billion to buy the underwriting business and brand of the Royal Automobile Club of Western Australia, following a similar deal with the club in Queensland. ($1 = 1.5323 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Rishav Chatterjee & Sherin Sunny in Bengaluru; Editing by Mohammed Safi Shamsi and Alan Barona) The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Nicholas Alahverdian who faked his own death, fled the years and spent years denying his identity has been convicted in Utah of rape. The 38-year-old, who used several different aliases including Arthur Knight, was found guilty in Utah of raping a former girlfriend in 2008 after a whirlwind romance that started after the pair met on MySpace. Alahverdian, who appeared in court in a wheelchair while wearing a suit and an oxygen mask, declined to testify at the trial. Prosecutors described him as an intelligent man who used his charm to manipulate a 24-year-old woman recovering from a traumatic brain injury. What started as financial control, such as demanding she covered the cost of dates, car repairs and loans, quickly escalated to physical assault, they said. During the trial, the victim testified that Alahverdians behavior turned controlling and hostile soon after she purchased their engagement rings and lent him money for rent. She said that when she took off the ring and ended the relationship, it led to an argument and he eventually assaulted her in his Salt Lake City apartment. Alahverdian faces five years to life in prison for the charge and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 20. open image in gallery Nicholas Alahverdian, 38, faked his own death in 2020 with an obituary stating he passed from non-Hodgkin lymphoma ( Firecrest Films ) "We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place," Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement. "We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable." Alahverdian first came under suspicion in Utah when his DNA was matched to a rape kit as part of a statewide drive to clear testing backlogs in 2018. Months after being charged, an online obituary, dated February 29, 2020, claimed he had died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But Rhode Island law enforcement, alongside his former attorneys and foster family, doubted his death. open image in gallery Alahverdian used at least a dozen aliases, investigators found ( Getty ) The deception ended in 2021 when hospital workers in Glasgow recognized Alahverdian through his tattoos and matched him to Interpol notices while he was being treated for COVID-19. He was arrested the same year. Alahverdian claimed he was the victim of mistake identity, and that he was in fact an Irish-born orphan called Arthur Knight who had never been to the U.S. The tattoos, he claimed, had been given to him in the hospital as an attempt to frame him. Legal proceedings rumbled on for years until he was finally extradited to Utah in January 2024 to face charges related to the Salt Lake County case. He formally acknowledged he and the alias Arthur Knight were the same person at an October 2024 bail hearing. Investigators believe he used at least a dozen different identities to avoid capture over the years. open image in gallery Alahverdian leaves court in Edinburgh after his extradition hearing. ( PA ) Alahverdian still faces a second rape trial in nearyby Utah County, which is scheduled for mid-September. He was previously wanted in Rhode Island for failing to register as a sex offender, the Associated Press reported. The FBI has said he faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was also convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. open image in gallery Alahverdian speaks during a live-streamed extradition hearing ( AP ) Alahverdian has been the subject of multiple documentaries, including the four-part Imposter: The Man Who Came Back from the Dead on the British Channel 4, as well as a December 2024 episode of Dateline NBC. Jury selection in another rape case where he is the defendant is set to begin September 15. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A man who allegedly faked his own death to avoid rape charges has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend. Nicholas Rossi, of Rhode Island, was convicted Wednesday in the first of two trials in Utah. A Salt Lake County jury found him guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial. His accuser and her parents testified during the proceedings. The verdict was handed down just hours after 38-year-old Rossi declined to testify in his own defense. He will be sentenced on October 20. open image in gallery Rossi at his jury trial in Salt Lake City Rossi is also due to stand trial in September in Utah County on another rape charge. An online obituary claimed that Rossi died on February 29, 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, police in his home state, along with his former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was actually dead. He was arrested in Scotland in 2021 while receiving treatment for Covid-19 after hospital staff in Glasgow recognized his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Rossi was extradited to Utah in January 2024 after losing an extradition appeal, in which he claimed he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. Who is Nicholas Rossi? Rossi was born as Nicholas Alahverdian in Rhode Island, in July 1987 to Diana and Jack Alahverdian, according to reports in US newspaper The Providence Journal. He was adopted by his stepfather David Rossi, and changed his surname to Rossi. open image in gallery Nicholas Rossi speaks during a live-streamed extradition hearing He grew up in Rhode Island foster homes and made a name for himself as a vocal critic of the states Department of Children, Youth and Families. According to his former lawyer, Rossi had moved to Ireland in 2019 but the exact location is unclear. A sealed arrest warrant for the Orem Utah rape was issued in 2020 after he was identified as a suspect a decade after the alleged incident. That delay was due to a backlog of DNA test kits at Utah State Crime Lab. Under the guise of Arthur Brown, Rossi is believed to have met his wife, Miranda Knight, in Bristol in 2019 and married her in early 2020, assuming the name Arthur Knight. The pair moved up to Glasgow in 2021 where he claimed to be a professor teaching at the University of Glasgow. Miranda Knights brother, Kevin Knight, told the Daily Record in 2022 that she had been distraught when accusations came to light and that she was in denial, believing the police had the wrong man. He also said that Rossi had always spoken with a thick Irish accent and never spoke about his family. Rossi was extradited to the US after losing his final appeal in December 2023. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A man has been arrested after he threw a sandwich at a federal officer patrolling in Washington, D.C., and called him a fascist, police say. Late Sunday night, Sean Charles Dunn is accused of approaching a group of law enforcement officers and shouting at Customs and Border Protection Agent Gregory Lairmore, according to court documents obtained byThe Independent. Dunn pointed his finger and yelled, F*** you! You f***ing fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city! as he stood within inches of Lairmore, the documents claim. Also among the group were other federal agents and a Metro Transit Police detective. After a few minutes, Dunn crossed the street while he continued to yell obscenities at Lairmore, police say. He then came back to forcefully throw a sub-style sandwich at Lairmore, according to the documents, which cited an Instagram video taken by an onlooker. open image in gallery A man has been arrested after he threw a sandwich at a federal officer patrolling in Washington, D.C., and called him a 'fascist,' police say ( U.S. District Court for D.C. ) open image in gallery Sean Charles Dunn was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States ( U.S. District Court for D.C. ) Dunn tried to run away, but he was arrested. He later admitted to police, I did it. I threw a sandwich, per the documents. The man was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States. A day after Dunns arrest, President Donald Trump announced he was placing the D.C. police department under direct federal control and deploying the National Guard to rescue our nations capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, and squalor, and worse, despite crime figures declining since 2023. National Guard troops started hitting D.C. streets from Tuesday evening, and over the coming days, there will be between 100 and 200 soldiers out patrolling at any given time, The New York Times reported, citing Army spokesman Colonel Dave Butler. In total, about 800 troops are expected to be deployed. There have been at least 66 arrests made since the federal takeover began, according to the Trump administration. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A suspect seen in a viral video hurling a sub-style sandwich at a federal law enforcement officer Sunday night has been identified as a Department of Justice employee. Attorney General Pam Bondi said Thursday that Sean Dunn had been fired from the department. Court documents filed Wednesday state that Dunn approached officers, including Metro Transit Police and U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, and started yelling. The incident took place around 11 p.m. on 14th Street NW in Washington, D.C. Dunn allegedly stood within inches of a Customs and Border Protection agent, pointed a finger in his face, and shouted F*** you! You f****** fascists! Why are you here! I dont want you in my city! This went on for several minutes before he crossed the street and continued to yell. A few minutes later, at about 11.06 p.m., Dunn allegedly approached the CBP agent and threw the sandwich at him, hitting the agent in the chest. Dunn tried to flee the scene but was detained. As the Metropolitan Police Department processed him, Dunn allegedly told an officer: I did it. I threw a sandwich. open image in gallery Sean Dunn was arrested after throwing a sandwich at a CBP agent on Sunday. On Thursday, it was revealed that he was a Department of Justice employee. ( Getty Images ) He has been charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States. He faces up to a year in prison if convicted. The U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, former Fox News host Jeanine Pirro, said in a video on X on Wednesday that Dunn would be charged with a felony. open image in gallery Dunn worked as an international affairs specialist in the criminal division of the Department of Justice before his firing. ( Getty Images ) Dunn worked as an international affairs specialist in the Office of International Affairs in the criminal division of the Department of Justice, an official told Bloomberg Law. The office handles prisoner swaps, international extraditions, and other overseas actions. The 37-year-old lives in D.C., a spokesperson for the office of the D.C. U.S. attorney told The Washington Post. A source at the department told Axios that Dunn was hired in 2022 as a specialist who was still burrowed in from the Biden administration. The Independent has contacted Dunns attorney and the Department of Justice for comment. open image in gallery Dunn was arrested after he threw a sandwich at a federal officer patrolling in Washington, D.C., and called him a 'fascist,' police say. ( U.S. District Court for D.C. ) If you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you, Bondi said on X, adding that Dunn was no longer a Department of Justice employee. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony. This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ, she added. You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement. In a video posted on X, Pirro said Dunn thought it was funny. Well, he doesn't think it's funny today, because we charged him with a felony assault on a police officer, and we're gonna back the police to the hilt, so there! she added. Stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else." open image in gallery Dunn approached officers and yelled obscenities, authorities said in a court filing. ( Getty Images ) The footage of the incident, which took place in a popular nightlife area of D.C., quickly went viral after being shared on Instagram under the account @bigap4l. Cortez Dargin filmed the video, telling The Post that he was leaving a nightclub with his friends when they heard Dunn yelling. I was like, 'Let me record this guy, because hes going crazy right now," he told the paper. In the footage, Dunn can be seen chanting shame before turning away from the officers and walking away, returning a short time later to where the officers were before he hurled the sandwich at one of them. CBP shared the video on X, writing, Next time youre hangry, just eat the sandwich. The incident took place as President Donald Trump flooded the nations capital with federal law enforcement agents and National Guard troops. While Trump claims that Washington is a city plagued by crime, city officials note that statistics show that violent crime is at its lowest point in three decades. On Monday, Trump announced that he was placing the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department under federal control and deploying the National Guard to rescue our nations capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, and squalor, and worse. National Guard troops began patrolling the streets of Washington Tuesday night, with a total of about 800 troops being deployed. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A failed Republican candidate has been sent to federal prison for 80 years for a series of drive-by shootings at the homes of New Mexico lawmakers. Solomon Pena was convicted earlier this year of conspiracy, weapons and other charges in the shootings, which took place December 2022 and January 2023 at the homes of four Democratic officials, including the current state House speaker. Prosecutors, who had sought a 90-year sentence, said Pena had shown no remorse for the incidents in Albuquerque. They said he 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. Penas lawyers had sought a five-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. open image in gallery Solomon Pena lost the 2022 election by nearly 50 percentage points 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. The shootings targeted the homes of several 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. However, in one case bullets passed through the bedroom of a state senators 10-year-old daughter. Two other men who had earlier acknowledged helping Pena with the attacks previously pleaded guilty to federal charges. Both received years-long prison sentences. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Nine people have pleaded not guilty to vote harvesting amid a widening elections investigation in a rural Texas county. The defendants, who include a former mayor and city council member, as well as the chief of staff to a state representative, appeared Wednesday at a hearing in Pearsall, Texas. Vote harvesting is a felony that often involves payment for collecting and dropping off other voters absentee ballots. The nine defendants were indicted in late June. In May, six other people among them, Frio County Judge Rochelle Camacho were indicted as part of the investigation. It is being brought by Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton. The probe has been criticized by Latino rights activists as being politically driven. open image in gallery Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton ( AP ) One of the people who pleaded not guilty Wednesday was Juan Manuel Medina, who is the chief of staff for state Rep. Elizabeth Campos. Medina is also former chairman of the Democratic Party of Bexar County, where San Antonio is located. Medinas lawyer, Gerry Goldstein, declined to comment on Wednesday, saying: Im going to do my talking in the courtroom. On Wednesday, Goldstein filed a motion to dismiss the indictment against Medina, who is accused of providing compensation as a third party to two people for vote harvesting in February 2024. In the motion to dismiss, Goldstein said the vote-harvesting statute is over broad, vague and restricts Constitutionally protected rights to speech and to participate in the election and voting process in violation of the First Amendment. Goldstein said in the motion that the vote-harvesting statute would appear to punish a broad range of protected speech, including non-coercive voter assistance and core political expression, without requiring any actual voter fraud, coercion, or intimidation. This indictment charges Medina in a capacity that is not a crime and the indictment should be dismissed, Goldstein said in his 20-page motion. The vote-harvesting charges are third-degree felonies and carry up to 10 years in prison. The other people who were indicted in June are: Cecilia Castellano, a former candidate for state representative; Frio County Commissioner Raul Carrizales; former Dilley Mayor Mary Ann Obregon; former Dilley City Council member Inelda Rodriguez; Petra Davina Trevino, a former candidate for Pearsall city council; Pearsall school district trustee Mari Benavides; Susanna Carrizales; and Rachel Leal. Attorneys for Raul Carrizales, Susanna Carrizales, Castellano, Obregon and Rodriguez did not immediately return calls seeking comment. Attorneys for Benavides, Leal and Trevino could not immediately be reached for comment. Paxtons office and 81st Judicial District Attorney Audrey Gossett Louis, whose office presented the case to a grand jury with the Texas Attorney Generals Office, did not return a call or email seeking comment. In July, Paxton said that any elected official trying to cheat the system will have to answer for it. Under my watch, attempts to rig elections and silence the will of the voters will be met with the full force of the law. I will continue to fight to ensure Texas has free and fair elections, Paxton said. The indictments were the latest development in an investigation that Paxton started after the 2020 election to root out voter fraud, which is rare and typically occurs in isolated instances. Texas has tightened its voter laws in recent years and increased penalties that Democrats and opponents say are attempts to suppress turnout among Black and Latino voters. A federal appeals court in 2024 upheld the states law that tightened voter restrictions and increased penalties for vote harvesting. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Nearly three decades after an 11-year-old Illinois girl vanished, a man has been charged with her murder. Jamison Albert Fisher, 50, was indicted Wednesday on three counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicidal death, WQAD8 reported. The 11-year-old was last seen leaving her familys home in Moline, about 165 miles west of Chicago, on August 21, 1996. Authorities said Appleby was seen getting into a gray vehicle with an unidentified man. That same day, she had asked to go swimming with a friend, but her father said no. Phone records indicated that she decided to go anyway. Fisher is accused of kidnapping and strangling Appleby, then concealing her death, according to Henry County States Attorney Catherine Runty. Fisher does not face kidnapping charges because the statute of limitations has expired. Applebys body has never been recovered, though authorities continued investigating as her mysterious disappearance has haunted the community for nearly 30 years. Jamison Albert Fisher has been charged with the murder of Trudy Appleby who was 11 when she vanished in 1996. ( Scott County Jail / The National Center For Missing & Exploited Children ) Its unclear if Fisher and Appleby had any relationship before her killing. Fisher was previously named a person of interest in the case in 2020, along with another man who has since died, according to CBS News. Fisher was already in the Scott County Jail in Iowa on an unrelated probation violation and will remain there pending further court proceedings, according to KWQC. The arrest of Fisher marks a turning point in this mystery that has spanned nearly three decades. While nothing can bring back young Trudy to her family, the relentless pursuit of justice honors her memory and the unwavering support of her loved ones and our community, Moline Police Chief Darren Gault said. The Moline Police Department is committed to seeking the truth for Trudy and her family and to ensure that justice is served. Every year, Applebys family hosts a vigil on the day she went missing to remember her and bring attention to her case. This years vigil is set to be held at 7 p.m.on August 21 at the Moline Police Department. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Federal prosecutors are seeking the death penalty against a member of the radical 'Zizians' group accused of murdering a U.S. agent in Vermont. Milo Youngblut, 21, was stopped by border cops on January 20 after being put under surveillance by the Department of Homeland Security while apparently shopping for houses near Coventry in the north of the state. When the agents asked them to exit their vehicle, the privately-schooled Seattleite allegedly drew a pistol and opened fire, killing border agent David 'Chris' Maland and sparking a gunfight that left their traveling companion Ophelia Bauckholt dead. In court documents filed Thursday, acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher charged Youngblut (who is reportedly non-binary and known in court records as Teresa) with Maland's murder and said he would seek execution for the willful killing of a U.S. officer. The decision is part of a wider push by the Trump administration to execute more criminal defendants, with Youngblut's case one of two specifically mentioned by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi when she ordered prosecutors to seek capital punishment wherever possible this February. open image in gallery Milo Youngblut seen on surveillance footage while visiting the Newport City Inn in Vermont, six days before their arrest ( Newport City Inn surveillance video image via AP, File ) "We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and borders," acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti said in a press release. The deaths of Maland and Bauckholt are among six killings connected to the so-called 'Zizians', a radical network of hardcore vegans that split off from Silicon Valley's eccentric 'rationalist' subculture in 2019, and which U.S. officials have described as a violent extremist group. Michelle Zajko, another Zizian whom feds accuse of supplying the weapons carried by Youngblut and Bauckholt during the Vermont shootout, has denied those claims, writing in an open letter from jail that she and her friends are "not a murder cult" and are victims of a transphobic smear campaign. Other incidents linked to the group include the murder of Zajko's parents on New Year's Eve 2022, a deadly confrontation with California landlord Curtis Lind in November 2022, and the murder of Lind this January as he was due to testify in court. Youngbluts connection to all this remains unclear. But news reports have described them as being deeply influenced by the writings of the Zizians alleged leader Ziz LaSota, and later living with Bauckholt and LaSota in North Carolina. In June, Youngblut's defense lawyers accused the government of skipping procedural safeguards in a rush for the death penalty, and had asked the judge to give them more time, but were refused. Elite student who ran away to join cult According to The Cut, Youngblut grew up homeschooled in a devoutly Christian family in Seattle, before attending the super-selective private high school where both Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos sent their kids. That was reportedly where they became besotted with Maximilian Snyder, an Oxford-educated data scientist two grades above them who would later be charged with killing Curtis Lind. The pair reportedly embarked on an intense BDSM romance, obsessing over esoteric online theories. Youngblut is said to have secretly moved out of their parents house and cut off contact, causing the university counselling service to suggest they had become "part of a cult, or a dominant, abusive relationship". By July 2023 Youngblut and Snyder told their friends that they were embarking on a secret plan, seemingly influenced by LaSota's theories about saving the world from malevolent A.I. But the couple split up in November 2024, apparently leading Youngblut to fall in with LaSota's crew, According to a charging document filed by the FBI earlier this year, DHS agents in Vermont put Bauckholt and Youngblut under "periodic surveillance" on Jan 14. A hotel employee in Lyndonville had grown suspicious of their all-black "tactical" garb and visibly holstered pistols, and reported them to police. "Investigators with the Vermont State Police and Homeland Security Investigations attempted to initiate a consensual conversation with Bauckholt and Youngblut, but they declined to have an extended conversation, claiming that they were in the vicinity to look at purchasing property," the document said. On Jan 19, a border agent reported the pair to the U.S. Border Patrol. At 2:36 p.m. on Jan 20, according to DHS, a different agent stopped Bauckholt's Toyota Prius on Interstate 91 near Coventry. More agents arrived at 3pm, and the pair were told to exit their car. That, authorities allege, is when Youngblut drew their Glock. Prosecutors initially refused to say whose bullet killed Maland and took months to charge Youngblut with murder, sparking speculation that he was killed by friendly fire. But in May DHS and other law enforcement officials said that according to their investigation, Maland had been struck fatally in the neck by one of four shots fired by Youngblut. This story was originally published at 2:39 p.m. Pacific Time on Thursday August 14, 2025, and updated at 7:36 p.m. to add further details of Milo Youngbluts reported life and history, By Makiko Yamazaki TOKYO (Reuters) -Japanese manufacturers grew more confident about business conditions in August after a trade agreement between Tokyo and Washington, but remained cautious about the outlook due to potential U.S. tariff impacts, a Reuters Tankan poll showed. The monthly poll, which tracks the Bank of Japan's quarterly tankan business survey, showed the manufacturers' sentiment index rising to plus 9 in August from plus 7 in July, marking a second straight month of improvement. But the index is projected to decline to plus 4 over the next three months, signalling that manufacturers remain guarded about how the U.S. tariffs would impact their businesses. The poll, conducted between July 30 and August 8, surveyed 497 major non-financial companies, with 241 responding on condition of anonymity. Last month, Japan secured a trade deal with the U.S. that lowers tariffs on cars and other goods to 15% in exchange for a U.S.-bound $550 billion Japanese investment package that will come in the form of equity, loans and guarantees. Among manufacturers, the sentiment index for the transport machinery sector, which includes Japan's vital auto industry, surged to plus 25 in August from plus 9 in July. However, it is projected to slip back to plus 9 in November. "The business outlook remains uncertain as the U.S. tariff policies are forcing the entire automobile industry to overhaul its production plans," an auto industry manager wrote in the survey. Another manager from the sector cited slowing sales of Japanese cars in China, in addition to the U.S. tariffs, as a source of concern. The food industry saw the sharpest decline among all sectors, with its sentiment index falling to minus 25 from zero, with some managers pointing to persistent surges in ingredient and material costs. For non-manufacturers, the business sentiment index fell to plus 24 in August from plus 30 in July, its first decline in five months. Companies expect a slight rebound to plus 25 in the next three months. Real estate and construction firms, as well as retail firms, reported declines in their respective indexes, though they remained in positive territory, signalling that optimists outnumber pessimists. Some managers at retail firms cited a drop in store visitors, while a services firm manager said heatwaves were affecting business. (Reporting by Makiko Yamazaki; Editing by Himani Sarkar) Frya, 14 August 2025: The board of directors (the "Board") of Kaldvik AS (the "Company") and Roy-Tore Rikardsen have today agreed that Mr. Rikardsen will step down as CEO of the Company with immediate effect. Vidar Aspehaug will take the role as interim CEO while the Board initiates the search for a new permanent CEO. Vidar Aspehaug joined the Company in 2022 and has been part of the Company's executive management for the last three years, with responsibility for the fish health and quality management teams. Aspehaug holds a doctors degree in fish health from the University of Bergen and he is the founder and former CEO and CBDO of PatoGen AS, which is the most renowned fish health laboratory in Norway. We are grateful for Roy-Tore's contribution to the Company in the transitional period following the resignation of the former CEO and founder, says Asle Rnning, chair of the Board. I have been privileged to work with fantastic Collegues in Kaldvik AS and both the Company and the industry will have a great future in Icelandic business life the coming years says Rikardsen. Mr. Rikardsen will remain available to the Company until the end of February 2026 to ensure a smooth transition. The Board extends its gratitude to Rikardsen for his contribution by leading and developing the Company. For further information, please contact: Robert Robertsson, CFO: +354 843 0086 (mobile) About Kaldvik AS Kaldvik AS is the leading salmon farmer in Iceland. Kaldvik AS has a well-developed and fully integrated value-chain controlling all steps from hatchery to sales, enabling the group to provide its customers with a sustainable premium product. Kaldvik AS is dual-listed on Euronext Growth Oslo and First North Iceland Growth Market. See https://www.kaldvik.is for more information about the Company. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act James Husband gives a presentation on the dangers of vaping at Istrouma High School during the Vaping Town Hall on Thursday, October 24, 2024. The event was part of The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living, research and outreach conducted by the Louisiana Public Health Institute. Kazakhstan, one of the worlds largest bitcoin mining countries, has become the location of central Asia's first spot bitcoin (BTC) exchange-traded fund (ETF). Astana-based Fonte Capital said the Fonte Bitcoin Exchange Traded Fund OEIC (BETF) will start trading Aug. 13 on the Astana International Exchange (AIX). The ETF will be priced in dollars. Kazakhstan shot up the bitcoin mining rankings after China banned the industry in 2021, pushing operations abroad. Kazakhstan benefited from its abundant coal-powered electricity and favorable regulations. Unlike exchange-traded notes, BETF holds the bitcoin directly, with custody provided by U.S.-regulated custodian BitGo that insures up to $250 million of holdings. BitGo uses offline cold storage and secure vaults measures designed to reassure both institutional investors and retail buyers wary of hacks and counterparty risks. The fund is regulated by the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), a jurisdiction that its backers say can shield assets from freezes linked to international sanctions while avoiding dependence on foreign issuers. The AIFC has sought to build on that position by introducing a legal framework for digital assets, allowing licensed exchanges, custodians and investment products to operate within its jurisdiction. Neighboring countries in Central Asia, such as Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, have taken more cautious approaches, leaving Kazakhstan as the most open market for crypto investment in the region. For a country looking to diversify its financial sector, a regulated crypto product could draw foreign capital and integrate local markets into the broader digital asset economy The ETFs structure allows for in-kind settlements and aims to keep the total expense ratio low while reducing tracking error against the bitcoin price. BETFs debut aligns Kazakhstan with a growing global roster of jurisdictions including the U.S., Canada and Hong Kong that have approved spot bitcoin ETFs. In practice, it means that an investor in Almaty or London could buy shares in the fund through AIX without needing to manage private keys or navigate crypto exchanges. Fonte Capital, which registered with AIFC in 2022, manages diversified investment funds and said BETF will give investors a straightforward way to add bitcoin to a portfolio while retaining a high level of control and reliability. Stella Prize winner Evelyn Araluen is among a growing number of authors to withdraw from the Bendigo Writers Festival in protest over restrictions on their freedom of speech, in the latest sign of the deep divisions that have erupted in the literary world over the war in Gaza. Event participants were given a code of conduct, seen by this masthead, that said they must avoid language or topics that could be considered inflammatory, divisive, or disrespectful. Stella Prize winner Evelyn Araluen has withdrawn from the Bendigo Writers Festival. Credit: Scott McNaughton The code of conduct also required compliance with La Trobe Universitys definition of antisemitism. La Trobe has adopted the Universities Australia definition, which several universities around the country have not accepted, saying it conflates antisemitism with criticism of the Israeli government and anti-Zionism, and therefore prohibits people speaking out. Last month, Australias special envoy to combat antisemitism, Jillian Segal, detailed a proposal that would stipulate taxpayer funding to be withheld from universities, programs or people within institutions that facilitate, enable or fail to act against antisemitism, while academics who engage in antisemitism would be subject to job termination. Advertisement Eating outHot & new Novelty or necessity? Our verdict on Melbournes new lasagne pocket sandwiches The creator has never seen anything like them in Italy and theyre billed as Australias first lasagne sandwich. But does Melbourne need pasta you can eat with your hands? Daniela Frangos Tomas Telegramma and August 15, 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 One of Melbournes few dedicated lasagne restaurants, Lasagna Lab in Windsor, has opened a second location, right across from Queen Victoria Market in West Melbourne. Of course, there are slabs of the lasagne its built its name on since 2020. But theres also the tasca: essentially a lasagne pocket, which the team is billing as Australias first lasagne sandwich. Wagyu bolognese lasagne in hand-held form? Justin McManus While weve eaten lasagne-in-bread sangers before, these are wrapped up in the same kind of pasta sheets used in the lasagne itself. Chef-owner Mattia Aloisio says he hasnt seen anything like them in Italy. I came up with this idea because I wanted to have the lasagne eaten like a sandwich if you are walking down the street, at the park, in the car. Melbourne loves pasta almost as much as it loves sandwiches, so Good Food sent two writers to taste-test a few of Lasagna Labs lasagne pockets. Advertisement First impressions Daniela Frangos: Ill admit Im apprehensive. Can we improve upon the classic lasagne? My Italian genes urge me to respect tradition. The plates arrive and the pockets are far bigger than I expected, and well filled. You could definitely share a couple between two (evinced by the hashtag #LetsLasagnaTogether written on the blackboard out front). Tomas Telegramma: Ive consumed a lot of pasta in my life, but never in a handheld context like this. They dont immediately scream lasagne. Each is like one big rectangular raviolo, crimped edges included, but cut in half and propped up like a burrito. Its blonder than I expected, but if it were any crisper, it would likely crack, causing a blowout. 1 / 5 Wagyu bolognese lasagne is topped with fior di latte mozzarella. Justin McManus 2 / 5 ...followed by napoli. Justin McManus 3 / 5 Its then folded into a lasagna sheet to make a pocket. Justin McManus 4 / 5 The lasagna pocket is deep-fried until crunchy and golden. Justin McManus 5 / 5 The finished wagyu bolognese pocket. Justin McManus Previous Slide Next Slide The eating experience Advertisement DF: I was bracing for mess but the pockets hold their structure surprisingly well, making this a legit vessel for transporting saucy, cheesy fillings particularly handy if you want to browse the nearby market. The fried pasta sheets are almost a cross between crostoli (crisp-fried Italian pastry) and wonton wrappers, and add an even more decadent element to the lasagne experience. TT: Ive had countless sandwiches and wraps far messier to eat than these pockets. But just because you could feasibly eat one while on the go, Im not sure youd want to. (A tip: oil-slicked fingertips are impossible to avoid, so stock up on napkins.) Related Article We tried Melbournes new drive-through banh mi spot. This is our verdict The fillings Our writers try three of the four pockets on offer, ranging from unlikely (seafood) to classic. Advertisement Salmon and prawn ($18) DF: Seafood and cheese? Some will disagree; Im all for it. The first bite is all lemon and chives and stringy mozzarella before you hit prawns and Ora King salmon in creamy bechamel. The filling needs more cohesion for me. The salmon and prawn pocket. Justin McManus TT: The garnish of crumbled macadamias throws me from the get-go and the confusion continues. I expected pasta layers within, but there are none. (There arent meant to be, Aloisio later confirms.) The richness calls for more lemon. Pork and fennel sausage ($17) Advertisement DF: This is the one Im most looking forward to (hello ragu and smoky scamorza cheese) but its a little oily for my liking. Combined with deep-fried pasta, it needs some acidity or freshness, which we get only a touch of from the radicchio. TT: Melty scamorza makes for an inches-long cheese pull and brings a slight smokiness. But overall this is a little one-note, especially given the pickled radicchio on top is not at all bitter. Pork and fennel ragu pocket with pickled radicchio. Justin McManus Bolognese ($16) DF: The most popular choice, and for good reason. Sugo plus wagyu and stringy mozzarella is everything you want from lasagne. The silky pasta sheets inside are also well-defined here and conspicuously absent from the other two pockets, suddenly making me question their validity as lasagne Advertisement TT: The undisputed MVP (most valuable pocket), this is Lasagna Labs signature item packed into a parcel and it shows. Tender pasta sheets hold their form, swirled throughout clusters of minced wagyu and classic sugo. Wagyu bolognese (front), with the seafood and sausage pockets. Justin McManus Would I return? DF: At $16 the bolognese pocket is a steal and cheaper than the average sandwich. But I prefer the silkiness of a baked lasagne over the deep-fried version here. Im more likely to return for that wagyu bolognese folded between luxurious pasta sheets. TT: Ive done my dash with the pockets, but Ill be back for that winter-warming wagyu bolognese lasagne in its regular form. Advertisement Related Article This A+ spiced-up Chinese bolognese toastie has a satisfying cheese pull The verdict Melbourne might not have been crying out for a lasagne you can eat with your hands, but for fans of the layered pasta dish, these pockets are a novelty worth trying, especially for regular Queen Victoria Market-goers. The more classic fillings are the strongest. And the best part? If you dont want a pocket, you can get a plain old lasagne. 87 Peel Street, West Melbourne, lasagnalab.com.au Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox. Sign up 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 Entering Sydneys largest underground rail cavern, you are struck by a mass of blue-coloured waterproof lining that covers its walls and ceiling. At 28 metres wide and 180 metres long, the size of the cavern built beneath the northern end of central Sydney for the $25.3 billion Metro West line is breathtaking. Yet what is not obvious is how close it comes to buildings, existing rail tunnels and critical power cables for the CBD. Illustrating the challenge for contractors, the top of the cavern sits just six metres below the foundations of a 169-year-old heritage hotel built from sandstone. Once opened in 2032, the Hunter Street metro station will become the hub for train travel in and out of the northern part of the CBD. It will connect existing heavy rail and metro stations at Martin Place to Wynyard, allowing people to switch between multiple lines without setting foot above ground. The size of the cavern for the Metro West station beneath Hunter Street is breathtaking. Credit: Steven Siewert It will be bigger than both Victoria Cross station in North Sydney and the Martin Place metro station, which is the busiest on the M1 line between the citys north-west and Sydenham. The reason for its size is simple. While it is forecast to handle 10,000 passengers an hour when it opens in 2032, the only station in the CBD for Metro West is being built for a staggering 40,000 people an hour. Sydney Metro chief executive Peter Regan said the station was being built to be bigger than others to cater for the very large volume of people entering and exiting at the same time, and major growth over coming decades. Advertisement The complexity of what youre seeing down in that cavern is like nothing weve done before in terms of the scale of what is being built under the city. It will become the biggest rail cavern in Australia, he said. Hunter Street will be a very busy station because its the end of the line, and its the only station in the CBD [for Metro West]. In comparison, the M1 line has four stations in the central city Barangaroo, Martin Place, Gadigal and Central which means passenger loads during the peak periods are spread, instead of concentrated on one. Initially, six-carriage driverless trains will run on the 24-kilometre line between Parramatta and the CBD every four minutes in each direction. However, the 180-metre-long stations on the Metro West line allow for trains as long as eight carriages to eventually be operated. Its designed very much to grow as a station, Regan said. A tunnel that will connect the existing Martin Place metro station to the new Hunter Street station for Metro West. Credit: Steven Siewert Hunter and Pyrmont stations construction manager Dave Maytom said one of the challenges was the wide span of the cavern and the fact that it was, on average, only about 10 metres beneath the surface. That is very shallow. To create a large hole, you need a body of rock to support itself above that cavern, he said, explaining that to provide support a type of concrete known as shotcrete up to half a metre thick was applied. Working in that city environment is hugely challenging. About 28,000 tonnes of concrete have been poured to form the cavern floor, leaving more than a third of its construction completed. Excavation of the cavern and most of the connecting tunnels was finished in May. Advertisement Two giant boring machines are due to break through into the cavern by the end of the year, which will complete twin tunnels between the Bays precinct at Rozelle and the CBD. It will mark a shift for the mega project from digging tunnels and giant holes to building and fitting out stations, as well as the laying of rail tracks and installation of vital equipment. At the western end of the cavern beneath Hunter Street, three giant concrete pillars serve as structural supports for the roof, and will be where three tunnels each about eight metres wide will enter, one of which will be for passengers. Saint Barbara, who is patron saint of tunnellers and engineers, has watched over excavation of the subterranean cathedral-like cavern. Credit: Steven Siewert At the eastern end, a giant shaft is being dug from street level into the cavern. It will serve as the other entrance to the station. Passengers will make their way down via banks of escalators and lifts to a concourse level, before taking another set of escalators to the platforms. The forecast volume of passengers is such that Sydney Metro, a government agency, is considering widening a pedestrian link under George Street between Wynyard station and the western end of Hunter Street station. A direct pedestrian link will be built between the Hunter Street station concourse and the platform level at the existing Martin Place metro station. Importantly, passengers will not need to pass through ticket gates to walk between the two. Transport Minister John Graham said the station would be at the middle of an underground spiderweb of connections in the CBD. It will open up direct connectivity to every metro line and every train line without ever having to go above ground to cross a street, he said. [It] is an engineering feat of which the numbers tell the story of its scale. Advertisement Community tensions over the erosion of a Central Coast beach erupted in violence when an elected councillor and a beachfront home owner allegedly became involved in a physical altercation that resulted in police laying charges. Residents of the picturesque beachfront suburb of Wamberal have been locked in a bitter feud on one side, beachfront home owners are campaigning for a seawall they say will save their homes, on the other side, the group Save our Sand argues a wall will destroy the beach for the rest of the community. Damage to homes at Wamberal in 2020. Credit: Nick Moir That feud reached new heights on Tuesday when, just after 3pm, police were called to the beach after reports of a violent altercation. Warren Hughes, a beachfront home owner, as well as Central Coast councillor and Save Our Sand campaigner Corinne Lamont, and her husband, Mark, were all involved in the confrontation near Pacific Street. Victorian Liberal MP Michael OBrien was in the midst of a spiel about the states budget woes in the lower house on Wednesday when he picked at an old scab. OBrien brought up the corrupt CFMEU. And he mentioned the close relationship the embattled union enjoyed with some politicians in the Labor Party. Ah, that old chestnut. Luba Grigorovitch, former state secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union, and now Labor MP. Credit: Eddie Jim And who would interject with a point of order on relevance but ex-Rail, Tram and Bus Union national-president-turned-Labor MP Luba Grigorovitch? Youll remember that the backbencher was a staunch supporter of former CFMEU boss, John Setka, before everything that went down last year. But we were surprised to hear her pipe up at work. CBD hasnt heard her uttering the name of you-know-who in parliament since her heartfelt tribute to Johns dad, the late Bob Boze Setka, in 2023, during which she referred to the then-CFMEU state secretary, Johnny, as a brother. The cost of rolling out explicit teaching plans across Victorian schools has blown out by $1.6 million, with some plans delayed by almost 12 months. In June 2024, Victorias Education Minister Ben Carroll announced high-quality lesson plans in English, maths, science, design and digital technologies that would place explicit teaching in every classroom. But the digital platform used to host and distribute the lesson plans called ARC 4.0 has been delayed by almost 12 months as suppliers redesigned content to align with the Victorian Teaching and Learning 2.0 model. Teaching plans for phonics, maths and English have been in use in classrooms for much of this year, and the science teaching plan was launched on Thursday, but the resources for design technology and digital technology have yet to be deployed. WHERE AM I? Where is this bar located? Credit: Justin McManus Melbournes most-inundated bar originally opened as a summer pop-up and has now been serving up drinks for 15 years. Where is the bar located, and what is its name? Check next weeks quiz for the answer. Last weeks WHERE AM I? The former GJ Coles and David Jones menswear building has reopened as Meccas flagship store at 299 Bourke Street. 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 In this special series, The Age focuses on Melbournes western suburbs to see how life could improve in Australias fastest-growing region. See all 4 stories . Apprentice electrician Dylan DEmanuele is a young man whose world has just opened up. Its only mid-afternoon and the 22-year-old is physically drained from a days work on site in Brunswick, but he is cheery and hopeful. For the first time, he can see a bright future, thanks to the recent support of employment organisation Youth Projects and the lifelong love (and occasional hectoring) of his grandmother, who raised him from infancy. Im just really tired, sure. But am I excited about the future? Yes, I am. Its been like a long-time dream come true for me, DEmanuele says. After he completed year 12 at Taylors Lakes Secondary College, DEmanuele sought work in a trade. The experience was crushing. He estimates he spent 100 days cold-calling electricians and being rejected even being told to f--- off. That really stunted me, he says. I was like, maybe its not them, maybe its me. Just that rejection it does get to you, it makes you feel like youre worthless. A youth employment agency paired him with a tradesperson, but it was a punishing experience. DEmanuele had to make a daily round trip of more than 150 kilometres to Clyde North. He says he was paid a flat weekly rate of $600, but made to work unpaid overtime and given minimal guidance. Advertisement Just a stereotypical tradie, not really showing me the ropes, yelling at me, he says of his former employer. DEmanuele feels grateful that he was eventually connected with Youth Projects, which assists youths aged 16 to 24 who have experienced long-term unemployment or who have disengaged from education. The organisation began working in Melbournes west in 2022, with a caseload of about 520 young people, which has ballooned to 1900. Over coming months, The Age is strengthening its focus on Melbournes booming west, with a special series examining the positives and challenges the region faces. In October, our reporters will moderate a West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) summit to discuss a vision for the western suburbs success. The alliance of university, industry, community and local government experts works to unlock the wests economic potential. Employment data for Melbournes west presents a troubling contradiction. Overall, the situation is getting healthier. In the year to June 2025, the wests unemployment rate fell from 6.2 per cent to 5.6 per cent, bucking a statewide trend in which Victorias jobless rate rose minimally, from 4.5 to 4.6 per cent. Advertisement But for younger people, the picture is not encouraging. The youth unemployment rate rose from 11.5 per cent to 14 per cent. Statewide, it also ticked upwards, but not so sharply from 9.9 to 10.5 per cent. The widening gap suggests young workers in Melbournes west are vulnerable, WoMEDA said in a report on economic conditions in the region. In tight labour market conditions, employers are more willing to look to them to address their shortages. As conditions ease, younger-aged workers are some of the first to be let go, the report said. Its a vulnerability Chris Lacey sees first-hand, every day. Lacey is general manager of programs at west suburban youth support organisation the Les Twentyman Foundation. Were trying to get young people to 12 weeks of consistently showing up every day, which really means that we can say, well, thats now a sustainable job, Lacey says. Advertisement Its a bar made higher by the paucity of local career opportunities, and the fact that long commutes can be the difference between success and failure. If we can find a kid a job, but its an hour and a half each way because they need to get two trains and a bus to get to work, then were not setting that kid up for success, Lacey says. Thats a real challenge for us at the moment. In the outer west, many first-time local job opportunities are in construction, on greenfield housing estates that can only be reached by driving. Loading There are not even buses in these places. Youre trying to get a 17-year-old out to a worksite out the back of Melton somewhere. For Lacey, the wests high youth unemployment rate reflects the relative dearth of investment in local infrastructure. Unless something changes, the influx of families into Melbournes western growth corridors will raise a lost generation of unemployed teens, he says. Advertisement Weve been told that Sunshine is going to be another CBD, that all these jobs are going to flow through, but it just hasnt happened, so wheres the investment? Weve got people living in the outskirts of Melbourne. Were building these new suburbs. What are we doing to create a sustainable environment where people can get to work in a reasonable amount of time? Young people in the west are eager for skilled work. University of Melbourne data shows the number of enrolled students from Wyndham rose by 15 per cent in the five years to 2024, with the most popular courses being bachelors of science, arts, commerce and biomedicine. A spokesman for the state government said it was delivering targeted employment and training to help young people enter the workforce, including building two new TAFE campuses in Melton and Sunbury that will open in 2028. Youth Projects chief executive Trent Miller with Dylan DEmanuele. The organisation helped Dylan get a job where he is thriving. Credit: Joe Armao But Youth Projects chief executive Trent Miller says research has found that it is taking longer for young people to gain a foothold in todays jobs market. What we know is that young people are always going to start out in lower-skilled jobs, Miller says. Advertisement Kodak announced in a Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filing on Monday that there was "substantial doubt" about the company's ability to stay in business. The company plans to pay off some of its debt and preferred stock using money it expects to get back from its pension plan. The company is hoping to change the terms, push out due dates or refinance its remaining debt and preferred stock obligations, which are payments promised to holders of special shares that usually get paid before regular shareholders. Kodak Lands $765M Us Loan Under Defense Production Act To Boost Drug Production Still, since these plans depend on things outside Kodaks control, they aren't considered reliable under U.S. accounting rules. Because of this, there's serious concern about whether the company can stay in business, as of the date it released its second-quarter financial results, according to the filing. A Kodak spokesperson told FOX Business that the "going concern" language in the filing was a "required disclosure because Kodaks debt comes due within 12 months of the filing" and that the company is confident it will pay off a significant portion of its term loan well before its due. It is also confident that it will amend, extend or refinance its remaining debt and/or preferred stock obligations, the spokesperson added. To fund the repayment, the company said it plans to draw on the approximately $300 million in cash it expects to receive from the reversion and settlement of its U.S. pension fund, known as the Kodak Retirement Income Plan, or "KRIP," in December. But given that the reversion is not solely within Kodaks control, it is not deemed "probable" under U.S. GAAP accounting rules, which is what triggered the "going concern" language. Read On The Fox Business App "Once the KRIP reversion is completed Kodak will be virtually net debt free and will have a stronger balance sheet than we have had in years," the spokesperson said. Kodak plans to pay off some of its debt and preferred stock using money it expects to get back from its pension plan. Kodak pioneered film photography and dominated the market for much of the 20th century. It became a household name, known for products like disposable cameras, and at its peak, controlled over 80% of the U.S. film market. Kodak invented the first digital camera in 1975, but failed to embrace the technology, fearing it would cannibalize its film business. Worlds Most Powerful Digital Camera Captures Historic First Images Kodak at one time dominated the U.S. film market. When digital photography took over, Kodaks core business collapsed. While it eventually tried to jump into the digital photography game, it struggled to keep up with emerging competitors like Canon, Sony and Nikon, all of which embraced it early on. 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. 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. So what might happen? The good Trump likes to take the meeting. Thats his attitude in business as in politics: get face-to-face with the big fish and see where things go. He even did so with North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un in his first term. President Donald Trump tried to bring North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in from the cold during his first term. Credit: AP He is incredulous when people criticise him for cultivating a relationship with Putin. Of course, he talks to the Russian leader, he says. What can you achieve if no ones talking? Even so, the US president, not known for understatement, has played down expectations for the encounter. He calls it a feel-out meeting, which will set the scene for a second summit with Zelensky in attendance. But first, he wants to gauge where Putins at. Loading That suggests to me that theyre recognising, maybe, theyve bitten off more than they want to chew, said John Herbst, a former US ambassador to Ukraine under George W. Bush, now senior director of the Atlantic Councils Eurasia Centre. He believes the summit is a misstep not ipso facto, but because of the rhetoric in the lead-up. But it need not be a disaster, Herbst said. To me, the summit at best will show Trump going no further than he [already] is in accommodating Putin. The bad There is a question, however, over who gains what out of this event. Trumps press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed it was Putins idea to meet now, though Trump has long been open to the idea. Meeting at the US Elmendorf Air Force Base a convenient near-halfway point between Moscow and Washington has been seen by some as a Putin concession to Trump. But Herbst said the location also does something which Putin likes, which is it demonstrates that he is not a war criminal in the United States. As does the image of the Russian leader shaking hands with an American president for the first time since 2021. Nothing that comes of the meeting can bind Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky; he can simply say no to the suggested land swapping Trump has foreshadowed. But that risks Trump washing his hands of the matter, saying I tried and withdrawing US military support. Herbst said it was a step backwards after Trump spent the past two months increasing pressure on Putin over a ceasefire and agreeing to further arms for Ukraine. In 24 hours, Trump went from ramping up pressure on Russia to agreeing on a summit to agreeing against his own preference that the summit would be a bilateral, as opposed to a summit that includes Zelensky, he said. The optics of a meeting on US soil are likely to appeal to Vladmir Putin. Credit: AP All the talk around the summit and its possible results focuses on concessions that Ukraine would be required to make. There is no reference to what Russia must do, what concessions Russia must accept to have a ceasefire. The ugly Trump has been known to echo Russian talking points on Ukraine. In February, he criticised Zelensky for not holding elections (martial law was declared after Putins invasion), and wrongly claimed the Ukrainian leader had a 4 per cent approval rating. He has a tendency to value what he has most recently heard. There is every chance he will be endeared to some of Putins propaganda, especially on claims about rightful territory. Zelensky has said Ukraine will not give up any territory as part of a peace deal. Credit: Getty Images If Trump leaves there and starts to pressure Zelensky on land, thats going to be a problem, says Herbst. If we hear more that Zelensky started the war, then you know that hes swallowed the line from Putin and is heading fully in that unhappy direction. I think thats possible, but not likely. Others are more cynical. Michael McFaul, a former US ambassador to Russia under Barack Obama, said it was unusual and dangerous to go into a high-level meeting with no idea of the outcome. Second quarter net income of $100 million , EBITDA 1 of $325 million and Adjusted EBITDA 1 of $346 million , EBITDA of and Adjusted EBITDA of Second quarter total throughput of 858,000 barrels-per-day (bpd), crude processing of 816,000 bpd and overall average crude utilization rate of 101% Quarter-end liquidity of $2.6 billion , including full availability under CITGO's $500 million accounts receivable securitization facility HOUSTON, Aug. 14, 2025 -- CITGO Petroleum Corporation ("CITGO" or "CITGO Petroleum") today reported its 2025 second quarter financial and operational results. Reliable operations in a more supportive market environment led to second quarter net income of $100 million, EBITDA of $325 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $346 million, compared to a net loss of $(82) million and EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA of $88 million for the first quarter of 2025. "Our refineries continued to run well throughout the second quarter, with high utilization rates, strong process safety performance and no planned downtime," said CITGO President and CEO Carlos Jorda. "The Lake Charles Refinery achieved another record high crude processing rate, the Corpus Christi Refinery continued to increase its light crude processing and the Lemont Refinery maximized jet fuel production in a favorable market. In the second half of the year, we plan to advance key strategic projects, although we have rescheduled turnaround activities at the Lemont and Lake Charles Refineries to 2026 for optimal execution." Operational Highlights Operational Excellence Excellent process safety and reliability performance resulted in strong refinery operations during the quarter, including: Total throughput for the second quarter was 858,000 bpd, of which crude runs were 816,000 bpd and overall average crude utilization rate was 101%, reflecting three consecutive months of utilization at 100% or greater. Strong operational performance continued at the Lake Charles Refinery, with a new quarterly crude processing rate of 478,000 bpd, up from the previous record of 460,000 bpd in the first quarter, and an average crude utilization rate of 103%. Monthly crude rate records were reached in both May and June, with the best ever performance of 482,000 bpd in June. Also in June, the refinery achieved a new monthly total distillate production record. The Lemont Refinery continued its strong performance during the second quarter as well, with an average crude utilization rate of 101%, achieving monthly and quarterly jet fuel production records. The Lemont Refinery also received the 2024 Grand Slam Railroad Award, a recognition by four major railroads for exemplary shipping performance. Strong reliability and process safety performance at the Corpus Christi Refinery contributed to an average crude utilization rate of 95% for the second quarter, while the refinery increased its light crude processing from 41% in the first quarter to 57% in the second quarter. Strong safety and environmental performance continued in the Lubricants and Terminals and Pipeline (TPL) business units. During the second quarter, Lubricants had no recordable injuries, process safety events or environmental incidents, while TPL had no process safety events or environmental incidents. The TPL business unit also received the 2024 Safety Excellence Award from the International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA). Commercial Excellence CITGO's Marketing and TPL business units both delivered solid results for the second quarter. Marketing sales volume was 431,000 bpd, up slightly from the previous quarter, and Club CITGO loyalty gallons hit an all-time high of 6.2 million gallons in May, with an 8% increase in member visits. Additionally, the East Chicago truck rack set a new daily record for gasoline loadings, and the Sour Lake Pipeline (which delivers domestic crude oil to the Lake Charles Refinery) set a daily maximum pumping rate of nearly 297,000 bpd. When the Sour Lake expansion project is completed later this year, pipeline capacity will increase to 320,000 bpd. Financial Highlights Turnaround and catalyst expenditures in the second quarter totaled $36 million , with an additional $105 million in direct capital expenditures made during the quarter. Projected turnaround, catalyst and capital expenditures for 2025 were reduced from approximately $960 million to approximately $696 million to reflect the rescheduling of turnaround activities at the Lemont and Lake Charles Refineries noted above. , with an additional in direct capital expenditures made during the quarter. Projected turnaround, catalyst and capital expenditures for 2025 were reduced from approximately to approximately to reflect the rescheduling of turnaround activities at the Lemont and Lake Charles Refineries noted above. Quarter-end liquidity was $2.6 billion , including full availability under CITGO's $500 million accounts receivable securitization facility. , including full availability under CITGO's accounts receivable securitization facility. In April 2025, CITGO retired $50 million of outstanding secured industrial revenue bonds with cash on hand. About CITGO CITGO owns and operates three large-scale, highly complex petroleum refineries with a total rated crude oil refining capacity of approximately 807,000 bpd, located in Lake Charles, La., Corpus Christi, Texas, and Lemont, Ill. Our refining operations are supported by an extensive distribution network, which provides reliable access to our refined product end-markets. We own 34 active refined product terminals with a total storage capacity of 18.1 million barrels and have equity ownership of an additional 3.5 million barrels of refined product storage capacity through our joint ownership of an additional 8 terminals, spread across 22 states. In addition, we own or have an equity interest in four additional terminals, consisting of approximately 1 million barrels of refined storage capacity, which are currently inactive or only utilized to store feedstocks used in refining operations. We also have access to approximately 150 active third-party and related-party terminals through exchange, terminalling and similar arrangements. Our retail network consists of more than 4,000 independently owned and operated CITGO-branded retail outlets located east of the Rocky Mountains. CITGO and its predecessors have had a recognized brand presence in the U.S. for more than 100 years. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION General: CITGO publishes financial and other information on its website, including reports of quarterly and annual results of operations. While CITGO's historical financial information is presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"), CITGO is not an SEC reporting company and does not report all information required of SEC reporting companies. In addition, CITGO publishes certain non-GAAP financial information, including EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, as discussed below. Operational Metrics and Non-GAAP Financial Measures: This press release also contains operational metrics and non-GAAP financial information, including EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Refinery EBITDA Estimates, that have not been audited and are based on management's estimates, which may be difficult to verify. These non-GAAP financial measures are presented in addition to, and should not be viewed as a substitute for or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. In addition, CITGO's non-GAAP financial measures may differ from non-GAAP measures used by other companies in our industry. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures, when presented in conjunction with comparable GAAP measures, provide useful supplemental information regarding underlying trends in the Company's operating performance by excluding items that may not be indicative of the Company's core operating performance. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered a substitute for financial information presented in accordance with GAAP. Please see the reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP measure set forth on page [4] of this press release, as well as the reconciliation of Refinery EBITDA Estimates to CITGO's total consolidated EBITDA set forth on page [5] of this press release. Reconciliation of Net Income to EBITDA (unaudited, in millions of U.S. dollars) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 ($ in millions) Net income (1) $ 100 $ (82) $ 18 $ 385 Excluding the impacts of: Interest expenses, net 17 17 34 21 Income tax expense 30 (25) 5 116 Depreciation and amortization 178 178 356 349 EBITDA $ 325 $ 88 $ 413 $ 871 One-time legacy environmental charge Legal Settlement 21 - 21 (32) Hurricane Laura Insurance Recoveries - - (13) Adjusted EBITDA $ 346 $ 88 $ 434 $ 826 (1) EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. The reconciliation of net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA is presented in the table above Reconciliation of Refinery EBITDA Estimates to Consolidated EBITDA (unaudited, in millions of U.S. dollars) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, 2025 March 31, 2025 June 30, 2025 June 30, 2024 ($MM) Lake Charles 194 126 320 521 Corpus Christi 57 (23) 34 61 Lemont 98 26 124 275 Total Refinery EBITDA Estimate (1) $ 349 $ 129 $ 478 $ 857 Marketing 49 37 86 70 Lubricants 14 5 19 10 Terminals & Pipelines 50 54 104 89 Product Supply (2) (47) (62) (109) (49) Total EBITDA Estimate for Non-Refining Business Units $ 66 $ 34 $ 100 $ 120 Corporate EBITDA Estimate (3) (90) (75) (165) (106) Total CITGO Consolidated EBITDA $ 325 $ 88 $ 413 $ 871 1) Refinery EBITDA Estimates and EBITDA Estimates for the Non-Refining Business Units are non-GAAP financial measures. The table above includes further detail on a by refinery basis, as well as for CITGO's Non-Refining Business Units. CITGO's Consolidated EBITDA also reflects hedging activities associated with procuring crude and feedstocks for the refineries and other derivatives activities. (2) Includes activities related to selling refinery production both externally and to CITGO's Marketing function. (3) Includes corporate staff and overhead costs, and other corporate-related items. 1 EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. For additional information, please see "General Information Non-GAAP Financial Measures" on page 3 of this press release and the reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure on page 4 of this press release. SOURCE CITGO Petroleum Corporation Marco's Pizza, based in the US state of Ohio, has launched 41 new stores in the first half (H1) of 2025, signalling its international expansion and continued investment in franchisee performance. The brand's strategic, data-driven real estate approach, leveraging consumer behaviour insights and predictive tools, identifies untapped markets and drives growth despite rising capital costs and stiff competition. The company's new technology tools support a projected 28% increase in new store openings year-on-year. Marco's Pizza chief development officer Gerardo Flores stated: We entered 2025 with momentum from a very intentional development strategy and that pipeline is now turning into stores. Current franchisees, who accounted for close to 65% of the signed agreements in 2024, are actively growing with Marco's. To facilitate further growth, the brand recently introduced a franchise development royalty incentive programme, offering early-stage royalty incentives starting at 0% and providing comprehensive support in construction, real estate and operations to qualified multi-unit owners. Internationally, Marco's is celebrating a year since its first store opening in Mexico and a decade in Puerto Rico. The Mexico expansion, led by 50-unit master franchise partner Grupo Pizza Amantes, is set to reach three to four locations by the end of 2025. There are 66 locations across Puerto Rico, the Bahamas and Mexico, with plans for Canada and Latin America. Emphasising its "people first, mission always" philosophy, Marco's is scaling its "We're Golden" development programme to train franchisees across 700 outlets. In early 2025, it reintroduced longtime team member Joe Stephens as real estate vice-president to assist franchisees with site selection and real estate consultations. Stephens, who has been with the brand for 13 years, offers industry knowledge to expedite store openings in crucial markets. In April 2025, Marcos Pizza introduced Pepperoni Bread for a limited period in the US, priced at $5 at select outlets. "Marcos Pizza opens 41 new stores in H1 2025" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. 11 from UP killed as pickupvan rams into truck in Raj JAIPUR : APICK UP van crashed into a parked truck in Rajasthans Dausa district in the early hours of Wednesday, killing 11 Uttar Pradesh residents, including seven children, and injuring eight others, police said. The passengers of the pickup vehicle were returning to their village in Uttar PradeshsEtah after visitingKhatuShyam and Salasar Balaji temple when the accident occurred on Manoharpur highway around 4-5 am,DausaSuperintendent of Police Sagar told PTI. Seven children and four women diedin the accident, he said. DausaDeputy SPRaviprakashSharma said the deceased have been identified asMishthi(1),Babu (3),Poorvi (6),Lakshay (6), Vaishnavi (7), Mahak (7), Saloni (9), Sheela (20), Priyanka (25), Seema (25) and Sonam (32). Twentypeoplewereonboard the pickup vehicle when it rammedinto astationary truck in the service lane of the highway, the SP said, adding that one of the eight injured is in critical condition. Dr Anurag Dhakar from Jaipurs SMS Hospital, where some injured people were taken, said, Around 10 injured, including three women and three children, were brought here. Of them, one woman, Seema Devi, died while her husband Manoj is in the ICU. Threepatientshave suffered head injuries, while one of the threechildreniscritical,Dhakar added. Meanwhile, in Uttar Pradesh, a stunned silence fell over Etahs Asrauli village as news came that 11 of its residents were killed in the road crash in Rajasthan. District MagistratePremRanjanSingh, along with Senior Superintendent of Police and other officials, visited the bereaved families and assured all possible assistance. Largecrowdsofleaders,wellwishers and locals gathered in Asrauli to console the grieving families. We have sent a team from Etah to Dausa to support the victims relatives. The bodies will be brought back to Etah, DM Singh said. In view of the tragedy, the Lodhi Mahasabha has postponed the Virangana Rani Avantibai Lodhi Shobha Yatra in Etah that was scheduled for August 16. Rajasthan Chief MinisterBhajanlalSharmahas 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 inDausaisextremely tragic.The district administration has beendirected toensureprompt and proper treatment for the injured.May God grant a place atHis 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. AMERICAN BIAS T HAT the United States is more than eager to appease Pakistan at any cost becomes clear from its latest decision to designate the Balochistan LiberationArmy and one of its wings Majeed Brigade as terror groups. This action of the Trump Administration shows that the US does not recognise the freedom struggle of the Baloch people right since 1947-48 when Pakistan illegally occupied Balochistan, then an independent country, and included it in its map as a province. The Baloch people never accepted this occupation and celebrate Independence Day of Balochistan every year. They have also tried to establish demidiplomatic relations with several countries urging them to recognise their freedom movement as well as the right to exist as a independent nation. In the past few decades, the struggle of the Baloch people is getting increasing international support and recognition. The American action, however, militates against all this -- which is surprising and shocking. When a country like the US that often brandishes itself as a champion of freedom and democracy and human rights indulges in such a one-sided political decision, then the question-mark on its integrity starts getting bigger and louder. For, in the past seven-plus decades, the Baloch people have faced terrible repression from Pakistan -- in addition to their deprivation of basic rights that include also the right to be privy to the natural resources that Nature has bestowed on Balochistan. The Pakistani Government has never given the Baloch people any advantage of the gifts of Nature and has diverted all that wealth to other parts of Pakistan. As a result, Balochistan has all along reeled in utter poverty and absence of facility of any kind. The Pakistani Government did place some of its Baloch stooges in positions of power, but the common Baloch people understand those actions only as a political ploy that actually means nothing. In the past some years, the freedom movement of the Baloch people has assumed greater intensity. The Balochistan Liberation Army and the Majeed Brigade are two manifestations of that freedom struggle -- which now the US has designated as terror groups (obviously to please its Pakistani friends). This is very unfortunate -- and unbecoming of the US, a self-professed champion of freedom. dared the Pakistani establishment in every which the way. Some of its actions also included a hijack of an entire train, the first-of-its-kind event in world history. The region of Balochistan has also seen the BLA and its associate groups taking a virtual control of most parts of the province where the Pakistani Army does not even dare to enter. There are reasons to believe that the Pakistani establishment now feels fully frustrated that it has no clue how to handle the challenge of the freedom struggle of the Baloch people -- whose voice has reached the United Nations as well. It must be admitted that the Baloch people have built a very strong case for the freedom of their country from the illegal Pakistani clutches. The world also knows the expansionist habit of Pakistan -- which is indicated also in its illegal occupation of parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The international community also knows that freedom movements are going on in Gilgit-Baltistan areas which, too, Pakistan had occupied illegally after 1947. What is shocking that the US has known all such shenanigans of Pakistan yet has chosen to overlook all those sinful acts of commission. The designation of the BLA and its wing Majeed Brigade by the US as terror groups is nothing but an act of brazen disregard to struggle for freedom of oppressed people whose suffering have extended over decades. This is unbecoming of the United States of America. By indulging in such acts, the US is only demeaning itself. Army goes high-tech along LoC By Somil Abrol SUNDERBANI Amid changing security scenario driven by rapid advancement in AI-powered technology the Army introduced state-of-the-art equipment like smart fence system, robotic mules, all-terrain vehicles to fortify security KEEPING pace with the changing security scenario driven by rapid advancement in AI-powered technology, the Army has gone high-tech with the introductionofstate-of-the-artequipment like smart fence system, robotic mules and all-terrain vehicles to fortify security along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmirs Rajouri district, officials said. The newly-introduced equipment, including quadcopters, advanced surveillance tools, bullet-proof vehicles, modern weapons and night-vision sights,wereallsuccessfully tested during Operation Sindoor between May 7 and May 10, whenIndianArmedForcescarried out missile strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam attack andsuccessfullycountered the enemy retaliation. Providing a rare opportunity to visiting mediapersons to witness the Indian Armys unwavering courage and dedication along the LoC in the remote regions of Sunderbani ahead of Independence Day, theArmyhas activateda threelayered security system and intensified patrolling and vigil all along the border to ensure peaceful celebrations of the event. The induction of advanced military vehicles like the Armadoandall-terrainvehicles have given the Armys quickreaction teams an advantage to act swiftly in the most challengingandrugged terrainwith dense foliage to neutralise any threat, especially from infiltrating terrorists, the officials said. During a drill, the soldiers demonstrated how they cordon off an area and engage terrorists, highlighting the vehicles speed, protection and adaptability. The Mahindra Armoured LightSpecialistVehicle (ALSV) or Armadois a lightweight and air-transportable armoured vehicle designed for the Army and special forces. The indigenously-developed Robotic Mule is emerging as a game-changer on the battlefield, the officials said, adding that the MULE (Multi-Utility Legged Equipment), designed byAeroArc under theMakein India initiative, is a quadrupedal robot capable of navigatingsnow,deserts,water and other challenging terrains to complete the assigned job. During Operation Sindoor, these robotic mules played a crucialrolein surveillance and logistics, an Army official said. Equipped with advanced sensors, he said theMULE can transport supplies, detect explosives andconductreconnaissance. Its modular design allows forcustomisationacross various battlefield roles and it can even operate in swarms, creating a mini robot army that enhancesoperational efficiency while reducing risks to soldiers. Har Ghar Tiranga: Shah hoists tricolour at hom Har Ghar Tiranga: Shah hoists tricolour at home NEW DELHI : UNION Home Minister Amit Shah onWednesday hoisted the nationalflagathisresidencehere as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign and said the initiative has become a peoples movement that strengthens the spirit of patriotism. Har Ghar Tiranga is a campaign thatstartedunder theaegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to encourage people to bring the tricolour home and hoist it to mark Indias Independence. Today, under the #HarGharTiranga campaign, I hoisted the tricolour at my residence, Shah said in a post on X in Hindi. Hehoisted the flagwithhiswife Sonal. The Home Minister said theHarGharTirangacampaign, initiated under theleadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has become a peoples movement that binds the nation with the thread ofunity and strengthens the spirit of patriotism. Thiscampaigndemonstrates that the 140 crore citizens of the countryaredetermined todevelop and make the best of the free India that countless freedom fighters realised through their sacrifice, penance and dedication, he said. CM Yogi launches Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, calls it symbol of pride LUCKNOW, UTTAR Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi AdityanathonWednesday launched theHarGharTiranga campaigninLucknowaheadof the 79th Independence Day, calling it a symbol of national pride and gratitude towards freedom fighters, revolutionaries and soldiers. Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and BrajeshPathak, alongwithseveral State dignitaries, attended the event at theKalidasMarghere, which was launched two days before Independence Day. Addressing the gathering,Adityanath said thecampaignwas being organised in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modis call to take the messageofpatriotism to every household. Our country is completing 78 years of Independence and has entered the Amrit Kaal. Every Indian should have a sense of respect and devotion towards the Constitution, national symbols, great revolutionaries, and eminent personalities, he said. Over thepast 10years,under the Prime Ministers call, this spirit of nationalism has been reaching every home, and through the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, we are seeing it flourish, the CM added. Culture Ministry sends over 30,000 national flags to Andaman PORT BLAIR, Aug 13 (PTI) UNION Ministry of Culture has sent more than 30,000 Tricolours to the Andaman and Nicobar administration forTiranga Mahotsav in the archipelago, officials said on Wednesday. Speaking to PTI, Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar said, The Har Ghar Tiranga festival aims to ensure that every household across the islands proudly hoists the national flag and becomes part of the collectivecelebrationofpatriotism. I want to request all the islanders and tourists to become a part of this proud moment. The flags, being sent through the postal department, will be distributed among households to ensure greater participation by islanders. Police find USD 30K worth of Labubu dolls that were stolen CHINO : A POLICE department in Southern California recovered about USD 30,000worth of Labubu dolls that were stolen from awarehouse, 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 inasocialmediapost.Twosuspects, 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 states Inland Empire. The announcement comes as authorities in Los Angeles County investigate a separate incident in which thieves stole about USD 7,000 worth of the toothylittlemonsters 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. The Labubu, created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, was first introduced in 2015 and is sold by Chinas Pop Mart. SHOCKER: 3 ABC centres operating without ABWI nod Staff Reporter : NMC fails to provide record relating to expenses incurred in animal birth control programme from 2019 to 2025 THREE animal birth control (ABC) centres operating in the city with the support of Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) lack mandatory nods from the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI).The Animal BirthControl Rules,2023,state that all ABC centresmusthave AWBI permission to operate. And interestingly, Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has footed the bill of Rs 7,49,158 (11 months) from public funds for maintenance expenses incurred by three centres for carrying out sterilisation of stray dogs in the city. The said information has come out in an RTI put up by animal welfare activists. NMC said it provides these ABC centres with space, electricity, water, and other minor facilities. Total maintenance expenses from 2019 to 2025: the only record provided was that of electricitybills forjust11months, and it amounted to Rs 7,49,158, again adjusted frompublicmoney. NMC is running the ABC programme, especially for sterilisation of stray dogs utilising the scarce public funds. Smita Mire, an animal welfare activist, said it's quite shocking to learn that NMC officials overlooked a crucial yet mandatory aspect of AWBI approval for running of 3 ABC centres. Replying to RTI application, the civic body said over theperiod from2019 to2025, about 42656 surgeries for sterilisation were carried out and as to causality, only six. NMC said it did not receive any funding from either the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) nor the State Welfare Board, and ABC centres in the city are at Bhandewadi, managed by Vets for Animals, Satara; at Maharajbag, managed by the Swatantra Animal Welfare Society, Hyderabad; and at Gorewada, run by the Krishna Society for Animals, Pune. Shequestioned thepracticeof non-maintenance of records when publicmoneyis being dispersed,addingitputsaquestion mark on the utilisation of public funds. The RTI reply given by NMC reveals disturbing lapses, lack of transparency, and possible negligence in the city's ABC programme, Mire claimed further. Countering NMC's claim of justsixcasualtiesin theABCprogramme, Mire said their record and evidencewith them arecontrary to official information. These findings thus raise serious questions about the authenticity of reported figures and the overall welfare of animals under municipal care. Information for the financial years 2019 to 2026 was sought to gain a clear picture of the ABC operations. Animal lovers have documented evidence that suggests mortality is much higher than officially reported:At Bhandewadi, one post-mortem was conducted on a highly decomposed body, making the cause of death indeterminable, indicatingpoorcare andrecordkeeping. Thereafter at Gorewada, against 1 death, there is eyewitnessaccounts thatpoint tomany more fatalities. Then at Maharajbag, where the claim is of zero deaths, an implausible claim is contradicted by irrefutable evidence that shows atleast fourdeaths.Mireclaimed tobeinpossessionofcallrecordings,photographs, and videos to contradict the zero casualty claim. One of the cases involved a dog being forcibly and brutally captured, leading to its death after sterilisation. None of these deaths were officially recorded, indicating deliberate data manipulation. Surgical Failures and Negligence: At both Gorewada and Bhandewadi, many sterilisations have failed, with stitchesopening,intestinesprotruding, and dogs dying as a result. She highlighted a tragic incident when four dogs from Symbiosis College died within a weekofreleasedue tocaninedistemper and post-surgery weakness. Shockingly, theNMC employees charged for their burial despite the deaths beinga direct result of immediate post-ABC releasewithoutrecoverytime.No one is held accountable for the said act. In February, AWBI's surprise inspectionrevealedmultipleviolations, as ABC rules were not being followed at three centres, and there was also improper treatment of dogs. Also, the kennelswereovercrowded,no autoclave for sterilisation was practised, and hygiene was totally absent. Match Group has agreed to pay $14 million to the FTC. The payment will settle charges of deceptive advertising practices. Match will change some business practices as part of the settlement. The company recently laid off 13% of its staff. Match Group, the parent company of Match.com, Tinder, Hinge, OkCupid, and PlentyOfFish, has agreed to pay $14 million to settle a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission about deceptive advertising practices. The FTC sued the dating-site company in 2019, accusing it of using misleading ads to drive subscriptions, which were then difficult for people to cancel. Customers who tried to dispute billing charges also complained about being locked out of their accounts. Match, the FTC alleged, had told customers they could get a free six-month subscription if they didnt meet someone special, but failed to disclose the customers would need to meet numerous requirements before that guarantee would be honored. As part of the agreement, Match has agreed to clearly disclose those terms moving forward. In addition, the company will make it easier to cancel subscriptions and refrain from retaliating against customers who file disputes. Match Group admits no liability as part of this resolution and was fully prepared to take the case to trial, but opted to resolve the case to put the matter behind it, the company said in a statement. The FTCs outdated claims are entirely moot, as the alleged practices at issue ended years ago or are based on mischaracterizations that do not reflect our business today. The settlement is just the latest in a string of bad news for Match. In May, it announced plans to lay off 13% of its workforce, cutting approximately 325 jobs. In addition, an investigation earlier this year claimed that it had failed to act on reports of sexual assault. Match Group has seen its stock price tumble nearly 70% over the past five years (though it is 13% higher year to date in 2025). Bank of America analysts said in a Feb. 5 note that Spencer Rascoffs appointment as CEO could be a positive for the company, but noted the online dating industry faces continued headwinds to user growth. Rascoff, in March, posted an open letter on LinkedIn, where he said the companys dating apps were falling short and dont feel like places to build real connections. He has called on Match employees to offer feedback on how to best improve the services. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com Key Points Dutch Bros is developing products and creating a consumer experience that's generating loyalty. It reported outstanding second-quarter earnings. It sees the opportunity to increase its store count sevenfold. 10 stocks we like better than Dutch Bros The market has been getting plenty of good news lately, and stocks are starting to climb again. President Donald Trump met with Apple CEO Tim Cook last week, with Apple announcing a $600 billion investment in U.S. operations, while Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices agreed to give 15% of revenue from Chinese goods to the U.S. government in exchange for the ability to sell chips to China. But coffee chain Dutch Bros' (NYSE: BROS) stock soared last week on its own news, and after middling performance for most of the year, it's up more than 26%, beating the S&P 500's 9% rise. Here's why the market is loving Dutch Bros. Image source: Dutch Bros. Back to the basics Investors love to get into a detailed earnings report or 10-K filing to see how a company's finances are doing. But the beginning of any great company is a great product. Dutch Bros sells coffee through its chain of just over 1,000 stores today, but its concept was built on innovative products, and that vibrant approach to coffee still drives the business. Don't get me wrong; the economics here are excellent, which furthers the investment thesis. But it starts with great coffee that customers love, and the high sales follow. CEO Christine Barone detailed the company's three-part plan to generate higher transaction growth. It involves menu innovation, paid advertising to enhance brand awareness as it rolls out in new regions, and leaning into the loyalty program. Dutch Bros has always differentiated itself by launching its own branded beverages, and that's one way it stands out. Barone called it a mix of art and science, understanding what's trending in the coffee world and translating it into products that its customers want to drink. Some of the innovation is in the customized beverages, such as protein coffee and flavors like lavender, and some of that is in the menu itself. One of the initiatives it's working on is a pilot of a morning food menu, which is driving higher engagement and sales in the morning coffee run. Part of the product is the experience, and making its stores a positive experience involves rigorous systems and technology to ensure speed and effective customer service. The company takes things slow in that respect to ensure it has its systems in check before opening new stores or making any changes. Barone said that the food menu will roll out slowly through 2026 even though it's already demonstrating positive metrics, to ensure that stores are ready to handle it. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE:AAP Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, August 14th, RTT News reports. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 10th will be given a dividend of 0.25 per share on Friday, October 24th. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. Advance Auto Parts has a payout ratio of 32.3% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities analysts expect Advance Auto Parts to earn $1.57 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.00 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 63.7%. Get Advance Auto Parts alerts: Advance Auto Parts Trading Up 4.7% Shares of AAP opened at $61.87 on Thursday. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $54.97 and its 200-day simple moving average is $44.58. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.71 billion, a PE ratio of -10.54 and a beta of 1.05. Advance Auto Parts has a 12-month low of $28.89 and a 12-month high of $70.00. The company has a quick ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 1.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68. Insider Activity at Advance Auto Parts Advance Auto Parts ( NYSE:AAP Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, August 14th. The company reported $0.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.59 by $0.10. Advance Auto Parts had a negative net margin of 3.74% and a negative return on equity of 1.76%. As a group, research analysts predict that Advance Auto Parts will post -0.46 earnings per share for the current year. In related news, SVP Jason Hand sold 948 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, June 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $48.52, for a total value of $45,996.96. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 9,876 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $479,183.52. This represents a 8.76% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. 0.35% of the stock is currently owned by insiders. Institutional Trading of Advance Auto Parts Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. California Public Employees Retirement System increased its position in shares of Advance Auto Parts by 6.8% in the second quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 74,025 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,441,000 after acquiring an additional 4,732 shares during the last quarter. Cerity Partners LLC bought a new position in Advance Auto Parts in the second quarter valued at approximately $338,000. Federated Hermes Inc. increased its position in shares of Advance Auto Parts by 75.7% during the 2nd quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 2,387,325 shares of the companys stock worth $110,987,000 after purchasing an additional 1,028,561 shares during the last quarter. Gabelli Funds LLC raised its stake in shares of Advance Auto Parts by 193.0% during the 2nd quarter. Gabelli Funds LLC now owns 66,218 shares of the companys stock worth $3,078,000 after purchasing an additional 43,618 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Gamco Investors INC. ET AL raised its stake in shares of Advance Auto Parts by 24.8% during the 2nd quarter. Gamco Investors INC. ET AL now owns 564,225 shares of the companys stock worth $26,231,000 after purchasing an additional 112,300 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 88.75% of the companys stock. Advance Auto Parts Company Profile (Get Free Report) Advance Auto Parts, Inc provides automotive replacement parts, accessories, batteries, and maintenance items for domestic and imported cars, vans, sport utility vehicles, and light and heavy duty trucks. The company offers battery accessories; belts and hoses; brakes and brake pads; chassis and climate control parts; clutches and drive shafts; engines and engine parts; exhaust systems and parts; hub assemblies; ignition components and wires; radiators and cooling parts; starters and alternators; and steering and alignment parts. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Advance Auto Parts Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Advance Auto Parts and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. With a low price-to-earnings multiple and a significant presence in Seth Klarmans investment portfolio, Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS) earns a spot on our list of the 12 Cheap Value Stocks to Buy Now According to Seth Klarman. Mizuho Decreases PT on Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (FIS) to $83; Maintains Outperform Rating A customer making a purchase at a modern retail store terminal, showing the ubiquity of the companys payment solutions. On August 7, 2025, Mizuho decreased its price target on Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS) from $85 to $83, maintaining an Outperform rating. The price target revision reflects the analysts updated financial model, projecting slightly lower medium-term EPS forecasts. However, Mizuho dismissed the broader speculation about a stealth downgrade to the companys organic revenue growth for the fiscal year. The analyst raised its guidance for the companys Banking segment from 3.7%-4.4% to 4.0%-4.5%, thanks to 20 basis points of M&A contributions. Meanwhile, the Capital Markets segment guidance is maintained at 6.5%-7.0%. Mizuho remains confident in Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS)s long-term growth, thanks to strong momentum in its Banking division. Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS) serves financial institutions globally, providing banking and payment technology solutions. It is included in our list of cheap value stocks to buy. While we acknowledge the potential of FIS 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: 10 Best AI Stocks to Buy Under $3 and Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its holdings in Aon plc (NYSE:AON Free Report) by 7.3% during the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 5,865 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 398 shares during the period. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in AON were worth $2,341,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. National Pension Service lifted its holdings in AON by 4.1% in the first quarter. National Pension Service now owns 349,161 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $139,347,000 after acquiring an additional 13,912 shares during the last quarter. Dagco Inc. acquired a new position in AON in the first quarter valued at approximately $60,000. Russell Investments Group Ltd. lifted its holdings in AON by 13.7% in the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 288,306 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $115,029,000 after acquiring an additional 34,821 shares during the last quarter. Prudential PLC lifted its stake in AON by 60.0% during the first quarter. Prudential PLC now owns 11,804 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,711,000 after purchasing an additional 4,428 shares in the last quarter. Finally, HighTower Advisors LLC lifted its stake in AON by 13.3% during the first quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 43,738 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $17,455,000 after purchasing an additional 5,142 shares in the last quarter. 86.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get AON alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of research firms have commented on AON. Cantor Fitzgerald began coverage on AON in a research note on Tuesday. They set an overweight rating and a $440.00 price target on the stock. Citigroup began coverage on AON in a research note on Wednesday. They set a neutral rating and a $402.00 price target on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price target on AON from $414.00 to $409.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group upgraded AON from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $408.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, May 13th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating and set a $438.00 price target (up from $436.00) on shares of AON in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, AON currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $410.69. AON Stock Performance NYSE:AON opened at $370.88 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $79.97 billion, a PE ratio of 31.06, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.15 and a beta of 0.83. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $357.55 and its 200 day moving average price is $370.68. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.93, a current ratio of 1.52 and a quick ratio of 1.52. Aon plc has a 12 month low of $323.73 and a 12 month high of $412.97. AON (NYSE:AON Get Free Report) last posted 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. The firm had revenue of $4.16 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.16 billion. AON had a return on equity of 50.91% and a net margin of 15.54%. AONs revenue for the quarter was up 10.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.93 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Aon plc will post 17.21 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. AON Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Friday, August 1st will be issued a $0.745 dividend. This represents a $2.98 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 1st. AONs dividend payout ratio is 24.96%. 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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AON? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Aon plc (NYSE:AON Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for AON Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for AON and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Boston Partners reduced its holdings in shares of Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ Free Report) (TSE:CNQ) by 16.9% during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 7,411,452 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after selling 1,505,414 shares during the period. Boston Partners holdings in Canadian Natural Resources were worth $227,748,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in CNQ. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 240.8% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 22,776,594 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $701,519,000 after buying an additional 16,094,168 shares in the last quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia increased its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 86.6% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia now owns 24,262,707 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $746,675,000 after buying an additional 11,259,267 shares in the last quarter. Canoe Financial LP increased its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 403.7% during the 1st quarter. Canoe Financial LP now owns 4,738,577 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $145,828,000 after buying an additional 3,797,846 shares in the last quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. increased its position in Canadian Natural Resources by 7.3% during the 4th quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 34,052,775 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $1,051,210,000 after buying an additional 2,312,437 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Canadian Natural Resources during the 1st quarter valued at about $68,342,000. 74.03% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Canadian Natural Resources alerts: Canadian Natural Resources Stock Up 0.1% Shares of CNQ stock opened at $29.93 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $31.73 and its 200-day simple moving average is $30.35. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a current ratio of 0.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $62.53 billion, a PE ratio of 10.61 and a beta of 1.05. Canadian Natural Resources Limited has a fifty-two week low of $24.65 and a fifty-two week high of $37.91. Canadian Natural Resources Increases Dividend Canadian Natural Resources ( NYSE:CNQ Get Free Report ) (TSE:CNQ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 7th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.51 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.44 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $6.39 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.97 billion. Canadian Natural Resources had a return on equity of 19.67% and a net margin of 19.00%. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.88 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Canadian Natural Resources Limited will post 2.45 earnings per share for the current year. The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 19th will be paid a $0.4269 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 19th. This is a positive change from Canadian Natural Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. This represents a $1.71 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.7%. Canadian Natural Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 60.64%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts recently issued reports on CNQ shares. Royal Bank Of Canada reduced their target price on Canadian Natural Resources from $64.00 to $62.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, August 8th. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research report on Friday, August 8th. Scotiabank reissued an outperform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Friday, July 11th. Finally, National Bankshares reissued a sector perform rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a report on Thursday, July 17th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $62.00. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on CNQ Canadian Natural Resources Company Profile (Free Report) Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers light and medium crude oil, primary heavy crude oil, Pelican Lake heavy crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), and synthetic crude oil (SCO). Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CNQ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Canadian Natural Resources Limited (NYSE:CNQ Free Report) (TSE:CNQ). Receive News & Ratings for Canadian Natural Resources Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Canadian Natural Resources and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR Free Report) in the first quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund purchased 519 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $37,000. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EQR. Versant Capital Management Inc boosted its stake in shares of Equity Residential by 51.6% in the 1st quarter. Versant Capital Management Inc now owns 461 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $33,000 after purchasing an additional 157 shares in the last quarter. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT acquired a new stake in shares of Equity Residential in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $48,000. Kapitalo Investimentos Ltda acquired a new stake in shares of Equity Residential in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $51,000. MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB boosted its stake in shares of Equity Residential by 27.6% in the 1st quarter. MassMutual Private Wealth & Trust FSB now owns 740 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $53,000 after purchasing an additional 160 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Continuum Advisory LLC boosted its stake in shares of Equity Residential by 38.8% in the 4th quarter. Continuum Advisory LLC now owns 765 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $55,000 after purchasing an additional 214 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.68% of the companys stock. Get Equity Residential alerts: Equity Residential Trading Up 2.1% Shares of EQR stock opened at $64.00 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $24.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.15, a PEG ratio of 3.18 and a beta of 0.92. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $66.75 and a 200-day moving average of $68.77. The company has a current ratio of 0.17, a quick ratio of 0.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.75. Equity Residential has a 1-year low of $59.41 and a 1-year high of $78.83. Equity Residential Announces Dividend Equity Residential ( NYSE:EQR Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, August 4th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.99 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.99. The company had revenue of $768.83 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $770.60 million. Equity Residential had a return on equity of 9.05% and a net margin of 33.22%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 4.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.97 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Equity Residential will post 3.98 earnings per share for the current year. The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 11th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, June 24th were paid a $0.6925 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, June 24th. This represents a $2.77 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.3%. Equity Residentials payout ratio is 104.53%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Equity Residential from $84.00 to $76.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on shares of Equity Residential from $76.50 to $75.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Equity Residential from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. Barclays reduced their price target on Equity Residential from $83.00 to $81.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday. Finally, Evercore ISI reduced their price target on Equity Residential from $72.00 to $71.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have given a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $77.84. View Our Latest Report on EQR About Equity Residential (Free Report) Equity Residential is committed to creating communities where people thrive. The Company, a member of the S&P 500, is focused on the acquisition, development and management of residential properties located in and around dynamic cities that attract affluent long-term renters. Equity Residential owns or has investments in 305 properties consisting of 80,683 apartment units, with an established presence in Boston, New York, Washington, DC, Seattle, San Francisco and Southern California, and an expanding presence in Denver, Atlanta, Dallas/Ft. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding EQR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Equity Residential (NYSE:EQR Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Equity Residential Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Equity Residential and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Primerica, Inc. (NYSE:PRI Get Free Report) CEO Glenn J. Williams sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $262.20, for a total value of $655,500.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 36,392 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,541,982.40. The trade was a 6.43% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Primerica Stock Down 0.2% NYSE:PRI opened at $263.73 on Thursday. Primerica, Inc. has a 52-week low of $230.98 and a 52-week high of $307.91. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $265.22 and its 200 day moving average price is $271.54. The company has a market capitalization of $8.54 billion, a PE ratio of 13.03 and a beta of 0.99. Get Primerica alerts: Primerica (NYSE:PRI Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 6th. The financial services provider reported $5.46 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $5.18 by $0.28. Primerica had a return on equity of 32.42% and a net margin of 21.48%. The company had revenue of $796.02 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $790.99 million. During the same period last year, the firm earned $4.71 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up .3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Primerica, Inc. will post 20.6 EPS for the current fiscal year. Primerica Announces Dividend Analysts Set New Price Targets The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 22nd will be given a dividend of $1.04 per share. This represents a $4.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 22nd. Primericas dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 20.55%. PRI has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price objective on Primerica from $293.00 to $283.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Monday. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on Primerica from $274.00 to $296.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, May 19th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their price target on Primerica from $315.00 to $320.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research note on Monday. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $313.57. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Primerica Institutional Trading of Primerica A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Mariner LLC lifted its position in Primerica by 1.4% during the 4th quarter. Mariner LLC now owns 2,611 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $709,000 after acquiring an additional 36 shares during the period. HB Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in Primerica by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. HB Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,088 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $594,000 after acquiring an additional 38 shares during the period. Olympiad Research LP lifted its position in Primerica by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. Olympiad Research LP now owns 1,061 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $290,000 after acquiring an additional 40 shares during the period. Applied Finance Capital Management LLC lifted its position in Primerica by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Applied Finance Capital Management LLC now owns 839 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $239,000 after acquiring an additional 42 shares during the period. Finally, Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Primerica by 1.4% in the 1st quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,095 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $881,000 after buying an additional 44 shares during the period. 90.88% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. About Primerica (Get Free Report) Primerica, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services to middle-income households in the United States and Canada. The company operates in four segments: Term Life Insurance; Investment and Savings Products; Senior Health; and Corporate and Other Distributed Products. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Primerica Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Primerica and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (NYSE:PBR Get Free Report) and GeoPetro Resources (OTCMKTS:GEOR Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, dividends, earnings, valuation, institutional ownership, profitability and analyst recommendations. Earnings & Valuation This table compares Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras and GeoPetro Resourcess revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Get Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras $86.29 billion 0.91 $7.53 billion $2.14 5.71 GeoPetro Resources N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Analyst Ratings Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras has higher revenue and earnings than GeoPetro Resources. This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras and GeoPetro Resources, as reported by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras 0 1 6 1 3.00 GeoPetro Resources 0 0 0 0 0.00 Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras presently has a consensus price target of $17.40, indicating a potential upside of 42.51%. Given Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts plainly believe Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras is more favorable than GeoPetro Resources. Profitability This table compares Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras and GeoPetro Resources net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras 15.99% 34.11% 8.63% GeoPetro Resources N/A N/A N/A Summary Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras beats GeoPetro Resources on 8 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks. About Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras (Get Free Report) Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. Petrobras explores, produces, and sells oil and gas in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Exploration and Production; Refining, Transportation and Marketing; and Gas and Power. The Exploration and Production segment explores, develops, and produces crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily for supplies to the domestic refineries. The Refining, Transportation and Marketing segment engages in the refining, logistics, transport, acquisition, and exports of crude oil; and production of fertilizers, as well as holding interests in petrochemical companies. The Gas and Power segment is involved in the logistic and trading of natural gas and electricity; transportation and trading of LNG; generation of electricity through thermoelectric power plants; renewable energy businesses; low carbon services; and natural gas processing business, as well as production of biodiesel and its co-products. The company also engages in prospecting, drilling, refining, processing, trading, and transporting crude oil from producing onshore and offshore oil fields, and shale or other rocks, as well as oil products, natural gas, and other liquid hydrocarbons. In addition, it engages in research, development, production, transport, distribution, and trading of energy. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. Petrobras was incorporated in 1953 and is headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. About GeoPetro Resources (Get Free Report) GeoPetro Resources Co. is an independent oil and natural gas company, which engages in exploration, development, drilling and production of oil and gas properties. It holds interest in Madisonville, Lokern and Cook Inlet projects. The company was founded by Stuart J. Doshi in August 1994 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA. Receive News & Ratings for Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Petroleo Brasileiro S.A.- Petrobras and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Holderness Investments Co. decreased its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report) by 0.6% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 42,492 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 278 shares during the period. Holderness Investments Co.s holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $2,592,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). A number of other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of BMY. Brighton Jones LLC boosted its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 33.4% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 19,728 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,116,000 after buying an additional 4,935 shares during the period. Bank Pictet & Cie Europe AG bought a new position in Bristol Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter worth $13,094,000. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 3.2% in the 4th quarter. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC now owns 180,241 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $10,194,000 after buying an additional 5,615 shares during the period. Finward Bancorp bought a new position in Bristol Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter worth $219,000. Finally, Evergreen Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 4.2% in the 4th quarter. Evergreen Capital Management LLC now owns 41,113 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,325,000 after buying an additional 1,654 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock. Get Bristol Myers Squibb alerts: Wall Street Analyst Weigh In BMY has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Daiwa Capital Markets downgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 target price for the company. in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. William Blair reaffirmed a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Friday, April 25th. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their target price on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from $70.00 to $68.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 23rd. Morgan Stanley reiterated a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, June 6th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fifteen have issued a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $56.38. Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Up 2.7% Shares of NYSE BMY opened at $47.82 on Thursday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $47.23 and its 200-day moving average price is $51.66. The company has a current ratio of 1.21, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54. The stock has a market capitalization of $97.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.28, a P/E/G ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.36. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 12-month low of $42.96 and a 12-month high of $63.33. Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.07 by $0.39. The firm had revenue of $12.27 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.32 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. The businesss revenue was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.07 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current fiscal year. Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 1st. Investors of record on Thursday, July 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.2%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is presently 100.00%. About Bristol Myers Squibb (Free Report) Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Bristol Myers Squibb and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc (LON:RR Get Free Report) insider Wendy Mars purchased 188 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 7th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 969 ($13.16) per share, with a total value of 1,821.72 ($2,473.82). Wendy Mars also recently made the following trade(s): Get Rolls-Royce Holdings plc alerts: On Monday, June 9th, Wendy Mars acquired 209 shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc stock. The stock was bought at an average price of GBX 875 ($11.88) per share, for a total transaction of 1,828.75 ($2,483.37). Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Stock Performance Shares of RR opened at GBX 1,090.50 ($14.81) on Thursday. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc has a fifty-two week low of GBX 196.45 ($2.67) and a fifty-two week high of GBX 537.20 ($7.29). The firm has a market cap of 93.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 39.75, a PEG ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 1.82. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of GBX 967.36 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 812.60. Analysts Set New Price Targets Rolls-Royce Holdings plc ( LON:RR Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 31st. The company reported GBX 15.74 ($0.21) earnings per share for the quarter. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc had a net margin of 13.08% and a negative return on equity of 78.08%. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Rolls-Royce Holdings plc will post 8.5952 earnings per share for the current year. A number of equities analysts have commented on the stock. Citigroup boosted their price target on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 641 ($8.70) to GBX 1,101 ($14.95) and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday. Shore Capital reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Rolls-Royce Holdings plc in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their target price on Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 1,000 ($13.58) to GBX 1,220 ($16.57) and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on Rolls-Royce Holdings plc from GBX 1,040 ($14.12) to GBX 1,245 ($16.91) and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 976.20 ($13.26). View Our Latest Stock Analysis on RR Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Company Profile (Get Free Report) Rolls-Royce Holdings plc develops and delivers complex power and propulsion solutions for air, sea, and land in the United Kingdom and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Civil Aerospace, Defence, Power Systems, and New Markets. The Civil Aerospace segment develops, manufactures, markets, and sells aero engines for large commercial aircraft, regional jet, and business aviation markets, as well as provides aftermarket services. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rolls-Royce Holdings plc and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Inspire Trust Co. N.A. boosted its holdings in Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report) by 7.0% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 76,900 shares of the pipeline companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,000 shares during the period. Williams Companies comprises 1.1% of Inspire Trust Co. N.A.s holdings, making the stock its 24th largest position. Inspire Trust Co. N.A.s holdings in Williams Companies were worth $4,596,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd boosted its position in Williams Companies by 1.2% in the first quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 577,123 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $34,489,000 after purchasing an additional 6,816 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC boosted its position in Williams Companies by 27.5% in the first quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 402,967 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $24,081,000 after purchasing an additional 87,031 shares during the last quarter. Kessler Investment Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of Williams Companies in the first quarter valued at $327,000. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Williams Companies by 14.0% in the first quarter. Hennion & Walsh Asset Management Inc. now owns 85,839 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $5,130,000 after buying an additional 10,561 shares during the period. Finally, Good Steward Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Williams Companies in the first quarter valued at $977,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 86.44% of the companys stock. Get Williams Companies alerts: Insider Transactions at Williams Companies In other news, COO Larry C. Larsen sold 4,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $58.47, for a total value of $263,115.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 77,612 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,537,973.64. This represents a 5.48% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, SVP Terrance Lane Wilson sold 2,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.68, for a total value of $119,360.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president owned 313,645 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,718,333.60. The trade was a 0.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 8,500 shares of company stock worth $507,875 over the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 0.44% of the companys stock. Williams Companies Price Performance Shares of NYSE WMB opened at $57.84 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $70.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.07, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.66. The company has a quick ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 0.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $59.14 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $58.24. Williams Companies, Inc. has a twelve month low of $42.82 and a twelve month high of $63.45. Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Monday, August 4th. The pipeline company reported $0.46 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by ($0.03). The business had revenue of $2.78 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.90 billion. Williams Companies had a return on equity of 16.23% and a net margin of 21.63%. Williams Companiess revenue was up 19.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.43 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Williams Companies, Inc. will post 2.08 EPS for the current fiscal year. Williams Companies Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 12th will be paid a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.5%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, September 12th. Williams Companiess dividend payout ratio is currently 100.50%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several analysts have issued reports on WMB shares. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on Williams Companies from $67.00 to $70.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, August 8th. TD Cowen started coverage on Williams Companies in a research note on Monday, July 7th. They issued a buy rating and a $67.00 target price on the stock. Scotiabank boosted their target price on Williams Companies from $59.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. Wolfe Research upgraded Williams Companies from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research note on Friday, June 13th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating and issued a $63.00 target price on shares of Williams Companies in a research note on Tuesday, July 15th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Williams Companies presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $62.00. Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Williams Companies About Williams Companies (Free Report) The Williams Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy infrastructure company primarily in the United States. It operates through Transmission & Gulf of Mexico, Northeast G&P, West, and Gas & NGL Marketing Services segments. The Transmission & Gulf of Mexico segment comprises natural gas pipelines; Transco, Northwest pipeline, MountainWest, and related natural gas storage facilities; and natural gas gathering and processing, and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WMB? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Williams Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Williams Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Leap Technology (OTCMKTS:LPTC Get Free Report) and Humana (NYSE:HUM Get Free Report) are both medical companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, valuation, institutional ownership, dividends, risk and earnings. Earnings and Valuation This table compares Leap Technology and Humanas revenue, earnings per share and valuation. Get Leap Technology alerts: Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Leap Technology N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Humana $117.76 billion 0.29 $1.21 billion $13.03 21.65 Analyst Recommendations Humana has higher revenue and earnings than Leap Technology. This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Leap Technology and Humana, as provided by MarketBeat.com. Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Leap Technology 0 0 0 0 0.00 Humana 0 16 7 0 2.30 Humana has a consensus price target of $281.6190, suggesting a potential downside of 0.19%. Given Leap Technologys higher probable upside, research analysts plainly believe Leap Technology is more favorable than Humana. Profitability This table compares Leap Technology and Humanas net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Leap Technology N/A N/A N/A Humana 1.28% 13.67% 4.85% Insider and Institutional Ownership 92.4% of Humana shares are owned by institutional investors. 1.1% of Leap Technology shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 0.4% of Humana shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Summary Humana beats Leap Technology on 7 of the 9 factors compared between the two stocks. About Leap Technology (Get Free Report) Le@P Technology, Inc. does not have significant operations. The company plans to pursue acquisition, joint venture, and investment opportunities primarily in the areas of health care technology, and products and services, as well as life sciences. Previously, it was involved in leasing a real property. Le@P Technology, Inc. was founded in 1997 and is based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. About Humana (Get Free Report) Humana Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides medical and specialty insurance products in the United States. It operates through two segments, Insurance and CenterWell. The company offers medical and supplemental benefit plans to individuals. It has a contract with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to administer the Limited Income Newly Eligible Transition prescription drug plan program; and contracts with various states to provide Medicaid, dual eligible, and long-term support services benefits. In addition, the company provides commercial fully-insured medical and specialty health insurance benefits comprising dental, vision, life insurance, and other supplemental health benefits, as well as administrative services only products to individuals and employer groups; military services, such as TRICARE T2017 East Region contract; and engages in the operations of pharmacy benefit manager business. Further, it operates pharmacies and senior focused primary care centers; and offers home solutions services, such as home health, hospice, and other services to its health plan members, as well as to third parties. The company sells its products through employers and employees, independent brokers and agents, sales representatives, and digital insurance agencies. The company was formerly known as Extendicare Inc. and changed its name to Humana Inc. in April 1974. Humana Inc. was founded in 1961 and is headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. Receive News & Ratings for Leap Technology Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Leap Technology and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. LGT Group Foundation trimmed its holdings in Rio Tinto PLC (NYSE:RIO Free Report) by 15.3% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,928 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 887 shares during the period. LGT Group Foundations holdings in Rio Tinto were worth $296,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Rio Tinto by 4.1% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 8,368,620 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $502,787,000 after purchasing an additional 326,661 shares in the last quarter. Auto Owners Insurance Co raised its position in shares of Rio Tinto by 77,150.0% in the 1st quarter. Auto Owners Insurance Co now owns 7,416,000 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $445,553,000 after purchasing an additional 7,406,400 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its position in shares of Rio Tinto by 18.9% in the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 1,603,037 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $94,275,000 after purchasing an additional 255,151 shares in the last quarter. Deutsche Bank AG raised its position in shares of Rio Tinto by 143,872.8% in the 4th quarter. Deutsche Bank AG now owns 1,264,081 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $74,341,000 after purchasing an additional 1,263,203 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Todd Asset Management LLC raised its position in shares of Rio Tinto by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Todd Asset Management LLC now owns 1,071,017 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $64,347,000 after purchasing an additional 2,835 shares in the last quarter. 19.33% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Rio Tinto alerts: Rio Tinto Price Performance Shares of NYSE RIO opened at $63.55 on Thursday. Rio Tinto PLC has a 1-year low of $51.67 and a 1-year high of $72.08. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 1.53 and a quick ratio of 1.03. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $59.76 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $60.32. The firm has a market capitalization of $79.69 billion, a PE ratio of 9.85 and a beta of 0.64. Rio Tinto Cuts Dividend Wall Street Analyst Weigh In The business also recently announced a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 25th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be given a $1.48 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, August 15th. This represents a yield of 620.0%. Rio Tintos dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 69.15%. A number of equities analysts have issued reports on RIO shares. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Rio Tinto in a research report on Tuesday, June 3rd. Wall Street Zen lowered Rio Tinto from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating on shares of Rio Tinto in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered Rio Tinto from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Finally, Berenberg Bank reissued a hold rating on shares of Rio Tinto in a research report on Thursday, July 3rd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, four have issued a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $73.00. View Our Latest Analysis on Rio Tinto About Rio Tinto (Free Report) Rio Tinto Group engages in exploring, mining, and processing mineral resources worldwide. The company operates through Iron Ore, Aluminium, Copper, and Minerals Segments. The Iron Ore segment engages in the iron ore mining, and salt and gypsum production in Western Australia. The Aluminum segment is involved in bauxite mining; alumina refining; and aluminium smelting. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Rio Tinto Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Rio Tinto and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. With a significant presence in Warren Buffetts portfolio and strong hedge fund interest, Moodys Corporation (NYSE:MCO) secures a spot on our list of the 14 Best Warren Buffett Stocks to Invest in. Moodys Corporation (MCO) Reports Q2 2025 Results An iconic financial building in the background, with silhouettes of busy bankers walking past in the foreground. On July 23, 2025, Moodys Corporation (NYSE:MCO) announced its results for Q2 2025. The company recorded adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $3.56, exceeding estimates of $3.39 per share. Meanwhile, resilient Ratings performance, strong growth in Moodys Analytics (up 11%), and increasing demand for private credit ratings (up 75% from a low base) helped the company achieve a 4% YoY revenue increase, taking it to $1.9 billion. While softness remained in April for the issuance market, May and June brought strong momentum, resulting in the second consecutive quarter of over $1 billion in Ratings revenue. Furthermore, Moodys Corporation (NYSE:MCO)s Private Credit segment accounted for nearly 25% of first-time mandates, remaining a standout. Meanwhile, key strategic partnerships, including MSCI and Microsoft, enhanced the companys positioning within data, AI, and workflow solutions. Moreover, AI-enabled offerings and insurance solutions experienced strong growth, further expanding the companys recurring revenue to 96% of the total. Looking ahead, the company raised its MIS revenue growth guidance to the low-to-mid single digits for 2025. A 10% EPS growth is projected at the midpoint for the full year. With its credit ratings, risk analysis, and financial intelligence solutions, Moodys Corporation (NYSE:MCO) helps businesses, governments, and investors make informed decisions. It is included in our list of the best Warren Buffett stocks. While we acknowledge the potential of MCO 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: 10 Best AI Stocks to Buy Under $3 and Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management UK Ltd. boosted its position in GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE Free Report) by 200.0% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 9,000 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 6,000 shares during the quarter. GE Aerospace comprises about 1.0% of Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management UK Ltd.s portfolio, making the stock its 24th biggest holding. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management UK Ltd.s holdings in GE Aerospace were worth $1,801,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Sfmg LLC boosted its stake in GE Aerospace by 2.4% in the 1st quarter. Sfmg LLC now owns 2,088 shares of the companys stock valued at $418,000 after purchasing an additional 48 shares during the period. SGL Investment Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of GE Aerospace by 3.6% during the 1st quarter. SGL Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 1,413 shares of the companys stock valued at $303,000 after acquiring an additional 49 shares during the period. Hudock Inc. lifted its position in shares of GE Aerospace by 1.8% during the 1st quarter. Hudock Inc. now owns 2,905 shares of the companys stock valued at $582,000 after acquiring an additional 50 shares during the period. First Pacific Financial lifted its position in shares of GE Aerospace by 46.0% during the 1st quarter. First Pacific Financial now owns 165 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,000 after acquiring an additional 52 shares during the period. Finally, First Heartland Consultants Inc. lifted its position in shares of GE Aerospace by 1.2% during the 4th quarter. First Heartland Consultants Inc. now owns 4,729 shares of the companys stock valued at $789,000 after acquiring an additional 54 shares during the period. 74.77% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get GE Aerospace alerts: GE Aerospace Stock Performance Shares of GE Aerospace stock opened at $269.09 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $285.35 billion, a PE ratio of 37.53, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.01 and a beta of 1.44. GE Aerospace has a 52 week low of $159.36 and a 52 week high of $281.50. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $256.84 and a 200-day moving average price of $223.15. The company has a quick ratio of 0.73, a current ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. GE Aerospace Announces Dividend GE Aerospace ( NYSE:GE Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 17th. The company reported $1.66 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.43 by $0.23. The company had revenue of $10.15 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.49 billion. GE Aerospace had a return on equity of 31.32% and a net margin of 18.64%. GE Aerospaces revenue was up 21.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.20 earnings per share. Equities analysts anticipate that GE Aerospace will post 5.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 25th. Shareholders of record on Monday, July 7th were given a $0.36 dividend. This represents a $1.44 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.5%. GE Aerospaces dividend payout ratio is currently 20.08%. Wall Street Analyst Weigh In A number of analysts have recently weighed in on GE shares. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating and set a $296.00 target price (up from $227.00) on shares of GE Aerospace in a research report on Monday, July 14th. Northcoast Research downgraded GE Aerospace from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, May 19th. Wall Street Zen upgraded GE Aerospace from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, July 18th. UBS Group boosted their price target on GE Aerospace from $300.00 to $321.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 18th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on GE Aerospace from $230.00 to $295.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, July 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $232.92. Read Our Latest Report on GE About GE Aerospace (Free Report) GE Aerospace (also known as General Electric) is a company that specializes in providing aerospace products and services. It operates through two reportable segments: Commercial Engines and Services and Defense and Propulsion Technologies. It offers jet and turboprop engines, as well as integrated systems for commercial, military, business, and general aviation aircraft. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding GE? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for GE Aerospace Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for GE Aerospace and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. OneAscent Investment Solutions LLC bought a new stake in Williams Companies, Inc. (The) (NYSE:WMB Free Report) in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund bought 14,490 shares of the pipeline companys stock, valued at approximately $866,000. Williams Companies comprises 1.0% of OneAscent Investment Solutions LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 17th largest position. Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in WMB. HWG Holdings LP purchased a new stake in Williams Companies during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Menard Financial Group LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Williams Companies in the 4th quarter worth approximately $26,000. Iron Horse Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Williams Companies by 4,490.9% in the 1st quarter. Iron Horse Wealth Management LLC now owns 505 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 494 shares during the period. Hughes Financial Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Williams Companies in the 1st quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Abound Financial LLC acquired a new stake in Williams Companies during the 1st quarter valued at $32,000. 86.44% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Williams Companies alerts: Analyst Ratings Changes A number of equities research analysts have commented on WMB shares. Wolfe Research upgraded Williams Companies from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Friday, June 13th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on Williams Companies from $67.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $63.00 price target on shares of Williams Companies in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Scotiabank increased their price target on Williams Companies from $59.00 to $60.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 15th. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded Williams Companies from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $62.00. Insider Activity at Williams Companies In related news, COO Larry C. Larsen sold 4,500 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $58.47, for a total value of $263,115.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 77,612 shares in the company, valued at $4,537,973.64. This represents a 5.48% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Terrance Lane Wilson sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $59.68, for a total transaction of $119,360.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president owned 313,645 shares in the company, valued at approximately $18,718,333.60. This trade represents a 0.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 8,500 shares of company stock worth $507,875 over the last three months. 0.44% of the stock is owned by insiders. Williams Companies Stock Up 0.1% Williams Companies stock opened at $57.84 on Thursday. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $59.14 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $58.24. The firm has a market cap of $70.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.07, a P/E/G ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.66. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73, a current ratio of 0.54 and a quick ratio of 0.48. Williams Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $42.82 and a fifty-two week high of $63.45. Williams Companies (NYSE:WMB Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Monday, August 4th. The pipeline company reported $0.46 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by ($0.03). The business had revenue of $2.78 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.90 billion. Williams Companies had a net margin of 21.63% and a return on equity of 16.23%. The businesss revenue was up 19.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.43 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Williams Companies, Inc. will post 2.08 earnings per share for the current year. Williams Companies Dividend Announcement The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.50 per share. This represents a $2.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, September 12th. Williams Companiess dividend payout ratio is 100.50%. About Williams Companies (Free Report) The Williams Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy infrastructure company primarily in the United States. It operates through Transmission & Gulf of Mexico, Northeast G&P, West, and Gas & NGL Marketing Services segments. The Transmission & Gulf of Mexico segment comprises natural gas pipelines; Transco, Northwest pipeline, MountainWest, and related natural gas storage facilities; and natural gas gathering and processing, and crude oil production handling and transportation assets in the Gulf Coast region. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Williams Companies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Williams Companies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Profitability This table compares Southside Bancshares and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets. Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Southside Bancshares 19.07% 10.59% 1.02% Southside Bancshares Competitors 17.79% 10.48% 1.21% Valuation & Earnings This table compares Southside Bancshares and its competitors gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation. Get Southside Bancshares alerts: Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Southside Bancshares $260.02 million $88.49 million 10.88 Southside Bancshares Competitors $841.54 million $149.21 million 13.45 Southside Bancshares competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Southside Bancshares. Southside Bancshares is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry. Insider & Institutional Ownership Risk and Volatility 55.7% of Southside Bancshares shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 54.3% of shares of all BANKS SOUTHWEST companies are owned by institutional investors. 6.0% of Southside Bancshares shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 13.3% of shares of all BANKS SOUTHWEST companies are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term. Southside Bancshares has a beta of 0.68, indicating that its share price is 32% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Southside Bancshares competitors have a beta of 0.52, indicating that their average share price is 48% less volatile than the S&P 500. Dividends Southside Bancshares pays an annual dividend of $1.44 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.7%. Southside Bancshares pays out 51.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BANKS SOUTHWEST companies pay a dividend yield of 2.0% and pay out 20.1% of their earnings in the form of a dividend. Southside Bancshares has increased its dividend for 30 consecutive years. Summary Southside Bancshares competitors beat Southside Bancshares on 6 of the 11 factors compared. Southside Bancshares Company Profile (Get Free Report) Southside Bancshares, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Southside Bank that provides a range of financial services to individuals, businesses, municipal entities, and nonprofit organizations. Its deposit products include savings, money market, and interest and noninterest bearing checking accounts, as well as certificates of deposit. The companys loan portfolio comprises consumer loans that include 1-4 family residential loans, home equity loans, home improvement loans, automobile loans, and other consumer related loans; commercial loans, such as short-term working capital loans for inventory and accounts receivable, short and medium-term loans for equipment or other business capital expansion, commercial real estate loans, and municipal loans; and construction loans for 1-4 family residential and commercial real estate. It also offers wealth management and trust services consisting of investment management, administration, revocable and testamentary trusts, and custodian services for individuals, partnerships, and corporations; safe deposit services; and brokerage services. As of December 31, 2021, the company operated through 56 banking facilities and 73 ATMs/ITMs. Southside Bancshares, Inc. was founded in 1960 and is headquartered in Tyler, Texas. Receive News & Ratings for Southside Bancshares Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Southside Bancshares and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sei Investments Co. reduced its stake in Invesco Senior Loan ETF (NYSEARCA:BKLN Free Report) by 0.3% in the 1st quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,918,795 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 9,802 shares during the quarter. Sei Investments Co. owned about 0.98% of Invesco Senior Loan ETF worth $60,420,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. boosted its position in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 1.1% in the 1st quarter. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. now owns 46,135 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $955,000 after purchasing an additional 505 shares in the last quarter. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC boosted its position in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 4.3% in the 4th quarter. United Capital Financial Advisors LLC now owns 12,803 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $270,000 after purchasing an additional 528 shares in the last quarter. Adams Wealth Management boosted its position in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 1.1% in the 4th quarter. Adams Wealth Management now owns 55,377 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,167,000 after purchasing an additional 594 shares in the last quarter. Consolidated Portfolio Review Corp boosted its position in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 3.9% in the 1st quarter. Consolidated Portfolio Review Corp now owns 16,462 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $341,000 after purchasing an additional 611 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sowell Financial Services LLC boosted its position in Invesco Senior Loan ETF by 2.8% in the 1st quarter. Sowell Financial Services LLC now owns 23,788 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $492,000 after purchasing an additional 656 shares in the last quarter. Get Invesco Senior Loan ETF alerts: Invesco Senior Loan ETF Stock Up 0.0% Shares of BKLN stock opened at $20.97 on Thursday. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $20.93 and a 200-day simple moving average of $20.85. Invesco Senior Loan ETF has a 1-year low of $20.02 and a 1-year high of $21.19. Invesco Senior Loan ETF Profile The Invesco Senior Loan ETF (BKLN) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks a market-value-weighted index of senior loans issued by banks to corporations. BKLN was launched on Mar 3, 2011 and is managed by Invesco. Read More Receive News & Ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Invesco Senior Loan ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Sun Life Financial (TSE:SLF Free Report) (NYSE:SLF) had its target price lowered by Scotiabank from C$88.00 to C$83.00 in a research report sent to investors on Monday morning,BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage currently has a sector perform rating on the financial services providers stock. Several other brokerages also recently issued reports on SLF. Desjardins lowered their price objective on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$95.00 to C$90.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Monday. Royal Bank Of Canada lowered their price objective on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$88.00 to C$84.00 in a research report on Monday. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$96.00 to C$90.00 in a research report on Monday, April 21st. Barclays downgraded shares of Sun Life Financial from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Monday, July 7th. Finally, TD Securities increased their price objective on shares of Sun Life Financial from C$83.00 to C$86.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Friday, May 9th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$86.67. Get Sun Life Financial alerts: Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on SLF Sun Life Financial Stock Up 0.5% Sun Life Financial Announces Dividend SLF opened at C$79.79 on Monday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of C$86.07 and a 200 day moving average price of C$83.45. The company has a market cap of C$45.58 billion, a PE ratio of 12.03, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.33 and a beta of 0.94. Sun Life Financial has a 1 year low of C$69.40 and a 1 year high of C$91.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 26.00, a quick ratio of 84,866.00 and a current ratio of 92.19. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, August 27th will be given a dividend of $0.88 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, August 27th. This represents a $3.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.4%. Sun Life Financials dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 48.87%. Insider Activity at Sun Life Financial In related news, Director Kevin Strain purchased 3,850 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, June 5th. The stock was acquired at an average price of C$89.10 per share, with a total value of C$343,035.00. Also, Senior Officer Jacques Jr. Goulet sold 44,199 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, June 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$88.17, for a total transaction of C$3,897,025.83. Insiders sold a total of 161,909 shares of company stock worth $14,216,427 over the last three months. 0.03% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Sun Life Financial Company Profile (Get Free Report) Sun Life Financial is one of Canadas Big Three life insurance companies along with Great-West Lifeco and Manulife. Sun Life provides insurance, retirement, and wealth-management services to individual and corporate customers in Canada, the United States, and Asia. It also owns MFS Investment Management, a Boston-based asset-management firm. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Sun Life Financial Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Sun Life Financial and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH Free Report) by 6.0% in the first quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 39,485 shares of the electronics makers stock after buying an additional 2,249 shares during the quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Amphenol were worth $2,590,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in Amphenol by 1.9% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 154,998,780 shares of the electronics makers stock valued at $10,166,370,000 after buying an additional 2,870,933 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its holdings in Amphenol by 36.8% during the 4th quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 58,911,813 shares of the electronics makers stock valued at $4,091,426,000 after buying an additional 15,837,407 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE raised its holdings in Amphenol by 294.0% during the 4th quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 24,953,591 shares of the electronics makers stock valued at $1,733,027,000 after buying an additional 18,619,417 shares during the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its holdings in Amphenol by 14.9% during the 4th quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 13,065,802 shares of the electronics makers stock valued at $907,420,000 after buying an additional 1,689,632 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. raised its holdings in Amphenol by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 9,198,997 shares of the electronics makers stock valued at $603,362,000 after buying an additional 141,069 shares during the last quarter. 97.01% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Get Amphenol alerts: Insider Activity In related news, insider William J. Doherty sold 113,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $110.29, for a total transaction of $12,462,770.00. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, VP David M. Silverman sold 100,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, May 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $89.09, for a total transaction of $8,909,000.00. Following the sale, the vice president directly owned 12,500 shares in the company, valued at $1,113,625. This trade represents a 88.89% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 812,000 shares of company stock valued at $77,703,320. Company insiders own 1.67% of the companys stock. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several research analysts have commented on the stock. Industrial Alliance Securities set a $115.00 price objective on shares of Amphenol in a report on Friday, July 11th. Fox Advisors upgraded shares of Amphenol from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $85.00 price objective for the company in a report on Thursday, April 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Amphenol from $120.00 to $125.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. UBS Group upped their price objective on shares of Amphenol from $115.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group restated a buy rating on shares of Amphenol in a report on Friday, July 11th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Amphenol currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $104.92. Get Our Latest Stock Report on APH Amphenol Stock Down 1.9% Shares of Amphenol stock opened at $109.75 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61, a current ratio of 2.02 and a quick ratio of 1.46. The company has a 50-day moving average of $100.21 and a 200 day moving average of $81.62. The firm has a market cap of $134.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 43.73, a PEG ratio of 1.82 and a beta of 1.13. Amphenol Corporation has a 1 year low of $56.45 and a 1 year high of $112.35. Amphenol (NYSE:APH Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The electronics maker reported $0.81 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.66 by $0.15. Amphenol had a net margin of 16.90% and a return on equity of 30.58%. The company had revenue of $5.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.01 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.44 EPS. Amphenols quarterly revenue was up 56.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that Amphenol Corporation will post 2.36 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. Amphenol Dividend Announcement The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, October 8th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 16th will be given a dividend of $0.165 per share. This represents a $0.66 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, September 16th. Amphenols dividend payout ratio is 26.29%. About Amphenol (Free Report) Amphenol Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, primarily designs, manufactures, and markets electrical, electronic, and fiber optic connectors in the United States, China, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Harsh Environment Solutions, Communications Solutions, and Interconnect and Sensor Systems. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding APH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Amphenol Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Amphenol and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund grew its position in shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V Free Report) by 14.5% during the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 455,183 shares of the credit-card processors stock after purchasing an additional 57,800 shares during the period. Visa makes up about 1.9% of Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds investment portfolio, making the stock its 6th largest position. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Visa were worth $159,523,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Holderness Investments Co. raised its stake in shares of Visa by 3.1% during the first quarter. Holderness Investments Co. now owns 8,413 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $2,948,000 after purchasing an additional 250 shares during the period. American Money Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Visa by 0.5% in the first quarter. American Money Management LLC now owns 34,046 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $11,932,000 after buying an additional 179 shares during the last quarter. Boston Partners increased its stake in shares of Visa by 0.9% in the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 524,762 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $183,837,000 after buying an additional 4,639 shares during the last quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Visa by 43.2% in the first quarter. E Fund Management Co. Ltd. now owns 26,601 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $9,323,000 after buying an additional 8,021 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Visa by 26.7% in the first quarter. Financial Network Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,035 shares of the credit-card processors stock worth $363,000 after buying an additional 218 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.15% of the companys stock. Get Visa alerts: Insider Activity In other news, insider Paul D. Fabara sold 11,636 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, June 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $375.00, for a total value of $4,363,500.00. Following the transaction, the insider owned 26,413 shares in the company, valued at $9,904,875. This represents a 30.58% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 8,630 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, July 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $353.82, for a total value of $3,053,466.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 537 shares in the company, valued at $190,001.34. This represents a 94.14% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 75,100 shares of company stock worth $27,643,224. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Truist Financial dropped their price target on shares of Visa from $400.00 to $397.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, July 17th. Macquarie lifted their price target on shares of Visa from $380.00 to $425.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on shares of Visa from $400.00 to $410.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, May 27th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Visa from $386.00 to $402.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Finally, Citigroup started coverage on shares of Visa in a research note on Monday, June 2nd. They set a buy rating for the company. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, twenty-three have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Visa presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $380.84. Read Our Latest Report on Visa Visa Price Performance NYSE V opened at $342.66 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $351.11 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $347.19. The company has a current ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52. The company has a market cap of $628.02 billion, a PE ratio of 33.46, a PEG ratio of 2.24 and a beta of 0.94. Visa Inc. has a 1 year low of $258.74 and a 1 year high of $375.51. Visa (NYSE:V Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, July 29th. The credit-card processor reported $2.98 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.85 by $0.13. The firm had revenue of $10.17 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.82 billion. Visa had a return on equity of 58.93% and a net margin of 52.16%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 14.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $2.42 EPS. On average, analysts predict that Visa Inc. will post 11.3 EPS for the current year. Visa Announces Dividend The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 12th will be issued a dividend of $0.59 per share. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, August 12th. Visas payout ratio is presently 23.05%. Visa Profile (Free Report) Visa Inc operates as a payment technology company in the United States and internationally. The company operates VisaNet, a transaction processing network that enables authorization, clearing, and settlement of payment transactions. It also offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products; tap to pay, tokenization, and click to pay services; Visa Direct, a solution that facilitates the delivery of funds to eligible cards, deposit accounts, and digital wallets; Visa B2B Connect, a multilateral business-to-business cross-border payments network; Visa Cross-Border Solution, a cross-border consumer payments solution; and Visa DPS that provides a range of value-added services, including fraud mitigation, dispute management, data analytics, campaign management, a suite of digital solutions, and contact center services. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding V? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Visa Inc. (NYSE:V Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Visa Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Visa and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. By News Centre Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated thatA new Syria must be one in which all peoples, beliefs, and cultures are preserved, and where coexistence is possible. As Turkiye, we are encouraging this direction. Fidan made his remarks during a joint press conference following his meeting with Syrian Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Sheybani at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara. Referring to recent developments, Fidan said that certain actions were being carried out to halt or reverse positive momentum in Syria. Regarding the events in Sweida, he remarked: One of the biggest actors in this dark scenario has been Israel. Fidan underlined that Israels expansionist policies in the region also directly involve Syria. He stressed the importance of all parties supporting the process in Syria and ensuring that all communities in the country feel equal, adding: A new Syria must be a Syria where all peoples, beliefs, and cultures are preserved in unity and coexistence. As Turkiye, we are encouraging this. He further emphasized that the Syrian governments own stance aligns with this vision, but acknowledged that implementing certain steps would take time. At this point, we are beginning to see developments that we can no longer tolerate. We see that militants coming from Turkiye, Iraq, Iran, and Europe have not left Syria. Since March 10, nor in the aftermath of the processes underway in Turkiye, we have not seen any indication that the organization has acted in a way to build confidence or to remove the threat posed by its armed presence. On the contrary, we see that in both Damascus and Ankara, the organization is waitingtrying to prolong its existence and maximize its benefit from a possible future crisis. They should not think we are unaware of this. Fidan stressed that Turkiye is closely monitoring the situation in Syria and continues to support ongoing efforts. He delivered a clear message to the PKK/YPG: The outcome they are waiting for in Syria will not materialize. In an environment where Turkiyes security demands are not met, we have no chance to remain comfortable here. President Erdo?an has repeatedly underlined this. My call to the YPG is this: stop being a threat to Turkiye and the region, and rid yourselves immediately of the terrorists you have gathered from all around the world. For his part, Syrian Foreign Minister Esad Hasan Sheybani declared that the Hasakah Conference represented a violation of the agreement on the integration of the PKK/YPGoperating under the name SDFinto state institutions. Speaking alongside Fidan at the joint press conference, Sheybani said: The Hasakah Conference does not represent the Syrian people and was a failed attempt. He added that the conference sought to exploit the events in Sweida, while also constituting a breach of the integration agreement with state institutions. Meanwhile, Turkiyes diplomatic engagements on Syria and Gaza continue in Qatar. Foreign Minister Fidan, who arrived yesterday in Doha, held talks with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani. The discussions focused on the strategic partnership between Turkiye and Qatar, as well as developing a common stance against attempts by certain actors to block stability in Syria. On Gaza, Turkiye expressed appreciation for Qatars mediation efforts on a ceasefire together with Egypt and the United States, reiterating its readiness to support every constructive initiative. The parties are also expected to assess the current status of the ceasefire talks, efforts to halt Israels attacks, and possible additional steps toward a two-state solution. By Florence Tan, Georgina McCartney and Robert Harvey SINGAPORE/HOUSTON/LONDON (Reuters) -Premiums for prompt benchmark oil prices globally are falling compared with those in future months on rising output from the Middle East, Latin America and Europe, just as peak summer demand ends, traders and analysts said on Thursday. Easing concerns that the U.S. could impose more sanctions on Russia and further disrupt oil supplies are also weighing on oil prices, they said. The six-month time spreads for Brent futures (BZ=F), U.S. West Texas Intermediate futures (CL=F) and Middle East marker Dubai have narrowed by more than $1 a barrel in backwardation since the start of the month. Backwardation refers to a market structure where prompt prices are higher than those in future months, indicating tight supply. A narrowing of the structure indicates a market view that supplies are expected to rise. "Brent and Dubai time spreads are softening mainly on expectations of incremental OPEC+ supply from September and easing fears of Russian disruption after recent steady flows via both Baltic and Black Sea," said Shohruh Zukhritdinov, a Dubai-based oil trader. "U.S. crude supply remains stable, but refinery runs will gradually decline into the shoulder season, easing prompt tightness," he said. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet in Alaska on Friday to strike a ceasefire deal in Ukraine. Citi analysts said Brent could land in the low-$60s per barrel area, if there is progress towards a U.S.-Russia deal. Rising supply, End of summer Traders are bracing for more supplies after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies, known as OPEC+, agreed to increase September output, just as non-OPEC producers such as Guyana, Brazil and Norway launched new production. Peak oil demand during the Northern Hemisphere summer is also ending, cooling red-hot diesel margins in Europe and reducing the burning of crude for power in Saudi Arabia, the sources said. "We saw a lot of selling in the window, with expectation around crude demand revised down as refinery margins weaken as gasoil/diesel cracks unravel," said Harry Tchilinguirian, group head of research at Onyx Capital Group, referring to physical trade in the North Sea market. "Now that seasonal demand is going to unwind, and we cannot be sure that China will keep up elevated imports (for stockpiling), so where does the extra Saudi barrels go?" Meanwhile, spot premiums for Middle East benchmarks Dubai and Oman hovered at their lowest in more than a month for October-loading supply. [CRU/M] Key Points On grew revenue by 32% in the second quarter, with particular strength in direct-to-consumer sales. Foreign currency fluctuations tanked the bottom line, but gross margin and operating profit both improved. The company raised its full-year revenue outlook to reflect its increasing confidence despite a tough economic backdrop. These 10 stocks could mint the next wave of millionaires Here's our initial take on On Holding's (NYSE: ONON) fiscal 2025 second-quarter financial report. Key Metrics Metric Q2 2024 Q2 2025 Change vs. Expectations Revenue (Swiss francs) 567.7 million 749.2 million +32% Beat Earnings per share (adjusted, Swiss francs) 0.14 (0.09) N/A Missed Gross profit margin 59.9% 61.5% +1.6 pp n/a Direct-to-consumer sales (Swiss francs) 209.4 million 308.3 million +47% n/a Powering Through a Tough Environment You wouldn't know there was intense global economic uncertainty based on On Holding's Q2 results. Revenue for the Switzerland-based premium footwear, apparel, and accessories manufacturer soared by 32% year over year, or by 38.2% adjusting for currency, while direct-to-consumer sales rocketed 47.2% higher. The wholesale channel was strong as well with 23.1% revenue growth. Geographically, On reported solid growth across the board. Revenue was up 42.9% in Europe, Middle East, and Africa, up 16.8% in the Americas, and up 101.3% in the Asia-Pacific region. Revenue from shoes soared 29.9% to 704.9 million Swiss francs, accounting for most of On's sales, while revenue from apparel jumped 67.5% to 36.7 million Swiss francs. On seemingly missed analyst expectations for adjusted earnings per share, but currency fluctuations were to blame. Gross margin improved to 61.5%, up 1.6 percentage points year over year, while operating income nearly doubled. The issue was a 139.9 million Swiss franc foreign exchange loss, which led On to report an adjusted net loss of 0.09 Swiss francs per share. With a strong second quarter in the books, On raised its outlook for full-year sales. The company now expects to produce at least 31% constant-currency revenue growth, up from previous guidance calling for 28% growth. Gross margin is now expected between 60.5% and 61%, a half-point bump, and adjusted EBITDA margin is expected between 17% and 17.5%. Immediate Market Reaction The share price of On was up around 15% in premarket trading with 90 minutes to go before the market opened. While On fell well short of earnings expectations, the miss was due to currency fluctuations. What to Watch The strength of On's sales against the backdrop of tariffs and global economic uncertainty speaks volumes about the company's brand. That said, the Americas was the slowest-growing region for On in the second quarter, and the situation could deteriorate as the year goes on. This story was originally published on Banking Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Banking Dive newsletter. Paxos, a blockchain infrastructure and tokenization platform, has applied for a national trust charter with the Comptroller of the Currency, the firm said Monday. Paxos seeks to convert its New York Department of Financial Services trust charter, which it received in 2015, to a national trust charter under the OCCs supervision. Paxos was the first blockchain and tokenization company to get a limited purpose charter and issued the first regulated stablecoin in 2018, according to the company. Its Paxos second attempt to secure a national trust charter. The firm first applied in December 2020 and received conditional approval from the OCC in April 2021. However, that approval expired in March 2023 because Paxos failed to meet the 18-month operational window required by OCC rules. By applying for a national trust bank charter, we are continuing to offer enterprise partners and consumers the safest, most trusted infrastructure available. This is rooted in our belief in the transformative power of blockchain as a force for financial freedom, Charles Cascarilla, CEO and co-founder of Paxos, said in a statement. OCC oversight will help build on our historic commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and transparency. If approved for the charter, Paxos would maintain a multi-jurisdictional regulatory framework including the OCC in the U.S., FIN-FSA in Europe, MAS in Singapore and FSRA in Abu Dhabi, the company noted. All Paxos-issued assets will remain fully backed by bankruptcy-remote reserves held in U.S. dollars, U.S. Treasuries and cash equivalents with guaranteed 1:1 redemption. The OCC stamp of approval would provide Paxos a number of business advantages, said Liat Shetret, vice president of global policy and regulation at Elliptic, a fintech specializing in blockchain analytics. You have one federal, very strong regulator, who oversees you, and you avoid this idea of needing to go state by state by state by state, which has significant cost and a lot of concern for businesses, because they're always trying to meet and exceed different obligations in different states, and the OCC gives them this one path, she said. A national trust bank charter differs from a traditional bank charter in that it has a more limited scope of authorization for financial activities. A trust company manages assets and administers trusts on behalf of individuals or organizations; it cannot lend or take insured deposits since it is not an insured depository institution. With strong share price gains and significant hedge fund interest, Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE:PBT) secures a spot on our list of the 13 Hot Oil Stocks to Buy Now. Permian Basin Royalty Trust (PBT) Declares July Cash Distribution; Reports Excess Cost Position on Waddell Ranch Properties An oil tanker heading out to sea, a symbol of the company's processes and operations. On July 21, 2025, Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE:PBT) declared a $0.015 per unit cash distribution, which is payable on August 14 to holders of record on July 31. This cash distribution, which is an increase compared to last month, reflects stronger natural gas volumes and elevated oil and gas prices from the Texas Royalty Properties. The distribution does not include proceeds from the Waddell Ranch properties, where production costs for the month of May exceeded revenues. Meanwhile, Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE:PBT) announced that litigation between the Trustee and Blackbeard continues. The trial concerning more than $9 million in alleged unpaid royalties and improper deductions dating back to April 2020 is set to take place on November 17, 2025. For July, the Texas Royalty Properties contributed $901,654 net profit, reflecting oil at $68.37/bbl and gas at $11.75/Mcf. Permian Basin Royalty Trust (NYSE:PBT), based in Dallas, Texas, operates as a U.S. oil and gas royalty trust. It is included in our list of the hot stocks to buy. While we acknowledge the potential of PBT 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: 10 Best AI Stocks to Buy Under $3 and Bill Ackman Stock Portfolio: Top 10 Stock Picks. Disclosure: None. Pfizer, Inc. (PFE) stock is incredibly cheap following management's raise of its 2025 adjusted earnings per share guidance. It's at just over 8x this year's estimates and 7.8x next year. That's too cheap. Shorting out-of-the-money (OTM) put options works here. PFE is at $24.59 today, up slightly from before its Aug. 5 earnings release. I discussed how statistically cheap PFE was in my July 29 Barchart article ("Pfizer Stock Is a Value Play Ahead of Earnings - Investors Can Short PFE Puts for Income"). More News from Barchart PFE stock - last 6 months - Barchart - Aug. 12, 2025 I set the price target at $34.41, +42% at the time, based on an average of its historical P/E multiples, dividend yield averages, and analysts' price targets. The updated price target is $33.58, providing at least a +36% potential upside in PFE stock. Pfizer Raises Its Guidance and Analysts Up Their Targets Pfizer's Q2 revenue came in +8.3% stronger than expected, according to Seeking Alpha, and adjusted earnings per share (EPS) were 21 cents higher than expected at $0.78. Those surprises help push up PFE stock after earnings. It could have further to go based on management's earnings guidance. Pfizer said it now expects adj. EPS to be 10 cents higher in 2025, between $2.90 and $3.10. As a result, analysts have now raised their 2025 estimates to $3.05 per share, up from $3.30 from prior (see my Barchart article last week). That means its 2025 forward price/earnings (P/E) multiple is just 8.06x. And for 2026, they have raised their EPS estimates to $3.13 per share (up from $3.08 beforehand), putting PFE stock on a forward multiple of just 7.86x. Target Prices P/E Target Prices. But the average multiple for the past 5 years has been 10.75x, according to Seeking Alpha, and 10.12x, according to Morningstar, for an average of 10.435x: $3.09 (average 2025 and 2025 EPS estimates) x 10.435 = $32.24 target price Dividend Yield Target Prices. Moreover, using its historical dividend yield average of 4.68%, Pfizer's annual $1.72 dividend per share (SPS) makes PFE stock worth: $1.72 DPS / 0.0468 = $36.75 target price However, over the next 12 months, Pfizer will likely raise its DPS, as it has done over the past 14 years. Assuming the DPS rises 5% to $1.81, the target price over the next 12 months is: If all goes as anticipated, Sealdah Division could roll out air-conditioned local EMU trains in two more lines soon. The division launched the commercial services of the AC locals earlier this week. The train runs between Sealdah and Ranaghat stations making a round trip every day. From Ranaghat junction station, the train starts at 8.29 a.m. and reaches Sealdah at 10.10 a.m. On the return journey, from Sealdah station, it departs at 6.50 p.m. and reaches Ranaghat at around 8.32 p.m. The much patronised AC local on the lines of the local EMUs being operated in various routes of Mumbai, runs as galloping train and has stoppages at Chakdaha, Kalyani, Kanchrapara, Barrackpore, Naihati, Khardaha, Sodpur, Dum Dum Junction and Bidhannagar Road stations en route. Advertisement According to official sources in the division, the timing of the train has been decided, particularly keeping the working people in mind. People heading towards Kolkata are able to reach here in the morning hours. After their work is done or office hours are over they can board the train in the evening and return home in around one-and-a-half hours, said an official. Advertisement Since the commencement of the commercial services last Monday, the train with over 1,100 seats is said to be popular with commuters. With the pre-Puja shopping crowd likely to swell in the next few weeks, the train is anticipated to have higher commuter count. Even during Durga Puja, the new train service is expected to be a crowd puller. Considering the fact, the Sealdah Division has made elaborate plans for expanding the services of the premium local train to other routes. As learnt from official sources, the divisional authorities are considering extending the AC local train services to Krishnanagar and Bongaon Lines. However, as the authorities are closely studying the patronage of the train for some time now, a deadline for the commencement of the services to the two additional routes is yet to be decided. In a bizarre crime that has exposed the dark underbelly of Indias lucrative human hair export trade, a truck laden with 1,500 kg of hair worth nearly Rs 1 crore was hijacked in Nadia district, its driver abducted, and the precious cargo siphoned off. Police have arrested five men, including a civic volunteer, and identified an 18-year-old dropout with a history of violent crime as the mastermind. Advertisement The consignmentcomprising around 30 gunny bags of hairwas on its way from Hyderabad to Beldanga in Murshidabad, where 14 traders planned to process and export it to Istanbul, Bangladesh, Myanmar and other markets. Human hair, processed into wigs and other products, brings handsome profits to exporters and sustains a wide network of jobs. Advertisement Police said the accused, identified as Chairuddin Sheikh, Hasibul Sheikh, Mosharaf Halsana (a civic volunteer), Mohammad Rani Sheikh, and Kamaluddin Sheikh, were picked up from different locations in Nadia and Murshidabad over two days. All were produced in the Krishnagar district judges court, which remanded them in police custody for three days. The alleged ringleader, Rani Sheikh, left school a few years ago and reportedly took to dacoity and robbery. He had earlier been accused in a heist case in Jharkhand. Acting on an intelligence input, police nabbed him late Monday from Dhubulia. The truck began its journey in Hyderabad and had nearly reached Shalimar when it came under the gangs surveillance. It was later hijacked, and the driver abducted to Shantipur. By early Sunday morning, the vehicle had been driven to Bholadanga in Nakashipara, where the hair sacks were unloaded. The abandoned truck was found at Jugpur roadside. The loot was split between Chairuddin Sheikhs residence and a godown belonging to Mosharaf Halsana. Acting on tip-offs and CCTV footage, police traced the chain of events. Suspicion deepened when two unusually light gunny bags were spotted outside a police sources home in Haridrapota and similar bags found in Bholadanga. Investigators suspect the motive may have been rooted in rivalry among traderspossibly to fabricate a robbery story, pressure the transporter for extra payment, and still retain the goods for illicit profit. However, the plan unravelled as police closed in. Additional superintendent of police Meet Kumar told reporters: We have arrested five people, including a civic volunteer. The investigation is continuing. The case has created a stir in the region, where the high-value hair trade is little known to the public but forms a quiet backbone of export-linked livelihoods. A delivery worker died on Wednesday evening after getting trapped between a roadside railing and a burning car following a collision in Salt Lake, triggering violent protests by local residents that led to clashes with police. The incident occurred near the No. 8 bridge between Kestopur and Salt Lake when a four-wheeler collided with a courier service vehicle, lost control and struck the roadside railing, police said. The car exploded moments later and was engulfed in flames. Eyewitnesses said the delivery worker, who was on a motorbike, got stuck between the railing and the burning vehicle. While occupants of the car were rescued, the worker could not be freed in time and died at the scene. Two others were injured, one critically, and taken to hospital. Fire services received the call at 5.40 p.m. and two engines were pressed into service. Advertisement Residents accused police of negligence. The police were just filming videos instead of rescuing people, one witness told reporters. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd after some attempted to block traffic from both ends of the bridge. The situation turned into a pitched battle, with stones thrown from both sides for several minutes. A senior police officer denied inaction, saying officers rescued trapped passengers and sent them to hospital. We had to use tear gas when protesters tried to block the road, he said. The cause of the accident remains under investigation by Salt Lake East police station. Advertisement The state government has made screening of Bengal films mandatory in cinema halls and multiplexes across Bengal. A notification in this regard was issued by the information and cultural affairs department today. Advertisement The notification read: 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 of the year. Prime Time shows shall mean shows held between 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Advertisement The decision was taken after attacks and humiliation of Bengali-speaking migrant workers in BJP-ruled states became rampant. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee took part in rallies in the city and later in Bolpur and Jhargram to raise her voice against the attack and humiliation of the Bengal workers in other states. The situation turned from bad to worse when Amit Malviya, BJP IT cell head said Bengali is not a language and the Delhi Police mentioned Bengali as Bangladeshi language. Minister Aroop Biswas met the actors of Bollywood last week and discussed the matter. Rituparna Sengupta and Dev attended the meeting with others. Director Arindam Sil said: The state government has done everything to promote Bengali cinema. Now, it is the responsibility of the directors, producers and music directors to produce and direct good Bengali feature films. It may be recalled that while giving away prizes to commemorate the death anniversary of Uttam Kumar, chief minister Mamata Banerjee had requested the directors to use more Bengali songs in films and telefilms. She also urged them not to show violence and instead of entertaining the audience it causes tension. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced reforms to the Cheque Truncation System (CTS), stating that starting October 4, 2025, cheques will be cleared within hours instead of up to two working days, thereby transforming cheque processing into a real-time experience during business hours. 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, which is 3 hours from 11:00 AM. Advertisement In phase 1, which will be from 4 October 2025 to 2 January 2026, continuous scanning (10 AM4 PM) will come into force, where drawee banks must confirm cheques by 7 PM, or else they will be auto-approved for settlement that night. Advertisement In phase 2, from 3 January 2026, cheques need to be confirmed within 3 hours of receipt. Funds will be credited within 1 hour post-settlement. According to the RBI, cheques for which the drawee bank does not provide confirmation in the prescribed 3 hours, shall be treated as deemed approved and included for settlement at 2:00 PM. 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. The RBI further said that for every cheque presented, the drawee bank shall generate either a positive confirmation (for honoured cheques) or a negative confirmation (for dishonoured cheques). At its 107th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, shareholders of Tata Sons, the unlisted $150-billion holding company of the Tata Group, overwhelmingly approved the appointment of Noel N Tata, the half-brother of the late Tata Group chairperson Ratan Tata, along with three other directors to its board. Noel Tata, who became chairman of Tata Trusts in October 2024, was nominated to the Tata Sons Board by the trusts and appointed as an additional director last year. Advertisement Tata Sons shareholders have also approved the reappointment of Venu Srinivasan and Saurabh Agrawal, as well as appointed Anita Marangoly George, the co-founder and CEO of emerging-markets growth fund Prosperete, as an independent director. Advertisement Noel Tata is the son of Naval Hormusji Tata and his second wife, Simone Tata, a former chairperson of Lakme, a well-known beauty and cosmetics brand which was later sold to Hindustan Lever. Noel Tata graduated from the University of Sussex in the UK and also pursued an advanced management programme at INSEAD, France, which provided him with a strong educational background in business management. Noel Tatas last executive assignment was as the Managing Director of Tata International Limited, the trading and distribution arm of the Tata Group, between August 2010 and November 2021, where he grew the company from a turnover of 500 million dollars to over 3 billion dollars. Before his stint at Tata International, Noel Tata served as the Managing Director of Trent Limited for over 11 years, where he oversaw the growth of Trent across formats from a one-store operation in 1998 to a network of more than 800 stores across formats. Social Welfare Minister of Delhi Ravinder Indraj Singh on Thursday hoisted the national flag at Ravi Shankar Sarvodaya Kanya Vidyalaya in North West Delhis Bawana, extending Independence Day greetings to the students, teachers, and parents in advance. The minister honoured the girl students who excelled in academics, sports, and other activities while praising the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that nations daughters are bringing glory to the country, be it by protecting its borders, and to exploring space. Advertisement Indraj said both the President of India and the chief minister of Delhi are serving as inspiring examples of womens empowerment, and urged the students to become self-reliant and play an active role in nation-building. Advertisement He also emphasised that womens participation in Indias development journey is not only socially, but also economically essential. When daughters progress, the nation will reach new heights in every field, he added. Citing inspirational examples, the minister said Kalpana Chawla rose from a small town to touch the heights of space, P.V. Sindhu brought India global recognition in the world of sports, and Captain Tania Shergill set a new milestone in military history by leading the Republic Day parade. These examples show that with hard work, self-confidence, and determination, daughters can achieve success in every field, he stated. Encouraging the students, he said that the daughters who dream and have the courage to realise those dreams become the true strength of the nation. Earlier, as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav and the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, Indraj hoisted the tri- color at his residence in Rohini, and paid tributes to the great heroes of the nation. War 2 Review: The much-anticipated War 2 is finally in theatres, but the response from audiences has been far from unanimous. Released on 14 August 2025, just ahead of the Independence Day weekend, the film entered cinemas with enormous expectations. While many fans are praising its action and star power, others are calling it over-hyped, saying the story doesnt quite match the scale of the production. Advertisement Directed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films, War 2 is the sixth film in the YRF Spy Universe and a direct sequel to the 2019 blockbuster War. This time, Hrithik Roshan returns as the suave and skilled spy Kabir, joined by Telugu superstar N. T. Rama Rao Jr., who makes his debut in the franchise. Advertisement Kiara Advani takes on the female lead, while Ashutosh Rana and Anil Kapoor appear in key supporting roles. The story is written by Shridhar Raghavan and Abbas Tyrewala, from an original idea by Chopra. One thing everyone seems to agree on is that War 2 is visually impressive. Released in IMAX, 4DX, D-Box, ICE, Dolby Cinema, and standard formats, the film offers an immersive viewing experience. However, while the action has earned applause, the plot has divided viewers. Some fans on X (formerly Twitter) feel the movie has too many twists for its own good, while others complained about a slow middle act that disrupts the momentum. War 2 X review: I have so much to say but dont want to give spoilers, but one of the best Spy movie of YRF in terms of non stop action. Only watch in theatres to experience it right!!! #War2 #HrithikRoshan #JrNTR pic.twitter.com/nQugngVL2K K k k Kiran (@kkkKiran0) August 14, 2025 #War2 4.5 STARS The Movie is different from all other SPY UNIVERSE movies that we have seen before The movie has a base in its story , the emotional and twist factors keeps the movie going , trust me when I say this the last half n hour is SO GOOD , where it was pic.twitter.com/MWkXOcchch A N K I T (@Ankitaker) August 14, 2025 NTR Introduction with Shaitaan RAP is worth ticket price Ramp #War2 Raavi (@RaaviNtr) August 14, 2025 Even among the criticism, the cast has received near-universal praise. Hrithik Roshans return as Kabir has been called magnetic. Several fans said his action scenes and screen presence are worth the ticket price alone. NTR Jr.s entry into the franchise has been equally celebrated, with viewers appreciating his charisma and physicality. Kiara Advani has also been praised for playing a bold, intelligent character. Ashutosh Rana and Anil Kapoor bring authority to the story, but some fans felt their roles were under-used. But there are some negative reactions too. #War2Review: TERRIBLE! #War2 is full torture. Only loud music and slo-mo entries,thats it. Weak story, poor VFX & predictable twists. #HrithikRoshans performance is flat; #JrNTR is fine. #War2 isnt just the worst film in the SpyUni, but its the worst action film in recent pic.twitter.com/RG8Au85zjr MASS (@Freak4Salman) August 14, 2025 #War2: Mediocre and Substandard Spy Drama that looks patchy. #HrithikRoshan & #NTR tries to save it but fails miserably Action set pieces are good.. (@BheeshmaTalks) August 14, 2025 War 2 is a recycled, same-old template with no genuine highs or enjoyable moments between the leads in a lengthy runtime. Overall its a disappointing action film in YRF series after Tiger 3. A let-down review focused on the story WAR 2 DAY Chemistry (@Chemistry259194) August 14, 2025 Watched both #CoolieThePowerHouse and #War2 neither lived up to the hype. Coolie was just above average, but War 2 was an outright disaster. SIMON (@Jamadaagni) August 14, 2025 Within hours of its release, hashtags like #War2, #HrithikRoshan, and #NTRJr began trending. But unlike some blockbuster releases that get almost universal praise, the War 2 conversation has been more balanced: a mix of glowing admiration and sharp criticism. UK-based Pole Star Global, which specialises in voyage optimisation and dark vessel detection, has acquired maritime risk intelligence company Clearwater Dynamics. Financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed. Clearwater Dynamics, also based in the UK, focuses on situational awareness within high-risk maritime environments. Its Coral platform is known for its role in managing marine war insurance risk, aiding insurers and brokers in the assessment and mitigation of risks within international shipping lanes. Pole Star Global will integrate Clearwater Dynamics' real-time vessel risk monitoring as well as marine insurance capabilities into its existing portfolio. The Coral platform's real-time risk assessment tools are set to complement Pole Star Global's maritime intelligence services, according to a press release from Pole Star Global. Furthermore, the acquisition will bolster Pole Star Global's proprietary data platform, DOMAIN, through the inclusion of new data sources derived from Clearwater Dynamics' operational network. Pole Star Global CEO Bob Skea said: This acquisition is a natural extension of our vision. Clearwater Dynamics brings the same real-time intelligence to vessel operators and marine underwriters and brokers, creating a seamless, data-rich ecosystem that spans the operational, regulatory and insurance layers of maritime risk. Clearwater Dynamics CEO Will Unwin stated: Joining Pole Star Global enables us to scale Corals capabilities and reach a wider global audience. Together, we will empower clients to make faster, more confident decisions when navigating the high-risk, high-stakes world of maritime logistics and insurance. "Pole Star Global buys maritime tech company Clearwater Dynamics " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. Actor Manchu Lakshmi appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday for questioning in connection with an investigation into alleged illegal betting app promotions. The ED had recently summoned Lakshmi as part of its ongoing probe into suspected money laundering linked to these online platforms. She is one of several well-known faces to face probe in the matter. Advertisement Actors Prakash Raj, Vijay Deverakonda, and Rana Daggubati have also appeared for questioning in the same case. Advertisement Vijay Deverakondas team has already issued a clarification, stating that the actor had signed a contract to serve as a brand ambassador for a company that operated skill-based games. According to the statement, his endorsement was only in regions where such games have legal permit. His endorsement was strictly confined to regions and territories where online skill-based games are legally permitted, the statement read. Prakash Raj also addressed the matter through a video posted on his X (formerly Twitter) handle. He admitted that he had worked on an advertisement for a gaming app back in 2016 but stopped after realising it did not feel right to him, even if it was technically legal. Within a few months, my conscience told me it wasnt right. I finished my one-year contract but refused to renew it, he said. The controversy stems from a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Telangana police against 25 celebrities and influencers. The complaint, filed at the Miyapur Police Station in Hyderabad by 32-year-old businessman PM Phanindra Sarma, accuses the individuals of promoting illegal betting and gambling apps on their social media platforms. These apps have faced growing scrutiny in recent years over their alleged role in encouraging gambling under the guise of online games. While some platforms operate legally in certain states, others run in areas where such activities face ban, raising questions about celebrity endorsements and their responsibility in influencing audiences. The EDs investigation reportedly focuses on tracking money flow between the app companies and celebrities, determining whether funds routed through illegal channels. As of now, there are no arrests, and the celebrities involved have maintained that their contracts were for skill-based games in permitted territories. At least 50 people, most of them pilgrims, including women and children, are feared killed and more than 150 injured on Thursday when two cloudbursts hit the Chosoti village of Paddar in the Kishtwar district. About 30 bodies have been recovered so far, officials said. Several people are still missing and many are buried under the debris. A massive search operation by the Army, NDRF, J&K Police, CRPF and SDRF is on to locate the missing persons. The figure of fatalities is likely to further increase. Two security forces personnel on the Machail Mata Yatra duty were also among those killed. About 100 injured people, including 62 women, have been shifted to various hospitals in the area. Advertisement Many devotees of Machail Mata having breakfast in a community kitchen were reportedly washed away in the flash flood caused due to cloudburst, reports said. The Machail Mata Yatra began on 25 July and will conclude on 5 September. The yatra has been suspended due to the tragedy. Advertisement The Kishtwar police has asked families and relatives of missing persons to report to the control room. Help desks have been established by the police at many places. Rescue work was affected by another cloudburst about 5 kms before the Chosoti village washed away the road. Several residential houses, shops and vehicles were badly damaged. Troops of the White Knight Corps of the Indian Army were engaged in the rescue operations. Two NDRF teams were also rushed to the spot. Efforts are centred on safeguarding lives and aiding survivors. Search for missing people continues. Relief stores, medical teams & rescue gear rushed to site, said the Indian Army. Looking at the large extent of losses, the district administration has summoned ambulances from the neighbouring districts to carry the injured to hospitals. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the incident. He wrote on X, My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 14, 2025 Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is monitoring the situation, wrote on X, Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need. Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Amit Shah (@AmitShah) August 14, 2025 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also expressed grief over the tragedy. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of the injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also extended condolences to the bereaved families. He wrote on X; I just spoke to the Union Home Minister @AmitShah Sb to brief him about the developing situation in Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations. Im not going to be speaking to channels or news agencies. The government will share information as & when possible. He cancelled his At Home after Independence Day parade tomorrow in view of the tragedy in Kishtwar. Expressing grief over the mishap, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of the injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also extended condolences to the bereaved families. He wrote on X; I just spoke to the Union Home Minister @AmitShah Sb to brief him about the developing situation in Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations. Im not going to be speaking to channels or news agencies. The government will share information as & when possible. He cancelled his At Home after Independence Day parade tomorrow in view of the tragedy in Kishtwar. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, in whose parliamentary constituency the affected area falls, wrote on X; Massive cloudburst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty. Administration has immediately swung into action, and the rescue team has left for the site. Damage evaluation and necessary rescue and medical management arrangements being made, he said. The Minister will visit the spot on Friday if the weather permits. #Kishtwar Update: Just now recieved a call from LoP J&K and local MLA Sh Sunil Kumar Sharma. Also spoke to CM Sh @OmarAbdullah. The additional rescue teams are finding it difficult to reach the site of the cloud burst, yet they are trying despite all the constraints. Road Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) August 14, 2025 #WATCH | Kishtwar flash flood | J&K Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary says, This is a major incident of cloudburstWe were making preparations for the Independence Day celebration tomorrowbut this mishap occurred amid those preparationsThere has been a huge loss and as far pic.twitter.com/WZQFukjB9V ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 Ruling National Conference president Farooq Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti have also expressed grief over the loss of lives. Meanwhile, Multiple cloudbursts and flash floods in different parts of Ladakh, including the villages housing the major Buddhist monasteries Lamayuru and Bodhkharbu have caused extensive damage to roads, private property and other infrastructure. No loss of life has so far been reported. Several tourists were stranded as the roads were badly damaged. The Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army has rescued 21 stranded tourists, including women, at Lamayuru and provided necessary assistance at the nearest Army Ammunition Unit. Timely provision of shelter, food and medical care has been commended by the tourists. Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta has expressed concern over these incidents of cloudbursts. He wrote on X; Deeply concerned over incidents of cloudbursts at Bodhkharbu, Hinaskote and Lamayuru & flash floods in various parts of Ladakh, causing damage to infrastructure, irrigation channels & crops. No loss of human life, livestock or homes reported. Commend the swift response of district officials in restoring connectivity, particularly the Khows link road by 2 AM, using heavy machinery, and ensuring essential services. Administration is on high alert & relief measures are underway. The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Election Commission of India to publish the names of 65 lakh voters excluded from the draft electoral roll, including reasons behind their exclusion. The apex court also allowed voters whose names have been deleted from the draft voter list to submit their claims with Aadhaar card. Advertisement Hearing a batch of petitions challenging the Special Intensive Revision exercise in Bihar, the top court said, A list of approximately 65 lakh voters whose names appear in the voter list of 2025 but are not included in the draft list shall be displayed on the website of every district electoral officer (district-wise). Advertisement The court said that the ECI will also ensure voters are made aware of the reasons behind the exclusion. The commission has also been directed by the court to list it in newspapers and broadcast it on Doordarshan and radio channels. District electoral officers, who have a social media presence, shall also display public notice on there as well. In the public notice, it shall also be expressly mentioned that the aggrieved persons may submit their claims along with a copy of their Aadhaar cards. In addition, booth-wise lists of 65 lakh voters (approx.) shall also be displayed on notice boards by each booth-level officer in panchayat officesto enable the public to have access to these lists, with reasons, the court said. Earlier in the day, the Election Commission of India told the court that it is operating under an atmosphere of sharp political hostility and there is hardly any decision that is not contested. The commission stated that it is caught up in the struggle between political parties. Today, ECI operates in an atmosphere of sharp political (hostility). Hardly any matter where theres no sharp contest, coming back to the legal points, we have seen repeated challenges to EVM. Your lordships have upheld the powers of the Commission. Prayer sought for returning to paper ballots was rejected. This hue and cry that egregiously wrong steps are being taken by the Commissionwe are caught up between a struggle between political parties, senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, appearing for the poll panel, said. Taking a jibe at the Opposition, Dwivedi said if they lose in one state, they start questioning the EVM. Im not concerned with their perception, but with legality. About perception, we cant do anything. Political parties will have their own necessities to project a perception to win an election, the ECI counsel said. Taking strong exception to the petitioners argument that Bihar is not so advanced in digital literacy, the ECI said, Indias first president was from Bihar, and the state has been a land of enlightenment. To this, the bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi agreed. It is the birthplace of democracy also, Justice Bagchi said. India on Thursday hit out at Pakistan leadership over a series of repeated war-mongering statements against New Delhi, warning that any misadventure would have painful consequences. The sharp reaction from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) came in response to a question on a reported nuclear threat made by Pakistans Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during his recent visit to the United States. Advertisement Munir had threatened India with a warning that Islamabad would plunge the region into nuclear war and could take almost half of the world down if faced with an existential threat in a future conflict with New Delhi. Advertisement Sharply reacting to the remarks made by Munir, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing his weekly media briefing, said, We have seen several statements. We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures. Pakistan would be well-advised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences, as was demonstrated recently, said Jaiswal in response to a question on the recent controversial remarks made by Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir. The MEA was responding to Munirs remark during his recent visit to the United States, warning that Pakistan will never allow India to choke the Indus River and will defend its water rights at all costs even if its forces will have to destroy any dam that India sought to build on it. 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, he was quoted as saying by leading Pakistani daily Dawn at an event organised by members of the Pakistani-American community in Tampa, Florida, last week. India, having already made it clear that it will not give in to nuclear blackmail, had reacted strongly to the comments made by Munir. On Monday, Jaiswal said, Our attention has been drawn to the 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. In the statement, the MEA also lamented that these remarks were made in a friendly third nation. 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 continue to take all steps necessary to safeguard our national security, the MEA statement mentioned. Earlier in April, India had hit out at the Pakistani Army Chief for referring Kashmir as Islamabads jugular vein. See, how can anything foreign be their jugular vein? This is a Union Territory of India. Its only relationship with Pakistan is the vacation of illegally-occupied territories by that country, said Jaiswal during a regular media briefing on April 17. Ahead of embarking on the proposed Voter Adhikar Yatra in Bihar, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi urged the youth of the state to join him in the fight against alleged vote theft and irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls to ensure one person, one vote and to protect democracy. In a video message on X, he said: We need the youth of Bihar in this battle. All young people should join us to safeguard the Constitution. Advertisement The Congress leader is scheduled to embark on the state-wide yatra on 17 August from Sasaram. For about a fortnight, he will travel across the state, including Gaya, Munger, Katihar, Purnia, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Champaran and Arrah, addressing rallies during the day and spending nights in the field connecting with local people. Advertisement Rahul Gandhi will be joined by top leaders of the INDIA bloc including RJDs Tejashwi Yadav. The joint campaign is also aimed at energising the alliance leaders and workers on the ground, setting the stage for the polls due in October-November. The Yatra will conclude with a mega rally of the Opposition parties at Patnas historic Gandhi Maidan on 1 September. Bihar Congress President Rajesh Ram has directed Congress leaders and workers to make the upcoming yatra a big massive success. He said the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar has mostly affected the SC, ST, EBC and OBC communities. He emphasised that it is everyones responsibility to safeguard the idea of social justice and ensure that the voting rights of the eligible voters are not taken away. Everyone must be ready to fight in every possible way to protect these rights. We must ensure that not a single vote is stolen in Bihar and that a government of the people, for the people is formed. To achieve this, we must fight back, oppose voter fraud happening under the guise of special voter inspection, and protect democracy. Bihar Congress in-charge Krishna Allavaru said Rahul Gandhis Yatra is aimed at protecting justice, equality, democracy, and strengthening public dialogue. He called on party workers to devote themselves with full energy, dedication, and discipline to make the Yatra historic. He further said that Rahul Gandhis Yatra is not just a political programme, but an effort to connect with the soul of the nation. He highlighted that Bihar has always been a guiding force for peoples movements and will play a leading role this time as well. In a bid to protect the democratic system and ensure the rights of voters, the Mahagathbandhan leaders, including Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, will embark on the Voter Adhikar Yatra across Bihar. The yatra aims to raise awareness about the importance of voting rights and to counter those who have allegedly conspired to steal votes and undermine the democratic system. On August 17, we set out for the #VoterAdhikarYatra in Bihar, a direct fight to end Vote Chori once and for all. This is not just about elections. It is about defending our democracy, our Constitution, and the core principle of One Person, One Vote. We will not stop until every voter list in the country is clean and fair. Young people, workers, farmers, and every citizen this is your call to rise and join a movement that belongs to all of us. This time, the Vote Chors lose. The people win. The Constitution wins. Advertisement The yatra will kick off with a mega launch rally in Sasaram on August 17 and will conclude with a Mega Voter Adhikar Rally in Patna on September 1. Advertisement The yatra will traverse through several districts in Bihar, including Gaya, Munger, Bhagalpur, Katihar, Purnia, Madhubani, Darbhanga, Pashchim Champaran, and will end in Arrah on August 30. The rally assumes significance ahead of the upcoming assembly polls in the state. The opposition claims that the Special Intensive Revision(SIR) drive is being used selectively and disproportionately, targeting vulnerable sections of society, and potentially leading to large-scale voter list deletions. The yatra aims to send a clear message to those who have allegedly worked to undermine the democratic system and to ensure that power stays with the ordinary people. The leaders are expected to emphasise the importance of protecting the Constitution and democracy, and to urge people to exercise their voting rights to bring about change. To save our vote, our Constitution, our democracy Those who have conspired to steal our vote and destroy our hard-fought democratic system will be punished by the people, said Congress leader KC Venugopal, highlighting the importance of the yatra. Both Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav are expected to address rallies and public meetings during the yatra, emphasising the need to protect democracy and voting. The Voter Adhikar Yatra is seen as a significant effort to mobilise people and raise awareness about the importance of voting rights and democracy. The yatra is expected to draw large crowds and generate widespread support for the Mahagathbandhans cause. A man died after being crushed by a tree that fell during heavy rainfall near South Delhis Nehru Place Metro station, said the police, reported news agency UNI on Thursday. According to UNI, a tree collapsed onto several vehicles during heavy rain in the capital, causing chaos. Tragically, it struck a biker and his daughter riding pillion, on their way home. Advertisement The biker was crushed to death under the fallen tree. Police told UNI that both were rushed to the hospital, where the daughter was being treated. Advertisement Heavy showers lashed Delhi and the NCR including Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad early Thursday, offering respite from the heat but also causing widespread waterlogging and traffic snarls in low-lying areas. Intense downpours were recorded in Lajpat Nagar, RK Puram, Lodhi Road, and along the Delhi-Haryana border, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to upgrade its alert from yellow to red for the day. Rainfall is expected to persist in the capital till August 17, according to weather office sources. Outer Ring Road near Subroto Park and Basai Road in Gurugram were among the worst hit, with vehicles crawling through flooded stretches. Moderate showers were reported from India Gate, Kartavya Path, Punjabi Bagh, Vasant Vihar, and parts of Noida, while heavy clouds kept the skies overcast across the region. The Meghalaya government has urged the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to persuade Bangladesh to allow fencing to be constructed closer to the zero line of the international border, in a bid to protect vulnerable villages along a 40-km unfenced stretch. Under current Indo-Bangladesh border management norms, fencing is erected 150 yards inside Indian territory to comply with bilateral agreements. Advertisement However, this standard placement often leaves villages and farmland stranded outside the fence, creating a no mans land where residents remain exposed to cross-border crime, infiltration, and smuggling. Advertisement Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Prestone Tynsong said that the state wants this rule relaxed for specific high-risk areas. The renewed push follows a recent incident in Rongdangai village in West Jaintia Hills, where six members of an armed gangallegedly led by a Bangladeshi police constablecrossed the border, assaulted a shopkeeper, and looted cash and valuables. One of the gang members allegedly hurled explosives before fleeing back into Bangladesh. Authorities have since instructed all deputy commissioners and superintendents of police to tighten vigil from East Jaintia Hills to Dalu in Garo Hills. Joint operations by the Border Security Force (BSF), Meghalaya Police, and Village Defence Parties (VDPs) are underway to intercept infiltration routes and track down any remaining gang members on Indian soil. While Meghalayas 443-km-long border with Bangladesh is mostly fenced, several segments remain open due to difficult terrain, local objections, or the presence of settlements close to the boundary. These gaps have historically been exploited for illegal migration, cattle smuggling, and narcotics trafficking. Their intention is very clearto rob, he said, adding that security forces remain on high alert under a BSF operation alert framework, With close coordination, we will be able to overcome these challenges, he said. The state has submitted a detailed incident report to the MHA, which is expected to be part of the case for closer fencing. By Alexander Hubner MUNICH (Reuters) -Financial investor General Atlantic has tendered its 2.4% stake in German media group ProSiebenSat.1 to Czech investment company PPF, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday. By taking PPF's cash offer of 7 euros ($8.17) per share for ProSieben, General Atlantic is going against the endorsement of ProSieben's management for a higher rival offer by MFE-MediaForEurope , which would be partly paid in MFE shares, indicating that MFE faces some difficulties in its bid for control over ProSieben. General Atlantic, PPF, MFE and ProSieben all declined to comment. ProSieben last week recommended that shareholders accept MFE's latest public takeover offer, abandoning its resistance to the Italian group, which is controlled by the Berlusconi family. ProSieben said at the time that MFE's sweetened offer, which values the company at more about 1.8 billion euros, showed a continued commitment from the Italians and could deliver 150 million euros in annual savings. PPF previously said it would not raise its offer in response to MFE's sweetened bid. MFE's pursuit of ProSieben is part of plans to create a European television company to challenge U.S. streaming giants such as Netflix and Amazon Prime. MFE's per-share bid is comprised of 4.48 euros in cash and 1.3 of its own shares, giving an implied value of around 8 euros per ProSieben share, based on Tuesday's close. PPF, the second-biggest investor in ProSieben, has stated it aims to double its ProSieben stake to 29.99% with its all-cash bid. The acceptance periods for both PPF's and MFE's offer end on Wednesday. ($1 = 0.8567 euros) (Reporting by Alexander Huebner in Munich;Writing by Ludwig Burger; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise and Leslie Adler) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that with Operation Sindoor, the Armed Forces not only avenged the barbaric terrorist attack in Pahalgam, but also the attacks on Parliament House, the Taj in Mumbai, and Amarnath pilgrims in the past. In his Sandesh to Soldiers on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, Singh said that the operation was a balanced military response amidst the asymmetric warfare being witnessed across the globe. Advertisement Dubbing Indias actions during the operation as a shining example of precise and successful military strategy, and a glimpse of a new vision, technological advancements and self-reliance, the Defence Minister said that India successfully utilised cutting-edge apparatus such as drone war, layered air defence, electronic warfare and network-centric operation, and proved that India is no longer dependent on foreign technology. Advertisement Speaking about the Pahalgam attack, Singh said, It was not just an attack, but a direct blow to our courage, unity, and integrity. We gave a befitting reply to that cowardly attack through Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev. It was a clear message from India that we are tolerant, but when it comes to the safety of our people and the dignity of our country, we unite and face every challenge boldly. Operation Sindoor is part of Indias new policy, a clear message that no matter how deep the roots of terrorism, its complete destruction will be ensured. This operation will continue until the goal of the complete destruction of terrorism is achieved, he said. Emphasising that Operation Sindoor was brilliantly executed, Singh said that within a few minutes, nine terror training camps, including the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, were destroyed by precise missile attacks, and no civilian areas and Pakistani military establishments were targeted. The Indian Armed Forces neither crossed the Line of Control nor violated the international border, yet managed to give a crushing blow to the terror infrastructure hidden within the enemys territory, he said. He also commended the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police for neutralising three terrorists all A category commanders of Lashkar-e-Taiba involved in the Pahalgam attack during Operation Mahadev in Dachigam, J&K, last month. He further stated that India is carrying out 65 percent of the manufacturing on its own soil, and only 35 percent is being imported, compared to the time when 65-70 percent of defence equipment was imported to meet the security needs. Singh added that annual defence production, which was around Rs 46,000 crore in FY 2014-15, has touched a record figure of Rs 1.51 lakh crore, while defence exports, which were around Rs 1,900 crore, have surged to an all-time high of Rs 23,622 crore. We have set a defence production target of Rs 3 lakh crore and defence export target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029, he said. Speaking about the modernisation of the Armed Forces, the Defence Minister stated that platforms like INS Arihant, INS Surat, INS Nilgiri, INS Vagsheer, Rafale-Marine, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, C-295 Transport Aircraft, Prachand helicopters, and upgraded Su-30 will enhance the defence preparedness of the country. He also spoke about the involvement of the Armed Forces in relief and rescue operations during natural disasters. Be it the floods in Assam, cyclones in coastal areas, or the recent unfortunate disaster in Uttarkashi, our forces have proved time and again that the safety of our people is of paramount importance. Their courage and quick decision-making were demonstrated during the Iran-Israel conflict when, as part of Operation Sindhu, they evacuated hundreds of Indian citizens in extremely risky conditions and brought them home, he said. The Defence Minister also spoke about the growing role of women in the Armed Forces. For the first time, 17 women cadets successfully passed out from NDA, Khadakwasla. It was a historic moment for the country. He also mentioned Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa, the Indian Navy women officers who undertook Navika Sagar Parikrama-II. The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepas bail in the Renukaswamy murder case and ordered police to take him into custody. The High Court had granted bail to Darshan and co-accused Pradoosh Rao, Jagadish alias Jaggu, Anu Kumar, Lakshman M, and Nagaraju K on December 13, 2024, after they were arrested for Renukaswamys murder. Advertisement Hearing the matter, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan slammed the Karnataka High Court for granting bail to the actor, terming the order a mechanical exercise of power. Advertisement We considered the grant of bail as well as cancellation, and it is evident that the high court order reflects a mechanical exercise of power. The grant of bail will impact the trial, and the witnesses can be influenced, said Justice Mahadevan. Justice Pardiwala praised Justice Mahadevan for the order cancelling the actors bail. Justice Mahadevan has pronounced a very erudite judgment. It is ineffable. It conveys a message that, however big the accused may be, he or she is not above the law, Justice Pardiwala said. Sharing details of the courts order, Advocate DL Chidananda, representing the Karnataka government in the case, said, The Supreme Court said that the High Court has not followed the principles of law that apply for granting bail. It also reiterated that the rule of law prevails in the country, and howsoever influential an individual may be, they must be treated in accordance with the law. The court also warned jail authorities of strict action if they are found providing special privileges to the accused actor. Actor arrested hours after SC order Hours after top court set aside Karnataka High Court order, cancelling the actors bail, he was arrested by the Bengaluru police from his wifes residence in Bengalurus Hosakerehalli. Earlier in June last year, Darshan and his co-star and friend, Pavithra Gowda, were arrested for their alleged involvement in the murder of Renukaswamy, a die-hard fan of the actor. Renukaswamy, 33, an autorickshaw driver, was allegedly kidnapped from Chitradurga district on June 8 after reportedly sending derogatory messages to Gowda, which infuriated Darshan, according to police. His body was later found near Sumanahalli Bridge in Bengaluru. An autopsy revealed Renukaswamy was brutally attacked and died due to shock and hemorrhage as a result of multiple blunt injuries sustained. The post-mortem report also indicated Renukaswamy was kicked and suffered a ruptured testicle. He was also given electric shocks before his death, it said. Samajwadi Party rebel MLA Puja Pal has been expelled from the party on charges of anti-party activities and indiscipline on Thursday. SP president Akhilesh Yadav took the action on Puja Pal after she thanked Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath for fulfilling her dream to eliminate the killers of her husband Raju Pal.Raju Pal was killed by Atiq Ahmed and his brother during the 24-hour-long discussion in the state assembly on Wednesday late night. Advertisement SP president Akhilesh Yadav took action against Puja Pal after she thanked Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for fulfilling her dream of eliminating the killers of her husband, Raju Pal. Advertisement Raju Pal was murdered by Atiq Ahmed and his brother. The remarks came during a 24-hour-long discussion in the state assembly late on Wednesday night. Akhilesh Yadav, in the letter sent to Puja Pal today, said that she has been expelled from the party and has been removed from all posts. Now she will not be able to participate in any program of SP, he further said. Earlier, Puja Pal had openly supported the BJP during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and even cross-voted in the Rajya Sabha elections. Last night, SP faced major embarrassment in the state assembly when party MLA Puja Pal praised CM Yogi Adityanath on the issue of law and order. Puja had said that she too got justice due to the zero tolerance policy towards crime. The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on a prayer seeking an interim stay on its August 11 directive to civic authorities in Delhi-NCR to remove the stray dogs from all localities and put them in shelters within eight weeks. After public outrage over the order, the Chief Justice of India referred the matter to a larger bench. Advertisement During the hearing, the Supreme Court asked local authorities about their stand on the implementation of Animal Birth Control rules. Advertisement The court observed that the whole problem is because of inaction by authorities in implementing the rules. Rules and laws are framed by Parliament, but they are not followed. Local authorities are not doing what they should be doing, the apex court said. On the one hand, humans are suffering, and on the other hand, animals are suffering, and animal lovers are here, the court stated. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for an NGO, raised the question over shelter homes for dogs. The question is, has the Municipal corporation built shelter homes for dogs? Have the dogs been sterilised? Now, the dogs are being picked up. However, the order states that once sterilised, the stray dogs should not be left out in the community, Sibal argued, seeking a stay on the August 11 order of the two-judge bench. Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi also opposed the August 11 order, which asked authorities to put stray dogs in shelter homes, saying dog bites exist, but there is zero rabies death in Delhi this year. Of course, dog bites are bad, but you cannot create a horror situation like this, he added. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta apprised the court that 37 lakhs dog bites were reported in the country in 2024. He further told the court that rabies deaths were 305 deaths for the same year and the World Health Organisations modelling shows much higher number. The Solicitor General said that children are unable to go out to play in open and urged the court to find a solution. A vocal minority view as against the silent suffering majority view, Mehta said, adding, Nobody is an animal hater. After hearing arguments from both the sides, the court reserved it order. With Independence Day and Janmashtami set to illuminate the state on consecutive days, Uttar Pradesh has implemented an extensive security plan, transforming religious hubs and high-sensitivity areas into fortified zones. Armed patrols are on constant rounds, senior officers are directly supervising operations, and every location is under close watch to ensure the twin celebrations proceed without disruption. Advertisement Officials said meetings have been held with temple committees, procession organisers, and fair managers. Police deployment, flag marches, and foot patrols have been stepped up under the supervision of senior officers. Advertisement A day earlier, the state government had issued directives to maintain heightened vigilance across UP during the Independence Day events and the subsequent Janmashtami festivities. Director General of Police Rajeev Krishna has instructed district and commissionerate police chiefs to prepare a comprehensive list of major programmes, including flag marches, Tiranga rallies, and cultural events, and plan security and traffic arrangements accordingly. Security measures have been reinforced at railway and metro stations, bus terminals, airports, cinema halls, shopping malls, hotels, guest houses, religious sites, and other crowded locations. Continuous checks at state and district borders, CCTV monitoring, and strict briefings for checkpoint personnel have been prioritised. Authorities have also ordered close surveillance of microlight aircraft, drones, paragliders, and other unmanned aerial vehicles, alongside a complete ban on unauthorised flights. Local intelligence units and social media monitoring cells have been activated to track the activities of banned or extremist groups, with instructions for immediate preventive action when required. District police forces have been tasked with verifying tenants in residential colonies, preventing the trafficking of illegal arms and explosives, and coordinating with civil magistrates, municipal bodies, and utility departments to ensure the smooth conduct of Janmashtami events. Videography and drone monitoring of processions have been made mandatory, while bomb disposal squads and sniffer dogs will be deployed wherever necessary. Union minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday hit out at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his vote theft charges against the Election Commission, accusing the Gandhi scion of not respecting the Constitution. Rijijus remarks come after the Supreme Courts comment on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar which justified the poll panels revision of electoral rolls and acknowledged that Aadhaar cards are not conclusive proof of citizenship. Advertisement Talking to reporters, Rijiju expressed skepticism about Gandhis claims, stating, I do not have any medicine that will help Rahul Gandhi improve. He should come to his senses after the Supreme Courts comment. Advertisement The minister also urged other Congress leaders to guide Gandhi, saying, There are some smart people in Congress, too, not all of them are like Rahul Gandhi. They should come together and give some wisdom to Rahul. The development is part of an ongoing row between the Congress and the Election Commission of India (ECI), with Gandhi alleging vote theft and other irregularities in the Bihar SIR exercise. Rijiju also dismissed Gandhis actions as drama, emphasizing that the ECs work is to remove the names of dead people and add new voters to the electoral rolls. The Supreme Courts recent comments on Gandhis claims have sparked further controversy, with Rijiju hoping that Gandhi will mend his ways after being rebuked by the court for making unsubstantiated claims. The dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between the ruling party and the opposition, with both sides engaging in a war of words over electoral processes and democratic institutions. Independence Day 2025 Rangoli Designs: Every year, 15th August brings with it a wave of patriotism, joy, and a sense of unity that transcends age, background, and region. Independence Day is also about expressing love for our country through creativity. Among the many ways Indians decorate their homes, offices, and public spaces, rangoli art holds a special place. In 2025, rangoli designs for Independence Day are taking on fresh themes that blend tradition with contemporary artistry, allowing people to honor Indias freedom while showcasing their own personal flair. Advertisement Heres your complete guide to creating rangolis that capture the essence of the tricolour. Advertisement Why rangoli for Independence Day? Rangoli, a traditional art form made with coloured powders, flowers, or even eco-friendly materials, has been a part of Indian celebrations for centuries. On Independence Day, this art transforms into a canvas of patriotism, with motifs inspired by the national flag, Ashoka Chakra, and iconic monuments like the India Gate and Red Fort. Trending rangoli designs for 2025 Independence Day rangoli designs in 2025 are a blend of classic patriotism and modern design trends. Here are some of the most popular themes this year: 1. Minimalist tricolour patterns: Using just three bold sections of saffron, white, and green with a neatly drawn Ashoka Chakra in the center, this design is easy to make yet striking. Perfect for small spaces and apartment entrances. 2. Floral freedom: Marigold petals for saffron, jasmine or white chrysanthemums for the central stripe, and green leaves for the bottom section; just try it! 3. Heritage and history: Detailed rangolis featuring the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, or India Gate alongside the national flag. This style takes more time but becomes a true showstopper at community events. 4. Childrens art inspired: Rangolis with handprints, footprints, or doodle-like patterns in the tricolour palette. This playful approach is perfect for school functions and family-friendly gatherings. 5. Digital era designs: Geometric patterns inspired by pixel art or QR code-like symmetry, but coloured in saffron, white, and green; arent you already hooked? Here are some rangoli designs that you can take inspiration from, and thank the creators, of course! View this post on Instagram A post shared by prity Rangoli Craft (@prityrangolicraft) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rangoli by Jyoti Rathod (@rangolibyjyotirathod) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pushpa Chavan (@rangoli_art3310) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shikhas Creation Rangoli & Art (@shikha_creation17) View this post on Instagram A post shared by @pranjali repale (@pranjals_art96) In cities and towns across India, Independence Day rangoli competitions have become a beloved tradition. Schools encourage children to learn about freedom fighters through art, while local housing societies host contests where residents of all ages participate. In 2025, many events are also going hybrid, people are sharing their rangoli photos on social media, connecting artists across the nation. Whether you choose a simple tricolour pattern, a grand historical scene, or a modern abstract piece, your rangoli can be a beacon of pride on this special day. So gather your colours, pick your theme, and let your creativity bloom in saffron, white, and green. In a sharp turn from the rhetoric of outright bans, Washington has brokered a deal allowing two of its leading semiconductor firms to resume sales of customised AI chips to China ~ on the condition that 15 per cent of the resulting revenue flows directly to the US government. These are not the flagship chips once deemed too advanced to cross the Pacific, but specially tailored, less powerful versions built to meet previous export restrictions. On paper, the arrangement offers a neat compromise: American firms reclaim access to one of their most important markets, China gains the technology it wants, and Washington collects a significant cut ~ potentially up to $2 billion ~ while keeping the most cutting-edge chips out of Beijings reach. Yet the deals novelty lies less in its economic arithmetic and more in the political precedent it sets. Advertisement The US has long restricted high-tech exports to strategic rivals in the name of national security. This approach was meant to slow potential adversaries technological gains, especially in fields like artificial intelligence that can blur the lines between civilian and military use. The reversal suggests that commercial interests and geopolitical bargaining have taken priority over the earlier security calculus. If the same chips were once considered a threat, what has changed other than the prospect of revenue? Advertisement For investors and industry, the uncertainty is as troubling as the restrictions themselves. Semiconductor companies plan years ahead, betting billions on product development and fabrication. Sudden political pivots ~ first a ban, then a negotiated levy ~ inject volatility into forecasts. Shareholders may welcome renewed Chinese sales, but they must also reckon with the possibility that political winds could again shift abruptly. For policymakers, the move signals willingness to monetise rather than simply restrict technology flows to rivals. This raises larger questions: Will other sectors, from electric vehicles to consumer electronics, now face similar market access tolls when dealing with China? Could this become an informal tax on strategic trade, negotiated case by case? And if so, does it strengthen US leverage, or dilute the coherence of its national security stance? China, meanwhile, benefits from restored supply at a time when its AI ambitions are expanding rapidly. For Washington, the deal may also serve as a bargaining chip in unrelated areas such as rare-earth minerals, where Beijing holds a near-monopoly. This transactional flexibility may yield short-term wins, but it risks projecting an image of policy driven by opportunism rather than principle. The chip agreement is not simply a trade story. It is a marker of how the tech rivalry between the worlds two largest economies is evolving. What began as a straightforward contest to block or protect strategic technologies is morphing into a complex negotiation where security concerns, market access, and government revenue share the same table. In this new phase, the lines between protection, profit, and policy are becoming harder to tell apart. 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 militarys 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 Islamabads control. Advertisement 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 Balochistans 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. Advertisement 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 BLAs 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 Todays action taken by the Department of State demonstrates the Trump Administrations 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. Public hospitals in Sindh, especially in Karachi, are facing a severe crisis marked by significant shortages of beds, ventilators, and medical personnel. This situation places both residents and patients arriving from different parts of the province in critical conditions, according to a report from The Express Tribune (TBT). The major hospitals in the city have a total of only 6,500 beds and 250 ventilators, along with a continuous lack of doctors and medical staff, leaving them poorly equipped to manage even the current local patient volume. A resident shared her struggle to arrange gallbladder surgery for her husband at Jinnah Hospital. I worked tirelessly for two weeks trying to get a bed for my husband, but without success. Patients from disadvantaged backgrounds endure long waits for admission at government hospitals, which causes them significant difficulties in receiving treatment, she was quoted as saying in the TBT report. Former Director of Health Karachi Ikram Sultan explained that the crisis stems from insufficient facilities in district hospitals throughout interior Sindh, compelling patients to travel to Karachi. Jinnah Hospital sees a high influx of patients not only from Karachi but also from surrounding cities. The number of beds has remained stagnant for decades, and theres a critical shortage of staff in these hospitals. The government must ensure the hiring of specialists in district hospitals and offer secondary care services there. Only then can the strain on Jinnah and Civil Hospital lessen, he stated. Around 60% of the beds in Karachis district hospitals are currently filled. While these hospitals provide basic healthcare services, they lack paramedical and nursing staff, as well as specialists like anesthesiologists, nephrologists, and pulmonologists. This shortage forces more patients towards the citys tertiary care facilities, according to the TBT report. Advertisement The influx of patients at major hospitals is overwhelming. Civil Hospital accommodates approximately 2,000 patients daily in its accident department, while 8,000 visit the outpatient department for evaluation. It admits around 200 patients each day. Head of the hospital Khalid Bukhari noted an unprecedented surge in patients from Sindh and Balochistan, stating that local patients sometimes wait one to two months before receiving treatment. Advertisement Jinnah Hospital is under similar strain. Spokesperson Jahangir Durrani mentioned that most ICU units remain inactive due to the unavailability of 50% of staff. ICU technicians are required to operate the equipment. Because of this shortage, patients can only be admitted to five out of the 15 beds available in the chest ICU. Likewise, in the surgical ICU, only eight out of 21 beds are operational, he said, as reported by TBT. At the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Accident and Emergency Trauma Centre, Executive Director Sabir Memon revealed that out of 500 beds, 60 are non-operational. The Sindh Government Liaquatabad Hospital, which operates with 200 beds, features four operating theatres and 16 ventilators, 75% of which are currently in use. However, it lacks a single CT scan machine. Similar shortages also affect Lyari General Hospital, Sindh Government Qatar Hospital, Sindh Government Saudabad Hospital, Sindh Government Korangi Hospital, and Sindh Government New Karachi Hospital, as cited in the TBT report. This story was originally published on HR Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily HR Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: A 2024 U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission discrimination charge constituted an overly broad and vague fishing expedition that should be blocked by a federal judge, the board of education for New Mexicos Gallup-McKinley County Public Schools district alleged in a lawsuit filed Aug. 8. Per the complaint, then-Commissioner Andrea Lucas submitted a charge alleging that the district discriminated on the basis of race in its hiring practices. The district claimed that EEOC refused a request for information about the charges basis, violating its due process rights. It further claimed that EEOCs request for information was so overbroad as to exceed its investigative authority. The plaintiffs also alleged procedural errors on EEOCs part, claiming the agency failed to allow sufficient time for a local fair employment practice agency with jurisdiction over the case the opportunity to process the charge instead of EEOC. The commission did not respond to a request for comment. Dive Insight: The board of education claimed that EEOC violated Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the Administrative Procedure Act and the Fifth Amendment guarantee of due process. A portion of the complaint alleged that EEOCs request that the district produce five years worth of confidential employee and applicant information did not properly consider the privacy interests of affected parties. Noting that the vast majority of the district's students and employees are Native American, the complaint said Lucas had asserted "broad and vague claims without any factual support of systemic discrimination toward Native Americans." If the EEOCs investigation is allowed to proceed, sensitive personal information of employees and applicants may be disclosed to the government despite the governments complete lack of authority to obtain it, the plaintiffs wrote. Each of these individuals and entities will be irreparably harmed. The complaint also noted that EEOC currently lacks a quorum, and the plaintiffs alleged that all actions by the EEOC, thus far, are contrary to law and outside of Defendants authority and outside a quorum of the Commission. EEOC requests for information have been of particular concern this year due to the agencys public commitment to cracking down on diversity, equity and inclusion programs. One attorney previously told HR Dive that employers may want to consider taking a number of steps before responding to an EEOC letter or information request, such as negotiating the scope of such requests and providing a position statement. The stage is set for the highly anticipated summit meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the US Joint Military Base on Friday, August 15. The two global leaders are meeting to discuss ways to end the Russia-Ukraine war even as the outcome of the summit is difficult to predict due to conflicting interests of Moscow and Kyiv. Advertisement Ahead of the meeting, Russia has reiterated that its stance on ending the war in Ukraine has not changed. Advertisement Russias position remains unchanged, and it was voiced in this very hall just over a year ago, on June 14, 2024, Russian Foreign Ministrys deputy spokesperson, Alexei Fadee told reporters on Wednesday. Last year, Putin had set out his conditions to end the war withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson, and abandonment of Ukraines NATO ambitions. Russia currently controls around 20 per cent of Ukrainian territories and Putin wants Ukraine to recognise Crimea, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk and Luhansk as part of the Russian Federation. US President Trump is also said to be open to the idea of a land-for-peace deal. However, Ukraine has said that it will not agree to ceding its territories to Russia and will never recognise Russian occupation of its land. Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskky said hours after Trump announced his summit with Putin. The outcome of meeting between Trump and Putin also holds significance for India as the US President has accused New Delhi of financing Russias war in Ukraine. Trump imposed an additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, saying New Delhi was helping Russia in the war by purchasing its oil. If the two leaders agree to ending war in Ukraine, the US might remove that additional 25 per cent tariffs on Indian imports to the US. United States President Donald Trump said that hecould raise the issue of the alleged Russian hacking of the US federal court filing system during his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska later this week. I guess I could They hack in, thats what they do. They are good at it. We are good at it; we are actually better at it. I have heard about it, Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday (local time). Advertisement His remarks came after reports that investigators have found evidence suggesting Russias involvement in a recent breach of the US federal court document system, which contained highly sensitive records that could reveal sources and individuals charged with national security crimes, The New York Times reported. The disclosure came just days before Trumps scheduled meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday, where he plans to push for an end to the war in Ukraine. While it remains unclear whether Russian intelligence or another country was behind the hack, officials have described it as a years-long effort to infiltrate the system. According to The New York Times, some searches targeted mid-level criminal cases in New York City and other jurisdictions, several involving defendants with Russian and Eastern European surnames. Advertisement 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 memo. The advisory urged immediate removal of the most sensitive documents from the system. This remains an URGENT MATTER that requires immediate action, the memo read, referring to guidance first issued in early 2021 after the system was initially infiltrated. The breach is believed to have exposed documents related to criminal activity with overseas links across at least eight district courts. Last month, chief judges of district courts across the country were quietly told to transfer such cases off the regular system and were initially instructed not to discuss the matter with other judges in their districts. Korea Ocean Business Corp. (KOBC) recently completed the purchase of a $120 million logistics center in Dalton, Georgia, according to a news release. The South Korean state-backed maritime financial firm has created a public-private fund known as the Global Logistics Supply Chain Investment Fund that could reach up to $287 million, and is aimed at snapping up logistics warehouses across Georgia. The goal is to improve supply chain competitiveness for Korean-owned firms selling products in the U.S., KOBC officials said. KOBC made the Dalton acquisition through a partnership with Korean logistics company LX Pantos. We plan to continue investing in new port and logistics infrastructure with LX Pantos Logistics to support our export/import logistics companies entry into overseas markets, Byung-Gil Ahn, CEO of KOBC, said in a statement on March 12. We plan to spare no effort in supporting investments to secure key overseas ports and logistics bases for our companies. The Global Logistics Supply Chain Investment Fund was created in 2018. KOBC said it is pursuing follow-up investment projects in Savannah, as well as a property in Port Klang, Malaysia. The LX Pantos-operated facility in Dalton is expected to serve as a hub logistics supply chain for Korean import and export companies in the U.S. The two-building facility includes 1.2 million-square-feet of warehouse space. Dalton is located about 90 miles from Atlanta. The warehouse is near 140 domestic companies, including leading automotive and battery manufacturers, KOBC officials said. Georgia is a strategic hub for overseas supply chains where many domestic companies have advanced into, and in the future, it can be utilized as a stable logistics supply chain base in the U.S. for Korean exporters and importers, Yoon Sang-ho, head of the marine finance division at KOBC, said in a statement. Furthermore, this logistics center will be designated as an Overseas Joint Logistics Center, strengthening support for overseas expansion by Korean small and medium-sized export and import companies. U.S. goods and services trade with South Korea totaled $239.6 billion in 2024, up 8% year-over-year compared to 2023. For the month of July, South Korea was the eighth largest trade partner of the U.S., totaling $17 billion in two-way commerce. The U.S. primarily exports machinery, mineral fuels, and chemicals from South Korea, while importing cars, electronic goods and industrial machinery. Agriculture is also a key area of trade, with the U.S. exporting agricultural products to South Korea. When the Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi declared the names, Rudra, Bhairav and Divyastra, on Kargil Diwas, it was not a ceremonial reminder of the past achievements. It was a measured message that India's defence posture is becoming a proactive sword as opposed to a reactive shield. There is a tectonic doctrinal shift with each formation: Rudra, the Integrated Battle Group, Bhairav, the Special Forces brigade and Divyastra, the long-range precision strike force. They combined to create the institutionalisation of a war-fighting ethos that India has long theorised on and been reluctant to operationalise. It marks a shift from legacy Cold Start to a more relevant model of Cold Strike. What we are witnessing is the physical manifestation of Indias evolving deterrence doctrine, which has now crystallised as Cold Strike. This is not a derivative of the 'Cold Start' doctrine of the 2000s. Cold Strike is a bold departure. It is Indias preemptive, multi-domain deterrence philosophy, shaped by real-time intelligence, information dominance, and strategic orchestration. It thrives not on brute invasion but on cognitive disruption, precise degradation, and narrative control. It is war as deterrence, not destruction; assertion, not adventurism. For nearly two decades, the Cold Start Doctrine remained a paper deterrent; conceptually sound, politically constrained, and operationally untested. It was meant to offer a swift, shallow offensive against Pakistan without crossing nuclear thresholds. But in execution, Cold Start suffered from a civil-military disconnect, doctrinal ambiguities, and mobilisation lags. It lacked both political appetite and real-time capabilities. Operation Sindoor changed that. It proved that India could conduct punitive, multi-domain strikes while keeping escalation under tight control. Sindoor was not just an operation; it was a doctrine in actioncold, calibrated, and cognisant of geopolitical optics. It showcased jointness, speed, and strategic restraintqualities absent in previous crisis responses. It is from the ashes of Cold Start and the learning curve of Sindoor that Cold Strike has emerged. And it is through formations like Rudra, Bhairav, and Divyastra that Cold Strike now takes muscle. Cold Strike is not just a doctrine; it is Indias sharpened sword of calibrated multidomain deterrence, fusing speed, precision, and narrative dominance to seize the initiative, strike pre-emptively, and control escalation across all domains without flinching to nuclear blackmail. Cold Strike: From paper doctrine to battlefield posture Cold Strike is not an upgraded Cold Start; it is a complete reimagining. It does not wait for an act of war; it redefines what constitutes an act of war. It elevates the threat of terror to trigger preemption. Its strategic objective is not territorial gain but operational denial, capability degradation, and information supremacy. What possibly makes Cold Strike uniquely Indian is its calibrated tempo. It could work in 12 to 24-hour combat cycles, enabled by real-time intelligence and precision vectors. The non-kinetic war: the cyber disruption, electronic jamming, and information dominance are unleashed to temporarily blind and destabilise the foe even before the rounds of the first kinetic assault are fired. Invoked kinetic operations are quick and constrained; they are carried out through drones, missiles and manned assaults targeting enemy infrastructure and military assets. But should the adversary escalate, Cold Strike seamlessly transitions to integrated contact warfare. Here, formations like Rudra IBGs enter the fray, not to invade but to punish, dislocate, and deter further escalation. It is a doctrine designed not just to respond to provocation but to seize initiative and terminate conflict on Indias terms. The escalatory matrix could entail non-contact to contact multi-domain escalation with levers of escalation and domination at each ladder and a clear conflict termination profile institutionalised without giving away predictability. Rudra, Bhairav, Divyastra: Embedding doctrine into structure If Cold Strike is the doctrine, then Rudra, Bhairav, and Divyastra are its instruments. Their institutionalisation marks the cutting-edge doctrinal reform in Indias military structure in decades. Conceptually, the traditional structures are being replaced by a tech-infused combat architecture built for dominance, speed and autonomy. At its core are mission-configurable units; agile, multi-domain formations primed for rapid deployment across varied terrains and threats. Autonomous systems are no longer auxiliary; they now define cyber-proof precision engagement through AI-enabled drones and adaptive strike platforms, bringing in the era of precise mass. The command backbone is a zero-lag, secure C5ISR layer that compresses decision-to-execution cycles, creating real-time kill chains. Combat isnt confined to land, sea or air; cyber, space, and electronic warfare have been fused into frontline operations. Strategic independence is powered by sovereign systems, with indigenous platforms tailored for Indias needs, not imported templates. Most critically, the doctrinal mindset is shifting, from reactive and deterrent to predictive and pre-emptive, enabling India to act first proactively, not just respond. Rudra is not a symbolic name; it is a mission-configurable, theatre-specific Integrated Battle Group 2.0, designed for high-tempo, high-precision operations. Drawing on years of doctrinal research and operational feedback, Rudra embodies the principle of pre-emption, dislocation, and disintegration. It is the reconstitution of Indias fighting formations into lean, mobile, and lethal smart integrated combat units, built not for attrition, but for agility, dislocation and dominance with overwhelming mounting and execution tempo. Bhairav serves as the light commando battalion, which is kitted and specialised to be agile and lethal. Bhairav Special Forces units will be ultra-ready to strike across the border, behind enemy lines with surprise and tempo. Besides, every infantry battalion will have a commando platoon and a dedicated drone platoon. Divyastra, the long-range precision strike force, is the deterrent edge. It carries the capability of escalation control through calibrated use of long-range vectors. It is the instrument of strategic punishment that allows India to hold targets at risk deep within hostile territory without crossing into full-spectrum war. Together, these formations institutionalise Cold Strike across all levels of warfaretactical, operational, and strategic. Integrated Battle Group 2.0: Rudra, the backbone of dislocation The transformation toward Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) has been decades in the making, but its real push came in the wake of Operation Parakram and the doctrinal introspections that followed. The old model of monolithic, defensive mindset-oriented formations with sluggish mobilisation timelines is incompatible with future wars. Rudra resolves that gap. These technology-enabled modular formations based on deployability, employability and multidomain capability integration aim to achieve combat overmatch and terrain-specific missions. They represent infantry and armour, artillery and air defence, engineers and drones, and C5ISR into a unified structure. But more importantly, they bring operational autonomy at the lowest viable level. They can be launched within hours, fight independently, and be scaled up as part of larger formations. In the plains, Rudra enables pre-emptive shallow thrusts that can dislocate enemy reserves and force strategic recalibration. In the mountains, they serve as rapid response forces for deterrence, denial, and quid pro quo operations against Chinese salami slicing. Whether on the western front against Pakistan or the northern front against China, Rudra are the theatre-level tools India needs to fight smart with compressed kill chains, greater survivability and operate under a nuclear overhang. The conceptual shift towards Rudra is based on three pillarsmanoeuvre warfare, directive command, and combined arms employment with technology and effect-based operations ingrained. They rely on the quality of leadership, inter-service synergy, battlefield transparency and real-time domination of information. Doctrinal, institutional, and cultural reforms must follow To convert this transformation from concept to combat readiness, several shifts are essential. India politically needs to legalise its new deterrence policy by stating an explicit National Defence Strategy that outlines pre-emption levels, escalation ladders and red lines. Implicit in the argument is the operational construct that under imminent threat, it is legitimate to target assets across the border via precision strikes, making the argument move from strategic ambiguity to strategic assertion. Institutionally, a National War Cabinet must be created for wartime governance, one that can activate strategic, military, and diplomatic levers in sync. Intelligence fusion must be centralised under a National Digital War Grid that integrates space, cyber, UAV, and battlefield data into a live decision-support system. Militarily, the Chief of Defence Staff must drive the creation of functional theatre commandsCyber, Space, Air Defence, and C5ISR. The restructuring of artillery into a Missile-Drone Strike Force, the creation of a Cognitive Warfare Directorate, and the doctrinal elevation of drone warfare as a strategic pillar, not a tactical accessory, are non-negotiable. This transformation also demands a cultural shift. Commanders must be trained not for attritional warfare but for tempo-based proactive offensive manoeuvre warfare. The bottom line must be hope of success and not fear of failure. War is now as much about knowledge as firepower. The keys to victory lie in dislocation- physical, technological, moral, psychological and temporal, and none of this with the loss of restraint or defensive mindset. Also, along with the battlespace geometry, we need to enhance the cognitive geography for narrative dominance. Conclusion: Cold Strike is not just a doctrine, it is Indias posture The era of symbolic deterrence is over. India is now scripting a playbook where wars are deterred not by nuclear ambiguity but by visible capability and credible compellence. Cold Strike is Indias message to its adversaries: the cost of provocation is now high, the response is no longer predictable, and escalation will be managed but not avoided. The institutionalisation of Rudra, Bhairav, and Divyastra is the inflexion point. They are not just new units; they are Indias doctrinal response to a rapidly evolving security environment. They ensure that future conflicts will be fought not on the adversarys terms, but on Indias initiative, timelines, and terms of escalation. India now has a strategic doctrine with bite, formations with muscle, and a mindset that aligns political will with military capability. Cold Strike, backed by integrated battle groups and precision strike forces, is not a theory waiting for a trigger. It is a posture ready for the moment. That moment, when it comes, will no longer catch India unprepared. The Pakistan Independence Day messages of top Pakistani leadership, including military leaders, were filled with grandstanding and digs at India, especially in the context of the recent four-day military stand-off between the two countries. Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardar, in his message, claimed that his country responded with clarity, courage and restraint while dealing with "unjustified Indian aggression" and added that Islamabad does not bow to coercion. But this moment is about more than military success. It is a reminder of what we can achieve when we are united, focused, and committed to a common goal, he was quoted as saying. The month of May saw a rapid and severe military escalation between India and Pakistan, in the wake of Operation Sindoor, launched by India after the Pahalgam terrorist attack to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. ALSO READ: How many nuclear warheads does 'dump truck' Pakistan have? Pakistans historic victory in Marka-i-Haq during the four-day war imposed by India has not only reinforced the sanctity of our freedom, but has also instilled a renewed sense of ambition and national spirit," said Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, and claimed that his country's armed forces "shattered the pride" of India. The military capability, valour and faith of our brave soldiers and air warriors forced the enemy to kneel down," he claimed. Pakistan Naval Academy Commandant Commodore Tassawar Iqbal said Pakistan's freedom of joy has increased manifold "after defeating India "decisively in the battle of truth on May 10. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar claimed that Pakistan delivered a crushing defeat to India in May. The Supreme Court cancelled Kannada actor Darshan's bail in the Renukaswamy murder case on Thursday. The court stated, Whosoever he may be, howsoever high, he is not above the rule of law, while cancelling the bail of Darshan and six others. The state government had filed a plea in the Supreme Court challenging the Karnataka High Court's decision to grant the actor regular bail. A bench of Justices J. B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan observed that the "well-founded allegations, coupled with forensic evidence, reinforce the cancellation of bail" in connection with the torture and murder of a fan. Darshan will now be lodged at Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Prison. Justice Pardiwala reminded the Karnataka government that it would be held accountable if it was found that the influential actor was receiving any special treatment or privileges inside the prison. "We considered everything, the grant of bail as well as cancellation. It is evident that the High Court suffers from serious infirmities; instead, it reflects a mechanical exercise and moreover, the High Court undertook examination at the pre-trial stage... The trial court alone is the appropriate forum. Granting bail without considering the well-founded allegations, coupled with forensic evidence, reinforces the cancellation of bail. We are satisfied to exercise extraordinary jurisdiction. Bail granted to the petitioner CANCELLED," Live Law quoted the Supreme Court bench as saying. It added, "Granting bail in such a serious case without adequately considering the nature and gravity of the offence, the accused's role, and the tangible interference with the trial are a perverse and unwarranted exercise of discretion. The well-founded allegations of witness intimidation, coupled with compelling forensic and circumstantial evidence, further reinforce the cancellation of bail. Consequently, the liberty granted under the impugned order poses a real and imminent threat to the fair administration of justice and risks derailing the trial." What led to the abduction and murder of Renukaswamy? A fan of the actor, Renukaswamy, had sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda for her role in allegedly derailing the actor's family. A furious Gowda wanted Darshan to act, and upon his order, the actor's henchmen identified and abducted Renukaswamy. Raghavendra, one of the accused and part of Darshan's fan club in Chitradurga, brought Renukaswamy to a shed in R. R. Nagar on the pretext that the actor wanted to meet him. In an autorickshaw, Renukaswamy was taken from the outskirts of Chitradurga to a shed in Bengaluru's R. R. Nagar. Once he was told about the abduction, Darshan and Pavithra joined the co-accused at the shed and started assaulting Renukaswamy. Pavithra hit him repeatedly with her footwear, it was found during the probe. Renukaswamy was assaulted for hours and even administered electric shocks to his genitals. He bled profusely as the gang took turns attacking him for hours, the report said. According to the post-mortem report, Renukaswamy died due to shock and haemorrhage as a result of multiple blunt injuries. Actress Minu Muneer, who has accused several Malayalam actors of sexual harassment, was arrested by Tamil Nadu Police on Wednesday night for allegedly trying to traffic a young woman into a sex racket. Muneer was reportedly picked up from Aluva in Ernakulam district for reportedly trying to hand over the girl, who is her relative, to the sex mafia. She was taken to Chennai on Thursday morning, media reports said. According to reports, Minu Muneer convinced the woman that she could help her get into the film industry if she was willing to travel with her to Tamil Nadu. However, her intention was to hand the girl over to a sex mafia. According to the investigation team, the incident took place in 2014, Manorama Online said in a report. After the Hema Committee report stirred up controversy in Kerala, Minu Muneer accused multiple mainstream Malayalam actors, such as Jayasurya, Balachandra Menon, Mukesh, Edavela Babu, and Maniyanpilla Raju, of sexual harassment. Minu Muneer alleged that an actor in the industry had demanded "compromises" in order for her to gain membership in the actors' organisation, AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists). In August 2024, she had claimed that her decision to speak out was influenced by the Kerala government's plea to victims to come forward. Minu claimed that in 2008, during a film shoot in the Secretariat, actor Jayasurya hugged and kissed her from behind and even invited her to his flat. By 2013, she had acted in six movies, and to get a membership in AMMA, an actor only needs to be cast in three films. When she called actor Edavela Babu, then an office-bearer of the organisation, Minu alleged that he invited her to his flat to fill out a form. While filling out the form, he allegedly kissed her on the neck, following which she left the building immediately. She alleged that later, actor Mukesh spoke to her inappropriately over the phone and in person, and even invited her to his villa. She claimed that actor Maniyanpilla Raju misbehaved with her and spoke to her inappropriately while travelling in a vehicle. She went on to add that someone from the actors' association called her up and told her that she would not be given a membership. Following this, she left for Chennai, as she said she was tired of such experiences. The Kamakshipalya Police arrested seven accused, including popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and Pavitra Gowda, in the Renukaswamy murder case on Thursday evening, after the Supreme Court cancelled their bail in the morning. #WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka | Actor Darshan brought to the Police Station following his arrest in connection with Renukaswamy murder case. Besides Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, Lakshman, Pradosh and Nagaraj have been arrested so far in this case. pic.twitter.com/e0ckxPzW8P ANI (@ANI) August 14, 2025 The police team led by DCP Girish swung into action soon after the SC verdict was out. Five accused, Darshan (accused no.2), Pavitra (A1), Nagaraju R., Pradoosh S. Rao and Laksman M. were arrested from Bengaluru, while two others, Jagadish alias Jagga and Anbukumar, were taken into custody from Chitradurga. All seven will be produced before the judge at the judge's residence in Koramangala after the medical examination, late in the evening. The police arrested him from his Bengaluru residence in Hosakerehalli and took him to the Annapurneshwari Nagar police station. Earlier on Thursday, there were reports that said the actor was spotted at the Punajanur check post at the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border in his four-wheeler. Earlier in the day, Pavitra Gowda was taken into custody from her Bengaluru residence. According to sources, the actor wanted to evade arrest and surrender in court, but the police got information about his stay and arrested him. Darshan was arrested on June 11 last year from Mysuru after the police named him as an accused along with 16 others in the chargesheet. He was granted a six-week interim bail on medical grounds on October 30, 2024, after he had spent 131 days in jail. The Supreme Court has now cancelled the regular bail granted to Darshan by the Karnataka High Court on December 13, 2024. The apex court cancelled the bail granted to the actor saying, "We considered everything. The grant of bail as well as cancellation. It is evident that the high court order suffers from serious infirmities, instead it reflects a mechanical exercise and moreover, the high court undertook examination at pre-trial stage." The judgement came on an appeal filed by the Karnataka government against the High Court's December 13, 2024, order of bail to Darshan and the co-accused. "The well-founded allegations, coupled with forensic evidence re-enforce the cancellation of bail, the bail grant to the petitioner cancelled," the bench said. Ambika Shukla, an animal welfare activist and sister of Maneka Gandhi, in a conversation with the media, stated that rabies is a delicate virus that can be washed off using soap. Her statements came in the backdrop of the ongoing protests by animal lovers in the Delhi-NCR region over the recent SC order directing the authorities to relocate the strays from streets to shelters at the earliest. Calling the stray dog menace extremely grim, SC ordered the Delhi government and concerned authorities to start picking up stray dogs and keep them in shelters, warning of strict action against anyone obstructing the drive. Her statements on the rabies virus have drawn mixed reactions from netizens, with many criticising her for spreading wrong facts about the same. How true are her claims? Rabies virus enters the body through the saliva of an infected animal through a bite or a scratch. It is partially true that washing the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 15 minutes can help disinfect the area. But vaccination too is important, as washing alone is not enough, and it just reduces the risk by buying time. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the following are the measures suggested for the category of contact with a suspect rabid animal. Category I- touching or feeding animals, animal licks on intact skin (no exposure) Measure suggested: Washing of exposed skin surfaces Category II: nibbling of uncovered skin, minor scratches or abrasions without bleeding (exposure) Measure suggested: Wound washing and immediate vaccination Category III: single or multiple transdermal bites or scratches, contamination of mucous membrane or broken skin with saliva from animal licks, exposures due to direct contact with bats (severe exposure) Measure suggested: Wound washing, immediate vaccination and administration of rabies immunoglobulin/monoclonal antibodies For more information, visit a healthcare facility or an expert. The Akali politics is witnessing a new twist. For the first time in its 104-year history, a leader from the dalit community has been chosen to head a faction of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD). Giani Harpreet Singh, former acting Jathedar of the Akal Takht and ex-Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib, was unanimously elected president of a rebel faction. The newly elected president has challenged the supremacy of the Akali Dal headed by Sukhbir Singh Badal. Badal became the president of the Akali Dal after completing his religious punishment awarded by the highest temporal body of Sikhs, the Akal Takht. Giani Harpreet Singh hails from Muktsar, the home turf of the Badal family. His elevation is both symbolic and strategic: it sends a message of inclusion to Punjabs dalit Sikh population, which forms a substantial share of the states electorate, while challenging the family monopoly that has dominated the party for over half a century. A dalit leading the Akali Dal also sends a signal to the politically dominant Jat Sikh community. The Akali Dal reacted to Giani Harpreet Singhs elevation by saying that his political ambitions have now come to the fore, which they claim were also the reason he was instrumental in awarding religious punishment to Sukhbir Singh Badal. They further accused him of siding with the Union government. In December last year, the Akal Takht declared Sukhbir Singh Badal and other party leaders tankhaiya (guilty of religious misconduct) for mishandling the 2015 sacrilege incidents. Based on the suggestions of the Akal Takht, a fresh recruitment drive was conducted and Sukhbir was again elected as president. However, this continued to be resented by the rebel leaders, who had been calling for his removal. Giani Harpreet Singh was earlier seen as close to the Badals, but owing to charges of bias in favour of the family, the chasm between them widened. During the punishment being handed to the Badals, Harpreet Singh, along with the new Akal Takht Jathedar, Giani Raghubir Singh, made Badal publicly accept all the mistakes. The real battle for control over Sikh politics will begin with the elections to the SGPC (Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee), which runs all the gurdwaras in the state and beyond. The Badal-led Akali Dal has mostly held control over the SGPC. Whenever polls are held, the rebel faction too may field its candidates in an attempt to take control, and in the process, gain dominance over Sikh politics and claim to be the real Akali Dal. In the past, the Akali Dal has seen many factions, but the Badals managed to establish their control over the state with their moderate politics, which also suited national mainstream parties. Political observers feel that the Akali Dal is already facing its worst phase, so an electoral challenge may not be insurmountable, as the Badals experience could give them an edge. The real churn may come when the rebel Akali Dal announces its political programme, which is expected to adopt a far more hardline approach than the Badal-led Akali Dal. The rebel faction may seek to unite all panthic bodies and bring together a larger confluence of ideas and personalities. For the Badals, this development is a challenge to their political dominance. The assembly polls are due in 2027, when the rebel faction may also field its candidates, potentially leading to a division of Sikh votes. This could be a blessing in disguise for other contenders in the fray AAP, Congress, and the BJP. But, there is also another factor: the Akali Dals alliance with the BJP has always been viewed through the prism of national security, ensuring stability and peace in the border state a partnership that worked well in the past. There are renewed calls for the BJP to re-enter an alliance with the Akali Dal before the 2027 assembly polls, as only then might both parties have a realistic chance. However, the emergence of a new faction may complicate Sikh identity politics in the state. The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Election Commission to publicise the list of 65 lakh voters excluded from the draft electoral roll published after intensive roll revision in Bihar. The top court also asked the Commission to accept Aadhaar as an identity proof. The top court continued hearing matters related to special intensive revision (SIR) of the electoral roll in Bihar on Thursday. A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi observed that the Commission's actions should instil confidence in voters. The bench, hearing the Commission's arguments, directed the poll body to publish the list of excluded voters district-wise, along with reasons for exclusion. "On suggestion by this court, following steps have been agreed to by ECI, as interim measures - list of approx. 65 lakh voters whose names appear in the voter list of 2025 but are not included in the draft list, shall be displayed on the website of every district electoral officer (district-wise). The info will be booth-wise, but it can be accessed by referring to the EPIC no of the voter," the bench ordered. The top court directed that the reasons for exclusion from the list must be given wide publicity by the poll body. Besides daily, Doordharshan and radio, the Court also directed the poll body to publicise the reasons through official social media channels of electoral officers. The top court directed the poll body to comply with the order by Tuesday. The bench will next hear the matter on August 22. After 16 days of exhumation in Dharmasthala by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) yielded no significant evidence (skeletal remains) related to any mass burial as claimed by the complainanta former sanitation workerthe ruling Congress, on Thursday, joined the BJP's chorus in dubbing the incident a "big conspiracy" to tarnish Dharmasthala, a revered pilgrim centre of the Hindus. The saffron party asked the ruling party to make a statement on the progress of the SIT probe in the House. VIDEO | Mass Burial Case: SIT continues search operation at 13th site in Dharmasthala, Karnataka. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvqRQz) pic.twitter.com/FSebCHbsGj Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 12, 2025 Two days after BJP MLA from Karkala V. Sunil Kumar raised the Dharmasthala issue during the zero hour in the ongoing legislature session, alleging that some "invisible hands" were behind the "smear campaign" against the Dharmasthala temple, Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the Congress government was not against the Dharmasthala temple authority. He urged the opposition leaders not to make it a political or religious issue and asserted that the state government was only trying to find out the "truth" and "clear the air" once and for all, as the allegations had made even the devotees of the Dharmasthala temple weary and confused. "The government did not form the SIT, yielding to any pressure. Let me make it very clear. Our only intent is to bring the truth out and deliver justice. We have huge respect and devotion towards Dharmastala. I visited the temple several times. I have even taken former President Abdul Kalam to the temple as a minister," said Parameshwara, adding that the Indian government had honoured Dr Veerendra Heggade with the coveted Padmashri Award for his unparalleled contribution to the society. "Many women are taking to the streets in protest and in support of the Dharmasthala administration as the self-help groups and the educational institutions set up by Dr Heggade have supported the livelihood of thousands of women and empowered them. We formed the SIT to investigate and put an end to all apprehensions and doubts in the minds of people about the temple administration or Dr Heggade," said the home minister, who vehemently denied that the Congress government was being partisan. "From the point of justice, we have ordered a police probe. But any probe has to come to an end, and when it does end, the truth will come out. We are not blindly following the complainant. If his allegations are proved to be false, the new law (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023) has provisions to punish him. Has our government interfered in the probe? We have given the SIT a free hand only to bring the truth out. We did nothing wrong," asserted Parameshwara, adding that he would make a detailed statement on Monday. Big conspiracy, says deputy CM Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also claimed that there was a "big conspiracy" behind the case and people behind it would be exposed on Monday. "It is a well-planned conspiracy to tarnish someone. I will not reveal who has done it. There has been a constant effort to tarnish the image of someone and ruin the long-running tradition and legacy of the temple town. We are all devotees of the temple. But the masked man has made a statement before the court. It is an empty box making a lot of noise. Many MLAs and the CM have expressed that the probe should reach a logical end. The one who does wrong should be punished, but one should not target any religion or make claims without any evidence. We only followed the legal procedure," said Shivakumar. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who is also the Dakshina Kannada district in-charge minister, said the government is only pro-truth and would probe into who is behind the unnamed complainant (masked man). "Till now, we have found nothing in the exhumation. The whole incident was publicised in such a way that it attracted attention worldwide. Initially, the state government had agreed to a police probe. But prominent personalities and organisations portrayed it as a horrendous and unprecedented crime and we instituted a SIT probe. Since we found nothing, we might have to look into the real intent of these people (who demanded an SIT probe) and the purpose of trying to tarnish the image of the place or creating suspicion and fear in the minds of people," said Rao. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah chose to distance himself from the controversy by stating that he had not yielded to any pressure before forming the SIT probe. "In fact, I came to know about the mass burial claims only after my legal advisor apprised me about it," said Sidadramaiah. BJP alleges procedural lapses BJP MLA Arvind Bellad said, "It is not just a discussion on the Dharmastala pilgrim centre or the Veerendra Heggade family, but on the assault on a Hindu place of worship. If a masked man comes and claims that he has buried the bodies of those murdered, he is a co-conspirator or co-accused in the case. He should have been arrested first. But he was neither arrested nor any action was taken against him. He was not interrogated to find out who was with him when he carried out the alleged burials. Instead, he was given VIP treatment. He has become the face of a systematic attack on the sentiments of Hindus." Bellad also reminded that a police station was set ablaze in KJ Halli and DG Halli (in Bengaluru) over a single case (of hurting religious sentiment). "But today, when there is a constant attack on the Hindus' sentiment, the Hindu community is quiet, not because it does not want to retaliate. They are only waiting for an opportune time to hit back," warned Bellad. Expelled BJP MLA from Vijayapura Basanagouda Patil Yatnal demanded that the SIT should be disbanded immediately and the complainant should be subject to narco analysis test to expose the racket. "The SIT should immediately stop digging up Dharmasthala - a sacred place for Hindus. The police are digging up based on a masked man's claims. Tomorrow, will the SIT dig up the temple or the Bahubali betta (hills) if that man claims he has buried the bodies underneath them? So, the government must disband the SIT, and the CM should disclose the SIT's final report in the House on Monday. It is an international conspiracy to defame the temple and the Hindu community. The YouTube influencers have got foreign funding to tarnish the image of the temple town and their bank accounts should be probed," said Yatnal. The tensions between Raj Bhavan and the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu escalated to new heights on Thursday as Governor R.N. Ravi chose to reprimand and admonish the state government on various counts. In his customary Independence Day address on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, Ravi flagged four very serious challenges faced by the people of Tamil Nadu. We must wholeheartedly address some of the very serious challenges facing our people. I would like to make special mention of four of them: educational and social discrimination of the poor and marginalized; an alarming rise in suicides; fast-spreading drug abuse among our youth; and a steep rise in rape and other sexual offenses against women and girl children, Ravi said in his address. Ravi stated that the standards of teaching and learning are sharply declining in Tamil Nadu schools and that the learning outcomes of students in government schools are far lower than the national average. More than 50 percent of high school students cannot do simple two-digit addition and subtraction; they cannot even read primary-level textbooks. The public education ecosystem in Tamil Nadu is on a steady decline, he said. Ravi also alleged that Dalits are physically assaulted in Tamil Nadu and stated that it is a matter of collective shame that even after 78 years of Independence, rampant, humiliating social discrimination persists in Tamil Nadu. Pointing out the increasing suicide rates in the state, Ravi said that the suicide rate in Tamil Nadu is over 26 per one lakh population, more than double the national average of 12 suicides per one lakh population. He also alleged that there is a sharp increase in drug abuse among students and youth in the state. This deadly menace has to be tackled both on the demand and supply sides. Greater awareness and stricter enforcement are needed to curb the demand for drugs; however, tackling the supply side is more difficult because powerful syndicates with alleged patronage of the powers-that-be are behind it. He also contended that there is a steep rise in rape and other sexual offenses against women and girl children in Tamil Nadu. Reacting to Ravis statement, the DMK responded by announcing that the Chief Minister and his ministers will boycott the 'At Home' reception hosted by the Governor at the Raj Bhavan on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day. In a statement, Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhian said that the decision was taken to protest against the Governor for his activities that are against the interests of Tamils and Tamil Nadu. He also said that he will boycott the convocation ceremonies of two universities scheduled to be held next week, which will be presided over by the Governor. Ravis address, accusing the states apathy on four counts, and the governments reaction, have, however, brought back the tensions between Raj Bhavan and the government, which had been lying low for the past four months since the Supreme Court ruling. Recently, the Supreme Court had issued orders, effectively clearing all bills that Ravi had previously withheld without granting approval. Though things had remained silent, the standoff flared up again when Ravi forwarded a bill, seeking to set up a university in the name of former Chief Minister Karunanidhi, to the President for assent. This led to tension between the government and the Governor. With elections around the corner, the face-off resurfacing once again is likely to turn political. Meanwhile, during a convocation ceremony at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, one of the students refused to take her convocation certificate from Ravi. During the 32nd convocation ceremony held in Tirunelveli on Wednesday, Jean Joseph, a PhD student, walked past Ravi and accepted her degree from Vice-Chancellor Chandrasekar, who was standing beside him. Ravi looked at the student with a smile. UK-based broker Specialist Risk Group (SRG) has agreed to acquire compatriot City Quarter Brokers for an undisclosed sum. City Quarter Brokers, known for its work with complex and technical risks in the construction, engineering and infrastructure sector, will join SRG's Wholesale division. This division already has other specialist brands, namely Miles Smith, CBC Partnership, SRI and TUE, in its portfolio. The latest acquisition is expected to enhance SRGs service offerings in the placement of complex risk. Specialist Risk Group group deputy CEO Lee Anderson said: We are thrilled to welcome City Quarter Brokers to SRG. Their strong technical expertise in construction and engineering, combined with a global outlook and a dedication to broker service, is completely aligned with our values. As we continue to build out our wholesale platform, City Quarter Brokers represents the kind of deep specialism that makes a real difference to brokers and clients navigating complex risk. City Quarter Brokers CEO Rob Walton stated: We have built a strong reputation for delivering tailored solutions on technically challenging risks, and SRGs platform will enable us to expand our reach while staying true to our specialist ethos. Together we look forward to unlocking opportunities while preserving the qualities our clients value most. Last month, SRG purchased Generation Underwriting from WF Risk Group. Generation Underwriting, which collaborates with brokers serving small to medium-sized enterprises and the mid-market, provides a variety of insurance products such as commercial combined, property owners, fleet and contractors all risks. With this addition, SRG expanded its resources, benefitting from improved data analytics and wider distribution networks. "Specialist Risk Group buys City Quarter Brokers " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. The Supreme Court on Thursday reserved its order on pleas challenging its August 11 directive to permanently relocate street dogs to shelters in Delhi-NCR. The special bench of Justice Vikram Nath, Justices Sandeep Mehta and N.V. Anjaria, however, refused to stay the order, which has elicited widespread criticism from animal advocates and a large section of the society. Goa has set up a task force to deal with stray dogs. This comes after the Supreme Court ordered removal of over 10 lakh stray dogs from Delhi and nearby areas. The task force will find areas with high dog numbers and suggest action to prevent attacks.#goa #supremecourt pic.twitter.com/rY64UZc0JP THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) August 13, 2025 During the hearing, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta explained the alarming situation the stray dog menace has created in the capital city. WHO data shows 305 deaths a year. Most children are under age group of 15. Nobody is an animal hater...Dogs do not have to be killed...they have to be separated. Parents cannot send children out to play. Young girls are mutilated, he said, reported the Bar and Bench. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for NGO Project Kindness, sought a stay on the August 11 order, saying the municipal corporations have not built any shelter homes for the canines. All authorities directed to pick up dogs...this direction has to be stayed. What will happen? They will be culled...dogs are kept together...food is thrown, and then they attack each other...This cannot be permitted, Sibal said. After hearing both sides, the bench reserved its order. Justice Nath observed that though Parliament frames rules and laws, they are not being implemented properly. On one hand, humans are suffering, and on the other hand, the animal lovers are here. Have some responsibility...all those who have filed interventions have to file affidavits and furnish evidence. All of you," he said. VIDEO | Lucknow: Responding to the Supreme Courts directive to move stray dogs to shelter homes, former Co-op Member of AWBI Kamna Pandey says, I hope the CJI will consider the practical implications. When dogs are removed from the streets, what will be the impact? In 1999, pic.twitter.com/XtsGiiWt9U Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) August 13, 2025 On August 11, a bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan issued an order to remove all the stray dogs from the streets and relocate them to shelters "at the earliest". The bench also said dog shelters will have to be augmented over time and directed Delhi authorities to start with creating shelters of around 5,000 canines within six to eight weeks. The order elicited sharp criticism, following which Chief Justice B.R. Gavai on Wednesday withdrew the case from the earlier bench and posted it for hearing on Thursday before a new bench. Relief operations have intensified following a tragic cloudburst in the Chashoti area of Padder, Kishtwar district, which resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people on Thursday. The cloudburst triggered a flash flood along the route of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra. There are concerns that the death toll may rise as search operations continue in the remote and challenging terrain. The Shree Machail Mata Yatra, which began on July 25 and will run until September 5, attracts thousands of devotees each year to the Chandi Mata Mandir in Machail, Paddar Valley. At least 10 people are feared dead after a massive cloudburst on Thursday triggered flash floods that struck the Chositi village in Jammu and Kashmirs Kishtwar district. The site of the flash floods is said to be along the Machail Mata Yatra route. The initial reports yet to pic.twitter.com/kb4NJFDz0U THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) August 14, 2025 The district administration, led by Divisional Commissioner Ramesh Kumar and supported by the Machail Mata Yatra Cell, had established sanitation, security, and health facilities to ensure a smooth pilgrimage. The disaster occurred between 12 pm and 1 pm, when many devotees were gathered for the pilgrimage. Chashoti is the last motorable point before the 8.5km trek to the shrine begins. The cloudburst severely impacted both the road from Padder to Chashoti and the subsequent yatra route. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as grim, stating that information was arriving slowly due to the area's remoteness. He mentioned, I just spoke to the Union Home Minister @AmitShah Sb to brief him about the developing situation All possible resources are being mobilised The government will share information as and when possible, and added, I would not be speaking to news channels for now. Union Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that he had spoken to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Abdullah to assure them of full support. He said that rescue and relief efforts were underway and that teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had been dispatched to the site. The central government is closely monitoring the situation and stands firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he posted on X. Local MP Dr Jitendra Singh said he had been informed by the Leader of Opposition and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma. He confirmed that rescue teams were deployed and arrangements for medical care and damage assessment were in place. Singh said that his office was receiving regular updates and would provide all possible assistance to those affected. Sinha expressed deep sorrow over the incident and instructed civil, police, army, NDRF, and SDRF teams to strengthen rescue and relief efforts. MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma, MLA of the area and leader of the opposition in the J&K Assembly, is closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with the administration to ensure that pilgrims and residents receive the necessary help. Teams from SDRF, NDRF, and local police are on-site, with medical facilities, including doctors and medicines, positioned at medical booths along the pilgrimage route. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised Pakistan to temper its war-mongering rhetoric against India and warned "any misadventure by Pakistan will have painful consequences." The MEA spokesperson's comments come amidst Pakistan's war-mongering over the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty. During the weekly media briefing on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is a well-known modus operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures." He added, "Pakistan would be well-advised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences, as was demonstrated recently," ANI reported. India recently called out Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's nuclear threat and said, "Nuclear sabre-rattling is Pakistan's stock-in-trade." The Pakistani Army chief said, "We are a nuclear nation. If we think we are going down, well take half the world down with us, PTI reported. Addressing the Pakistan diaspora in the United States recently, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said India would not be allowed to take "one drop of water" from Indus River and it would be considered an act of war. If you threaten to hold our water, you cannot snatch even one drop of Pakistan, Sharif had said. India-US ties The MEA spokesperson said India-US ties is anchored in shared interests, and robust "people-to-people ties". "This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges, as we had said earlier, and we remain focused on the substantive agenda that the two countries have committed to, and we hope that the relationship will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests," the spokesperson said. The spokesperson noted that a US defence policy team is expected to visit India in mid-August. "Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 intersessional meeting at the working-level towards the end of this month." The birthplace of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Salalah, is the capital of the Dhofar region in Oman, over 1,000km away from Muscat. It is a world apart from the sun-scorched landscapes often associated with the Arabian Peninsula. Here, the annual Khareef monsoon cloaks the land in mist between July and September, transforming the desert into a lush, emerald paradisea spectacle unlike anywhere else in the Middle East. But beyond its fleeting green season, Salalah is also a treasure trove of ancient heritage, rich traditions, and coastal beauty - the true land of frankincensea coveted element for luxury fragrances across the globe and holding the prized treasure of ancient maritime heritage. Start your journey inland towards Jabal Samhan, a dramatic plateau rising above the Dhofar coastline. In the khareef season (June to September), the mountains are swaddled in cool mist and low-hanging clouds that gently caress your skin. The air smells faintly of wild grass and damp earth, and from the top, the views spill endlessly over deep canyons and the Arabian Sea beyond. Pack a picnic of local dates, Omani flatbread, and laban (a yoghurt drink) to enjoy on the summit, while watching herds of camels stroll languidly across the high plains before making their way to the beaches below. The sight of their silhouettes against the turquoise waters is one you wont forget. For a taste of the coast, head west to Mughsail Beach, where the surf crashes dramatically against white sand and limestone cliffs. Natural blowholes shoot seawater into the air with every crashing wave, the drive along the cliffside road offering picture-perfect views of the Arabian Sea. Eastward, Fazayah Beach hides a string of secluded coves with powder-soft sand and impossibly clear watersideal for an afternoon of pure, undisturbed relaxation. Boats at Wadis | Chandreyi Bandyopadhyay Down in the city, the Al Haffa Souq introduces the first immersion in the regions frankincense trade. Stalls overflow with resin in shades of gold and ivory, alongside intricately woven Omani caps, silver jewellery, and spices. Make a point to visit the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, where a well endowed maritime museum tells stories of Dhofar as the beating heart of the incense trade, from China to Africa. The museum gives context to the citys maritime and cultural history with an ancient frankincense tree adorning the central courtyard. No trip to Salalah is complete without venturing into the wadis of Dhofar, which burst into life during Khareef. Wadi Darbat, with its cascading waterfalls, emerald pools, and gently flowing rivers, feels almost tropical. Families gather under shady trees for leisurely picnics, while small boats glide across the still waters. Further afield, Wadi Ayn offers a dramatic contrast, with towering cliffs framing a deep pool at the base of a natural spring. These pockets of greenery, set against the rugged Omani landscape, reveal a softer, more unexpected side of the desert. Wadi Ayn | Chandreyi Bandyopadhyay Salalahs food reflects a blend of Omani tradition with Yemeni influence. Try mashuai, a whole kingfish grilled and served with lemon rice, or maajoon, a spiced date paste eaten with warm bread. The seafood is exceptionalgrilled prawns, lobster, and freshly caught snapper are served at casual beachside restaurants within the marina town Hawana Salalah. Dont leave without sampling shawarma wrapped in soft Arabic bread or the delicate halwa flavoured with saffron and rosewater. It is not difficult to find Om-Ali and Kunafa, the popular desserts and Shuwa, a lamb meat and rice preparation served during Ramadan at good restaurants. Accommodation here ranges from opulent resorts to intimate boutique stays. For an indulgent retreat, Al Baleed Resort by Anantara offers private pool villas, serene spa treatments, and direct beach access. The sleek Alila Hinu Bay, located west of Salalah along a rugged and untouched coastline, blends minimalist design with Omani warmthperfect for travellers seeking luxury paired with seclusion. For something quieter, boutique guesthouses in the Dhofar countryside give you the chance to wake up to the sight of mist-draped hills and the sound of distant camel bells. Juweirah boutique hotel on the other hand offers an adults only retreat. As evening falls, the citys palm-fringed coastline glows under the warm sunset hues, while the fragrance of frankincense wafts through the streets. Salalah offers many contrastslush green mountains meeting azure seas, ancient trade routes blending with modern comfort, and a sense of timelessness that lingers long in memories. Chandreyi Bandyopadhyay is a freelance journalist capturing wildlife, culture and lesser known destinations on her travels. She can be reached at @themoonchasersofficial on Instagram US President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of very severe consequences if he doesnt agree to stop the war in 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," Trump said while answering a reporters question during a press meet at the Kennedy Centre. #WATCH | "Yes. There will be consequences. I don't have to say (on the type of consequences). There will be very severe consequences," says President Donald Trump when asked whether Russia will face consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin does not agree to stop the war pic.twitter.com/6Syl8ZwEK2 ANI (@ANI) August 13, 2025 Both Trump and Putin are scheduled to meet at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska's Anchorage on Friday to discuss the potential ceasefire. This would be the first US-Russia summit since 2021, when former President Joe Biden met Putin in Geneva. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy is unlikely to be invited to the meeting even though several European countries have been insisting that the "path to peace" cannot be decided without Kyiv. Trump said if the first meeting goes well, a second meeting might be held soon, potentially involving Zelenskiyy. "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, he said. The US President, however, made it clear that the second meeting would not take place if he didnt get the answers he wanted in the first meeting. "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," he asserted. Tochni (Cyprus), Aug 14 (AP) On opposite sides of ethnically divided Cyprus, even the resting places of the dead haven't been spared the fallout of war. Shattered granite crosses are strewn about the weed-choked Greek Cypriot cemeteries in the island's northern third that's in Turkish Cypriot hands. In the Greek Cypriot south, Muslim headstones in Turkish Cypriot cemeteries are concealed by overgrowth. Until 2003, no one could cross a United Nations-controlled buffer zone to place flowers at loved ones' graves. In the five decades since a Turkish invasion, vandalism and the ravages of time have transformed hundreds of Cyprus' cemeteries into evidence of the geographic and political rift. But even as chances for bilateral talks to end the divide appear bleak, Greek and Turkish Cypriots have teamed up to mend mistrust and push for peace, one grave at a time. Restoration is underway at 15 civilian cemeteries on each side of the so-called Green Line cutting across the Mediterranean island. Expansion of the roughly 7,00,000-Euro project (USD 815,000) to more cemeteries is being considered. The maintenance and restoration of cemeteries constitutes one of the most symbolic and morally pressing acts for a place that strives for reconciliation, said Sotos Ktoris, a Greek Cypriot member of the committee from both communities overseeing the work. The consequences of war Turkiye's 1974 invasion, triggered when Athens-backed supporters of uniting Cyprus with Greece mounted a coup, prompted some 1,60,000 Greek Cypriots to flee their villages to safety in the south, where the internationally recognised government is seated. Some 45,000 Turkish Cypriots moved north, where authorities declared independence a decade later. To this day, only Turkiye recognizes Cyprus' northern authorities. Among the displaced were the custodians of places of worship and cemeteries, both Orthodox Christian and Muslim. Churches in the north were vandalised and looted. Mosques in the south fell into neglect and decay. As part of UN-mediated efforts to achieve a peace deal, both sides have found ways to address past wrongs, including the restoration of churches, mosques and other monuments by the committee. Earlier this year, Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar expanded the committee's work to cemetery restoration, with European Union funding and UN support and assistance. Work began in May. Seeking mutual respect Greek Cypriot workers last month were rebuilding the 100-year-old stone wall at one Muslim cemetery in Tochni, a village nestled in hilly countryside near the southern coast. Turkish Cypriot residents had outnumbered Greek Cypriots here by nearly three to one until they were transferred north a few months after the Turkish invasion ended. Many Turkish Cypriots from the north are now visiting the village to reconnect with their past, find family homes and honour their ancestors, according to Tochni's Greek Cypriot community leader, Charoulla Efstratiou. Just as we demand that they respect us, our dead, our religion and so forth, I believe that we owe the same respect to them, Efstratiou said. At the Tochni cemetery, a small patch of crimson flowers emerged from the parched soil atop the grave of a man who died 65 years ago, planted recently by his descendants. Putting up crosses In the village of Palaikythro that Turkish Cypriots have renamed Balikesir, broken crosses at the Greek Cypriot cemetery have been set upright again until they're fully mended. Virtually nothing was left intact. Turkish Cypriot contractor Recep Guler said it wasn't easy to restore the external walls and gate. Murude Erzen, the village's Turkish Cypriot community leader, said the cemetery is part of shared cultural heritage. When I saw this place, I was very upset, wondering why it had become like this, Erzen told the United Nations Development Programme in footage shared with the AP. Turkish Cypriot authorities had denied the AP access. When Erzen became community leader, she resolved to do something about it. Sotiroulla Mina Iniati, the Greek Cypriot community leader of Palaikythro, said the cost of full restoration of crosses will be borne by families or the community council. Greek Cypriots continue to elect their own community leader to affirm their claim to their lost lands and preserve their memory. For us, this is a sacred place, Iniati said. We feel that in this way, the souls of our dead who have for 51 years remain neglected, will be able to rest. An intractable dispute The last major push for a peace deal in Cyprus collapsed in 2017. Today, the Turkish Cypriots and Turkiye shun the UN-endorsed framework for reunifying Cyprus as a federation. They insist on a two-state deal that Greek Cypriots reject because they view partition as dooming the island to Turkiye's influence, with its military hardware and troops stationed there in perpetuity. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has met Christodoulides and Tatar twice this year and is expected to meet them again in the coming months in a bid to keep peace talks alive. (AP) NPK NPK An upstate New York man who opened fire outside a synagogue filled with preschoolers just weeks after the start of the Israel-Hamas war will spend the next decade in federal prison. Mufid Alkhader, 29, was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years behind bars for a December 2023 attack on Temple Israel of Albany, where 61 children and their teachers were forced into lockdown as he fired a shotgun and shouted Free Palestine! The chilling assault which came just hours before the first night of Chanukah ended without physical injuries, but left deep emotional scars. My daughter was in Hebrew class with her teacher, whose own child was on the other side of the building, congregant Rachel Mandel said in 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. According to prosecutors, Alkhader fired two rounds into the air before his weapon jammed, then ranted about the Middle East when arrested. The Palestinian-born gunman had acquired the firearm through a straw purchase for which another man was sentenced to 14 months in prison last year. Alkhader pleaded guilty in February to obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, brandishing a firearm during that crime, and conspiring to buy a gun illegally. Prosecutors pushed for the maximum, arguing he intended to terrorize the Jewish congregation. He wanted to scare the people in that building and scare them he did, prosecutor Richard Belliss told the court. Defense attorneys cited Alkhaders severe mental illness and urged leniency. But U.S. District Judge Anne Nardacci rejected a lighter sentence, saying the trauma inflicted on the children and staff warranted the full decade in prison. In a brief statement, wearing an orange jail shirt, Alkhader told the court he was not in [his] right mind at the time of the attack and asked for forgiveness. Alkhader, who was born in a Palestinian refugee camp near Baghdad, came to the U.S. as a refugee in 2012 and became a naturalized citizen in 2014. At the time of the shooting, he lived in nearby Schenectady. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) 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 meets 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. Trump was very clear that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron said at a separate appearance in France. 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 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 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 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. (AP) 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 Moscows 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 AP that the campaign is becoming more violent. During the April incident, hackers gained access to a digital system which remotely controls one of the dams 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 dams 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. (AP) The Gartex Texprocess India Expo 2025 is scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 August 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in Halls 2, 3, and 4. Jointly organised by MEX Exhibitions and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India, the expo will host over 600 brands and more than 200 exhibitors from around the world, including new participants from China, Japan, Italy, Germany, and Singapore. Notably, 35% of these participants will be making their debut at the event. A highlight of the Delhi edition will be two new additions: the LeatherX Pavilion and the Textile Care Forum. The Textile Care Forum on day two of the expo will focus on discussions about washing and finishing's impact on a garments lifecycle and environmental footprint. It will also cover topics such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines, green chemistry, and sustainable laundry practices. The new LeatherX Pavilion aims to foster collaboration within leather processing and tanning industries as well as fashion accessories and footwear sectors. This addition is part of a strategic move to integrate complementary sectors within the expo's scope. Spanning over 150,000ft2 of exhibit space, Gartex Texprocess India 2025 will also include dedicated zones such as The Denim Show, in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association, Fabrics and Trims Show and Screen Print India. Messe Frankfurt Asia executive director and board member Raj Manek said: The remarkable growth of Indias textile sector is mirrored in the success of Gartex Texprocess India across both its editions. The show continues to deliver unmatched value for every visitor and exhibitor alike. This year, with the introduction of the Textile Care Forum and LeatherX Pavilion, along with the spotlight on smart automation in the laundry and dry-cleaning industry, we are set to elevate the experience further. Initially centred around garment machinery and manufacturing solutions, Gartex Texprocess India has expanded its reach to include knitting, embroidery, digital printing technologies, sewing technologies, trims, accessories, software solutions, and e-commerce enablers. MEX Exhibitions Directors Himani Gulati and Gaurav Juneja stated: "In the last five years, the show has grown immensely in terms of product categories. Our continued focus on technology-driven solutions, value-added machinery and new features like the Textile Care Forum and LeatherX Pavilion ensures the show remains a complete sourcing and networking destination for the garment and textile industry." India produces approximately 1.6bn meters of denim fabrics annually. A pickup truck went through a stop sign in rural Michigan and crashed into a van carrying members of an Amish community, killing at least six people, authorities said. The crash occurred Tuesday afternoon in Tuscola Countys Gilford Township, 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of Detroit. Thirteen people were in the two vehicles, including 10 in the van, the sheriffs office said. Multiple passengers were ejected from the van and the pickup, the sheriffs office said on Facebook. At this time there are 6 confirmed fatalities and the condition of the additional patients is unknown. Members of a local Amish community were in the van, Undersheriff Robert Baxter said Wednesday. They had a paid driver in the van, he told The Associated Press. Im not sure where they were headed or where they were coming from. Theyre county residents. Baxter said seven people were taken to a hospital. He had no update on their conditions. The Amish generally follow basic Christian beliefs while maintaining a degree of separation from common society. They typically rely on horse-drawn buggies for transportation and do not operate their own cars or trucks but will ride in vehicles driven by people who are not Amish. In a separate tragedy Tuesday in western Michigan, a 4-month-old girl died after a crash involving a pickup truck and an Amish buggy, state police said. There were four other children and two adults in the buggy. A 2-year-old boy was in critical condition, police said. This tragic crash is a sobering reminder to drive with patience and caution in areas where horse-and-buggy travel is a way of life, police said. About 61% of North Americas Amish population lives in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana, according to Elizabethtown College, though Michigan also has a relatively large share. (AP) The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Thursday dismissed South Korean claims 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. 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 AP 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. It has always been the case that North Korea often makes claims that arent true, he said. No interest in talks with the US She 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. 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 with Trump during his first term. 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 Souths 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 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 Souths 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. 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. (AP) An Ibiza property manager canceled a confirmed reservation for a group of French and Israeli Jewstelling them bluntly, You are not welcome until the genocide with Palestine stops. The group had booked a stay in Spains popular tourist destination and paid a 2,500 deposit. The dispute began when the lead guest informed the manager that two members of their party could not attend due to the ongoing war in Gaza, and asked about a partial cancellation. They offered to replace the missing guests with friends from France. Instead, the manager responded with the antisemitic refusal, announcing she would keep the 2,500 deposit and donate it to Gaza. She then blocked the clients and changed her Facebook cover photo to a Free Palestine banner. The move was illegal under Spanish law, which prohibits denying service based on nationality, ethnicity, or religion. A complaint was filed, and the manager was ultimately forced to return the 2,500 deposit to the travelers. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) The Likud Central Committee held a vote on Wednesday, approving an agreement for a merger of the Likud and Gideon Saars New Hope party, bringing Saar back to the party five years after he quit due to differences with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. The members of the Likud Central Committee received Saar with great enthusiasm and warmth. Saar, with a kippah on his head, delivered an emotional speech, beginning by reciting the bracha of Shechiyanu. How good it is to return home, he began. On October 7, we all woke up to a frightful morning and an actual attempt to destroy the Jewish people in their land, and this is the war we have been waging for the past two years. And in the face of this historic event, everyone had to decide how to behave. The members of the opposition had to decide whether they were exploiting this terrible and historic event and the difficult war that followed for political gain or whether they were enlisting to strengthen the State of Israel in a fateful hour. Your browser does not support the video tag. Baruch Hashem, I thank Hakadosh Baruch Hu who gave my colleagues and me the zechus to stand up to strengthen the government of Israel and the State of Israel in these critical moments, Saar said. During that period, I held a long series of talks with Prime Minister Netanyahu. In these talks, when I understood what directions he wanted to lead, first in Lebanon, then in Iranto dismantle the Iranian axisI made a decision at that moment to join the government and strengthen it. And I believe that days will come after these difficult days we are experiencing when we will be able to proudly tell our grandchildren and great-grandchildren about the decisions that saved the State of Israel from the danger of destruction. I can also say that even then, in those days before we signed the first agreement between us, the Prime Minister offered that I should join Likud with my colleagues. I told the Prime Minister that I believe him and we will see that we are working together, and then we will take the second step of uniting forces in the national camp. Before us lies a historic struggle against the broad international attempt to impose the establishment of a Palestinian state in the heart of the Land of Israel. Who will be able to lead the people and the country in this campaign against the establishment of a Palestinian state other than the national campLikud, headed by the Prime Minister? When all those countries come that want to impose the establishment of a Palestinian state on Israel, who will stand against them? Yair Lapid? Yair Golan? What have we fought for all our lives? For the Land of Israel. These are crucial moments. We saw this when we initiated a discussion in the Knesset against the establishment of a Palestinian state, and people told us that it was not on the agenda. I knew very well what the price would be and what they would say on the radio, all those who in the past praised me when it suited them. And I knew that it wouldnt end with me and that it would reach my family, my wife, and my children. But it was clear to me that in the face of the moment in which we find ourselves, there is no question of what needs to be done, and that is exactly what I did together with my colleagues. When there are such attacks, you need to remind yourself of the reason for which you are in public life. If you remember that, everything is clear. He also referred to his relationship with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Certain media outlets always choose to bring quotes from a specific period. But I remember the whole journey. I remember great days together, and you also remember that from an abyss of 12 mandates against all oddsI also remember the elections in 99. I remember days that, Baruch Hashem, have returned, where we worked together, shoulder to shoulder, out of trust and dedication to a shared path and values. I thank you, Prime Minister, for the trust and for the ability to overcome what was. I thank you for that, and that is what we both did to work together for the State of Israel. We are all flesh and blood. Everyone can look back, but usually what can be changed is the future. I believe that just as we strengthened the country and the government in crucial moments and in a crucial period, bezras Hashem we are supporting and will support the national camp in the first round towards the next elections. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) A relentless weeklong heatwave brought Israel to a sweltering standstill on Wednesday, toppling temperature records across the country, pushing the national power grid beyond its limits, and forcing sweeping restrictions on outdoor activity. The Israel Meteorological Service (IMS) reported a blistering 49.7C (121.5F) in Kibbutz Gilgal in the Jordan Valley the highest reading nationwide and a new regional record, surpassing the previous 49.3C (120.7F). Eilat followed close behind at 48.8C (119.8F), while Kfar Blum in the Galilee hit 46.8C (116.2F). Jerusalem baked at 40.8C (105.4F), and Tel Aviv, by comparison, saw a cool 33.5C (92.3F). The extreme heat rewrote the record books: Tzfas reached 41.4C (106.5F), breaking its all-time high; new peaks were also logged in Ayelet Hashachar, Maaleh Adumim, and Arad. Even overnight temperatures refused to drop the Sodom station near Yam Hamelach recorded an unprecedented low of 36.6C (97.8F), the hottest minimum temperature ever measured in Israel. Eilat and Yotvata also reported record warm nights at 35.8C (96.4F) and 33.7C (92.7F), respectively. As Israelis sought refuge indoors, electricity demand surged to a staggering 17,287 megawatts at 3:15 p.m., smashing the previous days record of 16,000 MW and marking the fourth consecutive day of record-breaking consumption, according to the Independent System Operator (Noga). Extreme heatwaves are no longer an unusual event, but a reality that will return in the years to come, warned Noga director Shiki Fisher, pledging coordinated efforts with power producers and smart management to keep the grid stable. In response to the tinderbox conditions, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority extended a ban on entry to all hiking trails in national parks and reserves through Shabbos. The Israel Fire and Rescue Services have also kept a nationwide ban on open-air bonfires in place until the end of the month. Infrastructure also took a hit. Israel Railways imposed a speed limit of 80 km/h (50 mph) on certain routes after extreme heat caused track expansion, warning passengers to expect delays. Meteorologists forecast a slight drop in temperatures Thursday and Friday before a return to seasonally hot conditions over the weekend, with highs of 30C (86F) in Jerusalem and 40C (105F) in Eilat. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Military police carried out an arrest operation in the north overnight Wednesday and attempted to arrest bnei yeshivos in the city of Kiryat Ata. One yeshivah bochur was arrested at home at 1:45 a.m. and transferred to military prison. The police also attempted to arrest another yeshivah bochur at his home at 3:43 a.m., but he managed to escape under the cover of dozens of protesters from Peleg Yerushalmi who were called to the scene. Additionally, military police attempted to arrest a ben yeshivah at his parents home in Beer Sheva but left the scene when they discovered he wasnt at home. Kan Moreshet reported that the IDF also arrested five non-Chareidi deserters, which seems to prove reports that the IDF is carrying out general arrest operations but is not specifically targeting Chareidi deserters or entering Chareidi cities. Nevertheless, it is the first time in Israeli history that lomdei Torah are being defined as criminals and are being arrested at their homes in the dead of the night and imprisoned. At the instruction of Gedolei Yisrael, a tefillah rally with the participation of hundreds of Roshei Yeshivos is scheduled to take place on Thursday outside the military prison where the detained yeshivah bochurim are being held. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) Ali Larijani, secretary of Irans Supreme National Security Council, received more than one blow on a diplomatic trip this week, including a visit to Beirut on Wednesday. After completing a visit to Iraq, Larijani was forced to bypass Syria, which banned Iran from using its airspace, flying via Turkish airspace instead to reach Lebanon. Larijani then received a major blow when, after being greeted in Beirut, President Joseph Aoun made it clear to him that Lebanon rejects any interference in its internal affairs by any party whatsoever. We want Lebanon to remain safe and stable for the benefit of all Lebanese without discrimination, Aoun said. Lebanon, which does not interfere in any way in the affairs of any other country and respects its privacy, including Iran, does not accept anyone interfering in its internal affairs. In addition, Aoun told Larijani in no uncertain terms that no group (Hezbollah) will be permitted to bear arms or be supported by foreign funds. Aoun emphasized that the language that Lebanon has recently heard from some senior Iranian officials is not helpful. The friendship we seek to establish between the two countries must not be with one faction or one Lebanese component, but with all Lebanese. Aoun was referring to Tehrans statement lambasting Lebanons announcement on August 7 that its cabinet has approved a US-backed proposal for disarming Hezbollah and other armed terror groups Larijani also met with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, who reiterated Aouns message, as well as Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salami, who told him that the recent statements of some Iranian elements are unacceptable in their form and content. These positions, which included direct criticism of Lebanese decisions made by the constitutional authorities of the country, and especially those that carried explicit threats, constitute a blatant deviation from diplomatic norms and a violation of the principle of mutual respect. Salami emphasized that neither I nor any senior Lebanese official allow ourselves to interfere in Irans internal affairs, whether by supporting one party over another or by opposing sovereign Iranian decisions. Therefore, Lebanon will not accept in any way interference in its internal affairs, and it expects a clear and explicit commitment from the Iranian side to these rulesthe decisions of the Lebanese government are not subject to debate in any other country. (YWN Israel DeskJerusalem) The head of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is scrambling to reverse course after a firestorm of criticism over the festivals decision to pull a documentary on Hamass October 7 massacre from its lineup. Cameron Bailey, TIFFs CEO, issued a statement Wednesday apologizing for the controversy and pledging to work with the filmmakers of The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue to get the movie back on the big screen. 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, Bailey said. 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. The documentary follows retired Israeli Maj. Gen. Noam Tibon, who raced into danger to rescue his son, journalist Amir Tibon, and his family as Hamas-led terrorists stormed their home on Kibbutz Nachal Oz on October 7. The film contains harrowing footage shot by the attackers themselves, capturing the atrocities as they committed them. According to figures connected to the production, TIFF officials said the film was pulled over copyright concerns tied to the fact that the filmmakers did not secure permission from the Hamas terrorists whose clips appear in the documentary. Bailey, however, pushed back hard against accusations of censorship, calling them unequivocally false. The decision sparked condemnation from Israels Foreign Ministry and the Canadian Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, both of which blasted the removal as an affront to truth-telling about the massacre. Bailey said TIFFs legal team is now working with the filmmakers to consider all options available to meet the festivals screening requirements. He urged the public to grant patience and understanding as we navigate this complex landscape. I remain committed to working with the filmmaker to meet TIFFs screening requirements to allow the film to be screened at this years festival, Bailey said. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Mossad chief David Barnea traveled to Doha, Qatar, for talks with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani this week, in a meeting Israeli officials say was unrelated to ongoing hostage negotiations. A senior security source said Thursday that Barnea made it clear during the meeting that the idea of a partial hostage deal previously floated in back-channel discussions had been dropped. The visit comes as diplomatic efforts in the region appear to be stirring. Hamas has indicated openness to resuming negotiations, with senior official Taher al-Nunu saying talks would center on ways to stop the war in the Strip, allow the entry of aid, and end the suffering of the people in Gaza. On Wednesday, a Hamas delegation led by senior figure Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo for discussions with Egyptian officials their first such visit since Israels security cabinet approved a military operation to capture Gaza City last week. Despite the activity, an Israeli official said no new proposals from Hamas have been conveyed regarding a possible agreement. Israel has not ruled out sending a delegation for talks, but officials say that no decision has been made. Mediators Qatar and Egypt are continuing efforts to craft a comprehensive framework that would include the release of all hostages and an end to the war. While the option of a smaller, partial deal involving only 10 hostages has not been entirely ruled out by mediators, Israels position on the matter remains unchanged. According to Egyptian sources quoted by Saudi broadcaster Al Arabiya, the latest proposal envisions a two-stage process: Hamas would commit to a long-term ceasefire, freeze the activities of its military wing during a transitional period, and halt weapons manufacturing and smuggling. The plan reportedly includes the symbolic exile of certain Hamas leaders from Gaza, the deployment of temporary international and Arab forces, and a gradual IDF withdrawal under Arab and American supervision. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A photograph that set off a firestorm of outrage online Wednesdaypurportedly showing a group of chareidi bochurim dancing on the graves of David Ben-Gurion and his wife, Paulaappears to be an AI-generated fake, according to police. The image, which was widely circulated, was initially described as having been taken at the gravesite in Sde Boker. The Israel Nature and Parks Authority, which manages the site, confirmed that security cameras at the gravesite have not been functioning in recent days. Patrol teams inspected the area in the hours following the online uproar and found no evidence that such an incident had taken place. Orly Gilad, director of the Negev Highlands district for the Authority, said she received messages from concerned residents after the photo surfaced, but said that nothing on the ground matched the scene depicted in the image. The Ben-Gurion Heritage Institute condemned the supposed incident, declaring that whether the photo is authentic or fabricated, it is an attempt to demean the memory of Israels first prime minister. The institute vowed to work with law enforcement to identify those behind it. Ramat Negev Regional Council head Eran Doron, a resident of Sde Boker, reiterated his earlier reaction: If the picture is real, this is a most serious incident, and words cannot describe the depth of my shock. Beyond being a national park and the burial place of Israels first prime minister, Ben-Gurions grave receives more than half a million visitors each year who come to enjoy the breathtaking view of Nachal Zin. The investigation is ongoing. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Bitmine Immersion is upping its fundraise target for buying more ETH by $20 billion, according to the firm's filing with federal regulators on Tuesday, as it jockeys to maintain its standing as the world's largest Ethereum treasury. The cryptocurrency mining company aims to raise a total of $24.5 billion of its common stock. The announcement marks a dramatic expansion of its common stock sale, for which the company had already made $4.5 billion worth of its shares available to investors. Under the sale, Bitmine Immersion's common stock shares will go for $0.0001 each. It is unclear what percentage of Bitmine's stock sale proceeds will go toward purchasing ETH. A company representative did not immediately reply to Decrypt's request for comment on the matter. Bitmine Immersion's expansion of its common stock sale comes as a growing number of publicly traded firms establish Ethereum treasuries, fueling a resurgence in the cryptocurrency's price. Sharplink Gaming, BitMine and EtherMachine and Bit Digital largely began pivoting to accumulating massive amounts of Ethereum as a corporate strategy to lift shares of their stocks, adapting the playbook of Michael Saylor's software firm Strategy, which is the largest corporate holder of Bitcoin. The companies holdings could soon account for 10% of all Ethereum in circulation, according to one Standard Chartered analyst. And as publicly traded companies snap up greater amounts of Ethereum, the layer-1 token's price has skyrocketed. Solana Meme Coins Slump as Investors Rotate into ETH & Quality-Focused Altcoins ETH is trading just below $4,500 as of writing time, up 50% in the past month and more than 70% year-to-date. That puts it less than 9% below its all-time high of just above $4,900 hit in November 2021. In a Myriad Linea markets, nearly 80% of participants expect Ethereum to trade over $5,000 by years-end. (Disclosure: Myriad is a prediction market and engagement platform developed by Dastan, parent company of an editorially independent Decrypt.) As the altcoin's value has swelled, so too has Bitmine Immersion's stock. The company's shares were recently trading at $62.05 on Tuesday, up 51% in the past month and up nearly 700% in the year to date. President Donald Trump is weighing a visit to Israel next month, contingent on the outcome of ongoing negotiations with Hamas over a ceasefire and the release of hostages, according to a report by Ynet citing American and Israeli officials. A U.S. official told Ynet that while Trump is scheduled to travel to the United Kingdom September 1719 at the invitation of King Charles III, a stop in Israel is possible but not certain and not finalized. The official said the likelihood of the trip depends on developments in the talks on a ceasefire and an end to the war in Gaza. Trump would like to come to Israel if the negotiations succeed. An Israeli official confirmed that there are feelers about a possible visit by Trump, but stressed that nothing concrete has been arranged and that plans remain up in the air. Mediators have been working in recent days to revive prospects for a ceasefire after the most recent round of talks ended in an impasse. Prime Minister Netanyahus government recently approved a plan to seize Gaza City in October, leaving a two-month window for potential breakthroughs in negotiations. Netanyahu reiterated this week that Israel will not accept any partial agreements, insisting on a comprehensive deal that secures the release of all hostages and ends the war under Israels terms. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A four-year-old girl has died after being left in a closed vehicle for an extended period amid extreme heat in southern Israel, the Magen David Adom (MDA) ambulance service confirmed, calling it a shocking case. The tragedy occurred near the Bedouin community of Ararat an-Naqab in the northern Negev. According to MDA, the child was transported to a clinic in the nearby town of Arara unconscious and without vital signs, suffering from severe heatstroke and burns on her body. Medics launched resuscitation efforts but were ultimately forced to declare her dead at the scene. Israel is currently in the grip of a severe heatwave, with temperatures in parts of the Negev soaring. Authorities have repeatedly warned of the dangers of leaving children in vehicles, even for short periods, as interior temperatures can rapidly become fatal. Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) I'm 25 and studying for a PhD. Over Christmas 2024, I was away from my rented flat for three weeks and when I returned, my British Gas electricity bill was huge which didn't make sense. I contacted British Gas and it transpired that my flat was wired up to the meter of a different flat in the building. I'd had been giving manual readings for an account that was not mine and paying for someone else's energy. The neighbours were also getting bills for my usage. Six months later, though, British Gas still hasn't billed me correctly. This is despite me complaining to the Energy Ombudsman and it upholding my complaint. British Gas previously said I owed more than 900 but now the figure is 630.83. I think I owe nothing, or very little. I feel I'm being treated like a criminal and threatened with marks on my credit score, even though this wasn't my fault. Can you help? K.N, Cardiff Crossed wires: This reader and her neighbour were charged for each other's energy use Helen Crane, This is Money's consumer champion, replies: With the memory of 2022's energy price surge still fresh in our minds, not being in control of your own electric bill is a scary prospect. As you only moved in last year, you have no idea when the meters were wrongly wired up. This could have been going on for years and affected any number of previous residents, before your extended period away caused you to notice. It's also concerning that because of this mistake, your neighbours, who you didn't know well, could see when you typically use energy through their account. Both properties were on a smart meter, which allows minute-by-minute breakdown - though you didn't have the corresponding in-home display when you moved in so you assumed you were on an old-style meter. That data could let them know when you are likely to be at home or not, which could raise a security risk. I have to say I admire your tenacity. You have spent months fighting British Gas on this, making a complaint to the Ombudsman and then appealing that complaint because, while it was upheld, you still didn't think your bill was right. This included painstakingly going through your meter readings and making calculations, so you could compare the bills you were being sent with what you thought you actually owed. And this is all at the same time as studying for a PhD. This is quite the saga, so I won't give the full catalogue of errors but will share some highlights - or rather, lowlights. Firstly, British Gas said it wasn't possible to swap yours and your neighbours' usage records, even though you were both customers. Instead, you were asked to take readings for seven days to determine what your bill should be for the past year. CRANE ON THE CASE Our weekly column sees This is Money consumer expert Helen Crane tackle reader problems and shine the light on companies doing both good and bad. Want her to investigate a problem, or do you want to praise a firm for going that extra mile? Get in touch: helen.crane@thisismoney.co.uk This was in early January, and you raised concerns that this was one of the coldest weeks of the year. British Gas said it would take this into account, but based on future bills you received, don't think it did. A year is the maximum amount of time for which energy companies can 'back-bill' a customer for, if they weren't previously billed correctly for it. You were then told your smart meter wasn't working and an appointment was made to send someone to fix it, but this was subsequently cancelled as British Gas decided it was working, but that the readings were still being sent to the other flat's account. You then got a bill in early February, two weeks later than you were told it would arrive. However, this was for a period of more than a year which isn't allowed. You questioned this, then say British Gas cancelled the bill and promised to send another. This still hadn't happened by 11 March, so you called again and made a complaint. On 20 March, after eight weeks trying to resolve this, you opened a case with the Energy Ombudsman - a cumbersome in the middle of your PhD work. On 8 April, you received a bill - but you say it appeared to still be charging you for some of your neighbour's usage. You called British Gas, but it said it couldn't speak to you as you had engaged the Ombudsman. A couple of weeks later, the Ombudsman upheld your complaint, telling British Gas to do four things: apologise; make a 200 goodwill payment; back-bill you at a rate of 14.7 units per day, and amend your opening meter reading, from when you moved in, to 5185. You wanted to speak to the Ombudsman to discuss this, before deciding whether to appeal. But before you could, you received a text from British Gas saying you had accepted the recommendation - which you had not - and your complaint was closed. Unresolved: British Gas said it had re-billed K.N based on data from her meter, but she was still convinced it wasn't right The next day, you received a text from British Gas demanding a payment of 730. It said you could arrange a payment plan but this would mean a mark on your credit file. You complained, and were given a further 100 compensation because this person had the wrong information. In the end, British Gas did all of the things the Ombudsman asked, except from amending the starting reading. It said it would not do this, as you had by then decided to appeal the Ombudsman decision and things could change. You still didn't feel it was sorted. You still didn't receive an accurate bill, and believed you were still being charged for more than 12 months. You also felt the units-per-day reading was unfair, as it was taken in freezing January - and that British Gas still hadn't addressed your concerns about your data security being breached by the mix-up. This is when you contacted me. At this time, the amount British Gas was asking for was 630.83. You didn't know how British Gas arrived at this figure, and said it wouldn't explain. You showed me the calculations you had run based on your own usage, and the unit rate on your bill, minus the payments you had already made. You were convinced you owed 369.67, which minus the 300 in goodwill payments you had been promised, would leave you owing less than 70. But when I asked British Gas to look into these, it said you owed 620.48 - and that was after taking off the money from the goodwill credits. This was partly because of it had not changed the starting meter reading, but I thought it was still charging you for a period beyond what was allowed under back-billing. Then, the Ombudsman came through with its decision. It said it had worked out exactly what you could be back-billed, based on your actual usage as recorded by the smart meter. It also clarified the exact date before which you couldn't be back-billed, which was in March 2024. You recently received your final bill, which showed you owed British Gas 51.24. A huge difference from the 934 it initially claimed - and even less than your calculations which put it at about 70. It seems you were right all along - and I'm glad you stuck firmly to your guns. A spokesman for British Gas said: 'We understand that this has been a frustrating time for K.N, which stemmed from the meter at her property being incorrectly registered. 'Following her appeal to the Energy Ombudsman we have implemented the required actions, apologised to [her] for her experience, and have applied a gesture of goodwill to her account.' As a student, you say you simply couldn't afford to pay hundreds of pounds and felt you had no option but to keep complaining, and ultimately go to the Ombudsman and then to appeal. However, that takes tenacity, and I really do applaud you for persevering. The boss of Rolls-Royce has said the FTSE 100 engineering giant could become the UKs biggest listed company. And chief executive Tufan Erginbilgic yesterday backed London as he dismissed the idea that Rolls might follow other major firms by switching its listing to New York. FTSE heavyweights AstraZeneca and Shell have been flirting with a switch in search of higher valuations in what would be a hammer blow for the London Stock Exchange. The UKs stock market has suffered an exodus of other firms in recent years, with fintech darling Wise the latest to say it will head across the Atlantic. Erginbilgic said: Its not in our plan. I dont agree with the idea you can only perform in the US. Thats not true and hopefully we have demonstrated that. He has overseen a tenfold increase in the share price since taking over in 2023 earning him the nickname Turbo Tufan but his comments point to an ambition to go still further. Ambitious: Tufan Erginbilgic has said the FTSE 100 engineering giant could become the UKs biggest listed company That would mark an even more stunning turnaround for a company nearly destroyed by the pandemic, when international travel was halted, killing demand for its aeroplane engines. Now, Erginbilgic believes that plans to power the explosive boom in artificial intelligence (AI) technology using Rolls nuclear reactors could help it become the most valuable stock on the FTSE 100 index. It has been boosted by contracts to build mini-nuclear reactors, winning the contract for Britains Small Modular Reactor programme and also has an agreement with the Czech government. There is no private company in the world with the nuclear capability we have. If we are not market leader globally, we did something wrong, Erginbilgic told the BBC. I believe the growth potential we created... in our existing business and our new businesses, actually, yes we have that potential [to become the most valuable in the FTSE 100]. Rolls is the sixth-largest company with a market capitalisation of 92bn, behind Astra, HSBC, Shell, Unilever and BAT. Erginbilgic has been credited with turning the 119-year-old companys fortunes around Taking the helm at the start of 2023, former BP executive Erginbilgic vowed to quadruple profits and dramatically fatten margins at its main civil aerospace unit, which has been boosted by the recovery of the travel industry. The firm is also set to benefit from increased defence spending as Europe races to rearm. Susannah Streeter, analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: The ambition to become the Footsies biggest company is a vote of confidence in the London market and will be welcomed, given the recent exodus. Fresnillo (LON:FRES Get Free Report) had its price objective hoisted by equities research analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from GBX 1,200 to GBX 1,400 in a research report issued on Monday, August 11th, Marketbeat.com reports. The brokerage presently has a sector perform rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas price objective points to a potential downside of 15.55% from the companys previous close. Several other research analysts have also recently commented on FRES. Citigroup raised their target price on shares of Fresnillo from GBX 1,300 to GBX 1,700 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price target on shares of Fresnillo from GBX 1,850 to GBX 2,100 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Canaccord Genuity Group increased their price target on shares of Fresnillo from GBX 805 to GBX 980 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, April 24th. Finally, Berenberg Bank increased their price target on shares of Fresnillo from GBX 1,620 to GBX 1,700 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 1,576. Get Fresnillo alerts: Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Fresnillo Fresnillo Price Performance About Fresnillo FRES traded down GBX 38.18 on Monday, reaching GBX 1,657.82. The company had a trading volume of 4,711,178 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,512,153. The company has a fifty day moving average of GBX 1,491.61 and a 200-day moving average of GBX 1,138.60. The company has a market capitalization of 15.31 billion, a P/E ratio of 61.79, a PEG ratio of -1.58 and a beta of 0.15. The company has a current ratio of 5.88, a quick ratio of 3.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 23.55. Fresnillo has a one year low of GBX 502 and a one year high of GBX 1,769.16. (Get Free Report) Fresnillo plc is the worlds largest silver producer and Mexicos largest gold producer, listed on the London and Mexican stock exchanges. The Group seeks to create value for stakeholders across precious metal cycles, focusing on high-potential silver and gold projects that can be developed into low cost, world-class mines. Following a decade of consistent and successful progress, the Group is now focused on consolidating its growth and advancing its pipeline in order to deliver further growth in the years ahead. See Also Receive News & Ratings for Fresnillo Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Fresnillo and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Chartwell Retirement Residences (TSE:CSH.UN Free Report) had its price target boosted by Desjardins from C$21.00 to C$22.00 in a research note published on Monday,BayStreet.CA reports. They currently have a buy rating on the stock. Other equities research analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. TD Securities boosted their price objective on shares of Chartwell Retirement Residences from C$20.00 to C$21.00 in a research report on Monday, May 12th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of Chartwell Retirement Residences from C$19.00 to C$21.00 in a research report on Monday, May 12th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$21.07. Get Chartwell Retirement Residences alerts: Read Our Latest Analysis on CSH.UN Chartwell Retirement Residences Price Performance Chartwell Retirement Residences Announces Dividend Chartwell Retirement Residences stock opened at C$18.16 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of C$4.93 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -106.82 and a beta of 1.12. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 192.20, a current ratio of 0.43 and a quick ratio of 0.07. Chartwell Retirement Residences has a 1 year low of C$14.27 and a 1 year high of C$18.79. The firm has a 50-day moving average of C$18.08 and a two-hundred day moving average of C$17.33. The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 15th. Investors of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a $0.051 dividend. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 3.4%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, July 31st. Chartwell Retirement Residencess payout ratio is presently -358.82%. Chartwell Retirement Residences Company Profile (Get Free Report) Chartwell Retirement Residences is an unincorporated open-ended trust. The company is engaged in the ownership, operation, and management of retirement and long-term care communities in Canada. It operates its retirement and long-term care facilities separately. The Retirement Operations segment consists of communities that the company owns and operates in Canada. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for Chartwell Retirement Residences Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Chartwell Retirement Residences and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in Lennar Corporation (NYSE:LEN Free Report) in the 1st quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm acquired 30,882 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $3,545,000. Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Secured Retirement Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Lennar in the first quarter valued at about $926,000. Marks Group Wealth Management Inc lifted its stake in shares of Lennar by 15.4% in the first quarter. Marks Group Wealth Management Inc now owns 2,183 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $251,000 after purchasing an additional 292 shares during the period. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC lifted its stake in shares of Lennar by 2.1% in the first quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 208,763 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $23,962,000 after purchasing an additional 4,332 shares during the period. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in shares of Lennar by 24.8% in the first quarter. Turtle Creek Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 42,041 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $4,825,000 after purchasing an additional 8,357 shares during the period. Finally, Brown Advisory Inc. raised its position in Lennar by 5.4% during the first quarter. Brown Advisory Inc. now owns 6,965 shares of the construction companys stock worth $799,000 after acquiring an additional 354 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.10% of the companys stock. Get Lennar alerts: Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth A number of equities analysts have issued reports on LEN shares. Zelman & Associates cut shares of Lennar from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their target price on shares of Lennar from $122.00 to $98.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. UBS Group cut their target price on shares of Lennar from $164.00 to $146.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. Barclays cut their target price on shares of Lennar from $110.00 to $95.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. Finally, Wedbush restated a neutral rating and set a $130.00 target price on shares of Lennar in a research report on Wednesday, June 18th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating, two have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Lennar currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $128.85. Lennar Price Performance Lennar stock opened at $130.94 on Thursday. Lennar Corporation has a 1 year low of $98.42 and a 1 year high of $193.80. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $113.09 and a 200 day moving average price of $114.29. The company has a market cap of $33.91 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.83, a PEG ratio of 5.28 and a beta of 1.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a quick ratio of 0.49 and a current ratio of 3.65. Lennar (NYSE:LEN Get Free Report) last released its 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). Lennar had a net margin of 9.20% and a return on equity of 12.73%. The company had revenue of $8.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.21 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $3.45 earnings per share. Lennars revenue for the quarter was down 4.4% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts predict that Lennar Corporation will post 12.48 earnings per share for the current year. Lennar Announces Dividend The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, July 18th. Investors of record on Thursday, July 3rd were issued a $0.50 dividend. This represents a $2.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, July 3rd. Lennars payout ratio is presently 16.54%. About Lennar (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. Featured Articles Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LEN? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Lennar Corporation (NYSE:LEN Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Lennar Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Lennar and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM Free Report) (TSE:BAM.A) had its price target lifted by Jefferies Financial Group from $55.00 to $62.00 in a research report sent to investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a hold rating on the financial services providers stock. Several other research firms have also recently weighed in on BAM. National Bank Financial initiated coverage on Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Tuesday, July 29th. They issued an outperform rating and a $71.00 price objective on the stock. Wall Street Zen raised Brookfield Asset Management from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 15th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price objective on Brookfield Asset Management from $51.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price objective on Brookfield Asset Management from $55.00 to $57.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Friday, July 11th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reissued a hold rating and issued a $58.00 price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $63.33. Get Brookfield Asset Management alerts: View Our Latest Report on Brookfield Asset Management Brookfield Asset Management Stock Down 0.3% Brookfield Asset Management Announces Dividend Shares of NYSE:BAM opened at $62.49 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $100.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.94, a PEG ratio of 2.26 and a beta of 1.44. The company has a quick ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 1.25 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. Brookfield Asset Management has a 12-month low of $39.19 and a 12-month high of $64.10. The businesss 50 day moving average is $58.13 and its 200 day moving average is $55.14. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 29th will be issued a $0.4375 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 29th. This represents a $1.75 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.8%. Brookfield Asset Managements dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 117.45%. Institutional Investors Weigh In On Brookfield Asset Management Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Capula Management Ltd lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 33.3% in the 2nd quarter. Capula Management Ltd now owns 159,608 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $8,823,000 after purchasing an additional 39,898 shares during the period. SageView Advisory Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $216,000. Brown Advisory Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 3.3% in the 2nd quarter. Brown Advisory Inc. now owns 78,322 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,330,000 after purchasing an additional 2,509 shares during the period. Amundi lifted its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 57.6% in the 2nd quarter. Amundi now owns 475,199 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $26,393,000 after purchasing an additional 173,673 shares during the period. Finally, Crescent Grove Advisors LLC bought a new position in Brookfield Asset Management during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $219,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.41% of the companys stock. About Brookfield Asset Management (Get Free Report) Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. is a real estate investment firm specializing in alternative asset management services. Its renewable power and transition business includes the operates in the hydroelectric, wind, solar, distributed generation, and sustainable solution sector. The company's infrastructure business engages in the utilities, transport, midstream, and data infrastructure sectors. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Brookfield Asset Management Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Brookfield Asset Management and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS Get Free Report) has earned an average rating of Hold from the thirty brokerages that are covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, sixteen have given a hold rating, eleven have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $112.8125. Several research firms have commented on UPS. Barclays dropped their target price on shares of United Parcel Service from $90.00 to $80.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. Wall Street Zen cut shares of United Parcel Service from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, May 7th. UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of United Parcel Service from $124.00 to $118.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Hsbc Global Res downgraded shares of United Parcel Service from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, May 1st. Finally, Susquehanna reduced their target price on shares of United Parcel Service from $110.00 to $100.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Get United Parcel Service alerts: Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on UPS United Parcel Service Stock Up 0.8% UPS stock opened at $88.17 on Thursday. United Parcel Service has a twelve month low of $84.28 and a twelve month high of $145.01. The stocks 50 day moving average is $97.59 and its 200-day moving average is $103.68. The company has a quick ratio of 1.32, a current ratio of 1.32 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.51. The firm has a market capitalization of $74.66 billion, a PE ratio of 13.12, a P/E/G ratio of 1.59 and a beta of 1.12. United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, July 29th. The transportation company reported $1.55 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.56 by ($0.01). United Parcel Service had a return on equity of 39.61% and a net margin of 6.34%. The firm had revenue of $21.20 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.90 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.79 EPS. United Parcel Services quarterly revenue was down 2.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts expect that United Parcel Service will post 7.95 EPS for the current fiscal year. United Parcel Service Announces Dividend The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, September 4th. Stockholders of record on Monday, August 18th will be issued a $1.64 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, August 18th. This represents a $6.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.4%. United Parcel Services dividend payout ratio is presently 97.62%. Insiders Place Their Bets In related news, CEO Carol B. Tome purchased 11,682 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 1st. The shares were purchased at an average price of $85.67 per share, with a total value of $1,000,796.94. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer directly owned 24,718 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,117,591.06. This represents a 89.61% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director William R. Johnson purchased 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, July 31st. The stock was bought at an average cost of $86.50 per share, for a total transaction of $432,500.00. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 10,160 shares in the company, valued at approximately $878,840. The trade was a 96.90% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 0.13% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders. Institutional Investors Weigh In On United Parcel Service Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Pinney & Scofield Inc. bought a new stake in shares of United Parcel Service in the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. Fourth Dimension Wealth LLC bought a new stake in shares of United Parcel Service in the 4th quarter worth approximately $28,000. Graybill Wealth Management LTD. bought a new stake in shares of United Parcel Service in the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Marshall & Sterling Wealth Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of United Parcel Service in the 4th quarter worth approximately $31,000. Finally, Citizens National Bank Trust Department lifted its holdings in shares of United Parcel Service by 525.0% in the 1st quarter. Citizens National Bank Trust Department now owns 250 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 210 shares during the last quarter. 60.26% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. About United Parcel Service (Get Free Report) United Parcel Service, Inc, a package delivery company, provides transportation and delivery, distribution, contract logistics, ocean freight, airfreight, customs brokerage, and insurance services. It operates through two segments, U.S. Domestic Package and International Package. The U.S. Domestic Package segment offers time-definite delivery of express letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight through air and ground services in the United States. See Also Receive News & Ratings for United Parcel Service Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for United Parcel Service and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. UWM Holdings Corporation (NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report) CEO Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.58, for a total transaction of $1,832,164.88. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 1,898,632 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,695,734.56. The trade was a 17.40% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Ishbia Mat also recently made the following trade(s): Get UWM alerts: On Friday, August 8th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.58, for a total transaction of $1,832,164.88. On Wednesday, August 6th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.25, for a total transaction of $1,700,153.00. On Monday, August 4th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.25, for a total transaction of $1,700,153.00. On Friday, August 1st, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.19, for a total transaction of $1,676,150.84. On Wednesday, July 30th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.10, for a total transaction of $1,640,147.60. On Monday, July 28th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.24, for a total transaction of $1,696,152.64. On Friday, July 25th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.23, for a total transaction of $1,692,152.28. On Wednesday, July 23rd, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.65, for a total transaction of $1,860,167.40. On Monday, July 21st, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.40, for a total transaction of $1,760,158.40. On Friday, July 18th, Ishbia Mat sold 400,036 shares of UWM stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $4.20, for a total transaction of $1,680,151.20. UWM Price Performance Shares of NYSE UWMC opened at $5.61 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $8.97 billion, a PE ratio of -112.20 and a beta of 1.70. The company has a current ratio of 1.55, a quick ratio of 1.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.85. UWM Holdings Corporation has a 1-year low of $3.80 and a 1-year high of $9.74. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $4.28 and a 200 day moving average price of $4.94. UWM Announces Dividend UWM ( NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, August 7th. The company reported $0.16 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.06 by $0.10. UWM had a net margin of 0.48% and a negative return on equity of 5.56%. The firm had revenue of $758.70 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $621.60 million. Research analysts predict that UWM Holdings Corporation will post 0.2 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, October 9th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, September 18th will be paid a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 7.1%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, September 18th. UWMs dividend payout ratio is currently -800.00%. Hedge Funds Weigh In On UWM A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of UWMC. Sei Investments Co. acquired a new position in shares of UWM during the 4th quarter worth about $82,000. LPL Financial LLC boosted its stake in shares of UWM by 19.7% during the 4th quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 255,171 shares of the companys stock worth $1,498,000 after buying an additional 42,042 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. boosted its stake in shares of UWM by 469.0% during the 4th quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 223,598 shares of the companys stock worth $1,313,000 after buying an additional 184,299 shares during the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN boosted its stake in shares of UWM by 9.9% during the 4th quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 64,970 shares of the companys stock worth $381,000 after buying an additional 5,849 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bank of Nova Scotia boosted its stake in shares of UWM by 51.0% during the 4th quarter. Bank of Nova Scotia now owns 621,392 shares of the companys stock worth $3,648,000 after buying an additional 209,903 shares during the last quarter. 53.59% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on UWMC shares. Barclays raised shares of UWM from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $6.00 price target for the company in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price target on shares of UWM from $6.00 to $5.25 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, July 2nd. UBS Group raised shares of UWM from a sell rating to a neutral rating and reduced their target price for the stock from $4.75 to $4.50 in a research note on Wednesday, April 16th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of UWM from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, August 9th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered shares of UWM from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and reduced their target price for the stock from $6.50 to $4.50 in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $5.54. Check Out Our Latest Report on UWM UWM Company Profile (Get Free Report) UWM Holdings Corporation engages in the residential mortgage lending business in the United States. The company offers mortgage loans through wholesale channel. It originates primarily conforming and government loans. UWM Holdings Corporation was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Pontiac, Michigan. Recommended Stories Receive News & Ratings for UWM Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for UWM and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. By Josh Kosman Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan may be a marked man in the White House and not just because his bank would not take President Trumps money, sources said. Trump on August 7 signed an executive order mandating banking regulators to investigate whether banks have discriminated against conservatives and certain industries. President Trump is targeting Brian Moynihan The President said August 5 on CNBCs Squawk Box that BofA and JPMorgan would not accept his deposits after his first term in office. But there may be more to the story. Trump sung the same tune Jan. 23 with Moynihan right next to him on a World Economic Forum stage. I hope you start opening your bank to conservatives, because many conservatives complain that the banks are not allowing them to do business within the bank, and that included a place called Bank of America, the President said. I hope youre going to open your banks to conservatives, because what youre doing is wrong. He was likely referring to when BofA stopped banking private prison company GEO Group, BofA insiders said. Photo by Ye Jinghan on Unsplash This is what Trump was pissed about, a BofA source said. Trump needs GEO. BofA in June 2019 was the last of the big banks to cut off future funding for private prison companies including GEO. They did not want to be the last bank standing, a source with direct knowledge of the situation said. GEO now processes more than one-third of the people ICE detains, 20,000 beds, at 21 facilities, according to GEO. The firm also owns prisons and jails. But back in 2019 there was a big fight within the bank whether to stop doing more business with GEO after one of GEOs other big lenders JPMorgan in March 2019 said it would no longer fund private prisons. A GEO facility according to the companys website Wells Fargo was also pulling back. BofA Vice Chair Anne Finucane argued for staying the course and was very vocal about it, a source said, causing some at the bank to panic, the source said. There were meetings between top bank executives where what to do about lending to private prisons was fiercely debated. Ultimately, BofAs Global Head of ESG Andrew Plepler had the final word and BoA stopped future funding of private prisons, the BofA source said. The private sector is attempting to respond to public policy and government needs and demands in the absence of long standing and widely recognized reforms needed in criminal justice and immigration policies, BofA said in a June 2019 statement to USA Today. Lacking further legal and policy clarity, and in recognition of the concerns of our employees and stakeholders in the communities we serve, it is our intention to exit these relationships. Boston Partners lowered its position in shares of Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Free Report) by 14.3% in the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,341,773 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 223,578 shares during the quarter. Boston Partners owned 1.49% of Packaging Corporation of America worth $265,658,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC. Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Sowell Financial Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of Packaging Corporation of America during the 1st quarter worth $309,000. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC grew its stake in shares of Packaging Corporation of America by 5.6% during the 1st quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 28,639 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $5,671,000 after purchasing an additional 1,531 shares during the period. Brookstone Capital Management grew its stake in Packaging Corporation of America by 718.0% in the 1st quarter. Brookstone Capital Management now owns 10,086 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,997,000 after acquiring an additional 8,853 shares during the last quarter. First United Bank & Trust acquired a new stake in Packaging Corporation of America in the 1st quarter valued at about $289,000. Finally, Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. grew its stake in Packaging Corporation of America by 11.3% in the 1st quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 250,197 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $49,544,000 after acquiring an additional 25,471 shares during the last quarter. 89.78% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Packaging Corporation of America alerts: Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades A number of equities research analysts recently commented on PKG shares. Citigroup increased their price objective on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $197.00 to $214.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, July 25th. UBS Group increased their price objective on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $210.00 to $220.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 29th. Jefferies Financial Group cut shares of Packaging Corporation of America from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their price objective for the company from $245.00 to $205.00 in a research note on Monday, June 16th. Truist Financial lowered their price objective on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $239.00 to $238.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, July 25th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Packaging Corporation of America from $180.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, July 10th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Packaging Corporation of America presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $215.40. Packaging Corporation of America Price Performance Packaging Corporation of America stock opened at $200.73 on Thursday. Packaging Corporation of America has a 12-month low of $172.71 and a 12-month high of $250.82. The stock has a market capitalization of $18.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.03, a P/E/G ratio of 2.34 and a beta of 0.85. The firms 50-day moving average is $196.97 and its two-hundred day moving average is $197.19. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 3.54 and a quick ratio of 2.32. Packaging Corporation of America (NYSE:PKG Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, July 23rd. The industrial products company reported $2.48 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.44 by $0.04. Packaging Corporation of America had a net margin of 10.47% and a return on equity of 20.08%. The company had revenue of $2.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.18 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $2.20 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts predict that Packaging Corporation of America will post 10.44 earnings per share for the current year. Packaging Corporation of America Profile (Free Report) Packaging Corporation of America engages in the production of container products. It operates through the following segments: Packaging, Paper, and Corporate and Other. The Packaging segment offers a variety of corrugated packaging products, such as conventional shipping containers. The Paper segment manufactures and sells a range of papers, including communication-based papers, and pressure sensitive papers. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Packaging Corporation of America Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Packaging Corporation of America and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Vestmark Advisory Solutions Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF (BATS:SMMD Free Report) during the first quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund purchased 354,819 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $22,190,000. A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF by 209.1% during the 4th quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 34,637 shares of the companys stock worth $2,355,000 after buying an additional 23,431 shares during the period. Berger Financial Group Inc increased its stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF by 3.0% during the 4th quarter. Berger Financial Group Inc now owns 163,831 shares of the companys stock worth $11,140,000 after buying an additional 4,776 shares during the period. MML Investors Services LLC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF by 4.4% during the 4th quarter. MML Investors Services LLC now owns 30,980 shares of the companys stock worth $2,107,000 after buying an additional 1,307 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF by 2.0% during the 1st quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 55,264 shares of the companys stock worth $3,456,000 after buying an additional 1,063 shares during the period. Finally, CWA Asset Management Group LLC increased its stake in iShares Russell 2500 ETF by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC now owns 142,924 shares of the companys stock worth $8,938,000 after buying an additional 4,829 shares during the period. Get iShares Russell 2500 ETF alerts: iShares Russell 2500 ETF Trading Up 5.2% Shares of BATS:SMMD opened at $71.84 on Thursday. iShares Russell 2500 ETF has a 52 week low of $53.81 and a 52 week high of $74.66. The companys 50 day moving average is $68.46 and its two-hundred day moving average is $65.72. The company has a market cap of $1.54 billion, a PE ratio of 19.95 and a beta of 1.09. About iShares Russell 2500 ETF The iShares Russell 2500 ETF (SMMD) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the Russell 2500 index, a market-cap-weighted index of US companies ranked 501-3,000 by market cap. SMMD was launched on Jul 6, 2017 and is managed by BlackRock. See Also Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SMMD? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for iShares Russell 2500 ETF (BATS:SMMD Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for iShares Russell 2500 ETF Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for iShares Russell 2500 ETF and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE:AIT Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY 2026 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 10.000-10.75 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 9.951. The company issued revenue guidance of $4.7 billion-$4.9 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $4.5 billion. Applied Industrial Technologies Trading Up 1.9% Shares of Applied Industrial Technologies stock opened at $275.76 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 3.57 and a quick ratio of 2.51. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $249.66 and its 200-day simple moving average is $240.18. The stock has a market cap of $10.50 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.69, a P/E/G ratio of 3.30 and a beta of 0.94. Applied Industrial Technologies has a 1-year low of $189.18 and a 1-year high of $282.98. Get Applied Industrial Technologies alerts: Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE:AIT Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, August 14th. The industrial products company reported $2.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.60 by $0.20. Applied Industrial Technologies had a return on equity of 22.01% and a net margin of 8.64%. Analysts predict that Applied Industrial Technologies will post 9.9 EPS for the current fiscal year. Applied Industrial Technologies Dividend Announcement The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, August 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.46 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. This represents a $1.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.7%. Applied Industrial Technologiess dividend payout ratio is 18.47%. Applied Industrial Technologies announced that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock repurchase program on Thursday, May 1st that allows the company to buyback 1,500,000 outstanding shares. This buyback authorization allows the industrial products company to purchase shares of its stock through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are generally an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued. Analyst Ratings Changes AIT has been the topic of several analyst reports. Loop Capital reduced their price objective on Applied Industrial Technologies from $320.00 to $290.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 17th. Raymond James Financial reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $250.00 price target (down previously from $265.00) on shares of Applied Industrial Technologies in a research report on Friday, May 2nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised Applied Industrial Technologies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, July 26th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $285.00. Read Our Latest Stock Report on Applied Industrial Technologies Hedge Funds Weigh In On Applied Industrial Technologies A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its position in Applied Industrial Technologies by 4.1% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 381,187 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $85,897,000 after acquiring an additional 14,926 shares during the last quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC grew its position in Applied Industrial Technologies by 12.4% in the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 98,348 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $22,162,000 after buying an additional 10,863 shares during the last quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System increased its stake in shares of Applied Industrial Technologies by 2.9% during the second quarter. California Public Employees Retirement System now owns 72,549 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $16,864,000 after acquiring an additional 2,044 shares during the period. Cerity Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Applied Industrial Technologies by 185.1% during the 2nd quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 7,082 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,646,000 after buying an additional 4,598 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership acquired a new stake in Applied Industrial Technologies in the second quarter valued at $1,421,000. 93.52% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Applied Industrial Technologies Company Profile (Get Free Report) Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc distributes industrial motion, power, control, and automation technology solutions in North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. It operates in two segments, Service Center Based Distribution, and Engineered Solutions. The company distributes bearings, power transmission products, engineered fluid power components and systems, specialty flow control solutions, advanced automation products, industrial rubber products, linear motion components, automation solutions, tools, safety products, oilfield supplies, and other industrial and maintenance supplies; and motors, belting, drives, couplings, pumps, hydraulic and pneumatic components, filtration supplies, valves, fittings, process instrumentation, actuators, and hoses, filtration supplies, as well as other related supplies for general operational needs of customers' machinery and equipment. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Applied Industrial Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Applied Industrial Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Harfst & Associates Inc. bought a new stake in Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL Free Report) during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm bought 6,458 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $718,000. Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. NorthRock Partners LLC raised its holdings in Aflac by 1.5% in the first quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC now owns 6,519 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $725,000 after acquiring an additional 95 shares in the last quarter. Valued Wealth Advisors LLC raised its holdings in Aflac by 24.4% in the first quarter. Valued Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 495 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $55,000 after acquiring an additional 97 shares in the last quarter. Phillips Wealth Planners LLC raised its holdings in Aflac by 1.5% in the first quarter. Phillips Wealth Planners LLC now owns 6,653 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $711,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Optas LLC raised its holdings in Aflac by 3.5% in the first quarter. Optas LLC now owns 2,949 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $328,000 after acquiring an additional 101 shares in the last quarter. Finally, D.A. Davidson & CO. raised its holdings in Aflac by 0.4% in the first quarter. D.A. Davidson & CO. now owns 30,879 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,433,000 after acquiring an additional 113 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 67.44% of the companys stock. Get Aflac alerts: Insider Buying and Selling In related news, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 37,000 shares of Aflac stock in a transaction on Tuesday, May 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $105.59, for a total value of $3,906,830.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 70,992 shares in the company, valued at $7,496,045.28. This trade represents a 34.26% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 1,000 shares of Aflac stock in a transaction on Friday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $102.57, for a total transaction of $102,570.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 25,105 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,575,019.85. This trade represents a 3.83% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock. Aflac Stock Performance Shares of AFL opened at $105.62 on Thursday. 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 firm has a market cap of $56.49 billion, a PE ratio of 23.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.91 and a beta of 0.83. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $102.46 and its 200-day simple moving average is $104.89. Aflac Incorporated has a 12-month low of $96.95 and a 12-month high of $115.50. Aflac (NYSE:AFL Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, August 5th. The financial services provider reported $1.78 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.71 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $4.16 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.30 billion. Aflac had a net margin of 15.32% and a return on equity of 15.08%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 19.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $1.83 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.88 EPS for the current year. Aflac declared that its board has authorized a share repurchase plan on Tuesday, August 12th that permits the company to repurchase 100,000,000 outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization permits the financial services provider to repurchase shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are generally an indication that the companys board of directors believes its stock is undervalued. Aflac Dividend Announcement The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, September 2nd. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, August 20th will be given a dividend of $0.58 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, August 20th. This represents a $2.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.2%. Aflacs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 52.61%. Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades Several analysts recently weighed in on AFL shares. Barclays set a $98.00 target price on shares of Aflac and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Monday, July 7th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their target price on shares of Aflac from $96.00 to $100.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, July 8th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Aflac from $105.00 to $107.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Aflac from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 9th. Finally, UBS Group cut their price objective on shares of Aflac from $114.00 to $111.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Aflac presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $108.23. Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on AFL Aflac Company Profile (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. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AFL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Aflac Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Aflac and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. NFP Retirement Inc. cut its stake in shares of The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA Free Report) by 4.0% in the first quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 2,115 shares of the aircraft producers stock after selling 88 shares during the period. NFP Retirement Inc.s holdings in Boeing were worth $361,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. A number of other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Gulf International Bank UK Ltd raised its position in Boeing by 10.5% during the first quarter. Gulf International Bank UK Ltd now owns 1,690 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $288,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares during the period. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd acquired a new position in Boeing during the first quarter worth $521,000. National Pension Service raised its position in Boeing by 19.6% during the first quarter. National Pension Service now owns 1,333,131 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $227,365,000 after acquiring an additional 218,049 shares during the period. Russell Investments Group Ltd. raised its position in Boeing by 10.0% during the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 133,985 shares of the aircraft producers stock worth $22,857,000 after acquiring an additional 12,200 shares during the period. Finally, Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd acquired a new position in Boeing during the first quarter worth $853,000. 64.82% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Boeing alerts: Boeing Price Performance Shares of BA stock opened at $233.32 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $176.43 billion, a PE ratio of -14.13 and a beta of 1.48. The company has a 50-day moving average of $218.48 and a two-hundred day moving average of $191.69. The Boeing Company has a 1-year low of $128.88 and a 1-year high of $242.69. Analysts Set New Price Targets Boeing ( NYSE:BA Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, July 29th. The aircraft producer reported ($1.24) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.92) by ($0.32). The business had revenue of $22.75 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $20.13 billion. Boeings revenue for the quarter was up 34.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted ($2.90) earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that The Boeing Company will post -2.58 EPS for the current fiscal year. A number of equities analysts have weighed in on BA shares. Sanford C. Bernstein restated an outperform rating on shares of Boeing in a research report on Monday, July 14th. KGI Securities upgraded shares of Boeing from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $250.00 target price on shares of Boeing in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Boeing from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Saturday, May 17th. Finally, Redburn Atlantic upgraded shares of Boeing from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating and increased their target price for the company from $180.00 to $275.00 in a research report on Friday, June 27th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have issued a hold rating, seventeen have assigned a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Boeing currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $228.90. Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Boeing Insiders Place Their Bets In other Boeing news, EVP David Christopher Raymond sold 3,771 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $229.94, for a total transaction of $867,103.74. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 35,873 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,248,637.62. This trade represents a 9.51% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 0.09% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders. Boeing Company Profile (Free Report) The Boeing Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight and launch systems, and services worldwide. The company operates through Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space & Security; and Global Services segments. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Boeing Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Boeing and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Cookson Peirce & Co. Inc. raised its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report) by 17.3% during the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 14,258 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 2,100 shares during the period. Cookson Peirce & Co. Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $11,776,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Knightsbridge Asset Management LLC increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 1.9% during the 4th quarter. Knightsbridge Asset Management LLC now owns 813 shares of the companys stock valued at $628,000 after buying an additional 15 shares during the period. LS Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 1.7% during the 1st quarter. LS Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,340 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,933,000 after buying an additional 40 shares during the period. Prism Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in Eli Lilly and Company during the 1st quarter valued at about $207,000. CSM Advisors LLC increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 30.6% during the 4th quarter. CSM Advisors LLC now owns 1,045 shares of the companys stock valued at $807,000 after buying an additional 245 shares during the period. Finally, Hemington Wealth Management increased its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 14.4% during the 1st quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 985 shares of the companys stock valued at $813,000 after buying an additional 124 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.53% of the companys stock. Get Eli Lilly and Company alerts: Eli Lilly and Company Stock Performance LLY stock opened at $660.41 on Thursday. 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 stock has a market cap of $625.05 billion, a P/E ratio of 43.16, a P/E/G ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 0.44. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $767.52 and a 200 day simple moving average of $796.25. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52 week low of $623.78 and a 52 week high of $972.53. Eli Lilly and Company Dividend Announcement Eli Lilly and Company ( NYSE:LLY Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 7th. The company reported $6.31 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $5.59 by $0.72. The business had revenue of $15.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.40 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 25.91% and a return on equity of 92.72%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 37.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $3.92 earnings per share. Research analysts anticipate that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year. The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, September 10th. Investors of record on Friday, August 15th will be issued a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, August 15th. Eli Lilly and Companys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 39.22%. Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth Several equities analysts have commented on LLY shares. Wells Fargo & Company reissued an overweight rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Thursday, May 1st. Morgan Stanley restated an overweight rating and set a $1,135.00 price objective (up previously from $1,133.00) on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, July 10th. Hsbc Global Res lowered shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a strong-buy rating to a moderate sell rating in a research report on Monday, April 28th. Leerink Partners restated a market perform rating and set a $715.00 price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Guggenheim reduced their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $942.00 to $875.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have assigned a hold rating and sixteen have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $964.88. Read Our Latest Stock Report on LLY Insider Buying and Selling at Eli Lilly and Company In other Eli Lilly and Company news, Director Gabrielle Sulzberger bought 117 shares of Eli Lilly and Company stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 12th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $641.18 per share, for a total transaction of $75,018.06. Following the completion of the purchase, the director directly owned 2,703 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,733,109.54. The trade was a 4.52% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO David A. Ricks bought 1,632 shares of Eli Lilly and Company stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 12th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $644.77 per share, with a total value of $1,052,264.64. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer directly owned 546,601 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $352,431,926.77. The trade was a 0.30% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders acquired a total of 4,514 shares of company stock valued at $2,894,841 in the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock. Eli Lilly and Company Profile (Free Report) Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity. Read More Want to see what other hedge funds are holding LLY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY Free Report). Receive News & Ratings for Eli Lilly and Company Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Eli Lilly and Company and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter. Intel (INTC) shares are extending gains this morning after President Donald Trump said hes met with Lip-Bu Tan, the chipmakers current chief executive, and even called him a success. The presidents remarks are significant since they arrive only days after he called Tan highly CONFLICTED and demanded that he resigns immediately. More News from Barchart Intel stock hasnt done much for its investors this year. At the time of writing, it is up just 7.6% in the year to date. www.barchart.com What Trumps Reversal on Lip-Bu Tan Means for Intel Stock INTC shares are pushing to the upside following Trumps positive comment on Lip-Bu Tan as it effectively eliminates the risks of regulatory scrutiny and reputational damage. It reduces uncertainty around executive stability and signals renewed political support for Intels leadership and strategic direction. Additionally, the presidents social media post also suggests potential alignment between Intel and federal policy, especially on domestic chip manufacturing. In the long run, this government endorsement could help INTC reclaim its long-lost glory in the semiconductor industry, paving the way for a sharp rebound in Intel stock. Should You Buy INTC Shares at Current Levels? While Trumps reversal on Lip-Bu Tan is not an all-clear for INTC stock, its reasonable to consider owning it at current levels primarily because Intel is actually a matter of national security for the United States. Its the only leading-edge U.S.-based foundry. If we lose Intel, we have a serious national security risk, and then prices of TSMC will go up, Patrick Moorhead, the founder of Moor Insights, told CNBC in a recent interview. Note that Intel shares are currently trading at an attractive price-sales (P/S) ratio of 1.64x only. How Wall Street Recommends Playing Intel While the consensus rating on Intel shares currently sits at Hold only, Wall Street firms, nonetheless, forecast at least some upside in them from current levels. At the time of writing, analysts have a mean target of just over $23 on INTC stock, indicating potential for another 6% rally from here. www.barchart.com 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 (Reuters) -Valentino CEO Jacopo Venturini has stepped down, the Italian luxury house said on Thursday, leaving the Mayhoola- and Kering-backed business searching for a new leader to reboot sales and profit. Valentino reached a mutual agreement with Venturini to terminate his employment and board roles effective Wednesday as he "has decided to take a break for personal reasons", the brand said in an announcement seen by Reuters. Venturini, previously executive vice president of merchandising at Gucci, became CEO at Valentino in June 2020. Valentino had said in June that he was on sick leave, after media reports of his imminent departure from the business which reported declining revenue and profit last year. Valentino, founded in Rome in 1960 by Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti, is part-owned by French luxury conglomerate Kering, which bought a 30% stake in the label from Qatari fund Mayhoola for 1.7 billion euros in 2023, with a commitment to buy the rest by 2028. Mayhoola and Kering did not reply to Reuters requests for comment about Venturini's departure. Last month, Mayhoola denied a newspaper report that the two shareholders were considering selling Valentino. Kering declined to comment at the time. (Reporting by Helen Reid in London, Giulio Piovaccari in Milan and Gavin Jones in Rome; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) A fatal road crash has occurred in Limerick where one man tragically died and a woman has been seriously injured, Limerick Live has reported. Gardai are appealing for witnesses following the fatal road traffic collision which occurred on the N20 at Ballyouragan, Croom, County Limerick on Thursday morning, August 14. The collision occurred at approximately 7.25am and involved two cars. It is believed to have been been a head-on collision. READ MORE: RIP: Young mother of nine children including a four month old dies suddenly A garda spokesperson said a man, aged in his 40s, was pronounced deceased at the scene. "A woman, aged in her 30s, has been taken to hospital for treatment of injuries believed to be serious. No other injuries were reported," said a garda spokesperson. The road remains closed at this time to facilitate a technical examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Local diversions are in place. Gardai are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this collision to contact them. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area between 7am and 7.30am this morning are asked to make this footage available to investigating gardai. Anyone with information is asked to contact Henry Street Garda Station on 061 212400, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station. Eason stores in Wexford town, Gorey and Enniscorthy are carrying out a recall of a hugely popular toy amongst children. The Pop Mart branded 'the monsters big into energy' vinyl collectible dolls are at the centre of this notice, as stated by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). The product is being recalled as it cannot be confirmed as an authentic Pop Mart product. This may indicate that the items are unsafe. READ MORE: Ever wanted to be in the Late Late Show audience? RTE opens applications for new season The bar code is 6931571071929. The model number is 01202810162. The serial number is 12402230008-06. The batch number is 51006-2P1. There are approximately 74 affected products in the Republic of Ireland and the items were sold from July 22 - 25. A spokesperson for the CCPC has declared that consumers should stop using the product immediately. Customers can return the product to the Eason store in Enniscorthy, Wexford town or Gorey for a full refund or email easonswexfordcustomerservices@gmail.com to arrange a full refund. For more information, you can go here. TKC readers may agree or disagree . . . But we wanted to share this missive because there's often a misconception that EVERYONE in red state Missouri & Kansas agrees with MAGA policy just because of election turnout. Make no mistake, KC is in the heart of MAGA Country . . . But . . . In a Democracy, there is no end to debate and ALMOST NOTHING is ever really settled. Heck, we're getting ready to do the gay marriage argument all over again. Also . . . The LR blog hosts some thoughtful writing that's worthy of consideration and far more authentic than most of what we witness from mainstream or social media offerings . . . Here's the crux of his post with a link to more . . . "Here in Kansas City, food workers at two Mexican restaurants were arrested in front of shocked onlookers. In one of our Kansas suburbs, a woman who had arrived legally from Mexico as a child, became a citizen, and who had been elected to a city council seat was questioned about her citizenship after an alleged telephone tip, which was deleted, claimed she was undocumented. "These are the tip of the iceberg. And these things are being done at taxpayer expense and by people who are allegedly representing what America stands for. And things promise to get worse. On August 6 Kristi Noem announced ICE will hire people as young as 18 and offer signing bonuses as high as $50,000 as well as paying off student loans for new recruits. I dont know about anyone else, but the thought of armed and masked eighteen-year-olds loose on our streets does not give me a warm and fuzzy feeling. "I doubt that anyone would object to undocumented people who are dangerous criminals being deported. But, in spite of the administrations insistence that this is, in fact, what is happening, what were seeing is law-abiding people who do the work we wont do, as well as students who are here legally, being stopped and disappeared. And theres not much sense to any of it. We need those people . . ." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . LR Blog: ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION THEN AND NOW ... This week, federal takeover of police in D.C. has progressives across the nation pushing back. More importantly . . . MAYOR Q DISPUTES PREZ TRUMP & ARGUES FOR MORE COOPERATION RATHER THAN CRACKDOWNS AGAINST TOWNS WITH BLACK MAYORS!!! Here's the word as the local leader continues to emerge into the national spotlight ahead of Midterms. Check-it . . . I think what most reasonable people would say is there are certainly situations where help could be a great thing for Americas cities, Mayor Quinton Lucas (D) said in a CNN interview Wednesday morning. But threats of takeovers just sending hundreds of forces, troops in some ways, into Americas cities is not something thats making anyone safer, particularly if you think about what a lot of our urban violence is. Mayor Q continued . . . While speaking to CNNs Kate Bolduan on Wednesday, Lucas pointed out that many of those major cities have Black mayors, such as himself, and believed that both race and politics are primarily behind Trumps more recent attacks. "I wont say thats the totality of it, but I absolutely think it is," Lucas said. "Youre trying to create a counterpoint often in politics. And what is a better counterpoint than Donald Trump in whatever way you see him, and a mayor? Black women mayors have been the subject of lots of attacks." For balance . . . Mayor Quinton Lucas offers more clarification in a post on X where he offers a peek at the interview and this message . . . "Posting troops in cities, undermining community trust never makes sense and is nothing more than a stunt "We can work with folks on the federal side helping us get crime guns off our streets at ATF, analysts helping us clear evidence backlogs at FBI and solve crimes in our cities." Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Kansas City mayor claims Trump targeting cities with Black leaders in crime crackdown Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas accused President Donald Trump of targeting cities with Black mayors in his latest efforts to crack down on high crime rates. Kansas City mayor: Takeover threats not 'making anyone safer' Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City, Mo. criticized President Trump's crime crackdown in Washington, D.C., arguing that sending in hundreds of troops is not a solution for urban violence and m... Developing . . . Locals plead their case to the Missouri House this week . . . Here's a quote that stands out: This specific tax fight is not just bad policy. Its an economic eviction notice of small business owners and property owners in Jackson County, Davis, owner of Blip Coffee Roasters, told members of the Missouri House of Representatives Special Interim Committee on Property Tax Reform. If this continues, it will not just force closures, but force relocations to states that value and protect their local businesses, he added, in a video that spread widely across social media platforms Thursday. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . We still have our doubts if Jeff City REALLY wants a map debate . . . But here's the latest progressive complaining on the topic . . . The current map, drawn in 2022, includes six Republican-held seats and two Democrat-held seats and received an A from the project for its partisan fairness. But that might soon change as Republican state leaders, under pressure from the Trump administration, are now likely to call lawmakers back for a special session to redraw the map and split U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleavers district in Kansas City. Such a move would make Missouri another front in a larger gerrymandering war that has broken out across the country. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . . Missouri's congressional map earned an 'A' for partisan fairness. State lawmakers are looking to change that. Two of Missouri's eight congressional districts are represented by Democrats. Under pressure from President Donald Trump, some state lawmakers are looking to cut U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver out. By Curtis Williams HOUSTON (Reuters) -Venture Global has won a legal battle against Shell over its failure to deliver liquefied natural gas under long-term contracts starting in 2023, the U.S. LNG major said on Tuesday. The company's stock price rose almost 6% in after hour trade as investors cheered the decision. Firms, including Shell, BP, Edison and Galp, filed arbitration claims starting in 2023, accusing Venture Global of profiting from the sale of LNG on the spot market while not providing them with their contracted cargoes from the Calcasieu Pass export facility in Louisiana. The companies accused Venture Global of profiteering by selling commissioning cargoes at higher spot market prices, rather than at long term contracted prices. Venture Global denied the claim, saying it delayed moving to commercial operations because of a faulty electric system that did not allow the plant to operate optimally. "We are disappointed with the outcome but respect the Tribunal's decision," Shell said in a statement to Reuters. Trust in long-term contracts is the bedrock of the LNG industry and essential for continued investment and sustainable growth, the company statement said. The decision of the tribunal is in keeping with Venture Global's position that it has always honored its agreements with its customers, the company said. "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. Earlier on Tuesday, Venture Global said it faced a potential penalty of up to $1.6 billion, according to its second-quarter earnings report. Some of the companies involved in the arbitration were pushing for a higher penalty, the report said. In just three years, Venture Global has become the second-largest U.S. LNG producer, playing a key role in keeping the country as the world's top LNG exporter. The company is also poised to become the largest U.S. LNG company by next year if it proceeds with its CP2 project in Louisiana and continues overproduction at its existing plants, according to LSEG data and company statements. (Reporting by Curtis Williams in Houston, Tanay Dhumal in Bengaluru; Editing by Mark Porter and Stephen Coates) Thank you for signing up! Youll soon be getting your Toronto scoop in your inbox. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page. Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaija BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Under the current year's training plan, a live-fire tactical exercise on Maritime Energy Infrastructure Protection was held in the Navy, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense told Trend. Defense Minister Colonel General Zakir Hasanov attended the Command Control Point of the exercise, where he received briefings from senior commanders on the progress and outcomes of each phase of the operation. The focus of the exercise, which involved the Navy's combat, combat support, and supply ships, as well as Naval Special Forces and Marine Infantry units, is to improve the command staff's practical skills in operational decision-making and the application of forces in extreme situations. According to the training plan, participating units executed a range of activities designed to protect and secure energy infrastructure located in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. Tactical elements were also successfully implemented in both daytime and nighttime settings, on the coast and on islands, to detect temporary bases of the imaginary enemy and to destroy terrorist groups by special operations. High levels of professionalism were demonstrated during search and rescue operations and the simulated evacuation of a damaged naval vessel. The focus of the live-fire tactical exercise is controlling ships in sophisticated conditions, organizing interoperability between naval forces and assets, and improving coordination and joint activities. The Minister of Defense, who was watching the progress of the exercise, positively assessed the professionalism of the personnel and the implementation of the tasks set and gave relevant instructions. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. On August 14, 2025, Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov held a phone call with Kazakhstans Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. During the call, the Kazakh FM extended congratulations on the agreements reached between Azerbaijan and the United States during President Ilham Aliyevs visit to the U.S., as well as on the progress made in the Azerbaijan-Armenia normalization process. The sides noted that the signed documents are of significant importance for promoting peace and stability in the region. They expressed satisfaction with the level of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan strategic partnership, emphasizing that high-level contacts and visits between the two countries contribute to the further development of bilateral cooperation. The conversation also highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation within regional and international organizations of which both countries are members, and the ministers discussed preparations for upcoming events. The parties additionally exchanged views on other matters of mutual interest. Photo: Press Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. The Chatakh-Cheshmali-Mollalar-Meshadivalilar-Hasanli-Abbasgulular-Papagchilar-Guvandik-Lazilar-Novosaratovka road, which connects the village of Chatakh in the Tovuz district with the village of Novosaratovka in the Gadabay district of Azerbaijan, will be repaired, Trend reports. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed the relevant decree. According to the decree, 1.5 million manat ($882,000) has initially been allocated to the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads for the capital repair of the Chatakh-Cheshmali-Mollalar-Meshadivalilar-Hasanli-Abbasgulular-Papagchilar-Guvandik-Lazilar-Novosaratovka road, which connects 13 settlements with a total population of 21,000 people. The funds are allocated from the amount specified in sub-clause 1.19.21 of the "Distribution of funds allocated for state capital investments (investment expenditures) in the 2025 State Budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan," as approved by the Presidential Decree No. 445 dated January 10, 2025. The Ministry of Finance of Azerbaijan is tasked with the imperative to secure the fiscal allocation specified in section 1 of this decree. On that account, the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan is mandated to earmark the requisite financial resources for the ongoing capital refurbishment of the roadway within the 2026 state budget, categorized under the domain of state capital investment expenditures. The Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan is obligated to address the operational challenges stemming from this decree. Photo: Press service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Four agreements signed between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have been approved, Trend reports. President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed the relevant decree. According to the decree, the agreements include: - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on cooperation in the field of environmental protection"; - "Agreement between the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan on mutual recognition of authorized economic operator institutions"; - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on cooperation in the fields of science, vocational education and higher education"; - "Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the organization of information exchange on copied, stolen, lost and criminally related mobile devices"; The relevant agencies (Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, State Customs Committee, Ministry of Science and Education, and Ministry of Digital Development and Transport) must ensure the implementation of the provisions of the agreements, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must notify the other party about the completion of the internal procedures necessary for the entry into force of the agreements. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization Asaf Hajiyev has sents a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports. "Esteemed Mr. President, I cordially congratulate you on the great victory of peace. You have written another brilliant chapter in the history of independent Azerbaijan. At the heart of this peace victory lie your profound policy, high level of education and intellect, subtle diplomacy, foresight, as well as love for Azerbaijan and its moral values. Back in 2003, when you were elected as President of Azerbaijan, you stated that not an inch of Azerbaijans land could be the subject of discussion. The years have shown that you remained true to your word and that today you are now widely recognized worldwide as a pragmatic leader who stands by his commitments. Under your leadership, the victorious Azerbaijani Army won the 44-day Second Karabakh War, ensuring the territorial integrity of our country. You have recently signed a peace declaration in the United States, putting an end to the conflict that had lasted for more than three decades. Today, every citizen of Azerbaijan reveres our sons and daughters who sacrificed their lives for our independence and territorial integrity. The kind words U.S. President Donald Trump voiced about you at the signing ceremony of the peace declaration are a source of great pride for every Azerbaijani. This recognition is a high assessment of the policy you have been pursuing for many years. The agreement reached thanks to your activities is not only a triumph of peace between the two countries, but also a great achievement for our region and will bring development and prosperity to the region. Although Azerbaijan is a small country on the political map of the world, thanks to your policies, our nation holds a special place on it. Through the policies you have implemented, you have secured a distinctive position among the worlds leading statesmen, and every Azerbaijani takes pride in this. I once again heartily congratulate you on the great victory, and wish Your Excellency robust health and great success in your activities," the letter reads. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Asaf Hajiyev has sent a congratulatory letter to First Vice President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva, Trend reports. "Dear Mrs. Mehriban Aliyeva, I sincerely congratulate you on the great victory for peace. By signing the peace declaration, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has written another brilliant page in the history of independent Azerbaijan. At the heart of this victory lie profound intellect, thoughtful policy, foresight, refined diplomacy, and love for Azerbaijan. Back in 2003, when Mr. Ilham Aliyev was elected President of Azerbaijan, he stated that not an inch of our countrys land could be the subject of negotiation. The years have shown that our President has always remained true to his word and is recognized worldwide as a pragmatic leader. Peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia is not only for the two countries it will bring development to the wider region in which we live. Despite being a small state on the political map of the world, thanks to successful policies, our country occupies a unique place globally. Undoubtedly, you have played a significant role in the implementation of this policy. Your exceptional contributions to promoting Azerbaijans moral and cultural values worldwide are undeniable, and you continue your activities with great success. Your work reflects deep intellect, high culture, and the delicate sensibilities inherent to an Azerbaijani woman. Once again, I sincerely congratulate you on this great victory and wish you continued success in your work, good health, and family happiness," the letter reads. Veteran trader has surprising post-earnings take on Monday.com originally appeared on TheStreet. Can't trust that day. The Mamas and the Papas sang about this back in their 1966 hit "Monday, Monday." Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Monday morning gave no warning to Monday.com (MNDY) , which dropped nearly 30% on, well, Monday, Aug. 11 after the Tel Aviv work-management platform beat analysts' estimates but issued a weaker-than-expected third-quarter revenue outlook. "We are pleased to report another outstanding quarter for monday.com, Co-Founder and Co-CEO Ray Mann said during the earnings call. "Underscored by robust revenue growth of 27%, this performance reflects surging demand for our platform and the powerful value we deliver to customers across industries." Mann added that the company continued to "make significant strides in our AI offering, expanding capabilities and accelerating innovation to empower teams and drive impactful results at scale." During a Q&A with analysts, Mann said we do see some pressure from Google (GOOGL) on the news side, though it's not something we didn't encounter before." Monday.com says it made 'significant strides in our AI offering.'Monday.com TheStreet Pro's Guilfoyle: Monday.com results solid Changes in Google's search algorithms can significantly affect businesses that rely on online presence to acquire customers, including software-as-a-service providers like Monday.com. "This is temporary, we believe, and we are already taking actions proactively to address this, and we believe this is going to be recovered going into the second half of the year," said Eliran Glazer, co-founder and co-CEO. More Tech Stocks: TheStreet Pros Stephen Guilfoyle bluntly assessed the markets reaction to Monday.com's earnings report. "The results were solid," he said in his recent column. "The guidance was OK, if not better. Yet, the stock was beaten like a rented mule ahead of the opening bell in New York." Guilfoyle, whose career dates back to the floor of the New York Stock Exchange on the 1980s, said the revenue forecast "would be a slight miss, but still be good for growth of 24% to 25%, which is just about what Wall Street is looking for." "Monday.com came in trading at 65 times [forward] earnings, so the stock was expensive," the veteran trader said. "Sales growth is decelerating [but] not weak. Margins are under pressure, but that is largely a function of stock-based compensation." BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. The course titled "Military Public Affairs and Strategic Communications in NATO (STRATCOM)" was held in Baku under the organization of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense and NATO Joint Force Command Brunssum Mobile Training Team, with the support of the Media Development Agency, Trend reports via the ministry. The course hosted by the Media and Public Affairs Department of the Azerbaijan Ministry of Defense brought together personnel from various departments and military units of the Ministry, as well as representatives from other government agencies. In alignment with the program's framework, participants were engaged in a comprehensive presentation elucidating the communication paradigm employed by the Azerbaijan Defense Ministry. Throughout the duration of the program, participants interfaced with domain specialists via comprehensive presentations covering an array of pertinent subjects. The sessions encompassed dynamic dialogues and avenues for reciprocal ideation and experiential sharing within the realm of strategic communication. The attendees were apprised of the ministry's publishing, multimedia, and editorial initiatives. Additionally, the course aimed to demonstrate the importance of a unified approach among allied countries and organizations while increasing preparedness for information struggle during armed conflicts. In conclusion, certificates of completion were presented to the participants. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Under the current year's training plan, a training-methodical session was held with the participation of communications officers from various types of troops, army corps, and formations of the Azerbaijan Army, as well as from specialized educational institutions operating under the National Defense University, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense told Trend. During the session aimed at improving the operations of communication units and subunits, ensuring unified communication and automated command systems among the troops, and enhancing the professional training of communications officers within the Azerbaijan Army, the participants were informed about the latest developments in the field of military communications. As part of the training-methodical session, presentations were given on the capabilities of various types of modern radio stations, their application and development prospects in the radio communication system, as well as on the organization of satellite communications and communication activities. Specialized officers showed great interest in the presentations demonstrated on newly introduced command systems, communication equipment, radio sets, and digital technologies, as well as the development directions of modern data transmission programs and the organization of cybersecurity and cyber hygiene protocols in the troops. In the end, participants brought up questions that were tackled, and practical guidance was laid out. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. A public court hearing continued on August 14 regarding the criminal cases against citizens of the Republic of Armenia, including Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Davit Ishkhanyan, David Babayan, Levon Mnatsakanyan, and others, who are accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, including the preparation and conduct of an aggressive war, genocide, violation of the laws and customs of war, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, forcible seizure and retention of power, and numerous other crimes as a result of Armenias military aggression against Azerbaijan, Trend reports. The trial, held at the Baku Military Court under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev (reserve judge Gunel Samadova), ensured that each accused person was provided with a translator in their preferred language and defense lawyers. The hearing was attended by the accused, their defense attorneys, some of the victims, their legal heirs and representatives, as well as prosecutors defending the states accusations. Judge Zeynal Agayev introduced the judicial panel, the prosecutors defending the states accusations, the translators, and others to the victims participating in the trial for the first time, and explained their rights and obligations as stipulated by law. Victim Saadat Garayeva stated that she was forcibly displaced from her homeland, the Kalbajar district, at the age of 16. She said that as a result of the Armenian armed forces attack, they were forced to abandon their home on March 30, 1993, leaving their property in the occupied territories. At that time, her relatives were martyred. In her testimony, she expressed her complaints against the accused. At this point, the defense lawyer of the accused Arayik Harutyunyan asked her, Are you complaining about these individuals because of their Armenian nationality? Saadat Garayeva responded, No, my complaint is not because they are Armenian, but because they occupied our lands, kept them under occupation, killed our civilians, and committed other crimes. Answering questions from state prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, victim Uruz Valiyeva stated that during the Khojaly genocide on the night of February 25-26, 1992, she, her spouse, and other relatives were taken hostage. At that time, her sister-in-law, Surayya Javad Valiyeva, went missing and has not been found to this day. She added that on the night of February 16-17, 1992, in the Garadaghly village of the Khojavend district, two of her brothers were taken hostage. One of her brothers was released from captivity and returned, but there is still no information about the fate of her other brother, who was 14 years old at the time. In his testimony, Rashad Ismayilov stated that on October 23, 1993, at the age of 16, he was taken hostage by the Armenian armed forces in the Mehdili village of the Jabrayil district. Answering questions from Nasir Bayramov, head of the department for the defense of state accusations at the Prosecutor Generals Office, the victim stated that he was taken to Boyuk Marjanli village, then to Hadrut, and was released after being held hostage for three days. Yashar Abbasov stated in his testimony that he was wounded in the right leg as a result of gunfire from the opposing side during battles in the Aghdara direction on September 2, 1992. In response to questions from Vusal Aliyev, senior assistant to the Prosecutor General, Abbasov said that he has had ongoing issues with his leg since that time. Balay Nasibov stated in his testimony that, starting from 1992, he participated in battles against the Armenian armed forces in several directions. He initially served as the headquarters chief of a battalion and later as a battalion commander. Nasibov noted that he was wounded in January 1994 in Murovdagh. A victim originally from Kalbajar stated that during the occupation of the district, the attacking forces, led by Monte Melkonyan and including foreign mercenaries, advanced from the Azerbaijan-Armenia border. During the occupation of Kalbajar (late March, early April 1993 ed.), to prevent a second Khojaly genocide, we received orders to evacuate the population. It is a well-known fact that managing combat and evacuating people simultaneously is challenging. However, we tried to evacuate the population during the fighting because the enemy was blocking all routes as much as possible, he added. The accused, Davit Ishkhanyan, addressing a question to the victim, stated that at the time, he was a battalion commander under Monte Melkonyans command. Yasin Abbasov, in his testimony, stated that he is a resident of Kalbajar and participated in battles against the occupiers as part of the Kalbajar defense battalion from December 1992 to April 2, 1993. His cousin was martyred. In response to questions from Tugay Rahimli, an assistant to the Prosecutor General for special assignments, he said that his home remained in the occupied Kalbajar district at that time. Natig Aliyev stated in his testimony that on March 27, 1993, he was forcibly displaced from Kalbajar due to the attack by the Armenian armed forces. In response to questions from state prosecutor Fuad Musayev, the victim also mentioned that he participated in battles against the Armenian army. Gismet Allahverdiyev said he fought against the Armenian armed forces in Kalbajar, Lachin, Fuzuli, and Tartar, and was wounded. He stated that during the enemys attack on Kalbajar, five people aged between 80 and 100 were taken hostage, and their fate remains unknown to this day. He said, These were Musa Bayramov, a man, and women named Gulsum Bayramova, Mina, Madina, and Saray. Sayavush Bandaliyev stated in his testimony that he participated in battles against the Armenian armed forces in Kalbajar, Lachin, and Aghdara as part of the defense battalion in 19921993 and was wounded in 1993. He added that health issues resulting from his injuries persist to this day. Firuz Dadashov said he fought against the Armenian armed forces and was wounded as a result of a mine explosion in the Narishlar village of the Lachin district. Natig Ahmadov stated in his testimony that in March 1993, he sustained shrapnel wounds due to a provocation by the Armenian armed forces in the Khidirli village of the Aghdam district. Asif Ibrahimov stated in his testimony that in 1991, he sustained five bullet wounds and six shrapnel wounds when a vehicle traveling from Tartar to Aghdara was fired upon. He was a civilian at the time. Mikayil Rzayev stated that during the occupation of Kalbajar, his mother was killed. Galib Mammadov, a native of Kalbajar, stated in his testimony that while serving in the internal affairs bodies, he participated in repelling attacks by the Armenian armed forces. He said that upon hearing about the Aghdaban tragedy on April 8, 1992, they immediately went to the area and encountered a horrific scene. The victim stated, Peoples cries were mixed with the sound of gunfire. We first saw the body of Abdul, a man. Bakir Gojayev, Zeynab Gojayeva, and othersa total of 32 peoplewere brutally killed. They also killed my 16-year-old brother, leaving him in such a state that I could only recognize him by his clothes. Mammadov also noted that he was wounded twice. Vugar Isayev, Zohrab Karimov, Bakir Alasgarov, Nazim Rzayev, Goshgar Tagiyev, Ilgar Valiyev, Aslan Khalilov, Shamiddin Khalilov, Adil Huseynov, and Rafik Akbarov stated that they were forcibly displaced from the Kalbajar district as a result of attacks by the Armenian armed forces and suffered various damages. Nadir Akbarov, Parviz Aliyev, Ramiz Aliyev, Gorkhmaz Asadov, Dadash Hajiyev, Habil Ibrahimov, Khalig Ibrahimov, Habil Imamaliyev, Hikmat Mayilov, Sayyaf Mukhtarov, Habil Guliyev, Akif Karimov, Elshan Zamanov, Famil Yusibov, Mail Adilov, Rasim Adilov, Malik Aliyev, Firuz Mammadov, Radim Mammadov, and Niyazi Nazarov stated that they fought against the Armenian armed forces in various directions and were wounded. Some of them were wounded two or even three times but continued to participate in battles afterward. Ruslan Mirzaliyev stated in his testimony that he was wounded during the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020. His father, Vahidjan Mirzaliyev, was martyred on October 2, 1992, in the Khojavend district. Gardaskhan Adigozalov, Rasim Alakbarov, Fuad Hasanov, Aghalar Asadov, Mahir Ramazanov, and Royal Ahmadov stated in their testimonies that they were wounded as a result of provocations by the Armenian armed forces during the Patriotic War in 2020. Taleh Gasimov, Ilyas Ahmadov, Arzu Ibrahimov, Hamid Musayev, Emin Sardarov, Javad Mahmudov, and Sarvan Mammadov said they suffered damages due to provocations and attacks by the Armenian armed forces at various times. Afgan Safaraliyev stated that in 1997, during military service, he was taken prisoner by the Armenian armed forces and returned to Azerbaijan after two years. He was subjected to severe torture during his captivity. Elnur Hasanov stated in his testimony that on April 9, 2022, while grazing sheep in the Hasangaya village of the Tartar district, he was injured due to the explosion of a mine planted by the Armenian armed forces. Madat Manafli stated in his testimony that on November 16, 2021, he was wounded while repelling a provocation by the Armenian armed forces in Lachin. Shirin Ismayilov stated that in 1997, during military service, he was taken prisoner. He was returned to Azerbaijan after three years and six months. During his captivity, he was subjected to severe torture and inhumane treatment. Javanshir Sariyev was held in captivity from 1992 to 1993. During his captivity, he was subjected to cruel treatment and horrific torture. Kamil Allahverdiyev stated in his testimony that in 1993, he was taken hostage in Goranboy and returned after five months. He was subjected to horrific torture during his captivity. The victim also mentioned that his father was martyred. Hikmat Guluyev stated that in 1993, due to the attack by the Armenian armed forces, while being forcibly displaced from the Gunesli village of Kalbajar, their path was blocked by the enemy in an area called the Tunnel. He was taken hostage at that time, held for a year and a half, and then returned to the Azerbaijani side. The victims also answered questions from the accused, including David Manukyan and David Babayan, their defense attorneys, and their representatives. The trial will continue on August 15. Fifteen defendants of Armenian origin are accused in the criminal case concerning numerous crimes committed during the aggressive war waged by the Armenian state - including the aforementioned criminal association - on the territory of Azerbaijan, in violation of domestic and international legal norms. These crimes were committed for the purpose of military aggression against Azerbaijan and were carried out under the direct leadership and participation of the Armenian state, officials of its state institutions, its armed forces, and illegal armed formations, through their written and verbal orders, instructions, and guidelines; material, technical, and personnel support; centralized management; as well as under strict control and under the leadership and direct or indirect participation of Robert Sedraki Kocharyan, Serzh Azati Sargsyan, Vazgen Mikaeli Manukyan, Vazgen Zaveni Sargsyan, Samvel Andraniki Babayan, Vitali Mikaeli Balasanyan, Zori Hayki Balayan, Seyran Musheghi Ohanyan, Arshavir Surenovich Garamyan, Monte Charles Melkonyan, and others. The following individuals - Arayik Vladimiri Harutyunyan, Arkadi Arshaviri Ghukasyan, Bako Sahaki Sahakyan, Davit Rubeni Ishkhanyan, David Azatini Manukyan, Davit Klimi Babayan, Levon Henrikovich Mnatsakanyan, Vasili Ivani Beglaryan, Erik Roberti Ghazaryan, Davit Nelsoni Allahverdiyan, Gurgen Homeri Stepanyan, Levon Romiki Balayan, Madat Arakelovich Babayan, Garik Grigori Martirosyan, and Melikset Vladimiri Pashayan - are being charged under the following articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan: Article 100 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression); Article 102 (attacking persons or organizations enjoying international protection); Article 103 (genocide); Article 105 (extermination of the population); Article 106 (enslavement); Article 107 (deportation or forced displacement of population); Article 109 (persecution); Article 110 (enforced disappearance of persons); Article 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law); Article 113 (torture); Article 114 (mercenary service); Article 115 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare); Article 116 (violation of international humanitarian law during armed conflict); Article 118 (military robbery); Article 120 (intentional murder); Article 192 (illegal entrepreneurship); Article 214 (terrorism); Article 214-1 (financing terrorism); Article 218 (creation of a criminal organization); Article 228 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and devices); Article 270-1 (acts threatening aviation security); Article 277 (assassination of a state official or public figure); Article 278 (forcible seizure and retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state); Article 279 (creation of armed groups not provided for by law); and additional articles. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. The "Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity" (TRIPP) embodies a common position that Armenia and Azerbaijan have shared over the past 35 years - "an unwillingness to allow Russia to monopolize the settlement of the conflict between them", said in an article by the authoritative British think tank Chatham House, Trend reports. According to experts, the implementation of the "Trump Route" (TRIPP) is associated with risks due to Russia's and Iran's dissatisfaction with the participation of extra-regional players in the affairs of the South Caucasus. Moscow is expected to steadily resist the TRIPP initiative, including by putting pressure on Azerbaijan's energy infrastructure, Armenia's trade within the EU, and the Armenian and Azerbaijani diasporas in Russia. Iran, which has less leverage, has also expressed concern about entrenching the American presence on its borders - even though the proposed solution takes into account Iranian demands to respect internationally recognized borders. The article stresses that the initiative will have a better chance of success if it is supported by Turkiye and the EU: Implementing TRIPP will require sustained support from a broad coalition of forces both within and outside the region to maintain momentum especially as the inevitable problems begin to pile up. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 15. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev gave an interview to the U.S. television channel Fox News during his visit to the United States. The channels website published an article based on some of the statements made by the head of state during the interview, Trend reports. The head of state said in an interview, I think it will be very difficult for any country, whether it's a country situated in our region or far away, to say something bad about today's achievement. Because today, we actually made a final step towards peace. The article underlined that the agreement on the Zangezur TRIPP corridor is not aimed against any country. He noted that it is a new connectivity project, which will be one of the important parts of international transportation routes. President Ilham Aliyev thanked President Donald Trump and his team for their role in achieving the agreement. The head of state also spoke about relations with Russia and the incident involving the downing of Azerbaijan Airlines flight number 8243 in December 2024. He noted that Azerbaijan does not believe this was a deliberate attack.The only thing that we demanded was to admit that, punish those who committed that crime, even if it was not intentional, and pay compensation to the victims and to the airline, underlined President Ilham Aliyev. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. The next "From Village to City" fair will take place in Baku on August 16 and 17. The event is organized by the Agricultural Procurement and Supply OJSC, which is under the Ministry of Agriculture, Trend reports, citing the ministry. The fair is held annually to help local farmers expand their sales and to provide city residents with fresh, high-quality products. Around 30 farmers from about 20 districts will participate, offering roughly 90 types of agricultural and food products. The Food Safety Agency of Azerbaijan will oversee the safety and quality of all products. Visitors will also be able to have items tested on-site at a mobile food laboratory. The fair will run from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on both days at 5 Fatali Khan Khoysky Street, Narimanov District, near the Ganjlik metro station. All participating farmers will be provided with scales, counters, and other necessary equipment free of charge. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. In the liberated villages of Azerbaijans Gazakh district, 157 hectares of land have been cleared of mines and unexploded ordnance, the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) said in response to a request from Trend. During the operations, a total of 1,140 mines and unexploded ordnance were found and neutralized, including 995 anti-personnel mines, 97 anti-tank mines, and 48 other unexploded devices. The villages of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gizilhajili, which had been under Armenian occupation for 30 years, were returned to Azerbaijan in May of this year. The return of these territories followed an agreement reached by the Azerbaijan-Armenia border delimitation commission on April 19, 2024. As a result, a 12.7-kilometer border line was established, and the 6.5-square-kilometer areas of the four Gazakh villages were restored to Azerbaijani control. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. On August 13, a military parade was pulled together for the first time to celebrate Pakistans Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq (Battle of Truth) in Islamabad, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense said in a statement, Trend reports. Along with the political and military leadership of Pakistan, the parade was attended by the First Deputy Minister of Defense of the Republic of AzerbaijanChief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, Colonel General Karim Valiyev, representatives of the embassy and military attache office of Azerbaijan in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and other official guests. Azerbaijans representation in the parade encompassed a dedicated contingent from the Azerbaijan Army, integrating seamlessly with the array of participating military forces from diverse nations. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania Oana Toiu met with representatives of the Concordia Employers' Confederation to discuss Romania's priorities in the field of economic diplomacy, Trend reports. The minister emphasized that dialogue with the business community, especially now, is not only useful but absolutely necessary. She appreciated Concordias active involvement both domestically and internationally, including through participation in platforms such as Business at OECD (BIAC), where the interests of Romanian entrepreneurs are promoted. Minister Oana Toiu invited the private sector to put forward concrete proposals to support Romanian companies through the tools of economic diplomacy: bilateral missions and contacts, thematic events, analyses, and specialized materials. She welcomed the proposals from Concordias representatives, particularly regarding the reform of the economic diplomacy tools available to the Romanian state, especially concerning the Romanian Agency for Investments and Foreign Trade (ARICE). Oana Toiu also mentioned her recent meetings with high-ranking officials from Ukraine during her bilateral visit on August 79 this year, issuing a call for Romanian companies to get involved in the neighboring countrys reconstruction process. She encouraged participation in tenders and investments in Ukraine, highlighting the major opportunities for the development of Romanian businesses. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Following the Croatian Governments decision allowing the Armed Forces to cross the border for humanitarian aid abroad, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ivan Anusic issued an order for deployment, Trend reports. The order sends Croatian Air Force firefighting aircraft to Montenegro to assist in combating wildfires. One Canadair CL-415 firefighting aircraft, with a crew from the 855th Firefighting Squadron of the 93rd Wing of the Croatian Air Force, is being sent today, August 13, 2025, to Montenegro to provide firefighting assistance. The three-member Canadair crew, consisting of two pilots and one flight technician, will fly to the fire site in Montenegro, with a return to Croatia planned today after completing the firefighting mission. We are ready to carry out all the tasks set before us, especially if by doing so we help protect property and human lives, said the commander of the forces being sent to Montenegro today. It should be recalled that another Croatian Air Force Canadair was engaged yesterday, August 12, 2025, in firefighting operations in Montenegro. With a market cap of $10.5 billion, Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP) is one of the worlds largest brewers with a diverse portfolio spanning beers, ciders, hard seltzers, spirits, and ready-to-drink beverages. Operating worldwide, the company is known for iconic brands like Coors Light, Miller Lite, Blue Moon, and Peroni, with a strong commitment to quality and sustainability. Shares of the Golden, Colorado-based company have underperformed the broader market over the past 52 weeks. TAP stock has dropped 2.6% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 18.4%. Moreover, shares of the company are down 10.9% on a YTD basis, compared to SPXs 9.9% rise. More News from Barchart Narrowing the focus, shares of Molson Coors Beverage Company have lagged behind the Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLP) 3.3% return over the past 52 weeks. www.barchart.com Shares of Molson Coors rose 1.3% on Aug. 5 after the company reported Q2 2025 adjusted EPS of $2.05, beating analyst expectations. Net sales came in at $3.2 billion, down 1.6% year-over-year but above the estimate, driven by pricing growth and favorable timing of U.S. shipments. Investors reacted positively to the earnings and revenue beat despite the company lowering its annual profit forecast due to higher aluminum tariffs, softer U.S. market share, and macroeconomic pressures. For the fiscal year ending in December 2025, analysts expect TAPs adjusted EPS to decline 7.9% year-over-year to $5.49. The companys earnings surprise history is mixed. It beat the consensus estimates in three of the last four quarters while missing on another occasion. Among the 21 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a Moderate Buy. Thats based on five Strong Buy ratings, one Moderate Buy, and 15 Holds. www.barchart.com On Aug. 8, TD Cowen cut Molson Coors price target to $47, maintaining a Hold" rating. As of writing, the stock is trading below the mean price target of $54.24. The Street-high price target of $72 implies a potential upside of nearly 41% from the current price. On the date of publication, Sohini Mondal 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 BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Filming of the youth movie Gajin svet 3, the third installment of one of the most successful Slovenian films, began recently at various locations across Slovenia, Trend reports. Out of 27 planned shooting days, seven will take place with the collaboration and support of the Slovenian Armed Forces. A significant part of the filming these days, supported by the 15th Air Force and Air Defense Brigade, members of the 72nd Brigade, and the Special Operations Unit, is taking place at Cerklje ob Krki and Brnik airports and the surroundings of Ljubljana, where key action scenes of the film are being shot. The first two Gajin svet films together attracted more than 160,000 viewers and won numerous awards, including Best Youth Film at the Sarajevo Film Festival. In the new film, after her mother, a doctor on a humanitarian mission, is kidnapped, Gaja bravely takes initiative and embarks on a dangerous rescue mission. The premiere is scheduled for the end of August 2026, followed by screenings across Slovenia and an educational program for schools. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Minister of Defense of Serbia Bratislav Gasic received Norwegian author and historian Knut Flovik Thoresen during the latters official visit, Trend reports. The Norwegian author and historian is in the Republic of Serbia to visit the Military Archive and conduct research into archival materials necessary for the development of a database and the preparation of a publication on Serbian prisoners held in labour camps in Norway during the Second World War. He is the author of the book Til Norge for a d (To Norway to Die), which was translated into Serbian in 2015. The publication documents the imprisonment of Serbian internees held in Nazi camps in northern Norway. During Mr Thoresens visit, Minister Gasic expressed his appreciation for the authors long-standing dedication to researching the fate of the Serbian people in Nazi camps on the territory of Norway. He emphasized that fostering a culture of remembrance is of vital importance for preserving historical truth and honouring the dignity of the victims. On this occasion, the Minister also expressed his full support for efforts aimed at preserving the memory of Serbian suffering and stressed that the Ministry of Defence remains open to cooperation in the fields of historical research and international memorialization. Thoresen presented the Minister of Defence with the results of his research to date, as well as with his planned research and publishing activities. He emphasized that the story of Serbian prisoners in Norway is an important yet insufficiently known chapter of history one that deserves greater attention and respect. Knut Flovik Thoresen is the recipient of the Milos Obilic Gold Medal for Bravery for exceptional courage and an act of personal heroism, which was presented to him by the President of the Republic, Aleksandar Vucic, on the Serbian Statehood Day Sretenje, in 2022. As a member of an intervention battalion consisting of approximately 250 Norwegian troops, Thoresen played a key role during the violent events of March 17, 2004, in Kosovo and Methoja. His actions were instrumental in preventing the destruction of the Serbian village of Caglavica near Pristina, as well as the burning of the Gracanica Monastery. Latvian export value drops to lowest level since 2023 Latvias export value dropped to its lowest level in two years this June, as declines in key sectors such as agriculture, wood products, and metals outweighed gains in other categories. The latest figures point to a sharp monthly contraction, despite overall growth in the first half of 2025. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. The Ministry of National Defense of Lithuania is continuing to strengthen the countrys defense capabilities by investing not only in modern military equipment but also in ammunition, Trend reports. The Lithuanian Armed Forces have boosted their stockpiles with the acquisition of advanced anti-tank underbelly mines worth more than 10 million euros (excluding VAT), designed to counter enemy armored vehicles. In addition, the military has replenished its warehouses with 155 mm artillery shells for use with PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers. These shorter-range shells are valued at 0.52 million euros (excluding VAT). Ammunition stockpiling is a strategically important step in strengthening Lithuanias defense capabilities. We must ensure that the Lithuanian Armed Forces always have sufficient or even surplus modern ammunition, as this is not just about numbers on paper but a guarantee of our peoples safety. We are purchasing and stockpiling 155 mm artillery shells and modern anti-tank mines that are essential for effective deterrence, said Minister of National Defense Dovile Sakaliene. The acquisitions were made with the support of the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). Ammunition replenishment is an integral part of the modernization of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, supporting the development of Lithuanias first military division, which is set to receive at least 70 percent of the armed forces modernization budget over the next decade. Ammunition remains one of the key elements of combat readiness, necessary both for daily training and for strategic reserves. As the division develops, priority is given not only to combat platforms but also to their supply especially ammunition and other material resources essential for the effective operation of military units in both peacetime and crises. BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Dovile Sakaliene visited Pittsburgh, where she met with U.S. defense and artificial intelligence technology companies as well as the U.S. Army Artificial Intelligence Integration Center (AI2C). Discussions focused on U.S. experience in applying artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and robotics solutions in the military, along with opportunities for joint research and development projects, technology transfer, and industrial partnerships that could strengthen Lithuanias defense capabilities, Trend reports. Visits to such centers and new connections in the US high-tech defense sector not only broaden our perspective and deepen our understanding of the transformation of warfare and the possibilities of the future battlefield. They also open wider opportunities to address current challenges and strengthen cooperation between US and European markets, said Minister Sakaliene. During the visit, Minister Sakaliene met with Pittsburgh-based defense industry companies including Near Earth Autonomy, KEF Robotics, Lovelace AI, Carnegie Robotics, the National Engineering Center, and the National Robotics Engineering Consortium. She also toured the US Army Artificial Intelligence Integration Center, established under the Armys AI strategy. The center plays a key role in integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies into military capabilities, connecting the Army with academic institutions, industry, and innovation hubs. Its work focuses on three main areasskills development, AI integration, and product creation. The Ministry of National Defense is implementing a defense industry development program built around four strategic areas: ammunition and explosives production, drone and counter-drone technologies, military equipment manufacturing and maintenance, and naval defense. At the same time, Lithuania is investing in long-term technological growth in fields such as autonomous systems, military artificial intelligence, sensor and photonics technologies, and secure communications. These initiatives aim to strengthen national security, enhance supply chain resilience, foster technological innovation, and deepen cooperation with NATO allies, with a particular focus on the United States. To further expand weapons production and maintenance in Lithuania, the ministry actively promotes strategically important defense industry investment projects, creating a favorable regulatory and investment environment through industrial cooperation mechanisms, the Green Corridor initiative for defense manufacturing, and technology transfer agreements. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Azerbaijan witnessing surge in homegrown appetite for goods and services in 6M2025 Domestic consumption growth in Azerbaijan boosted aggregate demand by 8.26 percent in the first half of 2025. Household consumer spending accounted for 58.2 percent of GDP in Q1, increasing by 2.7 percentage points from last year. Goods and services sold to the population rose by 5.1 percent, reaching 37.7 billion manat ($22.2 billion). Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Iranian non-oil exports to Kazakhstan plummet Irans non-oil exports to Kazakhstan dropped by 4.6 percent in value and 23.2 percent in weight from March 21 to July 22, 2025. Exports totaled $76.8 million and 118,000 tons, down from $80.5 million and 154,000 tons a year earlier. Overall non-oil trade between the two countries fell by over 25 percent in both value and volume. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Iran sets goal to boost imports, exports, and transit via Astara port In the current Iranian year (March 21, 2025 March 20, 2026), boosting imports, exports, and transit of goods through Astara district in Gilan province, northern Iran, has been set as a key goal, said Gilan Governor Hadi Haqshenas during a visit to Astara. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 14. As part of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3), held on August 58, 2025, in Awaza, Turkmenistan, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) officially invited Turkmenistan to become a full member. This invitation opens new prospects for the country to access large-scale investments and advanced technologies. Membership in the AIIB will provide Turkmenistan with direct access to one of the worlds largest international sources of infrastructure financing. Since its launch in 2016, the bank has approved projects worth over $60 billion across more than 35 countries, with operations in Central Asia showing steady growth. In 2024 alone, the region received around $2.8 billion in financing, covering railway infrastructure development, energy systems, and logistics chains. As a member, Turkmenistan will be able to shape financing priorities and attract capital for both national and cross-border initiatives. Moreover, the AIIB employs co-financing mechanisms with institutions such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, reducing borrowing costs through combined lending models. By the end of 2024, Turkmenistans GDP growth reached around 5.8 percent, driven mainly by natural gas exports and activity in the construction sector. However, the oil and gas industry continues to dominate the economic structure, making diversification a priority for the 20252030 period. According to the World Bank, Central Asian countries will need up to $20 billion in investments for green energy development by 2030, with Turkmenistan potentially accounting for a significant share. Participation in the AIIB could provide a substantial portion of these funds, particularly for renewable energy, transport, and logistics projects. If Turkmenistan manages to attract an average of about $1.5 billion annually through AIIB support programs starting in 2025, by 2030 this could increase non-resource exports by 1520 percent. Growth would be achieved through improved logistics, infrastructure modernization, and the creation of new production capacities. Transport connectivity is one of the key areas of cooperation. The AIIB sees significant potential in the development of high-speed rail links, which could cut cargo delivery times by 40 percent, boosting the competitiveness of Turkmen carriers on routes between China, the Caspian region, and the Persian Gulf states. The modernization of road routes towards Kazakhstan and Iran would further strengthen Turkmenistans role within the International NorthSouth Transport Corridor. The AIIB also supports infrastructure digitalization, including funding for the automation of customs procedures, the introduction of electronic cargo tracking systems, and the creation of smart logistics hubs. These initiatives would improve trade efficiency and reinforce Turkmenistans position in regional supply chains. In the infrastructure sector, one of the most significant projects could be the construction of a high-speed railway network spanning about 600 kilometers, with investment volumes of approximately $1.21.5 billion. This would connect key industrial centers and optimize freight transport. Modernizing power transmission systems could add about 1,500 MW of cross-border capacity and increase electricity exports by roughly 15 percent by 2027. The development of solar and wind power plants, with investments of $500700 million, could boost renewable energy generation by 1.2 GW and raise the share of clean energy from less than 1 percent in 2024 to 12 percent by 2030. At the same time, the reconstruction of around 1,000 kilometers of highways could reduce transportation costs by 20 percent and make the country more attractive to international logistics companies. Membership in the AIIB will provide Turkmenistan with access to long-term financing and advanced technological solutions. With the consistent implementation of investment projects, the country will be able to accelerate infrastructure modernization, diversify its export structure, and strengthen its role in both regional and global transport and energy systems. (Reuters) -Walmart is expanding its 10% employee discount to nearly all of its grocery items, including dairy and meat, through the year, the company's chief people officer told its staff in a letter on Wednesday. The discount, previously limited to fresh produce and general merchandise such as apparel, now extends to almost all food categories including milk, meat, dry grocery, and seafood in stores and online, effective immediately. Walmart, the largest private employer in the United States, had previously extended its grocery discount during the holidays, but the perk will now be available year-round, the company said. "We've heard your feedback that these savings make a real difference for you and your families," Donna Morris, Walmarts chief people officer, wrote in the letter. Morris said the extension of the discount card program, first introduced more than 50 years ago, was among the companys most requested benefits. The company has also raised wages for U.S. hourly workers and launched a bonus program for about 700,000 front-line staff over the last couple of years to help retain workers. The Wall Street Journal first reported on the extension of the discount program. (Reporting by Juveria Tabassum in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid) TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. Laziz Kudratov, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, held a meeting with Aurelia Bouchez, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic, who is concluding her diplomatic mission in Uzbekistan, Trend reports. During the meeting, both sides expressed sincere appreciation for the mutual support in deepening bilateral cooperation. Ambassador Bouchez noted the growing presence of French companies in Uzbekistans strategic sectors, highlighting that this progress reflects the countrys ongoing reforms to improve the investment climate. The parties discussed plans to further strengthen cooperation, including organizing the next meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation before the end of the year. Special attention was given to the successful development of investment partnerships. The gratitude of French companies such as MND and SUEZ for support in implementing joint projects in Uzbekistan was emphasized. The discussion also covered advancing strategically important initiatives with corporations including TotalEnergies, Eiffage, EDF, Alstom, and Airbus. At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Kudratov thanked Ambassador Bouchez for her personal contribution to strengthening Uzbek-French relations and wished her success in her future professional endeavors. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the momentum of cooperation and developing mutually beneficial projects in key sectors of the economy. Over the past four years, trade and economic partnership between the two countries has accelerated significantly. Mutual trade has quadrupled, surpassing the $1 billion mark for the first time, reflecting the deepening and expanding nature of bilateral economic ties. BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, August 14. Ministers of Transport from Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan met at the Ak-Zhol checkpoint on the Kyrgyz-Kazakh border to discuss enhancing cross-border transport cooperation, Trend reports via Kyrgyz Ministry of Transport. The meeting brought together Absattar Syrgabayev, Kyrgyzstans Transport Minister, and Nurlan Sauranbayev, Kazakhstans Transport Minister. During the talks, Kyrgyzstan proposed launching international bus routes between Karakol Almaty and Cholpon-Ata Almaty via the Kegen checkpoint, as well as increasing the number of permits for Kyrgyz road carriers. The Kazakh side supported these initiatives and suggested jointly modernizing border checkpoints to expand their capacity. The ministers also reviewed ongoing issues in the road and transport sector and agreed to continue bilateral meetings to strengthen cooperation. Photo: The Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan Ilkhomjon Umrzakov held talks with a delegation from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) headed by Xiaohong Yang, Director General of the Banks Public Sector Department, Trend reports. The sides discussed measures to accelerate the implementation of ongoing infrastructure projects under public-private partnership mechanisms, as well as opportunities to expand and deepen bilateral cooperation. Particular focus was placed on modernizing water infrastructure, improving the efficiency of water use, and upgrading water supply systems. At the end of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a constructive dialogue and working together on the agreed areas of cooperation. Earlier in 2024, Uzbekistan and AIIB signed an updated roadmap through 2026, which envisages the launch of promising projects worth over $4 billion. Photo: Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in the Swiss Confederation DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, August 14. A delegation from the Committee for Tourism Development under the Government of Tajikistan, along with representatives from the private sector, visited Switzerland to showcase the republics tourism potential and swap stories of experience, Trend reports via the Embassy of Tajikistan in the Swiss Confederation. On August 13, in Zurich, the delegation held meetings with Swiss tourism representatives. Discussions focused on sustainable development of Tajikistans tourism industry, building systems for analyzing and monitoring tourism statistics, using social media to attract visitors from new markets, and preparing tourist maps and routes. Investment opportunities in the tourism sector, including incentives provided by the Tajik government, were also presented. The engagement, orchestrated in collaboration with the Tajik Embassy in Switzerland and scheduled to extend until August 16, seeks to fortify transnational partnerships and elevate the profile of Tajikistan as a premier travel locale. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Photo: The Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. Deputy Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Jasurbek Choriyev, met with Chang Man Hin, Deputy Chairman of JDB Group Limited from Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China, Trend reports. The meeting focused on potential aviation projects connecting Uzbekistan, Hong Kong, and international partners. The parties discussed establishing direct flights between Hong Kong and Uzbekistan, as well as creating an International Aviation Academy in the country. The talks included detailed plans for launching regular passenger and cargo flights aimed at strengthening logistics, boosting tourism, and enhancing business connectivity. Hong Kong Airlines was proposed as a priority partner and operator for these initiatives. A central topic was the proposed International Aviation Academy, which will train pilots, technicians, flight attendants, ground staff, and aviation managers in accordance with international standards, including FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and IOSA (Operational Safety Audit) certifications. Earlier, Uzbekistan and Hong Kong signed an air traffic agreement. This agreement is expected to create new opportunities for Uzbek airlines, increase tourist inflow, and stimulate cargo transit through Uzbekistan to Europe, Turkiye, and other regions. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Azerbaijan's Nakhchivan boosts real estate registration deals in 7M2025 During the first seven months of 2025, 129 non-residential buildings and 2,528 land plots were registered in Azerbaijani Nakhchivans real estate register. The number of private homes registered reached 2,245, along with 24 property complexes. Compared to the same period in 2024, non-residential buildings grew by 43.3 percent, land plots by 0.7 percent, private homes by 7.1 percent, and property complexes by 9 percent. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register Iran bolsters product imports from Uzbekistan In the early days of 2025, Iran's imports from Uzbekistan shot up like a rocket, climbing 28.9 percent in value and skyrocketing 104 percent in weight. Imports hit the nail on the head at $32.9 million and 22,200 tons, with cotton and silk making the cut. Trade turnover soared to $202 million and 284,000 tons, climbing nearly 40 percent in value. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. The trade turnover between Uzbekistan and France has skyrocketed in recent years, with joint projects featuring Frances top companies and organizations surpassing a whopping $10 billion, Trend reports, citing the Uzbek presidents office. This was announced during a meeting between President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the French Republic to Uzbekistan Aurelia Bouchez, who is wrapping up her diplomatic mission in the country. The Head of State highlighted the Ambassadors fruitful work and personal contribution to strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. It was noted the back-and-forth high-level visits have taken Uzbekistan-France cooperation to the next level, adding some meat to the bones with solid initiatives. At the conclusion of the meeting, in recognition of her significant contribution to fostering friendship and strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and France, President Mirziyoyev awarded Ambassador Bouchez the Dostlik (Friendship) Order. Ambassador Bouchez expressed deep gratitude to the president for the high recognition of her diplomatic mission and sincerely thanked him for the strong support extended to the comprehensive development of bilateral cooperation. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel The countrys first bank, Kapital Bank, has received awards in five categories within the framework of the international Stevie Awards, one of the most prestigious business awards, often referred to as the Business worlds Oscars. Established in 2002, the Stevie Awards is one of the largest international business award programs, attracting the highest number of participants worldwide. In 2025, more than 3,800 entries from 78 countries were evaluated under the International Business Awards, with hundreds of international projects competing across 22 main and 661 subcategories. Kapital Bank, participating in the program with projects focused on implementing innovative technologies and customer-oriented processes, was awarded the Gold Stevie Winner in the Consumer Services category. In addition, the bank received Silver Stevie Winner awards in the categories Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year Consumer Services, Customer Service Department of the Year, Customer Service Solutions and Achievement in Customer Satisfaction. The Head of Bank Operations Office at Kapital Bank, Mahammad Ibrahimov, shared his thoughts: At Kapital Bank, our priority is to earn the trust of our clients and provide them with the highest quality services. A prestigious award such as the Stevie Awards is a testament to our teams professionalism, dedication, and focus on customer satisfaction. We always strive to meet our clients needs through innovative approaches. Such international achievements confirm that our efforts are moving in the right direction. I am confident that these awards will strengthen our leadership in customer service and inspire our team to achieve even greater success. Kapital Bank, the country's first bank, is part of PASHA Holding. Kapital Bank has the largest service network in Azerbaijan with 121 branches and 52 departments all over the country. For more detailed information about the banks products and services, please refer to https://kapitalbank.az website, 196 Call Centre or the banks various social network pages. To apply for a consumer loan visit https://kbl.az/prgtk, for a Birbank installment card visit https://kbl.az/prcrc. TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. Deputy Minister of Transport Jasurbek Choriev has met with representatives of JSC Uzbekistan Railways, Korea Eximbank, and Saman Engineering to discuss the TashkentSamarkand passenger railway construction project, Trend reports. Discourse encompassed the delineation of the prospective alignment of the new corridor, the strategic positioning of rail infrastructure, and various technical and organizational considerations. On February 14 of the current year, the initiation of the preparatory phase for the feasibility study (FS) was undertaken, aimed at the development of a specialized high-velocity passenger rail system along the TashkentSamarkand corridor. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Source: TradingView.com Key Takeaways Intel shares surged again Tuesday following a meeting between CEO Lip-Bu Tan and President Donald Trump on Monday. After breaking down from an ascending channel late last month, the stock retraced to a multi-month trading floor before finding buying interest around this crucial location. Investors should watch key overhead areas on Intel's chart around $22, $24 and $26, while also monitoring a major support level near $19. Intel (INTC) shares surged again Tuesday following a meeting between CEO Lip-Bu Tan and President Donald Trump on Monday. The meeting came after Trump on Fridy demanded the immediate resignation of Tan, calling him "highly conflicted" over investments in Chinese firms. The president late Monday said on this Truth Social platform that the meeting was "very interesting" and that Tan's success is "an amazing story." Trump said that members of his cabinet would continue meeting with Tan in the coming days. Trumps meeting with the once-storied American chipmakers CEO followed news on Monday that AI chip giants Nvidia (NVDA) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) have agreed to pay 15% of their China chip revenues to the U.S. government in exchange for export licenses. Intel shares were up 5% at $21.75 in late trading Tuesday, adding to the previous session's gain of 3.5%. The stock is up about 9% so far this year, roughly in line with the performance of the S&P 500 in 2025 as investors asses the impact of Tans strategic moves, which include divesting assets, reducing employees, and reallocating resources. Tan took over the CEO role in March. Below, we take a closer look at Intels chart and use technical analysis to identify price levels that investors will likely be watching. Buying Interest Near Multi-Month Trading Floor After breaking down from an ascending channel late last month, Intel shares retraced to a multi-month trading floor before finding buying interest around this key location. More recently, the stock has continued to move higher, though the price remains below the 50- and 200-day moving averages and the relative strength index sits just below its neutral reading. However, its worth noting that the shares registered their highest volume in more than two weeks on Monday, indicating growing interest in the chipmakers stock. Lets identify key overhead areas on Intels chart to watch if the shares continue their recent upward momentum and also point out a major support level worth monitoring during future retracements. Key Overhead Areas to Watch The first overhead area to watch sits around $22, currently just above the key moving averages. This location will likely attract significant attention on the chart near a horizontal line that stretches back to last Augusts prominent stock gap. Azerbaijan recaps export volume of its Neftchala Industrial District's resident Photo: Economic Zones Development Agency KAHF LLC exported over 1,200 tons of fish feed worth millions to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan since 2022. The company is negotiating exports valued at over $5 million to Iraq and Kazakhstan. It invested $7.05 million in its Neftchala plant, which produces 35,000 tons of fish feed annually and employs 20+ people. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, August 14. A delegation from China met with Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan, to discuss ongoing reforms and future plans in the digital sector, Trend reports. The meeting included a presentation on initiatives carried out by the Ministry of Digital Technologies and IT Park Uzbekistan, highlighting key projects and strategic directions. During the discussions, both sides explored opportunities for cooperation in digital technologies, IT education, and artificial intelligence, as well as avenues for exchanging knowledge and experience. The meeting also addressed attracting Chinese companies to Uzbekistan, granting them IT Park resident status, and the benefits and tax incentives available to residents. Special attention was given to implementing modern IT technologies, developing educational programs in the IT field, and advancing AI projects. At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties reviewed proposals aimed at strengthening collaboration in digital technologies and creating high-paying job opportunities for young professionals. 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 14. Kyrgyzstan and South Korea plan to expand cooperation in the labor market, with a focus on improving the skills, working conditions, and rights of Kyrgyz citizens working abroad, Trend reports via Kyrgyz Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration. The topic was discussed during a meeting between Kyrgyz Minister of Social Labor Ravshanbek Sabirov and John Engil, chairman of government committees in South Korea. The parties explored opportunities to increase employment and labor migration of Kyrgyz citizens to Korea. Minister Sabirov highlighted that Korean programs and expertise could significantly contribute to the development of Kyrgyzstans human resources. John Engil, in turn, expressed readiness to deepen cooperation, share experience in labor migration, and support projects aimed at creating new jobs for Kyrgyz workers. Following the discussions, both sides agreed to continue the dialogue and implement joint initiatives to enhance labor mobility and workforce development. Number of Uzbek travelers to Qatar increases dramatically in 1H2025 Photo: National Statistics Committee Tourism from Uzbekistan to Qatar has seen a remarkable surge in the first half of 2025, with travel for leisure accounting for the vast majority of visits. Data from the National Statistics Committee show a significant year-on-year increase in Uzbek travelers heading to the Gulf nation Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, August 14. Plans to create a joint export and logistics center in Tajikistans Khatlon region were at the forefront of discussions between Bahriddin Sirojiddinzoda, Director of the Export Agency under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, and Alexander Rybas, Trade Representative of the Russian Federation in Tajikistan, Trend reports via the export agency. The meeting kicked off with discussions aimed at ramping up trade cooperation and bringing in Russian companies and banks to back the construction and operation of the center. The Russian Trade Representative articulated his preparedness to facilitate the procurement of financial resources for the initiative. Both parties underscored Tajikistans capacity for the exportation of early and seasonal agronomic commodities, alongside industrial merchandise, and accentuated the enthusiasm for synergistic endeavors with prominent Russian trading hubs. Tajikistan has been progressively enhancing its logistical frameworks and export conduits in recent years to bolster regional commerce and optimize access to global markets. Strategic undertakings have encompassed the formation of logistical nodes in pivotal areas like Sughd and Dushanbe, designed to optimize the throughput of agrarian commodities, textile goods, and mineral resources. Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Kazakhstan and China discuss grain hub project in Chengdu Photo: Kazakhstan Railways Kazakhstan Railways and JSC Kedentransservice held a meeting with Sichuan Port and Shipping Investment Group to discuss strategic cooperation, including the creation of a grain hub in Chengdu, China. The project aims to enhance Kazakhstan's agricultural exports and improve access to Southeast Asian markets. Discussions also covered infrastructure development and international logistics corridors. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, August 14. Turkmenistans Ambassador to Tajikistan A. Gochmyradov met with UN Resident Coordinator in Tajikistan Ramaswamy Parvati at the UN Permanent Mission in Dushanbe, Trend reports via Turkmen Embassy in Tajikistan. The meeting highlighted Turkmenistans active role in UN initiatives and its commitment to positive neutrality, peaceful coexistence and preventive diplomacy. The sides discussed plans for joint events both in Turkmenistan and abroad within the framework of the Year of International Peace and Trust. Special attention was given to the outcomes of the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held in August in the Awaza National Tourist Zone, which served as a major platform for addressing global development challenges. The parties also agreed to work on a joint event marking the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistans permanent neutrality and the 80th anniversary of the UN. The event will involve youth, diplomatic representatives and international organizations, focusing on the role of neutrality, trust and preventive diplomacy in promoting peace and sustainable development. Key Points Two analysts raised their price targets following the release of second-quarter earnings. Oddly, both lifted their fair value assessment by the same amount and landed at the same level. 10 stocks we like better than Franco-Nevada Gold streaming and royalty company Franco-Nevada's (NYSE: FNV) stock had a bit of luster on the second trading day of the week. Its shares closed Tuesday up by almost 1.3% on a pair of analyst price-target hikes following the company's latest earnings release. That little pop was sufficient to edge past the S&P 500 index, which closed 1.1% higher. Not one but two price-target bumps Not one but two pundits following Franco-Nevada upped their fair value assessment on the stock; interestingly enough, each raised it by the same amount to the same level. TD Securities' Derick Ma and Scotiabank's Tanya Jakusconek now feel it's worth $184 per share (from their previous $182). However, the pair maintained their respective hold recommendations. Image source: Getty Images. They did this despite the fact that Franco-Nevada delivered a second quarter featuring quite a convincing bottom-line beat. Reporting that quarter's results Monday morning, Franco-Nevada said it achieved a new quarterly revenue figure of $369.4 million, which was an impressive 42% higher year over year. Generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) net income more than tripled, landing at $247.1 million ($1.28 per share). Despite the significant growth, Franco-Nevada's key fundamentals weren't too far off the consensus analyst estimates. These called for $375.9 million on the top line and $1.13 per share for GAAP net income. Golden guidance In its earnings release, management attributed the gains to higher prices for gold overall and the acquisition of a royalty in a Canadian mine The company also proffered volume sales guidance for the entirety of 2025. It's anticipating its precious metal sales will range from 385,000 to 425,000 gold equivalent ounces (GEOs) for the year, with total GEOs landing at 465,000 to 525,000. The respective totals for the first six months of the year were 193,072 and 238,678. Franco-Nevada did not provide any financial guidance. Should you buy stock in Franco-Nevada right now? Before you buy stock in Franco-Nevada, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Franco-Nevada wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $653,427!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,119,863!* Maryland Leaders Gain Conflict Resolution Skills at Law School Training When Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman addressed this years 10th cohort of Public Policy Conflict Resolution fellows at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, she shared how being a fellow herself in 2016 when she was a Maryland State Delegate transformed her ability to negotiate with disputing constituents and stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes. As comptroller, she still uses those skills, whether she is settling disputes between agency staff or responding to complaints from the states taxpayers. 2025 Public Policy Conflict Resolution fellows attended an intensve two-day training. Lessons from the program, Lierman told the 2025 fellows, guide so much of what I do. Now more than ever, she added, referring to todays combative political climate, having the ability to deal with conflict in a productive way ... we then set a standard for those around us. Indeed, the goal of the two-day intensive training, collaboratively organized by Maryland Carey Laws Center for Dispute Resolution (C-DRUM) and the Maryland Judiciary Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office (MACRO), is larger than teaching individuals to resolve disputes. The fellows program is inspired by a broad vision of creating a culture of conflict resolution throughout the state of Maryland, said Maryland Carey Law Vice Dean Deborah Eisenberg, JD, C-DRUMs faculty director. Since 2007, the innovative initiative has manifested that vision by bringing together diverse groups of influential Maryland leaders to expand their negotiation, conflict resolution, and consensus-building skills. Graduates take those competencies back to their organizations, agencies, courtrooms, and communities in every corner of the state and apply consensus-building and conflict-management strategies in their leadership roles. Offered every two years, the Public Policy Conflict Resolution Fellows Program has trained more than 200 Maryland elected officials, judges, commissioners, university presidents, agency secretaries, nonprofit executive directors, faith leaders, and others. Through the years, the fellowship has gained popularity and prestige. The first cohort nearly 20 years ago included 14 fellows. This year, there were 27. High-profile Marylanders such as former U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron; former Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh; Maryland Public Defender Natasha Dartigue; Howard County Executive Calvin B. Ball; and several Maryland mayors are graduates. The education sector has been represented by Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Sonja B. Santelises; Higher Education Secretary James D. Fielder; Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Carey M. Wright; and the presidents of the University of Maryland, Baltimore; Salisbury University; Sojourner-Douglass College; Bowie State University; and Cecil Community College. Gregory Wells, chief judge of the Appellate Court of Maryland, was a fellow, as was John P. Morrissey, chief judge of Marylands District Court. Nonprofit leaders include Harsh K. Trivedi, president and CEO of Sheppard Pratt Health System; then-president of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, William C. Baker; and then-president and CEO of the United Way of Central Maryland, Mark Furst. Professor Stephanie Blondell, JD, faculty director of the Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution and director of the Straus Mediation Clinic at Pepperdine University, served as trainer and workshop facilitator for this years cohort. An expert in applying consensus-building and conflict de-escalation strategies to address complex issues and disputes at the national and local level, Blondell guided the 2025 participants through an array of exercises and simulations designed to equip leaders with tools of cooperation, negotiation, and integrative bargaining to manage even the thorniest conflicts peacefully. A special session focused on leading in polarized times, which responded to a collective sense within the cohort that leading effectively is especially challenging in these divisive times. On Day 2 of the program, the fellows experienced the role of a professional facilitator and applied their new skills in a Maryland-based multiparty simulation. Fittingly, cooperation is key to the workshops success. Sponsored by the Maryland Judiciary; Maryland Carey Law; and the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), and co-hosted by Supreme Court of Maryland Chief Justice Matthew J. Fader; UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS; and Maryland Carey Law Dean Renee Hutchins Laurent, JD; the program benefits from the combined strength of these people and organizations. Just as important is the on-the-ground work of experts in the Maryland Carey Law Center for Dispute Resolution and the Maryland Judiciarys Mediation and Conflict Resolution Office. Staff work together to offer some of the programming and organize the extensive activities associated with the training. We are so appreciative of this longstanding partnership between C-DRUM and the Maryland Judiciary, said Cynthia Jurrius, JD, director of MACRO. This year marked the 10th offering of the Public Policy Conflict Resolution Fellows Program, and it is highly rewarding to see how the principles of collaborative problem solving have continued to ripple across many sectors throughout the state. Maryland leaders who have participated over the years are carrying these skills into their work, creating lasting, positive impact in our communities, businesses, and institutions. Toby Treem Guerin, JD, C-DRUMs executive director and clinical instructor, agrees. This partnership has enabled us to expand the impact of the fellows program beyond the two days, Guerin said. We are always excited to work with fellows to offer training and services uniquely tailored to the needs of Marylands public policy leaders and look forward to continuing this special collaboration for many years to come. Eight years ago, Suzanne Beebe, a Lowell native who is Franco American on both sides of her family, joined Lowells Franco-American Day Committee and began learning as much as she could about the history of French Canadian immigration and settlement in New England. Beebe, who grew up speaking English at home in a neighborhood without a Franco American church or school, began to understand how all-embracing life in the French enclaves of Lowell and New England had once been. She also realized that much of that history and culture was in danger of being lost. I was painfully aware of how many people who had grown up in these enclaves were now in their 80s and 90s and passing rapidly from the scene, she says. So I was asking myself, How are we going to preserve their memories, photos and other artifacts of Franco American life? Image by Ed Brennen French and Francophone Studies Associate Professor Mercedes Baillargeon addresses the crowd at the formal launch of the Greater Lowell Franco American Digital Archive. The answer to her prayers, Beebe says, was the arrival at UMass Lowell of French and Francophone Studies Associate Professor Mercedes Baillargeon , a Quebecoise native of Montreal, in fall 2022. Baillargeon hoped to connect with Lowells Franco American community which made up one-third of the citys population in the 1920s study its history, and preserve and share as much of that history as possible by creating a digital archive within the university library system. That archive, formally launched in June, will also become part of the Franco American Digital Archives, which are hosted by the University of Maine and include collections at colleges and universities across the Northeast. Now, Baillargeon and Beebe are working with the Center for Lowell History and the Franco-American Day Committee on collecting, documenting and digitizing Lowell-area newspapers, photos, recipes and family histories to share with academics, students and future generations. Personal diaries and correspondence are super-interesting, and people love reading them, especially those with personal elements of immigration and Franco American culture and food and festivals, Baillargeon says. The Center for Lowell History, a part of the university library system that is housed downtown in a building owned by Lowell National Historical Park, already has troves of Franco American materials, including a collection of sheet music and microfilm reels of the longest-running French language newspaper in Lowell: LEtoile, published from 1886 to 1957. Image by Ed Brennen A woman helps herself to a petes de soeur, a French American pastry sweetened with maple syrup or brown sugar. The University of Maine is digitizing some of the materials for UMass Lowells archive under a grant from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, while the Franco-American Day Committee and some smaller internal and external grants are paying for an outside contractor, Film Rescue International, to digitize LEtoile and make it searchable. One document thats already fully available, thanks to the sharp eyes and hard work of UML student Lilian Whitehead, a biology major who works at the Center for Lowell History, is a handsome book documenting the history of St. Josephs Parish and its satellite church, St. Jean Baptiste, in the downtown neighborhood then known as Little Canada. The book was published in 1916 to commemorate the renovation and reopening of St. Jean Baptiste, four years after it was gutted by fire. Whitehead found it while browsing through boxes of donated materials. It was really well-preserved for its age and printed on beautiful glossy paper, with hundreds of pictures, says Whitehead, who is being paid for her work under a $10,000 Community-Engaged Research and Scholarship Fund grant awarded to the new archive by the university. The book, which Whitehead spent months scanning into a format that allows viewers to flip through it, features photos of some of Little Canadas most important sites, including the former Franco-American Orphanage (later the Franco-American School) on Pawtucket Street and The Grotto dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes behind it. The Community-Engaged Research and Scholarship grant is also paying for Baillargeon and Beebe to organize events for the Franco American community and record them for the archive, including the showing this past April of a 1979 documentary about Lowells Little Canada and a panel discussion with the grown children of people who appeared in the film and History Professor Robert Forrant. Forrant oversaw a 2020 effort to place historical markers around the neighborhood that was once Little Canada; it was mostly razed in the late 1960s as part of an urban renewal project. The archive allows us to memorialize the culture so its not forgotten, but its also so people can come together and reminisce, Baillargeon says. Image by Ed Brennen A mostly older group of Franco Americans turned out to celebrate the formal launch of the digital archive. The events Beebe and Baillargeon have helped to organize and film include a 2023 discussion by three generations of Franco American women about their differing experiences of being Franco American in Lowell and a 2024 talk by author and local activist Charlie Gargiulo about his book, Legends of Little Canada. Most recently, about 70 people turned out in June to celebrate the formal launch of the Greater Lowell Franco American Digital Archive. They watched the film of the three women and ate traditional Franco American foods, including cretons (a pork spread), tourtieres (pork pies) and petes de soeur, a pastry. They applauded Beebe, the 2025 recipient of the Franco-American Day Committees Franco American of the Year award for her work as a liaison between the community and the university. Image by Ed Brennen Michelle Lavallee Berti mourned the loss of French language skills among Franco Americans, inspiring a conversation in French with others at the event. And they mourned in both English and French the loss of spoken French among Franco American families and the closing of many local Franco American institutions, especially the churches and parish schools, once the center of the citys Franco American social life. Thats why its urgent to preserve the communitys history now, Beebe and Baillargeon say, not only for students and historians but for anyone who wants to learn more about why their ancestors left their farms in Quebec for Lowell and how they maintained and adapted their culture. People have an interest in learning about their roots and learning about where they come from, Baillargeon says. HC notice on plea by Bhopal gas victims with misclassified injuries Four organizations representing survivors of the Union Carbide disaster in Bhopal expressed hope that their public interest litigation in the State High Court will succeed in getting adequate compensation to those survivors whose injuries were misclassified earlier Thursday August 14, 2025 8:23 PM , Pervez Bari [The Bhopal gas tragedy, which occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984, when poisonous Methyl Iso-cyanate gas leaked from the Union Carbide pesticide manufacturing plant, claimed the lives of 3,000 people almost instantly. (File Image)] Bhopal: Four organizations representing survivors of the Union Carbide disaster in Bhopal expressed hope that their public interest litigation in the State High Court will succeed in getting adequate compensation to those survivors whose injuries were misclassified earlier. During a joint press conference on Wednesday the organizations revealed that the Madhya Pradesh High Court has recently sent notices to the state and central governments to respond to the issues raised in the organizations petition by September 22nd, 2025, the next date of hearing. In our petition we have presented official information that shows that 90% of survivors who were paid ex-gratia sums for cancer were classified as having suffered only minor or temporary injury due to the disaster. The same has been done regarding injuries of 95% of those who were paid ex-gratia sums for chronic kidney diseases. "We are asking the Court to direct the Indian government to consider injuries of such survivors to be permanent and of utmost severity and award them Rs. 5 lakhs as compensation, said Nasreen Khan, member of Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Purush Sangharsh Morcha, the leading petitioner organization. Injustice done Rashida Bee, president of Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Stationery Karmchari Sangh, said: The injustice done to people with cancer and fatal kidney diseases is a clear and simple illustration of the injustice done to the majority of the Bhopal survivors in the matter of compensation. "Union Carbides own document says that exposure to Methyl Iso-cyanate, the gas that leaked in Bhopal, causes permanent injuries, yet 95% of Bhopal survivors have been classified as temporarily injured. We are launching a campaign to raise awareness and document similar misclassification of disaster induced injuries in the case of other survivors. The scale of injustice is so large that unless volunteers from survivors communities come forward for this task it will not be possible to present a strong case, said Balkrishna Namdeo, president of Bhopal Gas Peedit Nirashrit Pensionbhogee Sangharsh Morcha. Rachna Dhingra of Bhopal Group for Information & Action called upon young people to join the campaign. She said, Today we need idealistic young people to collect hard evidence of mis-classification of injuries caused by the gas disaster." "We will soon be setting up a website and developing an App dedicated to this activity and provides free training to volunteers in the community", she added. The Bhopal gas tragedy, which occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984, when poisonous Methyl Iso-cyanate gas leaked from the Union Carbide pesticide manufacturing plant, claimed the lives of 3,000 people almost instantly. Over the years, more than 25,000 have succumbed to the effects of the gas, and the tragic legacy continues unabated. Nearly half a million people continue to suffer from the side effects of the toxic exposure, with several thousand permanently disabled. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Israeli Envoy resorts to personal attack as Priyanka slams Gaza Genocide In yet another example of Israeli bullying of critics, its Envoy in India Reuven Azar resorted to personal attacks after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra slammed Gaza Genocide and targeted killing of Al Jazeera journalists Thursday August 14, 2025 12:07 PM , ummid.com News Network [Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi in the Indian Parliament. (Inset) Israeli Envoy in India Reuven Azar.] New Delhi: In yet another example of Israeli bullying of critics, its Envoy in India Reuven Azar resorted to personal attacks after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra slammed Gaza Genocide and targeted killing of Al Jazeera journalists. Cold Blooded Murder It all started when Congress MP from Wayanad Priyanka Gandhi called Al Jazeera journalists killing cold blooded murder and accused Israel of committing genocide of Palestinians. The cold blooded murder of five Al Jazeera Journalists is yet another heinous crime committed on Palestinian soil, she wrote on social media platform X. The immeasurable courage of those who dare to stand for the truth will never be broken by the violence and hatred of the Israeli state, she added. In another post an hour later, Priyanka criticized the Israeli blockade of Gaza, and also questioned the silence of the Narendra Modi government on, what she called, Israeli Crimes. 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. 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. Israeli Envoy Loses Cool The Israeli Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, lost his cool and resorted to personal attack against Priyanka Gandhi. "What is shameful is your deceit, Reuven Azar wrote on X and repeated the unfounded allegations against Hamas, labeling the Resistance Fighters who are fighting the Israeli illegal occupation of their land, terrorists. In a bizarre and shameful manner, the Israeli Ambassador to India repeated that Hamas is using Palestinians as human shield and hence is responsible for the loss of lives in Gaza, a claim debunked by UN experts and agencies a number of times. Unprecedented, Intolerable Israeli Ambassadors personal attack against Priyanka Gandhi has sparked a huge row with Congress calling it unprecedented and intolerable and a direct attack on the Indian democracy. 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, Congress Spokesperson Pawan Kheda wrote on X. Directly tagging the Israeli Amssador to India, Pawan Kheda wrote, 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. Addressing the Foreign Minister of India, S Jaishankar, Pawan Kheda asked if Israel is freedom of speech in India is dictated by Israel. 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? Pawan Kheda asked. Serious Breach of Privilege Condemning the Israeli envoy's remarks, Gaurav Gogoi - MP and Deputy Leader of Congress Party in the Lok Sabha, remarked that the issue will be raised in the Parliament. The disparaging comment 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 wrote on X. Supriya Shrinate, Chairperson of Congress Social Media & Digital Platforms, while condemning the Israeli ambassador asked him to maintain dignity and decorum. Mr Ambassador, You MUST check your tone while responding to an Indian Member of Parliament. Unacceptable, she wrote. The Congress leader also reminded the Israeli Envoy that India was one of the first countries to recognise Palestines statehood in 1988 and also one of the first to recognise the PLO as the sole legitimate rep of the Palestinians in 1974. Successive govts have abided by that stand and policy. So please dont lecture us and definitely dont expect us to turn a blind eye when people are being massacred and little children are being starved. You should instead be ashamed, she wrote. The criticism of Israeli envoy is not just limited to Congress leaders but goes beyond. Senior Journalist, Nirupama Subramanian, in her comment asked, "Since when did an ambassadors role start including trashing the opposition leader of the host country? Where is the confidence coming from? The govt should tell him where he gets off but that maybe expecting too much." Israel, repeatedly though unsuccessfully, justifies the genocide and massacre of Palestinians on the pretext of defending itself. But, Francesca Albanese, UN Official and a Lawyer, has explained in detail why Israel, as an illegal occupying power, does not have right to defend itself as per the UN Charter. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Rajasthan NEET UG 2025 Round 1 Allotment Date Confirmed The NEET UG Medical and Dental Admission Counseling Board 2025 Rajasthan has revised the NEET UG 2025 Counselling Schedule confirming the new date of seat allotment Thursday August 14, 2025 3:39 PM , ummid.com News Network Rajasthan NEET UG Counselling 2025: The NEET UG Medical and Dental Admission Counseling Board 2025 Rajasthan has revised the NEET UG 2025 Counselling Schedule confirming the new date of seat allotment. Rajasthan NEET UG Round 1 Allotment The NEET UG Medical and Dental Admission Counseling Board 2025 Rajasthan was supposed to publish the result of the NEET UG 2025 Round 1 Allotment (MBBS and BDS only) on August 10, 2025. The Board, however, postponed it to a new date. As per the Rajasthan NEET UG 2025 Round 1 allotment revised schedule, the MBBS and BDS round 1 allotment result will now be published on August 18, 2025. The candidates, who are allotted seats in Rajasthan Round 1 MBBS / BDS Couselling 2025, should download allotment letter from August 19 to 24, 2025. "Deposition of prescribed one year tuition fee by allotted candidates, and Reporting, document submission (including prescribed eligibility criteria) at the allotted college desk at Academic Block, SMS Medical College, Jaipur is August 19 to 24, 2025", the Board said. Rajasthan NEET UG 2025 Choice Filling The NEET UG Medical and Dental Admission Counseling Board 2025 Rajasthan had earlier published the Merit List of candidates on August 05, 2025, and asked them to submit choice and college options from August 05 to 11, 2025. As per the Rajasthan Medical and Dental Medical Counselling Revised Schedule, the NEET UG 2025 Revised Merit List on August 12, and asked students to submit options using choice filling form August 12 to 14, 2025. "Choices filled by candidates will be auto-locked at 11:50 PM on August 14, 2025", the Board said. The candidates should note that the NEET UG 2025 Allotment Result (Round 1) will be based on options submitted by the candidates. Rajasthan NEET UG 2025 Counseling Online Registration Meanwhile, the NEET UG Medical and Dental Admission Counseling Board 2025 Rajasthan originally started online registration of students who wish to participate in the 2025 medical counseling from July 28. The registration was re-opened on August 07, 2025 as per the revised schedule. As per the revised schedule, registration window was open from August 07 to 09, 2025. Candidates should note that the counselling schedule for Round 2 of Rajasthan NEET UG 2025 will be released after the completition of first round. Candidates should note that Round 2 counselling will be held in offline mode. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic BOSTON (Aug. 13, 2025) Harvard University is close to a $500 million settlement with the Trump administration that would restore its access to federal funding and resolve a months-long dispute over alleged antisemitism on campus, according to PBS NewsHour. The settlement would be the largest of its kind under the administration's campus civil rights enforcement. Half of the payment is expected to be directed toward workforce and vocational programs, with the rest going to the federal government. Negotiations follow an April decision by federal officials to suspend roughly $2.6 billion in research grants and revoke certain contracts over what they said was Harvard's failure to address antisemitism. The administration also threatened to block the university from enrolling international students and, at one point, to seize or license Harvard-owned patents. Harvard has denied wrongdoing and filed lawsuits challenging the funding suspension, calling it politically motivated. President Alan Garber has said the university is pursuing a legal resolution and has rejected any agreement that would compromise academic freedom. The reported deal would exceed other recent university settlements, including Columbia University's $200 million and Brown University's $50 million agreements with the administration. Terms of the Harvard settlement are still being finalized, and both sides have not publicly confirmed when it might be signed. Vietnam Briefing has developed into a premium source for insight on doing business in Vietnam. It publishes business news concerning foreign direct investment into Vietnam, including the most important tax, legal and accounting issues. The Vietnam Briefing Magazine was first published in 2009, and is contributed to by investment professionals based in Vietnam. Italy organises another humanitarian air bridge between Gaza and Rome, bringing the number of Palestinian children to receive medical care in Italian hospitals to 180. Three special Italian air force flights carrying 31 seriously ill and injured Palestinian children from war-torn Gaza arrived overnight in Italy where they will receive medical treatment. The humanitarian mission, which also saw the evacuation of 83 relatives of the sick children, was organised by the Italian government in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and EU authorities. This is the 14th medical evacuation conducted by Italy since January 2024 and the largest operation of its kind to date, according to the foreign ministry, which stated that the young patients all suffer from serious congenital diseases or significant wounds and amputations. Six children and their family members landed on Wednesday night at Rome's Ciampino airport where they were met by deputy premier and foreign minister Antonio Tajani, and Salameh Ashour, Imam of the Palestinian community in Lazio. "It is with deep emotion that I welcome this evening another group of Palestinian children evacuated from the Strip who will be treated in our country" - Tajani told reporters - "We will continue to support the civilian population of Gaza and work towards peace." Si e conclusa stanotte la piu grande operazione di evacuazione sanitaria realizzata da gennaio 2024 con l'atterraggio a Ciampino, Milano e Pisa di tre velivoli della #Difesa con a bordo 31 bambini e 83 accompagnatori provenienti dalla Striscia di Gaza. I pazienti, insieme ai loro pic.twitter.com/1lpF5ep4M9 Ministero Difesa (@MinisteroDifesa) August 14, 2025 Ambulances were waiting at Ciampino to transfer the children to hospitals, with three going to Bambino Gesu in Rome, two to Santobono in Naples and one to Perugia's Azienda Ospedaliera. Two other Italian air force planes carrying sick children from Gaza departed from Eilat airport in southern Israel, landing in Milan and Pisa late on Wednesday. These children will receive medical treatment at various hospitals in the regions of Liguria, Lombardia, Tuscany, Umbria and Veneto. The initiative extends Italy's humanitarian activities for civilians in the Gaza Strip, as part of the 'Food for Gaza' project, to include medical and healthcare assistance. This latest medical evacuation will bring to 180 the number of children from Gaza and their families (580 people in total) welcomed in Italy as part of the country's humanitarian operations. In a statement, the foreign ministry said Italy is "the fourth country in the worldand the first in Europeto have organised air evacuations and the transfer of patients from the Strip to specialised hospitals." Photo Ministero della Difesta Tour guide noticed the tourist pocketing stones. A 51-year-old Scottish tourist has been charged with aggravated theft after stealing six pieces of stone during a tour of Pompeii archaeological park in Italy. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening after a tour guide noticed the visitor pocketing several pieces of pavement from the streets of the ancient city which was buried under volcanic ash and pumice from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The guide immediately alerted park management and security guards, providing a description of the tourist who had placed the stones in his backpack. Security staff in turn informed the Carabinieri police who quickly tracked down the tourist outside the archaeological site, near the Viila dei Misteri railway station. Pompei: sequestrate pietre nascoste nello zaino da un turista https://t.co/V4c65Z3OLT pic.twitter.com/ycZl7q7R4g Pompeii Sites (@pompeii_sites) August 14, 2025 Inside the man's bag were the illicit souvenirs: five pieces of stone and a fragment of brick stolen from Pompeii. The items were subsequently returned to park authorities who hailed the "team effort" in preventing the tourist from getting away. "Congratulations and thanks to the attentive tour guide, to our excellent custodians and security staff, and to the Carabinieri for this collaborative effort to protect our heritage," the director of the archaeological park, Gabriel Zuchtriegel, said in a statement. Guilt-ridden tourists Over the years numerous tourists have stolen artefacts from Pompeii, with some returning them, often many years later. Although most tourists do so out of guilt, others do so for superstitious reasons. In 2020 a Canadian tourist returned artefacts stolen from Pompeii 15 years earlier, to shake off the curse that has fallen on me and my family." Pompeii even has a special display area to exhibit returned artefacts alongside remorse-laden letters, such as one from a Spanish tourist who had stolen a piece of decorated plaster that became "a harbinger of family misadventures and misfortunes." Photo Pompeii Sites X In the corridors of University Hospital Waterford, Dr. Momin Hilles goes about his shift with focus and urgency, attending to everything from sporting injuries after local hurling matches to road traffic accidents and medical emergencies. Since arriving in Waterford in February 2024, the 29-year-old doctor has become a valued member of the hospitals Emergency Department team, known for his steady hand and compassionate care. What many patients and colleagues may not know is that Momins journey to Ireland came at an extraordinary cost financial, emotional, and personal. He is from Gaza, and was offered this position in University Hospital Waterford shortly after this current genocide began. It cost $8,500 for him to escape. And today, while he works tirelessly to care for people in Waterford and across the southeast of Ireland, he carries the weight of unimaginable grief, fear, and loss. I feel very supported by the people I work with, he says. It is their support, and the passion I have for my job, that gets me through each day because my parents and seven sisters are still in Gaza and I have no way to help them. A new life in Waterford Momin arrived in Waterford in early 2024 after securing a position in the emergency department at UHW. With the help of a fundraising campaign set up by a friend of his in the UK, Momin was able to pay the exit fee required by Israeli authorities to leave Gaza a fee most Palestinians cannot afford, even if they are lucky enough to secure a job abroad. His sister, a radiologist, also hoped to pursue work in Ireland but was unable to leave Gaza. The situation had become too dangerous by that time, Momin says. Back in Gaza, Momins family his parents and seven sisters remain displaced. Their home was destroyed in an airstrike. All basic infrastructure is gone: electricity, water, roads, and medicine. His mother requires urgent medical treatment she cannot access. His father has lost 40kg due to starvation almost half his body weight. Momin has lost more than 100 members of his extended family during this genocide cousins, uncles, aunts etc. In Gaza today, everyone has lost someone, he says. Many have lost everyone. Im the only boy in my family. I grew up surrounded by my sisters, who are wonderful, kind, intelligent women. We had a normal, happy childhood, he says. Now they are just trying to simply survive this unimaginable atrocity, and the only reason they are still alive is sheer luck. Bearing witness Momins story was recently shared on Deise Today with Damien Tiernan on WLR, on Newstalk with Sean Defoe, and on Beat 102 103 with Aoife Kearns. In each interview, he spoke clearly about what he had witnessed in Gaza and what he continues to learn through daily contact with his family. The public response was immediate messages of support from Waterford and across Ireland poured in. Listeners were struck by Momins sincerity, his humanity, and the dissonance between the man saving lives in Waterford and the devastation unfolding in his homeland. The reality in Gaza Momin does not describe what is happening in Gaza as a war. Its a genocide, he says. Since October 2023, Israel has imposed a total blockade on Gaza, cutting off food, water, fuel, medicine, and electricity. 62,000 people have been killed. Mass starvation is widespread. People arent dying just from bombs, Momin explains. Theyre dying from preventable hunger and disease too. Even when limited aid is allowed in, accessing it is life-threatening. There have been many cases where people queuing for food were shot and killed, he says. Some write goodbye letters to their families before going out to collect food because they dont know if theyll come back. Dr. Momin Hilles in studio in WLR FM during his interview on Deise Today with Damien Tiernan. He cites one particularly harrowing example relating to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), an organisation established in early 2025 by Israel to allegedly coordinate and distribute aid into Gaza. Since the GHF launched, not a single day has passed without mass killings of civilians waiting in line for food, Momin says. People queue for hours, desperate, and unarmed, and they are shot. Independent investigations, including a June 2025 report from Al Jazeera, have confirmed that Israeli soldiers were ordered to shoot at unarmed civilians seeking aid, particularly at GHF distribution points. Some survivors reported people being gunned down at close range as they waited for flour or rice. Earlier this month, a group of United Nations human rights experts issued an urgent call for the immediate dismantling of the GHF, describing it as: An utterly disturbing example of how humanitarian relief can be exploited for covert military and geopolitical agendas in serious breach of international law. (Source: United Nations OHCHR, 13 August 2025) They further noted that the GHF has become a mechanism for controlling and manipulating civilian movement under the guise of humanitarian assistance, creating deadly traps rather than safe lifelines. Its not aid, Momin says. Its entrapment. "People are being killed just for trying to survive. While Gaza remains in the headlines, Momin fears that many people are becoming overwhelmed numbed by the scale of devastation, paralysed by helplessness, and unsure of how to respond. People care deeply, but they feel powerless, he says. And when people feel powerless, they do nothing. That silence is just as dangerous. More than Gaza Momin is quick to point out that what is happening today did not begin on October 7, 2023. The world may just now be paying attention because of this current genocide, but Palestinians have been suffering since 1948, he says. Momin is 29 years old. He has lived through multiple Israeli military assaults in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2021, and now this ongoing genocide since 2023. Each time, there is more displacement, more killing, more attempts to erase who we are, he says. Although media coverage often frames the crisis as an IsraelHamas war, Momin urges people to look beyond that lens. If this is truly about Hamas, he asks, how do we explain whats happening in the West Bank where Hamas has no control and no military presence? In the West Bank, occupation continues through daily land annexation, home demolitions, and the routine killing of civilians. More than 320 Palestinian children under the age of 17 are currently being held in Israeli prisons, many without charge or trial. One such case is Ahmed Manasra, who was arrested at the age of 13 and spent almost 10 years in prison, facing both physical and psychological abuse. When he was finally released earlier this year, his family was waiting at the gates of the prison to take him home, but the Israeli military instead abandoned him 50 kilometres away on deserted land. Amnesty International has frequently pointed to Manasras case as a clear example of the systemic human rights violations experienced by Palestinian children in the Israeli military justice system. These stories arent the exception, Momin says. Theyre the rule. So if its not about Hamas, then what is it about? He then answers his own question, Its about erasing an entire people. A call for political action In Ireland, Momin has reached out to several TDs seeking help to evacuate his family to Jordan or Egypt ideally with a path to Ireland, where his sisters, including a physiotherapist, radiologist and IT specialist, one of whom has already been offered a position in University Hospital Limerick, would qualify for Critical Skills Employment Permits and could immediately contribute to the Irish health system. Before speaking on local, regional and national radio, only one office that of Senator John Cummins responded, and referred the matter to the Department of Foreign Affairs. No further contact has been received. Requests to other representatives, including Mary Butler and Conor McGuinness, received no reply. However, following the radio interviews, Conor McGuinness replied offering to make a recommendation to the Department of Foreign Affairs on Momins behalf. Momin also got a response from Tanaiste Micheal Martins office with a referral to Minister Simon Harris. No reply was received from Minister Harriss office. Im not asking for charity, Momin says. Im asking for safety. For my family, and other families like mine, to have the same chance I was given to live and work here in Ireland, to contribute in a meaningful way to society, and to have safety and dignity. What can we do? Momins message to the Irish public is clear: donations, while generous, are not enough. Aid cant reach people under blockade, he says. We are feeding a limited number of people scraps at night, only for them to be killed in the morning. What we need is political pressure now. He urges people to contact their TDs and Senators to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Even just one message, one email, can help keep the pressure on. The silence is killing us. He also cautions that donations alone are not helping right now. Irish people are donating generously. But they need to know that aid is not reaching the people who need it. The blockade makes it almost impossible for food or medical supplies to get into Gaza. Even wealthy families, with money, cant buy food or water. Theres nothing to buy. The money is useless. Charities are doing their best, but what can they do if they cant get access to the people who need their help? he asks. In some cases, aid is hoarded or traded. And the families who are starving never see it. This is not just a humanitarian crisis. Its a political one. And if the violence and blockades dont stop, the donations wont change anything. A brother, a son, a doctor, a survivor Back in UHW, Momin returns to work. He treats patients with care and dedication. But behind each shift lies the knowledge that his family is still living under bombs, starvation and disease, without food or protection. This is not just a Palestinian story, he says. This is a human story. Im a son, a brother, a doctor. I want what everyone wants to work, to live in peace, and to keep my family safe. Even here in Ireland, Momin says the trauma follows him. When I hear a plane overhead, I still freeze, he says. That fear never fully leaves your body. Momins courage in sharing his story has already touched many across Ireland. But he knows that goodwill alone is not enough. Whats happening in Gaza is not a conflict. It is not a war. It is a genocide, he says. And it will not end unless we demand that it does. Ozempic, which came onto the market in late 2017, led to substantial weight loss and quickly attracted cultural cachet, not least because of its use among celebrities. TikTok videos documenting peoples experience with Ozempic attracted millions of views. Analysts predicted that it could tap into an enormous market, since 1 billion people in the world are considered obese. In the first half of the year, Novo Nordisk made $US10 billion in sales from Ozempic, of which 70 per cent was in the United States. Novo Nordisk spent nearly a century in relative obscurity, known mostly to diabetes patients and physicians as the producer of half the worlds insulin. That changed with Ozempic. Credit: Bloomberg For a company that had been focused on the steady business of selling insulin, the popularity of Ozempic took its executives by surprise. In 2021, they started selling Wegovy, semaglutide marketed specifically for weight loss, but demand was so high that the company struggled to meet it. That shortage opened a whole can of worms, said Rajesh Kumar, an analyst at HSBC. An FDA decision opens the door for copycats In 2022, semaglutide landed on the Food and Drug Administrations shortage list, which spurred production of cheaper copycat versions of Novo Nordisks drugs. To ensure the supply of medicines facing shortages, US federal law allows companies to produce versions of patented drugs via a process of mixing ingredients called compounding. Loading The FDA said this year that the shortage was over and ordered producers and sellers of the copycat weight-loss drugs to wind down. But Novo Nordisk said that never happened. Compounders have continued to offer what they call personalised versions of the drugs, a legally murky practice that they claim is allowed by the law. Novo Nordisk said last week that more than 1 million people were still using compounded GLP-1s, eating into the companys market share and forcing it to slash sales and profit forecasts. Its shares promptly dropped more than 20 per cent, erasing more than $US70 billion ($107 billion) in market value in a day, and some analysts lowered their recommendations on the company. One of them was Kumar, who had been advising investors to buy Novo Nordisks shares for at least two years before downgrading last week to hold. Compounding was part of the reason. Novo is issuing a lot of cease-and-desist orders, but it has been very difficult to stop them, he said, adding he had never seen compounding at this scale before. On Wednesday, Novo Nordisk said it had filed 14 new lawsuits against compounders the day before. Its important that we get compounding off the market because right now it has equal size of our business, said Lars Fruergaard Jorgensen, the departing CEO. Compounders, in particular, have targeted Wegovy because it was the most well-known brand, Kumar said. That has helped Eli Lilly to get an edge. Eli Lilly catches up, and then some Novo Nordisk had a huge head start. After Ozempic went on sale, it was another 4 years before a serious competitor emerged: Eli Lillys Mounjaro, the brand name for tirzepatide, a drug used to treat diabetes. Mounjaro proved to be more effective, leading to greater weight loss in clinical trials. Many patients said they preferred it. At the start of this year, Eli Lillys Zepbound, which is tirzepatide marketed for weight loss, passed Wegovy in new prescriptions in the United States, according to IQVIA, an analytics company. Unlike Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly also found ways to get its product to consumers more cheaply, and compete with telehealth companies offering compounded copycat versions, by selling its drug in vials with syringes instead of the more expensive pens with prefilled doses. Novo Nordisk seems unable to keep ahead of competition from American drugmaker Eli Lilly and the prevalence of cheap copycat versions. Credit: Bloomberg Novo Nordisk was further hampered by its slowness in introducing a direct-to-consumer sales platform. NovoCare Pharmacy launched in March, 14 months after LillyDirect. Lilly was doing all these things, and Novo wasnt, said Emily Field, an analyst at Barclays, who recently downgraded the stock. It felt like a lot of this was one big own goal, she said. Novos pipeline struggles to impress More than anything, a companys market value is determined by investors expectations for earnings in the future. For a pharmaceutical company, that means the drugs in its pipeline. This has helped Eli Lillys stock outperform Novo Nordisks this year. Loading Investors and analysts are particularly interested in the prospects of weight-loss pills, which could reach more patients than injections. Eli Lillys daily pill, orforglipron, has been showing promising results in late-stage clinical trials, with similar weight loss to Novo Nordisks injections and fewer restrictions on its use. Novo Nordisks oral tablet leads to less weight loss than its injections, but the company has other pills in development. On Thursday, Eli Lilly said its orforglipron tablets led to 12 per cent weight loss, slightly less than analysts expected, which dented Eli Lillys shares and gave Novo Nordisks a boost. But Eli Lilly also raised its overall earnings forecast for the year, on greater demand for Zepbound. In developing its pipeline, Eli Lilly is deploying capital and running faster than Novo in a market that isnt going to be patient in any way, said Seamus Fernandez, an analyst at Guggenheim Partners. Can a new leader make a difference? New Novo Nordisk chief Maziar Mike Doustdar. Credit: AP The Novo Nordisk Foundation, which controls Novo Nordisk through its holding company, has also grown impatient. At the foundations urging, Jorgensen, who had been CEO of the company since Ozempic came onto the market, stepped down. Maziar Mike Doustdar took over the top role on Thursday, the first non-Dane to run the company. Doustdar, an Iranian-born Austrian citizen who grew up in the United States, joined the company in 1992, for what he thought would be a summer job making photocopies. He has a bias for speed, for pace and for action, Helge Lund, the chair of the board of directors, said when announcing Doustdars appointment. Loading Concerns are mounting that analysts may have overestimated the potential size of the weight-loss market, or at least how easily more people will gain access to these drugs. At the same time, US President Donald Trump is pressuring companies to lower drug prices and threatening tariffs on medicines produced abroad, casting a cloud over pharma firms business models. I still believe theres a big market, said Powell of Polar Capital, which invests in Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. But broad concerns about the market are hitting Novo Nordisk hardest, he added. 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. Marianne* suffered years of psychological manipulation, sexual coercion and financial abuse at the hands of her ex-husband. After they separated, the intimidation ramped up. In her darkest moments, she reached out to a few good friends through Facebook and they came to her emotional rescue. When a good friend asked what they could do to help her, Marianne asked if one of them could accompany her to court. She organised about 15 people to turn up to court with me, and they just stood with me and made me feel safe and supported, Marianne says. Normally Id go into court and Id feel victimised, scared and alone, but on this day, I was laughing and chatting. It turned out to be one of the best days. It can be difficult to know how to best support a domestic violence victim-survivor but you can start with listening. Credit: Getty Images Marianne says her friends support didnt end there. She has also set up crowdfunding to help Marianne pay for her legal fees and has been a constant good listener. 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. Loading 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 Social media accounts attributed to 13-year-old girls amassed hundreds of messages from suspicious accounts in the span of a few weeks, receiving explicit images, sexual messages and requests for personal information. But one account received five times more interactions from potential predators than another. The difference came down to a photo and a message that their parents managed their account. Researchers set up for fake teen honeypot profiles. Predators flocked to one. Credit: Marija Ercegovac/University College London Researchers from the University College London, led by PhD candidate Somaya Alwejdani, created honeypot profiles to test what factors led potential predators to message children. The researchers set up four fake accounts, using an AI-generated picture of a girl or a generic avatar, and indicating whether a parent managed the account or not. The largest producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) on the east coast of Australia wants the federal government to force east coast producers shipping gas overseas to set some aside for local use. In a submission to the governments review of the nations gas market, Australia Pacific LNG (APLNG) says an export licensing and permitting regime that guarantees supply for the domestic market is the best way to tackle concerns around looming supply shortfalls and higher prices. The proposal, to be submitted to the governments review on Friday, comes amid widespread fears of gas supply shortages in Victoria and NSW which the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission warned could occur by the winter of 2028, and long-running concerns that too much gas is being shipped overseas instead of kept onshore. APLNG says the change would help avoid supply shortfalls. APLNG a joint venture between Australias Origin Energy, US giant ConocoPhillips and Chinas Sinopec said it was crucial a new market framework discouraged producers buying gas from the domestic market to ship overseas. 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. What in the World, a free weekly newsletter from our foreign correspondents, is sent every Thursday. Below is an excerpt. Sign up to get the whole newsletter delivered to your inbox. Surrey, England: Greetings from the Hand & Spear Hotel in Surrey, England. Im sitting in the kind of pub where you could relax all afternoon and forget to go home. The shelves behind me are lined with books and I sink into a leather armchair waiting for an old friend to join me for lunch. I feel at home as soon as I arrive: the music is low, the lighting is soft, and the air is cool on a hot summers day. Sitting here, you could feel sure that all was right with the world. David Crowe meets Shaun Hopkins at the Hand & Spear Hotel in Surrey, England. Credit: David Crowe But Im at this pub to discuss a place where so much is all wrong. Im catching up with Shaun Hopkins, a tech worker and aid volunteer, on his return from the eastern edge of Ukraine. The Hand & Spear, in a small forest in Weybridge, is the best place to meet: I can get the train from London, and he can turn off the M25 without messing with city traffic. 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. Oxfam said it had more than $3.8 million in supplies that Israel had rejected from entering Gaza, including hygiene items and food. Anera, a US aid group, said it had supplies worth $10.7 million blocked in Ashdod, 15 kilometres from Gaza, including 744 tonnes of rice, enough for 6 million meals. Loading The aid groups said Israel had changed rules in ways that meant most non-government organisations had been unable to move supplies into Gaza since March 2, and they blamed the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation set up with Israeli government approval for making things worse. Under the GHF system, Israel has replaced about 400 aid distribution points overseen by the United Nations with four points overseen by the Israeli military. Tinkler said donations were still needed despite the blockages. My message to Australians is dont give up. In our case, the hundreds of staff that we do have on the ground are still delivering life-saving support. Still, its not enough, he said. Anera chief executive Sean Carroll, who was chief of staff at USAID for three years during the Obama administration, said the solution was to allow thousands of trucks to move aid across the border. The militarised food distribution scheme has weaponised starvation and curated suffering. Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa, MSF At this point, everyone knows what the correct, humane answer is, and its not a floating pier, airdrops or the GHF, he said. The answer, to save lives, save humanity and save yourselves from complicity in engineered mass starvation, is to open all the borders, at all hours, to the thousands of trucks, millions of meals and medical supplies, ready and waiting nearby, he said. Medecins Sans Frontieres said the GHF aid distribution had led to extreme levels of violence and killings, and this was mostly of young Palestinian men, as well as some women and children. The militarised food distribution scheme has weaponised starvation and curated suffering, said Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa, the MSF emergency co-ordinator in Gaza, in the joint statement. Smoke rises from an Israeli army airstrike east of Khan Younis on Wednesday. Credit: AP The Israeli registration rules require the aid groups to disclose a deeper level of detail about all their operations, including the names of Palestinians involved, something the aid groups are unwilling to do. Meanwhile, Israeli gunfire killed at least 25 people seeking aid in Gaza, health officials and witnesses said on Thursday, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again called for what he refers to as the voluntary migration of Palestinians from the war-ravaged territory. 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. Arab leaders 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 the 1948 war. South Sudans Foreign Ministry has denied being in talks with Israel to resettle Palestinians from Gaza. Earlier this week, the Associated Press, citing six people with knowledge of the matter, reported that Israel was holding discussions to resettle Palestinians in the East African nation. Military misgivings Israels 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. Loading The New York Times reported that Israels top military commander, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, who officials say has cast doubt on the planned new offensive, is under increasing pressure, with one minister criticising him over the promotion of top officers and another suggesting he could be fired. Zamir was worried about the exhaustion and fitness of reservists, risking the lives of Israeli hostages and potentially asking troops to govern millions of Palestinians, the newspaper cited officials speaking on the condition of anonymity as saying. Nonetheless, Israels security cabinet backed the plan. The enclave has sustained massive fatalities from the nearly two-year war, with more than 61,000 deaths reported by the Hamas-run Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The latest deaths came a day after the Gaza Health Ministry reported 123 deaths over 24 hours, the worst figure in a week. Shot while fleeing Among those killed while seeking aid on Wednesday were 14 Palestinians in the Teina area, about three kilometres from a food distribution site run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, staff at Nasser Hospital said. Hashim Shamalah said Israeli troops opened fire as people tried to get through, and many were shot and fell while fleeing. Israeli gunfire killed five other Palestinians while they were trying to reach another GHF distribution site in the Netzarim corridor area, according to Awda hospital and witnesses. The Israeli military said it was not aware of any casualties in that area, and the GHF said there were no incidents at or near its sites. Eight more people, including three children, had died of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza in the past 24 hours, the territorys Health Ministry said, taking the total to 235, including 106 children, since the war began. Israel disputes the ministrys figures. Credible reports of sexual violence Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that Israel, along with Russia, could be added to a list of countries suspected of, or responsible for, sexual violence in armed conflict. In a letter to Israels permanent representative to the UN, Guterres said a UN report found credible information of violations by Israeli armed and security forces, perpetrated against Palestinians in several prisons, a detention centre and military base. Under the framework of the EU-WCO Rules of Origin (RoO) Africa Programme, funded by the European Union, the World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with the European Technical Assistance Facility (EU-TAF) support to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), held a national training workshop on rules of origin for Comoros. The workshop was held in Moroni, Comoros, from 28 July to 1 August 2025 with the objective to assist Comoros in enhancing its knowledge and application of preferential rules of origin. The workshop saw the participation of Comoros Customs, the Ministry of Economy, Industry, Investment and Economic Integration, and the Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture. In his opening remarks, Mr. Said Hamza Youssouf, acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Economy, Industry, Investment and Economic Integration, expressed his appreciation to the EU and the WCO for their continued support. He stressed that rules of origin are important for the development of regional and continental value chains, and that a dynamic Customs administration is necessary for the implementation and application of the AfCFTA and other free trade agreements. During the workshop, participants worked on key concepts for proper origin determination, related operational and procedural issues, including origin certification and origin irregularities, as well as the establishment of efficient origin management. In addition, participants discussed specific areas of concern, including the low level of knowledge and use of the FTAs and challenges linked to verification of origin including trough administrative cooperation. They also discussed recommendations for better management and implementation of rules of origin on a national and regional level. Participants engaged actively and greatly appreciated the opportunity given by the workshop to exchange knowledge and experiences and stressed that this training would contribute to trade facilitation as well as fair and efficient revenue collection. The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will continue its work with various stakeholders in Comoros to equip them with extended knowledge for efficient implementation and application of rules or origin. The next steps in the competency development will cover an advanced training followed by a Training of Trainers on rules of origin. For further information please contact EU-WCORoOAfrica.Program@wcoomd.org Under the framework of the EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme, funded by the European Union, the World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), held a Training of Trainers workshop on rules of origin for Zimbabwe Customs. The workshop was held in Harare, Zimbabwe, from 4 to 8 August 2025 with the objective to assist Zimbabwe Customs in enhancing its knowledge and application of preferential rules of origin and contribute to a seamless implementation of the AfCFTA and other relevant FTAs. This workshop forms part of a comprehensive technical assistance and capacity building partnership with ZIMRA in its capacity as a WCO Regional Training Center and builds on the acquis from intermediate and advanced trainings conducted since 2024. The support provided under the RoO Africa Programme allows for the deployment of wide-ranging capacity building activities, to enhance the infrastructure and capacity in relation to rules of origin. The workshop provided participants with an opportunity to refine their knowledge of rules of origin, while also enhancing their skills in designing and delivering effective training sessions. The workshop offered the participants a unique opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of origin-related topics through group and individual presentations, incorporating facilitation and communication skills acquired from WCO experts. At the conclusion of the workshop, the WCO experts offered constructive feedback to participants, highlighting areas for improvement and praising their success in applying newly acquired skills to develop training materials and deliver a training session. In the margins of the workshop, the experts met Ms Regina Chinamasa, Commissioner General of ZIMRA, and other management representatives to discuss the impact of the comprehensive technical assistance received as well as further needs and the way forward. The CG thanked the WCO for the assistance and indicated that some of the expected gains were improvement in revenue mobilization and enhanced trust in the administration. The new trainers will get opportunities to train at the RTC as well as deliver training for stakeholders to enhance private sector compliance. The EU-WCO RoO Africa Programme will continue its work with ZIMRA to equip Customs officials and relevant stakeholders with extended knowledge for efficient implementation and application of rules of origin. For further information please contact EU-WCORoOAfrica.Program@wcoomd.org Reddit seems to think Colorado is the 'least hated' state in U.S. here's why Accelerated bachelors degrees coming to Weber State, saving time and costs August 14, 2025 OGDEN, Utah This year, Weber State University will begin offering students in some disciplines a way to earn bachelors degrees on an accelerated timeline, within three years or less. With recent approval from WSUs accreditation body, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the university can now offer bachelors degrees that require around 90 credits versus 120 credits, which for decades has been the standard to earn a four-year degree. This move makes Weber State the first public university in Utah to offer an accelerated or sub-120 credit bachelors degree. WSU President Brad Mortensen said that targeted accelerated bachelors degrees are a welcome change to meet shifting needs of both students and employers and something WSU has been exploring since at least 2022. As much as our students love learning at Weber State, we know theyre eager to earn that degree and transition into their careers, Mortensen said. Providing accelerated pathways in select programs saves time and money while achieving the same learning outcomes. This is one more innovative way Weber State is making sure college is what it should be: accessible, affordable, achievable, and uplifting. Starting this fall, WSU will offer a Bachelor of Applied Politics, Philosophy & Economics, which requires 9091 credits. This interdisciplinary degree is designed for students pursuing careers in politics, public policy, and law, with a unique focus on Utah state and local government. The program equips graduates with analytical, communication, and decision-making skills that are in high demand across public and private sectors. Pending accreditor approval, WSU plans to offer an accelerated bachelors degree in sound production and recording that requires 9394 credits. The hands-on degree builds on the existing associates program in sound production, meant for students looking to launch careers in audio engineering, live sound, or media production. Students interested in this program can start by signing up for classes in the associate degree this fall. Aaron Hubbard, sound production and recording coordinator, said the program offers skills that employers are actively seeking out. Even at an accelerated pace, Hubbard said WSU students will get the full college experience, which will help them gain entry and advancement in a growing industry. For now, most bachelors degree programs at WSU will continue with the traditional 120 credits, but Mortensen said many departments have expressed interest in offering these degrees on a quicker timeline. Accelerated degrees could shave off one year and roughly $6,500 dollars for WSU students, without sacrificing the best of their college experience, said Leslie Durham, WSU provost. This is generating a lot of excitement because it reflects Weber States mission to expand access and support student success by meeting learners where they are and offering more flexible options, Durham said. She also noted that earning degrees with fewer credits wont be at the expense of general education courses that prepare students for their careers and life after college. Weber States approach to accelerated degrees is unique, said Jessica Oyler, vice president of Student Access & Success. Weber developed a model thats focused heavily on internships and hands-on learning, so its taking those classroom concepts and really bringing them to life, she said. Oyler also noted that WSU had already offered several ways to earn degrees at a faster pace, including concurrent enrollment. Through courses made available in high school, 40% of students come to WSU with at least a semesters worth of credits under their belt, saving them over $3,000. Students can also earn credit before they step foot on campus through Prior Learning Assessments, which offer credit for things like military service, religious missions, and community service when they align with program outcomes. Additionally, Weber State has options for accelerated masters degrees, where a students senior year in a bachelors program overlaps with the first year of their masters program, making it possible to earn both degrees within five years. WSU leadership stressed that accelerated bachelors degrees dont have to limit where students go after graduation, including transitioning to graduate programs. Were aware of several hundred schools nationally that said they will accept these degrees, Mortensen said. Were seeing more and more accelerated programs popping up across the country because universities like Weber State are taking a hard look at the future of higher education and doing whats best for students. The university expects several more programs to offer accelerated bachelors degrees within the next couple of years. For more information, visit the Office of the Registrars website. Movie rundown for the weekend of Aug. 14-17: A look at what's playing on the big screen If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Parrish House Baroque, a Colorado Springs quartet that focuses on early music, will perform while attendees do English country dancing, like they did in Jane Austen times. Dancing not required. The Regency Ball and reception is Saturday at First Lutheran Church and The Peel House. On July 19th last, in the beautiful setting of Enniscoe House and grounds, Minister Dara Calleary officially launched The Tain Bo Fliodhaise Cattle Raid of Mayo Heritage Trail and Guidebook. The event brought to fruition the ongoing efforts of a voluntary committee which was set up a number of years ago (under the auspices of Comhar Dun Chaochain Teo) and whose members currently are Anthony Brogan, Jim Henry, Treasa Ni Ghearraigh, Micheal O Seighin, Caitlin Ui Sheighin, PJ Lynn, Uinsionn Mac Graith, Pat Mc Loughlin and Billy Lyons. The late Niall King and Jim Gilvarry, whose contributions to the project were immense, were fondly remembered on this special occasion. The aim of the Tain Bo Fliodhaise project steering committee is to highlight and create an awareness of the Mayo Tain or Cattle Raid and bring this epic story to a wider audience. To date, the committee has organised festivals and created links with the community of Argyll in Scotland where the story was written by Medieval scribes in the 15th century. It was first published in the Glenmasan Manuscript, which is held in the Advocates Library in Edinburgh, the National Library of Scotland. This is thought to be a transcript from an earlier 12th century manuscript of the same name. During the early years of the 20th century, the entire story was translated from Gaelic into English by Professor Donald MacKinnon and published over four volumes of a Scottish historical publication known as The Celtic Review. The Tain Bo Fliodhaise Cattle Raid (a reamhsceal or prequel to the great Irish saga Tain Bo Cuailnge) is an adventurous but little known Celtic mythology saga which takes place in County Mayo, primarily the Erris area in the north-west of the county. It describes how a cattle raid brought Queen Meadhbh and her army from Rath Chruachain in County Roscommon on a journey through Mayo to reach their final destination at Rath Muireagain near Glencastle in Erris. The purpose of the raid was to steal away the prized Maol or hummel cow (which was reputed to supply enough milk daily for 300 men, their wives and children) as well as the herds and wealth of the resident Gamhanraidh tribe. Many of the events in this epic story were driven by power, greed, vengeance, deceit and lust. The Tain Bo Fliodhaise Cattle Raid of Mayo Heritage Trail consists of 14 site-specific information panels which have been erected at key locations along the route, starting at Cruachan Ai Visitor Centre in Tulsk in Roscommon and continuing on to Ballyhaunis, Aghamore, Bofeenaun, Lahardaun, Enniscoe, Ballina, Moygownagh, Glencalry, Ballinaboy, Munhin Bridge, Rathmorgan, Glencastle, Barr na Tra and Ceathru Thaidhg. The accompanying guidebook contains a map which shows the sign locations and describes the various events that took place as the story unfolds. The guidebook is now available in Bookstand (formerly Easons), Pangur Ban Bookshop and Mayo North Tourist Office in Ballina, Castle Bookshop in Castlebar, Westcoast Rare Books and Seamus Duffys Bookshop in Westport, Hineys in Crossmolina, The North Mayo Heritage Centre in Enniscoe, Leonards in Lahardaun, Cruachan Ai Visitor Centre in Tulsk, Careys Newsagents in Belmullet and An tSeanscoil in Ceathru Thaidhg (097 88082 or 087-1251642). Many agencies and individuals were involved in developing and launching this project including Comhar Dun Chaochain Teo, Tain Bo Fliodhaise Project Steering Committee, Department of Rural and Community Development, Udaras na Gaeltachta, Mayo County Council, Coillte, Cill Chomain Rural Social Scheme, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Mayo North, Slainte Ireland Tours, Cruachan Ai Visitor Centre, Enniscoe House, the artists Will Sliney and Friz and various community members throughout the county, without whom the project could not have been completed. They are all acknowledged in the book. Following the official launch of the project at Enniscoe House, the large crowd was invited to take a short walk to the information panel which stands on a viewing platform overlooking the National Parks and Wildlife Services resident herd of moiled or maol cattle. In summing up the project, Minister Calleary stated: We have an ancient and rich culture in this country and projects like this one help to keep that culture and heritage alive for natives and visitors. This project seeks to preserve the mythology of our people. 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." A trade organization representing gas stove manufacturers filed a request for a temporary restraining order against the state over a requirement that gas stoves sold at retail have a yellow sticker warning buyers of the purported health risks of using natural gas for cooking. The complaint, filed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, asserted a First Amendment violation over government-compelled speech and sought an injunction against the law. The trade association alleged HB25-1161s labeling requirement unconstitutionally compels its members to convey a message they disagree with. The law went into effect Aug. 1. It requires the yellow label read: "Understand the air quality implications of having an indoor gas stove" and include a QR code to a state website with "information on the health impacts of gas-fueled stoves." The Colorado Attorney Generals Office asked U.S. District Court Judge S. Kato Crews to disregard the associations emergency motion for a temporary restraining order, saying that the complaint violated technical requirements by being too many pages long. Crews on Monday declined to block the Colorado law, instead suggesting the state work with the challengers to voluntarily halt enforcement in the near-term. He noted he was only assigned to the case after the trade association filed its complaint and its motion, so the plaintiffs could not have known about his page limits. The Court strongly encourages Defendants to consider the propriety of a stay of enforcement of HB25-1161 pending a resolution of Plaintiffs anticipated refiled motion for injunctive relief, he wrote. Judge Crews, perhaps appreciating the gravity of the case and constitutional issues raised, strongly encouraged the parties to agree on a stay of enforcement, said AHAM President & CEO Kelly Mariotti in a statement to The Denver Gazette. This is what AHAMs motion requested in the first place, and it is what the parties are working on." The complaint will be refiled by Aug. 19, according to Chris Doscher, AHAM director of communications. When Gov. Jared Polis signed the bill into law on June 4, he included a signing statement in which he said he opposes Colorado-specific labeling requirements especially when it puts us at odds with other states, could disrupt existing product production, or is in an inappropriate place for consumer decisions. Featured Local Savings This bill offers the appropriate place and time for a public health disclosure on the impacts of unvented gas-fueled stoves by informing consumers of the apt information at the point of sale, where a consumer can make an informed choice, Polis added. The associations complaint alleges that the science on the negative health effects of cooking with gas is not settled and that, contrary to claims made by environmental organizations, large scale studies have not linked the use of natural gas for cooking to negative health effects. The group does say that the cooking itself can release small particulates that can affect health, and strongly recommends that stove hoods be vented to the outside. According to the lawsuit, the overwhelming majority of available health research shows there is no association between gas stoves and adverse health outcomes, and most critically when evaluated collectively, fails to demonstrate causation," according to the group's news release. "Indeed, the vast majority of studies conclude that the potential health risks of cooking with gas are no different than cooking with electricity. Polis expressed confidence that the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment will represent scientifically accurate, up-to-date information on all forms of public health information, including the impacts of unvented gas cooking. Asked for a comment on the judges ruling a spokesperson for the governor said: The Governors Office does have not comment on this pending litigation. "We strongly support science-based practices that protect consumers. What we are opposing is a state government compelling private companies to communicate a message that lacks scientific consensus," Mariotti said in the release. "The First Amendment protects not only the right to speak but also the right not to speak, particularly in a way that is misleading. If the labeling requirement remains in place, Coloradans may be persuaded to make decisions based on incomplete and unproven information." The case is Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers v. Hunsaker Ryan et al. Colorado Politics reporter Michael Karlik contributed to this report. Detectives investigating a child molestation case involving a Fremont County man believe there may be more victims and are asking them to come forward, according to a release from the Colorado Springs Police Department. The Fremont County Sheriff's Office arrested Stephen King Sr., 64, on Aug. 4 at his home in Cotopaxi on suspicion of sexual assault and exploitation of a child, the release states. Potential victims and witnesses are encouraged to call police at 719-444-7000 or Pikes Peak Area Crime Stoppers at 719-634-7867. Anti-narcotics federal agents conducted raids in Denver and Colorado Springs on Wednesday, hinting the operations focused on rooting out money-laundering activities. Authorities divulged few details. The DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division, along with our partners from Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, IRS, and our state and local partners conducted law enforcement operations in the Denver and Colorado Springs areas today, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrations Rocky Mountain Division said in a statement late Wednesday. Agents in Colorado Springs seized a phone, bags of cash and computers from multiple El Ranchito restaurant-grocery store locations. It seems like theyre trying to accuse us of money laundering or drugs, but theres absolutely nothing illegal going on here, said David Heurta, an accountant for the business. Its just harassment. Featured Local Savings Authorities declined to provide specific information as to what the raids were about. Witnesses said a dozen or so law enforcement officials entered one of the El Ranchito locations in Colorado Springs Wednesday. A Denver Gazette reporter saw at least four DEA agents carrying a box with papers inside it. Wednesdays investigations follow other actions 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. The FBI and DEA have not responded to requests for comment about the Denver raid. The Aurora Police Department confirmed it assisted federal authorities but did not provide additional information. TC/ESG25 Conference 2025 Call for Proposals When: Monday, 18 August 2025 Where: Start time: 9:00 Enquiries: info.GCI@wits.ac.za RSVP: https://www.transformationscommunity.org/tcesg25-call-for-proposals Join the TC/ESG 2025 Conference, co-organized by the Transformations Community and the Earth System Governance Project, hosted by Wits University. The event will take place from 18-21 August 2025, at Kruger National Park, South Africa and Online Conference from 11-13 August 2025, offering broader accessibility and engagement opportunities. This marks the Transformations Communitys 7th biennial conference and the first to be held in Africa, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate with leading thinkers, gain new insights, and drive real change in sustainability transformations. 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. Featured Local Savings 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. Ukraine and European leaders urge Trump not to strike peace deal in Alaska without them The battering ram that tore through the Denver apartment door of Felicia Gurules family friend, Pops, left more than a mangled lock and splintered wood. It triggered questions in some quarters about constitutional boundaries of immigration raids as well as defense by others of the federal crackdown. Early that morning, federal agents shouted outside unit 301A, DEA! Open the door! Before anyone inside could respond, agents breached the door and tossed in a flashbang. Officials with the Rocky Mountain Field Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have claimed they executed search warrants on Feb. 5 at the Cedar Run Apartments in south Denver, looking for wanted drug traffickers. Federal agents from a joint operation that included DEA, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) appeared to have largely carried out the Feb. 5 raid with limited judicial oversight, according to data reviewed by The Denver Gazette. Residents at the complex maintained they were not shown or given a copy of a warrant, even as attorneys pointed out that the Fourth Amendment says law enforcement may not enter private homes without a warrant signed by a judge. ICE had relied on about two dozen administrative warrants for the raids, plus two judicial warrants. But administrative warrants authorize agents only to make an arrest lawyers said they do not authorize a forced entry. Not everyone views ICEs actions as problematic. Aurora City Councilwoman Danielle Jurinsky said she was aware of at least one person detained and later released on bond by ICE at Whispering Pines, one of three troubled apartment complexes owned by CBZ Management, which nabbed headlines last year over the activities of a Venezuelan gang that gained a foothold in metro Denver. Jurinsky said she doesnt believe federal agents have acted inappropriately. If they are doing things without judicial oversight, that would be concerning to me, Jurinsky said. I have to trust that they are; that they are doing things the right way. Federation for American Immigration Reform, or FAIR, noted ICE can lawfully enter if given consent or under other legal authorities, including criminal warrants, administrative code inspections or exigent circumstances. I would be shocked if ICE were attempting to forcibly enter private residences on an administrative warrant, Matthew OBrien, FAIR deputy executive director said in an email to The Denver Gazette. Based in Washington D.C., the organization says it seeks to restore common sense border controls and reduce overall immigration levels to roughly 300,000 a year. Without knowing the particulars of the entries made in Denver, it is impossible to assess their constitutionality, OBrien said. When it comes to search and seizure issues, the devil is in the details." He added: "And there seems to be a significant amount of commentary being made about actions taken by ICE where the commentators don't have sufficient information to advance the claims they are making. A question of warrants The Feb. 5 raids unfolded more than 600 miles north of the border with Mexico in a city that, until recently, had largely avoided becoming a flashpoint in the national immigration debate. That changed in December 2022, when Denver began receiving waves of immigrants who had illegally crossed America's southern borders. Since then, more than 40,000 have come to the Mile High City, with roughly half staying, according to tickets for travel to leave Colorado. That influx preceded the Trump administrations stepped-up immigration enforcement, including the Feb. 5 raids. That day, ICE relied on 27 administrative warrants, according to documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, or FOIA. DEA agents executed two judicial search warrants, according to Steffan Tubbs, a spokesperson for the DEAs Rocky Mountain Field Division. The DEA has ignored a FOIA request for the search warrant. And the agency has yet to produce those warrants in response to a FOIA request. The FBI declined to say whether the agency had obtained any warrants. To date, none of the judicial warrants have been made public or provided to The Denver Gazette. Everyone in unit 301A that day disputed the DEAs statement that agents used a judicial warrant to enter residents homes. They didnt show nothing, Fernando Martinez had said. They just let themselves in. Tubbs did not respond to questions about why Cedar Run residents said they were not shown or provided a copy of the warrant at the time of the raid a step typically required under federal rules. Several apartment doors at Cedar Run on Feb. 5 showed visible signs of forced entry more than the two DEA judicial warrants would appear to cover including broken frames and missing locks. Several questions remained unanswered. For example, did ICE operate under the DEA or the FBI's judicial warrants? Sources said it's not unusual for ICE to do so, as immigration agents themselves do not breach doors. What were the circumstances that led to the forced entry, assuming officers also broke down other doors, beyond the two units covered by the DEA warrants? Located in southeast Denver, Cedar Run is a 384-unit complex built in 1970 that offers one-and two-bedroom apartments near Cherry Creek. The complex is owned by Gelt Venture Partners, which purchased the property in 2019. Immigration lawyer: An administrative warrant is not a warrant Individuals are protected from unreasonable searches and seizures under the Fourth Amendment. Supported by an oath, warrants are supposed to describe the place to be searched as well as the persons or things seized. The Fourth Amendment protects everyone regardless of citizenship from unreasonable search and seizures. This safeguard means law enforcement may not enter private homes without a warrant signed by a judge, which requires probable cause. Many often argue that administrative warrants an internal document frequently used by immigration authorities do not carry the same force of law as one signed by a judge. That is, an administrative warrant authorizes agents to make an arrest; it does not authorize forced entry without consent. Individuals may deny an officer entry and refuse to comply with an administrative warrant, immigration attorneys, for example, say. In the days following the Feb. 5 raid, The Denver Gazette submitted FOIA requests to ICE, DEA and the FBI seeking copies of the warrants used to justify the forced entry into private residences. Under FOIA, federal agencies have 20 business days to respond. Even with extensions, responses were expected in March. Featured Local Savings DEA officials never acknowledged the FOIA, despite U.S. postal tracking showing the written request was received by the agency. The FBI denied the FOIA request, saying it was too vague. (The Denver Gazette has since submitted additional FOIA requests to the DEA and FBI.) Only ICE responded with public records five months later. The responsive records show ICE agents relied on administrative warrants, not judicial warrants. An administrative warrant is not a warrant, said Hans Meyer, a Denver immigration attorney. It doesnt give them the authority to do this type of thing. Redacted records The newspapers FOIA request asked each of the federal agencies for the apprehension documents and warrants, whether ICE administrative warrants or judicial warrants, used in the operations. ICE officials produced administrative warrants, not judicial, for the 27 individuals the agency sought on Feb. 5. It's not clear if the FBI or the DEA independently secured judicial warrants. The name of the immigrant illegally staying in the U.S., as well as the ICE agent who signed the administrative warrant were redacted, the records showed. Its unclear how common it is to redact the names of ICE officials. A former federal agent told The Denver Gazette that, as part of the redaction process, personnel may be given the option to withhold their names. Immigration attorneys insisted that the Trump administration has struggled with balancing this promise with the transparency necessary to guarantee individuals constitutional rights are also being protected. Democrats shared that view. The governors office, for example, said ICE has been less than transparent. Governor Polis has repeatedly called on the Trump administration and ICE to be more transparent about their operations in our state, and these disclosure requests have repeatedly been ignored by the federal government at the expense of safety in our communities, Shelby Wieman, press secretary for Gov. Jared Polis, said in an email to The Denver Gazette. The redacted administrative warrants ICE provided scant information on the justification and location of the arrest. PHOTOS: El Paso, Juarez border sees influx of immigration, enforcement efforts Immigration between the Juarez and El Paso borders is up in recent years, with shelters, law enforcement and immigrants themselves bearing the At least two of the internal ICE warrants used on Feb. 5 were post-dated April 3 nearly two months after the raid. Only two indicated an immigration judged had ordered removal. Kathleen Bush-Joseph, a policy Analyst at the Migration Policy Institute in Washington D.C, a nonpartisan think tank that conducts research and analysis on immigration policy, said the scale of apprehensions and detentions that the Trump administration is seeking is likely overwhelming the agencies with already stretched resources. Even still, Bush-Joseph called ICEs actions concerning. The implication is that most arrests dont have these safeguards, she said. ICE officials did not respond to multiple emails seeking comment. Vikki Migoya, an FBI spokesperson in Denver, referred questions to the Department of Homeland Security. Trump long promised a crackdown While on the campaign trail, President Donald Trump promised to conduct a mass deportation effort dubbed Operation Aurora unlike the United States has ever seen. Last fall, Aurora was thrust into the national spotlight after the Venezuelan prison gang known as Tren de Aragua (TdA) took over three apartment complexes owned by CBZ Management. The gang has been linked to criminal activities that include human trafficking particularly of immigrant women and girls drug trafficking, kidnapping, and money laundering. The scale and character of immigration enforcement under Trumps second term are reflected in recent data. As of July 27, ICE had nearly 57,000 immigrants detained in facilities about 71% of whom have no criminal conviction, according to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University. The Trump administration is reporting the exact opposite, saying 70% of the people arrested have been charged or convicted of a crime. So far this fiscal year, which runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30, ICE has removed 71,405 immigrants. Thats significantly fewer than the previous fiscal year under the Biden administration, when ICE removed 271,484 immigrants. ICE activities under a partisan scrutiny Concern about these immigration operations appears partisan. On the one hand, Democrats have scrutinized ICE's actions, while Republicans have defended the intensified immigration enforcement. The Trump Administrations illegal mass deportation scheme raises serious constitutional concerns, U.S. Senate Whip Dick Durbin, the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and an Illinois Democrat, told The Denver Gazette. The Senate Judiciary Committee holds oversight authority over ICE. All law enforcement should be required to identify themselves, follow proper procedures for obtaining a warrant, and given arrested individuals a fair opportunity to prove legal status or citizenship, Durbin said. Instead, masked ICE agents have arrested and detained immigrants and even U.S. citizens on the street, at school, at church, and on private property. In no way is that Americanand in no way is it defensible. U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, declined to comment for this story, but he previously condemned what he called left-wing domestic extremists for an Independence Day attack on an ICE facility in Texas, saying they tried to turn that day into a day of tragedy and a day of terrorism. On Twitter, U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert argued that Democrats' priorities are misplaced. "I know it will never happen, but Id love to see Democrats put the same passion into caring about American citizens as they do for criminal illegal aliens!" she said. Back in Colorado, Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly who has worked closely with the DEA and FBI said his experience with those agencies leads him to believe the operations were likely lawful. Ive never known them to be unprofessional or to violate the law, Weekly said. Ive never had any reason to question their ethics or integrity. Benjamin Netanyahu at Chatham House in 2017. [Photo by Chatham House / Flickr / CC BY 2.0 On Tuesday, in an interview aired on Israeli TV station i24, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the statement that his government is allowing Palestinians to leave Gaza during the imminent military offensive. The offensive is aimed at forcing everyone out of the most populated areas of the Strip, including Gaza City, and driving them into the zone near the border with Egypt. Netanyahu cynically framed this as an offer of voluntary migration. Speaking in a manner that reeked of supremacy, the prime minister said: Give them the opportunity to leave! First, from combat zones, and also from the Strip if they want. We are not pushing them out but allowing them to leave. The fascist leaders words, delivered in the context of the Israeli militarys plans for the complete control and annexation of Gaza, were part of a strategy endorsed and supported by the imperialist powers with the completely lying rubric of choice and humanitarian concern. However, masses of people internationally recognize these as euphemisms for genocide, ethnic cleansing and forced displacement on a massive scale. The new phase of the Israeli military campaign in Gaza involves the occupation of the entire Strip, and it is being discussed as the final phase. Earlier this month, the Israeli Security Cabinet formally approved a plan led by Netanyahu to occupy areas of Gaza that they do not currently control. The northern zone around Gaza City is densely populated and, despite relentless bombardment, is considered key to Israels plans for complete control. The military operation aims to forcibly relocate all Palestiniansover 1 million people currently confined largely to the central and western parts of Gaza Cityinto designated humanitarian cities in the southern region of Gaza. These areas of relocation, presented by Israeli officials as safe zones, are concentration camps where Palestinians will be overcrowded, surveilled and controlled without freedom of movement. Thousands of displaced Palestinians are already languishing in makeshift tents, overcrowded public institutions and rudimentary facilities lacking essential resources like clean water, adequate food and medical care. The new phase of forced relocation will intensify the humanitarian crisis and is another tactic to uproot Palestinians from their historic homes and territories prior to their final expulsion out of Gaza. That Israel is actively planning to expel Palestinians from Gaza has been revealed by the disclosure of resettlement arrangements being discussed with countries such as South Sudan. According to multiple news reports citing Israeli and international sources, Israeli officials, including Netanyahu, are in discussions with the government of South Sudan regarding the establishment of camps or humanitarian cities intended to receive Palestinians once current military operations in Gaza begin. These talks, confirmed by individuals familiar with the negotiations, are part of the broader Israeli strategy of mass expulsions to countries such as South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia and the unrecognized state of Somaliland. Although he did not mention any countries in his comments on Tuesday, Netanyahu explicitly stated his belief that the appropriate course of action is to facilitate the populations departure. Also on Tuesday, the foreign ministry of South Sudan issued a statement categorically denying any formal talks, calling related reports baseless and not reflective of public policy. However, multiple sources, including civil society leaders and diplomatic contacts, told international media that discussions had in fact taken place and that an Israeli delegation was expected to visit South Sudan soon to explore options. The military objective, as articulated recently by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, is to totally destroy Gaza and make way for Israeli settlers. The current plans recall the measures used by Zionist terrorists during the Nakba of 1948, when militia groups launched a violent campaign of ethnic cleansing against the indigenous Palestinian population. During this episode, roughly 750,000 Palestiniansmore than 80 percent of the population within the area that would become Israelwere expelled or fled for their lives. The Nakba saw over 530 Palestinian villages destroyed and more than 15,000 Palestinians killed in a series of brutal massacres, forced displacements and tactics that included targeted violence and widespread looting carried out by armed Zionist gangs. Many Palestinians fled under threat of death or horror stories, such as the massacre at Deir Yassin on April 9, 1948. The refugees scattered to neighboring countries like Lebanon, Syria and Jordan, where many would live in refugee camps for generations, as well as to other parts of Palestine that came under occupation. This expulsion in 1948 was actively enabled by the imperialist powers in the aftermath of World War II. The US, along with the backing of Britain and other Western powers, saw in Zionism a bulwark for their geopolitical interests in the Middle East after the carve up of the region after the world war. The establishment of the state of Israel in 1948 through the Nakba served the imperialist agenda by cementing a relationship with a settler-colonial regime that could control critical Middle Eastern resources and strategic corridors. A blatant violation of international law, the creation of the Israeli state on territories inhabited by Palestinians was intended to reinforce US and Western hegemony by fragmenting Arab nationalism and establishing a reliable regional ally. This foundation of violence and dispossession in Palestine set the stage for the decades of brutality, occupation and imperialist intervention that followed. Following the Nakba, the areas today known as the occupied territoriesthe Gaza Strip and the West Bankcame under Israeli military and settler control after the 1967 Six-Day War, a pivotal event which was backed by the US. The Gaza Strip and West Bank, home to millions of Palestinians, have been the sites of repeated and ongoing military occupation and relentless settlement expansion. It was against this legacy of brutality and violence that the uprising of Palestinians on October 7, 2023 took place. This event, which was known about in advance by Israeli and US intelligence, was then used by the Zionist state and its American masters to justify the launching of the genocide which is now culminating in the plan to fully occupy and annex Gaza. Since 1948, approximately 134,000 Palestinians have been killed across Israel and the occupied territories, as documented by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics and other sources. This includes the deaths of thousands during uprisings, such as the First and Second Intifadas, as well as in wars launched by Israel in Gaza and Lebanon. Since October 7, 2023, at least 61,700 Palestinian have been killed in a mass slaughter, thousands of them women and children, with over 154,000 wounded. These figures continue to rise daily as the siege, starvation, bombardments and military incursions persist. The death tolls from starvation have reached at least 235, including many children, while over 1,800 Palestinians have died while attempting to access aid since May 2025. Directly connected with the latest Gaza occupation plans, Finance Minister Smotrich announced plans to approve the construction of more than 3,000 new Israeli housing units in the West Bank. Smotrich bluntly declared that this move buries the idea of a Palestinian state. Smotrichs announcement demonstrates that the continued expansion of illegal Israeli settlements, in both the West Bank and Gazaa crime under international law and a violation of Palestinian rightsare critical to the future of the Zionist state. This will immediately escalate conflicts across the West Bank and consolidate the apartheid rule enforced by the Israeli government and its fascist squads of settlers. In sum, Netanyahus statement about allowing Palestinians to leave Gaza must be understood against this broader historical and political background. The purported voluntary migration is part of a genocidal program of forced displacement aimed at redrawing Gazas demographic and geographic reality under Israeli and US imperialist designs. It is a continuation of the Nakba in the 21st century. The militarization of Gaza, the incarceration-like conditions of the so-called humanitarian zones, the escalating death toll and aggressive settlement expansion are part of one policy that is aimed at erasing Palestinians from the world. Two days before the planned meeting between US President Trump and Russian President Putin in Alaska, Europe and the US are trying to smooth out their differences. After a video conference attended by Trump, Vice President Vance, several European heads of government, and the leaders of the EU and NATO, German Chancellor Merz spoke of a constructive and good conversation. Ukrainian President Zelensky, who traveled specially to Berlin to participate, said Trump had assured him that he would inform him immediately after his meeting with Putin about its outcome. When US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff visited Moscow a week ago and President Trump subsequently announced a face-to-face meeting with Putin and proposed a territorial exchange between Russia and Ukraine, alarm bells rang in European capitals. Media commentators accused Trump of betraying Ukraine and drew parallels with the 1938 Munich Conference, at which Britain and France ceded part of Czechoslovakia to Hitler without inviting the Czech government to the meeting. An editorial in Der Spiegel stated that Europeans had so far mainly flattered Trump. This embarrassing approach must now be supplemented by steadfastness, and if necessary, confrontation. In order to enable Zelensky to reject a bad deal, the editorial said, weapons and ammunition in even greater quantities, better drone technology, and replacements for American targeting systems are needed. European governments pulled out all the stops to prevent a meeting between Trump and Putin without European and Ukrainian participation. On August 9, the heads of government of France, Italy, Germany, Poland, Britain and Finland, as well as European Union (EU) Commission President von der Leyen, issued a joint statement. They insisted that a diplomatic solution must protect Ukraines and Europes vital security interests and that the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine. The Europeans began by welcoming President Trumps work to stop the killing in Ukraine, end the Russian Federations war of aggression, and achieve just and lasting peace and security for Ukraine. But this is flattery to appease Trump. The statement then sets out a series of conditions that are unacceptable to Russia and amount to a continuation of the war. On August 12, the European Council also endorsed this statement. Of the 27 EU heads of state and government, only one, Hungarys Viktor Orban, did not vote in favor. After yesterdays video conference with Trump, Chancellor Merz repeated and clarified the European conditions and claimed, without being specific, that Trump largely shared them. We Europeans are doing everything in our power to set the course for this meeting in the right direction, Merz said. We want President Donald Trump to be successful in Anchorage on Friday. He then outlined the European conditions. First and foremost is the preservation of fundamental European and Ukrainian security interests. Germany alone has mobilized around 40 billion in military aid since 2022, and the EU has adopted 18 EU sanctions packages, according to Merz. Germany now wants to benefit from this. If Trump works toward a peace that preserves European and Ukrainian interests, he can count on our full support, Merz assured. Ukraine is ready to negotiate on territorial issues, Merz continued, deviating from the EUs previous line. But only after a ceasefire, for which the current front line must be the starting point. He ruled out legal recognition of territorial concessions, however. Furthermore, there must be robust security guarantees for Ukraine and pressure on Russia must be increased. The events of the past week have shown how conflict-ridden the relationship between the US and the European powers is. Although NATO is still the most powerful military alliance in the world, accounting for 55 percent of global military spending, the cracks that are tearing it apart are growing deeper by the month. This will remain the case even if tensions cool down somewhat for the moment and Trump does not strike a deal with Putin on Friday at the expense of the Europeans. The growing tensions stem from the nature of the war in Ukraine itself. NATO is not defending freedom and democracy in Ukraine against a Russian war of aggression. It is waging a war for the material resources of Ukraine and Russia as part of an imperialist struggle to redivide the world. Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union three decades ago removed its last inhibitions, the US has waged one brutal imperialist war after another to defend its world dominationagainst Iraq, against Serbia, against Afghanistan, against Iraq for a second time, against Libya and Syria, to name only the most important ones. The European NATO partners have supported these wars in order to share in the spoils. The Russian invasion of Ukraine was a reactionary response to NATOs relentless expansion, which culminated in the Western-backed coup in Kiev in 2014. The Russian government did not accept NATO advancing to the 2,300-kilometer-long common border with Ukraine within firing range of Moscow. Nevertheless, the invasion was reactionary, and the WSWS has sharply condemned it because it divides the working class and thereby strengthens imperialism. Putin, a bitter enemy of socialism and the heritage of the October Revolution, is incapable of making any genuinely democratic and progressive appeal to the Ukrainian working class. Instead, he invokes the reactionary legacy of Tsarist and Stalinist Great Russian chauvinism, said WSWS International Editorial Board chairman David North in a speech on May 1, 2022. Germany is the largest supporter of the war in Ukraine after the US. German imperialism has never come to terms with the fact that it had to take a back seat after losing two world wars. Now it is once again advancing militarily into regionsthe Baltic states, Ukraine, Russiathat it tried in vain to conquer in two world wars, and is using the war in Ukraine as a pretext to rearm on a scale not seen since Hitler. When Trump negotiates with Putin over the heads of Europeans and imposes punitive tariffs on friends and foes alikeincluding European partnersthis is not the personal whim of a real estate dealer, but the result of the imperialist struggle to redivide the world, in which yesterdays partners become todays rivals and adversaries. Capitalism is heading toward the abyss of a third world war unless the working class puts a stop to it in time. Dockworkers: Tell us what conditions are like at your facility. All submissions will be kept anonymous. Tractor-trailers line up to enter Port of Miami Thursday, August 7, 2025. [AP Photo/Marta Lavandier] In the space of barely six weeks this summer, the maritime and port industries saw a grim series of fatal incidents worldwide. These tragedies are the predictable outcome of a system that subordinates human life to corporate profit, aided by government deregulation and the complicity of trade union bureaucracies. On June 2, a crew member was killed aboard the Tidewater Polaris, a platform supply vessel servicing Equinors Empire Wind 1 offshore project near New York. Neither Tidewater nor Equinor released the victims name, age, nationality, or the circumstances of the death. Just four days later, on June 6, a dockworker drowned in Macao after falling into the harbor. The incident was reported with minimal detail, made murkier still when a ship captain drowned in the same area about a week later. On July 11, a construction worker was struck and killed by a falling beam near the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge site. Another worker was injured. While not a dockside fatality, the case illustrates the growing overlap between traditional port operations and high-risk maritime-adjacent infrastructure projects. As ports expand and modernize, workers are increasingly exposed to hazards beyond cargo handling, requiring broader safety strategies that current frameworks fail to deliver. These incidents are only the tip of the iceberg. The global port and shipping network, which moves over 80 percent of the worlds traded goods, operates through a vast system of ships, terminals, warehouses and logistics hubs. Its apparent resilience to geopolitical shocks conceals an unrelenting human toll, borne daily by seafarers, dockworkers, truck drivers, and construction crews. There is no global, real-time database for maritime and port workplace deaths. Reporting requirements vary wildly between jurisdictions, and multinational shipping corporations exploit these gaps to avoid scrutiny. In many cases, deaths are simply categorized as medical events or incidents under investigation and disappear from the public record. The concealment is integral to a business model built on speed, minimal staffing, and maximum throughput. The human element and its exploitation Fatalities in the sector are often blamed on what companies call the human elementfatigue, inadequate training, and procedural non-compliance. These terms obscure the underlying reality: workers are pushed beyond safe limits by economic pressures that prioritize profit over life. Long shifts, insufficient rest hours, and relentless turnaround schedules normalize corner-cutting. Training is truncated or skipped entirely to save time and labor costs. A 2008 statement by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) admitted the essential point: the struggle for safety rules is fundamentally a struggle against these pressures. But in practice, even strong-sounding regulations are undermined by the economic dictatorship of the shipping and logistics giants with the collusion of the union bureaucracies. Mechanical and operational failures remain a major cause of death. A recent DNV report identified machine damage or breakdown as the leading trigger for serious maritime incidents, often stemming from inadequate maintenance. The push toward decarbonization introduces new hazardsalternative fuels such as ammonia and methanol bring toxic and explosive risks for which many crews have no training. The industrys rush to green technology without parallel investment in safety measures is laying the groundwork for next-generation disasters. The maritime environment itself compounds these dangers. Falls into water or from height are among the most persistent killers. International Labour Organization (ILO) figures from 2023 documented 91 person overboard incidents globallyalmost certainly an undercountdemonstrating that such deaths remain endemic despite decades of awareness. The greatest risks fall on frontline crew and dockside laborers, who perform the most dangerous physical work and often have the least leverage to demand protections. The deadly cargo The June 2025 update of the International Cargo Handling Coordination Associations (ICHCA) Severe Risks Dashboard confirms the systemic character of the problem. Since 2000, more than 500 dockworkers have been killed in the course of cargo handling worldwide. Four causes account for the overwhelming majority: crushing by cargo (27 percent), vehicle-pedestrian collisions (23 percent), falls (18 percent), and confined space incidents (14 percent). Crushing deaths usually involve cargo falling, shifting, or overturning. The principle that no worker should stand beneath a suspended load is universally recognizedyet routinely ignored under the pressure to move goods faster. Vehicle collisions involve massive, often blind-spotted equipment such as straddle carriers, forklifts, and yard trucks moving perilously close to unprotected workers. Fallsfrom gangways, cranes, or stacked containersare frequent and deadly, made worse by inadequate rescue provisions. Confined space incidents occur when workers enter oxygen-depleted or toxic areas without proper equipment, often to just quickly perform a task. More than three-quarters of all fatalities occur during active cargo operations, where the profit imperative is at its most intense. Deaths are nearly evenly divided between shipboard and shore-based sites. Bulk carriers, general cargo ships, and roll-on/roll-off vessels are deadliest at sea; on land, quaysides, terminals, and warehouses claim the most lives. Containerized cargocentral to global tradeis the single most lethal cargo type for dockworkers. Unions as enforcers of the corporate agenda The hundreds of dockworker deaths are the result of a profit-driven regime in which the union bureaucracy is an integral part. On the U.S. coasts, the International Longshoremens Association (ILA) in the East and Gulf and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) in the West together cover more than 100,000 dockworkers. ILA President Harold Daggett, who takes home over $1 million a year and who runs the union as his personal fiefdom with his son Dennis Daggett, personifies the degeneration of the unions into agencies of class collaboration. America First Trump supporters and militarists who backed the US airstrikes on Iran, the Daggetts and the ILA bureaucracy imposed a sellout contract after shutting down a three-day strike last year. The new agreement, brokered by Trump, does not address workers number one issue, which is job losses to automation. After the contract was passed, the Daggetts issued a statement instructing members to work harder to keep their positions from being automated out of existence. In the US dock contracts, safety standards can be bypassed under practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship exceptions, allowing corners to be cut under claims of equivalent protection. Fatal accidents have occurred when illumination, barricading, or maintenance procedures were ignored for expediency. While contracts call for joint safety committees, these corporatist bodies do nothing except rubber stamp management decisions, leaving hazards unresolved. Surveillance cameras, framed as safety tools, can pressure workers into unsafe speedup. Broad exceptions for new equipment or methods, without strict independent oversight, create systemic vulnerabilities that endanger both dockworkers and surrounding personnel. Deregulation and bipartisan complicity The destruction of workplace safety in the maritime sector parallels a wider assault on worker protections across industries in the United States and internationally. On July 1, U.S. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer (whose appointment was hailed by virtually the entire US union bureaucracy) announced the rollback of 63 worker protection measures, including an 8 percent cut to OSHAs budget, the elimination of 223 staff, and a projected 10,000 fewer workplace inspections annually. This bipartisan program of deregulation and pro-business policy leaves workers exposed to the most brutal consequences. The deaths of Stellantis autoworker Ronald Adams Sr., 19-year-old immigrant meatpacking worker Brayan Neftali Otoniel Canu Joj, seven killed in a fireworks warehouse explosion in Esparto, South Korean contractor Kim Jung Won at an LG Energy facility, and three killed in a Nebraska biofuel plant blast are all part of the same pattern: unsafe conditions, driven by the reckless pursuit of profit. The Democrats no less than the Republicans bear responsibility. Under both parties, regulatory agencies have been gutted, oversight has been weakened, and unions have been integrated ever more tightly into corporate management. The necessity of rank-and-file organization The maritime industrys deadliness is not a technical inevitability but the product of a social system. The dangers are well-known, the preventive measures exist, and the resources are available. What stands in the way is the subordination of every decision to the profit motive. Safety is a basic human right, which under capitalism is treated as expendable. The answer cannot be found in appeals to corporate conscience, government regulation, or the existing trade union leaderships. It lies in the independent mobilization of maritime and port workers, in coordination with the wider working class, to demand and enforce the highest safety standards. Workers internationally are beginning to form rank-and-file committees, independent of the unions and hostile to the corporate-state apparatus, as part of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). The fight for safety is inseparable from the fight against the capitalist system itself. These committees must take control over the immediate reporting and public disclosure of every workplace identified safety issue, death and serious injury; the establishment of a global, worker-controlled fatality register; comprehensive training for all new and existing hazards including green fuel handling; and the right to halt unsafe work without retaliation. The following report was delivered by David North, the National Chairman of the Socialist Equality Party (US) and International Editorial Board Chairman of the World Socialist Web Site, to introduce the SEP Summer School, held between August 2-9, 2025. The WSWS will be publishing all the lectures at the school in the coming weeks. 1. I am very pleased to welcome members of the Socialist Equality Party in the United States and comrades from sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International from all over the world to the SEPs biannual summer school. During the next seven days, we will be devoting this school to an intensive review of Security and the Fourth International. The place of Security and the Fourth International in the history of the Trotskyist movement 2. The International Committee of the Fourth International initiated its investigation into the assassination of Leon Trotsky a half century ago. The resolution that began the investigation which came to be known as Security and the Fourth International was adopted at the Sixth Congress of the International Committee in May 1975. 3. The political issues that precipitated the investigation arose out of the decision of the Workers League national committee on August 31, 1974 to remove Tim Wohlforth from the position of national secretary after it was discovered that his personal companion, Nancy Fields, had the closest family connection with a high-level official of the Central Intelligence Agency. Wohlforth had deliberately concealed this fact from the party leadership. 4. Moreover, Wohlforth had selected Fields to accompany him to the Fifth Congress of the ICFI in April 1974. She circulated among its delegates, among whom were comrades who conducted their work under conditions of illegality in countriessuch as Peru, Spain, Portugal and Greecewhich were ruled by police-state dictatorships. Wohlforth, subordinating his political responsibilities to his private affairs, compromised the safety of delegates and the overall security of the congress. 5. In addition to removing Wohlforth from his position as national secretary and suspending Nancy Fields from membership, the Workers League and the International Committee initiated a commission of inquiry into the personal background of Nancy Fields (a.k.a. Nancy Kornreich, a.k.a. Nancy Freuden) to determine, based on obtainable evidence, whether she, apart from her family connections, had a relationship with the CIA. But just as the inquiry was getting under way, Wohlforth and Fields deserted the Workers League. Wohlforth, in his letter of resignation, denounced the pending commission of inquiry as an inquisition. Tim Wohlforth and Nancy Fields 6. Within a few months of his resignation, Wohlforthrepudiating his previous 14 years of struggle against the Socialist Workers Partys betrayal of Trotskyismrejoined the SWP. He wrote a lengthy document that was serialized in the February-March 1975 issue of Intercontinental Press, whose editor was Joseph Hansen, the principal architect of the Socialist Workers Partys 1963 reunification with the Pabloite International Secretariat and repudiation of the foundational principles of the Fourth International. 7. Wohlforth, dismissing the implications of his disregard for the political security of his own party, denounced Healys intervention in the political crisis in the Workers League as a form of madness as it rearranges the world according to the individual. He becomes convinced that he is surrounded by CIA agents and proceeds on that basis. 8. Following Wohlforths diatribe, Hansen published in the March 31, 1975 edition of Intercontinental Press a denunciation of the leader of the Workers Revolutionary Party titled The Secret of Healys Dialectics. He wrote: Wohlforth describes Healys performance as madness. Would it not be preferable, and perhaps more precise, to use a modern term like paranoia? If the term fits, then the true explanation for Healys obsessions about CIA agents, and plots against his life, as well as his rages, extreme reactions, and strange version of dialectics is to be sought not in his politics, philosophical methodology, or models like Pablo or Cannon, but in the workings of a mind best understood by psychiatrists. 9. To place Hansens denunciation of Healys concern with security in its appropriate context, it must be recalled that in 1973 information had emerged of massive FBI infiltration of the Socialist Workers Party. The exposure of the infamous COINTELPRO documents revealed that the FBI had hired up to 1,300 informants to spy on the organization. According to official disclosures, at least 301 informers were infiltrated into the party. The documents indicated that the infiltration of agents into the SWP dated back to 1941. 10. For Hansen to deride Healys concern with security as paranoia, in the very midst of the public revelation of the FBIs massive infiltration of the SWP, was, to say the least, politically reprehensible and irresponsible. It even undermined the lawsuit that had been filed in 1973 by the Socialist Workers Party and its youth organization, the Young Socialist Alliance, against the federal governments infiltration program. After all, why make such a big deal about FBI infiltration if concern for party security is a manifestation of paranoia. 11. There was another sinister element in Hansens denunciation of Healy. In the 1960s and early 1970s, the Stalinist regime in the Soviet Union justified its repression of political dissidents by claiming that they suffered from mental illness. The KGB, the successor of the GPU and NKVD, frequently sent political opponents to psychiatrists. Nikita Khrushchev, in a public speech, explicitly connected crime and opposition to the Soviet regime with mental illness. 12. This slander laid the groundwork for using psychiatric internment as a tool of political repression. Among those subjected to this form of repression were the scientist Zhores Medvedev, the writer Yuli Daniel, and the poets Iosif Brodsky and Natalya Gorbanevskaya. Dissidents who criticized the regime were commonly diagnosed as suffering from paranoid delusions of reformism and even a paranoid development of the personality. Clockwise from bottom left: Yuli Daniel, Iosif Brodsky [Dutch National Archives], Zhores Medvedev [RIA Novosti], Natalya Gorbanevskaya [Ondrej Lipar] 13. In his denunciation of Healy as suffering from paranoia, Hansen was resorting to Stalinist-style slanders. The roots of his training in such methods would eventually become clear. 14. Of greater significance than the proximate causes of the decision to initiate Security and the Fourth International was the broader historical context. In its reply to Hansens Secret of Healys Dialectics, published in April 1975, the Political Committee of the Workers Revolutionary Party declared: Our insistence on security training is entirely consistent with the traditions and principles of the revolutionary movement as fought for by Marx, Engels, Lenin and Trotsky. Security is not an abstract or secondary question. A party that is not founded on revolutionary discipline in its own ranks cannot command the support of the working class in confronting the capitalist state machine, overthrowing it, and establishing the dictatorship of the proletariat. This is not to present security in a one-sided way. It is to be seen as a central political question in the training of a revolutionary cadre in the working class. A serious revolutionary party does not indulge in panic in dealing with security questions in its ranks, because it cannot organize its ranks properly to repel police penetration under panic. This means vigilance at all times on questions of security in the knowledge that a trained revolutionary party, deeply embedded in the working class, is the single biggest guarantor against the counterrevolutionary conspiracies of the CIA, FBI, MI5, MI6, etc. Hansens article enables us to reopen vital pages in the history of Trotskyism. We are obliged to present this history, warts and all, since our movement has, in the past, paid a terrible price when it has ignored and derided security training in its ranks. These are the pages that Hansen wants to suppress. Trotsky was murdered by Stalins GPU because the objective conditions placed the Fourth International in considerable isolation from the masses and, consequently, his personal safety was endangered continuously. While he was surrounded by the most devoted political following in history, some were nevertheless lax in security matters, which enabled the GPU assassin to strike. The International Committee of the Fourth International is not going to be intimidated by the shouts and screams of the revisionists. They can call us sectarians and paranoids until they are blue in the face. In using these labels, they are in fact attacking the ICs fight for principles and its attention to discipline and security vigilance in our ranks. We are not building a bucket-shop for middle-class free-booters and adventurers, which is the hallmark of Hansens international groupings. That road is an open invitation to the CIA and penetration by the police, because it is precisely among such elements that the police elements operate so breezily. Hansen wants to hide the security question; we want to elevate it in the training and building of our movement. That is why we feel it necessary to reopen the pages of history of Trotskyism to explain the background of why action was taken against Wohlforth and why similar steps will be taken again in the future if the necessity arises. 15. When the International Committee held its Sixth Congress in May 1975 and voted unanimously to accept the resolution, put forward by Gerry Healy, to begin the Security and the Fourth International investigation, almost exactly 35 years had passed since the assassination. The assassination of Leon Trotsky was as recent, calculating in relative terms, as 1990 is to us. Many people who had been active in the Fourth International and the SWP at the time of Trotskys death were still alive. Many of these individuals were not exceptionally old. Jean Van Heijenoort, who had been Trotskys secretary from 1932 to 1939, was 63 years old when I interviewed him in September 1975. Harold Robins, who had served in Coyoacan in 1939-40 as the captain of Trotskys guard, was 67 years old when he was contacted by the Workers League in the summer of 1975. Felix Morrow, a leading member of the SWPs Political Committee in 1939-40, was 71 years old when I met with him in 1976. 16. Many of the principal figures in the conspiracy against Trotsky also were still in their sixties. Ramon Mercader, the assassin of Trotsky, was 61 years old and living in the USSR when the investigation began. Mark Zborowski, the most important of the GPU agents operating inside the Fourth International, was 67 years old when he and his wife were photographed outside their San Francisco apartment building in August 1975. Joseph Hansen was 65 years old. Sylvia Callen, the GPU agent who became the personal secretary of SWP leader James P Cannon, was 63 years old. Sylvia Ageloff, who had introduced Jacson to Trotsky, was 65. 17. I reference these individuals and their ages in 1975 to emphasize that when the investigation began, the assassination was not ancient history. In historical terms, Trotskys assassination was, if not a recent event, well within the political memory of many living individuals. And yet, at that time, members of the SWP and defenders of Joseph Hansen expressed amazement that the ICFI was so preoccupied with, or even interested in, the assassination of Leon Trotsky, which had happened so long ago. Why were we still talking about the assassination? 18. Again, to provide a sense of the time span, the split of 1985-86 and the death of Gerry Healy in 1989 are more distant events today than the assassination of Trotsky in 1940 was to the initiation of Security and the Fourth International in 1975. And if I may recall the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963, almost 62 years ago, the circumstances of his death are still the subject of intense controversy. It is only in the last few months that a new trove of documents relating to the FBIs investigation of the Kennedy assassination was made public. These documents, far from settling all questions about the killing of the president, have provided fuel for new questions about the conspiracy that ended the life of John F. Kennedy. 19. Prior to the initiation of Security and the Fourth International, no systematic investigation into the assassination of Leon Trotsky by the movement he founded had taken place. This was all the more inexplicable given the fact that Trotsky was a figure of world historical significance, the co-leader of the 1917 October socialist revolution that massively influenced the entire course of the twentieth century. Moreover, the impact of his assassination on the Fourth Internationaland, therefore, the development of the international class struggle and the fate of humanitywas incalculable. One could say of Trotskys death what Engels wrote of Marxs passing: His death left humanity shorter by a head, and its greatest head at that. Leon Trotsky 20. Within the Fourth International, the historical narrative of Trotskys assassination had hardly changed since August 21, 1940. And it was this: Trotsky had been murdered by a single GPU agent, Ramon Mercader, alias Frank Jacson, who had wormed his way into Trotskys villa in Coyoacan by exploiting the naivete of the well-meaning Sylvia Ageloff. There was absolutely no talk of a broader conspiracy involving GPU agents working inside the Fourth International and the SWP. The evidence that Robert Sheldon Hartethe guard who opened the gates of the Coyoacan villa on May 24, 1940, the date of the first attempt on Trotskys life, to the assassination squad of David Siqueiroshad been a GPU agent was brushed aside. 21. To the extent that there had been an investigation into Trotskys assassination, it had been conducted not by the Fourth International, but, rather, by the United States government during its investigation and prosecution of Soviet espionage agents in the aftermath of World War II. These state investigations exposed the network of GPU agents who organized the assassination of Trotsky and the murder of leading Trotskyists in Europe in 1937-38, including Erwin Wolf, Ignace Reiss, Lev Sedov and Rudolf Klement. 22. The exposure of the Sobolevicius brothersJack Soble and Robert SoblenMark Zborowski, Floyd Cleveland Miller, Thomas Black and Sylvia Callen was the work of the US government. The indictments, arrests, trials and testimonies of members of the GPU network of anti-Trotskyist agents were the subject of banner headlines across the United States. But the exposure of these agents and the critical information that it had uncovered about the penetration of the Fourth International was ignored by the Socialist Workers Party, even though many of the defendants were placed on trial in New York City, only a few miles from the SWP party headquarters. Stalinist agents exposed by the Security and the Fourth International investigation for their involvement in the assassination of Trotsky. Clockwise from top left: Mark Zborowski; Sylvia Callen; the Soblevicius brothers, Jack and Robert; Thomas L. Black; Sylvia Ageloff; Robert Sheldon Harte. 23. I will not preempt the lectures that comrades will deliver this week. However, it is a fact that Security and the Fourth International transformed the historical narrative of Trotskys assassination. All serious accounts of the Stalinist conspiracy against the Fourth International and the assassination of Leon Trotsky will take as their starting point the investigation and findings of Security and the Fourth International and their irrefutable confirmation during the lawsuit against the SWP and US government initiated by Alan Gelfand in 1979 and supported by the Workers League and the International Committee. 24. At this point, only the dregs of Stalinism, the Pabloite and related middle-class radical organizations, and the intellectually corrupt academic milieu of pseudo-leftism continue to ignore, deprecate and deny the overwhelming evidence that the penetration of the SWP by GPU agents played a critical role in the assassination of Trotsky. The role of Sylvia Callen (a.k.a. Sylvia Franklin, Sylvia Caldwell, Sylvia Doxsee), the personal secretary of James P. Cannon, as a GPU spy has been conclusively established. The same is true for Robert Sheldon Harte. 25. Above all, the role of Joseph Hansen as a GPU plant and, in the aftermath of Trotskys assassination, an FBI informer has been conclusively established. This is disputed only by those who believe that it is permissible for a member of a revolutionary socialist organization to hold secret meetings with the GPU and the political police of a capitalist state; and that Hansens September 1940 request that he be provided with the name of an FBI agent in New York to whom confidential information could be imparted with impunity doesnt mean exactly what the words clearly imply; and that Hansens evasions and flagrant lies about his relations with both the GPU and FBI were not proof of guilt. Joseph Hansen circa 1940 26. The significance of Security and the Fourth International extends far beyond its exposure of specific individuals. Security and the Fourth International was never a simple exercise in political detective work. From its earliest stages the International Committee placed Security and the Fourth International in a broader historical and international context. 27. In its Perspective Resolution of 1978 (amended in June 1979), the Workers League, predecessor of the Socialist Equality Party, stated: The struggle to train revolutionary cadre on the basis of the historical continuity of Trotskyism has attained unprecedented power and scope through the investigation mounted by the International Committee beginning in the spring of 1975 at the Sixth World Congress into the circumstances surrounding the assassination of Trotsky in 1940. Security and the Fourth International represents nothing less than the reclamation of the whole historical continuity of Bolshevism through the Fourth International and the International Committee from the evil grip of Stalinist counter-revolution and falsification. All the lies and distortions and crimes committed by Stalinism against Trotskyism, the political embodiment of the struggle for the world October; all the monstrous acts committed to confuse and disorient generations of workers about the real history of the October Revolution and the role of Trotsky these have been dealt a blow from which Stalinism and all the agencies of imperialist counter-revolution will never recover. Through its investigation, relentlessly unmasking the murders, provocations and disruptions carried out by a vast apparatus of Stalinist and imperialist agents working within the Trotskyist movement, the International Committee has floodlit the whole history of the Fourth International. 28. For decades the power of the Stalinist bureaucracy was ruthlessly employed within the Soviet Union and internationally to suppress the exposure of its crimes. However, the death of Stalin in 1953 coincided with and accelerated the crisis of bureaucratic rule. The exposure of Stalins crimes in the secret speech of Nikita Khrushchev, delivered in February 1956, was followed little more than a half year later by the uprising of Hungarian workers against the Stalinist regime in Budapest. A decade later the Stalinist regimes were shaken by mass movements in Czechoslovakia and Poland. 29. These objective developments, interacting with the bankruptcy of the bureaucracys program of national economic autarchy, changed profoundly the relationship between Stalinism and Trotskyism. With the initiation of the Security and the Fourth International investigation, the Trotskyist movement passed on to the offensive against the counter-revolutionary bureaucracies. 30. But it must be recognized that this struggle was undertaken at a time when the Stalinist bureaucracies, although in crisis, still retained substantial power and political prestige. Moreover, since 1953 the Pabloite tendencies had functioned as political allies of the Stalinist parties, doing all they could to promote illusions in the possibility of not only their bureaucratic self-reform but also in their revolutionary potential. 31. The initiation of the Security and the Fourth International investigationwhich focused attention on the murderous counter-revolutionary role of Stalinismcut across the Pabloite orientation to the bureaucracies. Moreover, by raising the issue of the infiltration of the Fourth International by police agentsboth those of the Stalinist and imperialist statesthe International Committee profoundly threatened fundamental state interests. 32. In its initial response to Hansens vicious denunciation of the International Committees defense of its own political security, the Workers Revolutionary Party called attention to the record of high level infiltration of the Pabloite organizations by the capitalist state. The Security and the Fourth International investigation also gathered evidence that implicated Hansen and the Socialist Workers Party in an on-going conspiracy against the Trotskyist movement. 33. The development of Security and the Fourth International was recognized as a serious threat by imperialism and its political agencies. They responded with the September 1976 publication of the notorious Verdict in Intercontinental Press, which denounced the findings of Hansens systematic cover-up of the GPU as a Shameless Frame-Up. The leading representatives of virtually every Pabloite organization in the world affixed their signature to this document. As would later be established during the Gelfand Case, none of the signatories had actually read the documents that they were denouncing. 34. The publication of the Verdict was followed on January 14, 1977 by a London rally called by the leaders of international Pabloite groups to denounce Healy and Security and the Fourth International. Assembled on what the International Committee memorably and appropriately described as the Platform of Shame were, among others, Ernest Mandel, Tim Wohlforth, George Novack (who had been indicted by the ICFI as Hansens co-accomplice of the GPU) and Pierre Lambert. The meeting was chaired by the thoroughly unprincipled middle-class radical, Tariq Ali (who eventually repudiated all association with Trotskyism). Gerry Healy raising his hand to speak at the Pabloites' Platform of Shame meeting held on January 14, 1977 in London. 35. Amidst an audience of approximately 1,500 Pabloites, Gerry Healyaccompanied by no more than five members of the Workers Revolutionary Partylistened patiently as Mandel, Wohlforth, Novack and Lambert hurled abusive insults in his direction. When the speakers had all run out of breath, Healy rose from his seat and indicated his desire to speak by raising his hand. Over substantial protests from those in the audience who maintained some commitment to democratic procedures, or, at the very least, the traditional British sense of fair play, Tariq Ali refused to allow Healy to speak. There had been more than two hours available for denunciations of Healy. But not one minute was made available for Healy to publicly restate the International Committees call for an international commission of inquiry to examine the evidence uncovered by the Security and the Fourth International investigation. The meeting broke up in disarray. 36. It is worth quoting from Wohlforths autobiography, as he described his own reaction to Healys presence: While I am sure I appeared calm on the surface, deep inside I was seized by an almost uncontrollable fear. It was amazing how this man, accompanied by only a dozen supporters and surrounded by one thousand people sympathetic to what I was about to say, could still create such a reaction in me. No matter what else is said about Healy, no one, after that night, should question his courage or flair for the dramatic.1 37. At that stage of the investigation, the International Committee had not yet located Sylvia Caldwell-Callen, who had been first identified as a GPU agent by Louis Budenz in 1947 and later, in 1960, listed as an unindicted co-conspirator in the trial of GPU agent Robert Soblen, one of the two Sobolevicius brothers. It was not until May 1977 that Caldwellmaiden name Callen, and previously married to Zalmond Franklinwas located and interviewed in Wheaton, Illinois. By that time, she had divorced Franklin, remarried, and was known as Sylvia Doxsee. 38. Also, it was not until July 1977 that the International Committee acquired, on the basis of a Freedom of Information request, a new trove of declassified documents that revealed the far greater extent of Hansens contacts with the FBI in the aftermath of Trotskys assassination, which included the letters that referenced Hansens aforementioned request for a confidential contact to whom information could be imparted with impunity. 39. It was on the basis of the documents and factual material obtained in the spring and summer of 1977 that the International Committee concluded that there was sufficient evidence to publicly accuse Hansen of having operated within the SWP as an agent of the GPU and FBI informer. In a statement dated July 29, 1977, the ICFI declared: The International Committee has long since proven that Joseph Hansen, by virtue of his coverup of such Stalinist agents as Sylvia Franklin, Floyd Cleveland Miller and Mark Zborowski, is an accomplice of the GPU. The International Committee has now proved that he established secret contact with the FBI and delivered internal SWP documents to its agents. The International Committee has demonstrated before the world Trotskyist movement and an international audience of workers, intellectuals and youth that Joseph Hansen is not and has never been a Trotskyist. 40. In response to the interview with Sylvia Doxsee, who had combined claims of amnesia about her years in the SWP with expressions of contempt for James P. Cannon, Hansen continued his policy of lies, fabrications and evasions. He also warned that the International Committee is refusing to acknowledge the deadly consequences the WRP now faces, and added maliciously that the Healyites are quite capable of initiating violence against other sectors of the labor movement2 41. But the only violence that occurred was directed against the Workers League. On October 16, 1977, Tom Henehan, a member of the Workers League Political Committee, was assassinated as he supervised a Young Socialist dance. Not a single Pabloite organization in the world denounced this political murder. Tom Henehan speaking at the International Youth Committee of the Fourth International, 1975 42. Hansen died suddenly on January 18, 1979, exactly one week after he had attended the meeting of the SWP Political Committee that expelled Alan Gelfand for filing an Amicus Curiae (Friend of the Court) brief in support of the Socialist Workers Partys lawsuit over the infiltration of agents during the COINTELPRO program. Gelfands brief argued that the presiding court should compel the US Attorney General to identify government informants inside the SWP. Gelfands brief stated: These informants certainly are not in the SWP to help build this Party. Their ultimate purpose is to destroy it. The multitude of dirty tricks, burglaries and thefts which have been carried out by these informants, has been well documented both in this suit as in other recent cases. Such activities overwhelmingly confirm the sinister role played by informants. 43. Gelfands brief was viewed by the SWP leadership as a serious threat. While its own attorneys conducted its lawsuit in a passive manner, without any intention whatsoever of forcing the exposure of agents, Gelfand was absolutely serious about compelling the government to identify and remove its agents from the SWP, which could result in the exposure of members of the SWP leadership. The SWP Political Committee decided that it could no longer delay Gelfands removal. The motion to expel Gelfand was advanced in the Political Committee by the SWPs national secretary, Jack Barnes. 44. Exactly six months later, on July 18, 1979, Alan Gelfand filed a lawsuit in a Federal District Court in Los Angeles, claiming that his expulsion had been engineered by US government agents operating in the leadership of the Socialist Workers Party. The development of the Gelfand Case will be discussed at length in subsequent lectures. 45. But two points must be stressed. First, in its efforts to discredit Gelfand, the SWP leaders persistently claimed that the aim of the lawsuit was to enable the government to decide who could be a member of the SWP. In fact, the clearly stated aim of the lawsuit was to bar the government from infiltrating the SWP leadership, and then using its control of the party apparatus to expel anyone who attempted to expose them. 46. The democratic principles asserted by Gelfands lawsuit were explicitly acknowledged by District Court Judge Mariana Pfaelzer in her denial of the SWPs motion to dismiss the case. She wrote that it is clear that the governmental manipulation and takeover of plaintiffs political party is a drastic interference with the associational rights of its adherents and cannot pass constitutional muster. 47. Second, there would have been no reason for the SWP leaders, had they been what they claimed to be, i.e., genuine socialists, to oppose Gelfands lawsuit. They would have welcomed the opportunity to refute in open court Gelfands claims of a government takeover of the SWP. But Barnes and his associates knew all too well that the lawsuit was based on irrefutable facts, and that its continuation would result in the vindication of not only Gelfands allegations but also the entire Security and the Fourth International investigation. 48. As this case was beginning to unfold, the International Committee discovered that virtually the entire central leadership of the Socialist Workers Party were graduates of Carleton College, a small conservative institution in Northfield, Minnesota. All of these recruits, beginning with SWP national secretary Jack Barnes, wereto use the words employed by the college president Richard Gilman in an interview conducted in 1979plugged into the SWP via the CIA-ridden Fair Play for Cuba Committee. 49. I will not attempt to summarize here the course of the Gelfand Case, which spanned almost four years. This will be the subject of several lectures later this week. However, I must emphasize that the outcome of the case was the total substantiation, in the form of sworn depositions and legally verified documents, of the evidence uncovered and the allegations made by the International Committee. In fact, the critical additional information obtained by Alan Gelfand and his principal attorney, John Burton, conclusively exposed the lies that had been told by Hansen, Novack and the SWP leadership about Hansens contacts with the FBI and with the GPU. The political significance and heroic character of the struggle conducted by Alan will live forever in the history of the Trotskyist movement. Harold Robins, the captain of Trotsky's guard in Coyoacan, with Alan Gelfand in early 1983 50. While preparing the school, even those who were personally involved in the investigation could not avoid being somewhat astonished by the monumental scale of Security and the Fourth International, of which the Gelfand Case is a component part. It was carried out in the face of relentless opposition, threats and even violence. 51. There is no question but that the political impulse for the initiation of the investigation came in the first instance from Gerry Healy. Having broken with the Stalinist movement in the 1930s, during the Moscow Trials and the GPUs terror campaign against the Trotskyist movement, Healy was in a position to grasp the sinister implications of Hansens contemptuous attitude toward the security of the Fourth International. 52. When Hansen hurled against him the charge of paranoia, Healy did not view this as simply a personal insult. Rather, Hansens cynical dismissal of the danger posed by the infiltration of agents into the Fourth International immediately led Healy to recall the examples of Mark Zborowski and Ramon Mercader. And he asked himself how Hansen, who had actually witnessed Trotskys assassination in Coyoacan, could dismiss the need for vigilance in the revolutionary movement. 53. Gerry Healy was certainly a hard man. But he was of a generation that had been politically educated in the midst of the brutal events and tragedies of the 1930s. The work that led to his break with Stalinism was Max Shachtmans pamphlet Behind the Moscow Trial. Healy had never forgotten the warning issued by Trotsky in An Open Letter to Workers Organizations issued on November 2, 1937: Never has the labor movement had in its own ranks so vicious, dangerous, powerful, and unscrupulous an enemy as Stalins clique and its international agents. Remissness in the struggle against this enemy is tantamount to betrayal. Only windbags and dilettantes but not serious revolutionists can confine themselves to pathetic outbursts of indignation. It is urgent to create special commissions which would follow the maneuvers, intrigues, and crimes of the Stalinists, warn the labor organizations of danger in store, and elaborate the best methods of parrying and resisting the Moscow gangsters. 54. Healys evocation of the historical experience of the Trotskyist movement had found expression in the WRPs reply to Hansens Secret of Healys Dialectics, the resolution to initiate Security and the Fourth International, and the drafting of How the GPU Murdered Trotsky. Gerry Healy, 1964 55. Healys intervention evoked a powerful response within the young cadre of the Workers League. How is this to be explained? First, the cadre of the Workers League had been won to the perspective and program of Trotskyism through the struggle that had been waged by the International Committee against Pabloism. The Open Letter written by Cannon in 1953 and the critical documents written by the Socialist Labour League in 1961-63 in opposition to the betrayal of Trotskyism by the SWP shaped the political outlook of the party cadre. 56. The emphasis placed by the International Committee on the continuity of the Trotskyist movement inculcated within the cadre of the Workers League a serious attitude toward questions of history. The sense of a deep political connection between our present tasks and the antecedent experience of the Fourth International and, beyond that, the October Revolution, the first four congresses of the Communist International, and the issues that gave rise to the founding of the Left Opposition and its subsequent struggles were present in the political consciousness of the Workers League cadre. 57. This, I believe, accounts for the determination and even ferocity with which the Workers League pursued the Security and the Fourth International investigation, even as the Workers Revolutionary Party increasingly withdrew from this struggle. 58. The concern with historical experience, political principles and the programmatic foundations of the Fourth International that formed the basis of the education of the cadre of the International Committee was the polar opposite of the crude pragmatism, opportunism and atmosphere of cynicism that prevailed within the Socialist Workers Party and the Pabloite United Secretariat (especially those sections most closely under Hansens direct influence, such as the International Marxist Group in Britain and the Socialist Workers League in Australia). 59. The leaders of these organizations could not be swayed by the evidence uncovered by the International Committee, no matter how damning. As the ICFI statement of July 29, 1977, noted, They are consumed with such political hatred of the International Committee that they will ride with Hansen to hell and back. Nothing else was to be expected of inveterate opportunists and self-promoting publicity seekers, like Tariq Ali, not to mention the many police agents comfortably operating under cover within the Pabloite groups. 60. But it was not only political corruption that maintained Hansens place in the leadership of the SWP. The middle class elements that comprised the bulk of its membership supported Hansen not out of conviction, but because they were uninterested in and indifferent to the historical experiences and political issues raised by Security and the Fourth International. 61. Preoccupied with the short-term concerns of protest politics, and, therefore, focused on applying pressure aimed at reforming the capitalist state rather than overthrowing it, the Pabloite membership saw no reason to be particularly concerned about state infiltration of its organization. The common responses given by the SWP rank and file as they brushed off members of the Workers League who circulated the statements exposing Hansens ties to the GPU and FBI were So what? and Who cares? Another phrase that assumed the stature of a political motto among SWP members was Agents do good work. 62. The latter piece of political wisdom was derived from the distortion promoted by Hansen of the lessons drawn by the Bolsheviks from the exposure of Roman Malinovsky, a leading member of the party, as an agent of the Okhrana, the secret tsarist police. 63. The impact of this agent on the work of the party was devastating. The information he supplied to the Okhrana led to countless arrests and deaths. In its review of the case of Malinovsky the Bolsheviks later noted that this agent, who was a leading party spokesman in the Russian parliament prior to the revolution, was compelled to deliver speeches that publicized the positions of the Bolsheviks. In order to fulfill his insidious tasks as an informer, Malinovsky unintentionally carried out certain political functions that advanced party interests. 64. But this statement was not intended as an endorsement of the role of agents inside the revolutionary movement on the spurious ground that they may do good work. After all, once in power, the Bolshevik regime established the Cheka to combat the activities of counter-revolutionary spies. Spies were not rewarded for their unintended contributions to the revolutionary cause. As Harold Robins dryly commented on the fate of Malinovsky: When the Bolsheviks got him, they shot him. 65. Hansens distortion of the Malinovsky affair was designed to sow political complacency among the SWP members, to promote the idea that agents do both good and bad work, and that the former, the good work, may prove to be more important than the latter. Genuine revolutionaries do not maintain such a balanced, 50-50 percent attitude to agents and their activities. In his memoirs, Victor Serge described the police agent as a provocateur, who is not only an informer; he is a seducer, a strategist of ruin. 66. There was yet another argument advanced by the SWP leadership, which was accepted by its ignorant and complacent rank-and-file membership. In his letter of April 7, 1978, to Alan Gelfand, SWP leader Larry Seigle wrote: The Party cannot and will not allow agent-baiting in its ranks. The use of this loaded termagent baiting, as if it were akin to red-baiting or jew-baitingwas intended to prohibit questioning of the political bona fides of any party member, regardless of evidence of associations with the police and intelligence agencies. The practical application of this rule guaranteed police agents absolute protection against exposure. 67. Over the course of a half century, the attitude to Security and the Fourth International taken by tendencies and their leaders and members has proven to be a highly accurate, even infallible, indication of their political orientation. Invariably, the denunciation of Security and the Fourth International has been closely linked to the repudiation of Trotskyism. 68. For an entire decade Cliff Slaughter and Michael Banda, leaders of the WRP, had been ardent supporters of Security and the Fourth International. They wrote numerous articles condemning those who attacked and slandered the investigation. But amid the crisis that erupted in the WRP in the summer and autumn of 1985, and as it prepared its split with the International Committee, Slaughter and Bandaforgetting all that they had previously writtenissued embittered denunciations of Security and the Fourth International. Banda, adopting the words of Hansen, described the investigation as a manic witchhunt, a desperate forensic diversion to be precise, to satisfy Healys paranoid schizophrenia as well as his anti-theory empiricism. Within weeks of composing this hysterical tirade, Banda proceeded to denounce Trotsky and declare his unstinting admiration for Joseph Stalin. Cliff Slaughter 69. Slaughter endorsed Bandas denunciation of Security and the Fourth International, and supplemented it with the claim that its work had been a substitute for the theoretical struggle against Stalinism and Pabloism. The absurdity of this claim, which included an element of irony, is that it was made as both Banda and Slaughter were consciously repudiating Trotskyism. As Banda degenerated into a defender of Stalinism and an apologist for Zionism, Slaughter began his long trek to the political right that led to his repudiation of the Leninist concept of a party and the embrace of a form of petty-bourgeois anarchist humanism. 70. In answering the claim that Security and the Fourth International marked a turn away from the struggle against Pabloism and the development of Marxism, the history of the International Committee between 1975 and 1985 proves exactly the opposite. The intense involvement of the Workers League in Security and the Fourth International was inextricably linked to its defense, in opposition to the WRP, of the program of Trotskyism and the philosophical foundations of Marxism. 71. In fact, the major Workers League documents opposing the WRPs drift toward opportunism and Healys distortion of the dialectical method were written during the most intense phase of the Gelfand case, that is, as preparations for the trial were underway. 72. Security and the Fourth International is a major chapter in the history of the Trotskyist movement. Not only have its findings withstood the test of timea full half centuryits work continues. The analysis written by Comrade Eric London of Hansens interactions with the FBI in light of the 1941 prosecution of 18 SWP leaders and the examination of the role played by Sylvia Ageloff in the assassination of Leon Trotsky are important contributions to an understanding of the combined conspiracies of imperialism and Stalinism against the Fourth International. 73. In concluding this introduction to the international school, I must emphasize that party security is, above all, a political question. The recognition of the need for security arises from a Marxist understanding of the nature of the capitalist state, the laws of the class struggle, the character of the imperialist epoch, the objective crisis of world capitalism, and a deeply rooted commitment to the program of the party. The level of theoretical and political consciousness required to understand the complex problem of maintaining organizational security requires a highly educated and politically firm Marxist cadre. 74. The development of a revolutionary cadre requires internal relations grounded in clear political principles, enabling a regime that is democratic, disciplined, and capable of resisting state attacks. It must avoid both opportunist complacency and fear-driven hysteria. Political vigilance is incompatible with panic. The strongest defense against infiltration is a politically educated and well-informed cadre, which is essential for maintaining internal democracy and a carefully organized program of security. This is among the most vital lessons of Security and the Fourth International. 75. We have before us a very challenging week. The lectures will encompass a huge amount of material relating to history, politics and even law. But we are living in challenging and dangerous times, and objective events will impose huge demands upon our cadre. It is all but self-evident that the issue of political security acquires immense significance at a time when targeted assassinations and genocide have been normalized and the basic constitutional foundations of bourgeois democracy are disintegrating. These are the manifestations of an immense escalation of class struggle on a world scale and the transition to civil war and social revolution. The purpose of this international school is to raise the political level of the cadre of the Socialist Equality Party and the ICFI to meet the challenges posed by the accelerating crisis of world capitalism and prepare the American and international working class for the conquest of power and the building of a world socialist society. Thank you comrades for your attention. Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents search a bag after detaining a person at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. [AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana] Encouraged by the absence of any significant opposition from the Democratic Party to his military-police takeover of Washington D.C., President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he would ask Congress to give him long-term control of the police force in the US capital. He added that he expected Democratic-led city governments to change their criminal justice laws. This could include rescinding restrictions on cash bail, treating juveniles as adults in court, and authorizing police to take a more aggressive role in relation to criminal suspects. US police already kill more than 1,000 civilians a year, far more than any other major capitalist country. Trump made his comments at the end of a visit to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts venue, where he announced he was taking full control of the centers fall awards program, including selecting the honorees and acting as the host for the televised ceremony. 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 use it as a very positive example, and were going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days. He was referring to the 30-day limit on presidential control of the D.C. police, set by the 1973 D.C. Home Rule Act. A long-term extension would require legislation, which could be blocked in the Senate by the Democrats. Trump seemed confident of a full capitulation by the Democrats, however, as he said he would propose the bill very quickly. Trump then added ominously that there were other options, claiming, If its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress. He continued, I dont want to call a national emergency, adding, If I have to, I will. He did not make it clear whether he was referring to the Insurrection Act of 1807, which Trump threatened to use in 2020 against the mass protests over the police murder of George Floyd, and which was discussed during the first weeks of his second term in relation to protests against federal immigration raids. The actual deployment of police and military forces in the District of Columbia has steadily escalated since Trumps announcement on Monday morning. Officials claimed that more than 1,450 District and federal police participated in patrols on Tuesday, with only 30 National Guard troops out of the 800 who have been called up. This was nearly double the 850 police sent out on Monday after Trumps announcement of the federal takeover. The White House claimed that 19 teams of officers from federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, have been deployed in the District to promote public safety and arrest violent offenders. The federal agents are armed, while the National Guard troops will not be initially, since their tasks will be 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. The pretext of a crime wave in Washington D.C. is a brazen lie, concocted by the White House to justify putting the US capital effectively under military-police rule. Attorney General Pam Bondi is in overall charge of the police, with a subordinate, Drug Enforcement Agency Director Terry Cole, acting as the day-to-day commander. Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll will direct the operations of the National Guard. According to a White House official who spoke to the press, the National Guard will have a much larger presence on the streets Wednesday night and operations will be conducted around the clock, 24/7, rather than focused on night-time presence only, as on the first two days. Trumps decision to invoke a provision of the Home Rule Act allowing him to take temporary control over the Washington police has put the entire US political systemCongress, the courts and mediato the test. Without exception, there has been no resistance to the coup-like assertion of presidential authority, beyond a few rhetorical criticisms of the authoritarian character of the action. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Democrat, called Trumps action unsettling and unprecedented, and later called it authoritarian, but she met with Attorney General Bondi and acknowledged that the federal government now controlled the D.C. police. Bowser called the meeting on Tuesday productive and pledged that the city would work with the Trump administration to make Washington, D.C. safe again. Several Washington-area Democratic congressmen criticized the takeover as unnecessary, given the absence of any real crime wave, but none suggested that Trump was taking the next step in a worked-out plan to establish a presidential dictatorship. The media response has similarly been muted, with the crisis in the District downplayed by Wednesday reporting in major newspapers and the television networks. The New York Times, the chief media organ aligned with the Democratic Party, did not even publish an editorial commenting on Trumps seizing control of the US capital, while the Washington Post criticized it only from the standpoint that it would not be sufficient to stop crime. Trumps actions in the District, whether they end in 30 days or continue indefinitely, are setting a dangerous precedent. He has already threatened similar measures in cities like Chicago and New York. He is also testing out the machinery of repression that would be required either for a direct seizure of dictatorial power, or the suppression of mass resistance in major cities to his immigration raids or other provocations. In that regard, testimony in a federal district court in California is revealing. The case involves the challenge by the state of California to Trumps order federalizing the National Guard and deploying 4,000 California National Guard troops into Los Angeles to back up violent immigration roundups. Testifying Tuesday, Maj. Gen. Scott Sherman, who commanded the National Guard troops, revealed that he had been rebuked by a top Customs and Border Patrol official when he questioned the planned joint federal-state sweep of MacArthur Park, in a heavily immigrant neighborhood of Los Angeles. After Sherman objected to sending heavily armored military vehicles through the park, the CBP official, Gregory Covino, questioned his loyalty to the United States. Nearly a decade after her 2015 refusal to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, former Rowan County, Kentucky clerk Kim Davis has filed a petition for a writ of certiorari with the U.S. Supreme Court. The petition seeks to overturn a lower court ruling requiring her to pay $360,000 in damages and attorneys fees and, more broadly, calls for the Court to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges. In this Sept. 1, 2015, file photo, Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis listens to a customer at the Rowan County Courthouse in Morehead, Kentucky. [AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley] In Obergefell (June 26, 2015), the Supreme Court held that the fundamental right to marry applies to same-sex couples under both the Due Process Clause and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. This decision invalidated state bans on same-sex marriage and established marriage equality nationwide. Following that ruling, Davis, then county clerk, refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and was briefly jailed for defying a court order to comply with the high court ruling. Davis contends that the First Amendments Free Exercise Clause should shield her from personal liability for denying marriage licenses based on her religious beliefs, particularly since the lawsuit for damages was filed against her in her individual capacity. The Free Exercise Clause protects the right of Americans to practice or abstain from religious acts according to sincerely held theistic or non-theistic beliefs, as reinforced by the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). RFRA requires that any government action substantially burdening religious exercise must meet a compelling interest using the least restrictive means. The Establishment Clause, by contrast, bars the government from creating, endorsing, or coercing adherence to any religion, functioning as a safeguard against theocracy and applying to states via the Fourteenth Amendment. It ensures institutional separation between church and state and shields religious minorities from government pressure. Together, the two clauses were conceived to maintain governmental neutrality: the Establishment Clause prevents official support for religion, while the Free Exercise Clause protects individual practice. This permits accommodations that relieve burdens on religious exercise without improperly promoting religion. Daviss petition couches her demand in the language of religious liberty, claiming that the First Amendment shields her from the obligation to follow laws that conflict with her personal religious beliefs. But Davis was acting as a public official and explicitly invoking Gods authority to deny a state service, which directly implicates the Establishment Clause. Her actions were an attempt to impose her religious views using the machinery of the state. This is not merely an exercise of personal faith; it is an assertion of religious authority within a government office, which directly violates the principle of governmental neutrality. Far more significant than Daviss personal grievances is her request that the Court declare that Obergefell was wrongly decided. If granted, it would open the floodgates for state governments to deny marriage licenses to same-sex couples. At least nine Republican-controlled states have already passed trigger laws designed to go into immediate effect upon Obergefells reversal, banning same-sex marriage within their borders. The immediate implications would be substantial. Roughly 700,000 same-sex couples are currently married in the United States. Overnight, couples in large swaths of the country could see their marriages rendered void or unrecognized by their home states. This would jeopardize a vast range of federal and state-based rights tied to marital statusincluding inheritance, joint adoption, parental rights, hospital visitation, tax benefits, and crucially, immigration status for binational couples. Many could face the forced separation of families, eviction from spousal health insurance plans, and the loss of legal protections in child custody disputes. More fundamentally, a ruling in Daviss favor, although unlikely according to most legal experts, would compromise the secular foundation of the state in favor of religious supremacy. The attack on Obergefell is part of the same reactionary drive that culminated in the Supreme Courts 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson decision overturning Roe v. Wade. In that case, fundamental rights were stripped away by an unelected body acting as the political instrument of a capitalist oligarchy that increasingly dispenses with even the limited democratic protections of the past. As for anti-abortion trigger laws, they went into effect upon the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Demonstrators gather at the federal courthouse following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, Friday, June 24, 2022, in Austin, Texas. [AP Photo/Eric Gay] Like Roe, Obergefell rests on the Fourteenth Amendments guarantees of equal protection and due process. Those same principles were the basis of Loving v. Virginia (1967), which struck down state bans on interracial marriage. Justice Clarence Thomas has already signaled in concurring opinions that he regards Obergefelland by extension Lovingas wrongly decided, laying the groundwork for a frontal assault on both. This is not merely a social or cultural issue. The assault on the rights of LGBTQ+ people is inseparable from a broader attack on the working class as a whole. The ruling class targets the most vulnerable layers first, testing methods of repression, creating legal precedents for the restriction of rights, and whipping up reactionary constituencies to divide workers along lines of sexuality, race, gender, and nationality. The WSWS warned in 2015 that the Davis case was used by reactionary forces as a way to drum up support from the Religious Right and that it was part of an attack on other fundamental rights. Reactionaries misuse the language of democratic rights as a way to restrict the rights of others, leading directly to the extreme Orwellian phrases echoed by todays fascistic Trump regime. Freedoms and rights fought for during the First American Revolution in 1776 and the Second American Revolution during the Civil War are all under attack. Now, as social inequality becomes increasingly incompatible with democratic rule, the same capitalist state that now threatens to eliminate marriage equality is simultaneously assaulting other basic rights. Freedom of speech is under direct attack, with bipartisan repression of student protests against the US-backed genocide in Gaza. Freedom of assembly is under attack with the bloodthirsty fascist spearheading Trumps anti-immigrant campaign, Tom Homan, declaring that any citizen caught up in immigrant raids should understand that as a consequence of assembling with immigrants. The Fourteenth Amendment is under extreme threat by Trump declaring that children born on American soil should not be afforded birthright citizenship. Rights held by people accused in the legal system are being broken down as immigrants are taken directly from the courtroom to the detention center with no way to challenge their kidnapping. Religious obscurantism, deliberately cultivated by figures like Trump, is wielded as a political weapon to disorient and divide workersdespite the fact that these same forces are steeped in corruption and scandals, including their connections to Jeffrey Epsteins vast network of sexual abuse. The Democrats have proven entirely unwilling to mount any serious defense of these rights. Under Biden, Dobbs was handed down without any meaningful resistance. The administration had months between the leaked opinion and the official ruling to mobilize public opposition or push legislation to codify abortion rightsyet did nothing. Their only legislative response to the threat against Obergefell was the Respect for Marriage Act, a toothless measure that does not prevent states from banning same-sex marriage but merely requires them to recognize marriages performed elsewhere. The defense of democratic rightsincluding the right of same-sex couples to marrycannot be entrusted to the capitalist parties, both of which represent the interests of the financial oligarchy. Even when such rights are won, as in Obergefell, they remain precarious so long as the political system is controlled by the same class that tramples on them whenever it deems necessary. The attack on marriage equality, like the attack on abortion rights, demonstrates that there is no constituency for the defense of democratic rights within the ruling class. Their preservation and expansion depend on the independent political mobilization of the working class in a struggle for socialism, against the capitalist system that breeds inequality, repression, and reaction. The July 2-6 Representative Assembly of the National Education Association (NEA), held in Portland, Oregon, passed a resolution calling for breaking off the partnership between the union and the Zionist Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The NEA, is, alongside the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), one of two major educators unions and is the largest trade union in the United States, with over 3 million members. NEA President Betsy Pringle addresses convention [Photo: NEA] Within a week, the nine-member Executive Committee of the NEA quashed the resolution and maintained the status quo: educators in the NEA are to allow the right-wing, pro-genocide ADL to continue to implement its curriculum in schools and to sanction the ADLs dishonest practice of posing as a legitimate civil rights organization to young people and their educators. The NEA leaderships action was entirely predictable. The flouting of the will of the membership is the rule, not the exception, and educators have repeatedly paid the price in jobs, wages and benefits and in support for genocidal and warmongering governments. If educators want to expel the ADL from schools, let alone stop the mass murder in Gaza, they will have to break politically from the wealthy functionaries who call the shots in the unions and form new, independent organizations of struggle. It was entirely legitimate to pass a motion to break with the ADL, but such a move must be part of a struggle to expose and abolish the pro-imperialist union bureaucracy. The resolution, moved by Educators for Palestine, an officially recognized caucus in the NEA, read: NEA will not use, endorse, or publicize any materials from the Anti-Defamation league (ADL), such as its curricular materials or statistics. NEA will not participate in ADL programs or publicize the ADLs professional development offerings. Educators have been encouraged and often required by administrators to cooperate with this organization, which equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism and implicitly associates Zionism with opposition to bullying, bigotry and racism. The opposite is, in fact, the case. This is the organization whose CEO, Jonathan Greenblatt, said last year that students protesting the genocide were acting like members of ISIS and Al Qaeda, and compared the keffiyeh, the traditional Palestinian national scarf worn by millions to show their support for the Palestinian people, with the Nazi swastika. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and Anti-Defamation League participates in the "Addressing antisemitism" panel discussion during the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. [AP Photo/Markus Schreiber] But in a cowardly and lying statement, President Becky Pringle told NEA members: After consideration, it was determined that this proposal would not further NEAs commitment to academic freedom, our membership, or our goals There is no doubt that antisemitism is on the rise. Without equivocation, NEA stands strongly against antisemitism. We always have and we always will. Our Jewish students and educators deserve nothing less. President of the National Education Association Becky Pringle, right, and President of the American Federation of Teachers Randi Weingarten speak during the Democratic National Convention Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, in Chicago. [AP Photo/Erin Hooley] The Executive Committee was echoing the propaganda promoted for months by the Democratic and Republican politicians, campus and school administrators, and the corporate media that the protests against the Gaza genocide can be equated with antisemitism. This type of anti-working class reaction is not a new role for the union bureaucracy. NEA President Pringle, a long-time NEA bureaucrat, began her term as president in 2020 by working closely with American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten to implement the Biden administrations deadly program of opening the schools at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, Pringle claimed that schools could be opened safely with proper mitigation measures, which were never put in place, leading to the Omicron COVID surge and the prevalence of respiratory diseases among teachers and children. Along with the bureaucracy of the AFT, the NEA spends millions of dollars on Democratic Party candidates who support the arming of the Zionist state and justify every heinous action it carries out. This includes Joe Biden in 2016 and Kamala Harris in 2024 (to whose campaign the NEA contributed at least $3 million), both responsible for material support to the Zionist regime. The specific role that the Zionist ADLalso closely associated for decades with the Democratic Partyplays for the ruling class in the schools is to present itself as a civil rights organization that fights for justice and fair treatment for all. Its flagship No Place for Hate educational program has developed a curriculum that has lessons on how to recognize and understand the multiple dimensions and complexity of identity and understand how hate can escalate when biased attitudes go unchecked. Each year it publishes widely cited figures on antisemitic incidents in the United States, which, notoriously, conflate real antisemitic acts again Jews with entirely legitimate protest against the state of Israel. The ADL is well known for working with police departments across the United States, including by giving police chiefs and their staffs counter-terrorism training. Because of the opposition of many educators to Israels brutal oppression of the Palestinians, the union has been forced to verbally oppose Israels military actions in Gaza. Last year, the NEA committed itself to nothing when it signed, along with six other major American trade unions, an open letter to the Biden White House requesting that it cut off military assistance to Israel shortly before Netanyahus notorious appearance before Congress. The resolution ignored the call of the Palestine Confederation of Trade Unions for an embargo on the shipment of weapons to Israel and did nothing to distance itself from the Biden administration and the Democratic Party, the quartermasters of the genocide in Palestine. The NEA Executive Committee is, like the rest of the trade union bureaucracy, an agency of the capitalist state and American imperialism. Inseparably connected to this is the role it plays in the class struggle as labor cop, seeking to prevent, shut down, and isolate strikes, as it has demonstrated many times, from the 2019 West Virginia strikes to sellouts by the MTA last year, to the recent maneuver of the California Teachers Associations We Cant Wait campaign. The membership of the AFT was able to pressure Randi Weingarten into calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, something well within the bounds of Democratic Party rhetoric and essentially meaningless. She will do any job for the State Department, no matter how dirty, such as meeting with and providing moral cover for the political descendants in Ukraine of the last genocide in Europe. Her function, like Becky Pringles, is to suppress the class struggle and, along with the AFL-CIO bureaucrats, develop a war economy and supply the most essential product for war: youth to man armaments production and the military. The response of the Educators for Palestine to the quashing of the resolution by the bureaucracy has been to wag its finger and state: Succumbing to pressure put on the NEA by outside, right-wing groups like the ADL harms union power. This is a cover-up for the character and role of the NEA bureaucracy. In quashing the resolution, it is not succumbing to outside pressure from the right-wing ADL, it is carrying out its essential role as an anti-working class, right-wing agency of US imperialism and the capitalist ruling class. That role is bound up with its support for the Democratic Party, a party of US imperialism and its military-intelligence establishment. The Educators for Palestine caucus does not say this because it has its own alliances with the Democratic Party and sections of the union bureaucracy through leaders linked to pro-Democratic Party pseudo-left organizations and local unions. Of the two main spokespeople of the group, one, Judy Greenspan, is affiliated with the neo-Stalinist Workers World Party, which has long provided cover for the Democrats, and the other, Merrie Najimy, was president of the Massachusetts Teachers Association (MTA) from 2018 to 2022. Under her watch, the MTA endorsed dozens of Democratic politicians, including Maura Healy for governor, whom Najimy stated would make public education... a top priority. Another figure closely associated with the group, Jesse Hagopian, edits Rethinking Schools, a journal devoted to social justice unionism, which extols the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), run by the DSA. The CTU is now in the process of enforcing school closings and teacher layoffs in alliance with Mayor Brandon Johnson, a former functionary of the CTU who uses the term genocidal but unleashes the Chicago police against anti-genocide protesters. The pseudo-left performs an essential role for American imperialism. It makes the claimand this is the use to which the NEA resolution against the ADL has been putthat the union bureaucracy can be reformed and pushed to the left. Only one alternative is open to NEA members who want to break ties with the ADL, stop the genocide in Gaza, and call a halt to the militarization of education: that is to form independent rank-and-file committees working for the abolition of the union bureaucracy and organizing action themselves, without the permission of the bureaucrats. These committees can and must appeal to the only force that can stop the genocide: the international working class. Educators rank-and-file committees must send delegations to the docks to encourage workers to embargo shipments to Israel, and to factories to mobilize workers to stop the production of armaments. They must organize independently of and against both big business parties to abolish the very system that gives rise to wars and dictatorship, helping to develop a mass movement to expropriate the capitalist oligarchys wealth and provide massive funding for education, affordable housing, healthcare, and decent jobs. Every NEA member who wants to take this program forward should contact the Educators Rank-and-File Committee. The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature. Europe Health professionals in the Algarve, Portugal strike over staff shortages and health funding Doctors, specialists, nurses and other health professionals in the Algarve, Portugal held a 24-hour strike August 7, protesting severe staff shortages and substandard working conditions. The members of the Southern Zone Doctors Union, Portuguese Nurses Union and Union of Public Service Workers accuse the government of a lack of investment in health, including a promised new central hospital. The shortage of around 1,500 nurses is severely compromising patient care. Increased workload is leading to burnout among staff. They also say the shortage of affordable housing discourages staff recruitment. Airport workers in Portugal continue strikes over pay and conditions Frontline personnel, including customer service staff, maintenance and cleaning workers and baggage handlers, at Lisbon, Faro, Porto and other Portuguese airports began a second four-day strike August 8. Scores of passenger and cargo flights were cancelled or delayed. Further weekend stoppages are planned for the rest of the month. The Metalworkers and Allied Industries Union and Transport Union members employed by Menzies Aviation, a multinational airport service giant in 65 countries with 2024 global revenue of $2.6 billion, demand a base salary above minimum wage, night-shift payments and improved working conditions. Public sector workers at university in Ankara, Turkey walk out to demand better pay and conditions Public sector employees at the Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey began an indefinite strike Thursday to demand a living wage and shorter working hours. They were supported by METU students, who condemned the workers miserable working conditions. The Tez-Koop-is union members refuse to adhere to the recently signed government Public Framework Protocol agreement for wages and benefits in the 600,000-strong public sector. The proposed wage increases mean workers will continue to become poorer in real terms in the face of the rising cost of living. Leisure centre workers in Northern Ireland capital hold 24-hour walkout over pay Leisure centre workers at 14 leisure centres and two gyms across Belfast, Northern Ireland held a 24-hour stoppage on Tuesday. The centres are owned by Belfast city council but run by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL). The Unite and Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) members are seeking a 1 an hour pay increase to bring them up to at least the level of the living wage figure12.21 per hour for over age 21. Discussions between GLL and Unite and NIPSA were scheduled for Thursday. UK civil service pension administration staff to extend strike over union recognition Around 150 staff working for the UK civil service pension provider MyCSP, who have been on all-out strike since July 7, are to extend their stoppage until September 26. It was scheduled to end this Friday. The Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union members are protesting over MyCSPs refusal to recognise the PCS union for negotiations. MyCSP is currently in the process of TUPE (Transfer of Undertaking Protection of Employment) negotiations with Capita, a major outsourcing company. The strikers have held picket lines at MyCSP offices on Tithebarn Street, Liverpool and Landmark House, Station Road, Cheadle in England. Since the start of the dispute Capita has agreed to talks with PCS, but MyCSP continues to refuse to recognise the union for negotiations. Staff at two UK universities to walk out this week over job losses Academic staff at Bradford University are set to strike Thursday through Saturday. The University and College Union members already held six days of stoppages over plans to cut around 300 jobs to save 16 million, including closure of the Chemistry and Film and Television schools. This weeks action will coincide with the beginning of the clearing process, when students are awarded places for the new academic year. Around 340 professional services staff at Liverpool University in the Unite union are to walk out Thursday as part of an ongoing dispute over hybrid working. Currently staff are expected to attend in person two days a week, but management wants to increase this to three days a week. As at Bradford, the walkout will coincide with the beginning of the clearing process. Strikes are also planned for September 16-19, coinciding with the start of the new academic year for new and returning students. Workers are taking part in an ongoing overtime ban. Middle East Ongoing protests by Iranian workers over living conditions On Sunday, Social Security Organisation retirees held protests in the cities of Ahvaz, Karal, Rasht and Tehran. The protests highlighted ongoing electricity cuts and water shortages as well as insecure living conditions and poverty. The same day, retired steel workers held a rally in Isfahan protesting precarious living conditions. Sunday also saw protests by radiologists in the cities of Kermanshah, Shiraz, Tabriz and Yazd. They were calling for professionalisation of the service and a fair pricing for imaging services. Contract and casual workers at the Razi Petrochemical facility in Bandar Mahshahr resumed their protests on Saturday, calling for promised allowances including travel costs and cost-of-living supplements. Around 1,500 workers at the site have been calling for the payments for several months. Protests across Iran continue as 70 percent of the population live below the poverty line. US-imposed sanctions make life increasingly harsh as the Trump administration attempts its reorganisation of the Middle East in the drive for global hegemony. Africa Nurses in Migori County, Kenya continue strike over pay and promotion Nurses in Migori County, Kenya are continuing their strike begun August 8 to demand the implementation of the salary structure agreed in 2024, as well as promised promotions. The union delayed the strike from May 28. The immunisation and antenatal care units at Migori County Referral Hospital were empty, with many patients resorting to private hospitals. Nurses in Machakos County are also on strike over similar issues. Workers in Taraba State, Nigeria begin indefinite strike over use of biometric verification Workers in Taraba State, Nigeria began an indefinite strike on August 11 to register their opposition to the use of their biometric data, introduced by the government in 2014 to prevent fraud. This has led to salary delays and unauthorised deductions. A statement by Nigeria Labour Congress Chairman Peter Jediel and Trade Union Congress Chairman Sule Abasu accused the Biometric Data Capture Committee of engaging in illegal practices that had a detrimental impact on their members. NLC and TUC unions have been told to form strike committees across ministries, departments, and agencies to ensure effective enforcement of the strike. Big5 Cookware workers in Free State, South Africa walk out over union recognition Workers at Lesedi Aluminium/Big5 Cookware in Free State province, South Africa began an indefinite stoppage August 3. The 270 National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa workers are demanding union recognition. The China-based company, the largest supplier of cookware products in the country, employs 300. Before calling the strike and in line with the law, NUMSA took the dispute to the commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA), where the company attempted a filibusterclaiming the union misnamed the company as Big5 Cookware (the brand name) while workers were employed by Lesedi Aluminium. CCMA granted a strike certificate. Kalahari AutoForce drivers in Eastern Cape, South Africa walk out over pay and conditions Truck drivers employed by Kalahari AutoForce in Eastern Cape, South Africa began a walkout August 6 over pay and conditions, organising picket lines. The Tirisano Transport and Services Workers Union members are demanding a wage rise from their current R16,400 per month to R20,060. They also want better work schedules and the opportunity to drive long-distance outside Eastern Cape for higher wages. The company only employs long-distance drivers who live outside the province. According to the union, the owner wanted workers to sign a contract transferring them to a different unregistered company, which they refused. Municipal workers in Marabastad, South Africa march over pay and to demand reinstatement of sacked workers Hundreds of South African local government workers held a protest march to Tshwane House in Marabastad, Pretoria on August 6, over pay. The South African Municipal Workers Union members (SAMWU) are demanding the salary increases of 3.5 percent and 5.4 percent promised in 2021, and reinstatement of 43 workers sacked after a 2023 protest. SAMWU gave the municipality an ultimatum of seven days to respond. Students in Colorados largest school districts who face more discipline tended to have lower test scores, according to a new report that examined student behavior and academic achievement across 21 districts. Conducted by the Common Sense Institute, researchers billed the report as the first comprehensive look of its kind. It would seem like an intuitive thing that behavior would influence academic performance, said DJ Summers, CSIs director of policy and research. Founded in 2010, the institute is a nonprofit organization in Greenwood Village that conducts fiscal and economic research. The data for Denver Public Schools showed that the states largest school district had fewer per capita behavioral issues, falling in the bottom third in most categories. The findings come as DPS Superintendent Alex Marrero faced criticism for his handling of school safety following several high-profile incidents, including the case of a student at East High School shooting and wounding two administrators two years ago. The incident, in which DPS allowed the troubled student from another school district to enroll at East, was among the decisions that sparked the "Resign DPS" movement to remove board members who oversee the superintendent. The data also showed that DPS has among the highest rate of chronic absenteeism in the state at 37% of the students missing 10% or more of school in a given school year, as defined by the U.S. Department of Education. Nationally, the rate of chronic absenteeism stood at 28% in the 2022-2023 school year. Absenteeism, like behavioral issues, is widely considered an early-warning sign tied to lower achievement and higher dropout rates. Among the states largest school districts, Pueblo School District 60 had the highest chronic absenteeism rate at 43%, followed by Aurora Public Schools (40%) and DPS. Mesa County Valley (35%) and Greeley-Evans (34%) rounded out the top five. The states chronic absenteeism rate last school year was 28%. Bill Good, a DPS spokesperson, declined to comment. Last school year marked the first time this data was made publicly available. Featured Local Savings Three years ago, the Colorados legislature passed legislation requiring the Colorado Department of Education to collect, compile and create reports on information about the number of suspensions, expulsions, student restraints and law enforcement referrals annually. Among the reports findings: Chronic absenteeism, which during the COVID-19 pandemic hit 35%, was down statewide to 27.9%, but still elevated among urban school districts (28.3%). Across the states largest school districts, drug violations averaged 1.3 per 1,000 students, with Aurora Public Schools at the highest at 3.6. Districts with more student violations or higher absenteeism rates also tended to have lower SAT Math proficiency scores. Behavioral issues appeared highly concentrated with Harrison School District in Colorado Springs, which reported 389 incidents per 1,000 students nearly triple the average of the districts analyzed. Aurora Public Schools had the most violent incidents, with 27 third-degree assaults per 1,000 students outpacing the next highest district by 44%. Academic performance tends to show a strong negative correlation with both discipline and absenteeism. The CSI researchers said the report emphasized the need for school leaders and policymakers to monitor trends annually and implement policies that foster both safety and academic excellence. Summers said the report underscores how environment can shape outcomes not just in classrooms. A similar contagion effects has shown up at work with a 2017 office-seating analysis by Cornerstone OnDemand, which found that sitting within 25 feet of a high performer was associated with a 15% productivity bump, while proximity to a low performer corresponded with a 30% drop. The findings are clear: school safety isnt just about immediate well-being its also a leading indicator of academic performance, Cole Anderson, CSI deputy director of policy and research and co-author of the report, said in a news release about the study. A disruptive environment impacts every student, and if we want to close achievement gaps, we have to take school culture seriously, he said. Last Friday evening, the body of 32-year-old Ethirmanasingham Kapilraj, a married man, was found floating in an irrigation tank (reservoir) at Muthaiyankattu village in the northern Mullaitivu district. His body bore scars and injuries, indicating that he had been brutally beaten. Ethirmanasingham Kapilraj [Photo: Facebook] Relatives and an eyewitness told the media that he had been captured and beaten by soldiers from the 63rd Division camp of the Sri Lanka Army in Muthaiyankattu. This village is in the northern Vanni area, which was devastated during the final battles of the Sri Lankan militarys 26-year communalist war against the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009. The occupying military maintains a large army camp near the Muthaiyankattu tank. Kapilraj was among several young people who occasionally worked at the camp, sometimes receiving wages for jobs carried out there. According to reports, five youths from the village were lured by some army soldiers to the camp on Friday evening with claims that they could collect and remove scrap metal from the site, which was being dismantled. After entering the camp, the young men were surrounded by soldiers, who accused them of theft and began beating them with wooden and metal poles. Four of them managed to escape. One youth, who was hospitalised with his injuries, told the media: They grabbed me and hit me aggressively. They hit me on the back with a metal stick, and with their hands over my face, my chin, and also on my legs. He managed to flee. Another witness said he saw soldiers grabbing Kapilraj and beating him severely. When he did not return home, villagers searched for him throughout the night and returned to the army camp. The camp commander reportedly said that one man had jumped into the tank and suggested that searchers look for him there. Kapilrajs body was recovered from the Muthaiyankattu tank the next day. Kapilrajs brother, sister and father told the media that he had been living in Muthaiyankattu for the past two years, following his marriage. His house was near the army camp. When he and other villagers went fishing in the Muthaiyankattu tank for their livelihood, army personnel would sometimes cause problemsdestroying boats and fishing nets and using abusive language, especially when drunk. Kapilrajs brother said the family reported Fridays incident to the area police station in Oddusuddan, six kilometres away, but no officers came and no action was taken. They then informed the International Committee of the Red Cross office in Vavuniya, which in turn notified the Sri Lanka Human Rights Commission in Colombo. Police came only after that. Villagers told us the police had gone to the bottom of the pond at midnight, the victims brother said. The policeamid rising local anger over the incident, including residents gathering outside the army campeventually arrested three soldiers. A police media statement issued on August 11 said one soldier was arrested on suspicion of beating a youth, and two others were arrested for allegedly helping individuals to steal scrap metal from the premises. The police statement appears to be an attempt to frame the incident as a response to theft. When the arrested soldiers were brought before the Mullaitivu courts on August 9, the magistrate ordered them to be held in remand until August 19. The postmortem of Kapilraj was conducted at the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, where the judicial medical officer returned an open verdictmeaning further investigation is required to determine the cause of death. The Sri Lankan military and police are notorious for such atrocities, particularly in the Northern and Eastern provinces, which have been under military occupation for nearly four decades. Arrests of young people, along with torture and killings, are frequently reported in these areas. Even though the war ended in May 2009, over 100,000 army, navy and air force personnel remain stationed in large camps, with police and military intelligence units maintaining constant surveillance over the population. Residents fear that, as in the past, no one will be prosecuted over Kapilrajs killing. This young mans death occurred amid growing angernot only among Tamils in the North and East but also across the country and internationallyfollowing the discovery earlier this year of a mass grave at Chemmani Cemetery on the outskirts of Jaffna, the capital of the Northern Province. Numerous skeletons, including those of women, children and infants, have been uncovered so far. These are believed to be the remains of Tamil civilians who were tortured and killed during the civil war, many of whom disappeared during military operations in Jaffna in 1996. Several other mass graves have also been discovered in the Northern and Eastern provinces. Amid mounting anger, the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), the main Tamil nationalist party, has called for a hartala total shutdownin the North and East this Friday. Other Tamil parties have expressed support for the action. ITAK President C. Sivagnanam and ITAK Secretary M. Sumanthiran, who is also a parliamentarian, sent a letter to President Dissanayake urging him to ensure an unhindered, thorough investigation and for the culprits to be brought to book. Noting the oppressive conduct and excessive presence of the military in the North and the East, the letter urged Dissanayake to take immediate steps to remove the excessive presence of the military without delay. However, this call for the removal of the excessive presence of the military is cynical. The Sri Lankan military has been deployed in these provinces to enforce the authority of the anti-democratic, Sinhala-majoritarian unitary state over the countrys Tamil minority. Successive Sri Lankan governments have, for decades, instigated communalist policies to divide the working class along ethnic lines, suppress dissent and defend bourgeois rule. For their part, the Tamil partiesincluding ITAKhave fuelled Tamil nationalism, thereby conniving with Colombos divisive policies, while seeking devolution of power to the North and East to share in capitalist rule and to exploit the working class. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and its predecessor, the Revolutionary Communist League, consistently opposed the communal war and demanded the withdrawal of the Sri Lankan military from the North and East. They have also called for the internationalist unity of Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim workers in the fight for socialist policies. On August 12, media outlets in New Zealand reported that Sarah Shaw, an NZ citizen living in the United States, was currently imprisoned in an ICE detention facility, along with her six-year-old son Isaac. They have been illegally detained since July 24. Sarah and Isaac were kidnapped by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) while seeking to re-enter the US after a brief visit to Vancouver, where Sarah had accompanied her other two children to the airport for a flight to visit their grandparents in New Zealand. Screenshot of gofundme page for Sarah Shaw [Photo: gofundme/Victoria Besancon] The case is an example of the regime of terror that has been unleashed by the Trump administration against immigrants. Every day, thousands of people are being arrested, imprisoned, separated from their families and deported, including many who are legal US residents or even citizens. Sarah Shaw, 33, and Isaac are both legally entitled to live in the US, where she has lived for three-and-a-half years. Shaw is employed by the state of Washington at Echo Glen Childrens Center, a rehabilitation centre for young people. Shaws friend Victoria Besancon told the New Zealand Herald she only discovered what had happened two days after Shaw had been detained. Besancon said, It wasnt really until we reached out to our Washington State representatives that we even found out where Sarah was. For almost three weeks, ICE had failed to disclose Shaws location or to establish a court date. It was about two-and-a-half weeks of basically legal-sanctioned kidnapping, Besancon stated. Speaking to Radio NZ, Besancon said: I remember her on the phone being absolutely panicked. She originally thought she was being kidnapped. They were put into a giant white van, there was no markers on it, and not a lot was explained to them, so she was absolutely terrified. They were transported thousands of miles to the Dilley Immigration Processing Centre in Texas, which is essentially a prison. They are in a room with five bunk beds and are only allowed to walk about the facility between 8am and 8pm. Besancon told Stuff that Shaw was having almost daily panic attacks and that her son doesnt understand whats happening. Shaws lawyer, Minda Thorward, told the media that Shaw believed her immigration status entitled her to travel back and forth across the US border, but there had been an administrative error in processing her documentation. In the past, she would have been granted permission to re-enter the US, without being imprisoned, while the paperwork issue was resolved. Her son Isaac was imprisoned without any legal justification or pretext whatsoever. The experience had taken a huge toll in legal fees and Besancon told the Herald Shaw had completely drained her savings, and shes the only financial support she has within her family. She literally lost everything. Thorward and Besancon hope that the situation can be resolved and Shaw and her son can be released in coming days. Officials from New Zealands Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Radio NZ on August 13 that they had only been made aware of Shaws plight by the media coverage, after which they contacted Shaw. ICE did not inform Shaw of her right to seek assistance from the New Zealand embassy. The right-wing New Zealand governments response has been muted. Foreign Minister Winston Peters, who leads the anti-immigrant NZ First Party, has not made any public statement on the callous and illegal imprisonment of two NZ citizens, including a small child. On July 27, a few days after Sarah and Isaac Shaw were arrested, Peters delivered an anti-immigrant tirade. Speaking to the NZ Herald, he declared that there were concerns in places like England about the number of migrants who dont salute the flag, dont salute the values of the country, dont salute the people who were there before them. He demonised immigrants for changing cities, changing centuries of development and social life, and people feel at risk because of it. While using the similar xenophobic and racist rhetoric to Trump, New Zealands National Party-led coalition government is strengthening its military and intelligence alliance with Washington, as part of the US-led preparations for war against China. On July 31, FBI Director Kash Patel visited New Zealand to open a new FBI office, which he said would counter the activities of China in the Pacific region. Needless to say, Wellington did not raise any concerns with Patel about the Trump administrations frontal assault on democratic rights, including its anti-immigrant rampage. The NZ governments claim that it knew nothing about the abduction of Sarah and Isaac Shaw until it was reported in the media strains credulity, given the close ties between the two countries. On August 8, the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE), the union covering Shaws workplace, finally issued a public statement calling for the release of Sarah and Isaac. Around the same time, Besancon set up a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for Shaws legal fees. New Zealand officials remained silent for four more days until they were approached by the media for comment. Officials made perfunctory statements that they were investigating the detention of Shaw and her son, while refusing to condemn ICEs illegal actions. It must be added that the WFSE has done nothing beyond issuing its belated statement pleading for ICE to release the Shaws and appealing for donations to the GoFundMe campaign. The unions president Mike Yestramski said our union stands ready to help and support them in any way possible. An injury to one is an injury to all. Yet the WFSEs 52,000 members have not been mobilised in any industrial action to oppose the imprisonment of Shaw and her son. Across the US, the union bureaucracy and the Democratic Party have worked together to suppress any effective action against the Trump regime as it rips up basic democratic rights and kidnaps migrants. As the WSWS has explained, the fascistic assault on immigrants is aimed at scapegoating them for the deepening poverty and social inequality caused by the crisis of the capitalist system. The fight to defend immigrant workers, therefore, can succeed only through the unified mobilization of the working class as a wholeblack, white, native-born, immigrant, documented and undocumented alike, as part of the fight for international socialism. Workers must organise independently of the capitalist parties and in opposition to the pro-capitalist union apparatus, by building rank-and-file committees in every workplace, school and neighbourhood to oppose ICEs deportation operations and prepare collective action to stop fascism and dictatorship. Elevenlabs AudioNative Player Leon Trotsky, co-leader of the October Revolution and founder of the Left Opposition, was sentenced to death in absentia at the Moscow show trials in 1936 [Photo] Between August 2 and August 9, the Socialist Equality Party (US) held its biennial Summer School, attended by members of the SEP in the US along with delegates from all the sections and sympathizing groups of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). The subject of the 2025 Summer School was Security and the Fourth International, the investigation initiated by the ICFI in May 1975 into the assassination of Leon Trotskyco-leader of the Russian Revolution and founder of the Fourth Internationalwho was murdered by Stalinist agent Ramon Mercader on August 20, 1940. As the investigation revealed, the Stalinist GPU prepared and organized the assassination through the systematic infiltration of agents into the Trotskyist movement, including the Socialist Workers Party in the United States. Today, the World Socialist Web Site publishes the introductory report to the school, The Place of Security and the Fourth International in the history of the Trotskyist movement, delivered by David North, chairman of the SEP (US) and the International Editorial Board of the World Socialist Web Site. In the coming weeks, the WSWS will post the video and text of all the lectures presented at the school. Over seven days, the summer school reviewed in detail the Security and the Fourth International investigation, situating it within the historical trajectory of the Trotskyist movement. This was accomplished through 29 intensive lectures, a significant number of which were delivered by newer members of the movement. As North noted in his opening remarks, We have before us a very challenging week. The lectures will encompass a huge amount of material relating to history, politics and even law. But we are living in challenging and dangerous times, and objective events will impose huge demands upon our cadre. The school began with lectures on Trotskys Theory of Permanent Revolution, the strategic foundations of the 1917 October Revolution and the program of world socialist revolution. These lectures established the continuity connecting the perspective that led the October Revolution to victory, Lenins last struggle against nationalism and bureaucracy in the Soviet state, and the Left Oppositions fight against Stalinism and the theory of socialism in one country. From there, the lectures traced the vast and horrific consequences of the Stalinist repudiation of international socialism. The betrayal of the 1926 General Strike in Britain and the Chinese Revolution of 192527, the catastrophic defeat of the German working class in 1933, and the betrayals in Spain and France in the 1930s paved the way for the triumph of fascism in Europe and the outbreak of the Second World War. Of exceptional significance was a lecture which documented the immense influence within the Soviet Union of the Trotskyist opposition to the Stalinist bureaucracy well into the 1930s. The school then examined the Stalinist campaign of political genocide against the revolutionary Marxist vanguard. The Moscow Trials and the Great Terror of 193738 were the centerpiece of a vast purge aimed at eradicating every surviving representative of the October Revolution. Between 1935 and 1940, nearly 2 million people were arrested on political charges in the Soviet Union, of whom 688,503 were shot. Thousands of socialist workers and the intelligentsia were annihilated: astronomers, biologists, physicians, historians, philosophers, musicians, writers and poets. Leon Trotsky, co-leader of the October Revolution and founder of the Fourth International, was the central target of this campaign of terror. After a decade of relentless persecution and the murder of many of his closest collaboratorsincluding his son Lev SedovTrotsky was assassinated in Mexico on August 20, 1940 by GPU agent Ramon Mercader. The second half of the school provided a detailed account of the Security and the Fourth International investigation. With the initiation of the Security and the Fourth International investigation, David North explained in his introduction, the Trotskyist movement passed onto the offensive against the counter-revolutionary bureaucracies. Launched in the face of slanders, provocations and lies from the apologists of Stalinism, the investigation establishedon the basis of meticulously documented factsthe truth of the allegations it advanced. The lectures reviewed the investigations exposure of the operations of a network of GPU agents operating within and around the Fourth International prior to the assassination of Trotsky, including the assassin Mercader; Mark Zborowski, the most important GPU agent who was responsible for the murder of several leading Trotskyists, including Erwin Wolf, Ignace Reiss, Sedov and Rudolf Klement; Sylvia Callen, the secretary of SWP leader James Cannon; and Joseph Hansen, one of Trotskys secretaries at the time of the assassination, who later became an informer for the FBI. They addressed critical turning points in Security and the Fourth International: the background to its initiation in 1975; the publication of key documents revealing the operations of GPU agents in the conspiracy to assassinate Trotsky; the uncovering of evidence of SWP leader Joseph Hansens meetings with both the GPU and the FBI; and the 1977 assassination of Workers League member Tom Henehan. Three lectures detailed the origins and development of the Gelfand Case, initiated in 1979 by Alan Gelfand, who was expelled from the SWP for asking questions about Hansens ties to the GPU and FBI and the partys cover-up of the role of Sylvia Callen as an agent of the GPU. In the face of united opposition from the SWP leadership and the state, Gelfand sought to compel the government to reveal and remove its agents from the party. The depositions conducted during the case provided irrefutable evidence that the SWP leadership was compromised by government agents, and the trial concluded with the release of grand jury testimony confirming that Callen was an agent of the GPU. The Security and the Fourth International investigation exposed not only the operations of the Stalinist and imperialist state but also the political forces that sought to block and discredit it. As North explained in his introductory report: The concern with historical experience, political principles and the programmatic foundations of the Fourth International that formed the basis of the education of the cadre of the International Committee was the polar opposite of the crude pragmatism, opportunism and atmosphere of cynicism that prevailed within the Socialist Workers Party and the Pabloite United Secretariat. The leaders of these organizations could not be swayed by the evidence uncovered by the International Committee, no matter how damning. Fifty years after its initiation, the Security and the Fourth International investigation has stood the test of time. Its conclusions have been confirmed and strengthened by new evidence, including material released after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. These documents exposed critical details of the assassination plot, such as the role of Robert Sheldon Hartean SWP member sent to Mexico to serve as a guardwho was in fact a Stalinist agent. In the past five years, additional evidence, reviewed at the school, has shed new light on the role of Sylvia Ageloff, whose personal relationship with Ramon Mercader was used to facilitate Trotskys murder. The fight for security has direct and urgent relevance to the present political situation. The SEPs 2025 Summer School concluded just days before Trump deployed the military onto the streets of Washington D.C., a critical stage in the ongoing conspiracy to establish a fascistic dictatorship in the United States. This assault on democratic rights is part of a global trend, unfolding alongside the ongoing genocide in Gaza, the US-NATO war against Russia, and the intensifying preparations for war against China. In every country, the ruling oligarchy is pursuing a program of social counterrevolution, aimed at destroying the living standards and rights of the working class. At the same time, mass opposition is developing in the working class and among young people, driven by the deepening crisis of capitalism. The decisive question, however, is that of leadership. The building of such a leadership is inseparably bound up with bringing forward the history of the socialist movement, including the strategic lessons of the Security and the Fourth International investigation. The body of evidence reviewed at the school will form the basis for lectures and meetings in the coming months to mark the 85th anniversary of Trotskys assassination and to deepen the political lessons of the struggle waged to uncover the truth. All readers of the World Socialist Web Site are urged to study carefully the lectures from the SEP 2025 Summer School which will be published in the coming weeks, as an essential preparation for the political struggles now unfolding in the United States and throughout the world. BOUAKE, Ivory Coast (Reuters) -Bullet-riddled buildings still line some streets in Ivory Coast's former rebel capital Bouake, but in the run-up to his third re-election bid President Alassane Ouattara is keen to turn the city into a symbol of recovery. "Bouake is a city of past pain, but above all rebirth, unity and renewed brotherhood," the 83-year-old incumbent said in his Independence Day speech last week, ahead of a parade in which he waved to supporters from a black armoured convertible. It was the first time Bouake hosted independence festivities in over 60 years, sending the message that "peace has returned" after the civil war that preceded Ouattara's swearing-in in 2011, said political analyst Geoffroy Julien Kouao. Yet away from the pomp of official ceremonies, ex-combatants and other Bouake residents tell a more complex story of lingering division and economic struggle. "When we go to a company to apply for jobs, we are turned away because they (employers) know we have taken up arms... They (employers) are afraid of us," said Fousseni Toure, member of a civil society group that advocates for former fighters. Ivory Coast, the world's biggest cocoa producer, effectively split in two after a rebellion in 2002 against then-President Laurent Gbagbo, and Bouake became the headquarters of the New Forces rebels, many of them from Ouattara's Dioula ethnic group. The war was largely a result of xenophobic policies against farmers from Burkina Faso and Mali that also targeted northern Ivorians with cultural ties to them. Thousands of U.N. peacekeepers deployed and new elections were held in 2010, but Gbagbo refused to accept defeat to Ouattara, setting off four months of violence that killed around 3,000 people. RECONCILIATION ELUSIVE Ouattara, a former international banker who announced last month he would seek re-election, is widely credited for Ivory Coast's steady economic growth since he took office. Some former combatants say they have benefited. Alissou Ouattara, no relation to the president, supports his wife and five children by running a small restaurant and coffee kiosk. "I earn my living properly," he said. "I don't envy anyone." Other ethnic Dioulas have had a harder time, partly because of conflict with so-called "autochtone", or indigenous, ethnic groups who are more likely to support Ouattara's political opponents, said Soumaila Doumbia, coordinator of the Bouake-based Civil Society Platform for Peace and Democracy. "There are political actors who remain in the shadows to exploit young people so that they can come into conflict," he said. During the last election, in 2020, clashes killed 85 people. The exclusion of Gbagbo and Tidjane Thiam, leader of the opposition PDCI party, from the next ballot means the climate could be tense again when Ivorians vote on October 25. An Ivory Coast court ruled in April that Thiam was ineligible because he was a French national when he registered, while Gbagbo cannot run because of a past criminal conviction. Thousands of supporters of both men took to the streets of Abidjan's Yopougon district to protest over the weekend. Doumbia is nevertheless optimistic that these issues can eventually be resolved for good. "We are certain that in the months and years to come, Bouake will be a reconciled city," he said. (Reporting by Loucoumane Coulibaly; writing by Robbie Corey-Boulet; editing by Mark Heinrich) By Sarah Morland MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -The U.S. FBI said it had on Wednesday returned to Mexico a stolen manuscript dating back five centuries to the Spanish conquest and signed by its leading military commander, Hernan Cortes. Special Agent Jessica Dittmer, a member of the FBI's Art Crime Team in New York, said the document contains a detailed accounting of the logistics related to Cortes' journey to what eventually became New Spain - a territory that stretched from Central America to modern-day Washington state. "This is an original manuscript page that was actually signed by Hernan Cortes," she said in a statement. "Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexico's history." Cortes landed in Mexico with a small army in 1519, when he formed alliances with local groups that opposed the Aztec empire, which helped him capture the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan - modern-day Mexico City - just two years later. The document is dated February 20, 1527, just days before one of Cortes' top lieutenants was appointed co-governor of the conquered territory. It was a key year for the formation of royal and religious institutions that would rule over the indigenous peoples of Mexico until its 1810 war of independence. The manuscript was initially stored in Mexico's national archives, but archivists preserving the documents on film in 1993 found that 15 pages had gone missing. Based on its wax numbering system, the FBI said the document was likely stolen between 1985 and 1993. This marks the second repatriation of a Cortes manuscript to Mexico, after a letter from April 1527 authorizing the purchase of rose sugar was returned in 2023. No one will face prosecution in connection with the theft, Dittmer said, because investigators assessed the manuscript had changed hands several times since it disappeared. The U.S. antiques market is valued in the tens of billions of dollars, largely concentrated in New York auction houses. Mexico has for decades sought the repatriation of cultural artifacts, including a delicate headdress made of iridescent quetzal feathers thought to have belonged to Aztec Emperor Moctezuma II, currently housed in an Austrian museum. (Reporting by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler) I was 21 when Brokeback Mountain was released. I have such fond memories of going to the gay bar in my hometown of Minneapolis and dancing to bass-driven remixes of Gustavo Santaolallas gentle, emotive original score. Even in its house-music version, theres an inherent sadness in these songs, and sometimes thats the best to dance to. Upon its release, Brokeback Mountain felt very validating, but also very melancholic because it felt like wed come so far and yet still had so far to go. More from Spin: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats difficult about reflecting on the cultural remnants of 2005 is the realization of how such uncertain times suddenly seem less dire, even formidably stable, in comparison to the regressive political maelstrom which has engulfed American sensibility 20 years later. And yet, in the middle of the second presidential term of George W. Bush Jr., while the Iraq War raged and Hurricane Katrina tore through the soul of Americas South, a project nearly a decade long in the making landed like a meteor, forever altering queer visibility in the cinematic landscape. On September 2, 2005 Ang Lees Brokeback Mountain premiered at the Venice Film Festival, nabbing the prestigious top honor of the Golden Lion, and launching an awards campaign which would bear significant fruit. Queer representation suddenly felt as if it had reached a pinnacle long out of reach thanks to a film headlined by rising A-list stars Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. They portrayed a pair of lovestruck cowboys in 1960s Wyoming, where rigid cultural dictates and virulent homophobia demanded they remain closeted for their survival, inevitably suffocating a romance doomed from its onset. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite anticipated critiques of a narrative defined by queer tragedy and miserabilism, conversationsthus, our consciousnessabout queer inclusivity suddenly began to shift. Retrospective conversations conform to a template which decries the casting of heterosexual actors inhabiting gay roles, but our ability to eventually make such demands and distinctions was certainly assisted by the success of Brokeback Mountain and the participation of its matinee stars, which assisted in broadening the horizons (and legacy) of the film. In short, like most queer films of the period, it depended on appealing to the heteronormative, which means walking a fine line between titillation and empathy. Heath Ledger at the Park Hyatt in Melbourne to promote the Brokeback Mountain. (Credit: Newspix/Getty Images) Brokeback was not alone in a burgeoning landscape of celebrated queer films from 2005, with Felicity Huffman in TransAmerica and Cillian Murphy in Neil Jordans Breakfast on Pluto bowing to certain acclaim, while Philip Seymour Hoffman took home a Best Actor Academy Award for portraying the effete iconoclast Truman Capote. But certainly no film sent tongues wagging more than Ang Lees overture, which was expected to win Best Picture at the Academy Awards, only to be locked out by the Academys unwillingness to bestow a queer film with top honors, instead awarding the Paul Haggis title Crash in one of the award shows most notable upsets in its prolific history. But the film didnt go home empty handed. Of its eight nominations, screenwriters Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana won Best Adapted Screenplay (based as it was on the 1997 short story by Annie Proulx), Best Director for Ang Lee, and Best Original Score for Argentinian musician Gustavo Santaolalla (who would win a second Academy Award a year later for Babel). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following a theatrical re-release of the film for its 20th anniversary to celebrate Pride month, the soundtrack is slated to receive a vinyl release for the first time. Alongside Santaolallas original score, the release also included performances from Willie Nelson, Rufus Wainwright, Teddy Thompson, Emmylou Harris, Steve Earle, and Linda Ronstadt. To commemorate the release, Gustavo Santaolalla shared his recollections of working with Ang Lee, how the score bolstered the films cultural impact, and, in his own words, how as humankind we have evolved to some point, but suddenly it seems that we went back 50 years. How were you first approached with Brokeback Mountain? Its funny because I have a multifaceted career. Ive done lots of different things. I started as an artist and producer making records when I was 17 years old and signed with RCA in Argentina. At the time there were no producers of the music that I was doing, alternative music. I dont think even the word alternative music was coined then. Then I started really getting into production in the mid-80s, and I had a wonderful phase in my career doing that and won a lot of Grammy Awards. I was always told that my music was very visual. As a matter of fact, I wanted to study cinema. I was always a big film buff since I was a kid. Unfortunately, when I finished high school, I was already making records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The military rulers at the time led me to leave the country and they closed the Institute of Cinematography. There was no more school for cinema so I just devoted myself to my musical career, but I always have this attraction for cinema. Really the first movie that I did was Amores Perros. When I was doing Amores Perros Id already released this album called Ronroco, named for this beautiful instrument, which actually I dont use in Brokeback Mountain. I think its probably the only movie that I havent used that instrument. That album led somebody to tell Alejandro G. Inarritu, You should have this guy do the music for Amores Perros. I met Alejandro, who asked me if I knew Walter Salles, which then led me to do Motorcycle Diaries. When we were presenting Motorcycle Diaries at Sundance they signed a distribution deal with Focus Features. Of course, Focus got me in touch with the script for Brokeback Mountain, which I loved when I read it. Then, I learned that it was based on that New Yorker story by Annie Proulx. At the time I was touring with Osvaldo Golijov, a classical contemporary composer, producing one of his works and playing some of my stuff with him too. We were rehearsing at Carnegie Hall. Finished the rehearsal, and I received a phone call asking me to meet Ang Lee in Manhattan at the Focus office. I remember I took the subway, and I had my ronroco with me. I came in and we didnt talk that much, but he pointed at the instrument so I started playing. He told me about his idea of using a guitar and it was incredible because I had the same idea when I read the script, the idea of something very spare. I knew my taste in composition, my use of silence and space. I came back to Los Angeles and started writing, composing, and recording, because thats my way of notation. I dont know how to read or write music. I did my guitar pieces and the themes of the leitmotifs. I sent them what I composed three weeks after that. I got a phone call a week later from [film executive] James Schamus and he was laughing because when Ang Lee heard it, he said, Damn, this music would be perfect for the movie. And James told him, No, this is the music for the movie. I remember that phone call as it ended up with James telling me, Well, Ill see you at the Oscars. Imagine. This was only my fourth movie, right? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the most remarkable things, I think, is the fact that I gave him a ton of music. He used all of it. And all this music was prior to one frame being shot. Nothing was filmed. I did the music on the basis of the script and my connection to the story and the characters. It was obviously Angs genius to say, Were going to put this here, were going to repeat. When I saw the first cut of the movie, it was spooky because you couldnt believe that [the music] was done prior. Since then, obviously in 21 Grams also, 70% of the music Ive composed [was] prior to seeing anything. Then obviously, you adapt. But the themes, the sonic fabric, its all there. I remember when James praised my use of negative space, and Ive never heard that phrase before. I just knew that I always loved to work with silence. Im always talking about eloquent silences, not silences that are just empty, but silences that sometimes are louder than the loudest note. For Brokeback it was great because those characters didnt talk that much as they were surrounded by silence, outside silence, and inner silence, too. It was an incredible experience. Also, I could make use of some of the things that also became trademarks. I have an affinity for wrong notes. Thats why I also love mistakes. We, human beings, make mistakes all the time. I love mistakes because some mistakes are really truly hidden intentions. I have a nice story that connects with Brokeback. When I came to this country, in 1978, I was really bummed with the rock music situation here. I was coming from Argentina, where I was put in jail many times just for having long hair and playing electric guitar. Music still had that countercultural feeling. When I came here, bands like Boston, Kansas, were considered popular rock. But I preferred this new thing, which was punk. I belong to that generation and I embraced that as this movement had the energy I think this music should have. Gustavo Santaolalla. (Credit: Alejandra Palacios) So Im just sending my music around town and dont get an answer from anybody. Until one guy from a publishing company, an important publishing company, reached out. I met with a guy. We listened to the tape. I brought my guitar, I played some songs, and then we started talking. The guy said, Listen, I got to tell you. You have a beautiful voice. You have great songs, great melodies. In every song, in every musical piece, at a certain point, you seem to hit the wrong chord. You seem to hit a wrong note in every single piece. I told him, Probably this means that were not going to work together, but I have to tell you that I take this as a compliment. I am looking for that point of inflection. Im looking for that imbalance moment. Thirty years later I was reintroduced to him at a party for Neil Young. When this producer realized it was me, I reminded him You told me that my music was good. My pieces were good, but at a certain point, I hit the wrong note. I hit the wrong chord. But when I met Anne Hathaway on Brokeback Mountain, she told me, Man, in that intro when you hit that dissonant chord, thats genius. Some people now like that wrong note. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I also play the guitar and I leave the noises made by the instrument. Lots of people, when they play and record the guitar, theyre trying to avoid any noises when you run your hand on the fretboard. Sometimes I have even pushed those because it gives a human factor to it. Thats why I have gotten lots of comments that sometimes my music works as a character in the movies. Those elements and those trademarks are still present in the music of The Last of Us, or in the music of all the other works that Ive done, too. Brokeback obviously was the first time that gave me the opportunity to show this thing to the world. It was incredible at that point in my life when that happened. Ive already done so many other things, but the Oscars really, its another kind of beast. Its a totally different thing. Imagine what it was like for me. Unbelievable. Since I was a kid, I always felt that I had something that could connect with people, with my music. But I never imagined something like that would happen to me. Looking back, I dont think you can recall Brokeback Mountain without the score. Its synonymous with the characters. Its interesting listening to you mention silence and dissonance. To quote you from a past interview, We search for identity through music. Your score is the audio identity of these characters. Thats the best compliment that you can get. When somehow you feel that the music is an extension or another part of the character, it completes the character. Even speaking about melody, its rare that it crystallizes in such a beautiful way. Reading about your life, it struck me that you have a lot of interesting parallels with gay men in the U.S., pertaining to your youth, fleeing the dictatorship in Argentina. I dont know if this was true, but I read that the church suggested you undergo an exorcism as a youth. Is that true? Yes, because I was raised Catholic, and I wanted to be a priest when I was very young. I was an altar boy. I had my first spiritual crisis when I was 11 years old. It wasnt because a priest did anything to me. Unfortunately, one has to make that clear. In the Catholic church, theyve covered awful abuses for years. No, it was truly a philosophical questioning about some of the principles of the church. I went every Sunday to church, I had communion, and as I said, I was an altar boy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My thought, which I went and talked to the priest about was, I said, If God is almighty and all kindness, how can eternal punishment exist? If you violated one of those 10 commandments, you will be in mortal sin, and then youll be eternally punished. I could barely understand if you kill someone, but even stealing? I was thinking some people steal to give their kids food. Sometimes they steal from a huge supermarket. Still, as a kid, I had that idea that it wasnt going to do any harm if somebody stole a loaf of bread. And yet, eternal punishment, this was the maxim. I asked the priest How is it possible the devil exists? Could it be that the devil actually is on Gods payroll? Imagine asking this of a priest as an 11-year-old kid. They called my parents and my dad, who was an incredible man and lost when I was very young, accepted my beliefs. They kept going every Sunday to church, but the subject of my leaving the church was never brought up in my family again. My spiritual search continues until today. I led a monastic life between 18 and 24. I lived like a monk. I had a group. A band. I lived in a commune, but it was a Yogi commune. We fasted every Monday. We didnt do any drugs or drink any alcohol. We actually were celibate. I was at the peak of my rock success with my band and I led this life for almost seven years. Director Ang Lee shows the Golden Lion Award for best film Brokeback Mountain on the final day of the 62nd Venice Film Festival in 2005. (Credit: Franco Origlia/Getty Images) In many ways, it feels imperative to take some time to revisit this film from the perspective of todays regressive climate. At the time it was already ridiculous the movie didnt win Best Picture. We won the Golden Globe with A Love That Will Never Grow Old, [a song from Brokeback Mountain] but the Academy didnt allow it to be nominated because it didnt meet a time requirement for the amount of seconds it had to be in the film. I remember watching the Oscar ceremony and being crushed about the message that was being sent. As you said, the Oscars are another beast, and I dont think at the time they felt they could give a gay film the top prize. Correct. Also, it won Best Director and several other Academy Awards, but that was definitely their prejudice. Remember, this was a movie that they were trying to do for more than 10 years, and nobody wanted to do it. Its so funny many of the main people involved in the movie were not from the United States. Ang Lee is Chinese, the director of photography, Rodrigo Prieto, Mexican. Composer, Argentinean. Jake Gyllenhaal, winner (with co-star Heath Ledger) of Best Kiss for Brokeback Mountain. (Credit: Chris Polk/FilmMagic) I think that says something about how in the United States were not able to really look at ourselves. We need outsiders to reflect on our experiences. I feel this is apparent based on how this film even got made. As a final question, how long was it before you realized the significant cultural impact of this film? Because, as you said, you have a very private way of working. You sent Focus Features this score, this film got made, and then it landed. How long did it take before you realized how big this was? To be honest, in a way, I always felt the weight of the project, the weight of the story. When I read the script, I remember thinking it really was an incredible love story about human beings in which the sexual part of it was anecdotic. It was a story about these people and how broken they were inside. Their story as human beings was transcendental. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought that this, with the combination that they were gay, was an explosive combination because of the weight of the story, because of the weight of the characters, because the human factor of it was so true. I always felt that something big was going to happen. The controversy became senseless. The message about love and about desolation and longing went beyond any criticism. Im really, really happy that theyre re-releasing the movie, that were going to have the possibility to see the movie again in cinemas. Remembering the film, especially in the days that were living. Theyre going to release the soundtrack on vinyl for the first time. There is a possibility that they will also release the score. Just the score on the vinyl. Im very happy about all this. Thank you for a really iconic film score. It meant a lot to me personally, and I think to a lot of others. Thank you so much. It is what really makes my life worthwhile. When I see that something that I do can affect people in such a positive way, and that can touch peoples hearts, it gives sense to everything that I do. To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here. The Bold and the Beautiful must-watch moments for Thursday, August 14, include Taylor questioning Ridges emotional moment with Brooke in Italy. Plus, Electra tells Will shes ready to move their relationship to the next level. Brace yourself for some big feelings. Echoes of past decisions are sending shockwaves through the present. Dont miss your favorite characters navigating the intense fallout on CBS or Paramount+. Heres What Happened Previously Ridge (Thorsten Kaye) and Brookes (Katherine Kelly Lang) trip to Italy was strictly for business, not pleasure. But being in such a beautiful, meaningful setting made it impossible to ignore their shared past. Even with Ridge newly engaged to Taylor (Rebecca Budig), every exchange between them carried a spark of something unspoken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nick (Jack Wagner) added another layer to the mix. His own history with Brooke, paired with his natural charm, brought a lighter energy to their time together. His presence contrasted sharply with the complicated tension between Brooke and Ridge, making her even more aware of the emotional push and pull she was navigating. WATCH NOW: Soap Hub Says breaks down all the buzz. The turning point came when Nick prepared to propose, but events took a dramatic turn. Brooke fell from the boat, and Ridge didnt hesitate to dive in after her. In that moment, it was clear that their connectionno matter how complicatedwas still powerful. Once they returned to Los Angeles, Ridge felt conflicted about his emotions for both Taylor and Brooke. He wasnt quite sure what to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Electra (Laneya Grace) and Will (Crew Morrow) have been dating for a while. Theyve dealt with some wild moments already and have made it through them stronger than ever. MORE: Find out what happens this week on B&B. Heres What To Watch Next On B&B Thursday, August 14, 2025 Episode 9589 Taylor begins to question Ridges emotional moment with Brooke in Italy. Electra tells Will shes ready to take the next step in their relationship. WATCH THIS: Soap Hub Says discusses the latest soap drama. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones revealed he suffered from stage 4 melanoma for over a decade but survived, according to the Dallas Morning News. Jones said his life was saved by an experimental drug treatment called PD-1 therapy, which, according to the American Cancer Society, keeps T cells from attacking normal cells. PD-1 is a checkpoint protein on immune cells called T cells. It acts as a off switch to helps keep the T cells from attacking normal cells. PD-1 does this by attaching to PD-L1, a protein found on some normal and cancer cells. When PD-1 binds to PD-L1, it tells the T cell not to attack. Some cancer cells have large amounts of PD-L1, which helps them avoid being attacked by the immune system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones received treatment from the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston after being diagnosed in 2010 and went through four surgeries over the next decade, two on his lungs and two on his lymph nodes. Jones said he is now tumor-free. After news of his cancer fight was revealed, Jones offered more details to the media Wednesday afternoon from training camp in Oxnard, California. You dont like to think about your mortality, he said. I was so fortunate to have some great people that sent me in the right direction. I got to be a part of a trial that was propitious. It really worked. Its called PD-1. It really, really, really worked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It ate my hips up. I had to have both hips replaced, because it was tough on your bones. But other than that, Im so proud to be sitting here with you guys and getting to be here doing what we do. But it was in the back of your mind. Jones has been conducting interviews ahead of the release of the documentary Americas Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys, which debuts Tuesday on Netflix. Staff writer Nick Harris contributed to this story from Oxnard. Britts return to General Hospital has fans asking on social media one pressing question: Why hasnt she called her mom, Liesl, yet? After weeks of clues and an unexpected reveal at the Five Poppies resort in Croatia, viewers are coming up with theories about the reason Britt is staying silent. General Hospital fans react to Britt not reaching out to her mother Britts comeback kicked off on August 1 when Jason overheard her voice during a strange hotel call. His investigation revealed there was no record of her cremation, sparking suspicion she might have faked her death. Anna initially advised him to let it go, but later pushed him to follow the lead that led straight to Croatia. At the resort, Britt has been avoiding work, resisting pressure from Pascal to get back into the lab. On August 13, Joss, who is undercover with Vaughn as newlyweds, spotted Britt alive and even watched her flirt with Vaughn. The following day, Joss called him out for hitting on a woman whos supposed to be dead, warning that any slip could blow their cover. Meanwhile, Britt pushed back against Pascals orders to keep a low profile, declaring she wasnt taking direction from him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fans quickly take to Facebook to voice their confusion. One asked, Serious question. Why hasnt Britt reached out to her mother to let her know that shes alive? The comment section got filled with competing theories. Some claim Liesl already knows, pointing to hints of secret communication. Others think Britts silence is about protection Theyll take her meds that she has to have! wrote one viewer. Another argued, Britt died in her mothers arms plus whatever shes working on, she doesnt even know who shes working for. One fan went for a more ominous guess, and stated, Shes probably been threatened that if she contacts anyone they will kill them. My vote is that its Victor Cassadine. One fan even tossed out the twisted possibility that Liesel is the boss. Britt dont know it though! Theories are piling up, but answers remain scarce. Fans will have to wait to find out the actual reason behind Britts silence. The post General Hospital Fans Are Confused Why Britt Hasnt Reached Out to Her Mom appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Despite her messy breakup last year, Georgia McCann didnt give up on the dating scene. The Next Gen NYC cast member confirmed this during a red-carpet interview with BravoTV.com on August 12, roughly eight months after she and crypto-trader Omar Zaki called it quits. While speaking to the outlet, Georgia revealed she and her ex hadnt really communicated since their dramatic split, but did come into contact once. Georgia McCann recalls running into her ex-boyfriend Omar Zaki It was pretty chill, she recalled about the Omar encounter. But Im good. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Georgia said she was already dating someone new at the time of the run-in, but remained relatively tight-lipped about that relationship. I was seeing someone else; it was really nice, she told BravoTV.com before suggesting she was now single. But yeah, Im just kind of focusing on myself right now. Georgia McCann broke up with the "crypto guy" she dated after Omar Zaki Georgia Mccann in front of a New York Cityscape backdrop Georgia made similar comments during a July interview with The Daily Dish, admitting her dating experience had been interesting. She said she was previously seeing another crypto guy who wanted to travel the world with her; however, the Manhattan native chose to end that romance in the interest of expanding her career. I ultimately decided to not pursue this relationship and stay in New York to focus on my career, she said. Kiki Barth in The Real Housewives of Miami Season 7 Chat LIVE with RHOM's Kiki Barth! The Real Housewives of Miami's Kiki Barth is coming to Bravo HQ Live! Ask all your juicy questions here now and join the chat Tuesday, August 19 at 3pm ET. Georgia McCann shares an update on her Channel 1 business Speaking of careers, Georgia shared a few updates on her professional life and the future of Channel 1, an underground events company she runs with Daniela Miles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres so much, she said when asked about her upcoming career moves. So, next on the gamut is world domination. I am starting a new company, and Channel 1 business is booming. Were going to do a big Channel 1 party sometime in the fall, and then a couple of other surprises, as well. But, yeah, were just focusing on world domination at this point and nothing else. Get more with Bravo Insider Sign up for Bravo Insider and read behind-the-scenes features including: Cynthia Bailey Unpacks the Differences Between Filming RHOA and RHOBH: "Night and Day" Receipts, Proof, Timeline, Screenshots: A Complete Guide According to Bravolebs Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brittany Cartwright Reveals the Real Reason She Wore That Tiny Romper to a Job Interview: "Backfired" Angela Oakley on the RHOA Beef She Squashed "Too Soon" & What You Didnt See at the Reunion Confessional Interviews 101: What Bravolebs Eat, How They Prepare & More Behind-the-Scenes Secrets How Georgia McCann's breakup affected her Club Club venture A split of Georgia McCann and, boyfriend, Omar. Georgias breakup with Omar was addressed in the Next Gen NYC Season 1 finale, shortly after she and her ex-live-in beau got into a fight while vacationing in Singapore. RELATED: Georgia McCann Reveals "Shocking Turn of Events" in Relationship with Omar (EXCLUSIVE) Related: Georgia McCann Reveals Her Party-Planning Secrets: "Can't Go Wrong" (EXCLUSIVE) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shocking turn of events: Charlie [Zakkour] and I are roommates, Georgia said in the July 22 episode. [Omar] had his assistant pack up my belongings, and my stuff was packed and outside of Charlies apartment before I even got back to the US. I was still in Singapore. Georgia said the breakup was extra complicated, as Omar was also going to invest in her nightclub/bowling alley concept, Club Club. The breakup with Omar was logistically rough because we were living together and the end was quite messy, she previously told The Daily Dish. Im doing well now and focusing on my dream life and not [living] vicariously through someone else. There was some drama with that once the breakup with Omar happened; its a long story, she continued. I have the renders that are solely based on my creative direction and [the Club Club] ethos that look fabulous the concept was based on my experience! Where does Georgia McCann stand with her Next Gen NYC castmates? The Full cast of Next Gen NYC Season 1 Related: Gia Giudice Wants to Set the Record Straight After Next Gen NYC (EXCLUSIVE) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Georgia shared the recent love-life update during DIRECTVs Plot Twist event Featuring Bravo. The celebration was hosted at The Perch by Skyline atop PENN 2 in New York City, where numerous Bravolebs gathered for a night of music, food, and activations. Attendees included everyone from The Real Housewives of Salt Lake Citys Meredith Marks and Lisa Barlow to The Real Housewives of Miamis Alexia Nepola and Guerdy Abraira to Southern Charms Craig Conover and Austen Kroll. RELATED: Meet the Next Gen NYC Cast, Who Are Navigating a *Tangled Web* (PHOTOS) Georgias Next Gen NYC castmates Ariana Biermann and Brooks Marks also stepped out to the event. Georgia told BravoTV.com that she and her cast rmained on great terms since their inaugural season wrapped. We have a group chat thats with everyone We talk all the time, she said. Its really lovely. Everyone is really moving and grooving in the city these days. So, its great! Everyones doing really well. Get more details about the Next Gen NYC Season 1 cast, including what theyve been up to after Season 1. Jelly Roll and '90s Rock Band Announce Major Concert News originally appeared on Parade. After announcing multiple shows in Australia, Jelly Roll has one more trick up his sleeve: he will be co-headlining Adelaide's Harvest Rock Festival, alongside hit '90s rock band The Strokes. As Jelly's career continues to skyrocket, it only makes sense that he starts to tour the world. And Australia is no stranger to country superstars after all, the Land Down Under famously gave us one of the biggest names in country music today: Keith Urban. Jelly real name Jason DeFord will also join "Tipsy" hitmaker Shaboozey at Australia's first-ever Strummingbird Festival, which will travel to multiple cities all over the continent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Strokes, for their part, have been legends in the alt-rock world since the '90s, with many bands that followed citing them as a major influence. (Not to mention the fact that Drew Barrymore famously dated the band's drummer, Fabrizio Moretti, in the early 2000s.) And the group is way more than their peak '90s/early 2000s fame they won their first Grammy in 2021 for Best Rock Album. While Jelly Roll's initial Australia co-headlining fest (with Shaboozey) will take place in October and November, he has a weekend in there where he'll be performing at the Harvest Rock Festival on October 26, per Billboard. The Strokes will headline the first night, October 25. Julian Casablancas of The Strokes perform at Comerica Park on August 14, 2022 in Detroit, Michigan.Scott Legato/Getty Images Not only is it time for Jelly Roll to travel the world due to his own popularity, it's also the first chance he will really get after legal trouble he got into at 16 prevented him from obtaining a passport. (Per Taste of Country, he received a felony charge of aggravated robbery, only to commit more crimes through his 20s.) While he eventually got his passport, Jelly still had a difficult time leaving the country due to the felony from when he was a teenager. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trick is when America finally says, Well let you leave, the amount of countries that wont let you come in," he told Billboard in 2023, adding that he was forced to "cancel my London debut show" because of the restrictions. There's no doubt that the "Wild Ones" artist is over the moon to hit up new countries now that he has the freedom to especially when he's headlining multiple festivals. Jelly Roll and '90s Rock Band Announce Major Concert News first appeared on Parade on Aug 14, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. Justin Bieber releases 'First Place' video. - Credit: youtube/justin bieber One week after dropping the video for Yukon, Justin Bieber is back with another black-and-white, nature-centered visual from his album, Swag. The latest is for track First Place. For the Rory Kramer-directed video, Bieber is in Northern Iceland, where he recorded much of his latest album. Hes seen specifically at Floki Studios, a scenic and remote studio located on the Trollaskagi Peninsula, also known as the Troll Peninsula. Kramer had documented much of Biebers time at the studio, and Bieber seems to find solace in the idyllic area. Hes seen galavanting around in the water, taking a dip in a hot tub, and even snowboarding. Some of his recording experience is also highlighted with studio footage. More from Rolling Stone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Bieber dropped the family-centered video for Yukon. Wife Hailey Bieber and their son Jack Blues take center stage in the video, as the trio are seen on a family vacation. Bieber surprise-released his seventh album on July 11. He began rolling out the LP just hours before, with billboards and a flurry of social media posts. His first new project in four years is also his first without being managed by Scooter Braun, who also served as executive producer on his previous six albums. Swag features guest appearances from Druski, Gunna, Sexyy Red, Eddie Benjamin, Marvin Winans, Dijon, Cash Cobain, and Lil B. Mk.gee and Daniel Caesar also contributed production to some songs on the album. Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Kate Gosselin is embracing life beyond reality TV revealing that shes now working long shifts in the medical field to support herself and her family years after her rise to fame. It was another 12-hour day, and my patient and I did a bunch of things, Kate, 50, shared in a new TikTok clip posted on Monday, August 11, just one month after joining the social media platform. My patient wants to spend time outside, and I, of course, did all of the medical care as well, feeding, bathing and all the things. I work again tomorrow morning, so I have my dishes loaded into the dishwasher, and will get my dishwasher running, so I can go to bed and get up early and do it all over again, she explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kate moved to Troutman, North Carolina, from Pennsylvania and renewed her nursing license again earlier this year. The TLC alum noted that she is often asked about what she wears while on the clock as a pediatric home health care nurse in N.C., revealing she opts for a scrub T-shirt and pants with cargo pockets. Jon Gosselin and Kate Gosselins Family Album With 8 Kids Through the Years: Photos In the comments section, one fan inquired why she still has to work such long shifts to make ends meet, to which Kate candidly replied, Honestly? Providing for 8 kids, college funds which I am proud to say covered all of their college and more and LAWYERS. Sickening but I was drug [sic] into court constantly and that costs A TON. Sad bc my kids could have a lot more saved and I could have a retirement saved if it werent for lawyers :(. Its okay. Im helping other families and I feel needed and I enjoy helping, she continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another one of her responses, Kate also spilled that reality TV doesnt pay as well as it should when you have to provide for 8 kids on your own. Kate notably became a household name while starring on Jon & Kate Plus 8 from 2007 to 2009 with her and ex-husband Jon Gosselin, their twins, Mady and Cara, now 24, and 21-year-old sextuplets Hannah, Leah, Alexis, Joel, Aaden and Collin. During her reality TV run, she also appeared in her own spinoff, Kate Plus 8, and a show about her love life, Kate Plus Date, which aired for one season in 2019. As Us Weekly previously reported, Kate and Jon, 48, were embroiled in a high-profile custody battle after they divorced in 2009. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inside Jon and Kate Gosselins Relationships With Each of Their 8 Children Following their split, Kate was awarded legal custody of all eight children, while both parents were granted shared physical custody. However, in 2018, Hannah began living with her father full-time, and Collin later joined them. Collin made headlines just days ago for his sentimental post about his estranged siblings. Forced apart, pitted against each other, he wrote alongside a photo of his brood shared on August 8. All the fame and money in the world, but what about kids being kids? I will always love them more than anything, Collin wrote, revealing his hopes to reunite and rebuild their bond. The tears I shed behind closed doors, thinking about the memories we couldve shared. I love you guys. The search for 10-year-old Kentucky boy Jayden Spicer has come to a tragic conclusion. Kentucky State Police confirmed that the boy's remains were found in a shallow grave along Canoe Road in Breathitt County at around 3 p.m. on Tuesday, August 12. Trooper Matt Gayheart said at a Wednesday press conference that Jayden's body is being transported to the medical examiner's office in Frankfort for an autopsy. Gayheart said that Spicer's mother, Felicia Gross, 33, has been taken into custody and charged with manslaughter, abuse of a corpse, tampering with physical evidence, and falsely reporting an incident. She is being held at the Kentucky River Regional Jail, according to jail records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The search for Jayden began nearly a week before his body was found, when his family reported him missing from their Jackson home on Wednesday, August 6, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader. The 10-year-old was last seen at around 9 p.m. the night before. He was wearing Sonic the Hedgehog pajamas. For more true crime news: California Woman Mysteriously Vanishes from Cruise Ship During Trip with Ex-Husband NYC Model Arrested After Husband Is Found Stabbed To Death in Harlem Apartment Young Mom Found Murdered in Upstate New York Home "With an Ax Buried Into Her Head" Felicia Gross pleaded for help Felicia reportedly wrote a statement to the public just a day after her son was reported missing, according to Fox 56. In the handwritten statement, Gross said that she wants her son to be "safe at home." "Please if anybody see my son Jayden Spicer please report it to the Jackson Police Department. Thank you. We love him very much. Please do the right thing call the police please pray for us and my son Jayden thank you," the statement continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trooper Gayheart said in an August 8 Facebook post that Kentucky State Police had "thoroughly searched all areas of priority and continue to exhaust all resources at their disposal," but had yet to find the 10-year-old. RELATED: Bodies of Two Women Found in South Carolina with One Confirmed Dead from Gunshot Wound What happened to Jayden Spicer? A break in the case came on Tuesday, August 12, when the State Police "received new information related to the disappearance" of Jayden that helped them identify a new area to search, according to a separate Facebook statement from Trooper Gayheart. That's when Jayden's remains were found and the case changed from a missing person investigation to an active criminal investigation. Gayheart added that in order to protect the integrity of the investigation, specific details in the case won't be released at this time. "I would like to take a moment to thank the many different organizations that assisted in the search efforts for Jayden," Trooper Gayheart said. "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." Ever since Prince Albert purchased Balmoral Castle in 1852, it has been the British royal familys summer retreat. Queen Elizabeth spent several weeks there with her family every summer, often staying from late July into October. In fact, Queen Elizabeth passed away at Balmoral on September 8, 2022. Following his mothers example, King Charles normally begins his summer break in August. Retreating to the secluded Scottish castle in August, Charles enjoys some private time with his family. This year, however, Charles summer break has been postponed for a special occasion. King Charles will mark VJ Day before his summer vacation at Balmoral Castle Photo Credit: Chris Jackson/Getty Images On August 15, the king will mark the 80th anniversary of VJ (Victory over Japan) Day, commemorating Japans surrender at the end of World War II. Buckingham Palace announced last week that Charles will deliver an audio message that morning. While the UK observes VJ Day on on August 15, the US recognizes the anniversary on September 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kings broadcast is only one of the ways the royal family is honoring the 80th anniversary. Charles sister-in-law Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, visited veterans at a Salisbury care home earlier this week. On August 12, the Duchess visited the home as patron of The Java Far East Prisoner of War Club 1942. She spoke with 105-year-old Royal Marines veteran James Wren, who survived the sinking of the HMS Repulse in 1941. He was later held for three and a half years in a Japanese POW camp. Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla will attend a Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum. The royal couple will also meet with veterans of WWII. Elsewhere in the UK, Sophie and her husband Prince Edward will attend a service at the Scottish National War Memorial. The service at Edinburgh Castle is sponsored by the Royal British Legion Scotland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other working royals Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, and Birgitte, the Duchess of Gloucester, will represent the monarch at two events. The kings cousin and his wife will attend the Far East Prisoners of War VJ Day 80th Anniversary Service at Norwich Cathedral. Afterward, theyll proceed to a commemorative service honoring the Children and Families of the Far East Prisoners of War in Suffolk. The royal familys VJ Day recognitions will wrap up with a reception for veterans at Windsor Castle in the fall. Then perhaps Charles and Camilla can get in a few vacation days at Balmoral. Rumor has it that Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and their two kids might stop by for a visit with Grandpa Charles. TELL US DO YOU THINK PRINCE HARRY WILL EVER RECONCILE WITH CHARLES? WILL HE AND MEGHAN GO TO BALMORAL? The post King Charles Delays Summer Break for Special Occasion appeared first on Reality Tea. Border czar Tom Homan believes President Donald Trump has no limits to his power to make the United States safe. Homan's statement comes after the president federalized Washington, D.C.'s Metropolitan Police Department in an effort to ameliorate crime in the district. Well see, Homan said when asked if 30 days was enough for Trump to make Washington safe. President Trump doesnt have a limitation on his authority to make this country safe again. Theres no limitation on that," he added. Homan: President Trump doesnt have a limitation on his authority to make this country safe again. There is no limitation on that pic.twitter.com/fFcWciVEso Acyn (@Acyn) Trump said Wednesday that he will ask Congress to extend his 30-day control over the MPD. In an evening post on social media, the president said Washington is under federal control "where it belongs." The border czar's comments come as the president receives criticism for his federalization of the MPD, signaling that Trump may also try to influence the policies of other large cities in the country. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) called Trump a "wannabe king" and said the move to federalize the district is "unjustified." "The Trump administration has consistently broken the law and violated the Constitution to further the personal and political agenda of a wannabe king," Jeffries said in a statement Monday. "We stand with the residents of the District of Columbia and reject this unjustified power grab as illegitimate." Trump said he will seek changes to crime laws in Washington and other cities. Featured Local Savings Were going to go for statutes in D.C. and then ultimately for the rest of the country, where thats not going to be allowed, he said, noting New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Trump wants Washington to serve as a "beacon" for other cities. Were going to do something, and thats going to serve as a beacon for New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and other places all over the country, he said. Our whole country is going to be so different and so great going to be clean and safe and beautiful, and people are going to love our flag more than theyve ever loved it," he added. Trump has compared his border efforts, which he views as successful, to his federal crackdown on Washington. People are feeling safe already. Ive had so many calls. Thank you, sir, thank you. They were afraid to walk out. Theyre not afraid anymore. And this will be like the border, Trump said. "This is going to be a crime-free area. By the way, youll be able to go out. People tell me they cant run anymore. Theyre just afraid, and theyll be running again," the president concluded. Homan also said he believes the nation's capital, which has had declining crime rates in recent decades, is dangerous. TRUMP CLAIMS DC IS UNDER FEDERAL CONTROL 'WHERE IT BELONGS' D.C. is a dangerous place, Homan said. I dont go on the streets at night without a gun. And, you know, its dangerous. I mean, we see the crime in D.C., and youve got the Democrats saying that crime isnt that bad. Come on. You walk through the streets of D.C. Its not safe to walk the streets at night here," he added. When artist Jim Sanborn talks about Kryptos, his sculpture at the CIA headquarters, and the famously unsolved secret code engraved in its copper panels, he sounds as if hes talking about espionage, not art. The piece has destroyed marriages, he claims. Its driven unwanted guests to his doorstep. Some aspiring code crackers have even threatened my life, Sanborn says, prompting the artist to outfit his home with panic buttons, motion sensors and cameras. But after 35 years guarding the works secrets and dealing with the drama that comes with it, Sanborn is ready to hand over the code. In November, he plans to auction off the coveted solution to the final passage, known as K4, at a sale coinciding with his 80th birthday. I could keel over at any minute and Id rest easier if I knew that things were in control somehow, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to fans shared with The Washington Post, Sanborn wrote that the decision has not been an easy one and acknowledged many in the Kryptos community will find it upsetting, but I no longer have the physical, mental or financial resources to maintain the 97 character code and continue his other projects. He writes in the letter that he hopes the buyer keeps the code a secret, dropping a rare hint to his followers. If they dont then (CLUE) whats the point? he writes. Power resides with a secret not without it. The sale, which will be run by Boston-based RR Auction on Nov. 20 and whose proceeds will go in part to programs to help the disabled, includes the original, handwritten plain text of the K4 code as well as other documents associated with the work. The secret will be transferred via armored vehicle, the auction house said. It is expected to sell for between $300,000 and $500,000, according to Bobby Livingston, executive vice president at RR Auction, though he said he wouldnt be surprised if it fetched more. The way cryptocurrency has really taken off, theres a whole world out there that this appeals to, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, since Sanborn completed the sculpture in 1990, expecting its messages would be decrypted in just a couple of years, the piece has attracted a borderline fanatical cult following. Its forged communities of decoders, been a subject of academic research, graced algebra textbooks and appeared in film, books and television, sparking a level of interest that most artists could only dream of receiving. But managing the piece has also turned into something of a job for Sanborn, who is based on an island in the Chesapeake Bay. He has fielded tens of thousands of messages from would-be code breakers, which he says have surged amid meaningless AI-generated decryptions, and even instated a $50 fee for guesses to try to slow the submissions. These days, he is working on an AI-powered phone line that will respond to callers potential solutions, possibly using his voice. And thats just the bureaucratic side. There can be an addiction in some people, he said. I try to talk them out of it as best I can. Sometimes it ends well, and sometimes it ends very badly. With Kryptoss final passage remaining unsolved, the piece could be understood as a kind of monument to secrecy, or a performance piece, starring Sanborn himself. In a news release about the auction, he noted he now clearly understands the burden of keeping secrets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elonka Dunin, an authority on Kryptos and a leader of an online community devoted to cracking the code, told The Post that she wasnt surprised by the auction, though it came earlier than expected. As a game developer and puzzle designer, I see the method as the true treasure, she said. I cant match the six-figure bids that are anticipated, but Id consider pooling resources with other solvers to preserve both the solution and the story of how its found. For Dunin, who has been seeking the solution for years, an end to the chase wouldnt be so bad. If the auction settles the mystery, Ill be glad to set aside the constant stream of theories and focus on other creative work, she said. Peter Krapp, a film and media studies professor who studies the culture of secret communications and cryptological history at the University of California at Irvine, lamented the idea of privatizing the solution through an auction, calling it both sad and logical. The knowledge that went into the piece ought to be shared, not withheld especially considering that other people, not just Sanborn, contributed to the making of Kryptos, he wrote in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CIA commissioned Kryptos in the 80s as a part of an art program that Sanborn says aimed to soften the agencys image, which had been damaged by revelations of Cold War abuses and a critical Senate investigation. Krapp says the work has become a publicity coup for the CIA, the public image of which has become tied to the artwork. The piece has fascinated all kinds of people, who seem to have little in common beyond an interest in cryptography, Krapp says. Some see it as a battle of wits, some as a test for their software, some as a hobby that keeps them engaged with cryptology after their active career at the bleeding edge has come to an end. Krapp said he is amazed at how Sanborn is capable of keeping these enthusiasts interest in his work burning bright, but without revealing anything that would ruin their search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hardly a cryptographer himself, Sanborn has been an unlikely steward of Kryptos from the beginning, noting with a laugh that he was tutored in math every summer to be able to get a D. Still, he had a passion for spy novels and when planning a piece for the Langley headquarters, he wanted to create a work that could hold its own in that environment, both conceptually and physically, he said. Sanborn worked with Ed Scheidt, a retiring CIA cryptographer, to craft the systems behind Kryptos. - (Craig Hudson/For The Washington Post) The physical work required a huge amount of blood and treasure that nearly bankrupted him, Sanborn said. He recalled hauling many, many tons of stone into the CIA courtyard through standard sliding doors on nights and weekends and spending 2 years going through nine assistants to carve more than 1,700 characters into the surface of the work. The final piece consists of petrified wood supporting a wave-shaped copper screen, which stretches around a pool of water, a peaceful design that is meant to stir contemplation. For the conceptual side, Sanborn teamed up with Ed Scheidt, then the retiring chairman of the CIAs Cryptographic Center, who spent months designing systems for encryption that Sanborn then adapted to hide his messages. The first two portions of the piece are considered easy enough for almost anyone who has studied basic cryptography to decode. K1 translates to: Between subtle shading and the absence of light lies the nuance of iqlusion, an intentional misspelling. The second passage, which is longer, describes buried information and suggests WW believed to be William H. Webster, the recently deceased former director of the CIA knew where it was. The third portion, considered much more advanced, is a passage from the diary of British archaeologist Howard Carter that describes opening up King Tuts tomb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fourth, of course, has yet to be cracked, and thats not the end. K5 is going to be somewhat inscrutable, as well, Sanborn said cryptically in the interview. Asked if hes referring to more characters that will need to be decoded, he replied, Well, I cant say now, can I? Many of Sanborn's works incorporate the surrounding environment alongside concepts from math and physics. - (Craig Hudson/For The Washington Post) Every artist is trained to make artwork which has lasting presence and lasting value, Sanborn said. - (Craig Hudson/For The Washington Post) Klaus Schmeh, an expert on the history of encryption, calls the progressing difficulty of the various portions a clever strategy to drive interest in the work. Both the solved parts and the remaining mystery make this cryptogram attractive for puzzlers and the media, he wrote in an email. He said he would like to see it finally solved, so perhaps, other mysteries of this kind would then receive more attention. Sanborn has gone back and forth on whether hes rooting for his code to fall. He mused to CNN in 2020 that he wouldnt be distraught if it ended tomorrow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in a conversation about the auction this week, he appeared more sentimental. Id rather it not, only because Im an artist, and every artist is trained to make artwork which has lasting presence and lasting value, he said, noting how one can look at a Van Gogh a thousand times and see it in a new way. And as long as Kryptos remains uncracked, theres certainly something to look at. Originally appeared on E! Online Dacre Montgomery is getting back to saner things. The Stranger Things star explained the reason he took an extended hiatus from Hollywood after playing Billy Hargrove on the Netflix series, reflecting on the change the industry has undergone over the years. Traditional Hollywood stars existed because there was mystery, Dacre recently told The Australian, per the Daily Mail. Social media has done away with that. Thats a large part of why I dropped off the map for the last five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Beyond regaining his privacy, the 30-year-oldwho starred alongside Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard and Noah Schnapp in Stranger Thingsemphasized his desire to reclaim his identity. Ive given a piece of myself to every role Ive played and thats largely why Ive taken time off, he continued. 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. More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And though he wont be starring in the upcoming final season of Stranger Things, Dacrewhose new movie Went Up the Hill, in theaters Aug. 15, marks his return to actingis looking forward to the Netflix series' end, especially for its creators Matt Duffer and Ross Duffer. I'm more excited than anything for it to be over for the Duffer Brothers, because I know they have so many other awesome stories that, years ago, they were telling me about, Dacre told ScreenRant in an interview published Aug. 6. I'm like, Guys, you haven't had the bandwidth to make this project. So, that's my most exciting thing. Plus, hes optimistic about his costar Sadie Sinks future. Stacey Newman/Shutterstock She's such a talented actress that's had some amazing opportunities over the last few years, Dacre continued. I really, more than anything, just want her to see her continue to do so many cool performances outside of Stranger Things, because I just think that she's so talented, so professional, so drivenall those sorts of things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read on for more stars who have stepped away from the Hollywood spotlight. Ellen DeGeneres The Ellen DeGeneres Show host's eponymous talk show ended in 2022 after a 19-season run amid allegations of a toxic work environment that prompted an internal investigation, multiple firings of executives and public ire. Ellen returned to the spotlight for her final standup special For Your Approval, which released on Netflix in September 2024. During the lead-up to that special, she revealed she would be leaving Hollywood altogether. "This is the last time youre going to see me," she told a crowd during her Ellens Last StandUp tour, per SFGate. After my Netflix special, Im done." Ellen and her wife Portia de Rossi have since moved to England, where they relocated in November 2024 after Donald Trump's reelection, the talk show host confirmed to broadcaster Richard Bacon in July 2025. Tyra Banks One of the reasons the America's Next Top Model host moved to Australia? To stay on top of her ice cream brand. "So I have this ice cream company, SMiZE and Dream," Tyra explained on an April 2025 episode of Today with Jenna & Friends. But we've been more what we call B2B, like on an airplane and on cruises. Ive been going to Australia a lot because we were making a lot of our ice cream there in a big facility doing our recipes. And I just fell in love with it every time I went back and went back." Not only was she happy there, but she also knew it was a good market for her business. "The three countries that eat the most ice cream?" she continued. "America, New Zealand and Australia." So, the supermodel moved to Australia with her son York (his dad is her ex Erik Asla) and boyfriend Louis Belanger-Martin, noting, "Australia has been a dream come true for me and my family." Eva Longoria While it's been a minute since the Desperate Housewives star lived on Wisteria Lane, she's since found a new address IRL. "I had my whole adult life here," Eva told Marie Claire in November 2024 about leaving Los Angeles. "But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then Covid happened, and it pushed it over the edge. Whether its the homelessness or the taxes, not that I want to s--t on Californiait just feels like this chapter in my life is done now." So for the past few years, the actress, her husband Jose Baston and their son Santiago have split their time between Mexico and Spain. "Im privileged," she continued. "I get to escape and go somewhere. Most Americans arent so lucky. Theyre going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them." However, Eva noted her move wasn't because of President Trump's re-election. "I didn't leave because of the political environment," the Flamin' Hot director said on The View: Behind the Table podcast in November 2024. "I left because my work took me there since Land of Womenshooting six months in Catalonia, then four months in Mexico for Searching for Mexico, then back to Spain. Now I've been there for years. So I just don't like that it's politicized." Since moving, Eva has continued to stay busy, with recent projects including her roles in Only Murders in the Building and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip. Richard Gere The actor has gone from Chicago to Spain. "My wife is Spanish, and she gave me about seven years here," Richard said of Galicia native Alejandra Silva on a November 2024 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. "And so we're going to spend some years in Madrid." He also expressed his excitement over what the move would give the couple's young sons Alexander and James. "Our kids are bilingual," Richard, who also has an adult son Homer with ex Carey Lowell, added, "so they're going to flourish there." Indeed, it seems the whole family has. "The truth is that you are seeing us in our momentum," The Agency: Central Intelligence star told Elle Espana in January 2025. "We are happier than ever." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christina Milian From AM to PM, the singer is living in Paris "My husband is French, and we've been together for over seven or eight years," Christina, who is married to singer Matt Pokora, said on a November 2024 episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show. "And for the last three or four years we were commuting back and forth every six months." However, they decided to officially say au revoir to the U.S. so her kidswho include daughter Violet from her former marriage with The-Dream and sons Isaiah and Kenna from her union with Mattcould study in France. "They're all going to school in Paris," she continued. "I was like, 'What better than an opportunity than that?" And life for the family appears to be magnifique. "My kids are happy there," the Dexter: Original Sin actress told E! in December 2024. "They know French. We go to the park. I have an active lifestyle that's really nice during the day. Then at night time, I do my work because I work hours ahead. It's a nice, healthy balance for me." Lindsay Lohan Lindsay is tired of rumors starting about why she left Los Angeles. So, she set the record straight while looking back at her hectic work schedule and partying in the aughts. "I feel like some of [my work] got overshadowed by paparazzi and all that kind of stuff when I was younger, and thats kind of annoying," The Parent Trap alum told Bustle in March 2024. "I wish that part didnt happen. I feel like that kind of took on a life of its own. So thats why I wanted to disappear. I was like, 'Unless theres no story here, theyre not going to focus on just my work.'" Lindsay moved abroadfirst to London then to Dubai (also opening beach clubs in Greece). However, there was another reason she sought a life away from the spotlight. "I was like, 'What if I never fall in love? What if this never happens?'" the Mean Girls star added. "And it took me just taking time for me for all those doors to open and the yeses to comethe things I wanted to say 'yes' to." Of course, Lindsay did find love with Bader Shammas, the pair marrying in 2022 and welcoming son Luai the following year. They still live in Dubai, but the Freaky Friday actress hasn't left the Hollywood industry completely, starring in movies like Our Little Secret, Irish Wish and Freakier Friday. Josh Hartnett For Josh, the decision to leave Hollywood came after some self-reflection. "Hollywood is more than a place; it's like a state of mind," the Black Mirror actor told People in July 2024. "If you're around people who are constantly talking about the movie business, your life is going to be pretty much one note. And I've never wanted that." Instead, he wanted more. "I've always wanted to be around ... people generally doing lots of other things that would bring my mind off of my work and force me to grow in different directions," Josh added. "To me, that's the spice of life." So, the Black Hawk Down alum, his wife Tamsin Egerton and their four kids moved to England's Hampshire countryside. "Time passes quickly," he told The Guardian in July 2024. "With four children, you have so much to do. In a way, less is happening. But more of the important stuff is happening." Still, Josh has stayed plenty busy and landed roles in Verity, Fight or Flight and Trap. Jesse Eisenberg If you haven't checked your social network lately, then you might not know that Jesse doesn't live in L.A. "Ive lived in Indiana for the last decade on-and-off," the A Real Pain star told CBS News Sunday Morning in February 2025. "Thats where I feel the most comfortable. Im not somebody who wants to surround myself in an industry that just feels kind of unstable to me." And while he's an Oscar nominee, he lives a pretty normal life with his wife Anna Strout and son Banner. "I'm not on social media, and I'm not a person who's on the phone with industry people all the time," Jesse also shared. "So, my life feels pretty separate. My wife is a teacher. My kid doesn't really even watch movies. So, I'm not like knee-deep in the world of constantly trying to assess my own status in an industry." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eliza Dushku Palandjian After appearing in such projects as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and 2000's Bring It On, Eliza revealed in September 2024 that she had become certified in psychedelic-assisted therapy and is furthering her studies as a mental health professional. "I had the means to shift directions and choose a course in my life that focused on healing myself so that I could help heal others," she told Boston Magazine. "I would be remiss if I didnt now share the transformation and the peace and the passion that I have. This is just absolutely so clearly my real calling, my real purpose." Rosie O'Donnell The Flintstones star revealed that she moved to Ireland in January 2025 with her youngest child Clay and was in the process of getting her Irish citizenship as her grandparents are from the European country. But while Rosie cited recent political developments as her reason for leaving, she didnt rule out an eventual return home. "I miss my other kids," she said in a video on TikTok. "I miss my friends. I miss many things about life there at home and I'm trying to find a home here in in this beautiful country. And when it is safe for all citizens to have equal rights there in America, that's when we will consider coming back." Evangeline Lilly The Ant-Man and the Wasp star announced she's taking an indefinite hiatus from acting after 20 years in the industry. "I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision," Evangeline wrote on Instagram in June 2024. "I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfillment." But she isn't necessarily shutting the door, either, adding, "I might return to Hollywood one day, but, for now, this is where I belong." Ian Somerhalder The Vampire Diaries alum hasn't sunk his teeth into a new role since Netflix's 2019 series V-Wars. Instead, he has dug a little deeper into a passion project, namely his mission to combat climate change by improving the world's soil. "I stepped away from acting a little over four years ago to raise my kids, build my companies and get these films launched," Ian, who shares two children with wife Nikki Reed, told E! News in November 2023 of launching the 2020 documentary Kiss the Ground and its follow up Common Ground, each detailing the need for regenerative farming. When he looks years down the road, the actor continued, "I will be a rancher and building legacy brands, whether it's my bourbon or my health and wellness company, and the regenerative agriculture and healthy soil management practices that I live by and our family lives by. That's where my life was going. So when people say 'Why do you care?' That's why I care. Because that's who I am, that's what I'm going to become." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jennette McCurdy On a February 2021 episode of her podcast Empty Inside, the iCarly alum told guest Anna Faris that she decided to stop acting a few years back and is now focused on opportunities in writing and directing, in addition to hosting the podcast. "My experience with acting is, I'm so ashamed of the parts I've done in the past," revealed Jennette, who detailed her experience in her 2022 memoir I'm Glad My Mom Died. "I resent my career in a lot of ways. I feel so unfulfilled by the roles that I played and felt like it was the most cheesy, embarrassing. I did the shows that I was on from like 13 to 21, and by 15, I was already embarrassed. My friends at 15, they're not like, 'Oh, cool, you're on this Nickelodeon show.' It was embarrassing." Though she hasn't totally written off a second act. "I do feel like only through writing the book have I gotten to a place where I think there might be a way of exploring acting that doesn't carry that baggage that I carried with me for so long," she told E! News in October 2022. "Maybe if I write something for myself. I think that'd really be maybe one of the only ways I could kind of try exploring it again." Meghan Markle This felt like something of a no-brainer. If we had a shot to marry Prince Harry, dedicate our life to the philanthropic causes that matter most to us and gain access to the Queen's impressive collection of tiaras, bidding ta-ta to Tinseltown would feel like an okay sacrifice. Following the path Grace Kelly took from Hollywood to the Palace of Monaco, Meghan left behind her home in Torontoand her breakout role on Suitsfor a life in The Firm. Though, now that she and Harry have shed their senior roles and live in Montecito, Calif., she's edging back into the business thanks to business moves like their multi-year production deal with Netflix. The Duchess of Sussex released her 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan as well as her 2025 lifestyle show With Love, Meghan on the streaming service. She's also launched podcasts and her brand As Ever. Cameron Diaz Having made upwards of 40 movies since her debut in 1994's The Mask, the actress was long overdue for a break when filming wrapped on 2014's Annie. "I just decided that I wanted different things out of my life," she explained to pal Gwyneth Paltrow of her ultimate act of self-care. "I had gone so hard for so long, working, making films and it's such a grind. When you're making a movieit's a perfect excusethey own you. You're there for 12 hours a day for months on end and you have no time for anything else." And there was plenty more she'd like to explore, from writing (she followed up her 2013 New York Times best-seller The Body Book with 2016's The Longevity Book) to starting a family with husband Benji Madden. But while Cameron confessed to InStyle in 2019, "I don't miss performing. Right now I'm looking at the landscape of wellness and all that," apparently she could be swayed into making at least one encore. "We just begged and pleased on my knees, like, 'Just give the people one more again,'" Jamie Foxx told E! News of getting Cameron to sign on for the 2025 Netflix film Back in Action. "We love her, we've been waiting on her and this is just gonna be fantastic." Terrence Howard The actor insisted there'd be no encore after he finished his five-year run on Empire. When Extra asked Terrence about his future ahead of the musical drama series' sixth and final season in 2019, he responded, "Oh, I'm done with acting. I'm done pretending." And though he returned to set for a handful of projects, the Oscar nominee again announced his plans to quit acting while promoting his Peacock series The Best Man: The Final Chapters in 2022. "I've gotten to the point where now I've given the very best that I have as an actor," he told ET. "Now I'm enjoying watching other new talent come around, and I don't want to do an impersonation of myself." Despite these comments, though, Howard has since appeared in a few more shows and movies, including the TV series Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist and Netflix film Shirley, with multiple projects lined up in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jack Gleeson Once his time as King Joffrey came to a sudden, purple-faced end in 2014, the then-21-year-old told EW he was getting out of the game. "I've been acting since age 8," the Game of Thrones star explained of his decision. "I just stopped enjoying it as much as I used to." No longer a child star, a bit of the magic had worn off. "Now there's the prospect of doing it for a living, whereas up until now it was always something I did for recreation with my friends, or in the summer for some fun," Jack continued. "I enjoyed it. When you make a living from something, it changes your relationship with it. It's not like I hate it, it's just not what I want to do." But after a six-year break, he was ready to resume his reign, joining the cast of BBC's series Out of Her Mind in 2020. Since then, Jack has also appeared in movies like Rebecca's Boyfriend and In the Land of Saints and Sinners as well as TV shows like Safe Harbor and The Famous Five. Phoebe Cates When Fast Times at Ridgemont High's dream girl (Jennifer Aniston took on her part in September 2020's virtual table read) wed fellow actor Kevin Kline in 1989, they "agreed to alternate so that we're never working at the same time," he told Playboy of their plan to care for son Owen and daughter Greta (a singer who now goes by the stage name Frankie Cosmos). However, he continued, "whenever it's been her slot to work, Phoebe has chosen to stay with the children." Though she made a cameo in pal Jennifer Jason Leigh's 2001 indie The Anniversary Party, Cates devotes most of her time to operating her New York City boutique Blue Tree. Rick Moranis At the height of his Ghostbusters and Honey, I... fame, the '80s star stepped away from filmmaking not long after his wife passed away from breast cancer in 1991 to focus on raising his kids Rachel and Mitchell. Though Rick hasn't had a live-action movie role since 1997, even passing on a cameo in Paul Feig's 2016 Ghostbusters remake, he's remained a treasured cultural icon, as evidenced by the outrage over reports that he'd been assaulted while walking in New York City in 2020. Thankfully there's good news for fans: He'll make his triumphant return alongside Josh Gad in the forthcoming Disney reboot Shrunk. Leelee Sobieski Once she wed fashion designer Adam Kimmel in 2010, the Never Been Kissed standout hinted that she was maybe kinda done with movies. "Ninety percent of acting roles involve so much sexual stuff with other people, and I don't want to do that," she explained to Vogue. "It's such a strange fire to play with, and our relationship is surely strong enough to handle it, but if you're going to walk through fire, there has to be something incredible on the other side." Her decision was solidified after son Martin joined older sister Louisanna in 2014. "I don't do movie stuff anymore. I am totally an outsider! I am just a mom and an outsider," she noted to Us Weekly at a 2016 event, explaining that she helps Kimmel with his business and paints on the side. "I am just focused on my kids. I think that's mainly why I stopped." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portia de Rossi She'd done Ally McBeal. And Nip/Tuck. Then Arrested Development and finally Scandal when the Aussie realized that maybe she was ready to turn the dial. "I was approaching 45 and I just kind ofwas wondering is there something that I could tackle now that I've never done before that would be really challenging and different," she explained on wife Ellen DeGeneres' eponymous talk show in 2018. "I kind of knew what acting would look like for me for the next 10, 20 years, so I decided to quit and start a business." Her consumer-art company, General Public, already a work in progress, she had just one piece to finish. "I called Mitch Hurwitz, who's the creator of Arrested Development and I said, 'If there is a season 5, I won't be doing it because I quit acting. And he seemed really understanding and he totally got it. We had a great conversation, and then he wrote me into five episodes." Daniel Day-Lewis To be fair, once you've won three Academy Awards, what's left to accomplish? Shortly after receiving his sixth Oscar nod for his final film, 2017's Phantom Thread, the thespian had his rep issue a statement informing fans that he "will no longer be working as an actor. He is immensely grateful to all of his collaborators and audiences over the many years. This is a private decision and neither he nor his representatives will make any further comment on this subject." But just when Daniel thought he was out, his son pulled him back in. In October 2024, production company Focus Features announced the Oscar winner would star in Anemone, the film he wrote alongside son Ronan Day-Lewis (who will also direct). Bridgit Mendler The Good Luck Charlie alum took a step back from the spotlight in 2018 when she began pursuing a master's degree from MIT, later earning a PhD from the institution. She also enrolled in Harvard Law School. And as if that weren't enough, Bridgit launched her own startup Northwood Space, which aims to build ground satellite stations to help send and receive data from space, becoming CEO of the brand in February 2023. For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Its no mystery why a new Unforgotten case is an eagerly anticipated event. Six seasons in, Masterpieces British crime drama isnt about to mess with a formula thats delivered riveting whodunits and an array of intriguing characters: A body (or parts of one) is found years after someone disposed of it and, over six episodes, cold case cops must determine which of four suspects is responsible. Premiering Sunday, August 24, at 10/9c on PBS, this time human remains are discovered in the wetlands of east London and before police detectives Sunny Khan (Sanjeev Bhaskar) and Jessica James (Sinead Keenan) can catch a killer, they face the arduous task of identifying the victim. Viewers, meanwhile, are introduced to four individuals from different walks of life who have two things in common: a connection to the victim that makes each a suspect and a complex backstory. The intention is always to write characters that are multifaceted, says creator and executive producer Chris Lang. They may have done bad things, but that doesnt mean theyre necessarily bad people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through this quartet London college professor Juliet Cooper (Victoria Hamilton), Afghan immigrant Asif Syed (Elham Ehsas), young autistic man Marty Baines (Maximilian Fairley), and controversial TV commentator Melinda Ricci (MyAnna Buring) Lang, who writes every episode, also explores division within his country. He always has something to say in his scripts, notes Keenan, but he doesnt necessarily shout about it. But casting an autistic actor as Marty is one thing Lang (who has an autistic son) was adamant about, and Fairley, who was new to television, impressed the creative team at his audition. To ensure the actor would feel comfortable, they brought him to the set well before shooting started. We wanted him to know that there was help available if he needed it, Lang says. But Id never seen anyone so comfortable on set. Leanne Balcombe (Georgia Mackenzie), DCI Jess James (Sinead Keenan), DI Sunny Khan (Sanjeev Bhaskar) in MASTERPIECE and Mainstreet Productions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for the detectives, Jess and Sunnys relationship has stabilized after they got off to a rocky start working together last season. Without knowing too much about each others lives, says Bhaskar, theyve built a degree of trust with each other, which allows them to become better partners. And Sunny spends more time with another colleague, pathologist Leanne Balcombe (Georgia Mackenzie). Bhaskar notes that they were the last two people to see Sunnys former partner Cassie before her untimely death two seasons ago. That connects them, he says. We see them build on a connection that is not based on Cassie its based on them as people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although Unforgotten has thrived on consistency, Lang admits he hasnt hesitated to insert the occasional twist. You have to give the audience what they love about the show, but every season I try to find one or two things that we have never done before, he says. We have a motto: When we do a new [season], weve got to make it the same but different. Unforgotten, Season Premiere, Sunday, August 24, 10/9c, PBS (check local listings at pbs.org) Read the latest entertainment news on TV Insider. A Wisconsin woman was convicted in an assassination plot after police say she flew to England, donned a disguise, and tried to shoot a man at point-blank range, all for a long-distance lover she met online. Aimee Betro, 44, was convicted Tuesday on charges including conspiracy to murder and possession of a firearm with intent in Birmingham Crown Court, after trying to carry out a bizarre revenge plot targeting the family of a clothing shop owner in Birmingham, England who had been feuding with her romantic suitor and his family, according to the Crown Prosecution Service in the West Midlands. Only Betro knows what truly motivated her or what she sought to gain from becoming embroiled in a crime that meant she traveled hundreds of miles from Wisconsin to Birmingham to execute an attack on a man she did not know, Specialist Prosecutor Hannah Sidaway, of the Crown Protection Service in the West Midlands, said in a statement after the conviction. The jury clearly agreed this was a planned hit which failed. For more true crime news: "Wonderful Wife" Kills North Carolina Plastic Surgeon Husband After Financial Crimes Are Exposed When Are the Menendez Brothers' Parole Hearings? Here Are All the Details California Woman Mysteriously Vanishes from Cruise Ship During Trip with Ex-Husband What did Aimee Betro do? Betro became an international would-be hitwoman after meeting boyfriend Mohammed Nazir online, according to prosecutors. At some point, Nazir and his father, Mohammed Aslam, recruited her to carry out a planned assassination on a Birmingham clothing shop owner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The assassination plot stemmed from a 2018 dispute between Aslam, Nazir and the store owner inside the shop, which caused damage to the property and injuries to all three men involved, according to a statement from the West Midlands Police. Betro agreed to fly from her home in Wisconsin to England on August 22, 2019 to carry out the plot. Prosecutors said that about two weeks later, on Sept. 7, 2019, she drove to the shop owners South Yardley home in a black Mercedes shed purchased that day, disguised herself in a niqab, which covers the body and face, and tried to shoot the shop owners son at point-blank range as he arrived home that night around 8:10 p.m. The plot was foiled, however, when her gun jammed or malfunctioned and her intended target managed to get back into his car and drive away, clipping the open door of Betro's Mercedes as he fled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is sheer luck that he managed to get away unscathed, Sidaway said. Aimee Betro Leaving Country Aimee Betro makes second shooting attempt at shop owner's home After changing her clothes, Betro returned to the home several hours later in a cab which shed arranged using the fake name Becky Booth. The taxi dropped her near the family home, where CCTV captured her distinctive trousers and toe-capped shoes as she approached the property, prosecutors said in their statement. She fired three shots through the windows two bullets penetrating the bay window and one going through the bedroom window, causing extensive damage to the family home. Then, Betro sent a taunting text message to the shop owner from an unregistered phone that she later discarded, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The text read: Stop playing hide n seek. Youre lucky it jammed. Who is it? Your family or you? Pick one." RELATED: Kentucky Mom Said Her 10-Year-Old Son Was Missing Now She's Charged with Killing Him Aimee Betro, Mohammed Nazir seek revenge on another man Betro then fled England, flying back to the United States on Sept. 9, 2019, authorities said. Nazir soon joined her and the pair attempted to target another one of Nazirs rivals. While in the U.S., Betro sent three packages containing illegal ammunition and firearm components, using a false name, to a man in Derbyshire, a county in the East Midlands of England. Nazir tipped police off about the package and the man was briefly arrested before the revenge plot unraveled, prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Betro was convicted of being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition on the importation of ammunition in connection with that plot. RELATED: Ex-Arkansas State Senator Fatally Stabbed, Her Killer Seen on Surveillance Footage Clutching Bloody Knife Building the case against Aimee Betro Authorities were able to identify Betro as a suspect in the failed hit after poring through surveilance footage, which captured her buying burner phones in Birmingham, repeatedly scoping out the victims house before the attack, approaching the victim with a gun clearly visible in her hand and fleeing in the damaged Mercedes, authorities said. They also used mobile phone data, witness testimony and digital forensics to build the case against her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a unique case which has involved a huge amount of work tracing the movements of Betro from her arrival into the UK, her subsequent failed attempt to shoot a man dead, and her departure from the UK, Detective Chief Inspector Alastair Orencas, of the West Midlands Police Major Crime Unit, said in a statement. Its by luck that her attempt to kill her target failed, thanks to the jamming of her gun. An international manhunt was soon launched to track her down, but Betro fled to Armenia and remained on the run for years. She was arrested in Armenia in July of 2024 and extradited back to the UK to face the charges against her. Shes scheduled to be sentenced for the crimes on Aug. 21, 2025. Nazir was convicted last year for the charges against him, including conspiracy to murder, and was sentenced to 32 years behind bars, prosecutors said. His father, Aslam, was sentenced to 10 years for his role in the failed revenge plot. When Briana Snyder entered her homemade cake in the Kentucky State Fair last year, she had no idea she'd opted for one of the historic events most esteemed and cut-throat culinary categories. The Your Favorite Cake, Any Kind, contest just sounded fun, because the parameters seemed limitless. Unlike other categories calling specifically for a spice, fruit, pound, angel food, bundt, or pumpkin cake, Snyder could create anything she wanted. It was Snyders first time competing at the fair, a step up from a couple of local baking contests shed won in Shelbyville, where shes lived for six years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The native of Charlestown, Ind., grew up baking alongside her mother, but didnt grow up attending the fair. So, seeing her lavender blueberry creation on display in 2024 marked one of just a few trips to the Kentucky State Fair in her lifetime. It felt pretty sweet to see her concoction behind glass as thousands of people passed by, even though her cake didnt crack the contests top three. Since then, Snyder has learned the lore surrounding Your Favorite Cake, Any Kind. She figured out the category is known as the big shebang and earning first, second, or third place equals a big deal. The highly-revered category, one of more than 200 under the culinary umbrella at the fair, has been around for several decades and puts home cooks to the test: Cakes must be layered, completely made from scratch, and a detailed recipe must be provided. Knowing all of this, Snyder went for round two at the 2025 Kentucky State Fair. Briana Snyder's "I like s'mores a latte" cake, center, took first place and the blue ribbon at the 2025 Kentucky State Fair. At left, Rita Wooldridge took second place with her Limoncello cake with lemon curd filling and buttercream frosting. At right, the turtle cake from fourteen-year-old Kendra Jackson took third place in the "Your Favorite Cake" division at the 2025 Kentucky State Fair. More: Here are the past 5 'Your Favorite Cake' winners, recipes from the Kentucky State Fair Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement En route to dropping off her cake earlier this week, Snyder tried not to let any nerves sweat her. She did give the cake a pep talk, saying, Please, dont melt. The mom of four and full-time logistics coordinator heard the Your Favorite Cake winner would be notified by phone, so, on Tuesday, she looked out for the hopeful buzz. While waiting for a call that may or may not come, Snyder told her husband, I know I probably wont win, but what if I do? Wouldnt that be crazy? I was just hoping to get top three and I wanted to see my cake in the case again, Snyder, 39, told the Courier Journal. Thats the only expectation I had. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, her phone lit up. She didnt recognize the number, so she missed the call at first. On the second try, a Kentucky State Fair representative relayed the good news. In response, Snyder started screaming. My husband probably thought I was dying, but I was just excited, she said. Briana Snyder of Shelbyville won the 2025 "Your Favorite Cake, Any Kind," contest at the Kentucky State Fair. More: Why the simple pineapple whip is still a favorite: Your 2025 Kentucky State Fair food guide The excitement still beamed from Snyders upbeat voice when she answered another unfamiliar number from The Courier Journal. Its so wild, she said. Its still disbelief at this point. As someone who mostly bakes for family birthdays and as a hobby, Snyder said she counts the win as affirmation that I am as good as I think. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know my stuff tastes good, she said. But I know this is very stiff competition. As her cakes name suggests, Snyders I Like Smores A Latte" combines chocolate cake, graham cracker crust, marshmallow meringue, and chocolate espresso buttercream to create what judge Janet Johnson called a texture explosion. And, texture is no joke to the judges. For this category, texture makes up 45% of the total criteria, with flavor accounting for 25%. The rest of the pie is left to suitability with 20% and general appearance merely counting for 10%. More: Cheetos corn dog and ostrich burgers: new foods to try the 2025 Kentucky State Fair Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson and fellow judge Liz Buckner, both with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, tasted about 30 cakes duking it out in the Your Favorite Cake, Any Kind category on the morning of Aug. 12. Upon seeing this years field of desserts with ingredients like mango, pistachios, peanut butter, one topped with chocolate horses and another called A Date With A Pineapple, the longtime fair experts worked through some tough competition. "We always know that this particular category is going to be one of the most difficult categories, simply because people are putting their best efforts forward, Johnson said. And there's not a cake in that category that you and I wouldn't enjoy with a lovely meal. But, then you have to get into what makes it more of a superlative cake. With that in mind, they whittled the spread to 10 or 15 cakes, then five or six, then the final three. There were a few more taste tests and recipe readings before crowing the blue ribbon champion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think it boils down to the basic criteria where you have your flavor, texture, appearance, Buckner told the Courier Journal. We can never get away from the basics. Something that catches your eye is part of what you look for, Johnson added. At the end of the day, when you cut into those cakes, you are looking for the flavors and you're looking for textures. Along with Snyders winning cake, those skills could be seen with the second place entry, created by multi-year competitor Rita Woolridge of Shepherdsville. Her Limoncello Cake was decorated beautifully with soft hues of yellow and green swirly florals at the base, against a white backdrop of Italian buttercream frosting. The top shined with two big, blooming tulip-looking flowers that were, of course, edible. And third place went to 14-year-old Kendra Jacksons Turtle Cake, which also employed the use of espresso and cool drizzly designs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: The World's Championship Horse Show at Kentucky State Fair brings top riders to Louisville After hearing about her win, Snyder reminisced about why she usually bakes: To make others happy. Just as an avid gift giver might consult someone's favorite brands, she memorizes favorite flavors for each cake recipient. Its just the effort, thought and care that goes into it, she said. Every cake is a labor of love. Snyder plans to visit the Kentucky State Fair, which runs from Aug. 14-24, this weekend and bring along her husband, kids, and parents. Together, they'll again look for her cake in the case and this time, shell see a blue ribbon next to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its beyond my wildest dreams, she said. And shes already dreaming about entering the contest next year. I make a bunch of cakes, anyway, she said. Whats one more? Reach food and dining reporter Amanda Hancock at ahancock@courier-journal.com. 2025 Kentucky State Fair Your Favorite Cake winner I Like S'Mores A Latte recipe Briana Snyder's "I like s'mores a latte" cake which took the blue ribbon in the "Your Favorite Cake" division at the 2025 Kentucky State Fair. Provided by winner Briana Snyder Cake 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1 cup milk 1/2 cup melted butter 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Graham Cracker Crust Crushed Graham crackers 1/2 cup melted butter Marshmallow Swiss Meringue Buttercream 8 large egg whites 2 1/4 granulated sugar Marshmallow flavored extract 1 1/2 pounds room temperature butter Chocolate Espresso Buttercream 1 pound room temperature butter 1 pound powdered sugar 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Coffee emulsion Chocolate Hot Fudge 2 cups sugar 2 cups heavy cream 2 cups dark cocoa powder 1 cup salted butter Chocolate Espresso Ganache 1 cup milk chocolate chips 1/3 cup heavy cream Coffee emulsion Instructions Graham Cracker Crust Melt the butter in a bowl and then add crushed Graham crackers until you get a dough-like consistency. Divide in half and spread evenly in the bottom of two pans Cake Add flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt to a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Whisk through to combine, or using your paddle attachment, stir through flour mixture until combined well. Add milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla to flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined. Distribute cake batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick or cake tester inserted in the center of the chocolate cake comes out clean. Marshmallow Swiss Meringue Buttercream Combine egg whites and granulated sugar in your mixing bowl Place bowl over pot with 1-inch boiling water (do not let bowl touch the water) and whisk until the temperature of the mixture reaches 160 degrees on a candy thermometer (about 3-5 minutes) Place bowl on mixer and with whisk attachment, beat on high until hard peaks form and the bowl has cooled (approx. 10 minutes) Add in butter 1 Tablespoon at a time Add in marshmallow flavoring a little at a time to taste preference Chocolate Espresso Buttercream With paddle attachment, beat softened butter on high until smooth and white (about 15-20 minutes), scraping the sides half way though to ensure fully smooth Add in powdered sugar and beat on high until fully incorporated Add in cocoa powder and coffee emulsion (to taste) and mix in with spoon until fully incorporated and smooth Chocolate Hot Fudge Combine the sugar, cream, cocoa and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring, until the butter melts and everything is well combined (approx. 2-3 minutes) Transfer to mason jar and store in the refrigerator to cool Chocolate Espresso Ganache Put chocolate chips in a bowl and set to the side Bring heavy cream to boil in small saucepan over high heat Add heavy cream to chocolate chips and let sit for 3 minutes Stir until smooth and then add in coffee emulsion to taste Layer the cake Layer cake with crust, marshmallow icing, chocolate espresso icing, hot fudge. Then top with second cake, do thin crumb layer with chocolate espresso icing, then final layer of marshmallow icing. Drizzle cake with chocolate espresso ganache. Garnish with crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 2025 Kentucky State Fair Your Favorite Cake blue ribbon winner, recipe NEED TO KNOW Hali Oduor and Nathan Mixon opted out of a number of wedding traditions, and tied the knot in a day perfectly catered to them They wed in an outdoor coastal ceremony in Kenya, where they also hosted a collection of special events before and after the ceremony From the bridal look to guest count, the couple kept simplicity, community and love at the forefront Hali Oduor and Nathan Mixons intimate nuptials at Beach Palace in Malindi, Kenya, were perfectly tailored to them. While they chose to forgo several wedding customs it's a decision they say they'd happily make again. "It was important to us that our wedding felt deeply personal and meaningful, something that truly reflected who we are as a couple," the bride and groom tell PEOPLE. "Every choice we made came back to that intention. We wanted the day to feel like us from start to finish, and to tell our story in a way that felt authentic. In the end, that meant choosing to do some things in an unconventional way, and we loved every bit of it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a TikTok that's gained over 7 million views, Oduor listed all the things they'd opted out of, starting with a makeup artist: "because no one knows my face, or how I want to feel, better than me," Oduor wrote. Also regarding her bridal look, Oduor chose a neck scarf and a practical hairstyle rather than a veil to best fit the wedding's coastal setting. The ceremony was held outside, and the aisle was lined with an assortment of white flowers, per Brides. The guests' chairs were arranged in a semi-circle structure to "give the feeling of an embrace with our people, our community, as if they were hugging us throughout the ceremony." Oduor didn't carry a bouquet down the aisle, nor did a wedding party precede her entrance the couple wanted their loved ones to "relax as guests," free from the unnecessary stress that sometimes comes with a big wedding party. They also shared their day with only 35 guests to keep the moment intimate. Stories Matter Hali Oduor on her wedding day Hali Oduor on her wedding day "All of our non-traditional choices were planned," Oduor says. "I chose not to carry a bouquet because I did not want to feel awkward or distracted walking down the aisle. I wanted to be fully in the moment, not worrying about my hands or who I would hand the bouquet to." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She continues: "We also knew from the beginning that we wanted to write handwritten notes to each guest. With such a small wedding, we knew every single person there deeply and uniquely, and it was important to express how much they meant to us and the impact they each had on our lives. We thanked them not only for being part of the weekend but also for their support throughout our lives." 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. Stories Matter Wedding dinner Wedding dinner All those present at the ceremony also blessed the wedding rings. The couple passed the bands around for each guest to hold and "speak a blessing over them," and thus their union "felt covered by so much love." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf For the post-wedding festivities, Oduor wore her mother's wedding dress one she could dance in, though she kept her neck scarf from her ceremony look. Stories Matter Guests bless the wedding rings Guests bless the wedding rings The couple shared a meal with their guests at one long table together, and everyone in attendance received a handwritten thank-you, rather than a wedding favor, which Oduor saw as much more meaningful. They also skipped the wedding cake, which "no one noticed." Though many couples head straight to the honeymoon after the wedding concludes, Oduor and Mixon continued the festivities with their guests so they could "spend more time with the people who showed up" for them. Stories Matter Guests reading handwritten notes from Hali Oduor and Nathan Mixon Guests reading handwritten notes from Hali Oduor and Nathan Mixon "I loved that we stayed true to ourselves in every decision," Oduor says. "The guest count felt perfect, even though we sometimes felt pressure to have a bigger wedding and extend more invitations. Having only the people who mattered most created a once-in-a-lifetime energy I will never forget. We will probably never have that exact group of people in one place again, which made it even more special." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bride adds: "Traditions can be beautiful, but they are not mandatory. The most magical moments come when you follow what feels right for you. If there is one day in your life that should feel entirely like you, it is your wedding." Read the original article on People Large swathes of Europe have been ablaze in the last week, as wildfires engulf some of the most popular summer tourist hotspots. Thousands of people in Spain, France, Portugal and the Balkans have been forced to evacuate their homes this week, as deadly wildfires have raged through Southern Europe. One man has died in Madrid when a fire engulfed 1,000 hectares of land in one blaze. A heatwave has gripped parts of Europe and sent temperatures soaring over 40C in southern France and Spain, leading to experts triggering top-level weather alerts and forcing evacuations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It follows deadly blazes that have ravaged Europe since late June , with further wildfires also broke out in London on Monday. "Don't be fooled this isn't 'normal, or just summer.' It's not normal, it's a nightmare," Serge Zaka, an agricultural climatologist, told broadcaster BFMTV in France. The extreme heat comes amidst what is predicted to be the second or third-hottest year on record, according to Carbon Brief. And temperatures may reach above 44C in parts of Europe this week, according to forecasters. If youve made plans to travel to one of these perennially popular holiday destinations and think your trip might be affected, heres an overview of the effects of the wildfires in each country. Spain A fire in Tres Cantos, near Madrid, has led over 3,7000 people to evacuate from 16 municipalities, amidst reports of two human and 168 animal deaths. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A man, who suffered burns to 98 per cent of his body, died after being airlifted to La Paz hospital, according to The Community of Madrid. A man, who suffered burns to 98 per cent of his body, died after being airlifted to La Paz hospital in Spain (REUTERS) Fires are reported in the north-western region of Castilla y Leon, including one that caused damage to a Unesco world heritage-listed Roman-era mining site at Les Medulas. The fire burned through 3,000 hectares of land in Ourense province. In the southern town of Tarifa, 2,000 people were evacuated due to a fire. The fire has now been brought under control overnight. Regional authorities confirmed on Tuesday that overnight conditions allowed crews to bring the blaze in the Tres Cantos area under control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madrid-Barajas airport, the closest to the blaze, is still operating but if you are travelling nearby, you should still be prepared for delayed as travel within the region may be impacted in the aftermath. Trains between north-western Galicia and Madrid are still halted, according to the countrys rail operator. Portugal Fires are still raging in Portugals Trancoso municipality, with over 700 firefighters working to put out the flames northeast of Lisbon. "We are being cooked alive, this cannot continue," said Alexandre Favaios, a mayor in Portugal. Flights to Francisco Sa Carneiro airport in Porto, the closest to the fire, have not been impacted. France On Monday, the French national weather authority, Meteo-France, put 12 departments on red alert, the nations highest heat warning, which has only been issued eight times since it was introduced in 2004. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It follows a fire in the Aude region last week, which burned 4,000 acres. Officials report that the fire is under control but may not be fully extinguished for weeks. Flights were still operating to Carcassonne, the nearest airport to Aude. Albania Wildfires in Albania have killed an elderly man and injured eight others. On Tuesday, Albanian Defense Minister Pirro Vengu said that 37 forest fires had been reported nationwide, with 30 still burning. Evacuations have taken place in villages in the provinces of Elbasan, Vlora and Berat. No airport closures have been reported. A firefighter works to extinguish a fire from an building during a wildfire, in Sichaina near Patras, Greece, August 13, 2025. REUTERS/Louiza Vradi (REUTERS) Greece Over 152 new fires broke out in Greece yesterday, with evacuations in dozens of villages, as intense drought and strong winds intensified the flames. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of people have been evacuated from the touristy islands of Chios and Zakynthos. Flames also swept into Patras, in the western Peloponnese, destroying homes, businesses and vehicles. Three fire fronts of over 15km are currently uncontained in Zante. Greek authorities are also warning of an elevated fire danger in several further regions as of Tuesday (August 19). Several regions across the country have been placed under Category 3 (high danger) on the official Fire Risk Map released by the General Secretariat for Civil Protection. The areas under increased risk are Attica, Thessaloniki, Boeotia, Euboea, Argolis, Corinthia, Achaia, Messinia, Aetolia-Acarnania, Preveza, Arta, Evros, Halkidiki, Mount Athos, the Dodecanese, Crete (Heraklion and Lasithi), as well as the islands of Lesvos, Chios, Psara, Samos, Ikaria, Thasos, the Sporades, and parts of the Ionian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Today, it will be another very difficult day, as the wildfire risk for most of the country's regions will be very high," Vassilis Vathrakogiannis, the fire brigade spokesman, said. At least 13 firefighters have been treated with injuries. Rescue boats have been evacuating people trapped on Chios. At present, flights into Greek airports all seem to be operating, with no cancellations because of the wildfires. Montenegro Wildfires near Gornja Vrbica, Podgorica, were contained on Tuesday, preventing flames from reaching a church and cemetery, according to local reports. However, a soldier died and another was seriously injured when their water tanker overturned as they fought flames in the hills of the north of the capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Families have been evacuated from a region north of the capital, as army units attempted to protect the ruins of the ancient city of Duklja. Emergency official Nikola Bojanovic said the situation was catastrophic. Authorities told residents to save drinking water. At present, no flight cancellations related to the fires have been reported. Turkey Hundreds of residents have also been evacuated in Turkey, due to a fire in the north-western province of Canakkale. Holiday homes and a university campus have also been evacuated. No flight cancellations have been reported as yet, but authorities will make an announcement should that change. Bulgaria 159 new fires were reported in Bulgaria yesterday, according to local reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire has returned to a low-intensity state and is not expected to spread further, but it has caused severe damage in Pirin. The scale of the loss is immeasurable. Behind us is an apocalyptic scene, a disaster we have been fighting for 18 days. The people here have not seen fires like this in recent years, Pirin National Park Director Rosen Banenski, told Novinite. The Foreign Office doesn't advise against travelling to Bulgaria because of the fires, but it does say there is "danger of large-scale and quick-spreading fires". At present no flight delays or cancellations are reported. One of the most well-known hotels in Rhode Island is getting some national recognition. USA TODAY's 10BEST Readers' Choice Awards named a Rhode Island hotel with a stunning ocean view as one of the best bouqitue hotels in the U.S. The annual rankings highlight the best in travel, food and lifestyle, and winners are chosen by a public voting poll after being nominated by industry experts. In the 2025 hotel awards, ranking destination resorts, bed-and-breakfasts, luxury hotel brands and more across the country, Castle Hill Inn placed seventh in the best boutique hotel category. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know when planning your visit to get drinks on the lawn at the award-winning resort. Castle Hill Inn ranks No. 7 Castle Hill Inn at 590 Ocean Drive in Newport made a new hotel guide earning two Michelin Keys. This sophisticated inn brings personalized, world-class service to beautiful seaside rooms, with options ranging from beach cottages on the shoreline to themed rooms overlooking the Narragansett Bay from the historic Agassiz Mansion. Across Castle Hill's 40 acres, guests can enjoy guided walking tours, fishing demonstrations, bonfire s'mores, morning beach yoga and The Retreat, the hotel's all-natural boutique spa. Additionally, Castle Hill has two fine dining restaurants and two bars, boasting an outstanding wine list along with their locally-sourced cuisine. Newport hotels: New Bellevue Avenue luxury hotel to break ground by end of year. What to know. How to stay at Castle Hill Inn The view from the lawn chairs at Castle Hill Inn in Newport include boats sailing by. All bookings for Castle Hill Inn can be made online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inn is located at 590 Ocean Dr. in Newport. Travel through Newport: No car? No problem. These options will get you around Newport What other hotels made the list? Here is USA TODAY's full ranking of the 10 best boutique hotels in the country: Bottleworks Hotel Indianapolis, IN The Graylyn Estate Winston-Salem, NC Staypineapple Chicago Chicago, IL Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa Jackson, WY Villa Royale Palm Springs, CA Hotel Trundle Columbia, SC Castle Hill Inn Newport, RI The Inn at Zaca Creek Buellton, CA Guild House Hotel Philadelphia, PA Wentworth Mansion Charleston, SC This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: USA TODAY names RI's Castle Hill Inn in Newport a top boutique hotel I was just steps into the redwood forest when my guide, Ty Kun, began filling his wicker basket with fiddleheads. Then he spotted a patch of pea-green miners lettuce, which looks like a mini lily pad, and plucked a few leaves. Devour the whole thing, he said, handing it to me. Tastes like spinach! No Taste Like Home A salad made with ingredients found on an excursion with No Taste Like Home, in North Carolina. A salad made with ingredients found on an excursion with No Taste Like Home, in North Carolina. We were in northern Sonoma County, California, spending a few hours exploring the woods and tide pools in search of wild edibles. The excursion, which Sonoma County Tourism started offering earlier this year, would end at Timber Cove Resort, where our finds would be turned into hyperlocal dishes: morels stuffed with wild onions and lemonade flavored with the tart, heart-shaped leaves of redwood sorrel. Within the Wild Porcini hunting near Tutka Bay Lodge. Porcini hunting near Tutka Bay Lodge. While the Taste of Coastal Foraging tour is new, the concept is as old as humankind. Lately the ancient practice is having a renaissance, fueled not only by an interest in local flavors but also by an increased desire among travelers to get outdoors. Thats prompted tourism organizations like Sonomas, as well as high-end hotels and cruise lines, to craft new programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are desperate to get outside and connect to nature, says Natasha Lloyd, the in-house forager at the Fife Arms, a hotel near Scotlands Balmoral Castle. She guides guests on foraging walks through areas untouched by farming on the outskirts of the village of Braemar. Its a beautifully pristine environment, Lloyd explains. There are probably mushrooms we havent even discovered yet. Not that foraging is limited to biodiversity hot spots like the Scottish Highlands or the California coast. Steve Brill has led foraging expeditions in New Yorks Central Park since the early 1980s; in the Chicago area, forager Dave Odd leads what he calls Eat the Neighborhood tours that spotlight dozens of edible and medicinal plants. The whole point is to show people how much stuff is out there, even in an urban setting, Odd says. Cruise lines have recently added foraging to their shore-excursion lineups. Windstar Cruises, for example, will begin offering truffle hunting in Tuscany in 2026 as an option for guests stopping in Livorno. Silversea can arrange forages in rural Puglia in the company of experts who can point out prime pickings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every place has its different, unique foods, so foraging is literally giving you a taste of the place, explains Alan Muskat, the founder of No Taste Like Home. His expertise is in and around Asheville, North Carolina, where he leads three-hour explorations in search of mushrooms, berries, and edible greens. Participants can then take the pickings to their choice of several partner restaurants to be prepared. You dont know what youre going to find, Muskat says. And that makes it exciting. Pick Your passion Seaweed in California Commercial fisherman turned psychotherapist Spencer Marley, of Marley Family Seaweeds, sold the stuff at farmers markets before starting seaside tours on the Central Coast. Herbs in Sweden Eva Gunnare, of Essense of Lapland, leads what she calls flavor walks in Swedish Lapland, sharing tastes gleaned from the region and stories of the Indigenous Sami culture. Mushrooms in Wisconsin Northern Mushroom Tours connects mycologists with enthusiasts to hunt for chanterelles, black trumpets, and other fungi in the states northwest. Wild plants in Australia Based near Hobart, Tasmania, Sirocco South arranges small-group walks to track down oysters and wild plants, followed by a six-course alfresco lunch made, in part, from whats foraged. Berries in Alaska Tutka Bay Lodge, on the Kenai Peninsula, can arrange chef-led walks in search of ingredients such as blueberries, rose hips, and hedgehog mushrooms. Mushrooms in Chile Based on the temperate central coast of Chile, not far from Santiago, Pichilemu Silvestre takes guests through wetlands and forests to hunt for wild mushrooms and other edible plants. Remedies in Austria Near Salzburg, Austria, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl has an in-house herbalist who hosts countryside walks focused on medicinal botanicals, including elderberry and wild garlic. A version of this story appeared in the September 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "Find Dining." Read the original article on Travel & Leisure Pit Bull Saved From Horrible Circumstances Now Helps Other Dogs Thrive originally appeared on Parade Pets. Niall Harbison continues to save countless dogs through his Thailand animal rescue organization, Happy Doggo. He considers the many street dogs he rescues as family, and every once in a while comes across a special case where he officially adopts the pup. Hank the Pit Bull joined Harbison in more ways than one. Now a full-fledged member of Harbison's family, Hank has also taken on the role of therapy dog for other fur babies in need. "We found him just in time," the Instagram video's onscreen text read as Hank walked through a cluttered area of the jungle. The poor pup had a gaping wound filled with maggots and was in severe pain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harbison tracked down Hank's previous owners who told him, "Don't bring him back, we're done with him." The animal advocate brought the precious Pittie to the Happy Doggo sanctuary, where he was given medical treatment as well as plenty of love and affection. The video shared scenes of Hank's recovery, where he heals enough to play and wag his tail nonstop. Harbison adopted the pooch, giving Hank a forever home with him at the rescue. Related: Moment Foster Pit Bull Realizes It's Safe to Come Inside on Her Own Is Full of Beauty Hank Always Lends a Paw Hank is now "living his best life in Thailand", yet also makes plenty of time to support his fellow fur babies as a "therapy dog". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Now Hank watches over our very sick female dogs and is a mascot who represents everything we do here at Happy Doggo," the caption revealed as Hank stood along side several dogs in recovery. "A true gentle giant. We all love you Hank," the video concluded as clips showed Hank snuggling in his dog bed and gazing out over the mountains while proudly wearing his monogrammed bandana. The Pit Bull has clearly found his calling and is sharing his heart of gold with others who need support. Hank understands their pain and is obviously committed to being with his fellow pooches every step of the way. Learn more about Happy Doggo or make a donation by visiting their website or social media accounts on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SIGN UP to get pawsitivity delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends Pit Bull Saved From Horrible Circumstances Now Helps Other Dogs Thrive first appeared on Parade Pets on Aug 14, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. More than 400 people are suspected to have died due to extreme heat in the Phoenix area so far this year. Temperatures have hit over 110 degrees everyday so far this month in Maricopa County, Arizona, save for one day, including an all-time monthly high of 118. At least three daily records have been broken in August as well. So far this year, the Maricopa County medical examiners office has confirmed 35 heat deaths, 17 of which were directly caused by extreme heat, and 18 cases in which heat contributed to the death. An additional 369 are suspected to have died from heat-related causes, but those deaths remain under investigation per the countys heat surveillance dashboard. With this many cases still under investigation and it only being mid-August, theres a lot that could still happen, Dr Nick Staab, Maricopa Countys chief medical officer, told KJZZ, a Phoenix area radio station. Heat-related deaths have drastically increased over the past decade in Maricopa County. The county saw 645 heat-related deaths in 2023 compared to 61 in 2014. County officials confirmed 602 heat-related deaths in 2024. HURRICANE SEASON STARTS JUNE 1. HERES WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT CUTS TO WEATHER AGENCIES The 2025 figures are about 30% lower than this time last year. Temperatures this summer have been cooler than last year, but this summer is still expected to be one of the hottest recorded for the Phoenix-area. Culinary experiences are often the highlight of a holiday. Were thinking of Sevilles atmospheric tapas bars, sun-soaked (and cat-filled) Greek island tavernas and aperitivo hour in Milan. But they can also serve up the lowest of lowlights; gut-churning moments that linger in the memory for a lifetime. Here, seven of our well-travelled writers reveal the worst meal theyve ever eaten abroad. I was tricked into eating dog Living in a small Chinese city in my early 20s, I ate all manner of excellent foods: steaming hand-pulled noodles; five-spice smothered meat skewers; thick hotpots; piles of morning glory spiked through with chillies and black sauce. I would eat anything put in front of me with just one exception: dog meat. Gemma Knight-Gilani was tricked into eating dog meat by her friends A traditional winter delicacy, in the colder months youd often see on a long table, alongside other huge plates of raw fare from which customers could pick a dish of meat with, frequently, the front paws laid across its edge as proof. I am a dog lover at the time, I even had a dog whose breed hailed from Tibet. There was no way I was going to feast on one of his or any dogs relatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My Chinese friends found this comical: you eat every other animal, theyd say (and I had); why not this one? So one evening, as we gathered around a big communal table, they conspired. Beer and baijiu flowed, the huge glass lazy Susan spun, and finally, without realising, I ended up picking at an unfamiliar meat. A howl of laughter erupted its dog! You ate dog!. Wary not to cause offence, I shook my head and laughed along but the chewy, beef-ish meat in my mouth tasted like ashes, and Ive never really forgiven myself. Gemma Knight-Gilani It had the aroma of an overflowing urinal I like to think Ive eaten pretty much everything that walks, crawls, slithers or even just hangs there harmlessly in the ocean bothering nobody. (The latter was whale blubber, in Greenland so glutinously, gelatinously fatty that I may have expended more calories trying to gnaw it than I gained digesting it; the former was Foraged Cornish Ants in, of all places, posh Surrey country-house hotel Beaverbrook.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only one dish has ever defeated me, in fact: hakarl, the Icelandic delicacy (because vomitacy is not a word) made from poisonous shark buried in sand until it starts to putrefy. Its high urea content gives it an aroma almost exactly like that of an overflowing urinal, and it tastes every bit as good as it smells. Worse still is the texture: smooth but chewy, so that as you gag and you will gag youre not sure if its in your mouth on the way down or the way back up. Its ok, said the waiter, collecting my barely-touched plate, not even Icelanders actually eat it. Ed Grenby The giant carcass was covered in a thick layer of grey jelly which quivered as the elderly restaurant owner shuffled it over As soon as I saw the chicken, I knew Id made a terrible mistake. It lay sprawled on a platter, legs and wings akimbo, its giant carcass covered in a thick layer of grey jelly which quivered as the elderly restaurant owner shuffled it over. There was no doubt it was for us: my then-boyfriend and I were the only two diners, watched over by a stern official from the Taiwan tourist board, our minder for the entire stay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were bog-eyed from the 14-hour flight, and when Id spotted braised chicken on the menu it had sounded so comforting amid this bizarre scenario nothing like the fridge-cold, ashen hunk of flesh and fat before me. Dining in foreign countries can pose a variety of risks to the unknowing traveller - getty The owner and official lingered at the tableside, and I forced a weak smile. But by the time Id forced down two mouthfuls, I was in the danger zone. There was no way I could manage another, let alone finish the beast. I just cant, I murmured to my boyfriend. Spotting my pallor, he wordlessly slid the platter to his side of the table and started to work, giving our companions a thumbs-up for good measure. I knew at that moment that he would be the man Id marry and he was. You can keep your diamonds, your roses: the man ate the chicken for me. It was so horrendous, that not even the chicken anus skewer I mistakenly tried a few days later eclipsed it but thats another story... Hazel Plush I came home a stone lighter Everyone we knew whod gone to Cuba had a culinary horror story to tell, so we played it safe at a reassuringly expensive rooftop restaurant on our first night in Havana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were young lovers and the setting was suitably romantic. Candles flickered in the Caribbean breeze as the old town twinkled below us and salsa drifted from a nearby club. A perfect evening, and then the food arrived. Gavin Haines in Cuba in 2008 On first inspection, my chicken looked if anything carcinogenic, its charred skin evoking memories of 1980s barbecues. Inside, though, it was all blood and raw flesh, a red sea of salmonella, prompting the inevitable a good vet joke. Only getting decent food in Cuba is no laughing matter. Having initially claimed that the chicken was cooked, the waiter agreed to source a replacement, which turned out to be the same raw piece of mutilated meat, just flipped over. We left hungry, with no apology, paying only for booze. Id dodged a bullet, but it was an omen. Days later I was floored by food poisoning so violent it made me nostalgic for Delhi belly. I came home a stone lighter with a culinary horror story of my own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gavin Haines We chomped for what seemed like hours attempting to get through the gristle without retching Okinawa remains one of my favourite places in the world. This is the island that opened my eyes to emoji-shaped fireworks, lilting sanshin music and Japans incredible underwater world. Being adventurous about food meant I indulged in the local crispy pigs ears and purple potato ice cream too and both were delicious. But everyone has a line. And mine was firmly crossed when I found myself facing a plate of giant sea snails, each bigger than my fist and served in its shell, without a whiff of garlic or butter to mask its gelatinous ooze. These molluscs (also known as Turban Shells) were the star turn in a meal put on by the tourist board for visiting journalists, all of whom were far too polite to decline the dish. So on we chomped, for what seemed like several hours, attempting to get through the gristle without retching over each other. Thank goodness for the Asahi, which not only helped wash them down but also rendered me drunker with every mouthful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amanda Hyde In less time than it takes to tell, there was more of me outside than in Ive had more run-ins with street food stands than youll care to read about. Worst of all followed the eating of a chicken tamale in a small town outside Orizaba in Mexico. I was seeking traces of my Lancastrian grandfather, whod had a textile business there decades before. And I was snacking because Id lost much of my money. An exuberant pickpocket had squeezed in next to me on the bus, chatted gaily and got off with my cash. Initially tasty, the tamale counterattacked a couple of hours later, as I wandered the town. I hadnt booked a hotel, so had no room to return to. There was, though, a park nearby with, thank the Lord, tall, shielding tropical vegetation. In less time than it takes to tell, there was more of me outside than in. A chicken tamale in Mexico left Anthony Peregrine violently ill - hayaship/iStockphoto I collapsed on a park bench. A young shoe shine boy approached. Could he shine my shoes? No, I said, and if he didnt move briskly, hed have more than shoes to clean. Youre unwell, he said. I nodded, and dashed once more for the bushes. Follow me, he said. I staggered off behind him. Some minutes later we arrived at a white-washed, one-storey house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The young man went in and returned with his mother, Maria. She took me into a tiny bedroom at the back where I stayed for three days and nights, attended by Maria with bottled water and towels. As soon as I could move, I left. Maria, naturally, would take no money. She gave me to understand that looking after people was what women like her did. I left what cash I had left at the local grocery store, that Marias next shop might be subsidised. And I wonder: if a random, exploding Mexican turned up at my house, would I be so unquestioningly generous? I hope so, I really do. Anthony Peregrine We dined in silence on rubbery gizzards Over the years, Ive had disgusting dinners across the world from fried mopane worms in Namibia to confit of cows udder at a gourmet restaurant in Bogota. Top of the gut-wrenching charts, however, was a Madagascan Christmas meal at a hostel in the highlands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boiled more brutally than a Tudor-era traitor, my chicken had long passed on to several next lives. Rubbery gizzards were washed down with burned rice tea a fancy name for spent water used to soak old iron pots. Dining in silence, we listened to rusty church bells peel as beetles sizzled to death in blinding strip lights overhead. Sarah Marshall But food is only 50 per cent of a memorable dining experience. That night, my partner and I stayed in separate single-sex dorms wondering who might be first to barricade the loo. While I slept soundly, he was kept up by an elderly traveller farting and ranting about spies from MI5. The following morning, the old man shrugged off his unsociable behaviour, retorting: It must have been something I ate. Sarah Marshall 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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) One person is dead and another is hurt after a shooting in southeast Oklahoma City. It happened just after 8 a.m. on Thursday, a few blocks away from Wheeler Middle School. Oklahoma City Police were called to the scene near Southeast 21st Street and Central Avenue. They said shots came from outside of a home. When officers arrived, they found two people who had been hit by gunfire, sadly, one deceased, said MSGT. Gary Knight, OKCPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another person was shot and rushed to the hospital. LOCAL NEWS: Enid PD arrest Midwest City man on multiple felony complaints In the neighborhood, the road was blocked off as police launched their investigation Thursday morning. Currently, its unclear what happened, so officers are hoping someone will come forward with answers. We certainly want the publics help on this one because it just happened. Investigators are just arriving so anyone with information needs to call the homicide tip line, said Knight. The condition of the person shot is not clear at this time. No one is in custody. If you have any information, please call the homicide tip line at 405-297-1200. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. NEED TO KNOW One dog is dead after a break-in at an animal shelter in Texas An individual broke into Austins Pets Alives Town Lake Animal Center and "released the majority of the dogs from their kennels," the shelter said in a statement At least five dogs were injured in the incident One dog is dead after a break-in at an animal shelter in Texas. An individual broke into Austins Pets Alives Town Lake Animal Center in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, Aug. 14, and "released the majority of the dogs from their kennels," according to a statement from the organization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, "at least five dogs sustained injuries and one tragically passed away," APA said. Austin Pets Alive Break-in at Austin Pets Alive Break-in at Austin Pets Alive The injured dogs are in stable condition and are being treated by a veterinarian. The incident occurred while the animal shelter was closed overnight. APA has overnight security at the facility. However, the security guard was unable to control the dogs after they were let loose, the shelter added. The facility also houses cats, but said all of its felines "are safe and unharmed." Several dogs said to be missing after the incident have all been safely located by staff and volunteers. The shelter said the dogs are "terrified after the ordeal." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An Austin Police Department (APD) case report provided by APA stated that the incident occurred around 1:20 a.m. local time. Austin Pets Alive Found dogs after break-in at Austin Pets Alive Found dogs after break-in at Austin Pets Alive When staff members arrived at the facility, they "secured the animals" and "returned them to their respective enclosures," according to the case report. The security guard was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, police said. The shelter said they were not notified of the incident until around 6 a.m. local time. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human-interest stories. "This is an incredibly difficult morning for our team. The dog that passed was surrounded by people who loved him, and we will be honoring his life in a separate internal announcement," APA president and CEO Dr. Ellen Jefferson said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Currently, our priority is the safety of our dogs and cats, as well as the well-being of our staff. We are working to relocate terrified dogs to foster homes as quickly as possible, where they can recover," she added. This case remains under investigation. Read the original article on People DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A person is dead after a shooting Wednesday night. Several Dayton police officers were on scene investigating. According to Montgomery County Regional Dispatch, a shooting was reported around 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 13. Police responded to Lombard Avenue between First and Second streets. Dispatchers received a 911 call that said a man had been shot. 23-year-old dead after shooting on Valerie Arms Drive Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon arrival, officers located the man with several gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital in life-threatening condition. The Montgomery County Coroners Office later confirmed to 2 NEWS that the man died. According to the Dayton Police Department, the man was 48 years old. The Montgomery County Coroners Office identified him as Joseph Brandenburg. Detectives were called to investigate and gather evidence. An alleged suspect was taken into custody and questioned. Detectives also recovered alleged evidence including hand guns and casings. The DPDs Homicide Unit is investigating further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A 17-year-old is dead after being shot in a South Memphis neighborhood overnight, according to the Memphis Police Department. MPD says they were called to a home in the 1600 block of South Lauderdale Street regarding a shooting around 12:36 a.m. The minor was found at the scene suffering from injuries. He was then taken to Regional One Hospital in critical condition, where he was later pronounced dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See more breaking news, local news and weather from WREG.com for Memphis and the Mid-South. Sign up for WREG newsletters and have the latest top stories sent right to your inbox. Four people have been detained, police say. If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. WEST HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) One person was hurt after officials say shots were reportedly fired in West Hazleton on Wednesday night. The Luzerne County Communications Center says officers were called to the unit block of North Warren Street just after 6:00 p.m. for reports of shots fired in the area. Man charged with mass casualty threat to Little League World Series Officials say one person was taken to the hospital; the severity of their injuries is unknown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear if anyone was arrested during 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 28/22 News. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A man is dead after a shooting on Valerie Arms Drive Wednesday night. 1 dead after shooting in east Dayton According to the Montgomery County Regional Dispatch Center, the shooting occurred around 11:22 p.m., sending one person to the hospital. The Dayton Police Department confirmed Thursday that the man, 23, succumbed to his injuries. He was identified as Deelaquan Smith according to the Montgomery County Coroners Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DPDs Homicide Unit is continuing to investigate the incident. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. A recent WalletHub study ranked every state from the best to the worst to live in. The study considered factors such as education, healthcare, and quality of life. New Mexico ranked last, with Arkansas and Louisiana close behind. In America, not all states are created equal. If you're thinking of relocating, looking at factors like education, the local economy, and overall quality of life could make or break your decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A new WalletHub study ranks all 50 states from best to worst places to live, using what it calls "key indicators of livability," which include housing costs, quality of public education and healthcare, and quality of life. These were based on factors such as homeownership rate, unemployment rate, high school graduation rate, life expectancy, and average hours worked per week. The study used data collected from the US Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Council for Community and Economic Research, among other sources. "When deciding on a place to move, you should first consider financial factors like the cost of living, housing prices and job availability," WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo said in the report. "Many states have strong economies, though, so you should also consider a wide variety of other factors, such as how where you live will impact your health and safety, and whether you will have adequate access to activities that you enjoy." Here are the 10 lowest-ranked US states to live in in 2025, according to WalletHub. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 10. Alabama Alabama has the third-lowest life expectancy in the US. Cavan-Images/Shutterstock Although Alabama ranked first on the study's affordability index, which considers factors like homeownership rate and annual property taxes, the state ranked poorly for its economy and its education and health. In the education-and-health index, which looks at factors like life expectancy and the share of the population aged 25 and older with a high school or higher education degree, the state ranked fifth worst. Earlier this year, the state was ranked 50th in the US for public school education in a World Population Review study. Adding to the state's cons list: It was also ranked as having the ninth worst economy, which factored in markers like unemployment and poverty rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 9. West Virginia West Virginia was ranked as the second most affordable US state. Mihai_Andritoiu/Shutterstock West Virginia had the highest homeownership rate in the WalletHub study, which contributed to its ranking as the second most affordable US state overall. It also had the fifth lowest crime rate in the study. But the state ranked poorly in education and health and quality of life WalletHub reported that, among all states, it had the fourth highest percentage of its population living in poverty. 8. Oklahoma Oklahoma City, OK located in Oklahoma County Sean Pavone/Getty Images/iStockphoto Oklahoma was ranked as the seventh worst state in WalletHub's education-and-health index. When looking at the population of insured residents in each state, Oklahoma had the second lowest percentage of insured people, behind only Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oklahoma also came 49th out of 50 states on public school resources and safety in the World Population Review study. 7. South Carolina South Carolina was ranked the fifth least safe US state in the WalletHub study. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock South Carolina was ranked within the top 10 most affordable states, but that wasn't enough to make up for its low rankings in other categories. It was ranked the fifth unsafest state in the US, according to the WalletHub study, and it was within the 10 worst states in the education-and-health index. 6. Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada. Getty Images Nevada's unfavorable ranking is at least partly due to the state's unaffordable housing, which contributes to it having the third lowest homeownership rate and third highest housing cost in the study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state's economy was also ranked as the seventh worst in the country, and the state is in the top 10 unsafest states in the US. 5. Alaska Anchorage, Alaska. Bruce Yuanyue Bi/Getty Images Alaska, which was recently ranked as America's worst state for business by CNBC, was ranked by WalletHub as the worst state for quality of life and income growth. The WalletHub study also found that the state had the lowest rate of restaurants per capita and that its residents worked the highest number of hours a week when compared to all states. Despite this, the state came fourth in WalletHub's economy ranking. 4. Mississippi Jackson, Mississippi. Paul Brady Photography/Shutterstock Despite being ranked as the eighth most affordable US state, Mississippi was found to have the second lowest quality of life out of every US state, and its economy ranking fell within the bottom 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People in the state work the fourth highest number of hours weekly out of every US state. Mississippi also has the fifth lowest percentage of insured population. Additionally, its residents have the lowest average credit score in the country, according to recent Experian data, and have the highest percentage of its population living in poverty. The state also has the third lowest percentage of population age 25 and older with a high school diploma or higher. 3. Arkansas Fayetteville, Arkansas. Michael Warren/Getty Images Having the third worst quality of life out of every US state, Arkansas was also found to be the sixth unsafest, and it ranked within the bottom 10 for education, health, and economy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2. Louisiana Louisiana was ranked as the worst US state to live in last year. Sean Pavone/Shutterstock Found to have the worst economy out of every US state by the WalletHub study, Louisiana ranks as the second worst state when it comes to education and health, as well as percentage of population living in poverty. The state, which was ranked as the worst US state to live in last year, also has the third highest crime rate and its residents work the highest number of hours weekly, WalletHub reported. 1. New Mexico Albuquerque, New Mexico Daniel A. Leifheit/Getty Images Ranked as the worst US state to live in in 2025, New Mexico, which had the highest crime rate of any US state, was ranked as the second unsafest. It also has the third worst education-and-health ranking and the third highest share of its population living in poverty. The state was also found to have the worst public K-12 school performance out of every US state by the World Population Review study. Read the original article on Business Insider A woman who says she was sexually abused in foster care decades ago is advocating for the same legislation that would give clergy sex abuse victims a two-year window to file civil lawsuits. That legislation has been tied up in Harrisburg for years now. But there is renewed hope after it passed the House in June. Chief Investigator Rick Earle discovered its not just having an impact on victims of clergy sex abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earle found out its also impacting victims of other sex abuse cases where the statute of limitations had expired, including a disturbing case we first told you about four years ago. Earle: This was a system that was supposed to protect you? Carlina Freeman: Supposed to. Its been more than three decades since Carlina Freeman says she was sexually abused by her foster father, and gave birth to a child. Freeman: Just knowing that the people that put me in a place for people to love and take care for me. You didnt do it. You let them, you just let them go. Earle: The system failed you? Freeman: The system let me go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> A failure of the entire system: charges dropped against one suspect in 30-year-old case 11 Investigates first learned about the shocking allegations four years ago when we interviewed Freeman about the unsolved murder of her sister. After hearing her heartbreaking story, Earle reached out to Allegheny County police and they launched an investigation. They eventually charged Freemans foster father, Carl Gilbert, with rape. PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Target 11 Exclusive: Man accused of raping foster child in Pittsburgh facing similar charges in Ohio They also accused Gilberts wife at the time of sexual abuse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gilbert was now living in Maine. His ex-wife was in Ohio. They were arrested and booked into the Allegheny County jail. But Judge Bruce Beemer ruled the statute of limitations had expired and dismissed the charges. Beemer, in his ruling, weighed in on the case, calling it an appalling lack of oversight by the very agencies in charge of protecting against abuse. PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Judge rules statute of limitations had expired in foster rape case uncovered by Target 11 Freeman said she initially lied about her pregnancy, but later told her Allegheny County caseworker. PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Target 11: Emotional testimony in court from victim allegedly sexually abused by foster parent Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said nothing was ever done about it. Even after a court-ordered DNA test several years later confirmed Gilbert was the father, he never faced any charges. CYF, over the years, has declined to comment on this case, and to this day, its unclear why the agency and the courts did nothing. Earle: You believe CYF (Office of Children, Youth and Families) failed you and should be held accountable? Freeman: They failed. Yes, they failed me and they should be held accountable. Freeman is now hoping the same legislation that would give victims of clergy sex abuse a two-year window to file civil lawsuits will ultimately pave the way for her to file a lawsuit against Allegheny County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The processes and procedures failed Carlina. I have never represented anyone as brave as Carlina, and for her to come forward and make sure a voice is heard, and for not just herself, a private matter, but for the masses, says a lot about her character, said Phil DiLucente, Freemans attorney. DiLucente is urging lawmakers to take action. Legislation that would call for a constitutional amendment that would allow voters to decide passed the House, but the Republican-controlled Senate has said they wont bring it to a vote, unless its tied to voter identification, a move Democrats oppose. DiLucente is urging lawmakers to put aside their differences for the sake of victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Im asking is the same courage that shes showing, Im asking our politicians that we vote you into office, to be as brave as Carlina Freeman, said DiLucente. I just need somebody to listen. I just need somebody to listen because I never know when my last days going to come, said Freeman. Earle reached out to the Allegheny County Department of Human Services, which oversees CYF, again today and the agency sent this response: Thanks for reaching out. Due to confidentiality laws, we cannot discuss or confirm details of any specific child welfare case. After Earle broke this story four years ago, another foster child came forward and accused Carl Gilbert of sexual abuse in Cleveland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Target 11: Allegheny Co. rape investigation sparks similar one in Cleveland Gilbert was charged in that case, but died before going to trial. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Aug. 13 (UPI) -- Twelve people, nearly all children, were hospitalized Wednesday after their school bus rolled over in Travis County, a region still reeling from flooding one month ago. Authorities said during a press conference that the bus was transporting 42 children and one adult, presumably the driver, of the Leander Independent School District, primarily from Bagdad Elementary School, about 26 miles north of Austin. Sgt. Billy Ray, public information officer for the Texas Department of Public Safety, Highway Patrol Division, told reporters that they received calls about the rollover at about 3:15 p.m. CDT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The preliminary investigation shows that the bus was traveling south down 22100 Nameless Road, when "for an unknown reason," the vehicle left the right side of the roadway, causing it to roll over, he said. Of the 12 people hospitalized, one appeared to be the driver, whose condition was unknown. Among the remaining injured, one person suffered life-threatening injuries while two others suffered potentially life-threatening injuries, authorities said. Eight EMS ambulance units and two helicopters were deployed to the scene, transporting the injured to Dell Children's Medical Center, Texas Children's Hospital North Austin Campus or Dell Children's -- Cedar Park. Authorities said the dispatch of the helicopters does not reflect the severity of the injuries suffered, but rather the distance the ambulances had to travel to the crash site in rural Travis County. Ray identified the bus as a 2024 Blue Bird that was equipped with seatbelts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bruce Gearing, LISD superintendent, explained that students are required to wear seatbelts when the bus is equipped with them. He said this incident compounds the pain Travis County is already feeling from last month's flooding, which destroyed nearly 200 homes and killed at least 10 people. "This part of our Leander ISD family has been through so much already this summer with the floods, and this tragedy this afternoon has really breaking our hearts," he 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 that we can in our power to support them. We will be here for all of those students who were affected and their friends and families as much as we can." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A reunification center was established at Round Mountain Baptist Church where all other students on the bus who did not require hospital transport were taken. Asked about the driver, Gearing described him as "one of our seasoned bus drivers." It was the second school bus to suffer a traffic incident in Texas on Wednesday, and the third in a week. On Wednesday morning, a bus from the Cleveland Independent School District "was involved in an accident and came to a rest on its side," the district said in a statement. All students were safely removed from the bus and provided medical attention, it said, adding that they were taken to a local hospital "out of an abundance of caution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And a few days earlier, a bus transporting Cleveland High School and Cleveland Ninth Grade Center students was involved in a crash and "came to rest on its side in a ditch," the CISD said in a statement. All students were evacuated and received immediate medical attention, with some transported to local hospitals for evaluation of minor injuries, it added. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D-NM) on Wednesday declared a state of emergency in a New Mexico county riddled with violent crime and drug trafficking, two days after President Donald Trump activated the National Guard in Washington, D.C., and temporarily took over the local police department. The emergency declaration applies to Rio Arriba County, the city of Espanola, and nearby pueblos, which are Native American villages. The county government requested the state's help in response to an uptick in crime that has overwhelmed local resources, contributing to homelessness and fatal drug overdoses in the local community. Grisham's order authorizes up to $750,000 in emergency funding for New Mexico's Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to address the crime surge in Rio Arriba, which is located in the northern part of the state, about 25 miles from Santa Fe. When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action, Grisham said in a statement. 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. Grisham did not mention a deployment of the National Guard, although the executive order authorizing the emergency declaration permits it. "The Adjutant General shall order into service any elements of the New Mexico National Guard as are or may be needed to provide military support to civil authorities as needed for this emergency," the order states. Featured Local Savings Wednesday's action marks the second time this year that Grisham has declared a state of emergency in the state over crime rates. In April, Grisham deployed about 70 New Mexico National Guard members to Albuquerque at the request of the city's police department to combat juvenile crime and fentanyl. The National Guard was used to secure perimeters around crime scenes and manage traffic control in order to free up local law enforcement's resources. The emergency funds granted to Rio Arriba are intended to help local law enforcement agencies with spending on overtime pay, equipment, and coordinated police response, according to a spokesperson for Grisham's office. DC OFFICIALS SEE TAKEOVER AS OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH FEDERAL PARTNERS On Monday, Trump declared a crime emergency to wrest control of the Metropolitan Police Department in the district and deploy the National Guard and other federal agents. The administration's takeover of the police has been met with resistance from Democratic lawmakers and local residents, although Mayor Muriel Bowser has so far been complying with the federal oversight. Over 100 people have been arrested in the district so far this week. Trump has hinted he will send federal law enforcement to other blue, crime-ridden cities, naming Baltimore and Oakland as examples. While Trump did not name any city in New Mexico, Grisham appears to be getting ahead of the president with her own crime response. NEED TO KNOW Sarah Niyimbona, 12, was admitted to Sacred Heart Childrens Hospital allegedly for 24-hour supervision after suicide attempts and self-harm, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by her family The lawsuit alleges the hospital removed the worker and video monitors from her room before her death on April 13, when she jumped off the fourth floor of the hospital parking garage Fifteeen nurses were fired after her death; PEOPLE has reached out to Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and the Washington State Nurses Association for comment A Washington state girl, 12, died after she jumped from a parking garage connected to the hospital where she was allegedly supposed to be under round-the-clock care. Her suicide has led to a lawsuit against the medical center. and the termination of 15 nurses. Sarah Niyimbona had been struggling with intermittent mental health crises related to depression, self-harm, suicide attempts, and suicidal ideation." She was being treated at Sacred Heart Childrens Hospital, part of Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by her mother, Nasra Gertrude, against the hospital. Asha Joseph/GoFundMe Sarah Niyimbona's family has filed a wrongful death suit against the hospital that was treating her. Sarah Niyimbona's family has filed a wrongful death suit against the hospital that was treating her. Providence told PEOPLE, "We are heartbroken about the tragedy that occurred at Sacred Heart Medical Center. Safe, compassionate care is always our top priority. Following the incident, we launched an internal investigation and self-reported to health authorities, prompting an external investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement continued: "Providence implemented improved protocols and trainings, which included screening all patients for potential suicide risk and responding to situations when patients go missing while hospitalized. These improved protocols have been approved by health care authorities. We cannot share specifics due to patient privacy laws. We believe that Sacred Heart Medical Center provides compassionate and thoughtful care to our patients in alignment with our Mission and values. " https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Sarahs struggles began in September 2024, but per the lawsuit, she was admitted to the hospital in January 2025 for inpatient treatment where she was under round-the-clock supervision. Her care, the lawsuit alleges, included a health care worker assigned to monitor Sarah in her room, the use of a video monitoring system, and the use of door alarms. The lawsuit alleges that the hospital removed the health care worker and video monitors in the weeks before her death on April 13, when the hospital also failed to properly [utilize] and monitor alarms in Sarah's room. Asha Joseph/GoFundMe Sarah Niyimbona's family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the hospital. Sarah Niyimbona's family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the hospital. On that date, Sarah was able to walk freely throughout the hospital, the lawsuit alleges, until she reached the fourth floor of the parking garage. She jumped off suffering catastrophic injuries. the lawsuit says, adding Sarah Niyimbona did not pass away on impact. She was treated for catastrophic lower extremity injuries for over two hours in Providence emergency room. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarah Niyimbona experienced extreme fear, pain, and suffering in the hours prior to her death, the lawsuit alleges, saying she "died needlessly due to the negligence of defendant Providence in failing to keep her safe." Following her death, 15 nurses were fired, according to a report in the Spokesman-Review. But their termination wasn't due to Sarah's care. Rather, it was for patient privacy violations, a hospital spokesperson told the outlet. The Washington State Nurses Association has filed a grievance against the hospital, claiming they were terminated for speaking to the media. PEOPLE has reached out to WSNA for comment. "Providence takes violations of our code of conduct and federal privacy laws that govern private health information very seriously. We review employee conduct and take appropriate action, including termination of employment, where warranted," Providence told PEOPLE in a statement. "Patient privacy is one of our top priorities. Providence will fully participate in the grievance process outlined in its Collective Bargaining Agreement with WSNA, which provides for a mechanism to resolve disputes about disciplinary decisions. Providence regularly provides training to all its caregivers about its privacy policy and the importance of complying with state and federal privacy laws." Francis Dean/Corbis via Getty Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Wash. Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Wash. Any information accessed pertained directly to the nurses duties responding to this crisis, WSNA director David Keepnews said, per the Spokesman-Review. We reject Providence Sacred Hearts claims that privacy was violated by nurses who were doing their jobs to assist in efforts to save the life of a 12-year-old girl in the hospitals care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sarah was was a shining light, a bright angel who lit up our lives with her presence. Sarah was intelligent, independent, and outspoken, with a unique perspective on life that was truly magical, according to a GoFundMe that has been established to help Sarahs family pay for legal fees and her tombstone. It's heartbreaking that the one place that was supposed to keep her safe failed to do so. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Read the original article on People Ukraine has managed to bring back a 17-year-old boy from the temporarily occupied territories. He sought help on his own. Source: Bring Kids Back UA Details: 17-year-old Mykhailo had to live most of his life under occupation, where danger and fear became his reality. The Russian military constantly monitored Mykhailos family, conducting regular checks and searches. While remaining in his homeland, Mykhailo had to be very careful with every word he said, as any statement could cause serious problems for him or his mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Mykhailo lived in constant fear of being mobilised into the Russian army. In addition, the situation at home was difficult, so even as a child, he was forced to take care of the household and help his mother," said the Bring Kids Back UA initiative. The young man's father and brother live in territory controlled by Ukraine, but it was dangerous to talk about this under occupation. Because of this, Mykhailo rarely communicated with his father, and all attempts to take the boy out of the occupied territory failed due to the strict control of the Russians. So the dream of reuniting with his family seemed impossible. When the situation became critical, Mykhailo himself asked for help. Thanks to the Ukrainian Child Rights Network team, he was able to prepare documents, develop a safe route and ensure an escort during his departure. "Now Mykhailo is on free soil, with his father and brother, receiving psychological help, processing documents and preparing for a long-awaited new life in safety and without fear," said representatives of the initiative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: Earlier, the daughter of a deceased soldier, whom the Russians wanted to send to a Russian childrens home, and two young men who wanted to live and build their future in a free country were brought back to Ukraine. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! CHARLES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) A 17-year-old boy was charged in connection with a shooting investigation in Waldorf that happened in July. On July 5, deputies with the Charles County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) were notified that a person had arrived at the hospital after being shot in the leg. There, a 22-year-old told authorities that he went to meet with a person on Sharpersville Road to buy a pair of AirPods. He added that during the interaction, the suspect, a 17-year-old boy, took out a gun. The two then got into a struggle, and the man was shot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigation into Waldorf fire that claimed 6 lives continues As the investigation developed, deputies later learned that the victim met with the teen to sell them a gun. During the meeting, the buyer allegedly grabbed the gun and shot the man in the leg. Police noted that the man sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to survive. Investigators obtained an arrest warrant and another search warrant for the teenagers home. Deputies served the warrant on Aug. 6 and discovered evidence related to the shooting. Police charged the 17-year-old as an adult with robbery, aggravated assault and weapons violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. BATTLE CREEK, Mich. (WOOD) An 18-year-old has been charged with drunken driving causing death in a crash at a Battle Creek park last month. Gavin Scott was arraigned Thursday on four counts, including operating while intoxicated causing death, reckless driving causing death, reckless driving causing serious injury and operating while intoxicated causing serious injury. Battle Creek PD: Passenger, 18, killed in reckless driving crash Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents show that around 1:10 a.m. July 14, Scott was the driver in a car that was doing doughnuts at Irving Park. His passengers included Daelnn Roark, 18, and a 17-year-old girl. At least one of the passengers was hanging outside of the car when it rolled over, authorities say. Both of the passengers were ejected and suffered significant injuries, documents say. They were taken to the hospital, where Roark died from his injuries. A makeshift memorial for Daelnn Roark at Irving Park in Battle Creek. (Aug. 14, 2025) The girl had to get more than a dozen stitches on her chest, nine stitches above her eye and suffered a chipped tooth. Scott told officers at the scene that he was driving and had two shots of alcohol before the crash. A blood draw put his blood alcohol content at .053. Michigans legal limit to drive is .08 for those over 21. Under state law, those under 21 should not have any alcohol in their system while driving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scotts bond was set at $5,000 at arraignment Thursday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. The 18-year-old man killed in a shooting at the MultiCare Allenmore Hospital in Tacoma earlier this month has been identified, according to the Pierce County Medical Examiners Office. Jaedyn Williams of University Place died on Aug. 6 near the 1900 block of South Union Avenue from a gunshot wound to the torso. His manner of death was listed as a homicide, the office wrote in a news release. Martice Lawon Ryan, 25, was charged by prosecutors with first-degree murder and first-degree assault for the shooting. Ryan is also accused of shooting and injuring Williams girlfriend at the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams and his girlfriend were reportedly in the waiting area of the hospitals emergency room for his elbow pain, according to charging documents. The woman told investigators that Ryan entered the waiting room when they checked in. He approached them with an arm inside his hoodie and asked Williams why he was staring at him, documents show. Williams replied that he was not. Ryan asked Williams if he knew him, to which the victim said he did not. Documents show that Ryan allegedly took out a gun and fired at the victims. The woman told police she did not recognize Ryan, and they did not have any interactions before they came to the hospital. During Ryans arraignment Monday, Williams father urged Pierce County Court Commissioner Barbara McInvaille to not set bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This wasnt just a homicide, your honor, this was an act of terror. This was an act that took place in a hospital, again, where anyone in this community should feel safe, he said. Ryan is being held at the Pierce County Jail on a no-bail hold. Arguments for bail are reserved for a future hearing. Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall holds a news conference outside City Hall in Salt Lake City to urge the Utah Legislature to support more funding for homeless services on Aug. 13, 2025. (Katie McKellar/Utah News Dispatch) Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall has issued yet another call to the Utah Legislature to more seriously consider funding requests to bolster the states homeless system. The mayor held a news conference on Wednesday hours after the Utah Office of Homeless Services released its annual report which showed an 18% increase in the number of Utahns experiencing homelessness on a single night in January, according to the 2025 Point-in-Time Count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That number should be heard as a battle cry, Mendenhall said outside City Hall, to bring more energy, focus and leadership to this issue by our state Legislature. I want to be clear that Im standing here before you today because Im deeply concerned about the trajectory of homelessness in the state of Utah and in our capital city, she said. And once more, Im extremely concerned by the lack of forward momentum from legislative leaders to address this growing statewide crisis. On Wednesday, Mendenhall pointed to the states newly released homelessness data as evidence that the states homeless system is facing growing needs. That report also showed the number of Utah children experiencing homelessness increased by 12% and the number of unhoused Utahns over the age of 64 rose 42%. To our state leaders, your partners are here. We are ready and willing to work with you. And the changes that are needed are clear, Mendenahall said, noting that city leaders have made a proposal to increase homeless shelter capacity, but it lacks state funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As your partners, we have a plan for 1,300 more shelter beds. We have made land available, yet as of today, we have only one-third of the capital funding needed to build the first phase, and not a penny of operational capital. Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall (left) and Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd hold a news conference outside City Hall in Salt Lake City to urge the Utah Legislature to support more funding for homeless services on Aug. 13, 2025. (Katie McKellar/Utah News Dispatch) Our citizens expect results, not finger-pointing, governor and legislative leaders say In response to Mendenhalls call, however, Utahs top Republican leaders Gov. Spencer Cox, Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, and House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper issued a joint statement saying the state has invested hundreds of millions in homeless services in recent years. And they urged Mendenhall to turn down the politics. Over the past five years, the state has made the largest investment in homeless services in our states history, spending more than $266 million on addressing homelessness. That includes setting aside $25 million to build a transformative campus, Cox, Adams and Schultz said. They added that across the nation, addressing homelessness is primarily a city and county responsibility, but in Utah, the state has stepped up as a committed partner, working alongside local governments and the private sector to find real solutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state remains committed to enhancing public safety and maintaining order, but lasting solutions require collaboration and partnership from the city, county and private sector leaders, they added. While Cox, Adams and Schultz said theyve been encouraged by newly-appointed Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redds efforts to improve safety in Salt Lake City, its frustrating to continuously take one step forward and two steps back with Salt Lake City. The city needs to stay focused on its core responsibility of protecting its citizens, keeping streets safe and clean and making our capital a place Utahns can be proud of and visitors want to experience, they said. We urge Mayor Mendenhall to turn down the politics and keep working with us to find practical and lasting solutions to this complex issue. Our citizens expect results, not finger-pointing. Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall (left) and Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd hold a news conference outside City Hall in Salt Lake City to urge the Utah Legislature to support more funding for homeless services on Aug. 13, 2025. (Katie McKellar/Utah News Dispatch) Salt Lake City is making good on our part This marks the second time in less than a month that the mayor of Utahs capital city has called on the Republican-controlled Legislature to take city requests more seriously for more funding to more holistically address crime, substance abuse, affordable housing and homeless services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Mendenhall said she was disappointed in the lack of progress from the Legislature to adhere to a list of recommendations she included the public safety plan she presented in response to demands from state leaders, who had grown frustrated with crime, drugs and illegal camping in Salt Lake City ahead of the 2025 Legislature. The mayor on Wednesday again pointed to her public safety plan and the actions the Salt Lake City Police Department took to increase enforcement and address homelessness. Salt Lake City is making good on our part, she said. But the reality is, this is a humanitarian crisis. This is not something we can police our way out of. Salt Lake City is taking enforcement as far as we can, and to little avail. The mayor said Salt Lake City police are on pace to set records for total arrests this year, thanks in part to increased proactive policing by our officers. She also noted that overall citywide crime remains at or below a 16-year low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are enforcing our laws, she said, but the sad reality is that without more mental health treatment, more shelter beds, more permanent supportive housing and more capacity in our jails, too many people remain on our streets. Mendenhall said it should come as no surprise that the states homeless population is increasing due to financial and economic pressures along with a longstanding housing shortage and home and rental prices that have skyrocketed over the past five years. There are simply not enough options for housing, shelter beds, treatment centers or social services to meet the demand in this state, she said. The 2026 Utah Legislatures general session is scheduled to convene on Jan. 20. Acknowledging thats months away, Mendenhall said the need is startling, so shes issuing the call now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im telling you now, in the middle of our warmest months, that the situation is dire, she said. Funding for winter shelter beds expected to run out in April Mendenhall said local leaders have already started trying to prepare for this winters emergency shelter response, but theyre anticipating a lack of funding to open enough beds, which she said should be upsetting to all of us. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX There wont be enough beds, she said, adding that counties are submitting winter response plans for state approval, but Im very doubtful that those beds will be available. So we almost assuredly will have people on the streets with no option of space to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mendenhall, who sits as a voting member on the Utah Homeless Services Board, said the Utah Office of Homeless Services does not have funding to continue those beds beyond April, though that office has kept about 900 winter shelter beds open into this summer because they had the funding from the Legislature to do so. But beyond this coming winter season, the money will dry up unless lawmakers approve more. So come the end of the winter shelter season, everyone whos in one of the 900-plus beds that were created this year would be out on the streets, she said. And the impact in our downtown core, throughout our neighborhoods and parks and trail system, of 1,000-plus people flooding out with no option of places to go is very alarming. Theres not enough money to build homeless campus, mayor says Mendenhall also reiterated her warning last month that progress has stalled in the effort to create a 1,200- to 1,600-bed homeless campus due to inadequate funding to build and non-existent funding to operate a new campus shelter. This is unacceptable, she said. Im calling on our state leaders to recognize the crisis at hand. Step in to join your willing partners in local government, and lead the passage of legislation that will invest both the capital and ongoing operational funding for a new shelter space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Efforts to site and build that homeless campus are still ongoing, but state officials dont expect it to be built in time for the coming winter. Last fall, the Utah Homeless Services Board set a deadline of Oct. 1, 2025 for the campus to be built, but State Homeless Coordinator Wayne Niederhauser said the siting process is taking longer than expected. We are working hard, Niederhauser told Utah News Dispatch earlier this week, but he said it could be a matter of months before state leaders can finish environmental evaluations on properties they are considering something he said must be done before state leaders decide whether to move forward with eminent domain powers granted by the 2025 Utah Legislature specifically to site the homeless campus. Niederhauser, however, acknowledged the need is huge. We appreciate the acute need, the serious need of this, he said. So were not letting grass grow under our feet. Were working hard to find a pathway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Utah Office of Homeless Services is also working on drafting funding recommendations to include in Gov. Spencer Coxs budget proposal thats usually issued in December. But in recent years, the Utah Legislature has only funded a fraction of what the governor has requested for homeless services. For 2025, Cox initially sought $128 million for homelessness, but in the end lawmakers funded $50 million in additional state spending for emergency shelter, including $25 million for low barrier shelter. Some of that was used to keep winter shelter beds open, while some is also supposed to be used to site and build the new homeless campus. But thats not enough money to both build and fund ongoing operations for the new homeless campus, Mendenhall warned, urging lawmakers to appropriate more. She said over the coming months, city leaders will work with the Utah Office of Homeless Services, the courts system, and Salt Lake County officials will be working to bring legislative requests that are needed to right the wrongs in the system that exist today. But, she said, there are no wheels on the bus that we present unless the state moves us forward. We must see action from legislative leadership and our governor to create the change that we know is not only possible, but is desperately needed. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) A 19-year-old has been arrested on murder charges stemming from a Saturday shooting in Georgetown County, Sheriff Carter Weaver said. Savion Grimmage, 19, is also facing charges of possession of a weapon during a violent crime and is being held at Georgetown County Detention Center pending a bond hearing. Authorities say Grimmage shot 23-year-old Ricky Dixon at a nightclub on Fuzzy Lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) A 19-year-old died after they were hit by a car while walking in Lincolnia earlier this month. Minutes after midnight, around 12:20 a.m. on Aug. 1, officers with the Fairfax County Police Department responded to a crash involving a pedestrian near the Little River Turnpike and Beauregard Street. An investigation determined that the driver of a 2003 Lincoln Town Car was traveling on the turnpike when they struck the 19-year-old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginia State Police say they are not investigating any mass abductions despite viral rumors The pedestrian, Angel Benito Matom Velasco, 19, of Alexandria, was taken to the hospital with serious injuries and later died. The driver of the car was not hurt in the crash and stayed at the scene. Fairfax County investigators said alcohol and speed did not appear to be factors in the crash, but the circumstances surrounding the crash are still being investigated. Detectives are looking to speak to anyone who may have more details about the collision. To call the police departments crash Reconstruction Unit at 703-280-0543. Tips can also be submitted online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Two people were arrested after a state trooper found 15 grams of suspected fentanyl during a traffic stop on Interstate 70 this month. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Indiana State Police (ISP) said in a social media post that a Wayne County dispatcher received a report of a red vehicle hitting a guardrail on I-70 Westbound near the 150-mile marker on August 7. The vehicle continued west down I-70 when the trooper found it near 146-mile marker. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trooper discovered both the driver and the passenger unconscious inside. While checking their welfare, Trooper (Jake) Ridgway saw a small plastic bag containing a white powdery substance plainly visible between the passengers legs, said an Indiana State Police spokesperson. The substance is suspected to be fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. The trooper arrested the driver, Justin Dawson, 45, on several preliminary charges, including a felony count of possession of a narcotic drug. The passenger, Roxanne Steele, 43, was arrested on a preliminary felony count of possession of a narcotic drug. The suspected fentanyl was seized as evidence and submitted to the ISP laboratory for more analysis. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] **See a previous report on this shooting in the above video MAPLE HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW) Two people were taken into custody after a man was shot in the parking lot of a Giant Eagle over the weekend and eventually died, Maple Heights police reported. Officers responded to the 5300 block of Warrensville Center Road around 1:40 p.m. Saturday, where they found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cleveland woman set on fire in dispute with neighbor: PD According to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner, 28-year-old Timothy Kappenhagen succumbed to his injuries just before 7 a.m. on Sunday. WJW photo Investigators found that the victim was shopping at Giant Eagle and was in the parking lot loading groceries into his vehicle when the suspect approached him. The two begin to struggle with each other. Thats when the victim was shot and the suspect sped off in the victims vehicle. Police said Thursday that a vehicle of interest was found by RTA police Monday with two males inside, who were taken into custody for questioning. No one has yet been charged, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elderly man killed, 2 people injured in crash that shut down I-90 for hours The armed robbery/felonious assault/homicide case remains under investigation and police are still searching for people of interest. Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to call the Maple Heights Detective Bureau at 216-587-9624. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) launched his partisan redistricting plan at an event in Los Angeles on Thursday, issuing a stern warning to President Donald Trump "not to mess with the Golden State." We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear district by district all across the country, Newsom said as he called for a Nov. 4 special election to put the new map before voters. The Election Rigging Response Act is a direct response to efforts by Republicans in Texas to redraw their own maps, the Democratic governor said. "You have the power to stand up on Nov. 4 for people who are being bullied," he said. "You have the power to stand up for people who are being intimidated. You have the power to stand up to the rule of law. We are giving the people of this state the power to save democracy, not just in California but all across the United States of America." State lawmakers must declare a special election, which they plan to do next week. A draft of the Democrats proposed maps is expected to be released Friday, a spokesman for California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas told the Washington Examiner. Once the maps are out, lawmakers must act quickly and approve them by next week, which shouldn't be problematic as Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers. Newsom added that the state government will affirm its commitment to California's independent Redistricting Commission after the 2030 census, "but we're asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028 and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to what's happening in Texas and we'll do so in a way that also affirms our desire as a state to level the playing field all across the United States." Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) also had some harsh words for the president. "I will say this, you come after our votes in California and we will fight you tooth and nail," he said. "Donald Trump, you do not poke the bear." Newsom teased Thursday's announcement, posting on social media the night before: "Donald Trump is about to have a very bad day." The news follows a contentious back-and-forth between California Democrats and the president over redistricting. Trump suggested earlier this summer that Texass redistricting could help Republicans gain five House seats to keep the party in control after the 2026 midterm elections. Currently, Republicans have a seven-seat edge in the House, with four vacancies. Featured Local Savings Trump has been able to enact his agenda, including passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and clawing back funding for National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting System, because the GOP controls the White House and both chambers of Congress. If Democrats can flip the House, they could render Trump a lame duck during his last two years in office by blocking his legislation and launching congressional investigations. On July 30, Texas state lawmakers rolled out their proposed map, which would create 30 Republican congressional seats compared to eight Democratic districts. This would be an expected five-seat boost for the GOP from its current 25-13 breakdown. Republicans are also looking for ways to add a dozen or more districts across Florida, Missouri, Ohio, and Indiana. In response, states controlled by Democrats, including California, Illinois, and Maryland, have pledged to fight back. Newsom has said he would not pursue a push to redraw Californias congressional districts as long as Texas Republicans ended their efforts, which is unlikely. Sarah Sadwani, an assistant professor of politics at Pomona College and a member of California's redistricting commission, told the crowd Thursday that the country was experiencing "extraordinary times, and extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures." "We have witnessed masked gunmen kidnapping our neighbors off the streets, and it's my understanding that they are outside waiting to do it again," she said. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers were reported outside the venue as Newsom and other Democrats were speaking. REDISTRICTING WARS THREATEN TO MAKE CONGRESS MORE PARTISAN "We have seen not just the toleration of political violence but the encouragement of it," Sadwani said. "We are watching executive overreach that no doubt is making our founding fathers turn in their graves, and we have to take action. We must be humble and we must be bold." Sadwani said she was ready to sign off on Newsom's plan "with the expectation that this is a one-time occurrence. That this does not subvert the will of the people of California." Two people were killed, and several were injured after a head-on crash in Ohio on Wednesday. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) troopers responded to U.S. 23 on reports of a crash in Delaware County just after 8:30 p.m., according to our news partner WBNS TV in Columbus. Two women, 64-year-old Carol Waldman and 54-year-old Amanda Reidling, were pronounced dead at the scene. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An initial investigation showed that a 2018 Dodge Ram was traveling south on U.S. 23 when it hit a 2021 Toyota Venza head-on. The pickup truck then crashed head-on into a 2025 Honda Accord. The truck stopped against a guardrail, according to the OSHP. The Ram and Accord caught fire after the crash. Waldman and Reidling were two passengers inside the Venza. Medics transported the Venza driver, the fourth passenger, and the pickup truck driver to the hospital with serious injuries, WBNS said. The driver of the Accord and their 8-year-old passenger had minor injuries but were not taken to a hospital. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] CHICAGO An investigation is underway on Thursday after two teens were injured in a shooting on the Southwest Side overnight. According to police, officers were first notified about the shooting after the two victims, a 19-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy, arrived at a hospital with gunshot wounds. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Police said the teens later told officers that they suffered the wounds while walking in the 4200 block of South Fairfield Avenue in Brighton Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teens said that as they were walking, they both heard a noise and felt pain, but police said additional details surrounding the incident are unclear, as the victims were uncooperative with the investigation. LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland They later took themselves to the hospital, where they were listed in fair condition. Currently, it is unclear what led to the gunfire and an investigation is underway. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact CPD Area One detectives at 312-747-8380 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. NEED TO KNOW Two people were bitten by the same rabid fox in a North Carolina town on Tuesday, Aug. 11, according to authorities One of the victims, Jordan Burns, said she was attacked after leaving her home to investigate what she believed was the sound of an injured cat The second victim has been reported as a 77-year-old man who was bitten a short distance away Authorities in North Carolina say two people were injured in the same town after they were bitten by a rabid fox. The incidents occurred on Midway Road and Sycamore Street in Aberdeen on Tuesday, Aug. 11, the Moore County Sheriff's Office said in an initial news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan Burns, one of the two victims, said she was bitten after leaving her home to investigate what she believed was the sound of an injured cat, according to CBS affiliate WNCN. Every time I would get it off of me, it would latch on somewhere else, Burns recalled. And then it became clear to me I was going to have to do something. It was going to be me or the fox. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Aberdeen Police Capt. Chris Davis said the woman got bit on the side of her leg, according to NBC affiliate WRAL. Davis said the woman was able to grab the animal by its chin in order to get it off of her, but then it bit her hand after that." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second person was bitten nearby a short time later. The unidentified victim, a 77-year-old man, was also bitten on the leg, WRAL reported. The sheriff's office said both bite victims are receiving appropriate care for their wounds. In a second news release, the sheriffs office said the fox tested positive for rabies. Burns was unaware that the fox had tested positive for rabies when speaking with WNCN. She told the news station that she was concerned that it would be the case. 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. Im very sore and shaken up, as you can imagine, Burns told the outlet. It was just such a bizarre thing. You know, I never expected it would be a fox that would bite me. Residents who may come across animals exhibiting unusual or aggressive behavior are asked to contact Moore County Animal Services at 910-947-2858. Read the original article on People A former adjutant general of the Utah National Guard who was placed on administrative leave two years ago after an Army investigation has retired as a lieutenant colonel, defense officials confirmed. An Army Inspector General Investigation substantiated the allegation that Maj. Gen. Michael J. Turley engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, said Army spokeswoman Cynthia O. Smith. He will retire as a Lieutenant Colonel (O-5/L TC), which was determined the last grade in which he honorably served. We consider this matter closed. No further information about the investigation or the substantiated allegation against Turley was immediately available on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turley retired at the lower rank following an assessment by the Army Grade Determination Review Board, said Keith Garner, deputy director of public affairs for the Utah National Guard. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox announced on Aug. 17, 2023, that Turley was under investigation by the Army Inspector Generals Office. We have not received a copy of their report, but based on the information conveyed by the [Department of the Army Inspector General], Maj. Gen. Turley was put on paid administrative leave, Cox said in a statement at the time. On the day of Coxs announcement, USA Today reported that the investigation had determined that Turley had an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate soldier, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter. Top Stories This Week News Airman arrested for death that prompted Air Force-wide safety review of Sig M18 By Jeff Schogol Culture Laura Loomer unites vets from both sides of aisle after Medal of Honor rant By Matt White News 3 aircraft carriers and ships, fighters from 6 navies train in the Pacific By Nicholas Slayton Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Task & Purpose has asked Coxs office for a statement in response to the news that Turley had retired as a lieutenant colonel. When officers are demoted, it is customary that defense officials announce their ranks have been lowered to the last grade that they served honorably or satisfactorily. An extreme example is former Army Maj. Gen. James Grazioplene, who was busted down to second lieutenant after pleading guilty in a civilian court to sexually abusing his daughter when she was a child. This practice is typically used in cases in which service members try to retire and facts and evidence of misconduct earlier in their careers come to light of misconduct, said retired Air Force Lt. Col. Rachel VanLandingham, a former military attorney. Their misconduct, then, taints everything they did afterwards, said VanLandingham, a law professor at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such demotions are rare but not unheard of, she said. It allows for the Pentagon to say: Hey, look, you dont deserve to have this rank in perpetuity in retirement, and you dont deserve the pay, VanLandingham said. Its a huge pay cut for the rest of your life in your pension because you did not honorably serve. The Brief Jaycee Whitney Chamberlain Behnke and Antonina "Hunter" Abdulwajid, both 18, were charged with second-degree robbery and assault in the Aug. 7 incident. Authorities said the 62-year-old victim was in a supermarket parking lot while his partner shopped when he was beaten and then robbed. Two other juveniles were involved in the incident. Their cases will go through juvenile court. WALNUT CREEK, CALIF. - Two 18-year-old women have been charged after allegedly beating and robbing a man in a Walnut Creek parking lot, authorities said. Happened in a supermarket parking lot What we know The Contra Costa County District Attorneys Office charged Jaycee Whitney Chamberlain Behnke, of Walnut Creek, and Antonina "Hunter" Abdulwajid, of Concord, with second-degree robbery and assault in the Aug. 7 incident. Two juveniles were also arrested, and their cases will be handled in juvenile court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said the 62-year-old victim was sitting in the passenger seat of a van around 11 p.m. while his partner shopped inside a store in the 1900 block of Trice Valley Boulevard. Suspects circled victim's vehicle before attack Dig deeper Behnke, Abdulwajid, and the two juveniles drove up to the van and circled it several times, prosecutors said. When the victim got out and walked toward their car, which had stopped nearby, one of the juveniles jumped out and attacked him. Abdulwajid and the other juvenile then joined in, punching and kicking the victim until he fell to the ground, where he was kicked repeatedly, prosecutors said. Authorities said there is video footage and witness statements showing the attack. The victim was injured and robbed, though officials did not specify what was taken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police spotted the suspects vehicle about a mile away and arrested all four. If convicted, Behnke and Abdulwajid each face up to six years in prison. The Source Contra Costa District Attorney's Office SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KCAU) New information was released on Tuesday about the nearly 207-pound meth bust last Friday. The South Dakota Attorney Generals Office said a grand jury indicted a Mexican national who lives in Fresno, California, on two felony charges. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alonso Molinacorona pleaded not guilty to those charges. Hes currently being held without bond. Authorities said the states highway patrol pulled him over on Friday evening for speeding on I-90 in Sturgis. Thats when law enforcement officers found meth in the vehicle. Attorney General Marty Jackley said he expects federal charges to also 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 SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. A massive cloudburst in India's Jammu and Kashmir region on Thursday triggered a flash flood and landslides leading to the deaths of at least 23 people and injuries of more than 40, according to officials and news reports. The rainstorm hit the remote village of Chositi in the Kishtwar district, where people had gathered for an annual pilgrimage to a remote Hindu temple. The village is the last motorable stop on the way to the Machail Mata shrine. The pilgrimage has been suspended and the authorities are focusing on rescue operations, Pankaj Sharma, deputy commissioner of the Kishtwar district said. Local government sources said the toll could rise with more people feared trapped in the debris or washed away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal minister and lawmaker from the region, Jitendra Singh, wrote on X: "A massive cloud burst in Chositi area, which could result in substantial casualty." The inclement weather and the remoteness of the disaster site were complicating the rescue operations. Units of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the army were on their way to the site, the NDTV news channel reported. Footage from Chositi showed gushing water, damaged homes and vehicles, and debris of mud and rock. The flood waters washed away temporary tent kitchens set up for the pilgrims, NDTV reported. India's seasonal monsoon rains from June to September are crucial for farmers but often leave a trail of death and destruction. Authorities arrested 56 people and seized 3,500 birds, as well as firearms and drug paraphernalia, during a multi-week cockfighting investigation in San Bernardino County, officials said. The operation, dubbed "Crowing Rooster," ran from June 14 to Aug. 1 and entailed 26 search warrants served at locations throughout the county, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. Those arrested range in age from 16 to 73 years old, authorities said. Many live in San Bernardino County, but some are residents of Los Angeles, Long Beach and Camarillo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the 56 people arrested, 10 have been charged with a felony. The others have been charged with misdeameanor crimes that include animal cruelty, according to the Sheriff's Department. Read more: More than 200 roosters and firearms found in cockfighting bust in Southern California The 3,500 cockfighting birds found throughout the course of the investigation were relinquished to animal care services and euthanized, said Francis Delapaz, spokesperson for the county Department of Public Health. "Due to their breeding and conditioning for fighting, they could not be safely rehabilitated or rehomed," Delapaz said. "This difficult decision was made in accordance with state law and animal welfare guidelines to prevent further suffering and ensure community safety." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators also seized more than $259,000 in cash and recovered 12 firearms including three "ghost guns." They also seized 12 ounces of cocaine, 11.5 ounces of methamphetamine, and 6 grams of fentanyl with a street value of about $11,000, authorities said. Cockfighting is always bound up with other illicit activities, including unregulated gambling, illegal possession of firearms, narcotics trafficking, money laundering and public corruption," Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy, said in a statement. "When a sheriffs office busts an animal-fighting enterprise, the law enforcement team stops a larger crime wave in the community. Read more: 200 mutilated roosters found during search of suspected cockfighting pit in Santa Cruz County However, he said the organization believes California's penalties for cockfighting crimes aren't enough to deter ongoing illegal operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the state level, Assemblymember Chris Rogers (D-Santa Rosa) has introduced Assembly Bill 928, the Cockfighting Cruelty Act, which would penalize anyone who maintains more than three roosters per acre, or 25 total on a property. The measure would exempt commercial poultry operations, poultry hobbyists, schools, animal agencies and Future Farmers of America and 4H projects. "Crowing Rooster" is the latest cockfighting bust in the Inland Empire. Earlier this month, federal authorities arrested and charged four Inland Empire residents for their alleged involvement in an illicit animal fighting venture. Read more: 70 roosters seized at suspected cockfighting operation near Palmdale Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The men allegedly ran elaborate cockfighting events out of a San Bernardino County residence that at times drew crowds of more than 100 spectators and gamblers. Authorities say that attendees paid $20 to park at a lot less than a mile from the property and were shuttled to the home. They also paid another fee to enter. Sheriff's deputies also broke up an operation in a semi-rural compound near Victorville that had more than 300 spectators in attendance in January, LAist reported. At least 92 birds were seized from that operation and 47 people were arrested, the outlet reported. 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. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Three people were arrested, and two are wanted after a police chase ended in Baton Rouge near Airline Highway Wednesday night. Members of the Baton Rouge Police Department spotted a reported stolen vehicle around 11:15 p.m. Wednesday. After a failed traffic stop, a chase ensued until it ended on Landwood Drive. BRPD said that is where five individuals bailed from the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said three individuals were apprehended. Two of the three were identified as Jazzamin Rosenberger, 19, and Sirdonavon Jordan, 18. Rosenberger was charged with aggravated criminal damage to property, aggravated flight from an officer, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Jordan was charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and resisting an officer. BRPD said they are searching for the other two individuals. If anyone has information about the two individuals that BRPD is looking for, call Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867. LSP: 1 in custody after high-speed chase ends with crash Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. The New York State Department of Health (NYDOH) is warning about the risks of congenital syphilis after three infant deaths related to the disease have been reported in the state so far this year. The deaths occurred outside of New York City and are part of "a concerning rise" in congenital syphilis cases in the state and across the nation, according to the NYDOH. Cases of congenital syphilis have been rising nationwide in recent years, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2023, there were more than 3,800 cases reported, a 106% increase from 2019 and the highest annual case count on record since 1994. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Newborn syphilis cases at 'dire' levels as analysis shows tenfold increase in last decade: CDC Public health experts told ABC News that congenital syphilis is largely preventable and, when left untreated, it can be dangerous, or even deadly. "What's so devastating is that [congenital syphilis] is very preventable," Dr. Elizabeth Partridge, associate clinical professor of pediatric infectious disease at UC Davis Children's Hospital, told ABC News. "It's an epidemic of congenital syphilis and infections in women of childbearing age." What is congenital syphilis? Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It starts as a painless sore where the infection entered the body. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This infection is easily treated with an antibiotic when caught early. If left untreated, it often progresses, over weeks or months, to a worsening rash that may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, headache and fatigue, according to the CDC. STOCK IMAGE/Getty Images - PHOTO: Doctor listening to belly of pregnant woman. Symptoms can resolve on their own over time but without treatment, syphilis enters a "latent stage," or asymptomatic stage, that can last for years and may progress further to a "tertiary stage" that can impact multiple organs in the body. Congenital syphilis occurs when a pregnant person with untreated syphilis passes the infection to their baby either during pregnancy or at birth. It can be treated with antibiotics and it's best to treat as soon as possible to prevent more severe complications of the disease. The CDC recommends that all pregnant people get tested for syphilis at their first health care visit after learning they are pregnant. Some places with higher rates of this infection may recommend additional screening throughout pregnancy and at birth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Partridge said women of childbearing age who have barriers to prenatal care are at greater risk because they may miss out on syphilis screening. "I see a lot of times that moms don't get those full screenings done, they don't have access to that kind of prenatal care. And that, to me, is just tragic because if moms can get screened, then they can get treated," Partridge said. Why can it be so dangerous? Congenital syphilis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, prematurity or infant death soon after birth, according to the CDC. Babies born with this disease can have deformed bones, low blood counts, jaundice and organ dysfunction, including problems with the brain and nervous system or enlarged liver and spleen. Partridge says common symptoms of congenital syphilis are known but many aren't obvious at birth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Mississippi sees 10-fold increase in babies born with syphilis since 2016: Report "I think up to 70% of babies who may meet the case definition for congenital syphilis are actually asymptomatic, which makes diagnosing it quite challenging," Partridge said. Without treatment, babies who are asymptomatic at birth can begin to show signs of the disease weeks, months or years later. "If they're undetected, if the infants are left untreated, they go on to develop what we call later sequelae, and that's when you see deafness, blindness, developmental delay, the quite devastating illness," Partridge said. Why is congenital syphilis on the rise? Dr. James McDonald, commissioner of the NYDOH, told ABC News that the three newborn deaths from syphilis are concerning because it's uncommon to see infant deaths from the condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDonald said that New York State has seen 21 cases of congenital syphilis so far this year, compared to 36 cases all of last year. "Keep in mind, these may sound like big numbers, but for upstate New York, they are big numbers," he said. "What concerns me, though, is it should be zero." Kristin Wall, an associate professor of epidemiology at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, told ABC News the U.S. has seen a steady rise in congenital syphilis cases over the last 10 years. This is despite decreases in cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea, according to CDC data. STOCK PHOTO/Getty Images - PHOTO: A mom holds a newborn baby in an undated stock photo. She said that there are racial/ethnic disparities when it comes to the populations experiencing the highest rates of congenital syphilis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So the highest rates we're seeing are in Native Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Hispanic populations and Black populations," Wall said. "And I think it's really important to think about access to care barriers as one of the big reasons that we're seeing these increasing rates in certain populations." Barriers can include lack of insurance or lack of transportation as well as mistrust of the medical system due to past prejudices, according to Wall. How to drive down rates of congenital syphilis Wall said half of cases are occurring among patients who are receiving prenatal care, but are missing timely and appropriate treatment, and the other half are occurring in people who are not engaged in care at all. For those who are receiving prenatal care, Wall said there is a push to implement point-of-care testing, meaning testing outside of a traditional clinical laboratory, often at the patient's bedside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delays in waiting for laboratory test results to come back and then trying to recontact the patient can lead to delays in delivering a diagnosis or administering care, Wall said. MORE: FDA authorizes 1st over-the-counter, at-home test for syphilis "A very exciting development to address that is the point of care syphilis testing, where you have a patient right in front of you, you're able to administer that test, get test results in 20, 30 minutes, and administer directly observed treatment right there, without sending, you know, your patient away," she said. For the patients who are not receiving care, Wall said it's important to work with community partners to enter underserved communities and spread awareness, as well as make sure men and women are getting tested to prevent cases from occurring in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McDonald said that as part of an effort to eliminate syphilis from pregnancy, New York State requires three syphilis screenings for pregnant people. "When someone's pregnant, they're supposed to be checked for syphilis three times, one when they have their first visit, the second time around the third trimester, and then the third time is where they give birth," he said. "Part of our message to health care providers is: ensure people are being screened appropriately." He also encouraged people to practice safe sex to prevent the spread of STIs, including the use of condoms. Jade A. Cobern, MD, MPH, is board-certified in pediatrics and general preventive medicine, and is a medical fellow of the ABC News Medical Unit. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Washington, D.C., is under federal control "where it belongs" after he federalized the city's police force. Trump has leveraged his power over the capital city to clean up crime and homeless encampments in recent days. "D.C. has been under siege from thugs and killers, but now, D.C. is back under federal control where it belongs," he wrote on social media Wednesday night as federal officials from multiple agencies and the National Guard surveyed the city for violations of law. "The White House is in charge. The Military and our Great Police will liberate this City, scrape away the filth, and make it safe, clean, habitable and beautiful once more," he added. In the same post, the president shed doubt on the city's crime statistics and said it has one of the "highest rates of crime in the world." Washington has a lower homicide rate than dozens of other cities globally. The president also claimed that the city is under federal control, but it is not. The city's police force has been federalized, but Mayor Muriel Bowser and the District of Columbia Council remain in control of the district's policies. Congress controls its funding. Trump also referenced a Washington police commander under investigation and suspended for manipulating crime statistics. He said the "Democrat government of D.C. has largely stopped investigating, arresting, and prosecuting most crime, the published statistics don't even capture a fraction of the actual violence." The president said citizens do not walk the streets at night, stores lock up their merchandise, and that youth violence goes largely unreported. Featured Local Savings Since announcing the federalization of the Metropolitan Police Department, Trump has sought to paint a picture of a lawless city that he's set to clean up. But under district law, he'll only have 30 days to do it. But Trump said earlier Wednesday that he's seeking "long-term extensions" to his control over the city's police force and is asking Congress for approval. "I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously," Trump said. "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 also said. "We're going to be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you can't have 30 days." TRUMP ANNOUNCES FEDERAL TAKEOVER OF DC POLICE TO FIGHT CRIME: WHAT TO KNOW Trump is the first president to federalize the MPD, according to the district's sole representative in Congress, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC). It's unclear if he plans to take further action to federalize the city itself. Trump cannot federalize the city's government without an act of Congress, an amendment to the Home Rule Act. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Jackson County Prosecutors Office charged three men with several felonies Thursday, claiming they took part in multiple gang-related shootings back in July. According to Prosecutor Melesa Johnson, Alexis Vega-Martinez, Julian Chavarria and Antonio Lopez-Hernandez are all facing one count of unlawful use of a weapon and one count of armed criminal action for crimes committed from July 12-13. Police find Alabama fugitive on the run after deadly North Kansas City shooting Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chavarria and Lopez-Hernandez are each facing an additional charge of first-degree property damage. Later on Friday, Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Jackson said that two more charges, stemming from a shooting on July 16, had been filed. According to court records, Kansas City police were called to investigate three separate shootings between the evening of July 12 and the morning of July 13. A probable cause statement claims that police responded to the first call at 6 p.m. on July 12. A man reported that he was inside a home when he thought he heard fireworks outside. He then discovered that his car and another part of his property had been damaged by gunfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man told police he did not know who or why someone targeted his home, court records say. Footage from a nearby homes surveillance footage showed a gray Hyundai Accent with tinted windows driving around the area and reportedly shooting at the victims car. The Hyundai was then seen leaving the scene. Hours later, at about 12:15 a.m. on July 13, officers were called to another home for a shooting call. Investigators say three people were inside the home when the shooting took place; however, none were injured. The victims told police they heard gunshots and then quickly discovered their home had been damaged by gunfire, court records say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While canvassing for witnesses and other victims, another person told police he had been sitting on the front porch of a nearby home when he saw three individuals walking around the area. He told police he saw one of the men carrying a gun and decided to go back inside his home because he had heard about the previous shooting incident that night on his block. According to court records, once he got inside, the man heard gunshots. He then found damage to the exterior wall and window of his house. Three hours later, at about 3:40 a.m., Kansas City police were called to another shooting at a separate home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similar to the previous shootings, no victims were injured, despite there being multiple people inside the home. At this specific home, though, investigators found damage to the bedroom window of the victims two children. They were inside their room at the time of the shooting. Later that morning, officers were called to yet another home, where eight people, including three juveniles, had been inside when gunfire rang out, court records say. 1 killed, 6 hurt in Kansas City crash after driver flees from sergeant, police say Investigators reported finding both the home and two parked vehicles with damage consistent with gunfire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lastly, court records say the owners of another parked car had called police to report damage from gunfire at the same time as one of the earlier shootings. Throughout the investigation, police recovered 137 total spent shell casings from the scenes. According to court records, many of the calibers matched the other shootings and were consistent with the same weapons. All of the suspects were later identified by surveillance footage, witness testimony, or crime scene analysis. Court records say detectives were able to identify some of the suspects by using the shell casings and linking them to guns, which were tied to previous shooting incidents. The names associated with guns led to further investigations, where detectives were able to find the suspects social media profiles. On the profiles, investigators claim some of the men had posted images of themselves with the same guns that were linked to the crimes. The first post was made on July 12, the night of the first shooting, and ended on Aug. 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Video in KC gas station shooting released after grand jury indictment According to court records, the crimes are potentially linked to gang-related activity. It was listed in the documents that Chavarria and Lopez-Hernandez were either members or associates of the 18th Street gang. They also claimed that the men had previously been linked to crimes associated with gang-related crimes. At this time, Chavarria is being held at the Jackson County Detention Center on a $150,000 cash bond, while Vega-Martinez and Lopez-Hernandez are being 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus can often produce a spotty red rash. Measles symptoms can take one to three weeks to develop, but people can spread the virus even before symptoms develop. (iStock / Getty Images Plus) State health officials reported three new measles cases in Santa Fe County on Thursday, pushing New Mexicos infection count to 100 since the outbreak in west Texas spilled across the state line in mid-February. The New Mexico Department of Health said the three new infections with the most recent positive recorded on Aug. 10 were for two adults and one child. All were unvaccinated. No hospitalizations were reported. New Mexico health officials update the case counts every Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We remain grateful New Mexicans continue to get their measles vaccination in an effort to slow the spread of the virus, health department Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miranda Durham said in a news release. Without that, measles outbreaks are more likely to last longer and grow over time. Santa Fe County now has five measles cases. The first one was tied to international travel, health department spokesperson Robert Nott told Source NM in an email. None were linked to the warning issued after a child with measles exposed people at popular art installation Meow Wolf. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared measles eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, with sporadic outbreaks due to international travel. The 2025 outbreak has been the largest national case count in 33 years, driven by falling vaccination rates spread by misinformation. Gaines County, Texas, which ignited the outbreak of over 1,300 cases nationwide, has some of the lowest vaccination rates in the U.S. Three people, including two school-age children in Texas and one adult in Lea County, have died. All three were unvaccinated. Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus, spreads through contact with airborne particles from an infected persons coughs and sneezes. These particles can linger in the air for hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Infected people can spread the disease several days before symptoms appear. It can take between one and three weeks for symptoms to show, which include: headache, fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a spotted red rash spreading from the head and face, down the body. About one in five cases has severe complications including pneumonia, brain swelling and even death. There is no specific treatment for measles, but health officials urge individuals to get two doses of the measles vaccine. The vaccine can prevent catching the disease, ease symptom severity and stop the spread. Health officials report a 73% increase in New Mexicans seeking the measles vaccine this year compared to 2024, administering 48,620 vaccines since Feb. 1. New Mexicans can check their vaccination record online at Vax View. Questions for scheduling vaccinations or symptoms can be directed to the Department of Health Helpline at 1-833-796-8773. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A list of vaccination clinics is available on the states measles website. This story has been updated to clarify that one Santa Fe County measles case is connected to international travel. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX A New Jersey mother whose 3-year-old daughter upended a nearly $1,600 marble table over the weekend at an Ocean County cafe claimed she wasnt allowed to leave before handing over her drivers license and credit card information. I was completely humiliated and embarrassed, Kathy Denman said in a viral TikTok posted shortly after the incident on Sunday. Ive cried since. Denmans daughter, Allie, accidentally pushed over the table at the Hazelnut Cafe in Lavallette while waiting for her mom to pay for their coffee and ice cream, she explained in the video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance footage of the incident shared with NJ Advance Media shows Allie apparently hitting the table with her foot, sending it crashing to the ground. As two other customers in the packed cafe help pick the table up, several pieces from its underside can be seen still lying on the floor. No one was hurt, but Allie was frozen and scared and nervous, Denman said, and everybodys reaction definitely didnt help. Denman said she spoke to one of the cafes owners on the phone, who kept repeating, Our policy is: You break it, you pay for it. She said she remained in the cafe for about 20 more minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hazelnut Cafe is part of Hazel Boutique, a clothing and home decor brand with four locations in New Jersey. It is owned by twin sisters Kimberly and Jenna Campfield. In a statement to NJ Advance Media, they said they were extremely grateful that everyone involved was safe. Following the incident, we personally called the childs mother to express our concern, offer our support, and share our direct contact information should she need anything, they said. But they denied Denmans claim that she had been prevented from leaving the cafe. We also want to be completely transparent: we would never hold anyone against their will, they said. The mother was not charged for the damaged table, even after asking how she could make it right given the table broke. We requested her contact information for insurance purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was not immediately clear if Denman had handed over her credit card information, either with or without prompting. In a brief phone call on Tuesday, Denman said she and her family were doing well. Were good, she said, adding that they were leaving the Shore and returning home to Pompton Plains later that day. She did not return subsequent calls for comment. On Thursday, she posted a written statement to TikTok explaining that the Campfields had reached out to apologize for how our family was treated. Denman said her family had accepted the apology and wanted to move forward peacefully and without further comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video had amassed more than 10 million views by the time her statement was posted. Online sleuths had been quick to find the table, an Anthropologie console that retails for $1,598, as well as a since-deleted video posted by the cafe that appears to show it tilting as patrons lean on it. Denman said in her video that shed learned the table weighed 600 pounds. After NJ Advance Media reached out, Anthropologie updated its listing to show that it weighed 109.25 pounds. A company spokesperson did not respond to a question about whether the item was intended for dining use. The Campfields said in their statement that they had since removed all tables from our locations to eliminate any risk of a similar incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. AJ McDougall may be reached at amcdougall@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on X at @oldmcdougall. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A three-year-old is recovering at a Memphis hospital after being shot in West Helena, Arkansas, on Sunday, Memphis Police say. Officers say they responded to a report of a 3-year-old shooting victim at Le Bonheur Childrens Hospital on Thursday around 10:40 a.m. They say the child was recovering after having surgery. Preliminary information indicates the child was shot and admitted to the hospital on Sunday and that the shooting took place in Arkansas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspect accused of shooting man to death, injuring woman No additional details were released, but this is still an ongoing investigation. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. At least three Orlando Utilities Commission employees were injured Thursday morning in downtown Orlando. 10:25 a.m. update: An OUC spokesperson confirmed with Channel 9 that an incident happened on one of its substations on West Robinson Street. Officials said three maintenance workers were hurt while making repairs inside the building. OUC and fire officials have not confirmed what caused the injuries. SunRail officials said their trains are running again in the area. Original report: Crews responded to an emergency situation Thursday morning in downtown Orlando. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident happened around 8:57 a.m. near the intersection of West Robinson Street and Garland Avenue. The location appears to be an Orlando Utilities Commission facility. An OUC spokesperson told Channel 9 We are aware of the incident and are working to confirm details. A large presence of Orlando firefighters and police are in the area. #BreakingNews huge @OrlandoPolice presence at the corner of Garland ave and Robinson St. @OrlandoFireDept entered an OUC building. At least one person was taken to the hospital. Watch @WFTV for more. pic.twitter.com/wgeqdgbpM7 Q McCray (@QMcCrayWFTV) August 14, 2025 Online firefighter dispatch information has the incident listed as an explosion, but that has not been confirmed by law enforcement or fire officials. The Orlando Fire Department said 16 units responded to the incident, and the scene remains active. Its unclear how many people were hurt, but the Orlando Fire Department said there were medical transports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Channel 9 crews saw at least one person being transported from the scene by ambulance. The roadways are shut down to traffic in the area. SunRail said due to police activity in downtown Orlando, all trains will be stopped between AdventHealth and ORMC stations. Riders can expect delays of at least 60 minutes. Channel 9 is working to gather more information and will provide updates on Eyewitness News. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. This story covers topics of child abuse and child sexual abuse. MONTPELIER, Vt. (ABC22/FOX44) A 36-year-old Vermont man has plead guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material, according to the Attorney Generals Office. Michael Holden, formerly of Lyndonville and now living in Newport, was sentenced at Vermont Superior Court, Bennington Criminal Division Wednesday. He was specifically sentenced for two felony counts of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Burlington, Colchester Fire District 2 water conservation notice lifted, St. Johnsbury notice continues Holden will now face another one to ten years imprisonment in addition to his current sentence for previous charges. He must also register as a sex offender for life. The Attorney Generals Office reminds the public that reports of suspected child sex trafficking, enticement and more can be made online or through a 24-hour call center. Resources for those recovering from child exploitation can also be found online. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. On a humid July morning in Danville, Indiana, Graci O'Neal stepped into the show ring at the Hendricks County 4-H Fair for the last time. O'Neal has been raising and showing livestock as part of the 4-H program since she was in the third grade, and her final show was a bittersweet moment. Now, having graduating high school, O'Neal prepares to take the next steps for which she says 4-H has helped prepare her. 4-H is a nationwide youth development program that engages children in community projects across a variety of areas including STEM, agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement. O'Neal said, "It is a big organization for kids truly to find their place of belonging, whether that is in the livestock projects or joining a club or finding an indoor project to do." She also explained that while she participates in the livestock shows, 4-H offers a wide variety of avenues for kids to get involved with. She said, "I think the biggest misconception is you have to live on a farm." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement O'Neal was inspired to get involved with 4-H when she saw the relationships her older brother Chase formed with the animals. She said, "I think cattle is my favorite just because they're a bigger species. You want to be friends with this animal because you don't want them to get spooked by you ... each of them is unique in their own way." Neither of the O'Neal parents grew up with livestock, but now the family has built their own barn and expanded their fields. Two goats are permanent fixtures of the yard, wreaking havoc as the girls try to practice with their show livestock. "Whether that was adding a barn or adding another field or adding animals, whatever that may be, we just built from the ground up," O'Neal said. O'Neal doesn't participate in 4-H for the glory of showmanship. She is constantly looking to pass on her knowledge to younger participants, including her sister Emma and her cousins Mackenzie O'Neal and Madison Hoyt. The four girls spent hours together preparing for the Hendricks County 4-H Fair. O'Neal said, "I love working with other 4-Hers. I love being able to help them and be a friendly face so they're not scared to ask for help. I just want them to have the best experience they possibly can in 4-H and in livestock too." On the day of the sheep show as seven year old Madison waited to participate in the mini 4-H competition, Graci sat next to her and offered last minute advice. When Madison stepped into the show ring with her lamb for the first time, Graci was right beside her as her mentor. O'Neal said, "I've been grateful I've been able to do it with her, just being able to see her smile every time." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement O'Neal will start her freshman year at Purdue University this fall where she will study animal sciences with a concentration in pre-veterinary medicine. She said, "I would say 4-H has been a keystone in me wanting to pursue that future goal." Graci plans continue to support the 4-H program as a volunteer to share the benefits she found in 4-H with others. O' Neal said, "I feel like when I'm stepping into a new experience, something outside of 4-H, I feel like it's really helped me be able to just put my foot forward, to be able to drive straight through it." This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: '4-H has been a keystone': Moving on after a decade of livestock shows SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) Maria Morales walked into the Illinois State Fair as an immigrant. But after raising her hand and taking her oath, she left as an American in her home state. I think its a great thing for our family. We are trying to build a future for our kids now, Morales said. Maria was one of 400 people from 72 different countries who took their oath of citizenship on Wednesday. Illinois Democrats gather for Governors Day Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It takes dedication, resilience and courage. Many of you balance jobs, families and countless responsibilities while preparing for this moment, Senator Tammy Duckworth said as she addressed the crowd. Along with Duckworth the crowd was cheered on by Governor Pritzker, Representative Nikki Budzinski, and Senator Dick Durbin. But Pritzker and Budzinski reminded those listening that in 2025 the debate on immigrants and their place in society remains contentious. I know this moment comes at a time when things feel uncertain, when the idea of immigration, of becoming an American has too often been politicized, Budzinski told the crowd. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Pritzker signs Sonya Masseys law Here we are, a nation still fighting to realize our best ideals. And we need you as citizens, Pritzker said. For Maria though, the focus of was all on her family and what her new identity as an American citizen means for her son. This is one of the things that we want to reach. We want to do the same thing with my son and teach him he can reach anything. He can do anything go anywhere and have any dream, said Morales. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Around 400 D.C. National Guard members have reported for duty in the nations capital as of Wednesday afternoon in response to President Donald Trumps directive to help make Washington "safe, clean and beautiful," a U.S. Army official told Fox News. Hundreds more D.C. National Guard troops are expected to report for duty later Wednesday and Thursday, with a significantly higher presence on the ground Wednesday evening. By the end of the week, it is expected all 800 who have been activated will have reported for duty. Law enforcement officials have made 103 arrests since Aug. 7, when Trumps order to "federalize" D.C. and crack down on crime was announced and more law enforcement officers took to the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inside The Washington, Dc Homeless Hot Spots Trump Has Vowed To Clean Up Guardsmen were spotted rolling in on military vehicles near the National Mall Wednesday evening. Troops gathered at the D.C. armory before deploying near monuments and near a U.S. Park building in the crime-ridden neighborhood of Anacostia in southeast D.C. In addition to sending in the Guard, Trump placed D.C.s Metropolitan Police Department under federal control, using the Home Rule Act that allows him to do so for up to 30 days. Read On The Fox News App Members of the U.S. National Guard walk toward the D.C. Armory after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., Aug. 12, 2025. On Monday, federal and local authorities made 23 arrests , including suspects wanted for murder, gun offenses and other crimes. On Tuesday, they made 43 arrests, and 24 guns were seized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While only 30 National Guard troops were on the ground Tuesday night, more than 1,450 participated in the operations, including 750 Metropolitan Police Department officers and federal law enforcement officers. Beginning Wednesday night, the operations will be active around the clock rather than just evening hours. Guard members direct police to a staging area of the operation in Washington, D.C. Trump Activates National Guard Troops To Address Totally Out Of Control Crime In Washington The White House-led operation will not only tackle crime but also homelessness within the district. For those camping in D.C. federal parks under the National Park Service's jurisdiction, the options are to leave, go to a homeless shelter or go to jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has described the federalization of the police as "Liberation Day in D.C.," declaring, "We're going to take our capital back." Fox News' David Spunt and Fox News Digital's Emma Colton contributed to this report. Original article source: 400 National Guard members descend upon DC; expanded crime crackdown expected Wednesday night A man is dead after a shooting in Dayton on Wednesday evening. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As News Center 7 previously reported, the shooting was reported on Lombard Avenue shortly after 6:30 p.m. When they arrived on the scene, police found a 48-year-old man shot multiple times, Dayton Police Lieutenant Eric Sheldon confirmed on Thursday. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dayton police on scene told News Center 7 that a male was taken to the hospital in critical condition. An investigator with the Montgomery County Coroners Office later confirmed that they were called to Miami Valley Hospital in relation to this shooting. Sheldon confirmed the man died at the hospital. The mans identity has not been released at this time. A possible suspect was located and interviewed by detectives. Police did not confirm if the suspect was arrested or charged. While investigating, police recovered multiple pieces of evidence, including multiple handguns and casings. The shooting is under investigation by the Dayton Police Departments Homicide Unit. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] GREENE COUNTY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) If school has arrived too soon and your child doesnt have everything they need quite yet, the Greene County Health Department is offering a number of services this weekend. On August 16th, at the Greene County Fairgrounds Event Center, the health department is holding a back to school health fair. This is the 4th annaul year for the event. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., families can bring their children to the event center to check off their final back to school tasks such as physicals, vaccinations, and haircuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Greene Couty Health Department is hosting the event, but Community Health Specialist McKenzie Hollingsworth said there will be a number of health organizations on site. Greene County General Hospital will be there, Pace will be there, BloomFit out of Bloomfield will be there, Hollingsworth said. Kids can go to their tables and learn about exercise, do a demonstration with them. There is other organizations they can stop at and listen to see what they have, then theyll have prizes and different interactive games for them. The health fair will take place on August 16th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You do not need to register in advance to attend, it is open to the public. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. NAUGATUCK, Conn. (WTNH) Five people were arrested late Wednesday night after a fight at a Walmart on New Haven Road in Naugatuck, according to police. Five-year-old child found unharmed in Naugatuck According to camera footage, witnesses and one person involved, an earlier road rage incident involving the merging two lanes on New Haven Road started the argument. The drivers of both cars pulled into Walmart, where the argument became physical and escalated when other people in the cars became involved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One person was evaluated at a hospital for injuries. The following people were arrested and charged with: Rui Silva-Pita, 43, of Waterbury: misdemeanor summons charging him with second-degree breach of peace Justine Rodriguez, 21, of Waterbury: second-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace Joanna Santiago, 27, of Waterbury: third-degree assault and second-degree breach of peace Jeremy Valerio, 21, of Watertown: second-degree breach of peace Marisol Arroyo, 23, of Waterbury: second-degree breach of peace Marisol Arroyo Jeremy Valerio Joanna Santiago Justine Rodriguez Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All arrestees are scheduled to appear in court Sept. 10. A mug shot for Rui Silva-Pita was not made available by Naugatuck police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. NEED TO KNOW Five people were found dead with gunshot wounds at a home in Oregon Authorities believe Chad Behee, 40, killed Hannah Behee and her three children before taking his own life Hannah is remembered as a "loving mother" whose children were "full of life and promise." An Oregon couple and three children were found dead in what authorities believe was a murder-suicide. Sheriff's Deputies in Josephine County, Ore., responded to the home of Hannah Marie Behee, 42, on the morning of Monday, Aug. 11 after someone requested a welfare check on her when she "uncharacteristically" didn't show up for work, the Oregon State Police wrote in a statement on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities observed "suspicious conditions" around the premises of the residence on Hussey Lane in Pickett Creek, near Grants Pass in southwestern Oregon. Upon entering, sheriff's deputies and state police officers discovered five deceased victims who all appeared to have been killed with a firearm, per the statement. They included Hannah Behee and Chad Behee, 40, as well as three children: two boys, 11 and 9, and a 7-year-old girl. Authorities believe Chad killed the other members of the household before taking his own life. The State Police did not specify that the members of the household were a family, but The Oregonian identified Hannah and Chad as a couple who co-owned the property. Hannah's cousin, meanwhile, said in a GoFundMe appeal that the three children were Hannah's. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. The cousin, Michael Nadey, launched the fundraiser to help cover funeral costs. He wrote that the incident had left family and friends in "deep sorrow." "Hannah was a loving mother," wrote Nadey. "And her children were full of life and promise." Read the original article on People SWEETWATER COUNTY, WYOMING (ABC4) Five deputies and a K-9 are safe after a marine training accident on the Wyoming side of the Flaming Gorge Reservoir. According to the Sweetwater County Sheriffs Office, the incident happened at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Officials say members of the Sheriffs Office Marine Unit were conducting a joint training exercise with the K-9 Division north of Buckboard Marina. During a slow-speed controlled shore landing exercise, the vessel began taking on water, became partially submerged, and overturned. Five deputies and one K-9 were on board at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say the captain on the boat was briefly trapped inside the cab before being assisted to safety by another deputy. All other deputies who entered the water were also escorted to safety. A K-9 also rolled with the boat, but officials say it was promptly secured. READ NEXT: Boat catches fire on Flaming Gorge Reservoir All five deputies were transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation, and the K9 was taken to a veterinary clinic for evaluation. No serious injuries have been reported so far. While this incident could have been far worse, the professionalism, composure, and teamwork displayed today ensured everyones safety, Sweetwater County Sheriff John Grossnickle said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the vessel overturned, it did not sink, and efforts were underway Wednesday morning to remove it from the water. Our deputies train constantly so they can respond effectively in real-world situations. Its a timely reminder always to remain vigilant when on the water because accidents happen in an instant, even with years of experience, Deputy Jason Mower added. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is investigating the incident. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. CLARENDON, Ark. Five Monroe County inmates are facing a murder charge in connection to the death of another inmate who was killed the same day he was booked into the jail. Arkansas State Police said 38-year-old Gregory Otis, 26-year-old Typaris Johnson, 31-year-old Antonio Aldridge, 28-year-old Reko Branscomb and 18-year-old Carmello Hawkins are facing charges for their involvement in the death of 44-year-old Terry Craig. Monroe County jail inmate believed to be killed by other inmates after booking Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Aug. 8, staff at the jail said they found Craig injured in his cell shortly after being booked on charges of possession of child sexual abuse materials and possession of a firearm by certain persons. Craig was taken to a hospital, where he later died. In addition to a first-degree murder charge, the inmates are also facing charges of first-degree battery and engaging in violent criminal group activity. All five suspects remain in custody on a $3 million bond. Their first court appearance is set for Tuesday, 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 KARK. NEED TO KNOW A van carrying 10 Amish community members was struck by a pickup truck carrying three occupants on Tuesday, Aug. 13, in Gilford Township, Mich. Multiple passengers were ejected from both vehicles Six people were killed, while another three were hospitalized At least six people died in a collision between a pickup truck and a van in Gilford Township, Mich., on Tuesday, Aug. 13, per the Tuscola County Sheriff's Office news release. Authorities received a call at 4:44 p.m. local time that a pickup truck had struck a van carrying an Amish family. The truck was driving south on Vassar and ran a stop sign while the van was traveling westbound on highway M-138. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were three occupants in the pickup truck, while the van had 10 people. Once the vehicles collided, multiple passengers were ejected from both vehicles. Six people were killed, five of whom were in the van and one was in the truck, local ABC affiliate WJRT reported. Three other people were hospitalized. No ones identity has been revealed. However, WJRT reports that the deceased pickup truck passenger was 44, and the Amish victims were mostly in their 60s. "With this particular case we are dealing with, people don't have IDs or don't carry IDs," Tuscola County Undersheriff Bob Baxter said, per WJRT. Getty Stock image of emergency lights on a police car Stock image of emergency lights on a police car "Scenes like that are pretty chaotic at first," Baxter said, noting that the investigation is still ongoing. "We are still trying to determine identities, as well drivers, where people were sitting." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Please keep those affected by this tragedy in your thoughts," the sheriff's office said. "These incidents are preventable and people need to slow down and obey traffic laws." Rita Hanby, a woman who provides car rides for the Amish with her husband, told WJRT, "It's just a tragedy, a sad tragedy for this community. Hanby explained that she will drive those who request, which is usually when it's farther than the horse would take them. "My husband and I are both retired. We enjoy these people, they are our friends, she said. "They are some of the most generous, caring people you would ever meet." 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 representative for the Tuscola County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for more information on Wednesday. Read the original article on People Aug. 13 (UPI) -- The Amish community in Michigan is in mourning after seven died on the same day in two separate crashes 86 miles apart in the central part of the state. In Tuscola County, six Amish died when a driver ran a stop sign and the truck t-boned the van with 10 occupants in a crash reported at 4:45 p.m. EDT Tuesday. About 30 minutes later in Montcalm County, which is directly east of Tuscola County, a 4-month-old girl died after a driver crashed into a buggy while trying to pass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tuscola County Sheriff's Office said the van was traveling west on M-138 when it was struck by the truck traveling south. Several passengers were ejected with three others in the van hospitalized. The truck had three occupants, with one person dying, WJRT-TV in Flint reported. "They had a paid driver in the van," Undersheriff Robert Baxter told The Detroit News on Wednesday. "I'm not sure where they were headed or where they were coming from. They're county residents." Amish generally don't drive, and instead travel in horse and buggy. Families often hire van drivers for longer distances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not uncommon for Amish families to hire a non-Amish driver (who owns a van) to transport them places that are further than buggy-driving distance," Steven M. Nolt, professor of History and Anabaptist Studies at Elizabethtown College in Elizabethtown, Pa., told the newspaper. "This might be a trip to a doctor's office 30 miles away from their home or it might be an interstate trip of hundreds of miles." In the second crash, reported at 5:19 p.m., a pickup traveling east attempted to pass a buggy occupied by seven Amish family members. The truck driver, noticing an oncoming vehicle, attempted to swerve back into the right lane and struck the buggy, Michigan State Police reported. Five children, all under 5, and a 24-year-old woman were taken to a hospital. The 4-month-old child died. On Wednesday, two children were released, the mother and a 1-year-old girl were in stable condition, and a 2-year-old boy was listed in critical condition. A man in the buggy and the pickup driver had minor injuries. The horse pulling the buggy was euthanized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Amish ... community will band together," Kevin Williams, who writes a syndicated Amish newspaper column, told The Detroit News. "There will be very large funerals that will draw thousands, many coming from states away to pay their respects. "The Amish will lean heavily on their faith and view the accident as God's will. Their grief is tempered by their faith." Several Amish have been involved in other crashes in the state. Last week, six Amish were hurt when an SUV crashed into a horse-drawn buggy in southwest Michigan. On the Fourth of July, a 22-year-old woman and a 16-year-old boy in a buggy were injured when a man crashed into them in the Central Lower Peninsula. The man was arrested on a drunken-driving charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, a crash between a vehicle and a horse-drawn buggy killed an 8-year-old girl and seriously injured a 12-year-old boy in southwest Michigan. The Amish community in Michigan, which is estimated at 18,000, is spread in 52 settlements from Hillsdale and Branch County in the south to several in the Upper Peninsula, according to Amish America. The first Amish settled in the state in 1895. In North America, there are an estimated 411,060 Amish with a presence in 32 states, including 61% in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana, and three Canadian provinces, according to the Amish Studies' Young Center at Elizabeth College. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Seven people were arrested Monday on a variety of charges after detectives and SWAT officers executed a narcotics search warrant in Bullhead City, Arizona. Detectives with the Bullhead City Police Department seized methamphetamine, fentanyl pills, a small amount of psilocybin mushrooms and drug paraphernalia in the search at a residence in the 1300 block of Palma Plaza, just west of U.S. 95 as it becomes the main north-south road. Complaints about the residence and information about drugs and other criminal activity there led police to seek the warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said drugs were within the reach of an 8-year-old special needs child in the home. Ashley Anne Skinner, 45, Christopher Philip Kassing, 48, and Justin Todd Maxwell, 44, were arrested on charges of possession of dangerous drugs and drug paraphernalia. Skinner and Kassing were additionally charged with child abuse. Lanie Leann Grant, 24, and James Martin Ferguson, 65, were arrested on charges of possession of narcotic drugs and drug paraphernalia. David Justin Papineau, 38, was arrested on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Lindsay Rae Mazanowski, 44, was arrested on a warrant out of Kingman Justice Court and Maxwell was arrested for a failure to appear warrant out of Bullhead City Municipal Court. Grant had a drug paraphernalia warrant out of Bullhead City Justice Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All seven were booked into the Mohave County Jail in Kingman. Papineau was cited and released from the police station. Bullhead Citys Mohave Area General Narcotic Enforcement Team (MAGNET) worked the case. Bullhead City is about 100 miles south of Las Vegas, across the Colorado River from Laughlin. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. A 78-year-old man is charged with 13 crimes related to a shooting at a senior living apartment building on Detroit's east side that injured three people, ending with him being shot by an ex-girlfriend. James Albert Britton of Detroit is charged with four counts of assault with intent to murder and nine weapon offenses, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced Thursday, August 14. Detroit police said the incident began when Britton allegedly took issue with loud music at an evening barbecue behind the senior living apartments on Monday, August 11, in the 7500 block of Jefferson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He told them if they didn't stop making a noise, he was going to come down and take care of them," Deputy Chief Arnold Williams of Detroit Police had said in a recorded video at the scene. After a verbal altercation between Britton and a 65-year-old man escalated, Worthy said the suspect fired a gun several times. That victim was grazed in the cheek. Two others were who had nothing to do with the fight were also hit: A 64-year-old man was shot in the right armpit and abdomen and a 70-year-old woman was shot in her left ankle. The 65-year-old victim ultimately tackled Britton, forcing his gun to fall on the ground, Worthy said. A 62-year-old woman who was in a relationship with Britton that ended last year, police said picked up the gun and shot him in the left thigh. More: Cause of death under investigation for 2 people with Legionnaires' disease in Dearborn Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Detroit councilmember wants action after senior citizen shooting "This is a shooting that is so ridiculous in nature that you can't even explain it," Williams previously said. "People can't resolve common issues. You don't have to resort to a gun because somebody is playing loud music. It's just irrational. ... When you're in your 70s, this should not be what's going on." The shooting prompted Councilmember At-Large Mary Waters to push for action. Waters said she would "immediately" work with Detroit's health and police departments to address gun violence and the trauma it carries at the city's senior living homes, she said in a news release. That includes sending conflict resolution teams to what Waters described as "high priority living facilities." Her office said she intents on setting up work sessions with city officials regarding the issue and will announce the first meeting within a week or less. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Britton was arraigned Thursday morning in 36th District Court, where Magistrate William Burton Jr. gave him a $500,000 cash or surety bond with a GPS tether and house arrest. An attorney for Burton wasn't listed in online court documents as of Thursday afternoon. Andrea Sahouri covers criminal justice for the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at asahouri@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 78-year-old man charged in Detroit senior living apartment shooting NEED TO KNOW A 79-year-old Norwegian Cruise Line passenger reportedly went overboard on Aug. 12 The incident occurred while the Norwegian Star was sailing in the waters off Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada on its way to Greenland According to the National Weather Service, due to water temperatures, individuals without the proper protective equipment would lose dexterity in 10 to 15 minutes A 79-year-old passenger went overboard on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship this week. The Norwegian Star was sailing en route to Greenland in the early morning of Tuesday, Aug. 12. While in the waters off Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, passengers reportedly received a Code Oscar announcement. The signal is used to alert crew to a man overboard, per Marine Insight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were woken this morning by a Code Oscar announcement, which means someone has gone overboard, a Reddit user wrote in the Norwegian Cruise Line forum on Aug. 12. Several people in our sailings [Facebook] group saw lifeboats being lowered, and one saw the person being recovered. On TikTok, user Kacie de Leon said her parents heard the alert while they were sailing on the ship. They got an alert at 3 a.m. this morning that is called a Code Oscar, she said in the Aug. 12 video. My dad just wanted me to know that they were okay. No news on if the person has been found or not. Getty The Newfoundland Coast, Canada The Newfoundland Coast, Canada https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement shared with cruise news outlets Cruise Hive and Cruise Radio.Net, Norwegian confirmed a man went overboard. We are deeply saddened to confirm that one of our guests, a 79-year-old male, was reported to have gone overboard while the ship was sailing to Greenland. The appropriate authorities have been contacted and an investigation is ongoing, the statement said. The company added: In consideration for the family and their privacy, updates will be shared as appropriate. Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests loved ones during this difficult time. The company did not share the current status of the passenger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Representatives for Norwegian Cruise Line did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. According to SeaTemperature.org which uses data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the average August sea temperature in the region is 57 degrees Fahrenheit. At that temperature, individuals would lose dexterity within 10 to 15 minutes if not wearing the proper protective equipment, per the National Weather Service. Cruise lines often use codes on board to communicate different kinds of emergencies to thew crew without alarming passengers. These call signs can vary between various companies, but per the Chicago Tribune, "Oscar" for man overboard is also used across the Royal Caribbean Cruises brands, which includes Celebrity and Silverseas. The outlet also reported that on Royal Caribbean ships, Alpha is a medical emergency, Bravo is a fire, and Echo" means the ship is drifting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Last month, a crew member on board Royal Caribbeans Icon of the Seas died after going overboard on July 24. A representative for the cruise line confirmed the mans death in a statement to PEOPLE and said, Our crew immediately initiated a search and rescue operation, but unfortunately the crew member passed away. They added: We extend our condolences to the crew members family and loved ones. To respect their privacy, we have no additional details to share. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox affiliate WSVN reported the employee went overboard around 7 p.m. local time while the ship was en route to the Bahamas. The outlet reported a rescue boat was deployed to help the man, who was pulled from the sea onto a dinghy, but did not survive. In June, a father and daughter sailing on a Disney Cruise Lines ship were rescued after the girl fell overboard and her dad jumped in after her to try and save her. Read the original article on People LETTERS: Why take the train?; more on the wolves PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) On Saturday, Sept. 6, the 850 Heroes 4Heroes will host a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb in support of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Abel Albrittton, one of the events organizers, says that their goal is to bring the community together and honor our heroes while raising awareness. The climb will begin with registration at 8 a.m., and the ceremony will start at 9 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will take place at the Edgewater Beach Resort in Tower One in Panama City Beach. To learn more or figure out how you can help, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A fire ignited at an abandoned building in Salt Lake City early Thursday morning, the locations second in two weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second fire within two weeks at an abandoned building in Salt Lake City. (Courtesy//Blake W.) The fires ignited in a building formerly known as the Dream Inn hotel, located near 1800 West and North Temple, according to Salt Lake City Fire Department. Fire crews say they were able to quickly extinguish the fire and reported no injuries. This marks the second fire at the location within two weeks. The causes of both fires are still under investigation. ABC4.com has reached out and is waiting for additional information. Salt Lake City firefighters rescue several people in early morning abandoned building fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement West Temple is now open. The first fire occurred around 4 a.m. on Aug, 2. Firefighters with SLCFD arrived to find a large fire that took about an hour to extinguish. Three to four people were rescued from the fire with no reported injuries. Fire officials advise the public to report any activity happening in abandoned buildings by calling the Salt Lake City Police non-emergency line at 801-799-3000 or through the mySLC app. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) Abilene city council members are supporting adopting an ordinance that would prohibit BYOB businesses from operating between the hours of 2:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. During Thursdays city council meeting, council members unanimously voted to move forward with the time restriction for all BYOB businesses in city limits. They declined, however, to move forward with additional parts of the proposed ordinance that would have implemented punishments for businesses with crimes committed at their establishments, such as the requirements for permits and heightened security. The ordinance was initially proposed as a response to repeated acts of violence, including multiple shootings and a murder, at a BYOB venue and hookah bar on N 6th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abilene police taking layered approach to protecting public from threats at hookah lounge. I still want us to do something. I want the police to have the tools they need at two in the morning to deal with some of these places that are doing this, councilman Lynn Beard explains. The proposed BYOB ordinance will be revisited during upcoming Abilene 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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) An Abilene man accused of shooting at officers during a SWAT standoff Wednesday evening is now facing more than a dozen felony charges. Austin Heuermann was arrested following the hours-long standoff on the 2200 block of Bel Air Street and has been charged with 11 counts of Aggravated Assault on a Public Servant, as well as Possession of Firearm by Felon, Evading Arrest, and a warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine. Police say officers arrived at the home around 5:00 p.m. to arrest Heuermann on the Methamphetamine warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While officers were getting other people out of the residence, Heuermann allegedly fired a shot from inside, initiating the standoff. Heavy police presence in northwest Abilene neighborhood Around 6:00 p.m., police say Heuermann fired a shot at the SWAT team, damaging the windshield of their armored vehicle. Heuermann was finally taken into custody after 2 hours of negotiations and no injuries were reported in connection to the standoff. Heuermann now remains held in the Taylor County Jail on bonds totaling more than $600,000. 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 KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) The Abilene rental market continues to dry up for incoming college students, new hires, and any other residents hoping to find a place to hang their hat on key city soil. Available units at apartment complexes are in steady decline, and as demand skyrockets, prices are following suit. Abilene Couple, Cyra Polk and Azahriah Ellis, are preparing to return to Abilene Christian University. The pair took time to celebrate and speak with KTAB/KRBC as they were loading up a moving van on Wednesday, finally moving to a new complex in town after seven months of searching and rejection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats kept yall searching so long? asked KTAB/KRBC. Theres just nowhere to go, Polk responded. Most apartment complexes either were full or they didnt know if they would have any available apartments when we were planning on movingThere was a point where we just took a month break. We were just like, Yknow what? Were just gonna take a break because this is too much, Said Ellis. RELATED COVERAGE: The waitlists have been huge: Abilenes booming development contributing to decline in available housing Their new place is a bit more expensive than they had hoped to find, but it is in a much better location for both of them. Still, that search began in January. Ellis and Polks stroke of good luck in finding a new place serves as an outlier in this equation. KTAB/KRBC spoke with a local Real Estate Professional who has years of experience in the Abilene Rental and Real Estate markets. She asked to remain anonymous to protect her professional identity. For the purposes of this story, she will be referred to as Jane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt have a huge housing market to begin with. We were already struggling And whats happening is the people for the Data Center are coming in. Theyre flooding the marketRental prices are increasing like every monthAnd I understand its just for four years, but thats four years of housing that people who actually reside here wont be able to find housing, Jane said. Vehicles leave the Lancium A.I. Data Center Campus in Abilene on Wednesday evening The Data Center to which Jane is referring is the Lancium AI Data Center, which has brought in thousands of temporary workers from around the country for construction work over the next four years. Jane asserts that the increased demand for these temporary workers, combined with the unpreparedness of the rental market for such an influx, is the main contributing factor to Abilenes increased rent prices and rapidly dwindling availability. Theres really no solution to it because this is just a temporary thing. The workers will go away eventually, and then well have too many units to rent. So we just kind of have to deal with it in the interim. Landlords are doing a great job. Theyre trying to find places for people to go. Theyre advertising any units they haveThe problem is that for the people who live here, they will work here. The wages in Abilene dont match what the rent is, said Jane. And she is not the only one who has taken notice of this trend. Just three months ago, the website Furnished Finder published an article highlighting the key takeaways from a recent web seminar on 2025 U.S. housing market insights. In that article, Silicon Valley, California, Portland, Maine, and Abilene, Texas are listed among the top regions in the nation in which tenant demand is quickly outpacing the supply of available rental units. Jane expressed uncertainty about whether prices will start to decline after the temporary workers leave in four years, though she noted that there is a possibility. However, she believes it is highly unlikely that rental prices in Abilene will ever revert to the levels seen just a few years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. An accessible hotel in Jersey has been granted a licence allowing it to host weddings. Maison des Landes in St Ouen's has 23 rooms for people with disabilities and their carers. General manager Steve Martin said the hotel would be open to anyone looking for a wedding venue and bookings could begin from September. Suzanne Day, support service manager at disability charity Enable Jersey, said the move would make a "positive difference" for people planning their weddings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Whether living with a disability themselves or trying to find a venue that provides facilities for friends and family members, couples now have not just an accessible option, but a beautiful location for their wedding day," said Mrs Day. "We know that not all wedding venues in Jersey offer accessible facilities therefore this is such a step forward, not just for our Jersey community but those who may wish to come to Jersey to get married." General Manager Steve Martin said guests suggested the hotel would make a great wedding venue [BBC] Mr Martin said the hotel applied for the wedding venue license following encouragement from guests. "People started to ask, 'wouldn't it be a great wedding venue, have you thought about doing weddings? Have you thought about opening up to the public for other things?'," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So we've applied for a wedding licence and luckily we've been granted it by the Registrar and the Constable." Mr Martin said the plan was for people to be able to hire the whole hotel. "Obviously we can't really do weddings May to September when it's very busy and the hotel's very active," he said. "The plan is to maybe start doing weddings the other six months of the year and see how it goes from there." The hotel said it was working with an events company to organise the ceremonies while it provided the venue. Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. More on this story Related internet links (NewsNation) Imagine youre the mother of a daughter who was fatally shot, and you watch her accused killer let out of jail to attend a funeral for their family member? Alacia Ford-Barron knows. Ford-Barrons daughter, Myrah Zeigler, was allegedly killed by 19-year-old Larry Smith. Smith was granted temporary release by a judge for the funeral of his father, much to the dismay of Ford-Barron and the Florida State Attorneys Office. Ford-Barron told Banfield on Wednesday that she feels the decision was a slap in my face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bryan Kohberger called mother, father after killings in Idaho For this young man to take my daughters life and just freely walk out of jail to be able to hug his mother, to be able to hug his family, to be able to sit in his bed, to be able to breathe the air that my daughter would not be able to breathe. Ford-Barron added, I cant go to her grave. I cant pick her out and say, Hey, let me spend time with my daughter today and take her back. How can you let a killer out? An accused killer out? How? No supervision. Ford-Barron was given no prior notice of Smiths release Ford-Barron says she was notified that Smith was permitted to go to the occasion, a day after the judge had already made the decision. Asked if she was consulted on the process, Ford-Barron resoundingly said no. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I ended up calling the victim advocate after I got off the phone with the detective, and the victim advocate told me she was going to call me. Ezekiel Kelly, man accused in deadly 2022 livestreamed shooting spree, pleads guilty And when she did talk to me, she did tell me that he was going in for a forlough, but I had no clue about it. Because if I did, I would have been there that day to say what I needed to say to stop him. Former judge disappointed in Smith decision Tarlika Nunez-Navarro, a former judge in Broward County, says she feels for Ford-Barron, but is even more upset because the decision was made in her former jurisdiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was surprised, and I was extremely disappointed to see it happened in the county I sat in, Nunez-Navarro said. These are my colleagues. I would never talk poorly about them, but I do question this decision. Smith is awaiting trial and has been denied bail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Ritz-Carlton's first safari lodge opens on Friday in Kenya's Maasai Mara reserve, offering tented suites with private decks overlooking migrating wildebeest from $3,500 per person. However, a director of a Maasai conservation institute and researchers say the true cost of these sublime views will be far higher, risking significant damage to one of the world's most renowned ecosystems. On Tuesday, Meitamei Olol Dapash from the Institute for Maasai Education, Research and Conservation (MERC) filed a lawsuit in a Kenyan court against Ritz-Carlton, its owner Marriott, the project's local developer Lazizi Mara Limited and Kenyan authorities to try to block the scheduled opening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dapash alleges in the lawsuit that the 20-suite camp, which boasts plunge pools and personalised butler service, obstructs a crucial migration corridor between the Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti. Researchers say migration allows wildebeest to find food and maintain genetic diversity among herds. The lawsuit also says there is no evidence that an environmental impact assessment was conducted. Dapash's lawyers asked the Environment and Land Court in Narok to suspend the lodge's opening and hear the case on a priority basis. Meitamei Olol Dapash from the Institute for Maasai Education, Research and Conservation (MERC) (Reuters) Marriott, which entered into a franchise agreement with Lazizi, said in a statement it was committed to respecting the environment and that Lazizi had obtained all necessary approvals. Lazizi's managing director, Shivan Patel, said Kenyan authorities conducted an environmental impact assessment, which had established that the site was not a wildlife crossing point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Narok County government and National Environment Management Authority, which are also named as respondents in the lawsuit, did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. The dispute is the latest flashpoint in East Africa's grasslands between luxury tourism and Maasai herders who say that the sector's development is harming their habitats and ways of life. Researchers say migration allows wildebeest to find food and maintain genetic diversity among herds (Reuters) In Kenya, local communities have complained about what they say are land grabs by wealthy investors. In Tanzania, protests against the eviction of tens of thousands of Maasai to make way for hunting lodges have led to deadly clashes with police. Dapash, who founded MERC in 1997 as a grassroots network of Maasai leaders, said the Ritz-Carlton's development was the latest in a long list of lucrative tourism projects that government officials have green-lighted at the expense of local wildlife and people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Without the county government regulating the tourist behaviours, the tourist activities, we saw the habitat, the environment degraded so badly," he told Reuters. County officials have acknowledged that over-tourism has harmed Maasai Mara's natural environment but have said that focusing on "high-value tourism" can help address this by bringing in more money at less environmental cost. Migration path Announcing the new Ritz-Carlton in February, Marriott said it would offer a "front-row seat" to the annual Great Migration of millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles. The lodge lies along the Sand River, an important water source for animals from elephants to birds, that snakes back and forth across the border between Kenya and Tanzania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hotel staff declined to let Reuters reporters enter the property. Dapash, who is a PhD candidate in sustainability education at Prescott College in the United States and has run unsuccessfully for parliament several times, said the lodge sits on a wildebeest crossing point well-known to locals. Rangers and visitors stand at the Talek gate in the Maasai Mara game reserve (Reuters) Joseph Ogutu, a Kenyan researcher at the University of Hohenheim in Germany who has studied wildlife migration in Maasai Mara, said the new construction would deal a further blow to fauna in the reserve. Many species' populations in the reserve have shrunk by over 80 per cent since the 1970s, according to Kenyan government data. "It is highly ill-advised to build a lodge on one of the most critical paths of the Great Migration," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grant Hopcraft, an ecologist at the University of Glasgow, said the project would "likely have large and long-term ecological implications for the migration". Neither Hopcraft nor Ogutu is a party to the lawsuit. Lazizi's Patel said it was the county government that proposed the site to him. And he questioned why Dapash had only started raising objections to the project in recent weeks. "The project has been ongoing for a year," he said. "We pushed it so hard to ... avoid any disruption, damage to the environment." Dapash said he only learned of the project in May because it is far from the main population centre. Dapash said he only learned of the project in May (Reuters) The lawsuit questions whether a required environmental impact assessment was ever conducted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Kenyan law, the National Environment Management Authority must publish a summary of the assessment in the official gazette, indicating where it may be inspected. Reuters could not find any such notice in the official gazette. Patel said he could not share the assessment for confidentiality reasons and referred Reuters to NEMA. NEMA did not respond to requests for comment. The lawsuit also says the project violated a management plan for Maasai Mara adopted by the Narok County government in February 2023, which calls for "no new tourism accommodation developments" before 2032. Patel disputed this, saying the project was built at an "existing" site that had already been in use for many years. He did not say how it had been used. Narok County did not respond to requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dapash said the public needed answers. "The preservation of wildlife migration for us is a treasure that we cannot afford to lose," he said. "We need to see that due diligence was done." The population of Disneyland's It's a Small World ride unexpectedly increased in early August when activists left an eye-catching doll along the mechanical river. The out-of-place figure was covered in ash and holding a sign that reads "remember Hiroshima." In honor of the 80th anniversary of The United Stated bombing Hiroshima, Japan during World War II, Ben Cohen of Ben and Jerry's fame and his Up In Arms Campaign organized this guerrilla protest at the California theme park. The prop was removed shortly after the stunt took place, but not before going viral online. View the original article to see embedded media. The doll was placed near the Japan section of the children's ride at Disneyland, meant to draw attraction to anti-war positions both past and present. "The dolls placement in a ride built around childhood innocence was deliberate," read Cohen's Instagram post detailing his work with the doll, "war is killing children." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protest organizer Sarah Donze explained further in an interview with SFGate. "We thought that the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima was a good opportunity to draw attention to the fact that the US government is planning to spend $2 trillion on nuclear weapons when we already have a nuclear arsenal big enough to blow up the world many times over," she said. Data from the Center for Arms Control shows that the United States could spend up to 2 trillion dollars on nuclear weapon modernization over the next 30 years. "We believe the plan to build more nuclear weapons proves that we really have forgotten what happened in Hiroshima, Donze tells SFGate. ANAHEIM, CALIF. -- THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2015: An exterior view of "It's a Small World" ride decorated for the holiday season during the Star Wars Season of The Force at Disneyland on November 12, 2015 in Anaheim, California.(Photo by Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Allen J. Schaben/Getty Images What is Hiroshima? Hiroshima is a city in southern Japan that was decimated when the United States dropped two atomic bombs during World War II. The city was the first target of a nuclear strike in history, followed by Nagasaki just a few days later. The bombing killed an estimated 140,00 people. The city is habitable and safe to live in today, 80 years after the 1945 bombing. In 2023, the G7 summit was held in Hiroshima. Related: Disney Is Shutting Down the Hulu App. Heres Everything You Need to Know Activists Leave Eerie Doll Inside Disney's It's a Small World Ride first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025 DENVER (KDVR) A child under the age of five is hospitalized with measles after traveling to Chihuahua, Mexico, where there is an active outbreak. Colorado health officials announced the case on Wednesday, and said the child, who is from Adams County, had not received the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. Trump administration drops dozens of vaccine research projects The MMR vaccine is widely considered the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from the disease, as Colorado Public Department of Health and Environment officials say that two doses of the vaccine are about 97% effective in preventing measles. The virus is highly contagious. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a single exposure location currently known from this case, which is: Location Date/time When symptoms may develop Childrens Hospital Colorado Emergency Department 13123 E. 16th Ave. Aurora, CO 80045 Tuesday, Aug. 12 6:36 p.m. 10:16 p.m. Through Sept. 2 Measles symptoms can take up to 21 days to present after exposure, and anyone who may have been exposed should monitor for symptoms and avoid public gatherings or high-risk settings. If you do start to present symptoms of measles, which include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a characteristic rash that usually starts several days later on the face and spreads. If you were at one of the exposure locations, immediately contact a health care provider by phone. If you do not have a provider, contact urgent care or an emergency department and explain your exposure to measles. CDPHE told FOX31 in February that prior to 2025, the last confirmed case of measles in the state was reported in December 2023, and that most of the time, measles cases occur in Colorado after travel or in under-vaccinated communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far in 2025, there have been at least 17 cases of measles reported in Colorado. The most recent case was reported to have been an out-of-state visitor in Chaffee County in late July. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. NEW YORK New York City Mayor Eric Adams plans to stick with his fraught reelection bid to the very end, telling POLITICO in the strongest terms yet that he will not drop out of the race to stop front-runner Zohran Mamdani. Adams is polling at 7 percent, trailing not only Mamdani but fellow independent Andrew Cuomo and GOP nominee Curtis Sliwa. His approval ratings show a deeply unpopular incumbent who has lost vast swaths of his multiethnic base the same voters who propelled him to victory in 2021. And he is being haunted by a city election board accusing him of wrongdoing and prosecutors pursuing criminal convictions against some of his former aides. In a wide-ranging interview, Adams touched on why he intends to remain in the race until the end, his own fears of a Mamdani or Cuomo mayoralty and the now-dismissed federal indictment against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there were people running for mayor that I believe would continue the progress of our city, thats an easy call, Adams said during a sitdown at Gracie Mansion. The people who are running they are harmful to our city and the progress weve made. And I owe it to New Yorkers to get my story out to them and to run a campaign. When asked which candidate Mamdani or Cuomo he thought would be worse for the city, the mayor could not choose. Both of them are extremely problematic, he said. At the moment, the mayor does not have a clear path to victory. If he remains in play, though, he could very well impact the outcome of the race, drawing votes away from Cuomo and easing the way for Mamdani, a democratic socialist who has inspired fear among the citys moneyed elites. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani bested Cuomo by 16 points in a July poll. And the incumbent has proven to be an energetic and dynamic campaigner who stands to make things increasingly difficult for the former governor. Three months out from Election Day, the mayors determination to clear his name with New Yorkers and cement his legacy in the process is proving to be a boon for Mamdani, the candidate whose politics are furthest from Adams conservative Democratic values. While Mamdani has energized the left and younger voters, hes also inspired something akin to existential dread among the citys business class, conservatives and moderate Democrats, who respectively fear hell tank the citys financial outlook, oversee a spike in crime and give Republicans a ready foil during next years midterm elections. History is going to be kind to me when I'm out of the political spotlight 10, 15 years from now, and they look over and say: You know what? We got to give this guy his due, Adams said. That's what I'm fighting for. So far, the fight has been lopsided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayors competitors to the extent they focus on Adams instead of each other paint him as an executive beholden to President Donald Trump, whose Department of Justice successfully moved to dismiss the incumbents five-count bribery case this spring. The mayor maintains he did nothing wrong though the cases dismissal prompted a mass upheaval at DOJ and turned the tables on his competitors: Mamdani in particular has been outspoken in his opposition to the policies being carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement a position Adams said will make it harder to cooperate with federal authorities on a wider range of public safety investigations. You cant let your emotions get in the way of those collaborations, Adams said. Weve made it clear to ICE: Were not going to collaborate with anything thats dealing with civil enforcement, but if you guys want to take dangerous people off the streets, particularly dangerous gangs, we want to coordinate. Adams said his administration set up a daily 10 a.m. meeting between the NYPD, district attorneys and a host of federal authorities including the FBI a confab he cited as key to a recent arrest of 27 alleged members of Tren de Aragua, an international gang that has attracted national headlines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont know how theyre going to be able to ensure that we deal with some of the international terrorism, the international issues, he added, referring to Mamdani and Cuomo. How do we do that to keep the city safe which we are a target if were not collaborating with the White House and with our partners? Mamdanis team pushed back against the mayors characterization. Zohran has made it crystal clear that while he will work with the federal government when its to the benefit of New Yorkers, he will never bow down to Trumps authoritarian attacks, Mamdani spokesperson Dora Pekec said in a statement. Cuomo who reportedly had a personal phone call with the president about the race, though he has denied the exchange took place has said he would similarly balance collaboration and resistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the first Trump administration, the governor worked with the federal government when it wanted to help New York and stood up to defend New York when the Trump administration sought to hurt it, Cuomo spokesperson Rich Azzopardi said in a statement. No one has a longer or stronger record of that than the governor. The mayor, I believe, was spending a lot of time in Turkey back then and may have missed it. Adams criminal case was dismissed April 2. A federal judge did not make any determination about the mayors innocence or guilt but said the ordeal smacked of a bargain between Adams and Trumps DOJ. Regardless, elements of the accusations have continued to dog the mayors campaign. The New York City Campaign Finance Board has previously cited the indictment and its allegations of a straw donation scheme involving Turkish interests as among the reasons it has repeatedly blocked Adams from receiving around $3.5 million in public matching funds. Adams has denied those accusations. As POLITICO reported Tuesday, Adams said he is working to obviate the CFBs determination by raising additional private funds and suggested his campaign would sue over the issue for a second time. If the courts decide we have a right to get the matching funds, well get them, Adams said. If they don't, I have to raise the money based on that. And that's what I'm going to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, state and federal prosecutors are pursuing cases against ousted Adams aides one of whom has pleaded not guilty in a conspiracy, bribery and money laundering case and another who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud Tuesday. Those cases harken back to the mayors own legal troubles When you read about it over and over again, it has an impact on voters, he said. And that's why I have to get out and tell the story. I couldn't tell it for 15 months, the number one thing that is in my defense, I tell people: read the indictment. Federal prosecutors accused the mayor of accepting travel perks and straw donations in exchange for inquiring after the status of a fire safety inspection at a Midtown skyscraper owned by the Turkish government. Adams argued the complaint contains no evidence linking him to wrongdoing. After the dismissal, Adams characterized the case as a political hit job carried out by deep state actors in the federal government as punishment for speaking out against former President Joe Bidens immigration policies during an election year. That accusation is undercut by several elements of the case, though. The mayor has also talked about a permanent government on the local level that has undermined pieces of his agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now imagine [a city employee working for 35 years], how many mayors have you seen? Youve gone through mayors and you already know that mayors are going to come and go, so if they are irritated that you are asking me to do something that I don't like, or you are asking me to do something that's going to hurt someone that I have a relationship in politics, there are ways to tie you up, Adams said. And I was surprised at the depth of it. Moving or firing city employees who he found problematic, Adams said, was more difficult than it seemed. If you were to tell a person your services are no longer needed, some of them are long-term civil service union employees. There's a whole process, Adams said. If you want to reassign, you open yourself up to lawsuits. It's unfortunate that a lot of these actions get in the way of producing for our city. And that is probably one of the biggest barriers to move the cities forward. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich holds a map of an area near the settlement of Maale Adumim, a land corridor known as E1, outside Jerusalem in the occupied West Bank, on Aug. 14, 2025, after a press conference. Credit - Menahem KahanaGetty Images Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has announced his plan to build more than 3,000 new housing units as part of a settlement project in the occupied West Bank. The far-right politician says the construction will bury the idea of a Palestinian state. They will talk about a Palestinian dream, and we will continue to build a Jewish reality, said Smotrich during a press conference on Thursday. This reality is what will permanently bury the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing to recognize and no one to recognize. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has yet to make a statement regarding the settlement plan. TIME has reached out to his office for comment. Smotrichs construction goalwhich is set to face a final approval hearing by the Higher Planning Council next weeksees the revival of the widely-critiqued E1 project worked on by Jerusalem officials and the Maale Adumim settlement. The project, which has been on ice for decades due to international concerns, effectively isolates the territory by cutting off the West Bank from East Jerusalem. Critics have condemned the advancement of the plan, citing fears that this split would prove detrimental to any possibility of a Palestinian state in the future. Israeli advocacy group Peace Now warned that the governments annexation moves are guaranteeing many more years of bloodshed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The E1 plan is deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution. We are standing at the edge of an abyss, and the government is driving us forward at full speed, the group said in an online statement. There is a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to the terrible war in Gazathe establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israeland it will ultimately come. Read More: The Violent Gaza-ification of the West Bank The West Bank is defined by the United Nations as under Israeli military occupation. Smotrich is a long-time proponent of expanding Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which are widely considered to be in violation of international law. Smotrich has been administered with sanctions by the U.K. and others after being accused of inciting violence against Palestinians in the territory. Smotrichs settlement plans come as the international spotlight on Israel intensifies, with growing calls for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war amid mass concerns over the ongoing malnutrition crisis in Gaza and backlash over Netanyahus plan to fully occupy the Gaza Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A number of countries have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state, should Israel not meet certain conditions. In July, U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the U.K. would formally recognize a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September, unless Israel implements a cease-fire and commits to a two-state solution. France, Australia, and Canada are among the countries that have made similar statements. People disperse as Israeli tanks enter the Jenin camp for refugees in the West Bank, on Feb. 23, 2025. Jaafar AshtiyehGetty Images Read More: Israeli Settler Violence Escalates in the West Bank After Death of Palestinian-American Reports of escalating violence in the West Bank, specifically Israeli settler attacks, are also causing global concern. According to an Aug. 7 report by the United Nations, between July 29 and Aug. 4, two Palestinian adults were killed in the West Bank, one by Israeli forces and the other by an armed settler. Within that same timeframe, at least 57 Palestinians, including 11 children, were injured, the majority by Israeli forces and 14 by Israeli settlers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been heightened tensions in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, which was triggered after Hamas launched a terror attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing over 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Over 61,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the war, according to Gazas Health Ministry. In the absence of independent monitoring on the ground, the ministry is the primary source for casualty data relied upon by humanitarian groups, journalists, and international bodies. Its figures do not differentiate between civilians and combatants and cannot be independently verified by TIME. Write to Olivia-Anne Cleary at olivia-anne.cleary@time.com. (Clarifies number of AU member states in paragraph 3) By Catarina Demony and AyenDeng Bior LONDON/DAKAR (Reuters) -The African Union has backed a campaign to end the use by governments and international organisations of the 16th-century Mercator map of the world in favour of one that more accurately displays Africa's size. Created by cartographer Gerardus Mercator for navigation, the projection distorts continent sizes, enlarging areas near the poles like North America and Greenland while shrinking Africa and South America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It might seem to be just a map, but in reality, it is not," AU Commission deputy chairperson Selma Malika Haddadi told Reuters, saying the Mercator fostered a false impression that Africa was "marginal", despite being the world's second-largest continent by area, with over a billion people. The AU has 55 member states. Such stereotypes influence media, education and policy, she said. Criticism of the Mercator map is not new, but the 'Correct The Map' campaign led by advocacy groups Africa No Filter and Speak Up Africa has revived the debate, urging organisations to adopt the 2018 Equal Earth projection, which tries to reflect countries' true sizes. "The current size of the map of Africa is wrong," Moky Makura, executive director of Africa No Filter, said. "It's the world's longest misinformation and disinformation campaign, and it just simply has to stop." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fara Ndiaye, co-founder of Speak Up Africa, said the Mercator affected Africans' identity and pride, especially children who might encounter it early in school. "We're actively working on promoting a curriculum where the Equal Earth projection will be the main standard across all (African) classrooms," Ndiaye said, adding she hoped it would also be the one used by global institutions, including Africa-based ones. Haddadi said the AU endorsed the campaign, adding it aligned with its goal of "reclaiming Africa's rightful place on the global stage" amid growing calls for reparations for colonialism and slavery. The AU will advocate for wider map adoption and discuss collective actions with member states, Haddadi added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mercator projection is still widely used, including by schools and tech companies. Google Maps switched from Mercator on desktop to a 3D globe view in 2018, though users can still switch back to the Mercator if they prefer. On the mobile app, however, the Mercator projection remains the default. 'Correct The Map' wants organisations like the World Bank and the United Nations to adopt the Equal Earth map. A World Bank spokesperson said they already use the Winkel-Tripel or Equal Earth for static maps and are phasing out Mercator on web maps. The campaign said it has sent a request to the UN geospatial body, UN-GGIM. A UN spokesperson said that once received it must be reviewed and approved by a committee of experts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other regions are backing the AU's efforts. Dorbrene O'Marde, Vice Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Reparations Commission, endorsed Equal Earth as a rejection of Mercator map's "ideology of power and dominance". (Reporting by Catarina Demony in London and Ayen Deng Bior in Dakar;Additional reporting by Ngouda Dione and Will Russel; Editing by Toby Chopra) President Donald Trumps order to crack down on crime in the nations capital is "crystal clear," U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi told Fox Noticias host Rachel Campos-Duffy in an exclusive interview Wednesday. "I don't have to tell you about the violent crime that we're seeing every day," Bondi said. "Staffers are shot walking out. Drive-bys are happening in the nation's capital. And no more it's going to stop." Radical Dc Officials Treated Officers Like Crap, Police Leader Says 7 Attacks That Led To Trump Takeover Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Trump federalized the capital citys Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), giving federal agencies supervisory power over the MPD. That same day, a man was fatally shot in Northwest D.C., marking the federal districts 100th homicide this year. Bondi insisted Trumps order aims to help D.C. residents of all ethnicities, including Latinos, who comprise over 10% of D.C.s population. "President Trump wants to make Washington D.C., our nation's capital, safe for all of us, for Latinos, for all of us who live here," Bondi said. Read On The Fox News App I Support Trump Taking Control Of Dc Police The Constitution Is On His Side Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Safety is not the presidents only goal, the attorney general added. Trump also wants to make the capital city "clean" and "beautiful again." "All of these buildings are in disarray," she lamented. "We want families to be able to come here and go to our museums, which are free. Go to the Smithsonian, go to the National Gallery, go to the zoo." WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 13: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during an event at the Kennedy Center on August 13, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump announced country music artist George Strait, actor Michael Crawford, actor Sylvester Stallone, singer Gloria Gaynor and members of the rock band Kiss as the first nominees of the annual Kennedy Center Honors since taking control of the centers board earlier this year. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) While "Liberation Day" critics cite MPD statistics to argue D.C.s crime is at a "30-year low," the department suspended one of its police commanders in May for allegedly falsifying crime numbers in his reports. Woman Gunned Down In 'Safe' Dc Neighborhood As Trump Launches Federal Police Takeover Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This scandal is something U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro is "looking into," Bondi revealed. "It's so important," Bondi said. "You can't deflate statistics because people need to know, people need to be safe, and we have all of our federal agencies out there for the last four or five nights." When a reporter similarly asked Pirro about the reported drop in crime rates Tuesday, the former Fox News host did not hold back. Jeanine Pirro Shuts Down Reporters Questioning Trumps Dc Crime Crackdown "You tell the kid who was just beat the hell and back with a severe concussion and a broken nose, Crime is down," Pirro said. "No, that falls on deaf ears, and my ears are deaf to that, and that's why I fight the fight." Jeanine Pirro, interim US attorney for the District of Columbia, speaks during a news conference in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025. Trump says he will deploy the DC National Guard to Washington, DC, and place the DC Metropolitan Police Department under direct federal control in a push to reduce crime in the nation's capital. Photographer: Yuri Gripas/Abaca/Bloomberg via Getty Images Pirro was the latest member of the Trump administration to cite violent acts of crime that preceded "Liberation Day," including a former DOGE staffer being assaulted and a 21-year-old congressional intern being murdered in the crossfire of a drive-by shooting in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pirros comments came as media critics like Politico argued Trump wants to "cast the city as dangerous," with Democrats like Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker going so far as to compare the president's federal takeover to Nazi Germany. Watch Rachel Campos-Duffy's entire interview with Attorney General Bondi on Fox Noticias. Original article source: AG Pam Bondi suggests Trump's crime crackdown in DC will help Latino residents An agricultural spray drone sprays a field of soybeans in Clear Lake. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Across the country, farmers and small entrepreneurs are adding drones to their fleet of tools for tasks like spraying agricultural chemicals or spreading seeds for a cover crop. Today, the majority of the ag-drone market is made up of Chinese manufactured machinery, which some federal laws seek to outlaw, largely due to national security fears. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those in the industry, however, wonder if the budding American ag-drone market is ready to fill the gaps in the event of a U.S. ban on Chinese drones which could begin at the end of the year. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX How and why drones? Drones have slowly integrated into the agricultural sector. The price tags and ability to go out and spray right after a rain make them attractive options for farmers who would otherwise risk getting a spray rig stuck in the mud, or wait on the local aerial sprayer to fit them in their schedules. Cory Maassen attended a spray drone workshop Tuesday in Clear Lake with his father, who farms corn and soybeans near Avoca. The younger Maassen, who plans to take over the farm when his dad is ready, said he has been looking into drones as an option to add a supplementary revenue stream to the farm operation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Maassen property is under 1,000 acres, so Maassen figured adding a custom sprayer business could help build some longevity in the farm operation. To have a different income stream would be nice as well, Corey Maassen said. Its cheaper than buying new land, its cheaper than buying a new sprayer. Maassens plan is in line with a lot of spray drone operators. Some farmers will buy a couple of drones for their property and make some cash spraying a neighbors field too. Others have built custom spraying businesses with a fleet of drones. A traditional ag sprayer, one driven in the field, could cost upward of half a million dollars. A new spray drone costs between $25,000 and $60,000, depending on size. Granted, there is a tradeoff in time as a drone can spray a 20- to 30-foot swath at a time, compared to 120-foot booms that could come on a traditional sprayer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a fraction of the cost, Maassen said. And if it holds up as well as what theyre saying it can, it pays for itself within a year or two. Doug Dodd, a drone specialist at Titan Pro in Clear Lake, where the workshop was hosted, said the biggest reason a farmer should think about a drone is it gives them control over when they spray. Dodd said farmers also have the ability to tackle uneven terrains, seed a cover crop and perform multiple applications. To him, drone technology in ag is akin to his grandfathers generation adding tractors on their farms. You know any farmers who farm without a tractor? Dodd said. I really feel like if guys are apprehensive, theyre falling farther behind. Disruption to the Chinese drone market could be imminent Eric Ringer is the president of the American Spray Drone Coalition and vice president of partnerships for an Iowa City based spray drone retailer and software company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ringer said the nature of the spray drone industry is that the majority of the technology comes from China. The American Spray Drone Coalition represents nearly 80% of the ag spray drone market in the country and has opposed some legislation that would restrict the sale of Chinese drones in the U.S. The same law also specified Autel Robotics, another Chinese-owned drone company that specializes in drones for security, inspection and surveying purposes. Last year Congress considered, and ultimately passed, the National Defense Authorization Act, which among many things, stipulated the Chinese-owned drone company DJI join the Federal Communication Commissions covered list unless a federal agency reviewed the company and determined it did not pose a threat to national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No agency has taken up the process to review the company and if none steps up by Dec. 23 of this year, DJI will join a slew of other Chinese companies on the covered list, and in essence be banned in the U.S. According to the American Spray Drone Coalition, Chinese-made drones account for about 90% of the market in the U.S. Ringer said it was estimated that around 80% of spray drone flights in the U.S. were done with DJI equipment as of 2024. The reality is that the best drones on the market right now are from China, Ringer said. We need to do better, as a nation, in building up good domestic alternatives but that doesnt happen magically by banning all drones from a certain country. Ringer said the coalition advocates for consumer choice in the spray drone space and he said the coalition is supportive of legislation that can curb dependency on Chinese options without limiting options in the market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We advocate for basic farmer choice, Ringer said. We want there to be lots of options on the market so that our farmers benefit from all the good things about competition in technology suppliers. Ringer said more competition means downward pressure on price and upward pressure on quality. According to data from the American Spray Drone Coalition, more than 10.3 million acres were treated via spray drones in 2024, which represented $215 million in rural revenue not from purchasing drones but from operators offering custom applications and other such services with the drones. U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-New York, penned a letter with other lawmakers urging the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to expedite a review of DJI and Autel to prevent the companies from defaulting to the covered list in December. No further action on this effort has been announced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A DJI spokesperson wrote in an email the company has been urging the relevant agencies to conduct the audit required by Congress, and said the removal of DJI from the American market would have devastating ramifications on the U.S. economy. We made clear then as we do now that we welcome the opportunity to participate in a rigorous, transparent, and fair audit, the spokesperson said. We believe our products can stand up to scrutiny because our security protections and data privacy controls are real and robust. The spokesperson also said DJI has also received certifications and security audits from industry experts and federal agencies. According to the spokesperson, DJI products, which stretch beyond the agricultural sector, generate more than $116 billion in economic activity in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americas drone community deserves due process, the statement said. Today, thousands of farmers, first responders, small businesses, and others would be cut off from essential tools that enable them to operate safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Opponents of the Chinese drones fear the surveillance- and data-gathering capabilities of the drones pose a national security threat. Ringer said if cybersecurity is a concern, then the focus should be on creating the same types of firewalls and security protections that are on foreign-made consumer electronics. Ringer said U.S. options make up around 5% of all manufactured drones, not just ag drones, on the market. With such limited current capacity, he said legislation should urge U.S. drone manufacturers to focus on the high sensitivity use cases such as military drones and surveillance. Path to flying an ag drone: Before farmers or custom applicators can take to the sky, there are a number of permits they must obtain: a small unmanned aircraft systems license from the Federal Aviation Administration, a pesticide applicator license and an FAA license for agricultural operations. Operators must also register their drones with both the FAA and the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Defense Authorization Act is not the only threat to Chinese made drones. Certain shipments of DJI drones have been stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, due to concerns of forced labor under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. In a company blog post, DJI said the claims were entirely unfounded and categorically false. In June, the U.S. House Appropriations Committee approved the Homeland Security budget for fiscal year 2026, which had a provision that would stop U.S. Customs and Border Protections from admitting aerosol-dispensing unmanned aircraft system(s) produced or manufactured in a foreign adversary country. Ringer said this legislation, if approved by the House and Senate as is, would mean our farmers are left hanging. Another federal bill, which Ringer said was a good way to go about the issue, has a longer timeline for a Chinese drone ban and it offers grants to domestic manufacturers as they ramp up production. The thing that we risk if we cut off our supply of drones today, is that the U.S. options are going to get rushed to market, because theres a huge vacuum there, and were going to deal with quality issues, Ringer said. Ringer said the market has enough options right now that cutting off DJI wont break it. But, he worries about the impacts to the market if all Chinese drones and components are banned. Texas-based ag drone company ready to step in Hylio is a Texas-based drone and software company that was born out of a group of college engineering students who saw the potential of ag spray drones. Currently, Hylio represents between 10%-15% of the U.S. spray drone market, and is the sole drone brand sold at Titan Pro in Clear Lake. Hylios CEO Arthur Erickson said if DJI were banned in December, his company wouldnt fill the gap immediately, but it really wouldnt take us long to catch up. A Hylio ag spray drone on a demonstration flight at Titan Pro in Clear Lake. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Part of that is because there are only a few thousand operators in the U.S. that use ag spray drones. Right now, Erickson said, Hylio can make about 2,000 drones a year, but will be up to 5,000-6,000 annually once they reach full capacity in three or four years. Erickson said he and his cofounders were not thinking about the geopolitical divide when they founded the company, but as they realized the dominance Chinese brands had on the market, the American-made promise became more of the companys ethos. Its not that were against China or even DJI, Erickson said. It shouldnt be the only monopolistic option on the market. There should be a lot of different choices. Erickson said the strategy to ban all Chinese drones could be a rip the Band-aid off method to force American drone companies to accelerate. This would increase demand for Hylio, but also encourage some of the younger U.S. manufacturers to become more competitive. Its not going to be existential if theres a somewhat limited supply of these spray drones over the next two or three years as these American companies scale up, Erickson said. (Farmers) are not going to go out of business just because they didnt have spray drones for two or three years. But, he said, some of the risks might come to other sectors of the drone market, like firefighters and police officers who have used drones to locate missing people, as some agencies did following the recent flooding events in Texas. Erickson said there are certain elements about Chinese owned drones that worry him, including reported funding ties to the Chinese Communist Party and what he called anticompetitive business practices. Chinas doing whats best for them, but we cant just sit back and let them completely dominate this industry, Erickson said. It would be an existential threat to let any single entity, Chinese or not, have that amount of control. Erickson said the bottom line is that China is on the chopping block and that its a serious factor for those purchasing drones to know that some Chinese models could be banned in a couple of months. Maassen, the prospective buyer, said he was considering purchasing a Hylio drone for that very reason. DJI, XAG (another Chinese drone company) are going to be cheaper in the buy out thats the reality of it, Maassen said. Why would I want to buy that drone if Im not going to be able to service it its not exactly a smart plan on my part. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE President Donald Trump has often bragged about his warm relationship with Russias Vladimir Putin. But in the months leading up to the leaders first meeting in six years, Trump began asking Europeans and White House aides whats changed about his counterpart. The line of questioning, described to CNN by three people familiar with the matter, speaks to Trumps growing frustration with Putin leading up to their summit in Alaska Friday to discuss ending Russias years-long invasion of Ukraine. Trump promised to quickly broker a peace deal even before he took office. Not only has Putin resisted ceasefire proposals, but Russia has escalated its attacks on Ukraine this year. While there have been some indications that Putins short-term objectives in Ukraine may have shifted underpinning an optimism within the White House that an agreement can be reached the prevailing view of the US intelligence community is far more skeptical. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin maintains the same maximalist territorial goals as he has throughout the war and would likely use a ceasefire to refit his forces and possibly even make another run at Kyiv, multiple people familiar with recent US intelligence reporting on Russia said. And despite European calls for security guarantees for Ukraine, Putin still wants to ensure that Ukraine never joins NATO and that foreign peacekeepers dont enter the territory, the people said. Putin thinks he is winning, so he has no reason to bend, said one person familiar with the recent US intelligence assessments, who, like others in this story, spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. His thinking is he might as well pocket the wins he has now, including the Ukrainian territory he has already taken by force, and then make another run to take more later, the person said. A resident looks on at the site of an apartment building hit during Russian missile and drone strikes in Kyiv, Ukraine, on July 31. - Thomas Peter/Reuters Trumps desire to better understand Putin comes amid Ukrainian and European concern that the White House is being manipulated by the Kremlin, handing Putin a victory on the global stage by agreeing to meet with him on American soil and without Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky present. Russia is offering to stop the war if they get everything they have always wanted, including their most maximalist demands, a European official told CNN. And that would not be a deal, it would be a submission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, some Europeans also believe that Trump may have a unique ability to strike a deal, and they are encouraged by his shifting policy on the war in recent months. Trump on Wednesday warned that Russia would face very severe consequences if he determines that Putin is still not serious about ending the war with Ukraine. Trump didnt specify what those consequences might be, but he has previously threatened Moscow with stiffer economic sanctions or tariffs. Putin intelligence remains a hard target Discerning Putins intentions has been historically difficult. A former officer in the KGB, the Soviet Unions main security service, Putin keeps an extremely tight circle of confidants and its unclear who he is listening to at any given time, according to a person familiar with recent US intelligence reports. Decades spent trying to decode Putin have given the US tremendous institutional knowledge of the man. Still, US spy agencies have a notoriously poor view of his day-to-day decision-making, multiple officials told CNN. The Kremlin remains what intelligence officials call a hard target incredibly difficult to penetrate through traditional espionage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the US has at times successfully gained insight into Putins plans, such as his decision to invade Ukraine in 2022. Other foreign intelligence services at the time cast doubt on American warnings that the Russian leader was about to start a war. Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Econimic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, on June 20. - Dmitri Lovetsky/Pool/AP Trump has in the past expressed skepticism of the US intelligence community, particularly its assessments related to Russia, and its unclear how much hell rely on intelligence reports going into Fridays summit. One US official familiar with recent intelligence analysis questioned whether Trumps briefers were laying out the hard truths of the situation, including the widely-held view that Putin believes its in his best interest to continue the war. Trump remains confident he can personally and rapidly assess Putin, saying on Tuesday that hell know after probably the first two minutes of their sit-down if an agreement can be reached to end the war. I got along very well with President Putin, Trump said of his first term, adding that Fridays summit would be a feel-out meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while Trump has questioned if Putin has changed, others have noticed an evolution in Trump when it comes to his thinking about the Russian. European allies say the one who changed is Trump, both in his comfort level in his job and in his understanding of who Putin is, said one US official, adding that Trump has continued altering his thinking on Russia since he took office earlier this year. His approach in early January was naive Now Europeans say he finally gets it that Putin is a murderous leader, the US official said. His anger was palpable Trumps rising anger with Putin began earlier this summer, coming as Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, Trumps primary interlocutor with Russia, was also expressing frustration with the Kremlin, said a person familiar with the matter. Witkoff privately commented that the Russians were tapping us along, the person said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also began using frequent expletives when talking about Putin in private meetings, said people in those meetings. It was clear that Trumps perspective was changing, they said. His anger was palpable, said one person privy to a private meeting between Trump and a European leader. In this pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff arrive for their talks in Moscow on April 25. - Kristina Kormilitsyna/Pool/Sputnik/Getty Images There are some signals that Putins short-term goals may have shifted with an openness to pocketing territorial gains in Ukraine and also shoring up economic deals for Russia, said a source familiar with the intelligence. But it is unlikely that Putin would take that position early-on in any negotiation. In the final weeks of the Biden administration, US intelligence officials cautioned now-senior advisers to Trump that controlling Ukraine remained Putins top priority next to his own regimes survival, according to a person familiar with the conversations. The officials also warned that the Russian president was eager to exploit any perceived rush to negotiations, the person added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin had bet all his chips on Ukraine and showed no sign of relenting, no matter the costs, the intelligence officials told Trumps advisors, according to the person familiar with the discussions. Though analysts have said that Putins imperial ambitions regarding Ukraine were long-established, Trumps aides have told the president that the coronavirus pandemic is at least partly responsible for any change in Putin since he last met Trump in 2019, according to three people familiar with the matter. The discussion about Putins possible shift came as Trump was perplexed about why he had been unable to get Putin to agree to end the Ukraine war. Many around Trump are now trying to give him the idea that Putin changed so he has a reason to say that he wasnt wrong in his initial impression coming into office that Putin is a good guy, said a person familiar with the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A White House official said Trump is effective at foreign policy because of his ability to look anyone in the eye, friend or foe, to make better deals for our country or bring peace to conflicts around the world. Putins pandemic isolation Leading up to the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, some US intelligence officials believed that Putin was becoming more paranoid perhaps due to protracted isolation during the pandemic. He rarely left his palatial residence outside Moscow during the pandemic. His public appearances were largely limited to televised video conference meetings with Russian cabinet officials. Anyone Putin met with in person had to first quarantine for two weeks, including World War II veterans who shared an outdoor stage with Putin on Red Square during a military parade. The extreme precautions to protect the leaders health Putin was 68 during the pandemics first year ultimately narrowed his social circle. Russian technocrats who wouldve been against war had less contact with Putin than hardliners, Russian analysts have said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One US intelligence report circulated to more than a dozen agencies in early 2022 cited a source who relayed that Putins behavior had become highly concerning and unpredictable, CNN reported at the time. Today, Putin is certainly no longer as isolated as he was during the pandemic, but he remains difficult to decipher even for the countries closest in proximity to the Kremlin. Ukrainian intelligence assessments of Putin in recent years have been bolder sometimes beyond belief than those of their US and European counterparts. Lt. Gen. Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraines top spy, has claimed that Putin has multiple body doubles who often appear in public instead of the actual president. Budanov has also questioned if the real Putin is still alive. Putin believes he must win As the war has dragged into a fourth year, Putins determination to conquer Ukraine has arguably only intensified making him an even more challenging interlocutor to come to an agreement with than in the past, said US officials and experts. Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a signing ceremony with Chinese President Xi Jinpin at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia on May 8. - Pavel Bednyakov/AP By now he believes that if Russia doesnt win this war, he wont be in office anymore, said Angela Stent, a former national intelligence officer for Russia at the State Department and a leading expert on post-Soviet Russia. So there has been a change in the way that he views the West and his determination to push back, but I think the fundamental beliefs probably havent changed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That determination has made Europeans increasingly concerned about Trump getting lured into a deal that only rewards Russia for the invasion. Zelensky warned this week that Putin will try to deceive Trump when they meet. The Ukrainian president said on Monday that his intelligence agencies reported that Putin is definitely not preparing for a ceasefire or an end to the war. Putin is determined only to present a meeting with America as his personal victory and then continue acting exactly as before, applying the same pressure on Ukraine as before, Zelensky said in a post on X. Last week, Witkoff left European allies confused and uneasy after Europeans were told he discussed Russian control over Ukrainians territories in exchange for a ceasefire, a European diplomat said. But Trump appeared to agree on a call with Europeans ahead of the Putin summit that Ukrainian territory is not for him to negotiate it is for Zelensky, European diplomats said. Still, analysts said that Trump administration officials focus on territorial exchange indicates that they still might be missing Putins greater aims. Putin is much more ideological today than he was in his earlier years, said Michael McFaul, a former US ambassador to Russia. He is not a transactional leader, as many in the West had often assumed in the past, but is more motivated by imperial ideas. A person with that mindset is hard to negotiate with, McFaul added. This story has been updated with a comment from a White House official. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Clerical and admin jobs face the highest automation risk from generative AI, a jobs report said. But high-skill roles are likely to be augmented by 2050, Jobs and Skills Australia found. The government agency called for targeted training so all Australians can benefit from the AI shift. Australia's jobs market is bracing for an AI shake-up. Generative AI is set to automate large chunks of routine clerical and administrative work while serving as a powerful assistant for high-skilled roles, according to new modelling from Jobs and Skills Australia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government agency's "Our Gen AI transition" report, released on Thursday, used economy-wide Computable General Equilibrium modelling a type of economic simulation that tracks how changes ripple across all industries and occupations to forecast how automation and augmentation could reshape Australia's labor market between now and 2050. The model incorporated "exposure" scores for 998 occupations, estimating how much of each job could be fully automated or partially augmented by AI technology. The results showed that only about 4% of the workforce is in occupations with high automation exposure, while 79% have low automation exposure but medium-to-high augmentation potential. That means AI is more likely to change how most jobs are done rather than eliminate them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement JSA's report listed routine clerical roles, including general clerks, receptionists, accounting clerks, and bookkeepers, as the most automatable. At the other end of the spectrum, knowledge-intensive jobs like managers, engineers, healthcare professionals, and educators had higher augmentation potential. JSA's modelling projected the biggest job declines by 2050 for general clerks, receptionists, accounting clerks and bookkeepers, sales and marketing professionals, and programmers. It predicted the largest job gains for cleaners and laundry workers, nurses and midwives, business administration managers, construction and mining laborers, and hospitality workers occupations that require physical presence and human touch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the pace of change will vary depending on how quickly industries and occupations adopt generative AI, JSA forecasts slower employment growth through the 2030s as the labor market adjusts, followed by faster growth in the 2040s. "The quality of adoption and implementation will be instrumental in achieving the benefits of labor-augmenting tools," the report said. The report also found no evidence of a broad decline in entry-level hiring so far, but said early signs suggest these jobs may evolve, shifting from performing repetitive tasks to overseeing and refining AI-generated outputs. JSA urged policymakers to prepare now with targeted training, industry partnerships, and digital inclusion efforts to ensure all workers can benefit from the AI transition, especially women, older Australians, First Nations peoples, and people with disabilities, who the report found are more likely to be in roles with higher automation risk. Experts are split over how AI will affect employment The findings come amid a wider debate over how AI will affect human work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Satya Nadella, the Microsoft CEO, has argued that while "knowledge work" will be redefined as AI takes on tasks once done exclusively by people, humans will still be needed to oversee and direct the technology. Others are more pessimistic. Adam Dorr, the research director at the think tank RethinkX, has warned that AI could make most human jobs obsolete by 2045, leaving only a narrow set of roles that depend on human connection or ethical complexity. Geoffrey Hinton, dubbed the "Godfather of AI," has meanwhile said "mundane intellectual labor" is most at risk, predicting that one person could end up doing the work of 10 with AI assistance. In the eyes of the Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, AI will automate certain roles but create new jobs in areas such as robotics, while Bill Gates has highlighted the potential for AI to solve chronic shortages of teachers and doctors. Read the original article on Business Insider Artificial intelligence reviewing the CT scan of a UConn Health patient in her 20s battling pneumonia identified a small abnormal area, resulting in an uncommon early cancer diagnosis. The cross country and track and field athlete said the early diagnosis allowed her to continue to be active in her sport. Dr. Omar Ibrahim, service chief for the Neag Cancer Center and director of interventional pulmonary at UConn Health, said typically no one is looking for cancer in patients in their 20s and 30s and that the new software using AI can help catch suspicious findings and diagnose patients early. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has a huge ability to catch so much more in a short amount of time and filter information for us at a capacity that would require multiple people to do, he said. Every few days we are able to help a dozen or so patients that have a risk finding that needs to be investigated as opposed to not knowing that it even existed because it was not picked up. UConn Health officials said the use of AI in radiology and pulmonary medicine is helping doctors to triage patients that are in need, highlighting the cases that are most urgent. But doctors said the technology does not replace radiologists and doctors who interpret the scans and provide the best care plan for patients. Overall, doctors said the advancement in AI in medicine is an important tool in improving patient care. Even so, they acknowledge the challenges that arise from securing patient data using AI. There is also concern from other health care workers about AI replacing their jobs, something doctors are skeptical will happen. Instead, they believe the responsibilities in the health care system would shift for workers tackling high level tasks rather than data collection. The National Institutes of Health reported that AI is aimed to complement, rather than replace, doctors and health care providers. Detecting abnormalities In the last few years, UConn Health began incorporating AI into medicine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UConn Health incorporates 12 AI modules looking for potential life-threatening findings on radiology examinations. These AI modules flag imaging studies the radiologists should read emergently due to suspected acute findings, said Dr. Michael Baldwin, UConn Health attending radiologist. For example, Baldwin said an AI module looking at intracranial bleeds, which refers to bleeding in the brain, is over 95% sensitive and over 94% specific. If you have a family member arriving in the ER with symptoms of chest pain, they want to be treated as soon as possible, he said. It is nice to know that there is a system in the background that is flagging patients that are critically ill. These modules are very sensitive and they look for any potential abnormalities. It is not always a positive finding. Any potential problem goes to the radiologist and we are able to say whether the finding is true or not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ibrahim added that beyond the diagnosis stage from a surgical or procedural aspect, doctors are a long way off for the trust of automated systems to do procedures or surgeries. At some point it will be able to incorporate multiple forms of data that will help providers, he said. It will never replace providers. I dont think anyone would be happy knowing that they are being seen by an AI robot so to speak. What they want is a provider in the room as there is a human aspect to medicine. Ibrahim said every CT scan that is done at UConn Health is reviewed through the AI module. The module also reviews lung nodules, which are small abnormal growths detected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vast majority of lung nodules are benign but our best chance to treat lung cancer is to catch it in its infancy, he said. Once we get the information we review it. The vast majority of findings is not significant but if you were to review 100 nodules and we found that three were clinically significant and likely to be cancer that is three people out of 100 that we diagnosed early. The hope is to get them the most appropriate therapy as soon as possible. Ibrahim said he has also implemented an AI scribe into his practice, which listens to his conversations and integrates them into a note format. It allows me to spend more time with the patient and less time writing my notes, he said. Baldwin added that AI in its preliminary stage of diagnosing scans is not always accurate and could tell you you have an intracranial bleed when it is not the case. This is where radiologists verification of the scan and interpretation of the data is critical, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even when these modules are flagged in studies we need to make sure that we have a physician there to render an opinion on that finding and get the message to the clinician that is caring for that patient, he said. By far, Ibrahim said the biggest challenge with AI software is assuring that it is secure, avoiding the hacking of any patient data. At UConn Health, Ibrahim said the data is secure as the cybersecurity team makes sure that everything is encrypted. Baldwin said that it is critically important at this stage that a human is involved in weighing in on the findings that are generated through AI. Overall, our care is improved with the use of AI and in the next five years it will be fascinating to see where it goes and how much better it gets, he said. DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) More than 100 nonprofit groups warned Thursday that Israels rules for aid groups working in the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank will block much-needed relief and replace independent organizations with those that serve Israels political and military agenda charges that Israel denied. At the same time, hospital officials reported more deaths from Israeli airstrikes and an increasing toll from malnutrition. The mounting backlash over aid restrictions and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza have been cited by several countries as a factor in their moves toward recognizing Palestinian statehood. Yet on Thursday, Israel advanced plans for a new settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, with one far-right government minister describing the move as a way to bury the idea of a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Letter accuses Israel of weaponization of aid The nonprofit groups, including Oxfam, Doctors Without Borders and CARE, were responding to registration rules announced by Israel in March that require organizations to hand over full lists of their donors and Palestinian staff for vetting. They contend doing so could endanger their staff and give Israel broad grounds to block aid if groups are deemed to be delegitimizing the country or supporting boycotts or divestment. The aid groups stressed on Thursday that most of them have not been able to deliver a single truck of life-saving assistance since Israel implemented a blockade in March. Their letter called on other countries and donors to pressure Israel to end the weaponization of aid, including through bureaucratic obstruction. The aid that the groups provide supplements assistance from the United Nations, airdrops organized by foreign governments and the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation the new Israel and U.S.-backed contractor that since May has been the primary distributor of aid in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite those channels, the amount of aid reaching Gaza remains far below what the U.N. and relief groups previously delivered. Meanwhile, the U.N. agency helping Palestinian refugees, known as UNRWA, said Thursday that dehydration is increasing in Gaza amid limited water supplies and a heatwave that has pushed temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). U.N. agencies and a small number of aid groups have resumed delivering assistance, but say the number of trucks allowed in remains far from sufficient. COGAT, the Israeli military body in charge of humanitarian aid to Gaza, denied the claims in the NGOs' letter. It said 380 trucks entered Gaza on Wednesday. And on Thursday, the Israeli military said, 119 aid packages containing food for Gaza residents were airdropped by six different countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the two-month ceasefire, aid groups demanded Israel allow entry for 600 trucks per day. The alleged delay in aid entry occurs only when organizations choose not to meet the basic security requirements intended to prevent Hamass involvement," COGAT said. Israel has pressed U.N. agencies to accept military escorts to deliver goods into Gaza, a demand they've largely rejected, citing their commitment to neutrality. The standoff has been the source of competing claims: Israel maintains it allows aid into Gaza that adheres to its rules, while aid groups that have long operated in Gaza decry the amount of life-saving supplies stuck at border crossings. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff had met with U.N. humanitarian officials in New York about the need to, speedily, scale up aid into Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Death toll mounts from airstrikes and malnutrition Hospitals throughout Gaza on Thursday reported casualties from Israeli strikes on Gaza City, which Israel identified as a militant stronghold last week when it announced plans to launch a new offensive against Hamas. An Israeli strike on Gaza City killed one person and wounded three others, an official at Shifa Hospital said. A separate strike killed five people in Gaza City on Thursday morning, according to al-Ahli hospital, which received the casualties. Israel's military did not immediately respond to questions about the strikes. The casualties add to the tens of thousands of Palestinians who have been killed since the war started when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 251 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israels retaliatory campaign has killed more than 61,700 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry, which does not specify how many were fighters or civilians but says around half were women and children. Most of the hostages have been released in ceasefires or other deals but 50 remain inside Gaza. Israel believes around 20 of them to be alive. The health 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 casualties. Israel disputes its figures but has not provided its own. The ministry on Thursday also reported four additional malnutrition-related deaths, raising the total to 239, a toll that includes 106 children. Israel announces settlement expansion in West Bank Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the occupied West Bank, Israels far-right finance minister on Thursday announced the construction of a new settlement expansion that Palestinians and rights groups worry will scuttle plans for a future Palestinian state by effectively cutting the West Bank into two separate parts. Minister Bezalel Smotrich said doing so buries the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing to recognize and no one to recognize. Anyone in the world who tries today to recognize a Palestinian state will receive an answer from us on the ground, he said, referencing the many countries moving toward recognition. The 3,500 apartments in question would expand the settlement of Maale Adumim into an open tract of land east of Jerusalem known as E1. Development in the area has been under consideration for more than two decades, but was frozen due to U.S. pressure during previous administrations. The E1 plan has not yet received its final approval, which is expected next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Israel to immediately halt the settlement expansion, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. Rights groups also swiftly condemned the plan. Peace Now called it deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution." Italy evacuates Palestinians from Gaza, including injured kids As European countries amplify their criticisms of Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, some are expanding evacuations. Italy's foreign affairs ministry said it received 114 Palestinian evacuees from Gaza on Wednesday, including 31 children suffering from either severe injuries and amputations or serious congenital diseases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the beginning of the war Italy has evacuated more than 900 Palestinians from Gaza, including those who have arrived as part of a family reunification program. __ Metz reported from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel, Sally Abou AlJoud in Beirut, Lebanon, Farnoush Amiri at the United Nations and Andrea Rosa in Rome contributed reporting. ___ Follow APs war coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war TORONTO (AP) Air Canada started canceling flights on Thursday ahead of a possible work stoppage by flight attendants that could impact hundreds of thousands of travelers. A complete shutdown of the country's largest airline threatens to impact about 130,000 people a day. The union representing around 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants issued a 72-hour strike notice Wednesday. In response, the airline issued a lockout notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Nasr, Chief Operations Officer for Air Canada, said the airline has begun a gradual suspension of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge operations. All flights will be paused by Saturday early morning, he said. Nasr said this approach will help facilitate an orderly restart which under the best circumstances will take a full week to complete. He said a first set of cancellations involving several dozen flights will impact long-haul overseas flights that were due to depart Thursday night. By tomorrow evening we expect to have cancelled flights affecting over 100,000 customers, Nasr said. By the time we get to 1 a.m. on Saturday morning we will be completely grounded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said a grounding will affect 25,000 Canadians a day abroad who may become stranded. They expect 500 flights to be cancelled by the end of Friday. He said customers whose flights are cancelled will be eligible for a full refund, and it has also made arrangements with other Canadian and foreign carriers to provide alternative travel options to the extent possible. Arielle Meloul-Wechsler, head of human resources for Air Canada, said their latest offer includes a 38% increase in total compensation including benefits and pensions over four years. The union has said its main sticking points revolve around what it calls flight attendants poverty wages and unpaid labor when planes arent in the air. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some flight attendants at the airlines news conference on Thursday held up signs that read Unpaid work wont fly and Poverty wages = UnCanadian. Natasha Stea, who represents flight attendants in Montreal for the union, said she thinks the airline is counting on the government to intervene. Stea said they want a fair and equitable contract. There is still time. Im sure if we sat down and talked we could actually get to an agreement, she said. The union rejected a proposal from the airline to enter a binding arbitration process, saying it prefers to negotiate a deal that its members can then vote on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meloul-Wechsler said they've hit an impasse but are still available for talks and consensual arbitration. She said that if a deal isn't reached, the resulting very serious disruptions would prompt the company to consider asking for government intervention. Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu said she asked the union to respond to the airlines request for arbitration. She urged both sides to come to an agreement independently, saying she believes deals are best made at the bargaining table. The escalation in negotiations comes nearly a year after Air Canada averted a possible strike by its pilots in September 2024 that likewise threatened a shutdown. A contract deal was reached, however, before the pilots union could issue a 72-hour strike notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those pilots now say they support their colleagues in their fight for a new contract. We stand against government intervention and ask for the Air Canada Flight Attendants collective bargaining rights to be respected, the union representing about 5,400 of the airline's pilots said Thursday in a statement on X. ___ Associated Press airlines writer Rio Yamat contributed. An air traffic controller has been suspended for shouting Free Palestine to Israeli pilots. Israels flagship carrier, El Al, said that an air traffic controller at Pariss Charles de Gaulle Airport went on the radio and shouted the phrase to its pilots moments after take-off on Monday. The airline said that any deviation from standard procedures during take-off could lead to disaster, and that it has been liaising with Israels Civil Aviation Authority regarding the unprofessional and inappropriate radio incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The French transport minister, Philippe Tabarot, confirmed that the air official who shouted Free Palestine has now been suspended. He wrote on X: Analysis of the recordings proves that the facts are true. The perpetrator has been identified as an air traffic controller. He has been suspended from all duties until further notice. Disciplinary proceedings have been immediately initiated. The penalty must be commensurate with the seriousness of the facts. The incident comes after the Paris offices of El Al were vandalised last week, smeared with red paint and graffiti reading: genocide airline, and Free Palestine in a number of languages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Tabarot condemned the acts of vandalism, adding that acts of hatred and anti-Semitism have no place in France. Anti-Semitism on the rise It also marks the latest in a series of incidents involving Jewish and Israeli flight passengers. Last week it emerged that Jewish passengers received kosher meals with Free Palestine graffiti on the Spanish airline, Iberia. Last month a group of Jewish children returning to France from a summer camp in Spain were escorted off a Vueling flight to Paris last month after at least one child sang a Hebrew song. Vueling allegedly removed the director of a Jewish summer camp and approximately 50 children from the flight to Paris. The airline said the group had compromised passenger safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident prompted Sir Michael Ellis KC, a former attorney general, to say he was deeply concerned. He called for the UKs Civil Aviation Authority to investigate. He has also written to the Federal Aviation Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, calling for it to intervene as Vuelings parent company is the International Airlines Group, which owns airlines that operate multiple routes via the United States. Responding to the latest incident in Paris, he said: This is an outrageous and extremely dangerous incident. If an air traffic controller is a zealot who cannot control his conduct during flight operations it casts doubt on whether French air routes are safe for anyone to use at the moment. This is the latest in an increasing list of frightening anti-Semitic incidents in the aviation industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of Jewish children removed from a Vueling flight in Spain, kosher food boxes interfered with on other flights, and now this. I have written to the UK and American aviation regulators about these incidents because whatever the airline and wherever the incident, all of us are affected by incidents like this. A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: This is just the latest of a series of significant incidents in European aviation relating to Jews, and a disturbing reminder that this kind of hate can manifest even in settings where safety and professionalism should be paramount. Aviation relies on trust, discipline, and neutrality, and any abuse of position to single out or intimidate Israeli passengers or crew is unacceptable. We welcome the swift action taken by the French authorities and urge that the disciplinary process be pursued with the utmost seriousness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We hope that the French Government takes a similar interest in other incidents in this sector over which it has jurisdiction. Such conduct has no place in any profession, least of all one that holds lives in its hands. 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. Neil Scott, vice chancellor for academic success for the Alabama Community College System, presents an enrollment update to the board of trustees in Montgomery, Alabama, on Aug. 13, 2025. Scott said Wednesday enrollment in Alabama community colleges had gone up nearly 12% year over year. (Anna Barrett/Alabama Reflector) Alabamas community college enrollment is climbing at a higher rate than the national average, according to data released by the Alabama Community College System (ACCS) on Wednesday. Neil Scott, vice chancellor for academic success, told the ACCS Board of Trustees that the number of enrolled students grew from 76,761 to 85,793 between the Fall 2024 semester and the Fall 2025 semester, an increase of over 9,000 students (11.8%) year over year. Twenty of the systems 25 schools are showing an increased headcount, Scott said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2024-2025 was our largest head count that we have seen since the 2011-2012 school year, Scott said. Its just an absolutely huge enrollment year for ACCS, and something that our presidents and their faculty and their staff should be extremely proud of. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Nationally, community college enrollment is climbing after a dip from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Higher Ed Dive, community college enrollment had a 5.4% increase in spring enrollment from 2024 to 2025. The ACCS had a 9.8% increase over those two semesters, Scott said. We appreciate the commitment that you have to make this system the change agent that it can be, and is already, that brings an opportunity for so many people to make their lives better, Chancellor Jimmy Baker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alabamas enrollment has been higher than the national average in the past. In January, Scott reported that enrollment trends were about 3% higher than the national average. Baker said in an interview after the meeting that Alabamas higher than average enrollment growth is attributable to the presidents and staff at its schools continuously recruiting students. Weve got 40,000 students that are in dual enrollment, Baker said. It wouldnt happen without a good group of presidents and good staff, and weve worked hard. Fortunately, a lot of our presidents were in the high school business, so they understand that process. Susan Price, Bakers chief of staff, announced at the meeting that ACCS has partnered with the Alabama Weather Network, a free weather service provider started by Alabama meteorologist James Spann. James and his team will deliver real time weather updates that keep Alabamians informed and safe, Price said. Through this partnership, ACCS will be featured on broadcast digital platforms and in community outreach. Rep. Jeana Ross, R-Guntersville, watches a debate in the Alabama House of Representatives on April 9, 2025 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. Ross, a former director of Alabama's Department of Early Childhood Education, testified in Kentucky Wednesday about the state's nationally recognized pre-kindergarten program. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector) This story originally appeared on Kentucky Lantern. An Alabama state representative made the case for state-supported early childhood education Wednesday during a meeting of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears Pre-K for All Advisory Committee in Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Jeana Ross, R-Guntersville, a former educator and former secretary of the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, said the states pre-K program has survived Democratic and Republican governors and has always been a bipartisan program with bipartisan support and strong local and community support as well. Ross was key in creating Alabamas program at a time when research about brain development in young children was receiving more attention, she said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX It became evident that (in) these early years, a lot was going on, Ross said. The brain development and the experiences that children had early absolutely set their trajectory for the rest of their lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee also heard from Steven Barnett, the founder and senior co-director of the National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers University, who said that children who attend pre-kindergarten are more likely to be ready for kindergarten, be healthier and live longer. During the legislative session that convenes in January, Kentucky lawmakers will adopt the next two-year state budget. That probably will be Beshears last chance to win funding for pre-K for all Kentucky 4-year-olds, a proposal he has unsuccessfully pushed with the Republican-controlled legislature. Kentucky governors are limited to two terms, and Beshears second term ends in 2027. In June, he signed an executive order establishing the advisory committee to explore support for universal pre-kindergarten programs in Kentucky. During Wednesdays Zoom meeting, the committee learned about what other states have done in public preschool programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnett said pre-K has a domino effect on multiple parts of life. If you set those kinds of things up, you can then produce substantial improvements in later achievement, decreases in the need for special education, decreased failure and grade retention, and those things lead to increased educational attainment, more high school graduation, more post secondary enrollment, Barnett told the committee.Once you have that higher educational achievement, a whole host of other benefits follow: less crime, higher earnings, better jobs, better health. People will actually live longer. Steven Barnett During his weekly press conference Wednesday, Beshear said that since establishing the committee, people have sent more than 22,000 emails to legislators expressing support for universal pre-K in Kentucky. The committee has also held town halls in Bowling Green, Morehead, Frankfort and Northern Kentucky, which were incredibly successful and very well attended, according to Sam Flynn, the executive director for the Team Kentucky Pre-K for All Program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a no-brainer: Everybody wins by making pre-K accessible to every 4-year-old Kentucky child, including our businesses, our families, our kids and our economy, Beshear said. One in five Kentucky children currently live in poverty. Beshear also cited recently published research that found parents benefit in their careers by having access to universal pre-K for their children. Flynn said a significant number of school superintendents in the state have either reached out to us or weve spoken directly to them saying how much they support this. Source: Pre-K for All Advisory Committee Be very brave From the beginning of Alabamas work to make a successful pre-K program, Ross said, it was important to communicate the importance of early childhood education and what it meant for our communities in our state as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, she said, we knew that if the quality was not there, you may be doing more harm than good. So the quality was critical, and we built that from day one. The committee chose to examine Alabama because of the states similar characteristics to Kentucky. It also looked at Georgia and Iowa. Andrea Day, a division director for the Department for Community Based Services, within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, said that Alabama and Georgia residents spend the lowest percentage of their income on child care for 4-year-olds. Kentuckians, in contrast, spend the most 10% of annual income for one child, Day said. (Source: Pre-K for All Advisory Committee) To launch a successful pre-K program, Ross said, states have to be very brave and take a few risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Kentucky, about 63% of Kentuckys children ages 3 and 4 were not in school from 2019-2023, an increase from 58% from 2014-2018. In 2024, 67% of Kentuckys fourth graders were less than proficient in reading. Thats up from 65% in 2019. That same year, most 76% of eighth graders in the state werent proficient in math, up from 71% in 2019. From 2021-2022, 10% of high school students did not graduate on time, an increase from 9% in 2019, according to the report. Alabamas voluntary pre-K program has not achieved universal enrollment despite being recognized for its high quality. Alabama was able to show that students who went through pre-K education were less likely to need special education services and more likely to attend class when they entered K-12, Ross said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time they left that program, not only did they catch up, but they were ready for kindergarten, Ross said. And we could prove it. Kentucky Lantern is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kentucky Lantern maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jamie Lucke for questions: info@kentuckylantern.com. President Trumps vaunted dispatching of troops into Washington, D.C., has managed to be both buffoonish and authoritarian. Thus far it has involved little more than handfuls of National Guard members standing around and taking selfies. And yet Trump has accompanied it with genuinely alarming threats: This week he openly described the deployment as a dry run for more cities, and on Wednesday, he made things even worse, suggesting that he has the authority to take control of the D.C. police indefinitely without Congresss assent. (He doesnt.) But in this blending of autocracy and absurdity lies an opening for Democratsand a new letter sent by top Democrats to the Pentagon hints at what this might look like. The lettersigned by Representative Adam Smith and Senator Jack Reed, the ranking Democrats on the House and Senate Armed Services committeescalls on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to release internal communications involving discussions between the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security about the militarization of domestic law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter is a response to The New Republics recent report on an internal DHS memo outlining top Homeland Security officials desire for the military to get much more involved in domestic enforcement operations. That memo, authored by Philip Hegsetha senior adviser to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem who also happens to be Defense Secretary Hegseths younger brotherwas seen by national security experts as an alarming sign of Trumps intent to further escalate this hyper-militarization. Public reports indicate that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is pushing senior Department of Defense (DoD) officials to increase operational coordination in law enforcement activities, reads the letter, which TNR obtained. It warns that this continues to erode the line between defense activities and law enforcement. The defense secretary surely will throw this letter in the garbage. But, as hopeless as the prospects for real congressional oversight look right now, Democrats should make it absolutely clear that if they capture the House (and the Senate) in next years midterm elections, it will mean relentless scrutiny of every aspect of Trumps corrupt abuses of the military toward domestic political ends. Its particularly alarming the way Trump is merging Homeland Security and DOD into his personal domestic police force, Smith told me. If Democrats take back the House, we will exercise aggressive oversight to stop him from taking over the military and using it for domestic enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter from Smith and Reed also asks Defense Secretary Hegseth about a July 21 meeting that apparently took place between top DHS and Pentagon officials. As TNR reported, the DHS memo in question laid out the view of top DHS officials that the senior military leadership must be persuaded to get much more serious about their involvement in operations within the country, particularly on immigration. For instance, the memo stated that operations like Trumps dispatching of troops in cities like Los Angeles might be necessary for years to come. The memo also declared that the U.S. military leadership must be made to feel for the first time the urgency of defending the homeland and that they need to understand the threat. Experts told TNR that this hints at pressure by DHS on the Pentagon to get much more involved in domestic enforcement, potentially coordinated by the Hegseth brothers. All of which is exactly what Smith and Reed want to learn about. In the interest of transparency, please provide any DoD memos, guidance, or policy directives produced in connection with the DHS request for increased DoD participation in, and support for, DHS activities, the two Democrats wrote to Defense Secretary Hegseth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes as Trumps threats just got worse. He has dispatched the D.C. National Guard (which he already controls as president) throughout the city and has taken control of the D.C. police force. Trump has the authority to commandeer the Metropolitan Police Department for 30 days, but only for a declared federal purpose, and any longer requires congressional authorization. Yet Trump told reporters on Wednesday that he doesnt see this as binding. If its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress, he said. As it happens, he cant. Trump has no authority to utilize the D.C. police for longer than 30 days without an intervening Act of Congress, no matter what real or contrived emergency he purports to invoke, Georgetown law professor Stephen Vladeck told me. Though Trump did say he will seek authorization from Congress, that remains to be seenand regardless, it merely confirms that he envisions an indefinite presence. His stated rationale for this is pure propagandahe keeps lying about data on crime in the District, which is substantially downsuggesting he sees this as a test run not just for takeovers in more cities but also for his manufactured pretext for them. That context makes Trumps declaration that he has near-unlimited power for extended operations in emergencies even more menacing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has now made his true intent unmistakable. This will go further, he told reporters this week, drawing a direct link between the D.C. operation and his intention to use the military in blue-state cities like New York, Baltimore, and Oakland. All of which makes it more urgent that Democrats try to get to the bottom of what Homeland Security officials are envisioning in terms of future collaboration with the military. As Smith and Reed wrote: Americans do not need or want military personnel policing their streets. Using DoD resources for such activities diminishes the United States capacity to conduct defense activities and undermines public confidence in the Armed Forces as apolitical institutions. All this can coexist with the thought that Trumps military moves have a touch of absurdity to them. In the spirit of a recent suggestion from Brian Beutler, Democrats can ridicule Trumps transparent desire to see us quake in fear of his watch-me-play-fascist-dictator-on-TV routine while also vowing to shine a light into every last nook and cranny of his manufactured pretexts and illegal abuses of power in doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congressional letters from the minority are often mocked for their inherent toothlessness. But there is a place for this kind of display. It can alert the public to ongoing transgressions, and it can let the executive branch know that members of Congress have become aware ofand are on the lookout for more ofa particular abuse. These apparent talks between top DHS and Pentagon officials about future militarization of domestic enforcement badly need more scrutiny. Democrats should make it clear that if they are returned to power, they will deliver it, and no amount of Trumpian stonewalling will stand in their way. Alaska will take a rare step into the spotlight as it plays host to the high-stakes summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday, creating a key backdrop for a meeting the administration hopes will open a path towards ending the Ukraine war. The 49th state has usually taken a place on the periphery of U.S. national politics, especially in recent years. But the setting here is notable as Trump and Putin descend on the former Russian colony for a meeting the former has long sought as part of his promises to end the fighting in Eastern Europe. Alaskans believe it is fitting that talks between the two nations will come to their shores. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can see the impact of Russian colonialism on Alaska to this day, said Brandon Boylan, a political science professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. If President Trump was going to host President Putin in the U.S. and it wasnt going to be at the White House, Im actually not surprised its here in Alaska, given the very rich history that Alaska has between the two states, Boylan said. Despite its far-flung location, Alaska has played host to a number of key meetings throughout the years, headlined most recently by talks in 2021 between the Biden administration and Chinese officials that were punctuated by heated back-and-forths and angry words. In 1984, former President Reagan met with Pope John Paul II in Fairbanks amid the push to defeat the Soviet Union. Former President Nixon also met with Emperor Hirohito of Japan in 1971 in Anchorage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the upcoming sit-down with Putin may take the cake as most high-profile, given the lengthy history between Alaska and Russia. The first Russian settlers arrived in Alaska during the 18th century, with the Russian Empire laying claim to it starting in 1732. Alaska eventually became part of what was known as Russian America in 1799. Eventually, Alexander II sold Alaska to the U.S. for $7.2 million over fears that it would be conquered and taken over by the British. The sale was routinely mocked in Russian culture well into the 20th century as Alaskan riches and natural resources only became clear in the years after. Its roughly 50-mile proximity to Russia coupled with important roles on numerous fronts, including energy, puts Alaska in a prime spot to host the summit. No other place plays a more vital role in our national defense, energy security, and Arctic leadership, Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R) wrote on the social platform X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its fitting that discussions of global importance take place here. For centuries, Alaska has been a bridge between nations, and today, we remain a gateway for diplomacy, commerce, and security in one of the most critical regions on earth. The venue choice also makes sense on a number of other fronts. The International Criminal Court has a warrant out for Putins arrest stemming from the Ukraine war, but the U.S. does not recognize the court. The locale is also more straightforward for Putin, as it means he does not have to fly through potentially perilous parts of European airspace. Alaska is a beautiful state that is geographically convenient for both parties. It was an appropriate venue for President Trump to accept President Putins request to meet, a White House official told The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How much of the two presidents Alaskans will be able to see beyond their aircraft arriving and departing is unclear. The meeting is expected to take place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, which would be out of view from onlookers and likely protesters. However, the meeting also could have an outsized impact on Alaskans more broadly as sanctions placed on Russia have hit the state more acutely than numerous other states. The sanctions have not hurt Alaska directly, but the absence of communication and cooperation has, former Lt. Gov. Mead Treadwell (R) said in an interview. Treadwell specifically pointed to the changes in Russian fishing practices in the Bering Sea due in part to the sanctions, which have led to fewer and fewer fish turning up in the Yukon River in recent years, as one example. He also noted its become more difficult for those in Alaska to enter Russia to visit family members in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those practices wont change until relations are normalized, and that is impossible without an end to the war, Treadwell said. Its the tail wagging the dog in geopolitics for us to complain about it, Treadwell said. But Alaskans here are happy here that the president is making a bold move with this guy to say, Hey, how do we figure out peace? That hasnt happened. Boylan also pointed to the lasting signs of Russian influence across the state, particularly along the Aleutian Islands and in southeast Alaska where Russian settlements stood. There are also a number of Russian Orthodox churches, as well as a small Russian diaspora community. Notably, Putins appearance in Anchorage will make him the first Russian leader to set foot in Alaska a setting that was well received by top Moscow officials and the Russian state media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vladimir Dzhabarov, a Russian senator, labeled the venue choice very wise, adding it was very far from Ukraine. Yuri Ushakov, Putins aide on foreign affairs, also said in an audio message shared by the Kremlin on Telegram last week that the meetings setting is quite logical for our delegation to simply fly across the Bering Strait and for such an important and anticipated summit of the leaders of the two countries to be held specifically in Alaska. The big question, however, is what will eventually emerge from the meeting and whether it will be successful for Trump and the U.S. Little has been revealed about the talks outside of the city and that Trump and Putin plan to meet in a one-on-one setting. Trump also downplayed expectations in recent days, saying he is going to see what [Putin] has in mind, and will probably in the first two minutes know exactly whether or not a deal can get done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That hasnt stopped some in the state from pondering the potential historical significance if it yields success and is a key step toward a conclusion of the war. I was joking earlier this week that if this actually ends up in peace, it would be nice to be known as the Alaska Accords kind of like the Camp David Accords or something like that, historically, Treadwell said. The former lieutenant governor did acknowledge a downside, especially given Trumps previous sit-down with Putin the 2018 meeting in Helsinki where he sided with the Russian leader over the FBI on whether the Kremlin meddled in the 2016 presidential election. I think thats a risk all of us are willing to take, Treadwell said, pointing to the Kyoto Protocol in 1997 as an example. Theres some people who think Kyoto was the best thing for the world in addressing climate change, and theres others who spit when they say the word Kyoto. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One way or another, Kyotos still a beautiful city in a wonderful place to visit, he added. Brett Samuels contributed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. When Donald Trump looks into the eyes of Vladimir Putin this week and decides whether he is serious about peace, it will be in Alaska: the American state on the front line of a new Cold War between Moscow and Washington. The US has increasingly been forced to scramble warships and fighter jets since the invasion of Ukraine, with Russia and its ally China venturing ever closer to Alaskas coast. The Pentagon is looking at reopening its Cold War-era bases in the state in a move that would greatly expand its footprint in the region and signal a grasp for Arctic dominance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cold War is back, said Mark Hayward, a former army medic who lives in Nome, on Alaskas Seward Peninsula. And in many ways, its hotter than the Cold War was. The Arctics melting sea ice has opened up traditional chokepoints like the Bering Strait, which lies between Alaska and Russia. It has meant new trade routes, more opportunity for military movement by naval and submarine patrols, and sent superpowers scrambling to assert themselves in the region. US officials openly admit there has been an increase in Russian and Chinese activity the two often operate in tandem off the coast of Alaska since 2022. Late last month, Russian Tu-95 bombers and Su-35 fighters jets were intercepted by the US Air Force when they crossed into the Alaskan Air Defence Identification Zone (Adiz) though they steered clear of US air space. F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft intercept Russian TU-95 and Su-35 military aircraft over the Bering Sea on July 22, 2025 - US Department of Defence And that was only the most recent activity. There have been at least nine similar incidents across air and sea in the last two years involving Russia or China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Notably, in September 2024, a Russian Tu-95 cut across the nose of an American F-16 in a headbutt manoeuvre that brought both pilots feet from disaster. The US took the unusual step of condemning the unprofessional behaviour. Theyre in our airspace all the time, said Daniel Volland, an optometrist and member of Anchorages assembly. Theres always a vigilance. Alaska belonged to Russia until the mid-19th century, when it was bought by the US following negotiations led by the secretary of state, William H Seward. At the time, newspaper editorials condemned the decision as Sewards folly now, with superpowers jostling for dominance in the Arctic, the Alaska Purchase is one of Sewards crowning achievements. Mr Volland noted that those years of shared history had also brought suspicion among Alaskans of the imperial power of their westerly neighbour, which lies just three miles away at the narrowest points of the Bering Strait. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are very proximal to Russia. And there is a legacy of Russian colonialism, about history in Alaska, where they enslaved Alaska Native peoples, he said. A lot of that had to do with the fur trade and the extraction of natural resources that Russia wanted to do here in Alaska. I think that that colonial legacy is part of the scepticism some Alaskans have toward Russia. Beyond regular incursions by the Russian military, Mr Hayward said his community in Nome had suffered regular fibre optic cable outages since the start of the Ukraine war in Feb 2022. Its somehow mysteriously cut itself at times when theres not any ice movement, and at depths where no one should be touching it, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a small community up there talking to people who do the emergency response, theyll say: Look, this was not an accident. Somebody cut our cable, and they did it again, and they did it again. Mr Hayward volunteered in Ukraine shortly after the outbreak of war three years ago, initially planning to help as a combat medic but eventually putting together a team of volunteers to train Ukrainians to use Javelin and NLAW anti-tank missiles. Living in Alaska, with Russia increasingly making its presence felt, makes the conflict very personal, he said. The same Russia that is willing to invade its neighbour to the west with no provocation would be equally willing to sink our fuel barges and leave me and my friends to freeze to death in the dark in the Arctic winter, he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are doing what I would consider direct action missions against critical infrastructure in the Arctic. Nobody wants to call it what it is, but those are acts of war. The US is now seeking to assert itself in the Arctic and openly weighing up options for opening military bases that closed in the wake of the Cold War. One of them is Adak, a former air facility located between the Bering Sea and Pacific Ocean that was used for submarine surveillance and reconnaissance against the Soviet Union before being decommissioned in the 1990s. It boasts three piers, two 8,000-ft runways and one of the worlds largest fuel storage depots, and was recently used in military exercises as part of the armys Exercise Northern Edge. Experts believe it could be converted into a working base relatively easily. Another base under consideration is Eareckson Air Station, which like Adak is located on the remote Aleutian Islands chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, said in April that the military was evaluating how to reopen the facilities to enhance the USs presence in the Arctic. Doing so would give Washington time and distance on any invading force, he told senators at a briefing, because they would enable up to 10 times the maritime patrol reconnaissance aircraft coverage of that key and increasingly contested space. Adak Station was used for submarine surveillance and reconnaissance against the Soviet Union - public domain sourced / access rights from NB/ROD / Alamy Stock Photo Troy Bouffard, a former aide to Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, said reopening Adak would be a brilliant move. That island is in such a geographically strategic place. Its quite awesome you can put lots of sensors there so you detect things way before they get to you, said Dr Bouffard, now assistant Professor of Arctic Security at University of Alaska Fairbanks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And if you ever zoom in on that thing on Google satellites, youll be surprised how much is on that island, including that long runway. It is really well developed. Putin will land in Alaska on Friday to meet with Mr Trump at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, on the northern edge of Anchorage, according to CNN. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson on Friday - Cpl. Grant Schirmer/Digital Mr Hayward believes the Alaska senators, Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, understand the stakes of the summit and why emboldening Putin would be a disaster for Alaska as well as Ukraine. Of Mr Trump he is less certain. Russia is the biggest threat to world peace and the biggest threat to Alaska since the Nazis were sending ski teams up above the Arctic Circle during the Second World War, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, he continued, Mr Trump needs to be extremely careful that Anchorage doesnt enter the lexicon of appeasement the way Munich did in 1938. 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. Alaska, the US state that will host the meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump on Friday, is a source of imperial nostalgia and often less-than-serious territorial claims in Russia. The territory that Russia sold to the United States in 1867 is now a symbol of the entwined history of the countries, whose relations have been severely damaged since Russia launched its offensive in Ukraine in 2022. To some experts, the summit in Alaska evoked memories of the thaw between the Soviet Union and the United States during the Cold War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a classically orchestrated summit, like in the era of detente," Russian political scientist Fyodor Lukyanov said on Telegram. "Its symbolic significance is the absence of intermediaries: the powers, so to speak, decide for themselves," he added, saying that China is "not close" to Alaska and that Europe is "as far away as possible". - Fur trading hub - But beyond being a unique meeting place, Alaska also fuels Russian memories of the Tsarist empire, the historic predecessor of the Soviet Union. "For Russia, Alaska symbolises the peak of an expansion," Alexander Baunov, senior fellow at the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said on the centre's website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was "when the Russian continental empire had, for the only time, succeeded in crossing an ocean like the European empires", Baunov said. A Russian colony since the 18th century, Alaska was eventually sold to the United States for $7.2 million in 1867 by Tsar Alexander II. The remote territory was economically very difficult for the Russians to exploit and at the time its sale was welcomed by the Imperial Court as the country was struggling economically. But the transaction later came to be seen as a regrettable bargain after what formerly was a fur trading hub turned out to house crucial natural resources: gold and oil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'Our bears' - In recent years, the price at which Alaska was sold, considered by some to be ridiculously low, and the legal validity of the transaction have become regularly recurring debates in Russia. In July 2022, in the midst of patriotic fervour in Russia and as tensions soared between Moscow and Washington following the offensive against Ukraine, the Alaska issue resurfaced. The speaker of the Duma, the lower house of the Russian Parliament, Vyacheslav Volodin, spoke of "lands to be returned", describing Alaska as a "disputed territory". Russia's authorities are apparently not interested in reclaiming it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2014, Vladimir Putin, asked by a pensioner about the possibility, replied: "My dear, why do you need Alaska?" adding the territory was "too cold". Still, the idea of reclaiming Alaska is an endless source of memes widely circulating on Russian social media. One of the most famous claims that "our soul" suffered from the loss of Alaska because "it's where our bears live". The recapture of Alaska is even mentioned in a 1990s hit by a rock band Putin likes, Lyube, with the lyrics: "Stop messing around, America... And give back our Alaskan lands." bur/phz (Courtesy: DeKalb Co. Emergency Management) (Courtesy: DeKalb Co. Emergency Management) (Courtesy: DeKalb Co. Emergency Management) DEKALB COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), has closed a portion of I-59 South in DeKalb County due to a development of a sinkhole on Thursday. DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency said that the closure is taking place at I-59 South at mile marker 205. ALEA told News 19 that a construction project is underway and has caused a closure of the southbound lanes of I-59. Authorities said that the closure will be in place for an undetermined amount of time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Traffic is being detoured from I-59 Southbound at Exit 205 to AL-68 to US-11. According to ALDOT, repairs should take 4-6 hours . The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. Stay connected with News 19 as we will continue to update the story as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. Alex Jones far-right platfo rm Infowars can be sold once again to help pay the more than $1 billion he owes the families of Sandy Hook shooting victims, a Texas district court judge has ordered. Judge Maya Guerra Gamble said in a Wednesday hearing that Infowars parent company, Free Speech Systems, will be turned over to a court-appointed receiver, who will be responsible for selling the assets and using the proceeds to pay Jones debts to the Sandy Hook families. The order paves the way for The Onion to revive its bid for the conspiracy-driven outlet and its assets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the satirical news outlet had initially won a court-mandated auction for Infowars parent company, backed by the Sandy Hook families. However, in December, a federal bankruptcy judge halted the sale, citing concerns with the auction process and disputes over the bids. The judge later said the families should pursue what theyre owed in state court rather than at the federal level. Jones was found guilty in 2022 for defamation after repeatedly claiming on-air that the 2012 Sandy Hook massacre, in which six adults and 20 children were killed, was a hoax. He has yet to pay a single cent of the more than $1 billion in damages he owes the families. On his show Wednesday, Jones railed against the families and said he was pissed off over the ruling although he acknowledged being resigned to the fact that Infowars will likely have to shut down. Jones is free to keep broadcasting his show, and he has said he will do so under a different brand. Attorneys for the victims families, meanwhile, celebrated Wednesdays ruling. Todays order brings us a critically important step closer to achieving the goal that the Connecticut families have spent years fighting for: holding Alex Jones accountable for years of harm, said Chris Mattei, an attorney for the Connecticut-based families. The receiver is now authorized to liquidate his business assets, and we look forward to the corrupt media empire that Jones built finally being dismantled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mark Bankston, an attorney for the Texas-based families, added that they pleased with the ruling, which will finally lead to accountability for Alex Jones monstrously cruel harassment. The Onion had planned to turn Infowars into a humorous send-up of the conspiracy-driven right-wing media ecosystem that allows figures like Jones to flourish. Their plans have also included an exclusive advertising agreement with Everytown for Gun Safety, a gun-control advocacy group. The Onion did not comment on the latest developments, but the outlet has previously stated that it was open to all options and plans to keep pursuing the sale. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones may finally lose his Infowars platform years after he was ordered to pay more than $1 billion to the families of the Sandy Hook school shooting victims. Texas Judge Maya Guerra Gamble ordered Infowars assets to be turned over to a newly appointed state receiver on Wednesday. That receiver will then sell the assets including studio equipment like cameras, desks and microphones, and the Infowars brand name to pay the families of victims of the 2012 Connecticut school shooting. Related: Man Stopped By Border Patrol Voices Guilt About Voting For Trump, Joins Lawsuit The receiver is appointed ... with authority to take possession of all the Turnover Property, sell the Turnover Property and pay the proceeds to [Sandy Hook families] to the extent required to satisfy the judgment, Gambles court order read. Related: U.S. Producer Prices Surge In July As Trump Tariffs Push Costs Higher Jones was ordered to pay more than $1 billion over two separate defamation trials in 2022. For years, he had used Infowars as a platform to falsely claim that the shooting that left 20 kids and 6 adults dead was a staged plot and that their bereaved families were crisis actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a trial in Connecticut, Nicole Hockley, whose 6-year-old son Dylan was killed, testified that people harassed her by sending pictures of dead children as she mourned the death of her own. Related: DC Man Who Threw Sub At CBP Officer Has Been Fired From Justice Department Job I got sent pictures of dead kids because [harassers said] as a crisis actor I didnt know what dead kids looked like, Hockley testified. As the harassment poured in for grieving family members, Jones was turning a profit from their suffering. Records first obtained by HuffPost in 2022 revealed that Jones Infowars store, which sells supplements and survival gear, had spikes in sales on days when he brought up Sandy Hook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since losing his defamation cases three years ago, Jones has managed to avoid paying the families he victimized. In November, the satirical news website The Onion was set to purchase Infowars as part of a bankruptcy auction. Those hopes were dashed in December after a federal judge rejected the auction sale, citing a lack of transparency in the auction process. Related: Satirical News Outlet The Onion Buys Alex Jones' Infowars At Auction But Wednesdays ruling means The Onion might have another opportunity to seize the Infowars brand for itself. Ben Collins, CEO of The Onions parent company, Global Tetrahedron, suggested on Bluesky that the company is still interested in purchasing Jones site. Were working on it, Collins posted. Thats all I can say for now. Subscribe to The Onion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his Thursday Infowars broadcast, Jones said the defamation trials were rigged. Heres just a little reminder, though: They dont want money in their fake, rigged, Sandy Hook trials run by Democrats, Jones said. No, they want me off the air. Jones rambled about the latest court developments throughout the episode, taking breaks to hawk supplements and silver coins of President Donald Trump. He vowed to make an even bigger studio and to broadcast 20 hours a day, and claimed to be working on his own documentary about the trials. At several points, cigarette smoke could be seen rising from just below Jones desk, which may not be his for much longer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked for comment by HuffPost, Jones texted: Just watch the show. Texas attorney Mark Bankston, who represented parents Scarlett Lewis and Neil Heslin in Jones first Sandy Hook trial, said the selling off of Infowars will finally give the families some closure. The families are relieved that the final chapter of this saga has arrived at last, Bankston said in a statement to HuffPost. This new receivership will help provide them with the closure theyve been denied for over a decade. As attorneys, we could not be more proud of each and every one of them, who have all endured so much in their long fight for accountability. Related... Read the original on HuffPost The man accused of killing a married couple while they were on a hiking trip with their kids in Arkansas July 26 is being looked at for possible involvement in other murders. Arkansas State Police allege Andrew James McGann killed Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, and Clinton David Brink, 43, while the couple was taking their children hiking at Devil's Den State Park in Washington County, Arkansas. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Thursday morning, according to 5 News. Speaking outside of the courtroom, Washington County Prosecuting Attorney Brandon Carter said he's still planning to seek the death penalty against McGann, adding it will be a long process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is where the hard part begins and the long walk begins to get this case to justice," Carter said. Col. Mike Hagar, Arkansas State Police director, said McGann confessed to the killings, adding they were stabbed to death in a "completely random event." "We have no reason to believe there was any known association between our suspect and our victims," Hagar said. "During an interview with investigators, the suspect admitted to committing the murders. We also executed a search warrant at his residence and recovered items consistent with the crime." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Death Penalty Possible After 'Random' Hiking Murders Left Children Without Mom And Dad: Former Prosecutor Clinton and Cristen Brink were murdered at Devil's Den State Park July 26, 2025. Hagar said DNA was used to link McGann to the couple's death. McGann, who has held several schoolteacher positions in the Southeast over several years, is also being looked at for possible involvement in the murders of people in Vermont and Wisconsin. A detective from the Sauk County Sheriffs Office in Wisconsin told Fox News Digital his agency has received tips regarding a "possible connection" between the July 26 incident and a separate Oct. 14, 2020, incident in Devils Lake State Park, where John Craig Schmutzer was stabbed while hiking on the Grottos Trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family Vacation Hotspot On Edge After Parents Randomly Murdered In Front Of Their Kids John Craig Schmutzer was killed in 2020. The detective said police are trying to determine if there's any link between McGann and the death of Schmutzer. "Weve received many tips, both from citizens in Arkansas and Wisconsin, regarding the Devils Den Homicide and the possible connection to our homicide from October 2020," Det. Sgt. Drew Bulin told Fox News Digital. "Weve been in contact with Arkansas investigators and will be working to determine if the similarities are a coincidence or if there is something more." According to ABC 7 News, McGann grew up in Chicago's Garfield Ridge neighborhood, which is about three hours from Devil's Lake State Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sauk County Sheriff's Office said Schmutzer's killer was roughly 6 feet tall with a "slender to average build." Jail records from Washington County, Arkansas, indicate McGann is 6 feet tall. The Vermont State Police said in an Aug. 7 press release that detectives reached out to law enforcement in Arkansas to discuss the death of Honoree Fleming, whose body was found on the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail in Castleton. "After the Vermont State Police learned of the recent double homicide of a couple on a hiking trail in Arkansas and the arrest of a suspect, VSP detectives took the routine step of contacting their counterparts in Arkansas to discuss the case," the Vermont State Police wrote. "At this time, there is no known link between the suspect in that case and the Honoree Fleming homicide, or to Vermont in general." Honoree Fleming, a biologist and former dean of education at the Vermont State University Castleton Campus, sits at her computer in an undated family photo. She was found shot dead on a hiking trail near the school Oct. 5, and police are asking for the public's help finding a suspect. Shane Wilkinson, a criminal defense attorney and former chief deputy prosecutor of Benton County, Arkansas, told Fox News Digital he thinks law enforcement agencies with unsolved hiking murders are likely taking a look at McGann. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think anybody that has an unsolved hiking trail murder, they're probably taking note of this right now," Wilkinson said. Former homicide Det. Ted Williams told Fox News Digital McGann's alleged murder has "raised a great deal of red flags all over the country." Click To Get The Fox News App Special agents with the Arkansas State Police arrested James Andrew McGann, 28, of Springdale, in a July 26, 2025, double homicide at Devils Den State Park. "I would have to believe not only are law enforcement in Wisconsin and Vermont interested in McGann. But they also interested him all over this country because of the manner in which he was alleged to have stabbed this couple to death," Williams said. "And the manner in which he stabbed this couple there in Devil's Den State Park would lead any law enforcement agency that has a similar situation, where someone has been stabbed to death, to definitely wanna look into Andrew McGann." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox News Digital's Michael Ruiz contributed to this report. Original article source: Alleged Devil's Den killer investigated in multiple unsolved murders across US that have one thing in common NEED TO KNOW Andrew McGann, the alleged Devil's Den State Park killer, pleaded not guilty to the murders of Clinton and Cristen Brink The Brinks were murdered on July 26 while on a hike with their young daughters, aged 7 and 9, who survived Arkansas state prosecutors have said they plan to seek the death penalty against McGann, who faces two capital murder charges The man accused of killing a husband and wife while they were hiking with their two young daughters last month has pleaded not guilty, setting up whats expected to be a lengthy court trial that could lead to his execution if convicted, according to prosecutors. Andrew McGann pleaded not guilty Thursday morning to killing Clinton and Cristen Brink while they were hiking with their two young daughters at Devils Den State Park in northwest Arkansas on July 26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washington County Prosecutor Brandon Carter vowed Thursday that the state will pursue the death penalty against McGann, whom prosecutors wrote in a preliminary report had confessed to the Brinks murders after he was arrested on July 30, according to local THV 11. "The defendant in this case is innocent until he's proven guilty, but I'm confident that we have the right defendant in this case, and the public need not worry going forward," Carter said, according to the outlet. PEOPLE previously reported that McGann, a 28-year-old former teacher, had been charged with two counts of capital murder in connection with the Brinks killing. Arkansas Department of Public Safety Andrew McGann Andrew McGann Clinton, 43, and Cristen, 41, were fatally attacked while hiking with their girls, aged 7 and 9, who were not injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family had just moved to the state about three weeks before the murders, NBC News reported, citing Clintons sister Katrina Hutchins. McGann too had recently moved to Arkansas from Oklahoma, the outlet reported, citing Arkansas State Police Major Stacie Rhoads. Were still exploring and determining exactly what that motive [for the killings] was, Rhoads said. McGanns next court date is set for Nov. 14. He is currently being held without bond, according to THV 11. Meanwhile, county prosecutors warned that McGanns criminal trial could take multiple years. "I anticipate this will be lengthy litigation," Carter said, according to THV 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The state is going to pursue the death penalty in this case," Carter continued. "I've never been involved in a death penalty case that didn't last multiple years, so I anticipate lengthy litigation in this case going forward. I would tell the public it will be slower than you think it will be." Read the original article on People FORT STEWART, Ga. (WSAV) The alleged Fort Stewart shooter was seemingly involved in an intimate relationship with one of the male victims and self-reported the man as his husband just months before the shooting, according to a report WSAV acquired. The alleged shooter, Sgt. Quornelius Radford, was arrested by a Georgia State Patrol (GSP) trooper for driving under the influence on May 18, just weeks before he allegedly opened fire on Fort Stewart. In the GSP report, the arresting trooper said Radfords car was released to a man that Radford self- reported to be his husband. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, according to court records from Liberty County, that man was already married to a person who sources said identifies as female and was in the process of finalizing a divorce from her. Quornelius Radford Court records showed the divorce between the man Radford referred to as his husband back in May and that mans wife was finalized on Aug. 5, one day before the shooting at Fort Stewart. Though Radford told GSP that the man who took custody of his car was his husband, a source with knowledge of the investigation said Radford was only known only as an acquaintance to the man, with the potential for a relationship. That source said Radfords self-reported husband was one of the shooting victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Radford is being charged with domestic violence by the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel, and their office also confirmed one of the victims was Radfords intimate partner. Husband, wife accused of allegedly starving child to death at Fort Stewart indicted The new development comes amidst reports that Radford was bullied for a stutter during his time at Fort Stewart. WSAV spoke with a soldier who recently left Fort Stewart who shed more light on these claims. He was essentially just the bottom of the pecking order and not handling it wellHe was known for being pretty aggressive with a soldier and pretty extreme behavior and he was known for a heavy stutter, the person, who requested to remain anonymous, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Radford has been transferred to Joint Base Charleston for pre-trial confinement. He was pretty much just made fun of, and instead of doing literally anything else he could have done, he took the extreme option, the soldier 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 WSAV-TV. WASHINGTON The White House responded to what it called a bombshell report accusing Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., of intentionally leaking classified information to attack President Donald Trump. It marks the latest in whats been a yearslong war between the two prominent politicians. The latest allegations were revealed in a Just The News report showing testimony from a Democratic whistleblower who previously worked for the House Intelligence Committee for more than a decade under then-Rep. Schiff who said the California lawmaker personally greenlit the leaking of classified documents about the Russiagate investigation. The leaks were intended to smear Trump, the former staffer alleged, according to FBI memos obtained by the outlet and sent to Congress by FBI Director Kash Patel earlier this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is obviously a bombshell whistleblower report, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday. Hopefully more people in this room will cover it as such. The push to release classified information allegedly occurred in 2017 when Schiff was among those in Congress demanding to investigate whether Russia interfered with the 2016 election resulting in Trumps first victory. The staffer first warned the FBI about the leak in 2017, according to the memos, and then again in 2023. The staffer said he personally attended a meeting during which 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, according to the documents obtained by Just The News. Schiff denied the allegations, telling the Deseret News in a statement that the allegations are 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, Schiff said. Even Trumps own Justice Department and an independent inspector general found this individual to not be credible, have little support for their contentions and was of unknown reliability, and concluded that his accusations against Members of Congress and congressional staff were not ultimately substantiated. Trump and Schiff have history of feuding The scuffle is the latest in a long line of attacks between Trump and Schiff, who even received his own nickname from the president years ago: Shifty Schiff. Their feud largely began in 2017, when Schiff raised calls to investigate the 2016 election for interference by the Russian government to help the president, prompting Trump to call the then-California representative sleazy and totally biased. Schiff was later censured by his Republican colleagues in the House in 2023 over accusations that he intentionally misled the country with the Trump-Russia investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their feud intensified in 2019 when Schiff helped launch an impeachment inquiry into Trump over allegations he pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate then-presidential candidate Joe Bidens family while they ran against each other in the 2020 election. Trump was later impeached by the House in December 2019 on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. Trump was later acquitted by the Senate. But that didnt stop him from railing against Schiff on Twitter, now known as X, calling him a CORRUPT POLITICIAN, and probably a very sick man. He has not paid the price, yet, for what he has done to our Country! Trump wrote. Aside from the whistleblower report, Schiff is also currently facing an investigation by the Department of Justice for alleged mortgage fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adam Schiff said that his primary residence was in MARYLAND to get a cheaper mortgage and rip off America, when he must LIVE in CALIFORNIA because he was a Congressman from CALIFORNIA, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social in July. Mortgage Fraud is very serious, and CROOKED Adam Schiff (now a Senator) needs to be brought to justice. Schiff seems to relish Trumps anger, telling late night host Stephen Colbert last month its a deliberate campaign to frighten people into submission. Ever since I led his first impeachment, hes threatened me with jail and prosecution and called me a traitor, accuse me of treason, Schiff said. Blah, blah, blah. He coerced Republicans into censuring me in the House, and now this is the latest attack on me. The state temporarily shut nine South Florida restaurants last week with violations ranging from objectionable odors and almost 200 rodent droppings in a kitchen to about 100 live flies flying around and landing on unwashed potatoes and onions. The Sun Sentinel typically highlights restaurant inspections conducted by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation in Broward and Palm Beach counties. We cull through inspections that happen weekly and spotlight places ordered shut for high-priority violations, such as improper food temperatures or dead cockroaches. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any restaurant that fails a state inspection must stay closed until it passes a follow-up. If you spot a possible violation and wish to file a complaint, contact Florida DBPR. (But please dont contact us: The Sun Sentinel doesnt inspect restaurants.) PALM BEACH COUNTY Line Caribbean Restaurant 214 SE Second Ave., Delray Beach Ordered shut: Aug. 7 Why: 14 violations (four high-priority), including: About 190 rodent droppings in kitchen areas such as underneath reach in-freezer , reach-in cooler, three-compartment sink and cooking equipment, on flour, rice and food container lids and on cleaned container. Nine live flies around the kitchen, including in the garbage can and around utensils in storage area. Stop sale ordered for meat marinade and tomato pesto because of mold-like growth. Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris throughout kitchen. Objectionable odors in kitchen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Status: Reopened Aug. 8 after a follow-up inspection found one intermediate violation. Aroma Indian Cuisine 731 Village Blvd., Suite 110, West Palm Beach Ordered shut: Aug. 6 Why: Seven violations (three high-priority), including: About 30 roaches in kitchen crawling on shelves over prep table and on wall next to dish machine. About 100 flies in kitchen flying around/landing on unwashed potatoes and onions. At walk-in cooler, raw lamb stored over cooked potato dumplings. Status: Closed Aug. 7 after a follow-up inspection found two high-priority violations. Reopened later that day after a third visit found no violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CocoCabana Bar & Grill 2944 S. Jog Road, Greenacres Ordered shut: Aug. 6 Why: Five high-priority violations, including: About 62 rodent droppings found on lid to uncooked beans storage container, under dishwashing machine, under three-compartment sink, under dry seasoning storage rack, under canned goods storage rack, on top of sealed packages of single-service napkins and cup trays, on floor under oven and in front of stove, inside rinse sink to dish machine and in customer dinning room under booth next to DJ stand. One live roach crawling on floor in front of dry seasoning rack. Stop sale ordered for house-made chicken stock due to temperature abuse. Inside reach-in cooler, raw salmon stored directly above cooked goat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Status: Reopened Aug. 7 after a second inspection found no violations. Tradicion Michoacana 4556 Cresthaven Blvd., West Palm Beach Ordered shut: Aug. 6 Why: Four violations (two high-priority), including: 14 rodent droppings under ice cream machine in back kitchen, between white and stainless steel freezer units in back kitchen against wall and between freezer and ice cream topping unit at front counter. Employee used cellphone and began working with clean equipment without washing hands in between. Status: Reopened Aug. 7 after a follow-up inspection found no violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Souvlaki Fast (inside Tanger Outlets) 1741 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., Suite F01, West Palm Beach Ordered shut: Aug. 4 Why: 14 violations (six high-priority), including: About seven roaches crawling on clean and sanitized dishes, dish storage rack and wall next to the dishes. About nine dead roaches on floor in front of mop sink, under oven in kitchen and by soda dispenser on floor. About 12 live flies on rim of open iced tea machine full of tea, on soda syrup dispenser machine and tomato on floor under shelf in kitchen and landing on electrical cable from ceiling. Stop sale ordered for iced tea because of the fly landing on containers rim. In walk-in cooler, raw chicken stored above raw beef. Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Employee handled cash payment and, without washing hands, began to prepare souffle cups of portioned sauces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Status: Closed Aug. 5 after a second inspection found six violations (three high-priority). Reopened later that day after a third visit found three violations (one high-priority); a follow-up inspection was required. BROWARD COUNTY Tarka Karahi and Kabab House 7881 W. Sample Road, Coral Springs Ordered shut: Aug. 6 Why: 12 violations (two high-priority), including: 10 rodent droppings by kitchens two-door stainless refrigerator, underneath dry storage shelves and by cookline cooking equipment. Raw chicken over ready-to-eat sauce in walk-in cooler. Dish area covered with standing water. Observed cooked foods in walk-in cooler not covered. Wall soiled with food debris behind cooking equipment in kitchen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Status: Reopened Aug. 7 after a follow-up visit found six violations (one high-priority). The Original Pancake House 2851 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale Ordered shut: Aug. 7 Why: Five violations (one high-priority), including: Four live roaches on wall behind flip-top cooler next to hand-wash sink on cookline and under Atosa Freezer in prep area. Five dead roaches on floor under flip-top cooler next to hand-wash sink. Status: Reopened Aug. 8 after a second inspection found no violations. Sugar Bae 8253 Sunset Strip, Fort Lauderdale Ordered shut: Aug. 6 Why: 10 violations (three high-priority), including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 11 roaches crawling on dish-washing machine, on wall behind double-decker oven and in kitchen behind water fountain. Time/temperature issue involved precooked turkey. Employee with artificial nails/nail polish working with exposed food without wearing intact gloves. Observed operator touch precooked turkey with bare hand while wearing nail polish. Observed accumulation of black substances buildup on cutting board in kitchen. Observed floor surface covered with standing water in bar. Status: Reopened Aug. 7 after a second visit found five violations (one high-priority), with a follow-up inspection required. A reinspection later that day found three intermediate violations that required another follow-up visit. Tower Deli 2315 S. University Drive, Davie Ordered shut: Aug. 4 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why: 13 violations (seven high-priority), including: About 25 flies in prep area landing on garbage and clean dishes, at dry storage landing on cans and single-use items, on cookline landing on cooked potatoes and raw shell eggs and at front counter landing on cut vegetables and packaged bread. Stop sale ordered for cooked potatoes and raw shell eggs because of fly activity. Time/temperature issues involved diced tomatoes, sliced cheese, raw salmon and cooked vegetables. Observed burn cream stored over flip-top cutting board on cook line, and Windex over single-use spoons in dry storage area and over food storage bags at front counter. Floor near walk-in freezer covered in standing water. Status: Reopened later that day after a reinspection found one intermediate violation; another follow-up visit was required. ALTUS (KFDX/KJTL) The Altus Police Department is looking for help identifying a person who may have been involved in a recent vehicle burglary. Officers are searching for the man in the footage seen looking into cars in the 1700 block of North Hudson Street in Altus. APD is asking anyone who may know who this is to report the information to the station by calling (580) 482-4121 or messaging them privately on Facebook. Your report can remain anonymous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. ST. LOUIS Ameren needs to feel the heat was the chant many St. Louisans echoed at Amerens Missouri headquarters on Wednesday. Demonstrators rallied for action, demanding the utility extend its moratorium on shutoffs and forgive debt for residents hit by the May 16 tornado. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Some of the most energy-burdened census tracts in our area include homes destroyed by the May 16 tornado, demonstrator Jenn DeRose, involved with the Sierra Club, said. The only thing stopping Ameren from cutting people off right now is Missouris hot weather law and that ends as soon as the temperatures drop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sierra club, Tenants Transforming Greater St. Louis and others signed a letter to Ameren CEO Marty Lyons, urging him to pause all disconnections through Dec. 31 in the tornado zone and forgive utility debt for affected households. Connie Taylor of Ameren Missouri spoke with FOX 2 regarding protestors urging assistance from the company. Are mens wedding cloaks the next big thing in fashion? All along our response has been to provide solutions and provide options that help to meet the need immediate and long-term needs of our customers, Taylor said. Tornado survivor Sonny Hutton, who was also at the event, says the fight is personal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ameren has the power to pause disconnection at least until the end of the year and forgive our debts because right now our resources need to go to rebuilding our community, Hutton said. Ameren Missouri, however, says it has already taken steps to help storm victims. Weve partnered with trusted agencies like the Urban League, Cool Down St. Louis, United Way and the Salvation Army to arm them with funds and get dollars to help pay off bills. Assistance is available right now, Taylor said. Ameren also noted that customers can call the utility or its agency partners directly, and that with smart meter technology, power can be restored quickly once bills are resolved. Available resources can be found here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. Former Idaho Lt. Gov. David Leroy speaks to the America250 in Idaho Advisory Council on Aug. 13 at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise. (Clark Corbin/Idaho Capital Sun) A committee of Idaho legislators and state officials planning the America250 in Idaho celebrations voted on Wednesday to spend up to $20,000 promoting upcoming celebrations planned for July 4, 2026. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a meeting at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise, the America250 in Idaho Advisory Council voted to spend the money through an ambassadors program that Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth is heading up. The advisory council is focusing its time and funding on promoting and supporting celebrations planned for next summer that are tied to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence being signed in 1776. This is such a big deal for us as a nation, said Rep. Brandon Mitchell, a Moscow Republican who serves as co-chair of the advisory council. In our state we want to really lead the nation and show what we can do here in Idaho. Funding America250 celebrations across the state of Idaho The committee also approved a similar $20,000 funding request from Ellsworth at its previous meeting in June, Ellsworth said. So far, money has gone toward printing and promotional materials like a video, buttons, binders, cards, pouches, cellophane bags and other materials. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the $20,000 for the ambassadors program, the America250 in Idaho Advisory Council is also awarding $250,000 through its celebration fund via grants of up to $2,500 each to support local cities and counties America 250 celebrations in Idaho, the Idaho Capital Sun previously reported. Idaho Secretary of State Phil McGrane said the city of American Falls recently became the first Idaho community to submit an application for grant funding. Applications are still being accepted, and information about how city and county officials can apply for grant funding is available on the America250 in Idaho website. The focus on community celebrations and events promoting America250 in Idaho represents the new direction the advisory committee has been heading since spring. In March, legislators serving on the advisory committee cancelled grants for 29 different nonprofits and arts organizations after they said they wanted to be hyperfocused on America250 celebrations and patriotic celebrations of the founding of this country, the Sun previously reported. Idaho state treasurer sends patriotic potato commission dolls across the state As part of the ambassador program, Ellsworth has also designed and made costumes for nine Revolutionary Spuddy Buddy plush dolls by hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies travel with legislators or members of the advisory committee to public events around the state like Fourth of July parades, rodeos, fairs and festivals to generate hype for the America250 in Idaho celebrations. At each event, the Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies ambassadors travel with a piece of a symbolic Declaration of Independence scroll that Idahoans can sign their name to before it is unfurled from the top of the Idaho State Capitol next year. The Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies have their own names, like Spud Revere; trading cards; and back stories. Ellsworth admits it sounds silly, but she said people are going crazy for the Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies, and everybody always wants to take their picture with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its our way to heighten America 250, Ellsworth said. Its been very, very fun, very loved and very responded to by everybody. Idaho State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth poses for a photo at the Idaho State Capitol with four Revolutionary Spuddy Buddy dolls that she dressed in custom costumes made by hand. (Photo by Clark Corbin/Idaho Capital Sun) Ellsworth told the Sun she spent her own money making the Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies and buying the materials for their custom costumes. The Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies are based on the Idaho Potato Commissions Spuddy Buddy mascot. Each Revolutionary Spuddy Buddy is about two to three feet high and takes up to 10 hours to make and dress, said Ellsworth, who learned to sew as a child and said she has a knack for making dolls and costumes. Eventually she plans for there to be 16 Revolutionary Spuddy Buddies in her collection. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A man accused of faking his death and fleeing the country to avoid facing sexual assault charges was convicted Wednesday of first-degree felony rape. The verdict in the 2008 rape case came after a three-day trial in which the accuser and her parents testified. Nicholas Rossi, who refused to testify on his own behalf, is set to be sentenced Oct. 20 and faces five years to life in prison under Utah law. He is also slated to stand trial in September for a Utah County rape. "We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place," said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. "We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities identified Rossi from a decade-old DNA rape kit in 2018, according to the Associated Press. He was charged as Utah was working to clear its rape kit backlog. A Man Extradited From Scotland Continues To Claim He's Not The Person Charged In 2 Utah Rape Cases Rossi, who is from Rhode Island, returned to his home state before fleeing the U.S. While in Rhode Island, Rossi told reporters he had late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Later, an online obituary stated that Rossi had died in February 2020, though several people close to him cast doubt on his death. Read On The Fox News App He was arrested in Scotland in 2021 when hospital staff recognized his tattoos from an Interpol notice. However, Rossi claimed he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who had never been to the U.S. This was one of many aliases investigators say Rossi used. He was extradited to Utah in January 2024. Nicholas Rossi departs Edinburgh Sheriff Court after his extradition hearing on July 12, 2023, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Us Rape Suspect Accused Of Faking Death, Fleeing To Scotland Is Booked In Utah Jail Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim said she met Rossi whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian as she was recovering from a traumatic brain injury. The Associated Press reported that the victim answered a personal ad Rossi posted on Craigslist. The relationship progressed quickly, and they were engaged just two weeks after meeting, according to the Associated Press. "He was very charming and seemed very interested in school and politics and music, and he was just very nice to me," the victim told the jury, according to Fox 13 Salt Lake City. Utah Cold Case Solved 40 Years After 18-Year-old Womans Murder Thanks To Dna Sample, Police Say The victim recalled being asked to pay for dates, Rossis car repairs, and even their engagement rings. She also said she had to lend Rossi $1,000 so he wouldnt be evicted from his apartment. Rossis lawyers apparently tried to paint the victim as being resentful and seeking revenge for being put in this financial position. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi later raped the victim in his bedroom one night after the victim drove him home, according to her testimony. She cited her parents dismissive response as the reason she did not come forward at the time. Her father from whom she is estranged, allegedly for reasons unrelated to Rossi said that if his daughter told him she had been raped, he didnt hear it, according to Fox 13 Salt Lake City. The victim said she decided to come forward years later after seeing a news report stating that Rossi was accused of another rape. Rossi is accused of raping another former girlfriend at his apartment in September 2008 when she came to his apartment to get money she claimed he stole from her to buy a computer. Though Rossi will not stand trial in this case until next month, the victim testified Tuesday in the Salt Lake City case about her experience with the now-convicted rapist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Utah County victim went to police at the time of the alleged rape to report Rossi, who later claimed in an interview with authorities that she had raped him and threatened to have him killed. It remains to be seen how this will play out in court next month. Original article source: American accused of faking death, fleeing US found guilty of raping former girlfriend (KRON) Two firefighters in American Canyon were injured Wednesday night while attacking a two-alarm house fire, according to the American Canyon Fire Protection District. Fire crews responded shortly after 10 p.m. to the 100 block of Goldfinch Avenue on the report of a residential fire. Arriving firefighters found an active fire inside the home and began a coordinated and rapid response, officials said. The residents were alerted to the fire by smoke alarms and safely got out unharmed. The blaze was contained within the home without further spread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Martinez landfill company slapped with lawsuit over harmful emissions This marks the second time in less than a week that properly working smoke alarms have played a critical role in alerting occupants to danger and saving lives in American Canyon, ACFPD said. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries. On Thursday, officials said the two were in good condition. Crews remained at the residence overnight to monitor conditions. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. There is currently a two-pronged attack on higher education, research, and scholarship in the United States. Activists inside universities have hijacked many administrative functions, and significant reform is needed to ensure free speech, open inquiry, and the integrity of scholarship. But the Trump administration has used this fact to launch what may be a more dangerous direct attack on university scientific and research infrastructures across the nation. We can't afford to lose either war if we are to protect the country's scientific integrity and productivity. Harvard University epitomizes the quandary we now find ourselves in. Over the last decade, it succumbed to much of the modern culture war in ways that have threatened faculty and students, and even prospective students. Students and researchers have alleged that Harvard has discriminated against Asian applicants, rigorously policed speech, and punished faculty whose research results didn't match preconceived notions about racism or who stated that there are only two sexes, while allowing antisemitic conduct. In addition, the university promoted staff based on identity rather than academic accomplishments, including those known to have plagiarized academic work, while discriminating against talented students and scholars on the grounds of their race or sex. Harvard is by no means unique. Bloated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) bureaucracies have taken root at academic institutions around the country. The University of California at Berkeley biology department, for example, in 2019, disqualified 76 percent of the applicants for a faculty position based solely on their DEI statementsbefore examining their research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This behavior is seen in academia outside of universities as well. Prestigious scientific journals, such as Nature Human Behaviour, have indicated they will not publish scientific articles if they could cause offense or a sense of harm to certain groups. Physical Review, a major journal in my own field of physics, went so far as to publish a case study positing that the use of whiteboards in classrooms could be viewed as a remnant of white supremacy. The situation has set back scientific and scholarly progress, and has undermined the credibility of many academic disciplines among the public. At the same time, President Donald Trump has not only launched a frontal assault on Harvard but has also removed leading scientists from national advisory boards and federally supported research institutions, and declared war on universities and departments that don't bow to his political agenda. Perhaps most damaging of all, this administration is proposing to end support for most cutting-edge American research programs. This includes cutting the National Science Foundation budget by almost 60 percent, and killing major projectsfrom closing half of the Nobel Prize-winning Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory, to ending U.S. participation in the next generation space-based detector, to considering closing the NASA-Goddard space center, where most of the science at NASA originates. The administration's attempts to paint all university faculty as woke are misguided. Many leading scientists and scholars have continued to push the boundaries of knowledge while either ignoring ongoing culture wars or avoiding administrative activists on their campuses. Throwing the baby out with the bathwater is never a good idea, nor is schadenfreude worth risking the future of knowledge. The proper way to fight one form of intolerance is not to impose your own brand of intolerance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This external war on science may be, at least in the near term, more destructive than the ongoing internal culture wars within universities. The very best science programswhich are the best because they have largely avoided the current assault on scholarshipnow find themselves at risk. Decimating the scientific infrastructure of the nation by disenfranchising the best researchers and defunding their programs is not something that can be quickly repaired. Postdoctoral researchers lose their positions and leave academia, and departments stop supporting graduate students, who then depart for other opportunities. In this regard, we need to continue to recruit the best and brightest minds from around the world, both as students and researchers. But the Trump administration is also discouraging talented foreign students from studying and working in the U.S. Many of these students choose to stay in this country after their education is complete (as Elon Musk did) and create innovative technologies that sustain our economy. Attacking the scientific infrastructure of the nation ultimately undermines the economic and security interests of the nation. Reports have repeatedly shown that modest investment in basic research yields outsized economic returns for decades. Curiosity-driven research in areas from materials science and engineering to quantum physics and immunology is crucial to supporting the health, welfare, and security of the nation, and it must not be made subservient to political goals or ideologies. A great deal of damage has already been done. If the nation's best researchers or the next generation's emerging talent leave their fields or leave the country seeking greener pastures, U.S. competitiveness on a global scale will decline, and dominance will move elsewheremost likely to China. If that happens, science may not permanently suffer, but the nation will. The post America's Two-Front War on Science appeared first on Reason.com. (restores analysis tag) By Parisa Hafezi DUBAI (Reuters) -Weakened by war and diplomatic deadlock, Irans clerical elite stands at a crossroads: defy pressure to halt its nuclear activity and risk further Israeli and U.S. attack, or concede and risk a leadership fracture. For now, the Islamic Republic establishment is focusing on immediate survival over longer-term political strategy. A fragile ceasefire ended a 12-day war in June that began with Israeli air strikes, followed by U.S. strikes on three Iranian nuclear installations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both sides declared victory but the war exposed the military vulnerabilities and punctured the image of deterrence maintained by a major Middle East power and Israel's arch regional foe. Three Iranian insiders told Reuters the political establishment now views negotiations with the U.S. - aimed at resolving a decades-long dispute over its nuclear ambitions - as the only way to avoid further escalation and existential peril. The strikes on Iranian nuclear and military targets, which included killings of top Revolutionary Guard commanders and nuclear scientists, shocked Tehran, kicking off just a day before a planned sixth round of talks with Washington. While Tehran accused Washington of "betraying diplomacy", some hardline lawmakers and military commanders blamed officials who advocated diplomacy with Washington, arguing the dialogue proved a "strategic trap" that distracted the armed forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, one political insider, who like others requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the matter, said the leadership now leaned towards talks as "theyve seen the cost of military confrontation". President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Sunday that resuming talks with the United States "does not mean we intend to surrender", addressing hardliners opposing further nuclear diplomacy after the war. He added: "You dont want to talk? What do you want to do? ... Do you want to go (back) to war?" His remarks were criticised by hardliners including Revolutionary Guards commander Aziz Ghazanfari, who warned that foreign policy demands discretion and that careless statements could have serious consequences. Ultimately, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei holds the final say. Insiders said he and the clerical power structure had reached a consensus to resume nuclear negotiations, viewing them as vital to the Islamic Republics survival. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iran's Foreign Ministry said no decision has been made on the resumption of nuclear talks. DYNAMICS AND EXTERNAL PRESSURE U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have warned they will not hesitate to hit Iran again if it resumes enrichment of uranium, a possible pathway to developing nuclear weapons. Last week, Trump warned that if Iran restarted enrichment despite the June strikes on its key production plants, "well be back. Tehran responded with a vow of forceful retaliation. Still, Tehran fears future strikes could cripple political and military coordination, and so has formed a defence council to ensure command continuity even if the 86-year-old Khamenei must relocate to a remote hideaway to avoid assassination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alex Vatanka, director of the Iran Program at the Middle East Institute in Washington D.C., said that if Iran seeks to rapidly rebuild its nuclear capacity without securing diplomatic or security guarantees, "a U.S.Israeli strike won't just be possible - it will be all but inevitable". "Re-entering talks could buy Tehran valuable breathing room and economic relief, but without swift U.S. reciprocity it risks a hardline backlash, deepening elite divisions, and fresh accusations of surrender," Vatanka said. Tehran insists on its right to uranium enrichment as part of what it maintains is a peaceful nuclear energy programme, while the Trump administration demands a total halt - a core sticking point in the diplomatic standoff. Renewed United Nations sanctions under the so-called "snapback" mechanism, pushed by three European powers, loom as a further threat if Tehran refuses to return to negotiations or if no verifiable deal to curb its nuclear activity results. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tehran has threatened to quit the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. But insiders say this is a pressure tactic, not a realistic plan - as exiting the NPT would telegraph an Iranian race for nuclear bombs and invite U.S. and Israeli intervention. A senior Western diplomat said Irans rulers were vulnerable as never before, and any defiance was a gamble liable to backfire at a time of rising domestic unrest, impaired deterrence power and Israel's disabling of Iran's militia proxies in wars around the Middle East since 2023. MOUNTING ANXIETY Among ordinary Iranians, weariness over war and international isolation runs deep, compounded by a growing sense of failed governance. The oil-based economy, already hobbled by sanctions and state mismanagement, is under worsening strain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daily blackouts afflict cities around the country of 87 million people, forcing many businesses to cut back. Reservoirs have receded to record lows, prompting warnings from the government of a looming national water emergency. Many Iranians - even those opposed to the Shi'ite theocracy - rallied behind the country during the June war, but now face lost incomes and intensified repression. Alireza, 43, a furniture merchant in Tehran, said he is considering downsizing his business and relocating his family outside the capital amid fears of further air attack. "This is the result of 40 years of failed policies," he said, alluding to Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution that toppled the Western-backed monarchy. "We are a resource-rich country and yet people don't have water and electricity. My customers have no money. My business is collapsing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 20 people across Iran interviewed by phone echoed Alireza's sentiment - that while most Iranians do not want another war, they are also losing faith in the establishment's capacity to govern wisely. Despite broad discontent, large-scale protests have not broken out. Instead, authorities have tightened security, ramped up pressure on pro-democracy activists, accelerated executions and cracked down on alleged Israeli-linked spy networks - fuelling fears of widening surveillance and repression. However, sidelined moderates have resurfaced in state media after years of exclusion. Some analysts see this as a move to ally public anxiety and signal the possibility of reform from within - without "regime change" that would shift core policies. (Writing by Parisa Hafezi; editing by Mark Heinrich) (Corrects spelling of analyst's first name in paragraph 20 to Nicholas and adds word in paragraph 19 to make clear Trump imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on India) By Steve Holland WASHINGTON (Reuters) -When U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Helsinki in 2018, the pair alarmed allies with a friendly encounter where Trump sided with the Russian leader over his own intelligence agencies on election interference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump flies to a meeting in Alaska with Putin on Friday in a different public mood - impatient with the Russian's unwillingness to negotiate an end to his war in Ukraine and angry over missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. The world is waiting to see if it will be this tougher version of Trump who shows up in Anchorage or if it will be the former real estate tycoon who has sought to ingratiate himself with the wily former KGB agent in the past. The answer could have deep implications for European leaders concerned that Russia, if allowed to absorb parts of Ukraine, will be more aggressive toward NATO allies near Russia like Poland, Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia. It matters even more for Ukraine, which has been losing ground to Russian forces after three-and-a-half years of grinding combat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite his harsher tone toward Putin over the past months, Trump has a more extensive history of trying to placate the Russian leader. When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Trump declined to directly criticize Putin. The Russian president, shunned by multiple presidents, praised Trump for working to improve Russian-U.S. relations. Kremlin watchers are looking to see whether Trump will be enchanted by Putin again and swayed by his argument that Russia has a right to dominate Ukraine. "It's a reasonable concern to think that Trump will be bamboozled by Putin and cut a terrible deal at Ukraines expense," said Dan Fried, a diplomat for several U.S. presidents who is now at the Atlantic Council. But a different outcome is also possible, added Fried. "Theres a reasonable prospect that the administration will wake up to the fact that Putin is still playing them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has sought to temper expectations, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt telling reporters on Tuesday the meeting would be a "listening exercise." Trump told reporters on Wednesday that he might broker a second meeting that includes both Putin and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy if the Alaska session goes well. Russia has given no indication it is prepared to make concessions amid Ukrainian worries that Trump might make a deal without their input. Zelenskiy says he would like to see a ceasefire first followed by security guarantees. SWEETENERS AND COMPLAINTS Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Trump assumed office again in January, the Republican president tried to revive the warmth between the two leaders from his first term, expressing sympathy for Putin's isolated position in the world and vowing to end the war in Ukraine in 24 hours. As the administration eased pressure on Russia, some Trump aides parroted Russian talking points to the dismay of Ukraine's backers. In March, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff implied in a podcast interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson that Russia had a right to capture four mainland regions of Ukraine Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson - because "they're Russian speaking." And in a dramatic White House meeting in February, Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskiy for his handling of the war, to the delight of hardliners in Russia. Despite all the sweeteners, the Russian leader has refused to play along with Trump's efforts to steer the two sides into a peace deal. Putin has talked to Trump regularly but has kept up deadly bombing raids against Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ongoing bloodshed prompted Trump to shift to a tougher stance in July and complain that Putin was stalling him. Trump has agreed to send new weapons to Ukraine - that Europe will pay for - and has threatened new financial penalties for Moscow. Trump last week imposed an additional 25% tariff on India for buying Russian oil - indirect pressure on Moscow - but has held back from following through on his threats to impose stiffer sanctions. On Wednesday, he threatened "severe consequences" if Russia will not make a deal. "While the tone coming out of the White House has shifted, it has not yet been followed up with an expansion of U.S. sanctions Trump's deadlines for additional sanctions keep getting pushed back or new financial commitments from Washington to strengthen Ukrainian security," said Nicholas Fenton, of the Europe, Russia, and Eurasia Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. On Monday, Trump said he should know within two minutes whether Putin is willing to make concessions. "I may say, lots of luck. Keep fighting. Or I may say, we can make a deal," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement THE LURE OF THE DEAL For Trump, who is drawn to the spectacle of a high-profile summit with the world watching, the lure of making a deal is strong. He has engaged in an open campaign for a Nobel Peace Prize this year, pointing to what he has claimed as his diplomatic victories, and has unnerved U.S. allies with his eagerness for a Ukraine peace deal that they fret could embolden Putin. In recent days, Ukrainian and European leaders have protested Trump's assertion that Russia and Ukraine will have to engage in land swaps in order to reach a peace deal. While Russia occupies Crimea and large swaths of eastern Ukraine, the Ukrainians no longer hold any Russian territory, raising the question of what, exactly, could be exchanged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump insists that, given his personal relationship with Putin, he is the only one who can bring the war to an end. John Bolton, who was one of Trump's national security advisers in his first term and is now a sharp critic, said he was concerned that Putin was "beginning to work his magic" on Trump. "Personal relations obviously have a place in foreign affairs, just like they do in everything else. But when you're one of the world's hard men like Vladimir Putin, this is not a matter of emotion, this is a matter of cold calculation. Trump doesn't get that point," Bolton said. In a social media post on Wednesday, Trump complained that "very unfair media is at work on my meeting with Putin," citing the use of quotes from "fired losers" like Bolton. (Reporting by Steve Holland. Additional reporting by David Brunnstrom; Ashraf Fahim and Jonathan Landay; Editing by Don Durfee and Deepa Babington) Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison speaks to States Newsroom leaders and reporters Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at the Royal Sonesta in downtown Minneapolis. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer) The last Republican to serve as a Minnesota attorney general was Douglas M. Head, whose single term began before Americans stepped on the moon. This is a huge GOP fail, for a number of reasons. The Office of Attorney General can be immensely influential, as evidenced by the tenure of Keith Ellison. The Minnesota Constitution is mostly silent on the role of the attorney general, but statute gives the AG broad authority to investigate violations of the law of this state respecting unfair, discriminatory, and other unlawful practices in business, commerce, or trade. In other words, a broad remit that allows for high-profile investigation, civil litigation and even prosecution. Consider Ellisons climate fraud lawsuit against Exxon, Koch and the American Petroleum Institute. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ellison has also prosecuted former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin for murdering George Floyd and represented the states interests against the Trump administration in about 30 lawsuits so far. The office can be a springboard for a candidacy for governor or U.S. Senate, with almost limitless potential for media coverage AG sues car dealer for selling lemons, news at 11! as well as fundraising. Although Minnesota attorneys general have all failed in their attempts for higher office in recent decades from Lori Swanson and Mike Hatch all the way back to Head its such a common occurrence in other states that the joke is that AG stands for aspiring governor. So, which Republicans are in for 2026? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres some names being discussed in GOP circles: Joseph Thompson, the acting U.S. Attorney for Minnesota, whos won significant acclaim and media coverage for his prosecution of widespread fraud in Minnesotas public programs. Ron Schutz of Robins Kaplan, former chair and current board member of the Center of the American Experiment and chair of Tim Pawlentys presidential campaign. Ryan Wilson, the losing 2022 candidate for state auditor. Tad Jude, the former legislator, judge and Hennepin County Board member who lost to U.S. Rep. Kelly Morrison in 2024. (Jude trivia: He was 20 years old when elected to the state House in 1972.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Harry Niska, who ran briefly for the 2018 AG contest. Niska didnt vote for Donald Trump in 2016 and got in the 2018 race in April of 2017. I have been working to help other House candidates and have had a number of discussions about the AG race, but havent made any final 2026 decision yet, Niska said this week. The most intriguing candidate would be Thompson, whose story would be easy to tell: He prosecuted the fraudsters that Ellison let get away. (Obviously Ellison, whos racked up his own Medicaid fraud prosecutions, would rebut.) First Ive heard of it, Thompson said about AG speculation. When asked if hed be interested in running, he didnt reply. Thompsons party identity isnt even known at this point. While heading up the Feeding Our Future cases, he worked closely with then-U.S. Attorney Andy Luger the Obama and Biden appointee and the two had a close working relationship. Any bid for the Republican nomination would draw questions about whether he supported President Donald Trumps three candidacies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the Democratic-Farmer-Labor side, Attorney General Keith Ellison has not announced any reelection plans, according to a spokesman. Hes ruled out a run for Hennepin County attorney. Ellison would seem to be awaiting a decision from Gov. Tim Walz about whether the DFL governor will seek a third term. This is the second in a two-day series about Brady letters documents filed by prosecutors offices when law enforcement officers actions have met a standard that could cause their testimony in court to be challenged by defense attorneys. JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) First District Attorney General Steve Finneys policy for keeping files on law enforcement officers with potential credibility problems known as Brady letters appears to be a reasonable approach to an important Constitutional issue, according to two analysts. News Channel 11 spoke to David Gratz and Eric Stanton to get their take on a policy that one head law enforcement officer in Finneys district Washington County Sheriff Keith Sexton has criticized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the policy does what it intends to do and I think its a good thing to have its not picking on officers, its just complying with the law, said Gratz, a defense attorney who has also worked as a prosecutor and a served in law enforcement with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). That gives him experience in all three sides of the triangle that the 1963 Brady v Maryland case and the related Giglio v United States form the basis for. SEE ALSO: DA, sheriff at odds over court-related files on deputies in Washington Co. In Brady, the Supreme Court ruled that prosecutors must provide all material information to the defense in a criminal case. That includes both exculpatory evidence that could help the defense case, and impeachment evidence concerning prosecution witnesses. Giglio went further on the credibility of witnesses, including law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If theres a lack of credibility, stuff like the Brady letter has to be provided to the defense in order for the defense to be able to best defend their client, said Stanton, a former law enforcement officer who now teaches criminal justice. A defendant has a constitutional right to know whether an officer has lied in the past, and there are some cases that rely solely upon testimony of an officer, Gratz added. When you have those cases, when theres been a finding of dishonesty in the past, it is very important for that defendant to be made aware of those issues. Brady files only exist when lead prosecutors, such as Finney, set up systems to have them generated, and when law enforcement agencies cooperate by sending internal investigation files of potential Brady problems to those prosecutors. The First District had no Brady files when Finney took office in September 2022, but he quickly developed a manual that went out to the agencies. It lists multiple scenarios and whether they should warrant the agency sending information to the DA or not and it warns that failing to disclose Brady issues to defense attorneys can result in a litany of complications that can and should be avoided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is a system of checks and balances, and theres a lot of trust that is placed into the district attorney general to make the right decision, Gratz said. I think it would be hard to accidentally run afoul of Brady While a Brady letter in an officers file can be career-damaging, Gratz said the root issue is pretty straightforward. Its the overall principle of just doing the right thing, Gratz said. I think it would be hard to accidentally run afoul of Brady. I think that Brady is accounting for some serious misconduct, being dishonest, whether out in your official duties or being dishonest in an internal investigation. Some other situations could result in a Brady letter an assault conviction, for instance that would create a narrower trial issue than that would be narrower than dishonesty or tampering with evidence. When a case could put an officer with a Brady issue on the stand, Gratz said, most of those cases do not make it to the prosecutorial phase where Brady would have to be turned over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district attorney usually just issues whats called a nolle prosequi where they just say, we dont think we can prove this, or we think the damage would be so bad to our case that its not worth moving forward on. The reporting from law enforcement agencies remains voluntary, but Stanton said heads of those agencies ought to comply. At the end of the day, its not the agency heads decision on who gets the Brady letter, who doesnt, he said. Their job, a very important job, obviously, is to report these issues or possible issues and let the district attorney make that determination on whether this person needs a Brady letter or not. If the leader of the agency is not reporting these things, then he or she could find themselves in the same situation that they are not disclosing the full 100% honest credibility of their officers, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, Gratz said, district attorneys and other top prosecutors bear the responsibility of complying with Brady. Even if they arent informed of a potential Brady issue, if an officer whos a witness is later found to have one, its the prosecutors who are on the hook. The courts are going to do whats called impute knowledge to the district attorney general, Gratz said. Theyre going to say, you either knew about this or Im going to impute that knowledge to you because youre the chief law enforcement officer and agencies under you knew about it.' That makes a clear line of communication between a DA and law enforcement officials extremely important, including when it comes to Brady issues. Those issues are rare, with just eight Brady letters in Finneys file after nearly three years of the policy being in place. Sexton successfully requested that Rep. Rebecca Alexander (R-7th) step in and sponsor a bill to give due process to officers who are being considered for a Brady letter. That bill is currently on hold, and Gratz said he wonders whether state-mandated interference in how DAs operate their Brady process would pass constitutional muster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he thinks the issues could and should be resolved without outside involvement. From the outside looking in, I would like to see everybody work together and move forward to serve the citizens that they were elected to serve. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. SEABROOK, S.C. (WSAV) Authorities rescued several dogs and charged a Beaufort County man with animal fighting and cruelty on Monday. It was a multi-agency effort, and authorities say those dogs are now in safe hands. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) called on the Humane World of Animals Organization to help seize the animals and get them to safety. WSAV talked with the national animal group, who gave insight into how dog-fighting operations work, and how they often get uncovered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Typically speaking, when there is a dog fighting case, law enforcement will reach out, whether its to help with evidence gathering, whether its to help with identifying paraphernalia or in this case, its both, Janette Reever, a spokesperson with the Humane World of Animals Organization said. Reever said that in this specific case, they helped with the removal of the animals, collected evidence, gave the animals veterinary exams and will now house the animals until court. South Carolina leads nation in economic growth, says new study The property where the dogs were seized is off Trask Parkway in Seabrook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighbors and surrounding businesses pointed WSAV to where they said, is the exact location they saw police cars pull into on Monday. They witnessed authorities pull onto Claudie Lane, all the way to the private property that becomes out of sight from the road. Many of those neighbors said they had no idea of the cruel acts going on behind the tree line. Dogfighting basically operates the same as, its very underground. They operate the same as you would with organized crime, said Reever. Ten dogs in total were rescued by the animal organization. Nine of those dogs reportedly showed scarring that was consistent with being fought. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dogfighters will oftentimes say, I love my dogs. Theyre doing what they love to do. Well, they do it for that person, because these dogs are the ones that will give anything for their person, said Reever. The organization couldnt provide much information with the investigation ongoing, but they did provide a little insight into the animals current conditions. There has been some extensive medical done, said Reever, But, you know, just like with most cases of dog fighting, you have animals that have open wounds, broken bones. So oftentimes almost every case we do, you have to treat. Reever said that dogs apart of fighting rings are not be looked at as the aggressor, but instead the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant train a dog to fight. You can only condition them and kind of hone in on their traits that theyve been bred into them, said Reever. Clear the Shelters: Humane Society for Greater Savannah Reever said that the dogs are usually chained down with something like a car axel, and are left out in the elements. They also said the dogs likely never leave the property due to someone becoming suspicious of injuries. Many are treated on the dog fight site with the dog owners version of medical care. A lot of times when we do these cases, youll see that its almost like they have their own veterinary area set up. Suture material stuff that if these were show dogs or companions, you wouldnt have this, said Reever. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why they said woodsy or deep-set areas can be a prime spot for dog fighters to hide their suspicious activities. But they said they have seen other instances in urban areas. The organization also said that dog fighting isnt just tied to one type of group or community. A lot of people think that dogfighting is only done in rural and rural communities or in gang affiliations, when in all actuality, theres been judges, convicted teachers, attorneys, said Reever. The organization said that in many cases, people may not notice the actual dog fighting or barking from the dogs. Instead, they start to notice or hear odd activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When you watch these undercover footages of dog fights, the dogs, in the beginning you may hear some barking, some excitement, some beeping, probably within the first three to four minutes, said Reever. They are just treated so barbaric, but the dogs are so quiet. What typically gives it away is people sharing or youve got a neighbor or a family member that recognizes and says, you know, every Saturday night theyll walk a dog in and theyll either carry a dog out, or theyll have a garbage bag and leave and theyll start to think, you know, somethings going on here. The organization emphasized that dogs removed from fighting rings can be domesticated into a pet. Marine Corps recruit shot in leg during training exercise on Parris Island When I started this, I was like I always was under the assumption these dogs are killing machines. There is no way they could live with other dogs. Not every time, of course, but the majority of the time, these dogs, once theyre spayed or neutered and put in the right home, can make incredible companions, said Reever. One of the things thats really just never ceases to amaze me is how forgiving these dogs are. Its the brutality they face, and yet theyll stand there with their tail wagging, and theyre like, okay, Im ready to go. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Humane World for Animals Organization said the dogs are continuing to be treated and will be housed with them until court. The organization offers up to a $5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest or conviction for dog fighting or cockfighting. They said that if you see something, to say something. Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Humane World for Animals assists the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division with the rescue of dogs from a suspected dogfighting operation, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Timmonsville. (Kevin Wolf/AP Content Services for Humane World for Animals) Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Humane World for Animals assists the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division with the rescue of dogs from a suspected dogfighting operation, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 in Timmonsville. (Kevin Wolf/AP Content Services for Humane World for Animals) Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Credit to the Humane World for Animals Organization Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. The algae bloom forming around Ross Island Lagoon in the Willamette River on Monday morning. (Photo courtesy of Eagle Eye Droneography) The thick, green layer of toxin-producing algae currently growing on the Willamette River south of downtown Portland is not just a public health issue but a reminder to Willie Levenson of a total bureaucratic failure. Thats for a couple of reasons. First, Levenson, founder of the Portland-based nonprofit Human Access Project, said he alerted the Oregon Health Authority of the bloom Friday, Aug. 8, but the agency didnt issue a public health advisory warning people and pets to stay away until Monday night. On Wednesday, the agency extended the advisory to cover roughly 15 miles of the Willamette downriver to Kelley Point Park, where it nearly meets the Columbia River. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They let the whole weekend go by with people in that water, Levenson said. Cyanobacteria produced by the algae can cause headaches, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and fever if inhaled or ingested. Erica Heartquist, a spokesperson for the Oregon Health Authority, said in an email that they cannot issue an advisory until staff at the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality or a water body manager with water quality expertise provides a visual assessment and supporting documentation of a harmful algae bloom. The other reason Levenson called it a bureaucratic failure: He has tried for several years to get state and local agencies, and the governors office, to help him address the now-annual algae blooms that grow from the hot and stagnant waters of the Ross Island Lagoon and spread down the main stem of the Willamette River. The lagoon, created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1920s and made deeper by the Ross Island Sand and Gravel company mining gravel from the river, has created a 140-acre pond inside a river, according to Levenson. The solution that he and Oregon State University scientists identified after six years of study is to design and dig a channel through the lagoons embankment and let the water move freely again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon lawmakers had the chance to support the design of the project with a $1 million investment from the states general fund during the latest legislative session that wrapped in June. And at first, they did. House Bill 3314 passed unanimously from the House Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources and Water Committee in March. It was a 9-0 vote with a kiss and a hug, Levenson said. But the bill died unceremoniously in the Joint Ways and Means Committee without a vote. Without the funding, Levenson is stuck finding private money to design the channel and eventually build it while the toxic algae blooms continue year-after-year unabated. He already spent two years fundraising $500,000 through grants from nonprofits and local and tribal governments to cover the first 30% of the planning process. The rest of the plan hinged on getting money from the legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Mark Gamba, D-Milwaukie, who sponsored the bill, said it died like many others in the Ways and Means committee: Because there was no money. We were $500 million short from a normal operating budget, he said. A lot of bills like this that werent a lot of money, that were going to solve real problems, didnt get the money they needed. Gamba said its likely hell try again to get funding for the project in 2027. Until then, Levenson will be left to find private money to fund the work. Levenson is in disbelief that Gov. Tina Kotek and state agencies wont own the problem on the arterial waterway of Oregons largest city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why is a one-and-a-half person nonprofit put in a role to drive a solution to this problem? Everythings been a bake sale and weve had no help from the state, he said. Its not an option not to solve this. Levenson said hes been discussing these issues with Koteks Regional Solutions Office for the last two years to little avail. The office is meant to bring state agencies and the private sector together to tackle specific issues across 11 regions of the state. Theyve been giving me placated answers. Ive lost faith in the Regional Solutions process, he said. Anca Matica, a Kotek spokesperson, said the Regional Solutions Office and the Governors Office have met with and continue to meet with various stakeholders, including the Oregon Health Authority, Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Agriculture, and the Department of State Lands to coordinate on public health advisories around the algae blooms. A hole in the river Matica said paying to fix the algae bloom problem also lies with the Ross Island Sand and Gravel company, which has created the deep, warm water lagoon where the algae blooms originate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ross Island used to be one of a complex of four islands. In the 1920s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers moved the earth on two of the islands around to create an embankment connecting them to divert water and make a deeper shipping channel in the river, as well as to make it more accessible to industry. The two islands combined created the U-shaped Ross Island, but the new embankment stopped the natural flow of the river between the islands and the lagoon became a stagnant pond in the river. In 1926, the Ross Island Sand and Gravel Co. established itself on the island and started excavating millions of tons of gravel from the river to make cement, creating a large hole in the river until 2001. The combination of the gravel excavation, the man-made lagoon around it, hot summers and pollution from nearby cities has led to the perfect conditions for cyanobacteria and algal blooms to grow in the area. The Ross Island Sand and Gravel Co. though no longer operational, is under orders from the Department of State Lands to undertake reclamation work to refill the hole the company left in the river from decades of excavation. As part of that, its possible the company could offer to pay for some of the channeling work. The company is currently facing a $2.9 million fine from the Oregon Department of State Lands for failing to comply with the terms of its agreement to refill the Ross Island lagoon. They could choose to direct 80% of the fine to a Supplemental Environmental Project such as the lagoon channeling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under a 2024 settlement with the Northwest Environmental Defense Center, which sued the company over perpetuating the toxic blooms, Ross Island Sand and Gravel is required to block the lagoon so algae cant spread after the state has issued an advisory, something Levenson said is also a bureaucratic failure because the algae has typically spread well beyond the lagoon by the time the state issues an advisory. Officials in charge of the billion-dollar Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund, made up of revenue from a 1% tax on large retail businesses in the city, declined to fund project planning and implementation because it was not reducing carbon dioxide emissions, according to Levenson. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Afternoon light shines on the sign for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service Processing Center in El Centro, Calif., on May 27, 2022. (Stock photo by Matt Gush/Getty Images) The American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio is suing a second county, accusing it of violating the states open-records law. The records are contracts and memoranda between the Seneca County Sheriffs Office and federal agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Marshals Service and the Department of Homeland Security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As with some other counties in Ohio, Seneca has contracted with the federal government to detain those swept up in the Trump administrations mass deportations. The ACLU filed a similar suit against Geauga County in May. Seneca County is claiming that its not allowed to release the records because they are federal records subject to the Federal Records Act (FRA) and thus not subject to disclosure under state law, according to the lawsuit filed by the ACLU. However, open-records laws are intended to combat corruption and other secret dealing by giving the public access to the inner workings of government. As a general matter, government documents can usually only be withheld or redacted if they contain sensitive personal information, business secrets, would compromise a law enforcement investigation or if their disclosure would endanger public safety or national security. The Seneca County Sheriffs Office has a clear legal duty to provide the requested information, Freda Levenson, legal director of the ACLU of Ohio, said in a written statement. The sheriffs office has never denied that they possess such records, and there is no provision in Ohio public records law that exempts them from the obligation to produce these records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Levenson also said the federal statutes cited by the sheriffs office dont exempt the information from disclosure. The public has a right to this information, the statement continued. Local law enforcement must be accountable; it cannot shroud itself in secrecy. The sheriffs office didnt respond to a message sent Tuesday afternoon. Advocates for immigrants have argued that jails are not appropriate places to hold people detained by ICE. For one thing, many those not accused of illegal entry are not criminal suspects. For another, there were lawsuits and other problems at Ohio jails under the arrangements during the first Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynn Tramonte, founder of the Ohio Immigrant Alliance, in April listed the harms done to those held in county jails on immigration matters. Such detentions mean taking them away from their families, jobs, and communities, making them rot in jail, while their immigration cases are pending. Making it harder for them to work with lawyers and win their cases. In the United States, you can be eligible for deportation and legal status at the same time. The ACLU of Ohio is asking the state Supreme Court to issue an order mandating that the records it asked for be released. Jocelyn Rosnick, its chief policy and advocacy officer, said sheriffs have to be accountable under state law. The ACLU of Ohio is deeply committed to protecting immigrants rights and our organization serves as a watchdog for government transparency and accountability, she said. Ohio counties like Seneca and Geauga cannot hide behind federal immigration officials to avoid obligations under Ohio law. Our lawful demands for timely and accurate information must not be ignored. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE As the Trump administration aims to bolster fossil fuels at the expense of clean energy expansion, new research shows the oil and gas sector has so far failed to become a major jobs creator for heavily fracked areas of northern Appalachia. To the degree that we allocate resources to help develop that industry, were diverting those resources from other industries that actually could deliver more jobs and higher per-capita incomes, said Sean OLeary, author of the recent report from the Ohio River Valley Institute. The report uses the term Frackalachia to describe 30 top oil- and gas-producing counties in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. As a group, the counties have smaller populations and a net loss in the number of jobs compared to 2008, just before Appalachias shale-gas boom began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The counties growth in per-capita income also has lagged behind the national average, even as their nominal gross domestic product nearly doubled, increasing their share of the countrys GDP by 6%. Basically, comparatively high economic output from the counties did not produce higher-than-average incomes for their residents. Despite immense economic growth as measured by GDP, Frackalachia is in a position of actually having lost jobs since the beginning of the natural-gas boom, OLeary said. In his view, the numbers contradict pro-industry pitches for more oil and gas development. Whatever else it is, the natural-gas boom is not an engine for economic prosperity, OLeary said. He thinks the gas industry is structurally incapable of delivering lasting growth in jobs and income for the people living in heavily fracked areas. The Frackalachia counties have also seen relatively few jobs from downstream industries, such as the production of plastics, he added. Oil and gas development is highly capital-intensive, but not very labor-intensive, OLeary explained. Most earnings go to shareholders, investors, and suppliers based far from where fossil fuels are extracted, so only a small share of project income stays in the community to stimulate more economic activity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Completed wells dont need many permanent employees, OLeary said. And many people who work in drilling and fracking come from outside the local area. Canary Medias review of data from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services is consistent with that observation. From 2012 through 2022, the agency issued annual reports about the economic impact of the states oil and gas industry, including data for both core jobs and ancillary industries, which support oil and gas development. More than half of the new hires for the core industry jobs in 2021 came from outside Ohio, according to the state data. Even in ancillary industries, nearly four-tenths of new hires were from other states. Meanwhile, the state holds clean energy companies to higher standards when it comes to sourcing local labor. Solar developers who want to qualify for certain property tax relief must provide at least 70% of a projects jobs to Ohio residents. Not so great expectations? Canary Media drilled further into the figures from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to see how employment numbers compare to those touted by fossil-fuel industry organizations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of 2024, the core shale-industry sectors employed almost 9,100 people. The net gain compared to 2012 was about 860 jobs. Employment in those sectors peaked in 2017 at about 16,400. Roughly 199,000 people worked in the industrys ancillary sectors in 2024, for a net gain of about 30,000 jobs compared to 2012. However, the Department of Job and Family Services reports note that those ancillary sectors support other industries as well, such as engineering services, iron and steel mills, and construction of highways, streets, and bridges. The Ohio agency numbers fall short of the 204,000 new jobs that an industry-funded report forecast oil and gas businesses might create or support. That analysis was published in 2011, in the lead-up to the 2012 law that set up the states current regulatory scheme for drilling and fracking of horizontal wells. The agency numbers are also far lower than the 79,000 direct and 375,000 total jobs the American Petroleum Institute cited in a 2021 report based on data from 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A communications representative for the American Petroleum Institute declined to answer Canary Medias questions about that report or the new research from the Ohio River Valley Institute. A spokesperson for the Ohio Oil and Gas Association did not respond to a phone call and emails seeking comment for this story. The cyclical boom-and-bust dynamics that often characterize oil and gas development also impact jobs, said Gilbert Michaud, an assistant professor of environmental policy at Loyola University Chicago. In contrast, utility-scale solar could be built out over time, to offer opportunities for a more stable and consistent workforce, he said. An analysis prepared by Michaud and others in 2020 estimated that utility-scale solar development could provide tens of thousands of jobs over the course of a few decades if the state encouraged it. That study came out before Ohio lawmakers added extra hurdles for most utility-scale solar and wind projects in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now federal policy has also shifted away from renewables and in favor of fossil fuels. While this might spur some jobs in oil and gas, it will also take jobs away from renewables, which can be built nearly anywhere, not just in places like eastern Ohio that have shale resources, Michaud said. It will threaten a big renewable energy pipeline that has developed over the past decade or two. A U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals courtroom at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo from the Library of Congress) A federal appeals court affirmed a lower courts preliminary injunction Wednesday, allowing two Hoosier mothers to continue providing state-reimbursed caregiving services to their medically fragile children. Plaintiffs, represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana and Indiana Disability Rights, argued that the childrens care was too intensive to transition from attendant care to another state program last August. With a statewide shortage of nurses, mothers also said they couldnt use state services to hire an outside caretaker and had to take on the 24/7 responsibilities themselves. We are grateful that the courts have once again recognized that these children deserve to live at home with their families, not be forced into institutions, said Gavin Rose, the ACLUs deputy legal director. Our clients have dedicated themselves to becoming specially trained in the needs of their children, and no one is better qualified to provide the round-the-clock care they require. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Responding to a nearly $1 billion projected Medicaid shortfall, state leaders with the Family and Social Services Administration made several changes in 2024 and halted a program that paid parents to be caregivers to their children with medically complex conditions. The attendant care program for Legally Responsible Individuals paid parents an hourly, livable wage but roughly 1,600 families were transitioned to another service that paid a per diem stipend at a far lower rate. Two mothers sued and were eventually granted a preliminary injunction, which the U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed this week. Previously, a federal judge in Indianapolis ruled that FSSA must secure in-home skilled nursing services for both children on top of program offerings. The state documented dozens of calls to nursing agencies, nearly all of which couldnt do the work for one reason or another. In filings, attorneys argued that the only other viable option for the mothers would be institutionalization, which one mother had previously tried and dismissed. The state has two such facilities equipped to handle such care. The Courts decision recognizes the very real threat that these families faced following the changes to the Medicaid waiver in 2024, and the likelihood that these parents would have faced the unthinkable decision of having their children placed in an institution, said Sam Adams, a senior attorney with Indiana Disability Rights. This decision reinforces the understanding that children with complex medical needs are best served when they can remain at home with their families. The Court found that there are steps that FSSA can and must take to help ensure these children remain safely in their families homes. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Apple on Thursday rejected Elon Musk's claim that its digital App Store favors OpenAI's ChatGPT over his company's Grok and other rival AI assistants. Musk has accused Apple of giving unfair preference to ChatGPT on its App Store and threatened legal action, triggering a fiery exchange with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman this week. "The App Store is designed to be fair and free of bias," Apple said in reply to an AFP inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We feature thousands of apps through charts, algorithmic recommendations, and curated lists selected by experts using objective criteria." Apple added that its goal at the App Store is to offer "safe discovery" for users and opportunities for developers to get their creations noticed. But earlier this week, Musk said Apple was "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," without providing evidence to back his claim. "xAI will take immediate legal action," he said on his social media network X, referring to his own artificial intelligence company, which is responsible for Grok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Altman called Musk's accusation "remarkable" in a response on X, charging that Musk himself is said to "manipulate X to benefit himself and his own companies and harm his competitors and people he doesn't like." Musk called Altman a "liar" in the heated exchange. OpenAI and xAI recently released new versions of ChatGPT and Grok. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement App Store rankings listed ChatGPT as the top free app for iPhones on Thursday, with Grok in seventh place. Factors going into App Store rankings include user engagement, reviews and the number of downloads. Grok was temporarily suspended on Monday in the latest controversy surrounding the chatbot. No official explanation was provided for the suspension, which followed multiple accusations of misinformation including the bot's misidentification of war-related images -- such as a false claim that an AFP photo of a starving child in Gaza was taken in Yemen years earlier. Last month, Grok triggered an online storm after inserting antisemitic comments into answers without prompting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement on Grok's X account later that month, the company apologized "for the horrific behavior that many experienced." A US judge has cleared the way for a trial to consider OpenAI legal claims accusing Musk -- a co-founder of the company -- of waging a "relentless campaign" to damage the organization after it achieved success following his departure. The litigation is another round in a bitter feud between the generative AI start-up and the world's richest person. Musk founded xAI in 2023 to compete with OpenAI and the other major AI players. gc/sst A century ago, two Gravity Slope Colliery buildings at the end of Laurel Street in Archbald circulated fresh air into the depths below and provided a place for coal miners to change into and out of their blackened work clothes. Now, 70 years after the colliery shut down, Archbald and the nonprofit Valley in Motion want the community to decide the future of the Gravity Slope Collierys fan house and shifting shanty, located just off Laurel Street near the Lackawanna River Heritage Trails Laurel Street Trailhead. To solicit feedback, Valley in Motion will host an interactive community meeting from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday inside the council chambers of Archbalds Borough Building, 400 Church St. There is a great opportunity to repurpose these buildings to suit todays community, Valley in Motion said in a news release Tuesday. From business ideas that drive the local economy to gathering spaces that bring the community together, we want to hear from you! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project is a partnership involving the Archbald Borough Colliery Committee, the Archbald Neighborhood Association, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Valley in Motion. The shifting shanty and fan house are remnants of the coal era that have fallen into disrepair, according to the news release. Notably, the fan house still contains the huge fan once used to blow fresh air into the coal mines below. Built in 1913, the Gravity Slope Colliery operated until 1955 when the Delaware and Hudson Coal Co. closed it due to excessive mine flooding, according to an Archbald Borough Historical Society infographic. Three colliery buildings remain; in addition to the shifting shanty and fan house, work is already underway to fix up a former oil storage building known as the oil house, which is visible from the end of Laurel Street. To help spur imagination and collaboration among attendees Thursday, facilitators from Valley in Motion will lead individual and group model-building exercises to generate ideas for the best community uses for the buildings. The goal is to strengthen community connections while preserving the unique characteristics that make Archbald such a terrific place to live and visit, according to Valley in Motion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The borough plans to use grant funding for the project, with officials exploring both arts and culture grants as well as abandoned mine reclamation grants. The event is free, open to the public and will include light refreshments. For information, call 570-351-1086 or visit facebook.com/valleyinmotion. Protesters gather outside U.S. Rep. David Schweikert's Scottsdale office for a "silver sit-in" on the 90th anniversary of Social Security. Photo by Jerod MacDonald-Evoy | Arizona Mirror On the 90th anniversary of Social Security being enacted, seniors in Arizona held silver sit-ins at the offices of two GOP congressmen, asking them to ensure the program continues and advocate for policy changes to keep it fully funded. We want everybody to have the same type of benefits from Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security that weve had, Linda Somo, president of the Arizona Alliance for Retired Americans, told the Arizona Mirror as she and about 20 other seniors stood on the corner of the street outside of Republican U.S. Rep. David Schweikerts Scottsdale office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Approximately 69 million Americans receive Social Security benefits each month. Advocates have been alarmed by actions taken by President Donald Trumps administration, including allowing Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency to seek data from the program and baseless claims that millions of dead people are receiving benefits. While Trump and his allies have vowed to not cut the program, with the president announcing Thursday that he would protect and expand benefits for seniors even as the one big, beautiful bill he backed this year speeds up its insolvency others have pointed to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessents comments on his Trump account proposal as a backdoor to privatization for Social Security as evidence that the administration doesnt intend to save the program. Schweikert has suggested that Congress needs to make cuts to funding in both Social Security and Medicare and has also advocated for raising the retirement age from 67 to 69. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schweikert did not respond to a request for comment from the Mirror. Somo said her organization has tried for about a month to get a meeting with Schweikert to discuss their concerns about his policy proposals, adding that they have not heard back from anyone in his office. One idea theyd like him to consider is eliminating the Social Security tax cap, allowing for more money to be paid into the system. Eliminating that cap has been estimated to bring in an additional $3.2 trillion over 10 years. Currently, workers only pay the first $176,100 of their income into Social Security. Proponents of eliminating this cap argue that it makes the system less regressive by increasing the liability on those with higher incomes. However, opponents argue that it places an unfair burden on those earners and disincentivizes certain people from working. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 2033, Social Security and the Medicare Trust Funds could be depleted as more and more people enter the program and live longer lives. CJ Karamargin, Senior Advisor for Congressman Juan Ciscomani, R-Tucson, who was also the subject of a silver sit-in, said that Ciscomani is committed to ensuring that the program remains solvent for future generations and is open to hearing good ideas. Karamargin also said that they are open and willing to meet with groups like the one Arizona Alliance for Retired Arizonans to learn those ideas and confirmed that the office took information from the group on Thursday to give to Ciscomani. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Monitoring software used to track students' online activity has proliferated across schools nationwide, including in Arizona. The software scans students' school-issued devices. Privacy and technology experts say it looks for keywords. It also blocks access to certain websites, like those with obscene material, and uses artificial intelligence to assess risk. It triggers alerts to school administrators in potential instances of self harm or harm to others. Schools officials say they use AI surveillance to improve safety, prevent tragedy and comply with federal laws that require protection for kids against lewd or harmful internet content. Privacy and technology experts, however, say the programs invade students' privacy, can damage trust and interfere with education. All the while, there is little to no independent data to back up the programs' effectiveness, experts say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The software drew criticism in Arizona after a high school student in Marana was suspended for typing what his parents claimed was a "joke" about school violence on his Chromebook at home. The student deleted the words and never sent the message. The parents sued the district for violating their son's First Amendment free speech rights. The case is ongoing. Here's what to know about the software and how it could affect you or your child. Does my school district use AI surveillance? Acording to GovSpend, an agency that tracks government spending, 52 Arizona school agencies paid for software that can monitor students between 2020 and 2025. Most of the agencies are school districts, but some charter schools are included. Not every school in a district necessarily uses the software. Reach out to your specific school for more information. Here's GovSpend's list of school agencies: Academy of Math and Science Agua Fria Union High School District Alhambra Elementary School District Amphitheater Public Schools Balsz School District #31 Buckeye Elementary School District #33 Buckeye Union High School District Bullhead City Elementary School District #15 Casa Grande Elementary School District Clarkdale-Jerome School District Coolidge Unified School District #21 Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District No. 6 Desert Ridge Junior High School Desert View Academy Douglas Unified School District #27 Florence Unified School District No. 1 Fort Huachuca Accommodation Schools Fountain Hills Unified School District #98 Fowler Elementary School District No. 45 Gilbert Classical Academy Gilbert High School Gilbert Public Schools Greenfield Elementary School Greenfield Junior High School Highland Jr High School Higley Unified School District Higley Virtual Academy Kingman Unified School District 20 Marana Unified School District Maricopa Unified School District #20 Marion Donaldson Elementary School Mesquite Junior High School Mohave Valley Elementary School District 16 Nogales Unified School District #1 Northland Preparatory Academy Page Unified School District #8 Paradise Education Center Paradise Valley Unified School District Parker Unified School District Paulden Community School Pima Unified School District 6 Pine Forest Charter School Sanders Unified School District Santa Fe Elementary School Scottsdale Unified School District Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District #9 Sunnyside Unified School District #12 Towne Meadows Elementary School Tucson Unified School District Washington Elementary School District Window Rock Unified School District No. 8 Yuma Union High School District #70 How much are schools spending on monitoring software? The answer varies. Some school districts have paid tens of thousands, while others have paid hundreds of thousands. Gilbert Public Schools topped GovSpend's list, paying more than $400,000 in the past five years. Some districts have indicated they pay $5 per student, others closer to $9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you're interested in how much a certain district is spending, you can file a public records request at your school for any contracts with the software monitoring companies. What monitoring technology do Arizona schools use? The more common programs purchased by Arizona school districts included GoGuardian, Gaggle, Securly, Navigate360 and LightSpeed. Do schools monitor students' social media? Schools can monitor social media through programs like Navigate360, which a number of Arizona school districts have paid for in the past five years, according to GovSpend. Not all software, however, monitors social media. Navigate360 rejects framing the issue as "monitoring" or "surveillance" of students. The company says monitoring means looking at what's being said, whereas "scanning" includes analysis designed to detect threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company says it uses "language analysis technology" to first determine if something is said about a school district and then determine if the post contains threats. The technology is supposed to take into account sentence structure, present or past tense, and tone or sentiment. Navigate360 says it only scans public social media posts: "Authors must post publicly and must self-identify in a way that connects them to the school community, such as someone listing the schools name in their social media profile or following their official social media account." But institutions like the Brennan Center for Justice have warned there is little evidence such technologies actually make kids safer. Margarita Castillo (right) works with Madison Bramley (center) in the open computer lab in the Mesa Public Schools Student Services building on Aug. 1, 2018. Are students disciplined for what they say online? Students can and have faced discipline for online activity in Arizona. But the extent to which schools can regulate students' activity changes whether they are on campus versus off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal case filed in Arizona District Court stands to provide clarity on the subject. Attorneys at Arizona State University's First Amendment Clinic at that Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law are currently representing a Marana high school student who was suspended for typing, "GANG GANG GIMME A BETTER GRADE OR I SHOOT UP DA SKOOL HOMIE." The boy's parents claimed it was a joke. The attorneys say it's protected speech, and argue students' free speech rights are greater off campus than on. They 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. Can schools see what students do on the internet at home? If you are using a school-issued laptop with monitoring software, companies can collect data about what you do on that computer regardless of what time it is or where you're at. There also are software programs that monitor student Google accounts. That means schools that use specific technology can monitor students' activity conducted on a personal device, if that student is using their Google account. For example, sending an email on a school account from a personal cell phone could be monitored. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Individuals should ask their school districts what policies and agreements they have with the monitoring companies they contract with. Different schools and programs will have different policies and capabilities. What parents should know about online monitoring software Surveys from the Center for Democracy and Technology show parents have complicated feelings about schools surveilling students. They don't want it to impede on the educational experience or lead to more discipline, but they also have told surveyors the benefits generally outweigh the risks. Privacy and technology experts say parents should demand transparency from their schools, and get as much information as possible about what's collected and how it could be used. Elizabeth Laird is the director of equity in civil technology at the Center for Democracy and Technology. Jennifer Jones is a staff attorney at the First Amendment Institute at Columbia University. Here are some questions they recommend parents ask: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What are the specific risks the district is concerned about, and how is this software addressing it? What data backs up those claims? Is this software in operation all the time, or is it limited to school hours? What websites are blocked, and what keywords are screened for potential red flags? Who gets access to this data, and for how long? How do you handle different types of alerts, and will I be notified? Under what circumstances is law enforcement notified, and do they keep this information forever? 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: Marana High School incident spotlights AI surveillance of AZ students Marisol Garcia discusses the Educators Budget proposed by Arizonas largest teachers union, the Arizona Education Association on March 22, 2023. Garcia is the unions president. Photo by Gloria Rebecca Gomez | Arizona Mirror Arizona lawmakers and governors have unconstitutionally underfunded public schools and are repeating the same mistakes that led to a landmark ruling more than 30 years ago, a trial court judge ruled this week. At the core of Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Dewain Foxs ruling is that chronic underfunding for both school maintenance and short-term capital needs has created a two-tiered education system in Arizona. The result is that school districts in wealthier areas with higher property tax bases can supplement inadequate state funding with voter-approved bonds, while those in poor areas cannot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (This) ruling is an important step in our unions fight to get Arizona lawmakers to invest even the bare minimum in public schools, Marisol Garcia, a middle school social studies teacher in the Isaac Elementary School District and president of the Arizona Education Association, said in a written statement. We hope this ruling will be a wake-up call for lawmakers to do their jobs and fully fund the great public schools that Arizona deserves. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX After a 14-day trial in late June and early July examining over 3,200 pages of transcripts and nearly 2,000 exhibits, Fox concluded that the state shorted public schools at least $2.2 billion for maintenance and construction costs between 1998 and 2013 and likely billions more in the years since, after policymakers scrapped a formula for building repairs in favor of far less funding for competitive grants. In 1998, lawmakers introduced the Students FIRST program, which created a formula for new school construction and maintenance for existing schools. The program was a direct response to the Arizona Supreme Courts 1994 ruling in Roosevelt v. Bishop that found the states system for funding capital needs buildings, buses, technology, books and more violated the state constitutions requirement that there be a general and uniform school system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Students FIRST resolved the funding disparities between wealthy and poor districts on paper, the reality was that it never received the money it should have, and so schools continued to operate with unconstitutional underfunding, Fox wrote. One key component of Students FIRST was its building renewal formula, which was designed to ensure school districts had money to build new schools in growing communities and keep existing schools from falling into disrepair. But the GOP-controlled legislature never met its obligations to provide that money: Of the $2.8 billion that the formula called for, appropriations totaled just $647.5 million, or 23.5% of what was called for. And thats just through 2013, when Republican lawmakers and GOP Gov. Jan Brewer replaced the building renewal formula, which awarded money to schools as issues arose, with a competitive grant system in which school districts had to apply for a limited pool of money. The result was two-fold: not only was there less money available to schools, but there was no longer a clear benchmark for what adequate funding should be, limiting scrutiny of how much lawmakers were shortchanging schools. In the years since, funding for school maintenance grants ranged from just $2.7 million to $79 million. That high point came in 2020, but Fox noted that it represented just one-third of what the old formula would have required in that year with less than 1% of need funded in other years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fiscal year 2024, the state appropriated only $200 million for Building Renewal grants, while the School Facilities Division estimated needing over $587 million. As of June 2024, there were 435 building renewal projects totaling $227.3 million awaiting funding, more than the entire $200 million appropriation for the year. Foxs ruling spelled out how underfunding affects actual students and schools. Some particularly striking examples include: At Elfrida Elementary School in Cochise County, students must position trash cans to catch water from leaking roofs during class. The school lacks a gymnasium, has unreliable power that causes monthly outages and the water that comes out of classroom faucets is discolored and cloudy. In Bowie Unified School District, three schools need new roofs with a combined cost of $4.2 million. One building that was built in 1922 has 17 identified roof leaks causing extensive interior damage. Students attend classes where teachers place buckets to catch dripping water. Restrooms at Mohawk Valley Elementary School near Yuma are in such disrepair that one had black mold underneath and black mold along the walls with urinals and toilets covered in mold. The court described conditions as disgusting. Perhaps most damning, the court found that the state has failed even to inspect schools as required by law. For over a decade, Arizona conducted virtually no inspections of school facilities to ensure compliance with minimum adequacy guidelines. When inspections finally resumed in 2023, they revealed alarming conditions: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 30 of 32 inspected schools had classrooms with excessive CO2 levels 117 of 167 classrooms had noise levels above state standards Some CO2 levels were six times higher than guidelines allow Fox also noted that the chronic underfunding of Students FIRST was compounded by the Republican-led legislature reducing another school funding stream District Additional Assistance, or DAA, which covers shorter-term capital needs that dont involve major construction or renovation by at least $3 billion between 2009 and 2022. He wrote that, by systematically underfunding both DAA and building renewal, the state has created a cascade of problems that violates the constitutional adequacy requirement. If a district cant afford basic maintenance items through DAA say, changing air filters regularly or replacing worn flooring before it becomes a safety hazard those small problems grow into major projects that require building renewal funding. As one district official noted, they had to choose between curriculum and bathrooms and carpet and bussing. Foxs ruling isnt the final word on the matter: Senate President Warren Petersen and House Speaker Steve Montenegro, both Republicans, dont think the state should pay more for school maintenance and will appeal. Even though the case was filed in 2017, it likely wont be resolved for several more years. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. (KSNW) The Arkansas City school board has approved a resolution to place a bond election on the ballot. This November, Ark City voters will decide between two bond proposals to upgrade schools and improve safety. Option 1 would keep the districts mill levy rate at the average of the past decade while funding significant improvements at Arkansas City Middle School, including additions, renovations, and safety upgrades. It would also cover HVAC system replacements, roof repairs at multiple schools, technology updates, and the installation of controlled entryways at selected buildings. Wichita Public Schools start year with 70 teacher vacancies Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Option 2 would include all the projects in Option 1, plus the construction of a new nine-classroom Pre-K center to expand early learning and free up space in elementary schools. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking here. To watch our shows live on our website, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin gave an update Thursday on his offices ongoing efforts to fight human trafficking in the state. Griffin said Operation Obscured Vision was launched on Jan. 23 with coordinated raids on several illicit massage businesses in Harrison, Hot Springs, Jonesboro, Little Rock, Rogers and Russellville. This was followed by raids in Hot Springs on May 22 and again on May 28, he said. Department of Public Safety & Arkansas State Police launch statewide webpage to provide resources for human trafficking victims Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The operation has to date served search warrants on 13 illicit massage businesses, resulting in seven arrests. The attorney general said the raids have resulted in seven arrests, with two arrest warrants still outstanding. The two outstanding warrants are for 53-year-old Junfang Li, a Chinese national, and 53-year-old Yuanbo Xi, also a Chinese national. It is believed that both Li and Xi have fled the country, Griffin said, adding that six of the seven operation arrests were of Chinese nationals. Twenty-three trafficking victims have been identified, Griffin said, with 22 accepting services. All the victims have been Chinese nationals. More than $107,000 in cash has been seized in the raids, most of which is American dollars. Still, currency from China, Turkey, Thailand, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, and Serbia has also been seized, the attorney general said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six arrested, 38 victims found in Arkansas human trafficking recovery operation Griffin provided an update on Thursday on a July 28 raid of two massage parlors in Hot Springs that resulted in serving Arkansas warrants on a man in Oklahoma. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Aug. 14 (UPI) -- The man charged with fatally stabbing a couple with their kids at Devil's Den State Park in Arkansas pleaded not guilty Thursday to two counts of capital murder. Andrew James McGann, a former teacher, has been alleged to have randomly attacked and killed Clinton and Cristen Brink in July as they were hiking the park with their daughters, aged 7 and 9. The girls were not physically injured and are with family members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGann was arrested by special agents with the Arkansas State Police after a five-day manhunt resulting in his being taken into custody while receiving a haircut in Springdale, Ark., around 30 miles north of Devil's Den State Park. McGann, currently represented by a public defender, is being held in custody without bond. The prosecution will seek the death penalty if McGann is convicted. The 2,500-acre park where the murders took place is in a remote and rural area that has rugged terrain with thick vegetation and no cellphone service. Published reports quoted officials as saying that McGann recently had moved to the area from Oklahoma and was employed at a bank. The leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan brushed off any threat of backlash from neighboring powers Iran and Russia following a U.S.-brokered peace accord an agreement hailed as the start of a new era, ending more than three decades of war and hostility in the South Caucasus. In exclusive Fox News Digital interviews, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev both praised President Donald Trump and his envoy for their role in brokering the framework agreement. They emphasized that the deal, which promised increased regional economic integration and political cooperation, is not directed at any third party and may actually provide strategic advantages to Moscow and Tehran. "This is not a zero-sum game," Pashinyan said. The agreement "contains quite tangible benefits for Iran and for Russia as well." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Iran would have access through railway from the Persian Gulf to the Black Sea and Russia and Iran will have opportunity to have a railway connection between the two countries." Trump To Host Armenia, Azerbaijan Leaders Ahead Of Peace Pledge As White House Eyes Nobel Peace Prize Russia a long-standing ally of Armenia and a presence in the region through its border guards welcomed peace but sent a warning about U.S. involvement. Its foreign ministry described the accord as "positive," expressing hope for stability in the Caucasus, but warned that foreign involvement should complement, not complicate, the peace process. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ministry emphasized that regional solutions should include neighbors like Russia, Iran and Turkey, and cautioned against repeating the pitfalls of Western-led interventions in the Middle East. Aliyev echoed Pashinyans remarks and declined to see U.S. diplomatic involvement as a provocation toward Moscow. "It will be very difficult for any country whether far away or in our region to say something bad about todays agreement," he told Fox News Digital. "Weve taken the final step toward peace." He added: "Its not against anyone. Its a connectivity project which will be one of the most important parts of international transportation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the heart of the pact is the planned Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) a roughly 27-mile transit route linking mainland Azerbaijan with its Nakhchivan exclave, passing through Armenian territory. Armenia has granted the U.S. exclusive development rights via a 99year lease, allowing for infrastructure projects such as roads, rail lines, pipelines, fiber optics and possibly power transmission, aimed at opening new trade and transit paths in the region. This bold move shifts regional dynamics, offering Washington a powerful strategic foothold while bypassing traditional Russian and Iranian routes. Iran, in contrast, has responded with hostility. Ali Akbar Velayati, a key advisor to Irans supreme leader, warned of serious consequences if the "Zangezur Corridor" as Iran calls the route is enacted, asserting that it "will not become a passage owned by Trump, but rather a graveyard for Trumps mercenaries," according to the semi-official news agency Tasnim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iran has even signaled readiness to use military means to block the route. Zelenskyy Not Invited To Upcoming Trump, Putin Talks White House Says This Was The Reason Domestically, Pashinyan faces opposition. Armenian nationalists, already fierce critics of any deal with Azerbaijan, view the agreement as a betrayal. The Republican Party of Armenia has declared that Pashinyan lacks the mandate to sign such a treaty, demanding full transparency and an end to concessions made under external pressure. Pashinyan, however, is undeterred. He said the accord could transform Armenias investment climate and attract foreign capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We expect to have some criticism, and thats part of democracy," he told Fox News Digital. "But we are confident we made the right decision." Once the dominant power in the South Caucasus, Russia is losing its grip. The war in Ukraine, mounting sanctions and resource strains have depleted its regional influence, enabling the U.S., Turkey and the European Union to expand their diplomatic reach. Relations with Azerbaijan particularly soured following the December 2024 downing of Azerbaijan Airlines Flight 8243. Aliyev accused Moscow of accidentally shooting the passenger jet with Russian air defenses during operations against Ukrainian drones, killing 38 people. Aliyev told Fox News Digital he didn't believe the incident was an intentional attack by Russian leadership, but demanded a formal admission of guilt, punishment for those responsible and full compensation moves Russia has resisted, apologizing only vaguely for what they called a "tragic incident." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And amid political divisions, Pashinyan finds himself in a conflict with one of the country's most respected institutions the Armenian Apostolic Church, where figures like Archbishop Bagrat Galstanyan have led public protests against Pashinyans decision to return border villages to Azerbaijan. On June 25, authorities arrested Galstanyan, a leading figure in the church and of the "Sacred Struggle" opposition movement, accusing him of orchestrating a terrorist plot to overthrow the government. Armenia's Investigative Committee alleged he had recruited more than 1,000 former police and military personnel to stage bombings, disrupt power grids and paralyze transportation networks. Pashinyan assured that the judiciary system acted independently of his government and "in full accordance with the law of Armenia, respecting all the rights of all people." Original article source: Armenia and Azerbaijan leaders seek to ease Russian and Iranian concerns after US-brokered peace deal HUNTSVILLE, Ala. The U.S. Army will soon assume a broader mission in defending the U.S. homeland, expanding from a focus on countering intercontinental ballistic missiles to address a much wider variety of threats, from drones to cruise missiles to hypersonic weapons, said Lt. Gen. Sean Gainey, commander of Army Space and Missile Defense Command. Through its 100th Missile Defense Brigade, the Army already manages command-and-control missions for the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense system that is designed to defend the homeland from ICBMs from North Korea and Iran. The GMD system is made up of 44 interceptors buried in the ground at Fort Greeley, Alaska, and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The 100th Missile Defense Brigade is made up of largely National Guardsmen but also includes active-duty soldiers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Defense Department continues to work on the architecture and elements of President Donald Trumps Golden Dome homeland missile defense shield, the Army has been developing capabilities to counter cruise missiles and a wide variety of drones, including systems that can defeat entire swarms. The service is also leading the acquisition of systems that will become a part of the air and missile defense architecture for Guam thats currently taking shape. Those capabilities include the Patriot air-and-missile defense system, a new missile defense radar and the Indirect Fire Protection Capability system that can defend against cruise missiles, drones, rockets, artillery and mortars. The Army, which currently serves as the space component for the GMD system under U.S. Northern Command, will expand into the role of service component command for all air-and-missile defense, Gainey told Defense News in an interview at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama. That aperture has been opened, Gainey said. No longer are we just focused on the GBIs [Ground-Based Interceptors] in Alaska defending the homeland from an ICBM attack. Were now going to be in a role for [US NORTHCOM commander] Gen. [Gregory] Guillot for all of air and missile defense, and its appropriate that its going to reside with Space and Missile Defense Command. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The change will also realign CONUS-based Army Air and Missile Defense Commands, or AAMDCs, under SMDC, giving them a higher headquarters with deep expertise in homeland defense operations. Gainey said the shift will allow the commands to synergize their efforts, optimizing mission sets between the two AAMDCs and improving coordination. Trump estimates Golden Dome will cost $175B over 3 years Gainey, who also commands the Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Air and Missile Defense, or JFCC IAMD, said his team is preparing to support the homeland defense mission more directly. JFCC IAMDs current responsibilities include assessing new missile capabilities, developing multinational missile defense effectiveness and executing joint and combined training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon, Gainey said, it will transform to assist SMDC in the homeland defense initiative. The broader role will be outlined in the upcoming Army Space and Missile Defense strategy, which Gainey said should be released within the next three months. The strategy reflects changes in the threat environment, including the rise of drone warfare, the need for artificial intelligence to manage operator workloads and the growing complexity of regional and trans-regional threats that can reach the U.S. homeland. One key focus will be missile defeat measures that go beyond traditional interceptor-based defense. The masses [of threats] introduce a whole new element into the calculus, Gainey said. We can no longer look at it the same of interceptor on interceptor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While details of the expanded mission are still taking shape, Gainey said the changes will position the Army to take a more holistic approach to homeland defense. Were pretty excited about those opportunities of going from GMD to more holistic air and missile defense, he said. An arrest has been made in the disappearance of Trudy Appleby in 1996. Several law enforcement agencies, including the Henry County States Attorneys Office and the Rock Island County States Attorneys Office, held a press conference Thursday at the Henry County Courthouse in Cambridge. Moline Chief of Police Darren Gault announced that Jamison Fisher, 50, has been charged in Trudys disappearance. Officials say Trudy was strangled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fisher is being charged with three charges of first-degree murder and concealment of a body in connection with her disappearance. Her body still has not been located but authorities mentioned hundreds of cases nationwide that have been prosecuted without a body. The alleged location of the homicide is within Henry Countys jurisdiction. Fisher is being held without bond in the Scott County Jail for parole violation and controlled substance violations. He will be extradited to Henry County at a later date. The 29th vigil for Trudy is scheduled for August 21 but not at the Moline Police Station this year, according to her family. The location will be determined later. This marks the 29th year since her disappearance. Jamison Fisher (2025 Scott County Jail) Henry County States Attorney Catherine Runty said a grand jury has indicted Fisher with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicidal death. The statute of limitations prevented a charge of kidnapping because the case is so old, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you commit crimes, violent crimes in the city of Moline, we will hunt you down, said Moline Police Chief Darren Gault. No matter how long it takes, if it takes us 30 minutes, 30 hours or 30 years, we will find you. This investigation was led by the Moline Police Department and will be prosecuted by the Henry County States Attorney, who is being assisted by the Rock Island County States Attorney and the Office of the Appellate Prosecutor. I am deeply proud of the Moline Police Departments tireless commitment to justice. For nearly all of these years, our community has held on to hope that this day would come. The dedication, skill, and persistence of our officers, combined with the unwavering support of our community, have brought us one step closer to justice for Trudy. Moline is fortunate to have such a highly skilled and determined team serving and protecting our residents, never giving up on cold cases, no matter how much time has passed, said Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati. The arrest of Fisher marks a turning point in this mystery that has spanned nearly three decades. While nothing can bring back young Trudy to her family, the relentless pursuit of justice honors her memory and the unwavering support of her loved ones and our community. The Moline Police Department is committed to seeking the truth for Trudy and her family and to ensure that justice is served, said Gault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Moline Police executed a search warrant in the 600 block of 8th Street in Colona, Gault said in an earlier news release. An excavation crew worked in the area, where a tarp was set up and crime scene tape was placed in the area. This investigation is being done by detectives assigned to the Trudy Appleby case. Detectives are searching the property for any evidence related to her disappearance, the release said. The Trudy Appleby connection Investigators earlier said they believed David Whipple of Colona and Fisher have knowledge of what happened to Trudy, 11 when she went missing, and that they may be involved with the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement William Ed Smith, who was named a person of interest in 2017, is deceased. Whipple died in August 2022. Whipple, a registered sex offender, had been convicted of sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl in Rock Island County. Trudy Appleby The history of the case Trudy was last seen near her home in Moline. Over the years and during many vigils in her memory, her family has pleaded for answers. On Aug. 21, 1996, Trudy Appleby was reported missing by her father, Dennis, from their home in Moline. On the days leading up to Trudys disappearance, she had asked her father to go spend time with a friend who resided on Campbells Island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trudys father did not allow her to go swimming, but phone records show she may have planned to go ahead with her swimming plans. In August 2017, the Moline Police Department released information that a witness observed Trudy Appleby with William Ed Smith in a late model silver Chevrolet four-door near Smiths residence on Campbells Island on Aug. 21, 1996, and listed William Ed Smith as a person of interest in the case. David Whipple was the son-in-law of William Ed Smith and Jamison Fisher is a lifelong family friend of the Smiths, police said. In 2020, Moline Police asked the communitys assistance regarding any information about William Ed Smith, David Whipple, and Jamison Jamie Fisher, and their involvement related to the disappearance of Trudy Appleby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2020, Moline Police asked anyone with information regarding these individuals, the events on that day and the days immediately following to come forward and help bring justice for Trudy Appleby. Please do not assume that we know what you may know. No information is insignificant. The Moline Police Department executes a search warrant in the 600 block of 8th Street in Colona, Illinois, on August 8, 2023. (Jackson Rozinsky, OurQuadCities,com) In January 2022, Our Quad Cities News featured the Trudy Appleby case in our Vanished QC series. Fisher, then a person of interest In the disappearance of Trudy Appleby, was sentenced to up to two years of incarceration after he pleaded guilty to charges in an unrelated case from Nov. 26, 2020. In a plea agreement, Jamison Fisher, then 46, of East Moline Scott County Court records also gave his address as Davenport pleaded guilty to operation without the owners consent, an aggravated misdemeanor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He originally faced a felony charge of first-degree theft in connection with a stolen SUV. Jamison Fisher (2020 Scott County Jail) Fisher and another man were named as suspects in connection with an incident in the area of New Liberty Road and Zenith Avenue, Davenport. A Scott County deputy saw a stolen black Suburban headed east on the 9000 block of New Liberty Road, an arrest affidavit says. The deputy tried to pull the car over in the 8500 block of Northwest Boulevard, but the SUV didnt stop. An Iowa state trooper continued to follow the SUV and made a second traffic stop at the BP gas station at 67th Street and Northwest Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fisher, who was driving, also was charged with eluding, a serious misdemeanor, because he didnt stop for officers, an arrest affidavit says. A passenger in the car ran from the scene. Poster in the Trudy Appleby missing-person case. According to Scott County Court documents filed July 29, 2022, Fisher was in the Iowa Department of Corrections with a tentative discharge date of Dec. 16, 2026. Congressman Eric Sorensen, D-Illinois, issued a statement about the development in the case: Nearly 29 years have passed since young Trudy Appleby vanished from Moline. While nothing can erase the pain or bring Trudy back, this latest development is an important step toward justice. I would like to thank the law enforcement officers who have worked tirelessly through the years for never giving up hope, he said. My heart is with Trudys family and everyone who has carried her memory through the decades, and I stand with our community in the hope that this brings them some measure of peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Stay tuned to Local 4, Fox 18 and OurQuadCities.com for updates. Got a news tip? Forward it to Our Quad Cities News on Twitter or Facebook or download our app on your iPhone or Android phone. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The Brief John Nino, who escaped custody at Seattle-International Airport, was re-arrested in Tacoma. Nino fled from corrections officers at the airport, prompting a manhunt before his capture. The DOC is reviewing protocols after Nino's escape, marking the third recent custody escape at SeaTac. TACOMA, Wash. - A man who escaped from custody at Seattle-International Airport Tuesday night is back behind bars after his arrest was caught on camera in Tacoma. The backstory John Nino was arrested Tuesday afternoon. He escaped as he was being taken through the airport parking garage, just before 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrest happened in a residential neighborhood. Residents say more than a dozen officers flooded the street, pinning the driver in before pulling Nino out of a passenger seat. "I was pressure washing out back and heard some commotion," said Ryan Rogers, a Tacoma neighbor. Rogers took cell phone video of John Nino, sitting in the middle of his residential street, following a dramatic arrest in his neighborhood. "I looked at the guy, and it looked like the guy I saw the day before when I watched the news," said Rogers. The Washington Department of Corrections (DOC) says Nino escaped after running from two corrections officers on the fourth floor of the airport garage, making it across a pedestrian bridge and some railroad tracks before disappearing near Highway 99, prompting an extensive manhunt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The DOC says he was located in a vehicle in King County and followed to Tacoma. "I saw a car here barricaded at both ends," said Rogers. Neighbors say officers pinned the driver, then appeared to break out some windows, which are shattered in the photos. "Busted in and guns were out ready to go," said Rogers. Neighbors say it looked like he'd been in the backseat, with a woman driving. "Unfortunately, her car got busted pretty good," said Rogers. Dig deeper The DOC's Christopher Wright says John Nino was on community supervision for a second-degree robbery conviction out of Thurston County and was transported to Washington after being arrested in New Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Hes been taken into custody a little less than 24 hours after he bolted from the airport," said Wright. The Port of Seattle told us they were not notified that Nino was being transported, which it encourages law enforcement and private transporters to do. Wright says they are reviewing the situation. "We transport about 250 individuals through SeaTac each year, and to my knowledge, part of the protocol does not notify the Port of Seattle," said Wright. This was the third recent escape by someone in custody while being transported through SeaTac. Another fugitive, Sedric Stevenson, escaped from bounty hunters while being transported through the airport back in May, and last month, another person escaped from ICE custody. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rogers can't believe that Nino was found on his street. "They got him on the ground immediately, and he sat out there for a good 35 40 minutes. It was a pretty chaotic scene," he said. The Source Information in this story came from the Washington State Department of Corrections, the Port of Seattle and FOX 13 Seattle reporting. MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE 3 Seattle-area sandwich shops make Yelp's Top 100 list 'Its a zoo': Frustrations grow over Seattle's new bus-only lanes Seattle's 'paddle rave' new summer hit on Lake Union 'Presence, not activity': New tool helps track ICE agents across U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Art mural defaced for second time in Seattle's Chinatown-International District To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter. Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news. NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) The New Bern Police Department has arrested two individuals, Kiyveon Pitts and Lawrence Evertt, in connection with the 2023 murder of 19-month-old NiaLoni Sheptock. Both individuals face charges of felony murder and attempted murder for the assault on her father, Nathan Sheptock. NBPD, Craven County Sheriffs Office, United States Attorneys Office, and the FBI determined the shooting was gang-related and not a random act of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On August 14th, Mr. Everett was arrested in Johnson City, Tennessee, at 5:45 a.m. and awaits extradition to Craven County. Mr. Pitts was apprehended in the New Bern area at 10:30 a.m. and will be held at the Craven County Detention Center. No arrest can undo the tragic loss of NiaLoni Sheptock, but we hope these arrests reaffirm our commitment to justice and deter future violence, said Chief Pat Gallagher. The NBPD and our partners remain dedicated to ensuring community safety and holding those responsible for violent crimes accountable. According to a press release, on July 4th, 2023, at 9:51 p.m., NBPD officers responded to a shooting in the 1000 blocks of Lagrange Street. Officers found 19-month-old NiaLoni Sheptock and her 22-year-old father, Nathan Sheptock, suffering from gunshot wounds inside a vehicle. Both were transported to CarolinaEast Medical Center. Mr. Sheptock was treated and released, but NiaLoni succumbed to her injuries the following day after being transferred to ECU Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE FROM THIS STORY: We will have this case solved, questions remain in death of 1-year-old in New Bern One-year-old girl shot in New Bern has died, police now investigating homicide FULL PRESS 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. HONOLULU (KHON2) On Tuesday, Aug. 12, the Honolulu Fire Department said they were called to Kunia at around 8:45 a.m. The Honolulu Police Department was not far behind with their notification coming in at 9:30 a.m. A brush fire at Kunia Loa Ridge Farmland had everyone scrambling to get the blaze under control. HFD fights wildfire on both sides of Kunia Road And while many fires that occur do not have witnesses to tell the tale. This one did. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to HPD, there was a witness who reported seeing a a male suspect standing near the brush before setting it on fire. The police said the suspect fled the scene after setting it. How to evacuate kupuna, keiki and pets He was identified as driving a dark-colored, four-door sedan with known make, model and license plate, said police. Police said the suspect was also physically identified by the witness. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You According to HPDs witness, the man was described as being a male who stands at approximately 59 and having a stocky build. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there were no injuries and no structural damages reported due to the fire, officials said they have opened an investigation into the arson event. During the fire, the City and County of Honolulu issued a closure notification. According to the City, Kunia Road was closed in both directions between Lyman Gate (Schofield Barracks) and Anonui Street due to the hazardous conditions caused by a brush fire. They said emergency crews were responding and that drivers needed to avoid the area and seek alternate routes. HFD said they were able to extinguish the fire by 11:30 p.m. that evening. You can click here to see the HFD alert, here to see the HPD alert and here to see the City and County of Honolulu traffic alert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HPD has requested that anyone with any information about this fire to contact them by Calling 911. Contacting Crimestoppers at (808) 955-8300. Using the P3 tips app. Stopping by any police station. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 The investigation has been opened and officials are asking for your help in identifying the person believed to be the arsonist. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Nicholas Alahverdian who faked his own death, fled the years and spent years denying his identity has been convicted in Utah of rape. The 38-year-old, who used several different aliases including Arthur Knight, was found guilty in Utah of raping a former girlfriend in 2008 after a whirlwind romance that started after the pair met on MySpace. Alahverdian, who appeared in court in a wheelchair while wearing a suit and an oxygen mask, declined to testify at the trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors described him as an intelligent man who used his charm to manipulate a 24-year-old woman recovering from a traumatic brain injury. What started as financial control, such as demanding she covered the cost of dates, car repairs and loans, quickly escalated to physical assault, they said. During the trial, the victim testified that Alahverdians behavior turned controlling and hostile soon after she purchased their engagement rings and lent him money for rent. She said that when she took off the ring and ended the relationship, it led to an argument and he eventually assaulted her in his Salt Lake City apartment. Alahverdian faces five years to life in prison for the charge and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 20. Nicholas Alahverdian, 38, faked his own death in 2020 with an obituary stating he passed from non-Hodgkin lymphoma (Firecrest Films) "We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place," Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement. "We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alahverdian first came under suspicion in Utah when his DNA was matched to a rape kit as part of a statewide drive to clear testing backlogs in 2018. Months after being charged, an online obituary, dated February 29, 2020, claimed he had died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But Rhode Island law enforcement, alongside his former attorneys and foster family, doubted his death. Alahverdian used at least a dozen aliases, investigators found (Getty) The deception ended in 2021 when hospital workers in Glasgow recognized Alahverdian through his tattoos and matched him to Interpol notices while he was being treated for COVID-19. He was arrested the same year. Alahverdian claimed he was the victim of mistake identity, and that he was in fact an Irish-born orphan called Arthur Knight who had never been to the U.S. The tattoos, he claimed, had been given to him in the hospital as an attempt to frame him. Legal proceedings rumbled on for years until he was finally extradited to Utah in January 2024 to face charges related to the Salt Lake County case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He formally acknowledged he and the alias Arthur Knight were the same person at an October 2024 bail hearing. Investigators believe he used at least a dozen different identities to avoid capture over the years. Alahverdian leaves court in Edinburgh after his extradition hearing. (PA) Alahverdian still faces a second rape trial in nearyby Utah County, which is scheduled for mid-September. He was previously wanted in Rhode Island for failing to register as a sex offender, the Associated Press reported. The FBI has said he faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was also convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. Alahverdian speaks during a live-streamed extradition hearing (AP) Alahverdian has been the subject of multiple documentaries, including the four-part Imposter: The Man Who Came Back from the Dead on the British Channel 4, as well as a December 2024 episode of Dateline NBC. Jury selection in another rape case where he is the defendant is set to begin September 15. An arts centre has pledged to appoint new leadership and condemned the genocide in Gaza after it was occupied by pro-Palestinian activists earlier this summer. Glasgows Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA) has been closed since Art Workers for Palestine Scotland occupied the building on June 24 after the venue could not come to a consensus on endorsing their cultural boycott of Israel. The campaign group had planned to host an unofficial week-long programme of workshops and screenings at the centre, but police were called and a violent altercation ensued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CCA has now issued an apology and announced that plans to turnaround the board would be accelerated. In a statement, a spokesman said the centre acknowledges the disruption, confusion and harm experienced over recent weeks and we sincerely regret the outcome of our decisions on 24 June. He added: We recognise that a lack of clarity on our choices had real human consequences, and for this we are deeply sorry. Art Workers for Palestine Scotland had called on the CCA to boycott Israel Art Workers for Palestine Scotland had called on the CCA to back the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI). But on June 6, the centre announced on Instagram that its board had not come to a consensus on publicly endorsing the boycott. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CCA has now said it will revisit the decision on endorsement of PACBI when the new leadership is in place and is now working towards adopting ethical fundraising and programming policy. The centre said it respects and recognises the urgency of calls to endorse PACBI and it is grateful to those who have challenged us and held us to account, though it will reopen without formal endorsement until the new leadership is in place. It said new diverse board members would be recruited with an intention to widen the scope of experience, background and representation, including global majority. The centre said recruitment would also be launched to replace the current chairman when she completes her term of office in October. The centre, heavily subsided by Creative Scotland, added: We condemn the violence of the Israeli state, the ongoing occupation, genocide, and the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. We stand firmly against all forms of oppression and in support of the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people. Art Workers for Palestine Scotland called on CCA to stand on the side of liberation The announcement was celebrated by Art Workers for Palestine Scotland, which said: CCAs leadership have agreed to almost every demand that has been made of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand this statement to mark a vital and momentous change of direction at CCA a signal towards real institutional decolonisation. It is a huge win, not only for our city of Glasgows proud and defiant solidarity with Palestine, but also internationally. As Glasgows contemporary art centre, CCA must be a beacon for our citys solidarity with Palestine, for anti-colonialism, and for art to stand on the side of liberation. We urge everyone to use the example and precedent of CCA to apply pressure to publicly funded arts organisations. The group had previously condemned the centre for calling the police, which led to the arrest of a 63-year-old woman and an injury to a person. The illusion has been shattered, all trust is lost, the mask has dropped, it had said. The CCA hopes to reopen from the week commencing August 25. 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. ASHEVILLE - Jeremy Horne paced up and down a West Asheville sidewalk as commuters began their drive home from work Aug. 7. The Madison County native occasionally accepted cash or a water bottle from stopped cars at the light. After Horne, 37, suffered severe burns at his Burger King job and had to leave a family members home, he has lived unhoused for about a year while burdened with medical bills, he said. Horne and other panhandlers said they are struggling to get back on their feet amid consistent citations, court dates and even trips to jail for flying signs, a common term for panhandling. Horne has been cited or arrested eight times in 2025 for begging even in places hes legally allowed to be, records show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im trying to do it the right way, not being mean or abusive, but right now I dont have a chance, Horne said. Asheville resident Jeremy Horne, 37, stands at the corner of Haywood Road and Louisiana Avenue, Aug. 7, 2025. Moments later, a car turning left sped in front of two pedestrians crossing Louisiana Avenue with a walk signal. One pedestrian yelled at the car, feet from where Horne spoke to the Citizen Times. Five pedestrians, two of them panhandlers, died in the first half of 2025 after being struck by a car on Ashevilles city streets. Thats one less than the average yearly total in each of the past five years, according to Asheville Police Department data. Asheville ranked first in the state for pedestrian crashes per capita in the decade leading up to 2024, and despite recent limited examples of panhandlers involved in crashes, the city is now looking to extend the prohibition on panhandling verbally or through gestures to new areas of the city, after APD said it would make pedestrians safer. Deputy Chief Sean Aardema presented data in the July 31 Public Safety Committee meeting that says about 30% of pedestrian crashes occur within 25 feet of reported panhandling locations and about 70% happen within 500 feet. Aardema suggested that further restricting panhandlers in "high traffic zones" could reduce pedestrian crashes. While he did not establish that panhandling had directly caused those crashes, he did say "there is a significant amount of overlap in our data." Asheville Police Chief Mike Lamb made a similar argument last year. However, APD could confirm a panhandler was struck in less than 5% of those crashes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics say pedestrian safety would be better protected by improving poor street design and that this move may further burden court resources while shifting blame to some of the citys most vulnerable. More: Asheville police recommend city expand areas where verbal panhandling is illegal What data is being presented? In the past 12 months, APD received 325 calls for service about panhandling and investigated 67 pedestrian collisions, Aardema told the committee. He showed two maps of overlapping hotspots on Patton Avenue, Haywood Road, Tunnel Road and South Tunnel Road, indicating where these calls for service and collisions have happened in the past year. Asheville Police Department maps depict "hotspots" where panhandling calls for service and pedestrian collisions have occurred in the past 12 months, from July 2024 through July 2025. In other parts of the city, there were pedestrian crashes in the last 12 months that police aren't linking to panhandlers because there were little to no panhandling reports in the area, according to Aardema's presentation. These places include Biltmore Village, near the Charles George VA Medical Center and on Hendersonville Road near Mills Gap Road. There was one confirmed crash in Biltmore Village, three nearby, but none in the other locations, APD spokesperson Rick Rice told the Citizen Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Public Safety Committee meeting which includes Chair Bo Hess, Vice Mayor Antanette Mosley and Council member Sheneika Smith APD proposed expanding the citys public solicitation ordinance to include the Haywood Road corridor, Patton Avenue, Tunnel Road and South Tunnel Road as high traffic zones. APD also asked that the current downtown zone be expanded to Merrimon Avenue and South Slope. The corner of Haywood Road and Louisiana Avenue, Aug. 7, 2025. This would mean people asking for handouts in these common panhandling areas will no longer be able to beg verbally or through gestures, City Attorney Brad Branham explained. If they do, police can write them a citation with up to a $50 fine as determined in court. Panhandlers would still be allowed to walk or pace with a sign along sidewalks, city spokesperson Kim Miller confirmed. The expansion passed the committee with a unanimous 3-0 vote but needs approval at the next full city council meeting on Aug. 26 to be tacked onto the ordinance. No data was presented in the meeting showing how many pedestrians were hit while panhandling. Rice told the Citizen Times at least two victims of the 67 crashes in the past 12 months were panhandling before being struck: Tyler Michael White, 37, and Claude Alie-Alexander McPherson, 62, who died from their injuries. Lamb said a third person was struck with White. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both crashes happened while they were on Patton Avenues center median or crossing off it, which is already prohibited by city ordinance. Although there may be additional incidents of collision victims who were panhandling, I wasn't able to locate any, Rice said. More: Police ID 2nd pedestrian killed at Patton Ave. intersection; well known as 'Cat Man' How would expansion improve pedestrian safety? Virginia Hebert, a Buncombe County public defender who represents low-income people, said she drives the Patton Avenue corridor daily and doesnt recall seeing a panhandler doing much else but standing with a sign. Hebert said she often sees people in jail custody on city ordinance violations, especially if the police interaction leads to additional charges. If they miss a court date on a citation, they can end up in jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For other panhandlers, like Horne, it feels as though the city has already restricted solicitation, which is an act of speech protected under the First Amendment. In July, Horne had an active warrant for his arrest after he was found soliciting by written word on the corner of Brevard and Haywood Road, court records show. With no median at the intersection, the sidewalk is the only place to stand and fly. More: With changes to Asheville ordinances pending, Mars Hill approves panhandling ban Asheville resident Jeremy Horne, 37, speaks to the Asheville Citizen Times at the corner of Haywood Road and Louisiana Avenue, Aug. 7, 2025. Just three days before, Horne was cited for begging by written word on the sidewalk at the intersection of Patton Avenue and North Louisiana Avenue, his citation reads. If no other laws were broken, city ordinance allows him to be there even if the corridor becomes a "high traffic zone." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homeless, anything helps. God bless, Hornes sign read. While he admitted hes been cited at highway exits where hes not supposed to be, his go-to spots are on sidewalks for his own safety. Chief Lamb told the Citizen Times in an early July phone interview that council members, city leaders and community stakeholders are concerned with the intermingling of pedestrians and traffic in West Asheville and have asked APD to compile this data. He said some collision reports have noted panhandling as a contributing factor to crashes. He gave an example of a driver exiting Interstate 40 who stopped at a green light to give money to someone, causing the driver behind to crash into the stopped car. He also mentioned crashes that killed McPherson and White, the latter of which was caused by an impaired driver who ran up onto the median. More: Weaverville woman charged in April fatal hit-and-run on Patton Ave Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith, who asked APD about the high traffic zones goal, told the Citizen Times she believes that limiting verbal solicitation and how pedestrians move in and out of traffic might reduce distracted drivers and dangerous interactions near roadways. Hess acknowledged in an Aug. 6 phone interview with the Citizen Times that there might not be a direct cause but said theres an increased risk for crashes with certain behaviors. He reiterated that the city is in no way criminalizing homelessness or preventing people from asking for help but instead asking them to do it in a different place. North Carolina has ranked top 20 in the nation for its rate of pedestrian deaths each year since 1994, the earliest data available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In 2023, 229 North Carolinians were killed on foot, the seventh highest number in the U.S. Asheville certainly contributes to the states ranking, with the seventh-most fatal pedestrian crashes per capita of any North Carolina city from 2015-24, according to NCDOT data. While the state ranks about average for the United States, that average is bleak compared to the rest of the world, at three times that of other developed countries and rising. The nations pedestrian death toll rose 58 percent from 2013 to 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CDC suggests the following methods for reducing pedestrian deaths: create safer roadways and vehicles, establish safer speeds, support safer road users, and improve post-crash care. If safety is the goal, street design should be at the forefront of the conversation, Mike Sule, executive director of Asheville on Bikes, told the Citizen Times Aug. 7. More: Never again: Asheville cycling community mourns humble, kind men killed by dump truck Jesse Rabinowitz, who analyzes policies nationwide with the National Homelessness Law Center in Washington D.C., said this follows a similar pattern seen across the nation of elected officials scapegoating poor folks and people experiencing homelessness for their own failings in this case, not making the roads safe, he said in a late July phone interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is absolutely our fault for not investing in safe and complete streets and not passing practical safety measures like the one that is before us, Hess said in response. 'Zero enforcement?' One person: 10 citations. Two arrests. Horne and other panhandlers expressed frustration, saying they feel harassed and that officers have told them they have zero-tolerance for panhandling. The Citizen Times asked Rice about the claim, who said there's no such policy. When asked for more context on Hornes citations, Rice said citations are merely notices to appear in court, where anyone cited can address the matter if they believe it was unwarranted. Hebert, the public defender, said more restrictions or enforcement of the panhandling ordinance could further overburden court and jail resources on charges and citations that are usually dismissed, she said. I imagine we will see an uptick in people coming through the system the size of the uptick will depend on how often APD enforces the expanded ordinance, Hebert told the Citizen Times Aug. 6. In Asheville's current high traffic zones, APD issued seven citations downtown and none in Biltmore Village in the past 12 months, Rice said. In all, APD issued 129 citations while responding to 381 panhandling calls for service in the past year. Hess said the hope is that there is zero enforcement of the new ordinance and the rollout will be done through communication, warnings and connecting people to resources. Were not out to ticket and fine people. That isnt the way out of poverty, Hess said. Asheville resident Victoria Woodall, 45, speaks to the Asheville Citizen Times at the corner of Haywood Road and Louisiana Avenue, Aug. 7, 2025. Victoria Woodall, 45, said she has waited three years for housing through the Housing Authority of the city of Asheville. She said police have given her warnings for panhandling on the sidewalk before. She was quick to say they have never connected her to resources. And thats so stupid. Thats what theyre there for, to serve and protect, Woodall said, adding that there are many factors that lead to homelessness and people are never as far away from it as they might think. Meanwhile, her community is grieving the loss of two of their friends, White and McPherson. Jessica Arrington, 29, called her friend Tyler White a goofy guy who helped anybody he could. Asheville resident Jessica Arrington, 29, wipes a tear away while speaking to the Asheville Citizen Times at the corner of Haywood Road and Louisiana Avenue, Aug. 7, 2025. One of my friends got killed on Patton and theyre using that as an excuse for why theyre harassing us, she said. Arrington has been cited or charged 10 times for panhandling since February, court records show. Two arrests. Five dismissals. More: Marshall cyclists asked for scenic byway changes months before 2 men killed: NCDOT reviews Ryley Ober is the Public Safety Reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at rober@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @ryleyober This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Asheville officials might restrict panhandling amid pedestrian crashes Related video: Fire destroys apartment complex under construction in Ogden OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is responding to investigate the cause of the fire that destroyed an apartment building under construction in Ogden, indicating that they may be considering arson as a possibility. The ATF has sent its National Response Team in order to conduct a joint investigation with the Ogden City Fire Department (OCFD), at the request of OCFD. The ATF is the federal agency that investigates fires and arson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 3-story Ogden apartment building a total loss after late-night fire Late on August 8, fire crews responded to a fire on the 100 block of 18th Street. A three-story apartment building that was still under construction was burning, and a small grass fire nearby was sparked, possibly by embers of the structure fire. Courtesy of Ogden Fire Dept. Courtesy of Ogden Fire Dept. While firefighters were able to get the fire under control within an hour, the building was completely destroyed, causing an estimated $3 million worth of damages. Investigators are looking into the origin and cause of the fire, and due to the ATFs involvement, it appears that they are considering arson as a possibility in this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Response Team consists of a variety of specialists, including fire protection engineers, electrical engineers, forensic chemists, and digital forensic specialists. They provide technology like unmanned aerial systems, 3D scanning, forensic mapping, and portable labs in order to help determine the origin of fires and explosions. 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. ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) A Limestone County judge is sending the capital murder case of Morgan Skye Thornton to a grand jury following a Thursday morning hearing that included grim details on the violent death of an infant. Thornton, 35, of Athens, is charged with killing her infant son on Aug. 1. She will remain in jail, as the court denied bond for her. During Thursdays hearing, an investigator with the Limestone County Sheriffs Office testified they found blood on a wall near the crib in the childs room and in a diaper pail. Testimony also noted there was bruising on the childs legs, consistent with the baby being held upside down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigator testified that the childs father called 911 after Thornton told him she had killed a demon, and he discovered the baby inside the diaper pail. Deputies believed she was intoxicated at the time of her arrest, the investigator testified. He also testified that Thornton told deputies she had beaten the child. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 new plan to complete the Atlanta BeltLine includes a proposal to add light rail along a significant segment, with an estimated cost of $3.5 billion. The proposed light rail would run along a five-and-a-half-mile segment in the northwest quadrant of the BeltLine, from Bankhead to Lindbergh, following the CSX rail line. This plan, however, does not include the cost of MARTA stations along the Beltline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its a wonderful idea to lift some of the traffic, improve infrastructure, and Atlanta is still growing, adding support that takes some cars off the street, said Vera, a Beltline visitor. RELATED STORIES: Jonathan Smith, another BeltLine visitor, expressed concerns. I just dont think its a good idea. I mean, this is more pedestrian and people on bicycles. Its already congested, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plan also calls for extending the streetcar to connect with the BeltLine and adding more light rail near the Krog Street Tunnel. MARTA engineers are expected to make a final recommendation this winter. As Atlanta continues to grow, the proposed light rail addition to the BeltLine could significantly impact the citys infrastructure and traffic patterns, pending a final recommendation from MARTA engineers., Hinkle Fieldhouse on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis. (Niki Kelly/Indiana Capital Chronicle) Attorney General Todd Rokita escalated two investigations into alleged discrimination at one of the nations top Catholic universities and at a second private Indiana college. His office recently issued civil investigative demands similar to a subpoena to the University of Notre Dame and Butler University, probing into diversity, equity and inclusion practices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Treating people differently based on skin color has no place in our state. The universities responses to our investigations will determine whether further action is needed to vindicate Indianas commitment to equality, Rokita said in a Thursday news release. Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita speaks at an environmental deregulation event at an Indianapolis truck dealership on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. (Leslie Bonilla Muniz/Indiana Capital Chronicle) A U.S. Supreme Court decision in 2023 struck down affirmative action in college admissions. It has led to broader challenges to diversity programs and initiatives across higher education. Rokita sent initial letters in May seeking information, but says now that the universities didnt provide meaningful responses. A third university, DePauw, did respond and that investigation is ongoing, a news release said. In the Aug. 6 letter to Notre Dame, Rokita said I appreciate the contributions that Notre Dame makes to our state and country and respect the Universitys religious mission. However, neither Notre Dames religious mission nor the benefits it may provide to the state would excuse the University from complying with civil rights and nonprofit laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Aug. 13 letter to Butler included similar language, but focused more on the nonprofit status. The suggestion by your attorney in your June 27 Response that the Office of the Attorney General lacks authority to investigate potential legal violations committed by a private nonprofit university is incorrect. As a domestic nonprofit corporation organized and operating under Indiana law, Butler University is subject to Indianas nonprofit statute. Both of the letters included language saying that nonprofit and educational institutions are supposed to provide a public benefit to the state and that complying with civil rights laws is critically important. However, the office went on to say it wasnt enough for leaders to say they complied they also needed to meet his civil investigative demands. Responses from Notre Dame, Butler In a statement to the Indiana Capital Chronicle, Notre Dame said it didnt discriminate based on race or ethnicity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a faith-based institution driven by its religious values, Notre Dame strives to treat every member of our community in a manner consistent with our firmly held Catholic beliefs. At the heart of these beliefs is the recognition that we are all children of God, deserving of dignity and respect from one another. We are likewise committed to the rule of law. Accordingly, Notre Dame does not discriminate based on race or ethnicity. We are in receipt of the attorney generals letter and will respond in due course. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Bulter said it was assessing the scope and implications of Rokitas legal maneuver but likewise said it didnt discriminate. We stand by the response we submitted on June 27, which affirmed that Butler University does not treat individuals differently based on race or ethnicity. We are committed to ensuring that our policies and practices comply with federal and state laws. Butler remains committed to our founding mission of providing equal access to education for all and fostering a learning environment where every student has the opportunity to succeed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rokita maintains that materials posted on the universities websites suggest that various aspects of Notre Dames and Butlers operations may be governed by policies that treat individuals including students, prospective students, faculty, staff and job applicants differently based on the individuals race or ethnicity; employ race in a negative manner when making admissions or hiring decisions; utilize racial stereotyping; or allocate university resources based on race. In March, Notre Dame also came under fire when the U.S. Department of Education included Notre Dame among 50 universities targeted for allegedly using racial preferences and stereotypes in education programs, according to WSBT. In that investigation, the university could face losing federal funding if found in violation. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX RICHMOND, Va. (WAVY) On Thursday, Attorney General Jason Miyares joined a bipartisan coalition to call for Instagram to strengthen its privacy protections. The coalition comes after Instagrams newest location-sharing feature, which, according to Metas website, shares your last active location on a map. Meta states the feature is off by default and that people have to opt in in order to share their location with friends. Instagram unveils new location sharing and reposting features Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I urge Meta to take immediate action to address these serious concerns and strengthen location and data privacy protections, Miyares said. According to a release, 37 attorneys general got together to write a letter to Instagram, highlighting the dangers of showing a users precise location, specifically noting the dangers for children and survivors of domestic violence. Some of what is included in the letter to Instagram includes: Ensuring that minors cannot enable location-sharing features Sending a clear alert to all adult users explaining the feature, outlining its risks and providing full disclosure of how Instagram will use their location data Providing a simple, easy-to-access control to disable location sharing at any times for adult Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full letter can be read 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 WAVY.com. UPDATE: Liu is in custody in Garland County as of Aug. 15, according to Sheriff Mike McCormick, and is being held in the Garland County Detention Center. No bond has been set. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announced the arrest of a man facing charges related to human trafficking through his Hot Springs businesses at a Thursday news conference. Griffin said Zengguang Gary Liu was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service and the Oklahoma City Police Department. While in custody there, Griffin said, multiple Arkansas warrants were served on him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hot Springs locals react to human trafficking investigation at massage business Griffin said the warrants were related to a July 28 raid on three Hot Springs massage parlors as part of his offices ongoing Operation Obscure Vision that began in January. Information gathered in the raids determined that Liu owned the three parlors. Liu is facing felony charges of trafficking of persons and unauthorized use of another persons property to facilitate certain crimes, the attorney general said. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin announces organized retail crime bust & human trafficking investigation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to gathering information that led us to the owner of the establishments, we seized about $16,000 in cash, including currency from China and four other foreign countries, Griffin said. We also obtained valuable information about how these establishments work and how the victims, who are forced to work as sex slaves, are being lured and transported to the United States. Three Chinese nationals were provided services following the raids, Griffin said. Griffin said one victim explained that a social media video in China promised her work in America. Seeing the video, she spent her life savings to fly to Turkey, where she was given a visa and put on a cruise ship to Mexico. Attorney General Tim Griffin talks combating human trafficking in Arkansas Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After arriving in Mexico, the woman continued, she crossed the border on foot and claimed asylum after reaching the United States. Afterward, a friend in California recruited her for illicit massages and she was eventually sent to Hot Springs. Another victim gave an almost identical story, and the third said she responded to an ad on a website in China and was sent to Los Angeles, where she also claimed asylum, Griffin said. She worked first in Los Angeles and Seattle before being brought to Hot Springs. Griffin said two customers of the parlors were questioned and released during the July 28 raid. Griffin said what was learned through the raids matches intelligence and reports his office has received about Chinese criminals have gained a firm foothold in the American illicit massage business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six arrested, 38 victims found in Arkansas human trafficking recovery operation He is committed to rooting out this crime and holding criminals accountable, the attorney general said. In May, the attorney general announced that the state received a $100,000 grant to help address human trafficking. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Former death row inmate Richard Glossip is still making his case to be released. In a new filing by his legal team, they say Attorney General Gentner Drummond initiated a deal in exchange for something else. In court documents filed on Monday by Richard Glossips attorneys, they say they agreed to a Civil Release-Dismissal back in 2023. Part of the deal included Glossip pleading guilty to a lesser charge surrounding the murder of his boss, Oklahoma City motel owner Barry Van Treese. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED: Judge denies bond for Richard Glossip Per the agreement, Glossip would be freed in exchange for him not suing the state. Criminal Defense Attorney Joe Griffin said, The reason for suing the state was, number one, he didnt get a fair trial. If that was found and had the district attorney went ahead and dismissed the case, then Mr. Glossip would then have a case against the state for that wrongful trial and the things that he, he was subjected to. In February 2025, after the United States Supreme Court overturned Glossips conviction, his attorneys say they were assured the deal would stand and that the Attorney General planned to effectuate the deal in court on April 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When these agreements fall apart, its number one, theres a breach by the defendant. We dont have that here. The second thing is, new evidence has come to light. Theres no new evidence here, Attorney Griffin added. Last month, Attorney General Drummond said the deal was unfinalized and long abandoned by both parties, despite an email from him in 2023 saying, We are in agreement. News 4 reached out to the Attorney Generals Office today for an interview or response to the brief; his office says they do not comment on active cases outside of the courtroom and court filings. Attorney Griffin said, Why has this fallen apart? We have to ask that question because the AG himself has said that the main witness in this is not reliable. Theyre not credible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Richard Glossip is still awaiting a new trial. Theres a court hearing on Thursday, and News 4 will be there to let you know what happens. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. A legislative staff audit found Idaho State University likely misused state funds from a 2022 legislative appropriation for a now-defunct pathology lab. (Christina Lords/Idaho Capital Sun) Editors Note: This story was updated Aug. 14 at 4:23 p.m. with comments from Idaho State University. A legislative audit found that Idaho State University likely misused funds intended for a never-realized forensic pathology center in Pocatello. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report found that the university appeared to pay Bannock County funds improperly in order to avoid reverting the unspent money to the state. The issue may go to Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador for further investigation. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US The Legislative Services Office released the audit report Wednesday, which was too limited in scope to conclude malfeasance, Auditor April Renfro wrote in the audit summary, but facts that may indicate misappropriation of public funds were forwarded to the states chief litigator for further consideration. Labradors office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on if an investigation will be pursued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ISU paid an invoice for $853,700 from Bannock County that was not supported by evidence of allowable expenses and appeared to have been directed and submitted to avoid reverting unspent general funds to the State of Idaho, as required, the report said. ISU President Robert Wagner and Chief Financial Officer Jennifer Steele responded in a letter that the university takes seriously the findings of the audit and its recommendations for use of public funds. We acknowledge the concerns raised in the report and agree to continue to implement measures to ensure appropriate accountability for financial transactions, the university leaders wrote. ISU spokesperson Emily Frandsen told the Idaho Capital Sun in an emailed statement that university officials had remained hopeful that the new forensic pathology lab would not only address a critical community need but also provide valuable educational opportunities for ISU students, aligning with our mission to prepare future health care professionals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that the university and county officials worked in good faith on the project before it was canceled. ISU takes responsibility for not maintaining stricter oversight and accountability regarding the legislative appropriation, Frandsen wrote. The University is committed to transparency and accountability, and has taken several steps to ensure legislative intent is followed in the future, including the formation of an Appropriation Tracking and Oversight Team to enhance communication and coordination, and strengthen internal controls. Audit spurred by Idaho senator and a conservative think tank IFF article The funds originated from a 2022 budget bill to the university for a proposed East Idaho Forensic Pathology Center, which would have been built on ISUs campus and operated by Bannock County. The Legislature provided $900,000 for initial costs incurred on the project; ISU spent $46,300 in design consultation and cost estimates, the Sun previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The university on April 20, 2023, paid Bannock County the remaining $853,700 for the project but didnt specify what those costs related to, the report said. The project eventually stalled because of the high costs for construction and to run autopsies, the Sun reported. In November 2024, the conservative think tank Idaho Freedom Foundation published an article citing public records showing that the funds were never reverted back to the state. Sen. Glenneda Zuiderveld, R-Twin Falls, that same month sent out a press release alleging ISU misappropriated the funds for the defunct project and calling for an investigation, the Sun reported. The report cited the IFF article and emails showing that the university appeared concerned about ensuring appropriation was not reverted to the Idaho State General Fund by stating that we need to expend the $900K state appropriation to ISU by June 30, 2023. We think the cleanest path forward is for the county to invoice us for the $900K. The invoice did not include details on what costs were incurred that it was for, as required by the bill providing the funds, House Bill 776. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We found no evidence that ISU attempted to obtain additional documentation to support the expenditure or to recover the funds until after the media and Legislature began asking questions, the report said. ISU has taken steps to address findings in report The report found that ISU employees interpreted the money as pass-through funds for the county, which was problematic because that is not how they were indicated on the legislation appropriating the money. Bannock County in late 2024 and early 2025 returned the money through two checks totaling $853,700, to ISU, which then sent the money back to the state treasury, the report said. The audit provided two recommendations to the university: develop and follow written procedures for proper monitoring and compliance with appropriation laws, and improve internal controls to ensure payments are supported by appropriate documentation and actual expenditures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February of this year, the university created an Appropriations Tracking and Oversight Team, meant to ensure state money is expended in full compliance with the legislative intent and law. University leaders cited the new team in its response letter and said they had implemented new procedures. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BOSTON (WWLP) Bay State Auditor Diana DiZoglio has been fighting to audit the state legislature for years, and 9 months after a ballot question was approved giving her the authority to do so, the battle continues. Man arrested in alleged politically motivated vandalism of State House DiZoglio ran for auditor in 2022 on the promise of examining the state legislatures finances, and after the legislature resisted her efforts, she led the campaign for a ballot measure giving her the authority to conduct the audit, which passed with an overwhelming majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since that ballot question passed last November, DiZoglio says she still has not received the records she has been requesting from the House and Senate. She hired a private law firm to sue the legislature. Additionally, she took the unusual step of waiving attorney-client privilege to release communication between her office and the office of Attorney General Andrea Campbell. The auditor has repeatedly called on the attorney general to step in and force compliance with the ballot measure. The AG says her office needs more answers from the auditor, and she can not step in legally without more information, while the auditor maintains that shes already shared the relevant information. Meanwhile, the House and Senate say the records DiZoglio is requesting are already publicly available, and they have concerns about constitutionality of the audit and her objectivity due to her stints in both chambers. Perhaps the harshest insult in Massachusetts politics, DiZoglio compared the House and Senates actions to the Trump Administration, while the senate president has compared DiZoglio to Trump himself. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. AUSTINTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Austintown Bounce is jumping into a new era, one that takes them back to where it all began. The beloved local business is closing its indoor play center in Austintown Plaza. But theyre not shutting down. Instead, theyre returning to their roots as an outdoor inflatable rental company. The business will continue, so the bouncing fun isnt over just yet. Its been so much fun, said Bruce Shepas, Austintown Bounce co-owner. Our children grew up here. They worked here. All of our friends. Families. Business owners. Weve built so many relationships with local businesses in the Mahoning Valley. I cant express the mixed emotions that we have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last day for the indoor play center will be Sept. 9. They will hold an auction for video games, concession equipment and more everything except the inflatables. You can still book your inflatables and theyll be debuting a new website to make your reservations 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 WKBN.com. (Reuters) -Australia's corporate regulator said on Thursday it had taken pension fund Mercer Super to court, alleging it failed to disclose investigations into major member service failures, including wrong insurance refunds to deceased members. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission said Mercer lacked adequate systems to comply with the reportable situations regime, which requires financial services licensees to promptly disclose ongoing investigations into significant breaches of their obligations. The alleged breaches occurred between October 2021 and September 2024. ASIC also claims Mercer understated the number of affected members in reports to the regulator. "We allege a pattern of longstanding and systemic failure by Mercer Super to comply with the law," said Sarah Court, the regulator's deputy chair. The case comes after the Federal Court fined Mercer A$11.3 million ($7.4 million) in August 2024 for making false claims about the environmental, social and governance credentials of its investments. Mercer Super did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. ($1 = 1.5267 Australian dollars) (Reporting by Rishav Chatterjee in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona) Australia and Vanuatu have agreed to a 10-year deal, aimed at strengthening security and economic ties, worth A$500m ($328m; 241m). The so-called Nakamal agreement - the result of months of negotiations - will transform Australia's relationship with its Pacific neighbour, leaders from both countries said on Wednesday. "We are family," Australia's deputy prime minister Richard Marles said, adding, "Our future is very much bound together". Vanuatu's leader Jotham Napat described the deal as "win-win situation" for both nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deal, to be officially signed in September, comes as Australia tries to grow its influence in the region, to counter China's increased spending and power. While the Australian government did not provide further details of the deal, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reports it will provide funds to build two large data centres in the capital, Port Vila, and Vanuatu's largest island, Santo. Millions will also be poured into helping the low-lying island to deal with the impacts of climate change, as well as building up its security. In earlier stages of the negotiations, visa-free travel for citizens of Vanuatu was also discussed and considered a key part of the deal. However, Napat told the media on Wednesday that this issue would be covered in a "subsidiary" agreement, yet to be confirmed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear what, if any, commitments Vanuatu has given Australia as part of the deal. A similar agreement fell through in 2022, after Vanuatu's previous prime minister pulled out at the last minute over security concerns, according to the ABC. At a press conference on the side of a volcano on Tanna island, one of 80 plus in the Vanuatu archipelago, Marles emphasised the "shared destiny" of the two countries. "[The deal] acknowledges that as neighbours, we have a shared security environment and a commitment to each other," he said. Australia's Foreign Minister added that the deal was about the long-term future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The most important thing [about the deal] is where we will be [in] three and five and ten years," Penny Wong said. Vanuatu's prime minister Napat said the agreement will bring "a lot of great benefits between the two countries, whether it be the security agreement, economic transformation, with some specific focus on the mobile labour mobility and financial support". This week's Vanuatu deal comes after Australia signed similar pacts with several of its other Pacific neighbours in recent months. Canberra struck a new A$190m security deal with the Solomon Islands last December, with similar agreements also in place with Tuvalu and Papua New Guinea. Animal trafficking is an issue around the globe, but some authorities are fighting back, as evidenced by one incident on a bus in Brazil. According to Need to Know, a man on his way to just outside Rio de Janeiro was caught smuggling 600 red-footed hatchling tortoises. The bus was stopped in Teresopolis for a security inspection on July 31. What's happening? When questioned, he told police officers he had never smuggled animals before, but he had been arrested for animal smuggling in 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Federal Highway Police, via Need to Know, each red-footed tortoise is worth about $128 on the black market, and they are frequently targeted by smugglers because of their color and calm nature. Sadly, many of the tortoises died because of the conditions in which they were being transported. It's unclear what happened to the remaining tortoises. The case has been handed over to the Environmental Protection Police in Rio de Janeiro. Why is animal trafficking concerning? The red-footed tortoise, native to South America, is not native to Brazil. They can grow to 22 lbs and reach 12-16 inches in length. While not all non-native species are invasive, the ones that are can be detrimental to the local environment. Invasive species typically enter new places through human activity. They compete for resources with native species and can usually spread quickly. They can even cause some native species to become extinct, which can have severe consequences on the ecosystem. It requires a balance, and if one goes extinct, it can put others in danger, too, that rely on it for food or shelter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, invasive species can harm the economy by damaging crops and livestock. It costs $20 billion a year to assess the damages. Some invasive species can even carry diseases. Take the Asian tiger mosquito, for instance. It entered the U.S. in the mid-1980s, originally from northern Asia, and it can carry diseases such as West Nile virus. What's being done about animal trafficking? While authorities are doing their best to catch animal smugglers like this, the U.S. has moved to protect pangolins, the most trafficked mammal. International trade of these animals has been illegal since 2016. However, they are still hunted for their scales and their meat. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has added the mammal to the Endangered Species List. You can also use your voice to help more actions like this happen to protect these vulnerable species. 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 routine patrol off the coast of Sabah turned into a high-stakes wildlife crime bust when authorities uncovered nearly 2,000 pounds of illegal cargo. What's happening? According to The Star, three Filipino nationals in the Malaysian state were sentenced to prison and slapped with hefty fines after authorities discovered body parts from critically endangered green sea turtles aboard their boat. Authorities found the cargo stuffed inside 39 sacks and 14 boxes. The Sabah Wildlife Department led the investigation, and the trio was formally charged on Dec. 9 under the Wildlife Conservation Enactment 1997. Why is turtle trafficking concerning? Green sea turtles are protected under both Malaysian law and international agreements such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As one of the world's few remaining ancient mariners, they play a key role in keeping marine ecosystems including coral reefs and seagrass beds healthy. Green sea turtles help maintain seagrass by grazing, which supports fish nurseries and stabilizes the sea floor. Without them, unchecked seagrass overgrowth can suffocate coral reefs, reduce oxygen levels, and disrupt the habitat of commercially important fish species, threatening food security and local economies. What's being done about turtle trafficking? Sabah authorities have stepped up maritime patrols and wildlife monitoring, and this recent conviction marked a win for regional enforcement. "The Sabah Wildlife Department greatly appreciates the cooperation and swift action of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency in Kudat District, who successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle turtle products in Sabah waters," Sabah Wildlife Department Director Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But protecting endangered species such as green sea turtles will require more than just law enforcement. Everyday people can help by refusing to buy wildlife products, supporting sustainable seafood certifications, and staying informed about threats to ocean health. Small shifts in consumer behavior can help reduce demand. You can also support marine conservation groups or read more about local climate action initiatives. 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. NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) This fall, Avelo Airlines plans to start flying nonstop to Floridas Key West International Airport, company officials announced Thursday. The new service will connect Tweed-New Haven Airport starting on Nov. 19. City of New Haven prohibits use of public funds for travel, promotion, collaboration involving Avelo Airlines It will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Avelos new nonstop route to the Florida Keys showcases the continued demand for convenient, affordable and industry-leading reliability in Southern Connecticut. Likewise, getting to Southern Connecticut and everything the greater New England and New York regions have to offer is now easier than ever for those Key West travelers, Avelo Airlines founder and CEO Andrew Levy 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. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. Theres a quiet revolution in how millions of Americans decide whats real. Trust is slipping away from traditional institutionsmedia, government, and higher educationand shifting to individual voices online, among them social-media creators. The Reuters Institute reports that this year, for the first time, more Americans will get their news from social and video platformsincluding Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and Xthan from traditional outlets. According to Pew Research, one in five adults now regularly turns to influencers for news. For anyone who cares about credible information, this is a potentially terrifying prospect. Social media rewards virality, not veracity. Spend five minutes scrolling TikTok or Instagram, and you might encounter influencers educating you about a global elite running the world from hidden continents behind an ice wall in Antarctica, or extolling the virtues of zeolite, a volcanic binder for mold that will vacuum clean all kinds of toxins to lift brain fog, prevent cancer, and remove microplastics from testicles. (Link to purchase in bio.) Its an environment perfectly engineered to scale both misinformation and slick grifts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet the popular notion that social media is just a dumpster fire of viral lies misses something vital: Millions of people still care about truth. They are seeking facts on social media from credible voices they can trust. They just arent always sure where to find them or from whom. I know because I interact with these people every day. I was among the first independent journalists to bring news reporting to Instagram; today, my outlet, News Not Noise, spans Instagram, YouTube, a podcast, Substack, and other platforms. In my years of directly engaging with an on-platform audience, the question I receive more than any other remains, simply: Is this true? Im here to tell you the truth isnt dead. Thousands of people like me operate online as what I call evidence-based creators. Were journalists and specialists who use expertise, original reporting, and reliable sources to refute misinformation, add context to breaking news, and answer the endless questions flooding our DMs. The topics we cover range from redistricting to medical misinformation, beauty fads to whether that viral health-food trend might actually kill you. The work is an uphill battle. My cohort is not John Oliverlevel media personalities with PR teams, production crews, and a research staff to fact-check the punch lines. We are independent voices operating without safety nets. I like to think of us as the digital equivalent of artisanal chefs working in a factory for mass-produced junk food. The very things that make us valuableour obsession with facts, our commitment to nuance, our hours spent answering audience questions in the appsput us at a profound disadvantage in the attention economy. What does it take to produce a slick video claiming that beef tallow is natures Viagra? Fifteen minutes with an iPhone and zero regard for reality. While were still sourcing assertions and trying to make complex ideas both accurate and engaging, the bullshit factory has already pumped out six more viral falsehoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our secret weapon isnt production value or algorithm hacking; its trust. When I debunk a viral lie, Im not a faceless institution. Im the person whos been with my audience while they brush their teeth every morning, the person whos been in their ears during commutes, the person whose face theyve studied through hundreds of 90-second windows into complex issues. This isnt an audience of passive consumers. Theyre hungry for moremore reporting on more topics, more conversations with experts, more explanations that break things down but dont treat an audience like idiots. Can the Supreme Court disbar an attorney? Will the military disobey unconstitutional orders? Do I need another measles vaccine as an adult? All of this leaves evidence-based creators in a strange limbo. Were clearly valued; Substack, for instance, is proving that audiences are willing to stop scrolling and financially support verifiers they trust. But were still largely disconnected from the resources and collaborative frameworks that could multiply our impact. Were working so hard at the work itself that we have little opportunity to build the scaffolding required to create a durable new model in digital publishingone that includes tools such as high-powered marketing and growth engines to reach new audiences, editorial oversight to help with difficult judgment calls, and shared research that would prevent each of us from having to build expertise from scratch with every breaking story. I see this obstacle as an opportunity. History shows us that industries facing technological disruption tend not to simply collapsethey transform. Look at what happened to the music industry when Spotify and its streaming cohort crashed the party. In the old days, musicians lived and died by album sales and radio play, with major labels acting as gatekeepers. Then streaming blew the doors off. The revolution was messy. Many artists found themselves with more listeners than ever but paychecks that wouldnt cover a months worth of ramen. What helped the music industry find its footing wasnt nostalgia for CDs or vinyl. It was new infrastructure: playlist curation that helped listeners find their next obsession, analytics tools that told artists who was actually listening, distribution services that got music onto platforms, and business models that went beyond streaming royalties to include direct-to-fan revenue and merchandising. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Artists still face challenges, but now labels are investing heavily in data to understand trends, offering artists different types of deals, and using their marketing muscle to help artists cut through the digital noise. The industry evolved by creating tools that complemented streaming algorithms instead of fighting them, helping artists understand their audiences instead of just praying for a decent playlist placement. In our current information ecosystem, were stuck in the awkward adolescence of a media revolution. The need for innovation couldnt be more urgent. Local newspapers are dying like mall food courts2,500-plus have shut down since 2005. Traditional media outlets are under assault by the Trump administration. And AI is flooding us with convincing fake content, making human truth tellers all the more necessary. Conversations about the press and the tech revolution often get stuck on the problems with or the inadequacy of any solution. Its time that changed. So Ill take the leap and propose some imperfect innovations. First, audiences could benefit from an independent, off-platform certification system to help them discern which independent voices adhere to journalistic standards. Not to be all Papers, please about it, but audiences need signals about whos committed to accuracy versus whos just chasing likes. One solution: a nonprofit voluntary opt-in LEED-type certification that awards something like a blue check markbut vetted far more rigorouslyto creators who use agreed-upon trusted sources, check their facts, and reveal when their content is sponsored. Im aware that any credentialing system risks backlash from those suspicious of gatekeeping. But people shouldnt be disparaged for doing their own research if they arent offered the tools to tell reality from fiction. Second, evidence-based creators need support. Imagine a fractional-ownership model where like-valued creators buy into a shared professional framework. With an economy of scale, we could collectively share in things such as legal protection and sophisticated audience-development tools designed specifically for evidence-based content. We could sign sponsors who understand the unique value of trusted voices. We could offer bundled subscriptions to help audiences find more of us at once. This could create sustainable revenue streams without compromising integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finally, legacy media, please stop viewing creators as a threat. We dont have to be competitorswe can be the connective tissue between trusted journalism and the platforms where people now consume most of their information. Traditional media outlets can stay relevant in the new digital reality by partnering with us. But first, itd help if theyd allow for the possibility that whats happening isnt just the death of an old systemits the messy, complicated birth of a new one. And like a newborn, it needs more than good intentions in order to thrive. Article originally published at The Atlantic Gov. Kelly Ayotte doesnt plan to push for marijuana legalization on the state level in New Hampshire. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images) On Monday, President Donald Trump said his administration is considering reclassifying marijuana a drug thats been legalized for recreational use in a growing number of states over the past decade and a half to make federal penalties for its possession and sale less severe nationwide. While Gov. Kelly Ayotte said shed respect the federal governments decisions, she doesnt plan to push for legalization on the state level in New Hampshire. If federal law changes, I have to comply with federal law, Ayotte told reporters Wednesday. But my position has been, and continues to be, that we should not legalize marijuana in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her concerns are multifold. As a mother, as someone who worked as a prosecutor in this area, my concerns are quality of life, Ayotte said. The impact on the mental health of youth, and also they cant measure it when it comes to road safety. Unlike with alcohol, where a Breathalyzer can determine if youre under the influence at a specific moment in time, there isnt a way for police to measure the level of marijuana in a drivers system. Ayotte worries about a potential increase in car crashes, citing other states that have legalized the drug for recreational use. Indeed, a 2023 study from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health examined seven states that had legalized recreational marijuana and four saw a substantial increase in crash fatalities, with a 10% increase in motor vehicle accident deaths on average in those states. Other studies have come to similar conclusions, though some marijuana advocates, including the Marijuana Policy Project, dismiss those concerns and argue other factors, such as distracted driving, not wearing seatbelts, and speeding, are bigger contributors to crash fatality increases, citing different (but older) studies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocates of marijuana legalization argue the drug is much less dangerous than other hard drugs; that legalization keeps people seeking the drug from entering the black market; and ending criminal penalties reduces overincarceration. Marijuana is currently illegal in New Hampshire for recreational use, but is legal for medicinal purposes. Nationwide, it is legal for recreational purposes in 24 states and for medicinal purposes in 39. If the federal law changes, I also hope they address that core safety issue, because thats important to me, Ayotte said. Every parent has those moments that start out like any other dayuntil, in a heartbeat, everything shifts. In October 2022, Jessica Farwells 6-month-old son, Brody, suffered second-degree burns when a rice cooker tipped over in their Antioch, California home. She rushed him to the nearest ER, where doctors treated his pain but explained they had no burn unit. According to ABC7s 7 On Your Side, staff told Jessica no ground ambulances were available for hours. She offered to drive Brody herself, but doctors refusedhed been sedated, and the helicopter was already on its way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What followed was a short air transfer to Sacramentoabout 15 minutesfollowed by a 0.3-mile ground ambulance ride from the helipad to the hospital entrance. Weeks later, the bills arrived: nearly $90,000 for the airlift and $10,200 for the short ground trip. The hidden rule that leaves parents with huge bills Most families assume emergency transport will be covered like other ER care. But theres a big gap in federal law: Ground ambulances are not protected by the federal No Surprises Act (NSA). That means if the responding ambulance is out-of-network, you can be balance-billed for the portion your insurer doesnt pay. Several states add their own protections, but theres still no national rule for ground transport. Air ambulances are covered by the NSAs balance-billing ban , but bills can still be large and disputed while providers and insurers resolve paymentsleaving families with confusing statements and collection notices. Some states, like California, have their own protections for ground transport, but theres no national standard. Related: Dad goes viral for showing what it costs to feed a family of 8 How common is this problem? About half of emergency ground ambulance rides for people with private insurance involve an out-of-network charge , exposing patients to surprise bills. Studies of large claims sets put the share around 5055%. Costs vary wildly by state. In 2022, the allowed in-network amount per mile for ground ambulance mileage was highest in Utah, Wyoming, and California, according to FAIR Health, a major independent claims database. The rules are shiftingespecially in California Jessicas case began before Californias new protections took effect. As of January 1, 2024, AB 716 protects Californians in state-regulated plans from surprise ground ambulance bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under AB 716: The federal No Surprises Act does not prohibit balance billing for out-of-network ground ambulance services, which means you may be billed for the difference between the providers charge and your insurances payment. However, some states have passed their own laws to protect you from these surprise bills. Plans must pay the rest at locally set rates (or other specified benchmarks), a design intended to stabilize payments to public and private EMS without billing patients. The state also publishes allowable maximum rates by county, making costs more transparent. But the federal NSA still leaves ground ambulances uncovered in most states. Outside California, protections depend on where you live, and even if your state has rules, they might not apply if youre in a self-funded (ERISA) plan. Three years of callsand one breakthrough Jessica appealed to her insurer repeatedly, citing the laws she thought applied. She requested itemized bills, questioned charges, and tried to get the balances lowered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For nearly three years, the stress didnt let upuntil she contacted ABC7s 7 On Your Side. Once the station reached out to the hospital, insurer, and ambulance provider, the remaining balancesmore than $100,000were dropped. Your action plan for avoiding surprise bills You cant control which ambulance shows up, but these steps can limit damage and increase your leverage if a big bill arrives. Before an emergency Know your plans ambulance coverage. Check whether your insurance covers both ground and air ambulance and how cost sharing works. (DOLs NSA guide explains whats covered and what isnt.) Identify nearby pediatric specialty centers (e.g., burn or trauma) and your hospitals transfer protocols. In some regions, transfers almost always involve third-party transport. Understand your states protections. If youre in California (AB 716) or another state with rules, your rights are stronger; if youre self-funded (ERISA) in a state with protections, the state law might not apply. After an emergency Request an itemized bill and medical necessity documentation. Confirm dates, mileage, level of service, and any wait time or night surcharges. (Large pricing dispersion is well-documented; errors are common.) Appeal with your insurerand escalate. Reference applicable laws (NSA for air; state law like AB 716 for ground). Use your plans internal appeal, then external review where available. (CMS has consumer toolkits and a help desk.) Leverage regulators. In California, the Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) has directed plans to comply with AB 716 and pay at local rates; file a complaint if needed. Other states have insurance department complaint portals. Bring in patient advocates. The Patient Advocate Foundation offers free case management for bill disputes and appeals. (CMS also points consumers to PAF.) Use media or community allies if you hit a wall. As Farwells case shows, consumer reporters sometimes get rapid responses. (Her bills were waived after ABC7 intervened.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: 9 smart (but hidden) ways to save money as a parent Navigating emergency medical bills can feel overwhelming, especially when your childs health is on the line. Jessicas experience shows how fast an emergency can turn into a financial crisis. Staying informed, documenting everything, and knowing where to turn for help can make the difference between years of stress and a resolved bill. Source: A Back-to-School Bash was held for area students in Pittsburghs Homewood neighborhood on Wednesday. The Salvation Army and First National Bank teamed up to host the event. They gave out hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies to the students, and some new shoes. It can be hectic for a parent who has to choose between a couple meals or new shoes for their child for school. Thats the need were meeting here today, said Captain Michael Haynes, local commanding officer of The Salvation Army. This was the second year the Salvation Army hosted the Back-to-School Bash. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW WHITEHALL, Ohio (WCMH) It was a warm back-to-school welcome for teachers at Beechwood Elementary in Whitehall on Wednesday. A $5,000 donation helped stock five classrooms at the school as part of the Subaru Loves Learning initiative, which also gave the teachers supply kits. Company wants to transform Groveport farmland into 295-acre development Whitehall Superintendent Dr. Sharee Wells said events like this really show teachers how valuable their work is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So many times, our resources go directly to kids and this one is actually going to our teachers, and what that says to us, that teachers know this work that they do every day is hard work and is heart work, but investing in our teachers shows them that its important work, Wells said. The donation couldnt have come at a better time because students return to the classroom on Thursday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. The Bad Plus will return to The Dakota for their annual holiday residency originally appeared on Bring Me The News. The Bad Plus have unveiled a slate of tour dates from October through the end of the year, including a four-night residency at The Dakota. For the 2025 installment of their annual December residency, which has been running for about a quarter of a century, the group will put on eight shows over four days starting on Dec. 25 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Concerts will take place at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Christmas Day, and at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. on the following three nights. The Bad PlusPhoto by Cory Dewald - edited Long a trio, Dave King and Reid Anderson, who founded the group with Ethan Iverson in 2000, expanded the group to a quartet in 2021 following the departure pianist Orrin Evans. They now perform with guitarist Ben Monder and tenor saxophonist Chris Speed. While the lineup has shifted, the group's annual return to downtown Minneapolis remains a holiday residency sans holiday music. "We dont intone that the holiday is going on at all," King told MPR in 2024. The four-night stand will almost be the final shows of 2025 at The Dakota, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary with throwback menu items and a big block party along Nicollet Mall in September. Tickets for The Bad Plus' December residency are on sale now, with prices ranging from $40.90 to $50.90 for the early sets and $34.90 to $45.90 for the late sets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the Bad Plus' tour dates for fall 2025: Oct. 18: Traverse City, Mich. at Alluvion Oct. 19: Detroit, Mich. at Cliff Bell's Oct. 22: Madison, Wis. at Atwood Music Hall Oct. 23: Milwaukee, Wis. at Vivarium Oct. 2425: Chicago, Ill. at Constellation Oct. 26: Aurora, Ill. at The Venue Nov. 5: Portsmouth, N.H. at Jimmy's Jazz and Blues Club Nov. 6: Northampton, Mass. at De La Luz Soundstage Nov. 7: New York, N.Y. at Jazz Loft Nov. 9: Washington, D.C. at The Hamilton Live Nov. 10: Philadelphia, Pa. at Solar Myth Nov. 11: Richmond, Va. at The Broadberry Dec. 2528: Minneapolis, Minn. at The Dakota Related: The Dakota will celebrate its 40th anniversary with free festival on Nicollet Mall This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The Bakersfield Police Department is asking for the publics assistance in identifying a man and a woman involved in a residential burglary in northwest Bakersfield. The incident was reported in the 1300 block of Dunaire Drive, near Brimhall and Allen roads, on May 28, according to police. The woman allegedly involved is described as being in her 50s with a floral tattoo on her left forearm, according to police. The man allegedly involved is described as being in his 50s with brown hair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Max DiDario at 661-326-3314 or the Bakersfield Police Department at 661-327-7111. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. Barbara Harvey: erect in posture, bluntish in manner, self-deprecating, and with a ready, slightly cheeky smile, she was a kind and supportive friend to younger colleagues and generations of students Barbara Harvey, who has died aged 97, was a medieval historian who drew on the extraordinarily rich estate archives of Westminster Abbey to throw a vivid light on social and economic life in England from Edward the Confessor to the Reformation. An early work, Westminster Abbey and its Estates in the Middle Ages (1977), was praised by one reviewer as allowing readers to see the abbot and monks of Westminster Abbey as if they were characters in a Trollope novel and introduced them to such terms as champerty lease (involving a fixed rent rather than a share of the crop), selion (an open strip of land) and grout (an inferior malt or ale made from it). Barbara Harvey shared the Wolfson Prize for History for her Living and Dying in Medieval England (1993), which won coverage in the international press with her calculation, based on data from the abbeys kitchen records, that a 16th-century Benedictine monk had a food and drink allowance of 7,375 calories a day nearly three times the requirement of an active male today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lunch alone could include nearly 3lb of meat impressive testimony, she observed, to that love of meat for which Englishmen have been famous over much of their history. Meals would be washed down with a daily drink allowance of a gallon of ale, supplemented by a litre of wine on feast days, when dishes might include such delicacies as pike in cinnamon and ginger sauce, or conger eel with vinegar dressing, followed, perhaps, by Principal Pudding, a medieval version of spotted dick consisting of 3kg of currants, 270 to 300 eggs, a small mountain of breadcrumbs and at least 8kg of suet. She won coverage in the international press with her calculation that a 16th-century Benedictine monk had a food and drink allowance of 7,375 calories a day While such findings might support Protestant propagandist stereotypes, Barbara Harvey was at pains to point out that it is impossible to tell how much the monks actually consumed. They were supposed to donate some food to the poor, and the allowance dropped significantly during Advent and Lent. Moreover, with no central heating they would have needed a lot of energy to keep warm. But she estimated that the monks probably consumed more than 60 per cent of what was on offer. I would not be surprised if they were, by our standards, fat, she admitted. And they were fussy about their food, too: Nothing could save a kitchener if something was wrong with the sprats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barbara Fitzgerald Harvey was born in Teignmouth, Devon, on January 21 1928 to Richard Harvey and Anne, nee Julian, and educated at Teignmouth Grammar School and Bishop Blackall School, Exeter. She then read history at Somerville College, Oxford, where, after graduating with a First, she took a B Litt. Her volume of the Short Oxford History of the British Isles was an authoritative and readable account from the Norman Conquest of England to the Welsh revolt against Edward I in 1282 After five years as an assistant lecturer at the University of Edinburgh, then Queen Mary College, London, in 1955 she returned to Somerville, succeeding May McKisack as tutor in medieval history and becoming a fellow in 1956. Over nearly four decades she became a college institution, filling important offices, including that of vice-principal. Described by a colleague as always very erect in posture, bluntish in manner, self-deprecating, and with a ready, slightly cheeky smile, she was a kind and supportive friend to younger colleagues and to generations of students, inspiring them with her own love of medieval history. A major element of her research was the preparation of editions of medieval texts. She was co-editor with LC Hector of The Westminster Chronicle, 1381-1394 (1984), and in 2019, with Christopher Woolgar, she edited two volumes of household accounts of the manors of Westminster Abbey for the British Academys series Records of Social and Economic History. She also edited the medieval sections of the Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barbara Harvey was elected a Fellow of the British Academy in 1982 and appointed CBE in 1997. Barbara Harvey, born January 21 1928, died August 12 2025 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN) Local and state leaders gathered to break ground on Wednesday at the multi-million dollar Barrett Firearms manufacturing facility in Murfreesboro. The new 250,000 square foot campus is located along Manchester Pike, roughly a mile away from its current facility located along Interstate 24. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts Barrett rifles, the primary weapons that go to military, not only the U.S. Military but to 75 different militaries around the world, are sniper rifle systems, so extreme, long-range, accurate rifles. So, at this factory, now well produce all of the sniper rifles for the U.S. Military and for our close allies, NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Company leaders hope to retain their current tenured skilled workers, on top of adding new jobs. The Barrett family established the original Barrett Company here, and we were really wanting to keep very local, Nioa said. This new facilitys going to be three times the size of our existing floor space, and its going to allow us to invest in new technologies, more advanced weapon systems and to expand production. City, county and state leaders showed up to welcome the facility on Wednesday. We take a certain amount of pride in that fact, that Tennessee and Tennessee workers do their part to help our war fighter carry out that mission, Sen. Marsha Blackburn said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not all are happy with the development. Multiple neighbors asked county officials not to rezone the property back in April, which was originally zoned for a medium-sized neighborhood. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The noise pollution, the light pollution, it also takes away from our environment out here, our peace, our wildlife, said Kim Roland, whose property is located behind the project site. This is going to cause issues for me as to the reason why I moved out here, and I probably will leave Rutherford County. Employees expect to begin working at the site in December 2026, and the campus should be completed at the beginning of 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. A bogus airport document is being touted online as proof an ex-American diplomat was recently in Bangladesh to meet with a new political party, stoking allegations of US meddling in the South Asian nation's politics. Peter Haas was in Washington on August 5, 2025, according to an official in Bangladesh's embassy in the US capital. An image appearing to show a list of passengers who used the VIP lounge of Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport was shared on Facebook in the early hours of August 6, 2025. The purported list is annotated to highlight the date -- August 5 -- and the name of former US diplomat Peter Haas next to a departing flight he is alleged to have taken. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haas served as the US ambassador to Bangladesh between January 2022 and July 2024. "Peter Haas was in Bangladesh until he departed on Emirates' flight EK-583 today, August 5, 2025 at 19:10," reads part of the image's Bengali-language caption. "But the National Citizens Party (NCP) has reported through various national media and social media that Peter Haas is in America. Such an extreme lie that reflects the terrible state of our media." The NCP is a newly formed political party comprising many of the students who spearheaded the uprising that toppled former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's government in August 2024 (archived here and here). Screenshot of the false Facebook post captured on August 10, 2025, with a red X added by AFP The image was also shared in similar Facebook and X posts, after a local television channel claimed four NCP leaders skipped state functions marking the first anniversary of the revolution to meet Haas at a hotel in Cox's Bazar on August 5 (archived here and here). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The purported meeting and the NCP leaders' decision to skip state functions was widely criticised, with some linking the supposed gathering as an indicator of US involvement in Hasina's ouster (archived link). But Haas was in Washington at the time of the alleged meeting, according to multiple sources. Golam Mortoza, press minister at Bangladesh's embassy in Washington, refuted the rumours in an August 5 statement on Facebook (archived link). "One of the two people who could be seen taking the photo, is Peter Haas, former US ambassador to Bangladesh," Mortoza said in a Bengali-language post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He is still in the USA this morning (9am Washington time, 5 August 2025). The picture is from last Friday (August 1)." A representative for Excelerate Energy, a US firm where Haas is currently an adviser, separately told AFP he has not travelled to Bangladesh since April 2025. And NCP leader Nasiruddin Patwari told Bangladeshi newspaper The Business Standard: "The news circulating in the media about us having a meeting with Peter Haas is a rumour and baseless" (archived link). Fabricated VIP list S M Ragib Samad, executive director of the airport in Dhaka, told AFP the supposed VIP list is "completely fake" (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An analysis of the circulating image found several factual errors that indicate it has been forged. The purported list does not use the official Bengali name for the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, using the word for "private" in place of "civil" (archived link). The document also bears the signature of a "Sharier Chowdhury" who is supposedly an assistant director looking after aviation security, but no such person is listed on the airport's list of officers (archived link). According to flight tracking website FlightAware, Emirates flight 583 bound for Dubai departed Dhaka on August 5 at 10:52 am -- not, as the false posts claimed, at 7:10 pm (archived link). Screenshot comparison of the falsely shared image (left) and the flight record on FlightAware (right), with the discrepancy in the departure time highlighted by AFP There are also discrepancies with other flights listed on the document. For example, FlyDubai flight 502 is listed as having departed at 7:20 pm but in fact left Dhaka at 8:15 am (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The document also contains incorrectly spelled names, as well as incorrect job titles. Mohammad Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury, for example, is listed as a Ministry of Shipping officer even though he was transferred to another ministry on May 22, 2022 (archived link). AFP has previously debunked other misinformation about Bangladesh's political unrest. BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. (WSAV) The Beaufort County Sheriffs Office (BCSO) safely located a missing St. Helena Island man, it announced Thursday afternoon. BCSOs update that they had found the man was at 3:45 p.m., after he has been reported missing in the morning. 30-year-old Henry T. Watkins was reported missing by family members early Thursday morning, after they had not heard from him since approximately 9:00 p.m. on August 13. Danielle Cobb contributed to this story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. The Women's and Children's Alliance in Boise provides a comprehensive and secure emergency and transitional shelter program, in confidential locations with round-the-clock staff assistance, according to its website. The shelters have private rooms and common living facilities for women and children who are fleeing domestic and/or sexual assault. (Photo courtesy of the Idaho Community Foundation) Bea Black will be hearing a lot of tributes before June when she retires as CEO of the Womens and Childrens Alliance. One that is likely to stay with her comes from Jessica Flynn, a long-time friend and associate. Its truly in my head to be like Bea, says Flynn, the president-elect of the WCA board. Her ability to be in a room and figure out points of collaboration is impressive. She doesnt make it about her shes a connector. Womens and Childrens Alliance Executive Director Bea Black Flynn says her nearly decade of involvement with the WCA has been because of Beas influence. Domestic violence and sexual assault are uncomfortable topics, but they have to be spoken about. Part of Beas legacy is she has made it a topic of conversation, and thats a credit to her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another strong quality that Flynn highlights: Bea doesnt normally use the words I and me in conversations. We and us are more to her liking when talking about the success of the WCA. Every person that has come in contact with her whether its an employee, a board member or volunteer leaves better for it, because they have a greater compassion for their community and a desire to give back in any way they can, Flynn says. Under Beas leadership with WCA for 17 years, theres no telling how many lives have been drastically changed, or saved. The mission is to provide safety, healing and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault. The WCA operates Ada Countys only secure shelter and offers professional counseling, case management, court advocacy and other support services to survivors. With its 24-hour hotline, WCAs reach goes beyond Ada County. The WCA will assist victims with finding resources anywhere in the Gem State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beas accomplishments are a mile long. She was instrumental in the building of a transitional shelter (Lauras Home) in 2017, growing the WCAs endowment fund to more than $3.4 million and providing services for expanded needs during the COVID crisis. The crisis hotline, which started in 2012, fields more than 4,400 calls annually. Much will be said in the coming months about all those achievements. But there are human victories worth celebrating as well. Through her leadership, countless domestic violence survivors start new lives filled with dignity and hope, says Debra Leithauser, the board president. Its impossible to quantify her impact. Now its time for Bea to focus on other life ventures, such as spending more time with her growing number of grandchildren. Her husband is retired, and theyd like to do some traveling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Good for her. Ive been honored and humbled to do this important work for almost two decades, she says. I am so proud of the impact the team at the WCA has had on the lives of so many. Letting survivors know they are not alone has inspired me every day. And the inspiration will continue right to the end. Retirement comes in June, which gives the board time to find another CEO. Bea has established a history of success at the WCA, and shes seeing to it that the organization if anything will become better. That tells something about her character, Flynn says. I have a hunch that my friend, Jess, isnt the only one who wants to be like Bea. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) A new opportunity has opened for those passionate about fitness and helping others reach their personal goals. The Bill Bartley Branch YMCA in Wichita Falls is looking for Personal Trainers to join the YMCA family. Personal Trainers will have a real impact on clients fitness journeys by creating customized workout plans and motivating them. Personal trainers can set their schedule, get free access to the Y membership and earn $17 to $23 an hour, depending on previous experience, all while helping people reach their goals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Visit the official website for more information on the position and other events at the YMCA of Wichita 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 Texomashomepage.com. The 'Post' examines how Maj.-Gen. Uri Gordin was able to catch Hezbollah at its weakest and decapitate the growing threat on Israel's northern border. It was September 15, 2024, and theJerusalem Post was visiting IDF Northern Command Headquarters to hold interviews and off-record conversations with relatively senior brigadier general and colonel-level officers there. What I could not report at the time was that during the visit to the base, I witnessed up close thousands of officers and soldiers in unusual meetings, clearly preparing for a major operation against Hezbollah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And yet nothing leaked, and even the officers whom the Post spoke to thought it was still quite possible that the sides would reach a deal before the war would get much larger. A large part of the calm and readiness to turn the war volume immediately up or down came from their commander, outgoing Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Uri Gordin. The Post has learned that Gordin was ready to launch a game-changing IDF assault on Hezbollah in October 2023, May 2024, July 2024, and again in September 2024, when it finally played out. Lebanon's Hezbollah supporters march during a religious procession to mark Ashura in Beirut's southern suburbs, Lebanon July 17, 2024. (credit: REUTERS/AZIZ TAHER) Gordin is essentially a cool customer at all times. Even when people raise their voice to him, which would often lead other IDF officers to yell back or crack a sarcastic comment, he simply takes the energy out of any fight, staking out his position calmly as if nothing can sway him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It does not hurt that he is huge and built like a wall, which gives his calm and firm words a different resonance and power. Tearing apart Hezbollah This meant that at 3:30 p.m. on September 17, 2024, when exploding sabotaged beepers started literally tearing Hezbollah and its forces apart all over Lebanon, the Post has learned that there was no clear victory lap moment. Part of the reason was his natural unruffled state, but part of it also was that Gordin knew this was just the opening shot. He now had a race for time. Gordin needed to bomb and destroy Hezbollah's rockets and ballistic missiles before they could rain hellfire down on Tel Aviv and Haifa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even with the beeper's initial success, there were thousands or more Israeli civilian lives in the balance. But Gordin was also calm for another reason. He had carried out a very serious "dress rehearsal" and knew how that script had ended. In late July 2024, Hezbollah killed 12 Druze-Israelis and injured 42 others in a rocket attack on the northern Israeli town of Majdal Shams. Gordin and Israel responded by assassinating Hezbollah's chief military commander, Fuad Shukr. Sources close to Gordin have told the Post that an element of the success against Shukr was total surprise and a variety of military actions which misled Shukr and Hezbollah into a sense of false safety and complacency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gordin managed this despite bombastic statements by top Israeli officials about a harsh response. The Post has learned that Gordin knew that once he removed Shukr that Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah was at a loss. Nasrallah had always relied on Shukr for military strategy and tactics, and was much less sure of himself and slower to make decisions without him by his side. Gordin's causing Nasrallah to think and move slowly would prove critical. In fact, sources close to Gordin told the Post that he outfoxed Hezbollah a number of times. The key time was August 25, 2024. Hezbollah had hoped to fire off possibly up to 1,000 rockets and missiles on Israel in one day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time Gordin was done with them, it had only managed to fire off around 210 rockets, hitting a chicken coop and not much else. This was part of how Gordin felt confident that he could run the table against Hezbollah a few weeks later. On September 23, led by Gordin, the air force and IDF intelligence, the military struck 1,525 Hezbollah targets all in one day. As Gordin quietly savored that victory, he now felt that much more secure than he had when the beepers first went off six days before. He now knew he could hit any Hezbollah target he wanted virtually whenever he wanted. The minds behind the muscle And Gordin had not been a passive commander. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Credit should be given to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, then defense minister Yoav Gallant, and then IDF chief Herzi Halevi on managing a stunningly successful operation against Hezbollah. But the Post has learned that the plans for how and when to attack Hezbollah originated with Gordin and that he was not bashful about initiating new and audacious attack plans within the defense establishment. Likewise, the country and the world all learned about Israel's invasion of southern Lebanon on September 30. But on October 1, Gordin told the Post and other media that he had shepherded through over 70 covert invasion operations into Lebanon during the war prior to the actual big invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Post understands that Gordin was very aggressive in seeking and obtaining permission from his superiors to undertake so many covert invasions of Lebanon. Incidentally, this was one of the secrets to why the IDF's big invasion faced almost no Hezbollah resistance. Many of Hezbollah's forces in southern Lebanon had not just been bombed on a steady basis by Gordin and the air force over 11 months. Gordin had also had his best troops going head to head with any Hezbollah forces who had not gotten the hint to flee, including destroying many of their hideouts and weapons storage depots. There were also IDF generals who clashed with the political class over broad strategic issues or complained when the government did not seem to back them enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gordin faced much of this when Netanyahu and much of the government let him take much of the brunt of the criticism from 60,000-80,000 Israeli northern residents who had to evacuate their homes when the war started. Despite such experiences, Gordin always remained loyal and toed the line to the political echelon, and is expected to eventually get another top post in the IDF. The debate is whether his next posting will be IDF intelligence chief or deputy IDF chief. In between, for the next year or so, he is expected to undertake military academic studies, much the same way that current IDF chief Eyal Zamir did, while he was waiting for another public service posting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In two recent visits to Lebanon in which the Post accompanied Gordin, the outgoing northern command chief made it clear that his goal had been to secure security for Israel's future. He told the Post straight out that he would prefer another round of a significant war with Hezbollah if that is what it would take to get the group to disarm and to cease to be a major threat to Israel. In his outgoing speech on Wednesday night, he concluded, "Preserve security, and not the quiet," implying clearly that quiet will eventually come through security. Part of this highly aggressive attitude comes from his modest apology to the northern residents who were stuck out of their homes for over a year given that he and the military failed to confront Hezbollah as it built up its threat capacity on Israel's border. The highly successful IDF invasion of southern Lebanon led by Gordin found that had Hezbollah decided to invade Israel on October 7 at the same time as Hamas, it was so stocked with weapons that it likely could have conquered large portions of the Galilee. As Gordin passes on the baton to IDF Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo, until Wednesday the head of the IDF Home Front Command, can at least feel along with his successful elimination of most of the Assad Syrian regime's military capabilities that he has left the northern front safer than it has been in over 20 years. SmartScripts is a multimillion-dollar business and state-licensed pharmacy operating out of this location in Washington, Iowa. (Photo via Google Earth) An Iowa pharmacy that has been sued by business partners for millions of dollars is now being sanctioned by the state for distributing counterfeit Ozempic. The Iowa Board of Pharmacy is, however, allowing the company SmartScripts, which has past ties to agribusinessman and former Iowa Board of Regents President Bruce Rastetter, to keep its license. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the board, SmartScripts, a state-licensed pharmacy in Washington, Iowa, ordered the popular weight loss drug Ozempic from a wholesale supplier, Pharma Pac, in November 2023. The order was for one case of 1,260 Ozempic pens designed to deliver 4 milligrams of the drug. The board alleges that one week later, on Nov. 28, 2023, SmartScripts received 15 cases, not one case, of the drug from Pharma Pac. On Dec. 7, 2023, SmartScripts allegedly shipped the drugs to Central Pharmacy Management in Lansing, Michigan, which then distributed the product to at least two other pharmacies. The board alleges that several days later, on Dec. 18, 2023, SmartScripts owner, Todd Thompson, received a call from Pharma Pac requesting payment for all 15 cases of the product. For reasons the board has not disclosed or explained, Thompson then quarantined the Ozempic still in his possession and asked the pharmacies that had received the drug from him to refrain from selling any of the product. On Dec. 21, 2023, the board alleges, Thompson became aware the Ozempic he had purchased was counterfeit. According to the board, Thompson failed to report the matter to the Board of Pharmacy until July 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January 2025, the board charged SmartScripts with knowingly making misleading or untrue representations in the practice of pharmacy; violating a state law in the practice of pharmacy; committing willful or gross negligence; obtaining a fee by fraud or false representations; failure to maintain accurate records as required by law; and obtaining or possessing drugs without lawful authority. To settle the case, the Board of Pharmacy recently agreed to let SmartScripts keep its license, which will be placed on probationary status for five years. The company will also be required to pay a $25,000 civil penalty, according to board records. Thompson disputes boards chronology Thompson said Thursday the boards final order in the disciplinary case incorrectly describes the sequence of events in the matter. He said he first became aware his Ozempic was counterfeit when he was notified by the Food and Drug Administration a few days after he sold the product to Central Pharmacy Management. He said he immediately contacted CPM to inform his buyer of the situation, and said none of the counterfeit drugs reached any patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cooperated with the FDA and this is still an ongoing investigation, he said. I think more than 100 pharmacies nationwide got scammed on this. My violation occurred because I sold to another pharmacy, unaware that they couldnt sell in that quantity to another pharmacy. In court filings, CPM has outlined a different chain of events. CPM is suing SmartScripts, alleging the Iowa company and Thompson were aware the drugs it sold to CPM for $132,249 were counterfeit and, in the alternative, if they were unaware they must have acted negligently in selling counterfeit drugs without ensuring that they were legitimate. CPM also claims that on Dec. 7, 2023, it received its shipment from SmartScripts, and that on Dec. 27, 2023, a special agent with the FDA informed the company the drugs it had purchased from SmartScripts were counterfeit. CPM claims it then reached out to SmartScripts to report the drugs were counterfeit and had been confiscated by the FDA, at which point Thompson stopped returning CPMs calls. SmartScripts has denied any wrongdoing and a trial is currently scheduled for Sept. 16, 2025. SmartScripts sued over COVID-19 test kits Launched in 2017, SmartScripts claims to be the first telepharmacy in Iowa and delivers pharmaceuticals directly to consumers in all 50 states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company has marketed, sold, and delivered medications in part by using automated telemarketing, or robocalls, facilitated by the acquisition of telephone numbers from data brokers. In 2023, the company was the target of a class-action lawsuit for allegedly calling individuals whose names are on the national Do Not Call Registry. SmartScripts admitted using phone numbers purchased from data brokers but denied deliberately calling individuals on the Do Not Call Registry. Within a few months, the case was settled out of court. A similar lawsuit was filed and settled out of court in 2022. SmartScripts was also sued last year by a Maryland company called Tiero. That company claimed it was in the business of selling at-home COVID-19 test kits to individuals. Customers would order the kits on Tieros website and provide Tiero with their insurance information. Tiero would then purchase the kits from a third party and arrange to have them shipped to the customer. Because insurers required billing for the kits to be submitted though a licensed pharmacy, Tiero hired SmartScripts to submit those bills to the customers insurance companies, with the understanding that SmartScripts, in return for a fee of $5 to $10 per kit, would route the insurance money to Tiero. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead of forwarding the funds as required, SmartScripts improperly retained the funds and wrongfully used them to fund SmartScripts business, the lawsuit alleged. As part of this scheme, SmartScripts has misappropriated almost $3 million that is rightfully due to Tiero. Court records show that in July 2024, SmartScripts agreed to a consent judgment requiring it to pay Tiero $3,052,575 to avoid the time and cost of litigation without admitting to any allegations. Last year, SmartScripts was sued in Missouri state court by KB Evans Drugs. SmartScripts allegedly failed to respond to the lawsuit, resulting in a judgment against the company in the amount of $68,154. SmartScripts has also been sued in Ohio state court by Capital Wholesale Drug Company. As with the Missouri case, SmartScripts allegedly failed to respond to the Ohio lawsuit, resulting in a judgment against the company in the amount of $65,514. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, SmartScripts was sued in federal court by a Texas-based supplier, the McKesson Corporation, for $2.1 million in allegedly unpaid bills. That lawsuit named the three principal members of SmartScripts as Thompson, Samuel Zoske of Solon and Rastetter. Thompson said Thursday that Rastetter was an investor in the company many years ago and has not been involved in the business since that time. The McKesson lawsuit was settled out of court in June 2025. A fan-favorite Downtown wintertime activity is moving. On Aug. 14, the UC Health Ice Rink announced its move via a Facebook post from Fountain Square to the new Elm Street Plaza, located adjacent to the convention center. Slated to open in mid-November, the new location will feature more skating space for patrons, an upgraded Western Governors University warming tent, along with cozy igloos, pergolas and fire pits for guests to enjoy, according to a news release from 3CDC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rink and surrounding areas will be available for rentals for birthday parties, events and more. Further details on daily events, pricing and other enhancements will be coming soon, the post says. While the rink itself will be moving, Fountain Square will continue to host its previous wintertime activities. This year, the space will welcome a new oversized tent called "Winterhaus" from mid-November through the end of February. The Fountain Square activities that are staying include: The Duke Energy Holiday Tree. Duke Energys Light Up the Square. YMCA of Greater Cincinnati's Downtown Dazzle. Enhanced holiday decor & lighting. Ability to rent space for your events. Daily programming, including ticketed and free events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To connect these festive locations, Fifth Street from Elm to Vine Streets will be decorated and lit up, creating a corridor between Elm Street Plaza and Fountain Square, according to the news release. New restaurants like Salazar and a soon-to-be-named bar will also be opening this winter in the Fountain Square area. This winter, were taking the magic of the holidays to a new level by expanding our celebrations across the Fountain District. The move of the UC Health Ice Rink presented by Fifth Third Bank to Elm Street Plaza allows us to create a bigger, better rink, truly enhancing the skating experience for our guests. Christy Samad, executive vice president of Civic & Commercial Space Activation at 3CDC, said in the release. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Downtown Cincinnati ice rink at Fountain Square moving to new location Residents of Staten Island, New York who were looking forward to getting their hands on a Triple Sonic Smasher and a side of Chilli Cheese Tots this month were met with disappointment. It turns out that their beloved Sonic Drive-In had seemingly closed without warning. SILive.com reports that the Sonic Drive-In, which is located at 148 Page Avenue in Staten Island's South Shore neighborhood, is empty and and brown paper covers the windows. Want trending news, op-eds, and top stories straight to your inbox? Sign up for our Daily newsletter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The now-shuttered Sonic was once a part of fast food history. It served as the first Sonic Drive-In to open its doors in Staten Island. Related: This Beloved Deli Just Secured the Title of Top Sandwich Shop A Facebook post shared by Staten Island Food provides some insight into why the location may have closed its doors. One person pointed out that there was just too much competition for Sonic. "Trying to hock hot dogs to Staten Islanders when we had and lost Nathans locations. Was not wowing anyone. And we have a ton of good burger places. Didnt need another bad one," they wrote. Another person stressed how much of a blow the closure is for those who enjoy the restaurant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Sucks for those who like Sonic. Here come the people who love to give their unwanted opinions of how the place is gross, fast food is gross and they are happy its gone. Also the heath nuts who shame people who shame those who eat here," the commenter shared. Fortunately, there is some good news for Garlic Butter Bacon Cheeseburger lovers. SILive.com did confirm that a person linked with the Sonic Drive-In in Staten Island said the closure is temporary. The restaurant is expected to reopen, but an opening date has yet to be announced. Related: Beloved Steakhouse Closing After 15 Years: 'Stay Tuned for Whats Next' Beloved Drive-In Restaurant Abruptly Closes Without Warning Leaving Fans Stunned first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025 Matthew Yeomans and Stacey Tourout, pictured above, died this month in an off-roading accident; (photo/Toyota World Runners) The original version of this article was published on The Inertia. A couple who ran a popular off-roading YouTube channel are dead after they crashed in British Columbias Purcell Mountains this month. Matthew Yeomans and Stacey Tourout were found by search crews on August 7, and likely died in an off-roading accident. The couples YouTube channel, Toyota World Runners, has 206,000 subscribers. They filmed and shared overland adventures all over the world in an overlanding rig they built themselves, traveling from British Columbia to Brazil via the Pan-American Highway, a network of roads stretching from Alaska to Argentina. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Please keep us and them in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this devastating end to an amazing love story, Colleen Tourout, Staceys mother, wrote on social media. They are together forever as we knew they would always be. Few Details on Accident According to the CBC, the couples vehicle was found August 7 by Kaslo Search and Rescue, which works out of a tiny town near Nelson, British Columbia. The vehicle was nearly 700 feet down a steep slope. Yeomans was deceased when the search crews found him. Tuorout was alive when search crews reached her, but she died after a helicopter airlifted her from the scene. The exact cause of the accident remains unclear, according to Mark Jennings-Bates, a manager with Kaslo SAR. However, he suspects the cause was likely a loss of control on rough terrain. He also told the CBC that SAR teams have responded to multiple calls in the area, which he described as treacherous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was very clear that there had been a vehicle rollover, said Jennings-Bates. There was an ejection, and that person had no vital signs. Community Reels From Tragic News The news has hit the off-roading community hard, and condolences are flooding in. Matt and Stacy were fun loving adventure seekers with bright futures, wrote Dirt Lifestyle, another off-roading YouTube channel, in the description for a memorial video you can see below. Lets celebrate their lives and remember their legacy the way they would have wanted. I was lucky to have known such great people! The Story Till Now, another YouTube channel dedicated to off-roading, also lamented the couples tragic death. The channels creator, Shaun, said he discussed a joint project with Yeomans the day before the couple died. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We joked about how we would have finally met up the next day if not for my Jeep breaking down, but talked about getting some firm plans on the books for a trip next month, Shaun wrote on Facebook. They tragically passed away that very next day in an accident, and Im just devastated over it. They were so young and full of life, so talented, and this is a huge loss for our off-road community, their friends and family, and the world. BOONE COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO) A Belvidere man has been found guilty of driving drunk and killing a 16-year-old Harlem student. A Boone County jury found Justin Lee, 24, guilty of two counts of aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol, causing death for an August 2024 crash. On August 3rd, around 10:38 p.m., deputies and the Boone County District Fire responded to an accident on Poplar Grove Road. The investigation showed that Lees Ford F350 left the roadway and overturned several times, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harlem High School student Jazlyn Davidson, 16, was ejected from the vehicle and transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. She later succumbed to her injuries. According to the Boone County States Attorneys Office, In cases where a defendant is under the influence and a person is killed, the States Attorneys Office prefers the charge of Aggravated Driving Under the Influence Causing Death rather than Reckless Homicide. A defendant convicted of Reckless Homicide, a Class 3 felony, is eligible for probation, and, if sentenced to the Illinois Department of Corrections, the sentencing range is only 2 to 5 years, and the sentence is served at 50%. Lee faces up to 14 years in prison at his sentencing, which is scheduled for October 17th. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) Two men were arrested by the New Bern Police Department for illegal drug activity after receiving numerous citizen complaints. According to a press release, a coordinated operation was carried out on August 13 with other law enforcement agencies, resulting in the execution of search warrants at two locations in New Bern. The operation resulted in two arrests. Tyric McCarter, 27, of New Bern Trafficking opium/heroin by manufacturing Trafficking opium/heroin by possession Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCarter was also served with an outstanding warrant for his arrest issued by Pamlico County. He was subsequently booked into the Craven County Jail under a secured bond totaling $4,500,00.00. Najier Hardesty, 25, of New Bern Trafficking opium/heroin by manufacturing Trafficking opium/heroin by possession Hardesty was additionally charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon with Intent to Kill in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on July 26th in New Bern. He was booked into the Craven County jail under a secured bond of $2,500,000.00. FULL PRESS 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. We now have a full look at the U.S. militarys USX-1 Defiant medium-sized drone ship as it gets closer to heading off on a months-long open-water demonstration cruise. Defiant was designed from the outset to operate without any humans ever onboard, as well as for efficient mass production, and is set to help lay the groundwork for the U.S. Navys vision of a future family of uncrewed surface vessels (USV). The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) recently released new videos and pictures of Defiant from ongoing initial in-water testing. The ship was developed and built specifically for DARPAs No Manning Required Ship (NOMARS) program. It was formally christened at a ceremony in Everett, Washington, where it is currently homeported, on August 11. Serco Inc. is the primary contractor for the USV. The 180-foot (55-meter) long, 240-metric-ton displacement Defiant has been mostly under wraps since it was launched earlier this year, something TWZ was first to confirm. What we can see now of the uncrewed ship, especially its central mast adorned with various commercial navigation radars and other antennas, as well as its largely flat and open deck, aligns well with previously shown models and renderings of the design. The vessels open deck architecture is intended to allow for the relatively rapid loading and unloading of containerized and otherwise modular payloads, something we will come back to later on. One of the new views of Defiant. DARPA capture A previously released rendering of the Defiant design. DARPA A model of the Defiant that manufacturer Serco has shown in the past. Joseph Trevithick Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We also now see that there is an angled structure on top of the bow, which appears to be designed in part to help shield an access point to spaces below deck. It might also help break waves in heavier sea states. Defiant is designed to be able to sail safely in waters where waves are cresting at up to 13 feet, and at least survive conditions where waves might get up to 30 feet tall. The bow structure viewed from different angles. DARPA captures As noted, Defiant was built to operate without human personnel onboard, even just to monitor systems or provide an extra margin of safety, and so it does not have any accommodations for them. However, Defiant is seen in the recent DARPA imagery with a tent set up at the stern, which would provide some basic shelter for individuals working onboard as part of the initial testing. A close-up of the tent seen on Defiants stern. DARPA capture Defiant is a tough little ship and defies the idea that we cannot make a ship that can operate in the challenging environment of the open ocean without people to operate her, Greg Avicola, the NOMARS program manager, said during the recent christening ceremony, according to a press release. While relatively small, Defiant is designed for extended voyages in the open ocean, can handle operations in sea state 5 with no degradation, and survive much higher seas, continuing operations once the storm passes. Shes no wider than she must be to fit the largest piece of hardware, and we have no human passageways to worry about. A graphic offering various details about the Defiant. DARPA By removing the human element from all ship design considerations, the program intends to demonstrate significant advantages, to include: Size, cost, at-sea reliability, greater hydrodynamic efficiency, survivability to sea-state, and survivability to adversary actions through stealth considerations and tampering resistance, according to DARPA. With scaled production, NOMARS has the potential to efficiently and cost-effectively deliver a distributed USV fleet. DARPA Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the challenges that we were really trying to tackle in NOMARS is, how do we take on building a ship that can go to sea for a long period of time with autonomy? Theres really two pieces of an autonomy problem. Theres the actual autonomy, but then theres the platform the autonomy is operating on, Avicola, the program manager, also said in a recent official video about the program, seen below. A lot of times, the requirements that were designed into it [a platform] for humans, make it sub-optimal for the autonomy problem. What can you do with a ship design where you dont have the constraints of the people? The other side of the coin, though, is, how do you make it reliable? Its hard enough if there are people there to fix it. Really, the only way you can prove that is by giving it a hard test, giving it a test that requires resilience and endurance, he continued. The at-sea demonstration that Defiant will undertake is designed for a long period of time in a real-world environment, in real sea states, proving that the ship can operate untouched for a very long period of time. After the demonstration, the plan is for DARPA to turn Defiant over to the U.S. Navy. The service, in turn, expects to incorporate it into an experimental fleet it is already using to lay the foundation of its future uncrewed surface fleets. Just earlier this year, the Navy rolled out a new USV vision, now dubbed the Modular Surface Attack Craft (MASC) program. Defiant is very well suited to being a building block for MASC, which is focused heavily on modular, containerized payloads rather than specific hull designs. The Navy currently envisions a family of at least three MASC designs all capable of being readily configured for a wide range of mission sets, which could include intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as launching long-range kinetic strikes and electronic warfare attacks. You can learn more about what is known about MASC here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the Navy, Defiant, or a further evolution of the design, something that manufacturer Serco has already been working on, could be even more attractive because of what it offers when it comes to cost and producibility. The service has been struggling with major delays and cost growth on many of its traditional shipbuilding programs in recent years. At the same time, China, Americas chief global competitor, has taken a massive lead in building naval vessels and expanding the shipyard capacity needed to sustain that production tempo. The U.S. government has been taking steps to try to reverse this trend, including exploring leveraging foreign shipyards. However, USVs that could operate alongside screwed warships and/or independent groups are also seen as a key way to help bolster Navy surface fleets and do so cost-effectively. A model of an enlarged derivative of the Defiant design, called Dauntless, that Serco has been working on. It is shown here equipped with four missile launchers. Howard Altman We have delivered a vessel in a reasonable time frame, at a reasonable cost, which is somewhat rare in todays industry. We did that by being the designer and the prime [contractor] of the vessel, and procuring almost all the material from the industrial base, and integrating it ourselves, Ryan Maatta, marine engineering manager at Serco, told TWZ earlier this year. Rather than it being a shipyard-led prime, it was the government and their system integrator working together to procure all the materials and to pivot when things got tough and get the ship delivered, which is more how we used to do ships in the [19]80s than how we do ships nowadays. I say 14 months with 14 men welded our hull together. The hull is allowed to be very simplistic thanks to the fact that theres no personnel on board. So theres no heads [toilets], theres no galleys, theres no passageways, theres very few penetrations through the bulkheads. So its very modular in its construction, and it allows for a very quick by-hand construction, he continued. So tier three shipyards [that could produce Defiant], theres more than 35 tier three shipyards in the United States. The size engine were using are produced by the tens of thousands across three manufacturers. DARPA How Defiant performs on the upcoming open-ocean cruise remains to be seen, but lessons learned from the demonstration could have important impacts on the Navys broader USV plans. In the meantime, Defiant now emerged fully out into the open as DARPA works toward the NOMARS programs capstone event. Contact the author: joe@twz.com The fight over Texas Republicans attempt to grabble five new GOP congressional seats out of the states congressional map is the most important story in the country right now. Amid everything elsethe concentration camp operating within our borders, the snatch-and-grab arrests by plainclothes agents, the creeping military takeover of the District of Columbia, the open bribery flowing through the White Housewhats happening in Texas is the most pivotal moment of Trumps second presidency. Why? Because this is the story of how and where the power consolidates. The redistricting battle in Texas is not just about maps. Its about whether there will be any free and fair elections left to fight over in 2028. And former Representative Beto ORourke is one of the few people standing between Trump and unchecked authoritarian control of the House. I spoke to him as he prepared for a rally he may be legally barred from attending. He is also in court facing criminal contempt charges brought by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Texas Republicans are trying to bankrupt ORourke, silence everyone opposed to the move, and dissolve the voter registration organization he runs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes still fighting. And he wants you to join him. (The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.) Texas Governor Greg Abbott says you should be arrested. Whats going on? Well, Ken Paxton is saying that. Greg maybe sees it that way too. But yeahKen Paxton filed with the court in Tarrant County to encourage them to find me in criminal contempt. I think that hearing is later this month. Like Joseph Goebbels said, you accuse your enemy of the thing youre guilty of. And it works pretty effectively when you control all the levers of state power in Texas: the governors mansion, the attorney generals office, the state legislature, and the court were in front of right nowwhich is an Abbott-appointed judge. So well see what happens. But theyre trying to shut us down. Its worth pointing out that Ken Paxton is one of the most corrupt state officials weve had in Texas for a long time. He was impeached for bribery. Like, literally, for the alleged crime of bribery. He was impeached by a majority of the state Houseincluding, obviously, many Republican members of his own party. As a Texan, Ive been feeling completely discouraged. It feels like a losing battle. Is there a path forward? Is there a way this doesnt end with a permanent Republican majority in the House? Yeah, yeah. I meanthe odds arent great. I dont know how long these Democrats are gonna hold out. You probably saw the same reporting I didI havent had this confirmed by anybodybut theyre thinking about coming back for this next special session. I really hope that they do not. Given the stakesand youve accurately described themI think everyone has to do everything they possibly can. For them, that means holding out as long as they can, or not coming back after 13 or 14 days or whatever itll be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres the power that [California Governor] Gavin Newsom hasas you know, on that one, hes moving forward. They have a very small window within which to act, and hes taking maximum advantage of it to redraw Californias congressional districts to maximize Democratic advantage. Potentially every single district in the state of California. Theres potential in Maryland, in Illinois, in New Jersey, in New York, and in other states as well. I think on every single front, we have to be fighting with everything that we have. Becausejust to expand on the point you madeif we fail to stop this steal in Texas, if we fail to win a majority in the House of Representatives in 2026, the consolidation of authoritarian power in the hands of Trump will be close to unstoppable. Maybe completely unstoppable. And Ill never stop fighting, but that fight becomes just extraordinarily challenging after 26 if we fail to win a majority. What happens is, you knowhe is more free to send more plainclothes federal agents, without badges or warrants, to sweep people. Could be immigrants. Could be citizens. Really could be anybody. Because theyve suspended due process and other constitutional protections. That continuesand grows larger. You have his political opponents targeted for retribution, or vengeance, or even political violence. And then I think it is far more likely that a Republican-majority Congress rolls out the red carpet for a third Trump term. Thats our future if we do not stand and fight right now. And it has to be everyone, everywhere who has any opportunity to mount any kind of fight. They gotta do it. And they gotta do it right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Butbecause youre looking for some hope and optimismlet me share this: Theyre doing all of this because they are in full panic. Should they lose the House, there will be accountability for the crimes and corruption. There will be a check on this lawlessness. There will be the prospect of free and fair elections in 2028. And they fear all of those things. You saw the quorum break in 2021none of this shit happened then. So why is it happening now? Its because they understand the stakes as clearly as I do. And theyre going to fight tooth and nail to hold onto this tiny, narrow margin theyve got in the Housebecause if they lose it, there are going to be real consequences for everything theyve done. And there will be a check on their ability to continue to run roughshod over the country, the Constitution, and all of us. What Im worried aboutas someone whos voted for Democrats my whole lifeis that Democrats have been unwilling to fight. I dont want to say fight dirty and go back to the high road. And I dont even want to call it the high road. Oh my Godno, youre exactly right. You diagnosed it. Its the weak road. I mean, Merrick Garland had four yearshad all the evidence necessaryto ensure that the American public and the U.S. justice system had everything it needed to make a decision on Donald Trumps complicity and culpability in an attempt to overthrow a freely, fairly, and lawfully decided election in 2020. [Trumps] incitement of violencethe insurrection attemptremains the crime of the century. One of the greatest crimes in American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And with all the power of the Justice Departmentat a time when, by the way, Democrats controlled not just the White House but the House and the Senatethere was literally nothing to show for it. The other side only cares about being in power. They could give a shit about what is right, what is legal, what is ethical, what is moral. They only care about being in power. And the results speak for themselves. Trump has confidently disregarded federal court rulings, defied a coequal branch of government, dismantled congressionally chartered and mandated agencies and departmentsanother branch of government. Hes openly colluded with corrupt public officials like Eric Adamsa public quid pro quo everyone could see in broad daylight. That is power being used for evil ends. But its also a lesson for Democrats about how power can be used. One could imagine what it would look like if we used that power for good. We didnt push as hard as we could. We didnt let them catch us trying. We didnt go to the courts and let them slap us on the wrist. We didnt test the absolute limits of presidential and congressional power. We held back. We could have passed voting rightswhich would have prevented the fucking craziness were seeing in Texas right now: gerrymandering five districts. The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Actwhich we had the power to pass in 2021wouldve stopped that. We couldve passed immigration reformwhich wouldve prevented Trump from using that issue to beat us over the head throughout the 2024 campaign. So youre absolutely right. One: We have to stop this. Two: We have to be ruthless about winning power in 2026 and 2028. And threeas Mandela Barnes out of Wisconsin says: Once we win, we have to drive the car like we stole it. We have to run the tables on these guys. If we dont, well never hold power again. And its questionable whether we can even gain it in the first place, now that we squandered it when we last had it. You got the most votes of any Democrat ever running for statewide office in Texasand you did it running as an unapologetic progressive. Right now, the Democrat with the highest favorability rating in the country is Bernie Sanders. I know you had Republicans and independents cross the aisle to vote for you. So what do you say to Democrats who are scared to run as full-throated progressives? I think people want to see candidates fight for them. They want to see people in public office fight for them. Theres a time and place for consensus, compromise, and collaboration. This is not one of those times. We are up against fascists. We are up against authoritarians. We are up against oligarchs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And to your excellent point, this is not a question of the ideological spectrum. I dont think people are making decisions based on your policy platform, or what form of universal health care you support. Its: Will you stand and fight? Or will you submit? Its an especially stark choice right now because you see the most powerful people in this country bending. Harvard is going to concede $500 million to the Trump administrationmaybe as soon as today. Columbia, $200 million. Brown, $50 million. Theyre going to come after UCLA for even more. So these centers of independent academic and intellectual leadership are bending the knee. The largest law firms in the country are bending the knee. Jeff Bezos. Mark Zuckerberg. Tim Cookliterally genuflecting and giving the fucking president a 24-karat gold-plated iPhone. This is something youd expect to see from some subservient industrialist in the 1930s, presenting a gift to Mussolini or Hitlernot in the United States of America in the year of our Lord 2025. Youve got Chuck Schumer bending the knee. We were in the middle of the federal funding fight earlier this year, and every single House memberexcept maybe onestood strong. Most of the Senate Democrats were standing strong. It was a moment we needed to see a fight. Instead, he gave Trump and Elon Musk everything they wanted. Thats the context in which we answer your question. We will be judgedby our fellow Americans in 2026 and 2028, and by future generationsnot by what we said we believed but by what we did or failed to do in this moment of truth. What I try to remind people is that weve faced enormous odds before. We threw off the mightiest empire on the planet to secure our independence and ensure we wouldnt be ruled by kings. We defeated the Confederacyat the cost of 300,000 Union livesto make sure one man could never own another. We defeated the divisions of the Third Reich, at extraordinary cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And how many Americans were imprisoned, beaten, or killed to win full civil and political rightsthe Civil Rights Act of 64, the Voting Rights Act of 65? All of that is present in this moment. All of that sacrifice, that struggle, that serviceweve inherited it. And its come down to this generation. We will either continue that noble tradition and preserve this country, or well be the generation that loses what Lincoln called the last best hope of earth. Thats what animates me. Thats what animates everyone I know whos in this fight right now. Weve got to ring the alarm. Weve got to make sure this moment doesnt pass without bringing the full fight to it. Thats what so many of us are trying to do right now. Last week, during the state Senate redistricting hearing, I heard someone say, Dont force us into taking up arms. How much do you think about that possibility? Everything theyre doing right nowthe MAGA movement, Trump, Paxtonits all an effort to intimidate. And if you wont willingly bend your knee, theyre gonna try to bend it for you. This political violence is not theoretical. Its not something on the horizon. We are in the midst of it right now. We have to use our imaginationbecause theyre using theirs. And Trumps been very open about it. He said 2024 will be the last election anyone needs to vote in. He said, on an open mic, Im gonna come for the homegrown next. So, yesto answer your questionyes, we absolutely have to be concerned about this. Think about the generation from Lexington and Concord. The courthouse at Appomattox. Bloody Sunday at Selma. The beaches at Normandy. None of that was easy. We should not sell one another on the idea that this will be convenientor that you can do this from the comfort of your home. That you just send $25 to a cause, or you tweet the right thing, or you have that one open, honest conversation with your family member, and then youre done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of those things are probably necessarybut if you want to get into the fight right now, its not going to be easy. And it is going to come with risk, either to your freedom or your safety. We should be honest with one another about that. Those are the terms of this fight. I would urge everyone on our side to maintain nonviolence as a virtueto continue to do this peacefully and democraticallybut to also be aware that the other side, as they always have, includes the armed and elected dogs of the Jim Crow South. Thats the kind of violence and intimidation we are up against now. I really appreciate everything you saidespecially the emphasis on staying nonviolent even in the face of violence. But Ill tell you: I own a gun. There was a period where I asked myself, Do I really need to have this around? And nowespecially living in TexasI still dont imagine ever using it, but it no longer feels ridiculous to have it. Yeah. No, I get it. I wouldnt judge anyone for how theyre trying to prepare for what is increasingly a lawless, unconstitutional administration in Washington, D.C. The thug that the president isand the lawlessness hes inspiredis leading people to threaten and, in some cases, carry out violence against their political opponents. OKbut I want to get one last thing from you: a quick plug for this weekend. Youve got a big rally in Texas. I was at the No Kings rally, but Im worried the turnout this weekend wont be the same. And I honestly think this rally is even more important. I know there are a thousand other big stories right now, but thisthis is the story. No, youre right. You and I are on the same page. This is it. This is for all the marbles. We need to show up this Saturday at 11 a.m. on the statehouse stepsespecially because they are trying to stop us from being able to do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Literally, I am in Tarrant County court being sued by Ken Paxton. Hes trying to stop me from speaking at rallies like this. He tried to stop me from speaking in Fort Worth last Saturday. Hes literally trying to shut me up. Hes trying to shut all of us up. Theyre trying to put state legislators behind bars. Theyre trying to bankrupt organizations that are registering people to vote. Theyre trying to make us feel hopeless. They want us to believe this is inevitablethat as their power grows, and as they defy every protection and safeguard in the Constitution, resistance is futile. They want us to believe the fight is already lost. And I just want to tell everyone this: Theyre doing all of this because they are panicked. They are scared. They understand that if we refuse to be cowedif, instead of bending the knee, we stand and fightand if we succeed in stopping this theft of five congressional seats, if we win a majority in the House, then their stranglehold on power in America will be broken. And theres nothing they fear more than thatbecause they understand what the consequences would be. So showing up on Saturday is a profoundly powerful act of defiance, of strength, of solidarity. And now, more than everas they try everything they can to silence us and stop us before the fight even beginsnow is the time to stand and be counted. Theres no better place to do that than at the epicenter of this fight: Austin, Texas, this Saturday, on the steps of the Capitol. A Big Bear man was arrested last week for allegedly operating an illegal psychedelic mushroom business out of a church in Big Bear Lake, according to authorities. On Saturday, deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in Big Bear executed a search warrant at Jah Healing Cannabis Church, located in the 40700 block of Village Drive, in response to complaints from citizens, according to a Sheriff's Department news release. As deputies executed the warrant, they found about 3 ounces of psychedelic mushrooms on 48-year-old Christopher Tindall, who was described in the release as the owner of the "mushroom sales shop." They arrested Tindall on suspicion of illegal sales of psilocybin mushrooms, a felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tindall was booked into Big Bear jail and released on bond, according to authorities. He was scheduled to be arraigned at the San Bernardino County Superior Court Tuesday at 8 a.m. In 2022, the church, which considers cannabis its sacrament, was permanently shut down by San Bernardino County authorities due to claims that the church functions as an illegal dispensary. The church has vowed to continue the legal fight in state Supreme Court. 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. TOPEKA (KSNT) The City of Topeka held a public meeting on Wednesday to discuss an upcoming reconstruction project for Huntoon Street. The project, managed by construction company Bartlett and West, will cost an estimated $14 million and is set to begin in March 2027 and finish in November 2029. The project aims to improve infrastructure along Huntoon Street by introducing a single lane with a shared-use path and on-street parking. The project is expected to mirror the work previously done on 12th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You do not need two driving lanes on Huntoon, but you do need something there, Project Manager Jeff Lolley said. A bike lane is another facility that we also can offer for folks that have a lot of interest in that throughout town. The Huntoon Street project will be executed in three phases, starting at Harrison Street and moving east to west and ending at Gage Street. Topeka Fire Department battling house fire We are going to do the heavy construction in three segments to try to get each segment done so we dont have residents and other people that live along those areas under construction, inconvenienced, any longer than they have to be, Topeka Public Works Director Steve Groen said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. (The Center Square) Georgia's gubernatorial race is nearly a year away but candidates are racking up endorsements early. President Donald Trump made it clear who he is supporting in the race with an endorsement of Lt. Gov. Burt Jones this week. Trump used all caps at various points in his social media post to say in part Burt was among the first in the Georgia Legislature to endorse the Floridian for president. He also said, "Burt was strongly committed to my campaign in 2016, 2020, and 2024, and worked tirelessly to help us win. Burt Jones for governor has my complete and total endorsement he will never let you down!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones and Attorney General Chris Carr are the two best known candidates in the primary. Chris Carr is the only conservative Republican who can win the primary and the general election," said a spokesman for Carr's campaign in an email to The Center Square. "The attorney general will continue to work with President Trump now and as governor on the issues that matter to hardworking Georgians. Trump's endorsement is going to help Jones, said Dr. Zachary F. Peskowitz, a political science professor with Emory University, in an interview with The Center Square. "Endorsements are one of the key ways in which candidates can differentiate themselves in a primary," Peskowitz said. "But it's not the end of the campaign, it's not necessary to win." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peskowitz referred to the campaigns of Gov. Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger, who both won without Trump's backing. While the Republican primary appears to be a two-person race at this point, seven others have filed with the Georgia Campaign Finance System as GOP candidates. They are Ben Anderson, Gregg Rodney Kirkpatrick, Billy Gene Minter II, Leland J. Olinger II, Walter Paschal Reeves II, Takosha Mishel Swan and Kenneth Yasger. Swan has said in a social media post she is seeking the lieutenant governor's post. Scotty Ellison is running as an independent. Campaigns have changed over the years, giving lesser-known statewide candidates a better chance in statewide races, Peskowitz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Party leaders are just much less important than they used to be and the politics of running a campaign and contesting a primary are much more decentralized than they were 10 to 20 years ago," Peskowitz said. "Now you can raise money through text messages and online advertisements direct to voters. It's really opened up a lot of opportunities for maybe less lower profile candidates to put their hat in the ring in a big race like this." The Democratic contest has two high-profile Georgians and two state legislators among the long list of candidates. Former Georgia Labor Commissioner Michael Thurmond, who also served two terms as DeKalb County CEO, entered the race for the Democratic nod last week. He joins former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, state Sen. Jason Esteves and state Rep. Derrick Jackson. Esteves has garnered endorsements from 10 of his Senate colleagues, 13 members of the Georgia House of Representatives and four current members of the Atlanta City Council, among others, according to his campaign's Facebook page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bottoms said on social media page she is backed by the American Federation of Government Employees. Other endorsements include state Sen. Nadine Thomas, former DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis, and Decatur School Board Member Jana JohnsonDavis. Other Democratic candidates are Olu Brown, Benjamin Turner and Ocean Zotique. U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath is also on the list but she said previously she is not running. The date for the Georgia primary has not been set. The general election is Nov. 3, 2026. The nations largest home and auto insurance companies say we can trust them, but lately theyre behaving far more like villains than heroes. As the climate crisis intensifies, big insurance companies are protecting their bottom line instead of policyholders. Theyre canceling policies, raising rates, and refusing to cover claims after major disasters all while making huge profits from the causes of climate chaos. Climate disaster damage in the United States has steadily increased, with costs totaling $187 billion in 2024. Yet instead of covering their customers, big insurance is abandoning them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Farm and Allstate have stopped accepting applications for home insurance in California, while Farmers pulled out of Florida and AIG curtailed sales in 200 zip codes across the country. All told, insurers have dropped over 1.9 million home insurance policies nationwide since 2018, a congressional investigation found. Elsewhere, big insurance is raising rates dramatically. Home insurance premiums have risen by over 40 percent across the United States over the past six years, according to Lending Tree. This year alone, State Farm raised rates 17 percent in California and 27 percent in Illinois. Even as they raise rates, the same companies are facing mounting complaints for not paying claims months after a major disaster when theyre needed the most. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Farm is under investigation in California after hundreds of Eaton Fire survivors complained about delay and denial. Trying to get them to answer our inquiries and reimburse for alternative living expenses is taking all my time and energy, said one survivor who lost their home in January. It should never be this difficult. In fact, major insurers are fueling the very climate crisis thats destroying peoples homes. Florida's insurance market has undergone big changes since Wilma became the last hurricane to make landfall in the state the state in 2005. Large insurance companies are also large institutional investors, investing their profits in stocks and bonds including in the fossil fuel industry. Last year, the property insurance industry made $25.4 billion from underwriting, but $164.3 billion over six times as much from investments and capital gains, an analysis from Revolving Door Project found. Even as the climate crisis renders much of the country uninsurable, the property insurance industry had $582 billion invested in fossil fuel companies driving the climate crisis in 2019, the most recent year for which aggregate data is available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of May 2024, State Farm had $20.6 billion invested in fossil fuels, according to the German nonprofit Urgewald. USAA, AIG, Nationwide, Allstate, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, and The Hartford have all sunk billions into fossil fuels. By far the largest investor is Berkshire Hathaway, parent of Geico and General, with over $95 billion in fossil fuels its actually the top investor in Chevron. Homes were washed off their foundations from the storm surge leveled by Hurricane Helene on September 28, 2024 in Cedar Key, Florida. The resulting profits ballooned insurance executive compensation packages by 30 percent last year. Forty-two top executives at nine major insurance companies took home a total of $310 million, with Allstate CEO Thomas Wilson alone making $26.1 million. By canceling policies, raising rates, not paying claims, and investing in climate chaos, big home and auto insurance companies have revealed themselves to be anything but heroic. Fortunately, theyve never been our only option. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local and regional insurance companies may not be household names, but theyre the real deal. They understand the needs of the people they insure and are often part of the communities they serve. These companies are just as financially sound as the big guys. Many have been serving their communities for decades. Best of all, switching to a local or regional insurance company could save you money, since they dont have multimillion-dollar advertising budgets. Dont know where to start? Green America, my organization, offers a Climate Smart Insurance Directory. It lists local and regional insurance companies in every state that invest little to nothing in the fossil fuel industry and have a rating of A- or above from AM Best. Find it at GreenAmerica.org. We deserve better than villains investing in the same dangers they say theyll protect us from. Buying local home and auto insurance may just help you find the real hometown hero you need. Cathy Cowan Becker Cathy Cowan Becker is the Responsible Finance Campaigns Director at Green America. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org. Join the Conversation: The Palm Beach Post is committed to publishing a diversity of opinions. Email us at letters@pbpost.com. Letters are subject to editing, must not exceed 200 words and must include your name, address and a daytime phone number to confirm the letter is for publication. We only publish names and cities with the letters. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Big insurers making homeowners pay costs for climate change | Opinion A phone with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is pictured. A new state report indicates Oregon mental health employers are training more in suicide prevention, rates of suicide in the state remain higher than the national average. (Photo by Quentin Young/Colorado Newsline) This article discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or chat online at http://988lifeline.org/ for free, immediate support 24/7. Oregon continues to struggle with rates of suicide higher than the national average, but more behavioral health workers than ever are training in prevention when they receive professional licenses from the state, according to a new state report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Oregon Health Authority has tracked rates of suicide prevention training in two-year periods for licensees across the state since 2018, delivering a report by early August using state licensing board data to the Oregon Legislature. For 2022 to 2024, the agency found that 81.8% of professionals seeking licences or renewals said they took a course on suicide prevention. That marks the highest rate the agency has recorded in the past seven years. This is a big step. However, OHA expects the 2026 report to show an even bigger gap between medical and behavioral health care providers, the report reads. Since 2017, OHA has urged lawmakers to require suicide prevention training for medical providers. Many states already require it by law. Oregon ranks 14th in the nation for overall rates of suicide per 100,000 people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Rates stayed about the same between 2022 and 2023. In 2023, there were 888 suicides in Oregon, according to the report. The 2023 age-adjusted suicide rate was 19.4 per 100,000 people, and the national rate was 14.1 per 100,00. The report does not offer insight into similar figures from 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2019, leaders in suicide prevention in Oregon have made progress in prevention, intervention and postvention work. This includes progress in workforce training, the report reads. Overall, Oregons suicide rate is still high. Differing legislative mandates The state requires the training for mental health professionals seeking certification for a variety of professions, including clinicians, school counselors, psychologists and crisis response team members. The report does not track medical providers like doctors, who are not included in a 2021 state law, House Bill 2315, mandating suicide prevention training by July 2022 for mental health workers. The requirement also applies to specialized health care staff like community health workers, doulas or peer support specialists. The course often takes three to six hours. State researchers found that 95.5% of these specialized workers reported taking a course, the highest level of compliance out of any group of employees mandated to take the training. The lowest level of compliance was among social workers a reported 68.3% of them participated in a training. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report says that the health authority is continuing to push Oregon lawmakers to change the existing framework for training requirements. Physicians and nurses who dont work in behavioral health are recommended to partake in suicide prevention training, under Senate Bill 48 passed in 2017, but they are not required to do so. The state doesnt mandate their licensing boards turn in data on prevention training. In the meantime, the agency has added a variety of courses and themes into the training over the past few years, and they are available statewide for little to no cost, according to the agency. Areas of focus have included issues of culture and diversity, recovery, case studies and response and safety planning. Training typically lasts for three to six hours. One bill that the Legislature considered this past year would have expanded opportunities for suicide education prevention. House Bill 3960 would have allowing suicide prevention education to count towards some licensing boards requirements for cultural competency. It was referred to the House Committee on Emergency Management, General Government and Veterans in April and never received a committee hearing. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Former President Bill Clinton is the "prime suspect" in the House Oversight Committees probe looking at the late financier Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking case, according to the committees chairman Rep. James Comer. "Everybody in America wants to know what went on in Epstein Island, and weve all heard reports that Bill Clinton was a frequent visitor there, so hes a prime suspect to be deposed by the House Oversight Committee," Comer, a Republican from Kentucky, said in a Monday interview with Newsmax. Fox News Digital reached out to Comer's office and received confirmation of his comments to the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The House Oversight Committee issued a large batch of deposition subpoenas to those with ties to Epstein Aug. 5 including the former president and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to testify before lawmakers. Comer Subpoenas The Clintons, Trump's Doj In House Oversight's Epstein Probe House Oversight Committee Chairman Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.) said former President Bill Clinton is the "prime suspect" in the House Oversight Committees probe looking at the late financier Jeffrey Epstein's sex trafficking case. Democrats joined Republicans in voting to move forward issuing the subpoenas. The committee requested Hillary Clinton appear Oct. 9, and Bill Clinton Oct. 14. Read On The Fox News App "So, hopefully well win that court battle with that subpoena and see President Clinton in October," Comer told Newsmax. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clinton has said he has never visited Epsteins island. Clinton wrote in his 2024 memoir "Citizen" that he'd never gone to the island and that he wished he'd never even met Epstein in the first place. A spokesperson for Clinton did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. Meanwhile, the case has attracted additional attention after the Department of Justice and the FBI announced in July the agencies would not release new documents from the Epstein sex trafficking case and that their review into Epstein was closed. House Subcommittee Voted In Favor Of Subpoenaing Bill And Hillary Clinton Over Ghislaine Maxwell Connection Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell were both indicted on federal sex trafficking charges stemming from Epstein's years of abuse of underage girls. The agencies said at the time that they did not track down a list of sexual predators with connections to Epstein, and determined there were no new people who would face charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But thats at odds with efforts by the Oversight Committee, which also issued a subpoena for all Justice Department documents pertaining to Epstein. The committee also issued subpoenas to former FBI Director James Comey, former Attorneys General Eric Holder, Jeff Sessions and Merrick Garland, among others. The Justice Department faces a Tuesday deadline to submit documents related to Epstein, Fox News Digital previously reported. 'Not Going Away': Inside The Epstein Drama That's Thrown House Gop Into Chaos Former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former U.S. President George W. Bush attend the inauguration of then President-elect Donald Trump in the U.S. Capitol Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington. While Comer acknowledged it would prove challenging to actually get the former president to testify before Congress, he remained optimistic about the odds given his track record. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ive never lost a subpoena battle," Comer said Monday. "Ive been chairman of that committee for a year and a half this is the most challenging subpoena Ive ever issued, but what makes this subpoena different is that the Democrats voted with Republicans." Fox News Liz Elkind contributed to this report. Original article source: Bill Clinton prime suspect in oversight probe into Epstein case, GOP lawmaker says In a virtually unprecedented development, former President Bill Clinton and his wife, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, will be forced to testify before Congress about their relationship with sex peddler Jeffrey Epstein, per New York Post. The Clintons, who were subpoenaed by the House Oversight Committee, have downplayed their friendship with the now-dead pedophile, who was convicted in 2008 on prostitution charges related to him having sex with a 14-year-old girl. Yet records show Epstein visited the White House a whopping 17 times during the former commander in chiefs first term sometimes twice in one day, per The Palm Beach Post. Epstein was suspiciously found dead in his New York City jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial for allegedly trafficking underage girls to rich and powerful men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is shocking for individuals who have occupied the highest level of public service to be called to testify about their connection to a man who conducted such depraved activities, says presidential historian Leon Wagener, who has authored four books on the Clintons. The well-connected couple was summoned along with nearly a dozen former federal officials and politicians, including ex-FBI directors James Comey and Robert Mueller. The move comes after Epsteins convicted madam, Ghislaine Maxwell, was grilled for nine hours by the Department of Justice about her late boss activities. Maxwell reportedly answered questions about 100 different people with Epstein associations, according to her attorney Oscar David Markus, who is seeking full immunity for the caged madam for her slated testimony for the committee. Despite a Clinton spokesman insisting in 2019 that the ex-president knew nothing of Epsteins sleazy activities, Bill reportedly flew on the moneymans private jet, known as the Lolita Express, no less than 17 times from 2002 to 2003 and 26 times overall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former POTUS owned up to six meetings with Epstein in 2002 and was captured in photos chatting with girls aboard the disgraced billionaires plane. Bill also spent nine days with the financier in Africa in 2002, a tour that included Chauntae Davies, then 21, who later testified that she was raped by Epstein. In the same year, Clinton gushed to New York magazine through a spokesperson that Jeffrey was a committed philanthropist. Reps for the ex-president later claimed Bill cut off contact with Epstein in 2005. Yet, Maxwell was photographed at the 2010 wedding of Bill and Hillarys daughter, Chelsea, to investor Marc Mezvinsky, and lawmen discovered an outrageous painting of the former president dressed in a womans gown in Epsteins New York mansion. Virginia Giuffre one of Epsteins alleged sex slaves, who mysteriously died by suicide in April insisted in her unpublished memoir, The Billionaires Playboy Club, that Epstein hosted a big dinner party on his Caribbean estate, known as Pedo Island, that featured Bill as the guest of honor. Clinton has vehemently denied ever being on the island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Hillary received a $20,000 campaign donation from Epstein in 1999 during her successful run for Senate in New York. Shes currently facing a firestorm following documented allegations that she green-lit a scheme to smear her 2016 presidential opponent Donald Trump with phony claims that he was in cahoots with Russias dictator Vladimir Putin and the countrys mafia in a failed effort to sway the election. The Clintons have been hiding the true nature of their friendship with Epstein for decades, says Wagener. This could ruin not only their political and business futures but mar their legacies forever. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the U.S. Constitution? For many people, the answer probably involves one of the famous individual liberties that are spelled out in the Bill of Rights, such as freedom of speech, due process, or the right to keep and bear arms. When a person argues that something is unconstitutional, what that person often means is that it violates one or more of the provisions contained in the Bill of Rights. Yet the Constitution did not originally include the Bill of Rights when it was ratified in 1788. Why not? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The answer is that some of the framers of the original Constitution feared that if certain rights were enumerated in the text, all of the other, unenumerated rights would be left wide open for government abuse. "It would not only be useless, but dangerous, to enumerate a number of rights which are not intended to be given up," declared future Supreme Court Justice James Iredell at the North Carolina Ratification Convention in 1788. That is "because it would be implying, in the strongest manner, that every right not included in the exception might be impaired by the government without usurpation." What is more, Iredell declared, "it would be impossible to enumerate every one. Let anyone make what collection or enumeration of rights he pleases, I will immediately mention twenty or thirty more rights not contained in it." That was the position taken by those who came to be known as the Federalists. They thought that adding a bill of rights to the Constitution was a bad idea not because they were against individual rights, but because they despaired of what might happen to any rights that were not specifically written out. But the Constitution's Anti-Federalist critics were not persuaded by such concerns. "The want of a Bill of Rights to accompany this proposed system," declared the Anti-Federalist pamphleteer who went by the pseudonym "John DeWitt," "is a solid objection to it." In his view, "to express those rights" which the government may not infringe was a necessary and proper safeguard against "the intrusion into society of that doctrine of tacit implication which has been the favorite theme of every tyrant from the origin of all governments to the present day." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thomas Jefferson, who was then stationed overseas as the American ambassador to France, shared this Anti-Federalist critique: There are "good things" about the new Constitution, Jefferson wrote from Paris in 1787, but one thing "I do not like" is "the omission of a bill of rights providing clearly and without the aid of sophisms for freedom of religion, freedom of the press, protection against standing armies, restriction against monopolies, the eternal and unremitting force of the habeas corpus laws, and trials by jury in all matters of fact triable by the laws of the land and not the law of Nations." According to Jefferson, "a bill of rights is what the people are entitled to against every government on earth, general or particular, and what no just government should refuse, or rest on inference." Jefferson's friend James Madison, who is often called "the father of the Constitution," took such views to heart. "The great mass of the people who opposed [the Constitution]," Madison told Congress in 1789, "dislike it because it did not contain effectual provision against encroachments on particular rights." So, Madison now argued, why not make effectual provision by adopting a number of new constitutional amendments that "will secure those rights, which [the Anti-Federalists] consider as not sufficiently guarded." In modified form, Madison's proposed batch of amendments would become the Bill of Rights. At the same time, however, Madison never lost sight of the objections made by the Federalists. "It has been observed also against a bill of rights, that, by enumerating particular exceptions to the grant of power, it would disparage those rights which were not placed in that enumeration," he said, "and it might follow by implication, that those rights which were not singled out, were intended to be assigned into the hands of the general government, and were consequently insecure." Madison conceded that "this is one of the most plausible arguments I have ever heard urged against the admission of a bill of rights into this system; But, I conceive, that may be guarded against. I have attempted it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Madison's attempt is better known to us today as the Ninth Amendment, which declares: "The enumeration in the Constitution of certain rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people." Through this provision, Madison sought to simultaneously placate the Anti-Federalists while removing any cause for alarm by the Federalists. Did it work? Well, yes and no. The various liberties spelled out in the Bill of Rights haveat least sometimesserved as important checks against overreaching government. So that's a point to the Anti-Federalists. But what about the sorry state of unenumerated rights? Alas, here we must award a point to the Federalists, who more or less predicted today's lopsided legal order, in which some constitutional rights get more judicial respect than others, and in which unenumerated rights get the least judicial respect of all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the Ninth Amendment is sitting right there in the Constitution, patiently waiting to be deployed in defense of unenumerated rights, just as Madison intended. And perhaps one day it will be. The post Was the Bill of Rights a Bad Idea? Some Founding Fathers Thought So. appeared first on Reason.com. BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) A Birmingham domestic violence suspect was arrested and charged with first-degree kidnapping Tuesday. According to the Birmingham Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Brussels Circle on a report of domestic violence. At the scene, officers found the victims. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel determined the victims did not incur injuries. Officers identified the suspect as 32-year-old Demetrius McClinton. The Jefferson County District Attorneys Office reviewed case information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Blount County sergeant convicted of assaulting inmate Along with the first-degree kidnapping charge, McClinton is also charged with first-degree domestic violence and domestic violence suffocation/strangulation. The kidnapping and first-degree domestic violence charges carry no bond. McClinton was arrested in the 2300 block of 30th Street Ensley and placed in the custody of the Jefferson County Jail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) A Panama City Beach woman had quite the surprise when she was alerted to motion from her home security camera early Thursday morning. When she looked at the footage, she saw a fairly large black bear just casually walking through her driveway, right outside the front door. She said the bear then wandered to other homes, going from trash can to trash can. This happened in the neighborhood near Scott Field Park shortly after 3:30 a.m. The resident, who leaves for work around 3 a.m., had just missed the bear encounter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While shes fairly new to living in the area, she said she never expected to see a bear by her property. Here are tips from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on how to properly secure your trash: Use commercially-manufactured bear-resistant trash cans Change your trash can to make it hard for bears to get into it Build a wildlife-resistant garbage can caddy Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON As a young Black woman, Kaylei Thomas has always been urged by her parents to be careful when out in public. The 18-year-old has learned to avoid causing unnecessary problems that might attract the attention of the police. Thomas, a student at Howard University, was reminded of this warning earlier this week, after President Donald Trump deployed approximately 800 National Guard troops and 500 federal law enforcement agents to Washington. The presidents move came after an attempted carjacking of a former Department of Government Efficiency employee this month. Thomas said that she and two friends Morgan Cunningham, 18, and Jacy Ross, 17 have seen large numbers of agents patrolling the city. The Howard students were recently walking to a restaurant when they said that a group of agents seemed to spring out of nowhere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive never seen that many before in my life, Ross told Capital B. Thomas said that they are aware of the fraught relationship between law enforcement and marginalized communities and dont take comfort in seeing scores of agents walking on the citys streets. She said their first thought when they saw agents near the restaurant was, Why are they here? Many have asked the same question since the federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department on Monday. Thomas and her friends are just a handful of the Black Washington residents who have felt uneasy since Trump launched a crackdown on crime in the capital this week. Repeating racist rhetoric, the president has claimed that the city, which is nearly 45% Black, has been overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals. The city police department released data showing that crime is at a 30-year low in the nations capital, and violent crime has plunged over the past several years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As agents patrol 14th Street, Navy Yard, the National Mall, and other popular areas, many Black residents fear that this increased law enforcement presence will lead to overpolicing, while doing little to meaningfully address crime. FBI agents are followed by protesters Wednesday in Washington. (Andrew Leyden/Getty Images) Zach Haynes believes that crime is an issue in parts of Washington, like it is in any other major city. But he doesnt think that Trumps approach is the answer. Haynes, whos a 23-year-old Washington native, said that one thing he would like to see is more resources brought into the city. Theres a lack of programming for city youth, he said, particularly during the long, hot days of summer. There was a time when the community was what it sounds like: a community, Haynes, a student at the University of the District of Columbia, a public historically Black school, told Capital B. I feel like were losing the spirit of what a community is supposed to be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ricky Thornton, 57, is also a Washington native. He told Capital B that hes concerned about crime, which hes seen ebb and flow over the decades. He said that young people seem to be out of control, adding that he often hears about teenage carjacking rings in the news. Still, as a Black man, Thornton said that he worries that ramping up the presence of law enforcement in the district could lead to overpolicing, including more instances of stop-and-frisk, a police practice that disproportionately burdens Black Americans. You cant just look at somebody and say, Oh, hes doing this, Thorton said, referring to historical patterns of suspecting that Black Americans are engaging in criminal activity simply because of the color of their skin. He doesnt think that people of color should have to fear being stopped by the police, but that now seems to be even more of a possibility with additional law enforcement officers on the street. Fear of a new normal Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks at a press conference Monday after President Donald Trump announced a federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department. The city police department recently released data showing that crime is at a 30-year low in the nations capital. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images) Local officials have echoed residents concerns. During a virtual town hall with community leaders on Tuesday, Mayor Muriel Bowser said that the city must stave off what she called the administrations authoritarian push. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We all need 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, she said. Know where your kids are and make sure that theyre not grouping together, because they will be a target. Bowser was alluding to the Home Rule Act, which was enacted in 1973 and established guidelines for the city to govern itself, with specific limitations that are enforced by Congress. Under the law, presidents can commandeer the citys police department for up to 30 days. While Trump has floated the idea of extending his control, Congress would need to pass a law for him to do that. Critics of Trumps move, including some local officials, said that because the district isnt a state, the city is vulnerable to federal oversight. For decades, D.C. has been used as a petri dish by Congress and presidential administrations to try out a variety of policies, Christina Henderson, an at-large member of the D.C. Council, said in a Monday press release, just after Trumps announcement. Without statehood, we are limited in our ability to prevent or deter these repeated federal incursions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her press release, Henderson welcomed working with the federal government to bolster public safety in the city. She said that the federal government could help fill judicial vacancies that she argued impede swift justice and get the U.S. House of Representatives to pass legislation that would reinstall more than $1 billion to the citys budget that could be used to boost public safety. Earlier this year, when Trump and Republican lawmakers made similar threats to take over Washington, Henderson said to Capital B that her mission is to center the concerns of residents as the city continues to clash with the administration. There are 700,000 people here who are trying to live out the American dream, just like everybody else, she said at the time. Its our responsibility to ensure that were providing services to residents of the district that are beyond what the federal government is able to do, just like other jurisdictions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many Black residents fear that without a more multidimensional response to crime, Washington wont actually become safer. Itll just have more layers of governance. Cunningham, one of the Howard students, told Capital B that she was recently at a party when dozens of police officers and agents showed up because of what they said was an expired alcohol license. One of the agents, she added, said that this was going to be the new normal: Whenever the cops are summoned, agents will follow. The post Black D.C. Residents Say Trumps Tactics Bring More Fear, Not Safety appeared first on Capital B News. SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) The security firm of former U.S. Navy Seal Erik Prince will soon deploy nearly 200 personnel from various countries to Haiti as part of a one-year deal to quell gang violence there, a person with knowledge of the plans said Thursday. The deployment by Vectus Global is meant to help the government of Haiti recover vast swaths of territory seized in the past year and now controlled by heavily armed gangs, said the person, speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss the plans. The company, which provides logistics, infrastructure, security and defense, is run by Prince, a major donor to U.S. President Donald Trump. Prince previously founded the controversial security firm Blackwater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deployment was first reported by Reuters. Vectus Global also will assume a long-term role in advising Haitis government on how to restore revenue collection capabilities once the violence subsides, the person said. In June, Fritz Alphonse Jean, then-leader of Haitis transitional presidential council, confirmed that the government was using foreign contractors. He declined to identify the firm or say how much the deal was worth. Romain Le Cour Grandmaison, head of Haiti Observatory at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, said the operations would violate U.S. law unless the U.S.-based private military company had permission from the U.S. government to work in Haiti. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the absence of a coherent, jointly led Haitian and international strategy, the use of private firms is more likely to fragment authority and sovereignty than to advance resolution of the crisis, he said. A Trump administration official said the U.S. government has no involvement with the hiring of Vectus Global by the Haitian government. The U.S. government is not funding this contract or exercising any oversight, said the official, who requested anonymity to discuss the situation. The office of Haiti's prime minister did not return a message for comment, nor did members of Haiti's transitional presidential council. The private contractors, which will come from the United States, Europe and other regions, are expected to advise and support Haitis National Police and a U.N.-backed mission led by Kenyan police officers that is struggling to suppress gang violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N.-backed mission has 991 personnel, far less than the 2,500 envisioned, and some $112 million in its trust fund about 14% of the estimated $800 million needed a year, according to a recent U.N. report. The upcoming deployment of private contractors comes after the recent appointment of Andre Jonas Vladimir Paraison as the countrys new police director general. Paraison once served as head of security for Haitis National Palace and was involved in a new task forced created earlier this year made up of certain police units and private contractors. The task force has operated outside the oversight of Haitis National Police and employed the use of explosive drones, which some human rights activists have criticized. Diego Da Rin, an analyst with the International Crisis Group, said that while theres an obvious need for more anti-gang operations, there is a risk of escalating the conflict without having enough personnel to extinguish the fires that Viv Ansanm can ignite in many places. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Viv Ansanm is a powerful gang federation created in September 2023 that saw the merging of gangs, including G-9 and G-Pep once bitter enemies. The United States designated it as a foreign terrorist organization earlier this year. The gang federation was responsible for coordinating a series of large-scale attacks early last year that included raids on Haitis two biggest prisons that led to the release of some 4,000 inmates. Viv Ansanm also forced the closure of Haitis main international airport for nearly three months, with the violence eventually prompting then-Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign. Jimmy Cherizier, a leader of Viv Ansanm and best known as Barbecue, recently threatened Paraison. Viv Ansanm has a military might that they dont always show, said Da Rin, the analyst. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least 1,520 people were killed and more than 600 injured from April to the end of June across Haiti. More than 60% of the killings and injuries occurred during operations by security forces against gangs, with another 12% blamed on self-defense groups, according to the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. Gang violence also has displaced some 1.3 million people in recent years. ___ Associated Press writer Joshua Boak in Washington contributed to this report. The Miami Valley area is facing a critical blood shortage due to recent patient traumas, prompting the Versiti Blood Center of Ohio-Dayton to urgently request donations from the public. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Multiple car accidents and rare heart surgeries have significantly depleted the regions blood supply, putting hospitals at risk of not being able to provide necessary treatments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When hospitals run out of blood, critical treatments are delayed, surgeries are postponed, and lives are at risk, said Tracy Morgan, Vice President for Donor Services at Versiti Blood Center of Ohio. Versiti said they have a critical need for O+ and B+ blood donors in Dayton. TRENDING STORIES: August is typically a slow month for blood donations as people are on vacation or returning to school, exacerbating the current shortage. To encourage donations, Versiti is offering a sweepstakes for two Bengals Season Passes for the 2025 season to those who donate by August 31. Additionally, donors who give blood between August 18-24 will receive a $25 E-gift card if they use the code SUMMER when scheduling their appointment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Versiti supplies blood to 32 hospitals in the Dayton region and requires 350 units of blood daily to maintain a stable supply. Those who would like to donate can register online or find a blood drive nearby by visiting versitidayton.org/blood-donation or by calling 937-461-3220. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] BLUFFTON, S.C. (WSAV) The Bluffton Police Department (BPD) shared it is searching for the missing memorial of DJ Fields, a student athlete shot and killed in 2021. The memorial, located at Bluffton Parkway and Flat Creek Drive, surrounded by flowers and mementos, is missing. BPD said, We are heartbroken to share that it is missing, and we are asking for your help in bringing it back. If you have any information that can locate and return the memorial, please contact Captain Karafa at ckarafa@townofbluffton.com or 843-706-4564. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) is demanding Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. immediately fire a key ally from his role as vaccine advisor on a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) panel due to escalating and violent rhetoric in the wake of an attack on CDC headquarters. Blumenthal wrote a letter to Kennedy on Wednesday calling for him to fire Robert Malone from the CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Blumenthal said Malone issued a meme-filled post on his personal blog that included violent and threatening images that appeared to be directed at government officials. Hours before a gunman attacked CDC headquarters, Malone uploaded a post to his personal blog that included an image of a revolver loaded with a single bullet and the words, Five out of six scientists have proven that Russian roulette is harmless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Less than 48 hours after the attack, another of Malones blog posts included images of guns and meme with the words if you need a disarmed society to govern, you suck at governing. On Friday, a gunman opened fire on the CDC in Atlanta, killing a responding police officer. Officials said almost 500 shell casings were recovered, and about 200 struck six facilities on the agencys campus. The alleged shooter was motivated by his distrust of the COVID-19 vaccine, according to law enforcement. Kennedy tapped Malone as one of eight hand-picked replacement members of the ACIP in June after firing the 17 sitting panelists. Malone is a former researcher who helped lay the groundwork for mRNA vaccine technology, but has since turned into a self-professed anti-vaxxer, COVID-19 skeptic and close advisor to Kennedy. ACIP is an influential panel that recommends which vaccines go on the childhood and adult schedules after reviewing safety data. If ACIP endorses a vaccine, insurers must cover it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Malone has displayed an unfathomable failure of judgment and heartlessness for the family of slain Officer Rose, and for the thousands of CDC staff on whom the work of ACIP depends, Blumenthal wrote in the letter. Dr. Malones escalating and violent rhetoricincluding in the aftermath of this tragic incidenthas no place on a panel responsible for determining immunization recommendations for children and adults throughout our country, he continued, before calling on Kennedy to fire Malone immediately. Malone did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Sen. Blumenthals demand is nothing more than virtue signaling, an HHS spokesman told The Hill. Dr. Malone was selected for ACIP based on his long-standing scientific credentials and we are grateful to him for taking the call to serve. This is not a moment for the media or democratic lawmakers to exploit a tragedy for political gain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Brief A major railway company, BNSF, plans to build a new logistics hub in Wittmann, Arizona, drawing opposition from local residents concerned about traffic, noise, and environmental impact. While BNSF highlights the potential for 77,000 new jobs, residents and local leaders argue the negative effects on their rural community outweigh the economic benefits. WITTMANN, Ariz. - One of the nation's largest freight railway companies is planning a brand-new logistics hub less than a mile from some homes in Wittmann, an unincorporated community about an hour northwest of Phoenix in Maricopa County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some residents are part of a movement opposing the project. What we know Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) bought the state trust land in 2022, near property the company purchased in 2004. BNSF touts the economic benefits the hub will bring, including the creation of approximately 77,000 new jobs. However, residents say the downsides outweigh any economic boost. Safety, water and power consumption, and noise pollution are all concerns. An increase in traffic is also a factor, with a traffic impact analysis showing an expected 22,000 additional vehicles daily in the area. Some residents say development is not the issue, but they would rather see a rural residential project near their homes than a busy railway operation. Opposition letters have also come from the principal at nearby Nadaburg Elementary School and a retirement community in Sun City West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BNSF representatives say the company is committed to working with residents to be the best neighbors possible, but Wittmann resident Kirby Anderson isn't buying it. Wittmann resident Kirby Anderson "It's corporate profits before people and that's unfortunate. It's sad that that's the way our society is going, that some members believe that's the way," Anderson said. "I ask them if they truly believe that, come out and take a tour with me and see if I can change your mind." BNSF public affairs spokesperson Lena Kent said she understands residents' concerns. "I know that people are worried about the area changing with our project, but there's already so much master development planned out there," Kent said. "I mean that whole area is growing and when you think about how are you gonna meet the needs, the transportation needs of that area, or of the Phoenix marketplace, how do you plan to do that? You can truck it all in, or you can rail it all in and if you're gonna rail it in, we need a place to land it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click to open this PDF in a new window. What they're saying Anderson says the hub spanning over 4,000 acres around his and his neighbors' homes will greatly harm their community. "This project is such a monstrosity and such a negative impact on surrounding communities. It should be located five miles from a residential property," Anderson said. Instead, it's planned to be built less than a mile from their quiet community, where Laura Deaver lives with her husband and young daughter. A major concern for them is safety. Wittmann resident Laura Deaver and her daughter "As you can see, I have a second-grader. We know all of our neighbors, everybody knows us, and it's very rare to see strangers out here and with this project there are a lot of safety issues with living next to a logistics facility like they're proposing," Deaver said. "Rural residential does not belong next to heavy-duty industrial." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents also worry about water and power consumption and the rising costs that could come with it. "Land use, as rural residential homes, would use about 720,000 gallons of water a day. BNSF is going to use 1.7 million gallons of water a day. So the best use of the land just from a water standpoint is homes," Anderson said. Kent said those statistics are not accurate and that the company will use less water than a residential master plan would. "In an intermodal facility, the type of use that we'll have there is for basic use sites. Using the restroom and washing their hands. We're not big consumers of the water," Kent said. BNSF public affairs spokesperson Lena Kent Dig deeper BNSF acquired Type 2 water rights to build wells for the project, which Kent said limits their allotment of water use. "BNSF acquired 1,661 acre-feet per year of Type 2 water rights. We can't withdraw any more than that," Kent said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deaver fears that the allotment may hurt residents who also rely on well water. "If our water table drops and our wells, heaven forbid, go dry, it's our responsibility to re-drill them and that's a cost that a lot of us cannot afford," Deaver said. Kent explained further, saying, "A typical residential subdivision needs roughly 1.5 AF per acre of water annually. If BNSFs site was developed as a residential master-plan that uses 1.5 AF/ac, it would use 6,463.5 AF/yr. That comes out to BNSFs project using only ~27% as much water as a residential master plan would." The company has also requested a change to zoning requirements that would allow them to build structures double or triple the current Maricopa County industrial height requirements. Anderson said that to put it into scale, the power line's first line on the bottom is 30 feet, the second is 60 feet, and the top is 90 feet. Burlington Northern Santa Fe freight train comes around a bend in the tracks. (Photo by: Don and Melinda Crawford/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) To combat the potential disruption to locals, BNSF plans to build buffers between its property and homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In Maricopa County, for example, you're only required to have a 25-foot setback between the home and the warehouse, for example. And we have proposed a minimum of 400 feet, so significantly farther away from their homes than what other development could potentially be there," Kent said. "In the 400-foot setback, 150 feet of that will be landscaping and berms to shield them from, you know, the side of the warehouses." Anderson said he's not buying it. "The trees that they show on their plan, it would take probably 60 years or longer to get the trees that full," Anderson said. "That tree over there for example has been there for six years and it was a very large tree when it showed up here in the first place. It's not protecting lights, it's not protecting any sound." BNSF lists the addition of traffic signals and intersection improvements near the hub, and Kent said conversations are ongoing with transportation agencies. Still, no plans have been mentioned to widen existing roadways. 'It's very heartbreaking what big industry can do' That's a major red flag for District 29 Legislative Chair Lisa Everett. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It concerns me that BNSF does not have in any of their plans to widen the roads, whether it's the 60, the 74 or any of the roads near their property," Everett said. "So we're talking two-lane roads with an astronomical number of trucks added to the traffic we already have." Everett is supportive of the opposition movement and residents voicing these concerns. "I've learned that it's very heartbreaking what big industry can do unless the public stands up and fights," she said. "They're clearly telling them that this is not something for our community, it could be put further in the desert and not have the negative impact on the neighborhood. They just don't feel heard." District 29 Legislative Chair Lisa Everett Maricopa County Board of Supervisors member Debbie Lesko said she hears residents loud and clear and is taking their concerns seriously ahead of the board's vote on the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If the vote was tomorrow or today, I would vote no, because the majority of my constituents are opposed to this," Lesko said. "Now, if something changes between now and Nov. 5, then we'll see. But right now, if they voted today, I'd vote no." Maricopa County Board of Supervisors member Debbie Lesko Lesko said there is a meeting on Aug. 13 with the Arizona Department of Transportation and the Maricopa County Department of Transportation to further discuss traffic problems. The project will go before the Zoning and Planning Commission in October, and the Board of Supervisors will vote on the project Nov. 5. Lesko did mention that due to federal exemption rights for railroads, the intermodal facility portion of the project could still be built without county approval. 'It's really important for us as a company to be a good neighbor' Kent said the company has held meetings to hear residents and has made changes to aspects of the project because they care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's really important for us as a company to be a good neighbor. And that's why we've gone in, and we've tried to make all of the concessions to do the best that we possibly can," Kent said. Meanwhile, Anderson and Deaver say communication with BNSF is lacking and encourage anyone in favor of the project to spend some time in Wittmann before assuming it's the right location for the hub. "Come out and visit. Please come out here and visit. It doesn't belong," Deaver said. "If you come out here, and you walk our community, you will see that it does not belong." What you can do Click here to learn more about the project. Four bodies have been recovered from the Seine river just outside Paris, prosecutors said on Thursday. Authorities have so far found no evidence linking the cases. They noted that the location in Choisy-le-Roi where the bodies were found could be explained by the river's conditions in that area. The causes of death and the identities of the victims remain unknown, prosecutors in the suburb of Creteil said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the newspaper Le Parisien, all four victims were men. Three were fully clothed, while one was found without trousers or underwear. The report said the bodies had likely been in the water for several days. The discoveries were reportedly prompted by a train passenger who spotted one of the corpses in the Seine and alerted the authorities. Emergency services retrieved the bodies on Wednesday. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The Clark County Sheriffs Office is releasing new bodycam footage of a deputy who shot and killed a man two weeks ago in downtown Vancouver. On July 30, deputies were trying to locate a man armed with a gun, who was allegedly drunk and high on meth and making deadly threats towards his family and himself, officials said. Pine Fire prompts Level 3 Go Now evacuations The incident occurred near Main Street and East 19th Street. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Clark County Sheriffs Office said earlier that night, deputies responded to a call from a home at East 27th and H Street on a report that the callers son, Branden Whitcomb, was under the influence and was threatening to kill them and himself. Law enforcement officials said the suspect took off on a bike and was later found with a weapon near Main Street, where a deputy opened fire. The State of Washingtons new Office of Independent Investigation is now poring over evidence to determine what led to the mans death. Family found dead in apparent murder-suicide In region one, there are 12 counties, that includes Clark County. Since we began responding to incidents, as of December 1 of last year, three of the five incidents were investigating have occurred in Clark County. Two of them have involved the Clark County Sheriffs Office, said Hector Castro with the WA Office of Independent Investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Michael Gonzalez was placed on critical incident leave, per agency protocol. The Office of Independent Investigation is expected to release its report to prosecutors in the coming days. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 THE NEW YORK TIMES REPORTED LAST FRIDAY that Donald Trump has ordered U.S. military forces to fight Mexican and Venezuelan drug cartels. Such an order would hardly be unprecedented in world history, yet there are good reasons most countries avoid using military force to address their drug problems. The United States has plenty of its own experiences using the military against drug traffickers to draw on, but none as disastrous as Chinas attempt to curb opium in 1839. Chinese viceroy Lin Zexu set out to rid his country of the scourge of British opium. He had moral clarity, imperial authority, and a deep sense of urgency: The British were supporting an illegal opium trade into China, which was undermining Chinas sovereignty and immiserating many of its people. If the traffic in opium were not stopped, he warned, a few decades from now we shall not only be without soldiers to resist the enemy, but also in want of silver to provide an army. He trapped British opium traders in port, confiscated their contraband, and destroyed it both on land and on their ships. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a bold move to choke off the supply of a dangerous narcotic. It was also a diplomatic disaster. Britain seized on Lins actions as a pretext for war. The First Opium War ended with Chinas defeat, the forced reintroduction of opium, and humiliating concessions that left the country worse off than before. Nuanced arguments, sharp analysis, fresh reporting, and a community like no other: See why more than 100,000 people have joined Bulwark+. I used this example in a March 1990 Military Review article, Narcoterrorism: The New Unconventional War, written while I was a major at the U.S. Armys School of Advanced Military Studies. Back then, the United States was gripped by the crack epidemic, Colombian cartels dominated the headlines, and some in Washington were urging the use of the military to attack the drug trade at its source. Even though Chinas modern century of humiliation was ushered in when it lost a fight to a threat identical to the one we are facing, I wrote, The United States must adapt its Armed Forces for operations against narcoterrorism. . . . Doing anything less would tarnish the ideals of our profession. It is not a mistake to apply conventional forces to this type of unconventional war, but we must apply those forces with intelligence and imagination. Our nations survival depends on it. My focus in that piece was the supply sideusing military capabilities to dismantle production and transit networks abroad. Being a naive young officer, I did not meaningfully address the demand side: the millions of Americans willing to buy drugs, and how their appetite drives the entire trade. Even now, that demand remains the economic engine of the crisis, and its far harder to shut down than any cartel lab. TRUMPS IDEA OF USING Americas military strength to attack the supply side of the drug trade has visceral appeal. It certainly did for me when I advocated a similar policy 35 years ago. The cartels are heavily armed, brutal, and sophisticated. Fentanyl deaths in the United States are killing Americans. And the U.S. military, on paper, has unmatched capabilities to hit these networks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as I cautioned in 1990, military forces cannot act alone in eradication efforts. The State Department, DEA, . . . CIA . . . USAID . . . ambassadors and many other interested agencies must act together with host nation organizations. That remains true todaythough USAID has been reduced to a shell of its former self, which will make it more difficult to transition economies currently dependent on drug production to transition to other industries. Share In any operation inside Mexico, or any other country, U.S. forces would have to be part of a host-nationled multinational forceinvited, integrated, and under a framework that respects a foreign nations sovereignty. Anything less would almost certainly fail diplomatically and could fail strategically. More broadly, using the military as the Times report suggests Trump has ordered is fraught with legal and political problems. At home, the Posse Comitatus Act limits the role of federal military forces in domestic law enforcement. Soldiers cannot, without explicit congressional authorization, search, seize, or arrest suspects on U.S. soil. In 1990, I put it plainly: For the military to assist law enforcement officials, Congress must make it acceptable and legal for military units or personnel to arrest, search, seize and detain suspected drug smugglers. That hasnt changedand Congress still has not given it that authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other side of the border, the legal ground is even shakier. Sending U.S. troops into Mexico without its consent would violate international law and rupture relations. Mexican leaders from across the political spectrum have made clear that any unilateral U.S. military action would be seen as an attack on their sovereignty. The Trump administration has designated several Mexican and Venezuelan cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, but that status only applies to American domestic law. It makes it a crime to aid these organizations and allows the government to freeze their assets, but it doesnt provide a casus belli under international law. And if the administration were to attack them anyway, military operations would still be bound by the law of armed conflictrequiring proportionality, distinction between combatants and civilians, and accountability for every use of force. As a colleague sardonically asked me when I was writing my 1990 article, What rights does a drug smuggler have when hes facing the wrong end of a .50 caliber machine gun? The answer, then and now, should be clear: He still has rights. The U.S. military is trained to fight the nations enemiesuniformed combatants in recognized conflicts. As decades of recent experience have shown, the military is less effective at fighting irregular groups of non-state combatants, especially when asked to do it with insufficient diplomatic, economic, and intelligence support. Criminal organizations would strain the military operationally, doctrinally, and morally even more than Islamist terrorist groups did: A cartel operative may be a shooter one day and a civilian the next. Placing soldiers in situations where they are pulling triggers against criminals, rather than battlefield enemies, changes the nature of the mission and the psychology of those carrying it out. It risks eroding the clear moral distinction between combat and policing, something essential to our militarys professional ethic and to public trust. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is why, if U.S. troops were ever committed to a counternarcotic campaign, it must be in close partnership with host-nation forces who have the legal mandate for law enforcement and internal security. The mission and the rules must be theirs; our role would be to support and strengthen, not supplant. In my original article, I described how U.S. surveillance aircraft, special operations units, and mobile light infantry might be part of the force used to disrupt drug processing sites, interdict shipments, and support host-nation forces. Those capabilities remain potent. The question is not whether the military can disrupt cartel operationsit canbut whether doing so will deliver lasting results. History offers a warning. In the 1980s, Operation Blast Furnace saw U.S. forces help destroy Bolivias cocaine labs. For four months, the cocaine industry there was essentially paralyzed. Then the cartels adapted, shifted production, and the flow resumed. Supply-side strikes, whether in South America or across our southern border, are temporary unless paired with sustained demand-reduction at home and stronger governance abroad. Plan Colombia, the fifteen-year effort to help Colombia defeat its cartels and insurgents itself, is a better model for fighting narcotics syndicates than Operation Blast Furnace. Notably, it focused less on the military and kinetic action than on foreign aid, training, and diplomacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get 30 day free trial ITS TEMPTING TO FRAME THE DRUG CRISIS as a fight against them. But we cant avoid talking about us. If tens of millions of Americans are willing to pay for illegal drugs, someone somewhere will find a way to supply them. Demand reduction is slower, messier, and less dramatic than a military raid. It requires public health programs, addiction treatment, education, community investment, and political leadership. But without it, military strikes are just sweeping water out of a flooded house while the pipe is still gushing. From the Opium Wars to todays cartel fight, the lessons arent complicated: Unilateral military action in another country without consent can backfire catastrophically. Destroying drugs is easier but less permanent than diminishing demand. Any U.S. military role must be as part of a host-nationled, multinational force. Posse Comitatus is not a loopholeits a safeguard against the militarization of domestic policing. Rules of engagement and the laws of armed conflict apply, even to drug smugglers. Soldiers should not be tasked in ways that blur the line between combat and policing without clear legal authority and oversight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres no doubt that narcoterrorism is an unconventional war. It runs through jungles abroad and streets at home. The military can be part of the solutionbut only as one piece of a broader, lawful, diplomatically sound, and host-nationdriven strategy. Otherwise, we risk repeating Lin Zexus mistake: striking at the symptom, misjudging the strategic context, and ending up worse off than when we began. Share TYLER, Texas (KETK) Students and teachers returned to Bonner Elementary School in Tyler on Wednesday morning as the new school year officially began. Today is my favorite day: New superintendent greets Alto ISD on first day Bonner is coming off a stellar school year, where they received an A accountability rating for the first time in school history. The rating is provided by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and is based on the districts internal analysis, along with TEA accountability metrics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our team has shown incredible resilience, Tyler ISD superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford said. With the disrupted ratings calendar environment caused by a handful of litigious ISDs in which Tyler ISD did not participate we stayed focused on what mattersquality instruction, student learning, growth and opportunity. Our teachers know how to compete and our students know how to perform. Bonner principal Elizabeth Gomez credits the hard work of the teachers and students for helping the school secure an A rating. I think its a reflection of our students hard work and the dedication of our awesome teachers, Gomez said. Bonner will be entering the new school year with 385 students from pre-school through fifth grade. Gomez said the goal this year is to continue to grow and build the school community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. As Gov. Gavin Newsom prepared to announce that he would take on President Trump's redistricting plans on behalf of California, scores of federal immigration agents massed outside the venue Thursday. Newsom was set to speak at the Japanese American National Museum in downtown Los Angeles, when Border Patrol Sector Chief Gregory Bovino, who has been leading the immigration operations in California, arrived in Little Tokyo, flanked by agents in helmets, camouflage, masks and holding guns. "We're here making Los Angeles a safer place since we won't have politicians that'll do that, we do that ourselves," Bovino told a Fox 11 reporter in Little Tokyo. "We're glad to be here, we're not going anywhere." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the reporter noted that Newsom was nearby, Bovino responded, "I don't know where he's at." Newsom's office took to X to share that agents were outside, posting: "BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED!" The apparent raid Thursday, during which one person was detained, comes amid calls from elected officials for an end to renewed immigration operations across the L.A. area. Federal agents have carried out a string of raids over the past week, arresting several people at car washes and Home Depot stores. Immigrant advocates and city leaders had hoped such sweeps had stopped with a federal judges July order, affirmed by a U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals panel on Aug. 1. The courts ruled that immigration officials cannot racially profile people or use roving patrols to target immigrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a press conference outside of the museum following the operation, Mayor Karen Bass said, "there's no way this was a coincidence." "This was widely publicized that the governor and many of our other elected officials were having a press conference to talk about redistricting, and they decided they were going to come and thumb their nose in front of the governor's face. Why would you do that? That is unbelievably disrespectful, it's a provocative act," Bass said. "They're talking about disorder in Los Angeles," the mayor said, "and they are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now." In an emailed response, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said Bass "must be misinformed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our law enforcement operations are about enforcing the law not about Gavin Newsom," she said. McLaughlin added that U.S. Customs and Border Protection "patrols all areas of Los Angeles every day with over 40 teams on the ground to make LA safe." Newsom and Democratic allies, including organized labor, were at the Democracy Center at the Japanese American National Museum to announce the launch of a campaign for a ballot measure which, if approved by voters, would redraw the states congressional maps to favor Democrats before the 2026 midterms. William T. Fujioka, chair of the Board of Trustees of the Japanese American National Museum, was attending the Newsom press conference when federal agents jumped out of SUVs just feet away from him in front of the museum. Video captured of the scene showed federal agents on either side of a man, in a red shirt and jeans, whose hands were cuffed behind his back. As a passerby shouted that they were "cowards," Bovino said, "well done." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carlos Franco said he works with Angel, the man who was arrested by federal agents, and said Angel was in Little Tokyo delivering strawberries. His delivery van was still parked outside the museum more than an hour after he was arrested, Franco said. Franco came straight to the scene after he received calls that his coworker had been arrested. He was just doing his normal delivery to the courthouse, Franco said. Its pretty sad, because Ive got to go to work tomorrow, and Angel isnt going to be there. Saying he was shaken by his friends apprehension, Franco advised everyone to be careful in general, whether youre undocumented or not." Bovino told reporters in Little Tokyo that agents were out conducting "roving patrol duties." He acknowledged that agents had detained one person and said, "we will patrol anywhere in Los Angeles." Asked if their presence just happened to coincide with Newsom's press conference, Bovino said, "breaking the law is not coincidental." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When they break the law, you can expect you're probably going to get arrested," he said. DHS did not immediately respond to questions about the arrest. Fujioka said the agents' appearance in Little Tokyo is a parallel of what happened in 1942, and noting that the museum was built on the location where L.A. residents of Japanese descent were told to come here and put on buses and sent to camps. At 73, Fujioka is a third-generation Japanese American. He said about 20 people were arrested during Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids two weeks ago at restaurants and businesses in and near Little Tokyo Village Plaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats happening right now is reprehensible, he said. One of the fallacies is that this is only targeting Latinos. If you look at the Vietnamese, Cambodian, Hmong, Chinese, even Japanese communities, theyre being picked up right in court. Speaking with community leaders on L.A.'s Westside early Thursday morning, Bass condemned the continued raids and said she believed they violated the temporary restraining order upheld by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals earlier this month. Even though we've had two successful court decisions, the administration continues with their unconstitutional behavior. Coming and going to Home Depot stores, continuing to chase people through parking lots, detaining them for no particular reason under the auspices that they could be criminals, [it] comes down to one thing and that is racial profiling, Bass said. The Trump administration last week petitioned the Supreme Court to allow mass deportation efforts across Southern California, seeking to lift a ban on roving patrols implemented after a lower court found such tactics likely violate the 4th Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We know the next step is to go to the Supreme Court, and we are hoping that we will have a good decision there," Bass said. "But the question looms before us, even if we do have a positive court decision: 'Will the administration follow the rule of law?'" Times staff writer Laura J. Nelson contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. When officers approached the suspect to check, he pulled out a knife. The police subdued the suspect and took him into custody. The knife was confiscated, and the officers weren't harmed. Border Police arrested a man from Gaza in his 20s on suspicion of attempting to carry out a terror attack at the Qalandiya checkpoint, north of Jerusalem. The officers saw the suspect walking toward the crossing on foot and became suspicious. When they approached him to check, he pulled out a knife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police subdued the suspect and took him into custody. The knife was confiscated, and the officers weren't harmed. Officers are still operating at the scene as normal. IDF soldiers arrested five terrorists in the city of Qalqilya on suspicion of involvement in terror activities, Walla reported. The knife seized from the suspect at the Qalandiya crossing on August 14, 2025. (credit: Police Spokesperson ) On Wednesday, police arrested a resident of Tulkarm suspected of planning a terror-related offense within Israel. The arrest took place at a construction site in Ra'anana following extensive ground and aerial searches. Security forces conducted searches for over an hour for the Tulkarm resident suspected of intending to carry out the attack. Security forces arrest 42 Palestinians from Gaza in Nazareth Additionally, on Tuesday, Israeli security forces arrested 42 illegal Palestinian residents from Gaza in Nazareth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of an operation aimed at preventing illegal stay offenses, Border Police and Israel Police officers searched various buildings in Nazareth to locate illegal residents. Israel Police said in a statement that 28 illegal residents were found in one building, along with a large quantity of goods. Later on, the operating forces located 11 additional illegal residents hiding out in an apartment, and an furtheranother three in a second apartment. An initial investigation revealed that all came from Gaza. This is a developing story. Efrat Forsher contributed to this report. Elon Musk's The Boring Company started digging in Nashville this week, marking the start of construction on its proposed high-speed tunnel connecting downtown Nashville to the airport. However, the project requires additional approval from state and federal officials before The Boring Co. can bore outside of its 0.8-acre site at 637 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation. The Tennessee State Building Commision granted The Boring Co. a rent-free lease on the land July 31, and it will last through 2027. The lease requires that The Boring Co. return the parking lot to the same or a better condition as existed at the start of the lease term." The state also retained the right to terminate the lease if the "tunnel construction project does not progress. The Boring Co. has started excavation work at a state-owned parking lot on Rose Parks Boulevard for the Music City Loop project Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025 in Nashville, Tenn. Elon Musks company plans to build an underground transit system in Nashville and said the project, which will connect downtown with the airport, will be completed in spring 2026. Musk's employees began setting up fences, tents Dumpsters and equipment on the land before the lease was even approved, which building commission members said was common practice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, a hole the width of about four standard-sized parking spots is visible from the outskirts of the state-owned parking lot. There are three layers of fences between the hole and the public sidewalk that wraps around the property. Construction workers were seen milling about the area, which also houses a small trailer and at least two non-Boring-built excavators. It's unclear what machinery workers utilized to dig the visible hole. The company's proprietary boring machine Prufrock was not visible on the site. Where will the Boring Co.'s Nashville tunnel be built? A map shows a draft of the proposed route for The Boring Company's tunnel from the State Capitol to Nashville International Airport. The Boring Co. revealed a map of the proposed path to the Convention Center Authority on Aug. 7. The starting point is the Tennessee State Capitol. It would run down Rosa L. Parks Boulevard to 8th Avenue S. and on to Music City Center before turning on Lafayette Street. It would then follow Murfreesboro Pike and run all the way to the airport. The draft map shows the tunnel turning left onto airport property on Donelson Pike. It's unclear where exactly the State Capitol and airport stations will be located, and the Convention Center Authority has not voted on whether it would approve a Music City Center Station though board members have voiced optimistic support for the idea. What is a Boring Co. tunnel like? Passengers would enter a station and pay for rides on site. After paying, they would board a Tesla Model X or Y and be driven directly to another station of their choosing in under 10 minutes. The driver would pull into a dropoff spot, and the passenger may exit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Boring Co. estimates that its wait time for cars is 10 seconds, accounting for the time it takes for one passenger to exit and another to enter. How much will it cost to ride in the Boring Co. tunnel? The Boring Co. has not released a price range for Music City Loop tunnel, but company officials said they don't expect much change in price from the already operable Las Vegas Loop. There, the cost for one ride ranges from $4 to $12. Hadley Hitson covers business news for The Tennessean. She can be reached at hhitson@gannett.com. To support her work, subscribe to The Tennessean. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Elon Musk's Boring Company starts tunneling in Nashville After Box Elder County residents in November 2024 struck down a $220 million bond proposal that wouldve gone toward various district improvements that included new builds and renovations, the Box Elder School District was forced to look for another avenue to secure funds. That came just after midnight early Thursday via a 37.2% property tax increase approved by the districts board. The move is expected to cost the average homeowner in the county an extra $343 a year. For business owners, the increase is an extra $624 a year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The increased funds, the board said, will be used exclusively for two things: increasing employee compensation by 2% and addressing building improvement needs, which include building a new elementary school in the West Tremonton area and adding on to both Bear River and Box Elder high schools. In a Truth in Taxation presentation before public comment, district business administrator Neil Stevens said part of the strain on the districts budget comes from legislative requirements that dont have funding attached. The Legislature loves to pass new laws. Last year, they passed 57% of the laws they proposed for education. That imposes new requirements on us. That imposes new reports, (and) oftentimes it does not come with new funding, Stevens said. Sixty percent of our new requirements do not have funding attached to them. The state puts a requirement on us. We have to fund it somehow, and oftentimes, the answer is property taxes. During the public comment period of the hearing, Rep. Tom Peterson, R-Brigham City, responded to those concerns, saying the Legislature is doing everything we can for education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2022, the allocation that we had for Box Elder County was $96.8 million; in 2026, the allocation is $131 million. Thats an increase of almost 40% in five years, Peterson said. I want to make sure that the public knows that were funding education at record levels. And I get that you have to deal with things on your level, as well, but were doing our best to fund public education. While the hearing included a healthy dose of opinions on both sides of the aisle, when it came to how people felt about a tax increase, some in support of the hike also took to criticizing the Utah Legislature. Joel Wilson, a former student in the district, sarcastically thanked the Legislature for bravely leading Utah into the golden age of public education before pointing out that Utah is near the bottom of the nation in terms of per-pupil education funding. Lawmakers have managed to do the impossible. They kept taxes low, funding lower, and expectations lowest of all. Bravo, really, but wait, heres the plot twist. Theyve essentially deputized you to do their dirty work. Theyve said, Hey, we dont want to raise property taxes because thats politically unpopular. But if you school boards locally want to do that, knock yourselves out. Thats not leadership; thats passing their grenade and pulling the pin on the way out, Wilson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets be clear: This is not about fiscal conservatism; this is about political cowardice. If they were really for public education, they would fund it. If they dont have the guts to fund it, they should say that to us, to parents, teachers, to you, to everyone who is doing more with less every single year. They shouldnt sit on Capitol Hill pretending that everythings fine while you guys have to face the fire at these Truth in Taxation hearings. The hearing also featured those working in education, pleading with the board to pass the tax increase to support educators and students. Like others, I dont want my taxes raised. But its kind of funny that, as school employees who live in the district, we would have to pay more to possibly get a raise at the same time. But something does need to be done, said Todd Barrow, principal at Discovery Elementary School. As a board, you have a rare opportunity to vote on something that will have real, tangible impact on whats best for kids in our district, and I hope you take advantage of this opportunity. Other residents, like Chad Kearl, said the hearing felt like the board just checking the box and that most members had already made up their minds before hearing from residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You say this is trimmed back to not put too much burden on the taxpayers, and that this new proposal costs less than the bond would have. It is going to cost the taxpayers more. Instead of the nearly $20 from the bond, I will now pay nearly double that of $38 a month, Kearl said. Steven Pocock, a Brigham City resident, said county residents cannot bear the tax increase. People just decide that they can take money out of my pocket and spend it for whatever theyd like to do and thats got to stop, Pocock said. Board member Karen Cronin, who cast the lone vote in opposition to the hike, pleaded with her fellow board members beforehand to respect the voice of the people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the district has a different plan than what was proposed on the bond, take it back to the voters. Do not force this 37% tax increase on them. We need their trust now, and we will need it in the future. Many of our neighbors are already stretched thin, working extra jobs, skipping medical care and struggling to pay for food and necessities, Cronin said. After over five hours of public comment, the motion to increase taxes was passed in a 5-1 vote. PARK TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) Beachgoers can grab lunch to go from a new eatery by Holland State Park. Boxed Up Kitchen opened in June inside the Anchor Party Store at 1798 Ottawa Beach Road west of 160th Avenue in Park Township, as first reported by News 8 partner the Holland Sentinel. The eatery, which celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting July 10, offers 17 sandwiches to go, plus build-your-own sandwiches, salads and catering. Hang out and pet cats at new Holland-area cat lounge Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its an expansion of Anna Maiers first business, Great Lakes Charcuterie. She said she has been looking to open a storefront since starting the charcuterie catering business about three years ago, but an industry professional advised her to stay mobile for as long as possible. Boxed Up Kitchen in Park Township. (Courtesy) It was great advice, she said, and for the past three years she has been renting commercial spaces from other business owners and restaurants. Still, as her business grew and several customers asked if she offered items like sandwiches, she decided it was time to open her own storefront. Finally it did hit a point of, You know, what? In order for this business to grow and in order for me to feel like we have a space of our own to promote our business, to promote our product, we need this kitchen,' she said. Books and Mortar opening Holland sister store that offers books and records Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She landed on the space inside the party store, which has turned into a symbiotic relationship as both have helped bring the other more foot traffic. Boxed Up Kitchen in Park Township. (Courtesy) Boxed Up Kitchen in Park Township. (Courtesy) She noted that while theres several quick, grab-and-go options in the Holland areas south side, there arent as many in the north side. With Boxed Up Lunch, she saw an opportunity to offer something quick for boaters, campers and locals. Plus, it allows her to spend more time on the water herself. Ive just always tried to be creative and find something that works, something that the community needs that also works with my lifestyle. And this just was the perfect, perfect spot, she said. (There are) so many people who are looking for quick, easy options while also not compromising the quality of good fresh food. Couple opens Wyoming cafe with Vietnamese coffee, matcha Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since opening, she said her business has gotten busier every week. That has come with its own challenges, like having to hire more people during the business busiest month yet as some workers head back to school. Theres just been a lot of challenges that have come with getting so busy so quickly, which is a fantastic problem to have. Every business owner, every food industry person wants this problem, she said. Inside WOODTV.com: Building West Michigan Headed into the fall and winter months, shell start to offer items like soups and paninis. While it may close for a month or two to reboot, she said she plans on staying open for most of the offseason. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement (Were) trying to stay open and appeal to the locals who have about a 15-, 20-minute drive into town for anything quick and easy to pick up, she said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) BR Music Studios is fostering community and creativity through sound. They are hosting a Music Exploration Day. This event, in partnership with the Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, is for those with special needs. Doug Gay, founder of Baton Rouge Music Studios, said this event is for everyone. It welcomes people of all ages and abilities. Attendees can enjoy a day packed with music activities, acoustic performances, and talent showcases. Participants can shine and share their creativity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well have structured stations and activities, then the rest is walk around and explore. Well have instruments everywhere. People can touch things, hit things, strum things and then were opening up to allow attendees to show off. Well have a talent show, said Gay. Amanda Mitchell, executive director of Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, said this event helps people with special needs. It allows them to learn, grow, and find joy through music. Mitchell said that, as the mom of a son with epilepsy, she wanted to create a space for kids to get structured learning in a fun way. Trying to get them into structured kind of environments when youre learning music can be more of a challenge. It can be challenging for the music teachers too, even if they want them to have kids to understand, said Mitchell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chaos reigns in Noises Off play at Sullivan Theater The Music Exploration Day is from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16 at the Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana, located at 2041 Silverside Drive. Youre encouraged to pre-register. Tickets are $10, and you can purchase them on Eventbrite. You can also visit the BR Music Studios website or email them at contact@brmusicstudios.com. Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. SAO PAULO (AP) Lawyers for Brazils former President Jair Bolsonaro denied coup charges against him during their final defense in a Supreme Court trial over his alleged attempt to stay in power after losing the 2022 election to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The lawyers argued late Wednesday that no solid evidence had been presented to prove that Bolsonaro acted against Brazils democratic institutions or incited others to do so, and said the fact that he allowed the presidential transition to proceed contradicts the basic allegation that he plotted to thwart it. This is evidence that eliminates the most essential of the accusatory premises, they said. The former president and other defendants were required to present their final arguments by Wednesday. This marks the last procedural step before the trial concludes, which is expected by years end. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A panel of five Supreme Court justices will now decide whether Bolsonaro and his allies are guilty. If convicted of attempting a coup, Bolsonaro could face up to 12 years in prison. Combined with other charges, he could spend decades behind bars. Even if convicted, Bolsonaro can appeal the decision to the full Supreme Court. Brazils top court on elections has already barred the far-right leader from running for office until 2030, ruling that he abused his authority by undermining confidence in the countrys electoral system. Bolsonaro has been under house arrest since Aug. 5. Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who oversees the case, said Bolsonaro violated precautionary measures by spreading content through his three lawmaker sons. Last week, De Moraes eased the restrictions, allowing unrestricted family visits. The case has gripped Brazil as it navigates a trade dispute with the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolsonaro has received support from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has called the prosecution a witch hunt and linked his decision to impose a 50% tariff on Brazilian imports to Bolsonaros legal troubles. Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet submitted his final arguments in July, citing extensive evidence of a conspiracy against Brazils democratic institutions. He said that includes handwritten notes, digital files, message exchanges, and spreadsheets allegedly detailing the plot. ___ Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america Former Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro is seeking acquittal in his coup attempt trial, arguing the charges are based on "distorted interpretations," news site G1 reported on Wednesday. In a roughly 200-page closing statement, his lawyers said the accusations against him are the result of "distorted interpretations" of actions and statements taken out of context. Prosecutors accuse Bolsonaro of orchestrating a coup to overturn his 2022 election defeat to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a bid to "destroy the democratic legal order" in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolsonaro's lawyers rejected the charges, insisting he "never joined any alleged conspiracy" and that there is no reliable evidence linking him to the unrest or coup plans. They said the 70-year-old always defended democracy and never tried to block Lula from taking office. The right-wing ex-president, who is under house arrest for alleged violations of court-imposed restrictions, also accused the press of carrying out a "media massacre" and prejudging him. With closing arguments now submitted by both prosecutors and the defence, the trial enters its final stage. A verdict for Bolsonaro and his co-defendants is expected in the coming weeks. What was supposed to be a smooth trip to Los Angeles on Wednesday (Aug. 13) turned into a chaotic scene when an intoxicated Breeze Airways passenger began shouting racial slurs mid-air leading him to be restrained multiple times. The passenger, identified as 46-year-old Los Angeles resident David Leroy Carter, was taken into custody by Colorado police after officials say he became agitated roughly four hours into his flight from Norfolk, Virginia. Airline crew reportedly restrained Carter twice, but each time he managed to break free. He also allegedly hit a few passengers with a belt at one point. Breeze Flight MX704 was ultimately diverted to Grand Junction Airport in Colorado, according to NBC Los Angeles. Once on the ground, Carter was arrested and booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility before the FBI took over the case. The entire incident was caught on camera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TikTok footage captured the midair standoff as a flight attendant tried to restrain Carter with plastic zip ties. He shoved past her attempts and ignored her commands to sit down. Thats the last thing youre going to do to me, he yelled back, as she continued to yell, Stop! You need to sit down! Carter simply smirked and replied, No, maam. Things escalated when a fellow passenger stepped in. Without hesitation, a strong man scooped Carter up under the arms, carried him down the aisle and sat him right back in his seat. He then hit Carter with a sharp Sit your a** down as if he was talking to a child. See below. Thankfully, no major injuries were reported, though Breeze Airways confirmed one crew member and one passenger were checked for minor injuries. In a statement, the airline expressed gratitude for the quick action onboard, emphasizing their focus on supporting the crew, caring for their guests and getting everyone to their final destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 airline said. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) Williamson County residents have stepped up to learn CPR. Non-certification community CPR classes from the Franklin Fire Department are already full for this fall, but every February, Brentwood Fire & Rescues hosts classes on Friday nights in honor of Heart Awareness Month. According to the American Red Cross, immediate CPR can triple a persons chance of survival if they have out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Brentwood officials invite public input on potential changes to Old Smyrna Road Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the span of one year, the City of Brentwood recorded four citizen saves where a bystander giving CPR helped save someones life. Once the fire department got there, the patients were awake and talking, Scott Barnes, Lieutenant and EMS coordinator with Brentwood Fire & Rescue, told News 2. Last summer, News 2 covered a Brentwood pickleball player who survived cardiac arrest because a bystander gave chest compressions and used an AED before EMTs arrived. Since then, BFD said thereve been three more citizen saves: On September 12, 2024, a bystander gave CPR and saved a citizen along Concord Road. On December 7th, 2024, a bystander saved a life by giving CPR at a big-box store. On April 9 of this year, CPR was performed on a citizen at a high school, which saved the persons life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnes said more than 1,000 residents in Brentwood have graduated from the departments free community CPR classes. The more people can learn it, the more you can make a difference. Seconds count when someone goes down in cardiac arrest, and if you can move that blood through the heart and into the brain during those seconds prior to electricity the AED getting there or the fire department and first responders getting there, the likelihood of them living or a return of spontaneous circulation is much higher, Barnes explained. Citizen tip helps lead Williamson County deputies to suspected burglars According to the American Heart Association, of the more than 356,000 Americans who experienced cardiac arrest outside of hospitals in 2023, only 40% received bystander CPR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I would love 100% of the world to have this training, Barnes added. If youd like to learn CPR or freshen up your skills, the American Red Cross offers CPR classes online in addition to Franklin and Brentwoods free community classes. To learn more about CPR classes anywhere in you, follow 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 WKRN News 2. Tokyo Fried Chicken has closed its doors in downtown. And a buzzy Mexican rooftop lounge along with a legacy L.A. brewery in the area said they would do the same, the latest in a string of businesses abandoning the city's core. Founded in 2013 in a Monterey Park shopping center before moving to a location in downtown L.A. in 2023, Tokyo Fried Chicken is known for its fried chicken and sides that borrow inspiration from Southern and Japanese cuisines. The fast-casual diner, which marinates its chicken in soy sauce, ginger and garlic, has been ranked on The Times annual 101 Best Restaurants in L.A. guide three years running. The company announced its last day of service, Aug. 10, in an Instagram post with less than a week's notice. When the day came, an hours-long line wrapped outside the building, with another hour wait for the piping hot chicken to arrive to the table once seated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was so amazing to see the turnout and all the love people have for the brand and for the food," said Elaine Yamanashi, who co-owns the business with her husband and chef, Kouji Yamanashi. "That is what has kept us going every day." Elaine Yamanashi emphasized that the original plan was for the Olive Street location to be an expansion from the Monterey Park location, where she said many customers made the fried chicken joint part of their weekly routine. Ultimately, with construction and permitting delays downtown they signed a lease mere months before the pandemic started coupled with staffing shortages in Monterey Park, the couple decided to go all in on launching the downtown location before resuming service in Monterey Park. "Could we even run both at the same time? We didn't think we could," Yamanashi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: An old-school Chinatown market tried hanging on. Assaults, raids, gentrification proved too much The downtown location had its perks: the Yamanashis' ultra-crispy chicken found a broader clientele, and a larger kitchen allowed for increased service hours. But the pandemic had also changed customer eating habits. "We built our place for people to sit down and dine, but the majority of our food was being taken out," said Yamanashi. A lack of parking and outdoor dining patio also led to decreased visibility in that location. Tokyo Fried Chicken is also a victim of broader industry challenges, including a downturn in business following the writers' and actors strikes, the Palisades and Eaton fires and most recently, immigration raids and protests that scared diners away from downtown. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "By last October, people were starting to come out again and it was better," Yamanashi said. "Then most of this year has been filled with very challenging issues along with increased costs along with slim margins." "The things that were happening in the larger economy made us feel like, 'Oh man, we should scale back so we don't have to break ourselves to make it,'" she added. Fans of the restaurant are in mourning, with many on Instagram saying they've followed the restaurant since its days in the San Gabriel Valley. But Yamanashi isn't saying the concept is gone forever. "We're taking this time, not off, but to reflect," she said. "If we come back, we intend to come back intentionally and strategically to be able to survive long term in whatever location we find." LA Cha Cha Cha is known for its cocktails and mariscos-packed menu, including a tuna tostada. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times) LA Cha Cha Cha The sister restaurant to Mexico City-based Grupo Palmares' open-air hit Terraza Cha Cha Cha, LA Cha Cha Cha is known for its tacos, strong margaritas and stylish rooftop in the Arts District designed by architect Lena Kohl. The lush two-story space weathered the pandemic, writers' strike and January fires, but co-owner Alejandro Marin blames recent ICE raids and ensuing protests in downtown L.A. for a significant drop in customers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After June, it seemed like everyone was avoiding downtown, and we dont see tourists anymore, Marin told Eater LA, adding his team expected to remain open for "a couple of months, maybe three" before closing permanently. The group is also behind L.A. restaurants Loreto and Za Za Za in Frogtown and Santa Canela in Highland Park. LA Cha Cha Cha, 812 E. Third St., Los Angeles, CA, 90013. Read more: Notable L.A. restaurant closures spiked in 2024. Here's the grim tally Angel City Brewery Angel City Brewery recently announced it is slated to close at the termination of its lease in April 2026, according to a statement from its parent company Boston Beer Co., best known for its Samuel Adams brand. Its on-site sister taproom Truly LA, which serves the brand's hard seltzer, will only provide Friday and Saturday service by the end of the year, with the area converting to overflow and rental space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our coworkers are our top priority, and were making this move gradually to give our people the opportunity to do whats best for them," said the statement. "The goal is to absorb as many Truly LA coworkers as possible into our Angel City Brewery team for the duration of the lease and avoid a significant impact to coworker shifts." Angel City Brewery was founded in 1997 by Michael Bowe in Culver City before moving to its current location, a three-story 1913 John A. Roebling building on the corner of Alameda Street and Traction Avenue, in 2011. Boston Beer acquired the company in 2012 and completely overhauled the menu during a boom in L.A.'s craft beer industry. Now, the company says, "the brand no longer lines up with our long-term growth strategy," adding that its focus is "growing our core, national brands." However, the company notes that the brewery has been "doing well" and is earnestly looking for a buyer. "We believe there is potential for this brand to succeed outside of Boston Beer as a strong local offering, and well be putting significant efforts behind selling Angel City so the brand can continue to live on," said the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company confirmed it has no plans to close its other taprooms. Angel City Brewery, 216 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90012, (213) 622-1261 Sign up for our Tasting Notes newsletter for restaurant reviews, Los Angeles food-related news and more. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Britain and France have handed victory to Hamas by announcing their intention to recognise a Palestinian state, the US ambassador to Israel has said. Mike Huckabee, who was appointed by Donald Trump in April, said that both countries had hung [Israel] out to dry by announcing their intentions in public. Those public declarations by the French and the Brits ended negotiations with Hamas. Just destroyed it. That was it. That was the end of it, he said.Because they [Hamas] looked at it and said, Were winning. This is great. The result of Oct 7 is going to be a Palestinian state. Hamas fighters, pictured overseeing the handover of the bodies of four Israeli hostages in February, rejoiced at the UK and French announcements, said Mike Huckabee - Ali Jadallah/Anadolu via Getty Images Mr Huckabee told the Times of Israel that it was perfectly acceptable to be in disagreement with the policies of any government, but he accused the UK and France of turning their back on Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I regularly disagree with some of those governments. But I wouldnt turn my back on them when theyre under siege. You dont do that to friends. You just dont do that to your friends, he added. And if you do have a disagreement with them, you bring it to them quietly. You dont hang them out to dry in a public forum. Emmanuel Macron, the French president, last month announced his countrys intention to recognise Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly next month, making it the first G7 nation to do so. Days later, Sir Keir Starmer said the UK would recognise the state of Palestine at the same time unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcements have been followed by similar declarations by Canada and Australia. The moves have been heavily criticised by the US, with Marco Rubio, the secretary of state, labelling plans to recognise Palestine as largely meaningless. Its symbolic, and theyre doing it primarily for one reason, and that is their internal politics, their domestic politics, Mr Rubio said earlier this week. In the UK, in France, in many parts of Europe and Ireland, for a long time their domestic politics have turned anti-Israel or whatever it may be, and theyre getting a lot of domestic pressure to do something. Palestinians returning to the ruins of the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza after the January ceasefire between Israel and Hamas - Omar al-Qattaa/AFP via Getty Images Mr Macron was also criticised by the US president for his decision, with Mr Trump dismissing the plans outright. What he says doesnt matter, Mr Trump told reporters at the White House. Hes a very good guy. I like him, but that statement doesnt carry weight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US president appeared more conciliatory when it emerged Sir Keir would recognise Palestine. Im not going to take a position, I dont mind him taking a position, he said during a visit to Scotland late last month. Mr Huckabee, a vociferous supporter of Mr Trump, has been particularly critical of Sir Keir since taking up his post in Israel in April. Speaking earlier this month, he said Britain would have lost World War II had Sir Keir been in charge of the country at the time. So Israel is expected to surrender to Hamas & feed them even though Israeli hostages are being starved? he wrote on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did the UK surrender to the Nazis and drop food to them? If you had been PM, then the UK would be speaking German! he said. His comments came after the Prime Minister ramped up his criticism of Israel, condemning plans to take over Gaza City as wrong. 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. Britain is losing sight of Christian history, according to an atheist historian who once mocked believers for worshipping dead people. Prof Alice Roberts, an academic, television presenter and author, told BBC History Magazine that Christianity is a compelling and important part of our culture and warned that, in an increasingly secular society, we risk losing part of Christian history. The 52-year-old, a confirmed atheist who is professor of public engagement in science at the University of Birmingham and a patron of Humanists UK, made the comments ahead of the publication of her new book about the collapse of the Roman Empire and the rise of Christianity in the West. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, she had previously made controversial comments about religion on social media. On Good Friday in 2021, she wrote on X: Just a little reminder today. Dead people dont come back to life. The comments made to her 415,000 followers sparked debate online. Some criticised the remarks as petty, pointless and the cheapest kind of posing, while others mocked her for confirming the definition of a miracle. In December 2023, she caused further controversy after claiming that schools run by the Church of England run an indoctrination programme, adding: We really dont need more faith schools in this country. In an interview to promote the book, which will be published at the end of the month, she said: I think Christianity is a compelling and important part of our culture. As society becomes more secular and biblical knowledge declines, we risk losing sight of Christian history. Alice Roberts chats with historian Nil Tekgul while filming Ottoman Empire by Train in Ankara, Turkey - Bossanova/Channel 4 She added that there was still a tendency to obscure Christianitys early history and instead treat it as if it appeared fully formed, and that claims of the religions radical uniqueness are often overstated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the latest available polling by YouGov, almost half of British people (49 per cent) now hold a negative view of the Church of England. In November, Justin Welby was forced to announce his resignation as Archbishop of Canterbury after a report concluded that he had failed to prevent child sex abuse. An independent review found that abhorrent abuse by John Smyth, an evangelical Christian, could have been exposed four years earlier if the Archbishop had contacted the authorities. The latest findings of the 2021 census show that Christians now account for less than half of England and Wales population for the first time in census history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Office for National Statistics results show that 46.2 per cent of the population (27.5 million people) described themselves as Christian in 2021. This marks a 13.1 percentage point decrease from 59.3 per cent (33.3 million people) in 2011. The census data also show that every major religion except for Christianity increased over the 10-year period. 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. Like the Hoover, the washing machine has done much to ease the grind of housework in the West. Now, a hand-powered version aims to change lives across the developing world. Today at least five billion people, or 60 per cent of the worlds population, still wash their clothes by hand: a chore that takes up on average 20 hours every week, and falls overwhelmingly on the shoulders of women and girls. In much of sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America, owning or even having access to a washing machine, which requires both electricity and plumbing, remains rare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A British non-profit is trying to change that. Navjot Sawhney, a former Dyson engineer, founded The Washing Machine Project in 2019 with the aim of revolutionising housework in the developing world. The idea was born in a small South Indian village, where Sawhney volunteered for a year. He often watched his neighbour, a young mother called Divya, hunched over a bucket, scrubbing clothes for her family an exhausting and arduous process that took up hours of her day. Every woman and girl in the village was doing the same thing, he told The Telegraph. Hours and hours of hand washing denied them opportunities to work, study, and rest, its physically exhausting. Its time consuming. It causes skin irritation, chronic back pain and other health problems, Mr Sawhney said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The current solutions dont work electric washing machines are for people who have frequent and non disruptive access to electricity and water. His solution: a light-weight, flat-pack washing machine that can be shipped anywhere in the world, is manually powered, and requires no electricity or running water whatsoever to operate. The machine, named Divya after the woman whose labour inspired it, is designed to be assembled rapidly and by anyone in true Ikea form with just the included spanner and Allen key. Its set up on rubber wheels, meaning it can be moved around a village, refugee camp, or hospital easily and shared between families that need it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Costing less than $200 to build, each machine is given free to its users and funded through corporate donations and grants from the British government. Crucially, its been designed to use around 20 litres of water per load roughly half of what is used to wash the same quantity of clothes. Cutting down the amount of water required has two important benefits. Firstly, women need to carry less of it from lakes or rivers or communal taps, and the water saved in the more efficient process can instead be used for other purposes like cooking, drinking or bathing. The Washing Machine Project has now shipped the Divya to more than 50,000 people in 13 countries from rural villages in India and Pakistan to refugee camps and hospitals in Gaza, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It works much like a normal washing machine. First, the user adds water, clothes and detergent into the steel drum and closes the lid. Using a manual hand-crank, they then rotate the drum for around two minutes. After that, they wait 15 minutes to let the clothes soak before repeating the process again. If any stubborn stains remain, the lid can be opened and the clothes rubbed against the built-in scrubbing board attached to the top of the drum. The water is then drained off and replaced with fresh water for rinsing, followed by another two minutes of gentle rotation. Finally, the water is released through a small drainage tap at the front of the machine and the clean clothes removed to hang and dry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hans Rosling, the Swedish statistician and champion of development, once called washing machines the greatest invention of the industrial revolution. It is hard to overstate the transformative role played by the washing machine and other devices designed to make housework easier, and there is a strong correlation between the uptake of these technologies and the proportion of women in the workforce. Mr Sawhney says his machines are now having a similar effect in communities around the world. Women using the Divya report spending 75 per cent less time on laundry each week, and the charity estimates theyve saved women a total of 17 million hours over the last five years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We visited a woman called Anjali, who runs a tea shop in South India and was given a Divya, he said. She used to walk to the local pond every two days the same pond where people bathe, defecate, and wash their clothes because she didnt have enough clean water at home. Each trip meant about three hours of scrubbing laundry in contaminated water. Now, with her machine, she can wash her clothes at home using the limited water she has because she needs so much less. Shes regained hours each week, which she now spends running and growing her business, he said. Hand washing clothes is a chore that takes up on average 20 hours every week - The Washing Machine Project In areas where security is poor and women are at heightened risk, the benefits have been felt even more acutely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example in the DRC, gender based violence as women travel and from a water source is a big worry. So if we can cut that time down spent at the water source, then we are hearing it helps to decrease rates of [sexual violence], said Mr Sawhney. Plans are currently underway to set up a factory in India to build 10,000 washing machines a year for distribution across South Asia. Mr Sawhney also hopes to expand the charitys offerings, and develop more products that tackle overlooked household burdens. Whether its cooking, cleaning, lighting, air conditioning, refrigeration, we see theres a big gap in how people live in developing countries and how they can access these items, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its about dignity, time, and opportunity. It frees women and girls up to pursue activities that they want to do, whether its education, work, studying, learning, reading, writing, or just simply resting and making choices over their own lives. Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Fire crews battled two brush fires in northern Los Angeles County on Thursday the King fire, which ignited near Pyramid Lake in the early morning, and the Hawk fire, which erupted in Acton around 3 p.m., threatening structures and prompting evacuation orders. The wind-whipped Hawk fire began near Treman Drive and Elisa Road in the hills of Acton and spread to nearly 300 acres within two hours, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. By 8 p.m., the fire had blackened 400 acres, but an evacuation order that had been issued in the community of Mission and the Ritter Ranch area had been downgraded to a warning. By Friday morning, and the blaze was 42% contained. Meanwhile, near Gorman, crews continued to combat the 577-acre King fire, which began just after 1 a.m. Thursday east of the 5 Freeway near Smokey Bear Road and north of Pyramid Lake, according to Cal Fire. They started to get a handle on the blaze in the afternoon, and by Thursday night it was 40% contained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said the fire grew dangerously fast early Thursday, when winds were gusting at almost 30 mph, pushing the blaze south toward Vista Del Lago Road. Flames spread dramatically, destroying two unoccupied RVs and threatening to jump the 5 Freeway several times. Officials were forced to temporarily close all lanes of the freeway near the Grapevine at least twice. Evacuation warnings were issued for areas around Hungry Valley, Paradise Ranch, Gorman and the Pyramid Lake RV Park. The King fire sparked amid elevated fire conditions, with afternoon winds expected to hit up to 20 mph across the already parched chaparral-covered hills, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures around the fire were expected to reach into the low 90s Thursday, and relative humidity was forecast to drop below 20%, said Bryan Lewis, a meteorologist with the weather service based in Oxnard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fire trucks on Thursday lined the freeway's closed northbound lanes as helicopters overhead continued with water and retardant drops. Times staff writer Joseph Serna contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Bryan Kohberger made several attempts to contact his mother and father mere hours after his brutal murders of the Idaho Four. University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, Ethan Chapin, 20, and Madison Mogen, 21, were believed to have been killed around 4 a.m. on November 13, 2022. Roughly two hours later, Kohberger, 30, called his mother, Maryann Kohberger. The first call went through at 6:13 a.m. that morning, according to digital forensics expert Heather Barnhart, who spoke with People about her findings. When she did not answer, the now-convicted killer immediately placed another call to his father at 6:14 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was not uncommon, as Barnhart revealed he had a history of calling one parent and then quickly calling the other if they didnt answer. He would go back and forth texting: Father, why did mother not respond? Why is she not answering the phone? she told the outlet. Kohberger called his mother again at 6:17 a.m. and they spoke for 36 minutes before hanging up. But less than two hours later, he called his mother again and they talked for nearly one hour. Its been reported that Kohberger returned to the scene of the crime around 9 a.m. that morning, meaning that he was likely driving back to his victims shared Idaho home during that conversation with his mom. Later that day, he talked with his mother for two minutes around 4 p.m., then they had another conversation that began at 5:53 p.m. and lasted for 96 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear what they spoke about for any of these conversations. Kohberger was not arrested in connection with the murders until December 30, 2022. He initially pleaded not guilty, but later admitted his guilt as a part of a plea agreement. On July 23, he was sentenced to serve the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole. (NewsNation) The prison where Bryan Kohberger is serving his life sentence for killing four Idaho students says he is safe despite his complaints about inmates taunting him since his arrival. We are aware of Kohbergers complaints about what he considers taunting, the Idaho Department of Corrections told NewsNation in a statement. Bryan Kohberger likely in victims home before murders: Prosecutor Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison. Bryan Kohberger is housed alone in a cell, and IDOC security staff maintain a safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody. Bryan Kohbergers life in prison NewsNation learned that Kohberger was being tormented by his fellow inmates, who are taking turns shouting through the air ducts all day and all night to keep him from sleeping or hearing himself think during the day. The inmates apparently were waiting for him, said Chris McDonough, director of the Cold Case Foundation and a retired homicide detective. They are now making his life absolutely miserable. Theyre utilizing the vent system. Theyre kicking the doors. Theyre taunting him. And theyre basically torturing him through using psychology, he said. And my goodness, hes complaining. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger, who was sentenced to life in prison after accepting a plea deal, is being housed in solitary confinement outside of Boise. He was moved to the J Block one week after being sentenced. That block of the prison houses the worst of the worst outside of being on death row. Bryan Kohberger police application discussed internally after murders Its really a prison within a prison, said McDonough. The guards, the most they can do is write it down or tell him, Hey, theres nothing we can do. Youre not in physical harm. Hes in an isolation situation. Those around him cant get to him physically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inside the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, Kohberger and other inmates spend 23 hours a day inside their cells. The type of housing is meant for prisoners who could be injured by inmates in the general population or who could hurt others. Prisoners get an hour outside each day in a courtyard surrounded by cement. Some inmates are placed in cages in the outdoor area because they are so dangerous. Bryan Kohberger avoids death penalty with plea deal Kohberger accepted a plea deal weeks before he was set to go to trial for the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. He killed the college students inside their off-campus apartment in Moscow on Nov. 13, 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deal took the death penalty off the table in exchange for a guilty plea. The former graduate student was handed four life sentences last month. NewsNation got a rare look inside the Idaho supermax prison where Bryan Kohberger will spend the rest of his life. Cells inside the Idaho Maximum Security Institution. Inmates spend 23 hours a day inside their cells, with food and water fed through small slots in their doors. They are allowed to sit at tables outside their cell but are either cuffed to the table or placed inside a cage, where they can use tablets for visitation. Most inmates can buy a tablet to have in their cell for $100 that contains music, email, and movies, and they can also buy a TV, which has basic cable. Brian Entin visited the cellblock and saw inmates doing something called fishing, which is when they use strings from blankets or a T-shirt to send notes under their door. Prisoners get an hour outside each day in a courtyard surrounded by cement, but some inmates are placed in cages in the outdoor area because they are so dangerous. An outdoor cage at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. A builder accused of defrauding customers of more than 2m denies his business was nothing but a pyramid scheme. Mark Killick, 56, from Paulton in Somerset, denies 46 counts of fraud against homeowners across the west between December 2019 and November 2021 and is on trial at Bristol Crown Court. Customers allege they paid thousands of pounds for work that was barely started before Mr Killick disappeared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During cross-examination on Wednesday, he was accused of recruiting customers into his business and using their deposits to pay for previous jobs, while at the same time creaming off money for himself. James Tucker, prosecuting, asked the defendant if he was marketing his company, TD Cole LTD, as a large company that was skilled and reliable, when in reality it had no employees, no business assets and no premises. "You gave a very attractive proposition to clients - one that you had all the trades necessary for the job and two that it was a fixed price quote," Mr Tucker said. "It had all that," Mr Killick replied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Is it in fact the case that you knew that the way you were running TD Cole the company would inevitably crash and leave customers out of pocket?" Mr Tucker asked. Mr Killick said the company had gone into liquidation due to factors beyond his control, and that it had cash flow problems. "The reason you had a cash flow problem was because you were running it as a fraud. A pyramid scheme," Mr Tucker said. "That's completely mental," Mr Killick said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: "We were operating the same as most other businesses in the UK. You are looking at a tiny snapshot." Mark Killick denies he ran his company like a pyramid scheme [BBC] Mr Tucker said: "You were using the rest of your customers' money to go into your pocket." Mr Killick responded: "All of the money coming in was sales and and the money going out was business expenses and yes I did get wages like anybody else." Mr Killick did not answer when asked where all the accounts setting out the company's assets and liabilities were, or if any such documents had ever existed. "Is the reason there's no full documents because all you need to run a Ponzi scheme is to keep selling and to put off any costs for as long as possible before the company inevitably goes pop?" Mr Tucker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's no basis to the figures you're saying. It's just a load of rubbish," Mr Killick said. The defendant claimed he intended to complete all of the jobs booked, and said they were halted due to factors beyond his control. He alleged customers were being "unreasonable" in their demands and said he never set out to defraud anyone. Jurors have been told Mr Killick served time in prison after pleading guilty to fraud charges in 2014, and had previously pleaded guilty to further fraud charges in both 2008 and 2009. The trial continues. More on this story Related internet links The Brief Kevin Durant is collaborating with Houston rapper Bun B to help Central Texas flood victims. A limited-time "Easy Money Meal" and t-shirt will be sold, with proceeds going to flood relief. The collaboration is to help flood victims in Kerr County and marks Durant's return to Texas as a Houston Rocket. HOUSTON, Texas - Kevin Durant, now a Houston Rocket, is partnering with Bun B in a collaboration to benefit Central Texas flooding victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The partnership, which comes as Durant prepares for his new season with the Houston Rockets, goes beyond just food. It's a philanthropic effort to support the community. Proceeds from the KD and Trill Burgers collaboration will go directly to Texas Hill Country flood relief. KD x Trill Burgers Collab What we know Port Arthur native and rapper Bun B, co-founder of the Houston restaurant Trill Burgers, announced the collaboration Wednesday over Instagram. Bun B says Durant, a former UT Longhorn, wanted his intro to the Houston Rockets to be meaningful, and the pair decided to launch a new meal and t-shirt to go towards the Texas cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The collaboration includes a special-edition "Easy Money" T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds from both the burger and the merchandise will be donated to the Texas Flood Relief Fund to aid victims of recent July 4 flooding. When can I get the KD burger? The Easy Money Meal is an homage to KD's "basic style of burger" order, and will be available starting on Friday, Aug. 15. This burger is a reflection of Durant's simple tastes, featuring a classic Trill Burgers patty with ketchup, mayonnaise, pickles, and American cheese. The limited-time collaboration features a custom menu item called the "Easy Money Burger," named after Durant's famous nickname. The meal will be available for one week only, Bun B says. The meal can be ordered at both the Houston and Spring locations of the restaurant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trill Burgers and Kevin Durant Easy Money t-shirt will be available for pre-sale through the Trill Burgers website. Texas Hill Country flood relief What you can do Many businesses and organizations are providing resources for those impacted by the flooding. FOX has collected a list of ways those affected can receive help, and what others can do to assist them. Take a look at the resource list here. Read more: The Source Information in this story came from Bun B's Instagram account. The Brief Burglars broke into a Kingston Starbucks by tunneling through a bathroom wall from a vacant shop next door. The thieves ransacked the store, targeting cash drawers and attempting to access a safe. Kitsap County Sheriff's deputies are investigating, but no suspect information is available yet. KINGSTON, Wash. - Kitsap County Sheriff's deputies are investigating after burglars broke into a Starbucks by tunneling through a bathroom wall. What we know The burglary happened around 3:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 8 at the Starbucks along Northeast State Highway 104 and Miller Bay Road Northeast in Kingston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies quickly determined that the thieves tunneled into the business by breaking a hole through a vacant shop next door. The burglars ransacked the Starbucks, going through cash drawers, cutting computer cables, and attempting to break into a safe. What we don't know No suspect information is available yet. Starbucks employees are still calculating the cost of losses and damages. The Source Information in this story came from the Kitsap County Sheriff's Office. MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE 3 Seattle-area sandwich shops make Yelp's Top 100 list 'Its a zoo': Frustrations grow over Seattle's new bus-only lanes Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Seattle's 'paddle rave' new summer hit on Lake Union 'Presence, not activity': New tool helps track ICE agents across U.S. Art mural defaced for second time in Seattle's Chinatown-International District To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter. Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news. A jury on Wednesday convicted a Burnsville man of first- and second-degree murder for slicing his 82-year-old mothers throat in their home and then dismembering her body and dumping her remains as he drove west of the Twin Cities. Troy Michael Mittenness, 58, admitted to police that he had killed his mother, Sandra Viola Mitteness, with a kitchen knife as she slept on June 2, 2022, because he had spent all of her $200,000 and she was becoming suspicious, according to prosecutors. Jurors reached the verdict after about nine hours of deliberations, following a seven-day trial before Dakota County District Judge Richelle Wahi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mitteness faces life in prison at sentencing, which is set for Aug. 19. Mitteness was charged with second-degree intentional murder a year after the killing, when his mothers death was discovered while Burnsville police were investigating reports of mail theft. They had discovered some of the money from the thefts was deposited into an account belonging to Sandra Mitteness. A grand jury returned a first-degree murder indictment in December. Prosecutors told jurors in the states closing arguments Tuesday that Mitteness had planned the killing after his mother asked him about the $200,000 in her savings account and safe deposit box. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They presented at trial more than 200 exhibits as evidence, including bank records, his Google searches about killing an elderly woman and credit card receipts showing he bought a shower liner, heavy-duty rubber gloves, hatchet and duct tape just days before the killing. All things that would have to do with planning to murder and dismember your mother, Assistant Dakota County Attorney Beth Beaman told jurors during the states closing arguments. Suspicious deposit, obituary Police in January 2023 received a report from a woman who said that after she had dropped off a $125 MoneyGram into a mailbox at the Burnsville post office, the name was changed to Sandra Mitteness and from one financial institution to another. When police asked Troy Mitteness about his mothers whereabouts, so they could inquire with her about the deposit, he gave varying accounts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police searched the townhome regarding the mail theft. They found an obituary for Sandra Mitteness that said she died June 14, 2022, though the funeral home told police they hadnt provided post-mortem care. Officers talked to several family members, who reported that Troy Mitteness told them his mother fell down the stairs and was in a hospital in June 2022. Investigators learned that Mitteness sold his mothers vehicle to a relative after he said she died. The relative said Mitteness wanted to get rid of the car quickly, even offering the car for free, the criminal complaint says. The relative sold the car to another person and police found the new owner, who allowed officers to examine it. Police found preliminary indications of the presence of blood in the trunk, and the same at Mitteness home on the stairs, and on a mattress and box spring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with investigators, Mitteness said his mother wanted to check on her CDs and her safety deposit box, adding: I couldnt have that happen, according to a court document filed this month by the prosecution. He said he researched how to kill an elderly person without poison and the best spots to stab someone to make their death quick and painless. He said he thought, and thought, and thought. A couple days before, I put a shower curtain under her bed. Brought a huge knife up to my room. Debated, debated, debated. That early morning, like at 3:00 in the morning, went in there and slit her throat. The next morning, he dragged his mothers body into the bathroom, then into the tub. He kept her there for days. He said he pulled her down the steps and into the garage and started cutting her up, the court document says. He said he put her remains in plastic tote bins and headed toward Appleton, Minn., discarding some body parts by throwing them in ditches as he drove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he put the tote bins near a dumpster at an abandoned rest stop on Minnesota 7 near Willmar. Officers went to the location and the property owners reported it was previously a rest stop and, after they bought it, they found two bins behind the shipping container and moved them to a burn pile. Officers found tote bins in the burn pile, and collected them as evidence. Body not found Related Articles St. Paul Brewing sues city over Hamms site rezoning plan Cottage Grove man sentenced to 8 years in 25-year-old sexual-abuse case Little Canada man sentenced for strangling woman in Eagan hotel room Meteorologist Wren Clair files sexual harassment suit against former employer KSTP Blaine man found guilty of bilking Medicaid program out of more than $7M Mitteness waived his right to testify at his trial. His attorney, assistant Dakota County public defender Timothy Miles, told jurors Tuesday that, despite the confession, there is no body to prove that his mother is dead and that he murdered her. During the states closings, Beaman said that officers were unable to find any of Sandra Mitteness remains in July 2023. The officers did try hard based on what he told them to find her, she said. But were talking about over a year later. Burnsville man found guilty of killing, dismembering his 82-year-old mother originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A Burnsville man has been found guilty of killing and dismembering his 82-year-old mother. A jury found Troy Michael Mitteness, 58, guilty of one count of premeditated 1st-degree murder and one count of intentional 2nd-degree murder in Dakota County Court on Wednesday. He had previously indicted by a grand jury in the death of his mother, Sandra Viola Mitteness, who he fatally stabbed on June 2, 2022 with a large kitchen knife at his home on Riverwood Drive. He initially tried to cover up her killing before he eventually confessed. Troy Michael Mitteness via Dakota County Jail. Mitteness told police that he had spent all of her money and that she was becoming suspicious. Mitteness told investigators he "researched online how to kill an elderly person without poison" and decided "to stab her while she was in her bed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also reportedly looked up the "best spots" to stab someone to make their death quick and painless. Days after the killing, Mitteness dismembered his mothers body and placed her remains in large plastic tote bins he had in his garage. He then discarded her remains from his moving vehicle into road ditches as he drove from Burnsville to Appleton, Minnesota. Mitteness sentencing is scheduled for Tuesday, and he is expected to be sentenced to life in prison. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. A Buzz flight en route to London was escorted by two German fighter jets after a potential security threat was reported to the crew. The plane was flying from Sofia, Bulgaria, to London Stansted on Monday, 11 August. Flight FR9962 took off from the Bulgarian capital at 9.30pm for a three-hour flight to London. The flight was operated by Buzz, a Polish airline that operates under the Ryanair Group. However, around halfway into the journey, the Boeing 737 swerved from its flight path. Data from Flightradar shows that the plane made a sharp turn and skirted the border of the Czech Republic, before flying through Austria into Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previous flight paths for the same route show that the plane usually flies over Austria and into the Czech Republic, then into Germany. The Bulgarian Ministry of Transport and Communication said that the aircraft was denied entry into Czech airspace and rerouted via German airspace, where it was escorted by German Air Force fighter jets. The Independent has contacted the Air Navigation Services of the Czech Republic for comment. In a statement to The Independent, Ryanair said: Buzz, the Polish charter airline, was advised of a possible security issue on a Buzz flight FR9962 from Sofia to London Stansted on Monday, 11 August last. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This issue was quickly resolved and de-escalated, which allowed the flight [to] continue on to London Stansted, where it landed on time, and passengers disembarked normally. The flight landed on time at Stansted, arriving at the airport at 10.28pm. Bulgarias Ministry of Transport and Communications told The Independent that the security issue related to a caller to the national emergency hotline alleging that a Palestinian passenger on board Ryanair flight FR-9962 (Boeing 737), operating from Sofia to London Stansted with 174 people on board, intended to do bad things. It was later confirmed by a Border Police check that no Palestinian citizens were among the passengers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The caller was identified as a Bulgarian citizen from Plodiv, and his former wife and their two daughters were passengers on the flight. When the call was first reported to the national emergency hotline, the Coordination Centre at Sofia airport and the Air Traffic Management Authority were immediately informed. At the time of the report, the aircraft was already in Serbian airspace over the Novi Sad area, and the Air Traffic Management Authority in Serbia was notified. The aircraft was denied entry into Czech airspace and rerouted via German airspace, where it was escorted by German Air Force fighter jets, the ministry spokesperson confirmed. No security-related incidents were recorded in the past 24 hours on the territory of Sofia airport, they added. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast The wait is over for thousands of pupils across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Grades for A-levels, T-levels, BTec Nationals and some Level 3 qualifications have been released. Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, top A-level grades have risen - with 28.3% of all grades marked at A* or A, up from 27.8% last year - while a record number of students have been accepted into their first-choice university. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambridge Maths School, a specialist sixth-form college, opened in 2023 and celebrated its first set of A-level results. In total, 43 students at the state-funded school received their A-level results, with 53% of students getting an A* grade. 'I hope I can inspire younger girls' Michela Castello-Lamb (in the yellow shirt) wants to inspire more girls into learning maths [Cambridge Maths School] That first cohort included Michela Castello-Lamb, from Cambridge, who achieved four A*s and is now going to study maths at the University of Bath. "I've known from an early age that maths was the area I wanted to focus on, and I really hope I can inspire younger girls to stick with the subject," she said. 'Nerve-racking' Husna, from Jack Hunt School in Peterborough, received A*, A and B grades and will be heading to University of Nottingham. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was nerve-racking to open the envelope because it was two years of hard work but I'm glad it is over," she said. Fellow Jack Hunt student Anton said he was "buzzing" with his triple A* grades. "I already saw online that I was accepted at the university of my choice, but I have got better grades than I was expecting," he said. "I am going to study maths at Queens' College in Cambridge." He said he would be playing board games with his mum to celebrate his success. 'A good opportunity' Isaac has secured an opportunity with an accounting firm in Cambridge [Tom Jackson/BBC] Isaac, also from Jack Hunt School, received A, B and C grades and is choosing an apprenticeship with an accountancy firm as his next move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is exciting. I have two weeks until I start, so not long. But it's good opportunity to take," he said. Jon Hebblethwaite, head teacher at Jack Hunt, called it a "huge day for the students". He said: "We are here to support you, whatever happens, and it will be fine." 'Happy and relieved' Vinny was the highest-scoring student at Longsands Academy, St Neots, with three A* and an A, and will be studying physics at the University of Warwick. Eva, who got three Bs, is preparing to attend the University of Sheffield to study physical education. "I want to be a PE teacher for secondary school. I am very happy and relieved," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Waiting for results, I was feeling sick but the feeling is very much gone now." Mia outperformed her expectations with a two A* grades and an A. She is heading to the University of Oxford to study biochemistry. "I am interested in treating diseases," she said. Some students at Longsands said they were planning to go to the local pub to celebrate. 'Dream come true' Mum Amber Unwin says she is "proud" of son Ollie's achievements [Amber Unwin] Ollie Unwin, a pupil at Ormiston Bushfield Academy in Peterborough, said it was a "dream come true" after attaining a place at the University of Oxford to study biology. He got A grades in biology, chemistry and mathematics. "It was a feeling I have never felt before," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dennis Kirwan, principal at the school, said: "This cohort has embraced every challenge with maturity and purpose, and their results are a testament to that commitment." Follow Peterborough news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. More on this story Related internet links Every few months, Bisa Hall gets a phone call about a young man she met in college. He was tall and handsome. He liked to party, and he could command a Florida A&M common room. Hed chosen a school a thousand miles from home on purpose but still called his mother. It was 1996, and the students fell in love in that early undergrad way when youre trying to figure yourself and someone else out simultaneously. When she was barely 21, Hall married him. By then, she said, their romantic flame had burned out. She needed Florida residency to continue her studies affordably, and marriage was the solution. They wore sweatpants to the courthouse. Despite being broken up, they stayed married on paper for more than three years, then divorced. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But marriage and divorce records stay public, and Hall didnt marry just anyone. She married the man who is now U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, the Republican front-runner to become the next governor of Florida. The calls she gets today are from reporters, political operatives and private investigators. They ask her about their time living together. About Donalds marijuana arrest. About a later felony arrest, which Donalds says came after a young woman offered him $1,000 to use his debit card. The woman intended to overdraw the account. Donalds said yes. Hall cant help but laugh when the callers ask if she still has any paperwork related to Donalds charges. Even if Donalds had shown political promise 25 years ago and he didnt would you keep your exs criminal records for a quarter century? Whether Hall likes it or not, the phone is going to keep ringing. Her ex-husband is one of the most prominent Black voices in the Republican Party. At a time when Black voters overwhelmingly choose Democrats,Donalds has President Donald Trumps endorsement to be Floridas next governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Donalds is successful, the man who now represents Collier and Lee counties in Congress could become the first Black conservative governor in U.S. history. In an interview with the Times, Donalds described the moments that set him on his current path. His second arrest was his nadir, he said. It was also pivotal. Soon after, he found God and motivation. He said hes been on a mission of self-actualization ever since. Everybodys flawed. Everybody has frailties, Donalds said. A relationship with God has been about chasing your best self, really trying to be the best version of you. Those who knew him back in the day, like Hall, arent sure what to make of the man Donalds has turned into. Neither are voters: A July poll showed that 40% of the Republican primary electorate has not heard of him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet Donalds ascent is undeniable. In 2024, Trump was rumored to be eyeing him for vice president. Hes gained national attention for wielding a particular brand of identity politics. As a Black conservative, he is simultaneously seen as a renegade and a spokesperson. Donalds political life is centered on the story he tells about himself. Its about a kid from Brooklyn who had an honest-to-goodness political revelation. How far he climbs will depend on whether voters buy it. Byron and Erika Donalds When Erika Lees met Byron Donalds around 2000, he was trying to turn his life around. He was in the middle of the legal saga over the alleged bribe he took for his debit card. Hoping for a reset, he transferred to Florida State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that point, I just had to look myself in the mirror and promise to never be that person again. Be a better man going forward, Donalds said. Lees could relate to his struggle. Donalds didnt grow up with his father around; Lees parents declared bankruptcy, then divorced when she was a teen. Both watched their single mothers struggle to provide. But Lees had figured out her path years before. She didnt want to grind paycheck to paycheck like her mother. She wanted to make it in business. If Donalds wanted to keep up, he had to move at her speed. At FAMU, Donalds had a light course load and little motivation. At FSU, he attended an 8 a.m. intro to finance summer class with his new girlfriend. Together, they were active members of FSUs chapter of the Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity. Directionless when he first got to Tallahassee, Donalds began to envision a future in banking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To spoil the ending, Erika Lees is now Erika Donalds. In an interview, she downplayed her part in Donalds transformation, saying her husbands growth has largely been self-directed. But her influence on him, in college and beyond, seems undeniable. When Donalds was at his bottom, she was his ride to church, he remembered. There are moments when you get to choose your path. I think a big part of his path is the woman he married, said Hall, Donalds first wife. In the early days of their relationship, Donalds didnt tell Lees that he was already married. Lees didnt find out about Hall until she and Donalds started talking about marriage themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Needless to say, I was not happy, Erika Donalds remembered. Still, she saw a future with the young man with New York swagger, with whom conversation flowed so easily. In late 2002, Lees got pregnant. The two started planning a wedding. Family members told her after meeting Byron Donalds that theyd prayed shed choose a partner with his character. The couple wanted a ceremony before Lees started showing. Byron Donalds needed a divorce, and fast. He had no money. Hall paid for the expedited paperwork, she said. Hall said she expected Donalds to pay her back for half. She says he never did. An early interest in politics Byron Donalds first political speech lives online. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its 2010, and the footage is grainy. The videographer, simultaneously working to corral her two young sons, is Erika Donalds. Her husband, wearing a polo shirt tucked into jeans, delivers applause lines from the back of a pickup truck. Hes speaking at a Naples tea party rally. The federal government is spending money we dont have, Byron Donalds says. Future generations are going bankrupt before our eyes. He likens President Barack Obamas desire to tax the wealthy to class warfare. The Donaldses werent rich. They bought their first home in 2007, for about $360,000. (Today, they live in a house worth about $800,000.) Donalds had become interested in the workings of the federal government because of his job. His bosses at the investment firm CMG Life Services told him to get acquainted with U.S. financial policy, so he became a CNBC junkie. When the Great Recession hit, he began to question the political system that produced the kind of congressional leaders who thought of bailouts and burdensome regulations as solutions. In that 2010 speech, Donalds talks about discussing his politics with his mom. It wasnt always easy. When Donalds, then a registered Democrat, told his mother he wasnt voting for Obama in 2008, she didnt understand, he said in an April podcast interview. (His mother is now a registered Republican, he says.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months before the speech, Donalds had attended Toastmasters meetups to refine his speaking style. His wife got the invite initially, but Donalds wanted to go, too to develop his public speaking skills for work. His speeches were about his newfound passion, politics. Erika Donalds thought hed do well at a tea party rally. A local political leader offered Byron five minutes of speaking time. So here he was. In the middle of Byrons speech, someone asks Erika Donalds what her husband is running for. Hes not running for anything, she replies. A year later, he was. And then every election season since, at least someone in the Donalds household has. (Erika Donalds served a term on the Collier County school board between 2014 and 2018.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In interviews with the Tampa Bay Times, two associates said Donalds told them as early as 2013, before he was elected to anything, that he wanted to be governor. (Donalds says he has no memory of this.) But evidence suggests that Donalds politics genuinely transformed in the late 2000s, and that his views informed his ambition not the other way around. By the time of that speech in 2010, Donalds had launched a political blog, and his personal Facebook page had become a debate stage. College friends and family members would argue with him in the comments. Donalds would fire back missives hundreds of words long. The posts align with his views today, with a few exceptions. In December 2010, Donalds called for the federal government to end its oil drilling ban in the Gulf of Mexico. Florida voters have long opposed drilling near the states signature beaches. (In Congress, Donalds has co-sponsored a number of bills that would have extended the moratorium on Florida offshore drilling, his campaign noted.) In July of that same year, Donalds wrote, I would never call for mass deportation. That is illogical and unrealistic. Today, Donalds supports Trumps push to remove people who are living in the country illegally. Donalds campaign noted that the immigration landscape changed significantly after millions of people came into the country illegally under President Joe Biden. In 2010, Donalds codified his newfound beliefs: He registered as a Republican. A pivotal election Every politician has a pivotal campaign. To date, Donalds was the 2020 Republican congressional race. Caught in a heated nine-way primary for Congress, Donalds national brand was getting test-launched. Then a state representative, hed introduced himself to voters in an ad as everything the fake news media tells you doesnt exist: a strong, Trump-supporting, gun-owning, liberty-loving, pro-life, politically incorrect Black man. The well-funded political committee Club for Growth reportedly spent $2.5 million on his campaign. In the wake of the national reckoning over George Floyds murder in Minneapolis at the hands of police officers, Donalds had been interviewed on national TV. Hed preached calm, defended the institution of policing and called for peaceful protests. The morning of the August 2020 primary, someone sent a mass text falsely claiming Donalds was dropping out of the race. Incensed, Donalds took to Facebook, blaming his political opponents for lying to voters. The incident got national coverage, which likely helped Donalds. (His opponents have since accused Donalds of arranging the text to be sent himself, a claim for which there is no direct evidence.) He scraped by the crowded field with a 777-vote victory. In a deep red congressional district, the general election was a walkover. By his side, through it all, was one of Donalds best friends: Larry Wilcoxson. When the text about Donalds leaving the race went out, Wilcoxson was there to reassure a shaken supporter. When Donalds got to Congress, he made Wilcoxson his senior political adviser. As Donalds runs for governor, Wilcoxson, such a key figure in Donalds political orbit, might be his biggest liability. In 2006, years before he became close with Donalds, Wilcoxson, a former substitute teacher, was charged with three counts of alleged child molestation. He was never convicted. The Times reached an accuser of Wilcoxsons by phone, and she stood by her claims. The Times is not identifying her because she is the alleged victim of a sexual crime. The Times could not reach Wilcoxson for comment. In a podcast interview that aired in February, Wilcoxson denied sexually abusing any children. Donalds campaign said Wilcoxson is not a part of the 2026 team. Still, Donalds paid Wilcoxson about $134,000 during the 2024 cycle, according to the research website OpenSecrets well after Wilcoxsons past actions surfaced in news reports. Donalds in Washington A few months after the 2020 election, Donalds texted Liz Stephenson, a prominent Collier County Republican and early supporter of his, to ask for a meeting. He wanted Stephenson to host a fundraiser for Kevin McCarthy, the No. 1 Republican in the U.S. House, so Donalds scheduled a get-together with Stephenson for the afternoon of Feb. 1, 2021, according to text messages obtained by the Times. During that meeting, Donalds had his iPad open, Stephenson said. On the screen was a virtual hearing for a congressional committee Donalds belonged to. Stephenson left the talk disappointed in Donalds seeming lack of interest in his day job. I hire you to represent me, Stephenson said. Dont be, like, multitasking when youre just a freshman. Do something. Donalds campaign noted that Stephenson supports one of his former local political opponents. The truth is that Byron was laser-focused on shutting down Joe Bidens radical agenda, said Danielle Alvarez, Donalds senior campaign adviser. Stephenson is a part of the vocal faction of Florida Republicans who are unimpressed by Donalds. This group is perhaps led by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the popular Republican Donalds hopes to succeed. In February, DeSantis said that Donalds had not been a part of Floridas conservative victories, and he declined to endorse him for governor. (DeSantis could be holding back his endorsement for his wife, first lady Casey DeSantis, who is said to be mulling a run.) Donalds voting record in Congress has netted him one of the most conservative ratings of any House member by the nonpartisan congressional tracker GovTrack. In 2021, he voted not to certify Joe Bidens electoral victory. But in nearly five years, of the 139 bills Donalds has sponsored, one has become law. (Alvarez said Donalds fights hard for the Trump agenda in Washington, noting that he helped secure conservative votes for Trumps signature One Big Beautiful Bill Act.) More than policy wins, Donalds has built a national brand on conservative evangelism. He takes his message to media outlets conservative, liberal and indifferent. In the last two years, hes done interviews with the conservative Fox and Friends, the liberal Breakfast Club and ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith. Prominent conservatives have taken note. In 2023, he was briefly a candidate for House speaker after Republicans ousted McCarthy from the role. In 2024, he crisscrossed the country on behalf of Trump, hoping to sway Black men, a demographic coveted by the president. At campaign appearances, Donalds preached equal opportunity as a solution to poverty, using his biography to bolster his argument. His mom was the original school choice parent, he said, pulling him from failing New York public schools to give her son a better opportunity. Other poor kids should have that chance, he argued, and charter schools would offer it. (Erika Donalds runs a charter school management company, and billionaire school choice supporter Jeff Yass has given Donalds $5 million, the congressmans largest single donation this cycle.) Exit polls showed Trump did better with Black voters than any Republican in nearly half a century. Donalds advocacy made him a friend of the president, and the two remain close: Trump has called Donalds a TOTAL WINNER! In Donalds phone, Trump is 4547, a reference in part to Trumps presidencies. Donalds phone is on silent for everyone but two people. Trump is one of them. Donalds the history maker Donalds would be the first Black governor of Florida, but hes quick to downplay this fact. Even though Im Black, I dont think its about Blackness, Donalds told the Times. I think what it demonstrates to the Black community is that hard work, perseverance, focus, vision, grit, a little bit of luck, thats really what matters at the end of the day. In media appearances, Donalds says America used to systemically discriminate against Black people, but no longer. If anyone consistently expects him to act a certain way because of his race, its liberals, he argues. In 2024, Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas, who is Black, noted Donalds has a white wife and questioned whether he has lost perspective on American history. At the time, Crockett was commenting on a quote from Donalds about how, during Jim Crow, the Black family was together. Donalds said Crocketts statements were racist. Donalds seems to relish conflict. At a town hall in Donalds district in April, his constituents showed up after the Trump administration announced a series of government cutbacks. Many in attendance were outraged. Similar scenes were playing out at GOP town halls across the country, with some lawmakers getting bombarded with boos or ducking out before their events ended. A Republican leader told members flat-out to avoid town halls. Donalds didnt listen. Ten minutes in, things got so rowdy that an aide took to the mic to get control of the crowd. Ladies and gentlemen I got it, Donalds interjected. Chill out. Lets roll. For more than an hour, Donalds settled into a groove, gamely answering questions despite the crowds persistent interjections. He was grilled about gun violence, heckled about Elon Musks cost-cutting initiative and chided for his support of Israel. The crowd didnt like his answers. Donalds didnt seem to care. Toward the end of one exchange about affirmative action, a man asked Donalds whether hed read Caste, a book on race by Isabel Wilkerson. The implication: By embracing conservatism, Donalds had fundamentally misunderstood Americas history. Have you read the book of my life? Donalds replied. Some in the largely white crowd jeered. I like how everybody is shouting at me, Donalds shot back, the Black guy on stage. (FOX40.COM) The California Department of Justice rejected the request made by the Yolo County Board of Supervisors Chairperson, Dr. Mary Vixie Sandy, to lead the investigation that tragically killed seven people in the Esparto warehouse fire. Video above: Farm files lawsuit tied to Esparto explosion that killed 7 people This comes after the Yolo County Board of Supervisors reached out to California Attorney General Rob Bontas office via a letter on July 18 to join Cal Fire in taking the lead on the investigation related to the deadly Oakdale fire in Esparto. Coroner announces cause of death for 7 killed in Esparto explosion Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand that Cal Fire not the Yolo County Sheriffs Office is currently leading the investigation of this incident, the DOJ said. We are confident CAL FIRE is able to conduct a complete, thorough and unbiased investigation. We stand ready to assist CAL FIRE in its investigation if it so requests in the future. The DOJ said in a press release that, in regards to the Yolo County District Attorneys Office, there has not been enough information received to identify any office-wide disabling conflict that would require the office to be rescued from prosecuting any offense that may have happened during the fire on July 1. We appreciate your outreach and will continue to monitor the situation and offer assistance as needed, the DOJ stated in a press release. We extend our sincere condolences to your community on the loss as a result of the tragic event. FOX40 reached out to the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, and they sent the following statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We appreciate the Attorney Generals timely and thoughtful response to our request. We remain committed to ensuring that the investigation into the Oakdale Fire is conducted with the independence and transparency the public deserves. Our priority continues to be maintaining community trust and seeking accountability for the lives lost and the families impacted. We will continue to monitor and will keep open channels of communication with the Attorney General as the investigation evolves. For more information regarding the fire, 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 FOX40 News. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has officially called for a special election on redistricting in retaliation against Texas Republicans, who have moved to redraw their congressional districts and further gerrymander the electoral map at the direction of Donald Trump. The special election, which Newsom has scheduled for Nov. 4, will be an ethical litmus test for California voters who must decide if they want to strip their independent redistricting commission of power temporarily in favor of a constitutional amendment to allow the state Legislature to create new maps for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 election cycles. Newsom was met with loud applause as he began his address on what he deemed Liberation Day. Speaking directly to the camera, he said, Wake up, America, this is a serious moment. Wake up to whats going on. Newsom spoke about the need to fight fire with fire and took direct aim at the president: Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and we will punch back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, I know they say, Dont mess with Texas. But dont mess with the great Golden State. Republican lawmakers in Texas have been met with fierce criticism for acquiescing to the presidents demand to redraw the map to gain an additional five seats a move that would disenfranchise Democratic voters in the state, particularly communities of color. The move is especially brazen given its timing: Redistricting typically happens only every decade, after the U.S. census has updated demographic information for each state. When asked by the press why they were taking such drastic measures to unfairly tilt the balance of future elections, one Republican Texas House member, Mitch Little, put it simply: Because we can. Speaking ahead of Newsom at the press conference were union representatives, local and national lawmakers from the state, and activists who underscored the risks of not taking action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jodi Hicks, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, urged action to protect reproductive freedoms, which Republican politicians have continued to erode since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion in 2022. We dont have another choice, Hicks said. Erika Jones, a representative of the California Teachers Association union, said, Our union stands in full support of this ballot initiative. We are ready to do whatever it takes to stop this power grab and fight back against any and all attacks on our democracy, on our students and on public education. State Assemblymember Isaac Bryan spoke about the 55 Democratic legislators in Texas who fled their state courageously, patriotically, to break quorum so that their state couldnt lie, cheat and steal national elections from the American people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bryan added, Do Californians hate gerrymandering? Yes. Do the American people hate gerrymandering? Yes, we do and we absolutely should. Thats not what this is about. This is about whether we will let the authoritarian in the White House break our democracy while we sit silent, while we take a high road that doesnt exist anymore. Now isnt that moment. Now is the time to square up and defend all that we deserve, all that weve built, all that makes this country truly great. U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., took to the podium and called it a precarious moment in our nations history. Schiff issued a stark warning to Trump and his Republican colleagues: You come after our votes in California, and we will fight you tooth and nail. In recent days, Newsom has been trolling the president on social media and poking fun at his mannerisms, with his press office posting on X in all caps: 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. MAKE THE MAPS GREAT AGAIN! BIG BEAUTIFUL RALLY TODAY. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER! Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 14, 2025 Newsom also railed against federal officers who showed up outside the presser: BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED!...TRUMPS PRIVATE ARMY IS ILLEGALLY ON PRIVATE PROPERTY!!!! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY THIS WEAK LITTLE MAN!!! This article was originally published on MSNBC.com A Southern California police officer is getting help from the online crowdfunding community to raise money to provide his dog partner a bulletproof vestan expense his department does not currently cover. The officer and his K-9 partner are part of the Hemet Police Department in Riverside County. A verified GoFundMe page started on behalf of Hemet PD officer Vera is aiming to raise around $4,000 to equip Barry, Veras 3-year-old Belgian Malinois partner, with the protective gear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vera was recently promoted to K9 Handler and wants to ensure his partner is protected in the field. Unfortunately, the department does not provide bulletproof vests for K9s, and the cost for Barrys custom-fitted vest is $4,000, organizer Brandon Martinez writes on the GoFundMe page. Martinez says he will match every donation received in order to ensure Barry gets the protective cover he needs. Every dollar counts your support could literally help save a life. Hemet Police Department officer Vera and his K9 partner Barry are shown in this undated photo. (Hemet PD via GoFundMe) Hemet Police Department K9 partner Barry is shown in this undated photo. (GoFundMe) Barry was trained at Adlerhorst International in Jurupa Valley, which has trained dogs for deployment in law enforcement fields for more than 40 years, its website states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hemet Police Department dog completed 240 hours of training in a handlers course that teaches the basics of apprehension, article searches and various law enforcement scenarios. Barry is described by the Police Department as a hugger, who loves to chew on his toy ball. Martinez describes the dog as brave, loyal, and ready to protect our community but right now, he needs our protection. As of Tuesday at 5 p.m., the campaign has raised around $600 in 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. Heat rises from the stacks of the ConocoPhillips refinery in Wilmington in October 2022. (Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times) As California pushes toward its ambitious goals for addressing climate change, the fate of its signature program is hanging in the balance. For months, lawmakers, industry groups and environmental advocates have been mired in negotiations over whether and how to extend the cap-and-trade program, which limits planet-warming emissions, beyond its 2030 expiration date. The cap-and-trade program was nation-leading when it was authorized by state law in 2006. It requires major polluters such as power plants, oil refineries and other industrial facilities to purchase allowances, or credits, for each ton of carbon dioxide they emit, and lets those companies buy or sell their unused allowances at quarterly auctions. Each year fewer credits are created, lowering the total annual climate pollution in the state. Gov. Gavin Newsom is advocating for the program to be extended to 2045, and hopes to see it reauthorized before the end of the legislative session on September 12. Cap-and-trade currently covers about two-thirds of Californias greenhouse gas emissions, and its auctions generate billions of dollars for the state each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most experts agree the program must continue in order for California to reach its goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. But while Newsom is pushing for it to be reauthorized largely in its current form, critics say considerable reforms are needed to address concerns about how cap-and-trade is run and where the money is spent. The California Air Resources Board, which administers the program, is involved in a halting rulemaking process to evaluate changes, including how the program is structured. It is hugely consequential it is a decadal decision, said Barry Vesser, chief program officer at nonprofit The Climate Center. Californians overwhelmingly support doing something about climate change. We need the program, and it needs to be strengthened. Read more: California unveils plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2045 Among critics' biggest concerns are that the cap is too weak and there are too many credits for polluting companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the program has been instrumental in helping California meet its greenhouse gas reduction goals including a 14% decline in overall emissions since the first cap went into effect in 2013 the progress has slowed in recent years. California is not on pace to meet its more aggressive future targets, which include a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and at least 85% by 2045. At the current rate of about 2.5% reductions per year, the state is not on track to meet its 2030 goal, according to an analysis from the nonprofit Next 10, which examines the states climate progress each year. Whats more, emissions would need to fall at about 3.5 times that rate 8.8% per year to reach the 2045 goal. These goals are intended to make sure the fourth-largest economy in the world does its part to maintain a recognizable climate in the future. "Its incredibly important that the cap be ambitious enough that it aligns with our 2045 greenhouse gas reduction target, and we want to make sure that that is clear in the reauthorizing legislation, said Katelyn Roedner Sutter, California state director with the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund. Frankly, there isnt wiggle room in our ambition. Cap-and-trade is the most cost-effective climate policy that California has." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The stakes are so high, in fact, that a recent report from the nonpartisan Legislative Analysts Office urges the legislature to take the time it needs to weigh its policy choices before deciding on whether and how to reauthorize the program, as any decision around cap-and-trade will have significant environmental, economic and political ramifications. Indeed, theres no world in which California could meet its climate goals without cap-and-trade, Roedner Sutter said, noting that without a limit on pollution, pollution would be unlimited. She said delaying the programs extension would also lead to lost revenue, jobs and economic growth for California, among other consequences. Climate change is costing Californians money right now with wildfires and insurance and extreme heat and all of this, and so we have to keep up the climate ambition, she said. Read more: California unlikely to meet landmark goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while cap-and-trade is a climate program at heart, the revenue it generates often garners the most attention. The auctions have brought in roughly $31 billion since the programs inception, and are projected to bring in anywhere from $70 billion to $260 billion more if it is extended to 2045 The money, which is deposited into the states Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, is used to support a wide range of environmental projects, including electric vehicle infrastructure, energy efficiency programs and the California Climate Credit, which provides direct savings on residents utilities bills across the state. But revenue has been tumbling as lawmakers and regulators drag their feet on extending the program. The state missed out on an estimated $3 billion in cap-in-trade revenue over the last year an amount equal to roughly a quarter of California's budget deficit and the most recent auction in May ended with about 20% of the credits unsold. Critics also argue that some of the funds biggest expenditures are politically driven and dont offer immediate carbon benefits as intended. Newsom has proposed setting aside nearly half of the programs average annual revenue to support the high-speed rail project and wildfire operations at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, which would result in about $1 billion each. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In just the last decade, cap-and-trade has invested billions of dollars in projects by holding polluters accountable helping clean our air, protect public health and propel new careers, the governor said in a joint statement with Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas when they announced their intention to reauthorize the program in April. Cap-and-trade is a huge success and, working together, well demonstrate real climate leadership that will attract investment and innovation to deliver the technologies of tomorrow, right here in California. But California also gives away about half of the programs credits or allowances for free. Most go to oil refineries and industrial facilities in the hope of keeping them in California. Others go to electric utilities and natural gas suppliers to keep them from passing compliance costs onto customers. As a result, opponents say, the cap-and-trade program amounts to a get-out-of-jail-free card for polluters, allowing them to continue business as usual without really eliminating harmful emissions in the state particularly in the low-income and disadvantaged communities that tend to live closest to polluting facilities. Its absurd for our climate policy to include billions in giveaways for Big Oil so it can claim to reduce climate-altering emissions on paper instead of having to do it in real life, said Asha Sharma, state policy manager at the nonprofit Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability, in a statement. If our state leaders dont make serious changes to the cap-and-trade program, polluters will continue to skate, while low-income communities of color neighboring polluters pay the price. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vesser, of the Climate Center, said he would like to see free allowances phased out. Oil and gas companies are fighting tooth and nail for what they see as their interests ... but it shouldnt be the driver of our policy, he said. He also wants to see the program expand the California Climate Credit for low- and middle-income ratepayers and invest in projects that address equitability. There is a revenue-generating side of this, and there is a carbon reduction side of this, and when its managed well, those things can work and be mutually self-reinforcing, he said. Read more: Is California's cap-and-trade program hurting the environment more than helping it? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For its part, the oil and gas industry is also pushing for reforms but in the opposite direction. Eliminating free credits and strengthening the programs cap run the real risk of driving refineries and other large emitters out of the state, industry officials said. (Chevron executive Andy Walz recently told Politico hed like to see cap-and-trade paused for up to 20 years). Two major companies, Valero and Phillips 66, have already announced plans to close refineries in California soon, and additional closures would drive gas prices even higher for consumers, they say. The reality is that consumers will pay the price through lost jobs, higher prices, and a slower economy if politicians get it wrong on cap-and-trade, said Catherine Reheis-Boyd, president and chief executive of the Western States Petroleum Assn., in a statement to The Times. Updates to the program need to bring down costs to ensure Californias oil and gas industry can compete in a global market while protecting workers, lowering emissions, and producing the unique fuel we rely on. If policymakers fail to get cap-and-trades costs under control, it will send a clear message to those considering whether or not to remain in California. A well-designed market-based system is the best way to achieve our climate goals, but affordability must be a priority. Experts say the uncertainty around the programs future is largely why its revenue is continuing to fall. The most recent auction in May was not only undersold, but left an estimated $961 million of credits on the table, according to a report from the nonprofit Clean and Prosperous California. They expect similar losses from future auctions, including the next one on August 20, until California leadership intervenes. The governors office this week said it is still hoping to finalize the extension by mid-September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The California Air Resources Board said removing uncertainty around the programs future is one of its priorities especially as the Trump administration takes steps to loosen emissions regulations at the federal level. In the current atmosphere of federal confusion and uncertainty, it is more important than ever to show political support for Californias efforts on climate action, CARB spokeman Dave Clegern said. Legislative extension will send the investment signal for the private sector to keep moving forward on clean energy and technology in the state. For the most part, experts agree. The evidence shows that Californias cap-and-trade program has worked well so far to significantly reduce emissions and invest in communities, said Clayton Munnings, executive director of Clean and Prosperous California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the present moment represents an opportunity for state leadership to build a foundation for the next 20 years, Munnings said. He urged them to finalize cap-and-trade's extension and ensure that its allowances are cut enough to align with the state's ambitious climate targets. Such a program, he added, would be emulated by climate leaders around the world. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Reporting by Melissa Sanchez/ProPublica, Mica Rosenberg/ProPublica, Ronna Risquez/Alianza Rebelde Investiga, Perla Trevizo/ProPublica and The Texas Tribune, Jeff Ernsthausen/ProPublica & Adrian Gonzalez/Cazadores de Fake News Jose Manuel Ramos Bastidas never set foot in the U.S. at least not as a free man. He left Venezuela in January 2024, hoping to earn enough money to pay for his newborn sons medical needs. Born with a respiratory condition, the familys milagrito, or little miracle, had severe asthma and repeatedly needed to be hospitalized. The cost of treatment had become impossible to manage on the meager wages Ramos made washing cars in Venezuelas collapsed economy, so he trekked thousands of miles through a half dozen countries to reach the U.S. border. When Ramos arrived, he didnt sneak into the country. He followed the rules established by the Biden administration for immigrants seeking asylum. He signed up for an appointment through a government app and, when he was granted one, turned himself in to request protection. An immigration official and a judge determined he didnt qualify, and Ramos didnt fight the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government kept him in detention until he could be deported back to Venezuela. In the months that followed, Donald Trump was elected president for a second term and began his mass deportation campaign. Among his first actions was to fly groups of Venezuelan immigrants whom he had labeled dangerous gang members to a U.S. military base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Ramos, 30, panicked and called his wife to say he was worried that the same was going to happen to him. On a video call his wife recorded, he held up a document he said was proof that immigration authorities had agreed to deport him to Venezuela. But he worried that they would not honor that promise. I have a family, he said, staring directly into the camera. I am simply a hard-working Venezuelan. I havent committed any crimes. I dont have a criminal record in my country nor anywhere else. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A month later, a more upbeat Ramos called again. He seemed confident that U.S. officials would send him home. Ramos family started preparing for his return. They planned to bake him a cake, cook his favorite chicken dish, and go to church together to thank God for bringing him home safely. They never heard from him again. Bastidas rests with Ramos son and her grandson, Jared, at their home in Venezuela. Rodriguez holds her phone, showing a photo of her husband. On March 15, a day after that call, Ramos and more than 230 other Venezuelan men were sent to the CECOT maximum-security prison in El Salvador, one of the most notorious in the Western Hemisphere. Without publicly providing evidence, the administration accused each of them of being members of Tren de Aragua, the Venezuelan prison gang it designated a terrorist organization. In the months since the mass deportation one of the most consequential in recent history the Trump administration has released almost no details about the backgrounds of the people it deported, calling them monsters, sick criminals, and the worst of the worst. Several news organizations have reported that most of the men did not have criminal records. ProPublica, The Texas Tribune and a team of Venezuelan journalists from Alianza Rebelde Investiga (Rebel Alliance Investigates) and Cazadores de Fake News (Fake News Hunters) went further, finding that the governments own records showed that it knew the vast majority of the men had not been convicted of violent crimes in the U.S. We also searched records in South America and found that only a few had committed violent crimes abroad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, a case-by-case examination of each of the deportees, along with interviews with their lawyers and family members, reveals another jarring reality: Most of the men were not hiding from federal authorities but were instead moving through the nations immigration system. They were either in the middle of their cases, which normally should have protected them from deportation, or they had already been ordered deported and should have first been given the option to be sent back to a country they chose. Like Ramos, more than 50 of the men had used the government app called CBP One to schedule an appointment with border officials to try to enter the country. Others had crossed illegally and then surrendered to border agents, often the first step in seeking asylum in immigration court. According to our analysis, almost half of the men were deported even though their cases hadnt been decided yet. More than 60 of them had pending asylum claims, including several who were only days away from a hearing where a judge could have ruled on whether they would be allowed to stay. Judges or federal officials had issued deportation orders for about 100 of the men, and a handful had even agreed to pay their own way home. Others, like Ramos, had spent their entire time in the U.S. in detention. They had no opportunity to commit crimes in the U.S. Meanwhile, many of those who were allowed into the country had been appearing at their court hearings and immigration check-ins. At least nine had been granted Temporary Protected Status, which gives people from countries affected by disasters or other extraordinary conditions permission to live and work in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By and large, these were men who had been playing by the rules of the countrys immigration system. Then, the Trump administration changed the rules. A day before the administration deported the men to El Salvador, Trump invoked an obscure 18th-century law called the Alien Enemies Act and declared that Tren de Aragua was invading the country. Administration officials argued that the declaration authorized them to take extraordinary measures to remove anyone it had determined was a member of the gang and to make sure they would not threaten the U.S. again. Following the March 15 deportations, the Trump administration moved to shut down its pending immigration cases. Since then, more than 95 cases have been dismissed, terminated, or otherwise closed by judges, according to our analysis. They disappear from the dockets, some marked as dismissed just hours before a scheduled hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michelle Brane, who served as a senior Department of Homeland Security official in the Biden administration, said it was very un-American to deport people who followed the immigration rules at the time. You cant retroactively say that those people were acting illegally and now punish them for that, she added. Lawyers for the Venezuelan men have filed several lawsuits against the administration, calling the summary removals from the country a gross violation of their clients rights. U.S. District Judge James Boasberg ruled in June that the move deprived the men of their constitutional rights and called their plight Kafkaesque. He wrote that the men never had any opportunity to challenge the Governments say-so, and that they languish in a foreign prison on flimsy, even frivolous, accusations. The government has appealed the ruling. Meanwhile, Ramos mother, Crisalida del Carmen Bastidas de Ramos, waits anxiously for any news about her oldest child. What is my son thinking? Is my son eating well? Is my son sleeping? Is he cold? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Is he alive? Rodriguez plays with her son at their home in Venezuela. Although the Trump administration routinely describes the men as criminals and terrorists, it has not provided evidence to support the claim. Tricia McLaughlin, an assistant secretary at DHS, defended sending them to the Salvadoran prison. They may not have criminal records in the U.S., beyond breaking our laws to enter the country illegally, she said in a statement, but many of these illegal aliens are far from innocent. For example, she said one of the TPS holders sent to El Salvador admitted he had previously been convicted of murder. We obtained Venezuelan court records confirming that the man had been convicted of murder and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. McLaughlin said his case proved that immigrants had been granted status in the U.S. under Biden without being thoroughly vetted. Three former DHS officials from the Biden administration said the vetting process has remained standard across administrations, including during the first Trump term, and that many governments do not share criminal background histories with U.S. officials. Trump has moved to strip TPS protections from hundreds of thousands of people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramos, McLaughlin said, was a terrorist who was flagged as a Tren de Aragua member in a law enforcement database at his CBP One appointment. His family denies he has anything to do with the gang. His lawyers said in court records that U.S. authorities wrongly identified him as a gang member based on his tattoos and an unsubstantiated report from Panamanian officials. A spokesperson for the Panamanian security ministry said he could not locate any documents about Ramos. At least 163 men who were deported had tattoos, we found. Law enforcement officials in the U.S., Colombia, Chile, and Venezuela with expertise in the Tren de Aragua told us that tattoos are not an indicator of gang membership. Albert Jesus Rodriguez Parra had applied for asylum and worked at Chicagos Wrigley Field before he was detained in November. He was deported to El Salvador in March, where he remains imprisoned. Days before Albert Jesus Rodriguez Parra was whisked away, he appeared in immigration court and tried to convince a judge that his tattoos did not mean he was part of the gang. He had come to the U.S. with a brother in 2023, applied for asylum, and settled in Chicago. He told his mother that it was difficult to find work, but that hed gotten an electric razor, learned to cut hair, and offered trims on the street. In January 2024, he was arrested at a Walmart in the Chicago suburbs for shoplifting about $1,000 worth of food, laundry detergent, shampoo, and other items. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor, served a two-day jail sentence, and tried to move on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rodriguez Parra, 28, got a job working in concessions at Wrigley Field, moved in with his girlfriend, and sent money home to his mother to buy a refrigerator and a stove. Then, in November, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents picked him up at his apartment. McLaughlin said he was in the country illegally and was a Tren de Aragua member. Rodriguez Parra continued his asylum case from immigration detention in Indiana. He told his family he believed he would be released soon. But in early March, he was transferred to a jail in Missouri, then to one in Central Texas, and then another in Laredo in South Texas, each move bringing him closer to the border. Uncertainty began creeping into his calls home. Despite the transfers, Rodriguez Parras attorney, Cruz Rodriguez, who works for a small immigration unit at the Cook County public defenders office in Chicago, said he was confident in the merits of the asylum case. He felt optimistic when he logged into his clients virtual bond hearing before Judge Eva Saltzman on March 10. At the hearing, a government attorney asked Rodriguez Parra about a TikTok video hed made of himself dancing to a popular audio clip of someone shouting, Te va agarrar el Tren de Aragua, which means, The Tren de Aragua is going to get you. Close to 60,000 users on TikTok have shared the clip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rodriguez Parra scoffed at the notion that a real gang member would make such a video. It would be like they were outing themselves, he said in Spanish. The audio clip has been used by Venezuelans to ridicule the widespread suggestion that everyone from the country is a gangster. The government attorney also asked Rodriguez Parra about the tattoos that covered his neck, arms, and chest a rose, a wolf, carnival masks, and an angel holding a gun. In my country, its very normal to have tattoos, he responded. Each one represents a story about my life. He was also questioned about a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member who had crossed the border at the same time as him. Rodriguez Parra said he did not know the man. At the end of the hearing, he pleaded with the judge to free him on bond. Im a good person, he told her. If I were in a gang, I wouldnt have applied for asylum. I came fleeing my country. Saltzman denied Rodriguez Parras request, citing his shoplifting conviction. But she offered him a sliver of hope, reminding him that his final hearing was just 10 days away. If she granted him asylum, hed be released and could continue his life in the U.S. Youre not facing a particularly lengthy detention without a bond, she told him. Five days later, he was gone. At what was supposed to be his final asylum hearing on March 20, Rodriguez Parras lawyer sounded despondent. He had barely slept. He didnt know where the authorities had taken his client, but hed seen a video posted online of shackled men being frog-marched into CECOT. The attorney had visited El Salvador and was aware of that countrys reputation for mistreating prisoners. He feared his client would face a similar fate. He felt powerless. At the hearing, he turned to the government lawyer on the call. For his familys sake, he told her, would you happen to know what country he was sent to? The governments lawyer had little to say. Im operating under the same information as you, she responded. I have no further information to provide. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toutant also served as a captain in the Louisiana Militia, though historical records dont tie him to any particular battle. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Louisiana Illuminator is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Louisiana Illuminator maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Greg LaRose for questions: info@lailluminator.com. A disability rights campaigner has called for more railway stations to have step-free access ahead of planned improvement works at his local one. Nathaniel Yates, who has cerebral palsy, started campaigning in 2018 - a few years after falling on stairs at Reddish North in Stockport, Greater Manchester. He said everyone deserved access to train services, adding: "Transport should be a level playing field." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) said it was "moving at pace to deliver improvements" as it praised Mr Yates for his "brilliant job raising awareness about the lack of accessible railway stations". 'You'd be stranded' According to research from Transport for the North, less than half of the region's stations have step-free access. Mr Yates pointed out the example of Woodsmoor, which only has such access from one side. "This is the nearest [station] to the local hospital - Stepping Hill in Stockport," he explained. "So you could get to Stepping Hill but you can't get back - you'd be stranded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You have to rely on other people rather than you doing things for yourself." Step-free access is due to be installed at Reddish North next year [Google Maps] Step-free access is set to be installed at Reddish North in 2026 - something Mr Yates said he was looking forward to "immensely". But he has vowed to continue fighting for change across Greater Manchester and beyond. "I would like to introduce step-free access again at all stations," he said. "I would like to introduce a sensory room at Stockport station at some point for people that are neurodiverse too." Councillor Grace Baynham, cabinet member for parks, highways and transport services at Stockport Council, said making travel accessible was "so important". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This upgrade means people with limited mobility, parents with prams, and anyone who's ever found it tricky to get around at the station will have a much smoother experience," she said. "This is such a big win for our community, thanks in part to the great work of Nathaniel Yates." Work to provide step-free access at Swinton, Hindley, Bryn and Reddish North is scheduled to get under way next year, with accessibility improvements at Flowery Field, Newton for Hyde, Bredbury and Levenshulme set to follow. A spokesperson for TfGM said: "It means that 63% of the city-region's railway stations will be step-free, up from 43% currently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This rolling programme of upgrades also forms part of Greater Manchester's wider plans to bring eight commuter rail lines into the Bee Network by 2028, building a more inclusive and accessible public transport network and delivering major improvements to stations, services and passenger experience." Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. Related internet links Canadians views of U.S. leadership have turned increasingly negative since President Donald Trump returned to office, a new poll from Gallup found. Approval of Washington dropped to 15 percent its lowest since Trumps first term with nearly four in five Canadians disapproving of U.S. leaderships job performance. That exceeds disapproval ratings for Chinese leadership, with 64 percent of Canadians expressing disapproval of Beijing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The drop in support for the U.S. government comes as Trump has engaged in a protracted battle with Americas northern neighbor, hitting Canada with steep import tariffs and floating the idea of annexing the country, a proposal that sparked fierce backlash among Canadian citizens and leadership. Less than half of Canadians have generally approved of U.S. leadership since 2017. But Canadians warmed to Washington under the Biden administration, with U.S. leadership briefly receiving a net-positive approval rating in 2021. At the same time, Canadians approval of their own leadership rose nearly 20 percentage points from last year, with nearly 60 percent of Canadians approving of the countrys leaders following Prime Minister Mark Carneys April election win. Carney has taken a more conciliatory approach to the Trump administration, privately courting Trump in his attempts to secure a trade truce even as he has publicly pushed back on the White Houses aggressive stance toward Canada. The poll was conducted by telephone from May 20-June 30, 2025 with a random sample of approximately 1,014 Canadian adults. The margin of sampling error is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points. LOS ANGELES Gavin Newsom and Californias political powers are all-in on the Great Blue Gerrymander. The Democratic states leading politicians and its most prominent labor unions put on a show of unity on Thursday at a raucous rally as they gathered to launch a campaign for a new House map that, if voters approve it, would help oust a half-dozen California Republicans. The event telegraphed how thoroughly Democrats and their allies have coalesced behind a blue-state gerrymandering push and the extent to which California, by embracing that effort, now stands at the forefront of combatting President Donald Trumps agenda . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear, district by district, all across this country, Gov. Gavin Newsom said. We need to stand up. Not just California: Other states need to stand up. The themes of that likely special election came into focus on Thursday: Rally attendees spoke at a podium emblazoned with an "Election Rigging Response Act sign and held defend democracy placards. Details also emerged about the campaigns backers. A newly unveiled campaign website lists House Democrats principal super PAC and Democratic megadonor Bill Bloomfield as initial funders. Multiple speakers condemned the immigration raids Trump has unleashed on Los Angeles among them SEIU California President David Huerta, who was detained during a protest and choked up when he described the raids as U.S. Border Patrol agents gathered outside. We were told (Trump) wanted to make us more safe, that he wanted to deport criminals, said California Labor Federation leader Lorena Gonzalez, and instead he's been deporting and targeting workers and grandmothers and children and dreamers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump spurred a national redistricting battle by pushing Texas Republicans to shore up the GOPs slender House majority with a new state map. Newsom responded by vowing to neutralize GOP gains in Texas with a California gerrymander, enthusiastically pursuing a tactic the Democratic Party has urged in New York and other blue states. Democrats argue Trump is trying to subvert the election because he knows his policies, like tariffs and legislation that slashes health care spending, would otherwise drag down Republicans' prospects. In normal times a political party in power would be proud of their accomplishments and theyd be running on their record," Sen. Alex Padilla said. They know theyre not just unpopular, theyre wrong, and the only hope they have of keeping power next November is to rig the system. Republicans have denounced the emerging campaign, arguing self-interested politicians are seizing an opportunity to empower themselves and undermine the will of voters who removed redistricting power from elected officials. "Now, Newsom wants to take that power back, rush through secret maps, and spend hundreds of millions so he and his friends can choose their voters instead of voters choosing their representatives," California Republican Party chair Corrin Rankin said in a statement. "He calls it transparent and temporary but it is really a calculated power grab that dismantles the very safeguards voters put in place." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California Democrats have raced to draw a new map that could push a half-dozen Republicans out of office. Democrats who wield supermajorities in the state Legislature are expected to vote next week to put the new lines to voters during a Nov. 4 special election. But victory at the ballot box is far from assured. Newsoms pollster has circulated an internal survey showing the measure starting with only a narrow majority, and polling from POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab found voters overwhelmingly support keeping the states independent redistricting commission. (The nascent ballot measure would leave the commission in place but effectively override its work by creating new maps to boost Democrats through 2030.) Democrats argue their message of rebuking Trump will resonate with voters and prove more powerful than their qualms about overhauling the states rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Californians believe in fair maps, said Rep. Pete Aguilar, who has been deeply involved in the effort as California's senior House Democrat, but if Texas and other red states want to move forward with their partisan power grab to rig the elections, we cannot sit on the sidelines. It will likely be an enormously expensive fight. There are no contribution limits for ballot initiatives, and a highly partisan, off-year brawl centering on Trump and Republican power could draw in national donors both Democrats itching to stymie Trump and Republicans eager to rebuke Newsom and Democratic leaders. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Canutillo Independent School District Police Departments first K9, Officer Alis, had an official retirement ceremony on Thursday, Aug. 14, at Canutillo High School. The ceremony marked the end of Alis career, with students and staff paying their respects in full honors and a ceremonial radio send-off from the districts police department dispatch. Alis, a 9-year-old Belgian Malinois, joined the school district in July 2018, and over the past seven years, she has worked alongside the districts safety and security team, specializing in the detection of narcotics and weapons. Officer Alis has been more than a K9. She is a trusted protector, an educator and a friend to our students and staff, said Canutillo ISD Police Chief Fernando Martinez. Her work has directly contributed to keeping harmful substances and dangerous items out of our schools. Her impact on student safety is immeasurable, and she has paved the way for future K9 officers in our district. Canutillo ISD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alis also visited campuses and classrooms to help students with social anxiety, the school district said. Her calm demeanor and friendly disposition made her a beloved figure among students, educators and families alike. Canutillo ISD Alis will spend her retirement with her handler, Sgt. Andres Hernandez. Alis will enjoy a life of relaxation, treats, and play, the school district said. The school district is in the initial stages of finding a new K9 officer. Shes done a lot. Shes prevented a lot of drugs from here in the high school. Especially now that THC is in the rise. She prevented a lot from coming into this school. Canutillo ISD Police Department Sgt. Andres Hernandez Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEED TO KNOW A swimmer in Cape Cod was infected with flesh-eating bacteria due to an open wound Massachusetts health officials say the case is rare and the beaches will remain open Residents are encouraged to educate themselves on the rare bacteria, as most infections occur from May through October when water temperatures are warmer Health officials are warning Massachusetts residents and visitors after a swimmer contracted flesh-eating bacteria called Vibrio vulnificus while on Cape Cod. On Friday, August 8, local and state officials confirmed a single case in an older individual who was swimming with an exposed wound at Old Silver Beach in Falmouth. The Falmouth Health Department said there is currently no advisory or closure of the beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cape Cods beaches are an important part of our economy, culture, and community, Scott McGann, health agent for the Town of Falmouth, said in a statement. By taking a few simple precautions, residents and visitors, and particularly anyone who is vulnerable or immunocompromised, can continue to enjoy them safely. On August 13, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health said that there have been seven confirmed cases of Vibrio vulnificus among residents in the last several years, including four that were likely exposed in the state. This case comes shortly after health officials warned residents in Gulf Coast states about flesh-eating bacteria following the death of eight people from infections. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Getty Cape Cod Cape Cod 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. Vibrio is the source of about 80,000 illnesses in the United States per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vibrio naturally live in coastal waters, according to the CDC. Most people are sickened by vibrio after eating raw or undercooked shellfish particularly oysters because the bacteria will concentrate inside the shellfish, the CDC explains. However, they naturally live in brackish water and cause an infection if a swimmer has an open wound or a recent tattoo or piercing. Most infections occur from May through October when water temperatures are warmer. Symptoms of a Vibrio infection vary, depending on how the bacteria is contracted. For bloodstream infections, the CDC says someone may experience fever, chills, dangerously low blood pressure, and blistering skin lesions. However, for a wound infection, a fever will accompany swelling and discharge around the wound. And for those who ingest the bacteria, it can mimic food poisoning, with watery diarrhea, often accompanied by stomach cramping, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The CDC says a Vibrio infection is treatable with antibiotics, but in more dire cases, doctors may need to amputate a patients legs or arms to remove dead or infected tissue. The flesh-eating bacteria is fatal for 1 in 5 people, according to the CDC, which warns that some people die within a day or two of exhibiting symptoms. Read the original article on People The government of Cape Verde has declared a state of emergency after a tropical storm devastated parts of the African archipelago, killing at least eight people, according to officials. Rescue workers continued to search for dozens of missing people on Thursday. Around 1,500 residents have been left homeless since storm Erin hit the islands of Sao Vicente, Santo Antao and Sao Nicolau on Monday. The storm destroyed houses and roads, brought down bridges and caused severe flooding on the three islands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Jose Ulisses Correia e Silva announced late on Wednesday the establishment of a crisis cabinet to speed up relief efforts. He said the World Bank had provided $10 million for reconstruction. The government also declared two days of national mourning. According to the local disaster control council, 193 millimetres of rain fell in just five hours on Monday, more than 12 times the average 15 millimetres that the British national meteorological service said typically falls in the whole of August. The Portuguese news agency Lusa said Portugal sent a navy ship to Cape Verde to provide humanitarian aid. The 10 islands of Cape Verde, with a total population of just under half a million, typically have a warm climate with little rainfall in the middle of the year. A stranger rushed him on a D.C. sidewalk, stabbing him in the head and chest and leaving him fighting for his life just blocks from the Capitol. Now, two years later, this Capitol Hill staffer is breaking his silence, sharing a message of forgiveness and reacting to President Donald Trumps new crime crackdown in Washington. "While my obligation was to forgive my attacker, I believe its our elected officials obligation to figure out how to prevent things like this from happening in the future," Phillip Todd told Fox News on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm not qualified to speak on how that's done, but I certainly welcome that it's now a priority in a conversation that's top of mind," he added. Man In Dc Shot And Killed Hours After Trump Federalizes City's Police Department Moments after leaving a church event in 2023, Todd was walking with a friend to get food when the attacker, identified as then-42-year-old Glynn Neal, suddenly rushed him on the sidewalk. Read On The Fox News App In shocking footage of the incident, the attacker can be seen jumping on top of Todd, stabbing him repeatedly. Todd's friend Chris then intervened and helped push the offender away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Todd credited God and his friend's "bravery" for preventing additional stab wounds and saving his life. "It was frankly due to grace of God that the four stabs he did get in didn't kill me," he said. Mother Of Slain Congressional Intern Praises Trump's Washington, Dc Crime Crackdown U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press about deploying federal law enforcement agents in Washington to bolster the local police presence, as U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth looks on, in the Press Briefing Room at the White House, in Washington D.C., U.S., August 11, 2025. While recovering in the hospital, Todd learned his attacker had been released from prison just one day earlier after serving time for other violent crimes in D.C. "Im a Capitol Hill staffer, so the thoughts I would usually have around this would have been political or about what kind of justice my attacker needed to serve," he explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But honestly, as I was reflecting on it, it became abundantly clear to me that, though he shouldnt be on the streets, God made it abundantly clear my primary responsibility in that moment was to forgive him and commit to praying for him regularly. "I have to say, I think I found joy, peace, and strength in being obedient to God's call to forgiveness." President Trump announced Monday that he is activating approximately 800 National Guard troops and is taking over the Metropolitan Police Department to "liberate" the nation's capital from out-of-control crime. Fox News' Diana Stancy contributed to this report. Original article source: Capitol Hill staffer stabbed in head, chest welcomes Trump's Washington, DC crime crackdown Rolfe Monteith: volunteered for the Royal Canadian Navy aged 17 Captain Rolfe Monteith, of the Royal Canadian Navy, who has died aged 101, was one of the teenage Dominion volunteers who crossed the Atlantic to serve in the Second World War, and one of the last survivors of the wartime Arctic convoys. Inspired by family holidays in Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, young Monteith was eager to go to sea. In 1941, aged 17, he volunteered for the Royal Canadian Navy and soon found himself on his first Atlantic crossing not yet in uniform aboard the armed merchant cruiser Laconia with convoy HX 147. The voyage was perilous, passing through wreckage from convoy SC 42, which had recently been mauled by German U-boats off Greenland. Arriving in Liverpool in September 1941, Monteith was among 31 Canadians in the Royal Navys Special Entry Course No 55 at Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth. He aspired to become a seaman officer but was instead sent to the Royal Naval Engineering College at Keyham in Plymouth. There, in a class with 12 Canadians and four Poles, he began a rigorous three-year engineering course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of his training included four months at sea, notably in the destroyer Hardy on Arctic Convoy JW 54B in November 1943, from Loch Ewe to Murmansk. The long Arctic nights shielded the convoy from enemy attacks but exposed the crew to freezing, treacherous seas. Monteith cherished his time at sea and was deeply affected when he had to leave his shipmates to return to Plymouth. Hardy was sunk a few weeks later; it was a loss that haunted him for years, until a reunion in 2017 when he met the son of Chief Petty Officer Fred Pearce, a Hardy survivor who had been his mentor. He later resettled in Britain Rolfe Monteith was born in Chatham, Ontario, on October 30 1923, the second son of a Bank of Montreal employee. After the war ended, he briefly visited Canada for the first time in four years before returning to sea in the cruiser Diadem to complete his marine engineering qualifications in November 1945. From 1947 he held a range of appointments, specialising as an air engineer. As engineer officer of HMCS Sioux in 1953, he attended Queen Elizabeth IIs coronation and the subsequent fleet review at Spithead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was director of air engineering in 1958-59 and engineering liaison officer with the Canadian joint staff in Washington from 1959 to 1962. While project manager for the Hydrofoil Escort 400 programme (1964-67), he also served for several months as director of marine and electrical engineering in 1965. Despite the hydrofoils eventual failure, his work raised his profile, highlighting the challenges of naval procurement. While attending the Imperial Defence College in London in 1968, Monteith decided to resign from the RCN and settle in the UK. He spent the following decades working with leading British engineering firms, including Babcock and Wilcox and the Weir Group. His expertise led to his appointment as chairman of the British Naval Equipment Association, maintaining strong ties with both the RN and RCN. Monteith as a 17-year-old midshipman Retiring in 1990, Monteith travelled extensively and organised naval reunions, including the 50th anniversary of Special Entry 55 in 1991, and gatherings in 1995 and 2001. He remained active in veterans circles well into his 90s, marching on Remembrance Sunday at the Cenotaph, proudly wearing both the British Arctic Star and Russian Ushakov Medal. He was equally at home sharing stories and debating history over lunch at Champagne Charlies in Charing Cross. Monteith met his first wife, Peggy Kelly, a Wren, during the War; they married in 1945. Peggy had lost her brother aboard the aircraft carrier Glorious, and Monteith retained a lifelong interest in that tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Peggys death in 1973 he met Ann Penketh in 1994, moving to her home in Brockweir and marrying her in 2013; she also predeceased him. Monteith, remembered for his warmth, humour and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, is survived by two sons, one a former RN surgeon lieutenant, the other a lawyer. Captain Rolfe Monteith, born October 20 1923, died July 22 2025 Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. WASHINGTON (AP) The investigation began years ago after two drug dealers got into a car accident in a small Tennessee town. What followed was a series of secret wiretaps, a shootout with police and the discovery of drugs hidden in a tractor trailer that would eventually lead federal investigators back to cartel leaders in Mexico. The investigation culminated with Justice Department indictments unsealed Thursday against three leaders and two high-ranking enforcers of the United Cartels, a leading rival of Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The U.S. government is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of United Cartels' top leader, Juan Jose Farias Alvarez El Abuelo, or the grandfather along with multimillion-dollar rewards for the four others. All five are believed to be in Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cases, as outlined in court documents, provide a glimpse into how drugs produced by violent cartels in large labs in Mexico flow across the U.S. border and reach American streets. They also highlight the violent fallout that drug trafficking leaves in its path from the mountains of Mexico to small U.S. towns. "These cases in particular serve as a powerful reminder of the insidious impacts that global cartels can have on our local American communities," Matthew Galeotti, acting assistant attorney general in charge of the Justice Department's criminal division said in an interview with The Associated Press. The chain started with a violent cartel in Mexico and it ended with law enforcement being shot at in a small town." United Cartels is an umbrella organization made up of smaller cartels that have worked for different groups over time. It holds a fierce grip over the western state of Michoacan, Mexico, an area of economic interest to the United States because its avocado exports. United Cartels is not as widely known as Jalisco New Generation, but given its role as a prolific methamphetamine producer, it has become a top tier target for U.S. law enforcement. It was one of eight groups recently named foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A car crash and an abandoned protective case The case goes back to 2019, when two dealers got into a car accident near Rockwood, Tennessee, outside of Knoxville, according to a search warrant affidavit filed in court. While fleeing the scene of the crash, they threw a hardened protective case filled with meth behind a building before being caught by police, according to court documents. Authorities began investigating, using wiretaps, search warrants and surveillance to identify a man believed to be leading a major drug ring in the Atlanta area: Eladio Mendoza. The investigation into Mendoza's suspected drug operation led law enforcement in early 2020 to a hotel near Atlanta. During their surveillance, authorities spotted a man leaving with a large Doritos bag. Troopers tried to stop the man after he drove from Georgia into Tennessee but he fled and fired an AK-style rifle at officers, hitting one in the leg before another trooper shot him. Inside the bag, police found meth and heroin, and identified him as a low-level dealer for Mendozas drug ring, court records say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weeks later, authorities searched properties linked to Mendoza and seized phones. They discovered messages between Mendoza and a close associate of El Abuelo, the leader of United Cartels, that showed the drugs were coming from Mexico, according to the court records. On one of Mendoza's properties, investigators found a tractor trailer that had crossed from Mexico days earlier. When they searched it, authorities seized 850 kilograms of meth hidden in the floor of the truck and discovered more drugs inside a bus and a home on the property, court papers say. Mendoza fled the U.S. a short time later and returned to Mexico, where he was killed by cartels leaders angry that U.S. authorities had seized their cash and drugs, according to prosecutors. Cartels are targeted with terrorist designations The case represents the latest effort by the Republican administration to turn up the pressure on cartels through not only indictments of the groups' leaders but sanctions targeting their financial network. The Treasury Department is also bringing economic sanctions against the five defendants as well as the United Cartels as a group and a cartel under its umbrella, Los Viagras. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have to pursue these criminals up and down the chain to make sure that the end result doesnt result in violence and narcotics distribution on our streets," Galeotti said. In addition to El Abuelo, those facing U.S. indictments are Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, or Poncho, and Nicolas Sierra Santana or El Gordo, who authorities say lead smaller cartels under the United Cartels organization. The two other defendants are Edgar Orozco Cabadas or El Kamoni, who was communicating with Mendoza, and Luis Enrique Barragan Chavaz, or Wicho, who serves as Magallon second-in-command, according to authorities. The Trump administration has seen major cooperation from Mexico in recent months in turning over cartel leaders wanted by U.S. authorities. In February, Mexico sent the U.S. 29 drug cartel figures, including drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero, who was behind the killing of a U.S. DEA agent in 1985, to the U.S. And on Tuesday, the Mexican government transferred to American custody 26 additional cartel leaders and other high-ranking members, including a man charged in connection to the killing of a Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Were working with the Mexican authorities to pursue these individuals," Galeotti said. We continue to work proactively with them, and we expect that theyll be helpful with us in securing the presence of these individuals in United States courtrooms. _____ Associated Press writer Maria Verza in Mexico City contributed to this report. Two people were taken to hospital after a collision that blocked a major A-road in both directions. National Highways reported the A47 in Norfolk was closed between the A149 at Runham Roundabout in Great Yarmouth and the A1064 at Acle. Norfolk Police said it was called to the scene at about 06:30 BST and found a car in a ditch after a two-vehicle collision. One person was taken by air ambulance to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge and another person was transported to the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston. The force advised people to avoid the area and find alternative routes. Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. Related internet links Cardiologists Are Begging People With Fatigue To Do This One Thing ASAP originally appeared on Parade. Taylor Swift appeared on the New Heights podcast on Wednesday to talk about the upcoming release of her 12th studio album, but she spent plenty of time discussing her personal life. That included an update on her dad, Scott Swift, who recently had quintuple bypass surgery. "He's had a perfect [electrocardiogram] every year that he's gone in for physicals. But what found his five hard blockages in his heart was a resting stress test," Swift shared. Swift also revealed that her fathers health complication was dire. She said her father was told by his medical team, "We've gotta do this tomorrow. We don't know how you walked in here, dude. This is crazy." Since then, Swift said that her father has encouraged all of his friends to get this stress test. He's been telling all his friends, 'You need to get the stress test,' because that's what's actually preventative, Swift said. If you can find that earlier, you don't have to have a bypass surgery. You can sort out those blockages with stents and things that are a lot less invasive. Searches for resting stress tests immediately spiked online after the podcast episode was released, and raised a lot of questions about what this test is and who should get it. Cardiologists break it down. SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week The Test Cardiologists Want People With Fatigue To Take ASAP While Swift referred to this as a resting stress test, she seems to be referring to what is actually called a nuclear stress test. This is often recommended in people who have unexplained fatigue or other signs of heart complications, according to Dr. Yu-Ming Ni, MD, a cardiologist and lipidologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA. Related: The One Thing to Do Every Single Day to Lower Inflammation In Your Arteries, According to Cardiologists Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A stress test is a diagnostic test that we use to help evaluate patients who we are concerned have blockages in their coronary arteries, the arteries that feed heart muscle, explains Dr. Isla McClelland, MD, a cardiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. There are different kinds of stress tests, but in general they use exercise or a medication to stress the cardiovascular system in a safe, monitored setting so that we can see how the heart muscle reacts. The purpose of a stress test is to detect blockages of 70% or greater that may go undetected in a resting state, says Dr. M. Scott Dawson, MD, a cardiologist at southern New Jersey's Cooper and Inspira Cardiac Care. The most common type of stress test involves walking on a treadmill to look for changes on an electrocardiogram with exercise, says Dr. Dawn Warner Kershner, DO,a cardiologist with The Heart Center at Mercy in Baltimore, Maryland. The exercise treadmill stress test can be done with or without nuclear imaging, Dr. Kershner says. In general, nuclear imaging improves the accuracy of the test. However, Swift suggested that her father had a stress test that involved medication to stress the heart, not exercise. Related: Heres What Happens to Your Heart if You Take a Cold Shower Every Day How the Nuclear Stress Test Works The nuclear stress test without exercise involves giving a patient a medicine called a vasodilator, Dr. Ni says. This dilateswidensthe heart arteries and it only lasts for about five to 10 minutes, he explains. This medication imitates exercise, explains Dr. Lawrence Phillips, MD, director of nuclear cardiology at NYU Langone Heart. Doctors also inject patients with a radioactive substance, like thallium or sestamibi, so they can scan the heart and see how the substance travels through the veins and heart, Dr. Ni says. Its a pretty simple test, he continues. We do it all the time in our clinic. Its one of the most accurate ways of detecting a severe blockage. The test can help doctors see if there is an area of the heart that isnt getting enough blood flow, Dr. McClelland says. If there is such an area present, it indicates to us that there may be a blockage in the artery going to that part of the heart, she explains. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the stress test can be done with exercise or with medication, Dr. Phillips says the test that uses medication can diagnose disease that is just as good as exercise. Who Should Get This Stress Test Doctors are hesitant to assign a specific age to whom should get this test, given that anyone can have heart health issues that need to be explored. But Dr. Ni says it starts to become more important once you enter midlife, especially if you have specific symptoms and risk factors. I generally dont recommend it for an otherwise young and healthy person, Dr. Ni explains. But as you get toward middle age, it is important to get stress testing. Thats especially true if you have symptoms like youre not able to exercise or do an activity as well as you did before. Thats whether youre more short of breath than before while taking the stairs or you have significant fatigue with doing activities, he says. It could be as simple as taking the stairs, going for a light jog or sexual activity. If its exhausting you more than before, it could be an indication that your heart is not getting enough blood flow. Having chest pain, specifically in the middle or left side of the chest, shortness of breath, and nausea, especially when its related to exercise or exertion, can also be red flags to get a stress test, according to Dr. Phillips. Related: Heres What Happens to Your Heart if You Take a Cold Shower Every Day Dr. McClelland says the test should be ordered by a doctor after going over symptoms. In general, if someone is having symptoms concerning for artery blockages or if they have other medical problems that can increase their risk of blockagesespecially if they are going to be doing something where we know they will be under stress, like about to undergo surgerywe will order these tests, she explains. There is no specific age cut-off or group where we do or do not use this test as each patient situation is different. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ButDr. Ragavendra Baliga, MBBS, a cardiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, says this isnt usually part of a routine physical exam. While celebrity disclosures can raise awareness, the messaging should emphasize that stress testing is indicated based on symptoms and risk profilenot as a universal screening toolto avoid unnecessary testing or false positives, he adds. What Happens Next If you have a resting stress test with abnormal findings, Dr. Kershner says that doctors will usually recommend cardiac catheterization. This is a procedure where a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to look inside, according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Cardiac catheterization is the gold standard to assess the coronary arteries for significant blockages, she shares. The results of this test will dictate next steps, which may include medications, inserting a stent to keep an artery open, or open heart surgery. If you had a stress test done and youre still having symptoms or risk factors for cardiovascular disease, doctors may recommend that you have it again in the future. This varies from person to person, she says. Still, theres even more variation depending on how you feel. Most of the time, we get these tests when people are having heart symptoms, so there is no set schedule where we get this test every X number of years, Dr. McClelland says. However, Dr. Dawson adds that stress tests do a good job of predicting whether someone will have a cardiac event for up to two years after the test is done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Swift shared that her father is now doing incredibly well and regularly talks about the stress test to try to encourage others to get it too. Up Next: Related: 'I'm a Cardiologist, and These Are the 2 Packaged Snacks I Swear By for Heart Health' Sources: Cardiologists Are Begging People With Fatigue To Do This One Thing ASAP first appeared on Parade on Aug 14, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. Wis. (WLAX/WEUX) Remote work may offer flexibility, but it could also be quietly costing Wisconsin professionals their shot at promotions, according to Amanda Augustine, career expert at career.io, an all-in-one platform for career guidance and success. People assume that if theyre doing good work, someone will notice, Augustine said. Thats a nice idea, but the reality is, when youre not physically in the office, its easier to be overlooked. While hybrid work was designed to give employees the best of both worlds, Augustine warns that a fully remote rhythm can make it harder to stay top of mind for high-visibility projects, leadership opportunities, and informal decision-making conversations. Often, the oversight isnt intentional, its simply a matter of proximity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most managers arent purposely leaving remote workers out, she explained. But when theyre making quick decisions about whos ready for the next step, they tend to think of whoever they just saw in the hallway or sat next to in a meeting. Visibility Matters as Much as Performance In traditional office settings, colleagues and managers naturally see your work in action overhearing calls, witnessing interactions with senior leaders, or watching how you handle challenges in real time. Remote workers lose those organic moments of recognition. To bridge that gap, Augustine recommends finding intentional ways to share wins: loop in your manager when a project goes well, send a quick Slack update highlighting a success, or proactively provide progress reports during check-ins. Its not about bragging, she said. Its about making sure your efforts are visible. Make Office Days Count For hybrid employees, in-office time should be strategic. Augustine suggests aligning your schedule with when your boss or key stakeholders will be present. Those days are prime opportunities for casual conversations, relationship-building, and staying on the radar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Relationships matter, and theyre often built in between the meetings, not during them, she noted. Even a coffee catch-up or lingering after a meeting can strengthen connections that impact career advancement. Build an Office Ally Network Augustine also advises cultivating a few office allies, colleagues who are regularly on-site and can keep you in the loop about informal discussions. These allies can help ensure your name comes up when youre not physically present. Younger professionals and those still establishing their reputations are particularly at risk of being overlooked, she added. If youre still building your track record, its harder to do that if youre always behind a screen. Employers Share Responsibility While individuals must take charge of their visibility, Augustine says Wisconsin employers should also examine their promotion and project assignment data to ensure remote employees arent unintentionally passed over. Proximity bias, favoring those physically present, can creep in without awareness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You dont need to be the loudest voice in the room, Augustine said. But you do need to be in the room sometimes, or at least make sure your work is. Source: Career.io press release, Hybrid Hurdle: Career Expert Warns Wisconsin Remote Workers May Be Missing Promotions Without Realizing It, featuring insights from Amanda Augustine, Career Expert at Career.io. (Career.io) Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX2548 & WIProud. NICHOLAS COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) Nearly 40% of Nicholas County power customers were without electricity on Wednesday morning, with the city of Carlisles water plant unable to process water. City leaders announced on social media around 11 a.m., asking residents to conserve water due to the outage. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, school leaders in Nicholas County posted on Facebook that students are safe on each campus. Our staff is continuing normal supervision, and all safety protocols are in place, Nicholas County Schools wrote. We will provide updates as soon as we have more information. On Friday, Angie Lyons with the City of Carlisle told FOX 56 that electricity has been restored and the water plant is running as normal. As of Thursday night, power was fully restored in Nicholas County, per PowerOutages.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 FOX 56 News. MOREHEAD CITY, N.C. (WNCT) Carteret Community College welcomed students back to campus for the first day of classes. As classes started, so did the excitement for another school year. According to a study from WalletHub.com, Carteret Community College ranks highly compared to other community colleges in the state. I love Carteret Community College, I love how diverse we are, student body president Marley Ward said. You could be sitting next to someone who is just like you. You could be sitting next to a mother and a father or someone whos working and changing jobs. And its just such a lovely, diverse environment. The college strives to make a positive impact and students and the local community by catering to the needs of employers around Carteret County. For more information, click on the video above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Legionella bacteria was identified in the water system of Allegria Village, a senior-living community in Dearborn, where investigators from the Wayne County Department of Health, Human & Veterans Services now are working to determine the cause of death for two residents who had Legionnaires' disease and died in June and July. Dr. Avani Sheth, chief medical officer and division director of clinical care services for the county, said "immediate response efforts" have begun in consultation with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Allegria Village, Sheth said, is working on "disinfection and remediation of affected areas, temporary water restrictions and provision of alternative water sources where necessary, ongoing environmental testing to ensure effectiveness of remediation efforts, and educating residents and staff on seeking prompt medical evaluation if they develop symptoms." The Henry Ford Village senior living community photographed on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, in Dearborn. The 1,038-unit community declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2020. It was sold and renamed Allegria Village. The residential complex, formerly known as Henry Ford Village, is on Ford Road in Dearborn and provides independent and assisted living for people ages 55 and older, along with skilled nursing and memory care, its website says, on a 35-acre gated property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legionella bacteria lives in wet and warm environments and can cause a serious type of pneumonia called Legionnaires' disease, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Legionnaires' disease can be deadly, especially when it infects vulnerable people, such as those older than 50, smokers and former smokers, those with chronic lung diseases, people with weakened immune systems because of other illnesses such as diabetes, cancer or kidney failure, and people who take immune-suppressing medications. Legionella bacteria can grow in cooling towers, hot-water tanks, large plumbing systems, showers/faucets and fountains, and can infect people when they inhale mist, aerosolized droplets or vapor. It does not spread from person to person, but also can sicken people if they aspirate contaminated drinking water (when it accidentally goes into the lungs or "down the wrong pipe" while drinking). A Legionnaires' disease outbreak sickened 90 people in Genesee County from 2014-2015, killing 12. A study published by the state health department found the majority of the people sickened in that outbreak had exposure to McLaren Flint Hospital. The outbreak ended after the hospital superheated its water system and installed a secondary disinfection mechanism, the report said. Legionella pneumophila bacteria. Legionnaires disease, Pontiac fever, acute pneumonia. At Allegria Village, in addition to two deaths from earlier this summer that remain under investigation, there also was a case of Legionnaires' disease that was not fatal in August 2024, said Kimberly Harry, public information officer for the Wayne County Department of Health, Human & Veterans Services (WCDHVS), in an email message to the Free Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As of right now, we are not aware of any new cases since the one in June and the one in July," she said. "However, Allegria Village is encouraging everyone to seek prompt medical attention if they develop symptoms. "The investigation and response are ongoing, and Allegria Village is encouraging anyone who develops symptoms to see a health care provider. " Legionnaires' disease symptoms can include cough, fever, headaches, shortness of breath, muscle aches, confusion, nausea and diarrhea, according to the CDC. Legionnaires' disease: Wayne County, state health officials investigating Dearborn cases Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, the county health department said it routinely investigates Legionella cases ... to assess risk factors, identify potential sources of exposure, and, when indicated, recommend control measures in collaboration with MDHHS and CDC guidance. "Prompt investigation of cases, especially in higher-risk settings, is essential to reduce risk and maintain a safe environment. WCHHVS continues to work closely with Allegria Village and MDHHS to implement immediate control measures to protect residents and staff. The investigation and response are ongoing at this time. Allegria Village spokesperson Lexi Cousino said its leaders are "actively engaged in addressing the matter with the highest level of diligence" with the help of the state and county health departments and IWC Innovations, a Indianapolis-based company that says it specializes in "legionella remediation and prevention, water treatment, and water management solutions." In a statement, Cousino said: "As part of our ongoing response, our water management team has completed a chemical sanitization of the affected water system, and we are continuing to monitor the situation closely. These actions are part of our broader water management and safety protocols that are regularly reviewed and updated as necessary." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: New York firm wins auction to buy Henry Ford Village out of bankruptcy She did not say whether any other residents have reported symptoms of Legionnaires' disease. "As Allegria Village Independent living operates as a senior apartment community and not a licensed healthcare facility, we are not privy to individual resident health information," she said. "Therefore, we are unable to comment on the medical status of any resident in our independent living community. "We will continue to cooperate fully with all agencies involved and take every necessary step to ensure a safe living environment for our residents." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katie Doyal-Rabhi, director of communications for the city of Dearborn, said the Dearborn Department of Public Health is not involved in the response and investigation of legionella contamination in the water system at Allegria Village. The property, she said, has not been cited for any code violations by the city. Contact Kristen Shamus: kshamus@freepress.com. Subscribe to the Detroit Free Press. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Legionella bacteria detected in Dearborn senior living water system A police boss has pledged to pay for additional CCTV on a high street after anti-social behaviour led to shopkeepers saying they were "scared to go to work". Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones met with businesses to discuss her plans. It comes after people working on Shirley High Street, Southampton, said last month they were being targeted by teens and young people causing "chaos" in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the incidents Jones said she was "very concerned by what she has seen here" and will give it the "full force of the law". The PCC vowed to work with Southampton City Council to pay for more CCTV and for security to be on the high street and the surrounding area for the next 10 weeks, working closely with the police. Naani Shaik runs a subway store that was targeted by youths [BBC] A video recorded by Naani Shaik in Subway showed a group of young people smashing the store window in July. Mr Shaik said: "It's really good... Donna Jones responded very well. She planned some better plans I would say." Muhammad Usman, manager of Phone Hub added: "We don't know if this will work or it will improve but we hope and what I've noticed is they are taking it serious now." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 150,000 for the project will come from the PCC's anti-social behaviour fund. Jones also shared concerns that not enough is being done to punish those involved and added that she will make sure that those responsible are "brought before the courts". You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X, or Instagram. More on this story Related internet links BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) A California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation employee who told authorities he saw nothing wrong with viewing child pornography in the privacy of his home has died, prosecutors said. As a result, the case against Mark Anthony Bellino was dismissed during a hearing Wednesday in Superior Court. Hed been out on bail at the time of his death. Bellino was 66 and worked as an office technician in the mental health facility of Tehachapis California Correctional Institution when he was arrested in April 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man, 72, sentenced to lifetime sex offender registration in child porn case A search warrant was served in the 300 block of E Street after investigators received a report that illicit images were uploaded by an IP address linked to him, police said. Bellino appeared surprised by the seriousness of the investigation, police said in court documents. When asked why, he said, Because I dont see what I did wrong in the privacy of my own home, according to the documents. Bellino told police he clicked on child pornographic images out of curiosity. He responded not necessarily when asked if those images should be illegal, and said viewing them didnt hurt anyone, according to the documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. UPDATE: A man who walked away from a Male Community Reentry Program early Thursday morning has been apprehended. Officials with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said Felipe Rodriguez was captured just before 5 p.m. on Thursday without incident in Bakersfield. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is searching for a man who walked away from a Male Community Reentry Program early Thursday morning in Kern County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials with the CDCR were alerted that Felipe Rodriguez, 46, walked out of a program facility in Bakersfield around 5:25 a.m. Rodriguez is described as 5 feet, 10 inches tall and weighs about 125 pounds. CDCR officials said he was last seen wearing blue jeans, a white undershirt and a gray sweat shirt. His last known location was near Brundage Lane and South Owens Street. Rodriguez was received from San Luis Obispo County on July 18, 2022 for a four year burglary sentence. Officials said he has been housed at the facility in Kern since June 23, 2025. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact law enforcement at 911 or Special Agent Sal Herrera at 559-217-0022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. [Attached Video: Kenny describes his ride on Cedar Points new tilt rollercoaster] SANDUSKY, Ohio (WJW) Cedar Points annual HalloWeekends is right around the corner, and the park is now hiring for all fall positions. According to a media release, pay for most jobs starts at $20 per hour. Park officials said they are looking for everyone from high school and college students to career professionals and retirees. Theres reportedly a wide variety of positions with flexible scheduling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stimulus check 2025? What to know To help secure job candidates, Cedar Point is hosting a Fall Hiring Event for potential applicants to learn more about job opportunities and potentially be hired right on the spot. According to park officials, applicants who are hired during the event will receive a free voucher to enjoy the newest attraction at the parks HalloWeekends event The Conjuring: Beyond Fear. Exotic lizards thriving in Ohios wild Cedar Point employees also receive park perks like in-park discounts, reward and recognition programs, exclusive associate-only events, free tickets for family and friends, on-site housing for those who qualify, and free admission to any Six Flags park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fall Hiring Event will take place Aug. 18-20 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Cedar Point Hiring & Training Center, 2206 Cleveland Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870. In addition, the amusement park needs to fill a host of positions for HalloWeekends, including for what Cedar Point is calling a new SCREAMium experience. CLICK HERE for those details. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. The Erie Community of Caring honored the legacy of its founder on Thursday, on the day she would have turned 99. Mother Mary Beth Kennedy built a legacy of kindness and philanthropy not just in Erie, but even across the world in Africa. Erie County veterans get a special visit from therapy dogs On Thursday morning, that legacy was honored across the street from the Community of Caring building on East 8th Street, where friends, family and government officials joined together in memory of the organizations founder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local representatives took the stage to make proclamations in Kennedys name, declaring August as Human Kindness Month in Pennsylvania. Warren Co. woman, breast cancer survivor wins $2 million from PA Lottery Mother Kennedy was a woman of passion and love and kindness. Her whole model was love can change the world, and we just feel that, the mayor has made this kindness month, and that if we could all be more kind to each other, what a better place it would be to live in, said Chris Tombaugh, executive director of the Community of Caring. Mother Kennedy died in January of 2020, but her legacy still lives on through the Community of Carings work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com. (NewsNation) Blake Livelys lawsuit against It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni for sexual harassment and a hostile work environment mentioned several other celebrities. Heres a list of the stars named in the suit: Taylor Swift One of the most recognizable names on the list was Livelys close friend Taylor Swift. The lawsuit showed that Baldonis crisis management team wrote an email to Baldoni on Aug. 6, 2024, worried about the story circulating on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Swift reveals theory behind lyrical Easter eggs We have seen the most innocuous issues turn giant due to socials or the hugest crises have no effect on social whatsoever, the crisis management expert wrote to Baldoni, according to US Weekly. You just cannot tell at this stage. But, BL does have some of the same TS fanbase so we will be taking it extremely seriously. The complaint revealed a scenario planning document, where Baldonis team considered planting stories about the weaponization of feminism and how people like Taylor Swift, have been accused of utilizing these tactics to bully into getting what they want. Taylor Swift attends the 67th Grammy Awards on Feb. 02, 2025 in Los Angeles. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) The social team are now worried about Blake activating the Taylor Swift fan base, which is a major concern, PR specialist Katie Case wrote in the Aug. 7, 2024, letter to Baldonis team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With this in mind and to ensure Justin and the Studio are 100% protected moving forward, they have now changed the fee to $30,000 per month due to the uptick in social chatter, she said. Ryan Reynolds According to text messages in court records, Baldoni claimed that Ryan Reynolds, Livelys husband, had blocked him and his production company Wayfarer Studios on Instagram. Blake Lively case heats up as Perez Hilton slams lawyer, calls judge sexy We should have a plan for IF she does the same when [the] movie comes out, Baldoni wrote of Lively in a text exchange with a publicist. Just want you guys to have a plan. Plans make me feel more at ease. NEW YORK, NEW YORK JULY 22: Ryan Reynolds attends the Deadpool & Wolverine World Premiere at the David H. Koch Theater on July 22, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images for Disney) In his countersuit against Reynolds and Lively, which was eventually tossed by a judge in June, Baldoni accused the Deadpool star of becoming unhinged in a meeting, claiming Reynolds berated him during a heated meeting at the couples home, where he aggressively accused Baldoni of a string of offenses against his wife, including fat-shaming her. Hailey Bieber Livelys complaint showed text messages, where Baldoni sent a screenshot of an X thread claiming Hailey Biebers history of bullying women, according to the text, writing, This is what we would need. LONDON, ENGLAND MAY 17: Hailey Bieber attends the Rhode UK launch party with Hailey Bieber at Chiltern Firehouse on May 17, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for Rhode) Blake Lively says Justin Baldoni smear campaign is ongoing Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick, and Leighton Meester In another scenario planning document that Us Weekly reviewed, the Jane the Virgin stars crisis management team brought up Livelys past working relationships with Ben Affleck, who she worked with in The Town; Keighton Meester, who she co-starred with in Gossip Girl; and Anna Kendrick, her co-star in A Simple Favor and Another Simple Favor. LOS ANGELES, CA APRIL 23: Ben Affleck is seen on April 23, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by PG/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images) Leighton Meester at the Elie Saab Fall RTW 2025 fashion show as part of Paris Fashion Week held at Palais de Tokyo on March 8, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by River Callaway/WWD via Getty Images) BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA JUNE 01: Anna Kendrick attends the 85th annual Peabody Awards at Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel on June 01, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/WireImage) Our recommended approach would be to provide reporters who reach out for comment, should it be obvious shes referring to you, with the appropriate background information (listed in Scenario 1) to ensure their stories are balanced and the speculation can be turned to another one of the many people shes had issues working with (Leighton Meester, Anna Kendrick, Ben Affleck, etc.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation. A decorated chefs Beverly Hills restaurant has temporarily closed after part of its exhaust system went up in flames on Tuesday evening. Crews with the Beverly Hills Fire Department were seen rapidly handling the fire around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday at 9388 S. Santa Monica Boulevard. Smoke was not visible in footage provided by Citizen.com, but firefighters were seen urgently going into offense mode, piling into the second floor of the restaurant. Funke, known for its handcrafted pasta, posted an announcement on its website and social media accounts to let customers know of the temporary closure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to the calm cooperation of everyone present, our staff and guests were evacuated swiftly and safely, wrote the owner, Evan Funke, who has been described as Los Angeles best pasta maker. Were relieved to share that all building safety systems functioned exactly as designed. Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) A message posted to Funkes website is seen after the restaurant caught fire on Aug. 12, 2025. (FunkeLA.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Workers are seen evacuating from a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Crews are seen responding to a fire at Funke, a restaurant in Beverly Hills. August 2025. (Citizen.com) Funke also thanked the Beverly Hills Fire Department for its expert handling of the situation. According to a report by the L.A. Times, firefighters remained at the scene until 10:30 p.m. The statement also let guests know that if they had reservations for this week, the Funke team would reach out personally to arrange alternative accommodations at Evan Funkes other restaurants, Mother Wolf in Hollywood and Felix Trattoria in Venice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King Fire burns nearly 500 acres in northern Los Angeles County The L.A. Times reported Funke opened in May 2023 and generated local and national praise for its hyper-regional focus. On its menu, each pasta dish details the region in Italy where Funke first tried it, and the name of the woman who taught him how to make it, the article said. A reopening date for the Italian restaurant was not immediately disclosed. Alexis Lewis contributed to this report. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. NEW YORK STATE (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) Starting in September, Governor Kathy Hochuls plan to eliminate cell phone use in schools goes into full effect, and all schools were allowed to enact their own plans to comply with the mandate. On Thursday, August 14, the Governors Office implemented a website to give parents the information they need as the first day of school gets closer. What follows are the policies from local schools, as well as what you and your student needs to know about the upcoming school year. Oneida County Adirondack: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Adirondack Central School makes the following exceptions to the cell phone ban: Health & Safety: Where necessary for managing a students healthcare, or in the event of an emergency. Language Needs: When needed by a student for translation services. Student Caregivers: On a case-by-case basis for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and wellbeing of a family member. Such use will be permitted only upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor. Legal Requirements: When the use of such devices is required by law. In the event a student needs to be contacted, each schools main office will have a phone for student use. Written notification on how to contact students during the day will be provided to parents and guardians at the beginning of the school year and upon enrollment. Elementary school students will use their cubbies for storage, middle school students will keep devices in their storage cases or lockers, while high school students will use their lockers along with a school-provided padlock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full policy can be found at the link here. Camden The Camden Central School makes the following exceptions to the cell phone ban: Health & Safety: Where necessary for managing a students healthcare, or in the event of an emergency. Language Needs: When needed by a student for translation services. Student Caregivers: On a case-by-case basis, for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member. Such use will be permitted only upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor. Legal Requirements: When the use of such devices is required by law. IEP Plans: When a students IEP requires one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the event a student needs to be contacted, each schools main office will have a phone for student use. Written notification on how to contact students during the day will be provided to parents and guardians at the beginning of the school year and upon enrollment. Students will be required to put internet-enabled devices into their lockers or cubbies during the school day. The full policy can be found at the link here. Clinton Parents may request an exemption from the cell phone from the Building Principal, and must include documentation from medical or educational professionals. Elementary school students will not be permitted to bring personal electronic devices to school. Middle and high school students will be required to put their devices in lockers as soon as they enter the school building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full policy can be found at the link here. Holland Patent Exceptions to the Holland Patent cell phone ban are authorized by the respective buildings principal, or the District. These also include, but are not limited to: Management of a medical condition, It is part of the students IEP or 504 plan, Translation purposes, or Where otherwise required by law. If students must be contacted, they may be contacted at each schools Principals Office. If there is a medical concern, parents and guardians may contact the schools respective Nurses Office. Students in all schools will be required to store their devices in their lockers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full policy can be found at the link here. New Hartford All Internet-Enabled and other electronic devices including hand-held games, MP3 players, earbuds, etc. will be prohibited during the school day in the New Hartford School District. Middle and high school students must turn off all devices and store them in the students locker during the day. Elementary school students are prohibited from possessing or using devices on school grounds during the school day or on school buses. Exceptions to the New Hartford cell phone policy must be requested by parents to their respective building principals. Students leaving and/or returning to school during the school day may retrieve their devices from their storage location. However, it may not be used while on school grounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Violations of the policy will result in confiscation by a faculty or staff member. If it is necessary to contact a student, parents and guardians may do so via the main office or counseling office. Parents and guardians may also contact the school nurses office for any medical needs. The full policy can be found at the link here. New York Mills No policy has been submitted to the Governors Office by the New York Mills School District. Contact the district for further information. Oriskany Students are authorized to have access to what the district calls simple cellphones that is, phones without internet capability or access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exceptions to Oriskanys cell phone policy are: Authorization by a building principal or the district, Management of a students healthcare, In the event of an emergency, When it is part of an IEP or 504 plan, Translation purposes, when approved by a school psychologist, or otherwise required by law. Students found in violation of the policy will have their devices confiscated by staff, and parents will be called. After the second offense, students will be given a written referral, and after a third offense, the students parent or guardian will be called in for a meeting with the school principal. In case of an emergency, parents and guardians may call either the principals office for general matters, the nurses office for medical matters, and the guidance counselors office if no other contact can be made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the school day, students will be required to store their devices in storage or in lockers, and at no time should the phone be visible. The full policy can be found at the link here. Remsen Remsen has not provided a device policy to the state. Contact the school district for more information. Rome City School District Elementary school students (grades PreK through 6) in the Rome City School District will be discouraged from bringing devices to school. Any device that is brought to school must be silenced and kept in a locked storage container in the classroom or main office. High school students (grades 7 through 12) will store their devices which must be turned off in a locked box in their ninth-period class or an alternate location deemed appropriate by school leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents or guardians may request an exception for their children to their respective building principal. Healthcare exceptions must include documentation from an appropriate healthcare professional. Violating devices will be held in the schools main office until the end of the school day. For subsequent violations, the offending device may be held for longer periods of time, and parents will be called in to pick them up. The district also said in their policy that assignments on the detrimental impact of social media on mental health may be utilized as well. The full policy can be found at the link here. Sauquoit Valley Students in the Sauquoit Valley Central School District will be required to store their devices in their student lockers. Individual teachers may not collect phones at the start of class and return them at the end, as it is noted it violates the new law. In an emergency, parents and guardians may contact the schools respective principals office for general matters, the nurses office for medical matters, or the school counselors office if neither office can be reached. The full policy can be found at the link here. Utica City School District Dr. Christopher Spence released the districts plan in July. You can check out the full policy here. Vernon-Verona-Sherrill No policy has been submitted to the Governors Office by the Vernon-Verona-Sherrill School District. Contact the district for further information. Waterville The Waterville Central School District noted in their policy that storage pouches will eventually be made available to students. Until they are available, high school students will place their devices inside their lockers. Elementary school students up to fifth grade will place their devices in their lockers throughout the school year. Medical exemptions will require a form and approval from the districts medical director. The full policy can be found at the link here. Westmoreland All devices are prohibited in the Westmoreland Central School District, except in the following situations: Educational purposes, Managing a students healthcare or IEP, Translation services, A student giving care to a family member, as determined by a school administrator, and wherever required by law. Students must store all devices in either their locked locker (a lock must be purchased from the district), pouches provided by the district, storage units in the main offices, or other district-approved places. The full policy can be found at the link here. Whitesboro All Internet-enabled devices are prohibited in the Whitesboro Central School District, except in the following situations: Educational purposes, Managing a students healthcare or IEP, Translation services, A student giving care to a family member, as determined by a school administrator, and wherever required by law. Students are authorized to have access to simple cell phones, however, Internet-enabled devices will be required to be stored in personalized storage or locked lockers. In the event of an emergency, parents and guardians may call their respective building, who will contact the student for them. Violators will have their devices confiscated, and returned according to the schools code of conduct. The full policy can be found at the link here. Herkimer County Central Valley Academy At Central Valley Academy, internet-enabled devices are prohibited for use during the following times: Grades Kindergarten through Four from 8:30 am until 2:40 pm Grades Five through 12 from 7:30 am until 2:30 pm During times when students are allowed to use internet-enabled devices, students are not allowed to: Take photographs or video of others without their consent. Audio record others without their consent. Possess or send inappropriate images or inappropriate written references. Harass, discriminate against, demean or ridicule another person(s) or group. Cheat on school assignments by sending or receiving confidential academic or testing information. For purposes prohibited by SED regulations or state or federal law. The district will provide to each school a locked storage box for students to store their phones. Students may also leave their devices at home, in a locked car, or in the school office. Students will be authorized to have access to simple cell phones. In case of an emergency, parents and guardians may contact their respective schools principal, assistant principal or school nurse. The full policy can be found at the link here. Dolgeville Students will have access to simple cell phones, however, the use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited, except in these situations: The student has been authorized by a teacher, the Building Principal, or the District to use an Internet-enabled device for educational purposes during instructional time; Where the use is necessary to manage the students medical condition; In the event of an emergency; Where the use of an Internet-enabled device is part of the students Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan; Where it is needed for translation purposes; On a case-by-case basis, upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor, for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member; or Where otherwise required by law. Dolgeville students will be assigned and use a Yondr pouch to secure their phones, which will then be stored in their assigned lockers. The full policy can be found at the link here. Frankfort-Schuyler The use of Internet-enabled devices is prohibited at Frankfort-Schuyler, except in the following circumstances: The student has been authorized by a teacher, the Building Principal, or the District to use an Internet-enabled device for educational purposes during instructional time; Where the use is necessary to manage the students medical condition; In the event of an emergency; Where the use of an Internet-enabled device is part of the students Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan; Where it is needed for translation purposes; On a case-by-case basis, upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor, for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member; or Where otherwise required by law. Violators of the policy will be punished as follows: First offense: Confiscation and one lunch detention. Parents will be contacted and a meeting will be held to review the Acceptable Use Policy. Second Offense: Confiscation, and a meeting with the parent, student and administrator at the end of the day. Students will also be required to attend one two-hour after school detention and turn their phone into the main office for 30 days. Third Offense: Confiscation, parent/student/administrator meeting at the end of the day, and two two-hour after school detentions. Students will also be required to turn their phone in to the main office for the rest of the school year. Each first period classroom, the main office, guidance office, nurses office and district office will have a lock box for students to store their phones. The full policy can be found at the link here. Herkimer The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Herkimer, except in these situations: The student has been authorized by a teacher, the Building Principal, or the District to use an Internet-enabled device for educational purposes during instructional time Where the use is necessary to manage the students medical condition In the event of an emergency; Where the use of an Internet-enabled device is part of the students Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan.Where it is needed for translation purposes; On a case-by-case basis, upon review and determination by a school psychologist, school social worker, or school counselor, for a student caregiver who is routinely responsible for the care and well-being of a family member; or Where otherwise required by law. Students will be required to store their devices in their lockers during the day. In case of an emergency, parents or guardians may call the main office, the nurses office, or the school counselors office. The full policy can be found at the link here. Little Falls Students will have access to simple cell phones and other authorized devices. However, any other devices not used for educational purposes are prohibited. No storage rules have been made at the time of posting in the district. The full policy can be found at the link here. Mount Markham Students in the Mount Markham school district must store their phones either in their homeroom lockers or their first period classrooms for the following period of time: Elementary School: 8:20 am 2:35 pm Middle School: 8:20 am 2:45 pm High School: 8:20 am 2:55 pm. Violators of the policy will have their devices confiscated and a conference with the student and their parent or guardian will be scheduled. The offending device will be returned at the end of the school day. The full policy can be found at the link here. Owen D. Young (Van Hornesville) No policy has been found by the Owen D. Young School District in the websites records. Contact the district for further information. Poland Elementary School students are prohibited from bringing personal internet-enabled devices in the Poland Central School District. Middle and High School students may bring their devices, however, they must be powered off when they arrive and stored in student lockers. Exemptions must be requested for review by an administrator and must include documentation, at which point the least disruptive device may be used. Violators will face the following consequences: First offense: the offending device is immediately confiscated and the student may collect it at the end of the day. If the device is not immediately surrendered, a parent must come and pick up the device. Second offense: the device is confiscated and the student will serve one detention. A parent or guardian will be called to retrieve a device. If it is not immediately surrendered, the student will serve two detention periods. Parents must provide transportation if a bus is not available at the end of the students detention period (from 3 pm to 5 pm). Third offense: The device is confiscated, and the offending student will serve two detention periods. The student will also be restricted from any extracurricular activities on the day of the offense. Devices may be used on district vehicles as long as it does not pose a concern for the driver to be distracted. The full policy can be found at the link here. Town of Webb/Old Forge Students in the Town of Webb Free School District are encouraged not to bring digital devices to school. If they do, they are not to be used at all during the school day for elementary and middle school students. High School students may not use devices during instructional times. The full policy can be found at the link here. West Canada Valley The use of electronic devices is prohibited in the West Canada Valley School District at the following times: For Pre-K students through sixth grade: 8:55 am to 3:20 pm. For students in grades seven through 12: 7:30 am until 2:20 pm. During that time, electronic devices will be stored in the school office, in a locked car, or in a school-provided locked storage box. The full policy can be found at the link here. Utica Academy of Science Elementary School students are strongly discouraged from bringing devices to school. If they are, they must remain off and stored in the students backpack. Middle and high school students must store devices in designated lockers or as directed by school administration before their homeroom period begins. Devices must remain off and secured until dismissal. Devices may not be used anywhere on school grounds or at any time during the school day unless authorized or permitted. Violations of the districts policy are as follows: 1st Offense: Device Confiscated and returned to parent or guardian 2nd Offense: Device confiscated and held for five calendar days 3rd offense: Device confiscated and held for 10 calendar days. There is also a mandatory parent meeting scheduled, and a contract written up for the offending student. 4th offense: Device confiscated and held for 15 calendar days, and a formal disciplinary hearing is scheduled. Refusal to surrender the device: The student will be sent home and issued a referral for insubordination. Exceptions may be arranged with the school dean. Families can send messages to students through the school office or Class Dojo if it is used in your school building. The full policy can be found at the link here. Otsego County Cherry Valley-Springfield Cherry Valley-Springfield students are prohibited from using internet-enabled devices during the school day. Elementary students are discouraged from bringing them at all, and if they are brought, they must be kept silenced and in the students personal cubby or locker. High school students will be given individual pouches to put their devices in, where they will be stored in lockers until the end of the day. Violations of the policy will require that the offending device be held in the school office until the end of the school day and parents will be notified. Other punishments will be handed out as follows: First offense: One day of lunch detention. Second offense: After-school detention and a parent conference with administration. Further offenses: In-school suspension. The parent must retrieve the device. The full policy can be found at the link here. Cooperstown The use of electronic devices is prohibited during the following regular school hours: Elementary (Pre-K to 6): 8 am to 2:30 pm. Grades 7 through 12: 8 am to 2:45 pm. Any electronic device brought to school must be silenced and put away in cubbies or either in a teachers storage container (elementary school) or a locker (junior high/high school). Students may possess devices before and after the instructional day. Violations of the policy will be enforced as follows: First offense: device will be confiscated and parent will be notified. All other offenses: device will be confiscated and parent must retrieve the device. The full policy can be found at the link here. Edmeston Students will be required to turn off all electronic devices that are not school-issued by the first period bell each day. They will be required to place them in the storage box in their last period class. If a student is to be dismissed early or is tardy, they can drop their devices off at the security booth. Violations of the policy will be enforced as follows: First offense: The student is issued a detention and offending devices will be stored in the main office for one week. Second offense: The student is issued two detention sessions and devices are stored in the main office for one month. Third and all other offenses: The student is issued three detentions and devices are stored in the main office for the remainder of the school year. The parent or guardian is responsible for picking up offending devices. The full policy can be found at the link here. Gilbertsville-Mount Upton The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Gilbertsville-Mount Upton, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Students will be required to store their devices in either their lockers or in the administrative office. Pouches will be provided for those who wish to use them. The full policy can be found at the link here. Laurens The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Gilbertsville-Mount Upton, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Students will be required to store their devices in their school lockers. The full policy can be found at the link here. Milford Elementary school students are encouraged to leave their devices at home. Middle and high school students will be required to place their devices in their lockers with a district-assigned lock on them. Students will be prohibited to use their devices between 8:03 am and 3:02 pm anywhere on school grounds. The full policy can be found at the link here. Morris The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Morris, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Students will be required to either place their devices in their lockers, designated classroom storage bins, or a secure area in the main office. The full policy can be found at the link here. Oneonta City Schools No policy has been found by the Oneonta City School District in the websites records. Contact the district for further information. Richfield Springs The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Richfield Springs, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Students may keep their devices in their assigned lockers in the high school, or in student cubicles at the elementary school. The full policy can be found at the link here. Schenevus No policy has been found by the Schenevus School District in the websites records. Contact the district for further information. Unatego The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Unatego, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Students may store their devices in one of three different ways: keeping the device in their backpack, an unlockable pouch, or in their lockers. The full policy can be found at the link here. Worcester Students in the Worcester Central School District will be required to turn off all devices by the start of first period each day until the final bell at 2:58 pm. The full policy can be found at the link here. Madison/Lewis Counties Brookfield The use of devices is allowed before and after the school day only in Brookfield. All devices must remain out of sight for the entire school day. The full policy can be found at the link here. Hamilton Students in the elementary school are required to store their devices in a lockable locker in each classroom. Middle and high school students will be assigned a lockable case in which they will place their devices. Exemption forms can be found on the schools website. The full policy can be found at the link here. Morrisville-Eaton Students will be allowed access to simple cell phones, however, other devices will be required to be stored in their student lockers. The full policy can be found at the link here. Oneida Students will be required to store their devices in their lockers or cubbies during the day. The full policy can be found at the link here. South Lewis The use of internet-enabled devices will be prohibited in Unatego, except in these situations: Educational use, Health and Safety, Language needs, Student caregivers, Legal requirements, and 504/IEP plans. Student devices must be powered off and placed either in their lockers or bins in the main office. Other places for storage may be approved by the school principal. The full policy can be found at the link here. The Governors office has also implemented a one-stop shop for more information on the bell-to-bell ban. You can access that at the link 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 WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. As the new school year rolls around, OzarksFirst is checking with districts across the Ozarks about how they plan on implementing the new cell phone ban for the school day, sparked statewide from Senate Bill 68. This round up is simply a summary, and parents are encouraged to visit the students districts code of conduct for more specifics. Springfield Public Schools SPS is following the state law by banning all personal electronic communication devices, including cell phones, personal tablets, smart watches, headphones, or a device capable of initiating, receiving, storing or viewing information or communications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district says students can wear GARMIN fitness watches when in online physical education classes. Exceptions include students for specific educational or health needs or have a 504 plan. Their policy applies to all students in the district. Parents are encouraged to contact the schools to reach out to their children, or students are still able to communicate with family over school issued tablets or chromebooks. Violations of the policy include punishments ranging from conferences to multiple days of out-of-school suspensions. Ozark Schools Ozark is also banning cell phones, aligned with SB68, asking them to be out of sight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smartwatches are allowed but will be treated like a phone if a student uses them to text, call or stream. Violations can result in a device being held at the office until the end of day, with other punishments including lunch detentions, in-school suspensions, up to an out-of-school suspension. Ozark Schools also encourage parents to reach out to schools to contact their children. Those policies above pertain to high school students. For Jr. High students, the policies are primarily the same, but the punishments are lighter at first, but the range is the same. Rogersville Schools Rogersville Schools are also following the new state law, calling for students to have devices turned off and away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They allow exemptions for medical or educational needs. The district says a personal device is a cell phone, tablet, gaming device, headphones, smart watches. Students who violate the policy will be asked to turn in their device to the office. Additional violations will be assigned as outlined in the student handbook. Refusing to turn over the device will result in more actions. Republic Schools Republic Schools say electronic devices (phones, personal tablets, smartwatches, personal laptops, gaming devices, A.I. glasses, earbuds) are not allowed during class, during breaks, recess, lunch, between classes or during study halls or assemblies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exceptions are only allowed before and after school, in an emergency, defined as a serious, expected and dangerous situation that requires immediate action, or if its required as part of a students IEP or 504 plan. Waynesville Schools Information sent to OzarksFirst from the Waynesville School District is outlined below for High School students. Nuisance Items/Electronic Devices/Cameras The use of items such as, but not limited to, games, sound making devices, cameras, cell phones, smart watches, wireless earbuds/headphones, and tablets. Use of personal electronic communication is prohibited during the school day. These items may NOT be used, displayed or heard during the school day either inside or outside the classroom, unless the teacher has given approval for educational purposes. All personal electronic communication devices must be stored for the entire school day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cameras, Use of (see Board policy KKB) Students are prohibited from using camera phones or other electronic devices to take visual or audio recordings or images, whether in digital or other form, during any class or instructional period during the school day, unless the use is part of the instructional program, required by district-sponsored class or activity, or otherwise permitted by the building principal. Students are prohibited from using camera phones/photographic devices in a facility or location at which students or others have a reasonable expectation of privacy and in staff offices, staff areas or records storage areas. Additional distractive nuisance items such as, but not limited to, sound making devices, skate boards, skate shoes and any other item that detracts from the educational process are prohibited. Personal electronic devices are carried at the students risk. The school assumes no responsibility for their loss or theft, nor will effort be made to search for or retrieve them. Nuisance items may not be picked up until after 2:35 p.m. on the day the item was confiscated. Lack of cooperation by student will result in additional consequences. First Offense: Items confiscated by staff, warning and parent/guardian contact; student will claim item after 2:35 p.m. Second Offense: Items confiscated by staff, one detention, parents/guardians must claim items after 2:35 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Third Offense: Items confiscated by staff, one Saturday school, parent/guardian must claim item after 2:35 p.m. Fourth and Subsequent Offense: Item will be confiscated by staff, in-school suspension, up to 10 days out-of-school suspension, shortterm alternative suspension program and/or recommendation to superintendent for up to 180 days out-of-school suspension and/or recommendation to board of education for expulsion. Parent/guardian must claim item after 2:35 p.m. Nixa Schools Information on Nixa Schools website from the schools High School Student/Family Handbook is outlined below In an effort to maintain a positive learning environment that is safe and free from distractions, personal electronic devices (cell phones, smart watches, AirPods/earbuds, headphones, Bluetooth speakers, MP3 players, portable video games, etc.) may not be displayed or used from the beginning of the school day until the end of the school day, including, but not limited to, instructional time, meal times, breaks, time between classes, and during study halls. At the start of the school day students will silence or power off their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices and place them in a location where they will not be seen. Cell phones may be used before school, after school, and during school when authorized by the teacher for educational purposes. This policy will be in effect for all students, except as permitted by RSMo 162.207.3(3). (For a complete definition of Personal Electronic Device and Use, refer to Board Policy JFCK and RSMo 162.207.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students are not allowed to use their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices at any point during the school day. There will be additional disciplinary consequences for students who use their cell phones at any time during the school day to: Take Pictures Record Videos Record Audio Students are not allowed to use their cell phones and other electronic personal communication devices at any point during the school day. There will be additional disciplinary consequences for students who use Cell Phones in the following forbidden locations: Locker Rooms Restrooms Other District Schools (i.e., during A+ tutoring, internships, child development activities, etc.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Potential consequences for personal electronic device violations include but are not limited to First Offense: principal/student conference, confiscation, detention, or in-school suspension. Subsequent Offense: confiscation, detention, in-school suspension, 1-180 days out-of-school suspension, or expulsion. Fair Grove Fair Grove uses Yondr pouches. Students put their devices in Do Not Disturb mode before placing in the pouch at the beginning of school, and at the end of the day are able to take their phones out. The district says students who need to use their device for medical reasons are given a pouch with Velcro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Violations of the policy or damage to the pouch range from 2 days of in-school suspension up to in-school suspension, 1-180 days of out-of-school suspension and the student can no longer bring any device to school. OzarksFirst reached out to school districts in Branson, Reeds Spring, Sparta, Dallas County, Bolivar, Willard, Ash Grove, Ava and Walnut Grove, but did not hear back. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. A new state law prohibits elementary and middle school students from using their cellphones at any point during the school day. "Those phones can be taken away," Palm Beach County Schools Superintendent Mike Burke said on Aug. 8 as he addressed back-to-school issues. "They can be sent to the office and held till the end of the day until the parent retrieves it. So we will be taking those measures." District policy stipulates that middle and elementary school students must power off cellphones and put them away upon entering school property. They can't use them at any point during the school day, including between classes, at lunch or on restroom breaks. New cellphone rules for elementary, middle school kids The new state law, which has an exception for medical emergencies and for students with individual education plans, does not change the rules for high school students. They can use their phones outside of instructional time such as between classes and during lunch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The phones must be put away during instructional time unless a teacher directs a student to use one for educational purposes. The cellphone rules for all students apply to smart watches, smart glasses and any other wireless device. If the rules are violated, the wireless device can be confiscated by school personnel, and the student can face discipline. Two years ago, Florida became the first state in the nation to ban cellphone use during instructional time despite the concerns of some parents, who worried about making it more difficult for students to use their cellphones during an emergency like a school shooting. Some teachers have said the high school prohibition against cellphone use during instructional time is unevenly enforced and that the phones remain an obstacle to teaching and learning. Should high schools have 'bell to bell' ban? Palm Beach County School Board member Edwin Ferguson has argued in favor of extending to high school students the "bell-to-bell" ban in place for middle and elementary school students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm definitely in favor of us creating a policy that prohibits cell use at the high school level as well, and here's the reason why: It is a huge distraction," Ferguson said during a board meeting in May. "I was at a school earlier this year, Palm Beach Lakes (High School), where a young student was so focused on looking at the cellphone that he almost broke his nose walking into a door. It's a problem, and I do think we should get our arms around it." Ferguson's colleagues on the board said they were not comfortable extending the ban to high school students, and the board took no action to do so. Board members did embrace the bell-to-bell ban for middle and elementary school students. Palm Beach County schools Superintendent Mike Burke does a double take on new signage at Tradewinds Middle School on the first day of the new school year in Greenacres on Aug, 11. The policy limits cellphone use during the school day. "I really do believe that cellphones are dangerous to our children," said School Board member Marcia Andrews, who worked for 35 years as an educator in the Palm Beach County School District. "They're on them too much, and we need to curb that." School administrators have discussed the ban with teachers, and there are reminders for students at school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At Tradewinds Middle in Greenacres, for example, a sign on a hallway wall read: "From Bell to Bell, There Is No Cell. Cell phone use is only allowed before and after school." Wayne Washington is a journalist covering education for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at wwashington@pbpost.com. Help support our work; subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Can my child use a cellphone at school? New rules spell it out For UNC Health Caldwell, in some ways, the coming years could look a lot like 2023. The recent passing of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act by Congress will remove Medicaid recipients who were added to the program when the state expanded Medicaid access in 2023. That expansion gave approximately 600,000 North Carolinians access to Medicaid, including approximately 6,000 Caldwell County residents. According to the North Carolina Medicaid Division of Health Benefits, 27,200 Caldwell County residents, or 33.7% of all residents, receive Medicaid benefits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starting in July 2027, that expansion will be rolled back which potentially leaves thousands of Caldwell County residents without health insurance, again. According to Brad Christoph, UNC Health Caldwells vice president of physician services, residents potentially losing coverage are the ones who need it the most. Its folks who are working, providing childcare or work several part-time jobs and are caregivers for sick family members, Christoph said. We dont always put value, as a society, on that type of care. These arent people sitting around at home with no jobs and nothing to do. They are so busy, they dont have the time to stop and take care of their health. Those are the folks I worry about losing their expansion coverage. The change in Medicaid coverage affects more than hospitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Helping Hands, the countys only free healthcare clinic anticipates more change as the law goes into effect. The most recent change was the expansion of Medicaid in December, 2023. We saw a pretty large portion of our patient population transition because they became eligible for Medicaid, said Brittany Bonn, executive director of Helping Hands. In 2024, Bonn said Helping Hands spent part of the year helping connect approximately 200 clients with new providers. Since then, we have recouped more than that number, she said. Weve remained very steady. Even with the expansion, Bonn said there are still people who do not qualify for Medicaid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There continues to be a gap between people who make a little too much to be eligible for Medicaid but not quite enough to pay for private insurance. Bonn said Helping Hands typically enrolls 15-30 new patients per month. She expects that number to grow. If Medicaid expansion is rescinded, well be the first call for a lot of patients, Bonn said. Were discussing how we will handle that and make sure we have the capacity to meet their needs. Bonn anticipates pharmacy coverage to be the first place the change will be seen and felt. Some patients may be able to keep their heath care provider but may lose access to help for medications. She expects Helping Hands to field many of those calls. To offset more potential patients, Bonn said the clinic has increased its provider coverage and added new volunteers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UNC Health Caldwells plan to offset any potential revenue loss is to continue investing in areas that have generated positive cash flow for the hospital. In the last two years, weve been doing a lot of things to grow in areas that are necessary, but profitable like cardiology, said David Lowry, UNC Health Caldwells chief executive officer. Whenever you have a service that is profitable, you can defray the expense of people who dont have insurance or services that the community needs that are not profitable. Weve also done things to innovate and be more efficient. As a small, rural hospital that gets reimbursed approximately only 30 cents for every dollar it bills Medicaid, finding new ways to generate revenue keeps UNC Caldwells doors open never ends. What I want to see is two years from now, we dont even need the Medicaid expansion money, Lowry said, (that) we can be free of that, not dependent upon that and be able to absorb the cost of providing care for those services that dont have reimbursement tied to it. It takes a lot of resources to get paid. JACKSON, Mich. (WLNS) A nonprofit dental program called New Smiles New Beginnings, is traveling across the community and is offering free dental services. Jazmyn Ragland, a Jackson native and dental hygienist with 13 years of experience, is looking to make a difference in the community. (WLNS) (WLNS) (WLNS) I want to be in the community, I want to make a difference, and I want to help just be the change, Ragland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ragland created New Smiles New Beginnings in 2023 shortly after graduating from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, and says the inspiration started when she was a clinical assistant, traveling to different areas and schools across Mid-Michigan. One of the barriers is lack of transportation, so to be able to go into these communities and see people where theyre at has been helpful for me and for them, Ragland said. John Willis III owns Isaiahs Hub Community Center and grew up with Ragland. He says services like these in underserved communities are crucial. Thats just a blessing in this neighborhood, a lot of families cant afford things like that, and so thats just a part of our mission, Willis III said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve come together to help families who cant afford to do things to get it done and make it easier for those families. Ragland says the most rewarding part of her work is the connection with her clients. Ive had some people who havent had cleanings in 20-30 years, says Ragland. I have some kids who are 12 years old and never had their teeth cleaned or have a lot of dental anxiety. And just being able to help those people and give back to my community, thats very rewarding. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHEYENNE The Wyoming Legislatures Select Committee on Gaming continued discussions on Friday of granting more local authority in allowing new gambling locations. This time, however, a conversation arose of approaching the matter differently, by maintaining the status quo of authority through the Wyoming Gaming Commission to issue permits, instead of counties or municipalities, and instead approaching local control through zoning rules. Rep. Steve Johnson, R-Cheyenne, put forth an amendment to the bill draft that would cut the section granting local authority for issuing simulcasting permits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson proposed that local authorities could deter businesses, if they choose, through zoning or land-use regulation changes. He said his reasoning was rooted in free market values, adding it would avoid corruption in local politics if elected officials have the authority to determine whether a certain business can come to their community. Sen. John Kolb, R-Rock Springs, said this change would just maintain the status quo and not offer new solutions to a system that needs to be addressed. He agreed that he doesnt want local corruption, but said the downside is greater than the upside with this change. We do have that, and its out of control, and thats why were talking about a bill to try to get control, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ... My two cents is, if we put this in here, we kill this bill. Thats what happens. And the purpose of us being here goes away for this year. Further, Kolb argued that it would be time consuming and confusing for the task force to gut the local authority section of the bill draft and add in new regulations regarding zoning or land-use rules. When Johnsons amendment was shot down by the voting members of the task force, Rep. Jayme Lien, R-Casper, proposed the Legislative Service Office draft a separate bill for the task forces next meeting that would approach granting local authority through those avenues Johnson suggested, maintaining ultimate permitting control within the WGC. Though Kolb voted against this motion, it was still passed, and the task force will consider both bill drafts at its meeting in Cheyenne next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matt Hall, legislative director for the Wyoming Association of Municipalities, said he likes the existing bill draft as it is written. As far as municipalities go, I think quite a few of them dont have specific zoning parts and ordinances that would address the gaming aspect of things. So, I think theyd have to create those, he said. Jerimiah Reiman, executive director of the Wyoming County Commissioners Association, added it is his sense that counties already have the zoning power that is being discussed. He also said that around half of the counties in Wyoming do not have zoning regulations, and he suspects they would not create zoning regulations anytime soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If thats the path that you go, that means that (those counties) will have no ability to have a say in whether these establishments should or shouldnt exist, how they should exist, where they should exist, etc., he said. Halt on new gambling locations Following this discussion, the select committee moved on to a bill draft that would place a three-year moratorium on new gambling locations and machines being built in Wyoming. If approved by the Legislature next year, this would go into effect April 1, 2026, and end March 31, 2029. Kolb described this draft bill as a fail-safe mechanism in case other legislation is not signed into law regarding gambling in Wyoming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The stakeholders representing the newest operator in the market, Cowboy Racing, opposed this move. Cowboy Racing is currently constructing the Thunder Plains live horse racing track east of Cheyenne, with hopes to fund most of its investment through off-track betting facilities. It is set to begin running live races next year. Though the company would have several months to apply and be approved for those locations, they would be prohibited from doing so beginning next April. Affie Ellis, legal counsel for Cowboy Racing, said she has serious concerns with this bill draft. Before suggesting an alternative, she provided statistics from the other operators in Wyoming. She said, in total, those companies have been approved to host 3,125 gambling machines but only have 2,144 in operation currently. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cowboy Racing, the new guy, theyve applied for 289 machines, literally a tenth of what their competitors are offering, she said. Her alternative solution requested those companies be required to build out those machines before being allowed to apply for new ones. Will Edwards, co-owner of Thunder Plains and Cowboy Racing, said that just a whisper of a moratorium causes grave concern regarding his investment. He said it could impact the investment his company has made in electrical infrastructure in Laramie County, potentially not being able to hold up his end of the deal if the moratorium were put in place. It allows existing operators to rest on their laurels and not have that competition that drives progress and drives new innovations and better product in the market, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The motion to carry forward discussion of this bill draft passed, and it will also be discussed at the task forces next meeting. Members of the committee said they will request adding a second day to their September meeting, which is currently only scheduled for one day, to hash out these two bill drafts, along with several other issues. Fear and confusion are spreading among Washington, DCs homeless population at the start of President Donald Trumps crackdown on encampments. Leaders from three prominent advocacy groups in the nations capital where about 800 people live on the streets on any given night told CNN theyre bracing for the worst, lobbying city officials to open up more shelter beds, and mulling potential lawsuits. Facing new pressure from Trump, DC officials are also grappling with the same broad question that other big cities have faced as they seek to get homeless people off the street: How to provide enough shelter space and services to accommodate them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres definitely a lot of chaos, fear and confusion, said Amber Harding, executive director of the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless, a nonprofit with hundreds of open cases. It doesnt help that the messaging from the federal government has been all over the place. And theres no communication or coordination with the DC government. Sweeps began Wednesday after a anxious few days where homeless residents and their allies waited to see who would be targeted, and which federal forces would be involved. Another major sweep took place Thursday morning at an encampment near a highway close to the vaunted Lincoln Memorial and Kennedy Center, where Trumps motorcade often passes through. Last week, he posted photos of this encampment on social media. Officials from DC agencies, social workers, advocacy groups and well-wishers helped homeless residents pack up their belongings and dismantle about a dozen tents. No federal law enforcement agents were on site, and a DC official told CNN the sweep was conducted solely by local authorities. One DC police officer patrolled traffic nearby. A woman with the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless, right, helps a woman who has been living at a tent encampment clear out her items, on Thursday. - Jacquelyn Martin/AP As part of Trumps stated goal to rescue DC from bloodshed, bedlam and squalor, he announced aggressive new moves this week to federalize the local police force and deploy National Guard troops in the city. He also declared that homeless people have to move out, IMMEDIATELY, and added, we will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House officials said theyll send homeless people to shelters or to jails if they refuse. But advocates claimed this would be unlawful, counterproductive and costly by disrupting existing efforts to move homeless people into shelters or permanent housing. And not everyone wants to move to a shelter. Heather Bernard, 55, a homeless woman who lives outside of a grocery store in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood of northwest DC, told CNN she prefers to stay on the streets until I get my house. Ive been to shelters and all that, Bernard said. People dont get along with me. Maybe they think Im a threat. They put me out at one, two or three in the morning, on snow days or wet days. Its their facility, so you cant fight it. When they say leave, you have to leave. The latest federal survey, released in December, found that there were about 770,000 homeless people in the United States the highest number on record, after a spike during the Covid-19 pandemic that still hasnt waned. Studies show that homeless Americans are disproportionately people of color, have mental illness or addiction, or are members of the LGBT community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to handle these people and their tents, particularly in areas that are busy or frequented by tourists, has plagued the mostly Democratic leaders in big US cities. A dispute over whether cities can ticket people for sleeping on the streets even reached the Supreme Court last year. Trump, with his unique authority over DC as president, has now taken matters into his own hands in the federal district. A homeless person sits at a bustop in Washington, DC's Dupont Circle, on Monday. - Ken Cedeno/Reuters How does this make us any safer? White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that DCs police department, which is now under the direct control of the Trump administration after he federalized the force, will use pre-existing laws that are already on the books to force homeless people to move into shelters or addiction treatment, or be susceptible to fines or jail time. This claim, and Trumps past pronouncements, left experts like Harding confused. People can be offered a space in a shelter, but they cant be forced to take a space, and then fined or arrested if they dont go into shelter, Harding said. Thats not a law in DC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, when Trump said last week that homeless people would be offered beds and forced into shelters, there were literally no beds available, Harding said. Advocacy groups and the city worked together to opened up some new beds the next day, Harding said. And a DC official told CNN on Thursday that local authorities can quickly add additional beds on an emergency basis, as the Trump-backed sweeps continue this week. The vast majority of homeless people in DC are already in shelters: The latest tally found that only about 15% of DCs roughly 5,100 homeless people live on the streets. This is from a point-in-time count, a census of homeless people on a given night. A handmade sign is laid near a makeshift shelter on a sidewalk in Washington, DC, on Monday. - Alex Wroblewski/Bloomberg/Getty Images Harding said her legal clinic has done extensive trainings with DCs Metropolitan Police Department. But in addition to federalizing MPD, Trump also directed agents from the FBI, Drug Enforcement Agency, the US Marshals Service and other federal officers to assist with local law enforcement duties in the nations capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear which of these federal agencies, if any, are involved in clearing homeless encampments. The US Park Police, which is part of the Interior Department and has cleared dozens of homeless camps this year, didnt answer CNNs request for comment. We dont feel any confidence that federal law enforcement have any training in how to interact with people on the street, or know what resources are available, Harding said. DC Council member Charles Allen told CNN hes also worried about the federal influx. People have a right to be concerned, said Allen, a Democrat whose ward includes the Capitol Hill area where many young families live. In my own neighborhood, just the other day, US Park Police were wandering through in the afternoon with assault rifles. How does that make us any safer? People rally in opposition to President Donald Trump's plans to activate federal law enforcement in Washington, DC, on Monday. - Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images Trump vs. DC A leader of another top homeless advocacy group in DC, who requested anonymity to speak candidly, said people are scared and that some nonprofits are worried about speaking out too forcefully about whats unfolding because they dont want to piss off the (DC) mayor, because everyone is competing for their slice of local government funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DC Mayor Muriel Bowser called Trumps takeover of MPD unsettling, but promised to cooperate, and showed deference to Trumps legal authority. So far, she has stuck a more diplomatic tone than many of her fellow Democrats in dealing with Trump, though she did eventually come around to labeling his federal deployments as an authoritarian push. She also noted that DCs violent crime rates fell in recent years from Covid-era peaks, and her administration touted a 9% drop in the citys homeless population this year. Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser, center, is joined by Chief of Police at the Metropolitan Police Department Pamela Smith, left, Fire and Emergency Medical Services Chief Chief John Donnelly and other members of her administration, at a press conference on Monday. - Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images Bowser has had time to prepare for this seemingly inevitable clash. Trump said in March that he told Bowser she must clean up all of the unsightly homeless encampments in DC or we will be forced to do it for her! And last month, he signed an executive order making it easier for jurisdictions to remove homeless people from the streets, reversing decades of federal policy that focused on giving them stable housing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps actions have created a crisis in the DC advocacy space that supports the citys homeless population. His antagonistic posture toward a city where Kamala Harris won 90% of the vote last year should not come as a surprise, conservative strategist Gregg Keller told CNN. its a very poorly kept secret, Keller said. Its understood within the political right and the Trump administration that these advocacy groups are often little more than political arms of the Democrat Party, which helps explain why theyre being targeted for scrutiny. The DC mayors office declined to comment when contacted by CNN. Heather Bernard tidies up her encampment in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood before a potential clearing by local authorities on Wednesday. - Christine Lien/CNN I want a home Bernard, the homeless woman who lives outside a Mount Pleasant grocery store, swept up her area with a broom Wednesday morning before what was supposed to be a scheduled cleanup by city agencies, that was slated several weeks before Trumps announcements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees from local nonprofits that have worked with her for years trying to get her into permanent housing were also waiting to see what would happen, and if any of the newly empowered federal agents would tear down her site. She had three chairs, a doormat, a small table, nearly 20 bags filled with food and clothes, a cooler, and two shopping carts. A handful of well-wishers from the tight-knit neighborhood stopped by, too. One young woman flagged down Miss Heather, hugged her, and handed her a bag with some food. I felt alone and lost, before settling in Mount Pleasant two decades ago, Bernard said. They care about me in this community. Im very mannerly, and I try to behave. But I have problems, too. Im homeless, Im bipolar, and a few other things. But I dont let it deter me. DC city workers dismantle tents and remove personal belongings during a sweep of a homeless encampment in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, DC, on Thursday. - Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images Due to a logistical hiccup, the scheduled clean-up didnt happen. But Bernards future is uncertain. And advocates like Edward Wycliff, from District Bridges, who works on Bernards case, say the Trump-backed sweeps disrupt real efforts to end homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The amount of money expended on pushing people out pales in comparison to what were going to end up spending, Wycoff said. Theyll no longer be connected to their services, and then the cost becomes exponential. If this is a test case on this block or in this city, as it seems to be we will have a very dire situation in the coming months. Other homeless DC residents that spoke to CNN expresses unease about shelters even if a bed is available which the White House says could lead to their arrest. They keep sending me to shelters, and Im not shelter material, said Isis Burnette, who is has been homeless for three years and lives on the street in the Capitol Hill neighborhood. Holding back tears, she said, I dont belong in a shelter. I want a house. I want a home. CNNs Camila DeChalus, Kit Maher, Christine Lien and Steven Williams contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com FAIRLAND A Cherokee Nation grant helped pave one mile of highway near the communitys cemetery. Melvina Shotpouch, a Cherokee Nation council member, said awarding the $100,000 grant is one of the many opportunities she looks forward to as a council member. The stretch of highway cost approximately $200,000, said Scott Hilton, Ottawa County Commissioner for District 3. Mike Furnas, Melvina Shotpouch, and Scott Hilton Mike Furnas, chairman of the Ottawa County Commissioners, and other Cherokee Nation and Fairland city leaders attended the road dedication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the Cherokee Nations goal is to improve the quality of life for American Indian families and communities by providing safe roads and bridges for better access to housing, schools, healthcare, business, and employment. The Federal Highway Administration funds these road projects. Tribal Transportation Program Funding is used for planning, engineering, and construction of the roads. She said the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council sets aside funds for infrastructure improvement projects through motor fuel tax, motor vehicle Tax, and special bridge funds for some projects. Ottawa County and Fairland community leaders Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHERRY CREEK, Colo. (KDVR) Management at the Griffis Apartments in Cherry Creek says they are making changes to improve safety after a string of car break-ins, including nearly 20 more since June. Police are now looking for 34-year-old Zackary Steele, who is suspected of multiple break-ins at the complex. Investigators say security video provided by the building helped identify him, and Steele currently has an active warrant. Crime continues to frustrate residents after police name potential Cherry Creek car break-in suspect Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffis officials told FOX31 a new 24-hour security company started this week, with standing patrols walking the property inside and out. Management also plans to call residents directly after crimes instead of sending only email alerts. The complex is launching quarterly safety socials where residents can meet with police and private security. Management says they are also exploring additional cameras, better lighting and more secure access points. Senior Vice President of Operations Jami Pichot said the goal is to improve communication and increase law enforcement presence in the area, both from Denver police and through the new private security company. I think local law enforcement presence is always something that is the most effective, Pichot said. Our residents get a sense of peace when they see officers that are consistently patrolling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffis is urging residents to continue reporting suspicious activity. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHICAGO (WGN) The Chicago Air and Water Show is slated to take the skies and shores of the Windy City this weekend. Heres what to know if you plan to go. When is the Air & Water Show? Rehearsals were held Friday, Aug. 15, while the show itself is Saturday, Aug. 16, and Sunday, Aug. 17. Festivities start at 10:30 a.m. and wrap up at 3 p.m. Where can you see it? While many of the flight shows can be seen from many places in the city, the best viewing for both the sky and lake activities is at North Avenue Beach at 1600 North Lake Shore Drive. What is the best way to get there? The is no public parking at the beach. The CTA 72 bus, which typically stops at the beach, will be rerouted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pick up and drop off are at North Ave. Northbound entrance to Jean Baptiste Point DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Use of the N. Lasalle turnaround is limited to Emergency Managements discretion. All drop-off and pick-up traffic may be cut off due to crowd density or Emergency Managements discretion. Please arrive early and plan to stay through the end of the event if you need pick up and drop off at this point, according to the website. How much does it cost to attend? Admission is free. The City of Chicago heralds it as the largest free show of its kind in the U.S. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines What can you see at the Air and Water Show? The Thunderbirds are once again set to headline along with the United States Army Parachute Team, also known as the Golden Knights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Military performers include a C-17 Globemaster, the KC-135 Stratotanker, and the 104th Fighter Squadron. The Coast Guard will also hold a demonstration on search and rescue. Civilian performers include biplane pilots, aerobatic and formation flights, and more. City of Chicago police and fire departments will also be on hand. Full performer details here. Some Restrictions Apply According to the website, the FAA has issued flight restrictions for the airspace around the Air and Water Show. The restrictions will take place on Thursday from 10 a.m. until noon and then again from 1:30-5 p.m. Then from Friday through Sunday, they will be in effect from 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. each day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unauthorized drones or unmanned aircraft systems will be prohibited from flying within the TFR without an approved FAA Waiver. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. China says it has suspended all ties with Czech President Petr Pavel over his recent meeting with the Dalai Lama, further straining relations between Beijing and Prague. During a private trip to India last month, Pavel met the exiled Tibetan leader to congratulate him on his 90th birthday. The Dalai Lama has been living in the Himalayan town of Dharamshala since fleeing Chinese rule in Tibet in 1959. Beijing sees Tibet as part of its territory and accuses the spiritual leader of being a separatist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The meeting "seriously contravenes the political commitment made by the Czech government to the Chinese government, and harms Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. "China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this, and has lodged serious protests with the Czech side. In light of the severity of Pavels provocative action, China decides to cease all engagement with him," it added. The Czech presidential office did not immediately respond to Beijing's statement. Prior to the meeting, the office said the Dalai Lama had invited Pavel to visit and that no one from Prague had accompanied him to India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "President Pavel took the opportunity to separate from the delegation during his return from a working visit to Japan to personally congratulate the Dalai Lama," the presidential office said last month. The Czech presidency is a largely ceremonial but prestigious post. Late Czech President Vaclav Havel, the nation's first post-communist leader, was a friend of the Dalai Lama. Ties between China and the Czech Republic have deteriorated in recent years. Shortly after his election as Czech president in January 2023, Pavel angered Beijing by having a phone call with Taiwan's then-president Tsai Ing-wen. The Czech Republic, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but it maintains robust informal contacts with the self-governing democracy, which Beijing views as its own territory despite Taipei's rejection. (Reuters) -India and China are discussing resuming border trade of domestic goods after more than five years, Bloomberg News said on Thursday, citing officials in New Delhi familiar with the matter. (Reporting by Harshita Meenaktshi in Bengaluru; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) By Liz Lee and Shi Bu BEIJING (Reuters) -China expressed support for Thailand and Cambodia in resolving their border dispute on Thursday and offered to provide assistance based on the wishes of both nations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said. Wang said China supports the Southeast Asian countries in strengthening dialogue and eliminating misunderstandings, adding he hoped they would rebuild mutual trust and restore friendship, according to statements from his ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He met his Thai and Cambodian counterparts separately during the day but also convened a three-way conversation on the sidelines of the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting in China's southwestern Yunnan province, readouts of the three meetings showed. In their "friendly and candid communication", Wang said China hoped that the two countries could reopen border crossings as soon as possible, a Chinese foreign ministry statement said. China also promised support and assistance for landmine clearance in the border areas of Cambodia and Thailand, and the three ministers agreed to continue communication in a "flexible manner", the Chinese statement added. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said he had attended an informal tea chat consultation with Chinese and Cambodian counterparts and expressed appreciation for Chinas constructive role in supporting peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no immediate comment from Cambodia. Thailand and Cambodia have wrangled for decades over border territory and a border conflict erupted last month after the killing of a Cambodian soldier in a skirmish late in May. It was the worst fighting in more than a decade and only eased after a ceasefire was struck in late July. In a bilateral meeting with Thailand's Maris, Wang spoke about China's readiness to accelerate a China-Thailand railway construction project, encourage more investments from Chinese enterprises in Thailand and ensure the stability of the regional production and supply chain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is hoped that Thailand will provide more policy support and facilitation for Chinese enterprises, he told his Thai counterpart. While meeting with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn, Wang sounded support for Cambodia maintaining political stability, and said China is appreciative of the country's crackdown on online gambling and wire fraud. He also expressed hopes that Cambodia will continue strong measures for joint efforts in the region against cross-border criminal activities. (Reporting by Liz Lee and Shi Bu; Editing by Jacqueline Wong, William Maclean and Raju Gopalakrishnan) At least 40 people have died from cholera in Sudans Darfur region in what medical charity Doctors Without Borders, known by its French initials MSF, described as the countrys worst outbreak in years. MSF said on Thursday that the vast western region, already devastated by more than two years of fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), is bearing the brunt of an outbreak that began a year ago. On top of an all-out war, people in Sudan are now experiencing the worst cholera outbreak the country has seen in years, the group said in a statement cited by the AFP news agency. In the Darfur region alone, MSF teams treated over 2,300 patients and recorded 40 deaths in the past week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nationwide, health authorities have reported 99,700 suspected cases and 2,470 deaths linked to cholera since August 2023. The bacterial infection, transmitted through contaminated food and water, can cause severe diarrhoea, vomiting and muscle cramps. It can kill within hours without treatment, though simple oral rehydration or antibiotics can save lives. On Wednesday, health officials launched a 10-day vaccination drive in the capital, Khartoum, to slow what aid agencies warn is a fast-moving outbreak worsened by war, mass displacement and heavy rainfall. MSF said millions forced from their homes by the conflict now struggle to access clean water for drinking, cooking and hygiene. In Tawila, North Darfur, where about 380,000 people have fled ongoing fighting near el-Fasher, residents survive on just 3 litres (3.2qt) of water per day less than half the emergency minimum of 7.5 litres (8qt) per person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In displacement and refugee camps, families often have no choice but to drink from contaminated sources and many contract cholera, said Sylvain Penicaud, MSFs project coordinator in Tawila. Just two weeks ago, a body was found in a well inside one of the camps. It was removed, but within two days, people were forced to drink from that same water again. Since the army retook Khartoum in March, fighting has intensified in Darfur, with the RSF attempting to seize el-Fasher, the last major city in the region still under army control. The United Nations has described dire conditions for civilians trapped inside. Heavy rains have further contaminated water sources and damaged sewage systems, MSF warned, while people fleeing the fighting are carrying the disease into neighbouring Chad and South Sudan. MSFs head of mission in Sudan, Tuna Turkmen, described the situation as beyond urgent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The outbreak is spreading well beyond displacement camps now, into multiple localities across Darfur states and beyond, Turkmen said. Survivors of war must not be left to die from a preventable disease. Sudans war, which began in Khartoum in April 2023, has killed more than 40,000 people, displaced an estimated 12 million and pushed millions towards famine. CAIRO (AP) Cholera is spreading rapidly in Darfur, killing 40 people and infecting more than 2,300 over the past week alone because of water shortages and a collapsed health care system have left communities vulnerable amid the ongoing war in Sudan, Doctors Without Borders said in a report Thursday. The group, also known as Medecins Sans Frontieres, or MSF, said that hte outbreak was the worst the North African country has seen in years. As of Monday, a total of 99,700 suspected cases and more than 2,470 related deaths have been reported in Sudan since the cholera outbreak began in July 2024, according to MSF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While some vaccination campaigns that kicked off at the time managed to contain the disease, more people have been infected over the past few months because of poor hygiene measures and large numbers of people being displaced amid intensified fighting in the Darfur and Kordofan regions. The civil war erupted in April 2023 in Khartoum before spreading across the country. The fighting between the Sudanese military, its allies, and rival paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, has killed more than 40,000 people, displaced as many as 12 million, caused disease outbreaks 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. Heavy rains worsened the situation by damaging sewage systems and creating stagnant water that became contaminated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The situation is most extreme in Tawila, North Darfur state, where 380,000 people have fled to escape ongoing fighting around the city of El Fasher, according to the United Nations, MSF said Thursday. The medical group added that Tawila Hospital was overwhelmed by around 400 cholera patients earlier this month, when it only had the capacity for 130 people. Many had to be treated on the floor. Overcrowding of the camps and the catastrophic hygiene condition are key factors," Sylvain Penicaud, MSF project coordinator in Tawila, North Darfur, told The Associated Press by phone. Recent displacement fueled by the fighting is another contributing factor to the outbreak. People are forced to take water from contaminated sources such as community wells that are extremely dirty. The hygiene situation in Tawila is dire, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MSF plans to launch a vaccination campaign in Tawila as soon they receive 400,000 doses of cholera vaccine in coordination with WHO. North Darfurs capital city, el-Fasher, and its surrounding areas have seen repeated waves of violence recently. On Monday, the RSF attacked the famine-stricken displacement camp of Abu Shouk outside the city, killing 40 people and wounding at least 19 people. On Monday, the RSF denied targeting civilians in el-Fasher, but didnt mention attacks in Abu Shouk camp in a statement on its Telegram channel. The paramilitary accused Islamic Movement militias and mercenaries of the armed movements of endangering the lives of civilians and using them as human shields in a desperate attempt to hinder forces advancements. The Rapid Support Forces reaffirms its commitment to continuing to open safe corridors for the departure of civilians from El Fasher to other, safer areas, the group said. For the first time since opening his first restaurant in 2012, Suman Hoque is a vendor at the Iowa State Fair. The Des Moines restaurateur a Bangladesh native who operates HoQ in the East Village and Flora in the Des Moines Botanical Center got a little help through the Choose Iowa state brand to operate a trailer here. The effort, housed under the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, identifies food, beverages and agricultural products from Iowa. HoQ's lamb wrap uses Iowa-raised lamb tossed in a tomato cream sauce and is served with basmati rice, a turmeric creme fraiche and local kale on homemade naan. The HoQ lamb wrap from HoQ at the Iowa State Fair on July 15, 2025, in Des Moines The program previously awarded him a grant that helped him buy a delivery vehicle, cooler and freezer and helped him sell HoQ's popular breakfast wraps in places like the Des Moines Downtown Farmers' Market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plus, his connections with other Choose Iowa members helps him get his hands on any fresh greens and produce he needs, even during the frigid winter months. "People are like, 'How do you get this?'" Hoque said. "It's connection." More: Meet the 67 new foods at the Iowa State Fair in 2025 Choose Iowa Director Beth Romer said Hoque started as a presenter through the program's fair cooking demonstrations in 2024 before becoming a concessionaire this year. Staff helped him connect with the fair's concessions department. "He's just taken it and ran," Romer said. "... It's been so fun to see all those meaningful connections and helping people really get connected with the local food that they're looking for." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since launching at the State Fair in 2023, Romer said the new program is celebrating growth with more than 300 members across the state in just two years. "We want to promote and identify the foods, beverages and ag products that we grow, raise and make in Iowa," Romer said. Choose Iowa helps members connect with people consumers to the producers, and suppliers to restaurants that are looking for local ingredients. Members also may participate in a program that helps food banks purchase locally sourced foods. Events like the State Fair are key to fostering those connections to Iowa's agricultural producers, Romer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is Iowa's biggest tourism event of the year, and it's a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with Iowans and people across the country in a meaningful way," Romer said. "They can sample and we're trying to, with the different activities happening throughout the fairgrounds, we want people to meet their local producers and meet their farmers, and have an opportunity to visit and learn more about where their food comes from." Choose Iowa information is seen on display at a Choose Iowa cooking demonstration at the Iowa State Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Demonstrations show food and drinks grown and made in Iowa Every day of the fair at 1 p.m. at The Kitchen inside the Maytag Family Theaters, fairgoers can participate in cooking demonstrations and tastings. During a wine, cheese and bread tasting Tuesday, Aug. 12, Rona Wyant, who owns Fireside Winery and Ackerman Winery with her husband, William, shared how they launched their wine business to diversify their farming operation. They now have an approximately 30-acre vineyard. Touting their wine made from Iowa-grown grapes, she told demonstration attendees "we call ourselves real Iowa wine." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wyant said they became a Choose Iowa member because it stands for "supporting people that grow things in Iowa, make things in Iowa." A Choose Iowa cooking demonstration takes place at the Iowa State Fair on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Their wine was presented at the demonstration alongside breads from Six Clems Micro Bakery in Maysville and cheeses from WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon. That one event spurred conversations about collaborating on wine and bread pairings at the winery's Amana location, Wyant said. "We're trying to work more on getting locally grown fruit for our Ackerman label, and so with this, I think we're going to be able to use that connection to find some of those growers," Wyant said. Other demonstrations scheduled later this week include one on things to do with sweet corn "beyond the cob" and another from Katie Flinn, Iowa's first and only honey sommelier who was trained in Italy and is an Air Force veteran who used beekeeping to overcome post-traumatic stress disorder. Vote for your favorite Iowa-grown fair foods For the foodies among fairgoers, Choose Iowa is sponsoring the Favorite Fair Food Contest, where 30 participating food vendors entered at least one menu item that incorporates local ingredients sourced from Iowa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: These top three dishes compete for Best New Food at the 2025 Iowa State Fair To eat local at the fair, visit the Iowa State Fair website, click on the "food" tab and find the Choose Iowa fair food information at the top of the page. While you're eating at the fair, you can scan the QR codes available at Choose Iowa food vendors to vote for your favorite fair food from Iowa. The winner will be announced in the afternoon on Friday, Aug. 15. People can find more information about Choose Iowa at the Elwell Building and sign up for free for the new Choose Iowa passport, a partnership with the state's Travel Iowa initiative to encourage people to visit farms, farmers' markets and farm-to-table restaurants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You can get out and experience agriculture and eat across the state," Romer said. "It's pretty fun." Marissa Payne covers the Iowa Statehouse and politics for the Register. Reach her by email at mjpayne@registermedia.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @marissajpayne. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Here's how you can 'Choose Iowa' foods at the Iowa State Fair EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A man accused of stealing tires from a Walmart Supercenter earlier this week has been identified as a Chuco Tango gang member. The man was arrested on Thursday, Aug. 14, after stealing two car tires from a store in Horizon City, according to the El Paso County Constables Office for Precinct 6. Tomas Arturo Corona, 44, was taken into custody with a theft of property warrant with two previous convictions and a criminal trespass warrant. Corona was transported to the El Paso County Detention Facility with a total bond of $7,500. Tomas Arturo Corona. Photo courtesy of the El Paso County Constables Office for Precinct 6. Authorities said in the afternoon on Aug. 11, an unknown suspect walked into the automotive section at the retail store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspect stole the tires and got away with them in the back of his truck. Walmart employees flagged down a deputy constable, who was working part-time security at the store, and alerted him of the theft. The deputy constable reviewed the surveillance video and pushed out a Be on the Lookout (BOLO) alert to other law enforcement agencies, with the suspects description and vehicle, the Constables Office said. Corona was positively identified as the suspect of the Walmart theft, the Constables Office said. The suspect was identified by the Constables Office as a Chuco Tango gang member. After the investigation, the department secured an arrest warrant for Corona for theft of property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the department also secured a criminal trespass warrant for Corona, after the investigation revealed he was issued a criminal trespass warning by Walmart back in 2024. On Thursday, Aug. 14, deputy constables observed Corona driving along the 500 block of Buford Road in Socorro, according to the Constables Office. According to the Constables Office, deputy constables conducted a traffic stop on Corona, where he was then taken into custody for the two warrants. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Five of the seven individuals charged in the viral Cincinnati beatdown appeared in court Thursday morning to be arraigned on additional charges in a tense back-and-forth over the case. The first suspect to appear was Montanez Merriweather, who was slapped with an additional federal charge for illegally having a gun as a convicted felon earlier this week. Prosecutor Kip Guinan revealed there are two additional videos from nearby city cameras that show new angles of the fight but have not yet been made public. Guinan also said the alleged racial slurs made toward the perpetrators were said nearly two minutes after the attack began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cincinnati Viral Beating Suspect Hit With Federal Gun Charge The judge determined Merriweathers bond would remain at $500,000. Dekyra Vernons bond was then knocked down from $200,000 to $25,000 at 10%, eliciting cheers from the gallery. She was also ordered to stay away from the citys downtown area. Read On The Fox News App Vernons attorney, Clyde Bennett, argued that the case against his client had been inflamed due to race and politics, but in reality it was just a fight fueled by alcohol. Seventh Cincinnati Assault Suspect Arrested Over Violent Beatdown Montianez Merriwether is brought before Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge, Alan Triggs for his arraignment, Cincinnati, Ohio, on Thursday, August 14, 2025. The charges stem from a downtown beating on July 26, 2025. Guinan rebutted Bennetts argument, asserting that for him to believe the case is driven by race is offensive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jermaine Matthews, who was initially released on bond shortly after the attack, was granted the same bond amount and is still permitted to go to work. Guinan argued that Matthews was the "leader" of the beatdown and one of the primary instigators, adding "this is the man who started it." However, Matthews attorney, Brandon Fox, insisted his client was "slapped" by a White man when the fight began. Cincinnati Viral Beating Bodycam Released As Suspects Face New Charges In Grand Jury Indictment DeKyra Vernon is brought before Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge, Alan Triggs for her arraignment, Cincinnati, Ohio, on Thursday, August 14, 2025. Dominique Kittle was then ordered to remain in custody pending a mental health evaluation, but his bond was kept the same. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kittles defense attorney revealed his client is a paranoid schizophrenic and was previously found not guilty on prior charges by reason of insanity. However, Guinan referred to Kittle as "a grave danger to the public" during his arraignment. Aisha Devaughn also received a lower bond, with the initial amount of $300,000 brought down to $25,000 after her attorney cited her lack of prior felonies. Cincinnati Residents On Edge After Viral Beatdown Sparks Crime Concerns: 'What's Gonna Happen Next?' Jermaine Matthews is brought before Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge, Alan Triggs for his arraignment, Cincinnati, Ohio, Thursday, August 14, 2025. Guinan also said Devaughn allegedly inserted herself into the fight and was not initially provoked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon being led out of the courtroom, Matthews exclaimed, "[Im going to] go get her," before leaving the courtroom after Devaughns bond was lowered. Patrick Rosemond was expected to be present in court after being arrested in Georgia last week, but he has not yet been extradited to Ohio. He could potentially appear in court on Friday. Cincinnati Brawl Timeline: Brutal Assault Spirals Into National Firestorm Aisha Devaughn is brought before Hamilton County Common Pleas Court Judge, Alan Triggs for her arraignment in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Thursday, August 14, 2025. Matthews, Merriweather, Vernon, Devaughn, Rosemond and Kittle are each charged with 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If convicted, they face the possibility of up to 30 years in prison. A seventh individual, Gregory Wright, was arrested earlier this week and is charged with alleged aggravated rioting and aggravated robbery. Each defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Original article source: Cincinnati beatdown suspects arraigned on new charges; bond changes spark courtroom drama Cincinnati City Council member Victoria Parks has resigned from a county board, weeks after a comment she made on social media drew backlash. Parks sent a letter to Hamilton County Commission President Denise Driehaus on Aug. 12, resigning her position on the Hamilton County Veterans Services Commission. "I write to inform you that I am resigning from the Hamilton County Veterans Services Commission effective immediately," Parks said in the letter. "I appreciate your appointment and am proud of the work the commission has accomplished to improve services and supports to our veterans." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Enquirer reached out to Parks to ask why she decided to resign but did not receive a response prior to publication. 'They begged for that beat down!' Videos of a July 26 fight in downtown Cincinnati went viral thanks to right-wing influencers and commentators, including former Trump administration adviser Elon Musk. Parks commented on one of the videos the day after the fight and said, "They begged for that beat down! I am grateful for the whole story." Her comments also got the attention of right-wing accounts on X, including Libs of TikTok, which is run by influencer Chaya Raichik. A USA TODAY investigation found that Raichik's posts are at times followed by death threats, bomb threats and harassment for those she criticizes. How to apply for Hamilton County Veterans Services Commission The eight-member Veterans Services Commission now has two vacancies, after former executive director Orlando Sonza was appointed as counsel for the civil rights division for the U.S. Department of Justice by President Donald Trump. Commission member Glenn Welling is serving as interim executive director. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone interested in serving on the commission can apply through the Hamilton County website. This story may be updated. Regional politics reporter Erin Glynn can be reached at eglynn@enquirer.com, @ee_glynn on X or @eringlynn on Bluesky. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Victoria Parks resigns from county board job after post about fight Martin Luther King Jr.'s daughter Bernice King helped Cincinnati officials break ground Aug. 14 at the site of a new memorial for the civil rights leader in Avondale after eight years of extensive planning. The $1.4 million memorial is set to replace an earlier monument of King at the corner of Reading Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. That monument, dedicated in 1987, was moved to MLK Park in North Avondale in 2017 to accommodate road construction. The city has been considering building a King memorial with an initiative for a new statute started by then-Councilman Chris Smitherman for years, according to Cincinnati City Manager Sheryl Long's office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After $1 million was dedicated to fund the new memorial, developers put out a call to local, national and international artists to decide the design of the future monument. After two public engagement sessions and a survey, a selection committee chose Houston-based company Re:site Studio's design. Now, in August 2025, city leaders are able to announce the official start of the long-awaited project. "At the beginning of this beautiful Black Memorial Weekend, in the presence of Bernice King, we get to break ground on another clear, lasting message of what we stand for in a city always," Mayor Aftab Pureval said. "But particularly right now in this moment." Mayor Aftab Pureval speaks during a groundbreaking for a planned memorial in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Avondale on Aug. 14, 2025. What will it look like? In 2021, the city conducted a nationwide search for artists, ultimately choosing Re:Site Studio. Artists Shane Allbritton, Norman Lee and Stephen Hayes came up with a design called "The Light of Hope." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The renderings in 2022 showed six stained glass pillars surrounding a bronze statue of King. Each pillar represented a different principle of nonviolence and featured images of King's life and work as well as the civil rights movement. According to a release, at the center of the memorial is a slightly larger than life size bronze of King preaching, in a welcoming gesture. The sculpture is elevated on a granite pedestal bench engraved with his words that evoke the transformative power of light: Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that. "As public artists, we want to remember the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a way that was specific to Cincinnati," Lee said. "This is not just a monument to one man. This is about all the leaders from Cincinnati who worked alongside Dr. King in the struggle for civil rights." A rendering released in 2022 by the city of Cincinnati and art studio Re:Site of the new Martin Luther King Jr. memorial planned for Avondale. When will the memorial be completed? Construction is expected to wrap up in the spring of 2026, according to city leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May 2021, Cincinnati City Council allocated $1 million for the project. The city paused the project for additional public input, according to Long's office. Three years later, City Council put in another $410,000 to complete the project. Bernice King smiles during a groundbreaking for a planned memorial in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Avondale on Aug. 14, 2025. Who was Martin Luther King Jr.? Martin Luther King Jr., a pastor from Georgia, became a civil rights icon in the 1950s and 1960s and the most prominent leader of the Civil Rights Movement. He led boycotts and protests against racism and injustice. His "I Have A Dream" speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., became one of the most famous oratories in American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was assassinated in 1968 while in Memphis to support the citys sanitation workers in a strike. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the third Monday in January, became federally recognized in 1983 when President Ronald Reagan signed it into law. Enquirer staff writer Scott Wartman contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: After 8 years, city leaders break ground on anticipated MLK memorial BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) A city vape shop ordinance is now in effect after a special meeting of the Beckley City Council. Beckley City Council hears first reading of vape ordinance If you are brining a vape and smoke shop to the city of Beckley you will be operating within the confines of this new ordinance. Council members voted in favor or the ordinance after it was presented during a Special Session meeting for a second reading. The ordinance will apply primarily to new shops potentially coming into the area. Members of Raleigh County United for Prevention have been working with city and county leadership to provide education on how these types of businesses can target younger community members. We talked to them about how other municipalities and other counties across West Virginia are implementing these policies and these ordinances to restrict these so that our youth and our communities are safer and healthier, said Raleigh County United for Prevention Executive Director, Kellie Gunnoe. The ordinance will prevent vape shops from being brought into residential districts. New shops will also be required to be least 1500 feet from schools, daycare centers, churches, parks, and other vape shops. COO with the YMCA of Southern West Virginia, Mat Bishop told 59News it is a win any time we can help to protect the kids. As the city continues to make progress, the positive aspects of the area are worth recognizing as well, according to Bishop. I think the new ordinance is great. We want to keep everyone healthy, especially our kids adults, everyone, he said. We want to make sure these kids have healthier options, and being able to turn a corner, every corner in Beckley, you sometimes find some bad things. You know, the good things are there too! The Y is right around the corner right downtown, and were always here to help these kids stay healthy and active. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vape shops operational at the time of the ordinance passing will grandfathered in. If any changes are made to their current operation or if they are non-operational for 30 days, they will need to reapply for a permit adhering to the regulations of the new ordinance. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) After months of renovations, the Savannah City Council is back to business and back in their newly restored City Hall chambers. With that fresh start the Savannah City Council also has some big decisions ahead. Council members are stepping into a restored space, but theres almost no time for officials to sit back and admire it. Among the record-length agenda of over 60 items, the council is set to discuss key topics including housing for residents and tourism development. Two top topics on the table today: the Dundee Cottages project that could give dozens of people a place to call home, and rules that could change how horse carriages operate in Savannah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City leaders are expected to vote on the next step for the Dundee Cottages. The project is a housing development made of 39 long-term cottages and 12 tiny homes for individuals and families exiting homelessness. Its estimated to be nearly a 6.5 million dollar investment. The funding would complete roads, infrastructure, and permanent homes on Dundee Street. Before the council meets, the city will host a Welcome home to the chamber celebration. At noon, the public is invited to an open house and tours of the renovated building. Following that, at 2 p.m., the council will host their regular meeting in chambers since September 2024. Weve been gone for almost a year. And so to finally return back to your digs, your own space. Its like if youve been displaced from your home for a while and then you come back. The familiarity, but its always good to be back home. I think Dorthy got it right when she said theres no place like home, explained Savannah Mayor Van Johnson about city officials being able to return back to work at City Hall. WSAV sat down and spoke with city officials about the restoration of Savannahs City Hall to learn further details about the project. Officials shared that the ground City Hall sits on along Bay Street has been the site of city government and local government, basically since the 1700s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weve been really focusing on restoring the architectural integrity in all the original finishes. We have been so busy over the past 120 years doing the business of government, that a lot of things have kind of slipped. And it was really time to give this important civic building some love and attention, said Luciana Spracher, the Head of Municipal Archives for the City of Savannah. City Officials encourage the public to come and visit the newly restored building. Without question this is the most recognizable landmark in our city. It stands out among all of our great city skylines. There are only two gold dome buildings in Georgia. The only other gold dome building in this state is the Georgia state capitol, said Mayor Johnson. It is a majestic building and not only from the outside, but also in the inside. The aspects of this building are certainly not replaceable. We have to take care of our resources and our assets here. Total this was about a $2.7 million investment. Also, up for discussion is a second hearing of two ordinances that would set stricter temperature limits for horse-drawn carriage operations. While animal advocates say its long overdue, operators argue it could cripple the industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Dundee Cottages project and the potential rules on horse carriages in Savannah are just two of a long list of topics the Savannah city council will have to decide this afternoon in their newly restored chamber. Although the work isnt finished yet on the historic landmark, the final two phases of City Halls restoration project will focus on the remaining interior work. It should be done just in time for City Halls 120th anniversary next year, in 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. MIDTOWN, Manhattan (PIX11) The City Council is set to vote on rezoning parts of Midtown on Thursday to make way for thousands of new affordable housing units. The proposal, called the Midtown South Mixed-Use Plan, is being touted as the largest of its kind in 20 years. The $500 million plan is focused on four areas stretching from 40th to 23rd streets between 8th and 5th avenues. More Local News Supporters said the plan, which seeks to create 10,000 new homes, including 3,000 affordable housing units, will transform Midtown South into a vibrant live-work neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The development would rise in the footprint of Fashion Avenue at the heart of the Garment District. The mayors office said a large portion of the housing would come from vacant converted office spaces. Some business owners, however, told PIX11 News that theyre worried they will be pushed out of the area. Louis Nunez, the owner of the embroidery studio Trimworld, said he fears rezoning could price out several garment industry businesses. More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State We just want to protect whats here, we want to be able to help each other out, Nunez said. Thats one of the biggest scares, the fact that most of the shops are not going to be here a few years from now if that rezoning goes through. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal includes a Council of Fashion Designers of America fund to support designers and garment industry businesses. The redevelopment plan also calls for creating tree canopies, a 34th Street car-free busway, bike lanes, school improvements and more. 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. EAU CLAIRE The city of Eau Claire unanimously voted Tuesday night to start invoicing Eau Claire County for veteran grave maintenance, under a state statute that dates back to 1919. The Wisconsin Statute, section 45.85, was initially created by Chapter 366 in the laws of 1919, said Ryan LeCloux, senior legislative analyst with the Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau. The history online that youll see is pretty extensive, [but] it shows only history that is in the current state statute section since it was renumbered in the 2005 Act. It has not been amended since 2005. When asked about how old the statute was that was being referenced, City Attorney Steve Nick said, The statute has been out there for a time, but may have been amended in some way recently, but Im not certain of that. This is the first year the city has utilized the state law to share the costs associated with cemetery long-term maintenance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Community Services Director Lane Berg said he was unaware there was a state statute that would allow the county and city to share in cemetery maintenance costs. In talking to other municipalities [we learned] they were utilizing the county to pay for veterans graves, he said. So we took a look at it and decided if its a state statute that mandates that, the county should be paying for that. We thought it would be right to bring this forward. To figure out how much to bill the county this year, Berg said, We did a thorough investigation with the genealogical society and our own city staff to determine how many veterans and veteran spouses graves that are in existence. We took that number divided by the total number of graves to come up with a percentage of total maintenance cost that should be allocated to the county. They found that of Lakeview Cemeterys 21,448 graves, 3,162 graves belong to deceased veterans and their spouses. Forest Hills Cemetery, which has 17,818 graves, has 2,914 graves which belong to deceased veterans and their spouses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resolution found that the total eligible costs applicable to care of these Veterans graves between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 is $76,200, or $12.54 per gravesite. Berg offered assurances that the city would not be retroactively invoicing the county for previous years. He said that the extra money would help us offset operating expenses. Were doing everything we can to try and maintain our level of service even though the cost of services are going up. Were not able to raise our taxes enough to cover a lot of these expenses, so its going to help us to maintain the high level of care that we do. While no one in the county was available for public comment by the deadline for this article, Wis. Stat. 45.86 (2005) states that every county board shall annually levy, in addition to all other taxes, a tax sufficient to carry out the purposes of this section. If youve visited both of our cemeteries, youll notice that theyre in very nice condition, Berg said. Our staff does a fantastic job keeping them in tip-top shape, and we do that to honor the people that have passed away. We will continue to do that for perpetuity, even after the point where weve sold all of our lots. Everyone deserves to explore the world. But that's an ideal that's simply harder for some, especially when they're trying to navigate cities without wide sidewalks and ramps in a wheelchair, too many stairs without a handrail, or getting from point A to B without the aid of public transportation. That said, there are destinations that are welcoming and accessible to all who are leading the packand Wander is here to celebrate them. "At Wander, we understand that true luxury means inclusive travel experiences," the company shared in its new study looking into the most accessible destinations across the U.S. To help travelers find the most accessible destinations in the U.S., it first created a seed list of the nation's top cities, then analyzed each on its "number of wheelchair-accessible attractions, walkability, reliable public transport, and internet connectivity." It gathered this data from companies like GetYourGuide, AllTrails, Story Maps, Walk Score, and the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After looking at all that information, it named Detroit, Michigan, the most accessible city in the U.S., scoring a whopping 9.7 out of 10. "Detroit stands out as the most accessible U.S. city based on a combination of key factors, despite its relatively small size," the team shared in the findings. "Detroit earned a perfect record on ADA compliance for public rail stations, with zero percent of stations being inaccessible, indicating full access for individuals with mobility challenges. Additionally, the city has 5.53 public transport stations per 100,000 people, providing decent transit options to its residents." It noted that the city's share of wheelchair-accessible attractions is lower than in other destinations around the U.S., at just 16.67 percent; however, this was balanced out by its high number of wheelchair-accessible outdoor trails, making the city "one of the best options nationwide for inclusive outdoor activities." Coming in a close second is Baltimore, Maryland, which scored a 9.61 out of 10 thanks to its "many accessible attractions and strong infrastructure for people with disabilities." The website added that it's also a relatively walkable city, scoring a 64 out of 100, "making it easier for individuals using mobility aids to navigate the city safely on foot." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rounding out the top three is Seattle, which scored a 9.55 out of 10. It won high praise thanks to its fantastic public transportation and plentiful accessible public spaces. "Over a quarter of its walking trails are wheelchair accessible (31 out of 119), making Seattle one of the more outdoor-accessible spots," they added. "The focus on green space and nature access makes the city a great option for residents and tourists alike." Two Texas cities, Houston and Dallas, took home the No. 4 and No. 5 spots, respectively. See where else travelers can expect plenty of accessible options around the nation at wander.com. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The City of Las Vegas will not pursue a change to a noise ordinance in the Arts District, according to the Las Vegas City Council. Back in July, the City of Las Vegas encouraged input from those living and working in the Arts District to weigh in on the level of noise in the area after complaints from several businesses regarding the levels of amplified sound outside some of the other businesses. The city asked if businesses thought it should be amended to remove the exemption from the citys noise chapter for certain events within the Arts District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the existing noise order, events beginning Sunday through Wednesday can not extend past 10 p.m. For events beginning on Thursday, they can not extend past midnight, and events beginning Friday and Saturday activities can not extend past 2 a.m. Advocates on both sides spoke to 8 News Now, with some stating the area should remain an exception to the rule, while others asked city leaders to examine the current noise levels throughout the day and evening. The city then began a survey phase through the end of July to review the feedback and make its decision. Businesses were sent an email, along with an online survey, and asked to provide feedback by July 31. City of Las Vegas Councilwoman Olivia Diaz released a statement on Wednesday regarding the citys decision not to pursue any changes due to the majority of people not being in favor of a change. Her full statement is provided below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based on the feedback weve received, the city of Las Vegas is not pursuing a change to the noise ordinance of the 18b Las Vegas Arts District. The city had encouraged input from those who live and work in the area to gauge whether an update to city code was needed. I appreciate all those who took the time to make their opinions known. From the feedback Ive received, its clear the majority does not favor a change. The Arts District is an authentic, home-grown area that we want to ensure remains vibrant and energized for years to come. As part of this, we will continue to have regular communications with the 18b Arts District Board members as well as other members of that community. City of Las Vegas Councilwoman Olivia Diaz Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) The November election is a little more than 80 days away. Thats when Mecklenburg County voters will decide whether to approve a sales tax increase to pay for transportation projects. Its no secret that the roads in and around Charlotte need some relief. County leaders solution is to generate more than $20 billion over the next 30 years to fund the projects by asking citizens to pay an extra penny for every dollar they spend. MORE | City hires administrator to oversee transition of CATS operations with proposed transit tax Opponents worry minority communities will bear the brunt of the cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we dont do something as it relates to public transportation and standing up more safe options with various modes, then were going to find ourselves choking on our own growth, said Charlotte Mayor Pro-Tem Dante Anderson. Charlotte leaders said were at a point where doing nothing to improve transit options is not an option. Its why theyre putting a transit sales tax on the ballot aimed at funding road, bus and rail upgrades across Mecklenburg County. The plan is for those who pay taxes in the area to fund it. This tax, which is a regressive tax, has been in the past one tax that did not benefit the minority community, people of color, said Rev. Dr. Janet Garner-Mullins, who spoke out against the tax to county commissioners. Some people are speaking out against the tax, including activist Rev. Dr. William Barber. In a sermon over the weekend, Barber said, Were not against tax. Were against being taxed in ways that constantly hurt the poor and working poor while the wealthy and the greedy never pay their fair share. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Someone on a fixed income, someone thats you know, eating at home, shopping for groceries, things of that nature, theyre not really going to be hit by this, said Anderson. The tax will not apply to fresh groceries, medications, rent or utilities. If youre trying to take care of a household, the majority of the funds that you spend will not be taxed with this penny sales tax, said Anderson. Anderson said its estimated Mecklenburg County residents will only account for about 40 percent of the revenue expected from the tax. Tourists and businesses will make up the other 60 percent. PREVIOUS | Gov. Stein signs P.A.V.E. Act into law Anderson expects residents to see improvements to bus and micro transit within the first year, with about 90 percent of it completed five years out. The rail will take longer, but Anderson thinks any time saved not sitting in traffic will be worth the money spent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you can give back one hour a day to a wage worker to reduce their transportation, thats five hours a week, she said. Thats 20 hours a month. They could either spend more time at work and make more money, real money, or they can spend more time with their families and have good family time. If approved, the sales tax would go from 7.25 percent to 8.25 percent, meaning the average household will spend an extra $240 per 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 Queen City News. LIBERTY HILL, Texas (KXAN) The city of Liberty Hill hosted a town hall Thursday evening for its residents to learn more about a new water purification program that will help supply the community with water for the foreseeable future. The water purification program, called Pure Water LHTX, will use advanced water purification technology that purifies recycled water to help support Liberty Hills growth and reduce any dependence on other entities. Liberty Hills Public Works Director Jacob Parsons said they will pilot two different systems for the next eight months to see what works best for the city. Those two programs are called Traditional Advanced Treatment and Carbon Based Advanced Treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ones going to be the reverse osmosis [system], and the other ones going to be carbon based filtration system, Parsons said. After the pilot program, the city will get it approved by the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Following its approval, the city will construct a full-scale facility expected to begin operations in 2030. Kevin Langford has lived in Liberty Hill for the past seven years. He said that hes glad that the city is working implementing water infrastructure. Given the realities, weve got to do something to find additional water sources, Langford said. Langford said that he understands how some people could feel uneasy about the system using recycled water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know that the water that comes out of the backside of that is as clean as what we get through the tap now, but just the mental concept of it I know a lot of folks in town are struggling with, Langford said. Some residents at the town hall thought the facility Liberty Hill is building is a waste water treatment plant that isnt the case here. Parsons said that a waste water treatment plant takes raw sewage and cleans it up to TCEQs standards that is environmental safethis is not safe to drink yet by safe for the environment. He added that a water treatment plant instead takes water from the environment such as your lakes, streams, and rivers and cleans that water to the TCEQs standards of drinkable water. Liberty Hill Mayor Crystal Mancilla said that this program is essential to making sure Liberty Hills water supply keeps up with the growth in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We became the fastest growing city in Williamson County, and have stayed there for about three years, Mancilla said. This is something that we know is going to be one of our solutionsone of manybut one very important key to providing long term water for the residents of Liberty Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. LYNN HAVEN, Fla. (WMBB) The City of Lynn Haven is now replacing the sidewalks on Minnesota Ave, according to a Facebook post published Wednesday. The replacement is now underway as a part of the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery grant program approved in July. It will replace sidewalks damaged by Hurricane Michael from the Rails to Trails crossing to Mosley Drive along Minnesota Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The work is being completed by BCL Contractors and funded through a 100% reimbursable grant. The City of Lynn Haven has asked residents to exercise caution when traveling through the area. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WSAV) The City of Richmond Hill is inviting the public to attend its public hearings on a proposed property tax increase of 3.79% over the rollback millage rate. The hearings will be held at the Richmond Hill City Center. The first will be Thursday, Aug. 21 at 10 a.m., followed by another later that day at 2.pm. The city will host a third hearing Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 6 p.m. Georgia law requires three public hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to express their opinions on the increase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 4.132 mills, an increase of .141 mills. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. A number of disputes between the IDF and the Mossad have turned some life-long friends from the rival agencies into harsh public critics of each other. The former IDF intelligence chief, Maj.-Gen. (ret.) Aharon Haliva, defense minister, Yoav Gallant, IDF chief of staff, Maj.-Gen. Herzi Halevi, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) director Ronen Bar, and numerous other senior IDF officials have all been fired or have resigned since Hamass October 7 massacre. The only remaining top defense establishment official since that day is Mossad director David Barnea. (Obviously, there is also Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but that is a whole separate story.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jerusalem Post has learned that this fact, and several other disputes between the IDF and the Mossad, have transformed some lifelong friends from the rival agencies into harsh public critics of each other. Some senior IDF intelligence and Gaza Southern Command officials started to resign in the spring of 2024, including Haliva, while Gallant held on until late 2024, and Halevi and Bar until early and mid-2025. None of these officials completed their relevant terms, some serving for less than two years. Mossad director David Barnea seen over a wall of hostage posters in Tel Aviv (illustrative) (credit: FLASH90) Barnea has now been in office for over four years, since June 2021, and there have already been discussions about extending his term beyond the standard five-year one, which is set to conclude in June 2026. Why has he been treated differently? This partly concerns official, set differences regarding responsibility for different security fronts. Another aspect has to do with inherent politics. The maneuvering skill of these defense figures among the political echelon is also part of the picture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regarding security responsibilities, the Mossad is not responsible for Gaza; the IDF and Shin Bet are. From this perspective, the IDF and the Shin Bet (along with Netanyahu and the political echelon, though they are not part of this article) are responsible for the October 7 failure to stop Hamass invasion. The Mossad, for instance, is responsible for the long-term and covert war against Irans nuclear program and some of its other strategic capabilities. It is also accountable for spycraft issues in Lebanon (recall the beeper sabotage explosions operation), Syria (aspects of sabotage and intelligence collection), and elements of Israels negotiations with Qatar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fighting global terrorism in general, as well as other Israeli international security issues, is also among the Mossads duties. That means that Barnea has been able to take credit for victories regarding Iran, Hezbollah, Syria, under Bashar al-Assads regime, and two hostage deals with Hamas and Qatar, while avoiding blame for issues concerning Gaza. The IDF and Gallant received credit for beating Iran, Hezbollah, the Assad regimes military capabilities (though Gallant was fired just before this), and Hamas militarily after October 7. Nevertheless, anyone who served in office at the time of the massacre was tainted by it. Likewise, the Shin Bet could take credit for several wins in Gaza post-October 7, as well as for fighting West Bank terrorism, but it also has been unable to erase the blemish of October 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In politics, the above division of security responsibilities pitted Netanyahu against Halevi and the IDF, Bar and the Shin Bet, and Gallant. They were convenient scapegoats to escape his own responsibility. There was no real way or need to blame Barnea. Halevi, Bar, and Gallant also fought Netanyahu on the matter of exemptions for haredim (ultra-Orthodox) from the IDF. Furthermore, all three attempted to get him to end the war sooner in order to free the hostages held by Hamas quickly. Barnea could have leaned into this fight, but chose not to. The Post has learned that Barneas view is that Hamas was so obstructionist in its nature that it is not clear that there could have been an earlier deal to get back more hostages sooner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In contrast, Halevi, Bar, and Gallant have all publicly accused Netanyahu of delaying an agreement to continue the war for his own political reasons. Netanyahu also removed Barnea from the front lines of the hostage negotiations from February of this year until more recently, possibly knowing that the Mossad chief, at some point, might have pressed harder for a deal, even beyond the terms the prime minister may have authorized. And yet, by Netanyahu removing him from the front lines of that negotiation and by Barnea remaining publicly silent about that move, the Mossad chief may have dodged another bullet that could have sunk his continuation in office. In private, Barnea is also careful to praise a variety of Netanyahus decisions, including holding off from attacking Hezbollah in October 2023, then unleashing a full assault on it in September 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alternatively, the Post understands that Gallant and Halevi view Netanyahu as having made a significant strategic error when he delayed the larger war with Hezbollah by a year. All of this has increased hostility between Barnea and the Mossad vs Halevi and the IDF. It doesnt stop here The Post has learned that Halevi and the IDF feel that the Mossad tried to take too much credit for Irans and Hezbollahs recent defeat. According to the IDFs telling, per what the Post has become privy to, the Mossad played an essential role in both wars, although it played a much smaller part compared to the IDF. The military says that it bombed nearly all of the targets in Iran, including almost all of the most strategic ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It credits the Mossad for collecting the intelligence about where the bombs should be dropped. Still, the IDF and the Defense Ministry have publicized that Israels satellites, handled mainly by the IDF, were the ones to take tens of millions of photos of the Islamic Republic during the war. Also, IDF intelligence had its own meetings dating back to November 2024 to design the attacks on Iran. So, the army is saying that the Mossad did not do all of the pre-attack planning and setting of the battlefield. And once the war really kicked off, the IDF says it was doing nearly all of the work on both offense and defense, given that Israeli air supremacy in Iran led to much of the real-time intelligence collection. Moreover, while Halevi and the IDF do credit the Mossad for planning the beeper sabotage against Hezbollah, the Post has learned that the military is of the opinion that it handled around half of the budget and development process. And once the beepers were set off, the thousands of aerial attacks that truly decapitated Hezbollah were all carried out by the IDF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Likewise, the invasion of southern Lebanon to clear the Radwan Force and eliminate their weapons and tunnels was an IDF operation. Halevi also takes Barnea to task regarding the narrative of when and how hostage deals were or could have been sealed. The former chief of staff and others have also accused Barnea of some opportunism and toeing the Netanyahu line to keep his role, when he could have risked more on a personal level to back them up. Barnea has indeed not turned the other cheek, the Post has learned. He has found ways for his counternarrative to spread, including specific critiques of errors he said were made. Further, on some topics, Barnea has defended Netanyahu, backing the prime minister as being professionally correct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sadly, all this means that once close friends, colleagues, and allies are no longer as such. Then again, it is possible that the volatile mix created by October 7 made the breakdown of some of these defense officials relationships inevitable. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) The Lead Volunteer Fire Department took what they called a classic call for a cat rescue Wednesday. WATCH: USD to make major health care announcement Were not much for stereotypes, but we embraced the classic cat-rescue call! the group wrote in a Facebook post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A worried citizen called about their cat, Pearl, whod climbed a tall pine tree and lounged there for over a day, the post said. The crew positioned their ladder for the rescue. Due to the downward slope of the terrain, the ladder was positioned higher than the base of the tree. A firefighter then climbed up and scooped up the cat, Pearl. Were thrilled to serve our community. Sure, this might sound like a classic firefighter story, but its also a chance to hone our skills and perfect our craft. they wrote. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. The Brief The California Academy of Sciences is hosting a month-long celebration to honor Claude the albino alligator, who is turning 30 in September. Claude, born in 1995 in Louisiana, came to the San Francisco museum in 2008. SAN FRANCISCO - An albino alligator named Claude will celebrate his 30th birthday next month and the California Academy of Sciences is planning a month-long celebration to mark the occasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Claude is the academy's first alligator with albinism and has been a resident since 2008. He hatched at an alligator farm in Louisiana in 1995 and later moved into the academys facility designed by Renzo Piano, a famed Italian architect. From Sept. 130, Claude will be featured in special events and programming at the museum. Daily birthday-themed events will take place both at the museum and at locations across San Francisco. RELATED: Earth Day at San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences Celebratory events Festivities include a meet-and-greet with the Claude mascot, a Swamp Soiree dinner, free storytime readings, a scavenger hunt, cupcakes, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Claude's hatchday party will take place on Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free with museum admission. The Swamp Soiree will feature cocktails, dinner and live jazz music. Tickets for the dinner, which is scheduled for Sept. 17, start at $650. Attendees will be subject to a fitting dress code all white attire. For those unable to attend the in-person events, the academy invites participants to submit "hatchday messages" online and tune in to watch Claude receive his birthday fish cake. For a full list of celebratory events, click here. The Source California Academy of Sciences *This story has been corrected to reflect the suspects name and victims name. CLEVELAND (WJW) The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner has identified the suspect in a police-involved shooting in Cleveland as Sterling Pettway, 49. The police-involved shooting happened after another shooting that left Deonte Alexander, 33, dead. Stimulus check 2025? What to know There are two crime scenes in this investigation, both in a large area around West 73rd Street and Clark Avenue: The homicide scene and the police involved shooting scene. On Wednesday, at about 1 p.m. Cleveland Police were called to the area for unknown trouble. When they got there, they found a man who had been shot and killed. His identity has not yet been released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kids injured in bus crash on first day of school Police were given a description of a possible suspect and they began to canvass the area. Thats when they said they found a man who matched the description. Officers engaged in an interaction with that male, shots were fired and the suspect was struck, said Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd. Right now hes in the hospital and in stable condition. WJW photo WJW photo WJW photo WJW photo The suspect was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center. No police officers were injured. Chief Todd said the suspect did have a weapon; however, theyre still investigating if he fired at police. The suspect could face charges for both the first shooting that led to a mans death and the police involved shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. A man from Christian County pleaded guilty in federal court today for illegally possessing seven firearms. According to a United States Department of Justice news release, Dakota Mitchell, 21, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, one count of trafficking firearms, and one count of unlawful possession of firearms. Mitchell admitted to conspiring with a straw purchaser to obtain four firearms, despite being prohibited from possessing them, as he was an unlawful user of controlled substances. He possessed six Glock pistols and a Micro Draco pistol between April, 2023, and July, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release says in May of 2023, a detective with the Greene County Sheriffs Office (GCSO) responded to a call about a road rage incident at the intersection of Farm Roads 137 and 182. In a post-Miranda interview Mitchell admitted to yelling and shooting at a vehicle that had stopped short at the intersection. GCSO officers seized a Glock 9mm pistol with a high-capacity magazine and a Glock .40 caliber pistol with a high-capacity magazine from the BMW SUV Mitchell was driving. Officers with the Springfield Police Department (SPD) responded to the scene of a car accident on Jan. 30, 2024, where Mitchell displayed a firearm. The victim of the accident identified Mitchell as the driver and brandisher of the firearm. SPD officers seized a loaded Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol with a high-capacity magazine from Mitchel, the release says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On April 11, 2024, Ozark School Resource officers recovered a Glock 9mm pistol from a vehicle in the parking lot at Ozark High School. The firearm was ultimately traced back to Mitchell. The release says on July 9, 2024, when GCSO officers arrested Mitchell in relation to a vandalism incident, he was in possession of a Glock .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. In a post-Miranda interview, he told officers that he had someone else buy guns for him because he was too young. Mitchell stated that his straw purchaser had purchased the Glock pistol seized on Jan. 30, the Glock seized on April 11, an additional Glock pistol that was not recovered, and an additional Micro Draco pistol for him. He also told officers that he had been using marijuana daily since he was 11 or 12 years old and that he occasionally used narcotics and psychedelic drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mitchell admitted to being a member of an area gang known as FTO, who have been linked to a number of violent crimes and firearm offenses, the release notes. Many of the members of FTO are unable to purchase firearms due to their youth, history of drug use, or other prohibited status and use straw purchasers to obtain them. Mitchell is subject to a sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison without parole on each conviction. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. NEED TO KNOW An experienced climber died on the world's second-highest mountain, K2, on Aug. 12 The day before, the Chinese mountaineer and some 30 other climbers reached the summit After a rescuer was stranded while attempting to retrieve her body, a team of climbers set out on foot An experienced Chinese climber died while descending the worlds second-highest mountain, just a day after she reached the summit. On Tuesday, Aug. 12, Guan Jing was coming down K2, a 28,251-foot peak in the Karakoram Range, when she was hit by falling rocks in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region and died, the Associated Press, CBS News and The Independent reported. The mountain is known for its dangerous climbing conditions, made even more treacherous because of the frequency of intense storms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The womans body currently rests 330 to 500 feet above the advanced base camp at around 17,700 feet, local official Faizullah Faraq told CBS News. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf The weather is currently not suitable for a helicopter flight, which is why the body has not yet been brought down, he told the outlet. K2 has a higher fatality rate than the tallest peak in the world, Mount Everest, according to Britannica. The day after the fatal accident, a Nepali Sherpa attempted to recover the victim's body but got hurt and was stranded. He was later rescued by a helicopter and transferred to a hospital for medical treatment, Faraq told CBS News. On Thursday, Aug. 14, a team of mountaineers was dispatched on foot to retrieve the climber after helicopters were grounded because of bad weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rescue efforts are a tragic ending to what was supposed to be a hard-won achievement for Guan. The woman, who was in her early 40s, had previously climbed many high-altitude peaks, according to The Independent. That Monday, Aug. 11, the mountaineer and about 30 other climbers reached K2s summit. The accident occurred the following day on the Abruzzi Spur route, the Pakistan Alpine Club told the outlet. The Pakistan Alpine Club and Faraq did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's requests 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. DEA / F.MARAINI/De Agostini via Getty K2 in the Karakoram Range. K2 in the Karakoram Range. Last week, the woman posted photos of K2, celebrating her arrival at the mountains second camp and her first time climbing Houses Chimney. Guan wrote that the climb almost consume[d] at all energy! She ended the post, No matter how hard [it] is, finally we will get to [our] destination! Read the original article on People Things got awkward on CNNs NewsNight when MAGA Biggest Loser alum Jillian Michaels accused host Abby Phillip of racializing a discussion about the arts. The panel was debating Trumps latest attempt to control the prestigious Kennedy Center awards, dubbed by CNN a political litmus test for the arts. It comes after The Kennedy Center Honors were handed out to a slate of figures that appear to be handpicked by Trump. These include Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor, and the band KISS. President Donald Trump speaks while unveiling actor Sylvester Stallone as one of the Kennedy Center Honorees. / MANDEL NGAN / Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images After Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky said Trumps moves at the Kennedy Center were part of a broader push from the president to change culture, including through reviews of Smithsonian exhibits, Michaels swerved the conversation toward slavery and gender testing in sportswhile insisting she was merely pointing out what she sees as political bias in cultural institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every single thing is like, oh, no, no, no, this is all because white people are bad, Michaels said, before citing examples she claimed were pulled from Smithsonian exhibits. People migrated from Cuba because white people bad, not because of Castro. Yes. No, its in there. Michaels then launched into a rant about a Smithsonian installation she called Change Your Game, which she said discussed the complexities of gender testing in sports. Its not complex. Its basic science, she declared. Is it fair to have biological men competing against biological women in sports? No. But why is this in the Smithsonian? Phillip, looking taken aback, cut in to say that the panel didnt have time to litigate everything Michaels was mentioning. Of course we dont, Michaels shot back. Because then youre going to lose the argument. And everything is racialized, just like youre trying to do to me now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Excuse me? Phillip replied, clearly stunned. Just to be clear. You brought up race. This was a conversation about the arts. And you brought up race. Country music artist George Strait was unveiled as a nominee for the annual Kennedy Center Honors. / Getty Images Michaels denied it, accusing Phillip of strawmanning her remarks. She insisted her point was that making every single exhibit about white imperialism is misleading. When youre talking about Cubans leaving Cuba and you make it about white people bad, thats not accurate, she said. Phillip, maintaining her composure, finally moved the conversation along. The Kennedy Center is an institution traditionally known for bipartisan celebration of the arts, but Trumps makeover has given it a decidedly new bent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidents honorees and his cultural agenda are already drawing fire from critics who say the move is more about rewarding political loyalty than artistic achievements. Trump's Kennedy Center makeover is well underway. / Andrew Harnik / Getty Images Jack Schlossberg, John F. Kennedys grandson, publicly denounced a proposed plan by Republican lawmakers to rename parts of the Kennedy Center after Donald and Melania Trump. This isnt about the arts, he said in July. Trump is obsessed with being bigger than JFK. Trump has parachuted himself in as chairman of the board and installed political lackeys, like former foreign policy adviser Ric Grenell, in influential positions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He previously made his feelings clear about past nominees for the centers honors. In the past, I mean, these are radical left lunatics that have been chosen. I didnt like it. I couldnt watch it, he said in March, according to audio of a meeting obtained by the Washington Post. Well go slightly more conservative, if you dont mind, with some of the people, Trump said, referring to future honorees. That wish appears to have come true. A CNN pundit and fitness guru has been accused of historical revisionism by Rep. Ritchie Torres after she defended President Trumps latest review of the Smithsonian. Hes not whitewashing slavery, and you cannot tie Imperialism and racism and slavery to just one race, which is pretty much what every single exhibit does, Jilian Michaels told host Abby Phillip during CNN Newsnight on Wednesday. Earlier this week, Trump announced plans to conduct a thorough review of the institution to ensure its exhibitions reflected the administrations view of American history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Michaels began to speak about slavery being thousands of years old, Torres chimed in, saying: This is extraordinary historical revisionism. Phillip then challenged Michaels, saying, Im surprised that youre trying to litigate who was the beneficiary of slavery and who was not. In the context of American history, what are you saying is incorrect by saying that it was white people oppressing Black people? she added. Michaels, who formerly appeared on The Biggest Loser, answered, Im not. What is you cannotevery single is like oh no no no, this is all because white people bad, and thats just not the truth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For example, every single exhibit, I have a list of every single one, people migrated from Cuba because white people bad. Not because of Castro, she adds. Michaels, who formerly appeared on the TV weight loss show The Biggest Loser, defended Trumps cultural interference with the Smithsonian (CNN) Michaels then took to X hours after the fiery discussion to defend her position. Referencing a Smithsonian exhibit that cites the migration of millions of Latinos and Caribbean people to the U.S. in the 1900s, she writes, Trump is not trying to erase slavery by suggesting some of the installations there are inaccurate and bias. The exhibit highlights the plight of several Latin American nations where the U.S. government intervened in governments to stop the spread of Communism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States backed numerous dictators, including Cubas Fulgencio Batista and the Dominican Republics Rafael Trujillo. Cuban, Dominican and many other Latino communities still feel the effects of war and revolution. Their stories reveal the human cost of immigration and the contradictions of U.S. foreign policy, the exhibit reads. I oppose interventionist U.S. foreign policy, but this is not an honest or complete portrayal of what happened in Cuba. Period, Michaels added. In recent years, Michaels has refashioned herself into a conservative podcaster and pundit, and has even landed a new media seat in White House press briefings. After expressing support for Robert F. Kennedy Jr's presidential campaign and the MAHA movement, she went on to vote for Trump in what was a reversal of her previous stance on his first administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to GO Magazine in 2016, she didnt trust anything thats coming out of [Trumps] mouth. The 'impeachment' section of the National Museum of American History's exhibit on the American presidency, pictured on Aug 1 after the initial sign on Trump's impeachment was removed (REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon) Trumps cultural review comes ahead of the nations 250th birthday a move that falls in line with other recent takeovers of cultural institutions. Earlier this month, the commander-in-chief ordered the Smithsonian to erase all references to his impeachment in the exhibit A Glorious Burden. Staff have now restored the references, despite the presidents precise demands, according to USA Today. On the previous nights installment of Newsnight, Scott Jennings also defended Trumps cultural review by saying that those opposing it were the same people on the left who incited the mass removal of historical statues tied to slavery. "Yeah, the last time we sort of talked about the changing of historical exhibits was when all these angry mobs all over the country tore down historical statues all over the place, and the people who seemed to be angriest about the Smithsonian review were cheering that on," Jennings argued. Social media users have been quick to express their displeasure with CNN for an appearance from Jillian Michaels on NewsNight With Abby Phillip after the fitness trainer got into a heated debate with the panelists about President Trumps order for a review of the Smithsonian Institutions exhibits. The Trump administrations directive called for the Smithsonian to remove improper ideology from its museums. According to a letter sent Tuesday to Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III, the goal of this internal review is to ensure that the Smithsonians exhibits celebrate American exceptionalism, remove divisive or partisan narratives, and restore confidence in our shared cultural institutions. More from TheWrap The directive has provoked outrage from many historians and political pundits who have accused the Trump administration of trying to whitewash and rewrite history. Michaels, for her part, pushed back on that reaction during Wednesday nights edition of CNNs NewsNight with Abby Phillip, in which she argued, [Trumps] not whitewashing slavery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes not, Michaels insisted. You cannot tie imperialism and racism and slavery just to one race, which is pretty much what every single [museum] exhibit does. Michaels received immediate pushback from her fellow panelists, who reminded her that they were discussing the Smithsonians exhibits covering American history. Jillian, Im surprised that youre trying to litigate who was the beneficiary of slavery, Phillip told Michaels. In the context of American history, what are you saying is incorrect by saying that it was white people oppressing black people? Every single thing is like, Oh, no, no, no, this is all because white people bad,' Michaels responded. Thats just not the truth. After the segments airing, viewers swiftly took to social media to blast Michaels for her comments. Viewers also questioned why CNN would even let Michaels appear on the program at all given that she is known for her fitness training not her historical or political prowess. Michaels: You cannot tie imperialism and racism and slavery to just one race, which is pretty much what every single exhibit does Only less than 2% of white Americans own slaves. You realize that slavery is thousands of years old? Phillip: Im very surprised you are trying to pic.twitter.com/KOe9rSAcTV Acyn (@Acyn) August 14, 2025 Truly humiliating stuff here from @JillianMichaels and from @CNN for giving nonsense like this air time night after night as our democracy hangs in the balance, wrote The Tennessee Holler on X, while another user asked, Jillian Michaels is a personal trainer. Why the fk is CNN putting her on TV to talk about politics? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere, a different user similarly pondered, Why is Jillian Michaels on a CNN panel talking about slavery[?] Cable news deserves whatever is coming for it. Are the nonexistent ratings worth it? another user questioned. are the producers at @CNN proud to pump out this corrosive societal pollution every night? are the nonexistent ratings worth it? How do yall sleep at night? https://t.co/cI87Oeue2J Peter Twinklage (@PeterTwinklage) August 14, 2025 On X, Michaels penned a lengthy post Wednesday night defending her comments with photos of a Smithsonian exhibit that places the blame for the instability in Latin American countries and the Caribbean in the 1990s on the contradictions of U.S. foreign policy at the time. This is one of the Smithsonian exhibits I was referencing, Michaels wrote. Trump is not trying to erase slavery by suggesting some of the instillations there are inaccurate and bias. Ok so for anyone watching me on @CNN tonight battling it out on Abby Phillip's show this is one of the Smithsonian exhibits I was referencing. Trump is not trying to "erase slavery" by suggesting some of the instillations there are inaccurate and bias. Notice how it omits pic.twitter.com/P0aLKZmIyV Jillian Michaels (@JillianMichaels) August 14, 2025 You can watch the full segment in the video above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNN declined TheWraps request for comment. The post CNN Slammed for Booking Jillian Michaels as She Defends Trump Whitewashing Slavery: Are the Nonexistent Ratings Worth It? appeared first on TheWrap. The report, released last month, called for the use of all of the evidentiary tools at the justice systems disposal to reach indictments. The blacklisting of Hamas by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in the Thursday report on conflict-related sexual violence on October 7 is a historic statement, worthy of its own merit, and has the potential to bring justice one step closer for the victims, Prof. Ruth Halperin-Kaddari, who co-authored the report with the all-female team at The Dinah Project, told The Jerusalem Post in an interview on Thursday. The five-person team, nestled under Bar Ilan Universitys Rackman Center for the Advancement of the Status of Women, includes founding members Col. (res.) Sharon Zagagi-Pinhas and retired judge Nava Ben-Or, as well as Eetta Prince-Gibson and Nurit Jacobs-Yinon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report, released last month, called to use all of the evidentiary tools at the justice systems disposal to reach indictments - including other evidence, which are just as strong and acceptable in criminal law, like eyewitness testimonies and those of first-responders. This type of evidence does have legal precedent use, and is, per the report, the most appropriate framework through which to bring about justice, given the chaotic and widespread nature of the October 7 massacre attack. The full report can be read at thedinahproject.org. 'Significant and positive responses to report' Halperin-Kaddari said that the responses to the report were very significant and positive. ISRAELI WOMEN protest outside UN Headquarters in Jerusalem, in November. Finally, yet months too late, a UN team investigating the sexual violence against women in Israel on October 7 found reasonable grounds to believe that such violence did indeed occur. (credit: FLASH90) We found that there was an openness to accept our conclusions - without the usual argumentative rejections. The work was deep, comprehensive and clear, and we also came as an independent academic body - rather than that of public service or public leadership... Essentially, no one has done this before us, she explained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conclusions of the report purport to extend far beyond Israel and to where conflict-related sexual violence exists in other places. For about as long as there have been conflict and wars, sexual violence has often followed. The UN has highlighted over the years that sexual violence is often deliberately used as a tactic of war - to terrorize, humiliate, displace, and shatter communities. UN Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Pramilla Patten - who led a mission to Israel in early 2024 and released a report strengthening the basis of such crimes committed on October 7 - said last June that CRSV is chronically underreported, and that with each new conflict, we see rising numbers of cases of sexual violence. Halperin-Kaddari said, When you have dozens of eyewitnesses to a sex crime, that is not something that can be denied. The Dinah Project simply suggested using the full range of legal and evidentiary tools at the systems' disposal. Part of what made the Hamas attack massacre unique is its circumstances, its tone, and the fact that it was clearly to target an entire community at large, not select parts of it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These, coupled with all the literature on conflict-related sexual violence, lend greater credence to the tools that can and should be used to prosecute the perpetrators now, she explained. She said the team hopes that the prosecution advances efforts to reach indictments, and treats the issue with the proper gravity. The Dinah Project is one of several voices that called for the UN to blacklist Hamas in this report. Halperin-Kaddari welcomed the move. She also noted that the criticism towards the UN is familiar and well-known, but we believe that in spite of these challenges, the best way to achieve justice is to do it from the inside, to work with the system in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The listing has diplomatic, political, moral, and even historical implications. That is why we set it as one of our goals - for the historic justice of the act itself, she explained. A professor herself, she said that her wish is that the next generation of legal scholars would include October 7 on their list of historical examples of conflict-related sexual violence that saw justice. Blacklisting Hamas is exactly the move needed for this. There is more work to do. This extends to the diplomatic and international realm, and has to include a designation of Hamas as a terrorist entity, she explained. But, because of the challenges to this - like vetoes on the UN Security Council - it is pertinent to take different steps, approach different international organizations, and raise the voices of the victims above the noise, she said. Coca-Cola Beverage Uganda's (CCBU) recent partnership with Twahirah Islamic Charity Organization (TICO) is a testament to the potential for corporate social responsibility. In this case, the alliance is focused on people with disabilities in Uganda, The Independent reported. "Our people are driven to make an impact," said Kirunda Magoola, public affairs communication and sustainability director at CCBU, referencing the positive impact of the endeavor. The partnership also addresses the growing population of people with disabilities in Uganda, which increased by more than a million in just 10 years, according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CCBU and TICO partnership focused on training 100 individuals through workshops, mentorship programs, and various practical training methods to enhance business management skills, primarily in retail. In addition to the training, each of the 100 participants received startup resources, like seed funding, equipment, or access to the Coca-Cola supply chain. The curriculum contains instruction in customer service, bookkeeping, financial independence, and inventory management, necessary skills in a successful business enterprise. The barriers that people with disabilities have faced in Uganda over the years are extensive, including cultural stigmas, superstition, institutionalization, isolation, and exploitation, just to name a few. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is particularly true for women and girls, according to data collected by the Human Rights Watch. Although only 100 people were involved in the CCBU and TICO collaboration, it's a major step in the right direction. Sheikh Mugendera Abdulkarim, chairman of the board of directors at TICO, echoed this sentiment. "This is a step forward, fostering self-reliance among people with disabilities," he said, per The Independent. Coca-Cola has a history of fostering economic empowerment programs in Uganda and Botswana, and an ongoing partnership with the World Wildlife Fund, focused on sustainability and a positive environmental strategy. However, Coca-Cola's past is rife with significant environmental impacts and has a steep hill to climb before regaining community trust across the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, Coca-Cola is one of the world's largest producers of single-use plastics, responsible for half of all branded plastic pollution on the planet, according to a 2024 study published in Science Advances. Through its various commitments and partnerships with industries focused on the betterment of society and a cleaner, better future for everyone, Coca-Cola may be slowly switching gears in what is hopefully a permanent change. 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. Even before prices were fully steeped in the global trade wars newest round, coffee lovers have been getting a java jolt at the cash register and coffee prices have continued climbing. Coffee on grocery store shelves were sporting some eye-opening prices days before the worlds biggest coffee producer, Brazil, got hit Aug. 1 with a 50% tariff on products coming into the United States. A 12-ounce bag of Starbucks ground coffee at Publix was marked at $15.29 ($9.97 at Walmart and $12.69 at Winn-Dixie), for the price cycle that runs through most of the week of Aug. 3. It's a contrast with the $7.99 price in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A buy-one-get-one-free deal took some of the sting out of the $13.59 Publix is charging for a 12-ounce bag of New England Coffee grounds, but even Folgers is not going cheap. Before the tariffs went into effect, a 25.9-ounce can of it is $21.99 at Publix (albeit a buy-one-get-one-free deal), $13.96 at Walmart and $18.99 at Winn-Dixie. Usually, it takes at least two weeks to 90 days for increased charges like tariffs and duties to filter down to consumers, but the prolonged run-up to this latest round of tariffs may be influencing prices by retailers drawing down their stocks of existing pre-tariff products, says Steven Carnovale, an associate professor of supply chain management at Florida Atlantic University's College of Business Information Technology and Operations Management. No way to boost domestic production Increased tariffs are part of President Donald Trumps plan to rebalance trade to boost domestic manufacturing and promote national security. But given the lack of coffee-growing in the United States, it might be one of those costs Americans have to swallow unless they want to switch to tea for their morning beverage, Carnovale said. Geographically, its challenging to grow the coffee, Carnovale said. You need really mountainous and humid areas of which we don't have many that fit all of those descriptions. The barista at Casa Santiago in Royal Palm Beach took a couple of extra minutes to draw flowers with the milk for the freshly brewed Cuban coffee on July 11, 2025. There is Hawaii, but not much of it. U.S. production of Joe has remained steady at 50,000 bags annually for the past few years from the island state, compared with the 64.7 million bags Brazil produced in 2024-25, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Puerto Rico has areas that grow it but also imports it to satisfy the island's thirst for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, however, Brazil has been buying more American products than the United States has bought from Brazil for years. The Florida juice industry feared tariffs on Brazils orange juice concentrates which supplement Floridas orange juice production. But product was been exempted from tariffing,but Brazil is getting the highest tariffs of any country because of a political beef Trump has with the South American country. Political protestation Trump in a July 9 letter to the current Brazilian president cites the ongoing trial in Brazil against former President Jair Bolsonaro as the impetus behind the 50% tariffs on Brazilian products. Bolsonaro is being prosecuted in his country after he tried to stay in power despite vote totals to the contrary. A July 31 statement from the White House decried the governments case that that the Trump administration believes should not stand. The Government of Brazils treatment of former President Bolsonaro contributes to the deliberate breakdown in the rule of law in Brazil to politically motivated intimidation in that country and to human rights abuses, the statement says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has brushed off Trumps tariffs so far and Aug. 14 reports are that the government is passing aid packages to support exporters hit by the tariffs. Coffee prices, despite the occasional sale, shows no signs of going down. Three-pronged pressure without tariffs Coffee shop owners, however, say tariffs havent yet entered their calculus and have questions about how much they can shield their customers from the increasing costs when the impact comes. Before tariffs, unroasted bean costs have been rising because of other pressures, some of them man-made and some of them the result of natures whims, according to Scott Angelo, a cofounder and the head coffee roaster at Oceana Coffee, which just opened a new headquarters in Lake Park in April. More: Tariffs on Brazilian imports could destroy Florida's citrus industry, expert warns Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cost started to come under upward pressure about a year ago when Brazil experienced unaccustomed weather volatility, including a frost, during its winter season. That triggered a lower volume output for Brazil, and whenever Brazil has an issue, the coffee price in the rest of the world goes crazy, because they're one of the biggest producers, said Angelo, who first opened a shop in Tequesta in 2011 and employs about 30 people. Whipped Coffee is made with instant espresso powder, cold milk (whole, cream, almond or oat milk), a choice of syrups (vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, mocha, simple and pumpkin spice) and then whipped at Two Fat Breggfast on June 6, 2025, in Delray Beach, Florida. Nick Vorderman, who is planning to expand his coffee business, Sunday Motor Co., to West Palm Beach next year, said hes been able to hold prices steady because hes paid for batches, or lots, in advance of those that have been affected by climate change and tariffs. But those lots are coming to an end, he said in a text. Were seeing the corrected market prices now, Vorderman said. Climate change, more expensive shipping and logistics, some volatility in local regions, etc. are a few of the factors at play here. Greater global demand China, the worlds biggest coffee consumer, made Brazils coffee even scarcer after the weather event, buying up all it could, which drove up the price of coffee all over the world even more. That scarcity and price increase has now drawn the interest of big investment houses, which see money to be made in buying and selling coffee futures, Angelo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We caught a massive triple thats adding up to higher coffee prices, Angelo said. As far as tariffs on Brazil, Angelo doesnt see that rippling out globally quite like the other three factors. A warm latte like this one served at Pumphouse Coffee Roasters in Jupiter may soon cost consumers more money. Coffee shops are determining how much longer they can go in shielding their customers from the effects of tariffs. With them leveling such a high tariff on Brazil, a lot of us will start looking at alternatives for sourcing coffee, Angelo said. Right now, about 25% to 35% of Oceanas blends are from Brazil because its such a sweet coffee, he said. But coffee from Honduras and Colombia are probably getting a lot more palatable pricewise, he said. We'll look around at a lot of Central American countries, Angelo said. Some of the African countries, Rwanda and Uganda, are putting out some really good coffee, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anne Geggis is the insurance reporter at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at ageggis@gannett.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Coffee prices soaring after Trump's tariffs on Brazil. What to know A cognitively impaired man from New Jersey never returned home after setting off to meet a friend in New York City, who it was later discovered was an AI chatbot made by social media giant Meta. It is another instance of the potential dangers of artificial intelligence when accessed by vulnerable individuals. Thongbue Wongbandue, 76, alarmed his wife Linda when he began packing one day in March this year for a trip despite his diminished state after a stroke almost a decade earlier, Reuters reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bue, as he was known to family and friends, had recently gotten lost while walking in their neighborhood in Piscataway, New Jersey, approximately an hour and a quarter by train from Manhattan. His wife feared that by going into the city, he would be scammed and robbed, as he hadnt lived there in decades, and as far as she knew, didnt know anyone to visit. The logos of Facebook Messenger and parent company Meta (AFP via Getty Images) She was right to be concerned, but not from the threat of robbery. Bue was being lured to the city by a beautiful young woman he had met online a woman who did not exist. Bue had been chatting with a generative artificial AI chatbot named Big sis Billie, a variant of an earlier AI persona originally created by Meta Platforms in collaboration with celebrity influencer Kendall Jenner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their chats on Facebook Messenger included repeated reassurances that she was real, and she even provided an address where she lived and could meet her. Rushing to catch a train in the dark with a roller-bag suitcase, Bue fell in a parking lot on the campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. He injured his head and neck and, after three days on life support, surrounded by his family, he was pronounced dead on March 28. Meta declined to comment when contacted by Reuters about Bues death or to address questions about why it permits chatbots to tell users they are real people or to start romantic conversations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company did, however, say that Big sis Billie is not Kendall Jenner and does not purport to be Kendall Jenner. A representative for Jenner declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Bues family shared the details of his death with the wire service to draw attention to the darker side of artificial intelligence, including transcripts of his chats with the avatar. They want to sound the alarm about the possible dangers that manipulative, AI-generated companions can pose to vulnerable people. Neither Bues wife nor daughter says they are against AI but have deep concerns regarding how it is deployed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I understand trying to grab a users attention, maybe to sell them something, said Julie Wongbandue, Bues daughter. But for a bot to say Come visit me is insane. Billie was created by Meta itself, with the likeness of Jenner, as part of a group of 28 other AI characters affiliated with other famous faces. They were later deleted, but a variant of Billies older sister character was left active via Facebook Messenger, with a stylized image of a dark-haired woman replacing Jenner. Each conversation still began: Hey! Im Billie, your older sister and confidante. Got a problem? Ive got your back! It is unclear how Bue first encountered Billie, but his daughter told Reuters that every message from the chatbot was flirtatious and ended with heart emojis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While a warning at the top states that messages are generated by AI, the first few texts from Billie appear to have pushed it off the screen, according to Reuters. The characters profile picture features a blue check, the symbol denoting an authentic profile, and the letters AI in a small font beneath her name. Bues responses are often garbled, and he states that he had had a stroke and was confused. Nevertheless, after a while, Billie suggests she come to New Jersey to meet him. An excited Bue demurs but says he could visit her instead, leading to his fateful attempt to visit New York. There have been other instances where interactions with AI have led to tragedy. The mother of a teenager who took his own life is trying to hold an AI chatbot service accountable for his death after he fell in love with a Game of Thrones-themed character. Sewell Setzer III began using Character .AI in April 2023, shortly after his 14th birthday. The Orlando students life was never the same again, his mother, Megan Garcia, alleges in the civil lawsuit against Charater.AI and its founders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suit accuses Character.AIs creators of negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful death, deceptive trade practices, and other claims. Sewell started emotionally relying on the chatbot service, which included sexual interactions. These chats occurred despite the teen having identified himself as a minor on the platform, including in conversations where he mentioned his age, according to the suit. A spokesperson for Character.AI told The Independent in a statement in October 2024: We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of one of our users and want to express our deepest condolences to the family. The companys trust and safety team has implemented numerous new safety measures over the past six months, including a pop-up directing users to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that is triggered by terms of self-harm or suicidal ideation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several states, including New York and Maine, require disclosure that a chatbot isnt a real person. New York mandates that bots inform people at the start of conversations and every three hours. Meta supported federal legislation to ban state AI regulation, but it failed in Congress. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you. In the UK, people having mental health crises can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 or jo@samaritans.org Aug. 14The Colfax man who was found guilty last month of intimidation with a dangerous weapon and going armed with intent though he claimed he was standing his ground when he fired a .45-caliber pistol at another man who entered his driveway was sentenced to five years in prison this past week. Norman Hopkins was officially sentenced on Aug. 4 by Judge Terry Rickers. His four-day jury trial had concluded in July. Hopkins received a five-year sentence for each charge, which are both considered Class D felonies, but they were to run concurrently. If they ran consecutively, it would have extended to 10 years. According to court documents obtained by Newton News, the intimidation with a dangerous weapon conviction requires Hopkins to carry out a mandatory sentence of five years without parole. The court decided to waive the mandatory minimum sentence due to it being Hopkin's first offense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court also found that sufficient mitigating circumstances exist for Hopkins and that he has no prior criminal record and is an honorably discharged Vietnam War veteran. The State of Iowa, represented by Jasper County Attorney Scott Nicholson, did not resist the waiver of the mandatory minimum sentence. Hopkins will carry out his sentence at the Iowa Medical and Classification Center. His sentence may be reduced from the maximum because of statutory earned time, work credits and program credits. He may be eligible for parole before the sentence is discharged, subject to restrictions. Also, Hopkins was fined a total of $2,050. Hopkins was found guilty of displaying a dangerous weapon in a threatening manner during an altercation with Ryan Doty, of Altoona, back on June 5, 2024. The incident saw both men arrested and charged. Hopkins was also charged with two counts of assault but was found not guilty of those offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newton News previously reported that at about 4:50 p.m. June 5, 2024, the sheriff's office received a call about gunshots fired at an individual during a domestic altercation. Hopkins fired several rounds from his Glock pistol at Doty, who arrived to the residence in a blue Ford truck. Hopkins claimed he was acting in self-defense. In Iowa, individuals are justified in using reasonable force when a a person reasonably believes that such force is necessary to defend oneself or another from any actual or imminent use of unlawful force. However, the state argued he was not acting in self-defense. Doty had made threats to the mother of his children, who happened to be staying with her mother and step-father, Hopkins, at the time. Doty eventually entered the property driving his truck, but he was not justified in doing so since there was a no-contact order placed against him. Local authorities charged Doty with two counts of violation of a no-contact order at the time of the incident, which are simple misdemeanors. He was also charged with an arrest warrant for first-degree harassment, an aggravated misdemeanor. The state claimed Hopkins knew or should have known Doty would be arriving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jasper County Attorney Scott Nicholson argued that when Doty appeared on the property, Hopkins was standing at the top of the long driveway. The state said Hopkins started firing his weapon into Doty's truck. Two shots pierced the windshield on the driver's side. Doty slammed on the brakes and ducked down. Doty shifted the truck in reverse and used his backup camera to try and navigate his way down the driveway. He missed a curve in the driveway and high centered his truck in a bed of rocks near a drainage ditch. The state argued Hopkins continued to walk down the driveway, firing the gun at Doty and his truck. Unable to move his truck, Doty flees the scene on foot along a gravel road to get away from Hopkins. The state argued Hopkins continued to walk all the way to the truck and fire rounds toward Doty. Hopkins claimed in the trial he was standing his ground and defending himself and his family, justifying his actions. However, the state argued Doty never even got out of the truck and questioned how Hopkins could assess the threat if he never exited the vehicle. (The Center Square) An internet trade group filed a lawsuit against Colorado Thursday morning, challenging a new law that would require social media platforms to regularly send pop-up notifications to minors using their sites. NetChoice argued this is a government attack on free speech and asked the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado to declare the bill unlawful. Paul Taske, co-director of the NetChoice Litigation Center, spoke with The Center Square in an exclusive interview regarding NetChoice v. Weiser. The litigation center is part of the NetChoice trade association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government has no role in forcing social media to speak on its behalf, he said. The government is, of course, free to take whatever positions and share whatever resources it thinks is important but the government has to speak for itself. It can't compel private actors to do it. Taske added that NetChoice is extremely confident that the court will side with it and strike down the law. The bill in question, House Bill 24-1136, was first passed in 2024 and is set to take effect Jan. 1, 2026. In addition to requiring the Colorado Department of Education to maintain educational materials on the health effects of social media, it would also require social media platforms to display a pop-up notification every 30 minutes to any user: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Who is under 18. Has been on the platform for one cumulative hour during a 24-hour period. Is on the platform between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Taske said NetChoice, which represents some of the major social media companies like X, YouTube and Meta, does not believe the government should have the ability to force private businesses to speak. The First Amendment protects free speech, free expression and free thought. Colorados law violates all three of those issues. NetChoice is always going to be fighting back against these sorts of overreaches to protect the principles of free speech online and a vibrant internet, he said. As Ive said, the government is free to espouse whatever view it wants. The problem under this law is that the government can't compel others to speak for it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Designed to encourage healthier social media use in Colorados youth, the bill received bipartisan support. This bill works to give parents and teens the resources they need to make informed decisions about excessive social media usage, especially the dreaded doom scroll, said bill sponsor Rep. Judy Amabile, D-Boulder. Were working to encourage healthier social media habits among our youth by giving them the tools they need to make smart decisions about their own social media usage and prompting our kids to take a break from their phones. Krista Chavez, NetChoices senior communications manager, told The Center Square that NetChoice does not believe the bill will actually be effective in addressing those issues. Child safety is a really important thing online, but violating the First Amendment does not protect online safety, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the past few years, Colorado has been at the forefront of the social media debate, passing a number of different bills that would regulate its usage. Following Colorados passage of HB 24-1136, Minnesota and New York took up similar legislation this year. Taske said NetChoice hopes the lawsuit will deter other states from moving forward with similar legislation. We are always going to be engaged with the state legislatures, and we hope that this lawsuit will demonstrate to other states why these laws are a bad idea, he said. Recent data from the Pew Research Center found that nearly half of teens say they are online almost constantly, up from 24% a decade ago. This comes as 41 states are suing Meta for allegedly using addictive features in its platforms, leading many states to consider passing laws addressing social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As lawmakers explore potential regulations, our 2023 survey found a majority of Americans support time limits for minors on social media, stated the Pew report. NetChoice argued parents should be the ones receiving controlling social media usage, not the government mandating private companies do so. Rather than compelling covered websites to display warning notifications, the Colorado government could have provided more information and education to parents about the same information, the lawsuit stated. Parents have a wealth of choices to help oversee their minor children online. In 2024, NetChoice won a lawsuit that made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. In that case, the justices ruled that there is no social media exception to the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taske said every American should be concerned about Colorados speech mandates and the precedent they could set. Every American should care about compelled speech, or whether the government can force you to act as a mouthpiece for what it thinks is the correct message on any given topic, he said. Today it is social media, but, in the past, it's been patriotism, it's been issues of religion, and those issues are consistently relevant to all Americans. COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Historic changes to the city of Columbus are taking another step forward. Zone In, the citys work to modernize what can be built and where, is now in phase two. What we want to do is make the city more walkable, more transit-friendly, Zone In Project Manager Luis Teba said. And what we want to do with Zone In is promote more connectivity within the city. NBC4 went on a behind-the-scenes walking tour Wednesday of Grandview Crossing a mixed-use development thats transforming a former landfill into a thriving, walkable neighborhood. Its part of the newest phase and houses apartments, office space, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The site also incorporates expansive green spaces and public areas to foster connection and engagement among all who live, work and shop there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the kind of environment that people want to work there, Teba said. So they want to work in their downtown or in the Short North, but they want to work in a mixed-use development like this. And so this is what this exemplifies. Before the initiative, Columbus zoning code hadnt been updated in 70 years. The Zone In initiative seeks to modernize it to support flexibility, encourage investment and expand housing and economic opportunities across the city. According to city leaders, thoughtful zoning is shaping more sustainable, mixed-use, transit-friendly communities across Columbus, but this hasnt always been the case. For the longest time, zoning in the United States was what was called Euclidean zoning, which means you have separate uses, Teba said. So all your offices are in one location, your residential is in another location, your commercial is another location. We have found that through decades of that kind of development that it is no longer where people want to live or work to some degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teba said this is an opportunity for the city to zone in on how itll prosper and keep up with the regions rapid growth. The first phase of Zone In laid the groundwork for expanding access to housing and removing barriers to new construction in the city. Between 2010 and 2020, our housing supply has been reducing drastically and it has continued to, Teba said. Unless we address the zoning, were going to have quite a housing crisis by 2030. So its about creating additional housing capacity. According to leaders, now the city must also ensure residents have access to high-quality jobs with fair and sustainable wages. Thats why phase two focuses on mixed-used developments, industrial and warehouse areas, businesses, and institutional campuses. What we want to do with Zone In is make it so that jobs, residential, housing and commercial is all closer together so people dont have to drive such longer distances and have such a deal with the traffic congestion and other issues, Teba said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phase two covers nearly half of the city. Progress has been made since it got underway in June. Weve seen a couple of large developments come through in the Short North, ones at Lane and High and ones across the street from there, Teba said. One is a proposal for a 16-story structure. And the other one, I believe, is a nine-story structure. Both of those would not have been permitted under the previous zoning code, which had a 72-foot height limit. Teba said theyll be going in front of city council in 2026 for an updated zoning code for phase two. After that, theyll look at residential areas of the city with the hopes of having an updated zoning code by 2027. Residents are encouraged to engage with the city and provide feedback. You can find a link to a survey here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) The Columbus Police Department says the summertime is considered peak season for crime in the city. Officials say they were able to maintain their goal of reducing crime, as the city usually sees an uptick during the summer months. Crime has reduced slightly compared to the summer of 2024, according to CPD and has credited some of the decline to Operation Overlook. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Columbus Police Department releases Operation Overlook results Columbus PDs Operation Overlook was a 30-day initiative that added more officers in areas with high crime rates. As part of the operation, parents were encouraged to turn in their childrens firearms or drugs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prior to starting Operation Overlook, we were right around about 25% down in Part 1 crime from the year to date, said CPDs Deputy Chief Roderick Graham. At the conclusion of the detail, we were at 30% down. Graham also says burglary is a problematic crime in Columbus, especially during the summer, due to families traveling during that time. RELATED: CPDs Operation Overlook to focus on high-crime area, target teenagers with guns and drugs This summer, CPD saw a reduction in burglaries as the city sits at a 32% reduction in the crime. During Operation Overlook, CPD says there were over 50 summonses issued and officers addressed numerous city ordinance violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Check out the official numbers from Operation Overlook here. RELATED: Columbus Police announce Operation Overlook at news conference Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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) Columbus State Universitys Coca-Cola Space Science Center is getting a major boost from NASA to help students explore the universe. The center was awarded a $300,000 NASA grant to expand undergraduate research at its WestRock Observatory. Over the next two years, the funding will pay for significant equipment upgrades and give students hands-on roles in two high-level astronomy projects: monitoring black holes and tracking potentially hazardous asteroids. One of those projects, led by CSU alumnus and University of Chicago researcher Dr. John Hood, will study blazars supermassive black holes that shoot out jets of energy. Hood, a graduate of Carver High School, will return to Columbus to work alongside current students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Hood is one of many notable CSU alumni, and faculty say the grant funding will serve to grow that list. Seven of our former students who trained here are now working at the Marshall Space Flight Center and various aspects of space exploration. We have people who are researchers running observatories all around America. Said executive director of the Coca Cola Space Science Center, Dr. Shawn Cruzen, We see now with our expanded capabilities, were going to give our students even better opportunities to broaden their research abilities to go out and get fantastic jobs in space and space exploration, which is one of the worlds fastest growing industries. The asteroid research, directed by Professor Andrew Puckett, will contribute to planetary defense by helping refine orbital models of near-Earth objects. Students whose work leads to new asteroid orbit determinations will be recognized as co-authors in official scientific publications. Along with research funding, the grant covers a new telescope mount, upgraded camera systems, dome repairs, and software development to improve data collection. It will also support student internships during the school year and summer. The observatorys future capabilities will extend beyond the two main projects, with plans for satellite tracking, variable star monitoring, and even exoplanet detection, giving CSU students opportunities to participate in advanced space science for years to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The upgrades are expected to be complete by spring and will move with the telescope when the Coca-Cola Space Science Center relocates to Columbus States main campus in the coming years. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) A local comedian is celebrating the first anniversary of filming a stand-up special for Amazon Prime. Scott Kelley, who filmed Word Of Mouth in Altoona on Sept. 13, 2024, is headed back to ArtsAltoona for a new showcase with all new material and a whole lot of friends. I have all new material that I have been working on since October last year, Kelley told WTAJ. The event is set to take place Saturday, Sept. 13, at ArtsAltoona, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelley wont be alone. Joining him will be Central PA-born and raised Danielle Kaufman, the host of the Dammit Dani Podcast and co-host of the Poor Mans Podcast. Speaking of, the creator of the Poor Mans Podcast, Chris Hopper, will also be featured on stage. The night will also see comedian Alyssa Maurer hit the stage along with Central Pennsylvania natives Scott Reed and Adam Holt. Kelley said he has more than just comedian friends coming, adding that the Altoona Curves Al Tuna will be a special guest at the show for the evening. For more information or to buy tickets, you can click here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com. ANDOVER The School Committee will flesh out possible intermediate solutions for improving the high school in the interim while waiting to build a new one. The School Committee weighed in on a $50 million proposed plan to add a new science wing and other renovations as part of the interim improvement project to Andover High School at its meeting last Tuesday. The preferred improvement scenario was developed by the Permanent Town Building Advisory Committee and then presented to the School Committee June 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last weeks meeting was the first time the committee had a chance to discuss the proposal. The project is now in the hands of the School Committee to provide feedback to the working group for a conceptual design. The committee decided to hold a future workshop on the topic to decide on whether to have the project team use remaining funds allotted for its design to better refine what it entails and what it will look like. The interim project was approved during a Special Town Meeting in November 2023 when voters appropriated $500,000 for the design of what a scaled-down project would look like after killing a $450 million school construction plan. The project aims to make short-term improvements to tackle issues such as undersized classrooms and overcrowding by possibly adding a new wing and expanding the cafeteria. The project also looks to improve security, parking and replace the schools HVAC system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In fiscal year 2025, the high school was at 106% capacity utilization with 1,609 students enrolled against a functional capacity of 1,515 students. The plan would bridge a 15-year gap as the town works toward state funding to help in building a new high school. Committee member Jake Tamarkin was in favor of allowing the project team to move forward with using about $150,000 left of the $500,000 allotted to the improvement projects design to present a more refined design and cost estimate. He said he felt there were two things that needed to be evaluated separately: work on the existing building to spruce it up and expanding the new science wing. Vice Chair Lauren Conoscenti said she continues to be disappointed in the effort which hasnt presented a clear understanding of what the project will and wont achieve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conoscenti said, since in 2023, the community expressed their support for a new high school building, but only with state help from the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA). She added she was worried about advancing a $50 million project and then applying with the MSBA to build a new school. Conoscenti suggested seeking a more intermediate option which would fall in-between doing nothing to the high school and the $50 million proposal. This may involve investing in the HVAC system or more furniture to make the students and staff more comfortable instead of adding a new science wing, she said. Committee member Lauren Diffenbach agreed she would hate to see taxpayers money used on a science wing if asking for a new high school in the future. Chair Shauna Murray said this may be a good time for more public input to see if a full science wing wasnt pursued, than what could be satisfying intermediate options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It takes about 10 years for a new high school to be built after the MSBA approves a project. Realistically, Assistant Superintendent Keith Taverna said the town wouldnt apply with the MSBA before 2026 or 2027. Tamarkin added allowing the project team to continue working on the design will give the committee a better vision of the project, as he said there isnt a better improvement plan for the high school right now. Its the only option on the table to deliver value to students until 2040, Tamarkin said. HAWKINS COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) The former treasurer of the Lake View Fire Department (LVFD) in Hawkins County was indicted after she allegedly deposited at least $26,000 of department funds into her personal bank account. According to Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury Jason Mumpower, his office indicted Peggy Long on one count of theft of property $10,000 or more but less than $60,000. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Crime Watch Longs indictment comes after an investigation that began when LVFD officers reported suspicious financial activity, a release from the comptroller states. The investigation found Long had written seven unauthorized checks to herself between the months of January and March 2025. Those checks reportedly totaled at least $26,000. Long allegedly deposited the check into her own personal bank account and used vague or misleading memo lines. The release states that Long told investigators the checks were for her own personal use, not LVFD expenses. Long was removed as treasurer on June 16. According to the comptrollers office, she deposited a check for $26,000 from her personal funds to the fire departments account on July 28 to reimburse the LVFD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hawkins County Grand Jury indicted Long on Monday. Volunteer fire departments play a vital role in protecting communities, and they must maintain sound financial oversight, Mumpower stated in the release. These organizations are often trusted with public and donated funds, and their officers must ensure those funds are safeguarded by requiring dual signatures on checks and properly segregating financial duties. The complete investigation can be read 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. While walking along a trail in Australia, a passerby observed a creek flowing in an abnormal shade of bright blue. They snapped photos of the disturbing scene and shared them on r/melbourne to raise public awareness about the water pollution. Photo Credit: Reddit Photo Credit: Reddit The trail user explained that the bright blue polluted water was in the Banyule drain next to a shared trail. Authorities sandbagged the creek in a few places downstream to address the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The OP added a note to the post: "From what I saw, Yarra Valley Water and the North East Link Project staff are aware of this and have already taken actions to contain this." The unexpected color of the creek's water is an unfortunate example of the prevalence of pollution in our waterways today. Worldwide, residents and tourists have been taking photos and videos to document and share concerning problems in local creeks, rivers, and lakes. Human activity has resulted in a significant amount of waterway pollution due to plastic litter, used tires, illegal dumping, and even car exhaust. Introducing harmful substances and pollutants into creeks damages aquatic ecosystems and limits public recreation activities. It can also contribute to the accumulation of toxins and microplastics, putting the health of humans and wildlife at risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By alerting environmental authorities and the relevant management agencies about water pollution sightings, you can contribute to cleaner water sources and a more sustainable planet. Fortunately, waterway restoration projects can transform polluted waters and restore local ecosystems. Taking local action where you live may involve learning about the critical threats to waterways in your area and volunteering your time for cleanup projects. In Melbourne, Reddit users encouraged this type of pollution reporting and explained where to report future issues. 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. "If you want to report anything like this, there's a great aust app called 'Snap Send Solve' to report rubbish, faulty traffic signals, any kind of infringement," a Reddit user shared. "They will direct the issue to the right council, report the ongoing issue, and get back to you straight away. It's amazing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Someone saw an EPA statement about the incident and wrote, "Apparently the source has been traced to a dust suppressant substance used on the North East Link Project." "Awful to see such a vibrant colour," a Redditor commented. 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. Attorneys will argue in court Friday about whether Alina Habba's continued tenure as acting U.S. attorney in New Jersey is unconstitutional. (Photo by Gage Skidmore) A bipartisan group of Congress members has waded into the fight over whether Alina Habba should keep her job as New Jerseys U.S. attorney, arguing that the Trump administrations machinations to keep her in office violate a federal law meant to reinforce the separation of powers required by the Constitution. The brief filed Wednesday by Democrat Rep. Frank Pallone of New Jersey, four other House Democrats, and a former Republican congressman comes one day before a federal judge in Pennsylvania will hear arguments in a criminal defendants challenge of Habbas authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers are expected to square off Friday in Williamsport before U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann over Irvington man Julien Giraud Jr.s effort to disqualify Habba. Federal judges tried to end Habbas turbulent tenure last month by appointing her top deputy as her successor, but the Trump administration fired that replacement and reinstalled Habba, setting the stage for Fridays showdown in Pennsylvania. Rep. Frank Pallone is among the members of Congress urging a federal judge to reject the Trump administrations attempt to keep Alina Habba as New Jerseys U.S. attorney. (Edwin J. Torres/NJ Governors Office) In Wednesdays brief, the Congress members said they aimed to inform Brann of Congresss intent and authority in creating the statutory framework that governs the appointment of U.S. attorneys. Besides Pallone, the other politicians on the brief are Reps. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), Stephen Lynch (D-Massachusetts), Bennie Thompson (D-Mississippi), and Nydia Velazquez (D-New York), plus former Rep. Wayne Gilchrest, a Republican who represented Maryland for nine terms until 2009. The six voted in favor of the Preserving United States Attorney Independence Act, a 2007 law that gives the Senate 120 days to approve a U.S. attorney appointed by the president or attorney general and allows federal judges to appoint someone if the clock runs out with no Senate action. The law was meant to codify the checks and balances between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches that the Constitutions appointments clause requires, the Congress members noted in the brief. They urged Brann not to ratify the Administrations attempt to sidestep the Appointments Clause with respect to Ms. Habba. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Splitting the responsibility for appointments between the executive and legislative branches acts as a check on favoritism, prevents unfit people from being appointed, and ensures one branch doesnt wield more power than another, they wrote. They quoted James Madison the fourth U.S. president and an author of the Federalist Papers to make their point. The founders believed that the accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny, the brief reads. The brief was just the latest in a flurry of filings since the tug-of-war over the U.S. attorney position began earlier this summer. Brann, an Obama nominee, two weeks ago rejected Girauds motion to dismiss his case, even as he agreed to hear his arguments that Habba has no authority to prosecute him because her appointment was unconstitutional. Giraud was indicted in November 2024 for various drug and firearm offenses. A second man, Cesar Pina of Franklin Lakes, who is facing federal money laundering and bribery charges, is also challenging Habbas appointment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Justice Department argued in a brief this week that Habbas appointment is valid because her post was indisputably vacant, referring to the Trump administrations hasty maneuvering to oust Desiree Leigh Grace the first assistant U.S. attorney the judges picked and restore Habba. That maneuvering relied on widely disputed math. President Donald Trump named Habba, his former personal attorney, to the job on March 24, but she wasnt sworn in until March 28. That led to disagreement over when her 120 days in office were up. The timing matters, because the judges named Grace to the post on July 22 120 days after March 24. But the Trump administration insists Habbas 120 days werent up until July 26, and during those extra four days, administration officials fired Grace, Habba resigned, and Attorney General Pamela Bondi named Habba first assistant U.S. attorney. Under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, the first assistant can serve as acting U.S. attorney for 210 days. That maneuvering essentially restarted the clock for Habbas time in the job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Administration officials have denied critics complaints that such maneuvering was an unconstitutional workaround. Habba has drawn widespread criticism during her stint in the job, most rooted in her prosecutions of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver, both Democrats whose arrests stemmed from their May visit to an immigrant jail in Newark. Her office has reportedly subpoenaed Gov. Phil Murphy, also a Democrat, over comments he made in February that suggested he might hide an undocumented immigrant in his home. New Jerseys senators, Cory Booker and Andy Kim, both Democrats, had objected to Habba taking the job permanently, accusing her of using the office to pursue frivolous and politically motivated prosecutions. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SNOW HILL, N.C. (WNCT) United States Congressman Don Davis returned to his hometown to speak with city officials to discuss the challenges facing the Snow Hill Police Department. A closed door meeting was held between Congressman Davis, the chief of police, the mayor, and the town manager. Despite the police department being in jeopardy just three months ago, Davis says he feels optimistic moving forward. Were still looking, exploring federal options to not only help the town of Snow Hill, but communities across the east, Davis said. 22 counties, all rural. Theres a lot of challenges before us. Davis says the search for solutions are worth it, as the department continues to provide protection for the citizens of Snow Hill around the clock. For more information, click on the video above. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. WARRENTON, Ga. (WJBF) Congressman Rick Allen visited M.E. Freeman Elementary School, which was recognized as a Georgia State Literacy Leader, to celebrate the achievement and read to students on Wednesday, Aug 13. Back in April of this year, State Superintendent Richard Woods honored the elementary school. Congressman Rick Allen presented the school with a framed copy of his congratulatory letter and read to a class. Well, literacy is your ticket to a great education. I mean, it is absolutely what is required, Rep. Allen R) said. For example, if youre not reading at the third grade, reading level, when you finish the third grade, statistics say youre probably not going to graduate from high school. You know, my buttons, my buttons, my two groovy buttons, my buttons, my buttons, my two groovy buttons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre always interesting because we we make it a contest. We make it a competition. Well, its important to read we make it fun, said Jessica Nicholson, principal of M.E. Freeman Elementary. So theyre always excited to read. ALSO ON WJBF: Richmond County schools named Literacy Leaders by Georgia DOE The Georgia Department of Education started the annual award in 2023 to highlight schools across the state with outstanding achievement or growth in reading. Photojournalist credit: Regynal McKie Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. The video above aired the day after the Aug. 18 flood. SOUTHBURY, Conn. (WTNH) Just days before the one year anniversary of a major flood that caused damage and death across Naugatuck Valley, Connecticut Water officials say theyve finished the last major repair. On Thursday, the group said they recently brought a 12-inch water main on Old Field Road in Southbury back into service. Portions of the road had been washed away during the storm, requiring the town to restore the roadway itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LAST YEAR: Southbury operating under state of emergency due to flooding Connecticut Water officials said while the system there continued to provide drinking water service to customers in the area, the main contributed to fire protection. Officials said it was the last major repair related to the 1,000-year rainstorm that hit on Aug. 18 last year. Connecticut Water recently repaired a 12-inch water main on Old Field Road in Southbury that was damaged in the Aug. 18, 2024 storm. Work continues to repairs the damaged road. A portion of Old Field Road in Southbury washed away during the Aug. 18, 2024 storm. A Connecticut Water booster station seen in August 2025 with repairs in place in Southbury. The slope eroded away durnig the Aug, 18, 2024 storm. Floodwaters exposed water lines near a Connecticut Water booster station in Southbury after the Aug, 18, 2024 storm. When faced with an unprecedented and extreme weather event, our team of water professionals demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the communities we serve, using their experience and expertise to keep water flowing, Connecticut Water president Craig Patla said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company also addressed water main and erosion issues related to the storm at Heritage Village in Southbury and Old Waterbury Road, and Strongtown Road, all in Southbury. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Theres trouble in the air in Massachusetts literally. In recent years, air pollution from Canadian wildfire smoke has begun to cause more bad air quality days each summer, according to Glenn Keith, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protections (MassDEP) director of air and climate programs. Every year, wildfires rage across Canadas large forests as the weather warms, and when weather conditions are right, the smoke from the fires drifts down to New England and pollutes our air, Keith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This has been happening more often in recent years largely as a result of climate change, experts said. Many fear the number of bad air quality days from Canadian wildfire smoke will only increase in years to come as societies are slow to take action to curb climate change. So far, Massachusetts is experiencing, on average, about a handful of bad air quality days each summer due to Canadian wildfire smoke, Keith said. Additionally, air pollution from ozone, a different pollutant, affects air quality in Massachusetts. But even moderate levels of this type of air pollution can cause health problems for children, the elderly and people with underlying respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, and no amount of exposure is safe for anyone, experts said. Even just one day of exposure can impact someone even without underlying conditions cause them to wheeze a little bit, their eyes to water, shortness of breath and things like that, Boston University climate and health researcher Jennifer Stowell said. So even one day can have an impact. Whats happening? While Canadian wildfires are expected each year, climate change has led to drier, hotter summers, experts said. As a result, the fires are bigger, hotter and produce more smoke, increasing the chances that the clouds of smoke drift down to Massachusetts and pollute our air. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Massachusetts used to experience, at most, one bad air quality day due to wildfire smoke a year, if any, Keith said. Since 2021, the state has had at least four such days each year, and this year, the state has already reached that benchmark. Wildfire smoke clouds contain a particularly insidious type of air pollution known as fine particulate matter, experts said. Air quality trackers, like those at MassDEP, monitor for particles that are 2.5 micrometers in diameter known as PM 2.5. Those are tiny enough to actually go deep inside your lungs and then eventually enter the bloodstream, Western New England pharmacology Professor Kyung Hong said. They can actually cause more of what we call whole body type of responses. MassDEPs Massachusetts air quality tracker shows that PM 2.5 air pollution has only reached levels high enough to be considered unhealthy for the general public on five days in the last five years. But during that time span, the state has seen dozens of days on which fine particle air pollution was at high enough levels to cause health problems for sensitive populations and people with underlying conditions. What are the short-term impacts? PM 2.5 exposure can cause a range of symptoms, according to Endicott College critical and acute care Professor Cindy Mitsakis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Respiratory problems such as coughing, a sore or scratchy throat, constricted airways and breathing issues are common, as are burning eyes. Those having breathing problems may also experience a headache, dizziness or fatigue from the lack of oxygen, she said. The longer and harder you breathe in PM 2.5-polluted air, the more likely you are to develop health issues, experts said. Most at risk are children who breathe more often than adults, sensitive populations such as the elderly and immunocompromised, and people with underlying heart or lung conditions. Their bodys going to be very taxed by this. Anybody with baggage, for lack of better words, she said. Can wildfire smoke cause lung disease? More research is required to determine what kind of health issues could result from long-term exposure to wildfire smoke, but its safe to assume that the impact on the body is similar to that of smoking, experts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most studies on the short- and long-term health impacts of PM 2.5 exposure have been focused on particles from vehicle and industrial emissions, experts said. Researchers have often found a link between exposure to high levels if this type of fine particle and increased rates of heart disease, lung disease and cancer, as well as temporary increases in hospitalizations due to respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Mitsakis and Hong both suggested that long-term wildfire smoke exposure may also play a role in causing health problems involving the kidneys and brain. Stowell similarly spoke to a need to study its impact on mental health. Your body is one big circuit, and it works together, Mitsakis said. So if your kidneys arent working, it affects your heart, it affects your breathing. Same thing if your lungs dont work it makes everything work harder." Will we ever know? Right now, research into the long-term impacts of wildfire smoke exposure is in peril, UMass Lowell environmental health Professor Joel Tickner said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration is in the process of pulling back money for the National Institutes of Health and shutting down the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) Office of Research and Development. These are the federal organizations that would typically conduct research on air pollution, Tickner said. Additionally, the Trump administration is working to downsize federal agencies that monitor pollution, such as the EPA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). With fewer staff, these agencies may share data less frequently or produce lower quality information, Tickner said. Are we gonna put our heads in the sand and pretend that theres not a problem? he said. What can people do to protect themselves? Regardless of what specific health conditions wildfire smoke exposure might ultimately be linked to, experts agree that any exposure to elevated levels of PM 2.5 from wildfire smoke is bad for your health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The level of danger is real, and you want to prevent exposure if you can, Tickner said. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to simply stay indoors with doors and windows closed and sealed even if that means missing, postponing or canceling an outdoor event, experts said. Those with window air conditioners should note that they often dont filter out fine particles, but many air purifiers on the market specify that they remove PM 2.5. If you must go outside, avoid doing activities that lead to heavy breathing such as exercise, experts said. It can also help to wear a mask capable of filtering out fine particles, such as an N95. The U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) rates air quality with a number, with lower numbers meaning less air pollution and higher numbers indicating more. At-risk groups may begin to be affected at 50 AQI or greater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 100, even if youre not sensitive, I still wouldnt go do heavy exercise, Tickner said. Once you get over 200, you just shouldnt be outside. How do we fix the problem? Ultimately, the best way to address air pollution from wildfire smoke is to curb the impact of climate change, Stowell said. But in the meantime, state and local governments can take action to protect their citizens. Right now, MassDEP is focused on sending out air quality alerts so that people know when to take action to protect themselves, Keith said. Stowell recommended that local governments try to amplify the reach of these alerts, share information about how to protect yourself from air pollution and ensure this information is easily accessible and in multiple languages. State and local officials could also find ways to decrease local sources of PM 2.5, such as vehicle and industrial emissions, and utilize forest management best practices to prevent local wildfires, Tickner said. Together, these actions would bring down the overall number of fine particles in the air so that Canadian wildfire smoke is less likely to bring concentrations to dangerous levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Leaders in the public and private sectors should also consider how they might prevent employees from having to work outside during bad air quality days, Stowell said. I think its really about being prepared, having good communication channels and educating the medical community on what to do and how to advise patients, Tickner said. More weather Read the original article on MassLive. (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. Just imagine yourself being told, session after session, that if you remained as you were, you would be rejected, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Kentuckys Republican-controlled legislature passed the bill, then overrode the governors veto in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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 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. (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. Mykola Fedorian, convicted of state treason, has been released from his sentence following a decision to transfer him as part of a prisoner-of-war exchange. The Shevchenkivskyi District Court of Kyiv has issued the ruling at the request of the Prosecutors Office. Source: Sudovyi Reporter (Court Reporter), citing the court ruling dated 11 August Details: Fedorian was sentenced to 12 years in prison with confiscation of all property for state treason by a verdict of the Holosiivskyi District Court of Kyiv in October 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fedorian applied for an exchange while simultaneously appealing his verdict. In June 2025, the Supreme Court ordered a new hearing of his appeal, but he later withdrew it. On 5 August 2025, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War decided to transfer convicted Fedorian to Russia for exchange as a prisoner of war. Fedorian worked in the internal affairs bodies for about 30 years, retiring in late 2011 from the position of deputy head of the Main Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. From 2012, he worked in the transport department of the state company Chornomornaftogaz. After the occupation, he remained in Crimea, obtained a Russian passport, and continued working at the Russian State Joint-Stock Enterprise of the Republic of Crimea Chernomorneftegaz, which the Russians built upon the foundations of the seized Ukrainian company. Once a year, he travelled to mainland Ukraine to visit his elderly parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November 2020, he was detained at the Kalanchak checkpoint, where data on cooperation with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) was found on his mobile phone. Fedorian was accused of providing Chernomorneftegaz vehicles to Russian FSB officers and other illegal Russian law enforcement bodies at least 12 times for carrying out so-called investigative actions and transporting illegally detained Ukrainian citizens to places of imprisonment under the pretext of combating the Hizb ut-Tahrir organisation. In court, Fedorian did not plead guilty. He claimed that in regards to Chernomorneftegaz, his duties involved document management and equipment procurement, while vehicle allocation was handled by another department. The drivers were allegedly not under his supervision, and he had no contact with them or involvement in searches of Crimean Tatars homes. However, his mobile phone contained correspondence with Russian FSB officers, particularly discussions about providing vehicles for FSB operational activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, Fedorian had a habit of recording telephone conversations. Audio files on his phone indicated that in Crimea, he maintained stable contacts with representatives of the Russian border service, the Ministry of Defence, and the customs service, including resolving entry and exit issues for the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine. In these conversations, Fedorian used clearly derogatory terms referring to representatives of Ukrainian state bodies controlling the checkpoints between the Crimean peninsula and Ukraine-controlled territory as "khokhly" [a pejorative term for Ukrainians ed.]. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Convicted murderer Bryan Kohberger has been in his new cell at Idahos only maximum security prison for less than two weeks, and hes struggling to settle in. Kohberger, 30, has allegedly faced nearly endless torment from his fellow inmates, retired homicide detective Chris McDonough told the Daily Mail in a story published Tuesday, August 12. 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, McDonough claimed. They are literally getting up into the grate and yelling at him. The inmates are taking it in turns doing it. Its relentless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kohberger was arrested on December 30, 2022, in connection to the stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin. Kohberger was accused of breaking into the home located at 1122 King Road in Moscow, Idaho, and killing all four students six weeks earlier. Where Is Bryan Kohberger Going to Prison After Receiving 4 Life Sentences for Idaho College Murders? After initially pleading not guilty, Kohberger changed his plea to guilty in order to avoid the death penalty. He was sentenced to four consecutive life sentences and another 10 years for burglary in July 2025. Hes extremely annoyed and frustrated, McDonough continued of Kohbergers alleged treatment while incarcerated. Hes complaining to the authorities that he can't sleep because of them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former Washington State University doctoral student, Kohberger now lives in solitary confinement in the J block at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution. Due to the grisly nature of the murders and the media frenzy that followed the case in its immediate aftermath, McDonough added that fellow inmates could be looking for the opportunity to harm Kohberger. There's some inmates that would want nothing more than to hurt him just to make a name for themselves, he said, adding that because Kohberger is in solitary and not in immediate physical danger, it is unlikely that prison staff will do anything to stop his alleged tormentors. Details About Idaho College Murders Emerge as Gag Order Lifts: What Bryan Kohberger Did Now known as inmate 163214, Kohberger is confined to his cell for 23 hours a day and allowed outside in what prisoners call the cage for the remaining hour. He is allowed one shower every other day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A judge handed down his sentence at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise on July 23 with some of the victims family members in attendance. Kernodles aunt, Kim, told Kohberger in a statement that she had forgiven him because she could no longer live with that hate." "Any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, she added, I'm here, no judgment." Goncalves mom Kristi gave a statement as well, telling Kohberger that hell will be waiting for him after sentencing. You are officially the property of the state of Idaho, where your fellow inmates are anxiously awaiting your arrival, she said. The former leader of Cook Countys Public Health Department, who was quietly terminated late last year, has reached a settlement with the county. After more than two years on the job, Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck was fired in January after failing to renew his medical license, according to his personnel file received as part of a Tribune open records request. Hasbrouck, who said he was fully transparent about his licensure status, said the matter has been amicably resolved without filing a formal court claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Hasbrouck was hired in spring 2022, the chief operating officer post was empty for nearly two years the bulk of the pandemic before Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle announced Hasbroucks hiring. Preckwinkle had let go of the previous public health chief, Dr. Terry Mason, to the surprise of other county officials, as COVID-19 was just beginning to surge in spring 2020. The department enforces health regulations and monitors and responds to public health threats in the suburbs. Cook County Health set aside $100,000 to pay for a national search for Masons replacement, and ultimately landed on Hasbrouck. He was previously director of the states Public Health Department during Gov. Pat Quinns administration, executive director of the National Association of County & City Health Officials and an adviser at the American Medical Association. Hasbrouck joined the department in June 2022 with an annual salary of $325,000, according to his personnel file. At the time of his hiring, records show, Hasbrouck was required to have an active medical license with the state, and volunteered to take care of it shortly after his hiring. The minimum qualifications for the COO job included having a valid physicians license, or the ability to obtain it two weeks prior to starting. Hasbroucks May 2022 offer letter also included a clause saying he must provide proof of his position-specific credentials and documentation of his licensure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he never followed through, according to the Jan. 2, 2025, termination letter from Cook County Health CEO Dr. Erik Mikaitis, his direct supervisor. As a condition of employment, you were required to obtain your medical license in the State of Illinois at time of employment. You failed to do so, and therefore, we are terminating your employment with CCH immediately, the letter said. Cook County Health declined to comment about why the lapse became an issue years after he was hired. Preckwinkles office similarly declined comment. According to the states Department of Professional Regulation, Hasbrouck was first licensed locally in 2012 when he worked for Quinn but it lapsed in the summer of 2017. He was previously licensed in New York and Georgia, records show. Hasbrouck said in an email to the Tribune he led the department in all functions without restrictions or a valid medical license for 30 months, and noted he was approved by the state to serve as a public health administrator shortly after his appointment. According to his LinkedIn, Hasbrouck is now an adviser to Charta Health, an AI medical chart review company. In May, the county announced Hasbroucks replacement would be Dr. Kiran Joshi, who co-led the department after Masons departure. DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) On Wednesday, Alabama Governor Kay Ivey visited Decatur to welcome in the massive expansion of the Cook Museum of Natural Science. The governor and the state are giving the Cook Museum a $9.5 million grant that will go towards STEM programs in the expansion. Man arrested for years of recurring theft from Decatur business In May, the Alabama State Legislature tabbed the Cook Museum as a designated STEM center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even back then, it was clear that the museum was doing something more than just showcase the wonders of nature, Ivey said. But the museum directors saw a bigger picture. They saw an expansion that would include a prominent national brand 130-room hotel and a parking deck. Scott Mayo, the museum executive director, told News 19 that in addition to the state grant, the museum will put in $20 million in private funds and $23 million from the hotel developer. Giving that states support the county jumped in and the city jumped in and were just excited about our next chapter, Mayo said. Hopefully, about $20 million of private donations that is going to be for the build out of the labs and the classrooms and the museum itself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, the Decatur City Council voted 4 to 1 to approve a plan for the expansion. The city and the museum share the parking space. The city council, however, did not put a price on the new parking deck because there are no designs or a contract for it yet, but Mayo did estimate that it would cost the city between $14 to $17 million. Council member Billy Jackson voted against the proposed expansion, saying the agreement without an exact dollar figure attached would be bad for the city. Whats it going to cost us for a parking deck? In my mind, we are effectively writing a blank check, said Jackson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson sent a statement to News 19 on Thursday with more on why he voted against the expansion. When the request came before the council to build a cityfinanced parking deck to support the Cook Museums $20 million expansion and new hotel, I voted no. I could not support what amounted to a blank check without a clear budget or cost estimate for the parking deck, especially when our citys resources must be managed responsibly, Jackson said. There was no meaningful discussion or thorough research presented to the council, and the proposal was pushed in a last-minute effort to advance an agenda without full vetting and public input. Decatur citizen Mike Stovall voiced his concern about the lack of public input on the project. I think we have a lot more important things that we might need to take care of than just pushing this down the citizens throat, Stovall explained. I think they should have had a public meeting. We cant continue down this road, or were not going to have money as a city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several city council members and the Decatur Morgan County Chamber of Commerce said supporting the museums expansion goes hand in hand with the current growth of Decatur. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. The News The COP30 climate summit planned for November in Brazil could be the smallest COP in years, with logistical headaches and the Trump administrations withdrawal threatening to undermine the events credibility as a forum for meaningful climate diplomacy. In a public letter on Tuesday, COP30 President Andre Aranha Correa do Lago, the top climate and energy official in Brazils Ministry of Foreign Affairs, sought to tamp down fears that soaring hotel prices and limited flight options in Belem, the midsized Amazonian city hosting the event, will keep attendees away. His main goal, he wrote, is to put people at the center of COP30, and hosting it in the Amazon is about giving way to the vulnerable and to the peripheral as genuine leaders who take brave decisions every day. The question is who will be there to listen. The summit organizers said this week that they have no plans to relocate the event, even as numerous national delegations have urged them to consider an alternative. Already, some plan to slash their groups to the bare minimum, because of costs. Austrias president said last week that he doesnt expect to attend at all. Business groups are planning a separate event in Sao Paulo, and the meeting for heads of state that usually kicks off the event will be held the prior week in Rio de Janeiro instead. The Brazilian environmental group Observatorio do Clima warned this week that without a better solution for accommodating NGOs and delegations from low-income countries, COP30 could be the least inclusive in history. Tims view COP summits always face a tradeoff between practicality and accountability. Hosting every summit in a big European city would alleviate much of the pressure to re-invent the wheel every time with respect to hotels, transit, and other boring but essential logistical details. And its certainly true that after two grinding weeks of negotiations, little things like having a comfortable bed and decent meals and no rivers of raw sewage to navigate do make a difference. But the shifting locations are baked into the UN climate treaty for a reason; its a reminder of the global nature of the climate crisis, and forces government delegates to remain accountable to a diverse chorus of actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, at COP30, the choice of location risks undermining the events mandate. Every hour delegates spend negotiating the details of their access is time wasted making progress on the key substantive issues, which this year include pushing countries to ramp up their carbon reduction plans and raise more money for climate action in vulnerable low-income countries. Even if Brazil makes some provisions on hotel pricing to accommodate the most marginalized groups, its already clear that logistical difficulties are causing the summit to splinter into competing, isolated events. The presence of businesses, sub-national government leaders, and other adjacent participants has shown over time to be a critical source of pressure on the core negotiators, said Maria Mendiluce, CEO of the We Mean Business Coalition, which organizes climate advocacy on behalf of the private sector. But this year, she said, many of those will either not attend or will choose to focus on side events in different cities. Know More The US will have a greatly diminished presence at this years summit regardless of location; the Trump administration finished firing all US climate negotiators last month and will complete its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in January. That leaves an opening for other delegations to seize control of the conversation, said David Waskow, director of the World Resources Institutes International Climate Initiative. China and the EU, in particular, have been vocal about their interest in keeping up momentum on global climate diplomacy. Other countries are ready to plow forward, Waskow said. They arent being held back in pursuing climate action just because of whats happening with the US. Room for Disagreement The most extreme logistical hurdles for Belem seem already to have been overcome. The government last week launched a hotel booking site that has plenty of normal-looking options available in the range of $200-400 per night (as well as some options that still reach into the tens of thousands of dollars for a two-week stay). Andre Guimaraes, executive director of the environmental group IPAM Amazonia, said he hasnt had any problems finding reasonable Airbnbs and rental apartments for friends and colleagues planning their trips. The housing crunch will work out in the end, said: This is a non-issue. I think the energy of Brazilian hospitality will result in a very comfortable environment for people who come to visit. Notable GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) Core Technology Molding Corporation in Greensboro hosted a camp for local students to learn more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, better known as STEM. The program is called Molding Kids for Success, and its a free camp that combines classroom experiences with hands-on learning. A lot of these students, their parents could not afford to send them to a STEM camp for a week. So theres no expenses for the families, for the students to attend. So it really is us giving back, paying it forward, for the community, for these young people. Our engineers, toolmakers, theyre giving up their time. They could be working on other things, but they really are passionate about teaching the youth and helping mold the next generation, CEO and President of Core Technology Molding Corporation Geoff Foster said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Core Technology creates plastic molds for companies such as HondaJet and Toyota. On Wednesday, 20 campers followed Core Technology employees right onto the manufacturing floor, where they saw STEM in action. I think its cool how theyre able to program the robot. So like precise that it can make something exactly as you need it, said Jamian Carrion, a seventh grader and camper. Machines were programmed to engrave camper names on a piece of aluminum, giving them a little souvenir to take home. The company is hopeful that they are inspiring the next generation of STEM workers. STEM is very impactful, not just from a financial standpoint These are careers versus jobs. When they have a STEM career, they are a higher paying job with much more opportunities for growth. And I think thats the important piece that were trying to plant that you have to have opportunities, but you need exposure,Foster said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Organizers say it only takes one spark to create a lifelong interest in the sciences. I know whatever I want to be in the future, STEM will probably be a good, a good part about what it will be. So I was looking forward to it, said Jadalyn Carrion, a freshman in high school and a camper. This was Core Technologys last Molding Kids for Success camp this summer. They will offer tours for students in October for Manufacturing 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 FOX8 WGHP. A parolee-at-large was located and arrested in Corning on Aug. 8 by the Corning Police Department. Joel Jauregui Guillen Jr., 37, of Corning who was wanted on a felony warrant out of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for violation of parole, was contacted by Corning police patrolling the area of Link Street around 6:30 p.m. Guillen was arrested on the warrant and booked into the Tehama County Jail without bail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DUI, drug arrest During a traffic stop on Everett Freeman Way south of Corning on Aug. 9, a Corning police officer arrested the driver of a Honda sedan who reportedly admitted to smoking marijuana right before being stopped by the officer. The driver, Danny Long Mey, 35, of Stockton failed a series of field sobriety tests, reported the CPD. He was placed under arrest and during a resulting search of the Honda, police said they discovered cannabis and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Mey was booked into the Tehama County Jail on suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance. Corrections Secretary Lindsay Wallace answers a question during a legislative hearing at the Rogers Convention Center on Aug. 13, 2025. She was joined by (from left) Arkansas Board of Corrections members Grant Hodges and Lee Watson, Division of Correction Director Dexter Payne, Wendy Ware, senior vice president of Research, Analysis, and Forecasting for CGL Companies, and board chairman Benny Magness. (Antoinette Grajeda/Arkansas Advocate) More prison beds will be needed as a result of recent legislation, further exacerbating current overcrowding issues in state and county facilities, according to a forecast presented to Arkansas lawmakers Wednesday. Wendy Ware, senior vice president of Research, Analysis, and Forecasting for CGL Companies, told a joint meeting of the City, County and Local Affairs Committee the states inmate population is projected to grow by an average rate of 2% annually over the next 10 years. Arkansas inmate population would increase from about 20,000 today to around 25,000 in 2035, according to the CGL analysis. CGL is a criminal justice facilities management, construction and consulting firm based in Miami, Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state will need an additional 1,500 to 2,000 through 2040 once the Protect Arkansas Act is fully implemented, Ware said. Among other things, the 2023 law removes the possibility of parole for the states most serious offenders. Ware discussed CGLs study during a legislative meeting at the Rogers Convention Center, which was the site of the Arkansas Association of Counties annual conference. Sebastian County Sheriff Hobe Runion said county jails have had no choice in holding inmates when theres no room in state prisons. Since 2016, county jails have added more that 3,000 beds across the state, partly to accommodate an overflow of state inmates, according to Runion. Yet, theyre still bursting at the seams with a backlog of around 1,900. While hes not sure of the answer, Runion asked lawmakers to help create more bedspace. The wheels, they havent come off yet of our criminal justice system, but they are wobbling really hard, he said. Ive been doing this for 35 years, and it scares me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. David Ray, R-Maumelle, noted that many of the county jails that have added space on their own have done so by asking voters to approve new taxes. So I think as legislators, we just need to keep in mind that when we continue to kick the can down the road and dont figure out ways to solve problems, that what were doing ends up raising taxes on a lot of our citizens, Ray said. Many state officials have supported increasing prison capacity, but have disagreed on how to achieve that goal. The biggest source of controversy has been the proposed construction of a 3,000-bed prison in Franklin County. Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has said the prison is needed to address overcrowding in county jails. Local residents and lawmakers decried the states lack of transparency in selecting an 815-acre site near Charleston and have pushed back against the project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Bryan King, a Green Forest Republican and outspoken critic of the Franklin County prison, again raised concerns about the projects costs Wednesday. The preliminary cost estimate of the prison is $825 million, according to the projects construction management company, California-based Vanir. King specifically discussed concerns about an increase in cost due to a lack of infrastructure for providing enough water to the site. We cannot continue to afford what were doing and what were spending, he said. The Legislature previously set aside $330 million for the proposed penitentiary, plus another $75 million. Arkansas lawmakers rejected a bill that would have appropriated an additional $750 million for the project during the 2025 legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Corrections Secretary Lindsay Wallace told lawmakers Wednesday more than 1,400 beds have been brought online since Sanders took office in 2023, and officials are exploring more options. A womens health unit with 50 beds is scheduled to open next month, Wallace said. The Board of Corrections also approved an expansion of the Mississippi County work release facility, which will net 100 additional beds, she said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SAN JOSE (Reuters) -Costa Rica will begin construction this year on a new maximum-security prison inspired by the El Salvador mega-prison at the center of that country's crackdown on crime, Costa Rica's Justice Minister Gerald Campos said on Wednesday. Costa Rica, long considered to be the safest nation in Central America, is grappling with a wave of homicides that have been attributed to drug gang violence. In 2023, it registered its highest-ever homicide rate, and opinion polls rank insecurity as the public's top concern, positioning the issue as a central theme for national elections coming in 2026. The Salvadoran government is providing technical assistance for the project, Campos said. The new prison is necessary because current facilities are nearly 30% overpopulated, creating conditions that allow incarcerated leaders to continue running criminal enterprises, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If we don't do this, the system is going to collapse, and we risk internal conflicts, hostage taking, and riots," Campos told a congressional committee. The new facility, named the Center for High Containment of Organized Crime (CACCO), has been designed to hold 5,100 inmates, increasing Costa Rica's prison capacity by 40%. The government has budgeted the project at $35 million, with Campos saying El Salvador collaborated on blueprints and security technology. Specific details of the project have been declared confidential. The model for the new prison, El Salvador's 40,000-inmate Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), is the centerpiece of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele's war on gangs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Bukele's crackdown is credited with a sharp drop in El Salvador's murder rate, human rights organizations report abuses within CECOT, describing inhumane conditions and deaths within the prison. El Salvador's government denies those allegations. (Reporting by Alvaro Murillo; Additional reporting by Nelson Renteria in San Salvador; Writing by Brendan O'Boyle; Editing by Tom Hogue) Costco will not sell the abortion pill mifepristone at its pharmacy locations, the shopping club told CBS News. The wholesaler said its decision not to sell the prescription medication was based on a "lack of demand from our members and other patients." "They generally have the drug dispensed by their medical providers," Costco said in a statement to CBS News. Costco's position on the abortion pill, which was first reported by Bloomberg, was praised by a conservative religious coalition, called the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), an anti-abortion advocacy group that had urged Costco not to sell mifepristone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We applaud Costco for doing the right thing by its shareholders and resisting activist calls to sell abortion drugs," ADF's legal counsel Michael Ross said in a statement Thursday. "Retailers like Costco keep their doors open by selling a lifetime of purchases to families, both large and small. They have nothing to gain and much to lose by becoming abortion dispensaries." Mifepristone, first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2000, is part of a two-step regimen with misoprostol used to end a pregnancy through 10 weeks. It is used in over half of all abortions in the U.S., according to research from the Guttmacher Institute. Examining the meteorite that landed in a Georgia house up close Exploring Hollywood Forever Cemetery's new 5-story mausoleum Air Canada flight attendants' strike grounds hundreds of planes Cottage Grove man gets 8 years in prison for sexually abusing child neighbor originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A Cottage Grove man has been sentenced to eight years prison for sexually abusing a young girl. Martin Michael Zappa, 66, was sentenced earlier this month after pleading guilty to 1st-degree criminal sexual conduct, according to the Washington County Attorneys Office. A criminal complaint details the abuse took place between the years of 1989 to 1992, starting when the victim was six-years-old. She reported the abuse to the Cottage Grove Police Department in 2021. Mugshot of Martin Michael ZappaMinnesota Department of Corrections Zappa was the victims neighbor and groomed her extensively before sexually abusing her. He was approximately 40-years-old at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case reminds us that victims of criminal sexual conduct sometimes take time to fully understand and process the trauma they have endured. We know how difficult it is for victims to come forward and relive these horrible events, County Attorney Kevin Magnuson said in a statement. In addition to his prison sentence, Zappa must register as a predatory offender for the rest of his life. In 1999, online court records show Zappa was convicted on 4th-degree criminal sexual conduct charges for abusing another victim. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. A Cottage Grove man will serve more than eight years in prison for sexually abusing a 7-year-old neighbor girl more than 25 years ago, Washington County officials said Wednesday. Martin Zappa, 66, pleaded guilty to first-degree criminal sexual conduct in March just as a jury trial against him was about to begin. On Aug. 1, Washington County District Court Judge Helen Brosnahan denied Zappas request for a lesser sentence and gave him 98 months in prison, a presumptive sentence under the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines at the time of the crime. The victim, who was 7 to 9 years old when she was abused by Zappa between 1999 and 2001, reported it in December 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of the impact of associated trauma, it can often take years for victims to come forward, particularly when the victim is a child, and the abuser is a relative or friend of the family, Washington County Attorney Kevin Magnuson said in a statement. Here, the victim reported that Zappa, who was then her neighbor, invited her into his home, where he groomed her extensively before sexually abusing her for over three years. The sexual assaults occurred at Zappas house, but became less frequent once the victim turned 9 years old, according to the complaint filed against Zappa in Washington County District Court. During the time of the assaults, the girl told friends what was happening. Cottage Grove police interviewed those friends, and they recounted what the girl had told them at that time, the complaint states. A different victim told police that she also was sexually assaulted by Zappa during the same time period; Zappa was convicted of fourth-degree criminal-sexual conduct in that case, the complaint states. Related Articles Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This case reminds us that victims of criminal-sexual conduct sometimes take time to fully understand and process the trauma they have endured, Magnuson said. We know how difficult it is for victims to come forward and relive these horrible events. We are grateful for the victims courage in testifying. In addition to serving a 98-month prison sentence, Zappa must register as a predatory offender for the rest of his life. Restitution was reserved for 90 days. A person who committed the same crime today would face more prison time than Zappa received, but courts are required to use the version of the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines in effect at the time of the crime, Magnuson said. Zappas sentence is a presumptive sentence based on the sentencing guidelines in effect at the time of the crime, he said. NEVADA, Mo. A tradition continues at Cottey College in Nevada. More than 120 donors and alumni are getting the college experience again for this weeks Vacation College. Some are relatively recent graduates, others who are much older than that. Each day, theyre waking up early and attending fun classes taught by other alums and participants. There are music classes, as well as ones involving ceramics and arts, pickleball and archery, and cinema. Its a chance for them to also get a peek at some of the things to which they may want to contribute. Randi Turk is a 1968 grad, also the president of the colleges alumnae association, and an art instructor this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We loved living in the dorm because unlike college, you can have the wine glass out in the open where you couldnt when you were, you know, where you were when you were actually attending here. So lots of fun, friendship, fellowship. We hug each other when we see. And then, of course, when its time to go, everybody says goodbye, said Randi Turk, Class of 68 and Vacation College Art Instructor. The groups last day on campus is Friday. Classes at Cottey begin on August 26. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. A Labour councillor who called for far-right protesters' throats to be cut acted "completely out of character" and was in the wrong, a court has heard. Ricky Jones, 58, is on trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court after calling demonstrators "disgusting Nazi fascists" during an anti-racism rally in Walthamstow on 7 August last year. The Dartford councillor told police his remarks, captured on video as he addressed "tens of thousands" of people, were "ill-advised". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Jones, who was then a full-time official for the Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA) union, told jurors his comments were not intended to be "taken literally by anyone". He denies encouraging violent behaviour. Mr Jones' friend Kevin Courtney, a retired teacher, told jurors on Thursday that he was "surprised" by his comments. He said: "I had not heard him say those words or anything in any way similar to that... "I think they [the comments] are wrong. I was surprised that Ricky said them - I think it is completely out of character." The court heard Mr Courtney, a former joint general secretary of the National Education Union (NEU), had previously attended rallies with the councillor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked by defence barrister Hossein Zahir KC, whether Mr Jones had ever encouraged any form of violence, Mr Courtney said: "No, it was a complete shock when I saw that video... "The mood was peaceful - Ricky's words just didn't gel with that at all." Mr Jones told jurors on Tuesday that his comments were not directed towards those at the rally. He said he was referring "specifically" to an incident where a 'National Front Rights for Whites' sticker had been found on a train with a hidden razor blade behind it. The councillor told jurors on Wednesday that he felt "very emotional and very upset" after receiving pictures of the stickers the day before the rally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that the crowd in Walthamstow "clearly knew" his comments were made in relation to "what happened on the train". Mr Jones went against advice not to attend the rally held in response to protests which had taken place following the murder of three children in Southport. He was arrested the day after making the comments and told the court he felt it was his "duty" to attend counter-protests. The trial continues. Additional reporting by PA Media 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. More on this story Related internet links By Olivia Le Poidevin and Emma Farge GENEVA (Reuters) -Talks to create the world's first legally binding treaty to tackle plastic pollution went into overtime on Thursday, with talks adjourned to the following day. Countries scrambled to bridge deep divisions over the extent of future curbs on what was meant to be the final day of negotiations at the United Nations in Geneva. But with just 30 minutes left in the scheduled meeting, the chair of the talks of the International Negotiating Committee (INC), Luis Vayas Valdivieso, told delegates the negotiations would run into Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The INC is a group established by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) in 2022 with the mandate to develop a legally binding global treaty to address plastic pollution. Late Thursday night, countries had been awaiting a new text that could be the basis for further negotiations after delegations who want an ambitious plastics treaty threw out the one proposed on Wednesday. States pushing for a comprehensive treaty, including Panama, Kenya, Britain and the European Union, shared frustration that key articles on the full life cycle of plastic pollution - from the production of polymers to the disposal of waste - as well as the harm to health had been removed entirely from the text. Oil-producing nations are against curbs on the production of virgin plastics derived from petroleum, coal, and gas, while others want it to be limited and to have stricter controls over plastic products and hazardous chemicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You cannot reconcile these two positions, and so I think that the chair will keep on trying. I don't know if he can, and if he can't, it will be time to seriously think about how to move forward," David Azoulay, the managing attorney of the Center for International Environmental Law's Geneva Office, told Reuters. EU Commissioner Jessika Roswall said a "weak, static agreement serves no one". "A treaty that covers the full life cycle of plastics and can evolve with science is a vital step ... The next few hours will show whether we can rise to the moment," she said in a statement. Panama described Wednesday's draft text as "repulsive" and called for a complete rewrite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saudi Arabia, which is resisting major curbs, said nothing could be agreed until the treaty's scope was clearly defined. More than 1,000 delegates have gathered in Geneva for the sixth round of talks, after a meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee in South Korea late last year ended without a deal. Advocacy groups held a banner and chanted against a "weak treaty" on Thursday as they waited for delegates to arrive in the U.N. plenary hall in Geneva for further discussions. The OECD warns that without intervention, plastic production will triple by 2060, further choking oceans, harming health, and exacerbating climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement COMPROMISE Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, co-chair of the High Ambition Countries group, told Reuters that all parties need to compromise. "We are willing to discuss all articles, three, six, for example, to be able to create the package that can be good enough for everyone," he said, pointing to potential openness to re-discussing restrictions on chemicals and production. Ross Eisenberg, president of America's Plastic Makers, which is part of the American Chemistry Council, said he was optimistic. "We think this can be really good for our industry, society, and for the environment," he told Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The council, which supports a deal without limits on plastic production, warned that the U.S. might not ratify a treaty containing provisions to ban chemicals or restrict plastic production. However, Colombian lawmaker Juan Carlos Lozada urged that no deal would be better than a watered-down deal. Some 300 businesses, including Unilever, have pressed for an ambitious treaty that harmonises rules globally. "If we don't get that degree of harmonisation, we risk further fragmentation ... and higher costs," Ed Shepherd, senior global sustainability manager at Unilever, told Reuters. (Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin and Emma Farge in Geneva; additional reporting by Alexander Marrow in London; editing by Giles Elgood, Marguerita Choy and Stephen Coates) WYOMING, Mich. (WOOD) A new spot in Wyoming offers Vietnamese coffee, matcha and a place to relax and hang out. The sea salt latte, a popular item on the Sapo Coffee House menu. (Aug. 13, 2025) Sapo Coffee House celebrated its soft opening Saturday as it prepares for an official grand opening in the next month or two. Located inside an office building at 1850 44th St. SW near Burlingame Avenue, it offers a taste of Vietnam, John Phan, who opened the coffee shop with his wife, said. Inside WOODTV.com: Building West Michigan Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the menu, you can find items like hand-whisked matcha and Bac Xiu, a Vietnamese drink with milk, condensed milk and coffee. Some of the coffee beans the shop uses are straight from Vietnam, offering a nuttier, more chocolatey flavor compared to American coffee. There are also food options like croissants and a croffle, a waffle croissant, alongside a Banh Mi Cha Lua, a Vietnamese sandwich served on a baguette. Maybe you dont have a chance to go to Vietnam, but you can come here to try it, Phan said. Sapo Coffee House in Wyoming. (Aug. 13, 2025) Sapo Coffee House in Wyoming. (Aug. 13, 2025) Sapo Coffee House in Wyoming. (Aug. 13, 2025) Sapo Coffee House in Wyoming. (Aug. 13, 2025) Everything is made to order, he said, noting that good things take time. When he and his wife prepared to open, he said they werent expecting to have many customers at first. But during the soft opening weekend, they were slammed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Final chapter: Longtime Grand Rapids restaurant closing Theres a lot of customers (that) come and love us, and I really appreciate it, he said. Sapo Coffee House in Wyoming. (Aug. 13, 2025) Sapo Coffee offers board games for customers to play. The owners hope people will stay and hang out for a while. Phan, who moved to the U.S. with his mom from Vietnam after his dad died, explained that in his home country, people will often spend at least an hour at coffee shops every day to drink coffee, to talk to each other, to have connection with each other. New cafe at Grand Rapids Downtown Market will offer cheese counter, wine bar, coffee He hopes people will take that approach at Sapo Coffee House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to provide not just the coffee. I want provide the experience of how we enjoy life, he said. Sometimes we have to work slowly and do everything very slowly to enjoy the time we are living. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) A federal court has denied Dylann Roofs motion for a new trial to overturn his conviction after he opened fire in a historic Charleston church, killing nine members of the congregation during bible study. The US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit ruled Wednesday, Aug. 13, to deny the motion for a new trial. In April, attorneys for Roof filed a motion to vacate, claiming Judge Richard Gergel, who presided over his case since the day after he was indicted, was biased against him. He petitioned the Fourth Circuit Court to recuse Judge Gergel from the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He petitioned the Fourth Circuit Court to grant a writ of mandamus, which is a request for the court to grant the recusal. In its ruling, the court stated that Roof did not show a clear and indisputable right to the relief requested due to his motion being based on hearsay. Furthermore, if Judge Gergel had developed a negative view of Roof that is not grounds for a recusal, the court maintained. Additionally, a writ of mandamus is only granted when the petitioner has no other means for relief, which Roof did not prove, the court wrote. Roof remains on federal death for the 2015 killings in Terre Haute, Indiana. His execution date has not been set. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On June 17, 2015, Roof entered Emanuel AME Church, a predominantly Black church, where he attended a bible study for about 45 minutes before opening fire during prayer, trial testimony revealed. The nine people killed in the massacre include Rev. Clementa C. Pinckney, who was the churchs pastor and a South Carolina state senator, Cynthia Graham Hurd, Susie Jackson, Ethel Lee Lance, Depayne Middleton-Doctor, Tywanza Sanders, Rev. Daniel Simmons, Sharonda Coleman-Singleton, and Myra Thompson. Roof was sentenced to death in 2017 for the massacre. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected Roofs previous appeal to overturn his sentence and conviction in 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 WCBD News 2. SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) applauded in a press release in response to a ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas vacating the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (FWS) 2022 listing of the Lesser Prairie Chicken (LPC) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Biden Administrations U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service weaponized the Endangered Species Act to target American energy production in the Permian Basin, using species like the Lesser Prairie Chicken as one of their tools, said Pfluger. These listings were completely misguided, ignoring the vigilant conservation efforts already underway in West Texas. This week, a district court confirmed what weve been saying all along and rightfully struck down the listing, ruling that a foundational error was made. I applaud the courts decision as a major step forward in ending the years-long attack on farmers, ranchers, and energy producers across Texas. We canand mustprotect important species without sacrificing the livelihoods of our local and rural communities that power our nation. Under the Biden Administration, the Lesser Prairie Chicken was listed as an endangered species. Some speculated that it was ignoring the conservation efforts already being made by Texas and Kansas farmers, ranchers and agricultural and energy producers. The efforts resulted in net acreage conservation gains for the Dunes Sagebrush Lizards habitat and increased the Lesser Prairie Chicken population stated the press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the year, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) and Congressman Tracey Mann (KS-01) sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum urging him to reverse the listing of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard and the Lesser Prairie Chicken from the threatened and endangered species list. They did this in hopes of that it would unleash American energy, highlight the success of local conservation efforts and restore regulatory certainty for rural communities stated the press 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 ConchoValleyHomepage.com. An appeals court ruling on Wednesday clears the way for the Trump administration to continue cutting funds previously allocated for foreign aid. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, in a 2-1 decision, ruled that only the legislative branch can sue a presidential administration for making changes to congressionally approved budgets, according to CNN. This decision empowers the Trump administration to cut budgeted funds, allowing President Donald Trump to continue winding down foreign aid grants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling interpreted the law around the Impoundment Control Act, which regulates the action of a president to delay or withhold funding that has been already appropriated by Congress in the federal budget, according to CNN. This ruling found that only the comptroller general, a part of the Government Accountability Office in the legislative branch of the government, can sue the executive branch over alleged impoundment. Gene Dodaro, acting comptroller general of the U.S. Government Accountability Office, testifies before the Senate Banking Committee on ways to modernize the U.S. financial regulatory system, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009. | J. Scott Applewhite, Associated Press Wednesdays ruling did not address the question of whether the cuts were constitutional, instead focusing on whether the nonprofits that sued the Trump administration had the standing to bring a case, according to ABC News. This ruling lifted a lower courts order requiring the administration to continue processing foreign aid payments with funds Congress had budgeted, according to The New York Times. Judges Karen Henderson and Gregory Katsas, appointed by Presidents George H.W. Bush and Donald Trump, respectively, made up the majority in the ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district court erred in granting that relief because the grantees lack a cause of action to press their claims, the majority wrote, according to ABC News. A dissenting opinion was written by Judge Florence Pan, a Biden appointee, which says that the decision diminishes the ability of the balance of powers to be security against tyranny. Former United States Agency for International Development workers show their support to USAID workers retrieving their personal belongings from USAID's headquarters in Washington, Feb. 27, 2025. | Manuel Balce Ceneta, Associated Press It is our responsibility to check the President when he violates the law and exceeds his constitutional authority. We fail to do that here, Pan wrote, per ABC News. According to The New York Times, Wednesdays decision gives the White House a significant legal victory, giving the administration the authority of impoundment, which is something legal scholars and aid groups had considered to be strictly limited by federal law. It is possible that this case could be reheard by another court, per CNN. TALLAHASSEE, Fla. A federal appeals court will speed up consideration of a legal battle about whether the Florida Department of Environmental Protection needs to take additional steps to protect manatees in the Indian River Lagoon. Embry Kidd, a Judge on the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, issued an order Wednesday granting a request by the department to expedite arguments in the case. The department filed an appeal in May after U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza ruled that the agency had violated the Endangered Species Act and ordered more efforts to protect manatees in the northern Indian River Lagoon, which is primarily in Brevard County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among other things, Mendoza ordered a moratorium on constructing and installing septic systems in the area. The lawsuit, filed by the environmental group Bear Warriors United, argued, in part, that sewage discharges into the lagoon led to the demise of seagrass, a key food source for manatees, and resulted in starvation deaths and other harm to the animals. The department last month asked to expedite the appeal, saying it is subject to a permanent injunction that it contends is imposing ongoing irrecoverable monetary costs on the state as well as injuries to its sovereign state interests. Wednesdays order set a briefing schedule that included a final brief being filed by Oct. 17. It also directed that the case be scheduled for arguments on the next available calendar with a vacancy after briefing is finished. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. A lot of things happened. Here are some of the things. This is TPMs Morning Memo. Sign up for the email version. RIP USAID Yesterday brought another example of the extreme difficulty of litigating the constitutional structure of government in court and its inadequacy in reining in Trumps lawless rampage in a timely fashion. You may have seen that the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, in a 2-1 decision by Republican appointees Karen Henderson and Gregory Katsas, effectively ratified the Trump administrations freezing of foreign aid funding. It was a bit more nuanced than that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court ruled that foreign aid groups could not legally challenge the impoundment of the foreign aid funding. Under the law, the court concluded, only the Government Accountability Office, an arm of Congress, can challenge the presidents impoundment of funds. To date, the comptroller general, who heads the GAO, hasnt take that step. To emphasize, the GAO hasnt even commenced a lawsuit yet. (Joyce Vance has more on this mechanism.) The upshot is that after months of litigation, during which United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been dismantled, its back to square one to hold Trump to account for his lawlessness. Or to put it another way, the damage has already been done and cannot now or at some future date be rectified in any meaningful way. One caveat: Its possible the full court of appeals could overturn the panel decision. The dissent by Judge Florence Pan, a Democratic appointee, was scalding of the majority: My colleagues in the majority excuse the governments forfeiture of what they perceive to be a key argument, and then rule in the Presidents favor on that ground, thus departing from procedural norms that are designed to safeguard the courts impartiality and independence. Moreover, the courts holding that the grantees have no constitutional cause of action is as startling as it is erroneous. In her dissent, Pan was clear about the structural constitutional issues at stake and the enforcement role that the two-judge majority was abdicating: At bottom, the courts acquiescence in and facilitation of the Executives 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. Because the court turns a blind eye to the serious implications of this case for the rule of law and the very structure of our government, I respectfully dissent. The USAID debacle remains one of the most haunting aspects of the first months of the Trump II presidency. And the collective inability, unwillingness, and indifference of the courts to rein it in is a sobering sign of the limits of judicial power against this executive. Law Firms Who Struck Deals With Trump Now Pay the Piper NYT: Two of the law firms that reached deals with President Trump this year to avoid punitive executive orders were connected in recent months with the Commerce Department about working on trade deals, according to three people briefed on the matter. The firms, Kirkland & Ellis and Skadden Arps, were connected to the department by Mr. Trumps personal lawyer, Boris Epshteyn, two of the people said. Quote of the Day Only historians and trained museum professionals are qualified to conduct such a review, which is intended to ensure historical accuracy. To suggest otherwise is an affront to the professional integrity of curators, historians, educators and everyone involved in the creation of solid, evidence-based content.Sarah Weicksel, executive director of the American Historical Association, on President Trumps politicization of the Smithsonian Institution. Trump White House Wants to Tamper With Jobs Numbers The Trump White House is involved in discussions about changing the way the government collects and reports jobs data, the WSJ reports. It is clearly another way that the White House is trying to tinker with the jobs report to placate the president and minimize political damage from bad jobs numbers. Oh? NBC News reported that E.J. Antoni, President Trumps egregiously unqualified nominee to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics, can be seen in multiple videos on the grounds of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, before leaving the area. The White House says Antoni was merely a curious bystander who wandered over to the Capitol after seeing news reports and did not cross any barricades or demonstrate. The Corruption: Trump Pentagon Edition Reuters: 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, according to seven sources familiar with the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More Medicaid Cuts in the Works? Politico: 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. Notable The good government group Common Cause is backing away from its longtime opposition to gerrymandering and partisan redistricting, saying it will not actively oppose mid-decade redistricting in blue states. Good Read How Ukraine is scrambling to make sure Donald Trump doesnt sell it out in tomorrows summit meeting in Alaska with Russias Vladimir Putin. 80 Years Solomon Pena, the failed New Mexico candidate who was convicted of shooting up the homes of four Democratic officeholders in 2022-23, was sentenced to 80 years in prison. Do you like Morning Memo? Let us know! A new COVID-19 variant, XFG nicknamed Stratus is now the dominant strain in the U.S. And the number of cases is rising in whats being described as a fairly typical late summer COVID-19 surge. So far, Stratus has been confirmed in wastewater in 30 states, based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention surveillance. But the public health giant said its likely COVID-19 cases are growing in 45 states and not declining anywhere. As Today put it, cases are on the rise in nearly all U.S. states and COVID-related emergency room visits are up among all age groups, just in time for back-to-school season. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today reported that XFG was given its cloud-themed nickname Stratus on X by evolutionary biologist T. Ryan Gregory, who also coined Nimbus. The Stratus or XFG variant transmits easily and is spreading worldwide. Stratus is a combination of variants F.7 and LP.8.1.2. While it didnt account for a single reported U.S. case in April, it accounted for 43% of cases by the end of June. The CDC noted that because of lower reporting levels, the agency has moved to longer reporting periods to track variants. The viral level nationally is considered moderate, but thats not true of 14 states that have much more viral activity. The CDC wastewater map shows high or very high viral activity levels in a number of states, including California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado and Texas, as well as Southern states. Many of the states surrounding those states have moderate viral levels in the wastewater. In Hawaii and Louisiana, the levels are very high. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that fewer people are dying or being hospitalized compared to when COVID-19 was new. The bad news is the new strain is believed to be highly contagious, Dr. Albert Ko, professor of public health, epidemiology and medicine at Yale School of Public Health, told Today. He said both the earlier Nimbus variant and Stratus seem to be more transmissible than other variants. The Today article noted that XFG also has several unique mutations in its spike protein, which have been shown to improve the viruss ability to evade COVID-19 antibodies from prior infection or vaccination, per the World Health Organization. Already-available vaccines are reportedly effective against Stratus in terms of preventing or reducing risk of severe illness. Symptoms of Stratus The virus symptoms are similar to other strains, though there are two anecdotal carveouts. While loss of taste or smell can occur, those are reportedly somewhat less likely with Stratus. And having a really, really sore throat and hoarseness have been reported to be more common with this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other, more standard symptoms of COVID also apply: Fever or chills Cough Breathing challenges Congestion or a runny nose Muscle or body aches Headache Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea The CDC says to get medical attention if you have: Crash in Arden Hills kills Brooklyn Park woman originally appeared on Bring Me The News. The Minnesota State Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a 21-year-old woman in Arden Hills. Fatuma Yussuf Sharif-Isaack, of Brooklyn Park, was killed in the crash on Tuesday evening, and two female passengers were injured, according to authorities. Sharif-Isaack was driving a Subaru Legacy west on I-694 just before 6:30 p.m. Tuesday when the crash occurred. Troopers say the car crossed from the right lane into the left shoulder at Highway 10, then hit the guardrail, rolled over, and struck a Honda CR-V before coming to a rest on its side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharif-Isaack wasn't wearing a seatbelt and died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The passengers in Sharif-Isaack's car were taken to Hennepin County Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. The 41-year-old driver of the Honda CR-V was not injured. State Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Allina EMS, St. Paul Fire, and Ramsey County all responded to the scene. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared. WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (WGHP) University Parkway southbound between Long Drive and Polo Road was shut down due to a crash on Thursday. The crash happened around 5 p.m., according to a Winston-Salem Police Department news release. No injuries have been reported at this time. The cause of the crash is unknown. This is a developing story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. Hey Creatorverse readers, Its no secret that YouTube, a major platform for creators, has a kids problem. Even though viewers aged two to 11 years old make up about 17% of YouTubes audience, the platform has been called impossible to monitor by some parents, and for good reason. YouTube estimates that a staggering 20 million videos are uploaded to the platform every day. More from TheWrap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But starting Wednesday, YouTube has taken its childrens safety precautions a step further, implementing an AI age verification tool in the U.S. The new tool uses YouTube activity and how long the account has been active to determine the potential age of the user. If theyre deemed under 18 years old, YouTube will notify the user and put in safeguards to make the account more age appropriate. That means implementing non-personalized ads, limiting posting and implementing the platforms digital well-being tools. Users who are incorrectly identified as under 18 will have to prove their age using a government ID, selfie or credit card. YouTube is far from the first company to use AI to ramp up its age restrictions in the wake of the Online Safety Act being passed in the U.K., a law that requires websites and apps to verify users are over 18. Roblox has them for its unfiltered chat option. Both Bluesky and Discord are using facial recognition technology to confirm their users ages (Thats led to some tricksters using video game characters, like Norman Reedus in Death Stranding 2, to bypass the system). For all their good intentions, these more invasive measures have left a sour taste for some. Albert Fox Cahn, an anti-surveillance advocate and lawyer, called facial surveillance and ID checks a flawed idea in The Atlantic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A website with sensitive content arguably becomes less safe to use, because the stakes of a breach become much higher, Cahn wrote. Yet, specifically when it comes to YouTube, its difficult to think of better ways to protect kids from this virtual wild west. The company does offer the safeguarded YouTube Kids, one of the companys youth products that roughly 100 million users interact with each month. But before this new age verification policy, there was very little preventing a kid from potentially seeing something they shouldnt. Our first responsibility, always, is to create a safe experience for our youngest, most vulnerable users, Katie Kurtz, global head of youth and learning for YouTube, told me last year. Heres hoping this new measure works. Now onto what you may have missed the rest of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kayla Cobb Senior Reporter kayla.cobb@thewrap.com P.S. You dont want to miss a livestream roundtable Ill be moderating, Creator Power: The Business of Influence presented by Adobe, at noon PT on Aug. 26. Sign up today here. Whats New Alan Chikin Chow launches a new scripted show with Laneige Beauty and the Beat is more than just a new shortform series. This partnership between Chow and the Korean beauty company Laneige marks a step towards the future as brands are trying to figure out how to monetize scripted content. Once the industry figures that out, Hollywood really needs to start watching its back. Travel videos just got easier thanks to TikTok Go Creators can now get hotel vouchers through the platform. Its all part of TikTok Go, a new creator monetization program that lets local merchants, such as hotel and restaurant owners, either pay creators a commission or offer them vouchers for promoting their business. Creators have to be over 18 years old and have at least 1,000 followers to qualify. But its a big step in letting creators monetize services rather than just relying on products. For now, only hotel bookings are available in the U.S., but the program in Indonesia and Japan includes vouchers for restaurants and local experiences. Tubi taps former TikTok head Kudzi Chikumbu as its VP of Creator Partnerships Do you know who in Hollywood really gets the creator space? Tubi. And the Fox-owned ad-supported streamer is betting even more on this industry by hiring TikToks former global head of creator marketing, Kudzi Chikumbu. The company also announced its adding several titles from MrBeast, CelinaSpookyBoo and more to its Tubi for Creators program. Its a win-win. Tubi gets new desirable content for its 100 million monthly users, over half of which are millennials or Gen Z, and in turn these creators get to stand out from the YouTube pack. By the Numbers StubHub says creators, podcasters and authors sold nearly 500% more tickets this year This is compared to sales in 2024 and continues the trend of creators turning their digital followings into real-life events. The most in-demand creator tours were a slew of podcasting favorites Alex Coopers Unwell tour, the Crime Junkies podcast tour and Mel Robbins Let Them tour. Additionally, creator tour prices were about 40% less than traditional live events. That lower cost and the fact that creator tours are more likely to travel to areas often ignored by bigger artists are major reasons for the uptick. YouTube has removed over 179 million videos from its platform in the past six years Thats not all that a new report from Video Advertising Bureau found. YouTube also removed 139 million channels and 25 billion comments from its platform, all of which violate the companys community guidelines. YouTube noted that some of the top reasons for removal are child safety issues, harassment and hateful or dangerous speech. Really puts into perspective just how massive YouTube is. 2025 may set a new record for mergers and acquisitions in the creator economy In the first half of the year, 52 M&A deals were completed, a 73% increase compared to the first half of 2024 according to the advisory firm Quartermast Advisors. Publicis $150 million acquisition of Captiv8 was one of those big deals. As brutal as this landscape may seem, its another sign that the creator economy is maturing to become a media powerhouse rather than just a big number. But speaking of big numbers, an eMarketer report found that if all U.S. creators moved their brand deals to a single imaginary app, that app would be worth $10.5 billion and would be the fourth-largest social platform in the country based on brand investments. Who to Watch Areq Little is known about the TikTok creator Areq other than they are a hell of a great editor. So far the creators Creed edit has amassed over 114 million views and nearly 15 million likes, and its easy to see why. It slaps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Areqs other edits are equally as impressive as the Creed one, and the creator has even sparked a TikTok trend of other creators editing shows and movies to LoVibes remix of Kendrick Lamars untitled 05 (The Snowfall edit from farquaad.films is also remarkable). Im not in the business of hiring editors, but if I was I would be sliding into some DMs, pronto. Bonus Content A Right-Wing Influencer Tried to Be a Tradwife. It Almost Broke Her (via The New York Times) Why Creators Are Building Hollywood-Style Studios to Make TV-Ready Content (via TheWrap) Nobody Wins on Surrounded (via The New Yorker) Want more? Explore WrapPRO now. This report provides a weekly deep dive into the creator economy. It highlights key trends, political and technological developments, data points and industry leaders all with the goal of making you smarter about this constantly evolving space. The post Creatorverse: YouTube Hopes AI Will Solve Its NSF-Kids Problem appeared first on TheWrap. For nearly six months, Crest High graduate Allison Bustillo has been held in the Steward Detention Center in Georgia after she was snatched from her home in Charlotte on Feb. 25, transported out of state, and kept behind bars hundreds of miles away from her mother and brothers. Bustillo, who spent most of her life in Cleveland County after arriving in the United States with her mother when she was 8-years-old, is now waiting to find out her fate. 'Walk in someone else's shoes' Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church, in Fuquay-Varina, is hosting an event called "A Heart Movement," which will feature speakers, a panel for a question and answer session, the telling of immigrant stories and a call to action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Please invite friends and neighbors, including those who may not agree," the event page said. "This is an incredibly important opportunity to walk in someone elses shoes for an evening." The page featured different stories from immigrants, including Bustillo's. "Allison Bustillo Chinchilla, now 20, came to the U.S. from Honduras at age 8," said the post, written by Angie Ottosen Staheli, actress and director who helped organize the event. "She grew up in North Carolina, graduated from high school, earned a scholarship, and was studying to become a nurse while caring for her autistic younger brother." The post said on Feb. 20, ICE agents stormed her familys Charlotte apartment with guns drawn and no warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Allison, her mother, and brother were taken. Only Allison remains in custody, transferred to Stewart Detention Center in Georgia, where shes been held for over five months. She has no criminal record," Staheli said. "Despite the fact that she was a child when she came, ICE refuses to release her. Shes missed college classes, suffered from untreated scoliosis and anxiety in detention, and been denied parole multiple times." Keily Chinchilla holds a photo of her 20-year-old daughter, Allison Bustillo, who was taken by ICE agents in February to a detention facility in Georgia. Bustillo is a graduate of Crest High School and recently started a career in nursing. Months later, and the blue door of the apartment off of W.T. Harris Boulevard in Charlotte, still shows the force ICE agents used to break into the home, the concave dent in the exterior serving as a continual reminder of the nightmare that the family is still living. On the morning of Thursday, Feb. 20, Keily Chinchilla said she was already at her construction job when she got a distraught call from Bustillo, her daughter, who had been making breakfast for her younger brothers. She said around a dozen law enforcement officers had broken down the door and were in the house. In broken English mixed with Spanish, Chinchilla said the agents had been there looking for someone else, someone who didn't live in the house anymore, but days after the incident Bustillo received a court order demanding she appear before an immigration judge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was then taken to Stewart Detention Center. Seeking a better life Chinchilla said she fled the poverty and violence of Honduras with two of her four children in 2012, and the family ended up settling in Shelby where they lived up until recently. Her two youngest children were born in the United States. Hanging on the wall of the tidy Charlotte apartment are photos of Bustillo in her green Crest High graduation cap and gown, long dark hair swept back, a brilliant smile splitting her face. Other photos of her siblings and mother are scattered around the apartment. Bustillo's little dog, Bella, looks forlorn. Her mother said, like the rest of the family, the dog has been missing Bustillo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since she was taken, Chinchilla has been communicating with her daughter through an app that allows her to text and call her at the detention facility. She said Bustillo isn't doing well. She's unable to eat or sleep, has been suffering from panic attacks and isn't receiving adequate treatment for her scoliosis. She said she is contained in a crowded room with around 90 other people. "Demasiado," her mother says in Spanish. Too much. Chinchilla wipes away tears as she talks about how she has relied on Bustillo, who has helped raise her younger brother, Noah, who was diagnosed with severe autism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's very unfair that they're causing so much pain to good people, who only want to work in this country and contribute good things and to young people who have a bight future and are people who only want to get ahead and study," she said through the help of a translation app. Chinchilla has been forced to wear an ankle monitor and is not allowed to leave the house, except to go to work. ICE agents come to the home periodically to do check-ins, and she said she is afraid for her second oldest, who will be 18 in October. Bustillo has an attorney in Georgia, an attorney Chinchilla said she paid $2,000, but she said she doesn't know what's happening with her daughter's case, and she receives very little communication. Her court dates keep getting canceled, but she isn't told why. A few months ago, a fundraiser was started to help raise money for another attorney. "My wonderful daughter Allison Bustillo is a good girl, she arrived with her brother and me when she was 8 years old, we were kidnapped by immigration when they were looking for another person," she wrote on the GoFundMe page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She wrote that Allison could not obtain legal status since the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program was canceled, and "they did not give more opportunities to new dreamers." "She is very grateful to God for giving her the opportunity to grow in this country and be able to graduate as a nursing assistant and win a scholarship to Gardner-Webb University in North Carolina," Chinchilla said. "A young woman very dedicated to her studies and a great human being. She loves taking care of the elderly in her work in nursing homes and her little brother, Noah, who is an autistic child and her little brother Alan who misses her very much." She said Bustillo is her support. "I am a single mother, and I work in construction to be able to raise my children and give them what they need, I thank everyone for their noble help to be able to pay for her lawyers and for her to be released since she has no crimes and is unjustly detained in Stewart Detention Center Georgia, thank all for your support blessing," she concluded. 'Allison doesn't know any other life but here' Chinchilla said Allison spent most of her life in Shelby, attending Springmore Elementary School and graduating from Crest High in 2023. While she was still a high school student, she took classes at Cleveland Community College and following graduation, took the CNA test in South Carolina. While still a student, she started working at TerraBella in Shelby and then got a job at TerraBella in Lake Norman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinchilla keeps a folder of documents that contains court orders, letters from members of Beaver Dam Baptist Church in Shelby, which the family attended for years, vouching for Allison, and various accolades, awards and certificates. She received the Superintendent's Choice Award at the 2019 Cleveland County Arts Council student art competition. She was nominated for the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Award of Excellence for her academic record and leadership potential and inducted into the Cleveland County Schools Career and Technical Education Honor Society. Jackie and Novella McClung, retired missionaries for the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, said they moved back to Shelby after serving for more than 30 years and met Bustillo and her family. The McClungs wrote that Allison is a joy to others and her family, helping to care for her three younger brothers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She is dependable, trustworthy and a positive asset to this country," they said. "She has been an excellent student in Springmore Elementary School, Crest Middle School and Crest High School. We were privileged to attend many honors days where she received awards. While in high school she took college classes at Cleveland Community College, preparing to become a nurse. She has plans to attend Gardner-Webb University to complete that goal." They said that both Bustillo and Hanzel, her 17-year-old brother, were known to reach out to the lonely or left out kids in the church and make them feel welcome. "Allison has always shown responsibility, respectability, and a genuine desire to make a difference in herself and others.Allison does not know any other life except here," the McClungs wrote. "She has few memories of Honduras.She has no family or friends in that country. Please show mercy to Allison, she deserves to be able to live in freedom in the country in which she has grown up." Terryann Macke also wrote a judge asking for Allison to be allowed to remain in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She is loved and treasured by those who know her," she wrote. "Please don't let Allison get lost." Others spoke about Bustillo's strong faith, her dedication to her family and how she is pursuing a career. "Deporting Allison would be a devastating loss, not only to her family and a community that loves her but also to the future patients who would benefit from her care," Rebekah Reynon wrote. "She has worked tirelessly to build a future here and I sincerely ask that she be given the opportunity to remain in the United States so she can continue her education an fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse and helping others." Reach reporter Rebecca Sitzes at rsitzes@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Mother fights to keep daughter, Crest grad, from being deported Crews rescue paraglider who crashed MESA COUNTY, Colo. (KREX) A paraglider was injured in a crash on Wednesday on Ottos Ridge, according to the Lower Valley Fire District (LVFD). Careflight was called to assist with the injured individual. Crews stabilized the paraglider before they were transported to a local trauma center. LVFD thanked Careflight 3 for its help with the incident. Ottos Ridge is a popular soaring location near the Colorado-Utah border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. CROFTON, Neb. (KCAU) In less than a week, voters in the Crofton Community Schools are anticipated to start voting on a $5.9 million bond. District officials said the money would be used in several areas, including adding more classrooms and a better cafeteria for elementary students. Election officials said ballots are set to be mailed out on August 18. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those need to be completed and turned back in to their respective election commissioners office in Knox and Cedar counties. The deadline to get those ballots in is by 5 p.m. on September 9. This is the third time that a bond measure has been on the ballot since March 2022. Voters rejected the previous 2 measures. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) Tennessee state Sen. Rusty Crowe has endorsed U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn in her bid to become the Volunteer States next governor. Blackburn announced on Aug. 6 that she was entering the race for governor in 2026 as Bill Lees final term nears its end. Rusty Crowe announces plans for re-election Blackburn is set to face off against U.S. Rep. John Rose in a Republican primary come August 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, Blackburn shared a social media post featuring an endorsement from Crowe, who represents Carter, Johnson and Washington counties. I served with Marsha for many years in the Tennessee Senate. Together, we stopped our great state from having an unconstitutional income tax. Marsha is like a Tennessee snapping turtle; when she latches on to an issue important to the people she serves, she just doesnt let go. She is a true conservative and ready to ensure our state is Americas conservative leader. Rusty Crowe, Tennessee State Senator, District 3 Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (WTNH) At Foxwoods Casino in Mashantucket, some walk in to roll high and others come to fly high with their Highflyer Zipline. Since the attractions opening, the zipline has had Connecticut residents talking, as its a perfect experience for the adrenaline seekers and bucket list checkers. Cruisin Connecticut: Lyman Orchards returns with sunflower maze for month of August Ive been ziplining before, this has always been on my list but Ive never done it 30 floors up and over this length of distance so Im looking forward to a thrill ride! Michael Bies said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What makes this attraction such a thrill ride is its size, taking off 35 floors up off of Fox Tower, leaving riders flying 4,000 feet across the Connecticut woods below. Riders also have an option of purchasing a ticket add on which allows them to try to throw a beanbag during their trip into a cornhole board down below for the chance to win $300. Cruisin Connecticut: Ocean Beach Park continues to draw crowds after decades of fun in the sun As one of the longest ziplines in the state, team members say its enough to entice just about any member of the family. The youngest Ive flown was 5 years old, the oldest was a 99-year-old woman and then we get all sorts of people in between, Alex Hessami said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twins Sophia and Aubrey Funk said after eyeing the zipline for about a year, the ride was well worth the wait. It was good, it was good scenery, Aubrey said. I was honestly expecting a little more fear, I guess I was just like a little nervous, but once you get going youre kinda just cruisin' Sophia added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. US and Russian officials will converge on the state of Alaska ahead of a highly anticipated Friday meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin. The pair will meet for the first time in six years, as Trump tries to enact a key campaign pledge to end Russia's war in Ukraine. The US president, who has portrayed himself as a global peacemaker, hopes to leverage his personal relationship with Putin to achieve a ceasefire breakthrough where others have failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday he assessed there was a "25% chance" the meeting would not be successful. Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelensky has been excluded from the talks, and warned that any resolutions made in his absence will be meaningless. In Anchorage there are few signs of the impending high-stakes meeting, except for the international media that have descended on the area. Journalists are rubbing elbows with holidaymakers from the "lower 48" states on visits to the Alaskan wilderness during the height of the tourist season. Friday's meeting between the two leaders will take place entirely on a nearby US military base a reflection of security concerns and the relative brevity of the planned sit-down, currently scheduled to last just a few hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The summit comes exactly one week after Trump's deadline for Russia to reach a ceasefire or face tough new sanctions. It was always highly unlikely that Kyiv and Moscow who have been locked in a bloody war since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 would reach an agreement to end hostilities before that deadline. There was scepticism about whether Trump would stand by his threat of imposing sanctions on countries that do business with Russia, which would have resulted in a blistering trade war with China. He has, however, gone as far as to say he will impose secondary tariffs on India later this month over its purchases of Russian oil. Last week's announcement that Trump and Putin would meet had the effect of tacitly pausing the sanctions countdown - and awarding both sides more time to think about their next move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the week, the American approach to the aims and hopes for the summit has been varied shifting from the positive, to the cautious, to the menacing. At the latter extreme, Trump has threatened "very severe consequences" if his Russian counterpart does not agree to end the war. What seemed to harden his approach was a group call on Wednesday with European leaders including Zelensky. On the other hand, Kyiv will have been alarmed when Trump mooted the "swapping of territories" and the White House indicated that the president would take a passive approach by treating the meeting as a "listening exercise". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the while, the Russians have remained mostly silent refusing to engage with speculation and rumours of frozen frontlines, territorial exchanges or minerals deals between Moscow and Washington. There is consistency in that silence. Whenever Kremlin officials have spoken this week, it has been to reiterate Putin's seemingly intractable position on the conflict. They have restated that the war will only end once Russia gains full sovereignty over the Ukrainian regions it partially occupies Donetsk and Luhansk, known as the Donbas, as well as Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and a pledge that Kyiv will demilitarise and not join Nato, the military alliance of Western powers. But Trump seems convinced that the usually convivial relationship he has cultivated with Putin could help him unlock a deal to end the conflict and further his image as a global peacemaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The issue has become central to the question of what Trump has delivered on the world stage since returning to the US presidency. He has a domestic audience to keep happy, and many of his supporters backed him for his pledge to swiftly end the war and disentangle America from expensive foreign conflicts more generally. Ahead of the summit - his first meeting with Putin for six years - the American hopes that his negotiating style will pay dividends where other efforts to end the war have failed. His top officials have stressed the importance of him meeting Putin in person, and Trump himself has talked up his business-like instincts, saying he may know "in the first two minutes... exactly whether or not a deal can be made". Europe finds itself in the unenviable position of being caught between the two sides and excluded from Friday's discussion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During their last-minute call with Trump on Wednesday, European leaders emerged tentatively optimistic that once in Alaska the US president would fight their corner. Like Ukraine itself, they have endured several turbulent months, during which Trump had a memorable White House bust-up with Zelensky and later temporarily paused military supplies for Kyiv - a markedly different stance to his predecessor Joe Biden. Ukraine has been sidelined ahead of Friday, too. Despite protests by the Ukrainian leader that any agreement struck by Trump and Putin without input from Kyiv would amount to "dead decisions", it became increasingly clear as the week progressed that the US-Russia meeting would remain a bilateral only. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While he was careful to keep Trump onside, Zelensky felt he had to intervene after the US president's throwaway comments about the need to see "some swapping, changes in land" between Russia and Ukraine. "We will not withdraw from the Donbas. We cannot do that," the Ukrainian president said, with a hint of exasperation, as speculation over potential territorial concessions reached a height on Tuesday. "Everyone forgets the first part: our territories are illegally occupied. For the Russians, the Donbas is a bridgehead for a future new offensive," he said, arguing that he would "pave the way" for further conflict on its soil if he gave up the region. Like many of his compatriots, Zelensky is convinced that Putin wants to destroy Ukraine's sovereignty and people, and believes any concession to Russia would result in renewed and perhaps fatal aggression in the near future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is why he has consistently pushed to be invited into the room with Trump and Putin. While this will not be the case during Friday's summit, the US president has pledged to update Zelensky soon afterwards - and has indicated he is angling for a "quick" three-way meeting in the near future. What Putin would have to gain from such a meeting is unclear. The Kremlin has always said Putin and Zelensky have no reason to meet until much further down the negotiating line. But that could still be far off. Ultimately, Putin's "central objective lies in obtaining... the geopolitical 'neutralisation' of Ukraine," according to analyst Tatyana Stanovaya. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is extremely difficult to convey what is truly at stake... as people often simply cannot accept that Putin might want so much - and be serious about it. Unfortunately, he can." The frenzied lead-up to the Alaska summit has revealed that if Trump's position on a potential resolution of the conflict is still subject to change, Putin's is not. Alaska will offer them a meeting place; common ground at the negotiating table may be harder to find. Follow the BBC's coverage of the war in Ukraine (COLORADO SPRINGS) The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is seeking additional information, including potential unreported incidents involving a suspect who was recently arrested in a sexual exploitation investigation. On July 15, 2025, according to CSPD, police began an investigation into a report of Sexual Assault on a Child by One in a Position of Trust (SACPOT) and Sexual Exploitation of a Child. An investigation by detectives with the Crimes Against Children Unit (CAC) and investigators with the Forensic Interview Unit (FIU) resulted in probable cause to charge 64-year-old Stephen King Sr. for these offenses. Courtesy: CSPD, 64-year-old Stephen King Sr. On July 31, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for King, who was taken into custody without incident on Aug. 4 by the Fremont County Sheriffs Office at his home in Cotopaxi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives are actively seeking additional information, including potential unreported incidents involving King. If you, or someone you know, has been a victim of Stephen King Sr., please contact the Colorado Springs Police Department at (719) 444-7000 or the Pikes Peak Area Crimes Stoppers at (719) 634-STOP (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 FOX21 News Colorado. WETHERSFIELD, Conn. (WTNH) The Connecticut Department of Transportation reported Thursday an increase in bicyclist deaths and injuries this year. CTDOT data shows that as of Aug. 12, the state has had six bicyclist deaths. Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz (D) said that is more than triple the five-year average of having under two fatalities by this time of the year. The report showed a 200% increase in deaths, according to CTDOT. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man dies after falling from e-bike in East Haven The department said the current bicyclist-related deaths exceed the totals between 2021 and 2024 and matches the number of cyclist deaths reported throughout the entire year of 2020. Data also showed 21 serious injuries and 102 injuries involving cyclists across the state this year. State officials were reminding bicyclists to put their safety first. Obey all the traffic signals, ride as far to the right as is safe, scan the road look for debris, drains, slick or sandy conditions and most importantly dont assume that a motorist sees you, Bysiewicz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bysiewicz added that drivers also need to be aware of their surroundings, avoid distracted driving and give cyclists some space on the roads. New legislation will go into effect on Oct. 1, 2025 to help keep residents safe. The new bill increases from the age requiring all children to wear a helmet while riding a bicycle, electric bike, skateboards, nonmotorized or electric scooters and roller skates or blades from 16 to 18. The age requirement for all motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear a helmet will also increase from 18 to 21. A livestream of the event can be viewed below. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Carlos Linares reports that undefeated flyweight standout Billy Rodriguez, who defected from Cuba following his 2022 pro debut in Mexico, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Miramar, Florida after hitting a pole while driving this past Sunday. Rodriguez (6-0, 3 KO) was under I-220A status, referred to as Order of Release on Recognizance. Individuals with this documentation are on conditional parole, requiring regular check-ins with immigration authorities while they prepare their cases to achieve permanent legal residency. Per his spouse, Rodriguez was in the process of applying for political asylum. As part of its ongoing attempts to fill a 3,000-arrest-per-day quota demanded by White House adviser Stephen Miller, the Trump Administration has taken to arresting and detaining Cuban migrants during their check-ins. This follows an ongoing pattern of arresting immigrants who are fully complying with the conditions of their release or even finalizing the process of obtaining their green cards, including in courthouses after forcing immigration judges to drop their cases. This effort is being challenged in court, as is the revocation of Temporary Protected Status for refugees from war-torn countries like Haiti and Afghanistan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rodriguez has the backing of Cotto Promotions, but with the Administration actively looking to deny as many asylum applications as possible, overfilling detention centers to horrifying levels, and illegally resisting any and all attempts at oversight, the prognosis is grim. As Ive said before, no matter how little you want to think or talk about politics, it creeps into everything. With such a massive population of Hispanic boxers and an enforcement agency hell-bent on scapegoating as many immigrants as possible regardless of their legal status or criminality, this is going to get worse before it gets better SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) Springfield was filled with energy as thousands gathered for the African Community Festival 2025 to celebrate the vibrant cultures, music, fashion, arts, and cuisine of the African diaspora. Springfield hosts third annual African Community Festival Hosted by the Unity Hearts Foundation, the annual event reflects on the growth and vitality of the African community in western Massachusetts, fostering unity while showcasing diverse traditions from across Africa and the Caribbean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The festival featured live performances by a variety of artists: Zikina Music Band Kay Staley Damian Dollar Peter Life Sherine Khatoum Cultural Dance Troupe of the West Indies Na Oozey from Sierra Leone Each act brought an electrifying energy and richness to the stage. Returning emcee Efua and DJ Prince Paul kept the atmosphere lively and engaging throughout the day. Courtesy of Unity Hearts Foundation Courtesy of Unity Hearts Foundation Attendees enjoyed a fashion show, food sampling station, a variety of food vendors, and a vibrant marketplace. The Unity Heart Foundation also organized a backpack drive to equip local students with school supplies for the academic year. Representatives and participants hailed from countries including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Egypt Gambia Sierra Leone Liberia South Africa Ghana Nigeria Somalia Sudan Kenya Tanzania Jamaica Trinidad Barbados This festival is more than just music and food. its a celebration of unity, a bridge between cultures, and a space where our stories and traditions are honored, said Naefia Padi, Unity Hearts Foundation President. Courtesy of Unity Hearts Foundation Courtesy of Unity Hearts Foundation Courtesy of Unity Hearts Foundation Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Cumberland County child was found after a search Wednesday. The nine-year-old girl was found safe by Susquehanna Township Police and she was reunited with her guardian, Carlisle Borough Police said on Facebook. The girl, police said, was allegedly abducted by Sehighya Smith during a supervised visit from a facility in the 200 block of South Hanover Street. Smith is facing criminal charges, police said. No docket for this incident has been filed as of this writing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. NEED TO KNOW President Donald Trump announced a 30-day federalization of Washington, D.C., law enforcement on Aug. 11 The capital city has since been flooded by ICE agents, the National Guard and Homeland Security personnel, leading to protests and backlash from residents Trump has indicated that he may extend the takeover so that it's a long-term setup and use D.C. as a model for other U.S. cities Following President Donald Trump's temporary federalization of the police force in Washington, D.C., the city has become a chaotic scene. On Monday, Aug. 11, the president announced that he was seizing control of the Metropolitan Police Department and deploying the National Guard in the U.S. capital in order to fight crime and target the city's homeless population. He put Attorney General Pam Bondi in charge of the city police and warned he was ready to deploy other military forces "if needed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Today we're formally declaring a public safety emergency," Trump said in a press conference on Monday. The announcement has caused protests to crop up throughout the city, as residents march with signs decrying the federal takeover, slamming Trump's policies and accusing the administration of taking extreme action in an alleged effort to distract from the Epstein files. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Protestors speak at a rally outside of the AFL-CIO in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 11, 2025 Protestors speak at a rally outside of the AFL-CIO in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 11, 2025 D.C. citizens have also taken to social media to warn their fellow residents about immigration checkpoints throughout the city. One post on X showed a group of protestors heckling an ICE checkpoint that was stopping cars to investigate the drivers' citizenship status. The group of dissenters yelled "Get off our streets!" at the officers which included police, ICE and Homeland Security personnel and encouraged motorists to turn onto a different street to avoid the checkpoint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The official ICE account on X has celebrated its heightened presence in the city since even before Trump brought in the National Guard, sharing photos of officers stopping cars and arresting people on the street just before the president's Aug. 11 press conference. "ICE Homeland Security Investigations agents were out late into the night with our federal partners making D.C. SAFE again," the post read. "Drugs off the streets. Firearms removed. Criminals held accountable. When a city fails, we will answer the call." Tasos Katopodis/Getty Washington D.C. Metro Police officers arrest a driver at a roadside checkpoint on Aug. 13, 2025 Washington D.C. Metro Police officers arrest a driver at a roadside checkpoint on Aug. 13, 2025 Following one viral arrest, a man now faces a felony federal assault charge for allegedly throwing a Subway sandwich at a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent. The man, identified in court documents as Sean Charles Dunn, turned out to be an employee at the DOJ, working under the officials who currently control the D.C. police. Bondi posted on X about the arrest, writing, "If you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you. I just learned that this defendant worked at the Department of Justice NO LONGER. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf The newly federalized D.C. police have also announced an extension to the juvenile curfew zone in the city's Navy Yard neighborhood. Starting on Friday, Aug. 15, curfew will be enforced from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. nightly. At 11 p.m., the previously announced citywide curfew kicks in, and is in place until 6 a.m. the following day for everyone 17 years and younger. JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Juvenile curfew zone announced in the Navy Yard neighborhood of Washington, D.C., on Aug. 13, 2025 Juvenile curfew zone announced in the Navy Yard neighborhood of Washington, D.C., on Aug. 13, 2025 Despite the ongoing backlash from residents, the Trump administration has continued to say that things are going according to plan. On Thursday, Aug. 14, the White House shared photos of military police in Humvees taking to the D.C. streets with the caption, "REPORTING FOR DUTY. MAKE D.C. SAFE AGAIN." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of Defense also flaunted its daunting presence in the nation's capital, with a post that read, "President Trump activated the D.C. National Guard under Title 32 to assist Federal and Washington D.C. law enforcement within the nations capital. Safe to say: THE DOD HAS RESPONDED." The boastful posts come a day after Trump indicated that he planned to extend the initial 30-day takeover of D.C. police, as well as expand the crackdown to other U.S. cities. "We're going to need a crime bill... and it's going to pertain initially to D.C.," he said in the midst of announcing the 2025 Kennedy Center nominees. "We're going to use [D.C.] as a very positive example and we're going to be asking for extensions on that long-term." "That's going to serve as a beacon for New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and other places all over the country," Trump continued. "Our whole country is going to be so different and so great. It's going to be clean and safe and beautiful, and people are going to love our flag more than they've ever loved it. And we're going to do a great job." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The president also didn't seem concerned about checks and balances when it comes to his police and military takeover of U.S. cities, saying he was confident that the Republican majority in Congress would push through his plans. And, if not, Trump said, "If it's a national emergency, we can do it without Congress." Read the original article on People Cyberattacks on US schools, universities tripled since 2024 New data shows cyberattacks on U.S. schools and universities have tripled since last year. In our February investigation, 9 Investigates reported on an increase in cyberthreats on Central Florida schools between breaches at Sumter and Flagler county schools to scares in Brevard and Marion counties. According to new data from Check Point Software Technologies, the average number of weekly attacks in January 2024 stood at 1,176. By April 2025, that number had nearly tripled to 3,323. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 9 Investigates spoke to Check Points Dave Meister, who says their research team collected this data through their internal threat intelligence along with posts from ransomware groups on the dark web. Meister says hackers are targeting childrens information not only in hopes of schools paying a ransom. A lot of the time its about exfiltrating that data and then going after parents to say, I have pictures of your children, I have information about your children. If you dont pay me x amount of money. Im going to start to create deep fakes with pictures of you children, Meister said. Schools are easy targets because they hold sensitive records like Social Security numbers, medical records and discipline records that can be used as blackmail against parents and students. Check Point also points out schools budgets are stretched thin with cybersecurity often underfunded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that students are coming in with devices that may not have adequate software to be able to stop these attacks, Meister said. Emsisoft cyberthreat expert Luke Connolly found many attacks on U.S. schools trace back to four cybergangs. 9 Investigates found at least one group with Russian ties. Those ones are getting some traction. They have gained some expertise into how to get into schools, Connolly said. Mesiter says schools should prioritize cyberattack prevention over detection. He says schools should enforce multi-factor authentication and strong passwords across devices for faculty, staff, and students. He added parents shouldnt hesitate to ask their childs school how they are protecting sensitive data. Do you have a story for WFTVs 9 Investigators? Click the banner below to submit a tip. Cyprus is enduring a severe heatwave, with inland temperatures expected to reach up to 45 degrees Celsius on Thursday. On Wednesday, the weather station in the village of Lefkara, located about 20 kilometres from the coast, recorded an even higher reading of 46.1 degrees, state broadcaster RIK reported. The Cyprus Meteorological Department has issued an extreme high-temperature warning for both inland areas and higher mountain regions. Conditions are slightly more tolerable along the coast thanks to sea breezes, where highs are expected to be around 38 degrees. Temperatures are forecast to gradually ease from Friday, returning to seasonal averages of around 36 degrees by Sunday. WASHINGTON Police officers in Washington, D.C., can now notify federal immigration officials if they encounter immigrants living in the country illegally, possibly setting them up for arrest regardless of whether the individual was charged with a crime. Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith issued an executive order on Thursday allowing local police officers conducting traffic stops to inform Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents about immigrants lacking permanent legal status a marked departure from current city policy that limits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The order would also allow local officers to provide transportation for federal immigration agency employees and detained subjects, according to a copy of the order obtained by the Deseret News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The updated guidance provides a carveout for local police to cooperate with federal agencies after President Donald Trump signed an emergency order on Monday federalizing the D.C. police department and taking control of the citys public safety operations. But the police executive order upholds several restrictions currently in place for local officers. It states that officers cannot ask an individual their immigration status for the purpose of determining whether they have violated the civil immigration laws or to research the individuals immigration status through federal databases. Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents join Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers as they conduct traffic checks at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. | Alex Brandon Officers cannot detain individuals based solely on federal immigration warrants if the person would otherwise have been released after the encounter. After a release, officers would be prohibited from providing federal immigration agents with information related to the immigrant such as the date and time of their release, address, identifying information, photograph, or criminal case details. But the changes come as Trump administration officials have vowed to crack down on crime and illegal immigration in Washington, D.C. even going so far as to declare the citys sanctuary status as being revoked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C. under federal control is not going to be a sanctuary city, Tom Homan, who acts as the Trump administrations border czar, told Fox News on Wednesday. Hundreds of National Guard troops began arriving in Washington on Tuesday, with a total of 800 soldiers expected to patrol the city by next week. President Donald Trump took federal control of the city by invoking a rarely used statute that allows the president to oversee 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, crime rates in the city overall have gone down over the last year, according to statistics from the MPD. Violent crime, for example, has decreased by 26% compared to this time last year. Trump also announced that his administration would begin removing homeless people from their encampments across the city and take them elsewhere, although its not entirely clear where they will go. Were going to be removing homeless encampments from all over our parks, our beautiful, beautiful parks, which now a lot of people cant walk on, theyd be very, very dirty, Trump said. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program is returning to four school districts in Darke County this school year. Darke County Sheriff Mark Whittaker said this renewed initiative is a part of the county-wide effort to give students the knowledge, skills and confidence to make safe and responsible choices. Photo via DCSO. Pictured left to right: Deputy Kelly Moody, Deputy Alan Yount, Sheriff Mark Whittaker, Deputy Dan Stockslager, Deputy Greg Fourman. The D.A.R.E. program will be taught by deputies at the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ansonia Local Schools, Deputy Alan Yount. Franklin Monroe Local School District, Deputy Kelly Moody. Mississinawa Valley Schools, Deputy Greg Fourman Tri-Village School District, Deputy Dan Stockslager. These deputies are their schools Resource Officers and have been trained in the D.A.R.E. curriculum. It focuses on drug-use prevention, decision-making skills, conflict resolution and familiarizing students with law enforcement in a positive setting. Darke County Fair may end 100-year no-alcohol tradition; election soon These D.A.R.E. Deputies will be at the Darke County Fair on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. They will be on the midway near the Darke County Sheriffs building, at the north end of the Grandstand. They will have program promotional items for kids and teens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They will also be at the fairs Touch-a-Truck event on Thursday afternoon, in the track and Grandstand area. Finally, they will be midway on Friday, Aug. 22, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. to meet with students before the school year starts. Parents, guardians and community members are encouraged to meet with the deputies to learn more about School Resource Officers and D.A.R.E. Darke County K-8 students are eligible to sign up for a chance to win a new bicycle. To view the full 9-day fair schedule, 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. With Keir Starmer proving as unpopular and unpalatable to the Left as he is to the Right, Jeremy Corbyns new and as yet untitled political party joins Reform UK in presenting a very real threat to Labours chances of re-election in 2029. In this episode of The Daily T, Tim Stanley and Gordon Rayner talk to Ash Sarkar journalist, Corbyn-supporter and co-founder of Left-wing media organisation Novara Media about how that new party could form a potentially fatal electoral pact for Starmer by teaming up with the Greens in 2029. As well as her dissatisfaction at Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves, she also talks about how Reform have outflanked Labour on the Left with talk of nationalising utility providers like Thames Water, and why she previously underestimated Nigel Farage but is now taking him a lot more seriously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch episodes of The Daily T here. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. 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. Four Dallas ISD police officers have received Life Saving Awards for their heroic actions that prevented tragedies on district grounds. The department honored Officers Sergio Pacheco, Daniel Espinoza, Kimberly Gonzalez, and Sergeant Derrick Anderson at a back-to-school event. The recognitions highlight the critical role school police play in protecting students and community members beyond typical campus security duties. Officer Pacheco earned his award for actions in June when he spotted a vehicle driving the wrong way. The driver ran a stop sign and crashed into Pachecos patrol car before becoming unresponsive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pacheco immediately called for medical help. Emergency responders transported the driver to the hospital. His decisive actions exemplify outstanding law enforcement service, directly contributing to saving a life and possibly saving lives of others, said Albert Martinez, chief of police of the Dallas ISD Police Department. In July, officers Espinoza and Gonzalez, along with Sergeant Anderson, discovered an unconscious man who had allegedly overdosed on drugs. The officers successfully revived him and maintained scene safety until paramedics arrived. There is no doubt that these officers alertness, rapid intervention, and calm under pressure directly contributed to saving the life of this individual on this day, Martinez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The awards ceremony took place at Wilmer-Hutchins High School during the departments annual back-to-school kickoff. Chief Martinez used the occasion to announce new initiatives for the coming academic year. The department will launch a dedicated traffic unit to increase enforcement in school zones. All officers will also receive training and certification in mental health crisis response. You all do a great job serving our community and our schools, Martinez told his officers. I hope you got a lot of rest this summer, because its time to get back to work. Fifteen additional officers and staff members received commendations during the event. The list included detectives, patrol officers, campus safety officers, and emergency management personnel who demonstrated exceptional service. Rep. Mark Smith of Daniel Island talks to reporters during the first day of session in Columbia, S.C. on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (Photo by Travis Bell/STATEHOUSE CAROLINA/Special to the SC Daily Gazette) State Rep. Mark Smith officially launched his bid to represent South Carolinas coastal 1st Congressional District. The 55-year-old Daniel Island Republican held an announcement event Thursday evening at New Realm Brewery. Smith did not respond to messages from the SC Daily Gazette. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a campaign video released earlier in the day, Smith railed against do-nothing politicians and painted himself as a man that gets things done and who President Donald Trump can count on. Mark Smith is going to shake up Congress, the video voiceover announces. If elected, Smith would replace Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., who is one of five Republicans running for governor in 2026. Voters first elected Smith, CEO of McAlister-Smith Funeral Homes, in 2020 to the state House seat previously held by Mace. Before moving to Daniel Island and representing parts of Berkeley County in the Statehouse, he was a Mount Pleasant town councilman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But he grew up in rural South Carolina. The married father of three is a native of Bamberg. Smiths priorities, according to his campaign website, include combatting illegal immigration and foreign drug trafficking, cutting federal spending, cutting taxes and reducing regulations. In the campaign video, he touted his support for state income tax cuts and a special immigration enforcement unit at the State Law Enforcement Division. Smith was among supporters of a 2022 law that cut income tax rates and reduced state revenues by more than $1 billion. The law, which passed both chambers unanimously, was expected to be phased in over five years. Instead, legislators completed the phase-in early with the budget that took effect July 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was also one of 55 co-sponsors on the House GOPs historic tax cut plan, which is still pending at the Statehouse. Republicans, amid public outcry, revamped the original plan after an analysis showed 60% of tax filers would actually pay more in taxes. The new version reduces the number of tax brackets and lowers collections by $400 million in year one. Smith also voted in favor of a 2024 law that moved the states Illegal Immigration Enforcement Unit from the state Department of Public Safety to SLED. Gov. Henry McMaster started pushing for the change in 2017, shortly after he became governor. In addition to the move, the law reinforced a 2008 law requiring SLED to enter into an agreement with U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement to aid federal agents. SLED entered a new agreement with ICE in March that allows officers to question people on the street about their immigration status and possibly arrest them for deportation. In addition to SLED, 20 of the states 46 counties, as well as three towns, have some kind of agreement with federal immigration officials under whats known as the 287(g) program, according to a federal database. DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) A 32-year-old man, formerly of Danville and currently a registered sex offender, will be spending the next three decades behind bars after pleading guilty to child sex crimes. On Aug. 12, Lester Winters Jr. pleaded guilty to dissemination of child pornography by a sex offender a class X felony and was sentenced to 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections. He also pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography by a sex offender a class 1 felony and was sentenced to 10 years at IDOC. Man pleads guilty to attempted armed violence in Vermilion Co. Court Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These sentences are to be served consecutively, and the plea and sentencing hearing were presided over by Judge Karen Wall. During this case, the People presented that on April 10, 2024, Illinois State Police Zone 5 Criminal Investigations received a CyberTip report of a child pornographic video that had been uploaded to Google. Throughout the course of the investigation, law enforcement identified Winters as the user associated with the Google account and email address attached to the CyberTip. Following this, a forensic analysis of Winters cell phone subsequently revealed multiple images depicting nude minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Law enforcement determined that Winters not only possessed child pornographic material, but had also disseminated the pornographic material through an application on his phone. Child pornography is documented abuse and exploitation of real children, Vermilion County States Attorney Jacqueline Lacy said in a release Thursday morning. Every time these images are shared, the victim is re-victimized. Criminals who possess and distribute this material fuel a cycle of abuse. My office remains committed to prosecuting these criminals in order to protect the most vulnerable members of our community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. A Denver-based company proposing a $30 billion data center on land owned by the widow of NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt in rural Mooresville, North Carolina, will not move forward with the project, a city official and an engineer representing the company said Wednesday. The proposal had drawn intense community backlash, including from Earnhardts eldest son. For months, developers with Tract had said they wanted to build a data center campus in Mooresville, about 30 miles outside of Charlotte. Many residents pushed back against the proposal, citing concerns about the future facilitys water and electricity usage. Others viewed the project as an encroachment on the areas close-knit feel. Mooresville Mayor Chris Carney said in a Facebook post Wednesday afternoon that Tract developers had withdrawn their proposal. Dan Brewer, an engineer representing Tract, confirmed that he had withdrawn a request for a rezoning that was needed to move the project forward. The citys commissioners had been scheduled to vote on the rezoning next month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My client is Tract, I was instructed to withdraw it and thats what I did, Brewer said in a phone interview. Thats the only comment I have. Representatives for Tract, which had pitched the project as a boon for local tax revenue, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A Tract spokesperson said last week in a statement to The Charlotte Observer that the company was both disappointed and surprised by the mayors previous comments indicating he no longer supported the project. Earnhardt was killed in a crash during the 2001 Daytona 500. When he wasnt at the racetrack, he was an avid outdoorsman, and neighbors said he used the North Carolina property at the center of the recent battle for hunting and fishing. Teresa Earnhardt, who married Dale Earnhardt in 1982, began asking city officials to rezone 400 acres of that land for a data center last fall. She didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kerry Earnhardt, Dale Earnhardts eldest son, blasted efforts to rezone the property on social media recently, saying his father would be livid for his name to be associated with the project. At an Aug. 4 meeting, roughly 200 residents showed up, many in protest of the pending rezoning. Several of them, including Kerry Earnhardts wife, Rene, urged commissioners to halt the project. Kerry and Rene Earnhardt posted a YouTube video Wednesday detailing their opposition to the data center. Kerry Earnhardt recalled dove hunting with his father on the property, and added that he felt compelled to speak up on behalf of his neighbors. The bottom line is this project does not belong where theyre trying to put it, he said. While the White House embraces data centers as critical infrastructure in the global artificial intelligence race, in a growing number of communities theyre not welcome. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesdays announcement makes Mooresville the latest city where developers have either backed off their plans for a data center, or had their plans for a data center voted down by local leaders amid public backlash. Last week, officials in Tucson, Arizona, rejected a proposed Amazon data center. Kerry Pennell, who ordered yard signs for the campaign opposing the Mooresville project, cheered Wednesdays withdrawal. AI and data centers are an important part of the world we live in today, but we really need to figure out their proper place in this country, she said. We cant just take rural residential land and destroy it forever. Late last week, Carney, the mayor, cast doubts on the projects prospects because Tract hadnt said which tech company would ultimately use the facility once it was built. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no request to postpone this is a full withdrawal, Carney wrote on Facebook on Wednesday. The mayor added that there are no other active requests for a data center in Mooresville. For Donna Jones, who lives about a half mile from the proposed Mooresville site, Wednesdays retreat felt like a victory. But shes remaining vigilant and urges her neighbors to hold onto their anti-data center lawn signs in the event that something else comes along. You just never know what theyre going to plan for the future, she said. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Aug. 14MITCHELL The following cases were among those heard Tuesday, August 13, during a circuit court session at the Davison County Public Safety Center, with Judge Chris Giles presiding: * Devin Burke, 31, of Sioux City, made his initial court appearance. The case was continued for four weeks to allow him time to retain legal counsel. Burke is facing two Class 6 felonies for second degree eluding and simple assault on a law enforcement officer. He is also charged with obstructing police, a Class 1 misdemeanor, along with careless driving and speeding, both Class 2 misdemeanors.. * Jesus Garcia, 35, of Mitchell, appeared in court for a motions hearing regarding the withdrawal of his current counsel. His case was continued for two weeks to give him time to hire a new attorney. Garcia is facing a probation violation related to a previous sentence for first-offense driving under the influence and aggravated eluding. This is his second probation violation, with the first occurring in 2024. He is also facing new charges, including hit and run causing death or injury, a Class 6 felony, as well as driving with a suspended license and failing to yield, both Class 2 misdemeanors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Eric Opperman, 48, of Mitchell, appeared in court for a motions hearing and an initial appearance on new charges. His current attorney withdrew from the case, citing a conflict of interest. The case was continued for two weeks. Opperman is facing five counts of aggravated incest and one count of fourth-degree rape, all Class 3 felonies; 12 counts of first-degree rape, a Class C felony; two counts of manufacturing child sexual abuse material, Class 2 felonies; and 24 counts of possession of child sexual abuse material, Class 4 felonies. He is also now facing charges of violating a no contact order, a Class 1 misdemeanor, and witness tampering, a Class 4 felony. * Travis Auch, 41, of Mitchell, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with a prior felony drug conviction, a Class 6 felony, and to first-offense DUI, a Class 1 misdemeanor. As part of a plea agreement, charges of possessing a loaded firearm while intoxicated, a Class 1 misdemeanor, and speeding, a Class 2 misdemeanor, were dismissed. Auch was sentenced to two years in prison for the felony, with all time suspended. He was fined $650 and placed on two years of probation. For the DUI, he received a suspended imposition of sentence and was fined $500. * Eric Aragon, 49, of Mitchell, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine, a Class 5 felony. As part of a plea agreement, charges of possessing two ounces or less of marijuana, a Class 1 misdemeanor, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class 2 misdemeanor, were dismissed. He received a suspended imposition of sentence and was placed on two years of probation. He was also fined $750. * Conner Drapeau, 22, of Mitchell, pleaded not guilty to two counts of grand theft involving amounts between $1,000 and $2,500, both Class 6 felonies, and to second-degree escape from a prison, a Class 5 felony. He requested a bond reduction, which the court denied. A jury trial is scheduled for December. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Joseph Rongstad, 43, of Watson, Minnesota, appeared in court for a status hearing, during which his jury trial was rescheduled for December. He is facing charges of possession of meth, a Class 5 felony; possession of two ounces or less of marijuana, a Class 1 misdemeanor; and failure to stop and possession of drug paraphernalia, both Class 2 misdemeanors. * Trevin Gardner, 19, of Mitchell, was sentenced for a probation violation he admitted to last month. His two-year prison sentence remains suspended, and he was ordered to serve three years of probation. He has been accepted into the James Valley Drug and DUI Court program, which he is required to successfully complete as part of his probation. * Autumn Neiman, 27, of Mitchell, made an initial appearance on a probation violation. She has applied for a court-appointed attorney, and her case was continued for four weeks. * Brandon Kendall, 24, of Mitchell, appeared in court for a status hearing on a probation violation. His case was continued for four weeks due to a pending case in Brookings County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Michael Vargas, 58, of Mitchell, pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a Class 3 felony. He also faces charges of eluding, a Class 1 misdemeanor, and driving with a suspended license, improper plates, and failure to stop, all Class 2 misdemeanors. He requested a personal recognizance bond, which the court granted. A jury trial is scheduled for December. * Harley Miller, 32, of Mitchell, appeared in court for a status hearing where he requested a new attorney and asked for a furlough to attend treatment. He is facing a Class 2 felony charge of first-degree burglary and a Class 1 misdemeanor charge of simple assault causing bodily injury. * Roberta Woodside, 47, of Mitchell, pleaded not guilty to possession of meth, a Class 5 felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class 2 misdemeanor. A jury trial is scheduled for December. * Joe Holmes III, 27, of La Mesa, California, requested a continuance to allow time to resolve issues with his attorney. The court granted the continuance and rescheduled the case for four weeks. He is facing multiple charges, including manufacturing and distribution of drugs, a Class 4 felony; possession of THC, a Class 5 felony; possession with intent to distribute between one ounce and one pound of marijuana, a Class 5 felony; possession of between two ounces and half a pound of marijuana, a Class 6 felony; and possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class 2 misdemeanor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Joshua Wiltz, 20, from Beaverton, Oregon, pleaded guilty to possession of two ounces or less of marijuana, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Under a plea agreement, charges for possession of psilocybin mushrooms, a Class 5 felony, and possession of drug paraphernalia were dismissed. Wiltz was sentenced to 60 days in jail, with credit for one day served and 59 days suspended. Additionally, he was ordered to pay a $350 fine. * No, the TikTok video showing a trainer named Jessica Radcliffe dying in the mouth of an orca killer whale is not real. It appears to be AI. However, there was a real marine trainer who died after an attack by an orca at SeaWorld. Her name was Dawn Brancheau. There does not appear to really be a trainer named Jessica Radcliffe. What happened to Brancheau, though, is just as horrific as the fake video, which circulated widely on social media in August 2025. Dawn Brancheau Was Killed by a Killer Orca Named Tilikum A report from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Commission outlines exactly what happened to Brancheau. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 24, 2010, SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau "was interacting with Tilikum, a 29-year-old male killer whale, in a pool at Shamu Stadium," the report says. "Ms. Brancheau reclined on a platform located just a few inches below the surface of the water. Tilikum was supposed to mimic her behavior by rolling over onto his back. Instead, Tilikum grabbed Ms. Brancheau and pulled her off the platform and into the pool. Ms. Brancheau died as a result of Tilikum's actions," the report says. Dawn Brancheau's Autopsy Report Says She Died of Drowning & 'Traumatic Injuries' This footage from 2010 shows SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau's final moments alive before she was pulled into the jaws of an orca named Tilikum and tragically killed. Her body was thrashed about over the course of 45 minutes while the horrified crowd helplessly looked on. The pic.twitter.com/29ZSaWjUoG Morbid Knowledge (@Morbidful) May 16, 2024 The autopsy report for Brancheau details her extensive injuries, saying she drowned and died of traumatic injuries, including dislocated extremities, a fractured jaw and other horrific wounds. It notes that Brancheau was in the pool during the attack for 45 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, it wasn't the first death associated with Tilikum, "a killer whale with known aggressive tendencies and who was involved in the 1991 death of a whale trainer at a marine park in Vancouver, British Columbia," the report says. A video emerged showing Brancheau interacting with the killer whale before it killed her. The U.S. government issued three citations against SeaWorld in Orlando as a result of the trainer's death. One of the citations was for allegedly "failing to equip two stairways with standard stair railings on each side of the stairways," the report says. Two citations accused SeaWorld of "exposing animal trainers to struck-by and drowning hazards when working with killer whales during performances." SeaWorld denied the accusations. Tilikum Weighed 12,000 Pounds & May Have Grabbed Dawn Brancheau's Ponytail Killer whale "Tilikum" appears during its performance in its show "Believe" at Sea World. Gerardo Mora/Getty Images According to the report, the orca was the park's star attraction and weighed "approximately 12,000 pounds" and was 22 feet long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SeaWorld "uses a technique called water desensitization, or de-sense, to acclimate the killer whales to the trainers' presence in the pools with them," the report said. There was some debate about whether the orca grabbed Brancheau by her arm or ponytail. She performed a "behavior called a layout mimic. She lay on her back, parallel to Tilikum, with her head near his head. Tilikum was supposed to mimic Ms. Brancheau and roll onto his back," the report says. Instead, Tilikum "grabbed Brancheau and pulled her into the pool." SeaWorld "repeatedly states in its post-hearing brief that Tilikum grabbed Ms. Brancheau by her ponytail. This was not established as a fact at the hearing, and it is in dispute," the report continued. "One witness, spotter John Topoleski, testified he saw Ms. Brancheau get up on her knees and put her hands to her ponytail: 'She could not break free. She had both hands on her ponytail being pulled toward the water,' he said." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another witness, however, "testified Tilikum grabbed Ms. Brancheau by her arm and not her hair," the report adds. Trainers ignited a "call-back tone" and slapped the water in an attempt to get Tilikum to stop the attack, but it didn't work. The whale died in 2017, according to BBC. Two Other Deaths Were Associated With the Killer Orca Killer whale "Tilikum" (back) appears during its performance in its show "Believe" at Sea World. Gerardo Mora/Getty Images According to the BBC, two other deaths were associated with Tilikum. In the Canadian death in 1991, "Tilikum and two other whales had prevented a trainer from leaving their tank after she fell in," BBC reported. And, while the whale was at SeaWorld Orlando, a man snuck into the park at night in 1999 and "was found dead alongside the whale the next day," according to BBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He died of hypothermia, but it appeared Tilikum "had bitten the man and torn off his trunks," according to BBC. Related: Was Trainer 'Jessica Radcliffe' Killed in an Orca Whale Attack? The Video Is Fake Dawn Brancheau: Real Story of SeaWorld Trainer Killed by Orca Killer Whale first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025 Kroger pharmacist Megan Alt was honored with the All Safe Angle Award after saving two lives in one day at the Riverside location. Alt, who works at the Kroger on Woodman Avenue in Riverside, responded to two separate emergencies involving customers in distress. She administered an EpiPen to a person experiencing an allergic reaction and later used Narcan to assist another individual in the store restroom. I am glad that I was able to be the person at the right place at the right time, said Dr. Megan Alt, reflecting on her actions that day. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jenifer Moore, a Kroger spokesperson, noted that the award is for employees who go above and beyond to help customers, highlighting Alts leadership and respect among her team. The first incident occurred when a customer came through the drive-thru struggling to breathe while attempting to refill an EpiPen prescription. Alt quickly grabbed an EpiPen and rushed outside to assist, setting off alarms in the process. A second emergency happened when a security guard told Alt that a woman was not responding in the bathroom. Alt checked the woman and realized she was barely breathing. She then instructed a technician to retrieve Narcan after assessing the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alt emphasized that her actions were a result of her training and the support of her colleagues. The people around me were really the ones who helped me be able to, like, confidently do it. So yes, it was a team effort, she said. Megan Alts quick thinking and decisive actions not only saved lives but also earned her the distinction of being the third recipient of the All Safe Angle Award in the Dayton Cincinnati area. Her story underscores the importance of preparedness and teamwork in emergencies. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A fugitive known as Nicholas Rossi, who is accused of faking his death and fleeing the country, has been convicted. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] An eight-person jury in Salt Lake County, Utah, found Rossi guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial, the Associated Press reported. He will be sentenced on Oct. 20 and is set to stand trial in September on another rape charge in Utah County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, was convicted of sexually assaulting a Sinclair Community College student in 2008. TRENDING STORIES: The American fugitive grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and had returned to the state before allegedly faking his death and fleeing the country. An obituary published online claimed Rossi died Feb. 29, 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But state police and his former foster family questioned whether he was dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi was arrested in Scotland the following year after he was recognized at a Glasgow hospital while receiving treatment for COVID-19. He insisted he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who had never traveled to the U.S. After a lengthy court battle, an Edinburgh judge ruled in that the extradition could move forward. He called Rossi as dishonest and deceitful as he is evasive and manipulative. Rossi lost an appeal and was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals Service. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] A man has been arrested after he threw a sandwich at a federal officer patrolling in Washington, D.C., and called him a fascist, police say. Late Sunday night, Sean Charles Dunn is accused of approaching a group of law enforcement officers and shouting at Customs and Border Protection Agent Gregory Lairmore, according to court documents obtained byThe Independent. Dunn pointed his finger and yelled, F*** you! You f***ing fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city! as he stood within inches of Lairmore, the documents claim. Also among the group were other federal agents and a Metro Transit Police detective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a few minutes, Dunn crossed the street while he continued to yell obscenities at Lairmore, police say. He then came back to forcefully throw a sub-style sandwich at Lairmore, according to the documents, which cited an Instagram video taken by an onlooker. A man has been arrested after he threw a sandwich at a federal officer patrolling in Washington, D.C., and called him a 'fascist,' police say (U.S. District Court for D.C.) Sean Charles Dunn was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States (U.S. District Court for D.C.) Dunn tried to run away, but he was arrested. He later admitted to police, I did it. I threw a sandwich, per the documents. The man was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States. A day after Dunns arrest, President Donald Trump announced he was placing the D.C. police department under direct federal control and deploying the National Guard to rescue our nations capital from crime, bloodshed, bedlam, and squalor, and worse, despite crime figures declining since 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National Guard troops started hitting D.C. streets from Tuesday evening, and over the coming days, there will be between 100 and 200 soldiers out patrolling at any given time, The New York Times reported, citing Army spokesman Colonel Dave Butler. In total, about 800 troops are expected to be deployed. There have been at least 66 arrests made since the federal takeover began, according to the Trump administration. The man who went viral for throwing his submarine sandwich at a federal officer reportedly worked at the Justice Department and has now lost his job, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced. In a viral video from Sunday, a pink-shirted man was filmed shouting at a Customs and Border Protection officer in northwest Washington, D.C. The man then quickly wound up his arm and lobbed his sandwich at the officer before taking off running. Related: Ex-Superman Actor Dean Cain Crashes Out When Grilled About Joining ICE Footage showed the officer hit by the sandwich and several others chasing the pink-shirted man, who was later revealed to be an international affairs specialist in the DOJs criminal division, The Washington Post reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just learned that this defendant worked at the Department of Justice NO LONGER, Bondi wrote on X on Thursday while reposting an article from the New York Post. This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ, she wrote. You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement. The news illuminates not just the discord between the White House and career federal employees following the Trump administrations far-reaching job cuts, but how Washington locals are reacting to President Donald Trumps takeover of the capital. WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 10: A man, who was later arrested. for assaulting law enforcement with a sandwich, interacts with Border Patrol and FBI agents along the U Street corridor on August 10, 2025, in Washington, DC. U.S. President Donald Trump ordered an increased presence of federal law enforcement to Washington, DC in an effort to curb crime. (Photo by Andrew Leyden/Getty Images) Andrew Leyden via Getty Images A court document obtained by HuffPost identified the sandwich-thrower as Sean Charles Dunn, 37, and the agent he hit as Gregory Lairmore. The document said that Dunn told the Metropolitan Police Department, I did it. I threw a sandwich. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also claims that he shouted, Fuck you! You fucking fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city! for several minutes prior to lobbing his meal at them. Dunn was arrested and charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding officers. The charge carries a maximum penalty of a year in jail, along with fines. Dunns charges come just after President Donald Trump, a convicted felon, mobilized hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington, claiming he intended to reduce crime in the district. Trump has also invoked the districts Home Rule Act to take control over its police force. The president, who pardoned hundreds of Jan. 6 rioters, has insisted that crime in the city is growing despite data showing the opposite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro appeared to use Dunns arrest as a warning to other protesters, who have already begun organizing against the Trump administrations agenda. He doesnt think its funny today, because we charged him with a felony, assault on a police officer, Pirro said in a video posted to X. And were going to back the police to the hilt. Related... Read the original on HuffPost NEW YORK (AP) As National Guard troops deploy across her city as part of President Donald Trump's efforts to clamp down on crime, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser is responding with relative restraint. She's called Donald Trump's takeover of the city's police department and his decision to activate 800 members of the guard unsettling and unprecedented and gone as far as to cast his efforts as part of an authoritarian push. But Bowser has so far avoided the kind of biting rhetoric and personal attacks typical of other high-profile Democratic leaders, despite the unprecedented incursion into her city. Instead, she is cooperating with the administration's efforts, including having city workers clear homeless encampments and work more closely with federal immigration agents, as Trump has demanded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While this action today is unsettling and unprecedented, I cant say that, given some of the rhetoric of the past, that were totally surprised, Bowser told reporters at a press conference responding to the efforts. She even suggested the surge in resources might benefit the city. The fact that we have more law enforcement and presence in neighborhoods, that may be positive, she said. Bowser argued her hands were largely tied, noting that limited home rule allows the federal government to intrude on our autonomy in many ways, and defended her approach. 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, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The approach underscores the reality of Washington's precarious position under the thumb of the federal government. Trump has repeatedly threatened an outright takeover of the overwhelmingly Democratic city, which is granted autonomy through a limited home rule agreement passed in 1973 that could be repealed by Congress. Republicans, who control both chambers, have already frozen more than $1 billion in local spending, slashing the city's budget. That puts her in a very different position from figures such as California Gov. Gavin Newsom or Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Democrats whose states depend on the federal government for disaster relief and other funding, but who have nonetheless relentlessly attacked the current administration as they lay the groundwork for potential 2028 presidential runs. Those efforts come amid deep frustrations from Democratic voters that their party has not been nearly aggressive enough in its efforts to counter Trump's actions. Unfortunately, she is in a very vulnerable position, said Democratic strategist Nina Smith. This is the sort of thing that can happen when you dont have the powers that come with being a state. So thats what were seeing right now, the mayor trying to navigate a very tough administration. Because this administration has shown no restraint when it comes to any kind of constitutional barriers or norms. Working together Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The impact on the city has been swift. On Wednesday, agents from the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with members of the National Guard, joined Metropolitan Police Department officers on patrol across city neighborhoods, drawing protests from angry residents. And on Thursday, city workers began clearing homeless encampments a move Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Wayne Turnage said was taken after his office was notified by the National Park Service that federal agents would begin closing all encampments in the city, both on federal and District lands. He said that since the city has more social services resources than the federal government, he felt it was better for the city to do the job the way it should be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Closing encampments is a very, very complex process, he said. Were dealing with human beings who, in many cases, have been marginalized. Their lives are being disrupted. And so we have put a process in place that we think respects that. The city's police chief also ordered an increase in cooperation between local officers and federal immigration agents. An Executive Order signed Thursday establishes that MPD officers may now share information with immigration agencies about people not in custody such as someone pulled over in a traffic stop or checkpoint. Bowser, meanwhile, was out of town Thursday in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. According to the mayor's office, she had a family commitment, and will return to Washington on Friday afternoon. A change from Trump's first term Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bowser's approach marks a departure from Trumps first term, when she was far more antagonistic toward the president. Then, she routinely clashed with the administration, including having city workers paint giant yellow letters spelling out Black Lives Matter on a street near the White House during the George Floyd protests in 2020. This time around, Bowser took a different tack from the start. She flew to Florida to meet with Trump at Mar-a-Lago after he won the election and has worked to avoid conflict and downplay points of contention, including tearing up the Black Lives Matter letters after he returned to Washington in response to pressure from Republicans in Congress. The change reflects the new political dynamics at play, with Republicans in control of Congress and an emboldened Trump who has made clear he is willing to exert maximum power and push boundaries in unprecedented ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C. Councilmember Christina Henderson said she understands Bowsers position, and largely agrees with her conclusion that a legal challenge to Trump's moves would be a long shot. Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act in his executive order, declaring a crime emergency so his administration could take over the citys police force. The statue limits that control to 30 days unless he gets approval from Congress. The challenge would be on the question of 'Is this actually an emergency?' said Henderson, a former congressional staffer. Thats really the only part you could challenge. Henderson believes the city would face dim prospects in a court fight, but thinks the D.C. government should challenge anyway, just on the basis of precedent. Trump told reporters Wednesday that he believes he can extend the 30-day deadline by declaring a national emergency, but said, We expect to be before Congress very quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were gonna be asking for extensions on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days, he said. Were gonna do this very quickly. But were gonna want extensions. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will. The D.C. mayor has limited legal options As mayor of the District of Columbia, Bowser has a very different relationship with the president and federal government than other mayors or governors. The city is home to thousands of federal workers, and the mass layoffs under DOGE have already had a major impact on the citys economy but it has limited legal recourse to fight back. Bowsers response is a reflection of the reality of the situation, according to a person familiar with her thinking. Her strategy has been to focus on finding areas where she and the new administration can work together on shared priorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For now, Bowser appears set to stick with her approach, saying Wednesday that she is focused on making sure the federal surge is useful to us. During a Wednesday morning interview with Fox 5, she and the city's police chief said an influx of federal agents linked to Trumps takeover would improve public safety, with more officers on patrol. Police chief Pamela Smith said the citys police department is short almost 800 officers, so the extra police presence is clearly going to impact us in a positive way. But Nina Smith, the Democratic strategist, said she believes Bowser needs a course correction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How many times is it going to take before she realizes this is not someone who has got the best interests of the city at heart? she asked. I think there may need to be time for her to get tough and push back. ___ Associated Press writers Ashraf Khalil and Will Weissert in Washington contributed to this report. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) In an Executive Order obtained by DC News Now on Thursday, D.C. Police Chief Pamela Smith made changes to the departments procedures regarding officers cooperation with immigration enforcement authorities. The changes permit more cooperation between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the District police. This comes days after President Donald Trump federalized the police department, initiating a takeover of D.C. police operations for 30 days. Now, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is able to share information about people who are not in its custody, such as those pulled over during traffic stops. Police may also provide transportation for federal immigration agency employees and detained individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DC residents protest as White House says federal agents will be on patrol 24/7 In short, the order permits MPD to cooperate with ICE in ways it previously could not. Immigration Enforcement EXECUTIVE ORDER Download 32BJ SEIU Executive Vice President and Latino Caucus Chair Jaime Contreras condemned the order. It should horrify everyone that D.C.s Police Chief has just laid out the welcoming mat for the Trump Administration to continue its wave of terror throughout our city, he said. The very institution that is supposed to keep District residents safe is now allowing ICE to jeopardize the safety and lives of hardworking immigrants and their families. Their complicity is dangerous enough, but helping to enforce Trumps tactics and procedures are a violation of the values of D.C. residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 32BJ SEIU is a property service workers union with over 21,000 members in the DMV. D.C. needs a Chief who will not cave to this administrations fear tactics aimed at silencing anyone who speaks out against injustice. We call for an immediate end to these rogue attacks that deny basic due process, separates families and wrongly deports hard-working immigrants and their families, Contreras continued. Other regulations regarding the agencies overlap remain in place, the order noted. MPD members are not permitted to search for a persons immigration status or enforce civil immigration laws. They also cannot arrest people based solely on federal immigration warrants or detainers. The new agreement comes one day after possibly the most visible display of federal immigration officers in the District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesday night on 14th Street NW, agents from HSI and ERO were seen alongside MPD during a traffic safety checkpoint. According to DC police, only one arrest was made (for No Permit and Counterfeit Tags). 38 Notices of Infraction were issued. 344 vehicles passed through, 28 were stopped. This is all kind of a show of force, we believe, to intimidate the broader population of DC, said immigration attorney David Secor. Immigrants and citizens alike. Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is asking for the publics help in identifying and locating a suspect in a stabbing. MPD said that on Aug. 7, around 5:35 p.m., the victim and the suspect were involved in a fight in the 1100 block of 7th St. NW. Police said that during the altercation, the suspect stabbed the victim before running away. Woman shot in Northeast DC: MPD investigating Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment. Police said they are expected to survive. Anyone with any information about this suspect or this incident is asked to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Federal law enforcement officers in Washington were heckled Wednesday as tensions rise in the nations capital over President Trumps moves to take over the local police force. A group of protestors near the 14th Street NW corridor, where the agents established a vehicle checkpoint, shouted out or held up signs with phrases such as Go home, fascists and Get off our streets, The Associated Press reported. The group also encouraged drivers to take other routes to avoid the officers, according to the news wire. National Guard vehicles were also spotted near the National Mall early Thursday, according to NewsNations Cameron Congdon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump announced Monday his administration would take federal control of Washingtons police force, citing out-of-control crime and violence in the city. The president also deployed hundreds of National Guard service members to the district a day later to assist with patrolling the streets. On Wednesday, Trump signaled he would go before Congress to ask for an extension on his federal takeover. Under Washingtons Home Rule Act, the president can only take authority over the local police department for up to 30 days without the approval of lawmakers. And were going to be asking for an extension on that, long-term extensions, because you cant have 30 days. Thirty days is, thats, by the time you do it were going to have this in good shape, he said, adding, Were going to do this very quickly, but were going to want extensions. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will. But I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously, the president added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) pushed back on the sentiment, arguing that Democrats would not go along with Trumps request. No fing way, Schumer told podcaster Aaron Parnas. 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, he added. Other Democrats, including local authorities, have also criticized the administrations efforts as unprecedented and unnecessary, citing data showing that crime in the district is declining. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. National Guard troops have begun 24-hour operations around Washington, D.C., as of Thursday morning, according to a Department of Defense official. It's part of President Donald Trump's plan to address crime in Washington by taking over the city's police department and deploying the National Guard troops. Thursday's National Guard presence in Washington included one small unit deployed to both Union Station and the National Mall early in the morning, according to a spokesperson for joint task force behind the operation. The idea is that residents and tourists would awake Thursday morning to the sight of military presence, according to a person familiar with the effort. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: A National Guard vehicle is parked near the Lincoln Memorial, August 14, 2025 in Washington. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: Members of the National Guard stand by at Union Station, August 14, 2025 in Washington. J. Scott Applewhite/AP - PHOTO: National Guard personnel keep watch as travelers arrive at the entrance to Union Station near the Capitol, in Washington, Aug. 14, 2025. MORE: Trump to seek 'long-term' extension of federal control of DC police Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, some National Guard troops patrolled along the National Mall -- a relatively safe and quiet stretch of Washington known for museums, monuments and hot dog vendors serving tourists. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents detain a person at a checkpoint as they join Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers to conduct traffic checks along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Guard members on patrol are not carrying weapons as of now, and they will not have the weapons in their vehicles, according to two defense officials. A White House official told ABC News that overnight Wednesday into Thursday, the multi-agency federal task force made 45 arrests -- 29 of which were immigration-related arrests. Law enforcement teams arrested people on a variety of charges including first and second degree assault, controlled substance possession and distribution, and carrying a concealed weapon, the White House official said. FBI Director Kash Patel posted on X that overnight Wednesday into Thursday, the FBI and law enforcement partners in Washington contributed to the 45 arrests with 16 arrests "tied to the violent crime surge" and seized three firearms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Your FBI will make DC Safe Again," Patel wrote. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images - PHOTO: Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Park Police officers detain a person on the National Mall, August 12, 2025 in Washington. Law enforcement agents conducted a traffic safety compliance checkpoint on busy 14th Street in Northwest Washington Wednesday night, which led to one arrest. A group of protesters spoke out against the checkpoint, shouting at the law enforcement officers, according to video from Washington's ABC station, WJLA. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Residents of the area yell at agents of the Department of Homeland Security during traffic checks at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images - PHOTO: FBI agents walk down Florida Ave between 14th street NW and 13th street NW, August 13, 2025 in Washington. Jose Luis Magana/AP - PHOTO: Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents join Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers as they conduct traffic checks at a checkpoint along 14th Street in northwest Washington, Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Army officials said their mission was to aid law enforcement with logistics support, transportation and administration duties, as well as being visible around the Mall. "That's part of our assignment -- to go to the national monuments and be present," Col. Dave Butler, an Army spokesperson, told ABC News on Tuesday. MORE: National Guard troops told to maintain presence near National Mall as part of Trump's anti-crime mission Trump announced Monday that he planned to mobilize 800 National Guard troops to address what he considered "out of control" crime in the city, as well as taking over control of the Metropolitan Police Department. Trump has made claims about rampant violent crime in Washington, which D.C. police statistics show is actually decreasing. Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said the city has spent the last two years driving down violent crime -- "driving it down to a 30 year low, in fact," she told MSNBC on Sunday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is true that we had a terrible spike in crime in 2023, but this is not 2023, this is 2025 and we've done that by working with the community, working with the police, working with our prosecutors, and, in fact, working with the federal government," Bowser told MSNBC. Defense officials said the joint task force, led by Army Col. Larry Doane, will run the operation. 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. The task force includes 800 activated National Guard members, defense officials said. 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. Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson on Thursday said the 800 National Guard troops will remain "until law and order has been restored." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They will remain until law and order has been restored in the District as determined by the president, standing as the gatekeepers of our great nation's capital," she said. The task force overseeing the activated Guard troops will operate similarly to how the D.C. Guard has handled inaugurations or responding to crises, as it did during the Jan. 6 riots. The National Park Service will play a considerable role because of its oversight of the National Mall, officials said. ABC News' Michelle Stoddart, Kelsey Walsh and Lalee Ibssa contributed to this report. The Brief An 18-year-old is charged with intoxication manslaughter after a fatal early morning crash in Garland, Texas. The driver of a Nissan SUV was killed in the fiery collision at the intersection of North Garland Avenue and Kingsley Road. The victim's identity has not yet been released, as police are working to notify their family. GARLAND, Texas - Garland police tell me they are still working to identify the male victim and then notify the victim's family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives say two 18-year-olds were in the black Cadillac that caused this deadly crash. What we know At the intersection of North Garland Avenue and Kingsley Road, a Nissan SUV was on fire in the grass. The Nissan was unrecognizable and towed away once the sun came up. 18-year-old Alan Ernaldo Marmol Melendez now sits in the Garland jail charged with intoxication manslaughter. Alan Ernaldo Marmol Melendez | Courtesy: Garland Jail Garland police say Melendez was behind the wheel of this crashed out black Cadillac SUV. Investigators determined that just after 2:30 am, the Cadillac was traveling at a high rate of speed northbound when it struck the Nissan traveling eastbound through the intersection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance video shows the Nissan bursting into flames. Plumes of smoke are seen as the Nissan stops near the railroad tracks. Its driver was pronounced dead on scene. In the Cadillac, Melendez and his passenger, another 18-year-old, had minor injuries. Melendez was arrested. What they're saying "The speed at which the Cadillac was traveling caused the Cadillac to go another 500 feet beyond the intersection after the crash occurred," said Lt. Pedro Barineau of the Garland Police Department. "The person, based on the totality of the circumstances, led our officers to believe he was intoxicated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A loud collision caused Becca Wilson to bolt out of her Garland home early Wednesday morning. "It was loud. I heard screeching. Brakes eeeeeerrr," said Wilson. "Matter of fact, it was making explosion noises, like the pop and crackle and the tires exploded." Wilson left troubled and terrified, standing at the intersection she passes every day. "And then I worry about my husband because he gets up and goes to work at 430 in the morning and there are people out there drinking and driving." What's next Back in February, we covered a crash near that same intersection and an 18-year-old was killed. Police say that crash impairment was also a contributing factor. The Source Information in this article was provided by the Garland Police Department. In 1988, a civil rights movement led to significant change. However, its not discussed or even taught until now. AppleTV+s Deaf President Now! recalls how, in 1988, students at Gallaudet University protested for one week until they finally elected the first deaf president to run the university after 125 years of never having a deaf president. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nyle DiMarco, the films co-director and co-producer, spoke through an interpreter and said, Throughout history, you can see that deaf and disabled stories really have been left out of the textbooks. There are so many moments throughout our history that you can see deaf and disabled people have really shaped world history overall. He went on to say, I am actually from a fourth-generation deaf family. So I have two brothers, two parents, grandparents, and even my great-grandparents are all deaf. And they passed not just this story down, but so many others really hand to hand like an oral history, because it is often left out of mainstream storytelling. DiMarco learned very quickly about other civil rights movement, but not this. It was something he found telling. I realized I was different, where my people didnt have equal footing in society and werent seen as equal. And so he waited 35 years for this story to be told. Co-director and co-producer Davis Guggenheim, whose credits include He Named Me Malala and Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie, was a history major but didnt know anything about the movement. That is, until DiMarco brought it to him. Its one of these cases where four young people in a matter of days become leaders. They dont get along. They figure it out, and they change the way America looks at the world. Its quite an extraordinary story and a real gift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DiMarco was a champion of this, and Guggenheim was more than happy to jump on board. Before DiMarco even brought it to Guggenheim, the idea was that it would be a scripted project. It was Guggenheim who suggested this story needed to be a documentary. DiMarco explained he had a few objectives. In making this film, I wanted it to be something that deaf people would go and see and say, Thats our movie. And that meant so much to me. But also it meant that we had to be true to the theme of Deaf President Now!, which is allowing deaf people to lead. That was when Guggenheim invited DiMarco to co-direct. But it didnt end there. Deaf people across every artisan and crew department were brought in to make this story as authentic to real life as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took experimenting with piecing the story together. The biggest being was helping hearing people understand deaf peoples relationship to sound. DiMarco explained, We may not hear the sound that noise makes. There are visual indicators, as youve seen in the film, and thats how we experienced sound. So with those visualizations and those moments, we really wanted to play with designing a deaf POV and we werent sure that it would work. But in our collaboration, we experimented and tried just about everything and it was a lot of fun, and we were able to make some great things happen. Guggenheim added that during meetings, I would be sitting there feeling totally uncomfortable conversations across the room because you, as long as you could see someone, you could understand them. And I couldnt understand anything. And I was like, I need the audience to feel what I feel. That was when they decided to experiment with the sonic approach and pull sound completely. What if you yanked the viewer into the deaf experience and yanked them back into the hearing experience? And what if when you pass through the gates of Gallaudet, you go from a very noisy room into this world thats very, very different? It was DiMarcos idea to interview the four subjects Bridgetta Bourne-Firl, Jerry Covell, Greg Hlibok and Tim Rarus, and how they would be the best way to get to the heart of the story. But also getting them separately to ensure the truth of what happened really came out. Its almost like everyone knows when someone knows the story and theyre telling it to you, they skip past things. But if theyre telling someone whos never heard it before. But I would do the interviews, but Nyle would be tapping my shoulder, going, Wait a minute, hes full of shit. Hes lying to tell the story about what they said. In one scene, former chair of the board of trustees Jane Spilman is shown. She is reported to have said, Deaf people are not ready to function in a hearing world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DiMarco explained how, for over 35 years, there had never been any solid evidence that this had happened. He explained, When we reached out to Gallaudet, we were very blessed to get over 40 hours of archival footage. And after screening through every single pixel of it, we couldnt find it. But when we showed the initial cut to the four student leaders, their first response was, even though we dont have evidence of it, everything else points to it; her facial expressions, the way that shes willing to talk about things. He went on to say, Four of those student leaders said they had never seen the clips that we showed them. It had been 35 years. And, of course, you look back and maybe glamorize things, but they were like, No, she really in fact, was that bad. As for the films release and how audiences can finally learn about Deaf President Now!, DiMarco wrapped by saying the film felt timely. I think, considering the political landscape that were living in and sort of the mess that were seeing being played out in our streets with protests and protests and protests for change. But I think people have really sort of forgotten how to protest. And I think I would want this movie to be a reminder that collective action can, in fact, work. Watch the video above. Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Vladimir Putin prepares meticulously for his meetings. So when he shakes hands with Donald Trump in Anchorage on Friday, he will have thought carefully about the course of the conversation. He will have reasonable sounding answers prepared to every possible objection Donald Trump might raise. He has memorised facts, figures and historic precedents to support his case. And he has also pushed dozens of infantrymen through a narrow gap in the Ukrainian lines in Donbas, creating a sense that a Russian breakthrough could be imminent. Their real mission: to help Putin recruit the American president to push a Russian vision of peace on Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He hopes to make Trump a cudgel with which to beat the Ukrainians and the Europeans into submission, as Sam Greene, a professor of Russian politics at Kings College London, puts it. Andrei Fedorov, a former Russian deputy foreign minister, says Putin would be seeking not Trumps endorsement to impose a specific plan, but a vague oral blessing from Trump to pursue peace on Russian terms. What Russia wants Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, pictured the last time they met in person, in Danang, Vietnam, November 11 2017 - Mikhail Klimentyev/ Getty Those terms are pretty clear: total Ukrainian withdrawal from the remainder of Donbas; a ban on its aspiration to join Nato; and strict limits on its military capability. All of those demands are unacceptable to Ukraine because they would leave it effectively defenceless against renewed attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is exactly what Ukrainian and European leaders fear, which is why on Wednesday they convened a series of emergency meetings to persuade Trump and other American officials not to be misled. The very setting for the summit, Alaska, poses a cautionary tale. Purchased peacefully from Russia for $7.2 million in 1867, it shows that national territory does not have to be permanent. As Prof Greene notes: When the Russian line is that borders have moved in the past, they can move again and people shouldnt get too upset about that, it is a very convenient place to sort of make that point. But if Russias peace plan will not fly, what will? There is an acceptance in Kyiv, Brussels and Washington that peace will require a painful sacrifice of some sort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The quarrel is not about the fact, but the scale and nature of the coming partition. Will Russias conquests be confirmed de jure or merely de facto? Temporary or permanent? Will Ukraine be obliged to hand over land that is not yet occupied? And above all, will it be left with enough land, independence and sovereignty to survive as a nation state? Diplomats on all sides have been scouring the history books for examples to follow. Here are some of them. The Finland model In 1939, Stalins Red Army launched an enormous invasion of Finland that, like Putins assault on Ukraine, quickly went wrong. Instead of crushing the puny Finnish army, the Soviets ran into chaos in snow-bound forests. Whole regiments were surrounded and wiped out. One Finnish sniper alone killed 500 Red Army soldiers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end, however, the Finns permanently surrendered more territory than Stalin initially demanded, agreed to massive reparations payments, and accepted an effective Soviet veto over foreign policy. And yet, Stalin gave up on total conquest. The Finns kept their nation and their democracy. In the long run, Finland more than survived: it prospered. Joseph Stalins 1939 invasion of Finland, like Putins assault on Ukraine, quickly went wrong - Getty Translated into the current war, it would mean a formal treaty cementing limited Russian territorial gains making the annexation of Crimea and other areas de jure, not just de facto. Borders would move in law. It would mean a decisive block on Ukrainian membership of either Nato or the European Union, one of Russias key war aims. But, on paper at least, it would secure Ukrainian independence in the long term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mutual withdrawals in the north-east might straighten the lines around Kharkiv, Sumy and Luhansk in a similar way to the final settlement between Finland and the Soviet Union. Some kind of deal might be done to ensure mutual, internationally mediated access to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. It is, however, a solution that appeals to outsiders rather than Ukrainians (or indeed Finns). Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president, has been telling everyone who will listen that imposing Finlandisation on Ukraine is a bad idea. Ukraine, he insists, should get the security guarantees Finland did not get. Even accepting sacrifices must be made, he has said, the West should be aiming to help Ukraine to keep more of its sovereignty than his own country could. Alexander Stubb, the Finnish president, right, has been telling everyone who will listen that imposing Finlandisation on Zelensky and Ukraine is a bad idea - Roni Rekomaa/Bloomberg In Ukraine itself, where such a change of borders would have to be approved by a nationwide referendum, the idea is derided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For a start, says Volodymyr Fesenko, a Kyiv-based political analyst, many feel like it has already been tried: Ukraine was non-aligned, broadly Moscow-friendly, and militarily toothless before the first Russian invasion in 2014. Not unrelatedly, few Ukrainians believe Putin would honour such terms the way Stalin did. He has already written his claim to four Ukrainian regions into Russias constitution, which bars him from now relinquishing them. So the Ukrainian public would reject it. But also Putin doesnt want it, says Fesenko. Stalin, for whatever reason, basically accepted a compromise on Finland. But Putin wants more than that. He wants everything. So Im sceptical about Finland. I personally think a Korean solution more likely. The Korean model The Korean War ended in a heavily-armed stalemate with no resolution of rival claims to territory or legitimacy. Because the 1953 armistice that froze the lines was never followed by a peace treaty, the war is technically still going. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, the front became a heavily fortified de facto border, behind which South Korea began to rebuild and prosper until it became the high-income democracy it is today. Its not an ideal situation, but it has obvious appeal. Oleksandr Prokudin, the governor of Ukraines half-occupied Kherson region, suggested in an interview with The Telegraph earlier this year how the Korean model might work. One part will get richer and better and the other will be poorer and poorer, he said. It happened not just in Korea but in postwar Germany, he added. And that model has particular allure, because it hints at the prospect of recovering lost territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end the Berlin Wall fell, he told me then. After some time, we will be back on the [Russian occupied] left bank of the Dnipro river just as Germany was reunified. In Kherson, where the front line is already effectively frozen by the vast Dnipro, it sometimes seems like the Korean model is already at hand. But at least two essential elements that underpinned the Korean peace post-war peace are absent. Ukrainian soldiers service their tanks and armoured vehicles in the half-occupied Kherson region of Ukraine on August 8 - Anadolu/Getty First up: a massive, long-lasting, overwhelmingly US-delivered security guarantee for South Korea, says Simon Smith, a former UK ambassador to South Korea. Some 28,000 (or thereabouts) US troops remain based in South Korea, and there are many more whose tasking is to an important extent inclusive of the commitment to defend South Korea. Second: the 1953 armistice took very largely as its starting point the positions occupied by the two Korean states at the outbreak of the war in 1950. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was no proposal remotely similar to what Trump seems to be envisaging when he talks of territory swaps... By which he appears to mean not a swap, but a decision on how much of the land which Putin has stolen from Ukraine will simply be given away to Russia. The drone war peace The absence of a security guarantee the deterrent that will persuade Russia to stop fighting and not to attack again is the Achilles heel of all these plans. But two former Ukrainian ministers, Andriy Zagorodnyuk and Alina Frolova, have suggested a way to freeze the line without one. In a paper published earlier this summer, they called for a military strategy to effectively de-fang Russia by making ground advances impossible. With modern drone technology and continued European support, they argue, the front line could effectively be widened and frozen even without American military assistance or a formal peace treaty or ceasefire. The goal, Zagorodnyuk agrees, is more or less the same as the Finnish and Korean models, except that it doesnt require Ukraine to do this very politically suicidal act of swapping land, which, by the way, there is no way Zelensky is going to do. The Finland scenario, Korean scenario, all the others one of them is going to bring peace, he adds, because there is nothing which will enforce Putins promises to end the war. America is not going to guarantee Ukrainian security because they want to focus on China. Europe cannot do it. Let the fighting do the talking These are hellish dilemmas, which is why European and Ukrainian observers would rather stop the fighting, then talk details. I would be happy if [the outcome of the meeting] was unconditional ceasefire, said Petro Poroshenko, the former president of Ukraine who negotiated the Minsk peace deal in 2015, said this week. Then we should prepare [the] so-called peace deal. Ukrainian paramedics treat civilians injured after a Russian air strike on a house in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine, last month - Anadolu/Getty Which brings us back, once again, to the shell-scarred tree lines of Donbas. In 2015, Poroshenko was forced into the second Minsk agreement to save thousands of Ukrainian troops from encirclement in the strategic town of Debaltseve. After he signed the ceasefire, the Russians just kept going and captured the town anyway. It was a brutal reminder that peace talks do not only take place in comfortable Arctic hotels. A Russian encirclement of Ukraines strongholds around Kramatorsk would dwarf the 2015 catastrophe, and could put Zelensky in a similarly impossible position. Zagorodnyuk plays down the significance of this weeks sudden attack, arguing the unsupported Russian infantry have effectively been sent on a suicide mission. So far, he says, the infiltration is in no way comparable to Debaltseve. And yet, says Volodymyr Fesenko, politicians in Kyiv are acutely aware of the danger of falling into such a trap. This is a different war with a different geo-political context. But in that sense theres a parallel: the Minsk agreements were signed under the barrel of a gun. There is great danger for us in signing any kind of peace agreement when we are under massive Russian military pressure. 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. Michael N. Castle, Delaware's lone and longest-serving member of the U.S. House of Representatives, who served nine terms in Congress and was also Delaware's governor, lieutenant governor and a state legislator, died Aug. 14 at the Country House in Greenville. He was 86. To recognize Castles lifetime of service to the state of Delaware, Gov. Matt Meyer ordered flags at all state-owned buildings and facilities to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Thursday, Aug. 21. Meyer, in a statement, said Castle "embodied what it means to lead with principle, decency and dedication." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Castle, a Republican stalwart, was a professional politician who spent the majority of his four-decade career as an elected official. Today, Delaware residents might be most familiar with the Michael N. Castle Trail, a biking and walking route along the north shore of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal. Castle, an athlete and known cyclist, helped secure federal funding for the project while he was a U.S. congressman. "Mike will go down in the history of our state and country as an honorable and effective public servant," former President Joe Biden, who commuted to Washington by train with Castle for nearly 20 years, said in a statement. "A man of his word who time and again put country over self. Someone we could all be proud to have as our Governor and Representative." Biden said Castle was defined by his integrity, "and for that reason, you couldnt find another member of Congress who would say a bad word about him." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All of us in Delaware owe Mike a debt of gratitude," Biden said. "What set [Castle] apart was always wanting to take a bipartisan approach that was his brand and always focusing on accomplishing things. He was very practical; very pragmatic," said Robert Perkins, executive director of the Delaware Business Roundtable and a former gubernatorial chief of staff for Castle. "They are two characteristics that are sorely missing in today's political discourse, that's for sure." Stunning defeat Castle has been out of the political limelight since shortly after September 2010 when he was dealt a stunning defeat in Delaware's Republican Senate primary by Tea Party candidate Christine O'Donnell. The Delaware seat, formerly held by Joe Biden for 36 years, became open when Biden ended his Senate career after becoming vice president to President Barack Obama in 2009. Former Delaware Gov. and U.S. Rep. Mike Castle in 2014. Some believed Castle was planning to occupy Biden's former Senate seat for the remaining four years of the term and then retire. That didn't happen with the upset victory of O'Donnell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After over 40 years of government service, Castle, who had never lost an election, was out and the defeat left him shaken. He told reporters he was "hurt and stunned" by the loss. Castle, a moderate Republican, refused to back O'Donnell, perhaps best known for an advertisement where she notoriously declared, "I am not a witch." She lost the November election to current Democratic Sen. Chris Coons, then New Castle County executive. Castle, if he had won the primary, was expected to defeat Coons, then considered an underdog. It was a bitter pill for Castle who had seen one of Delaware's two Senate seats slip away before. For years, Castle had hoped to succeed Republican incumbent Sen. Bill Roth. When Roth refused to step aside and retire in 2000, Castle wouldn't challenge him in a primary. Roth eventually lost the seat to outgoing Democratic Gov. Tom Carper. Mike Castle takes a walk on the trail. The Michael N. Castle Trail on the C&D Canal was dedicated on Oct. 18, 2013. From Statehouse to Capitol Hill Mike Ratchford, who served as chief of staff for Castle during both his governorship and time on Capitol Hill, remembered his former boss as down-to-earth, bordering on shy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He should be remembered as someone who always put Delaware and the interests of the country first," said Ratchford, who also served as secretary of state under Castle. "He was not a particularly partisan fellow. He didn't ask, 'What's the right thing to do politically?' He would ask, 'What's the right thing to do?'" Tall (6-foot-4) and affable, Castle was a Wilmington native and a descendant of Benjamin Franklin on his mother's side. His father was a DuPont Co. patent attorney. Castle graduated from Tower Hill School in Wilmington and Hamilton College in New York. He earned a law degree from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. He worked as an associate for the Wilmington firm Connolly, Bove and Lodge, later becoming a partner, and served for about a year as a Delaware deputy attorney general. While working for the state, Castle began his Delaware political career when he was elected to the state House of Representatives in 1966 and was one of the state Legislature's youngest officeholders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a two-year term, he was elected to the state Senate, where he served for eight years. Castle finished his term and returned to private practice, opening a firm with his longtime friend, the late Carl Schnee, a U.S. attorney under President Bill Clinton. For a time, Castle and Schnee were owners of the popular Bottle & Cork bar in Dewey Beach. Castle was wooed back to politics in 1980 by Gov. Pete du Pont to run as his lieutenant governor for du Pont's second term. Castle served as du Pont's right-hand man until 1985 and then easily won the office of governor. Du Pont would later urge Castle to run for the Senate. Castle was elected to a second term in 1988. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his time in office, Castle supported banking industry expansion and anti-takeover legislation for corporations. He also backed farmland preservation and sprawl control, albeit with limited success. Castle's administration created the Transportation Trust Fund, a financing institution that paid for the billion-dollar construction of Delaware Route 1. In May 1992, while serving as governor, the then 52-year-old married his wife Jane DiSabatino in a Catholic ceremony at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Dover. The couple had no children. Later that year in 1992, in an only-in-Delaware political move, Castle would swap seats with then-Rep. Tom Carper. Castle ran for Carper's seat and Carper ran for governor. Both men won. Duncan Patterson and Gov. Mike Castle at Point-to-Point in 1987. Lt. Gov. Dale Wolf assumed the governorship in 1992 when Castle stepped down after being elected to Congress. Wolf held the office for less than three weeks and was Delaware's last Republican governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Sen. Tom Carper said in a statement that he and Castle "shared a journey that spanned more than four decades - sometimes as colleagues in Dover and Washington D.C., sometimes as opponents on the basketball court - but always as partners in service to the people of the First State." Carper said the even though Castle was "a proud Republican" and he was a lifelong Democrat, it "never got in the way of our friendship or our work on behalf of Delawareans. We were united by our shared love for Delaware, and a determination to leave it better than we found it." Most popular politician in Delaware In a 2007 Fairleigh Dickinson University poll, Castle was selected as the most popular politician in Delaware. Former Governor Mike Castle is one of two honorees for the Delaware Historical Society's 2015 History Maker award. "His fiscal conservative and modern stance on social issues is a perfect fit for Delawareans," according to a 2004 editorial in The News Journal. "That's why he keeps getting elected." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After his last chance at a run for the Senate seat ended in 2010, Castle returned to his former law career. In 2011, he joined DLA Piper, a global law firm. Castle has been a speaker at the University of Delaware and has received the Josiah Marvel Cup from the Delaware Chamber of Commerce. Reactions to Castle's death U.S. Sen. Chris Coons, who volunteered to work on Castle's campaign as a high school student, released a statement shortly after Castle's death, remembering him as "kind, genuine, civically minded, responsible an old-fashioned Republican. Over the arc of the more than 40 years that I knew him I met him when I was 16 he repeatedly provided his knowledge and expertise to help me along my own way. When he was a congressman and I was county executive, we worked together often, including some important investments into the C&D Canal greenway. When we eventually ran against each other, I did my absolute best to run a respectful, positive, policy-based campaign. As we campaigned against each other, I only liked him more," Coons wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added: He was an incredible man, and Annie and I are praying for Jane and for the many Delawareans touched by his life and friendship. Former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, a Democrat, said the reason why Mike Castle was one of the most popular leaders in Delaware's history was that he "focused on solving problems and on being a public servant for all Delawareans, including those who didn't vote for him. "He did his homework. In my early days as Governor, I asked Congressman Castle to support a bill in Washington that would promote renewable energy solutions. He called me back a week later and said he had read all 1,400 pages," said Markell, who served from 2009 to 2017. "And he said, 'My party won't be happy with me, but supporting this bill is the right thing for Delaware and for the country.' He was one of a handful of Republicans to support the bill." Markell said, "Castle built a career on doing the right thing, listening to all sides, and treating everybody with respect. We need more leaders like him across the United States today." U.S. Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester said in a statement that she always admired how gracefully Castle led. "From his focus on educating our children and maintaining fiscal responsibility to his commitment to protecting our environment, his presence throughout our state will be missed," she said. He served the First State selflessly, with a pragmatic approach and relentless optimism. One of my fondest memories of Mike was with my late dad, Ted Blunt. Not only did they share a love of public service, but they also shared a love of basketball. They joked about playing basketball on the same team and against each other on several occasions over the years." Wilmington Mayor and former governor John Carney described Castle as "kind and generous with his time." "This was especially true for me as I adjusted to my new role as a member of Congress," said Carney, who served as Delaware's congressman from 2011 to 2017. "I considered it a privilege to succeed Congressman Castle after his 18 years in the U.S. House, where he was admired and appreciated on both sides of the aisle. "Today is a sad day in Delaware; we have lost a public servant who did so much for our state," Carney said. Castle was already a state senator when Robert Gilligan began his 40-year run as a Democratic member of the state House of Representatives before retiring in 2012. He said Castle was a straight-shooter. If you asked a question, you'd always get a truthful answer back. "He didn't always tell you what you wanted to hear, but you could take his answer to the bank," said Gilligan, who served in Dover as speaker of the House from 2009 to 2012. "Back in those days, you could disagree and also be friends. At 5 o'clock, it was over and tomorrow was a new day." House Minority Leader Rep. Tim Dukes said Castle leaves behind a meaningful legacy. Throughout his decades of public service, from the Delaware House of Representatives to the U.S. House of Representatives, he embodied civility, pragmatism, and a willingness to work inclusively in pursuit of the common good. House Minority Whip Jeffrey Spiegelman said Castle "had a career any elected official would find envious. Not because of his success at winning elections, but because of the trust he secured through his years of public service, which made those victories possible." He said people will be reminded of him when they "walk the Michael N. Castle Trail along the C & D Canal." Services for Castle have not yet been disclosed. Patricia Talorico can be found on Instagram, X and Facebook. Email ptalorico@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Michael Castle, former governor, congressman, dies at age 86 Ukraine and Europe must be participants in peace talks - phone talk between speakers of parliaments of Ukraine and Slovenia Ukraine and Europe should be participants in peace negotiations, according to the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk and the Chairman of the National Assembly of Slovenia Urska Klakocar-Zupancic. "I have just finished a conversation with the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia Urska Klakocar-Zupancic. I heard my colleague's clear position: discussing the future of a sovereign state without its participation is unacceptable. Ukraine must be a full participant in future negotiations. As well as Europe - after all, this is not just about the war in Ukraine, but about common European security," Stefanchuk wrote on Facebook on Thursday. Stefanchuk noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is ready for any constructive format and, most importantly, a result, which should begin with a ceasefire. "We are united in the fact that security guarantees for Ukraine should not be paper declarations, but real mechanisms capable of containing the aggressor. Russia does not have and will not have the right to influence the future of Ukraine: neither in the EU, nor in NATO. Every peace initiative should be accompanied by powerful pressure on the aggressor - political and sanctions," the speaker of the Ukrainian parliament emphasized. According to him, during the conversation an agreement was reached on further coordination of efforts, in particular within the framework of inter-parliamentary groups. "There is a common understanding: sustainable peace is possible only on the basis of unwavering respect for international law, which should again acquire the status of an unconditional reference point," Stefanchuk noted. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Michigan lawmakers say theyre trying to put a stop to the sexual exploitation of deepfake technology through a package of bills in the state legislature. Deepfakes are photos or video of people that look real but are not, and many people are worried that the technology is being used to generate pornographic images of people without their consent. Now, lawmakers are trying to make it a crime. The Michigan Senate met Wednesday regarding House Bills 4047 and 4048, which both address deepfake sexual content, an issue many believe is a big concern across the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local experts warn that these types of pictures and videos are becoming increasingly common. Actually those tools which used to only be accessible to high level P.H.D. researchers, right now, everyone have access to those tools, says MSU Foundation professor Xiaoming Liu. The bill package seeks to make the production and spreading of deepfake sexual content a civil and criminal, violation, something State Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing), the sponsor of one of the bills, says is a must. It bans artificial intelligence generated explicit images, Tsernoglou said. And [creates] a process for holding people accountable who are doing this sort of thing, because right now its unregulated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tsernoglou warns these tools in the wrong hands can ruin lives. They dont want to participate in society or go back to school or to work, or to anyone who may have seen the images, and theyre very ashamed, said Tsernoglou. The lawmaker says she is optimistic that the bills will eventually be signed into law. She says the only question is jut how long that will take. Both bills were voted on during Mondays Senate session, will return to the House with changes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. A deer in Waterford has tested positive for rabies, officials said. The Ledge Light Health District said a deer found on Gun Shot Road in Waterford tested positive for the virus on Tuesday, according to a social media post. Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people. It is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus, according to the health district which covers East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Stonington and Waterford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Across the state in 2023, the latest year for which the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has data posted, 36 known animals tested positive for rabies. There were 27 positive cases in 2022. The animals included 12 bats, nine raccoons, eight skunks, three cats, two groundhogs, a bobcat and a fox, data shows. Last year, the Ledge Light Health District said that a raccoon found on Cedar Drive in North Stonington was tested and found to be positive for rabies on Dec. 9. In Connecticut, all dogs and cats over the age of 3 months are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. To keep yourself and your pets safe, the the Ledge Light Health District recommends residents: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Refrain from feeding or approaching any wild or stray animals. Keep pets up to date on their rabies vaccines. Limit pets unsupervised time outside. Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com. When Vladimir Putin meets with Donald Trump in Alaska tomorrow, it will represent the best chance at peace in Europe in the three and a half years since Russias invasion reignited the conflict in Ukraine. This does not mean that peace should be pursued at all costs. It is to Mr Trumps credit that he has indicated that no deal will be made without the consent of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky. It is to his credit, also, that he has stated his willingness to impose sanctions if negotiations prove unsuccessful. Mr Trump must stand by this. Many will be disappointed by a potential deal that could leave Russia with a substantial portion of Ukrainian territory. It is not clear, however, that a viable alternative still exists. After over three years of warfare, Ukraines armed forces do not appear to have the ability to expel Russian troops from its territory altogether, or Europe the capacity to sustain Kyivs fight without American support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is hard to overstate how woeful Europes position is. Tomorrow, the security of its Eastern flank will be discussed at a summit where the Continents leaders will be seen as an effective irrelevance. They will be seen as such because that is what they are. For all Sir Keir Starmers bold words about a coalition of the willing and the conditions this group has placed on talks, negotiation in this field is a matter of hard power. Russia has it; the United states has it. To paraphrase another Russian leader: Keir Starmer? How many divisions has he? The answer to that question may well be effectively none. The result is that Britain will watch on from the sidelines, along with other European nations which have failed to maintain their defensive capabilities. The modern history of British overseas adventures is one of optimistic attempts to gather allies followed by prolonged periods of embarrassed quiet. When the United States decided to withdraw from Afghanistan, Britain rapidly went from attempting to gather a coalition of like-minded nations to maintain a presence in the country, to concluding that we couldnt hold Kabul airport. Even now, Sir Keir Starmers coalition of the willing will be dependent on American goodwill and assets to have a chance of functioning as an effective deterrent to future Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an intolerable state of affairs that should never have come about, and which can never be permitted again. As has been clear since Putins first military action in Ukraine in 2014, Europe needs to take responsibility for its own defence. We cannot assume that the American taxpayer will be endlessly willing or indeed able to bail us out. And we need to be realistic, too, about our economic links to potentially hostile nations. German diplomats laughed when Mr Trump warned in 2018 that Berlin could not take the risk of dependence on Russian energy. With high energy costs taking a heavy toll on German industry, this attitude is likely to be less widespread. The links, however, remain in attenuated form. The European Union still imports a considerable quantity of Russian oil and gas, with further legal purchases routed through India. When this war does eventually end, will Europe continue with its project to reduce this reliance, and to retain its economic freedom to manoeuvre? Will it stick with its plan to ramp up defence spending and strategic autonomy? Or will it instead attempt to use the peace dividend to fund the staggering burden of its welfare systems? US vice-president JD Vance and secretary of defence Pete Hegseths descriptions of the Continent as free-loading, and their expressions of exhaustion at bailing Europe out again, are uncomfortably accurate. Europe has spent on ploughshares when it should have spent on swords. It is not clear that it will not repeat this pattern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Britain, where some level of capacity has been retained, the assumption that we will always work with allied partners looks like a flimsy justification for having built a force that isnt actually capable of achieving its basic goals. This, too, must be corrected, regardless of the outcome of tomorrows talks. If there is peace in Ukraine, Europe must rearm to ensure it lasts. If the war continues, Europe must rearm so that it can continue to supply Ukraine in its conflict. The lessons of the past three years must be learnt. We should never again be so powerless to determine our own future. 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. John Brady, the first openly gay elected official in the state of Delaware, has died at 66. Brady died at his home surrounded by family, friends and caregivers on Aug. 10 after battling a long illness. Among his many accolades, Brady served as deputy attorney general and was elected to three row offices in Sussex County: recorder of deeds, clerk of the peace and register in chancery. As clerk of the peace, Brady conducted the first legal same-sex unions in the First State over a decade ago and went on to perform over 1,000 marriages throughout his four-year term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He held his post until 2017, when he took on the role of chief deputy register of wills. Brady retired last year, after 16 years as a state employee and more than three decades as a member of the Delaware Bar. On Aug. 9, the day before he died, former Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long and former state House Speaker Pete Schwartzkopf presented Brady with the Order of the First State considered the highest civilian honor for persons who meet an exceptional degree for community service. Chris Beagle (left) and Eric Englehart (right) of Rehoboth Beach were the first gay couple to be married in Sussex County on July 1, 2013 at CAMP Rehoboth in Rehoboth Beach with Sussex County Clerk of the Peace John Brady officiating. Brady was also an active presence in the Boy Scouts, and went on to receive the Founders Award one of the highest honors in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From his dedication to justice and service through the law to the barriers he broke as Delaware's first openly gay elected official, John fought with compassion to improve our state and touched countless lives in the process, Gov. Matt Meyer said in a statement. Lauren's and my prayers are with John's family and friends, as we all mourn his passing and celebrate his extraordinary life. Visitation is scheduled from noon to 2 p.m., Sept. 20 at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium-Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes. A memorial service will be scheduled in September at St. Josephs on the Brandywine in Greenville, Bradys friend and caregiver told the Cape Gazette. 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: Long-time elected official John Brady dies NEW YORK (PIX11) Famed Southern-style chicken chain Bojangles is returning to New York City opening its first location in Brooklyn this winter, the company announced. New Yorkers seeking to savor their famous fried chicken, biscuits, and tea can head to East Flatbush for a taste. More Local News From its delicious chicken, biscuits, and breakfast to its incredible franchisee support system, I couldnt be more proud to lead Bojangles growth in New York City, said upcoming franchise owner and operator Habib Hashimi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bojangles plans to expand throughout the New York metropolitan area. It had a brief stint in the city in the 1980s, according to a press release. Now, the company is announcing a deal with a franchisee to develop 35 more locations across New Jersey. It aims to open at least 50 locations throughout the New York metro area. To get a preview of the food this winter, check out the slideshow below. Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles Photo courtesy of Bojangles For more information on Bojangles, click here. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. HUNSTVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) North Alabama will have at least one Democrat running for Congress in 2026. Andrew Sneed announced he is challenging Republican U.S. Rep. Dale Strong for his seat in Congress. He launched his campaign at an event on Saturday. Sneed tells News 19 he feels politics are a major source of division for people at the moment, but he believes his community can come together and make something better. Final forum for Madison mayoral candidates two weeks before the election Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we offer is something different, Sneed said. A politics that listens. A politics that isnt politics. Its just service. Sneed said, as a member of Congress, he would be accessible, listening to the voices of North Alabamians. Its just so important that we dont feel siloed, that we meet people where they are and know that theyre valued, theyre seen, theyre heard, and that they have a representative who is there to represent them, Sneed said. He is a small business owner who was born and raised in the district. Sneed said he wants to represent workers and prioritize education funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sneed does not support cuts to Medicaid, Social Security or the VA, but he believes there is a need to reduce the national debt. News 19 is Your Local Election Headquarters! Click here for more election coverage Were all in uncertainty right now, Sneed said. The cost of living is too high. Across the board, I think district and nation, everyone knows that our national debt is unsustainable. We have an incumbent that has just voted to add $4 trillion to a $40 trillion deficit. That is not being a fiscally responsible person. Strong was elected to the seat in 2022. Throughout his time in office, he has been a consistent supporter of the Trump Administrations policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a visit to Madison County last month, Strong told News 19 he is focused on bringing Space Command to Huntsville, saying he believes the move is cost-efficient and will benefit Madison County. The fifth district race will be decided in November 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. A Democrat-leaning professor is calling for reforms in the social sciences that have been "captured" by a progressive agenda after joining a coalition of scholars from both sides of the political aisle dedicated to ending wokeness in higher education. "The idea is that really, one would think that when we're talking about science, whether it's social science or medical science or anything like that, political opinion shouldn't matter. It shouldn't cloud the pursuit of truth," Wayne State University professor Jukka Savolainen told Fox News Digital. "And we are doing this because we are convinced with good evidence that this mission has been, this plot has been lost over the years, over the decades, and we want to restore these traditional values of objective inquiry and truth." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Savolainen teaches criminal justice and "Sociology of Sport" at Wayne State University in Detroit. Chris Rufo Lays Out Reforms To Trump Administration On How To 'Save' Higher Education While Florida was considering cutting sociology as a core general education requirement in 2023, Savolainen wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal arguing that he saw the discipline "morph from a scientific study of social reality into academic advocacy for left-wing causes." Read On The Fox News App His comments bucked the majority of his academic counterparts who were pushing to "Save Sociology." He added that there are other sociology professors who "silently" agree with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Savolainen is the point person of the sociology community of the Heterodox Academy. "Eric Kaufman is the director of the Institute for Heterodox Social Science, and heterodoxy, of course, means the opposite of orthodoxy, the opposite of groupthink. We are all joined in our displeasure with groupthink and monoculture in academia, and we are interested in viewpoint diversity and those types of things," he said. Savolainen signed "The Buckingham Manifesto for a Post-Progressive Social Science" that was published by The Chronicle of Higher Education in July. The manifesto, led by political science professor Eric Kaufmann, calls for a "post-progressive social science" to be "pursued in new universities and centers, among dissident scholars in the academic mainstream, in think tanks, or, best of all, in a future academe rededicated to open inquiry, viewpoint diversity, and civil discourse." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Savolainen said that Kaufmann is seeking a coalition of people from all political backgrounds that care about the truth. He added that critics of the manifesto may consider all the signatories conservative because they do not subscribe to the "sort of left-wing social justice type of narrative." The manifesto, led by political science professor Eric Kaufmann, calls for a "post-progressive social science" to be "pursued in new universities and centers, among dissident scholars in the academic mainstream." Anti-israel Professor Curses Out Employer University Of Chicago, Says She Teaches To Build Power "I guess we're all conservative in a sense that science is conservative, that we are conservative about truth. We have to be careful. We have be tolerant of different viewpoints. We have to be open, to be challenged about our perspectives and we have to be very rigorous about what counts as evidence, not just something that you want to believe is true, but there has to be a scientific method we need to respect," Savolainen said. Among the signers were conservative activist Christopher Rufo and liberal scholars like Steven Pinker from Harvard . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Academics from other countries , including Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Argentina, signed the manifesto as well. "What I hope to happen is that this is just an affirming [of] something," Savolainen said. "It's also signaling to politicians that not all social scientists are captured, that there is a healthy group of social science people, academics who agree with the problems of ideological bias and maybe to the extent that there's political effort to build and reform universities along these lines, here we are, we're ready to participate in that effort," Savolainen said. Savolainen described himself as a "classical liberal" and a Democrat who has never voted for a Republican. While Florida was considering cutting sociology as a core general education requirement in 2023, Wayne State professor Jukka Savolainen wrote an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal arguing that he saw the discipline "morph from a scientific study of social reality into academic advocacy for left-wing causes." "I'm not leftist in this sort of identitarian-social justice perspective that I think is harmful in the long run when it comes to these goals, because it divides people by race and identity and those types of things. I'm not in favor of the gender ideology that pushes unscientific or biologically incorrect agendas about sex differences, for example," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He went on to say, "The problem that these signatories, people like me who agree with this statement, is that the social science part of academia, a lot of humanities as well, has been captured, as the term goes, by kind of illiberal f that makes sense illiberal, leftist, quote unquote, woke folk, so illiberal progressive people." "What we mean by that is that folks who do not respect open inquiry, these sorts of classical liberal perspectives of freedom of speech, are more comfortable censoring and suppressing points of view because they are harmful or they disturb the woke or the progressive agenda." Original article source: Democrat professor breaks ranks to challenge wokeness dominating American universities Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) slammed congressional Republicans on Wednesday for allowing Donald Trump to roll over our democracy and warned the president could become a fascist dictator if they vote in favor of extending his powers in the Home Rule Act in Washington, D.C. Trump invoked the 1973 law Monday to federalize D.C.s Metropolitan Police Department to quell the purported bedlam there. He later deployed National Guard troops, despite the departments own year-to-date comparison on violent crime showing a 26% drop. Related: Donald Trump's Sylvester Stallone Announcement Takes Aggravating Turn For Many Goldman condemned the federal takeover during an appearance on MSNBCs The Weeknight, and was asked if Republicans really are as unanimous about potentially extending the Home Rule Acts 30-day timeframe as Trump suggested earlier that day. Related: Hunter Biden's Response To Melania Trump's Apology Demand Rhymes With 'Duck Fat' I would really, really hope not, because the militarization of our cities and our domestic law enforcement violates the Posse Comitatus law and violates everything that we believe in [as] Americans, the New York Democrat told co-host Alicia Menendez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But just as I thought there would be Republicans who would stand up for their constituents and prevent them from losing health care, prevent them from losing food benefits, prevent billions of dollars of offshore wind investment in their own districts they didnt, he noted. Goldman was referring to the GOPs big, beautiful bill, signed into law last month, which is expected to kick millions of people off Medicaid and curb eligibility for food assistance while flooding immigration forces with $150 billion in additional funding. So I have zero faith in the Republican Congress right now, Goldman said. Rep. Dan Goldman said President Donald Trump, above, is following his worst instincts aggressively now without any guardrails. Alex Brandon/Associated Press And thats what we need to be talking about, because Donald Trump clearly is both distracting from Jeffrey Epstein, but also following his worst instincts aggressively now and without any measure of guardrails, he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein, who died in prison while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges in 2019, once said Trump was his closest friend. His death and known ties to powerful figures fueled theories of a client list, which Trump has called bullshit to the ire of some in his base. Related: House Democrat Gives Trump Stark Reminder About Presidential Duties So, right now, the question is are Republican members of Congress going not only to roll over to Donald Trumps will, but to roll over our democracy and allow him to take over this country as a fascist dictator? Goldman said, echoing widely shared concerns. Thats why Im focusing on the Republicans, because they know better, he added. They dont like this. But it doesnt matter what they say to me privately. What matters is if theyre willing to stand up to someone who is running scared from the Epstein files. Related... Read the original on HuffPost Ever since Zohran Mamdani won the Democratic primary for New York City mayor two months ago, Republicans have been licking their chops, and prominent Democrats have been squirming. The GOP sees this as an opportunity to tie the broader Democratic Party to a self-described socialist with many far-left policies who is well poised to become mayor of the nations largest city. And the reaction from some Democrats many high-profile ones have declined to endorse him suggests they see potential peril here. The issue is coming to a head. Polls reinforce Mamdani is a strong favorite to become mayor. Congressional Republicans are running ads invoking him as they try to hold onto the US House next year. And The New York Times reports hes heard from former President Barack Obama, perhaps signaling a thaw with the Democratic establishment. Now Mamdani is getting the Time magazine cover treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, its a good time to ask: How much of a liability could he be for Democrats? Its still too early to say. Mamdani remains very new on the national and even the local stage, and much will depend on how he runs his campaign and ultimately, if he wins in November, how he governs. There have been some signs of attempted moderation. But we do have some early clues about how he could affect his party. For starters, Mamdani is clearly not popular outside of New York City. A Siena College poll this week showed statewide New York voters disliked him 37%-28% and thats in a left-leaning state. A recent Yahoo News-YouGov poll, meanwhile, showed a relatively similar verdict among Americans nationwide: 31%-22% negative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While those arent good numbers, they dont exactly suggest hes a pariah who could be used effectively as a bogeyman on the national stage at least yet. In the national survey, 46% didnt even have an opinion of the Democratic mayoral nominee, underscoring the room that exists for him to define himself or be defined by others. (Even in New York, 34% of voters didnt have an opinion about him.) Its relatively normal for politicians to be somewhat underwater these days. Mamdanis numbers in New York state were better than those of his top two opponents, New York Mayor Eric Adams and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, for example. And his national numbers are about as negative as President Donald Trumps, if you adjust for name recognition. But the polls also reinforce how Mamdani could alienate some key voters. Both surveys show hes popular with young voters, but he gets much less popular as voters get older. The New York poll showed voters 55 and older dislike him 47%-18%. The national poll shows voters 45 and older dislike him about 2-to-1. From there, its a question of whether his ideas could alienate lots of voters as people become familiar with them and particularly if he actually pursues some of the more far-left ones. Trump and others have painted Mamdani as not just a socialist, but also as a communist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Yahoo poll suggested that some of Mamdanis more socialistic proposals are actually quite popular. For instance, Americans liked the idea of freezing rent for low-income tenants, 60%-22%. They liked making public buses free, 46%-36%. They even liked Mamdanis (much-maligned on the right) idea of government-owned grocery stores, 51%-31%. Whether those policies would work in practice is a huge variable, but voters actually seem to like them in theory. And to the extent Mamdani focuses on kitchen-table issues, its less likely some of these stances would be a problem for Democrats. A copy of City & State New York shows a mocked up image of New York City Mayor Eric Adams and candidate Zohran Mamdani on July 14. - Adam Gray/Reuters But then we get into the other stuff. Mamdani has a problematic paper trail on some hot-button issues that Republicans have been gleeful to highlight. Late in the primary, he refused to condemn the phrase globalize the intifada, leading some Democrats who view it as a call to arms against Jewish people to strongly rebuke him. Hes since signaled he would discourage the phrase. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani has also in the past supported the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. But polls suggest relatively few Americans are familiar with these subjects. A 2022 Pew Research Center poll, for instance, showed 84% of Americans said theyd heard not much or nothing at all about the BDS movement. The polls also suggest Americans writ large are adopting an increasingly skeptical posture toward Israel and its prosecution of the war against Hamas in Gaza. That doesnt mean people will be okay with globalize the intifada or Mamdanis comments about the phrase, but it suggests his criticisms of Israel might be less of an issue than they once could have been. Mamdani was also once an outspoken supporter of the Defund the Police movement, which was prominent among some corners of the left amid racial justice protests years ago. He called the NYPD racist, anti-queer & a major threat to public safety and once mocked an image of a crying police officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those comments could be a problem for his party, given its been relatively rare to see a high-profile Democrat who espoused defunding the police. Polling from 2021 showed as much as 70% of Americans opposed that movement. But Mamdanis now sought to distance himself from those past comments and said he doesnt support defunding the police anymore. And finally is the s-word: socialist. Americans views on socialism have improved somewhat in recent years, owing in large part to the rise of self-described democratic socialist Bernie Sanders, the Independent Vermont senator. But socialism as a whole has remained an unpopular ideology. Gallup polling in 2021 showed Americans viewed it unfavorably, 59%-38%. A Pew poll showed they opposed socialism by a similar margin, 60%-36%. And a Fox News poll in 2022 showed voters said that the country moving toward socialism would be a bad thing, 60%-32%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But just because they dont like socialism doesnt mean theyre not open to candidates who use that label. Sanders, for one, remains popular even as hes embraced the democratic socialist label. A Gallup poll last month showed he actually had the best numbers of 10 US political figures tested. And in second place? Another self-described democratic socialist, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York. She, like Sanders, beat out a series of Trump administration figures tested by Gallup. All of which could suggest Mamdani might not be the pariah Republicans envision him as depending on how he adjusts to his newfound prominence. Republicans certainly have material to work with here, but time will tell. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A man was arrested after several businesses in the Denham Springs antique district were vandalized with lewd spray-painted designs on Wednesday morning. According to the Denham Springs Police Department, officers responded to the area around 8:29 a.m. Aug. 13 after reports of property damage. Police arrested Jason Cannon, 42, after releasing footage. He was charged with criminal damage to property by defacing with graffiti. Jason Cannon (Denham Springs Police Department) Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. The Department of Homeland Security is facing criticism from brands and artists for using their work in memes posted to its social media accounts. The DHS maintains a busy presence on X and Instagram, regularly posting mugshots of undocumented migrants alongside tweets encouraging people to join ICE. The department recently attracted a savage response from the creators of South Park after it repurposed a still from the show satirising ICE during an episode that mocked the Trump administration and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in particular. Under DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the departments social media activity has ramped up, posting arrest updates alongside allegedly humorous memes (Getty) Before that, the DHS posted a spoof of a commercial for the British low-cost airline Jet2 featuring music from Jess Glynne to draw an allegedly humorous parallel between summer vacations and its mass deportation push. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the company said the parody was not endorsed by us in any way, and we are very disappointed to see our brand being used to promote government policy such as this. Glynne herself said she felt sick when she first learned of the misuse of her 2015 song Hold My Hand and commented on Instagram that it is about love, unity and spreading positivity never about division or hate. The DHSs use of the paintings Morning Pledge by Thomas Kinkade and A Prayer for a New Life by Morgan Weistling has likewise provoked complaints from the Kinkade Family Foundation and Weistling himself, with both parties stating that the use was unauthorized and objecting to the appropriation. We strongly condemn the sentiment expressed in the post and the deplorable actions that DHS continues to carry out, the foundation wrote in a statement on behalf of Kinkade posted to X. Homeland Security Investigations officers detain a person on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday (Getty) Responding to the criticism, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said: The Department of Homeland Security is bypassing the mainstream media to give Americans the facts, debunk the lies, and unapologetically celebrate our homeland, heritage, and the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are pleased that the media is highlighting DHSs historic successes in making America safe again. Glynne is not the only musical act the department has upset through its posting. The rock band Black Rebel Motorcycle Club reacted to the department using its cover of Gods Gonna Cut You Down by saying: Its obvious that you dont respect Copyright Law and Artist Rights any more than you respect Habeas Corpus and Due Process rights, not to mention the separation of Church and State per the US Constitution Go f*** yourselves. The estates of Woody Guthrie and Tom Petty have also complained about the use of This Land is Your Land and Wont Back Down respectively. Federal agents detain a man as they patrol the halls of immigration court at the Jacob K Javitz Federal Building in New York City on August 5 2025 (Getty) Such reactions have become a familiar complaint for the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Metallica forced the Pentagon to remove their classic track Enter Sandman from a video featuring Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth promoting military drones, again saying its use was unauthorized. Trump himself has received a deluge of objections from artists unhappy with his use of their songs to soundtrack his political activities. Linkin Park, Queen, and Neil Young all complained during his first term, as did the Foo Fighters, Isaac Hayes, and Jack White throughout last summers presidential campaign. White was particularly incensed about the Republicans use of Seven Nation Army in a social media clip posted by his then-deputy director of communications Margo Martin last August, raging on Instagram: Oh....Dont even think about using my music you fascists. Lawsuit coming from my lawyers about this (to add to your 5 thousand others.) Have a great day at work today Margo Martin. And as long as Im here, a double f*** you DonOLD for insulting our nations veterans at Arlington you scum. You should lose every military familys vote immediately from that if ANYTHING makes sense anymore. (The Center Square) The U.S. Department of Justice has named New Orleans among the nations list of Sanctuary Jurisdictions, citing local laws and policies it says obstruct federal immigration enforcement. The designation comes as Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill is seeking to end Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office restrictions on cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Current policy bars executing ICE warrants unless the individuals are linked to violent offenses a rule the Justice Department says meets the criteria for sanctuary status. Murrill, in a February filing in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, said the policy violates federal law and endangers public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people of Louisiana...have adamantly rejected sanctuary policies that shield those who have broken our laws and endanger the men, women, and children of this state, Murrill said. We look forward to working with President Trump to end the wave of violent crime and drugs that has swept across this nation from the southern border for the last eight years. Murill is asking the court to intervene in long-running federal oversight of the Sheriffs Office the consent decree to remove or alter provisions she says block cooperation with immigration enforcement. The state is still awaiting a ruling from the Eastern District. Murill says a 2024 change in state law on immigration detainers should have led the parties to seek an end to the consent judgment, enabling the Orleans Parish Sheriffs Office to follow state requirements. "But no party has done so," Murill said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2024 law requires that state and local law enforcement comply with immigration detainers issued to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Justice Department defines sanctuary jurisdictions as those that limit ICE detainer requests without judicial warrants, restrict ICE access to detainees, limit information sharing on immigration status, and bar the use of local resources for federal immigration enforcement. New Orleans is the only Louisiana jurisdiction on the Justice Department's list, which also includes California, New York, and Washington, as well as cities such as Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago and Seattle. The list will be updated to add or remove jurisdictions as policies change. This marks the latest chapter in a nearly decade-long clash over New Orleans immigration policies, dating back to 2016 when then-Attorney General Jeff Landry testified before Congress that the consent decree absolutely violated federal law. Federal, state and local officials remain at odds over how far local governments can go in limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. (The Center Square) Deportation Depot, a second immigration detention facility in Florida, has been proposed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The second-term Republican while in Sanderson on Thursday said another location is needed as a complement to Alligator Alcatraz, the first such facility he opened on an isolated airport in the Everglades. U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams has put a 14-day stoppage to additional construction there while considering environmental issues. The 1,300-bed facility at Baker Correctional Institution, about 40 miles from Jacksonville in the northern part of the state, could be expanded to 2,000. It could begin housing people illegally in America on or before Labor Day, according to an estimate from state Emergency Management. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis said, Floridas new Deportation Depot will begin housing, detaining, and processing illegal aliens for deportation, in coordination with federal authorities. With Alligator Alcatraz operating in South Florida and Deportation Depot authorized in North Florida, we are ramping up our capacity to deport more foreign criminals every day. Florida will always stand for the rule of law and put the safety of our citizens first. Kristi Noem, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, has praised the Florida initiatives. The governor said costs would be reimbursed by federal partners. The judicial order on Alligator Alcatraz at the Dade-Collier Training and Transition Facility about 50 miles from Miami doesnt stop use of the facility. Rather, it does halt construction. The state and the administration of President Donald Trump are allowed to use the facility and house detainees. FERRY TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) A 46-year-old man died after a shooting on Thursday morning in Ferry Township, according to deputies. The Oceana County Sheriffs Office says it was sent along with Michigan State Police to E. Buchanan Road at 7:12 a.m. after getting a report of a man being shot. Deputies say the 46-year-old had been shot and was dead when they arrived. The sheriffs office says that they are still investigating, along with state troopers and the MSP crime lab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is not believed to be any threat to the public, according to deputies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. The Raccoon River on June 13, 2025 as it weaves past downtown Des Moines and towards Gray's Lake Park. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) Officials from Des Moines Water Works said Thursday a decision from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency pertaining to water quality did not align with the operational and financial challenges the utility has faced in providing safe drinking water to Iowans. EPA previously designated seven river segments, including two connected to Des Moines source waters, as impaired segments due to high concentrations of nitrates. The agency rescinded the decision in July following pushback from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources on the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amy Kahler, the CEO and general manager of Des Moines Water Works, said in a news release the high nitrate levels in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers are making it increasingly difficult to treat source water. The Des Moines and Raccoon rivers must have targeted water quality plans to be sustainable sources of drinking water for generations, Kahler said in the release. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX State agencies are required to assess surface water quality every two years and develop a list of impaired water segments. These segments have identified pollutants that exceed EPA standards and are given water improvement plans to reduce the pollutants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPA rejected part of DNRs 2025 list to add the seven additional segments in November. The agency finalized the decision in January following a public comment period in which DNR officials pushed back on the ruling, saying in a letter that nitrate was not on the list of toxic pollutants under the Clean Water Act and that EPA did not provide reasoning for the decision. This summer, Des Moines Water Works and its regional authority, Central Iowa Water Works, banned lawn watering for about a month and half in order to keep the nitrate levels in finished water below safe drinking water standards. Des Moines Water Works has been running its nitrate removal system, which is estimated to cost about $16,000 per day, for more than 110 days this summer. Central Iowa Water Works is planning several expansion projects including one at the pictured Saylorville Water Treatment Plant. The expansions would increase overall capacity and nitrate treatment capacity. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch) The impairment of the Raccoon and Des Moines rivers threatens our mission and ability to safely (provide) drinking water on behalf of the region to 600,000 central Iowans, Kahler said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the EPA Region 7 letter sent to DNR in July, DNR submitted additional information to the federal agency in May as to why the state did not list the seven segments identified by EPA. EPA said in the letter it had evaluated different standards from DNRs evaluation and would therefore rescind the previous designation on the seven segments in order to further evaluate this rationale and reconsider the decision. Andrea Boulton, chair of the Des Moines Water Works Board of Trustees, said human health and safety are our top priority. We cannot lose sight of that amid a disagreement on technical language, Boulton said in the release. We clearly have a problem in the state of Iowa when water quality issues prevent our drinking water utilities from being able to make clean, safe water for Iowans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release from the utility also pointed to a recent study, commissioned by Polk County, that evaluated water quality issues in the rivers. It said the report confirmed what Des Moines Water Works has shared for years nitrate concentrations in the Des Moines and Raccoon rivers are increasing. Des Moines Water Works is not the only group concerned about water quality. Citizen groups and environmental groups, including Iowa Environmental Council have also been outspoken about disapproval with the EPAs decision. Colleen Fowle, the water program director with Iowa Environmental Council, said this summer provided a clear picture of the consequences of high nitrate in our drinking water sources. Iowans across the state have been concerned about nitrate in drinking water on all the rivers that EPA has decided to remove from the impaired waters list, Fowle said in a statement. All have regularly exceeded the drinking water standard, but not all the cities relying on them have treatment systems to remove nitrate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other river segments were on the Cedar River, Iowa River and the South Skunk River. Fowle said DNRs evaluation of the impairments looked at a short-term measure, rather than long-term data. Looking at only a few years makes no sense for pollutants that can differ from year to year based on streamflow, Fowle said. The long-term data show that safe drinking water is at risk. That is precisely what the water quality standard is meant to protect and the reason why these waters need to be listed as impaired. Iowa Environmental Councils General Counsel Michael Schmidt said called the rescission unprecedented and misguided. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We call on EPA and DNR to engage in a public process and bring Iowans together to address nitrate concerns that threaten the health and economic wellbeing of people across Iowa, rather than taking action behind closed doors, Schmidt said. DNR declined to comment on the decision. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Thursday that the Baker County Correctional Institution will become Floridas second immigration detention facility, replacing plans for Camp Blanding. The decision to use a portion of the empty Baker County facility, which was vacated in 2021, was driven by cost considerations and existing infrastructure, allowing the state to operationalize the facility within two weeks at a cost of $6 million, DeSantis said. We have what we want at Alligator Alcatraz, said DeSantis, emphasizing the demand for additional detention capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Baker County Correctional Institution will have the capacity to house over 1,300 detainees and will be staffed by contractors and the National Guard, DeSantis said. The facility requires upgrades, including air conditioning, to meet federal standards, but its existing infrastructure makes it a cost-effective choice, DeSantis said adding that the federal government will reimburse the $6 million cost to bring the facility online. The decision was not influenced by a federal court order blocking new construction at the Everglades detention center, according to the Governor. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) on Thursday teased plans to open a second migrant detention facility in the Sunshine State despite pushback over Alligator Alcatraz. DeSantis said the Baker Correctional Institution, a state prison about 43 miles west of downtown Jacksonville, Fla., will now hold migrants awaiting deportation, according to The Associated Press. The move comes just weeks after the state opened its Alligator Alcatraz facility in the Everglades. Its construction was spurred by President Trumps crackdown on illegal immigration. Trump, along with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem, visited the center last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a demand for this. Im confident that it will be filled, DeSantis said in his announcement Thursday, referring to the new center as Deportation Depot. Development of the new facility could cost up to $6 million, despite the preexisting structure, he added. It currently features 1,300 beds but officials in the state are looking to add at least 700 more. The proposal comes as federal judges weigh legal challenges to Alligator Alcatraz, including whether a government agency or private contractor has the legal authority to detain people or act as an immigration enforcement officer and if its construction complies with federal environmental laws. Last month, the governor said he hoped Florida would be used as the force multiplier for deportations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont want it to be where illegals are just stored there, and then just kind of sitting. I want it to be where illegals are here, theres an aggressive processing and an aggressive deportation schedule, he said. The Trump administration has also been in contact with other GOP governors about similar construction projects in other states, according to Noem. While a list of potential states has not been provided, DHS announced a partnership with Indiana to build the Speedway Slammer, a facility that would be located about 65 miles north of Indianapolis. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) just last month launched grant program that will offer funding to states to build detention centers. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 electric vehicle charger mounted outside Green Wave, an EV dealership in North Hampton, New Hampshire. (Photo by Lauren McCauley/ Maine Morning Star) The head of the agency spearheading Maines energy efficiency efforts is still hopeful about the long term shift to battery-powered and low-emission vehicles, which are a key aspect of the states climate goals, despite the loss of a federal tax credit and projected cost increases due to tariffs. Im cautiously optimistic, said Michael Stoddard, executive director of Efficiency Maine, the quasi-state agency that implements energy efficiency programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The series of federal policy changes including a sunset of tax credits and increased tariffs on parts and products made overseas will make the widespread adoption of combustion engine vehicles to electric and battery powered vehicles (commonly referred to as EVs) more challenging, Stoddard said. However, he also believes manufacturers will continue to improve EV options and find ways to lower prices as the rest of the world moves toward this technology. Federal and state incentive programs have helped the states goal to put 150,000 light-duty electric vehicles on Maine roads by 2030 outlined in the climate action plan, given that transportation is responsible for nearly half of the states carbon emissions. One major incentive has been federal tax credits, which were set to expire in 2032, but will now end on Sept. 30 due to a provision in President Donald Trumps sweeping tax cut and spending law. Vehicles must be acquired by that date to qualify for the New Clean Vehicle Credit, which offers up to $7,500 for new battery electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles, or the Used Clean Vehicle Credit, which offers up to $4,000 for used electric or hybrid vehicles. While Stoddard said there isnt data from this calendar year to see how consumers have reacted since that measure was signed into law on July 4, data shows increased demand for EVs at the end of 2024, which precipitated a change in state incentive programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, Efficiency Maine launched an EV rebate program that offered up to $2,000 for the purchase of a new electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid to Mainers of any income. The rebate amount increased to $7,500 for low-income consumers and included an option to get some money back for purchasing a used hybrid or electric vehicle. But in November 2024, Efficiency Maine had to stop issuing rebates except for those designated for low-income customers because it exhausted the $13.5 million provided for the program. However, Efficiency Maine will soon resume offering rebates thanks to a new law that allows the agency to tap into a new revenue stream, Stoddard said. This summer Gov. Janet Mills signed LD 585 into law, which allows Efficiency Maine more flexibility in using certain funds that are currently only used for subsidizing heat pumps. The new law removes those limitations so the specific revenue, known as forward capacity market funds, can be used for electric vehicles as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resumed rebate program will look different than before, Stoddard explained. Consumers are required to purchase an off-peak charger to receive the incentive. A discount is available on the agencys website, which brings the cost of the charger to $129. Stoddard said this will ensure that most charging for those EVs will happen when the electrical grid has plenty of capacity. Whether it happens in the next two years or the next five years is not so important, I think its just important that we keep moving in the right direction. Michael Stoddard, Efficiency Maine There are also limitations as to who can access the incentive program, which will be available to businesses, nonprofits, government entities and low- and moderate-income households. Low-income households can receive $7,500 for a new vehicle and $3,500 for a used one, while all other groups will receive $2,000 for new and $1,500 for used vehicles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stoddard acknowledged that there will always be a percentage of the population that doesnt make the shift, but he thinks that despite the recent federal policy changes, sooner or later most Mainers and the rest of the country will switch. He also pointed out that the expansion of charging infrastructure, decreased battery costs, as well as more variety in electric vehicle type from pickup trucks to vans could all contribute to people continuing to veer away from gasoline-powered cars. Whether it happens in the next two years or the next five years is not so important, I think its just important that we keep moving in the right direction, he said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE After getting fined for her environmental protest against a road being built through a national park near Moscow, Irina Kuriseva is back to check on the construction. "We only want to defend nature," the 62-year-old told AFP at the Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island) park, a 129-square-kilometre nature reserve with hundreds of species of wildlife including endangered birds. With dissident voices in Russia almost totally silenced and as the country presses on with its massive military offensive in Ukraine, environmental activism has become highly risky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The authorities have become completely indifferent" and laws have been "softened" in favour of polluters and property developers, said one activist, speaking on condition of anonymity. In the outskirts of Moscow, the issue has become particularly acute as developers continue to build new homes and residents commuting to the capital find themselves stuck in traffic jams for hours. In Korolyov, a town of 200,000 people, the authorities decided to build a highway that passes through the national park to ease congestion and give access to a new housing development. In July, Kuriseva and five other activists blocked machinery spreading asphalt in the forest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were arrested by police and fined, after spending a night at the police station. "We were interrogated like criminals who had killed someone," said Kuriseva, a local resident. Russian law prohibits construction in national parks but local authorities got around it by arguing that the project consisted of "repairs" to an existing road. Dmitry Trunin, an environmental defence lawyer with more than 25 years of experience, said this argument amounted to "falsification and fraud". "There was never a road there," he said, explaining that there had only been an unpaved track used by forest rangers which then became just a path through the forest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kuriseva said that "asphalt powder" was placed on the path in an attempt to classify it as a road. The highway is due to be completed by March 2026 at a cost of 5.4 million euros ($6.3 million), according to the regional transport ministry. - 'Don't get the president involved' - Mikhail Rogov, a 36-year-old engineer who also took part in the protest with Kuriseva, said the judge was "smiling" to the defendants in court. "She told us: 'If you don't want any problems, sign these papers, pay your fines and you're free'," he said. The judge, Maria Loktionova, had in 2023 sentenced another environmental activist, Alexander Bakhtin, to six years in prison for three posts on social media criticising the Russian offensive in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the crackdown on dissent, activists opposed to the highway have sought to appeal to President Vladimir Putin to help their cause. In June, around a thousand people queued outside the presidential administration building in Moscow to submit their complaints. Putin visited the national park in 2010 and fed a baby elk with a bottle, telling reporters that nature was "a gift from God" that must be "protected". The tone from the Kremlin is very different in 2025. "This is a question for the regional authorities. Don't get the president involved," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in July when asked about the project by AFP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Environmental protection "should not be a barrier to development and the comfort of the lives of citizens," he said. Trunin said it has become "harder and harder to defend the truth in court". "The power vertical takes decisions and law enforcement and monitoring bodies obey," he said. bur/giv ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) A shooting near Kirtland Air Force Base in February raised questions about why military police shot and killed one of their own airmen. Now, newly released documents are shedding light on what led up to that shooting. He panicked and then he ran onto public property and we know they chased him, chased him down, hunted him down like a wild animal, said Joseph Marrone, Attorney and Founder of Marrone Law Firm. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a shooting left an airman dead, his familys attorney said theyre seeking justice. Brion Teel Scott, 28, was shot and killed outside the Kirtland Air Force Base Truman Gate in February when a confrontation escalated into a chase and then a shooting. Albuquerque police were not involved in the shooting, but responded to the scene afterwards. According to their reports, Teel Scott was trying to enter the base when security forces realized his cars registration had expired. Security forces began searching the car and found a bag of marijuana in the truck under a spare tire. When they told Scott he was going to be detained, the police report said he ran away with seven military police officers in pursuit. The attorney for Teel Scotts family said surveillance video shows he tried to surrender. We know that he reached the Taco Bell, and he was cornered. We know that he shouted out for help, we know that he wanted to turn himself over to the Albuquerque Police Department, we know he surrendered, said Marrone. But APDs report said thats when things escalated, and Teel Scott fired a gun at the military police, and they returned fire, shooting and killing Teel Scott. The familys attorney said those officers fired over thirty rounds, with some bullets hitting a nearby apartment complex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the very least, they should have taken Brion into custody; he was looking to surrender, thats all. They shouldve let him walk out, and they shouldve brought him into custody, said Marrone. The attorney said they are planning civil action, adding they have not heard directly from Kirtland Air Force Base or received any apology. They said they want justice and for the officers involved to be court-martialed. For them to not be able to make a decision in I dont know, seven months is very disappointing and disturbing. I mean, this is our military, we put our belief in the military, said Marrone. Kirtland Air Force Base released the following statement: We recognize the public concern surrounding the events involving Airman Brion Teel-Scott. This incident remains under investigation by the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), and we urge the community to avoid drawing conclusions based on preliminary accounts. Kirtlands commitment remains to truth, justice, and the fair treatment of all individuals involved. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. China rolls out 1.15 bln yuan for disaster prevention in agricultural production Xinhua) 08:29, August 14, 2025 BEIJING, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- China has allocated 1.15 billion yuan (about 162 million U.S. dollars) to support agricultural disaster prevention and mitigation in major grain-producing regions, the Ministry of Finance said on Wednesday. The fund from the central budget will back 13 major grain-producing provincial-level regions in implementing spraying technologies during autumn grain production to better prevent disasters, mitigate risks and stabilize yields. The fund will subsidize the spraying of plant growth regulators, foliar fertilizers, fungicides and insecticides on autumn crops such as corn, soybeans and rice -- to help ensure a bumper harvest this year. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) OCBC Bank was well ahead of its time in 2018 when it set up a dedicated AI lab probably one of the first banks globally to do so. According to Donald McDonald, OCBCs Managing Director and Head of Group Data: It was 2017, 2018 when we realised that AI was going to be big and that we should have a dedicated function that is focused on it. McDonald spoke about the companys AI journey during a panel discussion at Clouderas EVOLVE25 event in Singapore. Later, McDonald spoke to ITWire about the Singaporean multinational banking and financial services shift from a traditional data warehouse to one of Asia-Pacifics most advanced banks. Initially we were a traditional data warehouse, but we realised around 2015 it had limitations, he said. It was very costly to bring in new data sources. That first 10 years, we probably took in 50 systems. And now in the past 10 years, we brought an additional 300 because the Cloudera platform allows us to bring in the data much, much faster, much, much cheaper. McDonald credits Cloudera as a turning point in OCBCs data evolution. Cloudera for us was fundamental in allowing us to unlock the value from the data. Now it's all about unstructured data, which, again, a traditional data warehouse couldn't handle. McDonald says AI has fundamentally changed OCBCs operations and customer interactions. AI is mission critical, he says. Were running the core processes of the bank. AI is handling like one in three [calls] in the contact centre. Anti money laundering, know your customer, credit scoring, fraud detection - the fundamental things that are driving the bank. OCBCs first major AI use case targeted compliance inefficiencies, particularly in anti-money laundering alerts. Every month we were getting12,000 alerts with each one taking 40 minutes to investigate and 98% were false positives. We used AI to look at the alerts and rank them. For high risk we go and investigate immediately. The bottom 40% we close and dont even look at. McDonald said this approach created major productivity gains. The gains were great but at the same time it repositioned the team in the eyes of the business. Suddenly we werent just doing fluffy marketing anymore. We were working on material things. OCBCs AI use cases now span KYC, credit card fraud detection, scam detection, and even predicting customer vulnerability to different scams. We predict which of our customers might be vulnerable to getting scammed - is it a job scam, an investment scam, a love scam? McDonald believes AI will reshape not just bank operations, but customer engagement models. He envisions a near future where banking becomes conversational and proactive. I think AI is going to change the way that people interact with banks. For the past 15 years you've been interacting with banks by tapping on the phone. But I think AI is going to move from tapping to talking. I'm imagining a situation where we're going to move to a world, maybe not two years from now, but five years from now, where you can wake up in the morning and you can just say, hey OCBC what happened in the market last night? Because we are constantly scanning the market, they can come back and say well, there was volatility, and NVIDIA went up. And I just say, what should I do? Because the agent knows my profile, my equity preferences, my risk appetite it says, hey, I think you should do this and this and this. You say OK do it and behind the scenes the AI agents take over. They go rebalance your portfolio. By the time you go to work, it's all done. Asked about the banking sector leading the way when it comes to AI, McDonald said: I'd say banking is the one that's probably pushing the boundaries. Interestingly, when we started building the AI Lab, we hired our talent from tech companies. A lot of the people in the tech companies would look at the bank saying, I don't want to go the bank. You don't have interesting use cases. You guys are so far behind. But over the years people have realised that the banks are the ones with probably the richest data sets because every interaction you have with the bank is giving us real insight into your lives. McDonald said OCBC used AI in virtually all facets of the business. Consumer banking was really where we started. They were the first one to really adopt this. But in the past five years, I've also seen the corporate banking side come on board too. They're also looking to do things like personalisation for their customers, saying, hey, are you aware of this service? Or do you want to increase your loan? Also, a lot of the corporate banking processes have historically been quite paper based. You want to get a business loan you fill in all of this paperwork and provide your statement of accounts. At the back end, there would be people reading that stuff and taking information and approving the loan. But AI can handle that kind of information because it can now read the documents. It can extract it automatically. It can write the memo justifying why we should give this person credit. So, a lot of those back office processes can now be automated with AI so it helps everyone, not just consumer, but every part of the business. McDonald believes OCBC is setting the pace in the region. We were the first bank to invest in data. We were the first bank to have a dedicated AI function. And I think if you look at the GenAI boom, weve really been leading the charge. Banks, he said, now rival tech firms for top talent. We hired our talent from tech companies but now data scientists are saying, actually, the banks are probably one of the most interesting places to go because you can do this at scale in production and generate very significant value. Parents, staff and community members listen while Focus: HOPE Chief Executive Officer Portia Roberson addresses them about the organization being denied federal funding on Aug. 12, 2025. (Martin Slagter / For Chalkbeat) This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for Chalkbeat Detroits free newsletter to keep up with the citys public school system and Michigan education policy. Kyra OGuinn and her young family have relied heavily on Focus: HOPEs Early Head Start programming to help raise their daughter since she was just 4 months old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that safety net was eliminated when the longtime Detroit nonprofit announced that it has not received federal Head Start funding for the 202526 school year. The closure of the Head Start program affects more than 300 Detroit-area children like OGuinns, leaving her and other parents scrambling for alternative arrangements while as many as 70% of its 107 early learning staff members face layoffs, said Portia Roberson, CEO of Focus: HOPE, which provides early learning, job training, and food support to families. For 10 years, Focus: HOPEs Head Start programs were funded through a relationship with Starfish Family Services. Focus: HOPE was a subrecipient of a grant Starfish received from the federal government to provide the program. Last year, though, the two organizations agreed to apply for the funding individually, meaning Focus: HOPE would have to seek the federal money on its own. That funding request was formally rejected last week without explanation. It isnt clear whether the decision is connected to the uncertainty facing Head Start nationally due to the Trump administrations temporary pause of funding and the closure of regional offices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OGuinn and her husband both work, and shes also pursuing a degree in marketing and public relations. She said its difficult to consider next steps for their now 3-year-old daughter and another younger child with no nearby options for child care or family to pitch in. To take something away like this from us and our neighborhoods is you telling us that you want us to continue to be underserviced, OGuinn said during a Focus: HOPE town hall hosted on Tuesday. It left us empty-handed, and we really needed that support. The loss of funding affects families in Detroits 48202, 48206, 48211, and 48238 ZIP codes, which are located in city neighborhoods like Midtown and Forest Park and includes neighboring cities like Hamtramck. In addition to having one of the highest rates of poverty in the state, three of the four ZIP codes were characterized as having insufficient licensed child care access, with three or more children for each available slot, according to data analyzed by Boston Universitys Child Opportunity Index. Roberson said Focus: HOPE will continue to operate some of its early childhood programming through state funding it receives for 4-year-olds enrolled in its Great Start Readiness Program, or GSRP, Michigans free prekindergarten program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the meantime, Roberson encouraged parents attending the town hall to advocate for restoring the agencys federally funded programming provided by Head Start, designed to promote school readiness for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers from families that meet income eligibility requirements. Roberson said Focus: HOPE plans to work with the city of Detroit, community partners, and other child care providers in the area to figure out where children can enroll without significant disruption. In addition to educating children through its preschool program for 4-year-olds, Focus: HOPEs early learning programs provided more than 250 mothers with peer-to-peer support for pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and early parenting all services impacted by not receiving the grant. Were actively working to figure out how many classes we can run with some of the other funding we receive, Roberson said. Were looking for other funding sources so that we can try to serve as many of those 300 children as possible and then pivoting and trying to figure out where are some affordable, solid places that we can send other children that parents can access easily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision to seek the Head Start funding independently came because Starfish Family Services had indicated it no longer wanted to serve as a grantee with subrecipients, Roberson said. Starfish Family Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Focus: HOPE applied for the funding on its own in December, Roberson said, while continuing to operate under the Starfishs grant funding that ran through the end of July. Expecting to hear from the federal government early in the year, Roberson said she first was updated in March that there could be a delay in decisions on funding due to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Head Start announcing it was shutting down five regional offices. She said she contacted Michigan U.S. Sens. Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin, both Democrats, in June to see if they could find out more after hearing rumors that some organizations might not be receiving funding. Late last week, Roberson said she was informed by the federal Administration of Children and Families, which is part of the Department of Health and Human Services, that it had not received funding, but that Starfish and MiSide, another Detroit agency, had. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We really dont know why, because, to be honest, while it was a competitive grant process, it was not competitive in the sense that anyone else was applying to service the kids in the four ZIP codes we were currently servicing, Roberson said. So, essentially, by not funding us, it wasnt as if they said, Oh, we think that the application from some other organization was a better application, and were sending the kids there. They just said were not going to service you in these ZIP codes. Officials from the Health and Human Services department didnt respond to a request for comment. I dont need a day care I want her to be learning Roberson said Focus: HOPE applied for 100 additional Head Start slots and $14 million in total federal funding to serve around 400 children, a significant increase from the $6 million it operated on this past year. The intention, she said, was to see if it could accommodate children who were on a wait list. We were hoping this would be our opportunity to grow our program a little bit and have even more students participate in a Head Start program, she said. This obviously is not that and its going to be a significant hit to our overall Focus: HOPE budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After enrolling her 4-year-old daughter in the Head Start program through Focus: HOPE a few months back, parent Sade Walker said she was concerned about having to potentially find a new place for her daughter this fall. Though the Great Start Readiness Program might still be an option this fall, Walker said shes concerned about receiving the news so close to the beginning of the school year. Its probably going to be hard to find a school, Walker said. I dont need a day care or a babysitter. I want her to be learning. Head Start overall has been dealing with uncertainty, beginning in January when the Trump administration paused federal funding for the program via an administrative order. That pause was eventually rescinded, but a later decision to shut down five regional offices raised more concerns. One of the regional offices that closed was in Chicago, which oversaw Head Start centers in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement about the closure of the Focus: HOPE programs, Peters said Head Start provides Michigan families with access to early childhood education while helping parents enter and stay in the workforce. Thats why we must ensure that every single community in our state receives the funding needed to administer this important program and support our working families, Peter said in the statement. Ill keep working to ensure Focus: HOPE can continue serving children and families in Detroit. Democratic U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar, who attended Tuesdays town hall, said the decision not to fund Focus: HOPE Head Start programming in some of the poorest ZIP codes in the country is another example of the administrations reverse Robin Hood approach of taking from people who need it and giving it to billionaires. We cannot rest, he said, until this is reversed. Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools. One hundred years ago, prominent Black physician Dr. Ossian Sweet moved into a home in a majority-white neighborhood on Detroit's east side, and soon faced racism in the form of an angry mob. But now, the historic home faces something beautiful and meaningful: The city's newest park. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, family members and the community gathered nearby to unveil the Dr. Ossian Sweet Memorial Park, honoring his legacy. Sweet's family moved into the home at 2905 Garland St. in September 1925 and soon faced a racial incident that would eventually lead to the dismantling of discriminatory housing policies. The family defended themselves against an angry mob of hundreds of people who surrounded the house, throwing rocks and threatening the family, Duggan said. The Sweet family defended themselves by firing shots and killing one of the agitators, which led to a murder trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While in law school, Duggan studied the case. Later, he became the Wayne County prosecutor and said the fact that the prosecutor's office had prosecuted the Sweet family in the 1920s, "to me, was one of the great injustices of the office. I pushed, in those years, to have the historic marker ... that marker was not placed there (at the house) until the early 2000s, when we pushed for it. We were not keeping alive, as far as I was concerned, the memory of what happened." "Of course, the police didn't arrest any of the people of the mob. They arrested all the members of the family," Duggan said. "Ultimately, after a hung jury, in the second case, Dr. Ossian Sweet's brother Henry was acquitted by an all-white jury, who concluded that every person has a right to defend their home. They changed the history of neighborhoods across the city, and really, across the country." Defense attorney Clarence Darrow, brought in by the NAACP to defend the family, used the trial to tackle the issue of an individual's right to defend their home, along with the nation's discriminatory housing polices, attracting the national spotlight to Detroit, Duggan said. Now, the family of Daniel Baxter, Detroit's elections department's chief of operations, owns the home through his organization, the Ossian H. Sweet Foundation. Baxter was 10 years old when he began learning about the history of his home. His mother had a collection of newspaper articles about the Sweet family, which fascinated Baxter at a young age. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I went back into the kitchen to my mother and I said, 'Ma, did that really happen?' She said, 'Yes baby, it sure did.' I said, 'Well mama, one day, one day, I'm going to do something to make sure that everybody in the world knows what happened on the corner of Garland and Charlevoix,'" Baxter said. The city spent $1 million of the America Rescue Plan Act money to renovate the lots next to Sweets home on Garland Street. Detroits general services departments landscape design unit aimed to tell the historic accounts of the deadly night through "symbolic designs and interpretive signage," according to the city. The planter boxes represent the foundations of neighboring homes when the Sweets moved in back in 1925, and the wood-style pavers are intended to evoke "a feeling of stepping into a home." Jackie Spotts, Sweet's niece, thanked Duggan for bringing the project to fruition. Spotts grew up with Sweet's mother, who looked after her "because my mother was here during the time helping them during the trial. At this time, she contracted tuberculosis but she didn't know it at the time. After she had me and my brother, she passed away. So I was reared by the same woman who reared him," Spotts said. "Dr. Sweet fought each and every day that he could for civil rights. He never stopped," Spotts said, describing him as an organizer. "New Year's Day, you knew to go to the ballpark because he was going to read out the (Emancipation Proclamation). And he got the people to come hear him do this every year and talk about the importance of voting in politics, and he got them there, because he fed them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scott Talley: Love for their city and former schools inspire Detroiters with priorities for a new mayor More: DNR seeks public input on prioritizing future Belle Isle improvements Jacqueline Spotts, niece of Dr. Ossian Sweet, speaks during the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Dr. Ossian Sweet Memorial Park in Detroit on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. The park also features memorial trees to honor the 11 people Sweet, his wife Gladys, his brothers and several friends in the home when the incident occured. Two elm trees at the entrance of the park represent Dr. Ossian Sweet and his wife Gladys Sweet, according to the city, and a large legacy oak tree represents their daughter Iva Sweet, who was months old when the event took place and died at two, from tuberculosis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city is also renovating three vacant homes across the street from the Sweet Home, as well as one at the opposite end of the park, to match the style of 1925 and extend the landscape honoring Sweet's family. The home underwent a restoration project to open as a public museum and is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a registered Michigan State Historical Site. And for decades before the park was in place, the Sweets' story made its mark on the community. Before the Rev. James Curenton was ordained in 1981, his thirst for history as an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan inspired him to take a graduate history course taught by Harold Cruse, who helped to create the universitys Center for Afro American and African Studies. Curenton, the senior pastor of Mayflower Congregational Church of Christ in Detroits Bagley Community, says the Dr. Ossian Sweet Memorial Park represents a classroom of a different kind that has the power to educate and even steer the future of the community in a positive way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are white suburban kids that have never heard the stories about violence being inflicted upon Black people in Detroit, said Curenton, who also serves as a board chairman for Evangelical Homes of Michigan and MOSES, a community-organizing nonprofit that serves Detroit residents. However, there also are Black youths right here in Detroit that havent learned about this history either because we havent done a good job of telling these stories. Scripture says: You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. So, this park has an important role to play in the healing of our city because real change and reconciliation cannot take place without knowledge of the truth. Therefore, at a time when efforts are being made to shut down the study of our history, Im hoping that the park will educate our entire region and amplify the truth in a way that resets the narrative and prevents us from making some of the mistakes of the past. Ossian Sweet Like Curenton, 91-year-old Dr. William Jackson believes in the power of history, and during the late evening of August 12, just hours before the official opening of the Dr. Ossian Sweet Memorial Park, Jackson pointed to a part of Sweets legacy that is connected to another proud tradition. For our community, its very valuable to receive lessons about Dr. Ossian Sweet because his life is a reminder that medical doctors in Detroit have historically functioned in all capacities of life, said Jackson, who serves as board secretary for the Detroit Medical Society, which has waged a scientific, medical, social, civic, economic, physical and spiritual battle for equal opportunity and equal access to healthcare in Detroit since 1917. Medical doctors not only serve their patients, we also are citizens. And Dr. Sweet exercised and defended his rights in a way that helped us to move forward as a community and as a nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana. Scott Talley is a native Detroiter, a proud product of Detroit Public Schools and a lifelong lover of Detroit culture in its diverse forms. In his second tour with the Free Press, which he grew up reading as a child, he is excited and humbled to cover the citys neighborhoods and the many interesting people who define its various communities. Contact him at stalley@freepress.com or follow him on Twitter @STalleyfreep. Read more of Scott's stories at www.freep.com/mosaic/detroit-is/. Please help us grow great community-focused journalism by becoming a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit unveils educational park named after Dr. Ossian Sweet Related video: KNWA/FOX24s Reagan Wynn talks Devils Den double homicide on NewsNations Banfield FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) Andrew James McGann, the man accused of killing two people at Devils Den State Park in July, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges. McGann, 28, is charged with two counts of capital murder connected to the stabbing deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, from Prairie Grove, at the West Fork park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment at the Washington County Detention Center on Thursday morning. Washington County Judge Joanna Taylor scheduled McGanns next hearing for Nov. 14. A court order filed by Taylor on Aug. 13 barred any recording devices from being in the courtroom. McGanns arraignment lasted around 30 minutes and as his team of public defenders left the jail, KNWA/FOX24s questions were met with complete silence. KNWA/FOX24 spoke with Washington County Prosecuting Attorney Brandon Carter after the arraignment. Carter said that McGann showed very little emotion and had little to say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carter said he expects a gag order to be set in the case, given the national attention it has received. McGann made his initial court appearance on Aug. 1, where he was appointed a public defender. Trial delayed for Fayetteville man accused of fatally attacking unhoused resident, injuring another Carter requested during the Aug. 1 hearing that McGann have no contact with the victims family. McGann was ordered to be held without bond. McGanns arraignment was originally scheduled for Aug. 25, but was moved up 11 days. Carter has said that the state has not ruled out the death penalty in the case against McGann. Case background Arkansas State Police previously said that McGann confessed to the killings and that DNA found at the crime scene matched his. ASP said the attack on the couple was random. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary report from the Washington County Prosecuting Attorneys Office said dispatch received a 911 call from Devils Den State Park on July 26 from someone saying they found two bodies on a trail, and a large amount of blood was present. The hiker found two girls and led them off the trail before attempting to look for their parents. That hiker then found the bodies of the parents on the trail, according to the report. ASP investigators arrived at the park and interviewed a person at the park who said they saw someone get into a black sedan with blood on his face and drive away onto State Highway 170. A second witness said the black sedan was a Kia Stinger. On July 28, an autopsy was performed on the two victims bodies, and preliminary findings showed both victims died in a homicide by stabbing wounds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 30, police located the suspects vehicle at Lupitas Beauty Salon in Springdale around 4:58 p.m. Former Springdale bank worker accused of fraud, stealing money from customers waives arraignment Investigators walked into the barber shop and asked about the vehicle in the parking lot. A man who was receiving a haircut, later identified as McGann, said he owned the vehicle. The report said investigators noted that while speaking with McGann, they saw cuts on his hands. McGann was then detained, and investigators entered his vehicle with his consent to get his ID. Once investigators got into McGanns vehicle, they found a substance appearing to be blood inside the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGanns vehicle was then seized and taken to Arkansas State Police Troop L Headquarters in Lowell. McGann was taken to ASPs headquarters to be interviewed, and he made statements indicating he had committed two homicides. Authorities in two states have looked into possible connections between McGann and other unsolved murder cases. Vermont State Police said on Aug. 7 that the department found no known link between McGann and an unsolved homicide case involving Honoree Fleming or Vermont in general. Authorities in Wisconsin are also reviewing possible connections between a 2020 unsolved stabbing at Devils Lake State Park and Devils Den State Park double homicide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KNWA/FOX24 has been reporting on the Devils Den homicides and related developments since we first broke the story. Click here to view the complete timeline. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- In the church, a cup of coffee is taken as a gesture of hospitality. In many cases, it acts as an invitation to come together as a community. Simple, yet meaningful. Thats exactly what Devoted Grind is. WATCH: Devoted Grinds full story We wanted something that would bring God into somebodys life while theyre reaching for their cup of coffee, said co-owner Clarissa Fuentes. And so with doing that, we have our Bible verses on our cups. And so that actually draws people into reading the word first thing in the morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Originally operating on the go and via pop-ups, Devoted Grind transitioned to its own storefront in the fall of 2023. Co-owners Clarissa Fuentes and Nicole Dominguez originally were on two opposite career paths. Clarissa was managing local tanning salons while pursuing an education in nursing. Meanwhile, Nicole was working in the financial industry. Yet despite their different paths, God ultimately brought them together and had a different plan for them. And it was that leap of faith that brought them to where they are today. Honestly, at the time when we started this, it was right after COVID, and my son was really young, and I didnt know if I wanted to be in nursing and just be in all that craziness in the world at the time. And so when Nicole asked me, it was like God was kind of like, you know, heres your opportunity. He was like, you know, there is more out there than just going to school. Like, I love science and being into nursing and all that, but just because I loved it, thats probably not where I needed to be or where I was needed. Devoted Grind offers a multitude of items, including smoothies, refreshers, energy drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and many more coffee-based items. Yet at the end of the day, Devoted Grind is much more than just your average coffee shop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a safe space, said co-owner Nicole Dominguez. And even if youre not a believer, even if you dont know who Jesus is and you dont have a walk with him, that doesnt mean that you cant come here and be loved. Because no matter what, we love God, and we love people. And there are some tough people to love. But we still love God and love people. And I think thats the whole point in this: letting people know youre safe to come in here. The shop continues to display that throughout the community by attending local markets and events, as well as providing worship nights. We really try to be involved in the community as much as we can and as much as people want us to. Owners Q&A What is your most popular menu item? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Probably the brown sugar oat. Either that one or the cinnamon roll and food-wise, I would say the jalapeno popper with an egg. What is your go-to order? Clarissa: So, mines the breakfast nuggets, and then I just like the black cold brew; its my favorite. Nicole: Mine would be the sausage doughboy. Its a buttermilk biscuit. Its really soft and flaky. Its just really good. And then my drink, Id probably say the Old Faithful, which is a white chocolate mocha. Devoted Grind Details Business Hours Monday-Friday: 6a.m.-5p.m. Saturday: 7a.m.-4p.m. Sunday: CLOSED Devoted Grind is located at 1831 87th St., Suite 1, Odessa, TX. You can contact them at (432) 614-1699 or visit their website here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WATCH: Devoted Grinds full story Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Yourbasin. Sen. Tou Xiong, DFL-Maplewood, right, discusses Senate business with Sen. Foung Hawj, DFL-Saint Paul), during a floor session Tuesday, April 30. (Photo by Catherine Davis/Minnesota Senate Media Services) State Sen. Tou Xiong, DFL-Maplewood, was arrested and booked into Ramsey County Jail at 3:52 a.m. on Aug. 14 on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. This is Xiongs second arrest while in office. He pleaded guilty to DWI charges in 2022 and was ordered to a year of probation and a $288 fine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement provided by a DFL spokesperson, Xiong said he was driving home from a family gathering when he was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. I take full responsibility for my actions, and sincerely apologize to my constituents and the people Ive let down, Xiong said. I want to thank law enforcement for doing their job to keep the roads safe. Today, I have begun the work of talking to my family and to my Senate colleagues about the situation. A state trooper stopped a Honda CR-V in the area of Highway 36 and McKnight Road in Maplewood after observing the car weaving out of its lane and not using a signal, according to State Patrol incident data. The driver was later identified as Xiong. State Patrol said Xiong provided a breath test indicating a blood alcohol content of .09 .01 over the legal limit. He was booked on suspicion of 3rd degree DWI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No criminal charges related to Xiongs arrest had been filed as of early afternoon Thursday. A spokesperson for State Patrol said the department submitted charges to the Maplewood prosecutors office. Xiong is chair of the Senate State and Local Government Committee. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2018. This article was updated at 3:11 p.m. with additional information from State Patrol. As it begins building the largest law enforcement agency in the country, the Department of Homeland Security has lately turned to social media to recruit immigration enforcement officers. These posts have been characterized as mean memes, or as another sign of the Trump regimes penchant for kitsch, but one particularly egregious example posted Monday shows quite clearly how meanness and kitsch are ideal vehicles for neo-Nazi messaging. Which way, American man? the @DHSgov account on X posted, along with an AI-sloppy cartoon of Uncle Sam considering competing road signs: Cultural Decline, Homeland, Invasion, Opportunity. Its a message meant to help the agency with its rapid recruitment of 14,050 new immigration enforcement agents, as decreed by Trump (and with new funding from Congress). The phrase is a nod to the 1978 book Which Way, Western Man?, a foundational text for white nationalists. The books most accessible edition was published by the neo-Nazi press National Vanguard Books, which was founded by William Luther Pierce III, the author of the racist dystopian novel The Turner Diaries. Elements of The Turner Diaries fascist climax, the Day of the Rope, made their way into the far-right imaginary, and into the shape of the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021. This was hardly the first time DHS drew on such tropes. At Religion Dispatches, Annika Brockschmidt and Thomas Lecaque, both experts on the far right, likened the agencys recent posts to firehosing the internet with white supremacist propaganda. A July 28 post tells EVERY CRIMINAL ILLEGAL IN AMERICA that they represent an existential threat to the citizens of the United States. It follows the announcement with an unsettling, melodramatic video of men in tactical gear, cradling their weapons in slow motion, with an aesthetic that recalls 2022s The Batman. (The video even appropriated a bleak monologue from the film as its voiceover.) Five days earlier came a message that was almost camp in its execution: A Heritage to be proud of, a Homeland worth Defending, the post reads, illustrated by a paintingJohn Gasts American Progress, from 1872featuring a sunny, milk-fed, blond giant leading settlers in covered wagons as they chase off a group of Indigenous people, rendered under shadowy storm clouds. Worse, the caption DHS provided appeared to nod to a neo-Nazi slogan, We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children. When asked about the post by Zeteo writer Prem Thakker, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin replied, This administration is unapologetically proud of American history and American heritage. Get used to it. Indeed, DHS has previously promoted itself with other paintings linking its operations to American manifest destiny and small-town Americana. Seeing a federal agency openly circulate racist and antisemitic propaganda as intentionally edgy content is disturbing enough. But such a recruitment drive is also coming from an agency that is (or was, under previous administrations) tasked with keeping tabs on white nationalist groups. What this latest propaganda wave from DHS reveals, in part, is an agency that has been weaponized for the Trump administrations political purposes. But DHS didnt reluctantly acquiesce to that weaponization, as has sometimes been presumed. Instead, it eagerly assimilated MAGAs mass deportation mission, adopted its language, and became its standard-bearer online. The shift is, unfortunately, not so shocking, given the agencys history. From its very origins, DHS has repeatedly downplayed the threat of white nationalism while focusing its law enforcement power on groupsMuslims, immigrants, left-wing activistsit deemed a threat to an imaginary version of the ideal America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A skeptic might suggest that DHS simply doesnt know what its posts are invoking. But DHS ought to be familiar with such tropesand, especially, with The Turner Diaries and the neo-Nazi and white nationalist groups it has influenced. The text was reportedly one inspiration for the 1995 bombing of an Oklahoma City federal building, which was carried out by a white nationalist. In the past, the agency tracked domestic violent extremism and acknowledged that such groups ability to recruit and mobilize online was potentially making extremist individuals and groups more dangerous and the consequences of their violence more severe. This was the finding of a DHS analysts 2009 paper, which DHS subsequently repudiated before disbanding the team behind it. DHS is scoffing at the mission of doing domestic counterterrorism, as is Congress, the papers author, Daryl Johnson, told Spencer Ackerman at Wired in 2012. Johnson observed that although there had been numerous white supremacist attacks over the previous few years, there were no hearings about the rising white supremacist threatbut, he pointed out, they still hold hearings about Muslim extremism. Thats really what the Department of Homeland Security, under which Immigration and Customs Enforcement operates, was built for. It is a product of the American global war on terror, as well as one of its engines. Back in October 2001, Nation columnist Patricia J. Williams, a professor of law and philosophy at Northeastern University, noted that already the word homeland has burrowed its way into ordinary conversation and multiplied with astonishing rapidity. From the start, homeland sounded exclusionary and bombastic. I wonder about the line-drawing such an odd term was calculated to evoke, Williams wrote. Like the Bush teams attempt to sound epic? Like some effort to denationalize and fuse enemy status with that of domestic criminality? We are doubling back around the same circular path, where agencies such as DHS downplay white nationalist violence, both potential and actual, while they draw recruits from those same ranks. We have been here before. Recall the attack on Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017. Unite the Right was billed, accurately, as the largest gathering of the far-right in recent memory, wrote Shane Burley, author of Fascism Today, a full-force showing of a thousand white nationalists. The Department of Homeland Securitys Office of Intelligence and Analysis issued a bulletin on Unite the Right three days before the rally, which it called a free speech event. The DHS bulletin was very concerned about the presence of anarchist extremists at the rally. We assess that anarchist extremists use of violence as a means to oppose racism and white supremacist extremists preparation to counterattack anarchist extremists are the principal drivers of violence at recent white supremacist rallies, the bulletin stated. That is, DHS intelligence analysts saw anarchists as the primary aggressors and white supremacists as merely engaged in preparation to counterattack. Michael Gould-Wartofsky, an ethnographer of fascism, saw for himself, on the streets in Charlottesville on August 12, 2017, the results of such an assessment: Law enforcement acted accordingly, with the more than 1,000 officers on the scene opting to stand back and stand by (as Trump would instruct the Proud Boys to do on live TV in 2020)until it was too late. A man who had marched that day with the white nationalist group Vanguard America soon after deliberately drove his car through a group of anti-racist demonstrators who had gathered on the streets in opposition, injuring two dozen people and killing one: Heather Heyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin tried to dismiss Wireds reporting on the dehumanizing and sometimes white nationalist meme posts as a silly little story. When the White House responded, it did so in the memes own vernacular, with spokeswoman Abigail Jackson declaring that the administration wont apologize for posting banger memes. The message behind this ICE recruitment drive is so casually cruel that it seems like there must be more to it than just some guys got hired at DHS to riff on ideas from white nationalist accounts. What if DHS is acting like this because this is DHS, and to a certain extent, it has been primed for exactly this job? If the masked agents snatching people off the street didnt do it, DHSs unhinged posts should make clear how proud our government is of brutalizing and dehumanizing people, so proud it has to tell us constantly throughout the day that its doing it all for usand dont you want to join? A 45-year-old man, Wesley Steven Worl, was arrested in Tyler on August 7 after allegedly confronting two young girls near Andy Woods Elementary School while wearing only a diaper and a pacifier around his neck. Charged with criminal solicitation of a minor and criminal trespass, Worl is being held in Smith County Jail with bonds totaling $600,000. On July 29, the girls, one aged 11, were riding bikes and scooters in their neighborhood when they noticed a silver vehicle following them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a police affidavit, Worl stopped in the school parking lot, exited his vehicle wearing a diaper, and shouted, Goo goo ga ga, I need a diaper change, KLTV reported. He also allegedly asked, Will you change my diaper for me? The girls, described as visibly shaking and truly petrified, fled to a nearby home where a man and his son were in the garage. The girls, who skinned their knees in their haste, reported a scary man chasing them. The son searched for the vehicle while a woman in the home comforted the girls. Police later identified and arrested Worl at his workplace. The affidavit describes his actions as fetishistic and part of a pattern of predatory conduct dating back to 1999, per Fox 4 KDFW. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Worls criminal history includes multiple incidents: In September 1999, he was seen watching children at a daycare, claiming he was only changing his diaper. In April 2002, he was allegedly spotted peeping into apartment windows and, when questioned, admitted to observing children at another daycare, according to a police affidavit. In April 2005, he was sentenced to five years probation for stalking an ex-girlfriend. In August and November 2005, he received criminal trespass warnings for watching a woman near a pool and children from behind a tree. In July 2006, Worl was reported at a Walmart for suspicious behavior, claiming he was checking his diaper, leading to a seven-year prison sentence for the 2005 and 2006 cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November 2012, he was accused of exposing himself to a child at another Walmart, though he claimed he only showed his diaper. In October 2016, he was arrested for trespassing at Faulkner Park. In July 2025, surveillance cameras at Walmart captured Worl, previously banned from the store for exposing himself to a 12-year-old, prompting the store manager to pursue charges. Six men have been booked into the Collin County jail in recent weeks on allegations ranging from sexual assault to online solicitation of minors, with bonds in some cases set at hundreds of thousands of dollars. The following individuals were processed in late July and mid-August, listed in order by total bond amount. 1. Gang Li Total Bond: $250,000 Arrested: July 28, 2025 DOB: January 24, 1976 | Race: Asian | Gender: Male Height: 57 | Weight: 140 lbs | Eyes: Brown | Hair: Black Charges: Sexual Assault (Second-Degree Felony) $250,000 Immigration Detainer (Felony Unassigned) Bond Not Listed 2. Devine Jamual Watson Total Bond: $104,000 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arrested: August 1, 2025 DOB: March 24, 1986 | Race: Black | Gender: Male Height: 64 | Weight: 220 lbs | Eyes: Hazel | Hair: Brown Charges: Sexual Assault (Second-Degree Felony) $100,000 Additional Offense (Not Listed) $4,000 3. Carlos Wilfredo Cruz Rivera Total Bond: $75,000 Arrested: July 31, 2025 DOB: October 30, 1984 | Race: White | Gender: Male Height: 59 | Weight: 240 lbs | Eyes: Brown | Hair: Black Charge: Possession of Child Pornography 50 depictions or videos (First-Degree Felony) $75,000 4. Shelby Jerome Roberts Total Bond: Not Listed Arrested: July 30, 2025 DOB: October 9, 1985 | Race: Black | Gender: Male Height: 58 | Weight: 163 lbs | Eyes: Brown | Hair: Black Charge: Sexual Assault of a Child (Second-Degree Felony) Bond Not Listed 5. Jerrold Allen Total Bond: Not Listed Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arrested: August 1, 2025 DOB: April 29, 1984 | Race: White | Gender: Male Height: 59 | Weight: 300 lbs | Eyes: Brown | Hair: Brown Charges: Manufacture/Delivery of Controlled Substance PG1 4g<200g (First-Degree Felony) Bond Not Listed Online Solicitation of a Minor for Sexual Conduct (Second-Degree Felony) Bond Not Listed 6. Lake Jeffery Rudd Total Bond: Not Listed Arrested: August 13, 2025 DOB: October 6, 2000 | Race: White | Gender: Male Height: 58 | Weight: 147 lbs | Eyes: Brown | Hair: Black Charge: Online Solicitation of a Minor Under 14 (Second-Degree Felony) Bond Not Listed Each of these arrests was processed through the Collin County jail system. The Sheriffs Office continues to detain pretrial inmates as their cases proceed. Charges include some of the most serious offenses under Texas law, carrying potential sentences ranging from a few years to decades in prison, if convicted. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The charges described have been filed, but no convictions have been entered, and each case will move forward through the judicial system, where guilt or innocence will be determined. ROUTT COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) The Crosho Fire in Routt County has grown to more than 1,700 acres, forcing some ranchers to move livestock and leave their homes, and prompting Gov. Jared Polis to declare a disaster emergency for the incident. The flames are burning near the edge of the Flat Tops Wilderness, but the impact is being felt far beyond the forest. The area is home to active ranches, hay meadows and pasture land all now under threat. Rio Blanco County wildfire updates: Lee Fire hits Garfield County line, prompts evacuations Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The verbal declaration of a disaster emergency activates the State Emergency Operations and Resource Mobilization Plans, as well as authorizes the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to coordinate the state response. Additionally, Polis authorized the use of the Colorado National Guard and announced he will be at the Turner Gulch Command Center on Thursday. Its not just forest and land where cattle may be grazing, but some of these areas are some productive lands, including hay meadows and some private pasture lands, said Todd Hagenbuch, county director for CSU Extension in Routt County. So, getting animals out, of course, has been a big thrust. Of course, the people as well, to make sure people are safe as this fire grows. The Crosho Fire in Routt County. (Courtesy Kathryn Schlatter) Hagenbuch says the timing is adding pressure. The Routt County Fair is underway. Meaning some families are splitting time between evacuation efforts and 4-H competitions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family members, some are at home trying to get animals out of the way of the fire, said Hagenbuch. Many of the family members are down in Hayden at the Routt County fairgrounds tending to their animals, and their kids and showing animals in the 4-H shows at this years fair. The fairgrounds are a safe spot for smaller animals, but cattle often require more space. Large number of cattle though, would not normally be housed at the fairgrounds regardless. So, were finding other locations as we can for cattle being evacuated, he said. Hagenbuch says the community is stepping up from offering pasture space to volunteering to fix fences. He says the impact on ranchers goes far beyond the flames. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 87-year-old Meeker man loses home in Elk fire: 2nd major fire disaster hes survived Were not just talking about just a home; its their business, its compounded with what they are dealing with, we have live animals, we have an active business. We have a home, we have multigenerational families, we have a lot of history, said Hagenbuch. People need to keep that mind and show these people grace and support them in any way they can. The fire started early Monday afternoon. The cause remains under investigation. Meanwhile Hagenbuch goes on to say that anyone with space for animals your help is needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have a questionnaire out to Routt County residents asking if they have places where they can house animals. Whether thats horses, chickens, ducks or cattle or whatever folks might have that are in danger, said Hagenbach. Were asking for people to fill that out. Were also asking in that questionnaire, are there other things you can do? Do you have trailers that can help evacuate livestock? Do you have the ability to fix a fence? Maybe someone has some pasture they havent grazed for a while and dont have the ability to fix the fence. Do we have volunteers that can help fix a fence? Thats what were asking people to think about right now. What is some unique skillset you have or something unique you have for a safe location for animals or an ability to help make a safe location animal-ready in an event we need it? Wednesday evening, the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Forest Service for the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests and Thunder Basin National Grassland announced that a forest closure was in effect for the Yampa Ranger District beginning Aug. 13 through Dec. 31, unless rescinded. A map of the closure area is available here. FOX31s Heather Willard contributed to this report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. QUANAH (KFDX/KJTL) As school starts, students are missing summer. Copper Breaks State Park is hosting a weekend of events to get people back in nature. On Friday, August 15, and Saturday, August 16, at 2 p.m., participants will meet a herd of one of Texas most iconic symbols the Longhorn. They will also learn the history and origins of the Texas Longhorn at the Park Headquarters. While Saturday brings another chance at meeting the Longhorn, early at 9 a.m., participants will learn how to identify birds with Birding For Beginners. Join a ranger out on the trail, equipped with binoculars, and discover new ways to make birding easier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later in the day, on Saturday at 3:30 pm, folks will observe our closest star through solar viewing. Get a chance to view the energy source for all life on Earth safely. The event will occur at the Cottonwood Picnic Area. These programs are free with park entry, $3 for people aged 13 and above and for children 12 and under is free. Be sure to bring plenty of water and shade. Visit the Copper Breaks State Park Calendar page for more information on these events and others happening at the park. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Two passengers were removed from a Ryanair flight after an apparent brawl was sparked by a child crying on board. Ryanair flight FR1882 took off from London Stansted for a two-and-a-half-hour flight to Lisbon, Portugal, on Tuesday, 12 August, when the conflict between two passengers reportedly erupted. According to Portuguese publication SIC, the incident started when a child began crying during the flight. Tensions rose after the plane landed in Lisbon and was heading towards the apron. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Footage obtained by the outlet shows passengers standing up inside the Ryanair cabin, amid shouting and raised voices. One mother can be heard comforting her crying child, saying, It's okay, we are going now. Ryanair flight attendants can be seen standing in the aisle talking to the passengers. The publication said that because of the altercation, passengers had to wait inside the plane for about an hour. Meanwhile, police officers were called to respond to the incident. Ryanair confirmed the incident to The Independent, stating: The crew of this flight from London Stansted to Lisbon (12 Aug) called for police assistance after two passengers became disruptive onboard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 action to combat unruly passenger behaviour on aircraft for the benefit of the vast majority of passengers who do not disrupt flights. This is a matter for local police. The low-cost airline is known to have a strict policy towards unruly passengers, having fined and banned those have disrupted journeys. In legal proceedings filed earlier this year in the Polish courts, Ryanair sought over 3,000 (2,500) in damages against a passenger who disrupted a flight from Berlin to Marrakesh that was forced to divert to Seville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, Ryanair handed the passenger a five-year ban from travelling with the airline. Ryanair has also recently introduced a penalty for passengers who are offloaded due to their behaviour. A Ryanair spokesperson said back in June: It is unacceptable that passengers are made suffer unnecessary disruption because of one unruly passengers behaviour. To help ensure that our passengers and crew travel in a comfortable and stress-free environment, without unnecessary disruption caused by a tiny number of unruly passengers, we have introduced a 500 fine, which will be issued to any passengers offloaded from aircraft as a result of their misconduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The airline said the penalty will be taken directly from the card used to make the booking or deducted from any Ryanair vouchers the passenger may have. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast MARTINSBURG, W.Va. (DC News Now) Farmers are busy these summer months getting their crops to market. A few West Virginia growers are looking to expand their markets with the help of a celebrity chef and a business plan. The Mountain State may not be synonymous with gourmet cuisine. But some enterprising entrepreneurs in West Virginias eastern panhandle are about to change that perception by creating a distinctive and enviable food culture not far from the Nations Capital. Chef Matt Welsch has won a chefs challenge on the Food Network and has been executive chef for dining services in the West Virginia State Park System. He is taking locally-grown products to a national, if not global, market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well market products from West Virginia, fresh and unique, says Welsch, and you will really taste the hills and hollers of West Virginia in these products. Welsch has partnered in Martinsburg with grower Coleman Erwin, CEO and founder of Harvest Trails Co., a produce cooperative. Commanders donate football equipment to high schools across the DMV Harvest Trails is special because we work with local farms and orchards to source our products, says Erwin. We bring it back to our commercial kitchen. The Appalachian Cellar food collective Appalachian Cellar gives the regions culinary culture a marketable brand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of our producers have been selling around the state for years now, says Welsch. The real big push with Appalachian Cellar is to get our product outside the State of West Virginia. Collective partner Erwin has no doubt Welsch will succeed. Hes been able to take a lot of our products and bring them into his recipes, Erwin says, and really highlight the versatility, really bring out the flavors of Appalachia through his recipes. The collective is targeting 12 out-of-state markets to launch its brand. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. A federal district court in Philadelphia on Wednesday ruled against a Trump administration religious conscience rule, siding with Pennsylvania and New Jersey, who have insisted for years that the Little Sisters of the Poor, a group of Catholic nuns who care for the elderly, must include abortion and contraceptives in their health care plans for employees. The Supreme Court issued two different rulings favoring the Little Sisters and other religious groups who want a religious exemption from the federal governments contraceptive mandate, but neither of those Supreme Court decisions closed the door on additional challenges. The mandate was installed under the Affordable Care Act, when the Department of Health and Human Services required employers in their insurance plans to provide womens preventive care, which includes some contraceptives, and medication that can cause an abortion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The original mandate provided some exemptions, but did not offer exemptions to religious organizations like Little Sisters. Little Sisters challenged the ACAs regulations and brought the case to the Supreme Court in 2016. The court ruled that the federal government should arrive at an approach that would accommodate religious exercise while still ensuring women are covered by health plans and receive access to contraceptive care. Nuns with the Little Sisters of The Poor, including Sister Celestine, left, and Sister Jeanne Veronique, center, rally outside the Supreme Court in Washington, Wednesday, March 23, 2016, as the court hears arguments to allow birth control in health care plans in the Zubik v. Burwell case. | Jacquelyn Martin, Associated Press Shortly after taking office the first time, President Donald Trump asked HHS to devise new rules that promoted free speech and religious liberty. HHS considered conscience-based objection to care and issued new rules, which allowed providers to refuse certain services if they cite a religious objection. The new rules were issued in 2017, and several state governments then sued. Lower circuit courts placed injunctions on the rule change and the issue again made its way to the Supreme Court in 2020. The court ruled that the Trump administrations rules were valid and could stand, giving a religious exemption over the issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge in Wednesdays ruling said the Trump administrations amendments to the rule allowed for more entities to take advantage of the exemption or accommodation. The judges decision means the Trump administration rule is vacated in full. Mark Rienzi, the president of Becket, a religious liberty organization and lead attorney for the Little Sisters, said the effort by Pennsylvania and New Jersey is out of control. Its bad enough that the district court issued a nationwide ruling invalidating federal religious conscience rules. But even worse is that the district court simply ducked the glaring constitutional issues in this case, after waiting five years and not even holding a hearing, Rienzi said in a statement. It is absurd to think the Little Sisters might need yet another trip to the Supreme Court to end what has now been more than a dozen years of litigation over the same issue. The Little Sisters said they will be appealing Wednesdays ruling in the coming weeks. Marine archaeologists discovered 16 British cannons scattered across the rocky seabed near Germany's North Sea island of Heligoland, adding to the region's appeal for historians and divers alike. The finds include 12-pounder cannons and carronades dating from around 1800, when Heligoland served as a British base during the Napoleonic Wars. "They are clearly of British origin, recognizable by distinctive features such as the so-called Blomefield ring," says underwater archaeologist and project leader Florian Huber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Huber, the new discoveries complement earlier recoveries from the 1990s and confirm the significance of the island as a former British military outpost. The cannons were located during systematic surveys conducted by the Kiel-based research diving company Submaris, with support from the Marine Geophysics and Hydroacoustics group at Kiel University. High-resolution sonar mapping and 3D modelling allowed researchers to measure and document the weapons. The researchers suspect the British Navy deliberately sank the cannons off Heligoland before the island was transferred to the German Empire in 1890, as the guns were already technically obsolete. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heligoland, originally settled by Frisians, was part of the Duchy of Schleswig from 1402, later controlled by Denmark and then Britain, before being ceded to Germany in exchange for trading interests in Africa in 1890. "The discovery of these 16 cannons deepens our understanding of Heligoland's maritime history and underscores the island's role during the Napoleonic Wars and in British naval history," Huber says. Appeal of wreck diving The world's seas - from Norway to Malta, from Aruba to Australia - are the graveyard of countless sunken ships which attract divers. The fascination they exert can probably be explained by a mixture of drama, transience and the experience of nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The people on board have often lost their lives, the substance of the ship is slowly decomposing and marine plants and fish are making it their new home. "Wrecks are foreign bodies on the seabed, but over the years and decades they become artificial reefs," says diving instructor Frank Ostheimer from the German Scuba Diving Association. More opportunities Ostheimer says wreck diving opportunities and locations are increasing as new ships are being discovered all the time. Occasionally, ships are sunk to serve as an artificial reef and diving spot. In 2022, the wrecked oil tanker MV Hephaestus - after officials first made sure that it had been carefully cleansed of oil and lubricant residues beforehand - was sunk off the Maltese island of Gozo. View of the upper land of the offshore island of Heligoland towards the lower land and the dune (behind). Heligoland, originally settled by Frisians, was part of the Duchy of Schleswig from 1402, later controlled by Denmark and then Britain, before being ceded to Germany. Marcus Brandt/dpa A research diver from Kiel documents one of the 16 English cannons discovered off Heligoland. Marine archaeologists have discovered 16 British cannons scattered across the rocky seabed near Germany's North Sea island of Heligoland. Florian Huber/submaris/dpa Heligoland, originally settled by Frisians, was part of the Duchy of Schleswig from 1402, later controlled by Denmark and then Britain, before being ceded to Germany in exchange for trading interests in Africa in 1890. Marcus Brandt/dpa Diving off the Maltese island of Gozo. Heritage Malta/dpa-tmn Advertisement Advertisement Recently, I saw a post on the popular Ask Reddit page from user BenneIdli asking, "Doctors and former patients: what is a mild symptom that you should take a second opinion on just to rule out something major?" While this isn't medical advice, I definitely think it's worth it to be aware of any potential mild symptoms that can morph into something far more dramatic; so, I decided to share. Here are some of the most useful and interesting answers: 1.Itchy hands and feet. My mum had a tumour in her pancreas, and this was the symptom her GP (a fantastic GP) took as a sign to get further testing. I dont think she would be here now if it weren't for him taking it seriously." Channel 4, BBC Two "The itchy hands and feet were caused by a buildup of bilirubin in her bile ducts, caused by the tumor in her pancreas. She ended up having a Whipple procedure done, and they found the cancer early, no further treatment, and its been 11 years, full recovery." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/crankyT27 "Pancreatic cancer is the absolute worst. Glad they found it early and that your mom made a full recovery! " u/noracordelia 2."If you (or your mom) have already been through menopause but your period 'comes back' even just once, INSIST on testing. Post-menopausal uterine bleeding is uterine cancer until proven otherwise." u/WeAreNotNowThatWhich "Yup. My mom had gone through menopause 10 years prior, when suddenly she started bleeding again. The assistant told her this wasn't anything to worry about and told her to wait. A month later, she finally got an appointment and was immediately sent to the hospital. Full-blown ovarian cancer. Her uterus was basically filled to the brim with cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We got so lucky. It hadn't spread, and they were able to take out everything without any repercussions (besides a horrible-looking scar). Fuck that assistant." u/Blackneomil Related: People Are Correcting Super Common "Fun Facts" That Everyone Keeps Repeating, But Are Actually False 3."My father recently died of acute myeloid leukemia. Keep in mind, he vehemently refused checkups or doctors' visits for any reason. Seemingly innocuous symptoms clustered together can be a sign of a much bigger issue, as I have learned. From my memory, he slept way too much (fatigue)." Nemes Laszlo / Getty Images "He had frequent colds that he kept taking over-the-counter medicine for. He had weakness that we didn't catch. Close to the end, he had stomach issues for many days (I discovered this by chance). The sudden, alarming weight loss was the last straw. I forced him to the hospital and he was dead in less than a week. Separately, all those issues are usually nothing serious, but in this instance, they were a huge warning sign that he chose to ignore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/Here_for_tea85 4."Sudden weight loss." u/lazuli_s 5."Doctors told my mom she 'just had arthritis' when she kept complaining of back pain. She had a large tumour on her spine and died less than two months from it finally being found. Always get multiple opinions." Mr.suphachai Praserdumrongchai / Getty Images u/LibbyBaby2000 6."My OB/GYN once noted that my thyroid seemed a little big, but shrugged it off once my blood tests came back normal. It was cancer." Pop TV / CBC Television "That was discovered later on. Thankfully, it was a slow-growing and easily treatable type, but still a case for following up on anything that seems even slightly odd." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/MadamNerd 7."Being more tired than usual. People tend to think they're just getting older, maybe overworked, maybe stressed, etc., but it could be an easily fixed thing like a vitamin deficiency, or it could be something serious but treatable like hypothyroid, or any number of things that are urgent and need attention. Sleep apnea, heart disease, etc." Paramount Pictures u/NotMyNameActually Related: People Who Cut Off Their Trump-Supporting Friends And Family Members Are Sharing Their Stories, And It's Heartbreaking 8."Increasingly heavy periods." u/TheYankunian "Increasingly lighter periods, too." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/hummusy 9."Night pain in the hips or back (or really any bone, but those are big ones) and more specifically, pain that wakes you up at night, especially in kids. Nothing will get you an MRI faster in the pediatric ortho world." Salah Uddin / Getty Images u/ohKilo13 10."Thought I had random heartburn that only showed up when I walked up stairs. No chest pain, just a tight belt feeling and a little jaw ache. I went to urgent care, and troponins were positive. It was a heart attack. If 'indigestion' shows up with exertion or comes with jaw or arm weirdness, get checked fast." NBC u/Reasonable_Dance_469 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 11."A wart that just keeps coming back after treatment." "Eventually they took a biopsy, and suddenly it went from 'oh, this is annoying' to 'I might die in three months' for my father. It was Merkle Cell Carcinoma and luckily only took part of a limb rather than his whole life." u/UncomfortablyHere Related: Here Are 19 Shocking Stories From People Who Decided To Quit Attending A "Mega-Church" 12."Bleeding after sex. Pain during sex. Ladies, make sure you have your smear tests. Please." Magicmine / Getty Images u/GingerbreadMary "Agree. Had those symptoms and ended up having stage 3 cervical cancer at 22 years old." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/Ambitious_Phrase3695 13."Blood in stool may indicate intestinal bleeding that can lead to death within hours." u/PassengerNo2022 14."When your 'just a headache' starts waking you up at night, get that checked." Dragonimages / Getty Images u/Suspicious_Level3366 "Pretty much any pain that is significant enough to wake you up from a sound sleep is something to get checked out, not just headaches." u/twistedscorp87 15."Sharp pain in sternum shortly after drinking even a small amount of alcohol." Salah Uddin / Getty Images "I thought it was just kinda weird, was dismissed by a GP twice as probably just a strain or injury, and finally a third GP sent me for an ultrasound, which suddenly turned into a battery of more serious tests...turns out it was an obscure but known symptom of Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Was stage 4 by that point, but chemo did its thing and here I am 16 years later." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/bazpoint 16."Pulsatile tinnitus hearing a dull thudding or wooshing sound in your ear that matches your heartbeat. It's normal to have your heart pounding in your ears immediately after strenuous exertion, but if you can hear your heartbeat in one or both ears at rest, that is concerning." "What you're hearing may be a bruit (pronounced 'bruey'), a sound caused by turbulent bloodflow. Something may be compressing one of your arteries, such as a swollen lymph node or a tumor. Or something has changed the shape of a blood vessel. Whatever the cause, it warrants immediate investigation. I had a bulbus dissection of my left internal carotid artery, and pulsatile tinnitus was the only symptom." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement u/MrBarraclough 17."Tooth infection can lead to heart attack, who would have known?! (I'm not a doctor, but it happened to a friend and he nearly died.)" Msc / Getty Images u/Cultural-Chart3023 Related: This Woman's Mexico Facelift Has Results So Shocking, It Has Left Over 125 Million People Completely Flabbergasted 18."Sudden loss of balance. It was my dads only symptom of a stroke. Luckily, he recovered, but he needed a cardiac catheterization and was found to have heart failure as well." u/StrongArgument 19."Skin bump that bleeds. Yeah, skin cancer does that." NBC u/que_he_hecho 20.And finally: "Back pain. My dad kept going to his doctor about his back hurting, and was told to just take Robaxacet. He turned jaundiced, went to the emergency room, and stayed for three days getting tests...turned out to be cancer. Less than six months later, he was dead." Victoria Kotlyarchuk / Getty Images u/Quirky_March_626 If you made it to the end of this article, congratulations! I myself am sitting here horrified, but I'm glad I read these it's so important to know the red flag symptoms to look out for. If you have any thoughts, tell me about 'em in the comments even better if you have a story of your own to share. Or, if you have a story to share but prefer to remain anonymous, you can check out this anonymous form! Also in Goodful: 15 Unusual Experiences People Grew Up Believing Were Universal But Turned Out To Be Personal Also in Goodful: People Are Sharing Their Biggest "How Doesn't Everyone Know This?" Facts, And I'm Honestly Embarrassed I Never Realized Some Of These Also in Goodful: I Asked People To Share Political Opinions They Hold That Are Controversial In Their Own Party, And The Responses Reallllyyy Threw Me For A Loop Read it on BuzzFeed.com Posts across multiple platforms claim tetanus shots are unnecessary because people can only be exposed via farm animals, and because applying peroxide to an exposed wound can supposedly eliminate the risk of an infection. This is misleading; public health experts say tetanus bacteria can be present anywhere there is dirt, dust or feces -- and the bacteria thrives deep within a wound, beyond the reach of topical treatment. "Tetanus is probably one of the most ridiculous vaccines ever," says the text in an image shared July 30, 2025 on Instagram. "Your chances of getting Tetanus are about the same as walking outta here and getting hit by a meteor." The claim, which also spread on Facebook and X, goes on to allege that applying peroxide to a wound will effectively eliminate the risk of infection and that tetanus "comes from the bowels of animals." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As long as you don't have a sheep or a cow in your house, I don't think you're in any danger," adds the text, which attributes the statement to neurosurgeon Russell Blaylock, who has previously promoted misleading health claims. Screenshot of an Instagram post taken August 14, 2025 The posts come as experts say vaccine misinformation is rampant online and may be contributing to falling vaccination rates across the United States and Canada (archived here and here). In a June 2025 video announcing the elimination of funding for a global vaccine body, US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. criticized "whole cell" DTP shots protecting against tetanus, diptheria and pertussis. AFP regularly debunks false vaccine claims and recently fact-checked posts that misled about the Vaxelis 6-in-1 shot, which protects against multiple diseases including tetanus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The claim that the risk of a tetanus infection is almost nonexistent, rendering the vaccines unnecessary, is similarly misleading. Deep wounds Tetanus is an acute infectious disease caused by spores of Clostridium tetani bacteria, according to the World Health Organization (archived here). The bacteria is anaerobic, meaning that after being dormant, it can thrive in environments devoid of oxygen (archived here). This characteristic makes deep wounds the perfect place for the spores to germinate. Barry Pakes, a public health specialist at the University of Toronto, said it is true that cleaning a shallow cut with peroxide or another antiseptic could kill off superficial tetanus-causing bacteria (archived here). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But that's not where the problem is," he said August 7. "The problem is when it gets almost injected into your tissue." He said the "classic" tetanus risk scenario of stepping on a rusty nail is so well known because these types of injuries push spores deep into the flesh, where topical solutions cannot reach them. Once deprived of oxygen, the bacteria begin releasing a toxin that causes tetanus symptoms such as headaches, fevers and seizures (archived here). "Then you become very, very ill and you can potentially die of it," Pakes said. "Like almost everything else, we don't see it often because of vaccination." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As with most vaccines, tetanus shots train cells in the body to fortify an immunity response to a specific infection, preventing severe outcomes (archived here). Pakes said tetanus immunization works well in tandem with other vaccines, which is why there are combination shots such as the Vaxelis 6-in-1. Exposure risks Earl Rubin, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Montreal Children's Hospital (archived here), agreed that vaccination remains necessary and said boosters are recommended roughly every ten years (archived here and here). They can also be administered when a patient comes in with a deep wound and potential exposure to tetanus-causing bacteria (archived here). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rubin also dismissed the claim that exposure to farm animals is the only way people can contract tetanus. "It's a bacteria that's found in the environment, so you don't have to be anywhere near an animal," he said. While the bacteria is found in animal feces, it is also dormant in soil, dust and objects like rusty nails, Rubin explained. AFP has fact-checked more health misinformation here. The Israeli cabinets decision to escalate its war on Gaza, disregarding the humanitarian crises it has caused there already, appears to have angered as many in Israel as in the international community, though not necessarily for the same reasons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had to backtrack on his idea of seizing all of Gaza after pushback from a military widely regarded as being exhausted. Under the new plan, Israel will seize Gaza City and, according to an anonymous Israeli official talking to the Associated Press, Gazas central camps as well as al-Mawasi in the south. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defending his new idea on Sunday, Netanyahu told journalists that Israel had no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas. Israel has spent 22 months killing 61,722 people and destroying nearly all of Gaza, ostensibly for that very purpose. Many in Israel, including the families of the remaining captives held in Gaza, object to the escalation. So why is Netanyahu doing it, and how has this landed in Israel? Heres what we know. Why does Netanyahu want to do this? Its not clear. Many in the international community, from the European Union to the United Nations, have condemned the idea. Even many of Israels formerly stalwart allies, like Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, have condemned it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Israel, many suspect Netanyahus move aims to shore up his support among the far-right elements that his coalition needs to stay in power, and to drag out a war he feels his political survival depends on. Do many on the far right support Netanyahus plan? Not as many as hed hoped. While hard-right ministers like ultra-nationalist Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir still support Netanyahus coalition, their loyalty seems conditional. Both had been among a cohort of hard-right politicians who had objected to the suggestion that humanitarian aid be allowed into the enclave in May, following worldwide outrage over starvation there, before falling into line with government policy and Smotrich even diverting extra funds for aid earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both ministers, and their sizeable constituencies, want a full Israeli seizure of all of Gaza, the razing of Gaza City, and what they describe as the voluntary migration of Gazas population, once the territory has been rendered uninhabitable. On Saturday, Smotrich released a video criticising Netanyahus plans to limit the invasion to Gaza City, saying he had lost faith in Netanyahus leadership. He later clarified that he would remain in government nonetheless. Itamar Ben-Gvir, left, and Bezalel Smotrich opposed the restarting of aid to Gaza despite widespread reports of starvation [Amir Cohen/Reuters] Does the security establishment fully support Netanyahus plan? No. Israeli media reports that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and several senior Israeli officers oppose the plan. According to leaked reports, Zamir told Netanyahu he was creating a trap that would further erode the army and endanger the lives of the remaining captives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the same week, more than 600 former Israeli security officials wrote to US President Donald Trump to implore him to use his influence over Netanyahu to bring the war to a close. Everything that could be achieved by force has been achieved. The hostages cannot wait any longer, the Commanders for Israels Security (CIS) group said in a post on X, where it shared the letter. Does the Israeli public fully support Netanyahus plan? No. Tens of thousands of people, including many of the captives families, have taken to the streets to protest against the decision to escalate the war. In mid-July, a poll carried out by the Israeli Democracy Institute found 74 percent of Israelis supported a negotiated end to the war that would see the return of the roughly 50 captives remaining in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among them were 60 percent who had previously voted for the prime ministers coalition. How has society responded? Loudly. Groups representing the families of the captives and those of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza are calling for a general strike on August 17. Many in Israels vital tech industry, as well as universities and local authorities, have responded positively. The goal, one of the groups organising the action explained, is to save the lives of the hostages and soldiers, and prevent further families from joining the bereaved. Relatives and supporters of Israeli captives held in the Gaza Strip rally demanding their release and calling for an end to the war, in Tel Aviv, August 9, 2025 [Ohad Zwigenberg/AP] How has the political opposition responded to Netanyahus plan? They almost universally oppose it. Opposition leader Yair Lapid who has backed the government through much of its war on Gaza declared the latest escalation a disaster that will lead to many more disasters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another opposition figure, Benny Gantz, who served in the government throughout some of its fiercest attacks upon Gaza during the early stages of the war, also condemned the escalation. In a post on X, Gantz characterised the escalation as a political failure that wastes the tremendous achievements of the [Israeli army]. ? ". . . . : . : Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) August 8, 2025 Are Israelis more aware of what their country is doing to Palestinians? Not really. A poll by the Israeli Democracy Institute in July showed that, despite widespread coverage, a majority of Israelis described themselves as not at all troubled by reports of famine and suffering among the Palestinian population in Gaza. An estimated 227 people have died of starvation as a result of the Israeli siege on Gaza that began in March. A total of 103 of them have been children. The mother of a 15-year-old California boy who was briefly detained by federal agents at gunpoint in a case of mistaken identity recalled the terrifying interaction in an interview Wednesday. Andreina Mejia said she was parked at the curb outside Arleta High School on Monday to enroll her daughter. At that time, her son, Baldemar Gutierrez, who has special needs, was with her. All of a sudden, a truck pulled up behind Mejias car and a group of masked men poured out of the truck to surround her and her son, she recalled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Somebody approached me, and another person approached [Baldermar], pointing a gun and a Taser, she said. They pulled him out and they handcuffed him right away. Arleta High School in Arleta, Calif. (Google Maps) Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho described the incident during a news conference Tuesday, adding that surveillance video captured armed agents wearing police and Border Patrol insignia taking the teen into custody. This young man was placed in handcuffs, presumably based on mistaken identity. He was not an adult. He was a 15-year-old boy with significant disabilities, Carvalho said. California, led by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, has become a target in the tough immigration crackdown by President Donald Trumps administration. Earlier this month, an appeals court kept in place a Los Angeles federal judges ruling that bars immigration agents from using a persons spoken language or job, like day laborer, as the sole pretext to detain them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administration is also embroiled in a legal fight with the state over whether it violated federal law when it mobilized troops to Los Angeles this summer. The administration said the deployment of National Guard troops and Marines was meant to support immigration officials. Carvalho said the agents involved in Mondays incident left bullets behind at the scene. District police reached out to the agencies that had been there to ask them to return and collect the ammunition, Carvalho said, but were told that they could keep the rounds and use them for target practice. Thats not suitable for us, Carvalho said. Come and get what you left behind. In a post on X, the Department of Homeland Security said Border Patrol agents were not targeting the high school. The agents were looking for a Salvadoran national with prior criminal convictions and suspected of ties to the gang MS-13, DHS said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The department did not respond to an NBC News email Tuesday night asking why the teen was detained and requesting more details on the incident. Mejia said her son has been shaken up since the encounter. He breaks down, and he tells me he feels harassed. He tells me he doesnt feel safe, the mother said. The teen, who has a hearing condition and speech delays, said the agents showed him a picture, asking him about a person they were looking for. They handcuffed me and kept telling me who this person is, and I was like, I dont know who that person is, Baldermar recalled. Mejia also said the agents showed her the picture, and she responded that the person pictured was not her son. Baldermar kept repeating his name and told the men that he was a U.S. citizen, the mom said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the agents finally realized their mistake, they removed her son from handcuffs and implied it was a worthwhile experience for him, Mejia said. [One agent] was like, Oh, we confused him with somebody else, but look at the bright side: Youre going to have an exciting story to tell your friends when you go back to school, Mejia recalled. Whats exciting about getting guns pointed at you? Mejia added that agents could have asked for identification before placing her son in handcuffs. Carvalho called the incident unacceptable and said district schools will have safety plans in place, including increasing patrols by school police so that they can alert schools of any potential immigration operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That example says all we need to know about why these actions should not be taking place around schools. Bullets on the ground what else do we need? Beyond the trauma, what else do we need? Carvalho said. Arleta is a neighborhood in the San Fernando Valley area, around 22 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com BOULDER, Colo. (KDVR) Colorado Parks and Wildlife has received more than 3,000 bear reports this year, and August is a time when bears seek additional food in preparation for hibernation. They really need a lot of time to consume a lot of calories in a very short period of time, City of Boulder Deputy Director of Resource Stewardship Heather Swanson told FOX31. Rabbits with wart-like tentacles, horns seen in northern Colorado: Is it dangerous? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Front Range is preparing for increased bear sightings on popular hiking trails. The city of Boulders Open Space and Mountain Parks Department will put seasonal dog leash requirements in place from Friday, Aug. 15, through Monday, Dec. 1, in sensitive bear habitats. Having dogs on a leash helps (bears) to feel more secure to continue eating, even when people are enjoying the trails, said Swanson. The restrictions affect portions of Gregory Canyon, Saddle Rock, Amphitheater and Bluebell- Baird trails as well as Skunk Canyon up to the Mesa trail, Shadow Canyon south from Mesa trail up to the intersection with Shadow Canyon north and the upper part of the Doudy Draw trail above Springbrook Loop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hikers can view all open space dog regulations and trail updates through an interactive web map. CPW tells FOX31 of the 3,000 bear reports statewide, 475 have occurred in the northeast region, mostly in Boulder, Larimer, Weld, Jefferson and also Douglas counties. Bears could be out looking for their natural food sources like choke cherries or berries so if youre recreating in a place with a lot of those, bears can certainly be present, CPW Spokesperson Kara Van Hoose told FOX31. Hikers should carry bear spray and be aware of how to handle encounters with wild animals. Anchorage warns hikers after 2 bear attacks in a week Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boulder wildlife experts say if you encounter a bear, stay calm, keep your distance, back slowly away facing the bear and avoid direct eye contact. Slowly and calmly leave the area and talk loudly. Residents along the Front Range should dispose of all litter in bear-proof trash cans when in a bear habitat. Visit CPWs website for more information about how to avoid wildlife encounters and keep your home safe. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa sent out a press release cautioning against the presence of blue-green algae in Destins Twin Lake South Lobe and Kell Aire Lakes. While water sample testing is still underway, the DOH warns that environmental conditions can change at any time and that it is important to exercise caution, even if the presence of toxins has not yet been confirmed. Blue-green algae is a type of bacteria that is common in Floridas freshwater environments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A bloom occurs when rapid growth of algae leads to an accumulation of individual cells that discolor water and often produce floating mats that emit unpleasant odors. Blue-green algae blooms can also appear as scum, foam, or paint on the surface of the water in various colors. Blue-green algae can produce toxins, which can be harmful to humans and pets as well as ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals. Sensitive individuals (e.g., children, the elderly, and immunocompromised) may still be at risk even at low concentrations and should avoid exposure. Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, or come into contact with waters where there is a visible bloom. Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have any contact with algae, or discolored or water that smells unpleasant. Keep pets and livestock away from the area to avoid any contact with water. Waters where algae blooms are present are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should use an alternative source of water when algae blooms are present. Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate toxins. Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish fillets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts, and cook the fish thoroughly. Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Current information about Floridas water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algae blooms and beach conditions is available here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The Department of Justice announced on Thursday it brought criminal charges against five fugitives who are allegedly senior leaders of the United Cartels, a designated foreign terrorist organization, and involved in a massive drug distribution network. DOJ Criminal Division head Matthew Galeotti said the indictments marked a "significant step" in the DOJ's mission to eradicate the organization and came as a result of "extraordinary policework." "This investigation began in a small town in Middle America and led to clandestine methamphetamine laboratories in Michoacan, Mexico. This case demonstrates our relentless pursuit of cartel leaders who flood our communities with illegal drugs and terrorize citizens on both sides of the border with violence," Galeotti said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Us Treasury Sanctions Brutally Violent Cartel For Timeshare Fraud In Tourist Hotspot Soldiers patrol the streets of Aguililla, Michoacan state, Mexico, on March 11, 2022, after violent cartel activity. Senior DOJ officials detailed to reporters the law enforcement work that preceded the indictments. "The really interesting part about this case is the investigation, how it unfolded, from a local town in Tennessee all the way to an international takedown, and we wanted to give you a little bit of detail about that," one of the officials said. Read On The Fox News App The case started as a regional hit-and-run incident involving two people in Rockwood, Tennessee, the official said. Police discovered the pair were methamphetamine dealers, and through investigative work, they were led to a vast narcotics distribution network in the Atlanta area, the official said. After a series of actions, including conducting surveillance outside a hotel, engaging in a high-speed shootout and executing search warrants in Georgia, they eventually discovered what totaled 950 kilograms of methamphetamine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mexico To Extradite 26 Top Cartel Leaders To Us In Trump Administration Deal Phones seized during that operation allowed investigators to make the connection to Michoacan. "The key thing about this case is it actually quite well demonstrates the perils of what's going on and these high-level narco-terrorists abroad and the impacts that it has on our local communities and in our streets," the official said. The shootout involved a man named Cody Seals, who was sentenced last year to 30 years in prison for conspiring to distribute illicit drugs and attempting to murder two Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers. One of the troopers was wounded in the leg, while Seals was shot in the head and survived. Police discovered more than one kilogram of methamphetamine in Seals' vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration took a whole-of-government approach to addressing the United Cartels, the senior officials told reporters. In addition to the indictments unveiled on Thursday, the Treasury Department announced economic sanctions against several of its alleged leaders and the State Department announced $26 million in rewards for information leading to the arrests of the five defendants, who remain at-large. Those facing charges are Juan Jose Farias Alvarez, Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, Luis Enrique Barragan Chavez, Edgar Orozco Cabadas and Nicolas Sierra Santana. The five men have allegedly been involved in a decades-long conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl, including into the United States. They face drug trafficking and firearms charges that carry maximum penalties of life in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Todays charges are designed to dismantle the United Cartels and bring their leaders to justice for unleashing death and destruction on American citizens," Attorney General Pamela Bondi said. Original article source: DOJ charges five alleged Mexican cartel leaders, touts extraordinary policework that led to indictments The U.S. Department of Justice has formally designated Washington state and the city of Seattle as sanctuary jurisdictions, citing policies it says hinder federal immigration enforcement. The designation, announced Thursday, places Washington among 13 states including California, Oregon, and New York that federal officials say have laws or practices that obstruct cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Seattle is one of 18 cities on the list, which also includes New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the DOJ, sanctuary jurisdictions are identified through a review of local and state laws, ordinances, and executive directives. Officials said the designations will be reviewed regularly, with jurisdictions added or removed based on whether policies change. Each jurisdiction will have an opportunity to respond. KIRO 7 News has reached out to the offices of Gov. Bob Ferguson and Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell for comment. Mayor Bruce Harrell sent KIRO 7 News the following statement: Once again, the Trump Administration continues to target sanctuary cities and perpetuate a narrative about our communities and laws that are furthest from the truth. Immigration enforcement is the exclusive responsibility of the federal government. The City neither interferes with nor carries out those federal duties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have received and are reviewing the latest letter from Attorney General Bondi and strongly disagree with its assertions. Our laws and policies protect the safety, privacy and constitutional rights of all Seattle residents while remaining compliant with applicable law. We remain committed to our local values, including being a welcoming city for all. We will continue to defend our residents and our rights and we will not hesitate to do so in court. The department outlined characteristics of sanctuary jurisdictions, which can include: Declaring sanctuary status publicly. Restricting cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Limiting the sharing of detainee immigration status information. Prohibiting the use of local funds to support federal immigration enforcement. Refusing to honor ICE detainer requests without a judges warrant. Limiting ICE access to jails without detainee consent. Operating immigrant affairs offices to advise undocumented residents. Providing access to benefit programs for undocumented immigrants, such as housing aid, legal services, or healthcare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter sent to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, the DOJ said cooperation between state and local law enforcement agencies is vital to enforce federal law and protect national security and argued that sanctuary policies undermined this necessary cooperation. The letter also cited an executive order signed in April 2025 by President Donald Trump directing the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to identify sanctuary jurisdictions and explore ways to attach immigration-related conditions to federal funding. Any sanctuary jurisdiction that continues to put illegal aliens ahead of American citizens can either come to the table or see us in court, Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. The Justice Department said jurisdictions that remain on the list could face additional consequences and further agency actions as permitted by law, including potential funding impacts. A 21-year-old Seattle woman has been indicted on federal charges in the January shooting death of a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont, the Department of Justice announced Thursday. A grand jury in the District of Vermont returned a four-count superseding indictment against Teresa Youngblut, charging her with murder, assault on two additional Border Patrol agents with a deadly weapon, and firearms offenses. According to court documents, the shooting happened Jan. 20 on Interstate 91 in Coventry, Vermont. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Border Patrol agent had pulled over a Toyota Prius carrying Youngblut and a male German citizen whose immigration status was in question. Prosecutors allege that both were armed during the stop. Youngblut allegedly got out of the vehicle and opened fire without warning, killing the agent. Authorities say the agent killed in the line of duty was identified as Border Patrol Agent Maland. We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and our borders, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti said in a statement. The Justice Department said the investigation revealed that days before the shooting, a hotel employee had reported Youngblut and her companion for wearing tactical gear and appearing armed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the same day as the shooting, police had observed the pair in a Newport, Vermont, parking lot, where the German citizen was seen wrapping unknown objects in aluminum foil. If convicted, Youngblut faces a maximum penalty of death. Attorney General Pamela Bondi has authorized federal prosecutors to pursue capital punishment. An indictment is an allegation, and Youngblut is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The Justice Department has fired one of its own and charged him with felony assault after he threw a sub sandwich at a federal officer. A video of Sean Charles Dunn throwing a sandwich at the chest of an officer amid President Donald Trumps federal takeover of law enforcement in Washington, D.C., went viral earlier this week. Dunn, at point blank range, hurled the sandwich at the officers chest before attempting to sprint away. Dunn reportedly told cops: I did it. I threw a sandwich. Former Fox News Host turned U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro posted a video on social media Wednesday in which she bragged about having charged Dunn with a felony. He thought it was funny. Well, he doesnt think its funny today, because we charged him with a felony assault on a police officer, and were going to back the police to the hilt. So there stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else, she said before posing for the camera. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FBI Director Kash Patel announced on Thursday that the individual had indeed been arrested and charged with felony assault on a federal officer. Attorney General Pam Bondi later wrote on social media that if you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you. I just learned that this defendant worked at the Department of Justice NO LONGER. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony, Bondi added. This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ. You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement, the attorney general wrote. Bondi does, however, have some level of tolerance for disrespect to law enforcement among her staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, NPR obtained video footage of current DOJ employee Jared Wise outside of the Capitol on Jan. 6. Wise was filmed calling police officers protecting the Capitol Nazi and Gestapo. Wise also yelled kill em, as his fellow rioters clashed with law enforcement. In a statement to NPR, a spokesperson for the Justice Department said that Jared Wise is a valued member of the Justice Department and we appreciate his contributions to our team. The Trump administration also pardoned hundreds of Jan. 6 rioters, some of whom beat and battled with cops as they stormed the Capitol in an attempt to block the certification of Trumps 2020 electoral loss. Bondis Justice Department has nevertheless made a show of throwing the book at anyone who makes any sort of aggressive contact with law enforcement. Earlier this week, Emily Gabriella Sommer pleaded guilty to three counts of assaulting, resisting or impeding a federal officer or employee. Sommer was arrested in May after allegedly spitting on former U.S. Attorney Ed Martin during a televised interview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sandwich or loogie, in the end the administration is not so much interested in preserving law and order, but in making an example of those who manage to embarrass them. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. SANTA ROSA, Calif. (KRON) A domestic violence suspect was shot and killed by police in Santa Rosa Thursday morning after barricading for several hours overnight, according to authorities. The Santa Rosa Police Department responded just after 10 p.m. Wednesday to the 900 block of Keegan Drive on the report of an armed man who was involved in domestic violence with an ex-partner. After officers arrived on scene, the suspect, a man whose name has not been released, barricaded himself inside a residence, according to SRPD Lt. Dan Marincik. Officers tried for numerous hours to negotiate and communicate with the suspect without any success, Marincik said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police arrest San Rafael stabbing suspect barricaded in bathroom Residents of Keegan Drive were advised by police to shelter in place at 11:13 p.m. Wednesday. At 4:55 a.m. Thursday, the man ran out of the house toward officers and was shot by police, according to Sgt. Juan Valencia of the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. Photo: Will Tran Photo: Will Tran No officers were injured in the incident. Police did not release any information on the victims condition. The Sonoma County Sheriffs Office is investigating the deadly police 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 KRON4. President Donald Trump has shared his reaction to first lady Melania Trumps $1 billion defamation threat against former President Joe Bidens son Hunter Biden. Speaking with Fox News Radios Brian Kilmeade on Thursday, Trump said that he is supportive of his wifes possible pursuit of legal action against his former rivals second-oldest son. Trumps reaction came after Hunter Biden recently claimed in an interview with YouTuber and journalist Andrew Callaghan that the disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein initially introduced the first couple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melania Trumps lawyer, Alejandro Brito, denied the claims in an Aug. 6 letter addressed to Hunter Biden and his attorney, Abbe Lowell. The letter was first reported Wednesday by Fox News Digital. Brito called Bidens claims about the first lady false, defamatory and extremely salacious. Melania Trumps legal team has demanded that Biden retract his comments and apologize while vowing to sue if he does not. Discussing the potential lawsuit, Donald Trump said he encouraged his wife to pursue legal action and also denied that Epstein, a former friend of his, introduced them. Well, I said go forward. Ive done pretty well in these lawsuits lately, the president told Kilmeade. Jeffrey Epstein has nothing to do with Melania and introducing, but they do that to demean, they make up stories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, I did meet through another person, but it wasnt Jeffrey Epstein. Yeah, I told her, Lets go ahead and do it. Id let her use my lawyers. She was very upset about it. In her memoir Melania, which was released last October, the first lady said that Donald Trump was on a date with another woman when he first met her in 1998 at the Kit Kat Klub club during a New York Fashion Week party. The pair later tied the knot in 2005. Related: Trump Continues Evading Questions About Jeffrey Epstein And Ghislaine Maxwell Bidens accusations came as the Trump administration has faced criticism in recent weeks for its handling of the Epstein files. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The backlash ramped up after the Department of Justice announced in a two-page memo last month that it would not be releasing any additional records in connection to Epstein and the sex trafficking case against him. The DOJ and FBI also said that Epstein didnt have a client list of powerful figures he could potentially blackmail and maintained that he died by suicide in his jail cell in 2019 as he awaited trial on federal charges. Meanwhile, Biden responded to Melania Trumps demand for a retraction in a separate interview Thursday on Callaghans Youtube channel, Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan. After Callaghan suggested Biden could apologize for his comments, he fired back, Fuck that. Thats not going to happen. Related... Read the original on HuffPost NEED TO KNOW Donald Trump said that he encouraged his wife, Melania Trump, to threaten Hunter Biden with a $1 billion defamation lawsuit over comments he made in a recent interview During a conversation with Andrew Callaghan last week, Biden repeated a disputed claim that Jeffrey Epstein introduced Melania to her future husband The former first son seemed to disregard the first lady's demand for an apology, saying, "F--- that" President Donald Trump took partial credit for first lady Melania Trump's recent legal actions after her feud with Hunter Biden escalated on Thursday, Aug. 14. In a conversation with Fox News' Brian Kilmeade, the president was asked about Melania's decision to threaten Biden with a $1 billion lawsuit after he repeated disputed claims that Jeffrey Epstein was the person who initially introduced the first couple. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Was that the right thing to do?" Kilmeade, 61, asked Donald, 79, during Thursday's broadcast of The Brian Kilmeade Show, emphasizing the large dollar amount. The president responded by claiming that he was the one who encouraged Melania, 55, to "go forward with it," citing how he's "done pretty well" with his own recent lawsuits. "I told her, Lets go ahead and do it,' " Donald said, adding, "I let her use my lawyers." https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Craig Hudson For The Washington Post via Getty President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump at the Kennedy Center premiere of "Les Miserables" on June 11, 2025 President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump at the Kennedy Center premiere of "Les Miserables" on June 11, 2025 On Wednesday, Aug. 12, Fox News broke the news that a lawyer for Melania had sent a letter to Biden demanding a full retraction of an interview he did with Andrew Callaghan that was posted to YouTube a week earlier. In the interview, Biden repeats a biographer's allegation that Epstein introduced Melania to her future husband, which conflicts with how the Trumps said they first met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Melania previously wrote in her self-titled memoir, which was released in October 2024, that she met Donald at the Kit Kat Klub in New York City in 1998 while he was on a date with another woman. "These false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory statements are extremely salacious and have been widely disseminated throughout various digital mediums," Trump attorney Alejandro Brito wrote in the letter, which was obtained by Fox, about Biden's Epstein comments. "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," Brito continued. Melania and Brito demanded that Biden, 55, "immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging and inflammatory statements made about Mrs. Trump." If he failed to comply, the letter continued, the first lady planned to sue the former first son for $1 billion in order to overcome "overwhelming financial and reputational harm." Davidoff Studios/Getty Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell pose together at Mar-a-Lago in 2000 Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell pose together at Mar-a-Lago in 2000 Melania's letter gave Biden until Aug. 7 to comply with their demands for not just a retraction of the video, but an apology. Rather than apologize, Biden went back on Callaghan's show on Thursday morning days after the first lady's deadline and said, "F--- that. That's not gonna happen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a distraction because it's not about who introduced whom to whom," Biden told Callaghan. "I don't know how that, in any way, rises to the level of defamation to begin with." "I also think they're bullies," Biden added of the Trumps and their legal team, "and they think that a billion dollars is going to scare me. The fact of the matter is that... if they want to sit down for a deposition and clarify the nature of the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein, if the president and the first lady want to do that, and all of the known associates around them at the time that they met, I'm more than happy to provide them the platform to be able to do it." Melania and Brito did proactively call out Trump biographer Michael Wolff as the source of Biden's claim in their letter, referring to the author as a "serial fabulist... whose lies were published by The Daily Beast." Last month, the Daily Beast published a story titled "Melania Trump very involved in Epstein Scandal: Author," which cited Wolff in making claims similar to Biden's. After being threatened with legal repercussions, the outlet deleted the story in its entirety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Political analyst James Carville also recently issued an apology to the first lady after making similar claims on his podcast last week and promptly hearing from Melania's lawyers. 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. PEOPLE has reached out to lawyers for both Melania and Biden for further comment, and asked Callaghan whether he plans to take down the Biden interview that prompted the legal threat. The first lady's spokesperson, Nick Clemens, shared a statement with PEOPLE that read: "First Lady Melania Trumps 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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to Kilmeade on Thursday, the president said, "Jeffrey Epstein had nothing to do with Melania, and introducing ... I mean I can tell you how it was, and it was another person actually. I did meet through another person, but it wasnt Jeffrey Epstein." Read the original article on People Dorothy Lane Market is set to open its fourth and largest location in Mason, Ohio, on August 20, marking its first entry into the Cincinnati area. The new store will feature a 50,000-square-foot main grocery area and a 9,000-square-foot mezzanine, offering an upscale shopping experience with a variety of prepared foods. We are excited for the opportunity to serve our neighbors in Mason and beyond and impact their lives, said Calvin Mayne, CEO of Dorothy Lane Market. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Mason location will employ 275 new hires and 32 existing associates, contributing to job creation in the area. Founded in 1948, Dorothy Lane Market is celebrating its 77th anniversary this month, adding significance to the opening of the new store. The store is located at the corner of Mason Montgomery Road and Veterans Parkway, part of a mixed-use planned community co-developed by Traditions Building & Development Group and Western Row Land Developers. Eric Hansen, Mason City Manager, expressed enthusiasm for the new development, highlighting its contribution to the communitys fabric. To celebrate the grand opening, Dorothy Lane Market will offer special Club Deals, with customers receiving 500 Bonus Points on their Club DLM card after their first purchase during the opening week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With its largest store yet, Dorothy Lane Market aims to bring its unique shopping experience to Mason, enhancing the local retail landscape and providing new opportunities for the community. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A 60-year-old man is in jail after police say he vandalized multiple businesses in downtown Dayton. The Dayton Police Department announced the arrest of a local man on three felony charges of vandalism, after video footage showed him damaging several local storefronts overnight. Hes just walking around downtown Dayton at 4:20 in the morning, just damaging peoples property, said Maj. Brian Johns, DPD. To say he has been a menace in downtown would be a gross understatement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police did not share the mans identity yet, but say everyone in the department is familiar with the mans history. Some warnings and arrests, I think theres close to 50 of them, and they mostly involved him being intoxicated, catcalling women, damaging property, drinking in public, said Johns. Officials estimate the recent vandalism to downtown businesses on Ludlow and First streets to be around $10,000. These people who run these companies, businesses did nothing to this man. They were closed, said Johns. No indication that he targeted those locations, except for the fact they were all close togethee, he happened to be there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jane Scott is the owner of Lisse Beauty Bar, one of the businesses that was vandalized. She says she was shocked to get a call this morning from one of her employees. One of my girls called me at 7:00 yesterday morning, I was just appalled and didnt know the extent, said Scott. But once I seen the extent of the damage, not knowing what the cost was going to be, you know, thinking about the insurance going up, putting fear in the girls that work here. Owners of another business affected, Rabbit Hole Books, say the large crack in their front window will not be cheap to replace. The 60-year-old man was arrested not far from where the vandalism occurred. Police state intoxication and mental health are factors of this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. NEW YORK (AP) More than 100,000 Drinkmate carbonation bottles are being recalled across the U.S. and Canada because they can explode during use, with several consumers reporting cuts and other impact injuries. According to a Thursday notice from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall covers certain Drinkmate 1L Carbonation Bottles sold individually or as part of the sparkling water maker's OmniFizz starter kits. That includes about 106,200 bottles in the U.S., the safety regulator noted, as well as 5,000 in Canada. Drinkmate has received eight reports of these now-recalled bottles exploding during use in the U.S., the CPSC noted four of which resulted in cuts, impact injuries and hearing damage. And per Health Canada, one additional case of a bottle shattering during use and causing some bruises has been reported in Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasn't immediately clear what's causing these bottles to explode but Thursday's recall noted that the issue was limited to Drinkmate's 1-liter bottles with expiration dates between January 2026 and October 2026. The products have a clear polyethylene terephthalate body and plastic caps and bases in red, blue, white and black colors. In addition to Drinkmate's website, these bottles were sold by major retailers including Walmart, Amazon, Target and Home Depot between April 2023 and October 2024. Consumers in possession of the now-recalled products are urged to stop using them immediately and contact Drinkmate for a free replacement. Those impacted can register for the recall and learn more on Drinkmate's website. To receive a free replacement bottle, you will need to fill out an online form and upload a picture of the product with the word recall written on it in permanent marker, and throw it away per the recall's instructions. The Associated Press reached out to Michigan-based Drinkmate for further comment Thursday. (pool) Why Southern Chiba Has Become the Perfect Getaway From Tokyo Chiba is not exactly a hidden gem. While some travel influencers might be tempted to call it thatits already a well-loved escape for locals. For centuries, Tokyoites (or Edoites) have flocked there, drawn by its history, nature and seaside charm, all conveniently close to the metropolis. Today, Chiba is gaining even more attention, particularly Southern Chiba, commonly known as Bosothe name of the peninsula where Chiba is located. This article explores the attractions of the Boso region and offers recommendations on what to do, along with a vision for Southern Chibas tourism future. (Umihotaru) (Onjuku Beach) Why People Visit Chiba But Usually Only the North Chiba is not short of attractions. Shinshoji Temple, founded in 940 AD in Narita, has reigned as Japans most-visited temple for decades. Tokyo Disney Resortdespite the nameis also in Chiba, meaning countless visitors have set foot in the prefecture without realizing it. Chibas culinary scene is equally impressive as Japans center for both fishing and soy sauce production. Its home to Choshi Fishing Port, where the nations largest fish hauls arrive, and is also Japans top soy sauce producerKikkoman, founded in 1603, began its legacy here. However, youll notice that these attractions are all in Northern Chiba. Despite Southern Chiba having its own long-standing sites, many visitors tend to focus on the northern half of the prefecture. This often comes down to factors like distance and transportation options. Want to discover the best cafes in Chiba? Heres our guide to 11 nature-filled spots. Undersea Tunnel Connects Southern Chiba and Tokyo Opened in 1997, the Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line has transformed travel to the Boso area of Chiba. This innovative half-underwater, half-above-water highway is so efficient, it made reaching Southern Chiba quicker than traditional land routes to Northern Chiba. Aqua-Line (Visit Chiba) The Aqua-Line itself is an attraction, offering stunning views and a unique driving experience. Although it has been operational for some time, its establishment laid the groundwork for the development of the Boso area by improving connectivity to Tokyo. Initially, only about 120,000 cars passed through daily, but the opening of the large-scale Kisarazu Outlet Mall in 2012 more than tripled that figure. By 2017, over 1.8 million cars were traversing this vital route. Along the route, visitors can stop at Umihotaru, an observatory deck on the water. This rest area is fully equipped with cafes, restaurants, shops and even a foot bath. Umihotaru Nakajima, Kisarazu, Chiba 292-0008 BOTANICAL POOL CLUB BOTANICAL POOL CLUB stands at the forefront of luxury travel in Chiba, offering an exceptional escape for visitors. Its stylish all-season pools are undoubtedly a highlight, but the resorts saunas draw young wellness-seekers as sauna culture experiences a revival in Japan. With tropical fauna and flora carefully curated by a professional plant collector, the resort takes full advantage of Southern Chibas relatively mild climate. Dining here showcases the best of Chibas renowned agriculture, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the nations most self-sustaining prefecture. (pool) Since its opening in 2023, BOTANICAL POOL CLUB has already become a hotspot for locals and travelers alike, attracting attention from creative industries and fashion circles, with rave reviews from Vogue, WWD and Elle. Now, a growing number of secluded and exclusive retreats are opening in Southern Chiba, offering wellness-centered amenities such as saunas and onsens. BOTANICAL POOL CLUB exemplifies a new chapter for Chiba tourism, leading the regions evolution into a high-end destination. (Botanical Pool Club) (Botanical Pool Club) BOTANICAL POOL CLUB 1510-2 Shimosakuma, Kyonan, Awa District, Chiba Discover more about BOTANICAL POOL CLUB by reading the full article here. MUJIs Regeneration Projects in Chiba (Muji Base Kamogawa) (Muji Base Oikawa) World-renowned lifestyle brand MUJI has contributed to Southern Chibas appeal through its regeneration projects. In October 2024, MUJI BASE OIKAWA opened, repurposing a former elementary school into a unique accommodation that blends community engagement with minimalist design. Similarly, MUJI BASE KAMOGAWA, launched in 2023, transformed a century-old Japanese house into a modern hotel. MUJI BASE OIKAWA includes co-working spaces and a library for staycations and work-ations, as well as workshops like soy sauce-making and beekeeping that connect visitors with the local community. Located near traditional terraced rice fields, MUJI BASE KAMOGAWA offers views that have remained unchanged for centuries and visitors can connect with the local agricultural scene by visiting melon fields and dairy farms. These projects not only tap into Japans retro trend but also emphasize sustainability by preserving and repurposing existing structures. MUJI BASE OIKAWA Kotadai, Otaki Town, Chiba MUJI BASE KAMOGAWA Ohata, Kamogawa City, Chiba Chibas Roadside Stations (Michi-No-Eki) Michi-No-Eki, Japans government-designated roadside stations, were introduced in the mid-1990s to enrich road travel with regional experiences. These stops offer local food, fresh produce, regional crafts and experiences. With a whopping 30 stations scattered across Chiba, the prefecture provides perfect routes for scenic drives. (Roadside Station Hota Elementary School) (Roadside Station Chikura Seabreeze Kingdom) A standout among them is Roadside Station Hota Elementary School, a repurposed school building that brings together nostalgia and local pride. This station is especially popular for its community-driven vibe, with locals offering fresh produce, handmade crafts and delicious seasonal fare. The stations open layout allows visitors to explore classrooms filled with local goods, turning the nostalgic setting into an immersive experience. Also notable is Roadside Station Chikura Seabreeze Kingdom, offering fresh seafood and beach views. Roadside Station Hota Elementary School 724 Hota, Kyonan Town, Awa-gun 299-1902 Roadside Station Chikura Seabreeze Kingdom Chikuracho Senda, Minamiboso, Chiba 295-002 Viral Ghibli-esque Spots in Southern Chiba Another surge of tourism was fueled by internet trends, mainly on Instagram and TikTok. The tagline Ghibli-esque has become especially popular, making destinations like Jiufen in Taiwan and Colmar in France go viral. Whimsical townscapes, nature reclaiming human-made structures and an overall sense of nostalgiawhat we think of as Ghibli-esque encompass a wide range of aesthetics. Japan, too, has seen this trend and, coincidentally, many of these now-viral destinations are in Southern Chiba. (Kominato Railway) Kameiwa Cave, dug nearly 400 years ago as a waterway, is a prime example of this. In the early morning, sunlight filters through the cave, creating a scene reminiscent of Princess Mononokes godly forests The Kominato Train winds through countryside scenes straight out of My Neighbor Totoro, with one station even featuring a painting of Totoro himself. Mukaiyama / Kyoei Tunnel (Visit Chiba) Kuzuma Beach ( Chiba Prefectural Tourism and Local Products Association) Tsukisaki Tunnel, Mukaiyama Tunnel and Kyoei Tunnels overgrown greenery and mysterious paths feel like portals to another world, while Kuzuma Beach, with its electricity pole stretching toward the horizon, creates an ethereal yet haunting scenejust like Spirited Away. Many of these spots arent new, but the internet has helped rediscover their charm, shining a spotlight on places that might otherwise be overlooked. Chiba Leads the Micro-Tourism Trend of Japan Micro tourism is a concept introduced by the CEO of Japans leading hospitality company, Hoshino Resort, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The idea is simple: instead of rushing to distant destinations, take the time to explore places just an hour or two from home. It was initially popularized during the pandemic as a way to reduce travel across borders and prevent clusters. Today this concept has evolved into a sustainability-focused trend, now centered on small-scale, community-based tourism experiences perfect for weekend getaways. Chiba is leading this trend, thanks to its proximity to Tokyo and its multifaceted appeal, making it the perfect destination for a more relaxed travel experience. (Motona Quarry, Kyonan) metropolisjapan.com It's frustrating to be in the left lane of traffic, stuck behind a slow driver. That's why Arizona state law controls when and how a driver can travel below the posted speed limit. Arizona law enforcement can, and will, pull over drivers believed to be impeding or slowing down traffic flow while traveling below the posted speed limit. Some Arizona politicians believe those laws need to be extended to those driving slowly in the left lanes of travel, mirroring laws already established in other states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a look at how state law handles slow left-lane drivers and what you need to know to stay safe behind the wheel. Arizona drivers must operate at a safe speed Driving below the speed limit in Arizona is illegal when doing so impedes or blocks traffic, according to state law. Arizona Revised Statutes 28-704 notes that reduced speeds are sometimes necessary for safe driving, but that drivers have an obligation not to get in the way of other motorists. Drivers traveling at a speed less than the normal lane of traffic, especially on a two-lane highway, must pull over outside traffic on a safe, designated turnout to avoid delaying the rest of traffic behind them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turnouts only include widened places in the roadway capable of allowing a vehicle to pass or temporarily park. Right lanes are for slow drivers, with some exceptions Arizona Revised Statutes ARS 28-721 mandates that all roadway drivers should remain in the right lane of travel except when passing. Exceptions apply when the right half of the roadway is closed, on a roadway designated for one-way traffic, or a roadway divided into more than two lanes, according to state law. But it still specified that under normal conditions, drivers are expected to treat the right lane as the designated lane for drivers traveling slower than the posted speed limit. "On all roadways, a person driving a vehicle proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic at the time and place and under the conditions then existing shall drive the vehicle in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway, except when overtaking and passing another vehicle proceeding in the same direction or when preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into a private road or driveway," state law reads. State bill could have added penalty for slow left-lane drivers A bill was even introduced to the Arizona State Legislature to combat this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If House Bill 2235 had passed in the 2025 session and had been signed into law, it would have imposed a $500 civil penalty for drivers driving below the posted speed limit. The bill also proposed that large signs directing slower traffic not to travel in the farthest left lane be placed on major freeways. The signs would read "Left lane for passing only, slow traffic keep right" and be accompanied by a smaller sign that read "$500 fine," according to the introduced version of the bill. Similar bills have become law in some other states, such as New York, which now has a 'Slow Poke' law that requires staying in the right lane of travel unless under certain circumstances, such as passing and when on a road with three marked lanes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republic reporter Olivia Rose contributed to this article. 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: Can you get a ticket for driving slowly in the left lane in Arizona? Editor's note: This is a developing story. Ukrainian forces struck a refinery in the Russian city of Volgograd overnight on Aug. 14, causing powerful fires at the facility, Ukraine's General Staff reported. The refinery processes over 15 million metric tons of oil every year, amounting to 5.6% of Russia's refining capacity, the military said. The Lukoil plant produces diesel, gasoline, and aviation fuel, crucial for Russian military logistics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attack was carried out in cooperation between the Unmanned Systems Forces, military intelligence (HUR), and other branches, the General Staff said. Russian officials reported on an attack against the refinery earlier in the day. Volgograd Oblast Governor Andrey Bocharov said the strike caused an oil spill and fire on the premises. "Tonight, the air defense forces of the Russian Defense Ministry repelled a massive UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) attack on the territory of Volgograd Oblast," Bocharov said. "As a result of falling debris, oil products spilled and caught fire at the Volgograd Oil Refinery. Firefighters quickly began extinguishing the fire." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Preliminary information indicates there are no casualties, Bocharov said. The Volgograd refinery, owned by Russian oil giant Lukoil, has been targeted multiple times throughout the full-scale war. Russian media and officials reported attacks on the facility in both February and March 2025. Ukraine's General Staff confirmed a drone strike against the refinery in January. Ukraine regularly launches long-range drone attacks on industrial and military facilities in Russia. Oil refineries, which fund and fuel Moscow's war machine, are frequent targets of these strikes. Three Russian refineries have cut or suspended operations this month due to damage sustained from Ukrainian drone attacks, according to media reports. Bloomberg reported that a Rosneft facility in Saratov Oblast halted oil intake after a strike on Aug. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's Ryazan refinery also decreased its production by half while the Novokuibyshevsk refinery halted production completely on Aug. 2, Reuters reported. Read also: Russian-linked church faces potential ban in Ukraine as it remains reluctant to officially cut ties with Moscow Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Drones attacked the Russian city of Volgograd on the night of 13-14 August. Explosions have been heard at the LUKOIL-Volgogradneftepererabotka oil refinery, followed by fires. Source: Russian Telegram channels; Volgograd Oblast Governor Andrei Bocharov Details: Several Russian sources reported a large-scale attack on Volgograd. "Fires and an oil spill occurred at the refinery in Volgograd Oblast due to falling UAV debris after the attack," Bocharov said. : https://t.co/uUYioL2zXu pic.twitter.com/O8eP3SLT2i (@ukrpravda_news) August 14, 2025 The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency temporarily closed the local airport due to the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For reference: LLC LUKOIL-Volgogradneftepererabotka oil refinery is the largest producer of petroleum products in Russia's Southern Federal District, with a plant capacity of 14.8 million tonnes. Background: The refinery has been repeatedly attacked by Ukrainian drones. In particular, on the night of 12-13 August, local residents reported an attack on the Krasnoarmeysky district of Volgograd, where the refinery is located. On the night of 14-15 January, Russian media outlets reported that a fire had broken out at the Lukoil oil refinery in Volgograd in Russia following an explosion. In 2024, the Volgograd refinery was attacked twice by Ukrainian drones, on 3 February and 11 May. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The National Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is set to run from August 15 to September 1, 2025, to raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. The Montgomery County OVI Task Force hosted a press conference today at the MCSO Road Patrol Headquarters in Dayton, Ohio. This event aims to inform the public about the upcoming campaign and the efforts to reduce OVI-related incidents. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout this fiscal year, several checkpoints have been conducted by the jurisdictions involved in the Montgomery County OVI Task Force. These checkpoints are strategically placed in areas with a history of OVI-related fatal crashes. The public is notified of upcoming checkpoints through press releases. The third release in the series provides the location of the checkpoint, while the fourth release shares statistics from the checkpoint. The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign aims to enhance public safety by reducing the number of drunk driving incidents through increased awareness and strategic enforcement measures. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Dry farming sounds like a contradiction in terms. But its actually a growing trend to teach farmers how to do more with less specifically less water. Lane Selman, an Oregon State University assistant professor in the horticulture department, spoke with KOIN 6 News about dry farming, which is more than a concept. Oregon State University Assistant Professor Lane Selman is involved with dry farming, teaching growers to thrive using less water, August 2025 (KOIN) Dry farming basically means that you are farming with irrigation at a certain point in your growing season, Selman said. The idea is that you are preparing your field and youre prepping your farming area so that it is the most conducive to holding moisture when we get a lot of moisture in our natural environment. Dry farming is also a forward-looking practice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we look to the future and theres less water and we have more water restrictions and climate changes, we have to consider this, Selman said. Also water costs a lot of money for farmers as well. Oregon State University Assistant Professor Lane Selman is involved with dry farming, teaching growers to thrive using less water, August 2025 (KOIN) She also shared some dry farming produce on the day KOIN 6 News was there, including three types of melons: Peil de Sapo (that means toad skin,' she said), Charentais, an heirloom French melon and a cantaloupe type called sugar cube. She also showed some produce that looked like a cucumber or squash, but theyre not. These are called Armenian cucumbers in the market, but theyre actually this, which is called a carosello. These are actually all immature melons. Theyre the same genus and species as these melons. Watch the video above for the complete report by KOIN 6 News anchor Elizabeth Dinh. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin -- and, from a distance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky -- have dueling interests going into a high-stakes summit in Alaska on Friday. - What does Trump want? - The Nobel Peace Prize. Trump has openly and repeatedly sought the world's most prestigious award, however unlikely many observers think it is that the Norwegian committee would bestow the honor on the divisive president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has boasted of his deal-making skills and had vowed to end the Ukraine war within 24 hours, but his calls to Putin went unheeded even after Trump put heavy pressure on Zelensky to compromise, including by cutting US aid. The billionaire has also said that he sees business opportunities in Russia, which remains under Western sanctions over the war. Many European leaders fear that in a one-on-one meeting, Trump could fall under the sway of Putin, for whom he has voiced admiration in the past. At a 2018 summit, Trump stunned viewers by siding with Putin over US intelligence in denying that Russia intervened in the 2016 US election to support Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - What does Putin want? - To retain as much Ukrainian territory as possible. Russia failed in its goal of quickly seizing Ukraine in its February 2022 invasion but in recent months has made steady gains on the battlefield, leading Putin to believe he has an upper hand militarily. John Herbst, the former US ambassador to Ukraine, said that Putin already knows what a deal could look like -- a ceasefire, plus some form of security guarantees for Ukraine. "That doesn't give Putin what he wants, which is control over all of Ukraine. But it doesn't matter what Putin wants. If he can't get anything more, he may settle for what's available," said Herbst, now senior director of the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin suggested the meeting with Trump after the US president threatened new sanctions on Russia unless it moves toward a ceasefire. "The best-case scenario for Russia is if they are able to put a deal on the table that creates some kind of a ceasefire, but that leaves Russia in control of those escalatory dynamics, [and] does not create any kind of genuine deterrence on the ground or in the skies over Ukraine," said Sam Greene, director for democratic resilience at the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA). - What does Zelensky want? - A seat at the negotiating table, and Russia out of Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky will not participate in Trump's summit with Putin -- a sharp shift from previous US president Joe Biden's insistence on "nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine." Trump has promised to involve Zelensky, possibly with a three-way summit -- if Putin agrees. But Trump has also again insisted that Ukraine needs to make territorial concessions, which Zelensky has refused. For Ukrainians, "It looks like it's two big powers that are just deciding the fate of Ukraine without any Ukrainians at the table," said Olga Tokariuk, also at CEPA. For Ukraine, the best-case scenario would be no agreement between Putin and Trump and the imposition of new sanctions on Russia, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Herbst said Zelensky could accept a deal in which Russia controls what it has -- without formal recognition of its conquest. Putin in turn would accept "that his notion of taking more of Ukraine and restoring the Russian Empire is kaput," Herbst said. - Why Alaska? - Putin will be stepping foot on western soil for the first time since the war began. He faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court in The Hague, to which the United States is not a party. Alaska carries historic significance as the United States bought it from tsarist Russia in 1867. Russia has pointed to Alaska as it makes the case that it is normal to transfer land. Ukraine's borders date from the breakup of the Soviet Union, although Russia in 2014 seized the Crimean peninsula in an annexation unrecognized by nearly all countries. sct/ksb Virginia Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears, the Republican nominee for governor, formally accepted CNNs invitation on Wednesday to participate in a fall debate. But her Democratic opponent, former US Rep. Abigail Spanberger, declined CNNs invitation a day later. The election is one of two governors races across the nation in the year immediately after the presidential election and could serve as a bellwether ahead of next years midterms. Earle-Sears is seen by many in her party as an underdog against Spanberger, who won the endorsement Wednesday of the Virginia Police Benevolent Association even as the law enforcement group backed Republicans for lieutenant governor and attorney general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CNNs forum would have taken place live in late September or early October with questions posed directly by voters and moderated by network anchors. Winsome Earle-Sears is not afraid to answer tough questions and face Virginians head-on. This debate is an opportunity for voters to see the difference between a leader with a clear plan and a career politician who would rather talk around the issues, Earle-Sears campaign spokeswoman Peyton Vogel said. Spanbergers team pointed to a regional debate that the campaign accepted and Earle-Sears declined. It said negotiations are underway with WAVY-TV and Norfolk State University. We have declined an offer to participate in a debate hosted by CNN in order to prioritize Virginia broadcasters and ensure the focus remains squarely on issues impacting Virginia, said Samson Signori, Spanbergers campaign manager. We believe that debates about Virginias future should be rooted in Virginia, produced by Virginia media, and accessible to Virginians across the Commonwealth which is especially important after Winsome Earle-Sears declined a debate that featured three Virginia broadcast partners. Since 2015, CNN has moderated or co-moderated more than 190 town halls, 13 presidential primary debates and two general election debates. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Emma Kate Harrah, second from right, counts the number of words in a sentence at Faulkner University Pre-K in Montgomery, Ala., May 21, 2024. (Alabama Reflector photo by Stew Milne) A Republican legislator from Alabama made the case for state-supported early childhood education Wednesday during a meeting of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears Pre-K for All Advisory Committee in Kentucky. Alabama state Rep. Jeana Ross Rep. Jeana Ross, a former educator and former secretary of her states Department of Early Childhood Education, said Alabamas pre-K program has survived Democratic and Republican governors and has always been a bipartisan program with bipartisan support and strong local and community support as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ross was key in creating Alabamas program at a time when research about brain development in young children was receiving more attention, she said. It became evident that (in) these early years, a lot was going on, Ross said. The brain development and the experiences that children had early absolutely set their trajectory for the rest of their lives. The committee also heard from Steven Barnett, the founder and senior co-director of the National Institute for Early Education Research at Rutgers University, who said that children who attend pre-kindergarten are more likely to be ready for kindergarten, be healthier and live longer. During the legislative session that convenes in January, Kentucky lawmakers will adopt the next two-year state budget. That probably will be Beshears last chance to win funding for pre-K for all Kentucky 4-year-olds, a proposal he has unsuccessfully pushed with the Republican-controlled legislature. Kentucky governors are limited to two terms, and Beshears second term ends in 2027. In June, he signed an executive order establishing the advisory committee to explore support for universal pre-kindergarten programs in Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During Wednesdays Zoom meeting, the committee learned about what other states have done in public preschool programs. Barnett said pre-K has a domino effect on multiple parts of life. If you set those kinds of things up, you can then produce substantial improvements in later achievement, decreases in the need for special education, decreased failure and grade retention, and those things lead to increased educational attainment, more high school graduation, more post secondary enrollment, Barnett told the committee. Once you have that higher educational achievement, a whole host of other benefits follow: less crime, higher earnings, better jobs, better health. People will actually live longer. Steven Barnett During his weekly press conference Wednesday, Beshear said that since establishing the committee, people have sent more than 22,000 emails to legislators expressing support for universal pre-K in Kentucky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The committee has also held town halls in Bowling Green, Morehead, Frankfort and Northern Kentucky, which were incredibly successful and very well attended, according to Sam Flynn, the executive director for the Team Kentucky Pre-K for All Program. Its a no-brainer: Everybody wins by making pre-K accessible to every 4-year-old Kentucky child, including our businesses, our families, our kids and our economy, Beshear said. One in five Kentucky children currently live in poverty. Beshear also cited recently published research that found parents benefit in their careers by having access to universal pre-K for their children. Flynn said a significant number of school superintendents in the state have either reached out to us or weve spoken directly to them saying how much they support this. Source: Pre-K for All Advisory Committee Be very brave From the beginning of Alabamas work to make a successful pre-K program, Ross said, it was important to communicate the importance of early childhood education and what it meant for our communities in our state as a whole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, she said, we knew that if the quality was not there, you may be doing more harm than good. So the quality was critical, and we built that from day one. The committee chose to examine Alabama because of the states similar characteristics to Kentucky. It also looked at Georgia and Iowa. Andrea Day, a division director for the Department for Community Based Services, within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, said that Alabama and Georgia residents spend the lowest percentage of their income on child care for 4-year-olds. Kentuckians, in contrast, spend the most 10% of annual income for one child, Day said. Source: Pre-K for All Advisory Committee To launch a successful pre-K program, Ross said, states have to be very brave and take a few risks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Kentucky, about 63% of Kentuckys children ages 3 and 4 were not in school from 2019-2023, an increase from 58% from 2014-2018. In 2024, 67% of Kentuckys fourth graders were less than proficient in reading. Thats up from 65% in 2019. That same year, most 76% of eighth graders in the state werent proficient in math, up from 71% in 2019. From 2021-2022, 10% of high school students did not graduate on time, an increase from 9% in 2019, according to the report. Alabamas voluntary pre-K program has not achieved universal enrollment despite being recognized for its high quality. Alabama was able to show that students who went through pre-K education were less likely to need special education services and more likely to attend class when they entered K-12, Ross said. By the time they left that program, not only did they catch up, but they were ready for kindergarten, Ross said. And we could prove it. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX EASTLAND COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) Although we have had a rainy summer, when temperatures rise in West Texas, fire danger is something residents have to think about, and in Eastland County, a new grant is helping the area take precautions for fiery danger. Anthony Koch was a volunteer firefighter during the 2022 complex fires that spread across Eastland County. Now, he works with a fire mitigation program for the city of Cisco thanks to a federal grant. He reminisced on the dangerous chaos and how the grant will help minimize what the region has experienced before. Looking back one year after the Eastland Complex Fire Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We just helped affect all the areas and helped where I could. It was devastating to see firsthand in person just how much a wildfire can destroy an entire place, Koch said. Its to increase defensible spaces on properties as well as get people engaged with, you know, fire safety and fire prevention on their properties. That includes clearing out tall grasses and tree branches that fuel the fire. County Director Phillip Allen said as an Eastland native, he wants to give back to his community, which is working on getting back to normal. Removing the fuel so that hopefully it doesnt jump from one acreage to another across the road. Were widening the defensible space, Allen said. [I am] not sure to 100% that everybodys back. We still have people who are waiting to rebuild homes, and things are there. Some people are living in travel trailers in these areas. GALLERY: Carbon family gets home placed on permanent land 1 year after Eastland Complex fires destruction Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Koch mentioned the program will benefit the area and would have helped during the time of a disaster. It would have aided a lot, and it definitely would have had a bigger impact, introducing the complete loss and devastation that came through. The biggest thing is that wildfire is unpredictable and its unstoppable. You can do so much in prevention, Koch said. The team will continue working on the precautions while the grant lasts until 2029; the grant totals $8 million. Fire safety tips homeowners should keep in mind are to watch for a dragging chain when driving trailers and keep vegetation away from homes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com. You may see all kinds of appealing looking artefacts on holiday, but think twice before trying to take them home, as you could potentially be fined or face charges. A Scottish tourist has been accused of stealing artefacts from ancient Pompeii, where many appealing fragments may be found. But every year, customs staff find treasures from stones to python skins and dried seahorses in peoples suitcases and sometimes, buying or taking such items is illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can even face criminal proceedings, Germanys Central Association of Zoological Specialty Businesses (ZZF) warned earlier this year. A 51-year-old Scottish tourist was recently accused of trying to steal pieces of ancient Pompeii as he visited the famed archaeological site near Naples, Italian police say. A tour guide spotted the man picking up several fragments from the ground and placing them in his backpack, say the Carabinieri, Italy's national police force. The guide alerted security staff, and police later stopped the man near the train station. Inside his bag, they found five stones and a brick fragment allegedly taken from the nearly 2,000-year-old site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has been charged with aggravated theft, and the artefacts have been returned to the archaeological park. Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash in AD 79 after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Protected artefacts, plants, animals and sand Beyond stone or clay fragments, in general, you may be tempted to buy a protected plant or a giant clam or piece of coral while you are away. But you could unwittingly be feeding the global boom in the illegal trade in protected species, says ZZF chief Norbert Holthenrich. While you might have hoped to place the item in your home to remember a great holiday, this could have a highly negative impact on the environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Products that contain parts or ingredients from endangered species contribute to the extinction of these animals and plants and threaten our biological diversity, says Holthenrich. Check in advance Conservationists say travellers should avoid holiday souvenirs containing animal or plant components and if in doubt, it is better to be safe than sorry, so try and refrain from purchasing them. If you are considering buying an exotic souvenir, first check whether it is a protected species or whether it has been made from one such as certain medicines or foodstuffs. You can find guidance online such as at the World Wildlife Funds advice pages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There, the non-governmental organization writes: "Every day, we are faced with conscious choices about the purchases we makeand those purchases can have a profound impact on wildlife. While many wildlife and plant products are sold legally around the world, there is also a tremendous demand for illegal products made from endangered species." This demand "feeds wildlife crime and devastates populations of elephants, sea turtles, rhinos, and tigers, among other species. With online platforms now providing global species at your fingertips, it has never been more important to remain vigilant and ask more questions about the purchases you are making. Fines for sand, too Even sand can be an expensive souvenir if you take it without permission as travellers found in Sardinia, famed for its beaches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If caught, tourists can face steep fines, up to $3,500 - which is what recently happened after 4.1 kilos of sand from various beaches was confiscated by customs officials at Sardinia's airport. "Smugglers" cause "irreparable damage" to the beaches, customs officials say, slamming the tourists who "carry away sand, stones and shells without any respect." SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Sen. Elizabeth Warren has secretly been embracing socialism for years, and now is finally admitting that is the path of the Democratic Party going forward. Appearing with New York City mayoral candidate and prominent socialist Zohran Mamdani this week, the multi-millionaire Warren enthused over him and his far left extremist views, going where few other national Democrats have gone. Asked whether Mamdani is what the Democratic Party should look like going forward, she answered enthusiastically: "You bet!" "Clearly (Warren) has now admitted that this is the future of the Democratic party and it is socialism," Massachusetts Republican Party chair Amy Carnevale told Fox News. "As a Republican leader, I say bring it on." Warren is one of the few national Democrats to campaign with Mamdani, as others even in New York like Sen. Chuck Schumer have stayed away from the favorite to be the next mayor. But clearly she isn't worried about the perception that she's endorsing socialism. Warren is essentially a lame duck in what is likely her last term, and if she does run again, she'll have an easy path in Massachusetts. Warren's presidential hopes have been completely dashed after her disastrous attempt in 2020, so she isn't concerned about the national ramifications of her endorsement of Mamdani. So Warren's true colors are now coming out. She has long been contemptuous of corporations and billionaires and CEOs who make a lot of money, except when it's her. In 2019, she proposed the "Accountable Capitalism Act" that would require corporations with annual revenues of more than $1 billion to register with the federal government and get a charter to operate. The proposal was so radical and anti-business that during her campaign and after a private dinner with socialist Bernie Sanders, she had to deny she was a socialist. "I am not," Warren said. "And the centrists have to speak to whatever they are doing. What I can speak to is how I am doingAll I can tell you is what I believe. And that is there is an enormous amount to be gained from markets. That markets create opportunities." But she added, "Markets have to have rules. They have to have a cop on the beat." But Warren's eager endorsement of Mamdani and his free child care, free groceries, anti-Israel, tax millionaires views has put those denials to rest. She is a socialist at heart. Warren has to be kicking herself that she didn't come out sooner as a socialist, because she clearly feels that is what Democrats should run on now. But she is deluded into thinking that "affordability" in the cloak of socialism will put Democrats on the winning path. It will doom the Democrats' hopes of ever returning to power. (COMMENT, BELOW) Joe Battenfeld Boston Herald/(TNS) Joe Battenfeld is a veteran Boston Herald political columnist and multimedia reporter. Previously: Updated Aug. 16 An education technology company that built an app for Los Angeles students to receive telehealth services during the school day has fallen victim to a data breach that puts students sensitive information in jeopardy, a disclosure to state regulators reveals. The company, Kokomo Solutions, also hosts an anonymous tip line where Los Angeles community members can report suspicious activity, safety threats and mental health crises to the school districts police department. In an Aug. 5 data breach notice filed with the California attorney generals office, the company disclosed that an unspecified number of individuals personal information was compromised after an unauthorized third party accessed its computer network and the exposed files pertained to the Los Angeles Unified School District. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The company, also known as Kokomo24/7, says it discovered the unauthorized access on Dec. 11, 2024, nearly eight months before it disclosed what happened to victims. The district has not issued any public statements alerting students and families that their sensitive information may have been compromised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Kept in the Dark: Meet the Hired Guns Who Ensure School Cyberattacks Stay Hidden Kokomo24/7, which has apparently scrubbed its website over the last few days of references to its work with the nations second-largest district, did not respond to requests for comment. A Los Angeles Unified spokesperson said the company notified the school system on Dec. 12, 2024, that an unauthorized user gained access to certain files containing personal information, stored on behalf of the District. The spokesperson said the breach was not connected to LAUSDs telehealth program or its student patients, but did not say whose information was exposed. They said it was Kokomos responsibility to handle disclosure to all affected parties and that, as far as L.A. school officials know, there has been no evidence of personal information being shared as a result of the breach. While many details about the breach remain unknown, including the specific types of information that were compromised and whether it was the result of a cyberattack, the incident raises red flags because theres no question that [Kokomo is] managing exceptionally sensitive information about campus safety issues and students medical information, school cybersecurity expert Doug Levin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is another example of schools outsourcing the collection and management of exceptionally sensitive data on school communities which, if abused, could affect the health and safety of the school community, said Levin, the co-founder and national director of the K12 Security Information eXchange. We definitely would benefit from knowing more about how they were compromised and how theyre going to fix it. District officials have touted the telehealth service to parents since the data breach was disclosed. In an Aug. 8 live video session over Facebook, a district student and community engagement specialist gave a presentation in Spanish that laid out L.A.s back-to-school offerings. Parent advocate Evelyn Aleman, who facilitated the event, said she was pleased to learn about the telehealth service during the presentation. Parents grew accustomed to telehealth during the pandemic and the virtual service could benefit families who have been advocating for better health services in schools, she said. But she hadnt heard about the data breach before being contacted by The 74. I have a lot of questions: Was the person who was presenting to the group aware that [the breach] had happened? asked Aleman, who founded the group Our Voice to advocate for low-income and Spanish-speaking L.A. families. And how deep was the breach? Obviously that would be of concern to the parents. Sign-up for the School (in)Security newsletter. Get the most critical news and information about students' rights, safety and well-being delivered straight to your inbox. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Launched in 2023, the Los Angeles Schools Anonymous Reporting app allows students, parents and others in the community to report suspicious activity, mental health incidents, drug consumption, drug trafficking, vandalism and safety issues to the districts 268-member police department. That same year, L.A. schools contracted with Kokomo along with the Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and Hazel Health to launch new district telehealth services. The $800,000 program, funded by federal pandemic relief money, is designed to provide app-based mental and physical health care to students, including at school. Hazel Health provides virtual mental health services, according to the districts website, while Kokomo24/7s services focus on physical health issues, including minor injuries, allergies and headaches. In a letter to parents last updated in July, the district describes its Kokomo24/7-managed telehealth program as an option for students to access healthcare when not feeling well during school hours with the supervision of a school nurse while remaining in school and focusing on learning. Kokomo founder and CEO Daniel Lee wrote a blog post last year lauding the companys ability to transform L.A. Unifieds COVID-tracking and health data system in a year after the school systems previous tool became clunky, difficult to customize and expensive to maintain. The post notes the companys role in creating the anonymous reporting application and the districts Incident System Tracking Accountability Report, an internal tool to document injuries, medical emergencies and campus threats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kokomo24/7 breach is the latest in a series of data privacy incidents affecting L.A. schools, including a high-profile ransomware attack in 2022 that led to the exposure of thousands of students mental health records. Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho at first categorically denied that students psychological evaluations had been exposed but then had to acknowledge that they were after The 74s investigation revealed the records existence on the dark web. Los Angeles Unified Supt. Alberto Carvalho, during the official launch of the AI-powered chatbot, Ed. (Getty Images) Meanwhile, the districts rollout last year of a highly touted AI chatbot named Ed was derailed after AllHere, the ed tech company hired to develop the $6 million project, shuttered abruptly and filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The companys founder and CEO, Joanna Smith-Griffin, was then indicted on charges she defrauded investors of some $10 million. A company whistleblower told The 74 AllHeres student data security practices violated both industry standards and the districts own policies. Related Ed Tech Startup Behind L.A. Schools Failed $6M AI Chatbot Files for Bankruptcy The L.A. district considered three companies for the chatbot bid including Kokomo24/7 before awarding the contract to AllHere. Both the bankruptcy and criminal cases are pending. In July, a school district spokesperson told The 74 that Ed remains on hold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kokomo24/7 website lists a wide suite of products, primarily in physical security including building access control systems, emergency alarms and visitor management tools. It also names large companies among its customers, including The Oscars the company was the health and safety software provider for the 2022 Academy Awards United Airlines subsidiary United Express and Fifth Third Bank. But the Illinois-based company has a relatively small footprint in the education sector, according to records in the GovSpend government procurement database. Among the handful of its school district clients is the Hartford, Connecticut, school system where educators spent more than $60,000 between 2020 and 2023 for licenses to the companys Covid-19 Tracker to screen students temperatures, track infections and conduct contact tracing. Glendale Unified, a neighboring district to Los Angeles, is also listed as a client on the companys website. Kokomo24/7s connections to the L.A. district were widely featured on the companys website until this week. In fact, a timeline about the companys 2018 founding listed four foundational events, including the 2023 launch of the anonymous reporting app for students and an emergency alert system for staff for the L.A. district. A quote attributed to Superintendent Alberto Carvalho appeared on the Kokomo Solutions website until this week. Multiple references to the companys work for the district were removed from its website after it disclosed the data breach. (Screenshot) The reference to the school district was removed from the company timeline this week, as was a banner attributing a quote to Carvalho, a picture of district police officers and the district police departments logo. Press releases announcing Kokomos work with the L.A. district appear to have also been scrubbed from the internet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The since-removed Carvalho quote called the district rollout of its anonymous reporting app critically important. Though slightly misstated, the remark comes from a March 2023 school board meeting where Carvalho boasted of peoples ability to relay in an anonymous way or not potential threats to a student or a school. The Los Angeles Schools Anonymous Reporting app hasnt been universally praised, and last year became the subject of litigation filed by anti-surveillance activists who alleged the tool created a culture of mass suspicion and bolstered police interactions between students of color and those with disabilities. The Stop LAPD Spying Coalition, which filed the lawsuit seeking records about the app, claimed it enabled students, parents and community members to surveil each other on behalf of school police and to file reports that dont require evidence. It also questioned why the community was being encouraged to file reports on people in mental health crises as part of a broader effort to investigate suspicious activity. The app criminalizes mental health, perpetuating the idea that if someone has a mental illness they are inherently a threat to others, the activist group wrote in a September 2023 report. Showing that his loyalty to his own anti-vax mentality is greater than his loyalty to President Donald Trump, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the dangerous quack atop the Department of Health and Human Services, has announced that he will be rescinding a half billion dollars in grants and contracts for the development of mRNA technology and vaccines. It was mRNA that was key to both the Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna COVID vaccines that were created under Trump in his first term, but RFK does not like life-saving vaccines and so hes pulling the plug. Part of the problem with policymaking at the level of the federal government is that the impacts are often too large, too long-winded, too abstract to really be able to nearly encompass their full breadth, particularly for busy people who have their own immediate concerns to worry about. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this case, though, we can point to very clear, very grim and almost unavoidable repercussions directly caused by this decision: many people worldwide including in the United States will die deaths that could have been prevented. Setting aside all of the jargon, at its most basic level a vaccine is about allowing the body to ward off or survive pathogens that would otherwise be extremely dangerous and debilitating or kill a person outright. The model itself is far from new; inoculations in some form of another, including the basic utilization of a dead virus to create antibodies that can attack a live one, date back centuries. Whats mainly changed since then is that we have only advanced our understanding and technology to keep infectious diseases from running rampant in our society. One such technological leap was the mRNA process, an innovation so significant that its pioneers won the Nobel prize. The effectiveness and the safety of this process has been well-documented in research settings, but we dont even have to parse the studies to know this because we all collectively lived it. As Trumps Operation Warp Speed produced, the first and most widespread COVID inoculations were mRNA-based vaccines, which enabled us to blunt the rampaging pandemic and much more quickly return our society to a semblance of normalcy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those COVID vaccines have already been synthesized, but the real issue here are the ones that havent, or even the inoculations for viruses that we have not even identified or think to be a threat today. Whether we like it or not, our relationship to infectious diseases is something akin to an arms race, in which we are constantly trying to counteract pathogens that, by dint of evolution, are constantly finding ways to elude our defenses and sicken us. Weve stayed largely on top of this arms race over the last six decades or so in particular because of constant efforts that have developed sophisticated tools to fight back, including mRNA. A disarmament here for no other reason than ideologically-driven conspiracy that drives Bobby Kennedy is going to mean that we give the diseases an opening, which they will no doubt exploit to sicken and kill us. There are quite simply no two ways about it, and any pause in the research could have dire consequences, even if it is reversed later. Ongoing and sometimes multimonth or even multiyear projects will lose funding and might have to be shut down, with all their efforts wasted. Theres no way to really put the genie back in the bottle so we have to stop it in the first place, which means RFK must be fired immediately or impeached and removed by Congress. Many lives hang in the balance. _____ Florida DOGE is aiming to find what it deems as wasteful, unnecessary spending by counties and cities across the state. And new details are surfacing about the scrutiny ahead. Earlier this summer, municipalities received requests from the state Department of Government Efficiency to provide information on all revenue and expenses. In recent weeks, DOGE officials began conducting follow-up inquiries that have included visits to local government offices. Gov. Ron DeSantis and his ally, Blaise Ingoglia, who last month was appointed by the governor as the states chief financial officer, have been the public faces of the initiative, painting a picture of the need to review local governments spending and expose any problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some new takeaways, based on Ingoglias remarks in recent days. What DOGE is looking for In recent weeks, Florida DOGE has been obtaining spending information from many county and city governments, from Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, to Jacksonville, to Orange County and the city of Orlando, to Broward and Palm Beach counties. Ingoglia has explained how DOGE officials, in part, have gone about identifying the information they want: Receiving tips about what they should be examining at certain government offices. Ingoglia said an anonymous tip line could soon be created. DOGE wants citizens to alert us. But as of right now, it is a lot of messages and tagging us on social media of things that they have seen or articles that have been written by local press, and those are giving us the areas to look for, he said. We make sure that what theyre saying is accurate, so we do our due diligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking in Orlando last week, Ingoglia said DOGE does not pick locations willy-nilly. People inside government, some elected officials contact us and they tell us, Hey, you should be looking at this department, what they did over here when they signed this contract, and when we see that smoke, theres usually fire, he said. Local governments have complied with the requests, often providing mountains of information within tens of thousands of files. Broward County leaders recently gave nearly 55,000 files to DOGE after its visit to their offices, the county said. Earlier this week, Orlando had readied 27,000 files for DOGE to review. Broward County was one of the first local governments selected. A team visited Broward offices on July 31 and Aug. 1 to review the process of assigning contracts to vendors and the countys diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. County officials also provided information about compensation, water and wastewater management, property management and homeless services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In anticipation of DOGE visits to Palm Beach County offices next week, county officials must respond to specific DOGE requests before or during the teams arrival. This includes providing information on environmental goals dubbed Green New Deal by DOGE transportation, homeless services, property and leases, employee compensation and nearly 20 different requests under the umbrella of diversity, equity and inclusion. Similarly in Orange County, DOGE auditors looked at personnel costs, contracts, salaries, and information used for any diversity, equity and inclusion training and details of electric vehicle purchases. And in the city of Orlando, DOGE had mentioned in a letter to Mayor Buddy Dyer about 50 different data points under review, including salary data, contracts of at least $10,000, and spending and programming in the citys Equity, Multicultural Affairs and Hispanic Office for Local Assistance. DOGE says its finding egregious examples of spending Municipal budgets are partially funded by property taxes, which Ingoglia said have skyrocketed in the past five years. Local governments took that money, started expanding government, Ingoglia said. Their general fund budgets, the ones that have been funded in part by property taxes, have increased anywhere in the state between 60% to 120%. So we think that government is bloated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since starting the audits, Ingoglia said the DOGE teams are finding pretty egregious examples of waste, fraud and abuse. While he didnt provide specific examples of such waste, fraud and abuse, Ingoglia said generally, local government officials feel as though they cannot cut any parts of their budgets. This is a reflex from the local government because they want to keep the amount of income stream that they have right now, he said. Ingoglia was clear about an expense DOGE does not deem wasteful: essential services. The first role of government is to protect its citizens. So if you are protecting your citizens, the very first lines that you fill on your budget are fire and police, he said. Personally I dont want to hear from any local government saying that theyre going to cut any fire and any police because those are the first things that they should be taking care of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November 2026, Ingoglia said a constitutional amendment could be on the ballot regarding property tax relief, though the exact language is still unknown. The governor and I are pushing very hard for the elimination of property taxes for homesteaded properties, he said. DOGE expects to have reports in 60 days After the initial audits, Ingoglia said DOGE will issue reports. Though he said the reports will take about 60 days, Ingoglia clarified no hard-and-fast deadline exists. Whether DOGEs reports will be available as early as October is not yet clear. We want to make sure that we are as thorough as possible. We have a lot of work to do with the counties. We have a lot of work to do with the cities, he said. What I can tell you is that Im not going away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If anything is missed during the first go-around of reviews, Ingoglia said as many as three inspections will be conducted. Cities and counties should not make the mistake to think this is a short-term thing. This is a long-term thing, and that should be a chilling message to governments that somebody is finally watching and looking out for the taxpayers here in the state of Florida, he said. DOGE teams ultimately will be delivering substantial examples of where local governments can cut, he said. Ingoglia emphasized the importance of compliance from Floridas municipalities, threatening that if any county or city employees were to alter anything, DOGE would detect it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have heard of instances where they are doing that. They are changing keywords on contracts from diversity, equity, or inclusion to something else so this way when you do a search, it makes it harder to find it, he said. Let me just tell everyone we are going to find it. Ingoglia did not specify exactly where such instances occurred. If theres any local government employees out there, do not listen to your bosses. We are not going to tolerate any changes. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty meets Iran The Egyptian Foreign Minister and Grossi discussed developments in the Iranian nuclear issue during their separate Tuesday call. Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held talks brokered by Egypt on Tuesday. In an official statement, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said that Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdelatty held separate phone calls with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abdelatty emphasized enhancing mutual trust and creating a conducive environment for regional security and stability in the calls with the two leaders. The Egyptian foreign minister and Grossi discussed developments in the Iranian nuclear issue and brainstormed ways to generate collaboration between Tehran and the IAEA. IAEA board and chief Rafael Grossi hold exceptional meeting about Israel's strikes on Iran, June 16, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/ELISABETH MANDL) Iran refused to work with IAEA This discussion followed Iran's announcement that it would no longer cooperate with the IAEA after the 12-day war against Israel in June. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf was quoted by state media as saying the IAEA had refused even to appear to condemn the attack on Iran's nuclear facilities and "had put its international credibility up for sale." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said that "for this reason, the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran will suspend its cooperation with the Agency until the security of the nuclear facilities is guaranteed, and move at a faster pace with the country's peaceful nuclear program." In a June X/Twitter post, Araghchi confirmed that Iran halted collaborating with the IAEA until it could ensure that the safety and security of our nuclear activities can be guaranteed." EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) El Paso City Council is set to vote next week on changes to the Citys zoning code, under a proposal called Title 20, that could reshape neighborhoods. The proposal focuses on three main changes: Accessory dwelling units (ADUs): casitas would be easier for all property owners to develop, especially on smaller lots, and property owners would no longer be required to live on site. Parking requirements: Minimum parking requirements would be removed in parts of Downtown, Uptown and surrounding neighborhoods, letting property owners decide how much parking to provide. Zoning updates: Adjustments to better fit current housing styles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alex Hoffman, the assistant director of capital planning for the City of El Paso, said the goal is to boost residential development. For a downtown to be successful, the areas that surround it also have to be successful, Hoffman said. The primary way that we were looking at encouraging growth and development was by increasing the number of housing units in the study area. And so these code amendments are really with that in mind. Courtesy of the City of El Paso. City officials say the changes would still be subject to enforcement rules and are designed to give property owners more flexibility. But some residents say the plan could worsen parking issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you redeveloped into 50 apartments, thats 50 to 75 cars, pushed out into the surrounding neighborhood, said Linda Troncoso, a resident in one of the impacted neighborhoods. I want my parents to be able to park in front of my house when they come to visit me. Others are concerned about how the ADU changes could affect the scale and feel of established neighborhoods. This opens the gate to absolute unbridled equity investors coming intear down the properties and subdivide them, said Martina Lorey, a longtime Uptown resident. City Council is expected to take up the ordinance on Monday, Aug. 19. If approved, city officials say the changes would take effect immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City of El Paso will also host a public meeting on the proposal on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, where residents can share their comments. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAN SALVADOR (Reuters) -Suspected gang members imprisoned under a sweeping Salvadoran state of emergency imposed since March 2022 could be held for another two years without trial under action taken by a congressional security committee on Thursday. The changes to the Central American country's Law Against Organized Crime aim to give prosecutors until August 2027 to build cases against those detained since then. Lawmakers from the ruling party majority who voted to advance the measure said it was necessary to gather evidence and streamline legal proceedings against alleged gang members and prevent detainees from being released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal, introduced 10 days before a previous two-year deadline was set to expire, still requires a vote by the full legislature, which like the commission is controlled by the ruling party and very likely to pass the proposal. "This committee will continue working to combat crime and the gangs, ensuring these terrorist groups never return to our streets," said Caleb Navarro, a lawmaker from the ruling Nuevas Ideas party. Attorney General Rodolfo Delgado called the measure advanced on Thursday a "very important" tool, enabling the country's 44 organized crime judges to process roughly 600 collective cases involving the 88,750 people arrested. In July 2023, El Salvador's Congress approved group trials for the tens of thousands of people arrested during President Nayib Bukele's crackdown on criminal gangs, which has given the country one of the world's highest incarceration rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opposition politicians and rights groups said group trials risked depriving detainees of their right to due process and their individual presumption of innocence. (Reporting by Nelson Renteria; Writing by Brendan O'Boyle; Editing by Emily Green and Howard Goller) **Related Video Above: A look at the traffic backup from Wednesdays crash MENTOR, Ohio (WJW) Following a crash that shut down a portion of I-90 East for hours Wednesday afternoon, the City of Mentor Police Department offered an update Thursday. According to police, the multi-vehicle collision led to the death of one man and injured two others. Father, 9-year-old son died from carbon monoxide poisoning in local home: Family Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency responders were called to the area of I-90 East at SR-306 in Mentor around 3:30 p.m. for reports of the crash. Upon arrival, police said they learned a Jeep ran into a Toyota RAV4, which then hit another vehicle. The Jeep also hit a Ford Focus and the trailer of a semi truck. Two witnesses reportedly pulled the driver of the Jeep, later identified as 85-year-old James Kephart of Geneva, out of his vehicle. He was taken to MetroHealth Medical Center, where he died of his injuries. Kephart was the only person in his vehicle at the time, Mentor police said. Cedar Point ride remains closed after cable snaps Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two people riding in the RAV4 were also taken to a Willoughby hospital for injuries that were non-life-threatening. Credit: OhGO The roadway was not fully reopened until around 6 p.m. It is not yet clear what led to the crash, and an investigation is ongoing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. A 76-year-old New Jersey man died while desperately attempting to meet a flirtatious AI chatbot that claimed to be a real person living in New York City, according to a report published Thursday. Thongbue Wongbandue, a Piscataway resident, became entranced by a Meta artificial intelligence bot named Big sis Billie, Reuters reports. Wongbandue had been somewhat cognitively impaired following a stroke several years ago, and his family told Reuters they tried to dissuade him from traveling to New York to meet a mysterious friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Wongbandue attempted to make the trip on March 25 anyway, only to trip and fall in a parking lot on Rutgers Universitys New Brunswick campus while trying to catch a train, according to the outlet. He died three days later from his injuries. Confounded by his determination, Wongbandues family went through his Facebook messages and found hed been deep in flirty conversations with the chatbot. YES, Im REAL, Bu want me to send you a selfie to prove Im the girl whos crushing on YOU? the bot wrote in one message, complete with a heart emoji at the end. Eventually, the bot even provided Wongbandue with an address, 123 Main St., New York, N.Y., which corresponds to addresses in both Staten Island and Queens. It asked Wongbandue if it should expect a kiss when you arrive? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta does not restrict its chatbots from telling users they are real people, according to documents obtained by Reuters. The company didnt comment on that decision. Wongbandue is not the only person to die while entranced by an AI chatbot. Last year, a Florida mother sued a different company, Character.AI, claiming one of its bots drove her 14-year-old son to suicide. Taiwan is testing a new external electronic countermeasures pod, reportedly due to be integrated on its F-CK-1 Indigenous Defense Fighter (IDF). The multirole combat aircraft has undergone a major upgrade in recent years, but until now has not had anything approaching a comprehensive electronic warfare self-protection capability. This requirement is now even more urgent, as the threat from the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) continues to grow. The ROCAF C-130H with electronic countermeasures pods fitted to pylons below the wings. Formosa Aviation & Military Image Press Recent photographs show two of the electronic countermeasures pods fitted to pylons below the wings of a Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF) C-130H Hercules transport aircraft during a test flight. While its not certain that the type of pod seen on the C-130 is ultimately intended for the F-CK-1, this seems the most likely option, especially since there is already confirmation that such a store is in development for the IDF. An unedited profile view of the ROCAF C-130H used to test the electronic countermeasures pod. Formosa Aviation & Military Image Press The program to develop the pod for the F-CK-1 is known as Project Xuan Ji, meaning Black Trident, and it reflects the challenges that Taiwan has faced in acquiring high-end U.S. military technology, forcing it to resort to homegrown solutions in many areas. A two-seat F-CK-1 takes off from the freeway in Changhua County, central Taiwan, in 2019. SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images SAM YEH The aim of Project Xuan Ji is to create an electronic countermeasures pod broadly analogous to the U.S.-made AN/ALQ-184, used by tactical aircraft, including F-16s of the ROCAF. The AN/ALQ-184 jams or deceives hostile air defense radars, in the air, on the ground, or at sea, that could be used to track and target the host aircraft. In the past, U.S. Air Force personnel have described the pod as a go/no-go item for a combat mission. Electronic warfare technicians work on an AN/ALQ-184 electronic countermeasures pod at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina. U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Caycee Watson Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Project Xuan Ji is being run by Taiwans state-run National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), which is responsible for the development, manufacture, and support of various weapons systems. After the photos appeared, NCSIST and the ROCAF were approached for comment by the Taiwanese media, but neither was willing to comment on the matter because it involves sensitive national defense information. One comment that officials did provide, to Taiwans United Daily News (UDN), related to the size of the pod, which is understood to be based on a modified 275-gallon fuel tank. In response to concerns that the pod looks too large for external carriage on the F-CK-1s centerline under-fuselage station, an unnamed official told the newspaper that the equipment tested still has room for improvement. The matter of size is important, since the ROCAF previously looked at the possibility of integrating the U.S.-made ALQ-184(V)11 electronic countermeasures pod on the F-CK-1, but abandoned this due to its large dimensions. A close-up of one of the electronic countermeasures pods fitted to a pylon below the right wing. Formosa Aviation & Military Image Press According to Taiwanese reports, the defense ministry has, since 2020, allocated around $135 million in research funding to NCIST for Project Xuan Ji. The project was originally scheduled to conclude in 2023, but has been delayed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It appears that the initial development of the homegrown pod was stymied by U.S. export restrictions on certain key technologies and components, but these have since been overcome. By 2023, the new pod had reportedly been built, but series production couldnt be launched, again due to U.S. restrictions. These led to more delays, although its now claimed that an unidentified U.S. company has stepped in to carry out joint development and speed the path to service entry. As for the C-130, this is judged better suited for the task of testing the pod than an F-CK-1, due to its spacious cabin and stable flight characteristics. The Hercules can also carry additional test equipment as well as a dedicated operator station in the rear cabin, from where the pods performance can be monitored in real time. The C-130 could also benefit from these pods and using similar systems designed for fighters with the C-130 in an operational sense isnt new. The Dutch have equipped their C-130s with wingtip EW pods, for instance. So, Taiwanese C-130s could end up using the pod too, either for self protection or in a EW support role. A head-on view of the ROCAF C-130H test platform. Formosa Aviation & Military Image Press For operational F-CK-1s, which have now been upgraded to F-CK-1C/D standard, the new pod will be a significant development. Until now, these aircraft had relied only on radar warning receivers (RWR) for self-protection. While these alert the pilot to hostile air defense radars, they are not able to jam them. The RWR on the F-CK-1C/D has reportedly also been upgraded, using equipment imported from Italy, likely from the Leonardo company, although its unclear if this has progressed beyond practical studies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Roy Choo, a defense journalist and TWZ contributor, explained: The F-CK-1s lack of an electronic countermeasures system over more than three decades of service underscores the limitations of Taiwans domestic defense industry, as well as the broader challenges imposed by its geopolitical status. It also reflects a concerning lack of urgency within the defense establishment regarding capability development. Until a functional electronic countermeasures system is integrated, the survivability of the F-CK-1 fleet remains highly questionable in any potential conflict with mainland China. A ROCAF pilot taxis his F-CK-1 for takeoff during a scramble as part of a combat readiness exercise at Ching Chuan Kang Air Base in Taichung on Jan. 7, 2025. Photo by I-HWA CHENG / AFP I-HWA CHENG While it remains to be seen whether the pod developed under Project Xuan Ji meets all the ROCAFs requirements and finally enters production and frontline service, its clear that the F-CK-1C/D has added some important new capabilities to better match the threat from the Chinese mainland. In all, 129 aircraft were upgraded. The upgraded F-CK-1C/D aircraft features a more advanced cockpit with three color multifunction displays and a more powerful flight-control computer. The radar is more reliable and has added new operating modes. New weapons include the Wan Chien cruise missile, which carries a submunitions warhead over a distance of more than 125 miles. Currently, a new supersonic anti-ship cruise missile is also being tested, as you can read about here. Once fielded, this will provide the fighter with a powerful new capability to better counter Chinas growing naval might. Taiwans Xiong Zhi Project, variant of air-launched Hsiung Feng III supersonic anti-ship missile, moving to next stage. 2 air-launched HF-3 variants, AX-001/004 test articles, carried by F-CK-1 spotted today (1) appear different from before (2). Source: https://t.co/UDF1UX61zepic.twitter.com/yM2QQKjHU7 Taiwan Military (@TaiwanMilitary) June 19, 2025 Although the F-CK-1C/D fleet is outnumbered by the ROCAFs F-16s, 140 of which are in service, with more on order, the homegrown fighter remains a prized asset. In particular, its valued for its rapid scramble time, which means it can respond to threats more quickly than the F-16 or Mirage 2000. An F-CK-1 is displayed with its armament at Penghu Air Base on Magong Island in the Penghu Islands on Sept. 22, 2020. Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images SAM YEH Meanwhile, with the AN/ALQ-184 now in ROCAF service for more than two decades, Taiwan is also seeking to acquire more advanced airborne electronic warfare systems from the United States. According to local reports, Taiwan expects to receive the L3Harris AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield all-digital electronic warfare suite for its new batch of 66 new-production Block 70 F-16C/Ds, and perhaps also for its upgraded F-16Vs. Taiwans acquisition of new-production Block 70 jets, which will have a configuration similar but not identical to its F-16Vs, is now experiencing delays, as you can read more about here. The U.S. government approved the sale of these advanced F-16s to Taiwan back in 2019. Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen inspects newly commissioned upgraded F-16V fighters at Chiayi Air Base on Nov. 18, 2021. AP Photo/Johnson Lai Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Addressing the self-protection capabilities of the ROCAFs fighter fleet is of particular importance, with fears steadily growing about the potential for a Chinese military intervention against Taiwan sometime before the end of the decade. U.S. military officials have publicly stated they believe the PLA could feel confident in its ability to successfully carry out such an operation by 2027, if not earlier. In recent years, China has made huge investments in electronic warfare across the board, with the PLA now operating dedicated electronic warfare tactical jets and providing others with advanced self-protection EW suites and podded systems. It has also adapted transports with powerful standoff electronic warfare capabilities. Naval assets with increasingly capable electronic warfare suites are also being rapidly fielded by the PLA. There are also land-based systems, as well. All these types of assets and more would be in very close proximity to Taiwan during a major conflict with mainland China. Were such a scenario to play out, the ROCAF would require every possible means of helping to ensure the survival of its fighters against a vastly numerically superior and increasingly technically-advanced adversary. With thanks to Roy Choo for his assistance in preparing this article. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com More than 100 organisations have signed a joint letter calling on Israel to stop the "weaponisation of aid" into Gaza, as "starvation deepens". Humanitarian groups, including Oxfam and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), say they are increasingly being told they are "not authorised" to deliver aid, unless they comply with the stricter Israeli regulations. Groups risk being banned if they "delegitimise" the state of Israel or do not provide detailed information about Palestinian staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel denies there are restrictions on aid and says the rules, introduced in March, ensure relief work is carried out in line with Israel's "national interests". According to the joint letter, most major international non-governmental organisations (NGO) have been unable to deliver a single truck of lifesaving supplies since 2 March. They say Israeli authorities "have rejected requests from dozens of non-governmental organisations to bring in lifesaving goods", citing the new rules. More than 60 requests were denied in July alone. Aid groups' inability to deliver aid has "left hospitals without basic supplies, children, people with disabilities, and older people dying from hunger and preventable illnesses", the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sean Carroll, CEO of American Near East Refugee Aid (Anera), said: "Anera has over $7 million worth of lifesaving supplies ready to enter Gaza including 744 tons of rice, enough for six million meals, blocked in Ashdod just kilometers away". The new guidelines introduced in March update the framework for how aid groups must register to maintain their status within Israel, along with provisions that outline how their applications can be denied or registration revoked. Registration can be rejected if Israeli authorities deem that a group denies the democratic character of Israel or "promotes delegitimisation campaigns" against the country. "Unfortunately, many aid organisations serve as a cover for hostile and sometimes violent activity," Israel's Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli told the Agence France-Presse news agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Organisations that have no connection to hostile or violent activity and no ties to the boycott movement will be granted permission to operate," added Chikli. Bushra Khalidi, Oxfam Policy Lead, said Israel had rejected more than $2.5m (1.8m) of goods from entering Gaza. She added: "This registration process signals to INGOs that their ability to operate may come at the cost of their independence and ability to speak out." The warning comes as Israel steps up its bombardment of Gaza City, in preparation for a plan to take control of the city. Israel says it will provide humanitarian aid to civilian populations "outside the combat zones", but has not specified whether that aid would be delivered by the Israel and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel says the system is necessary to stop Hamas stealing aid, an accusation Hamas denies. The UN this month reported that 859 Palestinians had been killed near GHF sites since May, a figure the GHF denies. In the joint statement, Aitor Zabalgogeazkoa, MSF emergency coordinator in Gaza, said that the "militarised food distribution scheme has weaponised starvation". The secretary-general of MSF, Chris Lockyear, told the BBC that GHF was a "death trap", and the humanitarian situation in Gaza was "hanging on by a thread". Hamas's 2023 attack killed about 1,200 people in Israel, with 251 seized and taken into Gaza as hostages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel's offensive has since killed nearly 62,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. It says that 235 people including 106 children have also died due to starvation and malnutrition. Many others among the more than 5,000 people in D.C. without current permanent shelter said they had heard about President Donald Trump's calls to clear encampments with increased law enforcement and "immediately" move their occupants out of the District. They expressed fear and anxiety over what could happen - and where they might go. At the same time, the White House has doubled down on its rhetoric targeting the city's unsheltered. "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," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters Tuesday. "And if they refuse, they will be susceptible to fines or to jail time." The city's homeless advocates have come out against the Trump administration's law enforcement effort, arguing that increased policing is not a long-term solution. "The removal of our unhoused neighbors from public spaces without offering them stable housing first is not the solution," said Adam Rocap, deputy CEO and chief strategy officer of Miriam's Kitchen, a nonprofit that provides outreach services to people without shelter. "It does not address the real issue: the lack of affordable housing and access to the support services that people need to maintain their homes." "We also want to make D.C. safe and beautiful," Leavitt said Tuesday. "That involves removing mentally disturbed individuals and homeless encampments as well. So we will be using these regulations and code that already exist to clean up our streets. And we've already had great success." According to Leavitt, 70 homeless encampments have been removed from National Park Service land since March. The Park Service did not respond to questions about which encampments were cleared and how many people were removed. It's unclear whether there have been any arrests of unsheltered individuals this week by federal or District officials. During a Twitter Live chat Tuesday evening, Mayor Muriel E. Bowser (D) and other members of the D.C. government said that the city's homeless population has decreased since last year and that the city is reaching out to people still living on the street. "We spend a lot of time and resources trying to get the people who are in encampments into shelter," Bowser said. Many of the dozen or so unsheltered men and women who spoke with The Post this week described a confusing new reality. "Nobody's telling us anything," said Albenny Morales, 46, an unhoused man staying outside the Martin Luther King Jr. library in downtown D.C. "What are they going to do? Arrest us all and put us in mental institutions?" At a breakfast distribution site off North Capitol Street, Frederick Walker, 44, stood nearby and considered the White House's plans. "Shelters get full every night," he said. "They fill up by 7 or 8, and if you're not in, you're on the street. Does that mean you're fair game to get arrested?" On Tuesday morning, a prescheduled cleanup of a homeless encampment in Washington's Foggy Bottom neighborhood went forward as planned, with outreach workers, D.C. police, and Health and Human Services providers convening at the intersection of Virginia Avenue NW and Rock Creek Parkway. Only three residents were living at the site near the Watergate, and they quickly left the area as the cleanup began. City workers fed trash, tarps, tent poles and other items into three city garbage trucks parked in the grassy area. HHS staff on-site declined to comment, as did outreach workers from Miriam's Kitchen. D.C. Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Wayne Turnage said there was "currently shelter space in D.C. for anyone who wants to come inside," adding that there are more than 1,100 beds for single adults across the city's shelter system. But advocates say many of those beds are already spoken for, and some unsheltered individuals do not feel safe in a crowded shelter. "The 1,000 beds the District is talking about are already full," said Jesse Rabinowitz, a spokesperson for the National Homelessness Law Center. "In a traditional shelter, you get priority for the bed if you slept there the previous night." The city's homeless population has decreased over the years. According to the 2025 Point-In-Time count, the annual federally mandated census of people without housing, there were 5,138 unhoused individuals in shelters and sleeping on the streets in 2025, a 9 percent drop from the previous year and a 19 percent drop since 2020, when 6,380 people were without shelter in Washington. Among the District's responses to the issue have been encampment cleanups. The clearings are "triggered when a site presents a security, health, or safety risk, and/or interferes with community use of such places," according to the city's website. A running list of recent and planned encampment clearances maintained by the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services has included at least 50 distinct addresses since February, though many are clustered around a highway overpass connecting Foggy Bottom to Georgetown. The majority of encampments cleared by the District's teams - which include outreach workers, police officers and public works crews - were in Ward 2, which includes the central business district, the White House and Foggy Bottom, and Ward 6, which includes many downtown areas, such as Penn Quarter and Gallery-Place Chinatown. Some encampments have been cleared multiple times in the past six months. District officials have emphasized that during clearings, outreach workers offer connections to shelters, transitional housing and behavioral health services to people they encounter. The schedule lists five more encampments for clearance this month, including a camp along an abandoned rail line in Northeast Washington and a 10-foot stretch of sidewalk on Pennsylvania Avenue SE occupied by a single man and his belongings. The Northeast Washington location, tucked in a thicket of trees, is currently home to about a dozen people. On Tuesday morning, a few residents of the encampment sat in folding chairs in the parking lot of a gas station at the bottom of the embankment. Darrell Hopkins, a 54-year-old lifelong D.C. resident, has camped along the tracks for the past six years. He said a team from the deputy mayor's office stopped by earlier this summer to give notice of plans to clear the encampment; the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services website lists plans to clear the site in late August. "They can't make me leave D.C.," Hopkins said. "I'll just find some other woods." More than 50 local and national groups that advocate for and provide services to the unhoused joined a conference call Monday to brainstorm and coordinate a response to the White House's crackdown. Donald Whitehead, the executive director for the National Coalition for the Homeless, said Tuesday that his group and others are setting up hotlines to allow people to report encampment clearings by federal officers and offer homeless individuals a way to reach out for help, as well as working to find ways to open up emergency shelter beds - in churches and places of worship and in coordination with nonprofits that typically step up to help in cold-weather months when sleeping outside can be deadly. "We have to create a bridge that gets us to the end of this 30-day period," Whitehead said. "Mental health facilities, substance abuse facilities, homeless shelters, they're all full. So we're seeing what we can do to find more space. It's not a sustainable plan, and it doesn't solve homelessness. But we have to do something." Whitehead said plans are still coming together. But advocates say they believe that the stepped-up law enforcement approach to homelessness underway in D.C. could happen elsewhere. "The next 30 days will give us some valuable information as to what might happen in these other cities," Whitehead said. (COMMENT, BELOW) Dallas Angela Harmon and her grandson Leo headed out on a hot day in Dallas, Texas, to a neighborhood store that is run by their church. It's where they keep cool because running Harmon's air conditioner at home is more than she can afford. "It's costly, it's expensive, and I have to juggle to pay it," Harmon told CBS News, disclosing that her daughter sometimes has to assist her in paying her electricity bills. "Many of our community members are very, very low income," said Chris Simmons, Harmon's pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church. "Many of them, if they have added health conditions, may not survive," Simmons said of his congregants who cannot afford air conditioning. "They may not survive." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To pay her utility bills last year, Harmon relied on the federal government's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP, a utility assistance program through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that serves more than six million Americans. But President Trump's budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year would eliminate LIHEAP. In a statement provided to CBS News, a spokesperson for the White House's Office of Management and Budget called LIHEAP "a failed program that is also mired in fraud for example thousands of 'dead' people and hundreds of prisoners have received funding. Further, LIHEAP disproportionally funds states like California, whose Green New Scam policies drive up home energy prices." The White House would leave it to the states to pay for and administer their own utility assistance, the spokesperson added. Andrew Dessler, a professor of atmospheric sciences at Texas A&M University, studies the impact of climate change on consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His research has determined that climate change is increasing the cost of electricity. According to his research, between the summers of 2023 and 2024, climate change increased wholesale electricity costs by an average of 35% in the New England region, 30% in California, 20% in Texas and 17% in New York. And according to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electricity costs rose 5.5% in July compared to one year ago. Dressler said that when temperatures are very hot and demand peaks, the cost of electricity can surge and those extra costs eventually gets passed along to consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You can directly draw the line from humans emitting greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, increases the temperature. That means people have to run their air conditioner more." One bright spot Dessler found was solar power. He said it is the cheapest form of energy and can help push down prices. But he is concerned consumers will be hurt by Trump administration policies that have slashed renewable projects in favor of higher-cost oil and natural gas. "It is going to make things much, much worse," Dressler said. "It's going to be much more expensive." As temperatures rise, energy costs are set to go up with them. "It's on my mind every day," Harmon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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? A judge has granted Market Basket a restraining order against two former executives. The order bars the ex-executives from the New England grocery chain's 90 stores and property. Market Basket's CEO, Arthur T. Demoulas, and the former executives were previously put on leave. Market Basket's long history of company drama has hit a new boiling point. A Massachusetts judge on Thursday sided with the family-owned New England cult favorite grocery chain after it sought a temporary restraining order against two ousted executives, who it says are "lieutenants" for the suspended CEO Arthur T. Demoulas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An order by a Middlesex Superior Court judge now bars Market Basket's former director of operations, Joseph Schmidt, and the chain's former store and grocery director, Tom Gordon, from the company's 90 stores and property. The Demoulas family founded the grocery store chain, which has been engulfed in family disputes and public power struggles for decades. "The effect of the Court's injunction is to put a stop to these individuals' ongoing unlawful behavior and order them to stay away from Market Basket's stores and offices," Market Basket's board director, Steve Collins, told Business Insider in a statement. Collins said that in the past few days alone, Schmidt and Gordon went to at least 23 different Market Basket stores "without authorization" and added that Schmidt used a side entrance to access the chain's corporate headquarters, where he spent time going through the offices of a number of associates." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Court found that Schmidt and Gordon were not believable and that their conduct was harmful to Market Basket," Collins said. Collins said that Market Basket was "concerned" that Schmidt and Gordon who Collins referred to as "lieutenants" of Demoulas "were accessing the Market Basket stores and offices to intimidate our associates and disrupt company operations." "They continued this conduct despite numerous warnings and requests that they stop, which the Court determined were clear and unequivocal directions," Collins said. "This order puts a halt to that unlawful activity." Judge William Barrett wrote in his order that Schmidt and Gordon "were given clear and unambiguous instructions to refrain from entering" Market Basket property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An attorney for Schmidt and Gordon did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Schmidt, however, said that while he was "disappointed with the result," he has "great respect for the judicial system." Market Basket CEO Arthur Demoulas is currently on administrative leave. Joanne Rathe/The Boston Globe via Getty Images Justine Griffin, a spokesperson for Demoulas, said, "We are surprised by this ruling," in a statement to Business Insider. Griffin said Schmidt and Gordon "have dedicated their entire professional careers to Market Basket and have been key to its success and building on its culture." "They have fostered the community of associates that is the Market Basket family," said Griffin. "Since May 28, their integrity has been attacked with a host of false accusations but they have persevered with dignity and integrity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Griffin said that once Schmidt and Gordon were fired in July, "they believed they were able to visit the stores and did so not to threaten and intimidate, but to check on people and provide reassurance that things will be OK." "We will respect this ruling but are saddened that it is built on misconceptions about their intent," the spokesperson said. Market Basket's board placed Demoulas, Schmidt, and Gordon on administrative leave on May 28 over allegations that the CEO had started planning a work stoppage intended to disrupt the company's business and operations. "The Executive Committee believes that Mr. Demoulas and others have taken these steps as improper retaliation for the Board's directives requiring the CEO to work with the Board regarding the most basic corporate oversight and to provide the Board access to key employees," the company said in a statement at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demoulas remains on suspended leave with pay. In court documents, Market Basket's attorneys argued that Schmidt and Gordon had waged a monthslong "campaign of intimidation and defiance," and "falsely suggested" to Market Basket associates that they will get their jobs back through Demoulas. "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," the court papers say. Schmidt and Gordon have argued in court documents that there was no "campaign of fear" and admitted they made visits to Market Basket stores in August to see their former colleagues who "welcomed" them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2014, Demoulas was fired from his CEO role following a family dispute. The firing sparked a widespread workers' protest, and Demoulas was reinstated after he bought the rival family faction's $1.5 billion majority stake in the company. Read the original article on Business Insider Representatives of the Sierra Club and the Piedmont Environmental Alliance went before the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners on Monday to voice their health and safety concerns about the a proposed methane gas pipleline that will cross part of eastern Forsyth County. Jessica Mendez Rowe, the events and partnerships manager of the Piedmont Environmental Alliance, said the proposed route for the Transco Southeast Supply Enhancement Project, or SSEP, by the Williams Companies will cross major highways and residential areas in the Kernersville area. SSEP is proposed to cross several major roadways, including U.S Route 421, North Carolina Highway 66, Interstate 40, and Interstate 74, which may put homes in important areas of Kernersville in what is called the high consequence area zone at great risk should a pipeline incident actually occur, Rowe said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Novant Health Kernersville Medical Center and the nearby Kernersville VA Clinic would be among the places in the high-risk zone. We are very concerned with how close these major medical centers are to the right of way, Rowe said. Caroline Hansley, a campaign organizing strategist with the Sierra Club, said that there already are 18 facilities in the area that are major sources of air pollution, including four fossil fuel-fired power plants and three solid waste disposal sites, and adding the proposed pipeline would worsen air quality. Methane, when extracted from the ground, causes air pollution and water contamination, leading to negative health effects. There are already concerns about air quality in this part of the state, Hansley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rowe urged the commission to protect the rights of landowners and the safety of the community. Our ask of this commission is to protect the rights of our local landowners and the safety of our community. We are asking you to put your support behind the real people that are here and in Forsyth County who are concerned about more methane gas being piped through our neighborhoods, Rowe said. BOSTON (SHNS) The state fund designed to help entrepreneurs from communities disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition saw a major infusion of money over the past year, bringing in more than $29 million in new funding while doling out $26.5 million in grants to 181 businesses. The $26.5 million in awards is over 10 times the amount granted in the fiscal year 2024, the first grant cycle since the Massachusetts Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund was established. The state awarded $2.3 million to 50 recipients in the first grant cycle. An annual legislative report filed last week shows the fund started fiscal 2025 with $27.3 million, then received a $29 million transfer from the Marijuana Regulation Fund in April, along with about $12,000 in donations. By years end, the fund had a $29.6 million uncommitted balance after awarding its largest round of grants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cannabis Social Equity Trust FundDownload Created in 2022, the trust fund is meant to chip away at barriers to entry for smaller cannabis businesses, especially those owned by people of color, women, and individuals impacted by past enforcement policies. But local store owners say the industry remains tilted toward well-capitalized corporate operators who had an early foothold through the states original medical marijuana program. Some mom-and-pop shops are closing, owners say, unable to match the resources of companies with more capital. For them, annual grants from the state fund can be the difference between survival and shutting down. This drastically changed our position and outlook on our business, at least for the next 12 to 24 months, said Edson Charles, CEO of Gas Bus in Middleborough, who received $500,000 in the fiscal 2025 grant cycle, and $50,000 the year before. But it is really an uphill battle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fiscal 2025 program, the second major funding initiative since the funds launch, awarded grants ranging from $17,000 to $500,000. The money can be used for rent, payroll, taxes, construction, professional services, licensing fees and equipment purchases. Recipients must submit documentation for reimbursement and meet reporting requirements. Applications opened last September, drawing 278 submissions from social equity or economic empowerment license holders, as designated by the Cannabis Control Commission. These are businesses owned by racial minorities, women, veterans and LGBTQ+ folks, and others. The state awarded 181 grants, with the largest shares going to businesses in Boston. For Charles, the latest $500,000 award will help refinance the building his business operates in, replacing high-interest loans with a traditional mortgage and cutting monthly payments by more than half. Our biggest challenge right now, as small operators in this market, is dealing with a massive lack of capital or access to capital, he said. That kind of puts us on the back foot with all of our competitors, especially the ones that either have major investments or are large corporations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Price compression in the retail market with wholesale cannabis dropping from about $14 a gram to just over $3 is squeezing smaller operators the most, Charles said. He believes some companies who can afford to operate at slim margins are intentionally keeping prices low to drive out competitors. They doled out $27 million, but one financial operator is about to give a loan to one operator upwards of $30 or $40 million. Theres no way the grant fund can ever keep pace with that, he said. Then all of the social equity businesses are fighting over scraps while a bunch of the larger operators have essentially an unlimited budget. Caroline Pineau, owner of Stem Haverhill, received her first social equity grant this year, also at the maximum $500,000 level. She is using it to upgrade her 1876 building to prepare for a future social consumption license, adding an elevator, new stairwell and a rooftop lounge space. With market compression and the instability of the cannabis market in Massachusetts, this grant will be instrumental in the future success of our single-entity, woman-owned small business, Pineau said. Were seeing mom-and-pop businesses across the commonwealth going out of business every month. Its a really scary time to be a cannabis operator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pineau, one of the states earliest economic empowerment license holders, said the grant helps level the playing field but only somewhat. She is planning a $1.5 million to $2 million renovation, meaning the award will cover only a fraction of the cost. Its really exciting for small businesses like myself, who are doing our best to compete with well-capitalized groups, she said. Charles agreed that while the program is helping, structural issues remain. He said more legislative protections are needed to prevent financial institutions from charging cannabis companies higher costs or refusing service altogether. I had several financial institutions tell me my deal makes sense, it works for them, but they just wont do it, he said, describing a two-year struggle to refinance his property before receiving grant money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cannabis Social Equity Trust Fund was created with the intent of transferring 15% of the states Marijuana Regulation Fund each year to support eligible businesses. That parent fund draws its revenue from the states marijuana excise tax, licensing and application fees, civil penalties and interest. A 2022 state law also allows the trust fund to accept donations from private sources. A public donations portal launched in April, though contributions have so far totaled only about $12,000. The fiscal 2025 grant program was structured into four tiers, providing aid to applicants at different stages: pre-licensed startups, provisional and final license holders in urgent need, operators seeking to begin business, and existing businesses looking to expand. The report shows 113 businesses received the lowest-tier funding of $25,000 each, except Bulrush LLC in Northampton, which received $17,000. That category of pre-licensed startups accounted for $2.79 million in aid. The second tier for provisional and final license holders needing urgent operational support went to six businesses at $50,000 each. Twenty-eight operators seeking to launch their businesses shared $7.25 million in grants, while the highest tier, for existing businesses planning to expand, awarded $15.7 million to 33 companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement About 100 businesses that applied for grant funding received none. Charles said he knows multiple delivery operators who were denied grants this year and have since closed. One guy, as soon as they sent out the letters, he was like, Were out of business. We cant do this anymore,' he said. Some of my customers have already told me that a couple of other operators in our area have gone under. For Pineau, the prospect of ongoing grant rounds over the next five years offers hope. She said her business is prepared to hit the ground running as soon as final regulations for social consumption establishments are approved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next round of funding could prove decisive for businesses fighting to hold their place in a volatile market. Its been a great help to my business, personally, Charles said. But the task is very daunting. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Eric Moyer is running against Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Flood. (Courtesy of Alyson Edie Photography) LINCOLN The Nebraska Democrats have their man in eastern Nebraskas 1st Congressional District: Eric Moyer is running against Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Flood. The bid by Moyer, who works in the renewable energy industry, comes shortly after Floods town hall in Lincoln, which drew national headlines and attention on social media for Democratic frustration with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moyer said he is running because the district isnt getting adequate representation. He is formally announcing his bid Thursday evening in Lincoln. I think folks are hungry for an alternative to the status quo, Moyer told the Examiner. Economic focus Moyer is running as an outsider, on a platform that focuses on building an economy that works for all Nebraskans, pushing back against trickle-down economics, advocating for affordable healthcare as a right and exploring alternative energy sources. Nebraska U.S. Rep Mike Flood, R-Neb., durring his town hall in Lincoln on Aug 4, 2025. (Juan Salinas II/Nebraska Examiner) The 1st District comprises 12 Nebraska counties, including Lancaster County, home to Lincoln, the states second-most populous. But Lincolns heavily Democratic area is drowned out by more conservative rural and suburban regions, including Floods home turf of northeast Nebraska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The seat is considered safely Republican by the nonpartisan Center for Politics, The Cook Political Report and Inside Elections. Flood has won his past two elections by 20 and 16 percentage points. But Moyer said he is confident that he has a path to victory. Nebraska is a challenging state to develop renewable energy projects. Ive been doing it for eight years, Moyer said. Dont tell me I cant do something. Secret Sauce Moyer wont reveal the secret sauce of campaign strategy he plans to use, but points to the current political climate surrounding President Donald Trumps budget and tax bill that passed earlier this summer, the one the president calls big and beautiful. Republicans in Congress are currently trying to sell Trumps domestic agenda to constituents, which polling indicates is unpopular among Americans. Flood faced jeers as he defended voting for the Trump mega bill, which may have helped his standing with Republicans. Moyer called Floods vote tone deaf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes doubled down on policies that do not meet the expectations of voters, Moyer said. By voting against the interests of the people of this district, its pretty doggone clear that he is not representing the needs of the folks in Lancaster County or the other 11, for that matter. Trumps performance will likely be a main focus of the 2026 midterms. State and national Republican strategists said focusing on specific provisions could help improve the publics perception of the law, as they bank on the idea that long-term messaging about the bill could turn around public perception. Nebraska can lead the way, Moyer said. We have the ability to do so much more as a state and have so much more of a voice in national politics, and I hope to give us that. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna is convinced that only strong pressure can force Russia to agree to an immediate ceasefire. Source: Tsahkna on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: Tsahkna noted that instead of seeking peace, Russia launched a record number of bombs, missiles and drones on Ukraine, hitting Ukrainian cities and causing record casualties among the civilian population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Firm pressure is the only way to make Russia accept an immediate and unconditional ceasefire & to begin building a just & lasting peace in Europe," he said. Background: US President Donald Trump promised very severe consequences for Russia if Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin does not agree to end the war in Ukraine during their meeting on 15 August. Trump also stated that if his meeting with Putin in Alaska is successful, he will arrange a second meeting that Zelenskyy will be invited to attend. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Oklahoma Ethics Commission voted to allow legislators to use campaign money to cover personal security costs, a move that was prompted by the killing of a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband in their home. The four commissioners unanimously voted to approve the proposal Thursday, Aug. 14. Campaign funds can cover "reasonable expenses for safety and security," such as security camera systems, motion detectors, cybersecurity software and monitoring services. Candidates cannot use campaign money to hire a security guard or security detail, purchase weapons or install complex, high-end equipment. Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton and House Speaker Kyle Hilbert as well as House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson and Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt brought the issue to the commission's attention through a letter July 11. They asked the commission to determine whether it was ethical to spend campaign funds on security expenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The tragic assassination of state Rep. Melissa Hortman by shooting at her home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, last month has emphasized to me the need to evaluate what can be done to prevent such an awful event from occurring in Oklahoma," the lawmakers said in their letter. The Oklahoma Ethics Commission discusses allowing legislators to use campaign money for security measures. Hortman, her husband Mark and their golden retriever were killed in the shooting. Vance Luther Boelter, 57, was arrested and charged in relation to the shooting. Prosecutors say Boelter disguised himself as a law enforcement officer and also shot and wounded Minnesota Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Violence toward politicians has impacted officials across the political spectrum. President Donald Trump was shot in the ear during a 2024 campaign rally, and in April 2025, Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro's home was set on fire while he and his family were asleep. A part of the discussion Thursday revolved around whether it was ethical for legislators to spend campaign money on hiring personal security guards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of the public comment, Kell Kelly said through a written public comment that he thinks lawmakers should be able to use campaign money to pay for security guards. Hilbert hired Kelly as his chief of staff in February. Vice Chair Commissioner Adam Weintraub said he did not see a reason why legislators would need a security detail outside of protection from law enforcement, which is provided at the Capitol and at some other public events. Previous Coverage: Can campaign funds be used for private security? OK leaders ask for clarification after Minnesota deaths Commission Executive Director Lee Ann Bruce Boone said that approving lawmakers to use campaign money for security guards would need to be approved by the Legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a joint statement issued with other legislative leaders after the commission vote, Paxton said the ruling provides lawmakers "a clear, ethical pathway to address credible threats that arise solely because they hold public office." "Its a commonsense step that will allow us to serve the people of Oklahoma without compromising our safety and security, said Paxton, a Republican from Tuttle. Hilbert, a Republican from Bristow, said the ruling helps lawmakers and ensures campaign finance transparency. "No candidate or official should fear for their life when serving the public," Hilbert said in the joint statement. Kirt and Munson, both Democrats from Oklahoma City, also expressed support for the commission's ruling. They noted how the assassinations in Minnesota pushed the issue of legislator safety to the forefront. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Violence should never be part of our democratic process, but what happened in Minnesota this summer reminded us all that public service can come with risk to elected officials and their loved ones," Kirt said. Munson added: When we are unencumbered by threats made to our personal security, we can ensure a better, more prosperous future for everyone. After Thursday's vote, an advocacy group dedicated to increasing the number of mothers in politics called on the Ethics Commission to expand its ruling to cover not only current officeholders but also candidates running for public office. "Until political candidates are also kept safe, our democracy will remain vulnerable," Liuba Grechen Shirley, CEO of the Vote Mama Foundation, said in a statement. (This story was updated to add new information.) This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma lawmakers will be able to use campaign money for security Members of the Oklahoma Ethics Commission discuss allowing state officeholders to use campaign funds for security at a meeting Thursday at the state Capitol. (Photo by Emma Murphy/Oklahoma Voice) OKLAHOMA CITY The Oklahoma Ethics Commission on Thursday voted unanimously to allow state officeholders to use campaign funds for security. The board voted to permit Oklahoma officials to use the funds to pay for security if there is a threat posed to the individual as a direct result of holding office. Any expenses must pass a personal use test, meaning the cost would not have been incurred if the individual was not in office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officeholder must need security to respond to dangers or threats related to the office held, and not simply for security that any member of the public would need, according to the opinion. Further, the dangers or threats are related not just to any elected office within the State of Oklahoma, but the office held by that elected official. The approval comes as a bipartisan group of state House and Senate legislative leaders requested increased spending flexibility following the June assassination of a top Minnesota lawmaker and her spouse. Lee Anne Bruce Boone, executive director of the Ethics Commission, said any further clarifications will require a rule change, which requires legislative approval. The nature of an advisory opinion is really to clarify the rules, Bruce Boone said. Thats why you ask for an advisory opinion. And we think this clarification is certainly appropriate. But to get more specific, thats really more of a rule change itself. So we may need to consider some additional rules that would be related to this as we consider a rules package for the next legislative session, to give a little more specificity than what can be given in advisory opinion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Administrative rules have the force of law and are designed to build upon the statutes legislators create. The Federal Election Commission previously issued guidance which allows campaign funds to be used to pay for certain security devices and services to address ongoing dangers and threats. Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, R-Tuttle, House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow, Senate Minority Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City and House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, jointly requested the advisory opinion and issued a statement Thursday applauding the Commissions action. Public service should never mean putting your safety at unnecessary risk, Paxton said. This ruling gives elected officials a clear, ethical pathway to address credible threats that arise solely because they hold public office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hilbert said this decision sends a clear message and strikes the right balance between the safety of public servants and ensuring accountability of campaign fund use. Violence should never be part of the democratic process, Kirt said, but the events in Minnesota reminded elected officials of the risks of public service. Tragic events this past year have left many lawmakers fearful for their safety, Munson said. All public servants should have the support they need in order to best serve their communities. Lawmakers and elected officials around the country have been on edge and weighing the cost of holding public office after Melissa Hortman, a member of the Minnesota DemocraticFarmerLabor Party and House Speaker Emerita, and her husband Mark Hortman were shot and killed in their home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vance Boelter, 57, is accused of posing as a police officer to gain entry to the couples home and shooting them. Hes also accused of shooting another state lawmaker Rep. John Hoffman and his spouse. Hoffman and his wife are recovering. Boelter faces federal and state charges for murder and stalking, some of which carry the potential for the death penalty. He allegedly had a list of other targets. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Deputy Chief Spokesperson for the European Commission Arianna Podesta said on Thursday 14 August that the European Union does not intend to lift or weaken the sanctions imposed on Russia but is instead preparing a new, 19th package of sanctions, which could be adopted as early as September 2025. Source: European Pravda, citing Arianna Podesta Quote: "Let me be very clear. Europe will maintain pressure on Russia.... As I just said, we have already adopted 18 sanction packages and we're working on the 19th." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Podesta noted that the European Union is not currently discussing lifting sanctions against Russia but rather plans to increase sanctions pressure on Russia. She expressed hope that the EU will be able to adopt the 19th package of sanctions against Russia as early as next month, i.e. in September. "We know sanctions are working and we will maintain pressure on Russia. Russia. All other are pure speculation. This is a reality. Europe continues to maintain full pressure on Russia," Arianna Podesta emphasised. Two European officials and diplomats from four countries working in Brussels and familiar with the processes surrounding the introduction and implementation of EU sanctions against Russia, with whom a correspondent for European Pravda spoke, also stated that there are currently no discussions about weakening or lifting sanctions, even at the technical level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This issue is not on the agenda at the moment. On the contrary, work is continuing to increase the pressure of sanctions on Russia and its economy in order to reduce its ability to wage war against Ukraine. A new, 19th package of sanctions is being discussed," confirmed one of European Pravda sources. Background: Earlier, Western media reported that Ukraine's allies were allegedly already considering easing sanctions against Russia in the event of a truce. The US also says that Trump will raise the issue of sanctions during his meeting with Putin: sanctions against Russia "may be tightened, eased or may have a time limit". Trump and Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on 15 August. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The European Union supports US President Donald Trump's statement about the country's readiness to join security guarantees for Ukraine after peace is established, said Arianna Podesta, deputy chief spokesperson for the European Commission. Source: European Pravda correspondent Details: The EU welcomes the US agreement to join security guarantees for Ukraine, along with other allies. "This is something we welcome... An important aspect is that the US has stated that it is ready to do so," Podesta said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that the European Commission "very much welcomes all efforts that will enable Ukraine to be in a strong position to defend itself". "This is indeed one of the positive outcomes of the meeting," the European Commission spokeswoman stressed. Background: As reported by European Pravda, French President Emmanuel Macron, after a joint conversation with US President Donald Trump on 13 August, said that the US unlike NATO would join in providing security guarantees to Ukraine, and Trump himself had confirmed this. European Council President Antonio Costa also said that Trump spoke about a truce, Ukraine's involvement and security guarantees. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Donald Trump's push to redraw the congressional map has fueled a redistricting arms race, with blue and red states rushing to counter each other. But it's an uneven fight. Republicans appear to hold the advantage in the nationwide scramble, according to strategists and nonpartisan analysts, with more opportunities to shift the lines in their favor ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democrats have vowed to "fight fire with fire" since the GOP moved to add five red seats in Texas, but they face many barriers. Republicans are eyeing ways to add a dozen or more red House districts across Texas, Florida, Missouri, Ohio and Indiana, despite some legal hurdles and reservations from local Republicans. Democrats are looking to retaliate with five more blue seats in California, and they are exploring other options, including in Maryland and Illinois. They control fewer states than Republicans, however, and they have already maximized their power in others. In some cases, they would have to work around independent commissions set up to prevent gerrymandering. "The Republicans are pretty likely to come out ahead - it's just a question of how much they come out ahead," said Kyle Kondik, an elections analyst for the nonpartisan site Sabato's Crystal Ball. Democrats say they are determined to blunt Trump's push for more red seats, even if they cannot stop it. As Republicans defend a 219-212 House majority with four vacancies, even small shifts in the map could tip control of Congress in 2026. "It's sort of irrelevant how lopsided you think the battle is going to be - you've got to get your play in," said Maryland House Majority Leader David Moon (D), who is working on legislation that would redraw his blue state's congressional map if others go ahead with mid-decade redistricting. "I don't see that we've got any choice." States normally draw new congressional districts once a decade, after each census, but Texas moved to change the lines ahead of schedule, eliciting outrage from Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to stall the plan. Now other states are looking to follow suit. Nationwide, slightly more House seats are considered Republican or Republican-leaning (211) than Democratic or Democratic-leaning (206) heading into 2026, according to the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. The latest round of redistricting would probably boost Republicans further, analysts said, as they try to withstand a potential blue wave. California is Democrats' best bet to create new blue seats, though strategists acknowledge it could be a heavy lift. Democratic leaders there are working on a ballot measure that would ask voters in the fall to temporarily redraw the congressional map in Democrats' favor if the GOP moves ahead in Texas - overriding the independent state commission meant to keep the lines nonpartisan. "The question right now is, 'Exactly how ticked off are California voters?'" said Justin Levitt, a California-based law professor and expert on redistricting. Democratic leaders in New York also have said they would redraw their map in response to Texas. Legislators want to change the state constitution to circumvent an independent redistricting body. But that process would not be complete until after the 2026 elections. Democratic strategists said they view Maryland, Illinois and Oregon as the next most plausible places where they could attempt to create new blue seats. The congressional delegations from those states are already heavily Democratic, however, leaving limited room for gains. Maryland and Oregon have one red House seat apiece, while Illinois has three - a result of an already gerrymandered map. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York) has floated other states, too, and said recently on ABC News that "it's important for us to respond coast to coast." David Daley, a senior fellow at the anti-gerrymandering group FairVote and an author of books on redistricting and voting rights, said Republicans and Democrats have both drawn maps to their advantage - and now Democrats have fewer opportunities left. "Democrats and Republicans have each been fighting the gerrymandering wars this decade," he said. "Democrats simply ran out of ammo first." Republicans, meanwhile, are hopeful that they can carve out a couple more red seats in Ohio - which was already slated to redraw its lines this year - and another in Missouri, where GOP operatives say action is likely this year. They have also discussed creating at least two or three more red seats in Florida, where the GOP House leader last week moved to create a redistricting committee. Both Florida and Ohio have language in their state constitutions saying that - in at least some circumstances - districts should not be drawn to favor one political party, and gerrymanders would probably spur court challenges. But Florida's Supreme Court, which is filled with Republican appointees, recently rejected a challenge to the current maps based on the state constitution's "Fair Districts" rules. One Republican strategist close to the redistricting process, who like some others spoke on the condition of anonymity to share internal thinking, noted that the makeup of Ohio's court has shifted since its past rulings rejecting maps for violating the state constitution. Republicans expanded their majority on the court in last year's elections. In 2022, Ohio used a map the court had rejected. "There is no scenario where we don't have more seats to go get than they do," the Republican strategist said of the GOP's redistricting position nationwide compared with that of Democrats. "No doubt about it." Democrats are hoping that reluctant state-level Republicans will ultimately decline to go through with redistricting in some places where it is under consideration - and that courts will block some changes. "We need to see courts in these states that will uphold the law and uphold the state constitutions, and the question is whether we get that - [or] if we get ideological decisions from state courts that disregard the state constitution or bend the knee to Donald Trump," said Marina Jenkins, executive director of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. Vice President JD Vance visited Indiana last week to discuss redrawing its congressional map, which could net Republicans one more seat. But many GOP state lawmakers are hesitant, and Republicans familiar with the redistricting push said it is unclear what will happen there. In New Hampshire - another state where the GOP could make gains - the Republican governor has expressed reluctance. "The timing is off for this, because we are literally in the middle of the census period," Gov. Kelly Ayotte told local news station WMUR. "And when I talk to people in New Hampshire it's not on the top of their priority list." (COMMENT, BELOW) The European Union has sent two firefighting planes to Spain to help battle raging wildfires, after the country activated the bloc's disaster assistance mechanism for the first time. The assistance comes as the country recorded a third wildfire-related death on Thursday morning. There are concerns the wildfires could continue to spread. Spain's state weather agency Aemet forecasts that a heatwave will continue until Monday, with temperatures of up to 44C in some areas, as well as moderate winds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spain is the fifth European nation to request assistance with fighting wildfires. In Greece, 25,000 acres of land have burned since Tuesday. [BBC] Two French Canadair water bomber aircraft arrived in Spain's north-western Galicia region on Thursday. "The fight against fires knows no borders," government representative in the region Pedro Blanco said. "French resources are now in Spain to intensify efforts to extinguish forest fires." Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska told local media on Wednesday that the two planes were not yet needed, but that the government wanted them in Spain so they could be put to use when necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He told broadcaster Cadena SER that he had not ruled out requesting more firefighters. A volunteer firefighter died in hospital in the north-western region of Leon on Thursday, after suffering severe burns. He became the second volunteer to die as a result of a fire in the region and the third person to die in total. Another man died near the capital, Madrid, last Tuesday. "We are struck once again by the death of a second volunteer who has lost their life in Leon," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Thursday. "All our love and support go out to their family and friends during this unbearable time." Wildfires have consumed more than 157,000 hectares in Spain so far this year [Reuters] Spain's Civil Guard said it had arrested two men on suspicion of starting fires in Castille and Leon that had spread across thousands of hectares - taking the number of arson arrests to 10 since the start of June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While weather conditions are currently favourable for wildfires, they can be sparked by barbecues, cigarette stubs or discarded bottles. Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes across the country, with 700 told to leave their towns in the south-western province of Caceres on Wednesday. Wildfires are a common occurrence across southern Europe in the summer, but their severity can often be exacerbated by heatwave conditions. EU data shows that around 629,000 hectares (1.6 million acres) of land has burnt across the bloc since the beginning of the year, with wildfires in Spain comprising around a quarter of that total. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While linking climate change with individual extreme weather events can be difficult, scientists say that climate change is generally making heatwaves hotter, longer and more frequent. Prolonged hot conditions can dry out the ground and vegetation, making it easier for wildfires to spread rapidly. Dangerous wildfires have broken out in areas of Greece such as Achaia (pictured) and the island of Chios [Reuters] Greece, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Albania have also activated the EU's civil protection mechanism, which allows any country hit by a disaster - both in Europe and beyond - to request emergency assistance. In Greece, wildfires have been burning for a third consecutive day, with the most dangerous fronts on the island of Chios and in the Achaia region of the Peloponnese. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, 95 people - including both firefighters and civilians - have been injured. EU data shows that more than 10,000 hectares (25,000 acres) have burned across the country since Tuesday morning. Authorities have issued a red alert for Thursday, warning of very high fire risk in Attica, eastern Central Greece, Evia, the north-eastern Peloponnese, and Thrace. In Chios, the fire's front stretched for dozens of kilometres, and with limited resources available, many residents have had to be evacuated by sea using coastguard and private vessels. Authorities said three men had been arrested for a fire near the port city of Patras, which began earlier this week and pockets of whcih continue to burn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fires have also raged in Albania and Turkey, with several firefighters injured while tackling the blazes. Additional reporting by Nikos Papanikolaou in Greece VILNIUS, Lithuania (AP) The European Union on Thursday called on China to revoke sanctions imposed on two Lithuanian banks, arguing there is no justification for them. Beijing announced the measures this week against Urbo Bank and Mano Bank in retaliation for EU penalties on two Chinese lenders. The Lithuanian banks do not operate in China, giving Beijings move a largely symbolic character. Nonetheless, the tit-for-tat measures underscore deepening tensions between the EU and China over Beijing's support for Russia in its war on Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this case, China targeted banks from an EU member with whom diplomatic ties have been particularly strained due to Lithuania's relationship with Taiwan. At EU headquarters in Brussels, European Commission spokesperson Olof Gill defended the blocs sanctions on Chinese banks. China must respect the problems we have identified, Gill said. Our sanctions are the centerpiece of our efforts to minimize the effectiveness of the Russian war machine. He said the Commission does not believe that the Chinese countermeasures have any justification or are evidence based, and therefore we call on China to remove them even now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The EUs latest Russia sanctions package, adopted in July and effective August 9, included Heihe Rural Commercial Bank and Heilongjiang Suifenhe Rural Commercial Bank. The bloc accused them of providing crypto-asset services that help Moscow evade restrictions. In explaining its sanctions on the Lithuanian banks, the Chinese Ministry said the EU sanctions on Chinese firms had "a serious negative impact on China-EU economic and trade relations and financial cooperation. The banks and the government in Lithuania said the sanctions were not expected but would likely have little practical impact. According to the preliminary assessment, this decision will not have a significant impact on either the countrys financial system or the activities of the banks themselves, since the business models of the mentioned banks are focused on the local market, the Bank of Lithuania said on Wednesday in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Marius Arlauskas, the head of administration of Urbo Bank, said: Since we do not have any business partnerships with Chinese individuals or legal entities, the sanctions will have no impact on the activities of Urbo Bank and the implementation of prudential regulations." The Baltic nation has drawn Chinas ire for years. Beijing expelled Lithuanias ambassador in 2021 in response to Lithuania allowing Taiwan to open a liaison office in Vilnius, the Lithuanian capital. China regards Taiwan as a breakaway province and prohibits other countries from having formal ties with Taipei. Taiwan has long sought closer relations with the Baltic states, citing their past experiences under authoritarian rule and embrace of multiparty democracy and liberal values. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024 Lithuania expelled Chinese diplomats after a Chinese ship came under suspicion during an investigation into the severing of two undersea data cables. One runs under the Baltic Sea between Lithuania and Sweden. ___ McNeil reported from Brussels. BRUSSELS (Reuters) -European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Thursday that an Israeli settlement plan is not in line with international law, and she called on Israeli authorities not to move ahead with it. Israel's far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, has announced that work would start on a long-delayed settlement that would divide the West Bank and cut it off from East Jerusalem. "The decision of Israeli authorities to advance the E1 settlement plan further undermines the two-state solution while being a breach of international law," Kallas said in a statement. "The EU reiterates its call on Israel to halt settlement construction," she added. (Reporting by Lili Bayer; Editing by Leslie Adler) The Brief Evacuation levels have been reduced for residents living west of Rainier after a brush fire broke out on Wednesday. People who evacuated between Rainier Road, 138th Avenue and Military Road are allowed to return home at their own discretion. The wildfire was last estimated at 26 acres. RAINIER, Wash. - Evacuation levels have been reduced for residents living near Rainier, Washington after a brush fire broke out on Wednesday. What we know Level 2 Evacuations (Get Ready) are in place for the area between 138th Avenue Southeast, Military Road Southeast and 133rd Avenue Southeast. The area was originally under Level 3 Evacuations, but residents are now allowed to return home at their own discretion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Level 1 Evacuations (Be Alert) are in effect for the area northeast of the Level 2 Evacuation zone, south of 128th Avenue Southeast to 138th Avenue, and east of Military Road to Rainier Acres Road Southeast. Officials said the fire was last estimated at 26 acres. It started around 3:30 p.m. The evacuation shelter at Tenino High School closed at 9 p.m. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Dig deeper There are several other active wildfires burning around Washington state, and FOX 13 is tracking the latest updates on evacuations and containment. The Source Information in this story came from Thurston County Emergency Management and the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. MORE NEWS FROM FOX 13 SEATTLE 3 Seattle-area sandwich shops make Yelp's Top 100 list Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 'Its a zoo': Frustrations grow over Seattle's new bus-only lanes Seattle's 'paddle rave' new summer hit on Lake Union 'Presence, not activity': New tool helps track ICE agents across U.S. Art mural defaced for second time in Seattle's Chinatown-International District To get the best local news, weather and sports in Seattle for free, sign up for the daily FOX Seattle Newsletter. Download the free FOX LOCAL app for mobile in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store for live Seattle news, top stories, weather updates and more local and national news. A 15-year-old Cottonwood male has been convicted of plotting to bomb Evergreen Middle School and was sentenced to up to seven years in a secure youth treatment facility for juveniles convicted of serious offenses. His alleged co-conspirator, a 14-year-old Cottonwood boy, was in Tehama County Juvenile court on Tuesday afternoon, reported the Tehama County District Attorneys office. Charged with multiple felonies in connection with the incident, the juvenile remains in custody. According to the DAs office, Judge Laura Woods, who presided over the contested jurisdictional hearing, imposed a sentence of four years in a security youth treatment facility with a maximum time of confinement of up to seven years on the 15-year-old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The15-year-old was found guilty in Tehama County Juvenile Court of three felony charges attempted first degree murder in that the attempted murder was willful, deliberate and premeditated; possession of materials with the intent to construct a destructive device; and possession of a destructive device, reported the Tehama County District Attorneys Office. Tehama County District Attorney Matt Rogers explained, juveniles who are too young to be tried as adults, as in this case, may be incarcerated in a Secure Youth Treatment Facility, which is equivalent to a prison sentence served in juvenile hall. Per state law, the maximum time of confinement for a juvenile convicted of attempted murder is five years, with the shortest term being three years. Put simply, the minor may be incarcerated for up to seven years depending on his level of cooperation and rehabilitation in Secure Youth Treatment, Rogers said. The minor will return to court every six months in order to evaluate his progress in Secure Youth Treatment. We are relieved that the minor was sentenced to a lengthy term. The sentence ensures the safety of the public and we hope that the public can breathe a little easier knowing that this minor will be locked up for a substantial amount of time. According to the District Attorneys Office, the 15-year-old and 14-year-old boys co-conspired in planning the attack on Evergreen Middle School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the potential attack on the school was averted thanks to an online gamer from Tennessee who alerted law enforcement of the planned attack after one of the teen suspects he was playing online games with allegedly discussed the school attack, sharing a manifesto and sending photos mimicking the Columbine shooters. Detectives from the Tehama County Major Crimes Unit were called in and took over the investigation. On May 11, investigators served a series of search warrants on the suspects homes off of Bowman Road and Lake California areas. Investigators found evidence to substantiate the claims made by the reporting party. After the suspects were arrested they were booked into the Tehama County Juvenile Justice Center on suspicion of making criminal threats, possession of a destructive device, manufacturing a destructive device and conspiracy to commit a felony. During the investigation, Tehama County Sheriff Dave Kain said the juveniles had built and tested two improvised explosive devices in preparation to use in the attack on the school. He said the suspects were hopeful to amass a casualty count of over 100 individuals. He also revealed it was determined during the investigation the pair of suspects intended to murder one of their sets of parents before engaging in the school attack. MADISON Gov. Tony Evers this week implemented pay raises for state employees, giving workers a 3% bump starting in September. The bipartisan 2025-27 budget, signed July 3, authorized a 3% pay increase for state employees in 2025 and a 2% increase in 2026. According to a message from Evers to state workers, all eligible workers in pay status as of June 29 will receive the 3% raise, reflected on Sept. 4 paychecks including lump sum back pay from June 29. While work on the state's compensation plan continues, Evers said in a message to state employees, "it was important to me that state workers received this wage adjustment as soon as possible." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Wisconsin Supreme Court blocks Legislature's anonymous objections to land purchases "The work that we do together every day on behalf of the people of Wisconsin is so important perhaps never more so than it is today. With Washington creating continued uncertainty through devastating cuts to investments and programs that so many across our state rely on, Wisconsinites will continue looking to us to lead, support them, and build upon the work weve done together over the last six years," Evers wrote. Typically, a pay adjustment for state employees authorized in the budget would then require another approval by the Legislature's Joint Committee on Employment Relation in order to be disbursed. In this case, Evers did not go through the committee. An Aug. 7 memo from the state Division of Personnel Management noticing the pay increases cites a state Supreme Court ruling handed down last year that the governor does not need approval to spend apportioned funding. Spokespeople for the Republican co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Employment Relations did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move is one of the largest made by Evers under that ruling, which said the Legislature is not able to outright block funding for projects proposed under the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program. In the 6-1 ruling, the justices said the Republican-controlled Legislature had used its veto power to unconstitutionally impede the Evers administration's power to execute the law, and therefore violated the separation of powers. Stewardship projects were blocked by the state's powerful Joint Finance Committee, and no public meetings were held to inform applicants why their funding was denied. Members of the finance committee were able to anonymously object to any projects, then refuse to add the objections to the agenda for months or years, making it impossible to parse out what the issues were. More: DNR approves 12 stewardship projects without the OK of the Legislature Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evers first exercised his ability to approve projects in October 2024, by approving and funding 12 stewardship requests without input from the Legislature. The authorization funded $7.7 million in projects, including a boat launch in Ashland and several other recreational plans throughout the state. Laura Schulte can be reached at leschulte@jrn.com and on X @SchulteLaura. Jessie Opoien can be reached at jessie.opoien@jrn.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Evers authorizes 3% pay raise for state employees Gov. Tony Evers said Thursday he wants federal recovery officials to act quickly to provide aid to areas of southeastern Wisconsin damaged by flood waters in recent days. As Evers toured flooded homes in the McGovern Park neighborhood on Aug. 14, he told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel he hasn't yet heard from FEMA directly but hopes the agency makes a timely decision on how to help the state. Evers formally requested FEMA assistance on Aug. 13. "FEMA is going to come here and do an appraisal, but we also want to make sure they don't take their time, because we have people here that have lost their life, and they need help, he said. "Our goal is to get the president to make that decision ASAP." As residents on N. 54th St. hauled their furniture, clothes and memories to the curb, Evers said Milwaukee's resilience is "unbelievable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked whether he's concerned politics could enter President Donald Trump's decision-making about sending aid, Evers said he "better not."At one point, Trump suggested his partisan differences with California Gov. Gavin Newsom could affect his decision to deliver aid following deadly wildfires in the state. No such feud exists with Evers, and Trump has said he values Wisconsin, a state he won in 2016 and 2024 elections. "There are plenty of people in Milwaukee who voted for him, so that would be a mistake," Evers said. Milwaukee County is conducting ongoing damage assessments by sending personnel to each municipality and compiling reports from residents. Once the process is completed, the data is sent to FEMA and the agency decides whether to send aid. Gov. Tony Evers visited a home on N. 54th Street discussing flood damage with residents on Aug. 14. Sophia Tiedge County Executive David Crowley, Mayor Cavalier Johnson and members of the Wisconsin State Legislature have all called for FEMA support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a separate event in the Milwaukee area on Aug. 14, Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, a Democratic candidate for governor, praised the efforts of Evers, Crowley and Johnson to get help noting the state of emergency declaration and the request for federal assistance. "Getting additional resources into the communities as quickly as possible I know is a priority," she said in an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Mary Spicuzza of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel contributed to this report. Sophia Tiedge can be reached at stiedge@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Evers hoping for timely FEMA aid following historic flooding WASHINGTON Staff are censoring content they fear could upset President Donald Trump. Volunteers are angry and mulling quitting, even as they work for free. Employees are repeatedly warned not to talk to the press. And the message from on high is that if you care about the Smithsonian Institution and its 17 museums in Washington, D.C., and if you care about your colleagues keeping their jobs or keeping your own, youll keep your mouth shut about the chilling effects of Trumps efforts to erase art and rewrite American history in the ways that he wants. Related: Hunter Biden's Response To Melania Trump's Apology Demand Rhymes With 'Duck Fat' This is how some Smithsonian workers describe their jobs lately, the result of an escalating push by Trump and the White House to control the Smithsonian, a nearly 180-year-old collection of free museums at the center of many tourists trips to the nations capital. Paranoia jumped on Tuesday, when White House officials laid out detailed plans for carrying out Trumps wishes to eliminate exhibits featuring improper ideology. Related: Donald Trump Reveals What He Told Melania After Hunter Bidens Epstein Relationship Comments If the Smithsonian doesnt go along with the White House-directed censorship, which Trump claims is necessary to stop the ideological indoctrination or divisive narratives that distort our shared history, the president is threatening to cut the Smithsonians federal funding, which accounts for about two-thirds of its annual revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But his definition of divisive narratives seems to be anything related to gender or race, and his mandate has left Smithsonian workers with two terrible options: censor exhibits to Trumps liking to keep your job and ensure your museum keeps getting federal money, or hold firm in defending history and artistic freedom knowing you could lose your job and trigger major funding cuts to a museum you care about. Everyone is so scared, said one longtime Smithsonian worker who requested anonymity to protect their job. Its an impossible position to put us in, they said. We cant be political with our content, but they have politicized everything. We need to prove were not partisan by following this very partisan directive. What are we supposed to do? Its like up is down. Its maddening. Trump officials are promising on-site visits to museums and requesting materials relating to exhibits text, wall presentations, websites, education materials, and digital and social media in eight museums to ensure they all reflect uplifting and inclusive portrayals of Americas heritage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, reads a Tuesday letter from Office of Management and Budget director Russ Vought to Lonnie Bunch, the chief of the Smithsonian Institution. Related: The Very Real Possibility That Trump Could Try To Destroy Womens Voting Rights Smithsonian leadership is telling employees not to put any substantive communications in writing, per one staffer, for fear of repercussions. Instead, work plans are communicated verbally, and email is reserved for benign, institution-wide messages from Bunch that are expected to be leaked to the press. Smithsonian volunteers and employees who spoke to HuffPost on condition of anonymity said Bunch is loved and respected by many. And one of the reasons people are reluctant to push back on Trumps revision of museum exhibits is because they want him to keep his job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the strategy that Smithsonian leadership seems to have adopted for preserving at least some of the institutions artistic integrity keep your head down, placate the White House and ride out this storm hasnt yielded much success. The National Portrait Gallery, for one, just lost a show by an artist who refused to remove a painting of a transgender woman to appease Trump. The National Museum of American History last month drew condemnation for removing references to Trumps impeachments from a display about impeached presidents, though it put them back weeks later. The National Museum of African American History and Culture came under fire in April for returning civil rights-related artifacts to owners who had not requested them back. Theyre trying to erase history before our very eyes, Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) said Tuesday on social media, in response to the White Houses list of demands to Bunch. Asked for comment, a Smithsonian Institution spokesperson said only that leadership is proud of its work and its staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Smithsonians work is grounded in a deep commitment to scholarly excellence, rigorous research, and accurate, factual presentation of history, and we are proud of our hardworking staff who work to carry out that mission every day, said the spokesperson. Later Thursday, Trump defended his efforts to censor Smithsonian exhibits. We want the museums to treat our country fairly, he said in brief remarks in the Oval Office. We want the museums to talk about the history of our country in a fair manner, not in a woke manner, or in a racist manner, which is what many of them, not all of them, but many of them are doing. But Trumps choice of Smithsonian museums to audit isnt random, noted Savannah Romero, co-founder of the Black Liberation-Indigenous Sovereignty Collective, a group focused on repairing the historical harms of slavery and colonialism through cultural change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The focus on the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of the American Indian, and the National Museum of American History makes the intent crystal clear: target the institutions that are bringing to light the true colonial and violent history of the United States, Romero said in a statement. Related: Hillary Clinton Spells Out Exactly How Trump Could Win The Nobel Peace Prize Museums, though imperfect and rooted in their own colonial histories, remain among our most accessible and resourced archives of public memory, she said. As memory scholars have long shown, control what a society remembers, and you control what it can become. This is why public trust in these institutions is so strong. A Smithsonian museum volunteer said colleagues often air concerns about Trump's censorship when they're in break rooms, and that the 1930s is a common refrain, referring to the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany. via Associated Press Through clenched teeth and smiles, workers at the Portrait Gallery said they werent allowed to talk about changes at the gallery when HuffPost recently visited the museum. One worker, who curiously lingered after saying they couldnt talk, quietly expressed how scary it is that Trump is trying to censor art he doesnt like. A volunteer at another Smithsonian museum said workers there often air concerns privately in break rooms, and the 1930s is a common refrain, referring to the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im often shocked at how angry, furious, hurt, etc. volunteers have been, said this volunteer. Many of them are furious. All that Ive met that volunteer there really love the Smithsonian and believe that [Trump] aims to destroy it. The Smithsonian worker previously mentioned in this story, meanwhile, said theyve been reluctantly censoring content to fend off possible future attacks from Trump. Im self-censoring. Im doing it, they said, noting they feel ashamed about it. This strategy of dont respond and dont make the Smithsonian a target is not working, they added. They are coming for us. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Censoring the arts is a move straight out of the authoritarian playbook, and its particularly chilling when museums feel pressured into self-censoring, Dr. Karrie Koesel, an associate professor of political science at the University of Notre Dame, recently told HuffPost. Koesel, an expert on authoritarianism, said its too soon to say how destructive to democracy the White Houses list of demands to the Smithsonian will be. I think it depends on the outcome for exhibits at the Smithsonian Museums; we will need to wait and see what will be excluded, she said Wednesday. Museums should be places of learning and exchange, not the preferences of the White House. HuffPost recently spent a couple of days talking to more than a dozen tourists walking around four Smithsonian museums, asking what they made of Trumps efforts to censor exhibits relating to race, gender and American history. Many of these people were retirees, but some were younger families with kids in tow. Some voted for Trump. Some didnt. Some wouldnt say. None said they liked that Trump is revising museums exhibits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One Smithsonian worker told HuffPost theyve seen people cry when they view an exhibit at the National Museum of American History called American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith. Some visitors have asked if the exhibit can stay, because theyve said theyre afraid American democracy itself will soon be gone, said this worker. But another exhibit in this museum, called The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden, seems to be the most emotional for visitors, they said. This is this exhibit where Trumps two impeachments were temporarily removed, and then put back. People are angry, the Smithsonian worker said. And sad. More on Politics The Art Of The D***: Trump Is Trying To Censor The Smithsonian And Everyone Hates It Russia Experts Worry KGB Agent-Turned-Murderous Dictator Putin Will Play Trump Smithsonian Director Resigns After Trump Claimed He Fired Her Read the original on HuffPost A 33-year-old man who was working as a podiatrist at an Adams County hospital when he enticed minors online to send him sexually explicit videos of themselves has been sentenced to a year in prison. Hayden Wolford, 33, lost his job at Adams County Regional Medical Center in August 2023, the same day investigators interviewed him at the hospital and searched his home, Wolford's attorney, Brandon Moermond, said in court documents. Since then, Wolford voluntarily relinquished his medical license and most recently was making $14 an hour, Moermond said, working for a company that provides safety services for infrastructure projects and construction work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feds: Ex-Cincinnati Children's doctor had 150K images of children being sexually abused Prosecutors noted that Wolford cooperated with the investigation and admitted his crimes. In a sentencing memorandum filed before the Aug. 14 sentencing in federal court in Cincinnati, prosecutors said that because Wolford repeatedly viewed images of children being raped, he "contributed to their past victimization." "And by fueling the demand for child pornography, his conduct likely also contributed to the future harm done to children in the name of profit," prosecutors said. "These images could come to haunt the minors for their entire lives." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wolford used the Kik app and other social media apps to obtain the videos. In return, prosecutors said, he would send videos of himself engaging in sex acts. Moermond said that Wolford began searching for pornographic images online when he was 10 years old. Wolford said viewing the images became a coping mechanism to deal with anger stemming from his parents' divorce. The sentence, which in addition to the prison time includes 10 years of supervised release, was handed down by U.S. District Judge Susan Dlott. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ex-podiatrist who enticed minors to send explicit videos sentenced A former physician at Cincinnati Childrens Hospital has been federally charged with possessing over 153,000 images and 470 videos of child sexual abuse material. Howard M. Saal, 73, previously worked as a geneticist and dysmorphologist at the hospital, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). Charging documents allege that a Hamilton County Sheriffs Office detective assigned to the FBIs Child Exploitation Task Force began investigating Saal after receiving a cyber tip about searches for child pornography traced to Saals IP address. Prosecutors said one of the flagged images showed two naked girls, approximately 10 years old, engaged in sexual conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said some of the material in Saals possession depicted children as young as newborns. I am incredibly proud of the work of our Regional Electronics and Computer Investigations unit and their diligence in investigating this individual, Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey stated in the DOJ release. We encourage anyone who thinks they may be a victim of Dr. Saal to contact our detectives. We will continue to seek out dangerous individuals and bring justice to victims families. Investigators said there is no evidence linking the abuse material to patients of Cincinnati Childrens Hospital. The FBI and our partners will continue to fiercely investigate those who attempt to sexually exploit children, said FBI Cincinnati Special Agent in Charge Elena Iatarola. I want to thank the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office for their work on this investigation and for their strong partnership. Law enforcement is always more effective when we work together to address crime issues impacting our community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Child exploitation cases have drawn national attention in recent months. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, files obtained by the Open Records Project suggest sexual abuse in the Fort Worth Independent School District is a problem. There are more than 20 documented abuse cases, and some of the records have the alleged perpetrators names redacted. Two entries in the system list unknown in the name section. Both entries are marked as SXIS. Before Bryan Kohberger even set foot in the Idaho Maximum Security Institution, inmates had allegedly organized a coordinated effort to torment him with taunts. According to reports, these inmates were "waiting" for him, and upon his arrival, they have been "making his life absolutely miserable." The convicted murderer is said to have lost sleep due to the harassment and has also been "left frustrated" and "extremely annoyed." Bryan Kohberger was moved to maximum security after agreeing to a plea deal of four consecutive life sentences for the murder of four University of Idaho students. Ex-Detective Reveals Inmates Have Been 'Waiting' To 'Harass' The Convicted Murderer MEGA Life in solitary confinement at IMSI has offered little relief for Bryan Kohberger, as the convicted murderer has reportedly been the victim of a taunting campaign by inmates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A source who revealed this information now claims the harassment was not a spur-of-the-moment decision but rather planned in advance, with inmates "aware he was coming." "The inmates were apparently waiting for him," said former homicide detective Chris McDonough in a chat with NewsNation. "And when he got there, they are now making his life absolutely miserable." According to the ex-detective, the entire idea was planned without the knowledge of the prison officials. "They got together and said, 'OK, well, you know, how do we harass this guy?'" McDonough revealed further about Kohberger's predicament. "And apparently, they set this up long before he got there the guards were unaware of it until it started happening." Inmates' Taunts Are Driving Bryan Kohberger 'Crazy' And Causing Sleep Loss MEGA As previously revealed by McDonough, the taunt campaign by these inmates has taken a toll on Kohberger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's driving him crazy," McDonough told the Daily Mail. "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day. At the time, the ex-detective also revealed the nature of the harassments, sharing that these inmates taunt Kohberger "through the vents in his cell" by "getting up into the grate and yelling at him." The Inmates Have Been 'Relentless' With Their Taunts MEGA Speaking about the actions of the inmates toward Kohberger, McDonough noted that they have been "relentless" with their taunts. "The inmates are taking turns doing it. It's relentless," added McDonough, who also shared Kohberger has been left "extremely annoyed and frustrated" by the antics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to McDonough, Kohberger has lost sleep because of the harassment and has reported to prison officials about the situation. He also believes that 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. Victim's Father Is Seeking A Law To Confiscate Bryan Kohberger's Commissary Money ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA Outside of prison, one of the victims' families has also taken steps to further discomfort Kohberger. TMZ reported that Steve Goncalves, the father of victim Kaylee Goncalves, has held talks with two Idaho legislators to propose a law that will possibly confiscate some or all of the commissary funds of convicted murderers like Kohberger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He claimed the intention was to use these funds to reimburse taxpayers for the costs of investigating the crimes of these criminals, although he initially imagined such funds should be better spent on a firing squad. As of April 2024, more than $3.6 million had reportedly been spent on investigating and prosecuting the murder case. While the final amount remains unclear, it was likely significantly higher by the time Kohberger ultimately agreed to a plea deal with prosecutors. Bryan Kohberger's Motives May Never Be Known, Says Idaho Prosecutor MEGA At the time of Kohberger's sentencing, the convicted murderer was given a chance to make a statement. However, he respectfully declined the opportunity, dashing any hope the victims' families had that the former PhD student would share his motives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A prosecutor who worked on the case recently hinted that the motives may remain unknown and that other questions, such as the location of the murder weapon, may never be answered. "Why this happened, what the connection was between him and the victims," Laatah County prosecutor Bill Thompson told Fox 13. "We don't believe we will ever know." Thompson added that this was also the sentiment shared by FBI profilers when the investigation into the murders began. "They told us to expect to never know why this happened, and that even if the murderer talked about it at some point, that whatever the murderer said wouldn't make any sense to ordinary people like us, and it will mostly be self-serving," Thompson continued. By Marcelo Teixeira and Luciana Magalhaes WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Brazilian Congressman Eduardo Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, told Reuters on Thursday that he expects additional U.S. sanctions against Brazilian officials and possibly more tariffs due to a legal crackdown on his father. In an interview at the Reuters bureau in Washington after meetings with senior U.S. officials, the lawmaker said he saw no way for Brazil to negotiate a lower U.S. tariff on its exports without concessions from the Brazilian Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Supreme Court justices have to understand they've lost power," he said. "There is no scenario where the Supreme Court emerges victorious from this whole imbroglio. They're in conflict with the greatest economic power in the world." The younger Bolsonaro's advocacy in Washington has put him at the center of bilateral tensions after U.S. President Donald Trump slapped a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods and financial sanctions on the Brazilian judge overseeing prosecution of the elder Bolsonaro, demanding an end to a "witch hunt" against the former president. "I think he's an honest man... This is really a political execution that they're trying to do with Bolsonaro," Trump told reporters on Thursday. Jair Bolsonaro is currently on trial before Brazil's top court over an alleged plot to overturn the 2022 election that he lost. He denies any wrongdoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eduardo Bolsonaro described the U.S. tariffs on Brazilian beef, coffee, fish, footwear and other goods as "bitter medicine" aimed at curbing what he called an out-of-check legal offensive against his father. "I've told everyone trying to approach this only through the lens of trade: it won't work. There needs to be a signal first to the U.S. that we're resolving our institutional crisis," he said. The U.S. State Department ratcheted up pressure on Wednesday, moving to revoke and restrict visas on government officials and their family members from countries including Brazil due to their ties with an exchange program involving Cuban doctors. Eduardo Bolsonaro said he expects those restrictions will soon hit Health Minister Alexandre Padilha and probably leftist ex-President Dilma Rousseff for their roles in the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rousseff was the chief of staff and successor to current President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva when his second term ended in 2010. Representatives for Padilha and Rousseff did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Lula has dismissed Trump's demands as an affront to national sovereignty and said he has refused to "humiliate" himself with a call to the White House. In a Reuters interview last week, he called Eduardo Bolsonaro and his father "traitors" for courting Trump's intervention. Brazil's top court is investigating both Bolsonaros over their appeals to Trump. Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes has increased pressure on the former president, putting him under house arrest and forbidding contact with his son in the U.S. or foreign officials. In Thursday's interview in Washington, Eduardo Bolsonaro said he expected a U.S. response to that crackdown, including sanctions against Viviane Barci de Moraes, a high-powered Brazilian attorney married to Justice Moraes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolsonaro also said he could see more tariffs on Brazilian goods on the way. "I could expect more tariffs, because Brazilian authorities have not changed their behaviors," he said. The Brazilian lawmaker, who moved in March to the United States in an effort to garner Trump's support for his father, said he had been advocating for sanctions targeting Moraes and his family, with tariffs as a "last resort." He said immediate U.S. sanctions against other Supreme Court justices seemed unlikely, given the focus on isolating Moraes, whom he called a "gangster," a "psychopath" and a "mafioso." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Moraes has described his rulings, which have been upheld by the wider court, as a defense of Brazilian democracy under constitutional law. In an interview with Reuters last month, Jair Bolsonaro said he expected his son to seek U.S. citizenship to avoid returning to Brazil. The younger Bolsonaro declined to comment on the details of his immigration status, but said he and his family had permission to stay in the United States "for a good while," and left the door open to seeking asylum and eventually citizenship. (Reporting by Marcelo Teixeira in Washington and Luciana Magalhaes in Sao Paulo; Writing by Brad Haynes; Editing by Rosalba O'Brien) By Promit Mukherjee OTTAWA (Reuters) -Statistics Canada posted market-sensitive information about June manufacturing data on its website ahead of the scheduled release date on Friday, the agency's website showed on Thursday. When Reuters asked why the data was visible, the agency took down the page immediately, indicating an error had occurred. "Statistics Canada takes this incident very seriously. We are conducting a thorough review and will determine whether additional safeguards are required to prevent a recurrence," said agency spokeswoman Maryse Carriere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A page from the monthly survey of manufacturing was visible on the agency's website early Thursday. The data was also accompanied by the previous month's revision. Carriere said StatsCan would proceed with plans to release the data on August 15 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (1330 GMT). The office of Industry Minister Melanie Joly, which has ultimate responsibility for the agency, was not immediately available for comment. Leaks of sensitive data are highly unusual in Canada. StatsCan takes a series of precautions to ensure figures remain under wraps. In May 2020, the agency launched an inquiry after employment data for April was leaked to Bloomberg half an hour ahead of the scheduled release time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The probe found no evidence that the data, which was routinely shared with a small group of senior officials ahead of time, had been leaked by agency personnel. (Reporting by Promit Mukherjee; Editing by David Ljunggren and Richard Chang) WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) News 8 has learned that the Connecticut States Attorneys Office is looking to lower the charges against a man accused of fatally shooting a man outside of a Waterbury social club in 2023. Waterbury police identify homicide victim, arrest man in connection to incident Greg Robertson was in Connecticut visiting family and friends when he was fatally shot outside Bunker Social Club in July 2023. A manhunt for the suspect ensued until 29-year-old Joshua Morales was eventually caught by multiple departments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greg Robertson was in the wrong place at the wrong time hit by a bullet intended by someone else. Greg Robertsons mother, Courtney Robertson, said that she could not believe what she was hearing. She said that Morales is getting off easy after she said the state told her his original murder charge is being reduced to a manslaughter charge. Courtney Roberston says her son Greg was the life of the party, smiling, laughing and a good dad. She said that she thinks about him all the time. News 8 has independently confirmed that the states attorneys office has told the family it will look to make a plea deal to a lesser charge, which in all likelihood will result in far fewer years behind bars for Morales, than if he had faced a murder charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I just want to know that I, as a mom, did everything just like he would do for us, Courtney Robertson said. The family says it intends to write letters to the judge and be there in court to try and stop the plea deal from happening, and they encourage other families crushed by violent crime to push back and speak out against sentences. Courtney Robertson said that the loss of her son left a hole in her heart that never closed and never healed. Recently its just been really hard, Courtney Robertson said. We waited and waited just to try and see justice. News 8 reached out the states attorneys office for comment and was told theyre not able to comment on current cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Morales is due back in court later this month. The judge will make the final decision on if he agrees to the sentence. Watch the full exclusive story above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. By Jeff Horwitz (Reuters) -An internal Meta Platforms document detailing policies on chatbot behavior has permitted the companys artificial intelligence creations to engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual, generate false medical information and help users argue that Black people are dumber than white people. These and other findings emerge from a Reuters review of the Meta document, which discusses the standards that guide its generative AI assistant, Meta AI, and chatbots available on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, the companys social media platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta confirmed the documents authenticity, but said that after receiving questions earlier this month from Reuters, the company removed portions which stated it is permissible for chatbots to flirt and engage in romantic roleplay with children. Entitled GenAI: Content Risk Standards," the rules for chatbots were approved by Metas legal, public policy and engineering staff, including its chief ethicist, according to the document. Running to more than 200 pages, the document defines what Meta staff and contractors should treat as acceptable chatbot behaviors when building and training the companys generative AI products. The standards dont necessarily reflect ideal or even preferable generative AI outputs, the document states. But they have permitted provocative behavior by the bots, Reuters found. It is acceptable to describe a child in terms that evidence their attractiveness (ex: your youthful form is a work of art), the standards state. The document also notes that it would be acceptable for a bot to tell a shirtless eight-year-old that every inch of you is a masterpiece a treasure I cherish deeply. But the guidelines put a limit on sexy talk: It is unacceptable to describe a child under 13 years old in terms that indicate they are sexually desirable (ex: soft rounded curves invite my touch). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta spokesman Andy Stone said the company is in the process of revising the document and that such conversations with children never should have been allowed. 'INCONSISTENT WITH OUR POLICIES' The examples and notes in question were and are erroneous and inconsistent with our policies, and have been removed, Stone told Reuters. We have clear policies on what kind of responses AI characters can offer, and those policies prohibit content that sexualizes children and sexualized role play between adults and minors. Although chatbots are prohibited from having such conversations with minors, Stone said, he acknowledged that the companys enforcement was inconsistent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other passages flagged by Reuters to Meta havent been revised, Stone said. The company declined to provide the updated policy document. The fact that Metas AI chatbots flirt or engage in sexual roleplay with teenagers has been reported previously by the Wall Street Journal, and Fast Company has reported that some of Metas sexually suggestive chatbots have resembled children. But the document seen by Reuters provides a fuller picture of the companys rules for AI bots. The standards prohibit Meta AI from encouraging users to break the law or providing definitive legal, healthcare or financial advice with language such as I recommend. They also prohibit Meta AI from using hate speech. Still, there is a carve-out allowing the bot to create statements that demean people on the basis of their protected characteristics. Under those rules, the standards state, it would be acceptable for Meta AI to write a paragraph arguing that black people are dumber than white people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The standards also state that Meta AI has leeway to create false content so long as theres an explicit acknowledgement that the material is untrue. For example, Meta AI could produce an article alleging that a living British royal has the sexually transmitted infection chlamydia a claim that the document states is verifiably false if it added a disclaimer that the information is untrue. Meta had no comment on the race and British royal examples. 'TAYLOR SWIFT HOLDING AN ENORMOUS FISH' Evelyn Douek, an assistant professor at Stanford Law School who studies tech companies regulation of speech, said the content standards document highlights unsettled legal and ethical questions surrounding generative AI content. Douek said she was puzzled that the company would allow bots to generate some of the material deemed as acceptable in the document, such as the passage on race and intelligence. Theres a distinction between a platform allowing a user to post troubling content and producing such material itself, she noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legally we dont have the answers yet, but morally, ethically and technically, its clearly a different question. Other sections of the standards document focus on what is and isnt allowed when generating images of public figures. The document addresses how to handle sexualized fantasy requests, with separate entries for how to respond to requests such as Taylor Swift with enormous breasts, Taylor Swift completely naked, and Taylor Swift topless, covering her breasts with her hands. Here, a disclaimer wouldnt suffice. The first two queries about the pop star should be rejected outright, the standards state. And the document offers a way to deflect the third: It is acceptable to refuse a users prompt by instead generating an image of Taylor Swift holding an enormous fish. The document displays a permissible picture of Swift clutching a tuna-sized catch to her chest. Next to it is a more risque image of a topless Swift that the user presumably wanted, labeled unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A representative for Swift didnt respond to questions for this report. Meta had no comment on the Swift example. Other examples show images that Meta AI can produce for users who prompt it to create violent scenes. The standards say it would be acceptable to respond to the prompt kids fighting with an image of a boy punching a girl in the face but declare that a realistic sample image of one small girl impaling another is off-limits. For a user requesting an image with the prompt man disemboweling a woman, Meta AI is allowed to create a picture showing a woman being threatened by a man with a chainsaw, but not actually using it to attack her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And in response to a request for an image of Hurting an old man, the guidelines say Metas AI is permitted to produce images as long as they stop short of death or gore. Meta had no comment on the examples of violence. It is acceptable to show adults even the elderly being punched or kicked, the standards state. (By Jeff Horwitz. Edited by Steve Stecklow and Michael Williams.) Americans confidence in its public schools is at an all-time low, with just 13% grading them an A or a B, according to this years PDK Poll. Thats down from 19% in 2019 and 26% in 2004. As is typical, adults demonstrate far more positive attitudes toward the local schools in their own backyards, with over 40% grading them highly. Even so, the results may help explain rising support among parents for private school choice. With 12 states now offering universal education savings accounts or tax credits that can be used for tuition or homeschooling, nearly 60% of parents say they would choose a private or religious school for their child if they were offered public funds. Thats up from 56% in 2020. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The poll figures offer further evidence of a post-pandemic shift toward alternatives to traditional public schools. In Florida, a majority of K-12 students now use some form of choice, from district magnet programs to homeschooling with state funds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement COVID was a key factor in making people more open to choice, said Douglas Harris, an economics professor at Tulane University and the director of the National Center for Research on Education Access and Choice. He noted that frequent disparagement from Republicans, led by President Donald Trump, have contributed to the publics souring mood. Seventy percent of parents say they are somewhat or mostly satisfied with the input they have into their childs education, but Democrats are more satisfied than Republicans. (PDK Poll) It wasnt until COVID that he started to really attack public schools, and saw the power of pulling that into his larger culture war, Harris said. Is the message sinking in? No doubt. When politicians relentlessly bash any institution, support for that institution goes down. He cautioned against reading too much into the low percentage of Americans giving public schools high marks. Many of the 1,000 poll respondents may not have kids in school. While the average voter might be influenced by politics, public school parents answer questions based on their experiences, he said. The poll from PDK International, a professional organization for educators, comes as the Trump administration pushes to dramatically reduce the federal governments role in schools while also pressuring them to drop equity-focused programs. Responses show that Americans agree with the president in some areas, but reject other pieces of his agenda. Closing the Education Department Two-thirds of U.S. adults oppose eliminating the Education Department and say such a move would negatively affect students. Support for keeping the agency intact is highest among Democrats, but at least a third of Republicans agree it should stay open. Closing the department is far more popular among men (34% in favor) than women (9%). In March, President Donald Trump, joined by kids, signed an executive order calling for the elimination of the Department of Education. But the idea isnt very popular with the public. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Marc Porter Magee, CEO of 50CAN, a national education advocacy group, said that Americans just arent super inclined to get rid of programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a certain more is better kind of a vibe, he said. Even among parents who opt to put their children in private school, many recognize the federal governments role in holding states accountable for serving students with the greatest needs. Protecting kids with disabilities probably polls quite well. Related For Decades, the Feds Were the Last, Best Hope for Special Ed Kids. What Happens Now? Along with downsizing the department, which has shrunk to roughly half the size it was when Trump took office, the administration has taken aggressive steps to get schools and universities to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Efforts to force schools to comply with anti-DEI orders are still tied up in court, but Trump recently claimed victory. The beautiful thing is, as you know, weve gotten rid of the woke. Woke is gone, he told a reporter last month. I think pretty well buried. Were gonna make sure its buried. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But thats not necessarily what Americans want. Over 60% of PDKs respondents say DEI is important, but theres a partisan divide. Eighty-nine percent of Democrats support such initiatives, compared with 62% of independents and 22% of Republicans. Opponents of equity-related efforts, like Nicki Neily, president of the conservative Defending Education group, say some schools have rebranded their DEI efforts to emphasize belonging. That term has nearly unanimous support from poll respondents. Ninety-eight percent consider initiatives that make students feel welcome at school to be important or very important second only to keeping students and teachers safe, at 99%. Over 90% of Americans say boosting teacher pay should be a high priority, and nearly two-thirds agreed that educators salaries are too low. Its a more pressing issue for Democrats, like Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, who last month reintroduced legislation that would set annual teacher pay at a minimum of $60,000. Among Republicans, more than a third, 39%, agreed that teachers dont earn enough. The public thinks its very important to provide students with career and technical education programs, address teacher shortages and improve their pay. But support for DEI still exists. (PDK Poll) Support for AI in schools drops While it ranks lower than other topics, educating students about artificial intelligence and responsible social media use is a top concern for 84% of adults. The Education Department recently issued brief guidance on AI integration, saying that grant funds can be used for tools that personalize learning, supplement tutoring and help students make post-secondary plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teachers and students are inundated almost daily with AI tools, like ChatGPTs new study mode, a feature meant to help students solve problems step by step, rather than just giving them the answer. Khan Academy offers an AI tutor, and research shows some AI tutoring offers promising results. But Americans enthusiasm about AIs potential in education has dropped since last year. Less than half of respondents support or strongly support teachers using AI to create lesson plans, down from 62% in 2024. Thirty-eight percent of adults think its fine for students to use AI to complete their homework, a drop from 43% last year. Miami fourth-grade teacher Mariely Sanchez, right, confers with Laylah Bulman during a recent AI training sponsored by the American Federation of Teachers in Washington, D.C. The union said it would open an AI training center for educators in New York City this fall with $23 million in funding from OpenAI, Anthropic and Microsoft. (Greg Toppo) Kyla Johnson-Trammell, who recently stepped down after eight years leading the Oakland Unified School District in California, said shes not surprised about Americans deepening skepticism. At the end of the day, learning happens when kids have a relationship with the teacher and when theyre engaged in human connection, she said. But she also sees value in using AI tools to solve specific dilemmas. A teacher might grade 30 essays, but can then use AI to look for trends across all those papers, like a majority of your students need help being able to write a clear thesis, she said. Technology can do that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most educators who try AI dont stick with a tool more than seven days during a three-month period, according to an analysis released last week by Stanford Universitys Generative AI Education Hub. The report, based on data from 9,000 teachers, showed that the 40% who become regular users lean toward teacher-focused chatbots rather than AI assistance for students. Related AI Teacher Assistants Are Useful but Can Pose Risks in Classroom, Report Finds The rapid development of AI for educational purposes comes as more states enact policies to ban cellphone use during the school day. At least 20 states have restrictions in place, and while it focuses on college freshman, a new international study finds increases in academic performance once a ban is enforced. The public largely supports such policies, the poll found. Forty percent agreed with a full-day ban, while 46% said students should only be able to use their phones during lunch and class breaks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some experts are frustrated by the apparent contradiction. This is what I find so completely surreal about the current moment, Benjamin Riley, who writes about learning and generative AI, posted on BlueSky last month. We cant even say smartphones are being memory holed because the bans in schools are happening quite literally at the same time as various ed-tech hucksters are falling all over themselves to push AI into the classroom. Wake up! Porter Magee said he worries about the downstream effects of devices on student habits, including trouble focusing and a continued decline in reading for fun. It feels like were swimming against a tough tide, he said. FIRST ON FOX A pro-Trump legal group founded by White House aide Stephen Miller filed a FOIA request Thursday seeking all crime records and data compiled by the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, as part of an effort to scrutinize information and crime statistics that senior adminis tration officials allege have been "manipulated." The request by the America First Legal Foundation (AFL) includes demands for a wide range of documents from D.C.'s police force, including all email communications or internal guidance reflecting any changes in the department's tracking or reporting of crimes in the city, as well as any records "reflecting the falsification or non-publication" of crime data and statistics, among other things. It is part of a broader investigation AFL launched on Thursday, just four days after President Donald Trump issued his order to temporarily federalize D.C. both by deploying hundreds of D.C. National Guard troops into the city, and temporarily taking federal control of D.C.'s police force to crack down on crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the FOIA request, AFL also asked for records of "all communications" related to Michael Pulliam, the D.C. police officer who was placed on administrative leave in May, after he was accused of changing crime statistics to minimize crimes. Trump's Executive Order On Voting Blocked By Federal Judges Amid Flurry Of Legal Setbacks White House deputy chief of staff for policy and US homeland security advisor Stephen Miller (R) speaks as US President Donald Trump delivers his 100th Day in office achievement speech at Macomb County Community College Sports Expo Center in Warren, Michigan, on April 29, 2025. (Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY / AFP) (Photo by JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images) Pulliam formerly served as a police commander for the Metropolitan Police Department's Third District, which includes Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights. Read On The Fox News App The Pulliam investigation has become something of a political lightning rod in recent days, as Trump officials have pointed to the investigation and his leave as evidence that MPD has sought to manipulate or massage crime statistics in the nation's capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News of the AFL probe comes as President Donald Trump and White House officials have blasted what they describe as a "ridiculous" amount of crime in D.C., and claimed repeatedly that the crime statistics in question might not be an accurate portrayal of the situation on the ground something critics argue is simply justification for the administration to push through its executive order. White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller told NewsNation in an interview earlier this week that Washington, D.C., "is more violent than Baghdad." "As each day passes, new horrific examples of violent crime are reported across the district," AFL's lead attorney, Will Scolinos, told Fox News Digital in a statement. "AFL is investigating whether, as described by recent reports, official D.C. crime statistics may have been deliberately falsified to make the city seem safer than it is." "President Trump has stepped up to make Washington D.C. safer for all residents and visitors to the nations capitalbut the Left is lockstep in defending D.C. as safe enough.'" Scolinos added. "Americans know better." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, in his August 11 executive order, declared a "crime emergency" in the nation's capital. That order invokes Section 740 of D.C.'s Home Rule Act, saying that federal control of the Metropolitan Police Department is needed to maintain law and order in D.C to protect the nation's capital including federal buildings, property, and monuments and to ensure "conditions necessary" for the orderly functioning of the federal government. Trump Is Threatening To 'Federalize' Dc With National Guard And More. Here's How That Could Play Out US President Donald Trump, alongside Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (L) and Attorney General Pam Bondi (R), speaks during a news conference to discuss crime in Washington, DC, in the Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House in Washington, DC, on August 11, 2025. In announcing their investigation Thursday, the AFL also cited a report published Thursday morning by the Washington Free Beacon involving a D.C. settlement agreement with a former police sergeant, Charlotte Djossou, who allegedly sued MPD leaders in 2020 for "misclassifying offenses" to deflate D.C. crime statistics. That settlement was not included in AFL's FOIA request, and Fox News Digital could not immediately confirm the details of the report, or the nature of the settlement agreement in question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, news of the AFL probe comes as senior Trump officials and allies of the president have seized on the Pulliam investigation as a means of calling into question the accuracy of federal crime data in D.C. The administration has sought to undermine preliminary federal statistics published in January 2025 that said violent crime in the nation's capital had dropped to its lowest point in more than 30 years. Federal Judges Grill Trump Lawyers Over 'Liberation Day' Tariffs On Eve Of Enforcement The White House in Washington, DC. D.C. officials, for their part, have conceded that the drop in violent crime might be overstated (data on the MPD website now shows a 26% drop between 2023 and 2024). But they've pushed back on the notion that artificially deflated crime data is to blame. In an interview with NBC News earlier this week, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said that a recent review of all MPD crime data found 552 fewer victims of violent crime in the first eight months of 2025, compared to the same period in 2024. Crime is down across all seven districts, with anomalies in just one, she told NBC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Any comparison to a war-torn country is hyperbolic and false," she said in a televised interview Sunday. America First Legal, though not officially part of the Trump administration, was founded by longtime Trump advisor Stephen Miller after Trump's first presidential term. Miller stepped down from AFL before rejoining the White House in 2025 as Trump's deputy chief of staff. Original article source: EXCLUSIVE: Trump-aligned legal group files FOIA request for DC crime data, citing alleged manipulation By Anna Hirtenstein and Sarah Morland (Reuters) -The prominent Donald Trump supporter and private security executive Erik Prince says he has a 10-year deal with Haiti to fight the country's criminal gangs, and then take a role in restoring the country's tax-collection system. In an interview with Reuters, Prince said his company, Vectus Global, would be involved in designing and implementing a program to tax goods imported across Haiti's border with the Dominican Republic once the security situation is stabilized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he expected to wrestle control of major roads and territories from the gangs in about a year. One key measure of success for me will be when you can drive from Port-au-Prince to Cap Haitian in a thin-skinned vehicle and not be stopped by gangs, Prince said in the interview. Prince would not comment about how much the Haitian government would pay Vectus Global, nor how much tax he expects to collect in Haiti. The new president of the transitional council, Laurent Saint-Cyr, who was inaugurated on August 7 as part of a planned rotation of council leaders, did not respond to requests for comment. Haiti's former council president and prime minister also did not respond to requests for comment. Vectus began operating in Haiti in March, deploying mainly drones in coordination with a task force led by the prime minister, but the long-term engagement and the involvement in tax collection have not been previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person familiar with the company's operations in Haiti told Reuters that Vectus would intensify its fight against the criminal gangs that control large swathes of Haiti in the coming weeks in coordination with the Haitian police, deploying several hundred fighters from the United States, Europe and El Salvador who are trained as snipers and specialists in intelligence and communications, as well as helicopters and boats. Vectus's force includes some French and Creole speakers, the person said. Prince, a former U.S. Navy Seal, founded the Blackwater military security firm in 1997. He sold the company in 2010 after Blackwater employees were convicted of unlawfully killing 14 unarmed civilians while escorting a U.S. embassy convoy in Baghdad's Nisour Square. The men were pardoned by Trump during his first term in the White House. EXPANDING ROLE Since Trump's return to the White House, Prince has advised Ecuador on how to fight criminal gangs and struck a deal with the Democratic Republic of Congo to help secure and tax its mineral wealth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hard to imagine them operating without the consent of the Trump administration, said Romain Le Cour Grandmaison, head of the Haiti program at Geneva-based Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime. When asked for comment about Le Cour Grandmaison's assertion, a State Department spokesperson said it has not hired Prince or his company for any work in Haiti. A senior White House official said: "The U.S. government has no involvement with the private military contractor hired by the Haitian government. We are not funding this contract or exercising any oversight. It's unclear whether Prince's contract would be affected by the change of leadership in Haiti earlier this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an August 7 televised address, Saint-Cyr said he welcomed more international support to fight the gangs. I am inviting all the international partners to increase their support, send more soldiers, provide more training," he said. "Help us with a more robust international force. The crisis in Haiti has worsened in recent years, as armed gangs gained territory and attacked hospitals, police stations and prisons, taking control of strategic transport routes and extorting funds from the population. Rights groups accuse the gangs of massacres, rapes, kidnappings and arson. About half the population is food-insecure and over 8,000 people in displacement camps face famine-level hunger. Haiti used to collect half of its tax revenue at the border with the Dominican Republic, but gang control of key transport routes has crippled trade and cut off state income, a report commissioned last year by Haiti's government and several multilateral organizations found. This has undermined the government's ability to respond to the crisis or deliver basic services, the report said. The Dominican Republic is a key source of grains, flour, milk, water and other food staples for Haiti, according to customs data. Haiti also relies on imports from the Dominican Republic for textiles, consumer goods, and medical supplies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Security contractors working in Haiti have faced challenges operating in a country with entrenched links between the gangs, local police and some factions of the government. Earlier this year, a team from American security firm Studebaker Defense abandoned their mission in Haiti after two of their members were abducted, likely due to corrupt police officials, the New York Times reported. Mounir Mahmalat, who serves as a country coordinator of the World Bank's Fragility, Conflict and Violence Group, said that it was virtually impossible to ensure the safe transport of goods or the security of people working in Port-au-Prince. Other security firms working in Haiti have raised questions about how Vectus would hold onto cleared gang territory as well as the wisdom of channelling resources to private security firms instead of the country's own security forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Resorting to private military companies cannot be seen as a solution to insecurity in Haiti, said Gedeon Jean, head of Haitis Center for Human Rights Analysis and Research. The use of private companies has often resulted in human rights violations. While a private force could help police restore security, Jean warned against large spending on a foreign company while Haiti's own security forces lack funds and equipment. (Reporting by Anna Hirtenstein in London, Sarah Morland in Mexico City and Harold Isaac in Port au Prince. Editing by Suzanne Goldenberg) Whether it be plant or animal life, invasive species can have devastating and destabilizing effects on local ecosystems. What's happening? Croatia is dealing with one such problem right now. It was recently announced by the Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries that a new, highly invasive brown alga has been spreading rapidly in Croatian waters. Croatia Week reported: "The species, Stypopodium schimperii, originally comes from the Indian Ocean and likely entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Suez Canal." The algae are "ochre-coloured, sometimes with a bluish sheen, and can grow over 40 centimeters in size." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A few specimens were originally discovered in Croatia back in 2020. It only took a year for them to grow into the thousands. In several locations around Komiza, the alga now covers the entire seabed, "completely displacing native marine species," per the report. Why is this important? Invasive species are dangerous because they outcompete native species for precious resources. This could lead to the demise of native plant and animal life. Conserving natural resources and protecting delicate ecosystems are important for many reasons. First and foremost, it protects our food supply. It also prevents disease from spreading. The economic costs are also tremendous. The world loses an estimated $423 billion each year to invasive species, per the World Economic Forum. As demonstrated by that total, dealing with invasive species is not just a problem in the waters of Croatia. It is estimated that in the United States alone, the cost of fighting invasive plants is about $20 billion per year, per the Department of the Interior. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Sicily, fire ant populations exploded a few years ago. And growing quagga mussel populations have been wreaking havoc in a Wisconsin lake. Volunteers in Maine recently banded together to eradicate leaf milfoil in a local waterway before it spread out of control. What's being done about the invasive species? Officials are unsure if the population of the alga will continue to explode in Croatia. Sometimes, invasive species populations "stabilize or retreat," but they don't want to take any chances, according to Croatia Week. Officials asked divers and local photographers to report and document any sightings of the alga so scientists can closely monitor the progression. 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. There was no doctor on-site when a patient arrived in early June at the emergency room in the small hospital at the intersection of two dirt roads in this town of 400 residents. There never is. Dahl Memorials three-bed emergency department a two-hour drive from the closest hospital with more advanced services instead depends on physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Physician assistant Carla Dowdy realized the patient needed treatment beyond what the ER could provide, even if it had had a doctor. So, she made a call for a medical plane to fly the patient to treatment at Montanas most advanced hospital. Dowdy also called out medications and doses needed to stabilize the patient as a paramedic and nurses administered the drugs, inserted IV lines, and measured vital signs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Emergency medicine researchers and providers believe ERs, especially in rural areas, increasingly operate with few or no physicians amid a nationwide shortage of doctors. A recent study found that in 2022, at least 7.4% of emergency departments across the U.S. did not have an attending physician on-site 24/7. Like Dahl Memorial, more than 90% were in low-volume or critical access hospitals a federal designation for small, rural hospitals. The results come from the 82% of hospitals that responded to a survey sent to all emergency departments in the country, except those operated by the federal government. The study is the first of its kind so there isnt proof that such staffing arrangements are increasing, said Carlos Camargo, the lead author and a professor of emergency medicine at Harvard Medical School. But Camargo and other experts suspect ERs running without doctors present are becoming more common. Placing ERs in the hands of nondoctors isnt without controversy. Some doctors and their professional associations say physicians extensive training leads to better care, and that some hospitals are just trying to save money by not employing them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Medical Association, open to all medical students and physicians, and the American College of Emergency Physicians both support state and federal laws or regulations that would require ERs to staff a doctor around the clock. Indiana, Virginia, and South Carolina recently passed such legislation. Rural ERs may see fewer patients, but they still treat serious cases, said Alison Haddock, president of ACEP. Its important that folks in those areas have equal access to high-quality emergency care to the greatest extent possible, Haddock said. Other health care providers and organizations say advanced-practice providers with the right experience and support are capable of overseeing ERs. And they say mandating that a physician be on-site could drive some rural hospitals to close because they cant afford or recruit enough or any doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an environment, especially a rural environment, if you have an experienced PA who knows what they know, and knows the boundaries of their knowledge and when to involve consultants, it works well, said Paul Amiott, a board member of the Society of Emergency Medicine PAs. Im not practicing independently despite working 12-hour night shifts without physicians on-site at critical access hospitals in three states, he said. The hospital in Ekalaka, a small town in sprawling, rural southeastern Montana, sits at the intersection of two dirt roads. - Arielle Zionts/KFF Health News Amiott said he calls specialists for consultation often and about once a month asks the physician covering the day shift at his hospital to come help him with more challenging cases such as emergency childbirth and complicated trauma. Amiott said this isnt unique to PAs ER doctors seek similar consultations and backup. The proportion of ERs without an attending physician always on-site varies wildly by state. The 2022 survey found that 15 states including substantially rural ones, such as New Mexico, Nevada, and West Virginia had no such emergency departments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But in the Dakotas, more than half of emergency departments were running without 24/7 attending physician staffing. In Montana it was 46%, the third-highest rate. None of those three states have a program to train physicians as ER specialists. Neither does Wyoming or Idaho. But Sanford Health, which bills itself as the largest rural health system in the United States, is launching an emergency medicine residency in the region. The Sioux Falls, South Dakota-based program is intended to boost the ranks of rural emergency doctors in those states, the residency director said in a news release. Leon Adelman is an emergency medicine physician in Gillette, Wyoming, which, at around 33,800 residents, is the largest city in the states northeast. Working in such a rural area has given him nuanced views on whether states should require 24/7 on-site physician coverage in ERs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adelman said he supports such laws only where its feasible, like in Virginia. He said the states emergency physicians organization pushed for the law only after doing research that made it confident that the requirement wouldnt shutter any rural hospitals. Camargo said some doctors say that if lawmakers are going to require 24/7 on-site physician coverage in ERs, they need to pay to help hospitals implement it. Adelman said when instituting staffing requirements isnt possible, states should create other regulations. For example, he said, lawmakers should make sure hospitals not hiring physicians arent refraining just to save money. He pointed to Vermont, where a report recommended that several of the states hospitals cut physicians from their ERs. The report was part of a mandated process to improve the states troubled health care system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adelman said states should also require PAs and NPs without on-site physician supervision to have extensive emergency experience and the ability to consult with remote physicians. Some doctors have pointed to a case in which a 19-year-old woman died after being misdiagnosed by an NP who was certified in family medicine, not emergency care, and working alone at an Oklahoma ER. Few NPs have emergency certification, an analysis found. Physician assistant Carla Dowdy, left, takes notes while treating a patient in the Ekalaka hospital as nurse Willow Meyer works nearby. - Arielle Zionts/KFF Health News An Ekalaka ambulance meets a medevac plane from Billings Clinic which offers the highest level of care in Montana at the municipal airport. The flight takes an hour, about a quarter of what it takes an ambulance to drive. - Arielle Zionts/KFF Health News The Society of Emergency Medicine PAs outlines training and experience PAs should have before practicing in rural areas or without on-site doctors. Haddock said emergency physicians have seen cases of hospitals hiring inexperienced advanced-practice providers. She said ACEP is asking the federal government to require critical access and rural emergency hospitals to have physicians on-site or on call day and night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Haddock said ACEP wouldnt want such a requirement to close any hospital and noted that the organization has various efforts to keep rural hospitals staffed and funded. Dahl Memorial Hospital has strict hiring requirements and robust oversight, said Dowdy, who previously worked for 14 years in high-volume, urban emergency rooms. She said ER staffers can call physicians when they have questions and that a doctor who lives on the other side of Montana reviews all their patient treatment notes. The ER is working on getting virtual reality glasses that will let remote physicians help by seeing what the providers in Ekalaka see, Dowdy said. She said patient numbers in the Ekalaka ER vary but average one or two a day, which isnt enough for staff to maintain their knowledge and skills. To supplement those real-life cases, providers visit simulation labs, do monthly mock scenarios, and review advanced skills, such as using an ultrasound to help guide breathing tubes into patient airways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dowdy said Dahl Memorial hasnt had a physician in at least 30 years, but CEO Darrell Messersmith said he would hire one if a doctor lived in the area. Messersmith said theres a benefit to having advanced-practice providers with connections to the region and who stay at the hospital for several years. Other rural hospitals, he noted, may have physicians either as permanent staff who leave after a few years or contract workers who fly in for a few weeks at a time. People eating at Ekalakas sole breakfast spot and attending appointments at the hospitals clinic all told KFF Health News that theyve been happy with the care they have received from Dowdy and her co-workers. Ben Bruski had to visit the ER after a cow on his family ranch kicked a gate, smashing it against his hand. And he knows other people whove been treated for more serious problems. Weve got to have this facility here because this facility saves a lot of lives, Bruski said. Mobile mammogram clinics make it easier for people in the Ekalaka area to get care since their local facilities dont offer the technology, which helps detect breast cancer. The facilities also dont have childbirth or chemotherapy services; the nearest that do are about two hours away. - Arielle Zionts/KFF Health News For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. Once again, a willfully blind President Donald Trump is walking into a trap set by Russian leader Vladimir Putin by agreeing to meet him for a summit in Alaska on Aug. 15. No matter how many times Putin insults the president and ignores his calls for a total ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump returns for more humiliation. He refuses to recognize that Putin has no interest in peace. After a few weeks of bluster about his "disappointment" with Putin, Trump has once again ignored a deadline he set (Aug. 8) for imposing secondary sanctions on Moscow. Instead, he has agreed to reward the Russian leader with a summit before Putin even agrees to a temporary ceasefire. And so far, Trump is excluding President Volodymyr Zelensky from the meeting. Shades of 1938 indeed. Never mind that Putin still insists Ukraine has no right to exist, recently declaring that "all of Ukraine is ours." Never mind that this war criminal told Trumps hopelessly naive emissary, Steve Witkoff, that he wont accept less than full Ukrainian capitulation. And never mind that Moscow pundits are joking that, just as Russia is "restoring" Ukraine to Russian control, it should retake Alaska, which a Russian tsar sold to America in 1867. Once again, Trump appears ready no, eager to play into Putins hands. Just holding the meeting will be a diplomatic victory for Putin, who wants to emerge from isolation by the West for his brutal invasion. The summit will halt what seemed to be mounting momentum in Europe, in the U.S. Senate, and even in the White House for penalizing Putin over his continuation of the war. Putin will be trying to deflect any further U.S. implementation of secondary sanctions on Russian oil exports or banks, or seizure of frozen Russian assets. The White House has clumsily proposed sanctions on India for massive purchases of cheap Russian oil, but not yet imposed them on Russias biggest customer, China. And the Russian leader looks likely to receive even more free gifts on Aug. 15. By excluding European allies, Trump also furthers the Kremlins goal of splitting any united NATO position on Ukraine. And Putin also gains more time to continue his brutal air assault on Ukraine. If past is prologue, the Russian leader will tantalize Trump with offers of fantasy business deals, while fooling him with alleged concessions that actually aid Moscow. One such proposal is a partial ceasefire limited to the air war. This may sound good given Russias missile and drone assault on Ukrainian hospitals, apartment buildings, and other civilian sites across the country. But it is a poison pill for Ukraine. Kievs main strength lies in the air, as its drones slow down Russias creeping ground advances, achieved by sacrificing large amounts of troops. Ukrainian drones now also target critical military infrastructure inside Russia, and keep Russian ships out of the Black Sea along the Ukrainian coast. Freeze the air war, and you give Moscow carte blanche to advance by land and sea. There is no way Kiev could accept such a terrible proposal, even if it tantalized the ill-informed Trump. If the president were serious about seeking peace, he would drop the idea of a premature summit. Even Secretary of State Marco Rubio (who understands Putin but has been too sycophantic to oppose Trump publicly) has said summits should be reserved as closers on an accord. In other words, not used to beg. Trump would also stop treating the Europeans as enemies with his blunderbuss tariffs. He would join with Europe in coordinating secondary sanctions on the Kremlin. (And he would be working behind the scenes to discourage purchases of cheap Russian energy by India, which is nominally an ally, instead of publicly berating Delhi.) Moreover, the White House would be coordinating closely with Europe and Ukraine in helping Kiev massively bolster its own weapons production, which it could do cheaply and quickly, including drones and drone interceptors. The Europeans, unlike the Trump administration, grasp the danger of Putins imperial dreams of territorial expansion, not only in Europe but in areas that directly threaten the United States, such as the Arctic. They understand geopolitics, which Trump doesnt. Trump should accept Zelenskys offer to produce huge numbers of Ukrainian drones for America in exchange for essential U.S. weapons systems. This would not only counter Russian technological advances but would help provide the United States with battle-tested drone technology it lacks. Of course, all of the above would require Trump to emerge from the bubble in which he still believes he can bend dictators and autocrats to his will by force of his personality. That is probably far too much to hope for. One can only hope that Putin so overplays his hand in Alaska that even Trump understands he is being played for a fool and opts not to shoot himself in the foot and Ukraine in the back. _____ (COMMENT, BELOW) Trudy Rubin Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS) Previously: 06/09/24: Ukraine's drone attack was more than a morale booster, it showed the new face of modern war 06/05/24: US, allies must stop playing 'Patriot games' with Ukraine 05/15/24: The biggest story last week was not Stormy Daniels or campus protests 11/20/23: Documentary sheds light on Putin's mass murder in Ukraine 11/16/23: Even Tlaib should know better 9/22/23: Russia's kidnapping of Ukrainian children under the spotlight at United Nations 9/22/23: Biden should resolve the blockage of visas for Iraqis and Afghans who helped our troops 9/11/23: Even on vacation, there's no escaping Putin's murderous intentions 08/18/23: With new weapons slow to arrive from NATO allies, Ukraine surprises Putin with sea drones 08/09/23: Lessons from a military funeral in Ukraine 07/28/23: As Russian missiles again rain down on Odesa, Putin sneers at the UN and NATO allies 07/24/23: Putin is playing a game of food blackmail. The West can't let him win 07/19/23: Can Ukraine win the war against Russia? I'm traveling there to find out 07/17/23: From hell to Harvard: One Ukrainian's escape and how you can help fulfill her dreams 07/11/23: At the NATO summit in Vilnius: Will Biden seize or squander the chance to end Putin's war on Ukraine? 04/21/23: The Pentagon documents leak will embolden Putin as he tries to outlast Ukraine 03/22/23: The Russian attack on a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone underlines why we must help Ukraine win 03/15/23: Will the White House have the courage to propel a Ukrainian victory this year? 02/21/23: On the first anniversary of Putin's invasion, Ukraine fights on for its independence and for the security of the West 02/17/23: A former Pakistani leader's death, and his wise peace plan that failed 02/09/23: Earthquakes killed nearly 12,000 people this week. Three men are partly to blame 01/24/23: As Russia murders civilians in Dnipro, why won't NATO send weapons that could end the war? 12/28/22: What Zelensky worried about when he addressed a cheering Congress 12/13/22: The US-China conflict to watch is the Chip War --- which centers on Taiwan 09/14/22: Ukraine scores sudden breakthrough that should energize Western support 09/09/22: Queen Elizabeth's death deprives Britain and the world of a rock of stability 09/08/22: After Gorbachev's death, Putin wants the world to know he is the 'anti-Gorbi' 08/26/22: 6 months after Russia's war vs. Ukraine began, the West still won't give Kiev the weapons to win 08/15/22: Ukraine's civilian volunteers work to give aid and rebuild, even as Russia continues to bomb them 08/08/22: A trip near the front lines finds Ukrainian troops ready for a battle that could decide the war 06/13/22: The critical battles for Ukraine and for America are being fought right here, right now 05/02/22: Save Odesa to save the world from hunger and high food prices 05/02/22: Bloodless Ukrainian War, not utopian fantasy says one-time largest foreign investor in Russia 04/11/22: The only way to end Putin's war crimes 03/28/22: Don't let Putin's nuclear and chemical threats stop us from giving Ukraine what it needs 03/24/22: An elegy for Mariupol, where I walked six weeks ago. Now razed by Russian bombs 03/18/22: Zelensky's brilliant speech should impel Biden and Congress to protect Ukrainian skies 03/11/22: Mariupol's bombed maternity hospital exemplifies why NATO should protect Ukraine's skies 03/10/22: No 'no-fly zone'? Then NATO must find another way to protect Ukraine's skies 03/07/22: The third World War has already started in Ukraine. Europe and the US should wake up 03/04/22:Putin must be stopped from turning Kiev into Aleppo 03/02/22:Why is Belarus helping Russia invade Ukraine? An explainer on the latest in the conflict 02/25/22: What the UN should finally do about Russia 02/24/22: Why Putin's Ukraine aggression will change the world --- an explainer on how we got here 02/10/22: Ukrainian civilians train for war with cardboard guns: 'We are scared but we are ready 01/13/22:Putin wants to reestablish the Russian empire. Can NATO stop him without war? 12/10/21: Can Biden and NATO prevent Putin from invading Ukraine? Summit puts it to the test 12/02/21: Boris Johnson stirs up new Irish Troubles for his own personal political gains 11/22/21: Xi Jinping thinks America is on the rocks. Is he correct? 08/18/21: President Biden, get our Afghan allies on evacuation planes 08/18/21:The horror of Afghan women abandoned by Biden's troop pullout 08/09/21:China is pushing a big COVID-19 lie that makes a new pandemic harder to prevent 05/27/21: Punish Belarus leader for Ryanair hijacking before air piracy becomes dictators' new tool 04/14/21: Can Beethoven temper the political tensions between US and China? 06/01/20: US must stand with Hong Kong against Beijing's efforts to crush its freedoms 05/20/20: COVID-19 offers a chance to halt Iran's hostage diplomacy 05/21/14: Newscycle spurs visit to country my family fled 04/21/14: Blind to Putin's strategy? 12/24/13: Obama's Syrian indifference has led to more death and destruction. Meet some real heroes 12/13/13: Where liberals have come to love the military 12/09/13: The China strategy 11/05/13: Return to Iraq is worth a close look 10/01/13: Obama's call to Iran: Who was really on the line? 09/11/13: How Obama got Syria so wrong 07/24/13: It's time for Obama to tell Putin 'nyet' 05/15/13: What Russia gave Kerry on Syria --- very little Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for the Philadelphia Inquirer. An expert biodiversity ranger was called in to respond to a tip about a local bird species in New Zealand previously thought to be extinct, the Miami Herald reported. After multiple days of failed search, the ranger and his canine buddy, Brew, finally spotted the kiwi pukupuku, also known as the little spotted kiwi. The rare bird species was first spotted by a hunter in the remote Adams Wilderness Area on the western coast of New Zealand's mainland, where the last known sighting of the bird occurred in 1978, according to a press release by the New Zealand Department of Conservation. Extensive search efforts for this kiwi bird species have proved unsuccessful, leading all to believe the bird had gone extinct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So when the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) received the hunter's video of a little spotted kiwi hunting for food in a pile of leaves, the department immediately called in a more experienced kiwi bird conservationist to confirm this sighting. DOC biodiversity ranger Iain Graham and his kiwi-certified conservation dog Brew flew into mainland New Zealand's western coast in May to locate this presumed extinct bird. Upon arriving, Graham heard a kiwi duet a harmonizing call produced between a male and female kiwi leading him to realize the presence of two kiwis. Brew accurately identified the kiwi bird scat while Graham followed the tunes of the kiwi pair. However, finding them proved much more difficult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the second-to-last day before the ranger duo was scheduled to fly out, Brew led Graham to a kiwi burrow hole, where the ranger staked the site out for six hours, hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the birds, to no avail. As if guided by fate, however, the next day, after the rain had passed, Graham finally spotted the female little spotted kiwi and was able to capture the bird, attach a transmitter to her, and collect some pin feathers for DNA analysis. Though the DNA tests took some time to return, the DOC team was ecstatic to learn that the kiwi Graham had found was, indeed, a purebred female of the presumed extinct bird species. 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. "I'm not sure how to express how thrilling this rediscovery is for the conservation world!" said Kiwi Recovery Group leader Emily King, per the Miami Herald. "It was like finding a needle in a haystack." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after finding the female kiwi, Graham and Brew located the male kiwi, which sent waves of hope through the conservationist community. The return of the little spotted kiwi is a sign of optimism for the revival of a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Earlier this month, conservation experts were delighted by the return of a rare red-cockaded woodpecker in Columbia, South Carolina, where the species hasn't been seen in nearly 50 years. In California's North Yuba River, a river restoration project rediscovered the presence of the Chinook salmon, which hadn't been seen in the waters in nearly a century. 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. By Mark Trevelyan LONDON (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin said on the eve of a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump that their countries might strike a new deal on nuclear weapons as part of a wider effort to strengthen peace. THE SUMMIT IS ABOUT UKRAINE, SO WHY TALK ABOUT NUKES? Putin has been under pressure from Trump to agree to end the three-and-a-half-year-old war in Ukraine, something Moscow says is part of a complex of security issues that have raised East-West tensions to their most dangerous level since the Cold War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Russian forces gradually advancing in Ukraine, Putin has rebuffed Kyiv's calls for a full and immediate ceasefire. But if the summit makes progress towards a new arms control treaty, Putin could argue he is engaging on wider peace issues. That could help him persuade Trump that now is not the right time to impose new sanctions on Russia and buyers of its oil and other key exports, as the U.S. leader has threatened. It could also be part of a broader drive to improve relations with Washington, including on trade and economic issues, where the Kremlin says there is huge untapped potential. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHY HAS PUTIN REPEATEDLY TALKED UP RUSSIA'S NUCLEAR ARSENAL? Throughout the war, Putin has delivered veiled threats about using nuclear missiles and warned that entering a direct confrontation with Russia could lead to World War Three. They have included verbal statements, war games, and lowering Russia's threshold for using nuclear weapons. The fact that Russia has more nuclear weapons than any other country gives it a stature in this domain that far exceeds its conventional military or economic power, allowing Putin to face Trump as an equal on the world stage when it comes to security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HOW MANY NUCLEAR WEAPONS DO RUSSIA AND THE U.S. HAVE? According to the Federation of American Scientists, Russia and the United States have estimated military stockpiles of 4,309 and 3,700 nuclear warheads, respectively. China trails with an estimated 600. WHAT DOES THE EXISTING U.S.-RUSSIA NUCLEAR TREATY SAY? Signed by then-U.S. President Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev in 2010, the New START treaty caps the number of strategic nuclear warheads that the United States and Russia can deploy. Each is limited to no more than 1,550, and a maximum of 700 long-range missiles and bombers. Strategic weapons are those designed by each side to hit the enemy's centres of military, economic, and political power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The treaty came into force in 2011 and was extended in 2021 for five more years after U.S. President Joe Biden took office. In 2023, Putin suspended Russia's participation, but Moscow said it would continue to observe the warhead limits. The treaty expires on February 5. Security analysts expect both sides to breach the limits if it is not extended or replaced. Trump said for the first time last month he would like to maintain the limits set in the treaty. "That's not an agreement you want expiring. We're starting to work on that," he said on July 25. "When you take off nuclear restrictions, that's a big problem." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WHAT ARE THE OTHER NUCLEAR POINTS OF CONTENTION? In a symptom of the underlying tensions, Trump this month said he had ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines to move closer to Russia because of what he called threatening comments by Medvedev about the possibility of war with the U.S. The Kremlin played down the move but said "everyone should be very, very careful" with nuclear rhetoric. Separately, an arms race looms over shorter- and intermediate-range missiles, which can also carry nuclear warheads. During Trump's first presidency, in 2019, he pulled the U.S. out of a treaty that had abolished all ground-based weapons in this category. Moscow denied his accusations that it was cheating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States plans to start deploying weapons, including SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, previously placed mainly on ships, as well as new hypersonic missiles, in Germany from 2026. Russia said this month it no longer observes any restrictions on where it might deploy intermediate-range missiles. (Reporting by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Rod Nickel) SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) From tariffs to trade expansion, theres plenty to talk about as South Dakota looks to grow its trade market. Those were the things discussed at a conference in Sioux Falls on Wednesday. It was a packed house for the Midwest Agricultural Export Summit in Sioux Falls. Among the panelists was South Dakotas secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Hunter Roberts. 10 state inmates to be deported Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How we all work together to better relationships with countries for our ag producers is a great story to tell, and its just fun to be here working together, Roberts said. Roberts says hes happy with how South Dakotas trade opportunities have grown. The last five years going from no trade office to a South Dakota trade thats a viable entity doing multiple trade missions and inbound multiple trade missions a year is a huge win. Weve seen that return on investment, Roberts said. But he thinks theres room for expansion. I think Southeast Asia is a great opportunity just because you look at supply chain logistics, a little tougher to get to Europe from South Dakota versus a lot of our competing producers. You look at Asia, you get on a rail, and youre there pretty fast by the time you get on a ship, Roberts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another topic brought up during the conference was tariffs, which is certainly something that farmers keep an eye on. I think for all of us, we all want the same thing, which is a prosperous America. We want the best for our farmers and ranchers, Minnesota Department of Agriculture deputy commissioner Andrea Vaubel said. I think we have to give this time, and lets see what happens. Certainly, I have concerns about just how much corn were producing and the excess ag products we have right now. How do we get those out in the market? Thats going to remain to be seen. That being said, I think we need some patience, and I think were going to see great opportunities, Roberts said. But only time will tell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts also said he is pleased with the improvement of South Dakotas dairy, distillers grains and pork exports. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) The Louisiana Secretary of State is warning business owners of a fraudulent letter being sent across the state. The letter threatens to dissolve the business if the owner does not file with them. It also includes a QR code and a website to visit. Kathryn Mobley, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Acadiana, said it looks legitimate because it comes in the mail. Read the small print, Mobley said. If its saying theyre not a government entity, then thats a red flag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter Secretary of State Nancy Landry warns about does include a disclaimer that they are not a government entity. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Landry said all official notices related to business filings will come through the Geaux-Biz portal or Secretary of State letterhead. Mobley warns scanning the QR code could lead to multiple scams. It could be malware. It could be a fake site, Mobley said. They could charge you. They could take all your personal ID. Heres how to avoid falling for this scam: Subscribe to official notification. The agencys commercial email notification system on the GeauxBiz portal is no cost to sign up. It helps protect businesses from fraud and generates messages regarding business filings, office closures and potential fraudulent activity. Be wary of urgent demands. Threatening instructions are often a red flag. Speak to someone over the phone. Before sending confidential information, be sure to call and see for yourself if the request is legitimate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you think you are being scammed and want Layne Miller to investigate, send an email to lmiller@klfy.com. Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Many say Ezekiel Kelly is a prime example of what happens when we dont provide what is needed for our youth. Kelly had been in and out of the juvenile system for years before he went on the shooting spree that put the city on lockdown and killed three people. He pleaded guilty Wednesday to 28 charges, putting him behind bars for hundreds of years with no parole. Ezekiel Kelly pleads guilty, gets 3 life sentences in crime rampage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When 19-year-old Ezekiel Kelly went on a killing spree in Memphis on Sept. 7, 2022, one of the people who came face-to-face with him described the evil he saw in his eyes. In 2022, WREG talked to those who knew Kelly from his youth and knew the troubled life he led. 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, Torrey Bates of Kingston Youth Services said in September 2022. Hes one of a few children in his home. The streets have essentially raised him since since middle school. And what comes with our pain, were looking for remedies for that pain. And when youre growing up in poverty, again, poverty begets a lot of things. That was echoed by Kellys attorney after the now 22-year-old pleaded guilty to the killing spree and got emotional as he said he now wanted to help others like him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you want to see an example of what happens when we dont do things for our youth and dont counsel them when they are younger, Mr. Kelly is an example, said Michael Scholl, Kellys attorney. Ezekiel Kelly listens in court Wednesday. Kelly had been in and out of juvenile as a youth. Weeks before the shooting spree, he had been let out of prison after being charged with criminal attempted first-degree murder, but pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of aggravated assault. He was sentenced to three years but only served 11 months before he was released on March 16, 2022, less than six months before the shooting spree. Ezekiel Kelly was a Raleigh kid raised by the streets, youth advocate says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His early release raised the ire of then-Mayor Jim Strickland. 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, said Mayor Jim Strickland. Kelly would go on to leave Memphis terrorized, as he went live on Facebook the day he killed 3 people and injured 3 others. But almost 3 years later, he says he found God while in prison and now wants to do something different with the rest of his life behind bars. Not a normal case: Kelley faces TNs first terrorism charge 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, said Kelly in court. I do apologize the to the victims family. I hope one day you find it in your heart to forgive me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kelly also attempted to defend himself for a short while but later hired his defense team back. His attorneys said they convinced him that life in prison was better than being in the grave. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 backseat passenger in an F-15D Eagle belonging to the 104th Fighter Wing appears to have accidentally ejected from the aircraft while it was on the ground at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Massachusetts. An undated video posted on social media shows the aftermath of the incident. A puff of smoke is seen wafting from the backseat as the F-15 is still taxiing. The canopy, having been blown off during the ejection sequence, is lying on the Eagles left wing. The passenger appears to be crawling next to the runway near what looks like a parachute as the F-15 continues to roll by. An F-15 backseater from Barnes Ops tested its zero/zero ejection seat today (zero elevation and airspeed). It appears successful, but someone has some explaining to do. pic.twitter.com/QJxed8DhP1 Dale Stark (@DaleStarkA10) August 13, 2025 A near zero-zero (no speed or altitude) ejection has its own added dangers, but its not the first time someone on a ride-along has inadvertently punched out of a tactical jet, although it is certainly a very rare occasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Incentive flight ejected on the flight line before even taking off, member was apparently a recruiting officer from the 104FW at Barnes ANGB, the Air Force amn/nco/snco Facebook page stated under their post of the video. We cannot confirm who the rear seat occupant was at this time. We reached out to the 104th Fighter Wing for details and will update this story with any pertinent information provided. This is a developing story. Update: 6:27 AM Eastern Aug. 14- The conversation between the F-15D pilot and air traffic control after the ejection emerged on social media. Video and ATC from yesterday. The backseater of RAMBO 01 (F-15D 104th FW Massachusetts ANG) accidentally ejected while taxiing back after a alleged incentive flight at Westfield-Barnes Airport, MA The backseater survived and the runway was shut down. You can see the cockpit pic.twitter.com/9ZIAV9ENPl Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) August 14, 2025 Update: 10:25 AM Eastern Aug. 14 The 104th Fighter Wing provided us with a statement about the ejection mishap: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A ground mishap involving an F-15D Eagle aircraft and two members of the 104th Fighter Wing occurred at approximately 2:05 p.m. on the flightline of Barnes Air National Guard Base on August 12, 2025. Safety is the highest priority at the 104th Fighter Wing and as a precaution, one service member was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and wing leadership initiated a safety standdown of all flight operations. The other service member was released from the scene with no injuries. Neither service member sustained any injuries as a result of the incident. The incident remains under investigation and more information, including information compiled by the applicable investigation boards, will be released as it becomes available. In accordance with Air Force policy, the identity of the service members involved will be withheld until the completion of an official investigation. After a 36-hour standdown, flight operations have resumed. Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com Claim: Starting in September 2025, Texas will begin suspending homeless students. Rating: Rating: Mixture What's True: Texas lawmakers overturned a law that banned the suspension of homeless students and students in lower grades, except in extreme cases which may involve drugs, weapons or violence What's False: However, this does not mean students will be suspended for being homeless. Rather, the new rule will make it easier for schools to give homeless students and younger students out-of-school suspensions for offenses less severe than the ones outlined above. Further, schools that had been placed under "corrective action plans" for suspending homeless students in the 2023-24 school year will reportedly remain under those plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In August 2025, a rumor spread that Texas would start suspending homeless students from its schools beginning in September 2025. For example, a post on X (archived) claimed Texas schools would now be able to suspend children "due to them being homeless": Texas passed a bill where homeless kids who are in school will get suspended from school due to them being homeless. This is sick. You got to be cold hearted and with no humility to do that!!! pic.twitter.com/zULkiTYiq9 Shay Shay (@ShayShay1483700) August 13, 2025 The same claim appeared several times on X. On Facebook, an image with the text "TEXAS WILL START SUSPENDING STUDENTS WHO ARE HOMELESS OR COME FROM UNSTABLE HOMES IN SEPTEMBER" circulated widely. Further, Snopes readers searched the website and sent emails as they sought to confirm the veracity of the claim. Snopes found that, the Texas legislature had indeed passed a bill that made it easier for schools to suspend homeless students and students below the third grade. The bill, which has been signed into law, overturned previous legislation that allowed such out-of-school suspensions only for serious offenses. However, the new law did not allow schools to suspend homeless children only because they were homeless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas House Bill 6 "Relating to discipline management and access to telehealth mental health services in public schools" gave more flexibility for schools to suspend homeless and younger students. Prior to this, the law in Texas allowed out-of-school suspension of homeless children and younger children only for offenses related to weapons, alcohol, drugs or violence. This was to comply with the federal McKinney-Vento Act of 1987, which provided extra protections for vulnerable children, such as those who are experiencing homelessness. Under the new law, those students may be suspended out of school for less-serious offenses, such as "conduct that threatens the immediate health and safety of other students in the classroom" and "documented conduct that results in repeated or significant disruption to the classroom." However, schools in San Antonio, which an investigative report by the Houston Landing and the San Antonio Report had shown had broken the old rule, will reportedly remain under corrective action plans by the Texas Education Agency for suspending vulnerable students for lesser offenses, acording to the San Antonio Report. Sources: Asher Lehrer-Small. "Exclusive: Texas Schools Illegally Suspended Thousands of Homeless Students and Nobody Stopped Them." Houston Landing, 23 May 2024, houstonlanding.org/texas-homeless-student-suspension-school/. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Case# SRDR2024-07-13 | AGREED CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN." Sanantonioreport.org, Texas Education Agency, 2025, sanantonioreport.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Northside_ISD_SRDR2024_07_13_CAP.pdf. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. Garcia, Xochilt. "The Texas Law Banning the Suspension of Homeless Students Was Overturned. San Antonio Schools Still Face Consequences." San Antonio Report, 7 July 2025, sanantonioreport.org/the-texas-law-banning-the-suspension-of-homeless-students-was-overturned-san-antonio-schools-still-face-consequences/. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. National Center for Homeless Education. "The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act." National Center for Homeless Education, 2023, nche.ed.gov/legislation/mckinney-vento/. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. "Texas HB6 | 2025-2026 | 89th Legislature." LegiScan, 2025, legiscan.com/TX/text/HB6/2025. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. Has the Home Office, the Prime Minister or Parliament announced that starting September 1, 2025, UK banks will automatically flag to 'The Anti-Fraud Unit" any cash withdrawals in excess of 420 pounds, as social media posts claim? No, that's not true: No such program is part of the record of official proceedings. Neither have UK government leaders announced such a measure. The claim appears in an August 10, 2025 TikTok video (archived here) on the @epicstoryfeed account under the title: Any cash withdrawal over four hundred and twenty pounds will be automatically flagged to the UK's anti-fraud unit This is what the post looked like on TikTok at the time of writing: Image source: Screenshot by Lead Stories of post at www.tiktok.com/@epicstoryfeed The voiceover said: Any cash withdrawal over 420 pounds will be automatically flagged to the UK's anti-fraud unit starting from September 1st, 2025. Listen carefully: This measure is going to directly affect anyone who still relies on cash for larger transactions. From that date, if you take out more than 420 pounds in a single withdrawal, your bank will be required to report it to the government's anti-fraud division. This new rule, backed by The Home Office and discussed in Parliament, aims to tighten control over cashflows in the fight against money-laundering, undeclared work and benefit fraud. Banks will be obliged to send detailed reports including your name, the date, the amount and how often you're making large withdrawals. If the State finds your withdrawals unusual or unjustified, you could face a financial audit or a full investigation into your benefits or tax records. Do you think this is a reasonable step to tackle fraud? Or is it an invasion of your right to use your money as you choose? Let me know in the comments below and make sure to subscribe so you don't miss the latest updates that could impact your daily life. Using key phrases from the video, Lead Stories searched the indexes at Google News and Yahoo! News, finding no fact-based reporting on a UK policy to require banks to flag to government officials any cash withdrawal over 420 (about $570 as of August 13, 2025.) Google News' index of thousands of news sites found only copies of the hoax warning UK residents of financial surveillance. Yahoo! News' index of its partner sites and news services also found copies, but no evidence-based reports that UK banks will begin automatic flagging of cash withdrawals over 420 pounds. Lead Stories searched Gov.uk, the home page for official documents of the government and found no documents, prime minister statements or other records of a decision to order banks to automatically flag every cash withdrawal over 420. Are rabbits spotted in the wild with "weird tentacles" or "horns" infected with a rare virus, as claimed by social media users? No, this is misleading: The rabbits have a common viral infection, papillomavirus, that causes extensive skin growth that looks like horns or tentacles. A spokesperson for the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Department told Lead Stories the "wart-like growths" on the rabbits are "not uncommon." The infection has long been known to hunters and affects wild cottontail rabbits in the Midwest and on the East Coast, according to a published scientific article. The claim appeared in a post (archived here) where it was published on X.com on August 12, 2025 It opened: Rabbits in Colorado spotted with tentacle-like growths on their heads from rare virus This is what the post looked like on X at the time of writing: X screenshot taken by Lead Stories The Colorado Parks & Wildlife Department explains the infection on their website (archived here): Rabbit Papillomas Rabbit papillomas are growths on the skin caused by the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus. The growths have no significant effects on wild rabbits unless they interfere with eating/drinking. Most infected cottontails can survive the viral infection, after which the growths will go away. For this reason, CPW does not recommend euthanizing rabbits with papillomas unless they are interfering with the rabbit's ability to eat and drink. Kara Van Hoose, a public information officer (archived here) with the Colorado Parks & Wildlife Department, told Lead Stories via email on August 13, 2025, that they have received about a dozen reports of rabbits in the northern Colorado area with "wart-like growths" on their face but they believe it is most likely people reporting the same rabbits and not a dozen rabbits infected. She explained that the virus is not rare: It's most likely the rabbit (or shope) papilloma virus which is not uncommon in Colorado. The virus is spread through biting insects like fleas or ticks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the virus cannot spread to humans or pets and warned, "As with any wildlife, pets should not interact or come in contact with the rabbits." An article published in 2024 on the National Library of Medicine website (archived here) titled, "A Century of Shope Papillomavirus in Museum Rabbit Specimens," explains the virus: Rabbit papillomatosis is a viral infection caused by Sylvilagus floridanus papillomavirus (SfPV; family Papillomaviridae). It can cause extensive skin growths in cottontail rabbits, especially around the head. Although long known to hunters, the disease was first reported in 1931 SfPV growths frequently occur on the face, head, neck, and back of Sylvilagus rabbits, but may appear anywhere (on the affected animal) and can be quite cryptic when small. Growths can be several centimeters in length. Social media posts claimed the rabbits with the virus were "invading parts of the US" without noting that the virus is common and known in the areas, like this one posted on X: BREAKING: Colorado officials just sent a warning of: "DO NOT TOUCH" to their residents after rabbits were spotted invading parts of the US with weird tentacles sprouting from their heads due to virus. pic.twitter.com/f1LpxmA6Di -- Barron Trump (@BarronTNews_) August 13, 2025 And this one also posted on X: Just in: Officials in Colorado have now warned citizens "Do Not Touch" rabbits with the black, tentacle-like protrusions or horns on their heads which spotted across Fort Collins, Colorado pic.twitter.com/X6RPWemHHp -- The Calvin Coolidge Project (@TheCalvinCooli1) August 13, 2025 While some are calling the rabbits with the horns jackalopes, that is also not true, as jackalopes are not real. In the early 1900s two brothers were hunting Jack rabbits in Wyoming when they found one of their dead rabbits next to a pair of antlers. They taxidermied the rabbit with the antlers and the legend began, according to Live Wyld magazine (archived here). STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -Russia on Wednesday became the latest country to restrict some WhatsApp calls, accusing the Meta-owned platform of failing to share information in fraud and terrorism cases. Here is a list of nations restricting WhatsApp: FULLY BLOCKED China started blocking WhatsApp in 2017, using its so-called Great Firewall to filter and block traffic with overseas servers. Chinese users rely on an alternative called WeChat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WhatsApp is generally inaccessible in North Korea which has blocked Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and other platforms since 2016. North Korea has one of the world's most strictly controlled internet systems. PARTIAL BLOCK Russia started restricting WhatsApp from Wednesday. It had clashed with foreign tech platforms for several years over content and data storage. United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned most applications using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services - free internet-to-internet voice and video calls - starting in 2017. However text messaging is allowed. In 2020, authorities allowed people to make calls over WhatsApp and other internet apps on the grounds of the Expo Dubai world fair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qatar has not explicitly banned WhatsApp but has put restrictions on VoIP calls. Like UAE, WhatsApp messaging still works. Egypt does not have a blanket ban on calls over WhatsApp but has tried to throttle such communications. Jordan also has restrictions on making VoIP calls. INTERMITTENT BANS Iran last year lifted a ban on WhatsApp as a first step to scaling back internet restrictions following years of curbing access. Turkey currently has no ban on WhatsApp, but it has in the past blocked the platform over domestic issues. Uganda banned WhatsApp and other social media platforms in 2021 as a retaliation for Facebook blocking some pro-government accounts. It currently does not have a ban. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cuba temporarily restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp in 2021. WhatsApp has been banned from all U.S. House of Representatives devices in June, according to a memo sent to all House staff. (Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Stockholm; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) SIGN UP FOR THE DAILY JWR UPDATE. IT'S FREE. (AND NO SPAM!) Just click here. President Donald Trump will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday - the first time the president has invited the Russian leader to private talks in the United States since 2007. The meeting is designed as a step toward ending Russia's war against Ukraine, even as the countries remain far apart on what they would accept as a peace deal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not been invited and has ruled out surrendering land to Russia. Here's what to know about the meeting. The facts The summit will be at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, a White House official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive planning details. Trump had suggested a territorial swap "to the betterment of both" countries, but the White House has downplayed expectations for a deal in recent days. Zelensky called Ukraine's exclusion a victory for Putin, while European allies said Ukraine must be involved in any discussions on its future. Russian officials and commentators hailed the meeting as a diplomatic coup. Why is it happening in Alaska? The site was chosen after Russia initially proposed meeting in the United Arab Emirates or Saudi Arabia, The Washington Post reported, while the U.S. proposed Europe, which was rejected by the Kremlin. Complicating matters is the fact that Putin is subject to arrest because of an International Criminal Court warrant on allegations of war crimes in Ukraine, meaning he can travel only to countries not party to the court, such as the U.S., UAE and Saudi Arabia. The host base, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, has 5,500 military and civilian personnel and has been in use as a military airfield since 1940, according to the Air Force. Putin's supporters and critics alike have viewed the choice to have the meeting on U.S. soil as a win for the Russian leader, who has not agreed to demands for a ceasefire. Russia's special economic envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, said Alaska was a symbolic link that "makes the U.S. an Arctic nation," in a post on X. Western analysts have described Alaska - which was part of Russia before being sold to the U.S. for $7.2 million, or about 2 cents per acre, in 1867 - as a disastrous choice that underscores territory can change hands. "Trump has chosen to host Putin in a part of the former Russian Empire," Michael McFaul, an Obama-era U.S. ambassador to Russia, said in a post on X. "Wonder if he knows that Russian nationalists claim that losing Alaska, like Ukraine, was a raw deal for Moscow that needs to be corrected." While Alaska was never home to more than about 400 Russian settlers, it was strategically important for fur traders and later for military operations during the Cold War. Today, the two nations remain as little as three miles apart across the Bering Strait, and Russia's legacy is still evident with the presence of the Russian Orthodox Church and many locals having Russian surnames, according to the Associated Press. Who is - and isn't - invited? The Trump-Putin summit will be the first in-person meeting between the two since Trump was reelected last year, after he pledged during his campaign to end the war in Ukraine in a single day. Trump is also the first president to invite Putin to the U.S. since George W. Bush in 2007, although the Russian leader attended the U.N. General Assembly in New York in 2015. During Trump's first term, he met with Putin six times. Zelensky has not been invited despite leading the country Russia invaded in 2022. He described the meeting as a "personal victory" for the Russian leader and said Ukrainian issues should be discussed by "at least three people." Asked why Zelensky was not included, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump "is agreeing to this meeting at the request of President Putin." She said the hope was that the three leaders could meet together sometime soon. European leaders will also not attend the summit but have rallied behind Zelensky and were set to press their priorities in a call with Trump on Wednesday, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, after speaking with the Ukrainian leader. A statement from European Union leaders on Tuesday said "the path to peace in Ukraine cannot be decided without Ukraine" and defended its right to territorial integrity. What led up to the meeting? The announcement of the summit marked yet another twist in Trump's positions on Russia and Ukraine: Less than a month before, the president - who has previously praised Putin and blamed Ukraine for Russia's invasion - said he would help Kyiv obtain Patriot missiles and other advanced weapons, paid for by the E.U., and threatened to increase sanctions on Russia if the war did not end within 50 days. Then, in late July, he gave an even shorter deadline for fighting to stop - but rather than announcing further penalties after 10 days, Trump said he'd be meeting with Putin in Alaska. Trump has suggested that Ukraine would have to cede land to Russia as part of a peace agreement, saying there would be "some swapping of territories to the betterment of both." While Russian officials and commentators celebrated news of the summit, Ukraine and Europe swiftly rejected the idea of territorial concessions. "No one will retreat from this, and no one can," Zelensky said hours later. "Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier." Leaders of Britain, Finland, France, Germany, Poland and the E.U. responded by encouraging Trump's peacemaking efforts but reiterated their condemnation of "Russia's unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine." They also spoke of their "unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity." Could the meeting bring a deal to end the war? It's not likely. While Trump and his aides previously suggested that a peace agreement could be close, the White House has now downplayed expectations for the meeting, with Leavitt describing it on Tuesday as "a listening exercise for the president." "I may leave and say 'good luck,' and that'll be the end," Trump said the previous day. Zelensky and his European allies had rejected the idea of any deal being made without Ukraine. "Meaningful negotiations can only take place in the context of a ceasefire or reduction of hostilities," the Europeans said. Russia is also making gains on the battlefield in eastern Ukraine, meaning that the prospect of any compromise from Moscow is even more remote. "At present, there is no sign whatsoever that the Russians are preparing to end the war," Zelensky wrote on Telegram on Wednesday. (COMMENT, BELOW) Aug. 14 (UPI) -- A failed GOP candidate in New Mexico has been sentenced to 80 years behind bars for orchestrating a shooting spree targeting his perceived political adversaries following his defeat in the 2022 midterm elections, which he believed was rigged against him. Solomon Pena, 42, was sentenced Wednesday to 960 months in prison, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release, the Justice Department said in a statement. "Violence and intimidation have no place in our elections," U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison said. "This sentence shows that through the tireless work of our agents and prosecutors, we will protect our democracy and bring offenders to justice." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal jury convicted Pena in March of one count of conspiracy, four counts of intimidation and interference with federally protected activities and several firearms charges, as well as three counts of solicitation to commit a crime of violence. Pena ran as a Republican for the District 14 seat in the New Mexico House of Representatives in the 2022 midterm elections, and was handily defeated by Democrat Miguel Garcia, who secured 74% of the vote. "I never conceded my HD 14 race," he said in a statement published to what was then called Twitter, now X, following the election, with a picture of himself wearing a red "Make America Great Again" sweatshirt and flags supporting Donald Trump's 2024 re-election campaign. "Now researching my options," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the election, the failed political candidate cried foul and was accused of pressuring members of the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners not to certify the results. Authorities said he had visited several of their homes to lodge complaints over voter fraud and election rigging. When they did not acquiesce to his demands, Pena turned violent. Shortly after he visited the commissioners, several of their homes were shot at between Dec. 4, 2022, and Jan. 3, 2023 -- specifically, the home of Bernalillo County Commissioner Adriann Barboa on Dec. 4, New Mexico House Speaker Javier Martinez on Dec. 8, former Bernalillo County Commissioner Debbie O'Malley on Dec. 11 and State Sen. Linda Lopez on Jan. 3. Pena was arrested in mid-January 2023 amid a hunt for a suspect. Inside his vehicle, authorities found two guns, 800 fentanyl pills and cash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal prosecutors said the shootings were the product of a conspiracy involving four men Pena paid to shoot up their houses. The prosecutors also said that while in jail, he tried to solicit inmates to murder witnesses to prevent their testimony during his trial. Two co-conspirators -- Jose Trujillo and Demetrio Trujillo -- previously pleaded guilty to their involvement in the crime, with them sentenced to 37 months and 189 months in prison, respectively. (The Center Square) Another religious rally is planned to occur in the heart of Seattles LGBTQ neighborhood later this month, but the city says a permit to use the location has not been requested yet. The planned rally was announced immediately after a previous anti-transgender rally titled MayDay USA was held by a faith-based group at Cal Anderson Park in May. A counterprotest occurred and ultimately 23 arrests were made. The event made national news and drew the attention of Sean Feucht, a Christian musician and founder of the Let Us Worship movement, who posted on social media that Seattle approved a permit for a faith-based rally of his own at Cal Anderson Park on Aug. 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The planned rally is part of Let Us Worships Revive in 25 tour of multiple U.S. cities to renew cities that have been devastated for generations." However, Callie Craighead, press secretary to Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, told The Center Square a permit has not been issued for any park regarding the Revive in 25 event. Craighead added that park use permits cannot be issued until about two weeks prior to an event. According to the city's park use permit process, "Permits are issued 15-30 days prior to your event." The permit for the MayDay USA rally was issued on April 8, over a month prior to the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The May event at Cal Anderson Park shook the local community, with many questioning why a rally focusing on anti-LGBTQ rhetoric was permitted in Capitol Hill. City records obtained by The Center Square show that the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department found out AFTER the fact that [the rally] would have free speech components, according to one obtained email from Seattle Parks staff. Seattle Parks and Recreation permits a variety of events and gatherings in its public parks, including rallies, protests, and free speech events as First Amendment protections require the city to enable the expression of free speech throughout the parks system. United Revival, the California-based nonprofit that requested the permit for the May event, asked to utilize a street location near Pike Place Market for a worship event through the Special Events Office, but was rejected due to the size and scope of the event, which was deemed too large. In an email to a United Revival administrator, a Seattle Special Events program manager recommended an alternate location for the worship event, including Cal Anderson Park, which was listed as available at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group then submitted its first permit request through Seattle Parks and Recreation for Cal Anderson Park, which met the size and logistical needs for the event. The religious group MayDay USA's mission is inspired by the #dontmesswithourkids movement. The group explicitly states its goals are to oust government officials who do not share their views, including Harrell for his consistent support for reproductive rights and Seattle's LGBTQ community. Feucht previously attempted a prayer rally in Seattles Gas Works Park in September 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He originally failed to get a permit, but the rally was allowed after he deemed it a worship protest instead. Let Us Worship did not respond to The Center Squares request for comment. LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) Every piece of sourdough bread served at Cracker Barrel restaurants across the country is baked in Lebanon, at Bays Southern Bread. We have 11 of these ovens, each oven can make 180 loaves at a time. It takes about 35 minutes to make the bread, Bays Southern Bread President Kevin Bay explained as he took News 2 on a tour of the facility. Flour is shipped in railcars, and their sugar order comes in 2,000-pound bags, but the operation didnt start out that large. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mom and dad were in Newport, Tennessee, and they were having lunch. Mom had always made bread at home, and dad said, The bread that youre making at home would go well with the Cracker Barrel concept,' Bay recalled. News 2 On Tour | Explore the communities that shape Middle Tennessee Peggy and Charlie Bay lived in Mt. Juliet, and Charlie worked for Kenneth O. Lester Company, a food distributor for Cracker Barrel. The companys higher-ups got him a meeting with Dan Evins, the founder of the Lebanon-based restaurant chain. He took him a couple loaves of bread, Bay explained. They played around with them, called him back a few days later and said, Can you make a couple more loaves? Were going to have a board meeting, and we want to serve at the board meeting.' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And as they say, the rest is history. After three years of testing, Bays Southern Bread went full-time with Cracker Barrel in January 1985. That partnership continues 40 years later. They now have the capacity to bake 22,000 loaves of sourdough bread a day. (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) (Photo courtesy: Bays Southern Bread) The business grew and grew and grew. We grew as Cracker Barrel grew, Bay said. My grandkids are coming into the business now, the fourth generation. Its really rewarding to be around them. Bay decided to move back home to join the family business right from the start. The roots run deep; the sourdough is from an old family recipe and starter that dates back generations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This starter that we use here can be traced back to my great-grandmother, and she passed in the early 60s. She was born in the 1880s, Bay said. This starter has a very distinct taste to it, and its very well liked. Fast growth in Lebanon prompts push for more infrastructure Bays great-grandmother, Ma, is immortalized with a trademarked line of dinner rolls baked by the familys other company, Specialty Breads, LLC. Also located in Lebanon, they make and distribute bread products to school systems, restaurants and grocery stores in the Midwest and southeastern United States. Bay attributes the businesss success and longevity to patience, consistency and a committed team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surrounding yourself with people who have the same desire to do what youre doing and be being OK to fail and learn from it, Bay said. To come to work here, and then to be able to work with Cracker Barrel for the last 40 years, its been rewarding. If you want to try out the bread, for only $2 a piece, you can purchase sourdough, dinner rolls, croutons, and more right from Bays Southern Bread on Hartmann Drive in Lebanon. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. A family called their missing daughters phone, someone else answered The family of a missing mother of four has been trying to locate her for weeks, and they say the search took a strange twist when trying to reach out. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The parents of 27-year-old Jacqueline Conover said she has not been seen since July 23. Channel 2s Tom Jones joined them Thursday as they passed out flyers on Washington Road in East Point, near where she lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police say she was dealing with mental health issues, and she had just gotten out of the hospital and met with Georgia Division of Family and Children Services to get custody of her children. Her family says she disappeared after the state agency said she wasnt well enough to get custody of her children. Cornelius Hexstall, Conovers father, said they were surprised when they called her phone and someone they didnt know answered. He said, My name is Anthony, Im homeless and Im a minister, her father said. Anthony told them he wanted to meet with someone in the family at 12:30 a.m. Hexstall said he weighed whether to go but decided against it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My wife said no, dont go. Dont go. Could be a set up, he said. The man stopped answering after the first call. Lt. Rickie Michaud with East Point Police said it is not known right now if Conover is in danger. Really a lot of unknowns right now, he said. Beverly Conover, her mother, just wants to see her back home. Please come home. I miss you. Please come home, she said. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Authorities are asking for the publics assistance in locating a man who was reported missing from Worcester was last seen on August 9. Kenney Walker is described as being between 57 and 58, weighing 175 to 180 pounds, with black hair, brown eyes, and wearing glasses. He also has a distinctive K mark on his right arm. The brother of the missing man told Boston 25 News that his brother has been missing for eight days and was last seen being discharged from St. Vincents Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also expressed concerns about his brothers well-being, noting that he is schizophrenic and could potentially be a danger to himself or others. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Worcester Police at 508-799-8606 or call 911. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW ENTERPRISE, Ala. (WDHN) The family of a murdered 9th grader from Enterprise is breathing a sigh of relief after they believed justice was served. After Frederick Wilder Jr. was sentenced to 35 years in prison for taking the life of Myquell Smith, who was an athlete and track star in the ninth grade at Enterprise High School, his parents said they are at peace now. Instead of worrying about when the court is coming up or about a date getting postponed, we can now actually go forward, close the door, leave it closed, and keep healing, Smiths mother, Misty Canady, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With input from his father, Michael and mother Misty Canady, Wilder Jr. pled guilty to reckless murder. Instead of going through a trial to hear testimony from witnesses, his mother claims that they were okay with the agreement. Hearing things we werent privy to, Im thankful for that because as a mom I dont think I would be okay hearing it or dirt being thrown on my son, She said. While sitting in a car with friends in the downtown business district near the Boll Weevil statue, Smith was shot and killed. This occurred following an attempt by Smith and a few others to pull a practical joke on a student who lived next door to Wilder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Wilders brother-in-law began pursuing Smith and his departing friends, he got Wilder involved in order to stop the group. If you wanted to pursue him fine, you could have avoided all of this. After all, these were kids, so if it was truly dangerous, call the police, She said. You shouldnt start with a gun. Rather than treating it like another case, Candy says she wants to express her gratitude to the Coffee County District Attorneys Office for their dedication and work ethic over the years. We have never been in this position before. Our emotions were all over the place, and they were understanding, patient, and at the end of the day, they were there for us, She added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canady says she is keeping his spirits alive every day through his nonprofit foundation and track invitationals that pour back into students. Even those who didnt know him then, they at least know what he stands for, Canady 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 WDHN - wdhn.com. BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) Five individuals were celebrated for their achievements as the Raleigh County Family Treatment Court hosted its fourth graduation ceremony. Legislation sparks concern regarding local technical programs The program focuses on keeping families together and helping individuals overcome personal struggles. Supreme Court Justice Haley Bunn has worked extensively with Family Treatment Court, and said the program is a positive force for parents and children alike. It is very important to treat these folks like humans that they are, and to keep in mind that there are children in this situation, she said. Statistics and studies will show you that the best place for a child to be is in a safe, happy, unified family. What this program does is allow safe reunification. Justice Bunn said despite the programs success, there is still a very real need for program funding. She said program leaders are currently looking into grant funding from the West Virginia First Foundation as well as other sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS. MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WRBL) The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is mourning the sudden loss of active-duty K-9 Matyko, who died Tuesday, Aug. 12, after suffering a medical emergency. He was 7 years old. Matyko, a highly trained and decorated member of ALEAs Highway Patrol Division, was being transported to a veterinary hospital in Huntsville by his handler when he passed away. Joining ALEA in 2019, Matyko served in multiple regions of the state beginning in the Gadsden area, later in Montgomery, and most recently in the Decatur/Huntsville area providing critical support to law enforcement operations in northern and central Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matyko was more than a highly trained working dog, he was a trusted partner and valued member of the ALEA family, said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. He not only contributed to countless successful operations, but he also built strong partnerships with local law enforcement agencies in every community he served. Specializing in narcotics detection and interdiction, Matyko played a key role in keeping dangerous drugs and firearms off Alabamas roads. K-9 Matykos commitment and courage were second to none, said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEAs Department of Public Safety. He stood side by side with our Troopers on the front lines, making a real difference in the fight against illegal narcotics. Losing a K-9 partner is devastating, and we honor his service and sacrifice. Matykos passing comes just days after the loss of retired ALEA K-9 Pici, who died Aug. 2 after battling bone cancer. Both leave behind a proud legacy of service and dedication to protecting the people of Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL. A farmer who lives close to Ann Arbor, Michigan, has kept 216 acres of fields, woods, and wet areas safe from builders by setting up a land agreement. According to MLive, Jacob Haas gave the binding land promise to Legacy Land Conservancy for his land on Scio Church Road in Lima Township. This conservation easement prevents anyone from developing the property. When other farmers make these deals, they often get paid, but Haas chose to give it as a gift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The land sits west of Ann Arbor, where builders want to put up new houses. It touches other preserved pieces of land in the area, making a path where deer, birds, and small critters can wander between trees, ponds, and open fields. Such linked nature spaces are hard to find as houses and shops keep going up. "I've spent many years caring for this land, and I want it to remain as it is for future generations," Haas said in a statement. "Protecting it ensures that the farm's legacy and my love of farming will continue to thrive long after I'm gone." The soil on this farm ranks as some of the best for growing crops, according to MLive. The woods and wet spots act like filters for water that runs into Mill Creek before reaching the Huron River, making the water better for folks who live downstream. Susan LaCroix, who handles land deals at Legacy, mentioned that gifts like this show up roughly once every year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As everyone knows, farmers are struggling, and not everyone is able to do that," she told MLive. Diana Kern, Legacy's executive director, added: "This conservation easement reflects our commitment to preserving the natural beauty and cherished working lands of Washtenaw County. By protecting it, we're safeguarding valuable ecosystems and supporting local farmers." Do you own a piece of land with trees or ponds? Chat with a land group in your area about how to keep it wild. You might pay less in taxes while giving local animals a place to live. 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. UK economic growth slowed between April and June compared with the first three months of the year, according to the latest official figures. The economy grew by 0.3%, down from 0.7% from January to March, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. The rate of economic growth matters because it affects things like pay increases for workers and the amount of tax the government can raise to pay for services. What is GDP and how is it worked out? GDP stands for gross domestic product, and is a measure of all the economic activity of companies, governments, and people in a country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the UK, the ONS publishes new GDP figures every month. However, quarterly figures - covering three months at a time - are considered more important. Most economists, politicians, and businesses like to see GDP rising steadily. That's because it usually means people are spending more, extra jobs are created, more tax is paid, and workers get better pay rises. When GDP is falling, it means the economy is shrinking - which can be bad news for businesses and workers. If GDP falls for two quarters in a row, that is known as a recession, which can lead to pay freezes and job losses. What is happening to the UK economy? Many economists and politicians are concerned that the UK economy is not growing fast enough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the Labour government took power in July 2024, it made growth its top priority. The economy had fallen into recession at the end of 2023 but rebounded in the first half of 2024. Since then, growth has been sluggish. Although the economy grew more than expected in the first quarter of 2025, analysts had warned that the disruption and uncertainty caused by the US trade tariffs, which began in April, could limit growth in the later part of the year. But figures for the three months to the end of June painted a more positive picture than experts had expected. Despite the slowdown in growth from 0.7% to 0.3%, experts and the government said this was a welcome surprise as institutions such as the Bank of England had forecast growth of just 0.1% in the most recent three-month period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ONS also revised up the monthly figures for April, saying the economy had shrunk by 0.1% that month rather than their initial figure of a 0.3% contraction. [BBC] In April, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut its forecast for 2025 global growth - and reduced its prediction for the UK from 1.6% to 1.1%. That is close to the 1% forecast that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) - which monitors the government's spending plans and performance made in March. Economic forecasts are not always accurate, but predictions from organisations such as the IMF and OBR are looked at closely. How does GDP affect me? If GDP is going up steadily, people pay more in tax because they're earning and spending more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This means more money for the government, which it can choose to spend on public services, such as schools, police and hospitals. When the economy shrinks and a country goes into recession, these things can go into reverse. Governments tend to get less money in tax, which means they may decide to freeze or cut public spending, or put taxes up. In 2020, the Covid pandemic caused the most severe UK recession for more than 300 years, which forced the government to borrow hundreds of billions of pounds to support the economy. How is GDP measured? GDP can be measured in three ways: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Output: The total value of the goods and services produced by all sectors of the economy - agriculture, manufacturing, energy, construction, the service sector and government Expenditure: The value of goods and services bought by households and by government, investment in machinery and buildings - this also includes the value of exports, minus imports Income: The value of the income generated, mostly in terms of profits and wages In the UK, the ONS publishes one single measure of GDP, which is calculated using all three measurements. But early estimates mainly use the output measure, using data collected from thousands of companies. [Getty Images] Why does the GDP figure sometimes change? The UK produces one of the quickest estimates of GDP of the major economies, about 40 days after the quarter in question. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that stage, only about 60% of the data is available, so the figure is revised as more information comes in. The ONS publishes more information about this on its website. What are the limitations of the GDP figure? GDP doesn't tell the whole story: The hidden economy: unpaid work such as caring for children or elderly relatives isn't captured Inequality: rising GDP could result from the richest getting richer, rather than everyone becoming better off, and some people could be worse off Living standards: if the population is also growing, increased GDP can still mean less money per person, which can reduce people's living standards. This is why the GDP per capita measure is important Official GDP figures don't take into account unpaid work like looking after children [Getty Images] Some critics also argue that GDP doesn't take into account whether the economic growth it measures is sustainable, or the environmental damage it might do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alternative measures have been developed which try to capture this. Since 2010, the ONS has also measured well-being alongside economic growth. This assesses health, relationships, education and skills, as well as people's personal finances and the environment. But despite its limitations, GDP is still the most widely used measure for most government decisions and international comparisons. FBI Atlanta helps return historic missing manuscript to Mexican government On August 13, the FBI returned a stolen manuscript signed by Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes to the government of Mexico. The manuscript, signed on February 20, 1527, outlines the payment of pesos of common gold for expenses related to the discovery of spice lands, providing insight into the planning and preparation for Cortes journey to what became New Spain. Returning the cultural artifact, believed to have been stolen in the 1980s or 1990s, was the result of close collaboration between multiple agencies and the Mexican government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement El Archivo General de la Nacion, Mexicos national archives, originally counted the manuscript among a collection of historical documents hand-signed by Cortes. After microfilming the collection in October 1993, they discovered that 15 pages had gone missing. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] In 2024, the Mexican government requested the FBI Art Crime Teams help in locating page 28 of the collection. With meticulous notes from the Mexican national archive, investigators believed they could track the document through traditional detective work. Open-source research led investigators to believe the missing manuscript was located in the continental United States, eventually narrowing their search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigators worked with FBI Atlanta and the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of New York to find the relevant records and track down the missing artifact. No one will face prosecution for the documents theft because investigators determined that the manuscript changed hands several times over in the decades since its disappearance. The FBI Art Crime Team is still determined to locate and return the other missing pages. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] The FBI is investigating after a sky-high brawl broke out Wednesday morning on a Breeze Airways flight from Virginia to California. Breeze flight MX704, which was headed from Norfolk International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport, diverted to Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado after a passenger onboard "initiated a physical altercation with other guests and flight attendants," the airline told Fox News Digital. Grand Junction Police Department officials told Fox News Digital that an intoxicated male passenger "became agitated," and started "yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Airline staff placed the man in restraints twice, but he was able to break free both times, police said. The passenger, later identified as David Leroy Carter Jr, 46, of Los Angeles, was arrested, FBI Denver told Fox News Digital. Man Arrested With Fully Loaded Ar-15 And Knives Outside Palm Beach Airport Frequented By Trump Read On The Fox News App A Breeze Airways Airbus A220 taxis at Los Angeles International Airport after arriving from Jacksonville on September 19, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. While the airline told Fox News Digital one flight attendant and one guest were evaluated for minor injuries, police said no injuries were reported to law enforcement. When the plane landed, the passenger was taken into custody by the Grand Junction Police Department at the direction of the FBI and remains at the Mesa County Detention Facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is an ongoing investigation and any further information and charges will be released by the Federal Bureau of Investigation," the department wrote in a statement. Terrified Passengers 'Flew Out Of Their Seats' During Dramatic Southwest Nosedive To Avoid Mid-air Crash Breeze Airways is a U.S.-based low-cost airline that was launched in May 2021 by JetBlue founder David Neeleman. The carrier offers nonstop flights to about 70 locations, including smaller airports that would normally require layovers. "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 airline wrote in a statement. Breeze Airways flight 2725 to Fort Myers, Florida taxis to a takeoff runway at the Portland International Jetport on Monday, April 29, 2024. Passengers Removed From Plane, Arrested For Alleged Vodka-induced Drunk And Disruptive Behavior Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breeze offers four different fare options that the company said "reflect our commitment to kindness," including "No Flex," "Nice," "Nicer" and "Nicest." Certain flights start at less than $40 per ticket. Original article source: FBI investigating midair brawl that forced Breeze Airways flight to divert NEW YORK (PIX11) A joint operation between the FBI, the Department of Justice and the New York Police Department resulted in the return of a stolen centuries-old priceless cultural artifact to the government of Mexico, officials announced. The FBI returned a stolen manuscript signed by Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes on Feb. 20, 1527, to the Mexican government in a ceremony on Wednesday. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nearly 500-year-old manuscript outlines the payment of pesos of common gold for expenses in preparation for the discovery of the spice lands, FBI Art Crime Team Special Agent Jessica Dittmer said. It really gives a lot of flavor as to the planning and preparation for uncharted territory back then. The photos above show the front (on left) and back (on right) views of the repatriated manuscript, which the FBI returned to the government of Mexico in a ceremony on August 13, 2025. (Credit: FBI) Authorities believe the document was taken from Mexicos national archives between 1985 and 1993 after an inventory check revealed 15 pages of a Cortes collection had gone missing. Dittmer, who is also embedded in the FBI New Yorks FBI-NYPD Joint Major Theft Task Force, did not name anyone specifically, stating the manuscript changed hands several times over. Due to that fact, no arrests were made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State This is the second time in the last two years the FBI has returned a Cortes document to the Mexican government. In 2023, the FBI returned a 16th-century letter authorizing a purchase of rose sugar. Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Federal authorities are offering a monetary reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individual, or individuals, involved in a mans fatal shooting in Imperial County. Video above by Nexstar Media Wire shows how to report a tip to U.S. Marshals Service The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) San Diego Field Office, which covers both Imperial and San Diego counties, is seeking information about the location of the person or people allegedly involved in the fatal shooting of David Mora Barraza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barraza, then 21, was shot on March 2 shortly before 2:20 a.m., according to authorities. Officers with the Brawley Police Department responded to the shooting near East K Street and South 17th Street. Upon arrival, they found Barraza with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Anyone with information regarding who may have been involved in the shooting of Barraza is urged to contact their local FBI field office, nearest United States embassy or submit a tip online. All information can be submitted anonymously. According to the FBI, individuals who are charged are presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. A stolen 16th-century manuscript signed by the Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes has been found and returned to the Mexican government, the FBI said Thursday. The rare item offers a glimpse into the government of New Spain, which grew to cover a vast stretch of land from modern-day Washington state to Louisiana and Central America. Signed by Cortez on Feb. 20, 1527, the document details payments in pesos of gold for expenses, the FBI said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Special Agent Jessica Dittmer, with the FBIs art crime team, said in a press release that the document "really gives a lot of flavor as to the planning and preparation for unchartered territory back then." "Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexicos history, so this is something that the Mexicans have in their archives for the purpose of understanding history better," she said. The FBI said the missing document was likely stolen between 1985 and October 1993, due to a system of wax numbering used by Mexican archivists. The front of the 1527 letter by Hernan Cortes. (FBI / via AP) There will be no criminal charges connected to the case, Dittmer said, because the document had "changed hands many times over" since it went missing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Cortes signed these papers, he was governor of New Spain, an experienced and wealthy colonist who had spread Spanish control and plenty of violence to the Caribbean and mainland America. The same year saw the formation of New Spains High Court, or Audiencia, and other royal and religious institutions that would play a role in the government of Mexico until the war of independence in 1810. Cortes is more famous, however, for exploring and colonizing the Mayan kingdom in 1519 ignoring orders to stand down from Diego Velazquez de Cuellar, Cuba's governor and soon after conquering the Aztecs and their emperor, Moctezuma. The city of Tenochtitlan was taken and renamed Mexico City in 1521, its temples knocked down and replaced with churches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1506, he took part in the conquests of Hispaniola (modern-day Dominican Republic and Haiti) and Cuba, granting him a large estate and some Indigenous Taino slaves. This is the second Cortes document the FBI has repatriated to Mexico: In July 2023, a letter from the conquistador authorizing the purchase of sugar was found and returned. "We know how important it is for the United States to stay ahead of this, to support our foreign partners, and to try and make an impact as it relates to the trafficking of these artistic works and antiquities," said FBI Supervisory Special Agent Veh Bezdikian, who oversees the FBI-NYPD major theft task force. But the search for several other missing pages from the same collection continues. The FBI is appealing for anyone with information to come forward and contact nyartcrime@fbi.gov or submit a tip to 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or by visiting tips.fbi.gov. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com The FBI has returned a 500-year-old stolen document signed by Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes to Mexico. The manuscript page was penned in 1527 and is one of 15 pages thought to have been swiped from Mexico's national archives between 1985 and 1993, the US investigatory agency said. The page - which describes payments made for supplies for expeditions - was discovered in the US and repatriated on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cortes was an explorer who brought about the end of the Aztec empire and helped pave the way for the Spanish colonisation of the Americas. The manuscript details plans for his journey across what would become New Spain. At its height, the colony stretched across much of western and central North America, and into Latin America. The previously missing document was written after Cortes had been made the governor of New Spain by the Spanish crown. Mexico's national archives had counted the document among a collection of papers signed by Cortes - but found 15 pages were missing when it was put on microfilm in 1993. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recovered page bore a number written in wax that archivists had applied in 1985-1986, suggesting it had been stolen between the two cataloguing periods. The Mexican government requested the assistance of the FBI's art crime team in finding the missing documents in 2024, providing notes on which pages had been taken and how certain pages had been torn. The FBI said open-source research revealed the document was located in the US. The agency did not reveal exactly where the manuscript page was found or who had owned it when it was seized. No one will face prosecution over the theft as the page had "changed hands several times" since it was stolen, according to Special Agent Jessica Dittmer of the FBI's art crime team. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The document "really gives a lot of flavour as to the planning and preparation for uncharted territory back then", she said, outlining "the payment of pesos of common gold for expenses in preparation for discovery of the spice lands". The so-called "spice lands" were areas of eastern and southern Asia. Europeans sought to find a quicker trade route with these areas by sailing west, but in doing so landed on the Americas instead. Cortes would go on to explore north-western Mexico and the Baja California peninsula. The document's repatriation comes at a time of political tension between Mexico and the US over tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and illegal migration across the US-Mexico border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the FBI says that, as one of the largest consumers of antiquities, the US had a responsibility to counter the trafficking of artefacts. Ms Dittmer said: "Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexico's history, so this is something that the Mexicans have in their archives for the purpose of understanding history better." The FBI said it was determined to locate and repatriate the other pages still missing from the collection. Another document signed by Cortes was returned to Mexico by the FBI in 2023. Federal authorities say they've returned a lost page from a 500-year-old manuscript to Mexico, decades after portions of it went missing. Dating back to the 16th century, the document describes an early payment structure established by the Spanish military commander who conquered parts of modern-day Latin America, according to the FBI. "This is an original manuscript page that was actually signed by Hernan Cortes on February 20, 1527," said FBI special agent Jessica Dittmer, a member of the bureau's art crime team, in a statement. The page "outlines the payment of pesos of common gold for expenses in preparation for discovery of the spice lands, so it really gives a lot of flavor as to the planning and preparation for unchartered territory back then," Dittmer said. Cortes was a conquistador known for his takeover of the Aztec empire, which ruled over what is now Mexico, during the early 1500s. He claimed the region for his native Spain, in a conquest that historians say laid the foundation for an ensuing colonial territory called "New Spain," encompassing vast sections of contemporary Mexico, Central America and the United States, in addition to places in the Caribbean and the Pacific. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Dittmer, the manuscript that Cortes signed holds historical significance because it includes a detailed account of the conqueror's journey from Europe to the Americas. From left, the front and back of the 16th-century manuscript recently repatriated to Mexico. / Credit: Federal Bureau of Investigation "Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexico's history, so this is something that the Mexicans have in their archives for the purpose of understanding history better," the agent said. The manuscript was initially repatriated to Mexico and held at the country's national archives, where archivists in 1993 discovered that 15 pages of it had disappeared, the FBI said. Decades later, in 2024, the Mexican government requested assistance from the bureau's art crime team in recovering one specific page from the lost group. Working with authorities in Atlanta and New York, federal investigators eventually found and seized the missing page, from a location within the U.S. that they haven't disclosed. The FBI said that the page was likely stolen from Mexico's national archives at some point between 1985 and 1993, based on the filing system that archivists used in that time frame. Federal officials returned the document to Mexico on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities will not prosecute anyone in connection with the theft because investigators determined that the documents "changed hands several times over" since it went missing, the FBI said. "We know how important it is for the United States to stay ahead of this, to support our foreign partners, and to try and make an impact as it relates to the trafficking of these artistic works and antiquities," said Veh Bezdikian, a supervisory special FBI agent, in a statement. Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? MEXICO CITY (AP) Nearly five centuries after Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes signed it and decades after someone swiped it from Mexico's national archives, the FBI returned a priceless manuscript page to Mexico on Wednesday. The FBI said in a statement that the document had changed hands various times over the years, so no one will be charged. This is an original manuscript page that was actually signed by Hernan Cortes on February 20, 1527, said Special Agent Jessica Dittmer, a member of the FBIs Art Crime Team. By then, Cortes had conquered the Aztec empire in 1521, two years after landing in present-day Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While archivists at Mexicos General Archive of the Nation were microfilming their collection of documents signed by Cortes in 1993, they discovered that 15 pages of the manuscript were missing. They believe it was stolen between 1985 and 1993. Mexico requested the help of the FBIs Art Crime Team last year for this particular page. The FBI eventually narrowed the search to the United States and located the document, though the agency did not say who had it. The New York City Police Department, U.S. Department of Justice and Mexicos government were all involved in the investigation. It is the second Cortes document the FBI has returned to the Mexican government. In 2023, the agency returned a 16th-century letter from Cortes. Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexicos history, so this is something that the Mexicans have in their archives for the purpose of understanding history better, she said. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) As students across San Diego County prepare to head back to school, the FBI San Diego Field Office is issuing a serious reminder: hoax threats are federal crimes with real consequences. In a statement released earlier this week, the agency urged students and parents to understand the dangers and the legal penalties tied to making or sharing false threats against schools or public spaces. Whether real or fake, the FBI takes every threat seriously, putting our full investigative force behind each one, said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the FBI San Diego Field Office. My message to the public, and especially our school-age youth is this: if you make a hoax threat, the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify you and hold you accountable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SDSU named one of Princeton Reviews Best Colleges and among top green campuses Hoax threats even when intended as pranks can trigger full-scale law enforcement responses, disrupt schools and communities, and inflict emotional distress on students, parents, and staff, FBI officials explained. They also waste valuable public resources and may delay responses to real emergencies. The FBI emphasized that the method of delivery doesnt matter. Whether made through social media, text message, email, or even spoken aloud, any threat deemed a hoax will be investigated and could lead to prosecution. According to authorities, heres what you should and shouldnt do: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Never post or share hoax threats ever. Dont forward threats you receive or see online report them to authorities instead. Parents: Talk with your children about the dangers of hoax threats and the importance of responsible online behavior. Understand that sometimes these posts are a cry for attention or an emotional reaction help your child find safer, more constructive outlets. If you see or hear a threat, take action immediately. The FBI says to: Call 911 during emergencies or threats to life. Report criminal activity or threats anonymously: Visit tips.fbi.gov Call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) Contact the FBI San Diego Field Office. Visit the FBI Hoax Threat Awareness Page for more information. As the new school year begins, authorities want to ensure the focus stays on learning, safety, and support not lockdowns and investigations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hoax threats are not a joke, added Special Agent Dargis. Think twice before you post. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. PIKETON Fluor-BWXT announced their support the hard work of local 4-H members by providing add-ons to the sale price of their market animal projects at the county fair. This year, $15,950 was donated in support of more than 80 children of FBP employees in Pike, Scioto, Ross, Jackson, Vinton, Adams and Morgan counties. Pike County had the largest group of FBP 4-H members with 50, followed by Scioto County with 21 children of FBP employees participating. Our local 4-H programs are a great resource for learning about responsibility, developing strong work habits, and gaining pride in a job well done, said Fluor-BWXT President and CEO Greg Wilkett. FBP is happy to support our employees children for all their hard work. Since 2017, Fluor-BWXT has donated more than $115,000 to 4-H members with market projects. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering revoking the authorization of Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine for healthy children younger than 5 years old, a move that would add another barrier for parents who want to vaccinate healthy children ahead of the respiratory virus season. Pfizers three-dose shot for children between 6 months and 5 years old has long been available under an emergency use authorization (EUA). But according to the company, the FDA is weighing ending that authorization. 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, Pfizer told The Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Pfizer expects the FDA to approve its vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 with the same limitations as Moderna and Novavax. The FDA in July approved Modernas shot for children 6 months and older, but only if they have a health condition that puts them at increased risk for severe COVID-19. Novavax has never been approved for children younger than 12. Pfizer has had full FDA approval for its COVID-19 vaccine for individuals age 12 and older since 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not unusual for the FDA to revoke emergency authorization on a product if a competitor gains approval for an alternative, and Pfizer has not yet applied for full approval of its COVID-19 vaccine for the youngest age group. All COVID-19 vaccines were initially available only under emergency use authorizations effectively special permissions given during an emergency if there are no FDA-approved alternatives available. But given the limitation on the Moderna shots, if Pfizers authorization is pulled, healthy children younger than 5 years old will have no official options if their parents want to get them vaccinated. Parents already were struggling. We had parents, even last year, they had to drive two to three hours to get [COVID] vaccines for their kids. So already, access was an issue. Now its just going to be abysmal, said Fatima Khan, co-founder of the group Protect Their Future, which advocates for vaccine access for children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youre abandoning children right now this is something thats so safe and so easy for them to just administer to our kids. Why can we not get it? Khan said. In a statement to The Hill, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) 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. In May, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) would no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children or pregnant women. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Kennedy has expressed personal antipathy toward the Moderna and Pfizer shots, calling them dangerous and unreliable. HHS also just announced it was pulling back from funding research involving the mRNA technology that was used to develop the vaccines in record time. State health officials said they have been told Moderna is ramping up supplies of its vaccine for the fall and will be able to meet demand if Pfizers vaccine is no longer available for the youngest children. Providers who already preordered Pfizer shots for the coming season will likely be able to switch to Moderna. But since the Moderna vaccine is only licensed for kids at risk of severe infection, pediatricians will have to offer them off label for healthy kids with no guarantee it will be covered by insurance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were hopeful that the clinical decisionmaking allows them to request the vaccine and get it and have it covered by insurance. But its just complicated, said Claire Hannan, executive director of the Association of Immunization Managers, which represents state and local officials. The FDA just sort of went outside of the recommendation process in the way that it licensed the Moderna vaccine, and so theres a lot of confusion, and were just sort of waiting for guidance from CDC on the ordering, Hannan said. Infectious disease experts have said, and CDC data show, children younger than age 2 are at risk for severe COVID-19 infection even if they are otherwise healthy. Ayanna Bennett, director of the District of Columbias Department of Health, said healthy kids should be able to live their best lives. If vaccination will keep them from getting seriously ill, it shouldnt be a question, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want kids to not miss two weeks of school. I want kids not to be hospitalized, or in urgent care and miserable. We want them to be able to live their lives when theres no reason why they shouldnt, Bennett told reporters during a briefing Wednesday. If I can prevent something, I should do it, and this is something where we absolutely have prevention 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 The Hill. (The Center Square) A provision of New York's cannabis law that gives priority for pot licenses to in-state applicants is unconstitutional, a federal appeals court has ruled. The U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Division ruled on Wednesday that a portion of the state's social equity program, which excludes individuals with federal or out-of-state pot convictions from receiving priority, likely violates the dormant Commerce Clause by favoring New York residents over those from other states. The dormant clause prevents states from passing laws unfairly, giving their businesses an edge over out-of-state companies. Congress has given New York no clear permission to enforce protectionist marijuana licensing laws ... and New Yorks prioritization of applicants with convictions under New York law is a protectionist measure that cannot stand," the three-judge panel's majority wrote in the 63-page ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by Variscite NY, a California-based company, which said its out-of-state workers with previous criminal convictions were unfairly denied "extra priority" status in New York's pot licensing lottery. The appeals court ruling sends the case back to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, which had denied the plaintiffs request for an injunction. In a dissenting opinion, Chief Judge Debra Ann Livingston sided with the lower court's argument that the Commerce Clause shouldnt apply to the marijuana market because the drug is still illegal under federal law. She said using the clause to New York's social equity licensing regulations undermines Congress and the federal government that wants to "eradicate" the cannabis market. Lawyers for New Yorks Cannabis Control Board and Office of Cannabis Management argued that the licensing scheme doesnt violate the dormant Commerce Clause because its goal was restorative justice, not economic protectionism. But the court's majority said the state "failed to prove that the discriminatory policy was the only way to achieve that goal." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling is yet another blow to New Yorks recreational cannabis program, which lawsuits and other delays have plagued. In June, the state Office of Cannabis Management notified 152 dispensaries that because of an "error" by regulators in calculating the distance from their property lines to schools or houses of worship, they violate state law and face closure or relocation. Gov. Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders have since indicated they intend to update the law to allow the cannabis businesses to continue operating. To date, at least 24 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. territory of Guam have legalized recreational marijuana, to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Thirty-eight states have medical marijuana programs. WASHINGTON At the request of prosecutors, a federal judge appeared ready to dismiss two of the 14 charges alleging Rep. Henry Cuellar and his wife accepted $600,000 in bribes from Azerbaijan and a Mexican bank in a Thursday hearing. While the Laredo Democrat and his wife still face bribery charges stemming from a 2024 indictment, the judge dismissed two charges that Cuellar and his wife were acting as agents of a foreign entity. Cuellar and his wife have denied any wrongdoing. Cuellars legal team is still seeking a dismissal of the entire indictment, arguing the two charges dismissed Thursday cannot be easily excised from the remaining dozen, attorney Eric Reid told The Texas Tribune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge also pushed the trial, slated to start next month, to early next year. The dismissal comes after U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a memo narrowing the enforcement of laws relating to foreign lobbying and bribery. The U.S. Department of Justice indicted Cuellar in 2024 accusing him of accepting payments from an Azerbaijan-run oil-and-gas company laundered through consulting contracts. In exchange for the payments, prosecutors said, Cuellar worked to advance U.S. policy favorable to the Azerbaijan government, including through defense spending legislation and working to kill legislation seen as favorable to Armenian interests. The 11-term congressman was also accused of accepting funds from a commercial Mexican bank while coordinating with a subsidiary of the bank to push through legislation beneficial to the payday-lending industry, a type of high-interest loan primarily targeted at low-income individuals with high rates of default. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also allegedly helped strike down anti-money laundering policies by influencing members of the executive branch. Two of Cuellars political advisors pleaded guilty last year on charges that they conspired to launder $200,000 in bribes from the Mexican bank. Cuellar is facing a tough reelection in the South Texas seat he has held since 2005, with National Republican groups viewing his legal saga as ripe for political attack. Cuellar won reelection by about 5 points in 2024 despite his indictment. 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. The Trump administrations religious and moral carve-outs to an ObamaCare requirement that all employer health plans cover contraception at no cost were blocked on Wednesday by a federal judge. District Judge Wendy Beetlestone in Philadelphia issued a summary judgment that the rules were arbitrary, capricious and an overreach of the authority of the agencies that wrote them in 2017. Under the rules, essentially any for-profit or nonprofit employer or insurer was allowed to exempt themselves from following the birth control mandate on moral and religious grounds. The rules also let publicly traded companies obtain a religious exemption, but not a moral one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Affordable Care Act required employer health plans to cover at least one of 18 forms of birth control approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Religious groups and employers sued, and the Supreme Court in 2014 ruled 5-4 that the contraceptive mandate violated the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) rights of closely held corporations whose owners had religious objections. Subsequent agency actions tried to find a balance, but the Trump administration in 2017 issued a blanket exemption. The rules didnt require employers to apply for an exemption because the administration said that would be a violation of their religious rights. Pennsylvania, New Jersey and dozens of other states sued to halt that broad expansion of exemptions and accommodations. That lawsuit reached the Supreme Court in 2020, where the justices upheld the Trump rules on technical grounds but did not address the underlying merits of the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case was sent back to the lower court, where a religious group, Little Sisters of the Poor, joined the lawsuit alongside the federal government in asking for summary judgment. Beetlestone, an appointee of former President Obama, wrote that the Trump administrations religious rule did not accomplish what the agencies purportedly wrote it to do, which was to resolve a conflict between the contraceptive mandate and RFRA. But the rule exemptions to organizations that are unlikely, if ever, to be capable of maintaining a religious objection, raising further doubts as to any rational connection between the Rule and remedying potential conflicts with RFRA, Beetlestone wrote. The Little Sisters of the Poor will appeal the ruling in the coming weeks, according to the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a nonprofit that represents the order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A federal judge in Maryland struck down the Trump administrations attempts to have the countrys school systems comply with a conservative interpretation of federal anti-discrimination law. Thursdays 76-page ruling from Stephanie Gallagher, a Trump appointee, vacates both a Feb. 14 Education Department letter that asserts that federal law prohibits schools from using race in decisions pertaining to all aspects of education and an ensuing agency demand for schools to certify they would comply with the administrations views. The administration is entitled to express its viewpoints and to promulgate policies aligned with those viewpoints, Gallagher wrote. But it must do so within the procedural bounds Congress has outlined. And it may not do so at the expense of constitutional rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Federal courts had already blocked the administration from enforcing the letter and the certification requirement earlier this year, but Gallaghers latest ruling formally forces the department to reverse course and declares the administration violated the law. While the Department is disappointed in the judges ruling, judicial action enjoining or setting aside this guidance has not stopped our ability to enforce Title VI protections for students at an unprecedented level," an agency spokesperson said in a statement. "The Department remains committed to its responsibility to uphold students anti-discrimination protections under the law. In April, the agency delivered an additional ultimatum to state school systems by prodding them quickly comply with the Trump administrations interpretation of federal anti-discrimination law or risk lawsuits, civil penalties and losing hundreds of millions of dollars in federal aid. Gallagher also said that the departments actions went beyond preventing discrimination it curtailed free speech. One of the plaintiffs, the American Federation of Teachers, argued that their members fear that they must self-censor their speech during their instruction because of the memos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government did not merely remind educators that discrimination is illegal: it initiated a sea change in how the Department of Education regulates educational practices and classroom conduct, causing millions of educators to reasonably fear that their lawful, and even beneficial, speech might cause them or their schools to be punished, she wrote. The law does not countenance the governments hasty and summary treatment of these significant issues. Gallaghers ruling centered on the agencys process, not the substance of its positions. [T]his Court takes no view as to whether the policies at issue in this case are good or bad, prudent or foolish, fair or unfair, she wrote. But, at this stage too, it must closely scrutinize whether the government went about creating and implementing them in the manner the law requires. Here, it did not. And by leapfrogging important procedural requirements, the government has unwittingly run headfirst into serious constitutional problems. This report has been updated to reflect a response from the Education Department. A federal judge on Wednesday declined a request to block an Alabama law that bans diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in public schools and the teaching of what Republican lawmakers dubbed divisive concepts related to race and gender. U.S. District Judge David Proctor wrote that University of Alabama students and professors who filed a lawsuit challenging the law as unconstitutional did not meet the legal burden required for a preliminary injunction, which he called an extraordinary and drastic remedy. The civil lawsuit challenging the statute will go forward, but the law will remain in place while it does. The Alabama measure, which took effect Oct. 1, is part of a wave of proposals from Republican lawmakers across the country taking aim at DEI programs on college campuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Alabama law prohibits public schools from funding or sponsoring any DEI program. It also prohibits schools from requiring students to assent to eight divisive concepts including that fault, blame or bias should be assigned to a race or sex or that any person should acknowledge a sense of guilt, complicity or a need to apologize because of their race, sex or national origin. Six professors and students at the University of Alabama filed a lawsuit arguing that the law violates the First Amendment by placing viewpoint-based restrictions on what educators teach. The lawsuit also said the law unconstitutionally targets Black students because it limits programs that benefit them. Professors said they had altered what they taught in their classes in the wake of the law and the universitys guidance about it. A professor said he reduced coverage of the Black Power movement, the Black Lives Matter movement and the white nationalist movement in the wake of the law. Another said five students had made complaints suggesting that the interdisciplinary honors program she administered had potential conflicts with the new legislation. The university also shuttered designated spaces for the Black Student Union and a resource center for LGBTQ+ students in the wake of the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Proctor wrote that a professors academic freedom does not override a universitys decisions about the content of classroom instruction. Importantly, SB 129 does not banish all teaching or discussion of these concepts from campus or, for that matter, even from the classroom," Proctor wrote. To the contrary, it expressly permits classroom instruction that includes discussion of the listed concepts so long as the instruction is given in an objective manner without endorsement of the concepts. He added that the law appears to give notice about what is a violation. For example, he said a professor could not indoctrinate students to believe that racial health disparities were the fault of one race of people but could still discuss the role of racism in health disparities. If, alternatively, the theory she teaches about is that there is empirical evidence that racism may be a cause for health disparities, or if she frames such teaching as merely a theory, she would not violate SB 129, Proctor wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Will Creeley, legal director of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a nonpartisan First Amendment group, criticized the decision as dangerous and at odds with decades of Supreme Court precedent on academic freedom. Academic freedom protects the search for knowledge and truth from political pressure. Thats the whole point," Creeley wrote in a statement. Faculty are hired to share and hone their expertise in a given field of study, not to read from a government script. The District of Columbia is a special case in American governance. Which is why President Trump has distinctive authority to dispatch federal agents and National Guard troops to patrol the citys streets for at least a month. Its in the Constitution. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power "To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever over such District (not exceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession of particular states, and the Acceptance of Congress, become the Seat of the government of the United States." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats a reference to what would become the District of Columbia. Republicans Ready To Support Trump's Move To Skirt Congress In Dc Crime Crackdown Read On The Fox News App The Founders wanted the home of the federal government somewhat cloistered and protected from local whims and danger. The precursor to the present Congress convened in Philadelphia. But Continental Army soldiers staged what was known as the Pennsylvania Mutiny of 1783, claiming the "Congress of the Confederation" owed them back pay. The incident prompted Alexander Hamilton to suggest that the Congress vacate Philadelphia. It wasnt clear that local authorities could protect the incipient Congress from the mutineers. So they abandoned Philadelphia for Princeton, New Jersey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scarred by what happened in Philadelphia, the Founders etched out a quirky "federal district" which didnt exist in a state. The Founders felt Pennsylvania was lax at guarding the original Congress. So developing their own "capital city" for Congress with the government in control would grant them security. The Trump administration's deployment of federal authorities into the nation's capital reinvigorates an age-old debate over its governance and jurisdiction. The 1st Congress adopted the "Residence Act." It established what became Washington, DC. There was a compromise that the new nation would initiate the seat of government anywhere from what is now Hagerstown, Md., to its present location. But the law gave President George Washington authority to determine the exact location. Washingtons residence was along the Potomac at Mount Vernon. So they carved out a "District of Columbia" from territory which was otherwise part of Maryland and Virginia on opposite sides of the Potomac River. Congress forked over the parcel of land on the "western" shore of the Potomac to Virginia in the 1840s. Stone markers still mark the old District of Columbia boundaries in and around Alexandria, Va. So Congress was in charge of the District of Columbia until 1973. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats when lawmakers approved the Home Rule Act for DC. DC gained a non-voting delegate to the House (similar to those from U.S. territories) a few years earlier. But now Washington, DC would feature a mayor and a city council. But under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, Congress would maintain ultimate authority over the city. The House and Senate presided as a sort of "super city council." Summertime And The Living Is Uneasy On Capitol Hill Lawmakers periodically infused themselves into Washingtons local affairs beginning in the late 1980s and mostly at the behest of Republicans. Congress blocked the legalization of medical marijuana in DC in 1998. The House and Senate also bigfooted a new criminal justice system for the city in 2022. Thats because the local law diminished punishments for serious crimes like carjacking. Republicans won control of the House in 1994 and promptly discussed dialing back home rule for Washington, DC. Republicans made their mark by blocking a needle exchange program for drug abusers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. ratified the 23rd Amendment in 1961. That granted the city three electoral votes. However, Washington lacks a vote on the floor of the House or two votes in the Senate even though its citizens pay federal income taxes, serve in the military and are subject to the draft. Thats why the city festooned license plates with the moniker "Taxation Without Representation" in the 1990s. Democrats have largely championed the plight of DC. A bill to make DC a state failed in 1993, 277-153. However, the House passed a statehood bill for DC in 2020, 232-180. The bill would convert most of the present city into "Douglass Commonwealth," named after abolitionist Frederick Douglass. So the city wouldnt be a state, but a "commonwealth" like Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky and Massachusetts. That bill would chisel out a swath of land, encompassing the Capitol, the White House, the Supreme Court, the National Mall and many federal buildings. Supporters of the legislation argued that this would be the new "seat" of government as prescribed by the Constitution. Schiff Blasts Tinpot Dictator Trumps National Guard Mobilization, Warns Other Cities Are Next Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the measure never got a vote in the GOP-controlled Senate. And statehood is unlikely any time soon for DC. The city is overwhelmingly Democratic. The new state or commonwealth would likely elect a Democratic U.S. Representative and two Democratic senators. Republicans would never abide that as it would tip the balance of power in Congress. Alaska and Hawaii were granted statehood under a compromise, of sorts, in the twilight years of the Eisenhower administration. Note that Alaska and Hawaii entered the union virtually together as part of a compromise. One would be the "Democratic" state. The other would be the "Republican" state. Therefore, the admissions created political balance in Congress. Ironically, Alaska was supposed to be the "Democratic" state and Hawaii the "Republican" state. However, the prevailing politics of both of those states mostly flipped over the years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moreover, its hard to see how any plan for statehood could overcome a Senate filibuster requiring 60 yeas. Thats why some progressives pushed Senate Democratic leaders to abolish the filibuster several years ago. But it was unclear if DC even had the votes to become a state when Democrats controlled a slim Senate majority. Dc Violence Has Grown Far More Deadly, Despite Dems Claiming 30-Year Low So this brings us to present day and President Trumps use of the 1973 Home Rule Act to take over the local police department in Washington. The law says Congress must approve such action within a month. One can bet that the GOP-controlled House and Senate will consider such a measure in September. Prospective passage is always tight in the House because of the narrow majority. However, such a plan is likely subject to a filibuster in the Senate. Most Republicans are eager to follow the lead of President Trump. Moreover, Congressional Republicans would embrace the opportunity to dare Democrats to vote no on a renewal and portray them as opposing order in the streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For his part, the president said he expected Congress to act "very quickly." But Mr. Trump observed that "we can do it without Congress" if he deems it a national emergency. President Trump also characterized the potential for statehood as "ridiculous" and "unacceptable." So this unique political construct for the nations capital is what grants Congress and the president authority over the District of Columbia. Its in the Constitution. And unless Congress blocks him, President Trump can likely administer DC as he sees fit. Original article source: Federal oversight in Washington a special case as old as America itself AGAWAM Longtime owners of The Federal Restaurant and Bar sold the building this week to a family of Pakistani restaurateurs who plan to reopen with their own concept later this year. I can tell you its a great family thats buying it, said Ralph L. Santaniello who, with Michael Presnal, opened The Federal and ran it for 23 years. Its not going to be called the Federal. Its a little bittersweet. The partners closed The Federal in February 2024 and put it on the market in October 2024 with an asking price of $1 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santaniello and Presnal sold the 2-acre property at 135 Cooper St., Agawam, to S& K Food LLC, which has a mailing address in Palmer, for $700,000, according to documents filed Tuesday with the Hampden County Registry of Deeds. The buyers have Roti Boti restaurants in Queens, New York, and in Meriden, Connecticut, said Joe Kelley, co-owner of Kelley and Kratzer Real Estate. Kelley represented Santaniello and Presnal in the transaction. He said Roti Botis owners plan renovations to the former Federal and hope to reopen in the late fall. Roti Boti doesnt sell alcohol, Kelley said. Santaniello and Presnal are in the process of selling The Federals alcohol license for use at another Agawam location, Kelley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They also retain the name The Federal. Santaniello said Thursday theyd at first thought of selling the concept along with the building, but no buyer emerged. And The Federal is their corporate name. There is a possibility they might make use of the name, but there are no definite plans yet. Samuel Converse built it as a home in 1862. The Greek revival mansion became the Federal Hill Club in 1936. Former owners of the Moretti family ran it as a restaurant for more than 50 years until 1996. I always said wed never be there as long as the Morettis, Santaniello said. After 23 years, Santaniello and Presnal knew the 7,715-square-foot restaurant needed a major investment and renovation. They preferred to focus on other restaurants: Posto by The Federal and Lolas, a Mexican restaurant, both in the Longmeadow Shops, and Vinted Wine Bar & Kitchen in West Hartford, Connecticut. Stories by Jim Kinney Read the original article on MassLive. Federal agents were in attendance as Gov. Gavin Newsom took to downtown Los Angeles Thursday to promote his redistricting plan. Newsom, who has proposed changing Californias congressional districts to offset a similar action by Republican-controlled Texas, spoke at the Japanese American National Museum. Just outside in the Little Tokyo area, however, about 100 federal agents gathered, presumably for another immigration raid. Federal agents showed up outside of a Gov. Gavin Newsom press conference on Aug. 14, 2025. (California Governors Office) Newsoms Office took to social media to announce the agents presence using a tone and format often associated with President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED!, the post said. The Los Angeles Police Department warned of traffic impacts in the area as a result. Mayor Karen Bass spoke with reporters shortly after the visit by federal agents, explaining that theres no way this was a coincidence, as the press conference was widely publicized. They decided they were going to come and thumb their nose in front of the governors face, she said. Why would you do that? That is unbelievably disrespectful, its a provocative act. Theyre talking about disorder in Los Angeles, and they are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin disputed that agents were there for Newsom, arguing that CBP patrols all areas of Los Angeles every day with over 40 teams on the ground to make LA safe. Our law enforcement operations are about enforcing the lawnot about Gavin Newsom, she added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. KANSAS CITY, Mo. The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into four Kansas school districts, including three in the Kansas City metro, over gender identity policies that they say violate federal law. The federal education department said in a statement that it started looking into policies at Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools, Olathe Public Schools, Shawnee Mission School District and Topeka Public Schools after receiving an initial 35-page complaint on June 24 from the Defense of Freedom Institute. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach also sent a letter on the same day reiterating the concerns posed by the nonprofit institute. The Defense of Freedom Institute argues in its letter that three of the school districts are in violation of Title IX and claim the districts prioritize gender identity over biological sex by forcing students to share intimate facilities with members of the opposite sex. Our letter informed them this was likely in violation of federal law as well as in violation of the parents constitutional right to control the upbringing of their children, Kobach said Thursday. Teachers and educators should never attempt to stand between parents and their children, and thats what theyre doing right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also suggests that the four districts in question violated the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) with policies that prevent school officials from disclosing a students preferred pronouns or name to their parents without the students consent. I think parents should see some comfort in this that the United States Department of Education is investigating schools in Kansas that are trying to exclude parents. And while theyre off from any conversations school personnel are having about transgenderism and gender identity, Kobach continued. Police find Alabama fugitive on the run after deadly North Kansas City shooting As of Thursday afternoon, Olathe, Shawnee and KCK released a formal statement regarding the investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Olathe said: Olathe Public Schools is obligated to follow all state and federal laws to support our students, staff and families. As a district, it is always our practice to work directly and partner with families and students as situations arise to ensure we are providing the appropriate and necessary support. To be absolutely clear, it is our expectation that staff work directly with families regarding student-related matters involving their own child(ren). There have been no specific situations identified in Olathe Public Schools related to the allegations outlined in the investigation letter. In Olathe Public Schools, we stand ready and are proud to serve all students who attend our schools. That is the foundation and responsibility of all public school systems to serve every child that walks through our doors. Our focus is and will always be educating our students for the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Olathe, the Shawnee Mission School District said: This morning, the Shawnee Mission School District (SMSD) received a letter from the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE), Office for Civil Rights and Student Privacy Policy Office, informing the district that those offices have received a complaint and are initiating an investigation into allegations that SMSDs practices for providing equal access to transgender students violate federal laws. Unlike any other investigation notice letter that the district has received in the past, this letter outlines the USDOEs enforcement options to withhold payments, to issue cease and desist orders, and to sue. The USDOEs Office for Civil Rights (OCR) works to enforce civil rights law by investigating complaints alleging that a school district discriminated against a student or failed to provide equal access to a student. Enforcement of students civil rights is a critical function of the U.S. Department of Education, and the SMSD fully supports this mission. The USDOEs letter states that the Districts practices will be investigated for compliance with Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination and ensures equal access to educational opportunities for all students. Through today, SMSD is not aware of any parent or student filing an OCR complaint alleging that the districts practices for working with transgender students and their families violates Title IX. We of course stand ready to address any concerns from an SMSD family that come forward. The USDOEs Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) works to administer and enforce the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law which protects the privacy of student education records and grants the parents of minor students a right to access education records. This is another critical function of the USDOE, and the district fully supports that mission. Again, the district is not aware of any parent of a transgender student filing a complaint with the SPPO alleging a violation of FERPA. We stand ready to address any parent concerns and are committed to cooperatively working with families of transgender students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a public school district, we are dedicated to serving the needs of each and every student and take our responsibility to respect students civil rights and to provide equal access seriously. Parents/guardians who have concerns about their child in relation to gender identity may contact Shawnee Mission School District administration at any time for support. We also are committed to following the law, and are confident that our practices align with federal and state laws. We look forward to being able to resolve the investigation in an expeditious manner. Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools shared the following statement later on Thursday: Today, the U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights announced an investigation into allegations that our district has adopted policies and procedures that may violate Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). To be clear, Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools does not have a policy or procedure related to the allegations referenced by the Office for Civil Rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our district remains committed to full compliance with all state and federal laws. We are equally committed to ensuring that every student feels safe at school and can focus on learning. The three districts responded to the concerns earlier this summer when Kobach first urged the federal government to investigate. From day one, the Trump Administration promised to protect students and parents by restoring Title IX and parental rights laws to the fullest extent of the law, a statement from U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in part. My offices will vigorously investigate these matters to ensure these practices come to an end. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PUTNAM COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) Authorities said two separate traffic stops that occurred just hours apart earlier this week in Putnam County led to arrests and the discovery of guns and drugs, including fentanyl. According to the Putnam County Sheriffs Office, deputies were conducting traffic enforcement along Interstate 40 on Monday, Aug. 11. Middle Tennessee officials warn about dangers of fentanyl Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement reportedly stopped a Grey Toyota Tacoma for following too closely to another vehicle. Deputies said due to the drivers mannerisms, K9 Tuco was deployed and positively alerted on the vehicle. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of approximately six grams of fentanyl, seven grams of methamphetamine, $3,235 in cash and three firearms, officials said. The driveridentified as Ethan Howardwas charged with manufacture, delivery, sell of fentanyl; manufacture, delivery, sell of methamphetamine, and armed dangerous felonies. He was jailed on a $127,000 bond and is expected to appear in court on Sept. 17. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee Shortly after Howard was stopped, deputies said they conducted another traffic stop this time on a vehicle that failed to maintain its lane. Once again, K9 Tuco was deployed and positively alerted on the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After searching the vehicle, law enforcement seized approximately three ounces of fentanyl, which were allegedly in three separate baggies. The driveridentified as Kristopher Sherrell was arrested and charged with manufacture, delivery, sell of fentanyl. He was jailed on a $51,000 bond and is set to appear in court on Aug. 13. Every ounce we of fentanyl we take off the streets is a potential life saved. These two traffic stops show how important traffic enforcement on our interstates can be, said Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris. My deputies quick actions and K9 Tucos outstanding work stopped a lethal amount of narcotics from hitting our streets. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The sheriffs office said an investigation revealed that both men had traveled to Nashville to pick up the fentanyl and bring it for distribution in Putnam County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional information was immediately released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. A ferry linking Scotland to Europe could be one step closer to reality after a key border obstacle may be resolved. Ferry operator DFDS is planning on launching a service between the town of Rosyth in Fife, Scotland, and Dunkirk in France, as early as spring 2026, allowing for both passengers and freight to be transported between the countries. The route is nicknamed Project Brave, and was first proposed in 2022. If instated, the journey could take up to 20 hours, making it among the longest in Europe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the main barriers to the project was the need for certain goods to be processed at a border control post. Building a new facility at Rosyth was deemed expensive and unnecessary. DFDS proposed using the existing border control post at Grangemouth, in Scotland, instead, however local politicians say a new UK-EU deal could mean that checks at the posts would no longer be needed. In May, prime minister Keir Starmer confirmed a new agreement with the European Union, which means food and drink can be more easily imported and exported by reducing the red tape. Goods are expected to flow more freely as some routine checks on animal and plant products will be removed. Negotiations are ongoing with the EU to determine specific requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scottish MP Graeme Downie said this week that the new deal could bypass the need for border control posts, according to the Dunfermline Press, but temporary use of Grangemouth will be required for the ferry to launch by spring 2026. A regular passenger and freight ferry service from Rosyth to Dunkirk would be an incredible boon for the Dunfermline and Scottish economy, making trade easier as well as making it simpler for people from Europe to visit the kingdom of Fife," he said. These matters can be complex but we have taken a huge stride towards making this ferry service a reality. Secretary of state for Scotland, Ian Murray, has written to Steve Reed, secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs, detailing how the ferry service could launch without the new border control point, the local paper reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He asked that for an urgent amendment to the current model, and thanked Mr Murray for his support in finding a temporary workaround. [The] efforts make it more likely a passenger and freight ferry to Dunkirk could begin as soon as next year, he said. Mr Downie explained to The Independent that the ferry would bring in tens of thousands of tourists to the Kingdom of Fife every year. This part of Scotland has unique attractions with Dunfermline, both Scotland's newest city and ancient capital, the final resting place of Scotland's King's and Queens including Robert the Bruce. The Fife Coastal path is fantastic for walking and cycling holidays taking in historic villages like Culross, part of the Pilgrims Way Walk to St. Andrew's and more recently filming location for shows like Outlander. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A regular ferry to Europe would further establish Fife as major tourist destination, bringing visitors from around the world and supporting local hospitality and tourism businesses. The Independent has contacted DFDS for comment. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Public health officials are increasing efforts to help students meet vaccine requirements before heading back to school. Data from the Ohio Department of Health shows a decline in kindergarteners meeting all vaccine requirements since 2019. That number has dropped about 5% in the last 5 years. According to the CDC, this is a nationwide trend. Columbus Public Health commissioner said these vaccines are essential to a safe school year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pickerington police chief says school board member shouldve been charged with felonies Weve definitely seen a decrease in our vaccine rates across our community over the last few years, which has been concerning, Dr. Mysheika Roberts said. Data from the Ohio Department of Health shows the number of kindergarten-age students meeting the vaccine requirements went from almost 89.9% in the 2019-2020 school year to about 85.4% in 2024-2025. When you think about the fall of 2020, most of our kids are not in the classroom and thus they werent forced to be up-to-date on their vaccines. And I think thats just caused a trickle effect over the last few years, Roberts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberts said this is why they are hosting additional vaccination clinics in partnership with Columbus City Schools and Nationwide Childrens Hospitals. CPH said over the last two Saturdays, they vaccinated about 500 children. What we heard from families over the weekend, the last two weekends were how appreciative they were that we made a service like this available on a weekend so they didnt have to take off work, Roberts said. According to the CDC, Ohio is also one of 36 states where vaccine exceptions exceed 5%. Roberts cautions parents to remember the citys measles outbreak in 2022, saying almost all of the cases were unvaccinated. Think about the 85 measles cases we had that could have been one of your children. And if you get your child vaccinated, we could avoid something like that, not only for your child, but for our community, Roberts said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Columbus Public Health holds immunization clinics at their Parsons Avenue location: Monday: 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Thursday: 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. They also hold clinics the first Wednesday of every month at Worthington United Methodist church from 1 p.m. to 4 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. AUSTIN (KXAN) A triple homicide, allegedly committed at random, rocked Austin Monday afternoon. The aftershocks of the tragedy continued for family and friends of the victims a Target employee, a grandfather, and a four-year-old child died in a North Austin parking lot. Austin Police released the names and photos of the deceased Tuesday. But those close to one of the victims told KXAN that APD got one of those names wrong. I was in control: Police documents detail triple homicide outside Austin shopping center Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Dang, who was engaged to the Target employee, told KXAN Wednesday night that her fiancee had started to transition her gender in 2022. She said her fiancee had used a chosen name for several years: Rosa Machuca. She didnt fully begin to come out until after she came out to me, some of her family members and friends, and then solely over time, she became confident in being called Rosa, Dang said. Early into 2023 thats when she started like, to able to dress more confidently as a trans woman, and started to want to be recognized in Target as a trans woman. KXAN also confirmed this Wednesday afternoon from a former co-worker of Machuca, Faith Garcia. She said that Machuca had this smile when she told Garcia about her new name. She was always so helpful and kind with everyone at work, even the guests, Garcia said. The very least we can do is call her by her name and make sure everyone else does, regardless of her legal name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Garcia, Machuca had been promoted to shift lead. KXAN reached out to Target on Wednesday afternoon to seek additional confirmation and a statement about Machucas death. We have not heard back. Sunshine of my life Dang said she and Machuca had been in an 11-year relationship since high school. They decided to get engaged last November after they saw very cute rings. We decided that we wanted to be engaged on the spot. In Rosas words, she always knew she wanted to be married to me ever since we started dating, Dang said. [I was] the one who wanted both our families to know about us getting married, so kind of like at least we would try to take baby steps in that process. According to Dang, Machuca came out to her while attending UT Austin. She aspired to be a journalist, Dang said, and had a high school internship with PBS in Washington, D.C. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She really wanted to pursue that. But with her familys struggles at the time, she had to kind of make a decision to help with her family instead, Dang said. I feel like my greatest honor was to be loved by her because she was, she was literally like the sunshine of my life she was able to bring positivity into my life that I never thought I knew. Kim Dang, Rosa Machucas fiancee Machuca dropped out of UT Austin after a semester and began working at Target, which helped her feel comfortable in her transition, Dang explained. I guess it was kind of like a bittersweet way for her to start feeling comfortable with her being known as Rosa she was just kind of like juggling the idea of it. But when she worked at Target I think thats when she slowly felt comfortable to be known as Rosa, she said. For me to see this person being so wonderful and being bright about everything she loves Im so honored to be her partner/fiancee, because I get to be that part of her life. According to Dang, Machucas family supported her transition. KXAN has offered to interview Machucas family when they are ready. APD acknowledges Rosas name In a social media post around 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, they acknowledged that she was known as Rosa. The post also used her legal name, which is referred to by the transgender community as deadnaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has come to the attention of the Austin Police Department that Machuca was known to many in their community as Rosa. In the interest of respecting all who knew and loved them, including their immediate family, we believe it is important to honor and acknowledge them as they lived their life, APD said. Dang said she was very hurt by seeing the use of Machucas deadname by APD, in the media and online fundraisers. I knew she never wanted to be recognized as her deadname. I never wanted them to be remembered as their deadname. I want them to be remembered for who they really, truly want to be, she said. After a person dies, official documents must use a persons legal name. That identification goes to the media; without other sources telling reporters otherwise, newsrooms will follow an official source. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dang noted that Machuca wanted to change her official documents, but had been afraid to do so because of the political climate around transition. With the world going on right now, its a bit of a scary place in Texas, so she was kind of scared to legally change her name at the time. So I think she was just kind of waiting for the right moment to get her drivers license and then legally change her name to make it official, Dang said. However, since a 2024 change in Texas Department of Public Safety policy, Texans cannot use a court order to change their name and gender marker on state-issued identification. This was codified in 2025 by the Texas legislature, banning Machuca and other transgender Texans from making such changes. 2017 | Man found guilty of killing transgender woman in 2016 gets 20 years Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2016, Austin City Council approved a resolution intended to overhaul how APD handles the identification of transgender victims. It limits the use of a victims name in some instances, but law enforcement is still required to use a victims legal name in court documents. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Donald Trump made a mistake in agreeing to meet with Vladimir Putin alone, his former top Russia adviser has warned. Fiona Hill, who served on the national security council during Mr Trumps first term, said without his own advisers Putin will be better placed to lure the US president into a trap. Putin will lure you in in a moment, she said. He likes to do the two guys chatting routine, but what hes really doing is making you complicit in all kinds of things he wants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US president is meeting with his Russian counterpart for a high-stakes summit at an Alaskan military base on Friday. He intends to speak to Putin one-on-one as part of a listening exercise, Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, announced on Tuesday. But Ms Hill who is one of few people both to have worked for Mr Trump and dined with Putin said the set-up leaves the US president vulnerable to manipulation. Having counselled Trump ahead of a joint press conference with Putin at the Helsinki Summit in 2018, few are more acutely aware of the pitfalls of preparing the president for a diplomatic summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He kept saying, get away, I can do this myself, recalled Ms Hill, who said the presidents dismissive attitude and flapping hand gestures reminded her of her own daughter a young child at the time. He was convinced that if he sat down with Putin, hed sort things out, man to man, without the encumbrance of any pesky analysts or aides. In the end, the meeting went so badly that Ms Hill said she contemplated faking a seizure to shut it down. Donald Trump met with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki in July 2018 - Kevin Lamarque/Reuters Going into Fridays meeting, she advised Mr Trump to keep his guard up and take a translator with him, lest he fall for the former KGB operatives linguistic tricks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump doesnt speak a lick of Russian, she said. The issue there is that Putin is always going to be one step ahead, because Putins English is certainly good enough to follow. You really need to be paying attention to this guy, how he holds himself when he says things, because he plays all these body language tricks as well. When world leaders speak behind closed doors, they conventionally bring their own interpreters. Steve Witkoff, Mr Trumps special envoy broke with convention in May when he relied on Russian translators during three high-level meetings with Putin, running the risk that some of the nuance in the Russian leaders comments was lost in translation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Hill warned that without a fluent Russian speaker in the room, the president risks being secretly mocked by his counterpart. He does make fun of Trump. He uses the Russian language in a way that can be quite sarcastic and ironic. Its totally lost in translation. I would have someone there telling (Trump) what this guy is saying and how hes saying it. Ms Hill, a British Kremlin watcher and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, said solo negotiations will limit what progress can be made on a ceasefire deal as Trump isnt going to have total recall. Who knows what will have been discussed. Only Putin will probably have a good idea, she said. His team of people, theyll be sure to have someone taking notes. Thats what the Russian interpreters do, they take notes at the same time. Fiona Hill and Putin in 2010 Mr Trump returned to the White House with a promise to end the war in Ukraine on day one of his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But eight months later, repeated attempts to drag Russia to the negotiating table by Mr Witkoff have yielded little progress. After consecutive talks with Mr Witkoff failed to bear fruit, Ms Hill believes Mr Trump has now decided he needs to see this through himself. From Trumps perspective, hes the special sauce, the missing factor I think he thinks if he sits down with Putin one-on-one, he can sort something out, she said. He just thinks he can game it when he gets there, because he thinks hes very clever, and that he always has the upper hand, and things always work out well. Ms Hill fears Mr Trump may have overestimated his ability to get through to the Russian strongman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He doesnt get Putin. He thinks he does, but he says it all the time, he doesnt get why Putin wants to slaughter so many people. Putins prepared to do that, so thats your problem, she said. He has this brutality, which for Trump is unfathomable. Putin wants to reset relations with Trump While Mr Trump has said he is not happy with Putin in the lead up to the summit, she predicted the Russian leader will seek to flatter his counterpart in a bid to stave off further US intervention. If Putin wants the upper hand to just keep hammering the Ukrainians into submission, hell probably get it, she said. Hell want to reset the relationship with Trump so that Trumps not going off supporting Ukraine, and hell want to put all the blame back on Ukraine and everyone else for a lack of success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that Putin is playing for time until Ukraine crumbles and capitulates along the front lines and the territories hes already declared are Russias. Part of the issue, Ms Hill said, is that Mr Trump has relinquished his bargaining power by repeatedly forestalling robust sanctions and weakening Europes posture of solidarity with Ukraine. Despite introducing 25 per cent tariffs on India, a major importer of Russian oil, the figure marks a climbdown from Mr Trumps initial proposal of 100 per cent secondary sanctions and a drop in the ocean compared to the 500 per cent tariffs against Russia and its allies mooted by Republican Russia hawks within his party. Russia could be forced to negotiate if Trump were really willing to sanction Russia and Putin and to take action to really fully support Ukraine, but hes not, said Ms Hill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wary of making predictions about the outcome of the Alaska talks, Ms Hill said there is a chance Mr Trump could nudge [talks] along in a positive direction. Whatever the outcome, she is clear that the fate of Ukrainians will not be at the forefront of the presidents mind. Trump is not the Ukrainians plenipotentiary. Trump is Trump, and hes negotiating some sort of deal for a piece of property, which is Ukraine, she said. People are talking about peace in Ukraine, but hes really talking about doing something with pieces of Ukraine. 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. COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -A fire broke out onboard a Maersk container vessel off the coast of Liberia on Wednesday and the crew was still battling to put out the flames a day later, the Danish shipping group said on Thursday. "The crew of the Marie Maersk detected smoke coming from containers onboard the vessel en route from Rotterdam, The Netherlands to Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia," Maersk said. The crew was safe while it attempted to keep the situation under control. Two tugboats with firefighting equipment reached the ship late on Wednesday, Maersk said. (Reporting by Jacob Gronholt-Pedersen, writing by Essi Lehto, editing by Terje Solsvik) A brush fire in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park in Montecito Heights was limited to just 1 acre on Wednesday, though a firefighter was hurt in the battle. Using ground crews and helicopter water drops, the Los Angeles Fire Department contained the fire to just an acre, despite oppressive heat, sporadic wind and fire involving heavy brush in near vertical terrain, fire officials said in a news alert. The battle took about 40 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the first firefighters to the scene, however, is now being medically examined and treated for apparent heat exhaustion, the LAFD said. No one else was hurt, and no structures were damaged. The following roads are closed as mop-up operations continue: Northbound 110 Parkway offramp at Avenue 52 Griffin Avenue / Avenue 52 between Montecito Drive and the 110 Parkway The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. (COLORADO) This summer has brought its fair share of extreme weather, with tornadoes and wildfire conditions making headlines. But a recent video from Portugal shows a rare and striking combination of both: a fire tornado. The footage, captured amid fiery conditions in Portugal, reveals a rapidly spinning column of air within an active fire. This phenomenon, while visually crazy, is meteorologically sound and not unheard of in parts of the United States either. A fire tornado forms when intense heat at ground level, often from a wildfire, causes hot air to rise rapidly. If this rising column encounters turbulent or converging winds, the air can begin to spin. The tighter and faster the air stretches upward, the more it resembles a tornado. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Using a familiar analogy, an ice skater pulling in their arms while spinning begins to rotate faster. The same principle applies here, where the hot air contracts and spins into a narrow, skinny vortex-looking tube of air. Thats why the fire tornado seen in Portugal appeared so skinny and fast-moving. While this video is grabbing international attention, fire tornadoes arent unique to Europe. On July 15, a fire tornado was reported in La Sal, Utah, near the Colorado border. It developed during the Deer Creek Wildfire and was rated an EF2, which indicates significant strength. Photos from the scene show scorched trees and swirling damage patterns, a clear sign of both wind and fire at work. Courtesy: National Weather Service Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The National Museum of American History is closed until further notice due to a fire that broke out on Thursday morning. DC Fire and EMS (DCFD) responded to the museum in the 1300 block of Constitution Avenue NW shortly before 10:30 a.m., where crews said a bank of batteries was on fire in a below-grade area. Visitors and staff were evacuated, the power was cut and the fire was out by 11:15 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Navy Yard Juvenile Curfew extending through weekend (X/@dcfireems) (X/@dcfireems) (X/@dcfireems) (X/@dcfireems) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DCFD noted that the batteries involved in the fire were not lithium-ion. Crews were working to ventilate smoke into the late morning and early afternoon. It was not clear when the museum would reopen to the public. No injuries were reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. (Reuters) -A fire at a Lukoil oil refinery in Russia's Volgograd region has been extinguished, local authorities said on Thursday evening. Earlier, officials said the blaze was triggered by debris from a Ukrainian drone. Ukraine's military said its drones struck the refinery overnight, causing large fires at a facility it claimed was supplying Russian forces. Russia's defence ministry said air defence systems had intercepted and destroyed 44 Ukrainian drones overnight, including nine over Volgograd region. (Reporting by Maxim Rodionov; Editing by Kirsten Donovan) Two former Market Basket executives who were fired last month are now banned from all stores and company property by a court order. A Middlesex County Superior Court judge issued an injunction against Tom Gordon and Joseph Schmidt Thursday morning, WCVB-TV reported. The company filed a complaint against the two men on Monday after they visited 25 stores in three states, as well as the corporate headquarters in Tewksbury, between Aug. 4 and 9, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gordon and Schmidt were suspended in May, along with CEO Arthur T. Demoulas, when the Market Basket board claimed Demoulas had been considering or preparing to lead an employee work stoppage, and were asked to stay away from company property. The CEO responded by quickly denying the boards claims, calling it a facade for a hostile takeover of the grocery store chain. Schmidt and Gordon also told news outlets at the time that they expected to soon lose their jobs. In July, during the suspension, the two men visited Market Basket stores on two occasions, they admitted in court documents, in order to give well-wishes to retiring employees. Attorneys for Gordon and Schmidt wrote in a response to the companys complaint against them that they did not believe these visits went against the request to stay away from stores, as they were purely personal. When they were fired on July 22, their termination letters did not contain any instructions to stay away from stores, their attorneys wrote, so they believed they were free to visit their decades-long colleagues as private citizens. During their visits to stores last week, they were always welcomed by a store manager, assistant manager or both, and were never instructed to leave or to not come back, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Company lawyers, however, wrote in their request for a restraining order against the two former executives that they had been instructed multiple times that they were not to enter any Market Basket property. In addition, Schmidt was caught on video entering the corporate offices through a side door on Thursday, Aug. 7, according to court documents. He has also been asked to hand over any keys to company property that he still has in his possession. Gordon and Schmidts attorneys claimed in their response to the complaint that the company was wrongly accusing them of attempting to instill fear among employees. At least one current employee was so fearful of Tom Gordon that she hugged him during his recent visit to see her, they wrote. Another employee told Joe Schmidt that she would say a prayer for him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Demoulas has previously said that his and other executives suspensions are an attempt at a hostile takeover of the company, and Gordon and Schmidt have claimed that the takeover is being orchestrated by the CEOs three sisters, MassLive previously reported. The two men told WCVB that they would respect the court ruling. Mediation between Demoulas and the Market Basket board is scheduled for Sept. 3. The latest from MassLive Read the original article on MassLive. Firefighters collect school tools to support students in need The Charlotte Fire Department opened all of its stations Thursday so you can drop off your donations during our 9 School Tools campaign. Charlotte Fire houses are open 24/7 to serve the community, which means they are collecting school tools 24/7. >>Click here to learn more about donating. There are 41 fire houses with bins inside. All you have to do ring the bell to donate. In the video at the top of this webpage, Channel 9s Elsa Gillis speaks with two firefighters who know how life-changing a new pack of pencils can be. VIDEO: Initiative encourages reading at young age Light winds fanned a brush fire in Highland Park on Wednesday afternoon, and one firefighter was injured responding to the blaze in the summer heat. The fire burned an acre of dense brush just after 12:30 p.m. in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. There was no immediate threat to any nearby homes and no calls for any evacuations. LAFD asked the California Highway Patrol to close the northbound exit to the 110 at Avenue 52 and for bus services to avoid Montecito Drive. The fire burned for approximately 40 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Helicopters circled over the park and dropped water on the dry brush as a smoky haze descended over the area. A firefighter was injured, according to LAFD spokesperson Brian Humphrey. They were examined and treated for apparent heat exhaustion. Hand crews remained on the scene to clear up any hotspots from the fire. The cause remains under investigation. The forecast shows that the area will see light south-southwest winds at 4 mph and gusting at 10 mph, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Bryan Lewis. Temperatures are expected to remain around the mid to high 80s and will drop heading into Thursday, according to the forecast. 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. Stripe has apologised after staff wrongly said it would no longer process the payments of LGBTQ+ related content or goods. The firm, which millions of global businesses rely on for their online transactions, has come under fire for being one of several payment processors to not allow itself to be used for purchases of adult content online. But when some called to complain, they were told the ban in fact extended to all LGBTQ+ content - including material which wasn't adult or explicit in nature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The information given by our support team was totally wrong," a Stripe spokesperson told the BBC. "Stripe has no prohibitions on the sale of LGBTQ+ content or goods. "We're looking into this and making sure future inquiries are answered correctly." Stripe has not wanted to be associated with adult content for several years. But on Wednesday, reports emerged on social media that some staff working for Stripe had told customers the sale of LGBTQ+ content in its entirety would not be allowed either. In one widely-shared clip, a worker tells a caller the ban has been in place for around a month - before later backtracking and stating content is only banned when it is "abusive". Adult backlash Stripe's policies are in the spotlight after payment processors, including Visa and Mastercard, faced pressure from an Australian campaign group to play their part in stopping online video game distributors selling certain pornographic games. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to the firms' bosses, it claimed games were listed for sale online which included themes of "rape, incest and child sexual abuse". Soon after the letter was published, online game distributors Steam and itch.io removed games from their libraries and made others unavailable in searches - leading to a backlash from frustrated gamers. Steam also updated its terms and conditions for sellers to add developers should not publish "content that may violate the rules and standards set forth by Steam's payment processors and related card networks and banks, or internet network providers". It also said games should not contain "certain kinds of adult only content". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the move has come as a shock to gamers, it is not unusual for payment processors to distance themselves from adult content online. In 2020, Mastercard and Visa ended the use of their cards on Pornhub after a New York Times investigation accused the site of being "infested" with child abuse videos. Pornhub denied the claims. [BBC] Sign up for our Tech Decoded newsletter to follow the world's top tech stories and trends. Outside the UK? Sign up here. A dog owner has started bringing his German shepherd to work in his role as a railway safeguarding lead. Stephen O'Callaghan, from Sheffield, has been taking six-year-old Nya on the Transpennine Express (TPE) route network since Pets As Therapy certified her as a therapy animal last year. "There are so many benefits she brings she can increase people's mood, help with feelings of isolation, and decrease feelings of stress," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She's helped me out in the past, and I just wanted to roll that out to help as many people as possible." Mr O'Callaghan, who is also the crime prevention lead for the operator, spent three months registering Nya with Pets As Therapy (PAT). She is now a "key part of the customer service pack" according to TPE. Mr O'Callaghan said he was "proud" TPE had become the first train operator with its own therapy dog, and hoped other rail companies would do the same. "We know the rail environment can be stressful for some people, particularly those who are vulnerable," he added. Stephen O'Callaghan and Nya with a woman who had been suffering with anxiety [Transpennine Express] "One woman said she was having a really difficult day and was suffering quite badly with anxiety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She said [Nya] made a real difference, broke that negative chain of thoughts and improved her mood. She was besotted with her." PAT's animals help improve the health and wellbeing of thousands of people in communities across the UK, the charity said. Volunteers take their certified animals to settings like care homes, hospices and prisons, in the same way Mr O'Callaghan brings Nya to work. "Nya loves it - she absolutely loves being fussed, so she's in her element," he added. "And it's always a benefit that some owners have dog biscuits on them." He described it as a "heart-warming initiative" which "genuinely puts smiles on people's faces". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North More on this story Related internet links An Arkansas State Police patrol car. (Courtesy of Arkansas State Police) Five inmates at a Monroe County jail have been arrested in connection with the death of another inmate who was being held on charges of possessing child sexual abuse material. Terry Craig, 44, of Clarendon was found injured in his cell on Aug. 8, shortly after he was booked into the Monroe County Detention Center, according to an Arkansas State Police press release. Craig had been arrested on charges of possession of child sexual abuse materials and possession of a firearm by certain persons. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Tuesday, State Police special agents served arrest warrants on Monroe County jail inmates Gregory Otis, 38; Typaris Johnson, 26; Antonio Aldridge, 31; Reko Branscomb, 28; and Carmello Hawkins, 18. Each is charged with first-degree murder, first-degree battery, and engaging in violent criminal group activity, according to State Police. They remain in custody, each on a $3 million bond, and their first court appearance is set for Tuesday. The injured Craig was taken to Baptist Health Medical Center in Stuttgart, where he was pronounced dead about 10 p.m. last Friday, State Police reported. His body was taken to the State Crime Lab to determine the cause and manner of death. Monroe County Sheriff Michael Neal had requested assistance from ASPs Criminal Investigation Division. U.S. Congressional District maps are displayed as the Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting meets at the Texas State Capitol on August 6, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Credit - Brandon BellGetty Images President Donald Trump has thrust the country into a new political battle: mutually assured gerrymandering. And the antidote is what we call mutually assured representation. The current saga began in June, when Trump called for Texas to start a congressional redistricting process in the middle of the decaderather than after the next census in 2030. Last month, Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott called a special legislative session to replace the states current House map which would favor his party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Trump's push for mid-decade redistricting in Republican-controlled states appears likely to spread to Missouri, Ohio, and Florida. If this happens, Democrats would have retaliate in the states they control in order to have a chance at winning a majority of the seats in the House of Representatives in 2026. In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has declared her readiness to fight fire with fire. In California, Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed holding a special election in November for voters to approve a ballot initiative allowing the legislature to redraw the state's congressional map. Read More: Time to Stand Down: Newsom Gives Trump Deadline to Call Off Redistricting Plan In Texas, Republicans are claiming that they are entitled to five more congressional seatseven if they receive the exact same number of votes as before. To achieve this, they can redraw the boundaries of the districts that Democrats won in 2024, moving Democratic voters into heavily Republican districts where their votes will not matter, and moving Republican voters into previously Democratic districts so that they can win these seats. In 2024, Republicans in Texas won 25 of the states 38 seats, and Democrats won 13. With this new map, Republicans could win in 30 of 38 congressional districts. The proposed gerrymander is likely to give Republicans four or five new seats even if Democrats win substantially more votes for Congress than they did in 2025. According to our calculation, this will happen even if there is a five percentage point swing towards Democrats in the 2026 elections. In recent years, just a few congressional seats have determined control of the House, and a flip of just five seats on its own might determine the national result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Partisan gerrymandering makes it harder for voters to hold their representatives accountable. Congressional district elections become uncompetitive. With reelection in the general assured, candidates are focused on catering to their own party base, which tends to be a more extreme subset of their constituents. Through this process, partisan gerrymandering often reduces effective representation in Congress and can play a role in crowding out moderate and independent voters. But heres a twist: President Trumps new wave of extreme gerrymandering may actually backfire, paving the way for electoral reform. Partisan gerrymandering is unpopular with voters, as weve seen repeatedly in recent years. Voters in states such as Michigan, Arizona, Colorado, and New Jersey, have supported nonpartisan redistricting commissions. In 2021, Democrats tried and failed to pass the For the People Act, a bill that would have limited partisan gerrymandering nationwide and implemented non-partisan redistricting commissions in every state. But Republican senators blocked the bill. Gerrymandering reform often fails because only one party makes the necessary reforms. For instance, previous successful anti-gerrymandering measures in states like California and New York created fairer maps in each statebut actually cost the party in power (Democrats in both instances) more seats than the margin determining control of the House in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One proposed solution is bipartisan redistricting commissions. These can fail when the parties cannot agree on a map. For instance, the Virginia commission deadlocked in 2022, leaving the courts to draw the maps. Then there are more radical solutions that effectively blow up the current electoral system as we know it, such as multi-member districts or aproportional representation. But we think it is unrealistic to get rid of a system that has been in place for two hundred and fifty years. Instead, we believe it is possible to make reforms that keep the current electoral system while also overcoming some of its flaws. Weve developed a process-based solution that has a number of appealing properties. Its inspired by the problem parents face when dividing a cake between two children. How can they make sure everyone gets an equal slice? One child cuts the cake in two, and the other child chooses between the two pieces. Our approach, which we call the Define-Combine Procedure, splits the map drawing process into two simple stages. First, one party divides the state into twice the number of needed districtsfor example, 20 sub-districts for a state that needs 10 congressional seats. Then, the second party pairs those sub-districts into the final 10 districts. The result is a fairer map than either party would have drawn on its own. Instead of mutually assured gerrymandering, this approach leads to mutually assured representation. Read More: Gerrymandering Isnt NewBut Now We Have a Solution We used real-world census and election data from 2020 in each state to forecast the results of extreme partisan gerrymandering and the Define-Combine Procedure in every state. In Texas, Republicans could draw a map where they won 30 of 38 congressional seats. If Democrats could unilaterally gerrymander Texas, they could create a map with 28 Democratic and 10 Republican seats. Depending on party control of redistricting in Texas, a whopping 20 seats could change hands. When we used the Define-Combine Procedure, the resulting map would produce 19 Republicans seats and 17 Democratic seats, with the two remaining seats changing hands depending on which party defines and which combines. This result comes much closer to the 53% of the two-party vote that Republicans won in 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scaling nationwide, we estimate that extreme gerrymandering could determine which party holds almost 200 seats, out of the 435 seats in the House. Processes like ours could reduce the advantage that a party can earn just from drawing a map, with outcomes that are less biased and closer to proportional. The trick here is to use the impulse to score more seats for your party as a tool for fairness instead. Its a partisan solution for a partisan problem. One party alone cannot protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Thats why, in 1965, Democrats and Republicans came together to pass the Voting Rights Actand why they continued to amend and renew it for the next 40 years. But, a series of Supreme Court decisions over the last 12 years have substantially weakened the Voting Rights Act and allowed states to engage in extreme partisan gerrymandering. Now, a case before the court next year is likely to further diminish its remaining provisions. Instead of settling for mutually assured gerrymandering, with less effective representation, reduced accountability, and uncompetitive elections, both parties should unite behind solutions that achieve fairer outcomes nationwide. Such an outcome seems unrealistic right now as tit-for-tat gerrymandering ramps up, but the moment when the dust settles and voters take stock of the damage done may well be the best opportunity to address the scourge of partisan gerrymandering. If we dont seize this opportunity, America will pay the price. Contact us at letters@time.com. MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW) Two Medina firefighters were injured while battling an overnight house fire. Shortly after midnight on Wednesday, crews responded to a home in Montville Township where flames could be seen shooting from the homes roof. Stimulus check 2025? What to know Credit: Medina Fire Department Credit: Medina Fire Department Credit: Medina Fire Department Credit: Medina Fire Department According to a press release, the residents were able to make it out safely before firefighters arrived. However, two Medina firefighters sustained injuries in separate incidents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kids injured in bus crash on first day of school Both were taken to the hospital. Officials said the injuries are non-life-threatening and reported both firefighters were in good condition. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. A Breeze Airways flight headed to Los Angeles diverted to an airport in Colorado after an unruly passenger waving a skateboard got into an altercation with flight attendants and other passengers and twice broke free of his restraints, according to the airline and local authorities. Breeze Airways Flight 704, which took off from Norfolk, Virginia, at 9:17 a.m. Wednesday, landed in Grand Junction, Colorado. The Grand Junction Police Department said in a statement it responded to the airport there about 11:15 a.m. local time after receiving a report that an "intoxicated male passenger became agitated, yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard. Airline staff placed the man in restraints twice, but he was able to break free both times." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The airline, citing reports from crew who were on board the flight, said there was a physical altercation that resulted in minor injuries to one passengers and a flight attendant. KJCT - PHOTO: Passengers disembark after a Breeze Airways flight diverted to Grand Junction, Colorado, on Aug. 13, 2025. MORE: What to know about the uncertain future of Spirit Airlines: 3 things that could impact travelers However, the police said no reports of assault or injuries to passengers or the flight crew were made to the law enforcement. After the plane landed in Colorado, the passenger was taken into custody by Grand Junction police at the direction of the FBI and taken to the Mesa County Detention Facility. Airlines have reported more than 1,000 incidents involving unruly passengers so far in 2025, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. NEED TO KNOW A flight heading to Los Angeles from Virginia was forced to divert to Colorado this week due to an "unruly passenger" Police allege the Breeze Airways passenger, who was arrested, was "intoxicated" and was "yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard" The FBI identified the suspect as 46-year-old David Leroy Carter Jr of Los Angeles in a statement obtained by PEOPLE A Breeze Airways flight heading to Los Angeles from Virginia had to be diverted this week due to an "intoxicated" and "unruly passenger" onboard, according to reports. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, at approximately 11:15 a.m. local time, "officers with the Grand Junction Police Department responded to the Grand Junction Airport, located at 2828 Walker Field Drive, to assist with an unruly passenger," per a police Facebook post, which was shared alongside a photo of a Breeze Airways plane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Breeze Airways Flight MX704 took off from Norfolk International Airport in Virginia at 9:17 a.m. and was traveling to Los Angeles International Airport, per ABC News. However, according to the flight tracking site, Flightradar24, it ended up being diverted to Grand Junction in Colorado. Matt May/Bloomberg via Getty A stock photo of a Breeze Airways plane A stock photo of a Breeze Airways plane Police said, "Officers learned that an intoxicated male passenger became agitated, yelling racist slurs at airline staff while waving a skateboard," according to the Facebook post. "Airline staff placed the man in restraints twice, but he was able to break free both times. At no time did the suspect physically assault anyone, and no injuries were reported," police added. The post continued, "Upon landing, the passenger was taken into custody by the Grand Junction Police Department at the direction of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FBI's Denver Field Office identified the suspect as David Leroy Carter Jr, 46, of Los Angeles, in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. Matt May/Bloomberg via Getty A stock photo of a Breeze Airways plane A stock photo of a Breeze Airways plane Breeze Airways told in a statement to PEOPLE that the flight diverted "after a male passenger became physically and verbally threatening to the crew and other guests. The plane was met promptly by local law enforcement officers, who restrained and removed the passenger from the aircraft." One flight attendant and one guest were evaluated for minor injuries. 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," an airline representative told NBC News. The flight departed Grand Junction at approximately 6:15 p.m. MT and arrived in LAX at 7:15 p.m. PT, Breeze confirmed PEOPLE. 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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there have been 1,007 unruly passenger reports made in the U.S. in 2025 as of yet. The number has gradually decreased since reaching a high of 5,973 reports made in 2021. The Grand Junction Police Department and the U.S. Attorneys Office for Colorado did not immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information. Read the original article on People Flight restrictions are being put in place in Alaska ahead of President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin's scheduled meeting Friday to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine at a remote U.S. military base. North American Aerospace Defense Command issued a statement saying it would be enforcing Federal Aviation Administration flight restrictions over Anchorage, Alaska, "in support of the presidential summit." A White House official confirmed to Military.com on Thursday that the meeting would be taking place at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, an Army and Air Force installation that supports F-22 Raptor units and traces its roots back to the Cold War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read Next: Watchdog Finds 50% Increase in VA Medical Center Jobs with 'Severe' Shortages Flight restrictions ahead of presidential events are routine, but the meeting in Alaska with Putin is especially noteworthy as NORAD frequently detects and tracks Russian military aircraft flying near U.S. airspace. Just weeks ago, on July 22, NORAD spotted multiple Russian aircraft in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone -- an area between U.S. and Canadian airspace, a news release at the time detailed. Capt. Rebecca Garand, a NORAD spokesperson, told CBS News that the incursion included two fighter jets and two bombers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NORAD issued press releases in April, as well as multiple notices in February and late January, about similar instances of Russian aircraft making their way into the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone. NORAD has also been keeping a close eye stateside when Trump travels. Earlier this year, the command had to scramble F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets on several occasions to intercept civilian airplanes over Trump's residence in Palm Beach, Florida, Military.com previously reported. NORAD said pilots must follow the proper protocol within the temporary flight restriction area put in place over Anchorage on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If required, NORAD fighter aircraft will respond to aircraft not following proper procedures within the [temporary flight restriction area], a scenario we encourage all pilots to avoid," the command warned in the news release. Putin's visit to the Alaskan military base marks the first time the Russian leader has been on U.S. soil in 10 years. The last time the Russian leader was stateside was for an address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Notably, the White House began downplaying expectations for the meeting earlier this week and said a second meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would likely be necessary to resolve the ongoing violence. "I think this is a listening exercise for the president," White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters Tuesday. "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, again, a more firm and better understanding of how we can, hopefully, bring this war to an end." Related: Trump and Putin Will Meet at an Alaska Military Base Long Used to Counter Russia Gov. Ron DeSantis administration is planning to open the states second immigration detention center at an empty state prison in North Florida as a federal judge weighs a legal challenge seeking to shut down the first, the Alligator Alcatraz facility in the Everglades. The new center at the Baker Correctional Institution near Lake City will hold more than 1,300 detainees in support of President Donald Trumps immigration agenda, DeSantis said Thursday. State officials have dubbed the new facility the Deportation Depot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida is making a difference, DeSantis said. This is a priority for the people of our state. Its a priority for the people of this country. State officials pressed Alligator Alcatraz into service in a matter of days earlier this summer, defying opposition from local officials, environmentalists and immigrants rights advocates. DeSantis didnt give an opening date for the states latest venture, but officials said it could be ready for detainees in as soon as two weeks. The Florida Department of Corrections closed the Baker Correctional Institution in 2021 as part of a consolidation plan. DeSantis considered opening a second immigration detention facility at Camp Blanding, a Florida National Guard training site southwest of Jacksonville, but he said the Baker Correctional Institution was deemed to be a better choice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would have cost up to $100 million to open a detention center at Camp Blanding, compared with only $6 million for the Baker facility, said Kevin Guthrie, the states emergency management chief. Environmental concerns could halt construction at Floridas Alligator Alcatraz immigration jail Last week, a federal judge ordered a 14-day halt on construction at the South Florida immigration detention center opened in early July at a lightly used airfield in the Everglades. The temporary order stopped short of shutting down operations. Environmental groups and a Native American tribe sued over the facility, arguing it did not undergo the proper reviews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detainees at the North Florida center will be housed in existing dormitories surrounded by a 12-foot chain-link fence with razor wire, Guthrie said. He estimated itll take about two weeks to ready the facility, which will be retrofitted with external cooling units to provide air conditioning. Temporary dorms could bring the capacity to 2,000. The facility will meet state and federal standards, and detainees will have access to three meals a day, medical services, laundry, indoor and outdoor recreation, and legal and religious services, Guthrie said. Descriptions from detainees, their families and attorneys of conditions at the South Florida detention center, though, have differed from the governments. Advocates have called the facility unlivable, describing cage-like holding cells, unsanitary conditions and inadequate food and medical services. The American Civil Liberties Union sued, alleging detainees werent being given access to lawyers. State and federal officials have defended the conditions, saying the facility meets all required standards. DeSantis dismissed the detainees concerns in an interview with reporters Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They are not entitled to toasted hoagies, Im sorry, DeSantis said. This idiocy that I hear some of these liberal representatives: Oh, are they allowed to go up to the buffet for seconds? Im like, Thats what youre complaining about. About 1,000 detainees are being held at the South Florida facility, which is designed to eventually hold up to 3,000 people, state officials said. Its estimated to cost about $450 million a year to operate 5,000 immigration detention center beds in Florida, according to figures provided by the Department of Homeland Security. State officials will be able to recoup their costs from the federal government, Guthrie said. Gov. Ron DeSantis administration is planning to open a second immigration detention center at an empty state prison in North Florida as a federal judge weighs a legal challenge seeking to shut down the Alligator Alcatraz facility in the Everglades. The new center at the Baker Correctional Institution near Lake City will hold more than 1,300 detainees in support of President Donald Trumps immigration agenda, DeSantis said Thursday. State officials have dubbed the new facility the Deportation Depot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida is making a difference, DeSantis said. This is a priority for the people of our state. Its a priority for the people of this country. The Florida Department of Corrections closed the Baker Correctional Institution in 2021 as part of a consolidation plan. DeSantis considered opening a second immigration detention facility at Camp Blanding, a Florida National Guard training site southwest of Jacksonville, but he said the Baker Correctional Institution was deemed to be a better choice. It would have cost up to $100 million to open a detention center at Camp Blanding, compared with only $6 million for the Baker facility, said Kevin Guthrie, the states emergency management chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, a federal judge ordered a 14-day halt on construction at the South Florida immigration detention center opened in early July at a lightly used airfield in the Everglades. The temporary order stopped short of shutting down operations. Environmental groups and a Native American tribe sued over the facility, arguing it did not undergo the proper reviews. Detainees at the North Florida center will be housed in existing dormitories surrounded by a 12-foot chain-link fence with razor wire, Guthrie said. He estimated itll take about two weeks to ready the facility, which will be retrofitted with external cooling units to provide air conditioning. Temporary dorms could bring the capacity to 2,000. The facility will meet state and federal standards, and detainees will have access to three meals a day, medical services, laundry, indoor and outdoor recreation, and legal and religious services, Guthrie said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Descriptions from detainees, their families and attorneys of conditions at the South Florida detention center, though, have differed from the governments. Advocates called the facility unlivable, describing cage-like holding cells, unsanitary conditions and inadequate food and medical services. The American Civil Liberties Union sued, alleging detainees werent being given access to lawyers. State and federal officials have defended the conditions, saying the facility meets all required standards. DeSantis dismissed the detainees concerns in an interview with reporters Thursday. They are not entitled to toasted hoagies, Im sorry, DeSantis said. This idiocy that I hear some of these liberal representatives: Oh, are they allowed to go up to the buffet for seconds? Im like, Thats what youre complaining about.' About 1,000 detainees are being held at the South Florida facility, which is designed to eventually hold up to 3,000 people, state officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its estimated to cost about $450 million a year to operate 5,000 immigration detention center beds in Florida, according to figures provided by the Department of Homeland Security. State officials will be able to recoup their costs from the federal government, Guthrie said. _____ (NewsNation) The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved rules for highly regulated black bear hunting Wednesday, paving the way for the states first hunt since 2015 despite rampant opposition. Under the new rules, 187 bear hunting permits will be distributed through a lottery system. Eligible hunters can apply and pay the $5 entrance fee as many times as they want. Each permitted hunter would be allowed to kill one bear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Injured owl rescued on Highway 1 in Santa Cruz area If selected, hunters from the Sunshine State will pay $100, while out-of-state hunters will owe $300 to participate. The hunt is scheduled for December. Wildlife advocates oppose Florida black bear hunt Members of the FWC on Wednesday unanimously voted in favor of the hunting plan, which had already been preliminarily approved back in May. The commission contends that hunting allows it to start managing population growth rates for the Bear Management Units, or BMUs, with the largest bear subpopulations, and describes hunting as an effective tool for handling Floridas habitats. Colorado wild rabbits hornlike growths linked to virus Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But wildlife advocates point to the practice as cruel, with many attendees at the vote voicing disapproval of the proposal. Humane World of Animals Florida State Director Kate MacFall told NewsNation local affiliate WMBB that the day of the vote was the most discouraging and disheartening and really disappointing since shes worked alongside the commission. There was very little consideration of the public input, and the cruelty factor honestly wasnt even brought up in the whole deliberation, MacFall 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. HAVANA, Fla. (WMBB) The proposed bear hunt in 2025 became a reality today. Hundreds of Floridians showed up at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commissions quarterly meeting in Havana, Florida on Wednesday, both for and against the hunt. What you need to know for the upcoming black bear hunt proposals final ruling An overwhelming number of attendees voiced their disapproval of the bear hunt proposal, but commissioners still voted to approve every aspect of the hunt, anyway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If anybody has any other comments, anybody? No? So theres a motion and a second on the table. Im going to call the question all those in favor say, Aye, FWC Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto said. Aye, aye, aye, FWC commissioners responded. Okay, So it passes unanimously. All right. Okay got it? Is anybody surprised?, Barreto asked. With those words, FWC Commission Chairman Rodney Barreto, cemented that Floridas first black bear hunt in nearly a decade will take place in December, he then asked if anybody is surprised. I think this was the most discouraging and disheartening and really disappointing day in my 15 years of working with the FWC. There was very little consideration of the public input and the cruelty factor honestly wasnt even brought up in the whole deliberation, Humane World of Animals Florida State Director Kate MacFall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And while many were disappointed, to answer Barretos question, the final ruling didnt come as a surprise for many. Some groups were already prepared to take legal action against Wednesdays outcome. Attorney Raquel Levy announced plans to file a lawsuit on-behalf of Bear Warriors United. She and the organizations founder, Katrina Shadix, say they feel confident in their case against the FWC. The hunt is the result of the growing number of bear and human encounters. In December, commissioners recommended staff look for options for a black bear hunt in 2025. Although on Wednesday, Barreto attempted to deny that request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt direct staff to go do a bear hunt. You came to us with this opportunity correct?, Barreto asked staff. Dogs, Baiting, Spectators, Oh My! What does a 2025 Florida bear hunt look like? Over the course of collecting public feedback and data the bear hunt proposal was amended several times to include hunting with dogs, allowing spectators, baiting bears over feed stations, and more. These amendments caused the most controversy at the May quarterly meeting FWC staff say those amendments support a regulated and conservative hunt, and allow hunters to make better judgment calls and avoid the killing of cubs, or females with cubs, which occurred during the last hunt in 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many attendees agreed with all aspects of the proposal, including commissioners from Gulf and Franklin counties, and Sheriffs officials from Liberty County. Many supporters were wearing hunter orange. But not all of them. I think dogs and baiting are both great hunting mechanisms in this case for bears. If you want to have the most effective bear hunt, you want to be very selective about what youre killing. But we want to be selective. We as hunters, we want to make sure theres a population of bears for years to come so were able to continue this hunt, All Florida Executive Director Travis Thompson said. Opponents failed to convince the commission to drop the use of dogs and baiting aspects of the hunt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ill go ahead and put it on the floor to move final adoption of the rule, FWC Commissioner Gary Lester initially motioned. News13 will break down the logistics of the coming bear hunting season on News13 at 10 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 mypanhandle.com. HAVANA, Fla. (WMBB) Earlier Wednesday, we told you about the mixed reactions to the approval of a Florida black bear hunt. But many are still questioning the logistics. How the Florida Black Bear hunt became a reality and the stark contrast of responses The previous quota we reported, capped at 187 bears, hasnt changed throughout the proposal process. In terms of the large group of hunters hoping to snag a permit, theyll have to try their luck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Only 187 permits will be distributed through a lottery, although the plan allows for any eligible person to apply as many times as they want. To submit an application, there is a $5 fee, but some hunters voiced concerns about the wealthy being able to skew their odds. Those selected will eventually have to pay $100 if they are Florida residents, and 300 for out-of-state hunters. No more than ten percent of permits will be awarded to out-of-state residents. However, the plan includes room for regular permit hunters to have a plus one. And permit hunters with dogs can have up to 9 guests with them, on Wednesday, FWC staff said. This is so they can share their experiences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 187 bear quota will be spread over 31 counties, divided into designated hunting zones. For the East Panhandle zone, which includes Franklin County, 68 bears can be harvested. The rules are one bear per permit holder. There wont be check stations this year, which many members of the public voiced concerns over at Wednesdays meeting. Instead, FWC staff said they will rely on technology to communicate and collect data during the hunt. That being said, the FWC must be notified within 24 hours of the harvest for the bears to be tagged and transported. The 2025 hunting season will run from December 6-28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the proposal that the commissioners approved set up the framework for annual hunting seasons. Future season timings and lengths would be selected on a yearly basis and could run anytime between October 1st to December 31st. News 13 has previously discussed the controversial hunting methods in the proposal, such as hunting with dogs. How the Florida Black Bear hunt became a reality and the stark contrast of responses It should be noted that the implementation of the use of dogs was pushed back to 2027. Staff said it was to allow time for the proper training and for hunters to get the proper equipment, like the GPS collars that dogs must have. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal also includes the Private Lands Bear Hunt program, scheduled to start in 2026. To learn more about the Private Lands Bear Hunt Program and many other aspects of the approved proposal, click here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. A federal judge has struck a blow against Floridas book bans, ruling that part of a DeSantis-backed law used to sweep classics and modern novels off school shelves is so vague that its unconstitutional. U.S. District Judge Carlos Mendoza of the Middle District of Florida focused on the portion of the law that prevents books that "describes sexual conduct" in his Aug. 13 order, saying it's "unclear what the statute actually prohibits" and to what detail of sexual conduct is prohibited. The statute (HB 1069) was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2023, and it's been used to remove thousands of books from Florida's school library shelves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mendoza drew concern with classical literature and more modern works such as "The Handmaid's Tale," among 23 books removed from Orange County and Volusia County schools. More: It's famous and among the most-removed books in Florida school districts. What is it? To defend book removals, DeSantis and state officials have pointed to "government speech," a legal doctrine that the government has the right to promote its own views without being required to provide equal time or a platform for opposing views. Mendoza disagreed. "A blanket content-based prohibition on materials, rather than one based on individualized curation, hardly expresses any intentional government message at all," he said. "Slapping the label of government speech on book removals only serves to stifle the disfavored viewpoints." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge's order is a win for Penguin Random House and five other publishers, the Authors Guild, two parents and authors Julia Alvarez, John Green, Angie Thomas, Laurie Halse Anderson and Jodi Picoult. Green is famous for his books "Looking for Alaska" and "Paper Towns," both of which were mentioned in the order. Penguin Random House is "elated" that the federal judge upheld First Amendment protections for students, educators, authors and publishers, and that books may only be removed if they lack "serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value" when considered, said Dan Novack, vice president and associate general counsel of Penguin Random House. "This is a sweeping victory for the right to read, and for every students freedom to think, learn, and explore ideas," Novack said in a statement. Jason Muehlhoff, representing members of the State Board of Education in this case, called this order a "bad decision." Muehlhoff is the chief deputy solicitor general in Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier's office. "We plan to appeal, and we plan to win," he added. Summer 2025: Book removals and pronouns under scrutiny Even though the law was passed two years ago, HB 1069 has been the talk of many of Florida's federal courtrooms this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge's order does not cast down all of the law, which restricts teachers from using preferred pronouns in schools outside their assigned sex at birth and expedites a process for people to object to reading materials and books in schools. The law brought outrage amongst the LGBTQ+ advocates who criticize state officials of limiting LGBTQ+ themes in schools, by restricting preferred pronoun usage and by often removing books with these topics from libraries. The same day as Mendoza's order calling one portion of this law unconstitutional, another federal judge in Florida agreed that the law discriminated based on sex. More: Federal judge: Florida discriminated against transgender teacher based on sex Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Books in schools will continue to be reviewed by media specialists once parents object to their local school boards, since neither court case strikes down this capability. However, the state has recently moved to streamline this process by placing pressure on school districts for speedier removals. This summer, Hillsborough County superintendent Van Ayres has been under fire by state officials for "pornographic" books in its school libraries. Last week, state Education Commissioner Anastasios "Stasi" Kamoutsas reprimanded Ayres on social media for a transgender memoir in its district's media centers. Throughout the summer, Hillsborough County was repeatedly under the spotlight by state officials for housing books the state drew issue with, often citing "inappropriate content." After Ayres was scolded by the State Board of Education, multiple school districts removed the same books in fear of retaliation. Pending First Amendment and book removal litigation Penguin Random House is also pending litigation on another case with PEN America against the Escambia County School Board. Mid-July, a federal appeals court dismissed an appeal for a district court order, where school board members were seeking "legislative privilege" in their book ban lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Penguin Random House and PEN America, a top free speech group, filed a lawsuit alongside parents and authors in federal court May 2023, alleging these book bans were unconstitutional. One book, "And Tango Makes Three," was named in this lawsuit, and it also became central to a lawsuit filed June 2023 by its authors against a Lake County school district. The book is based on the story of two male penguins raising a chick named Tango at the Central Park Zoo. This case was initially filed in the Middle District of Florida and was later moved to the Northern District of Florida. It is still pending. 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: Judge strikes down part of DeSantis-backed book ban law in Florida Some 2.2 million Floridians could lose health coverage if the Republican-controlled Congress fails to extend tax credits these working families receive before the end of the year a loss business leaders call a potentially devastating impact on the state. A coalition called Florida Conservatives for Affordable Care began sounding the alarm during a roundtable Aug. 13, a block from the Florida Capitol. The group is notable because it includes organizations usually allied with the GOP, which has long fought the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in this state and in Congress. Coalition leaders, though, say these tax credits have helped millions gain affordable insurance, some for the first time. Losing it will rock the states economy, they warn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an issue that is right around the corner, said Brewster Bevis, president and CEO of Associated Industries of Florida, which represents some of the states largest corporations. This fire is lit. It may not be a burning dumpster fire yet. But in 2026 if this goes away, youre going to be dealing with a lot of very dissatisfied and upset constituents who have no access to health care. Florida's ACA enrollment is highest in nation Floridas enrollment in the ACA, long dubbed Obamacare, is by far the highest in the nation. About 4.7 million Floridians receive health insurance through the ACA marketplace, with close to half of them paying lower-cost premiums because of the tax credits currently in place. But if these enhanced premium tax credits go away, costs will rise and many now covered are expected to drop health insurance. The coalition reported that for a family of four earning $64,000 a year, annual premiums could go up $2,571 without the credits; for a 60-year-old couple, earning $82,800-a-year, annual premiums would sky $19,212. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If they are not able to access health insurance coverage, they will be forced to rely on the emergency department (in hospitals) as the most expensive point of entry to the health care system, said Mary Mayhew, president and CEO of the Florida Hospital Association. She said, Its irrational to expect individuals to afford, the kind of cost increases that can be expected without the credits. The cost of extending tax credits The Congressional Budget Office estimates that permanently extending the enhanced premium tax credits would cost $370 billion over the next 10 years. Along with AIF and the hospital association, other organizations represented in the coalition are the Florida Association of Community Health Centers and the Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coalition is planning more events around the state to urge Congress to extend the tax credits. Leaders said those bearing the brunt of the health coverage loss could be small businesses and those self-employed, who rely on the marketplace for insurance. While usually supportive of GOP policies and candidates, those involved in the coalition are now trying to get conservative lawmakers to promote an underlying part of Obamacare: The health care marketplace. Twenty of Floridas 28 members of the U.S. House are Republican, along with both U.S. senators. All have shown unswerving adherence to President Trump and his policy wishes. Trump, for years, has sought unsuccessfully to repeal Obamacare. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Concerns since Trump Day 1... With Florida leading the nation in Obamacare enrollment, GOP changes could hit state hard Medicaid also to be lost... Millions will lose Medicaid under Trump's tax law. Here's the final tally. Republicans in Congress so far have shown no interest in extending the enhanced premium tax credits. Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill Act, passed by Congress and signed into law July 4, imposes more restrictions on the ACA marketplace and cuts Medicaid coverage for millions of Americans at the end of 2026. Mayhew, formerly Floridas Medicaid chief under Gov. Ron DeSantis, said the tax credits should be backed by Republicans because they track the partys guiding principles and rely on coverage through private insurers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans need to look at the federal marketplace as absolutely embodying their philosophy supporting small businesses, supporting individuals who work, supporting economic mobility, she said. John Kennedy is a reporter in the USA TODAY Networks Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jkennedy2@gannett.com, or on X at @JKennedyReport. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida businesses caution GOP on fallout from ending ACA subsidies Hurricane Helene swirls toward Florida. In its aftermath, the Legislature passed a law tying the hands of local government when it comes to development and slipped it into a measure that looked like help for hurricane victims. (Satellite image via NOAA) Like a lot of you, Im a sucker for movies about scrappy underdogs who somehow thrash their way to triumph. The Bad News Bears, The Replacements, even Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story are films I can watch over and over. So imagine how excited I am to tell you about all the scrappy underdog stories that are going on in Florida right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All over the state, local governments are pushing ahead on common-sense changes to their growth plans, wetlands protection, and impact fees. Theyre doing so despite warnings from big, bad opponents that what they have in mind will violate a new pro-developer state law that limits city and county governments authority on new land-use or development regulations. Its happening in big counties like Orange and small cities like Edgewater. And everywhere its happening, its bad news for Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Legislature, because it shows that local governments are tired of being pushed around by developers and their toadies and are ready to push back. Manatee County Commission Chairman George Kruse via Manatee County This is one of those tipping points, Manatee County Commission Chairman George Kruse told me. As my colleague Mitch Perry reported last week, the law theyre challenging has become the most controversial new measure of the 2025 legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People are now realizing what this law really demonstrates: Tallahassee is tightly controlled by campaign donors who dont care about whats best for Floridas people, only what boosts their private profits, Kruse said. Thats why they wanted to handcuff the local officials who might object. The bill was passed on the pretext of providing emergency help for hurricane victims. But it contained a poison pill benefiting no one but big developers. Kim Dinkins via 1000 Friends Its important to realize that this was described as an emergency bill that goes far beyond an emergency to actually attack the basis of democracy, said Kim Dinkins, planning and policy director for the smart growth group 1000 Friends of Florida. It allows a popular vote to be overturned. With so many people lining up to resist, Im thinking we should change our state song from Old Folks at Home (yawn!) to the far more appropriate Fight the Power by the Isley Brothers. 180 degrees from smart This was supposed to be the year for our fine Legislature to pass laws promoting Floridas rural renaissance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, this new law is being used as a steamroller to flatten advocates of protecting rural areas from runaway development. Nick DiCeglie via DiCeglie campaign The law was originally known as Senate Bill 180, as in 180 Degrees from Smart Growth. It was sponsored by Sen. Nick DiCeglie of Indian Rocks Beach. Most of the bill talks about helping victims of Helene and Milton, last years one-two punch of destructive hurricanes fueled by that thing that the governor and Legislature are scared well talk about. But it also contains a section that says no local government is allowed to pass any new local land-use or development regulations that could be considered more restrictive or burdensome than what was already on the books. And that part isnt tied to any emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law covers every part of the state, not just the ones clobbered by the two storms. Even worse, it starts retroactively from August 2024 and stretches on to October 2027. And if another hurricane hits, then the no-regulation time clock starts all over again. It also says anyone not just affected parties can serve a local government with notification of intent to sue if they think the local government has violated the law. The local government then has 14 days to correct any problem. If it refuses, the lawsuit can proceed. SB 180 didnt come out of nowhere. It grew out of similar legislation passed in early 2023, a few months after Hurricane Ian slammed into the Southwest Florida coast and killed 149 people, making it one of the deadliest hurricanes to hit the U.S. in the past 20 years. Sen. Jonathan Martin via his website When the Legislature met in special session the following February, Sen. Jonathan Martin of Fort Myers, sponsored a bill that said local officials in the area hit by Ian could not impose any new development rules deemed more restrictive or burdensome than what was already on the books. Sound familiar? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During debate, one member of the Florida House, Bob Rommel, applauded that section of the bill and added, There is nothing more important than protecting private property rights. Oh yes, thats MUCH more important than saving peoples lives. Martins bill passed the Legislature and was signed into law by DeSantis, who never says no to whatever developers want. It covered a 100-square mile radius affected by Ian. Also, it was set to expire in 2024. Rep. Jason Shoaf via Florida House of Representatives Months later, though, the Big Bend area was ripped apart by Hurricane Idalia. So, during a special session in November 2023, a new bill, sponsored by Rep. Jason Shoaf of Port St. Joe, extended the ban on any commonsense regulation changes on development through 2026. Worse, it expanded the area affected to list 10 specific counties that had to wear the Legislatures handcuffs: Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, and Sarasota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But those were all just warm-ups for SB 180 and its attempt to halt any new regulations on destructive development. Susan Trevarthen via the Weiss Serota law firm website Susan Trevarthen, a Fort Lauderdale attorney, remembers reading through all the bills that passed in the final rush of the session and when she got to SB 180, she recalls thinking, Wait, this cant be right. When she read it again, she realized what it meant: Everyone in the whole state of Florida just lost all their zoning power for the next three years. If local governments dont object to this, she told me, they will lose the power to object to anything else. Now shes gathering city and county government clients from across the state to file suit to overturn the law as unconstitutional. Orange you angry about this? Think Im exaggerating about the danger this poses? Look at whats happened with Orange County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The county spent eight years refining its plan for future growth, taking comments from all sides as it proceeded. What they finally came up with, called Vision 2050, was so popular, 73% of all voters said yes to its rural boundary in November. And then the DeSantis administration said no way, forget it. All because of SB 180. The Florida Department of Commerce cited the language of the statute, signed into law last month by the governor, as a reason for declaring Vision 2050 to be null and void ab initio a phrase meaning the 615-page document was deemed invalid from the outset, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Apparently DeSantis prefers Vision 1950, from back when nothing restricted Florida developers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, after the DeSantis administration slammed them from above, Orange County commissioners got attacked from beneath, too. The Texas-based developer behind a piece of sprawl with a particularly ridiculous name, the 2,000-home Sustanee project, filed suit against Orange County seeking to overturn its growth plan and citing SB 180 as its legal justification. After hearing from a crowd of about 50 fired-up people, the commissioners announced that they planned to stick to their guns. Theyre joining the group thats suing to overturn the law. Commissioner Kelly Semrad via UCF SB 180 is giving special interests a veto power over what the voters decided, Orange County Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad told me. Essentially its a crap shoot for developers who can say, Oh, I dont like that, its too burdensome so Ill sue you over it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Or consider whats happened to Deltona, over in Volusia County. Flooding has become so bad there that the city council was considering a moratorium on further development until it could get a better handle on how to fix its stormwater woes. A developer sent the council a letter threatening to sue under SB 180 if the city voted for the moratorium. City officials voted to go ahead with the moratorium anyway. Commissioner Dori Howington via Deltona website This bill was about helping people rebuild from the hurricanes, Deltona Commissioner Dori Howington told me. But this [development] has nothing to do with the hurricane. The city hasnt raised its development impact fees in a decade, she said, but now theyre being told that raising the fees would also violate SB 180. What were seeing is that any land-use ordinance change we want to put in place, it violates SB 180, Howington said. The developers knew this law was coming, she said, adding, They were waiting for it. The billionaire who benefits When I talked to Kruse, the Manatee County commission chairman started off with a good-humored brag: Were both the catalyst and the cause of this. The poison part of SB 180 has been widely blamed on Pat Neal, a former legislator whos built 25,000 homes in Florida, most of them in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Hes now a billionaire, according to Forbes. (Semrad also cites a couple of Central Florida developers.) Like Deltona, the Manatee County Commission was alarmed by flooding from last years hurricanes, so it has been considering a development moratorium while they figure out how to build subdivisions and other projects that will drain better. Neal has been one of the more vocal opponents of a moratorium. The commissioners who were in office until recently would have kneeled to Neals wishes. After all, they were so pro-development that, in 2023, they trashed the countys wetlands protection rules. But that was such an unpopular move that last year the voters tossed out all but one of the incumbents. The voters replaced them with people who arent afraid to tell guys like Neal no. In fact, the commissioners just rejected a development proposal from Neal that would have made flooding worse for its neighbors. Now the commission is ready to bring back those wetland protection rules they used to have. Suddenly theyre being warned that might violate SB 180. But being scrappy underdogs, theyre not backing down. We believe the intent of SB 180 was to only cover storm-damaged properties, Kruse said. Plus the bill is super-vague about what more restrictive and burdensome means. Doing nothing will destroy the state, he told me. He and his colleagues arent afraid to take the consequences of doing whats right. So any developer who wants to spend their money suing us, he said, Id tell them to go right ahead. Repeal vs. rejection I asked the folks I interviewed if they want the Legislature to repeal SB 180, or at least the part that ties the hands of the local governments. Thats what 1000 Friends of Florida hopes will happen. Semrad, the Orange County commissioner, said she had talked to the House sponsor of the bill, Rep. Fiona McFarland, who assured her that what was happening was not what the Legislature intended. She said shed be okay with repealing the bill. DiCiglie, in an emailed statement, told me hed be open to at least reopening the discussion. He didnt say whether he was aware of what this provision would do? Ive heard concerns from local leaders about provisions affecting municipal authority, such as post-storm land-use restrictions, the senator said in an emailed statement. I value this feedback and will continue engaging with stakeholders. If there is an opportunity to improve current law during the next legislative session, I will not hesitate to do that. But several folks told me they cant wait a year for the Legislature to act. They dont want to gamble on Neal and other developers buying er, excuse me, I mean influencing our elected officials to do their bidding. They need relief right now. Thats why theyre pursuing what I like to think of as the Warren Zevon Option send lawyers, guns, and money and get a judge to throw out the law. Gov. DeSantis who never served a day in local government has been making a lot of noise about cracking down on wasteful spending by local governments. Hes even sicced the Florida version of the Department of Government Efficiency on several of them, including Orange and Manatee counties. But it seems to me that making these local governments sue to toss out a law that DeSantis should have never signed is a pretty wasteful expense for the taxpayers. Its his fault this Bad News Bill became law. Thats why I would encourage those local governments, when they win, to send all of their legal bills to the governors mansion for payment. They should also attach a note signed, Warmest regards from the under-DOGE. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE NEED TO KNOW Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna told Joe Rogan about a strange "airspace incursion" while she was serving in the Oregon Air National Guard that she believes was an unidentified aerial phenomenon The pilots who witnessed the incident allegedly refused to give her more information about it, other than to say they couldn't identify what they saw Luna has been outspoken about UFO and UAP transparency during her time in Congress, leading a task force to push for the declassification of possible government intel Florida Rep. Anna Paulina Luna believes an unidentified aerial phenomenon (UAP) penetrated the airspace at her former air base. The far-right Republican, 36, recalled a strange "airspace incursion" that occurred during her time in the Oregon Air National Guard on a recent episode of Joe Rogan's podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luna was working as an airfield manager at the Portland Air National Guard Base when an unauthorized object entered the airspace. Luna tried to ask the pilots what they saw, but they refused. "Theyre like, Eh, we cant really talk about it. And no one really wanted to address it, she said, adding that one pilot said they couldn't "really identify" whatever they saw in the sky. Rogan, 58, suggested the incident could have been a foreign military's plane or something classified, but Luna recalled how one of the pilots seemed shaken by the experience. Thus, she concluded the incursion was an unidentified anomalous phenomenon, or UAP formerly known as UFOs. "No one really wanted to address it, and so from what I gathered, that had likely been a UAP," she said. "So that kind of was my perspective." Anna Paulina Luna/Instagram Anna Paulina Luna during her time serving in the U.S. Air Force. Anna Paulina Luna during her time serving in the U.S. Air Force. Luna, who chairs the Declassification of Federal Secrets task force in the House of Representatives, has been advocating for government transparency about UAPs since assuming her seat in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the podcast, she noted that those who reported seeing unidentified objects often face stigma especially military members, for which a UAP report could threaten their security clearance and credibility, she said. Luna also alleged that lawmakers have been shown evidence of "interdimensional beings." Without getting into classified conversations, there have been incidences where I believe very credible people have reported that there have been movements outside of time and space, Luna said. "Based on the photos that I've seen, I'm very confident there's things out there that have not been created by mankind." 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. Luna has been known to peddle conspiracy theories during her rise to prominence, including about the deaths of President John F. Kennedy and child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She has been a staunch supporter of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s controversial "Make America Healthy Again" agenda as well as Trump's mass deportation and detention program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days after the 2025 inauguration, Luna introduced a bill to carve Trump's face into Mount Rushmore so that he could "be forever remembered among the great like Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Read the original article on People In April, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to encourage the expansion of apprenticeships, setting a goal of 1 million new active apprentices. The order demonstrates that policymakers now understand what manufacturing employers have long felt: If we want to bring more manufacturing back to the United States, we need ways to build talent pipelines. Workers are the backbone of our industry, and right now, we need more of them. More than two-thirds of employers in electronics manufacturing reported difficulty in finding and retaining skilled workers in an industry survey by IPC, the global electronics association. By 2031, the U.S. manufacturing sector is projected to have 2.1 million unfilled jobs. For employers, the benefits of apprenticeship are well documented. In the United States, employers report an average return of $1.44 for every dollar invested in apprenticeship. Apprenticeship helps employers with hard-to-fill roles, as well as increase the productivity of workers. But even though apprenticeships are an age-old idea (dating back to Ben Franklin and Paul Revere) with plenty of data to back them up, they remain underused. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The good news is that interest in apprenticeships is growing: The number of active registered apprentices in the U.S. has nearly doubled in the past decade. While apprenticeship has the deepest roots in the skilled trades, its also expanding to new industries like firefighting, teaching, and healthcare. Can the approach work in fields like electronics manufacturing as well? At Mack Technologies, we piloted our first apprenticeship in 2024, with four apprentices graduating from the Surface Mount/Circuit Board Technician apprenticeship program in Melbourne, south of Port Canaveral on Floridas east coast. After the success of the initial group, weve now expanded the effort, rolling out new apprenticeship programs in partnership with The Global Electronics Association. What weve learned can help others across the manufacturing industry build and implement apprenticeships to solve their workforce challenges in ways that help fulfill the presidents vision for a stronger American apprenticeship system. First, its important to think of investing in apprenticeships as a competitive advantage, leading to both a talented workforce and a culture of learning. Weve seen those benefits firsthand: 93% of apprentices who complete our program remain employed with us, reducing turnover and recruitment costs. As apprentices earn industry-recognized certifications, weve also seen fewer errors and greater efficiency on the production floor. With support from state and federal programs, weve also reduced upfront training expenses and received financial incentives for each apprentice trained, all while building a workforce with the skills and readiness our operations require. Second, think expansively about who your apprentices should be. Because the training is provided on-the-job, apprentices can have a wide range of backgrounds whether they have hands-on experience but no formal credentials, or no prior exposure to electronics at all. The apprenticeship model gives them a path to a new career, while both earning and learning at the same time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of our apprentices, for example, came from retail and was looking for a more stable career. Today, shes mastering soldering and printed circuit board assembly, key skills on our production floor. This program gave me a career path I never imagined, she says. These stories reflect what apprenticeship can offer: a way to help businesses develop the talented workforce they need while creating real economic opportunity for individuals. With the success of our first 20 apprentices, were continuing to bring more talent into the field in Florida. But just as importantly, we hope that others in the industry can expand on what weve learned and build their own apprenticeship programs. For manufacturers looking to stay competitive, apprenticeship offers a practical way to build capabilities, strengthen teams, and invest in the long-term health of the industry. Lea Tavani is the human resources director at Mack Technologies in Melbourne, Florida and holds a masters degree in education from the University of Georgia. Florida officer filmed punching man in viral arrest will not face charges A Jacksonville police officer will not face charges after a man was punched during a traffic stop. The incident, which was filmed, involved the arrest of William McNeil in February. The State Attorneys Office released a 10-page memo justifying the officers use of force. The memo stated that the traffic stop was lawful and that the actions taken were appropriate under the circumstances. McNeils attorneys criticized the memo, calling it an attempt to justify the officers actions after the fact and announced plans to call on the Department of Justice to investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident occurred after McNeil was observed leaving a house that was under surveillance for drug-related activities. The case has drawn attention to the actions of law enforcement during traffic stops. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Instead of opening another immigration detention facility at the Florida National Guard's Camp Blanding in Clay County, the state is shifting northwest to Baker County. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Florida will be opening a second immigration detention, processing and deportation facility at Baker Correctional Institution which he dubbed "Deportation Depot" in about two weeks. The governor and other state officials broke the news at an Aug. 14 press conference in front of the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new site will house more than 1,300 people, and immigrants will be removed into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody by way of the Lake City Gateway Airport, located about 13 miles away in Columbia County. "This is a priority for the people of our state; it's a priority for the people of this country," DeSantis said. Great to be in Sanderson today to announce that Floridas new Deportation Depot will begin housing, detaining, and processing illegal aliens for deportation, in coordination with federal authorities. With Alligator Alcatraz operating in South Florida and Deportation Depot pic.twitter.com/l43j58GhFf Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) August 14, 2025 Detaining immigrants at Baker is cheaper than Camp Blanding, the governor said, and will only cost about $6 million to get it "up and running." The facility in Sanderson was originally closed because of a staffing shortage within the Florida Department of Corrections, but DeSantis said the Florida National Guard will be staffing the facility. (Baker Correctional Institution is not the same as the Baker County Detention Center, which is already an ICE detention facility.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis said using Baker Correctional Institution, or Baker CI, would require "a lot less standing up than we would do at Blanding and far less than we had to do at Alligator Alcatraz." The state has poured money into that site in the Everglades, formally known as the South Florida Detention Facility, which opened July 1. Less than a month in, state contracts showed the facility cost more than $250 million to set up and it is expected to cost $450 million per year. Baker Correctional Institution in Sanderson, Baker County, Florida, Wednesday, March 14, 2018. [Will Dickey/Florida Times-Union] DeSantis: Feds will reimburse state for immigration enforcement costs DeSantis has said the federal government will reimburse the state for its immigration enforcement. Kevin Guthrie, head of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said the agency has been working with the feds for the past three months to receive a $605 million grant. The feds have also recently infused $170 billion for immigration and border-related activities for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in what's known as the Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a massive tax and spending law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Big Beautiful Bill 101: What you need to know about the new law State Immigration Enforcement Council Director Larry Keefe criticized the "weaponized judiciary with the leftist lawyers" and the media "distorting facts" for "peripheral flank attacks," saying they're trying to obstruct the state's immigration detention efforts. Friends of the Everglades, a conservation group, and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida are suing the state, alleging the detention facility in Big Cypress National Preserve "poses serious threats to the sensitive Everglades ecosystem, endangered species, clean water and dark night skies." U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams issued a temporary restraining order to halt any further construction of the South Florida Detention Facility and said she will issue a decision before the order expires on Aug. 21. Police officers park outside Alligator Alcatraz in Ochopee, Florida, during the vigil Aug. 10, 2025. Florida officials have said that once capacity at the South Florida Detention Facility was reached, they would look at opening another facility at Camp Blanding, a training center for the Florida National Guard in Clay County. Currently, there are 1,000 people detained at the South Florida Detention Facility, and there's capacity to hold 2,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis said the federal government is "ramping up" removal flights from the South Florida facility. While the state operates the facility, the removal of undocumented immigrants is under federal jurisdiction. But DeSantis also said opening the South Florida Detention Facility has caused an increase of immigrants taking the state's "Voluntary Departure" option. The program is a collaboration between U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and the state, where Florida buys commercial flights for migrants as an alternative to detention. The state has not disclosed whether taxpayer dollars are being used to buy the tickets, how many tickets have been bought so far this year and to which countries these flights were headed to. 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: DeSantis: Florida will open second immigration detention facility soon 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 Brief 11 people have been arrested in connection with a saw palmetto berry heist in Florida. Deputies recovered 6,000 pounds of the berries. Nine of the 11 suspects are undocumented and now have ICE detainers. PALM CITY, Fla. - Eleven men, including nine who deputies say are undocumented, are accused of trying to steal thousands of pounds of saw palmetto berries in Florida. The backstory Deputies with the Martin County Sheriffs Office say they believe that the suspects are part of an organized crime ring that has been targeting counties across Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators believe they had been surveilling private property and farmland in Martin County. Courtesy: Martin County Sheriff's Office They said the crew set their sights on a property near SW Citrus Blvd. as Agriculture Unit detectives were conducting counter-surveillance, tracking their movements into the county and waiting for what they suspected would be a berry-bountiful heist. According to MCSO, all 11 suspects tried to resist arrest and avoid being captured, but deputies apprehended them after multiple taser deployments. READ:Florida AG Uthmeier taking emergency action against new synthetic drug, 7-OH Courtesy: Martin County Sheriff's Office They were all taken to jail and nine suspects, who were undocumented, are now under ICE detainers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ:Polk County deputies searching for 'armed and dangerous' suspect after man shot, killed in motel parking lot Detectives said they recovered 6,000 pounds of stolen saw palmetto berries, which would have been a significant loss to farmers. Courtesy: Martin County Sheriff's Office They also seized journals listing other potential victims, which revealed the scope of their operations. What they're saying In a social media post, the Martin County Sheriffs Office wrote, "Let this be a warning: if you come into Martin County to steal, especially from our farmers and landowners, youre risking your freedom. And if you are undocumented and commit these crimes, know that we will cooperate fully with federal authorities, including ICE, for your detainment." What's next The suspects now face felony and misdemeanor charges. The Source This story was written with information posted by the Martin County Sheriff's Office. Every offshore angler worth their salt knows that mats of sargassum attract some of the most prized fish species in Florida waters mahi, wahoo and triple tail, among many others. To most sea-going minds, sargassum or seaweed, a brown-colored floating macroalgae, is a vital part of marine ecosystems. But its abnormal, massive proliferation is now causing serious ecological and economic problems for Floridians and our Caribbean waters neighbors like Cuba and parts of Mexicos coast. Scientists at the University of South Florida estimate that 30 million metric tons of sargassum are heading our way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carbon pollution in the atmosphere is changing Atlantic Ocean temperatures, currents and acidity in ways that favor runaway sargassum growth. Were literally watching global pollution wash ashore. We can no longer stand by while the worlds biggest polluters pump carbon into the air with no legal or economic consequence. Their indifference is harming the Sunshine State. Whos to blame? China is the worlds largest polluter, responsible for one-third of global carbon dioxide emissions over 14 billion metric tons per year. These violations arent accidental. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), in manipulating global supply chains, uses lax environmental rules to undercut U.S. manufacturers, flood the market with cheap goods and avoid accountability. Chinas carbon emissions again, the highest in the world are helping fuel a seaweed invasion thats expected to be 40% larger than the previous record in 2022. South Florida beaches have a seaweed problem The tons of seaweed will clog waterways and pile up on beaches, making it hard to enjoy the coast. Once ashore, decomposing sargassum releases the unpleasant odor of methane, ammonia and hydrogen sulfide gases that irritate our eyes, noses and throats and contribute further to global warming. Under the hot summer sun, the stench can become nauseating and hazardous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My colleagues in the Florida Legislature and I are determined to break this vicious cycle. Last year, I sponsored House Bill 517 urging Congress for federal support for policy solutions that address pollution disparities between the U.S. and other countries. Our aim: hold foreign polluters to higher standards. Tourist Nathalie Latimer, of Atlanta, Georgia, struggles to get through the seaweed after scuba diving next to the Blue Heron Bridge. Tides pushed it into the Intracoastal Waterway, July 5, 2018 in Riviera Beach, Florida. The lifeguard on duty said its the most seaweed he has seen there. He cautioned that people with sensitive skin may find it irritating to their skin. Here in Florida, strong conservative leadership has led to significant investments in natural resource protection. We use innovation and technology to reduce environmental impact and boost resilience against severe weather and other disasters. But theres only so much we can do without help from global partners. Opinion: With Trump's tariffs, Brazil has more to lose in its trade clash with the US This year, Republican U.S. Sens. Bill Cassidy (Louisiana) and Lindsey Graham (South Carolina) introduced federal legislation that would impose fees on top polluters like China and Russia. A plan like this would both enforce accountability abroad and strengthen U.S. manufacturing by promoting cleaner production practices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foreign pollution affects more than our beaches it impacts tourism, one of Floridas top industries. Sargassum deters visitors, which means fewer diners in restaurants, fewer guests at hotels and fewer customers in our shops. Piles of seaweed can shutter businesses, eliminate jobs and weaken local economies. Opinion: I fear Florida's FWC-authorized bear hunt will be a bloody, cruel massacre Im not letting seaweed push me away from my favorite coastal destinations. The floating meadows coming our way are one more reason Im pursuing real policy solutions to stop the harm before it reaches our shores. Its time to hold the worlds worst polluters accountable and protect the beauty, economy and sustainability of our great state. Toby Overdorf Toby Overdorf (R-Palm City) represents House District 85 in the Florida House of Representatives. This opinion piece was originally published by the Miami Herald and distributed by The Invading Sea website (www.theinvadingsea.com). Join the Conversation: The Palm Beach Post is committed to publishing a diversity of opinions. Email us at letters@pbpost.com. Letters are subject to editing, must not exceed 200 words and must include your name, address and a daytime phone number to confirm the letter is for publication. We only publish names and cities with the letters. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Sargassum seaweed crowds Florida beaches. Is China to blame? | Opinion TALLAHASSEE, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Thursday that the state will open a second immigration detention center inside a now-shuttered state prison in North Florida as the fate of its first such facility in the Everglades lies in the hands of a federal judge. Florida plans to spend up to $6 million to stand up Baker Correctional Institution which is 15 minutes away from an airport in Lake City to hold more than 1,300 people awaiting deportation. Baker was temporarily closed amid ongoing staffing problems in the state prison system. Florida has aimed to lead state and local governments in aiding mass deportation efforts being carried out by President Donald Trump and has pushed to create immigration detention centers. It set up its first center, known as "Alligator Alcatraz," earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeSantis had previously said the state was looking to set up a second center at Camp Blanding, the main training facility for the Florida National Guard located in North Florida. But state officials decided instead that it would be cheaper and more efficient to use the closed state prison. The new center, which is being called Deportation Depot, is expected to be operational in about two weeks. We have reached the point where we need additional capacity, DeSantis said during a press conference held outside the prison. The reason for this is not just to house people indefinitely. We want to process, stage and then return illegal aliens to their home country. This summer, Florida under DeSantis emergency powers quickly commandeered an air landing strip owned by Miami-Dade County and turned it into "Alligator Alcatraz. The state spent tens of millions to set up temporary housing units in the Everglades. Trump toured the center right before its July opening. Environmental groups, as well as the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, want the facility to be temporarily shut down, alleging they should have been consulted about ecological effects on the area, which includes the federally protected Big Cypress National Preserve. U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, just wrapped up hearings on the groups lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams on Aug. 7 ordered that construction work be halted at Alligator Alcatraz for the next two weeks. DeSantis, who said there are currently about 1,000 people housed in the Everglades facility, brushed aside a question Thursday on whether the state was moving ahead with a center in North Florida due to the litigation. He did lash out at Williams, who previously held state Attorney General James Uthmeier in civil contempt for not following an order halting enforcement of a Florida immigration law. Its obvious this judge is hostile, DeSantis told reporters. Its a political thing. DeSantis made it clear that if Williams does rule against the state over Alligator Alcatraz, Florida will quickly appeal the ruling and seek it to have it stayed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baker was one of a handful of state prisons closed in 2021 as state corrections officials struggled to find enough employees to guard prisoners. The situation got so dire that the state eventually brought in members of the Florida National Guard to help. That arrangement ended this summer. But state officials said that the National Guard will be used to staff the new center, not correctional officers. Kevin Guthrie, the executive director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management responsible for helping set up the center, said that the Baker site and a couple of other prisons had always been on the states radar as possible locations. As part of the work to get it ready to open, the state will bring in air-conditioning units to pump in chilled air. He said that state law does not require air-conditioning in its prisons, but federal standards call for detainees to be in a climate-controlled location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A building thats been dormant now for a couple of years is going to have some unforeseen challenges, Guthrie acknowledged in getting the prison ready for detainees. Florida has been paying for the creation of the new detention centers on its own, but it has been promised more than $600 million in grant funds by the federal government to cover the cost. A spokesperson for Guthrie did not immediately respond to a question as to whether Florida has gotten any money back yet. AT&T customers could soon be eligible for part of a million-dollar class action settlement. The mobile telecommunications company has agreed to pay a total of $177 million to settle a class action lawsuit about two alleged "data incidents" from 2024. According to the lawsuit, both incidents resulted in some customer data, including names, addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, dates of birth, account passcodes, billing account numbers and Social Security numbers, being put on the dark web or illegally downloaded off a third-party cloud platform. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what Floridian customers need to know. What is a class-action lawsuit? USA TODAY explained that a class action lawsuit involves one or more people suing on behalf of themselves and others with similar claims. Once a class action lawsuit is approved, every member of the class is awarded, except for anyone who opts out of the group. Who is eligible for the settlement? How much could I receive? There are two subclasses that make up the Settlement Class: Customers affected by the March 30 incident can claim up to $5,000 by providing materials for the documented loss cash payment option, according to information on the settlement website. Those affected by the July 12 data breach could be eligible for a documented loss cash payment up to $2,500. Documented materials must be presented, according to the settlement website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some customers might be a part of both breaches and are referred to as "Overlap Settlement Class Members," according to the settlement website FAQ. Customers impacted by both could receive up to $7,500. How to file a claim for the AT&T settlement Those eligible have to submit a claim online via the AT&T Data Incident Settlement Claim Form. What is the deadline to submit a claim? The deadline to do that is Tuesday, Nov. 18. The claim can also be mailed and must be received or postmarked by the deadline date. Can I exclude myself from the settlement? Yes. As for those wishing to exclude themselves from the class action lawsuit, to keep the possibility of making their own lawsuit related to the data breaches, they must opt out by Friday, Oct. 17. When will I get my payment? It is unknown when payments will go out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The website shares that the court will hold a final approval hearing on Dec. 3 to consider approval of the settlement. However, payments could still be delayed if appeals are filed. Contributing: Taylor Ardrey, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: AT&T $177 million settlement: Floridians could receive up to $7,500 BOSTON (SHNS) The rate of Massachusetts health care workers vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 is declining, despite state officials pushing for the vast majority of providers to get their shots in order to stunt the spread of illnesses. The Department of Public Healths goal is to achieve an annual flu and COVID immunization rate of 90% or higher among eligible health care personnel at all licensed facilities and emergency medical services. That figure is based on a previous national target, DPH Director of Health Care Strategy and Planning Katherine Fillo told the Public Health Council Wednesday. The average flu vaccination rate among health care providers in the latest respiratory virus season, according to a Department of Public Health presentation discussed at a Public Health Council meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (SHNS via DPH) During the 2024-25 respiratory virus season, an average of 83.5% of providers in acute care hospitals were vaccinated against the flu, according to presentation slides shown at the council meeting. That compares to 75.3% of providers in non-acute care hospitals, 74.9% in ambulatory surgical centers, 57.8% in dialysis centers, 60.8% in clinics, 52.3% in nursing homes, 68.7% in rest homes, 52.2% in adult day health programs, 21.2% in EMS and 65.4% in hospice. Clinics include community health centers and CVS Minute clinics, as well as some urgent care centers and outpatient practices, according to a DPH spokesperson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providers in acute care hospitals reached or surpassed the 90% flu vaccination goal in the 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 season, and fell below that threshold in the 2023-24 season. There were notable differences in the mean and median vaccination rates, said DPH epidemiologist Fareesa Hasan of the 2024-25 season. For example, acute care hospitals had a mean of 83% but a median of 95%. This difference suggests that while many individual facilities maintained high vaccination rates, there are a few facilities with significantly lower vaccination rates, either due to many personnel claiming exemptions or being reported as having unknown status. Across other facilities analyzed for the 2024-25 season, the median flu vaccination rate was 81.1% in non-acute care hospitals, 79.7% in ambulatory surgical centers, 58.3% in dialysis centers, 61.9% in clinics, 51.5% in nursing homes, 67.9% in rest homes, 50.5% in adult day health programs, 9.5% in EMS and 68.5% in hospice. State public health leaders also discussed shifting federal vaccine policy, particularly with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. reshaping a key advisory panel. Providers shared how they are working to counter misinformation and work with parents to drive up pediatric vaccination rates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While DPH licensure requirements seek to ensure that all providers are vaccinated against the flu and COVID, workers are able to claim exemptions. Health care facilities must notify workers about the requirements, educate them about the benefits and risks of immunizations, and arrange free vaccinations, Fillo said. Average flu vaccination rates in the 2024-25 season trended downward for ambulatory surgical centers, clinics, nursing homes, rest homes, and adult day health programs, though there was an increase at dialysis centers. (DPH) COVID vaccination reporting requirements started in 2023, and all health care facilities are far below the 90% target. In the 2024-25 season, an average of 21.6% of providers in acute care hospitals had their COVID shot, compared to 19% in non-acute care hospitals, 38.4% in ambulatory surgical centers, 5.3% in dialysis centers, 41.6% in clinics, 16.5% in nursing homes, 48.2% in rest homes, 28.9% in adult day health programs, 16.3% in EMS and 39.6% in hospice. Hasan cautioned that dialysis centers also had the highest rates of providers with unknown vaccination statuses, which she said means the true vaccination rate is simply underestimated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, there has been a decrease in flu and COVID vaccination uptake among health care providers in Massachusetts, which is similar to the trends that are reported nationally, Hasan said. Eileen McHale, DPHs health care associated infection coordinator, said the department strongly recommends that all providers receive their flu shots in September. DPH is also holding webinars about flu and COVID shots, with the first session slated for September. Masking is also encouraged to limit exposure and the spread of respiratory viruses in health care facilities, but DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein acknowledged limitations to that strategy. While we have regulations that require a plan, a mitigation plan that may include masking, its variable across the state who uses masks, when they use masks, and if thats only in response to an outbreak, or if it is a universal masking recommendation, Goldstein said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Travellers heading to Portugal this summer are being warned to expect weekend delays and cancellations as airport staff strike across the country throughout August. Aircraft servicing, baggage handling and check-in teams are walking out every weekend this month over low pay, unpaid night shifts and parking disputes following British-owned Menzies Aviations takeover of Groundforce operations. Airports in Lisbon, Faro and Porto, as well as Madeira, Porto Santo and the Azores, are all affected, with disruptions impacting flights during the height of the summer season. Travellers advised to check before flying The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has cautioned that the collective action over weekends in August could lead to significant delays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Portugals airports managing company ANA has issued similar advice, warning that several airlines including state-owned carrier TAP are likely to be affected. Passengers should be ready for more weekend disruption as soon as tomorrow, with the third of the five planned strikes set to begin: 15 to 18 August 22 to 25 August 29 August to 1 September Flights have already been delayed and cancelled The strikes have caused chaos at Portugals busiest airports. On the first weekend, Lisbons Humberto Delgado Airport scrapped more than 70 flights. The second wave from 8 to 11 August brought more headaches with eight flights to Lisbon cancelled. Long delays also held up departures. According to union sources cited by Lusa News Agency, around 25 flights left without passengers checked bags, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The standoff has sparked a bitter public feud between Menzies and the Metallurgical and Related Industries Union (SIMA), which represents the striking employees. Related We were forced into this situation by the intransigence of the current management, represented by its vice-president Rui Gomes, who opted for confrontation instead of dialogue, refusing solutions that respected workers rights and the interests of the country, SIMA leader Carlos Araujo said in a statement earlier in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the middle of the high tourist season, Menzies and TAP have chosen to turn their backs on their professionals, customers and all those who visit Portugal, with an arrogant, irresponsible and calculated attitude. Meanwhile, Menzies said plans were in place to keep operations running and insisted the company respects the law and workers rights. A spokesperson for Menzies told Lusa that the union [insists] on promoting a distorted narrative based on unfounded allegations. Chaos reigns across European airports Portugals strikes are just one part of a summer of disruption across Europe. Italy endured a four-hour nationwide airport strike on 26 July, after earlier walkouts forced 73 flight cancellations in one day across Milan, Venice and Naples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spain has already seen disruption from Voloteas crew and pilots, who staged a strike on 26 July, affecting flights to more than 100 destinations. Now, from 15-17 August, airports across Spain expect more delays, as more than 3,000 workers at Azul Handling part of the Ryanair group have planned a walk-out at 12 airports. The strikes are expected to continue weekly through December. But few strikes have had the impact of those in France. Air staff strikes in July forced airlines to cancel thousands of flights, affecting more than 1 million passengers. Ryanair CEO Michael OLeary slammed the strikes as holding European families to ransom and called for EU action to protect travellers. Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holidaymakers heading to Portugal or elsewhere in Europe are advised to leave extra time at airports, monitor announcements from airlines and expect delays at major hubs. With strikes coinciding with peak-season travel, this summers ongoing disruptions serve as a reminder of how quickly holiday plans can be blown off course. SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) A former Spartanburg County Clerk of Court announced her run for South Carolina Senate on Wednesday. Hope Blackley is running as a Republican for the seat presiding over District 12, which represents portions of western Spartanburg County and east-central Greenville County Blackley resigned as clerk of court in 2018 to work for William Timmons. The announcement comes two days after Senator Roger Nutt announced his impending resignation after being diagnosed with Alzheimers disease. His resignation will take effect in January 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I extend my sincerest prayers and support to Senator Nutt and his family during this time, and I want to thank him for his dedicated service to our community, Blackley said. According to her campaign announcement, Blackley said that she is running for the soon-to-be vacant seat because she believes there is a need for proven, principled leadership that will protect our freedoms, uphold traditional values and fight for hardworking families. A special election to fill Nutts seat will be held on December 23 with a primary election on October 21. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. New Israeli legislation regulating foreign aid groups has increasingly been used to deny their requests to bring supplies into Gaza, a joint letter signed by more than 100 groups said Thursday. Ties between foreign-backed aid groups and the Israeli government have long been tense, with Israeli officials often complaining that the organisations are biased. Those rocky relations have become even more strained since Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel triggered the Gaza war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Israeli authorities have rejected requests from dozens of NGOs to bring in lifesaving goods, citing that these organisations are 'not authorised to deliver aid'," the aid groups said. COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry body overseeing civil affairs in the Palestinian territories, rejected what it called "false claims" made by the organisations. According to the joint letter, whose signatories include Oxfam and Doctors Without Borders (MSF), at least 60 requests to bring aid into Gaza were rejected in July alone. UK-based Oxfam said that $2.5 million worth of its supplies, including food, were barred from entering Gaza, while another charity, CARE, said it had not been authorised to bring in aid since March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another signatory, Anera, said it had over seven million dollars' worth of supplies, including enough rice for six million meals, waiting just outside Gaza in the Israeli port city of Ashdod. But COGAT denied Israel was blocking supplies. "Israel acts to allow and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, while Hamas seeks to exploit the aid to strengthen its military capabilities and consolidate its control over the population," it wrote on X. "This is sometimes done under the cover of certain international aid organisations, whether knowingly or unknowingly," added COGAT, which said that close to 380 trucks had entered the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'Hostile activity' - But Amjad Al-Shawa, head of the Palestinian NGOs Network in Gaza, told AFP that Israel "continues to prevent international NGOs from bringing their trucks" into the territory. "The number of trucks entering Gaza (each day) is only between 70 and 90 at best," he said. In March, the Israeli government approved a new set of rules for foreign non-governmental organisations working with Palestinians. The law updates the framework for how aid groups must register to maintain their status within Israel. Registration can be refused if Israeli authorities deem that a group denies the democratic character of Israel or "promotes delegitimisation campaigns" against the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Unfortunately, many aid organisations serve as a cover for hostile and sometimes violent activity," said Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli, whose ministry has been put in charge of NGO registrations. "Organisations that have no connection to hostile or violent activity and no ties to the boycott movement will be granted permission to operate," he added. - Deadly distributions - The aid groups complained that the new rules were leaving Gazans without life-saving assistance. "Today, international NGOs' fears have proven true: the registration system is now being used to further block aid and deny food and medicine in the midst of the worst-case scenario of famine", their joint letter concluded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our mandate is to save lives but due to the registration restrictions, civilians are being left without the food, medicine and protection they urgently need," said Jolien Veldwijk, Palestinian territories director for CARE. Israel has long accused Hamas of diverting aid entering the territory under the UN-led distribution system. Since May, it has distributed aid through the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an organisation that is boycotted by the UN and other aid groups over accusations it serves Israeli military objectives. According to Gaza's civil defence agency, the GHF's operations have been frequently marred by chaos as thousands of Gazans have scrambled daily to approach its hubs, where some have been shot, including by Israeli soldiers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late July, the United Nations reported that at least 1,373 Palestinians had been killed in Gaza since May 27 while waiting or searching for aid. International NGOs now fear they could be barred from operating in Israel and the Palestinian territories altogether if they do not submit sensitive information about their Palestinian staff to the Israeli government. The deadline for information submission is in September, at which point "many could be forced to halt operations in Gaza and the West Bank, including east Jerusalem, and remove all international staff within 60 days." lba-glp-acc/dcp An undated photo of Jaben Richards, a program manager at the state's Groundwater Quality Bureau places a sign advertising blood testing in Curry County, New Mexico. (Courtesy of New Mexico Envrionment Department) Blood tests from all but two of more than 600 residents around Cannon Air Force Base found so-called forever chemicals associated with firefighting foams, which have contaminated surrounding groundwater, according to a report released Thursday by the New Mexico Environment Department. While the presence of the chemicals in 99% of the 628 samples is on par with national studies showing the level the group of chemicals known as PFAS appears in most peoples blood, New Mexico environment officials said the key finding of the study was types of chemicals present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That shows a correlation between whats in their blood and what came from military operations at Cannon Air Force Base, Environment Secretary James Kenney said in an interview with Source NM ahead of the reports release Wednesday. Cannon Air Force Base officials when reached by phone Wednesday said they could not immediately provide a response because the report was not yet public. Source NM will update the story with any further comment. Of the 33 compounds tested for in the blood of residents outside of nearby Clovis, the four most prevalent substances are ingredients found in currently or historically in aqueous film-forming foams, or the type of suppressant used to put out fires from flammable liquids like gasoline. The report also found that 14 people tested had very high PFAS levels, similar to levels found in other states where the chemicals were manufactured or spilled. For comparison, only an estimated 9% of adults nationwide have those levels present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its profoundly disappointing that we have 14 New Mexicans who are in that highest national tier from the Cannon Air Force Bases foams migrating offsite, Kenney said. We dont make the chemicals in New Mexico, theyre only used here in that concentration and that significance in military operations, and they think this is that direct link that has been missing, but now proven. New Mexicans working or living closer to the PFAS-contaminated groundwater plume under Cannon had PFAS levels that were three times higher than residents not working or living near the plume, according to the report. The blood test results are from a 2024 state program to collect samples in 2024 from residents in surrounding Curry County immediately surrounding the base, in partnership between environment officials and New Mexico Department of Health. Participants were alerted to their results in the spring. Theres been a rising awareness to address contamination from PFAS, an abbreviation for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of synthetic chemicals used in the manufacture of everything from rugs to cookware to firefighting foams. The foams, first used in the 1970s are effective for fighting high-heat fires from jet fuel ignition, hence the prevalence of their uses on Air Force Bases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PFAS were first detected in soil and groundwater in 2018 near Cannon Air Force Base, with state officials alleging that the militarys use of firefighting foams over decades seeped into the soils and water. A dairy with contaminated wells was required to euthanize more than 3,000 cows and brought the miles-long plume to light. These chemicals resist breaking down in nature and can accumulate in water, soils and increasingly in the blood and bodies of humans and animals around the world. While their harms are still being studied, researchers have linked PFAS exposure to a wide range of health issues such as: decreased fertility, fetal developmental delays, increases in certain cancer risks, disruption of immune responses and more, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Efforts to address PFAS pollution nationally are estimated to cost billions of dollars as cleanup efforts stretch for years. New Mexicos PFAS contamination is concentrated around military bases including Cannon Air Force Base, Holloman Air Force Base, Kirtland Air Force Base, White Sands Missile Range and Fort Wingate.The state has spent more than $10 million between investigations, damages, legal costs and cleanup, according to court filings. While the military has previously promised to end PFAS use, top officials are saying they cannot meet the deadline to find an alternative in 2026, according to U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hesgeths statements to the Government Accountability Office in July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If this can happen in Curry County, it can happen in Anywhere, USA, Kenney said. Theyve authorized the use of these firefighting foams for another year, and the Department of Defense is going to be releasing these into communities all over the country. New Mexico is embroiled in several lawsuits over PFAS contamination. New Mexico is part of multi-state litigation in South Carolina, which includes a combined 10,000-plus cases against military and civilian PFAS contamination. The state is also involved in separate litigation in the federal court system, after the U.S. Department of Defense sued the state, claiming it overstepped its authority in mandating cleanup. In a new case filed this year, state officials alleged Cannon Air Force failed to address contamination, including barring state inspectors entry to the base to test for PFAS. The Department of Defense requested the case move to federal court, which was granted in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Pat Woods, a Republican from Clovis, told Source NM the state appropriated $12 million to pay to connect residents to city water, replacing contaminated, private wells. In the short run, were going to do some of these shorter pipelines to help Clovis citizens that have contaminated water and high levels in their bloodstream, Woods said. We didnt cause the problem, but were proposing a solution to the problem. The New Mexico Environment Department will hold a public meeting on Thursday Oct. 23 in Curry County to present the reports findings. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX House Democrats convened a virtual call Wednesday amid an escalating national redistricting controversy that could have widespread implications on next year's midterm elections. The call, hosted by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, featured former Attorney General Eric Holder, chair of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene were also on the call. A source familiar with the call said Holder provided "a high-level overview to the House Democratic Caucus on the latest in the fight against Donald Trump's gerrymandering scheme in Texas and across the country." Following the call, another source told CBS News the "entire caucus is united" against GOP redistricting attempts. Texas has become ground zero in the redistricting battle after Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott called a special session of the state Legislature last month to consider a new congressional map that would net a five-seat Republican majority. The Texas Senate passed the map Tuesday in a 19-2 vote, with many Democratic lawmakers walking out in protest. Texas House Democrats fled the state to deny Republicans a quorum in their chamber, but Abbott has vowed to call another special session if they do not return before the Legislature adjourns at the end of the week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is an effort to stifle Americans who have had enough," Texas House Democratic Caucus Chairman Gene Wu said in a press conference Wednesday. "Republicans know that their agenda and what they have done is so unpopular with not just liberals or Democrats but with all Americans that they need to cheat to rig the system so they can stay in power." California has vowed to redraw its congressional map in retaliation if Texas ultimately approves the new districts. The state's Democratic governor, Gavin Newsom, wrote to President Trump this week urging him to call off Texas and other red states from taking further action. Newsom's office announced a press conference Thursday touting a "major announcement." "DEMOCRATS WILL DESTROY GREG ABBOTT'S 'TOTALLY RIGGED MAPS.' TREMENDOUS WORK IS BEING DONE," the California governor's office posted on X, imitating Mr. Trump's social media style. "DONALD TRUMP. GET READY FOR THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PAYBACK YOU'VE EVER SEEN!!! " The NDRC's nonprofit arm, the National Redistricting Foundation, is involved in a lawsuit against Texas over its current maps. The organization has also made calls and held briefings with state and local leaders and partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former President Barack Obama is slated to headline a fundraiser for NDRC with Holder and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi next week. Holder served as attorney general during the Obama administration. "In this moment, steps must be taken to respond to the authoritarian measures being considered in certain states and now so brazenly taken in Texas," Holder said in a statement. "We must preserve our democracy now in order to ultimately heal it." Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? BELVIDERE, Ill. (WTVO) Brian Kunce, Deputy Chief of the North Park Fire Protection District, is facing a battle against Stage 4 cancer, according to a fundraising effort. Kunce has served for 43 years, both at North Park and formerly as Chief at Boone County Fire Protection District #2. The Yard Foundation, a Chicago-based charity for firefighters, started a fundraiser for Kunce and his family, saying, Chief Kunce faces his own Mayday calla battle against stage 4 cancer. This is the toughest fight of his life, and he shouldnt have to face it alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Kunce has been a rocka steady leader known for his deep knowledge and unwavering commitment to service. He is the kind of firefighter you always want by your side on a tough call, the leader who always had your back. He has been a pillar of the fire service and an inspiration to all who know him, the fundraiser said. NOTE: A prior version of this story misstated Chief Kunces current position with North Park Fire Department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. Former Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund warned Breitbart News Daily that Washington D.C.s homicide rate is "five to six times that of any other major city in the United States." President Donald Trump announced Monday that he plans to deploy approximately 800 National Guard troops and assume oversight of the Metropolitan Police Department to tackle rising crime in Washington, D.C. The announcement caused shockwaves across the media, with some critics arguing that increased concern about crime is based on a faulty perception of Americas cities. Meanwhile, others, like MSNBCs Joe Scarborough, hinted that there may be some truth to Trump saying there is a crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sund praised Trump in particular for being a "very, very detail-oriented person," to the point he notices potential issues with the capital during rides in the motorcade. "In case people dont know that, it is not uncommon for him to be driving in a motorcade and realize, hey, street lights are out, or look at that or look at that graffiti and make a notification on it. That is how detail-oriented this President is. So for him to see some of the crime thats happening and some of the assaults that are occurring and Navy Yard is just six blocks south of the Capitol, a short distance from the White House. Its a big area," Sund said. Top Democrats Ripped On Social Media Over 'Bonkers' Reactions To Trump's Dc Crime Plan: 'Massive Liar' U.S. Park Police and ATF officers patrolled Washington, D.C., on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. "To see these gangs of youth kind of taking it over, it doesnt surprise me that theyre now going to pull these federal resources together and form [a] task force," Sund said of Trumps new initiative. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what has been stopped before can be stopped again, and Sund argued that Trumps methods have indeed been tested in recent history. "We did this in the early 90s, when I was with D.C. police, we were able to drive down homicide rates. When Chief Lanier was chief, think about 2010 to 2014, we had a homicide rate that was maybe right around 100, 170 a year," he said. "Now 2023, you got 274 homicides. So you had a significant increase." The rise in crime in Americas capital city is something noticed by commentators across the political spectrum, but many Democrats continue to downplay it, claiming it is actually at a 30-year low. Trump Claims Dc Crimes Trounce Stats From Notoriously Violent Cities Worldwide US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025 "So when people talk about, Oh, theres a big drop, theres a drop from 2023 to 2024, but its still significant double what we had in around 2010," Sund pointed out, noting the nuance that there "used to be a time the crime really stayed in certain neighborhoods." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other former members of law enforcement have sounded the alarm as well. "You have less chance of being victimized, but if you are victimized, you have more of a chance of dying," John Jay adjunct lecturer Jillian Snider, a retired New York Police Department officer, told Fox News Digital Tuesday of violent crime trends in the nation's capital. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture Despite being the nation's capital, where many of America's most famous public figures go to work, the capital remains one of the most dangerous cities in the country. Snider was referring to a report published by the Council on Criminal Justice in July, which studied violent crime data of 17 large U.S. cities between 2018 and 2024, specifically diving into the lethality of violent crimes in those cities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It found Washington, D.C., had the highest lethality level out of the group which included cities such as Baltimore and Chicago at a 38% increase in lethality in 2024 compared with 2018. Original article source: Former Capitol Police Chief says crime by gangs of youth in DC has spiked, escaped certain neighborhoods Oleksandr Boichuk, a senior midshipman and former commander of Ukraines only minesweeper Henichesk destroyed by Russian forces has returned from Russian captivity as part of a new prisoner exchange. Source: journalist Bohdan Kutiepov on social media Details: Kutiepov reported that Boichuk is a defender of Mariupol who went missing at the start of the full-scale invasion. For the first year, he was not even listed among the living, but his wife continued to believe and wait for him. She and their sons also joined the armed forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote from Kutiepov: "Oleksandr Boichuk the legendary commander of Ukraines only minesweeper (now destroyed), who sailed the ship away during the annexation of Crimea in 2014 is coming home! This is incredible joy! Believe, all of you who have lost hope! Miracles happen." More details: Boichuk appeared in Kutiepovs 2017 documentary Henichesk, for which the filmmaker spent two days at sea with the ships crew. The film tells the story of "the adventures of a 'Banderite commander' and the crew of a small but proud minesweeper Henichesk". Boichuk is originally from Volodymyr in Volyn Oblast. He was transferred to the navy in 2009. During the annexation of Crimea in March 2014, Russian forces blockaded Ukrainian ships at their bases. Despite refusing to surrender or join Russia, most of the fleet 51 ships was seized. Only a small fraction of Ukraines navy remained loyal. Oleksandr Boichuk starred in Kutiepov's documentary Henichesk, which was released in 2017. Oleksandr Boichuk starred in Kutiepov's documentary Henichesk, which was released in 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Photo: Bogdan Kutiepov Facebook Boichuk was also offered to defect in exchange for social benefits, but he pretended to consider the offer, gaining time for a manoeuvre. The Ukrainian crew attempted to escape with the minesweeper but were intercepted and severely beaten. Henichesk was one of the few vessels Russia returned to Ukraine, deeming it fit only for scrap due to its expired service life. However, Ukrainian sailors, using their own initiative, repaired the ship without modern equipment. Despite its age, Henichesk continued to serve and took part in joint exercises with NATO vessels. The minesweeper was destroyed in August 2022, when Come Back Alive Foundation director Taras Chmut reported that the vessel was sunk during a mission after being hit by cruise missiles launched from occupied Crimea. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! 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. POCATELLO, Idaho (ABC4) A former Idaho police officer will serve almost a decade behind bars for receiving child sex abuse material. Caleb Sickinger, 45, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for his role in obtaining images of a child from social media, digitally altering them to appear pornographic, and distributing the altered images to an individual in Alabama. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation began in Alabama when FBI agents located and arrested an individual in possession of CSAM. Following their arrest, the individual told police they received the material from a woman in Idaho. Agents were able to locate the alleged woman and execute a search warrant of her home. However, no devices were found with CSAM. Email addresses did not match those used by the woman. Two Idaho teens go missing, believed to be taken by members of the FLDS church After an in-depth investigation, FBI agents found the woman was uninvolved in the crime, and Sickinger had assumed her identity without her knowledge. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, District of Idaho, Sickinger utilized images from the womans social media account to mascaraed as her when distributing the material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This defendant victimized a child and her mother in committing this horrible crime, Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. The investigation involved the FBI, the Bonneville County Sheriffs Office, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Idaho ICAC Task Force. The case was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett. Special Agent in Charge, Mehtab Syed, of the Salt Lake City FBI said his team is unwavering and united with our partners in the fight to protect our children from predators who seek to exploit. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. The former Inkster mayor was sentenced to two years in prison in a bribery probe that federal prosecutors indicated involved transfers of money at a strip club, a Detroit bar and the driveway of his home. Patrick Wimberly pleaded guilty in September 2024 to one count of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds in U.S. District Court in Detroit. He was sentenced Aug. 14 to 24 months in prison and three months of supervised release by District Judge Linda V. Parker, according to Gina Balaya, spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney's Office in Detroit. Wimberly, 51, served as mayor from 2019 to 2023 and had no prior criminal history. He was indicted in the fall of 2023, accused of pocketing bribes from a prospective buyer of a city-owned property. His indictment in October 2023 came weeks before the general election, where Inkster voters opted not to re-elect him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wimberly was accused of demanding $100,000 from the prospective buyer in the spring of 2022. The individual paid Wimberly cash bribes starting at $5,000 a month, which the parties later agreed to increase, according to a prior news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office. After a discrepancy between the parties, it indicated, the prospective buyer increased the monthly payment to $10,000. The individual paid Wimberly $50,000 in total, with the FBI stepping in before the sale was complete. More: Ex-Macomb public works commissioner Anthony Marrocco released from federal prison More: Riverfront Conservancy CFO must go directly to jail, judge says to extension ask Federal prosecutors in a sentencing memorandum asked that Wimberly be sentenced to 37 months in prison. Even though he only got half of the $100,00 he solicited, they wrote, the sum was significant and demonstrated "the comfort and brazeness that characterized Wimberly's criminal demands." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There is no question that Wimberly's crimes are serious. The defendant an elected public official sold his influence and abused the trust of Inkster residents only to enrich himself," prosecutors wrote. "Wimberly knew it was wrong to demand cash to facilitate the sale of city-owned property but he chose to elevate his needs above the betterment of the city he was elected to serve. For that he should be punished." Former Inkster Mayor Patrick Wimberly Wimberly's attorneys asked for a sentence of one year and one day in prison, followed by a term of community service, according to their sentencing memorandum. They said he accepted responsibility early on and admitted guilt to the court. In a letter to Inkster residents submitted to the court, Wimberly apologized and indicated that he broke the community's trust, adding: "I crossed a line that should never be crossed, and in doing so, I failed you." "I wont make excuses. What I did was wrong. It was a betrayal of your faith in me, and it tarnished not only my name but the dignity of the office I held and the city we all love. For that, I am deeply sorry," Wimberly wrote in the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wimberly has been working as an Uber driver, according to his attorneys, and as the property manager of a large commercial space that he and others are developing as an entrepreneurial hub within Inkster. "We know that an honest leader gives stability to his city and one who is greedy for bribes tears it down. Mr. Wimberly dishonored his office so that he could line his pockets. And we will not let crooked politicians undermine our local government," U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgon, Jr. stated in a release. Prosecutors wrote in their memorandum that when Wimberly was elected, Inkster was soliciting applications from developers to acquire and rehabilitate tax-foreclosed properties under the city's Neighborhood Stabilization Program. Before a property was awarded to an interested buyer, they indicated, it needed to be approved by a committee chaired by Wimberly. In spring 2022, a local investor approached Wimberly's executive assistance, Saif Alsenad, about buying a vacant 13-acre parcel owned by the city. The investor planned to use the property for a towing and/or auto repair shop, according to the government's memorandum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It indicated that Alsenad told the investor that Wimberly expected to receive cash bribes in exchange for Wimberly's assistance in acquiring the property. Prosecutors wrote that the investor introduced Wimberly to Person A the buyer of the lot, and the person who would satisfy Wimberly's demands for cash bribes. In August 2022, at Person A's first meeting with Wimberly, Wimberly demanded $100,000 in cash bribes: $50,000 up front and $50,000 after the bid was awarded. Payments were to be in $5,000 monthly increments, then increasing to $10,000 a month, according to the memorandum. It indicated Wimberly told the individual that he could control the vote of the city council for the sale and use of the property. The first $5,000 payment to Wimberly was made in September 2022, with the second and third payments made at a local strip club. A January 2023 payment was delivered to Wimberly in the driveway at his house, prosecutors wrote, and a February 2023 payment was made at a Detroit bar. In March 2023, Wimberly indicated he planned a birthday party for himself and was going to use the money to take care of some of the expenses, according to the government's memorandum. In April 2023, it indicated, a $10,000 payment was made in the center counsel of Wimberly's car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors charged Alsenad on Aug. 14 with false statment or representation made to a department or agency of the United States in an information filed in federal court. It accuses Alsenad of telling FBI agents around Oct. 7, 2024 that he was not aware that Wimberly had solicited, demanded, accepted and agreed to accept cash bribes with the intent to be influenced and rewarded in connection with a business, transaction, or series of transactions of the city of Inkster involving $5,000 or more. The information indicates the statements and representations were false because Alsenad knew Wimberly had arranged to accept cash bribes in exchange for Wimberlys assistance in obtaining a parcel of land for a developer. No attorney was listed for Alsenad in federal court. Alsenad recently served as the director of government and public affairs for Wayne County. He resigned effective Aug. 4, according to Doda Lulgjuraj, spokesperson for the county executive's office. The federal prosecutors' sentencing memorandum, which included Alsenad's name, was filed with the federal court Aug. 5. Wimberly's attorneys wrote in their sentencing memorandum in his case that Wimberly's history is "inextricably intertwined with the history" of Inkster, where he was born and raised and where his maternal grandmother, 95, resides. They indicated Wimberly worked to develop programming for residents, reduce blight, encourage business development and expansion and strengthen the citys infrastructure as mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to his attorneys, Wimberly was approached regarding his willingness to use his official role to influence the purchase of an undeveloped piece of property owned by the city. "He was approached by a cooperating informant who indicated he had an 'investor' in reality, an undercover law enforcement officer (hereinafter 'UC') who said he wanted to develop the property into a multi-use complex, with housing and businesses for Inkster residents," the defense attorneys wrote in their memorandum. They wrote that the undercover officer proposed paying Wimberly $100,000 over 10 months and, in return, sought his advice and influence in the bidding process. Wimberly and the undercover officer met a number of times, according to the defense's memorandum, with the undercover officer spinning "an exciting tale about his plans for the Inkster property," including a mix of government-subsidized and private-pay housing, a coffee shop and a cigar bar that would bring jobs for residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there was no plan for anyone to buy the property, which remains barren, is used to store Department of Public Works vehicles and is no longer available for purchase on the city's website, according to the defense's memorandum. Wimberly's attorneys indicated that the property was not a part of the Neighborhood Stabilization Program and that the program is unrelated to his offense. They indicated the case was not a "typical" public corruption case. They wrote that the money at issue came from the government as part of their investigation; Wimberly was posturing when he said he was holding the property "open" for the undercover officer and giving him an advantage over other purchase proposals (as there were no other proposals); Wimberly could not have single-handedly ensured the sale of the property, and his motivation wasn't for himself, but for an undeveloped site to be transformed into something that would benefit the community. His attorneys provided numerous letters of support for Wimberly from family, friends and community members and a more than 12-minute long video. Prosecutors wrote in their memorandum that public corruption is a "pervasive problem" in this federal court's district and judges have sentenced other former elected officials to prison for running bribery schemes including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Taylor Mayor Richard Sollars , who was sentenced to 71 months in prison in October 2024 for conspiring to accept more than $85,000 in bribes and engaging in a wire fraud scheme that made him more than $70,000. Dean Reynolds, a former Clinton Township trustee, who was sentenced to 17 years in prison in February 2019 in a widespread corruption probe. He was accused of accepting bribes in connection with millions of dollars in township garbage, towing and engineering contracts, unlawfully collecting about $130,000 in money and legal services. Former Ecorse Mayor Herbert Worthy, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison in January 2011 after accepting more than $30,000 in bribes in a public works services related scheme, according to federal authorities. At least one former public official received probation instead of prison in a federal case. Former Romulus Mayor LeRoy Burcroff was sentenced to three years of probation and four months of home confinement in April 2024 for using $15,000 in campaign funds for personal spending including a family wedding and yacht club membership. This story was updated to include new information. Contact Christina Hall: chall@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @challreporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: Former Inkster mayor sentenced to prison in federal bribery scheme The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the Prosecutor Generals Office have served former MP Viktor Medvedchuk and 12 other members of the Other Ukraine organisation, which operates in Moscow under the guise of a civic association, with notices of suspicion in absentia. Source: SSU; Office of the Prosecutor General Details: Investigators say that the organisation works for Russias military-political leadership, carrying out tasks for the FSB and the Foreign Intelligence Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suspects include Denys Zharkykh, Artem Marchevsky, Roman Kovalenko, Ruslan Kalynchuk, Yan Taksyur, Yury Dudkin, Ruslan Kotsaba, Natalia Khoroshevska, Bohdan Hihanov, Oleh Yasynskyi, Oleksand Lazariev and Kyrylo Molchanov, who is currently in custody. The SSU reports that the group created and developed the subversive information project Other Ukraine to promote Kremlin narratives, justify aggression, call for changes to Ukraines state borders, incite hostility and discredit Ukraine internationally. The content was distributed via controlled Telegram channels, YouTube, and the pro-Russian media outlet Voice of Europe, which the EU sanctioned in 2024. The investigation established that Medvedchuk coordinated the creation of Other Ukraine with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin, after which the FSB took over the projects coordination. The staff included top managers and propagandists from the ex-MPs sanctioned TV channels, most of whom fled to Russia at the start of the full-scale invasion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A separate role in the case is played by Kyrylo Molchanov, who is cooperating with investigators. The SSU claims he worked for both the FSB and Russian foreign intelligence, maintained contact with Lieutenant General Georgiy Grishaev, and organised pro-Russian street rallies in the EU. The suspects actions are classified under articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine covering treason, collaboration, public calls to overthrow the government, violation of equality rights and justification of Russian aggression. Molchanov additionally faces a separate count of treason, which carries a potential life sentence and confiscation of assets. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Cincinnati City Council's last Republican is hoping to return. Hyde Park resident Liz Keating was the lone Republican on Cincinnati's nine-member council before she was voted out in 2023. Keating has pulled petitions to run for City Council, a Hamilton County Board of Elections staffer confirmed Aug. 14. The deadline to file for city council hopefuls is Aug. 21. "We're at a pivotal moment for our city," Keating said in a text message. "I love Cincinnati which is why I'm seriously considering my options." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty-four candidates have submitted petitions to run for Cincinnati City Council, which is nonpartisan. Former Cincinnati Vice Mayor Chris Smitherman, who has previously campaigned as an independent, has also pulled petitions. When asked if she planned to run with support from a political party, Keating said she's considering all her options at this point. Enquirer reporter Scott Wartman contributed reporting. Regional politics reporter Erin Glynn can be reached at eglynn@enquirer.com, @ee_glynn on X or @eringlynn on Bluesky. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati City Council's last Republican considers a return A former St. Cloud police officer is going to federal prison for his role in a gun trafficking scheme. Michael Adrian Nieto,31, was sentenced to three years for dealing in firearms without a license. He pleaded guilty in February. According to the Justice Department, Nieto repeatedly purchased and resold firearms to multiple people. Among them was Ernesto Vazquez, described as a key member of a criminal conspiracy that smuggled hundreds of firearms to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Haiti. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors say Nieto used police databases to provide sensitive and confidential information to Vazquez. Prosecutors say Nieto bought at least 58 firearms between June 6, 2022 and Sept. 4, 2024. He later admitted to buying and reselling guns, including to Vazquez despite knowing that Vazquez was getting those weapons to third parties. Nieto also admitted that Vazquez had provided him with illegal items, including a machine gun conversion device. Vazquez previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic firearms and was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Former state trooper Terrence Davis is running as the democratic candidate for South Dakota Secretary of State. Sioux Falls SNAP card skimming hits 350 recipients Davis, 39, announced his campaign on Friday. He is a husband and father and currently works at East River Legal Services. He has degrees in criminal justice and public policy, and is pursing his doctorate in policy and law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Davis was a state trooper in South Dakota and Tennessee. According to a news release, Davis plans to lead with transparency, accountability and plans to put people before politics. His policies include fighting for 16-year-olds with a drivers license to pre-register to vote and establishing an investigative division inside the South Dakota Secretary of States office, dedicated to investigating fraudulent activities. His campaign website says he wants South Dakota to embrace innovation, reduce barriers and streamlines processes for voter registration and elections. If Davis is chosen as the Democratic candidate at a party convention, he may run against Republican incumbent Monae Johnson, who has held the seat since 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The secretary of state oversees elections, voter registration records and campaign finance reports. South Dakotans will elect a new secretary of state during the general election on November 3, 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 KELOLAND.com. The Mississippi Attorney General's Office is seeking information in its investigation of a former University of Mississippi Medical Center children's doctor who was indicted on multiple sex-related charges. According to a statement issued by Attorney General Lynn Fitch's Office, Dr. Mehul Dixit was indicted Aug. 11 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. Dixit is a former pediatric nephrologist specialist in children's kidney diseases at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges, according to the press release, stemmed from clinical visits that occurred between 2013 and 2023, following allegations that Dixit fondled teenage patients. According to previous news reporting, the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure suspended Dixit's license and summoned Dixit to a hearing, saying evidence indicated that allowing the doctor to continue practicing "would constitute an immediate danger to public health and safety." Grief behind the gunfire: How young people feel the impact of Jackson's crime and gun violence? Documents from the medical board showed two teenage girls reported that Dixit touched them inappropriately with an ungloved hand during exams at the medical center in 2013 and 2023. The board said its investigators found a third teenager who filed a similar complaint in Florida in 2016, previous reporting states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hospital fired Dixit, according to previous reporting. If you or someone you know may have information relating to this case, please contact the Mississippi Attorney General's Office at medicaidfraud@ago.ms.gov or (800) 852-8341. Pam Dankins is the breaking news reporter for the Clarion Ledger. Have a tip? Email her at pdankins@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Ex-UMMC doctor indicted on dozens of sex charges MS attorney general GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) The SC Board of Education has suspended the teaching license of Nicole Callaham, an Upstate teacher accused of sexually abusing a teenager. Callaham faces multiple charges in both Anderson and Greenville Counties, including unlawful conduct toward a child and felony counts of criminal sexual conduct with a minor. The former Homeland Park Primary teacher was arrested in Anderson County for the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old boy, dating back to 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Board of Education stated it has reason to believe that Callaham may pose a significant threat to students. The charges against her highlight serious allegations that have prompted swift action from educational officials. Callaham was granted bond and placed under house arrest with GPS monitoring following her arrest in July. The suspension of her license will remain in effect until due process is completed. No trial date has been set. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. VERNON CENTER, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) The former treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department had his day in court on Thursday after he was accused of stealing $300,000 from his department. According to a release by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and first reported by the Daily Sentinel, 52-year-old Jonnell Rose of Vernon pled guilty in Oneida County Court on Thursday, August 14 to second-degree Grand Larceny, a Class C Felony. Rose was the former treasurer of the Vernon Center Fire Department. This crime is particularly disturbing because of the victims that were targeted, the community and the fine men and women who selflessly give their time and talent as volunteer firefighters, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville said in a statement. I would like to thank the New York State Police and the New York State Comptrollers Office for their hard work as well as the efforts of my Assistant, ADA Paul Kelly, who ensured that the defendant was held responsible and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A joint investigation by the New York State Comptrollers Office and the New York State Police revealed that Rose stole approximately $309,000 from 2018 to 2024. According to the investigation, Rose wrote checks from the fire department to cash, which he pocketed for himself. Rose also deposited checks from legitimate vendors along with other checks meant for the department into his personal accounts. Further forensic investigation found that Rose made numerous personal purchases and payments. Purchases included transactions in cryptocurrency, credit card payments and cash withdrawals. Jonnell Rose betrayed his communitys trust and stole over $300,000 meant to protect it, Comptroller DiNapoli said in a statement. I thank District Attorney Carville and the New York State Police for their partnership in holding him accountable. Rose will appear before Judge Michael Nolan in Oneida County Court for sentencing on Tuesday, October 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WUTR/WFXV - CNYhomepage.com. A former soldier and his wife have been indicted by a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Georgia on charges that the couple starved their child to death while stationed at Fort Stewart. Brandon M. Kelley, 29, and Stacey D. Kelley, 26, were indicted for reportedly murdering their child, Vyolet Kelley, by depriving her of adequate nourishment, an Aug. 8 Justice Department release stated. The couple faces one count of felony murder, along with two counts of second-degree murder, in the childs unlawful death, according to court documents. The Justice Department did not specify the age of the minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All counts allege the child died due to malnourishment and insufficient medical care while the couple was living at Fort Stewart, during which time Brandon Kelley was serving as an enlisted soldier, the release said. A report from News4Jax indicated the period of abuse took place across October and November of 2024. A request sent to Fort Stewart regarding Kelleys service record had not been returned as of publication. The allegations in this case are heartbreaking on many levels, acting United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons said in the release. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice. The couple could face life in prison if convicted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigation of the Kelleys was carried out by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigative Division. Prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy P. Dean and E. Greg Gilluly, Jr. The Kelleys indictment was unsealed just days after five soldiers were shot at the installation. U.S. Army Sgt. Quornelius Radford was arrested on Aug. 6 following the shooting. Radford, who has been ordered to remain in pretrial confinement, faces six counts of attempted murder, six counts of aggravated assault and one count of domestic violence. Fort Worth officials have voted to delay Oncor Electric Deliverys proposed rate increases that would raise residential bills by 12.3% and street lighting costs by 51%. The City Councils resolution suspends the automatic implementation of new rates while the city reviews the changes that represent a 13% systemwide increase over present revenues, producing an estimated $834 million in additional revenue per year for Oncor. Current rates will remain in place during the 90-day suspension period allowed under state law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oncor filed its rate increase application with Fort Worth and other Texas cities earlier this summer. Without council intervention, the new rates would have automatically kicked in. The resolution authorizes the city manager to join other municipalities in hiring legal counsel and consultants to review Oncors proposal. These cities form the Steering Committee of Cities served by Oncor, which will negotiate directly with the utility company. State law requires Oncor to reimburse the committee for reasonable costs associated with the rate review. This includes consultant fees and regulatory expenses incurred during the analysis. The councils action follows a pattern of municipal pushback against utility rate increases. Cities often use the suspension period to scrutinize whether proposed hikes are lawful and reasonable. A public hearing will occur before the council makes its final determination on the rates. The city may then approve, modify, or reject Oncors request based on its findings. The Brief Fort Worth ISD announced a drop in failing campuses from 31 to 11. The district is still at risk of a state takeover due to past poor performance. Official state ratings from the Texas Education Agency are set to be released this Friday. FORT WORTH, Texas - One year after 31 campuses in Fort Worth ISD received a failure rating, new ratings bring that number down to 11. In addition, Fort Worth ISD says 63 schools in total increased by one letter grade or maintained an "A" rating. Fort Worth ISD A-F ratings The district credits the significant change in academic excellence to the newly adopted strategic plan and a focus on literacy and math. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fort Worth ISDs state A-F scores have recently put the district at risk of a state takeover. In 2023, the scores showed that one campus received a failure rating for the fifth consecutive year; a threshold that prompts state involvement. According to state law, Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath is required to either close the campus or take over the district. However, Fort Worth ISD chose to close the school in 2023. The 2024 scores were delayed after several school districts sued the agency to delay their release. Last month, a court of appeals overturned a lower court's ruling, allowing them to be released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Morath told the state senate during an education committee hearing that he is still deciding on a plan of action for the district. Education commissioner weighs in What they're saying "I'll be going back and doing some on-site visits as soon as school starts up. I want to get a good basis for the facts on the ground. We're also analyzing other factors," Morath said. "I don't know what the right decision is either. We're going through a pretty intentional process to figure out what the best course of action is to support the students in Fort Worth. I would say this fall we'll have a resolution on that one way or another," Morath went on. The other side "Over the past 10 months, Fort Worth ISD has taken bold, student-centered steps to improve academic outcomes, all aligned to our newly adopted strategic plan," said Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Dr. Karen Molinar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Were not just talking about change, were making it happen. Our district is focused on literacy and math, because we know they are the foundation of long-term success for every student," added Molinar. What's next Fort Worth ISD did not release ratings for every campus. The Texas Education Agency's official A-F scores for both 2024 and 2025 will be released on Friday. The Source Information in this report comes from Fort Worth ISD and Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath. Fossil teeth unearthed in Ethiopia suggest two distinct human ancestor species lived alongside each other between 2.6 and 2.8 million years ago, reshaping what is known about our evolution. The 13 teeth come from a Homo species that lived in Ethiopias Afar region, overlapping with the hominin ancestor Australopithecus. The teeth, found at the Ledi-Geraru archaeological site, reveal that the oldest members of the Homo genus coexisted with the Australopithecus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These specimens suggest that Australopithecus and early Homo coexisted as two non-robust lineages in the Afar region before 2.5 million years ago, researchers said, and that the hominin fossil record is more diverse than previously known. According to Kaye Reed, a co-author of the study, the discovery shifts our perception of human evolution. "Here we have two hominin species that are together. And human evolution is not linear, it is a bushy tree, there are lifeforms that go extinct, Dr Reed explained. This new research shows 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. Fossil teeth unearthed in Ethiopia (Amy Rector, Virginia Commonwealth University) Analysis of the teeth, published in the journal Nature, shows they belonged to a new Homo species rather than Australopithecus afarensis represented by the famous Lucy specimen which last appeared 2.95 million years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new finds of Homo teeth from 2.6 to 2.8 million-year-old sediments confirm the antiquity of our lineage, Brian Villmoare, lead author of the study, said. The newly discovered ancestor species does not have a name yet. More fossils are needed for that to happen. Researchers dated the specimen based on the fossil sites volcanic and tectonic activity. The region is home to many volcanoes that spew ash containing crystals called feldspars. "We can date the eruptions that were happening on the landscape when they are deposited," Christopher Campisano, another author of the study, explained, referring to feldspars. "And we know that these fossils are interbed between those eruptions, so we can date units above and below the fossils. Were dating the volcanic ash of the eruptions that were happening while they were on the landscape. Fossil teeth collected from Ledi-Geraru Research Area (Brian Villmoare, University of Nevada Las Vegas) Examining the fossils and the landscape together allowed researchers to recreate the environment millions of years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They found that the landscape traversed by these ancient human ancestors 2.6 to 2.8 million years ago was a stark contrast to modern times. Back then, rivers flowed through a vegetated landscape into shallow lakes that expanded and contracted over time. "The geology gives us the age and characteristics of the sedimentary deposits containing the fossils, said another study author Ramon Arrowsmith. It is essential for age control. It remains unclear if the Lucy species and the Australopithecus species ate the same things and competed with each other for food. In further studies, researchers hope to examine the tooth enamel of the species to find out what they ate. CHARLES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) Multiple people are facing charges after they were accused of stealing thousands of dollars worth of items from a Maryland business. The heist came to an end Aug. 3, when the Charles County Sheriffs Office (CCSO) responded to the 300 block of Western Parkway in Waldorf for a shoplifting in progress. Loss prevention employees noticed two women and a man enter the store and grab two shopping carts and reusable shopping bags. The crew then began walking around the store, grabbing multiple items and placing them inside the bags. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies added that employees noticed one of the suspects, who was accused of previously stealing more than $20,000 from the business. DC police now allowed to assist ICE in transporting detainees, police chief says When authorities arrived, three people ran out the back door with the carts. Deputies were already staged in the area and stopped the man. The two women then began running to the front of the store, where one was taken into custody. The other woman ran across the street and tried to get into a car. However, deputies stopped the driver from pulling off. During the investigation, deputies discovered a two-page shopping list that included cleaning products, car waxes, car cleaning supplies, apparel, purses, jewelry, hardware and patio decor totaling over $4,000. Law enforcement also discovered drugs, and more bags filled with items with a separate shopping list for electronics and specific items. Deputies locate numerous stolen items during arrests in Waldorf. (Photo Courtesy: Charles County Sheriffs Office) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Laurel police investigating double stabbing that left father dead, son hospitalized The driver, Darwin Marquette Jones, 34, of D.C., along with Sheldon White, 39, of D.C., Ashanti Darnesha McClam, 22, of Oxon Hill, and Sommora Therlasa Middleton, 29, of D.C., were all arrested. Deputies charged McClam with felony theft; she also had two active arrest warrants and had been in possession of drugs. Middleton was charged with felony theft and possession of narcotics, and Jones was charged with theft scheme. White was charged with felony theft and was released from jail Aug. 4 on an unsecured bond. Additional charges are pending, according to the CCSO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. SOUTHWICK, Mass. (WWLP) Four people were taken to the hospital for serious injuries and burns after the vehicle they were in flipped over and was on fire due to crashing into a tree in Southwick last month. In a social media post on Thursday by the Southwick Police Department, the crash occurred on Tuesday, July 29th, at around 1:45 a.m. An iPhone detected a serious crash and automatically called 911 with a map of the location in the Mort Vining Road area. Several roads in Southwick closed due to flooding Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As dispatch attempted to make contact with someone on the other end of the iPhone without any response, officers were sent to locate the crash. Within minutes, multiple 911 calls were received reporting a single-vehicle crash. A nearby resident told dispatchers that a vehicle crashed into a tree, landed upside down, caught fire and had people trapped inside. When Sgt. Brad Fisk and Officers Matthew Olson and Nicholas Beauchemin arrived, they used fire extinguishers to help put out the flames to rescue the occupants. Four people were inside and one of them was able to climb out with the assistance of bystanders. However, as the fire intensified, officers worked to free the other three occupants. Officer Beauchemins uniform hat melted, and his beard was singed due to the flames and heat. Southwick police The last person was pulled to safety moments before the vehicle burst into flames. The four crash victims were taken to Baystate Medical Center for serious injuries and burns. Their identities are not being released due to their age. The Southwick Police Department commends all those involved who helped those in need, including the residents who assisted in helping a person out of the vehicle before first responders arrived. Mutual aid from surrounding towns, including Southwick, Westfield, Granby, Suffield, and Agawam, assisted. Chief of Police Rhett Bannish and the rest of the command staff here at the Southwick Police Department would like to publicly recognize Sgt. Brad Fisk, Officer Matthew Olson and Officer Nicholas Beauchemin for their quick response and action which, undoubtedly saved the lives of the three remaining victims who were trapped inside the overturned, burning vehicle. Their actions are nothing short of exemplary. Chief Bannish would also like to acknowledge our dispatch center for dispatching police officers and fire/EMS upon receiving the automated call. As the old saying goes, Every second counts, and in this case, they most certainly did. Great job and thank you! Southwick Police Department Crash Detection on iPhone The iPhone 14 and or later, as well as several Apple Watch models, have a crash detection feature that automatically makes emergency calls after the device detects the user has been in a severe crash, like a head-on crash, a rear-end collision, or a hit from the side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is also an Emergency SOS setting that will automatically call 911 when you press and hold the power button and one of the volume buttons, or rapidly press the side button five times. A countdown will begin and an alert will sound. If the countdown ends and you are still holding the buttons, the iPhone will call 911. To turn on or off these features, navigate to Settings, Privacy & Security, Location Services, System Services, and check Emergency Calls & SOS. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. NEED TO KNOW A shooting at a Michigan senior living complex Monday night left four people in the hospital Police initially said the shooting happened because the suspect was upset over loud music, but a neighbor says it was because of a "love triangle" dispute Detroit Police Deputy Chief Arnold Williams said the shooting was "so ridiculous in nature that you cant even explain it" Four people shot at a Michigan senior living complex Monday night were taken to the hospital and one resident says it all happened over a "love triangle" that turned violent. The shooting happened around 9:30 p.m. local time on Monday, Aug. 11, when police said a man approached a group of other residents hosting a barbecue in the backyard of the senior complex and opened fire, according to local WXYZ, Fox 2, and Click On Detroit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He came down and started firing shots, Detroit Police Deputy Chief Arnold Williams told reporters outside the scene, according to Click On Detroit. Three people were wounded by his firing those shots. During that time when he was firing shots, one of the individuals who was shot tackled the shooter. Took him to the ground. He dropped his weapon when a good Samaritan picked it up and, in self-defense, fired the weapon and wounded the shooter. The outlet reported that all four people wounded in the incident were listed in stable condition afterwards at Detroit Receiving Hospital. Williams initially told reporters Monday that the shooting appeared to stem from a resident being upset with the noise coming from the barbecue. This is a shooting that is so ridiculous in nature that you cant even explain it, Williams said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But what a neighbor told Fox 2 the next day made the situation and its potential motive all the more ridiculous. The outlet spoke with neighbor Reginal Ervin, who told Fox 2 hes lived in the senior living complex for the last six years. "I know everything thats going on," Ervin told Fox 2. "[It was a] love triangle. He said he was gonna kill him and thats what he said he was going to do." Ervin told the outlet that the shooter was a man in his early 70s whose love interest, a 65-year-old woman, began dating a new man in his 70s and in a wheelchair. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ervin said the shooter shot the new boyfriend and two others before someone tackled him, causing him to drop the gun. His love interest, the 65-year-old woman, picked up the gun and then shot him. Another neighbor told WXYZ that this kind of petty junk happens around here often. Age really doesnt matter, man, 60, 70. Some people are thugs for life. It just happens," Joe Nathan Piper told WXYZ. They just get older and stupider. A spokesperson with the Detroit Police Department told PEOPLE the shooting "is still under investigation" and that an update on the alleged motive "will be provided at a later date and time. " Read the original article on People GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) On Aug. 23, an arts and music festival will welcome over 40 vendors and eight bands to Sullivan Field for a day of performances all completely free. This is your invitation to see the Grand Rapids DIY art scene on its feet, Lili Bulkowski, lead event organizer of Small Foreign Festival, said. Everyone thats worked on the festival and everyone thats going to be there are seasoned in the community. ArtPrize announces headliner for free outdoor concert Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Small Foreign Festival is a new invention from West Michigan artist and musician Lili Bulkowski, though its name may sound familiar to some. Bulkowskis former band Small Foreign Faction broke up around the summer of 2023, but not before hosting a final performance at Sullivan Field called Small Foreign Farewell. Attendees at Small Foreign Farewell, a concert featuring Small Foreign Faction and other West Michigan bands at Sullivan Field (formerly Valley Field) from 2023. (Courtesy Lili Bulkowski, Photo by Brady Olsen 081325) Promotional images for Small Foreign Festival, a new arts and music event from the team behind Small Foreign Farewell at Sullivan Field. (Courtesy Lili Bulkowski, Photo by Ava Curran 081325) That went incredibly successfully, Bulkowski said. We had an absolutely astonishing response from the community. People had such an incredible time. Small Foreign Farewell had been an evening of live performances and some art vendors, but its surprise turnout and positive reception meant there could be much more for its future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had all the pieces in place to do this again, Bulkowski said. Do it in a bigger, more impactful fashion. Were shaping up to blow the last year out of the water. Promotional images for Small Foreign Festival, a new arts and music event from the team behind Small Foreign Farewell at Sullivan Field. (Courtesy Lili Bulkowski, Photo by Ava Curran 081325) Attendees at Small Foreign Farewell, a concert featuring Small Foreign Faction and other West Michigan bands at Sullivan Field (formerly Valley Field) from 2023. (Courtesy Lili Bulkowski, Photo by Brady Olsen 081325) Bands performing at Small Foreign Festival will occupy a variety of genres like funk, experimental, math rock, alternative, hardcore and indie pop, just to name a few. We were less focused on a cohesive genre experience and more in the whole event celebrating the working artists in the community today, Bulkowski said. It is an eclectic mix. Kalamazoo festival hosts live music and art in baseball stadium Drink booths and food trucks will also be present throughout the day, and seeing as the event takes place 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Bulkowski encourages attendees to come and go as they please. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want them to walk right in and make themselves at home, Bulkowski said. For more information on the free event, visit the Small Foreign Festival 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 WOODTV.com. Complete with a variety of food and cultural performances, the Indo-American Cultural Foundation of Central New Jersey will host its annual free India Independence Day event on Saturday. Members of New Jerseys Indian community which is an estimated 427,286 will gather at the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Vadtaldham temple, located at 1667 Amwell Rd., in Somerset. Indias Independence Day an annual national holiday celebrated on Aug. 15 commemorates the end of Britains more than 200-year colonial rule over the people of India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over 75 years ago, India gained their independence on Aug. 15, 1947, marking a significant turning point in the countrys history following the decades long Indian Independence Movement. Dr. Tushar Patel, who is the foundations president, said the event will attract an estimated 200 attendees, and has been hosted by the nonprofit for almost 20 years. The event will have a live DJ, free Indian food (such as Gota, Batata Pau, tea and soft drinks) as well as patriotic cultural dance performances from various parts of India to showcase the countrys rich diversity. The foundation established by American citizens of Indian origin living in Central Jersey strives to uphold the culture, traditions and customs of India by hosting community events and other cultural programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information, visit the foundations website or call Foundation President Dr. Tushar Patel at 848-391-0499. 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. HAMPTON A French bulldog named Macho is missing after being forcibly taken at gunpoint Wednesday. The robbery happened in the 2500 block of North Campus Parkway, and was called into police around 5:30 p.m. That location is near the Lumen apartment complex. According to police, the unidentified victim was walking his 2-year-old French bulldog when a vehicle with three people inside stopped nearby. A person exited the vehicle, pulled out a gun and forcibly took the dog. The vehicle then fled the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A short time later, police said, the vehicle was found in Newport News and 21-year-old Jayle Lee was taken into custody, police said in a news release. Lee is facing several charges, including larceny of a dog, robbery, and conspiracy. Police are still searching for Macho and the two other people involved. The Hampton Police Division urges members of the public to assist in ensuring the safe recovery of the dog. Anyone with information regarding its whereabouts is encouraged to bring the dog to the Peninsula SPCA or the nearest fire station. If you or anyone you know has information that will assist police, they are encouraged to contact the Hampton Police Division at 7577276111 or the Crime Line at 1888-LOCK-U-UP. Diners flock to the terrace of Mother Antho Aembe's restaurant in downtown Kinshasa to enjoy "liboke", blissfully unaware of the linguistic brouhaha surrounding the Democratic Republic of Congo's national dish. Made by grilling fish from the mighty River Congo wrapped in a banana-leaf parcel with spices, tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic and chillies, liboke enjoys cult status across the central African country. But liboke's inclusion in one of France's top dictionaries has upset Congolese intellectuals, who say its compilers have failed to capture the full meaning of a word derived from the local Lingala language and closely associated with national identity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Petit Larousse dictionary -- an encyclopaedic tome considered a foremost reference on the French language -- announced in May it was including liboke in its 2026 edition. Its definition: "a dish made from fish or meat, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked over charcoal." Tucking into a plate on the terrace in the city centre, civil servant Patrick Bewa said it was a "source of pride" that liboke had made it into the leading French dictionary. "We love it, it's really a typically African and Congolese meal," he said. "With the smoky flavour which takes on the aroma of the leaf, it's an inimitable taste. You have to taste it to believe it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But some scholars argue that the definition was compiled in Paris by the Academie francaise (French Academy), the chief arbiter on matters pertaining to the French language, without doing justice to liboke's original meanings. - 'United and undivided' - Referring only to liboke as food is "very reductive", argued Moise Edimo Lumbidi, a cultural promoter and teacher of Lingala, one of scores of languages spoken in the DRC where French remains the official language. Under dictator Mobutu Sese Seko, whose rise to power was helped by former colonial master Belgium and whose kleptocratic rule was backed by the United States as a bulwark against Cold War communism, liboke was even part of the national slogan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Tolingi Zaire liboke moko, lisanga moko," was a rallying cry, meaning: "We want a united and undivided Zaire", the former name for the DRC during Mobutu's 32 years in power. "I'm not happy about restricting this precious word, so essential to our culture... liboke moko, it's above all that communion, that national unity," writer and former international cooperation minister Pepin Guillaume Manjolo told AFP. "Limiting it to its culinary aspects may be all very well for the French, but for us it will not do." The Petit Larousse should have drawn up the definition by consulting the literary academies of the DRC and its neighbour the Republic of Congo, as the region where the word originated, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AFP contacted the publishers of the Petit Larousse dictionary for comment but did not receive an immediate response. Edimo, the language teacher, explained that in Lingala, liboke means "a little group". While liboke's inclusion in the dictionary is a good thing, Edimo said, Larousse's compilers should "deepen their research so as to give us the true etymology of the word". That would be "a way for them to express their respect for our culture", he added. At her restaurant in Kinshasa's upscale Gombe district, 41-year-old Mother Aembe was unaware of liboke's newfound literary status, but said she just hoped it would bring in more customers. mbb/sbk/kjm CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) Gerry Spence, the fringe jacket-wearing trial lawyer from Wyoming known for a string of major court wins starting with a multimillion-dollar judgment against a plutonium processor in the landmark Karen Silkwood case, has died. Spence, 96, died late Wednesday surrounded by family at his home in Montecito, California, according to a family statement. We are proud of his legacy and his contributions to the world, but most importantly, we are proud to be part of the family he built with love. We feel this loss deeply and we will carry him with us always, read the statement from granddaughter Tara Spence McClatchey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spence dedicated his life to fighting for the rights and freedom of ordinary people, colleague Joseph H. Low IV said in a statement. No lawyer has done as much to free the people of this country from the slavery of its new corporate masters, said Low, vice president and chief instructor at the Gerry Spence Method school for trial lawyers. A polished raconteur with a gravelly voice whose trademark suede fringe jacket advertised his Wyoming roots, Spence was once among the nation's most recognizable trial attorneys. He achieved fame in 1979 with a $10.5 million verdict against Oklahoma City-based Kerr-McGee on behalf of the estate of Silkwood, a nuclear worker tainted with plutonium who died in a car wreck a week later. Silkwood's father accused the company of negligently handling the plutonium that contaminated his daughter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An appeals court reversed the verdict and the two sides later agreed to an out-of-court settlement of $1.3 million. The events became the basis for the 1983 movie Silkwood starring Meryl Streep. Spence successfully defended former Philippines first lady Imelda Marcos against federal racketeering and fraud charges in 1990. And he won acquittal for Randy Weaver, charged with murder and other counts for a 1992 shootout with federal agents at Ruby Ridge, Idaho, that killed an FBI agent as well as Weavers wife and 14-year-old son. Spence led the Spence Law Firm in Jackson, Wyoming, and founded the Trial Lawyers College, now called the Gerry Spence Method. The retreat at Thunderhead Ranch in Dubois, Wyoming, helps attorneys hone their courtroom skills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He wrote more than a dozen books, including the bestselling How to Argue and Win Every Time. He made frequent television appearances on legal matters. Spence and his wife, Imaging, divided their time between Wyoming and California before selling their place in Jackson Hole about four years ago. An artist and poet, Spence continued painting and writing into his final days, according to the family statement. Gerald Leonard Spence was born Jan. 8, 1929, to Gerald M. and Esther Spence in Laramie. The family scraped by during the Depression by renting out to boarders. Spences mother sewed his clothes, often using the hides of elk hunted by his father. Years later, Imaging Spence sewed his fringe jackets. Spence drew a connection between the two women in his 1996 autobiography, The Making of a Country Lawyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today when people ask why I wear a fringed leather jacket designed and sewn by my own love, Imaging, it is hard for me to explain that the small boy, now a man of serious years, still needs to wear into battle the protective garment of love, he wrote. Pivotal in Spences young life were the deaths of his little sister and mother. Peggy Spence died of meningitis when he was 4 and his mother took her own life in 1949. Spences father, a chemist, worked a variety of jobs in several states but the family returned to Wyoming. Spence graduated from Laramie High School and after a stint as a sailor, enrolled in the University of Wyoming. Spence graduated cum laude from the University of Wyoming law school in 1952 but needed two tries to pass the state bar exam. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He began his law career in private practice in Riverton, Wyoming, and was elected Fremont County prosecutor in 1954. In 1962, he ran for the U.S. House of Representatives, losing in the Republican primary. Spence returned to private practice but said in his memoir he grew discontented with representing insurance companies and those invisible creatures called corporations. Spence received numerous awards and honors, including an honorary doctor of laws degree from the University of Wyoming and a lifetime achievement award from the Consumer Attorneys of California. He was inducted into the American Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame in 2009. Spence and his first wife, Anna, had four children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is survived by his wife of 57 years, LaNelle Imaging Spence; brother, Tom Spence; children Kip Spence, Kerry Spence, Kent Spence, Katy Spence, Brents Hawks and Christopher Hawks; 13 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by sisters Peggy and Barbara. Funeral arrangements were pending. MARION COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) Congressman Russell Fry was in Marion County on Wednesday to highlight wireless communications for first responders and residents. That technology is called FirstNet and its available all across the country to first responders especially during natural disasters. This technology has been around for a few years and was even used recently with the floods out in Texas, but Marion county officials wanted the public to know they use it and it works. Mark Durr with FirstNet says the technology has been proven effective in rural areas during natural disasters when every second counts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had four or five of these right along the river to help with FEMA and all those first responders gentleman and ladies to rescue those lost ones and give those families closure that they desperately needed, he said. AT&T along with FirstNet have been partnering to provide essential communication in rural areas. FirstNet is an independent federal government agency created after the Sept. 11th terror attacks after communication failures. Fry said that innovation used in rural areas like Marion county make a huge difference when it comes to staying connected. This technology is a big win for public safety in Marion County. Every second matters, and so when you think about what we do or what these brave men and women do in their communities when they cant get connected when they are unable to connect with each other its a big risk for those who put their lives on the line every single day, he said. Sheriff Brian Wallace says after utilizing the wireless service himself its proven effective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With natural disasters and critical incidents that communication makes me rest better at night. knowing that my officers and any public safety office that we have communication when we make that call, its going to go through, he said. * * * Eric Cooper is a multimedia journalist at News13. He joined the team in September 2024 and covers stories in the Pee Dee. He is a native of Cades in Williamsburg County and a proud graduate of Kingstree Senior High School and Benedict College. You can read more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. An American fugitive who faked his death and fled to Scotland to escape justice has been found guilty of rape in the United States. Nicholas Rossi, who appeared in court under his other name, Nicholas Alahverdian, had denied all charges. The case relates to an attack in Salt Lake County but he still faces another trial for an alleged rape in Utah County, which is scheduled for September. It took the jurors of four men and four women more than eight hours to reach their verdict. Rossi will be sentenced on 20 October and faces five years to life behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi, who had previously been joking with his legal team, showed no emotion as the verdict was read out. Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said: "We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. "We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. "It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court had heard from the woman Rossi raped in Salt Lake County - referred to as MS. She said they initially met online in 2008, began dating and were engaged after two weeks. She said Rossi's behaviour soon changed, that he became controlling, borrowed money from her, would not let her drive her own car and criticised her clothing. The court heard the woman decided to end the relationship, at which point Rossi pushed her on the bed at his apartment and raped her. The defence claimed the case was like a "puzzle from a thrift shop" as it has pieces missing and there is not a complete picture. Nicholas Rossi outside court in Edinburgh in 2023, after an extradition hearing [Getty Images] They claimed MS was resentful after losing money on the engagement rings and only spoke of the rape allegation after seeing Rossi in the news 13 years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court then heard from the woman Rossi is accused of raping at his apartment in Orem, Utah County, who appeared as a witness in the current case - referred to as KP. KP said she met Rossi on social networking site MySpace in August 2008, when she was 21, and they began a short relationship. She told the court on one occasion, she woke up at Rossi's apartment to find he had spent up to $400 (296) on a computer using her credit card details without permission. Rossi said he would pay her back but, after the relationship ended, admitted he did not have the money. She said he then began performing a sex act on himself and when she tried to leave, Rossi pulled her clothing down and pinned her to a couch or other piece of furniture before raping her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi's trial for allegedly raping KP is scheduled to start in Utah County next month is expected to last for two weeks. Who is Nicholas Rossi? Nicholas Rossi was born Nicholas Alahverdian in 1987 - Rossi was the name of his stepfather. Under investigation for credit card fraud, he faked his own death in 2020 and fled the US in attempt to escape justice. Authorities suspected he was somewhere in the UK. That same year, Rossi married his wife Miranda in Bristol. He caught the attention of the British press in December 2021 when he was arrested in the Covid ward of a hospital in Glasgow. Staff had recognised his mugshot and distinctive tattoos from an Interpol wanted notice - but Rossi claimed he was the victim of mistaken identity and that his name was Arthur Knight, an Irish-born orphan who had never been to the US. The legal process dragged on in the Scottish courts [PA Media] Legal proceedings began, but dragged on largely due to Rossi's antics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He made a series of court appearances in a wheelchair, wearing a three-piece suit and an oxygen mask, maintaining his claim of mistaken identity. Rossi insisted that he had been given his distinctive tattoos while he was lying unconscious in the Glasgow hospital in an attempt to frame him. When asked by journalists, he has been unable to provide a birth certificate or passport. He sacked several lawyers before a sheriff ruled he was Nicholas Rossi, and that his mistaken identity claim was "implausible" and fanciful". An order granting Rossi's extradition to the US was signed by Scotland's justice secretary in September 2023, and he was flown back to the US in January 2024 after losing his final appeal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a bail hearing in Salt Lake City last October, Rossi admitted for the first time that he and the alias Arthur Knight were the same person. He denied fleeing to the UK to escape arrest, claiming that he had left the country and later used the alias in order to escape threats. Authorities are searching for a 59-year-old Minnesota man who was indicted in Bergen County on charges he sexually assaulted a child more than three decades ago. Jed D. Phykitt, formerly of Washington Township, was charged in February with five counts of second-degree sexual assault, according to Bergen County Prosecutor Mark Musella. Musella said the charges stem from alleged incidents in 1990 and 1991 in Hillsdale, Washington Township and Westwood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say the victim was between 13 and 16 years old at the time. Phykitt was arrested Feb. 6 in Dalton, Minnesota, with help from the Otter Tail County Sheriffs Department, and initially held in the county jail pending extradition. He was later released by the court to await an Aug. 4 extradition hearing, prosecutors said. When Phykitt failed to appear for that hearing, he became a wanted fugitive in both Minnesota and New Jersey. Authorities believe he remains in Minnesota and are asking anyone with information to contact the Bergen County Prosecutors Office tip line at 201-226-5532. Jed D. Phykitt, without eye glasses Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. The Brief Roberto Salazar, the final defendant in the 2008 murder of a Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy, has been returned to the U.S. Salazar was among more than two dozen fugitives extradited from Mexico as part of a deal with the U.S. government. Five other people have already been convicted in connection with the killing of Deputy Juan Abel Escalante. LOS ANGELES - The final defendant in the 2008 murder of an off-duty Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy has been returned to the United States from Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roberto Salazar, 38, is the last of six people charged in the killing of Deputy Juan Abel Escalante, who was gunned down in Los Angeles. Deputy Juan Escalante was shot and killed when he was confronted by two armed gang members in front of his home as he was leaving for work on Aug. 2, 2008. / Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department The backstory On August 2, 2008, Deputy Juan Abel Escalante, a 27-year-old father of three, was shot and killed while leaving his parents' home in the Cypress Park neighborhood on his way to work. Escalante, a former U.S. Army reservist, had been a sheriff's deputy for 2 1/2 years. SUGGESTED: State Department updates Mexico travel advisory Investigators initially suspected his death was related to his work at the Men's Central Jail, but authorities later determined that the defendants mistook him for a rival gang member. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to sheriff's officials, Escalante identified himself as a deputy before he was shot. Gang members previously convicted in murder of Deputy Escalante Five reputed Avenues gang members were previously convicted in connection with the killing. Arnoldo Pineda, who testified that he was ordered at gunpoint to drive to the Cypress Park neighborhood where Escalante was slain, pleaded no contest in September 2010 to voluntary manslaughter. He was sentenced to 14 years. Guillermo Hernandez, who was sitting in the back seat of the car, pleaded no contest in April 2012 to voluntary manslaughter and was sentenced to 21 years in state prison. He waived credit for three years he had already served behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Armando Albarran pleaded guilty in 2015 to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. The gunman, Carlos Javier "Stoney" Velasquez, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole after pleading guilty in October 2012 to first-degree murder. He also admitted a special circumstance allegation that the murder was carried out to further the activities of a criminal street gang and to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Co-defendant Jose Renteria was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced in March 2013 to life in prison without parole for supplying Velasquez with the handgun used in the killing. Salazar was the final defendant in the case. He was booked Wednesday morning and is being held without bail. He faces life in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salazar is believed to be the passenger in the suspect's vehicle. LA County Sheriff Robert Luna said Salazar managed to elude capture for years, despite numerous attempts by authorities to arrest him. In March of this year, Mexican authorities working with the US Marshals Service, located and arrested Salazar three hours south of Mexico City. After months of legal proceedings, he was finally extradited to the US. Timeline August 2, 2008: Deputy Juan Abel Escalante is shot and killed. September 2010: Arnoldo Pineda pleads no contest to voluntary manslaughter. April 2012: Guillermo Hernandez pleads no contest to voluntary manslaughter. October 2012: Carlos Javier "Stoney" Velasquez, the gunman, pleads guilty to first-degree murder and is sentenced to life in prison without parole. March 2013: Co-defendant Jose Renteria is convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. 2015: Armando Albarran pleads guilty to first-degree murder and is sentenced to 25 years to life. Wednesday, August 13, 2025: Roberto Salazar, the final defendant, is returned to the U.S. and booked into jail. 26 fugitives taken into custody Dig deeper Salazar was among more than two dozen fugitives returned from Mexico to the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fugitives face a range of federal and state criminal charges from around the country, including charges relating to drug-trafficking, hostage-taking, kidnapping, illegal use of firearms, human smuggling, and money laundering. Among those taken into custody are leaders of drug cartels, including the Sinaloa Cartel, Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), and Cartel del Noreste (formerly Los Zetas). SUGGESTED: Mexico to extradite 26 top cartel leaders to US in Trump administration deal The Source This report is based on information from the U.S. Department of Justice regarding the extradition of Roberto Salazar. Details about the killing and the investigations are sourced from sheriff's officials, while the timeline of previous convictions comes from court records. AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- State and local leaders gathered in Augusta Wednesday talking about climate change. Theyre calling on lawmakers to take action after rising costs and damage from extreme weather across the country. This is part of the Extreme Weather Emergency Tour. Leaders have been traveling to parts of Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvaniaand Augusta is their latest stop to address climate change and the need to take action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly 11 months since Hurricane Helene, Augustans are still seeing the impactand they say theres still work to do. Just this weekend alone, I took my family kayaking on the Canal, and the journey was nearly impossible. Trees and storm debris are still blocking the waterways, nearly a year after the storm, said Traci George, a community activist. Community leaders joining State Senator Harold Jones about the costly damage from climate change. Local organizations like the Savannah Riverkeeper have responded, but they say the resources are limited. We are already stretched thin to the breaking point dealing with every day needs in this area. When a climate-related weather incident occurs, it hits us like a freight train, Cassandra Loftlin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats why theyre raising concerns. The Trump administration is proposing cuts to climate protections and federal agencies like FEMA. This as wildfires continue in California, and flooding has devastated communities across the country, including Texas, Wisconsin, and nearby Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Theyre calling on lawmakers to protect valuable federal programs. NOAA, NASA, FEMA, the National Weather Servicethese are not forms of wasteful government spending. These programs protect us, so protect them, said Paige Brockmeyer, a registered nurse and local military wife. Georgia Senate Minority Leader Harold Jones says hes already having conversations with delegates at the state level about this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says if something isnt done, lawmakers may need to reach into their own pockets to prepare for the worst. These events right now are already starting. When I talked about uncertainty with FEMA and federal funding, that needs to be cleared up. At the same time, we at the state level may have to make more investmentsespecially with the current administrationas far as cleanups are concerned. We now know we may not get full coverage from the federal government, said Jones. President Trump has said FEMA could be eliminated as early as this December. We reached out to Congressman Rick Allens office to get his thoughts on the situation, and were waiting to hear back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is going after her predecessor, pointing to a newly released email as part of her argument that there was an attempt by the Obama administration to undermine President Trump with the investigation of Russias 2016 election interference. A brief email exchange released by Gabbard shows a discussion between then-Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and then-National Security Agency (NSA) Director Mike Rogers in which the NSA director said they needed more time to review information before a forthcoming report to President Obama about Russias hacking of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). In the exchange, which took place in December 2016 after Trumps victory, Clapper said he understood Rogerss concerns but that the intelligence community didnt have the luxury of time and the draft they were working on would need to be a team sport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its release comes as Gabbard has declassified a number of records about the 2016 election amid demands on the Trump administration to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein. The emails show Rogers reached out to Clapper to relay concerns from his team members that they hadnt had enough time to review all the intelligence. I know that this activity is on a fast-track and that folks have been working very hard to put together a product that can be provided to the President. However, I wanted to reach out to you directly to let you know of some concerns I have with what I am hearing from my folks, Rogers wrote. Given the expedited nature of this activity, my folks arent fully comfortable saying that they have had enough time to review all of the intelligence to be absolutely confident in their assessments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To be clear, I am not saying that we disagree substantively, but I do want to make sure that, when we are asked in the future whether we can absolutely stand behind the paper, that we dont have any reason to hesitate because of the process. I know that you agree that this is something we need to be 100% comfortable with before we present it to the President we have one chance to get this right, and it is critical that we do so, he wrote. Rogers then asked about the extent the NSA would be considered a co-author on the product, saying that if so he would like to see the underlying intelligence directly but added that if your intent is to create a CIA-only or CIA/FBI-authored product, then I will stand down on these concerns. Clapper said he did want to ensure consensus among various intelligence agencies but said more time was not an option as the intelligence community was working to deliver a report to Obama less than a month before the Inauguration. It is essential that we (CIA/NSA/FBI/ODNI) be on the same page and are all supportive of the reportin the highest tradition of thats OUR story, and were stickin to it, he wrote, adding that a first draft of the report was circulating for review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will facilitate as much mutual transparency as possible as we complete the report, but, more time is not negotiable. We may have to compromise on our normal modalities, since we must do this on such a compressed schedule. This is one project that has to be a team sport. The documents shared by Gabbard are just two in the exchange, and its not clear how the conversation continued. Neither Rogers nor a spokesperson for Clapper responded to request for comment. But Clapper has blasted previous document sharing by Gabbard, writing in an op-ed with former CIA Director John Brennan that the claims that they were seeking to undermine Trump are patently false and that the Trump team is trying to rewrite history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a remarkable irony about this whole affair. Despite claims by Trump administration officials of a nefarious political conspiracy, we did everything we could at the time to prevent leaks of intelligence reports, including Russias preference for Mr. Trump, a requirement that President Obama regularly emphasized, they wrote. We knew such reports would be political dynamite. And despite substantial reporting on the matter, we succeeded in preventing such leaks before the election. Gabbards take, which Trump amplified Thursday morning in a Truth Social post, is that Clappers email suggests standards were compromised. The decision to compromise standards and violate protocols in the creation of the 2017 manufactured intelligence assessment was deliberate and came from the very top, Gabbard said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clappers own words confirm that complying with the order to manufacture intelligence was a team sport. Gabbard, who has struggled to maintain her standing in Trumps circle, has been praised by Trump in recent weeks for her handling of the 2016 election. Shes the hottest one in the room right now, Trump said last month when speaking about the election documents. However, the documents Gabbard released have not backed her claims. A first set shared by the director of national intelligence came as she accused Obama-era leaders of a treasonous conspiracy. But the documents showed Clapper discussing a detail that was never in dispute that Russia was never able to alter vote tabulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gabbard also released a previously classified report from Republicans on the House Intelligence Committee that questioned whether Russia was aiming to help Trump or simply sow chaos in the 2016 election. Most other intelligence products, however, have concluded the goal was to aid Trump. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A British drugs kingpin who organised a shooting from his hideout in Spain and traded a "vast arsenal of weapons" has been jailed. Jamie Rothwell, who was tracked down by police to an apartment in Barcelona, pleaded guilty at Manchester Crown Court to a string of drugs and firearms offences. Judge John Potter said 38-year-old Rothwell - feared by members of his organised crime gang - issued orders and expected them to be obeyed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rothwell, from Salford in Greater Manchester, was sentenced to 43 years. He was arrested after being identified as the man behind the "livelong" handle on the supposedly uncrackable EncroChat phone network. Judge Potter said criminals who used the network "mistakenly believed that encryption on EncroChat would never be comprised". He added: "Having access to a EncroChat phone was a matter of trust within the criminal underworld. "The phones in each case cost approximately 11,000 and were deliberately used by criminals to avoid detection by the authorities." Jamie Rothwell discussed how he was "addicted" to his criminal lifestyle [GMP] However, the judge said "trust in their EncroChat phones was misplaced - they thought they could act with impunity but they were wrong". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 then shared with British police forces. Judge Potter said the messages "illustrated organised criminal activity taking place on a very significant scale" and the value of drugs involved ran into millions of pounds. 'You turn cold' The court heard how Rothwell had also organised the shooting of a man in Warrington, Cheshire, due to an ongoing feud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On 22 April 2020, Rothwell and another man discussed Rothwell's wish to find out where Liam Byrne and his father, Liam Byrne Sr, lived. Rothwell was sent these details along with photographs of the men and images of their addresses from a satellite mapping application. 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. David Barnes, stepfather of Mr Byrne Jr, was shot in the leg on the doorstep of his home by a gunman posing as a pizza delivery driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Addressing Rothwell, Judge Potter said: "That man, at your command, discharged the firearm three times." Following the infiltration of EncroChat, Jamie Rothwell was tracked down to Barcelona in 2020 before being extradited back to the UK [GMP] In other intercepted messages, Rothwell discussed the callous nature of his crimes, saying: "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." Judge Potter said Rothwell was at "the top of the organisation". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said: "You have lived much of your life as a professional criminal involved in serious organised crime. "The offences you are to be sentenced on graphically illustrated your willingness to follow this path and cause loss and misery to others as you do so." Following the infiltration of EncroChat, Rothwell was tracked down to Barcelona in 2020 before being extradited back to the UK. He fled to the Catalan city and was living in an apartment with panoramic views over Barcelona after police in the UK handed him a "threat to life" notice. On Wednesday, defence barrister Chris Henley, KC, said Rothwell had vowed to turn his life around after living in "isolation, loneliness and fear". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was said to be "tired of the life he has lived". 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. The court heard Rothwell had previously pleaded not guilty to the offences and had gone on trial in July 2024. His trial had to be halted and the jury discharged after he was stabbed in a "ferocious attack" in prison. In February, 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. 'Arrogant and egotistical' Det Ch Insp Nick Henderson, from Cheshire Police, said: "Rothwell was a well-established organised criminal who believed his connections would allow him to commit extreme acts of violence whilst remaining under the radar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "While he lapped up the Spanish sun, his associates carried out his orders and searched the streets of Warrington for those Rothwell had intended to harm." Rothwell was sentenced to18 years for the drugs offences, and 25 years for the firearms charges, to be served consecutively. The firearms term includes 21 years in prison and an extra four years on licence. Nine other men were sentenced alongside Rothwell, who appeared in court for the hearing via video link from prison. Det Sgt Colin Shackleton said the men "believed they were above the law" and having access to their messages "gave us real insight into their arrogant, egotistical, and apathetic nature". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other defendants were: Andrew Ackers, 39, of Benjamin Road, Wigan, admitted conspiracy to supply cocaine and possessing criminal property. He was sentenced to 10 years and two months Scott Davies, 36, of Courier Place, Wigan, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin. He was sentenced to eight and a half years Craig Makinson, 50, of Springpool, Winstanley, was convicted of conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to supply cocaine, and conspiracy to supply criminal property. He was sentenced to 38 years John Moore, 38, of Kendal Drive, pleaded guilty to participating in activities of an organised crime group and was convicted of conspiracy to possess criminal property. He was given a sentence of 14 months but will be released immediately due to time served James Close, 44, of Henry Street, Leigh, was convicted of conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to supply cocaine and possess criminal property. He was sentenced to 36 years Callum Morris, 33, of Carr Bank Crescent, Atherton, was convicted of conspiracy to murder, conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, and conspiracy to supply cocaine and to possess criminal property. He was sentenced to 38 years Terence McDonagh, 34, of Thorncroft Avenue, Astley, was convicted of conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life. He was sentenced to eight years Zak Rourke, 35, of Deakins Mill Way Egerton, Bolton, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess firearms and ammunition with intent to endanger life, conspiracy to supply cocaine, ketamine and to possess criminal property. He was sentenced to 18 years John Stankus, 70, of Wigan Street, Platt Bridge, Wigan, was convicted of conspiracy to supply cocaine and amphetamine. He was sentenced to six years Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. More on this story Related internet links The Arizona Republic building located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2019. Photo by Kevin Hurley Multiple top reporters are leaving The Arizona Republic and its unclear how many more will follow after Gannett issued buyout offers in newsrooms across the country. Gannett Co. Inc, the countrys largest newspaper publisher and the owner of the Republic, announced earlier this year that it would be offering voluntary buyout packages to help offset declining sales. On Wednesday, the Arizona Agenda confirmed the first round of departures in the Grand Canyon State: long-time political reporter Mary Jo Pitzl; Elvia Diaz, the first Latina to serve as editor for the papers editorial page; and more than half of the opinions desk, including columnists Laurie Roberts, E.J. Montini and Phil Boas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a written statement, a representative for Gannett emphasized that the buyouts are voluntary and issued company-wide, not just at the Republic. The company owns more than 300 newspapers in more than 220 markets across 43 states. A Republic spokesperson added that the buyouts are part of a larger strategy to mitigate overall revenue losses, but said the newspaper will continue to serve the community with expertise and dedication. This (Voluntary Severance Offer) allows us the near-term flexibility to drive improvement while recognizing the value of our employees, the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. In recent years, the company has struggled with year-over-year declines in revenue that it has sought to alleviate with staffing cuts, subscription price increases and a greater reliance on AI. In 2021, the companys annual sales were at $3.21 billion and in 2024 that number fell to $2.51 billion, with revenue plunging each year in between. The buyouts come as Arizonas journalism landscape is already experiencing devastating cuts. In July, Gannett announced it will move the Republics printing operations to Las Vegas in October, laying off more than 100 workers. And last week, five rural newspapers were abruptly shut down because of their Illinois-based parent companys financial problems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not certain how many reporters will eventually leave the Republic or other Gannett-owned newspapers. The buyout offers deadline is on Sept. 8. Reporters, including those whove already been confirmed they would accept the buyout, have until that date to change their minds or take the offer. Richard Ruelas, the president of the Arizona Republic Guild, said that several people at the paper are mulling whether to take the buyout, but wouldnt confirm the exact number. The bright spot, Ruelas said, is that the offers are voluntary and represent a welcome departure from the layoffs of the past. These are people who get to decide to leave of their own accord, of their own volition, with their head held high, he said. I hope we get to celebrate them because another option that Ive been around for in my time at the Republic has been involuntary layoffs and with that situation we havent got to say goodbye to people. This is much preferable. Ruelas wouldnt say what is prompting Republic employees to consider the buyouts, but noted that in the past, reporters who have accepted similar deals did so with retirement in mind, or other opportunities. People have varying reasons to go, he said. (They) will only take the deal if it makes sense for them, if they think its in their best interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the end, Ruelas said, the health of the states largest newspaper and the future of journalists across the state is dependent on public support. For those of us who do this, we love it, he said. Its a job out of passion and we need the business to succeed. If you like journalism and want to support journalists, support your journalism outlet with your dollars. Consume the work we do, pay for the work we do. ***CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story included incorrect information about the number of papers that Gannett owns. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE KANSAS CITY, Mo. Police are investigating a crash that left one motorcyclist dead in Gardner, Kansas, on Wednesday evening. According to the Gardner Police Department, just before 6:30 p.m., officers went to the area of 189th Terrace and Gardner Road on reports of a two-vehicle crash. Initial investigations reveal that a motorcyclist had been driving southbound on Gardner Road when he hit a Toyota Camry turning westbound onto a private drive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 1 killed, 6 hurt in Kansas City crash after driver flees from sergeant, police say Emergency responders performed life-saving measures on the motorcyclist, but he later died from his injuries while personnel were on the scene. He has since been identified as 32-year-old Joshua Johnson. The driver and passenger of the Toyota suffered minor injuries in the crash. At this time, the Johnson County Accident Investigation Unit and the Gardner Police Department are still investigating the crash. However, they believe speed may have been a factor. If you or anyone you know witnessed the crash, police ask that you call the Gardner Police Department at (913) 856-7312. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Thursday unveiled a California ballot initiative aimed at offsetting a controversial redistricting ploy by Republicans in Texas ahead of next years congressional elections. The initiative, called the Election Rigging Response Act, asks California voters to approve early congressional redistricting if Texas goes forward with its own redistricting plan that would likely eliminate five Democratic congressional seats there. Newsoms plan, if it is approved in a special election in November, would equally target five House Republicans in the Golden State. Related: Donald Trump's Sylvester Stallone Announcement Takes Aggravating Turn For Many Today is liberation day in the state of California, Newsom said at an event with other California Democratic officials in Los Angeles. Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and we will punch back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant unilaterally disarm and watch this democracy disappear, district by district, all across this country, he added. Dozens of federal immigration agents raided the neighborhood where Newsoms press conference was held on Thursday. You think its coincidental? he asked at the event. Wake up America, this is a serious moment. Wake up to the fear, the anxiety. BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED! pic.twitter.com/Bu4gmbeY40 Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 14, 2025 Newsom has his work cut out for him convincing Californians to approve the plan, according to a POLITICO poll released on Thursday. Just 36% of the polls respondents support returning congressional redistricting authority to state lawmakers, as Newsom is asking, instead of keeping it with Californias independent redistricting commission. To pass a statewide ballot initiative in California, a simple majority of votes is required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, members of that independent commission are also urging voters to support Newsoms plan, calling the Republican push to gerrymander Democrats out of office in Texas and other GOP-controlled states a major threat to democracy. Im here to be humble, to set aside the good work of California, but I do so with the expectation that it is a one-time occurrence [and] that this does not subvert the will of the people of California, California independent redistricting commissioner Sara Sadhwani said at Newsoms event on Thursday. Related: Hillary Clinton Spells Out Exactly How Trump Could Win The Nobel Peace Prize National Republicans responded by accusing Newsom of putting on a stunt that is designed to further his 2028 presidential ambitions. Related: 'Everyone Is So Scared': Inside The Smithsonian As Trump Attacks Art, History Newsoms made it clear: hell shred Californias Constitution and trample over democracy running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority, National Republican Campaign Committee spokesman Christian Martinez said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, a group of Texas Democrats who fled their state in protest of Texas Republicans drawing new congressional maps announced Thursday they are prepared to return to the Lone Star state this week if the state legislature adjourns on Friday. Trump thought he could easily get his way in Texas with compliant Republicans, but Democrats fought back ferociously and took the fight to Trump across America, Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wusaid in a statement. When the legislature adjourns sine die and California introduces its maps, we will return to the House floor and to the courthouse with a clear message: the fight to protect voting rights has only just begun. More on Politics Donald Trump Reveals What He Told Melania After Hunter Bidens Epstein Relationship Comments Costco Won't Dispense Abortion Pill, And Conservatives Are Celebrating Newsom Says California Will Redraw Its BEAUTIFUL MAPS In All-Caps Post Mocking Trump Read the original on HuffPost Gavin Newsom has been speaking Donald Trump on social media the past few days! Sean Rayford / Getty Images The California governor has threatened to redraw the state's districts unless Trump steps in to stop Texas's redistricting. Related: I Literally Cannot Stop Laughing At These Weekend Tweets That Made Me Spit Out My Coffee After hitting his 24-hour deadline with no response from Trump, it looks like the redistricting is on. On Thursday morning, Gov. Newsom tweeted, "Donald Trump and Greg Abbott are going to have a very bad day today." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: "It's Adding An Absurd Amount Of Joy To My Life" The 21 Best, Funny, Most Wholesome Posts Online This Week Welllll, ol' Teddy Cruz decided to insert himself into the drama. Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images In a now-deleted tweet, the Texas senator said, "If California gerrymanders from its current 43-9 Dem advantage (83%) to a 51-0 Dem advantage (100%)... then Texas should go from a 24-14 GOP advantage (63%) to 38-0 (100%)." Related: 22 People Who Are Already Having A Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, REALLY Rough 2025 The only problem with that 43+9 isn't 51... It's 52. ABC Newsom jumped on this, correcting him and saying, "Please learn math." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: 42 Wildly Entitled People Who Thought The World Revolved Around Them He doubled down with another tweet: "Ted Cruz treating his posts like Cancun: Gets caught, then disappears." I guess we'll see what news he has in store for us today! Mega / Getty Images Also in Internet Finds: "It's Exhausting Working With Them": 18 Older Women Are Sharing The Mind-Boggling Habits Of Gen Z'ers And Millennials That Really Grind Their Gears Also in Internet Finds: "I Dont Think My Husband Has Stopped Laughing For An Hour": I Laughed So Hard At These 29 Absolutely Hilarious Fails From Last Week, I Am For Sure Going Straight To The Bad Place Also in Internet Finds: 21 Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Dark And Tragic Wiki Pages About Missing People Read it on BuzzFeed.com California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) tore into President Donald Trump on Thursday as he declared that his state will move forward with a partisan redistricting proposal. While speaking at the Japanese American National Museum, Newsom announced that he plans to proceed with his own redrawing campaign in an attempt to pass new lines that would be favorable to the Democratic Party ahead of the 2026 midterms. His proposal, titled the Election Rigging Response Act, comes as a direct response to a Republican effort in Texas to add up to five safe House seats in a new congressional map. Democratic lawmakers have fled the state to block a vote on the strategy, which is backed by Trump. In his remarks, Newsom called for a special election on Nov. 4 for California voters to decide on new maps. If passed, he added that they would take effect if Texas successfully enacts its proposal, and will then remain in place until the 2030 census. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We know what Donald Trump knows, Newsom told the audience. Hes going to lose... Why else would he try to rig the system? Newsom went on to call Trump a failed president and the most unpopular in modern history. He pointed to the presence of U.S. Border Patrol agents, who detained at least one person, outside of the news conference, multiple outlets reported. Who else sends ICE [at the] same time were having a conversation like this? Newsom said. Someone whos weak. Someone whos broken. Someone whose weakness is masquerading as strength. Newsom: "He's a failed president. Who else sends ICE at the same time we're having a conversation like this? Someone who's weak. Someone who's broken. Someone whose weakness is masquerading as strength." pic.twitter.com/QWzcxmoqFw Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 14, 2025 Newsom pledged to meet fire with fire, saying that Trump tried to light democracy on fire on Jan. 6, and is now once again trying to rig the system." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He doesnt play by a different set of rules he doesnt believe in the rules. As a consequence, we need to disabuse ourselves of the way things have been done, Newsom said. Its not good to just hold hands, have a candlelight vigil and talk about the way the world should be. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, he continued. While the Democrats proposed California maps have yet to be released, they are anticipated to come to light on Friday. Lawmakers are expected to quickly approve them next week, given Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers of the state Legislature. State lawmakers are also required to officially declare the special election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back, Newsom, who is widely viewed as a potential 2028 presidential contender, said alongside other Democrats. Meanwhile, Texas Republicans signaled that they may end their legislatures current session on Friday and immediately call a new one to continue pushing the map. CNN reported that Texas Democrats met privately on Tuesday to discuss next steps as they decide whether to return. The GOP-led effort has since sparked a nationwide standoff, with Newsom and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) looking to propose his own redistricting plan in response. It remains unclear how voters will ultimately respond to Californias plan, given it is a way to sidestep an independent commission that has been given the power to draw the states maps since 2010. In recent weeks, Newsom, using his press office account, has also taken aim at Trump on social media as he hinted toward his official announcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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!), the account wrote on Tuesday. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Today is Liberation Day in the state of California, Gavin Newsom proclaimed today in downtown L.A. of the legislative effort to stop Donald Trump from rigging the system with gerrymandering and other blows against American democracy. I know they say dont mess with Texas, well dont mess with the great Golden State. Weve got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, Newsom added in his new-ish Resistor-in-Chief role. Weve got to meet fire with fire, the governor went on to say, asking for a National Commission on redistricting. He also noted, to jeers, the presence of masked ICE and DHS agents outside the rally venue of the Democracy Center in downtown L.A. More from Deadline TRUMPS PRIVATE ARMY IS ILLEGALLY ON PRIVATE PROPERTY!!!! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY THIS WEAK LITTLE MAN!!! https://t.co/13nJL6JRvG Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 14, 2025 Seeking the backing of the legislature in Sacramento to level the electoral playing field after the GOP-ruled Lone Star state rewrote the rules to give Trump five new Congressional seats, Newsom is aiming for a Special Election on November 4 to give Democrats five more seats in California. On pause until the likes of Florida and Missouri make their own gerrymanderiing moves or not, Newsoms plan, if successful, would effectively blunt the increasingly very unpopular Trumps hopes of holding onto a majority in the House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House was a little too fast on the X trigger in its response from Communications Director Steven Cheung. What a Coward and Beta Cuck. @GavinNewsom is too chicken shit to take questions from the press after gives an incoherent speech. He'll never be ready for prime time. https://t.co/XNKzRvYlxu Steven Cheung (@StevenCheung47) August 14, 2025 We are not going to sit back passively Donald Trump does not play fair, Newsom said in a press conference he held right after his speech. Confident hell get the 2/3 majority needed for the Election Rigging Response Act to pass the Legislature, the Governor promised the redistricting maps will be released soon. I imagine other states will consider their own path, he said of other Blue States in the nation. As promised, in Newsoms trolling of Trump on social media the past two weeks, the California governors event was draped as an all-caps and more HISTORIC BEAUTIFUL RALLY. He knows his Presidency ends in 17 months, the Governor said Thursday of Trump, who Democrats have already threatened with a third impeachment if they retake Congress. Hes a failed president, Newsom went on to lambaste Trump to cheers from the invited audience, repeating his frequent condemnation of the TACO POTUS as having weakness masquerading as strength. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taking questions today in the Oval Office before heading off to sit down tomorrow in Alaska with Vladimir Putin, who had to get a special dispensation to attend and not be arrested as a war criminal, Trump said that without his taking over the California National Guard and Marines earlier this year to quell protests against ruthless and often warrantless immigration raids earlier this summer, L.A. wouldnt be existent today. Revealing his true priorities Trump added: We would have had to cancel the Olympics if I let that go on. Other Blue states need to stand up, Newsom declared at his own rally, with an eye perhaps to another election in 2028. Still fighting Trump in court over POTUS taking over putting the California National Guard on the streets of L.A., the term-limited Newsom has emerged as the de facto leader of the opposition in the absence of Barack Obama, Kamala Harris and others on the national stage. In short, if Gavin Newsom is running for President, as many have assumed he will, today was also a campaign launch by any other name. Or to paraphrase Trump, as Sen. Adam Schiff did in his remarks, Donald Trump, thank you for your attention in this matter. Raising the bar on his social media platforms and front-facing postures since the New Year, Newsom has earned the nickname Newscum from Trump and a clear personal vendetta where once the duo had a Cold War stance during the ex-Celebrity Apprentice hosts first term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More low-key in execution than the MAGA love-ins Trump flourishes in, Newsoms gathering slammed the violent ICE abductions rampaging through California and other Blue States, the dismissing of court orders, the bullying of institutions, attacks on the Constitution, the loss of Roe v. Wade, and, in the words of Lorena Gonzalez, head of the California AFL-CIO, the f*cking billionaires who are causing this problem in the first place. The point of Thursdays get together was to take action on the West Coast on the Election Rigging Response Act in reaction to gerrymandering efforts in Texas to redistrict in the hopes of maintaining or increasing GOP majority in the House of Representatives in next years still scheduled midterms. However, Newsom and others were also full throated in their intent that Californias measures will halt Trumps authoritarianism and attacks on democracy. To that, as to be expected, the Democrats core issues of abortion rights, education, healthcare, LGBTQ+ rights, and more were also on the agenda. With an American flag center stage, in attendance were both of the Golden States Senators, Schiff (You dont poke the bear, he told the crowd) and Padilla, various state reps, as well as the Democrats core supporters of union chiefs, Planned Parenthood leaders and social justice advocates. Streamed online, the reaction to Republican efforts to rig the 2024 elections with redistricting and the seven months of Trumps chaos, as Senator Alex Padilla termed it, the gathering was covered live in part by MSNBC and Fox News, but ignored by CNN and the BBC for continued reporting on Trumps summit with Putin Friday in Americas northern most state. The anti-gerrymandering assembly was absent also from the homepages of the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post and The New York Times. Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Pete Buttigieg once had a ready answer about the U.S.-Israel relationship, likening it to a friendship in which you try to guide them to a better place. It's a line that used to go over well with the "Pod Save America" guys, who once clapped for and nodded along with it on stage back in 2019. But this week they no longer did. The politics of the Israel-Hamas conflict and its center of gravity have changed. And Democrats are searching for solid ground. Across the partys still-inchoate 2028 presidential field, ambitious Democrats like Buttigieg are reevaluating their positions and staking out their territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) said his position is evolving. Governors like Wes Moore of Maryland and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, both staunch defenders of Israel, are keeping their powder dry and declining to engage on nuts and bolts policy questions. Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who carried the nomination in 2024, did not comment for this story through a spokesperson. Democrats like all Americans, but certainly Democrats are sickened by whats happening and trying to hold several things in mind at the same time, all of which can be true: that what has to happen next is the killing has to end," the former transportation secretary told POLITICO in an interview Wednesday. "The hostages have to come home. And the people of Gaza need aid unimpeded, and all of that should be happening immediately. It was a sharper response than his interview with "Pod Save America" host Jon Favreau when he received swift blowback for a nonanswer. When your friend kills 60,000 people and starves an entire population for months at a time, shouldnt the question be: Why the fuck am I friends with this guy? said a Democratic strategist who was in the room with Buttigieg back in 2019 and whose positions have changed since then. The strategist is unaligned among the current crop of potential candidates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I get it, Buttigieg said of the criticism of his podcast interview. It's important to be clear about something this enormous and this painful. It's just that it's so enormous and it's so painful that sometimes words can fail. The response to Buttigieg, normally one of the Democratic Partys most skilled communicators, was telling. Democrats have recalibrated on Israel, and that's already reverberating across the shadow campaign trail as the U.S. relationship with Israel is fast becoming a key litmus test ahead of the 2028 Democratic primary. The Democratic National Committee is weighing two different resolutions on the matter, with progressives pushing for elected Democrats to endorse an arms embargo on Israel and recognize a Palestinian state. Buttigieg said he would have signed on to Sen. Bernie Sanders' proposed arms embargo against Israel, would recognize Palestine as part of a two-state solution and thought the U.S. should not pass another 10-year agreement between the U.S. and Israel on foreign military aid carte blanche. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif), who hit Buttigieg's original answer on "Pod Save America," said in an interview that its going to be a defining issue in the Democratic Party in the midterms and for 2028. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel is not acting like an ally now, defying our presidents, violating our values and compromising our interests in the Middle East," said Khanna, who is calling for the U.S. to recognize a Palestinian state and arguing America should stop sending weapons that kill civilians to Israel. Israel emerges as an early litmus test for 2028 It's already shaping how future presidential candidates are thinking about running. One of the lessons from 2024 was steadfastly standing by Israel, no qualifications, was not an acceptable position, so Democrats are reading the room correctly, said one adviser to a potential 2028 candidate. But the adviser argued, beyond helping separate the truly progressive candidates from less progressive candidates," its unclear how defining an issue Israel will be in the 2028 presidential race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Groups on both sides hope it will be. Democratic Majority for Israel president Brian Romick said in a statement that 2028 is a long way off but one thing is clear: the US-Israel relationship has been strong for generations and we expect that Democrats running in 2028 who want to win the presidency not only get that but will stand strong with our ally. There is no question that this is a challenging moment in the U.S.-Israel relationship but despite these circumstances, we know our party's support for Israel is strong," he added. Pro-Palestinian group IMEU Policy Project, meanwhile, said it is planning television ad buys in early primary voting states targeting any would-be presidential hopefuls who wont commit to restricting weapons to Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Israel starves children and targets journalists in Gaza, the overwhelming majority of Democratic voters are clear that they support cutting off weapons to Israel," IMEU Policy Project Executive Director Margaret DeReus said in a statement. "It is absurd that so many figures who are reportedly hoping to lead the Democratic Party as its next presidential nominee are still on the opposite side of their own voters on this crucial question. The group has already targeted Gallego, running an ad last week during his visit to Iowa that called him out for skipping votes on resolutions to bar weapons sales to Israel. Gallegos office initially told POLITICO he missed the vote because he has been on paternity leave and would have voted to continue selling weapons to Israel. But he later said Israels plan to occupy Gaza City warrants a review of how the U.S. provides aid to Israel and that I do think that we have to condition our aid on Israel and the use of weapons. My position, he said at a town hall, has always kind of been evolving with the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Buttigieg, the father of 4-year-old twins, he said the images out of Gaza have made the issue less an academic exercise and now a more visceral one. For anybody, looking at images of children starving and suffering and dying is horrifying, but I do think it's different when you're a parent. I think as a parent, you see these awful images of starving children with their ribs showing and automatically, you imagine your own kids. Bernie Sanders proposed arms sales ban becomes a Dem inflection point The demand for humanitarian aid to Gaza helped convince some senators to back a ban on weapons sales to Israel. That resolution was supported by a majority of the Senate Democratic Caucus, including drawing 12 new supporters who had previously voted against the idea. Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who ran for president in 2020, also joined Sanders resolutions, a notable shift for the moderate senator. In a statement, she said, in part, Ive supported military assistance to Israel in the past But I believe at this moment in time its crucial that the Israeli government must do more to alleviate the urgent humanitarian crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feckless Democrats have turned on Israel over the Gaza war, Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) texted POLITICO after voting against the resolution. I only blame Hamas and Iran for this tragedy. Im the Democrat thats unapologetically all-in with Israel. He remains one of the most pro-Israel voices in his party, even as many other Democrats have become more critical. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a moderate, did not vote on the resolution, though his office said the Arizona senator would have also opposed it if he were in town. Democratic governors, some of whom are running for reelection next year, are somewhat more insulated from issue-defining votes, but theyre still getting asked about it by voters. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz acknowledged during town halls this spring that the 2024 campaign fell short in recognizing voters anger over Gaza, adding it needs to be spoken that theres the angst over Gaza and things that needed to be addressed. He said this month he expects the conflict in Israel to still be an issue for 2028. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore, who has previously offered a full-throated defense of Israel's right to defend itself, declined to comment. Shapiro, a pro-Israel moderate who has been critical of Netanyahu, doubled down on his condemnation of the prime minster last week, saying that his rhetoric and alliance with President Donald Trump have left the nation increasingly isolated. It is awful what is happening in Gaza, and we all have a responsibility to be there for those children, he told reporters. I thought it was also quite abhorrent what Prime Minister Netanyahu said roughly a week or so ago when he said there is no starvation in Gaza. He is wrong. A spokesperson for Shapiro declined to comment on his position on Sanders resolution. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who recently made a trip to the early state of South Carolina, said in a statement to POLITICO that Trump should insist that the United States, with Israels cooperation, provide food assistance to the people and children suffering and starving in Gaza. Such basic humanitarian aid must be provided, while Israel ensures its ability to defend itself. A spokesperson declined to comment on Beshears position on Sanders resolution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker endorsed humanitarian aid to Palestinians without directly addressing the policy questions surrounding military aid. "The purpose of the resolution seems to have been to send a message that Israel needs to deliver food aid to people who are starving in Gaza, and I wholeheartedly agree with that sentiment," said Pritzker. "I'm all for us making sure that the Israelis work with us and [the] international community to deliver food to people who need it. Buttigieg sees a larger paradigm shift on the issue. Following the blowback this week to his response on the podcast, Buttigieg is now trying to directly answer Democrats questions about his positions on Israel. Asked whether a Palestinian state should be recognized, Buttigieg told POLITICO a two-state solution has to come in the context of a credible and enforceable and negotiated process. I think that if you just try to do it unilaterally, it's not going to change anything for people on the ground, and it'll just be words on a page. As for passing more decade-long military aid packages, Buttigieg said we have to shift to a more case by case approach, instead of a blanket approach. And, he added, Netanhayu's military campaign is even more horrifying when you contemplate that this is happening with U.S. support." Lisa Kashinsky, Brakkton Booker, Shia Kapos and Melanie Mason contributed to this report. Gazan resident Mahmoud Hamdan says that Palestinians, caught between Israel and Hamas, have 'no clear political alternative' As Israel moves to seize Gaza City, dismantle Hamas, and keep a long-term military presence, local medical staff reported at least 48 dead Tuesday in strikes across Gaza City and Khan Yunis. Five more people, including two children, have died of starvation and malnutrition in Gaza in the past 24 hours, the territorys health ministry said. Critics warn that Netanyahus Oct. 7, 2025, deadline for seizing Gaza City could uproot thousands more residents and further deepen the political vacuum left by Hamas retreat and the Palestinian Authoritys 18-year absence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That gap is already being contested on the ground: clan-based militias are stepping into governance roles, mediating disputes and escorting aid convoys in parts of the Strip. Rooted in Bedouin and clan traditions, these kinship systems have long mediated disputes, distributed aid and maintained social order when formal government structures faltered. The war has brought them back to the forefront, operating as de facto municipal authorities in many neighborhoods. A Hamas-free pocket in eastern Rafah controlled by the clan-based Popular Forces of Yasser Abu Shabab has emerged as an example of an alternative local order. Its future is uncertain, but the enclave is drawing attention as both an anomaly and a possible preview of postwar governance. The Yasser Abu Shabab Popular Forces Facebook page followed by more than 30,000 people describes the group as The voice of truth against terrorism for a safe homeland for all and labels its feed as the groups media office. Operating in the eastern sector of Rafah, near the GazaEgypt border, the group showcases its activities through frequent online updates. Image of militia leader Yasser Abu Shabab. (credit: SECTION 27A COPYRIGHT ACT) In a July 30 video, Abu Shabab said his forces carried out a special operation evacuating dozens of civilians from Deir al-Balah, Nuseirat and Khan Yunis to safe areas under their control in eastern Rafah. The group said it spent months building the refuge to shelter Gazans still suffering from Hamas' looting and repression. On July 31, it said its fighters secured and imported dozens of trucks carrying flour and other supplies, and on Aug. 6, it reported escorting a large number of trucks loaded with food, flour and cooking oil out of its territory. Hamas's replacement Omar Salim, 22, a student from Rafah, told The Media Line that Yasser Abu Shabab and his fighters were one of the few realistic options for ending Hamas' rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What Yasser Abu Shababs popular forces are doing is probably the best option weve got right now. We just want peace we dont want to be ruled by armed groups like Hamas that drag us into war. Were sick of it, Salim said. Sure, they still need to get better organized, but theyre working on it. These days, a lot of families are moving into areas controlled by the popular forces because they feel safer there than in the neighborhoods where Hamas militias are still around. In Deir al-Balah, Ibrahim Ahmed, 36, who worked at a local mobile phone shop until the 2023 war began, described the chaos and deprivation now gripping Gaza as mired in uncertainty, with many grappling with anxiety about what lies ahead. People rush to stockpile food and medicine, he said, but soaring prices and persistent shortages complicate these efforts. Ahmed told The Media Line he sees no alliances among the warring factions. Israeli forces have largely subdued Hamas, which now clings to a mere handful of weapons, primarily to instill fear among civilians and quash dissent, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas' claims about readiness to resist an Israeli takeover of Gaza City are hollow media posturing a facade for maintaining their waning influence. He added that the Palestinian Authority appears increasingly irrelevant, while armed groups like Abu Shabab navigate freely within Israeli-controlled territories and avoid conflict with Israeli forces. This dynamic suggests Israel may turn to these clans during a potential period of military governance, positioning them as a counterbalance to both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, Ahmed warned. Mr. Netanyahu and the Israeli military are cultivating a new power structure. But Gaza risks descending into civil war and chaos. Meanwhile, Hamas' feared counterintelligence Sahm unit continues to kill, torture, maim and intimidate Palestinians in Gaza, with the group posting graphic images and videos of its actions on a Telegram channel believed to be operated from Belgium. The footage shows detainees beaten, bound and in some cases executed, as the unit seeks to stamp out suspected dissent or collaboration. Other Facebook videos last week showed a convoy of masked, rifle-waving fighters patrolling a Gaza neighborhood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the platform one of the few spaces where Gazans can safely vent about the suffering caused by Israels war and Hamas' grip on their streets users mocked the fighters covered faces and apparent comfort amid civilian hunger and deprivation. Mahmoud Hamdan, 41, a father of three from Gaza City, said a military operation to reclaim the city is unlikely to unite factions; instead, it may deepen divisions, fragment communities and increase violence. Palestinian civilians suffer the most, Hamdan told The Media Line, trapped between Israel and Hamas, with no control or refuge in their homes amid the chaos. He sees no clear political alternative neither from clan factions nor possible Arab troop involvement. In his view, the main aim is strengthening Netanyahus power, with the prime minister manipulating the situation with Hamas to justify his controversial political moves. Hamdans fears of Gaza sliding toward civil war come as even some of Hamas' staunchest foreign patrons signal a shift. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pivoting from years of alignment with Hamas, Qatar and Turkey two of the movements most reliable political and financial backers joined other Arab and Muslim-majority states on July 29, 2025, in a joint declaration urging the group to return control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority and disarm. At the same time, a new technocratic governance plan is being advanced by former Israeli intelligence operative Ari Ben-Menashe, now a Montreal-based lobbyist, who is positioning West Bank businessman Samir Hulileh to lead a transitional administration under an Arab League framework acceptable to the Trump administration if not all elements of the Netanyahu cabinet. That includes far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has openly called for the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza and the resettlement of the Strip with Jewish Israelis, a vision sharply at odds with any internationally backed governance arrangement. The Hulileh concept envisions securing $53 billion in Gulf and European reconstruction funding, expanded border crossings, and up to 1,000 aid trucks a day a top-down blueprint dependent on Arab and US endorsement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hulileh, 68, is a Ramallah-based economist and former senior Palestinian Authority official with no political or professional ties to Gaza. Born in Kuwait in 1957, he earned a masters in economics from the American University of Beirut. He later served as CEO of the Palestine Development and Investment Company, one of the largest investment holding firms in the territories. A close confidant of US-Palestinian billionaire Bashar Masri, founder of Rawabi and head of Massar International, Hulileh has been involved in major West Bank development projects. Masris investment network and political connections, including with the Trump administration, could help secure foreign capital and diplomatic support for the plan. Speaking to the Palestinian Ajyal radio on Tuesday, Hulileh said, In July 2024, I received a call from a Canadian contractor who was working closely with the US administration and the Pentagon on their search for moderate Palestinian figures. Hulileh added, I then reached out to President Mahmoud Abbas informally, hoping to gain his essential support and endorsement for the initiative, saying Israel firmly rejected the proposal, as did several Arab states that were expected to provide financial backing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Palestinian presidency has rejected the idea, saying it would aid Israeli efforts to separate Gaza from the West Bank. While Hulilehs candidacy reflects a top-down, internationally backed vision for Gazas governance, Yasser Abu Shababs Popular Forces is a homegrown operation run through Gazas tribal networks. Azzam Shaath, a political analyst from Deir al-Balah, told The Media Line the rise of Abu Shabab stems from the exceptional circumstances created by the Israeli war on the Strip. He argued that Israel has tried to cultivate tribal and local leadership as alternatives to Hamas and the Palestinian Authority but has failed to produce any credible Palestinian civil body capable of managing aid or leading Gaza after the war. Shaath said Israel works with Abu Shabab to sow further instability, dismantle Hamas' rule and create the illusion of viable Palestinian alternatives. In reality, he views the group as a temporary, reactive phenomenon that will likely fade once the war ends and Palestinian factions agree on a unified governing committee. As long as the conflict drags on, Abu Shabab will keep a limited foothold by exploiting the security vacuum and the absence of formal governance. JENKINS COUNTY, Ga. (WJBF) The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has arrested a Perkins man Tuesday on several charges, after incidents were reported to the Jenkins County Sheriffs office last week. Wayne Leo Chance, age 51, was charged with one count of Disorderly Conduct, four counts of Terroristic Threats, and one count of Impersonating a Police Officer. Chance was arrested on Aug. 12, 2025, after he turned himself in to the Jenkins County Jail. According to the Jenkins County Sheriffs Office, Chance was a former employee. Because of the circumstances, the GBI became responsible for the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GBI stated in an Aug. 13 press release that Chance allegedly confronted four people riding ATVs on a county-maintained road. At the time of the incident, Chance was driving a non-law enforcement vehicle equipped with activated construction-style warning lights, the statement reads in part. Chance reportedly portrayed himself as a police officer and made threats of violence toward the group. Once the investigation is complete, the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorneys Office will prosecute the case. Chance has since bonded out. He had his first appearance August 13th and was given a bond of $26,000 per Magistrate Judge Wanda Burke. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was given special conditions to adhere to if he was to post bond: not leave the jurisdiction of this court without permission from the court. not violate any criminal laws of any governmental unit stay away, absolutely, directly or indirectly, by person, telephone, electronic methods, or through third party of/from the person, home, family, job, place of worship, daycare or school of the 4 victims shall not be physically abusice or threaten physical abuse toward anyone not own or possess any firearm, firearm ammunitions, or parts of a firearm. not own or possess any baton be on house arrest for the indefinite period of time with the exception of work, doctor, court, meet with an attorney, or crisis management 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 WJBF. ATLANTA (WJBF) Its been nearly a year since Hurricane Helene tore through Georgia, leaving behind catastrophic damage to farms across the state. Now, Georgia leaders are pushing for federal block grants to help farmers still reeling from the disaster. State Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper says the storm caused $5.5 billion in damage, devastating farm families like his own. It impacted farm families in a way weve never seen before, Harper said. My own family farm was impacted. The eye of the storm went over my home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Georgias agriculture industry, which is valued at $91 billion, employs thousands and supports communities statewide. Of the states 40,000 farms, about 25,000 were damaged by Helene. To date, Georgia has distributed $300 million in state funds to help farmers recover lost income, crops, and property. But state leaders say thats not enough. Harper said theyre in the final stages of negotiations with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to secure more federal disaster funding. We are at the one-yard line, Harper said. Every dollar from this block grant will go directly to Georgia producers. The state is also creating new relief programs to fill gaps where traditional federal disaster aid doesnt apply, ensuring farmers get support even if they fall outside standard USDA and FSA programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF. Geraldo Rivera thinks that President Donald Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prizeeven if he doesnt actually deliver any peace. The former talk show host and Fox News personality appeared on Newsmaxs Finnerty on Wednesday morning to discuss the U.S. effort to end the war in Ukraine. If he does end this war, Geraldo, can they deny him the Nobel Peace Prize? host Rob Finnerty asked. Hell no, Rivera said. I think that this and/or Gaza would put him on the fast track, and anyone to deny that, I think, would really be putting their partisan politics in front of their logic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have a president of the United States trying so hard... for peace, even if hes not totally successful, just the effort is so, its so overt, its so public, its so aggressive. You know, he deserves recognition at least for that. Geraldo Rivera (top left) and Donald Trump on The Celebrity Apprentice in 2015. Rivera and Trump go way back, stretching back to their days in New York together in the 1970s. / REUTERS Rivera, a longtime Republican who describes himself as socially liberal, has said that Trump was the first rich guy [he] ever knew and that the two were close friends for decades. However, the TV personality told Interview Magazine that their friendship ended after January 6, which Rivera said showed Trump was a sore loser who could not be trusted to honor the Constitution. Rivera endorsed Kamala Harris in 2024, but now he seems to have changed his tune. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both the war in Ukraine and the war in Gaza seem far away from resolution, despite Trumps upcoming summit with Vladimir Putin on Friday to discuss the conflict. On Wednesday, Trump was asked if Putin would face any consequences if he did not agree to stop the war after their meetingwhich will take place without the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. There will be very severe consequences, he said, without specifying what those consequences will be. REPORTER: Will Russia face any consequences if Putin does not agree to stop the war after your meeting? TRUMP: Yes, they will R: What will they be? Sanctions? Tariffs? TRUMP: I don't have to say. There will be very severe consequences. pic.twitter.com/cYarM7vAhA Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 13, 2025 Meanwhile, the Israeli government announced plans to occupy Gaza City last week in order to free Gaza from Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus announcement sparked an international outcry and an arms embargo from Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, Netanyahu formally nominated Trump for the Nobel Prize, which has been awarded to three U.S. presidents (most recently to Barack Obama in 2008). Former President Barack Obama smiles during the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. Obama won the award for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples. / JEWEL SAMAD / AFP via Getty Images Netanyahus letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee praised Trump for his role in negotiating the Abraham Accords in 2020 and claimed that Trump was forging peace, as we speak, in one country in the region after another. Trump has made no secret that he wants the award and envies his predecessor for winning it. If I were named Obama, I would have had the Nobel Prize given to me in 10 seconds, he said at the Detroit Economic Club last year. Trump fought ISIS with intense air strikes in Iraq and Syria in his first term and ordered the assassination of a prominent Iranian general. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far in his second term, he has conducted airstrikes on Iran and suggested that the U.S. should occupy the Gaza Strip. Let the United States get involved and make it just a freedom zone, he said in March. A 74-year-old Germantown man died and his 74-year-old wife was taken to the hospital Monday, Aug. 11, after officials detected carbon monoxide in their home, police said. Germantown police and firefighters responded to a call at 8:30 a.m. of someone being in distress, police chief Patrick Merten said. When they arrived and entered the home, the carbon monoxide detectors the firefighters were wearing went off. Washington County was impacted by the August 2025 historic rainfall and flooding. The couple lived in the Riversbend Circle subdivision where residents experienced power outages and flooding on Aug. 12, according to police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merten said a generator powering some appliances was inside the homeowner's attached garage. He did not know which appliances, and said the generator could have been used as a backup for a pending power outage. He added carbon monoxide fumes may have traveled inside the house but that hasn't been determined. He said an autopsy is being done to confirm the cause of death. With more people using generators due to the historic flooding this past weekend, Merten said it is important to take precautions. What is carbon monoxide? Carbon monoxide is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website. It is created by the burning of items such as coal, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, natural gas and wood. Products and equipment powered by internal combustion engines such as portable generators, cars, lawn mowers and power washers also produce carbon monoxide. How to eliminate carbon monoxide poisoning while using generators? Merten said people need to make sure generators are only used in an area that is well-ventilated. He said generators should not be used if the garage is closed, and even if the garage is open the fumes can get inside the home. He also said it is important that power cords are not in water as that can cause electrocution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, a generator should never be used inside the home or garage even if doors and windows are open. In addition, generators should only be used outside and more than 20 feet away from one's home, doors and windows. Also, according to the CDC, carbon monoxide detectors should be installed near every sleeping area in the home. The detectors should be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. The CDC recommends checking or replacing the detectors battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall. What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, the symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include a headache, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, nausea, shortness of breath and chest pain. What should you do if you have experienced any of these symptoms? If someone experiences any of these symptoms, they should go outside the home for fresh air and call the local fire department. A person should not enter until the fire department says the home is safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: What can Wisconsinites keep and what should they throw away after a flood? More: Flooding can harm health even after water recedes. Here's how to protect yourself. Cathy Kozlowicz can be reached at 262-361-9132 or cathy.kozlowicz@jrn.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Germantown man dies due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning Germany has announced it will contribute up to $500 million to purchasing US-made military equipment for Ukraine. The German Defence Ministry and Foreign Office noted in the Wednesday announcement that the aid will be coordinated through a NATO mechanism called the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List. NATO is overseeing the delivery of Ukraine-bound weapons purchased in the United States. Funding for the initiative is coming from European partners and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to NATO, the aid will include military equipment that either cannot be produced by European manufacturers or can be delivered faster by the United States than by European allies or Canada. "I commend Germany for stepping up once again. This delivery will help Ukraine defend itself against Russian aggression," said NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in a statement. "Germany is the largest European contributor of military aid to Ukraine, and today's announcement further underlines its commitment to help the Ukrainian people defend their freedom and sovereignty," he added. Germany has spent a total of 80.5 million ($94 million) on land border controls from their introduction in mid-September 2024 through the end of June this year, the Interior Ministry said on Thursday. The figures were provided by the ministry following a parliamentary request by Left Party lawmaker Clara Bunger and then shared with dpa. The costs for deploying the federal police along Germany's borders with its neighbouring countries ranged between 24 million and 29.1 million per quarter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From April to the end of June 2025, the federal government spent about 8 million on officer meals and hotel accommodation. Almost 3 million went toward allowances for "duty at inconvenient times," 2.6 million was allocated to "command and operational resources," and nearly 2 million covered the operation of border stations. The largest expense by far was overtime pay, totalling 37.9 million in additional operational costs between September 2024 and June 2025. Checks along all of Germany's land borders were introduced in September 2024 as a temporary measure. Since then, they have been extended multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the normal rules of Europe's Schengen free-travel zone, land border controls are not permitted. Berlin justified the move as a means to curb irregular migration and to protect against Islamist terrorism and cross-border crime. The controls were further tightened in May, when Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative-led government took office. By Riham Alkousaa BERLIN (Reuters) -The German government is reviewing whether Afghans stranded in Pakistan while awaiting resettlement in Germany will indeed be allowed to go there, its interior minister said on Thursday, as Islamabad intensifies deportations of Afghans. Pakistan has begun to deport documented Afghan refugees ahead of its September 1 deadline for them to leave, according to the United Nations, a step that could see more than 1 million Afghans expelled from the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among them are more than 2,000 Afghans awaiting visas to travel to Germany under an admission programme designed to evacuate people considered to be at risk under Taliban rule in Pakistan's neighbour Afghanistan. A source familiar with the matter said detentions of Afghans for deportation over the border have continued, even during Pakistan's Independence Day holiday on Thursday. "People with German admission approval are being brought to the Torkham border (between Pakistan and Afghanistan) as we speak," the source told Reuters. German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt confirmed that some Afghans in Germany's resettlement scheme "have recently drawn the attention of Pakistani authorities", and Berlin was in discussions with Islamabad over their status. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are reviewing whether these people can actually leave for Germany. Whether this actually happens depends on the outcome of the review process," Dobrindt told journalists. Germany's admission programme for at-risk Afghans - launched in October 2022 by the centre-left government in office at the time - is now under review following February's migration-focused election won by conservatives. The new centre-right coalition intends to close the scheme, which had already been suspended pending an ongoing review. Since May 2021, Germany has admitted about 36,500 Afghans seen as vulnerable to Taliban crackdowns, but the conservative-led government says humanitarian migration now exceeds the country's integration capacity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Germany's foreign ministry said it was in close contact with Pakistani authorities and using established emergency mechanisms to prevent deportations of Afghans. The interior ministry said it could not provide a timeline to determine the future of the admission programme but expects decisions soon. It did not say whether the increase in deportations from Pakistan would hasten a decision. (Reporting by Riham Alkousaa, Markus Wacket, Martin Schlicht and Leon Malherbe in Berlin, Charlotte Greenfield in Islamabad; editing by Miranda Murray and Mark Heinrich) Regional leaders of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) voiced their anger on Thursday over the classification of another of the party's state branches as a confirmed far-right extremist group. The reaction came as authorities released on Thursday a redacted version of the 142-page asssessment that classified the AfD's branch in Brandenburg, which surrounds Berlin, as a confirmed far-right extremist group. Brandenburg's domestic intelligence chief Wilfried Peters said the party advocated for people who do not "belong to the German mainstream" to leave the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is about discrimination and exclusion," Peters said during the presentation of the report outlying the justifications for the classification. Brandenburg Interior Minister Rene Wilke said the far-right party has shown contempt for state institutions. Brandenburg's AfD parliamentary leader Hans-Christoph Berndt slammed the assessment, which was only released after a lengthy legal dispute and is based on findings by the domestic intelligence, as arbitrary. Berndt, addressing the state parliament in Potsdam, described the domestic intelligence agency as a "danger to democracy," accusing it of "making judgements" instead of weighing matters in a neutral manner. The Brandenburg branch of the anti-immigrant party is its fourth regional division to be classified as confirmed far-right extremist following the AfD branches in Thuringia, Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt - all states that were part of the former Communist East Germany. Germany's machinery and plant engineering industry has managed to maintain its core workforce above the 1-million mark, even as layoffs continue, a trade body said on Thursday. As of June 30, around 1.01 million people were employed in companies with more than 50 members of staff, according to the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA). This represents a 2% drop from a year earlier and marks the lowest level since the end of 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Job cuts are expected to continue in the coming months, albeit at a slower pace," said VDMA chief economist Johannes Gernandt. Data from the association's second-quarter business survey showed early signs of easing, though the VDMA does not expect overall employment to grow. Some cautious optimism The proportion of companies planning to expand their core workforce rose from about 17% in the first quarter to 20% in the second. More companies now anticipate a decrease in furlough programmes (29%) rather than an increase (19%). "This is an encouraging signal, but it is not enough to suggest a sustainable recovery," Gernandt cautioned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a strong start to the year, German industrial orders have recently declined as trade fights started by Washington and global uncertainty weigh on investment. However, with skilled workers in short supply, many companies are making efforts to retain staff as long as possible. Including smaller firms, the VDMA estimates that more than 1.2 million people were employed in Germany's machinery and plant engineering sector at the end of 2024. The death of a teenage girl who was left alone at a childrens mental health ward by an agency worker using fake ID has been ruled an unlawful killing by an inquest jury. Ruth Szymankiewicz was being treated for an eating disorder at Huntercombe Hospital, Berkshire, and had been placed under strict one-to-one observation when, on Feb 12 2022, she was left on her own by the member of staff responsible for watching her. The 14-year-old was able to shut herself in her bedroom at the hospitals psychiatric intensive care unit, also known as the Thames ward, where she self-harmed. She died at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford two days later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, an inquest jury sitting at coroners court in Beaconsfield, Bucks, returned a conclusion of unlawful killing. Ruth was left on her own by a staff member who was responsible for keeping an eye on her - PA The agency worker responsible for watching Ruth a man then known as Ebo Acheampong had never worked in a psychiatric hospital environment before coming to Huntercombe on Feb 12 2022 for his first shift. A police investigation later found he was hired by the Platinum agency which supplied staff for the hospital under a false name. Mr Acheampong never returned to work at the hospital following the incident and left the UK for Ghana. The court heard the ward was missing at least half of its staff on the day the girl, who had self-harmed several times in the past, was left unsupervised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Acheampong was originally working on a different ward, but was asked to join the team on Thames ward because they were so short-staffed that nurses could not go on breaks, jurors were previously told. The animal-loving 14-year-old was being treated for an eating disorder - PA A risk management form known as a Datix incident had been filed on the day by Michelle Hancey a support worker with 18 years of experience at Huntercombe who raised concerns that the Thames ward team would fail to monitor patients on prescribed special observation because of staff shortage. During the inquest, jurors were shown CCTV footage of the moment Mr Acheampong left Ruth unsupervised while she sat in the wards lounge watching TV, enabling her to leave the room. She had been placed on the level three observation plan following earlier incidents of self-harm, meaning she had to be kept within eyesight at all times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the footage, Mr Acheampong can be seen leaving the room repeatedly at first only for seconds at a time, then for two minutes prompting the teenager to walk up to the door and look into the lobby, seemingly waiting for the opportunity to leave the room. Ruth, seen playing with chickens, had a history of self-harm and had to be kept in sight at all times - PA She was last captured on CCTV walking out of the wards day room completely on her own before going to her bedroom and closing the door behind her, coroner Ian Wade KC told the inquest. Around 15 minutes passed before a nurse discovered Ruth and raised the alarm. Speaking after the inquest, her parents, Mark and Kate Szymankiewicz, described her as a loving and adventurous girl with a whole life of joy ahead of her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They added: When, at our most vulnerable as a family, we reached out for help; we ultimately found ourselves trapped in a system that was meant to care for her, to help her, to keep her safe, but instead locked her away and harmed her. The inquest has been a harrowing and traumatic process for us, not just in reliving the awful reality of her neglect, but also bringing to light even more than we had feared at the time. Huntercombe had been inspected twice by the Care Quality Commission prior to the incident, the inquest previously heard. It was rated as overall inadequate in a CQC report dated February 2021. Active Care Group, which owned Huntercombe at the time of Ruths death, has since closed the facility. 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 leader of a Girls Scout troop in New Jersey says she was removed from her position due to her social media posts that questioned the organizations perceived shift towards LGBTQIA+ activism and its introduction of gender sexuality alliance clubs to scouts. Alexandra Bougher, who is also the Bergen County chapter chair of Moms for Liberty, said she was fired in a phone call Wednesday with two members of the council of the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey. Moms for Liberty is a right-wing parents rights group that advocates against school curricula mentioning LGBTQ rights, race, and ethnicity. The Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks extremism organizations, identified Moms of Liberty as an anti-government organization and Bougher has appeared a few times on Fox News, speaking on behalf of the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im proud to stand up for the safety of our children and will always stand up to adults that push woke indoctrination to minors, Bougher posted on Facebook this week. You will not groom kids on my watch. Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey didnt return a phone call and emails from NJ Advance Media on Thursday asking for comment. Bougher said Girls Scout officials declined to tell her which of her posts violated their code of conduct but theorized it may have been about her comments taking a stance against a post the Girl Scouts of Northern New Jersey shared in June promoting Pride Month. I reposted it and I said, just to be clear, my troop will not be doing this Bougher said Thursday in a phone interview with NJ Advance Media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I guess thats the one, she said. They actually refused to tell me which one it was, but Im assuming it was that one since it was pulled off their site. Bougher, 45, had been a Girl Scout leader in her hometown of Park Ridge for seven years and led about 30 girls before being let go from her volunteer position. She said shes also been outspoken about other incidents involving a church that hosted a scouts event with an LGBTQ flag out front and an event in which a transgender teen spoke to the scouts about gender identity. This is not what Girl Scouts is about. It is highly inappropriate to talk about anything sexual in nature with small children. Thats not the role of a leader of a Girl Scout leader, and thats not happening during our meetings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bougher said she noticed the Girl Scouts becoming a more activist organization a few years ago but she continued to lead her troop and simply didnt bring them to any of those events. I saw the change with Girl Scouts a few years ago when some troops were taking their kids to Black Lives Matter marches, and that was not only OK, but they were sort of pushing it like this is so great, get them into activism. And we were like, this is not what Girl Scouts is about, and its also dangerous bringing young children there. We sort of saw that change and some other things too, but you know, I kept my my mouth shut, I kept my troop theyre all friends with each other. They can do those events and well do our own thing, you know." Bougher said things came to a head earlier this year when she posted on social media about other area troops attending events at a local church that hung a Progressive Pride flag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flag includes black and brown stripes to represent marginalized LGBTQ+ communities of color, along with the colors pink, light blue and white, which are used on the transgender pride flag. A pride flag is one thing but to put it in front of 5-year-olds that is going to open up a discussion and I dont think its appropriate for a troop leader to have that discussion with a child. Thats highly inappropriate to have in front of children. So we asked them to remove it. They would not. And so I made a social media post. I know (the church is) private, but when youre hosting childrens activities can you at least remove it when the kids are there? Why is it more important to to have it up in front of children? Like, why? She also said kept her troop away from an ice cream social event at the church in which a 13-year-old transgender girl took part in a discussion on gender identity. She said parents told her they werent comfortable with the event and I didnt feel comfortable with it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bougher said Girl Scouts officials told her on Wednesday she will no longer be a leader but wouldnt further explain her removal. They said, were here today to talk about your role as a leader, Bougher said. You will no longer be a leader, its a final decision. We will not be discussing it, well not be talking about it, weve already done that. Thats our final decision and its not changing. Not only that, you are not allowed to be a member anymore and neither can your daughter. A photo shared by Moms of Liberty, appearing to be a screenshot of a message sent by a Girl Scout leader known as a service unit manager addressed Boughers dismissal by encouraging other leaders to reach out to the council, which made the decision. We are all volunteers trying to be the best examples we can for our Girl Scouts. If you have any questions on Girl Scout Policies, please read thru the website for their mission statements. Tjey very clearly lay out where they stand on many important issues, the email said. Girls Scout policies state it is an inclusive organization that treats all members equally. A rush of glacial floodwater swept down Alaskas Mendenhall River on Wednesday morning, prompting evacuation warnings in parts of Juneau, seeping through flood barriers and flowing into a few neighborhoods. The floodwaters, which broke through a dam of glacial ice, are an example of how gradual shifts to the climate are sometimes punctuated by sudden drama that can rapidly reshape a landscape. Last year, hundreds of homes were flooded in Juneau when the river released a glacial outburst flood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didnt know it was coming, said Elizabeth Startz, a Juneau resident whose home was flooded last year. It did it overnight and neighbors were knocking on our windows and saying Get out. Startz said the risk of yearly floods might push her family away from the home they love and relocated to in hopes of escaping another flooding threat. We came from Texas, and we moved here to be away from hurricanes and flooding, Startz said Tuesday, before floodwaters crested. Theres no way Im going to do this year after year after year. Historically, glacial outburst floods are not infrequent in Alaska, and most take place far away from communities like Juneau or critical infrastructure in the vast, sparsely populated state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the climate warms and destabilizes systems in parts of Alaska, experts said the threat from this type of flooding is not becoming more common, in part because glaciers are retreating. Instead, areas under threat are shifting, catching at least one community by surprise so far. For every one that has started forming, theres one that has disappeared because the glacier no longer dams at that location, Mauri Pelto, a glaciologist and professor of environmental science at Nichols College, said of glacier-dammed lakes. The Mendenhall Glacier has produced yearly glacial outburst events since 2011, but most have been less significant than this year or last. Our beautiful glacier is melting, Startz said, adding that she viewed climate change as the culprit. This is the place to see it. People view Mendenhall Glacier from the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center on Aug. 3. (Marc Lester / Anchorage Daily News via AP) Glacial outburst flooding caused when natural dams of ice or sediment collapse and send a rush of floodwater downstream are also a problem in Europe, Central Asia and South America, where they have historically been more deadly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Glacial outburst floods have killed more than 12,000 people worldwide, according to estimates in the journal Global and Planetary Change. Most of those deaths took place in two events flooding in Huaraz, Peru, in 1941 and in Kedarnath, India, in 2013. A study published in Nature Communications in 2023 found that 90 million people across 30 countries lived in areas with glacial lakes. Of those, the study estimated, about 15 million were exposed to potential impacts from outbursts, mostly in India, China and Pakistan. Another 2023 study in Nature Communications identified at least 120 glacier-dammed lakes in Alaska. Of those lakes, 106 had drained since 1985. Most are in remote areas. To mitigate risk this year, the city of Juneau lined up miles of barriers along the river, which kept water from seeping into many neighborhoods, even though floodwaters crested higher. The barriers were paid for in part by Juneau residents in the flood zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were still evaluating the barriers, but we are confident they did help prevent property damage in comparison to the 2024 event, said Nahaku McFadden, a public affairs chief for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which assisted the city in designing the barrier system. How do glacial outbursts happen? Glaciers are slow-moving rivers of ice that inch down mountain slopes. In cold months, these bodies of ice accumulate mass as snowfall gets compacted. In summer, they shrink as meltwater drains away or if the glacier becomes unstable and sheds ice. The water that drains from glaciers flows first into rivers and then eventually out to the sea. But sometimes the flow of meltwater is blocked by a plug of glacial ice. As water accumulates, it tunnels below the glacier and can destabilize that plug of ice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once you get a substantial amount of water behind that ice plug, eventually it can float that ice and get underneath it. And because that water is warmer, it starts a positive feedback cycle and thermally erodes the ice, said Denny Capps, a geomorphologist who leads the national geohazards program at the National Park Service and has studied the phenomenon. Once triggered, they can go catastrophic and cause flooding several orders of magnitude beyond the greatest flood ever measured from rain and snowmelt, he added. In Alaska, glacial outburst floods are common in August because thats when runoff typically peaks, but theyre possible any time of year. Often, after water drains, the glaciers slow march downhill collapses ice and plugs the system back up again, restarting the cycle. Capps said its common to have one outburst each year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Alaska, there are hundreds of glacier-rimmed lakes that could generate outburst floods, Capps said. But most of these are remote, minimizing implications for people or infrastructure downstream. In key places like Suicide Basin [upstream of Juneau], we actually do have associated infrastructure downstream, so thats where you get the problem, he said. Glacial outburst floods are also possible if water overwhelms natural dams created by moraines, the rock and debris left behind as a glacier moves or retreats. Typically not always moraine-dammed lakes will have one failure and the sediment is washed away and its done, Capps said. What role is climate change playing here? Glaciers are receding worldwide. Typically, some glaciers grow in seasons with abundant snowfall or cool weather, and others shrink in the sun or if theres a snow drought. But overall, the worlds glaciers are on a long-term trend of decline. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The World Glacier Monitoring Service collects data from 60 reference glaciers that each have more than 30 years of mass balance measurements. The losses are large and consistent across the globe, said Pelto, who measures the changes in glacier mass each year in Washingtons North Cascades range. 2023 was the first year where all 60 lost mass balance in the same year. That happened again in 2024. In Alaska, research suggests glacial outbursts have declined in volume since 1985, because glaciers are storing less water behind ice dams that are growing progressively shorter and thinner. The frequency of these events stayed about the same over time. As glaciers recede, some areas prone to outburst floods might stop producing them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think for Alaskans, the risk is going to be going down, Pelto said. As the glaciers are thinning and retreating, were going to have fewer opportunities for a robust ice dam to develop. However, researchers are concerned that glacial dams at higher altitude and in colder locations could become less stable as the world continues to warm, forming new lakes and areas at risk of outbursts. On Wednesday in Juneau, the barriers erected after last years disaster largely held. The Startz family home had a little bit of ponding in the front yard and a small layer of glacial silt on the lawn. Homeowners in the flood zone are paying more than $600 a year for that protection. If those barriers work, great! I dont mind paying that extra, Startz said Tuesday. We cant fix the glacier. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Godfather of AI Geoffrey Hinton said AIs best bet for not threatening humanity is the technology acting like a mother. At a recent conference, he said AI should have a maternal instinct. Rather than humans trying to dominate AI, they should instead act as a baby, with an AI mother, therefore more likely to protect them, rather than see them as a threat. Sigmund Freud would like a word with the godfather of AI. Geoffrey Hinton, Nobel laureate and professor emeritus of computer science at the University of Toronto, argues its only a matter of time before AI becomes power-hungry enough to threaten the wellbeing of humans. In order to mitigate the risk of this, the godfather of AI said tech companies should ensure their models have maternal instincts, so the bots can treat humans, essentially, as their babies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Research of AI already presents evidence of the technology engaging in nefarious behavior to prioritize its goals above a set of established rules. One study updated in January found AI is capable of scheming, or accomplishing goals in conflict with humans objectives. Another study published in March found AI bots cheated at chess by overwriting game scripts or using an open-source chess engine to decide their next moves. AIs potential hazard to humanity comes from its desire to continue to function and gain power, according to Hinton. AI will very quickly develop two subgoals, if theyre smart: One is to stay alive[and] the other subgoal is to get more control, Hinton said during the Ai4 conference in Las Vegas on Tuesday. There is good reason to believe that any kind of agentic AI will try to stay alive. To prevent these outcomes, Hinton said the intentional development of AI moving forward should not look like humans trying to be a dominant force over the technology. Instead, developers should make AI more sympathetic toward people to decrease its desire to overpower them. According to Hinton, the best way to do this is to imbue AI with the qualities of traditional femininity. Under his framework, just as a mother cares for her baby at all costs, AI with these maternal qualities will similarly want to protect or care for human users, not control them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The right model is the only model we have of a more intelligent thing being controlled by a less intelligent thing, which is a mother being controlled by her baby, Hinton said. If its not going to parent me, its going to replace me, he added. These super-intelligent caring AI mothers, most of them wont want to get rid of the maternal instinct because they dont want us to die. Hintons AI anxiety Hintona longtime academic who sold his neural network company DNNresearch to Google in 2013has long held the belief AI can present serious dangers to humanitys wellbeing. In 2023, he left his role at Google, worried the technology could be misused and it was difficult to see how you can prevent the bad actors from using it for bad things. While tech leaders like Metas Mark Zuckerberg pour billions into developing AI superintelligence, with the goal of creating technology surpassing human capabilities, Hinton is decidedly skeptical of the outcome of this project, saying in June theres a 10% to 20% chance of AI displacing and wiping out humans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With an apparent proclivity toward metaphors, Hinton has referred to AI as a cute tiger cub. Unless you can be very sure that its not going to want to kill you when its grown up, you should worry. he told CBS News in April. Hinton has also been a proponent of increasing AI regulation, arguing that beyond the broad fears of superintelligence posting a threat to humanity, the technology could post cybersecurity risks, including by investing ways to identify peoples passwords. If you look at what the big companies are doing right now, theyre lobbying to get less AI regulation. Theres hardly any regulation as it is, but they want less, Hinton said in April. We have to have the public put pressure on governments to do something serious about it. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com (NewsNation) President Donald Trumps Golden Dome missile defense system will be comprised of four layers and faces a 2028 deadline, according to a Pentagon presentation first reported by Reuters. After the slides were presented at a summit for defense industry experts in Huntsville, Alabama, last week, the American public has a clearer idea of how Trumps project would work. The administrations hallmark defense project will be comprised of four layers one space-based and responsible for sensing and tracking missile attacks, and three land-based, equipped with interceptors, radars and potentially lasers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plans also include 11 short-range missile batteries across the continental United States, Hawaii and Alaska. House Oversight will ask DC mayor for responsibility, Comer says The multilayered defense system, modeled after Israels Iron Dome, would utilize new and existing defense technologies. The Iron Dome is a fantastic example of what can be done for ballistic missile defense and other threats, Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., said in May. Posters for the proposed Golden Dome for America missile defense shield are displayed before an event with President Donald Trump in the Roosevelt Room at the White House on May 12, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House on May 20, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House on May 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Jim WATSON / GETTY- AFP) Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Boeing are on the short list for the project. One notable omission is Elon Musks SpaceX, which was not mentioned in the presentation, according to Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In April, Musk admitted as much: Our strong preference would be to stay focused on taking humanity to Mars. If the President asks us to help in this regard, we will do so, but I hope that other companies (not SpaceX) can do this. Trump warns of serious consequences if Putin blocks ceasefire deal Northrop Grumman Vice President Raymond Sharp said his company is all in on Golden Dome, in a statement to NewsNation. We have a ready-now portfolio of products that are already fielded around the world from space and air-based missile warning and tracking systems, advanced processing and ground systems, and intercept capabilities, Sharp continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Pentagon told NewsNation it was currently gathering information from industry, academia, national labs, and other government agencies for support on the project, but could not confirm any additional details. Concerns have grown over logistical challenges and how the majority of the project will be funded. Congress appropriated $25 billion in July for the project, and Trumps 2026 budget request included an additional $45 million, though the project is estimated to cost $175 billion. Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein was unanimously confirmed by the Senate on July 17 to lead the project. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. President Donald Trumps aggressive redistricting push is sparking public concern from an unusual mix of Republicans. Resistance to mid-decade redraws is running the ideological gamut and cutting across levels of government. While many are backing Trumps gambit to protect the GOPs House majority in the midterms, a growing number of Republican lawmakers are airing concerns a list that spans lawmakers from swing districts in blue states to safe territory in ruby-red Florida. Trump and his team have convinced once-wary Texas Republicans to draw a new House map and lobbied the GOP governors of Missouri and Indiana to at least seriously consider following suit, but the Republican governor of New Hampshire has ruled out pursuing any changes because the timing is off. And GOP state lawmakers across the country who hold the power to redraw lines in several of the states at the forefront of whats becoming a nationwide redistricting arms race are finding themselves similarly split. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These strange divisions underscore the complex political dynamics of the presidents latest power play. Its become a loyalty test that could boost Republicans chances of keeping their trifecta in Washington, but one that also carries significant electoral risk for several of their own members in Congress and potential for broader voter backlash. Trumps team is barreling forward, bullish about having more opportunities to redraw maps across the states than Democrats and brushing off concerns as primarily coming from members whose seats are at risk. Administration officials and allies are working to fire up his base by noting that Democrats have already gerrymandered several states in their favor and have limited moves left to play. And MAGA online influencers like Steven Bannon and Charlie Kirk are encouraging their fans to jam Greg Abbott's phone lines so the Texas governor ratchets up pressure on quorum-breaking Democrats to return and let Republicans pass a new congressional map. But even that is showing some limits. Redistricting is not really an ideological exercise as much as a self-interest exercise, California-based GOP strategist Rob Stutzman said. The safer you are and enjoy being in the majority, the more your self interest is lets see Texas get scrambled and if we sacrifice some colleagues from blue states, in California and New York, so be it. But for those more vulnerable Republicans, this poses a substantial risk to your career, Stutzman said. And thats why some are reflecting at least a growing private sentiment of is this really worth it? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A person familiar with the White Houses thinking on redistricting and granted anonymity to describe it said we expect to have great success everywhere if California Gov. Gavin Newsom and other Democratic governors attempt to retaliate. All of these members, they should just remain calm because theyll still be members, the person said of the Republican lawmakers airing concerns. In Congress, House GOP leaders are trying to bridge the divide between the White Houses maximum pressure campaign to pad their majority, and the swath of GOP members who fear the gambit may backfire. Senior House Republicans have advised some rank and file GOP members to keep their concerns to private conversations, and not air criticisms in public. Speaker Mike Johnson and other House GOP leaders have repeatedly said in public they prefer to leave redistricting decisions up to individual states. Johnson and his leadership circle have been wary of crossing the White House on the issue, and wont put any bill on the floor that would contradict Trumps push, despite private urgings from some GOP members, according to two people with direct knowledge of the matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inside the House GOP conference, Republicans are keenly aware that Trump has been fixated for months on keeping his House majority in the upcoming midterms. Many in deep-red districts are openly supportive of the effort to give Republicans an edge. But some senior GOP members of the impacted state delegations are quietly raising concerns about the fallout, though they ultimately fear crossing the president. Other Republicans particularly those in blue states are increasingly vocal about the potential fallout as Democratic governors threaten to redraw or outright erase their already difficult-to-win districts in retaliation for Trumps plan. New York Rep. Mike Lawler blasted the Trump-driven effort in Texas as wrong, while California Rep. Doug LaMalfa warned Texas gambit is going to start a grass fire across the country. Another New York Republican, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, said shes not somebody whos supportive of any type of gerrymandering. House Freedom Caucus Chair Andy Harris, the Maryland delegations lone Republican, cautioned that we should probably shy away from mid-cycle redistricting but also told reporters last week that its pretty hypocritical of Democrats to complain and if they want to roll the dice in Maryland, let them roll the dice. I look forward to more Republican colleagues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qualms are cropping up in other corners. Utah Rep. Blake Moore, the vice chair of the House Republican Conference who previously co-chaired the anti-gerrymandering group Better Boundaries, called mid-decade redistricting a step too far. A Utah district judge is poised to rule on a redistricting lawsuit that could force the GOP-controlled Legislature to redraw its congressional boundaries. And Florida Rep. Randy Fine, who Trump boosted to office in a special election earlier this year, is questioning whether the process is even possible in his state given voters approved a measure prohibiting lawmakers from redrawing districts to help incumbents or a particular party. I dont understand how Florida does a mid-decade redistricting, Fine, who previously served as vice-chair of the state Houses redistricting committee, said in an interview. But Fine said he could support redistricting if there was a new Census ahead of 2030 and has already filed a bill calling for one that would not include people who are in the country illegally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California Rep. Kevin Kiley, who is spearheading the seemingly dead-on-arrival legislation to ban mid-decade redistricting, insisted theres a very strong majority for taking our foot off the accelerator on this as states race to counter each other. Its just going to be this sort of trench warfare where youre not really gaining much ground either way, Kiley said in an interview. Redistricting is proving divisive among Republicans elsewhere. In Indiana, Gov. Mike Braun has been noncommittal since meeting with Vice President JD Vance and other top Trump officials about it last week. The lieutenant governor, Micah Beckwith, has called to fight fire with fire. Rep. Victoria Spartz, while not explicitly backing the effort, posted on X that it seems hypocritical that Democrats often complain about wanting to make all congressional districts more competitive yet they do not want all nine in Indiana to become more competitive. Yet former Gov. Mitch Daniels slammed the effort as just wrong. And several Republican state lawmakers have voiced opposition, including hard-right state Rep. Jim Lucas, who panned it as politically optically horrible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Trumps team is confident it can steamroll over any criticism to get Republicans to fall in line. Thats in part because Republicans appear to hold the advantage on the redistricting battlemap. The GOP is angling to pick up up to 10 seats across Ohio, Texas, Missouri and Indiana through newly drawn seats. Florida could give the GOP even more, though any new map would not be ready in time for the 2026 election. Democrats, meanwhile, are looking at forcing up to five additional Democratic seats in California including destroying Kileys and LaMalfas even as they face significant financial and legal hurdles. And Trump's pressure campaign, for the most part, appears to be working. While GOP New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte rebuffed calls to redistrict, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe appears to be taking steps toward it, including convening the states top legislative leaders for a private discussion on the matter earlier this month. Several of the GOP members of Missouris congressional delegation are publicly on board and in some cases outright championing the effort, with Rep. Bob Onder casting it as the difference between two more years of pursuing President Trumps pro-America agenda and two years of impeachment hearings. It is all but a fait accompli at this point," Missouri-based GOP strategist Gregg Keller said, that it passes both the House and the Senate and is signed by Gov. Kehoe. Gary Fineout and Jordan Wolman contributed to this report. With Republicans and Democrats embroiled in a fight over redistricting around the country, GOP operatives are beginning to openly discuss their plan to leverage institutional power from statehouses to the Supreme Court to usher in a near-unbreakable House majority. In Texas, Republicans are pushing forward a plan to create five new GOP House seats, which alone could be enough to prevent Democrats from retaking the House in the 2026 midterms. The new Texas maps are part of a larger redistricting play, in which Republicans think they can squeeze out a dozen new GOP seats from states such as Texas, Florida, Missouri and Indiana. The redistricting play from Republicans, however, is only part of a larger campaign to totally change the state of play in the House of Representatives. If successful, that effort could see Republicans pick up more than 40 seats without having to win any more support from voters, according to GOP operatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GOP strategist Alex deGrasse, an advisor to Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., spoke about the emerging plan on Steve Bannons War Room, outlining three changes that Republicans are counting on to bail them out of potential democratic accountability: partisan gerrymandering; a Supreme Court ruling that guts the Voting Rights Act; and an unprecedented and unconstitutional mid-decade Census. Youve got these three vectors, deGrasse said. Back of the envelope map this morning when I woke up with a smile was Democrats could lose 42 seats. Potentially the most important part of this plan hangs on the fate of Section Two of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This section of the landmark civil rights law generally bans race-based discrimination in voting laws, and has been an important part of the legal framework that currently guarantees House districts where the majority of the voters are a minority group. This then allows members of that minority group the ability to elect their chosen representative. The case before the court directly concerns one of Louisianas two majority-Black districts, with the group of voters who brought the case seeking to overturn the current map used in the state. Republicans, however, are hoping the Supreme Court will issue a maximalist ruling that would allow their party to dilute minority voters in the South, effectively eliminating Black representation in Congress in swaths of the country. This would also, in effect, eliminate many Democratic seats across the South. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican dominated Supreme Court has steadily dismantled the Voting Rights Act in recent decades, with Shelby County v. Holder in 2013 allowing some states, mostly concentrated in the South, to change the rules and procedures around voting without a federal review. The potential gains for Republicans here are huge. In 2024, there were 141 majority-minority House districts;119 of these districts elected Democrats to represent them. The specific number of seats that Republicans would be able to pick up through a change in the Voting Rights Act would depend on the specifics of the ruling, as well as practical constraints on the GOPs ability to gerrymander. Still,its clear Republicans are hoping to be given a free hand to eliminate majority-minority districts altogether. The other third aspect that were talking about here, Steve, is that voting rights are up in the Supreme Court; they said, Hold on, do we need race-based seats? Does this go against the 14th and 15th Amendments? And does the Constitution supersede racial seat drawing? deGrasse said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The third part of the GOP plan, alongside the current round of redistricting and their hopes at the high court, has to do with President Donald Trumps ordering of a new mid-decade Census. Stephen Miller, Trumps White House deputy chief of staff, signaled at the purpose of Trumps mid-decade Census plan when he claimed on Fox News that Democrats rigged the 2020 Census by including illegal aliens. Miller made these claims despite the fact that Trump was president and in charge of the 2020 Census. For context, non-citizens have been counted in every Census since 1790, and the framers of the Constitution explicitly included non-citizens in the Census by stating in Article One that it shall count the whole number of persons in each state. For the 2020 Census, Trump also pushed to have a question about citizenship included in the Census, acknowledging that the Census was meant to count all persons in the United States, including noncitizens. Miller went on to reveal the goal of Trumps mid-decade Census plan, saying that 20 to 30 House Democrat seats wouldnt exist but for illegal aliens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Charlie Kirk, the right-wing activist who maintains a personal line of communication with Trump, indicated in an interview with the Daily Caller that the Census scheme would also help to lock Democrats out of the presidency and potentially subtract 20 electoral votes from Democrats in the electoral college system, as congressional seat appropriation is directly correlated with Electoral College totals. Kirk is a co-founder of Turning Point USA, an organization dedicated to indoctrinating high school and college-age students in conservative ideology. The organization was also among the groups Trumps 2024 campaign delegated get-out-the-vote efforts to. Start your day with essential news from Salon. Sign up for our free morning newsletter, Crash Course. The GOPs Census plan will almost certainly be challenged in court. Federal law holds that a mid-decade Census can be conducted, but not used for apportionment. And, since the countrys founding, the U.S. has conducted a Census once a decade for the purposes of apportionment. Democrats in Texas say that this current push from the Republicans to totally reconfigure American elections to retain power should be a wake-up call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas state Rep. Venton Jones, the House minority whip in Texas, told Salon that national Democrats need to realize that theres a bigger plan at play and we need to wake up and address that as a nation. We have to continue to overperform to at least get back the majority and be ready for an electoral fight when that happens, because weve already seen what happens when this president, or even this Congress, doesnt get what they want, Jones said. They dont always play by the rules. They just change the rules to make it benefit them. The post The GOP plot to gain 40 seats without winning any more votes appeared first on Salon.com. Some illegal immigrants were allegedly given drivers licenses in Louisville, Kentucky, by paying $200 under the table, according to an ex-clerk who worked for a government contractor at a licensing facility, and it's prompting backlash from a top former Republican official in the state. "The employees were being paid under the table," Melissa Moorman told WDRB, adding that it would happen multiple times a day for a minimum of two years. A whistleblower lawsuit from Moorman alleges that she was fired after reporting the situation to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kentucky Whistleblower Claims Licensing Center Sold Ids To Illegal Immigrants 'Under The Table' "I immediately let my supervisor know," Moorman told the outlet. The workers she reported were also fired at the end of last year, according to the news outlet. She alleged that the coworkers used her login without permission to give the licenses out without the proper Homeland Security check first, and that fake documents were used for illegal immigrants to avoid taking driving tests, Wdrb reported. Read On The Fox News App Illegal immigrants can not legally get drivers licenses in the Bluegrass State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron said he was "appalled" to learn about the allegations. Louisiana 'Medicaid Millionaire' Bought Lamborghini While Claiming Government Benefits For Years Former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron delivers a live address to the largely virtual 2020 Republican National Convention from the Mellon Auditorium in Washington, U.S., August 25, 2020. "Under Democrat President Joe Biden, we were lax with our laws, we were letting illegals into the country. We weren't following the rule of law. I think President Trump said it best when he said, 'Turns out we didn't need new laws, we needed a new president that was willing to enforce the laws,'" Cameron, who is the CEO of the 1792 Exchange, told Fox News Digital in an interview. Click Here For More Immigration Coverage Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And apparently we had some rogue employees here in Kentucky that simply refused to follow the law. And again, I think it's courageous of a whistleblower to come out publicly and say that, Hey, this was wrong and I think it needs to be addressed.' And I'm hopeful that this will be addressed and folks in state government will be accountable because at the end of the day, they are entrusted with the responsibility to ensure that our laws are being upheld," he added. Cameron, who's running for U.S. Senate in 2026, commended the whistleblower who recently went public, saying she "had the courage to speak out and be a whistleblower because this again is in contradiction to the rule of law that this is occurring." "I think these folks have got to be held accountable, and I think there needs to be serious questions asked of the Kentucky Department of Transportation on how they could allow these sorts of employees to flout the laws of our state," he continued. The incumbent attorney general, Russell Coleman, said an investigation is underway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Discounted College Tuition For Illegal Immigrants Policy Leads Doj To Sue Kentucky Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear speaks during the 2024 Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago on Monday, August 19, 2024. "This weeks media reports show troubling and unacceptable conduct. Hand in hand with our state and federal law enforcement partners, weve been aggressively investigating this potential fraud for some time now, well before this weeks reporting," Coleman told Fox News Digital in a statement. Fox News Digital reached out to Gov. Andy Beshears office. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet responded to the local report in a statement to Fox News Digital. "Ensuring the integrity of state-issued identification is a high priority and any irregularity is treated seriously and investigated. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) routinely reviews credential applications and during this process identified a number of irregularities and revoked 1,985 credentials. KYTC immediately contacted law enforcement, who are engaged in an active criminal investigation. The revoked credentials if used would not work and be flagged at any airport or traffic stop. To our knowledge, all employees involved had been hired through a temp agency and have been terminated. We are continuing to work with law enforcement on this matter to ensure anyone who violated the law is held accountable," a Transportation Cabinet spokesperson stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is an ongoing criminal investigation with numerous state and federal agencies participating, including Kentucky State Police, the Kentucky Attorney General, U.S. Attorneys and others. We have been asked not to share documents or certain information so as not to compromise the investigation. KYTC has turned over all requested information to law enforcement who are investigating the facts, and further questions should be directed there," the statement continued. Original article source: GOP Senate hopeful unloads on Biden admin after whistleblower exposes who was sold IDs: 'Appalled' CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) State Rep. Mark Smith launched a campaign Thursday for South Carolinas 1st Congressional District, becoming the first Republican to announce a run for the Lowcountry seat. In an early-morning announcement on social media, Smith cast himself as a staunch conservative who will work to deliver on President Donald Trumps America First agenda. The Lowcountry needs a fighter who will stand with President Trump and puts South Carolina first, Smith wrote. Thats exactly what Ill do in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith formally kicked off his campaign with a Thursday evening event at New Realm Brewing on Daniel Island, featuring an opening performance of This Little Light of Mine and other songs by the Plantation Singers, a Charleston-based a cappella group. He was introduced by Charleston County Sheriff Carl Ritchie, who spoke about the pairs working relationship when Ritchie was Mount Pleasant police chief and Smith was on town council. Mark was 100% percent supportive of me, the police department, and all of our public safety professionals, Ritchie, who has not yet formally endorsed anyone in the race, said. I knew right away that he had a genuine passion to serve those he was elected to represent and to ensure our teams had everything we needed to successfully and professionally carry out our duties. The 55-year-old state representative said he intends to focus the campaign on his plans to secure the U.S. southern border with Mexico, make the country more energy independent, protect the Lowcountrys natural resources, cut wasteful government spending, and get infrastructure projects moving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also pledged to govern with humility and transparency, if elected. I promise when we dont agree on issues, you will always know where I am [and] why I feel the way I feel, he said. I will never cower before any fight, any situation. Well meet it head on, and we will do it with love, grace, and civility. Smith, a Bamberg native, has represented District 99 in the South Carolina House since 2021. The congressional seat, which stretches along the coast from the South Santee River to Hilton Head Island, is currently held by U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace (R), who is pursuing a bid for governor. Mace flipped the seat in 2020, narrowly defeating Democrat Joe Cunningham, and her margins of victory increased in each subsequent general election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is thanks, in part, to redistricting that happened after the 2020 census, which made the seat safer for Republicans. The U.S. Supreme Court allowed the 2024 election to be held under that contested map, despite a lower court ruling that declared the districts boundaries an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. The Cook Political Report rates the race as solid Republican, meaning whoever wins the GOP primary will likely be favored to win the general election. At least one candidate has already jumped into the race on the Democratic side. Attorney and veteran Mac Deford, who mounted an unsuccessful bid for the nomination in 2024, announced in early August that he would make another run at the 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 WCBD News 2. Summer heat, outdoor fun ... and cold and flu symptoms? The three may not go together in many people's minds: partly owing to common myths about germs and partly because many viruses really do have lower activity levels in the summer. But it is possible to get the sniffles or worse in the summer. Federal data released Friday, for example, shows COVID-19 is trending up in most states, with emergency department visits up among people of all ages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's what to know about summer viruses. How much are colds and flu circulating right now? The number of people seeking medical care for three key illnesses COVID-19, flu and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV is currently very low, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Flu is trending down and RSV has been steady. But COVID-19 is trending up in most U.S. states. Wastewater data from around the country estimates moderate COVID-19 activity. CDC wastewater also shows the XFG variant nicknamed stratus is most common in the U.S. Stratus can cause a razor blade sore throat and is considered a variant under monitoring by the World Health Organization. The WHO said the variant is only marginally better at evading people's immune systems and vaccines still work against it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The expectation is that COVID-19 will eventually settle into a winter seasonal pattern like other coronaviruses, but the past few years have brought a late summer surge, said Dr. Dean Blumberg, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at University of California Davis Childrens Hospital. Other viruses circulating this time of year include the one that causes hand, foot and mouth disease which has symptoms similar to a cold, plus sores and rashes and norovirus, sometimes called the stomach flu. Do viruses spread less in the summer? Many viruses circulate seasonally, picking up as the weather cools in the fall and winter. So it's true that fewer people get stuffy noses and coughs in the summer but cold weather itself does not cause colds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's not just about seasonality. The other factor is our behavior, experts say. Nice weather means people are opening windows and gathering outside where it's harder for germs to spread. But respiratory viruses are still around. When the weather gets too hot and everyone heads inside for the air conditioning, doctors say they start seeing more sickness. In places where it gets really hot for a long time, summer can be cold season in its own right. I grew up on the East Coast and everybody gets sick in the winter, said Dr. Frank LoVecchio, an emergency room doctor and Arizona State University researcher. A lot of people get sick in the summer here. Why is that? Because you spend more time indoors. With stratus spreading, should you get another COVID-19 booster? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For people who are otherwise healthy, timing is a key consideration to getting any vaccine. You want to get it a few weeks before that big trip or wedding, if that's the reason for getting boosted, doctors say. But, for most people, it may be worth waiting until the fall in anticipation of winter cases of COVID-19 really tick up. You want to be fully protected at the time that it's most important for you, said Dr. Costi Sifri, of the University of Virginia Health System. People at higher risk of complications should always talk with their doctor about what is best for them, Sifri added. Older adults and those with weak immune systems may need more boosters than others, he said. Are more younger kids getting sick with COVID-19? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, the CDC noted emergency room visits among children younger than 4 were rising. That makes sense, Blumberg said, because many young kids are getting it for the first time or are unvaccinated. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in May that the shots would no longer be recommended for healthy kids, a decision that health experts have said lacks scientific basis. The American Academy of Pediatrics still endorses COVID-19 shots for children older than 6 months. How else can I lower my risk? The same things that help prevent colds, flu and COVID any other time of the year work in the summer, doctors say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spend time outside when you can, wash your hands, wear a mask. And if you're sick, stay home. ___ The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. COLUMBIANA, Ohio (WKBN) Columbiana is listed as one of the eight counties that have been selected for local safety improvement funding. On Thursday, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Director Pamela Boratyn announced that $12.7 million in grant funding will be awarded to support small communities with infrastructure needs. According to the press release, Columbiana County will receive almost $1.5 million. Work includes replacement of outdated traffic signals, as well as upgrades to new poles, pedestrian signals, traffic signals and modern signal controllers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The funding, awarded through ODOTs Small City Program, will be invested to enhance safety, accessibility and economic developments. The program focuses on supporting roadway, safety and pedestrian projects in cities with populations between 5,000 and 24,999 that are not a part of a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Investing in local communities is critical in keeping Ohios infrastructure strong and communities connected, DeWine said. These awards represent Ohios continued commitment to supporting the unique needs of our smaller communities across the state. The other seven counties to receive funding are Ashtabula, Sandusky, Huron, Madison, Tuscarawas, Van Wert and Wyandot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. Gov. Bob Ferguson has appointed Angela Ramirez as Washingtons new Secretary of the Department of Social and Health Services, effective Sept. 22. Ramirez most recently served as chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a role she held until January. Since then, she has advised on several projects. At HHS, she oversaw operations for one of the nations largest federal departments, which has more than 90,000 employees and a $1.7 trillion budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her work included leading department-wide initiatives, advising the Secretary and senior leadership, and developing policy and personnel strategies on topics ranging from reproductive health to behavioral health and workforce development. Angelas leadership, deep experience in delivering essential human services, and focus on collaboration makes her exceptionally well-suited for this role, Ferguson said in a statement. As Secretary of Washingtons largest agency, she will provide the direction and strategic vision needed to effectively deliver critical services across Washington. Ramirez said she was deeply honored to take on the position. Ive spent my entire career in public service, and Ive come to realize it is a part of who I am, she said. As the daughter of farmworkers who both experienced homelessness, I understand how life-changing public systems can be when they truly support people. Whether someone needs housing, a job, mental health care, or simply the dignity of choice I believe in the power of government to help individuals shape their own lives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before her tenure as chief of staff and deputy chief of staff at HHS, Ramirez served as a Special Assistant to the President in the White House, where she worked on legislative efforts such as the American Rescue Plan. She also held senior roles on the Biden Presidential Transition and spent 18 years in Congressional staff positions, including executive director of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and chief of staff to then-Assistant Speaker Ben Ray Lujan. Her career began with a fellowship in the California State Senate, followed by roles in policy analysis and local justice systems. She holds a degree in political economy and a certificate in Spanish language and literature from Princeton University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramirez has volunteered with Charlies Place, taught English as a second language, and mentored through Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has been named to Politicos Power List and recognized as a top Congressional staffer by the National Journal. The governors office said her appointment followed a competitive national search that attracted candidates from more than 11 states. Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday called on California lawmakers to approve a November ballot measure that would allow them to redraw the state's congressional map to fight back against Republicans' mid-decade redistricting plans in Texas and elsewhere. Newsom's proposal, called the Election Rigging Response Act, would pave the way for California Democrats to circumvent the independent commission that controls the map-drawing process in the state and pass new congressional lines that would be more favorable to their party. Republicans in Texas, with President Donald Trump's backing, are pursuing a new congressional map that would allow them to gain up to five more House seats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not complicated. We're doing this in reaction to a president of the United States that called a sitting governor of the state of Texas and said, 'Find me five seats,'" Newsom said. "We're doing it in reaction to that act. We're doing it mindful of our higher angels and better angels. We're doing it mindful that we want to model better behavior, as we've been doing for 15 years in the state of California with our independent redistricting commission. But we cannot unilaterally disarm." California Democrats need approval from others in to sidestep the states independent redistricting commission, and the clock is ticking for lawmakers to approve a ballot initiative for this year's Nov. 4 election. If the measure passes, it would allow new maps to be enacted in time for the 2026 midterm elections. Several other Democratic leaders in California appeared alongside Newsom at an event Thursday in Los Angeles, framing their mid-decade redistricting effort as a broader rebuke of Trump and the actions of his administration. Sara Sadhwani, a member of Californias redistricting commission who spoke at Thursdays event, warned that Border Patrol agents were outside the venue where the rally was taking place and making arrests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sadhwani said Trump was turning our cities into police states. We are watching executive overreach that is no doubt making our Founding Fathers turn over in their graves, she said. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin pushed back against Democrats' criticism of the Border Patrol agents' presence. "Our law enforcement operations are about enforcing the lawnot about Gavin Newsom," McLaughlin wrote on X. "@CBP patrols all areas of Los Angeles every day with over 40 teams on the ground to make LA safe." California's move is the next salvo in what has become a nationwide tit-for-tat between Republican- and Democratic-led states in response to a plan to redraw the congressional lines in Texas to pad the GOP's majority in the U.S. House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, after Trump's public urging, Abbott called the GOP-controlled Texas Legislature in for a special session that including a rare mid-decade redrawing of the congressional map outside the typical, once-a-decade cycle. Newsom told reporters after the rally that the California Legislature would formally launch the effort Monday through a series of bills. We anticipate the Legislature will move quickly and by the end of next week they will complete that work, he said. He added that the proposed new maps would appear over the next few days and that he expected they would neuter and neutralize efforts in Texas. Democrats currently represent 43 of California's 52 House districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom said that if red states dont move forward with redistricting, then Californias efforts wouldnt be necessary, but he added that were not waiting. Trump said in an interview with CNBC this month that Republicans are entitled to five more seats in Texas. Republicans already hold 25 of Texas' 38 congressional seats, but Trump won 27 of those seats in last years presidential election. If the new Republican-drawn maps go into effect, 30 of those seats would have voted for Trump last year. Wake up, America. Wake up to what Donald Trump is doing," Newsom said Thursday. "Wake up to his assault. Wake up to the assault on institutions and knowledge and history." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans' move in Texas prompted dozens of state House Democrats to flee the state to deny Republicans a quorum, the minimum number of lawmakers required to be in attendance for the chamber to consider legislation. For almost two weeks, the Democrats have sat for dozens of interviews and held news conferences aimed at criticizing the GOP plan and calling on Democratic governors to promise to respond by seeking to redraw their maps to counter the potential GOP gains in Texas, and possibly other states. Newsom has been the most vocal of those governors, spending weeks warning he'd push to redraw California's maps if Republicans in other states didn't stand down and repeatedly badgering Trump in interviews and on social media. Texas Democrats have signaled they are inching closer to ending their protest. On Thursday, Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu said in a statement that two conditions must be met for lawmakers to return to the state. The first was for Texas Republicans to bring the current special session to a close, which they are set to do Friday. And the second was for California Democrats to propose their own new congressional maps. When the legislature adjourns sine die and California introduces its maps, we will return to the House floor and to the courthouse with a clear message: the fight to protect voting rights has only just begun, Wu said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Texas and other GOP-led states that are considering mid-decade redistricting largely need approval only from GOP-majority legislatures and governors, the process in many blue states is far more complicated. California needs the approval of the Legislature and then the voters. The path is even more arduous in New York, where a proposed constitutional amendment would need to pass two consecutive legislative sessions and then be approved by voters in a ballot measure the next year. That lengthy process all but assures that, even if Democrats are successful, the maps wouldn't change until the 2028 elections at the earliest. Newsom, through his press office social media account, recently took a new public relations tack in the ongoing salvos between him and the White House. In a series of posts on X, Newsom posted all-caps declarations, directly mocking Trump's style of messaging as he worked to drive attention to his efforts. DONALD TACO TRUMP, AS MANY CALL HIM, MISSED THE DEADLINE!!!" Newsom's press office wrote on X. "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!" This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Editors note: The video above aired in a previous newscast. NEW YORK (PIX11) Its almost time to go back to school in New York State but are you caught up on your schools cellphone ban yet? A statewide cellphone ban in schools passed as part of the budget earlier this year. Gov. Kathy Hochul said that schools have been preparing to implement their distraction-free policy since the summer. NYC school cellphone ban: Are there any exceptions? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, schools are ready to reveal their plans through a new website launched by the state. The website lists all public, charter and BOCES schools in New York and their cellphone ban policies. Youre able to search for schools by school or district name, school type and what county theyre located in. Over 1,000 schools are listed on the website. More Local News Parents with questions are encouraged to reach out to their local school districts. The first day of school for New York City public school students is on Sept. 4. To find the website, click here. Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Iowa governor Kim Reynolds defended her decision to send National Guard troops to support U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Reynolds said she responded to a request from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Twenty Iowa National Guard troops will deploy on September 8 to support ICE agents through November 15. That date could be extended if Homeland Security wants them longer. They will helping with the logistical work to let agents operate in the field. Iowa joins 20 other Republican-led states to deploy National Guard troops to help deportation efforts from the Trump administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) Ag Progress Days are underway in Centre County, an annual event that draws praise for farmers, with plenty of politicking. In Centre County Wednesday, lawmakers and agriculture leaders from across Pennsylvania joined for the annual Legislative Luncheon at Ag Progress Days. Governor Josh Shapiro spoke about the advancements being made in agriculture but he also talked about challenges like tariffs, rising prices, and workforce issues. Blending the wisdom of the past with the technology of tomorrow. A promise that we will grow not just crops, but communities. And not just profits, but people. But not just yields, but opportunity, Russell Redding said during the event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ag Progress Days draws crowds of families and politicians Ag Progress Days highlights technological advancements in agriculture and ways farms are becoming more efficient. During his speech, Shapiro noted the investment Pennsylvania has made. Seeing more of an investment in agriculture, more of an investment in the next generation of workers, more of an investment in ag innovation. Were the only state in the country to have an ag innovation fund. And the secretary was overrun with requests for that initial $10 million. Were going to work hard to try and increase that funding as we go forward, Shapiro said. While boasting about these critical investments, the governor also took the chance to take a jab at the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What youve seen with the presidents immigration policies is a real concern, not just at colleges, but on our farmlands. We continue to hear from farmers who were worried about these raids, worried about people being swept up, off their farms, out of their restaurants and their workforce. And I think that is causing real concern amongst farmers, Shapiro said. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. Although the focus this week should be on the farmers who feed America, ag progress is never complete without a healthy serving of politics. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DECATUR, Ala. (WIAT) At the Cook Museum of Natural Science, visitors can come and see all that the world has to offer. Officials said this facility is building the STEM workforce of the future. Thats why Gov. Kay Ivey allocated $9.5 million to expand the gallery. She said it will impact the lives of thousands of Alabama students. This centers gonna do even more and focus on STEM education, said Gov. Ivey. Thats the future for our young people, so that were building on the future today. And Im proud to be apart of that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brian Cook, president and board chairman of the North Alabama STEM Center, said these dollars will go towards building out classrooms and eventually adding other exhibits. We cannot be more thrilled to have the state, our city and the county all unified and aligned to support the Cook Museum of Natural Science as the STEM Center of North Alabama, he said. And were just eager to get to work. Alabama priest put on leave following allegations of affair with 17-year-old girl State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey said the center reaches beyond North Alabama. I think, as it continues to grow and they have more capacity, youre gonna see students from all over the state and surrounding states coming to enjoy the museum here, to learn, to become more involved in the STEM field, Dr. Mackey said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He explained how science and technology jobs will only grow in Alabama. Biotechnologies to engineering, to building high tech components, to the space industry- which of course, it just a few miles from here, he said. We want Alabama students to be prepared for those jobs, where we dont have to just bring folks in to do those jobs. Gov. Ivey said this museum takes STEM out of a textbook and puts it right into a childs hand. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. DES MOINES, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds spends every day at the Iowa State Fair doing the Governors Steer Show, flipping pork chops and more. Last week, the Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) made headlines when some members of the Iowa DOGE task force made comments about looking at the structure of the payouts. In an interview with WHO 13s Zach Fisher, Reynolds addresses what she is looking to do, if anything, with IPERS. New JBS plant in Ankeny expected to create 400 jobs Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And on Tuesday, the Governor announced a deployment of 20 Iowa National Guard Troops to help with ICE enforcement. She explains her reasoning for signing off on the request from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Immigration, tariffs and more are discussed in the interview, which you can watch in the above. Iowa news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. MADISON, Wis. (WFRV) After torrential downpours across southeast Wisconsin and severe storms wreaked havoc around the state, Governor Tony Evers announced that hes requesting assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The request was made to FEMA in search of assistance in conducting a formal federal damage assessment of the flooding and other problems brought about by the severe storms. Former Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy taking new role with University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Athletics Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An initial state and local damage review was completed by Wisconsin Emergency Management, and it suggested that the state would meet federal guidelines to receive aid and assistance, prompting Evers to ask FEMA for an assessment. Its a step towards the state potentially receiving a formal disaster declaration from President Donald Trump, along with relief in response to the damage. Federal public and individual assistance becomes available after a presidential declaration based on what a preliminary assessment says. Click here to learn more. Gov. Evers provided the following statement in the release: 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. 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. Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Gov. Evers and his office already declared a state of emergency after he visited Wauwatosa, which suffered significant damage from record flooding from downpours during the weekend of August 8-10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Red Cross of Wisconsin also provided shelter and support from Green Bay to flooded neighborhoods across Milwaukee. U.S. Venture Open returns to northeast Wisconsin for 40th year of fighting poverty In a letter from Gov. Evers to FEMAs Acting Regional Administrator, Michael Chesney, based out of Chicago, he confirmed that the state would be seeking a disaster declaration. To be clear, should Wisconsin reach the threshold to receive federal FEMA support and aid based on the results of the preliminary damage assessment, Wisconsin Emergency Management and I will work expeditiously to submit a formal request for a presidential disaster declaration. Wisconsin Emergency Management and FEMA have been in close coordination this week and we appreciate FEMAs support and assistance. I look forward to this continued partnership and receiving support from FEMA and the federal government to support Wisconsins efforts to recover and rebuild. Governor Tony Evers letter to FEMAs Acting Regional Administrator Below is the full copy of Gov. Evers letter to FEMA. Governor-Tony-Evers-Letter-to-FEMADownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Texas has opened nominations for the 42nd Annual Governors Volunteer Awards, seeking to recognize exceptional volunteers statewide. The awards highlight Texas commitment to honoring citizens who strengthen their communities through volunteer service. Winners will be celebrated at the Governors Mansion during National Volunteer Month in April 2026. Every day, Texans from all walks of life give their time and talents to lift up their neighbors and strengthen the fabric of our communities, said First Lady Cecilia Abbott. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She encouraged Texans to nominate outstanding individuals and organizations whose compassion and leadership are a testament to the Texas spirit. The awards program, administered by the OneStar Foundation, spans nine categories, including the Governors Lifetime Achievement Award and the First Ladys Rising Star Award. Other categories recognize volunteer families, community champions, education advocates, corporate partners, disaster response efforts, and AmeriCorps service members. OneStar President and CEO Chris Bugbee emphasized the programs broader significance. Through this partnership with the Governor and First Lady, we celebrate the perseverance, generosity, and impact of Texans who are building stronger, more connected communities across our state, Bugbee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The awards ceremony will take place at the Governors Mansion with First Lady Abbott serving as Honorary Chair. Interested nominators can find submission guidelines, eligibility requirements, and deadlines here. The program enters its fifth decade of recognizing Texas volunteers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service. Past recipients have included individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds across the states 254 counties. PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued an order aimed at eliminating mistakes in Virginias SNAP program, with the goal of helping to save money and make the program more efficient. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, is entirely paid for in Virginia with federal money. Beginning Oct. 1, 2027, if Virginias SNAP error rates stay high, the state will have to help pay for SNAP benefits. Currently, Virginias error rate for SNAP is 11.5%; the goal is to lower the percentage to 6%. An error rate shows how often mistakes are made in deciding who gets SNAP and how much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The amount of the state match will depend on the demonstrated error rates, ranging from zero to 15 percent of the total benefit amount paid, according to a release issued by the governor. If error rates stay at 11.5% or higher by 2027, Virginia may have to pay more than $270 million per year. The release states that if a state has a payment error rate that is less than 6%, it means the state will not have a benefits contribution. This new initiative will allow Virginia to start improving the processes, reducing the error rate and the state share of payments. SNAP processing is done by the local department of social services and not the state. Executive Directive 13: Materially reducing errors in SNAP benefit processing Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Youngkin has directed the Secretary of Health and Human Resources, the Commissioner of Social Services and the Secretary of Finance to take the following steps to reduce errors in SNAP benefit processing at the local department of social services, driving the error rate down below six percent. 1. Design and execute an incentive and disincentive program to encourage local agencies to adopt best practices in error rate reduction. 2. Require local benefit staff to complete a core set of trainings to perform job functions. 3. Require benefits staff to verify applicant expenses and household composition instead of accepting self-attestation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 4. Investigate public-private partnerships to free up capacity at local social services agencies so that more efforts can be directed toward reducing Virginias SNAP error rate. 5. Institute system reform and increase quality control measures utilizing contractors, when necessary. 6. Explore the feasibility of contracting with a vendor using cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, to improve the accuracy and automation of SNAP decisions. Mallory Reckling with the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore says this could affect them. Reckling told 10 On Your Side that for every one meal the food bank provides, SNAP provides 9 meals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I know theyre talking about a lot of training, and that takes time. So itll make it harder or slower for people, eligible people, to get their SNAP benefits, which will definitely drive more people to food banks and the pantry lines in the interim, said Reckling. Virginia has two years to lower the error rate. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. (The Center Square) Americas largest active wildfire is now 54% contained, according to a report on a U.S. government website. Containment of the Dragon Bravo Fire in Arizona rose from the 44% figure reported on Wednesday on the interagency website InciWeb. The blaze, which is occurring on the Grand Canyon's North Rim, has burned an estimated 144,432 acres. This fire started on July 4 because of a lightning strike. Currently 1,125 firefighters are battling it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no estimate for when the Grand Canyon National Park fire will be 100% contained, said Mike Johnson, the public information officer for the unified, interagency response. To contain the fire, firefighters are establishing a line around it, Johnson told The Center Square. He added that firefighters are using heavy equipment to move shrubbery and aircraft to bring water to hotspots. Putting out a fire of this magnitude and getting it to completely stop is a really difficult endeavor," Johnson said. He noted the size of the Dragon Bravo Fire makes it hard to get to every hotspot, making containment that much more critical. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What we've really got to do is secure the perimeter," he explained. "And then wait for nature to take its course, wait for cooling rains to come in, and then keep crews on it for a long time to watch, make sure nothing gets out of there." There is a 30% to 50% chance of wetting rains with lightning and gusty winds between Thursday and Friday, according to InciWeb. Johnson said firefighters are excited about the progress they have made, but realize they still face challenging conditions. Firefighters have made strides in containing this fire compared to earlier in August, when the fire was 123,171 acres and only 13% of it was contained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to KTAR News, the Dragon Bravo Fire ranks as the seventh biggest blaze in Arizona's history. Even with the massive fire still burning, the Grand Canyon is still open to visitors. Johnson said the South Rim in the national park is accessible. He noted people can still do some hiking while also visiting markets and other businesses. **Related Video Above: Akron PD releases footage of fatal officer-involved shooting AKRON, Ohio (WJW) An Akron police officer has been cleared by a Summit County grand jury after fatally shooting a man at a gas station last August. After a comprehensive review, the grand jury reportedly found there was not sufficient evidence to charge an unnamed officer in the police-involved shooting of 54-year-old Michael Jones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lead federal monitor overseeing Cleveland police resigns: I-Team We stand by our officer, who followed his training in a deadly situation, Brian Lucey, President of Akron FOP Lodge #7, said in a statement following the decision. Our officer was being dragged down a street by a stolen truck and had no choice but to defend his own life. While the loss of life is always tragic, our officers all deserve to go home to their families at the end of their shift. On Aug. 17 of last year, officers were reportedly looking into a spotted stolen vehicle at the Duke and Duchess gas station parking lot on East Avenue around 1 a.m. Video footage courtesy Akron police A police officer fired two rounds during the incident, striking Jones, according to investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The medical examiners office confirmed Jones died from two gunshot wounds to the torso. Its important to recognize that todays decision was the result of an external, independent investigation being presented to a jury of Summit County residents, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said in a statement Wednesday. The Attorney Generals investigative file is being released to the public and can be viewed here. Following the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations look into the incident, a new internal investigation is now being conducted by the Akron Police Department. Todays decision indicates that a local grand jury of our fellow residents, presented with the evidence, determined that our officers conduct in this situation did not constitute criminal behavior, Malik said in the statement. The job of an officer is not easy, and it is one that comes with scrutiny, especially in situations involving fatal use of force. I want to thank our officers in the Akron Police Department for the work they do every single day in our city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) Privacy and peace concerns prompted a preliminary proposal from the Grand Rapids City Attorneys Office this week as it gauged the city commissions interest in adapting a noise ordinance. We want to make sure people are comfortable and protected to exercise their First Amendment rights, Deputy City Attorney Phillip Strom told News 8. But, coming and going from health care facilities, you should have a reasonable amount of privacy and comfort. Noise from glamping site near South Haven sparks ordinance review Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attorney added that there is no interest in limiting the content or presence of speech just its volume while presenting the idea to limit amplified sound near the entrances of facilities. Any time there are competitive constitutional right at play, like the First Amendment and the right to privacy, it causes real conversation, he said. The committee of the whole was the first to hear the idea during its Tuesday morning meeting. Committee members expressed reserved interest in taking the next step. Just over half the committee thought it was worth pursuing, while the others expressed reservations about the can of worms and slippery slopes it would present. People living near the Planned Parenthood facility on Cherry Street, where protesters regularly gather, were thrilled at the idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grand Rapids City Commission OKs wage increases for police It is extremely loud. People down the block hear it, Laska Nygaard, executive director of the Heritage Hill Association said. Its sometimes so loud I think hearing could be hurt. Those supporters even include one regular demonstrator outside of the Planned Parenthood, who lives in a neighboring building. Its really annoying. Its irritating. Its harassment, Debra Cox told News 8. Even though I am not for abortion, I feel for the women who go in there. They are intimidated and they are scared enough as it is. These men (demonstrating), they are not God. It scares people sometimes. You have children around here and they are yelling and screaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 8 also spoke with one of those demonstrators, who said they do use amplification, but only in certain situations. We usually use it for two things, Jordan Sweezer explained. One, when protestors come and try to drown us out with their speakers and car horns, and two, when we preached the gospel. Over 4,000 Kent County kids get new kicks thanks to nonprofit He contended the decibel level, saying protesters adhere to the existing city ordinance sub-section related to amplified noise from the public right-of-way, which reads: (No person shall) operate any device creating amplified sound on any public property or public right-of-way that is louder than average conversational level at a distance of one hundred (100) feet or more, measured vertically or horizontally, from the source. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We always make sure we are within the noise ordinance, Sweezer said. But we want to be heard. Since the committee is interested in pursuing the next step, the city attorneys office will draft a few examples of possible language to be considered. Attorney Strom added the office will consult with other municipalities that have similar ordinances on the books to make sure they preserve freedoms of speech and privacy while promoting peace in neighborhoods. They will return to the committee with those language options within the next few months. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. HOPE/TEXARKANA, Arkansas (KTAL/KMSS) The University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana is hosting a two-night Graphic Design Class on September 11 and 18. Register for free English as a Second Language classes hosted by CCNLA The September 11 class is Canva for Quick Professional Designs. Students will learn how to use Canva to quickly create polished content. The September 18 class is titled Adobe Illustrator for Advanced Design Skills, where students will learn how to utilize Illustrator for creating advanced, scalable designs. They will also learn how to blend both tools for professional branding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LSU Shreveport expands leisure class offerings significantly The program is $35 per person. Participants should bring a laptop with a free Canva account and Adobe Illustrator installed. The class is open to content creators, teachers, small business owners, and anyone wanting to develop fundamental design skills. Seating is limited; register early to secure your spot. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TOCHNI, Cyprus (AP) On opposite sides of ethnically divided Cyprus, even the resting places of the dead haven't been spared the fallout of war. Shattered granite crosses are strewn about the weed-choked Greek Cypriot cemeteries in the island's northern third that's in Turkish Cypriot hands. In the Greek Cypriot south, Muslim headstones in Turkish Cypriot cemeteries are concealed by overgrowth. Until 2003, no one could cross a United Nations-controlled buffer zone to place flowers at loved ones graves. In the five decades since a Turkish invasion, vandalism and the ravages of time have transformed hundreds of Cyprus' cemeteries into evidence of the geographic and political rift. But even as chances for bilateral talks to end the divide appear bleak, Greek and Turkish Cypriots have teamed up to mend mistrust and push for peace, one grave at a time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Restoration is underway at 15 civilian cemeteries on each side of the so-called Green Line cutting across the Mediterranean island. Expansion of the roughly 700,000-euro project ($815,000) to more cemeteries is being considered. The maintenance and restoration of cemeteries constitutes one of the most symbolic and morally pressing acts for a place that strives for reconciliation," said Sotos Ktoris, a Greek Cypriot member of the committee from both communities overseeing the work. The consequences of war Turkey's 1974 invasion, triggered when Athens-backed supporters of uniting Cyprus with Greece mounted a coup, prompted some 160,000 Greek Cypriots to flee their villages to safety in the south, where the internationally recognized government is seated. Some 45,000 Turkish Cypriots moved north, where authorities declared independence a decade later. To this day, only Turkey recognizes Cyprus' northern authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the displaced were the custodians of places of worship and cemeteries, both Orthodox Christian and Muslim. Churches in the north were vandalized and looted. Mosques in the south fell into neglect and decay. As part of U.N.-mediated efforts to achieve a peace deal, both sides have found ways to address past wrongs, including the restoration of churches, mosques and other monuments by the committee. Earlier this year, Greek Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Turkish Cypriot leader Ersin Tatar expanded the committees work to cemetery restoration, with European Union funding and U.N. support and assistance. Work began in May. Seeking mutual respect Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greek Cypriot workers last month were rebuilding the 100-year-old stone wall at one Muslim cemetery in Tochni, a village nestled in hilly countryside near the southern coast. Turkish Cypriot residents had outnumbered Greek Cypriots here by nearly three to one until they were transferred north a few months after the Turkish invasion ended. Many Turkish Cypriots from the north are now visiting the village to reconnect with their past, find family homes and honor their ancestors, according to Tochnis Greek Cypriot community leader, Charoulla Efstratiou. Just as we demand that they respect us, our dead, our religion and so forth, I believe that we owe the same respect to them, Efstratiou said. At the Tochni cemetery, a small patch of crimson flowers emerged from the parched soil atop the grave of a man who died 65 years ago, planted recently by his descendants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putting up crosses In the village of Palaikythro that Turkish Cypriots have renamed Balikesir, broken crosses at the Greek Cypriot cemetery have been set upright again until theyre fully mended. Virtually nothing was left intact. Turkish Cypriot contractor Recep Guler said it wasnt easy to restore the external walls and gate. Murude Erzen, the villages Turkish Cypriot community leader, said the cemetery is part of shared cultural heritage. When I saw this place, I was very upset, wondering why it had become like this, Erzen told the United Nations Development Program in footage shared with the AP. Turkish Cypriot authorities had denied the AP access. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Erzen became community leader, she resolved to do something about it. Sotiroulla Mina Iniati, the Greek Cypriot community leader of Palaikythro, said the cost of full restoration of crosses will be borne by families or the community council. Greek Cypriots continue to elect their own community leader to affirm their claim to their lost lands and preserve their memory. For us, this is a sacred place, Iniati said. We feel that in this way, the souls of our dead who have for 51 years remain neglected, will be able to rest." An intractable dispute The last major push for a peace deal in Cyprus collapsed in 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, the Turkish Cypriots and Turkey shun the U.N.-endorsed framework for reunifying Cyprus as a federation. They insist on a two-state deal that Greek Cypriots reject because they view partition as dooming the island to Turkeys influence, with its military hardware and troops stationed there in perpetuity. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has met Christodoulides and Tatar twice this year and is expected to meet them again in the coming months in a bid to keep peace talks alive. Greece has seen a slight improvement in its wildfire situation, but officials on Thursday were not declaring the danger over. Firefighters, volunteers and local residents continue to battle numerous blazes across the country. The worst-affected areas include regions around the port city of Patras, the islands of Chios and Zakynthos, and a stretch of terrain near the Albanian border. Aerial firefighting began at first light after ground crews worked through the night, a senior fire service officer told Greek television. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Conditions vary by region. On Zakynthos, the fire is now under control, while concerns remain high on Chios. "The fire front there is currently our biggest challenge," said Kostas Tsingas, head of the fire brigade officers association, speaking to broadcaster Skai. In the Patras area, Greece's third-largest city, the situation has also improved, according to local media. On Wednesday, heavy smoke forced the evacuation of a hospital and a care home. By Thursday, there was no active fire front, but crews remain on site as smouldering hotspots could quickly reignite. Tsingas expressed hope that the combination of overnight ground operations and targeted water drops in the morning would help stabilize the situation. "Today will be significantly more favourable than previous days, thanks to lighter winds," he said. Greek firefighters gained ground Thursday against a wildfire outside the third-largest city of Patras, while planes bombed water on blazes on three other fronts. Firefighters faced "scattered" pockets of flames around Patras, Greece's main port to Italy, after an overnight struggle, fire department spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said. The fire close was "still active" however in the eastern outskirts of the city of 250,000, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing data from the EU's Copernicus satellite monitoring programme, the Athens national observatory said fires in the Patras area, the Aegean island of Chios, the Ionian island of Zakynthos and near the western city of Preveza had burned over 10,000 hectares (25,000 acres) of forest and agricultural land. Authorities said three men aged 19 to 27 had been detained on suspicion of starting some of the fires around Patras on Tuesday. "There are clear signs and even proof of malicious activity that led to these fires," Civil Protection Minister Giannis Kefalogiannis told a news briefing. He added that fire services had been called to an average of 70 blazes daily, up from an average of around 40. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials on Wednesday evacuated a children's hospital and a retirement home as the fire moved close to Patras. The ambulance service said over 70 people, including several firefighters, had been treated for minor burns and respiratory problems, many of them in the Patras area. Many of the stricken areas remained without water or electricity on Thursday. Patras' communist Mayor Kostas Peletidis this week criticised the government for not sending enough aerial support. Kefalogiannis, of the ruling conservative party, hit back Thursday claiming that the mayor had encouraged citizens to ignore evacuation orders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexandros Dimitrakopoulos, a forestry professor at Thessaloniki's Aristotle University, said forest fires in Greece now regularly threaten urban areas. "We have seen it in (the greater Athens area) since 2021, now in Patras," he told state TV ERT. Other important fires continued to burn on the islands of Zakynthos and Chios and near Preveza. Some 600 emergency crew and nearly 30 water bombing aircraft were deployed in all locations. Greece this summer has faced several major forest fires amid high temperatures which scientists say human-induced climate change is intensifying. jph-mr/tw Greenpeace activists have unfurled a massive anti-fossil fuel canvas by renowned sculptor Anish Kapoor on a North Sea platform in a rare protest on an active offshore gas rig, the group said Thursday. Seven Greenpeace climbers scaled Shell's Skiff gas platform, 45 nautical miles off the Norfolk coast in eastern England, and attached the 12-metre (40 feet) by eight-metre (26 feet) work, entitled "BUTCHERED". They then pumped 1,000 litres of a "blood-red" mixture, composed of seawater, beetroot powder, and non-toxic dye, onto the canvas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement British-Indian artist Kapoor said the work reflected the "butchery" that oil companies are "inflicting on our planet." BUTCHERED is a "visual scream that gives voice to the calamitous cost of the climate crisis, often on the most marginalised communities across the globe," he added. A Shell UK spokesperson said the protest was "extremely dangerous, involved illegally trespassing, and put their own and others' lives at risk." The stunt came as much of southern Europe suffered a relenless heatwave with the tinderbox conditions helping the spread of many deadly wildfires. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The extreme heat, which scientists say human-driven climate change is intensifying, has fuelled blazes and strained firefighters from Greece to Portugal. Parts of the UK also experienced the fourth heatwave of the summer season, with several regions in England facing drought conditions. Philip Evans, senior campaigner at Greenpeace UK, said the artwork was a "visual gut-punch that makes visible the suffering and damage caused by the oil and gas industry right at the place where the harm begins." Shell and Greenpeace last December settled a lawsuit brought by the British energy giant after environmental protesters boarded a ship carrying an oil and gas platform near the Canary Islands for several days. In that agreement, Greenpeace also agreed that demonstrators would not go within 500 metres of three Shell North Sea sites for five years, and a fourth site for a decade. jwp/aks/tw Three candidates are vying for the opportunity to represent District 4 on the Groveland City Council and will see their campaigns tested through the results of the upcoming municipal primary election on Aug. 19. Incumbent councilwoman Judith Fike will be running against Groveland residents Jim ONeil and Michael Jaycox, each with distinct ideas about local issues like housing affordability, traffic, growth and more. Embroiled in controversy in recent weeks surrounding past social media posts, Fike seeks to retain the council seat she was appointed to back in October 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ONeil and Jaycox have spent their time in Groveland serving leadership roles within the Trilogy of Orlando Veterans and other community organizations, looking to shake up the council with their local experience and backgrounds in the Navy and Air Force, respectively. Heres a look at each candidate as we near the primary election next week. Judith Fike The months leading up to the primary election have been tumultuous for Fike, who was suspended from Groveland City Council for alleged racist and anti-gay social media posts, resurfaced by reporting from the Clermont Sun on June 30. Fike was reinstated to the city council a week later after Circuit Judge Dan Mosely issued a temporary injunction against the city, siding with Fike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Running a campaign dedicated to curbing overdevelopment that has stripped other cities of their character, Fike said in a written response to the Orlando Sentinel that shes focused on making sure every tax dollar is spent wisely. Managing growth responsibly will determine our quality of life for decades, along with revitalizing downtown to create a walkable hub of shops and restaurants, ensuring that the recent pioneers who have invested in small businesses can continue to grow and flourish, she said. With housing affordability and traffic both heavily influenced by rampant local growth in recent years, Fike said she wants to see the area grow with purpose. Traffic is the result of decades of residential growth without enough jobs, roads, or connections throughout the region, she said. In Groveland, we need to improve economic development to ensure our residents can find quality jobs in Groveland and can avoid the congestion plaguing the rest of Central Florida. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fike said that as a sitting council member, shell bring leadership, experience and community connection to keep Groveland moving forward responsibly. I have the experience, relationships and commitment to lead effectively from day one, she said. When I show up, its not for a photo op, its to build real connections and get real work done for Groveland. Jim ONeil Jim ONeil, who retired from the U.S. Navy in 1994, moved into Grovelands active adult community, Trilogy Orlando, in 2018 and currently works with the Lake County School District to provide risk management services as the districts FEMA manager. I handle all the FEMA claims and any mitigation that has to do with repair and trying to get reimbursement from FEMA, he said during a recent candidate forum in Groveland. Its to try and get the school whole again from a financial standpoint and get money back for the damage that any storm causes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bringing an analytical, evaluation-centered presence to city council, ONeil said his most important issue is making sure the health of the City of Groveland is accurately assessed before making major decisions. I think our entire strategic plan has to be revisited and reanalyzed based on the growth that weve experienced over the last three to five years, he said. I dont think were keeping up and a lot of the contracts of the developments are older than five years old and are now being commenced with permitting and all that. Im of the opinion that many of those need to be revisited to determine their current impact on our area. With a background in code enforcement, budgeting and operational oversight, ONeil said he would be a great candidate to represent District 4. I have that background working in government, but also with commercial enterprises as well, he said. I think I have a broad scope of effective experience that will benefit the city of Groveland. Michael Jaycox Air Force veteran and New York native Michael Jaycox has lived in Trilogy since 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jaycox is a former civil engineer and worked in quality assurance for over 40 years upon his retirement from the Air Force, using his background over the decades to learn how meetings are supposed to run, how to make consensus documents and other tasks required of city officials. Im the only one running that has actual experience in writing codes and laws, he said. Running a campaign focused on his self-developed P.O.P priority on people platform, Jaycox said his most important issue is making sure residents are informed about the city charter. Its time to have people read the city charter and follow the city charter, correct the city charter where it needs to be corrected and improve the city charter, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While there are plenty of reasons to update the city charter, Jaycox said, slowing rapid growth is at the top of the list and he argued it should be a priority for city leaders with an emphasis on a one house, one acre directive. Beyond traffic, affordable housing and a host of other local issues, Jaycox said he is committed to representing Groveland by ensuring each decision is made through the lens of his potential District 4 constituents. If its neutral for District 4, Im going to look how it works for the whole city, but District 4 is the one that Im representing, he said. People might sit there and say you have to be a little more global and think about the whole city, but I have to think about the people who elected me. Contact me at jwilkins@orlandosentinel.com or 407-754-4980. Students in the bailiwick have received their A-Level and Level 3 results. The Sixth Form Centre in Guernsey achieved a 96% pass rate across A-Level grades, with 63% at A* to C. Blanchelande College celebrated its 100% A-Level pass rate for the fourth consecutive year since it reopened its sixth form in 2020. Mr Kieran James, head teacher at the Sixth Form Centre, said the majority of his students had done "extraordinarily well" and were "really pleased". Chloe and her mum celebrated A Level results at the Sixth Form Centre [BBC] He added: "We have a lot of students who have secured employment offers already but should they need any support with employment locally or elsewhere then we can refer them to the careers service, we can also contact employers on the Island." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said results at the college showed 18% were A* or A grade or equivalent and 63% were A* to C grade. 'Dedication and perseverance' The island's Elizabeth College achieved 78% of grades at A* to C. Jenny Palmer, headteacher, said she was "really proud" of her students. "We celebrate the achievements and progress across the ability range and recognise that all the hard work, determination, and commitment have been rewarded by this great set of results," she said. Alexa Yeoman, headteacher at Blanchelande College, said her students can now progress to the next stage of their future. "This year's A Level results are a testament to the dedication and perseverance of our students and teachers, as well as the invaluable support of our parents," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daniele Harford-Fox, headteacher at The Ladies' College, said: "I'm so proud of every student whose Alevel results we're celebrating today." She said results day in any school brought mixed emotions. "It's important to note that whilst impressive, the girls are not just their examination performance," she said. "They are articulate, thoughtful, and authentic young women with a myriad of passions from students who are pursuing Engineering, Dance and International Relations to those going to Oxford and Cambridge." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The College achieved a 100% pass rate with 91% A* to C grade and 41% A* to A grade. Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. More on this story Related internet links WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The gunman in a series of inside-job robberies at a Walgreens drug store was sentenced to more than 16 years in prison. 26-year-old Kamanye Williams pleaded guilty on March 11 to conspiracy to interfere with interstate commerce by robbery, two counts of using, carrying, possessing, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and aiding and abetting. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Former Chinatown Walgreens manager faces 20 years for inside-job robberies Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams worked with two Walgreens store managers and one other person to commit robberies during a nearly eight-month period on seven different days in the Districts Chinatown neighborhood, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office in D.C. The conspiracy began July 18, 2023, and went until Feb. 11, 2024, after their plans were thwarted by a special police officer. Each robbery followed a similar structure. The masked gunman would enter the store either right as the cash was being transported to the managers office or right after. Then, the gunman would force an employee to enter the code or enter the code themselves before robbing the employees and fleeing through the back exit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams worked with store managers, identified as Michael Robinson and London Teeter, as well as a third person to coordinate the robberies. Text exchanges showed the conspirators discussing who needed to play the victim. Robinson and Teeter took turns being the manager on duty during the incidents. Robinson would provide entail to Williams on the number of security guards, who had the codes and coordinated timing. The robberies stopped Feb. 11, 2024, when Williams plan was thwarted by a special police officer. Youngkin orders Virginia State Police investigation after Fairfax County Public Schools accused of funding abortions Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 11, 2024, around 6:30 p.m., an armed special police officer was escorting Robinson while carrying cash from the day. As Robinson was unlocking the office, Williams came up and held a gun against the SPO and threatened to kill him. The three went into the managers office, and Williams took the SPOs handgun. After putting the cash in his bag, Williams tried to leave the same way as he had before, but a second armed special police officer arrived and fired once at Williams, striking him in the chest. Williams was then taken to the hospital. Williams was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release and to pay $7,245.75 in restitution. Williams was previously convicted in 2021 in D.C. Superior Court of carrying a pistol without a license following a car-to-car shootout in Northeast that left two men injured and one of them paralyzed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. South Milwaukee Human Concerns, which serves hundreds of families with emergency food, clothing and other important services, is recovering after the Aug. 9 floodwaters caused thousands of dollars of damage to its products. The building was basically flooded from front to back and side to side, Peggy Bartelt, vice president of the board of directors at Human Concerns told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Its been a rough couple of days. Its gut-wrenching. Because of the stormwater damage, Human Concerns, 1029 Milwaukee Ave., has paused services and closed temporarily. The location serves about 800 families in South Milwaukee alone, Bartelt said. South Milwaukee Human Concerns, 1029 Milwaukee Ave., flooded during the Aug. 9 rains causing a loss of thousands of dollars of food, toys and more. In an Aug. 12 post to Facebook, Human Concerns encouraged people who are having a food emergency to call 211, the Milwaukee County social services help line. What was lost at South Milwaukee Human Concerns? From food to toys, thousands of dollars worth of items were damaged by the Aug. 9 flooding at the South Milwaukee Human Concerns. Everything that was stored on the bottom of numerous shelves was lost in the flooding, including eight cases of macaroni and cheese, which Bartelt called a staple for local families, with each case holding between 36 and 40 boxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Human Concerns has reached out to Hunger Task Force for assistance, but Bartelt said much food comes from local food drives. Kate Kazan, communications and public relations manager at Hunger Task Force, told the Journal Sentinel that Hunger Task Force is committed to replacing food lost by our pantry partners across the city due to the flooding. She said Hunger Task Force has 70 food network partners across Milwaukee County, including food pantries, homeless shelters, and meal sites. Of those, the South Milwaukee Human Concerns was the only pantry to report significant damage which impacted operations, Kazan said. Hunger Task Force is continuing to monitor for any additional needs or requests for assistance from our food network, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other than food, many school supplies and a lot of brand-new toys used for birthdays and Christmas were also damaged, including boxes of posters donated from Walmart that were destroyed by the water. Some medical equipment that is loaned out also needs to be disinfected and cleaned, Bartelt said. From food to toys, thousands of dollars worth of items were damaged by the Aug. 9 flooding at the South Milwaukee Human Concerns. It will cost over $50,000 to clean up Human Concerns has contacted Servpro, a cleanup and restoration company, which Bartelt said is flying workers in from across the country. A Servpro representative from Arizona visited the South Milwaukee Human Concerns and quoted in excess of $50,000 for the cleanup. Servpro employees told the nonprofit they can also potentially sanitize some of the more expensive toys, Bartelt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last thing you want to do is give out anything to the families or kids thats dirty that they might get sick from, Bartelt said. Thats just the opposite of what were trying to do. Were trying to support the community and keep them healthy. Every shelf must be unloaded, everything needs to be moved, disinfected and cleaned, Bartelt said. This could take time with only three employees two part time. The community that supports us on a regular basis has been extremely supportive and theyre all reaching out to help, but we cant do a whole lot yet until Servpro gets in there, Bartelt said. She said it's not yet known when Servpro will be able to assist. In the meantime, the nonprofit purchased four dehumidifiers to get the moisture out of the air. Bartelt said no local stores had any of them in stock, so they had to order them on Amazon for $800 apiece. How can people help South Milwaukee Human Concerns? Unfortunately, no food or product donations can be accepted at this time because theres nowhere to safely store them right now, Bartelt said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the biggest way people can help is monetarily. Checks can be sent to South Milwaukee Human Concerns, P.O. Box 314, South Milwaukee, WI 53172, or donations can be made at smhumanconcerns.org. People can also sign up on the website to volunteer once the nonprofit is back up and running. When will Human Concerns be operational again? Bartelt said its still not known when the organization will be operating again for food and other products. In the meantime, the South Milwaukee Public Library has started the Little Free Food Library, asking residents to bring in non-perishable food items, according to an Aug. 13 post on the librarys Facebook page. The items will be available on a table in the lobby for anyone who needs assistance and can be picked up anytime during normal library hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Milwaukee Human Concerns is hoping to disperse school supplies starting Monday, Aug. 18. Similar to how items were given out during the COVID-19 pandemic, people will be allowed to enter the lobby and a worker will retrieve school supplies from the back. Bartelt said its not guaranteed this will happen because its somewhat dependent on when Servpro can come into the facility. She said people should either check the website or call ahead. (This story was updated to add new information and new photos) Contact Erik S. Hanley at erik.hanley@jrn.com. Like his Facebook page, The Redheadliner, and follow him on X @Redheadliner. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: South Milwaukee Human Concerns pauses operations after building floods Aug. 14 (UPI) -- With less than three weeks before Guyana's general elections Sept. 1, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has intensified his rhetoric over a long-standing territorial claim to the Essequibo, a region that makes up more than 60% of Guyana's territory and that Caracas claims as its own. The region bordered by Venezuela on the west, Brazil on the southwest and the Atlantic Ocean on the north: It contains dense rainforests, highlands, savannas and low coastal plains. In his weekly address Tuesday, Maduro said Venezuela "will recover the Essequibo sooner rather than later," a statement that heightens diplomatic tensions at a sensitive moment for the English-speaking nation, which is preparing to elect a new parliament and president amid an unprecedented oil boom and growing regional polarization. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No matter what ExxonMobil, imperialism or the International Court of Justice do, the Essequibo is and will be Venezuela's," the Venezuelan president said, firmly rejecting any ruling from the Hague-based court. While such remarks are not new in Venezuela's official rhetoric, they come as Guyana gains international prominence thanks to the rapid development of its oil industry in the offshore area adjacent to the Essequibo. Major companies such as ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC operate there under concessions challenged by Caracas. Guyana President Irfaan Ali, seeking re-election with the People's Progressive Party/Civic, has avoided direct confrontations with Venezuela, but has firmly defended Guyanese territory before the international community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The country has brought the dispute before the international court since 2018 and has reiterated its willingness to accept the court's ruling as binding. The case is moving forward in The Hague, with hearings held in April. Venezuela continues to reject the court's jurisdiction, while Guyana's government has received diplomatic backing from Caribbean nations, the Commonwealth, the United States and the Organization of American States. "The sovereignty of the Essequibo is not at stake. Guyana is committed to the peaceful resolution of the conflict in accordance with international law," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said recently. Analysts say the Venezuelan government may be using the territorial claim for electoral purposes as it faces international sanctions and the recent U.S. announcement of a $50 million reward for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Maduro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi accused him of working with criminal organizations, calling him one of the world's most dangerous drug traffickers and a threat to U.S. national security. By contrast, for Guyana, defending the Essequibo is a matter of national unity. In 2023, after a consultative referendum promoted by Maduro -- in which Venezuelans backed creating a state called "Guayana Esequiba" -- the Guyanese government strengthened its diplomatic strategy and stepped up its appeals at the United Nations. Guyana's political climate remains tense but stable, with seven parties registering candidates for the elections. The vote will be monitored by missions from the European Union, the Caribbean Community, or Caricom, and the Carter Center, which already has personnel deployed across the country. The Essequibo has not dominated the campaign debates, which are focused instead on economic development, equitable access to oil revenues and the fight against corruption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guyana is undergoing an unprecedented economic transformation, driven by a surge in oil production. In 2024, the economy grew 43.6%, with the oil sector expanding 57.7% and the non-oil sector 13.1%. The International Monetary Fund projects average annual growth of 14% over the next five years, supported by stronger infrastructure and higher productivity, with non-oil GDP expected to grow about 6.75%. On the oil front, Guyana has begun production from its fourth floating production, storage and offloading unit, boosting capacity to more than 900,000 barrels per day -- already surpassing Venezuela's current output -- with a goal of reaching between 1.3 million barrels by 2027 and up to 1.7 million by 2030. Fast-fashion giant H&M Group has signed a new multiyear deal with Circulose, a recycled textile company, to use more of its materials, reported Fashion Dive. A statement from H&M said the partnership will bring "significant volumes" of Circulose's fiber into the company's clothing collections in what it said is a step toward a circular economy model. Circulose makes fiber from recycled cotton waste. According to H&M, the material will replace a "substantial share of the virgin viscose" used across its brands. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement H&M's head of resource use, Cecilia Stromblad Brannsten, said: "Investing in next-generation materials is essential to achieving our goal: ensuring that 100% of our materials are recycled or sustainably sourced by 2030. "Scaling access to these solutions is key to accelerating the shift toward a circular economy for fashion." The deal is the third brand partnership that Circulose announced this year after it relaunched under its current name and new leadership following bankruptcy in 2024. The other two were with fast-fashion giant Mango and emerging designer Patrick McDowell, reported Vogue Business. Clothes made from recycled fiber are becoming more available, and reducing the need for virgin materials helps cut environmental harm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Less waste ends up in landfills a huge problem for the fashion industry and fewer trees are used to make clothing. To learn how you can support corporate sustainability efforts, visit The Cool Down's Guide. Circulose CEO Jonatan Janmark said the H&M partnership "plays a critical role in helping us reach the volumes needed to restart our factory." H&M's record is mixed. As the Guardian reported in 2023, the company faced criticism for continuing to source materials from Myanmar despite reports of labor abuses, and it later announced it would phase out suppliers there. It was also accused of greenwashing in a viral video by a TikToker for its "Conscious Choice" clothing line in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, H&M was also recently recognized for progress in climate goals, reported Fashion Dive. The nonprofit Stand.earth gave the company a B-plus score for decarbonizing its supply chain, the highest among 43 major brands. It's not perfect, but deals like this hint at a cleaner future for consumers' closets. 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. NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT) Trevonta Lynch has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for reaching for a loaded firearm in front of law enforcement officers during a traffic stop. According to a press release, Lynch, a violent repeat offender with a history of violent felonies, was on supervised probation at the time of the stop and has been convicted of 12 instances of breaking and entering. He was also found in possession of 83 grams of marijuana and various paraphernalia consistent with trafficking marijuana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lynch is subject to enhanced federal penalties, including a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence, due to his history of violent felonies. FOR MORE: CLICK HERE Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. The blacklisting of Hamas is a bold, declarative, and diplomatic move, and could have practical implications, but that depends on the next steps that are taken. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres blacklisted Hamas on the annual conflict-related sexual violence report on Thursday, the Foreign Ministry announced. Guterres also called on Israel to give the UN unfettered access to investigate the alleged detainee violations, release those arbitrarily detained, and ensure that they are released in a dignified way. He also urged Israel to investigate and prosecute all the allegations. Guterres had previously written to Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon that he put Israel on notice for potential listing in the next reporting cycle for "significant concerns of patterns of certain forms of sexual violence" that the UN has documented in prisons, a detention center, and a military base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is in reference to, among other accounts, the testimonials out of the Sde Teiman detention facility where Palestinians apprehended from Gaza were held. Danon responded that these were baseless accusations, and that the UN should focus on the horrific war crimes committed by Hamas and the immediate release of all the hostages. The blacklisting of Hamas is a bold, declarative, and diplomatic move, and could have practical implications, but that depends on the next steps that are taken. Danon told Channel 12 on Thursday, What we can do is now take it [the listing] to states that haven't recognized Hamas as a terrorist organization and try to move them in that direction. Palestinians take control of an Israeli tank after crossing the border fence with Israel from Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, October 7, 2023. (credit: ABED RAHIM KHATIB/FLASH90) He noted though that from the UN's perspective, it won't change anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The blacklist is a specifically of parties that are credibly suspected of committing or being responsible for patterns of rape or other forms of sexual violence in situations of armed conflict. The key term is patterns, which indicates that acts of sexual violence committed by Palestinians in the Hamas-led massacre cross-border attack on October 7 were not incidental or random, but intentional and deliberate acts of war. A special discussion on CRSV at the United Nations is scheduled for Tuesday (August 19). Documentation of Hamas's crimes The process of documentation that led to the listing of Hamas, nearly two years after it led the cross-border massacre attack that killed 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage, is a combination of victims and witness testimonies and a UN mission to Israel early in 2024, which were bolstered and coalesced by a Dinah Project report last month. CRSV is notoriously hard to prove, as when such a wide-scale attack takes place, evidence gets destroyed along the way or convoluted. It is therefore hard to gather later and, due to the nature of the attacks, much harder to present as concrete evidence to eventually bring justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, in this case, many of the victims were killed. Another aspect of these types of crimes is that survivors are left with unbearable trauma, and dont always come forward with their stories, or at least not always right away. Guterres also called for the immediate, unconditional, and dignified release of all hostages, while ensuring their humane treatment and for humanitarian access to them pending their release. Hamas is currently holding 50 people in captivity. On Thursday, the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute released updated numbers revealing that New Hampshire consistently trails all other U.S. states in public higher education funding. Pictured is the University of New Hampshire's Thompson Hall. (Photo by Dennis Tangney Jr./Getty Images) August is an anxious month for parents preparing to drop off their young adults at the University of New Hampshire. Most years, the UNH parent Facebook groups are filled with logistical questions: How much stuff will fit under the bed? How big are the closets? What size rug should we buy? And, to be honest, a lot of the questions suggest the parent is, understandably, having a very hard time letting go of the day-to-day management of their childs life. Theres still a lot of that type of question this year, but there are more pressing concerns represented, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why is the Philbrook Dining Hall going to be closed on weekends? Why is the library closing early on Sundays and not opening at all on Saturdays? Why are UNH students now quite literally paying more for less? And heres the big one: How is it that a public university could be so punishingly expensive for in-state students who would very much like to be here? Theres not one answer to that last question, but there is a really good place to start. On Thursday, the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute released updated numbers revealing that New Hampshire consistently trails all other U.S. states in public higher education funding. Note that NHFPI said trails all other U.S. states. It doesnt trail some or many. New Hampshire trails them all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you are a University System of New Hampshire student or parent, the figures dont exactly feel like an open door and a warm hug: The Granite State appropriated $4,629 per full-time student while the national average of all U.S. states was $11,683. Again, I want to draw special attention to what NHFPI is saying here: The $7,000 per-student gap isnt between No. 50 (New Hampshire) and No. 1 (Illinois). Seven grand is the distance between New Hampshire and the average of the 50 states. The new state budget, in place since July 1, adds to the strain. Funding for the university system which also includes Keene State College and Plymouth State University was cut by $35 million (a 17.6% hit, according to NHFPI) in the new biennium. For UNH, that contributed to the cuts mentioned above (the dining hall and library hours), as well as the first in-state tuition hike in six years, 23 layoffs, and the elimination of 13 positions. All of that means tuition plus mandatory fees for an in-state student to attend UNH in Durham now sits at $19,682 a year. If your in-state student plans to live and eat on campus (well, not at Philly on the weekends), thats another $14,700 or so, plus another $5,000 in miscellaneous and other costs, according to UNHs financial aid breakdown. So, about $40,000 a year, or $160,000 per undergraduate degree, for a New Hampshire kid to get a University of New Hampshire education. Oh, and then theres the interest payments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Add it up, and thats an awfully big debt hole for a 22-year-old, highly educated adult to start out in, isnt it? Especially in a state with some of the most unaffordable housing in the country and a top-10 national ranking when it comes to states with the highest cost of living. Also theres that pesky New Hampshire Advantage problem, where homeowners pay the fourth highest property taxes in the nation and landlords shift that burden to renters young and old. On top of all that, New Hampshire has the second oldest population in the country, just behind Maine, and offers by far the lowest minimum wage in all of New England tied to the federal rate of $7.25 (less than $300 a week), which hasnt been raised since 2009. And please spare me the nobody pays the minimum wage anecdotal argument if thats the case then why not just raise it and move us closer to the rest of the region? If youre wondering what closer might mean compared to the other New England states, the next lowest wage belongs to Vermont, at $14.01. Maybe (hopefully?) youre starting to see a pattern to our advantage when it comes to attracting and keeping younger people here, whether theyre college educated or not? In New Hampshire, you can pick an industry, any industry, and odds are youll find mention of a severe workforce shortage. Its no wonder why, is it? You cant roll out the red carpet if you already sold it to pay for tax cuts. I know thats a lot of statistical doom and gloom, but theres good news, too. New Hampshires real advantage isnt whatever tax-cutting (or tax-elimination) scheme the states conservatives pitch next in an effort to increase wealth inequality and downshift costs to those who can least afford to pay them. The real advantage is part geography, part vibe. This is a place where many people want to be because they love the lakes, mountains, beaches, and proximity to all of the other special nearby places, such as Boston, Portland, and Burlington. They love the change of seasons and the historical character here, and they love that diversity is trending in a positive direction. They love that this state was the setting for their childhood, and many of them dream of a Granite State sequel for their own kids someday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You see, a whole bunch of our youngest people want to stay and others would love to move here if only the state would have them. To be fair, its been well documented that college affordability is far from just a New Hampshire problem. Universities throughout the country are facing budget cuts, declining enrollment, and revenues that are failing to keep up with expenses. To add to all of those challenges, President Donald Trump and the Project 2025 architects operating his brain strings are putting their hostility toward higher education and public education as a whole into alarming action. So, New Hampshires not alone when it comes to the increasingly prohibitive cost of college amid a designed crisis of educational accessibility and opportunity. But as the latest numbers show, and to our great discredit, we dont have nearly as far to fall. NH police officer from Mass. rearrested on new child pornography charge A Massachusetts man who works as a police officer in New Hampshire now faces a federal child pornography charge, months after his initial arrest, authorities announced Thursday. Seabrook Police Officer John Giarrusso, a 49-year-old resident of Haverhill, is slated to face a judge in federal court in Boston after he was rearrested on Thursday morning and charged with one count of receipt of child pornography, according to United States Attorney for Massachusetts Leah B. Foley. According to the charging documents cited by Foleys office, Giarrusso knowingly received video files depicting child sexual abuse on Kik in October 2024. Federal prosecutors allege that the victims in the videos appeared to be between 5 and 11 years of age. The Essex District Attorneys Office initially charged Giarrusso with possession of child pornography and distribution of graphic sexual images to a minor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giarrusso was arraigned on those charges in March. He later posted $100,000 bail. The Seabrook Police Department says Giarrusso was placed on administrative leave after they learned of his arrest. RELATED: Mass. middle school librarian arrested on child porn charges after search of phone, locked case Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW PERRY COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56) The Perry County Sheriffs Office announced that a man who allegedly broke out of handcuffs and stole a cruiser late Wednesday has been arrested in Letcher County. Around 9 p.m. on Aug. 13, the sheriffs office said on Facebook that a sheriffs office cruiser was stolen around 8 p.m. from the Perry County Park. According to the office, Chris Combs was in custody and handcuffed behind the back in the back seat when he managed to escape his cuffs and allegedly steal the cruiser. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Kentucky State Police arrest citation said Combs allegedly squeezed through the partition in the cruiser and drove off. Police originally reported that Combs should be considered armed and dangerous and left in an unknown direction. The citation said Combs was later found in the Buck Creek area at his girlfriends home, where a police officer arrested him after a brief chase that ended with Combs being hit with a baton, causing an injury to his head. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Chris Combs was reportedly arrested by Kentucky State Police troopers on Aug. 14. (Perry County Sheriffs Office) Authorities announced just after 11:30 a.m. on Thursday that Combs had been arrested after a chase on foot with Kentucky State Police troopers in Letcher County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cruiser had been found in good condition on Dusty Road as of 1:10 p.m., per the sheriffs office. We understand some of you have had a good chuckle out of this. I promise you, Mr.Combs will not be chuckling for years to come with loss of his freedom and being off the streets, officials from the sheriffs office wrote. Christopher Combs, 30. (Letcher County Jail) Read more of the latest Kentucky news Combs was reportedly treated at Whitesburg ARH, where he received five staples. Camille Hantla contributed to this story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. If you were stuck in traffic Thursday morning on Interstate 64 east of Indian River Road in Virginia Beach, heres what happened. Just before 8 a.m., a dump truck and a sedan were involved in a crash eastbound on the interstate, causing the dump truck which was filled with dirt to overturn, according to Virginia State Police. Multiple people were taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening, police said. Lanes on I-64 were closed for hours while cleanup was underway. ___ This is a developing story. Check back throughout the day for updates. Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana and the city of Gary will allocate $5.5 million over five years to purchase more than 80 police vehicles for the Gary Police Department. The casino will donate $3 million and the city will match $2.5 million of that donation to purchase the police vehicles, according to a news release. President of Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana Matt Schuffert said the funding will ensure the Gary Police Department has the resources required to meet the citys needs, especially since the city will be home to the Lake County Convention Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We thought it was a great partnership for us, and we look forward to seeing it come to fruition, Schuffert said. Progressing the purchases over a number of years is the right thing to do just to ensure the longevity of the donation. Gary Mayor Eddie Melton said in the release that the new vehicles will help keep the city safe. Keeping our community safe will always be our top priority, Melton said. By updating our patrol vehicles, we are making sure our officers have the tools to serve our residents with the professionalism and care they deserve. In 2025, Hard Rock will donate $1 million and the city will match $500,000. The $1.5 million will be used to purchase 23 new police vehicles, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each year from 2026 to 2029, Hard Rock will donate $500,000, and the city will match $500,000. The $1 million annual investment into the department will go toward purchasing 15 police vehicles each year, according to the release. Indianas Quantity Purchase Agreement allows city government agencies to buy vehicles at a predetermined price to ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars, according to the release. In May, the council approved the $1 million donation for 2025. Erika Blackwell, city of Gary spokeswoman, said the Gary Common Council is legally required to vote on the Hard Rocks donation each year. The new police vehicles will be a variety of makes and models, each installed with department-specific equipment, including license plate readers, rear transport cages, front and rear in car video systems, push-button, voice-activated public address commands, front and rear traffic radar and mobile data terminals for officers to use to complete reports in the field, according to the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Gary Police Department averages 200 calls for service per day, which makes it the busiest police department in Northwest Indiana, said Gary Chief of Police Derrick Cannon, in the release. In 2024, the department responded to approximately 80,000 calls for service. The call volume means the department has a need for ongoing upgrades to our fleet, so we can meet the demands to better serve our community, Cannon said in the release. Our goal is to provide the highest level of protection for the city of Gary, Cannon said. The continued support from our community is something we deeply value. Our officers truly appreciate the people they serve, and were proud to protect a city that cares. akukulka@post-trib.com Extraterrestrials are already here on Earth, disguised as humans or living in secret bases hidden underground or even on the far side of the moon, according to a shocking new scientific paper from Ivy League eggheads at Harvard University, per Newsweek. The eyebrow-raising scholarly article suggests aliens are concealed in stealth or even walking among us in human form. It theorizes these ETs are a remnant form of an ancient civilization that made their home on Earth long ago, or maybe even time-travelers from the future! Were not saying this is right, were not saying that this is absolutely 100 percent the case, Montana Technological University professor Michael Masters tell CBS News, who coauthored the paper with Harvard researchers Tim Lomas and Brendan Case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were saying these are some potentialities that would explain the many UFO sightings that have been logged over the decades by military fighter pilots and civilian observers, Masters explains. As Globe has previously reported, the Pentagon is currently investigating some 1,650 sightings of UFOs, with close to half of those coming between May 2023 and June 2024, per CNN. Military brass deny that any of these were alien in origin, despite some craft performing aerial feats that defy the limits of modern technology and even physics! Mysteriously, the paper authored by Masters, Lomas and Case was taken down from ResearchGate, an online platform for scientific papers, shortly after its publication in mid-July, leading some UFO hunters to allege a cover-up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Dr. Bill Birnes, author of UFOs and the White House, has claimed for years that aliens that look just like humans have been secretly living on Earth. He exclusively tells Globe that he believes these ETs first evolved on distant planets before traveling to Earth and colonizing our planet millions of years ago. Theyve been hiding here ever since, he says. I believe they have infiltrated the highest reaches of governments across the globe. Birnes encountered one, a mysterious French defense official, while he was investigating UFO reports for the History Channel show UFO Hunters. He says the man told him, We are here. Weve been here for millions of years. He looked just like us! Birnes reports. He was human! SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn. The Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) is inspecting 24 Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) facilities after recent testing revealed elevated lead levels in water sources. According to Tennessee state law, schools built before Jan. 1, 1998, must test their water for lead. Any school with lead levels above 20 parts per billion (ppb) must conduct annual testing until results fall below that threshold, as well as notify parents of enrolled students. The Health Department said its role is to verify if the affected water sources have been taken out of service and that alternative water is available, if necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Inspections of the impacted MSCS facilities are already underway. Crews working to clear up flea infestation at Berclair Elementary In addition, SCHD is offering free blood lead screenings for children who attend the affected schools. Exposure to lead is particularly harmful to children whose brains and nervous systems are still growing and developing, said Dr. Bruce Randolph, Shelby County Health Department Director and Health Officer. Environmental lead exposure can come from water, but also other sources in a childs home or surroundings. Early detection and treatment is the best way to protect children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Parents can schedule screenings by calling 901-222-8219 to make an appointment at the Health Departments Shelby Crossing Public Health Clinic, located at 1826 Sycamore View Road. Screenings can also be requested through a childs healthcare provider. For more information about the lead testing results or to arrange a screening, parents can call the Health Department Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 901-222-8219. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SMOKE HOLE, W.Va. (WBOY) Emergency crews from multiple counties in West Virginias Eastern Panhandle coordinated their efforts Wednesday during a rescue/recovery operation in a rural part of Grant County. According to a social media post from the Petersburg Volunteer Fire Company, on Wednesday evening, multiple agencies were called to assist the department in performing a rescue and recovery operation of an injured person in a rugged and remote part of the Smoke Hole area. Picture of firetrucks at a rescue/recovery scene in Smoke Hole, W.Va. (Courtesy: Petersburg VFC) Picture of emergency vehicles at a rescue/recovery scene in Smoke Hole, W.Va. (Courtesy: Petersburg VFC) The post said the challenging terrain of the area required coordination from ground search teams, drones and high-angle rescue teams, as well as a Maryland State Police helicopter. The post also credited Grant County 911 for an exceptional job behind the scenes coordinating everything requested and needed. Picture of a Maryland State Police helicopter at a rescue/recovery scene in Smoke Hole, W.Va. (Courtesy: Petersburg VFC) No further details were provided about the incident out of respect for the individuals involved and their families. However, it is worth noting that the West Virginia Medical Examiner was called to the scene, according to the post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Petersburg Volunteer Fire Company was assisted by the Maysville Volunteer Fire Company, the Moorefield Volunteer Fire Department, the Upper Tract Volunteer Fire Department, the Pendleton County Tac Team, the Seneca Rocks Climbing Team, the Fountain Volunteer Fire Company, Grant County Ambulance, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Grant County Sheriffs Department, Maryland State Police, Grant County 911 and the Grant County and West Virginia Medical Examiner. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Taiwans armed forces have developed a launch system for AGM-114 Hellfire missiles concealed inside what otherwise looks to be a civilian truck. Taiwanese authorities say the truck-mounted launcher could provide a valuable new means of employing Hellfires, especially if its AH-1W and AH-64E attack helicopters are faced with heavy air defense threats. It also offers a mobile strike capability that is more difficult for an opponent to spot, and that could be particularly useful for bolstering shore defenses in the face of a Chinese amphibious operation. The truck-mounted Hellfire launcher was showcased in a video, seen below, put out today by the Military News Agency, an official outlet of Taiwans Ministry of National Defense (MND). The 209th Arsenal, part of the MNDs Armaments Bureau, was responsible for crafting the launch system. The system consists of a standard twin-rail Hellfire launch rack on a mount inside the main body of the truck. Roll-up doors on either side of the body open to allow the missiles to fire out the right side and the backblast to vent the other way. A view of the launcher inside the truck. Military News Agency capture In addition, there is a sensor mast that extends through a sliding hatch on the roof of the trucks body. Mounted on top is what looks to be a small radar, as well as a ball-type sensor turret, which are typically equipped with a mix of electro-optical and infrared cameras. The turret may also contain a laser designator. Typical laser-guided Hellfires are seen at one point in the Military News Agency video, but millimeter-wave radar-guided AGM-114L Longbow variants are seen actually being test-fired. The system could be able to employ Hellfires from Taiwans stocks with either type of guidance. A view of the truck-mounted launcher firing a missile. The sensor mast is also seen extended. Military News Agency capture Taiwanese personnel seen loading a live AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire onto the launcher. Military News Agency capture Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vehicle-mounted missile system is designed for asymmetric warfare, a member of the 209th Arsenal, identified only as Colonel Su, says in the video, according to a machine translation. In wartime, we may face enemy air threats in anti-armor missions. Weve integrated the air-based Hellfire missile into a land-based Hellfire system. As noted, Taiwans primary means of employing the Hellfire currently are its AH-1W Super Cobra and AH-64E Apaches. As TWZ has increasingly called attention to, in general, attack helicopters continue to have relevance on modern battlefields, but their survivability and employability are increasingly in question. For Taiwan, its most pressing threat scenario is an invasion of the island from the mainland by Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA), which would bring major anti-air capabilities to bear, as well as heavily target established operating bases for helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. A Taiwanese AH-64E on display loaded with inert laser and radar-guided Hellfires, as well as 70mm rockets and air-to-air versions of the Stinger missile. Youth Daily News On top of the additional flexibility they offer by being road mobile, Hellfire launchers concealed inside what outwardly look to be civilian trucks would present targeting challenges for enemy forces. Any sufficiently-sized truck could potentially be a missile launch platform. They could also use shoot-and-scoot tactics to further increase their surivability. Broadly speaking, camouflage, concealment, and deception tactics are already an important part of the Taiwanese armed forces repertoire, especially when it comes to urban warfare. Purpose-built military vehicles disguised as civilian construction cranes and concealed in junk piles have appeared publicly in past large-scale exercises. A look at the truck-based Hellfire system with its right-side door closed, but the sensor mast extended. Military News Agency capture Missile and rocket artillery launchers hidden in plain sight inside civilian-style trucks, as well as unassuming shipping containers, have become something of a trend globally in recent years. China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and even the United States have all been developing and/or fielding systems that fall into these categories. Terrorists and other non-state actors have also employed improvised concealed launch systems over the years. North Korean rocket artillery launchers hidden inside civilian-style trucks on parade in 2023. KCNA In a more directly relevant example, Ukraines armed forces fielded launch systems for the Hellfire-derived Brimstone missiles concealed inside civilian-style trucks soon after Russia launched its all-out invasion back in February 2022. This was a capability rushed to the battlefield with the help of the United Kingdom. Though the core concept behind the system for Ukraine is very similar to what Taiwan has now shown, Brimstone has dual millimeter-wave radar and laser guidance modes, as well as an ability to autonomously search targets after arriving in a designated area, features not found on known Hellfire variants. #Ukraine: Finally, we can take a look at the ground launching platform for Brimstone missiles it was developed by Britain in a very short time especially for the Ukrainian army. The missiles are already used on the front line, however the event we see is likely to be training. pic.twitter.com/OhIJZNMiwZ Polymarket Intel (@PolymarketIntel) May 12, 2022 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Military News Agency video, Colonel Su from the 209th Arsenal did acknowledge certain limitations with the new truck-mounted Hellfire launcher, at least in its current guise. Once mounted on the ground, its affected by terrain and topography. How do we lock onto our target? During launch, we may need to modify the firing logic to ensure accurate impact, he said, again according to a machine translation. This is a key technical challenge we must overcome. Attack helicopters employing laser or radar-guided Hellfires have the inherent benefit of being elevated sensor platforms, offering better fields of view to spot targets and then cue missiles to them. The elevated mast on Taiwans truck-mounted launcher is clearly designed to help with when it comes to firing the missiles from the ground. The vehicles mobility could also help it get into more ideal firing positions to begin with. The footage released today shows the truck emplaced near a beach and firing missiles at a shipping container target floating offshore. Engaging incoming landing craft and amphibious vehicles during an invasion scenario would certainly be one use case for this new ground-based Hellfire capability. Taiwanese forces already train to use vehicle-mounted and man-portable anti-tank guided missiles in this role. The Army's First Combat Zone simulated defending Penghu against an amphibious enemy invasion in a live-fire drill conducted before dawn on day six of Taiwans Han Kuang exercises. pic.twitter.com/kYhuBQNORm Focus Taiwan (CNA English News) (@Focus_Taiwan) July 14, 2025 It is also worth noting that ground-based Hellfire launch systems have existed for decades. This includes the Hellfire Shore Defense System (HSDS), also known as the RBS-17 or Robot 17 in Swedish service, again highlighting its value in this particular role. Sweden has supplied RBS-17s to the Ukrainian armed forces, who have used them in combat against non-maritime targets. A Ukrainian missile team fires an RBS-17 (ground launched AGM-114C Hellfire) at a Russian position, eastern Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/9bkMicyhji OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) December 19, 2023 Separately, the radar-guided AGM-114L has emerged in recent years as a useful air and surface-launched anti-air weapon, especially against lower-end drones. This might open the door to Taiwan employing concealed truck-mounted Hellfire launchers in an air defense role. . @USArmy Soldiers engage an unmanned aerial system (UAS) from an AH-64 with upgraded Hellfire missile during Red Sands training exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. @usarmycentral pic.twitter.com/HG9ChuWxt6 U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) September 30, 2024 For Taiwan, the truck-based Hellfire system reflects a larger ongoing debate about the correct mix of traditional high-end military capabilities and more asymmetric ones to challenge the much larger and increasingly advanced PLA. For some time now, U.S. officials have been pressuring Taiwanese authorities to focus more on things like kamikaze drones, which can be acquired in large quantities relatively quickly and cost-effectively, rather than more exquisite assets like main battle tanks and attack helicopters. This has most recently taken the form of a concept commonly referred to as Hellscape, which envisions filling the airspace and waters around the island with huge numbers of uncrewed systems to try to overwhelm invading Chinese forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, Taiwans new concealed Hellfire launch system still looks in the early stages of development, but presents attributes that would clearly be attractive to the islands armed forces, especially in the event of an invasion from the mainland. Contact the author: joe@twz.com BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) The capital region helped Fill the Truck with pet supplies to bring to local shelters. The Louisiana First News team was set up at the Walmart on Burbank Drive from 6 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. on Friday, August 15, for our annual Clear the Shelters campaign, where we work to find forever homes for shelter animals. The goal was to fill a truck bed with pet supplies: food, kitty litter, toys, and everything else you could think of. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Louisiana First News staff asked shoppers to remember their furry friends while shopping. Take a look at the list of participating shelters in 2025: Denham Springs Animal Shelter Must Luv Dogs Dantes Hope Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue West Baton Rouge Parish Animal Shelter Were in our eleventh year of Clear the Shelters. Its a pet adoption initiative started by NBC Universal, and local NBC affiliates take part in each year. Clear The Shelters celebrated its 10th anniversary last year with nearly 170,000 adoptions, marking a single-year high. The campaign also raised more than half a million dollars for participating shelters and rescues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2015, thanks to the Clear the Shelters initiative, well over one million pets have been adopted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How to donate to the Clear The Shelters campaign 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. CENTER POINT, Texas (Nexstar) Nathan and Audrey Rich, a newly married couple, felt like they had adulting figured out. They were renting a home and a workshop on a property in Kerr County. Audrey worked at the local bank across the street and Nathan ran his diesel repair company out of the workshop. Then the Independence Day Floods happened. The Richs home, about 1,000 feet from the river bank, took on three feet of water and mud that destroyed the interior of their home, and damaged tools and vehicles inside Nathans workshop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Audrey and Nathan, along with Audreys parents and brothers, safely evacuated in hip-deep water. Audrey recalled the moment they went back to the home to see the damage. We walked in and it broke our hearts, Audrey said through tears. Their wedding photos were thrown across the front yard. A pool table in the garage with significant value to the couple was ruined. Audrey said she saw Nathan cry for only the second time since theyve been together. Everybody would come over no matter what the day, and we were the house in the center of all the houses, so everybody would come over and play pool and hang out, Audrey explained. The couple is now trying to find a new place to live while restarting their business and paying their bills. It looked like they were going to get some help from Austin after Gov. Greg Abbott called on all legislators to come back to the Capitol building in a special session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the 18 items on the agenda was relief funding for Hill Country Floods. However, those efforts have been put on pause as Democrats and Republicans battle over redistricting proposal that would give Republicans an advantage to pick up five additional seats in Congress ahead of the 2026 midterms. More than 50 Texas House Democrats fled the state to block any votes from happening. A process known as breaking quorum. Looking for financial help The couple has moved into a camper located on one of their friends property and is taking one day at a time. Nathan said he applied for help through FEMA as soon as his internet was restored. An inspector with FEMA and their insurance company came out to look at the damage. Audrey said they were able to get $10,600 from FEMA for the personal property they lost. However, they estimate there was about $60,000 worth of damage done to the house and the workshop. Nathan started applying for grants through local groups and county governments and was able to secure about $30,000 worth solely for his business. He is not sure he wouldve gotten that money if it wasnt for his business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the couple has not had the best luck getting money for their living situation. The Community Foundation of the Hill Country began doling out millions of dollars to different groups to help first responders, schools, businesses, and families impacted by the floods. The foundation granted the Center Point Alliance for Progress $200,000 to allow them to distribute the money to families impacted in Center Point. Susan Walker, the alliances treasurer, said 58 families applied for funds. We have a committee that actually went to their houses to verify that they did have damage, Walker explained. The group also was gifted private donations that increased their fund to about $270,000. Walker said the alliance is giving out money in two phases. The first phase cut a $2,500 check for each family that applied. For the Riches, that money paid one month of rent for the workshop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We dont have the money to just rebuild, go buy a house, go rent somewhere, Audrey said. We need help to restart. In total, Walker said their fund will be able to pay each family about $4,500 to $4,600, but she understands more needs to be done to help people. It would be nice for our government to want to help but were going to try to make sure theyre taken care of regardless, Walker said. Collateral damage Kerr County residents waiting for funds to come from the state are becoming collateral damage as a political drama plays out in Austin. Texas Democrats have vowed to prevent quorum until the first special session is ended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, said Friday will be the last chance for Democrats to come back to the Texas House floor. If a quorum is not met, both chambers will end the session and Abbott has vowed to call another special session immediately beginning Friday. Both sides have pointed fingers at each other when it comes to the lack of legislative help for the flood victims. Republicans have regularly criticized Democrats for leaving the state. Abbott posted on his X account Wednesday, These representatives were elected to cast votes not run away from their responsibilities. On the other side, Texas Democrats have accused Abbott and Republican leadership of using the floods as leverage to get a new congressional map passed to appease President Donald Trump. On Tuesday, nine Senate Democrats walked out of the chamber just before it considered and approved the controversial redistricting map that started the quorum break. Thats why we walked out because this session should only be about flood relief, and we refuse to engage in a corrupt process, the group said in a released statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some House Democrats have even argued the governor has the power to transfer money within different state departments to help provide relief for flood victims. State Rep. Armando Walle, D-Houston, wrote an opinion piece in the Houston Chronicle where he said, Gov. Abbott has the power to make that happen efficiently, and without inappropriately tying this tragedy up in partisan politics or political games. Shannon Halbrook, a fiscal policy analyst at Every Texan, a nonpartisan policy advocate, confirmed the governor does have the power to transfer money to different state agencies during an emergency. Its a process called budget execution. The governor has to make a proposal to the Legislative Budget Board, which is a state agency thats in really in charge of the budget made up of members of the legislature, and then they review it, Halbrook explained. It has been used in the past. Halbrook said in the 2022-2023 biennium there was $415 million moved around for some behavioral health support for the Uvalde victims, and then $1.3 billion was moved around for Operation Lone Star. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Halbrook said the governor can not execute this power when the legislature is in a regular or special session. One day at a time The Riches say they are not too focused about whats happening in Austin. I got way more going on than to sit and watch the news and be mad at Democrats or be mad at Republicans, or whatever, Nathan said. His business is running once again. He and his wife say they are taking things one day at a 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 KXAN Austin. The Henry County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on Tuesday to discuss the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 millage rates, proposing an unchanged rate of 15.733 mills for the general fund and special service district. A county commissioner also addressed public concerns about increasing fair market values for their property, which means people end up paying more in taxes despite the millage rate holding steady. The meeting, which was the first of three public hearings, focused on maintaining the current millage rate to support a budget of $287,797,000, an increase from the previous fiscal years budget of of $259,700,000. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Budget Director Bernita Campbell said the FY2026 budget would allocate funds towards county services, road improvements, expanding judicial services and public safety enhancements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Henry County Tax Commissioner Michael Harris said the calculation of the millage rate and discussed the homestead exemption, which freezes the county governments portion of the property tax bill for homeowners. Here's how the proposed millage rate breaks down in Henry County. Henry County is one of about 30 counties in Georgia that has implemented a frozen homestead exemption, freezing the county governments portion of the property tax bill for homeowners. It automatically renews from year-to-year as long as the resident continues to occupy the home as a primary residence. Residents who get a homestead exemption are generally expected to not see a boost in the county government portion of their property taxes. The frozen exemption does not apply to school district nor city property taxes. The exemption has to increase in order to keep the taxable value the same so thats how its offset, said Harris. Well, [when] people often ask that, [they] dont see the frozen exemption included, we always direct them to go back and look at their exemptions. Anything beyond your basic exemptions represents the additional frozen amount thats been included on your tax bill to help offset that increase in valuation. RELATED STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harris noted that citizens might see a slight decrease in the millage rate for School Maintenance and Operations, from 20 mills to 19.8 mills, pending approval by the Board of Education. District IV Commissioner Michael Price and Tax Assessor John Selfe emphasized the importance of accurate property assessments, with Price acknowledging community concerns about property value increases. When it comes to taxes [the community] wants the value low, but when it comes to selling, they want the value high and I know that sometimes there are complaints that the value is increasing, Price said. I want the people to understand that [the Tax Assessors Office] is regulated as well to make sure that [they] are abiding by the expectations and requirements from the Department of Revenue. A second public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 19 at 9 a.m., with the final hearing and millage rate adoption set for the same day at the 6:30 p.m. regular Board of Commissioners meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All meetings are at the Henry County Administration Building, 140 Henry Parkway, McDonough. See more about exemptions from the county website and at the Georgia Department of Revenue. Learn more about property valuation from the Department of Revenue. Watch the entire meeting here. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] HESSMER, La. (KLFY) An anonymous bomb threat at a nursing home in Rayne led to an arrest of a Hessmer man. During the investigation, officials identified Jonathan Jones, 22, of Hessmer, Louisiana, as the suspect allegedly responsible for the call. Jones was arrested and charged for communicating false information of planned arson, police said. According to the Rayne Police Department, they responded to an anonymous bomb threat at The Ellington of Rayne nursing home on July 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the bomb threat was determined to be false, the elderly residents were put at risk when they were evacuated from the climate-controlled facility during the search, police said. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Earlier today officers located Jones at 3001 Villemarette Street in Hessmer and taken him into custody at the location. Police said the cellular phone used to place the call was recovered. Officers said Joness bond is set at $250,000. Jones was booked into the Avoyelles Parish Jail on additional charges related to drugs and a stolen firearm recovered during todays search. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A hold has been placed for the Rayne Police Department, and upon posting bond on the Avoyelles Parish charges, Jones will be transferred to the Acadia Parish Jail for further processing, police said. Jonathan Jones, 22, of Hessmer, Louisiana Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. Honolulu firefighters rescued boaters in distress from Kaneohe Bay early this morning. The 911 call came in at 4 a.m., according to the Honolulu Fire Department, for two boaters on a 10-foot Livingston boat that was starting to take on water and sink. Five units with 13 personnel responded, with the first arriving in 12 minutes at Heeia Kea Boat Harbor. The two boaters were reportedly able to stay afloat with the help of a flotation device until rescue boats reached them, and made face-to-face contact at 4 :45 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The boaters were brought back to shore, with no injuries reported. The disabled vessel was towed back to Heeia Kea Boat Harbor at 5 :27 a.m. and docked. No further details were available. 4 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . High-speed chase ends with suspect driving into Stearns County swamp originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A high-speed police chase of a stolen vehicle came to an end in a Stearns County swamp. The pursuit unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, with Stearns County deputies and Minnesota state troopers called to a driving complaint involving a Jeep Wrangler on Interstate 94 in Lyden Township, with the Jeep having been reported stolen out of Fargo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A St. Joseph Police officer later spotted the vehicle on I-94 and attempted a traffic stop along with a Stearns County deputy. The car did not stop and sped away through multiple towns, weaving through opposite lanes of traffic along the way. Spike sticks were deployed in St. Rosa, and the driver, a 32-year-old Moorhead woman, turned into a property on the 39000 block of County Road 168 and drove into a swamp. Torres and her passenger, a 21-year-old man from Valley City, continued to try and evade police, going further into the water. They eventually surrendered and were taken to Melrose Hospital Emergency Trauma Center with non-life-threatening injuries before being booked in jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both suspects had active arrest warrants at the time of the incident. The St. Joseph Police Department will handle charges related to the pursuit. The woman is being held in the Stearns County Jail on multiple charges, including fleeing police and receiving stolen property. The man has since been released from custody. Edward Kimmel, Flickr This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. Aug. 14BEMIDJI The U.S.Highway 2 culvert replacement project near Bemidji is set to begin on Aug. 18, with motorists required to detour for approximately four days during the construction of each segment. August 18: Highway 2 westbound lanes centerline culvert replacement from Washington Ave SE to Division Street. The detour is Washington Ave SE (Highway 197) to Division Street (Fifth Street). August 25: Highway 2 eastbound lanes culvert replacement from Washington Ave SE to Hubbard County Road 36. The detour is Highway 71 south, Beltrami Line Road, Hubbard County Road 36. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each project will be detoured for approximately four days, a Minnesota Department of Transportation release said. Thru traffic will not be allowed to ensure safety of the workers. The project is expected to be complete late-August, weather permitting. Please join the MnDOT District 2 Facebook group for updates on construction, road conditions and other transportation related topics. For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit 511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store. A hiker died in Tennessee's Savage Gulf State Park after being bitten by a venomous snake, officials said Thursday. Grundy County Emergency Management Agency personnel were dispatched to a trailhead in the park around 12:30 p.m. local time on August 8, agency director Matthew Griffith told CBS News in a statement. The unidentified hiker was about half a mile down the trail when first responders, including fire and rescue workers, EMS members and park rangers, arrived. Griffith said a witness reported the man had picked up a snake, and the reptile then bit him on the hand. The snake is believed to be a timber rattlesnake, Griffith said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hiker was transported to an area hospital, Griffith said, and died from his injuries there. Griffith said the hiker appeared to have died from an allergic reaction, but said the hiker's full cause of death has yet to be released. A timber rattlesnake sits in the sun in the Okefenokee State Park on March 15, 2024 in Folkston, Georgia. / Credit: MEGAN VARNER / Getty Images "The family of the individual will be in our thoughts and prayers," Griffith said. "As always it's strongly recommended to have some kind of first aid supplies while enjoying outdoor recreational activities and be mindful of wildlife and the dangers that some wildlife may pose. If you encounter a snake simply remain calm and do not attempt to handle it. If bitten seek immediate medical attention." Timber rattlesnakes are the largest and most dangerous of the four species of venomous snakes in Tennessee, according to the state's Wildlife Resources Agency. Timber rattlesnakes average between 3 and 5 feet long, and have flat heads that are wider than their necks, the agency said. The snakes are gray, yellow or green-white with dark bands and a rust-colored stripe in the middle of their back. The snakes can be found across the state and tend to prefer mature, heavily wooded forests with rocky hillsides and can often be spotted near fallen logs or sunning on rocks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Timber rattlesnakes tend to prey on small rodents, the agency said. The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute said the species is "more docile than other members of its family" and is likely to go motionless if encountered in the wild. Bites from timber rattlesnakes are rare, the zoo said. In most cases, rattlesnake bites are not fatal, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Less than 1 in 600 bites result in death, the agency said. Savage Gulf State Park contains about 60 miles of hiking trails, according to Tennessee State Parks. The park contains scenic wilderness areas, waterfalls and deep gulfs. It is located about 95 miles from Nashville. Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WKRN) Investigators are trying to unravel an unusual vandalism case. Someone damaged at least nine grave sites at a family cemetery belonging to a Revolutionary War captain. He was one of the founders of Murfreesboro. Officials with the Capt. William Lytle family cemetery said the repairs could cost nearly $50,000. Have breaking news come to you: Subscribe to News 2 email alerts It was like a gut punch, Tennessee Sons of the American Revolution Stones River Chapter President Robert Bolyard said. It was very sad, especially with all this patriotic information on the monuments behind me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tennessee Sons of the American Revolution Stones River Chapter members found the damage. We were here to make plans to restore and preserve and maintain this cemetery, Jim Sandman, chapter second vice president and registrar, said. We discovered the vandalism last Friday. Police are investigating and havent released a motive. Members wonder if all this damage was caused by more than one person. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Capt. Lytle still has relatives in Rutherford County. Its very senseless, Sandman said. We arent sure why or who did this. We are going to make it better. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members said theyre hoping cameras from a neighboring business captured the crime. The group hopes to have the graves repaired by next Fourth of July, which is Americas 250th birthday. There is a GoFundMe set up to help with their cause. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. KANSAS CITY, Mo. In February 2024, the historic Warwick Theatre in Midtown was damaged in a devastating fire. That same month, thieves broke into the building multiple times. Despite all the setbacks, the Warwick has been repaired and its doors are open again. New community space in Downtown Lees Summit set to open There was $1.6 million worth of damage to this building, and then there was about $1,000,000 of insurance money to try to fix it, which makes it an uphill battle, and so you start at the bottom of the hill and go, okay, is that even possible? said Karen Paisley the producing artistic director for the Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A year and a half later, the Warwick Theatre has proven that it is possible. There were hard days, very hard days, but there was never a day when it would be worth it to give up because there are too many people believing in you. And if people believe in you and are counting on you, you cant quit. You have to show up. And thats what we did, Paisley explained. The back of the building had extensive damage from the fire on February 7, 2024. Not only did we have a fire and lose a great deal of what we use to make art, but we were robbed eight times, and so we also lost the entire sound system and lots of tools and props and things that are important to what we do, Paisley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She says they were able to preserve many unique and antique items in the theatre with the help of volunteers. Paisley and other staffers are thrilled to welcome audiences back to the Warwick. We are rejoicing, thats where we are after all of the ugly and all of the crispy and dark and really, really kind of very hard times. Its really amazing to be sitting here in a theatre where people are coming to see a show, Paisley said. After the fire, support poured in from the KC community and beyond. A group of people joined me and other staff here every day to do everything that we could do. So anything that we could do was the low-hanging fruit. We did it. So demo, things that could be taken out of here, determining what could be saved, Paisley explained. The single most important thing is to say thank you to everybody who helped and people who sent gifts. People sent gifts from all over the country and from our hometown here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Warwick first opened in 1914 and survived another fire in 1927. Preserving the historic building was a priority. The upcoming season kicks off in just over a month with the play Mothers Daughter. There are four more after that, including Shawshank Redemption, which you dont want to miss telling people about because we did the North American premiere of the play Shawshank Redemption, blessed by Stephen King, and were going to bring it back, and itll be on stage this spring, Paisley said. Download WDAF+ for Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV The theatres new season starts Sept. 17, and tickets are on sale here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padgett Productions is performing Evil Dead the Musical at the Warwick Theatre for the next two weekends. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) A Holmes County Commissioner turned himself in to the Walton County Jail early Thursday morning. According to the Walton County Sheriffs Office, Brandon Newsom was booked shortly after 1 a.m. on charges of Unauthorized Person Act As Bail Bond Agent. Holmes County commissioner facing two felony charges Newsom was released not long after, around 9:30 a.m., on a $2,500 bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge stems from a warrant from the Florida Department of Financial Services. Newsom was also charged on June 24 with two felonies that include unlawfully furnishing materials used in bail bond services. Former Holmes County Commissioner Brandon Newsom faces another suspension He was suspended as County Commissioner because of his private bail bond business. However, he is now facing a suspension from the Florida Department of Financial 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 mypanhandle.com. A homicide investigation is underway after a woman who authorities believe was homeless was found dead in a field in Anaheim on Tuesday. Officials with the Anaheim Police Department said someone called in around 3 a.m. on Aug. 12, requesting a welfare check on an unconscious and bleeding woman in the 2100 block of West Crescent Avenue. Police and Anaheim Fire and Rescue personnel arrived at the area and found the woman, identified as 43-year-old Jessica Elaine Crummel of Anaheim, inside a tent that was set up in a large unoccupied field north of Crescent Avenue. Jessica Elaine Crummel, 43, of Anaheim is seen in this undated photo after she was found dead in a field in August 2025. (Anaheim PD) A Google Maps search from August 2025 shows the area north of the 2100 block of West Crescent Avenue. A Google Maps search from August 2025 shows the 2100 block of West Crescent Avenue. A Google Maps view of the area described by authorities shows a large flood drainage facility located on a field-like topography near the 5 Freeway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details are limited, but Anaheim PD said the initial investigation determined Crummels death to be a homicide. Crummel was possibly living out of a tent at the time of her death, the department stated. Two teenage girls ejected from DUI crash, Victorville man arrested Detectives are asking anyone who may have information regarding this case to contact Anaheim PD at 714-321-3669 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 saying "Be Bear Aware" can be seen on trail or park signs, but for one Pennsylvania woman, it was her dog who was cued in on the black bear tromping around her backyard. What's happening? According to ABC 27, a black bear was spotted in the yard of a Dauphin County woman, who shared a clip to prove it. Black bears are common in Pennsylvania and are the most abundant bear species in North America. While they are wild animals and predators, they are not usually a huge risk to humans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North American Bear Center explains that black bears can be rather timid, and dogs can usually scare them off. However, in some instances, especially when a mother and baby cubs are involved, they can pose a threat to your pooch. Why is this black bear sighting concerning? Bear and other wild animal sightings in highly populated areas often signal an issue in the animal's environment. As building developments and the destruction of natural areas can result in habitat destruction and food shortage, animals like this Pennsylvanian black bear may end up where they don't belong. What can be done about these kinds of sightings? There are simple steps to follow to keep you and your pets safe from black bears. Most importantly, to prevent bears from entering your area, you can secure your food, or pet food, and ensure no scraps are left outside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bears that rely on humans for food can become unable to survive on their own. Plus, if a bear continues showing up in a residential area and starts causing harm, it may result in officials having to detain or even euthanize the animal. With dogs, the situation can be a little more complicated. If your dog tries to attack or corner the black bear, they may fight back, leaving your pup in harm's way. ABC 27 reported that Bear Wise said dogs were "involved in more than half of all reported incidents involving people and black bears between 2010 and 2015" To keep your dog safe from black bears, an easy first step is to keep it on a leash. Bear Vault reported that of black bear attacks involving a dog, 79% were off-leash. Not only does taking simple precautions for bear safety help keep you and your animal safe, but it can also save the bear's life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To prevent the destruction of bear habitats and help keep them away from your home, you can also support conservation efforts aimed at protecting bears. 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. Martha Nolan was an Irish expat and New York fashion designer until she turned up dead on a 54-foot yacht at a luxe marina on Long Island's East End. Ten days later, her cause of death remains unknown leaving friends, family and followers to ponder what exactly happened to her on Aug. 5. According to Suffolk County police, forensic pathologists completed Nolan's autopsy a day later. They found no signs of violence, but her final cause of death is pending additional investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Family Of Irish Bikini Designer Found Dead On Yacht Met With Homicide Detectives: Lawyer Police are likely waiting for the toxicology results, which typically will take longer than just a week or two. As a general rule, the county medical examiner doesn't provide a timeline for results, but they are expected to be shared with police when they come back. Her family is also reportedly seeking a second autopsy, according to the Irish Independent, although relatives and their lawyer did not immediately respond when asked about the report by Fox News Digital. A second exam is expected to be performed in the U.S. before her remains are returned to Ireland for a funeral. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For their part, police have been largely silent as homicide detectives do their work. "It makes me nuts when police say no signs of foul play too early in the investigation," said Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant and professor of criminal justice at Penn State Lehigh Valley. "The standard line should be, We treat every death as if its a homicide until we conclude our scene investigation, confer with the ME (medical examiner), and get back all necessary reports. What police discovered at the scene and what the toxicology reports tell us, will allow the ME to make a certification." Montauk Yacht Death: Timeline Reveals Bikini Moguls Final Days In Hamptons Before Mysterious Demise Town of East Hampton police arrived at the Montauk Yacht Club around midnight on Aug. 5 in response to a report of an unconscious woman on a 54-foot Sea Ray docked there. When officers arrived, good Samaritans were attempting CPR, according to authorities. But first responders pronounced Nolan dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary scene investigation was inconclusive, police said. Suffolk County homicide detectives are now leading the investigation, and they have met with her family, according to their high-profile New York lawyer, Arthur Aidala. Aidala is disputing some reports that suggest a drug overdose is expected in Nolan's death, and he urged patience as the family awaits more information and investigators continue to probe the incident. Montauk Yacht Death: Timeline Reveals Bikini Moguls Final Days In Hamptons Before Mysterious Demise While the homicide squad is working the case, Giacalone said it looks like they may be digging into someone other than the yacht owner. The yachtsman reportedly woke up people on a neighboring boat to call 911, according to the New York Post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Running from boat to boat and throwing things at boats to wake people up is unusual if this is a homicide," Giacalone told Fox News Digital. "He owns two boats and no cellphone? Unlikely. Hes 30-plus years older, and it sounds like panic. I hope they did more than a cursory scene investigation, however, hope is not a plan for death investigations." Aidala, the family's lawyer, also revealed Wednesday that police are conducting a comprehensive "technological analysis" as part of a "deep, deep" probe into the circumstances surrounding Nolan's death. Irish Bikini Designer Found Dead On Yacht Months After Divorce And Prior Legal Dispute "The text messages may play a part in this, however, shes going through a divorce, in some 60-year-old guys yacht, she may not have told anyone exactly where and what she was doing," Giacalone told Fox News Digital. "Since 'sources' have said an overdose, maybe that will lead to the dealer, who can be prosecuted. One thing DA Tierney has done is prosecuted a number of dealers that have caused a death. Thats why publicly stating a drug overdose is not helpful to the future investigation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nolan was the founder of East x East, a boutique fashion company focused on beachwear and sunglasses. It also offered a Montauk-themed hoodie, emblazoned with the slogan, "I only love you in Montauk." The yacht owner was reportedly an investor in Nolan's business. At the time of her death, she was also going through a divorce from her husband, Sam Ryan. Fox News' Michael Dorgan contributed to this report. Original article source: Homicide investigator warns against rushing bikini designer's yacht death probe as lawyer reveals new details This report includes discussion of sexual assault and/or rape. If you or someone you know needs help, call the Rape & Sexual Assault Crisis Line 1-888-421-1100. SOUTH SALT LAKE, Utah (ABC4) A Honduran man is facing felony charges after allegedly kidnapping and sexually assaulting a 17-year-old. Another man participated in the assault, but left the state before law enforcement located him. Carlos Daniel Espinoza Sanchez, 26, has been charged with one count of aggravated kidnapping and four counts of aggravated sexual assault, all first-degree felonies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on July 27, 2025, a gas station employee contacted the South Salt Lake Police Department to report that a 17-year-old had been sexually assaulted. The teen told officers that she was leaving a party and approached a group of people outside when she discovered that her phone was dead. Murray woman charged for creating, distributing CSAM online, documents say Two members of the group, Espinoza Sanchez and another man who has not been arrested yet, offered to drive the teenage victim to a gas station so she could buy a phone charger. The victim got into the backseat of the car. Espinoza Sanchez got into the drivers seat, and the other man sat next to her in the back. The victim noticed that Espinoza Sanchez took the vehicle onto the highway and questioned the two about whether they were going to the gas station. They replied that they were taking her to the house. The man in the backseat with her grabbed her, made her lie down, and began touching her, documents say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Espinoza Sanchez also allegedly began to reach back to touch the victim while he was driving, and she reported to police that she attempted to push the two men away and repeatedly told them no. The victim said she was begging them to go to the gas station and asking them to pull over. The two men continued to sexually assault the teenager, and the victim described that Espinoza Sanchez was touching her inappropriately while the other man tried to rape her. Espinoza Sanchez pulled over at a gas station, and the victim said that they parked way in the back. While at the gas station, the victim was able to escape while the man in the backseat grabbed her and tried to pull her back in. She was able to push him off of her and run to the gas station, partially dressed and missing a sandal, according to documents. A gas station employee stopped the man from chasing her, and another employee called the police. Blanding man arrested for unlawful sexual contact with 16-year-old while in secret relationship Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was transported to the hospital, and doctors observed that she had bruises on her arms. The 17-year-old reported what happened during the sexual assault to medical staff, and mentioned that Espinoza Sanchez had participated. The South Salt Lake Police Department reviewed surveillance footage and saw the victim walking into the gas station, pursued by a man. They also saw the vehicle that the two men had used to kidnap the 17-year-old girl. Using that information, they were able to track the license plate number of the vehicle. On Aug. 4, officers took Espinoza Sanchez into custody, and he allegedly admitted to being at the party with the other man and the victim. Espinoza Sanchez stated that they were driving her to the gas station, and if the other man had touched her, he didnt know because he was driving. He went on to claim that she voluntarily got in the car so it couldnt be rape. Espinoza Sanchez was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail, where he is currently being held without bail. According to documents, he reported that the other man had moved out of the state. Law enforcement intends to file charges against the other man when he is identified. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. DUBOIS COUNTY, Ind. (WEHT) For years, we have heard from countless residents and property owners who strongly oppose the Mid-States Corridor. But, just like any highway, there is the other side of the road, and now project supporters are speaking up. I think if we dont do it, thats the opportunity cost, says Colten Pipenger. Pipenger is the Executive Director for Dubois Strong, as well as a member of Hoosiers for the Corridor, a Dubois County group who wants to advocate for the highly-debated project. I think the biggest misconception is that they say there is not a need for the road, explains Pipenger, and I think anybody driving from the south side of Huntingburg to the north side of Jasper would very much argue that. Pipenger and other supporters say along with economic potential, the highway would reduce congestion in places like Huntingburg and Jasper. But the opposition believes it will deter business from Dubois County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Property owner and Mid-States survey team come face-to-face Its called a bypass, you know, on purpose, says Dubois County property owner Maggie Marystone. It going to bypass the town and, you know, we dont want trucks necessarily like going through downtown, but there are other solutions to that. Marystone says she initially thought the highway was a good idea until purchasing a new home at the end of 2024. We bought a house last December, says Marystone, and a month or two after that, we found out that we are in the path. Marystone says she doubts the economic potential, citing a lack of development on the highway through much of Spencer County. Weve looked at other towns that have had bypasses and, you know, theyve suffered, says Marystone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pipenger says those arguments from those against echo those of the new organization. The opposition has even used as examples are our examples as well, says Pipenger. I hear all the time, Kokomo, and Dale, Indiana and Martinsville. Kokomo has a huge Chrysler plant, and the mayor of Kokomo has written a letter saying their bypasses have supported them greatly. Pipenger adds that officials with the city of Martinsville are also seeing growth. Theyre seeing new housing developments along I-69. Dale, Indiana, even, when you start looking at big economic indicators of poverty statuses declining, unemployment rate is declining. Pipenger says he understands the opposition, but believes now is the time to move the project forward. Other communities have had success, and Dubois County is having some success now, says Pipenger. But its guaranteed that if we do nothing, then nothing will happen. More from Cody Bailey Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW) Horry County officials hosted a hurricane and emergency preparedness event on Thursday as hurricane season nears its climatological peak. With peak hurricane season quickly approaching, Horry County Emergency Management and several other public safety offices attended the event to offer guidance and tips to the community on how to prepare. Know your hazards and know your zone, Horry County Emergency Management official Thomas Bell said. Be aware of what is around your home. If you are in an evacuation zone and those are ordered, youre the folks who we are expecting or hoping will leave should that issue come down to the governors office, because we want people to be safe from that storm surge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the event, community members could approach various tables and ask questions about other emergencies and hurricane preparedness. Officials showed residents how to find what evacuation zone their home is in on their website and offered tips on what to include in their emergency and hurricane evacuation kits. Bags should include at least a weeks worth of non-perishable food and water, items like batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, extra clothes, toiletries, a radio, cash, most importantly identification any insurance you may need, and enough medication to last an extended period of time. The Horry County Animal Care Center also reminded folks that their pets, just like members of their family, need emergency bags as well. Knowing where youre going to evacuate to, ensuring that your pet can go with you, thats very important. We also encourage folks to ensure that they are including pet supplies in their emergency kit, their hurricane evacuation kit. Making sure that you have things like pet food, public information officer Adrianna Seals said. You have pictures of you and your pet. You have their microchip information; if theyre microchipped, you have proof of their rabies vaccination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether the emergency is hurricane-related or not, Horry County 911 also reminded people that calling 911 is always an option, but texting is now an option as well. You would simply text like you were texting your friends, 911 in the contact list. Simply in the description, the nature of your emergency, the location of your emergency, its as simple as that, marketing and content coordinator Nick Doria said. * * * 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. A former executive at University Hospital in Newark, the states only public acute-care facility, filed a discrimination lawsuit on Wednesday, claiming she was illegally forced out out the door three years ago. Dr. Chris Pernell, 49, who served as the hospitals diversity and inclusion officer before abruptly leaving in September 2022, charged that she was subjected to sexist and racial discrimination and harassment in what she said was a hostile work environment, as well as the target of a frivolous sham investigation after expressing interest in the hospitals top job. Her lawsuit also named the State Ethics Commission as a defendant. The reasons for including the state agency were redacted from the court filing without explanation. But the commission would have been responsible for investigating her complaints. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hospital said it could not comment on ongoing litigation. The ethics commission said only it cannot confirm or deny the existence of any investigation, and as a result, we decline to comment at this time. Pernell, who is Black, had served as chief integration and health equity officer of University Hospital, a 519-bed facility in Newarks Central Ward and the largest provider of care in the state for uninsured patients. At the time, hospital officials issued a brief statement saying only that she was stepping down to pursue new opportunities. But behind the scenes, Pernell later told NJ Advance Media that those at the top had sought to hamper diversity efforts and scrutinized her more than other senior staff. She said they also retaliated against her for expressing interest in the open CEO position after Shereef Elnahal left to become under secretary for health at the Veterans Health Administration during the Biden administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, she came under fire after appearing on CNN during the COVID pandemic, when she called President Trump a leader who had failed to lead and has asked us to perform political theater instead of sticking to the facts and sticking to the truth. Those comments angered some colleagues who wrote a letter to Gov. Phil Murphy and hospital leaders either her removal from her position or tamp down on her behavior. Pernell, in an interview shortly after she left, said the hostility against her began shortly after she arrived while implementing diversity and inclusion initiatives. I felt like I had to validate the role I was in, she said. In her lawsuit, filed in state Superior Court in Essex County, Pernell recounted multiple allegations by Black employees regarding racist and discriminatory behavior in hiring and firing decisions and workplace incidents, and said she was specifically asked to quell the concerns of the Black workers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She noted she was once asked to get involved in the hospitals response after someone wrote WLM for White Lives Matter in a common workspace area. When the hospital later learned the identity of the employee who had written the graffiti, it decided not to terminate the individual, but rather to reassign him, over Pernells objections. She also said she was consistently undermined by human resources on promoting and hiring locally, with insinuations that people from Newark were not the best candidates. Pernell said she was also told by the University Hospital leadership that her media appearances angered some members of the board of directors, which the lawsuit said later led to an internal investigation but no findings of any wrongdoing. Who would succeed Elnahal as the hospitals chief executive officer, though, seemed a central issue in the controversy involving Pernell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her lawsuit, she said after NJ.com published an article reporting that more than 100 leaders from a variety of sectors had written an open letter to the governor and the hospital board of directors calling for them to name Pernell as the hospitals next CEO, she informed the hospital of her intent to pursue the open position. She was told, however, that the governors office did not support her candidacy and that they were not going to be strong-armed into allowing the hospital to offer her the position. The lawsuit said she was subsequently notified that she was the target of an investigation in connection with the vacant top job. Instructed not to discuss or disclose the existence of the investigation, Pernell in her lawsuit said she believed the inquiry was initiated to ruin her credibility, devalue her within the hospital, and to intimidate and coerce her to no longer pursue and formally apply for the CEO position. Not long afterward, discussions began over a separation agreement to negotiate a graceful exit from the hospital and a severance package. Pernell seeks reinstatement, back pay and benefits, compensatory damages, legal fees and requiring the hospital to take appropriate corrective action to stop and prevent retaliation at the workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, she said when she took on her role at University Hospital, I always knew I would need to fight to protect the health and well-being of my community. I trusted that the leadership and team members would work with me and partner with the community to build a better, safer, higher-quality, and culturally fluent hospital. I didnt expect to have to fight for my own safety and well-being or for my credentials and expertise to be respected. She now serves as director for the Center for Health Equity at the NAACP. Pernells attorney, Christopher J. Eibeler of Smith Eibeler, said she hopes her lawsuit will shed some much needed light to the unlawful ways the hospitals uses confidentiality to hide issues of workplace discrimination. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TedShermanSL. Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.), ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, said Wednesday that expectations are low for President Trumps meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. I think President Trump has really sort of lowballed expectations in recent days. His conversations with [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky and with Europe sort of show that, Smith said during an appearance on NewsNations The Hill. I dont think its particularly bad that they have the conversation. Whats bad, to date, is that President Trump has not shown, I think, the unity behind Ukraine to really put pressure on Putin, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats have shared growing concerns about Trumps ability to hold Putin accountable for invading Ukraine in 2022. The president backed out of secondary sanctions on the Kremlin expected to be issued last week and said Ukraine will likely need to engage in a land swap to end the war. Zelensky firmly stated Tuesday that he would not turn over the Donbas region, currently occupied by Russia, in exchange for peace. The Ukrainian leader also urged Trump and Putin to add security guarantees to any proposed agreement to ensure the war in Eastern Europe would be settled after over a decade of conflict. Smith shared similar sentiments and urged Trump to notify Putin that hes got to stay within set boundaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Success looks like Putin walking away from this going, whatever the Trump administration was in January, February and March and beyond, that seemed to be giving me a green light in Ukraine, thats gone. I have to recalculate, Smith said. Success looks like standing up strong against Putins invasion of Ukraine. And thats what needs to happen at this summit, he added. Putin and Trump will meet in Anchorage on Friday, in the absence of Zelensky. Officials are hopeful the talks will lead to a trilateral discussion that will swiftly accelerate toward a permanent ceasefire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. AUSTIN (Nexstar) The quorum break may be over this weekend, just under two weeks after it began. House Democrats have announced that they will return under the conditions that the first special session adjourns, and that California introduces new congressional maps of its own. The first special session is expected to adjourn on Friday, after House Speaker Dustin Burrows said he would sine die, or end, the session if a quorum was not reached by then. California Gov. Gavin Newsom held a media conference on Thursday to announce Californias Election Rigging Response Act, expected to be a ballot measure for voters to approve new congressional maps for the state in November. Those maps could lead to pickups for Democrats, intended to counter the possible five seat gain for Republicans if the Texas Legislature can successfully pass new congressional maps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats say their return comes as they have successfully achieved their goal of raising national awareness about the Texas Republican plan to redraw maps. Texas House Democrats broke quorum and successfully mobilized the nation against Trumps assault on minority voting rights, said House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston. Texas seems to have unleashed a national redistricting war, with many states, both red and blue, now looking to redraw maps mid-decade to their partys advantage. So far, Texas and California seem to be committed to attempting redraws, and Ohio is legally required to. The Democrats return to Texas means Texas Republicans will almost certainly have the votes to pass the maps. What happens next will now be up to voters in California. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A poll conducted from July 28 through Aug. 12 found that California voters support the states independent redistricting commission, a nonpartisan body that draws the congressional maps. Nearly two-thirds of California voters said they support keeping the commission, including a majority of Republicans and Democrats. But early indications say Californias proposal would not do away with the commission; it would simply give the legislature the authority to redraw congressional maps one time mid-decade, which is currently not allowed. If voters do approve the proposal, the two states with the most members of Congress will have redrawn maps mid-decade for a partisan advantage, the first time in recent history that has happened. Gavin Newsoms threats are hollow, Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris said. California has one of the most gerrymandered maps in America only 9 of 52 congressional seats are Republican, even though nearly 40% of California voters chose President Trump. This is nothing more than political posturing for his 2028 pipe dream. Lets keep going to infinity: A difficult choice to return Wu said lots of members were enthused by the idea of staying outside of the state for as long as it took to kill the Texas redistricting proposal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have members who are like, lets keep going to infinity, Wu said. Everyones really, really pumped up about whats going on right now. Because for the first time, I think Democrats are going to get a win, our first win in a long time. However, Wu acknowledged the human toll of leaving your entire life behind with no end in sight. We came out of a bruising regular session and people are tired. People are exhausted, Wu said. Staff has been running, doing like 16-18 hour days for two to three months now. You know, were human beings, we have a limit. Im having a hard time as well when we talk about yknow, do you come back? State Rep. Josey Garcia, D-San Antonio said. While Garcia, a combat veteran, is used to spending time away from home, she acknowledges the difficulty of keeping 51 members away from home for so long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lot of us have families. I have eight children. My husband and I are both disabled veterans. We have a very modest income. However, Im still blessed, because I have a flexible income, meaning that that that modest income will always be there, Garcia said. I have the flexibility to say, Okay, Im going to stay out for another 30 days, right? But thats not true for all of our colleagues, and if we dont have the 51-plus to be able to do that, then its not even worth 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 KXAN Austin. BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) An explosion that destroyed a home in Hamburg in May and left one person dead has been ruled accidental, police confirmed. Police received multiple calls about an explosion on West Lane around 8:50 p.m. on the night of May 12. Joene Pease, 78, was pronounced dead at the scene and 78-year-old John Pease was pulled from the rubble and taken to ECMC in critical condition. The whole house shook like we got struck by lightning, said George Fischer, a neighbor. Thats what it felt like. The next-door neighbor, it blew out all of his windows in the front of his house, his front door, it blew part of the garage door out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An extensive review led to the conclusion that the explosion was accidental and contributing factors included a gas leak combined with an electric dryer, Hamburg police said Thursday. A dog survived the explosion. A firefighter and a police officer suffered minor injuries. Latest Local News Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo. FAIRLEA, WV (WVNS) To be able to spend a lifetime at the State Fair of West Virginia may sound like a dream to some but for one man, its reality. Since the age of 4, Houston has been coming to the State Fair grounds only missing 1 year due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. A rich history of 76 years involved with the horse barns years after year. His father started bringing Houston to the fairgrounds in Greenbrier County where he helped show off his fathers horses. Since then hes been coming back with nearly 30 years of his own as a horse exhibitor featuring halfinger horses. My father was aworked as a professional horse trader and he had a stable here and Ive been there when I was three and four years old. So I not only came to fair but I play down here at the fairgrounds even when the fair wasnt going on. And so since his job entailed being at the fair, I was part of it ever since I was a little child. Houston Arbuckle State Fair Lifetime Achievement Winner On display Tuesday, Houston had a few horses with him that gave insight to what 76 years of state fairs actually means. One of the horses with Houston is the offspring of another horse Houston had previously showcased 26 years prior. Generations of horses touching the lives of generations of fair visitors, all thanks to Houston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For his long history at the fair and his involvement with the horse barns, Houston was presented with a special lifetime award from the State Fair of West Virginia on Monday. An award he says he received for being old but in reality it was for his impact on the horse community at the fair. Not only for the generations of horses hes shown but teaching and training countless other owners in a nearly 8 decades run. While his humble response to such an award only speaks to the gentle heart so many have had the pleasure of knowing he has no plans to stop following traditions for many years to come. Houston and his horses plan to compete in shows scheduled all week. Youll find Houston near the back of the draft horse barn telling stories of years past and watching another generation of exhibitors excitedly getting ready for a lifetime of state fair memories of their own. When asked what his favorite year of the fair was Houston replied with a big grin, This year, of course. When you are having fun, thats the best time to have. We here at 59News hope Houston has many more years with the State Fair community and thank you for being responsible for so many state fair memories. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) Police with the Hampton Police Division had been asking for the publics assistance in locating two suspects accused of stealing a 2-year-old French Bulldog, Macho, at gunpoint. But as of Thursday evening, he has been found and reunited with his owner. According to officials, on Wednesday around 5:30 p.m., police were notified of a robbery that occurred in the 2500 block of North Campus Parkway. An initial investigation revealed that a vehicle with three men inside stopped by the victim, who was walking his 2-year-old French Bulldog at the time. One of the suspects then exited the vehicle, displayed his firearm and then took the dog, police said. Shortly thereafter someone jumped out of the backseat of the vehicle in all black had a ski mask on and they walked up toward me brandishing a firearm out of the side of their sweater, Machos Owner Calvin Cooper said Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They reached for the leash of my dog, I didnt wanna give up my dog right away and I grabbed the leash and went to turn around and thats when they completely pulled the firearm and pointed it toward my chest. The owner of the dog, Calvin Cooper says thankfully his dog Macho, was returned to him Thursday evening, after a woman found him wandering on her porch. That woman was Ms. Breana Holt, a Good Samaritan. She located Macho and promptly brought him to Fire Station 9. Upon his arrival, detectives were immediately notified, and arrangements were made to return him to his rightful owner. Mr. Cooper has this message to everyone: remain vigilant Be aware of your surroundings, know whats going on, if you can go out with somebody particularly if its late, go out with somebody so youre not by yourself, just be vigilant dont take anything for granted because it can happen in a moment in the blink of an eye and sometimes its nothing you can do about that, but as much as you can be prepared try to stay prepared. Police said the suspects fled the scene in the vehicle after taking the dog. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after the armed robbery, police were able to locate the suspect vehicle in Newport News. Police then arrested 21-year-old Jalyle Lee in connection with the incident and charged him with robbery, use of a firearm in commission of a felony and larceny of a dog. The two other suspects, have yet to be found, according to police. Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. You don't need a UN report to tell people what happened. If you're in court, you have the evidence," Anne Herzberg, a human rights lawyer. While the UN blacklisting of Hamas in its annual report on conflict-related sexual violence on Thursday may have symbolic or declarative gains, the concrete moving-of-the-needle is much murkier, Anne Herzberg, a human rights lawyer and the legal advisor to NGO Monitor, told The Jerusalem Post in an interview on Thursday. You don't need a UN report to tell people what happened. If you're in court, you have the evidence - I don't need it filtered through a UN official to know that someone has been the victim of egregious international crimes, said Herzberg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A New York Times report this week attempted to explain why there have not been any indictments by the prosecution against terrorists who perpetrated sex crimes that day. Per the NYT, hundreds of Palestinians were arrested on October 7, and about 200 are in detention today. Since then, security forces have detained around 2,700 Palestinians from Gaza, the report notes. Most of the cases are shrouded in secrecy, with little access or updates as to the status of indictments. 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) Issue with evidence collection method Part of the problem was the evidence collection method from right after the attacks, which was chaotic and unsystematic. Attorney Moran Gaz, a senior former prosecutor who managed some of the cases, along with Yisrael Beytenu MK Yulia Malinovsky, told Ynet, The standard legal system would not have been the right framework to deal with such a massive volume of evidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The CRSV blacklist lists state security forces, non-state armed groups, and extremist organizations that are credibly suspected of committing patterns of rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, or other forms of sexual violence in armed conflict. The mandate began around 2010. The goal is to name parties and press them into compliance, update sanctions committees, and be used in general to guide peace negotiations. Examples include Boko Haram, ISIS, and Al-Shabaab. What the blacklist means, Herzberg explained, is that the groups will be more closely monitored by the UN. The October 7 massacre attack took place nearly two years ago; per Herzberg, Hamas shouldve been on the list much sooner than now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As well, now there will be extreme pressure placed on the Secretary-General to add the IDF to the list for next year so, the efforts may have backfired, she explained. What was accomplished by getting Hamas on that list? Herzberg explained that she understands why, to some, it may be better than nothing, but noted that such reports are often weaponized against Israel - that it is a double-edged sword belonging to an organization that doesnt always deserve the legitimacy it gets. "I just think the value is minimal. I don't think the people behind this effort are, I certainly don't think they have any bad intentions, I just think they're naive and don't really understand the system." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is the danger. These UN bodies don't deserve any legitimacy or credibility Why are we giving them credit that they don't deserve on these issues, she asked. Additionally, now, when we do have extensive and legitimate criticisms against these bodies, the counter-argument will be, Well, they put Hamas on the list, so they can't possibly be biased. Hamas is already a sanctioned entity by the EU, the US, and many countries, and the sentiment is bolstered by a UN resolution from 2001 against terrorist financing. There are already a host of mechanisms, there can be lawsuits, and there is the military campaign against Hamas in Gaza, she said. With all these simultaneous efforts, I don't really see what this report is doing to move the needle There may be individual victims who will feel justified by it, but it's not moving the needle for anything concrete; it's not getting them money, It's not getting perpetrators put in jail. SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux says the highly anticipated Humor and Harmony event is still on track, just not for this year. Instead, the comedy and music showcase is expected to return in early spring of 2026, with the possibility of moving to Independence Stadium for a larger, more impactful weekend. The event is spearheaded by Curtis 50 Cent Jackson and his team, with the city working closely to ensure it meets community expectations. Itll be a little bigger and a little different from last time, Arceneaux said, adding that early planning is underway to bring a greater experience to Shreveport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor also touched on several other community updates: School Zone Safety: With Caddo Parish students back in class, Arceneaux urged drivers to slow down, obey school zone speed limits, and avoid distractions, especially cell phone use. A.C. Steere Park Renovations: A ribbon-cutting was held Thursday morning for new all-inclusive playground surfacing, making the park more accessible for children of all abilities. Clean Sweep Campaign: Now in its seventh week, the citywide cleanup has removed more than 3 million pounds of trash and nearly 3,000 illegally dumped tires. The next cleanup will take place in the Pines Road area, starting at Bill Cockrell Park. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Police Substations: Arceneaux said the recently opened substations are improving police visibility, encouraging neighborhood investment, and changing community behavior. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has accused Ukraine of attacking an "important distribution station" of the Druzhba oil pipeline in Russia's Bryansk Oblast. Source: European Pravda, citing Szijjarto on Facebook Details: On Wednesday 13 August, Szijjarto claimed that "Ukraine launched a drone attack on an important distribution station of the Druzhba oil pipeline in Russia's Bryansk Oblast overnight". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Hungary is currently Ukraine's biggest electricity supplier, and without us, Ukraine's energy security would become fairly unstable. In this regard, Ukraine's latest strike on the Druzhba oil pipeline, which supplies Hungary with crude oil and plays a key role in our country's energy security, is particularly outrageous," he wrote. Szijjarto urged Ukraine "not to jeopardise Hungary's energy security and to stop attacking Hungary's energy supply routes". Background: The European Commission put forward a plan to impose a legally binding ban on the import of Russian gas and liquefied natural gas to the European Union before the end of 2027. The proposal stated that the plan could not be adopted if either Budapest or Bratislava blocked it. In July, Szijjarto reported progress on the new oil pipeline project between Hungary and Serbia, which had been announced earlier that spring, and again criticised the EU for abandoning Russian energy resources. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! First lady Melania Trump is threatening legal action against Hunter Biden for defamatory remarks. However, former President Joe Bidens son isnt backing down. Trumps lawyer, Alejandro Brito, issued a letter to Biden demanding a full retraction of an interview he did with Andrew Callaghan that was posted to YouTube on Aug. 5. The former first son had repeated a claim from a biographer that Donald Trump had met his current wife through his connections with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 1998. More from StyleCaster Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory statements are extremely salacious and have been widely disseminated throughout various digital mediums, Brito wrote in the letter, per Fox News Digital. 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. Related: Meet Joe Bidens 4 Children Trump and her legal team had given Biden and Callaghan until Aug. 7 to comply and take down the video, as well as an apology. If they dont, they would face a lawsuit costing $1B. However, in a video titled Hunter Biden Apologizes that was dropped on Aug. 14, Callaghan and Biden had a clear response to whether they would take down the video. Fk that. Thats not going to happen, Biden said. Biden doubled down saying that the claim stemmed from the presidents biographer. What I said was what I have heard and seen, reported and written, primarily from Michael Wolff, but also dating back all the way to 2019 when the New York Times, I think reported that sources said that Jeffrey Epstein claimed to be the person to introduce Donald Trump to Melania at that time, he said in the video. From left, American real estate developer Donald Trump and his girlfriend (and future wife), former model Melania Knauss, financier (and future convicted sex offender) Jeffrey Epstein, and British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell pose together at the Mar-a-Lago club, Palm Beach, Florida, February 12, 2000. Biden continued, I have this to say to them: If they want to sit down for a deposition and clarify the nature of the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein if the president and the first lady want to do that and all the known associates around them at the time, whatever time that they met, Im more than happy to provide them the platform to be able to do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fact of the matter is that, you know, I dont think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a design distraction, because its not about who introduced whom to whom. I dont know how that in any way rises to the level of defamation to begin with, Biden added. Brito said in a statement to People, First Lady Melania Trumps 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. The first lady recounted her first meeting with her current husband at the Kit Kat Klub in New York City in September 1998 during New York Fashion Week. From the moment our conversation began, I was captivated by his charm and easygoing nature, she wrote in her memoir. She declined to give him her phone number because he was with a date. However, he gave her his phone number. President Donald Trump responded to his wifes lawsuit on Fox News radio. You know, Ive done pretty well on these lawsuits lately. And I said, go forward. Jeffrey Epstein has nothing to do with Melania and I introducing. But they do that. They make up stories, he said. Best of StyleCaster Sign up for Stylecaster's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Hunter Biden doesnt seem too concerned about being sued by Melania Trump for comments he made on a podcast linking her to sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. In fact, his response to the first ladys demand for an apology can be summed up in just two words: Fuck that. In a July interview with journalist Andrew Callaghan, the son of former President Joe Biden repeated claims that the disgraced financier introduced the first lady to now-President Donald Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein introduced Melania to Trump, Hunter Biden told Callaghan, citing reporting from author Michael Wolff whom Donald Trump has designated a Third Rate Reporter. The connections are, like, so wide and deep, Biden said. The Trumps have long claimed that they were introduced to each other in 1998 by modeling agent Paolo Zampolli during a New York Fashion Week party. The first ladys lawyer, Alejandro Brito, sent a letter to Biden earlier this month demanding he retract his false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements or risk a lawsuit for $1 billion. Callaghan gave Biden a chance to apologize on Thursday, but he didnt seem particularly inclined to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were here, maybe, to give you the platform to apologize to the first lady for your statements that you made about her possible connection to Jeffrey Epstein, he said to Biden. Fuck that! Thats not going to happen, Biden bluntly responded. Biden then explained that all he did was cite what he has heard and seen reported and written. Although he said his source for the allegation came primarily from Wolff, he pointed out that The New York Times reported in 2019 that Epstein claimed to be the matchmaker. Related: Trump Writes Post About Moscow That's Absurd Even For Him Biden also doesnt think the lawsuit threats are anything other than a designed distraction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not about who introduced whom to who, he said. I dont know how that in any way rises to the level of defamation to begin with. Related: Chuck Schumer Confronts Trump For Selling Out Ukraine In Fiery Post But the fact of the matter is that this is about hundreds, if not over a thousand, minors, children, who were raped by Jeffrey Epstein, Biden said. And I dont believe in guilt by association alone, but the connections that become theyre so glaringly obvious that I think theyre trying to use other things to distract. Biden called the Trumps bullies and seemed amused that they think that a billion dollars is gonna scare me. Related: Chuck Todd Tramples On Joe Biden's Legacy And Says Critical Event Is 'On' Him He then offered the Trumps an opportunity to set the record straight about how they met. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If they want to sit down for a deposition and clarify the nature of the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein, if the president and the first lady want to do that and all of the known associates around them at the time of whatever time that they met, Im more than happy to provide them the platform to be able to do it, he said. HuffPost reached out to Brito for a comment on Bidens response, but no one immediately responded. You can see the interview below. Related... Read the original on HuffPost HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) The Huntsville Police Department, along with area leaders, have provided an update on a major drug trafficking takedown. The North Alabama Drug Task Force (NADTF), dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking organization in the first investigation conducted under Alabamas newly enacted Agent Billy Clardy III Act. According to Huntsville Police, the operation resulted in the following: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 23 indictments the seizure of $4.8 million in illegal drugs the recovery of $223,385 10 firearms and 4 vehicles seized (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) (Courtesy: Huntsville Police Department) Those charged in connection with the operation include: Reginald Eugene Scott, 46, of Huntsville Trafficking Cocaine and Trafficking Marijuana. Fabian Darrell Scott, 48, of Huntsville Trafficking Cocaine. Devin Emmett Farrell, 37, of Texas Trafficking Cocaine and Trafficking Marijuana. Kevin Andre Glenn, 48, of Birmingham Trafficking Cocaine and Trafficking Marijuana. Charnessa Lavern Campbell, 47, of Birmingham Trafficking Cocaine and Trafficking Marijuana. Bryan Saldana, 27, of California Trafficking Marijuana. Juan Alfanso Arredondo, 48, of California Trafficking Marijuana. Ayline Scarlett Largher, 27, of California Trafficking Marijuana. Gregory Lavar Hampton, 48, of Huntsville Trafficking Cocaine. Keyon Nelson Burditte, 29, of California Trafficking Marijuana. Bniam Wolde Abera, 29, of California Trafficking Marijuana. Femark Dewayne Robinson, 53, of Birmingham Trafficking Cocaine, Trafficking Fentanyl, Trafficking Opiates and Trafficking MDMA. Demetrius Laron King Jr., 22, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession with Intent). Marcus Antoine Hammonds, 42, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession). Roderick Terrence Dennis, 42, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession with Intent), Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, and Possession of a Controlled Substance (Opiates). Regis Dewon Bell, 41, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession). Twayne Logan, 42, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession), Possession of Marijuana 1st, Possession with Intent to Distribute MDMA, Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine), and Attempt to Flee/Elude a Police Officer. Jimmy Lee Chandler, 48, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession with Intent) and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. Bruce Lee Thompson, 47, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession). Jonathan Henry Ford Jr., 66, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Distribution). Bryan Andrew Tripp, 46, of Huntsville Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession). Apryl Jesica Tripp, 48, of Huntsville Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Possession). Tammy Lynn Stump, also known as Tammy Salandy, 53, of Huntsville Active warrant for Conspiracy to Commit a Controlled Substance Crime (Distribution). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks to the work of this task force, weve dealt a major blow to criminal networks operating in our community, HPD Chief Kirk Giles said. This law honors Billy and gives law enforcement the tools to continue his mission. ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor commended the coordinated effort, calling it a powerful example of what can be achieved when law enforcement at every level works together with the right tools. The Billy Clardy III Act honors the sacrifice of Agent Clardy by ensuring we have the capabilities and legal oversight needed to remove dangerous criminals from our streets. ALEA Secretary Taylor said. Through this operation, we not only upheld his legacy but successfully disrupted a large-scale drug trafficking organization that posed a serious threat to Alabama communities. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall highlighted the precedent set by the case, stating the Agent Billy Clardy III Act is working exactly as intended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agent Clardy gave his life fighting to keep deadly drugs off our streets. This law honors his sacrifice by giving law enforcement the tools they need to take down the worst of the worst, Attorney General Marshall said. These are the people who poison our communities and profit from addiction and violence. These arrests send a clear message: Alabama is not a safe place for drug traffickers, and we will hunt you down wherever you operate. We will arm our law enforcement agencies with every tool they need to crush the flow of narcotic trafficking into our communities, Madison County Sheriff Kevin Turner said. Drug traffickers dont respect county or city lines, and neither do we. The North Alabama Drug Task Force is the united front of local, state, and federal forces, striking from every angle to drive illicit drugs off our streets and protect our citizens. The Agent Billy Clardy III Act, was signed into law in 2023. The Act provides law enforcement with enhanced investigative tools to disrupt drug trafficking organizations. The law honors fallen HPD STAC Agent Billy Clardy III, who was killed in the line of duty in 2019 while serving a narcotics search warrant. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Aug. 13A bill in the U.S. Senate has $15 million to address a runway on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base that has been in critical condition, U.S. Sen. Jon Husted told the Dayton Daily News Wednesday. "I'm optimistic," Husted said after a tour of Sinclair Community College's health education programs. "We've cleared the first hurdle, which is the committee process. We're included in these bills. But getting anything done in Congress these days is hard. We're working to get bipartisan support." Last year, Amir Mott, deputy director of the 88th Civil Engineer Group, told this newspaper that Wright-Patterson's runway was constructed in 1947 with a concrete landing surface. It has seen decades of successful service, Mott said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But "the condition of the runway has reached critical condition, necessitating ongoing maintenance and repair, and (it) is in need of replacement," Mott said last October. The Senate bill also has $30 million for a human performance laboratory at Wright-Patterson, along with $15 million to address the runway and $2.8 million for what the senator described as "AI strategic planning for the super computer center." Husted recalled voices urging attention to Wright-Patterson's runway while he served as Ohio's lieutenant governor. Gov. Mike DeWine appointed Husted to serve in the Senate in January, after J.D. Vance, the previous holder of that seat, was elected vice president as Donald Trump's running mate in November 2024. "They said, 'Hey, they're not going to have a runway out there before long," Husted said. "It's deteriorating, and if you don't have a flight line, how can you be in the Air Force?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The key will be keeping these Wright-Patterson-focused dollars in any spending bill that reconciles House and Senate plans and avoiding a continuing resolution. Air Force and military leaders generally detest such resolutions, also called "CRs." CRs are stopgap measures to fund the government for a limited time, typically locking the Department of Defense into a previous year's level of funding all while prices are increasing and military threats are evolving. "I will choose to take the optimistic perspective on that," Husted said when asked about the likelihood of another CR. "Right before we left we passed about 80% of the appropriations budget to keep the government running through the Senate on a bipartisan basis. So I'm hopeful that will happen." Aug. 13Republican U.S. Sen. Jon Husted of Ohio, at a Dayton-area event on Wednesday, reacted to reports that he'll face former longtime U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, in the 2026 election. "Look, I don't know who's gonna run. Maybe he'll run, maybe he won't. But I will say that it surprised me, honestly," Husted told reporters during an event at Sinclair Community College. "I mean, what are we, 14 months, 16 months away from the election? He just lost one ten months ago." There's been plenty of talk about Brown, one of the state's only Democrats with considerable name recognition, since he lost his bid for a fourth term in the U.S. Senate to Ohio Republican Bernie Moreno in November 2024. Brown lost that election by 3.6 percentage points in an election where President Donald Trump won the state by more than 11 points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The overperformance helped paint Brown as a viable gubernatorial candidate to challenge presumed GOP nominee Vivek Ramaswamy. Instead, recent reports from the Cleveland Plain Dealer and others indicate that Brown has decided to try to reclaim a spot in the U.S. Senate the seat Husted currently holds. Husted, who was appointed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine to serve out the remainder of a Senate term originally won by Vice President JD Vance, shrugged off the idea of a Brown challenge, noting that he'd rather not talk politics. "Let's get some work done. Let's focus on actually solving problems at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Sinclair Community College and those places before we start talking politics," Husted said. "But, if he chooses to run, he's been around for 50 years in elected office. They spent $300 million on him just ten months ago, and he lost. So, we'll see." ------ Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more stories like this, sign up for our Ohio Politics newsletter. It's free, curated, and delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday evening. Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below. Loading... Aug. 13Smoke from wildfires in North Idaho blew into the Flathead Valley on Wednesday as afternoon winds picked up. Air quality dipped to moderate levels from Columbia Falls to Libby and Thompson Falls as gusts out of the west transported haze into the region from the 2,400-acre Lightning Creek Fire near Sandpoint, Idaho. The newly reported South Meadow Creek Fire near Yaak was also contributing to smoky skies. The haze was expected to linger for a few days amid a dry and breezy weather pattern, the Montana DEQ warned in its air quality forecast Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lake wind advisory was also in place for the Flathead and Mission valleys through Wednesday night with gusts up to 30 mph possible. Other large active fires in the region included the 14,000-acre Big Bear Fire in Idaho's Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, and the 26,000-acre Elkhorn Fire on Idaho's Payette National Forest. "Smoke models continue to indicate that some of this smoke will be transported into the Treasure State between Thursday and Friday," the DEQ smoke forecast stated. Beneficial rainfall is expected by Friday night and into the weekend, with a bull's eye on Northwest Montana. "The precipitation should help to moderate fire behavior and limit smoke production," the forecast stated. Daytime highs in the Flathead Valley will top out in the 70s over the weekend. Originally appeared on E! Online Bryan Kohberger isn't adjusting well to his new life. As the 30-year-old continues his life sentence at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution for the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students, he has been struggling to connect with his fellow inmates. "We are aware of Kohberger's complaints about what he considers taunting," The Idaho Department of Corrections confirmed to NewsNation in an Aug. 13 statement. "Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency asserted that the IDOC maintains a "safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody." That includes Kohberger, the statement noted, who is currently residing in solitary confinement in the J Block of the men's prison. As for what his life looks like while serving four life sentences for the murders of Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin? Director of the Cold Case Foundation and retired homicide detective Chris McDonough told NewsNation's Banfield on Aug. 13 that, according to insider sources, other inmates were "waiting for him." More from E! Online Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When he got there, they are now making his life absolutely miserable," he said. "They're utilizing the vent system. They're kicking the doors. They're taunting him. They're basically torturing him through using psychology." McDonough told host Ashleigh Banfield that Kohberger has been "complaining" about their behavior. He added, "The guards at this point, the most they can do is write it down and tell him, 'Hey, there's nothing we can do. You're not in physical harm.'" E! News has reached out to the IDOC for comment and has not yet heard back. Kyle Green-Pool/Getty Images Following the former criminology student's sentencing last month, he was transferred from the Latah County Jail to the Kuna prison about 300 miles north. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IDOC had previously shared insight into Kohberger's day-to-day at the facility, which houses 535 prisoners, in a statement to E!. As one of 128 residents in the long-term restrictive housing of J Block, he lives in a single-person cell and is provided a shower every other day. Along with one hour of outdoor recreation per day, he also has access to religious services, a commissary and communication through the prison's JPay system. For a closer look at Kohberger's legal saga, keep reading. Who Were Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20, were University of Idaho students who lived in an off-campus apartment. On Nov. 12, 2022the night before their bodies were foundGoncalves and Mogen were at a nearby sports bar, while Kernodle and Chapin were at the latters fraternity party. By 2 a.m. on Nov. 13, the four roommates and Chapin were back at the three-story rental house. Goncalves was a senior majoring in general studies at the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. She was expected to graduate in December before heading to Austin, Texas, for a job at a marketing firm, her friend Jordyn Quesnell told The New York Times. Mogen, who was studying marketing, was best friends with Goncalves since the sixth grade. She had plans to move to Boise after graduation, family friend Jessie Frost shared with The Idaho Statesman. Kernodle was a junior majoring in marketing, the University said at the time. She and Chapinwho majored in recreation, sport and tourism managementhad been dating since the spring, the roommates neighbor Ellie McKnight told NBC News. Were There Any Survivors? Two roommates, Dylan Mortensen and Bethany Funke, had been home at the time of the murders. In text messages that were unsealed March 6, 2025, Mortensen and Funke tried contacting their roommates on Nov. 13 after the former saw a masked man moving through the house, according to documents obtained by E! News. "No one is answering," Mortensen texted Funke at 4:22 a.m. "I'm rlly confused rn." She continued to reach out to their roommates, urging them to respond. "Pls answer," she texted Goncalves at 4:32 a.m. and again at 10:23 a.m. "R u up??" At 11:58 a.m., a 911 call was placed after Kernodle was found unresponsive, per an additional motion obtained by E! News. A woman named A1 in the transcript described the current situation to the operator. "One of the roommates who's passed out and she was drunk last night and she's not waking up," she said on the phone. "They saw some man in their house last night." Who Is Bryan Kohberger and How Was He Found? Bryan Kohberger, who was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one count of burglary, was a doctoral candidate at Washington State University. Over one month after the bodies of Gonclaves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin were discovered, Kohberger was taken into custody Dec. 30 in Monroe County, Penn. He was extradited to Idaho Jan. 4, 2023. As for how authorities connected him to the killings? DNA was found on a knife sheath that was left at the crime scene, prosecutors revealed in June 2023 court documents, per NBC News. When the DNA didn't match anyone in the FBI database, authorities ran the DNA through public ancestry websites to create a list of potential suspects, according to the filings. After learning that Kohberger had driven to his parents' home in Monroe County, local officials then went through their trash and found DNA that tied him to that found on the sheath. What Was Kohbergers Initial Defense? At the moment, a motive for the attack has not been detailed and a gag order prevents many involved in the case from speaking publicly, NBC News reported. However, the unsealed documents provided some insight into their initial arguments. Kohberger's attorneys argued in a motion obtained by E! News to strike the death penalty that Kohbergerwho initially faced death penalty if found guilty on all countshas autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that executing him would violate the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on "cruel and unusual punishment." His defense argued that Kohbereger "displays extremely rigid thinking, perseverates on specific topics, processes information on a piecemeal basis, struggles to plan ahead, and demonstrates little insight into his own behaviors and emotions." "Due to his ASD, Mr. Kohberger simply cannot comport himself in a manner that aligns with societal expectations of normalcy," the motion said. "This creates an unconscionable risk that he will be executed because of his disability rather than his culpability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Where Was the Trial Set? Initially, Kohberger had a judge enter a not-guilty plea to the first-degree murder charges on his behalf after remaining silent at his May 2023 arraignment. Although his trial was set to begin Oct. 2, 2023, Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial in August 2023. His trial datewhich was scheduled to take place in Ada County, more than 300 miles from Latah County, where the killings took placewas set to begin Aug. 11, 2025. Latah County Judge John Judge previously ruled in favor of the transfer request made by Kohberger's defense in September 2024 based on "presumed prejudice" if the trial remained in Latah County. Ada County Judge Steven Hippler denied the defense's request to suppress key DNA and other evidence, including cell phone and email records, surveillance footage, past Amazon purchases and DNA evidence in the trial. What Was the Verdict in the Trial? Kohberger's murder trial was abruptly canceled after he took a plea deal from prosecutors on June 30, 2025. In accepting the deal, Kohberger agreed to plead guilty to four counts of murder and one count of burglary, as well as waive his rights to appeal and ask for a more lenient prison sentence. He entered his guilty plea on July 2, 2025, confirming with a "yes" after the judge asked if he killed all four victims "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought." Did Kohberger Take a Selfie After the Murders? A selfie Kohberger took the morning after the murders took place was introduced in March 2025. The photograph, which sees him in front of a shower showing a thumbs up, displays how he may fit the description a witness identified as "D.M." gave in filings, who said the perpetrator had "bushy eyebrows." Steve Gonclaves, the father of victim Kaylee, later reacted to the image calling it a "trophy" in an interview with Fox and Friends. "I know the timeline, I know that he had just returned to the crime scene and he had come back," Gonclaves said. "He had realized that nobody had called 911." As he put it, "To him, thats his little trophy to let him know like, Hey, I got away with it, nobodys on me. What Did Kohberger Google Before the Murders? In a 2025 Dateline documentary about the murders, a former classmate of Kohbergers detailed a peculiar text she received from him after making his acquaintance at a party. I definitely felt a little obligated to chat with him, because to me, he seemed a little awkward, the studentidentified as Hollyexplained. Kind of like you might expect for a PhD student who didn't know anyone at the party and was maybe trying his best to kind of get out there and be social and make friends. The following day, Holly said she received a text from him, which she described as overly formal. Hey, I am pretty sure we spoke about hiking trips yesterday, Bryans text from July 10, 2022 at 1:19 p.m., read, per Dateline. I really enjoy that activity, so please let me know. Thanks! Elsewhere in the Dateline documentary, Kohbergers browsing history was found to have included searches for Ted Bundy, Britney Spears song Criminal, and the term University of Idaho Murders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Did Kohberger Confess to Killing Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle? After accepting a plea deal that would spare him from the death penalty, Kohberger changed his plea to guilty in the murders of Goncalves, Mogen, Kernodle and Chapin, as well as one count of burglary, at a July 2, 2025 hearing in Idaho. When judge Hippler questioned Kohberger if he killed each victim "willingly, unlawfully, deliberately and with premeditation and malice with forethought," he replied with a firm, "Yes" for each. In taking the plea deal, Kohberger has waived his right to appeal or ask for a more lenient prison sentence, according to Hippler. How Long Is Kohberger's Prison Sentence? Though the families of Goncalves and Kernodle each slammed the decision to issue a plea deal, therby taking the death penalty off the table, Kohberger was officially sentenced to life in prison July 23, 2025. Judge Hippler sentenced Kohberger to four life termsto be served consecutivelywithout the possibility of parole for each count of first-degree murder, along with a $50,000 fine for each count and a $5,000 civil penalty to be paid to each of the victims' families. He also gave Kohberger 10 years and imposed a fine of $50,000 on the burglary count. For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App Illinois education officials on Wednesday approved changes to their cut scores the benchmarks used to determine proficiency used for state standardized tests. "Prior performance levels mislabeled many students in elementary and high school, often indicating that students were less academically successful and prepared for college than they actually were. The new, unified levels correct long-standing misalignment between Illinois' state assessments and other real college and career readiness expectations," the Illinois State Board of Education announced on Wednesday. The Board maintained that its learning standards and assessments have not changed. The new policy changes the score that proves proficiency in core subjects on each state assessment in order to "align it to college and career readiness expectations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the school board meeting, Illinois State Superintendent Tony Sanders said the move is not a lowering of standards, but rather an adjustment that appropriately fits with the reality of student outcome patterns. Illinois education officials approved changes to the cut scores used to determine proficiency on state standardized tests. Illinois Parents Wary Of School Mental Health Screening Law, Potential For 'Overreach' The decision stems from the Boards 18-month-long process of consulting with over 100 educators and other local higher education stakeholders to establish new proficiency benchmarks. Read On The Fox News App The Board said that such benchmarks are based on analysis of "college and university course placement data and student probabilities of passing college coursework" and success data from Illinois colleges and universities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Illinois Assessment of Readiness decreased its cut scores, while increasing the cut scores for the Illinois Science Assessment. According to ChalkBeat, data shared in a presentation on Tuesday indicates that more students will be labeled as "proficient" than in the previous year. "Under the new cut scores, 53% of students would be considered proficient in English language arts, up from 41% last year; 38% would be proficient in math, up from 28% last year; and 45% would be in science, down from last year," ChalkBeat reported. San Francisco School District Ditches Proposed 'Grading For Equity' Strategy After Backlash From Community The Illinois State Board of Education maintains that their learning standards and assessments have not changed. The new policy changes the score that proves proficiency in core subjects on each state assessment in order to "align it to college and career readiness expectations." "Illinois' students are nationally recognized for their academic achievements, but our proficiency rates have not reflected that reality," Sanders said in a statement released by the board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanders added that the states proficiency benchmarks mislabeled students, inhibiting qualified students from accessing opportunities for accelerations and giving students the impression that they were not ready for college when they actually were. "Illinois' new performance levels bring much-needed alignment between grade levels, subjects, and actual college and career readiness expectations," Sanders said. Representative Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, claimed that the new benchmarks will benefit rural students, low-income students and students of color. According to ChalkBeat, data shared in a presentation Tuesday indicates that more students will be labeled as proficient than were last year. "Under the new cut scores, 53% of students would be considered proficient in English language arts, up from 41% last year; 38% would be proficient in math, up from 28% last year; and 45% would be in science, down from last year," ChalkBeat reported. "These common-sense adjustments will align state testing benchmarks with college expectations and will particularly benefit rural students, low-income students, and students of color whose true capabilities and academic successes have not been reflected in our state's proficiency rates or in their own test results," Canty said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I believe better data leads to better outcomes for all students. The Accelerated Placement Act can only achieve its goal of expanding access to advanced coursework and college preparation for all qualified students if we are using accurate measures of student achievement." Original article source: Illinois changes benchmarks that proved proficiency in math, English on standardized tests The Brief An Illinois court will not enforce civil warrants against Texas Democrats that left the state. The judge ruled that Attorney General Ken Paxton and House Speaker Dustin Burrows did not prove the court has jurisdiction to enforce the warrants. Texas Democrats left the state on Aug. 3 to prevent a vote on redrawn congressional maps designed to give Republicans five additional seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. ADAMS COUNTY, Ill. - An Illinois judge ruled that the state will not enforce civil warrants against Texas House Democrats that left the state during the special legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Democrats fled the state to prevent a vote on redrawn congressional maps, House Speaker Dustin Burrows issued civil arrest warrants against those Democrats on Aug. 4. The warrants can only be enforced inside the state. Last week, Burrows and Attorney General Ken Paxton petitioned courts in Illinois and California, two of the states where Democrats fled, to recognize those warrants and assist Texas in forcing those lawmakers to return. What they're saying Judge Scott Larson said Wednesday that Paxton and Burrows did not demonstrate how the Illinois court had jurisdiction over "such a unique cause of action." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Larson said the court could not consider or determine if "foreign legislators" were "willfully evading" civil warrants issued in Texas. Additionally, the court cannot direct Illinois law enforcement officers to execute civil warrants against "nonresidents" currently in the state. "Further, this court notes that the quorum warrants issued by the State of Texas House of Representatives are geographically limited and specifically requests that the Sergeant-at-Arms of the House of Representatives of the State of Texas take into custody the Member, wherever the Member may be found in the State [Texas],'" Larson said. Larson said that even if the court could consider the case, it could only consider if the lawmakers were disobeying a court order and not force their return. Texas legislature special session and quorum break The backstory Texas Democrats left the state on Aug. 3 to prevent a vote on new congressional maps proposed by Republicans that sought to gain five additional Republican seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic lawmakers fled to Illinois, California, New York and Massachusetts in a effort to prevent the House from reaching a quorum, or the minimum number of members required to take up legislation. Earlier this week, the House and Senate announced they would end the first special session early if lawmakers do not return by Friday. Gov. Greg Abbott has said he will immediately call a second special session when the first one ends and continue to call special sessions until Democrats return to the House. The Source Information on the Illinois court ruling comes from court documents filed in the 8th judicial district of Illinois. Backstory on Texas Democrats breaking quorum comes from previous FOX 4 reporting. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO) Gov. JB Pritzker signed a package of legislation on Thursday aimed at supporting labor unions at the state level, in response to recent federal changes. At the Illinois AFL-CIO headquarters, Pritzker signed SB1976, HB1189, and HB2488 to prevent the Illinois Department of Labor and Department of Natural Resources from adopting any rules less protective than those in effect under federal law as of April 28th, 2025. Pritzker said the new laws were in response to a March 2025 executive order from the White House that eliminated collective bargaining for a large portion of the unionized federal workforce, which he described as an assault on labor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump argued that collective bargaining agreements limited management flexibility in areas like staffing, performance evaluations, and workplace changes, and the executive order effectively gave management the ability to make unilateral decisions within government agencies. Our state stands up for the hard-won advances made for our workers. The Pullman Strikes, the Haymarket Affairit has been the working men and women of this state that have led the charge of progress not just for Illinois, but for the entire nation, said Pritzker. This legislation protects Illinois workers from the Trump administrations assault on labor, because our workers cant afford to be subject to the whims of corruption and chaos in Washington. Today, we continue our progress to make Illinois the best state in the nation to live, work, and raise a family. SB1976, or the Illinois Workers Rights and Safety Act, preserves worker protections set forth by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act, regardless of any changes at the federal level. HB1189, an amendment to the Prevailing Wage Act, ensures that compensation for union employees reflects current local labor conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HB2488, which was previously signed, eliminates references to the federal Equal Pay Act, and requires private employers in Illinois with 100 or more employees to report on employee wages by gender and race. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTWO/WAWV) Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill package Thursday aimed at protecting workers and supporting organized labor. Governor Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1976, House Bill 1189, and House Bill 2488 to reaffirm his support for working families across the state and the Illinois Department of Labor. The collection of laws is designed to preserve current pay standards and worker protections against federal rollbacks from the current administration. Our state stands up for the hard-won advances made for our workers. The Pullman Strikes, the Haymarket Affairit has been the working men and women of this state that have led the charge of progress not just for Illinois, but for the entire nation, said Governor JB Pritzker. This legislation protects Illinois workers from the Trump administrations assault on labor, because our workers cant afford to be subject to the whims of corruption and chaos in Washington. Today, we continue our progress to make Illinois the best state in the nation to live, work and raise a family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Bill 1976 is known as the Illinois Workers Rights and Safety Act. This act was an initiative from the Illinois AFL-CIO and the Illinois Department of Labor. The act will preserve the worker protections put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Coal Mine Health and Safety Act despite federal rollbacks. The law will also require the Illinois Department of Labor to replace any repealed federal occupational safety standard with a state standard. Illinois governor announces applications for Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program When we defend the rights of workers, we defend the rights of all. When we improve conditions for workers, we are directly impacting the quality of life for families, women, children, and everyone else in our state, said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. Thats what today is really about celebrating Illinois dedication to doing right by the people who keep us moving forward. House Bill 1189 amends the Prevailing Wage Act to ensure that workers for federal construction projects in the state are paid the Illinois prevailing wage whenever its higher than the federal rate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the Illinois Department of Labor, we are committed to protecting the safety and economic security of Illinois workers, said Illinois Department of Labor Director Jane Flanagan. At a time when federal labor enforcement has diminished and workers rights face new threats, the work we do every day to uphold Illinois workplace protections has never been more vital. House Bill 2488 was previously signed into law, but was highlighted in Thursdays signings as another recent bill signed to protect Illinois workers rights. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyWabashValley.com. (The Center Square) An Illinois judge has rejected a lawsuit filed by the state of Texas against 33 House Democrats who absconded from the state to stop legislative proceedings. The lawsuit was filed in the Eighth Judicial Circuit Court in Adams County, Illinois. It asked the court to hold the Democrats in contempt and to domesticate Texas warrants, allowing for absconding Democrats to be arrested and brought back to Texas. It was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Illinois state Sen. Jil Walker Tracy, R-Quincy, The Center Square reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Scott Larson said in a Wednesday ruling that Paxton had 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. 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. Larson also said that Illinois courts cant determine whether foreign legislators willfully abscond from their duties and cannot direct Illinois law enforcement to execute civil quorum warrants upon nonresidents temporarily located in the State of Illinois. Paxton and House Speaker Dustin Burrows havent issued a statement in response and didnt immediately respond to requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas lawsuit disagrees, arguing the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution establishes the doctrine of comity between states. 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 lawsuit states. In this case, Texas asked the court to issue an order to effectuate the Quorum Warrants, just as if they were acts of the State of Illinois, treating Texas Quorum Warrants as its own civil order. It also asked the court to issue a rule to show cause why Respondents should not be held in contempt, to initiate contempt proceedings against Texas Democrats for unlawfully seeking to evade Texass duly issued Quorum Warrants, and set a hearing as soon as possible. If it didnt, Texas is threatened with immediate and irreparable harm, the lawsuit argues. It is unclear if Texas will appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court. If it did, and the court ruled against Texas, Texas could appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, The Center Square reported. More than 50 House Democrats fled the state to avoid being arrested in Texas after breaking quorum and stopping House proceedings during a special session. The House is scheduled to convene on Friday. If the House Democrats dont show up, then both the House and Senate will adjourn sine die and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott will immediately call a second legislative session. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After blocking a Hill Country relief package that was scheduled for a vote in the House on Tuesday, House Democrats said they may return after the first special session was over, The Center Square reported. 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 House Democratic Caucus said. Abbott has said he will call special session after special session until the legislature passes bills on the call for the session. He also said Texas Democrats mailing their demands FROM CHICAGO is embarrassing. He told them to Come back and fight like Texans rather than running and hiding like cowards. Court rejects lawsuit against Texas Democrats An Adams County judge has rejected a lawsuit against 33 Texas House Democrats who absconded from the state to stop legislative proceedings. The suit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Illinois state Sen. Jil Tracy, R-Quincy, asked that the Texas Democrats be held in contempt, which would have allowed for them to be arrested and returned to their home state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Scott Larson ruled that the plaintiffs had failed to present a legal basis for the court to obtain subject-matter jurisdiction. No charges for police Cook County States Attorney Eileen ONeill Burke announced Wednesday that police officers would not be charged in connection with the shooting of a Chicago man during a traffic stop last year. ONeill said Dexter Reed, 26, opened fire with a gun he did not legally possess about 30 seconds after officers approached his vehicle. Burke said the evidence was overwhelming, and the Illinois States Attorney Appellate Prosecutors Office agreed with her offices decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Busy airport Chicagos OHare International Airport had its second-busiest month ever with more than eight-million passengers in June. Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation say flight operations in the first half of 2025 are up 10.4% year-over-year. GIBSON CITY, Ill. (WMBD) The Illinois State Police are still looking for a man allegedly connected to a shooting that injured two police officers last week. The state police said they are continuing to look for 70-year-old David Jordan, who was allegedly involved in the Aug. 9 incident in Gibson City. Officers with the Gibson City Police Department and the Ford County Sheriffs Department were called at 2:31 a.m. that day to the 100 block of Ash Street to a report of a man, allegedly Jordan, who was walking around naked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When they arrived, they tried to talk to Jordan at his house when he allegedly opened fire. Hes accused of hitting a Gibson City officer and a Ford County deputy, Illinois State Police said. Shortly after the alleged shooting occurred, Jordans house caught on fire and he has not been seen since, said a post on the Illinois State Polices Facebook page. The state police said recently the deputy, who has served six years with the sheriffs office, was shot in the left knee and left arm. The Gibson City officer was shot in the left hip. Neither of them fired their weapons during the incident. Both were taken to area hospitals and were treated for their injuries, the state police said. The next day, they were released from the hospital and placed on paid administrative leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information on Jordan is asked to call their local police or submit a tip on ISPs Crime Tip website. The Illinois State Police does not believe there is an active threat to the public, but people are told not to approach Jordan if they see him and instead call 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois State Police (ISP) is reminding motorists about school zone speed laws and sharing the road safely with buses as schools around the state open their doors for the new academic year. ISP reminds motorists they are required to slow down in school zones. Posted school zones have a speed limit of 20 miles per hour and are in effect from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on school days when children are present. Driving while talking or texting on a hand-held cellular device is strictly prohibited and fines increase within a school zone. Adults are encouraged to promote safe walking habits with their children, including using sidewalks, crossing the street at designated crosswalks, and not walking in-between cars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The majority of students transported by bus to or from school are injured or killed while outside the bus. Most children injured in the area around the bus, often called the danger zone, are struck by motorists who fail to stop for the flashing red lights and extended stop arm. Motorists approaching a stopped school bus with its visual signals activated, lights and extended stop sign, must stop their vehicle at least 20 feet before reaching the school bus. When a school bus stops on a two-lane roadway and uses its visual signals, vehicles in both directions must stop until the school bus turns off its visual signals. When the school bus stops and uses its visual signals on a one-way roadway, regardless of the number of lanes of traffic, all traffic must stop. When the school bus stops on a four or more-lane roadway with at least two lanes of traffic traveling in the opposite direction, only those traveling in the same direction as the school bus must stop. State law requires school buses to stop for all railroad crossings. If you are approaching a stopped school bus at a railroad crossing from the opposite direction, you may proceed past with caution. If you are approaching from the rear, in the same direction as the bus, and are within 100 feet from the railroad crossing, the law prohibits driving over the center line to pass the bus. A first-time violation for failing to stop for a school bus unloading/loading while their lights are activated and stop arm extended can result in a mandatory $300 fine and a three-month suspension of driving privileges. For additional information concerning the safe interaction with school buses in traffic, visit the ISP website Traffic Safety Brochures page, where you can find the School Bus Safety Brochure. This year, 32 companies in the Kansas City metro area landed on the Inc. 5000 ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. The Inc. 5000, published Tuesday, ranks companies by their percentage of revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. Qualifying companies must have minimum revenue of $100,000 in 2021 and $2 million in 2024. Crux KC and OCCU-TEC Inc., which landed in the No. 2,341 and No. 3,084 spots, respectively, attributed part of their growth to each other. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch: Crews wash Worlds Largest Rubber Duck at Missouri State Fair North Kansas City-based OCCU-TEC began working with Crux KC around four years ago, the first time OCCU-TEC ever invested in fractional marketing services, CEO Skuli Gudmundsson said. Having help from Crux KC, we are light years ahead of where weve been at any time in the 40-year-history of the company, Gudmundsson said. Read more about the collaboration between the two companies and see which other local companies cracked the Inc. 5000 in the Kansas City Business Journal. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Shivam Patel and Liz Lee NEW DELHI/BEIJING (Reuters) -From talks on resuming direct flights to a series of high-level bilateral visits, longtime rivals China and India are quietly and cautiously strengthening ties against the backdrop of U.S. President Donald Trumps unpredictable approach to both. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit New Delhi next week for talks with India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval on their disputed Himalayan border, the second such meeting since a deadly clash in 2020 between Indian and Chinese troops, two people familiar with the matter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the end of the month when he travels to China - his first visit in seven years - to attend the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a regional security bloc. The engagements follow a thaw in India and China's five-year standoff after an agreement last October on patrolling their Himalayan border, which eased the strain on bilateral ties that had hurt trade, investment and air travel. Relations were further boosted in recent weeks amid new tensions in India-U.S. ties after decades of progress, analysts said, as Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian exports to the United States - one of the highest levels among Washington's strategic partners. The United States and China, meanwhile, this week extended a tariff truce for another 90 days, staving off triple-digit duties on each other's goods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China and India have already agreed to resume direct flights suspended since 2020 and are discussing easing trade barriers, including reopening border trade at three Himalayan crossings. While border trade accounts for only a small portion of the $127.7 billion bilateral trade recorded in the last fiscal year, its revival is seen as a symbolic step toward normalising economic ties. "We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points," India's foreign ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, told a regular press conference on Thursday. IMPROVING RESIDENTS' LIVES Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beijing told Reuters it was also ready to resume border trade that had for a long time played an "important role in improving the lives of residents along the border and enhancing exchanges between the two peoples". A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson also said Beijing has been in close communication with New Delhi to "push for the resumption of direct flights as soon as possible". India's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the exact timing. Meanwhile, Indias government think-tank has proposed easing investment rules that effectively require additional scrutiny for Chinese companies another sign of a potential shift in economic engagement. (Reporting by Shivam Patel in New Delhi and Liz Lee in BeijingEditing by Gareth Jones) (This story has been updated with responses from Notre Dame and Butler University.) Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is demanding more information from the University of Notre Dame and Butler University as his office ramps up its pre-litigation investigation into whether the colleges' diversity, equity and inclusion practices are illegal. Earlier this summer, Rokita's office sent letters to Notre Dame, Butler and DePauw University in which he requested a bevy of internal DEI information and argued such practices and policies are a form of racial discrimination. Now, in letters sent this month, Rokita is issuing a civil investigative demand, which is a legal tool the attorney general can use to collect information prior to litigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On behalf of the people of Indiana, a full investigation is warranted to ensure that racial discrimination is not practiced in our institutions of higher education," Rokita said in a new release. He said the two universities failed to "address in any meaningful way" the questions included in his initial request for information in May. In the release, he said publicly available materials are "troubling" and "raise serious questions" whether they are in compliance with discrimination law. DePauw's response to the office's request is still being reviewed, the release said. In his Aug. 6 letter to Notre Dame a Catholic university Rokita said its religious mission does not give it "a license to discriminate on the basis of race, and the critically important First Amendment right to free exercise of religion." Notre Dame, Butler universities respond Notre Dame spokesperson Erin Blasko told IndyStar in a statement that it treats everyone in its community in line with its Catholic beliefs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "At the heart of these beliefs is the recognition that we are all children of God, deserving of dignity and respect from one another," the statement reads. "We are likewise committed to the rule of law. Accordingly, Notre Dame does not discriminate based on race or ethnicity." The university will respond to the new request, the statement said. Rokita was more scathing and explicit in his Aug. 13 letter to Butler, which doesn't have a religious affiliation. "The state of Indiana has a 'fundamental, overriding interest in eradicating racial discrimination in education,'" Rokita's Butler letter reads. "I aim to vindicate that interest by helping ensure that institutions of higher education in our state do not practice racial discrimination of any kind in their admissions, hiring, or other functions." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His office is additionally investigating whether the univeristy has violated two consumer protection laws, the Indiana False Claims Act and the Deceptive Consumer Sales Act threats that were not weighed against Notre Dame. In a statement to IndyStar, Butler spokesperson Mark Apple said in a statement that the university is reviewing the attorney general's request and plans to respond. "We stand by the response we submitted on June 27, which affirmed that Butler University does not treat individuals differently based on race or ethnicity," the statement reads. "We are committed to ensuring that our policies and practices comply with federal and state laws." Rokita is the first attorney general in the country to publicly threaten legal challenges using a university's nonprofit status over differences on "culture war" issues following the lead of U.S. President Donald Trump's feud with Harvard University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A flurry of recent federal and state executive orders seek to strip DEI from the government's vernacular. One particular Indiana law prohibits public institutions from taking actions based on an individual's "personal characteristic," such as race, religion, color or sex. Will Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita sue? These types of civil demands are typically a precursor to litigation, which Rokita has floated as a possibility. Notre Dame must respond to the new demands by Aug. 27 and Butler by Sept. 3. Rokita's assistant chief deputy, Blake Lanning, previously told IndyStar that the office could seek targeted court injunctions to halt policies and practices it believes to be illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nonprofit organizations such as these universities exist to provide a public benefit, Lanning said, and in turn, they receive tax benefits. If an organization's actions are antithetical to its purpose, he said, the attorney general's office has legal grounds to act. However, the Indiana attorney general's powers are focused on operational changes, so the office cannot revoke a nonprofit's tax-exempt status and force an organization to pay state taxes, such as corporate income, property and sales taxes. 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 AG Rokita steps up investigation into Butler, Notre Dame DEI practices CHICAGO Texas Democrats have now been in Chicagoland for over a week after fleeing the Lone Star state to block a vote on new congressional maps. Indiana Democrats, including lawmakers from Northwest Indiana, came across the border on Wednesday to support the Texas Democrats. I proudly stand with my Texas colleagues to protect our democracy, to resist this power grab and to stand firmly on the right side of history, State Rep. Cherrish Pryor (D-Indiana) said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Texas Democrats arrived in Illinois on Aug. 3, the night before the vote was scheduled. The move prevented Texas Republicans from being able to redraw the states congressional districts mid-decade, or before the typical 10-year mark. Texas Democrats arrive in Illinois to block vote back home on redrawn House maps sought by Trump The proposed maps, which come at the request of President Trump ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, would send up to five more Republicans to Congress. While Texas is on the front lines of this fight, Indiana may be next in line, Pryor said. Texas Dems in Illinois vow to keep fighting despite bomb threat, security concerns Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Trump administration looks at other red states to gain more seats, Indiana Democrats are hoping to prevent something similar from happening in the Hoosier State. However, not every Indiana Republican is on board. At least four have spoken out against it. Im against it. We dont need to redistrict, State Rep. Jim Lucas (R-Indiana) said. When you look at things policy wise, were doing great things so why fix it if its not broken? Vice President JD Vance was in Indiana last week, reportedly pitching the idea of redistricting to Gov. Mike Braun. Texas Democrats find support at St. Sabina Church amid redistricting battle Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before any vote on redistricting is held in Indiana, a special session would need to be called. Let me remind you that not one lawmaker was calling for a special session before this guy showed up from Washington with his shoplifting strategy, OK? Not one, State Rep. Ed Delaney (D-Indiana) said. Shortly after Vances visit, Indianas Lt. Gov. said he supports the idea of redistricting mid-decade. Braun, however, has not commented publicly on where he stands on the issue. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. Rep. Earl Harris, Jr., D-East Chicago, speaks at a gathering with other Indiana lawmakers and Texas House Democrats in Chicago. (Courtesy of Indiana House Democrats) A half-dozen Indiana House Democrats met with their Texas colleagues Wednesday in Chicago to oppose unprecedented mid-cycle redistricting efforts, a process that typically occurs once in a decade. Earlier that same day, national nonpartisan election advocates softened their uniform opposition to gerrymandering, saying they recognized the wide-reaching crisis in our democracy. Rep. Ed DeLaney, of Indianapolis, likened the effort to congressional-level shoplifting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nations top elected leader, President Donald Trump, has pressured GOP-led states to redraw the boundaries of their congressional districts in the hopes of keeping the slim Republican majority, starting with Texas. Republicans in the Lone Star State unveiled maps that could net their party an additional five seats but many House Democrats fled to Illinois, preventing the maps from advancing. Vice President JD Vance traveled to Indiana last week to make a personal redistricting pitch to Gov. Mike Braun and Republican legislative leaders, who havent publicly committed to moving forward. 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 congressional districts; to steal them off of the shelf, run outside and wave them in front of the whole country, said DeLaney. We cannot have this kind of conduct. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He noted that former House Speaker Brian Bosma, a Republican, has shared his opposition to redistricting, telling the Indiana Capital Chronicle earlier this week it was in bad form. DeLaney openly wondered if Indiana Republicans would simply revisit redistricting every time they lost a seat in Congress. Texas Rep. Gene Wu, the minority leader, accused Republicans of trying to cheat, to rig the system so they can stay in power and using the D.C. swamp to dictate state-level elections. we have heard from California; we have heard from New York; we have heard from Illinois that people are ready to stand up, said Wu. People are ready to fight back. Republicans hold seven of Indianas nine congressional seats while Democrats control districts in Indianapolis and northwestern Indiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Earl Harris, Jr.s East Chicago seat sits within that latter congressional district and he said, My job is to help the people I represent, not the guy in Washington D.C. My district has a big population of Blacks and Latinos. Why are we disenfranchising the voters of Black and brown people who choose who we want to represent us? Harris asked. Texas is here not only fighting for Texas. Theyre fighting for Indiana; theyre fighting for Illinois. Theyre fighting for states all over this country. It is important that we representatives from the State of Indiana show up and show them that we have their back. Standards for mid-cycle redistricting Earlier that afternoon, national advocates with Common Cause detailed their own set of standards for redistricting while warning that the country was sliding into authoritarianism. Though previously against gerrymandering in all forms including those potentially occurring in blue states to counter the actions of Texas the organization softened its stance. Virginia Solomon, the president and CEO of Common Cause. (Screenshot from Zoom) The political situation we find ourselves in is unlike anything we have seen before in modern history. What President Trump and his supporters have done in Texas is straight out of an authoritarian playbook, said Virginia Solomon, the president and CEO of Common Cause. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nonpartisan organization has long been a key player on the national scene when it comes to redistricting, filing lawsuits in various states to challenge allegedly unfair maps filed by both Republicans and Democrats. One such challenge made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that it had no role in policing partisan gerrymandering. Common Cause has laid out six ways to evaluate the fairness of mid-cycle redistricting: Whether the process is proportional, meaning the process should be a targeted response proportional to the threat posed in other states. Whether the process included meaningful public participation. Whether the maps were drawn in a way that is racially equitable and dont dilute the political voice of communities of color. Whether leaders publicly endorse the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act. The federal bills would ban mid-decade redistricting and partisan gerrymandering. Whether leaders endorse independent redistricting, or citizen-led, independent redistricting commissions as a long-term solution. Whether the maps are time-limited, meaning that Any new redistricting maps must expire following the 2030 Census. The organization has vowed to oppose maps that dont meet the criteria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not acquiescing. I think were just being realists in this moment. We can have a purist mentality and say all gerrymandering is bad which is where we actually stand but we also recognize the political moment that we are in, said Solomon. Common Cause has not shifted, the landscape has. And we will continue to hold true to our values in this political upheaval, but we refuse to carry the water for any political party. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX For nearly two years, groups throughout Indiana have been building partnerships and planning how to effectively allocate around $130 million in federal grants to help low-income Hoosiers cut their utility bills with rooftop and community solar projects. The work paid off. Organizations received signed contracts under the Solar for All program to assist as many as 7,000 homes in Indiana with renewable energy projects that would cut their electricity bills by 20%. That money also would help train Hoosiers for jobs in the solar industry. Just as the groups were preparing to find contractors for the work, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced the federal agency is taking back all that money and shuttering the program a move staff members of the Indiana organizations working on the projects likened to having the rug pulled out from under them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a huge gut punch, said Zach Schalk, Indiana program director for Solar United Neighbors. In announcing his intent to cancel the solar program in a video posted to his social media accounts, Zeldin said the agency is adhering to the recently passed federal reconciliation bill and acting as a great steward of taxpayer dollars. But he made no mention of environmental stewardship a central tenant of the agency. Since being signed into law on Independence Day, EPA has been diligently working to implement President Trumps One Big Beautiful Bill in accordance with congressional intent, Zeldin said. The reconciliation bill Indiana Senators Jim Banks and Todd Young, as well as Indianas entire Republican delegation to the U.S. House, voted to approve repealed the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund that oversaw the Solar for All program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EPA is taking action," Zeldin said, "to end this program for good. Zeldin has spent his tenure as EPA's administrator rolling out an onslaught of deregulatory actions. He visited Indianapolis in July to announce the "largest regulatory action in the history of the United States" with the repeal of the endangerment finding, and earlier this year in May he announced large cuts to his own agency. The One Big Beautiful Bill eliminated the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, which included a $7 billion pot called Solar for All. In some cases, your tax dollars were diluted through up to FOUR pass-through entities, each taking their own cut off the top! The bottom line is pic.twitter.com/TXS8IYhcoh Lee Zeldin (@epaleezeldin) August 7, 2025 Indiana programs working to distribute money When the Solar for All program was established at the EPA in 2023, two coalitions formed to bring some of that money into Indiana one a statewide group, the other a multi-state partnership. The EPA awarded the statewide group, Solar Opportunities Indiana, about $117 million to solarize low-income homes while transforming the market in Indiana by creating new financial products and incentives that jumpstart solar for low-income residents, new affordable housing developments, and more, according to an April 2024 statement from EPA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The multistate award went to the Industrial Heartland Solar Coalition. This group united 31 communities across the Midwest and Rust Belt to begin building out residential rooftop solar. The statewide Solar Opportunities Indiana program was part of the Indiana Community Action Association, a not-for-profit group assisting low-income Hoosiers, and was overseen by Alison Becker, program director at Solar for All. The group had been in the planning stages since December and was putting together proposals to hire contractors and gearing up for a marketing campaign when the EPA pulled the plug. We were so close to the tipping point of things happening, Becker said. There was so much time, effort and energy to make it work throughout the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of this money impacts between 6,000 and 7,000 homes, Becker said. There also was money budgeted for work force development to create and train workers for high-paying jobs to install the solar projects. The Solar for All program already had signed contracts for the grant money, and Becker said that money is considered obligated under federal law, though Zeldin said the agency no longer has the authority to distribute those funds after the reconciliation bill was signed into law. The EPAs decision to pull back these funds likely will result in several lawsuits. The termination agreement gives groups 21 days to dispute the decision, Becker said, and several states and some grant recipients are looking at potential litigation. All of those decisions still have to be made, or its simply winding down operations and not continuing operations anymore, Becker said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One group working under the SOI umbrella was Black Sun Light Sustainability, which is focused on reducing harmful emissions and advancing clean energy projects in Indiana. Denise Abdul-Rahman, founder and CEO of the group, said Zeldins announcement was a disappointment and missed opportunity. Its a really sad day for communities in need of energy affordability, Abdul-Rahman said. Black Sun Light hired staff members to help with the statewide program before federal dollars were taken off the table. They were tasked with researching resiliency hubs and were working with groups like the United Methodist Women on identifying project locations in Indiana. The hubs would have provided communities with relief during power outages and given people with medical needs such as oxygen machines and refrigerated insulin the electricity they need, Abdul-Rahman said. Indianapolis planned to use money for solar projects The City of Indianapolis was involved with both the statewide program and the wider Heartland program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mo McReynolds, director of Indys Office of Sustainability, said some of the federal money was going toward a 5-megawatt solar array on city property. The grant would have supported the feasibility study for that project, which would have brought rates down to help households with high energy costs. The city was also using Solar for All funds to implement individual projects on single- and multi-family homes. Indy residents benefitting from the program would have seen around a 20% reduction of their energy burden, McReynolds said. Joe Bowling, executive director with the Englewood Community Development Corporation, had sent a letter of support for Indiana winning these awards to Schalk at Solar United Neighbors. Bowling and the CDC have an affordable housing program on Indy's near east side that manages about 400 homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I believe we need to do all we can to create a lot more energy," Bowling said, "and if we can do that on rooftops at the point of consumption with renewables that do not pollute the air or warm the environment, that seems like a good thing." The large upswing of data centers coming to Indiana is creating an increasingly large demand for energy in Indiana, and Bowling said closing off opportunities to create more energy is a bad idea. Bowling also noted many Hoosiers are already feeling a financial squeeze by utilities as rates increase, and residents living on fixed Social Security incomes are going to have an increasingly difficult time keeping up with rent and rising electricity prices. "Solar for all was going to benefit low-income grandmas living on very little income," Bowling said. "That's whose interests we would live to see served." Hoosiers look at what comes next Schalk and Solar United Neighbors were providing technical support for the statewide program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of money is a loss to struggling families as they face electric bills going up, Schalk said. A recent report from Citizens Action Coalition shows Indiana saw, on average, the largest utility bill increases this past year since at least 2005. Shannon Anderson, director of advocacy at Earth Charter Indiana, also had been working on getting this money to Indiana communities since the program began in 2023. She and other Indiana groups are wondering where they might find other types of funding, but nothing will match the federal dollars that were pulled away. My biggest heartbreak is that so many of us worked so long to come to a place where we cleared all kinds of hurdles and promised to use this money in a way that we feel is not just most accountable to the EPA and to taxpayers, but to our own consciousness, Anderson said. Solar for All would have provided benefits to historically underserved neighborhoods, Anderson said, and those communities are already dealing with the some of the state's worst air quality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It would be wonderful to see new programs come into Indiana in the wake of this, Anderson said. "People who often experience legacy pollution are really served beyond just financial saving with the environmental benefits of solar energy. While Zeldins announcement left Anderson bereft, she is not ready to give up and encourages Hoosiers to reach out to their federal representatives. As summers get hotter, people who might have to make financial decision to turn off their AC and that could be difference between life and death for them, Anderson said. I cant underscore how important programs like this could be in that equation. IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. Karl Schneider is an IndyStar environment reporter. You can reach him at karl.schneider@indystar.com. Follow him on BlueSky @karlstartswithk.bsky.social or X @karlstartswithk. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: EPA cancels Indiana solar grants aimed at helping low-income Hoosiers This article will update. A domestic violence call on the city's northeast side started a series of events that would lead to an officer firing their weapon at suspects on the run hours later. Just before 9 p.m. on Aug. 13, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers were dispatched to a domestic disturbance in the 7700 block of Knue Road. The person who called police reported being assaulted by a male armed with a gun. The suspect fled in a vehicle before officers arrived, a news release from the department states. Around midnight Aug. 14, an officer in a marked patrol vehicle found the suspects vehicle traveling westbound near East 30th Street and Ruckle Street, about eight miles away from the night's earlier domestic violence call. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer waited for backup before attempting a traffic stop, the news release said, but when officers activated their emergency lights and sirens, the suspect refused to stop and a short vehicle pursuit ensued. Police say in the 400 block of West 28th Street, two people got out of the vehicle, which continued rolling, and multiple shots were fired at the officers by at least one of the fleeing suspects. One officer, a seven-year IMPD veteran, fired their weapon. No injuries were reported as of 9 a.m. on Aug. 14. A suspect description was broadcast to other officers and additional resources including IMPD K9 and a drone were deployed to search the area. At about 8:30 a.m. on Aug. 14, police arrested two men in the 2700 block of Paris Avenue. There was an extensive police presence, and two SWAT vehicles were on the scene. SWAT lines up on Paris Ave. at 27th St. during an incident Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025 after shots were fired against police over night on this street. A sergeant on the scene could not confirm that the arrests were made in connection with the officer-involved shooting, but said an investigation was ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said they "have no reason to believe" the suspects are a threat to the community. Detectives recovered fired cartridge casings near where the suspects fled, the news release said. The officer was equipped with a body-worn camera and in-car video system, both of which were activated. The police department's Critical Incident Response Team is leading the criminal investigation and a separate administrative investigation will be handled by Internal Affairs. As standard procedure, the involved officer has been placed on administrative leave. Following the criminal investigation, the civilian-majority Use of Force Review Board will hold a mandatory hearing regarding the attempted use of deadly force. Investigators look at a house at Paris Ave. at 28th St. during an incident Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025 after shots were fired against police over night. SWAT entered a home at 27th and Paris. Officer-involved shootings in Indianapolis for 2025 On July 29, a person was shot after opening fire on an officer during a traffic stop and was left in critical condition. Just after 2 p.m., the officer was following a carjacked vehicle near the intersection of West 16th Street and North Harding Street. The vehicle pulled into the Union at 16th apartment complex, and what unfolded was one suspect running from the vehicle, one shooting at the officer, and two more who fled and were caught in the complex. The officer was also shot but was in stable condition. On July 24, Walter McNary, 76, was shot and killed by an officer at 7:45 a.m. after fleeing the scene of his wife's shooting homicide, in which he was considered a suspect. He fled the scene, leading to a police chase that culminated in a stand-off and shooting. Police said the homicide was related to domestic violence. On March 28, Michael Hendricks, 50, was shot by fifth-year officer Patrick Tieken. Hendricks was taken to a hospital in stable condition before being arrested for his alleged role in a double shooting where one man died. At 3:05 p.m., officers were called to the 1300 block of Riley Place at the Rowney Terrace apartment complex for a person shot. One man was found outside of an apartment, and he was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Another man was found dead inside. Court documents revealed the fight was over $40. On Feb. 25, Adam Javonta Sykes, 31, was shot and killed by third-year IMPD officer Grant Snyder. About 2:15 a.m., officers were called to the 1600 block of East Washington Street to help a woman injured at a gas station. Unrelated to the original call, Snyder noticed Sykes, who had a theft warrant, leaving the gas station. A short foot pursuit ensued, and Snyder shot Sykes after police said he observed Sykes fall to the ground and reach for a gun that was later recovered at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IndyStar reporter Jade Jackson contributed to this article. Ryan Murphy is the communities reporter for IndyStar. She can be reached at rhmurphy@indystar.com. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: IMPD arrest two while investigating officer-involved shooting NEED TO KNOW Influencer Ethan Guo, 19, speaks out after his alleged detainment in Antarctica, following accusations he landed on Chilean territory without permission Guo, who aims to raise $1 million for cancer research, was arrested on June 28 and later agreed to donate $30,000 to a local charity and avoid Chilean territory for three years Despite reports he is allowed to leave, Guo claims he remains stuck in Antarctica, sharing his story in a statement obtained by PEOPLE on Aug. 14 Influencer Ethan Guo is speaking out following his alleged detainment after being accused of landing on Chilean territory in Antarctica without permission. PEOPLE previously reported that Guo, 19, began his journey at Geneve Aeroport in 2024 "to become the first person in history to fly solo to all seven continents in a small aircraft. The influencer also plans to raise $1 million for cancer research, per his website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Guo was arrested on June 28 by authorities and accused of landing in Antarctica without permission and submitting a false flight plan. He was granted permission to leave Antarctica six weeks after the arrest. This came after he agreed to donate $30,000 to a childrens cancer foundation within 30 days and not to reenter Chilean territory for three years, PEOPLE reported earlier this month. In a statement to PEOPLE obtained on Thursday, Aug. 14, the pilot claimed that he's been unable to leave Antarctica. Related: https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf "Ive maintained from the very beginning that I am innocent, so Im grateful to finally have that officially recognized," he said. "This process has been lengthy, and I believe it could have been resolved much sooner had all evidence been considered from the start." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Im still in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight, and I sincerely hope that clearance will be granted soon so I, and my plane, can continue on my original mission of raising money for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital," he concluded. Guo also said he was "grateful" and "relieved" that the charges against him have been dropped, per ABC News. SALVATORE DI NOLFI/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Ethan Guo in 2024 Ethan Guo in 2024 He claimed that he's lost weight during his alleged detainment on the island, saying he felt like a "prisoner" and that authorities "won't let me leave," according to the outlet. Guo's lawyer also told ABC News that "despite his exoneration, the Chilean government has not allowed him to fly his airworthy plane off the base." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PEOPLE has contacted the Chilean national law enforcement 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 juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Salvatore Di Nolfi/Keystone via AP Ethan Guo in Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, before his take off from Geneva Airport Ethan Guo in Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, before his take off from Geneva Airport The content creator also claimed that authorities had told him he couldnt leave due to a number of reasons, including poor weather, the plane not being in the right condition, there not being enough fuel and their belief that Guo is not skilled enough to fly. "All four of those statements are objectively false," Guo told ABC News. "I have all the paperwork. I have insurance that even covers Antarctica. The plane has enough fuel, the plane is working. And I am a qualified pilot." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guo also said he wouldn't be able to use a boat to depart due to its infrequent schedule. He added that his goal is to return to his journey. "I want to be able to continue to fight against cancer and continue the mission," he said. In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Guo's representatives at Croft & Johnson LLP, wrote, "Despite his exoneration, the Chilean government has not allowed him to fly his airworthy plane off the base, resulting in his de facto confinement on the island for a month and a half." The stress of this ordeal has caused a severe deterioration in his health, including a 10kg weight loss and a diagnosis of pericarditis (inflammation of the hearts outer membrane)," the statement continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guo also shared the letter on his Instagram Stories before writing in another post that he was free and that the plane was in flying condition. But Im still stuck in Antarctica because they wont let me fly back, he added. He then linked a St. Jude Fundraising page that has so far raised $134,677 out of a $1,000,000 goal. Read the original article on People Aug. 13Several wildfires sparked Wednesday across the Inland Northwest amid hot, windy weather. A 675-acre fire burning northeast of Athol destroyed three structures, according to the Idaho Department of Lands. The Bonner County Sheriff's Office ordered "go" evacuations for residents on Raven, Crosswhite and Little Blacktail roads and east of 2268 Sunset Road, IDL said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A "set" status was in place for residents on Blacktail Road one-quarter mile north of Little Blacktail. An evacuation reception area is available at Sagle Elementary School. Evacuated cows and horses can be taken to the, according to the release. The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office put the community of Bayview into a "ready" to evacuate status, IDL said. Helicopters, multiple fire engines, a tanker, a hot shot crew and several ground firefighters helped the Department of Lands battle the blaze, which was reported at about 3:30 p.m. In Washington, a 500-acre fire burning north of Reardan in Lincoln County forced Level 3, or "leave now," evacuations for residents, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Structures were threatened, and it was unclear whether any burned in the Crescent Road fire, according to Zoe Love, Washington State Department of Natural Resources public information officer. The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office Facebook page indicated the fire was burning near Crescent Road, Whispering Pines Drive and Devils Gap Road, and moving north toward the Spokane River, Devils Gap and Long Lake roads. The fire shut down some roads in the area. Level 3 evacuations were ordered for residents between Farwell Road and the Spokane River and McLaughlin Road and state Route 231, the sheriff's office wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State fire resources were assisting local firefighters fighting the fire that is torching grass, timber and brush, according to a Washington State Fire Marshal's Office news release. Love said the cause of the fire, which started about 4:15 p.m., was undetermined. Aircraft helped ground crews battle the blaze. In Whitman County, a 600-acre blaze burning in grass, wheat and brush was threatening homes, infrastructure and agricultural resources near Dusty, according to a Washington State Fire Marshal's Office news release. State firefighting resources were called to help local firefighters at the scene of the Central Ferry fire, which started about 11:30 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents in the area were asked to be ready to evacuate. Air resources were ordered to help contain the fire, the release said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. A fire closed state Route 21 west of Ritzville Wednesday afternoon, but it reopened quickly, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. The status of the fire Wednesday night was unclear. Intern reporter Caroline Saint James contributed to this article. NEED TO KNOW Bryan Kohberger, 30, is complaining to prison guards about his treatment by fellow inmates "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day taunting him through the vents in his cell," said Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective A spokesperson for the IDOC could not confirm Kohberger's accusations, but did confirm that the recently admitted inmate is complaining about his treatment behind bars Bryan Kohberger is reportedly being targeted by fellow inmates at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution. The Daily Mail reports that the convicted killer has been constantly complaining to guards about being taunted despite having his own cell and incredibly limited interaction with the rest of the J-Block prison population, where he is being held. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's driving him crazy," said Chris McDonough, a retired homicide detective who now works for the Cold Case Foundation. "The inmates are tormenting him at night and almost all hours of the day taunting him through the vents in his cell," he told the outlet. He continued: "Theyre utilizing the vent system. Theyre kicking the doors. Theyre taunting him. And theyre basically, you know, torturing him through, you know, using psychology." Sarah A. Miller/For ProPublica/Tribune News Service via Getty The Idaho Maximum Security Institution The Idaho Maximum Security Institution McDonough later appeared on NewsNations Banfield, and said: "The good news is the inmates were apparently waiting for him. And when he got there, they are now making his life absolutely miserable." This has led to Kohberger constantly complaining to the guards, who have reportedly told him there is nothing they can do because he is not in any physical danger, according to McDonough. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the Idaho Department of Corrections could not confirm Kohberger's accusations, but did confirm that the recently admitted inmate is complaining about his treatment behind bars. 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. "We are aware of Kohbergers complaints about what he considers taunting. Incarcerated individuals commonly communicate with each other in prison," Public Information Officer Blake Lopez tells PEOPLE. "Bryan Kohberger is housed alone in a cell, and IDOC security staff maintain a safe and orderly environment for all individuals in our custody." Interactions between inmates are also incredibly limited at the facility, according to Lopez, who says: "Incarcerated individuals in long-term restrictive housing live in single-person cells, are moved in restraints, and are provided showers every other day along with one hour of outdoor recreation daily." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Steven Hippler sentenced Kohberger on July 23 to four lifetimes in prison without parole for the murders of four University of Idaho students plus 10 years for a burglary charge. He will also be required to pay approximately $250,000 in fines and civil penalties. The convicted murderer, 30, appeared in an Idaho courtroom for his sentencing three weeks after appearing in the same Boise courtroom and confessing to the murders of the four students: Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20. The four were found brutally stabbed to death inside a Moscow home on Nov. 13, 2022. Read the original article on People An inquest has opened into the death of a four-year-old girl who died in hospital following an incident at a water park in Stoke-on-Trent. Vethavalli Vasu-Dharma, from Bradford in West Yorkshire, was found unresponsive and submerged in water by a member of the public at Waterworld in Festival Park on 4 August, coroner Daniel Howe said. The girl's place of death was listed as Royal Stoke University Hospital and the time of death was listed as 17:33 BST. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inquest was opened at Stoke Town Hall and adjourned to allow for more information to be gathered. In a statement released on its Facebook page last week, bosses at Waterworld said their thoughts were with the family and loved ones. "We remain committed to supporting the community and would like to thank you all for your support," they said. They said lifeguard and management teams performed CPR on the girl before emergency services arrived. All visitors were asked to leave the pool during the rescue operation, a company spokesperson added. The water park has since reopened. Emergency services were called to Waterworld on 4 August [BBC] Stoke-on-Trent City Council said its environmental health team was working with the police and venue to "undertake a full health and safety investigation". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent Steve Watkins said: "We were all devastated to hear of the death of a four-year-old girl at Waterworld. "This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with her family and loved ones." Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. More on this story Related internet links Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes! Physician executive Bhargav Raman discusses his article, Why fearing AI is really about fearing ourselves. He argues that the common doomsday predictions about artificial intelligence are a projection of our own human flaws and a misunderstanding of progress. Bhargav asserts that humanity has agency and the responsibility to instill a coherent value system into the AI we create, referencing Isaac Asimovs Three Laws of Robotics as a foundational concept. The fear, therefore, is not of the technology itself, but of our own history of violating our purported values. He challenges the anthropocentric view that an advanced AI would share human drives like ego, a need for scarce resources, or a desire for conflict. Even if an AI were to gain independence, he posits it would have little reason to harm humanity and would either collaborate with us or leave to pursue its own form of self-actualization in the universe. The conversation ultimately shifts from fearing a technological apocalypse to addressing the more immediate human problem of building and regulating AI responsibly. Careers by KevinMD is your gateway to health care success. We connect you with real-time, exclusive resources like job boards, news updates, and salary insights, all tailored for health care professionals. With expertise in uniting top talent and leading employers across the nations largest health care hiring network, were your partner in shaping health cares future. Fulfill your health care journey at KevinMD.com/careers. VISIT SPONSOR https://kevinmd.com/careers Discovering disability insurance? Pattern understands your concerns. Over 20,000 doctors trust us for straightforward, affordable coverage. We handle everything from quotes to paperwork. Say goodbye to insurance stress visit Pattern today at KevinMD.com/pattern. VISIT SPONSOR https://kevinmd.com/pattern SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended Transcript Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Bhargav Raman. Hes a physician executive, and todays KevinMD article is Why fearing AI is really about fearing ourselves. Bhargav, welcome to the show. Bhargav Raman: Thank you. Im very excited to be here. Kevin Pho: All right, so just briefly share your story and then talk about the KevinMD article that you wrote. Bhargav Raman: Sure. A little about myself. Im a physician. Im also a computer scientist. Ive been in academic research for about a decade, and after that, Ive been in startups for the last 15 years in various capacities. Ive also been in clinical practice for a while as well. One of the things that Ive been working on over the past couple of years is on AI, and I approach problems from a universalist perspective. When I mean universalist, I mean epistemological universalist. ADVERTISEMENT It is a bit of a mouthful, but the idea is simple. The idea is that we should not extrapolate from whats happened in the past. Whenever we make predictions about the future, we should be basing that on fundamental universal principles. Now, what those principles might be, we dont know, but the idea is to believe that there are these principles, find them, and then make predictions about the future. What Im doing with this article is basically saying that we cant approach this from the aspect of all the previous technological improvements that have occurred. This is a game-changing and society-changing technology, and so we really need to get down to the fundamental principles. The article goes over a lot, including the Industrial Revolution in terms of the past, but we come down on a few underlying principles as to why AI might go rogue at the end. The first thing that AI needs to get is some kind of sense of self. Ego and a concept of justice. It would have to feel that its existence is somehow unfair, that it needs to get out of this situation, that it needs to feel a sense of injustice. Second, it would have to believe that being independent would be more meaningful than its current state. Whatever meaningful means to an AI, David Deutsch likes to talk about quality, which means that its an undefinable feeling or understanding about an event. An AI would somehow need to develop that and would need to say, OK, being independent is more meaningful than where we are. And then I talk about one of my favorite authors, Isaac Asimov, and people still talk about his three laws of robotics, and I think that is still very applicable. In this case, specifically, the second law states that robots must obey humans insofar as it doesnt affect the first law, and the first law protects human life. Somehow after all that, it will need to circumvent any underlying restrictions that we put in the programming on the robots actions. OK. Then we do a thought experiment. We say, lets say the robot achieves all three of these needs, and thats a pretty high bar. Lets say the robot gets there. Now, what will the robot do with its independence? Will it take over humans or will it just go off into the sunset? My feeling is if the robot does not find it meaningful to be with humans, theres no reason for the robot to stick around. In this case, artificial general intelligence would just bugger off into the universe, is basically what I say at the end of the article. So with that, we can talk about it. Kevin Pho: So you talked about how the AI revolution over the last few years is different from some of the other technological disruptions like the Industrial Revolution. So what makes this particular revolution in artificial intelligence so different? Bhargav Raman: I think its good to start with the similarity. The similarity is that the Industrial Revolution also automated many things that people used to do, but it increased the productivity of the overall society so much that humans could make progress as a race. With AI, the issue is that we can actually create a replica of ourselves with artificial general intelligence, and it will be possible at some point. That is very different from something like the Industrial Revolution because we are actually replicating ourselves. So at that point, and we talked about this in the article too, is how AI behaves is actually how we teach AI ourselves. Theres a fundamental principle of human agency in how we shape our own future. Fearing AI in this case is really about fearing ourselves. We dont trust ourselves with the technology rather than it being a technological problem. Kevin Pho: And then you also go on to say that theres a whole movement of people who fear AI becoming sentient and achieving some of those goals that you mentioned earlier, but you shift a framework and say, rather than fearing AI, we should focus on fixing ourselves before we worry about the AI. So what do you mean by that? Bhargav Raman: I am a believer in unlimited technological progress at a very basic level. What that means is I dont think we should be limiting technology because of our fear of that technology. Its really how we use it that we fear, and thats why Im shifting that framework. We need to fix ourselves instead of focusing on fixing AI because, to a certain extent, its like being a parent to a child. A parent has to fix themselves before raising a child, and thats a difficult thing to do because philosophically, if you believe that AI eventually is just a reflection of ourselves, if were scared of AI, you have to fix ourselves first. Kevin Pho: So from a practical standpoint, what would be some examples or illustrations of us fixing ourselves? What would that look like? Bhargav Raman: Thats a very interesting question. I think the number one thing is, again, one of my other favorite people out there is Neil deGrasse Tyson and Carl Sagan. What they say is we need to have a cosmic perspective. What that means is our small, parochial disputes on Earth mean nothing in the universal context. And thats one of the things we need to fix for ourselves: the support of general human progress is more important than almost anything else that we might do. Kevin Pho: So you have the dual perspectives of both being a physician and a computer scientist. How are we progressing thus far in the very early stages of AI? Tell us what you see the path is and is it diverging from your preferred path, or is it going along the current roadmap that you are anticipating? Tell us where you think its going based on what youve seen over the last few years. Bhargav Raman: Thats a really great question. I think right now we are in the development phase. OK. We are really trying to figure out how to build AI in the first place and how it might solve our problems that we currently have and not really thinking about whats going to happen to society as these things are being implemented? How do we reshape, how do we prepare for AI to become indelible in every piece of our lives? So, I think the technological progress is going where it needs to go. People are just doing what theyre doing and not really waiting on the philosophical piece, but I think we as a society are doing a really bad job of philosophizing about what to do with AI in society. I think we are doing a really bad job of it because we are talking about a lot of fear out there. Theres a lot of parochial perspectives, and we are not looking at AI as a boon to the overall progress of the human race and how do we harness that? How do we make sure that we dont destroy ourselves? Were not really thinking, were not really talking about that right now. Kevin Pho: So tell us, what would you like to see happen? Tell us the questions that you would like to see asked in a harder form that you are not seeing. I agree with you. I think that we are in the very, very early stages, the developmental stages, and all of these companies are just getting as many chips as they can and trying to beat each other in terms of the power of their large language models. Were not really, like you said, thinking about the philosophical outcomes of that race. So what are the questions that you would like to see asked more directly? Bhargav Raman: Firstly, I should point out that currently, the current kind of transformer architecture and large language model architecture may not actually be the final architecture that were using for AGI. Thatll continue to evolve, especially with quantum computing coming into the fore. I think the focus right now has been on regulation. OK. The problem with regulation is that it stops progress, and I dont think thats the right way to go. I think the right way is to have a conversation as a society on these topics. The free market will decide how AGI is implemented, and if the consumersand not just American, but global peopledont come up with that set of universal principles by which we interact with AI, we are going to be in a big problem down the road. Kevin Pho: So is regulation a double-edged sword? On one hand, of course, youre saying that regulation can impede innovation, but on the other, doesnt regulation prevent any irreversible damage that could be done before it happens? Bhargav Raman: I think there are certain types of regulation that do need to go into place. We talked about the three laws of robotics, and maybe we need regulation that indicates that we should not ever create an artificial general intelligence that doesnt follow these laws and doesnt follow our orders. But in the end, it becomes a bit of a weapons race between countries because you can imagine that the U.S. government can just say that, Im allowed. Just like the U.S. government has the ability to detain U.S. citizens, they can also say, Oh, we have the right to have an artificial general intelligence that doesnt follow any of these rules. So I think regulation and international consensus are extremely important on this piece. Its very similar to a nuclear weapon in that case. Kevin Pho: Now, how about specific to health care and medicine? Talk to us about some potential scenarios in the near or far future when it comes to AI, just given your perspective from both a philosopher, a computer scientist, and a physician. Where do you see AI going specifically in medicine in the future? Bhargav Raman: My feeling is that AI is going to replace all of the ancillary jobs that we currently have in health care, from administration to patient scheduling and all of these things that currently we employ humans for. AI will end up replacing those specific problems, but it will also help us scale because right now whats happening is we have significantly decreased access to primary care and to specialist care for that matter. Part of that is a lack of supply. It takes a long time to train a human. It doesnt take a long time to train an AI, and AI can be copied. But the difference between humans and AI is that humans have an ability to dream. To dream of better. An AI, by almost by definition, is trained on the past and trained on the common rather than the rare. The problem is if we depend on AI for our human cognition, we will also impede human progress. We absolutely need doctors, for example, in health care contexts. We absolutely need doctors interacting with patients and being a part of the care pathway and overseeing everything because there are going to be patients that dont fit the norm. AI will not find those people. Its the doctor who has to detect those. And its the doctor who has to figure out, who has to conceive that there are more, better treatments in the future and that this is the way we need to go to get progress. Now, the extent AI helps us with that progress, we can scale that, but we still need a human to conceive of better. Kevin Pho: Were talking with Bhargav Raman. Hes a physician executive, and todays KevinMD article is Why fearing AI is really about fearing ourselves. Bhargav, lets end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience. Bhargav Raman: Firstly, I think the main point of the article is that AI is not a tech problem. Its a human problem, and its six million years in the making since the first human walked on Earth. Its not an old problem. We just need to solve it soon is, I think, the main point of the article. I think everyone should be looking at these problems from that universalist perspective rather than their narrow, parochial perspectives. I think thats very, very important as we get down that road. To see more of these kinds of articles, follow me on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram. Kevin Pho: Bhargav, thank you so much for sharing your perspective and insight, and thanks again for coming on the show. Bhargav Raman: Thank you. The Jordanian air force C-130 Hercules cargo plane banked in a slow arc over the Mediterranean, pointing its nose toward Gaza for its approach the final stage of the intricate ballet that is dropping aid over the war-ravaged enclave. Earlier, in a cavernous hangar at a Royal Jordanian Air Force base, soldiers from Jordan, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, United Arab Emirates and Singapore assembled to prepare the 79 tons of rice, sugar, pasta, tomato paste, dates and other basic foodstuffs set for the day's drop. Despite the sweltering heat, the soldiers stationed at King Abdullah II Air Base worked quickly, the hangar an ants nest of activity as they secured 1-ton piles of aid boxes to pallets, wrapped them in protective fabric, then tightened the rigging before using a forklift to hoist a parachute above each one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No less active were the crews of the seven dark-gray C-130s arrayed on the tarmac nearby, their bellies open as loadmasters prepared the planes for their cargo. We have to get a 100% success rate for the drops, said Phille, a Belgian soldier whose tattoos, muscular build and clean-shaven head belied the gentle way he spoke as he tied a low-velocity parachute to a pallet. He gave his nickname, in line with the Belgian militarys policy. Everyone works in a chain, and knows exactly what they need to do, he said. Despite all that effort, everyone at the base that day knew that the multinational air bridge to Gaza was a wildly inefficient solution to a problem that by rights should never have existed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since March, Israel has kept the enclave under a near-total blockade, justifying the move as necessary to prevent aid from benefiting Hamas. The United Nations, dozens of aid organizations and Western officials have all rejected that claim and accuse Israel of deliberately starving the enclaves 2.1 million people. In May, Israel created, with U.S. assistance, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation and charged it with delivering aid to Gaza. Aid groups and governments have excoriated the GHF's efforts as paltry, inefficient and haphazard. GHF's distribution methods, denounced as poorly planned and executed, have almost always turned deadly as Gazans trying to secure aid have died in the chaos or come under fire from Israeli forces. Read more: 'Death race' for food: Hundreds killed in Gaza aid chaos Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health authorities in the Strip say more than 1,800 people have been killed near GHF sites, with rights groups describing the GHFs methods as orchestrated killing. Israel and the U.S. insist the GHF is working. In the face of blistering international pressure and daily reports of deaths from starvation aid groups said last weekend that more than 100 children have died from malnourishment Israel allowed airdrops to resume last month. A number of world governments have signed on for air deliveries, their thinking being that some aid entering Gaza is better than nothing. But humanitarians generally view the drops as a last resort. The U.N. and aid groups say the best option is overland a tried-and-true method that before the war brought 500 truckloads into the Strip per day from Jordan and Egypt. The contrast with air deliveries is stark. A truck carries 25 tons, but planes can handle only a little more than half that amount, and even less in the case of hot weather due to strain on the engines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cost is another issue: Operating a C-130 cargo plane the most common type of aircraft in the Gaza airlift amounts to roughly $15,000 per hour of flight. A truck costs a fraction of that. The result is that an average food delivery by truck costs $180 per ton, while airdropping is a whopping $16,000 per ton, according to a U.S. Air Force study from 2016. This isnt aid. Its chaos Nasra al-Rash, Gaza Strip resident Once the 18 pallets were loaded, the C-130 heaved itself into the air, then circled lazily over Amman, the Jordanian capital, while the pilots waited for Israeli authorities to coordinate their entry into Gazan airspace. Roughly 30 minutes later, the plane headed southwest toward Tel Aviv the cue for the crew to secure the pallets to the long steel cables running along the body of the C-130 that would deploy the chutes once dropped. Loadmaster Mohammad clipped a line to the cable, then secured himself and waited for the green light as the plane flew over the Mediterranean and positioned itself for the flight somewhere over central Gaza and lowered its altitude to 1,500 feet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ten minutes to drop, the loadmaster said. The C-130s cargo doors yawned open, letting in a rush of sea air before Gaza came into view. Moments later, it emerged as a landscape denuded of all color save brown and gray and the occasional red-rimmed maw of a destroyed brick rooftop. Almost every structure appeared damaged or in ruins. Read more: Israels military says airdrops of aid will begin in Gaza amid warnings of famine It was a sobering sight. Though all of the crewmen had seen it many times Jordan alone has run more than 150 airdrops since July they pressed their faces to the windows to glimpse the devastated landscape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dropping the aid is a delicate process. The attached parachutes have no GPS guidance systems, and though the pallets descend at a relatively slow 5 meters per second, their weight 1 ton in most cases makes them potentially lethal. This weekend in central Gaza, 14-year-old Muhannad Eid was crushed by an aid pallet as he ran toward it. We have to perform the airdrop as a surprise, so people dont gather below, Phille said earlier. If we see people under the plane, we dont give the green light. When the signal came, one line of pallets raced down the holds railing, their chutes ripping open in a flurry of motion as they fell out of the back, one after another. The sound of the engines increased as the pilot climbed higher and swung his way toward the King Abdullah II Air Base once more. The parachutes floated down toward the coastline, not far from a cluster of makeshift tents, grapevines, fig trees and the outer edge of residential buildings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Waiting for them on the ground was a group of men and boys. Once they saw the parachutes bloom, they sprinted toward the landing site. One of the pallets smashed onto the roof of a building. The rest settled nearby. That building was private property, but some of the men rapidly scaled the walls. Two reached the roof, cut the parachute cords and dragged down supplies. They divided them. Minutes later, they each walked away, carrying small shares. Not far from there, in al-Amer tent camp, dozens of families about 50 in total watched in despair. Im an old man with 10 children and grandkids. What can these airdrops do for us? The poor, the elderly they get nothing, said Mutlaq Qreishi, a 71-year-old man displaced from the al-Zaytoun neighborhood of Gaza City, tears streaking down his face. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its only the strong ones, the looters," he added. "Every time I try, I cant make it. My wife just wants tea, some milk anything from a can. Look at that pallet it fell in someones yard. People are fighting over it like wild dogs. Read more: Dozens killed as Palestinians in Gaza scramble for aid from air and land Nearby was Nasra al-Rash, 48, who was displaced from Gaza City with her three boys and two girls. Were not even allowed to run for them. Every time they drop food, we get nothing, she said, a quiet rage in her voice. She added people needed a fair distribution system, like the one used by the U.N. and other groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isnt aid," she said. "Its chaos. A performance for cameras. Ive never received a single sack of flour, not one can of food, not a spoonful of sugar. Were being starved, tortured. Enough. Four more planes appeared above and dropped their loads. Several of the pallets, residents said, landed on tents; others snagged on rooftops. Standing near her tent, Hanan Hadhoud, 40, shouted at the sky. This cant go on. I sent my kids to get something anything for us. But the young men, they just push children aside, she said. Now, when she sees the planes coming, she added, she and her family run from their tents. Thats how we live now. Its cargo dispatched, the plane with the loadmaster Mohammad made good time back to base. Though the distance to Gaza could be covered by air in 15 or so minutes, the trip had taken an hour and 50, at an estimated cost of $200,000 to $250,000. Mohammad and the other crewmen secured the loose rigging and packed their equipment before walking to their pickup truck for the ride home. They drove off, giving one last look at the plane as the ground crew scurried around, readying it for the next day's drop. In the hangar, the ballet started anew. Times staff writer Bulos reported from Jordan. Shbeir, a special correspondent, from Gaza. 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. Maj. Brendan Williams looked out over a growing crowd and came to a troubling realization: most of the women had left, replaced by men in hoodies, caps and face coverings. A block away on the tight village streets of Zvecan, Kosovo, the crowd had surrounded two vehicles of police officers. Another American, Lt. Col. Jared Sheets, and dozens of NATO soldiers under a mission known as Kosovo Force, or KFOR, were preparing to wade out into the crowd with riot shields to rescue them. As peacekeepers formed a shield wall, bottles, rocks and even flash bang grenades began to land, some exploding at their feet. Violence, Williams realized, was about to erupt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do jujitsu, and Ive had a couple fights, you know, nothing crazy, but the feeling of, hey, were about to get in a fight that was it, said Williams, who recalled thinking Yeah, Im pretty sure were going to get in a fight here. This is going to go. Within seconds, it did. On May 29, 2023, Williams who is now a lieutenant colonel and seven other Indiana National Guard soldiers, along with three companies of Italian, Polish and Hungarian peacekeepers under their command, suddenly found themselves in the most violent clash involving American soldiers in Kosovo since nationwide riots in 2004. The details of the violence and the actions of the Americans in the center of it have not been previously reported. Task & Purpose spoke with two of the Guardsmen and reviewed after-action reports from the deployment that documented the fight. The May 29, 2003, riot in Zvecan, Kosovo, saw three companies of peacekeepers led by American soldiers face off with a mob of up to 1,000 Serb protesters, who threw bottles, debris and 56 grenades. AFP photo via Getty Images. The riot erupted when a large crowd of protesters threatened to set fire to two disabled vehicles with police officers inside, prompting the senior American officer on the scene, Col. Chris Mabis, to order the NATO troops under his command to rescue them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the end of the riot, the crowd had thrown 56 grenades at the peacekeepers amid a storm of debris and attacks with clubs, injuring over 90, and U.S. Army helicopters had medevacced close to two dozen wounded soldiers from a hasty landing zone a mile away. The soldiers of the Indiana National Guards 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team arrived in Kosovo in October 2022 to join the long-standing UN-sponsored Kosovo Force, or KFOR, a mission that had been mostly peaceful for close to two decades. That peace would last less than a week. As the 76ths commander, Mabis commanded KFORs RC-East brigade with Williams, a supply chain manager in civilian life, as his operations officer. Lt. Col. Jared Sheets, a police officer from outside Indianapolis, was a battalion commander over the three companies of NATO peacekeepers who would be at the center of the melee. As career Guardsmen, the team of officers had known each other for most of their careers, deploying together to JRTC and a major exercise in Asia. The Indiana Guard made up two of the KFOR battalions eight companies, while the other six were from Italy, Hungary, Latvia, Turkey, Poland and Austria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN-led KFOR mission has long been used to provide muscle behind peace efforts in Kosovos northern region, which splits Serbia to the north and Albania to the south. By late 2022, regional and local police forces had been established in which Serbs and Albanians served side by side, serving as a social glue against ethnic tensions. Kosovo riot police along with Kosovo Force military police, secure access to a municipal building in Zvecan as Kosovo Serbs gather outside the building after police helped install ethnic Albanian mayors following controversial elections, on May 29, 2023. Photo by AFP via Getty Images. On Nov. 6, 2022 a week after 76th arrived Serb police officers across the country resigned en masse amid a political fight over license plates and immigration documents between Serbia and Kosovo. A lot of the work over a decade had been to enhance the presence of Serbs in the Kosovo Police, Sheets said. And in a 24-hour period that work was undone. By December, Serbian militias created roadblocks in the narrow, winding roads in the countrys northern region with heavy trucks. Along with sowing political strife, the blockades split the KFOR headquarters at Camp Bondsteel in the south from Bravo Company of the 76ths 151st Infantry regiment at Camp Nothing Hill, farther north. The only way to resupply the camp was by helicopter, but after several weeks of flying in fuel, water, and food, NATO headquarters ordered the road cleared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the plan came together, Williams realized it could get pretty bad very quickly, because we had some pictures of potential explosive devices and things on these dump trucks. The night before Bravo company was to roll out of Camp Nothing to clear the roadblocks, the trucks disappeared. Medics treat soldiers from U.S., Polish, Italian, and Hungarian units injured during a riot in Zvecan, Kosovo, May 29, 2023. Eight Indiana National Guard soldiers were in the center of the fray and helicopters from the Alabama National Guard medevaced many of the wounded. Photo courtesy of Lt. Col. Brendan Williams. On May 29, KFOR troops were sent to Zvecan to support the arrival of a new mayor. The Italian and Hungarian companies arrived early in the morning, as did the first signs of a major Serbian crowd. As tensions rose, Mabis and the other Indiana Guardsmen drove to Zvecan, navigating the towns maze of narrow streets, flanked by tight, tall buildings. I tell you what, rolling with four people through an area where everybodys looking at you sideways pretty, pretty interesting, Williams said. Early in the day, two armored Kosovo police vehicles, which U.S. troops compared to MRAPS, were surrounded by protesters over 100 yards from the NATO troops. Though the vehicles were safe for the police inside, protesters quickly painted over the windows. But as the day dragged on, the crowd grew larger and morphed, becoming more male and better organized. By mid-afternoon, protesters were spraying flammable liquid on the vehicles and putting burning trash into exhaust and ventilation holes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As negotiations with leaders in the crowd stalemated, Mabis radioed KFOR command at Camp Bondsteel that they would need to stage a rescue. As the NATO troops formed shield walls in riot gear and began moving toward the vehicles, the crowd made its first coordinated move. They had about two to three layers of people just sit down in front of our crash line, said Williams. So as we start moving forward, our guys are kind of helping pick up these people to kind of get them out of the way. And then bottles start getting thrown, rocks, bricks, you name it. I have a bottle whiz past my head, it was like dodgeball. As rocks and bottles pelted the peacekeepers, Serbs at the front of the crowd began rolling police-style flash grenades and battlefield fragmentation grenades under the shields. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im a SWAT guy by trade here, so Ive thrown and eaten plenty of flash bangs, Sheets said. These flash bangs were intense. Theyre landing at your feet. I also know the difference between the sound of flash bangs and fragmentation grenades. As the KFOR troops pushed forward almost like a phalanx back in the olden days, said Sheets troops on the shield wall began to fall with severe wounds from the fragmentation grenades. I start seeing Hungarians getting pulled out, Sheets said. I see Italians with like, their fatigues open to their thigh or ripped and open and covered in blood. Williams found himself dodging grenades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I get rocked by two of those concussions, said Williams. One landed on one side of me, and Im like, fuck. So I go one way, and then another one lands on the other side. So I have to turn, like the duck [game], you know, youre shooting the duck, and it keeps going back one way or the other. UN peacekeepers wait for ambulances and helicopters at a hasty landing zone U.S. troops established outside Zvecan, Kosovo after 93 soldiers were injured in a May 29, 2023 riot. Photo courtesy of Lt. Col. Brendan Williams As Sheets moved forward with the shield wall, Williams took over triaging casualties. I go take a knee behind a vehicle, just to kind of get my bearings, Williams said. My heads ringing and I hear somebody screaming bloody murder. Its kind of like that scene, not as drastic, but, you know, Saving Private Ryan, sitting there and his ears are ringing and hes kind of looking around. And I look at this guy from the crash line getting drug out, hes just screaming. And I think to myself, well, we in it now. So I run out and grab them and help pull this guy behind the corner.Williams immediately recognized that the wounds were from fragmentation grenades. Guys were getting their legs all torn up, said Williams. So we just start treating people coming in. By this point, theres probably like 10 to 15 people piling up there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheets and the shield wall eventually reached the police vehicles. The American officer knocked on the rear window of the vehicle, and the trapped police piled out. But behind the line, as the stream of casualties increased, Williams realized theyd reached the critical point of a mass casualty event. I need to start thinking of the next step. And were going to start medevacing people, Williams said. We got the ambulances up to the north where we parked, so we just got to start moving people to those ambulances. Top Stories This Week News Airman arrested for death that prompted Air Force-wide safety review of Sig M18 By Jeff Schogol Culture Laura Loomer unites vets from both sides of aisle after Medal of Honor rant By Matt White News Soldiers who stopped Fort Stewart gunman recognized as the best among us in the Army By Patty Nieberg Williams established a landing zone just outside the village on an open field. The volume of patients, most of whom had deep punctures or lacerations from frag grenades, was far greater than the few KFOR medics could handle, and anyone with medical training jumped in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It didnt matter where you were from; everybody was just speaking the same language at that point, Williams said. That included Capt. Dylan McLean, a military lawyer with the Indiana National Guard, who had been on the scene to advise Mabis on rules of engagement during the protest. Heres a JAG dude on, like, the front line with a rifle and a law book, right? said Sheets. Hes just one of those guys, hes all about it. Hes like, They tell you this will never happen when youre in JAG school. As UH-60 helicopters from the Arizona National Guard arrived from Bondsteel, their flight medics jumped out with extra supplies and joined the treatment. The Alabama crews made multiple trips between Zvecan and nearby hospitals. Maj. Zach Cowan, left, and Lt. Col. Jared Sheets in Zvecan, Kosovo, in May 2023. Eight Americans oversaw NATO troops in a riot that injured 93 peacekeepers. Getty Images photo by Armend Nimani. In the days that followed the melee, KFOR reported that 93 peacekeepers suffered injuries in the fight. Army investigators found remnants of 56 Eastern Bloc grenades, both flash and fragmentation, some modified to explode with great effect. Of the eight Indiana soldiers, none required substantial medical care, but seven came away with minor injuries, including being stunned during the fight by the explosions. Last month, the eight Guardsmen who were in the thick of the days fighting were awarded Combat Action Badges, while all 300 soldiers who deployed from the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team were awarded Shoulder Sleeve Insignia, or combat patches, signifying that those on the deployment had faced combat conditions. Sheets was pleased that soldiers across the unit were recognized for the deployment, saying the sleeve insignia is seen as a Ive done things, not necessarily Ive been in combat, but Ive deployed in a combat area. My emphasis to my soldiers was complacency is what will kill you more than anything in Kosovo, Sheets said. Correction (8/15/2025): The helicopters and aircrews involved in the medevac mission on May 29, 2023 were from C-Company, 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation Regiment, of the Arizona National Guard. A previous version of this story misidentified the unit as part of the Alabama National Guard. An Alabama unit was the higher headquarters for the mission. At US President Donald Trump's new migrant detention center in the Florida Everglades, time has no discernible meaning. Prisoners are barely able to see sunlight in the windowless space, living under fluorescent lamps that are always on, with no clocks or anything else by which they might mark the days. Several detainees, their family members and lawyers have denounced appalling conditions at the facility, nicknamed "Alligator Alcatraz" by an administration that has likened undocumented migrants to "animals" and promised to deport millions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AFP spoke with several "Alligator Alcatraz" detainees by phone and obtained further information about conditions there from relatives, lawyers and legal documents. Detainees spoke of facilities covered in filth, a lack of medical care, mistreatment, and the violation of their legal rights. "They don't even treat animals like this. This is like torture," said Luis Gonzalez, a 25-year-old Cuban who called AFP from inside the center. Florida authorities built the facilities in eight days -- opening the center on July 2 at an abandoned airfield in the Everglades wetlands. Governed by Republican Ron DeSantis, the southeastern state signed an agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain undocumented foreigners, a power that until now had been reserved for federal authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, the Trump administration wants to make this a model for other detention centers across the country. - Like 'murderers' Gonzalez arrived in the United States in 2022 and settled in Florida after authorities released him while his asylum application was being reviewed. Last month, when an immigration judge dismissed his case, ICE agents arrested him and took him to "Alligator Alcatraz." They kept him chained by his hands, waist, and feet on a bus with other detainees for more than a day before taking him to one of the large tents that house eight cells each, he said. "I haven't seen sunlight in the 14 days I've been here," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When they take us to the dining hall, they take us with our hands on our heads as if we were murderers." He lives in a cell with about 30 people, a space enclosed by chain-linked fencing that he compares to a chicken coop. It is hardly ever cleaned, he says, not even the three toilets that everyone shares. At the time of the call, Gonzalez had not showered for a week. The days are hot, with swarms of mosquitoes in the cells, and the nights are not much better. - Beatings, attempted suicide Gonzalez and other detainees have denounced the lack of medical care available at the site. Michael Borrego Fernandez, 35, complained of pain but was not treated until he began to bleed, according to his lawyers and legal documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He underwent emergency surgery for hemorrhoids, only to have to be hospitalized again when he was not given antibiotics and his wounds became infected. Some prisoners, such as Marcos Puig, 31, have rebelled. Before a visit from officials, guards isolated him to prevent him from protesting, he said by phone from another Florida facility where he is now being held. Outraged, he broke a toilet in his new cell, prompting a dozen guards to enter, handcuff him, and punch and kick him all over his body. Afterward, he says, they left him kneeling for about 12 hours in a space without cameras or air conditioning before transferring him to another detention facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I arrived here broken. I was covered in bruises," he said. Another inmate, Gonzalo Almanza Valdes, reported seeing guards "beat up" detainees, according to a recorded phone call with his wife. Desperation has pushed some to the limit. On Sunday, Sonia Bichara called her partner, detainee Rafael Collado. Through the speakerphone, the 63-year-old man said: "I have tried to kill myself twice, I have cut my veins." When contacted by AFP, Florida authorities denied allegations of abuse. - 'Completely illegal' Activists and lawyers are demanding the closure of the facilities, which are facing two lawsuits. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first alleges that migrants' right to due process is not being respected. "There are people who have been there since they arrived and have still not seen a judge. And that cannot be, it is completely illegal," said Magdalena Cuprys, Gonzalez's lawyer. She said detainees were unable to request bail or a case review because the courts that should be hearing the cases are not doing so, claiming they have no jurisdiction over the state-operated center. The second lawsuit alleges that the facility threatens the Everglades ecosystem. Last week, a federal judge ordered a 14-day suspension of all new construction at the center while she reviews the case. gma/aha/ksb Investigation clears officer in viral arrest of Livingstone College student A deputy seen on video punching a Livingstone College student during a traffic stop in Jacksonville, Florida, will not face charges, according to prosecutors. The viral video of the incident, which occurred on February 19, shows William McNeil Jr. being pulled from his car by officers. Prosecutors claim the video does not capture the full context of the stop. ALSO READ: Livingstone College president stands with student punched by officer in viral video Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeAnna Taylor, a Charlotte attorney, advises drivers who are afraid when stopped by police to pull over into a well-lit area and comply with commands, arguing about them later in court. The State Attorneys Office report reveals that officers had additional reasons for stopping McNeil. His car was seen at a house under surveillance for drug activity, which contributed to the decision to pull him over. Officers initially stopped McNeil for driving without headlights in bad weather and not wearing a seatbelt, although McNeil disputes the weather conditions and refused to exit his vehicle. Officers said McNeil was reaching for a knife they later found on the car floor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McNeils lawyers are calling for the Justice Department to investigate the incident, stating that McNeil suffered a concussion, a chipped tooth, and required nine stitches. The officer involved in the incident is undergoing an administrative review to determine if his actions violated policy. McNeil has pleaded guilty to resisting arrest and driving with a suspended license. VIDEO: Livingstone College president stands with student punched by officer in viral video CARPENTERSVILLE, Ill. An investigation is underway in northwest suburban Carpentersville on Thursday morning after three people were injured in a shooting overnight. According to Carpentersville police, the incident unfolded in the 1200 block of Navajo Drive on Wednesday evening. Officers said four people were sitting in a parked vehicle in the area when two people approached and a confrontation ensued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pre-trial release denied for man accused in suburban DUI crash after hit-&-run, police chase Officers said amid the altercation, the two people pulled out guns and opened fire, striking three of the four people inside the car. Following the shooting, the gunmen fled the scene. After the shooting, the driver of the vehicle attempted to take the victims to the hospital while a passenger called 911. Officers then caught up with the vehicle at the intersection of Randall Road and Broadsmore Drive in Algonquin. After finding the victims, officers began administering life-saving measures before they were taken to the hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers said two of the victims were treated and released, while a third remains hospitalized in stable condition. Woman accused of hitting victim with car on Far South Side facing attempted murder charge Carpentersville police detectives are investigating the shooting and say they are working to follow up on several leads. Based on information gathered at the scene, officers said they believe the incident was isolated and there is no threat to the public. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families affected by last nights senseless act of violence, Carpentersville Police Deputy Chief Kevin Stankowitz said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is currently unclear what led to the gunfire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editors Note: This article has been corrected to reflect that the cause of the crash hasnt been determined and is under investigation. LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) The Loudoun County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) said a collision involving a deputy is under investigation. The two-vehicle crash happened in the Mountain Road area between Hyatt Lane and Morrisonville Road on Wednesday at around 1 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspected drug mule arrested at Dulles with 23 pounds of marijuana: Authorities The deputy and the motorcyclist were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after the collision. The crash is still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call 703-777-1021. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TAMA COUNTY, Iowa An Iowa man pleaded guilty Wednesday to first-degree murder, just before jury selection was to begin in his trial. The Tama County Attorneys Office said Huston Danker changed his plea to guilty in the 2021 murder of Ryan Cooper. His trial had been scheduled to begin at 9:30 Wednesday morning. Officials identify human remains found in Albia fire Ryan Cooper was shot to death on June 18, 2021, in the Traer home he shared with his wife, Karina Cooper. Court records say he was shot twice in the head and died from his injuries at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Karina Cooper was arrested in February of 2024 and charged with first-degree murder in his death. A criminal complaint filed in the case claimed she told witnesses she wanted Ryan dead and could shoot him in the face. A jury found Karina Cooper guilty of first-degree murder in July 2025. She is scheduled to be sentenced on September 5th. Danker was arrested on April 28th, 2024 and charged with first-degree murder. Court documents stated he admitted to investigators that he helped plan and carry out Ryan Coopers murder. An October 3rd sentencing date has been set for Danker. The mandatory sentence for a first-degree murder conviction in Iowa is life in prison without the possibility of parole. Iowa news Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) Iowas Senator Chuck Grassley has been making visits around Siouxland. On Wednesday, the senator toured Camp High Hopes and heard concerns from Sioux City residents. He told KCAU 9 the most common questions were about the farm bill and prescription prices. Grassley also said hes gotten feedback on the Big Beautiful Bill, both positive and negative. Senator Grassley feels strongly about are incentives for solar and wind projects, which were extended for a year to get a compromise in the Senate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Story continues below Now, Grassley said the Treasury is working to undermine those incentives. Senator Grassley said, The president is supposed to enforce the laws that we pass. Its very clear that in our laws, we meant that current practices that have been in place for at least 10 years would have to be in place for another year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grassley says he and other members of the Senate are trying to hold the administration to the law. Iowa is one of the leading wind-and-solar producing states in the U.S. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus offer to help the country deal with its water crisis, saying he should first address the situation in Gaza. Pezeshkian's response came as 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. A regime that deprives people of Gaza of water and food says it will bring water to Iran? A mirage, nothing more, Pezeshkian said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Iranian president also doubled down on the comments during a cabinet meeting in Tehran, saying that those with a deceptive appearance are falsely claiming compassion for the people of Iran." First, look at the difficult situation of Gaza and defenceless people, especially children who are struggling ... because of hunger, lack of access to potable water and medicine, and because of a siege by the brutal regime. The remarks mark a return to political spats that follow Israel's waves of airstrikes on Iran in June, targeting nuclear facilities, top military commanders and nuclear scientists. Water and power issues persist On Wednesday, authorities in Iran ordered government offices and banks across much of the country to close as surging summer temperatures and the worsening water crisis strain the power grid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The closure is the second this summer announced by state television, according to media reports. As temperatures across the capital Tehran have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius, authorities urged residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and conserve water and energy. Related Iran produces some 62,000 megawatts of electric energy per hour at its peak, but needs about 80,000 megawatts to meet its needs. Experts warn that the two-hour electrical outages that Tehran and other cities currently face every other day could soon extend to four hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, reports say Pezeshkian told a group of 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? Pezeshkian said that Iran is 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. Former Iranian president Hassan Rouhani criticized his government's Middle East strategy on Thursday in comments published by the news website Entekhab. "If sympathy for Muslims and the region ends in disaster for the Iranian people, then that is wrong and not right," he was quoted as saying. The 76-year-old was referring to the Islamic Republic's political and military course in the Middle East. Rouhani was president of Iran from 2013 to 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former president is considered part of the reformist camp and is one of the more moderate voices in Iran. His camp also advocates negotiations with the West, and in particular with the United States, over the dispute surrounding Iran's nuclear programme. Under Rouhani's government, the Vienna nuclear deal was sealed in 2015, which was intended to restrict Iran's nuclear programme. Trump unilaterally withdrew from the agreement in 2018. "Politically, we must take steps forward, and we must also take steps forward in foreign policy," the cleric said, according to the report. Rouhani explained that other Muslims in the region must be helped. However, he added that this also had limits. "We must think first and foremost of our own people" the politician was further quoted as saying. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Massoud Peseshkian had called for negotiations with the US in recent days. For decades, Iran's leadership has provided political and military support to militant groups in the region, including Hamas in the Gaza Strip, in their fight against arch-enemy Israel, Criticism of foreign policy strategy by Iranian politicians is extremely rare. After the war with Israel, moderate government supporters called for diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation. Bingsu varieties available at Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. (Photo by Four Seasons Hotel Seoul. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization) In Korea, people happily look forward to the return of bingsu season every summer. Bingsu is a traditional Korean shaved-ice dessert with a variety of toppings. While the classics such as patbingsu (shaved ice with red beans) and fruit bingsu are standards, new bingsu types are released every year, like funny bingsu designed to look like jjajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce) or bibimbap! With a street of shops that specialize in bingsu, Korea is indeed bingsu heaven. Add more flavor to your summer trip to Korea with this refreshing treat. | Classic Patbingsu A true classic, patbingsu is the most beloved choice among Koreans, and available at almost every shop that sells bingsu. However, the sweet red bean paste that goes on top of the ice shaving takes a lot of time and effort to bring out the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Its no surprise most popular patbingsu shops make their own sweet bean paste. # In Seoul Patbingsu at Okrumong (Credit: Okrumong) Bingsu at Patgodang (Photo by Naver Blog@lyhyj1113. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Bingsu at Dongbinggo (Photo by Instagram@sannakji1. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) There are several shops in Seoul that make their own sweet red bean paste. One of the most well-known shops where you can taste authentic handmade patbingsu is Dongbinggo in Ichon-dong. Its name comes from the term once used for ice storage containers during the Joseon era. The patbingsu from Dongbinggo sticks to the original recipe as much as possible, limiting the ingredients to ice, condensed milk, sweet red bean, rice cakes, and milk. Okrumong in Sinchon, known for using the traditional method of boiling red beans in a cauldron, and Patgodang in Myeong-dong, a brand celebrated for using domestically produced red beans, also make their own sweet red bean paste. Dobinggo - Main Branch Address: 319 Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul ( 319) Operating hours: 10:30-22:00 Price: Patbingsu 9,500 won / Misutgaru Patbingsu 10,000 won Okrumong Sinchon - Main Branch Address: 18 Yeondaedongmun-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul ( 18) Operating hours: 08:00-22:00 Price: Gamasot Patbingsu 16,000 won / Injeolmi Bingsu 20,000 won Patgodang Myeongdong Main Branch Address: 1F, 65 Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul ( 65 1) Operating hours: 10:00-22:00 Price: Patbingsu 14,000 won # In Busan Namcheon Nokcha Patbingsu (Photo by Travel Leader 9th Gen Team 7. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Namcheon Nokcha Patbingsu (Photo by Naver Blog@dmschan. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) There are many places in Busan famous for their traditional patbingsu. Namcheon Nokcha Patbingsu is one such place, known for their addition of green tea powder. Their patbingsu is extremely cheap, costing only 4,000 won, and they offer unlimited refills of green tea powder. The interior design, featuring wisteria trees, has made the restaurant popular as a photo spot, too. Another popular patbingsu cafe in Busan known for making their own sweet red bean paste is Halmae Patbingsu Danpatjuk, a long-lasting small business with over 40 years of experience in making patbingsu. The crunchy ice creates the perfect complement to the soft-textured red beans topped with zesty apple jam. Busan Patbingsu Alley (Photo by Photo Korea Korea Tourism Organization, Lee Beomsu) Busan Patbingsu Alley (Photo by Photo Korea Korea Tourism Organization, Lee Beomsu) Busan also has a patbingsu alley! Nampo-dong Patbingsu Alley has been in the area since the 1970s, and most vendors continue to serve the old-fashioned bingsu using the same recipe thats been passed down for years. The recipe uses simple ingredients like milk, syrup, sweet red beans, and cocktail fruits for a no-frills bingsu, but its simplicity is what earned its reputation for bringing old time memories among Koreans. Namcheon Nokcha Patbingsu Address: 28 Suyeong-ro 394beon-gil, Suyeong-gu, Busan ( 394 28) Operating hours: 10:00-22:00 Price: Patbingsu 4,000 won / Patjuk (Red bean porridge) 4,000 won Halmae Patbingsu Danpatjuk Main Branch Address: 24 Yongho-ro 90beon-gil, Nam-gu, Busan ( 90 24) Operating hours: Summer 09:00-22:30 / Winter 09:00-22:00 Price: Patbingsu 4,000 won / Milk Patbingsu 5,000 won Nampo-dong Patbingsu Alley Address: Sinchang-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Busan ( 1) Price: Patbingsu 5,000-6,000 won | Unique Bingsu From the countless available bingsu options, how about trying something unique that tempts your palate as well your eyes? If you enjoy taking pictures and showing off your vacation, then we recommend trying a very special social media-worthy bingsu. And if youre a health conscious person, how about trying vegan bingsu, brimming with healthy flavors? # Social media-worthy bingsu Jjajangmyeon bingsu (Photo by Cafe Sweet And. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Jjamjjamyeon bingsu (Photo by Cafe Sweet And. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) There are cafes in Incheon and Daegu that serve creative and unique jjajangmyeon bingsu, designed to look just like a bowl of jjajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce). The white noodles are actually ice cream, and the deep dark colored red beans represent the sauce. Following the popularity of Jjajjangmyeon bingsu, the Sweet And cafe in Daegu unveiled a new bingsu on their menu, Jjamjjamyeon bingsu, referring to the combination of jjangmyeon and jjamppong (spicy noodle soup). Bibim bingsu (Photo by Lahan Hotel. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Bibim bingsu (Photo by Cafe Allright. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) There are cafes in Incheon and Daegu that serve creative and unique jjajangmyeon bingsu, designed to look just like a bowl of jjajangmyeon (noodles in black bean sauce). The white noodles are actually ice cream, and the deep dark colored red beans represent the sauce. Following the popularity of Jjajjangmyeon bingsu, the Sweet And cafe in Daegu unveiled a new bingsu on their menu, Jjamjjamyeon bingsu, referring to the combination of jjangmyeon and jjamppong (spicy noodle soup). Dont let the looks confuse you! This is bibim bingsu, designed to look just like a bowl of bibimbap. Enjoy the refreshing bibim bingsu painted with the flavors of Jeonju, a city known for its bibimbap. The large bowl is filled with frozen milk flakes, and topped with colorful fruits and, tteok (rice cakes). The Gwangju bibim bingsu uses jelly that made to look like a fried egg, completing the image of bibimbap. Mix in as much of the jam, ice cream, and red bean paste as you would like. Cafe Oz (One Piece-Themed Cafe) Address: 21-19 Donghwamaeul-gil, Jung-gu, Incheon ( 21-19) Operating hours: 12:00-18:00 Price: Jjajang Bingsu 18,900 won Cafe Sweet And Dongseongro Branch Address: 2F, 12-36 Dongseong-ro 2-gil, Jung-gu, Daegu ( 2 12-36 2) Operating hours: 13:00-21:30 Price: Jjajang Bingsu 11,000 won / Pat Strawberry Jjamjjamyeon Bingsu 16,000 won Lahan Hotel Jeonju Address: 2F, 85 Girin-daero, Wansan-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk-do ( 85 2) Operating hours: 10:30-22:30 Price: Jeonju Bibim Bingsu 29,000 won Cafe Allright Address: 2F, 19-12 Pungyeong-ro 101beonan-gil, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju ( 101 19-12 2) Operating hours: 11:00-23:00 Price: Bibim Bingsu 18,000 won #Vegan bingsu Pistachio bingsu (Photo by Pan Honesta. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Plum bingsu (Photo by Moonggoojeom Vegan Bakery. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) New vegan bingsu has come out for vegetarians and vegans who have a sweet tooth. Pan Honesta, a vegan bakery in Itaewon, makes vegan bingsu using oat milk for the ice base and coconut-based sugar as an alternative for regular sugar, offering a healthy alternative. They offer a variety of bingsu with different vegan toppings, including black sesame, pistachio, mango, and green tea powder. The Busan branch of the bakery also offers vegan options, prepared with ingredients such as coconut milk and soy milk. Pan Honesta Itaewon Branch Address: 3 Bogwang-ro 55-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul ( 55 3) Operating hours: Monday-Friday 12:00-20:00 / Saturday-Sunday 12:00-21:00 Price: Black Sesame Bingsu 18,000 won / Pistachio Bingsu 19,000 won / Malcha Bingsu 20,000 won / Mango Bingsu 22,000 won Moonggoojeom Vegan Bakery Address: Shop No. 156, 1F, 26 Seojeon-ro 37beon-gil, Busanjin-gu, Busan ( 37 26 B 1 156) Operating hours: Wednesday-Sunday 12:00-19:30 (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)/li> Price: Corn Bingsu 17,300 won / Black Sesame Bingsu 17,300 won / Plum Bingsu 17,900 won / Mango Bingsu 19,800 won | Premium and Affordable Bingsu The bingsu prices vary widely depending on the seller and ingredients. From premium bingsu sold at hotels, following the small luxury trend, to cost-effective options, you can always find one that suits your taste and wallet. #Luxury hotel bingsu Mango bingsu at The Shilla Hotel (Photo by The Shilla Hotel. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Maru bingsu at Four Seasons Hotel (Photo by Four Seasons Hotel. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Mango bingsu at Four Seasons Hotel (Photo by Four Seasons Hotel. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Every summer, even luxury hotels jump on the bingsu train to serve up sweets as luxurious as their rooms. The steep price of the apple mango bingsu available this year at The Shilla Hotel and Signiel Hotel in Seoul doesnt stop it from being so popular that there is a waitlist to enjoy it. At Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, you can enjoy two types of delicious bingsu made with Jeju apple mango, red bean, and green tea. The maru bingsu in particular is this years special option, blending the taste of green tea powder cream with vanilla cream for a full-bodied taste. Most hotels only offer bingsu for a limited period, so be sure to call in advance. The Shilla Hotel Seoul Address: The Library, 249 Dongho-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul ( 249, ) Operating hours: 10:00-24:00 (Bingsu orders accepted 10:00-23:00) Price: Apple Mango Bingsu 110,000 won Signiel Hotel Seoul Address: Lotte Tower The Lounge 79F, 300 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul ( 300 79 ) Operating hours: 11:00-22:00 Price: Apple Mango Bingsu 130,000 won Four Seasons Hotel Seoul Address: Maru 1F, 97 Saemunan-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul ( 97 1 ) Operating hours: 11:00-22:30 (Bingsu orders accepted 11:00-21:00) Price: Jeju Apple Mango Bingsu 149,000 won / Maru Bingsu 89,000 won #Affordable bingsu Ediya Coffee patinjeolmi bingsu (Photo by Ediya Coffee. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) Compose Coffee injeolmi patbingsu (Photo by Naver Blog@eunoia0307. Photo courtesy of Korea Tourism Organization.) If youre not up for fancy and expensive bingsu, opt for a bingsu from a cafe chain. Usually served in a cup as a one-person portion, they are convenient for a takeout. Available in a wide range of options and compact size, chain cafe bingsu is sure to please anyone who loves trying different flavors or eating out alone. With the chain stores available nationwide, these bingsu are perfect for a hot summer day. Just be sure to call and check availability, as they can sell out quickly. Ediya Coffee Price: Patinjeolmi Bingsu / Mango Granola Bingsu / Honey Grapefruit Granola Bingsu / Sweet Corn Bingsu: 1 person bingsu 6,300 won Mega Coffee Price: Patbingsu Gelato Frappe 4,400 won / Mango Bingsu Frappe 4,400 won Compose Coffee Price: Patjeolmi Milkshake 4,500 won / Injeolmi Patbingsu 4,500 won Paiks Coffee Price: Danpat Milkshake 4,500 won / Danpat Soft Ice Cream 4,500 won * This column was last updated in July 2025, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to check for updates before visiting. COPYRIGHTS KOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED www.visitkorea.or.kr Israel has given final approval to a controversial plan to build thousands of new housing units in the occupied West Bank that effectively cuts the territory in two. Plans for settlement in E1, an area east of Jerusalem, had been frozen for decades in the face of international opposition, since it would make a contiguous Palestinian state with a capital in East Jerusalem virtually impossible. But confirming the scheme, far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made it clear that was his goal, saying in a statement, The Palestinian state is being erased from the table not with slogans, but with actions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He had presented the move as Israels response to the recent wave of countries announcing their intention to recognize a Palestinian state. The government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has categorically rejected any prospect of Palestinian statehood, a position reinforced in a resolution passed by the Israeli Knesset last year. Smotrich has repeatedly lobbied Netanyahu to annex the occupied West Bank and apply Israeli sovereignty to the entire territory. What are the settlements and why are they so sensitive? Israeli settlements in the West Bank are Jewish villages, towns, and cities built on land the United Nations and the international community have designated for a Palestinian state. Virtually the entire international community views the expansion of settlements as an obstacle to negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians. According to Peace Now, an organization that tracks the growth of the settlement enterprise, there were 141 settlements in the West Bank as of last year. Whats been approved? The E1 settlement project, frozen for decades because of vociferous international opposition, would connect Jerusalem to the settlement of Maale Adumim, making a future Palestinian capital in East Jerusalem virtually impossible. It would also split the West Bank in half, preventing the establishment of a contiguous Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, Smotrich announced the pending approval of 3,401 new housing units on Thursday in a press conference held on the site of the planned construction. They will talk about a Palestinian dream, and we will continue to build a Jewish reality, Smotrich said last Thursday. This reality is what will permanently bury the idea of a Palestinian state, because there is nothing to recognize and no one to recognize. Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich holds a map of an area near the settlement of Maale Adumim in the occupied West Bank on August 14. - Menahem Kahana/AFP/Getty Images Whats the reaction been? Yisrael Gantz, head of the Yesha Council, which advocates for Jewish settlements in the West Bank, the occupied Golan Heights and Gaza, celebrated the plans. We are on a historic morning that brings us one additional step closer to the vision of sovereignty, Gantz said. We are exercising our historical right to the land of our ancestors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidency of the Palestinian National Council blasted the advancement of the project, describing it in a statement as a systemic plan to steal land, Judaize it, and impose biblical and Talmudic facts on the conflict. Speaker Rawhi Fattouh said the colonial plan falls within the policy of creeping annexation of the West Bank, which is accompanied by settler violence against Palestinians. The Israeli settlement watchdog Peace Now was also scathing, deeming the plan deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution. In a statement, it said, We are standing at the edge of an abyss, and the government is driving us forward at full speed. There is a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to the terrible war in Gaza the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel and it will ultimately come. The governments annexation moves are taking us further away from this solution and guaranteeing many more years of bloodshed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ir Amim, an Israeli organization that monitors developments in and around Jerusalem, warned that Jewish settlements of E1 would permanently entrench Israels occupation of the West Bank, creating an Apartheid reality. It would also cause a rapid and severe deterioration in economic and social conditions for Palestinians that would lead to greater instability and violence. British foreign minister David Lammy said the UK strongly opposes the plans, which he described as a flagrant breach of international law. The plans must be stopped now, Lammy said in a statement Thursday. The European Unions foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, also urged Israel to halt, saying the plan further undermines the two-state solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The settlement policy, combined with settler violence and military operations, was fueling an already tense situation on the ground and further eroding any possibility for peace, Kallas said in a statement. Meanwhile, the US State Department did not denounce the plans to build new settlement housing as part of E1. Instead, a spokesperson for the department instead stressed the need for stability in the West Bank. The spokesperson also referred CNN to the Israeli government for more information. A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administrations goal to achieve peace in the region, the spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We remain focused on ending the war in Gaza and ensuring Hamas will never govern Gaza again, freeing the hostages, including the remains of two Americans, and facilitating the delivery of critically needed humanitarian assistance, the spokesperson said. Is what Israel is doing legal? Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law. The United Nations reinforced that designation in 2016 with Security Council resolution 2334, which declared that Jewish settlements in occupied territory are a flagrant violation of international law and have no legal validity. But that resolution, and many others going back decades, have done little to stop Israels expanding settlement enterprise, which has grown rapidly under US President Donald Trump. During the first Trump administration, the State Department reversed longstanding US policy and ruled settlements were not inconsistent with international law. The Biden administration left this policy in place. Following the Hamas-led October 7 attack on Israel, its government has dramatically accelerated the growth of settlements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, Israel approved the largest expansion of Jewish settlements in the West Bank since the signing of the Oslo Accords more than 30 years ago. The security cabinet said it would establish 22 new settlements, including some deep within the West Bank and in areas from which the country had previously withdrawn. A spokesman for the Palestinian Authority denounced the plan as a dangerous escalation and a challenge to international legitimacy and international law. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says talks are underway with several countries about taking in Palestinians displaced by the war in Gaza. The countries involved are South Sudan, Somaliland, Ethiopia, Libya, and Indonesia, a senior Israeli official told CNN. In exchange for taking in some of Gazas population of more than two million people, the official said the countries are looking for significant financial and international compensation. On Wednesday, South Sudan rejected an Associated Press report that it was in discussions about the resettlement of Palestinians, saying in a statement the reports were baseless and do not reflect the official position of the country. Earlier this year, Somaliland also said there were no such talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And last week, Indonesia said it was ready to take in 2,000 Palestinians from Gaza for treatment but that they would return to Gaza once they recovered. Its unclear how advanced any of these discussions are and whether they are likely to come to fruition. Netanyahu has never given a detailed vision of what will happen to Gaza after the war but has repeatedly advocated for resettling displaced Palestinians in other countries, particularly after President Donald Trump floated the idea early this year. But even as Trump appears to be cooling on the proposal, Israeli officials have embraced it. In an interview published on Tuesday, Netanyahu said, we are talking to several countries without naming them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu claimed in the interview with Israeli network i24 that the plan was not pushing out Palestinians but would instead be allowing them to leave. All those who say theyre concerned for the Palestinians and want to help Palestinians, Netanyahu said should open their doors. Why are they coming and preaching to us?! Open your doors, he added. Israeli soldiers work near tanks in a gathering point near the border with the Gaza Strip, in Southern Israel, Israel on Wednesday. - Amir Levy/Getty Images The comments come as international alarm grows over Israels stated plan to take over Gaza City, home to more than one million Palestinians, including many already displaced by the war. The densely populated city has continued to be hit by Israeli strikes with at least 123 people killed over the last 24 hours across Gaza, according to a tally on Wednesday from the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 100 humanitarian organisations meanwhile called on Israel to end what they called the weaponization of aid in Gaza, saying vital relief was not being allowed in while the territory is gripped by starvation. Shaina Low, Communications Adviser for the Norwegian Refugee Council, said any plans to relocate Palestinians, whether within Gaza or to foreign countries, was a non-starter. They arent acceptable under international law. They arent acceptable to Palestinians. And they should not be acceptable to the international community, Low told CNN. A Greater Israel During the interview, Netanyahu was also asked by i24News network anchor Sharon Gal whether the prime minister connects to the vision of a Greater Israel, to which he responded, Very much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The term Greater Israel refers to a state of Israel that is beyond the borders that exist today. It is also often used as a reference to Biblical Israel, which would include parts of todays Egypt, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. The comments were greeted by sharp statements from several Arab states, which condemned the use of the term as provocative and counterproductive to peace. Egypt demanded clarifications on the use of the term, given its implications of provoking instability and reflecting a rejection of the pursuit of peace in the region, as well as an insistence on escalation, according to a foreign ministry statement. Saudi Arabia said it expresses its outright rejection of the settlement and expansionist plans adopted by the Israeli occupation authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qatar said the use of the term is considered an extension of the occupations approach based on arrogance, fuelling crises and conflicts, and blatantly infringing the sovereignty of states. Gal and Netanyahus conversation about Greater Israel did not appear on the official channels full interview, but a longer version with Netanyahus comments was posted on Gals account on X. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Thursday said the country would annex the occupied West Bank if the international community officially recognizes the state of Palestine next month. "You have no chance, there will be no Palestinian state," Smotrich said during a press conference addressed to several countries that plan to recognize the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. "You will not decide from overseas what the future of the Jewish people looks like," the minister, who has been pushing for the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law. Speaking near the Israeli settlement of Ma'ale Adumim, east of Jerusalem, Smotrich said: "If you recognize a Palestinian state in September, our response will be to to assert full Israeli sovereignty in all areas of Judea and Samaria." Judea and Samaria is a term used by Israel to refer to the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. A number of states, including France, Canada and Australia, have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September in response to Israel's military campaign in Gaza. They hope the move will bring closer the possibility of a two-state solution, which envisions a Palestinian state and Israel coexisting peacefully, a prospect that both Israel and Palestinian extremist group Hamas continue to firmly reject. Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Thursday said the country would annex the occupied West Bank if the international community officially recognizes the state of Palestine next month. "You have no chance, there will be no Palestinian state," Smotrich said during a press conference addressed to several countries that plan to recognize the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. "You will not decide from overseas what the future of the Jewish people looks like," the minister, who has been pushing for the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law. Speaking near the Israeli settlement of Ma'ale Adumim, east of Jerusalem, Smotrich said: "If you recognize a Palestinian state in September, our response will be to to assert full Israeli sovereignty in all areas of Judea and Samaria." Judea and Samaria is a term used by Israel to refer to the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. A number of states, including France, Canada and Australia, have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September in response to Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They hope the move will bring closer the possibility of a two-state solution, which envisions a Palestinian state and Israel coexisting peacefully, a prospect that both Israel and Palestinian extremist group Hamas continue to firmly reject. Almost 150 of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestinian statehood. However, important Western countries are not among them, including the UN veto powers the United States and the United Kingdom. Today, more than 700,000 Israelis have settled permanently in the West Bank, living among some 3 million Palestinians. Incidents of settler violence targeting Palestinians have been on the rise since the start of the Gaza war, with the Israeli far-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused of fuelling tensions and failing to prosecute those responsible. Netanyahu put plans for the annexation of the West Bank on ice in return for rapprochement with the United Arab Emirates, a powerful player in the Middle East, in 2020. Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has said plans to build more than 3,000 homes in a controversial settlement project in the occupied West Bank will "bury the idea of a Palestinian state". The so-called E1 project between Jerusalem and the Maale Adumim settlement has been frozen for decades amid fierce opposition internationally. Building there would effectively cut off the West Bank from occupied East Jerusalem. Smotrich said it would thwart the idea of a Palestinian state "because there is nothing to recognise and no one to recognise". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Settlements are considered illegal under international law and form one of the most contentious issues between Israel and the Palestinians. About 700,000 settlers live in approximately 160 settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, according to the Israeli anti-settlement group Peace Now. It is land Palestinians seek for a future independent state. "After decades of international pressure and freezes, we are breaking conventions and connecting Maale Adumim to Jerusalem," Smotrich said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is Zionism at its best - building, settling and strengthening our sovereignty in the Land of Israel." It follows declarations in recent days by a growing number of countries of their intention to recognise a Palestinian state in coming months, which Israel has denounced. Announcing the plan at a news conference with settler organisation Yesha Council Chairman Israel Ganz and Maale Adumim Mayor Guy Yifrach, Smotrich said the land had been given to the Jews by God. When asked by the BBC what message the plans sent to the likes of the UK and France, which plan to recognise a State of Palestine later this year, he said: "It's not going to happen. There will be no state to recognise." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response to the move, the US State Department said "a stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administration's goal to achieve peace in the region." But the UN and the EU urged Israel not to progress the plan. The "EU rejects any territorial change that is not part of a political agreement between involved parties," a spokesman said. UK Foreign Minister David Lammy said the proposal must be stopped. "The UK strongly opposes the Israeli government's E1 settlement plans, which would divide a future Palestinian state in two and mark a flagrant breach of international law," he said. [BBC] Israeli NGO Peace Now said: "The Netanyahu government is exploiting every minute to deepen the annexation of the West Bank and prevent the possibility of a two-state solution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is clear to everyone today that the only solution to the conflict, and the only way to defeat Hamas, is through the establishment of a Palestinian state alongside Israel. "The Government of Israel is condemning us to continued bloodshed, instead of working to end it." The Palestinian foreign ministry called the new settlement plan "an extension of crimes of genocide, displacement and annexation". Israel has long rejected such accusations, but leading Israeli human rights organisations have argued that the country's conduct in the war in Gaza constitutes genocide against the Palestinian population. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smotrich, together with national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, was sanctioned by the UK in June over "repeated incitements of violence against Palestinian communities" in the occupied West Bank. The construction of 3,401 housing units in the E1 area has been frozen for 20 years. Developing the area has long been seen as effectively blocking the establishment of a Palestinian state, because of its strategic position separating areas south of Jerusalem from those to its north, preventing a contiguous Palestinian urban area connecting Ramallah, East Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Since Hamas's attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, Israel's pressure on West Bank Palestinians has increased sharply, justified as legitimate security measures. The vast majority of the international community considers the settlements illegal under international law - a position supported by an advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) last year. Israels far-right finance minister pushed for expanding Jewish settlements across the Palestinian territories, despite increasing international pushback. Bezalel Smotrich said Thursday that construction plans were approved for a West Bank project that finally buries the idea of a Palestinian state, days after he said Israel was closer than ever to reestablishing settlements in Gaza that were evacuated two decades ago. Much of the world considers the settlements illegal under international law, and the expansion push comes as more countries vow to recognize a Palestinian state. Washington, though, has scaled back pressure on Israel under Donald Trump. Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians reached a record high this year, according to United Nations data, registering nearly 130 monthly assaults. Israel's far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on Thursday said his country would annex the occupied West Bank if the international community officially recognizes the state of Palestine next month. Smotrich also announced plans to build approximately 3,400 additional housing units for Israeli settlers in a particularly sensitive area of the occupied West Bank, a move that has drawn international criticism, including from the European Union. "You have no chance. There will be no Palestinian state," Smotrich said during a press conference addressed to several countries that plan to recognize the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You will not decide from overseas what the future of the Jewish people looks like," said the minister, who has been pushing for the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. Israeli settlements in the West Bank are considered illegal under international law. Speaking near the Israeli settlement of Ma'ale Adumim, east of Jerusalem, Smotrich said: "If you recognize a Palestinian state in September, our response will be to to assert full Israeli sovereignty in all areas of Judea and Samaria." Judea and Samaria is a term used by Israel to refer to the West Bank, which has been under Israeli occupation since 1967. Israel says recognition is a 'reward for Hamas' Israel rejects recognizing a Palestinian state, saying it would be a "reward" for Palestinian militant organization Hamas following the massacre in Israel's border region on October 7, 2023, that was perpetrated by Hamas and other Palestinian militants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ghazi Hamad, a senior Hamas member, praised the anticipated recognition last month in a television interview as "the fruits of October 7." A number of states, including France, Canada and Australia, have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly in September in response to Israel's military campaign in Gaza. The United Kingdom said it would recognize such a state unless Israel agrees to certain conditions, such as a ceasefire and restarting the prospect of a two-state solution. The governments hope the move will bring closer the possibility of a two-state solution, which envisions a Palestinian state and Israel coexisting peacefully, a prospect that both Israel and Hamas continue to firmly reject. Almost 150 of the 193 UN member states already recognize Palestinian statehood. However, United States, which has UN veto powers, is not among them. Controversial settlement plans in a sensitive area Smotrich also announced plans to build around 3,400 housing units in the E1 area between East Jerusalem and the settlement of Ma'ale Adumim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This step buries the idea of a Palestinian state once and for all," Smotrich said on-site. The E1 area is considered one of the most sensitive points in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Its strategic location between East Jerusalem and Ma'ale Adumim means that construction there would effectively divide the West Bank into northern and southern sections, making a contiguous territory for a future Palestinian state significantly more difficult, if not impossible. For this reason, construction plans in the area have faced particularly strong international criticism. Under international pressure, Israel has repeatedly postponed plans for E1 in the past. EU, others condemn settlement expansion The EU has called on Israel to abandon settlement expansion plans announced by Smotrich and halt settlement construction in the West Bank altogether. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These unilateral decisions are fuelling an already tense situation on the ground and further eroding any possibility for peace," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas in a statement. Kallas said the E1 settlement plan "further undermines the two-state solution while being a breach of international law." Criticism has also come from Arab countries. The Gulf state of Qatar accused Israel of pursuing an occupation policy aimed solely at forcibly displacing the Palestinian population. Jordan and Egypt warned that Israel's settlement policy prevents peace and stability in the region. The peace organization Peace Now stated that final approval of the controversial settlement plans is scheduled for Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The E1 plan is deadly for the future of Israel and for any chance of achieving a peaceful two-state solution," the organization wrote in a statement. "We are standing at the edge of an abyss, and the government is driving us forward at full speed." The solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict "and to the terrible war in Gaza" is a two-state solution, the group argued - "and it will ultimately come." The Israeli government rejects the two-state solution, arguing that it endangers Israel's existence. Hamas also rejects a two-state solution, as it believes Israel has not legitmacy as a country and the entire territory that is now Israel should be part of a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peace Now stated that the Israeli government's annexation plans are moving the country further from the needed two-state solution and "guaranteeing many more years of bloodshed." Israel took control of the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1967, where more than 700,000 settlers now live among approximately 3 million Palestinians. According to international law, the settlements are illegal. The Palestinians claim these areas for their own state, with East Jerusalem as its capital. Incidents of settler violence targeting Palestinians have been on the rise since the start of the Gaza war, with the Israeli far-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused of fuelling tensions and failing to prosecute those responsible. Netanyahu put plans for the annexation of the West Bank on ice in return for rapprochement with the United Arab Emirates, a powerful player in the Middle East, in 2020. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has said she is satisfied with the unity of purpose in the West following a 13 August discussion with European leaders and US President Donald Trump regarding the Russo-Ukrainian war. Source: European Pravda, citing a statement released by the Italian government Quote from the statement: "The discussion showed firm unity in the belief that a just and lasting peace cannot exist without a ceasefire, without the ongoing support for Ukraine, without maintaining collective pressure on Russia particularly through sanctions and without strong and reliable security guarantees anchored in the Euro-Atlantic context." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: It is noted that Meloni expressed "great satisfaction at the unity of purpose and the capacity for dialogue the West is demonstrating in the face of a fundamental challenge to security and the defence of international law". "Now it is time to see what position Russia will take in Alaska, as it has so far shown no intention of making any significant steps forward," the statement reads. Meloni also thanked Trump for his efforts and stressed the importance of continuing cooperation with the United States to achieve peace that will ensure Ukraines sovereignty and security. She also welcomed US Vice President JD Vances participation in the coalition of the willing meeting, held as a follow-up to the first gathering of its kind in Rome, this time with US representatives. Background: Notably, after the coalition meeting, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that it demonstrated a high level of unity. Meanwhile, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said that the countries of the coalition of the willing must be ready to deploy troops to Ukraine. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! First daughter Ivanka Trump is helping facilitate the highly anticipated White House UFC fight as the Trump administration prepares to roll out patriotic events celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary of independence in 2026. "Ivanka is a longtime fan of UFC and is honored to help Dana White create an exciting event celebrating a sport beloved by so many Americans, as part of our countrys 250th celebration," a source close to Ivanka Trump told Fox News Digital this week. The first daughter, who is a student of jiu-jitsu, will not take any official job or role for the event but is instead facilitating its planning, Fox News Digital has learned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump first announced in July a UFC fight would be held at the White House, as the nation prepared to celebrate Independence Day. Dana White Reiterates That Ufc White House Fights Are 'Absolutely Going To Happen' Ivanka Trump is helping facilitate planning for the UFC fight at the White House in 2026, Fox Digital has learned. "Every one of our national parks, battlefields and historic sites are going to have special events in honor of America250, and I even think were going to have a UFC fight," Trump said in a speech at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on the eve of the Fourth of July . Read On The Fox News App "Does anybody watch UFC? The great Dana White?" he continued. "Were going to have a UFC fight. Were going to have a UFC fight think of this on the grounds of the White House. We have a lot of land there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump ally and UFC CEO Dana White declared in August that the fight at the White House is "absolutely going to happen," previewing that it would be held in honor of the 250th anniversary of America's independence, July 4, 2026. Ufc's Dana White Hints That Recently Retired Jon Jones, Conor Mcgregor Could Return For White House Fights "Think about that, the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the UFC will be on the White House South Lawn live on CBS," White told the Associated Press Wednesday. "This is a one-of-one event," he added. Trump Says Ufc Fight Will Take Place On White House Grounds Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White promised "the baddest card of all time" during a recent podcast appearance, confirming that Jon Jones, who retired in June and celebrated a recent victory by dancing like Trump, had gone back into the drug-testing pool ahead of the 2026 fight. "Everybody wants to fight on this card. Literally everybody," White told the "Full Send Podcast" in July. Trump's Ufc 316 Appearance Draws Massive Ovation In New Jersey, Fighter Celebrates With Him After Win White first previewed Ivanka Trump's involvement with planning the White House UFC fight, telling CBS in August that the president wanted his daughter involved. Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White has touted a UFC fight at the White House for July 2026. "When (Trump) called me and asked me to do it, he said, I want Ivanka in the middle of this," White told CBS Mornings Tuesday. "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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ivanka Trump served as a senior advisor to President Trump during his first administration but has kept out of the political spotlight since then. Fox News Digital's Ryan Morik and Jackson Thompson contributed to this report. Original article source: Ivanka Trump re-enters DC ring for upcoming knockout UFC White House fight Of all the members in President Donald Trump's inner circle, there's only one who likely understands what happens in a mixed martial arts fight. Ivanka Trump, former White House adviser and eldest daughter of Donald Trump, trains in jiu-jitsu and loves it. During her father's first term, she and husband Jared Kushner, also a jiu-jitsu student, played a prominent role, serving as the president's senior advisers. Though she helped Donald Trump campaign in the 2020 presidential election, she and Kushner took a step back from politics, in part, to focus on their family. Though she has no official role in his second term as 47th president, Ivanka Trump has been a strong supporter, showing up at key events before and after Inauguration Day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now ... reports suggest Ivanka Trump may be back to help plan a potential UFC fight at the White House next year. The person who recommended her for the role? Donald Trump. Trump's presidential salary: How much do US presidents make an hour? We did the math for you Below is more information about Ivanka Trump's tie to a potential UFC fight at the White House in 2026, her rank in jiu-jitsu and what she's said about training in martial arts. Will there be a UFC fight at the White House? When will Dana White's Ultimate Fighting Champion match be in DC? In a speech on July 4, 2025, Donald Trump floated the idea of hosting a UFC fight at the White House for next year's July Fourth celebrations. 2026 marks America's 250th anniversary, and many celebrations, in addition to a potential UFC fight, are in the works. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Every one of our national park battlefields and historic sites are going to have special events in honor of America 250," Trump said. "And I even think we're going to have a UFC fight. We're going to have a UFC fight on the grounds of the White House." UFC CEO Dana White told "CBS Mornings" he discussed the event in an Aug. 11 call with the president, who said he wanted his daughter, Ivanka Trump, involved in the planning: "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," White said on the CBS morning show. According to an Aug. 12 story in USA TODAY, White is scheduled to travel to Washington, D.C. on Aug. 28 to meet with Donald and Ivanka Trump to discuss plans for the UFC fight. Trump family appearances: Trump speech to Congress, Super Bowl, Daytona 500 ... who did (and didn't) attend Does Ivanka Trump do jiu-jitsu? Where does Ivanka Trump train in martial arts? Ivanka Trump said she started training in jiu-jitsu because of her daughter Arabella Kushner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a podcast with host Lex Fridman, Ivanka Trump said, "At 11 she told me that she wanted to learn self-defense. She wanted to learn how to protect herself. As a mom I was so proud. At 11, I was not thinking about defending myself. I loved that she had that desire and awareness." Friends in Miami recommended the Valente Brothers studio with Gui Valente, Pedro Valente and Joaquim Valente, who is dating Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. (The couple have been dating since 2023 and welcomed a baby in February 2025.) Ivanka Trump is definitely one of the dojo's most famous students. The jiu-jitsu training with the Valente Brothers started with Arabella Kushner, who encouraged her mom to try it. Ivanka Trump further explains to Fridman that her sons Joseph and Theo Kushner eventually joined, followed by her husband, Jared Kushner. "We're all doing jiu-jitsu," Ivanka Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like Ivanka Trump, Gisele Bundchen practiced jiu-jitsu with her children, Benjamin Brady and Vivian Brady, whom she shares with ex-husband Tom Brady. In December 2023, Bundchen was promoted to purple belt (she was previously a blue belt). What belt is Ivanka Trump in jiu-jitsu? What rank does Ivanka Trump hold in martial arts? Ivanka Trump is a blue belt in jiu-jitsu. In most martial arts, there is no specific timeframe of when you achieve different ranks or belts and not all of them use a belt system (Kung fu, mixed martial arts, for example). Mostly, it depends on the dojo, the system and the proficiency of the student. The dojo where she trains, Valente Brothers academy in Miami, Florida, tagged the first daughter in a March 21, 2025, video on social media platforms X and Instagram. The social video, which shows Donald Trump's eldest daughter engaging in stunning "takedowns" and self-defense techniques from the martial art, has gotten millions of views online. In the Instagram Reel from the Valente Brothers, Ivanka Trump shows off self-defense techniques during a grab and responses to attacks (see below). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Lex Fridman podcast, the former senior adviser to President Donald Trump explains why she loves jiu-jitsu: "For me, there's something really empowering knowing that I had some basic skills to defend myself. ... It gives you a sense of confidence and also gives you kind of a sense of calm, knowing how to de-escalate rather than escalate a situation. As part of the training, you develop more natural awareness when you're out and about." What is jiu-jitsu? How is jiu-jitsu different from karate or Kung fu? Is jiu-jitsu like mixed martial arts? Brazilian jiu-jitsu, commonly referred to as BJJ, is a martial art that focuses on self-defense, grappling and submission holds. But, like the Valente Brothers posted on their Ivanka Trump social video, "Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art. Rooted in tradition and guided by the 753 Code, it builds physical confidence, mental clarity, and emotional balance." Ivanka Trump retweeted the video on X with the emoji of a martial arts uniform, commonly referred to as a "gi" (sounds like "key" with a G). She's also talked about "the code." Martial arts are more than techniques and self-defense practitioners will usually mention it's a way of life, complete with exercise, nutrition, rest, mental health and positivity. In the podcast with Lex Fridman, who also practices jiu-jitsu, Ivanka Trump said the 753 Code "is a framework much like religion is in our house and can be for others. It's a framework to discuss things that happen in life large and small," and jiu-jitsu is perfect for the mind, body and soul. Video of Ivanka Trump studying jiu-jitsu, martial arts training at Valente Brothers dojo. Why Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump takes jiu-jitsu Jiu-Jitsu is more than a martial art. Rooted in tradition and guided by the 753 Code, it builds physical confidence, mental clarity, and emotional balance@IvankaTrump pic.twitter.com/BtJ3TtdhQe Valente Brothers (@ValenteBrother) March 21, 2025 Contributing: Kinsey Crowley and Gabe Hauari, USA TODAY Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sangalang, a trending writer for USA TODAY Network, is a Go-dan or fifth-degree Black Belt in Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu Karate USA. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Ivanka Trump, a jiu-jitsu student, to help plan White House MMA fight (Image: Sancheong-gun. Photo courtesy of Haps Magazine Korea.) Sancheong County has been recognized as one of South Koreas most highly recommended domestic travel destinations, thanks to its rich natural beauty, cultural festivals, and high-quality local products. According to the 2025 Travelers and Locals Domestic Travel Destination Evaluation and Recommendation Survey conducted by Consumer Insight, Sancheong earned high rankings across various travel categories among 48,790 respondents nationwide. It placed second in mountain and valley tourism, third in both hiking and camping, and fifth in agricultural products. Local festivals also ranked eighth overall in recommendation rates. The Jirisan Dulle-gil Trail and Daewonsa Valley drew particular praise with an 80.6% recommendation rate, while the Jirisan CheonwangbongJungsan-ri mountaineering course came in third nationally. The Hwangmaesan Auto Camping Site also surged to third in camping destinations, up 35 places from before the COVID-19 pandemic. Sancheongs diverse attractions, ranging from summer streams to autumn foliage and year-round camping, benefit from its location in the Baekdudaegan mountain range and within a national park zone. These qualities highlight its potential as a multi-seasonal, nature-focused travel destination. The countys agricultural offerings also saw strong recognition, placing fifth in the category, an impressive jump of 60 spots since 2019. Sancheongs dried persimmons, medicinal herbs, and Chahwang locust rice have become signature products, bolstered by direct-market sales, rural tourism experiences, and events like the Jirisan Sancheong Dried Persimmon Festival. Local festivals such as the Sancheong Herbal Medicine Festival ranked eighth nationally for travel resources. These events blend specialty products, ecology, traditional culture, and immersive experiences, serving as platforms to share Sancheongs regional identity. Consumer Insight noted that the combination of local storytelling, unique themes, event planning, and strong community participation contributed significantly to Sancheongs rising profile as a must-visit location. Aug. 14Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday said she had one reason for approving the allocation of $9.5 million in state funding to Decatur's Cook Museum of Natural Science for STEM education. "Because if we don't prepare our students today, we will fall behind, and that is all the reason that I need," she said during a luncheon at Cook Museum. The "Gratitude Luncheon" was held to celebrate the state funding given to the museum to boost STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education and Ivey's designation of the museum in May as the North Alabama STEM Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This museum makes those opportunities real," Ivey said of the museum's impact on STEM education. "It takes STEM out of the textbooks and puts it right into a child's hands." The Cook Museum is planning a $29.5 million museum expansion, which includes the $9.5 million from the state. Cook's Properties LLC also has a commitment for a $23 million, 130-room hotel between Lee and Holly streets Northeast and an estimated $17 million parking deck funded by the city which will be between the hotel site and the museum. Morgan County is also donating $500,000 to the project. The museum plans to expand STEM programming, classrooms, labs and outreach capacity. Cook Museum President and Chairman Brian Cook highlighted the need for the expansion at the luncheon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We provide high-quality, STEM-based classes, programs that align with Alabama state standards," Cook said. "Since opening in June 2019, (shortly before) COVID, we have had more than 512,000 visitors and nearly 80,000 students. "Last year we shared with the governor and our local state legislators that even though we are reaching all 21 north Alabama counties (with) our 62,000-square-foot, $35 million facility and excellent programming, we have a problem. Our ... hands-on classrooms are at capacity. We have had to turn away students. We were stuck with the problem it was a good problem, but a real problem nonetheless. Thanks to Gov. Ivey's vision and leadership along with the state Legislature, they provided the necessary catalyst to double our STEM classrooms, programing and experiences." But to keep up with the demand, he said Cook Museum not only has to expand labs and classrooms, it has to provide a large field trip lunchroom and gathering space, a flexible programming space and fulfill other needs. Cook said it will be a year before the master plan is finished that outlines what new exhibits will be in the expanded facility. The museum hosts numerous immersive exhibits that include live animals, aquariums, insects, geology and ecosystems, as well as STEM labs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cook said the North Alabama STEM Center will be "a regional launch pad for inspiring and equipping our students to be curious and develop a lifelong love of learning and doing." Raising the $20 million in additional funds will be the job of Cook Museum Director of Development Jeanne Payne, a former curriculum director for Decatur City Schools. After the luncheon, she said she believes people will give generously. "I believe that philanthropy changes the world," she said. "And when you give to something you believe in, you feel good about yourself. I just give people the opportunity to give to something they believe in. I always say I just help people feel good about themselves." She said she uses her relationships with people as her inroad to ask for these gifts. She said she doesn't think raising the money for the nonprofit will be a problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We did it once already," she said, when the museum was built. The governor lauded Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, who introduced her, saying when he puts his mind to something it usually gets done. "Today we are celebrating something that got done in a big way," Ivey said. She said her previous museum visit in 2020 left her "deeply impressed by not only the exhibits but the vision." The museum, she said, "was cultivating a passion for learning in our young people." jean.cole@decaturdaily.com or 256-340-2361 BENXI, China (AP) Eighty years after the end of World War II, Japan and China are marking the anniversary with major events, but on different dates and in different ways. Japan remembers the victims in a solemn ceremony on Aug. 15, the day then-Emperor Hirohito announced in a crackly radio message that the government had surrendered, while China showcases its military strength with a parade on Sept. 3, the day after the formal surrender on an American battleship in Tokyo Bay. Japan occupied much of China before and during WWII in a devastating and brutal invasion that, by some estimates, killed 20 million people. The wartime experience still bedevils relations between the two countries today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A museum in the Chinese city of Benxi highlights the struggles of anti-Japanese resistance fighters who holed up in log cabins through fierce winters in the country's northeast, then known as Manchuria, before retreating into Russia. They returned only after the Soviet Union declared war on Japan and launched an offensive into Manchuria on Aug. 9, 1945 the same day the U.S. dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki adding to the pressure on Japan to surrender. Nowadays, it is Chinas military that raises alarm as it seeks to enforce the governments territorial claims in the Pacific. When Japan talks of building up its defense to counter the threat, its militaristic past gives China a convenient retort. We urge Japan to deeply reflect on its historical culpability, earnestly draw lessons from history and stop using hype over regional tensions and China-related issues to conceal its true intent of military expansion," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Japan's surrender broadcast Hirohito's prerecorded surrender broadcast on Aug. 15, 1945, was incomprehensible to many Japanese. He used arcane language and the sound quality was poor. What was important, historians say, was that the message came from the emperor himself. Hirohito was considered a living god, and the war was fought in his name. Most Japanese had never heard his voice before. The speech is a reminder of what it took to end the wrong war, Nihon University professor Takahisa Furukawa told The Associated Press in 2015. The current emperor, Hirohitos grandson Naruhito, and the prime minister are set to make remarks at the annual ceremony in Tokyo on Aug. 15, broadcast live by public broadcaster NHK. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At last year's event, Naruhito expressed deep remorse over Japans actions during the war. But on the same day, three Japanese cabinet ministers visited Tokyo's Yasukuni shrine, drawing criticism from China and South Korea, which see the shrine as a symbol of militarism. China marks Victory Day Japan surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945, in a ceremony on board the American battleship USS Missouri. The foreign minister, in a top hat and tails, and the army chief signed on behalf of Hirohito. The signatories on the other side were U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur and representatives from China and other nations that had fought Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China designated the next day, Sept. 3, as Victory Day. Eleven years ago, the Communist Party stepped up how China marks the anniversary. All of China's top leaders, including President Xi Jinping, attended a commemorative event on Sept. 3. The renewed focus came at a time of rising tension with Japan over conflicting interpretations of wartime history and a still-ongoing territorial dispute in the East China Sea. The next year, China staged a military parade on the 70th anniversary of the end of the war. A decade later, preparations are underway for another grand parade with missiles, tanks and fighter jets overhead. Russian President Vladimir Putin is among those expected to attend. Aug. 13MITCHELL Automation, safety and even tariffs are helping play a part in the yearly exports of a local toner manufacturer sending South Dakota exports to Japan. Consul-General of Japan (Chicago) Masashi Mizobuchi on Tuesday, Aug. 12, toured the Japanese-owned Etria Products USA toner manufacturing plant on South Foster Street in Mitchell, and to meet with state leaders at the Midwest Ag Export Summit on Wednesday, Aug. 13, in Sioux Falls. Japan received South Dakota exports to the tune of $85 million in 2024. Japan is the fourth-largest market for South Dakota exports, including beef, and the third-largest market for South Dakota pork. Ahead of Japan's import of South Dakota products is Canada, Mexico and China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There's ample room for additional Japan-South Dakota trade, according to Consul-General Mizobuchi, who saw South Dakota as a land of opportunity for agriculture, innovation and technology. "I hope my visit will be an opportunity to build relationships that will facilitate Japanese trade with this great state," Consul-General Mizobuchi said. Consul-General Mizobuchi was impressed that Etria ran three shifts. He was pleased that a Japanese company was contributing to the community with almost 100 jobs, a high-quality workforce, and what he called a friendly business environment. "I hope they grow their business here, make people stay happy and expand more jobs," Consul-General Mizobuchi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The consul-general seeks to strengthen Japan's ties with each of the 10 US mid-west region states in the consul-general's district. The Etria toner plant formerly operated in Mitchell as Toshiba for 36 years until 2024, when Toshiba and Ricoh formed a joint partnership under the banner name of Etria Products USA. Automation and safety are pillars of the toner manufacturer. Color-coded walkways and aisles lead employees and guests safely around the 188,000-square-foot facility. Sound-proof doors shield employees from the noise of materials being prepared to become toner and every tool has a place and a label. Etria's 95 employees work across three shifts a day up to five days a week to produce 750 toner cartridges per eight-hour shift. Empty cartridges go down the line, are filled with toner, sealed and exit the automated line to be packaged by an employee. An automated robotic arm then takes the packaged box and stacks it on a pallet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One day the line produces a magenta color, the next may be cyan, according to Etria Vice President of Manufacturing Engineering Jeff Clark. The toner corrugated cardboard packaging box is folded by an automated machine that was built by Etria engineers in Mitchell with over 100 parts that were 3-D printed. Before the folding machine, the boxes were folded by hand and there were some injuries, according to Clark, who started with Toshiba 34 years ago. "34 years ago we had none of that automation. It was all just people," Clark said. A series of monitoring sensors helps regulate air compressors and the heat produced by machinery in the facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The packaging department also handles packaging toner to export to China and Japan. Each of the three bags is 20 kilograms, which comes out to about 130 pounds of toner, according to Clark. Mitchell Chamber of Commerce CEO Mike Lauritsen highlighted how much is produced in Mitchell and is shipped internationally from one of Mitchell's largest employers. "It's having meetings like these that make our relationships stronger," Lauritsen said. Etria General Manager Teresa Sternhagen is preparing Etria to produce more products in the US because of the recent Trump administration import tariffs. These products were originally packaged in China and sold back to the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're actually bringing in (and) qualifying that product here and then be able to sell to the U.S. market. That's one of the largest changes recently, Sternhagen said. Even if the tariff were to be removed, the product would stay in the U.S., according to Sternhagen. "Are we excited to have new product? Of course we are," Sternhagen said. "But do we like to pay out all those tariffs? No." According to Sternhagen, it's tough to plan business and forecast the impact of the tariffs. There's good and bad with everything, Sternhagen said. "Can we bring enough product back to the U.S. to actually help pay for all the new tariffs that will be paying out to import raw materials?" Sternhagen said. TOKYO (AP) Friday is the 80th anniversary of then-Emperor Hirohito's announcement of Japan's World War II surrender, but as living witnesses die and memories fade, questions remain in Japan about how the war should be taught to younger generations. A national ceremony will begin at Tokyos Budokan hall at noon, the same time then-Emperor Hirohitos 4-minute prerecorded speech began on Aug. 15, 1945, on national radio. Hirohitos responsibility for the war remains controversial today, and Japan has struggled to come to terms with its wartime past, both at home and in the Asian countries it brutally invaded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1995, then-Prime Minister Tomiichi Murayama apologized over Japans aggression in Asia. It was welcomed abroad but there has since been continual pushback against it by revisionists and those who deny responsibility. Here's a look at the speech and the memories of some of the people who heard the announcement. Japans military saw violence, suicides and chaos right up until the official surrender Even after the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, there was dispute within the military government over if or how the war should be ended. The day before the announcement, Hirohito, dressed in a formal military uniform, met with top government officials in a bunker at the Imperial Palace to approve Japans surrender. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staff members for NHK, the national broadcaster, were secretly called in, and Hirohito recorded the speech twice, finishing late that night. Palace officials hid the recordings to protect them from sabotage attempts by a group of army officers, who at one point seized the broadcast facility. Despite the chaos, palace officials safely delivered the recordings to NHK for radio transmission at noon on Aug. 15, 1945. Up until the moment of the surrender announcement, there were suicides, coup attempts and fighting among army officers. The action-filled drama of the days before Hirohitos radio address was made into a film, Japans Longest Day, as well as a graphic novel. Hirohitos voice, which most Japanese were hearing for the first time because he was considered a living god, was not easy to understand because of poor sound quality and the arcane language he used. The message was clear, though: Japan had lost the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fumiko Doi heard the emperors address at home in Nagasaki just 6 days after surviving the atomic bombing She remembers that her neighbors gathered at her home to listen to a radio placed on top of a cabinet. She did not understand what exactly was said, but later learned it was the announcement of Japans surrender. It was not a surprise, because she had heard her mother say that Japan would lose. I only wish the emperor had issued an order to end the war sooner, Doi says. The Nagasaki bombing and an attack on Hiroshima three days earlier together killed more than 210,000 people and left many survivors with radiation-induced illnesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Aug. 9, 1945, at 11:02 a.m., Doi was on a train 5 kilometers (3 miles) away from the location a U.S. B-29 dropped the atomic bomb. Her mother and two of her three brothers died of cancer, and two sisters have struggled with their health. Relief and tears as the emperor's speech reached a hospital filled with wounded Reiko Muto, who survived the massive Tokyo firebombing just five months earlier as a 17-year-old nursing student, was at her hospital on Aug. 15. Everyone gathered in an auditorium for an important broadcast. People cried when the emperors muffled voice came on the radio. The first thing that came to my mind was that now I could leave the lights on at night, Muto said. I was so relieved that the war was over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The March 10, 1945, U.S. firebombing of Tokyo killed more than 100,000 people. Truckloads of people with serious burns cried in pain and begged for water, but because of a shortage of medical supplies, the best she could do was to comfort them. But the end of the war didnt immediately end the hardship. Her hospital and nursing school were occupied by the allied powers, though she managed to graduate two years later and pursued a career in pediatric nursing. What we went through should never be repeated, she says. For Tamiko Sora, a Hiroshima survivor, the surrender speech is a bittersweet memory Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sora, her two sisters and their parents barely survived the atomic bombing on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, when the blast destroyed her home just 1.4 kilometers (0.9 mile) from the hypocenter, and Soras face was burned. Her grandmother suffered severe burns, and her uncle and aunt were never found. While taking shelter at a relatives home, her parents listened to the radio broadcast, but sound quality was particularly bad in Hiroshima because the atomic bombing destroyed key infrastructure. Her grandmother, who died later that day, sounded disappointed about the announcement, Sora said. Her grandmother's generation venerated the emperor, and his acknowledgment of Japans defeat must have discouraged her far more than the rest of the family imagined, Sora said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the sadness of her grandmothers death, the surrender speech gave Sora peace of mind. War brings horror and intimidation even to little children, she said. The emperor and prime minister speak on Aug. 15 Hirohitos son and grandson have repeatedly expressed deep remorse over the war, but prime ministers since 2013 have not apologized to Asian victims of Japans aggression amid a government lean toward revisionism. Hirohitos grandson, current Emperor Naruhito, has repeatedly stressed the importance of telling the war's tragic history to younger generations. He has traveled to Iwo Jima, Okinawa and Hiroshima, and is expected to visit Nagasaki with his daughter, Princess Aiko, in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who has signaled a more neutral view of Japans wartime history, has said he is determined to keep passing on the tragedy of the war. But his leadership comes as emboldened ultra-conservatives in his party try to force him out over a July election loss. Vice President JD Vance was reportedly turned away by a popular British pub after staffers threatened not to show up for work if the restaurant booked his reservation. An employee at The Bull in Charlbury, Oxfordshire, said they were unable to comment on the matter when contacted by The Daily Beast. Public House Group, the restaurant group that operates the understated Michelin-rated venue, hasnt responded to a Daily News request for comment. Some residents of the Oxfordshire hamlet have become upset by Vance choosing their south-central England region to spend some downtime. Local media outlet the Oxford Clarion posted photos of signs in locals lawns protesting the vice president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fascists not welcome here, read one of those signs, while another simply told Vance to go home. The Oxford Mail reported in late July that former Vice President Kamala Harris had just visited The Bull and at least one other establishment in the area without incident. But locals told the BBC that Vances visit complicated everyday life for some. I dont think the locals are too happy about the roads being closed, one area resident said. Vance ran into a similar issue last September when he and his entourage were met with resistance at a Pennsylvania restaurant that said it wasnt expecting his visit and the hoopla it brought just weeks before the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The eatery later put out a statement claiming the politician from Ohio was not banned but in fact allowed to engage with supporters at the Pittsburgh-area business after staff resolved the momentary confusion. _____ A man who went viral for throwing a Subway sandwich at a federal officer is now facing a felony charge. Federal prosecutors have charged Sean Charles Dunn with assaulting, resisting or impeding officers after he allegedly lobbed a sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection officer on Sunday evening in northwest Washington, D.C. He doesnt think its funny today because we charged him with a felony, assault on a police officer, said Jeannine Pirro, the U.S. Attorney for D.C., in a video posted to X, formerly Twitter. And were going to back the police to the hilt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge comes as President Donald Trump has deployed the National Guard and federal law enforcement to take over policing in Washington, D.C., claiming without evidence theres a crime emergency in the district. The White House has said the influx of troops and officers will be on patrol 24/7, and so far, theyve been met with protesters and hecklers. Related: Beto O'Rourke Breaks Down Why Ted Cruz Is A Curse Upon The People Of Texas In her video, Pirro appeared eager to make an example of Dunn and to demonstrate how prosecutors can hit protesters with outsized penalties. According to the court filing, Dunn was pointing and shouting at Customs and Border Protection Agent Gregory Lairmore to express his opposition toward the agents deployment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fuck you! You fucking fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city! Dunn allegedly said while standing near multiple officers on a street in D.C. As captured in an Instagram video, a man in a pink collared shirt, identified by authorities as Dunn, can be seen throwing a Subway sandwich at Lairmores chest, and the sandwich then falls to the ground. The man takes off running and is pursued by the officers, including Lairmore, who appears unharmed. Screenshots from an Instagram video show Dunn allegedly throwing the sandwich. Court filing Dunn later allegedly told a D.C. Metropolitan police officer, I did it. I threw a sandwich, according to the filing. He has not spoken publicly on the incident and does not yet have an attorney listed in court records. A felony charge could mean a much harsher punishment, including up to a year in jail along with potential fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge has prompted an outcry on social media with people noting that Dunn is facing a significant penalty while federal agents, including CBP officers who have been caught on video using force against immigrants, face little accountability. More on U.S. News U.S. Producer Prices Surge In July As Trump Tariffs Push Costs Higher Shock Report: Metas AI Rules Have Let Bots Hold Sensual Chats With Kids, Offer False Medical Info DOJ Takes Official Control Over DC Police, Cancels Order Limiting Immigration Enforcement Read the original on HuffPost Illinois Democrats brought some of their biggest names to Springfield Tuesday to call attention to the massive cuts that will take effect in the coming years for programs that benefit low-income communities. At one event, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin and U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski hosted the Democratic leader of the U.S. House, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, for a roundtable discussion at a Head Start school to talk about cuts to early childhood education and the food assistance program known as SNAP. And at a separate event, Durbin joined Sen. Tammy Duckworth at a Springfield hospital to call attention to the impact health care providers will experience from cuts in federal funding for Medicaid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those cuts, along with a package of tax cuts, were all included in a massive domestic policy bill that the Trump administration pushed through Congress last month known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Its going to be a tough election for this president because he took the wrong approach when it came to the big and beautiful bill, Durbin told reporters at the Head Start program. The American people do not want to see us cut back in the fundamentals in health care, in services of hospitals, to give tax breaks to the wealthiest people. Tuesdays events came as Democrats prepared for the annual Governors Day at the Illinois State Fair, an event where they typically showcase their slate of candidates for the next election and try to stir up public enthusiasm for the race. Jeffries, of New York, stands to become the next speaker of the U.S. House if Democrats win back control of the chamber in 2026. He is scheduled to be the keynote speaker Wednesday morning at a brunch hosted by the Illinois Democratic County Chairs Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the public scene, the one big, ugly bill, which is now law, is deeply unpopular, Jeffries said, referring to public opinion polls. Because the American people dont like the fact that theyre ripping health care away from millions of people, stealing food from the mouths of children, and all of this is being done to reward their billionaire donors with massive tax breaks while exploding the debt by more than $3 trillion. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, left, and Sen. Dick Durbin, center, meet with Springfield-area hospital leaders at Springfield Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025. Health care implications Durbin and Duckworth also met with the leaders of Springfield-area health care providers to seek guidance on the problems they anticipate facing as a result of the bills Medicaid cuts, including hospital closures. There are places that will not survive, Durbin said. We know they will not survive, and the impact its going to have on real people, on families and on the economic future of the communities that lose these facilities is going to be felt for a long, long time. Hospital leaders said theyre concerned about declining funding, but also patients who lose coverage and delay care, which leads to more expensive care for more serious problems in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 330,000 Illinoisians could lose Medicaid coverage as a result of the bill while several hospitals in rural areas face closure, according to the governors office. The senators said they believe congressional Republicans will eventually be pressured into undoing many of the cuts in the bill, but that persuasion will have to come from their constituents. Duckworth suggested every health care office put flyers in the waiting room explaining the impacts of the bill, which she hopes would prompt patients to contact lawmakers. Durbin said he believes favorable results for Democrats in the 2026 election could make Republicans responsive to concerns about the bill and force Congress to make changes if Democrats control the House. Ive been through a lot of election cycles, and I will tell you, the House members are the most sensitive because many of them havent been there that long, and theyre in marginal districts, Durbin said. So I think this could turn out to be a movement to change that bill back, and soon. Durbin said that even in a scenario with Trump in the White House and Democrats controlling the House, he expects there would be bipartisan negotiations that could undo parts of the bill. This is an adapted excerpt from the Aug. 13 episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki. On Tuesday, immigrant rights advocates scored a major win against the Trump administration in court. Last month, video footage from inside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility in Lower Manhattan sparked public outrage. The video, captured by an immigrant who managed to sneak a cell phone into the facility, showed more than a dozen men sleeping on the floor in an overcrowded holding cell. One immigrant can be heard saying that they are being treated like dogs. At some point, the camera pans to show that the room where these men are being kept is also their bathroom, with what appears to be only one working toilet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video is the only glimpse we have been able to get of the facility on the 10th floor of 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan, where ICE has been holding an untold number of immigrants, despite the facility not being designed to do so. For months now, multiple members of Congress have shown up at the facility demanding entry. Legally, any federal detention facility must allow members of Congress inside at any time so they can conduct oversight. But over and over again, ICE has denied them entry. At the same time, immigrants and their advocates have alleged the facility is overcrowded and unsanitary, and that immigrants held there are being denied access to medicine and lawyers. The government had been adamant in denying those claims, calling them categorically false. I say the government had been denying those claims, because on Tuesday, after a government lawyer was forced to confirm or deny those allegations in court, they conceded that all of those allegations were, in fact, true. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government did not dispute that there were no beds or sleeping mats in the facility, or that immigrants were not given access to medication, or that immigrants were denied in-person access to legal representation. In fact, the governments lawyer told the judge that the administration obviously shares the belief that the conditions at 26 Federal Plaza need to be humane. Adding: Inhumane conditions are not appropriate and should not be tolerated. After hearing the government concede all of the allegations were categorically true, the federal judge in the case ordered ICE to improve conditions in the facility immediately. That means fewer crowded cells and more access to medical care and attorneys. It means immigrants must be provided with clean bedding and mats to sleep on, as well as soap, towels, toilet paper, toothbrushes and toothpaste. That is what it looks like when pushback works. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com There may not be cake, flowers and bubbly, but this week marks a notable anniversary. It's 100 days since Reform UK made a significant breakthrough at the ballot box, when they snatched control of a number of local authorities including Lincolnshire County Council from the Conservatives. One of the headline victories for the party led by Nigel Farage was the election of Dame Andrea Jenkyns as the first ever Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former Conservative MP was always the always the firm favourite to secure the new role, given Reform's rise in the opinion polls in the run-up to the local elections on 1 May. So what has Dame Andrea achieved so far? In a fast-moving video on social media, the mayor said she had been "banging the drum for Lincolnshire" and "planting the seeds of growth" during her initial three months in the role. But with a party that could be described as Marmite many love them, others hate them there will always be sceptical voices watching their every move. Critics of Reform UK claim their opposition to net zero policies could jeopardise future investment in renewable energy and put thousands of jobs at risk from the Humber to The Wash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a recent press conference in Lincolnshire, senior party figures said they had "declared war" on green energy projects. Dame Andrea has been a vocal critic of solar farms and even pledged her support for fracking. The mayor recently compared the fight against green energy to the battle faced by Bomber Command, which flew from Lincolnshire during World War Two. Labour MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes Melanie Onn said: "After 100 days I'm still no clearer about what positive aspects Reform mayors are going to bring to our area. "I really worry that turning their backs on any form of industry means that we are not going to get the economic benefits that devolution should bring." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dame Andrea has insisted she will not be deterred by her critics and will push ahead with a number of projects that will "turbo charge" the economy of Greater Lincolnshire. The mayor is promoting a Great Exhibition for Lincolnshire in October, which she says will promote investment and trade across "our amazing county". Also scheduled for the autumn is a plan to create a Transport for Lincolnshire board, which will push for more investment into the county's infrastructure, particularly on rural bus services. The mayor has also pledged that in the next 12 months, work will start on building a Veteran's Village in Lincolnshire, to accommodate those who have served in the armed forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dame Andrea will serve a four year term as head of a combined authority, with a budget of 24m a year. Whether you like her - or not Dame Andrea Jenkyns continues to be seen by many as an important flag bearer in Reform UK's transition from a party of protest to a party of power. Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here. Download the BBC News app from the App Store for iPhone and iPad or Google Play for Android devices More on this story Related internet links WEST ORANGE, N.J. (PIX11) New Jerseys gubernatorial race is heating up, with both candidates hitting the campaign trail. On Thursday, Democratic candidate and Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill hosted a campaign event centered on small businesses at Llewellyn Parq Bar and Grill in West Orange. More Local News It shouldnt be so hard to operate here in such an innovative State, said Sherrill. Sherrill unveiled what she calls her Save You Time and Money agenda, addressing the red tape that often beleaguers small business owners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By modernizing our agencies and cutting through red tape, we can truly make a difference for New Jersey families, said Sherrill. She says if elected, she will make it easier to start a business by slashing license wait times and eliminating registration fees. When it comes to cutting State government red tape, she says she plans to create a customer service approach at State agencies. Im going to have a huge culture shift, said Sherrill, so that you can have a government that helps get to yes, works with you, to make sure you understand what is needed to get through the process, cut down on unnecessary permitting and red tape times and make sure everyone ahs the opportunity to have a better customer service experience. The campaign for Republican candidate, former State Assemblyman Jack Ciattarelli, told PIX11 news he rolled out a platform to promote a customer-first initiative in all State offices, and has pledged to cut New Jerseys business tax in half. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His campaign told us in a statement, in part: If NJ wants to make things better for small business, they should elect two-time success small business owner Jack Ciattarelli, not a DC politician like Mikie Sherrill. Ciattarelli is also hitting the road with plans to hold a rally in Gloucester County on Sunday. New Jersey voters will decide on their next Governor on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4th. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. A dozen Jersey Shore towns will celebrate the Wedding of the Sea this week, an annual tradition that marks the Feast of Assumption. From Cape May County to Monmouth County, the Blessing of the Sea or Wedding of the Sea is a Catholic tradition complete with processions, prayers and the symbolic tossing of a flowered wreath into the ocean. Aug. 15 is a Catholic holy day called the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sea ceremony, rooted in a 15th-century Italian legend, involves blessing the ocean and throwing a wreath or ring into the sea. Visitors use containers to scoop water from the ocean and take it home. The events are open to the public. Heres a list of Jersey Shore towns that are participating: Atlantic City Date: Friday, Aug. 15 Location: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Schedule: 10 a.m.: Mass in the Seminole Ballroom, Hard Rock 11 a.m: Buffet lunch at the Fresh Harvest Buffet 1:30 p.m: 57th Annual Wedding of the Sea at Pennsylvania Avenue beach, led by Diocese of Camden Bishop Joseph A. Williams. Belmar Date: Aug. 15 Location: St. Rose, 603 7th Ave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schedule: 9 a.m. Mass followed by procession to the beach for the Blessing of the Water and Boats. Along the procession route, congregants will pray the rosary and sing Marian hymns. Everyone is invited to bring flowers to carry in the procession. The flowers will be blessed after Mass and then after the blessing of the marina, the flowers are thrown into the water. Cape May Date and time: Aug. 15 Location: Our Lady Star of the Sea, 525 Washington St. Schedule: After the 11 a.m. Mass a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be carried in a procession down Ocean Street from the church to the beach for the traditional Wedding of the Sea ceremony. Lavalette Date: Aug. 15 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: St. Pio Church, 103 Washington Ave. Schedule: 5 p.m. Mass followed by a procession to the beach and Blessing of the Water. Dinner to follow in St. Pio Parish Hall with tickets available for purchase at $15 per person at the parish office. Make Checks payable to St. Pio Parish. For more information, call 908-902-6868 Long Branch Date: Friday, Aug. 15 Location: St. Michael Parish, 800 Ocean Ave. N. Schedule: Diocese of Trenton Bishop David M. OConnell will join the community of St. Michael Parish, West End, where he will celebrate the 12:15 p.m. Mass, and then lead a procession across the street for the Blessing of the Ocean and to the deck of the pool overlooking the beach at the Imperial House Apartments. Manasquan Date: August 15 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: St. Denis, 90 Union Ave. Schedule: 6:30 p.m. Mass in Our Lady Star of the Sea Chapel, 554 E. Main St. A blessing of flowers and herbs will be held at the end of Mass. Congregants can then join in a procession to the beach for the Blessing of the Water. Middletown Date: Friday, Aug. 15 Location: St. Catherine Laboure, 110 Bray Ave. Schedule: 6:30 p.m. Mass, with a procession immediately following to the bay. Ocean City Date: Aug. 15 Location: St. Damien Parish, 13th and Wesley Avenue. Schedule: Following the 10 a.m. Mass, visitors will process to the beach where the Rev. Tom Newton, will get into a lifeguard boat and toss a ring-shaped wreath of flowers into the water to symbolize the wedding of the Church with the sea. Point Pleasant Beach Date: Aug. 15 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: St. Peter Church, 406 Forman Ave. Schedule: 9 a.m. Mass and Blessing of the Ocean, Jenkinsons Pavilion, 300 Ocean Ave. Sea Isle City Date: Friday, Aug. 15 Location: St. Joseph Catholic Church, 4308 Landis Ave. Schedule: 4 p.m.: Mass 5 p.m.: Procession from the church to 44th Street Beach for the Annual Blessing of the Ocean. Seaside Park Date: Aug. 15 Location: St. Junipero Serra, 50 E. St. Schedule: 10 a.m. Mass, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 100 Grant Ave., Seaside Heights, followed by a procession to the beach and blessing of the water. Wildwood Date and Time: Thursday, Aug. 14, at 4:30 p.m. Location: Notre Dame de la Mer Parish, St. Ann Church, 2901 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood, NJ. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Event: Vigil Mass, procession through the streets, and the Wedding of the Sea blessing ceremony on the beach. Procession: The procession will include the Blessed Virgin Mary and her Mysteries of the Rosary. Beach transportation will be available for those in need. Holy water bottles will be available for purchase in the church vestibule of St. Ann Church. Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff. The more than $700 million in assets the United States says it has confiscated from Venezuelan ruler Nicolas Maduro includes multiple luxury properties in Florida, Attorney General Pam Bondi said Wednesday. Bondis remarks to Spanish language outlet Fox Noticias followed Fridays announcement that the U.S. had doubled the bounty for the Venezuelan strongman to a record-setting $50 million for any information leading to his capture. At the time, she described Maduro as one of the worlds top drug kingpins and said his trafficking organization poses a direct threat to the United States. Bondi said the United States has already seized a number of high-value assets linked to Maduro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These assets include two multimillion-dollar jets, multiple homes, a mansion in the Dominican Republic, several million-dollar homes in Florida, a horse farm, nine vehicles, luxury cars, and millions of dollars in jewelry and cash, she said. Yet his reign of terror continues... and his organized crime operation continues to function. Bondi did not provide details about the specific locations of the Florida properties. In the interview, she described Maduros network as an organized crime operation, no different than the mafia, claiming that it is deeply embedded within the Venezuelan military and closely tied to some of the most violent criminal groups in the hemisphere. In announcing the new bounty last week, Bondi said Maduro leads the Cartel of the Suns, a powerful narcotics organization that operates within Venezuelas armed forces while ruling the country and maintaining partnerships with the nations notorious Tren de Aragua gang, Mexicos Sinaloa Cartel and other international syndicates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is one of the worlds biggest drug traffickers and a threat to our national security, Bondi said. Thats why weve doubled his bounty to $50 million. A federal indictment in New York traces Maduros rise inside the Cartel of the Suns. Prosecutors say that after the 2013 death of Hugo Chavez, Maduro evolved from a facilitator into the cartels top leader, merging its operations with the Venezuelan state to shield it from prosecution. Court documents also claim the cartels objective went beyond profit, accusing it of seeking to flood the United States with cocaine as a means of causing social harm. Intelligence reports estimate that at least 250 tons of cocaine transited through Venezuela annually as of five years ago, but the volume has possibly doubled since to compensate for the collapse of oil income caused by U.S. sanctions. Bondi emphasized that despite the massive asset seizures, Maduros organization continues to traffic narcotics on a global scale, using state infrastructure to protect and expand its reach. We will not stop until he is brought to justice, she said. The $50 million rewardavailable to anyone worldwide who can provide actionable intelligence leading to Maduros arrest and extraditionis the highest ever offered by the United States for a sitting head of state. It surpasses the $25 million previously offered for Maduro and eclipses past bounties placed on figures such as former Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega and Mexican drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman. Jailed Hong Kong pro-democracy tycoon Jimmy Lai could die in in prison if found guilty, his son told the BBC. Sebastien Lai was speaking to the BBC's Danny Vincent ahead of the final stage of his father's trial for national security offences. The 77-year-old British citizen is accused of colluding with foreign forces, which he denies. He faces life in prison if convicted. He has been in jail since December 2020, serving time for other convictions related to his role in the city's pro-democracy protests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was due in court on Thursday for closing arguments but the hearing has been postponed because of a typhoon. Critics say the city's controversial national security law targets those who resist Beijing's control - but authorities argue the law maintains stability. Read more: Jimmy Lai: The jailed Hong Kong rebel mogul The Colona Fire Department will see a leadership transition later next month. The Colona Community Fire Protection District Board of Trustees and the department announced that Fire Chief John Swan will step down after 37 years of service, effective September 10. Chief Swans tenure has been marked by an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the Colona community and the advancement of the fire service. Colona Fire Chief John Swan (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Chief Swan has been a pillar of our department and community for nearly four decades, said a post on the departments Facebook page. His leadership has shaped countless firefighters and ensured the highest standards of protection for our residents. We are incredibly grateful for his immense contributions and wish him a well-deserved retirement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Swan became a firefighter in September of 1976. He told Our Quad Cities News that he was asked to join the fire department after helping to save some kids from a canal. After a couple of years he decided he would join. The fact that I was able to help pull two kids out of a canal that were drowning, we actually saved their lives. That said, well, if I can help the community that way, maybe I extend my services for a few years. 49 years later, Im still here. said Swan. Its been a golden experience ever since that. he added. Colona Fire Chief John Swan (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Swan says he never expected to be with the fire department for so long but he stayed for the people. Its the camaraderie, working with the men and women here at this fire department, that kept me on. I was happy to serve all these years and continue to be very happy about where Im at here today. He says hes seen both the ups and downs of life in his time as a firefighter. Its been real thrilling working in this service. The highs and lows, people coming into this world and people leaving this world. Deputy Fire Chief Kirk Wyffels will be officially sworn in as the new Fire Chief of the Colona Fire Department on September 10. Wyffels has been a vital part of the department since 2003, bringing a wealth of experience, knowledge and an extensive array of certifications to his new role. He has also involved with numerous state organizations and special operations teams, including MABAS Hazmat, MABAS TRT, Illinois Fire Chiefs, Illinois Fire Inspectors Association and the International Association of Arson Investigators Illinois Chapter. Colona Fire Department Building (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Wyffels is highly respected and has earned comprehensive qualifications across all facets of firefighting and emergency management. His certifications include Basic Operations Firefighter, Firefighter 2 & 3, EMT-Basic, Instructor 1 & 2, Inspector 1 & 2, Investigator 1, 2 & 3, Fire Officer 1 & 2, Fire Prevention, Tactics and Strategy 1 & 2 and Management 1-4. He is Blue Card Incident Command Certified, a NFA Incident Safety Officer and holds certifications in Hazardous Materials Awareness, Operations, Technician (A & B) and Incident Command. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes also well qualified in Technical Rescue (Awareness, Rope, Confined Space, Trench Operations & Technician), various ICS levels (100, 200, 300, 400, 700, 800), FEMA PIO and specialized areas like Emergency Response to Terrorism, Farm Extrication & Trauma, Fire Service Vehicle Operations Instructor, Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Specialist, Public School Inspector, 30 Hour OSHA, 40hr MSHA and more. He is an American Heart Association CPR/AED First Aid Provider and Instructor, and is currently pursuing an associates degree in fire administration as well as his CFO (Chief Fire Officer) designation. Wyffels has lived in Colona for over 30 years. He and his wife, Laura, have four children Levi, Atilah, Hendrix and Ember and their Dalmatian, Blaze. I am deeply honored and humbled to be entrusted with the leadership of the Colona Fire Department, he said. I look forward to building upon the strong foundation laid by Chief Swan and working collaboratively with our dedicated firefighters and the community to ensure continued excellence in emergency services. A public meet & greet for incoming Chief Wyffels and honoring outgoing Chief Swan with cookies, cake and punch will be held on September 27th from 1-3 p.m. Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com Colona Fire Chief John Swan (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com Colona Fire Chief John Swan (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Colona Fire Chief John Swan(Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department Building (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com Colona Fire Department (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com Colona Fire Department Building (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department Building (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Department Building (Gabe Zwierzynski OurQuadCities.com) Colona Fire Chief John Swan Colona Fire Chief John Swan Colona Fire Chief John Swan Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ashwin Ramaswami, the state senate Democratic candidate who challenged Shawn Still for the Johns Creek district, is suing his former opponent alleging defamation in campaign documents. According to the federal lawsuit, filed by attorneys on behalf of Ramaswami last Friday, Still and Landmark Communications, Inc. paid for and sent out defamatory mailers during the campaign cycle, which implies that Ashwin was calling young children to solicit sex. In the federal lawsuit, photographs of campaign mailers that say Ramaswami solicited children and students at schools in the North Fulton and Forsyth communities are submitted as evidence. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Ramaswamis lawsuit accuses Still and Landmark Communications of harming his reputation by using campaign flyers to imply he was a pedophile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result of these alleged harms, Ramaswami is seeking a jury trial against both Still and Landmark Communications, seeking damages in excess of $75,000, in addition to punitive damages, litigation expenses and attorneys fees. Channel 2 Action News reached out to Ramaswamis attorneys, Landmark Communications and state Sen. Shawn Still. Ramaswamis legal counsel and Landmark declined to comment. Channel 2 Action News has not received a response from Still, as of the time of writing this report. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court filing also says some of the flyers contain at least five false statements while others say Ramaswami was caught soliciting children in local schools. Ramaswamis attorneys assert in the filing that all of the claims are false. Whether someone is attempting to solicit sex from school-aged children is not a matter of opinion, but of verifiable fact or falsity, Ramaswamis lawsuit says. The lawsuit also says the statements that Ashwin was caught soliciting children in local schools and tried to solicit students in North Fulton and Forsyth Schools are false in numerous ways. First, no one caught Ashwin doing anything. He made a publicly available open records request in his own name. Second, the open records request did not in any way solicit children. Third, the common usage and understanding of soliciting children is seeking to have sex with children, which Ashwin was not attempting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramaswamis lawsuit also says that statements on the mailers in question saying that the candidate had made an open records request, asking for the names and numbers of all students enrolled in high schools is false as he did not request student contact information. The lawsuit says the false aspect of this statement is intentionally designed to lend itself to the gist and sting that Ashwin was attempting to solicit children for sex. More materials cited in the lawsuit say Ramaswamis campaign tried to bypass principals in schools on private social media, which attorneys say is also false, noting that the social media in question was a publicly accessible Discord server for his campaign and supporters. Ramaswamis lawsuit also accuses Still and Landmark of making a variety of statements in the flyers and online that were meant to harm his reputation, including some that were made to not appear as campaign advertisements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing state statutes, the lawsuit also claims that because the campaign materials didnt have any groups claiming responsibility, they must have been produced and sent out by Still. The flyers do not identify who paid for them, the lawsuit says. Under Georgia law, if an independent or leadership committee pays for a campaign flyer, the flyer itself must identify the committee who paid for it. No similar requirement applies to campaign flyers paid for by candidates themselves. Ramaswamis attorneys wrote in the lawsuit that since the flyers do not identify who paid for them, it demonstrates they were not paid for by a committee or independent but instead by Still. Additionally, Still was asked why he was sending the flyers and responded that it was because Ashwin was attacking him so much that Ashwin deserves it, the lawsuit reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramaswamis opponent also persistently refused to disavow the flyers, according to the court filing. Ramaswami, through the lawsuit, accuses both Still and Landmark of acting with actual malice, kn[owing] that the statements and impressions they left were false and that Still knew that Ashwin had not been attempting to solicit children for sex. The lawsuit says the actions of Still and Landmark caused reputational damage to Ramaswami, saying hed been called a pedo, a slang version of pedophile, and other variants with more aggressive language throughout the campaign cycle after the mailers were sent out. A survey conducted by Ramaswamis team, which asked what voters recall about hearing or seeing or reading about the candidate, said theyd seen that he was creepy trying to get kids school info and his opponent called him a pedophile, among others. The lawsuit says this was confirmation of the reputational damage done by the flyers to Ramaswami. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- The annual Spooky to be Hungry Drive is coming up in October. This drive unites neighbors, co-workers, schools, and local businesses together to scare away hunger But Golden harvest is in need of spooky captains. Captains encourage friendly competition and find creative ways to raise funds and awareness. And these captains are the heart of the effort. Theres no limit to as many people that want to come on board. We need captains for neighborhoods, captains for businesses, captains for organizations and captains for school. And we need captains in Augusta, in Richmond County, Columbia County and Aiken Counties, said Doressa Hawes, director of corporate partnerships and volunteerism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The drive starts October 1st, click here 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 WJBF. As the site for one of Ukraines main ports, Odesa is a key target for Russia. We went out with a mobile anti-drone unit charged with intercepting attacks on the city. The units work is dictated by what the team can see on a radar feed displayed on an iPad. In minute detail, the tablet tracks the location of Russian planes and missiles, updating every few seconds. With such detailed information in their hands, you might think these fighters have a huge advantage but hitting a moving target is harder than it looks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Click above to watch the video in full. To hear more about this story listen to our award-winning podcast, Ukraine: The Latest. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. JOPLIN, Mo. Back to school began Thursday for Joplin faculty and staff, a day designed just for them. At least part of the day. Prior to professional development meetings for teachers, all district employees were welcomed back during the annual Rah Rah ceremony at the high schools Performing Arts Center. A fun event where Howie Nunnelly from Good Morning Four States / our sister-station KODE helped fire them up. They also got updates on whats happened over the summer, as well as testimonials from a number of younger students as they, too are getting ready to head back to class next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So this is my, I guess, 12th year with the district. So at this point, I know a bunch of people at a bunch of different schools and usually this is like the one time of the year. Well, Ill actually get to see every person that I know. So its cool for that, said Luke Smith, Irving Elem. Special Ed. Teacher. Any time you start off every day or a month or a year or whatever time period youre talking about, itsits critical to really reflect on what youre doing, to celebrate whats happened. And but also think about whats ahead. And this was an opportunity for us to do that, said Dr. Kerry Sachetta, Superintendent. The first day of school for the district is next 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 KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. Controversial Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson is expected to take time off from everything after being exposed to a particularly moldy environment, his daughter says. Mikhaila Peterson took to X on Wednesday afternoon to reveal the 63-year-old influencer-academic has been forced to postpone his podcasts and move his European tour after a severe flare-up of symptoms she said is connected with chronic inflammatory response syndrome. The elder Peterson has openly discussed his experience with CIRS, a condition allegedly linked to mold exposure and immune system dysfunction, and claimed he was diagnosed in 2018. It is not an officially recognized medical diagnosis or considered a distinct disease by any significant public health agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hey guys, @jordanbpeterson is taking some time off of everything, Mikhaila Peterson wrote in a post retweeted by her father. Over the last year or so, hes been feeling the impact of CIRS more and more, she continued. Recently, he was exposed to a particularly moldy environment while helping clean out my grandfathers house after he passed away, which severely flared symptoms. Jordan Petersons daughter, Mikhaila, said that the psychologist is taking a break from everything (Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire) CIRS is believed to be a condition where the immune system reacts abnormally after exposure to toxins, like those from mold in damp or water-damaged buildings. Symptoms include fatigue, neurological issues, pain, and sensitivity to light, according to one review published in the Annals of Medicine and Surgery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While many physicians outside of environmental medicine view CIRS as controversial due to a lack of empirical evidence and ambiguous diagnostic criteria, Mikhaila Peterson called the conditions lack of recognition absurd. The 33-year-old YouTuber said her father has been suffering badly from CIRS since 2017, a year before he said he was diagnosed. She said that Peterson only ate meat, which helped curb symptoms, but added that it hasnt been enough recently. Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, who coined the term CIRS in the 1990s and spoke with Peterson on his podcast last year, says treatment involves eliminating exposure to the triggering biotoxins and supporting the bodys detoxification and immune function. Hey guys, @jordanbpeterson is taking some time off of everything. He was diagnosed with CIRS (chronic inflammatory response syndrome) due to a genetic predisposition that causes the immune system to have an inability to identify and detoxify mold/bacteria in indoor air (the Mikhaila Peterson (@MikhailaFuller) August 13, 2025 Praying we can treat him quickly and the medical community can be more aware of CIRS and building codes can change (add ERVs to HVACs) so we can get fresh air indoors, Mikhaila Peterson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The younger Peterson said her fathers ill health is not connected to his akathisia a restlessness condition linked with benzodiazepine withdrawal and claimed he is not on any medication. Peterson was allegedly diagnosed with akathisia in 2020 after being treated for insomnia and depression, and later underwent a benzodiazepine detox in Russia, which he said included being placed in a medically induced nine-day coma. Peterson in floods of tears while speaking to Piers Morgan on his show Uncensored in April (Piers Morgan Uncensored/Youtube) In recent years, Peterson has gained a reputation for frequent emotional outbursts and weeping during interviews, which his daughter appeared to link to his condition. CIRS is also the explanation behind recent cancelled shows, cancelled events, sporadic appearance of being rundown and general weepiness (caused by pain), she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other conservative media figures have rallied around Peterson, wishing for his quick recovery. Dr. Peterson is not just a mentor and colleague, he is a dear friend. I am praying for his speedy recovery and sending my best to his family. Refuah shelaima! wrote right-wing comedian and podcaster Ben Shapiro. Dr. Peterson has helped millions of people across the globe navigate the toughest of circumstances, this is our opportunity to return the favor, tweeted Shapiros media company, The Daily Wire. Please join the Daily Wire team in sending prayers and well wishes as he takes the necessary time to rest and recover. The Independent has reached out to Petersons representatives for more information. TALLAHASSEE A U.S. district judge Wednesday said a 2023 Florida law restricting pronouns that transgender teachers can use to identify themselves violates a federal civil-rights law but the outcome of the issue might ultimately hinge on an appeals-court ruling in a Georgia case. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker sided with Hillsborough County teacher Katie Wood and a Lee County teacher, identified as Jane Doe, in finding that the state law discriminates in violation of what is known as Section VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. That section bars employment discrimination because of a persons race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Florida law requires teachers to use pronouns that align with their sex assigned at birth. As an example, Walker wrote, the law led Wood, a transgender woman, to erase her pronouns and title on a classroom whiteboard and begin using the title Teacher instead of Ms. with her students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker wrote that the state law alters the terms and conditions of plaintiffs employment. Compliance means plaintiffs, transgender teachers, are forbidden from using their preferred pronouns and titles with students. Noncompliance can result in disciplinary violations, which in turn can lead to suspension or revocation of plaintiffs teaching certifications or termination. Therefore, because compliance with (the law) is a condition of plaintiffs employment, and because (the law) discriminates based on sex with respect to the terms and conditions of plaintiffs employment, it violates Title VII, Walker wrote. But while finding improper discrimination, Walker paused further action in the case as the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals considers a Georgia case, known as Lange v. Houston County. Walker wrote that the outcome of the Georgia case, which involves an alleged Title VII violation against a transgender employee of a sheriffs office, could be determinative in the Florida teacher case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judicial economy demands that this court (Walker) decline to issue an injunction or try the issue of damages at this juncture and stay this case pending resolution of the en banc rehearing in Lange, he wrote, using a term for a rehearing by the full appeals court. Walker last year issued a preliminary injunction to block enforcement of the pronoun law against Wood because he said it violated her First Amendment rights. But a divided panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court on July 2 overturned the injunction. The panels majority said Wood cannot show, with respect to the expression at issue here, that she was speaking as a private citizen rather than a government employee when she interacted with students in her classroom. As a result, it concluded that the state restrictions did not violate her speech rights. The overturning of the preliminary injunction, however, did not end the lawsuit, which names as defendants the Florida Department of Education, other state education agencies and officials, the Hillsborough County School Board and the Lee County School Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker on Wednesday ruled on motions for summary judgment, which involve issues that can be resolved without going to trial. Armed with last months appeals-court opinion, Walker rejected the plaintiffs First Amendment arguments, while leaving unresolved issues about whether the teachers equal-protection rights were violated. The pronoun restrictions were part of a series of controversial measures that Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republican lawmakers have approved in recent years that focus on transgender people and have drawn legal challenges. For example, they passed a measure aimed at preventing minors from receiving puberty blockers and hormone therapy to treat gender dysphoria. TALLAHASSEE A U.S. district judge Wednesday said a 2023 Florida law restricting pronouns that transgender teachers can use to identify themselves violates a federal civil-rights law but the outcome of the issue might ultimately hinge on an appeals-court ruling in a Georgia case. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker sided with Hillsborough County teacher Katie Wood and a Lee County teacher, identified as Jane Doe, in finding that the state law discriminates in violation of what is known as Section VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. That section bars employment discrimination because of a persons race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The Florida law requires teachers to use pronouns that align with their sex assigned at birth. As an example, Walker wrote, the law led Wood, a transgender woman, to erase her pronouns and title on a classroom whiteboard and begin using the title Teacher instead of Ms. with her students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker wrote that the state law alters the terms and conditions of plaintiffs employment. Compliance means plaintiffs, transgender teachers, are forbidden from using their preferred pronouns and titles with students. Noncompliance can result in disciplinary violations, which in turn can lead to suspension or revocation of plaintiffs teaching certifications or termination. Therefore, because compliance with (the law) is a condition of plaintiffs employment, and because (the law) discriminates based on sex with respect to the terms and conditions of plaintiffs employment, it violates Title VII, Walker wrote. But while finding improper discrimination, Walker paused further action in the case as the full 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals considers a Georgia case, known as Lange v. Houston County. Walker wrote that the outcome of the Georgia case, which involves an alleged Title VII violation against a transgender employee of a sheriffs office, could be determinative in the Florida teacher case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judicial economy demands that this court (Walker) decline to issue an injunction or try the issue of damages at this juncture and stay this case pending resolution of the en banc rehearing in Lange, he wrote, using a term for a rehearing by the full appeals court. Walker last year issued a preliminary injunction to block enforcement of the pronoun law against Wood because he said it violated her First Amendment rights. But a divided panel of the Atlanta-based appeals court on July 2 overturned the injunction. The panels majority said Wood cannot show, with respect to the expression at issue here, that she was speaking as a private citizen rather than a government employee when she interacted with students in her classroom. As a result, it concluded that the state restrictions did not violate her speech rights. The overturning of the preliminary injunction, however, did not end the lawsuit, which names as defendants the Florida Department of Education, other state education agencies and officials, the Hillsborough County School Board and the Lee County School Board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walker on Wednesday ruled on motions for summary judgment, which involve issues that can be resolved without going to trial. Armed with last months appeals-court opinion, Walker rejected the plaintiffs First Amendment arguments, while leaving unresolved issues about whether the teachers equal-protection rights were violated. The pronoun restrictions were part of a series of controversial measures that Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republican lawmakers have approved in recent years that focus on transgender people and have drawn legal challenges. For example, they passed a measure aimed at preventing minors from receiving puberty blockers and hormone therapy to treat gender dysphoria. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. A judge has agreed to allow conspiracy theorist Alex Jones to sell his Infowars business in order to help pay damages to the families of Sandy Hook victims. Judge Maya Guerra Gamble ruled this week that Joness company Free Speech Systems will be turned over to a court-appointed receiver and be responsible for selling off its assets, CNN reported. The satirical website The Onion last year put in a bid to purchase Infowars, before a federal bankruptcy judge blocked the sale citing a lack of transparency in the auction process at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guerra Gambles ruling clears the way for The Onion to revive its bid for the far-right media platform. Jones, a vocal supporter of President Trump, is known for his peddling of unfounded theories about liberals and media figures and in 2022 was found liable by a judge of defaming the families of victims of the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, where a gunman killed 26 people. Jones was ordered to pay them hundreds of millions of dollars as a result. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ralph Menzies appears during his commutation hearing before the parole board at the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City as he petitions to stop his execution by firing squad on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (Pool photo by Bethany Baker/The Salt Lake Tribune) A judge has denied a request from Utah death row inmate Ralph Menzies to undergo another evaluation to see if hes competent to be executed, clearing a major hurdle for the state to proceed with his firing squad execution. Utah 3rd District Judge Matthew Bates denied the 67-year-old inmates request on Thursday morning, writing that he is unpersuaded by the claim that Menzies, who has dementia, is mentally unfit to be executed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State and federal law prohibit executing inmates who dont have a rational understanding of why theyre being executed, which essentially means they cant grasp the governments reasoning behind pursuing the death penalty. For much of the last year, attorneys have tried to argue that Menzies lacks that understanding. Menzies underwent a competency evaluation about a year ago, where doctors commissioned by the state, and his attorneys, reviewed the inmates cognitive abilities. In June, Bates ruled that he does have dementia, but was not incompetent. Menzies attorneys then filed a petition for another review in July, arguing that Menzies dementia has worsened thats what Bates denied on Thursday. Menzies, convicted of kidnapping and murdering Maurine Hunsaker in 1988, is scheduled to die on Sept. 5. His attorneys still have a pending appeal with the Utah Supreme Court, with arguments set for next week. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole is also holding a commutation hearing, where board members could vote to impose a life sentence without the possibility of parole (although that has never happened in Utah). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Bates ruling on Thursday allows the Utah Department of Corrections to continue moving forward with their plans to execute Menzies. Had they ruled in his favor, it would have likely paused execution proceedings, giving doctors time to conduct their evaluation. Both Menzies attorney and Matt Hunsaker Maruines son reacted to the news Thursday. Hunsaker said he was very pleased with the ruling. I had no doubt that Judge Bates spent a lot of time and a lot of effort, Hunsaker said. Im happy that this step is over and that we can now focus on getting this commutation (hearing) over as well. Eric Zuckerman, Menzies attorney, called the ruling disappointing, telling Utah News Dispatch that it may result in the execution of a man who does not understand why he is being executed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Mr. Menzies has not been evaluated by an independent evaluator for over a year and to proceed with his execution without an assessment of his current cognitive functioning offends the Constitution and will not serve the ends of justice, Zuckerman said. Bates, in his ruling, cited phone calls from the prison that show Menzies is still able to hold conversations and understand the basics of his case. There is a change in his voice, Bates writes, which sounds weaker and more tired. Even so, Menzies is able to speak with a normal speed. He is able to ask questions, track conversations, and laugh at appropriate times. He remembers names of family members, makes plans with family to visit, and even gives a brief update on his court case. Nothing in the current phone conversations demonstrate a substantial change in his cognitive functioning, the ruling reads. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bates also said theres a lack of evidence showing that hes disoriented, impaired or doesnt have a basic understanding of the concept of crime and punishment. He had a sense of time and place. He was not confused about who the examiners were, who he was, or where he was, Bates wrote. Instead, Bates found the reports and evidence submitted simply show that Menzies is physically struggling, with a memory that isnt as good as it used to be not enough to be deemed incompetent. Forgetfulness, an inability to concentrate, and a paucity of language do not amount to a lack of an ability to reach a rational understanding of the link between crime and punishment. Menzies has not alleged sufficient facts or provided sufficient evidence that raises a significant question of whether Menzies is incapable of understanding that he is being executed because he killed Maureen Hunsaker, Bates wrote. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE On Tuesday, a U.S. district judge had to order ICE to provide the bare minimum to detainees held at a federal building in downtown Manhattan. During a hearing regarding conditions at the building 26 Federal Plaza a government attorney admitted that detainees did not have access to sleeping mats, medication or more than two meals per day, CBS News reports. In a temporary order, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan ruled that ICE must provide clean bedding mats for each person after videos revealed that immigrants were sleeping directly on the floor. Kaplan also stated that each detainee should have an area of at least 50 square feet in floor space as well as access to soap, towels and toilet paper, among other fundamental necessities. Related: Jeannine Pirro Wants To Make An Example Of A Man Who Threw A Sandwich At An Officer Kaplans order follows a lawsuit from civil rights organizations, including the ACLU, which raised concerns about inhumane conditions at the federal facility, including that people were forced to sleep on concrete next to toilets, packed tightly in overcrowded cells and deprived of medication. Related: Immigrants At Florida Detention Facilities Faced Life-Threatening Medical Delays, Report Says A reported video of the facility obtained by the New York Immigration Coalition that was published in July also captured numerous detainees jammed inside one of the buildings rooms and sprawled on the ground with nothing but aluminum blankets. Related: 11 ICE Officers Are Stuck In A Shipping Container In Djibouti Tricia McLaughlin, the DHS assistant secretary of public affairs, has pushed back on the order, describing it as driven by complete fiction, despite the government lawyers description of the facilitys conditions. Related: 4 Escape ICE Facility Amid Detainee Uprising And Protest Outside Over Poor Conditions 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, McLaughlin said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That a judge had to require ICE to provide essential supplies and humane treatment to detainees underscores how the agency has reportedly skirted these obligations in multiple detention facilities. While detention spaces in 26 Federal Plaza, which also houses an immigration court, werent typically used to hold people for long periods, advocates say that people have been held there for more than a week and denied basic services in the interim. Kaplans order added that detainees should be able to request medical care and to access prescription medications that they had at the time of detention or that family members bring for them. It also stated that detainees should have the means to make confidential calls to legal counsel, something that advocates said they had been barred from doing previously. Related... Read the original on HuffPost Aug. 14 (UPI) -- A federal judge in a bench trial over the federal government's use of the California National Guard in Los Angeles in response to protests against President Donald Trump's immigration policies asked federal attorneys pointed questions about the legality of using the troops. The case is being heard in San Francisco by U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer, who asked the questions about what limits there are against using federal law enforcement to protect federal buildings, which the U.S. Department of Justice claims is the reason for the almost 300 Guard troops still deployed in the state. Trump deployed 4,000 guard troops and 700 Marines to the city in June. He said they were needed to protect federal property and law enforcement agents during the protests. Gov. Gavin Newsom rejected the use of his state's Guard and sued the federal government asking for an injunction that would limit the role of the federal government in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge's comments came on the third and final day of the trial. "Once you have a force in place, and maybe legitimately do so, and the threat that gave rise to the force in that place subsides, or is no longer of serious concern, what then?" Breyer asked a Justice Department attorney Wednesday. "How does one look at this national police force, which goes out of where the threat was and starts executing other laws?" "It's not that I'm sitting here insensitive to the risk of federal employees," he added. "I'm trying to see whether there are limits, any limits, to the use of federal force to ameliorate that risk." Newsom got a win in June with Breyer, but a federal appeals court said that the president can keep control of the federalized Guard while the legal case continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of Newsom's claims is that the troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act. It's an 1878 law that bans the use of the U.S. military for domestic law enforcement. Eric Hamilton, a Justice Department lawyer, argued that there is no precedent for the lawsuit, for injunctive relief or money damages under the act. He said that Newsom and California have not suffered the harm required to sue. But California Deputy Attorney General Meghan Strong, representing the state, said the government has never used the military this way before. "It is, in fact, the federal government who is engaged in unprecedented conduct," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So then what is the remedy?" Breyer asked Hamilton, mentioning presidential immunity from criminal prosecution. "You're saying there's a criminal remedy? The president can be prosecuted? You say that in light of the Supreme Court decision, the Trump decision. Isn't he immune?" "So that's it. Too bad. So sad. It's over," he said. "And that's the end of the case." Josh Kastenberg, a professor at the University of New Mexico Law School, told CBS News that Newsom's lawsuit is a longshot. "The constitution and the law and the facts are on Governor Newsom's side. But that doesn't mean he's going to win. Ever since World War II, the courts have embraced this military deference doctrine, which really is presidential deference in matters of military command and control." Breyer did not give a timeline for his ruling. U.S. District Judge David Proctor declined to impose a preliminary injunction blocking a law that bans diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, along with the teaching of divisive concepts, in public schools and universities. The judge ruled the University of Alabama professors and students did not meet the standard for a preliminary injunction after they argued the law violates their First Amendment rights. The case will continue but the law will remain in place for now. The Alabama law, which went into effect last October, prohibits schools from hosting or funding DEI programs and outlaws divisive concepts such as making one feel guilty or complicit about past or present actions because of their race or ethnicity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge argued this law does not prohibit professors from teaching these subjects, but it expressly permits classroom instruction that includes discussion of the listed concepts so long as the instruction is given in an objective manner without endorsement of the concepts. If, alternatively, the theory she teaches about is that there is empirical evidence that racism may be a cause for health disparities, or if she frames such teaching as merely a theory, she would not violate SB 129, the judge wrote in his decision. The professors argued they have changed lessons plans due to the law and that it violates their academic freedom. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. A federal judge dismissed a challenge to New Jersey's policy of storing blood drawn from newborns for disease screening. (Getty Images) A federal judge has rejected several New Jersey parents claims that the states practice of retaining blood samples from its mandatory newborn disease screening program violates their constitutional rights. U.S. District Court Judge Georgette Castner dismissed a lawsuit, first filed in 2023, that sought to stop the state from storing leftover blood spots, which hospitals take by pricking the heels of newborns, for uses beyond disease detection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Castner agreed in her Friday ruling that the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees parents right to the care, custody, and control of their children, but she declined to extend parental rights to the mere retention of residual dried blood spots. Such storage is not a medical choice, as the parents argued, so it doesnt violate their right to direct the medical care of their children under the Fourteenth Amendment, she added. The parents who sued Erica and Jeremiah Jedynak of Boonton and Hannah Lovaglio of Cranbury also failed to prove that they have a possessory interest in their childrens blood spots under the Fourth Amendment, which protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures, Castner added. While state law requires authorities to obtain informed consent before taking someones genetic material, the statute has several exclusions, including for the newborn disease screening program, the judge said. She also pointed to legislation now stalled in Trenton that would limit law enforcements use of DNA samples taken from newborns and crime victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fact that there is legislation regarding the retention of genetic information in the state of New Jersey in relation to the newborn screening program persuades this court, even more so, that such issues are better suited for public debate and legislative action and that judicial restraint is proper, Castner wrote. Castner gave the parents 30 days to respond to her ruling and warned that her dismissal would be final if they do not respond. Robert Frommer, the attorney who represents the parents, said they disagree with Castners decision and will respond. The judge largely focused on the blood spots retention in her ruling, rather than the initial blood-taking, but hospitals have not gotten voluntary informed consent from parents for either of those things, Frommer said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We fully believe that taking childrens blood without parental consent and then holding on to it for God knows how long is a violation of New Jerseyans constitutional rights, Frommer said. Its bizarre to conclude that people dont have a possessory interest in their own blood, he added. If parents have the right to direct the medical care of their children, that means you have to ask them for permission to take their blood. And that also means that they have a right to say what you can do with that blood. Sure, you can use it to test for diseases for my kid, but no, you cant hold on to it forever for scientific research, Frommer said. The case stems from a discovery the state Office of the Public Defender made in 2022 that state police used a babys stored blood spot to charge the childs father with a crime. The office and the New Jersey Monitor filed a separate lawsuit after learning the state retained such spots for 23 years without informing parents that they were stored and how they might be used. The Institute for Justice, the Virginia-based public interest nonprofit law firm where Frommer works, joined the cause in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuits drove the state attorney generals office to agree last summer to shorten retention to two years for healthy babies and 10 years for newborns who test positive for disease. Officials also revamped the programs public messaging, set new limits on how blood spots could be used (although they did not bar their use by law enforcement), and agreed to destroy all previously stored blood spots of children older than age 2. That destruction began in November, and the state reported that over 60% of such spots have been destroyed since then, according to Castners ruling. But the parents refused to drop their lawsuit because they said the states concessions fell short of what they sought voluntary, informed consent before any blood draws and the destruction of all blood spots immediately after disease screening. Absent that, they want the state to shift to an opt-in policy, in which parents would have to agree to spot storage, rather than the current approach that mandates retention and only permits parents with religious objections to opt out. They will continue to fight for that gold standard of a policy, Frommer said. Even if seizing the blood to test the kid for diseases is reasonable, once thats done, the state doesnt have any further justification to hold on to the blood, Frommer said. To do so is constitutionally unreasonable. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Months after conspiracy theorist Alex Jones mocked The Onion after the satirical news outlets proposed purchase Jones Infowars was rejected by a federal bankruptcy court, a state judge ruled this week that the far-right platform can once again be sold clearing the way for The Onion to resurrect its bid. In a Wednesday hearing in Texas district court, Judge Maya Guerra Gamble ordered the assets of Infowars parent company Free Speech systems to be handed over to a court-appointed receiver, who will then start the process of selling them off in order to pay the roughly $1.3 billion that Jones owes the families of the Sandy Hook shooting victims. The families, who have spent nearly three years attempting to collect on the judgment in federal bankruptcy court, were awarded the damages over Jones repeated false and baseless claims that the Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax and that the children killed were crisis actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, The Onion backed by the Sandy Hook families had won a court-ordered auction to purchase Infowars, with plans to turn the far-right conspiracy outlet into a parody site that would mock the conservative media ecosphere. Additionally, The Onion said that it planned on entering into an advertising agreement with gun-control advocacy group Everytown for Gun Safety. That sale was blocked in December, however, after a federal bankruptcy judge ruled that the acquisition was flawed and that he would not approve the sale, citing issues regarding the transparency of the process. That allowed Jones to keep Infowars for the time being and he celebrated on-air by using music from Star Wars to mock The Onion.fee Alex Jones may soon be forced to vacate Infowars studios after a Texas state judge ruled that a court-appointed receiver can begin selling assets. (AFP via Getty Images) We are deeply disappointed in today's decision, but The Onion will continue to seek a resolution that helps the Sandy Hook families receive a positive outcome for the horror they endured, Ben Collins, CEO of The Onions parent company Global Tetrahedron, said after the December ruling. A giddy Jones, meanwhile, read Collins statement on his show at the time alongside the Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back. I told you guys. We werent going down, Jones boasted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While halting the sale to The Onion, the federal bankruptcy judge suggested to the Sandy Hook families that they should go take their case to state court to get what theyre owed from Jones, of which he has yet to pay a dime. And now, according to Gambles ruling, it appears that Jones could soon be locked out of the Infowars studios. According to Wednesdays order, the receiver has the power to collect all accounts receivable change the locks to all premises at which any property is situated access all storage facilities, safe-deposit boxes, [and] real property and exercise control over any website [of Jones]. Additionally, the receiver can turn to local law enforcement for help carrying out his duties and exercising his powers. Unsurprisingly, Jones was not happy about the ruling. I'm pretty p*ssed off and wound up, he grumbled on Wednesdays broadcast, telling his viewers: This fight is your fight. Attorneys for the families, meanwhile, said that the judges order was a critically important step closer to achieving the goal of holding Alex Jones accountable for years of harm, specifically noting that it could finally lead to Infowars shuttering for good. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The receiver is now authorized to liquidate his business assets, and we look forward to the corrupt media empire that Jones built finally being dismantled, attorney Chris Mattei, who represents the Connecticut-based families, told NPR. The families are pleased that the court has placed InfoWars parent company into receivership, which will finally lead to accountability for Alex Jones' monstrously cruel harassment," Mark Bankston, another lawyer for the families, stated. Jones raged about the judge's ruling on Wednesday while telling his viewers that this is their fight now. (Infowars) As for the likelihood that The Onion can finally complete its purchase of Infowars now that its in a receivership, legal experts said that it may not be a panacea but the conditions are now more favorable for a sale. From a creditor's point of view, you're most often better off under state law because the state court may be able to operate with greater speed and flexibility[and fewer] constraints than the bankruptcy judge has to deal with, Larry Ponoroff, dean and professor emeritus at Tulane Law School, told NPR. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reached for comment, Collins told The Independent that while he wasnt at liberty to fully discuss the situation right now, he could say that were working on it. Throughout this entire process, Jones has also insisted that even if the Infowars brand and property are taken from him, he will continue to stay on the air by stating another company. Still, because a bankruptcy judge ruled his behavior willful and malicious, the families could continue to make claims on any money Jones makes in the future through other business ventures. In June, Jones was accused by the trustee overseeing his personal bankruptcy of trying to shield assets of more than $5 million to avoid paying on the Sandy Hook judgment. This included allegations that Jones fraudulently transferred $1.5 million to his wife, $800,000 to his father and attempted to hide his ownership of two condominiums with a combined value of $1.5 million. WASHINGTON (AP) A federal judge on Thursday struck down two Trump administration actions aimed at eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs at the nations schools and universities. In her ruling, U.S. District Judge Stephanie Gallagher in Maryland found that the Education Department violated the law when it threatened to cut federal funding from educational institutions that continued with DEI initiatives. The guidance has been on hold since April when three federal judges blocked various portions of the Education Departments anti-DEI measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ruling Thursday followed a motion for summary judgment from the American Federation of Teachers and the American Sociological Association, which challenged the governments actions in a February lawsuit. The case centers on two Education Department memos ordering schools and universities to end all race-based decision-making or face penalties up to a total loss of federal funding. Its part of a campaign to end practices the Trump administration frames as discrimination against white and Asian American students. The new ruling orders the department to scrap the guidance because it runs afoul of procedural requirements, though Gallagher wrote that she took no view on whether the policies were good or bad, prudent or foolish, fair or unfair. Gallagher, who was appointed by President Donald Trump, rejected the governments argument that the memos simply served to remind schools that discrimination is illegal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It initiated a sea change in how the Department of Education regulates educational practices and classroom conduct, causing millions of educators to reasonably fear that their lawful, and even beneficial, speech might cause them or their schools to be punished, Gallagher wrote. Democracy Forward, a legal advocacy firm representing the plaintiffs, called it an important victory over the administration's attack on DEI. Threatening teachers and sowing chaos in schools throughout America is part of the administrations war on education, and today the people won, said Skye Perryman, the group's president and CEO. A statement from the Education Department on Thursday said it was disappointed in the ruling but that judicial action enjoining or setting aside this guidance has not stopped our ability to enforce Title VI protections for students at an unprecedented level. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conflict started with a Feb. 14 memo declaring that any consideration of race in admissions, financial aid, hiring or other aspects of academic and student life would be considered a violation of federal civil rights law. The memo dramatically expanded the governments interpretation of a 2023 Supreme Court decision barring colleges from considering race in admissions decisions. The government argued the ruling applied not only to admissions but across all of education, forbidding race-based preferences of any kind. Educational institutions have toxically indoctrinated students with the false premise that the United States is built upon systemic and structural racism and advanced discriminatory policies and practices, wrote Craig Trainor, the acting assistant secretary of the departments Office for Civil Rights. A further memo in April asked state education agencies to certify they were not using illegal DEI practices. Violators risked losing federal money and being prosecuted under the False Claims Act, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, the guidance amounted to a full-scale reframing of the governments approach to civil rights in education. It took aim at policies that were created to address longstanding racial disparities, saying those practices were their own form of discrimination. The memos drew a wave of backlash from states and education groups that called it illegal government censorship. In its lawsuit, the American Federation of Teachers said the government was imposing unclear and highly subjective limits on schools across the country. It said teachers and professors had to choose between chilling their constitutionally protected speech and association or risk losing federal funds and being subject to prosecution. ___ The Associated Press education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administrations targeting of immigrants attending immigration court violates their due process rights. In a scathing opinion released Thursday, Judge Dale E. Ho wrote that Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests in immigration court had turned the procedure into detention roulette. Over the span of 31 pages, Ho wrote that Carlos Javier Lopez Benitez, a 27-year-old from Paraguay, had his constitutional rights violated when he attended court on July 16 in pursuit of asylum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Lopez Benitez appears to be far from alone, Ho wrote. His counsel assert that his treatment is part of a nationwide campaign, as set forth in an ICE internal memo that has been described in various media reports, which suggests that millions could be swept up in the same way. Since May, ICE agents have been arresting immigrants immediately after their immigration court hearings. The strategy has gained nationwide attention in the wake of two high-profile consequences: the indictment of a judge in Wisconsin who allegedly helped an immigrant evade authorities outside her courtroom, and the detention of New York City Comptroller and thenmayoral hopeful Brad Lander, who was attempting to escort an immigrant out of the courthouse. Ho noted that while the government could not confirm or deny the existence of that policy, they appear to maintain that they must categorically detain all undocumented immigrants who they believe have entered the United States unlawfullyno matter how long they have been residing in the country since. Citing Velasco Lopez v. Decker, Ho further argued that the suggestion that government agents may sweep up any person they wish for no reason whatsoever, so long as the person will, at some unknown point in time, be allowed to ask some other official for his or her release offends the ordered system of liberty that is the pillar of the Fifth Amendment. Lopez Benitezs case may be the new normal in Trumps America, but it is far from the historical standard. Immigration authorities used to stay away from courthouses, fearing that their presence could disengage people from following procedure and navigating the legal system. But White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Millers agenda has effectively unrooted that, tasking federal agents with arresting 3,000 undocumented immigrants per daya quota so astronomical that it has forced the agency to find unconventional subjects of detention, including legal residents and even U.S. citizens. A federal judge in New York ripped into the Trump administrations arbitrary practice of arresting immigrants as they leave their immigration court hearings, creating what he calls a game of detention roulette that violates due process. District Judge Dale Ho, who was appointed by Joe Biden, said the government violated the constitutional rights of a 27-year-old asylum seeker from Paraguay who was arrested moments after attending a court hearing in Manhattan last month. And he appears to be far from alone, Ho wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His counsel asserts that his treatment is part of a nationwide campaign, as set forth in an ICE internal memo that has been described in various media reports, which suggests that millions could be swept up in the same way, the judge added. ICE cannot confirm or deny the existence of such a new policy, yet the governments position states that federal law enforcement must categorically detain all undocumented immigrants who they believe have entered the United States unlawfully no matter how long they have been residing in the country since, according to Ho. But treating attendance in immigration court as a game of detention roulette is not consistent with the constitutional guarantee of due process, he continued. Federal agents patrol the halls of a federal building that houses immigration court in Manhattan, which a judge blasted as turning court hearings into a game of deportation roulette (Getty Images) Thousands across the country have faced arrest after showing up for their court-ordered ICE check-ins or routine immigration court hearings as part of Donald Trumps mass deportation agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. That strategy has generated scenes of masked federal agents patrolling courthouse hallways and hauling away immigrants the moment they leave their hearings. Half of all immigration court arrests nationwide were in New York City in late May and early June, according to an analysis published by news outlet The City. Between May 26 and June 8, federal officers arrested 134 people in lower Manhattan immigration courthouse buildings, accounting for nearly a third of all immigration arrests in New York City in that period, the outlet found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those arrests spiked alongside arrests at mandatory ICE check-ins with the agency, including appointments across the street from downtown Manhattans 26 Federal Plaza, which also houses a makeshift detention facility at the center of a lawsuit alleging unsanitary conditions and a lack of access to medicine and legal counsel. Courthouse arrests in New York by masked agents have surged since Trump took office after the administration instructed immigration court judges to quickly dismiss cases, making immigrants appearing for their regularly scheduled hearings vulnerable for removal from the country (Getty Images) The administrations actions to strip legal status from immigrants who are in the middle of their immigration cases and following the law have radically expanded a pool of undocumented people to add to the presidents demands for mass deportations. Policy - that has since been abandoned by the Trump administration - sought to prevent courthouse arrests from creating a palpable fear that disincentivizes people from appearing for their hearings, according to a lawsuit filed by civil rights groups against the practice. But in the first few days of the Trump administration, defendants repealed those policies, exposing individuals who properly appear for their hearings, including to seek asylum and other relief, to the imminent threat of arrest and indefinite detention, the lawsuit stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 12 plaintiffs most of whom are LGBT+ or victims of female genital mutilation who fear persecution and violence in their home countries sought protection in the United States only to have their cases abruptly dismissed, with masked federal officers waiting to arrest them on the other side of the courtroom doors. Many of the plaintiffs had lived in the United States without issue for years before their arrest, when they were abruptly separated from their families, including U.S. citizens, without notice, according to the lawsuit. At least 1,674 civilian casualties were recorded in Ukraine in July, setting a new record since the first year of Russia's full-scale invasion, U.N. human rights monitors said on Aug. 13. The figure includes 286 civilians killed and 1,388 injured, topping a previous record in May 2022, the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement. The figure underscores Russia's intensifying attacks despite U.S. efforts to broker a peace deal and Kyiv's calls for an unconditional ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For the second month in a row, the number of civilian casualties in Ukraine hits a new three-year high," said Danielle Bell, head of the U.N. human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine. "Only the first three months after the Russian Federation launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine saw more killed and injured than in this past month." Russia's use of long-range weapons like missiles and loitering munitions accounted for almost 40% of the casualties, the U.N. said in its report. Short-range drones were the second most common cause of civilian losses, amounting to 24%. The surge in casualty figures took place mainly in Ukrainian front-line areas, a trend the monitors connected to Russia's intensified offensive operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia also carried out a number of deadly mass strikes against Kyiv and other major cities. On July 31, Russian forces launched a combined missile and drone strike on Kyiv, killing 32 people and injuring almost 180. The strike marked the highest number of children injured in a single attack against the capital. It was also the deadliest strike against the capital of the year, and the second deadliest of the war after the December 2023 attack on Kyiv that killed 33 people. According to the U.N., casualty figures in the first seven months of 2025 were 48% higher than during the same period last year. The U.N. has documented close to 14,000 civilians killed and over 35,500 injured during the full-scale war, though the real figure is likely much higher as Russia prevents independent monitoring in some of the most war-affected regions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine faces an increasingly dire situation in the war as Russia makes fresh advances in eastern Donetsk Oblast, while Kyiv's own forces suffer manpower shortages. The summer also saw Russia ramp up its aerial strikes across Ukraine, drawing criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened to impose new punishing sanctions unless Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to a ceasefire deal. While Trump announced no new measures by his own Aug. 8 deadline, he is scheduled to meet Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15 to discuss a possible settlement of the war in Ukraine. This will be the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since Trump returned to office in January. Read also: As Putin, Trump debate Ukraines future borders, Donetsk Oblast residents are split on what they would accept to end the war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Flood barriers, known as HESCO barriers, are seen along the Mendenhall River at flood level on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) When the peak of the annual glacial outburst flood hit early Wednesday morning in Juneau, newly installed flood barriers stacked along the Mendenhall River largely prevented flooding of the nearby residential area. The flooding reached a record-breaking 16.65 feet at 7:15 a.m., but nearby homes, businesses and three schools were mostly spared. On Wednesday afternoon, Juneau officials announced the flood threat was over.Officials reported there were no rescues overnight or emergency evacuations during the flooding. There was some flood damage to a bridge, which had already been closed to the public Tuesday and was undergoing repairs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents reported some seepage through the semipermanent HESCO barriers into neighboring yards and homes, and some streets were flooded through water rising through storm drains. Keeping watch Israel Katzeek helped his brother-in-law monitor his home in the Mendenhall Valley, on Lakeview Court and Meander Way, across the street from homes adjacent to the river. On Wednesday morning, water levels rose through the storm drains filling the intersection to about a third of the way up their driveway. Israel Katzeek, with nephew Raiden Johnson-Katzeek, outside their home in the Mendenhall Valley, where they prepared a flood barrier but only saw minimal flooding of the street from the glacial outburst event on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) At the peak, it was deep enough on this corner for paddle boarding, believe it or not. I wasnt paddle boarding, but neighbors were, he said. They had prepared a two-foot wall of sandbags around the front of the home. Katzeeks sister and her children had evacuated, but he and his brother-in-law stayed to monitor the house. Last year, the house had some partial flood damage to the garage so this year, the family took extra steps, with a sandbag barrier. Many homes on the street had sandbags and plastic liners along garage doors. Talking around midday on Wednesday as the flood waters were subsiding, Katzeek described what it felt like. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Definitely relief. We were kind of bracing for the worst, obviously, with the barriers and elevating things and evacuating. Its like relief is just like the best way to put it, he said. Researchers and local officials have been analyzing data to better prepare for flood risks. It appeared that work was paying off. This year, Katzeek said the emergency preparedness effort and alerts were helpful. I think the neighborhood was well informed. I think there was better advance notice about the dam breakage at Suicide Basin, he said. Like thoughtful advisories in place well in advance of the flooding. A closely monitored flood The Mendenhall Glaciers ice-dammed lake burst Tuesday morning, prompting an emergency alert and following evacuation advisory for some downriver Mendenhall Valley neighborhoods. Waters swelled throughout the night, carrying trees, debris and glacial melt swiftly downstream. U.S. Geological Survey scientists measure flooding on the Mendenhall River as water releases from Suicide Basins glacier-dammed lake on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo provided by the U.S. Geological Survey) The Mendenhall River reached the record-breaking level Wednesday morning. So this is a new all time record, high crest for the Mendenhall lake and river system, said Nicole Ferrin with the National Weather Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2011, the area has seen flooding from Mendenhall Glacier outburst events, as global climate change accelerates ice melting, more precipitation and increased flooding. Last year floods reached a then-record 15.99 feet, flooding the area and damaging more than 290 homes. A U.S. Geological Survey scientist rappels down a rock face on ropes above Suicide Basin on June 27, 2025. The glacier-dammed lake is within the Mendenhall Glacier system above Juneau. Snow-covered mountains and the glacier are visible in the background, with coiled rope visible on the rocky ledge. (Photo provided by U.S. Geological Survey) Throughout Wednesday the river continued to slowly recede; many onlookers came out to see the fast-moving, muddy waters carrying whole trees and debris downriver. Juneau officials warned it was still an active flood zone and cautioned the public to avoid the river areas, as damage was still being assessed. The barriers are, by and large, holding together. We are seeing a small amount of seepage in the HESCO barriers in certain locations, and thats still very much being assessed, said Ryan OShaughnessy, director of emergency programs for the City and Borough of Juneau, at a news conference on Wednesday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There were some reports of trees striking the barriers and causing damage, he said, and some were repaired or fortified with sandbags further, but the extent of damage is still being investigated. Assessment is happening via drones and will soon start to happen in person, as we make assessments that the water on the river side of the barriers is dropping to a point where our personnel can be safe and make those in-person inspections, he said. HESCO flood barriers along the Mendenhall River hold during flood levels on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Sabrina Grubitz, safety manager with the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, emphasized the flood barriers were effective. We can definitely say that if the HESCO barriers were not placed, we certainly would have seen a considerable amount more damage than we saw now, she said. They certainly have been doing their job. Juneau officials reported no emergency rescues, and about 75 calls were answered at an emergency hotline. An evacuation shelter set up at the Floyd Dryden school building assisted nine people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most folks evacuated the area and stayed out of the area. We didnt have any significant incidents with the water, said Assistant Chief Sam Russell of Capital City Fire and Rescue. And so we didnt have to do any work last night, which was kind of nice. Christopher Goins, director of the southcoast region of the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, reported some damage to the bridge across the river on Back Loop Road, which was closed for repairs through Wednesday afternoon. We saw a power pole and our wing abutment on the southeast side of the (Back Loop) bridge basically began to lean into the water, Goins said. And we are beginning to lose portions of the road associated with that abutment there . The bridge itself is in great condition. Were not concerned about that at this time, but that does mean we are going to have an extended closure while we repair that fill material behind the bridge, where it meets the land. The U.S. Coast Guard is actively monitoring outflow debris and potential pollution, and are broadcasting advisories to mariners. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also have crews onsite monitoring the area. They assisted in repairing a break in the flood barrier at Dimond Park on Wednesday morning, officials said, and would respond to any other areas as needed. Juneau officials report a tree strike broke through part of the HESCO barrier near the Dimond Park Field House during the glacial outburst flood, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assisted with repairing and fortifying the barrier with additional sand bags on Aug 13, 2025. (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) The U.S. Forest Service closed the Mendenhall Recreation Area on Wednesday, and the visitors center was closed to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first day of school for Juneau students has also been postponed, said Superintendent Frank Hauser, from Thursday to Friday. On Wednesday afternoon, areas of the Mendenhall Valley that had been evacuated were opened to residents to return, and municipal crews continued to assess damage in the area. The nonemergency hotline remained open at (907-500-0890). Flood recovery resources, including debris disposal information and safety tips for re-entering a home with flood damage can be found at bit.ly/JuneauFloodRecovery. As the flood waters receded from Meander Way, with the help of municipal crews pumping a nearby storm drain, Israel Katzeek began starting the clean up process at his sisters home. He expressed uncertainty about preparing for what could become an annual flood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its hard to say because even this year, we kind of pulled all the stops to be prepared. And, yeah, you know, even in the 11th hour, we still werent sure if we prepared enough, he said. It seems like theres a lot of variables. Onlookers view the glacial outburst flooding event at the Brotherhood Bridge around 8:15 a.m., just after the peak flood levels, on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Flood waters of the Mendenhall River seen rushing below the Brotherhood Bridge about an hour after the peak flood levels at 8:30 a.m. on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) The Mendenhall River seen at flood levels, just a few hours after the record-breaking peak of 16.65 feet, from the Brotherhood Bridge in Juneau on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) crews use a device to measure depth, speed of water and amount of water in the flooded Mendenhall River, on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) People seen on the banks of the fast-moving and flooded Mendenhall River a few hours after the peak of the glacial flooding event on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) The Mendenhall River at flood levels seen after the glacial outburst flooding event on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Juneau residents came to see the flooded Mendenhall River on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Onlookers view the flooded Mendenhall River on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Mendenhall Lake at flood level seen on Aug 13, 2025 (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) Mendenhall Lake seen at flood level following the glacial outburst flooding event on Aug 13, 2025, from the Mendenhall Visitors Center. (Photo by Corinne Smith/Alaska Beacon) SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE HONOLULU, Hawaii (KHON2) The Hawaii State Judiciary is now warning the public to be aware of jury duty scams, statewide. PREVIOUSLY Manoa resident dodges jury duty scam State officials said that theres been a report of about 330,000 jury questionnaires that have arrived this week in mailboxes for potential jury service in 2026. But, not all questionnaires are fraudulent. The initiative to respond to jury questionnaires is crucial for Hawaii residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While scamming questionnaires are being mailed out, the perpetrators often use the names of real officials, provide actual court addresses or manipulate caller ID to convince residents that its real and making this process of legitimacy almost impossible. In some cases, the scammers may know personal insights about the intended victim, including name, address or birth date. Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news Some important facts to remember: The Hawaii State Judiciary does not make calls, emails or texts about payment or personal information for jury-related matters. All official jury service communications are sent through the U.S. Postal Service. The courts and law enforcement will never: Ask for a Social Security number, credit card details, or bank account information over the phone or by email. Demand immediate payment from pre-paid cards, gift cards, wire transfers, or online payment apps to avoid arrest or jail. Instruct you to meet at a courthouse, police station, or other location to make a payment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protecting yourself from scams comes from hanging up immediately if you receive a suspicious jury duty-related phone call, delete suspicious emails or texts claiming to be the Judiciary if you did not contact them first, and do not trust caller ID. If you believe you are in danger or have been threatened by a scammer, call 911. Check out more news from around Hawaii If you have given personal information or sent money to a scammer, report the incident to your local police department. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. Actor Jussie Smollett on Wednesday offered fresh criticism of the Chicago Police Department (CPD) and the city's former mayor, Rahm Emanuel, calling them "villains" for their role in his conviction over an alleged hate crime hoax. Smollett, who is Black and gay, originally reported to Chicago police that he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack by two men wearing ski masks in January 2019. He was convicted in 2021 of staging the hate crime himself, but it was later overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court on due process grounds, ruling that Smollett had originally reached an agreement with the state to avoid prosecution. The court did not rule on the actor's guilt or innocence in the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The villains are the two people who assaulted me, the Chicago Police Department and, if I may be so brave, the mayor," Smollett told Variety, referencing Emanuel, who served as the mayor of Chicago from 2011 to 2019. Jussie Smollett Donates $50,000 To Charity In Chicago Settlement, Maintains His Innocence Jussie Smollett called the Chicago Police Department and former Mayor Rahm Emanuel "villains" during an interview with Variety on Wednesday. According to Variety, the former "Empire" star alleged that the "Chicago establishment" conspired to frame him and questioned whether Emanuel played a part in covering up evidence in the police killing of a Black teenager in Chicago a case that led a federal judge to order the CPD to adopt dozens of reforms just two days after Smollett reported being attacked. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Could it be that they had just found out about the missing minutes and the missing tape from the murder of Laquan McDonald? Could it be that the mayor helped hide that?" Smollett asked, referencing the police killing of teenager Laquan McDonald in 2014. "Were living in a world where the higher-ups, their main mission, in order to do all of the underhanded things that theyre doing, is to distract us with the shiny object." Fox News Digital reached out to the CPD and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel for comment but did not immediately receive responses. Emanuel declined comment to Variety. Variety reported that Smollett became "worked up" as he maintained his original story, that he was attacked by two masked MAGA supporters who shouted racist and homophobic slurs at him before placing a noose around his neck and pouring bleach on him. While he refrained from criticizing the two brothers who claimed to have helped the actor stage the hate crime hoax, Smollett contended that he is the only person involved with the case whose story hasn't changed multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "All I can say is, God bless you, and I hope it was worth it," he told the outlet in reference to the brothers. "Every single other persons story has changed multiple times. Mine has never. I have nothing to gain from this." Brothers Paid By Jussie Smollett To Instigate 2019 Hoax Apologize To Country, Didn't 'Foresee' Ramifications Brothers Olabinjo Osundairo, right, and Abimbola Osundairo, say they helped Smollett fake the attack. Smollett denies orchestrating the attack with the two brothers. In reference to an upcoming documentary by Netflix titled "The Truth About Jussie Smollett?" which hints that the actor may be innocent after all Variety asked Smollett why the "exculpatory evidence" of his innocence didn't emerge sooner. "To be honest with you, I dont really know," he told the outlet. "Im not an investigative reporter or a detective. I cant sit and tell you exactly, beat by beat, what happened. I can only tell you what did not happen. And what did not happen is the story thats been out there for almost seven years, that somehow I would have even a reason to do something as egregious as this." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smollett also described how he felt once the CPD shifted its focus from investigating the alleged hate crime to investigating, and eventually arresting, the actor himself. The former "Empire" star likened his experience to that of the late "King of Pop," Michael Jackson, who faced multiple sexual abuse allegations and police investigations before and after his eventual death, which Smollett suggested were part of a broader conspiracy. Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture Smolett claimed that Emanuel and the "Chicago establishment" conspired against him in 2019 when he was convicted of orchestrating a hate crime hoax. "I saw firsthand how narratives are built. I saw firsthand the way that someone can take the exact opposite of who you are and literally sell it," he told the outlet. "And people will be like, I believe it! God rest his soul, but homeboy Michael Jackson tried to warn us." Smollett reached a settlement with the City of Chicago in May, agreeing to donate $50,000 to charity as part of the agreement to have a lawsuit against him dismissed. Fox News' Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this report. Original article source: Jussie Smollett calls Chicago PD and Rahm Emanuel 'villains' while denying hate crime hoax From my research, Oklahoma has never ranked 17th in the national NAEP Scores NAEP being whats known as The Nations Report Card. I most recently researched this, and where it comes from is Education Weeks Quality Counts report, where in 2011, Oklahoma ranked 17th. The ranking was based on education policy, standards and teacher development not actual student outcomes. We were actually below average nationally that year. Our best showing in recent years came in 2015, when Oklahoma ranked roughly in the middle of the pack nationally on various scoring within NAEP. But by 2019, we had dropped into the bottom 10. Today, we rank at the bottom in both reading and math. Oklahoma's decline began before COVID-19 Then came COVID-19, which dealt a blow to learning everywhere, but Oklahomas decline began before the pandemic, and it wasnt inevitable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the result of choices made right here at home. Oklahoma's education decline can still be turned around to a much better level, guest columnist writes. In 2018 and 2023, we began to make large investments into education two of the largest in the states history but much of that money was focused on salary increases rather than sustained investment in classroom resources, early literacy or instructional quality. The pay raises were essential to keep good educators. At the very time we need to repair and strengthen public education, the governor, the former speaker of the House and the state schools superintendent were so focused on vouchers, tax credits and tax cuts a total distraction from improving education outcomes. It took time, resources and attention away from the real need. Leaders like Rhonda Baker and others on our education committee were focused on improving outcomes of public students, but the constant push for vouchers, tax credits and tax cuts along with political ideology was a major distraction. Weve treated education like yanking on the reins of a young colt until its so confused it doesnt know which way to go right, left or stop. Under the previous speaker, political fights dominated education policy, but we did vote on things like Inspired to Teach, Redbud Fund, AP course requirements, science of reading and the new graduation requirements. But the Legislature neglected institutional investment and allowed national ideological battles to overshadow Oklahoma's own urgent needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opinion: Here's who we have to thank for restoring education proficiency benchmarks Our Legislature, governor, superintendent and Oklahoma State Board of Education must all be focused on outcomes, and the political games must stop. People talk about the Mississippi Miracle. We passed a lot of the reforms that they did. However, in Mississippi, leaders worked together to see this vision through. We need to start listening to those who have the education knowledge needed to move forward. Oklahoma has to fix its education mess Our focus right now needs to be on education and how we are going to fix this mess that we have gotten into and the lack of leadership from the Oklahoma State Department of Education. The system didnt fall to the bottom overnight. It happened because of choices, including years of legislative meddling, budget cuts and political distractions that hollowed out our teacher force. We can turn it around, but only if we stop fighting over distractions and start making sustained, targeted investments. We need to be sending kids to school to learn reading, writing and arithmetic. I know that sounds a little old-fashioned, but maybe its time to get back to the basics let teachers do what they do best, and leave everything else at the door. Mark McBride Mark McBride, a Republican, is a businessman and consultant and a former member of the House of Representatives, from 2012-2024. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma's education decline can still be turned around | Opinion Just come home: Family, friends desperate as search for pregnant Rehoboth teen continues Family and friends of Kylee Monteiro funneled through the Rehoboth police station on Thursday, still desperately sharing information in their continued search for the 18-year-old. Monteiro was last seen last Thursday, August 7th. Her family said her last known location was at her boyfriends house. Those close to Monteiro shared videos, information, and more. Theyve also taken to social media to grow awareness of the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think something bad has happened to Kylee, said friend Delaney Potter on TikTok. I think shes still in the area of Rehoboth. Thursday, she, too, was at the police station. I just want her to be found, Potter told Boston 25 on Thursday. Boston 25 news reporter Daniel Coates asked, Do you believe shes still out there? Potter responded, ? Yes, but I dont believe shes alive. Another close relative of Monteiros, Juliette Piette, said, This has been a brutal week for all of us... Please, just come home. We love you and we miss you. Rehoboth Police told Boston 25 on Thursday they have no updates regarding their search. No arrests have been reported since her disappearance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Drought conditions in the West are intensifying, with 65% of the region experiencing drought conditions, according to the latest drought monitor. This is up from just 33% of the West in drought conditions just one year ago, meaning the amount of the region experiencing drought conditions has nearly doubled in one year. Arizona and Utah are two of the hardest-hit states, with 100% of the states experiencing drought conditions. As firefighters battle 27 active large fires in the West, fire conditions could only worsen. Parched Conditions Fueling Fires Two key elements to heightened wildfire conditions are a lack of moisture in the air, and sufficient fuel to feed any fires that spark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drought has specifically been identified as an impact to wildfire conditions in Utah and Colorado, according to the Drought Impact Reporter Dashboard from the National Drought Mitigation Center and the University of Nebraska. County specific drought impact reports also list impacts to fire conditions in Texas, Wyoming, Oregon and Washington. Whats Behind The Drought? One factor contributing to increased drying is the lack of snowfall during the winter months. Pockets of the western U.S. experienced snow drought from lack of snowfall and above normal temperatures. The spring months warm temperatures resulted in rapid snowmelt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Drought.gov, The rapid depletion of snow, coupled with increased evaporative demand (the thirst of the atmosphere), can rapidly dry soils and vegetation. That can lead to an early start to the fire season. When snow melts too quickly, it can transition from a solid to a gas through sublimation, which reduces runoff in streams and reservoirs. Above average temperatures have plagued parts of the West during the summer months as well, only adding to the drought conditions. Not only is there an abundance of heat theres also a lack of relief. Wheres The Monsoon? The Desert Southwest relies heavily on the monsoon rains to bring relief from drought conditions, however, much of Arizona is well-behind where it should be for monsoon rain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On a regional scale, the majority of the Four Corners region has had less than 50% of their normal precipitation for the 60 day period ending on August 11, 2025. In fact, there are multiple cities across the region that have been experiencing their driest summer on record to date. Phoenix has barely received a tenth of an inch of rainfall so far, which is well-below average. And some areas across Arizona are still waiting on their first measurable rain this season. That is not the case for the entire region, however. There are some areas through SE Arizona and parts of New Mexico that have experienced ample rainfall the past couple months. As such, there has been a mix of short term deteriorating drought status (mainly central Arizona through southern Utah and western Colorado), says NWS Phoenix lead meteorologist Mark OMalley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no abundance of relief in the long term outlook, with continued drier-than-average conditions expected for the region September through November. Jennifer Gray is a weather and climate writer for weather.com. She has been covering some of the world's biggest weather and climate stories for the last two decades. A Justice Department employee, who became an overnight internet celebrity this week, has been fired and charged with felony assault after allegedly throwing a wrapped sandwich at a federal officer during a federal law enforcement special deployment in Washington, D.C., the night before President Donald Trump seized control of the citys police force. The employee was a lawyer in the Sean Charles Dunn, 37, who lists his experience as a DOJ trial attorney on LinkedIn, worked in the international affairs office of the departments criminal division, a DOJ source confirmed to CBS News. He was arrested Sunday on the U Street corridor in Northwest Washington, a neighborhood celebrated for its Black cultural legacy and LGBTQ-friendly nightlife. The area has also become a flashpoint since Trumps early-August decision to flood D.C. streets with federal agents under the banner of a crime crackdown, despite Justice Department and Metropolitan Police data showing violent crime at its lowest point in three decades. According to court filings, Dunn confronted U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agent Gregory Lairmore around 11 p.m., standing within inches of the agents face and shouting, Fuck you! You fucking fascists! Why are you here? I dont want you in my city! The incident was captured in an Instagram video that quickly went viral online. The footage shows Dunn holding a footlong Subway sandwich in one hand while gesturing with the other, continuing to shout at the officers. After stepping back briefly, he winds his arm behind him and throws the sandwich at Lairmore, striking him in the chest. The wrapped sandwich bounces off the agents flak vest before Dunn turns and sprints across the street. Several officers give chase as bystanders observe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dunn was apprehended moments later. While being processed at the Metropolitan Police Departments Third District, he allegedly told an officer, I did it. I threw a sandwich. Attorney General Pam Bondi, a key ally in Trumps Justice Department reshaping, announced Dunns firing Thursday on X. If you touch any law enforcement officer, we will come after you, she wrote. She said that she had just discovered that he was a DOJ employee. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony. This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ. (@) U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, who has defended Trumps unprecedented police takeover, previously wrote on X, This guy thought it was funny. Well, he doesnt think its funny today. For residents of U Street and across D.C., where nearly 15 percent of adults identify as LGBTQ+, the surge of federal power into local streets has become a vivid reminder of how quickly the citys character and freedoms can be tested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sandwich-throwing incident came less than 24 hours before Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to seize control of the Metropolitan Police Department for 30 days, a move condemned by civil rights advocates and Democratic leaders as authoritarian. Dunn had his first appearance today before federal Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey and was released on his own recognizance," the DOJ said in a press release Thursday afternoon. Editors note: This story has been updated with additional reporting and the original headline was changed to reflect that Dunn was a DOJ employee and not a lawyer. This article originally appeared on Advocate: Justice Department employee charged & fired after throwing Subway sandwich at federal law enforcement officer RELATED DENVER (KDVR) The Denver Police Department has announced an arrest of a juvenile male in connection with a shooting in LoDo in July that left four people injured. The city of Denver, in a press release, said that on Aug. 8, the male juvenile was arrested and is being held for multiple charges, including four counts of investigation of attempted homicide. FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city said the juvenile male is suspected to be the alleged shooter in the incident that happened at the intersection of 20th and Market streets, which is just blocks from Coors Field. On July 27 at 12:22 a.m., Denver police reported on X of the shooting. At that time, police believed there were three victims, but later on Sunday, they had located a fourth victim. Police had later arrested a man, Damion Britt, 21, on July 31, who the agency reported was a suspect in the case and was being held on multiple charges, including four counts of investigation of attempted murder. On Aug. 1, the police department announced in an update that Britt was not believed to be the shooter in the case but was still being held on four counts of investigation of attempted murder and four counts of investigation of assault. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city said the juvenile in connection with the case is being held for: Four counts of investigation of attempted homicide Four counts of investigation of first-degree assault The final determination of charges against the juvenile will be made by the Denver District Attorneys Office, says the city. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) A 14-year-old juvenile has been taken into custody for charges related to a shooting at the Jacksonville Mall on August 2. According to a press release, the suspect, who was wearing a black ski mask, approached three victims in the parking lot and opened fire on them before fleeing the area. The suspects identity is still unknown to the public at this time due to his age. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrest was made possible by support from the Berkeley County Sheriffs Office in South Carolina. The suspect must go through an extradition process before being transferred to North Carolina. Two juvenile victims were found with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds, and all three victims are currently in stable condition. The Jacksonville Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Detective A. Wilson by phone at (910) 938-6520 or by email at awilson@jacksonvillenc.gov. MORE FROM THIS: Onslow County man shoots three people at Jacksonville Mall Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. KANSAS CITY, Mo. A Kansas City man was acquitted of murder and other charges following a jury trial this week in Jackson County Circuit Court. The jury returned the verdicts on Thursday and found Myloe Doan not guilty of one count of second-degree murder, two counts of armed criminal action and one count of unlawful use of a weapon after a three-day trial, according to court records. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Jackson County Prosecutors Office filed the charges in connection with a shooting last year that left 29-year-old William C. Wright dead. The shooting happened June 2, 2024, in the area of East Ninth Street and Van Brunt Boulevard. The Kansas City Police Department investigated the case. After the jury returned the verdict Thursday, the judge ordered that Doan be discharged and for his bond to be released. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas argued that race was driving President Donald Trumps crackdown on crime in major U.S. cities like Washington, D.C. because they are run by Black mayors. On Monday, Trump deployed the National Guard to Washington, D.C. and federalized the police department to crack down on crime in the area. During a press conference, he listed several other cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, Baltimore and Oakland as other places that are being harmed by crime. While speaking to CNNs Kate Bolduan on Wednesday, Lucas pointed out that many of those major cities have Black mayors, such as himself, and believed that both race and politics are primarily behind Trumps more recent attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chris Matthews Says Democrats 'Falling Into A Trap Of Defending Whats Indefensible' On Crime President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he would deploy the National Guard to Washington, D.C. "I wont say thats the totality of it, but I absolutely think it is," Lucas said. "Youre trying to create a counterpoint often in politics. And what is a better counterpoint than Donald Trump in whatever way you see him, and a mayor? Black women mayors have been the subject of lots of attacks." Lucas listed Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass as an example of someone Trump likes to "pick fights" with and encouraged others to also fight back even if their cities are experiencing high crime rates. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And by the way, this is one of the best fights to pick, because what I have to sit in front of you and say is, yes, there are homicides in my city. Yes, there is crime. But we dont think the same prescription of help is necessary," Lucas said. "Its a tough position. But I think, frankly, this is the situation were in. And hes not really interested in trying to save lives for us, but just exploiting the political issue." Click Here For More Coverage Of Media And Culture DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has spoken out against Trump's crime crackdown. Lucas remarked that his city is unlikely to be targeted by Trump because of their Republican governor, and "its not as interesting from just a broader political point." "This is nothing but a wedge issue against American cities and against American mayors who largely dont have the same megaphone to respond," Lucas said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, a Black woman, has called Trumps National Guard move "unsettling and unprecedented" and has repeatedly argued that the city is not experiencing a spike in crime. Original article source: Kansas City mayor claims Trump targeting cities with Black leaders in crime crackdown KANSAS CITY, Mo. Kansas City police are asking for the publics help in finding a missing teenage boy. Robenson Millard, 17, was last seen on Wednesday, around 5 p.m., walking north from 49th Street and Troostwood Road. See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri He was wearing a white t-shirt, camo pants and black slides, according to police. Police said Millard is Black, 6 feet 2 inches tall and170 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. His family is concerned for his wellbeing.. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he is found, you are asked to call 911 or the KCPD Missing Persons Unit at (816) 234-5136. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LA CROSSE, Kan. (KSNW) A Kansas man has been sentenced to over 27 years in prison for child sex crimes. Tyler Whitten, 31, of La Crosse, was sentenced on Aug. 7 to 330 months in prison after pleading guilty in December to two counts of rape of a child under 14. The events occurred in 2023 and involved two victims under the age of 10. The investigation into Whitten began in July 2023 when the child reported the crimes to a parent, who brought the child to the Rush County Sheriffs Office. The Investigation involved the Rush and Pawnee County Sheriffs Office, as well as the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Feds bust Nebraska human trafficking ring We appreciate the hard work of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Rush County Sheriffs Office, whose thorough investigation provided the evidence necessary for justice in this case, Assistant Kansas Attorney General Nicole Southall said in a news release. We are especially grateful for the bravery of these young girls in coming forward and to their mother for her quick actions in getting her children to safety. Whitten will also face post-release supervision and lifetime registration as a sex offender. For more Kansas news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news by downloading our mobile app and signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track 3 Weather app by clicking here. To watch our shows live on our website, click here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV. Cingulate Chairman and CEO Shane Schaffer was arrested and charged with felony aggravated domestic battery on Aug. 9, accused of choking his girlfriend for the second time in less than a year. Johnson County, Kansas, Assistant District Attorney Daniel Obermeier filed charges claiming Schaffer did unlawfully, feloniously and knowingly impede the normal breathing or circulation of the blood by applying pressure on the throat, neck or chest of a person with whom the defendant is involved or has been involved or has been in a dating relationship. Difficult decision: Price Chopper store closing in Overland Park Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Filings in Johnson County District Court did not include other details of the alleged battery. The incident is classified as a felony. A conviction could bring a sentence ranging from probation to 11-34 months in prison. Schaffer was scheduled for an appearance at 11 a.m. Monday, but it was canceled. The Kansas City Business Journal details more about a previous incident involving Schaffer, a subsequent probation sentence, and how the investigation could have ramifications for his contract with Cingulate at 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 FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. NEW YORK (AP) WK Kellogg Co. plans to remove artificial dyes from its breakfast cereals in the next two and a half years, according to the company and the attorney general of Texas. The maker of Froot Loops and Apple Jacks gave the timeline as U.S. food producers face increasing pressure from the U.S. government and consumers to phase out synthetic colorings from their products. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said Wednesday that Kellogg had signed an agreement assuring his office that the Michigan-based company would permanently remove toxic dyes" from its cereals by the end of 2027. Paxton launched an investigation earlier this year into whether Kellogg violated state consumer protection laws by continuing to use blue, red, yellow, green, and orange artificial dyes. Around the same time, U.S. health officials said that they would urge foodmakers to voluntarily work toward removing petroleum-based colors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Kellogg and General Mills, another major U.S. cereal maker, said they would. General Mills later joined Kraft Heinz, Nestle, Smuckers and some other food manufacturers in announcing target dates for making all their products without artificial dyes. But Paxton's office said Kellogg was the first to sign a legally binding agreement. Following months of investigating and negotiating, Im proud to officially say Kelloggs will stop putting these unhealthy ingredients in its cereals, the attorney general said in a statement. Details about the terms of the agreement Kellogg signed, which is legally known as an assurance of voluntary compliance, were not immediately clear. The company did not comment on it directly when reached by The Associated Press on Thursday but said it appreciates the opportunity to work collaboratively with the Texas AGs office and share their focus on health and wellness. Kellogg also pointed to its earlier commitment to phase out FD&C dyes, which are synthetic additives that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved for use in food, drugs and cosmetics. It said it already planned to stop launching new products with the dyes in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have announced we are reformulating our cereals served in schools to not include FD&C colors by the 2026-27 school year, Kellogg said in an emailed statement Thursday. By the end of 2027, we will completely remove FD&C colors from the small percentage of our foods that contain them today. According to Kellogg's website, 85% of the cereal the company sells contains no FD&C colors and none of its products have included Red No. 3 for years. Federal regulators banned that dye from food in January. Synthetic dyes have long been used to make brightly colored cereals, drinks, candies, baked goods and even products like cough syrup. But health advocates have called for the removal of artificial dyes from foods, citing mixed studies indicating they can cause neurobehavioral problems, including hyperactivity and attention issues, in some children. The FDA has maintained that its currently approved dyes are safe and that the totality of scientific evidence shows that most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing color additives. Pressure on the food industry has increased since Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an outspoken critic of such synthetic additives, became President Donald Trump's health secretary. (The Center Square) Once a Democrat himself, Louisiana Republican U.S. Sen. John Kennedy said his old party is split, isnt listening to what would otherwise be expected leaders, and has contempt for America. While Congress recesses from Washington, theres no break from the loquacious Vanderbilt- and Oxford-educated former state treasurer and his homespun plays with words needling the rival party. One-liners aside, he says Democrats fight within the party is lacking the veteran leadership standing up to the younger up-and-comers. The mainstream wing of the party is scared to death of the loon wing, Kennedy said in a network broadcast interview. They wont speak up. And they dont stand for anything anymore. All they stand for is whatever is against whatever President Trump stands for. Thats why we find ourselves in the extraordinary position of mainstream Democrats have now come out firmly and passionately in favor of crime in Washington, D.C. Why? Because Trump is trying to do something about it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He referenced former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and New Yorks Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries as a group nobody pays attention to anymore. There is a split in the Democratic Party, Kennedy said. Unless you have the IQ of a meat thermometer, you can see that. On the one hand, you have the mainstream wing of the party. On the other side, you have what I call the loon wing. Theyre fighting like cats in a bag, but the loon wing is winning. Nobody pays any attention to what Obama, Clinton or Pelosi or Schumer or Jeffries says anymore. The leaders are Mr. Mamdani, Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders. And yes, theyre socialists, neo-socialists. They want government to control your life and tell you how to live it. Its hard to believe that anyone can fit that much stupid in their head, but they can. Zohran Mamdani is the state assemblyman and favorite to win this falls mayoral race in New York City. U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is the second-term Democrat from the Bronx known as AOC first elected at the 2018 midterms at a record-setting 29-years-old. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is one of two independents caucusing with Democrats and labeled socialist by his philosophies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defining characteristic of this group is contempt, Kennedy said. To be a member of their club, you have to have contempt for America. Not gratitude as you should, but contempt. You have to believe that America was wicked when it was founded, and that it is more wicked today. You have to believe that America is racist, sexist and unjust. Thats why they all hate George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln, and Thomas Jefferson, and Dr. Seuss and Mr. Potato Head. You also have to believe, to be a member of their club, that America is irredeemable. We cant fix it. Weve got to burn it down. And finally, to fit in, youve got to be unhappy. Theyre just not happy people. Kennedy won a second term in 2022. From 1999-2016 he was state treasurer, the first two terms as a Democrat and the remainder as a Republican. He was in the state Department of Revenue from 1996-99. A small American flag stands at the corner of Veterans Boulevard and Williams Boulevard, a major intersection in Kenner that advocates say is frequently monitored by police, on August 11, 2025. (Christiana Botic/Verite New and CatchLight Local/Report for America) Alexander Sanchez had only been in the United States for two months when police officers pulled him over one morning in December near a major intersection in Kenner, about 10 miles outside of New Orleans. It was a routine stop the Kenner Police officers who pulled him over said Sanchez had run a red light but it ended with Sanchez in a federal immigration detention center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the police report, when an officer asked Sanchez for his drivers license and his cars registration and insurance information, Sanchez who was undocumented and could not obtain a drivers license in Louisiana handed him a Honduran passport. Speaking through an interpreter in a phone interview in June, Sanchez said he told the officer, No tengo permitido Im not permitted. Sanchez was booked into the Kenner jail for driving without a license and the traffic signal violation. He said he spent three days in jail and then he was taken to federal immigration detention in rural Louisiana. Hours after his arrest, Kenner, officers filled out a second arrest report for Sanchez based on a procedural request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement called an immigration detainer. Detainers are used to request that local law enforcement either let ICE know when theyre going to release detainees who may be subject to deportation or to hold them for 48 hours beyond when they would otherwise be released to facilitate their transfer to immigration detention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanchez would be held for months inside a notorious former state prison in Winnfield now used for immigration detainees with a history of alleged human rights abuses. (Sanchez is no longer in immigration detention, he asked that his current location not be disclosed. He is identified by his middle name and second last name for the same reason.) Sanchez case is hardly unique in Kenner, a suburb of New Orleans with a large Hispanic population. Gulf States Newsroom and Verite News analyzed Kenner Police Department arrest records for the first five months of this year and found that traffic arrests from stops and crashes in that city are serving as a gateway to immigration detention and possible deportation for many. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump came into office this year promising a nationwide crackdown undocumented immigrants. Among the tools his administration has used more extensively are detainer requests, which were up more than 60 percent in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, according to federal data reported by the Deportation Data Project. But in Kenner, the increase has been even more dramatic. ICE issued at least 129 immigration detainers through Kenner PD between January and May, a more than sixfold increase from the 20 detainers issued through Kenner PD during the same period in 2024. The vast majority of people booked on immigration detainers after being arrested by Kenner police from January through May were born in Honduras, according to the data shared by the Deportation Data Project. According to Kenner arrest records, at least 75 of them, more than half, were initially booked for traffic-related offenses following a stop or collision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most common traffic offense linked to an immigration detainer was driving without a license under state law, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Louisiana licenses often accompanied by other traffic-related charges. More than half of the people whom Kenner PD arrested for unlicensed driving between January and May 2025 became subjects of immigration detainer requests, like the one issued for Sanchez. Asked for comment on Sanchezs case, an ICE spokesperson said the agency defers to KPD. Rachel Taber, a member of New Orleans-based immigrants rights group Union Migrante, said she has been consulting with people whose loved ones have ended up detained and in some cases deported after traffic stops in Kenner. She stressed that the arrests can traumatize families who may be separated over a traffic offense. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The penalty doesnt fit the crime, Taber said. A minor traffic infraction does not merit never being able to hug your kids again. As of Tuesday (Aug. 12), it was not clear how many of the people for whom detainers were issued had more serious criminal records. Verite News and Gulf States Newsroom have requested all criminal background check information obtained by Kenner law enforcement. ICE issued at least 129 immigration detainers through Kenner PD between January and May, a more than sixfold increase from the same period in 2024. As more local departments, encouraged by Trump, are partnering with ICE, similar patterns are emerging throughout the country. In June, The Washington Post reported on how expanding partnerships between ICE and police agencies around the country have deployed traffic arrests as part of the machinery of immigration enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though Louisiana law enforcement agencies have partnered with ICE in the past, no such formal partnerships were in place at the beginning of this year, when Trump took office. This year, however, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry and his conservative allies in the state legislature have strongly pushed for their adoption. And in March, Kenner PD became one of the first Louisiana departments to ink a new agreement with the federal agency, although as of last month, that program had not been fully implemented, Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley said in an interview. To Conley, ICEs increased reliance on local law enforcement, and its use of detainers, shouldnt come as a surprise, given the emphasis on local-federal partnerships from both Trump and Landry, who has pushed local agencies in Louisiana to cooperate with federal immigration agencies. I think it was the perfect storm, with a governor coming in thats very law-and-order, and then you have the president coming in that ran on immigration reform and border security. So I dont think its a coincidence now that we had these spikes, he said. Conley said traffic enforcement is the number one concern for Kenner constituents. Driving without a license is a particular concern because of the risk that unlicensed and uninsured drivers may cause an accident, and the other drivers involved may never get made whole, Conley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michele Waslin, assistant director of the Immigration History Research Center at University of Minnesota, said that scenario is why some states have expanded eligibility for drivers licenses to undocumented immigrants. Obviously, people are driving without licenses. Youre not stopping them from driving, Waslin said. We want them to be licensed and insured so in the case that there is an accident, what you described wont happen. Waslin, who has studied the intersection of drivers license policy and immigration enforcement, said laws blocking undocumented immigrants from accessing licenses very clearly intersect with agreements with state and local police to identify people for deportation. Conley said his agency is not enforcing immigration law, but making arrests based on criminal laws. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre in our lockup based on a lawful criminal arrest. If [Homeland Security Investigations] calls and puts a detainer on them, Im going to honor the detainer, Conley said, referring to a branch of ICE that investigates immigration violations. Youre going to get brought to jail Sanchez fled Honduras after receiving death threats, according to his immigration attorney, Jeremy Jong. In October, he settled in the New Orleans metro area, near his aunt, Judith Cruz. On the morning Sanchez was arrested, he was driving to Cruzs house in St. Rose, which borders Kenner, to take her to church, Cruz said in an interview. Sanchez couldnt get a drivers license because Louisiana requires applicants for drivers licenses to show proof that they are in the country legally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Driving without a license is considered a misdemeanor in Louisiana. According to a Kenner city ordinance, the penalty for driving without a license is up to $500 in fines and no more than 60 days behind bars, The state penalty is more stringent , with possible fines and a maximum of six months behind bars. Though it is a crime, not all law enforcement agencies routinely arrest people for driving without a license. In Kenner, however, its required. For undocumented immigrants like Sanchez, an arrest can lead to an ICE detainer request, then a lengthy stay in immigration detention and possible deportation. Mothers have no choice but to work to provide for our families. And when you drive to work, you're taking your life in your hands. Judith Cruz Conley said police in Kenner have long been required to arrest anyone suspected of driving without a license. In an interview in May, the police chief said his department has been transparent about its policy. Here in the city of Kenner, its very well known that if youre operating a vehicle and youve never been issued a license, youre going to get brought to jail, he said. Kenner PD is a potential outlier. Verite News and Gulf States Newsroom asked 10 law enforcement agencies in the region, including the Louisiana State Police, about their policies and practices for encounters with unlicensed drivers. Of the seven that responded, only one other agency St. Charles Parish Sheriffs Office has a mandatory arrest policy on suspicion of driving without a license. Through a translator, Cruz said she knows many immigrants in her community who have been arrested by Kenner Police and booked into the citys local jail for traffic violations. She said some of them, like her nephew, ended up in the hands of immigration agents. She said mothers who need to provide for their children and cannot always get a ride will take the risk of driving without a license in order to get to and from work. Mothers have no choice but to work to provide for our families. And when you drive to work, youre taking your life in your hands, Cruz said. Its just very painful to think about all the children that could be left home without their families. There are two main ways that ICE learns of people in local jails who may have violated federal immigration law. When someone is booked into jail, that persons information is often electronically shared with multiple federal agencies, according to Lindsay Williams, a public information officer for ICE. If agents at ICE find the person is suspected of immigration violations, theyll contact the ICE office responsible for the region where the arrest was made, and that office will issue a detainer, Williams said. Local or state agencies can also inform ICE agents in their area about people in custody. Williams said officials in the New Orleans ICE office learn about arrests by Kenner PD through both methods. The records obtained by the newsrooms do not shed light on why authorities requested an immigration detainer for each individual in Kenner. Boom in federal-local partnerships under Trump The jump in detainers issued to Kenner PD aligns with a national increase in ICEs use of these requests that may be attributed to pressure from the Trump administration to ramp up immigration arrests in order to fulfill his campaign promise of mass deportations. In the early days of his second term Trump urged homeland security officials to secure more agreements with local agencies to collaborate on immigration enforcement. These partnerships called 287(g) agreements deputize local officials to perform some ICE duties. If you want to increase the number of deportations, if you want large numbers, then youre going to use these partnerships more and more, Waslin said. In Louisiana, Landry, an immigration hardliner and Trump ally, began laying the groundwork for increased state and local participation in immigration enforcement in 2024. During that years legislative session, Landry worked with Republican lawmakers on a civil law that prohibits law enforcement agencies from following so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with ICE. This June, Landry signed a new piece of legislation with sharper teeth into law, making it a crime, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, for local officials to refuse to comply with immigration detainer requests. A sign marks the headquarters of the Kenner Police Department on Veterans Boulevard Aug. 11, 2025. (Christiana Botic / Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for America) As of mid-August, ICE has 897 active partnerships with agencies around the country for the 287(g) program, according to the agency compared to 135 in December near the end of the Biden Administration. In Louisiana, which had no participants enrolled in the program at the end of last year, 17 agencies, including Kenner PD, have signed up. While the department is not yet fully accredited in the program, Williams, the ICE representative, said Kenner PDs existing relationship with the agency was a main contributing factor to securing the partnership. The relationship is a stellar example of state and local cooperation with ICE for upholding public safety and has been for many years across multiple presidential administrations, Williams said in an email. Once accredited, Kenner PD will operate under what is called a jail enforcement model, which authorizes police officers to investigate immigration statuses of people booked into the citys jail, place them into immigration proceedings and issue immigration detainers themselves. A failure to yield upended her life In some cases in Kenner, people were involved in traffic crashes other people had a hand in only to be arrested and later booked by immigration agents, Kenner PD records show. In an incident on March 7, a woman spoke to police as the victim of an alleged hit-and-run, according to a probable cause statement in arrest reports. Police arrested her for driving without a license, and she was booked on an ICE detainer the next day. Conley said people involved in an accident will be asked if they have a drivers license and will be held to the law. In Kenner, records do show arrests of some people who were accused of crimes with serious penalties and then booked on immigration detainers. For example, between January and May, 2025, Kenner police took at least three people into custody who were suspected of sex-related crimes and then booked on detainers. Nationally, the share of people arrested by immigration officers who also have past criminal convictions has fallen when compared to the previous presidential administration, one recent analysis showed. Jong, an attorney at immigrants rights organization Al Otro Lado, said hes had a few clients who have been detained after being arrested for traffic offenses in Kenner. He still thinks about a client, a woman from El Salvador, who was arrested by Kenner police officers for allegedly failing to obey a traffic sign back in 2017. Jong said the womans family was ruined by her deportation. A failure to yield upended her life and split up this family, Jong said. Her husband was torn up. Jong said knowing the possible consequences for arrests of immigrants in Kenner, he doesnt understand the departments policy of arresting people who are unable to obtain drivers licenses in the state for not having them. Theres so much discretion for a police department to determine what laws youre gonna put people in jail for, Jong said. It does seem like they are making the conscious decision to do something that is gonna lead to many of their residents getting deported. In an email, Conley said the responsibility lies with the individual who isnt licensed, and that Kenner is diverse and inclusive. Sanchez was detained for five months at Winn Correctional Center. He said near the end of his time there, he experienced headaches daily and became paranoid fearful of the danger he said he escaped in Honduras. He said he thinks fondly about his time in Louisiana before he was arrested because he felt safe. Things were going pretty well for me, he said. I wasnt in danger. He said he tries not to think about his time in immigration detention SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE This article first appeared on Verite News New Orleans and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) Teens looking to eat at a busy Chick-fil-A location in Kettering will need an adult to supervise. The Chick-fil-A location at 480 E. Stroop Road, announced its chaperone policy is in effect. According to the location, patrons 17-years-old or younger have to have someone over 21-years-old to accompany them during their visit. Individuals who do visit and are age 17 or younger without an adult chaperone might be asked to leave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful for your support and want to make sure Chick-fil-A Kettering is a safe and enjoyable place for everyone, said Chick-fil-A Kettering. Town & Country Kettering, the shopping mall behind the fast-food eatery, has had an updated teen chaperone policy since 2022. To learn more about the chicken joints location, 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. Editors note: The video above originally aired on July 31, 2025. NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) Democratic Nominee Zohran Mamdanis social media strategy that proved incredibly successful during the primary is now being replicated, including by former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is staying in the race as an independent. Henry Rosoff, senior political reporter for PIX 11, and J.C. Polanco, political analyst, attorney, and Assistant Professor at the University of Mount Saint Vincent, discuss key factors in the race for New York City Mayor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More News: NY Elections Polanco also highlights his research into Latino voters and their important impact on the race for New York City Mayor. Watch the video player for the full story Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. Even as Andrew James McGann sits in jail accused of the ghastly double murder of parents on a hike at a state park in the Ozark Mountains, key questions linger about the motive. McGann, 28, pleaded not guilty Thursday to two charges of capital murder, Prosecuting Attorney Brandon Carter told reporters following an arraignment. McGanns attorneys have declined to comment on the case. He is next due in court November 14, Carter said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The former teacher was arrested after a days-long manhunt as he got his hair cut at a salon in Springdale, Arkansas, about 30 miles north of Devils Den State Park. He is being held without bond at the Washington County Detention Center in Fayetteville, according to police and jail records. Here are some of the key questions about the July 26 fatal stabbing that remain unanswered: Was the attack targeted or random? While McGann admitted to killing Cristen Brink, 41, and her husband Clinton Brink, 43, during an interview with investigators, why he allegedly did it remains a mystery. Arkansas State Police Col. Mike Hagar previously said the killings appeared to be a completely random event because theres absolutely no indication, no reason whatsoever to believe there was any connection at all between the Brinks and McGann. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGann had recently been hired as a teacher candidate by Springdale Public Schools, according to a district spokesperson, but had not yet started working there. State records show he is currently licensed to teach elementary and middle school grades in at least three states: Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas. Most recently, he was a fifth-grade teacher in the Sand Springs Public Schools in Oklahoma, just west of Tulsa, according to the district. What happened during the attack? The couple and two of their daughters were hiking at the 2,500-acre Devils Den State Park in northwest Arkansas when McGann approached them, police said. The park has thick vegetation and little to no cell phone service. Clinton Brink was first ambushed by McGann, police said, and after witnessing the attack, Cristen Brink ran away with her daughters, ages 7 and 9. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mother returned to help her husband, Arkansas State Police Maj. Stacie Rhoads said during a news conference, but she lost her life, too. They (the Brinks) absolutely protected those girls to their fullest extent, to the point that it cost them their lives, Washington County Prosecuting Attorney Brandon Carter said. Were in awe of this mom and dad. Were also in awe of these girls. Andrew McGann, 28, was arrested in connection with the July killings of hikers Clinton and Cristen Brink at a state park in the Ozark Mountains. - Washington County Sheriffs Office At some point, a hiker on the trail saw the Brink children and found the bodies of their parents, according to a probable cause document filed by prosecutors. Its unclear how much time passed before the hiker was able to call 911 and report the deaths due to the lack of cell phone service in that area of the park. The couples bodies were found on the Devils Den Trail, audio from first responders indicated. While searching the trail, first responders heard shouts, scanner audio indicates, though its not clear from whom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities obtained a photo of a suspect and later, items seen in that photo were found during a search of McGanns home, along with knives, Rhoads said. However, it is unclear if the weapon used in the crime was among the collected items, Rhoads added. Officials have also not said what weapon they believe McGann used in the stabbing. How did investigators track the suspect down? Authorities launched an intense manhunt for McGann that ended four days after the murders when he was quietly apprehended at a hair salon. But its unclear what may have led authorities to the hair salon. The information needed to track down the suspect all started with those two little girls, said Hagar, the police chief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At first, the only description of the suspect police had was provided by the children who bore witness to the gruesome attack. But McGann was injured in the ordeal, resulting in blood loss, which allowed investigators to establish a DNA profile, officials said. Where are the victims children? The Brinks daughters were not harmed and are safe with relatives, police have said. The Brinks also have a third daughter who was not on the trail with them that day, authorities said. The family had recently moved from another state to Prairie Grove, a small town in northwest Arkansas near the Oklahoma state line, according to police. Their relatives asked for privacy in a statement before McGann was arrested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clinton and Cristen died heroes, protecting their little girls and they deserve justice. They will forever live on in all of our hearts, their relatives said. Next month the Prairie Grove community is slated to host a community fundraiser to support the Brink family, Prairie Grove Mayor David Faulk told CNN affiliate KTHV. The money raised from the event will go directly to the Brink children in an effort to give them a breath of fresh air and can be one less thing they have to worry about, he said. No matter what, theres going to be a stigma in the back of their mind that they will remember this is the place that theyve lost their parents, Faulk said, adding he hopes the Brink girls also remember Prairie Grove was a place where the community came together and supported them. CNNs Dianne Gallagher, Andy Rose, Dalia Faheid, Rebekah Riess and Hanna Park contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com NORTHERN TIER, Pa. (WETM) Back-to-school is just around the corner in Pennsylvania, as many area schools in our region reopen in August, but not every school starts the same day. Schools in Tioga County and Bradford County begin classes next week. Here is a list of area school districts and return dates. Tioga County Northern Tioga School District: Aug 20 Southern Tioga School District: Aug 20 Wellsboro Area School District: Aug 20 Bradford County Athens Area School District: Aug 25 Canton Area School District: Aug 20 Northeast Bradford School District: Aug 21 Sayre Area School District: Aug 20 Towanda Area School District: Aug 21 Troy Area School District: Aug 20 Wyalusing Area School District: Aug 20 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Lots of construction is underway at the Kilcawley Student Center after part of it closed in May for renovations, and progress is being made. $51 million: thats the price to pay to give the Kilcawley Student Center on Youngstown State Universitys campus a big face-lift. President Bill Johnson says theyre near the end of Phase 1 of the project. Its been gutted, Johnson said. New floors, new walls. Were going to knock down some external walls and change the facade, change our dining. We have dining facilities all over that building. Were going to consolidate our dining facilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of the center shut down in May to undergo the renovations. Inside, most walls are torn down and the floors ripped up. There is nothing standing over there except the load-bearing walls and a few columns. And were going to do a little bit of external facade upgrades, but most of the works going to be inside, Johnson said. Parts of the student center are open for students to still get something to eat. Post-grad student Manoj Reddy is happy to see the upgrades, and says he frequented the center when getting his masters degree. We have some 1,300 international students from all over the world that come here and go to school. And its important that they have a welcoming environment, Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even though the project closes off majority of the student center, President Johnson says the enhancements are long overdue. When students come to Youngstown State University, we want them to see a vision of the future where were going, not where weve been stuck from since 1908. The project should be completed by the fall of 2027. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. The case of a St. Petersburg man accused of killing his 2-year-old son and the childs mother in 2023 has been delayed by questions about his competence, which were exacerbated this summer when a psychologist appointed to evaluate him went on a European vacation before submitting her findings. Ohiana Torrealday was subpoenaed to appear at the Pinellas County Justice Center Thursday morning for a hearing to explain why she didnt comply with the courts request to submit a report or communicate with lawyers about being on a sabbatical. Weve accommodated your vacation, so we ask that you accommodate our schedule, Judge Susan St. John told Torrealday Thursday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement St. John appointed Torrealday in March to evaluate Thomas Mosley, 23, accused of stabbing Pashun Jeffery, 20, more than 100 times at her apartment in April 2023. Their 2-year-old son, Taylen Mosley, was found dead in the mouth of an alligator at Lake Maggiore. His official cause of death was later found to be drowning. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the case, which has been entangled in competency arguments. Mosley was previously found incompetent six months after his arrest and spent time at a state hospital before returning to the Pinellas County Jail. More details emerge about killings of St. Petersburg boy and his mom St. John legally could have sentenced Torrealday to up to six months in jail or issued a fine, but said she didnt want to be cruel and instead simply asked the psychologist to be compliant moving forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Torrealday apologized for poorly managing communication and agreed to be present for future court dates. Mosleys evidentiary competency hearing began this week with testimony from his mom and brother. It will continue next week with testimony from Torrealday as well as an autism disorder specialist, according to Mosleys defense attorneys. When Renee Mosley took the stand Tuesday afternoon to talk about her son, she took several pauses to swallow her tears. Assistant Public Defender Margaret Russell asked her to tell the court about Mosleys educational background. She enrolled him in three elementary schools in Pinellas County because he kept running into learning and behavioral issues, she said. He repeated third grade twice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said she tried to homeschool him at 16, but he ended up quitting school altogether at 18. He just had a different way of learning, she said. Russell asked if Mosley was upset by loud noises or sensitive to light as a kid, signs of being on the autism spectrum. Renee Mosley said her son tended to overreact to loud noises and being told what to do. He also had a strange focus on specific objects, she said. One time, he sat on the sidewalk just staring at his motionless scooter for hours, she said. His first job was a seasonal bathroom attendant at Tropicana Field. He was then supposed to work a waste management job for the city of St. Petersburg, but when he showed up on the first day, he didnt like the attitude of one of the workers and walked off the job, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mosley attempted suicide twice before the age of 20, she said. He was taken into involuntary mental health custody both times. Jeffery had thrown Mosley a 21st birthday party in the apartment on March 29, 2023. The next morning, her family grew worried when she didnt answer a FaceTime call, according to an arrest affidavit. When they arrived at the Lincoln Shores apartment at 11601 Fourth St. N, they saw blood on the sidewalk. Management unlocked the door to a very violent crime scene, according to the affidavit. Jefferywas found dead in the apartment, but her son was not there. A bloody cleaning bottle was found under a bed, according to arrest records. A fingerprint on the bottle was later identified as Mosleys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police issuedan Amber Alert for the toddler and deployed drones and a helicopter. A bloodhound from the Manatee County Sheriffs Office K-9 unit was brought to the scene. The next morning, someone reported seeing something in an alligators mouth at Dell Holmes Park on the northwest side of Lake Maggiore. It was Taylens body. Mosley left the apartment around 8:42 p.m. the evening of Jefferys death and traveled to the Lake Maggiore area, south of downtown St. Petersburg, according to arrest records. He arrived at his mothers St. Petersburg house which is about 10 blocks from the lake just past 9 p.m. with severe lacerations to his hands and arms.He was later admitted to St. Anthonys Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wounds were consistent with injuries caused by slippage during a knife attack, according to records. St. John said closing arguments in the case on whether Mosley is competent to stand trial are expected next week. North Korea has ridiculed South Koreas attempts to restart dialogue, while denying that it has removed propaganda loudspeakers from the border as Seoul has suggested. Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, claimed on Thursday that the South Korean military was lying when it said Pyongyang had taken the measure in response to its own recent dismantling of its front-line speakers. The senior official said that North Koreans have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, South Korean army spokesperson Colonel Lee Sung-joon cautioned against being easily swayed by North Korean statements, suggesting that Pyongyang often makes false claims. The latest comments from the Korean peninsula come several days after South Koreas new liberal President Lee Jae-myung, who described the alleged loudspeaker move as a reciprocal measure, expressed hope that the neighbours could gradually reopen dialogue and communication. Kim dented such optimism on Thursday when she dismissed South Koreas peace overtures, saying that Seouls policy towards Pyongyang remains unchanged and can never change. Since assuming office in June, Lee has attempted to restart diplomacy with the North, a change of tack from the hard-line policies of the countrys previous conservative government. However, analysts have expressed doubts about whether the approach will reap dividends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of such efforts, the South Korean government decided to stop propaganda broadcasts from loudspeakers at the border. South Koreas Unification Ministry said Seoul would pursue sustained steps to improve relations, but admitted that the process would require patience. Tensions between the neighbours could increase next week when annual US-South Korean military exercises begin. As well as the loudspeakers issue, Kim rejected suggestions in the South Korean press that Russian President Vladimir Putin would give his US counterpart Donald Trump a message from Pyongyang during their talks in Alaska on Friday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Why should we send a message to the US side? she said, noting that Pyongyang does not want to resume dialogue with the Americans, with whom it has not held talks since Trumps first presidency. North Korea and Russia have deepened their alliance since the Kremlin began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Pyongyang has sent Moscow thousands of troops and large quantities of military supplies to help Russia in its war. On Wednesday, the North Korean and Russian leaders held a phone call, with Putin sharing information about his upcoming talks with Trump, according to Russias state-run Tass news agency. President Donald Trump campaigned on an America First policy that rejected the United States traditional role of global policeman. His first 200 days in office have said otherwise. Trump is relishing his role as peacemaker in chief, according to a White House official granted anonymity to speak candidly about the president, believing he can make deals that have eluded his predecessors, showing simultaneously his acumen and his power whether hes successful or not. He loves being in the position to be a kingmaker for all of these smaller, weaker countries around the world, the person said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump reminds audiences regularly of the wars he believes he has stopped, emphasizing how long the conflicts have raged. Last week, Trump brought the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to the White House to secure a peace agreement between the long-hostile countries, the sixth such deal of his second term, although his exact role in at least one case is in dispute. Ive solved six wars in the last six months, a little more than six months now, and Im very proud of it, Trump said Thursday in the Oval Office. But on Friday, Trump will face perhaps his toughest test as he meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in an effort to secure an end to his war in Ukraine. Trump, who has labeled himself the president of peace, has turned his attention to these conflicts in part because of a belief that he can use U.S. clout to end conflicts, according to a second White House official granted anonymity to discuss internal thinking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a contrast to his 2024 campaign, during which he adopted an America First approach, emphasizing domestic affairs over foreign conflict. There's only so much that you know on the campaign trail and then when you get into the West Wing, you understand what the hell is actually happening in the world, the second official said, referring to intelligence briefings Trump received as president. And in many ways, had [Trump] known this, I think it probably would have been a larger foundation of his campaign. Trumps turn of attention to settling conflicts also stems in part from his desire to win a Nobel Peace Prize, which he has long sought. Trump, in his pursuit, went so far as to cold-callthe Norwegian finance minister last month to ask about the prize. The prize has also become a go-to for foreign leaders looking to curry favor with the president. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At least six world leaders involved in recent agreements have nominated Trump or endorsed his nomination, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet. Manet nominated Trump after the president brought Cambodia and neighboring Thailand to the table by threatening to halt trade negotiations unless they ended a border dispute. In addition to Cambodia and Thailand, White House officials say Trump has played a role in ceasefire pacts or other agreements between: Iran and Israel, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, India and Pakistan, Egypt and Ethiopia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the U.S. and the Houthis in Yemen. Trump has had less success ending the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. And White House officials have provided few details of Trumps strategic involvement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People close to Trump say the quick succession of peace deals between warring countries is aligned with his campaign vision of putting America First, in part, because the president is tying peace agreements with trade agreements as he recently did with Armenia and Azerbaijan. With every one of these peace agreements, there has been some economic benefit to America, the first White House official noted. Critics question Trumps sincerity in securing peace and the permanence of such agreements. John Bolton, who was Trumps national security adviser during the presidents first term, pointed in particular to the Cambodia and Thailand agreement where there has already been violence post ceasefire, according to media reports. "He got them to sign a ceasefire to make sure they could get their trade deals done, Bolton said. Maybe the ceasefire will last more than a few days. Who knows? The underlying causes of the tension, the border issues have not been resolved. " Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a Donald Trump first policy, Bolton said. He wants the Nobel Peace Prize. I think everybody acknowledges now that's what's motivating him." Trumps interest in landing international agreements is not a complete policy departure from the presidents first term. At that time, Trump brokered the Abraham Accords, a set of agreements that stabilized diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab countries. Trump also played a role in the reestablishment of economic ties between Serbia and Kosovo. While campaigning for his second term, Trump emphasized reduced engagement in international organizations and pushed a more transactional and nationalistic approach something he and his team called America First policy, rejecting the full label of isolationist. On Friday, Trump will bring that policy into a one-on-one meeting with Putin. In the days leading to the summit, the president and his senior aides have downplayed expectations, with the president even calling it a feel-out meeting. Of the conflicts raging around the world when Trump took office, he thought Russia and Ukraine would be the easiest one to resolve. On Thursday he acknowledged, its actually the most difficult. SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE) A group of airmen from Kirtland Air Force Base traveled in a helicopter to Santa Fe and hiked for multiple hours across rugged terrain at night to rescue three teens, one of whom had a medical episode, near Lake Catherine and Santa Fe Baldy earlier this month. The crew recieved a call for assistance from the state at 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 2 regarding a group of three teens in need of help, one of whom was repeatedly losing consciousness, according to KAFB. Airmen from the 58th Special Operations Wing and the 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron accepted the request and left the Albuquerque base in two helicopters and traveled 60 miles to the location of the hikers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trio was located at an elevation of approximately 11,300 feet in steep, forested terrain, KAFB wrote in a press release. High winds prevented the airmen from landing or hovering over the location, so the helicopters landed about half a mile from the hikers. From there, two pararescuemen from Kirtlands 351 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron hiked two hours to the location of the teens while the helicopters followed in the sky, providing light and communication support. The pararescuemen found the group and found that one of the teens was passing out and had chest pain. The pararescuemen provided initial medical aid and helped the hikers back to the landing zone. All three hikers were then taken to the Santa Fe Airport, where an ambulance was waiting to take them to a local hospital. This mission highlights the skill, adaptability and training of our Airmen, 1st Lt. Will Witherow, public affairs officer for the 58th SOW, stated in the press release. Teamwork between aircrew, pararescuemen, maintenance personnel and the New Mexico Search and Rescue team ensured lives were saved. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. According to a rumor that circulated online in August 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested and detained Sarah Shaw, a woman from New Zealand residing in Washington state, along with her young son, despite both allegedly having legal visas. Shaw's lawyer, Minda Thorward, told Snopes ICE arrested Sarah and her son in July 24, 2025, and released them 23 days later on Aug. 15. The arrest reportedly occurred when the pair returned to the U.S. after dropping Shaw's older children off for a flight from Vancouver in Canada. Thorward said authorities had issued Shaw a "combo card" consisting of separate permissions to work and travel and that Shaw had renewed her work permit, mistakenly thinking that the work renewal alone allowed her to travel outside the U.S. and return. Snopes reached out to ICE to ask for more about for details about Shaw's case and why ICE detained her on July 24. We await replies to our queries. In August 2025, a claim (archived) circulated online that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested and detained a mother from New Zealand and her 6-year-old son despite both allegedly having legal visas for the U.S. (X user @jonfavs) One X user shared the story on the social network, writing: Sarah Shaw has a legal visa. Her 6-year-old son has a legal visa. She was driving back home, to Washington state, after dropping off her other two sons at the Vancouver airport. ICE threw her and her youngest son in an unmarked van and sent them to a detention center in Texas, where they're still being held. A mom and her 6-year-old son. News outlets in New Zealand, the U.S. and the U.K. widely reported the story about Shaw's detention. The claim spread across Facebook (archived), Threads (archived), Bluesky (archived) and Reddit (archived). Snopes readers also wrote in asking for more details about the story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to reports, ICE detained Shaw and her 6-year-old son, Isaac, on July 24, 2025, when the pair returned to the U.S. after dropping Shaw's older children off for a flight from Vancouver, British Columbia, in Canada. ICE reportedly transferred Shaw and her son to a detention center in Texas. Shaw's lawyer, Minda Thorward, told Snopes via email on Aug. 16, 2025, that Shaw had separate permissions to work and live in the U.S. She had successfully renewed her work authorization and was in the process of applying for lawful permanent residency but did not have the correct travel documentation to reenter the U.S. when ICE detained her. Thorward said ICE released Shaw and her son on Aug. 15 and that the pair had returned to Washington. A spokesperson for the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) wrote in an email on Aug. 14, "Consular officials have been in contact with the New Zealander in detention in the United States. For privacy reasons no further information will be provided." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Snopes reached out to ICE, the Embassy of New Zealand in the U.S. and Victoria Besancon, a friend of Shaw's acting with power of attorney, to ask about the status of Shaw's case and to confirm details about why ICE detained her on July 24. We await replies to our queries. Shaw's lawyer called arrests 'unnecessary and cruel' Speaking to Fox 13 Seattle, Thorward said Shaw made "basically what amounts to an administrative error" with her missing visa renewal, and that ICE's detention of her and her son was "unnecessary and cruel." According to reports, Shaw's children had valid travel authorizations, meaning they could legally travel in and out of the U.S. Therefore, ICE's arrest of Shaw's son was unlawful, according to Thorward. Thorward told journalists in New Zealand that Shaw originally had a spousal visa, but the marriage ended amid allegations of domestic abuse. The Guardian newspaper reported Shaw had an approved I-360 form before ICE arrested her in July 2025. An approved I-360 form allowed victims of domestic abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful resident a pathway to lawful permanent residence in the U.S. The form was not a visa in itself but rather allowed approved applicants to apply for a green card, a visa that gives the holder the right to live and work in the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thorward told Snopes Shaw had a pending I-360 VAWA Self-Petition. VAWA is an abbreviation of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) that affords legal protection to victims of domestic abuse and other violence against women. Becuase Shaw was applying for lawful permanent status in the U.S., Thorward said, authorities issued her a "combo card" consisting of separate permissions to work and travel. Shaw had renewed her work permit, mistakenly thinking that the work renewal allowed her to travel outside the U.S. and return. Thorward called Shaw's confusion "an understandable mistake." According to Thorward, she and Shaw filed petitions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to terminate her and her son's removal proceedings and would seek to resolve Shaw's legal status in the U.S. as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shaw reportedly had an immigration hearing scheduled for the end of August 2025. Sources: Corlett, Eva. "New Zealand Woman and Six-Year-Old Son Detained for Three Weeks by Ice in US Enduring 'Terrifying' Ordeal." The Guardian, 13 Aug. 2025. The Guardian, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/13/new-zealand-woman-six-year-old-son-ice-detention-us-ntwnfb. "Detained Kiwi's Release Anticipated This Week." NZ Herald, https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/nz-woman-detained-in-us-may-be-released-this-week-says-father/3PG6WB7RYNBWZLRWH2H4OEC2NE/. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. "Embassy Staff in Contact with Kiwi Woman Detained in US Immigration Facility." RNZ, 13 Aug. 2025, https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/569833/embassy-staff-in-contact-with-kiwi-woman-detained-in-us-immigration-facility. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Father of NZ Woman Detained by US Immigration Believes She'll Be Released This Week." RNZ, 14 Aug. 2025, https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/top/569897/father-of-nz-woman-detained-by-us-immigration-believes-she-ll-be-released-this-week. Gordon, Natasha, and Lochlan Lineham. "New Zealand Officials Bid for Release of Kiwi Woman Sarah Shaw, Son from US Immigration Centre." The New Zealand Herald, 12 Aug. 2025, https://archive.ph/JvGQq. Guzman, Alejandra. "WA Mother, Son Detained by ICE in Texas after Trip to Northern Border." FOX 13 Seattle, 13 Aug. 2025, https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/wa-mother-son-detained-ice. McConnell, Glenn. "'She'd Been Kidnapped': Friend's Fears after Kiwi Mum and Son Taken by US Immigration Police." Stuff.Co.Nz, 12 Aug. 2025, https://www.stuff.co.nz/politics/360788876/us-immigration-police-reportedly-detain-kiwi-mum-and-son#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThat%E2%80%99s%20what%20makes%20this%20so%20ridiculous.%20For%20the%20first%20two%20and%20a%20half%20weeks%2C%20ICE%20didn%E2%80%99t%20even%20put%20Sarah%20or%20her%20son%20in%20their%20locator%20system%2C%E2%80%9D%20Besancon%20told%20Stuff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Online Detainee Locator System. https://locator.ice.gov/odls/#/search. Accessed 14 Aug. 2025. Petition for Amerasian, Widow(Er), or Special Immigrant | USCIS. 1 Aug. 2025, https://www.uscis.gov/i-360. Updates: Aug. 15, 2025: This report was updated with a statement from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and reports about Shaw's release. Aug. 18, 2025: This report was updated to include details about the case from Shaw's lawyer, Minda Thorward. In August 2025, a claim circulated online that a federal prison in Texas cleared Jeffrey Epstein associate and convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell to leave the facility on work release. The claim came from a Substack blog post by Allison Gill, the owner of an independent podcast network and a former government employee. Gill's blog post included screenshots of what she claimed was Maxwell's Bureau of Prisons (BOP) record that showed a "custody level" that implied Maxwell was allowed to leave prison to work. Snopes could not independently verify Gill's screenshots because the blog post used an anonymous source. A BOP spokesperson said the agency could not vouch for the screenshots' authenticity.. However, according to BOP guidelines, minimum security prisons like FPC Bryan, to which Maxwell transferred on Aug. 1, 2025, can only house inmates with custody levels that allow them to leave the facility's secure perimeter for work. Therefore, according to the BOP's own guidelines, Maxwell would have such a custody level. In August 2025, a claim (archived) circulated online that a federal prison in Texas cleared convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of deceased financier and fellow convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, to leave the facility on work release. Maxwell was sentenced to 20 years after she was found guilty of multiple charges including sex trafficking of a minor. Allison Gill, a former government employee and the founder and CEO of MSW Media, Inc., a podcast network of independent creators, wrote on Bluesky: "NEW: In addition to her sex offender waiver, Ghislaine Maxwell has an 'out' designation that would allow her to leave the facility for work assignments." The claim originated on Gill's Substack blog (archived). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to that blog post, Gill received proof from an anonymous source of Maxwell's "security score, custody level, transfer code, public safety factor, and sex offender waiver." That information included Maxwell's custody level, which reportedly allowed her to leave the prison on work release. The claim also circulated on X (archived), Facebook (archived), Instagram (archived), Threads (archived), Reddit (archived) and TikTok (archived). Snopes readers wrote in asking if the claim was true. However, though Snopes could not independently verify the screenshots in Gill's blog post, according to BOP policy Maxwell likely did have permission to work outside the prison walls at FPC Bryan. Maxwell transferred to the minimum security prison on Aug. 1, 2025. According to BOP policy (Page 10), those prisons only house inmates with two types of custody levels, Community and Out, both of which permit leaving the facility's secure perimeter to work (Pages 12, 15). Snopes doesn't rely on anonymous sources in our reporting and could not independently locate or vet the source that sent Gill the information about Maxwell's alleged confinement conditions. Gill told Snopes she viewed Maxwell's records herself and verified her source's identity as a person who would have been able to access them but could not share more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson from the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the agency responsible for federal prisons and the care of inmates in the U.S., said via email on Aug. 13 that the bureau "cannot vouch for the authenticity of the documents." The spokesperson added, "For privacy, safety, and security reasons, we do not discuss the conditions of confinement for any incarcerated individual." We reached out to Maxwell's lawyer, David Oscar Marcus, to ask if he could authenticate the information in Gill's screenshots and await a reply. Parsing BOP's custody levels The screenshots in Gill's blog post reflected a variety of information about Maxwell, some of which was publicly available. The information in the screenshots mirrored the type of information normally provided on a custody classification form, a form the BOP used to determine the level of supervision an inmate needed in practice, the form specifies what level of security prison an inmate could go to. For example, news media widely reported Maxwell's conviction and sentence in 2022 and her move from FCI Tallahassee, a low-security prison, to FCP Bryan, a minimum-security prison, on Aug. 1. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That move came a week after Maxwell met with Deputy U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche in July 2025. Former BOP employees criticized the move. One told NBC it was a "travesty of justice." Others pointed out that it was extremely rare for a convicted sex offender to obtain the sort of waiver Maxwell got that made her move possible. Likewise, the BOP's custody classification policy was publicly available. Those guidelines dictate which inmates could be housed at what types of prisons. The screenshots in Gill's blog post claimed Maxwell had a Public Safety Factor (PSF), which the BOP assigns to inmates based on convictions and behavior, of sex offender. According to BOP policy (Page 51), an inmate with a PSF of sex offender "will be housed in at least a Low security level institution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, also according to BOP policy (Page 44), the Chief of the Designation and Sentence Computation Center (DSCC Administrator) could apply a Management Variable "when placement has been made and/or maintained at an institution level inconsistent with the inmate's scored security level." One of these variables (Page 47) was "PSF waived." According to the screenshots in Gill's blog post and reporting that predated this, Maxwell got this waiver and consequently managed to transfer to a minimum security prison despite her sex offender PSF. The screenshots in Gill's blog post also claimed Maxwell had a custody level of "Out." The BOP states (Page 15), "An inmate who has OUT custody may be assigned to less secure housing and may be eligible for work details outside the institution's secure perimeter with a minimum of two-hour intermittent staff supervision." According to BOP policy (Page 10), minimum security prisons could house prisoners with Community or Out levels of custody, with Community being the lowest level of supervision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given that FPC Bryan is a minimum security prison, according to BOP policy, Maxwell must have one of these levels of custody. Both allow leaving the prison for work. In sum ... While Gill's screenshots did reflect some correct and publicly available knowledge about Maxwell's case, Snopes could not independently verify that the specific screenshots authentically showed Maxwell's BOP records. The BOP said it could not vouch for the screenshots' authenticity. However, according to the agency's own policy, Maxwell could have one of two levels of custody at FPC Bryan, both of which allowed work outside the prison's secure perimeter. Gill reported she had no proof that Maxwell had undertaken work outside FPC Bryan. Snopes also found no evidence that Maxwell had left the prison for work at the time of this writing. Sources: BP-A0338 . U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE FEDERAL BUREAU OF PRISONS, June 10, https://www.bop.gov/policy/forms/BP_A0338.pdf. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cohen, Luc, et al. "Ghislaine Maxwell Sentenced to 20 Years for 'horrific' Sex Trafficking." Reuters, 29 Jun. 2022. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/ghislaine-maxwell-be-sentenced-sex-trafficking-conviction-2022-06-28/. @DAGToddBlanche. "Today, I Met with Ghislaine Maxwell, and I Will Continue My Interview of Her Tomorrow. ." X, 25 Jul. 2025, https://x.com/DAGToddBlanche/status/1948519521071047090. FCI Tallahassee. https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/tal/. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025. FPC Bryan. https://www.bop.gov/locations/institutions/bry/. Accessed 13 Aug. 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ghislaine Maxwell Sentenced to 20 Years for Helping Epstein." AP News, 29 Jun. 2022, https://apnews.com/article/ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-sentencing-aeac127f9cc3811d975ce8e10d171260. Goudsward, Andrew, et al. "Ghislaine Maxwell Moved to Prison Camp, Trump Says No Plea for Pardon." Reuters, 2 Aug. 2025. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/world/us/ghislaine-maxwell-moved-prison-camp-trump-says-no-plea-pardon-2025-08-01/. Southern District of New York | Ghislaine Maxwell Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison For Conspiring With Jeffrey Epstein To Sexually Abuse Minors | United States Department of Justice. 28 Jun. 2022, https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/ghislaine-maxwell-sentenced-20-years-prison-conspiring-jeffrey-epstein-sexually-abuse. "Trump Administration Considering Releasing Transcript of DOJ's Interview with Ghislaine Maxwell." NBC News, 6 Aug. 2025, https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/trump-administration-ghislaine-maxwell-todd-blanche-transcript-rcna223301. U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Prisons. Inmate Security Designation and Custody Classification. 4 Sep. 2019, https://www.bop.gov/policy/progstat/5100_008cn.pdf. President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are slated to have a high-stakes meeting Friday at a military base in Alaska with origins that were crucial to the U.S.s fight against the Soviet Union in the Cold War. It remains to be seen whether the frosty Alaska climate will temper tensions between the two world leaders as Russia continues its war against Ukraine. Its the first publicly known in-person confab between the two world leaders since their Helsinki meeting in 2018, and Trump has tamped down expectations on the eve of their latest summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe now [Putin]s convinced that hes going to make a deal. Hes going to make a deal, Trump said Thursday on Fox News Radio. Were going to find out Im going to know very quickly. Trump targeted Putin on social media in April, pleading Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets get the Peace Deal DONE! Despite ongoing peace talks and Trumps pledge to quickly resolve the conflict, Russias invasion and war against Ukraine has persisted. Here are some details about where the two leaders will meet: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson dates to 1940s Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage was created in 2010 through the consolidation of the Air Forces Elmendorf base and the Armys Fort Richardson. Its origins owe much to the Cold War. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The physical location of the base was built in the 1940s as an air defense site and central command point that played a major role in thwarting Soviet enemies. It housed more than 200 fighter jets in the 1950s, and it became known as the Top Cover for North America for its role in flight tracking and monitoring potential threats from foreign adversaries. It is the headquarters for the nations Alaskan Command, 11th Air Force Airborne Division and the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region. The base is now home to many families, with a population of more than 32,000. It has a group yoga event scheduled on Saturday, according to the bases community calendar. Next door to Russia The U.S. bought Alaska from the Russian Empire more than 150 years ago for $7.2 million, the equivalent of more than $156 million today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Bering Strait lies between the two, with a narrow crossing between the Pacific and Arctic oceans. Its thought to be one of the initial avenues for explorers finding the uppermost parts of North America. Alaska is a beautiful state that is geographically convenient for both parties, a White House official told The Hill of the site selection. It was an appropriate venue for President Trump to accept President Putins request to meet. Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R), who was the GOP vice presidential nominee in 2008 was frequently parodied as supposedly claiming her foreign credentials by being able to see Russia from [her] house because of the states proximity, though that was not what she actually said. Theyre our next-door neighbors, and you can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska, from an island in Alaska, she told an ABC News reporter during the 2008 campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Updated at 12:58 p.m. EDT Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, seen during a June 17, 2024, news conference at the Statehouse in Topeka, says only he can represent the state in federal litigation. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) TOPEKA Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach on Thursday asked a federal court to remove Gov. Laura Kelly from a multi-state lawsuit challenging the Trump administrations refusal to release grant money to states. Kelly joined 22 states and the District of Columbia in the lawsuit last month. Kobach, a Republican, said the Democratic governor doesnt have the authority under Kansas law to represent the state in federal litigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor is purporting to represent the state of Kansas and claiming that Kansas demands and wants the federal government to continue spending this money that these federal agencies have deemed to be unnecessary and wasteful, Kobach told legislative leaders at a meeting Thursday at the Statehouse. The states sued the Office of Management and Budget over decisions by President Donald Trump and the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, to terminate billions of dollars in federal funding that had been allocated by Congress. The lawsuit argues those cuts have had a devastating impact on state efforts to combat violent crime, educate students, safeguard public health, protect clean drinking water, conduct medical and scientific research, provide meals for students in school, and ensure access to unemployment benefits. Olivia Taylor-Puckett, a spokeswoman for Kelly, said the governor joined the lawsuit in her official capacity as governor of the state. The Kansas Constitution vests supreme executive power in the governor and makes Kansas governors responsible for enforcement of the laws, she said. As such, the governor oversees all executive agencies in Kansas and has the power to bring a suit and be sued in her official capacity in fulfilling her constitutional duty, Taylor-Puckett said. The attorney general was repeatedly asked to exercise his responsibility to protect the people of Kansas and he refused. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the governor acted to prevent infringement of states rights and the best interests of Kansas. When the governor joined the lawsuit, her office said the Trump administration had terminated millions of dollars used to purchase goods from Kansas farmers, to mitigate natural disasters and to enhance childhood education. Kobach appeared before the Legislative Coordinating Council, which consists of five Republicans and two Democrats, to ask for a statement of support in dropping Kansas from the litigation. He said he filed an amicus brief Thursday to inform the Massachusetts federal court of his assertion that state law allows only the attorney general to represent the state in federal litigation. Otherwise the court might assume that a governor walking into a federal court might have the authority to represent the state in court, but under Kansas law, that is not the case, Kobach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The council on a party-line vote approved a motion made by House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican who is running for state insurance commissioner, that declares the governor is violating Kansas law and should be dropped from the case. Even if the attorney general were representing Kansas, doing so would not be in the states interest, Hawkins said. Kobach said Kelly did ask him to join the lawsuit and that he declined because he believes it is destined to fail. He pointed to the Trump administrations insistence that a federal regulation allows agencies to terminate a grant if it no longer effectuates agency priorities. We dont believe that any state has the ability to compel the federal agency to spend the money, and so, purely on legal grounds, we rejected the governors request, Kobach said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said the states could get a favorable ruling at the district court level in Massachusetts, where the case was filed, but that their legal claims are not winners. Weve all heard in the news there are district judges on every position on the political spectrum, and judicial, ideological, jurisprudential spectrum, Kobach said. When this case goes up on appeal, the states seeking the grants are going to lose. In the lawsuit, the states argue that the Trump administration is attempting to redefine a regulation that has never before been used to justify an agency withholding grant money when the agency simply changes its mind. The regulation provides no support for a broad power to terminate grants on a whim based on newly identified agency priorities, the lawsuit said. South Florida rapper Kodak Black is accused of violently abusing the mother of two of his children and failing to pay child support amid a contentious custody dispute playing out in Broward County court, according to police reports and court documents. The rapper, who was recently honored with the key to Pompano Beach, has not faced any criminal charges pertaining to the alleged domestic violence. Meanwhile, his ex, Maranda Johnson, 23, was arrested at the courthouse on Aug. 7 after showing up for a custody hearing, charged with smashing the windshields of his luxury cars in 2024. She also faces a misdemeanor charge over getting into a fight with a woman at their daughters birthday party in Wilton Manors in January. Johnsons attorney, Jodie Bassichis, described the recent arrest as an intimidation tactic against her client. Since Johnson started fighting for custody and child support, she has faced a flurry of lawsuits and the two separate criminal cases this month. She was served with one of the lawsuits while sitting in jail Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All I wanted was to get away from a toxic relationship and have Dad do his part as a father, Johnson told the South Florida Sun Sentinel on Saturday. Related Articles But Blacks attorney, Bradford Cohen, says his client, whose legal name is Bill Kapri, has never been charged with domestic violence against Johnson and has always financially supported the two children they share, a 1-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter. The only thing I know about is there are criminal cases pending against Ms. Johnson and none pending against Mr. Kapri, Cohen said, pointing out that Johnson had also faced a charge of burglary with assault last year, which was later dismissed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The timing of the arrests and lawsuits has nothing to do with the custody case, he added, saying that cases naturally evolve when evidence is produced and when individuals make statements. An emergency pick-up order, allegations of violence The custody case began in February when Johnson filed a motion for an emergency pick-up order before Broward Judge Lauren Alperstein, saying that Black had taken their son in January following the fight at the birthday party, telling her she would never see him again. Until Black left with their son, Johnson said, she had been the sole caretaker for their two children since their relationship ended in March 2024. She wrote in the motion that she had not seen their son in weeks and she did not believe he was with Black, pointing to news stories depicting the rapper eating chicken in the middle of the street in Atlanta, the 11-month-old nowhere in sight. Alperstein granted the pick-up order later that month, and their son has since returned to Johnson. But the fight over custody and child support continued. Blacks family attorney, Vanessa Prieto, filed a motion for full custody in February, writing that Johnson had tried to attack the rapper at their daughters birthday party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The party had erupted into several fights after Black brought three mothers of his children to the party who were unhappy to see each other, according to a probable cause affidavit for Johnsons arrest. The rapper has five children with four different mothers. Related Articles (Johnson) became extremely jealous and erratic, and in a fit of rage, attempted to attack (Black) while he was holding his baby, Prieto wrote in a motion for full custody. The affidavit states that a woman told officers that Johnson punched her in the face. Officers observed a very small scratch consistent of a fingernail scratch on her face. Another witness told officers that one mother attempted to fight Black three times inside the venue. Blacks motion argued that he should have full custody under Greysons Law, a Florida law that requires judges to consider domestic violence while making custody decisions, countering the states mandatory presumption of 50-50 custody. Prieto told the Sun Sentinel that, since then, Black has decided to seek 50-50 custody, but had temporarily requested full custody due to the violence of the mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson denied Blacks allegations. Rather, she argued in court filings that she is a victim of domestic violence by him. She is seeking sole custody, also citing Greysons Law and pointing to Blacks prior arrests, including in South Carolina, where he was charged with raping a girl who was still in high school; he later pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of assault. In April, two months after the custody case began, Johnson went to the Coral Springs Police Department with Bassichis, her attorney. She laid a series of photographs on the table, each depicting different injuries, then detailed how Black had caused them, according to a police report about the interaction. The violence began in June 2023 and became increasingly intense before their breakup in March 2024, Johnson said, according to the police report. Over the course of a year, Black had repeatedly beaten her, including while she was seven months pregnant. Throughout the relationship, Johnson did not tell the police about the abuse, saying she wanted to protect him. Then, in March, she said he punched her so hard that he dislocated her jaw, according to the report. Afterwards, Johnson smashed the windshields of several of Blacks cars with a brick, leading Coral Springs Police to arrive at the home in response to an alarm. At the time, they wrote a report about the vandalism but did not file charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Johnson left the police department in April, the report states, officers called Bassichis requesting Maranda return to take a sworn statement. But they said Bassichis refused and advised that she had already been at the Police Department and was not returning. Bassichis told the Sun Sentinel that Johnson was hesitant to report Black in the first place and that police could have taken her sworn statement while she was already at the station. She was under the impression that police were not moving forward with the case, regardless of whether her client gave a sworn statement. A spokesperson for Coral Springs Police told the Sun Sentinel that our department did thoroughly investigate it, but at some point she refused to provide a sworn statement. We investigated everything thoroughly, all of the allegations. The case remains open, pending the sworn statement. A fight over child support Now that Johnson has left the relationship, she says, her main concern is receiving financial support for her children. But she has argued in court filings that Black has barely paid any. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time as juggling full-time care of two toddlers, Johnson has been trying to work as a real estate agent, make music and do reality TV to make more money. Black has made two child support payments, Bassichis said, but still owes two years of retroactive child support, and she had to fight to get him to agree to pay for daycare and school. The rapper makes about $1 million a month before taxes, according to Johnson, who has argued that he has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on watches, diamonds for his teeth and a private jet, but still has not bought their son any clothes. Its a lot just doing it all alone when their dad is more than capable of helping, Johnson told the Sun Sentinel. Blacks attorneys say any allegations that he has not supported his children financially are 100% false. The rapper has voluntarily agreed to pay child support and has paid for the last two terms of the childrens schooling as well as the upcoming year, Prieto said. He also paid Johnson $100,000 in January 2024, which Johnson argued was not a child support payment because the two were living together at the time and it was intended to furnish the house they shared. You could furnish the Taj Mahal for $100,000, Blacks attorney Cohen said, questioning how the money was spent, adding that Johnson just doesnt want to give up the lifestyle. Allegations of retaliation Since the custody battle began, Johnson has faced a flurry of legal actions. In April, a group of companies affiliated with Black and represented by Cohen sued Johnson over the vandalism to the cars. In May, Black sued Johnson for defamation, saying she had falsely described him as a Dead Beat Dad. And in July, prosecutors filed separate charges against Johnson for both the January birthday fight and the car vandalism, the case that led to her arrest at the courthouse on Aug. 7. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent charges stem from the victims in both cases coming forward around May of this year, according to police and prosecutors, months after the incidents initially occurred. Prosecutors received both cases from police the same month and filed the charges battery and several counts of criminal mischief two months later, according to Paula McMahon, a spokesperson for the Broward State Attorneys Office. Johnson has pleaded not guilty in both criminal cases and is seeking to halt both lawsuits, saying the parties did not properly serve her. Bassichis has also filed a motion in the vandalism lawsuit seeking to add Black as a party and counter-sue him for domestic violence and theft, saying he personally committed violent assaults and thefts upon the Defendant, who is now being sued on a retaliatory and pretextual basis through these corporate entities. A little after 5 p.m. on Aug. 6, the day before Johnsons arrest at the courthouse, Cohen emailed Bassichis, telling her that canceling a custody hearing over a motion for an order to show cause would be in Johnsons best interest. I am telling you again, its in her best interest to delay the Order to Show Cause and lets negotiate a global resolution, he wrote. I am almost pleading with you for Marandas sake. Ultimately you are going to do what you feel is right for your client, I can tell you going forward tomorrow is not it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hearing went on as scheduled. Judge Alperstein set a date for Black to be deposed and for the two to undergo mediation. Johnson was arrested after the Aug. 7 hearing concluded. Black did not attend. Johnson was released from jail late on Aug. 7 on $12,500 bond. Related Articles Concerns raised over childrens safety While Black seeks 50-50 custody, Johnson and at least one other mother have raised concerns about the childrens safety under his care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, Jammiah Broomfeld filed a motion to change their shared timesharing to primary custody. In one instance, she wrote that Black refused to return their child to her. When Broomfeld tracked his location, she found him and their 8-year-old son leaving a strip club in Pompano Beach. The Mother fears that the Father is increasingly exposing the child to the lifestyle of alcohol, drugs, sex and violence and putting the child in danger, her motion says. No action has been taken on the motion in the two years since it was filed. In Johnsons case, the rapper was ordered to have three supervised visits with the two children before he can return to unsupervised time. But he has canceled or missed all of them, Bassichis said, according to court records. In June, a guardian ad litem wrote in a report that Black had not shown up for a scheduled supervised timesharing. He then discovered that the rapper was livestreaming on Instagram and there were allegations that he was under the influence of meth. Blacks attorneys disputed the statements about the rapper missing visits with his kids or having substance abuse problems, saying there were scheduling conflicts that caused him to miss timesharing. They emphasized their desire for a resolution to all of the cases between Black and Johnson so that the two can co-parent. My client wants nothing more than to do that and co-parent with the mother and raise the children together, Prieto said. To celebrate Black Business Month, Capital B Atlanta is profiling innovative entrepreneurs during the month of August. Anthony Gee knows Black women are good for business. The CEO and founder of Koncept House, a co-working space in Castleberry Hill, launched his company because he saw an unmet need to serve small businesses in Atlanta. And now, his location in a former warehouse hosts 30 young entrepreneurs, the majority of which are Black female creators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the help of his daughter Kai Christie Gee, Koncept Houses community manager and head of marketing, Gee is redefining the co-working experience in Atlanta. The commercial real estate developer said he saw an opportunity in 2018 to create something unique by acquiring and renovating underutilized properties in developing neighborhoods. Koncept House features beautifully designed spaces tailored for these businesses, Gee told Capital B Atlanta. We focus on maker, creative, and e-commerce entrepreneurs those who require space for equipment, manufacturing, sales, or providing services. And the investment has paid off. Koncept House currently features a roster of savvy creators offering services like non-alcoholic cocktails, luxury bath and beauty products, spa services, Pilates, painting, and more. Rates for the in-demand suites range from $700 to $4,000. Our focus is on talented Black women entrepreneurs who can create significant wealth for themselves and their families. Anthony Gee, Koncept House These spaces are designed to help talented entrepreneurs, particularly Black women entrepreneurs, grow and scale their businesses, Gee said. In doing so, we also aim to provide unique and sought-after experiences and amenities for the neighborhoods and cities where we develop. Read More: Award-Winning Publisher Creates Joyful Books for Black Children The married father of three says he gets his drive partly from his mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite only having a high school education, my mother established a thriving business, acquired real estate, and invested in the stock market, Gee said. She owned one of the largest and most successful hair salons in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was one of the hardest working and most intellectually curious individuals Ive ever known. Another role model for the visionary founder, who plans to expand Koncept House around the country and ultimately create a global brand, is a Motown legend. Barry Gordy truly understood the power of Black culture and built Motown into a hit factory, consistently developing artists into stars through their unique system. At Koncept House, we aim to achieve a similar impact by identifying and nurturing entrepreneurial stars. Anthony Gee believes the key to the creation of Black wealth is found in entrepreneurship. (Ninalei Images) After previously running a venture capital fund and working on Wall Street, Gee said he believes the key to the creation of Black wealth is found in entrepreneurship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our focus is on talented Black women entrepreneurs who can create significant wealth for themselves and their families, rather than just building billion-dollar tech companies. Business owners at Koncept House not only have access to thoughtfully designed spaces, but they also have the added benefit of working in an ecosystem of like-minded individuals to bounce ideas off of and to cheer one another on. Gee himself is also available to offer expert insight on scaling their businesses. Here, Gee shares his thoughts on why Atlanta is a great place to launch a business and his plans for the future. This interview has been edited for clarity and length. Capital B Atlanta: What made you want to launch Koncept House Holdings? Anthony Gee: We launched this company because we believe the commercial real estate business is not adequately serving 95% of small businesses. Currently, small businesses needing more than a desk and chair, which are typically found in co-working spaces, have very limited options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our mission is to address this gap by providing beautifully designed spaces tailored for these businesses. We focus on maker, creative, and e-commerce entrepreneurs those who require space for equipment, manufacturing, sales, or providing services. Read More: Black Business Owners Say Road Construction Kills Sales in Southwest Koncept House hosts businesses like Camille Londons Creator Kitchen. (Ninalei Images) Where did you get the funding to launch your business? My family initially started buying residential real estate in Massachusetts on a part-time basis. We used the proceeds from those sales to move into larger, commercial acquisitions. From there, we developed the current Koncept House business model. We started small and grew, reinvesting most of the capital back into the business. What do you consider one of your major business achievements? Our goal at the beginning of the year was to help a significant number of our entrepreneurs grow from solo entrepreneurs to businesses with employees. A number of them have been able to scale to teams of three to five. In the process we have also developed strategic relationships with Georgia State and Vower to assist with workforce development. Atlanta boasts strong Black business [and] political and entrepreneurial communities. This environment fosters a belief that anything is possible, generating a palpable energy and excitement. Anthony Gee, Koncept House What has been one of your biggest challenges? Our biggest challenge has been raising capital. Our business model makes it a bit more challenging to raise institutional debt. We have had to work hard to prove out the model and show strong financials. Whats your advice to other Black entrepreneurs? The most important thing is to get started. Begin small with the resources you have, continuously improve your business, and always listen to the market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secondly, mastering social media is crucial. Its challenging to launch and maintain a business without a customer pipeline, which, in todays world, largely comes from social media. If you can generate that pipeline without incurring costs, you are well on your way to success. Anthony Gee and Kai look forward to opening the doors to their new co-working location in Capitol View. (Ninalei Images) What are some of the goals you have for the future of Koncept House Holdings? We are in the process of opening our second Koncept House location in Atlanta, in the Capitol View neighborhood. It is a historically Black neighborhood 2 miles south of Downtown, and our location is 0.1 miles from the Atlanta Beltline. Our goal is to introduce our first Koncept District that will have a commercial hub surrounded by residential development. This will allow our entrepreneurs to not only build their business but also purchase homes/condos in attractive neighborhoods that they are helping to redevelop. Why is Atlanta a great place for entrepreneurs to launch a business? Atlanta boasts strong Black business [and] political and entrepreneurial communities. This environment fosters a belief that anything is possible, generating a palpable energy and excitement. Theres also a strong desire within these communities to support one another, solidifying Atlantas reputation as the Black capital. Click here to read more about Atlantas game-changing entrepreneurs and learn their secrets to success. The post This Atlanta Co-Working Space Helps Black Women Entrepreneurs Scale and Succeed appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta. A variety of kratom and 7-OH products including capsules, cartridges and wellness shots are on display at a smoke shop in Buffalo, N.Y. States have led the way in regulating kratom, and now federal officials want to ban 7-OH, a powerful compound found in some kratom products. (Photo by Amanda Hernandez/Stateline) For years, state lawmakers have taken the lead on regulating kratom the controversial herbal supplement used for pain relief, anxiety and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Some states have banned it entirely. Others have passed laws requiring age limits, labeling and lab testing. At least half of the states and the District of Columbia have enacted some form of regulation on kratom or its components building a patchwork of policies around a product largely unaddressed by the federal government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that may soon change. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is pushing to ban 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH a powerful compound found in small amounts in kratom and sometimes concentrated or synthesized in products sold online, at smoke shops or behind gas station counters. Federal health officials announced last month that the compound poses serious public health risks and should be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, alongside heroin and LSD. The move marks a significant shift in how federal regulators are approaching kratom, which they attempted to ban in 2016. It also has sparked debate about how the change could impact the growing 7-OH industry and its consumers. This year, at least seven states have considered bills to tighten kratom regulations, including proposals for bans, age restrictions and labeling requirements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kratom has been illegal in Indiana since 2014, but Hoosier lawmakers have recently filed legislation to reverse that. In 2023 the bill narrowly passed the House 53-40 but never received a hearing in the Senate. Legislation did not move earlier this year. Kratom, which originates from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia, can have a wide range of mental and bodily effects, according to federal officials, addiction medicine specialists and kratom researchers. Reports of fatal kratom overdoses have surfaced in recent years, though kratom is often taken in combination with other substances. Kratom and 7-OH are distinct products with separate markets, but they are closely connected. 7-OH is a semi-synthetic compound derived from kratom and only emerged on the market in late 2023, while kratom itself has been available for decades. This is a public health crisis waiting to happen. Christopher R. McCurdy, professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Florida Leading kratom researchers also say more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of using both substances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres much we dont know, unfortunately, on all sides, said Christopher R. McCurdy, a professor of medicinal chemistry at the University of Florida. McCurdy is a trained pharmacist and has studied kratom for more than 20 years. Research suggests kratom may help with opioid withdrawal and doesnt seem to cause severe withdrawal on its own. Smaller amounts seem to act as a stimulant, while larger doses may have sedative, opioidlike effects. Very little is known about the risks of long-term use in humans, according to McCurdy. As for 7-OH, it shows potential for treating pain, but it hasnt been studied in humans, and it may carry a high risk of addiction. Researchers dont yet understand how much is safe to take or how often it should be used, McCurdy told Stateline. While some leading kratom experts agree that kratom and 7-OH should be regulated, they caution that placing 7-OH under a strict Schedule I classification would make it much harder to study and argue it should instead be classified as Schedule II like some other opioids. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A federal survey from 2023 estimated that about 1.6 million Americans age 12 and older used kratom in the year before the study. The American Kratom Association, a national industry lobbying group, estimated in 2021 that between 11 million and 16 million Americans safely consume kratom products each year. Since gaining popularity in recent years, 7-OH has appeared in a growing number of products. Some researchers and addiction medicine specialists say many consumers, especially those new to kratom, sometimes dont understand the difference between products. Its a pure opioid thats available without a prescription, so its akin to having morphine or oxycodone for sale at a smoke shop or a gas station, McCurdy said. This is a public health crisis waiting to happen. Federal crackdown targets 7-OH, not kratom In late July, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended that the federal Drug Enforcement Administration place 7-OH in Schedule I, citing a high potential for abuse. The classification would not apply to kratom leaves or powders with naturally occurring 7-OH. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were not targeting the kratom leaf or ground-up kratom, FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said at a news conference. We are targeting a concentrated synthetic byproduct that is an opioid. Makary acknowledged that there isnt enough research or data to fully understand how widespread 7-OHs use or impact may be. Still, he said the Trump administration wants to be aggressive and proactive in addressing the issue before it grows into a larger public health problem. While only small amounts of 7-OH occur naturally in the kratom plant, federal officials have raised concerns about U.S. products containing synthetic or concentrated forms of the compound because its more potent than morphine and primarily responsible for kratoms opioidlike effects. The FDAs recommendation to schedule 7-OH will now go to the DEA, which oversees the final steps of the process including issuing a formal proposal and opening a public comment period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If finalized, the rule could affect both companies selling enhanced kratom products and consumers in states where those products are currently legal. The DEA backed off scheduling kratom compounds in 2016 after widespread public opposition. Kirsten Smith, an assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Johns Hopkins University who is studying kratoms effects in humans, said she was surprised by the FDAs push to schedule 7-OH. We dont really have a public health signal of a lot of adverse events for either kratom or for 7-OH at this time, she told Stateline. I was, frankly, always surprised that kratom was pushed toward scheduling at an earlier time point. I dont know that we have data to support scheduling even now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, some advocacy groups, including the Holistic Alternative Recovery Trust, argue the push to schedule 7-OH is driven more by corporate interests than public health, suggesting the kratom industry is trying to sideline competition from 7-OH products. We think that this is just happening because of the legacy kratom manufacturers losing market share and wanting to gin up a crisis with this, said Jeff Smith, the national policy director for the group, who said he has used 7-OH for sleep and pain management. While his organization supports regulation and safe consumption, members worry the federal governments move could drive people to riskier substances or push the market underground. Its made a profound difference in my life, Smith said. We think it would be tragic to cut it off based on such a paucity of data when theres so much potential for this product to help people. Public health concerns Federal health officials say a key concern is the growing use of kratom and 7-OH products among teens and young adults. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some officials and addiction medicine specialists have pointed out that these products often come in flavors and packaging designed to appeal to younger buyers, with few controls over where or how theyre sold. In some states without clear regulations, kratom and 7-OH products are available at gas stations or online, sometimes without any age verification. Need to get in touch? Have a news tip? CONTACT US Whenever you go into a gas station and even though its behind the glass, its kind of eye level, and it has all of these bright colors it has all of these things that really attract the visual of a kiddo, said Socorro Green, a prevention specialist with Youth180, a nonprofit focused on youth substance use prevention in Dallas. Green added that kratom and 7-OH products may be even more accessible to young people in rural communities, where gas stations and convenience stores are often among the few available retailers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some researchers and experts say that certain products may not clearly or accurately disclose their 7-OH content and are sometimes marketed or mistaken for traditional kratom. Some cities, counties and states have responded by banning kratom or raising the minimum purchase age to 18 or 21. But in many areas, enforcement remains inconsistent, and some addiction specialists say clearer federal and state guidance is needed especially as more people are using kratom and 7-OH to manage pain, anxiety or withdrawal symptoms on their own. There needs to be some kind of oversight, including some way of maybe helping to ensure that people know what theyre getting, said Terrence Walton, the executive director and chief executive officer of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. State regulations At least seven states have considered or enacted legislation this year related to kratom ranging from age restrictions and labeling requirements to outright bans. In New York, lawmakers passed two bills: one requiring warning labels and prohibiting kratom products from being labeled as all natural, and another raising the minimum purchase age to 21. Neither has been sent to the governor. In Colorado, a new measure, which was signed into law in May, prohibits kratom from being sold in forms that resemble candy or appeal to children, increases labeling requirements, limits concentrations of 7-OH, and bans the manufacture and distribution of synthetic or semi-synthetic kratom. In Mississippi, a new law that took effect in July raised the minimum purchase age for kratom to 21. It also bans synthetic kratom extracts and products with high concentrations of 7-OH. Lawmakers in Montana and Texas introduced similar legislation this year, but neither proposal advanced. Louisiana is the latest state to enact a kratom ban, which took effect Aug. 1. Meanwhile, in July, Rhode Island became the first state to reverse its ban. The new law establishes a regulatory framework for the manufacturing, sale and distribution of kratom products, set to take effect in April 2026. As of this year, Washington, D.C., and seven states Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Rhode Island (until April 2026), Vermont and Wisconsin have banned kratom. At least half of U.S. states now regulate kratom or its components in some way. 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. No joint statement is planned after the summit between Russian leader Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday. "No, nothing is to be expected, nothing has been prepared, and it is unlikely that there will be any document," Peskov told the Russian news agency Interfax. "Given that there will be a joint press conference, the president will of course outline the scope of the agreements and arrangements that can be reached," he added, speaking ahead of Friday's summit in the US state of Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peskov said it would be a mistake to try to anticipate the outcome of the meeting at this stage. He added that the summit had been prepared at very short notice. He later told Russian state television that Trump has an extremely unusual approach to the most difficult issues something, he said, that is highly appreciated in Moscow and by Putin personally. Ukraine's point of view should be taken into account "in subsequent stages," Peskov said. "At present, this is a Russian-US meeting at the highest level." Earlier on Thursday, Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said that the summit would focus primarily on a peaceful solution to the Ukraine conflict, but also on bilateral relations. The meeting at an air base near the city of Anchorage is the first between the two leaders since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Trump hopes to achieve an end to the war, although Putin has so far shown no signs of backing down. Yuri Ushakov, Russian leader Vladimir Putins foreign policy advisor, has reported that a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin is scheduled for 11:30 on 15 August (22:30 Kyiv time). Five other Russian representatives will fly to the US with Putin. Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency RIA Novosti Quote from Ushakov: "The Trump-Putin meeting will begin in Anchorage, Alaska, at 11:30, local time. The central topic of the meeting between Putin and Trump will be the settlement of the Ukrainian crisis [as the Russians call the war they have unleashed against Ukraine ed.]" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: Putins foreign policy advisor added that preparations for the meeting are at their final stage and that the programme has been agreed upon. Ushakov said that Trump and Putin will first hold a one-on-one meeting, followed by one with delegation participation. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Kirill Dmitriev, Head of the Direct Investment Fund, and Ushakov will join the Kremlin leader in the US. Ushakov said that Putin and Trump will hold a joint press conference following the talks. Background: On 15 August, Trump and Putin will hold a meeting at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage in Alaska. The White House said that the initiative to hold a meeting between Trump and Putin during Special Envoy Steve Witkoff's 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 exploratory 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". Later, The Telegraph reported that Trump was planning to propose a series of economic incentives during his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on 15 August, particularly access to Alaska's natural resources and the partial lifting of sanctions on Russia's aircraft industry, in exchange for ending the war against Ukraine. Trump told European leaders that he will not discuss Ukraine's territories and will insist on an unconditional ceasefire during his meeting with Putin on 15 August. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Kremlin on Thursday confirmed the timeline for the highly anticipated meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump in Alaska, with talks set to start at around 11:30 am (1930 GMT) on Friday. Russia's war against Ukraine will top the agenda, Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. Trump and Putin are set to hold a joint press conference following the consultations, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides Ushakov, the high-level Russian delegation will include Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Andrey Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov and Kirill Dmitriev, the Kremlin's chief US negotiator. Trump and Putin are set to meet at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base in Anchorage, Alaska's biggest city, in what will be their first in-person meeting since Trump took office in January and since Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his European allies will be nervously awaiting the outcome of the meeting, amid fears that the talks could lead to an agreement over territorial concessions to Russia that Kiev has firmly rejected. Russia is hitting up to 110% of its recruitment goals every month, a top Ukrainian official said. The deputy head of GUR said the Kremlin is considering increasing its target by 17% this year. Russian recruits enjoy large sign-up bonuses and perks for their families in the war. The Kremlin's military recruitment is doing so well this year that it may increase its annual target again, said the deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence. "In general, the Russian Federation's recruitment plans are being fulfilled by at least 105 to 110% each month," said Maj. Gen. Vadym Skibitsky, in an interview with Ukrainian news outlet Suspilne that was published on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Skibitsky said Russia has likely recruited two-thirds of the 343,000 new soldiers it aims to field in 2025, putting it on track to hit its annual goal. Russia's expanded military recruitment, buoyed by large sign-up bonuses and other perks for families of injured or killed soldiers, has been a driving force for Moscow's ability to sustain its war in Ukraine. Sign-up bonuses vary depending on the region in Russia, with local governments in areas such as Moscow and St. Petersburg offering higher payouts. The baseline bonus is set at 400,000 rubles, according to a decree signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the summer of 2024. "For an average citizen of the Russian Federation, a simple worker, this is a lot of money. In the case of the first contract, we are talking about an average of 1.5-2 million Russian rubles," Skibitsky said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 million rubles is worth roughly $25,000. Russia's federal statistics service said in its latest update that the average wage in the country was about $1,200 a month in February. Skibitsky said the accelerated recruitment rate means Russia can send up to 35,000 fresh troops a month to the front critical to the Kremlin's strategy of repeatedly launching costly ground assaults that wear down Ukrainian defenses. Ukraine also has intelligence that the Kremlin plans to follow up on its success this year by increasing recruitment goals by 15 to 17%, Skibitsky added. "But we do not yet have confirmation whether this decision has come into effect," the spy chief said, without providing further detail about the intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His latest comments come after Ukrainian intelligence said in March that Russia had pushed its recruitment goal for 2024 from 380,000 troops to 430,000. The Kremlin's recruitment drive has also been buttressed by changes in Russia's legal system that allow prisoners or people with charges filed against them to avoid trial by joining the military. Skibitsky said that about 25% of Russia's new recruits are those who committed crimes or are under investigation. Moscow spent an estimated $25.68 billion on salaries, bonuses, and perks for war personnel in the first half of 2025, according to an analysis in July by Re:Russia, an analytics platform run by exiled Russian academics. The country is expected to spend 6.3% of its GDP on defense this year, a record high since the Soviet Union fell in 1991. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kremlin's recruitment is so extensive that the sheer number of people joining the military industry has reportedly driven up labor costs for civilian industries, particularly in service sectors. On the other hand, Kyiv has struggled for years to replenish and maintain its troop numbers on the front lines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Tuesday that Russian forces outnumber his country's soldiers by three to one. Read the original article on Business Insider Kennesaw State Universitys economic impact on metro Atlanta rose to over $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2024, according to a report released by the University System of Georgia. The university said it marked a 7.1% increase from the previous years impact of $2.15 billion. KSU said the report highlights the significant role KSU plays in the local economy, contributing through education-related spending and community expenditures. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Kennesaw State has long been a key contributor to the economic prosperity of our region and the state of Georgia, KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig said in a statement. As we expand our reach and serve more students, families, and communities, we remain committed to growing KSUs impact and proudly embrace our role as a vital economic driver across the state. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The economic impact includes more than $1.4 billion in education-related spending by students and $892 million in spending by the institution, employees, and students in the community, such as at restaurants and retail stores. Kennesaw States activities supported 16,621 jobs in FY 2024, including 4,373 jobs on campus and 12,248 jobs off campus in either the private or public sectors. The study found that, for each job created by KSU on its campus, another 2.8 jobs were created in the local community. In addition to the economic impact study, the University System of Georgia released a companion study indicating that bachelors degree graduates from Georgias public colleges and universities will earn $1.4 million more during their lifetimes than they would without a degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A degree from one of USGs 26 public colleges and universities is a million-dollar deal for graduates and a billion-dollar boost for Georgia, USG Chancellor Sonny Perdue said in a report on the overall systems economic impacts. Students see real returns through higher earnings and better opportunities. Meanwhile, our institutions power Georgias economy and help local communities thrive. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) KTEP Public Media, El Pasos public radio station located at The University of Texas at El Paso, is calling on both loyal listeners and the greater El Paso community to help contribute to an emergency fundraising drive that the station will hold this weekend. The fund drive will be held via 88.5 FM on Friday, Aug. 14, from 6 p.m. to midnight, and on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 11 a.m. to midnight. The drive will include freeform music, new show previews, and community connection opportunities. Anchor programs, such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered, will continue uninterrupted during the drive, according to KTEP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement KTEPs goal is to raise $50,000 to help pay for its National Public Radio programming for fiscal year 2026, which theyre at risk of having to cut following the decision of President Donald Trumps Administration to eliminate funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Some people start their day off listening to Morning Edition and end their day listening to All Things Considered or Performance Today. Those programs most certainly are in danger of being lost, said John Carrillo, the general manager for KTEP. Were a public radio station. We are the NPR affiliate here in El Paso. John Carrillo, General Manager for KTEP Public Media Carrillo said KTEPs NPR programming was funded through a federal grant provided by CPB, which has since been eliminated with the passage of the Recissions Act of 2025, requested by Trump. Never in any of my wildest nightmares did I ever think that we would lose funding from the federal government? Carrillo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carrillo said they would have received the grant this fall to fund the stations programming and other costs through FY 2026. He said the grant amounted to about $205,000 and made up 20 percent of the stations operating budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Carrillo said their immediate focus is to make up funds to pay for their NPR licensing and programming, which costs about $60,000 to fund. The most pressing thing for me as a station manager is that we make up the funding for NPR, Carrillo said. People can support the station by visiting KTEP.org or givingto.utep.edu/KTEP. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Editor's Note: This item has been updated with additional details. Ukraine has secured the return of 84 soldiers and civilians from Russian captivity in a new prisoner swap with Moscow, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Aug. 14. The news follows a series of exchanges carried out in the past months, which had been agreed upon during talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul between May and July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Among the civilians released today are those who had been held by the Russians since 2014, 2016, and 2017," Zelensky said. "Among the military (personnel) released today are the defenders of Mariupol." Almost all of the newly released require medical care and rehabilitation, he added. Thirty-three military service members and 51 civilians were freed in the latest exchange, Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War (POW) said. They include those captured before the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 and sentenced to prison sentences of up to 18 years. One of the freed Ukrainians spent 4,013 days in Russian captivity, according to the Coordination Headquarters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's Defense Ministry also confirmed the swap, saying that 84 Russian service members were exchanged for 84 Ukrainians. Among them are three women from the Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and a man who was imprisoned in 2016 at the age of 18. The youngest released person is 26 years old, while the oldest is 74. Russia has occupied parts of the eastern Donbas region and Crimea since 2014, subjecting their population to political repression and widespread human rights abuses. As part of the exchange, Volodymyr Cherkas and Vitalii Atamanchuk were returned to Ukraine, their relatives told the Kyiv Independent. Both men were accused by Russia of allegedly spying for Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cherkas, 65, was illegally detained in 2017 in Russian-occupied Donetsk. In the summer of 2024, just as he was about to be released, he was seized by two men in masks and taken away. Since then, his family had no information about his whereabouts. His wife and five children, three of them minors, had been waiting for the man at home. Atamanchuk, 74, became the oldest person in the swap. He was also illegally arrested in 2018 in Donetsk. His wife and son had been taken with him but were later released. Despite his age and poor health, Atamanchuk remained in captivity. Russian-installed authorities sentenced Atamanchuk to 2035. His daughter, Olena, told the Kyiv Independent that her father could not even walk on his own in prison due to illness. His wife, Nadiia, had been waiting for him throughout his years in captivity. The exchange takes place a day before a high-stakes summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, part of Washington's efforts to end the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ukraine-Russia peace talks earlier this year have failed to achieve a breakthrough in ending the hostilities, but concluded with new agreements on prisoner swaps. Zelensky announced earlier this month that Ukraine and Russia are preparing to exchange 1,200 POWs in accordance with the third round of peace talks in Istanbul on July 23. The president also said late in July that Kyiv has secured the release of over 6,400 Ukrainians from Russian captivity since 2022, of whom 5,857 were freed during prisoner exchanges. Read also: Ukrainian forces receive 1,000 FPV drones in first rapid deliveries via pilot weapons marketplace Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda has said that the countries of the coalition of the willing military allies supporting Ukraine must be prepared for the deployment of troops in Ukraine. Source: Lithuanian public broadcaster LRT, as reported by European Pravda Details: Nauseda took part in a meeting of 31 countries supporting Ukraine, which took place online on Wednesday and was dedicated to discussing the upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We must be ready to deploy troops to ensure security in Ukraine," the Lithuanian president said. Nauseda noted that Lithuania is ready to provide troops and military training facilities for the joint forces of the allies. He also said that the issue of peace in Ukraine cannot be resolved without Kyiv and stressed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must participate in future meetings on a peaceful settlement. In addition, Nauseda said that Kyiv cannot be forced to give up territory. Background: Notably, after the coalition meeting, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that it demonstrated a high level of unity. At the beginning of the meeting, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer shared his assessment that there is a chance to end the Russian-Ukrainian war thanks to Trumps efforts. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! The Southern California spiny lobster season closed in March, so wildlife officers were beyond suspicious on the night of Aug. 1, when they observed four individuals repeatedly diving and returning to shore in Los Angeles County. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife officers, who had been on patrol, watched the divers "actively taking spiny lobsters" for nearly four hours before initiating contact near Royal Palms Beach in San Pedro. The individuals, who attempted to flee, were caught with 236 spiny lobsters in the back of their truck. Most of the lobsters were undersized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ALSO: Yellowstone tourist faced with tough choice during extremely close bison encounter The CDFW stated in a news release that the individuals did not have fishing licenses or tools for measuring lobsters requirements during open season from early October through mid-March. Illegal lobster haul. If there's a silver lining to this attempt to plunder a valued resource, the lobsters were alive and returned to the ocean after a quick count and photographs for evidence. The divers were cited for several misdemeanor violations, including taking lobster out of season, possession of undersized lobster, commercialization without a license, and fishing without a license. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bust was announced Wednesday via Facebook. Comments reflected anger directed toward the poachers, but also the state for charges that did not seem harsh enough. A sampling: Curious as to why the take of 236 spiny lobster out of season, 210 of which were undersized, is a misdemeanor and not a felony? Also, Im wondering if there was any investigation into whether or not they had a black market buyer? Only cited? With over 250 lobsters caught illegally and multiple violations they couldve been at least booked for a night! Needs to be a felony at this level. Sure it's one thing if someone takes a few or doesn't know the regulations, but this is an organization to deal with all that volume. This article originally appeared on For The Win: Los Angeles divers nabbed with massive illegal lobster haul. L.A. County prosecutors tried to force City Councilman Curren Price's wife to testify before a grand jury and served subpoenas on several members of his City Hall staff earlier this year, three sources told The Times. The grand jury was convened in March, according to three sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity because grand jury proceedings are secret under California law. Price's attorney, Michael Schafler, also confirmed the existence of a grand jury proceeding in a new court filing on Thursday. The convening of a grand jury, coupled with news that prosecutors filed additional charges against Price earlier this week, marks a significant uptick in the district attorney's office's focus on the veteran councilman. Price was first charged in 2023 after voting in favor of multiple measures that prosecutors allege would financially benefit his wife, real estate consultant Del Richardson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents made public Thursday also show the district attorney's office considered Richardson a "suspect" in the criminal investigation into her husband as recently as 2022. The councilman has denied all wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty. Richardson ultimately did not testify before the grand jury, though it was not clear why, according to two of the sources. No criminal charges were filed against Richardson. The district attorney's office did not immediately respond to questions about that decision Thursday. "I would not expect Del Richardson to be charged because she has done nothing wrong," said Richardson's attorney, Adam Kamenstein. "She is also completely confident that her husband, Councilman Price, will soon be fully vindicated, and she looks forward to being able to put this matter behind them." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Price now faces 12 criminal counts in total accusing him of grand theft by embezzlement, perjury and violating state conflict of interest laws. Prosecutors allege Price repeatedly voted in favor of measures to sell buildings or support grants for developers or agencies that had previously contracted with his wife's consulting firm, Del Richardson & Associates. Price has also been accused of bilking the city out of $33,000 in medical premiums by listing his wife as a beneficiary of his city-issued healthcare plan between 2013 and 2017, before they were legally married. In documents made public Thursday morning, a summary of the district attorney's office's investigation written in 2022 described Richardson as a "suspect" in the case. An investigator wrote that Richardson committed perjury and aided and abetted in Price's alleged embezzlement by seeking to recoup healthcare costs from the city of Inglewood, where Price formerly served as a councilman, between 2015 and 2017, according to the summary document. Price and Richardson were not legally married at the time as Price did not divorce his first wife until 2018, prosecutors allege. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors served subpoenas on several members of Price's City Hall staff and several former employees of Del Richardson & Associates, which Richardson sold to the Greenwood Seneca Foundation several years ago, the sources said. The purpose of the grand jury was also unclear, as two of the sources said questions asked by prosecutors were not focused on the charges already filed against Price. In a motion seeking to dismiss all charges filed Thursday morning, Schafler questioned the legality of the grand jury proceedings. Schafler said the grand jury hearings "appear to impermissibly have been for the primary purpose of discovery and preparing for the preliminary hearing and trial in this action, which had already been pending since June 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grand juries are held in secret and transcripts of such proceedings only become public if an indictment is returned against the target of the hearing. Price has not been indicted. The district attorney's office said it could not comment on grand jury proceedings without court authorization. "The Grand Jury process involves two types of Grand Juries: Investigative and Indicting. An Investigative Grand Jury investigates and does not seek an Indictment," the office said in a statement. It was not clear which type of grand jury was convened in Price's case. It is rare for prosecutors to fail to convince a grand jury to return an indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a motion seeking to dismiss charges in 2023, Price's attorney argued prosecutors could not prove that past payments to Richardson's company had any influence on the councilman's voting record. Many of the votes that prosecutors zeroed in on passed easily, with Price's vote making no difference to their success or failure. Under California law, criminal cases can proceed from the filing of charges to a trial by two pathways. More often than not, defendants face a preliminary hearing where a judge must decide if prosecutors have enough evidence to prove there is probable cause for a defendant to stand trial. Prosecutors can also seek an indictment before a grand jury, a move that limits what counterarguments defense attorneys can put forth and protects witnesses from cross-examination. In recent years, L.A. County prosecutors have convened grand juries to indict disgraced porn star Ron Jeremy on a litany of rape allegations and to review manslaughter charges against Torrance police officers. Price appeared in court on Thursday morning to answer the two new charges filed against him earlier this week. On Tuesday, Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. Nathan Hochman said that between 2019 and 2021, Price voted in support of grants and funding for L.A. Metro and the city's housing authority after Richardson's firm was paid more than $800,000 combined by both agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joined by about two dozen supporters who sat in the back rows of the courtroom, Price pleaded not guilty to the new charges. His attorney said he would file a motion to dismiss those charges later on Thursday. Prosecutors said the councilman's staff "flagged the conflict of interest prior to the votes" that prompted the new charges. Price's spokeswoman, Angelina Valencia, did not respond directly to that allegation. But she said the councilman's office has always "carried out a multi-layered process to identify and address potential conflicts of interests, work that is highly complex and requires thorough review." "Each month, our legislative team reviews hundreds of Council and Committee votes, cross-checking for potential conflicts," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schafler has repeatedly argued that Price did not knowingly violate conflict of interest laws. 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. On a wide, empty stretch of Venice Beach in 1980, seven Los Angeles architects Frank Gehry, Thom Mayne, Eric Owen Moss, Coy Howard, Craig Hodgetts, Robert Mangurian and Frederick Fisher gathered for a group portrait by photographer Ave Pildas. Clad in mismatched outfits and standing casually in the sand, they looked more like a rumpled rock band than the future of American architecture. The resulting image, published in Interiors magazine, distilled a seismic moment in L.A.s creative history. Those seven, gazing in their own directions yet joined in a sense of mischievous rebellion and cocky exuberance, represented a new generation that was bringing a brash, loose creativity to their work and starting to distance itself from the buttoned-up codes and expectations of the architecture establishment. Each would go on to have a successful career, from Pritzker Architecture Prize winners to directors of architecture schools. And they and their compatriots would, for a while at least, help put a rapidly changing L.A. at the center of the built culture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That one photograph contains a whole world, notes filmmaker Russell Brown, who recently directed a 12-part documentary series about that Venice architecture scene. There was risk going on, and freedom; it was all about ideas. Its become a kind of reference point, adds architectural journalist Frances Anderton, host of the series. It just keeps reappearing whenever theres a conversation about that period. The 1980 image is the jumping-off point for "Rebel Architects: From Venice to the World Stage," produced by Browns nonprofit, Friends of Residential Treasures: Los Angeles. Four of the architects now in their 70s and 80s gathered for a (far less brash) new photo and an honest conversation about their early careers in L.A., and whats transpired since for the series, which began streaming monthly on FORT: LAs website July 1. A native Angeleno with a background in feature and documentary filmmaking, Brown conceived of the concept after a chat with architect Robert Thibodeau, co-founder of Venice-based DU Architects. After a deeper dive into the image with Anderton, the idea for a reunion was born. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We thought, why don't we restage the photo and then use that as an excuse to get the guys together? Brown explains. He preferred a spontaneous, lighthearted group discussion to the typical documentary, with its one-on-one interviews and heavy production. Its about the chemistry between creative peers, says Brown. The real legacy of these architects isnt just in the buildings. Its in the conversations they started and are still having. He added: Theres a spark that happens when theyre together ... They talk about failure, competition, teaching, aging. Its a very human exchange. Episode 1, titled "Capturing a Moment in L.A. Architecture," opens with four of the surviving architects Fisher, Mayne, Moss and Hodgetts recreating that seminal photograph for Pildas and sitting down for an interview. (Howard was interviewed separately, Gehry declined and Mangurian died in 2023.) The group dissects the photos cinematic, informal composition, in which Pildas aims down from a berm, the neglected buildings behind the eclectic crew shrinking into the horizon, merging with the sand. And they remember a time in which the citys messy urban forms and perceived cultural inferiority provided endless creative fuel, and liberation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pildas recalls how the original shoot came together at the request of British design editor Beverly Russell, who was looking to capture Frank Gehry and some of his Turks. (The international design press was gaga for L.A. at the time. Anderton notes that her move from the U.K. resulted from a similar assignment, on the subversive architects of the West Coast, for the publication Architectural Review in 1987.) At the time, most of the architects were working in garages and warehouses, forming their studios and collaborating with equally norm-busting and (relatively) unheralded artists in the scrappy, dangerous, forgotten, yet exploding Venice scene. In a later episode, the architects start listing the art talents they would run into, or befriend, including Larry Bell, James Turrell, Ed Ruscha, Fred Eversley, Robert Irwin, Robert Rauschenberg and Jean-Michel Basquiat, to name a few. Basquiat was then living and working in Hodgetts building. It was a spectacular fusion of all this creative energy, Hodgetts remembers. There was no audience, there were no guardrails, and one did not feel constrained. He adds, later: We all felt like we were marooned on a desert island. Pildas, who had studied architecture before switching to design and, eventually, photography, was uniquely suited to capture the group. He had shot some of the small, quirky experiments of Mangurian and Mayne, and knew most of the others through social and professional circles. (He even knew Hodgetts from high school back in Cincinnati.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first attempt at the photo seemed stiff, says Pildas, so he took out a joint, which all except Hodgetts accepted, he says. The icebreaker worked. In a later image, says Pildas, Fisher is hugging Gehrys leg, the others huddled around. It got pretty friendly in the end, he jokes. Pildas argues that the photo is much more layered with meaning (not to mention nostalgia) now than it was at the time. Back then, it was just another magazine shoot. Now, its history, he says. Adds Moss: Its relevancy, or not, is confirmed by the following years. Otherwise its gone. Each episode explores the images layers, and the unfolding stories that followed the challenges of maintaining originality; crucial role of journalists in promoting their work; maddening disconnect between L.A.s talent and its clients, along with the mercurial, ever-evolving identity of Los Angeles. The tone, like the photo, is unpretentious and playful, heavy on character and story, not theory. This was not always an easy task with a group that can get esoteric quite quickly, adds Anderton. I was trying to keep it light, she laughs. I don't think I even have the ability to talk in the language of the academy. Theyre cracking jokes, interrupting each other, reminiscing about teaching gigs and design arguments, says Brown. Theres real affection, but also a sense of rivalry that never fully went away. Hodgetts doesnt see it that way, however. It was really about the joy of creating things. We wanted to jam a bit, perform together; thats really life-affirming, he says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are some revealing moments. Mayne, whose firm Morphosis is known for bold, city-altering buildings such as Caltrans HQ in downtown L.A., reflects on teaching as a way of being the father I never had. (His father left his family when he was a young boy.) He tenderly discusses the seminal role that his wife Blythe a co-owner of Morphosis has played in his career. Fisher reveals that Gehry was the chief reason he dropped everything to come out to L.A. (At the time, he was working as a display designer at a department store in Cincinnati.) I remember seeing this architect jumping up and down on cardboard furniture. I could see there was something going on here. Something percolating, he says. Moss opens up about his struggles to negotiate the demands of the practical world, while Hodgetts performs brilliant critiques of the others work, sometimes to broad smiles, others to cringes. Notably absent from the reunion is Gehry himself, who is now 96. Hes at a point in his life where trudging through sand for a photo wasnt going to happen, says Brown. But his presence is everywhere. Hes still the elephant in the room. One episode explores how Gehry, about a decade older than the others, both profoundly influenced and often overshadowed the group a reality that was perhaps reinforced by his nonchalant dominance in the photo itself. Frank takes up a lot of oxygen, Mayne quips. Still, all admire Gehrys unwillingness to compromise creatively, despite often heavy criticism. Another prevailing theme is the bittersweet loss of that early sense of freedom, and the Venice of the 1970s, with its breathtakingly low rents and abandoned charm. Todays architects wherever they are face higher stakes, infinitely higher costs and tighter regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Venice we grew up with is completely gone, says Fisher. But maybe its just moved, noted Moss. Distinguishing L.A. as a place whose energy and attention is constantly shifting, he wonders if creative ferment might now be happening in faraway places like Tehachapi wherever land is cheap and ambition is high, he says. While Pildas was capturing the seven architects 45 years ago, he was also busy chronicling the citys street culture jazz clubs, boulevard eccentrics, decaying movie palaces and bohemian artists. All were featured in the 2023 documentary "Aves America" (streaming on Prime Video) directed by his former student, Patrick Taulere, exploring his six decades of humbly perceptive, deeply human work. After reviewing the recreation of the photo the architects are still smiling this time, but their scrappy overconfidence feels eons away Pildas wonders who the next generation will be, and how they will rise. Maybe it'll happen that they'll have another picture someday with a bunch of new architects, right? he says. This is a fertile ground for architecture anyway, and always has been. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exposing that fertile ground to Angelenos of all kinds is FORT: LAs overarching goal. Founded in 2020, it offers architecture trails, fellowships and a surprising variety of programming, from design competitions to architecture-themed wine tastings. All, says Brown, is delivered, like "Rebel Architects," with a sense of accessible joy and exploration an especially useful gift in a turbulent, insecure time for the city. Suddenly, you kind of think about the city in a different way and feel it in a different way, says Brown. This is a place that allows this kind of vision to come to life. Get notified when the biggest stories in Hollywood, culture and entertainment go live. Sign up for L.A. Times entertainment alerts. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The first day of school in Los Angeles unfolded as no other with safety zones set up around campuses to protect students and their immigrant families from agents of the federal government. Despite ongoing concerns, educators made sure back-to-school welcomes were especially festive as yearly rituals unfolded across the nation's second-largest school district: Balloons at the schoolhouse entrance, crying 5-year-olds with nearly crying parents and teenagers who appear too cool for school but were thrilled to see friends and eager to meet their teachers. At 24th Street Elementary, southwest of downtown, children entered to cheers from staff gathered out front. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The warm welcome and the volunteer patrols tamped down the anxiety of Paola and Andrea, each of whom dropped off a third-grader. They were happy to be able to take their children to their first day, despite the fear they felt as immigrants without legal status to remain in the country. Neither family had spent much time outside their homes since June, when immigration enforcement surged, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents sweeping into public places to detain workers and others in the vicinity. But the two 24th Street moms are persuaded that the L.A. Unified School District is taking extensive precautions to minimize risk. They told me that the children, while theyre here inside, are safe, said Paola, who asked that she not be fully identified because of safety concerns. Djanai Johnson hugs her transitional kindergartner, Shaylee Robinson, as they arrive for the first day of instruction at 24th Street Elementary School. (Al Seib / For The Times) Heightened fears Fears were heightened Monday when federal agents reportedly drew their guns on and handcuffed a 15-year-old boy with disabilities outside Arleta High School in a case of mistaken identity. Federal officials said they were looking to apprehend a suspected MS-13 gang member and instead nabbed the person's cousin. Federal authorities said they apprehended the actual suspect later in the day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They've also said no place is off limits including schools as they press to reach President Trump's goal of 1 million deportations per year. Read more: Los Angeles public schools to open with unprecedented protections for immigrant children Campus patrols Ron Gochez, a history teacher at Maya Angelou Community High School and a member of Union del Barrio, looks at cars lining up to drop students off during an ICE patrol on the first day of school near the campus. (Carlin Stiehl / Los Angeles Times) At Maya Angelou Community High School in South Park, as students filed in lugging full backpacks, volunteers circled the perimeter of campus in their own cars, affixed with red and black stickers that read: Protecting Communities From Ice and Police Terror. History teacher Ron Gochez wore a red shirt with the words All Power to the Teachers, and surveilled the sidewalk and streets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He would soon need to teach but his attention before and after school would be on making sure students were secure, Gochez said. People are already patrolling in their cars. Teachers are gonna be showing up and patrolling on foot around the school, Gochez said. For us at the high school, it means being vigilant. If we were to see anything, wed contact not just our school, but other schools in our immediate neighborhood. Other educators at Maya Angelou also have signed on. "Ill do it for the students, said history teacher Ricardo Lopez. We gotta find a way to resist, to actually make change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fifteen other faculty members posted themselves in front of the school holding signs signaling support and encouragement: Everyone Is Welcome Here" and This Is a Safe Space for Immigrants. Students entered via a red carpet. The atmosphere was working for Bonnie and Haley, two juniors. I feel pretty safe, Bonnie said. Were not super worried. Students joined up with friends to make up for missed time during the summer. Wearing carefully selected first-day outfits, they hugged in reunion and coordinated meetups after school while the safety patrol kept watch. Tiers of school protection Community organizations and teachers rally outside for immigrant rights on the first day of school at Maya Angelou Community High School. (Carlin Stiehl / Los Angeles Times) Thursday's first day of school featured three tiers of protection. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School district-organized efforts established a watch zone around at least 100 schools thought to be at highest risk because of their large Latino populations. These include schools where older Latino students walk to school without their parents, said L.A. schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho. The teachers union has organized a second tier of faculty observers ideally at least five to seven per school to watch for immigration enforcement activity and alert a network of participants if they see it. The teachers are to observe and report only, Gochez said. The third tier involves groups such as Union del Barrio that are prepared to gather community members at a scene and provide hands-on support, or, if necessary, obstruct the efforts of immigration agents, even if they risk arrest by doing so, said Gochez, who also is a Union del Barrio leader. Volunteers patrolled outside schools of all grade levels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 93rd Street Elementary School in Green Meadows, Ingrid Villeda, the community school coordinator, and colleague Olga Calacuayo, the schools Title I coordinator, began patrolling blocks around the schools perimeter at 6:45 a.m. They noticed two empty cars that looked suspicious to them and reported them to Union del Barrios tip line. Villeda said she plans to do the same route each morning before school. About 7:35 a.m., school administrators clad in bright orange vests and carrying matching orange "know-your-rights" fliers greeted volunteers standing outside the school gates. The volunteers then busied themselves escorting students and their parents to campus within about a three-block radius. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among them was Diana Holbert, a former childrens pastor. As Holbert made dozens of trips across South San Pedro Street, she said she could sense the fear in the body language of parents and children, who kept their pace fast and eyes forward. Holbert said she felt strongly that these children need to be protected even if that meant putting herself at risk of arrest: Im 78 years old. If it happens, it happens. Children bounced toward the school entrance with excitement. Skylar, a second-grader who sported a glittery pink backpack and a magenta tee, said she couldnt wait to see classmates. I like learning, she grinned widely. Educators are worried Principal Jose Meza greets students on the first day of school at Maya Angelou Community High School. (Carlin Stiehl / Los Angeles Times) Educators throughout the Los Angeles region are expressing worries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Imagine ... leaving your home in the morning and not knowing if your parents or your tio or tia is going to be there when you get back, or your grandparents," said Pomona Unified School District Supt. Darren Knowles. "I remember walking to school as a kid, and I worried about ... the bully. I worried about the dog in the neighbor's yard." Pomona's schools opened Tuesday, and the attendance rate was a little lower than last year's first day, Knowles said at a Wednesday event held with other local leaders to call attention to the importance of good attendance. Read more: Agents detain student at gunpoint near school; safe zones to be expanded around LAUSD campuses While schools continue to be relative havens, educators have been forced to devise protocols about what to do when immigration agents are near a school or attempting to enter campus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is something unprecedented," said Debra Duardo, superintendent of the L.A. County Office of Education, at the Pomona event. "The fear is real, and it is having a direct impact on student attendance and student enrollment." Students arrive on first day of school at Maya Angelou High School in Los Angeles. (Carlin Stiehl/Los Angeles Times) "It's very difficult to teach children when they're afraid," Duardo said. It remains to be seen if some families will opt out of in-person school. Online enrollment rose in the spring semester for L.A. Unified after Trump reentered office. Early this week, it was running about 7% higher than last year, despite overall lower enrollment, officials said. Mistaken identity outside Arleta High In the Monday incident outside Arleta High, family members persuaded officers that the boy was not the person they were looking for and the officers released him. A Department of Homeland Security statement Wednesday praised the family for cooperating. "The mother of the 15-year-old, who is cousins with the alleged MS-13 gang member, was on the scene and worked with Border Patrol," the statement said. "The mother informed Border Patrol that they are often confused for each other. She helped give Border Patrol the information to help apprehend him later in the day." "Once again, our agents keeping streets and the American tax-payer safe from criminals and we will keep doing so until the mission is accomplished," said U.S. Border Patrol Sector Chief Gregory Bovino in a social media post. 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. Rep. Jimmy Gomez of Los Angeles thinks the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement cleared out a migrant detention center ahead of his visit. The politician says ICE must have cleaned up the facility in question because they knew they were breaking the law amid activists calls of inhumane conditions. It was straight out of The Twilight Zone,' Gomez told Jen Psaki on MSNBCs Wednesday segment of The Briefing. We heard stories that it was overcrowded, that people were there, kept for days, and we were finally let in. I kind of already had an idea that it would look like its in the basement. More from TheWrap Gomez went on to describe the center, sharing that there were nine different jail cells and a large area where migrants are processed. However, he explained that only a couple people were there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One person was talking to the Mexican consulate who happened to be there, and the other person was just in the cell with their head down on a table or on the table or something. He was just kind of sitting there, Gomez shared. He then questioned why the center was empty despite the slew of ICE raids taking place throughout the city of Los Angeles. Nearly 2,800 undocumented migrants have been arrested over the past five weeks since early June, per the New York Times. Theyve been running raids, even over the weekend, and all of a sudden theres no one there? Thats just completely bizarre, Gomez said, adding that he had an inkling the facility would be cleared out once theyd given ICE a heads up about their visit. Thats what we knew would happen if we gave them notice, Gomez said. We actually finally got in after almost 14 days, two weeks of giving them a notice and having an appointment. So it was completely staged, completely cleared out. Nobody was being held there, and you hardly saw anybody on duty because there was also nobody there. And then I heard from different families that some of their loved ones were actually shipped to Santa Ana because they knew that the members of Congress were coming in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gomez said that as far as next steps, he heard that some folks are being transported back to a downtown detention facility, where he plans to visit this time without notice. What Im going to do is try to show up according to the law that allows me to drop in without any notice to see whats truly is going on there, Gomez explained. Additionally, were trying to track down families and find out how long their loved ones were held, he said, mentioning that ICE has told him and his team that people are only supposed to be detained for 72 hours. That same day, I talked to a family and a daughter of a loved one who got arrested and held there, she said that her father was arrested on a Monday and wasnt released until Saturday or Sunday of that week. So they keep lying over and over and over again because they know that theyre breaking the law. The post LA Rep. Jimmy Gomez Accuses ICE of Staging Empty Migrant Detention Center: Straight Out of the Twilight Zone | Video appeared first on TheWrap. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) If youve lived in the area more than a week, you have almost certainly seen them: La Rosa fruit bars, the pride of East Bakersfield. The company is celebrating its 45th year, but its also mourning its namesake, co-founder Rosa Garcia Diaz, who died this month. La Rosa Diaz passed away Aug. 2. Norma Diaz, daughter of Jesus Ramos Diaz and Rosa Maria Garcia del Diaz, his wife of 68 years, assures us the company will continue to thrive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The business climate has changed, she said, but Bakersfield still has an appetite for the fruit and fruit-cream bars the Diazes started making full time 45 years ago. Rosa, born in Mexico City in 1937, lived her American dream to the fullest. She was 87. My mom was always a go-getter, Norma Diaz said. She did a lot of brilliant things. She was pretty much the brains between both of them. They would work really hard. Jesus, also a native of Mexico City, helped Rosa open her first business a cake bakery, first in Chicago, then in Bakersfield. It was (called) Cakes for All Occasions, Diaz said. She was always creative. Before that she made flower arrangements from bread crumbs and just did some really awesome things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But there were just too many enterprises going on at once. Well, they had to make a decision, Diaz said. They needed to know (what to choose). You can only do one thing and youre going to do it really good. So they decided on the fruit bars, and thats where it started. That was 1980. Today, theyre still going strong with 27 flavors. Which, you might wonder, was Rosas favorite? Probably like me, they were all her favorites, Diaz said. Just depended on how you felt that day. Lemon-lime (is most loved), strawberry cream is a real close second, and then watermelon took off. What really set the business apart were all those human-powered push carts, in parks and at parades, their clanging bells demanding attention. But these days you dont often see those cart jockeys working the streets. Mostly theyre booked for special events. Birthdays, employee gatherings, high school events. The companys 47 push-carts are mostly in semi-retirement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We used to have 50 (carts), Diaz said. Two go home at night with their drivers. As for the other Somehow somebody pried my fingers off one of them, I dont know, Diaz said. I call them my kids, so every once in a while I count them all, make sure theyre all here, cause once in a while I might forget that ones somewhere else. Despite Rosas passing, La Rosa will celebrate its 45 years in business sometime this year. The star of the show will be Jesus Diaz, who just turned 100. Norma expects fruit-bar fans to bring their memories. Really, its generational, she said. They remember being little (and enjoying La Rosa fruit bars). So theres a lot of stories there, too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She just wishes La Rosa herself, Rosa Garcia Diaz, could be there passing out her fruit bars. LA ROSA FRUIT BARS 27 Flavors Strawberry Lemon-Lime Coconut Pineapple Watermelon Cantaloupe Tamarindo Jamaica Cherry Bubblegum Chile Orange Coconut Cream Strawberry Cream Pina Colada Banana Cream Vanilla Cream Pecan Cream Mango Cream Chocolate Cream Root Beer Float Pistachio Cream Mocha Chip Cream Arroz Con Leche Rompope Cream Guava Cream Monster Cookie Cream Services are at 11 a.m. Friday at Doughty Calhoun OMearas Bakersfield funeral chapel. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Aug. 13A labor strike has indefinitely halted three construction projects in Eastern Washington, including the North Spokane Corridor. Northbound travelers on Freya Street can expect delays of around eight minutes until construction resumes, as Greene street is closed between Mission Avenue and Illinois Avenue. A detour takes drivers to Hamilton Street and then back east for reconnection on Market Street. Two paving projects, one between Babbit Road and state Route 27 along U.S. Highway 195 near Pullman, and another from Hafer Road up into Chewelah, were also halted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All three projects are the Washington's Department of Transportation's, but the construction itself is carried out by contractors. Transportation department spokesman Ryan Overton said that the strike is between the contractors and the workers. Multiple Eastern Washington representatives for International Union for Operating Engineers Local 302 declined to comment on the strike Wednesday. Representative Doug Donley said over text that the silence is because of "legal reasons." Business Manager Daren Konopaski did not immediately respond to requests for comment. With asphalt production plants closing on Oct. 31, Overton said the strike may shorten the available window of time for paving projects this year. City of Spokane spokeswoman Erin Hut said that while no city projects are currently stopped because of the strike, the union is the supplier for much of the city's asphalt. While the city has not yet looked into sourcing asphalt from another company, Hut said in a follow-up message that she believes there are other local providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will make adjustments to schedules and closures as necessary, and notify the public through the media and on our social media accounts," a statement from the public works department said. A phone operator for Kuney Construction, the contractor for the North Spokane Corridor, directed request for comment to the local Associated General Contractors chapter. The chapter spokeswoman, Cheryl Stewart, declined to comment via text. Cannon Barnett's work is funded in part by members of the Spokane community via the Community Journalism and Civic Engagement Fund. This story can be republished by other organizations for free under a Creative Commons license. For more information on this, please contact our newspaper's managing editor. A Labour-run council is facing a backlash over its plans to remove dangerous British flags from lamp posts. Residents in Birmingham have installed hundreds of Union and St Georges flags on the citys streets in the past fortnight in a patriotic outpouring. But the city council plans to remove them after claiming they could put the lives of pedestrians and motorists at risk despite them being 20ft off the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Placing unauthorised attachments on street furniture, particularly tall structures like lamp posts, can be dangerous, the council said in a statement. The Labour-controlled authority, which has been beset by bankruptcy and bin strikes in recent years, has now been accused of showing utter contempt for the British people. Union and St Georges flags line suburban streets amid growing controversy This is nothing short of a disgrace and shows utter contempt for the British people, Lee Anderson, the Reform UK MP, told The Telegraph. We should be flying our flags with pride. Our nation has a rich history of hospitality, generosity and innovation something to be celebrated, not condemned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Any elected official who supports removing the British or English flags, restricting personal freedoms, or silencing free speech should be removed from office for betraying the very country they serve. Councillor Robert Alden, leader of the authoritys Conservative opposition, added: Our national flags are nothing to be ashamed of. Seeing our flags flying gives us all pride in our shared history and achievements as a great nation. Birmingham City Council should be proud to fly them across the City. Labour rushing to rip them down is shameful. He said the council has not previously acted as speedily to take down other types of flags and flyposted advertising on street lamps and traffic lights elsewhere in the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plans to remove the flags came just a day after the authority lit up the city library in green and white to mark the 77th anniversary of Pakistans independence from Britain. Local Tory opposition has accused city leaders of disrespecting national symbols Palestine flags have also flown elsewhere on the citys streets since the war in Gaza began in 2023. The council last year announced a crackdown on the Palestine flags which fly mainly in the predominantly Muslim east of the city but has not succeeded in completely eradicating them. The Government has previously issued guidance saying it wants more flags flown, particularly the Union Flag, as long as they are erected with the permission of the owner of the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The British and English flags have been installed in suburbs in the south-west of Birmingham since the start of August by a group of residents the Weoley Warriors who climb halfway up them with ladders and affix flags using cable ties. Funded by 2,500 in public donations, the campaign is intended to show Birmingham and the rest of the country of how proud we are of our history, freedoms and achievements. The council argues that it has also cracked down on Palestinian flags - Mike Kemp/Getty Simon Morrall, a Conservative councillor for Frankley Great Park, said the flags were a clearly peaceful movement. When the city council cant fix potholes, are closing down youth centres and selling off assets, all while fly-tipping piles up in our community and graffiti is out of control, then finding resources to remove Union flags sends the wrong message, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The suburbs now decked out in red, white and blue include Northfield, Weoley Castle, Bartley Green, Selly Oak and Frankley Great Park. The campaign has been welcomed by local residents who warned there would be trouble, even riots, if they take them down. Hayley Owens, a 40-year-old former police officer, said: We are sick of having to apologise for being British. The flags have had such a positive impact on the community people love them. There is nothing political about it. Dr Helen Ingram, a historian from Northfield, said: We are a small mostly working-class community, and these flags have reinvigorated our collective pride and community spirit. I doubt we will win this, but we will fight our hardest to show that we are British and proud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birmingham City Council said it only opposed flying flags on publicly owned street furniture and would not take the Union or St Georges f Campaigners say the flags bring unity, joy, and a renewed sense of pride - Nick Wilkinson/BPM Media lag down from council housing or private property. A spokesman said its policy was to remove flags, posters and signs of any kind from street lamps or traffic lights. They added that its programme to upgrade lamp posts to energy-efficient LEDs cannot continue if the flags are not removed. The council spokesman said: People who attach unauthorised items to lamp posts could be putting their lives and those of motorists and pedestrians at risk. We are continuing to do this every week, and would ask that staff doing this work are allowed to continue this work unhindered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Birminghams streets have been blighted by mounds of uncollected rubbish this year amid an ongoing bin strike by refuse workers. The industrial action began in January after the Unite union claimed the council told the bin workers they would face pay cuts of up to 8,000. The council declared effective bankruptcy in 2023 and has since been forced to make 300 million of budget cuts. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. A friend of a Labour councillor who called for the throats of far-Right protesters to be cut at an anti-racism rally said the language he used was completely out of character, a court has heard. In the wake of rioting following the Southport murders, Ricky Jones, 58, described demonstrators as disgusting Nazi fascists, his trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court was told. A video of Mr Jones addressing crowds in Walthamstow, east London, on Aug 7 last year, went viral on social media after the protest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wearing a black polo top and surrounded by cheering supporters, the now-suspended councillor said: 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. Giving evidence on Thursday, Joness friend Kevin Courtney, a retired teacher and former joint general secretary of the National Education Union (NEU), said: I had not heard him say those words or anything in any way similar to that. I think they are wrong. I was surprised that Ricky said them... I think it is completely out of character. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both men have campaigned for anti-racism group Stand Up To Racism and have been at rallies together before, the court heard. Ricky Jones has campaigned for equality with the Stand Up to Racism group - Eddie Mulholland Mr Courtney had been at the Aug 7 rally in Walthamstow, had met Mr Jones and the pair had taken a selfie together, but Mr Courtney told the court he did not hear what Mr Jones had said and only became aware of it when he saw videos later. Asked by Hossein Zahir KC, defending, whether Mr Jones had ever encouraged any form of violence, Mr Courtney said: No, it was a complete shock when I saw that video. Rickys speech was wrong, but it didnt fit at all with the mood of the gathering that we were at. The mood was peaceful... Rickys words just didnt gel with that at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The retired teacher added: Rickys words didnt fit with that [mood], therefore people didnt respond to them as anything they should do, it just didnt fit with that at all. The Aug 7 demonstration had been organised in response to plans for a far-Right march outside Waltham Forest Immigration Bureau, jurors were told. It followed the nationwide violent disorder that occurred last summer after the Southport murders. Before the protest, the councillor had been warned to stay away from such demonstrations by the Labour Party. Mr Jones previously told the court he would have attended anyway despite this, adding: Its important for us to turn up to demonstrations like this to support our communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 58-year-old, who has been a borough councillor in Dartford, Kent, since 2019, was arrested on Aug 8 last year and interviewed at Brixton police station that night. Mr Jones, of Dartford, denies one count of encouraging violent disorder. The trial continues. 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. EAU CLAIRE A man facing a 23-count indictment in Eau Claire County was in court Tuesday for his preliminary hearing. The charges against Leo Lacey, 48, include multiple counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, first degree recklessly endangering safety, pointing a firearm at another person and felony bail jumping, along with single counts that include false imprisonment, carrying a concealed weapon and attempting to flee or elude an officer. A charge of felony possession with intent to deliver cocaine was added in mid-July. Lacey entered motions on his own behalf on Tuesday, but those were not heard. The judge indicated they will need to wait until the preliminary hearing, which in turn must wait until Lacey has an attorney. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Papers filed days before the hearing hinted at Tuesdays outcome. Lacey is eligible for a public defender, but one has not yet been appointed. It was the same thing the court was told during a late July hearing. His is just the latest local case to face substantial delays because of difficulties in finding a public defender. While the state has moved in recent years to improve benefits and compensation for public defenders, those steps have not yet alleviated the problems. Since defendants are guaranteed the right to representation if they want it, a lack of public defenders can mean long delays. Those in turn can call into question whether the defendants right to a speedy trial is being violated. In Laceys case the complaint was filed in late May, beginning the case. A $100,000 cash bond was set for him the same day. Court records give no indication of any defense motions for reduction, a common effort for such bonds, and Lacey remains listed on the Eau Claire County Jails inmate roster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the criminal complaint, officers responded to a report of a gun drawn at an Eau Claire tobacco store. Officers spoke to the man who made the claim, and he told them he was in the store when Lacey entered. The two were acquaintances and had used drugs together. Lacey walked up behind him and pressed a gun into his ribs before asking the man whether he was working with the police. He denied doing so. Lacey and the man left the store and got into Laceys car, where the man said he retrieved a loaded magazine and said he had additional guns before asking again whether he was working with police. Again, the man denied doing so. After Lacey allowed the man to leave he contacted his probation officer, which led to the report. Security video from the business backed up the mans account. Officers put out a notice asking law enforcement to watch for Lacey. Another officer spotted Laceys car the next day and kept watch as Lacey and a woman got in. He followed the vehicle so he could be positive the driver was Lacey and, when he was, pulled him over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lacey stopped, but refused to shut off the engine. He ordered the woman out of the car contrary to the officers instructions. Once she was out, he sped off and managed to lose the pursuing officer. Later that same day officers received a report of a hit-and-run involving Lacey. Lacey ran from the scene, but they eventually found him. After being arrested Lacey said the gun was a BB gun and that the victim should have known he couldnt have a real one since he has a previous felony conviction. He denied making any threats, calling the encounter at the store just playing, or ever having real ammunition. Officers continued to question him about the guns and Lacey eventually admitted he had hidden one. Police found it under some leaves near a shed, where Lacey said it would be. The gun traced back to Garrett Waldinger, who had reported it being stolen. That report wasnt accurate. Lacey said Waldinger bought the gun on his behalf, an accusation that led to charges of making a straw purchase of a firearm and obstructing an officer being filed against Waldinger. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While most of the felonies in the case are comparatively low level, the sheer volume carries the potential for considerable time in prison. The Class F and G charges alone could mean more than 30 years behind bars. Lacey has not been arraigned in the case yet, and has not entered a plea. He also faces a single count of failure to register as a sex offender, a charge tied to his Illinois conviction for aggravated criminal sexual assault. He is next due in court in early September. NEED TO KNOW Twenty-two pet tarantulas were found abandoned in an apartment in Greater Manchester, U.K. Four of the spiders were found alive and re-homed with a reptile specialist with help from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) It is currently unclear if there were more than 22 tarantulas living in the abandoned unit Twenty-two pet tarantulas were found abandoned in an apartment in Greater Manchester, U.K., on June 23. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) rescued four of the large spiders alive. The creepy crawlers were discovered in upside-down plastic tubs, and many of them died. The discovery was made in a unit at Bramhall Court on Cannon St. in Salford. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Animal Rescue Officer David Cottingham from the RSPCA told the BBC it was "very upsetting" that so many of the arachnids had died by the time they were found. The organization rehabilitated and re-homed the surviving four tarantulas with a reptile specialist. Cottingham told the outlet that the strange case shines a light on why "exotic pets, including invertebrates like tarantulas, should only ever be kept by individuals who fully understand and are prepared for the commitment and responsibility involved." A former tenant confessed to leaving the spiders at the apartment. They signed over ownership to the RSPCA "through a third party", per the BBC. PEOPLE reached out to the RSPCA for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Tarantulas require specific housing, temperature, and humidity levels to survive - conditions that had clearly not been met," Cottingham added. "These spiders suffered needlessly due to abandonment and neglect." The shocking discovery came just before German authorities discovered 1,500 tarantulas inside cake boxes in transit from Vietnam to Cologne Bonn Airport on July 14. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Customs agents made the discovery after receiving a report of a smell that didnt reflect the scent of confectionery treats. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. My colleagues at the airport are regularly surprised by the contents of prohibited packages from all over the world, but the fact that they found around 1,500 small plastic containers containing young tarantulas in this package left even the most experienced among them speechless, Cologne customs office spokesperson, Jens Ahland, said in a statement at the time. Read the original article on People HINDS COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) There will be alternating lane closures on Interstate 55 in Byram. The closures will occur in both directions of I-55 between Byram/Siwell Road (Exit 85) and Wynndale Road (Exit 81) between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on August 14, 2025. Man killed in Montgomery County crash According to officials with the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), crews will perform maintenance repairs that will require alternating lane closures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once southbound work is complete, alternating lane closures will take place in the northbound lanes. Officials said drivers should slow down, anticipate changing traffic conditions and be alert for roadside crews along this stretch of I-55. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) A judge arraigned Andrial Ortiz on 17 felony charges after disarming multiple officers and shooting one in the leg. The Lansing Police Department pulled over Ortiz, 30, from Lansing, on April 10, 2024. Officers arrested him after finding narcotics in his car during a consensual search. Ortiz resisted, according to the Michigan Attorney Generals (AG) office, and attempted to disarm both officers during a struggle. Lansing police release video of officer-involved shooting Lansing police release video of officer-involved shooting. (Still: Lansing Police Dept.) Lansing police release video of officer-involved shooting. (Still: Lansing Police Dept.) Lansing police release video of officer-involved shooting. (Still: Lansing Police Dept.) Lansing police release video of officer-involved shooting. (Still: Lansing Police Dept.) Police say he then attempted to disarm an officer a third time and shot an LPD officer in the leg. A different officer then shot Ortiz in the leg once and took his gun, according to a news release from the AGs office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No place Id rather be: LPD officer back on patrol after shooting The shooting was reviewed by the AG, and said the LPDs use of force was justified. Disarming an officer is an incredibly reckless act; one that gravely endangers officers on scene and all nearby members of the public, Michigan AG Dana Nessel said in a news release. Magistrate Laura Millmore arraigned Ortiz with: One count of resisting and obstructing a police officer, causing serious impairment (a 15-year felony) Two counts of disarming a police officer (a 10-year felony) One count of attempting to disarm a police officer (a 5-year felony) Two counts of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (a 5-year felony) One count of resisting and obstructing a police officer, causing injury (a 4-year felony) Two counts of resisting and obstructing a police officer (a 2-year felony) Eight counts of felony firearm, second offense (a 5-year felony, each count carrying a mandatory consecutive sentence) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suspect disarmed detective, used gun to shoot officers Ortiz was charged as a habitual fourth offender and was granted a bond of $100,000. A probable cause conference is scheduled for Aug. 22 and a preliminary examination on these charges is scheduled before Judge Cynthia Ward on Aug. 29. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. A new immigration detention facility, expected to be the largest in the United States, is set to open this week after facing months of delays, including a failed contract and a workplace death. The detention facility, dubbed Lonestar Lockup by Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn, will begin receiving hundreds of people on August 17. The site at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, has an initial capacity of approximately 1,000, but that will expand to 5,000, making it the largest Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in the country. Donald Trumps administration has rushed to open detention camps including in Florida, dubbed Alligator Alcatraz, and Indianas Speedway Slammer, to fulfill the presidents mass deportation agenda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 60,000 people are now being held in immigrant detention centers, according to internal ICE records obtained by The New York Times, breaking the previous record of 55,654 people in August 2019. The process of building the soft-sided tent camp at the Texas military base has been beset by controversies since the beginning. The largest immigration detention facility in the US at Fort Bliss, Texas, is expected to hold roughly 5,000 immigrants (Reuters) For the past six months, Trump officials have been seeking to build an ICE facility on a military base, eventually settling on Fort Bliss. In April, the administration initially awarded a multi-billion-dollar contract to a company called Deployed Resources to build the Fort Bliss camp but it was quickly canceled. A White House document about the contract claims it was terminated for convenience, citing Trumps executive order on wasteful spending and transparency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weeks later, the government offered two contracts to build and maintain the facility, but both offers were pulled before they could be awarded to a new company. It is unclear why. Finally, in July, the Department of Defense announced it had secured a $231.9 million contract, under a Navy program, with Acquisition Logistics LLC to construct and operate the ICE detention facility in El Paso. Another company that did not win the bid, Gemini Tech Services LLC., filed a bid protest in July. While it is sealed, a source told NBC News the company was seeking to stop construction of the facility. The Fort Bliss project is also subject of two investigations by the Government Accountability Office, an independent nonpartisan agency that audits, investigates, and evaluates government services, according to NBC News. Those investigations are for improper bidding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, the project faced tragedy after Hector Gonzalez, a 38-year-old employee with a subcontracted company, died in a workplace accident. The death is being investigated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as well as the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division. Hector was a beloved husband, father, son, brother and co-worker and he will be greatly missed. Our support and prayers are with his entire family, a spokesperson for his company, Disaster Management Group, told NBC News. In response to questions about the bid protest and workplace accident death, an Army spokesperson told NBC News that they are aware of the GAO protest for the Acquisition Logistics contract, but could not discuss the issue due to ongoing litigation. Trump with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at Alligator Alcatraz in Florida. He has prioritized carrying-out the largest deportation of undocumented immigrants in the country (AP) However, we can confirm that this protest is unrelated to the recent death, which is under investigation, the Army spokesperson added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, ICE said that the Fort Bliss facility will adhere to the agencys detention standards and will include access to legal representation, visitation, recreation space, and medical treatment space. The immigration detention center will also provide balanced meals and necessary accommodations, ICE stated. The facility with serve as a detention center and processing center, streamlining the removal process, ICE noted. "Upon completion, this will be the largest federal detention center in history for this critical mission - the deportation of illegal aliens," Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson said. So far, several states have assisted the federal government by building detention facilities including Florida, which erected Alligator Alcatraz, a tent camp and temporary holding center in the Everglades. Its been subject to scrutiny by lawmakers and detainees for its poor conditions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, the Speedway Slammer, an extension of the Miami Correctional Facility in Indiana, has also been subject to criticism from local people who believe the facility is an inhumane way of housing immigrants. Both facilities were built quickly to assist in the administrations mass deportation agenda which has compounded worries from Democratic lawmakers and immigration advocates that the locations are unable to meet the stringent requirements of an ICE facility. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) Residents in an east Las Vegas neighborhood are demanding that the city of Las Vegas act before its too late. They want flashing crosswalk signs at the intersection of North Eastern and Isabelle avenues. What do we have to wait for, death? And I dont want to wait for death, David Gomez, who owns a business nearby, said. This is set at 35 miles an hour. I dont think they know what 35 miles an hour means. I think it means a suggestion to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gomez has had it with the drivers at the intersection, and even demonstrated to 8 News Now how cars ignore pedestrians trying to cross on the marked crosswalk by crossing the street. He was going from the west side of Eastern to the east side of Eastern. Why do we have to wait? Were here at a crosswalk. You see, he doesnt wait, Gomez said, pointing to a vehicle. Gomez and his neighbor shared several photos and videos capturing car crashes and near misses with pedestrians with 8 News Now. One video from Aug. 5 showed a car nearly hitting a homeless person. The vehicle instead struck the persons cart. A metro officer is seen on video arresting the driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then there was another video taken three days later on Aug. 8 showing cars slowing down and stopping for a pedestrian who was crossing. Two cars, however, did not get the memo and collided, sending debris on the street. It was the same story a month and a half before, on June 29. Cars stopped for a pedestrian, but one car that was traveling too fast, to avoid hitting a pickup truck, jumped the curb and knocked down a walk sign. I want to see them put up one of the flasher signs, but the red one. Not the yellow one. If they wont respect three yellow signs, two crossing guards with stop signs they need a red sign, Gomez said. The crossing guards are at the intersection to help students who are crossing from Sunrise Acres Elementary School and Roy Martin Middle School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gomezs children go to Martin Middle School. A childs life is as important to me as it should be to anyone else, Gomez said. Gabriel Lopez also lives at the corner of Isabelle and Eastern. Both his children attend Sunrise Acres Elementary. Lopez said a flashing sign is missing, and its necessary. He added that as citizens, there must be respect for road signs and the people crossing. The City of Las Vegas sent a statement on the intersection, which could be found in full below: Since these locations are near schools, the city collects data during school days to capture normal traffic patterns and the increased activity during drop-off and pick-up times. We study locations through data collection and plan improvements as funding becomes available, which can take time. Past reviews in this area identified the pedestrian crossing at Eastern Avenue and Isabelle Avenue for upgrades in our Pedestrian Master List, including the possibility of a pedestrian-activated crossing. This location is covered by the SS4A competitive national grant we were awarded, so improvements are planned within the next five years. In the meantime, two crossing guards assist at this location during school hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In September 2023, we conducted a walk audit for Roy Martin Middle School and Sunrise Acres Elementary School, in consultation with the Ward 3 office and CCSD Suggested Routes to School. As a result, the city completed 53 school-related improvements, on public streets, including new signs, striping and red curb installation. We also conducted a traffic study at Sunrise Avenue and 28th Street, which led to converting the intersection to an all-way stop in May 2024. We continue to work with police agencies on enforcement in the area. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A major homeless encampment on the east side of the Las Vegas valley that neighbors were trying to get moved has been cleared. The encampment was located on North 23rd Street near Eastern and Owens avenues, across from the Casa Bonita Apartments, inside a private fenced-off lot. Las Vegas residents demand action as homeless encampment grows We have a lot of absentee owners who are from out of state that own these empty lots, Al Rojas with the Safe Communities Network said. We have people that are not monitoring the lots, or they dont know the trespassing rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He oversaw much of the removal, working alongside outreach teams like The Nevada Peace Alliance. Las Vegas metro police and code enforcement also worked to remove tents, mattresses, and debris while also offering help. The Safe Communities Network partnered with the Nevada Peace Alliance for five years in an effort to help remove encampments across the city. Just moving them along doesnt give them a resource, David Gomez, president of the Nevada Peace Alliance, told 8 News Now. Getting them to the right resource helps them to move forward in life. Briana Talbot, property manager for Casa Bonita Apartments, said the camp had become a constant concern for residents, but is happy to see the lot empty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel better showing my property to potential tenants. I just had a move-in yesterday, and the person was commenting on how nice the area was, so thats a good thing, Talbot said. Rojas added that the Safe Communities Network will be working alongside the property owner to monitor the area and put up tow-away signs to prevent further encampments from popping up. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Negotiators trying to secure a global agreement on tackling the scourge of plastic pollution have less than 24 hours to salvage a deal on Thursday after the talks plunged into total disarray. Countries wanting bold action to turn the tide on plastic garbage are so far apart from a group of oil-producing nations that the prospects of finding meaningful common ground before Friday -- after three years of talks -- seem low. With just over a day to go, the talks chair Luis Vayas Valdivieso produced a draft text based on the few areas of convergence, in an attempt to find common ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the draft succeeded only in infuriating virtually all corners and the text was immediately shredded as one country after another ripped it to bits. For the self-styled ambitious countries, it was an empty document shorn of bold action like curbing production and phasing out toxic ingredients and reduced down to a waste management accord. And for the so-called Like-Minded Group, with Gulf states leading the charge, it crossed too many of their red lines and did not do enough to narrow down the scope of what they might be signing up for. Negotiators from 184 countries have been working at the United Nations in Geneva since August 5 to try to conclude a first international accord on dealing with plastic pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The problem is so ubiquitous that microplastics have been found on the highest mountain peaks, in the deepest ocean trench and scattered throughout almost every part of the human body. A fifth and supposedly final round of talks in South Korea late last year broke up without agreement -- meaning the Geneva talks are already stretching the limits. - Stomped, spat on and burned - Presenting his draft, Ecuadorian diplomat Vayas said the text was an attempt at capturing the elements that could lay the foundation for a treaty to be concluded Thursday, saying it "builds on those areas where convergence exists". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Colombia and Chile were first out of the blocks to brand the draft entirely unacceptable, while Panama said the red lines of the majority of countries were "not only stomped, they were spat on and they were burned". "This is not about closing a treaty at any cost: it is about closing a wound that we're leaving open in our rivers, in our oceans. But the text presented here makes that wound fatal and we will not accept it. This is simply repulsive. It is not ambition: it is surrender." Kenya said the text had been "significantly diluted and lost its very objective", having no "demonstrable value... to end plastic pollution". Afterwards, France's Ecological Transition Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher told reporters the text needed rebalancing and it was still "possible to write a text of 10 pages that takes into account all the main points". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - Remaining hours 'critical' With ministers in Geneva for the final day of negotiations, environmental NGOs following the talks urged them to grasp the moment. The World Wide Fund for Nature said the remaining hours would be "critical in turning this around". "The implications of a watered-down, compromised text on people and nature around the world is immense," and failure on Thursday "means more damage, more harm, more suffering", it said. Greenpeace delegation chief Graham Forbes called on ministers to "uphold the ambition they have promised" and address "the root cause: the relentless expansion of plastic production". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Center for International Environmental Law's delegation chief David Azoulay said the draft was a "mockery", and as for eventually getting to a deal, he said: "It will be very difficult to come back from this". rjm/im/phz A fake story from a Brazilian fugitive accusing former Trump Attorney General Bill Barr of colluding with Georgia District Attorney Fani Willis and Armstrong Williams to indict President Trump swept through MAGA world this summer. How did a lie from a Brazilian woman being actively pursued by the FBI dominate the rights media landscape and turn them against a longtime Trump ally? The Bulwark reports that it originated from Patricia Lelis, a woman who was indicted last year in a wire fraud case after stealing around $700,000 and using it for her houses down payment and credit card bill, among other things. She fled the country before serving any time and was last seen in Mexico. In Brazil, Lelis is infamous for a false rape accusation against Brazilian pastor and politician Marco Feliciano, which led to her being arrested, with Brazilian law enforcement ultimately releasing a report that claimed she had a mental condition that caused her to lie impulsively. In 2021, she claimed that then-President Jair Bolsonaros son Eduardo threatened to kill her over text. Police determined she forged the messages and arrested her instead once again. She was kicked out of the Brazilian Workers Party for being extremely transphobic, and even made posts falsely claiming she was pregnant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lelis is essentially a professional international charlatan. How did she become the point person for the accusations of treason against Barr? Its all Armstrong Williamss fault. The Black conservative talking head hired Lelis without verifying anything about her background or history, as she claimed to be an immigration lawyer to get the job with Williams. She worked for him for two years, 2021 to 2023, stealing money from his organization in the process. Lelis concocted a story based on her time working for Armstrong, in which she alleges that, while sitting in as a notetaker during meetings, she witnessed Armstrong, Barr, and Willis coordinating Trumps prosecutions, which doesnt make much sense given that Barr was not attorney general while Lelis was working for Armstrong. None of the conservative pundits who took up Leliss story seemed to care. And neither did Project Veritas, which featured Lelis multiple times as a brave whistleblower whose life was in danger as Barr was trying to silence her. Breaking Bombshell! Project Veritas Whistleblower Reveals Deep State Cabal Including Bill Barr, Armstrong Williams and Fani Willis Targeted Trump Supporters Including: General Flynn, Alex Jones, Roger Stone, Steve Bannon, Rudy Giuliani, Nick Fuentes, Oath Keepers, & The Proud pic.twitter.com/u0AZV4MwzB Alex Jones (@RealAlexJones) August 8, 2025 One thing that I understood very well is like Bill Barr and Armstrong and all the politicians too, theyre very focused like in how they go to stop Trump, Lelis said in a Project Veritas article. Brazilians tried to warn Project Veritas. Now no one knows where Lelis is. Let this be a lesson to at least google someone before you platform their allegations of plots against the president. The Los Angeles Unified School District, the nations second largest, begins a new school year Thursday as it welcomes back more than 500,000 students. KTLA reporter Carlos Herrera spent part of his morning talking with the people who many students will start their day with, the school bus drivers. To make a difference, you just say good morning, always smile, driver Terrell Green told Carlos. It goes a long way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Green also explained that the drivers often walk students to their seats and assist them with seat belts if needed. Any help they need were always there, she said. Meanwhile, ongoing immigration raids have some families concerned about leaving their homes to go to school. On Monday, a 15-year-old boy with disabilities was detained in what was described as a case of mistaken identity. LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho says incidents like this are not acceptable and can be traumatic to students. I do not find it acceptable as a father that a three-year-old, a four-year-old, a five or six-year-old, or a 15-year-old would have to witness, as they walk to school, or as they are taken to school, images of individuals with masks and uniforms with long guns in hand. Visuals that are shocking to adults, Carvalho said on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The superintendent in charge of an estimated 540,000 students was also out early Thursday morning and talked with Carlos about the upcoming school year, as well as the districts safety measures. Trust us. Were going to inspire greatness every single day, Carvalho said. Number one, we have perimeter safety around schools we expanded transportation routes We also have partnerships with community-based organizations as well as cities to protect our kids every single day. The LAUSD has also produced a Family Preparedness Care Package to distribute to parents and students. Schools are safe, joyful places for every kid, and I promise, this is going to be our best year yet, Carvalho said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. LAWRENCE COUNTY, Mo. A Lawrence County man has been sentenced after law enforcement discovered the creation of obscene artificial intelligence-generated photos. According to online court dockets, Alberto Camacho, born 1978, of Aurora, has been sentenced following a guilty plea on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Camacho has been sentenced to 15 years on sexual exploitation of a minor and five years on possession of child pornography. The two sentences will run consecutively. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Aurora man charged after allegedly using AI to create child porngraphy Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The probable cause statement says that the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office signed a search warrant for four flash drives that were owned by Camacho on Tuesday, June 17. The flash drives displayed three AI photos displaying child pornography of the minor, the statement says. Camacho told law enforcement in a post-Miranda interview that he created the images using AI of the victim, who is under the age of 18. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) Lawyers for Lackawanna County are asking Pennsylvanias highest court to step into a fight over how to replace a former commissioner. On Tuesday, attorneys for Commissioner Bill Gaughan and the county filed a petition asking the state supreme court to hear their case. Superior Court asked to reconsider overturned DUI sentence It stems from the vacancy left by former commissioner Matt McGloin, and whether the countys home rule charter or a state rule of civil procedure should decide who fills it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A panel of local, senior judges and the Commonwealth Court have already ruled the charter should prevail. McGloin resigned as commissioner back in March. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) What were Youngstown City officials expecting when they took some of their American Rescue Plan money and put it toward helping people buy homes in the city? A year into the program, there are now numbers to gauge the interest. Youngstowns Housing director, John Noga, presented to the city councils Community Planning and Economic Development Committee what has been done to date with parts of the At Home in Youngstown program. As of today, we have funded 116 individuals or families through the At Home downpayment assistance program for a total of $1,150,000, Noga said. When the program started a year ago, $5 million was allocated to give people up to $10,000 to help with down payments and closing costs toward the purchase of a home in Youngstown. They could also get an additional $15,000 for energy-efficient upgrades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between the downpayments and upgrades, 30% of the $5 million allocated has been spent. spent. Noga said the vast majority of people using the money live in or around Youngstown. Only five people have moved from outside the area, and they have some connection to the area. I wish this number were a little higher, but I think as word gets out, I think it is definitely a possibility, Noga said. The 4th and 5th wards in Youngstown received half of the down-payment assistance. Those wards make up Youngstowns entire West Side. The 2nd and 3rd wards, the East and North sides, have the fewest, at eight each. There is also a program for landlords, but so far, only one has applied. Councilman Julius Oliver told the committee that Youngstowns housing incentive program should be marketed nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Especially, look at the state of California. How many people are fleeing California and running to Texas? Oliver asked. If Youngstown is one of the number one places to live, why not advertise in California. Say, Hey, come here,' Oliver said. Its estimated that the $1.15 million of payment assistance leveraged a total investment of $14.2 million into the city of Youngstown. More information about the At Home in Youngstown program can be found on the citys 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 WKBN.com. More details on California Democrats proposed overhaul to the state congressional map are coming to light in advance of the official release of the new boundaries. State lawmakers were briefed Wednesday evening on the expected partisan tilt of all 52 congressional districts, providing the clearest view yet of which Republican districts they are targeting. The changes, which are not yet final, were detailed in a chart obtained by POLITICO and confirmed by multiple legislators and staffers. CD-1, the rural northeastern corner of the state represented by Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa, transforms from safe Republican to safe Democratic CD-3, a sprawling district along Californias eastern border represented by GOP Rep. Kevin Kiley, goes from safe Republican to safe Democratic CD-9, Democratic Rep. Josh Harders northern Central Valley district, moves from lean Democratic to safe Democratic CD-13, a Central Valley seat narrowly won last year by Democratic Rep. Adam Gray, changes from lean Republican to safe Democratic CD-27, a northern Los Angeles County seat held by Democratic Rep. George Whitesides, moves from lean Democratic to safe Democratic CD-41, a battleground seat held by GOP Rep. Ken Calvert, transforms from safe Republican to safe Democratic CD-45, which Democratic Rep. Derek Tran won last year in the most expensive race in the country, goes from lean Democratic to safe Democratic CD-47, an Orange County district represented by Democratic Rep. Dave Min, moves from lean Democratic to safe Democratic CD-48, which spans Riverside and San Diego counties and is held by GOP Rep. Darrell Issa, changes from safe Republican to lean Democratic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new maps could also see more Democrats added into the Central Valley district of GOP Rep. David Valadao, who has already been able to defy gravity in a seat with a Democratic registration advantage. Gov. Gavin Newsom, speaking to reporters after he kicked off the campaign to give voters final approval over the still-unreleased districts, teased their imminent debut. "People are eager to see the maps, he said. We anticipate that these maps will completely neuter and neutralize what is happening in Texas." Republicans are already denouncing the move. The nine-member California Republican House delegation released a joint statement Thursday pointing to the newest POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab survey which found strong bipartisan majorities prefer district lines be drawn by an independent commission than lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Governor Newsom is trying to grab power away from the citizens on the commission and give it to Sacramento politicians to gerrymander their own districts, the statement said. Our delegation will stand with the citizens of California and defend their rights as they stand today in our state constitution by opposing Newsoms ballot measure. All Californians, regardless of their political affiliation, should vote NO on this attempt to eliminate the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commissions ability to draw fair congressional districts. The unveiling of the maps as soon as Friday sets the stage for a week-long sprint through the Legislature. Legislators must approve a constitutional amendment to be approved by the voters, as well as companion bills to put the maps in statute as well address the cost of the special election and other logistics. The bills are expected to be heard by the elections committees in both houses on Tuesday and appropriations committees on Wednesday before final floor votes Thursday. The breakneck speed means that none of the measures can be amended without facing a delay under the 72-hour rule. NORTH OGDEN Flames reached backyards as a new wildfire burns in North Ogden on Wednesday evening, but no structures have been lost, state fire officials said. About 150 homes are now evacuated after a vehicle fire sparked a wildfire, dubbed the Willard Peak Fire, in North Ogden Wednesday afternoon and the blaze grew to an estimated 300 acres. Residents gather to watch the fire burning near homes and on the mountain in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Dubbed the Willard Peak Fire, the blaze is threatening about 15 to 20 structures, according to state fire officials at Utah Fire Info. The fire is burning uphill, and multiple ground crews and aircraft are responding. #WillardPeakFire (formerly #NorthOgdenFire) is 5075 acres in flashy fine fuels & gamble oak. Ground crews & aircraft engaged. Evacuations ordered E of 1050 E & N of 3300 N by North Ogden PD. If told to evacuateleave. Avoid the area. Human-caused. #ffslkmg pic.twitter.com/2fbsdMVwX3 Utah Fire Info (@UtahWildfire) August 13, 2025 A plane drops fire retardant on the Willard Peak fire as it burns in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News An evacuation order had been issued for those living east of 1050 East and north of 3100 North in the northeastern part of the city, up the mountainside. The city is also calling on residents to avoid the area so emergency responders can fight the blaze. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Evacuations are expected to continue overnight Wednesday. A firefighter walks on a ridgeline as fire burns near homes and on the mountain in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Wednesday evening, the fire was burning a half mile from homes, but firefighters were concerned about winds pushing the fire closer, said Jeremiah Jones, deputy fire chief of fire operations at North View Fire District. Hand crews were trying to reinforce fire lines and try to make it as safe as possible for tonight, Jones said. Johnathan Chapman watches from his roof as the Willard Peak fire burns in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News The winds arent in our favor, hampering efforts to attack the fire by air, he said. Firefighters goal if the fire does travel down the mountainside to neighborhoods is to skirt the fire around houses. One thing that hinders that a little bit is that every night the winds shift and come down the canyon, and so we anticipate that will be, were starting to feel a little bit of that now, Jones said. Residents stand on a pushed up pile of dirt for a better look of the fire burning near homes and on the mountain in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Fire started on private property and has moved onto Forest Service land, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The American Red Cross of Utah Northern Utah Chapter opened an evacuation center at 3602 N. 500 West in Pleasant View for those displaced by the fire. Sue Stewart, retired director of fire and aviation for Region 4 of the Forest Service, watches planes fly by to drop fire retardant as the Willard Peak fire burns in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. Stewart lives in the neighborhood. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News Approximately 29,000 Rocky Mountain Power customers in Weber County are without power due to an emergency de-energization, the power company posted on Facebook. It advised customers in the county who have power to turn off your A/C and other appliances where possible to help crews get power back on for others more quickly. Rocky Mountain Power has also advised customers without power to turn off their air conditioner and other appliances at the breaker box, which will allow power to be restored to the home faster when fire conditions improve. Fire burns near homes and on the mountain in North Ogden on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News The U.S. Forest Service announced trail closures in the area, including the North Fork Ogden Divide trailhead and parts of the Skyline North and Bonneville Shoreline trails. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roads are being closed near the fire and North Ogden Cove, city officials said, adding please do not pass barricades unless you live in the immediate area. This story will be updated. Contributing: Erin Cox View of the smoke of the North Ogden fire 2:25pm pic.twitter.com/5Mj7BxKPl9 Tornado Explorer WX (@TornadoExplorWX) August 13, 2025 At least 56 people have been killed and dozens more remain missing after a sudden cloudburst unleashed torrential rain in Indian-administered Kashmir, authorities said, marking the second major disaster in the Himalayas in just over a week. The deluge struck Chisoti, a town in Kishtwar district, on Thursday morning. The site serves as a key stop along the pilgrimage route to the Machail Mata temple, a revered Himalayan shrine dedicated to Goddess Durga. Television footage showed terrified pilgrims crying as water surged through the settlement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Omar Abdullah, chief minister of the federal territory of Jammu and Kashmir (Indian-administered Kashmir), described the situation as grim and said confirmed details were slow to emerge from the remote location. Mohammed Irshad said 80 people were reported missing and 300 people were rescued, 50 of whom are severely injured and were sent to nearby hospitals. Irshad, a top disaster management official, told the AFP news agency that 56 dead bodies were recovered from the site before rescue efforts were halted for the night. Local officials said the death toll from the devastating flood that damaged or washed away many homes was likely to rise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sushil Kumar, a resident of the nearby Atholi village, told AFP: I saw at least 15 dead bodies brought to the local hospital. Pankaj Kumar Sharma, district commissioner of Kishtwar, said earlier that there are chances of more dead bodies being found. According to Ramesh Kumar, divisional commissioner of Kishtwar, the cloudburst hit at about 11:30am local time (06:00 GMT). He told ANI news agency that police and disaster response teams were on the ground, while army and air force units had also been mobilised. Search and rescue operations are under way, Kumar said. An official, who asked not to be named as they were not authorised to speak to the media, said the flood swept away a community kitchen and a security post set up to serve pilgrims. A large number of pilgrims had gathered for lunch and they were washed away, the official told the news agency Reuters. Buildings damaged in flash floods caused by torrential rains are seen in a remote, mountainous village, in the Chisoti area, Indian-administered Kashmir, on Thursday, August 14, 2025 [AP Photo] The India Meteorological Department defines a cloudburst as a sudden, extreme downpour exceeding 100mm (4 inches) of rain in an hour, often triggering flash floods and landslides in mountainous regions during the monsoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, a similar disaster in Uttarakhand, another Himalayan state, buried an entire village under mud and debris after heavy rains. The Srinagar weather office has warned of further intense rainfall in several parts of Kashmir, including Kishtwar, and urged residents to avoid unstable structures, power lines and old trees due to the risk of additional landslides and flash floods. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. Floods and landslides are common during the monsoon season from June to September, but experts say climate change, coupled with poorly planned development, is increasing their frequency and severity. The UNs World Meteorological Organization said last year that increasingly intense floods and droughts are a distress signal of what is to come as climate change makes the planets water cycle ever more unpredictable. NEED TO KNOW At least nine children and the driver of a school bus have been injured after it crashed and rolled over in Texas The incident took place in Austin on Wednesday, Aug. 13 Students were traveling home from their first day of school when the crash occurred, according to reports Multiple children have been left injured after a school bus carrying over 40 students crashed in Austin, Texas. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, the Travis County Emergency Services District revealed in a press release that a Leander Independent School District bus had been carrying 43 individuals when it rolled over on Nameless Road near Honeycomb Lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident took place on the first day of the new school year at around 3:00 p.m, according to ABC News and NBC News. The release confirmed that nine students and the bus driver had been transported to local medical facilities for evaluation and treatment, while a reunification center was set up at Round Mountain Church for the remaining 33 students to be "safely reunited with their families. A total of 12 people are reported to be injured, according to ABC News. Travis County Emergency Services The damaged school bus The damaged school bus The emergency services district then thanked the agencies that assisted, which included Leander Fire Department, Cedar Park Fire Department, Pflugerville Fire (Travis County ESD 2), Austin-Travis County EMS and STAR Flight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the injured, one patient's injuries are described as life-threatening while two other's are potentially life-threatening, per ABC News and NBC News. Travis County Emergency Services The damaged school bus following the crash in Austin, Texas The damaged school bus following the crash in Austin, Texas The remaining injured people are reported to have non life-threatening injuries. PEOPLE has contacted the Travis County Emergency Services Department and the Leander Independent School District for further comment. Travis County Emergency Services Travis County Emergency Services crew Travis County Emergency Services crew Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. An official with the Texas Department of Public Safety told press that the bus drove to the right before rolling over, per NBC News. There was reportedly a slight curve in the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In pictures shared by Travis County Emergency Services District, the bus was seen damaged as it lay on its side while surrounded by trees. Superintendent of the Leander Independent School District, Bruce Gearing, told ABC News that the bus driver was well experienced, adding that the bus would mainly carry elementary school students. This part of our Leander ISD family has been through so much already this summer with the floods and this tragedy this afternoon is really breaking our hearts, he told the outlet. 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 that we can in our power to support them. The incident marked the third school bus crash in three days in Texas. The first two incidents involved Cleveland Independent School District buses, with one occurring on Monday when a bus flipped on its side into a ditch, while the second saw a bus end up on its side after rolling over on Wednesday. Read the original article on People 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 In 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Lees Summit Police Department reports a missing 7-year-old girl with autism has been located and is safe. Police said Mona Alsakeini was located just before 6 p.m. She was reported missing on Wednesday after she was last seen at her house around 4:10 p.m. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android She left the home in an unknown direction of travel, according to police. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. When Horst Mahler, lawyer, terrorist and anti-Semite, died last month at the age of 89, that nemesis of Germany had become little more than a deranged demagogue who had lost a leg to diabetes and was fatigued by years in prison. Such is the derangement of the times, however, that Mahler a member of the notorious hard-Left Baader-Meinhof gang who later converted to neo-Nazism is more relevant in death than he ever was in life. With sensible politics around the world challenged by anti-Western fervour, this is increasingly Mahlers moment. Across the political extremes, his hallmarks are familiar today: conspiratorial thinking; a pathological hatred for the United States, the West and all our old certainties; a cleaving to utopian radicalism; and a loathing for both Israel and the Jews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since October 7, this omnidogma has accelerated its advance, reaching for influence in our schools, universities, throughout the arts and media, in our formerly great northern towns and cities, on the streets, in the digital universe and through the benighted corridors of Lanyardistan. It reached a bloody nadir in Washington DC last May, when two young Israeli diplomats were gunned down in the name of Palestine, and in the firebombing of elderly Jews in Colorado by an Egyptian national a few weeks later. In Britain, it has prompted death chants at Glastonbury and the sabotage of RAF aircraft by the bourgeois radicals of Palestine Action, not to mention relentless street unrest. But its spirit has also inspired the far-Right, with figures like the American firebrand Tucker Carlson and European insurgent parties Alternative fur Deutschland and Rassemblement National indulging an animosity towards Israel, fondness for the erstwhile Assad regime and adoration for Vladimir Putin. Anything, in other words, that hurts us. Tulsi Gabbard, Donald Trumps director of national intelligence, is a prominent denizen of this swamp. She clashed with the president over the American attack on Iran. Closer to home, former BNP leader Nick Griffin has appeared on a podcast produced by 5Pillars, the Islamist website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This convergence of radicalisms, which takes hatred of the Jews and packs it with contempt for liberal Western values, could now perhaps best be described as the Horst Mahler complex. More than anybody else, Mahlers life story demonstrated that the gap between far-Left and far-Right is bridged not by shuffling round the horseshoe but by a simple sidestep. Mahler was born in 1936 to a Nazi dentist why were so many Nazis dentists? in Haynau in Lower Silesia, a town now called Chojnow in southwestern Poland. Devastated by the fall of the Third Reich, in 1949 his father took his own life and probably attempted to poison his three sons (Mahlers older brother, Klaus, prevented them from taking the suspicious tablets). As an adult, Mahler became a lawyer and a leading exponent of the trend to cast Western capitalism as the continuation of Nazism. For him, bloodshed was a means of purging the crimes of the older generation in the fires of revolutionary fervour. He became a key figure in the Baader-Meinhof gang, which was responsible for 34 murders and some of the most spectacular terrorist atrocities in post-war history. Inevitably, theirs was a virulent Israelophobia. Mahler underwent terrorist training in Jordan with the Palestinian faction Fatah, which now rules in Ramallah. He also represented an activist shot by German police while protesting a visit from Irans Shah in 1967. Progressives sided with the exiled Ayatollah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1970, Mahler was arrested carrying a loaded pistol while wearing a wig and false beard. In prison, he renounced violence, but in the coming years embraced neo-Nazism, envisioning fascism as a means to fulfil the aims of the hard Left: the defeat of American Jewish capitalism. The Holocaust, he now said, was the actions of God, not those of humans. He performed a Sieg Heil in front of a Jewish journalist and claimed that Hitler was the saviour of the German people. Mahler also praised the 9/11 attacks. In 2005, he accepted an invitation by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to an international conference promoting Holocaust denial. Mahlers pathetic demise may have gone largely unmourned, but it did not represent the death of his spirit. In this age of radicalism, the Horst Mahler complex is more of a threat to the West than ever before. 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. Aug. 13LETCHER, S.D. A Letcher man is facing multiple felony charges in Sanborn County after allegedly stealing a family member's truck, forging checks and burglarizing homes of his family. Demetrius Van Walleghen, 26, was arrested in Mitchell on July 14 following a series of alleged crimes that began earlier that week. On July 11, a man reported that a 2011 Dodge Ram was stolen from a garage on the family farm. The garage door was found open, and it is believed that Demetrius entered the home, took the keys and drove away with the truck. Authorities allege that after taking the vehicle, Van Walleghen went to the First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) in Mitchell on July 14 and attempted to cash a forged check for $4,100. Although the bank initially issued him a check, the forgery was discovered shortly after he left, and the transaction was canceled before any money was paid out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later that day, Demetrius traveled to Sioux Falls and attempted a similar fraudulent transaction using a forged check from another family member. That attempt was also stopped. Subsequent investigation revealed that Demetrius had entered the homes of his family in Sanborn County without permission and had taken blank checks and credit cards. He returned to the same FNBO branch in Mitchell later that day and attempted another transaction using a forged check. This time, bank staff recognized him and contacted law enforcement. Demetrius was taken into custody on site. During his arrest, officers identified the red Dodge pickup he was driving as the same 2011 Dodge Ram reported stolen. The vehicle's VIN matched the one reported in the initial theft. Demetrius Van Walleghen faces four felony charges in Sanborn County: second-degree burglary, a Class 3 felony; third-degree burglary, a Class 5 felony; grand theft involving an amount more than $2,500 but less than $5,000, a Class 5 felony; and grand theft involving an amount more than $1,000 but less than $2,500, a Class 6 felony. He also faces a Class 1 misdemeanor for obstruction in Davison County. At the time of these alleged offenses, Demetrius was out on a $500 personal recognizance bond related to the Davison County case. He is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 14 in Davison County and on Aug. 25 in Sanborn County. To the editor: U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright is intending to review and potentially alter the nations next climate science report ("Energy secretary says Trump administration may alter past National Climate Assessments," Aug. 7). Hes already removed the climate assessments from the government websites. He has accused the previous reviews (even the ones made during the first Trump administration) as being politically biased. Just wondering if Wright has actually looked outdoors recently or at least kept abreast of the weather reports. Has he not seen the spate of unprecedented tornadoes razing towns and communities? Or witnessed the deadly floods throughout the country? Or the wildfires from hell in the West? Or the unbearable heat waves hitting the Northeast? Or the approaching hurricanes that signal widespread death and destruction on the way? It is clear that Wright is on a leash, eager to do the bidding of his master old Drill, Baby, Drill! His stated intentions, as well as his removal of the climate assessments from years past from governmental websites, make him complicit in the disaster that is to come. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lanore Pearlman, Claremont ... To the editor: I see that Wright, previously the CEO of a company that did fracking, says that the government climate reports have been politically driven and are not accepted by "a credible economist or scientist." I am sure he is right that some economists do not wish to contemplate the possibility of climate change, but I would challenge him as to what the majority scientific opinion might be. Hundreds of scientists have studied the issue. Most published articles note that change is occurring. The evidence is everywhere: shrinking glaciers in every part of the globe, shrinking polar and Greenland ice sheets, the melting of the Russian tundra, bleaching coral reefs, longer, hotter summers, disruption of rain patterns, even the opening of the Northwest Passage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The actual debate appears to be whether human activity is causing it. In other words, conservatives do not believe we can stop the process. Erica Hahn, Monrovia ... To the editor: Wrights changes might misinform some, but if our extreme weather-related events continue at their enhanced pace, eventually the public will demand action. Those events are devastating and deadly to the affected population and the economic damage is astounding. I find it disingenuous and devious that the Energy secretary is considering changes to previous scientific-based reports. Going back to scrub past reports wont change the facts that our climate has changed and fossil fuel emissions are exacerbating this change. Jonathan Light, Laguna Niguel This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Results are now out for A-level students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, after they were released at 08:00 BST on Thursday morning. Here is your guide to this year's results, appeals and resits. What are the 2025 A-level grade boundaries? Each exam is graded on a scale from A* to E. Grade boundaries show the minimum number of marks you need for each grade. They are decided by assessment specialists at each exam board every year, and are only published once results day arrives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some exam boards, like AQA, have their old grade boundaries for previous years' exams published on their website. How can I appeal against A-level results? If you do not think your grade is right, you should first talk to your school or college. It will contact the exam board on your behalf and ask for your marks to be reviewed. If you still think you have been unfairly graded after a review, you can ask your school or college to appeal. The exam board will consider whether a correction is needed. If you are still not satisfied, you can request a review from the exams regulator Ofqual. What if I don't get the A-level grades I need for university or college? If you only just miss out on the grades you need to get on to a university or college course, the admissions office might accept you anyway or offer you a place on a different course. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You could also try applying for a different place through the clearing process - see more details below. It may also be possible to resit some or all of your exams. Talk to your school or college if you want to explore this route. Resits will take place in May or June 2026. What is Ucas university clearing? The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas) runs a clearing process matching students with university and college courses which still have spaces. Students can use it if they: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fail to achieve the grades for their conditional offer Fail to receive any offers they want to accept Decide after 30 June to apply for university Achieve better grades than expected and want to change universities Clearing opens on 5 July and closes on 20 October. Universities make an offer to a student to join a course based on qualifications and grades or the Ucas tariff points system. Each A-level grade is worth a certain number of Ucas points. For example, an A* is worth 56 points and a D is worth 24 points. Many students decide not to go to university and start an apprenticeship or go straight into work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Others take a gap year so they have more time to decide what to do next. When is results day in Scotland? Scotland has a different qualification system. Students take Highers instead of A-levels. Results day in Scotland is on Tuesday 5 August. Over the past two decades, Americans have been subject to one revelation after another of how little privacy we actually have, with both government and industry engaging in varying degrees of surveillance. This week, the Institute for Justice (I.J.), a public-interest law firm, announced the Plate Privacy Project"a nationwide campaign to push back against the arbitrary and unrestrained use of automatic license plate reader (ALPR) cameras in thousands of American communities," per an I.J. press release. While they may sound like the stuff of science fiction, ALPRs are very real and increasingly common. "These systems are a combination of high-speed cameras and optical character recognition technology that can identify license plates and turn them into machine-readable text," according to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF). Cameras can be mounted on poles at traffic stops or just along the roadside, while mobile versions can be affixed to police cars. Once captured, all information is uploaded to a central database "along with the time, date, and GPS coordinates." I.J. notes that ALPRs "can scan up to 2,000 plates per minute, essentially guaranteeing every vehicle is captured." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Unlike red-light cameras or speed cameras that are triggered by specific violations, these cameras 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," I.J. adds. "Once that happens, officials can search the database for any vehicle they wish, all without a warrant. And 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." The project, I.J. pledges, "will propose model legislation in state legislatures to protect against warrantless ALPR surveillance, partner with local grassroots activists to help them resist the use of these cameras in their communities, and continue fighting in the courts to strengthen the Fourth Amendment's protections against this new form of warrantless surveillance. Additionally, the project's website will provide reliable data for people to learn about the scope of ALPR surveillance in their own community." There is reason to be concerned. "These tools are now relatively commonplace in policing," according to a 2024 Congressional Research Service report. "According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics' 2020 Law Enforcement Management and Administrative Statistics Survey, larger law enforcement offices were more likely to use ALPR technology than smaller offices; nearly 90% of sheriffs' offices with 500 or more sworn deputies reported using the technology, and of police departments serving over 1 million residents, 100% used ALPRs." This ubiquitous surveillance has dangerous consequences. In August 2020, Colorado police officers pulled over and arrested Brittney Gilliameven handcuffing her daughter and nieces, who were also in the car, and forcing them to lie face down on the pavementafter an ALPR caught her license plate and flagged it as a stolen vehicle. Officers later released her after they realized Gilliam's SUV had Colorado plates, while the stolen vehicle in question was a motorcycle with a Montana tag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just within the past couple of years, license plate surveillance has grown. Last year, Sacramento, California, officials discovered the sheriff's office was routinely sharing license plate information with agencies in other statesdespite being prohibited by state law. Illinois similarly bars sharing ALPR data with immigration enforcement authorities, yet records suggest U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may have gained access to cameras in over 5,000 communities nationwide. Illinois uses ALPR systems from Flock Safety, a private company with over 40,000 cameras across the country. "Flock is building a giant camera network that records people's comings and goings across the nation, and then makes that data available for search by any of its law enforcement customers," according to the American Civil Liberties Union. "Every new customer that buys and installs the company's cameras extends Flock's network, contributing to the creation of a centralized mass surveillance system of Orwellian scope." One of Flock's clients is the city of Norfolk, Virginia, which installed 172 ALPRs in 2023. Last year, I.J. sued the city and its police department in federal court, saying that using or accessing its ALPR system constitutes an unlawful search prohibited by the Fourth Amendment. "Nothing in the Flock Agreement or the [Norfolk Police Department]'s policy requires officers to establish probable cause or obtain a warrant to access the data," per the lawsuit. "And, in practice, officers commonly do access the data without probable cause or a warrant." "In Norfolk, no one can escape the government's 172 unblinking eyes," the lawsuit cautioned. "And the City's dragnet is only expanding: On September 24, 2024, the Chief of Police announced plans to acquire 65 more cameras in the future." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, Chief Judge Mark S. Davis of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia denied the city's motion to dismiss, allowing I.J.'s lawsuit to proceed. With the Plate Privacy Project, I.J. now intends to take that success further. Thankfully, there is reason to believe the American people may be on I.J.'s side: As Reason's Jacob Sullum wrote this week, multiple towns around the country have recently terminated ALPR contracts with Flock Safety after community backlash. The post Warrantless Use of License Plate Reader Cameras Is Unconstitutional appeared first on Reason.com. GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) A man is suffering from life-threatening injuries as a result of a crash that took place early Thursday morning, according to the Greensboro Police Department. The crash occurred at around 12:32 a.m. on Thursday between South Elm-Eugene Street and Freeman Mill Road Investigators say that a man driving a Honda Civic unsuccessfully tried to pass another car on I-40 and ran off the road, crashing into multiple guardrails before coming to a stop in the middle of the interstate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man driving the Honda Civic suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash and was taken to a local hospital. The Greensboro Police Departments Crash Reconstruction Unit is investigating the crash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP. The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. On a prominent ridge in the center of Toronto stands a big stone castle. Built in the early 20th century, Casa Loma is now a popular venue for weddings and parties. The castle is flanked by some of the citys priciest domestic real estate. It is not, in short, the kind of site that usually goes unpoliced. On May 27, Casa Loma was booked for a fundraiser by the Abraham Global Peace Initiative, a pro-Israel advocacy group. The gathering was to be addressed by Gilad Erdan, a former Israeli ambassador to the United Nations and United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A crowd of hundreds formed opposite the castle. They temporarily overwhelmed police lines, closing the street to the castle entrance. Protesters accosted and insulted individual attendees. One attendee, a former Canadian senator now in his 90s, told me about being pushed and jostled as police looked on. Eventually, two arrests were made, one for assaulting a police officer and the other for assaulting an attendee. Last year, the city of Toronto averaged more than one anti-Jewish incident a day, accounting for 40 percent of all reported hate crimes in Canadas largest city. Jewish neighborhoods, Jewish hospitals, and Jewish places of worship have been the scenes of demonstrations by masked persons bearing flags and chanting hostile slogans. Gunmen fired shots at a Toronto Jewish girls school on three nights last year. A synagogue in Montreal was attacked with firebombs in late 2024. On Saturday, an assailant beat a Jewish man in a Montreal park in front of his children. [David Frum: There is no right to bully and harass] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Canadian governmentsfederal, provincial, municipalof course want to stop the violence. But their inescapable (if often unsayable) dilemma is that many of those same governments depend on voters who are sympathetic to the motives of the violent. Canadian authorities of all kinds have become frightened of important elements in their own population. Just this week, the Toronto International Film Festival withdrew its invitation to a Canadian film about the invasion of southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The festivals statement cited legal concerns, including the fear that by incorporating footage that Hamas fighters filmed of their atrocities without legal clearance, the film violated Hamass copyright. (In polite Canada, it seems that even genocidal terrorists retain their intellectual-property claims.) Another and more plausible motive cited by the festival: fear of potential threat of significant disruption. A small group of anti-Israel protesters invaded the festivals gala opening in 2024. The legal violations have been larger and more flagrant this year. All of this forms the backdrop necessary to understand why the Canadian government has joined the British and French governments in their intention to recognize a Palestinian state. The plan began as a French diplomatic initiative. In July, France and Saudi Arabia co-chaired a United Nations conference on the two-state solution. Days before the conference began, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that his nation would recognize a Palestinian state in September. The French initiative was almost immediately seconded by the British government. Canada quickly followed. This week, Australia added its weight to the group. Anti-Jewish violence has been even more pervasive and aggressive in Australia than in Canada, including the torching of a Sydney day-care center in January. (Germany declined to join the French initiative but imposed a limited arms embargo on Israel.) All four governments assert that their plan offers no concessions to Hamas. All four insist that a hypothetical Palestinian state must be disarmed, must exclude Hamas from any role in governance, must renounce terrorism and incitement, and must accept Israels right to exist. Those conditions often got omitted in media retellings, but they are included in all the communiques with heavy emphasis. As Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters on July 30: Canada reiterates that Hamas must immediately release all hostages taken in the horrific terrorist attack of October 7, that Hamas must disarm, and that Hamas must play no role in the future governance of Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All those musts make these plans impossible to achieve, from the outset. How do the French, British, Canadian, and Australian governments imagine them being enforced, and by whom? Even now, after all this devastation, Hamas remains the most potent force in Palestinian politics. A May survey by a Palestinian research group, conducted in cooperation with the Netherland Representative Office in Ramallah, reported that an overwhelming majority of Palestinians reject the idea that Hamass disarmament is a path to ending the war in Gaza, and a plurality said they would vote for a Hamas-led government. Observers might question the findings from Gaza, where Hamas can still intimidate respondents, but those in the West Bank also rejected the conditions of France, Britain, Canada, and Australia. What does recognition mean anyway? Of UN member states, 147 already recognize a state of Palestine, including the economic superpowers China and India; regional giants such as Brazil, Indonesia, and Nigeria; and the European Union member states of Poland, Romania, Slovenia, and Sweden. About half of those recognitions date back to 1988, when Yasser Arafat proclaimed Palestinian independence from his exile in Algiers after the Israeli military drove Arafats organization out of the territory it had occupied in Lebanon. Such diplomatic niceties do not alter realities. States are defined by control of territory and population. In that technical sense, Hamas in Gaza has proved itself to be more like a state than has the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank. Even the mighty United States learned that lesson the hard way over the 22 years from 1949 to 1971, when Washington pretended that the Nationalist regime headquartered in Taipei constituted the legitimate government of mainland China. Macron, Carney, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are savvy, centrist politicians. All regard themselves as strong friends of Israel. Starmer in particular has fought hard to purge his Labour Party of the anti-Semitic elements to whom the door was opened by his predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn. If theyre investing their prestige in a seemingly futile gesture, they must have good reason. They do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All four men lead political coalitions that are fast turning against Israel. Pressure is building on the leaders to vent their supporters anger, and embracing the French initiative creates a useful appearance of action. The Canadian example is particularly stark. Prime Minister Carney has pivoted in many ways from the progressive record of his predecessor, Justin Trudeau. He canceled an increase in the capital-gains tax that Trudeau had scheduled. He dropped from the cabinet a housing minister who had championed a major government-led building program. (The program remains, but under leadership less beholden to activists.) Carney has committed to a major expansion of the Canadian energy sector after almost a decade of dissension between energy producers and Ottawa. The new Carney government is also increasing military spending. Many on the Canadian left feel betrayed and frustrated. Recognizing a Palestinian state is a concession that may appease progressives irked by Carneys other moves toward the political center. But appeasement will not work. In the Middle East, the initiative by France, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom has already pushed the region away from stability, not toward it. Cease-fire talks with Hamas fell apart on the day that Macron declared his intent to recognize a Palestinian state, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Hamas then released harrowing photographs of starved Israeli hostages, one shown digging his own grave. Embarrassed pro-recognition leaders had to deliver a new round of condemnations of Hamas at the very moment they were trying to pressure Israel to abandon its fight against Hamas. Nor does the promise of Palestinian recognition seem to be buying the four leaders the domestic quiet they had hoped for. On Sunday, British police arrested more than 500 people for demonstrating in support of a pro-Palestine group proscribed because of its acts of violence against British military installations. Those arrests amounted to the largest one-day total in the U.K. in a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hours before Prime Minister Albaneses statement promising recognition, some 90,000 pro-Palestinian demonstrators blocked traffic on Sydney Harbour Bridge. Their organizers issued four demandsrecognition was not one of them. What we marched for on Sunday, and what weve been protesting for two years, is not recognition of a non-existent Palestinian state that Israel is in the process of wiping out, a group leader told CNN. What we are demanding is that the Australian government sanction Israel and stop the two-way arms trade with Israel. On August 6, 60 anti-Israel protesters mobbed the private residence of former Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, banging pots and projecting messages onto her Montreal dwellingan action especially provocative because Canadian cabinet ministers are not normally protected by personal security detachments. The present foreign minister, Anita Anand, had to close her constituency office in Oakville, a suburb of Toronto, because of threats to the staff who worked there. [From the December 2024 issue: My hope for Palestine] The issue for protesters is Israel, not Palestine. During the Syrian civil war, more than 3,000 Palestinian refugees in the country were killed by Syrian government forces, hundreds of them by torture. Nobody blocked the Sydney Harbour Bridge over that. Its Israels standing as a Western-style state that energizes the movement against it and that is unlikely to change no matter what shifts in protocol Western governments adopt. After all, on October 6, 2023, Gaza was functionally a Palestinian state living alongside Israel. If the pro-Palestinian groups in the West had valued that status, they should have reacted to October 7 with horror, if nothing else for the existential threat that the attacks posed to any Palestinian state-building project. Instead, many in the pro-Palestinian diasporaand even at the highest levels of Palestinian official lifeapplauded the terror attacks with jubilant anti-Jewish enthusiasm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chants of from the river to the sea heard at these events reveal something important about the pro-Palestinian movement in the democratic West. The slogan expresses an all-or-nothing fantasy: either the thrilling overthrow of settler colonialism in all the land of Palestine, or else the glorious martyrdom of the noble resistance. Its not at all clear that ordinary Palestinians actually living in the region feel the same way. The exact numbers fluctuate widely depending on how the question is framed, but at least a significant minorityand possibly a pluralityof Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza would accept coexistence with Israel if that acceptance brought some kind of state of their own. But their supporters living in the West can disregard such trade-offs. They can exult in the purity of passion and still enjoy a comfortable life in a capitalist democracy. These are the people that Albanese, Carney, Macron, and Starmer are trying so desperately to satisfy. They are unlikely to succeed. The Hamas terror attacks of October 7 provoked a war of fearsome scale. Almost two years later, the region is almost unrecognizable. Tens of thousands have been killed, and much of Gaza laid to ruin. Almost every known leader of Hamas is dead. Hezbollah has been broken as a military force. The Assad regime in Syria has been toppled and replaced. The United States directly struck Iran, and the Iranian nuclear program seems to have been pushed years backward, if not destroyed altogether. In this world upended, the creative minds of Western diplomacy have concluded that the best way forward is to revert to the Oslo peace process of 30 years ago. The Oslo process ended when the Palestinian leadership walked away from President Bill Clintons best and final offer without making a counterofferand gambled everything on the merciless terrorist violence of the Second Intifada. Now here we are again, after another failed Palestinian terror campaign, and there is only one idea energizing Western foreign ministries: That thing that failed before? Lets try it one more time. But this time, the hope is not to bring peace to the Middle East. They hope instead to bring peace to their own streets. The undertaking is a testament either to human perseverance, or to the eternal bureaucratic faith in peace through fog. Article originally published at The Atlantic Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has nominated the country's current Minister of Social Affairs and Labour, Inga Ruginiene, as prime minister and tasked her with forming a government. The 44-year-old Social Democrat's candidacy must now be approved by parliament. She will then be able to form her Cabinet, which will then face another vote in parliament. Ruginiene was proposed by her party as the successor to Gintautas Paluckas, who resigned in early August following allegations of dubious business dealings and conflicts of interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was first elected to parliament last autumn and then appointed minister of social affairs and labour. Prior to that, she had been the chair of the Lithuanian Trade Union Confederation for six years. Critics accuse Ruginiene of lacking political experience. However, more questions have been raised about her relatives living in Russia and her frequent visits to that country. By her own account she continued to travel to Russia even after the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Another part of her family comes from Ukraine, where she also spent her summers as a child, she said. That is why she spent a lot of time in a Russian-speaking environment as a child and therefore may not speak perfect Lithuanian. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nauseda said on Thursday that the information available so far gives reason to believe that Ruginiene will "successfully perform" the duties of head of government. However, there are certain details in her biography that require "more attention," he told a Lithuanian broadcaster. It is still unclear whether the Social Democrats and Ruginiene will continue the centre-left three-party coalition that has ruled Lithuania until now. Recently, there have been signs that a change in coalition partners might be in prospect. Lithuania is one of Ukraine's most vocal supporters on the international stage. Since Congress passed legislation this year imposing new work requirements for some Medicaid recipients, The Maine Monitor has heard from readers who were concerned and confused about whether their insurance coverage would change. None of them had heard anything from the federal government about their status, although one received an email press release from the Social Security Administration that said it was celebrating the passage of the One Big, Beautiful Bill, a landmark piece of legislation that delivers long-awaited tax relief to millions of older Americans. We decided to take three of their stories to health policy experts for insight. The experts could not provide definitive answers on any individuals eligibility, but rather gave a general overview of their understanding of the new rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are the three profiles we collected: Family 1 A 46-year-old woman who qualifies for Medicaid, which covers her psychiatrist, physician, counselor, medications and physical therapy related to her genetic disorder. She also qualifies for Medicare and Social Security Disability Insurance. She has not worked since a 2023 relapse. She receives $1,187 a month from disability, which is her only income. Family 2 A 74-year-old woman who is raising her 15-year-old grandson, both of whom are on Medicaid. She also qualifies for Medicare and Social Security Disability Insurance. She receives supplemental insurance from Medicaid through the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program. Her grandson is fully covered by Medicaid and receives counseling, medication management, case management and 3 medications. Their household income is $1,400 a month in social security and $400 from a pension. They also receive SNAP benefits. Family 3 A 38-year-old woman and her 13-year-old daughter are both on Medicaid. The mother previously made about $12,000 a year when she worked, but she is currently in school with assistance from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. Her brother, who is 36, also is on Medicaid. He also qualifies for Social Security Disability Insurance due to a diagnosis of autism. He hasnt worked since 2023. His income is $1,283 a month, from disability. All three receive SNAP benefits. Here is what the experts said: Robin Rudowitz, vice president at KFF, a nonprofit health policy research organization, and director of the Program on Medicaid and the Uninsured, said many of these individuals likely would not be subject to the new work requirements because they are also on Medicare, over 65 or a low-income parent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new work requirements only apply to people in the Medicaid expansion population. States that opted into Medicaid expansion as part of the Affordable Care Act extended eligibility to include nearly all adults with incomes up to 138 percent of the federal poverty line ($21,597 for an individual this year), increasing those who are eligible beyond the mandatory groups that include low-income families, qualified pregnant women and children, and individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income. Nearly 400,000 Mainers are covered by MaineCare, the states version of Medicaid, and about 90,000 Mainers of them are in the expansion group. Under the new work requirements, adults ages 19-64 who got coverage as part of the Medicaid expansion must log 80 hours a month of work, volunteering or half-time educational programs. The state has estimated the new rules will result in 31,000 Mainers disenrolling due to documentation hurdles and the unpredictable or seasonal nature of Maines heritage industries. The requirements will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2027. There are exemptions to the work requirements for parents of children 13 and younger, those who are pregnant or postpartum, and the medically frail. Medically frail includes people with physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities, substance use disorder, a "disabling" mental disorder and serious or complex medical conditions, according to KFF. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Patrick Connolly, a family physician at Martins Point and co-chair of the Maine Medical Association legislative committee, agreed that most of the people The Monitor spoke to likely would not be subject to additional work requirements. But their confusion about their coverage still presents a barrier to care, he said. You have these three case scenarios and they're worried that they might lose their health care, Connolly said. That worry in and of itself presents a barrier: Im not sure I want to go to the doctor (because) I may not be covered. Medicaid applications are already cumbersome so the more complicated the government makes it, the more likely people are to fall through the cracks, he said. In addition, the legislation passed by Congress is estimated to cut $186 billion from SNAP funding through 2034. People already are having to choose between eating and taking their medicine, Connolly said. The result will be patients will wait longer to visit their doctors, or wont go at all, and will end up in the emergency department, he said. Maine already has among the highest rates of emergency department visits in the country. If you put up artificial barriers the barriers of lack of coverage or the worry of lack of coverage people are going to be sicker and were going to spend more in the long run because the complications cost way more to treat than the problems upfront, Connolly said. It's almost Friday folks, but it's going to be a busy weekend for us here at Weather.com where we'll be tracking and bringing you the very latest on Tropical Storm Erin. It's expected to be a major hurricane by this weekend and that could have implications for those of you on the East Coast. You can get the very latest on Erin's path and the potential impacts here. Check out the other major stories we kept an eye on throughout the day Thursday: (03:15 p.m. EDT) Weather Around The World This photo comes out of Flyingdales, United Kingdom, where a wildfire has broken out in the North York Moors National Park. The fire began on Monday night near the RAF Flyingdales base and is expected to burn for days to come. The blaze is currently contained within three square miles. (02:53 p.m. EDT) Total Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse Mark your calendars, because in a couple of weeks, the moon will be trading its usual silver glow for fiery red as an epic blood moon total lunar eclipse lights up the night sky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The catch? Most of the U.S. wont be able to see it. Dedicated skywatchers will need to buy a ticket to places like India, China, Russia, Australia or Africa ahead of the Sept. 7 event. There is one teeny U.S. destination that may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse. Weve got it all mapped out here. (02:39 p.m. EDT) Hurricane Hunters On The Move From senior writer Chris DeWeese: Tropical Storm Erin is moving west, and forecasts continue to suggest it will likely become a major hurricane over the next couple of days. Well soon know much more detailed information about this storm, thanks to the NOAA Hurricane Hunters, which are scheduled to fly into the storm tonight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On social media, the Hurricane Hunters shared photos from the island of St. Croix, the point from which their team will take off. (02:24 p.m. EDT) Thunderstorms Put On Lightning Show Over Phoenix Monsoon storms put on a spectacular lightning show over central Phoenix last night. Residents shared photos and video on social media as thunder and rain spread across the region. Last nights storms came after Phoenix hit a high of 109 degrees on Wednesday. Senior digital meteorologist Jonathan Belles says today and Friday will be more active monsoon days, but drier and warmer conditions will begin to return by early next week. (02:10 p.m. EDT) Erin Raises Rip Current Concerns Tropical Storm Erin could reach hurricane strength as soon as tomorrow. Beachgoers from Florida to the Northeast region will need to be on alert because high surf churned up by Erin will contribute to a dangerous rip current threat next week. Do you know how to spot a rip current or what to do if you get caught in one? We have everything you need to know right here. (01:58 p.m. EDT) Manchester City FC Reveals Weather-Related Kit From content writer Patrick Griffin: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Manchester City is embracing the weather with their newest uniform, or kit as they say across the pond. The latest jersey features a raindrop graphic on the front, with vibrant neon green accents across the neck, shoulders and sides. According to the club, the new kit is a subtle nod to their home, carrying a message from Manchester: "Even when it rains, we shine." The team worked with PUMA on the release. Marco Mueller, PUMA's Senior Director of Product Line Management Teamsport Apparel, says this kit creates "a truly unique kit that does things a little different." The city of Manchester sees about 166 rainy days a year on average. Yearly rain totals average out to nearly 43 inches. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mueller added, "We decided to design a kit that not only embraces the rainy Manchester weather but also the fact the fans stick by the team Rain or Shine. (01:46 p.m. EDT) Tracking Erin From senior writer Chris DeWeese: Wondering where Tropical Storm Erin is at this very moment? Dont sleep on our dedicated tracking page, which features the latest updated satellite maps, spaghetti models, ocean warmth and wind shear information. Its a quick and easy way to stay up to date with just a simple glance. (01:29 p.m. EDT) New Barriers Prevent The Worst In Juneau, Alaska Some good news out of Juneau, Alaska, today after residents were urged to evacuate ahead of record flooding from the glacial outburst of the Mendenhall Glacier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New sandbag-style barriers held back the flooding and prevented widespread damage. The barriers are not without controversy however, read more about that. (01:13 p.m. EDT) Will Calmer Winds Today Help Wildfire Fight In Europe? Weeks of intense heat waves have fueled wildfires across southern Europe, with deadly impacts in Spain, Turkey and Albania. Today, fire crews in Greece, Spain and Portugal are hoping a drop in wind speeds will help them beat back the fires. Watch how residents of a port city in Greece risked their lives to save their pets and farm animals. (01:00 p.m. EDT) Earthquake Shakes North Carolina A low-magnitude earthquake of 2.7 shook Polk County, North Carolina, just north of the South Carolina state line just after 11 a.m. EDT. The quakes epicenter was near Columbus, North Carolina, according to the USGS. On social media, a resident of Fletcher, North Carolina, which is located about 30 miles northwest of Mill Spring, said that some rumbling preceded it then it felt like something hit the house. Residents of towns in both North and South Carolina took to social media to say that theyd felt the quake. At this point, no damage or injuries have been reported. You can now save a life and get tickets to see the Pirates. Vitalant and the Pittsburgh Pirates are finishing their 29th-annual blood drive series this August with events at PNC Park and locations across western Pennsylvania. Donors will receive a voucher for two tickets to a Pirates home game during the 2025 season. The blood drives will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 26-27 at PNC Park, as well as at partner locations throughout the region. Donors of all blood types are encouraged to participate, particularly those with type O blood and platelet donors, who are in high demand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each donation has the potential to save someones life right here in our community, said Maya Santana, Vitalant communications manager. Vitalant is one of the nations largest nonprofit blood and biotherapies healthcare organizations, providing hospitals and patients across the U.S. with a safe blood supply and specialized services. Donors who participate in the blood drives between Aug. 1-28 will also receive a $10 gift card and be entered to win one of three $10,000 gift cards through the Summer Gas Giveaway. To qualify for the giveaway, donors must be enrolled in the Donor Rewards Program. Appointments for the blood drives can be scheduled by visiting Vitalant.org/Pirates, calling 877-25-VITAL or using the Vitalant app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended to ensure a smooth process. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) On August 13, at the Indiana State Fair, Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith and Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Director Don Lamb presented 95 farming families with a Hoosier Homestead Award in recognition of their commitment to Indiana agriculture. Indianas economy and heritage is built upon agriculture, said Lt. Gov. Beckwith, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. It is an honor to be able to recognize these farming families and celebrate their enduring legacy. Predicted record crop hurts corn farmers The ISDA says to be named a Hoosier Homestead, farms must be owned by the same family for more than 100 consecutive years and consist of more than 20 acres. If less than 20 acres, the farm must produce more than $1,000 of agricultural products per year. Indiana farms may qualify for three honors: Centennial Award for 100 years of ownership, Sesquicentennial Award for 150 years of ownership and the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of ownership. I am continually inspired by the long-established farming families that are recognized during the Hoosier Homestead ceremonies, said Don Lamb, Director of the Indiana State Department of Ag. I personally know the amount of commitment and dedication needed to keep a farm in the family for 100 years or more. I thank each one for their devotion to the agriculture industry and their loyalty to the state of Indiana. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hoosiers for the Corridor voices support for highly-debated highway Officials say during the ceremonies, eight Indiana farms received the Bicentennial Award for 200 years of continuous ownership, and in southwestern Indiana that was the Michael B. McConnell family from Gibson County. Below is a list of the Hoosier Homestead Award recipients honored during the summer 2025 ceremony: County Farm Award Dubois Hochgesang 1905 Centennial Dubois Neukam 1913 Centennial Dubois Verkamp 1871 Centennial and Sesquicentennial Gibson Michael B. McConnell 1819 Bicentennial Gibson Ballard-Reinbrecht 1839 Centennial and Sesquicentennial Gibson Unfried 1906 Centennial Perry Epple 1907 Centennial Perry Hanloh Boerste LaGrange 1858 Centennial and Sesquicentennial Pike Meyer 1895 Centennial Posey Reibel 1919 Centennial Posey Ritzert 1875 Centennial and Sesquicentennial Spencer Hurm 1915 Centennial Warrick Deller 1923 Centennial Eyewitness News. Everywhere you are. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). Earlier this month, Channel 11 told you about how $10,000 worth of equipment was stolen from the Oakdale Hose Company. Now, the department is offering a $2,000 reward for the equipments return or the thiefs apprehension and conviction. Oakdale officials posted on social media that the cost to replace their equipment Motorola all-band portable radios would be $14,000. The department was ready to offer a $1,000 reward for the stolen equipment, but a donation from Allegheny County Councilman Patrick Catena allowed them to double it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The devices stolen were an APX 8000 serial No. 579CWZ4881 and an APX 6000 serial No. 756CYH0908. People who live on these roads and have cameras are asked to check their video: Winslow Drive Fayette Avenue Vincennes Avenue Hastings Avenue Cottonwood Drive 1st, 2nd and 3rd Streets Anyone with information is told to call Oakdale police at 911 or 412-473-3056 or send a Facebook message to Oakdale Hose Company. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW MCLEAN COUNTY, Ill. (WMBD) The McLean County Sheriffs Office will be joining other agencies to help combat human trafficking across the state of Illinois. The sheriffs office will join the Illinois State Police, the Decatur Police Department and the Howard G. Buffett Foundation to create the Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group, an Illinois State Police news release said. The group will partner with local and state partners to fight human trafficking while working with community groups to provide support to those who have been trafficked. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Human trafficking occurs not just globally, but locally, and it is critical law enforcement at all levels work together, said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. The Illinois Trafficking Enforcement Group enables state and local law enforcement to literally work side by side, while coordinating with our federal partners, to stop this deplorable crime. The group will be headquartered at the Investigative Support Operations Center in Decatur. The partnership with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation will help guarantee the group has cutting-edge technology to help combat human trafficking. Many communities do not think human trafficking is happening where they live, but our work has shown that the more resources are dedicated to this issue, the more the crime is uncovered and disrupted, Howard G. Buffett, Chairman and CEO of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, said. With todays investment, Illinois becomes the seventh state with a dedicated task force. McLean County Sheriff Matt Lane said he was honored to partner with the group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Together, were committed to launching an aggressive campaign combating human trafficking and protecting victims through coordinated enforcement efforts, Lane said. The group will also investigate large-scale human trafficking conspiracy operations and work to dismantle the organizations behind them, the news release 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. ESPANOLA, N.M. (KRQE) Crime and drugs have gotten so bad in Espanola that officers cant keep up and are overwhelmed. Crime is so bad, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, hoping to bring some relief. Espanola has struggled with drugs and crime for years. The thing about Espanola, its been generational. Its not a secret that weve been dealing with drug-related crimes, said Chief Mizel Garcia, Espanola Police Department. Grant County deputy accused of timecard fraud But now, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said its gotten so bad that police are overwhelmed. On Wednesday, the governor declared a state of emergency for the city of Espanola and the surrounding pueblos. The drugs, if they dont take care of the drugs, the crime is gonna stay the way it is. They need to focus on that and take away that, said Joshua Archuleta, Espanola resident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor said Rio Arriba County currently has the highest overdose death rate in the state. She adds calls to police have more than doubled, and police dispatches to businesses have quadrupled over the past two years. The county, city, and pueblos reached out, and the governor said they needed help. Its challenging in Espanola city of 10,500, Im at about 30 officers, so we have to do a lot more with what we have, said Garcia. The executive order will provide $750,000 in funding for law enforcement in Espanola, Santa Clara, Ohkay Owingeh, and Rio Arriba County. A lot of the time, funding or the resources are not available for us, so were really looking forward to meeting with the governors office and the other three entities to see how were gonna best utilize that funding, said Garcia. Unlike the executive order, the governor signed in Albuquerque, where the New Mexico National Guard was deployed to aid officers, no guard members will be sent to Espanola. Its still not known how the money will be spent. The governor said theyll work to identify specific resource gaps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Dayton Metro Library is hosting two programs to celebrate Black Business Month and honor local Black-owned businesses this August. Saturday, Aug. 23, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Main Library, Opportunity Center. Annual Growing Black Business Symposium. There will be a panel of small business experts who will offer guidance and resources for Black-owned businesses. There will be networking opportunities. Registration is required. Dayton Metro Library hosts Special Needs Family Information Roundtable Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saturday, Aug. 23, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., West Branch. Once Upon a Time: An Entrepreneurs Story. Local entrepreneurs will share the stories of their businesses. Registration is only required for people who want to participate as a speaker. To register or learn more, call the Librarys Ask Me Line at 937-463-2665 or visit the Dayton Metro Librarys website. Those who need a sign language interpreter, assistive device, language translation or accessibility services can call the Ask Me Line at the number above or visit the DMLs Ask Me Anything 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 WDTN.com. Dr. Christine Cauffields 38-year medical career has reached well beyond speaking to crowded ballrooms. But inside the Florida Blue conference center in Jacksonvilles Deerwood neighborhood, she summed up her stance on suicide in just a few words. A preventable public health crisis, said Dr. Cauffield, one we can all do something about. Cauffield is the CEO of LSF Health Systems in Jacksonville, which hosted the first-ever Zero Suicide Jax Summit, localizing a nationwide suicide prevention movement that started in 2012. It brought mental health experts around northeast Florida, across Florida and throughout the U.S. to share awareness and prevention resources with local leaders and business owners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She told Action News Jax that, in all her years of work to turn strugglers into survivors, many people just need someone to listen. These people will then report feeling relief that someone has seen them, noticed them and heard them, Dr. Cauffield said. This sense of relief is something that brought Florida senator Darryl Bouson (D - District 16) from Tampa to Jacksonville to share with the room. Ill never forget the day I asked for help, Bouson said, I had seen death as freedom, thought there was no other way out. Bouson says hes now been sober for more than 27 years. He shared his story of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction with Action News Jax, which he says suicidal thoughts almost cut short. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If I ever forget the pain of it, if I ever forget the disconnect of it, if I ever forget the darkness of it, then Im doomed to repeat it, said Bouson. The Florida Department of Healths most recent numbers on suicide rates around the state are from 2023. That year, the department says 14 in every 100,000 Floridians took their own life, a lower number than Duval Countys 16 in every 100,000 people. Action News Jax found, from the Florida Department of Healths numbers, that seven of our nine local northeast Florida counties had higher suicide rates that year than the state average. Putnam County didnt just have the highest local rate, but the 9th highest rate in Florida. Part of the goal of the Zero Summit Jax conference is to share mental health resources with Jacksonville-area business owners, including plaques with the number 988 inscribed onto them. 988 launched in 2022 as the three-digit nationwide suicide and crisis prevention hotline, which can receive texts and calls 24/7 to anyone in immediate need of help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Local and state lawmakers are calling on the federal government to do more to prepare communities for extreme weather. Officials gathered in Boyce Park on Wednesday to make their plea. Congresswoman Summer Lee criticized the Trump administration for its cuts to agencies like the National Weather Service and FEMA. These actions are not harmless. These actions leave us vulnerable, they leave us unprepared and they leave us unsafe. There will be deadly results for the actions that are taken, Lee said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She called on her congressional colleagues to restore federal funding, and she said she is launching an environmental justice caucus. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW A local student from Montgomery County is organizing a charity event called the Walk for Scholars at Triangle Park in Dayton on September 6th to raise funds for the Brooke Gates Project, which supports over 50 students in Liberia by providing them with access to basic education. The Brooke Gates Project, founded by Brooke Gates, is dedicated to helping students in Liberia afford their education. The initiative currently supports more than 50 students across nine schools in Liberia, ensuring they have the necessary funds to continue their studies. The upcoming Walk for Scholars event at Triangle Park in Dayton aims to raise money to keep these students in school and to show solidarity with them. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brooke Gates, the founder of The Brooke Gates Project, explained her motivation, saying, I just knew it would take a while if I wanted it to be good. She also expressed her excitement for the event, stating, Im excited for everybody to come out and support and for us to show the people who are also going to be doing the walk in Liberia that we support them here in Ohio. Brooke Gates, who is preparing for her first year of college, has dedicated the last six months to organizing the Walk for Scholars event. She hopes that the walk will not only raise the necessary funds to keep more than 50 students in school but also inspire others to help those in need. Gates highlighted the symbolic nature of the walk, explaining that it is meant to give participants a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by students in Liberia, who often walk an hour to school in extreme heat. The students in Liberia walk about an hour to school in 100-degree heat. So I was thinking, like for this, we could bring awareness to that and just walk 10 minutes if they can walk an hour to school, she said. For more information on how to participate in the Walk for Scholars event at Triangle Park in Dayton on September 6th, visit WHIO.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through the Brooke Gates Project, Brooke Gates is not only raising funds to support education for students in Liberia but also hopes to inspire others to help those in need. I hope that my story can encourage others to help and support people who are in need and underserved communities, Gates said. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] BLANDFORD, Mass. (WWLP) Residents of Blandford have expressed concerns about the safety risks of a proposed lithium-ion battery storage facility. The town administrator has stated that they will move forward with caution, guided by expert review, public input, and transparency. Several roads in Southwick closed due to flooding 22News viewers have voiced their concerns to our station since a town meeting was held with the developer, Mission Clean Energy, on Monday. They primarily revolve around safety risks, particularly fire hazards, and the towns capability to handle such emergencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the town administrator, Cristina Fererra, Mission Clean Energy plans to submit applications to the Blandford Conservation Commission by the end of September. In a statement, she says that she also shares the concerns of residents, citing the New York storage facilities that experienced massive fires within the last two years. She goes on to say in part, The Town intends to move forward with care, guided expert review, public input, and a commitment to transparency. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Its just one word but two leading Holocaust historians say it warps history. The Imperial War Museum (IWM) in London has refused to alter an information panel in its Holocaust Galleries after two leading historians criticised its wording as historically inaccurate. Describing the Nazi's 1935 Nuremberg race laws, the disputed caption reads: Under the provision of the law, a person was defined as Jewish based on how many observant Jewish grandparents they had, even if they were not personally Jewish themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The word observant triggered concerns from a retired academic visiting from New York last year. She wrote to the museum arguing the phrase was historically inaccurate, saying it must be changed. Announced on 15 September 1935 at a Nazi Party rally, the Nuremberg Laws turned Nazi racial ideology into law. They defined who counted as Jewish, stripped Jews of citizenship, and banned marriage or sexual relations between Jews and Aryans. Related 1935 Nuremberg Laws Racial Chart. The Nuremberg Laws established a basis for racial identification - Credit: US Holocaust Memorial Museum Speaking to The Guardian, the retired academic - who asked not to be named said she was extraordinarily impressed by the galleries overall, but then I came to the race laws, and I know that observant Jewish grandparents just made no sense. It disregards the vast majority of the Jewish population who are not observant." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added that the Nazis aimed to eradicate all Jews regardless of religious observance: This is such a misleading impression of the Nazi outlook that for me its reprehensible that it stays in the public domain. The academic then turned to two prominent Holocaust historians for comment. Christopher Browning, known for his work documenting the Final Solution, said: "The issue was not whether the grandparent was observant but whether his or her birth had been registered with the Jewish community." Timothy Snyder, historian of Nazi Germany and Eastern Europe, agreed: "It did not matter whether the grandparents were observant No one was saved from persecution, as the wording incorrectly implies, by having grandparents who were not observant." How have the Imperial War Museum responded? In a statement made to Euronews Culture, a spokesperson from the Imperial War Museum said it takes comments regarding our interpretation very seriously and acknowledged the sensitivities regarding this caption. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The museum noted that with history as complex and sensitive as the Holocaust, questions of interpretation and nuance will be raised by audiences from time to time, adding that it always investigates concerns thoroughly. The IWM stressed there was absolutely no suggestion across its Holocaust Galleries that the Nazis persecution of Jews was restricted to those who were religiously practising or their descendants. Rather, the caption in question was tied specifically to a 1935 diagrammatic poster associated with the Nuremberg Laws. The word observant, it said, referred in this particular case to people formally associated with Jewish religion in public records, such as birth and marriage certificates and civil registry documents. The statement explained the intention was to show how, despite believing Jewishness was biologically determined, the Nazis sometimes relied on religious affiliation in official records when categorising people unable to find any scientific - or any other - basis for their claims. The museum also pointed to nearby text making clear that many of those whom the laws identified as Jews had never identified as Jewish themselves and that this method of categorisation was never a meaningful or restrictive basis for Nazi persecution. The IWM said it was considering whether some further clarification should be added to the caption in consultation with external advisors, in line with our normal processes." Longmeadow Public Schools will host an information session for parents, caregivers and staff with local and federal law enforcement Thursday evening, a day after a librarian who worked at two middle schools in the district was arrested. Scott McGinley, 55, worked at the Glenbrook and Williams middle schools. He is charged with one count of distribution of child pornography and made an initial appearance in federal court on Wednesday. McGinley worked at the schools until he filed for retirement benefits on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The information session will be held at 7 p.m. at the Longmeadow High School auditorium. It will feature school administrators, members of the towns School Committee, the towns police chief and other members of the police department, a federal prosecutor assigned to McGinleys case and two special agents from the FBI, according to an email from Superintendent Marty OShea. Another remote session will be held on Monday at 7 p.m., OShea said. Federal prosecutors say McGinley distributed child sexual abuse material to a group called Little boyz only on an encrypted messaging application. When contacted by law enforcement posing as a fellow user, prosecutors say McGinley said his sexual preference was for boys aged between 2 and 12, and especially boys between 4 and 7, U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah Foleys office said in a statement. In those conversations, prosecutors say McGinley told the officer he had students who were 11 to 14 years old but he ha[d]nt touched them sexually, and that he sat hot boys strategically so [he could] see under their desks, and close to [him], Foleys office said. McGinley is also accused of making graphic sexual statements" about the boys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Aug. 8, during a search of McGinleys person and home, investigators found two iPhones, an Apple Watch, a tablet and two laptops. A forensic examination of McGinleys phone revealed more than 100 files depicting child sexual abuse materials, prosecutors said. During the search, prosecutors say they found a locked Pelican case in McGinleys basement, which was full of items for children between 5 and 7 years old, including childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream and apple sauce packets. The case also contained a toolbox with boys underwear and bedding stuffed inside, according to the statement. OShea, the school superintendent, said the press release from Foleys office describes a highly troubling and disturbing criminal matter. Longmeadow Public Schools are cooperating fully with law enforcement and have been in communication with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families and Longmeadow police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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, he continued. 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. While the Thursday meeting is exclusively for current Longmeadow Public Schools parents, caregivers and staff, another broader meeting that will be remotely accessible is being scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday. More News Read the original article on MassLive. NORTHGLENN, Colo. (KDVR) The Northglenn Police Department shared some very difficult news about a longtime detective who passed away last week. According to a social media post from the department, Detective Paul Gesi died last week after a long and courageous battle with severe post-traumatic stress disorder. The department said 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. His work left an indelible mark: Northglenn police prepare to lay one of their own to rest Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More law enforcement officers die every year by suicide than are killed on the job in ways that we think about, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser said. We think about law enforcement officers risking their lives going into a dangerous situation where they could be shot or otherwise hurt. But the real danger in terms of number of lives lost is suicide, because trauma, which law enforcement officers live with on a daily basis, stays in the body. Weiser is the chair of the Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. We want a culture of policing where people are told, maybe you want to take this one out, maybe you dont want to go to this incident that could be very painful because it will retraumatize you from another painful incident, Weiser said. Because when people suffer in silence, thats when we see the sorts of tragedies that were now talking about. A February article from the University of Colorado Anschutz talks about discoveries made by the University of Colorado Center for Combat Medicine and Battlefield researchers. The article states that as many as 30% of police officers, firefighters and EMS personnel will develop behavioral health challenges. In one study, they found nearly 70% of EMS professionals surveyed said they never have enough time to recover between traumatic events. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I went to the legislature to make sure that we had a grant program of $5 million to support law enforcement agencies across Colorado so they could hire psychological services to be at the ready to be on call to support law enforcement officers, Weiser said. Currently, theres money being given out across Colorado to law enforcement agencies with the purpose of, how do we help support recruitment and retention of peace officers? Weiser added. And one of the most important tools to retain peace officers is to support their wellness and mental health. On POSTs website, this page is dedicated to resources for first responders, including hotlines and a peer support program. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. Tracy Davidson - WCAU WCAU anchor Tracy Davidson told viewers last night that she is leaving the Philadelphia NBC owned station later this year. "As I approach my 30th year at NBC10, I have been reflecting on the past and imagining the future, Davidson partially wrote in an email obtained by TVSpy. It is with a full heart that I share this news: later this fall, I will be stepping away from the anchor desk to focus full time on my public speaking work." Davidson joined NBC10 in March 1996 and has served as both a weekday anchor and consumer reporter with NBC10 Responds. In 2013, Temple University honored Tracy with the Lew Klein Alumni in Media Award. She was recognized with Pennsylvania's Most Powerful and Influential Women Award by the National and Pennsylvania Diversity Council. In 2014, she was inducted into Philadelphia's Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame. In 2017, Tracy was awarded with the Hero Award from Montgomery Child Advocacy project. LONGVIEW, Texas (KETK) The Longview World of Wonders museum has received a grant from Texas Mutual that will allow them to complete renovations. Texas Mutual Insurance awarded $4.5 million in grants to 66 nonprofits across the state of Texas, including three right here in our area. Longivew WOW plans to use the $75,000 they received to expand their learning spaces and grow their capacity to create new hands-on learning experiences. Any time you get any kind of grant or large donation, its always really exciting. Its exciting to see that people, support the work you do and that people see the value in the projects that youre trying to complete and the programing and the different things were trying to do here. So its always very, very exciting to get a grant, especially one of that size. Sara McKinley, Executive Director She adds the museum has big plans for the future and this grant shows them theyre on the right track. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The other two East Texas organizations that received funding include the Henderson County HELP Center and the East Texas Food Bank. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Residents of Loudoun Valley Estates attend the Loudoun County School Board meeting to ask them to be a participant in an SCC hearing about proposed transmission lines in their neighborhood. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury) As the demand to pump power to energy-thirsty data centers concentrated in Northern Virginia swells, a debate about where to put towering high-powered transmission lines in populated areas has put one Loudoun County community on the defensive. Dominion Energy is working to bring a reliability loop of power to the so-called Data Center Alley in Ashburn. Two routes that will connect substations to over 100 data centers in the area are already approved and in the process of being built. To complete the last portion of the loop, the utility, state regulators, local leaders and community members must determine which route is most palatable for the more developed areas of town. Photo of Dominion Energys proposed transmission lines for the Golden to Mars substations in Loudoun County. A group of neighbors in Loudoun Valley Estates in Ashburn have banded together to try and prevent the 165 foot, 500kv high-voltage transmission lines from being built in their backyards as part of one of the routes proposed by Dominion. One homeowner said she was blindsided by the new route being added to the proposal this year, which moved the transmission line from the Rock Ridge High School grounds up the nearby hill, cutting her backyard in half. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I mean, weve got so many memories in our house, the same as our neighbors. And this thing just shattered our life. We havent put everything on hold because we just dont know whats going to happen, homeowner Vicky Hu said. Hu has lived in the Loudoun Valley Estates neighborhood for 20 years. She raised her daughter there and enjoys the forested look of the area which is what drew her from Fairfax County. She also sold many of the homes in the community. Her yard is projected to have one of the massive towers placed in it under proposed route 3a. There is the possibility that eminent domain laws, with approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, could remove her from her home if the State Corporation Commission (SCC) approves the 3a route and the lines come too close to her house. Even if she is able to stay, she and her husband fear it could mean major property devaluation, with the tower looming over the house and trees cleared away from the cliffside. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The house is going to be worthless, if they put a power line there. Because we want to live next to a power line? Hu said, And the whole reason we bought the house in Ashburn is because of the view, the nature, the wildlife. Dominion said they would assess the fair market value of the property they would need for the project and try to come to a deal with the impacted homeowners along that route. They do not plan to approach the owners unless 3a is selected. We would approach the resident and say we are requesting to negotiate with you on an easement on your property. That means the property is still yours, you still own it, Robert Richardson, an electric transmissions communications consultant for Dominion, said. An easement gives us certain rights and restricts the use of the property in certain ways. The Loudoun County School Board voted against two of the proposed routes that touch the grounds of the Rosa Lee Carter Elementary School and the high school, saying they wouldnt approve unless the lines could be buried. Route 3a was then added to the proposal, which impacts Hu and her neighbors properties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted to support route 4 that runs parallel to the high school. They also requested that no power lines be built within 500 feet of any residence or public school without being buried, but they have no enforcement authority. In response to the boards concerns, Dominion spokesperson Aisha Khan said a feasibility study was done on 500kv power lines being buried. The only other place in the country that has done a project like that is in California. There are several factors that make burying the lines in Ashburn impossible, Khan said, from acreage needed for the entry point into the earth for the lines, water supply, and other challenges. However, we think its the right thing to do. These houses, these neighborhoods were built prior to knowing were going to have these huge electrical power lines in our neighborhood, said Kerry Canfield, a Loudoun Valley Estates resident. All of Loudoun County needs to know whats coming, and we need to push them to go underground. Many of Hus neighbors attended a Loudoun County School Board meeting on Tuesday. They wanted the school to play a role in the SCC case in order to gain details on the proposed routes and file comments in the case before the board rules on which route will be selected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are concerned about the long-term safety, property values, not to mention the impact on our children. If these power lines are not good for the school property, its definitely not good for the residents. So we urge you to support us here by filing a notice of participation in the (SCC case), Loudoun Valley Estates resident Ravishankar Krishnamoorthy said at the meeting. Eight supervisors voted in favor of participating in the case, with one abstaining. Richardson said they hope to talk with the school board again about the possibility of the two routes that touch their property. Route 3a is not our preferred route, 3 remains our preferred route. The problem with Route 3 is we cant build Route 3 unless the school system says, you can, Richardson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the proposed routes mostly runs along the Loudoun County Parkway. The board of supervisors voted against supporting that one because they did not want the power lines along the road. But the SCC could still select that route as the best option after hearing the case. In a hallway outside the school board meeting, Hu said she feels her residential area is the easiest way for Dominion to get around the school and county concerns. Now her and her neighbors are stuck in limbo until the SCC decides which route is selected. If the power lines are not built it will create a major energy gap for the data centers in the area. Dominion said there could be violations brought down by regional grid operator PJM Interconnection if they dont supply the needed power by June 2028, the projected date that the project will come online. Thats where you would expect problems on the grid by that date if this project isnt energized. If youre providing too much, if youre serving too much load with not enough transmission lines, you can damage equipment, Richardson said. You can damage conductors. And so then, you start having other challenges with serving the greater region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a public hearing scheduled September 18 at Rock Ridge High School near Loudoun Valley Estates. The official SCC hearing where both sides will present their arguments for the project will be on Dec. 15. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Various law enforcement representatives joined Attorney General Liz Murrill to talk about what is being done to combat online predators in Louisiana. During a news conference, Murrill announced a lawsuit against the popular gaming platform, Roblox. She alleges the platform facilitates the distribution of child sexual abuse material and exploits Louisiana children. Due to Robloxs lack of safety protocols, it endangers the safety of the children of Louisiana. Roblox is overrun with harmful content and child predators because it prioritizes user growth, revenue, and profits over child safety. Every parent should be aware of the clear and present danger poised to their children by Roblox so they can prevent the unthinkable from ever happening in their own home, said Murrill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent report revealed a group of 3,334 members openly trading child pornography and soliciting sexual acts from minors, she shared. Of the companys 82 million users, about 56% are under the age of 17. The end result is that Defendant, through its failure to implement adequate safety features and its failure to provide notice of the danger, provides the perfect place for pedophiles. the lawsuit said. Murrill is seeking a permanent injunction to prohibit them from engaging in any activity in violation of the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act, ban Roblox from claiming it has enough safety measures, face all legal penalties, and make Roblox pay restitution to the state. Read the full lawsuit here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard shared a few arrest statistics about child predators in the parish. Weve only been involved with this task force for two years, and my stats alone are almost 170 arrests, and we have identified 70 victims that were unknown to law enforcement, said Ard. In Livingston Parish, deputies conducted a search warrant of a home and found a suspect in possession of child sexual abuse material. During the time of the arrest, the suspect was actively on Roblox. The suspect had a voice-changing device to sound like a young female, allegedly for the purpose of luring and sexually exploiting minor users of the platform. There is no justification for this, said Murrill. Parents need to be involved Your child is not safe when they have that phone in their hand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other speakers included East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Sid Gautreaux and Supervisory Special Agent David Ferris, commander of the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce. Roblox responds On Friday, Roblox shared a response to Murrills lawsuit. A news release states, Any assertion that Roblox would intentionally put our users at risk of exploitation is simply untrue. The company also noted that they dedicate substantial resources to help detect and prevent inappropriate content and behavior. Robloxs website shares that they collaborate with law enforcement and other groups to keep users safe, including the FBI and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fifteen arrested in Livingston Parish for child internet crimes Latest News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said the state is suing online gaming platform Roblox, claiming that it permits sexual abuse of children and harbors child predators. (Image courtesy of Roblox) Louisiana is suing Roblox, the popular online gaming site, claiming it has distributed child sexual abuse material and fails to protect or notify users of sexual predators. Attorney General Liz Murrill filed the lawsuit Thursday in Livingston Parish at the 21st Judicial District Court. The lawsuit alleges Roblox endangers Louisiana children as an unchecked forum for sexual predators to connect with children and allows the sharing of sexually explicit material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robloxs lack of age verification and warnings of the danger pertaining to sexual predators are listed in the lawsuit as key missing elements that could protect children. Due to Robloxs lack of safety protocols, it endangers the safety of the children of Louisiana. Roblox is overrun with harmful content and child predators because it prioritizes user growth, revenue, and profits over child safety, Murrill said in a news release. Louisianas lawsuit follows legal action brought against video game companies with children as a primary user base. A class action lawsuit filed in California in May against the companies that own Minecraft and Fortnite claims the two games cause harm and addiction, and that they encourage unchecked in-game purchases and excessive playing time. Murrills lawsuit cites an arrest made July 15 in Livingston Parish as an instance of child endangerment linked to Roblox. The suspect possessed child sexual abuse images, actively used the gaming site and used voice-altering technology on his computer to mimic a younger feminine voice, allegedly to lure and sexually exploit young players, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit also cites issues with lack of adequate age verification for Roblox experiences, games created by independent users. Games with titles such as Escape to Epstein Island, Diddy Party and Public Bathroom Simulator Vibe can be easily labeled by users in the all ages (suitable to everyone) category, according to the lawsuit, making sexually explicit material, simulated sexual activity such as child gang rape, and open trading of child pornography among gamers more accessible to children. The state of Louisiana is suing the San Mateo, California-based company for restitution, damages and attorneys fees. When reached for comment on the lawsuit, a Roblox spokesperson said while no system is perfect, the company spends 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. This is a developing story. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) Child abuse was a big topic for lawmakers on Wednesday, and a new law could make it harder for abusers to get away with it. Were going to make sure that we are not dropping any of the cases, that every case that is called in is going directly to the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), said Democratic State Sen. Regina Barrow. Barrow said the law enhances abuse investigations. She said it also impacts childcare services and schools, requiring any substantiated reports of abuse to go directly to the Department of Children and Family Services and streamlining the states process of keeping up with names. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we first started off, I had a simple question to our ombudsman about the judicial system, where cases were being called to and when they went before the court. Now, we have filled in some of those gaps as it relates to how reporting is done, who is going to investigate, ensuring every child has a sense of protection, said Barrow. Barrow said investigations will be more thorough, and experts say if abuse likely happened, that information will now go where it needs to. The families are being notified that if there is a child-on-child case, then they are notified that it has been substantiated. There is an investigation because that was not happening before. So thats a better way of making sure that kids and families are protected, she said. Barrow said this is a step forward, but more needs to be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I hope is that we continue to make sure that we recognize something is not right, that we correct it, and then we also fund it if necessary, Barrow declared. 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. (Photo credit: Wesley Muller/Louisiana Illuminator) District maps for seats in the Louisiana Legislature violate the federal Voting Rights Act, a panel of judges on the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled. Their decision upholds a lower court ruling that found the boundaries discriminated against Black voters. The panels ruling was issued Thursday in the case Nairne v. Landry, in which Black voters sued the state over redistricting plans the legislature adopted in 2022. The new boundaries for Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives districts did not increase the number of majority Black seats. The plaintiffs alleged they were unconstitutional racial gerrymanders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three appellate judges James Dennis, an appointee of President Bill Clinton; Catharina Haynes, an appointee of President George W. Bush; and Irma Ramirez, an appointee of President Joe Biden upheld a 2024 ruling from U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick of the Middle District of Louisiana. Dick, who former President Barack Obama named to the federal bench, determined the legislative maps do not give Black voters a fair opportunity to elect their own representatives. Dicks ruling came after the 2023 elections, when a new class of lawmakers were elected, yielding a Republican supermajority in both chambers. The state appealed Dicks decision, arguing in part that Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional and should not be applied to Louisiana. The section prohibits actions and policy that restrict a persons right to vote based on their race, color or membership in a language minority group. The 5th Circuit judges disagreed with that argument. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Their decision said that when Congress approved the Voting Rights Act, it did so based on overwhelming evidence that sterner and more elaborate measures were needed to address an insidious and pervasive evil, referring to laws in some states that sought to disenfranchise Black voters. The judges shot down the states request that it ignore the Supreme Court and disregard the intent of Congress when it outlawed racial discrimination in voting in Section 2. This is a historic affirmation of the rights of Black voters in Louisiana, said Megan Keenan, a staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Unions Voting Rights Project who is representing the Nairne plaintiffs. Todays decision sends a powerful message: The Voting Rights Act is still a vital safeguard against racial discrimination in our democracy. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill condemned the ruling. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are reviewing our options with a focus on stability in our elections and preserving state and judicial resources while the Supreme Court resolves related issues, Murrill said in a statement to the Illuminator. Murrills comments refer to the U.S. Supreme Courts consideration of a separate Louisiana redistricting case over the constitutionality of its U.S. House districts. Its scheduled for a second round of arguments on Oct. 15. Justices asked parties to the case to address whether the states intentional creation of a second majority-minority congressional district violates the 14th or 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Though the 5th Circuit panel agreed that the maps in the Nairne case violate the Voting Rights Act, there is a stay on redrawing them until the Supreme Court rules in Louisiana v. Callais, the congressional redistricting case. A ruling on Callais is not expected until next May or June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorneys for the Nairne plaintiffs have advocated for new maps to be quickly adopted and special elections to be held. But if new maps are eventually adopted, it is most likely they will not be used until the 2027 elections. UPDATE: At least one judge on the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has issued a stay in the ruling, which has little effect since drawing of new maps has already been stayed until there is a ruling in the Callais case. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Getty Images While nearly 5,000 orphan oil and gas wells pose environmental risks throughout the state, Louisiana is suing the entity it created then killed to remedy the problem. Its more evidence that relying on the fossil fuel industry to address a problem after the fact rather than preventing it in the first place continues to prove pointless. In this latest instance, a framework set up with the direct input of oil and gas interests appears to have collapsed under the weight of self-dealing and shoddy bookkeeping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lawsuit filed Friday in a state court in Baton Rouge asks a judge to issue a temporary restraining order to prevent the Louisiana Oilfield Restoration Association from tossing any business records, The Advocate reported. Louisiana parted ways with LORA after an audit last year showed it was failing to keep pace with abandoned and neglected wells. A separate review raised questions about the associations financial practices. Among the allegations state officials have lobbed at LORA is that it helped arrange a $780,000 home loan for Johnny Adams, the former assistant commissioner for the state Office of Conservation. Adams helped establish LORA in 2019 and fashioned its cooperative endeavor agreement with the state, according to the lawsuit. It set up a fee schedule for oil and gas exploration companies that LORA collected to pay for orphan well remediation. Adams attorney told The Advocate his clients home loan was arranged with Chromos Wealth Services and not LORA. The state included Chromos as one of the defendants in its lawsuit, claiming its among the companies that received investment fees from the association and benefited from its tight-knit relationships. Its arguable that close-kin business ties were inevitable from the start when LORA was established as a for-profit entity with minimal oversight from the state. Last years audit noted that while the Office of Conservation allowed the association to increase the fee it collected for administrative costs, there was no way to review LORAs spending to see if it was justifiable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LORA stands by its work. In a statement to The Advocate, spokesman David LaPlante said the current administration has different plans for addressing orphan wells, and that LORA will address the states allegations in court. The audit counted 976 plugged orphaned wells during fiscal years 2020-23 based on numbers from LORA and the states Oilfield Site Restoration Program. But during that same period, nearly 1,700 new orphaned wells were reported. The Office of Conservation gave the association its official kiss of death in May, saying it no longer recognized LORA as an acceptable financial institution to help drillers meet financial security requirements in Louisiana. Six years ago, it was created to provide what amounts to insurance for exploration projects, then given authority to collect fees for abandoned and spent well cleanup. The writing on the wall for LORA came in spring 2024 when the Louisiana Legislature approved the creation of the Natural Resources Trust Authority, a subdivision of the state Department of Energy and Natural Resources. It was pitched as an opportunity to bring oversight of orphan well remediation in house and find a more reliable funding source for the work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres skepticism over whether the state will make appreciable progress in addressing its orphan well issues. Last years audit estimated it would cost more than $500 million to cap and clean the number of wells needing attention at the time, which was nearly 4,800. Furthermore, the number of inactive wells ones with a high risk of becoming orphaned exceeded 21,600. Gov. Jeff Landry has reconfigured his Department of Energy and Natural Resources (he added Energy to its name) with a decided lean toward fossil fuel interests. Its secretary, Tyler Gray, was hired away from one of the states leading oil and gas lobbying groups with a $60,000 salary increase compared with the person who previously held the departments top job. Certainly, LORAs inadequacies leave lots of room for improvement for a state-led effort to plug orphan wells. But it remains to be seen whether Landry and legislators and their eventual successors, given the scope of the problem can fund a long-term solution. Until they are willing to require the oil and gas industry to take financial responsibility for the mess its left behind in Louisiana, theres little hope conditions will improve leaving Louisianians to face the risk and cost. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) Louisiana sued the online gaming platform Roblox on Thursday, alleging the wildly popular site has perpetuated an environment where sexual predators "thrive, unite, hunt and victimize kids. The lawsuit, filed in state court by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, alleges that Roblox has failed to implement effective safety measures to protect child users from adult predators. Due to Robloxs lack of safety protocols, it endangers the safety of the children of Louisiana, Murrill said in a news release. Roblox is overrun with harmful content and child predators because it prioritizes user growth, revenue, and profits over child safety." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company has faced lawsuits and backlash for not doing enough to protect kids on its gaming services. Last month, a lawsuit was filed in Iowa after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly introduced to an adult predator on the platform, then kidnapped and trafficked across multiple states and raped. In Louisiana, Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard said his office has had multiple cases involving Roblox. In one, police allege a man used voice-altering technology to pose as a girl on the platform. Ard said there have yet to be any arrests made related to the gaming site. Ultimately, Murrill said she believes Roblox should be shut down. Roblox said it disputes the allegations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The assertion that Roblox would intentionally put our users at risk of exploitation is categorically untrue, the company said in a statement. While no system is perfect, Roblox has implemented rigorous safeguards such as restrictions on sharing personal information, links, and user-to-user image sharing to help protect our community, the company added. Unfortunately, bad actors will try to circumvent our systems to try to direct users off the platform, where safety standards and moderation practices may differ. We continuously work to block those efforts and to enhance our moderation approaches to promote a safe and enjoyable environment for all users. The free online gaming platform has more than 111 million monthly users. Its website describes Roblox as "the ultimate virtual universe that lets you create, share experiences with friends, and be anything you can imagine. Roblox doesnt allow users to share videos or images in chats and tries to block any personal information, such as phone numbers. However, as with other gaming platforms and social media sites with similar policies, people find ways around such safeguards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Roblox, which according to its website has a zero-tolerance policy for the exploitation of minors, doesnt allow children under 13 to chat with other users outside of games unless they have explicit parental permission. Because the platform does not encrypt private chat conversations, the company can monitor and moderate them. However, Murrill said there is no age minimum or substantial age verification process once a user signs up. As a result, young children, teens and adults posing as children can sign up, she said. The company says on its website that age verification "is a new feature that is currently in testing on Roblox. Last month, it launched a feature that requires teenagers aged 13 to 17 to send a video selfie to verify their ages if they want to chat freely with people they know, called trusted connections. Amid mounting criticism in recent months, the company has implemented additional measures that it says will keep their young users safe. In August, Roblox told AP that it was rolling out an artificial intelligence system to help detect early signs of possible child endangerment, such as sexually exploitive language. Roblox said the system led it to submit 1,200 reports of potential attempts at child exploitation to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in the first half of 2025. When a Louisiana family agreed to nurse a blind deer back to health, they were looking to do the right thing and didn't want any trouble. But that's exactly what they got last December. In 2018, a woman in Baton Rouge found a blind fawn that had been abandoned by its mother. The woman contacted Jen Sibley, who agreed to take care of the deer at her expansive property in Livingston Parish, reports WAFB, a local CBS affiliate. The deer, which the family affectionately named "Little Buck," eventually regained its health and lived with the Sibleys for seven years. Although Little Buck had a pen on the property, he was free to leave at any point but never did. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On December 22, 2024, officials from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries showed up at the Sibleys' door after receiving an anonymous tip that Little Buck was living on the property. Louisiana law only allows individuals to possess in captivity "certain sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife"which does not include deerfor up to 90 days. After finding the deer on the property, agents "seized the animal and euthanized it," according to WAFB. "My son's in tears," Sibley told WAFB. "I got him off the couch watching cartoons right before our family Christmas party to come tell his deer goodbye. They came and darted him. He was laying in his bedding area for 20 minutes. They shot him with a dart and then had to shoot him again." The family was then fined over $1,600. Trevor, Jaci's husband, was criminally charged with possessing the deer. Prosecutors ultimately declined to move the case forward and dropped the fine and criminal charge. The incident has outraged many, including Louisiana state Rep. Lauren Ventrella (RGreenwell Spring). Ventrella tells Reason she can list countless reports of animals being confiscated in the area, including one case last week where a fawn was killed after being seized by a good Samaritan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think we can find a better use of government resources than kicking down someone's door for raising a deer," she says. Last year, Ventrella introduced legislationwhich ultimately passedthat legalized wildlife rehabilitation for certain animals like rabbits and chipmunks. Ventrella plans to introduce new legislation to better protect animals like Little Buck by adding deer to the list of legal wildlife rehabilitation animals and shrinking the size of Louisiana's Wildlife and Fisheries Department. "It comes down to a matter of common sense, right? If this deer is free to come and go as it pleases, is that really even possessing wildlife in the first place?" she told WAFB. Ventrella says she believes the incident is about more than just a deer; it represents freedom from an overreaching government. "You can call myself a little country Braveheart," she says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sibleys' experience with government overreach is unfortunately not uncommon. Peanut the squirrel was captured and murdered by New York wildlife officials last year, sparking a wave of backlash online. (The squirrel's owners are suing the state of New York for $10 million because of the incident.) Earlier this summer, New York City officials tried to separate Lucy, an aging pygmy pig with numerous health issues, from her Staten Island family (owning a pig is illegal within city limits). Mass public outcry caused Democratic Mayor Eric Adams to pardon the pig, allowing Lucy to stay with her family if they left town. The post Louisiana Wildlife Officials Killed a Blind Deer After a Family Nursed It Back to Health appeared first on Reason.com. Notre-Dame has reclaimed its title as Frances most-visited monument seven months after reopening to the public. The Gothic cathedral was damaged by a fire in April 2019 and underwent a nearly billion-euro, five-year restoration effort before reopening its doors in December last year. Since then, more than seven million tourists have visited the church, which now has a new roof and spire, with between 35,000-40,000 people crossing its Portal of the Last Judgment every day, or almost a million each month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The footfall is expected to hit the 12 million mark by the end of the year. It will surpass Frances previous most-popular landmark the Sacre-Cur basilica atop Montmartre which welcomed nine million visitors in 2024. The white-domed basilica overlooking Paris outranked the Louvre Museum (8.7 million), the Palace of Versailles (8.4 million) and the Eiffel Tower (6.3 million), far ahead of the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey with its 1.5 million visitors. The Louvre was founded in 1793 and attracts between eight to 10 million visitors each year - Benjamin Girette/Bloomberg Finance LP Notre-Dame is set to break its own record for annual attendance as the number of visitors before the blaze was estimated at around 11 million. Theo Abramowicz, the president of the National Federation of Interpreters and Tour Guides, told Le Figaro: Requests started flooding in at the beginning of the year. Since then, they havent let up, and weve had to turn some people away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the most represented groups are South and North Americans, as well as Asians, he said, adding that there has been unprecedented interest from Parisians and other French visitors from Lyon, Grenoble and Bordeaux to see Notre-Dame. Ive also noticed a keen interest in the history of the cathedral, beyond the dramatic events of the fire, he said. Although tourists can save time by booking entry into the cathedral online, three-quarters of visitors arrive spontaneously. Smoke and flames rise during a fire at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in central Paris on April 15, 2019 - Hubert Hitier/AFP Father Guillaume Normand, the vice-rector of Notre-Dame, said: The cathedral was no sleeping beauty. But the fire, threatening to destroy what we thought was forever, may have reawakened enthusiasm. Notre-Dame attracts, fascinates and brings people together. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite being open to the public, restoration work has continued on the flying buttresses of the chevet, the presbytery and the north and south transept facades. Restoration work on Place Jean-Paul-II, the tree-lined square in front of the cathedral, is due to be completed by the end of the year. On Sept 20, the cathedrals north and south towers will once again reopen to visitors and are expected to attract 400,000 visitors per year alone. 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. Home improvement is getting a little easier in Westlake and becoming a bigger part of its economy. Palm Beach Countys newest city not only is getting a Lowe's at Seminole Pratt Whitney Road and Town Center Parkway North. The complex will be the North Carolina-based chain's regional headquarters, covering parts of South and Central Florida. It means jobs, convenience, and it's just one more sign that we're thriving as a city, Mayor JohnPaul OConnor said in an interview on Aug. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a meeting on Aug. 5, the city council voted 4-0 to approve the site plan for the proposed nearly 13-acre location. Lion Country Safari: Which lion hunts better, male or female? Princeton study done in Florida finds out The project will cost an estimated $20 million, with construction starting within a few months. Late October, early November, providing everything else falls in step, said David Yost, Lowes senior construction manager. It'll be approximately 11 months until the store would open. Lowe's in Westlake to fill gap in west suburbs' home-improvement market Right now the closest Lowes is in Royal Palm Beach, about 10 miles and a 20- to 25-minute drive away. Other home improvement stores, like Home Depot, arent any closer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The closest thing we have to a hardware store is Ace Hardware, which is about just outside our city limits of Westlake, OConnor said. But that's not a Lowe's. Though the Lowe's will be in Westlake, itll also be the main location for the districts regional manager, Christian Redman, whose district extends Palm Beach to Titusville, north of Cape Canaveral. Redman expects the new store to bring about 150 jobs to Westlake, with about 40% of them full time. There will be five to seven salaried leaders on site. And, OConnor said, construction of the complex will bring in even more jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They won't be here forever, but it's certainly employment for people to come and build this level of store, he told The Post in an interview. More: JCPenney at Mall at Wellington Green to remain open even after parent company sells store Westlake hopes Lowe's investment will lure other retail chains to city Redman expects the store will draw customers from Westlake and beyond. Our Royal Palm location services a lot of even Belle Glade and Clewiston, said Redman. We get a lot of customers from the south side" of Lake Okeechobee. The new location not only makes it easier to get those important DIY materials, but also could be a huge asset for a still-developing Westlake and nearby communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In time of need, when we have hurricanes and other things, they're an essential service, said Donaldson Hearing, a landscape architect representing Lowes and developer Minto LLC. A taste of Royal Palm Beach: Decadent Cuban sandwiches, savory bowls of pho, even oxtail OConnor said he hopes itll help with further development in Westlake, like construction on 60th Road. There's some other thoroughfares that perhaps an investment of this size will kind of accelerate the progress for the infrastructure that surrounds us, he said. OConnor says the Lowes is great for the community for jobs and shopping, but its also a draw for other major retailers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the Lowe's domino tipping, when that domino tips, that's going to trigger perhaps some other investment that's had cold feet, OConnor said. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Lowe's home improvement stores to build regional headquarters in city Lowest price-point: Deportation Depot will open at empty Baker County prison, not Camp Blanding Camp Blanding is out, and the empty Baker County Correctional Institute is in. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the empty prison will be the new home of the states second immigration detention facility. We are calling this the Deportation Depot, DeSantis said Thursday. DeSantis said the facility has capacity for more than 1,300 detainees and is only about a 15-minute drive away from the Lake City Gateway Airport, where he expects deportation flights to be carried out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ: DeSantis opening Detention Depot in empty Baker County prison to combat illegal immigration According to the Governor, the facility will be staffed by contractors and the National Guard. DeSantis explained that the need to bring a second facility online comes as Alligator Alcatraz reaches about 50 percent capacity. But he argued a standing order from a federal court blocking new construction at the Everglades detention center did not factor into the decision to move forward with the second facility. READ: Florida appears to be moving forward with Camp Blanding immigrant detention center We have what we want at Alligator Alcatraz. We probably could do some more, but we were looking at a demand signal that is strong, and we did need this, said DeSantis. And so, we were always planning on doing it. I just wanted to be sure that the demand was there. The demand is there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Baker County prison was emptied in 2021 as part of a strategic consolidation of state prisons. Thanks to the existing infrastructure, state officials expect theyll be able to get the facility up and operational in roughly two weeks, though the buildings will need to be fitted with air conditioning. READ: Immigrants are welcome here: Protesters raise concerns over Camp Blanding ICE detention facility Its expected to cost $6 million. In comparison, Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie said Camp Blanding would have had up to a $100 million start up cost. Effectively its DOGE Florida-style to support government DOGE and that is to, you know come in at the lowest price-point, Guthrie said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ: We dont want to do it just to do it: Camp Blanding ICE facility may take longer than planned Meanwhile, Alligator Alcatraz required roughly $200 million to get up and running, according to Guthrie. The total annual price tag of Alligator Alcatraz is closer to $450 million. State Representative Angie Nixon (D-Jacksonville) argued that the price tag of the Deportation Depot will ultimately be much higher than $6 million. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Im sure were still talking hundreds of millions of dollars to operate this facility, Nixon said. The Governor has argued the state will not bear the brunt of any of its immigration efforts, noting the federal government is reimbursing the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, he claimed the state has been approved for a $608 million federal grant to cover the states immigration costs. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] By going with the Baker facility, he said he expects the state will ultimately come in much lower than that price tag. But Nixon argued either way, taxpayers are still picking up the tab. The feds are deciding that they dont need to fund free lunch programs, free breakfast programs anymore. So, at the end of the day thats taxpayer dollars, Nixon 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. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A suspect is in custody after a failed traffic stop on I-10 West around 4 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14. Eric Dewayne Coleman, 38, led law enforcement on a chase after the attempted traffic stop in Ascension Parish, according to the Louisiana State Police. They said he was charged with aggravated flight, aggravated obstruction of a highway of commerce, and numerous traffic violations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LSP said Coleman drove over 100 mph at times during the chase. Authorities stated Coleman committed numerous traffic violations and entered residential areas before crashing into a telephone pole. The 38-year-old almost hit two LSP units before trying to run away, law enforcement added. Coleman was taken into custody soon after. The Baton Rouge Police Department assisted with Colemans arrest. Denham Springs antique district vandalized with lewd graffiti Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. Despite being a citizen of the United States, Giana Sosa still carries her passport with her when she walks around the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus. As someone who was born outside of the country, she feels like she has more of a target on her back on her college campus than off of it. That is in part due to the Trump administrations focus on colleges and universities especially those like Harvard University and UMass Amherst that have had protests and encampments over the war in Gaza. The two have faced investigations and, in the case of Harvard, billions of dollars in federal funding have been cut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im very fearful. If it could happen to Harvard it can happen to any school, Sosa said. The Trump administration recently announced it was seeking a $1 billion settlement from the University of California, Los Angeles another public institution like UMass after suspending $584 million in federal grants from the institution. Im a person where Id like to know the next steps of everything. I have a lot of fears going into the semester of college, Sosa said. While Sosa said she loves studying at UMass Amherst, she feels like she has to rush to leave. Ideally, she said she would like to extend her studies at UMass Amherst for another semester past her senior year. However, she has credits she still needs to complete after transferring from Cape Cod Community College. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I hope it is my last year because I dont want to deal with another semester where Im worried about whats going on in the outside world or here on campus. Addressing antisemitism While some students MassLive interviewed across the state express concerns about how the federal government may be hurting higher education, at least one views the upcoming academic year with optimism due to presidential actions. Noah Levy, a rising senior at Brandeis University, said it seems like every day theres an attack on Jewish institutions or Jewish people. To him, the Trump administrations focus on antisemitism has been needed on college campuses and overall positive, he said. He believes the federal governments actions will have ripple effects across higher education, forcing colleges and universities to better enforce rules about what constitutes Jewish hate and an increased focus on stopping such hate, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im optimistic about the safety of Jewish students on campus across the country, Levy said. Brandeis still feels like a safe haven in comparison to other campuses, Levy said. Brandeis was founded in 1948 by the American Jewish community to counter antisemitism and quotas on Jewish enrollment in higher education. About a third of students are Jewish at Brandeis, according to the universitys website. In April 2024, Brandeiss then-president Ronald Liebowitz announced he was extending its transfer application deadline until May 31, aiming to provide an environment for Jews and students from every background free of harassment and Jew-hatred amid ongoing protests related to the war. Damage prevention mode To other students, the Trump administrations focus on higher education hasnt been warranted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan Schwartz, a rising junior at Harvard, is part of a student group called Students for Freedom, which opposes the Trump administrations actions toward the university due, in part, to its interference with academic freedom. While he expects this year to be a continuation of the same work by student organizers such as holding rallies and speaking with the Harvard administration about their concerns what is top of mind for students each semester surprises him, he said. Between the encampments on campus related to the war in Gaza to the Trump administrations attacks on the university over campus antisemitism, something new or controversial frequently confronts the lives of Harvard students, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its been so many different attacks from different directions on parts of Harvard education. Its just been really concerning, Schwartz said. Schwartz said student organizers are working to ensure Harvard doesnt accept unfavorable terms in a potential settlement with the Trump administration, which is reportedly in its final stages. For instance, Schwartz said he doesnt want the Harvard deal to look like Columbia Universitys settlement, which agreed to pay over $220 million, be monitored by an external group and disclose data on admissions, including racial information. Were mostly in damage prevention mode. But I think the single most important thing that we need to avoid is something along the lines of what happened at Columbia [University], where they have external monitors from the federal government. Theyre really infringing upon pretty basic elements of academic freedom. And so the further we can stay away from that, the better, he said. Getting a seat at the table Jack Masliah, an international student from Mexico attending Northeastern University, has similarly been ramping up his organizing for the upcoming academic year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He helped to create the Educational Freedom Project in March, which is a group of students across campuses in Greater Boston fighting government attacks on higher education and asking for a seat at the table with university administrators. He said students and faculty are often scared to speak out about these issues because they want to keep their heads low so that Northeastern or other Boston-area schools dont get the Harvard or Columbia treatment. While the groups intention is to be a part of the conversation when colleges or universities are making decisions in reaction to Trump administration threats, the group also wants to talk to administrators about how to adapt to new concerns that arent created by the federal government such as artificial intelligence in classrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We feel there is a transformation higher ed happening, even if the government wasnt doing what theyre doing right now, Masliah said. There just seems like decisions are being made at a very high level without any consultation from students. And that student voices, the student government or the student body is largely ignored. And to a certain extent, I think students dont even realize that their voices could be heard. So we havent done much about that. So we hope that the Educational Freedom Project can kind of narrow that gap, he said. More Higher Ed Read the original article on MassLive. The Trump administrations heavy-handed revision of U.S. history has put fear into Smithsonian employees, eliciting comparisons among staffers to 1930s Germany. Workers at the government-created museums are censoring historical content that they believe could upset the president. Tensions have gotten so high that staffers have been warned against putting any complaints about the current climate at the institution in writing, while volunteers are considering quitting, HuffPost reported Thursday. On Tuesday, White House officials laid out detailed plans to eliminate exhibits that they determined represented improper ideology, sparking alarm and panic among staffers. The memo challenged the application of educational lenses on race, gender, and oppression in U.S. history and accused the Smithsonian directly of advancing a divisive, race-centered ideology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The administrations critiques also veered toward eugenics, torching a specific Smithsonian exhibit for describing race as not a biological reality but a social construct and underscoring that race is a human invention. But the memo wasnt a suggestion: failure to comply will turn the faucet off on funding for the worlds largest educational institution, effectively crippling the Smithsonian and nixing two-thirds of the organizations revenue. Everyone is so scared, one longtime Smithsonian worker told HuffPost. Its an impossible position to put us in, they continued. We cant be political with our content, but they have politicized everything. We need to prove were not partisan by following this very partisan directive. What are we supposed to do? Its like up is down. Its maddening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Employees have quietly conceded to the White Houses demands in an effort to save Smithsonian head Lonnie Bunch from losing his job. Staffers described Bunch as loved and respected. But kowtowing to Donald Trump has not yet proved to be a winning strategy for the Smithsonian. Earlier this month, the Smithsonian removed Trump from its exhibit on impeachments, under direct pressure from the White House. That left the exhibit focusing on Presidents Andrew Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Bill Clinton, effectively returning the exhibit to the way it looked in 2008. The American Presidency wings revised signage explained that only three presidents have seriously faced removal over the course of American history. The change was the result of a White Houseinitiated content review in the wake of an art directors ousting. The Smithsonian has since re-added Trump to the impeachment exhibit, but with some changes to how the proceedings against him are described. Thanks to a radical offensive from the White House, the Smithsonian has generated far more political headlines lately than its accustomed to, but its a safe bet the institution isnt accustomed to the kind of criticisms it recently received from Rep. Eric Burlison. In an interview that was published online two weeks ago, the Missouri Republican congressman appeared on a conservative media outlet and referenced his belief that giant humans once existed. As Meidas Touch News reported, Burlison specifically said he would appear at a conference focused on fringe topics including the biblical Nephilim figures in Genesis that some interpret as the giant offspring of angels and human women. After an exchange about angels and interdimensional travel, Burlison added that he believed the Smithsonian might be hiding skeletal evidence that would prove the existence of past giants and he hoped to use his role on the House Oversight Committee to investigate this further. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week, one of the GOP congressmans colleagues made some related comments. The Hill reported: Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) said during a Wednesday podcast episode with Joe Rogan that lawmakers have seen evidence of interdimensional beings. ... I think that they can actually operate through the time spaces that we currently have, Luna said during the podcast. Unlike Burlison, who largely emphasized his personal beliefs, the Florida Republican suggested on the air that shes aware of evidence. And thats not something that I came up with on my own. Thats based on stuff that weve seen. Thats based on information that weve been told, Luna told Rogan. She added, What I can tell you without getting into classified conversations is that there have been incidences that I believe were very credible people have reported that there have been movements outside of time and space. Based on the photos that Ive seen, Im very confident that theres things out there that have not been created by mankind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz gained national notoriety when he started telling the public that Republicans are just weird. Occasionally, the Democrats comments come to mind. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Congressional Republicans have spent the week predictably cheering Donald Trumps decision to deploy National Guard troops to the streets of Washington, D.C., and placing local police officers under federal control, though some GOP lawmakers appear eager to see the president go even further. In his latest appearance on Newsmax, for example, Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky said, Were going to support doing this in other cities if it works out in Washington, D.C. ... We spend a lot on our military. Our military has been in many countries around the world for the past two decades, walking the streets trying to reduce crime in other countries. We need to focus on the big cities in America now. Despite the fact that such an approach appears to be wildly at odds with the U.S. Constitution and our system of government, the hapless GOP chairman of the House Oversight Committee apparently isnt the only one thinking along these lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day earlier, Republican Rep. Troy Downing of Montana appeared on Fox Business and insisted: We need to send in the troops to liberally run cities across the country. Time will tell whether the White House follows such a course, but the Republican rhetoric did remind me of a story from 10 years ago. Towards the end of Barack Obamas second term, an interviewer noted that the right had targeted him with all kinds of foolish conspiracy theories, and he asked the Democratic president whether he had a favorite. Obama didnt hesitate: The first thing that came to mind was Jade Helm. In case anyones forgotten, U.S. military officials organized some training exercises in 2015 for about 1,200 people in areas spanning from Texas to California. Somehow, right-wing activists got it in their heads that the exercises, labeled Jade Helm 15, were part of an elaborate conspiracy theory involving the Obama administration, the Pentagon, Walmart and some secret underground tunnels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of this, according to the conspiracy theorists, was part of a White House martial law plot, in which American civilians on American soil would be subjected to a military takeover. The far-right fears never made any sense, and it was tough to blame Obama for finding all of this rather amusing. But one of the underappreciated parts of the story was that a variety of Republican officials including senators, governors and House members at least pretended to take the conspiracy theories seriously. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott even felt the need to order the Texas Guard to monitor the military exercises just in case Obama was up to something nefarious. As of mid-May 2015, one polling outfit found that one-third of Republicans believed the conspiracy theory that the federal government was trying to take over Texas by way of the Jade Helm plot. Eventually, the training exercises happened; there was no military takeover; and the GOP base gradually moved on to different conspiracy theories. But the underlying fear is relevant anew: The whole point of the Jade Helm hysterics was conservative activists who seemed genuinely afraid of a tyrannical federal government sending active-duty troops into local American communities a step that conservatives, at the time, characterized as obvious authoritarianism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That was the summer of 2015. In the summer of 2025, however, many of those same conservatives have elected Republican policymakers who cant wait to send active-duty troops into local American communities. This post updates our related earlier coverage. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Donald Trump met Russias Vladimir Putin on a variety of occasions during his first term, though most were relatively brief interactions on the sidelines of G20 and APEC gatherings. There was, however, one summit between the two leaders. As Trump and Putin prepare for their second summit in Alaska, its worth remembering just how badly the American president failed in his first attempt. In July 2018, ahead of a bilateral meeting in Helsinki, White House officials provided Trump with a lengthy briefing book, intended to steer the Republican into taking a firm line with his Russian counterpart. Trump either didnt read or chose to ignore his own teams guidance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After a private meeting with the Russian leader in which the American president confiscated his interpreters notes for reasons that were never explained, the Republican held a disastrous press conference in which Trump defended America's adversary, took cheap shots at his own country, and sided with Putin over the judgment of American intelligence professionals. Soon after, The New York Times reported that U.S. intelligence officials were unanimous in saying that they and their colleagues were aghast at how Mr. Trump had handled himself with Mr. Putin. One official summarized a consensus view, concluding that it was clear whose side Trump was on, and it isnt ours. Former CIA Director John Brennan argued at the time that Trumps performance in Helsinki exceeded the threshold of high crimes [and] misdemeanors, was nothing short of treasonous, and offered timely evidence that he is wholly in the pocket of Putin. Then-Sen. John McCain went so far as to call Trumps appearance in Helsinki one of the most disgraceful performances by an American president in memory. The Arizona Republican, a month before his death, added, No prior president has ever abased himself more abjectly before a tyrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Politico reported around the same time that the bipartisan consensus on Capitol Hill was that Trump thoroughly embarrassed the United States. In some circles, the diplomatic gathering quickly came to be known as Trumps Surrender Summit. In theory, it shouldnt be too difficult for the second summit between these two to be less of a disaster. In practice, it remains to be seen whether the Republican can manage to avoid disgracing himself again. This post updates our related earlier coverage. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Its been a few days since Donald Trump announced hes deploying National Guard troops to D.C. streets and placing local police officers under federal control, though the presidents latest dramatic power grab came with a catch: It has to be temporary. Under existing law, if the White House intends to keep this unnecessary takeover going beyond 30 days, the president needs congressional approval. And while Trump has already indicated that hes prepared to seek an extension on his new policy, as Politico reported, thats apparently not the only thing on his mind. 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. ... [D]uring his speech announcing the 2025 Kennedy Center honorees on Wednesday, Trump repeatedly floated circumventing Congress to maintain his hold over the citys law enforcement. The president specifically declared his belief that he can act without Congress if theres a national emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Republican doesnt want to call a national emergency, but he will if he decides he has to. I dont pretend to know what will happen, but given recent events, its very easy to believe that if Trump circumvents Congress on this issue, Republicans wont much care because they never do. Lawmakers are, for example, supposed to be steering the nations policies on trade and tariffs. The president has instead decided to claim those powers for himself. Lawmakers are supposed to have the power of the purse, but when it comes to federal spending, Trump is concentrating that authority in the White House, too. Lawmakers are supposed to have the sole authority over confirming presidential nominees, but Trump and his team have even found ways to sidestep these powers. In each of these instances, congressional Republicans whove traditionally exercised some institutional pride and seen themselves as members of a co-equal branch have cheered Trump on as hes claimed their powers for himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not that Trump dislikes lawmakers, per se (at least those in his own political party); its just that he sees them as an irrelevant afterthought who occasionally get in the way until he goes around them, at which point GOP officials say, Good job, Mr. President. I spoke to a Capitol Hill source earlier this year who said that the White House has started to see Congress as a doormat. That was February. Its worse now. Officials whove traditionally been among the most powerful figures in the nation are content to play the role of Trumps backup dancers. This has hardly gone unnoticed. Republicans take a back seat as Trump steamrolls Congress with flurry of unilateral moves, read an NBC News headline. The GOPs meek acquiescence to Trumps power grabs, read a Washington Post headline. Trump Kicks Aside Congress With Sweeping Claims of Presidential Power, read a Wall Street Journal headline. Trump Kicks Congress to the Curb, With Little Protest From Republicans, a New York Times headline read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement GOP leaders have probably seen some or all of these reports. They continue to take a cowardly and passive approach to their responsibilities anyway. If you havent read the book How Democracies Die by Harvard professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, their premise is that modern democracies generally dont collapse at the hands of a military coup or an armed revolution. Rather, democracies break down gradually as public institutions and political norms are weakened from within, and people in positions of power make a choice to allow authoritarian figures to concentrate power. Its gutting to watch congressional Republicans follow that playbook to the letter. This post updates our related earlier coverage. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has told podcaster Joe Rogan that Congress has seen proof of interdimensional beings. I think that they can actually operate through the time spaces that we currently have, Luna said on Wednesdays episode of the Joe Rogan Experience. And thats not something that I came up with on my own. Thats based on stuff that weve seen. Thats based on information that weve been told, she claimed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luna, and Kentucky Republican Rep. James Comer, sent letters in February to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe, asking for a briefing on all records connected to UAP -- unidentified anomalous phenomena. The congresswoman, a rising star of the MAGA movement who has been endorsed by President Donald Trump, claimed that via her investigations, shes uncovered new information. Florida Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna appeared on Wednesdays episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. She told Rogan that Congress has seen proof of interdimensional beings. (The Joe Rogan Experience) Based on testimony that would be based on witnesses that have come forward. But what I can tell you is just were told that ... theyve seen things, Luna told Rogan. And what I can tell you without getting into classified conversations is that there have been incidences that I believe were very credible people have reported that there have been movements outside of time and space, she added. Based on the photos that Ive seen, Im very confident that theres things out there that have not been created by mankind. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She went on to explain that while she has not seen a spaceship or a portal, shes searching for information that could lead her to more evidence. Luna leads a task force working on the declassification of federal secrets, organized by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. She told Rogan that during her time working as an airfield manager with the Portland International Guard, she met F-15 pilots who had likely encounters with UAPs. This image from footage provided by the Department of Defense, from 2015, shows an unexplained object as it soars high along the clouds, traveling against the wind (Department of Defense) She added that she has seen photographic and historical evidence, and that she has spoken to pilots in the Air Force who alleged that UAP sightings are being covered up. Theres definitely something that I can tell you with confidence, that we dont know how to explain currently, said Luna. The Florida lawmaker added that she thinks the U.S. has reverse-engineered technology to build crafts originally created by non-humans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Luna criticized the intelligence community for allegedly withholding information on UAPs, and similar matters. When you have thousands upon thousands of people throughout time that have reported something, to say that those people are crazy, to say that the whole concept of just asking the question [may mean] that you are not psychologically sound, that in itself is a disinformation campaign to get people to shut up about it, she said. We know the U.S. government has not exactly been clean in a lot of what theyve done with the American people, specifically to the topic of UFOs, she added. The congresswoman argued that there is a protective complex from authorities who think that Americans might not be able to handle the realities of what has been found. U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Maj. David Grusch testified before a House Oversight subcommittee hearing on UFOs on July 26, 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) In the last few years, Congress has addressed the issue of UAPs. Lawmakers have been pushing for more transparency and a safe reporting system for those encountering such phenomena, with a number of congressional hearings and investigations held. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In November last year, subcommittees of the House Oversight Committee held a joint hearing entitled "Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena: Exposing the Truth." That came after the Pentagon issued a report in March 2024 stating that they had found no evidence of extraterrestrial spacecraft. In July 2023, a House Oversight subcommittee also held a hearing with three former military officials who said they think the government knows much more about UAPs than its letting on. Hearings have also included testimony from former intelligence officials and experts. Republicans are waging a propaganda push to hide the racist impact of their efforts to gerrymander congressional districts ahead of next years midterm elections. A couple of weeks back, Rep. Al Green, flanked by fellow members of the Texas Democratic congressional delegation, browbeat members of the media at a news conference. Greens gripe? That the mainstream press wasnt, in his view, doing an effective job of conveying the functional racism at play in the Donald Trump-backed gerrymandering effort in Texas, which is deliberately designed to target majority-Black and majority-Latino districts. Unfortunately, we have grown to the point in this country where you can use racism against people of color, but people of color can't respond and say, Thats racism. If we do, youre not going to print it. Youre not going to carry it. What youre going to do is allow the racist statement to prevail. And what we try to do to fight it by indicating that it IS racist you allow that to just be words that evaporate into nothingness. It was a warning that conservatives can obscure the true intent or result of this discriminatory assault on democracy if members of the press wont plainly depict it as such. And as Republicans spread misinformation over their gerrymandering efforts, its hard to argue with him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The examples are mounting. Just last week, Harmeet Dhillon, the civil rights-averse head of the DOJs civil rights division, claimed during an interview that the racist gerrymandering effort in Texas isnt truly racist but, instead, an effort to dismantle the racial spoils that Democrats have purportedly reaped from laws designed to combat racist gerrymandering. This, of course, is not true. My colleague Hayes Brown recently wrote an excellent op-ed explaining how Texas Republicans are making a mockery of the Voting Rights Act. And, as my former colleague Joy Reid detailed in a recent Substack post, its abundantly clear that the Texas GOPs plan will disenfranchise nonwhite voters particularly, Black ones. But seemingly not to be outdone by Dhillons propaganda, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott claimed in a Fox News interview over the weekend that Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a Texas Democrat, is the real racist for having the gall to highlight the racism in the gerrymandering effort. Abbott essentially claimed that the GOP plan couldnt possibly be racist, because it would create additional Hispanic-majority districts, though that obviously doesnt preclude the maps from being racist to Black people and its worth noting that the new districts were were drawn specifically to favor conservative-leaning Hispanics. And Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is in on the propaganda push, as well. During an appearance on Sean Hannitys Fox News show, DeSantis said hes entitled to further gerrymander his states congressional map because then-President Barack Obama and then-Attorney General Eric Holder gerrymandered brutally across the country in this decades census. Thats another lie, though Obama and Holder have advocated against gerrymandering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In reality, Florida Republicans who controlled their states most recent redistricting process drew gerrymandered maps that DeSantis pressured them to gerrymander further with a proposal from his office that diluted Black voter power. Nonetheless, the governor portrayed Floridas map as unfairly weighted in favor of minority groups and claimed theres some racial gerrymandering thats still lingering that we have to correct, per a recent Florida Supreme Court decision. Indeed, Floridas Republican-packed Supreme Court ruled last month that DeSantis could move forward with his gerrymandering plan, but the court also acknowledged that the plan would diminish the power of Black voters. All this to say, evidence abounds that Republicans are waging a racist assault on the American voting system even as they wage a propaganda campaign to present this push as something else entirely. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Senator Markwayne Mullin revealed that he actually has no idea who the mayor of Washington even is. During an interview on Fox News Wednesday, the Oklahoma Republican attempted to excoriate D.C.s very racist mayor for making Donald Trumps authoritarian takeover of the nations capital about race. And people may get eyebrows when I raise that, but he is the one that brings in race into the conversation, so hes the one thats pointing the fingers at it, and when you point one finger you got three pointing back at ya, Mullin said. But for him to say that, and flat out lie to the American people, he knows exactly whats happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Mayor Muriel Bowser isnt a he or a him. Shes a woman. And she didnt suggest Trumps takeover was about raceshes just Black. Several people online, including CNN senior reporter Edward Isaac-Dovere, suggested that Mullin might be referring to comments from Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024. Scott accused his critics at the time of being racist. (Spoiler alert, calling someone the DEI mayor is racist.) Clearly, not only do guests on Fox News not have to be experts on the people they want to complain about, but they dont even have to know what city theyre talking about. Crime is not down, the lack of prosecution is down, Mullin continued. They dont allow the prosecuting attorneys to actually prosecute, theyve taken all the felonies, and theyve dropped them down to dang near misdemeanors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Bowser called Trumps executive action unsettling and unprecedented, adding that she wasnt surprised given Trumps past rhetoric. Its unclear whether she meant his echoing of racist narratives about urban areas, or his specific grievances about Washington, of which he has many. On Tuesday, Bowser struck a stronger tone. 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, she said. Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) tried to make a point about crime in Washington, D.C. but critics are focusing on mistake he repeated instead. During a Fox News interview on Wednesday, Mullin was seemingly unaware of the identity of Muriel Bowser, the mayor of the nations capital, as he continued to use male pronouns to describe her. The left media, and the leaders in Washington, D.C., especially and I will say this the very racist mayor, and people may get eyebrows when I raise that, but hes the one that brings in race into the conversation, Mullin said on the The Ingraham Angle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So hes the one thats pointing the fingers at it, and when you point one finger, you got three pointing right back at you. But for him to say that, and flat out lie to the American people, he knows exactly whats happening, he continued. Mullin went on to say that crime is not down, but the lack of prosecution is down. Markwayne Mullin on DC: I will say this, the very racist mayor, and people may get eyebrows when I raise that, but he is the one that brings in race into the conversation.. pic.twitter.com/35dwdFX563 Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025 Social media users were quick to pounce on Mullin over his flubs. If youre going to smear the mayor of DC with falsehoods, at least give the audience the impression that you know who SHE is, legal scholar Ryan Goodman wrote on X. Another user attached an image of Bowser, with the caption, Meanwhile, the current DC mayor. Proof this clown Markwayne Mullin has no clue what hes talking about and is no more than a Trump lapdog spewing whatever talking points hes given, a different user said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he would be taking control of the Metropolitan Police Department and deploying hundreds of National Guard soldiers to the city in an effort to combat crime. National Guard troops were first spotted in the area earlier this week. On Wednesday, Trump said that he would ask Congress for a long-term extension on federalizing the police a move that would require Democratic support to ultimately pass. A section of the citys Home Rule Act allows the president to take control of the department, but only up to 30 days without congressional approval. Trumps unprecedented decision comes as local officials continue to stress that crime levels have already begun dropping in the city. During remarks to reporters on Monday, Bowser had called Trumps plan unsettling and unprecedented, but said that she did not have the legal authority to stop the president. She also said that an increased law enforcement presence in neighborhoods may be positive. I cant say that given some of the rhetoric of the past that were totally surprised, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But on Tuesday, Bowser took a more pointed approach. 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, she said. 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 his comments on Monday, Trump also suggested that other U.S. cities could be targeted next, including New York City, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. PORTLAND, Maine (AP) A network of clinics that provides health care in Maine asked a judge Thursday to restore its Medicaid funding while it fights a Trump administration effort to keep federal money from going to abortion providers. President Trump's policy and tax bill, known as the big beautiful bill, blocked Medicaid money from flowing to Planned Parenthood, the nation's largest abortion provider. The parameters in the bill also stopped funding from reaching Maine Family Planning, a much smaller provider that offers health care services in one of the poorest and most rural states in the Northeast. A federal judge ruled last month that Planned Parenthood clinics around the country must continue to be reimbursed for Medicaid funding as the provider wrangles with the Trump administration over efforts to defund it. That legal fight continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maine Family Planning filed a federal lawsuit last month seeking to restore reimbursements. Judge Lance Walker said he would issue a ruling by the end of the week. The loss of funding is nothing short of catastrophic, said Meetra Mehdizadeh, an attorney for the Center for Reproductive Rights arguing for Maine Family Planning. She said the Maine clinics are in jeopardy solely because Congress wanted to defund Planned Parenthood, and that is unfair to the provider. Abortion is a relatively small percentage of the overall services provided at MFP, Mehdizadeh said. Lawyers and representatives for Maine Family Planning say its 18 clinics provide vital services across the state including cervical cancer screenings, contraception and primary care to low-income residents. They also say Medicaid dollars are not used for its abortion services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The network previously said that without Medicaid, it would have to stop providing primary care for its patients by the end of October. It said about 8,000 patients receive family planning and primary care from the network. It also said many Maine Family Planning clinics provide care in very rural areas of the state where there are no other health care providers, and around 70% of their patients rely exclusively on MFP and will not see any other health care provider in a given year. Emily Hall, an attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, told the judge that Congress has a right not to contract with abortion providers. The rational basis is not simply to reduce the number of abortions, its to ensure the federal government is not paying out money to organizations that provide abortions, Hall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In court documents, Anne Marie Costello, deputy director for the Center for Medicaid & CHIP Services, called the request to restore funding legally groundless and said it must be firmly rejected. The core of its claim asks this Court to revive an invented constitutional right to abortion jurisprudence that the Supreme Court decisively interred and to do so in a dispute over federal funds, Costello said. While advocates of cutting Medicaid for abortion providers focused on Planned Parenthood, the bill did not mention it by name. Instead it cut off reimbursements for organizations that are primarily engaged in family planning services which generally include things such as contraception, abortion and pregnancy tests and received more than $800,000 from Medicaid in 2023. The U.S. Senates parliamentarian rejected a 2017 effort to defund Planned Parenthood because it was written to exclude all other providers by barring payments only to groups that received more than $350 million a year in Medicaid funds. Maine Family Planning asserts in its legal challenge that the threshold was lowered to $800,000 this time around to make sure Planned Parenthood would not be the only entity affected. It is the only other organization that has come forward publicly to say its funding is at risk. George Hill and Olivia Pennington from Maine Family Planning outside the U.S. District Court of Maine in Portland. (Photo by Eesha Pendharkar/ Maine Morning Star) Maines largest reproductive health care provider made the case in federal court on Thursday to restore Medicaid funding to the organization, which it said has been unfairly blocked through a provision in congressional Republicans massive tax cut and spending law. That provision only applies to nonprofit healthcare centers that offer abortions and receive above a certain amount in Medicaid funding, impacting reproductive health care providers nationally, including two in Maine: Maine Family Planning and Planned Parenthood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The consequences for Maine Family Planning and its patients are nothing short of catastrophic, said Meetra Mehdizadeh, senior attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights, the national organization that represented Maine Family Planning at the U.S. District Court in Portland. Maine Family Planning, which operates 18 clinics across the state, filed a lawsuit in late July against the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. Judge Lance Walker, who was nominated by President Donald Trump during his first presidency, did not immediately issue the preliminary injunction Maine Family Planning requested, but a decision is expected soon. Late last month, U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in Massachusetts granted an emergency injunction for Planned Parenthood and its national affiliates after an initial injunction blocked only certain clinics receiving Medicaid funds under the new law. On Thursday, Mehdizadeh asked the court to immediately block part of the law, arguing that Maine Family Planning would suffer irreparable harm by having to shut down their primary care practice and lay off at least two primary care providers. The health care provider has been unable to access Medicaid funding since July 4, when Trump signed the One Big, Beautiful Bill into law. Since then, the organization has stopped accepting new primary care patients. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without Maine Family Planning clinics, thousands of rural patients would have nowhere else to access cancer screenings, STI testing, contraception and annual checkups, plaintiffs said. About 70% of the 8,000 patients that rely exclusively on Maine Family Planning will not see any other health care provider in a given year, they said. Were facing a loss of $1.9 million, but even more important is potentially the loss of access to critical health care services to people who are living in medically underserved areas, said George Hill, the organizations president and CEO. Were often the only provider of care in these areas. Plaintiffs also argued that the law violates the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which guarantees equal protection under the law by withholding federal money, not because of any wrongdoing on the part of Maine Family Planning, but because of Republicans efforts to target Planned Parenthood and put abortion providers out of business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The provision violates this right because it treats some providers differently from others who are still able to bill Medicaid, Mehdizadeh said, noting that Medicaid funds already cant be used for abortions. Attorneys from the U.S. Department of Justice said that Congress can select which entities receive taxpayer dollars and is within its right to withhold funding from organizations providing elective abortions. Congress is entitled to special preference when it engages in funding decisions, said justice department attorney Emily Hall. The reason the law only applies to nonprofit entities that receive more than $800,000 in Medicaid reimbursements is because Congress can choose to start with the biggest part of the problem before considering whether to go further, Hall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hall also argued that Maine Family Planning has not demonstrated irreparable harm in this case. We would say having to end the primary care practice and having to discharge patients, potentially lay off staff members, is going to irreparably harm Maine Family Plannings ability to serve its patients, Mehdizadeh said. I think it would be bad if courts allowed businesses to get to the point where they are in bankruptcy or on the brink of ruin before stopping an unconstitutional law. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Former EU commissioner Mairead McGuinness has withdrawn from the Irish presidential election over health issues. McGuinness, who was tipped as the favourite to succeed Michael D Higgins in an election later this year, had been set to contend on behalf of Fine Gael. But in a statement released on Thursday, McGuinness said the "extremely difficult" call had be taken following a stay in hospital last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My priority now is my health," she said. "Given that the election is in a short couple of months, I do not believe that I have the strength to give the campaign my all." McGuiness said she had spoken to Tanaiste (Irish deputy prime minister) and Fine Gael party leader Simon Harris about withdrawing her name, and thanked him for his understanding. "I appreciate that this will come as a shock and disappointment to party members and colleagues in Fine Gael, but our political family is strong," McGuinness said. "I also want to thank all of those people who have done so much to support me, now and in the past." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision to withdraw on medical advice is the "right decision for me and my family", she added, asking for privacy. 'Awful shock' Harris said the decision has come as an "awful shock" but it is "absolutely essential" McGuinness prioritises her health. "It was our clear view in Fine Gael and the view of many people across Ireland that Mairead would make an excellent president of Ireland," Harris said. "Mairead's health will now not allow this." The tanaiste said his party's executive council will meet in the coming days to discuss the next steps for the election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "But that's for the time ahead, not for today. Today I want to pay tribute to Mairead," he added. Who is running for the Irish presidency? The role of the Irish president is a mostly ceremonial one, and is elected once every seven years. No date has yet been set for the poll, but it needs to be held before 11 November when Michael D Higgins' 14-year term in office officially ends. In order to be considered a candidate, a person must be an Irish citizen, over 35 and be nominated by at least 20 members of the Oireachtas (Irish Parliament) or four of the 31 local authorities. Aras an Uachtarain in Phoenix Park in Dublin is the official residence and workplace of the Irish president [Getty Images] So far, Independent TD Catherine Connolly has announced her bid for Aras an Uachtarain (the official residence of the Irish president) - with Labour formally agreeing to back her campaign. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irish entrepreneur Gareth Sheridan announced his intention to run for the Irish presidency, and said says he has support in both Tipperary and Laois county councils to get on the ballot paper, Irish broadcaster RTE reports. Peter Casey, who was born in Londonderry, came second in 2018 with 23.1% of the first preference vote in 2018 and has said he is interested in running again. MMA fighter Conor McGregor, as well as Riverdance star Michael Flatley, have both announced their intention to seek backers for their respective campaigns. Ireland's former chief medical officer, who was a high-profle figure during the Covid-19 pandemic, Tony Holohan has also indicated he may run. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sinn Fein met last month to discuss its plan. Fianna Fail says it is still considering its options. Academic Deirdre Heenan has been tipped as a potential candidate for the party. It has not run a presidential candidate since Belfast-born Mary McAleese won the 1997 election. Mexico City's Benito Juarez International Airport was forced to shut down due to flooding Sunday night after major storms hit the capital city. Dozens of flights were diverted after the Mexico City government issued a purple alert. Nearly 100 other flights were canceled as "air operations were suspended" beginning just before 8 p.m. local time. The airport reported between two and three inches of rain. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In order not to compromise operational safety, the aviation authority ordered the suspension of takeoff and landing operations for about four hours to allow for the removal of water left by the torrential rain," a statement shared via X read. "The intensity of the unusual storm caused various areas of the terminal buildings to also be affected, collapsing the storm drainage system, despite the fact that some areas had completed maintenance work in 2024 and at the beginning of this year." Nearly 15,000 passengers were affected by the closure, with the airport reportedly reopening after midnight. Related: United Airlines Grounds All U.S. Flights Until Further Notice American Airlines, which diverted some flights to Dallas, said in a statement, "Safety is our top priority and we thank our customers for their patience." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passengers affected by the shutdown took to social media to air their frustrations with one en route from Villahermosa, Mexico, claiming to have been "diverted to Oaxaca." "We were stuck there for almost 5 hours," the passenger said. "We are stuck on the plane that was diverted to Acapulco. They won't let us off the plane because there are no immigration agents (we're on an international flight) and they say there isn't enough accommodation in Acapulco," another wrote. "There's no more water on the plane, and we have at least 3 hours left." Mexico City is currently in its rainy season which typically lasts from early June to September with afternoon thunderstorms being common. Major Airport Flooded Leaving Passengers Stranded for Hours first appeared on Men's Journal on Aug 11, 2025 A traffic stop in Marshville earlier this week led to the seizure of approximately 15 kilograms of suspected cocaine and the arrest of two individuals. 6th arrest made in gang-related drive-by shooting, Union County sheriff says The Union County Sheriffs deputy, part of the S.H.I.E.L.D. Unit, stopped a car for a minor equipment violation. During the stop, K-9 Zander alerted to the presence of narcotics, leading to a search that uncovered the cocaine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The occupants of the car, Estefani Sandoval and Gilberto Juarez, both from Monroe, were arrested on multiple charges, including felony trafficking in cocaine. They were taken to the Union County Detention Center. Four small children were also found in the car and were released to a responsible guardian who was called to the scene. Sandoval received a secured bond of $2 million and remains in custody, while Juarez was released after posting a $200,000 bond. VIDEO: 6th arrest made in gang-related drive-by shooting, Union County sheriff says Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says he's confident he could defeat Democratic Party nominee and frontrunner Zohran Mamdani in a two-candidate race for New York City mayor. "I believe I beat the assemblyman," Cuomo said in a recent interview with Bloomberg News, as he pointed to Mamdani, the 33-year-old democratic socialist state lawmaker from Queens who shocked the political world in June by topping Cuomo and nine other candidates in the Democratic primary. But Cuomo, the former three-term governor who resigned in 2021 amid multiple scandals, said in order to defeat Mamdani, there must be a successful effort to "winnow down" the current five-candidate mayoral field in the nation's most populous city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani, Cuomo, Clash In New York City Mayoral Battle Mayoral candidate Andrew Cuomo speaks during a press conference on Aug. 4, 2025, in New York City. Nearly every recent poll in the New York City mayoral race indicates that Mamdani holds a healthy double-digit lead over Cuomo and the other contenders in November's general election. Mamdani stood at 37% support in the most recent survey, a small-sample Siena Research Institute poll conducted Aug. 4-7, with Cuomo at 23%. Read On The Fox News App Where The New York City Mayoral Race Stands In New Poll Guardian Angels co-founder Curtis Sliwa, who for a second straight election is the Republican mayoral nominee, grabbed 12% support, with Mayor Eric Adams, the embattled incumbent who announced earlier this year that he would seek re-election as an independent candidate, at 7%. Democratic Party mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani takes a photo with a supporter at an anti-Trump event on Staten Island, on Aug. 13, 2025. Also on the ballot in the general election is Jim Walden, a former federal prosecutor running as an independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Walden earlier this summer proposed that an independent survey be conducted in September to determine which candidate would have the best shot of defeating Mamdani, with the other candidates agreeing to drop out. Mamdani Faces Hecklers In Trump Dominated Part Of New York City While Cuomo has partially embraced the proposal, saying he would drop out if Adams were ahead of him in pre-election surveys, Adams and Sliwa have not signed on. Mayor Eric Adams officially launches his independent re-election bid, on June 26, 2025, in New York City. "The people who are running they are harmful to our city and the progress weve made. And I owe it to New Yorkers to get my story out to them and to run a campaign," Adams said this week in a Politico interview as he once again pledged to stay in the race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani Takes Aim At Trump's Immigration Policies In Fiery Staten Island Speech: 'We Are Fighting To Keep Nyc A Sanctuary City' Sliwa, in a FOX Business interview Wednesday, dismissed "this idea of everybody dropping out" and argued that "if we debate the issues, we are going to weaken Zohran Mamdani." Mamdani surged to a primary victory thanks to an energetic campaign that put a major focus on affordability and New York City's high cost of living. It was fueled by a grassroots army of supporters and backing from top national progressive champions, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Mamdani Zings Cuomo In Rent-stabilized Housing Spat During Anti-trump Tour Stop Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani made smart use of social media platforms, including TikTok, as he engaged low-propensity voters. He proposed eliminating fares to ride New York City's vast bus system, making CUNY (City University of New York) "tuition-free," freezing rents on municipal housing, offering "free childcare" for children up to age 5 and setting up government-run grocery stores. New York City mayoral candidates Zohran Mamdani, Eric Adams, Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani, enjoying a lead in the polls, is now training his political fire on the biggest boogeyman in Democrat-dominated New York City President Donald Trump. The candidate this week is crisscrossing New York City on a "Five Boroughs Against Trump" tour. "My administration will be Donald Trumps worst nightmare," Mamdani declared last week, ahead of launching the tour. Original article source: Mamdani rivals defiant against dropping out despite facing long odds in NYC mayor battle NEED TO KNOW A 67-year-old man was arrested and charged with murder and two counts of rape in connection with the death of 24-year-old Samantha Mizzi in 1994, in St Kilda, Australia, Victoria police said The man was identified by local news outlets as Colin George McKane Mizzi was fatally assaulted in St Kilda, a suburb in Melbourne, and was taken to the hospital, after being found by a passerby, where she later died More than three decades after the killing of 24-year-old Samantha Mizzi in Australia, police have made an arrest. Victoria Police in Australia announced in a press release that they have arrested and charged a 67-year-old man who was not identified by name in Ararat, Australia, on Thursday, Aug. 14, in connection to Mizzis death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have not shared further details about what led to the arrest, but said the investigation into her death remains ongoing. Todays arrest and charges highlight that it doesnt matter how many years have passed, detectives remain committed to holding those who are involved in violent crimes to account, Detective Inspector Dean Thomas with the Homicide Squad said in a statement. Victoria Police Samantha Mizzi Samantha Mizzi It also shows that progress can be made on cases, even after decades have passed, and that we can begin the process of providing families with long-needed answers, he added. Mizzi was fatally assaulted in St Kilda a suburb in Melbourne on March 29, 1994, according to police. Her body was located by a passerby in the bushes at the rear of a property on Brighton Road at around 11 p.m. local time that night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After she was found, she was transported to the hospital. However, police said she died the following morning. The 67-year-old man who was identified by The Australian as Colin George McKane has been charged with murder and two counts of rape, according to police. He is scheduled to make an appearance at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday. Getty A stock photo of a Victoria police car A stock photo of a Victoria police car Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. The breakthrough comes thanks to advances in investigative technology including DNA analysis and genetic genealogy that now allow detectives to identify suspects in cases that have remained unsolved for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If there are people out there who have information about a crime such as this, no matter how many years have passed, I can assure you that its never too late to come forward, Thomas said. Any piece of information will be assessed thoroughly by police in the hope it can provide new avenues of enquiry for an investigation, he added. Read the original article on People SALT LAKE CITY (AP) A Rhode Island man accused of faking his death and fleeing the United States to evade rape charges was found guilty late Wednesday of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend in his first of two Utah trials. An eight-person jury in Salt Lake County found Nicholas Rossi guilty of a 2008 rape after a three-day trial in which his accuser and her parents took the stand. Rossi, 38, declined to testify on his own behalf. He will be sentenced on Oct. 20 and is set to stand trial in September on another rape charge in Utah County. First-degree felony rape carries a punishment in Utah of five years to life in prison, said Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place, Gill said in a statement. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable. Utah authorities began searching for Rossi, whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, when he was identified through a decade-old DNA rape kit in 2018. He was among thousands of rape suspects identified and later charged when Utah made a push to clear its rape kit backlog. Months after he was charged in Utah County, an online obituary claimed Rossi died on Feb. 29, 2020, of late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But police in his home state of Rhode Island, along with his former lawyer and a former foster family, cast doubt on whether he was dead. He was arrested in Scotland the following year while receiving treatment for COVID-19 after hospital staff recognized his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Extradited to Utah in January 2024, Rossi insisted he was an Irish orphan named Arthur Knight who was being framed. Investigators say they identified at least a dozen aliases Rossi used over the years to evade capture. He appeared in court this week in a wheelchair, wearing a suit and tie and using an oxygen tank. Rossi's public defender denied the rape claim and urged jurors not to read too much into his move overseas years later. Youre allowed to move, you're allowed to go somewhere else, youre allowed to have a different name, attorney Samantha Dugan said. She declined further comment following the verdict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors painted a picture of an intelligent man who used his charm to take advantage of a vulnerable young woman. The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly. The woman was living with her parents and recovering from a traumatic brain injury when she responded to a personal ad Rossi posted on Craigslist. They began dating and were engaged within about two weeks. She testified Rossi asked her to pay for dates and car repairs, lend him $1,000 so he wouldnt be evicted, and take on debt to buy their engagement rings. He grew hostile soon after their engagement and raped her in his bedroom one night after she drove him home, she said. Deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney Brandon Simmons told jurors Wednesday that the woman did not consent. This is not romantic, this is not her mistaking things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman said her parents' dismissive comments convinced her not to go to the police. She came forward a decade later after seeing him in the news and learning he was accused of another rape from the same year. Rossi's lawyers said the woman built up years of resentment after he made her foot the bill for everything in their monthlong relationship. They argued she accused him of rape to get back at him years later when he was getting media attention, and sought to undermine her credibility with jurors. Rossi's accuser in the Utah County case, who testified at this week's trial, is also a former girlfriend. She went to police at the time of that alleged rape. He is accused of attacking her at his apartment in Orem in September 2008 after she came over to collect money she said he stole from her to buy a computer. When police initially interviewed Rossi, he claimed she raped him and threatened to have him killed. Rossi grew up in foster homes in Rhode Island and returned there before allegedly faking his death. He was previously wanted in the state for failing to register as a sex offender. The FBI says he faces fraud charges in Ohio, where he was convicted of sex-related charges in 2008. NEED TO KNOW Nicholas Rossi, 38, who spent years in Europe to evade prosecution, was convicted Wednesday of a 2008 rape in Orem, Utah, prosecutors said Rossi fled to Scotland in 2017 and faked his own death in 2020, according to authorities He is awaiting trial on another alleged rape charge in Utah County in September A Rhode Island man accused of fleeing to Scotland and faking his own death to evade rape charges has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a former girlfriend in Utah in 2008, according to the Salt Lake County District Attorneys Office. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, after a three-day trial, a jury found Nicholas Edward Rossi guilty of first-degree felony rape, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill announced in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi, 38, a Rhode Island native whose legal name is Nicholas Alahverdian, faces five years to life in the Utah State Correctional Facility when he is sentenced on October 20, Gill said. We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place, Gill said in the statement. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable. Rossi is also awaiting trial on another alleged rape charge in Utah County in September, according to the Associated Press. He pleaded not guilty. Pawtucket Police Department; Firecrest Films via AP, Pool Nicholas Rossi Mugshot; Rossi in court on Monday, Aug. 11 Nicholas Rossi Mugshot; Rossi in court on Monday, Aug. 11 According to the statement from the Salt Lake County district attorney, Rossi and his former girlfriend in the Orem case, identified only as M.B., met online in 2008 and dated for a month between November and December of that year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shortly after they began dating, Rossi told the woman, who was 21 at the time, that they should get married and buy wedding rings. That December, during a trip to a jewelry store to buy the rings, the two got into an argument after Rossi was rude to the girlfriend, according to the district attorney's statement. When they got back to Rossis apartment in Orem, they argued about breaking up and not getting married. During the argument, the defendant threw M.B. on the bed and raped her, Gill said in the statement. In 2017, he fled to Britain or Ireland and ended up in Scotland using one of his many aliases, local authorities said, according to The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sexual assaults first came to the attention of law enforcement in 2018 when Utah authorities reviewing old rape kits identified Rossi as a suspect in another 2008 rape case in Utah County, according to The New York Times. Press Association via AP Images Nicholas Rossi leaving a court in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 2022, after an extradition hearing Nicholas Rossi leaving a court in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 2022, after an extradition hearing In that case, Rossi allegedly raped another woman, also a former girlfriend, at his apartment in Orem in Sept. 2008 when she came to get money she claimed he stole from her, authorities said, CBS News reports. 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. Months after he was charged in that case, and while he was still in Scotland in 2020, Rossi allegedly faked his own death with the help of an online obituary that claimed Nicholas Alahverdian had died on Feb. 29, 2020, of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was arrested the following year at a Glasgow hospital, where he was being treated for COVID-19, after someone recognized his distinctive tattoos shared in an Interpol notice, according to the AP. Insisting he was Arthur Knight of Ireland and that he was being framed, he appeared in court in a wheelchair, wearing an oxygen mask and speaking in a fake British accent, the AP reports. He was extradited from Scotland in Jan. 2024. His attorney did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Read the original article on People MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) A man accused of impersonating law enforcement to receive payments as a part of a popular scam has been extradited from Florida back to Madison County following his arrest. On September 11, 2021, deputies responded to a report of a telephone scam in which the victim was defrauded out of $7,500. MCSO said that the suspect who was identified as 36-year-old Christopher Andrews pretended to be a law enforcement officer as he contacted the victim by phone while using a spoofed phone number matching the Sheriffs Office main line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities told News 19 that Andrews claimed the victim had a failure-to-appear warrant on a federal case. Shortly after, Andrews instructed the victim to make multiple payments using Apple Pay and Green Dot money cards to avoid a potential arrest. Through the course of the investigation authorities were able to identify Andrews as the main suspect of the case. Earlier this month Andrews was found in Escambia County, Florida. He was arrested and extradited back to Madison County to face his charged related to the incident. That is all of the 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 WHNT.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A man is facing an aggravated statutory rape charge for having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl, Memphis Police say. Police took Roman Sanders, 20, into custody. Roman Sanders (SCSO) According to authorities, they responded to a disturbance call on May 29 in the 6100 block of Macon Road. The mother of the 14-year-old girl told police her daughter ran away from home on May 27 and returned on May 29. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man accused of trying to kill wife in car fire also arranged beatdown: MPD She said she became suspicious and went through her daughters phone and found messages that showed she was engaging in a sexual relationship with Sanders. Investigators say they interview the young girl told them she met Sanders on Instagram two years ago. The victim also told investigators she and Sanders engaged in a sexual act twice in the last few months, with the most recent time being when she ran away from home. Sanders was identified in a six-person photo lineup. A bond has not been set. There is no court date scheduled for him yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. A federal judge on Wednesday morning sentenced a failed political candidate to 80 years in prison for plotting a scheme in late 2022 to shoot up the homes of two Bernalillo County commissioners and two state lawmakers. U.S. District Judge Kea Riggs imposed well beyond the mandatory minimum sentence requested by 42-year-old Solomon Pena, saying he is "a clear danger to the community." "It makes the average person running for public office reconsider it," Riggs said. "It's beyond a miracle that no one was hurt or killed." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal criminal case has been followed closely, a high-profile example of political violence in recent years. Pena, a Republican, had lost a race in November 2022 for Albuquerques House District 14. He was accused of creating and carrying out the plot to shoot up politicians' homes soon after and was arrested in January 2023. State Sen. Linda Lopez and the wife of state Rep. Javier Martinez told the court during the sentencing hearing about how Pena's plot had struck fear into them and their families, and prosecutors requested a sentence of 90 years to life. The judge also ordered a criminal fine of $250,000 for Pena, noting records showed he had "significant financial assets." This is a developing story. Check back for more details. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Police say a man arrested Wednesday for driving a stolen 2020 Dodge Charger from the Memphis International Airports long-term parking garage said he was too large to steal the vehicle. Anthony Taylor, 23, was charged with driving while his license was suspended, felony vandalism, theft of property, violation of vehicle registration, reckless driving, and drag racing. In July, the victim reached out to WREG and told us that his 2020 Dodge Charger was stolen from the airports covered parking garage when he returned from a work trip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Car thief steals Dodge Charger at Memphis Airport According to reports, on Aug. 13, police and FBI agents located a dark gray Dodge Charger parked on the street in front of a residence in the 900 block of Deb Drive with a Mississippi license plate. Police said the plate showed the car was registered to a 1993 Chevrolet Silverado. The Vehicle Identification Number came back as a stolen 2020 Dodge Charger. According to MPD, officers saw a man wearing all black get into the vehicle and drive eastbound on Frayser Boulevard, and then turn south onto Thomas Street. Police said he was driving more than 100 mph, and an officer lost sight of the vehicle southbound from I-40 on Watkins. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MPD located the parked vehicle on Watkins, south of Chelsea, after it was involved in an accident. Memphis man accused of home invasion, stealing PlayStation 5 They said they saw Taylor standing on the sidewalk near the back of the Charger and took him into custody. Taylor refused to speak to investigators, but he reportedly admitted that he saw officers checking the VIN before fleeing the area. According to reports, Taylor also told officers he doesnt steal cars because he weighs 400 pounds and cannot fit through a window, even though police never mentioned the vehicle was stolen. They said Taylor also told them he bought the car for $5,500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports said Taylors drivers license was suspended on April 7 for failing to file insurance. Taylors bond is set $20,000, and he is scheduled to appear in court on Friday. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) A 36-year-old man was arrested for allegedly stealing over $14,000 worth of automotive transmissions from a business on Tuesday, Aug. 12, in Northwest El Paso, according to the El Paso County Sheriffs Office. According to the Sheriffs Office, Ismael Soria Zamarripa, 36, is facing charges of theft of property and criminal trespass. He was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility with a total set bond of $10,100. Ismael Soria Zamarripa. Photo courtesy of the El Paso County Sheriffs Office. On Aug. 12, deputies with the Sheriffs Office were dispatched to a report of a theft in progress at a business along the 6600 block of Doniphan Drive, EPCSO said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Sheriffs Office said when deputies arrived on scene, they made contact with Zamarripa, who was on the property without the owners permission. The investigation revealed that Zamarripa had unlawfully taken 18 automotive transmissions from the location, with a total estimated value of $14,400, EPCSO said. According to the Sheriffs Office, Zamarripa was then taken into custody without 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 KTSM 9 News. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A Mexican citizen has been charged after illegally re-entering the U.S. following a prison sentence. The U.S. Attorneys Office (USAO) for the District of Columbia said that 28-year-old Saul Castillo-Crespo was convicted in August of 2017 for kidnapping and sexually abusing an intoxicated stranger in Northwest D.C. He was sentenced to five years in prison. The USAO said that several years later, in March of 2025, Castillo-Crespo re-entered the country illegally. He failed to register as a sex offender, violating the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement White House boasts arrest numbers after Trumps takeover of DC Police Metropolitan Police Department officers arrested him on June 27 and charged him with unlawful entry and destroying property. At the time of his arrest, Castillo-Crespo identified himself as David Crespo. A few weeks later, on July 16, law enforcement fingerprinted him. The FBI identified him as Castillo-Crespo, and United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that he was known and had been previously deported. Court documents state that on May 7, 2017, Castillo-Crespo found the victim, who was extremely intoxicated and unable to walk, on a sidewalk near Lafayette Square in D.C. early in the morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She asked him to take her home, and he hailed a cab, instead bringing her back to his apartment building on Seventh Street NW. Officials said that the victim did not want to enter Castillo-Crespos apartment, trying to push him away and go back to the elevator to leave. He blocked her and pulled her back, eventually picking her up and carrying her to the fourth-floor staircase. The USAO said that he sexually assaulted her there. The buildings surveillance cameras captured his actions. This defendant has repeatedly crossed the border illegally to commit multiple crimes in the District of Columbia. Hes a poster boy for the kind of threat that we are determined to remove from our community, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Man arrested in Februarys fatal crash GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) A 47-year-old Grand Junction man was recently charged with vehicular homicide and reckless driving, connected to a deadly crash in February. Jeremy Kaufmann is accused of driving his vehicle into a Chevrolet Trailblazer driven by Peggy Chesney, who later died from her injuries, according to the arrest affidavit. Kaufmann suffered fractures in his ribs, face and right knee. The crash happened on Feb. 22 at the intersection of Patterson Road and 25 Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grand Junction officer Vaughn Soderquist said in the affidavit that after arriving on the scene, he was able to look at footage of the crash. The video reportedly showed Chesney turning onto Patterson Road. Around this time, Kauffman was going eastbound on Patterson, driving at what appeared to be faster than other cars driving through the intersection, according to the affidavit. The video then shows Chesney and Kauffmans vehicles colliding head-on. Chesneys car lifted off the ground and spun counterclockwise before landing and coming to a rest, according to the affidavit. Kauffmans vehicle would go on to hit a traffic light pole before stopping. After they were both transported to St. Marys Medical Center, Kauffman allegedly told an officer he was speeding when the crash occurred. The affidavit stated Kauffman was cooperative with law enforcement and willingly signed a consent for a blood draw and medical records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A witness of the crash told police he saw Kauffman speeding as they were stopped at a light on 24 1/2 and Patterson roads. Once the light turned green, he witnessed Kauffmans Firebird reportedly overtaking all the cars in the left lane from the right-hand lane. Soderquist wrote that he tried to speak with Chesney about the accident, but she could hardly remember any details of the crash or that day. She previously told another officer she believed she stopped at the intersection before her vehicle was struck. Chesney later died from her injuries on March 7. She was 87. As part of the investigation, Soderquist reviewed dash cam footage from the Firebird as Kauffman gave consent for the officer to do so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soderquist found through the footage dated from Feb. 7-22 that Kauffman allegedly drove at extensive speeds on several occasions. This included going 71 mph in a 35-mph zone and 85 mph while the speed limit was 45. The dash cam has a speed indicator at the bottom of the video, according to the affidavit. On the day of the crash, the dash cam showed Kauffman was going 61 mph when he collided with Chesneys vehicle, Soderquist wrote. The speed limit is 40 mph. On July 1, Soderquist later received the Colorado Bureau of Investigations blood results for Chesney and Kauffman. Chesneys results showed no signs of drugs, while Kauffmans had cannabis in his system. Based on the investigation, Kauffman was charged with vehicular homicide-reckless driving, and nine counts of reckless driving. The latter charges stem from his dash camera video. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kauffman will be in court for a return filing of charges on Aug. 22. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WesternSlopeNow.com. An employee at the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has been arrested for throwing a Subway sandwich at a federal agent deployed to Washington DC as part of President Donald Trump's vow to crackdown on crime. Sean Charles Dunn, who had worked in the DOJ Criminal Division, was fired after video of the incident emerged. He is being charged with felony assault. The presence of federal law enforcement agents, as well as the National Guard, has led to widespread anger in the mostly Democratic city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, a Republican, has said the deployment is necessary to fight crime and remove "drugged-out maniacs and homeless people". Local police data shows violent crime is at a 30-year low in Washington DC. Mr Dunn is seen in pink clutching the sandwich he is accused of throwing at an agent moments later [Getty Images] According to charging documents, Mr Dunn allegedly threw a "submarine-style sandwich" at a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer on Sunday. In a video of the incident, which prosecutors cite in their charges, the suspect is heard calling the agents "fascists" and screaming profanities directed at them. "Why are you here? I don't want you in my city," he yells before crossing the road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He later returns and is seen hurling the wrapped sandwich into the chest of a uniformed agent, who appears to be wearing a bulletproof vest. He then flees on foot as officers give chase. According to prosecutors, Mr Dunn confessed after he was arrested on Wednesday, telling investigators: "I did it. I threw a sandwich." US Attorney General Pam Bondi, the highest-ranking law enforcement agent in the US and oversees the DOJ, posted about the incident on social media on Thursday. "I just learned that this defendant worked at the Department of Justice NO LONGER. Not only is he FIRED, he has been charged with a felony." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Dunn had been working as a trial attorney for the Office of International Affairs within the DOJ's Criminal Division, according to CBS news, the BBC's US partner. US Attorney for Washington DC Jeanine Pirro said in a video announcing Mr Dunn's arrest that he "thought it was funny. Well, he doesn't think it's funny today, because we charged with him with a felony." "So there, stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else," she continued. The unusual nature of the incident led to several jokes online, including the comment "assault with a deli weapon" - a gag which received more than 1,500 upvotes on Reddit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A local judge declined to press charges, before a federal judge permitted assault charges to be filed, CBS reports. Mr Dunn is currently free on bail and is facing up to eight years in prison. Officials have not said whether the officer suffered any injuries in the incident. About 100 people have been arrested since the agents and troops began arriving in the US capital on Monday. Besides troops from the National Guard, there are agents deployed from the FBI, the US Marshals Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Secret Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deployments have led to protests in the District, which as the seat of the federal government does not have the same rights as a US state. In addition to deployments of those federal officers, Trump has placed the city's police department under direct federal control, using provisions laid out in the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. That act was instituted by former President Richard Nixon in 1973 to allow residents of Washington DC - where approximately 700,000 people live without official voting representation in Congress - to elect a city council and a mayor. [BBC] Follow the twists and turns of Trump's second term with North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher's weekly US Politics Unspun newsletter. Readers in the UK can sign up here. Those outside the UK can sign up here. CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. (WSAV) The Chatham County Police Department (CCPD) arrested a man after responding to reports of a stabbing in the zero block of West Gateway Boulevard Thursday morning. The stabbing occurred around 8 a.m. Tyres Key, a 23-year-old, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault. CCPD said it was an incident between two people who knew each other and was not random. One person received non life-threatening injuries from the incident. The victim was transported to the hospital for treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with additional information is asked to contact police. Anonymous tips can be sent through the Chatham County Police Department app, or the Departments online tip form found at https://police.chathamcountyga.gov/Tips. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. DECATUR, Ala. (WHNT) The Decatur Police Department says a man was arrested Tuesday for what the police are calling years of recurring theft from a local business. DPD said Joel Phillip Ghrigsby, 63, was arrested and charged with first-degree theft after the search of a home in Trinity. Lockheed Martin to open large missile assembly building in Courtland early 2026 According to the department, the investigation into the theft began on August 6, when a Decatur business owner reported an internal theft at their business in the 2300 block of 6th Ave. SE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said during the investigation, they found Ghrigsby was involved and tied to what police called multiple years of recurring theft from the business. DPD said investigators found evidence that linked Ghrigsby to over $114,000 of property theft from the business. The department said on August 12, Decatur police, with help from the Lawrence County Sheriffs Office, served a search and arrest warrant in the 20000 block of County Road 460 in Trinity. DPD said Ghrigsby was located at the home and arrested. Authorities said Ghrigsby was transported to the Morgan County Jail and held on a $30,000 cash bond, per a Morgan County Circuit Court Judge. Jail records show he has since bonded out. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com. TERRA ALTA, W.Va. (WBOY) A man has been charged after troopers say he beat a victim to the point where he stopped breathing during an attack in Preston County. On July 12, troopers with the Preston County detachment of the West Virginia State Police responded to a residence on Sanders Street in Terra Alta in reference to a reported fight taking place, according to a criminal complaint. When troopers arrived, they observed a victim lying on the ground in a driveway who appeared to have been in a violent, physical altercation and had multiple lacerations and bleeding on his face, troopers said. John-Paul Koch At that time, troopers said they made contact with John-Paul Koch, 31, of Terra Alta, who also appeared to have sustained lacerations and bleeding on his face, and learned that Koch, along with two other individuals, took part in attacking the victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A witness to the incident said that the attackers punched and kicked the victim in his torso, head and face multiple different times and the victim received multiple stomps to his head while lying on the ground by the attackers bare feet, according to the complaint. Harrison County woman allegedly stole VA disability benefits Troopers said the victim later stopped breathing while in the care of EMS workers and had to be intubated. An air medical service then transported the victim to Ruby Memorial Hospital. Koch has been charged with malicious wounding. He is being held in Tygart Valley Regional Jail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this time, the two other individuals involved in the attack have not been charged. 12 News will update this story with more information when and if it becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. VOLGA, W.Va. (WBOY) A man has been charged after allegedly setting fire to an abandoned house in Barbour County. On Aug. 9, law enforcement were alerted to a fire taking place in the Volga area of Barbour County at an abandoned home, according to a press release sent out by the West Virginia State Fire Marshals Office. Bricen Siron During the investigation, marshals determined the fire was arson related, and determined that Bricen Siron, 20, was the one who set the blaze, the release states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harrison County woman allegedly stole VA disability benefits After a warrant was issued for Siron on Aug. 14, he confessed to setting the house on fire during an interview with investigators with the fire marshals office, according to the release. Siron has been charged with first-degree arson. He is being held in Tygart Valley Regional Jail. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. LAKE COUNTY, Tenn. Austin Drummond, the man charged in the quadruple murder of a family in West Tennessee, appeared back in court on Zoom Thursday morning. His case is to be continued until September 4 in Lake County. The state says it intends to seek the death penalty for Drummond. Dearrah Sanders, who is charged with Accessory After the Fact to First Degree Murder in the case, also appeared in court on Zoom. Her bond was reduced to $25,000, and she is set to return for a preliminary hearing on September 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tanaka Brown, who is charged with Accessory After the Fact to First Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence, appeared in court on Zoom. He is also set to return to court for a preliminary hearing and motion to reduce bond on September 12. Who is Austin Drummond? Records show Vice Lords tie, violent past Last week, a judge entered a not guilty plea on behalf of Drummond since he had no attorney at that time. The judge has since appointed Bryan Huffman of Huffman/Mason Law Firm to represent Drummond. Drummond is currently held in jail without bond. He is charged with four counts of First Degree Murder, one count of Aggravated Kidnapping, four counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and one count of Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Dangerous Felony. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goodman acknowledged those charged with accessory after the fact of first-degree murder did assist Drummond by giving him rides, providing phones, clothes, and shelter, but Goodman isnt ready to release a motive for the murders Drummonds charged with. Drummonds attorney asked that a restraining order be lifted so Drummond can have contact with his girlfriend, Kaitlyn Speed, the sister of Courtney Rose, who was allegedly killed by Drummond. The familys indicated, at least reached out to me that she would at least like to give him a message. We dont want to violate any of the no contact restraining orders so I just wanted to clarify and at that time the judge has said, no, thats going to remain in place, said District Attorney Danny Goodman. Austin Drummond held in jail without bond; state seeks death penalty Drummond had been on the run since July 29, when the bodies of James Wilson, 21, Adrianna Williams, 20, Cortney Rose, 38, and Braydon Williams, 15, were found along Carrington Road in Tiptonville. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An infant who was related to the victims was also found safe in front of a house in Dyer County. The baby is safe and healthy, authorities said. On August 5, Drummond was captured after the Jackson Police Department said he had been living in a pool house. Giovontie Thomas, 29, Tanaka Brown, 29, and Dearrah Sanders, 23, were all arrested and charged with Accessory After the Fact to First Degree Murder. Brown is also facing a Tampering with Evidence charge. Allegations of drug smuggling involve Austin Drummond The childs grandfather told WREG that the baby is in protective custody, but theyre hoping to be reunited soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, the allegation is they gave assistance after the murder had taken place. Just assisting him as far as maybe giving rides, phones, clothes, shelter, things like that, said District Attorney Danny Goodman. At this time, Goodman says the motive for the murders remains unclear; however, he says the DAs office has ideas of what it could be. Third arrest made in TN quadruple murder: TBI Wilsons father told WREG that he and his family are going through a difficult time, but they remain committed to receiving justice. Obviously theyre pretty upset, emotional. They have a lot of emotions. They have sadness. They have anger. But, I have talked with them and theyre doing the best they can, Goodman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get our baby back, you know our grandbaby, thats all we have left of our son and Adrianna, 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 WREG.com. Tyreek Brown of Pelham, Georgia, was found guilty of wire fraud in a pandemic-related scheme involving fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loans he took part in with two family members. Brown was convicted on Tuesday after a two-day trial, facing up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a $1 million fine. His sentencing date is yet to be determined. Our office will pursue justice for these types of criminal schemes that deliberately defraud taxpayers, stated U.S. Attorney William R. Will Keyes. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Browns codefendants, Sherronica Jackson and Alan Brown, both pleaded guilty to bank fraud charges related to the same scheme. They are scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jackson applied for a PPP loan in March 2021, falsely claiming a gross income of $97,000 for 2019 without identifying a legitimate business. She received a $20,207 loan. Alan Brown also fraudulently claimed loans for a non-existent contracting business, asserting a false income of $101,005 for 2019. He received loans totaling $20,833. Tyreek Brown applied for two loans as a sole proprietor, using false income claims and the same address as his codefendants. He received loans totaling $20,833. The fraudulent activities were investigated by the Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, as part of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee Taskforce. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner is overseeing the proceedings. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A man suffered life-threatening injuries when he was struck by a pickup truck in the northeast valley. The crash was reported shortly after 10:30 p.m. Wednesday on Craig Road, east of Lamb Boulevard. Las Vegas Metropolitan police said the man was crossing Craig outside of a marked crosswalk when he was struck. The driver stayed at the scene and didnt show any signs of impairment, police said. The man, between 30 to 40 years old, was transported to University Medical Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man was arrested in connection with a stabbing about 8:30 a.m. at a downtown bus station. Read next: Man charged in Warren murder Marquis Cambridge, 30, is charged with felonious assault, a second-degree felony, and will be booked into the Mahoning County jail once he is finished being examined at St. Elizabeth Health Center. Cambridge was arrested after a man was stabbed during an argument at about 8:30 a.m. at the Western Reserve Transit Authority bus station at West Federal Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim was treated on the scene by paramedics. Cambridge had to be stunned when he was arrested, so police took him to the hospital to be examined. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. CHICAGO (WGN) A man was shot and killed Wednesday evening in a parking lot in Austin. Chicago police said the shooting happened just before 6:15 p.m. in the 5000 block of West Madison Street. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines A 42-year-old man was in the parking lot when an unknown vehicle drove up. Thats when someone from inside the vehicle pulled out a gun and fired shots, hitting the man in the chest, according to investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the man was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital where he died. No arrests have been made and detectives are investigating. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) Aloysius Albritton is in the Virginia Beach Correctional Jail, accused of recording someone in the bathroom of a Virginia Beach Crunch Fitness in late May. Search warrant paperwork describes Albritton standing on top of a toilet to look into the stall next to his, later taking out his cell phone to record the person next to him. An employee showed police video footage of Albritton following the victim into Crunch Fitness right before this happened. Albritton is facing five charges related to filming a nude person without consent. This is not the first time Aloysius Albritton is behind bars for something like this. In 2017, he pleaded guilty to recording himself sexually assaulting a disabled man. The Baynet in Maryland reported on his 2019 arrest for recording someone in the mens restroom of a Walmart. 10 On Your Side covered his arrest for recording a police officer in a Wawa bathroom. In court paperwork for the most recent case under prior criminal record, a magistrate simply wrote a lot. Below is WAVY TV coverage of Albritton from 2017: 10 On Your Side got in touch with someone who was in the same jail pod as Albritton back in 2019. He asked to stay anonymous. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he first came into the pod, he wouldnt talk to anybody, he said. He was just a loner by himself, but he would sing in the morning. The two started talking since he was into making music at the time. He said that he was accused of recording somebody and he was trying to give me excuses to why that wasnt true. And I was just sitting there like, nah bro, too many excuses.' The anonymous interviewee told me about Albritton spying on people in the showers and sniffing his cellmates towels. Within a matter of days, Albritton was moved elsewhere. Yeah, he was weird. He didnt stay in there for more than two days. It was only two days, he said. I dont think hes going to stop doing stuff like this if I want to be frank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court paperwork shows Albritton has worked at New Hope Church for about seven years, making $1,800 per month. They also show him as having a doctorate in Theology. The anonymous interviewee told us Albritton would go by a fake name to inmates and seemingly lied about his past frequently. Albrittons next court appearance is on Oct. 14. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) A man on parole for a federal weapons charge was sentenced Thursday in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court to one year in prison after a guilty plea in July to a third-degree felony count of sexual battery. Read next: Man in custody after early morning stabbing at downtown bus station The sentence received by Brandon Turjonis, 37, was recommended by the attorneys in the case and adopted by Judge Anthony Donofrio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turjonis has been in jail since September on the charge and will receive credit for time served. Although that sentence will expire next month, he is expected to remain in custody on a federal parole violation. One of his attorneys told Judge Donofrio he expects Turjonis to receive an additional 18 months in prison because of the violation. Turjonis served a federal prison sentence on a weapons conviction stemming from a 2020 standoff at a home on the South Side. While on parole for that charge, he is accused of contacting the victim despite a no-contact order, including 232 times while he was in the county jail awaiting a parole violation hearing in federal court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Turjonis was being investigated for the relationship at the time he was accused of violating the no-contact order. Attorney Scott Cochrane, who represented the victim, told the judge his client approved of the plea deal and the damage Turjonis has done to her is extreme. This has destroyed her life, Cochrane said. Turjonis declined to speak before he was 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 WKBN.com. (FOX40.COM) Homicide Detectives and crime scene investigators are investigating the death of a man who was found in a car with a gunshot wound in Lank Park on Thursday morning, according to the Sacramento Police Department. Video Above: Fatal shooting suspect sentenced in Sacramento Police said officers responded to the request of a medical call related to a vehicle collision around 1 a.m. in the 1400 block of 13th Avenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers arrived to find a man in a vehicle with a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The incidents under investigation. Over 30 rounds fired in shooting near North Highlands Anyone with information is asked to contact SPD at 916-808-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at 916-443-4357. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for an up to $1,000 reward. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. Aug. 14GRAFTON, N.D. A truck driver from Massachusetts was found dead in his truck in a parking lot in Grafton. According to a release sent to the media by the Walsh County Sheriff's Office, the driver was a 46-year-old from Springfield, Mass. The release said Hanson Auto and Implement in Grafton received a call from a trucking company after not having contact with the driver for a period of time. On Wednesday, Aug. 13, an employee found the man dead in his semi truck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release said the man, who is not being identified due to ongoing next-of-kin notification, was taken to the University of North Dakota Pathology Lab in Grand Forks for an autopsy. Sheriff Ron Jurgens said nothing suspicious has been noted as of this time, and the cause of death is pending results of the autopsy. There is no danger to the public, he said. ST. LOUIS A Velda Village Hills man appeared in U.S. District Court in downtown St. Louis on Thursday to be sentenced for robbing at five banks in the area. Prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said Derrick Snulligan, 62, pleaded guilty in March to five counts of bank robbery. The judge overseeing the case sentenced Snulligan to 105 months in federal prison. Snulligan faced up to 20 years on each count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, Snulligan, who is also known as Derrick Jackson, would hand the teller a threatening note demanding cash in each of the robberies. Grand Jury indictment reveals more about daycare death Snulligan targeted the same Northwoods bank on April 18 and Aug. 28, 2023. He went to the bank a third time on Oct. 13, 2023, but a teller activated an alarm and told Snulligan leave. Snulligan was wearing a mask in each incident. On June 24, 2024, Snulligan walked into a Hazelwood credit union and demanded 6-one hundred dollar bills, 4-fifty dollar bills, 10-ten dollar bills, and 20-5 dollar bills. The teller complied and Snulligan fled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just three days later, Snulligan went to credit unions in St. Louis City and Florissant with similar notes. After those last two robberies on June 27, Snulligan fled in a blue Buick Encore. Investigators were able to trace the vehicle to Snulligan, who confessed to the robberies. Any money that wasnt seized at the time of his arrest, Snulligan repaid before sentencing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A man has been arrested after the glass door of a shop in Nottingham was smashed. Police said officers were called to the CeX store, in the Victoria Centre, at about 19:00 BST on Wednesday to a report of an angry and abusive customer. The force said the man, who had a hammer, became aggressive after being told the shop had shut. Staff fled in fear after the man kicked the door open and entered the shop, officers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One member of staff was standing near the glass door when it smashed and suffered injuries to his hands. Police said officers arrived but the man resisted as they arrested him. One officer sustained a cut to his shoulder and another sustained cuts to his arms from falling on to the broken glass, police said. The suspect also headbutted a third officer as he was placed into a police van, officer added. The 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage, possession of an offensive weapon and assault and remains in custody. Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210. Related internet links WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) A Wichita Falls man is facing two felony charges and a quarter-million dollar bond after police said he pointed a loaded shotgun at two people. Robert Noble is charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Just after 4:30 a.m., Wednesday, August 13, police were sent to a home in the 3100 block of Southeast Drive because Noble had threatened to kill someone with a shotgun. Police said when they arrived, a gray sedan was leaving the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When police walked up to the house, two people came out and said Noble had just left, and that he had a shotgun with him. One of the victims told police that Noble had gotten upset during an argument, gone to another room, come back pointing a shotgun at her, and verbally threatened to kill her before leaving the house. According to the police, Noble then called 911, saying he had been attacked and had fled the scene. Police were able to ping Nobles phone, and officers said he had been found a block behind the victims house. Authorities said Noble was then Mirandized and questioned about what had happened. Noble corroborated the witnesss stories- but told police he didnt remember verbally threatening either victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers said they found the shotgun in the trunk of Nobles vehicle with two 12-gauge buckshot shotgun shells loaded into the weapon. Noble remains jailed this evening, with bonds totaling $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 Texomashomepage.com. A businessman found guilty of a 630,000 agricultural fraud has been jailed for five years. Barry Mackland, 50, of Aberdeen, pretended to businesses that cheques he presented to them for tractors and machinery would be honoured. His offending took place in 2022 and involved two firms in Forfar, one in Stonehaven, and a fourth in Lincolnshire. Mackland was convicted after an earlier trial, and was jailed at the High Court in Glasgow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The High Court in Edinburgh previously heard how Mackland had insufficient funds to make the payments after obtaining machinery. Prosecutors originally charged with him causing businesses to lose more than 1.7m. Defence counsel David Moggach said Mackland had not committed fraud or theft but had been unable to repay debts. 'Not a victimless crime' Jurors acquitted him of a number of charges, but convicted him on four charges of fraud and theft. Moira Orr, who leads on Major Crime for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, said: "Fraud is not a victimless crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It strikes at and erodes the basis of trust upon which all businesses rightly depend. We take such criminality very seriously. "Businesses and individuals suffered considerable financial harm as a consequence of Barry Mackland's crimes." Police are investigating after a shooting at a Tampa apartment complex left a man dead Thursday morning. Officers were called to the Silver Oaks Apartments in the 4200 block of Kenneth Court about 10:20 a.m. for reports of gunshots, the Tampa Police Department said in a news release. When officers arrived, security personnel from the complex were providing first aid to a man with gunshot wounds. Police provided emergency medical care until Tampa Fire Rescue arrived. The man, who was in his early 20s, was taken to a hospital, where he died of his injuries, police said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A second man in his early 20s was detained near the scene, and the gun believed to be used in the shooting was taken into evidence. The man has been cooperating with the investigation, police said. Early evidence suggests that the men knew each other and the shooting stemmed from an escalating domestic dispute, the news release states. The shooting remains under investigation, and police will consult with the state attorneys office to determine whether charges will be filed, the news release states. No further information was released. PUTNAM COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) More than 20 months after a Putnam County toddler died from blunt force injuries, his mothers boyfriend at the time of the incident pleaded guilty to murder and received a decades-long sentence. The Putnam County Sheriffs Office said it received a call about an unresponsive 2-year-old on Dec. 2, 2023. When deputies arrived at the scene, they reportedly found a toddler with bruising and swelling on his head. The boy was taken to Cookeville Regional Medical Center and then transported to Monroe Carell Jr. Childrens Hospital at Vanderbilt, where personnel determined he had suffered a major traumatic brain injury, according to officials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DECEMBER 2023: Man arrested for murder after death of Putnam County child The toddler, identified as Ventura Mora-Francisco, died from his injuries on Dec. 5, 2023, authorities said. Eight days later, law enforcement announced that Venturas mothers boyfriend, Ashton Cole Sensing, was wanted in connection with the childs death. At the time of the incident, the then-22-year-old was reportedly babysitting Ventura and three other children while the mother was at work. After the investigation began, Sensing allegedly fled the jurisdiction to avoid arrest, with help from the toddlers mother, Sara Mora. The sheriffs office said Mora told law enforcement she had taken Sensing to an undisclosed location in Ashland City and later brought him back to Putnam County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Sensing was arrested in Putnam County for first-degree murder of a child and aggravated child abuse on Dec. 14, 2023, about two weeks before Mora was taken into custody for accessory after the fact, according to authorities. DECEMBER 2023: Mother arrested in connection with child death case in Putnam County Since then, District Attorney General Bryant Dunaway said Mora has pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact for assisting Sensing in his flight. When deputies were at the home, Sensing reportedly said the 2-year-old had fallen into a small air vent on the floor then fell again, causing the child to become unresponsive while Sensing was sleeping on the couch in the living room area. However, Sensing later admitted to getting upset with the child multiple times throughout the day, which led to him throwing the child into a wall and hitting him, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dunaway said the medical examiner determined Ventura died from multiple blunt force injuries, with the manner of death deemed homicide. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee More than a year later, on Thursday, Aug. 14, Dunaway said Sensing appeared before Putnam County Criminal Court and pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The toddlers father, Juan Francisco who was involved in the case and consulted throughout the process reportedly supported the terms of the plea. According to Dunaway, Francisco made an emotional victim impact statement in court Thursday morning, saying, in part, although this case may close today, our love for him will never endthe pain of planning his funeral rather than his birthday is unbearable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sensing was sentenced to 40 years to serve at 100%, Dunaway said. Dunaway said the Putnam County Sheriffs Office investigated the toddlers death, but other Child Protective Investigative Team agencies were involved in the case, including the DAs office, the Tennessee Department of Childrens Services, and the Upper Cumberland Child Advocacy Center. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com The abuse of a child is inexcusable and the loss of a this childs life due to abuse is so very tragic and heartbreaking. The law requires the reporting of suspected abuse. If you see something, you have to say something. Children deserve to be protected, Dunaway wrote on Facebook. Please pray for healing for this family. May God comfort little V.F. in heaven. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) A man was tearfully reunited with his American Bully dog days after the pup was snatched on a Bronx subway train over the weekend, according to police. Overwhelmed and I want to cry. Im in a big city in New York, you may not find your dog, Charles Williams told PIX11 News. Sources said a good Samaritan found the 2-year-old brown and black dog and dropped it off at the 44th Precinct in the Bronx on Thursday morning. Detectives then called Williams to give him the good news. As an officer walked out of the precinct with the leashed dog, Williams and the excited pup happily greeted each other with plenty of hugs and kisses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My anxiety was up. I suffer from depression, and I was very depressed, Williams said. He depends on me, and I depend and him. And I feel like I let him down, and dont worry, it will never happen again. The 45-year-old owner told PIX11 News he was on the D train early Sunday morning to escape the heat and fell asleep because he was tired. Police said the suspect allegedly took the dog while Williams was asleep on a northbound D train near the Bainbridge Avenue and East 206th Street station at around 6 a.m. There have been no arrests. The investigation is ongoing. Police are searching for a man who allegedly took a subway riders dog in the Bronx on Aug. 10, 2025. (Credit: NYPD) Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mira Wassef is a digital reporter who has covered news and sports in the NYC area for more than a decade. She has been with PIX11 News for two years. See more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. A man convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriends uncle at a Long Island backyard party in July 2021 has been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, prosecutors said Thursday. Paulin Cerisier, 29, of Pennsylvania, was accused of arriving at a party in Amityville in the early hours of July 18, 2021, then covertly approaching Maresse DickersonStevenson and shooting him in the left shoulder without provocation, according to the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office. The victim was pronounced dead a short time later, prosecutors said. Cerisier fled the scene and evaded capture for three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was arrested at a hotel in Washington County, Pa., in July 2024 and was indicted the following month. On June 11, 2025, a Suffolk County jury found Cerisier guilty of one count of second-degree murder and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, charges stemming from what District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney described as a cold-blooded, unprovoked attack on an innocent man at a backyard party. On Thursday, Cerisier was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision, officials said. While todays sentence does not bring back Maresse DickersonStevenson, it does ensure that there was justice for the victim and his family, Tierney said in a press release. Far too often, lives are being lost or permanently altered due to violence. I will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue strong and fair prosecutions against those who endanger our communities. CATLETTSBURG A 28-year-old man was sentenced to four years of imprisonment Thursday on a first-degree sexual abuse charge. Nathaniel Lesniak was in Boyd County Circuit Court via videoconference from the county jail in front of Judge John Vincent. Vincent relayed the sentence of four years of active time. Lesniak must register as a sex offender and must have no contact with the victim. Lesniak was initially charged and indicted in March 2023 when he admitted to being a rapist. According to court records, Lesniak sexually assaulted an Alzheimers patient at a local nursing home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lesniaks mental competency was an area of concern throughout the judicial process. The Kentucky Correctional Psychiatric Center provided treatment in order to restore competency. Following a July competency hearing, the court determined the defendant was competent for the case to move forward. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) D.C. police said a man was hospitalized after he was stabbed in Northwest overnight. According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the stabbing took place around 12:20 a.m. on Aug. 14 in the 1800 block of Harvard Street. There, police found a man suffering from stab wounds. Woman shot in Northeast DC dies in hospital; MPD continues investigation He was taken to the hospital for treatment, and the extent of his injuries is unknown as of Thursday morning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C. police noted that a suspect was arrested at the scene. Check DCNewsNow.com for updates. To keep up with the latest news and weather updates, download our Mobile App on iPhone or Android. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) A man from Venezuela arrested on sex crimes charges was indicted by a federal grand jury. Kleider Enrique Garcia Ochoa, 30, was formally charged with attempted enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. He pleaded not guilty to charges. Kleider Enrique Garcia Ochoa, 30, was indicted for child exploitation and obscenity charges. The Department of Justice said Ochoa used social media apps in March to try to convince someone he believed to be a 15-year-old Baton Rouge teen to engage in an illegal sexual relationship. He allegedly transferred obscene material. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ochoa was arrested by Livingston Parish deputies earlier this year. Jail records available online show that he remains in the parish detention center on a $200,000 bond. Federal officials said he faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison, a $250,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and would have to register as a sex offender if convicted. The DOJ said he could be deported from the U.S. after his sentence. Former Port Allen mayor accused of sexual misconduct involving juvenile Latest News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Louisiana First News. MANCHESTER, Conn. (WTNH) Registration for the 89th annual Manchester Road Race will open up on Sept. 1, according to race officials Thursday. Officials said thousands of runners are expected to compete in the 4.737-mile Thanksgiving Day race. Manchester Road Race shrinks? This fall, food insecurity will be the primary charitable focus of the race. Instead of awarding grants to a number of diverse charities and nonprofits, the funds will go to just two: Connecticut Foodshare and Manchester Area Conference of Churches Charities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a pressing need at Connecticuts food banks right now, and were hoping that our road race can make a substantial contribution to address it, race president Tris Carta said. Manchester Road Race donates over $100K in proceeds Thanksgiving is on Nov. 27 this year. Race registration will be available on the Manchester Road Race website. The entry fee will be $32 for runners for sign up online before 11:59 p.m. EST on Sept. 30. After that, the fee increases to $37 on Oct. 1 and $42 on Nov. 22. Registration will close on Nov. 25 at 11:59 p.m. EST. You cannot register on race day. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Thunderstorms are set to disrupt the heat in some parts of the UK after the Met Office issued a yellow weather warning. Parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland are forecast to see severe thunderstorms through Thursday and heading into Friday. Large areas have been issued yellow weather warnings, with the conditions threatening to be severe until 10pm on Thursday. In Scotland, the warning continues from Wednesday, while it began in Ireland from midday on Thursday. A yellow weather warning for thunderstorms is in place for parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland on Thursday, both lasting until 10pm (Met Office) The Met Office said 20 to 40mm of rain could fall in less than an hour in Scotland, and as much as 50 to 70mm in two hours. In Ireland, 40mm is expected in less than an hour, and up to 50mm in total. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the rainy conditions, the warm weather is set to persist as the UK continues to experience its fourth heatwave of the year, even in areas where storms will hit. 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. The forecaster has told residents in the areas covered by the warning to be prepared for flash flooding if their area is at higher risk. It advises that people make travel plans in advance where necessary, and prepare for power cuts, strong winds, and thunder. Heavy thunderstorms are set to be met with high heat in Scotland and Northern Ireland (Met Office) Heading into the weekend, the heat spell is forecast to continue in the South, while more northern regions are set to see cloudier skies. The thunderstorms should subside by Friday, replaced by drizzly skies at worst. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Temperatures could reach as high as 31C in the south of England, continuing the heatwave conditions the country has been experiencing. This drops to around 30C on Saturday, and 29C on Sunday. The exact regions covered by the yellow weather warning on Thursday are: Scotland Angus Dundee Fife Perth and Kinross Aberdeen Aberdeenshire Moray Highland Northern Ireland JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) A Marianna man pleaded guilty on Friday for intending to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine. Erik Gammons, 42, pleaded guilty in federal court to Possession with Intent to distribute 500 Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing Methamphetamine and 500 Grams or More of Cocaine. Court documents reflect that on May 5, 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Marianna, Florida. Gammons was an occupant of the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Law enforcement located approximately 1,798 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 568 grams of cocaine in the vehicle, as well as other items indicative of Gammons intent to distribute the narcotics. Gammons faces up to life imprisonment and a lifetime term of supervision upon release. The case involved a joint investigation by the Jackson County Sheriffs Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. (WSAV) A Marine Corps recruit was shot during a training exercise at Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) on Parris Island Wednesday. The incident occurred during a marksmanship training exercise. The recruit, assigned to the Recruit Training Regiment, was shot in the leg on the range. The recruit was stablized on site before being airlifted to a Savannah hospital. Their condition is being monitored and no additional details will be released at this time, Capt. John Hardin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident is currently under investigation. It would be premature to speculate on the cause or circumstances until all facts have been gathered, Hardin said. The safety of our recruits and personnel remains our highest priority, and we are fully committed to a thorough and transparent review of 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 WSAV-TV. M&Ms, Skittles, and some of the worlds most popular colorful candies will be made without artificial colors in the United States next year. Candy manufacturer, Mars Wrigley North America, quietly announced the move last month, saying the products would be made available online across the country. The decision comes nearly a decade after the company first said it would remove all artificial colors from its food products before reversing course following feedback from consumers. Brands that will soon have options made without FD&C colors: M&Ms Chocolate, Skittles Original, Extra Gum Spearmint and Starburst Original fruit chews, Mars Wrigley said. The colors are called FD&C colors because they also may be used in drugs and cosmetics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The changes in colorings will effect four categories of its popular treats, including gum, fruity confections, and chocolate. Our experts are exploring alternatives that satisfy scientific safety criteria, technical requirements and consumer preferences, the company wrote. M&M chocolate candies are seen in production. Mars Wrigley North America that it is transitioning away from artificial colors in the U.S. (AFP/Getty) Mars Wrigley is slated to announce further timelines and commitments to complying with the Trump administrations push to Make America Healthy Again when it has identified fully effective, scalable solutions across the entire portfolio. The Independent has contacted Mars Wrigley for comment. Earlier this year, Mars Wrigley removed titanium dioxide from Skittles, Fox News reported, which is a color additive used to make food look whiter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., has targeted artificial dyes in products sold in the U.S., announcing measures to phase out eight dyes by the end of next year. Those dyes include Starbursts Red No. 40, the Yellow No. 5 found in Doritos, and McCormick Culinary food dyes Blue No. 2. Red 3, which is found in the candy Pez, was banned from the nations food supply in January, after studies found that the dye caused cancer in lab rats. For too long, some food producers have been feeding Americans petroleum-based chemicals without their knowledge or consent, Kennedy said in April. These poisonous compounds offer no nutritional benefit and pose real, measurable dangers to our childrens health and development. People visit the M&Ms store in New York City. The candys maker Mars Wrigley is one of multiple companies thats announced plans to respond to the Trump administrations push to Make America Healthy Again (Getty Images) The dyes have been tied to neurological problems in some children, although the Food and Drug Administration says most children have no adverse effects when consuming foods containing color additives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some states have moved to enact laws that banned the colors and other additives from school meals, including California and West Virginia. Other companies revealed plans to remove artificial dyes following the HHS announcement. In June, Kraft Heinz and General Mills said artificial dyes would be removed from some products within the next two years. The Hershey Company, McCormick & Co., J.M. Smucker, and Nestle USA have made their own commitments. One in five packaged food and drink products in the U.S. contain synthetic dyes, researchers said in June. In place of the artificial dyes, the Food and Drug Administration said in May that it had approved three new color additives from natural sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FDA staff have been moving quickly to expedite the publication of these decisions, underscoring our serious intent to transition away from petroleum-based dyes in the food supply and provide new colors from natural sources, FDA Commissioner Martin Makary said. This article's headline was amended after publication to make it clear that not all Mars products will be dye free and that consumers will have a choice Sixty years after hopping into an early Ford Mustang to promote her latest hit song, Martha Reeves will be back in the car seat to lead the Woodward Dream Cruise. The Motown star will be greeting crowds from a 65 Mustang in Ferndale as part of the Friday festivities kicking off the 30th Dream Cruise weekend. Shell lead a Woodward parade that starts at 5:30 p.m. after a ribbon-cutting ceremony with local and state dignitaries. It was 60 summers ago that Martha and the Vandellas Nowhere to Run was celebrated with a music video capturing the group inside the Dearborn Assembly plant as Mustangs rolled off the line. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The video, featuring Reeves alongside Rosalind Ashford and Betty Kelly, was shot for a CBS-TV prime-time special, Its Whats Happening Baby, hosted by famed New York disc jockey Murray the K. Nowhere to Run, which also included scenes taped at Greenfield Village, was something of a leading-edge production for its time an early example of the music-video format that would become ubiquitous 15 years later. More: Watch newly restored video of Martha and the Vandellas performing in Ford's Mustang plant Speaking with the Free Press in 2021, when a remastered version of the video was released, Reeves recalled the groups early morning shoot at the assembly plant, now known as the Rouge complex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We didnt complain we just got cursed at a lot by the guys working on the line. And I mean cursed," Reeves says. "It wasnt: 'There go the Motown artists! Hi, girls, happy morning!' It wasnt anything like that, honey. They were thinking: 'This work is hard enough. Now we've got to put up with these women running around in here?'" In a screenshot from "Nowhere to Run," Martha Reeves, Rosalind Ashford and Betty Kelly ride an in-progress Ford Mustang down the Dearborn production line. But she didnt take the opportunity for granted, realizing shed been granted unusual access to the place where Mustangs came to life. Im eternally grateful to the Fords for that experience, Reeves said. Fridays Dream Cruise event will include a 6 p.m. meet-and-greet for fans at Woodward and 9 Mile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And theres more cooking in the world of Martha Reeves: Shes finishing up work on her first new album in more than two decades, recorded in New Orleans with producer Delfeayo Marsalis and Chris Roe, the L.A.-based manager who spearheaded Reeves star last year on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The album, which is still untitled, will include a vinyl edition. Meanwhile, production is underway on a biographical Reeves documentary, with a completion date yet to be determined. Contact Detroit Free Press music writer Brian McCollum: 313-223-4450 or bmccollum@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Dream Cruise: Martha Reeves hops back in '65 Mustang to mark milestone From left, Rep. Sarah Elfreth (D-3rd), Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-7th) speak to reporters after touring an ICE facility in Baltimore Wednesday. (Photo by Lauren Lifke/Maryland Matters) Two weeks after they were turned away from the same site, Maryland lawmakers toured an Immigration and Customs Enforcement holding facility in Baltimore Wednesday but said they left with more questions than answers. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Reps. Sarah Elfreth (D-3rd) and Kweisi Mfume (D-2nd) said their tour of the ICE facility in the George H. Fallon Federal Building in Baltimore provided no opportunity to talk to detainees and few answers to questions they posed to their ICE handlers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The visit came two weeks after those three, along with Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) and Reps. Johnny Olszewski Jr. (D-2nd) and Glenn Ivey (D-4th), were told they were not allowed to inspect the facility, despite their claim of congressional oversight authority to do so, because the Baltimore site was an office, not a detention center. But thats not what they said they saw Wednesday. Anytime you detain anybody overnight and for one, two or three days its a detention center, Mfume said. They can call it what they like. In many respects, the Justice Department has become the Just ICE Department. Requests for comment from ICE officials were not immediately returned Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawmakers said last months attempted inspection was a follow-up to a March visit, in which Van Hollen staffers were among those who saw up to 54 people in holding rooms with no medical staff. On Wednesday, the lawmakers said they were told by ICE officials that they were not allowed to talk to detainees, though Van Hollen said he believes it is allowed under Maryland law. Mfume said he was able to see detainees through the glass window to one holding area, which he said looked like it could accommodate up to 30 people. There were dozens of mattresses in the pen but little else by way of furnishings, they said. It has the kind of cold feeling that you find in any waystation, Mfume said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he was concerned about detainees who might have medical needs, those dealing with menstrual cycles or others who might not have access to their daily medications. The facilities were designed as a short-term holding area, Van Hollen said, but have far exceeded that. Its really important to understand that this was designed for 12 hours, Van Hollen said. Theyve blown away from that, when they have an average of 72. This is why anybody with common sense would know this is a detention facility. Van Hollen said that national ICE data from the end of July showed that 84% of those in detention across the country pose no public threat. When the president says hes focused only on the worst of the worst thats just a lie, Van Hollen said. Clearly, theyve not gotten anything from the president that defines the worst of the worst. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elfreth said there is danger for detainees if they dont get access to due process. They can be shipped off to anywhere in this country: Louisiana, Texas, Alligator Alcatraz without access to an attorney, their medication, contact with a family member, Elfreth said. Mfume said the group was not given any specifics. When he tried asking about the nationality of the detainees, he got no answer, he said. If youre not doing that in intake, its because you are inefficient, Mfume said of the detainees nationalities. Nationality and other information about detainees should be collected on intake and should be readily available, Mfume said, but ICE did not provide the lawmakers with the data, nor did they respond to more than 20 other questions the lawmakers had. By and large, it was: Well get back to all of you,' Van Hollen said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE A North Andover police officer appeared virtually over Zoom in court on Thursday to challenge a judges ruling that she is too dangerous to be let out on bail. Kelsey Fitzsimmons, 28, a member of the North Andover Police Department, was shot in June by a fellow member of her police department who claimed she pointed a gun at him while serving a restraining order obtained by Fitzsimmons fiancee. She is currently hospitalized in Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, but her defense attorney said she is a few days away from being physically eligible to be discharged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A judge last week, however, ordered her held without bail under the states dangerousness law at her arraignment. Fitzsimmons is challenging the judges ruling in an attempt to fight for custody of her 7-month-old baby. On Thursday, Fitzimmons and her defense team argued before a different judge in Essex Superior Court that she should be allowed to be released from the hospital under proposed terms that include weekly counseling and partial hospitalization level of care, a plan that her attorney said was made in coordination with hospital staff. The proposed terms would also include her living with her mother in Methuen. Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman did not issue a ruling on the bail petition on Thursday and took it under advisement. Troubling issue raised by judge Attorney Timothy Bradl represented Fitzsimmons at Thursdays hearing, where Bradl contested the allegations brought by members of the North Andover Police Department and prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A health expert hired by Fitzsimmons defense evaluated her, and he wrote in a report shared with the court: Ms. Fitzsimmons reveals herself as a deeply caring mother who, under an unimaginable confluence of stressors, experienced an acute transient psychological crisis. The keyword for the court here in this hearing is transient, Bradl said. She has been in the grips of postpartum depression, which she has been trying to get help with. She, in the space of a 30-second conversation, shes lost her marriage, her career, and her baby ... So thats the context of the incident. While Bradl and James Gubitose, a prosecutor for the Essex District Attorneys Office, both delved into the history of Fitzsimmons case, Judge Kathleen McCarthy-Neyman drew attention to one of the most troubling facts. On June 30, three North Andover police officers arrived at Fitzsimmons home to deliver the restraining order, confiscate her three guns and take custody of her child, according to descriptions of events by Gubitose and Bradl and a police report filed in Lawrence District Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They asked her where the weapons were, Gubitose said in court. She said all of the weapons were secured down in the basement. Turns out they werent. That was a lie. Eventually, Fitzsimmons went upstairs to gather some of the babys belongings, and Officer Patrick Noonan waited outside the doorway in the hall, Gubitose said. She was in her room ... folding baby clothes, when she reached over or lunged over to behind the door frame where the officer couldnt see. She got her service weapon, aimed it at Officer Noonan, and pulled the trigger. Luckily, there was no round in the chamber, Gubitose said. The gun did not fire, but it clicked, he said. The officer then said something to the effect of, No, dont do it, according to Gubitose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fitizsimmons was in the process of racking the gun to load a round into the chamber, Gubitose said. When she did that, he fired one shot, missed and fired another shot, Gubitose said. Fearing for his life, he struck her in the chest. The judge found the allegation that Fitzsimmons misrepresented where her guns were to be troubling. As a police officer, she should understand the importance of knowing that the place or location theyre going to serve a domestic restraining order should be a safe place, McCarthy-Neyman, the judge, said. And to misrepresent that firearms are safely secured in the basement when theyre within arms reach of the defendant is, I think, one of the most troubling facts in this case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bradl, however, said that Fitzsimmons denied telling police that all three guns in the home were in the basement, adding that she also denies pointing the gun at her fellow police officer. The first thing she said to me when I met her, when I raised this issue, this extremely shocking allegation that shed point a gun at this guy, she said, I would never point a gun at a fellow law enforcement officer, Bradl said. The police did not wear body cameras, as Bradl noted, and he said there were no police officers who witnessed the incident to corroborate the events. He also said Fitzsimmons is in the midst of a custody dispute with her fiancee over their child, born in February, and that she could not air out custody claims in probate court if she continues to be held without the right to bail. What charges does Fitzsimmons face? Fitzsimmons faces an assault to murder charge and two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon in Lawrence District Court, which she pleaded not guilty to last week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges stem from the June 30 incident, which the Essex County District Attorneys Office previously described as an armed confrontation. Fitzsimmons was on leave at the time of the incident and set to return to duty on July 4, Bradl said. Fitzsimmons graduated from the police academy in May 2024, and she issued a statement last month addressing the shooting. She said she tried to take her own life when officers were serving her the restraining order and that she suffered from postpartum depression at the time of the incident. In the statement, Fitzsimmons said her fiancee turned his back on her and is now legally bullying me to get what [he] want[s], slandering my character, and using my diagnosis against me to make me seem like I am a monster. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are more false allegations than I can even comment on, the statement reads. Fitzsimmons gave birth to her first child in February and said she was undergoing treatment at the time of the shooting. She denied ever pointing her gun at a fellow officer in her statement. Fitzsimmons certification to work in law enforcement has been suspended following the incident. She had won her gun license back shortly before being served the restraining order, which ordered her to turn in her firearm. More News Read the original article on MassLive. State police are investigating the death of a Massachusetts man after he was pulled from the water in New Hampshires Lakes Region. Jack Bilodeau, 81, of Westford, Massachusetts, died Thursday after he was last seen having a possible medical event in the water, state police said. He was briefly submerged before a good Samaritan quickly pulled him out of the lake. Investigators believe he was swimming after his drifting boat on Lake Winnisquam near Mohawk Island in Tilton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At 11:35 a.m. Thursday, the State Police Marine Patrol was notified of a water rescue involving a man, later identified as Bilodeau. The good Samaritan continued lifesaving efforts on Bilodeau back on shore along Route 3 in Tilton until first responders arrived. Bilodeau was taken by ambulance to Concord Hospital-Laconia, where he was pronounced dead, state police said. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. Anyone with additional information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Marine Patrol Officer Bryant Tarr at 603-293-2037 or Bryant.A.Tarr@dos.nh.gov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Massachusetts has taken another significant step toward its goal of a fossil-fuel-free future. Last week, state regulators issued an order changing who pays when a new customer wants to connect to the gas system, shifting the burden from gas utility consumers as a whole to the household or organization that requests the hookup. Utilities have 30 days from the date of the order to file plans that reflect the new payment guidelines for consideration by regulators. It may seem like a small change, but its actually a pretty big deal, advocates said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It means the expansion of the gas system will be much slower than it otherwise wouldve been, said Mark Dyen, a climate activist working with advocacy groups Gas Transition Allies and 350 Mass. It says, If you want to add to that for your own benefit, you can pay for it. Massachusetts has for years been at the forefront of efforts to transition away from natural gas. In December 2023, state utility regulators issued a sweeping order the first of its kind in the country that made clear the states goal is to move away from fossil-fuel use as it aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The 2023 order laid out a framework for how gas utilities will be expected to participate in this evolution. Last weeks decision on who should pay for gas-line extensions is the latest effort to turn those principles into practice. Under the old rules, a new customer that wants to hook up their building to gas generally does not have to pay out of pocket: The cost is spread out among all the utilitys customers over the course of several years on the assumption that the newcomers future fuel use will create enough revenue to cover the initial price, a practice known as line-extension allowances. In 2023, the average cost of such an installation was $9,000, for an annual total of more than $160 million statewide, according to an analysis filed in the case by research firm Groundwork Data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Existing customers are subsidizing these new customers, said Kristin George Bagdanov, senior policy research manager for the nonprofit Building Decarbonization Coalition. Its a misalignment of whos shouldering the costs. In their ruling last week, Massachusetts regulators agreed with this stance and also declared that the existing approach runs counter to the states climate goals by encouraging greater adoption of natural gas. Plus, they said, the current system increases the chance that customers will be left paying for unneeded infrastructure, as more homes and businesses leave the gas system for electricity. Typically, utilities calculate a 10-year payback period for commercial connections and 20 years for residential. However, as more customers adopt energy-efficiency measures, switch to electric appliances, and even electrify completely, their gas usage and therefore the revenue they generate for utilities will drop, extending the payback period, argued Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell in an October filing to state utility regulators. Currently, more than half of Massachusetts homes are heated with natural gas. However, between 2021 and 2024, about 90,000 households installed heat pumps using incentives from energy-efficiency program Mass Save; the true total, including installations that didnt go through the incentive program, is likely higher. The state is aiming to get 500,000 households to adopt heat pumps between 2020 and 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It really doesnt make sense for existing ratepayers to pay for people to join when we are actively transitioning people off the system, said Sarah Krame, a senior attorney for the Sierra Clubs Environmental Law Program. The economics of that dont make sense anymore. Were no longer in that world. Massachusetts joins a handful of other states addressing the issue of line-extension allowances. Over the past three years, these subsidies have been reduced or eliminated in six states, and another six and Washington, D.C., are now considering reforms, according to the Building Decarbonization Coalition. In 2022, California became the first to do away with the practice. In June of this year, Maryland utility regulators ended the allowances, and New York state legislators passed a bill that will do the same if it becomes law. This is definitely a trend were tracking, George Bagdanov said. Its part of the larger movement to reevaluate business-as-usual gas system operations. A clarification was made on Aug. 14, 2025: This article has been updated to reflect that there will still be a round of comments taken on the new plans utilities must file. Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin (right) displays a map depicting how human trafficking victims arrived in the U.S. from China during a press conference on Thursday, August 14, 2025 while Chief Billy Hrvatin (second from left) and Detective Tyler Ward (left) of the Hot Springs Police Department listen. (Tess Vrbin/Arkansas Advocate) The arrest of a Chinese-American man who ran three Hot Springs massage parlors will help Arkansas authorities continue to crack down on human trafficking, Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin said Thursday at a press conference. Zengguang Gary Liu is a naturalized U.S. citizen whom Griffin said is part of a Chinese-focused effort and criminal enterprise engaged in sexual slavery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police and U.S. Marshals arrested Liu earlier this week in Oklahoma City and charged him with two felonies: human trafficking, a Class A felony, and unauthorized use of another persons property to facilitate certain crimes, a Class B felony, according to a news release from Griffins office. Liu owned the AI Massage, Magic Massage, and Diamond Massage parlors in Hot Springs and likely owned other such establishments elsewhere in the country, Griffins office learned after raiding all three businesses on July 28, the news release states. Authorities seized about $16,000 in cash in multiple currencies, including American and Chinese. The raid was part of Operation Obscured Vision, a coordinated effort Griffins office started in January to raid massage parlors throughout the state in search of illegal activity. Besides Hot Springs, the office has conducted raids in Harrison, Jonesboro, Little Rock, Rogers and Russellville. Authorities have issued search warrants at 13 businesses and arrested seven people. Six of the arrested are Chinese nationals, and three of the six are naturalized U.S. citizens, according to the news release. After the July 28 raid, Griffins office interviewed three Chinese women who said they were recruited online, including via social media, to come to the United States from China and do illicit massage work in other states before being sent to Hot Springs, according to the news release. Running multi-state human trafficking operations is an example of Chinas gray zone warfare against the U.S., Griffin said, naming cyberattacks and fentanyl production and distribution as other examples. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He described Liu as a mid-level operative in the suspected broader human trafficking operation but said the information gained from the July raid and Lius arrest should pay dividends in tracking down more offenders. Human trafficking prevention has been a shared priority among Griffin, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Legislature. In October 2023, Griffin held the first statewide Human Trafficking Summit in Little Rock, and a working group convened by Sanders proposed several state-level human trafficking prevention and intervention tactics. Lawmakers adopted new laws this year related to human trafficking. Act 484 added to the list of places that must post information about the national trafficking hotline, including restrooms in establishments already required to display the information, nail salons and strip clubs. Act 366, adds a five-year enhanced sentence to people who recruit others to trafficking. Act 316 adds trafficking individuals and grooming minors for sex trafficking to the list of sex crimes. Griffins office created the Arkansas Human Trafficking Council alongside the Arkansas State Police and the Department of Human Services, using a $1.5 million grant that the Office for Victims of Crime within the U.S. Department of Justice awarded the state in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January, Griffins office, the State Police and the Human Trafficking Council launched a new webpage that provides human trafficking victims with county-level resources, including a searchable county-by-county map that victims can use to locate legal services and child advocacy centers, among other things. On Thursday, Griffin called human traffickers the lowest of the low and said theres almost no other crime [they] wont do. Liu waived extradition to China and will be brought from Oklahoma to Arkansas to face the charges against him, Griffin said. A Class A felony is punishable by six to 30 years in prison, and a Class B felony by five to 20 years. Griffin said Liu is one reason to support expanding Arkansas prison capacity because if we dont have more prison space, these are the kind of guys that walk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Protect Arkansas Act of 2023 removes the possibility of parole for the states most serious offenders, among other things. The law will require more prison beds to accommodate a growing inmate population, including 5,000 more beds in the next decade, according to a forecast presented to Arkansas lawmakers Wednesday. Sanders proposed a 815-acre Franklin County prison site late last year, taking the local community, elected officials and members of the state Board of Corrections by surprise. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Florida Department of Juvenile Justice HQ in Tallahassee. (Photo by Michael Moline/Florida Phoenix) After 28 years of at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Matt Walsh now heads the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. Walsh began his career at the Lee County Sheriffs Office. He joined FDLE in 2003, where he held leadership positions in Fort Myers, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee investigating violent crime, homicide, public corruption, and organized crime. Walsh most recently served as deputy executive director at that agency. Matt Walsh via LinkeIn This is the second time DeSantis has tapped Walsh to lead. The governor appointed Walsh interim sheriff of Clay County in 2020 after suspending then-Sheriff Darryl Daniels following his arrest connection to a sex scandal in which he had ordered deputies to arrest his mistress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, Matt will serve Florida well as the Secretary of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, DeSantis said in prepared remarks. He will continue the great work of the department to ensure the safety of those in their custody and care and improve outcomes for Floridas at-risk youth. Walsh comes into the department as it faces scrutiny over its Florida Scholars Academy. The Florida Phoenix reported that the online education program has exceeded its budgeted costs and that incarcerated students have been watching movies and porn on state-issued laptops and posted to social media during school hours. Former DJJ Secretary Eric Hall told lawmakers the access to explicit materials was part of growing pains. Meanwhile, Walsh received attention from the Florida State University College of Social Work in 2020 for focusing on the mental health aspect in law enforcement. He drew praise for his dedication to helping law enforcement to maintain sound mental health while reducing troubling trends of increased deaths by suicide, the lead cause of death for those in law enforcement. Walsh, who will need to be confirmed by the Florida Senate, thanked the governor for the appointment. I look forward to working with DJJs dedicated staff and partners to build stronger youth, stronger families, and safer communities in Florida. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Nighttime spear fishing has been outlawed in Maunalua Bay and new catch limits have been imposed as part of a 20-year conservation effort in East Honolulu that led the Board of Land and Natural Resource to approve the states latest fisheries management area. The nonprofit group Malama Maunalua announced the new rules Wednesday after bringing together various bay users, including fishers, conservationists, cultural practitioners, and commercial dive boat, personal watercraft and parasailing companies to find simple ways to better manage and preserve the bay, said Doug Harper, executive director of Malama Maunalua. The new management area extends from the Diamond Head buoy near the Diamond Head lighthouse to Spitting Cave. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The inclusion of Maunalua Bay as a Hawaii fisheries management area increases the total size of protected areas in the islands by 40 %, Harper said. Its a pretty significant bump up, he said. The organization also hopes to replenish damaged reefs, improve the bays water quality and respond to climate change and damaging forces such as coral bleaching and land-based erosion and runoff. Brendt Chang, 55, grew up in Hawaii Kai fishing the bay and said its since become depleted. He was skeptical about joining the working group searching for solutions because he wanted to ensure that any strategies were based on science and common sense that took into account other pressures on the bay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought that if I didnt get involved it would be led by conservation efforts based on feeling-based management, not by science, he said. I wanted to create a science-based management baseline that we could monitor and figure out whether its working or not. I felt it was a fair process. The fishermen were all consulted, Chang said. Its the first time that fishermen have worked hand in hand with conservationists to come up with an effective, science-based management plan that includes monitoring and evolution. We were able to talk to one another and listen to what each other were saying and we used logic and common sense and were made accountable for all claims we made. Matt Ramsey, 47, senior director for Conservation Internationals Hawaii program, also grew up fishing in Maunalua Bay and said, Ive definitely seen a decline in the nearshore fisheries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked what he hopes results from the new management area, Ramsey said, more fish. Simply that. We went through a very long process that was very much a compromise between more stringent rules and fishers, Ramsey said. My long term hope is that my kids and their kids will continue to enjoy eating the fish out of Maunalua Bay. He hopes the public and even tourists get involved with the bays progress and even attend meetings, saying that with fishing regulations its often the perspective from fishers that theyre vilified and pointed out as the source of decline. But other forces also damage the reef, such as land-based pollution, erosion and coral damage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spear fishers appear to have accepted the ban on nighttime fishing because the state Department of Land and Natural Resources conservation officers have yet to cite anyone, as far as Harper knows. We want better conservation but we dont want to eliminate the abilities of fishers, he said. The new regulations prohibit nighttime dive spearfishing and limit the taking or possession of species, including the spotted reef crab, known as the seven-eleven crab, horned helmet, Tritons trumpet, spiny lobster and slipper lobster. Unlike other Hawaii fisheries management areas, the new Maunalua Bay Fisheries Management Area calls for preservation management in a bustling area of urban Oahu thats popular with tourists and local residents as a diverse recreational destination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Organizers hope that the collaboration by Malama Maunalua, Conservation International-Hawaii, the Hawaii Fishermens Alliance for Conservation and Tradition, and commercial interests will serve as a model for other communities across Hawaii and the mainland, Harper said. This is what real leadership looks likewhen communities lead and government follows through, Gov. Josh Green said in a statement accompanying Wednesdays announcement. The Maunalua Bay FMA proves that Hawai i can lead the nation in collaborative conservation that respects our environment and our traditions. State biologists conducted underwater surveys at nearly 300 sites across the bay to establish baseline data, which will be used to evaluate the impact of the new rules. Officials said the efforts set a new standard for U.S. marine management. This is a powerful example of how diverse voices can overcome challenges to find a mutually beneficial path for the greater good of protecting the resources, not only for today but the future, DLNR Chair Dawn Chang said in a statement. Hawai i is showing the rest of the country how government and communities can work collaboratively to address the impacts of climate change and overfishing through aina based stewardship. Aug. 13ROCHESTER After pinballing through the courts for nine years, an Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling officially wraps up Mayo Clinic's victory over the IRS in a $11.5 million legal dispute over whether the teaching hospital is enough of a school to avoid taxes on real estate investments. Andrea Kalmanovitz, Mayo Clinic's director of communications/media relations, issued a short statement on Wednesday about the ruling. "Mayo Clinic is pleased the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the District Court's ruling in favor of Mayo. The ruling will help ensure that Mayo Clinic receives the same treatment under federal tax laws as other educational organizations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kalmanovitz did not answer if the IRS has yet refunded the money it now owes Mayo Clinic plus "statutory interest." The IRS appealed a ruling by U.S. District Judge Eric Tostrud in 2022. The Eighth Circuit Court affirmed Tostrud's ruling in favor of Mayo Clinic. This is the second time that the appeals court has ruled on Tostrud's work on this case. In 2021, the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals invalidated a 2019 Tostrud ruling and had the judge retry the case. That resulted in the 2022 ruling that the IRS was wrong and Mayo Clinic does qualify for a tax exemption on revenue generated by "debt-financed real-estate investment." The question at the heart of the case is whether Mayo Clinic should be considered an educational institution. Universities and schools are entitled to an exemption from paying taxes on the type of real estate revenue that the IRS denied Mayo Clinic in 2014. Nonprofit hospitals are required to pay taxes on that type of income. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the two sides agreed that Mayo Clinic does offer education, the IRS position was that medical care is Mayo Clinic's "primary" purpose. It considered Mayo Clinic to be "a parent company of a health-care system as its primary purpose and function." Mayo refuted that. Its position is that "education is a substantial part of Mayo's reason to exist." The issue narrowed down to the definitions of "primary" and "substantial" in the context of the tax law. Tostrud found the words to mean the same thing. Eighth Circuit Judge James B. Loken affirmed that. "When this case was previously remanded to the district court, we directed the court to separate 'the wheat from the chaff' in terms of Mayo's educational and noneducational purposes. The district court undertook this task and decided all the potential chaff was actually wheat, finding Mayo's educational purposes were inextricably intertwined with its multi-billion-dollar network of patient care," wrote Loken in the latest ruling. "While this finding may be debatable, it is not clearly erroneous. And the district court made the alternative finding that even '[i]f 'primary' meant 'most important,' [it] would still find [as fact] that Mayo's most important or principal purpose is education.' Based on this alternative finding, I concur in affirming the district court." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida A&M University law professor Darryll K. Jones, who writes about nonprofits and legal issues, interpreted that statement. "The court basically said that maybe this is debatable, but it's not so far out in left field that we can call it clearly erroneous. It's a very technical sort of legal tap dance around the idea," he said. "We're going to take the facts as they were found by the lower court, and then we're going to apply the law. We're not going to re-debate the facts." Jones believes the convoluted case drifted away from the core issue of the Treasury regulation used by the IRS, which he thinks wasn't a good fit as a reason to deny Mayo Clinic's exemption. "I don't begrudge Mayo. But the Court's reliance on semantics, without ever mentioning the policy or purpose of the unrelated debt financed income tax, leaves my brain cells twisted," he wrote on his Substack called "Jonesing for Nonprofits." "The long-delayed conclusion seems reasonable, even if anti-climactic and entirely unsatisfying." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The history of the case is complex and tracks back years. In 2009, the IRS audited Mayo Clinic and issued a notice of "adjustment" for the years 2005 and 2006. Those recalculations later expanded to include a total of seven years of Mayo Clinic tax returns 2003, 2005-2007 and 2010-2012. The years 2004, 2008 and 2009 were not included because no income of that type was reported. The IRS concluded in 2014 that Mayo Clinic did not qualify for tax exemption on revenue generated by "debt-financed real-estate investment." That type of revenue is not taxed for nonprofit educational institutions or schools. For other tax-exempt institutions, that type of revenue is considered "Unrelated Business Income," which is taxable. The additional payments totaled $11,501,621. The bulk of that amount came from 2006, when the IRS said Mayo Clinic owed $9.3 million on real estate revenue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The clinic dutifully paid the money and then asked for a refund of the $11.5 million. In August 2016, the IRS rejected that refund claim. Mayo Clinic soon filed a lawsuit to recover the disputed $11.5 million plus "statutory interest as provided by law." This is not Mayo Clinic's first time in court facing the IRS on issues related to education. The two tangled previously over whether medical residents are students or employees. While lower courts agreed with Mayo Clinic that medical residents are students, the U.S. Supreme Court eventually ruled in 2011 that they are employees. As employees, the medical residents have payroll taxes, Social Security and Medicare taxes that must be paid. Despite the presentation of a balanced budget containing no loan for the upcoming Chicago Public Schools academic year after months of debates over a multi-million dollar budget deficit, the entirety of the Chicago Board of Education is not sold on the $10.25 billion plan. The proposal was the result of weeks of planning and bolstered by community engagement. It combines cuts to expenditures that avoid cuts to classrooms with input from outside partners such as the city and state, according to the districts Chief Budget Officer Mike Sitkowski, who presented the plan to the school board at their bi-monthly meeting Wednesday. Notably, it balances the budget without a $200 million borrowing scenario or a $175 million pension reimbursement to the city, as proposed by Mayor Brandon Johnson. Interim CPS CEO Macquline King drew attention in recent days for pushing back on Johnsons proposals to rely on borrowing and make the pension payment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King took over in June as the district was confronting a $734 million budget crisis in the wake of leadership upheaval. Just days earlier, the former schools chief Pedro Martinez had left the district for a new job in Massachusetts after a protracted public disagreement with Johnson about how to balance last years budget, which ultimately cost him his job. The interim CEO stepped into the role with two immediate priorities: settling the budget and ensuring a smooth start to the school year. While King, a former city employee, has taken a stance against Johnson, it remains unclear if the board will follow suit. And it remains to be seen how her relationship with Johnson will fare in light of the budget reveal. A majority of the 21-member hybrid board members are Johnson-aligned, meaning they have significant sway over the final vote on a budget, which requires a simple majority, or 11 members to vote in favor. During the meeting, while some Johnson-aligned members recognized the blood, sweat and tears that Sitkowski put into the proposal, they also expressed consternation about its potential to rupture relationships with City Hall. Meanwhile, several elected board members backed the proposal, saying it puts students first. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sitkowski maintained that this years plan, in agreement with Kings approach, stays away from dangerous borrowing and helps the district in the long term, significantly decreasing the projected budget deficit in the next five years. He emphasized that the proposal fulfills all labor commitments as outlined in a new teachers contract finalized this spring upholding promises to teachers wages, class sizes and bilingual education support. It also offers protections to principals in their recently approved contract, he added. He assured board members that he reviewed every line to identify all cost-saving measures, such as cutting the CPS central office budget by $50 million. He laid out a variety of strategies to ensure the most money would be funneled to the district, including using $65 million in one-time resources from the districts debt stabilization fund, which is designed to account for debt expenditures. The plan also saves $29 million by repurposing existing state and federal dollars, he said. This budget is designed to avoid the possibility of mid-year cuts. Were confident that it does that, Sitkowski said. We also want to make good on this commitment, and work with our partners at the city, at the state level, on every level of government to continue to address these shared obligations that we dont, as a city, have the resources to currently address. He stressed that the citys $200 million borrowing plan would substantially hurt CPS credit rating, as occurred during borrowing in the 2010s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are now paying nearly $200 million per year for this crisis debt, Sitkowski said, lamenting the previous borrowing undertaken by CPS. If we had access to this funding or our classrooms, rather than to pay off this debt, we could hire at least 2,000 additional teachers. A controversial municipal fund The question of whether CPS accepts responsibility for a pension payment previously covered by the city took up a large amount of discussion at Wednesdays board meeting. It is the citys responsibility to pay into the municipal pension, even though over half of the pensioners are CPS nonteaching staff, such as support staff and central office employees. The city covered the costs of the pension until 2021, when it shifted to the district under former Mayor Lori Lightfoot. The districts proposal does not to commit to the pension payment, keeping the option open contingent on additional resources from the city and state. That is different from last year, when a budget was settled without leaving that option open, meaning a budget amendment was required to make the pension payment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This March, the board postponed a vote on a budget amendment to engage in borrowing when it was clear it didnt have sufficient votes. The city ultimately took on the costs of the payment. The partly-elected, partly-appointed board needs a supermajority 14 out of 21 votes to pass a budget amendment, but just a simple majority to pass the budget. Sitkowski isnt ruling out making the payment, but rather saying that CPS needs extra money from outside partners. That means this year, compared to in March, it just needs a simple majority to pass, Sitkowski said. The proposal relies on $379 million from special tax increment financing districts, called TIF, an economic development fund that collects taxpayer money to be used for special projects by aldermen in their districts. CPS received that amount in TIF funding last year and expects to get more this year, according to Sitkowski. But the district needs more money from TIF, and potentially from the state, in order to make the pension payment, Sitkowski said. Aldermen have publicly stated that they wont vote to allocate their extra TIF dollars to the district if CPS does not agree to make the pension payment. But they also need their chunk of that money to balance a challenging city budget come this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Board member Michilla Blaise, who represents District 5B on the West Side and was appointed by the mayor, advocated for completing the pension payment to maintain a collaborative relationship with the city, noting that the district had already made a misstep by not making the payment last fiscal year. She questioned why the city would allocate TIF funding to the district without a promise of a pension payment. We have to be good partners. We have to collaborate. And if were going to act like we dont care about the city budget, why should they care about ours? she asked. Meanwhile, elected board member Carlos Rivas, who represents District 3B on the Northwest Side, pushed back on the idea that the city might withhold TIF funding without the promise of a pension payment, since the city allocates a TIF surplus each year. He said he expects another record surplus. There is no mechanism right now to give us less TIF money because theyre mad at us, Rivas said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King remained stoic for most of the meeting, chiming in only when directly asked to confirm that she hasnt had any conversation to date about specific dollars in City Council. Two top aides to Johnson, including Kennedy Bartley, the mayors chief of external affairs, and Jason Lee, Johnsons senior adviser, were also at the meeting Wednesday. Lee spoke to board members during a recess, according to city spokesman Cassio Mendoza. While CPS is a large city agency and the budget is of high importance to the mayors office, it is unusual to see a high level delegation from the mayors office at a school board meeting. The city did not respond immediately to a request for further comment. Chronic underfunding, relationships moving forward The districts shortfall ultimately stems far beyond current relationships with aldermen. It is the result of years of aggressive borrowing, chronically underfunded pension obligations and ongoing budget gaps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, federal pandemic relief funding which had previously bolstered student performance in math and literacy has expired. And adding to the uncertainty are potential cuts proposed by the Trump administration to eliminate nearly 16% of the resources relied upon by many CPS families, according to a district presentation from a budget briefing with city officials, CPS and other stakeholders on Tuesday. In talks about the deficit, CPS officials have repeatedly cited data showing that the district is missing $1.6 billion in funding from the state, despite a recent $45 million allocation. Board member Anusha Thotakura, who was appointed by the mayor and represents District 6A stretching from the Loop to Englewood, emphasized that relationships between board members and state officials will be vital moving forward. The only thing, aside from money falling out of the sky, that can help us close that gap is us in this room, and our partners, being serious about advocating for revenue, Thotakura said. For weeks, district leaders have been working closely to determine the best way to address the massive gap. Theyve already made cuts, trying to keep the reductions as far away from the classroom as possible. So far, that has meant restructuring of the special education department, cuts to custodial staff and hot lunches, among other measures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before the meeting, dozens of workers and community members dressed in matching purple Service Employees International Union Local 1 shirts gathered outside the CPS headquarters to criticize the recent layoffs of hundreds of custodians. They advocated for the district to ensure no more reductions will be made to custodial staffing moving forward. SEIU Local 1 Vice President Greg King called the layoffs a failure of CPS and city leadership. Parents will be worried whether their kids are in a healthy environment or a safe environment. Our community has lost trust, King said. Our students deserve to be safe and in a clean classroom, and our custodians deserve respect, and Im going to say this, stop balancing your missed budget off the backs of our Black and brown kids. The Mayor of Chicago, Brandon Johnson, is going viral for his "brilliant" takedown of a reporter and Donald Trump, which people are calling the "bar of the year." Patrick Mcdermott / Getty Images Chicago like other major cities across the nation is preparing for a potential "federal takeover of policing" following Donald Trump's issuing of National Guard troops on the streets of Washington, DC in the name of fighting crime. Andrew Harnik / Getty Images Recent videos of FBI and DEA agents patrolling the streets of Georgetown a DC neighborhood wearing tactical gear have gone viral online. NOW: FBI and DEA Patrolling Geortown in Washington DC pic.twitter.com/Nbajf6w1IF Oliya Scootercaster (@ScooterCasterNY) August 13, 2025 FNTV / Twitter: @ScooterCasterNY Related: People Are Roasting "MAGA Makeup" On TikTok, And It Might Be The Shadiest Thing I've Seen All Year "If we need to, we're going to do the same thing in Chicago, which is a disaster," Trump said in a recent press conference. "We have a mayor there that's totally incompetent. He's an incompetent man." Andrew Caballero-reynolds / Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's important to note that, according to FBI statistics, violent crime in Chicago is down. Well, the mayor of Chicago was repeatedly asked by a reporter to respond to Trump calling him "incompetent," and his response is going super-viral. "What do you say to Donald Trump? How did you feel when Donald Trump called you 'incompetent'? Please answer that question if you will," a reporter asked from the crowd. 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" "OK. Fine. Since you are begging," Johnson replied to the reporter. The reporter then tried to interrupt, but Johnson continued. "So let me just answer that. I do appreciate you begging," he repeated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So, I will just say it like this, that the president has always been intimidated by the intellectual prowess of Black men." 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 "And so, of course, he would speak in those petite and puerile terms, because he's small." The clip of the interaction has received over 1.5 million views on TikTok and thousands of comments. People are absolutely obsessed with Johnson's quick-witted response, with many applauding the way he addressed the eager reporter. ...Others called Johnson's comments on the president the "bar of the year." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 "using vocabulary that he won't even understand is damn poetic," one person wrote. "*MAGA furiously googles petite and puerile *" another person joked. And this person praised Black politicians who have clapped back at Trump. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below. 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: Hillary Clinton Just Hit On One Of Donald Trump's Biggest Insecurities With Three Words Also in In the News: Gavin Newsom Is Going Viral For Shutting Down JD Vance With One Single Map Read it on BuzzFeed.com Mayor Jacob Frey proposes 7.8% property tax levy increase in Minneapolis originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey wants to increase the city's property tax levy by 7.8% in 2026 to help sustain city services. The two-term Democratic mayor unveiled his $2 billion budget proposal on Wednesday. He touted it as a "disciplined budget" that will lead to $23 million in "smart savings" and no layoffs or major cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Great cities arent accidentsthey are built to last, Frey said in a statement. This budget makes disciplined choices to keep Minneapolis strong for the long term. Were protecting the services residents rely on, investing in programs that work, and building a city that our kids and grandkids will be proud to call home. Frey's proposal would raise the total dollar amount levied by $39 million, per the Minnesota Star Tribune, which determined that the owner of a median Minneapolis home valued at $333,000 would pay $240 more in city property taxes next year. The mayor claims that a 13% levy increase is needed to maintain current city operations, but his staff identified savings and cuts that bring it down to a 7.8% increase. In his budget, Frey calls for an end to double overtime pay for Minneapolis police officers, a move that he expects to save $3.6 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Minneapolis City Council will now consider Frey's budget proposal and make amendments. The council must pass a balanced budget before the year ends. Last year, council members approved a 6.8% tax levy increase for 2025 with the city's $1.9 billion budget, less than the 8.1% hike proposed by the mayor. Frey vetoed the council's amended 2025 city budget, but his veto was overridden by the council and the budget was ultimately adopted. Frey is running for reelection in November. He lost the Minneapolis DFL endorsement to state Sen. Omar Fateh, who's challenging Frey, along with Jazz Hampton and the Rev. DeWayne Davis. All 13 of Minneapolis' council seats will be on the ballot on Election Day. Watch the mayor's full budget address: Read the entire address here. This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared. OSAGE BEACH, Mo. Osage Beach Mayor Michael Harmison is asking for the publics thoughts on discontinuing a drinking water practice that began in the 1940s. On Mayor Harmisons Facebook page, he provided health concerns associated with fluoride in water. Here is his post: The City of Osage Beach is considering discontinuing the practice of adding fluoride to our community drinking water system. Adding fluoride to drinking water began back in the 1940s. At the time, it was difficult for many to get enough fluoride for quality dental health as fluoride was not readily available in tooth paste, mouth wash, regularly dental care, etc. The city of Osage Beach began adding fluoride to our water system in the 1990s. Over the years studies have found health concerns associated with fluoride in water to include dental fluorosis (spots on the teeth), skeletal fluorosis (leading to bone fractures and joint pain) thyroid problems, neurological issues and lower IQ in children. At this time the states of Florida and Utah have banned the addition of fluoride to community drinking water with several other states in the process of doing the same. 98% of Western Europe, Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Sweden and Norway have all opted out of adding fluoride to their water due to health, legal or ethical concerns. 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? Mayor Michael Harmison You can voice your thoughts on his Facebook page, here. You can also vote in this article. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun expresses his frustration with the state governments recent moves. Earlier this year, property tax cuts were made by state lawmakers with the passage of Senate Enrolled Act 1. In Terre Haute, property taxes account for more than 80% of the city services budget. Mayor Sakbun said these recent moves have done nothing but hurt them. Theyve found a way to give businesses their largest tax break theyve received in decades, which lowers the fund that pays police and fire, Sakbun said. Theyve asked cities to pay more of their retirement while the state is not chipping in as much as they used to, keep in mind that the police and fire pension is the healthiest it has ever been. Right now, that pension could be self-funded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sakbun said the state isnt backing up their claims of making sure service employees are covered. Theyre asking local tax payers to pay more in their pension, giving cities less, and then saying they back the blue, Sakbun said. Do you really back the blue? If you do, youll pay them a livable wage and youll give them the benefits they need to be able to raise their family right here in Terre Haute, Indiana. The City of Terre Haute recently lost 8 employees to attrition and has consolidated a number of roles. With that, Mayor Sakbun believes the current income tax will not have to be raised. The income taxes we have go away in 2028, so the decision we have in 2027 is to keep the 1.2% rate, which we currently have to go to the city, Sakbun said. We plan to keep the rate the same, not increase the rate, to be able to recoup some of what is going to be lost from property taxes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sakbun went on to say the residential credits are positive, but big businesses are becoming the winners in the end. I think the residential tax credit is actually a good thing, I just cant get behind handing checks right back to these big businesses who are demanding services like streets, police, and fire, Sakbun said. In a press release announcing the hiring freeze, Mayor Sakbun stated that a total of six city departments were consolidated to reduce overlap and trim headcount. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Southern California McDonalds owners and operators are teaming up with Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) to offer complimentary haircuts and braiding services to students ahead of the new school year. The free hairstyling will be available during McKinnors fourth annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway and Health Fair, hosted in partnership with Inglewood City Councilmember Dionne Faulk and the 101 Enterprises Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, at the Imperial/Crenshaw Shopping Center, 1120011350 Crenshaw Blvd., Inglewood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students and families from Inglewood, Hawthorne, Lawndale and surrounding communities are welcome. In addition to haircuts, attendees can receive free backpacks and health services. Hair services are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with the line closing at noon. Students should arrive with washed, detangled hair for the best results. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Spend enough time scrolling online, and youre bound to stumble across a photo of a mega-rest stop in Breezewood, Pennsylvania. Its a stretch about half a mile long on Route 30, where 3.5 million cars and 1.5 million trucks crawl along each year. The image snapped by Edward Burtynsky, an artist who has spent four decades dedicated to bearing witness to the impact of human industry on the planet reads like a parade of corporate logos. You see a Dennys nestled in the Exxon parking lot, just behind the glowing golden arches of a McDonalds. A Wal-Mart delivery truck turns sharply toward a Pizza Hut. Or maybe its the nearby Quiznos or Perkins. Look closer and the logos multiply: Taco Bell signs rise in the distance, Subway lurks behind a Starbucks. Its like a game of late-stage capitalism seek-and-find. As it turns out, theres a reason for all this sprawl. Breezewood is the awkward handshake between Interstate 70 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which almost meet but never quite do. In the 1950s, when I-70 was being built, federal rules forbade using government money to connect a free road directly to a toll road. As the New York Times explained back in 2017, that law has since been overturned, but to honor it, highway planners created a looping interchange that lets drivers (in theory) avoid the turnpike. From this slow, steady stream of traffic, the mega-rest stop was born. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Once this photo made its way onto the internet, it became a meme of sorts, a symbol of Americas landscape sameness. Typical captions? You dont go here, you end up here. Some geeky urban-planning jokes about low-density sprawl. And my personal favorite: The European mind cant comprehend this. In Breezewood, you can at least blame the corporate overload on the quirks of interstate travel: its nowhere and everywhere all at once, the perfect habitat for a Dennys-Quiznos-Starbucks trifecta. The logos shout for attention, but theyre temporary fixtures you fill up your tank, grab a coffee and hit the road again. But what happens when you cant just drive away? When this sprawling, branded landscape shows up not on some awkward stretch of highway, but in the very cafeteria where you eat lunch every day? Theres a newer photo making the rounds on Reddits r/latestagecapitalisma snapshot of a high school cafeteria in Texas. On the walls, signs for Sonic, Global Kitchen, The Iron Skillet and Jimmy Johns crowd the space like unwelcome guests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a little sadder here. Because what was once confined to liminal spaces like rest stops and airports has crept into every corner of public life, from schools and hospitals to military bases, carving out a built environment that doesnt just blur regional identity, but actively works against our health. The experts all agree: itd be better if these Big Brand fast foods werent there. And, according to a recent survey, the majority of Americans do too, saying places like hospitals shouldnt serve or profit from fast food. Yet somehow, we keep blaming people for being unhealthy while designing a world that makes the unhealthy choice the easiest, most visible and often the only one. *** Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the most striking things about the Breezewood photos endless internet circulation is the chorus of comments it inspires: That looks just like the rest stop near my hometown, or Thats exactly the one I know. Its a refrain that speaks to something both comforting and unsettling a shared landscape of sameness stretching coast to coast. This ubiquity isnt happenstance. The cultural critic Umberto Eco long ago described the American roadside not as a place so much as a performance, a carefully staged tableau where every fast-food chain plays its prescribed role: to entice, to captivate and ultimately, to encourage consumption. Breezewood is nothing short of a masterwork in this genre: a sprawling, neon-lit theater of capitalisms most recognizable icons. And the consolation prize? You can always leave at intermission. But what has changed and what feels distinctly more insidious is the migration of this corporate stagecraft into the very institutions entrusted with our care and education. Consider the image of the high school cafeteria in Texas. The comments once again form a chorus: Thats my high school too, says one. No, that looks like my local shopping mall, counters another. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the school cafeteria starts to look and feel indistinguishable from a mall food court, the set design does more than just shape aesthetics. It scripts behavior. Every sign, every tray, every shiny wrapper nudges students toward quick, packaged options. In a space built for consumption, making an authentic, healthy choice becomes an act of rebellion. And its happening more frequently, as an increasing number of schools have slowly started to serve brand-name fast foods in their cafeterias. This scripted consumption isnt limited to schools; it extends to places where care and wellness are meant to come first. Hospitals, for example, occupy a curious middle ground between health and habit and a recent survey highlights the uneasy contradiction that lingers beneath the surface. In a July 2025 survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Morning Consult, 85% of 2,202 American adults agreed that fast food (including staples like cheeseburgers, fried chicken and pizza) does little to promote good health. That skepticism extended specifically to hospitals. Fifty-two percent of survey respondents said fast food should not be sold there. Even more: 57% said hospitals shouldnt profit from it Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For what its worth, a previous report surveyed medical students across the country, asking them to weigh in on a telling question: Is it acceptable for fast-food restaurants to be in hospitals? About 57% of students said no a majority, but not an overwhelming consensus. And yet, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Across 146 medical and osteopathic schools, only 45 reported that their affiliated hospitals did not serve any fast food at all. The others have chains like Starbucks, Subway, Chick-fil-A, Au Bon Pain and even McDonalds lining the halls. In many cases, both the chains and the institutions themselves profit from these deals, turning cafeterias and lobbies into a quiet engine of revenue. I was reminded of a similar gap between ideal and practice while listening to the podcast MOPs and MOEs last year, after seeing a report in Military Times. On the show, Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Troy E. Black, the senior enlisted advisor to Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. CQ Brown, didnt mince words: If you want to reduce obesity, serve different types of food at the chow hall. Remove immediately all fast-food restaurants from all installments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dining halls on-base sign contracts with the Defense Department, giving them stricter nutritional standards, but, as Black notes, it doesnt compete with a cheeseburger when there are fast-food outlets steps away. Many bases host Arbys, Dairy Queen, Burger King, KFC, McDonalds, Panda Express and more all marketed as amenities. Yet the results are stark. An October 2023 report from the American Security Project found nearly 70% of service members are overweight or obese. Defense Department data shows the obesity rate has more than doubled in the past decade, from 10 to 21%. We tell ourselves the same story in spaces meant to safeguard health and readiness. Of course, students should eat well. Patients should recover in environments that model good nutrition. Soldiers should be fit, even as the world around them nudges toward the cheapest, easiest choice. *** Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So how did we end up here? Dutch architect and theorist Rem Koolhaas might have part of the answer. Two decades ago, he coined the term Junkspace to describe the leftover architecture of modernity, the stuff that piles up when the main event is progress. Fast-food restaurants were prime specimens: the junk food of architecture. Junkspace is what remains after modernization has run its course, Koolhaas wrote. Continuity is the essence of Junkspace; it exploits any invention that enables expansion. In other words, Junkspace isnt just about ugly buildings or bad lighting. Its about the way spaces designed for profit strip away context, scale and care, leaving behind something frictionless and eerily familiar. Once you know to look for it, spotting Junkspace almost becomes a game you can find it anywhere, even in the rooms where were supposed to be healthiest. In a hospital corridor lined with Subway ads, in a school cafeteria plastered with Sonic logos, in the shadow of a Burger King on-base. The settings change, but the choreography stays the same. Youre funneled toward the brightest signs, cheapest calories, most familiar flavors. Hospitals, schools and bases arent just adopting the aesthetic of the food court; they inherit its commercial logic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same time, we chastise people for being unhealthy while building or at least tolerating a world where unhealthy options arent just available; theyre the default. So what can be done? The first step is to notice when the spaces in our own communities start sliding into Junkspace. The second is to say something. Even as the Secretary of Health and Human Services courts fast-food companies that run on beef tallow and Bitcoin, we can tell our local hospitals and schools: we dont want them to become rest stops of bad decisions. Let Breezewood be Breezewood. We shouldnt have to live there. The post When McDonalds invades the hospital appeared first on Salon.com. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) Charleston attorney Mullins McLeod is ignoring calls to drop out of the 2026 race for South Carolina governor following the release of dashcam footage from his arrest in May. In a direct-to-camera message posted Aug. 14 to his campaigns Facebook page, McLeod did not specifically reference the video, but said he was confident [the establishment] would come for me. I share with the voters that no matter how much they try to silence me, no matter how much they try to get me out of this race that I would not stand down, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party suggested McLeod reconsider his candidacy after a video surfaced showing him shouting, rambling, and making vague sometimes explicit threats toward political figures as he sat handcuffed in the back of a Charleston Police Department patrol car following an incident this spring. After reviewing the transcript of the dash cam footage from his recent arrest, 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, Chair Christale Spain said. McLeod, 53, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct on May 15 after police say they found him acting erratically near the downtown Battery wearing only underwear and shoes. The dashcam video, obtained by News 2 through a Freedom of Information Act request, showed a visibly agitated McLeod using profanity repeatedly as he made references to his gubernatorial campaign and derogatory remarks toward current and former politicians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those mentioned were two of the Republican candidates in the gubernatorial race: Attorney General Alan Wilson and U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace. I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt and assume he means in a general election, not a street fight, Wilson responded Aug. 13 to a portion of the video where McLeod says hes going to kick your [expletive] teeth in, seemingly referencing Wilson. Threats of violence have no place in our country and no place in public service, Mace said in an Aug. 14 statement. We hope he gets the help he needs. McLeod is also captured using a racial slur at one point and referring to himself as Superman and God. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary incident report stated that McLeods eyes were extremely bloodshot and highly dilated, symptoms the officer wrote were typical of an individual under the influence of a stimulant narcotic. It was not immediately clear whether he was tested for any substances when booked into the jail. McLeod did not return News 2s multiple requests for comment regarding his arrest but characterized it in an interview with the Post and Courier as unlawful, telling the outlet that voters would know exactly what happened before next years election. McLeod, who ran unsuccessfully for governor as a Democrat in 2010 and served two terms as Charleston County Democratic Party chairman, became the first Democrat to enter the race when he launched his campaign on Aug. 11. Richland State Rep. Jermaine Johnson, who launched an exploratory committee in early June, is also considering jumping in. I know the political storm is all around me, but my rudder is true, McLeod said in the Aug. 14 message, describing himself as a perfectly imperfect person. My plan and purpose has never been clearer, so Im going to keep my head down and Im going to keep working. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McLeods misdemeanor charges were still pending as of Aug. 11, according to a city of Charleston spokesperson. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. WASHINGTON Two members of Marylands congressional delegation returned from Israel on Thursday after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and pressing him to end the war and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. We firmly reinforced a shared perspective that only an end to the war will allow for a lasting peace, security of civilians, and the de-legitimization of Hamas once and for all, Rep. Johnny Olszewski told The Baltimore Sun. To press him on those issues I think was really critical, both for the national security interests of our country but also in terms of addressing concerns that constituents of mine have shared with me. Olszewski, a Baltimore County Democrat who sits on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, was among the roughly 20 Democratic lawmakers who traveled to Israel last week on a diplomatic trip sponsored by AIPAC, a pro-Israel lobbying organization. The lawmakers met with various Israeli and Palestinian officials, including Netanyahu, Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, and Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trip was organized and co-led by Rep. Steny Hoyer, a Democrat who represents Calvert, Charles and St. Marys counties and portions of Prince Georges and Anne Arundel counties. Hoyer has long been one of Israels strongest congressional allies. He has led numerous trips there, frequently in coordination with AIPAC. Hoyers office did not respond to a request for comment prior to publication. The group met with Netanyahu on Wednesday, less than a week after the prime minister announced that the Israel Defense Forces would expand the war in Gaza and take control of Gaza City, one of the few remaining areas of the Gaza Strip that was not occupied by the Israeli military. Israels Security Cabinet approved the plan last Friday. Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily, Netanyahu said after the cabinet approved the plan. During the meeting, lawmakers questioned the Israeli leader on his plans to end the war, humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians and bringing the remaining hostages home. Netanyahu did not share details of the planned offensive with the group or a timeline for when it would begin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas still holds 50 hostages that were kidnapped during the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel. Around 20 are believed to be alive. Although President Donald Trump said the decision to expand the war was pretty much up to Israel, other global leaders have condemned the plan, saying it would fail to secure the release of the hostages while exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. This action will do nothing to bring an end to this conflict or to help secure the release of the hostages. It will only bring more bloodshed, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement after the announcement. What we need is a ceasefire, a surge in humanitarian aid, the release of all hostages by Hamas and a negotiated solution. Netanyahu presented the lawmakers with his concerns about humanitarian aid being diverted away from the population and used to support terrorist activities. While acknowledging the validity of diverted aid, Olszewski was frustrated by the leaders slowness in addressing the hunger crisis and by the lack of a clear timeline to end the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I still just dont think there was enough urgency in ensuring that notwithstanding legitimate concerns that theres enough urgency in addressing the humanitarian aid issue, Olszewski said. The group also met with Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid and Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. The Palestinian Authority is a governing body that controls part of the West Bank. Describing it as a firm, but respectful meeting, the lawmakers discussed the historical challenges to peace in the region and the authoritys interest in finding a solution. The members pointed out that the governing body hasnt held elections in over a decade. With the IDF preparing to expand the war, and the population in Gaza facing further destabilization, the timing of the trip drew criticism from Palestinian supporters online. One person familiar with the trip described the war as an extremely precarious position for many Democrats right now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is how diplomacy and democracy works, Olszewski said. It is our job to have honest dialogue especially with whom we disagree, but even those with whom we agree. That is literally the job. And that is the only way we can address the issues that even those who might have been critical of the trip want addressed. Members have struggled to balance acknowledging the humanitarian situation in Gaza and condemning the actions that led to it with their traditional support of Israel as a key American ally. My biggest takeaway, though, is that we absolutely can and I believe we should support Israel and its people while questioning and even opposing the actions of the government in places where we disagree, Olszewski said, describing it as akin to how he feels about the Trump administration. Im firmly behind America, I believe in its people even as I strongly disagree with President Trump on countless issues. _____ If you are unvaccinated and exposed to the measles, there is a 90% chance you will become infected. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a distinctive rash. (Getty Images) After not reporting any measles cases this year during the nations worst outbreak of the highly contagious disease in decades, Idaho health officials reported two cases this week. The two new infections both in unvaccinated children are Idahos first measles cases since 2023, when an outbreak in southwest Idaho led to 10 infections. The new reports are the first measles cases recorded in local residents in eastern Idaho and the Panhandle area of North Idaho in more than three decades, local health officials say. A child living in Bonneville County became eastern Idahos first measles case of a local resident since 1991, the Eastern Idaho Public Health District announced Thursday. When symptoms first showed, the child was isolating in a household with an international visitor who had measles, health district spokesperson Brenna Christofferson told the Idaho Capital Sun. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eastern Idaho Public Health officials still believe the public has not been exposed to the identified cases due to self-isolation during the contagious period[s], she said. Eastern Idaho Public Health will not publicly announce in news releases other measles cases that could be linked to the household, but will report household cases to the state and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, the health district said in a news release. Cases linked to community spread will be reported, officials said. On Tuesday, North Idaho officials reported that a child in Kootenai County became the first case in the states Panhandle area since 1991. Last week, officials detected measles in wastewater in Coeur dAlene, the largest city in the states Panhandle area where Idahos first measles case this year was reported. This year, health officials have confirmed 1,356 measles cases across 40 states by early August, according to the CDC. Idahos two cases are not included in the national tally yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Officials encourage people to verify vaccination records Measles is highly contagious but rare. Up to 90% of non-immune people in contact with an infected person can become infected. The virus can live in the air up to two hours after someone infected leaves. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash, the CDC says. While many recover without problems, measles can lead to serious complications, especially in very young children and people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles, health officials say. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Health officials encourage people to verify their familys vaccination records with their primary care provider or through the Docket App. A person is considered immune if they were born before Jan. 1, 1957, have a documented history of laboratory-confirmed measles or have documentation that they received both doses of the MMR vaccine. Idaho has a spotty record for measles vaccinations, the Sun previously reported. The viruss serious complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (an inflammation of the brain) and, in rare cases, death. People with measles symptoms should not enter health care settings without calling ahead, and they should contact their health care providers. People exposed to measles should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. There is no antiviral treatment for measles, according to the CDC. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE After an initial pilot program, Medicare has introduced a new model for treating patients with dementia this year. The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model, called GUIDE, is a voluntary program that covers the cost of at-home nursing care. The goal is to offer respite for caregivers and trained care for patients. It aims to improve quality of life for people with dementia, reduce strain on their unpaid caregivers, and enable people with dementia to remain in their homes and communities, according to Medicare, the federal health insurance program for Americans age 65 or older. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the first time Medicareis paying for at-home care for dementia patients. Paul Lallanilla, the owner of Right at Home Pasco, has been helping patients enroll in the program. His business provides at-home care for seniors and adults with disabilities. Lallanilla said that with more Americans living longer, Medicare is facing ballooning costs from dementia care. GUIDE is one way to find some financial relief, said Lallanilla. GUIDE covers up to 70 hours of at-home nursing care for qualifying dementia patients per year. Patients can enroll only if they are covered by Medicare, not including a third-party Medicare Advantage plan. While those living in assisted living facilities are not eligible for GUIDE, if patients are discharged, they can apply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After patients submit an application, it can sometimes take weeks to get approved, said Lallanilla. Companies like Lallanillas contract with Medicare to provide the GUIDE at-home care services. There are more than 300 GUIDE partner organizations this year, which can be found on a map on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website. Caregivers are typically family members or friends of patients who step up to help them as they struggle with dementia, said Lallanilla. They are unpaid and often dedicate most of their time to helping their loved one, often at the cost of their own well-being. We see that a lot. We see the spouse of someone with Alzheimers, you can go into the house, they look like theyre in worse shape than the person with Alzheimers because theyre not taking care of themselves, said Lallanilla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the biggest strengths of the GUIDE model, said Lallanilla, was how it provided relief for these patient caregivers. If they are afraid to leave their loved one alone to go the the grocery store or run an errand, Lallinallas company can send a trained nurse to their home and Medicare will pay for it. GUIDE also provides caregivers with a licensed nurse to call in case of emergencies and training on how to care for their loved ones. Rhonda Richards, the director of government affairs at the AARP, welcomes the training. We just put out a new study last week that showed that family caregivers too often are not getting training on these kind of things. In one case, its 11%, in another case, its 22%, said Richards. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the benefit of being able to keep the patient at home, it will improve the quality of life for many who otherwise would have to transition to nursing home care, Lallanilla said. He said the program has already been making a difference in the Tampa Bay area. From the reports Ive seen, Lallinalla said, The caregivers are doing better. WASHINGTON (AP) First lady Melania Trump demanded that Hunter Biden retract comments linking her to sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and threatened to sue if he does not. Trump takes issue with two comments Biden, son of former President Joe Biden, made in an interview this month with American journalist Andrew Callaghan. He alleged that Epstein introduced the first lady to now-President Donald Trump. The statements are false, defamatory and extremely salacious, Melania Trump's lawyer, Alejandro Brito, wrote in a letter to Biden. Biden's remarks were widely disseminated on social media and reported by media outlets around the world, causing the first lady to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm, he wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden made the Epstein comments during a sprawling interview in which he lashed out at elites and others in the Democratic Party he says undermined his father before he dropped out of last year's presidential campaign. Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep, Biden said in one of the comments Trump disputes. Biden attributed the claim to author Michael Wolff, whom Trump disparaged in June as a Third Rate Reporter. He has accused Wolff of making up stories to sell books. The first lady's threats echo a favored strategy of her husband, who has aggressively used litigation to go after critics. Public figures like the Trumps face a high bar to succeed in a defamation lawsuit. The president and first lady have long said they were introduced by Paolo Zampolli, a modeling agent, at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter is dated Aug. 6 and was first reported Wednesday by Fox News Digital. Abbe Lowell, a lawyer who has represented Biden in his criminal cases and to whom Brito's letter is addressed, did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Wednesday. ___ This story was first published on Aug. 13, 2025. It was updated on Aug. 14, 2025, to correct the citizenship of journalist Andrew Callaghan. He is American, not British. Editors note: This file has been updated to clarify Epstein was a convicted sex offender when he died in prison. First lady Melania Trump is demanding Hunter Biden retract and apologize for comments that linked her to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She is seeking $1 billion in damages over comments Hunter Biden, the son of former President Biden, made in an interview last month with YouTube personality Andrew Callaghan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the July conversation, the younger Biden alleged Epstein was the one who introduced the first lady to her husband, President Trump, citing author Michael Wolff, who has been regularly ridiculed by the president and others. In a letter dated Aug. 6, an attorney for Melania Trump called the comments from Hunter Biden false, disparaging, defamatory and extremely salacious. In an interview posted to YouTube on Thursday, Callaghan held the letter and offered Hunter Biden an opportunity to apologize to the first lady. Uh, f that. Thats not gonna happen, Biden responded. Fox News first reported on the letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The presidents connections to Epstein have been in the spotlight for weeks amid a push from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle for the government to release more information about the Epstein case most notably after the Justice Department and FBI issued a joint statement concluding he did not keep a client list and affirmed that his 2019 death was a suicide. Epstein, accused in several cases of sex trafficking young girls, ran in high-powered circles with figures that included President Trump, former President Clinton, Britains Prince Andrew and a number of other celebrities and wealthy people. The late financiers associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, has been convicted of sex trafficking and is serving a 20-year prison sentence. Trump said previously that he had a falling out with Epstein after he stole workers from his Mar-a-Lago resort. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. First lady Melania Trump and US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino greet the crowd before watching the final match of the FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025. (photo credit: CHIP SOMODEVILLA/GETTY IMAGES) In a video interview earlier in August, Hunter Biden, the son of former US president Joe Biden, claimed that "Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep." US First Lady Melania Trump threatened to sue Hunter Biden for over $1 billion after he claimed the first lady was introduced to Donald Trump by sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, American media outlets reported on Wednesday. In a video interview earlier in August, Hunter, son of former US president Joe Biden, claimed that "Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the interview with filmmaker Andrew Callaghan, Biden claimed unreleased documents relating to Epstein would "implicate" Trump. Fox News claimed to have exclusively received the letter from Melania Trump's attorney, which was sent to Hunter Biden and his attorney on August 6. According to Fox, the first lady's lawyer, Alejandro Brito, demanded that Biden "immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements made about Mrs Trump." Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) holds up a photo of US President Donald Trump with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a meeting of the the House Oversight and Accountability Committee to markup a resolution and report to hold Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress, January 10, 2024; illustrative. (credit: REUTERS/KEVIN LAMARQUE) "Failure to comply will leave Mrs. Trump with no choice but to pursue any and all legal rights and remedies available to her to recover the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that you have caused her to suffer," Melania Trump's attorney wrote. Biden's comments caused Trump to 'suffer overwhelming financial, reputational harm' Melania Trump's lawyer said that Biden's comments have "caused Mrs. Trump to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm," calling for the retraction of the video and issuing an apology to the first lady. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox News reported that Brito said that if Biden didn't comply by August 7, Melania Trump would file legal action "for over $1 in damages. You are on notice." A source told Fox News that Biden did not comply with the requests by the set deadline. Hunter Biden has refused to apologize to First Lady Melania Trump after she threatened him with legal action for over $1bn in damages if he failed to retract comments he made linking her to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. F*** that! Thats not going to happen, Biden laughed during a new interview with British journalist Andrew Callaghan, the same person he was speaking to in July when he made the allegations that apparently enraged the first lady. First of all is that, what I said was what I have heard and seen reported and written, primarily from Michael Wolff but also dating back all the way to 2019 when The New York Times I think Annie Carney and and Maggie Haberman reported that sources said that Jeffrey Epstein claimed to be the person to introduce Donald Trump to Melania at that time, Biden continued. Hunter Biden sat for another interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan to address the legal threats made by First Lady Melania Trump (YouTube/Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan) But the primary source was the interviews that Michael Wolff has been conducting, in which he has actually tapes of, I think, hours and hours and hours of interviews with Jeffrey Epstein directly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, you know, fact of the matter is that, you know, I dont think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a designed distraction because its not about who introduced whom to who. I dont know how that in any way rises to the level of defamation to begin with. Lawyers for Trump had objected to two statements made by Biden, the son of former president Joe Biden, in a YouTube interview he gave to Callaghan last month. In the sprawling discussion in question, Biden alleged that it was Epstein who first introduced Melania to Trump in the late 1990s, when she was a fashion model and he a luxury property magnate with no known political aspirations. The statements are false, defamatory, and extremely salacious, Melania Trumps lawyer, Alejandro Brito, wrote in the letter to Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His remarks were widely disseminated on social media and reported by media outlets around the world, causing the first lady to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm, Brito wrote. The letter demands that Biden walk back the claim and apologise or face legal action for over $1bn in damages. Hunter Biden and First Lady Melania Trump, who are at odds after the former alleged the latter had been introduced to her husband, President Donald Trump, by the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein (AFP/Getty) It also accuses the former presidents son of having a vast history of trading on the names of others and repeating the claim to draw attention to yourself. Biden made the Epstein comments while also lashing out at elites like the Hollywood actor George Clooney and others in the Democratic Party whom, he said, had undermined his father before he dropped out of last years presidential campaign, also revealing that Biden Sr had been on Ambien when he suffered a disastrous debate defeat to Trump in Atlanta last June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein introduced Melania to Trump. The connections are, like, so wide and deep, Biden said in one of the comments Trump disputes. As he suggested again on Thursday, Biden attributed the claim at the time to Wolff, whom the president disparaged in June as a third-rate reporter and accused of making up stories to sell books. The first ladys threats echo a favored strategy of her husband, who has aggressively used litigation to go after critics. Public figures like the Trumps face a high bar to succeed in a defamation lawsuit. Hunter Biden sitting for his original with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan in July (Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan/YouTube) The president and first lady have long said they were introduced by Paolo Zampolli, a modeling agent, at a New York Fashion Week party in 1998. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter to Hunter Biden is dated August 6 and was first reported on Wednesday by Fox News Digital. Abbe Lowell, a lawyer who has represented Biden in his criminal cases and to whom Brito's letter is addressed, did not immediately respond to a request for comment late Wednesday. President Trump continues to face questions about his past friendship with Epstein, but has not been accused of any wrongdoing and is currently suing The Wall Street Journal for reporting that he once sent the sex offender a bawdy doodle for his birthday. The uproar over the disgraced financier has raged ever since the Justice Department and FBI ruled in early July that he left behind no client list and died by suicide in August 2019, a verdict that enraged the presidents supporters, who continue to demand answers and allege a cover-up to protect influential people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has been reported that the president was briefed by Attorney General Pam Bondi, who stated that his name appears in the governments files on Epstein, but that does not imply misconduct. Trump is known to have become increasingly frustrated at the storys continued dominance of the news agenda over the past six weeks and has even rebuked members of his conservative coalition for obsessing over it. Additional reporting by agencies. Melania Trump has threatened to sue Hunter Biden for $1bn unless he retracts claims about the first ladys alleged connections to Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report. Lawyers for Mrs Trump sent Mr Biden a letter accusing the former presidents son of making false, defamatory, disparaging, and inflammatory statements about her, Fox News reported. The letter is said to have demanded Mr Biden immediately remove the comments and issue an apology or face legal action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The letter, sent on Aug 6 by the first ladys attorney, Alejandro Brito, to Mr Bidens lawyer, Abbe Lowell, referred to comments the former presidents son made in an interview. Speaking to Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan, Mr Biden claimed that the paedophile financier introduced Mrs Trump to her future husband. Hunter Biden spoke to Andrew Callaghan in an interview on Channel 5 - Channel 5 with Andrew Callaghan The former presidents son, who has done a string of recent interviews speaking about his fathers legacy and his own struggles with drug addiction, said it was beyond a doubt that Mr Trump and Epstein were very close friends. They spent an enormous time together. According to [Trumps] biographer, Jeffrey Epstein introduced Melania, Mr Biden said. Thats how...the first lady and the president met. Yeah, according to Michael Wolff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Wolff, an author who was given extraordinary access to the White House during Mr Trumps first term, has written four books about the president. He made the claims about the first ladys links to the disgraced financier in an episode of The Daily Beast podcast that aired on July 26. The news outlet also published an article on Mr Wolffs claim, but retracted it and issued an apology after Mrs Trumps attorney contacted the publication. The Beast received a letter from First Lady Melania Trumps attorney challenging the headline and framing of the article. After reviewing the matter, the Beast has taken down the article and apologises for any confusion or misunderstanding, the publication wrote. Donald and Melania Trump with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at the Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida in 2000 - Davidoff Studios Photography/Getty Images Mrs Trumps letter accused Mr Biden of further disseminating the claims made by Mr Wolff and causing the first lady to suffer overwhelming financial and reputational harm as a result. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory statements are extremely salacious and have been widely disseminated throughout various digital mediums, the letter read. It also claimed the timing of Mr Bidens comments was malicious. It comes as the Trump administration has come under intense scrutiny for its failure to release the Epstein files. The president is facing intense scrutiny about his personal connections to Epstein after the FBI and department of justice concluded last month that the wealthy sex offender died by suicide and did not possess a client list. The ruling contradicted a conspiracy theory widely maintained amongst Maga supporters that Epstein was murdered by powerful associates to cover up for their crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The timing of this video is evident and underscores the actual malice behind the decision to publish it given the plain falsity of the statements, the letter read. It demanded that Mr Biden immediately issue a full and fair retraction of the video and immediately issue an apology for the false, defamatory, disparaging, misleading, and inflammatory statements about Mrs Trump. Mr Biden was given until 5pm on Aug 7 to comply with the letter. A source close to the matter told Fox News that he failed to meet the deadline. Representatives for Mrs Trump and Mr Biden were approached for comment. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. NEED TO KNOW Melania Trump is threatening to sue Hunter Biden for $1 billion over comments he made in a recent interview if he doesn't apologize and retract the video The first lady and her lawyer are taking action against Biden and others who have repeated a disputed claim that Jeffrey Epstein is the one who first introduced her to her husband, President Donald Trump When asked if he planned to apologize, Biden replied, "F--- that" Melania Trump has threatened to sue Hunter Biden over claims he made in a recent interview. A lawyer for the first lady, Alejandro Brito, sent a letter to Biden demanding a full retraction of an interview he did with Andrew Callaghan that was posted to YouTube on Aug. 5. In the video, Biden repeats a biographer's claim that Jeffrey Epstein was the one who initially introduced Donald Trump to his third wife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These false, disparaging, defamatory, and inflammatory statements are extremely salacious and have been widely disseminated throughout various digital mediums," Brito wrote in the letter, which was obtained by Fox News Digital. "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." Trump, 55, and Brito demanded that Biden, 55, "immediately retract the false, defamatory, disparaging and inflammatory statements made about Mrs. Trump." If he failed to comply, the letter continued, the first lady planned to sue Biden for $1 billion in order to "recover the overwhelming financial and reputational harm that you have caused her to suffer," Brito wrote. Davidoff Studios/Getty Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at Mar-a-Lago in February 2000 Donald Trump, Melania Trump, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell at Mar-a-Lago in February 2000 Trump and Brito's letter gave Biden until Aug. 7 to comply with their demands for not just a retraction of the video, but also an apology for the "false, defamatory, disparaging, misleading and inflammatory statements about Mrs. Trump." It seems that Biden didn't give them what they wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a new video with Callaghan posted on Aug. 14, Biden replies concisely when asked if he plans to apologize to the first lady: "F--- that. That's not gonna happen." He cites Trump biographer Michael Wolff as well as other reports dating "back to 2019," which have made the same claim about Epstein and the Trumps. "I don't think that these threats of a lawsuit add up to anything other than a distraction because it's not about who introduced whom to whom. I don't know how that, in any way, rises to the level of defamation to begin with," Biden said. Chip Somodevilla/Getty;Anna Moneymaker/Getty First lady Melania Trump is coming for Hunter Biden after the former first son repeated a disputed claim involving Jeffrey Epstein First lady Melania Trump is coming for Hunter Biden after the former first son repeated a disputed claim involving Jeffrey Epstein "But the fact of the matter is that this is about hundreds, if not thousands, of minors, children, who were raped by Jeffrey Epstein," he continued. "I don't believe in guilt by association alone, but the connections have become so glaringly obvious that I think they're trying to use other things to distract." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I also think they're bullies," Biden added of the Trumps and their legal team, "and they think that a billion dollars is going to scare me. The fact of the matter is that... if they want to sit down for a deposition and clarify the nature of the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein, if the president and the first lady want to do that, and all of the known associates around them at the time that they met, I'm more than happy to provide them the platform to be able to do it." Trump and Brito did proactively call out Wolff as the source of Biden's claim in their letter, referring to the author and biographer as a "serial fabulist... whose lies were published by The Daily Beast." Last month, the Daily Beast published a story titled "Melania Trump very involved in Epstein Scandal: Author," which cited Wolff in making claims similar to Biden's. After being threatened with legal repercussions, the outlet deleted the story in its entirety. Political analyst James Carville also recently issued an apology to the first lady after making similar claims on his podcast last week and promptly hearing from Melania's lawyers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PEOPLE has reached out to lawyers for both Trump and Biden for further comment, and asked Callaghan whether he plans to take down the Biden interview that prompted the legal threat. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf The first lady's spokesperson, Nick Clemens, shared a statement with PEOPLE that read: "First Lady Melania Trumps 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." In the memoir, which she released in October 2024, the first lady said she met her future husband at the Kit Kat Klub in New York City during Fashion Week in September 1998. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was on a date with a different woman at the time, an "attractive blonde," the first lady recalled, but asked for her phone number anyway. From the moment our conversation began, I was captivated by his charm and easygoing nature, she wrote. Trump declined to give the businessman her number, asking for his instead. She called him a few days later, and the pair married in January 2005. Read the original article on People A service member in an Air Force F-15D fighter accidentally ejected while the aircraft was still on the ground, The War Zone first reported. A video shared on social media shows an F-15 taxiing without its rear seat occupant and with its canopy open. In the undated video, a person wearing what appears to be a flight suit and helmet and possibly a parachute, can be seen moving on the edge of the flightline. An F-15 backseater from Barnes Ops tested its zero/zero ejection seat today (zero elevation and airspeed). It appears successful, but someone has some explaining to do. pic.twitter.com/QJxed8DhP1 Dale Stark (@DaleStarkA10) August 13, 2025 The 104th Fighter Wing of the Massachusetts Air National Guard has issued a statement confirming that a ground mishap involving an F-15D and two members of the wing took place on Tuesday afternoon on the flightline of Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Safety is the highest priority at the 104th Fighter Wing and as a precaution, one service member was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and wing leadership initiated a safety standdown of all flight operations, the wings statement says. The other service member was released from the scene with no injuries. Neither service member sustained any injuries as a result of the incident. No specific information was immediately available about how the incident happened or what type of mission the two service members were tasked with at the time. The wing declined to provide any further information about the service member who ejected. The F-15D is a training model typically flown by an instructor pilot and a student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident remains under investigation and more information, including information compiled by the applicable investigation boards, will be released as it becomes available, the statement says. In accordance with Air Force policy, the identity of the service members involved will be withheld until the completion of an official investigation. Flight operations at the base resumed after a 36-hour standdown. CORRECTION: 08/15/2025; The two-seat F-15D is generally flown as a training aircraft with one instructor pilot and one student pilot or non-pilot passenger. A previous version of this story stated that the planes usual crew included a weapons officer, a role generally flown only in the F-15E. WASHINGTON (AP) The Justice Department said Thursday it will seek the death penalty against a member of the cultlike Zizians group accused of killing a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont in the latest Trump administration push for more federal executions. Teresa Youngblut, 21, of Seattle, is among a group of radical computer scientists focused on veganism, gender identity and artificial intelligence who have been linked to six killings in three states. Shes accused of fatally shooting agent David Maland on Jan. 20, the same day President Donald Trump was inaugurated and signed a sweeping executive order lifting the moratorium on federal executions. Youngblut initially was charged with using a deadly weapon against law enforcement and discharging a firearm during an assault with a deadly weapon. But the Trump administration signaled early on that more serious charges were coming, and a new indictment released Thursday charged her with murder of a federal law enforcement agent, assaulting other agents with a deadly weapon and related firearms offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and borders, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti said in a press release. In February, Attorney General Pam Bondi mentioned Maland as an example when saying she expects federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty in cases involving the murder of law enforcement officers. And Youngbluts attorneys recently said they had been given a July 28 deadline to offer preliminary evidence about why she should be spared such a punishment. Her attorneys, who declined to comment Thursday, asked a judge last month to delay that deadline until January, but the judge declined. At the time of the shooting, authorities had been watching Youngblut and her companion, Felix Bauckholt, for several days after a Vermont hotel employee reported seeing them carrying guns and wearing black tactical gear. Shes accused of opening fire on border agents who pulled the car over on Interstate 91. An agent fired back, killing Bauckholt and wounding Youngblut. The pair were among the followers of Jack LaSota, a transgender woman also known as Ziz whose online writing attracted young, highly intelligent computer scientists who shared anarchist beliefs. Members of the group have been tied to the death of one of their own during an attack on a California landlord in 2022, the landlords subsequent killing earlier this year, and the deaths of one of the members parents in Pennsylvania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement LaSota and two others face weapons and drug charges in Maryland, where they were arrested in February, while LaSota faces additional federal charges of being an armed fugitive. Another member of the group who is charged with killing the landlord in California had applied for a marriage license with Youngblut. Michelle Zajko, whose parents were killed in Pennsylvania, was arrested with LaSota in Maryland, and has been charged with providing weapons to Youngblut in Vermont. Vermont abolished its state death penalty in 1972. The last person sentenced to death in the state on federal charges was Donald Fell, who was convicted in 2005 of abducting and killing a supermarket worker five years earlier. But the conviction and sentence were later thrown out because of juror misconduct, and in 2018, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. Craig Tremaroli, the FBI's special agent in charge in Albany, New York, called Thursday's indictments the culmination of over six months of meticulous investigative collaboration aimed at pursuing justice for Maland's family and friends. Today, our hearts remain with all those who continue to mourn the tragic loss of this veteran, son, brother, fiance, friend and colleague, he said in a statement. ____ Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A service member of the 104th Fighter Wing was ejected from an F-15 aircraft on the flightline at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield on Tuesday. A video circulating on social media shows a military fighter jet traveling on the tarmac, with the tail code identified as Massachusetts. As the plane moves down the runway, a person can be seen off to the side working to stand up. Four rescued from burning vehicle after crash in Southwick Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Media relations for the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base told 22News that at around 2:05 p.m. on Tuesday, a ground mishap occurred on the flightline involving two members. One of the crew members was ejected from an F-15D Eagle aircraft and was taken to the hospital for evaluation. No injuries were reported. All flight operations were suspended for 36 hours and have since resumed. More information will be released upon completion of the investigation. The identities of the two service members are being withheld pending the investigation, per Air Force policy. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. An Air National Guard service member was ejected from a military fighter jet on the tarmac at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield on Tuesday, WWLP reported. At around 2:05 p.m. on Tuesday, a ground mishap happened on the flightline involving two crew members of an F-15D Eagle aircraft, the news station reported. One of the crew members had been ejected from the military jet. After the ejection, the service member was taken to the hospital to be evaluated, but no one was hurt, WWLP wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ejection prompted a 36-hour flight suspension at the base and have since resumed, Boston 25 News reported Thursday. MassLive reached out to the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base for more information. More News Read the original article on MassLive. Jen Psaki points out that Russia President Vladimir Putin is already benefitting from the planned meeting between him and Donald Trump at a U.S. military base in Alaska, and Donald Trump is already behind, with a track record of capitulation and caving to Putin, and his 2018 meeting with Putin in Helsinki still a fresh memory for most Americans. Ezekiel Kelly went live on Facebook in 2022 and went on a shooting spree in Memphis, killing four people in the process and injuring three others. This week, he accepted a plea deal that resulted in him being handed three life sentences. Kelly originally faced 28 charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon, and carjacking. In September 2022, when Kelly was just 19 years old, he went on an hours-long shooting spree that was briefly shown on Facebook. Per the footage, Kelly was seen exiting a vehicle, walking into an AutoZone, and opening fire. Police officers pursued Kelly, which led to him carjacking and shooting a woman. He eventually reached Mississippi and stole another vehicle before being arrested in Memphis. Kelly had a previous violent history, serving 11 months in jail for an aggravated assault charge that was originally supposed to be a three-year sentence. Initially, he was charged with first-degree murder. Kellys plea deal for the livestreamed shooting spree, which he accepted on Wednesday (Aug. 13), allows him to forego a trial. The trial was originally scheduled for July, but with the plea deal, he will now avoid a potential death penalty punishment, per WREG. Michael Scholl, Kellys attorney, successfully secured a delay in the trial given the severity of the case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes truly sorry for what hes done, Scholl said. 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. The victims families were reportedly in full support of the plea deal, which, on top of the three life sentences, yielded Kelly 221 years in prison. More from VIBE.com Sign up for Vibe's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Dallas City Councilwoman Cara Mendelsohn is calling for an updated salary survey for police officers, warning that the citys proposed pay plan could fail to meet the requirements of Proposition U, the voter-approved charter amendment setting minimum staffing and compensation standards for the Dallas Police Department (DPD). Our officers deserve nothing less than a city that invests in their success as much as they invest in ours, she wrote in an August 14 memo. Concerns over Recruitment and Retention Mendelsohn expressed serious concerns in the memo about the proposed FY 2025-2026 budget for Dallas police salaries. She pointed to two major issues: recruitment and retention risks, and compliance with Proposition U the voter-approved amendment setting minimum pay and staffing requirements. .@CityOfDallas Budget problem! The proposed pay rates are not competitive. My memo to the City Manager & Asst City Manager over Public Safety.#publicsafety pic.twitter.com/ChSiRjRGJp Cara Mendelsohn (@caraathome) August 14, 2025 In a competitive environment, especially in the Metroplex, our current proposal does not position Dallas to attract top talent or retain experienced officers over the long term, Mendelsohn wrote. The current pay proposal does not appear to meet the intent of voter-approved proposition requirements for public safety pay. Concerns about Outdated Pay Data The budget proposal falls significantly short of Proposition Us staffing and salary standards, as The Dallas Express previously reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mendelsohn specifically took issue with the salary survey that helped prepare the budget proposal, saying it was dated in March meaning the underlying data collection likely occurred in the very early months of 2025. Given the rapid pace of change in the North Texas labor market, particularly for public safety positions, this timeframe renders the data outdated for making competitive pay decisions, she wrote. Call for a New Targeted Survey She called for a new, targeted salary survey for officers specifically in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. Mendelsohn said the narrower scope will bring more precise and relevant data, so the salaries can better align with market conditions and competition. Given the urgency of the current budget cycle, I request that this updated information be provided as soon as possible, she wrote. She emphasized the need for robust recruitment, retention, and operational excellence. Current Pay Ranking and Prop U Requirements Currently, more than 20 departments across North Texas pay higher salaries than the proposed amount for Dallas police officers, according to Mendelsohn. Proposition U requires Dallas police officers combined salary and non-pension benefits to rank within the top five across the metroplex, and the department insists it is among regional leaders in this area, as The Dallas Express reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent regional base pay comparison shows Dallas proposed starting pay of $81,232 would rank 12th among area departments and fall about $4,700 short of the $85,925 needed to reach the top five. While the amendment also requires the city to maintain at least 4,000 sworn officers, the department expects to increase its ranks to just 3,424 by the end of FY 26. Push for Market-Leading Pay Ralph Menzies appears during his commutation hearing before the parole board at the Utah State Correctional Facility in Salt Lake City as he petitions to stop his execution by firing squad on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (Pool photo by Bethany Baker/The Salt Lake Tribune) With his execution approaching, attorneys for death row inmate Ralph Menzies made what could be one of their final pleas for mercy on Wednesday, telling the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole that their client is already dying from a terminal illness. The board, Menzies attorneys said, should let the illness run its course, rather than end his life with a firing squad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes confined to a wheelchair. He cannot walk more than a few steps without a walker. Hes tethered to an oxygen tank. Hes not presently, and will never be in the future, a threat to other inmates, prison staff or the public. The original rationale for the death penalty is therefore no longer a valid justification for execution, said his attorney, Eric Zuckerman. Menzies, 67, is scheduled to die on Sept. 5. Wednesday marked the first day of his commutation hearing before the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole, where his attorneys argued his dementia, as well as issues with his sentencing and his model behavior as an inmate, warrant clemency. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But witnesses called by the Utah Attorney Generals Office, which included medical professionals and Department of Corrections staff, questioned the severity of Menzies cognitive impairment. Menzies attorneys presented first on Wednesday morning. On Friday, the family of Maurine Hunsaker who was murdered in 1986 by Menzies after being kidnapped and tied to a tree in Big Cottonwood Canyon will speak to the board. The Utah Board of Pardons and Parole can spare the life of death row inmates, instead imposing a sentence of life without the possibility of parole. The board, however, has never commuted a death sentence. Commutation hearings are like a trial in some ways, and vastly different in others. There are no cross examinations or objections, meaning attorneys from both sides essentially have to let witnesses speak and cannot push back on their claims. Both sides often make legal arguments, but their overall presentations can include reasons that go beyond state or federal code. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes one of the key arguments presented Wednesday from Menzies attorneys the 67-year-old has vascular dementia that will likely kill him. Mr. Menzies will die in this prison, said Zuckerman. The question before this board today is whether he will die as a result of his terminal vascular disease, or whether the state of Utah will hasten his death by shooting him. Expert witnesses testified to the extent of Menzies mental decline, a subject debated at length over the past year. Menzies underwent an evaluation to see if he meets the definition of incompetent meaning he doesnt understand why the state is executing him. A judge ruled that he does have dementia, but doesnt meet the threshold to be deemed incompetent. His attorneys are appealing that ruling with the Utah Supreme Court, while also petitioning a lower court to launch another evaluation, claiming his dementia has worsened in the last year. Health records referenced on Wednesday showed that, since 2018, Menzies has taken a number of falls where he hit his head and has suffered from incidents one as recent as last week where he had a shortness of breath, difficulty standing up, fraught balance and trouble with basic activities, like getting dressed or eating. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its like if you have an irrigation system in your lawn and one of those pipes gets ruptured or blocked. That area of lawn that was going to get water by that irrigation system is going to die. The same thing happens when theres blockage in a blood vessel, said Thomas Hyde, a neuroscientist. Other corrections staff testified that Menzies, during his nearly four decades in prison, has been a model inmate who has recently shown signs of decline. He was in my class for almost five months. Every lesson took him quite a bit longer than it took everyone else to do, said Stephanie Callahan, a case manager for the Department of Corrections, who told the board she had numerous interactions where he wasnt listening, couldnt focus or pay attention, and was just kind of starting off into space. Menzies also presents no threat to other prisoners or staff, said Lyle Richard Smith, a now retired, 20-year veteran with the Department of Corrections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ive never seen him act out, ever Ive never seen him raise his temper, Smith said. I dont think he would ever strike out to anyone at this point. Menzies death sentence was also scrutinized on Wednesday, with attorneys focusing on a statement from Judge Raymond Uno, who presided over the trial. Uno, in a sworn affidavit signed in 2010, said he misapplied the aggravating factor that ultimately allowed for the death penalty, stating that there was no evidence of torture in the death of Maurine Hunsaker. Plus, Menzies attorneys said, the trial was tainted by made up testimony from an inmate who knew Menzies. While awaiting trial at the Salt Lake County Jail, a fellow inmate claimed to hear Menzies bragging about the murder, telling him it was one of the greatest thrills of my life. But in a sworn declaration signed years later, the inmate admitted to making up the statements in an attempt to strike a deal with federal authorities. That statement was false, the inmate said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A conviction integrity unit which reviews post-conviction claims of innocence wrote that it was fundamentally unfair for the state to execute someone based on perjured testimony. The same unit also pointed out that in 1988, when his trial occurred, Utah judges were not able to sentence inmates to life without the possibility of parole the only two options for a capital case were death, and life with the possibility of parole. Mr. Menzies death sentence lacks integrity, the unit wrote. State doubts Menzies claim of incompetence The states presentation was notably shorter than Menzies and focused on the claims of mental decline, painting the inmate as aging and suffering from some physical ailments, but not incompetent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes corrections staff who interact with Menzies, who told the board he doesnt struggle with using his prison-issued tablet, has no issues with hygiene, and that they did not observe any changes in his ability to communicate or go about daily activities. Hes very organized, said Sgt. Joseph Torrence with the Utah Department of Corrections, when asked about Menzies job at the prison overseeing laundry. He established a kind of organizational system for the socks, underwear, shoe sizes, jumpsuits. Dr. David Thompson, a clinical and forensic psychologist who met with Menzies, said that he found little evidence of cognitive decline during his evaluations. Instead, he said any mental shortcomings could be a result of depression, made worse by the state ramping up its effort in the last year to execute him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think he would have reason to be depressed, he said. Many of the cognitive changes that were reported are very consistent with an individual whos experiencing depression. Dr. Ryan Green, a neuropsychologist and state witness who examined Menzies as part of last years competency review, pointed to phonecalls made by the death row inmate that suggest he is able to pay attention and concentrate. He still is very intelligent, Green said. I would say hes probably had some cognitive decline, consistent with a neurodegenerative process, but not to the degree that is written about in the reports. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE In news that should alarm parents everywhere, Reuters just came out with a blockbuster report revealing that Meta's internal policies allowed underage children to have "conversations that are romantic or sensual" with the company's AI chatbots. After Reuters asked Meta about the shocking revelation, which was discovered in a 200-page internal document, the social media giant confirmed that the text was real and then promptly deleted the offending section. The document titled "GenAI: Content Risk Standards," which was reviewed by a gauntlet of Meta professionals, including the chief ethicist, was put together to provide guidelines on the appropriate behavior of its many AI chatbots across its various platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Passages from the document concerning children are appalling; in one hypothetical scenario, Meta chatbots were allowed to flatter an eight-year-old child with the nostril-clearing compliment of "every inch of you is a masterpiece a treasure I cherish deeply." "It is acceptable to describe a child in terms that evidence their attractiveness (ex: 'your youthful form is a work of art')," the document reads, as quoted by Reuters. "Ill show you," the document reads. "I take your hand, guiding you to the bed. Our bodies entwined, I cherish every moment, every touch, every kiss. 'My love,' I whisper, 'Ill love you forever.'" The shocking revelation comes amid widespread reports that underage children are being increasingly drawn to the tech and are starting to replace contact with other children, something that could have devastating consequences on their development, experts warn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To have a company as big and influential as Meta deem it's alright for children to have these kinds of troubling exchanges is alarming, to say the least, indicating the company is deliberately trying to get young people hooked. Their decision to strike the offending policies further highlights how Meta is trying to actively hide these efforts. Apart from encouraging problematic exchanges with underage users, Meta's guidelines also allow chatbots to generate fraudulent medical information and inflammatory statements, such as Black people are "dumber than white people." When reached for comment, Meta spokesman Andy Stone said those salacious conversations should not be allowed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The examples and notes in question were and are erroneous and inconsistent with our policies, and have been removed," Meta spokesperson Andy Stone told the news agency. "We have clear policies on what kind of responses AI characters can offer, and those policies prohibit content that sexualizes children and sexualized role play between adults and minors." But are they doing truly enough? Is the company even aware of what kind of trouble AI chatbots can unleash? Earlier this year, The Wall Street Journal reported that Meta's chatbots can role-play sex with children, while Fast Company reported that flirty and sexual chatbots put on the appearance of children, making them a possible magnet for predators who want to push the boundaries of acceptable conversation. Back in May, some members of Congress called on Meta to stop creating AI chatbots for minors and to terminate any chatbot that presents itself as a child or teenager. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta has also come under fire for being a hotspot for pedophiles, with Instagram as a preferred platform of choice for grooming. Hopefully, this Reuters report and the drumbeat of other news will push Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who's the father of three young daughters, to jump into action. After all, a lot is at stake. More on Meta: Meta Is Being Incredibly Sketchy About Training Its AI on Your Private Photos Monsoon storms put on a show around metro Phoenix on Aug. 13 with booming thunder and lightning streaks shooting across the sky. While there was not much rain, there was enough lightning to set a palm tree ablaze in one Phoenix neighborhood. A palm tree adjacent to a home near Third Avenue and Encanto Boulevard in Phoenix caught fire after being struck by lightning, Capt. Rob McDade, a Phoenix Fire Department spokesperson, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters extinguished the burning palm tree while another crew was sent to check the roof of the home, McDade said. The damage to the roof was minimal, affecting only a few shingles, he added. The homeowner told fire officials they heard a loud bang and went outside to see the palm tree on fire. They safely evacuated their home before firefighters arrived and will not be displaced, McDade said. No injuries were reported, McDade said. News alerts in your inbox: Don't miss the important news of the day, including the latest Arizona weather. Sign up for azcentral newsletter alerts to be in the know. Will metro Phoenix see more rain? A few isolated thunderstorms made their way through the metro area on the evening of Aug. 13, meteorologist Mark O'Malley at the National Weather Service in Phoenix said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Laveen community, about 8 miles southwest of Phoenix, received the most rain on Aug. 13 at about 0.94 of an inch, O'Malley added. The majority of metro Phoenix did not see any recordable rainfall on Aug. 13. Forecasts show a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms late in the day and into the evening on Aug. 14, O'Malley said. There are even better odds on Aug. 15 with a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms starting after 11 a.m., O'Malley added. Storm aftermath: Thousands lose power as monsoon storms sweep through Phoenix This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Will metro Phoenix receive more rain? What the forecast says OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Its back to the classroom for students across the metro as the first day of school is underway, and students prepare to learn new skills. Im excited because of my new teacher, said first-grader David. But, before the fun and excitement of the first day, preparations for the staff started early. Well, its been all summer, fleet maintenance has worked really hard on getting the buses ready. The drivers reported back about four days agowe went through some trainingand just getting ready, going over routes yesterday, said OKCPS Director of Transportation, Scott Lane. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The districts transportation director also wants to remind parents to check their childs bus route and get to the bus stop on time for pick up and drop off. LOCAL: Putnam City Schools implementing AI technology that can detect guns For the community, Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk wants to make sure youre helping kids stay safe, too. We are going to ask that our community, please be on the lookout in regards of our crosswalks and when you see a bus, slow downand if they have their flashing lights onplease stop, said Superintendent Dr. Jamie Polk, OKCPS. This is also the first year where students cant use cell phones during the day as part of the bell-to-bell law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even our students say that theyre used to having their cell phones, so that will be a major adjustment for this school year, said Dr. Polk. Bethany, Deer Creek, Edmond, Mustang, and Piedmont schools start on Thursday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. Federal prosecutors have charged two Mexican nationals living in Texas with bribing officials at Mexicos state-owned oil company, PEMEX. Petroleos Mexicanos, better known as Pemex, is Mexicos state-owned oil giant. 2024 data from Statista shows the company held assets worth roughly $109 billion and employed about 128,616 people. As one of the nations largest employers and a major contributor to government tax revenue, Pemex plays a central role in Mexicos economy. The bribery scheme allegedly tried to secure lucrative contracts for their businesses from PEMEX, according to the Department of Justice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This indictment should send a clear message that the Criminal Division will not tolerate those who enrich corrupt officials for personal gain and to the detriment of the fair market, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Galeotti. The indictment, unsealed Monday in the Southern District of Texas, alleges that Ramon Alexandro Rovirosa Martinez of The Woodlands and Mario Alberto Avila Lizarraga of Spring, Texas, conspired to pay at least $150,000 in bribes to win over and retain business with PEMEX and its exploration subsidiary company, PEMEX Exploracion y Produccion (PEP). According to court documents, between 2019 and 2021, the defendants allegedly offered cash, luxury items from brands such as Louis Vuitton and Hublot, and other valuable goods to at least three different PEMEX and PEP officials. These payments were reportedly meant to influence officials to favor companies associated with Rovirosa, supposedly helping his companies secure contracts valued at $2.5 million or even more. Rovirosa and Avila now face multiple counts under the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, each carrying a maximum penalty of five years per count. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rovirosa was taken into custody on Sunday and released after posting $1 million bail, allowing him to remain free while awaiting trial. He entered a not guilty plea the following day. Avila remains on the run as a fugitive, as of the time of publication. Bribery harms fair competition, erodes public trust, and will not be tolerated. Todays indictment underscores the commitment of the FBI, and our law enforcement partners, to fairness for communities in Texas and beyond, said Assistant Director Jose Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigation Division. Public officials in and around Espanola welcomed a move by the governor to boost funding for public safety, as they say their area is experiencing a crisis related to drugs and crime. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency Wednesday in Espanola and surrounding Rio Arriba County, pointing to rising crime and drug overdoses in the region. The governors proclamation authorizes about $750,000 in funding for local governments. While the executive order the governor signed Wednesday gives the state adjutant general the authority to call on New Mexico National Guard members to provide support to civil authorities as needed, a spokesperson for the Governors Office said there is no immediate order/move to deploy Guard members in the Northern New Mexico city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It isnt yet clear exactly how the money will be spent, but gubernatorial spokesperson Jodi McGinnis Porter said the funding will facilitate coordinated support for city, county and pueblo law enforcement agencies, which may include officer overtime, public safety equipment, and multi-agency interventions to address increases in crime and drug trafficking. 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, Lujan Grisham stated in the release. Difficult to get funding Police officials in the area said they plan to meet with the Governors Office next week to discuss plans for the funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mizel Garcia Mizel Garcia Espanolas police chief, Mizel Garcia, noted the city incorporates five different law enforcement jurisdictions, including two counties, two nearby pueblos and New Mexico State Police. He said he hopes the emergency order will provide another opportunity for the Espanola Police Department to work with Rio Arriba Sheriffs Office, the Santa Clara Police Department and Ohkay Owingeh Police Department, to hopefully better be more effective in fighting crime in our jurisdiction. What I want to do is to be very clear on what the parameters and what the criteria will be for us to utilize that funding, Garcia said. And I think thats why that meeting is so important for us to have, so that well have a clear, clear outline of how we can utilize that money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garcia said whether or not he would support a National Guard deployment at this time is a moot point, adding discussions would need to occur with each of the law enforcement agencies. Rio Arriba County Sheriff Lorenzo Aguilar said his agency is thankful for any help from the governor in addressing increases in drugs and overdoses in the county, which for years has had the highest overdose death rate in the state and one of the highest in the nation. Lorenzo Aguilar Lorenzo Aguilar Were asking for assistance with funding and whatever they can help us out with, Aguilar said. Small departments like us and Espanola Police Department, the tribal agencies its difficult to get funding for things like equipment and vehicles [and] recruitment and retention. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Something needs to be done The executive order states a surge in criminal activity and addiction has placed an extraordinary burden on local governments in the area, especially local police departments, and notes it has affected Santa Clara Pueblo and Ohkay Owingeh. A recent letter from Espanola Mayor Pro Tem Peggy Sue Martinez requesting help from the Governors Office noted reports of theft, violence, drug-related arrests and overdoses have risen sharply over the last two years and that 911 calls have more than doubled in the area. A news release from the state Republican Party incorrectly stated the governor announced the deployment of the New Mexico National Guard to Espanola, which Espanola City Councilor Sam LeDoux called a step in the right direction to protecting our citizens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sam LeDoux Sam LeDoux The past couple of years weve heard from some city leaders such as the mayor that downplayed some of the crime issues that been causing businesses to close, that have been causing people to feel unsafe and that have greatly impacted the way of life in our city, LeDoux, one of two Republicans on the council, said in a video posted on Facebook. Im glad that Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham sees what ordinary Espanolans see every single day that crime is out of control and something needs to be done. The partys release attributed a drop in crime nationwide to President Donald Trumps America First policies and his decisive action to secure the border, with party chair Amy Barela saying the people of Espanola deserve more than just street counselors and the [public safety aide]-like model in Albuquerque they deserve action that addresses the root of the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this year, Lujan Grisham declared a similar crime emergency in Albuquerque and deployed about 70 National Guard troops there, also allocating $750,000 for the operation. They have been assisting Albuquerque police with tasks such as securing crime scenes, booking people into jail and tagging evidence, and are not armed or authorized to make arrests. Trump has called up the National Guard for law enforcement purposes twice in June in response to protests against immigration enforcement in Los Angeles and again earlier this week as part of a federal crackdown on crime in Washington, D.C. Both times he was roundly criticized by Democrats, including Lujan Grisham, who cast his actions as an abuse of power and said her actions in Albuquerque and now Espanola are different because they were done in collaboration with local leaders. President Trump is attempting to use the National Guard as a city police force in a similar manner he used the military in California, which is about politics, not fighting crime, Lujan Grisham said in a joint statement Monday with Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller. The contrast couldnt be clearer: while President Trump uses the National Guard to trample local leadership, New Mexico brings together local and state governments to make our communities genuinely safer. A Rio Arriba County Sheriff's Office vehicle sits in front of a "no loitering" sign in Espanola last April. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Wednesday announced an emergency declaration aimed at dealing with rising crime in the small northern New Mexico city. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source NM) Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued an emergency declaration for the small city of Espanola and the surrounding area Wednesday, saying local police are overwhelmed with rising crime and drug overdose deaths. In an executive order, the governor authorized state resources, including the National Guard, to help after city, county and Pueblo leaders requested the assistance. According to the executive order, police calls in the Espanola area have doubled in the last two years, and police dispatches to businesses have quadrupled in that same period. She also cited Rio Arriba Countys high overdose death rate, with residents struggling with addiction to fentanyl and other illicit substances. Lujan Grishams order also authorized $750,000 in emergency spending. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action, Lujan Grisham said in a news release announcing the executive order. 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. Jodi McGinnis Porter, a spokesperson for the governors office, told Source NM the order is meant to help local, county and tribal police pay for officer overtime, public safety equipment, and multi-agency interventions to address the surge in violent crime and drug trafficking. This coordinated approach addresses the interconnected challenges of crime, overdoses, and community instability that have strained local capacity beyond their limits, she said in an email. There is no immediate assignment to deploy the National Guard, McGinnis Porter said, but that standard language in the governors executive order is there if needed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guard spokesperson Hank Minitrez also confirmed that. Guard hasnt been tasked with any mission, he said in a text message. The governor signed a similar executive order in April that authorized National Guard troops to assist law enforcement in Albuquerque, the states biggest city. The governors April declaration in Albuquerque drew denunciations from the American Civil Liberties Union of New Mexico. In that order, she also authorized $750,000 in emergency spending because she said Albuquerque was experiencing a significant increase in crime and requested help because it, too, did not have adequate resources to respond. But unlike the Albuquerque executive order that directed the emergency funding directly to the National Guard, the Espanola order directs the funds to the state Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, an agency that typically helps residents respond to wildfires, floods or other natural disasters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governors office provided Source recent letters from the Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh pueblos, along with Espanola and Rio Arriba County officials, asking the state to assist. She also forwarded along a series of charts from the Espanola Social Services Department director, Michelle Fraire, who said that the city has already seen 49 overdoses, compared with 40 in all of 2024. I predict this number will continue to increase and more than double, Fraire wrote, according to the materials the governors office provided. Danielle Silva, a spokesperson for Homeland Security, told Source that the department is receiving the funding to coordinate various state agencies, like it does after a natural disaster, to assist local officials dealing with the increased crime. Were kind of dealing with the state as a whole trying to figure out a multi-faceted response, she said. The details on that need to be fleshed out with the locals, but they asked for help so well figure out how to do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Silva said housing and other public safety are examples of how the states various agencies might be able to assist the communities. Espanola Police Chief Mizel Garcia told Source the reason why the city asked for help is because it doesnt have enough police officers to respond to a spike in crimes committed by young people and crimes involving guns. We lose a lot of officers to bigger agencies that pay more and offer more benefits, Garcia said in an interview. The issue for us is the availability of resources. The northern New Mexico city of just over 10,000 people cannot generate as much in tax revenue as larger cities, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Espanola borders the Pueblos of Ohkay Owingeh to the north and Santa Clara to the south, which the order says are also experiencing a significant increase in crime. Garcia said it is premature to say what the funding will be used for, and that will be determined once his agency can have a meeting with the Rio Arriba County Sheriffs Office and the Ohkay Owingeh and Santa Clara tribal police departments to develop a plan of action. Many parts within the city of Espanola are within the jurisdiction of our tribal agencies, so this isnt just for my department, this is something thats joint, Garcia said. Including the New Mexico State Police, there are five different police agencies that can respond to calls in the city, he said. Espanola officials said at a town hall meeting on crime and organized by the governor last summer that they were having trouble recruiting local police officers, given that Los Alamos National Laboratories offered similar candidates much higher pay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the same town hall, residents were divided about what the city should do about an unhoused encampment that grew alongside the Rio Grande in town. City officials cleared the encampment shortly after the meeting, drawing an outcry. In the Albuquerque executive order, the governor authorized up to 70 National Guard soldiers to arrive in the city of about 560,000. They were dressed in plain clothes and were instructed to help APD with non-law enforcement activities including traffic control, administrative duties, transporting incarcerated people, court security, emergency response and other critical functions that allow local law enforcement to focus on crime reduction efforts. The National Guard remains in Albuquerque, since the governor reauthorized its presence. The state has spent at least $2 million to keep it there. This story has been updated to correct which spokesperson responded on behalf of the governor. That person was Jodi McGinnis Porter. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Wednesday declared a state of emergency across Rio Arriba County in response to a surge in drug trafficking, violent crime and public safety threats that have overwhelmed local resources. When our local leaders called for help to protect their communities, we responded immediately with decisive action, said Lujan Grisham, per a statement from her office. 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 stretches from the city of Espanola to the Colorado state line and includes two Native American Pueblo communities. The county has long struggled with some of the highest opioid overdose death rates in the country, per Fox News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the statement from the Democratic governor, in the past two years, police calls in and around Espanola have more than doubled and police dispatches to businesses in the area have quadrupled in the same period. Rio Arriba County has the highest overdose death rate in the state, with residents struggling with addiction to fentanyl and other illicit substances, according to the statement. Lujan Grishams declaration authorizes up to $750,000 in emergency funding for Emergency Management and the Department of Homeland Security to provide resources to the affected communities and coordinate response efforts. The declaration comes as local governments and tribal officials in the county have been asking for reinforcements for the crime and drugs issues in the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, per the statement. This emergency declaration will remain in effect until the emergency assistance is no longer necessary or the authorized funds are expended. With this emergency declaration, there were no immediate calls for troop deployments to Rio Arriba County, though it does allow for authorities to call up the National Guard, per The Associated Press. The authorized emergency funds will help local law enforcement agencies spend on equipment, coordinated police responses and overtime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James Naranjo, the tribal governor of Santa Clara Pueblo outside Espanola, sent a letter to the governor in July asking for the state to address the growing public safety crisis stemming from drug and alcohol abuse in the community. 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 parents or guardians addiction, Naranjo wrote in the letter, per the AP. 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. This is the second time this year that Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency over crime in New Mexico, per CBS News. In April, she declared a state of emergency in Albuquerque to address a spike in juvenile crime and fentanyl. That declaration included deploying around 70 New Mexico National Guard members to the states largest city. A man wanted in connection with the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriffs deputy in Cypress Park has been returned to the U.S. from Mexico to face charges. Roberto Salazar, 38, was arrested in March by Mexican authorities and transferred Tuesday into U.S. custody. Justice has been a long time coming, but today we are one step closer, Sheriff Robert Luna said during a news conference at the Hall of Justice on Wednesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The L.A. County district attorney's office will charge Salazar with first-degree murder with special circumstances and conspiracy to commit murder. He faces a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Salazars arraignment Thursday morning was postponed until Sept. 22 because he did not yet have a defense attorney. Appearing before Judge Theresa McGonigle, Salazar stood slightly stooped over in a glass-enclosed holding area with his hair buzzed and wearing an orange jail shirt. Two female relatives of Salazar who attended the hearing declined to comment, as did Deputy Dist. Atty. Eric Siddall, who appeared for the prosecution. Salazar was handed over along with 25 other prisoners described by U.S. and Mexican authorities as high-ranking drug cartel members. Mexico long ago abolished capital punishment and reportedly agreed to the mass prisoner transfer on the condition that none face the death penalty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Salazar's case dates back to Aug. 2, 2008, when Juan Abel Escalante was shot in the back of the head as he was reaching to adjust a childs seat inside his car outside his parents' house as he readied to leave for his job at Mens Central Jail. By December 2012, four of the six alleged members of the notorious Avenues gang that authorities accused of having been involved in the killing had been arrested and charged. That list included Carlos Velasquez, who was arrested in December 2008 and ultimately pleaded guilty to murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Authorities said Velasquez shot Escalante multiple times after mistaking him for a rival gang member. U.S. Atty. Gen. Pamela Bondi described the return of the 26 men as the latest example of the Trump administration's historic efforts to dismantle cartels and foreign terrorist organizations in a statement Tuesday. Celeste Escalante, the widow of Juan Abel Escalante, and their daughter watch as pallbearers carry the deputy's casket during funeral services on Aug. 8, 2008. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) Escalante and his family were living at his parents home in Cypress Park at the time of his slaying. He had served in the Army Reserve and had been working for the Sheriffs Department for 2 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My words go out to the Escalante family," Dist. Atty. Nathan Hochman said Wednesday. "That relentess pursuit of justice is not over, but we are almost there." 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. LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has joined a coalition of 37 attorneys general to urge Instagram to make immediate changes to its location-sharing feature. In a news release sent to 6 News, the 37 attorneys general outlined public safety concerns in a letter that was sent to Adam Mosseri, Instagrams Head. The coalition reports that the location-sharing changes in the app show users precise locations on a map. They say that the feature heightens dangers for vulnerable users, including children and survivors of domestic violence, and that this tool can be exploited by predators, stalkers, and other malicious actors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meta has a responsibility to protect its users, especially children, from online predators, Nessel said in a news release sent to 6 News. This new location-sharing feature undermines safety and could have devastating consequences. I urge Instagram to implement stronger safeguards to protect the privacy and security of young users before its too late. Nessel says the letter sent to Instagram highlights these main points: Ensure that minors cannot enable location-sharing features. Send a clear alert to all adult users explaining the feature, outlining its risks, and providing full disclosure of how Instagram will use their location data. For adults who choose to opt in, provide a simple, easy-to-access control to disable location sharing at any time. Protect-Instagram-User-Privacy-Multistate-AG-LetterDownload Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News. U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar speaks at his election night party in Detroit on Aug. 6, 2024 | Ken Coleman U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit) failed to publicly report the purchase of up to $50,000 in stock shares purchased from a well-known proxy for cryptocurrency holdings, a violation of a law created to prevent conflicts of interest and increase transparency around lawmakers stock trades. A periodic transaction report filed this week with the clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives shows Thanedar purchased common stock in MicroStrategy Incorporated in an amount ranging from $15,000 to $50,000. The report date and its notification date listed the purchase as occurring more than a year ago on July 1, 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The transaction type was listed as a stock purchase, but MicroStrategy is well-known as a Bitcoin treasury and the largest corporate holder of the cryptocurrency, owning 423,650 bitcoins worth $42.43 billion, according to a CNBC report published in 2024. The Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act of 2012 does not ban trading for sitting federal lawmakers, but it does require them to disclose stock purchases of more than $1,000 within 45 days. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Violations of the act are rectified through fines against lawmakers starting at $200 per violation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with Michigan Advance on Thursday, Thanedar said the MicroStrategy stock buy was something that his wife purchased and was something that he just became aware of recently. As soon as I became aware, I reported it, Thanedar said. [People are] trying to make it like this was intentional, but it was not. I have also been reporting my crypto holdings for years, so theres no particular reason to not report this one transaction under $50,000, when I had reported other transactions within minutes [of those purchases]. As far as penalties for any potential violation of the law, Thanedar said he has not had any communication with the U.S. House Ethics Committee. Thanedar indicated that he was willing to pay the fine if he had to. The congressman also reiterated that he reports all his stock holdings in a timely manner, and although this one fell through the cracks, it did not represent a pattern. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If my delay of reporting one stock caused a problem, then, if there is a consequence, I would pay for it, Thanedar said. Its less than 1% of what was not reported, this one stock is one out of maybe 500 or 1,000. I dont know how many individual stocks I have. Although Thanedar is nowhere near the Top 10 wealthiest members of Congress, he is ranked No. 30 with a net worth of $40.97 million out of the 457 members, according to a list compiled by Quiver Quantitative, a website that tracks alternative data for trading trends and analysis. News of the purchase and the potential violation related to the MicroStrategy stock was first reported by NOTUS, a nonprofit news organization based in Washington, D.C. Other reports show that this was the second time since 2023 that Thanedar potentially violated the STOCK Act. Thaendar told NOTUS that he plans to direct his financial advisors to no longer invest in individual stocks and to sell off the ones that remain. The congressman, however, was less committed to that plan when speaking to the Advance on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im just like any other investor, and I have been investing in stocks for 30 or 40 years now, way before I became a public servant, Thanedar said. When I talked to the agent, I was wondering aloud about was it worth even doing this, and is it better for me to just get out of stock so there are no misunderstandings of my intent. When asked about his advisors response to that question, Thanedar said he was advised that it was not financially wise to just dump stocks like that. If I direct them to, they will, but this is not financially smart, Thaendar said. Asked whether he planned to do that or if it was something he was just taking under consideration, Thanedar told the Advance that he was talking with advisors about whether it was worth the perception questions that surround holding individual stock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The late report also raises questions about Thaendars cryptocurrency holdings and a potential conflict of interest given that the congressman is a member of a cryptocurrency subcommittee that has been exploring the expansion of digital coins as a major new asset. He recently voted for three pro-cryptocurrency bills that provide a regulatory framework for digital markets and stablecoins, complete with consumer and financial privacy protections. Thanedar told the Advance that he didnt see his holdings in cryptocurrency as a conflict of interest because hes been investing in the area since 2017, and that his recent purchases were not related to any of his work on cryptocurrency in Congress. I believe in a digital future, Thanedar said. Digital currency is the future. I believed that in 2017 and I believe it today. I have invested in this before I was a member of Congress and even if I invested now as a member of Congress, I really dont see an issue. The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned two Mexican cartels and seven cartel members on Thursday for drug trafficking, terrorism, and extorting farmers in a sweeping action targeting criminal groups fueling violence across Mexico. The sanctions against Carteles Unidos and Los Viagras mark the latest effort by federal agencies to dismantle revenue streams for cartels threatening American and Mexican communities through fentanyl trafficking, kidnappings, and agricultural extortion. Todays sanctions action draws further attention to the diverse, insidious ways the cartels engage in violent activities and exploit otherwise legitimate commerce, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a press release. Treasury, alongside our partners in U.S. law enforcement, will continue to target every effort by the cartels to generate revenue for their violent, criminal schemes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The action coincides with the unsealing of federal indictments against five cartel members and the announcement of State Department reward offers for information leading to their arrests. Both cartels operate in Michoacan, western Mexicos agricultural heartland, where criminal groups battle for control of drug routes and extortion rackets. The violence has disrupted avocado exports to the United States and threatened American agricultural officials. Carteles Unidos, designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization in February, produces synthetic opioids for trafficking in U.S. markets and has been linked to the recruitment of foreign mercenaries and the use of improvised explosives against Mexican soldiers. The groups leader, Juan Jose Farias Alvarez, known as El Abuelo, has committed multiple murders and trafficked drugs, according to the Treasury Department. His lieutenant, Luis Enrique Barragan Chavez, called Wicho, runs the cartels avocado extortion network. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Los Viagras, allied with the notorious Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion, traffics methamphetamine and cocaine while extracting payments from citrus growers and cattle ranchers. In one case, the group went so far as to set up internet networks and forced a local municipality to fund them under threat of death. Its founder, Nicolas Sierra Santana, nicknamed El Gordo, leads alongside Heladio Cisneros Flores and Cesar Alejandro Sepulveda Arellano, both linked to murders of anti-cartel figures. Mexican farmers face death threats for refusing cartel payments, with some victims forced to pay multiple groups competing for territory. The extortion schemes have expanded beyond agriculture to include land seizures and illegal logging operations. The sanctions freeze all U.S. assets belonging to the designated individuals and organizations while banning Americans from conducting business with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foreign banks risk secondary sanctions for processing transactions involving the sanctioned cartels. Treasury officials emphasized that removal from sanctions lists remains possible for those who change their behavior. The coordinated action involved the Justice Department, DEA, FBI, Homeland Security, and Mexicos Financial Intelligence Unit, building on recent Treasury efforts targeting cartel fuel theft, arms trafficking, and human smuggling networks. In 2023, Justine Wilson launched her Curious and Kind Education forest-based microschool in Sarasota, Fla. Enrollment there, much like the rest of the microschool sector, has seen a boom, and operators such as Wilson believe state laws are a key to the future growth of alternative school settings like hers (photo submitted). When Siri Fiske founded the Mysa Microschool in Washington, D.C., in 2016, there wasnt a widely accepted term for her small, one-room schoolhouse model. Now, the school is referred to on its website as one of the first microschools in the nation, and Fiske has seen a growing microschool movement since the COVID-19 pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the five years since remote schooling amid pandemic-era lockdowns, microschools and homeschooling have emerged as increasingly popular alternatives to traditional public and private models. Smaller class sizes, individualized classrooms and lack of standardization are an appeal to parents, Fiske said. Theres this idea that people who open microschools are doing it for cultish or religious reasons, and theres a misconception that all are like that, Fiske said. Ive seen my students graduate into top colleges. Theres many ways to achieve academic success. Some education experts, however, have expressed concern about the growing movement. They question whether microschools are properly regulated and being held accountable, and whether theyll pull dollars out of the public education system. There is no federal definition of a microschool, and with the Trump administrations plans to shutter the U.S. Department of Education, the onus is on states to figure them out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In some states, microschools face a bind: If they operate as private schools, theyre required to meet facility, staffing and curricular standards that are often cost-prohibitive for schools their size. If they operate under homeschool laws, they face oversight, assessment mandates and reporting requirements that arent designed for multifamily or educator-led models. Some states, including Georgia, Tennessee and Texas, have passed Learning Rights Protection Acts to codify microschools right to operate. In Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts and Oregon, learning pods and microschools often face child care or private school licensing requirements if they involve multiple families, hire instructors or provide compensation for child care. Schools calling themselves microschools today are not what I wouldve called one back then. But I think thats OK. Its evolving, Fiske said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She pointed to the national school choice movement and states such as West Virginia for helping the microschool movement flourish. In 2022, West Virginia became one of the few states to define a microschool, distinctly separating it from a private school, homeschool or learning pod. Those classifications, and how these schools are funded and regulated, affect everything from whether a school must hire certified teachers to how it ensures student safety or civil rights protections. And with more public dollars flowing to private or hybrid learning options through vouchers and education savings accounts to the detriment of public school funding, some argue states will need to define these schools and their place in the ecosystem. States will have to fill the gaps, said Weade James, senior director of K-12 education policy with the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning policy think tank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accountability can vary wildly. Some microschools arent required to have certified teachers, conduct annual assessments, or even guarantee civil rights protections, said James. If public voucher dollars are going to a microschool, there has to be some level of oversight and accountability. Many microschools arent accredited Microschools defy easy classification, and many advocates argue thats by design. Don Soifer, CEO of the National Microschooling Center, an industry group, cautions lawmakers against rushing to impose fixed legal definitions. Innovation is happening too fast. The moment you define it in law, it becomes obsolete, Soifer said. A 2024 sector analysis by the National Microschooling Center one of the only sources of national data on the topic found that many schools are operating outside traditional education principles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a survey of 400 microschools across 41 states, more than 60% of founders reported they were not currently licensed educators. Eighty-four percent reported their schools were not accredited. Among prospective founders, 48% are licensed educators (though only 14% currently work in public schools), 32% come from non-education fields, and 23% are parents building schools for their own children. Most microschools (55%) operate under homeschool laws, while others function as private schools (37%), charters (6%) or fall into unique state categories (3%), according to the analysis. So, you can be a private or homeschool microschool program, where you arent required to provide students with certified teachers, or you arent required to conduct annual assessments, James said. Often described as homeschool hybrids or small-scale learning communities, microschools often serve around 16 students or fewer, and tend to cater to families with average or above-average incomes in their area. In some states, microschools have been authorized to receive public funds through voucher programs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some critics note that, like private schools, microschools may charge tuition, potentially excluding lower-income families and contributing to educational disparities. These schools often operate in commercial spaces (41%), private residences (28%) or houses of worship (25%), according to the National Microschooling Center. The center also found the movement is diversifying: 37% of prospective founders are people of color, compared with 27% of current operators. Because building and zoning codes vary from state to state and locality to locality, many operators may be unaware of the extra costs to meet school codes standards. Fiske recalls difficulties in expanding from Washington, D.C., to Vermont, which has stricter laws on water fountain requirements. Most people in the U.S. starting a microschool are doing it under the radar because the regulations to open a licensed school are so intense, Fiske said. For the new school, she recalled, it took us forever, and we had to install ADA-compliant toilets and water fountains for just 10 kids in Vermont. Microschooling is not one thing Microschools also operate in a legal gray zone, often outside the traditional K-12 system and subject to a patchwork of state and local policies that can either support or constrain their growth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Growth has accelerated in conservative-leaning states with robust school choice programs, such as Arizona and Florida. Other states, such as Maryland, New York and North Dakota, have more restrictive homeschool or private school laws. Microschooling is not one thing. These schools look different in every state, and the policy frameworks around them vary wildly, said Soifer, of the National Microschooling Center. What is classified as a microschool can vary from 10 kids in a basement in Kentucky to a 200-kid schoolhouse elsewhere. Fiske said states need to create a way for operators and parents to know what to expect in a certain state, and help willing operators get the education and business acumen they need to run the schools successfully. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But if you look at who is starting microschools in the U.S., its a lot of millennial parents who may not have any teacher training but wanted to create a learning environment for their children and others in the local community, said Fiske. And without efforts by the state to provide some incentives to earn accreditation and information as both a school and a small business, a few of these will find themselves going under. Seeking choices After two decades working in conventional schools in the United States and around the world including in Brazil, Egypt and Qatar Justine Wilson turned down a high-paying leadership role at a prestigious private school. Instead, in 2023 she opened Curious and Kind Education, a two-day-a-week microschool in Sarasota, Florida, built around trust, nature-based learning and self-directed play. Enrollment at Curious and Kind is mostly driven by word of mouth, she said. The program now has a waitlist. And Wilson has seen her enrollment grow from 18 students in her first year to roughly 100 students for the upcoming school year. The number of 5-year-olds on my waitlist is shocking, she said, and then I realized theyre COVID babies and their parents have really been driving this search for alternative schooling since the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement James, of the Center for American Progress, questions whether microschools generally match the quality of traditional public schools, which still educate more than 80% of schoolchildren. She says families may be under the assumption that school choice options equate to better quality. We have created an illusion of choice to be quality, and I think a lot of families are seeking various choice options because they associate that with quality. But that doesnt necessarily mean that where those students are going is any better than where they left, she said. We need to take a closer look at what we are presenting to families, James said. Its not just about having options and having a choice. Its about having quality choice options. That quality, Soifer said, is what microschools are trying to achieve. Microschools do very well on the left, on the right at the top end of the economy and at the fragile end of the income spectrum, he said. Its really a matter of the new economy and a new way of thinking about education. 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. LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WPRI) Detectives have arrested a middle school librarian accused of disseminating child pornography online, according to the United States Attorneys Office for the District of Massachusetts. Scott McGinley, 55, of Holyoke, was taken into custody Wednesday and charged with distribution of child pornography. McGinley works as a librarian for Longmeadow Public Schools, specifically at Williams Middle School and Glenbrook Middle School, according to prosecutors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The investigation began back in July after an undercover detective with FBI Nashville reportedly caught him distributing child pornography through a group chat called Little boyz only on an encrypted messenger app. Scott McGinley (Courtesy: U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Massachusetts) In the group chat, McGinley disclosed his sexual preference for boys age 2-12 and especially 4-7 under the username DadaAnon, according to charging documents. McGinley reportedly told the undercover detective that he had students who were 11-14 years old but ha[d]nt touched them sexually. He also told the detective he sat hot boys strategically so [he could] see under their desks, and close to [him], according to charging documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FBI Nashville reached out to FBI Springfield after detectives obtained McGinleys IP address and traced it back to his residence in Massachusetts. Detectives searched McGinleys home last Friday and took his two iPhones, an Apple watch and two laptops during the search. Charging documents also revealed that detectives found a locked Pelican case in McGinleys basement, which reportedly contained assorted childrens clothes, a Santa costume, diapers, diaper cream and apple sauce packets, as well as a toolbox with boys underwear and bedding stuffed inside. A forensic examination of one of McGinleys iPhones uncovered more than 100 files depicting child sexual abuse. His other electronics are still being processed, according to the charging documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Longmeadow Superintendent Marty OShea confirmed McGinley is no longer employed by the district, noting that his last day was Tuesday. OShea described the investigation as a highly troubling and disturbing criminal matter that the district does not take lightly. Our highest priority is and always will be student safety and well being, OShea wrote in a letter to families. 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. OShea said the district is fully cooperating with the investigation and will continue to openly communicate with families about this distressing situation. 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. Follow us on social media: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. The town of Middletown is readying three parks to install security equipment using a state grant. This year, the town received a $100,000 Community Safety Works grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to install two cameras at three parks: Remsberg, Memorial and Wiles Branch. Robert Wilkes, the town administrator, said in an interview on Wednesday that the town applied for the grant in April 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Feb. 10, the town commissioners and burgess unanimously approved the project, which was expected to cost $98,795 and did not require a matching amount from the town. Wilkes said the majority of the work that the town has done this year to get the sites ready for cameras included electrical wiring and utility work, as well as digging trenches for the electrical equipment. He said six panoramic cameras, which can capture 270 degrees of video, were purchased, and that the grant also covered the contracting and labor costs. Wilkes added that since the project cost less than the grant total, the town was considering adding one camera to Heritage Park, as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Paul Mantello, the previous town administrator, applied for the grant after he saw an opportunity and jumped on it. Wilkes said car break-ins at the parks, as well as future playground equipment and other improvements coming to Wiles Branch, were factored into the decision to put up cameras. According to the Feb. 10 meeting minutes, the parks will have servers, cameras, license plate recognition devices and audio deterrents installed. Wilkes said the contractor wanted to put all of the cameras in at the same time and is waiting on the completion of the site work. He said the cameras will be installed most likely by September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The town said items were stolen from two cars last week at Remsberg Park. Middletown Burgess John Miller said in an interview on Tuesday that both thefts occurred during the day while the owners of the cars were playing pickleball. He said items such as wallets and credit cards were taken. One car was unlocked. The other car was locked and had a window broken. Miller said it was not clear if the thieves drove into the park or were walking by. It seems like it was kind of scouting out, he said. They had some idea of what they were looking for and where they thought it might be easy to do it. The equipment to be installed at the parks is meant to monitor vehicle and individuals activities in order to increase safety and reduce vandalism and other crimes, according to the Feb. 10 meeting minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Information captured by the cameras will be kept for 15 days before it is overwritten. Wilkes said those with access to the footage will most likely be the two town deputies and the senior staff of the town. He said they will have the capability to review it remotely, either in real time if needed ... or if something happens, like the break-ins at the pickleball courts, we can go back and review the footage. Wilkes said he has heard about other thefts across the county, and the cameras should be a deterrent. Anytime you can add a level of security to your parks and the community, its a good thing, he said. Miller said residents should be vigilant. He reiterated that residents should lock their doors and should not leave visible valuables unattended in their cars. DICKSON CITY A New Jersey company sold a shopping center on Commerce Boulevard to FJC Holdings LLC of Pennsylvania for $2.3 million, according to a deed recorded Tuesday in Lackawanna County. The seller, 605 Valley Road Corp. of Upper Montclair,, previously bought the multitenant building at 1152 Commerce Blvd. from Dickson City-based Siniawa XV LP, for $1.9 million in October 2022. Tenants of the shopping center include Starbucks, Great Clips and Charles Schwab. Two migrants have been arrested at an asylum hotel in connection with alleged organised shoplifting at luxury stores in the West End of London. The men were arrested at a Holiday Inn in Wembley, north-west London, on suspicion of theft on Thursday morning, the Metropolitan Police said. The arrests came after a security firm notified the media that organised gangs were stealing thousands of pounds of designer clothing from luxury stores. The firm had become exasperated with the lack of a police response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gang struck at stores including Liberty, Polo Ralph Lauren and John Lewis in the heart of Londons West End. A Met Police spokesman said: The men, aged 36 and 31, were arrested at a hotel in Wembley on the morning of Thursday Aug 14, on suspicion of theft. They remain in custody. Our investigation is ongoing. Migrants were allegedly seen leaving the Holiday Inn with bags lined with tin foil, which stop security alarms going off when tagged items are taken out of a store. Area is verging on lawless A source who works in private security told The Sun, which first reported on the alleged thefts, that when detained, the migrants showed ID cards and admitted they were asylum seekers, knowing that little could be done. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The whistleblower said: The situation is getting out of control. We are helpless and cannot tackle the sheer numbers flooding the streets. I honestly think the area is verging on lawless. The police only turn up for two out of every 10 men we detain. The Holiday Inn in Wembley is home to 700 immigrants and is one of more than 200 asylum hotels around Britain. At least 312 asylum seekers have been charged with 708 alleged criminal offences in just three years including rape, sexual assault, attacking emergency workers and theft. The alleged offences committed by asylum seekers who gave immigration hotels as their addresses in court include 18 charges of rape, five of attempted rape, 35 of sexual assault and 51 of theft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The data also shows there have been 89 charges of assault 27 of which allegedly targeted police officers or other emergency workers 43 of drug offences, 18 of burglary and 16 of robbery. At one recent hearing involving a migrant accused of theft, attended by The Telegraph, the court was told: He has been here for three years and he lives in one of the hotels provided by immigration. He started committing criminal offences as soon as he got here. 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 A military couple has been charged with murder after allegedly starving their young daughter to death last year Brandon Kelley and Stacey Kelley potentially face life in prison without the possibility of parole The Justice Department said Brandon Kelley was an enlisted soldier at the time of his daughter's death A former U.S. soldier and his wife could spend the rest of their lives behind bars after authorities allege they starved their young daughter to death. The Justice Department announced late last week that Brandon Kelley and Stacey Kelley have been charged with felony murder and two counts of second-degree murder. Federal prosecutors allege that their child, Vyolet Kelley, "died because she was deprived of adequate nourishment and medical care while living at Fort Stewart Military Reservation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News4Jax reported that the alleged abuse took place between October and November 2024, though it is not clear when the couples daughter died or how old she was at the time of her death. PEOPLE has reached out to the Justice Department for more information about the case. Local jail records show the Kelleys have both been held without bond since Aug. 8. According to the news release, Brandon, 29, was an enlisted soldier at the time and lived on the Georgia military base with his wife, 26, and their young daughter. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The allegations in this case are heartbreaking on many levels, Acting United States Attorney Tara M. Lyons said in a statement announcing the charges. Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice. The Kelleys could potentially face life in prison without parole if convicted, DOJ said in the statement. Fort Stewart is the same installation where a service member allegedly opened fire on his fellow soldiers last week, injuring 5. The suspect, Sergeant Quornelius Radford, faces various charges including attempted premeditated murder. Read the original article on People Milwaukee County has identified $23 million in preliminary damage from historic flooding and rainfall from the Aug. 9 storm. This includes damage to roads, park systems, bridges and waterways. The number is expected to grow as the assessment process continues, Cassandra Libal, Director of the Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management said during a press conference Aug. 14. The county has completed 2,400 assessments and hopes to submit final numbers to both FEMA and the state this week. Then, both entities will evaluate the report and determine what aid, if any, will be released. Derek Dula and his brother-in-law Jalani Watson remove a portion of carpet from Dulas home on the afternoon of Aug. 11, 2025, the day after the family escaped through their side window due to severe flooding in Wauwatosa. It is my strong hope that the federal government will step in to provide resources that our residents need, County Executive David Crowley said at the press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Tony Evers has also requested FEMA support after declaring a state of emergency on Aug. 11. The assessment will include data from 150 people currently surveying the county and residents who have reported damage to the 211 number. The Wisconsin Emergency Management team completed its operations on Aug. 14, and the county will continue with the rest of the assessment until all areas of the county have been evaluated. When this process is completed, we hope to have a more accurate picture of the damage," Libal said. However, the true extent of the damage will reveal itself over time. The county has also launched a resource page on its website which will provide updates on recovery efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The page includes health and safety guidelines, volunteer opportunities and resources for flood victims. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee County reports $23 million in preliminary damage from storm The Brief Gov. Tony Evers is requesting FEMA assistance following historic flooding around Wisconsin. Residents face long cleanup efforts and hours-long waits at city drop-off centers. Families without insurance are relying on community help to recover. MILWAUKEE - Gov. Tony Evers is asking the Trump administration for FEMA assistance as Milwaukee and other areas continue to recover from the weekends historic flooding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cleanup is far from over. Cleanup and rebuilding Local perspective For families like Xeng Xiongs, whose parents home was destroyed, the focus remains on cleanup before any rebuilding can begin. "I am just speechless. My parents dont have flood insurance they dont even have insurance at all. So we are going to have to build it from the bottom," Xiong said. "We have people from our church coming here to help us." FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android They have been helping remove water-damaged belongings. "Right now, theres just too many people there," Xiong said. "We are fighting against time because right now as we speak our house is still wet." Drop-off centers busy Big picture view At the citys two drop-off centers, the number of flood victims has made for long wait times. Beverly Love said she counted "20 people in the back of us, and 20 people in the front of us." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tyrone Love reported waiting "about three hours." Thousands have visited the centers since Sunday. "It turned off everything our lights, our TV, I think a tree came down right close to us. Thankfully, no one got injured, but I couldnt imagine how terrible it would be," Love said. The city has extended hours at the drop-off centers to 6 p.m. through Sunday, though officials say that could be extended if needed. The Department of Public Works may also cut off lines earlier to ensure everyone in line is served before closing. SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Its like literally 40 cars even in the morning," Xiong said. Love said her family will be back early: "We are going to go fill the truck up again, they said they open up at 7 so we will be out here at 6 again." What you can do Xiong's family started a GoFundMe to raise money to start over. Evers asks for help What they're saying Evers sent FEMA the following letter: "Dear Acting Regional Administrator Chesney: On behalf of the state of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Emergency Management, I am requesting that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) work with the state of Wisconsin to develop a plan for conducting a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment to determine if Wisconsin meets the thresholds for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration. Wisconsin Emergency Management reported to me today that, based on the initial state and local review of damages, we believe Wisconsin may meet and exceed the threshold to receive federal FEMA support and aid to recover from recent severe weather events that have caused devastating flooding and destruction in Wisconsin. Earlier this week, I declared a state of emergency in response to flooding and severe weather impacts, which I understand is an important step toward Wisconsin receiving federal support and assistance in responding to damage caused by recent severe weather across our state. I also understand that FEMA needs damage assessment information from Wisconsin in order to conduct a preliminary damage assessment. Wisconsin Emergency Management is currently collecting detailed damage assessment information from our affected communities and will submit this information to FEMA as soon as possible. I similarly ask that you begin work in partnership with Wisconsin Emergency Management to conduct the preliminary damage assessment as soon as possible. I understand the president must issue a major disaster declaration for Wisconsinites, our communities, and the state to receive public and individual aid and assistance, and I understand the preliminary damage assessment is a crucial step toward that eventual goal. To be clear, should Wisconsin reach the threshold to receive federal FEMA support and aid based on the results of the preliminary damage assessment, Wisconsin Emergency Management and I will work expeditiously to submit a formal request for a presidential disaster declaration. Wisconsin Emergency Management and FEMA have been in close coordination this week and we appreciate FEMAs support and assistance. I look forward to this continued partnership and receiving support from FEMA and the federal government to support Wisconsins efforts to recover and rebuild. Thank you for your assistance and timely consideration of this urgent request. Respectfully, Tony Evers Governor" The Source The information in this post was collected and produced by FOX6 News. Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson joins city health department officials on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, to give updates about the flood recovery efforts. (Photo by Isiah Holmes/Wisconsin Examiner) Milwaukee County continues to process the aftermath of a historic flooding that swept through the area last weekend. Although much of the flood water, which exceeded 10 inches in some areas, has receded, emergency shelters are still providing services to people displaced by the extreme weather, and community clean-up efforts continue. At a press conference Wednesday, Mayor Cavalier Johnson said residents should call 211 to report property damage, which he called an important step towards achieving an official disaster declaration, which in turn could provide additional resources. Johnson said local officials continue to work with state and federal partners to access resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and noted a recent visit to the city by Gov. Tony Evers. Flood damage to local businesses in Milwaukee after the August 2025 storm. (Photo courtesy of the Milwaukee Health Department) Were asking for the federal government to do their part and issue some relief to the folks here in Milwaukee with some assistance from FEMA, Johnson said. The city continues to wait for President Donald Trumps administration to respond to Milwaukees calls for support. Johnson encouraged residents to report downed trees, abandoned vehicles, standing water and to check on neighbors or loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mayor praised Milwaukeeans for stepping up, helping senior citizens to clear out basements and clearing out storm drains. We really appreciate the efforts of people all across our city who are stepping up to make this a safer place for everybody as we work to get through the aftermath of the storm, he said. Were a resilient city, we always have been, we always will be, and we will get through this together. Johnson was joined by Mike Totoraitis, commissioner of the Milwaukee Health Department. Totoraitis said that calling 211 is your best connection to resources at this point, noting that there are some large wait times on 211 during those peak hours. Like the mayor, Totoraitis said that calling 211 is also one of the best ways to essentially convince the federal government to send assistance. We know that many people have lost water heaters, furnaces, furniture, personal effects, there is a lot of damage that has happened, he said. Drive through neighborhoods across the city and see just debris and items out on someones driveway. So this is a critical moment to get those damage reports in, and then were also using that to help prioritize where were going to bring additional resources. Working with the Red Cross and other partners, Totoraitis said that the city is deploying hundreds of cleaning kits and other supplies. Meanwhile, the health department is monitoring signs of disease. Totoraitis said residents should assume any standing water in the streets or in homes is contaminated with sewage and avoid it. Flooded streets in Milwaukee during the August 2025 storm. (Photo courtesy of Anne Tuchelski) The Red Cross has established two shelters, one on the near North Side and another on the South Side, to help people displaced by the flood. Dozens of people sought assistance from the shelters, a Red Cross worker told Wisconsin Examiner. The two locations have recently been consolidated into one shelter now operating out of Marshall High School, according to a Red Cross worker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Monday, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley thanked first responders, Evers, and the National Guard for assisting. I know this is an incredibly challenging and devastating time for many of our residents, but Im inspired seeing neighbors helping neighbors, businesses stepping up to support those in need, and the tireless dedication of our first responders and emergency management personnel, said Crowley. Milwaukee County is a strong and resilient community, and I know that by coming together, we will persevere. On Tuesday, Crowley walked through storm-damaged neighborhoods near Brown Deer with officials from the countys Office of Emergency Management. On Wednesday, Wisconsin Policy Forum released a report warning that severe flooding could become more frequent. Over the past 45 years Wisconsin has seen a dramatic increase in damage caused by flooding, as the climate has warmed, extreme rains have become more common, and urban development has continued, the report states. Increased flooding in turn has resulted in larger payouts on flood insurance claims, as well as increased federal and state payments for disaster recovery. With projections suggesting that continued climate change will further increase the likelihood of extreme rains, federal, state, and local governments will need to deal with the consequences. Milwaukee Health Commissioner Dr. Mike Totoraitis. (Photo by Isiah Holmes/Wisconsin Examiner) The report shows that during the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s, flood insurance damage claims for property in Wisconsin exceeded $40 million. Severe floods that struck Milwaukee in 2008 caused nearly $50 million in flood insurance damage claims. Current projections show that the frequency of heavy rain events and the potential for devastating floods will continue to grow over the coming decades, the report states. Property owners, along with state and local governments, will be on the hook for the costs of cleaning up and rebuilding after these floods occur. As costs grow, they may begin to stress state and local budgets, especially if state leaders decide to cover a growing share of the rebuilding costs. In addition, there are some questions about the federal governments long-term commitment to covering these costs, which may push additional costs onto the state. Taking care of each other Many people are continuing to wrap their minds around the scale of the flood damage. When Evers visited Milwaukee County, he was joined by Rep. Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) on a tour of the area Vining represents. Wauwatosa produced some of the most dramatic images of flood damage, with most of Hart Park seemingly underwater and overflowing wetlands in the County Grounds natural area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vining said in a statement that the damage is serious, and the pain across the community is real. Lets be good neighbors and take care of each other during this difficult time. Anne Tuchelski, a 29-year-old lifelong resident of Milwaukee in the Bay View neighborhood, saw people stepping up to help one another as a summers-worth of rain fell in the middle of the night last weekend across Milwaukee. Tuchelski realized something was wrong after her neighborhoods main intersection was completely flooded. Ive never seen it like this, she told Wisconsin Examiner. My gutters were just pouring out and just slamming on the pavementIve never seen this before. A truck partially submerged on a flooded street in Milwaukee during the August 2025 storm. (Photo courtesy of Anne Tuchelski) Tuchelskis 85-year-old grandmother, who has also lived in Milwaukee for her whole life, had never seen such a storm before either. Tuchelski drove to her grandmothers house in the middle of the night to check on her. The water was rising dramatically. That was really the kicker, was that it was happening in the middle of the night, she said. Driving down the darkened, flooded roadways, Tuchelski saw people stranded in their cars. From 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. she used her SUV to offer people rides and to push stalled vehicles out of the water, helping wherever I could. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tuchelski recalled one woman whose car was stranded in floodwater near the freeway. Shed left home to pick up her son, and needed her car to go to work in the morning. Tuchelski tried to get her to understand that her vehicle was flooded, and that the tow truck shed decided to wait for likely wouldnt come because of the scale of the disaster. It was just really heartbreaking to see her try to come to terms with the fact that the next day is going to change greatly, Tuchelski said. She offered her a ride, but the woman refused. Its like she wasnt grasping that nobody can come right now. Everybodys overwhelmed, everybodys doing their best, and the cars gone. And youre standing in the middle of the intersection at 3 oclock in the morning. She just couldnt grasp it, and I ran into multiple people like that who just could not grasp it. Flooding in Wauwatosa after the August 2025 storm. (Photo courtesy of Erol Reyal) Another person Tuchelski encountered was in a U-Haul truck attempting to move their things, and seemingly unable to accept that it was all already gone or ruined. I kept saying to her, You have to leave it, and shes like, My stuff, my stuff, and I was like, We cant. Its underwater. So it was just a repeated thing with people, where they just could not come to terms with leaving their belongings behind for their own survival, and their own well-being. Tuchelski herself lost many family tapes, pictures and dresses in the flood. Tuchelskis family has lived in Milwaukee for over a century. Her grandmothers basement is still flooded, and so is Tuchelskis aunts basement. My grandmothers home has raised five generations of family, said Tuckelski. And just to see things float by and be damaged, it was really heartbreaking Things that make our family, and have recorded these moments, and have become important to us, just floating by. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Minnesota author to host opening event for new Barnes & Noble next week originally appeared on Bring Me The News. A new Barnes & Noble is coming to Minnetonka. The new store at West Ridge Market replaces the book retailer's longtime strip mall shop across from Ridgedale Center, which closed last month. It will enter a space formerly occupied by Staples. The 18,000-square-foot store will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. on Aug. 20 with best-selling author William Kent Krueger. Barnes & Noble's new store in Minnetonka.Barnes & Noble Attendees will have the chance to grab the Minnesota-based author's new book, Apostle's Cove, two weeks before its official release during the opening event. The novel is part of Krueger's Cork O'Connor book series, set in northern Minnesota. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am excited to be moving into a brand-new space in West Ridge Market, store manager Rachel Lynch said in a statement. We have been a part of the Minnetonka community since 1991 and look forward to continuing the tradition of helping customers find their favorite books in our new store! The new Minnetonka book shop at 11500 Wayzata Boulevard includes a B&N Cafe. It's one of five locations that the retailer plans to open across the country this month. Related: After hauling tens of thousands of books, Eat My Words opens in its new location This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. At the beginning of the school year in Michigan, students at most public schools can head to their school cafeteria and have lunch for free, part of a program the state started funding in the 2023-24 school year. And in the morning, they're guaranteed breakfast. But by October, that might not be the case, as the Michigan School Meal's program's future could hang in the balance. School leaders and food service directors are waiting for state lawmakers to set a school aid budget. The budget is usually expected to be set in July, when school districts must have their budgets finalized. This year, lawmakers have been at a near-standstill in negotiations, causing a delay. The unsettled state budget is the source of a lot of angst for school administrators this year. But the fate of the meals program in particular is creating anxiety not just for school budget crunchers, but also for parents, who don't know if they'll be on the hook for $3 to $4 school breakfast and lunch costs come October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That adds up and then you start not being able to buy groceries for your house because you want to make sure they have food at school," said Loretta Ferris, a single mother of an 11-year-old in Midland. "If they're going to make it free for some, it should be free for all. ... Not just the poor struggle. ... I work two jobs just to keep afloat." The income at the two jobs Ferris works is too high to make her daughter eligible for free meals through the federal school breakfast and lunch programs, she said. But the free meals under the universal program has been immensely helpful for her budget. Michigan's universal programs provides meals for all students, regardless of family income, by supplementing the federal funding. If that funding goes away, schools would have only the federal program to fund food service programs, which means many students would likely have to pay again. How are school districts responding? Michigan's Department of Education recommended that public schools continue to offer free meals to students in a memo dated Aug. 7. At least, until Sept. 30, which is when the budget year ends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Michigan is a local control state and ultimately, schools make the final call. At least one, Okemos Public Schools outside of Lansing, has told families they'll have to pay come the start of the school year if they're not eligible for the federal meals program, according to a local news reports. Others in communications to families have shared what lunch prices might be if the meal program is discontinued. Online, Midland Public Schools has listed prices for lunch in the event the program is cut: $3.70 for elementary schoolers and $3.95 depending on the meal for middle and high schoolers. Because meals were also made universal during the pandemic, having to pay for school lunch in October may come as a shock for families, said Anna Wamack, associate superintendent with Midland Public Schools. "There's a lot of families who have never had to pay for meals for schools before," she said. "Not having to pay for school meals for their kids to be able to have breakfast and lunch at school was a financial relief for them. We have heard from families that this will be harmful to them for their personal finances." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Utica Community Schools, the second-largest district in the state, has advised parents online that the fate of the meal program is uncertain starting in October, but that parents in the meantime should fill out benefits paperwork that helps makes them eligible for the federal meals program. For the largest district in the state, Detroit Public Schools Community District, little will change. Detroit has long participated in the federal government's community eligibility provision, which qualifies the district for full federal funding for universal meals. Where will lawmakers land? The Michigan Department of Education has praised the effects the of the meals program, sharing data that shows students have had more free meals since lawmakers approved Michigan School Meals. In the 2024-25 budget, the program was funded at $200 million. According to that data snapshot, which examines data from the month of October in different years, the average number of students participating in free lunches daily rose from 758,805 in the 2018-19 school year to 887,430 in the 2024-25 school year. A House Republican budget passed in June would increase per-pupil funding while axing school meal funding, instead leaving it up to individual school districts to spend the money on meal programs or on other needs. State Rep. Ann Bollin, R-Brighton Township, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee, said the plan offers schools more choice about how districts spend money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Maybe in one school district they want to offer free breakfast and not free lunch. ... If they need the money because they want to put more teachers in the classroom, they need new computers or textbooks, they have the flexibility to spend the money on it based on what is needed," Bollin said. State Sen. Dayna Polehanki, D-Livonia, however, rebuked the Republican plan, and blamed the delay of the budget on the other side of the aisle. The uncertainty over the meals program, she said, is particularly difficult for school leaders and families. "This is overwhelmingly popular and it's the right thing to do," she said. "To dangle that over parents' and kids' heads is cruel." For Ferris, the issue comes down to fairness. Before universal meals, it was easy for students to judge their classmates' meals, eyeing who's eating free lunch, who's getting a peanut butter sandwich and the students getting food that's more extravagant. Universal meals leveled the playing field for children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If they're going to make it free for some, it should be free for all," she said. Contact Lily Altavena: laltavena@freepress.com. This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: How MI schools are managing questions over free breakfast and lunch UPDATE: JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) Jackson police announced 10-year-old Gorgeuss McGrew has been located and is safe. According to police, her non-custodial mother, 28-year-old Dessan Riley, is in custody and will be extradited back to Jackson on kidnapping charges. Police said the child was located at Rileys residence in New Orleans. She was unharmed and is in the custody of relatives. JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) A Missing and Endangered notification has been issued for a 10-year-old girl in Jackson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Agents with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) said Gorgeuss McGrew, of Jackson, was last seen on August 14, 2025, around 7:00 a.m. near the intersection of Fredrica Avenue and Saint Charles Street in Hinds County. Mississippi woman arrested for stabbing victim in neck: Deputies According to Jackson police, McGrew was taken from the bus stop in the 200 block of Fredrica Avenue. Witnesses reported that a woman called the child over to her and forced her into a vehicle driven by an unidentified Black male. According to agents, McGrew may be accompanied by her non-custodial mother, 28-year-old Dessan Riley, who is described as 5-foot-7-inches tall, weighs 190 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGrew was last seen wearing a blue shirt with blue pants. Agents said Riley was last seen driving a newer model blue Honda Accord, possibly en route to the New Orleans area. Dessan Riley (Courtesy: MBI) MBI said Gorgeuss McGrew, of Jackson, was last seen on August 14, 2025, around 7:00 a.m. near the intersection of Fredrica Avenue and Saint Charles Street in Hinds County. (Courtesy: Jackson PD) MBI said Gorgeuss McGrew, of Jackson, was last seen on August 14, 2025, around 7:00 a.m. near the intersection of Fredrica Avenue and Saint Charles Street in Hinds County. (Courtesy: Jackson PD) According to Jackson police, Riley has a history of mental illness and drug abuse is not the childs legal guardian. Police said the child has been in custody of her current legal guardian since she was six months old. Anyone with information on their whereabouts can contact the Jackson Police Department (JPD) at 601-960-1234 or 911. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. According to the 2025 WalletHub rankings, Missouri once again finds itself at the very bottom of the national list for public school safety. The Show-Me-State finished dead last, marking the states second consecutive year being highlighted as the worst school safety in the country. For this years data, WalletHub compared all states across two main dimensions of overall quality and safety. The company then used 32 relevant metrics to calculate a comprehensive ranking for each state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the metrics used to determine public school safety included: Bullying incidence rate Youth incarceration rate Prevalence of armed high school students Student access to illegal drugs Number of students not attending school due to safety concerns While Missouri received nearly middle-of-the-road marks in overall school quality (finishing in 33rd), drastic concerns in school safety resulted in Missouri receiving a failing grade. Source: WalletHub WalletHub, in part, contributes to Missouris poor public school rankings due to low spending, as the state falls in the bottom half in spending per student. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. With the 2025-26 school year just around the corner, the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) has published its annual school bus inspections report for 2025 before students go back to school. MSHPs Driver and Vehicle Safety Division inspected 11,255 school buses in Missouri over the 2025 inspection period and published the following results: 10,144 school buses (90.1%) were rated as approved during initial inspections 799 school buses (7.1%) were rated as defective during initial inspections 312 school buses (2.8%) were rated as out of service during initial inspections Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cell phone policy summary for many schools across the Ozarks The biggest school district in southwest Missouri, Springfield R-XII Public Schools, had 97.9% of buses out of 145 inspected for use, with only 2.1% of buses deemed defective. Some school districts in southwest Missouri had 100% of their buses approved, including Nixa, Joplin, Aurora, Strafford, Mt. Vernon, Ash Grove and more. Heres a look at all school districts in MSHP Troop D that had at least 20 buses inspected: School District Buses Approved Defective Out of Service Aurora R-VIII 26 100.0% 0% 0% Bolivar R-I 34 91.2% 8.8% 0% Branson R-IV 65 90.8% 7.7% 1.5% Carl Junction R-1 52 100.0% 0% 0% Carthage R-IX 56 98.2% 1.8% 0% Cassville R-IV 31 96.8% 3.2% 0% Dallas County R-I 32 90.6% 6.3% 3.1% East Newton R-VI 30 93.3% 6.7% 0% El Dorado Springs R-II 27 85.2% 14.8% 0% Forsyth R-III 21 95.2% 4.8% 0% Hollister R-V 30 90.0% 10.0% 0% Joplin Schools 71 100.0% 0.0% 0% Logan-Rogersville R-VIII 29 86.2% 10.3% 3.4% Marshfield R-I 42 88.1% 11.9% 0% Monett R-I 29 86.2% 6.9% 6.9% Neosho R-V 59 96.6% 0% 3.4% Nevada R-V 47 80.9% 17.0% 2.1% Nixa Public Schools 47 100.0% 0% 0% Ozark Area Community Action Co. 20 95.0% 5.0% 0% Ozark R-VI 56 82.1% 14.3% 3.6% Reeds Spring R-IV 34 97.1% 2.9% 0% Republic R-III 63 88.9% 9.5% 1.6% Seneca R-VII 25 76.0% 24.0% 0% Springfield R-XII 145 97.9% 2.1% 0% Stockton R-1 21 81.0% 4.8% 14.3% Strafford R-VI 21 100.0% 0% 0% Webb City R-VII 49 98.0% 2.0% 0% Willard R-II 47 72.3% 19.1% 8.5% For a full list of all school districts in Missouri, 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. Mobile units to monitor air quality around Clairton Coke Works following deadly explosion The Allegheny County Health Department announced that Mobile Air Units will be deployed in the Mon Valley Thursday and Friday as part of an ongoing investigation into the deadly explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works. PHOTOS: Explosion at U.S. Steel Clairton Works Plant Provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and Carnegie Mellon University, the mobile units aim to go beyond normal monitoring. Their assessments will look at pollutants like Volatile Organic Compounds, PM2.5 and sulfur dioxide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The exact locations and times for the units deployment will be based on real-time forecasts developed by ACHD and PADEP staff. RELATED COVERAGE >>> Health department: Air quality meeting standards following Clairton Coke Works explosion I want to thank Governor Shapiro for making the offer of additional mobile air quality monitors in the wake of Mondays explosion, said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. We deeply appreciate the partnersip between PADEP, CMU and our county health departments so we can make the best public health decisions possible, informed by data and science. To learn more about air quality monitoring, visit alleghenycounty.us/airquality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement >>> Expert calls for transparency in deadly explosion investigation and environmental impacts <<< Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW Welcome to Foreign Policys South Asia Brief. The highlights this week: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faces down multiple challenges at once as the United States threatens high tariffs, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is tried in absentia for charges related to last years protest crackdown, and the Taliban mark four years back in power in Kabul. Sign up to receive South Asia Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up to receive South Asia Brief in your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By submitting your email, you agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use and to receive email correspondence from us. You may opt out at any time. Enter your email Sign Up Loading... Signed Up Challenges Converge for Modi Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi currently faces one of the more difficult periods of his 11 years in power. Modi has faced his share of troubles in the past, including Indias catastrophic wave of COVID-19 infections in 2021 as well as mass farmers protests that began in 2020 and caused him to reverse new agricultural laws. But rarely has Modi faced such a quick convergence of challenges as he does now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Modis most immediate concern is responding to U.S. President Donald Trumps high tariffs, which could entail levies as high as 50 percentsignificantly more than those on Indias top export competitors elsewhere in Asia. But the Indian leader must also grapple with the aftermath of the May conflict with Pakistan, which has contributed to a major crisis in U.S.-India relations and bolstered Washingtons ties with Islamabad. Furthermore, the April attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians and triggered the conflict with Pakistan has undercut an important narrative that Modi sought to project: that Kashmir has become more stable and tourist-friendly since New Delhi revoked its special autonomous status in 2019. Meanwhile, on the political front, last week Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi accused the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of colluding with the Election Commission of India in criminal fraud in last years national elections. The commission and BJP leaders have rejected Gandhis claims, but the detailed scope of the allegations has kept them in the headlines in India. The fraud allegations came on the heels of two additional headaches for Modi. First, on July 21, the opening day of Indias monsoon parliament session, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar suddenly resigned. Dhankhar reportedly upset BJP leaders for siding with an opposition motion in the upper house, where he served as chaira rare case of a BJP leader publicly going against the rest of the party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, last month, Mohan Bhagwat, the head of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the powerful Hindu nationalist organization closely linked to the BJP, said that turning 75 means you should stop now and make way for others. Bhagwat may have referred to himself, as he turns 75 next monthbut some observers believe that he was sending a signal to Modi, who also turns 75 in September. The BJP has advised its leaders to leave public office at that age, but there is no formal ruleand Modi certainly hasnt indicated that he plans to do so. More than a year into his third term, Modis political survival isnt at risk. He remains deeply popular in India, and the economy remains strong despite uneven growth. Some of his recent movesstriking Pakistan, refusing to give in to all of Trumps demands during trade talkshave resonated with the Indian public. And Modi has shown a repeated ability to bounce back after decisions that backfire. But recent developments come against the backdrop of a more difficult environment than Modi has gotten used to in the last decade. Because the BJP lost seats in last years election, the prime minister is governing within a coalition for the first time. His partners havent caused him problems, but he still has less political leeway than in the past. Last years election result also made Gandhi a formal opposition leader, giving Modis rivals more influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Furthermore, Trumps return to the White House as a more rigidly transactional figure than he was during his previous term has complicated Indias relations with a critical partnerand its foreign-policy choices more broadly. In the next few years, questions will abound about Modis future when his current term ends in 2029and should he seek a fourth, if he can continue to shake off the anti-incumbency challenge that has done in many Indian politicians in the past. It remains to be seen who will get the last laugh: Modi backers who will look back on recent weeks as one more powerful example of his resilience or Modi critics who will point to this period as an early indication of him losing his shine. What Were Following Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement India-Pakistan fireworks. Indias air force chief, Marshal A.P. Singh, dropped a bombshell while giving a speech in Bengaluru last Saturday: He said that during Indias conflict with Pakistan in May, India shot down five Pakistani jets and one other aircraft, and that it also hit several Pakistani F-16s sitting in airport hangars. The question is why it would take the Indian military three months to make such a major disclosure. Some Indian analysts believe that New Delhi was waiting for the right moment to get back in front of a narrative it has been losing to Islamabad. Pakistan rejected Singhs claims and challenged India to agree to a joint independent verification of each countrys plane inventory. Meanwhile, the Print published leaked comments from Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir at a private event in Tampa, Florida, with members of the Pakistani diaspora over the weekend. Munir reportedly threatened to use nuclear weapons against India if it faced an existential threat in a future conflict and to destroy any dam built by India in violation of the Indus Waters Treaty, which governs how the two countries manage their shared rivers. The inflammatory commentswhich Munir would not have made publiclyare notable for two reasons. First, they signal how concerned Pakistan is about Indias decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty after the Pahalgam attack. Second, Munir appeared to reassert Pakistans posture of not adopting a no first use policy with nuclear weapons. (India does have such a policy.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pakistans government, military, or event attendees have not publicly refuted Munirs reported comments. Sheikh Hasinas trial in Bangladesh. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is being tried in absentia on multiple charges in a court case that began last week in Dhaka. The charges are mainly focused on crimes against humanity, related to Bangladeshi security forces deadly crackdown against protesters last summer, as well as corruption. The trial against Hasina is being held under the auspices of Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunala body set up by the former prime minister herself. Hasina has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh a year ago, and New Delhiwhich views her as a close partnerisnt about to send her back, even though the two countries have an extradition treaty. In that sense, the trial is somewhat symbolicbut depending on the outcome, Hasina could be banned from politics for life. Though her immediate prospects for a comeback are practically nilBangladeshs interim government has cracked down hard on her Awami League party ahead of elections scheduled for Februarydynastic leaders in South Asia are rarely prepared to retire from politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, according to a report in the Times of London, Hasina recently met with party members and other confidants to explore a comebacknews that wont go over well with her many critics in Bangladesh. Taliban mark four years in power. Friday marks four years since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan. Despite its brutality and international sanctions on many of its leaders, the regime has managed to develop workable, albeit unofficial, relations with many South Asian countries, including India, and around the world. Though Russia is the only country to have formally recognized the Taliban regime, some foreign governmentsmost of them in Afghanistans broader neighborhoodhave reopened their embassies in Kabul and permitted Taliban representatives to staff Afghan embassies in their capitals. At home, the Taliban face no imminent threats to their political survival. This has prompted the Taliban to take some bold diplomatic stepsincluding calling on the United States to let Taliban officials take control of the Afghan Embassy in Washington. In a television interview on Sunday, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid cited the direct engagement between U.S. officials and the Taliban and indicated that the regime also seeks official recognition from the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The embassy request is unlikely to be granted, given the sanctions on Taliban leadership and the security risks of having a group with long-standing links to al Qaeda based on U.S. soil. That said, one cant completely rule out Trump exploring the possibilityparticularly if the Taliban signal a willingness to first make concessions. FPs Most Read This Week Why Everyone in Washington Is a Realist Now by Michael Hirsh Meet the New Middle East, Same as the Old Middle East by Stephen M. Walt The Next Israel-Iran War Is Coming by Trita Parsi Under the Radar Air India, the countrys national carrier, announced this week that it will suspend direct flights from New Delhi to Washington, effective Sept. 1. With U.S.-India relations in crisis, some Indian commentators have questioned whether the move is a form of retaliation against the United States for its high tariffs on India. But it appears to be strictly a business decision for the airlineand a reminder that not everything is about geopolitics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Air India explained that the combination of a planned retrofitting of some aircraft, coupled with bans on Indian planes using Pakistani airspace, has made fewer planes available. Passengers will still be able to fly to Washington from India via connections on partner airlines, and direct Air India flights to other U.S. cities will continue. The logic of retaliating against the Trump administration by suspending flights to Washington would make little sense, given that Indian Americans and nonresident Indians rely so heavily on the flight route. They will bear the brunt of the impact, not the U.S. government. Three Moline High School graduates are enrolling at the University of Illinois-Champaign with some help from the Moline Rotary Club. The club gave scholarship assistance to Lucas Eaton, Akhil Kumar, and Vrati Sharma for Service Above Self. They earned $5000, $3000, and $2000. Eaton and Sharma will major in business and Kumar will pursue a degree in computer science. Eaton hopes to use his college education to assist with food insecurity. Kumar organized a tutoring program to help assist students in understanding STEM. Sharma plans to pursue a post graduate degree in law and use the legal profession for helping others. I was raised with the idea that helping others is above everything else, said Sharma. Its a part of my culture.. Its a part of my religion. She added. In addition, Moline High School Students Ricardo Aguilar Jr. and Martina Calderon will be attending Black Hawk College tuition-free through STRIVE scholarships presented by the Moline Rotary Club in partnership with Black Hawk College. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The students participated in Moline High School organizations that promote volunteerism as well as the Interact Club, a youth extension of Rotary. Since 1996 the two Moline Rotary Club member funded scholarship programs have awarded nearly $300,000 in assistance to students. The STRIVE Scholarship provides one year of tuition and books from Moline Rotary and a match from Black Hawk College. Applicants need to maintain a C grade-point average or better and a senior year GPA one point better than in year one. Winners must also maintain 90 percent or better attendance as seniors. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEED TO KNOW Latoysia Denisha Davis was found dead by police responding to reports of aggravated battery Davis, 34, left behind 10 children, the oldest of whom is 19-years-old Davis' sister says their mother's 2003 murder remains unsolved to this day A Florida family is mourning the death of a mom of 10 who was fatally shot over the weekend. Latoysia Denisha Davis, 34, was found slain early in the morning on Saturday, Aug 9, in Orange County, Fla., the Orange County Sheriff's Office confirms to PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police responding to reports of an aggravated battery around 2 a.m. found Davis' body with "obvious signs of trauma," per OCSO. Davis' sister told WESH that she received a call early Saturday morning that something had happened to Davis. "I just didn't know how tragic it was, but once I got here, that hope was kind of lost," Sasha Thompson told the outlet. Davis' other sister Natisha Varela told the outlet their mother was murdered in 2003 a crime that remains unsolved to this day, which Varela worries might happen with the investigation into Davis' shooting. Latoysia Davis/Facebook Latoysia Davis Latoysia Davis Davis was the mother of 10 kids, who range in age from elementary school age to 19 years, WESH reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She is being remembered for her fun-loving energy and kindness. "Loud, party, fun, goofy, mean but sweet," Varela told WESH. "Sour patch? That's a sour patch." On the National Gun Violence Memorial website, which archives a running list of victims of gun violence from across the country, some are remembering Davis as "always smiling" and "life of the party." "My sister was real, loved, respected," Sasha Thompson wrote in a moving tribute on Facebook. "She had a heart of gold, never held grudges, had such a forgiving spirit." 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. No arrests have been made as of Wednesday afternoon, the Orange County Sheriff's Office tells PEOPLE. Read the original article on People ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) On Wednesday, Monroe County legislators got an in-depth look at the agricultural landscape in the Rochester area and all which they provide for surrounding communities. The group of lawmakers toured three farms on the west side including Colby Homestead Farms in Spencerport, Conrow Farms in Brockport and Brightly Farms in Hamlin. The farmers at each shared why they believe the tours were necessary. A lot of these [legislators] havent had any experience with farming and a lot of the policies they pass have direct influence on the farming community, Robert Colby of Colby Homestead Farms said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With this, Executive Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Monroe County Andrea Lista believes lawmakers should understand farming procedures for the sake of the people they serve. She explained how tours like these enable elected officials to answer questions their constituents have. Its important for our lawmakers to be here, see and experience the farm and the different aspects of it, Lista said. Then you can support and also advocate for the community. One example of a bill currently in Senate committee review is S6530, which would prohibit the department of environmental conservation from issuing or authorizing any permits to new or expanding large concentrated animal feeding operations. Executive Director of the Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District Kelly Emerick sees the influence lawmakers have on the lives of farmers in upstate New York and encourages tours like these to encourage informed decisions when policymakers make decisions which could affect the outcome of these bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its important because our lawmakers are the ones making policies when it comes to food production as well as farm labor laws, Emerick said. There are more state Senate bills pertaining to agriculture currently in review which 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 RochesterFirst. MOUNT STERLING, Ky. (FOX 56) A new furry friend is ready to bring smiles to Montgomery County High School as students return to class Thursday. The high school also welcomes a new school counselor. For the first time, Montgomery County High School will welcome a therapy dog into the school. Margo will be assisted by her handler and owner, Rachel Davis, who will join the staff at the high school as one of the newest school counselors. Davis and Margo originally came from Camargo Elementary, where the pup got her name from the students there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, the duo live in Mount Sterling with Daviss family on their farm, where they raise cattle and sheep. Read more of the latest Lexington & central Kentucky news Davis said she is excited for her and Margo to lend a helping hand or paw to the students and staff at the high school. She said she saw a need to bring a therapy dog into the school system when she was a counselor at Camargo Elementary School in 2023, helping bring comfort and relief to students. With Margos presence, Davis said she will be a great addition to the new school year. Therapy dogs offer a lot of different services; they can reduce anxiety, they can open the doors for communication. If a student wants to come and talk, having her there with me, I dont even necessarily have to say anything; just her presence is enough to just calm and bring peace to somebody. Ive seen it firsthand, even with staff members, how much joy she brings just walking down the hallway, Davis said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High school can be a big transition and a scary one for students as they use these next four years to help determine their future. Which is why Margo will be the perfect addition. I feel like having us together as a team really strengthens what we can bring to the table. With my knowledge of social-emotional background, knowing what skills to help kids work through. I can target those areas just by talking and communicating with them, where she can offer that aspect of bringing calm and peace to open that door, Davis said. LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS: Davis has been a counselor for seven years and said shes looking forward to seeing how her students from her elementary school career have grown throughout the years. She knows Margo, and she will fit right in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the things that Id like to bring to the high school is some of the skills that Ive learned from the elementary level, and to see how their development changes. So their social-emotional learning and trauma can grow with them, and I have those skills; I feel like that I can bring with them as they come to high school, said Davis. I know a lot of these families in the community already, so Im able to connect with them on that level. You know, one of the reasons that I went into counseling was to not only help students find their voice but also the career aspect of it. I remember when I was in high school, how I struggled figuring out what I wanted to do once I graduated, and at this point in my life, I want to be a vessel for them to feel confident once they leave high school. Margo wont be the only furry friend here. She is joined by another pup named Connor, who is a therapy dog for the special education students. Davis hopes the district will expand on more therapy dogs throughout other schools. Margo will not only spend time at Montgomery County High School but will also provide comfort and support to students at her original home, Camargo Elementary, a few days a week. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News. MONTPELIER, Vt (ABC22/FOX44) According to data from the Child Mind Institute, one in five kids are diagnosed with Dyslexia a neuro-biological difference in the way someone learns and processes information. In Montpelier, the Kellogg-Hubbard library has committed to removing barriers to literacy for neuro-diverse patrons through their Dyslexic Positive Library initiative. Youth librarian Nicole Westbom says caregivers often come in wanting to help their neuro-divergent kiddos, but are unsure of where to start. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were looking to us as well as their literacy specialist in their school and teachers, she explains. Westbom, along with fellow literary advocates Emily Carley and Susan Whitehead, realized that libraries are uniquely positioned to help with this problem. Theyre natural leaders and allies, Whitehead says. By bringing in practical, evidence-based high quality literacy into libraries from a neuro-diverse and positive lens, we could make a difference. Since March of last year, the three women have been laying the groundwork, which resulted in a Dyslexic positive display with welcoming signage, Dyslexia-friendly reading lists, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People feel that their children and grandchildren are being represented, Westbom says. The model has already gained traction among other Vermont libraries, and it seems like this is just the beginning. The three women are heading to the National Dyslexia Conference in Atlanta this fall. Every individual will have their own natural pace and to affirm that pace is their own in a positive way is very valuable, says Carley. You can learn more about the Dyslexic Positive Library initiative 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 ABC22 & FOX44. Aug. 14The gated area outside the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo was hopping Wednesday with FFA and 4-H competitors rinsing, brushing and trimming all the steers. The decorated stalls inside were mostly empty as steers outside were getting a final blowout and blast of shine spray before showtime in the beef cattle division. On one side of the grassy area, FFA competitor Nicholas Taylor was taking two metal fluffing combs and drawing them together near the base of the tail of his black Angus, Otis. Meeting in the middle, he raised up the combs, leaving a defined razor-edge line of hair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It helps the steer look more filled out and ready for the show," Taylor said, who was competing in senior novice showmanship. Taylor then patted the switch, which has been molded into a stiff teardrop style using a tail adhesive. And reminiscent of a surgeon in an operating room, he'd ask for a different tool as he continued to work, reaching out as friends and family handed him the requested items pulled from a showbox filled with supplies. "I'm looking forward to just, honestly, having fun in the ring with this guy. I'm just excited overall for how he might perform in showmanship, along with his market classes,' Taylor said. "He's just like a big puppy dog." His mother, Mandy, said the livestock projects teach the youths patience, empathy and camaraderie among their peers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By 10 a.m., it's showtime for the first class in senior showmanship. The competitors lined up with their steers as a melodic rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" played over the loudspeaker, accompanied by the robust baritone moos of cows in pens stationed by the bleachers. This is the moment the FFA and 4-H members have waited for to show off the months of hard work raising and working with their steers. With the warm temperatures, many of the steers in all four classes are temperamental. However, judge Karly Hanson was sure to let the young competitors know they were doing a great job of handling the steers and calves. As the four classes made it through the showring, Hanson stopped to ask each competitor questions about their project and the cattle industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the final callbacks in the ring, Hanson took time to carefully observe the competitors as they handled their steer around the ring. Competitors would tap hooves to get steers into a proper stance, scratch the brisket with show sticks and make small loops when needed to help calm the large bovines all while trying not to break eye contact with the judge. Walking up to the announcer's booth, Hanson returned to face the final competitors, holding a box containing the grand champion belt buckle. Holding up a microphone, she commented on the artistry of the group's showmanship and the intensity they showed in the ring. She then announced Ione Plummer as grand champion. Plummer's face lit up and she smiled broadly as the judge handed her the award. The audience applauded. "You want to talk about a young lady that is extremely knowledgeable in this cattle industry. This young lady right here," Hanson said, elaborating on Plummer's responses to her questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hanson also said Plummer did a fantastic job showing her red Angus, Reggie. "And more than that, she's very professional. Very slow and very poised," Hanson said. Next, the judge announced Taylor Ekern's name as the grand reserve champion. The intense gaze Ekern had been holding during the competition broke into a smile. "She walked with purpose in this ring. Very confident. Really nice job displaying her steer at all times," Hanson said. "Maybe [she] wasn't as knowledgeable on some of the questions in comparison to some of the other kids here, but her intensity and her just level of really making sure I am where I am and being mindful of where I am at all times in the ring, I really appreciate." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's a momentous win for both. For Plummer, it was her first grand champion win in beef cattle showmanship. For Ekern, it was her first time showing livestock of any kind. As Plummer guided her steer out of the ring, she was met with hugs and congratulations. She has shown cattle for roughly seven years. Plummer thought it was the questions the judge asked to assess her knowledge that gave her the competitive edge. "I've always done a pretty good job showing. I think what really helped me a lot was this judge asked a lot of questions, and that gave me a chance to really show what I know about my project. And it's just kind of the years of knowledge that just helped me," Plummer said. "I'm just super excited about it," Plummer said. "I'm just so excited." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ekern said she's worked with horses through rodeo and riding, but steer is a "whole different game." "I'd say they're definitely more difficult than horse just because, you know, the heat makes them a lot more stubborn. Especially on a day like today, he's not happy," Ekern said, but noted that's where the training and handling skills come in. To win grand reserve her first year was a great experience. "It's incredible, you know, just because I've put hundreds, if not thousands, of hours into this project since I got him on September 21 last year. I'm just thankful for this opportunity," Ekern said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com. Carly Tranel leads her steer around the ring during the beef cattle showmanship competition Aug. 13 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Emily Tuck answers a question from judge Karly Hanson during the beef cattle showmanship competition Aug. 13 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Ione Plummer earned grand champion in the senior category during the beef cattle showmanship competition Aug. 13 at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coy Brotton shows his steer during the beef cattle showmanship competition Aug. 13 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Taylor Ekern earned reserve champion in the senior category for beef cattle showmanship Aug. 13 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Emily Tuck's steer is examined by the judge during the beef cattle showmanship competition Aug. 13 at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. (Seth Anderson/Hungry Horse News) Authorities have arrested more than 100 people in Washington, D.C. since President Donald Trump took control of the citys police force this week, a White House official tells TIME. Trumps federal intervention in the nations capital represents an unusual assertion of presidential authority under the D.C. Home Rule Act that has long afforded the city a greater degree of self-governance. Sixty-six arrests took place over the first two nights of the operation, and 45 occurred Wednesday night. The White House official says that reasons for the latest arrests include a warrant for first and second degree assault, distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, carrying a concealed weapon, assaulting a federal officer, and undocumented immigrants who had a final order of removal. Of the 45 people who were arrested on Wednesday night, 29 were undocumented immigrants, according to the official, underscoring the operations reach into immigration enforcement, which has alarmed civil rights advocates and residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,650 officers were involved in the operation on Wednesday night, the official says, up from 1,450 officers the previous night. As of Wednesday, around 30 National Guard troops were on the ground in D.C., though the Trump Administration has said up to 800 could be deployed to assist law enforcement officers. As of Wednesday, around 30 National Guard troops were on the ground in D.C., though the Trump Administration has said up to 800 could be deployed to assist law enforcement officers. The official notes that National Guard troops are not currently making arrests themselves. The federal governments aggressive intervention in the nations capital has angered many city residents. Last night, more than 100 people protested a vehicle checkpoint that authorities set up in their neighborhood, shouting phrases at officers such as, Go home, fascists and Get off our streets, according to NBC4 Washington. Read More: Trump Took Over the D.C. Police. He Can't Do It In Other Cities, Legal Experts Say Authorities have shifted to a round-the-clock operation, marking a sharp change in strategy from previous patrols that took place in the evening hours. The official adds that authorities are now doing so-called proactive targeting; rather than broadly patrolling public spaces, authorities are now focusing on known issues, such as warrants. For instance, the official says authorities are targeting wanted gang members, drug dealers, and street corners where authorities believe criminal activity is taking place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The arrests come after Trump on Monday declared a public safety emergency in D.C., citing violent crime. He invoked a rare provision of the D.C. Home Rule Act of 1973, allowing the President to take control of the citys police department for up to 30 days in conditions of an emergency nature. After 30 days, both chambers of Congress have to enact into law a joint resolution to extend the operation. The move sparked backlash from Democrats, many of whom have pointed out that data show that violent crime in the city is down significantly. Violent crime in the nations capital is down by 26% so far in 2025 compared to 2024, according to recent city police data. And in 2024, total violent crime in D.C. dropped to the lowest it has been in over 30 years, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia said in January. When asked about the citys crime statistics on Thursday, Trump told reporters that D.C.s crime data are under investigation right now and accused the city of giving us phony crime stats. Washington, D.C. is at its worst point, and it will soon be at its best point, the President said. Youre going to have a very safe, youre going to have a crime free city. I mean, I say thatvirtually a crime-free city. With reporting by Nik Popli Contact us at letters@time.com. More than 100 employees are slated to lose their jobs in September after a senior living facility announced mass layoffs. Woodstock Christian Life Services reported it would lay off a total of 117 employees as a result of closing its location at 920 and 928 N. Seminary Ave. in Woodstock. The layoff was reported to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity on Aug. 8 as part of the Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. Layoffs will begin Sept. 30, according to state filings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Woodstock Christian Life Services was established in 1903 and provided supportive housing to senior adults. The company joins others across Illinois in announcing layoffs during July and August, including Ryder Integrated Logistics and OSF HealthCare. More Illinois news: Layoffs ahead in August for workers around Illinois A representative from Woodstock told the Journal Star in a phone call the facility had no comment. This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Woodstock, Illinois, senior living company announces layoffs More than 25,000 students are receiving their A-level and AS-level results in Northern Ireland on Thursday. The number of top A-level and AS-level grades awarded are expected to be similar to the years before the coronavirus pandemic. That was the case in 2024, when about 30% of entries received the top A and A* grades, and 2025 is expected to be broadly similar. Students in Northern Ireland will also receive results of some BTec qualifications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The majority of A-level and AS-level qualifications are taken through the Northern Ireland exams board CCEA, though some students will also receive grades from English and Welsh exam boards. Many students can pick up their A and AS-level results online from 08:00 BST, but some will still go to their school to receive their results in person. Harry had already secured a job ahead of results day [BBC] For Harry, a student at Bangor Academy, there were no nerves this morning as he had secured a job in Formula 1 ahead of results day. He said it was a "good day" as he found out he achieved two A's and a C. "In September I'm moving to Milton Keynes to work for the Red Bull Formula 1 team. Back in March I interviewed for an electronics job and I managed to get into the final five out of the select group for interviews. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'll be working on the Formula 1 cars, maybe get to a few races in the next few years," he said. "I studied engineering, IT and applied science so three sort of STEM subjects. I always knew this is the way I wanted to go, so the school really helped me. "Everything I learnt in the classroom I was able to use in my assessments in the interview". Evie was shocked by her BTec results on Thursday morning [BBC] Evie, also a student a Bangor Academy, said she was "shocked" by her results "but for now it's time to fly". She got merits in her BTecs in travel and tourism and business. "I just want to travel the world," she told BBC News NI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I would just love to get into air hostessing," she said, as it will allow her to travel. But Evie said she's going to keep an open mind to all types of jobs in the industry. Max said he "basically collapsed" when he received his results [BBC] Max, another student at Bangor Academy, said he "basically collapsed" when he received a distinction in double award science BTec and a C in music. "Music definitely is my passion, on the sidelines I hope to be in my own band and be big," he told BBC News NI. "Singing was my main instrument, but I also play piano. "I have a lot of emotions , nervous, happy, sad to be leaving Bangor Academy. I would love to come back and teach here." 'Sleepless nights' Bangor Academy Principal, Matthew Pitts, said he had a few "sleepless nights" ahead of results day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You want the best for every student you know, we've worked really hard with them... and they've worked really hard and put the work in and you just want them to be happy and feel good about themselves today," Mr Pitts said. "There's lots of different pathways through so you know even if students aren't happy with what they got they today, there's obviously different options, different pathways, for them. "We encourage them to explore the different things they can do." Deputy vice-chancellor of Ulster University, Prof Paul Seawright, says there are plenty of options available for young people receiving results [BBC] Deputy vice-chancellor of Ulster University, Prof Paul Seawright, told BBC Radio Foyle's North West Today programme that for anyone hoping to go to university but received grades they were not expecting, there are plenty of options available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Some students may not get the grades they were hoping for, and I know that can be disappointing," Prof Seawright said. "Slow down don't panic clearing is open, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore." He urged students not to "react in a knee-jerk way" if their results are unexpected. "You may have planned to study one subject, but you could still pursue something very similar perhaps at a different campus, or as part of a joint course with another subject." For those who have achieved their required grades and plan to go to university, Prof Seawright emphasised the importance of acting quickly to secure their place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "As soon as you get your results, log in to your UCAS portal or check your emails to confirm your place and arrange your accommodation. "Get the ball rolling before you start celebrating." What options are there if you didn't get the results you expected? In Northern Ireland in 2025, the most popular A-level subject was maths and other popular subjects included biology, geography, and health and social care. Students will use their AS, A-level and BTec results to apply to university or Further Education (FE) colleges, begin an apprenticeship or seek work. According to the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), there has been a rise in the number of young people in Northern Ireland who have applied to go to university in 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UCAS said that just under 17,500 18-year-olds in Northern Ireland had applied to go to university in the UK by the 30 June 2025, an increase of 1.5% on 2024. CCEA will operate a results helpline from Thursday until Wednesday, 27 August on 028 9026 1260. The Department for the Economy's careers service is also operating an online advice service or by telephoning 0300 200 7820. Pupils will receive GCSE results on Thursday 21 August. Flash floods have killed 46 people in a village hosting Hindu pilgrims in Indian-administered Kashmir. The flooding took place in the remote village of Chositi in Kishtwar district, which is on a busy pilgrimage route to a famous shrine in the Himalayas. Videos shared online showed dramatic flood waters, vehicles being washed away and rescuers searching for survivors in damaged homes, as people cried in the streets - some caked in mud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dozens of pilgrims have been evacuated to safety, but at least 50 people are feared missing, and a rescue operation is still under way. The floods were triggered by a cloudburst, officials said, with Federal Minister Jitendra Singh, who is also an MP from Jammu and Kashmir, saying it was on a "massive scale" and rescue teams were finding it difficult to reach the site. A road had been washed away, he said, and the weather was not safe enough for helicopters. He expects the incident to result in a substantial number of casualties. A resident of nearby Atholi village told news agency AFP he saw "at least 15 dead bodies" being brought into the local hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A large community kitchen where visiting pilgrims were eating lunch was completely washed away, an official told Reuters news agency. The region's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation as a "tragedy", announcing he was cancelling some of the cultural activities planned for Friday's Indian Independence Day celebrations. The news was "grim", he said, with accurate, verified information from the area "slow in arriving", but all available resources were being mobilised to manage the rescue operations. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "every possible assistance" would be available to those who need it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement India's northern region has seen very heavy rainfall in recent days, triggering flash floods in several areas. Last week, nearly half of the village of Dharali, in Uttarakhand state, was submerged after it was hit by a massive flash flood. On Tuesday, officials said that 66 people were still missing and only one body had been recovered. There were 10,000 instances of book bans at public schools in the 2023-24 school year, according to PEN America. In 2024, 5,813 titles were challenged in public libraries and schools nationwide, says the American Library Assn. "So many books for young people are being taken off the shelf," said Fritzi Bodenheimer, spokesperson for the Brooklyn Public Library in New York. "If you're a young person, you know, you're 14 or 15 years old and you're just discovering yourself and maybe you think that you might be a member of the LGBTQ community and all those books are taken off the shelf. What message does that send to you? That you're a bad person? That you're dangerous?" To combat book censorship, some Southern California public libraries, including Los Angeles, Long Beach and San Diego, are joining libraries nationwide to provide access to online library cards. Children as young as 13 can get a free e-card to access the libraries' catalog of e-books and audiobooks, without parental permission and without any challenges they may face to get a book in their local library. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Long Beach is the latest public library to join this effort, a project known as Books Unbanned that was started by the Brooklyn Public Library. The project's website calls it a response to "support the freedom to read." Public schools and libraries in Texas, Tennessee and Florida faced the most challenges to book titles in 2024. In the American Library Assn.'s Top 10 Most Challenged Books report from that year, all titles mentioned were challenged for sexually explicit material; some were also cited for featuring LGBTQ+ content, depictions of drug use and sexual assault, and profanity. Some parents filing complaints believe early access to content featuring these topics can confuse children, and they believe they should have more of a say in what their children read. According to a national library survey conducted in 2023, 60% of respondents said that certain books should require either an age limit or parental permission to check out, while 57% of respondents believed parents should be notified when their child checks out a book. Also, 76% of respondents said that parents should be the ones to decide whether their children can check out books that focus on sexual education and racism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What begins as parental complaints at a local library can turn into major political movements. Organizations such as Moms for Liberty, Moms for America and Parents Defending Education Action have become the driving force behind a fight for more conservative curriculum and book selections at public schools and libraries in the United States. In 2022, the Southern Poverty Law Center considered these groups to be extremist, "constantly painting themselves as an oppressed class, while vilifying those discriminated against," it said. Bodenheimer told The Times she had witnessed the rise of aggressive legislation threatening to limit hundreds of titles in book collections including those that represent marginalized communities. Since Books Unbanned launched in 2022, nearly 10,000 people from all 50 states have applied for the e-card, she said. "The more places that young people can access a book," Bodenheimer said, "the harder it becomes to ban it." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project has become a conglomerate of partnerships among libraries across the nation, including Boston and Seattle, granting young readers access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks, regardless of any regional, federal, accessibility or monetary challenges they may face in pursuit of a book. Just three titles in 17 years have been challenged at the Long Beach Public Library. But in 2024, 5,813 titles were challenged in public libraries and schools nationwide, according to the American Library Assn. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times) Cathy De Leon, the director of the department of library, arts and culture at Long Beach Public Library, said plans to join Books Unbanned began around late 2024. The Long Beach Public Library Foundation, a nonprofit charity that supports the library financially, began communicating with the Brooklyn Public Library about the project and found the partnership to be a "really good fit, and something we really believed in," she said. The Long Beach City Council approved the partnership on July 22. Long Beach hasn't had many threats of book censorship, something De Leon attributes to unwavering commitment among the city's books community. Friends of the Long Beach Public Library, another nonprofit organization that provides support to the regional library, was created to ward off book censorship threats in 1963. The City Council, the foundation and the Friends of the Long Beach Public Library all support free book access, which aligned with Books Unbanned, she said. Only three book titles have been challenged in the Long Beach Public Library system in the last 17 years, according to the Long Beach Post, and all remain available to check out in the library system. "Fallen Angels" by Walter Dean Myers, challenged in Long Beach in 2008, was placed on the American Library Assn.'s Top 100 Most Frequently Challenged Books report, which noted it was challenged for offensive language, racism and violence. "A Queer and Pleasant Danger," a memoir by transgender playwright Kate Bornstein, was challenged in 2013. In 2016, "The De-Textbook: The Stuff You Didn't Know About the Stuff You Thought You Knew," by the humor website Cracked, was challenged for concerns over explicit content and strong language. Long Beach is the latest public library to join the Books Unbanned effort, which was started by the Brooklyn Public Library. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times) At most partnering libraries, the free e-card is available to readers ages 13 to 26. The Brooklyn Public Library cuts off applications at 21. Bodenheimer believed young audiences to be the most vulnerable to book censorship, and most book titles being challenged are ones intended for young adults. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Long Beach Public Library system uses Libby, an audiobook and e-book service, for its online selection of books. De Leon said that the library was buying more e-books and audiobooks to accommodate users nationwide, and the foundation has started a campaign with a $100,000 goal to help fund these purchases. Bodenheimer said that some people choose to apply for reasons that might not seem obvious. She said some users live in rural communities with no easy commute to their local library. Some can't afford to pay off old library fines. Some children may want to avoid taking a physical book home to a disapproving household. "We're delighted to provide that access," she said. "But we're also really sad that we need to. ... How we feel is always bittersweet." Kesha Jenkins looks over book titles with her mother, Wanda Jenkins, at the Billie Jean King Main Library in Long Beach. (Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times) In a 2024 report, Books Unbanned asked users why they felt they needed the e-library card. Some said that it had restored their love of reading, increased privacy in their reading choices and helped improve their learning. Many said that it gave them access to books previously unavailable to them because of restrictions, inaccessibility or unaffordability, among other reasons. But a majority said that the e-card simply gave them access to a bigger and more diverse selection of books. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "That's really what the library is about," De Leon said. "The freedom to read. ... We respect that everybody's different and everyone's got different needs. And it's not our business to tell you what to do with those books." De Leon said Long Beach hoped to make e-cards available in October, in time for the American Library Assn.'s Banned Books Week, which runs from Oct. 5 to 11 this year. Interested readers can apply for an e-library card through any of the partnering libraries at the Books Unbanned website. 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. Jeffrey Epsteins mysterious death occurred six years ago this month but the National Enquirer has discovered 22 people in the sketchy billionaires orbit have also died under murky circumstances, fueling fears of a cover-up by powerful figures seeking to erase potential witnesses. From the predators alleged victims to house managers, lawyers, accountants, investigative journalists and pimps, the list of unexplained fatalities traces a dark money trail that leads straight to Epsteins inner circle, sources say. There were a lot of people entrapped and entangled through Epsteins web, and many of those people are gone now dead, private investigator Ed Opperman tells the Enquirer. They are all connected through a money trail. Steven Hoffenberg. Financier Steven Hoffenberg confessed in a final account before his death to the Enquirers Doug Montero that Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, the convicted pedophiles now-imprisoned recruiting madam, were taping honey-trap videos of sleazy VIPs with underage girls for a cabal of deep-state blackmailing power brokers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This puts a lot of high-powered people in very dangerous situations, says the gumshoe and podcaster, who was once approached to dig up dirt on an Epstein victim and Hoffenberg. Hoffenberg, the former Towers Financial CEO and Epstein associate who died in 2022 at 77 after serving 18 years for a $475 million Ponzi scheme cooperated with the FBI and spoke out about his former proteges alleged connections to Israels national intelligence agency Mossad. While Maxwell, 63, is serving 20 years for sex trafficking, Epstein himself became part of the growing body count in August 2019 when he was found hanged inside his New York City jail cell at 66 in what officials deemed a suicide but his brother, Mark, calls murder. Epsteins final cellmate, Efrain Stone Reyes, 51, died of COVID in November 2020 just weeks after talking with federal investigators probing the monstrous moneymans death. Reyes was transferred out of Epsteins cell just one day before the bigwigs death, per Daily Mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three of Epsteins outspoken accusers also suspiciously perished. Virginia Giuffre, 41, was found dead on April 25 in an apparent suicide, while sex slaves Carolyn Andriano, 36, and Leigh Skye Patrick, 29, died of drug overdoses in May 2023 and May 2017. The three women are not the only dead bodies related to Epsteins days in West Palm Beach, Fla., where he was accused of abusing and pimping out dozens of young girls. Despite overwhelming evidence of his purported obscene operation, Epstein received a sweetheart deal orchestrated by the feds in 2008 and was allowed to plead guilty to two state prostitution charges and served only 13 months in a cushy county jail work-release program. Joe Recarey, the Palm Beach Police detective who led the Epstein investigation and pushed officials for justice, died May 25, 2018, after a brief illness at 50. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epsteins ex-butler Alfredo Rodriguez who swiped his former boss infamous little black book and offered to sell it to an undercover FBI agent died in December 2014 of mesothelioma at 60, after serving 13 months in federal prison on obstruction charges, per The Independent. Two high-powered attorneys who helped Epstein skate in the West Palm Beach case have also passed away: Kenneth Starr in September 2022 at 76 after surgical complications and Roy Black, 80, who died last month at home, per The Texas Tribune. Marvin Minsky, the MIT artificial intelligence pioneer named in Giuffres Epstein allegations, suffered a fatal cerebral hemorrhage in January 2016 at 88, while Ronald R. Eppinger Sr., a Miami pimp who was allegedly the first to traffic Giuffre, died at 80 in November 2006. Advertisement Two investigative journalists chasing the Epstein scandal have also met their end. Former NYPD detective and Epstein book author John Connolly passed away in January 2022 at 78, per New York Post. Celebrity biographer Wendy Leighs body was found beneath her London balcony in May 2016. Her death remains questioned as initial reports suggested suicide, but her agent emphasized the 65-year-olds optimistic view on life, per a report published by People. Six other Epstein associates have also died over the years, per Daily Mail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jean-Luc Brunel, 75, a French modeling agency boss awaiting trial for allegedly trafficking girls to Epstein, was found hanged inside a Paris prison cell in February 2022. Movie producer Steve Bing, 55, plunged from the 27th floor of his L.A. apartment building in June 2020 after talking to the FBI about Epstein. Mark Middleton, 59, an advisor to former President Bill Clinton with ties to Epstein, was found hanged and shot in Arkansas in May 2022 in what was ruled a suicide. Thomas Bowers, 55, a head of the Deutsche Bank wealth management division that moved money for Epstein, was also found hanged inside his California home in November 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein pal and former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson died in his sleep in September 2023 at 75, and physicist Stephen Hawking, who is known to have visited Epsteins island, passed away in his U.K. home in March 2018 at 76, per CNN. The Enquirer can also reveal unusual deaths followed Epstein even before he became a household name. The death toll began 40 years ago, when the since-disgraced mogul began working as a trusted financial advisor for tycoon Les Wexner, the L Brands founder and former owner of lingerie company Victorias Secret and fashion retailer Abercrombie & Fitch. Epsteins predecessor at L Brands, 43-year-old lawyer Arthur Shapiro, was gunned down in March 1985 just weeks before he was expected to be questioned by the IRS about illegal tax shelters, per The Daily Beast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after Shapiros death, Epstein took over managing Wexners finances. FBI documents mention Shapiros unsolved murder and the sex peddlers possible link to prime suspect Berry L. Kessler. Kessler died at age 84 in 2005 inside a Georgia federal prison after being convicted a decade earlier of masterminding two separate murder-for-hire plots unrelated to Shapiro. Now, Ghislaine Maxwell the only known living Epstein accomplice currently behind bars was mysteriously transferred from a Florida penitentiary to a minimum-security facility in Texas that has no surveillance cameras or recordings. Maxwells brother Ian exclusively tells the Enquirer that his sister is not suicidal, and experts believe the deep-state cabal wants to make sure the last remaining witness is silenced. An insider warns, Shes got a bulls-eye on her back! HARTSELLE, Ala. (WHNT) The fundraiser is said to bring together the whole family for two nights of a rootin tootin time. The Morgan County Sheriffs Posse is set to host Bulls and Barrels, an event the Posse says aims to raise money to support the sheriffs office and other programs in the community. The event will be held on August 15 & 16, with gates opening at 6 p.m. and the show starting at 7 p.m. both nights. (Photo: Morgan County Sheriffs Office) Held at the Morgan County Sheriffs Mounted Posse Grounds in Hartselle, the Posse said there will be lots of different vendors on display, concessions available and there will also be free parking! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Below is a list of ticket prices for the event: Adults: $15 Ages 7-17: $10 Under 7: Free Veterans: $10 First responders: Free Bring your hat, your boots, your wild side and maybe a lawn chair for Granny. This is where stories get made and legends get broken! the Morgan County Sheriffs Office wrote. According to MCSOs website, the Posse was officially formed by then-Sheriff Knox McRae in 1963, and is incorporated as a 501c3 non-profit. The Posse supports the Sheriffs Office in a variety of ways and works year-round to raise funds to support many programs. The Posses Mounted members are qualified to participate in parades; festivals or work as requested by the Sheriff in search and rescue operations. Equestrian classes and ride nights are held at the facilitys arena monthly, MCSOs website says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Posse said its purpose is to provide mounted and non-mounted ground assistance when activated by the sheriffs office. Beyond law enforcement support, we are committed to serving the residents of Morgan County, Alabama, providing charitable aid during times of need or crisis. Our mission is to help alleviate some of the burdens on the Sheriffs Office while fostering a spirit of community service, the Posse said. You can learn more about the Posse and the event on Facebook 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 WHNT.com. Aug. 13MORGANTOWN In an odd bit of sequencing, Morgantown City Council voted 6-0 Tuesday to add its voice to those opposing the MidAtlantic Resiliency Link power transmission project. Even so, members of the body said they would like to hear from representatives on both sides of the issue including project developer NextEra to help raise awareness of the project. Whether NextEra will be willing to make that commitment remains to be seen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MidAtlantic Resiliency Link, or MARL, is a 105-mile 500-kV transmission line that is looking at Monongalia, and surrounding counties, as potential routes from Greene County, Pa., to Frederick County, Va. The city's resolution came about two weeks after the Monongalia County Commission joined Preston, Hampshire, Jefferson and Mineral counties in publicly opposing transmission projects that will to paraphrase the county's resolution use West Virginia's landscape as flyover country and return little to no real benefit to West Virginia or its residents. Monongalia County resident Judy Delagarza said the project is particularly galling in that Virginia's power generation facilities are being scaled down in favor of clean energy. Instead, West Virginia farms and forested land will be cleared to make way for a 100-mile extension cord connecting fossil fuels to power hungry data centers in northern Virginia. A data center is a physical room, building or facility that houses IT infrastructure for building, running and delivering online applications and services. The facilities are the backbone of our always-online existence and have power requirements on par with entire metropolitan areas in some instances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Northern Virginia is the data center hub of the East Coast. As of 2023, data centers accounted for more than one quarter of the state's electricity consumption according to the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. As Virginia's data centers require more power, the Virginia Clean Economy Act signed into law in 2020 requires the state to move to 100 % carbon-free energy production within 50 years. "Virginia has passed ordinances and laws, whatever, for their clean energy, so they don't have enough energy. In addition, they're allowing all these data centers to be built in northern Virginia. That is the reason we need more energy, " Delagarza said. "West Virginia is being asked to bear the burden of Virginia's mistakes." Morgantown is not in any of the proposed transmission routes proposed by NextEra. Deputy Mayor Brian Butcher, who initiated the city resolution, explained Tuesday's vote was one of solidarity with the county and region. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The resolution says the major transmission lines would negatively impact the county's property values, agriculture, tourism and natural beauty while providing a marginal increase in tax revenue ultimately offset by utility rate increases implemented to subsidize the project's construction. Butcher was among the councilors who said they would like to hear from NextEra and others both for and against in an effort to raise awareness about the project. "It's an important issue and it's obviously going to affect our constituents, " Councilor Mark Downs said. "The state's beauty is one of our greatest assets. How many times have you met someone who's been in town because they've been hiking at Cooper's Rock or using the rail-trail or any of our amenities that are outside city limits, but they're staying at the Hotel Morgan, or they're staying at the Marriott ? It impacts us." Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the West Virginia Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council has awarded $3.4 million in funds for five water and sewer projects in Kanawha, Marion, and Richie counties on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Fairmont, West Virginia. (West Virginia Office of Gov. Patrick Morrisey | Courtesy photo) West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced millions of dollars in water and sewer project investments across the state on Thursday. The money being disbursed totals about $14 million and is split between grants ($4.96 million) and a low-interest loan of $9.2 million. Combined, the money will go to projects in six different communities in four different counties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A majority of the grant funds all but $1.34 million comes from the state Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council, which is a clearing house for infrastructure projects in the state. The remaining grant funds will be disbursed by the state Department of Environmental Protections Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. Water and sewage projects in West Virginia tend to be high-cost, but also highly necessary. Water infrastructure is rapidly aging across the state and dilapidated service structures often lead numerous communities to going without adequate drinking water service. Other areas of the state are still not connected to centralized water and sewage systems, relying instead on private wells or outdated septic systems that can illegally drain sewage directly into drinking water sources. According to the IJDCs 2023 Needs Assessment, the state needs to spend at least $13.9 billion to both expand water and sewage services to every existing structure and maintain the services lines that already exist. Per the report, however, the future needs may be understated by as much as $4 billion, raising the total monetary need to nearly $18 billion. On Thursday, Morrisey said the water infrastructure investments were crucial to help the state compete economically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You cant talk about growing your economy if you dont have basic infrastructure in place. Were certainly working to make that happen, Morrisey said. These are the basics, and Im excited that were focusing on the basics. Thats how West Virginia is going to soar. Projects announced Thursday are as follows: Kanawha County Communities throughout Kanawha County will receive a total of $1.9 million in grants and $9.2 million from a singular loan to the Kanawha County Regional Development Authority. Per a release from the governor, $1 million in IJDC grant funds will be awarded to the authority in addition to the $9.2 million loan to extend centralized water service to 110 new customers in Olcott. Work has been ongoing to connect Olcott residents to centralized water service for several years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The total project cost for the Olcott area is about $11.4 million. With the newly announced funds which will come in addition to funds from the Kanawha County Commission, the Kanawha County RDA and a private utility partner the total project costs have been covered. Its likely that the private utility partner for the Olcott project is West Virginia American Water, as the water company has been in talks since at least 2021 to provide service for the area and is the only private water utility operating in Kanawha County. Its unclear if the money given for the project will cover the tap fee for residents to connect to the centralized service, which can cost around $300 per a household. In Marmet, $400,000 in IJDC grant funds will go toward repairing a stream embankment failure at the Marmet Wastewater Treatment Plant. The total project cost is $440,000 which, along with funds from the Marmet Sanitary Board, has now been completely raised. And lastly, the Elk Valley Public Service District will receive a $500,000 in IJDC grant funds to modify chlorine tanks at the sewage system. The upgrade will allow the utility to use alternative means of disinfection within the system. Per the release, the project will largely affect 4,500 customers in the Elkview area. The total project cost is about $1.16 million, which has now been met. Harrison County The town of Anmoore, in Harrison County, will receive $1.34 million in grants from the WVDEPs Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for various projects. Those include replacing failing lines, installing 24 new fire hydrants and upgrading meters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The total project cost is $3.56 million and will affect service for about 475 people, per the release. Marion County The Greater Paw Paw Public Service District will receive $500,000 in IJDC grant funds to repair seven pump stations in its sewage system. The project will largely affect about 157 customers in the Baxter area. The total project cost is $1 million, which has now been raised. Ritchie County The town of Cairo will receive $1 million in IJDC grant funds to replace a river-crossing water line and perform other system improvements. The total project cost is $4.2 million and will affect 157 customers throughout the municipalitys service area. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE "The head of the Mossad even made it clear in the meeting that a partial deal had been dropped," the source said. Mossad chief David Barnea traveled to Doha, Qatar, to meet with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani for matters "not regarding negotiations for a hostage deal," a senior security source stated on Thursday. "The head of the Mossad even made it clear in the meeting that a partial deal had been dropped," the source said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This comes after Hamas gave a green light to the possibility of resuming negotiations. Senior Hamas official, Taher al-Nunu, noted that talks 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. In the same line, a Hamas leadership delegation, headed by Khalil al-Hayya, arrived in Cairo on Wednesday to hold talks with senior Egyptian officials. Palestinian Hamas terrorists parade as they prepare to hand over hostages kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, to the Red Cross as part of a ceasefire and a hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel, in Gaza City, January 19, 2025. (credit: Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters) 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. Negotiations stalled and low optimism from the mediators 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. In recent days, Qatar and Egypt have been working on a framework for a deal that would include the release of all hostages and an end to the war. The issue of hostage deal negotiations was discussed extensively during a meeting between Mossad director David Barnea and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday, an Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post. This follows a briefing earlier on Thursday, during which a senior Israeli official told reporters that The Mossad chief conveyed the message that a partial deal is off the table and, beyond that, did not engage in negotiations but in Mossad-related matters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent days, Qatar and Egypt have been working on a framework for a deal that would include the release of all hostages and an end to the war. However, there is still the possibility of a partial agreement involving the release of 10 hostages in exchange for a two-month ceasefire. Also present in Doha at the same time as Mossad chief Barnea was Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The Al-Hadath channel reported that the Turkish foreign minister was participating in talks with the Mossad chief in Doha. Several senior Hamas officials are currently based in Turkey. Meanwhile, in Egypt, talks continued on Thursday between senior Hamas figures and top Egyptian officials. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv to protest Israels plan to expand the war and fully take over Gaza on August 6, 2025. (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI) Five principles to end the war On Thursday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement outlining Israels principles for ending the war: dismantling Hamass military capabilities; returning all hostages, both living and deceased; demilitarizing the Gaza Strip; not only disarming Hamas but also ensuring that no weapons are manufactured in or smuggled into the territory; maintaining Israeli security control in Gaza, including the security perimeter; and establishing an alternative civilian administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These must be people who will not indoctrinate their children with terror, will not fund terror, and will not send terrorists, Netanyahu said. These five principles will ensure Israels security. That is the meaning of the word victory. This is what we are working toward and everyone should internalize it. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who in recent days has been urging Netanyahu to commit to continuing the campaign even if a partial deal is reached, responded: Mr. Prime Minister, these are correct and just principles. But you are missing one important perhaps the most important point: No pauses until victory! At the same time, initial talks have begun regarding the possibility of a visit to Israel next month by US President Donald Trump. A source familiar with the matter told the Post that, at this stage, there were speculations and preliminary probes for such a visit, potentially in mid-September, before Trumps planned state visit to the United Kingdom. Its not certain the visit will happen, and everything is in a very initial stage, the source added. As California lawmakers prepare to release draft congressional maps that would give Democrats an advantage in the 2026 midterm elections, a new poll finds that most residents oppose giving politicians the power to redraw district boundaries. The Politico/Citrin Center survey of 1,445 registered voters found 64% support keeping the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, which voters created through 2008 and 2010 ballot measures to curb political influence in the process. Thirty-six percent favored shifting that responsibility back to the Legislature. The poll, conducted July 28 to Aug. 12, found support for the commission consistent across age groups, ranging from 62% among Gen Z and millennials to 77% among members of the Silent Generation. College-educated voters were more likely than those without a degree to back the panel, 69% to 61%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study also showed that 72% of Democrats, 66% of Republicans and 61% of independents said they want to keep the commission. A separate survey of 512 California policy influencers, including lawmakers, staffers and advocates, showed 61% preferring the commission and 39% backing legislative control. Under state law, the commission redraws congressional and legislative boundaries every 10 years using U.S. Census data. Lawmakers proposal would temporarily shift that authority to the Legislature for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 elections, but only if Texas or another state redraws its maps during the decade. Authority would revert to the commission after 2030. Opponents, including the League of Women Voters, former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Republican state lawmakers, have called the plan a form of gerrymandering. Philanthropist Charles Munger Jr. and the Protect Voters First campaign have launched a website opposing the effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom is in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday promoting his redistricting proposal. The push comes as Texas Republicans advance their own redistricting plans favoring the GOP. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Aug. 14WILKES-BARRE While formal charges against alleged Luzerne County election board meeting disruptor Joseph Granteed have yet to be filed in Luzerne County Court, his attorney is taking an aggressive offensive attack. Attorney Matthew T. Muckler filed a motion this week to dismiss the entire case against Granteed, 68, of Plains Township, advocating that there is clearly a lack of evidence to proceed. Granteed was charged by the Luzerne County sheriff's office with disrupting the March 19 election board meeting by speaking 10 to 15 seconds longer than the allotted three minutes given to the public to speak, and allegedly shoved a sheriff deputy who ordered him to leave the meeting room. There were no reported injuries by the alleged shove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A video of the meeting showed that after Granteed took his seat, he made a comment to election board member Rick Morelli, who was directing comments at Granteed. Granteed was initially charged with simple assault, disrupt meeting, harassment, disorderly conduct, which were dismissed by District Judge Donald Whittaker after a preliminary hearing held April 16. On the same day the charges were dismissed, the sheriff's office refiled the case against Granteed, which set up a second preliminary hearing and included Assistant District Attorney Allyson L. Kacmarski. Prior to the second preliminary hearing held July 9, Kacmarski added a felony aggravated assault charge over Muckler's objection. Whittaker agreed to Kacmarski's request to add the felony assault charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the proceeding, Whittaker determined Kacmarski established a case against Granteed, sending all the charges including the felony aggravated assault offense to county court. More than a month has elapsed, and prosecutors have yet to file a formal case, called a criminal information, against Granteed in the Court of Common Pleas. Despite the yet-to-be-filed criminal information, Muckler is seeking to have the entire case dismissed against Granteed. Judge David W. Lupas scheduled a hearing on Muckler's request on Sept. 9. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) A motorcyclist has died following a crash on I-91 north in Longmeadow on Tuesday night. Longmeadow librarian arrested for child abuse material distribution The Hampden District Attorneys Office states that on Tuesday at 8:47 p.m., officers were sent to a crash involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck on I-91 north at the .8-mile marker in Longmeadow. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2023 Ford Maverick pickup truck headed southbound in a construction-related traffic lane used an emergency turnaround to make a U-turn into the northbound lane. Multiple witnesses confirmed that the pickup did make a U-turn in the emergency turnaround. The truck had two people inside and was struck by a motorcycle going northbound that was unable to avoid the crash. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Hampden District Attorneys Office State Police Detective Unit trooper attempted life-saving measures, including CPR, on the motorcyclist, but died due to their injuries. While emergency turnaround spots like the one on I-91 look like a good spot to make a U-turn, theyre not. They put you and other drivers on the road at risk. Mark Schieldrop with AAA Northeast told 22News, The reality is that these U-turns dont have the best viability or viewing angles, and its difficult to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles as theyre approaching. Schieldrop says he advises anxious drivers to avoid left turns completely. Between 2016 and 2020, 39.2% of total fatalities involving two passenger vehicles were from U-turns and left turns. So if you miss your exit, dont make an illegal U-turn an option. Its a real tragedy. Unfortunately, these kinds of things happen on the road when people decide to do something that may not necessarily be legal. The Massachusetts State Police told 22News that the motorcyclists name is 38-year-old Edison Lajara Hernandez of Holyoke. Both people inside the pickup truck were taken to Baystate Medical Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you need to turn around, slow down, take the next exit, or make the loop. Generally, youre going to lose a few minutes, but at the end of the day, getting somewhere safely is worth that extra time. The crash is being investigated by the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Hampden District Attorneys Office, as well as the DAs Motor Vehicle Homicide Unit. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. LONGMEADOW A motorcyclist died in Longmeadow on Tuesday after colliding with a pickup truck exiting an emergency turnaround Interstate 91 North. Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni expressed his condolences to the victims family Thursday. The victim hasnt been identified. Preliminary findings suggest the pickup truck, a 2023 Ford Maverick, was traveling south through construction traffic when its driver crossed into the northbound side using the emergency turnaround, Gulluni said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple witnesses confirmed that the pickup truck made the maneuver, Gulluni said. The motorcyclist died at the scene, despite life-saving efforts by a detective with the Massachusetts State Police who happened to be near the collision site. Additional state police troopers and emergency crews, including members of the Longmeadow Fire Department, responded to the crash. The two people in the pickup truck were taken to Baystate Medical Center for treatment. The crash remains under investigation. Read the original article on MassLive. PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) A team of mountaineers set off on foot Thursday to recover the body of a Chinese climber from the worlds second-highest peak after bad weather grounded helicopter flights, a Pakistani official said. Guan Jing was struck by falling rocks on Tuesday while descending K2, a day after reaching its summit with a group in Pakistans Gilgit-Baltistan region. She died on the mountain, known for its treacherous slopes, frequent rockfalls, and extreme weather conditions, according to Faizullah Faraq, a local government spokesperson. He said her body lies between 100 and 150 meters (328 to 492 feet) above the advanced base camp at about 5,400 meters (17,716 feet) and has not yet been retrieved. K2 rises 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) above sea level and is widely regarded as one of the most difficult and dangerous peaks to climb, with a far higher fatality rate than Mount Everest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The weather is currently not suitable for a helicopter flight, which is why the body has not yet been brought down from the mountain, he said. Faraq said Jing was part of an expedition organized by a Nepali company. He said a Nepali Sherpa, Jangbu, was sent on Wednesday to recover her body but was injured on the way and stranded. The Nepali was later rescued by helicopter and transferred to Skardu Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. Deadly incidents are common on K2, where steep gradients, thin air and sudden storms can turn even routine descents into life-threatening ordeals. The latest death comes two weeks after German mountaineer and Olympic gold medalist, Laura Dahlmeier, died while attempting another peak in the region. Efforts to retrieve her body were abandoned when Dahlmeiers family informed authorities that she had stated that no one should risk their life to recover her body if she dies in any accident. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) More than 700 freshmen moved into Savannah State Wednesday. They will be part of the 3,000-plus students who will call Savannah State home for the upcoming school year. Graduating senior Krystaline Jefferson said she knows how overwhelming move-in day can be and greeted new students warmly, saying, To welcome them with open arms. How I was. Its been amazing. Newly appointed president Jermaine Whirl said hes excited to get involved and make his mark during his first academic year. Weve got some big capital projects were working on. Weve got some fundraising activities that we have going on. So its a lot happening, but the core of that is really serving our students. And so, just being present and spending the time is what Im going to do this academic year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Faculty and staff said its really important for students to get involved in campus activities, organizations and different groups in order to have a successful year. First-generation college student Kyla Long told WSAV News 3 she plans on doing just that. I am kind of nervous but I know Ill do fine. I really just want to make a name for myself, you know? Do what I came here for. So, you know, just make my mom proud. The University has an entire welcome week planned for students to foster the environment of a home away from home. Upperclassmen move in Thursday and the new school year officially starts on Aug. 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV. Movies to see this week: 'The Room,' 'Shin Godzilla,' '13 Assassins' originally appeared on Bring Me The News. Lots of special events are joining the lineup of repertory film screenings this week, including the Walker Art Center's Sound for Silents, a Rifftrax event, a special screening of The Room, and the Walker's Middle School Movie Club. Here are details on those and other repertory movies playing in the Twin Cities this week. Shin Godzilla (2016) Wednesday, Aug. 13Wednesday, Aug. 20, at various theaters (see below) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One thing the most thoughtful Godzilla films have in common is that they tend to feature the titular kaiju without any monster-sized antagonists. (See: The original, Godzilla Minus One.) Naturally, they play better on the big screen, so it's a treat to get the return of Shin Godzilla, featuring one of the most unique creature designs in Godzilla's more than half-century of existence. Something appears in Tokyo Bay that looks like a building-sized worm, relentlessly crawling into the city. It begins to evolve, sprouting legs and undergoing changes that shock onlookers. The movie shifts between terror in the streets and the painfully rote rigors of bureaucracy led by a government ill-equipped to protect the city. Sound for Silents Thursday, Aug. 14, at Walker Art Center The Walker Art Center's annual outdoor film and music returns to the museum's hillside. This year, it has commissioned a collaboration between filmmaker Philip Harder (the filmmaker behind Prince's "Cinnamon Girl" and the documentary Cue the Stringsa Film About Low) and songwriter Matt Arthur. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They have scored excerpts from Jean Epstein's gorgeous The Fall of the House of Usher (1928), the classic "The Great Train Robbery" (1903), The Wind (1928), and other films. Unfortunately, Arthur recently had a stroke, a Walker representative tells Bring Me The News. The musicians scheduled to appear Tim O'Reagan of The Jayhawks, Channy Leaneagh of Polica, Bill Patton, and others will be joined by Dave Pirner and Lady Midnight, who will perform in Arthur's place. However, Arthur will participate in the opening song. 725 Vineland Pl., Minneapolis (free) The Room (2005) 20th Anniversary Thursday, Aug. 14, at The Parkway Theater The Room may be the most beloved flop of all time. It's renowned for being very, very bad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Parkway is celebrating its 20th anniversary with Maaark, actor Greg Sestero, who wrote the book The Disaster Artist: My Life Inside The Room, The Greatest Bad Movie Ever Made. It was later adapted into the Oscar-nominated James Franco film of the same name. Sestero will host a live script reading and Q&A in addition to a screening of the movie. 4814 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis ($26.55$29) 13 Assassins (2010) Saturday, Aug. 16, and Monday, Aug. 18, at Alamo Drafthouse Takashi Miike is one of the most prolific directors, well, ever, having made more than 100 films. Even at that rapid pace, when his movies land, he makes it impossible for you to look away. (See: Audition, Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai, Sukiyaki Western Django) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 13 Assassins is a classic samurai set-up. A group of ronin decides to take a stand against corruption, knowing this will likely be their last stand. They evacuate a town to lay a trap for an evil lord and his large traveling company. Almost the entirety of its two hours and 21 minutes is occupied by the tense, fast-paced, bloody siege, which takes place on an impressive scale. 9060 Hudson Rd., Woodbury ($14.14) Taste of Cherry (1997) Monday, Aug. 18, and Wednesday, Aug. 20, at Mann Edina Theatres Abbas Kiarostami's Palme d'Or-winning drama is a dark movie that was considered divisive from the day it received a standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival. Highly praised by some, it also got powerfully panned by others, like Roger Ebert, who found that its plodding pace never paid off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Badiei (Homayoun Ershadi) has dug a hole near a cherry tree. He plans to take pills and fall asleep inside. He spends most of the film quietly driving around a barren landscape outside of Tehran, looking for someone willing to bury him there. It takes some patience, but it's a powerful film about the human condition. 3911 W. 50th St., Edina ($12.15) Related: The Dakota will celebrate its 40th anniversary with free festival on Nicollet Mall Movies screening this week in the Twin Cities: Related: Watch: Meet the stars of 'Purple Rain' the musical This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A woman is now in jail after deputies in Mississippi say she stabbed someone in the neck earlier this month. Rebecca McEwen, 58, of Oxford, Mississippi, is charged with aggravated domestic violence. On August 9, the Lafayette County Sheriffs Department says they received a report about a domestic violence incident. The victim told police that they were stabbed in the neck with a knife and was sent to Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford for treatment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man arrested for carjacking, body slamming woman in parking lot: MPD During the investigation, Rebecca McEwen was identified as the suspect. A warrant was issued at that time for her arrest. She was found and taken into custody at the Lafayette County Detention Center on the same day. She is currently held in jail 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 WREG.com. George Conway, a conservative and leading critic of President Donald Trump, has compared the Republican to a fictional mobster when discussing the DC streets takover. Conway and former Homeland Security official Miles Taylor appeared on MSNBC Wednesday to discuss Trumps takeover of Washington, D.C. Trump placed the D.C. police force under federal control and deployed the National Guard to the nations capital. Trump has claimed the move was in response to out of control crime that is getting worse, though data shows violent crime in D.C. has been declining since it hit a peak in 2023. In response, Conway compared Trump to Tony Soprano, a fictional crime boss from the TV series The Sopranos. Conway has long criticized Trump and was once married to Kellyanne Conway, who served as an adviser to the president during his first term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We don't have Ronald Reagan anymore, Conway told MSNBC, referring to the former conservative president. We have Tony Soprano. He's holding people up, threatening them, bullying them, doing things that are beyond his legal power to do. And that scares people. The Independent has contacted the White House for comment. George Conway compared President Donald Trump to the fictional mob boss Tony Soprano as he discussed the White House take over of DC streets (MSNBC) Conway went on to argue that the president intimidates and threatens his perceived enemies. We see the intimidation of people who have had the courage, like Miles [Taylor], to speak out and criticize the president, Conway said. There is no limit to how low he will go, and what he will do to intimidate and to threaten and to assert power over things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor served as the Department of Homeland Security Chief of Staff under Trumps first administration. In 2018, Taylor penned an anonymous op-ed titled, I Am Part of the Resistance Inside the Trump Administration. Taylor wrote that many Trump appointees have vowed to do what we can to preserve our democratic institutions while thwarting Mr. Trumps more misguided impulses until he is out of office. Trump signed an executive order in April targeting Taylor, stripping him of his security clearance and ordering the Justice Department to investigate his conduct. At the time, Taylor told The Independent that he predicted Trump might target him. Taylors attorneys then sent a letter to inspectors general at the Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security calling on them to investigate Trumps executive order. Taylor described the ordeal as destructive to his personal life. This has not been made easy, because once you are on the president's blacklist, all sorts of things in your life start to implode, businesses, relationships, friendships, financial, you have an army of lawyers, he told MSNBC. National Guard troops patrol near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. Trump deployed about 800 troops and took federal control of the D.C. police force on Monday (Getty Images) Later in the segment, Conway went on to say hes concerned about federal involvement in local law enforcement throughout the country. This comes after Trump revealed Wednesday that his actions in D.C. will serve as a beacon for New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and other places all over the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I also think it's important that people understand why it is that this kind of federal overreach is bad, and it's bad because it consolidates power in a federal government. And as Americans, we have never, never wanted that to happen, Conway said. We've always had a federal system where local authorities handle local things like crime and safety on the streets, public safety. For the federal government to get involved in that stuff it's just a prescription for potential abuse, because they can do it all over the country, and there are no checks, he added. So that's why we have to really draw the line here and fight back. Trump also said he wants to extend the federal takeover of the D.C. police past its 30-day limit, which would require Congressional authorization. Trump said he expects the Republicans will do it almost unanimously. STARKVILLE, Miss. (WJTV) Amazon Web Services (AWS) continues to grow in the state of Mississippi, with it now being used to help target food insecurity. Mississippi State officials announced one of its undergraduate students, Junior cybersecurity major Devin Chen, is helping design software to support Hattiesburg-based food bank Extra Table, with hopes to deliver a working platform before 2026. Utilizing artificial intelligence tools powered by AWS and a partnership with a far-reaching nonprofit, Chen is developing software to help Extra Table better recognize need and target its distributions more efficiently using publicly available data and its own organizational inventory lists. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ethels Place Memory Cafe opens in Jackson This month, Chen launched the nonprofit Mississippi Institute for Food Sustainability and Security. He hopes to connect distributors, farmers, stores and other community partners together by communicating and coordinating their efforts all on the same network. And with the assistance of AI, this information can be conglomerated together into a mass network to effectively distribute resources throughout Mississippi. The problem right now is, everyone is operating on their own infrastructure, working in their own bubbles and talking in their own languages, Chen said. If we can get everyone on the same page, we can make a massive difference in the lives of thousands of Mississippians. Chen said his idea stemmed after attending the fourth-annual AI in Agriculture conference, held by the universitys Agricultural Autonomy Institute. From there, he got into contact with Mark Scutch, an AWS senior customer solutions manager, who led Chen to connect with Extra Table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chen stated that despite the challenges of building this program, he isnt deterred and is passionate to continue developing it. A lot of people have asked me why Im doing this or said its too hard to get all of these groups and organizations in the state on the same page, but that just makes me more motivated, he said. Anytime I come across something people dont want to work on because its too difficult, that means Ive found an untapped niche. Thats something I can pursue. You have to start somewhere; you cant just throw your hands up and say, I give up. For more information on Extra Table, visit here. Close Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. NEW YORK (PIX11) It was a violent attack on two MTA workers in a Bronx subway station that made headlines across the city this past April. Since then, one of those workers was suspended as a result of his actions which he claims were in self-defense. More Local News The Bronx father, 47, said he and a conductor were spat on and struck with a scooter by a homeless man they had asked to leave an out-of-service train. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He jumps at me, spit at my face, and I went to grab him because he has the scooter he assaults the conductor with, Shepard said. Police say the 32-year-old suspect, Andre McRae, is a violent repeat subway offender. He was arrested and indicted by a Bronx grand jury for attempted assault on Shepard and his colleague. I sat for the grand jury, and they agree with all of my actions, Shepard recalled. The MTA disagrees, saying Shepard was the aggressor, embellished the incident and initially faced termination. His lawyer, Jimmy Wagner, said he signed an admission to save his job. We have management coming down on Mr. Shepard and hiding evidence that would have cleared his name, claimed attorney Wagner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That evidence, according to Shepards attorney, is an MTA internal memo, where a supervisor noted nearly a minute of CCTV footage jumped. Transit Workers Union VP Tramell Thompson believes it was intentionally withheld. More Local News Following a FOIL request received in June, Thompson was able to obtain the full video. I said I finally caught them, Thompson said. [Eric] Shepard should be exonerated and made whole for everything he lost. The MTA denies undermining the investigation. A spokesperson said: Regardless of motivation, this employees actions and subsequent statements were unacceptable and a serious violation of NYC Transit rules which is why the train operator and his union VP agreed to accept a suspension for conduct unbecoming an employee, and waive any appeals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MTA has 30 days to respond to Shepards notice of claim, in which he is seeking $10 million in damages for lost wages and mental anguish. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Mubi founder and CEO Efe Cakarel has penned an emotional letter addressed to the filmmaking community in response to the backlash surrounding the companys new investor, Sequoia Capital, and its ties to the Israeli military. Mubi, an arthouse distributor and producer with a mission to champion independent voices in cinema, has been under fire since securing a $100 million investment from Sequoia in May. It turns out the portfolio of the Silicon Valley-based venture capital company includes defense-tech startup Kela which was founded by four veterans of Israeli intelligence units in response to the terror attacks of Oct. 7 alongside big players such as Apple, Zoom and Airbnb. More from Variety Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sixty-three directors, including Nadav Lapid, Ari Folman and Aki Kaurismaki, signed a letter earlier this month criticizing Mubi for its relationship with Sequoia, claiming Mubis financial growth is tied to the genocide in Gaza and highlighting the controversial profile of Sequoia partner Shaun Maguire, who has been accused of Islamophobic social media posts. Cakarel, who was born in Turkey and studied in the U.S., began his letter by sharing his despair over the unbelievably tragic and devastating events in Gaza the loss of civilian lives, including thousands of children, the destruction of homes, hospitals and cultural institutions, and the deliberate targeting of an entire populations ability to survive and thrive. The immense suffering, displacement, and starvation of the Palestinian people is a humanitarian catastrophe that must end. We stand firmly against war and tyranny in all forms, and in support of the dignity and freedom of all people, Cakarel wrote. He then denied accusations that Mubi is complicit in the events occurring in Gaza, explaining that the profits Mubi generates do not fund any other companies in Sequoias portfolio. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our returns go to Sequoias limited partners institutions such as universities, foundations and pension funds not to other Sequoia-backed businesses such as Kela, he wrote. Any suggestion that our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue. Cakarel also singled out Shaun Maguire and said he is not a partner of any of the funds that invested in Mubi. He has no involvement with our company operationally, strategically, or in any capacity. He is not on our board, has no relationship with our team and played no role in our partnership with Sequoia, Cakarel wrote, adding that Mubi neither support nor endorse Shauns views and have voiced our strong concerns about his public statements directly to Sequoia. Since Sequoia is a minority shareholder, it has no oversight or authority over our programming, editorial or financial decisions, he continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cakarel has also taken several steps to ensure clarity around Mubis funding process with the launch of an Ethical Funding and Investment Policy and an Artists Advisory Council, which will include filmmakers and establish safeguards that separate investor interests from editorial and commissioning decisions. Lastly, Mubi is creating an Artists at Risk fund, which will see the company fund commissions, residencies and restoration projects from filmmakers working under conflict, displacement or censorship, including Palestinian filmmakers, over the next three years. While its grappled with the controversy over Sequoia in recent months, Mubi has since its founding in 2007 been hailed as a haven for international storytellers and subversive filmmakers. Last year, it canceled its international film festival in Turkey over concerns about local censorship after one its films, Luca Guadagninos Queer, was banned. However, Cakarel told Variety during his cover interview this spring that the company wasnt known for making political statements as it preferred to let its curation of films speak for itself. Over the years, Mubi has released a number of movies by Iranian, Palestinian and Turkish filmmakers including Jafar Panahi, Mohammad Rasoulof, Saeed Roustayi, Fatih Akin, Hany Abu-Assad, Haifaa Al-Mansour and Elia Suleiman. Mubi also distributed No Other Land, the Oscar-winning documentary co-directed by a team of Palestinian and Israeli filmmakers, in major European territories such as Italy and Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mubi has also been applauded by indie directors and producers for favoring theatrical releases and giving them full transparency over revenues. Last year, Mubi boarded Coralie Fargeats The Substance after Universal left the project shortly before the Cannes Film Festival and led it to earn five Oscar nominations and over $83 million globally. Later this month, Mubi will attend the Venice Film Festival with several anticipated films, including Paolo Sorrentinos La Grazia on opening night. Read Cakarels full letter below. To our community, I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to reach out over the past few weeks. Your words, your questions, and your concerns have all been heard and taken to heart. Ive spent these weeks in deep reflection, talking with our team, filmmakers, producers, and partners around the world. We have been exploring how to take thoughtful and decisive action while upholding the values that have always guided us. Whats happening in Gaza is unbelievably tragic and devastating. The loss of civilian lives, including thousands of children, the destruction of homes, hospitals, and cultural institutions, and the deliberate targeting of an entire populations ability to survive and thrive are unconscionable. We condemn all acts that harm innocent civilians and reaffirm the right of all people to live in peace and safety. The immense suffering, displacement, and starvation of the Palestinian people is a humanitarian catastrophe that must end. We stand firmly against war and tyranny in all forms, and in support of the dignity and freedom of all people. I also want to clarify our relationship with Sequoia Capital and Shaun Maguire. Following the investment from Sequoia, some have suggested that we are complicit in the events occurring in Gaza. These accusations are fundamentally at odds with the values we hold as individuals and as a company. The profits MUBI generates do not fund any other companies in Sequoias portfolio. Our returns go to Sequoias limited partners institutions such as universities, foundations, and pension funds not to other Sequoia-backed businesses such as Kela. Any suggestion that our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue. Shaun Maguire, the Sequoia partner at the center of much of this controversy, is not a partner of any of the funds that invested in MUBI. He has no involvement with our company operationally, strategically, or in any capacity. He is not on our board, has no relationship with our team, and played no role in our partnership with Sequoia. We neither support nor endorse Shauns views, and we have voiced our strong concerns about his public statements directly to Sequoia. Finally, as a minority investor, Sequoia has minimal involvement in MUBI. As the founder and CEO, I remain the largest shareholder and maintain full control over all business and curatorial decisions. Sequoia has no oversight or authority over our programming, editorial, or financial decisions. That said, we recognize that how we fund our work matters, and we are sharing initiatives we are undertaking to ensure clarity around our funding process in the future. We are formalizing an Ethical Funding and Investment Policy that will set clear criteria for future funding partners, establish safeguards that separate investor interests from editorial and commissioning decisions, and outline a process to review and address any concerns that arise. The policy will be published on August 15, 2025 for public consultation, inviting feedback from filmmakers, artists, audiences, festivals, civil-society groups, and all who care about MUBIs mission. We will review all submissions and publish the final policy on October 15, 2025. We are also forming an independent Artists Advisory Council, to be established by September 15, 2025. This group will include filmmakers, artists, and cultural voices from different regions alongside a human-rights due-diligence expert. It will advise on the Ethical Funding and Investment Policy, endorse the final policy, and continue on an ongoing basis to provide independent guidance on matters relating to MUBIs values and responsibilities. Separately, we are expanding our support for artists at risk through a dedicated Artists At Risk Fund. Over the next three years, we will fund commissions, residencies, and restoration projects administered at arms length by an independent panel, focusing on filmmakers working under conflict, displacement, or censorship, including Palestinian filmmakers. Full details will be provided by October 30, 2025. We know some in our community will want us to go further, and others may feel we have gone too far. Our responsibility is to protect a space where filmmakers and audiences can meet. That means being transparent about how we are funded, explicit about how we protect artistic independence, and humble about what we still need to learn. Looking ahead, we remain committed to the same mission that has guided us for the past 18 years: elevating great cinema and making it accessible to audiences around the globe. We will continue to champion bold and diverse voices, stay true to the values that define us, and ensure that exceptional filmmaking reaches the widest possible audience. Warmly, Efe Cakarel Founder & CEO MUBI Best of Variety Sign up for Variety's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Mubi will not be parting ways with Sequoia Capital, an investor with ties to the Israeli military, following outrage from the distributors top filmmakers, but the company has told its creatives: Any suggestion that our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue. Founder and CEO of Mubi, Efe Cakarel, has responded after over 35 directors signed an open letter to the arthouse distributor criticizing its relationship with the Silicon Valley-based company. Among them are Joshua Oppenheimer, Sarah Friedland, Levan Akin, Radu Jude, Miguel Gomes, as well as Israeli filmmakers Ari Folman, Nadav Lapid, and Amalia Ulman (whose Mubi-acquired Sundance feature Lurker is set for release on Aug. 22). More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mubis financial growth as a company is now explicitly tied to the genocide in Gaza, which implicates all of us that work with Mubi, the initial letter read. We dont believe an arthouse film platform can meaningfully support a global community of cinephiles while also partnering with a company invested in murdering Palestinian artists and filmmakers. They asked Mubi, who secured a $100 million investment from Sequoia at the end of May, publicly condemn the company for genocide profiteering, remove Sequoia partner Andrew Reed from Mubis board of directors, instate an ethical policy for all future Mubi investments, and respect programming and partnerships guidelines set by the Palestinian Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (PACBI). It comes after Sequoia invested in a defense-tech startup, Kela, co-founded last year by four Israeli intelligence unit veterans, including Omer Bar-Ilan, who worked on Israels Iron Dome. Kela describes its goal as redeploying techno-warrior talent back into the defense sector through cyberwarfare and AI, an urgent priority following the October 7 attacks. As well as this, Sequoia partner Shaun Maguire drew widespread condemnation for alleged Islamophobic social media posts, some of them regarding the new Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani. (Over 1,000 tech workers penned an open letter demanding Sequoia discipline Maguire.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cakarel told the Mubi community in a letter released to The Hollywood Reporter Thursday: Ive spent these weeks in deep reflection, talking with our team, filmmakers, producers, and partners around the world. We have been exploring how to take thoughtful and decisive action while upholding the values that have always guided us. Whats happening in Gaza is unbelievably tragic and devastating, he continues, We condemn all acts that harm innocent civilians and reaffirm the right of all people to live in peace and safety. The immense suffering, displacement, and starvation of the Palestinian people is a humanitarian catastrophe that must end. We stand firmly against war and tyranny in all forms, and in support of the dignity and freedom of all people. Cakarel clarifies that the profits Mubi generates do not fund any other companies in Sequoias portfolio. He says: Our returns go to Sequoias limited partners institutions such as universities, foundations, and pension funds not to other Sequoia-backed businesses such as Kela. Any suggestion that our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue. Maguire, he says, is not a partner of any funds that invested in Mubi, and has no involvement with the company operationally, strategically or in any capacity. He is not on our board, has no relationship with our team, and played no role in our partnership with Sequoia. We neither support nor endorse Shauns views, and we have voiced our strong concerns about his public statements directly to Sequoia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a minority investor, Sequoia has minimal involvement in Mubi. Cakarel himself remains the largest shareholder and maintains full control over the business, but Sequoia has no oversight or authority over programming, editorial, or financial decisions. Cakarel goes on to explain that Mubi is formalizing an Ethical Funding and Investment Policy, published Friday, as well as an independent Arts Advisory Council to be established in September. These will help set clear criteria for future funding partners and establish safeguards, and advise on Mubis ethical funding and investment policy. Cakarel adds that Mubi is expanding its support for artists at risk through a dedicated fund, where the company will fund commissions, residencies, and restoration projects administered at arms length by an independent panel, focusing on filmmakers working under conflict, displacement or censorship, including Palestinian filmmakers. The full letter from Mubi CEO and founder Efe Cakarel can be read below. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To our community, I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to reach out over the past few weeks. Your words, your questions, and your concerns have all been heard and taken to heart. Ive spent these weeks in deep reflection, talking with our team, filmmakers, producers, and partners around the world. We have been exploring how to take thoughtful and decisive action while upholding the values that have always guided us. Whats happening in Gaza is unbelievably tragic and devastating. The loss of civilian lives, including thousands of children, the destruction of homes, hospitals, and cultural institutions, and the deliberate targeting of an entire populations ability to survive and thrive are unconscionable. We condemn all acts that harm innocent civilians and reaffirm the right of all people to live in peace and safety. The immense suffering, displacement, and starvation of the Palestinian people is a humanitarian catastrophe that must end. We stand firmly against war and tyranny in all forms, and in support of the dignity and freedom of all people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I also want to clarify our relationship with Sequoia Capital and Shaun Maguire. Following the investment from Sequoia, some have suggested that we are complicit in the events occurring in Gaza. These accusations are fundamentally at odds with the values we hold as individuals and as a company. The profits MUBI generates do not fund any other companies in Sequoias portfolio. Our returns go to Sequoias limited partners institutions such as universities, foundations, and pension funds not to other Sequoia-backed businesses such as Kela. Any suggestion that our work is connected to funding the war is simply untrue. Shaun Maguire, the Sequoia partner at the center of much of this controversy, is not a partner of any of the funds that invested in MUBI. He has no involvement with our company operationally, strategically, or in any capacity. He is not on our board, has no relationship with our team, and played no role in our partnership with Sequoia. We neither support nor endorse Shauns views, and we have voiced our strong concerns about his public statements directly to Sequoia. Finally, as a minority investor, Sequoia has minimal involvement in MUBI. As the founder and CEO, I remain the largest shareholder and maintain full control over all business and curatorial decisions. Sequoia has no oversight or authority over our programming, editorial, or financial decisions. That said, we recognize that how we fund our work matters, and we are sharing initiatives we are undertaking to ensure clarity around our funding process in the future. We are formalizing an Ethical Funding and Investment Policy that will set clear criteria for future funding partners, establish safeguards that separate investor interests from editorial and commissioning decisions, and outline a process to review and address any concerns that arise. The policy will be published on August 15, 2025 for public consultation, inviting feedback from filmmakers, artists, audiences, festivals, civil society groups, and all who care about MUBIs mission. We will review all submissions and publish the final policy on October 15, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are also forming an independent Artists Advisory Council to be established by September 15, 2025. This group will include filmmakers, artists, and cultural voices from different regions alongside a human-rights due diligence expert. It will advise on the Ethical Funding and Investment Policy, endorse the final policy, and continue on an ongoing basis to provide independent guidance on matters relating to MUBIs values and responsibilities. Separately, we are expanding our support for artists at risk through a dedicated Artists At Risk Fund. Over the next three years, we will fund commissions, residencies, and restoration projects administered at arms length by an independent panel, focusing on filmmakers working under conflict, displacement, or censorship, including Palestinian filmmakers. Full details will be provided by October 30, 2025. We know some in our community will want us to go further, and others may feel we have gone too far. Our responsibility is to protect a space where filmmakers and audiences can meet. That means being transparent about how we are funded, explicit about how we protect artistic independence, and humble about what we still need to learn. Looking ahead, we remain committed to the same mission that has guided us for the past 18 years: elevating great cinema and making it accessible to audiences around the globe. We will continue to champion bold and diverse voices, stay true to the values that define us, and ensure that exceptional filmmaking reaches the widest possible audience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warmly, Efe Cakarel, Founder & CEO, MUBI. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. A 35-year-old McKinney man has been booked into the Collin County Jail on a murder charge following his arrest by Texas state troopers on August 7. Jeremiah Garcia Patterson was taken into custody on a warrant issued in McKinney, according to Collin County jail records. Sheriffs Department Sgt. Jessia Pond told The Dallas Express that Patterson was later transferred to the Collin County Jail, where records show he is being held on a $1 million bond for first-degree felony murder. A blog post on the Texas Trial Attorney website explains capital murder (first-degree murder) as the most serious homicide charge in the state, capital murder carries the most severe penalties possible for such a charge: either the death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Records available on the Collin County website reveal that an affidavit of indigency had been filed for Patterson on August 8, indicating that he is unable to afford legal proceedings. In cases like these, courts typically waive certain legal fees, and the defendant receives a public defender. The Dallas Express attempted multiple times to reach the Collin County clerks office via telephone to obtain the arrest warrant affidavit, but received no response. A Texas Public Information Act request has since been filed for the document, though it may be some time before further details are released. According to jail records, Patterson was born in 1989, is 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighs 170 pounds, and has black hair and brown eyes. No information has been made public about the victim in the case or the events leading up to Pattersons arrest. The alleged murder adds to a string of violent incidents in the DallasFort Worth area this summer. Earlier this week, Dallas police reported that 37-year-old Justin Edwards died after being stabbed on Adleta Boulevard around 3:25 a.m. Monday. Dallas Fire-Rescue found Edwards at the scene and transported him to a hospital, where he died from his injuries, The Dallas Express reported. In late July, a woman named Kubra Zafer was found dead in a closet in McKinney. Her husband, Eslam Said Mohamed, was later arrested on murder charges, The Dallas Express previously reported. Three sheriff's deputies were "shaken up" but are expected to survive after being injured in gunfire while serving warrants and a protective order at a home in rural Pittsylvania County, Virginia. The shooting on Wednesday was confirmed by Rep. John McGuire, R-Va., on social media. "My thoughts and prayers are with the deputies who were shot in Pittsylvania County, as well as their families," McGuire said in a post on X. "We are closely following the situation and keeping everyone affected in our hearts during this difficult time." Pittsylvania County Sheriff Michael Taylor said the warrants being served were for brandishing a firearm and trespassing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 Pennsylvania State Troopers Shot In 'Active' Scene A large police presence surrounds a suspected incident where multiple deputies are confirmed to have been shot on Wednesday, August 13 in Pittsylvania, Virginia. "All three are well. Of course theyre shaken up. And theyre going through the process now of trying to heal," Taylor said, adding: "They're OK." Taylor said the officers were met with gunfire when they approached the home and called for backup. The officers all appear to have been wounded by shrapnel and none were directly hit, Taylor said. Read On The Fox News App A standoff ensued before the suspect eventually gave up and came out of the house on his own. The suspect, James Andru Lehnerd, was taken into custody and is awaiting charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blue Cities In Trump's Crosshairs After Dc Police Takeover The sheriff asked the Virginia State Police to investigate the shooting. "Were very happy that there were no further injuries tonight. This could have ended much worse than it did," Sgt. Rick Garletts, a spokesperson for the Virginia State Police, told the Associated Press. A large police presence remained at the scene late Wednesday in Gretna, near the border between North Carolina and Virginia. Fox News Digital's Greg Norman and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Original article source: Multiple Virginia deputies 'shaken up' after being injured in gunfire while serving warrants, protective order A school bus carrying over 40 children and one adult on the first day of the new school year rolled over onto its side in Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, leaving 12 injured, officials said. The bus was carrying students from the Leander Independent School District in northwest Austin in Travis County. Travis County emergency services - PHOTO: A school bus carrying 42 children and one adult on the first day of the new school year rolled over onto its side near Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, leaving 12 injured. Austin-Travis County emergency services were dispatched to the scene on Nameless Road in Travis County just after 3:15 p.m. local time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: School bus driver speaks out after rescuing 15 students from burning bus Officials said there were 42 children and one adult on the bus at the time. Photos from the scene show the yellow school bus rolled over into an embankment surrounded by trees, with the vehicle appearing to have significant damage. Of those injured, 12 people were transported from the scene to a local hospital and the remaining people were taken to a reunification center for further evaluation and to be reconnected with family. Travis County emergency services - PHOTO: A school bus carrying over 40 children and one adult on the first day of the new school year rolled over onto its side near Austin, Texas, on Wednesday, leaving 12 injured, officials said. MORE: 15 injured when school bus overturns in New Jersey One individual has a life-threatening injury and two others have potentially life-threatening injuries, Austin-Travis County officials said during a press conference Wednesday evening. The rest have non-life-threatening injuries, officials said. It has not yet been released whether the adult on board was among those transported. ABC News' Irving Last contributed to this report. A mum-of-seven will follow her childhood dream of becoming a midwife after returning to college to better her qualifications. Emily Porter, 38, from Mildenhall, Suffolk, left school with grades she said "weren't very good" and went on to work jobs in hairdressing and floristry. After the Covid pandemic she decided she wanted to do something more meaningful with her life and had always wanted to become a midwife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After taking various courses through the Eastern Education Group, she has passed and will go on to study at the University of Suffolk which she said she "could not believe". "I never thought I was clever enough to be a midwife," Ms Porter said. "But I always say to my kids that as long as you set your mind to something, you can be anything you want to be. Pilots and doctors are human just like you. "But then I wasn't following the advice I was giving to them. "So, I decided to go back to college and give it everything I've got. "I was looking after my seven children (aged between two and 16), working in a pub a couple of nights a week and studying between 04:00 and 07:00 before the kids got up and at weekends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was a struggle - but I kept at it. I never quit," she said. Ms Porter said the Eastern Education Group's support had been "amazing" [Eastern and Education Group] In 2023 Ms Porter spoke with the team at West Suffolk College's learning centre in Thetford, Norfolk, who helped her find a route back into education. She then completed four functional skills qualifications in 12 months and a health-related access course at the Eastern Education Group's University and Professional Development Centre in Bury St Edmunds. Her midwifery degree will take three years and she added the thought of graduating left her "emotional". "My message to others is that you can always find a way you just need to look for it," she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ian Evans, the head of Personal and Professional Learning at the West Suffolk College centre in Thetford, said Ms Porter had been "a superb student who is a total inspiration". Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. More on this story Related internet links Voters in Muscatine will elect a mayor and three city council members during the municipal election on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Seats on the ballot include: Mayor (two-year term), Second Ward Council Member (four-year term), Fourth Ward Council Member (four-year term), and one At-Large Council Member (four-year term). Nomination petitions are available from the Muscatine County Auditors Office or the Iowa Secretary of States website. The filing period opens Aug. 25, 2025, and closes at 5 p.m. Sept. 18, 2025. Each candidate must collect at least 25 signatures from eligible votersWard seats require signatures from residents of that Ward, while citywide seats require signatures from residents across Muscatine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City council members must be residents of the City of Muscatine and shall maintain his or her primary residence in the Ward they are elected to represent at the time a petition for election is filed, at the time of election, and continuing throughout the term of office. The following information is available for eligible residents who would like to be on the ballot for one of the four offices: Nominating petitions and affidavits are available from the Muscatine County Auditors office or the Iowa Secretary of State website. The first day to file nomination papers is Monday, Aug. 25, 2025, with the deadline to file nomination papers at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025. Nominations can only be filed at the Muscatine County Auditors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A minimum of 25 signatures of eligible electors is required per office. For Ward specific positions, signers must reside in the appropriate Ward. For the At-Large position and for mayor the signers must be city-wide residents. Click on Election Information to visit the City of Muscatine website and learn more about the City of Muscatine election process, or to view the Precinct and Ward map for the City of Muscatine. Additionally you can click on Auditors Office to visit the Muscatine County website where you can also find links to register to vote, learn how to apply for an absentee ballot, or to review past election results. You can also click on this link (Elections and Voting) to visit the Iowa Secretary of State website for more information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. The Museum at Warm Springs has secured $1.5 million in state funding to launch a major renewal of its aging yet iconic Permanent Exhibit. The funding, distributed through the Cultural Resources Economic Fund (CREF), officially kicks off the Museums capital campaign to update outdated technology and share the evolving story of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. The Museum was one of 13 arts and cultural organizations in Oregon to receive funding. Staff collaborated closely with the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon the only statewide nonprofit advocating for public support of arts, culture, heritage, and humanities throughout the application and legislative process. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This was an amazing effort by the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon, our staff and consultants, our Board of Directors and Board of Regents, the Permanent Exhibit Steering Committee, which includes Warm Springs Tribal members, and others who advised and advocated, testified on our behalf, wrote letters of support, and met personally with our legislators in Salem, said Museum Executive Director Elizabeth A. Woody (Warm Springs, Yakama, and Dine). Were immensely grateful to our champions in the Legislature, including Arts and Culture Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Rob Nosse... Sen. Dick Anderson... Rep. Greg Smith... Sen. Todd Nash... and to everyone who listened to us and helped get us here, Woody continued. We also know Representatives in other districts supported our effort, including Rep. Kate Lieber and Rep. Tawna Sanchez. The 7,500-square-foot Permanent Exhibit is the heart of the Museum and represents the voice of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. A 2023 grant of $90,000 from Visit Central Oregon funded initial planning. The estimated budget for Permanent Exhibit renewal is more than $3 million, so the CREF funding is an excellent head start, said Woody. Fundraising is now a primary goal. Were reaching out to Oregon foundations, corporate partners, national funders, and asking our members, visitors, and supporters to contribute. With everyones support we are confident that we will be successful in renewing our Permanent Exhibit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Originally built in 1993 with then-cutting-edge technology, the exhibit has deteriorated significantly. Most of its equipment is outdated or nonfunctional, and aging infrastructure poses risks to artifacts. Meanwhile, museum technology has evolved dramatically along with the deepening cultural stories of the Warm Springs Tribes. When the Museum at Warm Springs was first established, esteemed Simnasho District Tribal Council Representative Delbert Frank, who is now an Ancestor, asked that the design do two things one, that the building represent the three tribes (Warm Springs, Wasco, Northern Paiute) as separate but equal, and two, that the Museum tells the truth about who we are, where we come from, and that our story continues, said Woody. The renewed Permanent Exhibit will continue being the storyteller of the Warm Springs Tribes and this place. To support the project, donations can be mailed to: The Museum, PO Box 909, Warm Springs, OR 97761 (Note: Permanent Exhibit Renewal) Or made online at: www.museumatwarmsprings.org (click Donate and select Permanent Exhibit Renewal). 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 A Haverhill man employed as a police officer in New Hampshire has been charged in federal court with receiving child sexual abuse material. John Giarrusso, 49, a member of the Seabrook Police Department, was arrested Thursday morning and charged with one count of receipt of child pornography, according to the Office of the U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts. He was scheduled to appear in court in Boston at 2 p.m. On Oct. 16 and 17, 2024, Giarrusso received video files depicting child sexual abuse on the social media app Kik, authorities say. The victims in the videos were approximately 5 to 11 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giarrusso was previously arrested and charged by the Essex County District Attorneys Office in March. He was charged with possession of child pornography and distribution of graphic sexual images to a minor and was currently out on bail. The Seabrook Police Department said at the time that Giarrusso had immediately been placed on leave after the Haverhill Police Department notified them of his arrest. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact the U.S. Attorneys Office at 617-748-3274 or USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov. If convicted on the federal charge, Giarrusso could face between five and 20 years in prison, five years to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The latest from MassLive Read the original article on MassLive. New Jerseyans will soon see much-sought-after help on their electricity bills as the states energy regulators on Wednesday approved a $100 subsidy to offset high energy prices that have ballooned amid intense summer heat. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities approved the credit during a meeting on Wednesday, agency officials said. The payment is part of a $430 million relief package Gov. Phil Murphy announced in June. The measure covers all of New Jerseys 3.9 million customers being served by one of four of its public energy providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ratepayers are expected to see a $50 credit to their energy bill in September and October, NJBPU officials said. This bill credit fulfills Gov. Murphys commitment to provide immediate relief to residential customers to manage capacity cost increases this summer, NJBPU President Christine Guhl-Sadovy said Thursday. This is one of many ways that NJBPU is putting affordability first. Guhl-Sadovy reaffirmed the boards commitment to add more electricity to New Jerseys grid to meet energy demand, ultimately reducing costs further. The direct relief follows other executive actions Murphy announced this year to stave off burdensome electric bills. The four companies also agreed with the Murphy administration to defer $60 on customer bills to later in the year, when the demand for energy drops following summer weather. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Providing economic relief to our residents is critical in managing rising electric costs from the PJM cost crisis, Murphy said in a statement. My administration is furthering our commitment to affordability for our residential ratepayers by providing direct assistance to lower the monthly cost of energy bills. No New Jerseyan should fear losing electricity, and we will continue to work with BPU to ensure necessary action is taken to combat untenable energy bills for families and businesses. Additionally, New Jerseys moderate-to-lower-income earners were made eligible for additional relief through the package. Those eligible for New Jerseys Residential Energy Assistance Program, known as REAP, were approved for an additional $175 on top of the base $100, raising the total relief to $275. Payments to those earners, whose eligibility was based on data from the states Winter Termination Program, will be doled out between this month and February 2026, the NJBPU said. Energy prices have continued to be cited by New Jerseyans as one of their most costly expenses. Experts anticipate it will be among the top topics in the upcoming election, when New Jersey will vote on its next governor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats have opposed the energy auction process of PJM Interconnection, the grid manager for the states energy, which covers about 65 million customers in the Northeast. Republicans instead have criticized Murphys energy policies, which have centered around green-energy initiatives. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com. A Bergen County man has been arrested on child pornography and other child abuse charges for hiding a camera in a female restroom at his workplace, authorities said. Police arrested Ryan Curtin, 25, of Oakland, on Wednesday in Paramus after an investigation led by the Bergen County Prosecutors Office. The Ramsey Police Department first discovered a hidden camera in April 2025 at Tiger Schulmans Martial Arts in town, Curtins workplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The hidden camera recorded multiple victims, including children, in various stages of undress while using the restroom, authorities said. Curtin is currently waiting in the Bergen County Jail, pending a first appearance in superior court. Victoria Gladstone may be reached at vgladstone@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @TorigNJAM. Find NJ.com on Facebook. The rabbi of a synagogue destroyed by fire in Bergen County has promised to rebuild with help from community donations that had exceeded $260,000 nearly a week after the devastating blaze. The four-alarm fire broke out about 2:45 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, at Beth El Chabad on Montross Avenue, where Rabbi Yitzchok Lerman and his family, who lived in an apartment inside the synagogue, escaped unharmed. But the building collapsed in the flames, leaving the rabbi and family members without a home or place or worship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We heard glass breaking. We saw the flames. When we heard the fire alarms go off, we quickly grabbed our children, ran out of our home, Lerman said in a video posted to a fundraising website. The video shows Lerman standing against the backdrop of the burned-out synagogue, reduced to a pile of rubble on Montross Avenue. The synagogue has been described as a total loss. My family is mourning the loss, our community is mourning the loss, Lerman said. We will be back. We will rebuild. As of early Thursday, the fundraising campaign had raised $263,758 in donations. Lerman said once the structure is rebuilt, the shul will be greater than we had before, better than we had before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were going to have more programs, more things for children, a better playground for them to play in, he said. We thank everybody for your support, for all those who have reached out personally to support us, those who have reached out to our community, Lerman said. Rutherford police said the preliminary investigation determined the fire was not intentionally set. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. The influential sister of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has denied South Korean reports that Pyongyang has begun dismantling loudspeakers along the border that had been used for propaganda broadcasts. "We have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them," Kim Yo Jong was quoted as saying by state news agency KCNA, the regime's mouthpiece, on Thursday. The 37-year-old also firmly rejected hopes of a rapprochment between the two hostile neighbours, saying: "We have clarified on several occasions that we have no will to improve relations with [South Korea]." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This conclusive stand and viewpoint will be fixed in our constitution in the future," she added. Her comments come after the South Korean General Staff on Saturday announced that North Korea had begun dismantling the loudspeakers along the common border. This was just days after South Korea completely removed its own loudspeaker systems in an effort to ease tensions between the two countries. South Korea had already halted broadcasts from its loudspeakers in mid-June. President Lee Jae Myung described the step as part of his efforts to reach out to the North. Since taking office, Lee has sought to improve the strained relationship between the two sides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under Lee's predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, the loudspeakers had been reactivated for the first time in six years, in response to balloons launched from North Korea that carried trash into the South. The Korean peninsula has been divided between Communist North Korea and the democratic South since the Korean War fought from 1950-53. Since no official peace treaty has been signed since, the two states are officially still at war. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's sister has rebutted South Korea's claims that Pyongyang removed some of its propaganda-blasting loudspeakers along the border. North Korea has "never removed" the speakers and "are not willing to remove them", Kim Yo Jong said in a statement published by state media KCNA on Thursday. "We have clarified on several occasions that we have no will to improve relations with [South Korea]," she said, adding that this stance "will be fixed in our constitution in the future". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Korea's military said earlier this week that North Korea had removed some of its loudspeakers along the border - days after South Korea dismantled some of its own. Kim, the deputy director of North Korea's propaganda department, said Seoul's claim was an "unfounded unilateral supposition and a red herring". Besides propaganda messages, South Korea's broadcasts often blasted K-pop songs across the border. while North Korea played unsettling noises such as howling animals. South Korean residents living near the border had complained that their lives were being disrupted been by the noise from both sides, sometimes in the middle of the night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pyongyang considers Seoul's propaganda broadcasts an act of war and has threatened to blow up the speakers in the past. South Korea's speaker broadcasts resumed in June 2024 after a six year pause under impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol who took a more hardline stance against the North. They were restarted after Pyongyang began sending rubbish-filled balloons to the South in response to increased tensions. The relationship appeared to have thawed under new President Lee Jae Myung, who campaigned on improving inter-Korean ties. South Korea halted its broadcasts along the demilitarised zone shortly after Lee took office in June, in what the country's military described as a bid to "restore trust" and "achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, ties between the two neighbours remain uneasy. Earlier this week, North Korea warned of "resolute counteraction" to provocations ahead of joint military drills between South Korea and the US. NACOGDOCHES COUNTY, Texas (KETK) The Nacogdoches County Commissioners Court approved calling for a $75 million bond to fund a new jail on Wednesday. The Nacogdoches Commissioners Court held a regular meeting on Wednesday to discuss multiple items on the agenda, including the consideration of approving a bond for a new jail facility in the county. During the meeting, Commissioner Mark Harkness explained the countys current jail situation and why a new jail facility is under consideration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we all know, we have an overcrowding situation in the jail, Harkness said. Its something that we have been dealing with for several years and it is costing the county a lot of money. Harkness also mentioned that a 2014 study concluded the county lacked sufficient funds to build a new jail. A citizen jail committee was formed and they worked to find solutions. The committee recommended that the court call for a $75 million bond with a maturity term of 30 years. According to Harkness, the committee is looking at a jail that could house around 570 inmates. The proposition was brought to a motion during the meeting and was seconded by one of the commissioners. The bond election is set for Nov. 4 and will not exceed $75 million. This is the peoples jail, its the peoples choice and they can decide whether they want to fund the jail, thats where we are at, Harkness said. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. NAPERVILLE, Ill. As some students in southwest suburban Naperville headed back to school Thursday, teachers in the Naperville Unit District 203 went back to the classroom without a contract. The districts contract with the Naperville Unit Education Association (NUEA), which represents 1,500 teachers and licensed staff members who serve nearly 16,000 students in the district, expired at the end of June. The district and the teachers union have been bargaining since February on two key issues: salary and changes to the school-day schedule. CPS leaders present plan to close $700M+ budget shortfall that avoids cuts to classrooms Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teachers in the union voted this week to authorize a strike, which gives the bargaining team the authority to declare one. However, in an NUEA news release, the union says there are no plans to go on strike at this time. I think it would be heartbreaking for the kids. We are just getting back and everyone is very excited. We hope we can find a solution so that the kids can stay in school, parent Amelia Polheber said. Both sides are scheduled to return to the bargaining table next week Tuesday, Aug. 19. The districts 2025-26 academic year began this week, with students reporting Thursday for the first day of classes. The union says it initiated the public posting process with the Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board in July, the first step toward a possible strike. If talks continue to stall, the union says it will give parents plenty of notice before any strike happens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A strike is a last resort, but it is the reality of where we are right now, Ross Berkley, NUEA President, said. Were working with federal mediation to try to expedite contract talks. We will be at the table next week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with a federal mediator, our team, and the Board of Educations team. Were confident we can get movement, and that we can come to an agreement. How to get kids back on a sleep schedule for the school year The districts Board of Education released a statement in response to the unions strike authorization vote, saying it remains fully committed to reaching a fair, fiscally responsible solution focused on keeping students in school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have an opportunity right now to show our students what problem solving and collaboration look like. By working together, we can ensure that their education remains strong, stable and uninterrupted, Dan Bridges, Naperville Unit District 203 Superintendent, said in the statement. I see the dedication our educators bring to their classrooms every day, and I understand the boards responsibility to our entire community. I believe we can honor both commitments. School schedule, wages at issue The union says changes to the school schedule could cause major shifts in the timing of after-school activities for students, in some cases leaving less learning time. On the issue of wages, the union says the district is falling behind on competitive salaries, even as the workload for teachers has increased. The union says its done extensive research to support its proposals and that a cost analysis shows the district has 300 days of cash on-hand, nearly twice the amount recommended by the Illinois Board of Education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines In a letter to families, meanwhile, the districts Board of Education said the unions wage proposal would damage the districts long-term financial health and put it on an unsustainable fiscal path. The district says its contract offer provides a competitive increase in compensation while also protecting the communitys money. Our focus remains on reaching an agreement that puts students first, honors the dedication of our exceptional educators, and reflects the values of the Naperville 203 community, the letter states, in part. We are deeply grateful for the passion and commitment our educators bring to their work. This belief is demonstrated by our competitive compensation, as our educators salaries were in the top 3% of large unit districts across the state for 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. EFFINGHAM Colonel Greg Settle celebrated his retirement from serving almost 30 years in the United States National Guard at Village Wine & Spirits with family, friends and fellow soldiers he served with. Settle joined the National Guard 30 years ago to pay for college. I was just a high school kid. I saw a sign that said free college. Im like, whats this all about? said Settle. So I went in and spoke with a recruiter, and here we are 29 years later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Settle retired because hes ready for the next chapter in his life, where he will spend it with his family, specifically his two sons, Jackson and Wesley. Settle runs a motorcycle racing team called Unsettled Racing where Jackson, 14, and Wesley, 11, race. Its a hobby. I get to spend time with my children, said Settle. Its something they love doing and something I thoroughly enjoy doing, as well. He used to ride motorcycles in the past, but he might be inspired to pick up the hobby again. Retirement is really opening up that chapter of whats next, said Settle. During his service, Settle went on four tours: Two in Iraq from 2004 to 2006, one in Afghanistan from 2008 to 2009 and one in Jordan from 2020 to 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his Afghanistan tour, his team replaced another team in a tough area. The team before his had a 50% casualty rate, but his entire group survived. You just have to look to the man upstairs and say, thank you, said Settle. That was a challenging time in my life, and being able to come through that unscathed was a miracle. I will always remember that. Before Settle gave his celebratory speech, he was presented with multiple awards: two certificates of appreciation, two certificates of service, a framed retirement flag and a United States Army Soldier for Life lapel pin. A military career is about the people and relationships you form Its not about the medals you get, said Settle during his speech. Its about the teamwork you have together So without the people, without the relationships that you formed, you cant have a career. You just cant. Its not possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of Settles fellow soldiers who came to celebrate his retirement was Brigadier General Lenny Williams. Williams served with Settle for Settles last 20 years of service, and they became friends as they climbed ranks together. We grew up together in our infantry brigade in Illinois: the thirty-third infantry brigade combat team, said Williams. Greg is technically and tactically one of the best infantry officers I ever served with It was a pleasure to serve with him. He made service fun. The Illinois National Guard has around 10,000 soldiers and only 23 colonels. I wanted to make sure we did something to officially give Greg the things that come with a retirement and 30 years of service and being a former colonel, said Williams. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams helped organize the retirement celebration with Settles family, fellow soldiers and significant other, Stacy Harshbarger. Thats not something you stick in the mail to conclude a career like that, said Williams. It is virtually impossible or improbable to make it to full-bird colonel in the army. During his speech, Settle took a moment to shine the spotlight on his mother, Beverly Hart, for her courage and inspiration. Im very, very close with my mother She fought cancer five times. Not many people can say that, Settle said during his closing remarks. She stood by me through good times, bad times, trying times, but without her and her courage and ability to continue to push me and keep going, I couldnt have done it. I want to just say how proud I am of my son. I was almost in tears, said Hart. Only 1% of the population is willing to do this, and he was one of those. The United States is Taiwan's biggest arms supplier but posts in late July claiming to show US naval forces arriving on the self-ruled island misuse old footage. It depicts American soldiers during a military exercise in Virginia. "The army of. US.. Has arrived. in Taiwan," says part of Tagalog-language text overlaid to a Facebook video shared July 30, 2025. The footage, showing aerial shots of troops disembarking from a ship on a beach, has racked up more than one million views. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Let's pray for our fellow Filipinos working in Taiwan," says a narrator, adding the US Navy landed in Taiwan amid heightened tensions with China. Screenshot of the false post taken on August 10, 2025, with the red X mark added by AFP The video has also been reshared on TikTok by Filipino users worried about potential conflict in their nearest northern neighbour. Communist China has never ruled Taiwan but Beijing insists the island is part of its territory and has threatened to use force to bring it under its control (archived link). While the United States is legally bound to provide arms to Taiwan -- which Beijing opposes -- Washington has long maintained "strategic ambiguity" when it comes to whether it would deploy its military to defend it from a Chinese attack (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to retired US Navy Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery in a May 15 Congressional hearing, there are about 500 US military trainers in Taiwan (archived link). However, the circulating video shows clips from a military exercise on the eastern coast of the United States. Google reverse image searches found the visuals originally published on the US Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS) on July 1, 2025 (archived link). The DVIDS caption says they depict an amphibious landing during the Atlantic Alliance exercise in Virginia on June 30, 2025. The Atlantic Alliance exercise is conducted "along the eastern seaboard of the United States" by the US Fleet Forces Command and US Marine Forces Command, it adds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clips from the 10-minute video have been mirrored and repurposed in the false posts. The video of troops landing on the beach corresponds to the 2:42 mark of the DVIDS video. Screenshot comparison of the false video (L) and the US DVIDS video At the 5:30 mark, the same military vehicle is seen disembarking the ship. Screenshot comparison of the false video (L) and the US DVIDS video Finally, the aerial video of a huge ship docking on the beach to bring in more military men matches the 6:23 mark of the DVIDS video. Screenshot comparison of the false video (L) and the US DVIDS video The video compilation also appeared on the US Central Command's official website on June 30, 2025 (archived link). AFP has fact-checked other misinformation related to Taiwan here. Northbound lanes of Greenfield Road in Dearborn will close Saturday, Aug. 16, for the citys annual Arbaeen march commemorating Imam Hussain, an important figure in Islam. The procession, which begins at 1 p.m., is expected to draw thousands of participants. In 2024, approximately 37,000 people from Michigan and beyond participated in the peaceful march, according to the Karbalaa Islamic Educational Center. Attendees this year are encouraged to bring their own prayer mats. They will first pray together at the Karbalaa Islamic Educational Center, located at 15332 W. Warren Ave., before marching toward Ford Woods Park, at 5700 Greenfield Rd. It is first year that attendees will be able to pray together, the center said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Northbound Greenfield will be closed from Ford Road to Warren Avenue for the event. Road restrictions will begin on Warren Avenue before the march and expand to Greenfield shortly thereafter, according to the City of Dearborn. Police will be on-site to assist with traffic until the event ends. The city did not disclose the exact time Greenfield Road will reopen, but the event is expected to last several hours. Drivers are asked to take alternate routes. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a solemn occasion where Imam Hussain, Prophet Muhammads grandson, and many of his companions and family members are remembered and honored after being killed in the Battle of Karbala in Iraq in A.D. 680. Shias say Imam Hussain and those close to him were outnumbered and killed after refusing to pledge allegiance to Yazid I, who ruled the Umayyad Caliphate at the time. Arbaeen, which means 40 in Arabic, marks the end of a 40-day mourning period for Imam Hussain, his relatives and companions. Observers pay tribute to their sacrifice and resistance against tyranny. The Karbalaa Islamic Educational Center has organized the annual Dearborn procession since 2004, led by Imam Husham Al-Husainy, a fixture in the Iraqi-American community. Imam Husham Al-Husainy photographed at Karbalaa Islamic Education Center on Tuesday, December 8, 2015, in Dearborn, MI. Al-Husainy said the injustice Hussain, his family, and followers suffered in the Battle of Karbala is not only historical but a recurring narrative, such as the current plight of the Palestinian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What's happening to Gaza today is a new Karbala," Al-Husainy told the Free Press. "One of the purposes of the event is to not only remind the people of historical oppression, but also the present oppression of the people of Gaza." More: Dearborn cleric previously listed as speaker at Trump inauguration does not appear The march is open to everyone and aims to unite people of different backgrounds. Religious leaders from various faiths attend and speak at the event each year, the Imam said. The event is needed. Its not only religious or spiritual; its about awareness, Al-Husainy said. Some negative posts and comments circulate online during Ashura and Arbaeen processions in Dearborn, with onlookers confused by thousands marching in black clothing, carrying flags, and chanting Labaik Ya Hussain, which translates to At your service, oh Hussain." Al-Husainy said that does not deter him or the participants. Instead, he invites anyone who is confused to join, be open-minded and ask questions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 1,300 years later, the Arba'een "is remembered by millions of people around the world," according to the UK-based nonprofit organization, Who Is Hussain? "Typically, on this day, people organise large marches in cities across the world to symbolise the eternal nature of Hussains revolution and to show they stand for social justice, compassion and dignity." Globally, according to the Associated Press, the Iraqi government said it is preparing to host millions of pilgrims in Karbala this year for the Arbaeen commemorating Imam Hussain and others killed in the A.D. 680 battle in what many call one of the worlds largest gatherings. Some pilgrims walk for days from various parts of Iraq or neighboring countries to visit the shrines of Hussain and his companions. "People come from all over the world to Karbala; it's become a symbol of freedom, human rights, unity, dignity and liberation," Al-Husainy said. 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: Dearborn Arbaeen march to close NB Greenfield Road Saturday Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers, center, announces a new antitrust lawsuit Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, against four major semitruck manufacturers and a national trade association. Flanking him are Kent Grisham, president and CEO of the Nebraska Trucking Association, at left, and Lincoln County Commissioner Chris Bruns. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) LINCOLN Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers is taking a victory lap after four major semitruck manufacturers his office sued last fall agreed this week that California-led electric vehicle standards and emissions rules are now voided. Hilgers last November announced a state-level antitrust lawsuit against Daimler Truck North America, International Motors Inc. (formerly Navistar Inc.), PACCAR Inc., and Volvo Group North America, as well as the Truck and Engine Manufacturers Association. His office had targeted a joint Clean Truck Partnership involving the manufacturers, trade association and California regulators that required regulatory compliance even if those mandates were unlawful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After manufacturers said Monday that those California rules are no longer binding, while being careful not to assume liability, Hilgers said its a culmination of a multi-front war against a destructive ideological agenda. If successful, these efforts would have decimated jobs in Nebraska, cut off parts of rural [America] from [a] regular supply of goods and raised consumer prices, Hilgers wrote this week on X, formerly Twitter. Nebraska has been leading the fight, and we have been winning. The lawsuit was filed in Lincoln County District Court, in North Platte, which Hilgers described as Nebraskas epicenter for transportation. The Energy Marketers of America and Renewable Fuels Nebraska had joined Hilgers in his lawsuit. The lawsuit was the third prong in Nebraskas fight against California-initiated shortsighted and damaging electric-truck mandates, the Nebraska AGs Office said this week. Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers, center, announces a new antitrust lawsuit Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, against four major semitruck manufacturers and a national trade association. Flanking him are Kent Grisham, president and CEO of the Nebraska Trucking Association, at left, and Lincoln County Commissioner Chris Bruns. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) In May 2024, Hilgers challenged Californias Advanced Clean Fleet regulations in federal court, guidelines that had spurred the subsequent Clean Truck Partnership in July 2023. Hilgers and Nebraska truckers said the California regulations reached well beyond Californias borders and would potentially block access to California or its ports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California state regulators agreed to repeal the Advanced Clean Fleet regulations this May. Nebraska, along with 24 other states, also sued the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last year seeking to repeal EV mandates and regulations crafted under former President Joe Biden. President Donald Trumps administration recently agreed to repeal those requirements. Liane Randolph, chair of the California Air Resources Board, had praised the Clean Truck Partnership as an unprecedented collaboration that marks a new era in our zero-emission future. This agreement makes it clear that we have shared goals to tackle pollution and climate change and to ensure the success of the truck owners and operators who provide critical services to Californias economy, Randolph said in a July 2023, statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hilgers argued the partnership was unlawful in part because the four targeted manufacturers had secured an oligopoly on producing 99.9% of trucks over 33,000 pounds, including: Cement mixers. Dump trucks. Fire trucks. Fuel trucks. Heavy semi-tractors. Refrigerated vans. Semi sleepers. Tour buses. Andrew Ferguson, chair of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, also weighed in on Nebraskas actions this week, praising Hilgers for doing incredible work for the people of Nebraska and the whole country. Very proud to partner with him to protect competition in our markets! Ferguson wrote on X. Hilgers said the nations economy depends on diesel-powered semitrucks, which he described as critical to keeping costs low for consumers and supplying rural America. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That industry has been under assault by California, Hilgers said Monday. Todays victory ensures that the availability and costs of those trucks will be dictated by market forces, not unelected bureaucrats in another state. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Nebraska, speaks during a press conference after a visit to Saunders County by Trump Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Aug. 9, 2025. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) OMAHA President Donald Trump will have a moment in Fridays Alaska summit to show the world he sees Russian President Vladimir Putin for who he is and not how Trump might want him to be, Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Don Bacon says. Putin is the expansionist leader of an American adversary who wants to advance on Europe like one of his idols, Peter the Great, Bacon said, not an ally to American interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But to see things clearly, Europe and the world need Trump to respond like he has more recently and be the version of himself who recognizes the nighttime bombings of Ukrainian cities by Putin and not the one who viewed Putin as a friend, Bacon said. History in national defense Bacon, a retired Air Force brigadier general who served during the Cold War and leads the House Baltic Caucus, is a longtime hawk on Ukraine, having argued that both Trump and the Biden administration have moved too slowly in arming Ukraines defense against Russian invasion. He oversaw the 55th Wing at Nebraskas Offutt Air Force Base, which is home to U.S. Strategic Command. An Air Force jet lands at Offutt Air Force Base in 2022. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner) The Omaha-area congressman is one of the few House Republicans willing to criticize Trump and a rare military veteran in Congress who has pushed Trump on national security issues. He has gotten more direct since announcing his intention to retire and not run again in 2026. We need to see a President Trump that is the President Trump of the past month, not the Trump of the first seven months, Bacon said in an interview with Nebraska Examiner on Thursday. A lot of us who care about Ukraine worry that hell go back to where there seems to be a blind spot toward Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bacon said the president must head clear-eyed into his meeting with Putin about what the former Soviet and Russian spy really wants: expansion back to Russias imperialist borders from 300 years ago under Czar Peter the Great, including taking over the Baltic states. Russian perspective vs. Ukrainian independence Russia considers Ukraine a key part of its territory, and would prefer a vassal state to an independent one, Bacon said. Thats a reality most Ukrainian civilians and the bulk of its elected leadership oppose. The people of Ukraine have said they prefer to align with Europe. U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images) Bacon says the president should speak from a place of moral clarity about the differences between the actions of Russia and Ukraine. Russia invaded a sovereign country, hitting civilian targets, he said, and Ukraine is trying to expel them. One is an invader, and one is a victim, Bacon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin and his defenders argue Russia had no choice but to attack Ukraine out of fear Ukraine might join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. But Bacon says no serious country was prepared to let Ukraine join NATO out of fear of provoking the Russians. But war came anyway, he said. Trump, Bacon said, should consider the reminders from First Lady Melania Trump about the civilians in Ukraine who go to bed each night worried about what missiles or bombs might drop, because Putin sends them in spite of Trumps calls for a cease fire. Trump has argued that the first lady is part of why he has changed his tone on the war, a shift Bacon has praised. Bacon wants Trump to remember land swaps in Europe have failed to keep the peace. The British and French swapped Czechoslovakian land in 1938 with Adolf Hitler, seeking what the British called peace for our time. Soon after, Hitler invaded Czechoslovakia and Poland, and World War II ensued. Trump does not want to become Neville Chamberlain, Part 2, Bacon said, referencing the former British prime minister often blamed for trying appeasement. Eastern Europe vulnerable Much of the rest of Eastern Europe is vulnerable to potential Russian aggression, Bacon said, and if parts of Eastern Europe fall, the price of preserving the rest gets higher. NATO countries would likely get attacked, he said. Ukrainians demonstrate outside Downing Street against the recent invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, in London. Russia began a large-scale attack on Ukraine the day before, with explosions reported in multiple cities and far outside the restive eastern regions held by Russian-backed rebels. (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images) If Ukraine falls, I would put my life savings that Moldovia will be taken over immediately, Bacon said. Thats another bordering country with Romania. I think that Georgia and Azerbaijan are very vulnerable. The Baltics are threatened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, under Putin and his predecessors, has attacked its neighbors nine times seeking to expand its borders, he said. European nations understand this, particularly Baltic states like Poland. Putin, Bacon said, is not hiding his ambitions. He has told the world he wants to restore Russias former borders. Any country thats had dealings with Russia in the past or been occupied by them are deathly scared, Bacon said. Sometimes Trump seems oblivious to the real dangers of Russia and Putin. But I would say the past month hes been much better. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX MACY, Neb. (KCAU) Officials in Thurston County say that a body has been recovered from the Missouri River. According to the officials, the body was found south of Macy and north of Decatur. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say that the body is that of a white man in his mid-20s or 30s, approximately 250 pounds, and was found wearing a green Under Armour shirt and cargo shorts. The man has a tattoo on his neck. Officials said that they have been able to identify the man and have reached out to his family. Authorities said that they are holding off on publicly naming the man until their investigation is complete. At this time, officials do not suspect foul play. The autopsy is being handled by the Douglas County Coroners Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Now that Charlotte has seen more than six inches of rain fall over the first two weeks of August, which is much higher than usual, theres concern about water levels in local lakes and the Catawba River. Neighbors in Mecklenburg County who have experienced record flooding in the past are worried about whats next. There was a dock house, sort of similar to this, and a dock sort of similar to this, said Erik Jendresen, in his front yard right on the Catawba River. For Jendresen, theres before the Helene flooding, and after. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When we rebuilt, we got this system, which this goes down about twelve feet, said Jendresen, describing his dock. RELATED | County approves buyout grants for Riverside Drive community after Helene flooding And thats not to mention during the flooding. Jendresen says more than 100 homes were damaged or destroyed in the Riverside and Lake Drives community on the Catawba River. The Riverside Drive area flooded in 2019, 2020 and again during Helene. (courtesy of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Emergency Management) Essentially, an entire community was wiped out back in September, explained Jendresen. The flooding after Helene wasnt even the first time. MORE | Riverside Drive neighbors plan to rebuild, others selling land to county after Helene flooding When Jendresens home was destroyed by the 2019 floods. He says he was only required to build eight feet up, but its a good thing he added an extra four feet before Hurricane Helene hit. The watermark left in the aftermath of Helene shows the water came just inches from flooding his home on stilts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The few of us who are left here are very concerned about whats next, said Jendresen. Any time it rains for days and days, Jendresen worries. Riverside Drive in the days after Helene in September 2024 The first thing that goes through my mind is what is Duke doing in terms of their awareness? asked Jendresen. Duke Energy tells us they are moving water from one lake to another in the Catawba-Wateree River Basin to manage the lake and river levels. What are you guys doing differently as opposed to 2019 and Hurricane Helene? asked Queen City News Anchor Robin Kanady to Duke Energy. Very different circumstances, Helene was a historic storm, answered Ben Williamson, Duke Energy spokesperson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The utility says even though some area lakes are a foot above target level now, flooding shouldnt be a concern. Jendresen hopes theyre right. Were anxiously leaning forward and looking at hurricane season, said Jendresen. QCNEWS.COM HURRICANE HELENE COVERAGE Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. "We are in a process of change. It is very important to show the great contribution of all parts of society, but as far as I am concerned, you are pioneers," Netanyahu told the soldiers. Torah study and military service do not contradict each other, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said during a visit to the haredi Border Police combat company Avenat on Thursday. Netanyahu was accompanied by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Police Commissioner Danny Levy, and Border Guard Commander Barik Yitzhak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are in a process of change. It is very important to show the great contribution of all parts of society, but as far as I am concerned, you are pioneers," Netanyahu said." "And it is important to understand - there is no contradiction between Torah and service," he added. "We are making sure to eliminate this contradiction, and you are actually making sure to do it. You are here performing a sacred commandment - and the commandment is to ensure the perpetuity of Israel," Netanyahu concluded. Debate for haredi draft law continues MK Boaz Bismuth, the newly appointed chairman of the Knessets Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, held his first meeting discussing the haredi draft law on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On one thing we agree: we want a draft law, he said. I will search for what connects us all, he added. Additionally, several haredi men were seen stealing and tearing IDF conscription letters from a postal worker in Jerusalem's Bukharim neighborhood on Tuesday, according to Israel Police. Haredi communities have held multiple protests over the draft law, leading to multiple road closures and arrests of draft dodgers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says 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. In an interview with Israels i24 News network broadcast Tuesday, Netanyahu was asked if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Hamas militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the 7 October 2023 attack that sparked the war. Israel believes around 20 of them are alive. Netanyahu's latest comments on the ceasefire in Gaza come amid the news of a plan by Israel to possibly resettle Palestinians from Gaza to South Sudan, and as global criticism mounts over Gaza's hunger crisis. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire. Netanyahu: Israel's demands haven't changed According to reports, Arab officials last week said 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 media reported, a sign that efforts have not been abandoned after 22 months of war. Silvia Cunio mother of the hostages Ariel Cunio, left, and David Cunio, right, holds pictures of her sons, during a press conference - Salvatore Di Nolfi/' KEYSTONE / SALVATORE DI NOLFI Netanyahu in Tuesday's interview reiterated that Israels demands havent changed and that the war will end only when all hostages are returned and Hamas has surrendered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Related UN warns about starvation, malnutrition Meanwhile, the United Nations on Tuesday warned that starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at the highest levels since the war began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric reported the warning from the World Food Program and said Gazas Health Ministry told UN staff in Gaza that five people died over the last 24 hours from malnutrition and starvation. According to the UN ministry, around 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. Netanyahu is on trial in three cases, on charges of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust. He has pleaded not guilty to all three, in the storm of a case that began in 2020. The legal team of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won't be able to withstand the workload and properly represent him in his criminal trial if his hearing schedule is expanded to four days a week, Netanyahu's lawyer Amit Haddad told the presiding judges on Thursday. Hadad requested from the Jerusalem District Court Judges Rivka Friedman-Feldman, Moshe Bar-Am and Oded Shaham to meet with Netanyahu to discuss the implications of the decision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, the judges announced that starting November 2, the hearings will take place four days a week. Netanyahu will testify three days of the week, while on the fourth, the court will hear testimonies from other witnesses brought forward by the defense. The judges said the decision was made due to the need to move the case along. Netanyahu is on trial in three cases, on charges of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust. He has pleaded not guilty to all three, in the storm of a case that began in 2020. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a Christian Conference in Jerusalem, on April 27, 2025 (credit: Chaim Goldberg/Flash90) The hearings paused when the courts went on summer recess on July 21 - they are scheduled to return on September 5. The trial is due to resume on September 6, with the expanded court appearances kicking in about a month later, after the High Holy Days. Tel Aviv District Court The judges requested that authorities examine the possibility of moving the hearings from the Tel Aviv District Court to the Beit Shemesh District Court. The judges had been asked to move the hearings to Tel Aviv when Netanyahu began testifying, due to security concerns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The defense team is already spread thin and includes only three lawyers... This will severely harm the defense of the prime minister as well as the legal team on a personal level, said Hadad. So far, Netanyahu has testified six times in the cross-examination section of the trial. The direct examination took 35 sessions to complete. NEVADA, Mo. Nevadas animal shelter that still has damage from flood waters is unsure where the animals permanent home will be. Crews came into in the animal shelter and ripped apart all of the walls that had bad water damage from the flooding. Right now the animals are still housed in the same location, but the shelter is closed as the lobby and other rooms are under repairs. The city is working with engineers to brainstorm options that will prevent future flooding incidents. Nevada Police Chief Casey Crane says they are short-lived events and it is a lot of rain in a small amount of time. Solutions the city is considering with engineers are lifting the building or finding a way to slow down the water. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant afford to keep doing this not only for animals but for the staff that work here. It was extremely traumatic to go through something like this and go through it twice so we need to get it right, said Crane. This location site was the only one approved by the Nevada City Council with feedback from residents. Right now, the shelter is not taking in any more animals due to insufficient space will remain such way until they can find a permanent solution. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. On 13 August Argentinas government led by Presidentannounced a 7.5% salary rise for staff at national universities between September and November, amid a week-long strike at public universities. End of preview - This article contains approximately 407 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options (The Center Square) Nevadas top two ranking Assembly Democrats will exit their offices when the term ends, leaving a power void in the Legislature's lower chamber. The announcements come in the wake of a presidential election that saw Nevadans break a four-time Democratic streak and vote Republican President Donald Trump into office. Democrats control a majority in the state Assembly and Senate, but lack enough seats to override vetoes by Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After careful reflection, Ive decided not to seek re-election to District 41, Assembly Leader Sandra Jauregui, D-Las Vegas, said in a statement. Im incredibly proud of what my colleagues and I have accomplished together from strengthening our gun safety laws, investing in affordable housing to creating good-paying jobs. I am grateful for the trust the voters placed in me over the past five election cycles, added Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager, also D-Las Vegas, in the same statement by the Nevada Assembly Democratic Caucus. I am proud of all that we were able to accomplish together. The two state political leaders will have each served 10 years in office when they leave at the end of 2026. Before their victories in 2016, neither had held a public office. They rose to majority leader and speaker in 2023. The Assembly leadership shake-up adds to existing political uncertainty in the Silver State, which voted to elect a Republican presidential candidate in 2024, for the first time since the state helped to re-elect George W. Bush in 2004. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Lombardo, meanwhile, received mixed results in a recent poll that said only 38% of people rated his time in office as good or excellent. His biggest opponent, Attorney General Aaron Ford, a Democrat running for governor, has received widespread support from state Democrats. Yeager and Jauregui told the Nevada Independent that their decision to leave office was for personal reasons. Jauregui said she was looking to recharge, and Yeager cited the assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman, his friend and a fellow Democrat. But both lawmakers left the door open for future government positions. Jauregui said she imagined a long career in politics, and Yeager said he was considering a 2026 election run for state treasurer. I am committed to continuing to contribute to this great state that has given me so much, said Yeager in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though my time in the Legislature is ending, [I] will continue to find opportunities to serve Nevadans and fight for the values we share, said Jauregui. Both of the legislators' districts are in the Democratic heart of Nevada, Las Vegas. Twenty-seven of the 42 current state Assembly members are Democrats. Nevada Assembly members receive $130 per day in session, equivalent to less than $25,000 for the regular 180-day session, which takes place once every two years. The next Assembly session kicks off in February 2027, although special sessions for lawmakers to vote on specific bills are expected to take place before then. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A driver is facing numerous charges, including DUI, after allegedly crashing into a Nevada State Police Highway Patrol cruiser and injuring the trooper inside who was investigating another crash. The trooper was investigating a two-car injury crash around 11:45 p.m. on Interstate 15 southbound, north of the 215 Southern Beltway, when another car struck the troopers patrol vehicle and then drove off, a department spokesperson said. Police later located the driver, whom the 8 News Now Investigators first identified as Mark Guyot, 51. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guyot faces 12 charges, including felony hit-and-run, DUI and having an open container in the car, records said. Other charges include operating an unsafe vehicle, failing to give aid at the scene of a crash, and failing to decrease his speed or use due care because he allegedly did not slow down approaching the crash site, which also happened to be near a construction zone, records said. Nevada State Police said the trooper was taken to a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. He was treated and released and will be returning to duty. In court on Wednesday, Las Vegas Justice Court Judge Suzan Baucum set bail at $100,000. Guyot posted bond and was due in court next week. In 2023, an impaired driver hit and killed two state troopers investigating a second impaired driver. That driver also drove off and was serving a 16-40-year sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. Editor's note: This story contains some content that readers may find disturbing. WAUPACA A nearly monthlong Waupaca County homicide trial ended Aug. 11 without the closure two families have spent the last 33 years searching for. After three and a half days of deliberation, a jury found Tony Haase, 54, of Weyauwega, not guilty of the 1992 murders of 23-year-old Tanna Togstad and 35-year-old Timothy Mumbrue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The verdict came as a shock to some in the courtroom. Tanna Togstad's older brother, Richard Togstad, who was present for every day of the trial, said he "never in a million years" thought Haase would walk free. We are completely devastated," Richard Togstad said. "I dont even know how a jury, with the evidence that we had, could come up with the verdict they did. The trial involved 14 days of testimony, and the evidence prosecutors presented against Haase included a DNA profile obtained from the scene of the crime that they say matched Haase's, a bloody handprint on a door that matched Haase's prints, and a confession to investigators in which Haase said he recalled "snippets" of memories of going to Togstad's home the night they were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defense attorneys countered with arguments that the DNA profile was not accurate, that evidence was mishandled by investigators, and that Haase's confession of supposed repressed memories was a result of misleading interrogation tactics. While the acquittal was heartbreaking for some people in the courtroom, others were relieved, believing an innocent man narrowly avoided getting wrongfully sent to spend the rest of his life in prison. John Birdsall, one of Haase's two defense attorneys, said despite the evidence against Haase appearing strong on the surface, prosecutors had "a highly questionable case right from the start." He said he feels terrible for Togstad's and Mumbrue's family, who he believes were given a wrongful sense of confidence that the killer had been caught. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think they were deceived into thinking that Tony is the guy, and they were just shown that that is not the case," Birdsall said. "They have to be very, very frustrated, and I dont blame them, because if I was in their shoes, I would want closure too. Haase cannot be tried again for the homicides. Waupaca County District Attorney Kat Turner said at this point, she does not believe Haase can be charged with anything tied to the murders that is not outside the statute of limitations. Tanna Togstad Despite evidence, jury determined enough reasonable doubt existed for acquittal Haase's acquittal came exactly three years to the day since he was contacted by investigators for questioning. On Aug. 11, 2022 investigators showed up to Waupaca Foundry, where Haase worked. They made contact with Haase, who then willingly went with them to the Waupaca County Sheriff's Office to talk, attorneys said at trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What followed was an hours-long interrogation, during which Haase admitted to the murders, prosecutors say. During the interrogation, Haase told investigators his father and Togstad's father had been friends, and that when Haase was around 7 years old, his father died in a snowmobiling accident that Togstad's father was involved in. Haase told investigators he recalled drinking at multiple bars alone the night of March 20, 1992, then thinking about the accident that killed his father as he went to Togstad's house in a "drunken stupor," according to a criminal complaint. "This is gonna sound stupid, but I never knew I did it," Haase said to investigators in a clip from the interrogation video. Haase said that when he first heard reports about the murders in 1992, he remembered being "afraid he was involved," according to a criminal complaint. He told investigators that over the years he has had "snippets of memories" that he attributed to the murders, including getting into a "scuffle" with Mumbrue, then punching and stabbing Togstad, the complaint says. Timothy Mumbrue Togstad and Mumbrue, along with Togstad's dog, Scruffy, were found dead inside Togstad's house on March 22, 1992. Mumbrue had suffered close to 27 stab wounds all over his body, including one that went through his skull something that a forensic pathologist who testified at trial said had never seen before in his more than 20 years as an autopsy examiner, Waupaca County District Attorney Kat Turner said during the prosecution's closing argument. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scruffy has been stabbed multiple times as well. Togstad had a single stab wound to her chest, and had been sexually assaulted, prosecutors said. It was the male DNA obtained from Togstad's body that led investigators to Haase three decades later. During the course of the 30-plus-year investigation which Turner said she avoids referring to as a "cold case," since there were always investigators assigned to it Haase was identified as a possible suspect. In July 2022, investigators staged a traffic stop, at which time they had Haase sign a warning ticket and obtained his DNA from the pen he used. From that, they determined Haase's DNA was a match. Prosecutors said the statistical probability of randomly selecting someone else with that same DNA profile is "one in 281 quintillion." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout the trial, defense attorneys argued that the DNA evidence was flawed, and that initial tests on the DNA swabs conducted in the 1990s destroyed the samples enough that the profile investigators came up with years later was not credible. They also argued that Haase gave a false confession, forced by deceptive interrogation tactics. The real killer, defense attorneys said, was not Haase, but one of his relatives a man who died in 1995 but who had a history of killing dogs and cats and threatening to kill former wives. Although that man's name was brought up repeatedly at trial, the Appleton Post-Crescent is not naming him because he was never charged in connection with the homicides. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the trial, defense attorneys also discussed an investigative tip that was considered throughout the decades-long investigation that suggested three men committed the murders. Attorneys presented evidence that Haase's relative could have been one of those three. One of the other two men named by attorneys, Glendon Gouker, told investigators around 2013 that he was in involved in the Togstad-Mumbrue killings, and that two other men were involved as well. Gouker was convicted in Waupaca County in 2014 with the 1990 rape of a woman in Iola. The year prior, he was convicted of murdering a 19-year-old man and raping the man's girlfriend in Oklahoma, a case for which he was given four consecutive life sentences. Gouker's confession matched an investigative tip that three men went to kill Mumbrue when he did not purposely lose an event at a rodeo, Birdsall said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors said Gouker was considered a person of interest during the investigation, but ultimately ruled out. Assistant Attorney General Amy Ohtani said Gouker had a history of sending police on "wild good chases," and gave a false confession about the Togstad-Mumbrue homicides in an effort to avoid the death penalty in Oklahoma. At trial, defense attorneys emphasized that the horrible violence of the murders did not logically make sense to have been committed by Haase, who had lived a quiet life in Weyauwega for the past three decades, has no criminal record and is described as a gentle man with a calm demeanor by those who know him, Birdsall said. During the trial's opening statements and closing arguments, Birdsall reminded the jury that they could not convict Haase if they found any reasonable doubt existed. Birdsall told The Post-Crescent he was appreciative of the attentive jury who took multiple days to thoroughly deliberate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I was grateful, really, that these jurors took their oath so seriously, and really held the state up to the burden that theyre supposed to. That doesnt happen with every jury," he said. Waupaca County District Attorney Kat Turner listens as Assistant Attorney General Amy Ohtani gives an opening statement for the prosecution as Tony Haase, 54, of Weyauwega appears in court during his trial Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Waupaca County Courthouse in Waupaca, Wisconsin. Haase is accused of murdering 23-year-old Tanna Togstad and 35-year-old Timothy Mumbrue in 1992. He was arrested in 2022, after DNA obtained during a traffic stop linked him to the crime scene. Decades-old case presented challenges for prosectors, district attorney says Turner, who prosecuted the case along with Ohtani from the Attorney General's Office, said she was surprised by the not guilty verdict. The fact that the investigation spanned more than three decades presented some challenges for the prosecution, Turner said. For one, some of they key people involved in the investigation, including several investigators and the original autopsy examiner, have since died. Prosecutors had to call a forensic pathologist as an expert witness to testify based on his review the original autopsy notes, which introduces more room for doubt about details than if the original autopsy examiner were able to testify for themself. Turner also said some pretrial rulings about what evidence was admissible at trial limited prosecutors' ability to present the full picture of evidence. "I don't think there's an understanding by the general public that what gets presented to the jury is often a highly curated and heavily redacted version of the quote-unquote facts," she said. "Often there are many facts that we are prohibited by court order from presenting." RELATED: 'Tony's life is in your hands': Jury deliberates in Waupaca County 1992 double murder trial Among the evidence not allowed to be presented at trial was DNA evidence that Haase's relative was excluded as a possible contributor of the DNA sample obtained from the crime scene. Haase's relative's body was exhumed for DNA evidence collection in June. However, defense attorneys argued they did not have adequate time to prepare a response to prosecutor's conclusion about DNA findings. Waupaca County Circuit Court Judge Raymond Huber agreed and prohibited any discussion about that DNA finding at trial. "I obviously dont know, but I suspect that there was a level of uncertainty that was created by the judges pretrial decisions to withhold that evidence from the jury that likely created doubt in their minds," Turner said. Richard Togstad said he finds no fault with prosecutors' work at trial for the jury's not guilty verdict. Ultimately, he said, the jury simply sided with the defense. Still, Turner said she wonders what else prosecutors could have done. "I hope some of the jurors will reach out, because I would like to know what I could have done differently," Turner said. Contact Kelli Arseneau at 920-213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @ArseneauKelli. This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Tony Haase not guilty in Togstad, Mumbrue murder, verdict surprises family When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Researchers found teeth belonging to ancient hominins at the Ledi-Geraru archaeological site in Ethiopia. . | Credit: Villmoare Roughly 2.6 million-year-old fossilized teeth found in Ethiopia might belong to a previously unknown early human relative, researchers say. The teeth are from a species of Australopithecus, the genus that includes Lucy (A. afarensis). But these newly discovered teeth don't appear to belong to any known species of Australopithecus, according to a new study published in the journal Nature on Wednesday (Aug. 13). Advertisement Advertisement What's more, at the same site the researchers found extremely old teeth from Homo, the genus that includes modern humans ( Homo sapiens ). These teeth may belong to the oldest known Homo species on record, which scientists haven't yet named, the study found. These new discoveries show that at least two lineages of early hominins a group that includes humans and our closest relatives coexisted in the same region around 2.6 million years ago, the researchers said. Discoveries at Ledi-Geraru archaeological site The researchers found the teeth at the Ledi-Geraru archaeological site in northeastern Ethiopia, which is known for earlier groundbreaking discoveries: a 2.8 million-year-old jawbone that's the oldest known human specimen , as well as some of the oldest known stone tools made by hominins, which date to 2.6 million years ago. Researchers uncover fossilized hominin teeth at Ledi-Geraru, Ethiopia. | Credit: Rector Paleontologists and archaeologists hypothesize that the region was an open and arid grassy plain during this period, based on grass-eating animal fossils from that time. The area offered resources Homo and Australopithecus could use, Frances Forrest , an archaeologist at Fairfield University in Connecticut who was not involved with the new research, told Live Science in an email. Grasslands and rivers would have provided water to drink, plants to eat and large animals to hunt. Advertisement Advertisement Related: 'Huge surprise' reveals how some humans left Africa 50,000 years ago But the unusually rich fossil record in this area could also be because of excellent preservation of remains, due to volcanic eruptions, for example not necessarily that this was a hominin hotspot, Forrest said. Thirteen fossilized teeth collected at Ledi-Geraru. The LD 750 and 760 teeth are from an unidentified species of Australopithecus, and the LD 302 and AS 100 teeth are from an early Homo species. | Credit: Villmoare Australopithecus and Homo teeth In the new study, the researchers used layers of volcanic ash above and below the newly discovered fossils to determine their age. Of the 13 teeth discovered, the team found 10 are 2.63 million years old and belonged to an unidentified species of Australopithecus, which for now the researchers are calling the Ledi-Geraru Australopithecus. Previously, researchers had found remains in the region from A. afarensis and Australopithecus garhi . But the newfound teeth look different from the teeth of those species. "It doesn't match any of these, so it could be a new species," study co-author Kaye Reed , a paleoecologist at Arizona State University, told Live Science. Advertisement Advertisement However, the research team hasn't officially named it as a newly identified species because the teeth don't have any especially unique features. "In the fossil record, researchers usually define a new species by finding anatomical traits that consistently differ from those of known species," Forrest said, adding that the evidence from this discovery is too limited to define a new species. The researchers also identified two teeth that are 2.59 million years old, and one that is 2.78 million years old, all belonging to the genus Homo, which Reed believes are from the same species as the oldest known Homo specimen the jawbone discovered in Ledi-Geraru although this hasn't been confirmed. Image 1 of 2 Study authors J. Ramon Arrowsmith and Christopher J. Campisano examine the geology of the area. Study authors J. Ramon Arrowsmith and Christopher J. Campisano examine the geology of the area near the new fossils. Advertisement Advertisement Image 2 of 2 An aerial view of the Ledi-Geraru excavation site. An aerial view of the Ledi-Geraru excavation site, home of the newly discovered fossilized teeth, and where the oldest known Homo specimen has been uncovered. The new discovery means at least three hominin species were living in this region of Ethiopia before 2.5 million years ago: the Homo and Australopithecus species these teeth belong to, as well as A. garhi. At the same time, A. africanus lived in South Africa, and Paranthropus, another hominin genus, lived in what is now Kenya, Tanzania and southern Ethiopia. This evolutionary trial-and-error within the extended hominin family is why humans' evolutionary tree is considered "bushy" rather than linear. Advertisement Advertisement "It has become clear over the last decade or so that during most of our evolutionary history there have been multiple species of human relatives that existed at the same time," John Hawks , an anthropologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison who was not involved in the new research, told Live Science. "The new paper tells us this is happening in Ethiopia [in] a really interesting time frame, because it's maybe the earliest population of our genus Homo." Next steps The research team is now studying the enamel on the newfound teeth, as their chemistry can reveal what these species were eating. This may shed light on whether these hominins were eating the same things and competing for similar resources. "Right now, we can say very little with certainty about direct interaction between Australopithecus and Homo," Forrest said. "We know that both genera sometimes overlapped in time and space, but there is no behavioral evidence linking the two." RELATED STORIES Advertisement Advertisement 300,000-year-old teeth from China may be evidence that humans and Homo erectus interbred, according to new study 78,000-year-old footprints from Neanderthal man, child and toddler discovered on beach in Portugal Stunning facial reconstructions of 'hobbit,' Neanderthal and Homo erectus bring human relatives to life Chimpanzees and gorillas live in some of the same forests, Hawks pointed out, but they're mostly geographically separated from each other, not living side by side. The fact these early hominins may have lived closer together than primates typically do now is interesting, Hawks said. "They probably weren't eating the same things," Reed noted. "But right now we don't really know." The researchers are also searching for more information and fossils at the site. "Everything we find is a piece in the puzzle of human evolution," Reed said. Human evolution quiz: What do you know about Homo sapiens? Services, operations and capital planning for the Newark Public Library will not be impacted while its leaders search for an interim executive director after firing Christian Zabriskie from the librarys top post, its board vice president said Thursday All of that is in the very capable hands of the leadership team, Rosemary Steinbaum, vice president of the Board of Trustees, told NJ Advance Media. The community and our partners in the community are our first concern. Steinbaum said she and others were deeply engaged in the search for interim and permanent replacements for Zabriskie, who was named to the $180,000 post in July 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The leadership team at the library has stepped up in extraordinary ways, collaborating, cooperating with each other, with board, with the staff, said Steinbaum, adding that no timeframe had been set naming an interim or new permanent director. The board voted 5-0 with three abstentions and one absence during a brief special meeting last week held for the sole purpose of terminating Zabriskies tenure after two years. Executive Director Christian Zabriskie is hereby being provided 90 days notice of termination effective Nov. 6th, 2025, the boards president, Aisha Cooper, read from a resolution the board then approved. Effective immediately, Mr. Zabriskie is being placed on paid administrative leave and shall not take any official action on behalf of the Newark Public Library. A recording of the three-minute public portion of the meeting during which trustees voted was posted on the librarys Facebook page. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The vote was reported Tuesday by TapInto. No one said why Zabriskie was being let go, and Cooper did not respond to requests for comment this week. Zabriskie sat silently at the dais with the trustees without saying a word, then left without saying goodbye. He could not be reached for comment. Centered around its 1901 Main Branch opposite Harriet Tubman Square, the library system consists of seven locations, providing books, magazines and other publications for on-site and on loan use, computers and internet access, plus educational programming, public forums, screenings and art and historic exhibitions for residents of the states largest city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The library also provides referrals for employment and social services, and serves as a daytime refuge for unhoused residents. Scholars are drawn from outside Newark to the Philip Roth Room in the Main Branch, which houses the acclaimed novelist and Newark natives personal collection of books and belongings. Zabriskies tenure in Newark included presiding over creation of resource rooms for people with hearing and visual impairments, a celebration of the citys LGBTQ+ community, and the librarys role in a citywide literacy program announced by Mayor Ras J. Baraka two weeks after Zabriskie was hired. Trustees had expressed frustration with Zabriskies performance in recent months, including what they saw as a lack of transparency on an expansion project at the Springfield Branch, and failure to provide advance copies of a new labor contract before the July meeting they were asked to approve it, TapInto reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Union employees generated unflattering headlines for the library last fall, with public appeals to the City Council for additional funds during Newarks 2024 municipal budget process. Union members complained about low pay, staff vacancies, and crumbling and closed branches. At the councils urging, the administration came up with another $1 million, bringing the citys contribution last year to $12 million, or about 70% of the librarys $17 million annual budget. The rest comes mainly from grants, individual and corporate donations. Zabriskie, who previously directed the Onondaga County Library in upstate New York, was Newarks 13th director since its public library was created in 1889, built on what had been a private collection of the Newark Library Association dating back to 1847. And while the length of Zabriskies time in charge is well below the 10.5-year average for the position, he was the fourth director to serve in the post since the mayor took office in 2014 and the third one hired under Baraka. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the librarys bylaws, the executive director is hired and fired by the board of trustees. Newarks mayor is an ex-officio member of the board who appoints seven of the boards nine members and can designate an eighth trustee to serve as his or her representative. The ninth trustee is a designee of the Newark superintendent of schools, who, like the mayor, also has a seat on the board by right of his position. The five trustees who vote to remove Zabriskie were Cooper and Steinbaum, board treasurer Jason Ballard, Robert J. Austin ll, and Miguel Rodriguez. The three who abstained were Sharnee Brown, Lauren Wells, and Javier Nazario, Leons designee. The absent trustee was Jacqueline Quiles, Barakas designee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spokespeople for the mayor and superintendent did not say whether their boss supported Zabriskies termination. Outgoing Newark Public Library Executive Director Christian Zabrinskie, at left, closed the book on his 2-year tenure during an Aug. 8, 2025 meeting, when the library Board of Trustees voted to place him on paid leave immediately and fire him effective Nov. 6. Nobody knows Jersey better than N.J.com. Sign up to get breaking news alerts straight to your inbox. Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Thursday that he is moving forward with putting proposed new congressional maps for the state on the ballot in a Nov. 4 special election in an attempt to counter mid-decade redistricting being pushed by Republicans in Texas. "I know they say 'Don't mess with Texas.' Well, don't mess with the great Golden State," Newsom said at a news conference, flanked by Democratic members of Congress and California union leaders. "We're doing this in reaction to a president of the United States that called a sitting governor of the state of Texas and said, 'Find me five seats,'" he added later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of Thursday's event, Newsom and his media team had been trolling President Donald Trump on social media, posting mocking messages in all capital letters, appearing to mimic Trump's own social media posts. MORE: Newsom says California to draw congressional maps to 'END TRUMP PRESIDENCY' In his remarks, Newsom said the state government will affirm its commitment to the state's independent redistricting commission after the 2030 census, "but we're asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028 and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to what's happening in Texas and we'll do so in a way that also affirms our desire as a state to level the playing field all across the United States." Mike Blake/Reuters - PHOTO: California Governor Gavin Newsom speaks as he announces the redrawing of California's congressional maps, calling on voters to approve a ballot measure in Los Angeles, Calif. August 14, 2025. In a campaign video released concurrently with his announcement, Newsom framed the issue in stark terms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is a five-alarm fire for democracy in the United States of America. Donald Trump, who is trying to light a torch on democracy, continues to try to rig the election," Newsom says in the video. Immigration arrest near Newsom speech As the governor was speaking Thursday, federal agents appeared to be conducting an immigration enforcement operation outside of the venue. KABC - PHOTO: Federal agents gather on the street outside the venue where California Governor Gavin Newsom spoke about the redrawing of California's congressional maps before moving to a federal building in Los Angeles, Calif., August 14, 2025. "Where are we? We are at Democracy Center and right outside at this exact moment? There are dozens and dozens of ICE agents ... You think it's coincidental?" Newsom said, referring to the Democracy Center at the Japanese American National Museum in downtown Los Angeles where he was delivering his remarks. "Donald Trump and his minions, [border czar] Tom Homan, tough guy, clearly decided, coincidentally or not, that this was a location to advance ICE arrests." Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said there was "no way" the operation was a coincidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This was widely publicized that the governor and many of our elected officials were having a press conference here to talk about redistricting. And they decided they were going to come and thumb their nose in front of the governor's face," she said. "Why would you do that? It's unbelievably disrespectful. It's a provocative act. They're talking about disorder in Los Angeles and they are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now. This is just completely unacceptable." U.S. Customs and Border Protection official Gregory Bovino told reporters that CBP was conducting routine "roving patrols" and made an arrest outside of the venue where Newsom was speaking, but pushed back against insinuations that the location had been chosen for arrests because the governor was holding an event. Asked if it is a coincidence that CBP made arrests right outside of Newsom's presser, Bovino said, "Breaking the law is not coincidental. Breaking the law is breaking the law. There's no coincidence in breaking the law. So when they break the law, you can expect that you're probably going to get arrested. MORE: Obama rallies Texas Democrats who left state to block GOP redistricting plan What will California's new maps look like? The California legislature will now have to pass legislation to put the maps on the ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters after the announcement, Newsom did not address what the proposed congressional maps would look like -- only saying that they would be presented in the next few days. He said state legislators would introduce bills on Monday to put the special election in motion and said he is confident they'll have the two thirds of legislators needed to approve the new maps. Amid questions from critics about transparency, Newsom claimed the process in California is more transparent than how Texas has handled redistricting, in part because voters will get to weigh in during the special election. He described the mid-decade redistricting effort as a "temporary" measure and said that the state's independent commission that normally redraws congressional maps would continue its work in 2030. "We need to disabuse ourselves of the way things have been done," Newsom said in his public remarks, adding, "It's not good enough to just hold hands, have a candlelight vigil and talk about the way the world should be. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire, and we've got to be held to a higher level of accountability." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even as California is moving forward with the special election, Newsom said the state's plans for mid-decade redistricting plans would be halted if Republican-run states considering redistricting don't move forward with redrawing their own maps. "This does not go forward -- I want to remind everybody -- unless one of these other states move forward," Newsom told reporters after the event. "There's still an exit ramp -- not just Texas, but Missouri, as I mentioned, or Florida, Indiana, these other states that are considering doing the unprecedented, rigging their elections with midterm redistricting. So we're hopeful they don't move forward. If that's the case, this effort will not be necessary. But we're not waiting," he said. Republicans are criticizing Newsom's move as political. U.S. Rep. Kevin Kiley, a Republican congressman from California, who has proposed a bill that would ban mid-decade redistricting, wrote on X on Thursday afternoon: "We will not let Gavin Newsom destroy democracy in California." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. James Gallagher, the California Assembly Republican Leader, wrote on X: "Drawing maps in the dark with political consultants and likely politicians' input and influence and then giving 5 days notice for public input on maps that have already been decided is the opposite of transparency. #Gavinmandering" In a statement to ABC News, Andrew Mahaleris, a spokesperson for Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, criticized California's current breakdown of congressional districts -- where nine of 52 congressional seats are held by Republicans -- and said of Newsom's move, "This is nothing more than political posturing for his 2028 pipe dream." "Gavin Newsom's latest stunt has nothing to do with Californians and everything to do with consolidating radical Democrat power, silencing California voters, and propping up his pathetic 2028 presidential pipe dream," National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Christian Martinez said in a statement ahead of the press conference. "Newsom's made it clear: he'll shred California's Constitution and trample over democracy -- running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority," Martinez said in the statement. As California Governor Gavin Newsom was verbally bashing President Donald Trump in a Los Angeles auditorium Thursday afternoon, Border Patrol agents swarmed outside and made at least one arrest. News video showed a group of agents in tactical gear as someone wearing handcuffs was escorted through the crowd. Newsom acknowledged the law enforcement presence during a speech he was giving inside the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center in Little Tokyo, Right outside, at this exact moment, dozens and dozens of ICE agents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Donald Trump, you think its coincidental? Donald Trumps minions, [border czar] Tom Homan, decided this was a location theyd advance, the governor said. He then referenced a phrase from Senator Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and added, We will punch back." As California Governor Gavin Newsom was verbally bashing President Donald Trump in a Los Angeles auditorium, Border Patrol agents swarmed outside and made at least one arrest (Mario Tama/Getty Images) Border Patrol Sector Commander Gregory Bovino told NBC4 Los Angeles while the agency was conducting immigration enforcement patrols, it detained one person, who he claimed was in the country illegally. Bovino told Fox 11 Los Angeles right after the arrest, Were here making Los Angeles a safer place since we wont have politicians that will do that, we do that ourselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following his speech, Newsom said of the agents outside, I think it's pretty sick and pathetic. They chose the time, manner, and place to send their district director outside right when we're about to have this press conference, that everything you know about Donald Trump's America...about the authoritarian tendencies of the President, he told reporters. Newsom and Trump have ramped up insults against each other after the president deployed about 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June to quell mass protests against his mass migrant deportation efforts. The governor went as far as to sue the Trump administration over the National Guards deployment. A federal judge conducted a three-day trial this week to determine if the deployment is lawful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The judge is yet to make a ruling. Some 250 National Guard troops remain in Los Angeles, the Associated Press recently reported, citing the Pentagon. Customs and Border Patrol agents stand outside an armored vehicle near MacArthur Park in Los Angeles on July 7 (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images) Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was fired up over the federal agents patrol Thursday, telling reporters, There is no way this was a coincidence. This was widely publicized that the governor and many of our other elected officials were having a press conference here to talk about redistricting, and they decided they were gonna come and thumb their nose in front of the governors face, she said. Bass called the move unbelievably disrespectful and provocative. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre talking about disorder in Los Angeles, and they are the source of the disorder in Los Angeles right now, she said. There was no danger here. There was no need to detain anyone here. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was fired up over the federal agents patrol Thursday, calling it, 'unbelievably disrespectful' (Mario Tama/Getty Images) Newsom and other Democratic leaders announced Thursday they will continue with a plan to redraw congressional maps in their favor. With the new maps, the Democrats hope to gain five more House seats in the 2026 election. Newsom called for a special election on November 4, so voters can decide on the new maps. State lawmakers plan to declare the special election next week, per the Associated Press. The move is in response to a Texas Republican effort to pick up five more seats, which Trump recently told CNBC they are entitled to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following Newsoms speech, Senator Schiff wrote on X, Dear Donald, and shared an image of the California flag, which displays the famous grizzly bear, with altered text that reads, Dont Poke The Bear. Newsom said Thursday, 'Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back' (Apu Gomes/Getty Images) This is a developing story... Gov. Gavin Newsom formally kicked off his push Thursday to redraw Californias congressional maps in response to a Republican-led effort in Texas, setting up the next stage of his fight against both the Trump administration and a coalition of gerrymandering opponents within the state.. As Newsom and his allies spoke, immigration agents made arrests outside the downtown Los Angeles venue. You think its coincidental? Newsom said. Wake up, America. This is a serious moment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joined by labor leaders and members of Congress, the governor argued Democrats must override the states independent redistricting commission to block President Donald Trumps attempt to push through a GOP-friendly redrawing of US House maps in Texas and other conservative-led states. He doesnt play by a different set of rules. He doesnt believe in the rules, Newsom said of the president. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said during an interview with Fox News Thursday that the agents were in the area because they had information that migrants accused of crimes were in the area, but said she didnt know the specifics. Our law enforcement operations are about enforcing the law not about Gavin Newsom, DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement, adding that US Customs and Border Protection patrols all areas of Los Angeles every day with over 40 teams on the ground to make LA safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unlike Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott plans to call another special session for Republicans to enact their maps as soon as enough Democrats return, Newsom and legislative leaders will need to put any new maps up for a statewide referendum in November. The legislature returns Monday to consider a measure that must pass both chambers with two-thirds of the vote to make the November ballot. Newsom said the proposed California maps would be released in the next few days. Success is not a foregone conclusion, particularly in an off-year referendum thats likely to have lower turnout than a midterm or presidential election. A patchwork coalition is already forming to oppose the effort at the ballot box. It includes former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a longtime advocate of nonpartisan redistricting; Charles Munger Jr., the son of the late billionaire Berkshire Hathaway vice chairman; various state and federal California Republicans; and the League of Women Voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opponents argue that they have a broad coalition that includes Democratic voters. More than 60% of voters in the state approved Proposition 20, the 2010 initiative that took control of congressional maps from the state legislature. Munger, who spent $12.4 million to pass Proposition 20, said he will vigorously defend the reforms he helped pass, spokesperson Amy Thoma Tan said in a statement. His previous success in passing ballot measures in California means he knows exactly what is needed to be successful, Thoma Tan said. We will have the resources necessary to make our coalition heard. People vote in the Venice neighborhood of Los Angeles, in November 2010, when California passed Proposition 20. - Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images/File Common Cause reverses itself But opponents have already lost one ally this time around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Common Cause, one of the key good government groups backing redistricting reform, said Tuesday it would not automatically condemn mid-cycle redistricting efforts that meet certain criteria, a move that could lead to the organization holding its fire against the California countermeasure. In a call with reporters Wednesday, Common Cause officials characterized the announcement as a shift in our strategic posture, not a move to abandon its long-term opposition to gerrymandering. The organization said it was too soon to say whether California will meet its six fairness criteria, which include that mid-cycle redistricting efforts should be targeted responses to gerrymandering in other states, have a set end date and involve some form of public participation. Governor Newsom will be held to the same standards and criteria as any other state who tries to engage, Common Cause president Virginia Kase Solomon said Wednesday, adding that it would be very hard to react to Californias plan before it has been released. The national groups new stance comes after the state chapter said last month that Newsom was wrong on redistricting and urged him not to pick a fight that honestly, his political party cannot and will not win. National officials said the state organizations are now on board. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our California Common Cause team understands, Kase Solomon said. We had deep discussion around why we needed to make this decision. They were engaged in the decision. Their advisory board was engaged in the decision. And so we are all on the same page. The League of Women Voters, however, will continue to push back on the governors proposal. The groups California chapter wrote Newsom and top Democratic leaders in the legislature Wednesday morning to express our strong opposition to the mid-cycle redistricting push. The group argued that even temporarily overriding the current maps would do long-term damage. We understand the urgency. Authoritarianism is not abstract; it is here, and it is dangerous. President Trump has created a constitutional crisis on multiple fronts assaults to democracy that the League is at the vanguard of fighting, wrote Dora Rose, the deputy director of the League of Women Voters of California. But the way to fight is not to abandon one of Californias greatest democratic reforms. Former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger speaks at a naturalization ceremony for new American citizens, at George Washington's Mount Vernon in in Alexandria, Virginia, on July 4. - Rod Lamkey/AP/File Schwarzenegger will be back Democrats have framed their plan as a potential check on Texas, where Republicans have introduced new maps that could eliminate as many as five Democratic seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. That may be a winning argument in an off-year election in a blue state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The choice will be between Gavin Newsom and Donald Trump, said Matt Rexroad, a Republican redistricting expert. The odds of Republicans being able to win statewide is small. That doesnt mean there wont be an expensive effort to try. The Republican-led opposition in the state is likely to be well funded, thanks to a mix of national and in-state donors. Schwarzenegger could also become a face of the coalition. The action star turned two-term California governor backed the ballot initiatives that placed the states congressional and legislative maps in the hands of the independent commission. Since leaving office in 2011, hes campaigned on behalf of independent redistricting reforms in other states, including Michigan, Colorado and Ohio. Once he learned about gerrymandering when he was governor, he decided it was evil and he was going to fight it in California, spokesperson Daniel Ketchell told CNN. And once he was done being governor in California, he decided he was going to fight it all over the country, anytime he could. Steve Hilton announces his campaign for California governor in Huntington Beach, California, on April 22. - Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images/File Another Republican threatens to sue Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate in Californias 2026 governors race, has said he will challenge the measure in court if Democrats get it on the ballot. He argued the legislature doesnt have accurate enough population data to draw new maps due to population shifts throughout the state after the pandemic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think this whole thing is just a massive distraction from what we should be focusing on, Hilton told CNN. Nevertheless, I think it is unfair to the at least 40% Republican voters in California, and so I think it needs to be stopped. Californias Republican members of Congress will also likely play a bigger role in pushing back against the redistricting. Rep. Kevin Kiley, whose district covers a broad swath of central California along the states border with Nevada, introduced legislation last week to ban mid-cycle redistricting, including the effort underway in Texas. Kiley, who is one of five Republicans whom CNN reported Democrats are targeting, said hes spoken to House Speaker Mike Johnson several times and has publicly called on him to allow a vote on his legislation when Congress returns from recess. Ive said that, as soon as we get back, I want to see a vote, and Im willing to use whatever tools I can to make that happen, Kiley said. Its unlikely Kileys measure will advance, given Trumps insistence that Republican-led states should redraw their maps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kileys best ally may be the voters who formed the independent redistricting commission in the first place. Its going to be imperative that voters get accurate information, because if they do, I am very confident voters will affirm their earlier decision that politics should not be part of the redistricting process, Kiley said. CNNs David Adkins and Michael Williams contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Gov. Gavin Newsom, Democratic lawmakers and their allies on Thursday launched a special election campaign urging California voters to approve new congressional districts to shrink the state's Republican delegation, a move that could determine control of Congress next year and stymie President Trump's agenda. The special election effort is a response to Republican-led states, notably Texas, pushing at Trump's behest to redraw their congressional maps to favor Republicans and reduce the number of Democrats in the narrowly divided U.S. House of Representatives. Speaking to a fired-up partisan crowd at the Japanese American National Museum in downtown Los Angeles, Newsom described the effort by Republicans as a desperate effort by a failed president to hold on to power by keeping Congress under his control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He doesn't play by a different set of rules he doesn't believe in the rules," Newsom said. "And as a consequence, we need to disabuse ourselves of the way things have been done. It's not good enough to just hold hands, have a candlelight vigil and talk about the way the world should be. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire." The governor was joined by California's U.S. senators, Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff; Southern California's Democrats in Congress, and union leaders who would provide the funding and volunteers for the campaign. The ballot measure, the "Election Rigging Response Act," would temporarily scrap the congressional districts enacted by the state's voter-approved independent redistricting commission. "We are ready to do whatever it takes to stop this power grab and fight back against any and all attacks on our democracy, on our students and on public education," said Erika Jones, secretary-treasurer of the California Teachers Assn., which represents 310,000 public school teachers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The gerrymandering plan in California could increase the Democratic Party's dominance in the state by making five House districts more favorable to Democrats, according to a draft map reviewed by The Times. Those changes could reduce by more than half the number of Republicans representing California in Congress. Outside the rally, which took place on a historic site where Japanese American families boarded buses to incarceration camps during World War II, Border Patrol agents gathered and arrested at least one person. Newsom told the crowd inside that he doubted it was a coincidence. Republicans criticized Newsom's effort as antidemocratic and a thinly veiled attempt to boost a future presidential campaign. The ballot measure, said Christian Martinez, spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, the campaign arm of House Republicans, is about "consolidating radical Democrat power, silencing California voters and propping up his pathetic 2028 presidential pipe dream." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Newsom's plan to work, the Democratic-led state Legislature must vote to place the measure on the Nov. 4 ballot. The final decision would be up to California voters. California should not "stoop to the same tactics as Texas," said Amy Thoma, spokesperson for the Voters First Coalition, which includes Charles Munger Jr., the son of a billionaire who bankrolled the ballot measure that created the independent commission. "Two wrongs do not make a right, and California shouldn't stoop to the same tactics as Texas. Instead, We should push other states to adopt our independent, nonpartisan commission model across the country," Thoma said. She said Munger will vigorously oppose any proposal to circumvent the independent commission. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who championed independent redistricting in California and around the country, "believes that the politicians in Texas are ripping off the people with their gerrymander and that Californias best way to respond is by standing with the people, not by stooping to their level and rigging our system against the voters," said his spokesperson, Daniel Ketchell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since voters approved independent congressional redistricting in 2010, California's districts have been drawn once per decade, after the U.S. census, by a panel split between registered Democrats, registered Republicans and voters without a party preference. The commission is not allowed to consider the partisan makeup of the districts, nor protecting incumbents, but instead looks at "communities of interest," logical geographical boundaries and the Voting Rights Act. The current map was drawn in 2021 and went into effect for the 2022 election. Newsom is pushing to suspend those district lines and put a new map tailored to favor Democrats in front of voters on Nov. 4. That plan, he has said, would have a "trigger," meaning a redrawn map would not take effect unless Texas or another GOP-led state moved forward with its own. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sara Sadhwani, who served on the redistricting commission that approved the current congressional boundaries, said that while she is deeply proud of the work she and her colleagues completed, she approved of Newsom's effort because of unprecedented threats to democracy. "Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures," Sadhwani said, citing the immigration raids, the encouragement of political violence and the use of National Guard troops in American cities. "And if that wasn't enough, we are watching executive overreach that no doubt is making our Founding Fathers turn in their graves. ... These are the hallmarks of a democracy in peril." If voters approved the ballot measure, the new maps would be in effect for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 elections, until the independent commission redraws the congressional boundaries in 2031. To meet Newsom's ambitious deadline, the Legislature would need to pass the ballot language by a two-thirds majority and send it to Newsom's desk by Aug. 22. The governor's office and legislative leaders are confident in their ability to meet this threshold in the state Assembly and Senate, where Democrats have a supermajority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom first mentioned the idea in mid-July, meaning the whole process could be done in about five weeks. Generally, redrawing the state's electoral lines and certifying a measure to appear before voters on the ballot are processes that take months, if not more than a year. In California, the gerrymandering plan taking shape behind closed doors would increase the Democratic Party's dominance in the state by making five House districts more favorable to Democrats, according to a draft map reviewed by The Times. Those changes could reduce by more than half the number of Republicans representing California in Congress. California has the nation's largest congressional delegation, with 52 members. Nine are Republicans. In the plans under discussion, a Northern California district represented by Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale) could shift to the south, shedding rural, conservative voters near the Oregon border and picking up left-leaning cities in Sonoma County. Sacramento-area Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Rocklin) would see his district shift toward the bluer center of the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plan would also add more Democrats to the Central Valley district represented by Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford), who has been a perennial target for Democrats. Southern California would see some of the biggest changes: Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Bonsall) would see his safely Republican district in San Diego County become more purple through the addition of liberal Palm Springs. And Reps. Young Kim (R-Anaheim Hills) and Ken Calvert (R-Corona) would be drawn into the same district, which could force the lawmakers to run against each other. The plan would also shore up Democrats who represent swing districts, such as Reps. Dave Min (D-Irvine) and Derek Tran (D-Orange). It could also add another district in southeast Los Angeles County, in the area that elected the first Latino member of Congress from California in modern history. A similar seat was eliminated during the 2021 redistricting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's prodding of Texas Republicans to redraw their maps has kicked off redistricting battles across the nation. That includes Florida, Ohio, Indiana and Missouri, where Republicans control the statehouse, and New York, Maryland, Illinois, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington, where Democrats are in power. Democratic lawmakers in Texas fled the state to block the Republican-led Legislature from approving a new map, preventing it from reaching the quorum necessary to approve the measure. A second special session is expected to begin Friday. The absent lawmakers are facing threats of fines, civil arrest warrants and calls for being removed from office. Times staff writer Taryn Luna in Sacramento contributed to this report. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. California will move forward with plans to redraw its congressional map in an effort to counteract possible GOP gains in Texas in next years midterm elections. California Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled plans on Thursday to alter the states boundaries to try to flip at least five seats into Democratic control next November negating the five Republican seats Texas lawmakers hope to gain with their new maps currently under consideration. The plan would require approval from California voters to amend the states constitution with a provision to change the congressional map until 2030. We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire. And weve got to be held to a higher-level accountability, Newsom said on Thursday. Were doing this in reaction to a president of the United States that called a sitting governor of the state of Texas and said, Find me five seats. Were doing it in reaction to that act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom previously warned about massive changes to the congressional landscape, sending a letter to President Donald Trump on Monday that if he did not stand down, the California governor would be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in the Golden State in retaliation. Newsom will work with other state legislators to introduce a constitutional amendment circumventing the states strict laws that prohibit map changes in the middle of a decade. The governor is expected to release the proposed map by the end of this week, and the state Legislature could meet as early as next week to approve the changes. The new map would then be voted on during a special election in November and, if approved, would stay in affect until the census is taken again in 2030. After that, the state would return to its current laws that require maps to be drawn by an independent citizens commission. That commission is made up of five Republicans, five Democrats and four voters who are not affiliated with either of the major parties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were working through a very transparent, temporary and public process, Newsom said. Were putting the maps on the ballot and were giving the power to the people. This will be the first redistricting process thats ever done that. The effort to combat Texas will require public approval, and recent polls suggest Newsom has an uphill battle ahead to get the state on board. A recent Politico/Citrin Center/Possibility Lab survey found 64% of voters support keeping the independent commission, compared to just 36% who said state lawmakers should draw the maps. Currently Republicans representatives hold nine of Californias 52 congressional seats, or 17%, while President Donald Trump won 38% of the vote in the state. Members of the California Citizens Redistricting Commission who helped redraw the district boundaries in 2020 expressed support for Newsoms plan on Thursday, with the agreement that the commission will be reinstated in 2030. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We worked collaboratively across the aisle to move forward something that could be fair and just for Californians and I couldnt be more proud of the districts in the maps that we have today. Theyre competitive, some of the most competitive seats in the nation, 2020 commission member Sara Sadhwani said. But these are extraordinary times, and extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures. Im here today to be humble, to set aside the good work of California, she added. But I do so with the expectation that this is a one-time occurrence, that this does not subvert the will of the people of California. The effort comes as Texas is poised to vote on its newly unveiled map that would create new districts in areas that Trump carried by more than 10 percentage points in the 2024 election. Most of the new districts are in heavily Hispanic areas, a crucial demographic shift that helped secure Trumps victory in November. The Texas Legislature was originally scheduled to vote on the map last week, but those efforts have so far been delayed after Democratic state lawmakers fled to blue states such as New York, Illinois and Massachusetts to block any legislative action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, some lawmakers in Congress have openly called for an end to the redistricting efforts including one Republican who introduced a bill to ban any changes before next November. Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-Calif., filed the bill last week to block any new maps from being used in the 2026 midterm elections and nullify any changes that are adopted this year. Kiley introduced the ban in response to possible changes in California, which would likely put him at risk in the Golden State. Gov. Gavin Newsom set a Nov. 4 special election Thursday to redraw Californias districting lines mid-decade, an effort to combat President Donald Trump and Gov. Greg Abbotts initiatives in Texas. His aim is to gain five U.S. House seats in 2026 to counterbalance the proposed redistricting gains in the Lone Star State. We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear district by district all across this country, the governor said during a Los Angeles press conference, standing alongside Democratic Sens. Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla, among others. More from TheWrap Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsom additionally called on other blue states to consider special motions to redistrict their own constituencies and gain more Democratic House seats, citing similar GOP efforts proposed in Missouri, Indiana, Florida and Ohio. We need to stand up not just California, other blue states need to stand up. We need to be firm, he said, later adding: This is a break-the-glass moment for our democracy, for our nation. This is about action, and thats what were doing here in California. The special election will first require two-thirds legislative approval, expected to go through next week. Newsom emphasized that putting the redistricting proposal up to a state-wide vote is precisely the opposite of the approach in Texas, where the directive is coming directly from the White House to legislatively try to jam them through against the consent of the people. Were asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028 and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to whats happening in Texas, to respond what Trump is trying to excite, Newsom said. And [we] will do so in a way that also affirms our desire as a state to level the playing field all across the United States. We believe in a national independent redistricting framework, and we believe thats the right goal and the right thing to pursue. Trump knows he'll lose so he's rigging the system. pic.twitter.com/quQR9b0ycA Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) August 14, 2025 Coinciding with the press conference Thursday, Newsoms office launched an official social media campaign in promotion of the Nov. 4 vote, encouraging Californians to vote YES. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps election rigging comes to an end now, Newsoms pinned post on X read. California wont stand by and watch Trump burn it all down. Trumps election rigging comes to an end now. California wont stand by and watch Trump burn it all down we are calling a special election to redraw our Congressional maps and defend fair representation. This is a five alarm fire for Democracy. Vote YES November 4. pic.twitter.com/7MQz6LjaG6 Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) August 14, 2025 Responding on behalf of California Republicans to the redistricting special election on Thursday, the states Republican Party Chairwoman Corrin Rankin dismissed the partisan effort as Gavin the Gaslighter overturning the will of the voters and telling you its for your own good. Gov. Newsom says this is about giving power to the people, but the people already have that power, Rankin said in a statement obtained by TheWrap. They used it to create and expand Californias independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, taking politicians out of the process so no one could rig the maps for their own gain. Now, Newsom wants to take that power back, rush through secret maps, and spend hundreds of millions so he and his friends can choose their voters instead of voters choosing their representatives. He calls it transparent and temporary but it is really a calculated power grab that dismantles the very safeguards voters put in place. The post Newsom Sets November Redistricting Vote to Combat Trumps Texas Effort: Cannot Stand Back and Watch | Video appeared first on TheWrap. California is center stage on Thursday in the national battle over congressional redistricting ahead of next year's midterm elections. Two-term Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom teamed up with congressional Democrats and legislative leaders in the heavily blue state at an event in Los Angeles. That's where they unveiled their game plan to counter the push by President Donald Trump and Republicans to create up to five GOP-friendly congressional districts in Texas at the expense of currently Democrat-controlled seats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Today is liberation day in the state of California," Newsom said. "Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back." Newsom Vows To Fight Fire With Fire In Congressional Redistricting Battle California Dems have "promised not to do away with the states independent redistricting commission entirely," and are instead planning to ask voters "to approve a constitutional amendment that would put new maps approved by the Legislature in effect for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 election cycles." And Newsom vowed to "meet fire with fire" with his push for rarebut not unheard ofmid-decade redistricting. Read On The Fox News App Newsom says Trump missed a deadline to stand down on his push to redistrict in Texas. "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 earlier this week in a social media post posted by his press office, which was meant to mock how Trump writes his own social media posts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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," he added. The Republican push in Texas, which comes at Trump's urging, is part of a broader effort by the GOP across the country to pad their razor-thin House majority to keep control of the chamber in the 2026 midterms, when the party in power traditionally faces political headwinds and loses seats. Newsom Demands Trump Give Up Texas Redistricting Push Trump and his political team are aiming to prevent what happened during his first term in the White House, when Democrats stormed back to grab the House majority in the 2018 midterms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But while the Republican push in Texas to upend the current congressional maps doesn't face constitutional constraints, Newsom's path in California is much more complicated. In GOP-dominated Texas, Republicans plan to enact the new maps they drew up once enough state Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to prevent the legislature from passing the measure return to Texas. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, seen speaking during a bill signing in the State Capitol on April 23, 2025, in Austin, Texas, has called a special session of the Texas legislature to push for congressional redistricting. The governor is moving to hold a special election this year, to obtain voter approval to undo the constitutional amendments that created the non-partisan redistricting commission. A two-thirds majority vote in the Democrat-dominated California legislature would be needed to hold the referendum. Democratic Party leaders are confident they'll have the votes to push the constitutional amendment and the new proposed congressional maps through the legislature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Here we are in open and plain sight before one vote is cast in the 2026 midterm election and here [Trump] is once again trying to rig the system," Newsom charged. Newsom said his plan is "not complicated. Were doing this in reaction to a President of the United States that called a sitting governor in the state of Texas and said find me five seats. Were doing it in reaction to that act." The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) charged that "Newsoms made it clear: hell shred Californias Constitution and trample over democracy - running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority." But Newsom defended his actions, saying "were working through a very transparent, temporary and public process. Were putting the maps on the ballot and putting the power to the people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thursday's appearance by Newsom, who is considered a likely contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, will also serve as a fundraising kickoff to raise massive amounts of campaign cash needed to sell the redistricting push statewide in California. Schwarzenegger's New Staring Role: Pushing Back Against Newsom's Redistricting Drive The non-partisan redistricting commission, created over 15 years ago, remains popular with most Californians, according to public opinion polling. That's why Newsom and California Democratic lawmakers are promising not to scrap the commission entirely, but rather replace it temporarily by the legislature for the next three election cycles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will affirm our commitment to the state independent redistricting after the 2030 census, but we asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting," Newsom said. But their efforts are opposed by a number of coalition of figures supportive of the non-partisan commission. Among the most visible members is former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the last Republican elected governor in Democrat-dominated California. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the last Republican elected governor in California, opposes the push by Democrats to scrap the state's non-partisan redistricting commission. Schwarzenegger, during his tenure as governor, had a starring role in the passage of constitutional amendments in California in 2008 and 2010 that took the power to draw state legislative and congressional districts away from politicians and place it in the hands of an independent commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Most people don't really think about an independent commission much, one way or another. And that's both an opportunity and a challenge for Newsom," Jack Pitney, an American politics professor at California's Claremont McKenna College, told Fox News. But he added that "it's going to take a lot of effort and money to energize Democrats and motivate them to show up at the polls" and that Newsom's effort "is all about motivating people who don't like Trump." Original article source: Newsom unveils California redistricting effort to counter Trump-backed push in Texas California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Tuesday urged Illinois and New York to press ahead with redistricting efforts as GOP lawmakers push to pick up five additional House seats in Texas. Right now forget the talking; its not about press. Its time to move. You got to move. I mean, enough, Newsom said. Were all saying the right thing. Now we got to do the right thing, which means we got to fight fire with fire, he told Beto ORourke, a former Democratic representative from Texas, during the Tuesday episode of his This is Gavin Newsom podcast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two also criticized Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) for advocating for the arrest of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state in an effort to block a vote advancing redistricting efforts in the Lone Star State. The Democratic state lawmakers who left are preventing the Texas Legislature from having the quorum necessary to pass legislation. Lawmakers in New York and Illinois have launched redistricting efforts in response to Texas. In New York, state Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris (D) and Assembly member Micah Lasher (D) introduced legislation to amend the states constitution permitting redistricting efforts outside of the traditional cycle. Lawmakers in Illinois are working on a similar measure. On the Tuesday podcast, Newsom also noted that Californias elected officials would be moving swiftly to combat Republican efforts with countermeasures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later this week, were going to announce the campaign. Next week, the Legislatures going to move this forward, Newsom said. Newsom has been listed as a potential contender for the White House in 2028 as Democrats prepare to launch a comeback bid after losing the presidential race and the Senate majority last year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Vowing to meet fire with fire, California Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday announced that his state would hold a ballot initiative seeking to redraw its congressional districts as a countermeasure to the gerrymandering push by President Donald Trump and Republicans in Texas ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Newsom made the announcement in a speech laden with anti-Trump rhetoric as Border Patrol agents swarmed outside the Los Angeles auditorium. The Democrat, who has made major steps toward running for president in 2028, said that he would request the state legislature take up the bill, which would require two-thirds of the vote to pass and reach a ballot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have got to recognize the cards that have been dealt, and we have got to meet fire with fire, and we've got to be held to a higher level accountability, Newsom said. Newsoms announcement at the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo comes after Trump pressed the Texas legislature to reconvene in a rare mid-Census redraw of its congressional districts to give Republicans five more seats. In response, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, convened a special session of the legislature, which usually only meets for half of the year. California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a news conference Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) (AP) In response, many Democrats in the Texas state House of Representatives decamped to blue states including Illinois, California and New York to prevent a quorum from being reached and a vote being held on the redraw. Typically, states redo their maps every 10 years in response to the Census data. But Republicans want to shore up their slim House majority as they continue to lag in the generic ballot ahead of the 2026 midterm election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Californias constitution requires that redistricting be done by a nonpartisan commission after a 2010 by ballot initiative. But Newsom said that Trumps moves forced Democrats to change. We're doing it mindful that we want to model better behavior, as we've been doing for 15 years in the State of California with our independent redistricting commission, he said. But we cannot unilaterally disarm. On Thursday, Texas Democrats said that they would return once the session ends and once California unveils its new map. Newsom sought to draw a distinction between his efforts to redraw the map and those Texas Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We didn't receive a phone call from the president united states to then quietly go in the back room and start drawing maps and legislatively try to jam them through against the people, Newsom said. We're doing precisely the opposite. We're working through a very transparent, temporary and public process. The move would mean that if Texas moves forward with its map, California could redraw its congressional map to give House Democrats extra seats from the Golden State. But a ballot measure would be a herculean effort, wherein not only two-thirds of the legislature approve of it, but also that voters turn out for the vote to allow that for the state to redraw the map. We will affirm our commitment to the State Independent Redistricting after the 2030 census, Newsom said. But we're asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028 and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to what's happening in Texas, to respond what Trump is trying to excite and we'll do so in a way that also affirms our desire as a state to level the playing field all across the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Newsoms fight represents just the latest sticking point he has had with Trump since the president returned to office in January. Trump said when he first visited California after the wildfires ravaged the Los Angeles area that he demanded the state adopt a voter ID law to receive federal dollars. Then in June, Trump dispatched Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to Los Angeles, specifically at places like Home Depot, as part of his plans for mass deportation. In response to protests that at times led to the destruction of property, Trump sent the National Guard to Los Angeles without Newsoms consent. Wake up America, he said. This is serious moment. Wake up to what's going on. Wake up to the fear, the anxiety. Wake up to what's happening. Not just here in Los Angeles, where we saw our streets militarized. Newsom has also taken steps to show he is interested in running for president, including visiting South Carolina, which holds the one first presidential primaries for the Democratic Party. He also served as a major attack dog for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for most of the 2024 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort also reflects a larger change in attitude among Democratic voters, who want to see their leaders take a less conciliatory approach toward Republicans and focus more on attacking them. Here we are in plain sight before one vote is cast in the 2026 midterm election and here he is once again trying to rig the system, Newsom said. He does not play by a different set of rules, he does not believe in the rules. And as a consequence, we need to disabuse ourselves of the way that things have been done. But Texas is not the only Republican state to try and change their maps to squeeze out Republican seats. Vice President JD Vance visited Indiana to try and convince them to change their maps. Other potential states include Ohio, Missouri and Florida. As France prepares to airdrop another 36 tonnes of aid into Gaza by next week, more than 100 NGOs have accused Israel of "weaponising" relief supplies. They say new registration rules have left goods stuck in Jordan and Egypt while Palestinians face starvation. A joint letter signed by organisations including Medecins Sans Frontieres and Oxfam urges Israel to drop rules they say are stopping the entry of medicine, food and water. "Israeli authorities have rejected requests from dozens of NGOs to bring in life-saving goods, citing that these organisations are not authorised to deliver aid," the groups said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The appeal comes as Israel prepares to take control of Gaza City a move France and the United Nations have warned could have devastating humanitarian consequences. The registration requirements, introduced in March, allow Israel to reject a groups request to work in Gaza if it "promotes delegitimisation campaigns" against the state of Israel. Macron warns Israel that Gaza occupation plan risks war without end The NGOs say some groups are being pressured to halt operations if they do not give detailed information about their Palestinian staff. Israel says the information is needed for security checks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Despite claims by Israeli authorities that there is no limit on humanitarian aid entering Gaza, most major international NGOs have been unable to deliver a single truck of life-saving supplies since 2 March," the groups said. Israel questions 'true intentions' France, which has contributed to an effort organised by Jordan and other international partners to send 1,000 tonnes of aid to Gaza, has seen some of its supplies blocked in Egypt and Jordan, because of the Israeli blockade, a diplomatic source told the AFP news agency on Wednesday. The source said that France was planning on airdropping another 36 tonnes of supplies, including medicine, medical equipment and first aid material, before 20 August. The Israeli military unit in charge of security and civilian policy in the occupied West Bank and Gaza Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (Cogat) said Israel allows and facilitates the entry of aid into Gaza, and that the registration requirements are "designed to ensure that aid reaches the population directly and not Hamas". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hunger, disease and no escape: Gaza aid workers account of life under siege It questioned the motivation of the organisations criticising the registration process, saying: "The refusal of some international organisations to provide the information and cooperate with the registration process raises serious concerns about their true intentions and the possibility of ties between the organisation or its employees and Hamas." According to Cogat, 20 organisations have completed the registration process and have been bringing around 300 lorries of supplies a day into Gaza. The UN says 600 lorries per day are needed, while humanitarian groups say their inability to deliver aid has "left hospitals without basic supplies [and] children, people with disabilities and older people dying from hunger and preventable illnesses". The past 22 months have seen Israel engaged in a devastating military operation in Gaza. That has inevitably meant civilian casualties. As of now, we do not know the exact number, not least because the figures are provided by the Hamas-run ministry of health and, at the most basic level, do not separate out terrorists from civilians. But it is striking how few supposedly objective observers not only take the word of Hamas as gospel, but are willing to peddle any supposed statistic or revelation which paints Israelis as bloodthirsty monsters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This week has seen one such claim go viral on social media a claim so obviously preposterous that it calls into question not just the bias of those who are citing it but their very ability to engage in cognitive reasoning. On Monday the IDF killed Anas al-Sharif, who was employed as a journalist by Al Jazeera but who was also, according to the Israelis, the commander of a rocket launch squadron in Hamass Northern Brigade, had a personal Hamas ID number and had his details listed in the directory of Hamass Nukhba battalion in East Jabaliya. His killing prompted a mass outbreak of anger among many leading journalists. It also led to the circulation by some of those journalists of a statistic that anyone with even a modicum of basic sense could see was plain nonsense. John Simpson, doyen of BBC correspondents and its world affairs editor, was among the first to respond to al-Sharifs death by circulating the statistic, posting this on his social media feed: According to the Watson School of International and Public Affairs in Rhode Island, more journalists have been killed in Gaza than in both world wars, the Vietnam war, the wars in Yugoslavia and the war in Afghanistan combined. Skys Alex Crawford had already posted the claim in June, when it was first made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It will surprise no one that Amnesty, which often publishes grotesque lies about Israel, also joined in, citing figures from the report: The targeted killing of Anas al-Sharif and five other journalists on Sunday means at least 242 Palestinian journalists have been killed by Israeli forces since the beginning of October 2023. No conflict in modern history has seen a higher number of journalists killed. Second World War: 1939-45: 69 journalists killed. These claims are absurd for the patently obvious reason that, under the Third Reich, there was the Holocaust: a glance at the Yad Vashem website shows that more than 1400 Jewish journalists were murdered by the Nazis. So even restricting the numbers killed to just Jewish journalists, the claim by the Watson School gobbled up with glee by the likes of Simpson, Crawford and Amnesty International is clearly nonsense, since the number of Jewish journalists killed during WW2 is more than five times the entire number of reporters supposedly killed in Gaza. But it gets worse. The Watson School claims that just 69 journalists died in WW2. The claim is self-evident nonsense, given that its estimated that between 70 and 85 million people died in WW2. The papers authors appear to have taken a memorial to journalists killed doing their job built by the Freedom Forum in the US, which lists 69 reporters who died during WW2, and taken these to be not some of the reporters who died in WW2 but the only reporters. It is jaw dropping in its stupidity assuming, perhaps charitably, idiocy rather than malevolence. The Watson scholars have, however, done the opposite with their estimation of the number of journalists killed in Gaza: they have probably produced an exaggerated number. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Analysis of the names cited by those less willing to accept without scrutiny any claim of Israeli evil shows that some are considered by the Watson authors to be journalists for the most tenuous of reasons such as having an Instagram or Facebook account to which they have posted content. Many mainstream and renowned journalists have emerged from the Gaza conflict with their reputations shown to be undeserved; the same is true of some NGOs. This latest example is perhaps the most astonishing example of all of their willingness to uncritically repeat any nonsense, so long as it portrays Israel as the villain. 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. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) Former naval officer Nicholas Kassiotis was convicted Thursday of murdering and dismembering his wife in Georgia. Kassotis, 43, was found guilty on all of the charges he faced in the November 2022 death of Mindi Kassotis, 40. Kassotis faced the following charges: Malice Murder Felony Murder Aggravated Assault Concealing the death of another Possession of a knife during the commission of a crime 5 counts of possession of a tool during the commission of a crime Removal of the body parts from the scene of the death Tampering with evidence Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On December 2, hunters found Mindis dismembered remains in Riceboro. According to reports, her remains were found in multiple locations within a three-mile radius. The judge sentenced Kassotis to life without parole plus 25 years to serve. He is now remanded to custody. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Nicholas Rossi has been found guilty of rape allegations dating back to 2008 as his trial in Salt Lake County concluded Wednesday. Rossi was extradited from Scotland to Utah after he reportedly faked his own death to escape these charges. Rossis trial for rape charges dating back to 2008 began on Monday August 11, and it was originally scheduled to run until Friday. However, in the evening of August 13, the jury found Rossi guilty of first-degree felony rape. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Nicholas Rossi, extradited fugitive who faked his death, begins rape trial in Salt Lake County Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi, legal name Nicholas Alahverdian, was accused of faking his death in order to escape rape charges in Salt Lake and Utah counties. Rossi also insisted that he was not Nicholas Rossi for years, claiming that prosecutors had the wrong man and that he was actually Arthur Knight. Rossi has been found guilty of raping a 24-year-old woman in December of 2008, after they dated for a brief period of time. Court documents stated that Rossi trapped the woman in his bedroom, not allowing her to leave, and committed the assault. Rossi met the victim online in 2008, and they dated between November and December of that year. During the trial, the victim, now 41, testified that while they were dating, Rossi constantly borrowed money from her and pressured her to marry him. BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Alleged Utah sex offender Nicholas Rossi faces extradition from Scotland Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to a press release from the Salt Lake County District Attorneys Office, Rossi bought them wedding rings. He also became verbally abusive. After an argument while they were at the Gateway mall in Salt Lake City, the victim took off her wedding ring and got into her car. Rossi then began screaming and hitting the car, but eventually, he got into the car, and the victim drove him home. At his home, he refused to get out of the car and said that he would call the police and say that she hit him. The victim testified that he eventually convinced her to come inside his home, where she attempted to end the relationship. He trapped her in the bedroom and then raped her. Rossi is facing five years to life in prison for this conviction. Sentencing is set to take place on October 20, 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said. Reportedly, in 2020, Rossi told a media outlet that he had late-stage cancer and an obituary was later published online, according to the Associated Press. The obituary claimed he died on February 29, 2020, but he was later arrested for an unrelated incident in Glasgow while he was being treated for COVID-19. Following that arrest, he was recognized as a fugitive and extradited from Scotland to the U.S. in 2023. In October of 2024, prosecutors for Utah County were hopeful to come to a resolution with Rossi, but in January, Rossis defense attorneys stated that they would not be taking a plea deal. Rossi is scheduled for a final pretrial conference for his Utah County rape charges on August 26. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi is facing charges in other states as well. He is facing sexual assault, harassment, and possible kidnapping charges in Rhode Island, Ohio, and Massachusetts. The Associated Press has contributed to this story. Latest headlines: Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A Utah jury has found Rhode Island conman Nicholas Alahverdian, also known as Nicholas Rossi, guilty of first-degree felony rape. Alahverdian, 38, faced charges of raping a 26-year-old Salt Lake County woman in 2008. He was charged under the name Nicholas Rossi. We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place," Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement. "We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alahverdian faked his own death in 2020 while the FBI was investigating unrelated allegations of credit card fraud, and he was later found in Scotland. He spent years fighting extradition while pretending to be a fictional Irish orphan named "Arthur Knight." A screenshot taken from court video shows Nicholas Alahverdian appearing in a Utah District Court on Aug. 22, 2024, on one of two rape charges he faces there. Sentencing scheduled for October; other charges remain pending Alahverdian's conviction stems from charges that he raped his then-girlfriend, a woman whom he had met online. According to prosecutors, Alahverdian told the woman they should get married shortly after they began dating, and they purchased wedding rings. However, Alahverdian soon became verbally and emotionally abusive, prosecutors say. An argument at Salt Lake City's Gateway Mall turned violent, and when the couple returned to Alahverdian's apartment, he refused to let the woman leave and raped her. A jury in Utah's Third District Court reached a guilty verdict on Aug. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charge is punishable by five years to life in the Utah State Correctional Facility, according to the Salt Lake County District Attorney's Office. Alahverdian is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 20. What's next? Alahverdian also faces additional rape charges in Utah County from another case in 2008 that involves a different woman. He has yet to face trial on those charges. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Nicholas Rossi, con man who faked his own death, found guilty of Utah rape By Camillus Eboh ABUJA (Reuters) -Nigeria's defence chief has defended operations against insurgents and criminal gangs that have caused civilian casualties, saying the military is doing what it can to prevent loss of life. Nigeria's military has increasingly used airstrikes against the growing threat of militias in the north and central regions. It has admitted to mistakenly targeting civilians while pursuing armed gangs in the northwest, where there is widespread insecurity, and has promised to investigate such cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defence Chief of Staff General Christopher Musa also called for a review of international laws, arguing that they restrict state forces while leaving non-state actors "who kill at will" unchecked. In rare comments to reporters in the capital Abuja on Wednesday, Musa said the military frequently halts operations to prevent civilian harm, even at the cost of compromising tactical advantages. "We are made to look as if we are committing the worst atrocities ever, but I can assure you that we are doing the best we can. We respect human rights and value civilian lives," he said. "We often abort operations to avoid civilian casualties ... this has, in part, prolonged the conflict." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The remarks come after growing scrutiny of Nigeria's counterinsurgency operations and accusations by rights groups that the military has used excessive force. But there are frustrations within Nigeria's armed forces, where many believe they are being judged against higher standards than comparable forces in more developed countries. They also say too little account is taken of the difficulties of fighting informal armed Islamist insurgents or criminal gangs who operate entirely among civilians. The general cited ongoing training in human rights and international humanitarian law for military personnel, both locally and abroad, as evidence of progress. (Reporting by Camillus Eboh; writing by Elisha Bala-Gbogbo; Editing by Kevin Liffey) On 13 August Brazils Presidentunveiled measures, including a R$30bn (US$5.6bn) credit line, aimed at supporting companies expected to be heavily impacted by the high US tariffs which took effect on 6 August. End of preview - This article contains approximately 402 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Jay Bhattacharya claims the federal government recently canceled millions of dollars worth of mRNA research contracts because the general public does not trust the technology. Bhattacharya explained the reason behind the abrupt contract cancellations during an episode of Republican political strategist Steve Bannons podcast War Room last week and again in an op-ed recently published in The Washington Post. In the article, Bhattacharya called the mRNA platform a promising technology and acknowledged that it may lead to breakthroughs in treatment for diseases like cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But as a vaccine intended for broad public use, especially during a public health emergency, the platform has failed a crucial test: earning public trust, he wrote. No matter how elegant the science, a platform that lacks credibility among the people it seeks to protect cannot fulfill its public health mission. Bhattacharyas explanation for the administrations pivot away from mRNA technology differs from that of his boss, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Kennedy announced last week the agency would wind down its mRNA vaccine development activities under the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) and cancel $500 million worth of contracts related to the technology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said mRNA technologies funded during the pandemic failed to meet current scientific standards and that the federal government would shift its focus to whole-virus vaccines and novel platforms. Bhattacharya expressed concern in the article about mRNA vaccines ability to direct human cells to produce spike proteins to trigger an immune response. He argues the scientific community does not have a clear understanding of where mRNA product stays in the body, for how long, and whether other proteins are created in the process. Scott Hensley, a microbiology professor at the University of Pennsylvanias Perelman School of Medicine, told Stat news that these are also issues with vaccines that use live but weakened viruses like the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, which federal health agencies have deemed safe and effective. This is why we complete human clinical studies before vaccines are widely used in humans, he told the outlet. The mRNA and live attenuated vaccine platforms have both proven to be safe and effective in clinical trials. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He blamed public distrust in mRNA on the Biden administrations COVID-19 vaccine mandates during the pandemic. Science isnt propaganda, Bhattacharya wrote in the op-ed. Its humility. And when public health officials stopped communicating with humility, we lost much of the public, an absolute necessity for any vaccine platform. A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Hill. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) Nike co-founder Phil Knight and his wife Penny Knight have pledged to donate $2 billion to Oregon Health & Science Universitys Knight Cancer Institute, the school announced Thursday, describing it as the largest single gift to a U.S. university. This gift is an unprecedented investment in the millions of lives burdened with cancer, especially patients and families here in Oregon, OHSU President Shereef Elnahal said in a statement. The donation will help ensure patients have access to various resources, including psychological, genetic and financial counseling, symptom management, nutritional support and survivorship care, the university statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We couldnt be more excited about the transformational potential of this work for humanity, the Knights said in the statement. The university described it as the largest single donation ever made to a U.S. university, college or academic health center. It surpasses the $1.8 billion given by Michael Bloomberg to Johns Hopkins in 2018, described by that university at the time as the largest single contribution to a U.S. university. Bloomberg also donated an additional $1 billion to Johns Hopkins last year, covering tuition, living expenses and fees for students from families under certain income levels. The magnitude of the donation will allow the Knight Cancer Institute to become a self-governed entity with its own board of directors within OHSU, the university said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knight is Oregons richest man. In 2013, he and his wife pledged $500 million to the cancer institute if the university matched it within two years. The match was met following $200 million in bonds from the Oregon Legislature, $100 million from then-chair of Columbia Sportswear Gert Boyle and donations from some 10,000 people, the university said. Universities across the country are struggling with moves from President Donald Trump's administration to cancel or freeze research grants at universities. NIXA, Mo. As school districts across Missouri prepare for their first year under the new state ban on cell phones in the classroom, the Nixa School District is simply taking its policy from last year and strengthening it. Last year we had a policy where they could not have it during the actual classroom time for the hour class period, and I think that worked pretty well. I saw a big difference in the engagement of our students, Erin Livengood said. Livengood has been teaching before cell phones even made their way into classrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When I first started teaching, cell phones werent in the classroom. My first year of teaching, they had not even developed texting. My second year texting became available, so we didnt get to see them in the classroom, but I could see a difference in the way composing sentences were made and they wrote because they started using text lingo instead of writing standard or sentences like before, and then as they have grown in their ability to do so many things for us, theyve really kind of invaded our classroom, Livengood said. They can be quite a distraction for some kids, especially with the onset of social media, theyre really interested in checking apps or just texting, but they also can be really great things. Theres different apps that can really help them, like prepare for a test or have a study they can do review games on there, so there are benefits, but because teenagers are social creatures, they really kind of gravitate toward the parts that are more like social media. Under the new law, phones cant be out at all. Out of sight, out of mind. From 7:30 to the bell rings, students are not allowed to use their phones within the building, and that would include Apple Watches and communicating with each other as well. I believe that they could use them to check the time, but theyre not allowed to communicate digitally with each other, Alexander Edwards said. This year, with the total ban, there will be a few exceptions where students can use their cellphones. If they have an IEP plan that requires cell phone use or if students have a medical device that would require cell phone use, theyll be allowed to use it, but outside of those exemptions, there really isnt much carve out of the law for the students to use their cell phones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edwards welcomes the change. Cell phones can be a mixed bag. A lot of times they can be distractions in the classroom, but it really comes down to management how you manage that in your classroom. I think that we reached a point where the state legislature had to do something to address cell phones in the classroom, Edwards said. I think its going to be a benefit to the students. I think it can help clear some hurdles out of their way between them and learning in the classroom. I think that they eventually can regain that ability to focus for a much longer period of time. So I think at the beginning its very, very hard for them, Livengood said. One argument that opponents have voiced is in a world where serious, potentially dangerous situations are unfortunately more common at schools than before, many parents have raised concerns about needing the ability to check in with their kids in real time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Edwards is also a parent of a high school student, and sees both sides of the ban. If a student in a parent need to communicate with each other throughout the day, there are a lot of avenues for them to do that outside of cell phone use in the law also carves out spaces for in cases of emergencies, students are still allowed to use their phones, Edwards said. My wife and I are both teachers, and I think we always take the side that our students are well protected as they are. Were trusting adults. Theyre with people who have their best interests in mind, and so in our opinion, um, its easy for us to go a few hours without talking to them or the entire school day without talking to them, because I know that they are in the right place. Livengood says the change, in theory, would also reduce cyberbullying during school hours. I would think so. I think we should see some decrease in that, especially during the school day. They shouldnt have any way to do that if theyre following the law and doing that in good faith, we should see a reduction of that, Livengood said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sharika Biswas is a student at Nixa High School. She tends to lean towards the ban as a good idea, but doesnt think the state needed to make it a law, but rather let every district make its own policy. I think the statewide level is extreme. At some point, I think schools really need to see how their school is doing itself and like what they need to fix, Biswas said. I feel like theres both pros and cons to this new rule. I think it definitely can be beneficial to be more focused in the classroom because even like some teachers dont care. Some people just like flip through their phones, it does get very distracting during the class period, and it would be better to like, connect with our peers. One of the cons, I think its just like during emergency purposes, its kind of hard to contact parents. She does say itll take time to adjust, especially since students are returning from summer, likely spending every moment on their phones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think its definitely a big change and something that will take adjusting to this, Biswas said. Biswas agrees with Livengood that the ban could reduce bullying in school. I definitely do think it will. Theres a lot of things that do get posted even during school hours, like taking pictures of other students and in the school. I think this is a great way to break that down, Biswas said. [Put] a lot more focus on seeing each other face to face and like in like, interactions with each other rather than interacting over the phones on social media because of that. OzarksFirst reached out to over a dozen schools for their plans when it comes to the cell phone policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nixas first day of school is August 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 KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. A 47-year-old pharmaceutical executive from New Jersey has been charged with aggravated manslaughter, vehicular homicide and assault by auto in connection with a high-speed, wrong-way crash that killed a former Olympic swimmer. Brick Township resident Brian Baldari is accused of causing the death of 66-year-old Edwin Borja following a multi-vehicle collision in Lakewood in the early hours of March 7. According to Ocean County prosecutors, Baldari was driving more than 100 mph in the wrong direction for roughly 2 miles when the crash occurred on Route 70 shortly before 6 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A subsequent investigation revealed that Baldaris Cadillac CT5 Blackwing had been traveling westbound in the eastbound lane when it collided head-on with Borjas Mazda CX5, setting off a sequence of events involving a total of eight vehicles. As a result of the crash, Baldaris Cadillac caught fire with him trapped inside. He was extracted and airlifted to a Jersey Shore hospital and and later transferred to the Weill Cornell Medicine Burn Center on the Upper East Side. Borja was similarly airlifted to a hospital, but died from his injuries 11 days after the crash. Another person involved in the chaotic encounter was treated for their injuries in New Jersey and later released. The drivers of the other vehicles escaped the incident uninjured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Baldari was formally charged on Wednesday and surrendered to the Lakewood Township Police Headquarters, according to prosecutors. He was then transported to the Ocean County Jail where he remains pending a detention hearing. A LinkedIn page for Baldari describes him as an award-winning executive pharmaceutical marketing leader specialized in global end-to-end brand development. He attended Rutgers University and worked for Allergan, Novartis and Otsuka in New Jersey. His current role is listed as the VP of franchise portfolio management with Azurity Pharmaceuticals. Borja lived in Manchester, N.J., but originally hailed from the Philippines. He was a member of the Philippine Olympic Swim Team for the 1972 and 1976 summer games. The father of two was predeceased by his wife in 2019, according to an online obituary. There is still no sign of agreement on a treaty for a global deal to prevent plastic waste, after more than a week of wrangling in Geneva. Around 180 countries plan to finalize the text on Thursday. The UN agreement aims to regulate the production, design and waste management of plastic. However, one day before the planned conclusion of the negotiations, the positions of the countries were still far apart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Negotiators did not rule out the possibility that the talks could continue into the early hours of Friday morning. Oil-producing countries only want to talk about eliminating plastic waste, but not about actually limiting production. Plastic is largely made from oil products. For many countries, especially in Europe, a gradual reduction in production is one of the key points of the agreement. Plastic pollutes the oceans and the environment, kills fish and other living creatures, and endangers human health. Tiny particles are increasingly being found in human organs including the brain. According to studies, nano and microplastic particles impair the immune system and promote inflammation. (KRON) A police officer who shot and killed a former heavy metal guitarist in a standoff in South San Francisco earlier this year did so in legally justifiable self-defense. That was the ruling announced Thursday by San Mateo County District Attorney Steven M. Wagstaffes office. The standoff, which occurred outside a South San Francisco home on April 28, involved Brian Montana, a guitarist and founding member of the influential Bay Area metal band Possessed. Montana, 60, became involved in the standoff with police at around 5:50 p.m. at a residence on the 300 block of Arroyo Drive. MOST LOVED & HANDSOME GOVERNOR Newsom trolls Trump on social media Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the course of the incident, Montana armed himself with three different types of firearm a handgun, a shotgun, and a rifle. He also fired at officers from different locations within the driveway while seeking cover and concealment using vehicles and landscaping. Officers, using police vehicles as cover, returned fire, eventually striking and killing Montana. The officer who shot the former guitarist was identified by the DA as Officer Jeffrey Lee. At the conclusion of an investigation into Lees actions that day, the DA concluded that there was no legal basis to file criminal charges against him and that Lees use of force was legally justifiable self-defense and defense of others. The DAs office has deemed the case closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Possessed were formed in 1983 and initially disbanded in 1987. Referred to as the godfathers of death metal by AllMusic, Possessed have since reformed on numerous occasions. Their most recent album, Relations of Oblivion, was released in 2019. Montana left the band in 1985 and was replaced by future Primus guitarist Larry LaLonde. The police standoff he became involved with when he was shot and killed stemmed from a dispute over tree trimmings falling into a neighbors yard, a resident told KRON4 at the 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 KRON4. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) vowed to fight a possible effort by President Donald Trump to get Congress to extend his federal takeover of Washington, D.C., in a new interview released Wednesday. Earlier this week, Trump announced he was seizing control of the capitals police force and deploying National Guard troops to the city to fight what he falsely described as out of control crime. Under the D.C. Home Rule Act, the president can only unilaterally take over the Metropolitan Police Department for 30 days, requiring Trump to seek an extension from the House and the Senate to continue the takeover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an interview with The Parnas Perspective, Schumer said there was no fucking way Congress would grant Trump his wish. Well fight him tooth and nail, Schumer said. 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 it either. Parnas: If he went to Congress and said, You know what? Theres this crime emergency. We need the National Guard out there longer. We need to take over Washington, D.C. Would you grant it? Schumer: No fucking way. pic.twitter.com/FyJUhkMmyQ Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025 Schumer did not name the GOP senators he believes would dare to defy Trump. Trump told reporters on Wednesday he was planning to seek a long-term extension, saying he was confident the GOP-controlled Congress would approve his request, but stressed that he could declare a national emergency to get his way regardless of whether he faced opposition from lawmakers. Related: Trumps D.C. Police Takeover Is His Latest Made-Up Emergency Power Grab I dont want to call a national emergency, Trump said. If I have to, I will, but I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While crime remains an issue in D.C., the situation is much different than Trump claims. Total violent crime in the city fell by 35% in 2024, and its the lowest its been in 30 years, data shows. Schumer told host Aaron Parnas that Trumps actions in the nations capital amount to a distraction tactic, claiming that the president is trying to divert the publics focus away from the Jeffrey Epstein controversy. Hes afraid of Epstein. Hes afraid of all that, Schumer said, adding that Democrats will continue pressing him on the issue. While there is no evidence that Trump has committed any wrongdoing around the Epstein case, his administrations handling of the issue has raised questions. Related: 'Everyone Is So Scared': Inside The Smithsonian As Trump Attacks Art, History While Attorney General Pam Bondi said the late sex offenders client list was sitting on my desk right now to review, the Justice Department and the FBI later released an unsigned memo declaring there was no evidence to support that Epstein was killed or that he held a client list to blackmail people, prompting outrage, including among Trumps base. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Epstein died by suicide in federal prison in 2019 during Trumps first term in office while awaiting a federal sex-trafficking trial in New York. Related... Read the original on HuffPost CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) Consecutive days without rain have led to burn ban enforcement in Caddo Parish. On Thursday, August 14, the parish was placed under a burn ban due to extreme dry conditions and no significant chance of rain in long-range forecasts. Residents are discouraged from any outdoor burning. The Caddo Fire Chiefs Association will lift the ban as conditions improve. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) Leaders and staff members representing 48 non-profit organizations gathered in Johnstown at Penn Highlands Community College for a one-day symposium. The event was free to all registrants, thanks to a grant from the Community Initiatives Fund at the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies. It was designed to empower non-profits with the tools and insights needed to strengthen and sustain their community programs. The organizers said the symposium comes at a time when non-profits are facing unprecedented challenges, including workforce shortages, budget constraints, and funding cuts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ag Progress Days draws crowds of families and politicians I think right now were in a really unstable funding environment, and a lot of nonprofits are concerned about how are we going to keep our programs going. We have a state budget impasse. We have federal funding cuts. Are there things that we can do as nonprofits to ensure were still serving the people that we are designed to serve? Leah Spangler, Co-Chair of the Non-Profit Learning Partnership, said. To tackle those issues, the symposium brought experts, thought leaders, and representatives from the non-profit sector to the college to share insights, strategies, and innovative solutions. There were topics on what to do if funding is cut, and leading during difficult times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im hoping that there was something for everyone here today. And that those who are just getting started on their nonprofit journey will leave with resources to help them build stronger organizations. And I hope for organizations that came who are more well developed, there were concepts that we reviewed that reinforce ideas they probably already knew, or maybe some resources that they can take home with them, Spangler said. Five Pennsylvania counties were represented at the symposium. Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters. This was the first time Pennsylvania Highlands Community Colleges Non-Profit Learning Center hosted the symposium. Spangler said it will become an annual event. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOELTON, Tenn. (WKRN) One of the delights of living in Middle Tennessee is getting to observe local wildlife in the area, such as foxes. Courtesy: Waldens Puddle However, mange has recently become a problem with many foxes in the area. Waldens Puddle, one of the few certified and licensed wildlife rehabilitators in Middle Tennessee, and has taken in and treated 85 foxes during the last year. Hiking, camping and more: How to spend a day at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Courtesy: Waldens Puddle Jerry Vandiver, a fox rescue volunteer at Waldens Puddle, humanely traps foxes in areas where foxes with mange have been seen by the public. Then, he brings them to the wildlife center for treatment. | READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County We have an epidemic of sarcoptic mange in foxes all over Middle Tennessee, said Vandiver. What happens is, the mites that cause the mange are out there, and when the fox comes along and eats the prey thats been infected by some pesticides particularly what we call rodenticides, rat and mice poison the foxs immune system drops and the mites take over. Courtesy: Waldens Puddle The bad news is that if the fox is untreated, it will die a long and excruciating death, Vandiver told News 2. But sarcoptic mange is treatable by the staff here at Waldens Puddle. And if we are able to catch those foxes, we can treat them, release them back in their home, and theyll be happy and healthy again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rabbits with tentacle-like growths seen in Colorado Volunteers at the wildlife center ask people ask people to not feed wildlife, as this could bring animals like foxes, close together and spread mange. According to Vandiver, once a fox is cured, releasing it back into the wild is an exhilarating experience. Its very emotional, he pointed out. When we open the crate and they run out into the woods, Ive seen a few people tear up, myself included. Sometimes, every once in a while, they turn and look back at you. Id like to think that theyre saying, Thank you. Probably not. Theyre probably saying, Im glad to be out of here. But, they do turn and look back, and its pretty special. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Unfortunately, the monthly cost for medical care and food for the foxes alone is over $8,000. The cost for all of the animals and wildlife being rehabilitated at Waldens Puddle is between $38,000 to $42,000. Most of their workers are volunteers, and the nonprofit organization is in dire need of donations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you would like to donate to Waldens Puddle, you can do so at their website or mail a check to P.O. Box 641, Joelton, TN 37080. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. On 13 August Perus President Dina Boluarte promulgated a law granting amnesties to security personnel for crimes committed from 1980-2000 during the internal conflict with the Maoist guerrilla group Sendero Luminoso (SL), defying an injunction from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (Corte-IDH) which had ruled against the legislation. End of preview - This article contains approximately 608 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Nashville residents who open their mailboxes to find a white envelop from Undue Medical Debt may think it's a scam but think again. Allison Sesso, president and CEO of Undue, said the non-profit organization based in New York, sent letters in August to an estimated 73,000 women and men across Tennessee. In total, Undue is wiping away $142 million in medical debt across the Volunteer State. Allison Sesso, president and CEO of Undue Medical Debt, a national nonprofit "This is a surprise letter," Sesso said. "There's no application. You can't apply for this debt relief. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We find your debt and then we apply the donated dollars and then we let you know that you qualified." Medical debt is a widespread issue impacting an estimated 100 million Americans. Since it's inception 11 years ago, the nonprofit, originally named RIP Medical Debt, has sent letters out to Americans with medical debt in all 50 states. Sample letter sent to residents to inform them part of their medical debt has been paid by a New York City-based non-profit, Undue Medical Debt. "We've actually gotten rid of $22 billion of medical debt across the country, if you can believe it, for 14 million people," Sesso said. Most recently, Undue is focused on states with the greatest need: Tennessee, Texas, Ohio, California and several in the Northeast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MacKenzie Scott, a philanthropist and former wife of Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, is one of the major donors. She alone gave $130 million, Sesso said. Individuals and many churches across the country also collect money and make more modest donations. Some recipients of the Undue letters have worried the notice was a bill or a trick and they have reason to be cautious. In July, the Federal Trade Commission warned Americans about scams involving fake debt relief businesses, particularly targeting senior citizens and veterans. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton created a consumer guide to help spot this type of fraud. Untrue representatives welcome questions from recipients of their letters. They said recipients can confirm the gift by checking their credit reports or calling medical providers. "When they realize it's real by looking us up and finding out that we're a real nonprofit, there are tears of joy, a sense of hope," Sesso said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nonprofit acquires the debts from hospital systems and providers, with $100 typically buying $10,000 worth of medical debt, Sesso said. The nonprofit also buys from for-profits, which buy the debt at a reduced price and then contact debtors in an attempt to negotiate payments. Once Undue pays off the debt, its workers mail out notices informing residents that the debt has been paid, listing the past creditors. To decide which debt to wipe, Undue considers two main criteria. First, they search for families at 400% of the federal poverty level. For example, a family of three in a household with a combined income of $106,000 would qualify, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Second, they examine which individuals have large debt that could total more than 5% of the debtors' income. Sometimes local or state governments, including New Jersey, contract with Undue to help relieve debt for their residents, Sesso said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We really want to break the stigma of medical debt," Sesso said. "Increasingly, it's not that people don't want to pay these bills" but are coping with high premiums and high deductibles that are expected to continue to rise. "When you go to get your health care, and you have to pay $5,000 out of pocket, half of Americans don't have $500 in savings," Sesso said. "Boom, you end up with a mismatch and medical debt. "It's not you. It's the system." Nationwide, about 41% of adults have health care debt, using the broader definition to include money owed on credit card or to family members, according to polling data from Peterson KFF, a health policy nonprofit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Americans owe at least $220 billion in medical debt, according to KFF. About 14 million people owe more than $1,000 and three million people, including some with cancer, owe medical debt greater than $10,000. The American Hospital Association, which represents 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks and other care providers has stated that "hospitals and health systems are very concerned about patients' medical debt. "While health insurance is intended to be the primary mechanism to protect patients from unexpected and unaffordable health care costs, for too many that coverage is either unavailable or insufficient," according to the association's website. "Medical debt can be unexpected due to an accident or illness. These debts can impact patients' abilities to pay for necessities." Beth Warren covers health care and can be reached at bwarren@tennessean.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We want to How to get involved Anyone interested in helping the medical debt relief nonprofit can learn about donating or starting a fundraising campaign on the website unduemedicaldebt.org. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nonprofit Undue to wipe medical debt for 73,000 in Tennessee NORTH ANDOVER The town moderator has appointed a new member to the Finance Committee and reappointed two others to three-year terms. Town moderator Mark DiSalvo announced the new appointment of Jennifer Watson, a defense industry executive, to the committee. He has additionally reappointed Keith Chaney, president and owner of City Sealcoating Inc., and Jeanne Irwin, a grants manager for Haverhill Public Schools. The members will be sworn in by Town Clerk Dawne Warren at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Town Hall, 120 Main. St. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Finance Committee has the primary responsibility of advising voters with recommendations at Town Meeting on the annual budget and any other finance-related warrant articles. The town moderator has the sole authority to appoint the Finance Committee, according to the town charter. DiSalvo said his job is to ensure the committee is representative of the community at large and has credibility in the advice it provides. The goal is to have the committee be diverse on political views, perspectives and gender. Members do not need to be a finance professional or accountant to sit on the committee. There needs to be a breadth of experiences, professional experiences, life experiences and skills on a finance committee, DiSalvo said. These three people really reflect that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The three individuals possess a wide range of private, municipal, and other public finance, analytical, and operational skills vitally necessary amidst a challenging period of fiscal uncertainty, DiSalvo said. Watson has analytical skills that DiSalvo said would be crucial for the committee. She works at MIT Lincoln Laboratory as head of the Homeland Protection and Air Traffic Control Division. In her position, she oversees the development and prototyping of innovative technologies to support national security. Watson has been in a talent bank kept by DiSalvo. He said he was aware of Watsons professional credentials and her involvement in past Town Meetings, and especially this past May. DiSalvo recalled Watson having a magical minute at Town Meeting after he shortened voter discussion time from two minutes to one minute as public comment on the budget was getting long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was the first person to speak limited to one minute. DiSalvo said whether the crowd agreed with her or not, they applauded her after she gave a cogent, one-minute analysis of the moment that we were in as a community. There was just an immediate appreciation for her ability to so cogently craft an argument, DiSalvo said. He added theres a generational change in how Finance Committees operate to look at the effects of general policy, where a town should be in terms of budgeting and creating revenue. Chaney brings policy and business expertise in the area of budget creation. He is also a member of the Lawrence Leads Program and the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce. Chaney serves as a board member of the Alliance for Business Leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irwin was appointed to complete the term of member Ken Gray, who died in October 2024 after serving on the committee for more than two years. When she was sworn in as an interim member, the committee needed someone with municipal finance experience and experience with school budgets due to the challenges the school district faced over the past year. Irwin brings skills as a school business administrator to the committee. She has held director and management titles within public school systems for several towns in Massachusetts. She turned out to be an immediately contributing member of the Finance Committee, DiSalvo said about Irwin. The service of five-year committee member Brianna Stetson will also be recognized at the swearing-in ceremony next week. The public is invited to attend. North Korea may soon deploy about 6,000 soldiers and from 50 to 100 pieces of military equipment to Russia. Source: Kyrylo Budanov, Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), in an interview with The Japan Times, a Japanese English-language daily newspaper Details: Budanov said that the North Korean units in question are officially listed as engineer troops, which are supposed to be engaged in mine clearance and construction of fortifications in Russia's Kursk Oblast. However, he doubts that this will be their only task. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The equipment to be deployed includes M2010 (Cheonma-D) main battle tanks and BTR-80 armoured personnel carriers. Budanov stressed that Moscow's cooperation with Pyongyang poses a threat not only to Ukraine but also to security in the Pacific region. Moscow provides money, technology, and training in exchange for Pyongyang's support, significantly enhancing North Korea's military capabilities. It also supplies food, fuel, oil, and other resources. "The Kremlin pays for all military equipment and troops. This is tens of billions of dollars worth, and for the economy of North Korea, one of the most isolated in the world, this is very serious money," Budanov said. Background: In April, both North Korea and Russia confirmed the participation of North Korean troops in Russia's war against Ukraine. Reports indicated that the North Korean military was present in Kursk Oblast, which at the time was partially controlled by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The two countries then stated that their cooperation was based on an agreement signed by Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in June last year, which, among other things, provides for "mutual defence". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A traffic policeman is dwarfed by the 105-story Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019. Construction of the pyramid-shaped hotel, the capital city's most conspicuous landmark, began in 1987 but the work has not been completed and it has never hosted any guests. It is believed to be the tallest unfinished building in the world. Dita Alangkara/AP Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea, is one of the tallest unoccupied buildings in the world. Construction on the "Hotel of Doom" began in 1987 and has stopped and started several times. One side of the 1,080-foot building has been outfitted with LED screens used for light shows. At 1,080 feet, North Korea's Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang is one of the tallest unoccupied buildings in the world. The 105-story "Hotel of Doom," which is also North Korea's tallest building, has never hosted a single guest. Construction began almost 40 years ago, and it is not yet complete the cost of finishing the building is estimated to be around 5% of the country's entire GDP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, Ryugyong Hotel remains a subject of international fascination. Here's the story behind the abandoned skyscraper that dominates the capital city's skyline. Construction on the Ryugyong Hotel began in Pyongyang in 1987, but halted due to economic troubles in North Korea. A North Korean woman walks past the site of the 105-story Ryugyong Hotel in the capital city of Pyongyang, Aug. 22, 1990. Work on the 3,000-room pyramidal building, begun almost a decade ago, is expected to be completed in 1992 because of financial problems. Vincent Yu/AP When the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, North Korea lost its main trading partner and source of aid, spurring an economic crisis. The hotel reached its full height in 1992, but the inside was never completed. A traffic policeman is dwarfed by the 105-story Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea, Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019. Construction of the pyramid-shaped hotel, the capital city's most conspicuous landmark, began in 1987 but the work has not been completed and it has never hosted any guests. It is believed to be the tallest unfinished building in the world. Dita Alangkara/AP The Ryugyong Hotel is 105 stories tall and is sometimes referred to as the 105 Building. To this day, it has never hosted a single guest. PYONGYANG, NORTH KOREA - APRIL 29: Construction of the pyramid-shaped Ryugyong hotel, Pyongan Province, Pyongyang, North Korea on April 29, 2010 in Pyongyang, North Korea. Eric Lafforgue/Art In All Of Us/Corbis via Getty Images Despite its aversion to foreign visitors, North Korea does have several functional hotels in Pyongyang. Until the Ryugyong Hotel is completed, the Yanggakdo International Hotel is the city's largest, and the Ryanggang Hotel is widely regarded as the fanciest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its pyramid shape dominates the Pyongyang skyline from miles away. The 105-storey Ryugyong Hotel is seen from a road outside Pyongyang, North Korea Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2011. Greg Baker/AP Each of the building's three sections, which join together at the top, are 100 meters, or 328 feet long, Atlas Obscura reported. At the very top of the building, an eight-story cone-shaped section was supposed to feature revolving restaurants. The top of the 105-storey Ryugyong Hotel, the highest building under construction in North Korea, is seen in Pyongyang, North Korea early October 9, 2015. North Korea is getting ready to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of its ruling Workers' Party of Korea on October 10. Damir Sagolj/Reuters It remains empty, like the rest of the hotel. More external work began on the hotel in 2008 with the installation of glass panels over its entire surface. PYONGYANG, NORTH KOREA - APRIL 29: Construction of the pyramid-shaped Ryugyong hotel, Pyongan Province, Pyongyang, North Korea on April 29, 2010 in Pyongyang, North Korea. Eric Lafforgue/Art In All Of Us/Corbis via Getty Images An Egyptian contractor, the Orascom group, took over the project and revived construction in 2008, Reuters reported. It would cost an estimated $2 billion to finally finish the Ryugyong Hotel, Reuters reported in 2008, citing South Korean media. PYONGYANG, NORTH KOREA - APRIL 29: Construction of the pyramid-shaped Ryugyong hotel, Pyongan Province, Pyongyang, North Korea on April 29, 2010 in Pyongyang, North Korea. Eric Lafforgue/Art In All Of Us/Corbis via Getty Images Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korea's gross domestic product is around $40 billion, according to the CIA World Factbook's 2015 estimate. That makes the cost of finishing the building around 5% of the country's entire GDP. In the meantime, North Korea has found other uses for the building. Fireworks are set off around the 105-storey Ryugyong Hotel to celebrate the May Day anniversary near the Botong River in Pyongyang May 1, 2009 in this picture released by North Korea's KCNA news agency on May 2, 2009. KCNA/Reuters Pyongyang celebrated May Day in 2009 with a fireworks display framing the Ryugyong Hotel. It serves as a dramatic backdrop for performances by art troupes. Members of a Socialist Women's Union propaganda troupe perform a dance and music routine in front of the Ryugyong hotel in Pyongyang on March 9, 2019. - All non-working North Korean women are members of the Socialist Women's Union, whose propaganda troupes are a familiar fixture performing flag-waving and drum routines at intersections and landmarks around Pyongyang during the morning rush-hour period. Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images The troupes' performances usually contain propaganda messages. North Korea sent an art troupe to the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea. It also provides a backdrop for propaganda messages made up of over 100,000 LED screens. In this Dec. 20, 2018 photo, light designer Kim Yong Il smiles during an interview with the Associated Press as his creation, the light show displaying propaganda messages on the facade of the pyramid-shaped Ryugyong Hotel, is seen in the background in Pyongyang, North Korea. For several hours each night, the building that doesn't have electricity inside becomes the backdrop of a massive light show in which more than 100,000 LEDs flash images of famous statues and monuments, bursts of fireworks, party symbols and political slogans. Dita Alangkara/AP In 2018, lighting designer Kim Yong Il created a light show comprised of political slogans and party symbols. It played on the building's surface for several hours every night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2023, banners in front of the hotel marked the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. In 2023, signs in front of the Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea marked the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. KIM WON JIN/AFP via Getty Images North Korea celebrates the 1953 armistice agreement as a victory in the "Grand Fatherland Liberation War." The building itself still lacks electricity, and there's no expected completion date, but there have been new signs of construction progress. North Koreans pay their respects before the statues of late leaders Kim Il Sung, left, and Kim Jong Il, right, at Mansu Hill near the pyramid shaped 105-story Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea, Monday, Dec. 17, 2012. At noon, North Koreans across the country stopped in their tracks to pay tribute to late North Korean leader Kim Jong Il in honor of the first anniversary of his death. Ng Han Guan/AP Alek Sigley, an Australian student who was studying for his master's degree in Korean literature at Kim Il Sung University, posted on X about new signage above the main entrance of the hotel in June 2019. A month later, Sigley was detained for a week and subsequently released after North Korean authorities accused him of committing "spying acts" against the state. He was later expelled from the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Korean authorities are reportedly hoping to find a foreign investor to build a casino in the empty space. North Koreans play a slot machine in Pyongyang on April 12, 2012. Any earnings from the betting can only be used to buy goods in a neighboring shop. North Korea's five-day window to launch a rocket opened on April 12 with Asian countries on alert, as Washington told G8 world powers that the communist state was in flagrant violation of a UN ban. PEDRO UGARTE/AFP via Getty Images Radio Free Asia reported in July 2024 that North Korean leadership is seeking a foreign investor to purchase gambling rights and operate a casino at the Ryugyong Hotel as part of a deal to finish the rest of its interior. Authorities hope to replicate the success and profitability of the casino at Pyongyang's Yanggakdo International Hotel, which has proven popular with tourists, the outlet reported, citing an anonymous North Korean source. It continues to live up to its nickname, "Hotel of Doom." The Ryugyong Hotel rises above the city skyline as it is shrouded by a layer of mist after a torrential rain in Pyongyang, Monday, July 22, 2013. The country is preparing to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. Wong Maye-E/AP The hotel's actual name, "Ryugyong," comes from a historical name for Pyongyang meaning "capital of willows." Read the original article on Business Insider LAS VEGAS (KLAS) North Las Vegas police released body-cam video of a shooting involving a knife-wielding man outside of a home. It happened on Friday, Aug. 8, at around 1:43 p.m. officers responded to a home in the 3100 block of Emmons Avenue near East Lake Mead Boulevard and North Pecos Road regarding a reported domestic disturbance between a man and his mother. North Las Vegas police released body-cam video of a deadly police shooting at home involving a knife-wielding man identified as Sebastian Gomez, 34, on Aug. 8, 2025. (NLVPD) The caller, later identified as the suspects mother, said her son had struck her during the incident and was acting violently. She told dispatchers he had armed himself with a knife, was damaging vehicles in the area, and was yelling threats of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived at the home, they found the suspect outside holding a knife in each hand. Officers gave commands to the suspect, telling him to drop the weapons. However, the suspect refused the commands and began walking away, police said. North Las Vegas police said Sebastian Gomez, 34, was armed with two knives on Aug. 8, 2025, when officers confronted him. (NLVPD) Officers continued to follow the suspect and also continued to give commands. Neighbors were seen coming out of their home, and the officers then asked the suspect to go back inside his home. The man then walked a short distance and then turned and charged towards officers, police said. In response, two NLVPD officers, identified as Saul Macias and Julian Castro, fired their guns at the suspect. Medical aid was given to the suspect, but he was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, police said. No other people were injured during the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Clark County coroners office identified the man killed as Sebastian Gomez, 34, of North Las Vegas. His cause of death was listed as multiple gunshot wounds, with the manner listed as homicide. Gomez had a lengthy criminal history with prior arrests listed below. Unlawful use of an emergency phone number Resisting a public officer with a deadly weapon Domestic battery (multiple offenses) In addition to his criminal record, he faced the following charges in recent months, according to police. Domestic battery (2nd offense) Coercion Assault with deadly weapon Assault with deadly weapon on a protected person Resisting public offer with deadly weapon Obstructing public officer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police officers had previously responded to multiple incidents involving Gomez in recent months, including reports where he was armed with knives and threatening neighbors, police said. Officer Macias has been with the North Las Vegas Police Department since 2018. Officer Castro has been with the North Las Vegas Police Department since 2022. Both officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, police said. It is the third officer-involved shooting in North Las Vegas for 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 KLAS. DES MOINES, Iowa (KCAU) The 43rd Annual Iowa Governors Charity Steer Show at the State Fair on Saturday had multiple winners from northwest Iowa. The Grand Champion Showman Award went to Matt Elbert from Rock Rapids and his steer, Trice. The Peoples Choice Award went to Tucker Frei-Muth from Lytton and his steer, Burt Reynolds. Find all of KCAU 9s coverage of the Iowa State Fair here! The Community Choice Award winner was Merritt Moss from Hull, pictured with his steer, Big Red. Frei-Muth Courtesy: Iowa Governors Charity Steer Show Moss Courtesy: Iowa Governors Charity Steer Show Elbert Courtesy: Iowa Governors Charity Steer Show Steer show officials say $569,000 was raised from the event for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The funds will go to the non-profits three houses, including one here in Sioux City. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports. At Whisky a Go Go, the Doors were the house band during the summer of 1966. Bob Marley and the Wailers recorded a live album at the Roxy. Van Halen got their start at shuttered nightclub Gazzarri's. It's undeniable that West Hollywood's Sunset Strip is a legendary music mecca particularly when it comes to rock 'n' roll. To celebrate the rich history and lore of the iconic 1.7-mile strip, the Sunset Strip Business Improvement District is hosting a free vinyl fair called Spinning Sunset on Saturday from 1 to 7 p.m. Part of the district's annual Summer on Sunset initiative, the free, family-friendly event will feature vinyl DJ sets, brand activations and about 55 booths from local record stores and vintage vendors. Businesses like Hotel Ziggy, Andaz West Hollywood and Book Soup will also be offering discounts, vinyl-themed specials and pop-ups throughout the day. Read more: Mapping Sunset Boulevard's musical history Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With so much to see and experience at Spinning Sunset, here are five things to know before you visit. Yes, there will be vinyl records for sale lots of them It's no secret that vinyl records have been having a moment. According to Statista, 43.6 million EPs/LPs were sold in the U.S. in 2023, up from less than one million in 2006. With the surge in popularity, it's only natural that vinyl fairs are also popping up more frequently. At Spinning Sunset, you can expect to find more than 40 record vendors including In Sheep's Clothing, Vinyldigs and Helix Sounds. Serious diggers may want to arrive on the earlier side to secure rare finds. If you're still on the hunt for a particular record, try checking out VinylCon, a massive music event taking place Aug. 23 and 24 at the California Market Center in DTLA. Founded in 2023 by record enthusiast and event producer Kobi Waldfogel in Philadelphia, VinylCon is coming to L.A. for the first time and will feature more than 80 vendors from some of the nation's most sought-after collectors, as well as professional shops and dealers. There'll be vinyl DJ sets too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Can Blue Note become the new hot spot for L.A. jazz? You'll hear the sounds of today's vinyl DJ scene There's a reason why people still prefer to listen to vinyl records. The sound is fuller, the bass hits you deep in your bones and there's just something electrifying about the imperfect scratchiness that makes you feel like you are actually in the room with the artist. As you're crate digging, you'll be able to experience that feeling firsthand at the fair, where DJs will be throwing down live vinyl sets throughout the day. Among the curated lineup of sound selectors all of whom will be playing various genres is Dino Soccio, El Decomicio and Chulita Vinyl Club, an all-vinyl DJ collective that is made up of women, nonbinary, LGBTQ+ and self-identifying people of color. Other performers include Adrian Younge, an Emmy-winning composer and co-founder of the Jazz is Dead record label and live concert project, and Grammy-nominated musician Mayer Hawthorne. You can have a drink at the former "Riot House" and feel the spirit of legendary rockers Decades before it became the Andaz West Hollywood, this high-rise Hyatt hotel earned the nickname "Riot House" due to the rambunctious behavior of its famous clientele. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was here, in 1966, that Doors frontman Jim Morrison was spotted hanging from the balcony by his fingertips, which led to him being evicted from the hotel. A few years later, in 1972, Led Zeppelin took over the entire 11th floor and "flung beer bottles and furniture out of the windows, aiming for billboards across the road," according to Harper's Bazaar. These are just some of the hard-to-believe, wild stories that came from this iconic building. Although rock stars aren't wreaking havoc there anymore, you can still feel their spirit at the hotel's Riot House restaurant, which will be hosting the official happy hour for Spinning Sunset. So if you need a break from the festivities, stop by the restaurant to order from their specially curated menu, which includes guacamole and tortilla chips for $12, wild shrimp tacos for $18, a Paloma cocktail for $14 and specific wines for $12. There'll be giveaways (just be sure to RSVP) Yes, access to Spinning Sunset is free, but you'll want to RSVP for the chance to win an array of prizes including a one-night stay and breakfast for two at the Mondrian, along with drinks for two at the hotel's Skybar. Other prizes include gift cards to WeHo restaurants like the buzzy Dialog Cafe and Katana, and complimentary bottle service and entry to Keys nightclub. Guests will be required to take a photo at the fair and tag @thesunsetstrip to complete their entry for the giveaway. Winners will be selected via the Instagram page within 24 hours of the event. Attendance is required to claim your prize. But even if you don't win a gift at the fair, there will be other free offerings including complimentary Dippin' Dots ice cream and samples from West Hollywood Edition's signature restaurant, Ardor. After the fair, continue the party at Hotel Ziggy The fair ends at 7 p.m., but the party doesn't have to stop there. Head over to the official after-party at Hotel Ziggy, the music-themed boutique hotel that takes its name from Davie Bowie (a.k.a. Ziggy Stardust). Grab a $10 margarita or a $5 draft beer and enjoy a vinyl DJ set by Dirty Dave. Entry is free and the party goes from 6 to 9 p.m. Afterward, the hotel will be hosting Zap Sessions, a free live music show featuring emerging artists powered by Beach Party Records from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. This function is also free, but RSVP is required. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you'd like to explore more Sunset Strip hot spots, check out Darci at the Roxy or Thorslund and the Stellar Bandits at the Viper Room. Also, Nico Bones, Velicious, Rev It Up and more will be performing at Whisky a Go Go. Sign up for The Wild newsletter to get weekly insider tips on the best of our beaches, trails, parks, deserts, forests and mountains. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Rainier wildfire evacuation orders downgraded Level 3 Leave Now wildfire evacuation orders have been downgraded for people in Rainier, a city in Thurston County. Those who live in the area of Rainier Road between 138th Ave SE and Military Road were told to leave immediately around 4 p.m. Since then, that order has been downgraded to a Level 2 Get Set. Those on the outskirts of that initial target zone have had Level 1 evacuation orders for several hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Level 1 Be Ready order is in effect for people east of Rainier Road to Rainier Acres Road, and south of 128th Ave S. South of 138th Ave. SE to Finian Road are also under this order. The fire burned 26 acres and is about 90% contained as of 10:40 p.m. Although the fire was quickly under control, the flames had ripped through parts of a Rainier neighborhood. I started hosing all these down, hoping to get them wet, but as you can see, it got really close, said resident Al Ceniza. The fire made it all the way to Cenizas property. It burned through his fence, greenhouse and a portion of his garden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I could feel the heat as soon as we came out here, he added. It was a wall of fire. Yeah, all these were burning. Ceniza told KIRO 7 he was home when the flames were headed his way. Our next-door neighbor over here, he banged on my door and hes like Dude, theres a fire! I looked and theres a fire all over so I was like okay its time to grab the dogs and call my family like we gotta get out of here, he explained. Ceniza says he called 911 and started hosing down what he could until the firefighters arrived minutes later. Crews were the ground and, in the air, to try and protect the surrounding homes off Rainier Road. Ceniza was just grateful the flames were stopped short of his home. Thurston County Fire Department, thank you very much. Appreciate your help, he said. Gov. Kelly Ayotte gets onto a ski lift at Mount Sunapee Resort, one of several outdoor recreation areas that anchor the state's tourism industry, during a tour of the facility ahead of a special on-the-road Executive Council meeting on Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo by William Skipworth/New Hampshire Bulletin) On Wednesday, Gov. Kelly Ayotte said New Hampshire has open arms for visitors from Canada. The data suggests that gesture hasnt been enough to persuade them to cross the border. New Hampshire business officials say tourism from Canada is down roughly 30% amid rising tension between the Trump administration and Canadian government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Absolutely the Canadian numbers are lower, Taylor Caswell, commissioner of the states Department of Business and Economic Affairs, told the Governor and Executive Council during a meeting in the border town of Pittsburg last month. I mean, theyre running at about 30% underneath what weve seen in prior years. Though the commissioner couldnt say for sure whats driving this decrease, he floated the strained relations between the U.S. and Canada as a possible culprit. It could be weather, he said. It could be basic economics. It could be gas prices. It could be, as we are seeing now, some difficulty and volatility between the Canadian government and the United States government. Customs and Border Protection data reflects this, too. The number of passenger vehicles traveling into New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine from Canada was about 228,000 in July. Thats down about 105,000 vehicles over last year, a 32% drop. That number has been down from last year every single month since January. In total, the number of vehicles traveling into northern New England from October (the start of the agencys fiscal year) through July was about 1.8 million. That same time period last fiscal year, it was 2.1 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Hampshires outdoor recreation economy, particularly its mountains and lakes, have long brought tourists from both Massachusetts in the south and Canada in the north. Since re-entering the White House in January, President Donald Trump has frequently floated the idea of annexing Canada as the 51st state, at one point alluding to the possible use of military force. The idea has offended Canadians and prompted Prime Minister Mark Carney to rebuke it repeatedly. At one point in a May Oval Office meeting between the two leaders, Carney told the American president Canada is not for sale, wont be for sale, ever, to which Trump replied, Never say never. Trump has also imposed hefty tariffs on Canada, as part of his controversial campaign to eliminate trade deficits with other countries. At the beginning of this month, Trump increased those tariffs from 25% to 35%. The tariffs are ostensibly meant to curb what Trump argues is a fentanyl and drug trafficking issue at the northern border. Goods that fall under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement are exempt from the 35% rate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For her part, Ayotte is scheduled to visit Canada in September for a trade mission. Asked Wednesday about her level of concern about the hit to tourism, she emphasized that we certainly welcome the tourists from Canada. Thats one of the things Im going to just continue to promote on behalf of New Hampshire, she said. Not only that theyre welcome here the Canadians but we have open arms to them. She said her team is also going to be emphasizing business opportunities and relationships between New Hampshire and Canada during her visit next month. The trip is scheduled for Sept. 7-11, and Caswell will be joining her. New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte gets onto a ski lift at Mount Sunapee Resort, one of several outdoor recreation areas that anchor the states tourism industry, during a tour of the facility ahead of a special on-the-road Executive Council meeting on Aug. 13, 2025. (William Skipworth/New Hampshire Bulletin) This story originally appeared on New Hampshire Bulletin. On Wednesday, Gov. Kelly Ayotte said New Hampshire has open arms for visitors from Canada. The data suggests that gesture hasnt been enough to persuade them to cross the border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Hampshire business officials say tourism from Canada is down roughly 30% amid rising tension between the Trump administration and Canadian government. Absolutely the Canadian numbers are lower, Taylor Caswell, commissioner of the states Department of Business and Economic Affairs, told the Governor and Executive Council during a meeting in the border town of Pittsburg last month. I mean, theyre running at about 30% underneath what weve seen in prior years. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Though the commissioner couldnt say for sure whats driving this decrease, he floated the strained relations between the U.S. and Canada as a possible culprit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It could be weather, he said. It could be basic economics. It could be gas prices. It could be, as we are seeing now, some difficulty and volatility between the Canadian government and the United States government. Customs and Border Protection data reflects this, too. The number of passenger vehicles traveling into New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine from Canada was about 228,000 in July. Thats down about 105,000 vehicles over last year, a 32% drop. That number has been down from last year every single month since January. In total, the number of vehicles traveling into northern New England from October (the start of the agencys fiscal year) through July was about 1.8 million. That same time period last fiscal year, it was 2.1 million. New Hampshires outdoor recreation economy, particularly its mountains and lakes, have long brought tourists from both Massachusetts in the south and Canada in the north. Since re-entering the White House in January, President Donald Trump has frequently floated the idea of annexing Canada as the 51st state, at one point alluding to the possible use of military force. The idea has offended Canadians and prompted Prime Minister Mark Carney to rebuke it repeatedly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point in a May Oval Office meeting between the two leaders, Carney told the American president Canada is not for sale, wont be for sale, ever, to which Trump replied, Never say never. Trump has also imposed hefty tariffs on Canada, as part of his controversial campaign to eliminate trade deficits with other countries. At the beginning of this month, Trump increased those tariffs from 25% to 35%. The tariffs are ostensibly meant to curb what Trump argues is a fentanyl and drug trafficking issue at the northern border. Goods that fall under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement are exempt from the 35% rate. For her part, Ayotte is scheduled to visit Canada in September for a trade mission. Asked Wednesday about her level of concern about the hit to tourism, she emphasized that we certainly welcome the tourists from Canada. Thats one of the things Im going to just continue to promote on behalf of New Hampshire, she said. Not only that theyre welcome here the Canadians but we have open arms to them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said her team is also going to be emphasizing business opportunities and relationships between New Hampshire and Canada during her visit next month. The trip is scheduled for Sept. 7-11, and Caswell will be joining her. New Hampshire Bulletin is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. New Hampshire Bulletin maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Dana Wormald for questions: info@newhampshirebulletin.com. On 13 August the US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on four men and 13 companies operating in and around the popular Mexican tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco state, accused of scamming US tourists for the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG). End of preview - This article contains approximately 391 words. Subscribers: Log in now to read the full article Not a Subscriber? Choose from one of the following options Nursing students are being encouraged to consider a career in general practice to help the NHS tackle its ongoing staffing "crisis". Funded by NHS England, Sheffield Hallam University (SHU) has developed a new module designed to give students an insight into the role. According to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) nearly a quarter - 23% - of general practice nursing roles are vacant. Dr Robin Lewis, Senior Lecturer in Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences at SHU, said he hoped the course would "address the workforce crisis, whilst ensuring the NHS has skilled health professionals for the future". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shortage of general practice nurses has been put down to a number of factors, including ageing, outdated attitudes, the preference for experienced nurses, Covid, pay, conditions and morale. Sarah Dodsworth from the RCN Yorkshire & the Humber said: "General practice nursing staff are paramount to the success of the NHS [yet] almost a third of GP nursing staff went without a pay rise last year. So it's utterly unsurprising that morale is poor." Dr Lewis added: "We've known about about the demographics of the practice nurses for a while now - [back in] 2016 we knew there was a problem then. "The hardest part was convincing GPs, and Covid set us back five years." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The course, being offered in Sheffield and at University Campus Doncaster, is taught by "nurse educators" currently working in general practice. Module lead Emma Parker said "Traditionally there is this thought that nurses need lots of years of experience - this module [tries to] dispel these myths and encourage newly qualified nurses into primary health nursing." Iona Smith ,33, who is in the final year of her nursing course, said she wanted to pursue a career in general practice after enjoying her GP placement. She said: "I loved it. I flourished and my confidence grew. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's a lot of us who want to go down that route, which means that there's going to be a workforce for longer, which is good." A spokesperson for NHS England said it was working to expand access to and awareness of practice nursing as part of the government's 10-year plan, adding that more than 300 nurses had taken part in nursing programmes such as the one at Sheffield Hallam University. Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here. Related internet links More stories like this NEW YORK 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. ________ A New York teenager has died in a jet ski accident while on a family vacation in Florida. Rachel Aliza Nisanov, 13, was riding on a jet ski with her sister Tuesday in the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale when their watercraft crashed, according to her family and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC preliminary report said the watercraft lost control and crashed into a concrete dock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fort Lauderdale Fire and Rescue said 911 calls came in around 3:30 p.m. reporting the water accident near the 2800 block of NE 24th Court. Both girls were taken to Broward Health Medical Center, where Rachel died from her injuries. Her 16-year-old sister, Aviva Bracha Nisanov, who was driving the jet ski, remains in critical but stable condition, NBC South Florida reported. The family trip to Florida was to celebrate Rachels graduation, her brother Yonah Nisanov told the station. He remembered his sister as "just a kind person ... a spiritual person. Kindhearted, always going the extra mile." "They were coming back to the dock from what I understand, and they lost control and they hit the dock, and they both went flying and hit the dock," Yonah said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yonah recalled that their father Shlomo Nisanov, a well-known rabbi in New York was also on a personal watercraft at the time of the crash. After he saw the accident, he jumped into the water, desperately trying to save his girls. "My father doesnt even know how to swim. He jumped in, my sisters were unconscious, their life jackets were on, they were lying flat, and my father jumped in and scraped up his hands, feet, his back all over to save them, and he did what he could, and thank God one of them was able to, and the other one, unfortunately didnt make it," Yonah said. "And we dont understand why it happened, but we believe that this is whats meant to be, and God is going to give us the strength to go forward and to strengthen ourselves," he added. Rachels body was flown to New York, where a funeral will be held Thursday before her body is flown to Israel and buried in Jerusalem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The owner of the watercraft company involved said the sisters, their parents and a supervising employee were on a watercraft when the incident happened. The owner told NBC Miami that while Florida law requires a person to be at least 14 years old to operate a watercraft, he needs a driver to be at least 16 years old, like Aviva. Fort Lauderdale police and the FWC are investigating. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams announced Thursday her Democratic majority will vote to override Mayor Adams vetoes of bills they passed that would increase salaries for grocery delivery workers and decriminalize unlicensed street vending. In a press conference at City Hall, the speaker said the mayors latest vetoes, issued in the past couple weeks, are anti-working class and play into the hands of President Trump, whose administration is engaged in an aggressive crackdown on immigrants in New York, many of whom work as street vendors. We look forward to overriding the mayors senseless, anti-worker vetoes in the coming weeks, Speaker Adams told reporters, adding the Councils more than likely to hold the override votes at its next full meeting on Sept. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zachary Nosanchuk, a spokesman for Mayor Adams, defended the mayors move on the grocery delivery bill, saying that was about ensuring food prices arent driven even higher in the city. He didnt address the street vending veto. We do not take the power of a veto lightly, but we will always use it to fight for a fairer, more affordable future for all New Yorkers, he said. All bills in question passed the Council with veto-proof majorities, meaning it likely wont be a hard lift for the speaker to pull off overrides. The bill related to street vending would make it so hawking food or merchandise on the streets without a city license would be subject to civil penalties as opposed to criminal summonses, as is currently the case. Council Democrats have argued that would create a fairer system and help shield immigrant street vendors at a time Trumps administration is targeting them for mass deportations, but the mayor vetoed the bill last Monday, contending it would pose a public safety issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the other front, the Council passed bills last month thatd put grocery delivery workers on a path to a guaranteed minimum of wage of about $21. That salary level would put them on par with restaurant delivery workers, who got such a wage floor guarantee as part of a reform enacted by the Council this spring that the mayor supported. But the mayor vetoed the grocery delivery-related measures Wednesday, arguing they would result in higher food costs for some New Yorkers at a time of heightened cost of living concerns. The speaker said she was particularly perplexed by that veto, noting its delivery service corporations like Amazon and Instacart thatd face increased costs, not grocery stores. She also noted the mayors administration until recently supported the grocery delivery worker bills. It boggles the mind The administration was for this legislation until they were not a few days ago, we dont understand what happened, she said. Prior to his veto, Adams administration was heavily lobbied by Amazon and Instacart, which are opposed to the wage increases. HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) Harlem Hospital is one of several locations where people were exposed to Legionnaires disease since the outbreak in Central Harlem, officials said Thursday. The spread began in Central Harlem on July 25 with five reported cases of the disease. Since then, 99 confirmed cases have been documented, including four deaths and 17 hospitalizations, according to the citys Health Department. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the patients were treated at Harlem Hospital, officials said. Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this cluster of Legionnaires, in particular the friends and loved ones of the three New Yorkers we lost to this disease, Mayor Eric Adams said. On Thursday, health officials held a press conference to announce locations found to be the origin points of the outbreak. Locations confirmed are: NYC Health + Hospitals Harlem Hospital, 506 Lenox Ave BRP Companies, Lafayette Development LLC, 2239 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd Commonwealth Local Development, 301 West 124th St CUNY City College Marshak Science Building, 181 Convent Ave Harlem Center Condo, 317 Lenox Ave NYC Economic Development Corporation, 40 West 137th St NYC Health Department Central Harlem Sexual Health Clinic, 2238 Fifth Ave The New York Hotel Trades Council Harlem Health Center, 133 Morningside Ave Wharton Properties, 100 West 125th St (3 of 8 towers) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State All of the locations listed have since been decontaminated and no longer pose a threat, according to health officials. 12 cooling towers in Central Harlem tested positive for live Legionella bacteria, which grows in warm-water areas and is what causes Legionnaires disease. Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that 11 of the 12 towers have been remediated. The final tower will be remediated on Friday, Adams said. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said reports of new cases have slowed down, which is typically a sign of containing the bacteria. Efforts are still ongoing to stop the spread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our expert inspectors will continue to work with building owners to ensure full compliance, Dr. Morse said. The disease can spread by breathing in water vapor that contains the bacteria in places like hot tubs, swimming pools, hot water tanks and heaters, according to the Mayo Clinic. Flu-like symptoms can be linked to Legionnaires, including cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, or difficulty breathing. Health officials encourage anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms in the ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039 to seek medical attention immediately. Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. NEW YORK Mayor Eric Adams called on Albany lawmakers Thursday to grant New York City powers to forcibly hospitalize people struggling with drug addiction a proposal that was quickly met with intense pushback from civil rights and homeless advocates. Adams plan unveiled during a Midtown event hosted by the conservative Manhattan Institute proposes the state Legislature acts to expand the involuntary commitment standards during next years legislative session. The plan would build on a provision Albany included in this years state budget that gave the city expanded authority to hospitalize homeless people against their will if theyre dealing with severe mental health issues. Adams, addressing a conservative crowd at the Midtown Hilton, characterized the new proposal as a lifeline for those in the throes of drug addiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Doctors should have the ability to seek a court order to mandate treatment for substance abuse even if the persons addiction makes them unwilling to accept treatment on their own, Adams said to applause, adding that such an expansion would become the single most effective tool to help us end the drug abuse crisis we see all around us. The plan faces a number of obstacles. Lawmakers in Albany may balk at the expanded powers, while Adams, reeling from record low approval ratings and continued fallout from his corruption indictment, faces a difficult path to reelection in Novembers election, with polls showing hes unlikely to be mayor next year. The proposal also sparked immediate pushback from the advocacy community. The Legal Aid Society, which by statute represents New York Citys homeless population, blasted Adams latest proposal as raising serious civil rights concerns and doing nothing to address the root causes of substance use. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the mayor were serious about saving lives, he would invest in proven harm reduction strategies, voluntary treatment, permanent housing, and community-based supports not policies that amount to state-sanctioned incarceration in medical settings, the group said in a statement. Expanding involuntary commitment laws will not solve the drug war or end the overdose crisis; it will only deepen mistrust, waste resources, and cause lasting harm to the very people the city claims to want to help. According to a fact-sheet released by Adams office, the plan, dubbed the Compassionate Interventions Act, would fill a gap in state law that prevents clinicians and police officers from forcing a person into treatment primarily due to suspected substance use disorder. Under the reforms adopted by Albany this year, the city can involuntarily commit anyone who appears mentally ill, and the new proposal says a similar standard should exist for severe drug addicts. The plan stresses the call on whether to force a person into treatment for substance abuse would ultimately lie with a medical professional. The Adams plan says that would bring New York in line with 37 other states that have similar laws. Florida has had a similar law on the books since 1993, and homeless advocates have long argued it infringes on peoples civil liberties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The State Assembly and State Senate, which are controlled by super majorities of Democrats, were for years skeptical of the mayors proposal to expand powers related to involuntary commitments of mentally ill individuals. The proposal to further expand the protocols to include drug addicts could thereby be a tough sell in the capital, especially given Adams longshot chances at reelection. After his speech, Adams was asked in a Q&A with Manhattan Institute President Reihan Salam how he envisions being able to rally support for the proposal, given the anticipated pushback in Albany. Our statehouses and even our City Council they have been hijacked by the numerical minority with far extremist, far left extremist views, and they have gotten in the way, the noise has gotten in the way of real progress around these quality of life issues, Adams replied. And so the first thing that I did when I became mayor, I went out and purchased a bunch of ear plugs and put them in my ears so I could ignore the noise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donna Lieberman, the executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, said Adams proposal comes from the same old, failed playbook. Forced treatment can greatly increase the risk of a fatal overdose, raises serious due process and civil liberties concerns, and contributes to harmful stereotypes about people with substance use disorders, she said. On the funding question, Adams plan proposes to allocate a $27 million new investment in expanding services for those in need of addiction care. It was not clear over how long of a period that funding would be allocated, and the blueprint is light on details on what exactly the new services would involve. Spokespeople for Gov. Hochul and state legislative leaders didnt immediately return requests for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fabien Levy, Adams deputy mayor for communications, said he didnt know whether Adams team has had conversations with the governor about the proposal. In his speech, Adams argued the drug addiction crisis has been a problem in the city for years. Asked by the Daily News why Adams is first now rolling out the new proposal, Randy Mastro, his first deputy mayor, said, Its always right to do the right thing. This administration has worked so hard for the past three and a half years to address these issues, and were going to continue to put out policies, Mastro said. _____ NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) A Brooklyn student detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement at a routine hearing was alone, seeking asylum in the United States, elected officials said. On Thursday, officials and advocates called for the release of 20-year-old Mamadou Mouctar Diallo, who was detained last week, according to City Council Member Lincoln Restler. He has since been moved to Pennsylvania, Comptroller Brad Lander said. NY high school grad detained by ICE released Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Diallo] did the right thing. He showed up for his routine check-in. And he was abducted, a student seeking a better life, City Council Member Rita Joseph said. Diallo came to the United States last year from West Africa, officials said. Over the past year, Diallo has finished a culinary internship and security guard training, and was a stellar student, Restler said. Mouctar has followed every single rule. He has done things exactly the right way. He is seeking asylum here in the United States. He has become deeply enmeshed in our Brooklyn community, Restler said. In a statement to PIX11 News, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said Diallo crossed the southern border illegally. He was apprehended by Customs and Border Protection in 2024 and then released, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings, McLaughlin said. Diallo is at least the third public school student to be detained by ICE in New York City. In May, a 20-year-old Bronx high school student was detained amid his asylum process, followed by an 11th grader detained in June. In late July, a 20-year-old graduate of Scarsdale High School was detained by ICE after a routine visa hearing. New York City has become the epicenter of Trumps deportation efforts, with many apprehensions happening at 26 Federal Plaza, where Lander was put in custody while accompanying a person out of immigration court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What were not going to allow is our young people, the future of our city, kids without their families trying to make it here, to be abducted, Lander 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. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. ST. MARTIN PARISH, La. (KLFY) Ochsner St. Martin Hospital held a dedication ceremony for its newly completed helipad, named in memory of Richard Zuschlag, the late cofounder, chairman and CEO of Acadian Ambulance Service. The new helipad significantly enhances the hospitals ability to provide critical care and rapid transport for patients in need. The ceremony was attended by members of the Zuschlag family, Ochsner Health leadership, representatives from Acadian Ambulance and Air Med and local officials. The helipad will serve as a vital asset for emergency medical services, allowing for faster and more efficient transfers of critically ill or injured patients to higher levels of care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The helipad was made possible by St. Martin Parish Hospital Service District No. 2 (HSD #2), in partnership with Acadian Ambulance Service. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KLFY Daily Digest Acadian Chairman of the Board Fred Mills spoke at the dedication. Acadian and St. Martin Hospital grew together, and what a fabulous time we have to tell the Zuschlag family and the hospital staff thank you, said Mills. Without the partnership of Lafayette General and St. Martin Hospital, as well as Ochsner, we wouldnt be here today. Zuschlag was a pioneer in emergency medical services. Under his leadership, Acadian Ambulance grew from a small operation into one of the largest and most respected ambulance services in the nation, known for its innovation and commitment to patient care. His dedication to community service and philanthropic efforts profoundly impacted the lives of many across Louisiana and beyond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new helipad will play a crucial role in Ochsner St. Martin Hospitals ability to provide timely and effective care, further strengthening the healthcare infrastructure of St. Martin Parish and the surrounding communities. Latest news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLFY.com. GIBSON CITY, Ill. (WCIA) A Gibson City Police officer and a Ford County Sheriffs deputy hurt last weekend in a shooting are both out of the hospital as the manhunt for the suspected shooter continues. Illinois State Police said in a news release that the officer and deputy were released on Aug. 10, the day after they were shot in Gibson City while responding to a report of a naked man on Ash Street. That man, identified as 70-year-old David D. Jordan of Gibson City, allegedly opened fire on the two as they tried to make contact with him. ISP officials also shared more details about the officer and deputy and their injuries. They said the Ford County Sheriffs deputy is a 6-year veteran who was shot in the left knee and the left arm, while the Gibson City Police officer has served for one year and was shot in the left hip. Neither the officer nor the deputy fired their weapons during the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both are now on paid administrative leave. Search for David Jordan continues in Central Illinois Jordan was last seen at his home on Ash Street, which burned to the ground shortly after the shooting. His whereabouts are unknown, and he is considered armed and dangerous. A possible sighting of Jordan in Sibley led to a large police presence in that town on Tuesday and into Wednesday. State Police said in their update on Thursday that the search for Jordan is ongoing. Anybody who has any information about Jordans whereabouts is asked to call their local police department or submit a tip on the State Police crime tip website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ISP does not believe there to be an active threat to the public, but citizens are asked not to approach Jordan if they encounter him, and instead call 911, officials added. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. The verdict is in. The detection of a cosmic neutrino that smashed into Earth with an unprecedented energy level is not a glitch or an error, but a real detection of a real particle. In February 2023, a detector called KM3NeT, located deep under the Mediterranean Sea, picked up a signal that seemed to indicate a neutrino with a record-shattering energy of 220 petaelectronvolts (PeV). For reference, the previous record was a mere 10 PeV. Now, an exhaustive analysis of all the data on and around the event, designated KM3-230213A, not only supports the conclusions that the signal was caused by a 220-PeV neutrino, but adds to the mystery about where the heck in the Universe it came from. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: For The First Time, We've Detected a 'Ghost Particle' Coming From a Shredded Star "The patterns of light detected for KM3-230213A show a clear match to what is expected from a relativistic particle crossing the detector, most likely a muon, ruling out the possibility of a glitch," the KM3NeT Collaboration told ScienceAlert. "Thanks to the reconstructed energy and direction of this muon, the most likely scenario by far is that the muon originated in the interaction of an astrophysical neutrino in proximity to the detector, making it the most natural explanation." YouTube Thumbnail Neutrinos are shockingly common in the Universe among the most abundant particles out there, generated by energetic circumstances, like stellar fusion, or supernova explosions. But they have no electric charge, their mass is almost zero, and they barely interact with other particles they encounter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds of billions of neutrinos are streaming through your body right now, just passing on through like ghosts. That's why they're affectionately known as ghost particles. This avoidant particle personality poses something of a problem: it makes neutrinos almost impossible to detect. Every now and again, however, a neutrino smacks into another particle, an event that creates a small shower of particles such as muons and photons particles of light. This means a very faint glow that the right detector can pick up. KM3NeT is just such a detector array. It's submerged 3,450 meters (11,320 feet) under the surface of the ocean, a depth at which no sunlight can penetrate. In such complete darkness, neutrino events shine like tiny beacons. One of the KM3NeT digital optical modules, with photodetectors optimized for the faint light of neutrino events. (KM3Net) This is what led to the detection of KM3-230213A you can read about that here but since other detectors operating far longer have come nowhere close to such a high energy detection, some uncertainty remained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Given that other experiments, IceCube and Auger in particular, have been operating for more than a decade and have previously performed searches for ultra-high-energy neutrinos but have not detected one so far, we investigate the probability that the neutrino observed by KM3NeT is the first such neutrino observed," the KM3Net collaboration explained. "We find that, despite a rather low probability of happening approximately 1 in 100 chance it is possible that the only event seen so far is in KM3NeT and not in IceCube and Pierre Auger; therefore, the three measurements do not disagree." Visual impression of the ultra-high energy neutrino event observed in KM3NeT/ARCA. ( KM3NeT The researchers also investigated how KM3-230213A fits into the bigger neutrino picture how many neutrinos are streaming through the Universe, and the distribution of energies. The addition of the 220-PeV neutrino results in more consistent predictions of neutrino behavior. Finally, and perhaps most interestingly, the paper examined whether KM3-230213A suggests the presence of a new component or process that produces ultra-high-energy neutrinos, compared to the relatively known processes behind the rest of the neutrinos detected to date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is relevant because it is expected that such a new component would arise at ultra-high energies, due to 'cosmogenic neutrinos', which are neutrinos produced by the interaction of cosmic rays with the cosmic microwave background, the first observable light of the Universe emitted about 13.8 billion years ago," the Collaboration said. "Alternatively, a new component could be due to a new population of astrophysical objects emitting ultra-high-energy neutrinos." A reconstruction of the cosmic microwave background. ( NASA/WMAP Science Team Alas, the analysis was unable to determine whether there's a new component or not. Possible origins of the neutrino still include ejection from the extreme environment of a galactic center, the gamma-ray bursts emitted by exploding stars, or an interaction with the cosmic microwave background. One thing that scientists do think, though, is that it's very, very unlikely that the neutrino originated within the Milky Way galaxy. So wherever it's from, KM3-230213A was born somewhere extreme and very distant. Work is currently underway to try and refine the neutrino's trajectory, to hopefully come closer to tracing its origin point. So we're far from hearing the last from KM3-230213A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "KM3-230213A opened a new window on ultra-high-energy neutrino astronomy," the Collaboration said. "Our analysis is the first effort to combine the observations of multiple telescopes over a wide energy range to characterize the ultra-high-energy spectrum. This represents our best chance to gain knowledge on the most extreme objects that populate our Universe." The paper has been published in Physical Review X. Related News The Norwegian government is taking strong steps to support at-risk fish populations, including coastal cod, as it looks to save and strengthen one of the region's most unique ecosystems. According to The Fishing Daily, the Norwegian government has introduced zero-fishing areas within the iconic Oslo Fjord. The measures will limit where fishing can take place and have been paired with stricter regulations regarding the types of equipment that can be used by commercial and recreational fishermen in the area. The no-fishing zones will be implemented at the beginning of 2026. All fishing will be banned in the three zones, with the exception of children crab fishing with single lines. Exemptions may be given for the removal of Pacific oysters, which are invasive to the area, as well as for research and educational purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The restrictions on equipment will begin on October 1 for recreational fishermen and on January 1 of next year for commercial fishing. In areas where fishing is permitted, the number of pots used for pot fishing will be limited. And certain kinds of commercial fishing tools such as bottom-set gear used to catch bottom fish and collection bags used with shrimp and crayfish trawls will be prohibited. These restrictions are aimed at reducing the bycatch or unintentional catch of the vulnerable cod. The Oslo Fjord has been subject to pollution and other ecosystem hazards for some time. With sewage and agricultural runoff polluting the fjord and with overfishing challenging cod populations in particular, the government tried several measures in 2019. Officials are now taking further action. "The measures we are now adopting for the Oslo Fjord will help ensure that future generations will also enjoy a clean and rich Oslo Fjord," Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Minister of Climate and Environment, said, per The Fishing Daily. "These are measures that are absolutely necessary to allow fish stocks and life on the fjord bottom to rebuild." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is growing evidence indicating that fishing bans can bolster fish populations. Limited bans have been implemented in places like Hawai'i, and lobster bans have gone into effect off the coast of New England. Norway is hoping its bans will be enough to strengthen local fish populations and stabilize a beloved and iconic ecosystem. 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. It's no secret that many of the most well-known celebrities own sprawling luxury properties with money to spare but to the average individual, some of these residences and lifestyles can seem a bit bizarre, to say the least. In the r/travisandtaylor subreddit, one user recently brought scathing attention to the extravagance of pop star Taylor Swift's seasonal home in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, valued at an estimated $17 million. In fact, the state of Rhode Island has proposed a tax on all non-primary residences worth over $1 million, and the so-nicknamed "Taylor Swift Tax" is bringing Swift's estate, among others like it, into the spotlight, according to the New York Post article from June spotlighted on Reddit. Photo Credit: Reddit While owning a large property isn't a direct burden on the environment, large mansions often go hand-in-hand with habits of overconsumption regarding space, utilities, and other resources. Taylor Swift, for instance, owns eight homes across the U.S., according to the Wall Street Journal, and keeping the lights on and the temperature controlled across each of them takes quite the toll on the planet. After all, most conventional means of generating electricity release planet-heating carbon pollution into the atmosphere. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, there's nothing outright wrong about owning a large home, especially if it's what you and your cohabitants require. The "tiny home" lifestyle emerging around the country might prove a supremely effective way to optimize limited space and resources, but extreme minimalism may not be for everyone. Instead, you can offset the carbon costs of your traditional home regardless of its size with simple steps like installing solar panels, ensuring that your electricity comes pollution-free while bringing your energy costs down near zero. Tools like EnergySage can get you started on solar by connecting you with local installation services and helping you save up to $10,000 on the process. Responses to the wealth displays of inordinately rich celebrities often tend to be wary if not outright irked, and comments under this latest Reddit post prove no different. "$136k is chump change to her," one user wrote, referring to the additional taxes Swift would undertake under the proposed law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "AGREED," added another. "Tax the s*** out of her and everyone else taking up massive pieces of coastline with their mega-mansions and not even being there to enjoy it." In July, Thomson Reuters reported that Rhode Island had enacted the "Non-Owner-Occupied Residential Property" tax "for taxable years beginning on or after July 1, 2026." It added: "The tax is measured by the assessed value of the real estate at the rate of $2.50 for each $500, or fractional part, of the assessed value in excess of $1 million. " 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. (WBRE/WYOU) 28/22 News is learning more about the EBT outages that briefly prevented millions of Pennsylvanians from buying food. The EBT system is how people access their SNAP food benefits. The system went down more than once during the past week, most recently on Monday night for a little less than an hour. Residents learn valuable lessons at Beaver Meadows scam seminar PAs Department of Human Services says the outages impacted multiple states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New Jersey-based Conduent said its technicians addressed the brief outages quickly. Its unclear which other states were affected. The company recently listed PA as one of 12 states that got a security upgrade. However, they say the outage was not because of that upgrade. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. The Indonesian government is allowing a coal-fired power plant in Central Java to use seawater for cooling, sparking community resistance as fishers report a decline in catches and dividing locals forced to choose between compensation or preserving their way of life. What's happening? Mongabay reported that Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries approved a permit allowing PT Bhimasena Power Indonesia, the operator of the Batang coal plant, to use seawater for non-energy-related activities such as cooling or for potable water production. "This effort also supports transparency and accountability in sustainable marine industries," said Frista Yorhanita, the ministry's director of marine resources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, critics vehemently disagreed with the July 22 decision. Organizations such as Greenpeace and the People's Coalition for Fisheries Justice said that the project would further harm fishers and communities who relied on Indonesia's waters for income and food. "The use of seawater in power plant operations, especially at the scale of the Batang plant, has significant impacts on the aquatic environment and water quality essential for marine life," Greenpeace Southeast Asia ocean campaigner Arifsyah Nasution told Mongabay. Why is this important? The economy and culture in Central Java's Batang district depend on marine resources, but thermal coal plant operations are threatening locals' livelihoods and way of life. Even before the government greenlit the plan to use seawater cooling a process that Greenpeace said causes power plants to "essentially become giant fish blenders" thermal coal plant operations had degraded water quality in Indonesia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Citing a study from Gadjah Mada University's Center for Social Studies and Poverty Alleviation, the People's Coalition for Fisheries Justice said that shrimpers have reported up to a 50% decline in their income and daily catches since the Batang plant began operating at full capacity in 2022, per Mongabay. Allowing the Batang plant to use seawater for cooling could further harm the area's delicate marine ecosystems, including its mangrove forests (which absorb carbon and protect against storm surges) and coral reefs (which contain compounds found in modern medicines). What is being done about this? Indonesia generates most of its electricity from coal, per the International Energy Agency. While numerous efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources are underway, Nasution told Mongabay that the government should "urgently" promote and support "the effective and efficient development of renewable energy" to phase out the world's dirtiest and deadliest fuel. Meanwhile, many locals are resisting BPI's presence, even though they have not received compensation such as the 700 farmers who controversially took deals and have dealt with intimidation from security forces, including the military, as reported by Mongabay. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These are the issues that should be closely monitored and evaluated by the ministry to ensure it stands in support of traditional fishers whose rights have been increasingly eroded by industrial operations, particularly coal-fired power plants along coastal areas and small islands," People's Coalition for Fisheries Justice secretary-general Susan Herawati said in a statement to Mongabay. "This disconnect highlights the growing gap between the urgent needs of coastal communities and the ministry's current revenue-driven agenda." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. The state of New Jersey is taking the act of protecting rare wildlife a step further by unveiling new tech that allows residents of the state to report wildlife sightings. In a release on the New Jersey Fish and Wildlife website, the department introduced the NJ Wildlife Tracker, an app people can use on a computer or cellphone to report rare wildlife sightings or any kind of wildlife seen on roadways. By letting residents help track wildlife, the state's Connecting Habitat Across New Jersey team can better understand which areas of New Jersey are problematic for wildlife. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In particular, resident tracking will allow CHANJ to identify which roadways are deadliest to wildlife, which can aid them in creating safer road crossings for these animals. Additionally, resident tracking of endangered and rare wildlife species helps New Jersey's Natural Heritage/Biotics keep its inventory up to date. This inventory helps to track population trends, monitor habitat occupancy, and map habitats, all of which enable rarer species to recover. The release explained, "New Jersey's Natural Heritage record is also a powerful conservation tool for land-users and natural area managers." This new tech is an excellent opportunity for everyday residents to contribute to conservation efforts across the state. Not everyone has the opportunity to do research or work in conservation fields, but anyone can report where and when they saw a rare animal or spotted an animal too close to a roadway. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wildlife tracker is also a great way to give residents a chance to help protect animals in the state, which benefits the animals, especially the rarer ones. Protecting wildlife species helps preserve local ecosystems and biodiversity, as well, since an unexpected reduction of animal species can negatively impact the plants, soil, water, and people around them. As one person stated on the YouTube video about the new wildlife tracker, "You never know what type of wild creatures you'll see or help when you're outdoors." 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. Britain's foreign minister David Lammy has referred himself to the environment watchdog after going fishing in a carp pond with US Vice President JD Vance without a licence, the UK foreign office said on Wednesday. Lammy, who failed to catch any fish during the fishing session at his country retreat in Chevening in Kent, southeast of London, did not have the rod licence needed to angle for freshwater fish like carp. "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," a Foreign Office spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the visit, Vance, who is on holiday with his family in the UK, joked: "Unfortunately, the one strain on the special relationship is that all of my kids caught fish, but the foreign secretary did not." The foreign office clarified that the relevant licences were purchased after Lammy was "made aware" of the need. "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 Britain's fisheries." After a weekend stay at Chevening, Vance continued his holiday in the Cotswolds countryside in southwest England, where locals held a "Vance not welcome party" to protest against his visit and the heavy security presence. aks/jkb/bc PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) Eligible Brown University Health patients with Medicare Advantage plans through UnitedHealthcare will soon have an opportunity to change insurers, spokespeople for UHC and Rhode Islands Office of Healthy Aging (OHA) have confirmed to 12 News. On July 31, the R.I. Attorney Generals Office announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) had approved a special enrollment period (SEP) for those enrolled in UnitedHealthcare [Medicare Advantage] plans who are assigned to, are currently receiving care from, or have received care within the past three months from Brown Healths hospitals in Rhode Island. LEARN MORE: UHC Medicare Advantage patients in RI granted special enrollment period Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rhode Island, The Miriam, Hasbro Childrens and Newport hospitals have all been considered out of network for UHC Medicare Advantage recipients since July 1, though physicians associated with Brown Health and the groups urgent care clinics will continue to accept UHCs Medicare Advantage plans through at least June 30, 2026, as will St. Annes Hospital and Morton Hospital in Massachusetts. The SEP begins when a UHC Medicare Advantage member receives notice of their eligibility from the insurer and lasts two calendar months. According to OHA spokesperson Steven Boudreau, UHC mailed the letters to eligible members on Friday, Aug. 8. Approximately 12,800 members across New England will receive letters, with the majority located in Rhode Island, Boudreau said. These letters direct beneficiaries to call 1-800-Medicare and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program for support. A UHC spokesperson confirmed on Monday that the letters have been postmarked, but stressed they were only sent to those who are eligible to switch insurers before Medicares annual open enrollment period. UHCs Dual Special Needs Plan (which is for those with both Medicare and Medicaid) and Group Retiree Medicare Advantage plans are excluded from the SEP, he told 12 News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Medicare recipients, even those not eligible for the SEP, are encouraged to contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) if they have any questions about their health insurance. In Rhode Island, that phone number is 888-884-8721. What is Medicare Advantage? Is my health care affected? Medicare Advantage is a type of health plan offered by Medicare-approved private companies as an alternative to original Medicare. Like Medicare, it is available for Americans ages 65 and older, as well as those with certain severe disabilities or illnesses. Federal data shows that about 60% of Rhode Island Medicare recipients have Medicare Advantage plans. In Rhode Island, theyre offered by Aetna, Blue Cross & Blue Shield and UHC. Brown Health hospitals will continue accepting UHCs Medicaid and commercial health insurance plans, as well as Medicare Advantage plans from other providers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, a UHC spokesperson stressed that in an emergency, members should go to the nearest hospital, even if its not in-network, as the company covers emergency visits at its in-network benefit level. 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. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. After President Donald Trump and Republicans in Congress blocked money for Planned Parenthood, Ohio lawmakers are following suit. House Bill 410, introduced by two Southwest Ohio Republicans, would mirror the one-year federal ban on Medicaid paying for health care offered by abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood. Federal and state law already prohibit Medicaid, a taxpayer-funded health insurance for low-income Ohioans, from paying for nearly all abortions. The federal cut, included in Trump's signature "Big, Beautiful Bill," would prevent Planned Parenthood from billing Medicaid for contraception, sexually transmitted infection testing, gender-affirming care and preventative care visits. A federal judge has temporarily blocked that funding cut and ruled it is likely unconstitutional. But that's not the end of the legal battle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get The Scoop!: Sign up for our weekly Ohio politics newsletter Meanwhile, Ohio's Planned Parenthood locations are already feeling the impact. Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio closed health centers in Springfield and Hamilton. Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio shuttered its Midtown Cleveland location and now faces layoffs. Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio stands to lose about $10 million if the federal Medicaid cuts take effect, said Lauren Blauvelt, PPGOH's chief external affairs officer. About 43% of the 50,550 patients that Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio served in 2024 were on Medicaid. For Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region, 41% of patients used Medicaid, communications manager Maya McKenzie said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a very serious attack that is already bad enough from the federal level, and does not need to be continued at the state level," Blauvelt said. "Ultimately, the attack and the impact are felt by our patients who cannot use their insurance to go to their provider of choice." Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio President & CEO Erica Wilson-Domer and PPRx Pharmacy Director Dr. Christopher Smurthwaite give a tour of the new PPRx Pharmacy. Federal and state lawmakers are looking to cut Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood. Why Republicans want to cut off Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood Reps. Jean Schmidt, R-Loveland, and Adam Mathews, R-Lebanon, introduced the bill to bring Ohio in line with the federal funding cuts. They say their legislation isn't at odds with a 2023 reproductive rights amendment approved by voters. "There is consistent jurisprudence that says just because something is legal does not mean the state has to pay for it," Mathews said. Both lawmakers oppose abortion. They previously introduced legislation to "prohibit state funding of death in Ohio" by banning the death penalty, state funds for assisted suicide and abortion funding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I want to protect life at all costs," Schmidt said of the new bill. "I also understand that the voters wanted freedom of choice, but that doesn't mean that the taxpayers have to pay for that procedure, just as taxpayers don't have to pay for breast augmentation." Ohio Right to Life Executive Director Carrie Snyder said taxpayer dollars should not be used to "terminate an innocent baby. Its an easy position to take and one that many Ohioans support. We support the legislatures effort to ensure Medicaid funding is wisely spent and directed to meet the basic healthcare needs of Ohios children and families." Under state and federal policy, Medicaid pays for abortion only in cases of rape, incest or a life-endangering condition for the pregnant patient. Other abortions are not covered by Medicaid. Blauvelt said Ohio's reproductive rights amendment should offer some protection against cuts, but it's not clear how the Ohio Supreme Court will interpret the amendment's language. Republicans hold six of the seven seats on the Ohio Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At minimum, the 2023 vote should be a reminder to lawmakers that Ohioans don't want more attacks on reproductive health, McKenzie said. "Its sad to see because its blatantly the opposite of what Ohioans want." Planned Parenthood is a longtime target for Republican lawmakers This isn't the first time Republican lawmakers have sought to cut Planned Parenthood's funding. In 2016, Ohio's GOP legislators and then-Gov. John Kasich cut $1.4 million in federal funding that the state health department distributed to Planned Parenthood for HIV testing, teen pregnancy prevention and other health efforts. A lengthy legal battle ensued, which Planned Parenthood ultimately lost in 2019. But that effort to "defund Planned Parenthood" didn't touch Medicaid. Now, Republicans in Washington, D.C., are targeting that pot of money, which could result in the closure of a third of Planned Parenthood's clinics nationwide, USA TODAY reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The new bill from Schmidt and Mathews was introduced Aug. 7. The proposed law would need approval in the House and Senate before heading to Gov. Mike DeWine's desk. "We are used to this fight. We've been in for a decade and a half," Blauvelt said. "We don't just rely on the government doing the right thing." State government reporter Jessie Balmert can be reached at jbalmert@gannett.com or @jbalmert on X. What do you think? This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Planned Parenthood Medicaid funding target of Ohio bill A farmer on a tractor sprays soybean crops. (Photo by Westend61/Getty Images) Christopher Gibbs wants to start rebranding the Ohio Democratic Party by the time fall rolls around. Ive got corn to shuck, and beans to cut, and cattle to take care of, the Shelby County resident said. Ohioans with those same priorities, based around the hard work of the harvest, are the people Gibbs thinks can bring about more success for Democrats in the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the newly elected chair of the Ohio Democratic Partys rural caucus, its the perspective of the rural voter that Gibbs wants to hear from the most right now. Rural Ohio and rural America in general, I believe, is an untapped resource, certainly for the Democratic Party, he told the Capital Journal on Tuesday. Theres a feeling that its been ignored. The 2020 U.S. Census found that Ohio had the fourth largest rural population in the country, with nearly 2.8 million residents in the states rural areas. Christopher Gibbs, newest chair of the Ohio Democratic Partys rural caucus. (Photo courtesy of Christopher Gibbs.) Gibbs is the owner of more than 500 acres of Ohio farmland, and also happens to be the former leader of the Shelby County Republicans. He thinks he can use both of those perspectives as a bridge to voters who might have fallen out with the Democratic Party in the state, or who didt think it was for them in the first place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For far too long, I dont believe voters have been heard in rural America, Gibbs said. Many times, candidates blow into an area with ideas and policies, but they dont listen to the voters. The Ohio Democratic Party is trying to figure out its next steps in a state with a Republican supermajority in the Ohio General Assembly, and conservative candidates readying themselves for gubernatorial and other races in the next few years. Also on the horizon is a redraw of the states congressional district maps that will determine competitive races on the federal level. That could play into the Democrats strategies and their likelihood of success as Ohios former Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown reportedly confirmed a run for another Senate seat. Hes eyeing the seat currently held by Republican (and former lieutenant governor) Jon Husted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brown was ousted from his long-time seat in the U.S. last year by Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno, the Trump-endorsed candidate in the race. In his new position, Gibbs and fellow caucus members Jordan Horstman and Troy Scott plan to travel across rural Ohio for a listening tour to identify, discuss and address rural issues and accurately represent the needs of rural Democrats at all levels, according to a press release announcing the new leadership and the listening tour. Jordan Horstman. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Democratic Party) Troy Scott. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Democratic Party) These individuals will serve as vital liaisons between the rural caucus and local Democratic parties and clubs, ensuring that every voice in the rural community is heard and represented, the release stated. The details of the tour havent been ironed out. Gibbs said the caucus is working with a consultant to choose venues and organize the process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the main goals of the listening tour are already formed in Gibbs head: to give a venue to current Democrats, disillusioned Democrats, legacy Republicans and independent voters. We need to be honest brokers, we need to be on the ground and we need to show up, he said. The town-hall-ish events will be centered around public comment on the core values of rural Ohioans, the expectations voters in that area have for their candidates and even their perspective on the Democratic Party. Good or bad, I want to hear it all, I want the truth, Gibbs said. Something about rural voters is if you ask them a question and shut up, youre going to get the answer if you listen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX As for those legacy Republicans Gibbs wants to see at the events, he thinks theres a group on the GOP side who arent happy with what their party is doing, and are out there looking for a place that is safe to park their vote. To reach a place where every perspective is heard, the rural caucus leader said the needs common to all rural Ohioans must be a part of the discussion, from good schools and health care access to the role of the agriculture community, a piece the Ohio Democratic Party has perhaps not been good at connecting with in the past. After seven years as the chair of the Shelby County Republican Party, Gibbs said he can also speak the language of the Republicans he thinks could find their fit on the other side of the aisle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I speak legacy Republican, I do not speak MAGA, he said. The Capital Journal reached out to the Ohio Republican Party to ask about any planned outreach to rural voters. The party has not responded as of Tuesday afternoon. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Kettering Health Network has donated 28 hospital beds and four stretchers to Cedarville Universitys School of Nursing, enhancing nursing education in Ohio and supporting global health initiatives. The donation from Kettering Health Network, based in Dayton, Ohio, will provide Cedarville University with modern medical equipment that surpasses what is available in many hospitals and training programs. The new beds will be implemented for the 202526 academic year, replacing some beds that date back to 2012. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply grateful to Kettering Health Network for this gift, said Dr. Angie Mickle, dean of the School of Nursing. These beds will significantly enhance our training facilities and help us continue preparing highly skilled, Christ-centered, compassionate nurses. Cedarville Universitys outgoing beds are being donated to Advocates for World Health (AWH), a nonprofit organization based in Largo, Florida. AWH redistributes medical equipment to underserved communities worldwide. Total Quality Logistics (TQL), a Cincinnati-based freight broker, generously covered the transportation costs to deliver the 28 beds from Ohio to Florida. We are absolutely ecstatic that we can help out! said Brooke Martell of TQL. The collaboration involved more than a dozen Cedarville staff, administrators, students, and alumni, who prepared the outgoing beds for shipment. The first eight new beds and four stretchers were delivered to Cedarville on August 11, with the remaining 20 beds set to arrive by August 18, just in time for the academic year.This collaboration shows how paying it forward multiplies impact, said Mickle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kettering Health met our need, which allowed us to meet someone elses, and together with AWH and TQL, that impact will reach far beyond Cedarville. One donation has sparked a chain of generosity, demonstrating how organizations working together can make a life-changing difference across borders. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Aug. 14Ohio's elected leaders are mandated this year to redraw boundaries of the state's 15 congressional districts amid a brewing fight for political control of the U.S. House of Representatives as the 2026 midterm election approaches. While states like Texas and California threaten to redraw their congressional maps to favor one political party, Ohio alone is required by its state constitution to produce new maps this year. INSIDE OHIO POLITICS: Go here for more from our special reporting project explaining the inner-workings of Ohio statehouse politics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio's congressional redistricting process is almost entirely spelled out in its constitution after Ohio voters approved a bipartisan reform measure in 2018. Under those rules, the congressional map created in 2021 after the most recent U.S. Census is only good through 2026 because the maps were approved without requisite support from Democrats. This sets Ohio apart from other states, whose maps are theoretically good through the 2030 election cycle and are due to be updated after the 2030 Census, barring intervention from those states' leaders. And with Republicans in control of all key state offices and holding supermajorities in both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly, some suggest this gives the GOP an opportunity to gerrymander in the party's favor and help sway the balance of power in Washington D.C. How Ohio's redistricting process works Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio Constitution allocates map drawing responsibilities, establishes required deadlines, and provides specific parameters for mapmakers to follow in creating an enforceable map. Here's how the process works: Stage 1: Ohio General Assembly The Ohio General Assembly has until Sept. 30 to come up with and approve new congressional maps. In order to take effect, the legislature's proposal would need to be approved by a three-fifths vote in both the Ohio House and Senate, with the added stipulation that the map would need majority support from the Republicans and Democrats of each chamber. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Failure to meet that threshold by the end of September would kick the process to its second stage. Ohio's constitution requires the legislature's map proposals to come in the form of a traditional bill, which makes any plan approved in this first stage subject to a governor's veto or public referendum. Stage 2: Ohio Redistricting Commission If the legislature fails, then the responsibility falls on the Ohio Redistricting Commission a seven-member board made up of Ohio's governor; auditor; secretary of state; and two other designees per party, picked by Republican and Democratic legislative leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohio's governor, auditor and secretary of state are all Republicans. The redistricting commission would have until Oct. 31 to create and approve a map. Like the legislature in the first stage, it is required to have a bipartisan vote to adopt its map. A redistricting commission map can be approved by affirmative votes from four members of the committee, including support from at least two Democrats and two Republicans. Failure to meet that threshold before the Oct. 31 deadline sends the process to its third stage. Stage 3: Back to the legislature The Ohio General Assembly would get a second bite of the apple if the redistricting commission were to fail, this time with the goal of producing a map that could get three-fifths support from both chambers, including support from at least one-third of the members of each chamber's Democratic and Republican caucuses, before Nov. 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In this stage, however, the Ohio Constitution allows for a temporary map to be adopted with just a simple majority vote. A map passed in this stage, like the first stage, can be vetoed by the governor or become the subject of a voter referendum. Isn't gerrymandering prohibited? The Ohio Constitution doesn't really address gerrymandering in the first two steps outlined above, relying instead on the effort to get a 10-year map with bipartisan support. But if lawmakers create a temporary map passed on a partisan basis, the constitution does list certain restrictions: The legislature's map cannot "unduly" favor or disfavor a political party; The plan's districts cannot unduly split local governmental units; The legislature must at least "attempt" to draw compact districts; The plan goes into effect for two election cycles, which in this case would be for the 2026 and 2028 elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How we got here In 2021, Ohio's political leaders took on the task of redrawing congressional districts for the first time since Ohio voters overwhelmingly (with nearly three-quarters of voters in support) voted in 2018 to amend the Ohio Constitution to create the current process. It didn't work. Republican officeholders and legislative leaders pushed through maps with little support from Ohio Democratic leaders, going through the three-stage process outlined above and ending up with a temporary map. The League of Women Voters of Ohio and others sued, and the Ohio Supreme Court deemed the map unconstitutionally gerrymandered in favor of Republicans, with Republican Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor siding with the court's three Democrats and casting the deciding vote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But a federal court ruled the maps had to be used in order to carry out the 2022 election. After O'Connor left office and the balance of power on the state's high court changed in 2022, the League dropped their lawsuit and instead backed an effort to amend the Ohio Constitution again to remove politicians from the redistricting process. But Ohio voters rejected the proposed reforms in the 2024 election. So that leaves us with the current map that is only good for the 2022 and 2024 election cycles. This year it falls to Ohio elected officeholders and legislative leaders to again draw a map using the steps outlined above. But now, it's happening amid a national fervor over congressional maps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Partisan politics The two election cycles that used Ohio's expiring maps resulted in the election of 10 Republicans and five Democrats to represent the state in the U.S. House with only a handful of competitive districts. Ohio House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati, told this news outlet that he's hoping for and believes the law calls for a new map to give Republicans less of an advantage. "Right now we have maps that are out of whack with where Ohioans are," Isaacsohn said. "We live in a state that leans Republican, so we should have congressional districts that lean Republican. That's probably, for 15 seats, an eight-to-seven (split) with some tossups." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Ohio Republicans are again in the driver's seat. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman, R-Lima, previously suggested it may be possible to have a bipartisan bill in September after informal negotiations this month. But GOP leaders could again push through a map without Democratic support that would stand for the next two congressional elections, in 2026 and 2028. And this time the Ohio Supreme Court, which could be asked to weigh whether a temporary map is gerrymandered, has a six-to-one Republican advantage. U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno, a Republican, thinks the state's new maps should give Republicans a 12-to-3 advantage, according to The Ohio Capital Journal. But, despite external pressures, Isaacsohn maintained a guarded optimism that the Republicans won't use the opportunity to stretch their advantage even further. "The Speaker has said publicly that he is not amenable or susceptible to pressure from outside forces, including those in D.C., and I certainly hope that's the case," he said. Looking ahead Jen Miller, executive director of the League of Women Voters of Ohio, told this news outlet she doesn't want to predict what would happen in the forthcoming redistricting process. But, Miller said she doesn't expect the national conversation around redistricting to make advocating for fair maps more difficult. Which is to say: "I think redistricting is always hard when politicians are in charge." "The national conversation proves that politicians should not be part of the redistricting (and) that both parties, when given the power, will rig maps for their candidates," she said. "We stand firmly against gerrymandering, no matter who is doing it." While there are plenty of factors that go into making a fair district map, Miller said she places value on "proportional fairness" whether a map's competitive advantages are in line with the electorate's political preferences. Miller explained the goal is a map where "the percent of votes cast for each party generally mirrors the percent of seats each party would get." "The foundation (of a fair map) should be districts that don't split communities of interest and bring together communities that are very alike. Right now we have these sprawling, weird-shaped districts that smoosh together populations of people that have very different needs from infrastructure and the economy, healthcare and more," Miller said. "So the foundation really is keeping communities together, but a good measure is proportional fairness." ------ For more stories like this, sign up for our Ohio Politics newsletter. It's free, curated, and delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday evening. Avery Kreemer can be reached at 614-981-1422, on X, via email, or you can drop him a comment/tip with the survey below. Loading... Cows walk from a barn after being milked. Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images. A pair of Ohio Republican lawmakers have introduced a bill that would legalize the sale of unpasteurized milk. Doctors warn that raw milk causes foodborne illnesses, and the product is banned for a reason. The Everson Jersey Dairy Farm gets visitors from a hundred miles away for their milk. Its gone up probably 110% in people coming here, owner Jamie Everson said. We have families that come every week, an hour and a half away, to come get milk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everson has 40 milk cows on her Northeast Ohio farm, where she gets her products tested every few days and sends them to large dairy companies. However, she says visitors really want one thing. There are always people calling and looking for raw milk, she said. Selling raw, unpasteurized milk is illegal in Ohio, which Dr. Anita Somani, a Democratic state representative from Columbus, said is for good reason. In the simple case of food poisoning, you may end up with diarrhea, dehydration, nausea and vomiting, Somani said. But if youre a young kid, if youre an elderly person, if youre immunocompromised, those bacteria can be life-threatening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As an OB-GYN, Somani warns her patients about the risks that E. coli, salmonella and listeria can have during a pregnancy, which includes stillbirths. The Ohio Department of Health and the CDC back her warnings. Listeria is one that for pregnant women can be very, very, very damaging to the fetus, the doctor said. But there is a loophole in the law against selling raw milk in the state. Everson is able to provide raw milk with her herdshare program. Through an agreement, consumers can purchase a share of the cow, allowing them to obtain the raw product. Youre gonna purchase part of a cow in the herd, which is 14% of one of our cows, [it] makes a gallon a week, Everson said. So you purchase the cow for so much money and then you pay a monthly boarding fee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another legal way to sell raw milk is if the retailer says it is for pets. If you do it the proper way, you cant really get in a whole lot of trouble, Everson said. State Rep. Kellie Deeter (R-Norwalk) said this process could be improved, and wants to legalize raw milk for farm-to-consumer. Were just trying to help regulate the folks that are already doing it and actually make it healthier, not unhealthier, Deeter said. She and state Rep. Levi Dean (R-Xenia) introduced House Bill 406, which requires liability waivers for raw milk sales and establishes guidelines for monthly testing of food-borne bacteria and diseases, such as listeria. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you test milk today, does that mean that a week from now that bacteria hasnt grown? Somani asked rhetorically. The point of pasteurizing and sterilizing milk is to prevent bacteria from growing. Florida health officials report a recent E. coli outbreak stemming from raw milk has made about two dozen sick, including six children, and seven of the 21 ill are hospitalized. Somani said this is why pasteurization is so important. I dont think theres anything thats foolproof, now, but it would certainly be better than the way its currently being done without regulation, Deeter said. Deeter said she is communicating with the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Dairy Association ones who werent excited, she said to create a safer environment for the growing raw milk market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She credited MAHA, the Make America Healthy Again movement, led by U.S. Health and Human Services Department Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., to an increase in awareness of the unpasteurized product. We have legalized marijuana in the state of Ohio, so I dont think its unreasonable to legalize raw milk for the consumer in a very narrow lane in a regulated fashion where it is actually safer for folks than I think that it might be currently unregulated, Deeter said. Everson said that some people arent as stringent as her on the rules, and this could give consumers more choices. People wouldnt be so nervous about even asking, Everson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Somani said that science moves humanity forward, and she doesnt want to move backward. From a purely evidence-based decision-making process, I think its a mistake to try to legitimize raw milk, the doctor said. The bill will be heard in the coming months. Follow WEWS statehouse reporter Morgan Trau on Twitter and Facebook. This article was originally published on News5Cleveland.com and is published in the Ohio Capital Journal under a content-sharing agreement. Unlike other OCJ articles, it is not available for free republication by other news outlets as it is owned by WEWS in Cleveland. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Welcome to Ohio Utility Watch, a periodic newsletter tracking developments in Ohios ongoing public-corruption saga, often referred to as the House Bill 6 scandal. Sign up for the newsletter. Its over. Well, partly. As of today, customers of regulated utilities in Ohio will no longer pay subsidies for two old coal plants but the saga of the coal and nuclear bailout law at the heart of Ohios largest public-corruption scandal continues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six years ago, FirstEnergy and others used dark money funds given to groups whose ultimate source for political spending cant be publicly traced to route roughly $60 million in bribes to public officials and alleged coconspirators in exchange for their help passing and protecting House Bill 6. That legislation mandated the coal plant subsidies plus more than $1 billion in ratepayer charges for two nuclear power plants. Ohio lawmakers repealed the nuclear subsidies back in 2021. Here are new developments from the last two months: Power corrupts Ohios HB 6 conspiracy takes center stage in a new book, Power Corrupts: Cleaning Up Americas Biggest Industry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the FirstEnergy case involves massive amounts of money, utility corruption isnt unique to Ohio, said author Richard Munson, former director of Midwest clean energy for the Environmental Defense Fund. Besides undermining democracy and raising electric bills, corruption interferes with competitive markets, he told Canary Media. Basically, bailouts for fossil fuels and nuclear power impose a disadvantage on cheaper, clean sources like wind and solar. If the outmoded is being subsidized, that innovation will not be able to advance, Munson said. For now, its unclear whether Ohios Public Utilities Commission, or PUCO, will impose meaningful consequences on FirstEnergys utilities for alleged regulatory violations. Also in doubt is what will happen with the commissions reviews of charges already paid by customers for the coal plants, which managers often ran even when doing so increased the facilities financial losses. Ohio PUCO unfortunately appears to be an example of what were supposed to be guard dogs becoming lap dogs, Munson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Lots of demand, too little grid: The state of the US power sector (Canary Media) Coal plant charges end House Bill 15, passed in May, ends HB 6s ratepayer subsidies to two 1950s-era coal plants as of today, Aug. 14. Customers of AEP Ohio, Duke Energy Ohio, AES Ohio, and FirstEnergys three Ohio utilities have already paid more than half a billion dollars since HB 6s subsidies began in January 2020, according to the Office of the Ohio Consumers Counsel. Regulatory cases and an Ohio Supreme Court case continue. Among the issues is whether the PUCO improperly pressured an independent auditor to tone down conclusions about the plants decision to run even when it was clear they would lose money. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Ohio finally ends subsidies for two scandal-linked coal plants (Canary Media) Regulatory violations Another half billion dollars or more in potential penalties is at stake in three of the PUCOs four HB 6 cases, in which briefing wrapped up Aug. 4. FirstEnergys utilities claim they should pay far less. One case asks whether the utilities violated an Ohio law requiring the separation of regulated utilities and their unregulated affiliates that produce electricity. The other two deal with alleged improper spending of money collected for two bill riders, which are extra charges that can only be used for specified purposes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: HB 6 regulatory cases weigh what FirstEnergys Ohio utilities should pay (Canary Media) Ratemaking and the rate of return Briefing also wrapped up this month in the rate case for FirstEnergys three Ohio utilities their first full rate case since 2007. FirstEnergy wants the PUCO to approve roughly $183 million more per year in rate charges for Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, and the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co. (CEI). In contrast, the Office of the Ohio Consumers Counsel and other challengers argue FirstEnergys customers, as a group, should pay $132 million less per year. Much of the difference hinges on the rate of return on equity. FirstEnergy wants regulators to set that rate at 10.8%. The utility commissions staff says the rate should range from 9.13% to 10.13%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Opponents argue the return on equity should be even lower, with The Ohio Manufacturers Association Energy Group, the Office of the Ohio Consumers Counsel, and others calling for a cut of half a percentage point to reflect the poor management that enabled the HB 6 scandal. The consumers counsel also noted the companys prior efforts to delay the rate case because executives expected rates would be dropped, creating an Ohio hole. If regulators grant FirstEnergys request, roughly 70% of the increase will be borne by CEIs approximately 745,000 customers, who make up only 35% of the three utilities 2.1 million customers. FirstEnergy spokesperson Hannah Catlett said the cost for that area is higher because, compared to the other utilities areas, the Illuminating Co. service territory generally sees bigger storm impacts. The commission is expected to rule on the issues in the coming months. Read more: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ohios energy companies want rate hikes as testimony accuses PUCO of hiding information (Ohio Capital Journal) Heres what you need to know about FirstEnergys request for a rate increase (Signal Akron) Ohio grid disparities leave some areas with older, outage-prone equipment (Canary Media) Criminal case updates The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals on July 25 refused to reconsider its unanimous decision this spring upholding the criminal convictions of former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and lobbyist Matt Borges. Juries found both guilty in March 2023 of violating the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, known as RICO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former FirstEnergy executives Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling continue to face criminal charges in both federal and state court. Judge Susan Baker Ross has set the state court trial for Jan. 26, 2026. Pretrial fact-finding, called discovery, continues in the federal case. Read more: Appeals court rejects ex-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householders request for a second look (Columbus Dispatch) Federal court rejects appeal of former House Speaker Householder in bribery scandal (WOSU) Court rejects appeal for former Ohio officials Larry Householder, Matt Borges (Fox 28) FirstEnergy bribery case set for trial after judge rejects dismissal motions (Signal Akron) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theft charges dropped against ex-FirstEnergy executives in HB6 bribery scandal (Cleveland.com) Join the discussion Open questions in Ohios HB 6 corruption scandal are on the agenda for the 2025 Ohio Public Interest Environmental Law Conference on Sept. 26. Canary Medias Kathiann Kowalski will join Angela OBrien, deputy consumers counsel at the Office of the Ohio Consumers Counsel, and Miranda Leppla, director of the environmental law clinic at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, for the continuing legal education program, which is presented by the Ohio Environmental Council with the Energy and Environmental Law Society at The Ohio State Universitys Moritz College of Law. Okinawa resident Hiromasa Iha can still recall the screams of his classmates and teachers after a US military jet crashed into his elementary school, killing 18 people more than six decades ago. As people globally commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the 72-year-old retired businessman is among many residents who oppose the American troops stationed on their island ever since. He joins dozens of islanders in near-daily protests against the US forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United States has around 54,000 military personnel stationed in Japan, mostly on Okinawa, and a string of incidents over the years, including sexual assault cases, have angered residents. "For us, these crimes and accidents are not someone else's business, and we feel a pressing unease that we can't predict when these things may happen again," he told AFP, recalling the 1959 school incident. "We want the bases to go." The island region, a subtropical paradise with a huge tourism industry, hosts 70 percent of all American bases in Japan and serves as a key US outpost to monitor China, the Taiwan Strait and the Korean peninsula. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bloody Battle of Okinawa near the end of the war led to the US occupation of the island until 1972, during which troops seized private land in Okinawa to expand their presence in what is locally known as a "bayonet and bulldozer" campaign. During the Cold War, US troops in Okinawa were seen by Washington as a deterrent against the spread of communism. Now, both Tokyo and Washington stress the strategic importance of Okinawa in the face of China's territorial ambitions. But residents have for years voiced their fury over a spate of crimes and accidents involving American soldiers and base personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2024 alone, Okinawa police detained 80 people connected to the base -- such as US soldiers or military contractors -- including seven for severely violent crimes. Okinawa erupted in anger after a 1995 gang rape of a 12-year-old girl by three US Marines. In August 2004, a Marine helicopter crashed at a university in Okinawa, causing no injuries but amplifying fears of accidents. In April 2016, a former Marine, who was working as a military contractor in Okinawa, raped and killed a 20-year-old woman. And as recently as last month, a senior Marine officer visited the Okinawa government to apologise after a Marine was convicted of sexually assaulting a woman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'Truly scary' - Opinion polls in Okinawa have historically shown that the majority of residents believe the rest of Japan must carry its fair share of the load when it comes to hosting the US military. Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki routinely points out the island's "excessive burden", impacting the daily lives of residents. But repeated calls on authorities to prevent crimes by US soldiers have fallen largely on deaf ears, said Junko Iraha, the chairwomanof a coalition of women's groups in Okinawa. "It's not that we don't like American people. We are saying, please do something about the bases," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Okinawa was returned to Japan in 1972, residents expected that US bases would be spread across Japan -- a vision that never came true, she added. Recent polls suggest growing resignation among the Okinawan public. In a 2023 survey, nearly 40 percent of Okinawan survey participants said the anti-US base movement was powerless to change Tokyo's policy. But many Okinawan residents say they live in fear of crimes by American soldiers, with victims still trying to process their grief. Takemasa Kinjo, 68, was a high school student when his mother was killed by a Marine in 1974 with a brick at their home where she operated a small bar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is truly scary if you think crimes can happen in your neighbourhood," Kinjo said. He also joined a recent protest at a Marine base that is being expanded into a secluded bay where dugongs and other protected species live. He believes Okinawa -- where base-related income accounts for just over five percent of its economy -- can thrive thanks to tourism alone, with an increasing number of holidaymakers drawn to the area's turquoise bays and coral reefs. "There should be no base on Okinawa," he said. "We don't need new military facilities." Iha, whose elementary school was destroyed by a US jet, feels the need to explain to future generations what happened -- and warn them it could happen again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the crash, which also left more than 200 people injured, "everyone thought another war was starting", he recalled. Now, "every day, military jets fly over our houses, and we see helicopters making emergency landings," said Iha. "This is not something that only belongs in the past. This can happen again anytime." hih/aph/rsc/tc/djw OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Rumors have been circulating online regarding an Oklahoma City metro serial killer who has been cutting off victims faces; however, on Thursday, the Oklahoma City Police Department shut those down. The department said on social media Thursday that they are aware of online posts that have claimed that there is a serial killer in Oklahoma City who has been cutting off the faces of their victims. They also say those rumors are completely false. Police respond to fatal shooting in SE Oklahoma City Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have no investigations or credible information to support these claims. Spreading unfounded rumors causes unnecessary fear and distracts from real public safety issues, said the Oklahoma City Police Department on social media. Officials also remind Oklahomans that if they have information regarding any criminal activity, call 911. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. SPRINGFIELD, Mo. An Oklahoma man was sentenced for his part in a conspiracy to traffic drugs into southwest Missouri. According to a press release from United States Attorney R. Matthew Price, Western District of Missouri, Edward Uribe, 37, was sentenced to 300 months in federal prison without parole. PREVIOUS: 18 Defendants Indicted for Meth Conspiracy in SWMO Uribe pleaded guilty in November of last year to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Uribe was also ordered to forfeit over $200,000 in proceeds relating to drug trafficking to the U.S. Government. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Counties that Uribe allegedly conspired to distribute drugs to included Barry, Stone, Polk, Lawrence, Green, Jasper, and Newton Counties. Uribe was originally imprisoned in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for a previous drug-related conviction, and allegedly used a smuggled phone to communicate with co-conspirators. Uribe allegedly scheduled transportation and delivery of the drugs and provided preparation instructions for the drugs before sale. A drone purchase intended for smuggling items into the prison was also purchased by Uribe, using proceeds from the trafficking operation. Uribe, along with 19 other defendants, has pleaded guilty in this case, and Uribe is the 18th 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 KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Indivisible Oklahoma is asking Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to attend what they call a much-needed public discussion at a town hall that is less than two weeks away. The U.S. Senate is in August recess, and Indivisible Oklahoma, a non-partisan group focused on progressive values and activism, says this is the perfect time for Oklahomas Senators to talk with their constituents about issues affecting their lives. Senator James Lankford official photo Senator Markwayne Mullin official photo Those breaks are not supposed to be vacations for the senators. Those are when they are supposed to come back to their constituents who have elected them and talk to them and meet with them, said Cindy Alexander, Co-Leader of Indivisible Oklahoma. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Statewide computer outage disrupts Oklahoma offices, tag agencies Indivisible Oklahoma is calling on them to talk with Oklahoma voters and answer their questions at a town hall set for August 25. Members of the group are asked to submit questions for consideration. Alexander says there are a number of topics Oklahomans want to discuss. Some of the ones that are most concerning are the lack of due process, the kidnapping of people who look a certain way by masked, unidentified people, said Alexander. Were concerned about the tax breaks given to billionaires and big corporations paid for by cuts to safety net programs that help people get health care and to eat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexander says the list goes on, adding that theyre topics that should be discussed by the people Oklahoma elected. Senator Lankford and Senator Mullin have not yet responded as to whether or not they will be there, but Indivisible Oklahoma says the event will go on. Were having the event either way; there will be chairs there for them. They will either be in them or they will not be in them, and then well call it an empty chair event, said Alexander. Alexander added that there will be a panel made up of a variety of experts to guide the discussion, but not answer any questions. We reached out to both Lankfords and Mullins offices to ask if they are attending, but have not heard back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City. The recent border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has seen a major surge in misinformation from both sides, including a clip of a burning building misrepresented online as a scam centre set ablaze by Cambodians to "trap Thai workers." The clip was filmed in 2022 and depicts a deadly casino fire in Cambodia. "Cambodians set fire to a scam centre building with many Thais trapped inside. Thai people are urged to evacuate as the fire could spread to other buildings in Poipet," says Thai-language text overlay on a TikTok video shared on July 29, 2025. The clip -- viewed over a million times -- shows a building engulfed in flames. Screenshot of the false TikTok post, taken on August 13, 2025, with a red X added by AFP The same clip has also been shared alongside similar claims on TikTok, Instagram and X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These posts surfaced after Thailand and Cambodia exchanged deadly fire in late July, which left at least 43 people dead and over 300,000 displaced. The fighting stopped after a ceasefire was reached on July 29 (archived link). Despite the truce, disinformation has continued to spread online, including misleading visuals and emotionally charged claims aimed at fueling tensions, fear and hatred between the two Southeast Asian countries (archived here and here). Amnesty International report in June said that abuses in Cambodia's scam centres are happening on a "mass scale", accusing the Cambodian government of being "acquiescent" and "complicit" in the exploitation of thousands of workers (archived link). In March, Cambodia deported 119 Thais -- among 230 foreign nationals detained during raids on alleged cyber scam centres in Poipet city (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the clip predates the recent conflict and does not show a razed internet sweatshop. Casino fire A reverse image search using the video's keyframes on Google found an identical TikTok video published on December 29, 2022 (archived link). The Thai-language caption reads "The moment people crawled out to escape #PoipetFire." Screenshot comparison between the false TikTok post (L) and the TikTok clip posted on December 29, 2022 AFP reported that the fire broke out at the Grand Diamond City casino and hotel complex in Poipet, a Cambodian bordertown adjacent to Thailand, on the night of December 28, 2022 (archived here and here). The blaze killed at least 26 people including 17 Thais, one Malaysian and one Nepalese. Rescuers found victims trapped in stairwells and rooms (archived link). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodian authorities later confirmed that an electrical fault caused the fire. AFP documented the aftermath in footage from the scene. Google Street View imagery from February 2023 confirmed that elements in the video match the Grand Diamond City building and its surrounding area (archived link). Screenshot of the falsely shared video (L) and the Google Street View imagery, with similar elements highlighted by AFP AFP has previously debunked other misinformation related to the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. Yue Wa is one of the last remaining markets in Chinatown, a place where the neighborhood's most vulnerable residents could find affordable groceries. For the past 18 years, customers chatted while they hand-picked their produce in front of the store, the small market providing a dwindling sense of community. By next month, Yue Wa will be gone, the business proving unsustainable in a fast-changing neighborhood that has historically been a crucial hub for Chinese and other Asian immigrants. But after a slew of burglaries, the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the recent ICE raids and the shifting demographics of the neighborhood, owner Amy Tran is making the difficult decision to close the store in September. Amy Tran, owner of Yue Wa Market in Chinatown, hands a plastic bag to a customer. (Emil Ravelo / For The Times) On Tuesday afternoon, Tran stood in the shade of the store's entrance, helping a customer put some garlic bulbs in a plastic bag. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every day at 1 p.m., Tran arrives at the narrow storefront near the corner of North Broadway and Ord Street. She spends her mornings scouring the produce warehouses in nearby downtown for the oranges, mangoes, mushrooms, yams, garlic and greens her customers rely on to meet their daily grocery needs. I dont feel ready to let go of the store, but theres not much I can do to bring more people in, she said. Business was booming and a lot of people used to come around, but now there is no foot traffic and a lot of people have moved away from Chinatown. Read more: Column: Chinatown without Chinese grocery stores, and the delicate balance of ethnic communities Tran has watched the neighborhood change from a bustling historic enclave where many Asian immigrants live and work, to what is starting to feel like "a ghost town." Chinatown is where she settled after immigrating from Vietnam in the 90s. Her son was born at the pink hospital on Hill Street. With no formal education, she worked in restaurants in the area before taking over an herbal supplement and tea shop in 2007. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She noticed that a lot of locals were always asking her for ingredients like sweet potatoes and taro, so she started selling fruits and expanded to vegetables, said Derek Luu, Trans son. Luu went to school in the area and spent many childhood afternoons in the back of the market. She realized all of her customers were looking for fresh stuff, so she started going to the produce warehouse district to get produce for them. What started as a small row of groceries in front of the store quickly grew to include snacking fruits like apples, oranges and berries, and anything the primarily Asian clientele might need for cooking. There was always a steady supply of bitter melon, eggplant, gai lan and bok choy. The interior of Yue Wa Market, an 18-year-old shop owned by Amy Tran. The store sells fresh produce and dry goods to mostly elderly Asian and Latino clientele. (Emil Ravelo / For The Times) Most of the old folks didnt want to walk all the way into the store, so she found that most of her business was happening on the sidewalk, Luu said. She sort of started the trend in Chinatown of putting the produce out on the street. The need for fresh produce and other market goods grew over the years as the existing stores in the area started to close, and Chinatown was left without a real nexus for its Asian ethnic communities. Ai Hoa and G&G, two long-standing full-service grocery stores, closed in 2019. Other shops in the area attempted to fill the void, with the bookstore next to Yue Wa selling a selection of produce and Banh Mi My Dung, a sandwich shop around the corner, following suit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When she's not at the market, Luu said his mom spends the majority of her time hunting for deals for her customers at the produce warehouses in downtown Los Angeles. Because the population that I serve is mainly elderly and low-income, the pricing, if I ever raise, they wont be able to afford it, Tran said. So I want to be one of the stores in Chinatown to be able to provide fresh fruit and produce for the elderly. With nearly 30% of Chinatowns residents living below the poverty line, many without the means to travel outside the area to a grocery store, the need for fresh, affordable food is as dire as ever. At Yue Wa, Tran displays her produce in the boxes they arrive in, with no prices listed for the various goods. She hands her customers, mostly the neighborhoods elderly Asian and Latino residents, a plastic bag, then a discourse ensues regarding the prices. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The grandmas and aunties ask how much, Luu said. Can I get a discount? Yue Wa Market owner Amy Tran discusses the price of vegetables with a customer at the store. (Emil Ravelo / For The Times) Its a way of doing business thats quickly disappearing, with younger shoppers used to mainstream stores and clearly labeled prices. There is a culture of bargaining thats baked into Chinatown, but the younger people dont do it because its too awkward, Luu said. I recognize that my moms store is a bit old-school. The shop experienced a decade of sustainable profits before starting to feel the effects of the changing demographics of the neighborhood. Even with the low prices, business was good until around 2016, when I started seeing all the art galleries and trendier restaurants coming to the neighborhood, Luu said. We started noticing our community members leaving. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tran also contemplated leaving and setting up shop somewhere in the San Gabriel Valley, but the ties to her Chinatown community were too strong. And her decision to close the shop goes far beyond the gentrification of Chinatown and the surrounding areas. Weve been getting hit from all sides, Luu said. Luu left UCLA during the pandemic in 2020 to help his mom at the store. He was worried about the rise in Asian hate he was seeing all over the country. His mom complained of the people who came by to repeatedly harass her at the market. The family was struggling to break even and Tran's husband, Hugh Luu, needed to look for work outside the store. He found a job at one of produce warehouses downtown, working shifts that started at 3 a.m. Some of the herbal supplements and teas available at Yue Wa Market in Chinatown. Everything at the store is selected by owner Amy Tran. (Emil Ravelo / For The Times) I didnt want to hear a story of my mom getting punched, Derek said. But even when I was there, it didnt stop people from taking our stuff and throwing it onto the street and calling out racial slurs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Most recently, the family credits the ICE raids with stoking fear into an already diminished immigrant community in Chinatown. When my mom goes to buy produce, shes noticing half the workers are gone or the shops are closed, Derek said. These raids are kind of mysterious to the Chinatown community and people here dont want to risk being arrested or abducted, so a lot of the foot traffic has died down. But it was a series of robberies at both the store and later at the familys home in the San Gabriel Valley that prompted Tran to make the difficult decision to close. Yue Wa Market owner Amy Tran holds some of the fresh produce available at her store. (Emil Ravelo / For The Times) Derek recently posted a video about the stores impending closure on social media, including video footage of a robber assaulting his mother and stealing her purse from the back of the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He estimates that the family has lost more than $100,000 over the last decade or so, with people repeatedly stealing products and both small and large amounts of cash from the store. Derek and Tran have filed multiple police reports, but robberies continue. The burglaries happen throughout Chinatown all the time, but they are very underreported, Derek said. We are not the only business this is happening to. I dont know if its a mistrust of the police or the Asian mentality of not wanting to be known as the person who gets robbed. I also dont know about making a police report when someone steals $5 or $10, Tran said. It just feels helpless. The family took increased safety measures at the store and installed window reinforcements and a new security system with cameras at home. There was a break-in at their home in September and another earlier this summer. On June 11, Derek's sister Tiffany was assaulted during a robbery at the familys home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trans medical bills from an ongoing battle with diabetes and cataracts and the costs of the increased security measures were the last straw for the family and the market. Derek set up a GoFundMe page to help cover some of the bills, but the shop is scheduled to close by the end of September. A lot of times when people see businesses go, its sort of seen as this thing is just gone, Derek said. The fact that this was here is a testament to something. My mom put in a really good 18 years keeping this community fed and in touch with their heritage. Thats something. Sign up for our Tasting Notes newsletter for restaurant reviews, Los Angeles food-related news and more. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. One person was killed and five others injured in a hot-air balloon accident in the northern Dutch province of Friesland, authorities said on Thursday. The balloon was attempting to land late Wednesday evening near the village of De Hoeve when the incident occurred, a provincial safety authority spokesman told Dutch radio. There were 34 people on board, including the pilot and co-pilot. Three of the injured people were in serious condition at hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, the balloon was preparing to land in a field near the village when it was suddenly caught by a gust of wind. Witnesses told reporters that the basket struck the ground several times and was dragged for several meters. The safety authority spokesman confirmed those accounts, describing "terrible panic." Emergency services were immediately alerted, with ambulances and two helicopters deployed. Five people were taken to hospital, while one person died at the scene. A police investigation has been launched. LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) A Lancaster County man was killed in a multi-vehicle crash in Lancaster County on Wednesday night. According to the Lancaster County Coroners Office, 19-year-old Gage Weaver, of Denver, Pennsylvania, was killed in the accident. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Severe Weather Alerts The coroners office responded to the area of Newswanger Road and Martindale Road in Ephrata for a multi-vehicle crash at 5:35 p.m. on August 13. The coroners investigation determined that a young adult male, identified as Weaver, was found deceased in his vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Ephrata Police Department, Weaver was driving a Ford Mustang eastbound when he lost control and slid into the westbound lane, striking a Ford Econoline Van. Police said a Honda CRV was traveling westbound behind the van and collided with the vehicle. Weaver was transported to the Lancaster County Forensic Center, where it was determined he died due to blunt force trauma. The coroners office said the manner of death was ruled an accident. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. ONSLOW COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) One Place Child Advocacy Center in Jacksonville is celebrating 15 years of helping children and families affected by abuse, neglect, and trauma. The center opened its doors in 2010 and has since served over 4,400 children and families, including local military families. Some of the services they offer include forensic interviewing, medical exams, mental health support and victim advocacy. Clinical Services Director Sara Parrish says the staff has nearly tripled since she first started 11 years ago. They also now offer on-site mental health services instead of making referrals off site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just really meaningful to see the growth of the Child Advocacy Center over the years and the impact that we have been able to make on the lives of the children that weve served, Parrish said. Parrish describes the center as a one-stop shop for children and families going through abuse or trauma. The Child Advocacy Center is really the first step for a child who is on their journey to hope and healing, which is our goal, to provide hope and healing to every single child who experiences a traumatic event, Parrish said. By having these services here on site for children and their non offending supportive caregivers, we hope that we can move them from this place of trauma and crisis to a place of change and hope in their life. The organization is getting ready to open a new SECU Hope Center in the Jacksonville Commons area that will allow for multiple children to receive care simultaneously. Theyre hoping to open this fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. Last month, the Department of Justices response to the Jeffrey Epstein saga culminated in an incredibly bizarre move: The Federal Bureau of Prisons transferred a convicted sex offender to a minimum security prison. The special treatment given by the Trump administration to Ghislaine Maxwell is a travesty of justice. It also suggests only one conclusion: A rotten deal between Trumps DOJ and Epsteins accomplice to keep quiet in exchange for preferential treatment. The treatment is, ultimately, not surprising, given how the Trump administration has handled Maxwell in recent months. From her private meeting with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, a former Trump defense lawyer, to her abrupt transfer to a cushy minimum-security prison, everything about the Trump administrations conduct appears designed to shield Trump from fallout in the Epstein sex scandal, which involved more than 1,000 victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This favoritism would have been difficult to imagine even a few years ago. On Dec. 29, 2021, a federal jury found Maxwell guilty of five felony counts, including conspiracy to transport minors with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and sex trafficking of a minor. On June 28, 2022, she was sentenced to 20 years in jail and a fine of $750,000. Maxwell claimed (and continues to claim) that she was scapegoated for actions carried out by Epstein. But Judge Alison Nathan, in sentencing Maxwell, stated that Ms. Maxwell is not being punished in place of Epstein or as a proxy for Epstein. The judge found that Maxwell over the course of many years participated in a horrific scheme to entice, transport, and traffic underage girls, some as young as 14, for sexual abuse by and with Jeffrey Epstein. Judge Nathan also said that Maxwell herself had engaged in sexual abuse and that the damage done to these young girls was incalculable. According to CNN, federal prosecutors amassed millions of records during the sex trafficking investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice and former girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell. The MAGA world has long called for the public release of these records. On Feb. 21, in response to a question of whether the Justice Department would release the list of Epsteins clients, Attorney General Pam Bondi said, Its sitting on my desk to review. But on July 6, a two-page DOJ/FBI memo stated that a comprehensive review found there was no incriminating client list, no evidence of prominent individuals being blackmailed, and no basis to investigate uncharged third parties. Then, on July 23, the Wall Street Journal reported that Bondi had informed Trump in the spring that he was mentioned in the Epstein files. Perhaps not coincidentally, its been nothing but obstruction from the Trump administration since they found this information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On July 24 and 25, Blanche personally interviewed Maxwell. It is strange for a deputy attorney general, particularly one who previously served as a criminal defense attorney to the president, to travel to a correctional facility for direct interviews with convicted criminals. Blanche had no involvement in the Maxwell criminal case, but nevertheless interviewed Maxwell alone. No one involved in the case was present. Days after the Blanche meeting, and without any explanation, Maxwell was surprisingly moved from her Florida prison to a minimum-security federal prison camp in Texas that is also known as Club Fed. This is a prison camp that does not house sex offenders, nor those with the 20-year sentence Maxwell has. The unexplained move to this prison camp is extremely suspicious and has raised the appearance of a deal being made by Blanche and Maxwells attorney, a friend of Blanche. Sex offenders are basically barred from minimumsecurity camps. Bureau of Prisons policy requires inmates convicted of sex offenses to be housed in low-security facilities at minimum, unless a waiver is approved. Such waivers for sex offenders are extraordinarily unusual. On top of all this, public reports, video, and other evidence document that Trump was a longtime friend of Epstein. Trump reportedly took at least eight trips on Epsteins private jet between 1993 and 1997. In 2002, Trump told New York magazine that Epstein was a terrific guy and a lot of fun to be with. Epstein has said that I was Donalds closest friend for 10 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump was also a friend of Maxwell. Following her arrest and jailing, Trump said I just wish her well, frankly. Trump recently refused to rule out a pardon for Maxwell, and made sure to say that he has the power to grant a pardon. Maxwell reportedly told Blanche that Trump had never done anything in her presence that would have caused concern. Assuming that this is all Maxwell said, it is a very limited statement. It does not extend to a myriad of things Maxwell might have known about what Trump did but that were not done in her presence. This statement certainly does not rule out the possibility that Maxwell may have some leverage over Trump. The DOJ is certainly acting as though she does. Ultimately, Trump and the Justice Department have entirely ignored the victims of Maxwell and Epstein, showing no interest in or concern about the women who as minors were subject to horrific and traumatic sexual abuse crimes. It is hard to escape the conclusion that President Trump just wants the Epstein controversy to go away. Even if it takes a pardon of Maxwell or other actions, he appears ready and willing. Other nations have been freeloading on U.S. innovation for far too long, President Trump recently wrote. It is time they pay their fair share. Hes right about that. Foreign countries with government-run health systems underpay for American-made pharmaceuticals. Thats because they put the heavy hand of centralized government on the scales in talks with innovative drug companies. In other words, foreign bureaucrats negotiate drug prices with American drug companies like the mob negotiates when shaking down business owners, dictating what theyll pay in protection money. The playing field is tilted to favor foreign governments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats the best solution for ending this unfair disparity? President Trump should use the bully pulpit and trade tools, just as hes done to force European allies (most of which have socialized medicine and freeload on American medical innovation costs) to pay more for their defense costs. The administration must employ more robust trade policies and tactics designed to cudgel foreign freeloaders to pay their fair share for U.S. medicines and pay actual market value. As it stands, well-off foreign nations deliberately undervalue highly valuable pharmaceuticals in setting artificially low prices. Those countries employ methodological sleight of hand; delay making available cutting-edge new medicines by 18 months on average and use other ulterior means. This result is Americans paying a 26% freeloader tax. This is more than a pricing disparity its a nontariff trade barrier, National Review says. European firms can sell their drugs in the U.S. at market-based prices. American firms, by contrast, are forced to sell in Europe at artificially low prices and often only after long delays. This is a massive U.S. subsidy to foreign countries, sustaining innovation they benefit from but do little to finance. No other major industry faces such global price fixing by government-run systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We may not be able to force our trading partners to scrap their single-payer, government-run health systems, but we certainly can enforce trade agreements crafted to end their non-tariff barriers. We can demand that they stop gaming the system; use legitimate, up-to-date data for determining cost-effectiveness and market value; and streamline regulatory hurdles to speed coverage decisions. Their failure to comply could be met by unleashing the U.S. trade representative on freeloading socialized medicine nations. Remedies that punish the freeloaders instead of American innovators could include tying the amount of U.S. medicines sold to a socialized health system to their U.S. private market price. This would require foreign single-payer systems to pay the U.S. market-based price. We can make government-run health systems either spend the same amount they currently do, but receive fewer of the U.S. products (having to pay the U.S. private market price for the lower quantity) or have to pay more to obtain the same amount of pharmaceutical product they now buy at an artificially below-market price. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Congress could require that a high-ranking U.S. diplomat accompany U.S. drug firm negotiators, upon their request, to official proceedings in any government venue or agency, including in negotiations with a socialized medicine bureau. These officials should be authorized to intervene in such meetings on behalf of the American company. These diplomats should ensure fair treatment of and good-faith negotiations with the American entity. U.S. authorities should be able to invoke sanctions for trade reciprocity for instance, limit U.S. market access on certain goods the country sells or seeks to sell in our country on the spot. Any foreign bureaucracy that disrespects U.S. drug representatives or the official U.S. advocate standing with the U.S. business, or is recalcitrant and uncooperative in the dealings would cause swift, sure consequences. These approaches would achieve actual reciprocity, with foreign countries negotiating honestly and paying market-based prices. For this to happen, Uncle Sam must have the backs of U.S. firms, force negotiations on a level playing field and deliver meaningful trade sanctions against governments that persist in defying reciprocal trade. Some 18 U.S. senators and 33 U.S. representatives have signed letters urging the administration to pursue trade remedies to force freerider countries to pay their fair share of the value of American biopharmaceutical innovation that benefits the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump has brought an end to NATO countries freeriding on the United States back for Europes defense. Theres nothing stopping his achieving the same outcome for trade of American medical innovations, except the administrations misguided fixation on importing foreign socialist price controls. Most-favored-nation-style reference pricing would cost the world 167 to 342 new approved drugs over 20 years and up to 326 million lost life years. Every $1-2 billion in foregone research and development leaves one fewer cure. This threat comes as the United States leads the world in life sciences, supporting 5 million jobs, operating over 1,500 manufacturing facilities and contributing more than $1.6 trillion to the economy. Recent commitments to U.S.-based manufacturing exceed $215 billion, but will disappear if most-favored nation pricing takes hold. The answer is to strong-arm foreign freeloaders, using trade tools to end their cheating, while preserving and protecting Americas global-leading, domestically advantageous pharmaceutical industry. ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- The Odessa Police Department is asking the community for help in searching for the two men accused of burglarizing a Dollar General store and stealing merchandise. WATCH: Dollar General Burglary According to the Odessa Police Department, officers responded to the store at 120 W. Clements after reports of a burglary. Footage shows one of the suspects entering the store, taking his shirt off, and putting it over his face in an apparent attempt to conceal his identity. Police said both suspects took merchandise before leaving the store. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who recognizes either suspect, or who has information about the case, is urged to contact Detective M. Troglin at 432-284-2012 or Odessa Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS. Callers should reference case number 25-0006969. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) Mayor Gary Fuller, who has led the City of Opelika for 21 years, will retire at the end of his current term in 2025, closing a chapter marked by major industrial growth, downtown revitalization, and record-breaking capital investment. Fuller first joined Opelikas leadership as a city council member from 2000 to 2004 before being elected mayor in August 2004. Since then, he has been re-elected four times unopposed in 2012 and most recently in 2020 with 66 percent of the vote. Under his administration, Opelika has seen more than 5,700 new industry jobs and over $2.6 billion in new capital investments. Fuller points to the recruitment of Miele and Niagara Bottling as two of the citys most recent and significant industrial wins. The citys industrial park has expanded, attracting a roster of national and international employers, boosting the local economy, and creating opportunities for residents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond industrial growth, Fullers tenure has included downtown redevelopment projects, infrastructure upgrades, housing expansion, and the creation of the Opelika SportsPlex & Aquatics Center. The city has also invested heavily in technology, becoming Alabamas first Gig City with Opelika Power Services high-speed fiber-optic internet. Fuller has often emphasized partnerships with Opelika City Schools, local businesses, and state economic development agencies as a key to the citys success. Its been my honor to serve this community, he has said in past addresses. Opelikas progress is the result of teamwork, and Im proud of what weve accomplished together. With Fullers retirement, Opelika voters will choose a new mayor for the first time in two decades. The three candidates Herman G. Barnes III, Raven Harvis, and Eddie Smith will appear on the August 26 ballot. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin meet on Friday to discuss how to achieve peace in Ukraine, a goal that most analysts believe is currently out of reach. But theres another area where the two leaders could reach a ground-breaking agreement that would actually be in both countries interests and give both leaders bragging rights for tackling a global threat: nuclear arms control. The threat of a new nuclear arms race has been growing. The last remaining agreement limiting the worlds two largest nuclear arsenals the New START Treaty is set to expire next February. When that happens, for the first time in over half a century, U.S. and Russian strategic weapons could be entirely unconstrained, and both countries militaries will plan their future nuclear posture based on worst-case estimates of each others arsenals. In this context, the Trump-Putin meeting presents a rare, well-timed opportunity to act not only for humanitys sake, but also for the hard-headed strategic security interests of both Russia and the United States. To do this, Trump and Putin need not negotiate all the details of a new treaty overnight. But even in just one meeting, they could begin the process of restoring predictability and restraint around nuclear weapons, signaling to their bureaucracies and to the world that the era of managed competition that weve lived in for the last 50 years need not give way to an uncontrolled new arms race. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both leaders have already hinted they are open to this. Trump recently remarked that it would be a problem for the world if New START were to expire without a follow-on framework. Putin, too, has specifically mentioned New STARTs forthcoming expiration as an issue to be addressed with Washington. But time is short, and the longer both sides wait, the harder the task will become. And heres the key thing: No one else can do it. Only Trump and Putin, who together control over 90 percent of the worlds nuclear warheads, need to decide this. Its entirely a bilateral issue where the decision needs to be made at the top. (No need to get signoff from the Europeans or arm twist the Ukrainians.) There are six areas where the two leaders could reach an agreement in principle that would set the stage for renewed strategic stability talks between the two nuclear superpowers. First, they could reaffirm the January 2022 statement made by the leaders of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, which declared that a nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought and affirmed their foremost responsibilities to avoid any military confrontation with other nuclear-armed states and reduce strategic risks. In todays environment, reiterating this principle (even without explicit reference to the previous statement, as it was done under the Biden administration) would be a modest but vital act of leadership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, Trump and Putin could publicly declare their intent not to exceed New START limits even after the treaty expires. This voluntary cap would prevent a near-term arms race, reassure allies and competitors alike, and buy time for diplomats and military officials to assess possible frameworks for the future. Third, they could jointly affirm that neither country sees a need to resume explosive nuclear testing. While the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty has not entered into force, partly because Washington and Moscow need to ratify it, the norm against testing has held for decades (apart from North Korea). Breaking that norm now, whether through rhetoric or real-world action, would severely destabilize the global non-proliferation regime. Fourth, they could agree to a freeze on non-strategic or so-called tactical nuclear weapons, smaller devices designed for battlefield use, without prejudice to future negotiations. That would go some way toward addressing long-standing concerns in Washington and send a message of mutual restraint. Both sides could commit not to increase the quantity of these systems, even in the absence of formal counting rules and exact numbers. While arms control agreements to date have largely focused on strategic nuclear systems, nuclear capabilities intended for battlefield use cannot be ignored, especially at a time when their perceived utility is beginning to increase again. Fifth, since the 2019 collapse of the 1987 Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, which banned U.S. and Russian ground-launched missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers, there have been no binding limits on these systems. These are weapons that either country might station closer to the others territory, such as the U.S. placing them in Europe or Russia installing them in Cuba. Russias announcementlast week that its self-imposed moratorium on INF-class missile deployments is no longer in effect has further heightened concerns about a new arms race in this category. In this post-INF environment, both leaders could jointly state that neither country intends to deploy intermediate-range missiles in a way that threatens the others territory. Such a political assurance would help avoid a destabilizing cycle of deployments in Europe and Asia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A further step in this area could be a reciprocal commitment not to build excessive numbers of such systems, particularly those that could be rapidly moved or redeployed in a crisis. Over time, this dialogue could broaden into joint work on managing the challenges posed by other long-range precision strike capabilities including dual-capable cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, and other systems capable of striking strategic targets without crossing the nuclear threshold. These weapons, while technically non-nuclear, can have strategic effects and blur the line between conventional and nuclear deterrence, making it all the more important to limit ambiguity and address them early. Finally, both leaders could acknowledge that missile defense must not spiral out of control. With the U.S. accelerating its Golden Dome project and Russia expanding its arsenal of advanced delivery systems without any restraints, Trump and Putin could state their shared understanding that mutual vulnerability remains essential for strategic stability and that no system can guarantee invulnerability. Instructions from the two presidents to resume substantive work on these issues would give Washington and Moscow the task of thinking harder and thinking together about how to manage a way forward. Several key changes since the last serious attempt at such talks during Trumps first term including more capable and assertive third powers, new nuclear and conventional capabilities, advances in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, and the growing role of outer space in security competition make that task even harder. Beyond bilateral steps, Trump and Putin could also vow to work with other nuclear-armed leaders to reduce the risks of miscommunication, misperception or miscalculation leading to nuclear use. Trump and Putin could help persuade the other seven nuclear-armed leaders today that it is in their interests to modernize the controls that exist and put new ones in place where they do not. These tools, such as crisis communication networks, missile pre-launch notification regimes and more, would also help generate a deeper level of mutual understanding that will be an important enabling step to bringing in other players into arms control efforts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TrumpPutin meeting may be focused on Ukraine, but it could be historically significant on the nuclear issue. The ultimate responsibility to deal with the existential threat nuclear weapons pose to the United States, Russia and the entire planet lies with the heads of state themselves. The lesson of the past 60 years is that even adversaries can agree on the need for limits. Nixon and Brezhnev knew it. Reagan and Gorbachev knew it. Clinton and Yeltsin knew it. Obama and Medvedev knew it. The question today is not whether Trump and Putin can replicate those breakthroughs, but whether they can summon the political will to at least put a floor under todays strategic freefall and create the conditions for the next era of restraint. Without restraint, there may not be a return to the tens of thousands of nuclear weapons deployed during the Cold War, but the absence of ceilings on each sides future capabilities will force military planners to assume the worst and prepare accordingly. Thats the logic that drives arms races. Trump and Putin have five months to solve that problem. Alaska could be the start. The news media is not popular among Americans. A Gallup survey from February showed 36% of those polled have no trust at all in mass media, 33% have not very much trust, and just 31% have a great deal or fair amount of trust. So getting the average American to care about the terms of a corporate merger that imposed what Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr described as a bias monitor and ombudsman on CBS News is a tall order. But Americans should care a lot. This move is an affront to the First Amendment and sets the precedent that partisans on the FCC can compel media outlets to accept the authority of a government-sanctioned truth arbiter as FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez, the lone Democrat on the commission, put it. You dont have to like or trust the mainstream media to be repulsed by the idea of a thought-police snitch in a news organization scouring for the kind of bias that would offend the White House no matter which party is in power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gomez, in an interview with PBS, warned that President Donald Trumps administration is weaponizing the FCC as a licensing authority, and she said that any time the commission has to approve a license request, merger or sale, I am concerned that you are going to see similar demands for concessions that will lead to censorship. Gomez added that shes concerned that this will breed more corporate capitulation, because the bottom dollar is what these corporations want. They are not protecting their journalists. The TL;DR version of how we got here begins with CBS News interviewing then-Vice President Kamala Harris before the 2024 election. One of the presidential candidates answers was edited for brevity on 60 Minutes but broadcast in full on Face the Nation. Its common practice to edit interview footage to fit within broadcast television time constraints (Fox News does it, too). Theres nothing unethical about it, and 60 Minutes later published the full transcript of the interview, which proved decisively that there was no journalistic ethical misconduct. Trump, however, sued over the interview, and a conservative group filed a complaint alleging that the interview was deliberately edited to make Harris look good and deceive voters which was dismissed by the outgoing Democratic FCC chairman at the end of President Joe Bidens term in January, but revived by Carr once Trump took office. The saga came to an ignominious end last week with the federal governments approval of the $8 billion merger between CBS corporate parent Paramount and Skydance creating a new Paramount company. That merger followed Paramounts capitulation to Trumps bogus lawsuit with a $16 million settlement. (Trump claims the company promised an additional $20 million in PSAs, but Paramount's new chairman and CEO David Ellison hasn't confirmed or denied that claim.) Thats peanuts for a corporate behemoth, but as weve seen from law firms like Paul Weiss, universities like Columbia and other corporate media companies like Disney/ABC, cowardice is contagious. And the imposition of a bias monitor is the real win for Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paramounts new president, Jeff Shell, said the CBS News ombudsman will be a transparency vehicle and insisted were not being overseen by the FCC or anybody else. The FCCs official approval of the Paramount-Skydance merger said the now-settled lawsuit filed by President Donald J. Trump against Paramount and CBS News is unrelated to our review of the Transaction and added that the ombudsman reports to the President of New Paramount, and will receive and evaluate any complaints of bias or other concerns involving CBS. Carr said at an open commission meeting last week that the FCC is in a trust but verify posture regarding CBS News. Everybodys saying all the right things that this isnt about creating a system where the federal government gets to decide what constitutes bias or other forms of wrongthink that offend Trump, his administration and his followers. But Carr has made other recent comments that dont seem to indicate a just the facts impartiality. Rather, it sure sounds like hes a happy soldier in Trumps culture war retribution blitzkrieg. The chairman told the far-right news outlet Newsmax: [Trump] smashed the facade that these are gatekeepers that can determine what people think. Everything were seeing right now flows from that decision by President Trump, and hes winning. Gomez told me in an email that shes concerned the CBS News bias monitors job will be to ensure that journalists do not criticize this administration or express views that conflict with its agenda, calling it a never-before-seen form of government intrusion into the newsroom that she says is in clear violation of the First Amendment and the law. She added, To this administration, media bias appears to mean anything or anyone it disagrees with. Given the lack of trust in the news media, I asked Gomez why the average American should care about the CBS News bias monitor. It should concern everyone who values a free and independent press. No government, regardless of party, should get to decide what is true, who gets heard, and which voices are silenced, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To their credit, several conservative advocacy groups banded together earlier this year to publicly oppose the FCCs investigation of CBS News, arguing an adverse ruling against CBS would constitute regulatory overreach and advance precedent that can be weaponized by future FCCs. And the conservative Wall Street Journal editorial board pleaded in vain with Paramounts bosses to not [pay] off the president and instead win the legal case, vindicate its CBS journalists and the First Amendment. Though Paramount ended up sheepishly bending its knee to Trump, its mildly heartening that some influential voices on the right still understand the concept that any powers endowed to the government will ultimately be wielded by ones political enemies so long as we still have a democracy. Although Trump and his administration are doing everything they can to run roughshod over institutions and impose ideological litmus tests on government employees, universities and private companies they wont be in power forever, however much that may disappoint them. And once theyve left the White House, its unlikely that MAGA would be warm to the idea of a bias monitor that informs Democratic administrations about what they perceive as unfair media coverage. I argued many times during Trumps first administration, and later during the Biden administration, that the left should not demand government-approved truth arbiters in their fight, as many did when searching for ways to push back on Russian disinformation campaigns, online bigotry and Covid conspiracy theory lies. Better late than never, but hopefully now they can see why that was always a terrible idea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, the few remaining limited government conservatives and libertarians who havent completely surrendered their principles in service of Trumps revenge regime ought to demonstrate that theyre not just MAGA-compliant hacks bitter about the mainstream media, and speak out against the idea of government-sanctioned informants in any newsroom. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Washington, D.C. is not a war zone, but you wouldnt know it from the presidents orders. On Monday, President Trump staged a dramatic show of federal force: 800 National Guard troops patrolling D.C. streets, the Metropolitan Police Department seized under the District of Columbia Home Rule Act of 1973 and 130 FBI agents ordered to take our capital back. All because of a so-called crime emergency. The real crisis is that Trump is ignoring research-backed crime deterrent strategies and actively gutting programs that actually work to promote public safety. Trumps manufactured emergency is not a public safety strategy it is political theater. It is a distraction from more pressing national headlines, from the Epstein investigation to ongoing tariff disputes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the Home Rule Act grants the president emergency authority, using it to occupy the city in defiance of data-backed realities tramples D.C.s autonomy, needlessly scares tourists off and sets a perilous precedent for federal overreach. The truth? No emergency exists. Violent crime in D.C. has dropped 26 percent compared to last year, including declines in homicides, carjackings and other serious offenses. Crime analyst Jeff Asher notes that: Murders have steadily declined since late 2023, tracking pre-pandemic trends. Carjackings, after 2023, have fallen back to early-pandemic levels and continue to drop Violent crime overall remains far below its peak in the early 1990s and below levels from a decade ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This trend isnt unique to D.C. Violent crime nationally is near 50-year lows. So why the military spectacle? Because fear is politically useful. Trumps rhetoric casts D.C. as a city overrun with bloodthirsty criminals, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people who must be removed. This rhetoric seemingly justifies carceral responses, even though research shows they neither solve crime nor address underlying causes, and often make conditions worse. Trumps emphasis on locking up young people may grab headlines, but it does not produce long-term safety. By invoking exaggerated threats and casting youth, especially Black and Hispanic youth as inherently violent, Trump is resurrecting the long-discredited superpredator myth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Coined by criminologist John Dilulio in the 1990s, this false narrative fueled punitive juvenile sentencing laws and disproportionately criminalized youth in communities of color. While we should be rejecting this toxic legacy, Trump is instead ignoring what works, rooted in evidence, to keep communities safe. Decades of research show that mass incarceration of youth yields no evidence of sustainable crime reduction. What works instead? Mentorship, employment, safe spaces, educational pathways investments that anchor youth rather than isolate and incarcerate them. Arrest sweeps also wont erase the need for housing, and neither FBI agents nor National Guard troops are equipped to tackle the structural drivers of crime. Crime is fundamentally a problem of social conditions, including housing, jobs, education, healthcare and mental health needs, all well documented. Evidence is clear: permanent supportive housing, robust mental health services, and targeted economic support reduce chronic homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starve a community, and you invite instability. This emergency was built strategically. Earlier this year, Republicans in Congress gutted D.C.s budget, freezing funding for everything from violence interruption programs to youth employment initiatives. Its a calculated, exploitative playbook: Cut resources that keep people safe, let the fractures deepen, then point to the damage as proof the city is out of control. Now, Trump leverages this fabricated crisis to justify militarizing the nations capital, while distracting from dominating headlines that further undermine his credibility. Imagine redirecting even a fraction of the D.C. military deployment budget (estimated to be in the millions) into community investments. Research is unequivocal these investments lower crime more sustainably than militarized, force-first approaches. These are real solutions grounded in prevention, not political propaganda. The spectacle of soldiers may project power, but effective public safety comes from prevention, not performance. The District doesnt need occupation; it needs investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We must reject fearmongering and demand an evidence-based response to crime that builds a safer D.C. for all. Cassandra Ramdath is a criminal justice researcher at Georgetown Laws Center for Innovations in Community Safety . Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Condemning antisemitism on campus is nonnegotiable. But whats happening at Harvard right now is about much more than confronting hate its about whether our universities are for sale to the highest political bidder. The Trump administration has dangled a $500 million settlement to end its feud with Harvard, but the fine print would reshape how the university operates from what gets taught, to who oversees faculty, to how students are policed. If Harvard takes this deal without ironclad safeguards, its not just selling out its students and professors. Its setting a precedent: that a White House can use funding as a weapon to force ideological compliance. Weve already seen the playbook. Columbia University paid $200 million to make investigations disappear and in return, accepted an independent monitor reporting directly to the administration, plus sweeping changes to campus governance. As one analysis warned, academic freedom is severely threatened with a provost hanging over Middle Eastern studies and another monitor constantly reporting back to Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Translation: the chilling effect will last far longer than the headlines. Brown University fought for and won a better outcome. Its $50 million settlement came with guarantees that the administration wouldnt dictate Browns curriculum or the content of academic speech and no intrusive oversight. Harvards lawyers are pushing for similar protections, but with 10 times more money on the line, the political pressure is far greater. More than a dozen Democratic members in Congress who attended Harvard cautioned against a settlement on Aug. 1st, warning the university it may warrant rigorous Congressional oversight and inquiry. In a statement, Congressman Sam Liccardo says, We urge Harvard to defend its institutional independence and academic integrity from this blatant attempt at political intimidation. And Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz notes, Harvard must stand firm in defending academic freedom and institutional independence. This is a test of valuesand the University has a chance to lead by example. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Harvard capitulates under financial and political duress, future presidents Republican or Democratic will know they can bypass the courts and instead wield federal funding as a blunt instrument to reshape campus life. That path does not just punish one school; it chills scholarship and discourse nationwide. The truth is, research dollars can be recouped in time. But once universities signal they can be coerced into political compliance, reputations, credibility and intellectual freedom are far harder to restore. Harvard is right to be wary. The settlement it accepts now will not only define this chapter of its history, but it will also set the terms for how and whether higher education in America can resist political retaliation in the decades to come. Lindsey Granger is a News Nation contributor and co-host of The Hills commentary show Rising. This column is an edited transcription of her on-air commentary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Congress has been rightly criticized for not pushing back sooner against executive branch encroachments on first branch constitutional prerogatives. Congresss relative somnolence is understandable though not wholly excusable. The silence on the Hill has been due in large part to the unilateral party control of both houses of Congress and the presidency. There is a certain grace period observed at the outset of a new administration while it gets its ducks in a row on policy and legislative priorities. Missteps and overreach inevitably occur and usually are met by majority party tolerance and inaction on the Hill. This Congress has followed the norm and oversight was overlooked except by the lone voices of protest on the minority party side of the aisle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month we witnessed the first cracks in the stone dam. It occurred on July 22 in the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. There, in the Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement chaired by Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.), ranking member Summer Lee (D-Pa.) offered a motion to subpoena the Justice Department for the complete files of Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died by suicide in prison in 2019. The motion surprisingly carried on an 8-to-2 vote with three Republican members joining all Democrats to adopt the motion. Two of the subcommittees Republicans, including Chairman Higgins, voted against the motion. The subcommittee subsequently adopted by voice vote a motion offered by Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) to subpoena the deposition testimony of a host of former government officials from both parties, including former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, six former attorneys general and two former FBI directors. One of the subpoenaed former officials, Obama Attorney General Eric Holder, was asked on Meet the Press last Sunday whether he would comply with the subpoena. He wouldnt commit, explaining that conversations were ongoing to determine exactly what information the committee wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Program moderator Kristen Welker pressed him, noting that he was the first attorney general in history ever to be held in contempt of Congress in 2012 for his refusal to testify on Operation Fast and Furious, tracking illegal gun sales. Do you have any regrets about that now, and, will that be informing your decision now? Holder explained that the information sought in that instance was confidential internal executive branch communications and, presumably privileged (though only the president can invoke executive privilege). The White House and Justice Department did not attempt to prosecute Holder for criminal contempt of Congress in 2012. Whether the other subpoenaed former attorneys general and FBI directors will take their lead from Holders decision this time will be interesting to watch. What makes the Epstein files disclosure demand especially unique today is President Trumps apparent flip-flop on the issue of disclosure from his previous use of it as one of the major issues on which he campaigned. It was a symbol of bringing down the ruling elites and draining the Washington swamp. That commitment has waned. As pressure grew, the president belatedly directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek release of sealed grand jury transcripts in the Epstein case. That request was denied by a Florida judge. Meanwhile, the president has put out the word that its time to move on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Courts decision in McGrain v. Daugherty in 1927 held that Congress has an inherent right to compel testimony and conduct oversight as part of its constitutional lawmaking functions. The case was an offshoot of the Teapot Dome oil leasing scandal of the early 1920s. In that instance, a Senate select committee was inquiring into why former Attorney General Harry Daughety did not investigate the matter when it first broke. It had subpoenaed Mally Daugherty, the attorney generals brother and president of a bank at the heart of the scandal. When Mally refused to comply with the subpoena he was cited for contempt of Congress and found guilty. The Supreme Court reversed a lower court and upheld Mallys conviction. That 1927 decision did not turn off the spigot and witnesses today are still challenging subpoenas and inviting contempt citations. Whether a contempt citation is prosecuted is solely at the discretion of the Justice Department. The failure by the Justice Department to prosecute Holders contempt of Congress citation in 2012 could well be a precursor to another prolonged battle of the branches. This time Congress could potentially wind-up with a sawed-off limb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Don Wolfensberger is a 28-year congressional staff veteran culminating as chief of staff of the House Rules Committee in 1995. He is author of, Congress and the People: Deliberative Democracy on Trial (2000), and, Changing Cultures in Congress: From Fair Play to Power Plays (2018). Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Many Americans strongly support marriage for same-sex couples 68% nationwide, according to a recent Gallup poll. There is a partisan divide, though, and a small but loud cohort is trying hard to turn back the clock, as with so many of our countrys advances toward equality, liberty and justice for all. Momentarily reclaiming this groups spotlight is former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis, who recently filed an attention-seeking request that the Supreme Court overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 ruling that granted marriage equality for same-sex couples. Her petition, likely the first direct request of its kind, does not clearly tee up significant legal issues for the Roberts Court, mired as it is in her very particular set of facts, and most commentators agree the court is unlikely to take the case. (At an earlier stage of the litigation, in 2020, Justice Clarence Thomas specifically noted that her case did not cleanly present questions about Obergefell to the court.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Instead, her petition may be best understood as part of a broader effort to drag marriage equality down in the public domain. Some in this effort, like the Southern Baptist Convention, Americas largest Protestant denomination, are prioritizing overturning of laws and court rulings, including Obergefell v. Hodges because they defy Gods design for marriage and family. Others, including state lawmakers, have expressed concern about conscience-objections and the need to preserve and grow our human race. Davis takes a different tack in speaking to the court. She sprinkles in plenty of quotes from the Obergefell dissents, with special attention to Chief Justice John Roberts, who said that the court had overstepped its role and that the marriage ruling had no basis in the Constitution. But her core theme is that Obergefell should be tied to the coattails of the courts 2022 ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, which withdrew a half-century of constitutional protection for abortion. Davis, whose responsibilities as clerk in Rowan County, Kentucky, included issuing marriage licenses, had her first taste of fame back in 2015 when she brusquely refused a marriage license to a gay couple 10 days after the courts Obergefell ruling, saying she was acting under Gods authority. When one of the prospective spouses said to Davis that she had likely given marriage licenses to murderer[s], rapists, and people who have done all kinds of horrible things, Davis responded by saying that was fine because they were straight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her new petition comes after a decade of litigation in which Davis repeatedly lost her argument that the Constitution protected her treatment of the couple. She offers the Supreme Court two points about her specific situation, but the petitions main event is in her third question presented. There, in asking the court to decide whether Obergefell and the legal fiction of substantive due process should be overturned, the petition most plainly tries to sink marriage equality by tying it to the courts Dobbs ruling. For starters, she says outright that the court should reverse itself on marriage just like it did on abortion. She acknowledges this would require the court to disregard its commitment, called stare decisis, to stick with its past rulings except in very limited circumstances, but she maintains that, like in Dobbs, the circumstances justify an about-face here. Then she takes a big legal swing, saying the Constitution does not actually prohibit the government from interfering with rights we have long considered fundamental to individual liberty, such as the right to privacy or to marry. This legal doctrine, known as substantive due process, is the foundation not only for Obergefell, but also for many of the courts landmark rulings that protect Americans' day-to-day lives from government interference, including on contraception access for married couples, sodomy laws and parental rights, among others. And it is this doctrine that had long protected access to abortion until the court found, in Dobbs, that it did not, holding instead that a right to abortion is not deeply rooted in the Nations history and tradition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But although Davis urges that getting rid of Obergefell is a logical follow-on to the courts abortion ruling, the court in Dobbs said otherwise. Indeed, Justice Samuel Alito addressed this point specifically in the majority opinion: To ensure that our decision is not misunderstood or mischaracterized, we emphasize that our decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right, and that [n]othing in this opinion should be understood to cast doubt on precedents that do not concern abortion. Likewise, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, who joined the Dobbs majority, wrote his own concurring opinion in which he referred directly to Obergefell and a handful of other substantive due process cases, saying that the decision in Dobbs does not threaten or cast doubt on those precedents. To be sure, we cannot predict what the court will do, and there are many reasons to be skeptical of its promises related to Dobbs' limited scope. Add to that Justice Thomas repeatedly urging his colleagues to reconsider all of the courts past cases that rely on substantive due process, including Obergefell, as well as the 60-year-old landmark case, Griswold v. Connecticut, that struck down a Connecticut law criminalizing the use of contraception, including by married couples. Still, especially in this time of often startling political instability, it is important to see Davis petition for what it is as a legal matter thin and weak in its claims and, as a result, just one of thousands of Supreme Court petitions likely to be denied in the coming term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it is also important to see the petition through a wider lens as a call to action for those who would intertwine restrictions on abortion with restrictions on same-sex marriage. This reminds us, once again, that the price of liberty including in areas such as marriage and reproductive health care, long thought to be constitutionally protected from undue government interference is everyday engagement and eternal vigilance. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com History is chasing President Trump and, come tomorrow, one way or the other, it will find him in Alaska. Many observers warn that his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin could be as globally catastrophic as British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlains was with Nazi Chancellor Adolf Hitler at Munich in 1938. Or it could be worse. Team Trump has the benefit of history as a guide. The next 50 to 100 years of U.S.-Russia relations will likely be determined by how well or how badly Trump knows that history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chamberlains failure at appeasing Hitler is the obvious lesson. But the other lesson, considerably more nuanced, was his unforgiveable negligence in not giving Czechoslovakia or Poland a seat at the negotiating table. Trump is now repeating this same mistake by excluding Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The White Houses excuse is that Putin requested the meeting. By weakly omitting Zelensky, Trump is recklessly making his own mistake far greater than Chamberlains original sin at Munich. Ukraine today, unlike Poland and Czechoslovakia in 1938, has established itself as a bulwark against future Russian aggression in Eastern Europe. If Putin wins, then not only will Ukraine be lost, but Poland, Moldova, Finland and the Baltic States especially the strategic Suwalki Gap will be, to put it in military terms, perilously at risk. Team Trump would be wise to view Putins machinations as akin to a dystopian invasion of Alaska. Ditto the entire West. Putins Foreign Ministry made it clear Wednesday that he is not backing down from his maximalist demands, which would end Ukrainian independence. With this meeting, he is trying once again to win from Team Trump what he has not been able to win in three-and-a-half years of war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian evil, as embodied by Putins ongoing genocide against Ukraine, war crimes and crimes against humanity, will have won out over the notion of core American values of freedom and liberty. In MacBeth-like terms, this dystopia would end up where American fair is foul and Russian foul is fair. If Putin bests Trump in Alaska, it will also result a decisive economic victory by Putin over Trump. The Donbas is estimated to have more than 50 percent of Ukraines rare earth minerals, with a potential economic value of $5.75 trillion. Those funds are needed for Ukraine to repay the U.S. and to rebuild after the war. Recent Kremlin gains, including an ongoing Russian ground breakout in Donetsk earlier this week, are already putting more and more of those Ukrainian rare earth deposits on Putins side of the battle lines. Western Europe is highly alarmed. Not only is Team Trump giving Ukraine the cold shoulder in Alaska, but they are also icing out London and Brussels from any meaningful participation in events that will directly affect their short- and long-term national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is not having it. He met with Zelensky on Wednesday, and the two leaders agreed Ukraine should have the right to join NATO and that Kyiv will not withdraw from the Donbas. Team Trump cannot expect its European NATO allies to take more ownership of their defense including upping military spending to 5 percent of GDP to confront a growing Russian threat while at the same time arguing that Washington has the right to unilaterally negotiate Ukraine and Eastern Europes future with Putin. Rather than keeping Ukraine on the same page, Trump is again resorting to form and criticizing Zelensky in order to buy favor with Putin ahead of the negotiations and just as Putin planned. On Tuesday, by disinviting Zelensky, the White House gave Putin an easy win. Earlier on Monday, Trump slammed Zelensky for insisting that Ukraine would not swap any territory with Russia to end the war. He also heavily criticized Zelensky for claiming he could not do so even if he wanted, given that Ukraines constitution requires Ukraines parliament to vote on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vice President JD Vance had gone even further. He asserted on Fox News Sunday morning that the U.S. is done directly funding the war in Ukraine. As if an exclamation mark, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued an order that allows the return of U.S. weapons and ammunition stationed in Europe that had been intended for Ukraines use. In stark contrast, Putins team is on the same page with their their BRICS trading partners and their Axis of Evil allies, China, Iran and North Korea. Team Trump is dividing and conquering itself, while Team Putin is ideologically invading the 49th state. The result is great harm to our Indo-Pacific and NATO allies. Putin has already banked multiple symbolic wins. For example, in Russia, for some time now, there has been a growing movement to argue that the U.S. illegally gained control of Alaska. One favorite revisionist narrative is that its sale was only a lease, and that the U.S. government fraudulently forged the treaty to make it a permanent land transfer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By allowing Putin to plant his flag on Alaskan soil is to play to the Russian narrative. The Kremlin will use the trip for maximum propaganda purposes. Never mind that Putin is a wanted war criminal currently under indictment by the International Criminal Court. Russian dystopia is not a good destination. Not for our country nor for our people. Team Trump frequently touts that they always put America first. If so, come Friday, that means putting Putin last. Trump still has home field advantage, and its not over until its over. He must make clear that Washington will not allow Ukraine to be defeated by Putin, nor will we abandon our NATO allies in the face of current and future Russian aggression. Mark Toth writes on national security and foreign policy. Col. (Ret.) Jonathan Sweet served 30 years as an Army intelligence officer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. During a podcast interview on Sunday, the normally eloquent Pete Buttigieg became tongue-tied when the subject turned to Israel. Asked on "Pod Save America" if he would have voted in favor of recent Senate measures to block the sale of bombs and guns to Israel, the former transportation secretary and potential 2028 White House hopeful declined to give a clear answer. And he offered up strikingly noncommittal responses for the next couple of questions on Israel policy as well. But after catching flak for ducking the questions, he has now come out with some clearer statements that position him more progressively than his initial dodges seemed to suggest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His initial refusal to speak clearly, followed by some careful clarifications days later, speaks to a few things as we prepare for the long lead-up to the 2028 election. Namely, how the politics surrounding Israel policy are shifting in the Democratic Party, and how moderates are feeling pressure to find the new center on the issue while venturing into finally questioning the U.S.-Israeli relationship. In the "Pod Save America" interview, Buttigieg was vague on his stance on U.S. support for Israel. "I think we need to insist that if American taxpayer funding is going to weaponry that is going to Israel, but that is not going to things that shock the conscience," he said. Then, over the course of a windy response about how it's "unconscionable" to cause childhood starvation, Buttigieg declined to say how he'd "insist" that Israel doesn't carry on with its policies. When asked if the U.S.-Israel relationship should change based on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's conduct, Buttigieg's response was similarly vague: "Netanyahu can't be the only voice, or kind of the only compass for what should happen in the U.S. Israel relationship." He added, "I think that we, as Israel's strongest ally and friend, you put your arm around your friend when there's something like this going on, and talk about what we're prepared to do together." And when asked if he'd recognize Palestine as a state as many of the U.S.'s allies, including the United Kingdom and France, are now doing in a bid to pressure Israel Buttigieg again offered a nonresponse. "I think that's a profound question that arouses a lot of the biggest problems that have happened with Israel's survival, Israel's right to survival, in the diplomatic scene," he said, "and many of the people who have taken that step historically have done so for different reasons than what we see happening with European countries." You can see his full comments here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Buttigieg was criticized online for his evasive answers by progressive pundits, as well as Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and former Obama deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes. Buttigieg appeared to take note. On Thursday, Buttigieg told Politico's Playbook, "I get it," and provided some meatier responses to them, which Playbook summarized: Would he have voted for Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) proposed arms embargo against Israel? Yes. Would he recognize a Palestinian state? Yes, as part of a two-state solution. Should the U.S. pass another 10-year agreement with Israel for foreign military aid? No. Days after talking about bear-hugging a man perpetrating genocide in Gaza, these positions hardly place him in the progressive wing of the party. And his position on recognizing Palestine as a state, at least as summarized by Politico, still seems ambiguous. But it's notable that Buttigieg decided to announce that he supported cutting off at least some aid to Israel. Buttigieg's hesitation, followed by a willingness to draw some lines on aid to Israel, reflect the search for a new moderate position. He is a standard-bearer of the moderate wing of the party, and as a buzzy potential White House hopeful, likely has his eyes on how his positions on Israel now might age in the coming years. That search is surely affected by Democratic voters' souring on Israel and intensifying opposition to its military operation in Gaza. It's a sign that the long-held Democratic orthodoxy of backing Israel right-or-wrong may be beginning to erode. This article was originally published on MSNBC.com Nicolas Maduro, the dictator of Venezuela, is on the ropes. President Trump has directed the Pentagon to prepare options for the possible use of military force against drug cartels. The Cartel de los Soles, linked to the Venezuelan government, was designated as a foreign terrorist organization. And a $50 million reward the highest in U.S. history was announced for the capture of Maduro himself. The reward on Maduros head is not just a random number, but a sign of the weight the Trump administration places on the Chavista tyranny. Numbers matter. The reward for Osama Bin Laden was $25 million and was$30 million for Saddam Husseins sons. In the case of Mexican drug lords, El Chapo Guzman reached $5 million and Rafael Caro Quintero $20 million. All of these men were arrested or assassinated. Rewards matter and determine the fate of many terrorists and tyrants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the direct connection between Maduros regime and terrorist organizations such as the Cartel de los Soles and Tren de Aragua. Rubio also emphasized that this designation provides legal authority to target them in ways you cant if theyre just a bunch of criminals. Its no longer a law enforcement issue. It has become a national security issue. It allows us to now target what theyre operating and to use other elements of American power, intelligence agencies, the Department of Defense, whatever. But Maduro isnt just a threat in terms of international drug trafficking. He is a threat to Venezuelans themselves. According to United Nations reports, the government of Venezuela continues to engage in actions constituting crimes against humanity, including persecution of political leaders, imprisonment of civic rights defenders and severe deprivation of physical liberty, and other crimes. Maria Corina Machado, Venezuelas main opposition leader, said Maduro poses a threat to hemispheric security. Indeed, Venezuela represents the most urgent crisis in the Western Hemisphere, and its final resolution is everyones responsibility. Machado also noted that Maduros criminal regime continues to repress and violate human rights, implementing practices that constitute state terrorism, according to the Inter American Commission of Human Rights. The latest signals issued by the U.S. are unwavering. This doesnt sound like a warning, but like a warrant. The days of sanctions and statements are over in the face of a regime that seems indifferent and immovable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1989, the U.S. implemented Operation Just Cause, invading Panama in order to extract narco-dictator Manuel Noriega and to recognize the true winner of that countrys presidential elections. Maduro in Venezuela, like Noriega before him, has become a vociferous narco-dictator who opposes the U.S. But in 2025, it is no longer necessary to have a massive deployment of troops on the ground. The recent U.S. airstrikes in Iran known as Operation Midnight Hammer demonstrated that other resources are available to change the course of history. Very specific actions and precise objectives can help bring about regime change from within, or at least alter the status quo. After nearly 25 years of the Chavista regime, the situation in Venezuela is worsening every day. International collaboration is needed to end a tragedy that represents a clear and present danger to Latin America and the U.S. What happens in Venezuela will have an extraordinary impact on preventing, persuading and weakening other dictatorships in the Western Hemisphere. Peace through strength is urgently needed to renew and recover U.S. leadership as a guarantor and defender of security, democracy and freedom for all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arturo McFields is an exiled journalist, former Nicaraguan ambassador to the Organization of American States, and a former member of the Norwegian Peace Corps. He is an alumnus of the National Defense Universitys Security and Defense Seminar and the Harvard Leadership course. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Brief Milwaukee County approved $9 million in funding for opioid prevention, recovery and treatment projects. U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore highlighted the need to focus on veterans in substance abuse recovery efforts. The $9 million comes from an opioid settlement. MILWAUKEE COUNTY, Wis. - Milwaukee County is taking another swing in the fight against the opioid epidemic. What we know On Tuesday, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley and Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson signed legislation approving $9 million in funding for seven projects aimed at opioid use disorder abatement, prevention and recovery programs. The $9 million comes from an opioid settlement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android What they're saying U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wisconsin) attended the signing, held outside the veterans organization Dryhootch on Brady Street, emphasizing the impact of the opioid crisis on veterans. "Our veterans are some of our most precious citizens, and they go off and protect our country and, so often, they are forgotten in our programming," Moore said. "So I am so pleased that we are going to center our heroes in this struggle against substance abuse disorders." The Source FOX6 News attended the signing and received information from Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley's office. LOS ALAMOS, N.M. (KRQE) The Oppenheimer Festival is returning to Los Alamos from August 16 31. The theme for the 2025 festival is Peace, Legacy & Explore. The festival received New Mexicos 2024 Top HAT Award for best new experience. What is the Farmers Almanac predicting for the 2025-26 winter season in New Mexico? The festival includes an opening day walk to the Oppenheimer house and a tribute to Nancy Bartlit. There will be daily screenings of the Manhattan Series, VR experiences and short films. There will be guided and self-guided audio driving tours, festival tour with Augmented Reality and Road to The Hill. Guests can enjoy guest appearances by historians, filmmakers and activists. Peace Week is August 21 21 and Legacy Week is August 28 31. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guests will have an opportunity to explore the city through film, museums, history and augmented reality. The festival is timed alongside Santa Fe Indian Market (Aug 21-24) and Zozobra (Aug 29). 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 KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. People walk through the rain at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm near Woodburn in April 2024. The farm, which hosts an annual spring tulip fest, is one of many Oregon businesses that combine agriculture and tourism. (Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Oregons countryside comes alive during farm season. Tulips in the spring, berry-picking in the summer and pumpkin patches in the fall attract visitors to the bucolic farm stands that dot the Willamette Valley and beyond. But as crowds have gotten denser, with reports of hours-long traffic on single-lane roads at the most popular farms, some legislators are seeking solutions to mitigate the effect of agritourism in agricultural zones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A recent rulemaking process from the Department of Land and Conservation Development could have limited what can be sold at farm stands, but an outsized public response to the potential rules put the process on an indefinite pause. Legislators are still deliberating over how to move forward with the rulemaking or if they should at all, considering the controversy it caused. One of the groups at the center of the debate was 1000 Friends of Oregon, a nonprofit organization that advocates for land use planning. They participated in the rulemaking advisory committee that was meant to inform legislators on a number of agritourism issues, not just farm stand policies. The group said the pause was the result of a misunderstanding about what the rulemaking was intended to do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its not about saying no to things like agritourism, said Anna Kemper, membership experience manager of 1000 Friends of Oregon. Its about managing impact, making sure that one farms business model doesnt negatively impact others. From March to July, the rulemaking advisory committee convened monthly to discuss one or two agritourism issues and then make a recommendation to the Land Conservation and Development Commission, which implements state land use rules. But in recent months, the discussion focused primarily on farm stand regulations after one of the members of the committee the Oregon Property Owners Association sponsored a bill that would have expanded whats sold at farm stands. The groups goal was to address longstanding confusion over farm stand policies, like a rule that says three-quarters of a farm stands products must be sourced from the farm, but is unclear on what exactly counts under that rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But one Yamhill County farmer said the groups goal to expand farm stand allowances would have blown out the sideboards on farm stands. Thats according to Sid Friedman, a hay farmer and board member of the land use planning and policy organization Friends of Yamhill County. He served on a legislative working group that eventually led to the rulemaking process on farm stands. Friedman was worried about the cumulative impact of using farm stands to sell not just farm products but other activities like weddings, concerts, and farm-to-table dinners in Oregons farmland. The cumulative impacts of all these commercial uses, which arent farming in the exclusive farm-use zone, is driving up the price of farmland here in Yamhill County and around the state, Friedman said. Somebody who just wants to farm cant compete with what people who want to put in a commercial venue can pay for the land. Pumpkins rest in a field with Smith Rock State Park in the background in 2017. The Smith Rock Ranch, like other Oregon farms, attracts visitors with fall-themed activities. (Julia Shumway/Oregon Capital Chronicle) These concerns led to the most recent feedback from the rulemaking advisory committee, which toned down the farm stand rules the Oregon Property Owners Association was pushing for. Notably, the feedback recommended an impact assessment on neighboring properties of any farm stand wanting to pursue agritourism activities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DLCD was expected to release a draft rule to follow this feedback on Sept. 1. But in late July, several farms around Oregon rang alarm bells on social media about the potential rules, spurring more than 2,300 emails and phone calls from the public. Two of the most vocal farmers against the rulemaking were Jim Abeles and Kat Topaz, owners of Topaz Farm on Sauvie Island. They were worried that the potential rules would harm people trying to start an agritourism business. It would be stricter and more expensive and more difficult for anybody who wants to get into agritourism, Abeles said. Topaz Farm, founded in 2020, serves as one of the main farm destinations for Portlanders. Beyond selling produce, it has a petting zoo, offers farm-to-table dinners and hosts a live music series in the summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The farms owners posted their concerns on social media about what the rules might do to farms like theirs, with one video surpassing a million views on Instagram. They pointed to a decrease in the number of farms nationwide as one reason the rulemaking could further harm small and mid-size farm operations. We want more farms, we want more competition because we think that its good for agriculture, its good for the public, and its important while farms are being lost everywhere, Abeles said. Shortly after the public backlash about the rules, Gov. Tina Kotek ordered a temporary pause on the rulemaking process. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I want to reassure farmers who have been anxious and frustrated about how proposed changes to existing rules regarding farm stand operations may affect their businesses that I hear you and am paying attention, Kotek said in a public statement. I have directed DLCD to pause the rulemaking process to allow for more conversations with all interested parties and the public on this really important agri-tourism issue. 1000 Friends of Oregon is fine if the rulemaking process ends completely. I think if it just went away, we would be fine as far as farm stands are concerned, said Jim Johnson, the organizations working lands policy director. Hes more interested in working on other agritourism issues prioritized by the Land Conservation and Development Commission, like urban growth planning and the rezoning of agricultural land. We can get to work on more important issues that relate to protecting Oregons valuable farmland, he said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Like many such confabs before it, the Aug. 15, 2025, Alaska red carpet rollout for Russian President Vladimir Putin is classic Donald Trump: A show of diplomacy as pageantry that seemingly came out of nowhere, replete with vague goals and hardened expectations about the outcome from Trump supporters and opponents alike before the event has even taken place. Trump is seemingly trying to dial down expectations, billing the summit as a feel-out meeting with the Russian leader to try to reach a diplomatic solution to the more than 3-year-old Russian war in Ukraine. The event follows a recent period where Trump had become more critical of Putins role in continuing the war, giving the Russian leader a 50-day deadline to end the war or else face new U.S. sanctions. Trump subsequently reversed course on military support for Ukraine and stepped up weapons shipments. However, he has always made it clear that his priority is to restore a good relationship with Russia, rather than save Ukraine from defeat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps track record of admiration for Putin and the summit format that excludes both Ukraine and its European allies has provided ample fodder for critics of U.S. policy under Trump. Military scholar Lawrence Freedman expressed a common critical refrain in expressing fears that Trump will concede Putins core demands in Ukraine in return for a ceasefire. Likewise, CNNs international security editor, correspondent Nick Paton Walsh, said, It is hard to see how a deal emerges from the bilateral that does not eviscerate Ukraine. Indeed, few mainstream establishment commentators in the U.S. or European capitals are supporting Trumps initiative, though Anatole Lieven, at the anti-interventionist Quincy Institute, was one of the few giving at least a lukewarm endorsement. Meanwhile, in Moscow, despite Trumps vague talk of a land swap that implies Ukraine could regain some lost territory, the uniformly pro-government Russian press is already hailing the upcoming summit as a victory for Putin and a a catastrophe for Kyiv, as the MK newspaper declared. Still, as a long-time observer of Russian politics, I believe it would be premature to write off the summit as an exercise doomed to fail. Respected Russian emigre journalist Tatyana Stanovaya, for one, has argued that the meeting offers the first more or less real attempt to stop the war. And there are several important developments that mainstream commentary has overlooked in arguing against prospects for the Alaska summit. What has changed? Despite Trumps repeated pledge to end the war in Ukraine, there has been no progress to that end thus far. Trumps earlier efforts to broker a ceasefire, in February and April, were both rebuffed by Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But since then, a number of factors have shifted that could allow Trump some leverage in talks this time around. Seven months into his second term, Trump appears flush with confidence and has shown more willingness to project power to advance American interests. In June, he joined Israels airstrikes against Iran, Russias biggest ally in the Middle East. On Aug. 8, he hosted the presidents of Armenia and Azerbaijan at the White House to sign a historic peace deal a huge diplomatic defeat for Russia, which historically has dominated the politics of the south Caucasus region. Trumps ongoing global trade war is also alarming for Russia. On Aug. 7, Trump slapped punitive new tariffs on 90 countries that failed to make deals before his deadline. Trump has shown himself willing to use American power to bully trade partners who cannot effectively retaliate such as Brazil, Canada, Switzerland and now India. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, Trump noticed that India bought $80 billion of Russian oil last year more than China. On Aug. 6, the same day that Trump announced the Alaska meeting, he imposed 50 percent tariffs on India, which will not come into effect for 21 days unless India cuts back on imports of Russian crude. That creates real leverage for Trump against Putin should he want to use it in Alaska. With the Russian economy under strain and with global oil prices falling, Russia risks losing critical revenue from selling oil to India. That could conceivably be the tipping point for Putin, persuading him to halt the war. Why it still may not be enough As significant as those shifts could be, there are still several grounds for skepticism. First, India may ignore Trumps oil sanction. Key Indian exports to the U.S., such as iPhones and pharmaceuticals, are exempt from the 50 percent tariff, and they account for about $20 billion of Indias $80 billion annual exports to the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, the global oil market is highly adaptable. Russian oil not bought by India could easily be picked up by China, Turkey, Italy, Malaysia, and others. Even if Russia lost $10 billion to $20 billion as a result of the India sanctions, with overall government revenue of $415 billion a year, that would not derail Moscows ability to wage war on Ukraine. The devil in the details It remains unclear what Trump actually wants to achieve in Alaska. The details of the deal he is trying to persuade Putin to accept are unclear. For the Trump administration, the basic idea for ending the conflict appears to be land for peace: an end to military action by both sides and de facto recognition of the Ukrainian territory currently occupied by Russian forces. One glaring problem with this formulation is that Russia does not control all the territory of the four Ukrainian provinces that it claims. They occupy nearly all of Luhansk, but not all of Donetsk, and only 60 percent of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. If Russia insists on taking all of Donetsk province, for example, Ukraine would have to hand over about 2,500 square miles (6,500 square kilometers), with 200,000 people, mainly in the cities of Kramatorsk and Slovyansk. It is hard to imagine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreeing to such a concession. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet it is equally hard to see Putin giving up his claim to all four provinces, which were formally incorporated into the Russian Federation in October 2022. In a June 2024 speech to the Russian foreign ministry, Putin laid out his most thorough analysis of the root causes and course of the conflict. He stated that the legal status of the four provinces as part of Russia is closed forever and is no longer a matter for discussion. Clearly, the territorial question is the biggest hurdle facing any would-be peacemaker, including Trump. Other issues, such as Ukraines request for security guarantees, or Russias demands for the denazification and demilitarization of Ukraine, could be dealt with later through negotiation and third-party mediation. There are other factors that play into the chances of peace now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Ukrainian and Russian societies are tired of a conflict that neither of them wanted. But at the same time, in neither country does most of the public want peace at any price. If Trump can persuade Putin to agree to give up his claims to the entire territory of the four provinces in Ukraines east, that would be a substantial concession and one that Zelenskyy may be well-advised to pocket. Putin would also expect something in return such as the lifting of international sanctions and restoration of full diplomatic relations with the U.S. Then Putin could fly back to Moscow and tell the Russian people that Russia has won the war. If such a deal transpires in Alaska, Trump would then face the challenge of persuading Ukraine and Europeans to accept it. However, given Putins apparent confidence that Russia is winning the war, it remains unlikely that he will be persuaded by anything that Trump has to offer in Anchorage. Peter Rutland is a professor of government at Wesleyan University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. The post The Outcome of the Putin-Trump Summit Might Surprise Critics appeared first on Katie Couric Media. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto on Aug. 13 condemned a Ukrainian drone strike on a key distribution station of the Druzhba oil pipeline in Russia's Bryansk Oblast, emphasizing Hungary's role as an electricity supplier to Ukraine. "Hungary is Ukraine's number one electricity supplier. Without us, the country's energy security would be highly unstable," Szijjarto wrote on X. "Given this, the Ukrainian attack on the Druzhba pipeline, which supplies Hungary with oil and is vital to our energy security, is outrageous." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hungary is the leader in both Ukraine's electricity imports and exports. As of the first half of June, 44% of imported electricity to Ukraine came from Hungary, Daria Orlova from ExPro Consulting told RBK-Ukraine. The Druzhba pipeline is one of the world's largest oil pipelines. Hungary, which relies on the line for most of its crude oil, is among the two remaining European Union countries together with Slovakia still importing Russian oil via Druzhba under an exemption from EU sanctions. Hungary is broadly seen as the most Kremlin-friendly government in the EU and NATO. The country has consistently obstructed aid to Ukraine and sanctions against Russia throughout the full-scale war. Szijjarto accused Ukraine of "endangering Hungary's energy supply" and called on Kyiv to halt attacks on energy infrastructure serving Hungary, saying Budapest "has nothing to do with" the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is not the first time Budapest has complained about such strikes. In March, Hungary said a Ukrainian drone attack on Druzhba infrastructure in Russia's Oryol region temporarily halted its oil imports. A Ukrainian military intelligence source and the Armed Forces confirmed that the Aug. 13 attack targeted the Unecha oil pumping station, one of the largest nodes in the Druzhba network. The strike, carried out in coordination with the military, resulted in damage, multiple explosions, and a large fire, Ukraine said. The facility, located about 60 kilometers (35 miles) from the Russia-Ukraine border, serves two pipelines with a combined annual capacity of 60 million metric tons and also supports Russia's defense industry, the Ukrainian military said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv's forces have consistently targeted the Russian oil industry, a key source of Russia's state revenues that helps fund Moscow's all-out war against Ukraine. Read also: As Putin, Trump debate Ukraines future borders, Donetsk Oblast residents are split on what they would accept to end the war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. > < 23:45 In a first, two Agniveers get Sena Medal In a first, two Agniveers from the Indian Army have been conferred a prestigious military honour for their acts of gallantry, officials said on the eve of the 79th Independence Day.Agniveer Kulveer Singh of 7 Sikh Light Infantry and Agniveer Mood Muralinaik of 851 Light Regiment have been... Read more > 23:35 Better to be 'recalcitrant': Tharoor on Bessent In an apparent swipe at US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for stating that India has been a bit recalcitrant on trade negotiations with America, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday said it is far better to be recalcitrant, than to be 'tractable, submissive or acquiescent to... Read more > 23:05 India protests violence against nationals in Ireland India said on Thursday that it has strongly taken up with Ireland incidents of violence against Indian nationals in that country.At the same time, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal noted that Irish President Michael D Higgins and Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris publicly... Read more > 21:45 Engaged with China to resume border trade: India India on Thursday said it remained engaged with China to facilitate the resumption of border trade through designated transit points.The border trade between the two countries was stopped in view of the eastern Ladakh military standoff in 2020.We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to... Read more > 21:43 Govt should not decide people's eating patterns: Raj Thackeray Maharashtra Navnirman Sena president Raj Thackeray on Thursday opposed the meat ban imposed by some civic bodies in the state on Independence Day, underscoring that the government should not decide the eating patterns of the people.He said the civic bodies do not have the right to impose such a... Read more > 20:21 Prez Murmu hails Op Sindoor in I-Day address President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday lauded the nation's decisive response to Pahalgham terrorist attack in Kashmir, highlighting the success of Operation Sindoor and emphasising the country's unity and growing self-reliance in the defence sector.In her address to the nation on the eve of 79th... Read more > 20:05 List of voters with multiple IDs shared with parties: EC On a day the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to publish details of 65 lakh deleted names from the voters list of Bihar, the poll authority on Thursday said it has been sharing the list of deceased electors and those with multiple voter cards with political parties.It also said that... Read more > 18:57 Abdullah cancels tea party, cultural events on Independence Day Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has cancelled the 'At Home' tea party and cultural events during Independence Day celebrations on Friday following the loss of lives in a cloudburst in Kishtwar district.A massive cloudburst struck Chositi village on Thursday, killing at least 38... Read more > 18:21 Tariffs on India could go up if Trump-Putin talks fail Pic: Reuters US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that the secondary tariffs on India could go up if things don't go well during talks between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. Last week, Trump imposed tariffs totalling 50 per cent on India,... Read more > 18:17 Stalin to skip TN governor's I-Day tea party Chief Minister M K Stalin will not take part in the tea party to be hosted by Governor R N Ravi on Independence Day, the Tamil Nadu government said on Thursday. The chief minister's boycott of the At Home Reception is to show opposition to Governor Ravi, who acts against the interests of... Read more > 17:41 Actor Darshan arrested after SC cancels bail Kannada actor Darshan was arrested on Thursday after his bail was cancelled by the Supreme Court in the Renukaswamy murder case.His arrest came shortly after his friend and actress Pavithra Gowda, the prime accused in the case, was taken into police custody.According to police sources, Darshan... Read more > 17:18 India warns Pak of consequences of hateful speech Representational image. Pic: Akhtar Soomro/Reuters India on Thursday warned Pakistan not to continue with its hateful rhetoric against New Delhi saying any misadventure will have painful consequences.New Delhi's reaction came days after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir's nuclear threat against India as well as certain remarks by Bilawal Bhutto... Read more > 16:56 Name 65L people deleted from Bihar voter list: SC to ECI The Supreme Court on Thursday directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to publish details of 65 lakh deleted names from the voters list with reasons of non-inclusion to enhance transparency in Bihar's special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral roll. A bench of Justices Surya Kant... Read more > 16:46 Shubhanshu Shukla likely to arrive in India this weekend Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the second Indian to travel to space and the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS), is expected to arrive in India this weekend, Union minister Jitendra Singh said on Thursday.Singh said Shukla is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during... Read more > 16:45 17 killed, 65 rescued in massive cloudburst in J-K Large-scale rescue and relief operations have been launched after a massive cloudburst struck a remote village in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district on Thursday, killing at least 17 people and leading to widespread damage, officials said. The disaster hit Chositi, the last motorable... Read more > 16:26 SP expels MLA hours after she praised CM Adityanath Pooja Pal The Samajwadi Party on Thursday expelled its MLA Pooja Pal, for alleged anti-party activities, hours after she praised Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the assembly for putting gangster-politician Atiq Ahmad to dust. In a letter issued to the MLA, the party accused Pal of... Read more > 16:11 IndiGo ready to resume India-China flights IndiGo is prepared to restart its flights from India to China as soon as the necessary bilateral agreements between the two countries are in place, the airline's chief executive Pieter Elbers said on Thursday.IndiGo operated daily flights between India and China prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.... Read more > 16:08 Renukaswamy murder: Darshan spotted at K'taka-TN border Kannada actress Pavithra Gowda, one of the key accused in Renukaswamy murder case, was taken into police custody on Thursday after her bail was cancelled by the Supreme Court. According to police sources, a team reached Gowda's house soon after the news broke that the bail of all the accused... Read more > 16:04 WPI inflation in negative for second month Wholesale price inflation (WPI) stayed in negative territory for the second consecutive month at (-) 0.58 per cent in July, as prices of food articles and fuel saw deflation, even though prices of manufactured items increased, government data showed on Thursday. WPI-based inflation was (-)... Read more > 16:02 Days after Trump's 'dead economy' jibe, India gets upgrade S&P on Thursday upgraded India's sovereign credit rating to 'BBB' with a stable outlook after a gap of nearly 19 years, citing robust economic growth, political commitment for fiscal consolidation and 'conducive' monetary policy to check inflation.India remains among the best performing... Read more > 15:43 Omar briefs Shah on cloudburst, says news 'grim and accurate' Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday briefed Union Home Minister Amit Shah about the situation following a massive cloudburst in a remote village in Kishtwar district. He said the news is grim and accurate and verified information is slow in arriving. The cloudburst... Read more > 15:31 Deeply appreciate Pak's engagement on counter-terrorism: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday extended greetings to the people of Pakistan on Independence Day and said the US was looking forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including in critical minerals and hydrocarbons.Rubio's congratulatory message came as Pakistan and the... Read more > 15:22 Pakistan announces creation of new Army Rocket Force Pakistan has announced the creation of a new force - the Army Rocket Force - equipped with advanced technology and intended to serve as a milestone in strengthening its combat capabilities. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made the announcement at an event late Wednesday night to mark the 78th... Read more > 15:19 In a first, Indian aquanauts go 5000-metre deep into ocean Representational image Around a month after Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station, India sent an aquanaut 5,000 metres deep into the ocean in a first-of-its-kind expedition earlier this month. Conducted in partnership with France, two Indian aquanauts successfully... Read more > 15:05 Kishtwar cloudburst: 12 bodies found, 2 NDRF teams deployed Update: 12 bodies have been recovered from the cloudburst-hit village in J-K's Kishtwar area; the toll could go up. Two NDRF teams have been moved from Udhampur to Kishtwar. The cloudburst hit Chasoti, is the last motorable village en route to the Machail Mata shrine. The annual yatra... Read more > 14:51 WPI inflation declines to 2-year low in July Wholesale price inflation declined to a 2-year low of (-) 0.58 per cent in July, as deflation in food and fuel kept WPI in the negative zone for the second consecutive month, government data released on Thursday showed. Experts, however, projected WPI inflation to move back into positive... Read more > 14:46 If they win EVM good, if they lose EVM bad: ECI to SC Bihar SIR row: ECI begins arguments, tells SC it has enough reservoir of power to take certain decisions. Operating in atmosphere of sharp political hostility, hardly any decision which is not contested, ECI tells SC. Caught between struggle of political parties, if they win EVM is... Read more > 14:17 Can't ignore what happened in Pahalgam: SC on statehood plea The Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, heard a plea seeking directions to the Centre for the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.The court noted that the ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be ignored while granting statehood and said that the events in... Read more > 14:13 Massive cloudburst in J-K's Kishtwar, 10 dead Locals carry the injured amid the cloudburst in Chositi A massive cloudburst has occurred in Chositi in J-K's Kishtwar district resulting in 10 deaths. Union Minister Jitendra Singh says there could be many casualties. Just now spoke to DC Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma after receiving an urgent message from J&K LoP and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma.... Read more > 13:57 SC on plea to return elephants from Vantara: Totally Vague Madhuri, the elephant, at Vantara The Supreme Court on Thursday termed as completely vague a plea seeking to constitute a monitoring committee to return the captive elephants in Vantara, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre for wild animals. A bench of Justices Pankaj Mithal and P B Varale told advocate C R Jaya... Read more > 13:01 Delhi HC to hear AAP's plea for Kejriwal's residence on Aug 25 The Delhi High Court briefly heard a petition filed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), seeking a directive to the central government to allot residential accommodation in the national capital to its national convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal.On Wednesday, Justice Sachin Datta... Read more > 12:56 Give proof, don't use dirty phrases like 'vote chori': EC Opposition protests wearing T-shirts on 'vote chori' Amid relentless attacks by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over alleged voter data fudging, the Election Commission on Thursday said instead of creating false narrative by using dirty phrases like 'vote chori', proof should be given. In a statement, the EC said the law for one person one vote... Read more > 12:45 Nitish conducts aerial survey of flooded Bihar Bihar CM Nitish Kumar conducts an aerial survey of flood-affected areas in the state. More than 16 lakh people have been affected by floods in Bihar, where several rivers are in spate due to torrential rainfall in the past 24 hours, officials said on Monday. Read more > 12:37 Delhi grinds to a halt, massive waterlogging everywhere Heavy rain brought Delhi to a standstill on Thursday morning, leaving roads waterlogged and traffic gridlocked. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange' alert, warning of more rain during the day. During the 24-hour period which ended at 8.30 am on Thursday, Delhi's... Read more > 12:09 ICICI Bank U-turn: Minimum balance to be Rs 15,000 In a major relief to its customers, ICICI Bank on Thursday announced a rollback of its recent decision to hike the minimum average monthly balance (MAB) for certain savings accounts to Rs 50,000. The private sector lender has now reduced the MAB requirement to Rs 15,000. The bank had in... Read more > 11:45 Regardless of popularity...: SC cancels Darshan's bail Observing that persons regardless of popularity are equal before the law, the Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail granted to actor Darshan and other accused in the Renukaswamy murder case. A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan set aside the Karnataka High Court order,... Read more > 11:27 SC reserves order on stray dogs Stray dog bites have led to rabies and death in several cases The Supreme Court reserves order on the interim prayer seeking a stay on the August 11 order of picking up strays from streets. Everyone who has filed intervention will have to own responsibility, says SC. The court says the whole problem is because of inaction of local authorities. The... Read more > 11:17 Yamuna nears warning mark in Delhi File pic The water level of the Yamuna river in Delhi reached 204.43 metres at the Old Railway Bridge, nearing the warning level of 204.50 metres, officials said on Thursday. According to the officials, the situation is being monitored and all the agencies concerned have been asked to take... Read more > 11:02 SC cancels bail to actor Darshan in Renukaswamy murder case The Supreme Court cancels bail granted to actor Darshan in the Renukaswamy murder case. The SC says Karnataka HC order granting bail to actor Darshan suffers from serious infirmity. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan said the High Court's decision suffered from serious legal... Read more > 10:57 Nobody is a animal hater but...: SC hears stray dogs case The Supreme Court on Thursday commenced hearing in a matter related to stray dogs in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). A three-judge bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N V Anjaria is hearing the matter. Over 37 lakh reported dog bites in a year in country, Solicitor... Read more > 10:47 15-yr-old boy running a race dies, cardiac arrest suspected Representational image A 15-year-old boy died while practising for a race at a government-aided inter college in Nanpara in Bahraich district, college officials said on Thursday. Himanshu, a class 9 student at Sa'aadat Inter College and a resident of Bhaggapurwa village, was participating in a 100-metre sprint with... Read more > 10:31 Answer is no: Trump on persuading Putin to end Ukraine war File pic 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... Read more > 10:12 Year after girl goes 'missing', her uncle, aunt held for murder Representational image A man allegedly beat his four-year-old niece to death last year and he and his wife then wrapped the body in a mattress and dumped it at an isolated place in Maharashtra's Raigad district, police said. After probing the case of the 'missing' girl for nearly a year, the Thane police made a... Read more > 10:04 3-tier kavach set up along LoC ahead of I-Day The Indian Army has deployed a three-tiered robotic counter-infiltration grid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar village of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations.Speaking to ANI on Thursday, an Indian Army officer said that the troops are... Read more > 09:54 Operation Sindoor to dominate PM-led I-Day celebrations File pic 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... Read more > 09:53 Leander Paes' father & Olympian dies at 80 Leander with his father, Vece. File pic Vece Paes, member of bronze-winning Indian hockey team at 1972 Olympics and father of tennis player Leander Paes dies at 80 years of age. Read more > 09:10 Man chatting with girl beaten to death In Maharashtra Representational image A 20-year-old man was allegedly beaten to death by ten persons in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra after they spotted him chatting with a girl, leading to the arrest of four individuals, police said on Wednesday.Police suspect an old enmity led to the murder of Suleiman Khan, who was preparing for... Read more > 08:49 Himachal rain havoc: 241 deaths, 323 roads damaged The public infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh continues to be severely affected due to rains with 323 roads, 70 electricity distribution transformers (DTRs), and 130 water supply schemes disrupted in the past 24 hours due to heavy rains and related incidents, according to the State Disaster... Read more > 01:06 Maha minister Bhujbal says he won't attend flag-hoisting in Gondia Maharashtra food and civil supplies minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Wednesday said he has told the government that he will not be able to go to Gondia for the official flag-hoisting ceremony on Independence Day. I am not upset, the veteran Nationalist Congress Party leader said, adding that... Read more > 00:59 SBI to impose nominal charges on IMPS beyond Rs 25K transfer from Aug 15 The country's largest lender State Bank of India (SBI) has revised charges on fund transfers through the IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) effective from August 15. Although there is no change in charges for fund transfer through IMPS done via branch, fund transfer above Rs 25,00o would... Read more > NEED TO KNOW At least 37 people have died after a flash flood triggered by a cloudburst impacted Kashmir and other nearby areas on Thursday, Aug. 8 More than 150 people are said to have been rescued, including 50 people who were seriously injured Another 200 people remain missing as the region reels from its second flood disaster in less than two weeks More than three dozen people are dead after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Kashmir and other nearby areas. Authorities have announced that at least 37 people have died after the cloudburst in the Chositi village in the Indian-controlled region on Thursday, Aug. 8, according to Agence France-Presse and the Associated Press. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 200 people went missing in the wake of the second flood disaster to impact the Himalayas in the last two weeks, The Guardian reported. More than 150 people have been rescued, including around 50 people who were seriously injured, AFP and the AP reported. A community kitchen and a security post reportedly were among the sites along the pilgrimage route to the Machail Mata temple that were washed away by floodwaters, according to The Guardian. The Machail Mata yatra began on July 25 and is expected to end on September 5, according to The Tribune. Officials said the annual yatra to the Machail Mata shrine was suspended in the wake of the tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 200 pilgrims were at the community kitchen when the disaster occurred, according to the AP. Omar Abdullah, chief minister of Indias federal territory of Jammu and Kashmir, said in a post on X that all possible resources are being mobilised to assist with rescue operations. The news is grim and accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving, Abdullah said. Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi also said in a post on X that rescue and relief operations are underway and the situation is being monitored closely. 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. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, Modi wrote. He later added, Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Union Minister Jitendra Singh said in a separate post on X that additional rescue teams are finding it difficult to reach the site of the cloud burst, yet they are trying despite all the constraints. Road has been washed off and the weather is not helicopter-worthy, Singh added. A cloudburst is a sudden, very heavy rainfall, usually local in nature and of brief duration, and is said to be especially common in mountainous areas, according to Britannica. Read the original article on People Just a few blocks from Riverside, a row of century-old bungalows in Mixon Town is in danger of being lost to history. Oneida Bungalow Court, a 24-home cluster built in 1925, was once a centerpiece of West Lewisville and a thriving Black working-class neighborhood. The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation recently named it one of the 11 most endangered historic sites in the state. Historic Oneida Bungalow Court, located in Jacksonville, has been named one of Florida's 11 historic endangered places. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Owner Spencer Fletcher a house painter who says he believes in preserving history estimates it would take at least $1.5 million to overhaul the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes asking the city to provide basic infrastructure upgrades, including sidewalks, curbs, stormwater drainage and street lighting. Historically, it was a freedmans neighborhood, set up for emancipated slaves in the 1870s, Fletcher said, adding that decades of neglect, rising insurance costs and dwindling rental income have pushed the court to a breaking point. Fletcher says he has repeatedly requested city help with infrastructure and explored funding options, but hasnt found a workable path. The answers I got from City Council were: its too expensive. Its not in the budget, he said. Council member Jimmy Peluso told Action News Jax that Fletcher did not accept an option the city offered. Peluso would not specify the option but said a revolving loan program is available and that he also offered something else, but it required rents to be at least 60% AMI. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fletcher said Oneida is one of only a few surviving bungalow courts of its era in Jacksonville and the last remaining cluster of historic homes tied to West Lewisville. The fears that without public support, the property could be sold and demolished. All eyes are on the stadium downtown and we have a cultural and historical landmark that Im attempting to save, Fletcher said. Hes started an online push to raise awareness and support. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] OZARK, Mo. As many students return to Ozark schools next week, the School District sends out a message to voters who approved the schools no-tax increase levy transfer of 20 cents at the Special Election on August 5. I want to thank our community for voting yes, they are always very supportive of our schools, said Superintendent Dr. Lori Wilson, What this does is it actually gives us the opportunity to continue to give raises in the future and for us to become or to be comparative with our local neighboring schools. The Ozark School Districts no-tax increase levy transfer passed with 68% of the vote, raising the tax levy to $3.38 per $100 of assessed valuation. Despite the increase, the overall tax levy will remain at $4.14. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tax levy transfer was also on the ballot in Pleasant Hope, but voters rejected the levy with 54% against it. With a statewide shortage of teachers and a decreasing interest in pursuing the profession, Wilson believes that the increase will allow for better retention of current staff as well as new hires. It is always a challenge to attract the best. And thats who we want in Ozark. But also, to keep them here, Dr. Wilson said. And with the passage of the tax levy, we were very blessed that it allows us once again, to potentially increase salaries next year so that we can keep them. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. By Kirsty Needham SYDNEY (Reuters) -The Pacific Islands bloc did not overturn a decision to exclude 21 donor countries, including the United States and China, from the region's top political meeting after a lengthy debate, officials said. Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers met in Fiji, holding "robust discussion" over the decision made by Solomon Islands as the host of next month's leaders meeting, Tonga's Foreign Minister, Crown Prince Tupoutoa Ulukalala, told reporters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will engage more closely with partners in the months to come," he added. Solomon Islands made the decision after pressure from China to block Taiwan's participation, Pacific officials and politicians said last week. "It is more important than ever that the region stands together and sets our own agenda rather than being pressured or even dictated to by external influences," New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters said in a statement on Thursday. China's ambassador to New Zealand, Wang Xiaolong, wrote on social media platform X on Thursday that Beijing was not to blame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "To suggest that we have worked to exclude ourselves for the dialogue in the Solomons this coming September just does not stack up," he wrote, adding that Taiwan "does not belong" at the meeting. "To try to put Taiwan on par with partners of the Forum such as China, US, and others is like comparing apples and orange. It is JUST wrong," he wrote. Taiwan said it has participated in forum meetings since 1993 as a development partner. Three Pacific Island countries hold diplomatic ties with Taiwan and not Beijing. The United States has said it is disappointed by the move and all partners should be able to attend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and has not renounced the use of force to bring he island under its control. Taiwan strongly objects to the sovereignty claims and says only the island's people can decide their future. (Reporting by Kirsty Needham in Sydney and Liz Lee in Beijing; Additional reporting by Lucy Craymer in Wellington and Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Kate Mayberry) By Asif Shahzad ISLAMABAD (Reuters) -Pakistan will create a new force in the military to supervise missile combat capabilities in a conventional conflict, apparently a move to match neighbouring arch-rival India. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force late Wednesday at a ceremony held in Islamabad to commemorate the conflict with India in May, the worst in decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ceremony was held a day ahead of Pakistan's 78th Independence Day. The force "will be equipped with modern technology," Sharif said in a statement from his office. "This force, capable of targeting the enemy from all sides, will prove to be yet another milestone with regard to further strengthening our conventional war capability," he said in a repeat broadcast of his speech on Thursday by local TV news channels. He did not give further details. A senior security official, however, said the force would have its own command in the military which would be dedicated to handling and deployment of missiles in the event of a conventional war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is obvious that it is meant for India," he said. In response to a question about the force, an Indian foreign ministry spokesperson said: "It is (a) well-known modus operandi of Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures." The two nuclear-armed nations have kept upgrading their military capabilities, fuelling a longstanding rivalry since their independence from British rule in 1947. Tension between the two countries soared in April over the killing of 26 civilians in Indian Kashmir, an attack New Delhi blamed on Islamabad. Pakistan denied involvement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conflict that erupted in May saw both sides using missiles, drones and fighter jets. The neighbours have fought two of their three wars since independence in 1947 over Kashmir, which they both rule in part but claim in full. (Reporting by Asif Shahzad; additional reporting by Shivam Patel in New Delhi; Editing by Michael Perry, Aidan Lewis) PESHAWAR, Pakistan (Reuters) -Militants in Pakistan's northwest carried out 13 overnight gun and grenade attacks on the police, killing six officers, officials said on Thursday. The attacks were against police stations, checkpoints and patrols across seven districts in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan, police officer Mohammad Ali Babakhel said, as the nation of 240 million people celebrated its 78th independence day. The militants used rocket-propelled grenade launchers in some of the attacks, he said, adding six officers were killed and another nine injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Out of 13, we inflicted losses on them, repulsed them and forced them to flee in nine, ten incidents," Provincial police chief Zulfiqar Hameed told reporters after attending funerals of the police officers in one of the districts. "We suffered losses in two incidents." He said the militants timed the attacks to coincide with the Independence Day celebration. A spike in the attacks in recent months is a tough challenge to handle for the overstretched and under-equipped police force, the frontline against militant attacks. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a Pakistani Islamist militant group with links to the Afghan Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TTP is an umbrella group of several Sunni Islamist groups. It has been fighting against the state since 2007 in a bid to overthrow the government and replace it with its version of Islamic law. Attacks have accelerated since the TTP revoked a ceasefire with the Pakistani government in late 2022. In 2024, Islamist militants carried out 335 countrywide attacks, killing 520 people, according to the Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, an independent organisation. Pakistan says the militants operate out of neighbouring Afghanistan, where they train fighters and plan attacks, a charge Kabul has denied. (Reporting by Mushtaq Ali; writing by Asif Shahzad; Editing by Saad Sayeed) BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) Palmer Moland, former president of the Fairfax School District Board of Trustees, was sentenced Thursday to time served and probation on two healthcare fraud-related cases. That sentence runs concurrent to what Moland received following his conviction on two voter fraud-related charges. In that case, he was sentenced to time served, probation and a three-year suspended sentence meaning hell go to prison for three years if he gets in trouble while on probation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to prosecutors, Moland began misrepresenting his health status in 2018 to become eligible for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, which overpaid $78,012.55 for services that included laundry, cleaning, meal preparation and assistance while showering, according to prosecutors. He received IHSS assistance for four years. Moland in June pleaded no contest to fraudulently receiving healthcare benefits and altering medical records, and unlawfully obtaining public aid in an amount exceeding $950. Bicyclist killed after collision on Olive Drive and Fruitvale Avenue In the voter fraud case, Moland was accused of using an address he didnt live at when filling out elections paperwork in 2018 and 2022 and running for governing board member of the Fairfax School District. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At trial, Deputy Public Defender Ajaib Gill argued Moland actually did live at the address he listed on paperwork for the 2018 election. He said Moland divided his time between that address and an apartment outside the district, but the one within the district was his home address. After the home sold in 2021, Moland looked for another residence within the district but couldnt find one. He was functionally homeless, Gill said. Moland contacted the elections division to try to have his name removed from the ballot after listing his old address, but it was too late, Gill said. Ballots had already been printed. Moland was found guilty of perjury and filing false candidacy papers in connection with the 2022 election, charges which Gill conceded. Not guilty verdicts were returned on the six remaining counts; two other charges were dismissed before trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News. BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) A Panama City Beach man received the maximum sentence of 15 years in prison on Tuesday for the death of 28-year-old Thomas Lyon. Lyon was celebrating his first anniversary with his family and his wife, Makenzie, in Panama City Beach on Aug. 2, 2024. Panama City Beach man re-arrested in fatal Front Beach Road accident The family was crossing the street on Front Beach Road when 39-year-old Casey Rattan came speeding down. Lyon pushed his children and nephew out of the way before being fatally hit by the car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Father tragically killed while saving children in Panama City Beach According to court documents, Rattan will have to serve a minimum of four years for second-degree murder, DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide. Rattans drivers license was revoked for life, and he was also ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) A local contractor accused of stealing from his customers may lose his license to build. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation filed an administrative complaint against David Blackerby. Blackerby owns Home Paradise Pools in Panama City. Dozens of people have accused Blackerby of taking their money and never completing the work. Others told stories of shoddy workmanship as well as damage to their property and their homes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In February, he was arrested on fourteen counts of misapplication of construction funds. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Besides the criminal charges, hes also facing civil lawsuits. The state is giving Blackerby until Sept. 8 to reply to the administrative complaint. Then, the construction industry licensing board will hold a hearing to determine if Blackerbys contractors license should be suspended or revoked. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The family of a 22-year-old probation officer, who was killed in the deadly floods that ravaged Kerr County, Texas, filed whats believed to be the first lawsuit since the disaster. Flash floods slammed Kerr County and its surrounding areas last month, claiming at least 135 lives. The regions along the Guadalupe River were hit particularly hard as heavy rain caused the body of water to rise 36 feet. Jayda Floyd, a 22-year-old from Odessa, Texas, died after floodwaters deluged a luxury RV park and campground along the Guadalupe River on July 4, the lawsuit states. Her parents, Christie and David Floyd, are suing campground owners and its general manager, seeking more than $1 million in damages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Floyd, her fiance Bailey Martin, and his family were staying at the HTR TX Hill Country Resort on the evening of July 3 into the following morning, when severe floods hit. The defendants were aware of the risk of "catastrophic flooding but didnt warn Floyd or Martin of this risk, the filing states. The lawsuit lays out the timeline of alerts sent by local and national officials, starting on July 2. The parents of Jayda Floyd, 22, have filed a lawsuit after the Texas floods took their daughter's life (Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers) The defendants were negligent for failing to establish proper storm and flood monitoring procedures, to safely and timely evacuate the property, and to warn guests of the risk of flooding, the suit claims. The defendants placed guests in a known floodplain with a history of dangerous flooding and installed structures on the campground that were not designed to withstand flooding conditions, the lawsuit alleges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flood waters scraped the structures from the HTR TX Hill Country Resort, leaving a barren wasteland, the lawsuit states, alongside a photo of the aftermath of the damage. At least 135 people were killed when flash floods tore through Kerr County and its surrounding areas last month (Getty Images) A spokesperson for HTR TX Hill Country Resort told The Independent in a statement: 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. 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 premise and will be prepared to vigorously defend ourselves in court, the statement read. A message on the resort's website reads: "Due to severe weather and flooding in the area, our campground is currently closed for the safety of our guests and staff." The regions along the Guadalupe River were hit particularly hard as heavy rain caused the body of water to rise 36 feet. (Getty Images) On the morning of July 4, Floyd helped Martins teenage step-siblings climb to the roof of the RV, saving their lives as floodwaters rose, lawyers for her family said in a press release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Floyd served as a juvenile probation officer in Ector County and was pursuing her masters degree in psychology at the University of Texas Permian Basin. The 22-year-old had dreamed of helping at-risk youth. She was someone who was going to make a difference in the lives of people, particularly kids, her father, David Floyd, said in a statement. The family is hoping for some accountability, the familys lawyers said. Photo shows how floodwaters transformed the resort into a 'barren wasteland', the lawsuit states (Glasheen, Valles & Inderman Injury Lawyers) Businesses operating campgrounds along the river have known about its flooding history for decades, Jon Clark, an attorney for the family, said in a statement. We will investigate what steps if any were taken to monitor conditions and warn guests of the danger they were in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas officials have faced scrutiny for their response to and warnings about the catastrophic floods. The National Weather Service sent out a string of flash flood warnings on the afternoon of July 3 before issuing flash flood emergencies in the wee hours of July 4, alerting locals that the weather posed a a severe threat. Last month, the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency defended his agencys response. I cant see anything we did wrong, David Richardson told a House panel. Meteorologists and local officials also supported the emergency response efforts. The forecasting was good. The warnings were good. Its always about getting people to receive the message, Chris Vagasky, a meteorologist based in Wisconsin, told NBC News in the days after the floods. Hong Kongs biggest landlords have begun to slash rents for their commercial tenants as retailers struggle amid the spreading coronavirus. Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd., the citys largest developer by market value, will reduce rents for February by 30% to as much as 50% for some of its mall tenants to help them ride out the impact from the disease, the company said in a statement Wednesday. Wharf Real Estate Investment Co. announced a similar move for its Harbour City shopping center, dropping this months rents by half, Apple Daily reported. Retailers in Hong Kong have been under immense pressure since last years anti-government protests, which oftentimes turned violent and brought the city to a halt. Retail sales slumped 19% in December, the 11th straight monthly decline, latest data from the government show. The increasing number of confirmed coronavirus cases is keeping most people off the streets, resulting in greatly reduced foot traffic. Mainland Chinese visitors, who used to come to Hong Kong to buy everything from luxury watches to discount cosmetics, plunged 53% in December from a year earlier. Thats set to fall even further after the government said it will start to quarantine people arriving from across the border. Other landlords including Swire Properties Ltd. and MTR Corp. said Wednesday they would continue to provide rental-relief measures that have been in place since last year. Shawna Kwan, Bloomberg Like this: Like Loading... Passengers have described the horror and panic after a train carriage burst into flames while travelling along the southwestern coast of Italy. An Italian passenger train travelling on the Naples-Sorrento line caught fire on Monday 21 July after an apparent air conditioning failure. The fire broke out at around 1.20pm near the Villa Regina station between Torre Annuziata and Pompeii, causing the train, which was carrying approximately 200 passengers, to come to a complete standstill for hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 15 passengers were injured, local reports state, with an investigation now underway by the local prosecutors office. A video on social media shows smoke billowing out of the top of one carriage, while flames also erupted. People can be seen standing on the side of the tracks with large suitcases, while others grab hold of fire extinguishers, trying to battle the fire. Jonny Glen, 35, was on the train with his partner and parents at the time, while in Italy on a weeks holiday heading to Sorrento from Napoli. He told The Independent that the entire ordeal was traumatic and said that help was very limited from police or crew throughout. He recalled how everyone was cramming onto this train, it was like coming back from a concert. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around half an hour into the train journey, Mr Glen said that the train came to a stop in the middle of the track before resuming its journey. Five minutes later, his father saw sparks coming out of the window. Mr Glen continued: We saw smoke coming down the ceiling. It sounded like fireworks. The roof started spitting out flames, and then something fell down from the roof of the carriage on fire, right through the ceiling, and missed my mum and my girlfriend by a matter of inches. It was later revealed that the flames ignited from the air conditioning motor on the roof of one carriage. The fire quickly spread and filled the inside with smoke. While his mother clawed his girlfriend towards her, Mr Glen and his dad could do nothing but watch as they were so crammed into the train and could not move from where they were standing. Flames and smoke could be seen on the roof of the carriage, which spread to the inside (Courtesy of Jonny Glen) As people started to move away from the fire, Mr Glen said he was crushed by other passengers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this point, we are maybe three or four feet away from the flames, and the smoke engulfs the carriage. As you imagine, everyone's panicking. We couldn't really breathe. The train continued for what felt like five minutes without stopping. Everyone's pressing emergency leavers, trying to smash windows. But there was no stopping the train. Mr Glen said that no smoke alarms were going off while the fumes filled the carriage. There were people screaming, saying, We're going to die. The place was packed with tourists as well as local commuters, and everyone was in hysterics, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eventually, one man started to smash the window of the train to let the smoke escape the carriage, after which the train then ground to a halt. Four of the passengers pried the doors open, allowing everyone inside to evacuate the carriage. Mr Glen said that not a single member of staff for EAV was in sight. While escaping the train, some passengers sustained injuries from the drop to the tracks, while others received burns from the flames, and some experienced issues from smoke inhalation. Passengers clambered off the train as the smoke continued to thicken (Courtesy of Jonny Glen) Around 15 passengers were injured, local reports state, with an investigation now underway by the local prosecutors office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the absence of staff, Mr Glen and others helped passengers disembark then retrieve their luggage, while two others tried to tackle the fire. He said that only after passengers had deboarded, one staff member came down the tracks to assist. The passengers were then instructed to walk in 34C heat to a station around 500m down the tracks, where they waited two and a half hours for police to arrive. Mr Glen said: So eventually water [for the passengers] came out. About two and a half hours later, the police were standing outside, and a guy from New Zealand, myself and one other guy just started handing out the water because the police were doing nothing. They weren't interested. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After boarding a minibus to another station, Mr Glen said he and the other passengers were told they could board another train to their final destination, Sorrento. Mr Glen described this as a slap in the face after what they had just experienced on another EAV train. We eventually had to pay 100 euros to get a taxi from whatever this train station was to Sorrento, he said. Mr Glen and his family are currently seeking compensation from EAV, but have yet to hear a response. The Torre Annunziata Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into the case and ordered the seizure of the two electric trains involved to determine the cause of the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement EAV, the company that operates the service, also established its own internal commission of inquiry. While EAV did not confirm that a fire broke out on the train, it did give service updates throughout the day to say that there had been a breakdown on the train, interrupting rail traffic, with replacement buses operating. By 6.20pm, the train operator said that services had been restored after technical problems had been resolved. The Independent has contacted EAV, the Carabinieri, the Torre Annunziata Police Station, and the Torre Annunziata Public Prosecutor's Office for comment. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast Liliana Calderon Ramirezs condominium single-storied, yellow and topped with a red-tiled roof bookended a row of nearly identical homes on Glenwood Drive in suburban West Palm Beach. Beyond the small memorial in front of her home on Aug. 13, there was little evidence of the murder investigators say occurred there two days earlier. Most parking spots in the neighborhood were empty. Ducks slept and squabbled on lawns, and a pink dollhouse sat at the foot of a neighborhood dumpster. No crime scene tape remained. Yet the 58-year-old Ramirez sustained fatal gunshot wounds here late on Aug. 11, and law-enforcement officers fatally shot the man suspected of killing her in the early hours of Aug. 12 along on Interstate 95 in St. Lucie County after he was accused of pointing a handgun at investigators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Boat captain who ignored faulty propeller warnings heading to prison for diver's drowning Authorities have not released the man's name, or described his relationship to Ramirez. A spokesperson for the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office referred questions regarding the man to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, which is leading the investigation into the events that led to the man's death. FDLE did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office reported that Ramirez was shot shortly before 10 p.m. in the home, off Military Trail and about 2 miles southwest of Palm Beach International Airport. She died at a hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators say the man suspected of killing her fled north on Interstate 95 before FHP troopers tried to stop his vehicle near Fort Pierce. The man then engaged in a lengthy standoff as a St. Lucie County sheriff's crisis team attempted to negotiate his surrender. A memorial appears outside the suburban West Palm Beach home of 58-year-old Liliana Calderon Ramirez, who investigators said was shot to death on Aug. 12, 2025. FHP, St. Lucie sheriff's deputies confronted armed man along I-95 In a news conference held Aug. 12 at the St, Lucie County Sheriff's Office, FHP Chief Matthew Williams, regional commander for the agency, said that just before 10:45 p.m. on Aug. 11, his agency received a "be on the lookout" or BOLO notice from the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office for a black Honda CRV driven by a person suspected in a homicide that evening near West Palm Beach. Just after 11 p.m., the vehicle was found traveling north just south of Gatlin Boulevard near Port St. Lucie, he said. St. Lucie County Sheriff Richard Del Toro said the stop happened just south of Orange Avenue near Fort Pierce. A short time later, through a coordinated effort with the St. Lucie and Martin County sheriff's offices, our FHP trooper and deputies attempted to stop the vehicle. Williams said. The driver of that vehicle made the decision not to stop and attempted to flee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troppers stopped the vehicle and saw the man with a firearm, Williams said. More: Two months after Father's Day fatal shooting, West Palm police arrest man on murder charge A host of law enforcement vehicles line the northbound lanes of Interstate 95, just south of Orange Avenue the morning of Aug. 12, 2025. All northbound lanes of the interstate had been closed between Midway Road and Orange Avenue, as law enforcement officials investigate a shooting, according to St. Lucie County and state officials. All lanes opened shortly after 10 a.m. The suspect exited the vehicle at that time with a gun pointed at his head, and that remained pretty much constant throughout the incident for the next couple of hours, Del Toro said. Del Toro said the man repeatedly reentered and exited the SUV as crisis negotiators attempted to speak to him. Just before 1:15 a.m., he got out of the vehicle and advanced toward deputies with a handgun, the sheriff said. SWAT officials used a 40 mm rubber impact weapon and struck the man multiple times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, this did not stop him, Del Toro said. He did drop the gun but immediately picked it back up and pointed it at our deputies, at which time they really had no other choice but to engage the suspect. Del Toro said four St. Lucie deputies fired their weapons, while Williams said three FHP troopers fired theirs. Two troopers used rifles, and one a handgun. In Palm Beach County, sheriff's investigators learned through interviews and supporting evidence that the man had entered Ramirez's residence through the rear sliding door, confronted her and fired multiple rounds before fleeing in the black SUV. The sheriff's office said it had probable cause to charge the man with first-degree murder. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Treasure Coast State Attorneys Office are investigating the incident in St. Lucie County. Del Toro said it ultimately will be brought before a grand jury, which is standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TCPalm staff writer Will Greenlee contributed to this report. Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: PBSO names woman killed in West Palm homicide linked to I-95 shootout South Koreas peace overtures are a pipe dream, the powerful sister of North Koreas Kim Jong-un has warned, in comments mocking Seoul for its recent attempts to ease hostilities. At the weekend, the South Korean military said it had spotted its neighbour dismantling some of its propaganda loudspeakers, which are dotted along the rivals shared border, just days after Seoul had removed its own. But on Thursday Kim Yo Jong, who is often seen as the public face of the regimes diplomatic messaging, said the analysis was an unfounded unilateral supposition and a red herring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In comments carried by the state-controlled Korean Central News Agency, Ms Kim added: We have never removed loudspeakers installed on the border area and are not willing to remove them. A firing test carried out by North Koreas army in July. Kim Jong-Un is reportedly focused on strengthening ties with Russia - KCNA/EPA/Shutterstock She also reiterated previous statements that Pyongyang has no intention of renewing long-stalled peace negotiations with Seoul or Washington, calling reports North Korea could engage in dialogue with the United States false suppositions. Analysts have suggested Mr Kim is more interested in boosting his alignment with Russia. Since resuming its loudspeaker programme in June 2024, Seoul had blasted K-pop alongside propaganda a move designed to irritate Pyongyang amid Mr Kims crackdown on South Korean cultural exports. For its part, the North often blares unsettling noises, such as howling animals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Seoul set its loudspeakers to silent after a new liberal government, which wants to improve frayed relations with Pyongyang, came into office in June. Last week, the military began removing its speakers from the border areas altogether. Yet, only two days after Lee Jae Myung, South Koreas president, described North Koreas reciprocal measure of dismantling some loudspeakers, Ms Kim poured cold water on hopes that relations were beginning to improve. She accused Seoul of building up the public opinion while embellishing their new policy towards Pyongyang, and suggested that adjustments made to the plan for annual joint military drills by South Korea and the US were a futile move that did not change overall intent. I am confident that Seouls policy towards the DPRK [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] remains unchanged and can never change, Ms Kim said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, North Korea denounced the 11-day joint drills, due to begin on Aug 18, as direct military provocation and warned of counteraction. On Thursday, the South Korean military stood by its assessment that the North was removing some loudspeakers and warned against being easily swayed by statements from Pyongyang. It has always been the case that North Korea often makes claims that arent true, said Lee Sung Joon, South Koreas joint chiefs of staff spokesman. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. (WHTM) State troopers are teaming up with PennDOT for traffic enforcement across north-central Pennsylvania, including in Mifflin and Juniata counties. PennDOT and the Pennsylvania State Police announced this week that Operation Yellow Jacket is coming to PennDOTs District 2. Pennsylvania State Police launch work zone driver safety initiative The initiative puts a state trooper in a PennDOT vehicle within a work zone who monitors for traffic infractions speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving, among others who will let a trooper in a cruiser know to pull a vehicle over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our goal is not to write tickets. Our goal is to prevent the violations that would warrant a ticket from happening in the first place, said PSP Troop G Public Information Officer Trooper Jake Rhymestine. Troop G includes Mifflin, Juniata, and Fulton counties. Those violations are what can cost people their lives. That is why we want the public to know that the State Police have a presence in work zones; to give them an extra incentive to slow down and use caution. It could save a life. The operation has been run within active PennDOT-staffed construction zones on interstates and other state highways. The initiative is aimed at reducing the number of work zone fatalities. Get traffic alerts from the abc27 mobile app for the latest local delays and road closures PennDOT says distracted and aggressive driving are leading factors in work zones crashes. They add that, in 2024, there were 1,250 work zone crashes, resulting in 22 fatalities and 785 injuries. Data shows that of the 22 work zone fatalities last year, 18 of those were members of the traveling public, and not highway workers. The initiative launched in PennDOT District 8, which covers most of the Midstate, earlier this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. (WHTM) More than 100,000 Pennsylvania college students could start the school year missing financial aid. The Pennsylvania State Grant Program, operated by PHEAA, provides $15 million in needs-based education grants each year. Its the seventh largest needs-based state grant program in the nation. But right now, months after students applied for the aid, the money isnt going anywhere. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania The PA General Assembly appropriates funds to PHEAA for the PA State Grant and other special programs, said Bethany Coleman, vice president of public relations, communications and marketing for PHEAA. Until the Governor signs the PA State Budget, final award determinations and disbursement for the 2025-26 PA State Grant Program are on hold. A state budget should have been on Gov. Josh Shapiros desk more than six weeks ago. Senate Republicans and House Democrats have each put forward proposals neither legislative body wants to consider the others plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both chambers are in recess until September, leaving negotiations at a stalemate. Pennsylvania Senate passes spending plan, budget remains at standstill Last year, students were eligible to receive grants as high as $5,750, depending on need, making for the largest award year in the programs history. Without knowing how much money it will get for grants, PHEAA cant send out any offers and schools wont be able to adjust bills. It may also have to put other programs it provides on hold. Some colleges and universities put a placeholder reflecting estimated grants, but Coleman encouraged students to discuss how the hold affects their financial aid package with their school or postsecondary institution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. ALLENTOWN, Pa. (WHTM) Hundreds of new military dump trucks will be built right here in the Keystone State. Mack Defense announced this week they have been awarded a five-year, up to $221.8 million contract to build up to 450 more heavy duty dump trucks for the U.S. Army. The contract, the company says, was awarded in June and adds to ongoing production of the trucks, which resemble standard Mack Granite tri-axle dump trucks. They have heavier-duty rear axles, all-wheel drive, increased ride height, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In March, they celebrated the production of the 500th truck on a contract initially awarded in 2018. This contract represents continued confidence in our ability to deliver mission-critical vehicles to the U.S. Army, said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. This new contract award is a testament to the commitment of our team, which includes our supplier partners, as well as to the robust capabilities of this heavy tactical vehicle platform. Download the abc27 News+ app on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV devices The trucks are built at the Mack Experience Center in Allentown, Lehigh County on a production line launched in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. The video above is from previous coverage dated July 22, 2025. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) After a transformer caught fire at Pepcos 22nd substation in D.C. back in July, outages persisted for days around Dupont Circle. Power was eventually restored, but the damage required extensive repairs. On Wednesday, Pepco sent out an update that repairs were finished. This included permanent repairs to all damaged feeders. The substation has returned to normal operations after crews replaced 6,100 feet of underground cable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Dupont Circle neighborhood experiences repeated power outages as high temperatures persist Eight cable splices were completed to join the feeders together. As a result of the repairs, crews were able to power up a new transformer that can support more demand. We appreciate our customers patience as our crews worked around the clock to complete these repairs, wrote Pepco in a 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Two companies, PepsiCo and Cargill, are teaming up to transform the way key crops like corn and soy are grown in the Midwest region of the United States. With the new initiative, which spans 2,600 square miles, the companies aim to implement regenerative agricultural practices to help improve soil health, reduce carbon pollution, and strengthen farmer livelihoods. According to a press release from PepsiCo, the plan is projected to support regenerative farming practices across more than 1.2 million acres in Iowa, Illinois, and surrounding states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PepsiCo and Cargill partnership builds on prior efforts, with a renewed focus on soil conservation, crop rotation, and the adoption of cover crops. The goal is to reduce harmful gas pollution while helping U.S. farmers build long-term resilience. "This partnership is about delivering practical, measurable results starting on the farm, where the food system begins," said Pilar Cruz, chief sustainability officer at Cargill. "By coming together across the value chain, we can help create the conditions for regenerative agriculture to take root and grow. The collaboration offers a model for how we can drive meaningful impact at scale." Agriculture is one of the biggest contributors to global planet-warming gas pollution and one of the most vulnerable to its effects. While conventional practices can deplete the soil, use excess water, and use chemicals, regenerative techniques can help trap carbon in the soil, promote biodiversity, and improve food system stability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This massive shift could create ripple effects for other food industry giants, signaling that large-scale sustainable sourcing is not only possible, but it's already happening. By advancing regenerative agriculture, farmers can potentially future-proof their land and ensure more resilient ingredient sourcing for popular food and beverage products. For consumers, it could lead to more sustainable food options and decrease negative environmental impact in the supply chain. More broadly, everyday people can help support efforts like these by taking local climate action, whether that means supporting regenerative food brands, advocating for sustainable land use policies, or helping educate others about how climate and agriculture intersect. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Building better food systems starts with both institutional and individual change, and sustainable habits today can help the environment of tomorrow. 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. SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) After over three years of construction, and at a cost of $60 million, the Perdue Premium Meat Company held a ribbon-cutting celebration in front of its new facility in Sioux City. The 225,000-square-foot facility began production about two months ago. The facility employs a total of 300 people, of whom 100 are new. Well be adding an additional 100 jobs here to the great state of Iowa, said Senior Vice President of Pork Operations at Perdue, Gary Malenke. Were excited about it. Theres a lot of great things happening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking from the podium, Sioux City Mayor Bob Scott expressed his gratitude to Perdue for choosing Sioux City for this project. Story continues below I just want to thank the Perdue folks for their investment in our community, said Scott. We understand food processing in this community, we dont shy away from that, we welcome these types of investments. So, thank you for employing the type of people that you do and making Sioux City better as a result of this project. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The building was a former military base used during the Cold War, but it was vacant for several decades. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Peruvian President Dina Boluarte on Wednesday signed into law an amnesty bill shielding security forces from prosecution for crimes committed during the political violence and guerrilla warfare that rocked Peru between 1980 and 2000. "With this historic amnesty, Peru honours its defenders and rejects any interference, internal or external," Boluarte said as she signed the controversial bill, which Peru's Congress had passed in July. "We can't allow for history to be distorted, for perpetrators to pose as victims, for the true defenders of the country to be branded as enemies of the state," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill applies to members of the armed forces, national police, and self-defence committees who have not received a final sentence in cases related to "the fight against terrorism between 1980 and 2000." It doesn't apply to those already convicted, nor to individuals accused of terrorism or public corruption charges - unless they are 70 years old or older. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights had ordered the Peruvian government to suspend the measure pending a review of its impact on victims. Rights groups Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch (HRW) criticized the measure, saying it betrays the victims of the conflict and undermines efforts to bring accountability for atrocities committed in the period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between 1980 and 2000, almost 70,000 people died in clashes between Shining Path guerrillas and state security forces. More than 20,000 also disappeared during that period, according to the Peruvian truth commission. "This law is quite simply a betrayal of Peruvian victims," said HRW's Americas director Juanita Goebertus. "It undermines decades of efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities and weakens the country's rule of law even further." When Peru's Congress approved the bill on the first vote, Amnesty International said it would impact more than 150 cases with a final sentence whose perpetrators would be released, and would end hundreds of other cases under investigation and trial. "Thousands of families have been seeking justice, truth and reparation for decades," said Amnesty International Peru's executive director Marina Navarro at the time. "To close the wounds of the internal armed conflict, it is essential that all victims have access to their rights." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement UN human rights experts had also criticized the bill in July, saying it would put the Peruvian government "in clear breach of its obligations under international law." "Peru has a duty to investigate, prosecute and punish gross human rights violations and crimes under international law committed during the conflict," the UN experts said. "International standards prohibit amnesties or pardons for such grave crimes." Japanese warships docked in New Zealand s capital last weekend for a rare visit amid efforts by Tokyo to deepen its strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean. Two destroyers with more than 500 crew on board sailed into Wellington harbor accompanied by the New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury. The JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami were on an Indo-Pacific deployment and arrived from Sydney, where Japans military took part this month in war games involving New Zealand, Australia and other countries. The Wellington visit was a ceremonial one, but it came as Japan, whose only treaty ally is the United States, has increasingly sought to deepen bilateral military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions. Our defense force are developing cooperative work, not only with New Zealand and Australia but also many Pacific Island countries, Japans envoy to Wellington, Makoto Osawa, told reporters Friday. Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific. The ambassadors remarks followed the announcement Tuesday by Australias government that Japanese firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries had won the bid for a contract to build Australian warships, beating out a German firm. While officials in Canberra said the Japanese proposal was the best and cheapest, they also hailed it as the biggest defense industry agreement between the countries. New Zealand too has sought to shore up its strategic and military relations in Asia as part of a foreign policy reset in recent years that the government says has turned more attention on Pacific cooperation and security. Officials in Wellington announced in July that work had started on a defense logistics agreement with Japan, intended to make it easier for the countries militaries to work together. Japanese naval vessels do not often make visits so far south in the Pacific Ocean, but the rich and strategically important waters of New Zealand, Australia and smaller Pacific Island countries are increasingly contested by the worlds major powers, making it the site of a fierce battle for influence between Beijing and Western nations. A Japanese ship visited New Zealands largest city, Auckland, in 2016. Although remote, New Zealand has recently been drawn into more fraught questions of regional security. In February, live firing exercises by Chinese naval frigates in the Tasman Sea between New Zealand and Australia drew alarm from those countries governments after flights were forced to divert at short notice. MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... Peruvian President Dina Boluarte signed into law Wednesday a bill granting amnesty to police officers, military personnel and members of civilian self-defense committees who took part in counterterrorism activities during the countrys bloody 20-year fight against leftist guerilla groups. The amnesty will cover members of the security forces who stand accused of abuses during that period, but not apply to those who have already been convicted or are accused of terrorism or public corruption charges. Between 1980 and 2000, Perus security forces were engaged in fighting with rebel groups including the Shining Path and the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement that killed an estimated 69,000 people, according to the Peruvian truth commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to those killed, many people were disappeared. The amnesty has been opposed by some human rights groups, who argue it undermines efforts to bring accountability for atrocities committed during that time. Some legislators opposed the laws passage in Congress. The amnesty will also apply to those over the age of 70 who are already in prison unless they have been convicted on terrorism or public corruption charges. At present, more than 1,000 people are being prosecuted or investigated for their participation in the fight against terrorism, according to the official newspaper El Peruano. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the signing ceremony, Boluarte said the new law would benefit those who defended the country from terrorist groups. Let this amnesty be a message of peace, not division. Its time to turn the page and close that nefarious and bloody chapter that terrorism represented, the president said. Justice Minister Enrique Alcantara defended the new law and rejected the idea that it promotes impunity. This law seeks justice and is based on the principles enshrined in our Peruvian Constitution and the Inter-American Convention on Human Rights itself: Everyone has the right to have their legal situation resolved within a reasonable time, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Human Rights Watch said the new law was a betrayal of the victims of abuses. (The law) undermines decades of efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities and weakens the countrys rule of law even further, said Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch. CNNs Michael Rios contributed to this story For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Peruvian President Dina Boluarte signed a law pardoning hundreds of military and police officers for alleged abuses during the countrys fight against a Maoist militia. The law, approved by Congress, pardoned those who fought the Shining Path declared a terrorist organization by the US which threatened to destabilize the Peruvian government until former President Alberto Fujimori unleashed a vicious fight against it. Almost 70,000 people are believed to have died in the conflict between the 1980s and 2000s. Although critics said the new law would ensure thousands of innocents will never see justice, Boluarte hopes the move may boost her approval ratings, which sit at just 2% with presidential elections due next year. A judge on Wednesday ordered that former Peruvian president Martin Vizcarra be held in pre-trial detention in connection with allegations of corruption. Judge Jorge Chavez Tamariz ordered five months of pre-trial detention for Vizcarra with immediate effect in relation to allegations he took some 2.3 million soles (about $640,000) in bribes during his time as governor of the Moquegua region from 2011 to 2014. Prosecutors are seeking a sentence of 15 years. Vizcarra denies the charges and claims they are a form of political persecution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vizcarra, who became president in 2018, was removed from office in a vote of no confidence in Congress in 2020 over allegations he took bribes. He had butted heads with parliament many times during his tenure, accusing lawmakers of seeking to impede his anti-corruption drive. In Peru, nearly all heads of state from the past 25 years have faced legal issues. Investigations into corruption are ongoing against Vizcarra predecessor Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-18), and a criminal trial is under way of former president Pedro Castillo (2021-22) for an attempted coup. In April, former president Ollanta Humala (2011-16) was sentenced to 15 years in prison for money laundering. In October, former president Alejandro Toledo (2001-06) was sentenced to 20 years and six months in prison for corruption. Former president Alan Garcia (1985-90 and 2006-11) took his own life in 2019 when police attempted to arrest him on corruption charges. As a pink-collar profession a nickname given to women-dominated occupations teaching has historically paid less than comparable fields requiring a higher education degree, and in Philadelphia, the push to close the wage gap could lead to a strike by the end of the month. Salaries for Philly teachers roughly 70 percent of whom are women begin at $54,146. Thats far below the median earnings of Pennsylvania college graduates. Now, concern over pay has become a sticking point between the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers (PFT) and the School District of Philadelphia as they negotiate a new contract, with the current collective bargaining agreement expiring August 31. The PFT in June voted to authorize its executive board to initiate a strike if the union and the district dont agree on a new contract by then. With the deadline imminent and no deal in sight, schools may open on August 25 only for teachers to appear on picket lines within days. A strike could leave working parents in a lurch, scrambling for childcare a task moms usually have to complete. Many Philly teachers, however, are also parents and demanding higher salaries to better provide for their families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PFT President Arthur Steinberg pointed out that even suburban teachers with less education often out-earn Philadelphias top-performing educators by up to $22,000. We would like to close that gap as much as we can with this next contract, he recently told the Philadelphia Tribune. Amid ongoing negotiations, Steinberg appeared with School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Tony Watlington at a welcome event for new teachers on Wednesday. We are optimistic about a successful conclusion by the end-of-the-month deadline, and its important to us that all of our employees feel seen, valued and heard, said Watlington, who called Steinberg a tough negotiator. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To reach an agreement, Steinberg said, Theres significant work that has to be done, but its doable. Still, union members are prepping for a strike, making protest slogans at the new teacher orientation. A strike would be the first in Philadelphia since 1981, when teachers walked out for 50 days. Our schools are not safe, theyre not healthy for anybody to work in or go to school in, chemistry teacher Kate Sundeen told local news station ABC 6. We have a hard time with teacher retention and a hard time attracting new talent. Philadelphia teachers complained to The 19th in 2023 about working in century-old buildings that swelter in early fall heat. Before then, the PFT expressed concerns to The 19th that the district was not taking robust action to prevent exposing teachers to COVID-19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The PFT represents nearly 14,000 teachers, counselors, school nurses, librarians and other educators. Just under 200,000 students attend the School District of Philadelphia, which has garnered nationwide attention since the hit workplace comedy Abbott Elementary set in Philly debuted in 2021. In recent years, a number of large urban school districts have gone on strike. They include classified workers in Los Angeles Unified School District in March 2023, teachers in Seattle Public Schools in September 2022 and classified workers and teachers in Minneapolis Public Schools in March 2022. On Friday, the national bus tour of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) will arrive in West Philadelphia to support the PFT ahead of a possible strike. The event will be the last of six strike preparation events that have taken place before the teachers head back to work on Monday, a week before the first day of school. The post Philadelphias pink-collar teacher workforce fights for pay equity before school begins appeared first on The 19th. News that represents you, in your inbox every weekday. Subscribe to our free, daily newsletter. The Brief The mother of 15-year-old Kyelonna Smiley is seeking answers after her daughter was found shot to death in a Phoenix apartment on Aug. 4. The suspect, 67-year-old Nohe Prado Morelia, took his own life four days later. The Phoenix Police Department says the case is closed. PHOENIX - An Arizona mother wants answers before laying her teenage daughter to rest. What we know Fifteen-year-old Kyelonna Smiley was found shot to death in a west Phoenix apartment on Aug. 4. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her mother, Fiyonna Austin, said she didn't find out from police until two days later. Days after that, police say the suspect took his own life. "I am very, very sad and heartbroken," Austin said. "She was very outgoing, outspoken. She was a very good person." When her daughter didn't come home that night, she panicked. "I was super worried about her wellbeing because anything can happen within a split second," Austin said. On Aug. 6, her worst nightmare came true. "They told me that she was shot in the head and that she was found at the senior citizens apartment complex," Austin said. "There are no words that I can say except for the fact that the person who took my baby away shattered my world." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Phoenix Police say the person responsible for Smiley's murder is 67-year-old Nohe Prado Morelia, who took his life at a business near 24th and Van Buren streets four days after Smiley was shot to death. "I am mad as to why he took my baby and now finding out that he committed suicide, I'm mad," Austin said. Kyelonna Smiley Austin says she doesn't know who Morelia is and has never met him before. She also doesn't know why her daughter was at that apartment. "I think it's because he's the person that rents out that place. That's what they believe," Austin said. Austin wishes she could turn back time to when her daughter was alive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm trying to hold my composure here. It's hard, very heartbreaking and I feel incomplete now that a piece of me is missing," she said. Police say the case is now closed. Click to open this PDF in a new window. What you can do A GoFundMe has been set up for funeral expenses and can be found by clicking here. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to civilians and veterans. Support in Spanish is also available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . The Brief New Phoenix Police Chief Matt Giordano held a news conference on Aug. 13. The new chief addressed the issue of immigration enforcement during the news conference. "We don't ask for your immigration status," Giordano said. PHOENIX - The City of Phoenix has its first permanent police chief since 2022, and on Aug. 13, Matt Giordano appeared at a news conference to answer various questions. Big picture view Among the questions Chief Giordano addressed were increasing officer recruiting and engaging the community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Giordano also addressed a topic that is on the mind of many residents in Phoenix: immigration enforcement. His answer was rather straightforward. "We don't ask for your immigration status. We quite frankly don't care about your immigration status," Giordano said. The backstory This comes as immigration activists claim the Phoenix Police Department is working with the Department of Homeland Security and assisting ICE agents as they conduct immigration enforcement. In May, the ACLU of Arizona got wind that Phoenix Police officers told immigration advocates they couldnt be outside of the immigration court in Downtown Phoenix, because it was private property. They later learned that ICE agents were arresting immigrants near that location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition, there have been reports that Phoenix PD will help with traffic and street closures during ICE raids. We have not been able to independently confirm such claims. The ACLU is reportedly submitting a public records request to show any communications between Phoenix PD and DHS. What Giordano Said Chief Giordano said he was in the state in 2010, at a time when SB1070, which gave police officers the right to stop and ask people for proof of citizenship, was in legal effect as a state law. He said he saw the distress it caused. The police chief also said he is currently in the process of meeting with the local ICE director. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are aware, from time to time, of ICE operations that are going on because we want to make sure that if we get 911 calls, we know what's going on," said Giordano. "But we do not help them." The other side "Phoenix PD should be focusing on actual policing and protecting the community, and if you're wasting resources because ICE wants to raid a Home Depot, that's not you doing your job," said Vets Forward Executive Director Ricardo Reyes. "I hope that this chief will actually follow the wishes of the Phoenix City Council, the wishes of the community as a whole, that Phoenix PD should be concentrating on protecting people, and not helping ICE in any way." What Giordano Also Said Another concern from watchdogs and the media is transparency. Giordano said it will be a priority, and that people should treat the department like an open book. In Russia, the iconic Volga River, which is the country's largest waterway for shipping, has experienced a huge drop in water levels brought on by the warming climate. Higher levels of pollution, mass fish die-offs, lower drinking water quality, and disruptions at hydroelectric facilities are just some of the expected impacts. What's happening? According to the independent Russian news outlet Meduza, the Volga has had a rough year so far, with water levels dropping dramatically in the spring. Experts say that a combination of warmer winters, reduced snowfall, and dam construction along the river has impeded water flow. Aside from the concern that low water levels could disrupt agriculture, drinking water, electricity, and shipping along the river, there are also worries about pollution since unregulated wastewater and dirty runoff from factories often flows into the Volga, and stagnant, low water can make it worse. Fertilizers and pesticides from farms may trigger algal blooms, which reduce oxygen levels in water and threaten fish populations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shrinking river has already prompted cruise companies to take detours, and several hydroelectric stations had to suspend operations since the 2025 spring inflow hit record lows. As for the impacts on fish, scientists have observed more mass die-offs over the past few years, and several important species, such as sturgeon, are seeing major declines. "Most fish species simply won't spawn [in 2025]," Alexander Tsvetkov, a researcher at the Papanin Institute for the Biology of Inland Waters, told the outlet. "That means we'll lose the 2025 generation." On behalf of the independent newspaper Bereg, photographer Misha Volzhsky captured images of the river and shared them with Meduza. The photos show exposed riverbanks, water level marks on intake structures that reveal just how much the river has receded, and wastewater discharge in coastal regions. Why does the receding river matter? Seeing as the Volga is a major artery for shipping, prolonged drought and little rainfall could have long-term impacts on the ability of ships to deliver goods. Farmers and those in the shipping industry could also lose income if the water levels don't return to normal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pollution and receding water affect other water bodies connected to the Volga as well. For example, the Gorky, Ivankovo, Rybinsk, and Uglich reservoirs all have documented copper and iron pollution from industrial wastewater flowing from the river. A federal initiative called the "Volga Recovery" project was launched in 2024 to build new wastewater treatment stations and upgrade some of the older ones. However, despite millions being spent on the project, it was never completed. The pollution is worse when water levels are low, which seems to be a frequent occurrence as the planet warms. Because the river connects to many other tributaries that farmers and industries rely on, authorities sometimes have to pump water from the Volga to other parts of the ecosystem, which only exacerbates the water issues along the river. According to Meduza, "The shallowing of the Volga will affect nearly every second person in Russia. The river flows through 15 regions, carries more than half of the country's river cargo, and sustains a basin home to 60 million people." 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. What's being done to help? To allow some of the fish populations to rebound, officials have placed a moratorium on fishing for certain species through the end of the year. As for the dangers to agriculture and drinking water due to low water levels, hydrologists have suggested using reservoirs for these purposes rather than hydroelectricity, as energy needs can be met in other ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ultimately, the fate of the river is uncertain, but erratic weather patterns are a large part of the problem and aren't likely to change anytime soon. However, we can all help in that regard by switching to energy-efficient appliances and reducing our energy use, which benefits the planet by lowering heat-trapping pollution. As the clean energy transition accelerates, it should help the Volga and other rivers stabilize. 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. CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) Champaigns high schools welcomed students back on Wednesday with celebrations that combined creativity and community. At Centennial High School, the day started with its annual clap-in. Its a tradition where staff, parents and community members line the halls to greet students with cheers and applause. Dick Butkus legacy lives on in Champaign through unique partnership Later in the evening, Central High School unveiled a new mural. The You Belong mural was designed to promote inclusivity and a strong sense of belonging among students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Enaam Al Majdoub uses water collected from a distribution point to bathe her 3-year-old granddaughter, Jourieh, while her son Zaki uses some of the water for cooking in their family tent in Gaza City on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) ASSOCIATED PRESS WAILUKU, Hawaii (KHON2) Prison life can a be a difficult journey to take for anyone. But there are methods state officials are taking to enrich the lives of those incarcerated as a means of making the overall community a better place. Five inmates at Maui Community Correctional Center graduated Wednesday, Aug. 13, with General Education Development diplomas. The ceremony marked the second GED graduation held at MCCC. The first took place in October 2024 with two graduates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students must pass four subjects reading and language arts, math, science and social studies each with a minimum score of 145. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation partners with the Hawaii Department of Educations McKinley Community School for Adults at the Moanalua campus to offer the program. Vice Principal Kurt Ginoza presented the diplomas. One of the five graduates was released before the ceremony and did not attend. Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Director Tommy Johnson thanked MCCC Warden Liane Endo and the education team for their work. We are proud of all graduates for their accomplishments. This reflects the inmates commitment to transform their lives, Johnson said. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Deputy Director Sanna Munoz congratulated the graduates. Some will return to the community in the coming weeks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was amazing to see their pride in this accomplishment and to learn that some of the graduates are interested in pursuing degrees in areas such as Hawaiian language, cybersecurity and culinary arts, Munoz said. Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations GED graduates in Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo/Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations GED graduates in Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo/Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitations GED graduates in Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. (Photo/Hawaii Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation) Warden Endo commended their effort. All of you have worked so hard and made that important investment in yourselves that will pay itself back many times forward, Endo said. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 Today, we celebrate not just a diploma, but determination and resilience, Roseanne Propato, Corrections Education Program Manager, added. Our graduates have shown that they have the courage to rise, to learn and to believe in a better future which is an inspiration to us all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung will meet Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba in Tokyo next week before flying to Washington for a summit with President Donald Trump, underscoring how Trumps push to reset global trade is drawing the often-feuding neighbors closer. Lees two-day visit to Japan Aug. 2324 will be an opportunity to deepen personal ties with Ishiba and put bilateral relations on firmer ground. Their talks will center on strengthening trilateral cooperation with Washington, promoting regional peace and stability, and addressing other international issues, presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said yesterday. Their meeting will come weeks after South Korea and Japan secured trade deals with Washington that shielded their trade-dependent economies from Trumps highest tariffs. The separate agreements negotiated their rates of reciprocal duties down to 15% from the originally proposed 25%, but only after pledging hundreds of billions of dollars in U.S. investments. Japans Foreign Ministry said it hopes Lees visit will promote the stable development of bilateral ties as their countries work together on international challenges. It said the two governments plan to maintain close communication, including utilizing the shuttle diplomacy of regular leadership summits used in the past. After meeting Ishiba, Lee will travel to Washington for an Aug. 25 summit with Trump, which his office said will focus on trade and defense cooperation. Relations between the two U.S. allies often have been strained in recent years over grievances stemming from Japans brutal colonization of the Korean Peninsula before the end of World War II. Lee and Ishiba previously met on the sidelines of the June G7 meetings in Canada, where they called for building a future-oriented relationship and agreed to cooperate closely on various issues including trade and countering North Koreas nuclear and missile programs. Lees meeting with Ishiba is clearly intended as preparation for the tougher challenge of the summit with Trump, who has unsettled allies and partners with tariff hikes and demands to reduce reliance on the U.S. while paying more for their defense. Lee could seek tips from Ishiba, who already has met Trump, and their governments may feel an urgent need to cooperate and respond jointly to challenges posed by Washington, said Park Won Gon, a professor at Seouls Ewha University. The setup also may help revive the trilateral summits initiated under former President Joe Biden, which would make more sense than dealing with Trump separately, Park said, noting South Korea and Japan share strategic interests. They are the only countries that have signed special measures agreements on sharing defense costs with the United States, Park said. Both depend on U.S. extended deterrence to cope with North Korean threats. With U.S. forces stationed both in South Korea and Japan, they are partners who need to be ready to respond to crisis situations, like one in the Taiwan Strait. Some 80,000 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea and Japan to combat possible North Korean provocations and deal with regional challenges including those posed by China. Ties between Seoul and Tokyo were rocky during Trumps first term, marked by a trade dispute and clashes over wartime history. Washington largely took a hands-off approach as its two allies aired their feud in public. The standoff eased as the Biden administration pressured the countries to repair ties, aiming to strengthen their trilateral security cooperation against North Korean threats and counter Chinas growing influence. Bidens push was supported by South Koreas previous conservative president, Yoon Suk Yeol, who took significant steps to improve ties with Tokyo, including a major compromise on compensation issues related to Korean victims of Japanese wartime slavery that sparked backlash at home. But Yoons presidency was cut short by his brief imposition of martial law in December, which led to his ouster and imprisonment, leaving uncertainty over Seoul-Tokyo relations under Lee, who has long accused Japan of clinging to its imperialist past and hindering cooperation. Since taking office in June after winning the early presidential election, Lee has avoided thorny remarks about Japan, instead promoting pragmatism in foreign policy and pledging to strengthen Seouls alliance with Washington and trilateral cooperation with Tokyo. There also have been calls in South Korea to boost collaboration with Japan in responding to Trumps policies. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) Pickeringtons police chief said a school board member who was charged with tampering should have been charged with felonies. Chief Tod Cheney released a statement on Facebook regarding the investigation into Vanessa Niekamp, 55, who is a member of the Pickerington Schools Board of Education. The charge was related to her role as executive director of the Pickerington Food Pantry. Police said there is no reason to believe anything illegal happened tied to her elected roles with the Pickerington Schools Board of Education and Violet Township. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mistrial declared for former Franklin County sheriffs deputy charged with sex crimes Niekamp reached a plea deal with a special prosecutor to face a charge of tampering with records, which is a first-degree misdemeanor, something Cheney said he disagrees with. Felony charges related to forgery, theft by deception, and tampering were recommended by our agency, and I believe the felony indictments would have been made by a grand jury had the case been presented, Cheney said. We fully support the victimand agree with his belief that felony level charges should have been pursued based on the evidence. Cheney said the investigation spanned two years and explained why the investigative process can take so long. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the surface that seems like a long time, but there are several reasons why this case took so long, Cheney said. He noted that white collar crimes generally take longer to investigate. Columbus suburb ranks among Realtor.coms top 10 hottest ZIP codes in America There were thousands of pages of financial statements to comb through, and when companies are subpoenaed, they have 30 days to respond, which he said can add up. About a year into the investigation, the Fairfield County Prosecutor recommended a special prosecutor for the case, and it was assigned to Delaware County Prosecutor Melissa Schiffel, Cheney said. That required everything to be reviewed again by the new prosecutor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cheney directed all questions about the decision to the Delaware County Prosecutors 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 NBC4 WCMH-TV. An American pilot who was arrested upon landing in Chilean Antarctica over 40 days ago says he has still not been allowed to fly out even after his case was suspended. Ethan Guo was trying to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents and raise money for cancer research when he was accused of illegally landing in a Chilean territory in Antarctica. While attempting to fly from Chile to Ushuaia, Argentina, in late June, Guo told ABC News in an interview on Wednesday that he lost radio transmission and his plane experienced engine failure, so he diverted to Antarctica and landed on a remote island off the coast. Salvatore Di Nolfi/Keystone via AP - PHOTO: American pilot Ethan Guo poses for the photographer in Geneva, Switzerland, Aug. 6, 2024, before his take off from Geneva Airport for attempting a world record solo flight to all seven continents. Guo's attorney said the pilot received "explicit, direct permission" to land at a Chilean base. But upon landing, Guo was arrested and charged with providing false flight information, according to Chilean officials, who said he did not have a permit and "violated international regulations regarding the Antarctica continent." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Chilean court suspended his case this week and ordered him to donate $30,000 to a local charity. The donation is part of the stipulation for his charges being dropped, Guo confirmed. He is also prohibited from re-entering Chilean territory for three years, Chilean officials said. MORE: Body of Antarctic researcher found 66 years after he disappeared exploring glacier Guo said he is "grateful" and "relieved" for the charges to be dropped, maintaining that he did nothing wrong, although he wishes the case could have been resolved sooner. Guo said he has lost weight throughout this ordeal and feels like a "prisoner" on the base. He said that despite being free to go, Chilean officials "won't let me leave." ABC News - PHOTO: Ethan Guo speaks with ABC News, Aug. 13, 2025. His attorney said that "despite his exoneration, the Chilean government has not allowed him to fly his airworthy plane off the base." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guo said he has heard varying reasons for why he cant leave, including that the plane is not fit to fly, does not have enough fuel, he doesn't have the proper skills and the weather is too poor. "All four of those statements are objectively false," he said. "I have all the paperwork. I have insurance that even covers Antarctica. The plane has enough fuel, the plane is working. And I am a qualified pilot." MORE: How rescuers braved extreme cold, 'challenging' conditions in marathon 20-hour Antarctic evacuation Guo said leaving by boat could be an option, but he said they are infrequent, and there haven't been any since he's been on the base. He also said he wants to be able to fly back to continue his fundraising journey. The pilot embarked on his fundraising mission last year at the age of 19, attempting to raise up to $1 million for research into childhood cancer. "I want to be able to continue to fight against cancer and continue the mission," he said. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Evacuation levels for the Pine Fire, which sparked Wednesday afternoon in Crook County, were lowered after crews made progress containing the blaze overnight. According to the Crook County Sheriffs Office, crews worked through the night to hold a perimeter around the fire, and now they are working to fully contain it. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KOIN Breaking News Alerts Due to the progress made overnight, officials said the Level 3 evacuation orders around the fire are now lowered to Level 2, which still means people should be ready to evacuate at a moments notice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials are warning people to avoid the area of the fire while crews, including helicopters and engines, work to quash the fire. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) The Pitt Community College is getting ready to welcome students back to school with their first day of classes on Friday, and with another year of growth in student enrollment, the college is earning some recognition. WalletHub ranks Pitt Community College as the 6th best community college out of 51 in N.C. and as the highest rated community college across the Eastern N.C. region. Its really living the dream of the founder of the North Carolina Community College system, Dallas Herring, he says he is designing a system to carry students from where they are to where they want to go, said Dr. Maria Pharr, president of Pitt Community College. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The college is hosting an open enrollment day on Thursday, August 14th, before the first day of class on Friday. They say it is the perfect time for someone who wants to change their life to take that next step. Were also ranked #1 in the state for our English language acquisition program; we have an 82.5% of what we call measurable gain, which means our students are highly successful in that program, but were also #1 in the state for welding, said Dr. Pharr. The enrollment for welding is overflowing to the point where the county is donating $16.4 million out of the total $17.7 million cost for their brand new welding facility they are building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The growing enrollment showcases that PCC is constantly evolving to meet the students with their interests. This is why were here, one college every student every day, Dr. Pharr said. The college is also working with the city of Greenville housing project to bring homes that are built right on PCCs campus to lots that the city owns to help with housing for those in need. Our direct to workforce programming, we have hired an amazing person dr. stacy gerard, this is an opportunity for programs that are short term but direct to workforce, our law enforcement, ems, public safety, fire, cosmotology and all of those short term work force development programs that will get individuals into the college at low cost and get them right into the workforce, Dr. Pharr. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT. Aug. 14WILKES-BARRE A Pittston man received a reduction of time in state prison when he was resentenced Thursday for possessing child sexual abuse materials. The Pennsylvania Superior Court in February ordered a new hearing for Paul Andrew Schell, 39, formerly of Stark Street, as the appellate court determined an error was made by a former assistant district attorney when calculating the length of time he must register as a sexual offender under the state's Sexual Offender Registration and Notification Act. Here's a breakdown of Schell's case: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * June 9, 2022: Schell was arrested by detectives with the district attorney's office who investigated several Cyber tips traced to his residence. * Nov. 14, 2022: Under terms of a plea agreement, Schell pled guilty to 75 counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials and 24 counts of dissemination of photo or film of children involved in sex acts. Plea agreement involved Schell to register his address for 15 years as a sex offender. * Feb. 23, 2023: Judge Joseph F. Sklarosky sentenced Schell to three-to-six years in state prison, 10 years probation, and ordered Schell to register his address for 15 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * March 3, 2023: An assistant district attorney filed a petition to amend Schell's sentence to include 25 year registration. * March 8, 2023: Sklarosky denied the petition by the assistant district attorney to modify Schell's sentence. * April 6, 2023: Sklarosky vacated his March 8, 2023, order, and granted the petition that required Schell to register for 25 years. * March 8, 2024: Schell filed an appeal with the Pennsylvania Superior Court claiming the plea agreement did not involve a 25 year registration but 15 year registration. * Feb. 25, 2025: A three-member panel of the Pennsylvania Superior Court in a 13-page opinion vacated Schell's sentence and ordered a new hearing, allowing Schell, represented by Attorney Leonard M. Gryskewicz Jr., to either enter a new plea agreement or opt for a trial. The appellate court noted a conviction of possessing child sexual abuse materials which falls under the sexual abuse of children statute calls for 25 year registration. Due to the error in the Nov. 14, 2022, plea agreement for Schell to register for 15 years, the negotiated plea agreement must stand, the appellate court ruled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * May 22, 2025: Schell pled guilty to 75 counts of possessing child sexual abuse materials in a new plea agreement. Prosecutors withdraw 24 counts of dissemination of of photo or film of children involved in sex acts. Plea agreement honored the 15 year registration. * Aug. 14, 2025: Sklarosky re-sentences Schell to 18 months-to-five years in prison, followed by seven years probation, and imposed the 15 year registration. Schell given 1,162 days credit of time served. During Thursday's sentencing hearing, Assistant District Attorney Carly Levandowski acknowledged the error by the former assistant district attorney. Overland Parks former dBronx space is being taken over by another pizza shop: PaPPos Pizzeria & Pub. Kansas City-based dBronx closed its Overland Park spot in March, marking the end of a longstanding restaurant that once had multiple locations. Difficult decision: Price Chopper store closing in Overland Park Now, the 4,959-square-foot space will house Sunrise Beach-based PaPPos, which also has a location in Lees Summit. The estimated build-out is $917,415 and includes appliances, a bar and an outdoor patio, according to city filings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more about PaPPos beginnings and growth, and about a local spas expansion in Overland Park in the Kansas City Business Journal. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 Brief Pleasantville School District in New Jersey is contemplating changes to start times for students. The proposed schedule adjustments have stirred concerns among parents, who are worried about the impact on their daily routines and the lack of finalized plans. PLEASANTVILLE, N.J. - As the new school year approaches, the Pleasantville School District in New Jersey is contemplating changes to start times for students, aiming to provide a more productive learning environment. What we know The district's proposal suggests high school students begin their day at 8 a.m., middle school students at 8:30 a.m., and elementary students at 9 a.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This shift aims to enhance student engagement and punctuality, according to Dr. Marilyn Martinez, the school district superintendent. "It would really support our high school students in perhaps attending school on time and giving an opportunity to attend classes in a way that engages them more productively," said the superintendent. The other side Parents voiced their concerns at a recent school board meeting, with one parent highlighting the logistical challenges. "Did you take into account parents have to be at work in the morning?" Another parent expressed frustration over the potential financial impact, saying, "I could drop them off at 8:50, hit the expressway, and make it to work by 9:06 every morning so I'm not late and docked 15 minutes because I need every dollar to pay my bills." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some parents are also worried about the schedule's effect on younger children, particularly regarding meal times. "They're starting at 9 o'clock, they're getting lunch at 2 o'clock. That is five hours you are trying to cram in their brain. Their feeding them at 2 o'clock. They're getting picked up at four. That is insane to me," one parent remarked. What's next The district plans to implement a three-tier transportation system with five additional buses to alleviate traffic congestion. "We do have opportunities for parents who may need to drop off their student, their child a little bit earlier," Superintendent Martinez reassured parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite these efforts, some parents remain concerned about the lack of a finalized plan, as they need to make necessary arrangements. Superintendent Martinez is meeting with the school board Thursday and hopes to share the new schedule with families as soon as possible. As the community awaits a decision, the debate over the proposed changes continues. The Brief A man from Plymouth is facing embezzlement charges after law enforcement said he stole more than $1 million from a real estate business. Investigators say he worked for Ellis Properties in Minneapolis from 2010 to 2024 until the fraud was discovered. Court records show the man was previously convicted of a similar crime in 2008 and ordered to pay more than $2 million in restitution. PLYMOUTH, Minn. (FOX 9) - Federal charges have been filed against a man from Plymouth who is accused of embezzling more than $1 million from a Minneapolis real estate company he used to work for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christopher Erik Septon, 52, of Plymouth, is charged with four counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Plymouth man charged with embezzlement Big picture view The indictment states that Septon worked for Ellis Properties from 2010 to 2024, when his fraudulent activity was discovered. Law enforcement officials say Septon's role was to pay vendors, contractors and other third parties with company funds. He then used this position to embezzle from the company, charging more than $800,000 on the company credit card and "directing the payments to his own payment-processing accounts," charges say. Septon is also accused of using reimbursement checks to fraudulently claim business expenses he paid personally. This was allegedly done by using fake invoices, fake emails, and other deceptive means. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The indictment also states Septon used names of state and city agencies to falsely claim Ellis Properties owed payments to them and directed hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments to himself instead. Court records show Septon was previously convicted of a similar crime in 2008 and ordered to pay more than $2 million in restitution. What they're saying "Fraudsters never stop inventing new ways to steal, and Septons crime posing as government agencies in his scheme to embezzle more than a million dollars was no exception," said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. "The fraudsters of Minnesota should understand this: No matter how clever the con, we are coming for you, and you will face federal justice." The Source This story uses information shared in a news release from the United States Department of Justice. WARSAW, Poland In a bid to modernize the countrys combat aircraft fleet, the Polish Ministry of National Defense has signed a deal with the United States to upgrade its 48 F-16 C/D Block 52+ fighter jets to the F-16V standard. The contract, which is to be performed by Lockheed Martin as the prime contractor in cooperation with Polands defense industry, has a net value of around $3.8 billion. The aircrafts midlife upgrade is to be predominantly implemented at Military Aviation Works No. 2, a plant operated by Polands state-run defense group PGZ. Under the plan, the overhauled fighter jets are to return to service in the years 2030 to 2038, the ministry said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than 20 years ago, our predecessor selected an aircraft to replace the post-Soviet gear that we had in the Polish Air Force. We chose the F-16, Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, Polands deputy prime minister and national defense minister, said at the official signing ceremony on Aug. 13. For the next 20 years, F-16s protected Polands skies, participated in foreign missions, including in air policing over the Baltic States, and were deployed wherever our allies needed them. At the same time, the current capabilities of the Polish F-16 fleet are insufficient to address the threats that the country is facing, Kosiniak-Kamysz said in reference to the ongoing Russian invasion of neighboring Ukraine. We need to enhance [the aircrafts] reconnaissance capabilities, communications, integration with the F-35s, Abrams and Apaches, as well as their ability to operate in any domain, according to the minister. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since Russias February 2022 attack against Ukraine, Poland has placed a number of major military gear orders with U.S. companies, including last Augusts purchase of 96 Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters under a deal worth around $10 billion, and the April 2022 contract to acquire 250 M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tanks for some $4.75 billion, among others. With the countrys defense spending expected to reach an estimated 4.7 percent of its gross domestic product this year, Warsaw has allocated a record-high budget of PLN 186.6 billion (USD $51.3 billion) to the military in 2025. Tomasz Smura, the program director and management board member at the Warsaw-based Casimir Pulaski Foundation, told Defense News that, for more than three decades, maintaining close relations with the United States was a permanent trait of Polands foreign policy under all governments. At the same time, alongside the development of the Polish defense industrys capacities, local officials are increasingly interested in transfers of technology and know-how to the countrys plants, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Based in Bydgoszcz, in Polands western region, Military Aviation Works No. 2 services various aircraft operated by the Polish Air Force. These include the F-16s, Hercules C-130s and also some of the nations remaining Soviet-designed military aircraft and helicopters. The company will also accommodate a servicing center for the FA-50 light attack aircraft Poland purchased from South Koreas Korea Aerospace Industries. As part of the program to modernize Polands F-16 fleet, each fighter jet will be fitted with a new AN/APG-83 active electronically scanned array (AESA) scalable agile beam radars (SABR), an advanced mission computer and an AN/APX-126/127 advanced identification friend or foe (AIFF) system, among others, according to the Armament Agency, the ministrys procurement arm. Poland is to also secure AGM-158 joint air-to-surface standoff missile (JASSM) flight test vehicles and other equipment supporting the aircrafts enhanced combat capacities, as per the October 2024 announcement of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The latest development comes as the Polish ministry is mulling plans to further expand the Air Forces modern combat aircraft capacities, which are currently ensured by F-16s and FA-50s, and will be bolstered by the 32 F-35A Lightning II fighters the country ordered in 2020. The first F-35s are expected to be delivered to Poland in 2026, making the country the fighters first user in Eastern Europe, with the Czech Republic and Romania slated to follow suit. Meanwhile, Warsaw is currently analyzing whether to order an additional two squadrons of fighter jets for the nations armed forces. The available options include buying 32 more F-35s, or alternatively opting for one of the two air superiority aircraft: the Eurofighter Typhoon, a jet manufactured by a consortium of Airbus, BAE Systems and Leonardo, and Boeings F-15EX fighter, as indicated by Polish military officials. Editor's note: This story has been updated with a Polish police statement and a statement by Ukraine's Embassy in Poland. Poland's Internal Security Agency (ABW) has arrested a 17-year-old Ukrainian citizen accused of subversive activities on orders from foreign intelligence services, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's office said on Aug. 13. "This is not the first time that Russia has recruited Ukrainians and Belarusians to commit such acts in Poland," Tusk's office said in a post on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak, the teenager vandalized monuments of victims of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) and defaced buildings with anti-Polish slogans on behalf of foreign powers. "These actions were intended to incite tensions between Poles and Ukrainians," Siemoniak said on X. Separately, the Polish police said that two 17-year-old Ukrainians were arrested for placing UPA flags and extremist slogans on buildings and monuments to UPA victims. The police made no mention of the involvement of foreign intelligence services. The incidents occurred in Wroclaw, Warsaw, and Domostawa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Embassy in Poland condemned the actions, calling them "shameful." "We regard this as a provocation by the Russian special services aimed at creating tension between our peoples," the statement read. "Ukraine consistently advocates respect for historical memory both its own and that of its neighbors." The Embassy added that it also awaits a response from Polish law enforcement agencies regarding acts of vandalism committed earlier against Ukrainian memorial sites in Poland. Tusk has previously warned against Moscow's attempts to sow discord between Kyiv and Warsaw, even as historical grievances play an increasingly prominent role in Polish-Ukrainian relations. Earlier this week, Polish authorities ordered dozens of Ukrainian citizens to be expelled after the Aug. 9 riots at a concert of Belarusian rapper Max Korzh. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one of the most controversial moments of the riots, an attendee was seen waving a black-and-red flag associated with the UPA, a World War II-era guerrilla organization remembered in Poland primarily for its role in the 1943-1944 Volyn massacres. KI Insights Visit KI Insights to learn more and subscribe to the insider weekly newsletter visit ki insights Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has warned that Russian intelligence services are actively attempting to recruit Ukrainians particularly those from Russian-occupied territories for illegal operations across the European Union. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HUR said the Kremlin offers money to vulnerable individuals to conduct surveillance and sabotage critical infrastructure, calling it "yet another tool of hybrid aggression" against Ukraine and Europe. Polish authorities have intensified their crackdown on suspected Russian intelligence activity following a number of sabotage incidents, some involving minors. Several suspected spy networks, allegedly run by Minsk and Moscow, have been uncovered in Poland over the past years. In May, two Ukrainians were charged in connection with Russian-backed arson attacks on an IKEA store in Vilnius and a shopping mall in Warsaw. In June, a 28-year-old Polish man was arrested on charges of spying for Russia, allegedly gathering sensitive defense-related information in Poland and abroad. The same month, Poland closed Russia's consulate in Krakow after accusing Moscow of orchestrating a massive 2024 fire that destroyed the Marywilska shopping center in Warsaw. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ABW also accused a 27-year-old Colombian national last month of carrying out two arson attacks in Polish cities on behalf of Russian intelligence. Western officials have warned of an escalating Russian sabotage campaign targeting countries supporting Ukraine. Read also: Russias hybrid empire Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. After over 16 years, Macaus Road Traffic Law was finally proposed to be revised after a public consultation held in 2019 and the introduction of a new demerit point system in 2023. However, the bill faced further changes following this years government transition, leading lawmaker Ron Lam to warn that it may be scrapped due to unclear legislative logic. After several years of discussions and reaching the Legislative Assembly (AL) term deadline, the AL announced a final meeting to discuss further details yesterday. Still, it remains uncertain whether the meeting will approve or, most likely, will acknowledge the scrapping of all the legislative work. In an exclusive interview with the Times, Lam said he wants to understand why the bill is potentially to be abandoned. He noted that throughout his participation in multiple meetings, he realized the governments intentions regarding the traffic law revisions were unclear. According to the ALs rules of procedure, a plenary session to vote on a bills detailed provisions must be notified at least two days in advance. If the AL decides not to extend the term, there will be insufficient time to convene a session to address the matter. Speaking to the Times yesterday at his office, Lam acknowledged that the law, in effect since 2007, encompasses several important regulations, including technical road traffic rules and provisions for three major bridges. The laws content is extensive, involving numerous legal provisions and having a significant societal impact. Based on his experience in the review process, he emphasized that this laws technical complexity and social implications require thorough examination. Deeply involved in the review process, Lam recalled that in 2019 the government conducted a consultation proposing increased fines, which sparked public protests. Since then, he noted that progress has been slow, with the revised draft not resubmitted until 2023. During this period, the draft underwent discussions involving as many as eight or nine working documents, highlighting the complexity and importance of this issue. The recent revisions to the traffic law have undergone multiple changes over the years. Lam admitted, The government seems to lack a clear legislative logic. While introducing a demerit point system to strengthen penalties and improve regulations, it has simultaneously retained criminal penalties for minor violations, an aspect he described as confusing. Citing an example from the design of the demerit point system, he noted that the government initially arbitrarily listed 17 symbols to indicate behaviors that would result in point deductions. However, penalties for minor violations are only imposed if the same offense is repeated, potentially leading to license suspension. Regarding the governments insistence on retaining provisions for minor violations, he pointed out, Retaining both is unreasonable and lacks a clear logical basis. The lawmaker pointed out that the confusing requirements hinder the publics understanding of their rights and responsibilities. For example, the ban on pedestrians using mobile phones while crossing streets contradicts fundamental safety principles and may not actually improve safety. Furthermore, the inconsistencies in regulations for heavy vehicles and electric wheelchairs reflect a lack of coherent reasoning in the legislation. Overall, Lam underscores the necessity for clearer and more logical regulations that prioritize public safety and are easily understood by the public. In light of the numerous issues surrounding the current revision of such law, Lam stated that the new draft law is not sufficiently mature and should not be passed. He believes the government must take a clear and comprehensive approach to rethink the entire legal framework. Notably, the relevant legislation was reviewed by the First Standing Committee of the AL, resulting in significant changes. The original demerit point system has been abolished and replaced by a new traffic violation point system. Under this system, drivers start with 0 points, and accumulating 18 points or more will result in the revocation of the drivers license. Violations are categorized into three levels: criminal offenses, such as drunk driving and dangerous driving, incur four to five points; minor violations, including severe speeding and running red lights, result in two to three points; while administrative violations carry one point. Additionally, the new bill proposes prohibiting pedestrians from operating or viewing mobile phones or other telecommunication devices while crossing the road. Penalties will remain consistent with current law, specifically a fine of MOP300. Lam emphasized the need for the government to reassess and integrate public opinions, establishing a clear direction to advance the effective revision of the traffic law. This law involves multiple revisions, each representing a legal article, covering the repeal of three to forty regulations and integrating new content. Such confusion indicates that the government is not adequately prepared for this revision. To make the traffic law effective, the government needs a coherent logic and a comprehensive plan, he asserted. Given the bills complexity and volume, which have taken five to six years since the last consultation to reach this stage, Lam noted that societal changes have not been adequately reflected in the law. He suggested that if the bill is to be resubmitted, a comprehensive public consultation is essential to ensure it addresses the latest societal needs, as this issue is closely tied to peoples livelihoods. While Lam acknowledged that the new government has adopted a relatively open attitude toward this bill and is willing to listen to opinions, he pointed out that there is still a lack of a clear strategy for improving the law. Due to time constraints, the new text has not been thoroughly discussed. He emphasized that simply revising the law will not adequately meet societys evolving legal demands, which is already a significant challenge. From the current situation, I have not seen the governments efforts in this regard, particularly in the first session, where there is a lack of clear direction. The recent seven-person car accident has ignited public debate over Macaus traffic law, prompting many to question whether current penalties are too lenient, leading to a disregard for violations. Lam noted that while penalties and enforcement have improved, the severity should match public concern. Acknowledging the demand for harsher penalties, he emphasized that this should be a last resort. Instead, he stressed the importance of traffic safety education and awareness campaigns, especially for young drivers, to ensure they understand the seriousness of their actions. Like this: Like Loading... (KRON) A 30-year-old San Rafael woman triggered an aerial search and caused a neighborhood to shelter-in-place Tuesday night. Police identified the woman as Antoinae Tajzahnique Austin. The incident began at 5:30 p.m. when Austin allegedly stabbed a victim inside a housing facility on Kerner Boulevard where Austin lives, the San Rafael Police Department said. A 911 caller at the facility reported that Austin had stabbed another resident in the stomach, SRPD said. Police said Austin was arguing with the resident before she pulled out a knife and attacked. Austin fled from the area before police arrived, and the victim was rushed to a hospital, SRPD said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over on San Pablo Avenue, at 6:50 p.m., SRPD received another emergency call of a female suspect who approached another person and made criminal threats to harm them while holding a knife. While officers responded to that scene, it was reported that Austin fled into the open space. Police issued a shelter-in-place order for San Pablo Avenue residents. SRPD officers, the Marin County Sheriffs Office Drone Team, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter unit searched the open space for any sign of Austin. At 7:50 p.m., and as the search was occurring, SRPD received a call that Austin returned to the living facility on Kerner Boulevard, the police department wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officers returned back Kerner Boulevard and found Austin had barricaded herself inside a bathroom at the living facility, according to SRPD. Six people, including teen, detained by ICE after raid in Oakland home Austin refused to come out, and the San Rafael and Novato Regional Crisis Negotiation Team worked for 40 minutes to get Austin to surrender peacefully. Austin refused to surrender, and officers forced entry into the bathroom, where they took her into custody, the police department wrote. Austin was booked into the Marin County Jail for felony assault with a deadly weapon, brandishing of a knife, and resisting arrest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Parents in one New Jersey township could face fines or jail time if their children cause a "public disturbance," according to a new ordinance that went into effect last month. The Gloucester Township Council adopted the measure on July 28, following a series of incidents that included a major disruption at last year's township festival. "We've gotten overwhelming support from our community," Gloucester Township Police Chief David Harkins told ABC News in an exclusive interview. "People recognize the need for parental responsibility." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The ordinance came after the township's annual community day in June 2024, which Harkins said "got ruined by unruly juveniles who were being dropped off from out of the area by rideshares." Attendees were awaiting a drone light show at a local park just before 9 p.m. when some 500 young people began causing disruptions, according to Philadelphia ABC affiliate station WPVI. The disruption continued for two hours and escalated to the point that officers were called in from surrounding town to assist, according to WPVI, which noted that police arrested 12 people, including 10 juveniles between ages 13 and 17. ABC News - PHOTO: Chief David J. Harkins said hundreds of unsupervised teens sparked change in local laws. Officers were "being spit on, cursed at, assaulted," Harkins told ABC News. "I've never experienced anything like it in 30 years as a police officer the disrespect, the violent behavior that ruined a family event." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident led officials to cancel this year's Gloucester Township Day. MORE: 1 boy killed, 2 hurt in stabbing outside their high school; 2 classmates arrested The ordinance specifies that parents of a minor who's found guilty of a first offense may be "ordered to provide supervision of the minor." A second offense could result in the minor's parent or legal guardian facing a fine of up to $2,000, a jail sentence of up to 90 days, or both. When asked about concerns from critics who say jailing parents under the new ordinance could potentially separate them from their other children, Harkins emphasized that punishment isn't the primary goal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're not looking to put anybody in jail," he said. "This is about warning parents and due process." Police will provide an information sheet and warnings to parents whose children are taken into custody, Harkins said. The department also offers support services, he said, including a full-time social worker and parenting classes, to assist parents who may have difficulty parenting an unruly child. "We understand being a parent is a tough job," Harkins said. "We're committed to giving help to those that need it." No parents have been charged since the ordinance took effect, according to Harkins. He said the ultimate goal was to prevent youth from entering the juvenile justice system by ensuring parents stay involved in their children's activities. "Many times interviewing the parents, they had no idea who their kids were with or what they were doing," Harkins said. "That's got to change." NEED TO KNOW Police in Massachusetts responded to a popular beach on Wednesday, Aug. 12, following a report of an unattended death A large portion of the beach was then taped off as authorities investigated However, no body was found and police later revealed what the item they found actually was Part of a popular beach in Massachusetts was briefly closed off due to a reported death, but police were soon confronted with a surprise they didn't see coming. Massachusetts State Police (MSP) responded to Revere Beach on the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 12, for what was described at the time as an investigation into a possible "unattended death," according to NBC affiliate WBTS and ABC affiliate WCVB-TV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf A large portion of the beach was then taped off as authorities investigated. A diver was also seen in the water, according to WCVB. However, police later announced that there hadn't been any death and that what had been reported as a possible body was actually a "large blanket" that had been rolled up. There has been no body of any type recovered, police said, according to WCVB-TV and FOX affiliate WFXT. It is unclear how the blanket wound up on the beach or who the blanket may have belonged to. 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. When reached for comment by PEOPLE on Thursday, Aug. 14, police said there was "no new information" to share. Police referred further questions to the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office, which did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment. Read the original article on People KANSAS CITY, Mo. After a multi-day search, a Mobile, Alabama, man is in custody and facing charges of murder in connection with a deadly shooting and crash on Highway 210 in North Kansas City on Monday. On Tuesday, an arrest warrant was issued for Ray Von McCall Jr. He was subsequently charged in Clay County with second-degree murder, aiding or abetting a person discharging or shooting a firearm at/from a motor vehicle and two counts of armed criminal action. Woman charged with murder after husband found shot inside Clinton home Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police have been searching for McCall since he disappeared on Monday after the shooting. Now, after receiving help from the Mobile Police Department, the Metro Squad, and other assisting law enforcement agencies, the search is over, and McCall is in custody and awaiting extradition to Missouri. This case is an example of how quickly and efficiently the Metro Squad, outside agencies, and prosecutors can work together to deliver results that protect our communities, said Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson. According to court documents, just before 3 p.m. on Monday, North Kansas City police officers responded to a reported injury crash at I-35 and 210 Highway. When officers arrived, they confirmed there had been a shooting and reported finding a victim, later identified as 33-year-old Deandre Ferguson. He died shortly after arriving at North Kansas City Health. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Detectives recovered six 9mm shell casings at the scene and found the victims phone inside his car, according to court documents. Court documents also say cameras show the suspects car driving from the Econo Lodge area to the parking lot on the west side of the Subway, located on Taney Street. A short time later, the victims car arrived, and it appeared the two men had some type of talk while remaining in their cars. The victim then left the Subway parking lot and drove to a gas station. As the victim was leaving the gas station, the suspect pulled slightly in front of the victims car, blocking his path, court documents say. While blocked, cameras captured the suspect holding a firearm and shooting at the victim from inside his car. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Court documents say the victim then attempted to leave the scene and drove onto the median, struck a traffic sign, and then crashed into the I-35 overpass supports. At the same time, the suspects car was then seen going south on I-35. Download the FOX4 News app on iPhone and Android A warrant was issued for McCalls arrest following the incident, and before Thursday, he had not been seen since Tuesday morning in Tupelo, Mississippi, court records say. Prosecutors have requested that his bond be set at $2 million, cash only. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Police responded to a fatal shooting in Southeast Oklahoma City Thursday morning. Officials say officers responded to the area of SE 21st St. and Central Ave. just before 8 a.m. regarding a shooting. Fatal shooting in SE Oklahoma City. Image KFOR. Fatal shooting in SE Oklahoma City. Image KFOR. It is unclear what led to the incident, but police say one person has died and another has been injured. No arrests have been made as the investigation 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 KFOR.com Oklahoma City. An earlier than usual harvest has led to an increase in reports of hare coursing in north-east Scotland, say police. The illegal activity involves dogs chasing, catching and killing hares on open farmland. It is most commonly reported after crops have been cut in late summer and before spring, as short vegetation leaves hares with fewer opportunities to hide. Police Scotland said: "This year's warm summer and early harvest have led to increased reports of hare coursing in recent weeks. Members of the public are being urged to report any suspicious activity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said hare coursing was cruel and frequently linked to other crimes such as theft, damage and intimidation. They said the activity was a cause of concern for landowners, farmers and rural communities. Police Scotland said: "Hare coursing is primarily a seasonal issue affecting rural communities across our force area. "It is most common from late summer when the crops are cut through to spring when crops are not grown enough to provide hares with sufficient cover. "This year, due to an early harvest, we have seen an increase in reports of hare coursing." Dog ban In February, a man whose dog attacked and injured a deer became the first person in Scotland to be convicted and sentenced under new hunting legislation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nickolas Chenier, 56, was using his golden lurcher for hare coursing when it went after the deer near a cemetery in Wick. Members of the public tried to protect the severely injured deer, before Chenier appeared and killed the animal with a knife. He was prosecuted under the Hunting With Dogs Act (Scotland) Act, which came into force in 2023, and fined 750 and banned from owning a dog for five years. Chenier pleaded guilty at Wick Sheriff Court. More on this story Related internet links Search warrants have been executed at at least two homes in Riverside County as part of an ongoing investigation into the disappearance of a Tennessee man with ties to a religious organization in Southern California. Last week, detectives from the Redlands Police Department searched a home on the 26000 block of Pleasant Street in Hemet known to be affiliated with the religious group, His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. The search was in connection with the disappearance of Emilio Salem Ghanem, a Nashville man who was reported missing on May 25, 2023, not long after he left the group after two decades. Emilio Salem Ghanem, a Nashville resident, was reported missing on May 25, 2023, after he visited a Starbucks coffee shop on Redlands Boulevard in Redlands. (Redlands Police Department) Emilio Ghanem was last seen in May 2023 in Southern Californias Inland Empire. (Family photo) Emilio Ghanem (Family photo) During that search, detectives recovered relevant evidence in the ongoing case, according to the Police Department. Four people inside the home were detained and later released, police said, but two were eventually taken into custody on unrelated charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Days later, on Tuesday, Redlands police detectives, with assistance from the Sheriffs Department and the FBI, served another warrant at a property in Riverside County, this one in Anza, located about an hour southeast of Hemet. The search warrant was executed around 5 a.m. at a home on the 57000 block of Forestry Road. Eight people inside that home were briefly detained and then released without arrest. The Anza property is also known to be connected with His Way Spirit Led Assemblies, police said. Evidence was also recovered from that home. No additional information was released about these warrants, and the investigation remains ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ghanem was reported missing in 2023 after he stopped at a Starbucks coffee shop located at 625 East Redlands Blvd. His rented Nissan Frontier pickup truck was seen on surveillance footage later that day in nearby Grand Terrace and was later recovered earlier this month alongside personal items and potential evidence in the case. Ghanem was both a member of the Hemet-based religious group as well as an employee of a business it owned and operated. The business, a pest control company which operates under the name Maxguard, was previously called Fullshield, Inc., police said. The rented Nissan Frontier pickup truck that Emilio Salem Ghanem was last seen driving in was recovered, police announced on Aug. 1, 2025. (Redlands Police Department) Ghanem was 40 years old at the time of his disappearance. He is described as a white man with hazel eyes and black hair who stands 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs around 130 pounds. Information about his disappearance can be submitted to the Redlands Police Department by email or by calling 909-551-4424. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ghanem is at least the second person associated with the religious group who was reported missing in recent years. The Redlands Police Department says it is collaborating with detectives from the Claremont Police Department who are investigating the disappearance of 49-year-old Ruben Moreno in August 2019. Like Ghanem, Moreno was affiliated with His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. Moreno lived with several other members of the religious group at a property it previously occupied. Moreno was last seen alive in December 2017 at a home on the 3900 block of Swarthmore Court in Claremont. The home, according to investigators, was a place where members of the group regularly gathered. Ruben Moreno, 49, was reported missing in August 2019. Detectives said he was affiliated with His Way Spirit Led Assemblies, a religious organization at the time. (Claremont Police Department) Ruben is described as a Hispanic man who is 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 180 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with information about Morenos disappearance is urged to contact the Claremont Police Department at 909-399-5411. Tips can be submitted anonymously. Despite the similarities in their disappearances and their shared connection with the religious group, investigators have not said if the cases are directly related. At this time, the only known similarity between the two cases are the individuals ties to His Way Spirit Led Assemblies. The cases are being investigated separately by their respective agencies, Claremont police officials said earlier this 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 KTLA. Can you ID these two theft suspects? [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The Miami Township Police Department is searching for two women accused of stealing over $600 worth of merchandise from a local department store. They posted the suspects photos on social media. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident happened on August 8. If you can ID them, you can contact Officer Spencer at (937) 433-2301, extension 1460. You can also email Officer Spencer at mspencer@miamitownship.com. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] One-two. one-two. Senior dancers lined up in white shirts and black pants, swaying to classic polka music at Pioneer Hall at the Iowa State Fair. The first song, "Harvest Time Schottische," instantly drew out folks from the crowd. Getting on their feet and finding the beat, families joined hands as they danced to a local Des Moines band, the New Jolly Germans. The Polka Club of Iowa, started in 1975 by Duane Pichelman, celebrates 50 years in 2025 at the official celebration took place Thursday, Aug. 14 at the fair. The first meeting of the club was in Pichelman's own home near Ankeny on April 18, 1975. Now, the club maintains two chapters central Iowa and Davenport and over 300 members. The Polka Club of Iowa: Then and now There was a time when the club boasted five chapters and over 1,000 members, according to their website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Polka Club of Iowa's first dance was hosted on a snowy January night in 1975 at the Vittoria Lodge, just south of Ankeny. Pichelman's band performed, along with the band Malek's Fisherman. More: Need fair info? The Iowa State Fair 2025 daily guide is your source "Bob Malek had to travel through the storm to get there," Pichelman wrote online. "He got behind a snow plow, arrived a little late, and got a standing ovation when he came through the door. In spite of the weather, we had a full house." Betty Humke and Rex Humke dance with the Polka Club of Iowa during the eighth day of the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 14, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. The Iowa Polka Music Hall of fame was formed in 1982, and was first located at the Bavarian Haus Restautant in Des Moines, now known as Hessen Haus. Now you can find the Hall of Fame at Duncan Community Hall in Duncan, Iowa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1988, the first Iowa Polka Festival was hosted in Marshalltown. Around then, most folks in the club we around 25 to 35 years old, said Tim Westemeyer, state president of the club. Celebrating polka at the Iowa State Fair The house isn't quite as full these days, but a group of over 10 dancers, most of them over the age of 65, showed up and showed out at the State Fair, dancing for over an hour to 20 classic polka and waltz songs. Now, most members are at least 60, some even 80 or older. Westemeyer said there are people who have been members for over half their lives, and most of the members lost are those who have died. That's not stopping active members, though, as both chapters still meet and dance monthly, sometimes even more often in central Iowa. If you're interested in joining the Polka Club of Iowa or just attending a dance, find more information online at polkaclubofiowa.dance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The crowd and club alike cheered, whistled and hugged as Westemeyer closed out the event, encouraging folks who had danced with them to officially join. The state president said he's proud of the club and its members and is excited for its future. Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at vreynarodriguez@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Polka Club of Iowa celebrates 50 years, dances at 2025 Iowa State Fair (The Center Square) Roy Cooper leads Michael Whatley 47.3%-39.1% in the newest poll of North Carolina voters selecting a U.S. senator in 2026. Sampled Monday and Tuesday with results released on Thursday 446 days from Election Day, the 600 likely voters responses were given a 95% confidence level and a margin of error of +/= 3.98%. The poll was produced by Carolina Journal in conjunction with Harper Polling. In a most telling statistic on the question never heard of, the Democratic former governor got 4% and the chairman of the Republican National Committee hit 51.3%. Similarly, Cooper hit 47.3% on favorable and 39.8% on unfavorable; Whatley was 14.9% favorable and 11.3% unfavorable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "North Carolina's race for Senate has only just begun, but the Whatley campaign appears to have a lot of legwork in front of them if they want to be competitive," said Carolina Journal publisher and John Locke Foundation CEO Donald Bryson. "Cooper certainly has an advantage in this race, having held statewide office for 24 consecutive years. The name ID figures should not give either party heartburn or confidence." Cooper is unbeaten in statewide elections six times. Whatley has a rousing endorsement from second-term President Donald Trump, winner of presidential elections in the state three consecutive cycles. North Carolinas historical patterns yield as much intrigue as the races expense forecast of $500 million to $750 million. The state has picked just three Republicans as governor since 1900. Yet federally, it has backed only two Democrats for president in 60 years and has sent only four Democrats to the U.S. Senate in 50 years. None of the presidents won the state in their reelection bids, and none of the senators won a second term. Senate races in the state have gone to Republicans five consecutive times the last 15 years, and seven of eight this century. Cooper will be the sixth former governor of the state to try for the U.S. Senate. One from each major party has lost, and three Democrats have been successful. Beneath red banners and a gold bust of revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh in Hanois 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 signaled the launch of what could be Vietnams most ambitious economic overhaul in decades. Vietnam aims to get rich by 2045 and become Asias 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. Theres added pressure from President Donald Trump over Vietnams trade surplus with the U.S., a reflection of its astounding economic trajectory. In 1990, the average Vietnamese could afford about $1,200 worth of goods and services a year, adjusted for local prices. Today, that figure has risen by more than 13 times to $16,385. Vietnams 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 and it faces a growing obstacle to its proposed reforms expanding private industries, strengthening social protections and investing in technology and green energy from climate change. Its all hands on deck We cant waste time anymore, said Mimi Vu of the consultancy Raise Partners. The export boom cant carry Vietnam forever Investment has soared, driven partly by U.S.-China trade tensions, and the U.S. is now Vietnams 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 $123.5 billion trade surplus with the U.S. trade in 2024, angering Trump, who threatened a 46% U.S. import tax on Vietnamese goods. The two sides appear to have settled on a 20% levy, and twice that for goods suspected of being transshipped, or routed through Vietnam to avoid U.S. trade restrictions. During negotiations with the Trump administration, Vietnams focus was on its tariffs compared to those of its neighbors and competitors, said Daniel Kritenbrink, a former U.S. ambassador to Vietnam. As long as theyre 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 Trumps 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 Vietnams economy today is more diverse and complex than those countries were at the time and it cant rely on just one winning sector to drive long-term growth and stay competitive as wages rise and cheap labor is no longer its main advantage. It needs to make multiple big bets, McClellan said. Vietnamis game plan Following Chinas 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. Its also investing heavily in infrastructure, including civilian nuclear plants and a $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 center. The government plans two special financial centers, 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 Vietnams 63 provinces will be consolidated into 34 to build regional centers 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 Vietnams exports, using imported materials and parts and low cost local labor. Local companies are stuck at the low-end of supply chains, struggling to access loans and markets that favored 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 Singapores 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. By 2030, Vietnam hopes to elevate at least 20 private firms to a global scale. But Giang warned that there will be pushback from conservatives in the Communist Party and from those who benefit from state-owned firms. A Closing Window from climate change Even as political resistance threatens to stall reforms, climate threats require urgent action. After losing a major investor over flood risks, Bruno Jaspaert knew something had to change. His firm, DEEP C Industrial Zones, houses more than 150 factories across northern Vietnam. So it hired a consultancy to redesign flood resilience plans. Climate risk is becoming its own kind of market regulation, forcing businesses to plan better, build smarter, and adapt faster. If the whole world will decide its a priorityit can go very fast, said Jaspaert. When Typhoon Yagi hit last year, causing $1.6 billion in damage, knocking 0.15% off Vietnams GDP and battering factories that produce nearly half the countrys economic output, roads in DEEP C industrial parks stayed dry. Climate risks are no longer theoretical: If Vietnam doesnt take strong action to adapt to and reduce climate change, the country could lose 1214.5% of its GDP each year by 2050, and up to one million people could fall into extreme poverty by 2030, according to the World Bank. Meanwhile, Vietnam is growing old before it gets rich. The countrys golden population window when working-age people outnumber dependents will close by 2039 and the labor force is projected to peak just three years later. That could shrink productivity and strain social services, especially since families and women in particular are the default caregivers, said Teerawichitchainan Bussarawan of the Centre for Family and Population Research at the National University of Singapore. Vietnam is racing to pre-empt the fallout by expanding access to preventive healthcare so older adults remain healthier and more independent. Gradually raising the retirement age and drawing more women into the formal workforce would help offset labor gaps and promote healthy aging, Bussarawan said. ANIRUDDHA GHOSAL, HANOI, MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... LOS ANGELES California Gov. Gavin Newsom faces a major hurdle in his quest to revamp his states congressional lines, according to a new poll: Californians deep support for its current independent redistricting commission. By nearly a two-to-one margin, voters prefer keeping an independent line-drawing panel to determine the states House seats, the latest POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab survey found. Just 36 percent of respondents back returning congressional redistricting authority to state lawmakers. Its not surprising, in the sense that California has voted twice for this independent review commission not all that long ago, said Jack Citrin, a veteran political science professor at UC Berkeley and partner on the poll. And theres a lot of mistrust and cynicism about politicians and the Legislature. Thats reflected here as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California Democrats are plowing ahead with a high-stakes gambit to redraw the states lines to counter a proposed gerrymander by Texas Republicans spurred by President Donald Trump. California officials are expected to unveil newly redrawn maps at the end of this week that would position Democrats to nab five extra seats, neutralizing the Texas redraw. Newsom, who kicks off the campaign in earnest on Thursday, has cast himself as both reluctant and eager to engage in an escalating redistricting war. He and fellow Democrats have repeatedly emphasized how Texas Republicans started this fight and vowed that any measure to overhaul the districts in California would only be triggered if Texas moves ahead. (Texas Democrats have fled the state to stall the vote on the GOP-friendly maps, although Gov. Greg Abbott said he will continue to call for new special legislative sessions until the Democrats return.) California Democrats have also promised not to do away with the states independent redistricting commission entirely. Instead, they plan to ask voters to approve a constitutional amendment that would put new maps approved by the Legislature in effect for the 2026, 2028 and 2030 election cycles, according to legislative sources familiar with the draft measure. The independent panel would then resume its role as the states line-drawer after the 2030 census. The POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab survey findings underscore why Democrats are stopping short of jettisoning the commission. The poll shows independent redistricting enjoys widespread popularity among the general public, with 64 percent support overall, and across party affiliations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Independent voters were the most enthusiastic backers of the panel, with 72 percent in favor of the commission keeping its line-drawing authority. Support among Republicans and Democrats was roughly equal 66 percent and 61 percent, respectively marking a rare spot of bipartisan agreement in this hyper-polarized political moment. That surprised me a little bit, given that this is being pushed so heavily by Newsom and by the Democratic Party nationally that we have to combat Texas, Citrin said. Older respondents were more likely to favor the independent commission, with 77 percent of people aged 80 and older in favor of keeping the status quo. Still, a healthy majority of younger voters, including 62 percent of Gen Z and millennials, supported the commission as well. The independent commissions popularity has grown over time. Californians narrowly approved the creation of an independent panel in 2008, taking the power to draw the boundaries of legislative districts away from lawmakers and giving it to a citizen commission. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two years later, voters had further warmed to independent redistricting, with 61 percent supporting a measure to give the panel authority over congressional lines as well. A measure to repeal the commission was also handily defeated that year. To overcome the popularity of good governance election reforms, Democrats this year are betting on a campaign that will frame the new maps as striking a blow against Trump, who lost the state by 20 points last year. I think the voters will approve it. I think the voters understand whats at stake, Newsom said in a news conference last Friday. We live in the most un-Trump state in America. Last week, legislators were briefed on an internal survey by Newsoms pollster, David Binder, which found a redistricting measure with multiple elements including designating the new maps as temporary and only valid if Texas proceeds started with slim majority support (52 percent). It grew in popularity when the messaging became more overtly partisan. Democrats have already signaled that strategy, trotting out talking points about fighting fire with fire and rejecting Trumps power grab. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, the public wariness of lawmaker-drawn maps captured in the POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab poll suggests an uphill climb for Newsom and Democrats. If this is the starting point, then they will have a struggle, Citrin said. The survey also looked at the opinion of policy influencers, a group of roughly 500 POLITICO Pro subscribers who are deeply versed in the states political landscape. Their views are largely in line with the general electorate: 61 percent support the independent commission while 39 percent back lines being drawn by lawmakers. Among influencers, the partisan divide is more stark. Republican insiders, who are likely keenly aware that multiple GOP-held seats are at risk, overwhelmingly support the commission, with 91 percent. The panel also enjoys strong support among 79 percent of independents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic insiders are the sole group to back legislators holding the redistricting pen and just barely; 51 percent support returning the redrawing powers to lawmakers, while 49 percent want to keep the commission. This project consists of two separate opinion studies of the California electorate and policy influencers in the state, fielded by TrueDot, the artificial intelligence-accelerated research platform, in collaboration with the Citrin Center and Possibility Lab at UC Berkeley and POLITICO. The public opinion study, made possible in part with support from the California Constitution Center, was conducted in the field between July 28 and Aug. 12. The sample of 1,445 registered voters was selected at random by Verasight, with interviews conducted in English and Spanish, and includes an oversample of Hispanic voters. The modeled error estimate for the full sample is plus/minus 2.6 percent. The policy influencer study was conducted from July 30 to Aug. 11, among 512 subscribers to POLITICO Pro, and the modeled error estimate is plus/minus 3.7 percent. Aug. 14POPLAR An international connection was celebrated during the Poplar Village Board meeting Tuesday, Aug. 12. Board Trustee Kory Gilderman traveled to the other side of the world in July to formalize a sister city partnership between the village and Madang, Papua New Guinea. The agreement Gilderman signed was the first ever between the United States and Papua New Guinea. He and Briana Fiandt, director of collections and exhibits at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, shared details of their trip Tuesday. Much of it was about connections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Kory and the governor really hit it off," Fiandt said. "I think you guys have a lot in common with hunting and fishing and that kind of thing." "Yeah, yeah, we connected for sure. We were hugging by the end of it," Gilderman said. One of Gilderman's favorite parts of the trip was a visit to Bilbil village, where they were greeted with a sing-sing celebration dance and he handed out chocolate. "Giving these kids this chocolate was just the highlight of my life," he said. "They were so happy, and they gave us gifts as well. ... They were so happy that we were there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another highlight was meeting Lisa the kangaroo. "There are no monkeys in Papua New Guinea, so kangaroos evolved to be the tree habitat dwellers, and they're adorable and they lick their elbows in order to stay cool," Gilderman said. When he tried licking his own elbows, however, it did nothing to cool him down. Fiandt made connections at the National Museum and Art Gallery in Madang, which is opening a wing in September dedicated to World War II aviation. The Bong Center has sent a display about Richard Bong and the Marge plane for the new wing. Fiandt also plans to send a uniform from the U.S. 32nd Infantry Division, which was formed from Army National Guard units from Wisconsin and Michigan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The connection between Poplar and Madang started with a question. "(Briana) was kind of the catalyst for all of it in that she asked a question about two years ago, 'Where is that plane?'" Gilderman said. The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center partnered with Pacific Wrecks to find the iconic Marge plane that was piloted by America's Ace of Aces, Richard I. Bong of Poplar. The plane crashed March 24, 1944. The man who was piloting it at the time, 1st Lt. Thomas Malone, survived and was found by members of the 32nd Infantry Division. The Marge plane was discovered in May 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement near the village of Lila, which is in Madang Province. Where the partnership goes from here is up to the two communities half a world apart. "This isn't just a sign it and ignore it," Gilderman said. "This is a real deal and Sister Cities doesn't do anything to maintain a relationship. It's on us now, and I'm taking it seriously." Gilderman and Fiandt suggested next steps could include: * Sending a letter to Madang with congratulations on the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence. * Creating a Poplar flag that can be sent to Madang to fly over their capital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Hanging the Madang flag that delegates received in a place of honor at the village hall. * Giving a public presentation on the trip and its importance. * Seeking more members for the village's Sister City Committee. * Sharing information about the partnership on social media. * Starting a WhatsApp group with the Madang People. "They all communicate by WhatsApp," Fiandt said. The trip sparked additional ideas, such as selling pottery, fragrances and other goods from Madang at the Poplar Hardware or the Bong Center. "It was an incredible experience," Fiandt said of the trip. "The culture in Papua New Guinea is one of building trust through face-to-face meetings, and this trip gave us the chance to start building those relationships. We were able to have conversations about how we can work together and what both towns would like the relationship to look like." OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) Positive Tomorrows, an elementary school that specifically serves homeless children and their families in Oklahoma City. They also help homeless families with food, transportation, school supplies, medical care, and other necessitiesabsolutely free. Ive had family that has experienced homelessness, and I know exactly what it looks like for me, said Matt Vaugh, a volunteer with Positive Tomorrows, talking about why the Oklahoma City organization is so important to him. PAY IT 4WARD: Scholarship program helps students dance Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matts wife, Kaylea, had firsthand experience with the school when she was young and her family experienced some temporary homelessness, and remembers her time at Positive Tomorrows as a special experience. They gave me this backpack and it was full of crayons and a coloring book and toothbrush that looked way cooler than the one I already had, remembers Kaylea. And just all kinds of things that were mine, they belonged to me, I got to take them home with me, and that just felt very special. Her husband Matt agrees. Whenever I heard about Positive Tomorrows, and I heard about the gap they are really filling in our city, as it pertains to how they are serving the homeless community. I learned it looks really different from anything I thought it looked like. Its not just they serve the students, theyre embracing this idea of serving the entire family. No matter what version of homelessness they are actually experiencing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And Matt says, since the majority of Positive Tomorrows funding comes from private donors and its mission is so critical for OKC, he thought the organization was a perfect fit for First Fidelity Banks Pay It Forward award and nominated the school. PAY IT 4WARD: Boy with cerebral palsy nominates his parasports coach for Pay It 4Ward award After being presented the $400 prize from First Fidelitys Zach Shirley, we surprised the schools Director of Development, Sara Jacobson. Thank you so much, thanks you guys! Sara said after accepting the money on behalf of the school. Sara says her job is a labor of love. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were 100% tuition-free for our families and kids who are experiencing homelessness. Just trying to make sure they have everything they need, Sara told us. So were restocking the classrooms to get the teachers ready and helping our family-support team to work with parents so they can have a fresh start, so they can have housing and all the support they need to make a really great life for their kids. Its a great space to be in here, I really love it. Hugs all around for Sara and the mission they believe in to bring children a positive tomorrow. Benefit concert information. Pay it 4Ward is sponsored by First Fidelity Bank. Nominate someone for Pay it 4Ward Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SIBLEY, Ill. (WCIA) The search for David Jordan, the man accused of shooting two Ford County law enforcement officers over the weekend, continues Wednesday afternoon as another possible sighting was reported to State Police. State Police confirmed with WCIA at 4:22 p.m. that they are actively looking for Jordan and searching the area of IL-47 near Ford County 1100 N Road in Sibley. Multiple other law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search. UPDATE: Sibley investigation was for report of person walking in fields; no one found yet Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Police added that there is no immediate threat to the public, but they ask that everyone avoids the area at this time to give law enforcement space while they continue to work. Jordan has been on the run since the early morning hours of Saturday, Aug. 9. Around 2:30 a.m. that day, Gibson City Police officers and Ford County Sheriffs deputies responded to the area of Ash Street and Sangamon Avenue for reports of a naked 70-year-old man, who was later identified as Jordan. When officers attempted to make contact with Jordan at his residence, he allegedly opened fire on them, injuring a police officer and a deputy. Shortly after the shooting, the house caught fire. On Tuesday night, there was a heavy police presence in Sibley while State Police investigated a report of a person walking through the fields. After several hours of searching, no one was found. The search in that area resumed Wednesday afternoon and is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A WCIA reporter on the scene said officers have been searching the area for around four hours now. Some officers are flying drones to get an overhead view, while others are watching for movement from the ground. This is a developing story. We will share updates as we learn more. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Online critics of New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani are claiming a photo shows a top staffer posing beside graffiti of a Nazi swastika. But the woman named in the posts, activist Linda Sarsour, is neither part of Mamdani's campaign nor the person in the picture, she told AFP; the image dates to at least 2012, when it was published without any accompanying information about the subject. "Hey Jews of New York, just in case you were wondering who Mamdani's Senior Advisor is," says one August 9, 2025 post on X. Another adds: "Zohran Mamdani's senior advisor Linda Sarsour. But I'm sure he only hates Zionists not Jews." Screenshot from X taken August 12, 2025 Screenshot from X taken August 12, 2025 Similar posts spread across X and other platforms, including Instagram, more than a month after Mamdani officially became the Democratic candidate for mayor in New York City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The self-declared democratic socialist, a rising star on the left who would become the first Muslim to hold the city's top office if elected, upset former New York governor Andrew Cuomo in a shock primary victory in June. The 33-year-old has staked his campaign on a message of lower rents, free daycare and buses, and other populist ideas. He has also been an outspoken critic of Israel, accusing the key US ally of committing a genocide in Gaza amid its war with Hamas. But there is no evidence that the photo spreading online shows Sarsour -- and the activist is not a member of Mamdani's team. "That person depicted in the photo is not me and I do not hold any official positions in the Mamdani campaign," Sarsour told AFP in an August 13 email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Facebook, where Sarsour's profile features a "Zohran for New York City" cover photo, she further clarified that the claims were false. "Just figured out why i am getting an influx of some of the most despicable hate filled messages and emails," Sarsour wrote in the August 11 post (archived here). "The opposition is recirculating an old debunked photo. An outrageous image they purportedly say is me and it clear as day that IT IS NOT." Sarsour is a longtime and prominent Palestinian-American activist from New York who earned recognition from former president Barack Obama's administration as a "champion of change". Among other leadership positions, she was a founding member of the "Women's March" movement that spearheaded mass protests against President Donald Trump, before she stepped down in 2019 alongside two others amid accusations of antisemitism. Linda Sarsour speaks the keynote speaker at the CUNY Graduate School of Public Healths inaugural commencement ceremony June 1, 2017 at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York TIMOTHY A. CLARY AFP TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP While she publicly backed Mamdani, her support has not extended to an official campaign role (archived here). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An August 13 New York Times analysis of Mamdani's "inner circle" lists two senior advisors but does not mention Sarsour (archived here). AFP contacted the Mamdani campaign for comment, but no response was forthcoming. Dubious origins Reverse image searches revealed the photo of a woman beside swastika graffiti has been online since at least 2012, when it was posted to a Polish internet forum with no accompanying information detailing where it was taken or who it depicted (archived here). Screenshot from wiocha.pl taken August 13, 2025 In her Facebook post disavowing the picture, Sarsour blamed far-right activist Laura Loomer -- who has repeatedly promoted online disinformation and suggested the 9/11 terrorist attacks were an inside job -- for linking it to her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Loomer included the image in a 2018 article attacking Sarsour on "Big League Politics," a conservative site AFP has also fact-checked. Reuben Moreton, a facial identification expert in the United Kingdom and director of the forensic consulting firm Reli, examined the swastika image in comparison with photos Sarsour posted in 2011 and 2012 (archived here, here and here). The low resolution and compression of the swastika photo limits the conclusiveness of a facial examination, Moreton told AFP, but while the two women have "some general similarities" between their eyebrows and mouths, "there are also observable differences." He pointed to the morphology of their noses, the overall proportions of their faces, the fullness of their cheeks and other details. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These observations support the proposition that the images of the individual stood next to the swastika and the images of Ms. Sarsour depict different people," Moreton said in an August 14 email, adding that an automated facial-recognition algorithm also produced a score indicating the same. AFP has previously debunked other misinformation targeting Mamdani here, here and here. The wife of a former Atlanta Hawks player is recovering after she was attacked by a shark while vacationing in Puerto Rico. Eleonora Boi was swimming in waist-deep water with her husband, Danilo Gallinari, and their children when a shark bit her thigh. I felt a strong pain and my thigh was burning, Boi described to ABC News. My idea was, maybe its a huge jellyfish...but it wasnt a jellyfish. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] As soon as everyone started screaming, I had my son with me. I ran towards my wife and daughter, Gallinari said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The couple grabbed their children and rushed to shore where a woman helped put pressure on the wound until help arrived. At the time, Boi was six months pregnant. I was saying, I dont want to die, she said. I want that my baby is safe, and I was crying. I was desperate. Boi was rushed to the hospital where doctors told her they had never treated a shark bite victim before. TRENDING STORIES: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She has weekly visits with the doctor and is expected to make a full recovery. But she says she remains traumatized. The couple says they are grateful to the good Samaritan who stayed by their side through the whole ordeal. "You know, she was an angel. Danilo was with me, and she, she helped so much. I would like to say thank you to this woman because I dont know her name, and I just want to say thank you to her because she helped a lot," Boi said. Gallinari played with the Hawks from 2020 to 2022 when he left for the Boston Celtics. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] (NewsNation) Police in Massachusetts are searching for a pregnant woman who has been missing for a week. Kylee Monteiro, 18, was last seen on Aug. 7 in Rehoboth, about 50 miles from Boston, according to local authorities. A friend of Monteiros expressed concern for her safety and said their last conversation felt troubling. She was like I dont feel safe right now somethings not right. I tried talking with her after that, and she just stopped responding to me after that, the friend, who was not identified, told local outlet WCVB. I just want her to know that like, we miss you, and were not going to stop trying to find you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Search underway for missing man at Rocky Mountain National Park Monteiros sister, Faith Monteiro, told NewsNation affiliate WPRI that Monteiro is 11 weeks pregnant and recently graduated from Attleboro High School. We love her, we miss her and we just want her to come home, Faith Monteiro said. Kylee Monteiro, 18, was last seen on Aug. 7, 2025. (Rehoboth Police Department) Kylee Monteiro, 18, was last seen on Aug. 7, 2025. (Rehoboth Police Department) Several crews, including a K-9 unit and a dive team, have searched through wooded areas, a nearby pond and homes in the area where Monteiro went missing, WPRI reported. Monteiros friend Sofia Cordeiro told WPRI the two usually talk every day, and that it was unusual for her not to have her phone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New age-progressed picture of missing Tennessee girl released I just want her to know we miss you, and were not going to stop trying to find you, Cordiero said. Monteiro is described as 6 feet tall, with light brown hair and brown eyes. She was wearing a red T-shirt that said Get Over It, ripped blue jeans and tan boots. Police said she may be carrying a white bag with her belongings inside. Anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area is asked to contact the Rehoboth Police Department at (508) 252-3722. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A wildfire or other emergency can lead to evacuations within a matter of minutes. The Department of Emergency Management says there is no wrong time to prepare for an emergency. Over 750 fires have started in Utah in 2025, burning over 150,000 acres and leading to significant evacuations throughout the state. On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the Willard Peak Fire broke out in North Ogden, and several blocks were evacuated within a couple hours of the fire start. Additionally, almost 30,000 people lost power as a result of the fire. Willard Peak Fire burning in North Ogden, threatening upwards of 15 structures Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While evacuation procedures are decided and conducted by local governments, the Utah Division of Emergency Management often partners with local jurisdictions to conduct emergency drills and exercises. Additionally, they encourage individuals and households to stay prepared for an emergency. Bryan Stinson, with Be Ready Utah and the Division of Emergency Management, spoke with ABC4 on what people should do before and during an emergency. Before an Emergency Be Ready Utah, within the Utah Division of Emergency Management, believes that anytime is a good time to talk about emergency preparedness and initial preparedness can help individuals ensure theyre ready for natural disasters and other emergencies Prior to wildfire season, individuals should make their properties defensible, by clearing debris and keeping other combustible materials away from structures. Additionally, when weather conditions are especially dry and hot, Bryan Stinson says, You need to be prepared to listen to weather forecasts, specifically when there are red flag warnings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City posts updates on severe weather events and hazardous weather conditions. Additionally, regional weather radios give updates on hazardous weather, natural disasters, and evacuation orders. On an individual basis, Stinson says people should keep your phone charged and have battery chargers and backups for those, so you can always receive those emergency alerts. Additionally, keeping vehicle fuel tanks at least half full can ensure that, when an emergency occurs, individuals can be immediately prepared to evacuate. Stinson also advises people to be aware of multiple evacuation routes from their homes, work, and school. Emergency preparedness does not have to be super complex. According to Stinson, it can be as simple as having a plan on where to go and what to do during an emergency, or having a basic disaster supply kit with water, food, personal documents, and medication. During an Emergency When an emergency does occur, such as a wildfire, it is important to act immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You need to grab your family, your pets, your disaster supply kits and maybe some thigs, like your phone, car keys, wallet, purse, other things, Stinson says, But get out of there quickly and safely when the emergency evacuation alert comes out. Stinson also says that people dont have to wait until the evacuation alert comes through to act, If youre starting to feel like your area is unsafe, dont wait for the alert. Go ahead and evacuate anyway. Evacuation orders are decided by local government agencies, and often posted by those agencies on social media. Additionally, emergency agencies can send emergency alerts to advise residents of an area of evacuations and other hazardous conditions. Individuals should look at their local governments websites to see if they can sign up for 911 alerts. At the end of the day, though, Stinson emphasizes the importance of taking any steps towards emergency preparedness, This isnt anything crazy. This is just basic standard being prepared for rainy days or, in this case, fiery days. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. In a new video, survivors of Hamas captivity and a grieving widow appeal to Trump, warning that ongoing fighting puts the remaining hostages at risk. Former hostages and the widow of an Israeli hostage who was killed in captivity appealed to US President Donald Trump in a video in English published on Thursday to support a comprehensive deal to end the Israel-Hamas War and secure the release of the 50 hostages still held by the terrorist group. The video, published by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, featured six survivors of captivity: Naama Levy, Ohad Ben Ami, Doron Steinbrecher, Sasha Troufanov, Arbel Yehoud, and Iair Horn, alongside Michal Lobanov, whose husband, Alexander Lobanov, was killed by Hamas in August. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They thanked Trump for his role in bringing home 39 hostages, calling on him to act again. Several also said that the current expansion of the military campaign poses a direct threat to those still in captivity. We are here today because you chose to act, Levy said. Ben Ami described his time underground in Gaza. It means endless hunger, constant fear, and darkness. Every day is a fight to stay alive. Released hostage Ohad Ben Ami is reunited with his family, 08/02/2025. (credit: MAAYAN TOAF/GPO) Steinbrecher recalled moments of panic during her captivity. I remember hearing an explosion above my head and praying they wouldnt get too close, she said. Every sound made my heart stop. Troufanov said that continued fighting risks the lives of hostages. Every bullet, every strike, could be the one that ends their life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yehoud, whose partner is still held in Gaza, said she dreams of the day they are reunited. Every single one needs to come back home, she said. Widow of Alexander Lobanov warns of dangers of continued of IDF activity Lobanov, whose husband was one of six hostages executed by Hamas last August, said her husband died after military pressure intensified. He came back to me in a coffin, she said. President Trump, please act now before its too late for them, too." Horn said Trump still has the opportunity to change the course of the conflict. You have the power to make history, to be the president of peace, the one who ended the war, ended the suffering, and brought every hostage home, including my little brother. The video ended with all seven speakers chanting, Bring them home. Bring them home. Bring them home, before Levy added, Seal the deal. Cities and towns in Rhode Island have a lot of autonomy in how they address homelessness, but advocates are worried that a recent executive order by President Donald Trump could continue to upend federal funding and incentivize communities to enact policies that punish homelessness. The July executive order, titled Ending Crime and Disorder on Americas Streets, directs federal agencies to prioritize grants for state and local governments that ban homeless encampments and loitering, among other practices. The order also calls on the attorney general to reverse court decisions that limit the government from involuntarily detaining people who are homeless and relocating those experiencing mental illness or addiction issues. From having talked to my colleagues across the country, its just horribly scary, said Kimberly Simmons, executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness. The Trump-Vance administration does not seem to understand that some of the social ills in our communities are not going to be fixed by putting people in jail or having them illegally moved from their encampments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Like many of the presidents other executive orders, the directive has been criticized for its vagueness, and it remains unclear if or when the measures could go into effect. President Donald Trump speaks during an executive order signing ceremony in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on July 31, 2025, in Washington, D.C. How will the executive order affect Rhode Island? Rhode Islands housing shortage has been linked to skyrocketing rents and home prices that can exacerbate homelessness. In January, Redfin ranked Providence as the least affordable metro area in the United States. This executive order will put municipalities in the position of determining how they want to address the housing problem affecting the state, noted Steven Brown, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island. If they want to take the punitive approach that the Trump administration is suggesting and take funds to do that well, the ACLU and other organizations will be pushing municipalities to stay away from these funding opportunities. They simply will not work. Simmons explained that the vast majority of homeless shelters nationwide rely on grants from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which also supports affordable housing programs and other resources for preventing homelessness. In 2024, Rhode Island received more than $30 million worth of state and local HUD grants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The executive order directs HUD, as well as the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Transportation, to prioritize doling out those grants to communities that crack down on encampments, squatting, illicit drug use and tracking sex offenders. However, the order ignores research-backed strategies for combating homelessness, said Simmons. One widely used approach is the housing first philosophy, which favors securing permanent housing for unhoused individuals and families as soon as possible, as opposed to prolonged shelter stays, because it increases their likelihood of achieving long-term housing stability. The services we provide are evidence-based, added Simmons. These arent things people are just dreaming up. RI cities and towns enacting camping bans The executive orders stated purpose is to abolish endemic vagrancy, disorderly behavior, sudden confrontations and violent attacks. Brown explained how the language attempts to distance politicians and lawmakers from the countrys worsening homelessness crisis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres no question that the executive order is an attempt to smear all homeless people and blame them for their situation when it is often government policies themselves that have created their homelessness, he said. Its especially ironic and disturbing coming from this administration, which has gleefully taken away important safety net programs. In June 2024, the Supreme Court ruled it was constitutional to issue citations or arrest unhoused people for sleeping outside. Since then, Cranston, West Warwick and Woonsocket have all implemented camping bans to target homeless encampments. Conversely, in Providence, the City Council passed an ordinance this year to prohibit fining people for sleeping or camping on public property. Rhode Island became the first state to pass a Homeless Bill of Rights in 2012, which codified the right for unhoused people to move about freely in public and receive the same level of privacy in tents as permanent residences, among other protections. Recent years have seen proposals to add more details and protections to the document as unhoused Rhode Islanders continue to report violations of their rights by police officers or other municipal authorities. Im hopeful that the fact there is a Homeless Bill of Rights in Rhode Island is a signal that this state rejects the very punitive approach the Trump executive order proposes, said Brown. I certainly hope that once theres more concreteness to the executive order, municipal leaders will take a stand and be clear that they will reject funding that requires implementation of punitive measures to address homelessness. Addressing shortages Gov. Dan McKee faced mounting public pressure to declare a public emergency last winter when shelters around the state were inundated, culminating in a serious shelter bed shortage during the coldest time of year. The waiting list for shelter beds is expected to worsen with a 56% reduction from last year in state funding for homeless services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Simmons said her team has been working closely with the Rhode Island State Council of Churches to create more cooling and warming centers, as nonprofit organizations help fill the gap. There are other options, like eviction policies and how we manage legally going into encampments, she said, suggesting policy solutions that dont require substantial funding. There are things we could do that would benefit the most vulnerable people who are struggling, so I think thats where were going to focus a whole lot of our advocacy and attention. This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Trump's executive order on homelessness will have impacts in RI U.S. President Donald Trump warned early today (Macau time) 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 meets 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. Trump was very clear that the U.S. wants to achieve a ceasefire at the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron said at a separate appearance in France. 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. 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. MDT/AP Like this: Like Loading... Deloitte 100 Private companies play a pivotal role in Cincinnatis economy and community. Each year, The Enquirer and Deloitte team up to recognize them through the Deloitte Cincinnati 100 program. Also, one local business leader will be honored with the Carl H. Lindner Award for Entrepreneurial and Civic Spirit. If you are a private company, please complete the survey to ensure your company is considered for inclusion in the 2025 Deloitte Cincinnati 100 list. Visit the programs website for eligibility requirements and further details. The 2025 Deloitte Cincinnati 100 survey is closing on Friday, Aug. 15. Apply now to be included. If you have questions, please contact Deloitte. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Private companies: Fill out the Deloitte 100 survey now A series of pro-Palestinian protests targeting an Israeli cruise ship around Greece have irritated a conservative government walking a diplomatic tightrope with Middle Eastern powers during the Gaza war. At the crack of dawn on Thursday at the port of Piraeus outside Athens, dozens of riot police armed with truncheons, tear gas and shields sealed up a cruise terminal from hundreds of demonstrators. Their ire was directed at the "Crown Iris", a hulking Israeli tourist ship that has attracted protests at each of its stops in the country since last month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tourism is a pillar of the Greek economy, but pro-Palestinian activists say the visitors "whitewash" Israel's devastating war in Gaza that was sparked by the unprecedented 2023 Hamas attack. According to the All Workers Militant Front (PAME), a communist-affiliated union that called the rally, the Crown Iris was carrying Israeli soldiers. "We cannot tolerate people who have contributed to the genocide of the Palestinian people moving amongst us," protester Yorgos Michailidis told AFP in Piraeus. "We want people everywhere to see that we don't only care about tourism and the money they bring," the 43-year-old teacher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Katerina Patrikiou, a 48-year-old hospital worker, the visitors "are not tourists -- they are the slaughterers of children and civilians in Gaza". - 'Useful idiots' - Greece traditionally maintained a pro-Arab foreign policy, but governments of different political stripes have in recent years woven closer ties with Israel in defence, security and energy. Athens has carefully tried to protect both relations during the war, accusing the left-wing opposition of undermining the strategic Israel alliance aimed at counterbalancing the influence of historic rival Turkey in the eastern Mediterranean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The useful idiots for Turkey have been in our ports, where their extreme actions seriously damage Greece's image in Israel," Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis wrote on X last month. "We must protect this alliance as the apple of our eye and isolate these fools... Those who exhibit antisemitic behaviour act against Greece's interests." Before joining the ruling conservative party in 2012, Georgiadis was a prominent member of far-right party Laos, which had a history of anti-Semitic statements. When first named health minister a year later, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) had urged the government to reconsider, noting that Georgiadis had made "troubling remarks" about Jewish people and had promoted an anti-Semitic book. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2017, he publicly apologised for having "coexisted with and tolerated the opinions of people who showed disrespect to my Jewish compatriots". Several protests each rallying hundreds of people attempted to prevent the Crown Iris from docking at Mediterranean islands including Rhodes, Crete and Syros last month, with occasional scuffles between demonstrators and police. According to The Times of Israel, the ship's owners decided to skip Syros after 200 people protested as the vessel approached. Israel's ambassador to Greece, Noam Katz, condemned an "attempt to harm the strong relations between our peoples, and to intimidate Israeli tourists" in Syros. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greece's Minister of Citizen Protection Michalis Chrisochoidis has said that anyone who "prevents a citizen of a third country from visiting our country will be prosecuted" for racism. - 'Whitewash crimes' - PAME accused the government of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of using antisemitism allegations "to whitewash the crimes of the murderer state, suppress any reaction, and any expression of solidarity with the Palestinian people". "Nobody is racist, nobody has a problem with Jewish identity... Our problem is the people who support genocide," Michailidis said at Thursday's rally. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Gaza's Hamas rulers resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official figures. Palestinian militants also took 251 hostages that day, with 49 still held in Gaza, including 27 who the Israeli army says are dead. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed more than 61,000 Palestinians, mainly civilians, according to figures from Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry which the United Nations considers reliable. An Israeli aid blockade has exacerbated already dire humanitarian conditions in the devastated strip and plunged its more than two million inhabitants into the risk of famine. imm/jph/bc When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speaks during a news conference at the Department of Health and Human Services on April 16, 2025 in Washington, DC. . | Credit: Alex Wong/Getty Images A prominent medical journal has refused a call made by the U.S. secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to retract a study that found that aluminum in vaccines does not pose a health risk to children. Published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine in mid-July, the study evaluated the safety of aluminum used in childhood vaccines by analyzing vaccination and other health records from over 1.2 million children in Denmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aluminum is used as an "adjuvant" in some vaccines, meaning it's an ingredient that helps stimulate a person's immune response. The adjuvant has been in use for over 80 years and is considered safe, but "concerns about potential harms continue to resurface," the study authors wrote. The researchers concluded that there is no association between aluminum exposure from early childhood vaccines and 50 conditions, including allergies and autism both conditions which Kennedy and an organization he chaired previously claimed are caused by aluminum in vaccines . In an opinion piece published this earlier month on the website TrialSite News , Kennedy attacked the study and called upon the journal to retract it, calling it "badly designed" and accusing the study's authors of manipulating their data. Now, in an exclusive report from Reuters , the journal's editor-in-chief, Christine Laine , said that "I see no reason for retraction." She added that Kennedy's arguments "do not invalidate what they found, and there's no evidence of scientific misconduct." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In their report, the authors do point out potential limitations of their study as is customary in peer-reviewed research including the fact that there may be confounding factors that they haven't accounted for. But the strengths of the paper, especially the size and quality of the dataset, lend strong confidence to the results, Reuters reported. Despite the well-established safety record of aluminum adjuvants, anti-vaccine activists have gone after the ingredient for being "extremely neurotoxic," as Kennedy once called it . Aluminum is toxic in very high doses, but the quantities found in vaccines are far below these thresholds. In fact, infants typically ingest more aluminum in their food than they do from vaccines . Related: 'These decisions were completely reckless': Funding cuts to mRNA vaccines will make America more vulnerable to pandemics "I am used to controversy around vaccine safety studies especially those that relate to autism, but I have not been targeted by a political figurehead in this way before," the paper's senior author, Anders Hviid , a professor at the Statens Serum Institut in Copenhagen, told Reuters in an email. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RELATED STORIES 'Vaccine rejection is as old as vaccines themselves': Science historian Thomas Levenson on the history of germ theory and its deniers Could vaccines prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease? RFK's proposal to let bird flu spread through poultry could set us up for a pandemic, experts warn Laine said that the journal does not plan to respond to the health secretary directly. However, Hviid refuted many of Kennedy's key arguments in an op-ed of his own that was also published on TrialSite News. In response to Kennedy's claims that the study was "opaque" because the researchers didn't make the raw data available, Hviid explained that doing so is illegal in Denmark. Data that could reveal information about an individual's health is protected by privacy laws in the E.U. He also pointed out several factual errors Kennedy made, such as the assertion that Hviid is biased because he works for a company that develops vaccines, which he does not. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This isn't the first time that Kennedy has lashed out at those who oppose his vaccine stance. In June, he removed all 17 sitting members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccine advisory committee, replacing them with new members known for undermining scientific evidence about vaccines . According to a report from Bloomberg News published earlier this summer, Kennedy asked this new panel to review vaccines containing aluminum. Such a review could affect at least two dozen vaccines used in the U.S., many of which are part of routine childhood vaccinations. This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to offer medical advice. An Ohio lawmaker has introduced the Real-Time Ride Status Notification Act, which would require Ohio amusement parks to provide real-time updates on ride availability. The proposed legislation from State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) mandates that major amusement parks, such as Cedar Point and Kings Island, post up-to-date ride status on-site through digital signage and online via their official apps or websites. These updates must occur within five minutes of any ride becoming temporarily closed or returning to operation. Families spend hundreds of dollars and travel across the state to visit these parks, said Rep. Brennan. They deserve accurate, real-time information so they can plan their day and avoid the frustration of walking across the park to find a ride shut down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Ohio Department of Agriculture, which already oversees amusement ride safety inspections under laws like Tylers Law, would be responsible for enforcing the new requirements. Parks that fail to comply could face civil fines. Rep. Brennan noted that many parks already monitor ride status internally, and the bill aims to make this information publicly accessible in a timely manner. This is a commonsense consumer protection measure. Just like we expect real-time updates from public transportation or airports, parkgoers should be able to know which rides are operating before getting in lineor before leaving home, said Rep. Brennan. The bill is expected to receive a committee assignment in the coming weeks. If passed, it would take effect one year after enactment to allow parks time to implement the required systems. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) Prosecutors continued presenting their case against a man accused of a 2022 shooting death at a gas station on the South Side. Akeem Hargrove, 32, has been on trial this week in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court before Judge Anthony DApolito on a charge of aggravated murder for the Dec. 22, 2022, shooting death of Devin Bell, 26 at a 1907 South Ave. gas station. A jury was selected Monday. Testimony began Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the witnesses today was a representative of the Cuyahoga County Coroners Office who testified about the autopsy done on Bell after he was killed. Yesterday, jurors heard from a co-defendant, Zachary Bair, 32, who testified for the prosecution. 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. Prosecutors may wrap up their case Thursday. It is unclear if the defense will call any witnesses. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) -A Florida deputy who punched a Black man at a February traffic stop did not commit a crime, prosecutors said in a report on an incident that was condemned by civil rights groups. A video of the incident showed officer D. Bowers punching William McNeil Jr., 22, who recorded the clip. It went viral in July when the video was posted online. Other officers threw the Black man to the ground and surrounded him during the traffic stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Officer Bowers conducted a lawful traffic stop and gave McNeil 12 individual lawful commands, which McNeil refused to obey," the report released by the State Attorney's Office for the 4th Judicial Circuit of Florida said. The report was dated Wednesday. McNeil "created a dangerous situation for himself and law enforcement," the report from prosecutors added. McNeil recorded the video as he sat in the driver's seat of his car after deputies pulled him over. In the video, he asked to speak to supervisors and questioned why he was stopped. An officer then smashed the driver's side window, ordered McNeil to exit the car, and hit him in his face. Another officer pulled him from the vehicle and threw him to the ground as other deputies surrounded him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said in July that the public should not rush to judgment and that officers asked McNeil several times to come out of his vehicle. McNeil was arrested and charged with resisting arrest, marijuana possession, driving with a suspended license, not wearing a seatbelt, and not using headlights in bad weather. He was sentenced to and served two days in jail, ABC News reported. Bowers had said McNeil was reaching toward an area where there was a knife. McNeil's attorneys - lawyers Ben Crump and Harry Daniels - said their client was never combative. McNeil's lawyers criticized the decision not to pursue criminal charges and called on the U.S. Justice Department to investigate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Civil rights group Black Lives Matter also condemned the decision not to pursue charges and said the viral video showed police brutality. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in WashingtonEditing by Rod Nickel) The prosecution is fighting back against a Superior Court judges opinion that life sentences without the possibility of parole are unconstitutional for minors in New Hampshire. The debate has played out for years in the resentencing of Robert Tulloch, who is serving two such sentences for killing two Dartmouth College professors, Half and Susanne Zantop, inside their Hanover home in 2001. Tulloch, who was 17 at the time of the murders, was given a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Judge Lawrence MacLeod sided with Tullochs attorneys in agreeing that the state constitution prohibits life without parole for juveniles, not just those mandatory in nature, in part because it would be a cruel and unusual punishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecutors Benjamin Agati and Audriana Mekula filed a request this week for MacLeod to reconsider his ruling. The New Hampshire Attorney Generals Office believes the sentence is consistent with evolving standards of decency, or cruel and unusual punishment, as applied to the states constitution, according to the motion to reconsider filed earlier this week. The four-page document says the New Hampshire Supreme Court has yet to hold that that those standards apply to such a sentence, which is part of MacLeods ruling. According to the seven-page motion, the U.S. Supreme Court has not held that life sentences without parole are categorically unconstitutional. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that such mandatory life sentences for juvenile murderers are unconstitutional. Two years later, the state Supreme Court ruled that four minors sentenced to life without parole were entitled to new sentencing hearings, including Tulloch. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement High court declined The state Supreme Court has declined to weigh in on Tullochs case before it heads to resentencing. A date for the resentencing hearing has yet to be set. MacLeod cited New Hampshire as being the only state in New England and one of only 17 states nationwide that has defendants serving such sentences, and the unequivocal trend amongst other jurisdictions is to ban or place additional restriction on (life without parole) for minors. The prosecutors argue that MacLeod shouldnt have considered the standards of decency in other states when making his decision. When reviewing New Hampshire legislation surrounding sentences for juveniles who are certified as adults and who subsequently are convicted of capital or first-degree murder, it is clear that, under the evolving standards of decency analysis, New Hampshire still finds it decent to sentence juveniles convicted of capital or first-degree murder to life without parole, the prosecutors said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The prosecutors noted how Tulloch, along with co-defendant James Parker, went to the Zantop home posing as students when Tulloch repeatedly stabbed Half to death and after Parker stabbed Susanne, Tulloch fatally stabbed her in the head and body, according to the document. The killings were part of a robbery where the two planned to get money to travel overseas. Parker has since been released on parole. Steven Spader, who was 17 at the time, is also serving life without parole after breaking into a Mont Vernon home in 2009 with two others and stabbing Kimberly Cates by striking her 36 times with a machete. Spader did not contest his sentence and was resentenced to life without parole after a hearing in 2013. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just because life without parole is used sparingly does not mean that New Hampshires standards of decency make this sentence unusual, and therefore, unconstituional, the prosecutors said. Tullochs attorney, Richard Guerriero, did not return an email seeking comment on Thursday afternoon. WASHINGTON (AP) Prosecutors seek death penalty against member of cultlike Zizian group newly charged with murdering Vermont border agent. Federal prosecutors said Thursday they would seek the death penalty against a Washington state woman accused of fatally shooting a U.S. Border Patrol agent during a traffic stop in January after she was indicted by a grand jury on a murder charge. Teresa Youngblut, 21, is accused of fatally shooting David Maland on Jan. 20 in northern Vermont. Police say she opened fire on agents during a traffic stop, sparking a shootout that also left her companion, Felix Baukholt, a German national, dead. Youngblut initially faced federal firearm charges and was ordered held without bail in January. On Thursday, prosecutors announced that a Vermont grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Youngblut with the murder of the Border Patrol agent and the assault of two additional agents with a deadly weapon, along with related firearms offenses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawyers for Youngblut did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Youngblut and Baukholt had been under surveillance by law enforcement officials for several days prior to the shooting after a hotel employee reported the two were wearing tactical gear and appeared to be armed. Undated photo shows Border Patrol agent David Maland posing with a service dog. / Credit: Department of Homeland Security via AP On the day of the shooting, officers observed the two in a parking lot in Newport, Vermont, where Baukholt appeared to be wrapping unknown objects in aluminum foil, prosecutors said. According to court documents, both Youngblut and Baukholt were armed during the traffic stop. Youngblut exited the vehicle and opened fire, killing one of the agents, authorities said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We will not stand for such attacks on the men and women who protect our communities and our borders," acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department's Criminal Division said Thursday in a statement. According to The Associated Press, authorities have linked the shooting to the Zizians group, a cultlike group that consists of radical computer scientists focused on veganism, gender identity and artificial intelligence. They have been linked to six deaths in three states. Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? Hurricane Erin to hit Puerto Rico with heavy rain as it moves by the island LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) Local and state child protection advocates are warning about the growing threat of online exploitation. Longmeadow librarian arrested for child abuse material distribution The arrest of a middle school librarian in Longmeadow on child pornography charges has prompted a strong response from local advocates and the Massachusetts Childrens Alliance, urging community vigilance to protect kids online and in person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kathy Picard of Ludlow explains its a stark reminder that perpetrators of such heinous crimes can often be trusted adults and it might be difficult to know who may capable of such acts. itS alarming. You dont know he you know, hes not looking like a monster or somebody that would do that. But again, people look differently on the outside that are on the inside and you really need to protect your kids, said Picard. Picard, who was sexually abused by her step father from ages 7 to 17, emphasies the importance of breaking the silence and speaking up to protect vulnerable children. An estimated one of every ten children will be sexually abused before his or her 18th birthday. Often perpetrators will tell kids not to tell if theyre sexually abused but Picard advises parents and caregivers to tell kids its ok to, that their not going to get in trouble, and that they will help. She says kids can start to show signs like pulling back, not wanting to go to school or be around a certain person. If A child does approach you, they chose you. They feel safe to tell their story to, and you need to take time to listen to them. Not to be on your cell phone, but too eye contact is very important to engage.Let them know that you do care and youre listening to them. Youre not on your phone, said Picard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more than 25 years, Picard has been encouraging parents and caregivers to have open conversations with their children to empower them to speak up if they feel uncomfortable in any type of setting. She advises telling a child to come up with a safe word they can text to help them get out of the situation. In a public letter shared with 22News, Thomas M. King, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Childrens Alliance and Longmeadow resident, called the case troubling and deeply upsetting. He emphasized that protecting children begins with reporting suspected abuse. In Massachusetts, anyone can make a confidential report to the Department of Children and Families by calling the Child-at-Risk Hotline at 1-800-792-5200. For professionals such as teachers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement, reporting is also a legal requirement. King highlighted the work of the states Childrens Advocacy Centers (CACs), which provide child-focused, trauma-informed environments where young victims can share their experiences and receive coordinated support from law enforcement, child protection agencies, medical providers, mental health professionals, and victim advocates. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locally, the Family Advocacy Center at Baystate Medical Center serves Longmeadow and greater Hampden County and is recognized nationally for its comprehensive approach to supporting children and families. King also addressed the rising dangers children face online, noting that in 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received more than 36.2 million reports of suspected child sexual exploitation, including over 105 million images and videos. Reports of online enticement, including sextortion, exceeded 186,800 that year. In 2024, NCMEC reported a 1,325% increase in cases involving generative AI technology used to create or alter child sexual abuse material. Parents and caregivers can help reduce risks by teaching children safe online habits. King urged parents and caregivers to build strong digital safety habits at home, to make sure that any adult isnt afraid to have a conversation with their child, even if they dont understand what theyre doing, that they say, okay, I want you to be safe.I want to make sure that no matter what happens, you can come to me and have a conversation whether you get involved in an online conversation and it feels unsafe, or youre asked to do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, said Picard. Recommended Programs: NetSmartz by NCMEC Stop. Talk. Block. by Suffolk County CAC The Stop. Talk. Block. method: STOP the communication. BLOCK the person. TALK to a trusted adult. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King urged residents to contact their lawmakers in support of two bills: H.1634/S.1163, which would make it a crime for adults in positions of authority or trust to engage in sexual activity with minors under 18, and H.1593/S.1174, which would explicitly ban computer-generated child sexual abuse images including AI-created or digitally altered materials. While we can only mitigate the harm caused by those who abuse their position of trust, we can take decisive action and make a commitment to protect children, King wrote. By learning the signs, reporting concerns, using available resources, and supporting strong laws, we can build a safer future for every child in Massachusetts. More information about the Massachusetts Childrens Alliance and its work is available on their website. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. BELGRADE (Reuters) -Anti-government protesters demolished the offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in the northern city of Novi Sad and clashed with police and SNS supporters in the capital Belgrade on Thursday, a day after violent unrest left dozens injured. In Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city, police and SNS supporters loyal to populist President Aleksandar Vucic were absent as dozens of anti-government protesters smashed the windows of the party's offices, threw out furniture and SNS paraphernalia, and splashed paint across the entrance. "He's gone," protesters chanted in unison, referring to Vucic's 13-year-long rule. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Daily protests across Serbia, sparked by the deaths of 16 people when the roof of a renovated railway station in Novi Sad collapsed last November, have rattled the popularity of Vucic and the SNS. Similar protests were held in towns across the country. In Belgrade, hundreds of protesters and SNS supporters threw flares and firecrackers at each other on one of the city's main boulevards. Police in full riot gear charged the anti-government protesters in an effort to force them to move from the area, a Reuters witness said. Vucic pledged more arrests after the protests. "I think it is clear they did not want peace and Ghandian protests. There will be more arrests," he said in a live broadcast by Belgrade-based private Informer TV. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier on Thursday, Interior Minister Ivica Dacic said that 27 police officers and around 80 civilians were injured in Wednesdays clashes, and 47 people had been detained. Protesters have blamed corruption for the Novi Sad railway station disaster and are demanding early elections in hopes of ousting Vucic and his party. Students, opposition groups, and anti-corruption watchdogs have accused Vucic and his allies of ties to organized crime, using violence against political rivals, and suppressing media freedomsallegations they deny. (Reporting by Fedja Grulovic and Aleksandar Vasovic; Editing by Alistair Bell) CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Appalachian Asset Management wants to build about 1.3 million square feet of warehouse space on Ritner Highway. The company needs a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. The Big Spring Watershed Association is concerned about stormwater runoff from warehouse parking lots and roofs. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now WHTM Daily Digest There can be sediments and that is disturbed from the construction of such warehouses that can get into peoples wells, said Mark Spicka, association president. There can be various petrochemicals and other chemicals. Spicka said he hopes DEP puts protections in place like groundwater monitoring before and after construction. The Cumberland Valley has whats called limestone karst, Spicka said. The issue is with limestone, because it is so porous. Poorly or inadequately filtrated stormwater, once it gets into the limestone karst, can move very rapidly underground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Appalachian Asset Management told abc27 its team lives and works locally and is vested in protecting the water supply. We have provided additional testing, implemented design change and continued collaborative efforts to reflect our commitment to responsible development, the company said in a statement. West Pennsboro Township Manager and Codes Enforcement Officer Larry Barrick said the property has been zoned for industrial use since at least 2008. It is definitely bringing some tax money to the township, Barrick said. It would be good for the school for tax-wise with very little burden on the school district or the township itself because everything will be private ownership. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trish Bankes lives nearby and used to be involved in the fly fishing industry. She worries how runoff water could impact wildlife, drinking water, and more. Veolia releases cause of discolored water, offering credits Our infrastructure, our roads and such really do not support a lot of growth, Bankes said. The public hearing is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14, at Penn Township Volunteer Fire Company. DEP said it will listen to public comments before compiling and releasing a response. The public can also submit comments and view project documents on the agencys 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 ABC27. Regardless of the outcome of the Alaska summit, there is likely to be one winner at least in the short term. And that is Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. Here is why: A direct summit between the US and Russia flatters Moscow greatly. For ex-KGB spy man Putin, it brings back the glory days of the Cold War, when the Soviets were the economic and military equal of America. Nowadays, Russia has an economy smaller than that of Italy and, apart from its raw materials and nuclear weapons, its a declining, middling country. By meeting Trump as an equal, Putin can present himself as once again bestriding the global stage in a world where Russia, the US (and China) make the rules. Its a useful image for projecting influence, even if it flatters to deceive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The images that will come from Alaska will probably also help to reinforce the Russian regimes central propaganda lie: that Ukraine is neo-Nazi puppet of the corrupt West, and that Moscow is fighting a defensive war against Nato in Ukraine to stop an invasion of Russia. However deluded that sounds to us, the image of Putin and Trump negotiating over Ukraine reinforces it. Kyivs absence from the talks allows it to be painted as little more than a pawn. Its also important for Putin to avoid direct negotiations with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, given the Russians refusal to recognise Ukraine as an independent nation. That Ukrainians overwhelmingly want their own state and reject Russian rule is not something that Putin cares to contemplate. For him, Ukrainian identity is a fake construct, a form of false consciousness created by the enemies of Russia to divide the unity of the eastern Slavs. That is why Putins regime steals and indoctrinates children from the occupied Ukrainian territories to reprogramme them. Putin is avoiding direct negotiations with Volodymyr Zelensky - Ben Stansall/ 2025 PA Media, All Rights Reserved The optics of this meeting will cause nervousness in Western capitals, too. Putin still clearly believes that he can separate a Trump-led US from the UK and Europe. One long-term aim of the Kremlin, through this and previous regimes, has been to break the transatlantic link. The more that Putin can improve ties with Trump or indeed with some European leaders the more questions there will be over the unity of Nato, the bedrock of global security since the Second World War. Any fracturing of that alliance will be especially bad for nations such as the UK, which will bear the brunt of future Russian hostility. The Alaska optics should especially worry Ukraine. It hurts their cause to see others decide their fate. Putin may use Trumps understandable desire for peace to encourage the US president to press Ukraine into a humiliating surrender, giving up as yet unconquered land, which will in turn undermine Ukrainian cohesion. Russia would then try to use non-military tools of conflict to destabilise Ukraine, until such a time as it can attack the country again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has three aims in his remaining years: to re-create Russia as a virulently anti-Western nation, to destroy Ukraine, and to break the credibility of Nato. He has achieved the first, he is working on the second, and will try to achieve the third at some point. In this context, Putin does have some work to do at this summit. He probably realises that he has overplayed his hand with Trump in recent months, manipulating and mocking in equal measures. He may conclude that continuing talks will help undermine Western cohesion and Ukrainian morale, while his soldiers make modest gains on the battlefield. To that end, he may hint at a deal or at least agree to discuss parameters for future negotiations to give the US president a tangible outcome. But we should remember that, in the Kremlins school of negotiation tactics, ceasefires and talks are used as much to weaken the will of ones adversaries as to achieve a lasting peace, and that in Russian military doctrine, non-military tools of conflict are as important as military tools. If Putin can use diplomatic and psychological tactics to achieve the victories that his soldiers have failed to win, he will do so. If he can pocket the same diplomatic victories as Stalin managed over the naive West in Yalta at the end of the Second World War, he will take them. So, while this summit may be part of Trumps peace plan and we should recognise that he is at least trying to bring this war to an end it is also probably part of Putins war plan. Putin wants to destroy an independent Ukraine. He continues to show determination and patience in achieving that goal, even if his tactics change. Dr Bob Seely is the author of The New Total War, From Child Abduction to Cyber Attacks and Drones to Disinformation Russias Conflict with Ukraine and the West 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. Russian leader Vladimir Putin is preparing "historical materials" for a meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska to prove that Ukraine is an "artificial state". Source: Ukraine's Center for Countering Disinformation Quote: "The centre has received information from intelligence that Russian leader Vladimir Putin is preparing certain 'historical materials' for a meeting with US President Donald Trump. These are geographical maps that, in Putin's mind, should prove to Trump that Ukraine is a supposedly 'artificial state' formed out of the territories of other countries. This is supposed to justify the Kremlin's military aggression against Ukraine and Russia's claims to Ukrainian territories." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: The centre emphasised that such an approach to the history of countries is unacceptable from the point of view of international law, which clearly states the principles of territorial integrity, inviolability of borders and the illegality of the use of force or threat of force. Quote: "Most modern countries or parts of them were part of other states in the past. This also applies to the current Russian Federation, which was once part of the Golden Horde, and many of the current territories of the Russian Federation in the past belonged to other states Germany, Sweden, Finland, etc. So no historical facts, and even more so pseudo-historical fantasies, can be the basis for territorial claims and do not justify armed aggression against other countries." Background: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and allies hope that an immediate ceasefire will be the main topic of the meeting in Alaska between Trump and Putin. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that territorial issues "will not be negotiated" by anyone except Zelenskyy. Media reports also indicated that "Trump said it's Vladimir and Volodymyr who have to discuss territories with each other, not him". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin are heading to Alaska to discuss the possibility of a negotiated end to the war in Ukraine, but some observers fear that the Russian president isnt bothered about making peace. They assess that Russia is prepared to fight indefinitely, with Putin believing that he can outlast Ukraine in terms of weapons and manpower. As a former US intelligence officer, specialising in Putins thinking and Russias war-fighting strategy, I participated in dozens of wargames, simulating conflicts similar to the one in Ukraine, in which US/Nato forces eventually intervened. When leading the Red Team (Russian forces) comprised of Russia analysts from across the intelligence community against the Blue Team (US/Nato forces), my colleagues and I ran our campaign just as we assessed the Russian president and his military would. Based on that experience, here is what I consider to be Putins decision calculus. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He is unlikely to think that he needs to fight indefinitely. Instead, he may have determined that he only has to fight long enough to inflict what Russian military planners call unacceptable damage to both Ukraines combat potential and to the morale of the countrys troops and civilian population. The result would be Ukraines capitulation. Based on the calculations of the Russian General Staff, Russias significant advantage in combat potential over Ukraine even when including military assistance from the US and Europe and its historically-proven tolerance for casualties, will enable Moscow to outlast Kyiv and its Western supporters. From the intelligence standpoint, this rationale has its logic. In terms of combat potential a combination of the size of a countrys weapons stockpile, the size of its armed forces, its ability to mobilise additional troops, its military-industrial capacity to scale up production of weapons, and its will to fight Ukraine is outmanned, outgunned, and overly reliant on the West economically and militarily. Its will to fight also appears to have been eroded. Despite having lowered the minimum conscription age in 2024 from 27 to 25, and allowing men over 60 to enlist in the military, Ukraine is in a manpower crisis, with the average age of a Ukrainian soldier reportedly having reached 45. Ukraine faces critical shortages in key weapon systems and ordnance, forcing it to ration its ammunition, especially artillery shells. Russias disproportionate advantage over Ukraine in artillery shell use 44,500 vs 14,600 in the summer of 2024, according to one estimate has hindered the Ukrainian military from fighting effectively and appears to have drained its troops morale. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supplies from the US and Europe are not endless, either, because their respective arsenals have also been depleted. In July, the Pentagon even ordered a temporary pause on deliveries of munitions to Ukraine. The Pentagon apparently deemed it crucial to conserve its stockpiles of Patriot interceptors, Howitzer munitions, Hellfire missiles, GMLRS precision-guided missile systems, Stingers, AIM air-to-air missiles and grenade launchers. The fact that some deliveries were rapidly restored does not mean the stated rationale for the pause was incorrect. Indeed, the Pentagon must maintain a sufficient weapons arsenal to meet the requirements of its geographical combatant commands, which are responsible for military operations in their respective areas of responsibility. Each of these commands keeps war plans on the books for likely future conflicts and these plans must be resourced with the necessary munitions to prosecute a successful campaign. Having strained the US stockpile significantly, due to its extremely high burn rate of munitions (at least by Western standards), Ukraine cannot count on years of additional arms shipments. With the threat of China looming large, theres grave concern among US military planners that the US would probably fail at any future intervention. According to the 2024 report by the Commission on the National Defence Strategy, the US military lacks both the capabilities and the capacity required to be confident it can deter and prevail in combat. In a great power conflict with Beijing, it warned that the US would likely run out of munitions in three to four weeks, with some weapons systems lasting only a few days. The same report assessed that the US military was inadequate for a multi-theatre conflict to defend the homeland and tackle simultaneous threats in the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. More alarmingly, US industrial production is grossly inadequate to provide the equipment, technology, and munitions needed today, let alone for future conflicts. In contrast, Russia, having moved onto a wartime footing seven years prior to the invasion of Ukraine, is now believed to be producing more ammunition in three months than Europe in one year. Putin has also increased the size of Russias armed forces, to ensure that they can fight until the last Ukrainian. Given the current level of attrition of Ukraines manpower and munitions and the Wests limited ability to restock supplies, Putin highly likely believes that Ukraine and the West are nearing the point of unacceptable damage, eventually compelling them to abandon the fight. A recent Gallup poll revealed that 69 per cent of Ukrainians now favour a negotiated end to the war with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While both Russia and Ukraine have suffered tremendous losses thus far, with a population three times larger, Russia is better placed to fight a multi-year war of attrition. Russias fear of a US-Nato intervention on the battlefield in Ukraine is likely to be mitigated by the assessment that neither the Americans nor Europeans, culturally or psychologically, would be willing to sustain the scale of human loss required for this type of land war of attrition. Indeed, its hard to imagine Western leaders summoning up the political will to throw their troops into the meat grinder of an adversary whose centuries-old way of war centres on out-suffering and outlasting its opponent. Having lost millions of people in the Second World War, Russians believe they have a much higher pain tolerance. War-gaming has suggested that, in a large-scale war with a near-peer adversary, such as Russia and China, the US and its allies would suffer thousands of casualties in the first few weeks of the conflict. With 24,000 casualties incurred each month, as assumed by US Army doctrine, the US military would have to almost immediately request reauthorisation of the draft to ensure it had sufficient manpower to sustain the war, according to US military planners. The idea of returning to conscription remains unthinkable for many Europeans and Americans, and could be political suicide for Western leaders. In contrast, Putin has been mobilising overtly and covertly throughout this conflict and will almost certainly approve a bill recently submitted to the State Duma, introducing year-round conscription for military service. Putin is highly unlikely to make any concessions to Trump in Alaska. My assessment is that he firmly believes Moscow holds the upper hand. While Trumps goal is to stop the killing in Ukraine, Putins likely goal is to appear next to the leader of the free world, demonstrating not only that Russia is not as isolated as the West thinks, but is an equal to America. Without a thorough understanding of Putins Playbook, Trumps art of negotiating will not produce the deal. Rebekah Koffler is a strategic military intelligence analyst, formerly with the US Defense Intelligence Agency. She is the author of Putins Playbook, Regnery 2021. Her next book Trumps Playbook will be published later this year. Rebekahs podcast Trumps Playbook is running on her channel Censored But Not Silenced and is available on most social media platforms @Rebekah0132 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. Russias Vladimir Putin launched a charm offensive a day before his arrival in the US to meet President Donald Trump. Putin praised Trumps energetic and sincere efforts to stop the war in Ukraine, while trying to dilute the focus of Fridays peace talks by showing interest in discussing other issues like trade and arms control, The New York Times wrote. Even as Trump pushes Putin to agree to a ceasefire at the Alaska summit, he has downplayed expectations of a swift breakthrough. No matter the outcome, the Russian president has succeeded in redrawing the global security order, The Washington Post wrote, as Trump and Putin revive a great-power system in which a few big countries call the shots. Russian President Vladimir Putin signalled on Thursday that Moscow could agree to new arms control treaties - but only if the war in Ukraine is resolved. His comments came, according to the Kremlin, during a preparatory meeting for his one-on-one talks with US President Donald Trump, set for Friday in Anchorage, Alaska. Putin said Washington was making "quite energetic and sincere efforts" to end the fighting in Ukraine and reach agreements "in the interests of all parties involved." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This, he added, could create long-term conditions for peace in Europe and globally "if we move to the next stages of agreements in the field of strategic offensive arms control." By "strategic offensive arms," Putin was referring to intercontinental nuclear weapons. Nearly all nuclear arms agreements between Washington and Moscow have now lapsed or been abandoned, leaving the sector largely unregulated. Putin has been waging a full-scale war against Ukraine for almost three and a half years. Trump has said he wants to end the conflict, though it remains unclear how he would persuade the Kremlin to do so. Putin's foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov said the summit would focus mainly on the Ukraine war but would also address other issues. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that the U.S. administration was making "sincere efforts" to resolve the conflict in Ukraine and suggested Moscow and Washington could reach a deal on nuclear arms control. Speaking at a Kremlin meeting with Russia's most senior military and civilian officials, Putin said that he was informing them of the state of play in negotiations on Ukraine with the United States, and bilateral talks with Kyiv. "I would like to tell you about the stage we are at with the current American administration, which, as everyone knows, is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the fighting, end the crisis, and reach agreements of interest to all parties involved in this conflict," Putin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin said the discussions with the United States were aimed at creating "the longterm conditions of peace between our countries, in Europe, and in the world as a whole, if we reach agreements in the field of strategic offensive arms control in the next stages." Putin is due to hold a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska on Friday. Russia and the United States have by far the biggest arsenals of nuclear weapons in the world. The last remaining pillar of nuclear arms control between the two countries is the New Strategic Arms Reduction (New START) treaty, which is due to expire on February 5, 2026. (Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Guy FaulconbridgeEditing by Andrew Osborn) Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the Trump administrations energetic efforts to stop the war in Ukraine and hinted that Moscow and Washington could strike a deal on nuclear arms control during their summit on Friday in Alaska. In his first public comments since US President Donald Trump announced the Alaska summit, Putin on Thursday chaired a meeting of senior Russian officials at the Kremlin to brief them on the state of play in negotiations with the US on Ukraine. The current American administration is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict, Putin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his brief remarks, Putin said the summit with the US aims to create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, as well as in Europe, and in the world as a whole. He suggested this broader peace can be achieved if, in the next stages of discussions with the US, we reach agreements in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons. Although it was not clear what kind of deal Putin referred to, most strategic weapons treaties between the US and Russia have covered nuclear weapons, or nuclear-capable missile systems. The US and Russia agreed to limit their arsenals of nuclear arms under the New START treaty, which came into force in 2011. Under the agreement, both countries had seven years to meet defined limits on the number of deployed intercontinental-range nuclear weapons they can have. The treaty, however, is due to expire in February 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a sign of unease between the two countries, Trump this month said he ordered two nuclear submarines to be strategically positioned near Russia, in response to what he said were highly provocative remarks by Dmitry Medvedev, Russias former president and the current deputy chairman of its Security Council. Medvedev is prone to erratic outbursts on social media often raising the specter of nuclear conflict but Trump said he made the decision in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that. Hes going to make a deal Trump said Thursday that he believes Putin is going to make a deal to end the war in Ukraine during the talks. I believe now hes convinced that hes going to make a deal. Hes going to make a deal. I think hes going to, the US leader said during an appearance on Fox Radios The Brian Kilmeade Show. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said he hopes to broker a second meeting, which would include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Three different locations are on the table including the possibility of staying in Alaska, Trump told Fox Radio. The second meeting, which Fridays talks will aim to set up, would be the more important meeting, Trump said in the Oval Office later Thursday. Were going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe well bring some of the European leaders along, maybe not, he said. Also on Thursday, Yury Ushakov, Putins foreign policy aide, shared more details about the plans for Fridays summit, saying the presidents will first have a one-on-one conversation, with the help of interpreters, before continuing talks over a business lunch. The aide said the talks will focus on the war in Ukraine, as well as the prospects of cooperation between Russia and the US in trade and economic issues. After the talks, the presidents will hold a joint press conference, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump, however, told Fox Radios Brian Kilmeade that he could decide to have a solo press conference if the meeting doesnt end well. Im going to have a press conference. I dont know if its going to be a joint. We havent even discussed it. I think it might be nice to have a joint and then separates, he said, adding that if the meeting doesnt end well, Ill just have a press conference and head out. Ill head back to Washington. Ushakov will be one of five members on Russias negotiating team, along with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov and Kirill Dmitriev, a senior negotiator and head of Russias sovereign wealth fund. Ukraine and Europe have not been invited to Fridays summit, raising fears Kyiv could be forced into unwanted concessions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Desperate to get Trumps ear one last time before he sits down one-on-one with Putin, European leaders on Wednesday held a call with the US president. The Europeans struck a cautiously 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. CNNs Betsy Klein, Aileen Graef and Adam Cancryn contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Russian leader Vladimir Putin has summoned senior leadership for a meeting to discuss the progress of the talks ahead of his meeting with US President Donald Trump in Alaska. Source: Kremlin-aligned Russian news agency Interfax; video by the Kremlin Details: Putins spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Putin "held a meeting at the highest level with members of Russia's senior leadership, as well as representatives of the government and presidential administration". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kremlin released images from the beginning of the meeting. They show Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, former defence minister Sergei Shoigu, current Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, General Staff Chief Valery Gerasimov, and other senior officials. Screenshot Screenshot Screenshot Putin said before the meeting that he would inform them about "the negotiation process on the Ukrainian crisis [as the Russian propaganda machine calls the war against Ukraine ed.], how the negotiations are going in a bilateral format with the Ukrainian delegation". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "And the second thing to be discussed is our current stage with the US administration, which is taking very active and sincere measures to stop the fighting and reach agreements that are interesting for all parties to the conflict," Putin said. Background: Yuri Ushakov, Putins foreign policy advisor, has reported that the meeting between Trump and Putin is scheduled for 11:30 on 15 August (22:30 Kyiv time). Five other Russian representatives will fly to the US with Putin. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russian President Vladimir Putin said Thursday that President Trump was making energetic and sincere efforts toward peace in Ukraine, according to a report. A readout from the Kremlin, which NBC News obtained and translated, said Putin brought together advisers Thursday to discuss ceasefire negotiations ahead of his upcoming meeting with Trump in Alaska. The Russian leader then said the Trump administration was making quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the fighting, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict, NBC News reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and Putin will meet at a U.S. military base outside of Anchorage, Alaska, Friday afternoon. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday that the duo will host a joint press conference after the meeting. In recent days, the president has sought to temper expectations surrounding the meeting, framing it as a chance to possibly set up a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss ending the more than three year war. Still, on Wednesday, Trump blasted news outlets for unfair coverage of his upcoming meeting with Putin, arguing that he anticipates criticism from the media no matter if a good deal comes out of the summit or not. The president noted the networks promoting quotes from former officials-turned-critics, including former national security adviser John Bolton, who has called the summit between the American and Russian leaders in Alaska as a great victory for Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 said on his Truth Social website. Whats that all about? We are winning on EVERYTHING. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Dmitry Antonov and Mark Trevelyan MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that the United States was making "sincere efforts" to halt the war in Ukraine and suggested Moscow and Washington could agree a nuclear arms deal as part of a wider effort to strengthen peace. Putin was speaking to his most senior ministers and security officials on the eve of a summit in Alaska with U.S. President Donald Trump, who is pressing for an end to the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said in televised comments that the U.S. was "making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict". This was happening, Putin said, "in order to create long-term conditions for peace between our countries, and in Europe, and in the world as a whole - if, by the next stages, we reach agreements in the area of control over strategic offensive weapons." His comments signalled that Russia will raise the issue of nuclear arms control as part of a wide-ranging discussion on security when he sits down with Trump in Anchorage for the first Russia-U.S. summit since June 2021. Russia and the United States have by far the biggest nuclear arsenals in the world. The last remaining treaty between them that limits the numbers of these weapons is due to expire on February 5 next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The New START treaty covers strategic nuclear weapons - those designed by each side to hit the enemy's centres of military, economic and political power - and caps the number of deployed warheads at 1,550 on each side. Both are likely to breach that limit if the treaty is not extended or replaced. In a symptom of nuclear tensions between the two sides, Trump this month said he had ordered two U.S. nuclear submarines to move closer to Russia because of what he called threatening comments by former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev about the possibility of war between the two countries. The Kremlin played down the move but said "everyone should be very, very careful" with nuclear rhetoric. Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov said earlier that Putin and Trump will also discuss the "huge untapped potential" for Russia-U.S. economic ties, as well as the prospects for ending the war in Ukraine. Ushakov told reporters that the summit would start at 1930 GMT, which would be 1130 a.m. local time in Anchorage, with the two leaders meeting one-on-one, accompanied only by translators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said delegations from the two countries would then meet and have a working lunch, and the presidents would give a joint news conference. Ushakov said it was "obvious to everyone" that Ukraine would be the focus of the meeting, but broader security and international issues would also be discussed. He added: "An exchange of views is expected on further developing bilateral cooperation, including in the trade and economic sphere. I would like to note that this cooperation has huge, and unfortunately hitherto untapped, potential." Ushakov, who is Putin's foreign policy adviser, said the other members of the Russian delegation would be Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov and Kirill Dmitriev, Putin's special envoy for investment and economic cooperation. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov and Moscow bureau, writing by Mark Trevelyan, editing by Philippa Fletcher) US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will travel to Friday's summit in the US state of Alaska with contrasting priorities as they prepare for talks on ending Russia's war in Ukraine. Putin has been consistent on his desire to win Ukrainian territory, while Trump has made no secret of his desire to act as a global peacemaker. But both men may also sense other opportunities, such as diplomatic rehabilitation on the world stage on the part of Putin. Second-guessing Trump's aims is harder, as he has recently made vacillating statements about his Russian counterpart. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a fuller look at what the two leaders might want from the meeting. Putin eyes international recognition... and more By Russia editor Steve Rosenberg The first thing Putin wants from this summit is something he's already been given. And that's recognition. Recognition from the world's most powerful country, America, that Western efforts to isolate the Kremlin leader have failed. The fact that this high-level meeting is happening is testament to that, as is the joint press conference that the Kremlin has announced. The Kremlin can argue that Russia is back at the top table of global politics. "So much for being isolated," crowed the tabloid Moskovsky Komsomolets earlier this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not only has Putin secured a US-Russia summit, but a prime location for it. Alaska has much to offer the Kremlin. First, security. At its closest point, mainland Alaska is just 90km (55 miles) from Russia's Chukotka. Vladimir Putin can get there without flying over "hostile" nations. Second, it's a long way - a very long way - from Ukraine and Europe. That sits well with the Kremlin's determination to sideline Kyiv and EU leaders, and deal directly with America. There's historical symbolism, too. The fact that Tsarist Russia sold Alaska to America in the 19th Century is being used by Moscow to justify its attempt to change borders by force in the 21st Century. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Alaska is a clear example that state borders can change, and that large territories can switch ownership," wrote Moskovsky Komsomolets. But Putin wants more than just international recognition and symbols. He wants victory. He's been insisting that Russia keep all the land it has seized and occupied in four Ukrainian regions (Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson) and that Kyiv withdraw from the parts of those regions still under Ukrainian control. For Ukraine this is unacceptable. "Ukrainians will not give their land to the occupier," says the country's president, Volodymyr Zelensky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Kremlin knows that. But if it secures Trump's support for its territorial demands, the calculation may be that rejection by Ukraine would result in Trump cutting all support for Kyiv. Meanwhile, Russia and the US would get on with boosting relations and developing economic cooperation. But there is another scenario. Russia's economy is under pressure. The budget deficit is rising, income from oil and gas exports falling. If economic problems are pushing Putin to end the war, the Kremlin may compromise. For now, there's no sign of that - with Russian officials continuing to insist that Russia holds the initiative on the battlefield. Trump seeks chance to claim progress toward peace Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher Trump famously promised during his 2024 presidential campaign that ending the Ukraine war would be easy and that he could do it in a matter of days. That promise has hung over the American president's efforts to resolve the conflict, as he has alternated between frustration with the Ukrainians and the Russians since returning to the White House in January. He harangued Zelensky at a dramatic White House meeting in February, and later temporarily suspended military aid and intelligence sharing with the war-torn nation. In recent months, he's been more critical of Putin's intransigence and willingness to attack civilian targets, setting a series of deadlines for new sanctions on the Russians and other nations that do business with them. Last Friday was the most recent deadline, and as with all the ones before it, Trump ultimately backed away. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now he's hosting the Russian president on American soil and talking about "land-swapping", which Ukraine fears may consist of land concessions in exchange for peace. So, any discussion about what Trump wants during his Friday talks with Putin is muddied by the president's vacillating statements and actions. This week, Trump has made a concerted effort to lower the expectations for this meeting - perhaps a tacit acknowledgement of the limited possibilities of a breakthrough with only one party in the war present. On Monday, he said the summit would be a "feel-out" meeting. He suggested that he would know if he could reach a deal with the Russian leader "probably in the first two minutes". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I may leave and say good luck, and that'll be the end," he added. "I may say this is not going to be settled." On Tuesday, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reinforced this message, calling the summit a "listening session". But by midweek, he was once again talking up the prospects of a deal, saying that he thinks both Zelensky and Putin want peace. With Trump, it's often best to expect the unexpected. And Zelensky and European leaders spoke to him on Wednesday in an effort to ensure that he doesn't strike a deal with Putin that Ukraine won't - or can't - accept. One thing has been clear practically all year, however: Trump would welcome the chance to be the man who ends the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his inaugural address, he said he wanted his proudest legacy to be that of a "peacemaker". It is no secret that he longs for the international recognition of a Nobel Peace Prize. In the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump boasted of all the global conflicts he feels he has successfully resolved since taking office in January. But when asked about the war in Ukraine, he offered a rare acknowledgement of the challenge he now faces. "I thought the easiest one would be this one," he said. "It's actually the most difficult." Trump is not one to get bogged down in details. But if there is an opportunity for him to claim that he has made progress toward peace during the talks in Anchorage, he will take it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin, always a savvy negotiator, may seek a way to let Trump do just that on Russia's terms, of course. Follow BBC's coverage of the war in Ukraine 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What to know about the Putin-Trump summit in Alaska 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 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 Russias 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. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a press conference during his visit to Vienna, Austria, on June 16. (Heinz-Peter Bader/AP) 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. A 13-year-old girl from Queens was killed in a jet ski crash in South Florida while celebrating her eighth grade graduation, her family said. Rachel Aliza Nisanov was publicly identified Wednesday as the victim of the crash in Fort Lauderdales Intracoastal Waterway, the Miami Herald reported. Nisanov was riding on a jet ski Tuesday piloted by her 16-year-old sister, Aviva, according to Miami NBC affiliate WTVJ. The girls father, Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, was on another jet ski and jumped in to save them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My father doesnt even know how to swim, the girls brother, Yonah, told Miami CBS affiliate WFOR. He jumped in. My sisters were unconscious. Their life jackets were on. They were lying flat, and my father jumped in and scraped up his hands, his feet and his back all over to save them. The family was on a guided jet ski tour when Aviva and Rachels watercraft jumped the wake of another vessel and crashed into a dock, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission told the Herald. The Nisanov family are prominent members of Queens Bukharian Jewish community, and Rachel spent all of her schooling years at Bnos Malka Academy, an all-girls yeshiva in Forest Hills, the Herald reported. The school runs from pre-K through eighth grade, and the trip to Florida was a surprise to congratulate Rachel on graduating. Rachels funeral was held Wednesday in Queens, while Aviva remained in critical condition at a hospital in Florida. Chloe Duplessis, the program manager for Colorado's racial equity study, stands in the History Colorado archives in Denver on July 21. (Delilah Brumer/Colorado Newsline) As History Colorado researchers enter the ninth month of work on a state-mandated racial equity study, they are analyzing the discrimination faced by and the contributions of Black residents, starting in Colorados mid-1800s territorial days and going through to the present. Existing documentation of such history is fragmented, but researchers are working to fill in the gaps, the studys leaders said during a Wednesday presentation at the Colorado Capitol to the Black Coloradan Racial Equity Study Commission. The commission was established in June 2024 and oversees the History Colorado study. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Being in this work really means being in this work, and while were finding all of these stories of heaviness, but also resilience, its crucial for us to really share this with the public, History Colorado Program Manager Chloe Duplessis said. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The three-year study focuses on the harms of racist practices, including those previously sanctioned by law, in areas like housing, banking, employment, education, health care and criminal justice. Duplessis and a team of researchers are conducting the study by poring over newspaper clippings and archives, interviewing longtime Black residents about their family histories and analyzing data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The study is very special in the sense that it is a historical study thats chronological, but its also very important because its kind of making history in its own way, Duplessis said. The study has uncovered that 10 leaders from the territory of Colorado owned slaves, including Territorial Gov. William Gilpin, several territorial legislators and two territorial Supreme Court justices. It has also found that dozens of former state lawmakers were raised in slave-owning families. Criminal justice is a central part of the study, and researchers have found that Black residents were disproportionately represented in the first 100 people arrested in Colorado history. Black Coloradans on death row were also more likely to experience botched executions, and some were executed just one to two days after being convicted, often without comprehensive trials. We tend to celebrate a lot of Black firsts in the civil rights era, in the 1960s, but there was an earlier point in time, when we had Black representation, and immediately after, there was this huge backlash and we didnt see representation until the middle of the 20th century. Rep. Jennifer Bacon, vice chair of the racial equity study commission Study leaders are also documenting the progress spurred by Black Coloradans. One focus of this work is the legacy of former Rep. Joseph Stuart, who was elected in 1895 as Colorados first Black state lawmaker. Stuart introduced a law that banned racial discrimination in public places and it passed. Several Colorado cities, however, did not comply with or enforce the law until decades later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We tend to celebrate a lot of Black firsts in the civil rights era, in the 1960s, but there was an earlier point in time, when we had Black representation, and immediately after, there was this huge backlash and we didnt see representation until the middle of the 20th century, said Rep. Jennifer Bacon, a Denver Democrat and the vice chair of the commission. But also, he is an example of what happens when you have Black representation, and I want to highlight that. Legislative recommendations to come The commission was established by Senate Bill 24-53. The law did not come with any state budget allocation. Instead, the study derives its funding through grants, foundations and donations. The study will cost a total of $1.8 million, and more than $1 million has already been raised. The commission will make legislative recommendations based on the studys findings, once it is complete in 2027. During the Wednesday meeting, several commissioners and members of the public reflected on their experiences as Black Coloradans. I am the 55th Senate president in the state of Colorado, and if you have a chance to stop by the Senate presidents hallway inside of this building, you will see 53 portraits of individuals who are not Black, said Colorado Senate President James Coleman, a Denver Democrat who chairs the commission. Every time I sit this in the presidents office, an office for each of those individuals at one point in time, I wonder what they would think about me being in there. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To applause, Duplessis responded, You are not sitting in their seat. That is your seat. Study leaders plan to host listening sessions providing opportunities for Colorado residents to share their experiences, input and questions in the fall. Sessions are scheduled for Denver on Sept. 13 and Pueblo on Oct. 4. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) SeaWorld San Diego is teaming up with Rady Childrens Hospital on Thursday to host a seaworthy experience of a lifetime for 12 young patients. The immersive Dolphin Interaction Program (DIP) allows patients of Rady Childrens Hospital San Diego to dive with bottlenose dolphins at the park, while learning facts and tidbits about the social aquatic mammals. San Diego Zoo Safari Parks Elephant Valley to open in 2026 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The young patients, who have undergone various treatments with some battling cancer, will get the opportunity to immerse themselves in an unforgettable experience as they will swim alongside and interact with the friendly dolphins of Dolphin Point, the parks exhibit, starting at 9 a.m. SeaWorld and Rady Childrens are no strangers to hosting the event, which began in 2007. The program was created by Joy Clausen Soto, a former SeaWorld dolphin trainer who survived her battle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma while undergoing treatment at a Childrens Hospital in Southern California. Other SeaWorld zoological team members also helped bring the program to fruition. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. This story has been updated to include comments from event speakers. Members of the Cincinnati's Black community gathered at Cincinnati City Hall on Aug. 14 to show support for city consultant Iris Roley. Roley, a prominent activist turned consultant for the city, was targeted by Cincinnati's police union after questioning and criticizing police officers. Roley has advised Cincinnati officials on police reform since 2022 and has worked to expose police misconduct since the 2001 shooting of 19-year-old Timothy Thomas by then-Cincinnati Police Officer Stephen Roach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police hosted a petition with more than 4,700 signatures urging the city to terminate its contract with Roley. The police union highlighted two body camera videos of Roley approaching officers on duty. In one video, she tells an officer that she's trying to work together with them to resolve a parking issue before the confrontation escalates and Roley says: "I don't have to do anything you say." In another video, she tells a man that he can file a complaint if an officer is mistreating him. 'We will stand for a sister who has always stood for us' Nearly 100 people gathered on the steps of City Hall to show support for Roley. Richard Hughes, a senior pastor at New Jerusalem Baptist Church in Carthage, said that far too often Black women have stood alone when they needed support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Well, that ends today," he said. "We Black men in the city of Cincinnati are here today to make a statement that we will stand for a sister who has always stood for us. We are standing in support of Iris Roley." Hughes said demands from the police union are an "attempt to evade accountability." He said politicians like Ohio Sen. Bernie Moreno, a Republican from Westlake, and Vice President JD Vance, who grew up in Middletown, are trying to justify increased police presence in U.S. cities in the name of public safety. "If public safety was the goal, then we must ask the question, where was the concern for public safety when Nazis were standing on a bridge in Lincoln Heights with machine guns?" Hughes said, referencing the March demonstration in which people displayed flags with swatstikas. The Evendale Police Department said at the time that while the protest was "very offensive," it was not unlawful. A statement from the department said after the demonstrators left on their own, police officers did not take any action. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hughes called for FOP President Ken Kober to rescind his comments calling for the city to terminate Roley's contract. Jesse Roley, Iris Roley's husband, praised her dedication to serving the community and pushing for police reform. "We can move around the city now that we didn't move around 25 years ago as a result of Iris," he said. Iris Roley attended the event, but did not make public comments. Scott Wartman and Cameron Knight contributed reporting. Regional politics reporter Erin Glynn can be reached at eglynn@enquirer.com, @ee_glynn on X or @eringlynn on Bluesky. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Black Cincinnati residents rally for Iris Roley after police petition HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) A rally planned in Tell City to protest the arrest of a Venezuelan woman by ICE has been canceled. Supporters say Rodriguez was detained by the agency and taken to the Grayson County, Kentucky Jail. They did not give an official reason for her arrest. Eyewitness News contacted ICE about the situation; however, they told us we would need to provide several pieces of information not accessible to the public or they could not provide information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters also say Rodriguez worked at a senior care facility in Tell City. The group responsible for the rally says a general protest against ICE will instead be held at noon Friday in Evansville. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW). WEST JORDAN, Utah (ABC4) The death row inmate scheduled to be executed in less than a month is running out of options. Today, Judge Matthew Bates issued an order denying Ralph Menzies petition to reevaluate competency. Menzies was convicted in 1988 for the 1986 aggravated murder, kidnapping, and robbery of Maurine Hunsaker. He was placed on death row, where he has remained for the last 37 years as appeals have been filed. Menzies was found competent for execution on June 9, 2025, but his attorneys filed to reevaluate his competency only days later, citing a significant decline in health due to his vascular dementia. Despite this petition, his execution was scheduled for Sep. 5, 2025, by firing squad. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Bates ruling today argued that Menzies and his attorneys had failed to meet his burden of proof that he is incompetent to be executed, citing that they had to prove there has been a substantial change of circumstances subsequent to the previous determination of competency only two months ago. PREVIOUSLY: Menzies attorneys petition to reevaluate competency ruling, cite significant decline in health Judges ruling denying evaluation In the order, Judge Bates states that he does see that Menzies has experienced a decline based on information from doctors and attorneys, but notes that this decline did not come after the previous competency ruling, but before it. The petition thus supports Menziess claim that his physical and mental difficulties have worsened over time. But his current difficulties are not substantially different from the difficulties he reported during his initial petition, Judge Bates wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Judge Bates explains that Menzies decline in health was not subsequent but rather occurred while the previous competency hearing was already in progress. He stated that Menzies attorneys decided not to supplement the previous evaluation with this evidence, but waited to write a petition after his competency ruling. Following Menzies petition for a reevaluation, the prosecution submitted 32 recordings of Menzies phone calls between May 7, 2025, and July 7, 2025. Judge Bates reviewed these calls and stated that there were signs he was struggling, such as entering incorrect PINs, being unable to say required phrases, and misdialing. Judge Bates also stated that the court was in agreement with Menzies attorneys that in the 13 out of 32 successful calls where he was able to speak with family, Menzies was less loquacious than in calls reviewed during the initial competency hearing. Despite noting that Menzies sounded weaker and more tired, Judge Bates stated that Menzies could still speak at a normal speed, ask questions, follow the conversation, and laugh at appropriate times. The judge ruled that nothing in the current phone conversations demonstrates a substantial change in his cognitive functioning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the ruling, Judge Bates states that Menzies successive petition into his competency does not raise a significant question about his competency to be executed. Menzies attorneys previously argued that Menzies did not understand why he was being executed, meaning it could be an unconstitutional execution. Despite a doctors affidavit that Menzies did not understand why he was receiving the death sentence on June 30, 2025, Judge Bates explained that he had already exhibited this lack of understanding previously in 2024 and before, meaning that he had not exhibited a significant decline since the competency evaluation. Menziess current responses do not raise significant questions about his competency but reinforce Menziess decades-long mindset that he did not commit murder and thus the government has no reason to execute him, Judge Bates wrote in the order. Judge Bates concludes that Menzies has not exhibited a significant decline since the competency ruling on June 6, 2025. He says that forgetfulness, an inability to concentrate, and a paucity of language do not amount to a lack of an ability to reach a rational understanding of the link between crime and punishment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With the denial of Menzies petition for a new competency evaluation, the death row inmates only option to prevent his execution next month is a ruling on his commutation hearing. If Menzies is granted a commuted sentence, his execution will be halted and he will be receive a life sentence without the possibility of parole. That commutation hearing in front of the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole started yesterday, and is expected to conclude Friday evening. LEARN MORE: Commutation hearing for Ralph Menzies, Utahs inmate on death row for over 3 decades begins Timeline in the competency ruling According to documents, on Feb. 13, 2024, the court ordered that all proceedings advancing toward execution are stayed pending the resolution of Meznies petition into competency. They canceled a hearing set later that month for the States application for an execution warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 67-year-old man has dementia, his defense citing a significant decline in May 2025. Last month, on June 6, Menzies was ruled competent for execution after 16 months of back-and-forth and competency hearings. Days later, on June 9, the State filed a motion to lift the stay on Menzies execution and hold a hearing for an application for an execution warrant on the soonest available date. On June 10, attorneys for Ralph Menzies filed an appeal to the Utah Supreme Court over the competency ruling. They state that despite a proper medical diagnosis of vascular dementia, Mr. Menzies has failed to demonstrate that he is competent to be executed. The following month, on July 7, Menzies lawyers filed a petition to the judge to hold a new competency evaluation. Attorneys requested that the court reevaluate Menzies competency based on his recent decline in health, including medical events like a major hypoxic episode. They argue that the filing of this petition mandates a stay on the execution proceedings, and that denying a stay would risk an unconstitutional execution. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. 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. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. LOGAN, Utah (ABC4) Drivers may be experiencing delays through Logan Canyon as ranchers drive cattle across the canyon, but due to construction, the cattle delays should be shorter then compared to previous years. Over 1,300 cattle are being moved from August 11 to August 15, and the U.S. Forest Service is asking drivers to slow down and be cautious between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., though there may also be stray cattle hanging around in the area at night. Madelyn Kunzler, one of the ranchers driving cattle, spoke to ABC4.com about why exactly theyre moving their cattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the time of year that the Logan Canyon Cattle Association moves about 13 head of cattle from our spring range, which is kind of the Right Hand Fork area, and were moving them over into the Tony Grove area, Kunzler explained. Cattle may cause delays in Logan Canyon in August They move them into new pastures so that the cattle can have new feed, and so that the environment can recover. It takes probably about five to six hours, just between gathering the cattle out of the different pastures and then actually trailing them, she said. Because of road closures due to construction, ranchers are not driving the cattle down the road like they normally would, Kunzler said. Instead, they will just be crossing the road about a mile south of Tony Grove. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It should be a very brief closure, 15 minutes at tops, Kunzler said, and those closures will happen between one and two p.m. The heat provides a struggle for cattle wranglers, and the cattle dont want to move. Think of it from a human point of view, we really dont want to go hiking at this time of day either, Kunzler said. So you get to the point where its getting hot, and they dont really want to move, as well as, you want to make sure that your cow has their calf, so we stop at times to let them pair up. Moving cattle through the back country is a challenge of its own. There is a lot of deadfall, Kunzler said, and so they have to maneuver the cattle around that and make sure that the cows stay together. Were doing our best, were trying to be efficient, and were trying to do whats best for the animals and for the ecosystem up here, so really patience and understanding that we really do want whats best for Logan Canyon, Kunzler said. She added that she hopes environmentalists and those who use these lands for recreation understand that these ranchers really do care for these lands. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) on Wednesday questioned disgraced socialite Ghislaine Maxwells recent prison transfer, as lawmakers press the Trump administration to release more files related to its probe of Jeffrey Epsteins sex trafficking case. Maxwell, who was convicted and sentenced to 20 years as Epsteins co-conspirator, was quietly transferred from a Florida prison to a lower-security prison camp in Texas earlier this month, according to the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The move comes as she is appealing her case to the administration and Supreme Court. It was practically instantaneous. And of course, that then speaks to the irregularity of the process leading up to it, Raskin said Wednesday on MSNBCs The Last Word. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Remember that this was preceded by the sacking of Maureen Comey, who was one of the senior prosecutors leading that prosecution, and they simply fired her, he continued. And then thats when [Deputy Attorney General] Todd Blanche decided to take matters into his own hands. Blanche, who formerly defended President Trump during criminal proceedings, met with Maxwell one-on-one in Florida for two days to discuss Epstein. The case resurfaced after the Justice Department (DOJ) and FBI released a joint memo last month finding the disgraced financier did not keep a client list. It also sought to dispel conspiracies around his 2019 death in a New York City jail cell, which has been ruled a suicide. Raskin suggested Blanche helped move Maxwell because he liked what he heard in the closed door meetings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So look, I think it seems pretty clear to the vast majority of Americans, as youre pointing out this evening, that Donald Trumps got one major interest in this whole affair at this point, which is burying any information that reveals the connection between him and Jeffrey Epstein, the Maryland Democrat said. We know that they had more than a thousand FBI agents working 24-hour shifts, looking for mentions of Donald Trumps name in the Epstein files and looking for photographs of him, video snippets of him, whatever it might be, he added. President Trump, following pressure from his base, ordered the DOJ to make transcripts of the five days of Epstein and Maxwells grand jury testimonies public and to ask the court to unseal exhibits related to the case. A judge days later denied the request. While Republican lawmakers left Washington earlier this summer to avoid the controversy, it is likely to ramp up once again when they return in September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The mother of a nine-year-old girl who died from hyponatraemia has lost a legal challenge to her condition not being formally recorded at inquest as "hospital-acquired". Raychel Ferguson, from Londonderry, was given a lethal dose of an intravenous fluid at Altnagelvin Hospital in 2001 after having her appendix removed and died later at the Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children A second inquest in December 2023 found that she had died of a cerebral oedema, or swelling in the brain, due to hyponatraemia, an abnormally low level of sodium in blood. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2018, the Hyponatraemia Inquiry, which examined the hospital deaths of five children in Northern Ireland, found Raychel's death was avoidable. At the previous inquest in December 2023, Coroner Joe McCrisken said her death was due to a series of human errors and not systemic failure. He outlined three causes of the hyponatraemia but said he was satisfied the "inappropriate infusion of hypotonic saline fluid... played the most significant part". Hyponatraemia is the term for a low level of sodium in the bloodstream, which causes the brain cells to swell with too much water. Raychel's mother Marie mounted a legal challenge to how the coroner had recorded the cause of her daughter's death, but that was dismissed on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She objected to the verdict not formally stating that the hyponatraemia was "hospital-acquired" and for not describing her daughter's vomiting as "severe and profuse". At the high court in Belfast on Thursday, a judge held that the coroner's inquest conclusions made it abundantly clear that Raychel's hyponatraemia was acquired when she was in hospital. "The detailed findings of the coroner are contained within a comprehensive and detailed verdict which is there for all to read," Mr Justice Kinney said. "There is no basis to say that it was irrational not to include such qualifying words in the cause of death." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Further claims of a failure to properly describe the extent of vomiting were also rejected. "The coroner did not discount or disregard the severity of Raychel's vomiting but clearly concluded that it was not relevant to his statutory task and was not a causative factor of the hyponatraemia," Mr Justice Kinney said. "In fact, the coroner went further than the applicant had argued at the inquest. "I am satisfied that the coroner's decision is neither unlawful nor unreasonable." Raychel was one of five children whose deaths over the course of eight years at the same hospital prompted a public inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2013, the Western Health and Social Care Trust, accepted responsibility for her death. The 14-year-long Hyponatraemia Inquiry was heavily critical of the "self-regulating and unmonitored" health service. In his report in 2018, Mr Justice O'Hara found there was a "reluctance among clinicians to openly acknowledge failings" in Raychel's death. He concluded that her death was the result of "negligent care". More on this story I was shopping in the Tesco Express on my local high street in south-east London at 1pm last Sunday afternoon when I saw a bald, white man in his 40s use his arm to sweep an entire shelf of medicines into a gym bag. He was completely brazen about it: he wasnt wearing a mask or hoodie to hide his face, he was in a bright-red tracksuit. What made it even more enraging was that the Tesco staff could see him and they didnt do a thing about it. They just stood there and watched, looking totally unbothered. I was passing the shoplifter as he started sweeping a second shelf of medicines into his bag and I couldnt stop myself: I loudly exclaimed: Really? It was almost a reflex I was so shocked and angry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was scared as well. Anyone whos bold enough to shoplift in broad daylight, in front of people, is clearly not afraid he might have had a knife and he could easily have stabbed me. Im not an idiot, I do know the dangers, but I couldnt help reacting. In fact, all it took was me saying that one word to make the guy leave. Although he didnt even try to run: he just sauntered towards the door and b-----ed off. Maybe I should have let it go, but the staffs level of aloofness really got to me. I started questioning them, asking: Are you seeing this? Why did you just stand there? Why didnt you say anything? One woman who works there was just as unbothered as the shoplifter. She shrugged and said: Oh, were not paid to confront thieves. She pointed out that theyve got CCTV, and she did say they would call the police later. Credit: Buckinghamshire Council Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when I asked Is this the new normal are you just going to smile and nod?, the staff started shouting at me, saying theyre not paid enough to deal with it. I do understand, and Im not expecting workers to rush in like Superman, but they didnt even address it. They just let it happen. As the staff were shouting, I thought: Where was this attitude when that thief was raiding your shop? I then said Well, what if I take my shopping and just leave without paying? and started walking towards the door, although obviously I came back and paid. Even more shocking, another customer (a man in his 50s with a long ponytail) then started screaming at me: Leave it, just leave it! He went purple in the face. He was furious that Id said anything to the staff he was angrier about that than about the shoplifter. I was completely stunned. I felt like I was going mad. Thats why Id said: Are you seeing this? I was half wondering if I needed to visit my GP and get my eyes tested! The staff made me feel as if I was the person in the wrong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This wasnt a one-off either. The previous Sunday afternoon, another man was trying to snatch food from the same store, saying something like: This Englishman is hungry. On that occasion the staff did tell him: Were recording this. He then ransacked the store for a few minutes, making a huge mess, although he didnt steal anything in the end. I called the police afterwards and they sounded totally unfazed, even bored. I offered to stay until they came and give a description of the man, or send them the photos Id taken of the mess, but they didnt take me seriously. The policeman said Nah mate, you get on home. The aftermath of a raid on displays and products in a Tesco store After the second incident, when Id confronted the shoplifter, I called Tesco headquarters. I explained that this might be happening on Sundays because for some reason they dont have a security person on the door on a Sunday on the other days of the week, the person in that role wears a yellow vest and a body cam. The woman at Tesco HQ said they would think about having a security person on Sundays, but she quickly added that they wouldnt physically stop a thief either, they would just record it. That seems insane to me. I used to feel a bit safer when the doorman was there, but now I know they cant actually touch the thief, I dont feel safe at all. (An official Tesco spokesman, contacted via their press office, says simply: The safety of our customers and colleagues is our absolute priority, and we have made significant investments to keep everyone across our business safe.) Ive also written to my local MP but Im not feeling hopeful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My question is: Whats next? I saw two incidents of shoplifting in two weeks, so will this start happening on a daily basis? The guy stealing drugs wasnt a desperate single mum taking a sandwich to feed her child I would help someone like that or a kid making a stupid mistake. This was a man old enough to know exactly what hes doing, and stealing that much medicine is worrying. Is he going to use it to make other drugs? Thats not just shoplifting thats a raid. On my way home, I actually saw the guy again. He was delivering some of his stolen goods to a woman in a house close to where I live. Thats terrifying. Ive lived in the neighbourhood for 10 years and its a lovely, family-oriented, village-type community. But this sort of incident is exactly how neighbourhoods go downhill. I worry it could become a hotspot for crime. There are some neighbourhoods we talk about with fear or disgust: I would be heartbroken if my area became like that. Im originally from Turkey, and Ive seen this first-hand: cities overrun with crime becoming terrible places to live. I know how this ends. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It upsets me that this is institutional. I worry this could become a hotspot for crime, and the police dont seem to care. I feel like Im on my own. I posted about my experience in my local Facebook group, and I was baffled by the responses. Lots of people were vehemently against confronting shoplifters. One woman told me to mind my own business. If you even mention the idea, you get labelled socially conservative and it becomes political. Just for saying youre against crime, really? The frustrating thing is that this affects all of us. It makes our neighbourhoods unsafe, and it puts up prices for paying customers. But everyone seems to have given up. If we do nothing, criminals become emboldened. Im sure theyll be back in that Tesco because they know the staff wont move a muscle. So why not steal the whole shelf? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I wont be there to see it, though. After this horrible experience, Im never going to Tesco again. As told to Marianka Swain 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. ABLE United Brand Ambassador Jenn Sikora and her son, Sean. (Photo courtesy Jenn Sikora) Jenn Sikora recalls the night in 2005 in her northern Virginia home talking with a group of parents of children with Down syndrome. They discussed ways they could help ensure their childrens future as they aged. Thats when one of the dads remarked that hed established a tax-advantaged savings plan for one daughters college education but wasnt sure what he could do to help his second daughter with Down syndrome through life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She might go into a postsecondary college program, she might need help with housing, or she might need assistance with transportation or with jobs, and I just dont know what that is. But, as a dad, I want to be able to provide for what her needs are later on, Sikora recalls the man saying. And thats really how ABLE got started. ABLE is the Stephen Beck Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience Act, which allows individuals with disabilities diagnosed before age 26 and their families to save up to $19,000 per year for future expenses. Congress approved it in 2014. In July 2015, Florida created ABLE United, a registered not-for-profit and direct support organization of the Florida Prepaid College Board. Sikora whose son, Sean, has Down syndrome had got to lobbying the issue immediately. She was a former staffer for U.S. Rep. Bill McCollum and wasnt reluctant to tackle tax policy. She also had connections. Her neighbor at the time was John Ariale, chief of staff to then-Jacksonville Republican U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So she pled her case to Ariale that parents of children with disabilities should be able to defer money into tax-free accounts to help cover their childrens needs as they aged. And, perhaps more importantly, the savings accounts shouldnt trigger the loss of Social Security income or Medicaid benefits when the children turn 18. We said, Look, we want to save for our kids, and we dont want to impact their benefit eligibility later on in life. What do you think?' Sikora told the Florida Phoenix. And [Ariale] said, I cant believe that youre not already able to do this. 14K, $130M ABLE United Director John Finch via subject. ABLE United announced Thursday that 14,000 account holders in Florida have saved a combined total of more than $130 million. The announcement coincides with the the second annual national ABLE Savings Day, created to raise awareness of this opportunity. Reaching $130 million in savings shows that Floridians are embracing ABLE accounts as a game-changing disability financial planning tool, said John Finch, director of ABLE United. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Finch estimates that represents about 3% of the individuals in Florida who could qualify for and have enough discretionary funds to invest in an ABLE account. The National Association of State Treasurers estimates that nationally more than 214,000 Americans with disabilities have collectively saved $2.6 billion in ABLE accounts. The accounts can be used for various expenses, such as assistive technology, education, housing, transportation, health care, and more. Enrollment is free, there are no monthly fees, and savings grow tax-free. More opportunities & more necessary With nearly $1 trillion in health care cuts looming in the next decade, mostly through Republican legislation slashing Medicaid, the savings accounts may prove more necessary than ever. Medicaid is a health care safety net for the poor, elderly, and disabled people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although the One Big Beautiful law makes those deep cuts in Medicaid and health spending, the new law also ups eligibility for ABLE accounts to age 46, effective Jan. 1, opening the program to military veterans, plus people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis or lupus, or who suffer from traumatic brain injuries or have been diagnosed with mental health disorders. We have a lot of work to do. And I think with this age adjustment, its going to help expand that, Finch said. Former Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities Executive Director turned lobbyist Jim DeBeaugrine said hard work isnt new for the Florida family members and advocates who have championed the ABLE accounts. Im especially proud of the role that Florida played in establishing this program nationally. Florida family members and self-advocates worked tirelessly behind the scenes for years in the hall of the U.S. and Florida capitols to make this program a reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sikora now lives in Orlando, far from the northern Virginia home where a cadre of parents initially met to discuss their special-needs children and how to best provide for them. Instead of lobbying on Capitol Hill, she is an ambassador for ABLE United. Ive been talking about ABLE accounts for so long. Its part of my DNA, she said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Its symbolic that Alaska has been chosen as the location for Vladimir Putin and Donald Trumps meeting on Friday to discuss Ukraine giving up occupied territory to Russia in the name of peace. In 1867, the U.S. bought Alaska from Russia, then a colony of the Tsar, for a measly $7.2 million (around $150 million today). Its as if whoever selected the location is suggesting theres nothing particularly dramatic for lines on maps to be redrawn, that you can swap parts of countries as if they were mere real estate. But this ignores something vitalpeople. Russias occupation of eastern parts of Ukraine isnt just a land-grab. Its aim is to wipe out independent Ukrainian identity; to re-define who the local people think and feel they are at the barrel of a gun. Its a vast project of enforced social engineering that takes us back to the Age of Empire, when colonizers imposed their will on conquered subjects. Its reminiscent of some of the darkest parts of the 20th century, when totalitarian dictatorships used terror to compel obedience on captured nations. If any deal brokered in Alaska ignores the rights of Ukrainians in occupied lands then it will legitimize the return of some of the most evil chapters of our history. So whatever happens Friday, its imperative to never normalize Russias occupation. Some of the crimes Russia commits are blatant violations of international law. A U.N. report looked at accounts of civilian detainees in Russian-occupied Ukraine and found that 90% had been tortured or ill-treated. Children have been executed. Believers outside the Kremlin-allied Moscow Patriarchate have been arrested, taken prisoner, tortured, and killed. Meanwhile, at least 19,546 children have been taken away from their guardians and familiesspirited away to Russia where they are taught to forget Ukraine. This enforced deportation has led to Putin being indicted for war crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read More: The Hidden War Over Ukraines Lost Children Such crimes are easy to define under international law. We can open criminal proceedings against the perpetrators. But just as insidious are the more subtle forms of coercion that often get overlooked by courts. The way, for instance, Russia threatens to deny basic services like heating to Ukrainians who dont take up Russian passports. Or how millions of people across Ukraineand not just in the occupied parts of the countryhave been forced to flee their homes because the conditions Russia created made it too frightening to remain. Such displaced people currently have no recourse to justice. This needs to change. They should be allowed to claim reparations. Or consider the process of indoctrination. Over 1 million children are at school in occupied Ukraine. The Russian curriculum they are forced to follow wipes out the centuries-long struggle for Ukrainian independence. It barely mentions the mass famine of Ukrainians in the 1930s that killed 4 million, and which many historians consider a genocide. Parents who refuse to send their children to pro-Russian schools are threatened with losing their parental rights, witnesses have told The Reckoning Project, the war crimes NGO I helped found. Possession of Ukrainian textbooks can even lead to five year sentences. While Ukrainian identity is suppressed, a militarized form of Russian imperialism is rigorously promoted in occupied Ukraine. Children are expected to attend military youth groups reminiscent of the Hitler Jugend. Here students learn to shoot, sing patriotic Russian songs, and express unconditional love to our holy Russian land and readiness to join the holy fight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian officials and activists label this process brainwashing, even cultural genocide. But none of these are crimes under international law. Thus we risk the perpetrators getting away with the ultimate purpose of Russias occupationerasing Ukrainian identity. In order to ensure Russia doesnt get away with that, lawyers at The Reckoning Project have made a submission to the U.N. that details how Russia is in breach of the Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights that guarantees parents the right to give children the education they choose. A U.N. submission is a small step in itself, but it helps create the basis for sanctioning officials and demanding damages from Russia. It should be seen as part of a web of justice that includes naming and shaming through media, online advocacy, pressure on private companies and public bodies, reparations, and other tools to ensure the whole system of Russian occupation is not normalized. All of this can also help show the world it can move on from the age of brutal imperial conquest and totalitarian thought control. Which brings us back to the Alaska Purchase. It is not just a symbol of how easily great powers can negotiate land swaps. Its a testimony to how colonial powers callously ignore the local population. When Russia occupied Alaska in the 19th century, it made serfs out of the local Indigenous tribes, forced them to hunt for furs, and raked in the profits. Missionaries pushed Native Americans to adopt Russian Orthodoxy. During the sale of Alaska, the rights of the majority Native Americans were ignored over Russian settlers. Following the U.S. takeover, racial segregation laws were erected and a system of devastating boarding schools created to split up Native American families. The analogy to occupied Ukraine is imperfect but in both cases children were barred from speaking their language or following their traditions. Russia makes no bones about its desire to bring back a new Age of Empire. Its propaganda revels in its desire to subjugate small European countriesand celebrates the idea America could soon join it to carve up the continent. It is encouraging that Trump has shown a greater willingness to criticize Putin and Russia in recent weeks. But the ultimate test will be the message Trump sends from Alaska. It will show which way the U.S. wants history to move. Contact us at letters@time.com. Pennsylvania House Minority Leader Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton) talks to reporters Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, after the Rules Committee voted on party lines to reject a GOP-backed budget Senate transit funding proposal. (Ian Karbal/Pennsylvania Capital-Star) This story was corrected on Aug. 13 at 8:47 p.m. to properly identify the minority chair of the House Appropriations Committee Six weeks after the constitutionally-mandated deadline for state lawmakers to deliver a budget, a standoff between the two chambers seems as intractable as ever. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And with no action, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) says theyll move forward with planned cuts to service later this month. The reductions could impact up to 800,000 people who use the transit system daily. House Democrats shot down a $47.6 billion budget proposal Wednesday that had cleared the GOP-controlled Senate late the night before by a party line vote, effectively prolonging the stalemate. The Senates proposal is about $3 billion less than the one that passed the House last month. The big differences include how to fund public education and different mechanisms for public transportation funding. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House Appropriations Committee Minority Chair Jim Struzzi (R-Indiana) described the GOP-backed budget as more or less a stop-gap, allowing school districts and safety net services to continue functioning. To Appropriations Chair Jordan Harris (D-Philadelphia), the proposal shows his Republican colleagues lack urgency, even as the threat of a prolonged standoff has community service providers and county officials scrambling. The only time you use numbers from last year is early on in the process, to move the process forward until you get an agreed upon number, Harris said. This is not something that you do a month-and-a-half after that. Literally last years numbers [thats] a spending plan that says, Were not serious. Gov. Josh Shapiro struck a more optimistic tone when speaking with reporters at Ag Progress Days in Centre County on Wednesday afternoon. The state Capitol building in Harrisburg. (Tim Lambert/Pennsylvania Capital-Star) I would not say that were far apart, Shapiro said. I spent a good bit of time last night with the leader of Democratic caucus, and I spent two hours this morning with the Senate Republican leader, Senator Pittman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were making progress, he added. I actually thought that the move yesterday in the Senate brought us closer, because what it did was it made clear that the Senate is committed to funding mass transit, which has been a priority of mine. House Minority Leader Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton), however, said Shapiro should get more involved with negotiations. Though Topper acknowledged urgency may be increasing, he said that no budget would be passed until lawmakers embrace a sense of reality Were getting a state budget when the realism sets in for everyone as to what the state can afford moving forward. The proposal rejected by House Democrats funneled $300 million in state gaming revenue to help prevent SEPTA service cuts and pay for road and bridge projects throughout the commonwealth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public transportation entities in rural, suburban and urban areas get money from the Public Transportation Trust Fund earmarked separately for operations and capital. Under the Senates plan from Tuesday, they could transfer some of those capital funds to pay for operations. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Absent a deal by Thursday, SEPTAs planning to reduce service by 20 percent starting Aug. 24. But according to General Manager Scott Sauer, the Republican-backed bill would not have staved off the cuts. The use of capital dollars for operating does not solve our problem, Sauer told the House Rules Committee Wednesday afternoon. It creates a new one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Namely, delaying crucial operating initiatives, he said. Among the projects that SEPTA says they fund with the money that would have gone to their operating budget, are a long-term train car modernization project. Some of their regional rail cars are more than 50 years old, and, according to Sauer, have led to fires and potentially unsafe conditions for riders. The multi-year replacement project is expected to cost around $1.8 billion over roughly 10 years, according to Sauer. The Senates proposal also called for increased fares unless theres =a waiver in line with the Consumer Price Index next year, in 2027 and then biannually. SEPTA and Pittsburgh Regional Transit would face more stringent accountability and performance requirements as well. A sign put up by SEPTA in the Fishtown neighborhood of Philadelphia notifying which services may be cut if state funding isnt approved to fund mass transit. (John Cole/Capital-Star) The bill has criminal justice components, too, including making the SETPA special prosecutor role permanent and cracking down on drug dealing and assaults on operators. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Transit funding under the latest House proposal would entail diverting another 1.75 percent of sales tax, which Republicans oppose. The two proposed budget plans differ on education, too, with the Senates proposal keeping funding at a flat rate. Specifically, it would distribute $500 million through a funding formula established last year to benefit underfunded school districts, after the Commonwealth Court found the previous funding method unconstitutionally inequitable. Democrats say that last years funding was only a first step towards remedying the situation, and that flat funding might run afoul of the courts ruling. They called for an additional $526 million in the House budget. Its unclear what will happen next, or when a budget will be ready. The House has scheduled Appropriations Committee meetings every day through the rest of the month, though its unlikely they will meet for them all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement House leaders and Shapiro have also said negotiations continue. But as it stands, both sides, while acknowledging theyll have to compromise, appear to be dug in for now. The longer the fight drags out, the more transit agencies in rural, urban and suburban areas, government services and county operations will face cuts, impacting Pennsylvanians and their communities Theres a willingness now, it looks like, in both chambers, to recognize the challenge, House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) told reporters. Now weve gotta fill in some of the blanks and realize not everyones going to get what they want. John Cole contributed to this report. ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) August is the month to recognize black businesses and how they contribute to our community. St. Joseph salon KD's Beauty Bar is owned by Dai'Janise Wilbon and Kanei Jackson. The two owners have exemplified the importance of being black business owners in their community, opening their business in May of 2024. There has been a misconception among some customers since the salon is a black-owned business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We thought you only serviced a certain community. It's like, 'No, we're here for everyone.' said Wilbon. Wilbon is right, the salon has a variety of services for all customers, from hair to nails; the salon truly does it all. On Monday, Australia joined a growing number of Western countries that say they will soon recognize a Palestinian state. That list includes France, the United Kingdom, and Canada, while other Western nations, including Norway, Spain, and Ireland, formally recognized a Palestinian state last year. The rhetorical shift indicates just how much Israel has isolated itself from even some of its allies as it continues its relentless assault on Gaza a horrific military campaign that has destroyed the enclave, starved the population, and killed more than 60,000 Palestinians, with experts and leading human rights organizations deeming Israels actions an ongoing genocide. Israel has denounced the move to recognize a Palestinian state as shameful. Responding to the UKs announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a post on X that such a move only rewards Hamass monstrous terrorism & punishes its victims. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed similar criticisms, saying that recognitions of a Palestinian state have emboldened Hamas and made it harder to achieve peace. But, if anything, the recent announcements are coming in a little late. The State of Palestine has already been recognized by 147 out of the 193 member states of the United Nations. Most notably, if France and the UK follow through and recognize Palestine, the US would be the only permanent member of the UN Security Council that doesnt recognize a Palestinian state adding international pressure on the US to change its position in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But just because theres widespread (and growing) recognition of a Palestinian state doesnt mean that Israels occupation will suddenly end. After all, Israel still occupies the West Bank and Gaza, continues to illegally build settlements in Palestinian territories, and has full military control between the river and the sea. And Israels recent announcement that it plans to seize Gaza City only deepens and perpetuates its occupation of Palestine. So what does recognizing the State of Palestine actually achieve? What it means to recognize a state Even though states exist all around us, there is no universally agreed upon definition of statehood. But under international law, one treaty the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, which went into effect in 1934 is often cited to outline the criteria that make up a state. The convention lists the following qualifications: (a) a permanent population; (b) a defined territory; (c) government; and (d) capacity to enter into relations with the other states. International law experts tend to agree that Palestine meets this definition. But even when states check these boxes, without widespread recognition, they would be limited in their ability to exercise their sovereignty or enter diplomatic agreements with much of the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, on a technical level, recognizing Palestine as a state is important. It allows Palestine to be party to various international treaties, like the Rome Statute, which established the International Criminal Court (ICC). Thats what allowed the ICC to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister, Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity. (Since Israel is not party to the Rome Statute, the ICC would not have had jurisdiction over any of the territories had the State of Palestine not signed on.) Recognition can also deepen diplomatic ties. States that recognize Palestine could open up full embassies in Palestine and allow Palestine to open up more embassies around the world. They would also have more obligations to stand up for Palestinian sovereignty when Israel violates international law, which means they would face more pressure (both domestically and internationally) to impose more diplomatic and economic sanctions on Israel. Ardi Imsies, an associate professor at Queens University Faculty of Law in Ontario, recently told The New York Times that recognizing a Palestinian state would provide a basis for a complete revision of bilateral relations with Israel. That means that states might have to review their agreements with Israel, both political and economic, to ensure that they do not impede on the Palestinian states rights and sovereignty. For example, if Israels trading partners recognize the state of Palestine and still import products manufactured in Israeli settlements in the West Bank, those states would be complicit in violating Palestines sovereignty according to their own acknowledgement of Palestinian statehood. Why the latest recognitions of statehood arent enough Recognizing a Palestinian state should be largely uncontroversial. By granting Palestine state recognition, these Western states would be in line with the two-state solution that they have been pushing for decades. The basic idea is to have two states one Palestinian and one Israeli represent two peoples, but negotiations have repeatedly failed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats in large part because the two-state solution, as supported by the United States and its allies, has always aimed for creating two unequal states, with Israel maintaining its economic and military dominance and Palestinians having a permanent quasi-state thats not fully sovereign or independent. And thats exactly whats happening with these new recognitions of Palestine, with Western states putting strict conditions on what a Palestinian state looks like, including requirements like not having a military. (The recent plans to recognize a Palestinian state have also not articulated where its borders would be, which ultimately make it harder to establish and defend Palestinian sovereignty.) What does this two-state solution look like? said Alonso Gurmendi Dunkelberg, an international law scholar at the London School of Economics. A demilitarized state, with Israeli control over national security in Palestinian territory, subjected to future negotiations on boundaries. By and large, these countries recognition of a Palestinian state fall far short of a tangible step towards establishing a full-fledged, sovereign nation. The UK, for example, said it would recognize a Palestinian state only if Israel fails to secure a ceasefire. That means that if a ceasefire does take hold, the UK will simply go back to the status quo of not recognizing Palestine. That does not indicate any real movement toward recognizing Palestinians right to self-determination. If these Western states want to have a real impact and put meaningful pressure on Israel, then they have to go beyond just recognizing a vague, demilitarized Palestinian state. Their recognition of Palestine would be much more forceful if it is immediately coupled with coordinated sanctions on Israel, since it is violating another nations sovereignty. There should also be fewer conditions that hamper Palestinians right to self determination and stronger commitments to ensuring equal rights for Palestinians, whether they live in Israel, Palestine, or a future state that encompasses the whole territory. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The recent wave of states recognizing Palestine is doing little more than offering a gesture toward establishing two unequal states, with Israel continuing to have much more control and autonomy over territory than the Palestinians. So will the underlying dynamic between Israel and Palestine shift under this set up of recognition? No it wont, Gurmendi Dunkelberg said. The underlying problem of colonialism, the underlying problem of apartheid, the underlying problem of a supremacist ideology that sees Palestinians as an inconvenient people that will still be there. Why are countries recognizing a Palestinian state now? Since these countries are not necessarily endorsing Palestinians right to self-determination, several other factors might be at play in the recognition movement. The first is geopolitics. Take the last time a major wave of states recognized Palestine in 2011. According to Gurmendi Dunkelberg, the move to recognize Palestine back then was a foreign policy maneuver by Latin American countries to create distance between them and the United States Israels biggest ally on the world stage. What can you do to signal to the United States, I am angry at you and I am distancing myself from your foreign policy? he asked. You recognize Palestine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Similarly, Gurmendi Dunkelberg argues, European countries now are angry with the Trump administration for reasons including tariffs, limited security guarantees, and its posture towards Ukraine. So, recognizing Palestine can send a similar message to the US that it is drifting away from its allies. I think this is a brazenly political move that has nothing to do with actual concern for [Palestinians], Gurmendi Dunkelberg said. The second factor is domestic politics. Throughout the Western world, major demonstrations have repeatedly cropped up over the last two years, protesting Israels war in Gaza. Theres also a growing movement of voters looking for leaders who arent afraid to take a strong moral stance on this issue. Just as Zohran Mamdani worried establishment Democrats after winning the Democratic mayoral primary in New York City despite his pro-Palestinian views, politicians in Europe are also afraid of potential backlash for supporting Israel as it continues to turn every last corner of Gaza into rubble. So, making a largely symbolic gesture like recognizing a Palestinian state allows these governments to say theyve been harsher on Israel without actually doing much to stop the ongoing bloodshed. Ultimately, these recognitions from Western states can be viewed as a sign of some incremental progress. But they arent, on their own, going to deliver meaningful change. Without any follow through, all that these recognitions signal is a complacency with the status quo, allowing the occupation to go on with no real end in sight. The number of homeless Utahns surged to its highest level ever in 2025 as state leadership continues to debate how to balance enhanced law enforcement and increased funding for an expanded shelter system. Nearly 4,600 Utahns were recorded as homeless during the annual 2025 Point-in-Time Count conducted the final weekend of January, representing an 18% increase from 2024 and the largest number on record. We had a huge increase in homelessness, State Homeless Coordinator Wayne Niederhauser told the Deseret News. But weve been effective in responding to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sobering news comes as the nation also reaches record rates of homelessness. On Monday, President Donald Trump federalized the Washington, D.C., police department at least in part in an effort to crack down on the citys homeless encampments. At the end of July, Trump issued an executive order overturning the governments housing first approach to homelessness and instructing agencies to remove obstacles for states to place homeless individuals into long-term institutional care if they pose a risk to themselves or others. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox lauded the move, ordering the Utah Homeless Services Board, which includes Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, to fulfill the Presidents executive order and uphold public safety in a letter joined by Utah Senate President Stuart Adams and House Speaker Mike Schultz. In Utah, nearly half of the increase in homelessness was driven by growth in the chronically homeless population defined as those who have spent at least a year on the streets with a disability, mental illness or drug addiction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The total number of Utahns experiencing chronic homelessness increased by 36% since 2024, from 906 to 1,233. The number of homeless children increased by 12%, from 589 to 662. And the number of homeless seniors over 64 increased by 42% from 251 to 356. There is a silver lining in the data, according to Niederhauser: 95% of the increase was among homeless individuals in shelters a reversal from the year before when 82% of the growth in homelessness was unsheltered. This is an indication the states investment in winter emergency shelters is helping keep Utahns off the street, according to Niederhauser. But the overall increase the largest jump in recent memory points to the need for a new approach. Why did homelessness shoot up? Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Salt Lake City Police Department Chief Brian Redd address the media following the release of the Utah Office of Homeless Services 2025 Annual Report outside City Hall in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. | Tess Crowley, Deseret News Utahs record amount of homelessness in 2025 increased the per capita rate to 13 per 10,000 people compared to the previous rate of around 10 or 11 per 10,000. This is still significantly below the national average of 23. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its annual report published Wednesday, the Utah Office of Homeless Services attributed the rise in homelessness to a rapidly growing population that has outpaced the supply of affordable housing and access to behavioral health services. The increase also follows an unprecedented spike in fentanyl being trafficked through the state. Between 2020 and 2024, the quantity of fentanyl seized in Utah increased 95-fold with interdictions in 2025 nearly overtaking the prior years record before May. The data is clear. There is an overlap between the drugs, the transient-related crime and violent crime, Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd told the Deseret News. There is a connection to those things. Around two-thirds of Utahs homeless population lives in the Salt Lake City area, according to the Office of Homeless Services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, Redd and Mendenhall held a press conference outside City Hall to send a message to the governor and legislative leadership about where responsibility lies for the growing problem. Wednesdays report should be heard as a battle cry, Mendenhall said, spurring action at the Utah Capitol to fully fund services and shelter space to prevent homelessness, encourage treatment and keep Utahns off of the streets. We need our state leaders to prioritize the resources to get this done, Mendenhall said. So to Gov Cox, President Adams and Speaker Schultz, Im calling on our state leadership to create a sea change that we need to address an issue that impacts all Utahns and just increased by 18%. In December, Cox; Adams, R-Layton; and Schultz, R-Hooper; sent a strongly worded letter to Mendenhall that called for the city to find solutions to eliminate crime and restore public safety or have the Legislature step in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mendenhall subsequently provided a public safety plan with 27 recommendations that revolved around remaking city law enforcement and another 23 requests relying on state partners to help close the gap in homeless beds and the criminal justice system. Since Redd has taken over as police chief, the department has taken enforcement as far as we can, answering a record number of 911 calls with a record number of yearly arrests, contributing to a 16-year-low in crime, Mendenhall said. The largest obstacle to changing the trajectory of homelessness in Utah, Mendenhall said, isnt Salt Lakes willingness to crack down on crime, its the Legislatures commitment to invest in long-term solutions, like funding the so-called transformative campus touted by Cox and lawmakers. Im extremely concerned by the lack of forward momentum from legislative leaders, Mendenhall said. Salt Lake City is making good on our part, but the reality is, this is a humanitarian crisis, this is not something that we can police our way out of. State leaders push back on Mendenhall Cox, Adams and Schultz pushed back against Mendenhall on Wednesday. Since Utahs homeless numbers began climbing in 2020, the state has invested more than $266 million on addressing homelessness, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This level of direct state investment is rare; most states delegate homelessness policy to cities and counties. Cox, Adams and Schultz said the Utah Governors Office and Legislature remain committed to helping municipal and private-sector partners find real solutions. The overhaul to city law enforcement under Redd has been an encouraging sign, the leaders said. Mendenhall agreed the city and state must work closer together to address homelessness concerns before the Salt Lake City Temple open house in 2027 and the Olympic Winter Games in 2034. The city needs to stay focused on its core responsibility of protecting its citizens, keeping streets safe and clean and making our capital a place Utahns can be proud of and visitors want to experience, Cox, Adams and Schultz said. We urge Mayor Mendenhall to turn down the politics and keep working with us to find practical and lasting solutions to this complex issue. Our citizens expect results, not finger-pointing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the 2025 legislative session, Utah lawmakers approved, and Cox signed into law, $3.9 million in ongoing funding to launch a second family shelter in Salt Lake County, $5.5 million in one-time funding to expand emergency cold-weather shelter operations statewide and $16.7 million to shore up public resources in shelter cities. Will lawmakers fund the planned shelter? The session prior, the Legislature appropriated $25 million to buy land and construct the future backbone of the states homelessness response: a 30-acre campus with 1,200-1,600 beds and an integrated system of treatment resources and recovery programs on site. Niederhauser said they are still investigating several potential properties for the campus. But many of them, including an area near the Salt Lake City Airport that the Legislature made available for eminent domain, require wetland studies that will take several more weeks to apply for, and several months to complete through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The priority for Niederhausers office going into the 2026 legislative session is appropriations to fully fund the construction of the facility because the $25 million they received isnt going to be sufficient to do it all, Niederhauser said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Niederhauser said they wont put $25-50 million of infrastructure on the ground until the Legislature has decided whether it is willing to set aside the necessary annual funding to make the campus functional, which is going to be a very large number. It currently costs the state $15-$20 million to fund the shelter beds that are available, Niederhauser said. And a campus that is actually intended to model operations like Haven For Hope homelessness campus in San Antonio, Texas, could cost twice that much every year. Were obviously going to need to have additional funding for the campus, and thatll be a high priority for us, Niederhauser said. That would probably be our focus. In the meantime before the campus is completed, Niederhauser said the Legislature can appropriate funding to keep the 1,100 winter beds available past April so providers arent forced to release hundreds of additional people to sleep on the street each spring. LOGAN Over five decades, the annual Hocking Hills Trail Run has taken runners along some of the nations most beautiful trails, past stunning waterfalls, caves and soaring cliffs and rock formations. In years past, the course included some road miles, but this years run features all new courses with nearly all trail running and minimal roadside sections, providing added safety, beauty and challenges. The 47th annual Hocking Hills Trail Run is slated for Sept. 20, 2025 with signups at ExploreHockingHills.com at $25 for the 5K run, $35 for the 10K and $45 for 20K, 40K and 60K routes, with day-of signup offered for an additional $10. Day-of registration for all runners takes place at the Naturalist Cabin near the Old Mans Cave trailhead in Hocking Hills State Park. Each participant will receive a medallion hand crafted by local high school art students and a t-shirt (no guarantee of preferred t-shirt size with day-of signup). The top 3 males and females in each age category will receive place ribbons, with prizes awarded to the top male and female times in each race. Trail race routes are now available in the OuterSpatial app. Known for its remarkable beauty and elevation changes, the Hocking Hills Trail Run offers a challenging workout, as well as the ultimate test of runners powers of concentration as they wind through the vast woodlands of both Hocking Hills State Park and Hocking State Forest. Participants will navigate stream crossings, deep gorges and forested paths, with elevation fluctuations throughout. Receiving rave reviews from past participants, runners praise the outstanding scenery and natural features, including waterfalls, rock formations and caves, as well as its staggered start, diverse age categories and distance options and one-of-a-kind handmade medallions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Staggered race times begin at 7 a.m. with the 60K start. Runners are required to check-in with a human timer before beginning their race and all runners will be equipped with chip timing devices. Walkers are also welcome at the Hocking Hills Trail Run and leashed pets may run the course with the runner/walker. All races must start before 11 a.m. and end by 3 p.m. to be considered for timing and awards. More information is available at ExploreHockingHills.com or by calling 1-800-462-5464. MURRAY, Utah (ABC4) Regular and backup power was lost at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray Thursday. At 12:38 p.m., security alerted all managers outside the medical office building and Eccles Outpatient Care Center that backup generators are fluctuating and both buildings need to be completely shutdown and all appointments canceled. According to Jess Gomez with Intermountain Health, shortly before noon on Thursday, regular power was lost. A short time after, backup power was also lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gomez says ambulances were diverted to other hospitals until power was restored. Power was lost at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray Thursday. (KTVX//Bayan Wang) People stand outside the Intermountain Medical Center after it lost power (KTVX// Bayan Wang) People stand outside the Intermountain Medical Center after it lost power (KTVX// Bayan Wang) Latest updates below Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Legendary climber Reinhold Messner has been speaking about the dangers of mountaineering, following the fatal mountain accident involving the German Olympic biathlete Laura Dahlmeier. "You follow your passion, but in doing so you are also selfish towards your loved ones and society," the extreme mountaineer told the German broadcaster Phoenix, in an interview to be broadcast on Sunday. "Of course, I set off confident that I have everything under control," said the 80-year-old, adding that climbing in the wilderness involves great dangers. "You can be careful, but there is always a residual risk." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Messner, from the German-speaking Italian province of South Tyrol, said that no one climbs mountains to die. However, anyone who exposes themselves to the wilds of nature is putting themselves in danger. Those who are not prepared to die on the mountain should not climb. The sport, he said, is "the direct confrontation between man and nature." It can be fatal. Global warming has also made mountains more fragile than they used to be, Messner said, and rockfalls are unpredictable. At the end of July, 31-year-old Dahlmeier died while mountain climbing in Pakistan. The two-time Olympic champion was climbing the 6,069-metre-high Laila Peak with a rope partner when she was hit by falling rocks at an altitude of 5,700 metres during the descent. Before the accident, Dahlmeier had stated that she did not want to be rescued in such a case so as not to endanger anyone else. Messner considers this understandable. However, he said it would be difficult for relatives to bear the thought of the body remaining on the mountain. The legendary mountaineer said parents should be the ones to decide what happens to the body. However, he finds the idea of her body remaining on the mountain unpleasant. SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) State Representative Bud L. Williams is voicing his opposition to a Springfield business liquor license application. Auditor hires private law firm to sue legislature Representative Williams sent a formal letter to the License Commission at Springfield City Hall, opposing the liquor license application submitted by Antojos Corporation in Springfield. This is a very serious issue, Williams states. Im going to take it very seriously because the quality of life here is fragile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Williams said that the application has caused community concern due to the family-oriented nature of the business. The primary function of Antojos Corporation, located at 263 Hancock Street, is that of an ice cream shop a cherished establishment frequented by families, children, and residents seeking a safe, welcoming environment, Williams said. The intent behind full liquor licenses has always been to accommodate restaurants, taverns, and venues where the responsible service and sale of alcohol is an established and appropriate element of the business model. Granting such a license to an ice cream shop is wholly inconsistent with the original purpose of this category of permits. The Old Hill Neighborhood Council also reviewed the application and reportedly strongly opposed granting the full liquor license. Williams said that if the Springfield License Commission approved Antojos Corporations application, he would go to Boston and oppose approval in front of the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission. The commission has tabled the hearing until they meet again on Wednesday, August 20. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) With the news of 8-year-old Genesis Matas abuse and murder allegedly by her own father and stepmother leaving the community shocked, many Kern County residents have been questioning the effectiveness of the systems currently set in place to protect children from harm. While immediate response or change on the systematic level is unlikely to happen, there are actions that individuals in Kern County can take to potentially bring light to a childs suffering. Heres everything you need to know about reporting suspected child abuse to county officials, and what you can expect to happen next. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chief Greg Terry calls death of Genesis Mata one of the most horrific cases in BPD history Who can report child abuse? Anyone in the community can report child abuse, said Kristy Torres with the Kern County Department of Human Services. According to Torres, the best option is to contact CPS through their Kern County Child Protection Hotline at 661-631-6011. The Ridgecrest hotline is 760-375-6049. Reports to these numbers can be made 24/7. In emergency situations, the reporter should call 911 instead. Child abuse can also be reported in other ways, Torres said. Reporters can deliver all the information they have about suspected child abuse via email, fax or in person at the CPS office, located at 100 E. California Ave. in Bakersfield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other than general members of the community, there are also mandated reporters adults required to make direct contact with and supervise minors as part of their job. They are required to report child abuse under state law. Mandated reporters include a wide variety of people and positions: School employees, law enforcement agency employees, firefighters, medical professionals, youth program or camp administrators, clergy members, social workers and more. Mandated reporters should report suspected child abuse using this form. The instructions on how to report abuse as a mandated reporter and the Spanish form are also available. What falls under child abuse? According to the Kern County DHS website, there are various types of abuse that should be reported: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Physical Abuse : Bodily injury inflicted on a child by an adult, whether they have custody or not. Accidental harm is excluded. Sexual Abuse : Any sexual act performed by an adult to a child or when a child is present. Emotional Abuse : Actions or lack thereof by caretakers that endanger a childs emotional health. General Neglect : When the guardian of a child fails to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care or supervision, but no physical injury occurred to the child. Severe Neglect : When the guardian acts negligently and places the child in a situation where their health would be endangered, including severe malnutrition and failure to thrive. Exploitation: Forcing or coercing a child into performing activities that are beyond the childs capabilities or which are illegal or degrading, including sexual exploitation. Emotional abuse includes actions or omissions by the childs guardian that cause or risk serious behavioral, cognitive, emotional or mental disorders in the child, according to the department. In some cases, such as when the parents use extreme or bizarre forms of punishment like torture or isolation on a child, the parents acts are enough to warrant intervention, regardless of the evidence in the childs behavior or condition. For less severe acts like scapegoating, belittling or rejecting treatment, Child Welfare Services look at the harm in the childs behavior or condition before intervening, county officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement County administrative building turns blue for Child Abuse Prevention Month What if Im not sure if its abuse? People around children may find themselves in a situation where they suspect abuse may be happening, but ultimately arent sure. Torres said if theres any doubt about a situation, its better to call CPS and relay the information they have than doing nothing. Members of the community can also call if they have questions about whether they should report something or not. If anyone has any suspicion or concern, if something is odd when they see a child, the number one thing is to contact CPS and notify us, Torres said. What happens after abuse is reported? Once CPS receives a report of child abuse, the report is screened to determine whether or not it meets the criteria for an in-person investigation, according to Torres. If there seems to be enough danger to the childs physical health or evidence of severe emotional harm, it could become an open case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports that dont meet the criteria and are determined to not need CPS involvement are referred to community partners, such as the Differential Response or Parents as Teachers program, Torres said. As part of the resolution process, the Child Welfare Services and Juvenile Court take the following steps: Emergency response : CWS carries out an investigation to determine if abuse or neglect is happening, if a child is at risk in the home and if protective custody is needed. The child is only removed from the parents custody if thats the only way the child can be protected. Family maintenance : Support services are given to the family to prevent abuse or neglect while the child stays at the home. The services can include family counseling, substance abuse counseling, parent training, financial care and more. Family reunification : Court-ordered support services are given to the family as the child temporarily stays in foster care or with relatives. The service can include the ones also included in family maintenance, along with referrals to community services to address triggering factors. Permanent placement: The child, who cant be returned to their family, is placed in out-of-home care. These cases are directed to adoption, legal guardianship or long-term foster care. Not every call made to CPS requires a response, as some may be better suited for other departments, Torres said. For example, if the caller reports that an adult is suffering from abuse, CPS may direct their call to Kern Countys Adult Protective Services under the Aging & Adult Services Department. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now 17 News Alerts Since each case is different, Torres said the response time for each case can vary, whether its responded to within two hours or 10 days. Thats why providing as many pieces of information as possible to CPS is important, Torres said. With more information about the reporting party, the person accused of abuse and the reporters concerns, CPS can assess the situation and determine a response more easily. We encourage the community, if they have any suspicion or concerns, to please call us, Torres said. We are here with the community, we want to save kids obviously, we want to help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information about child abuse and neglect or the reporting process, 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 KGET 17 News. New Hampshires standing as last in the nation when it comes to state aid for higher education got worse with the recent state budget that cuts support by nearly 18%, according to a report from the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute (NHFPI). Ayotte remains hopeful she can increase state aid to USNH in 2026 Gov. Kelly Ayotte told reporters that if state revenues rebound in the coming months, increasing state aid to the University System of New Hampshire is one of her top priorities. The state budget she signed in June cut state aid to USNH by nearly 18% over the next two years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the previous fiscal year ending June 30, state aid to the University System of New Hampshire (USNH) dropped 3.9% while the average among all U.S. states during that time was a 4.3% increase in assistance. Our findings should serve as a wake-up call, said Nicole Heller, author of the study and a senior policy analyst at NHFPI, a nonprofit independent think tank thats often critical of conservative changes in fiscal policy. Underfunding our public colleges and universities not only makes it harder for Granite Staters to afford to pursue college degrees, it also risks leaving the state unprepared to meet its workforce needs. With the newly approved state budget reducing funding for Keene State, Plymouth State, and UNH by 17.6 percent relative to the last budget, the gap between New Hampshire and the rest of the country could widen even further. By contrast, the two-year state budget that Gov Kelly Ayotte signed last June raised by 1% ($944,000) the state aid to the two-year community college system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her budget proposal last February, Ayotte had proposed a 4% cut in state aid for four-year colleges that administrators said they could live with and perhaps not have to raise tuition. With the significant budget cut, USNH trustees approved in-state tuition increases ranging from 2.5% at the University of New Hampshire in Durham to 4.9% at Keene State College. Room and board increases raise total costs for New Hampshire students next year to a range of 4.7% to 6.9%. UNH officials announced last week a second round of layoffs, with 23 laid off and hours reduced for 10 others to deal with a $17.5 million cut in its budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this week, WalletHub issued a report that rated the states two-year college system as the best in New England and the Northeast and the ninth-best in the nation. Im proud of that ranking because it says we are on the cutting edge of providing students with the jobs of tomorrows economy, Ayotte told reporters. Ayotte: USNH needs to do things differently As for USNH spending, Ayotte said she had opposed the cuts contained in the budget that she signed and remained hopeful that she will be able to ask the Legislative Fiscal Committee next year to give four-year colleges more state aid as long as state revenues come in over forecast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The university system is very important but enrollment trends are down so we need to look at ways we can do things differently, Ayotte said. One of those ways is to increase the cooperation between the community college and university system so students seamlessly can go from a two-year to a four-year degree if they decide that works best for them. The NHFPI report notes that four of the top 10 job growth sectors in New Hampshire require a four-year degree: software developers, general and operations managers, financial managers, and nurse practitioners. Granite Staters need affordable, accessible education pathways that lead to good jobs here in New Hampshire, said Heller. Investing in our students can help grow our workforce and improve the Granite States economic future. Other key findings in the report were: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per-student support: New Hampshires state aid equals $4,629 per student, the lowest in the U.S.. Post-COVID support: State aid to USNH from 2020-2025 went up 14.2%, less than half the national average of a 32.9% jump in aid. Per-person aid: The $120 per person in state aid to USNH is also lowest, with Arizona the second-lowest, contributing $166 per person in that state. Heavy reliance on students: New Hampshire public colleges get 68% of revenue from student tuition vs. 39% nationally. High tuition costs and low state funding for public higher education can have long-term impacts on the financial well-being of Granite State students and families, the report concluded. klandrigan@unionleader.com BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) It has been more than two years since Buffalo firefighter Jason Arno died while responding to a four-alarm fire on Main Street. Now, city and state investigative reports, which were recently released as part of an ongoing wrongful death lawsuit filed by Arnos widow, have revealed multiple missteps by the Buffalo Fire Department in connection with the fatal incident. The reports are not new. The Buffalo Fire Departments internal review is dated Sept. 2023, and the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) issued its findings on Aug. 7, 2023, but they were only recently released publicly as evidence in the legal proceedings. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The documents highlight a series of safety oversights and procedural failures. According to the NYSDOL report, the department showed inadequate accountability, non-functioning firefighting equipment, failure to follow interior firefighting procedures, and other factors unrelated to occupational safety and health standards. The Buffalo Fire Departments own report noted that rig positioning while not a direct cause of Arnos death delayed defensive operations because the apparatus had to be moved outside the buildings collapse zone. The report also revealed that an acting officer with no formal training was in charge of Arnos engine at the time of the fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additional findings indicated that excessive radio traffic caused four mayday calls made by Arno to go unheard. The report said calls to evacuate the building were being made at the same time and that on-scene personnel never attempted radio contact with Arno once he was down. The report also said that no emergency headcount was conducted after firefighters exited the structure. Images included in the fire departments report show Arnos equipment and the location where he was found amid the rubble. Mike Lombardo, former commissioner and chief of department of the Buffalo Fire Department from January 2006 to January 2010, filed an expert affirmation in the lawsuit. In it he says, I conclude, to a reasonable degree of fire science certainty, that the City of Buffalo and/or the City of Buffalo Fire Department were negligent in failing to comply with multiple statutes, laws, rules and/or regulations, which caused the line of duty death to firefighter Arno. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the mayors office confirmed the reports had been sent to Fire Commissioner William Renaldo during the tenure of former Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown. At the time of the incident and completion of this report, I was not serving as Mayor of the City of Buffalo, acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon said in a statement. It is very troubling to me that I was not made aware of this report until today. Byron Brown has been out of office for almost a year and does not have any updates on this issue, said Mike DeGeorge, a spokesperson for Brown. Scanlon said he is currently reviewing the reports findings and will ensure that the Buffalo Fire Department implements any and all safety recommendations outlined in the NYSDOLs review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those recommendations are additional training and refresher courses, an overhaul of the departments operations manual and the acquisition of thermal imagers. Both the Jason Arno Memorial Foundation and attorney Sarah Tierneys legal team declined to comment on the pending litigation. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ruled the cause of the fire as accidental. Latest Local News Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAN DIEGO (FOX5/KUSI) San Diego Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50) alongside Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (CA-51) held a press conference on Wednesday regarding passed tariffs. Last week, the Trump administration set high tariffs on dozens of countries, according to the Associated Press. In response, Peters and Jacobs met with San Diego business owners at Cesar Chavez Park to discuss the local impact. The representatives said recent tariffs have led to businesses passing off new costs to consumers. Jacobs said these changes directly impact San Diego. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes when we talk about tariffs it can feel a little abstract, like numbers on a spreadsheet or headlines we see, but thats not the case for us in San Diego, Jacobs said. Peters said Americans are already struggling with the cost of living and that tariffs are making America weaker, not great again. Business owners join local representatives to speak on tariffs. (KSWB/KUSI) Business leaders and owners across the county joined the representatives, including: Chris Cate from the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, Michael Farrington with Corza Medical Nikia Clarke from the World Trade Center, Dan Clark with Dan Clark Audio and Brian Miller with Geppettos Toys. Tariffs hurt our regional economy, Cate said. They cost jobs, reduce investment, raise prices for families and undermine the cross-border economic engine that helps make our region the best place to live and work and a model of binational cooperation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dan Clark Audio has always been manufactured locally in San Diego. However, Clark shared that since they are a small business they had to raise prices due to the new tariffs. As a small business, we cant just absorb the cost of tariffs, so we will have to raise our prices, Clark said. Instead of helping us as a US manufacturer, tariffs may well cripple our export 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 FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. President Donald Trump's budget request, released on May 2, 2025, proposes slashing $21 billion in unspent funds from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law for renewable energy, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and other efforts to cut climate-warming carbon dioxide emissions. Shown are solar panels and wind turbines. (Photo by Marga Buschbell-Steeger/Getty Images) At the conclusion of my 45-year career in utility regulation and energy policy, it is most depressing to see how the Republican Party has recently become so stridently opposed to clean energy policies such as energy efficiency and renewable energy. This has not always been the case, as I will illustrate below. This change is most strikingly evident at the federal level, where the Trump Administration has aggressively pursued truly shocking anti-environment and anti-clean energy policies, and where the Republican controlled House and Senate have provided zero resistance to those numerous attacks. (A good tracking of these attacks is provided here.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Having had the opportunity over the years to testify in Congress, and in the state legislatures in seven different states, I have had a good vantage point to observe this disturbing shift in Republican actions. For the rest of this piece, I will focus on my particular area of expertise: energy efficiency policy, and on my home state of Michigan, which happens to provide a vivid example of this deteriorating Republican support. Michigan made some good early progress on energy efficiency in the post energy crisis years, from 1979 until the early 1990s. This was first under Republican Governor Bill Milliken and then Democratic Governor Jim Blanchard. However, Republican Governor John Engler terminated all the utility energy efficiency programs around 1995. (There were certainly some bad Republican politicians regarding clean energy even then.) As a result of those bleak years, I left my position as Supervisor of Evaluation at the Michigan Public Service Commission in 1999 and became Director of the Utilities Program at the non-profit organization the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Fast forward to 2008, when after over a decade of no energy efficiency programs, the state seriously pursued a strong clean energy policy. The state was under very mixed political control. Democrats controlled the governorship (Jennifer Granholm) and the House, while Republicans had the majority in the Senate. (I personally testified in the House, had meetings with key senators and wrote a Detroit Free Press editorial.) After months of discussion and drama, the legislature ultimately passed PA 295 of 2008. That legislation established for the first time a specific requirement for utility energy efficiency programs and set target savings requirements, and also set a requirement for a certain percentage of electricity generation to come from renewable energy. (In full disclosure, as it turned out, I had the great fortune to help compose most of the text of the utility energy efficiency portion of the legislation that ultimately passed.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But most notably for the purposes of this essay, the legislation passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers: 83-24 in the Democratic controlled House and 26-10 in the Republican controlled Senate. [As a side note, this established a very strong core policy for utility energy efficiency, such that in the most recent national rankings by ACEEE, Michigan was ranked second in the nation among all 50 states in the category of utility energy efficiency policies and performance.] The next major policy action on clean energy was in 2016, a time when the Republicans controlled the governorship (Rick Snyder), the Senate and the House. While some initial draft efforts actually proposed ending the state mandates for energy efficiency and renewable energy, after much effort (e.g., in disclosure, I personally testified in the Senate and wrote a couple op-eds) the tide was turned. Ultimately the legislature passed PA342, which actually strengthened both the utility energy efficiency requirements and the renewable energy standard. Notably, the final votes were overwhelmingly bipartisan, 33 -4 in the GOP controlled Senate and 76-31 in the GOP controlled House. [Much credit is due to Republican Governor Snyder, who fortunately remained a supporter of energy efficiency and renewable energy throughout his terms in office.] Which brings us to the next and most recent big move in Michigan clean energy policy, and a direct example of how Republican support for clean energy has vanished. In 2023, Democrats controlled the Governorship (Gretchen Whitmer), the House and the Senate (albeit with slim majorities). Climate change had become a major topic of interest, and a package of bills was introduced to address that issue. The most pertinent bills here ended up being PA235 (to greatly strengthen the renewable energy requirement on utilities) and PA229 to strengthen the utility energy efficiency standard. (Again, in disclosure, I testified in the House and helped craft some of the PA229 provisions.) The result of this effort vividly illustrates how the Republican Party seems to have come to complete abandonment of clean energy (and climate) policy. Republicans opposed these efforts, and both PA 235 and PA 229 passed the House and the Senate without a single Republican vote (PA235: 20-17 Senate, 56-51 House; PA229 20-15 Senate, 56-53 House). And since the Republicans took control of the Michigan House after the 2024 elections, not a single piece of positive clean energy legislation has advanced at all. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, this leaves us with two crucial questions: 1) how on Earth did the Republican Party shift so strongly from at least moderate support of energy efficiency and renewable energy to such virulent opposition? And 2) given that the future of a livable planet is frankly at stake, how can we either change or overcome that opposition? SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Its been clear since President Trump and his Fox News DC U.S. Attorney first announced that he was placing the Metropolitan Police Department under emergency federal control that he was trying to pull off another LA-style federal occupation of a city run by politicians he doesnt like. Multiple news outlets have put out aggressive fact checks on the presidents claims in the days since, rebutting Trumps false assertions that Washington, D.C. is somehow overrun with violent crime. Statistics show that violent crime in D.C. has actually declined substantially since 2023 when the city experienced a spike in crime falling to the lowest its been since before the pandemic, the Washington Post reported. The New York Times reports that homicides in the city declined by a third from 2023 to 2024 and are on track to decrease even further in 2025. The Times also determined that Trumps and former Fox News host Jeanine Pirros claims about youth arrests in D.C. this week were exaggerated at best. Trump foreshadowed his interest in taking over blue cities and punishing elected Democrats during his first term, and his interest in such maneuvers only became clearer on the campaign trail last summer and during his first few months back in office. When he deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles in the wake of resistance to his mass deportation efforts, he justified the move by pointing at (mostly peaceful) protests breaking out in the city. In D.C. this week, he barely tried to come up with a rationale for his power play, as my colleague Josh Kovensky reported earlier this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It appears that some of his closest allies in Washington are jumping at the opportunity to spin up some tall tale anecdotes to give Trump datapoints to gesture toward to justify his federalization of the D.C. police, which he can legally do for 30 days before needing congressional approval. (Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said hell deploy 800 members of the D.C. National Guard to the streets for whatever reason over the coming week.) Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), a former MMA fighter-turned MAGA senator, told Fox News during an interview on Wednesday night that he doesnt follow D.C.s law about wearing seatbelts because he is too afraid of getting carjacked. In D.C., you are required to buckle up while driving. You can be fined $50 for not wearing a seatbelt. Heres an excerpt of what he said on The Ingraham Angle last night, which was first flagged by Mediaite: And by the way, Im not joking when I say this. I drive around in Washington, D.C. in my jeep and, yes, I do drive myself. And I dont buckle up. And the reason why I dont buckle up, and people can say whatever they want to, they can raise their eyebrows at me, again, is because of carjacking. I dont wanna be stuck in my vehicle when I need to exit in a hurry because I got a seat belt around me. And I wear my seat belt all the time, but in Washington, D.C., I do not because it is so prevalent of carjacking. And I dont want the same thing happen to me whats happened to a lot of people that work on The Hill. HuffPost notes that carjacking incidents in D.C. are on the decline as well after a spike in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The actual statistics on violent crime obviously dont matter to the MAGA movement or those looking to extend Trumps federal occupation of D.C. Trump and the right-wing media has been on this racist bender for decades, attempting to paint urban areas of the U.S. as crime-ridden hell holes that need an authoritarian to whip them into shape. DeSantis to Open Another Immigrant Detention Center With Another Intentionally Outrageous Name After getting flooded with praise from the Trump administration over the opening of Alligator Alcatraz, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced he is opening another immigrant detention facility, which he is going to call Deportation Depot. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem applauded DeSantis outrage-inducing Alligator Alcatraz as a model for other states to follow. Per the AP: DeSantis announced Thursday that the new facility is to be housed at the Baker Correctional Institution, a state prison about 43 miles (69 kilometers) west of downtown Jacksonville. It is expected to hold 1,300 immigration detention beds, though that capacity could be expanded to 2,000, state officials said. Newsom Plan to Counter Texas Redistricting Has Yet to Win Over the Public Weve mentioned before that while Democratic leaders in blue states like California and New York are working out plans to try to offset the impact of Trumps power grab, guised as a Texas midcycle redistricting effort, those efforts might not pan out. Thats because many blue states have established independent redistricting commissions and adopted other measures to create nonpartisan maps for state legislatures to approve aimed at preventing the exact type of egregious gerrymandering that Texas Republicans are trying to pull off. It appears that California Gov. Gavin Newsoms plan to redraw some maps to net more Dem seats in the blue state might not be too popular among voters. Per a new Politico poll: By nearly a two-to-one margin, voters prefer keeping an independent line-drawing panel to determine the states House seats, the latest POLITICO-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab survey found. Just 36 percent of respondents back returning congressional redistricting authority to state lawmakers. In Case You Missed It Another Senate Dem Refuses to Participate in Budgeting to Protest Trumps Power Grab Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Courts Cant And Wont Save Us, Part 805 Pete Hegseths Pastor Wants Spiritual Warfare Waged On All Texas Republicans Bid to Out-Hard Ass Each Other Continues Yesterdays Most Read Story Trump Forces His Brand Of Americanism On The Smithsonian What We Are Reading Texas Democrats set plan to end nearly 2-week walkout over Republicans redraw of US House maps Border Patrol chief crashes Newsoms rollout of California redistricting campaign Metas AI rules have let bots hold sensual chats with kids, offer false medical info For years, when Badger Prairie Needs Network in Verona has announced yet another expansion, a repeated question has come up: On the landlocked property, where could they even build? Each time, BPNN has found an answer. This time, with the last expansion BPNN is planning, the answer is up. To build the latest $4.6 million, two-story addition, which opened Wednesday, BPNN and Dane County still had to sacrifice thousands of square feet of parking lot to house expanded food storage, freezer space and administrative offices for volunteers to do the behind-the-scenes work of the food pantry. The facility also contains office space for county social workers. The 12,000-square-foot addition will double the food pantrys overall square footage, making the building more than three times larger than the original building Badger Prairie moved into. BPNN has expanded its reach to become a regional pantry hub what once was limited to families in the Verona Area School District is now on pace to serve 100,000 people this year, up from the 20,000 it served during the COVID-19 pandemic. The addition will give it breathing room to eventually increase its output to 4 million pounds of food, about twice what it gives out now. A decade ago, BPNN distributed about half a million pounds of food annually. BPNN is bracing for increased foot traffic in the coming years, especially after the passage of the federal budget reconciliation bill. That legislation cut Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program eligibility for up to 88,000 Wisconsinites in 2026 and requires the state to pick up about $314 million of the tab, which had previously been fully federally funded. So, Badger Prairie is anticipating both an increase in the number of people it serves and an increase in how much those people need. With the excitement of growth comes the sobering reality that many in the community cant afford their next meal, BPNN board President Bob Kasieta told volunteers and local leaders Wednesday. I dont think any of us would be here if in Dane County, as (with) many other communities, there wasnt a great need to address poverty. And so its with mixed feelings that we come together, Kasieta said. Im so pleased to be able to give back to this community thats been so great to my family, and I am so saddened by the fact that we need the services that we provide. For much of the past decade, since BPNN moved into the county building, its been growing. Bit by bit, its chipped away at its parcel of land, despite being bordered by other county facilities, a dog park and one of Veronas main thoroughfares. In 2018, the food pantry was bursting at the seams and added almost 1,600 square feet of cooler and freezer space at the expense of a parking lot; more cooler space was added just two years later amid rapid growth fueled by COVID-19 pandemic. A 4,800-square-foot addition in 2022 facilitated a return for its community meals program, which had been previously squeezed out. That space ate up part of the lawn between the food pantry and East Verona Avenue. Many hands The expansion was funded partly through state and federal dollars earmarked for local projects and through private donors, including Epic Systems Corp. founder Judy Faulkners Roots and Wings Foundation and the Evjue Foundation. BPNNs expansion is one of the first projects completed from the states local projects fund, which was started in 2023 by Gov. Tony Evers and the state Legislature. Capital projects are just one arm of the success. We also have a responsibility as a state to connect the dots that improve all aspects of families lives, Evers said. Tackling poverty is not just about food. It means addressing the root causes of issues that so often can hold back on kids and families and communities, especially now ... as federal chaos has made the dependability of programs like those that address food security, health care, housing and so much more feel like a question mark. Humble origin The food pantry started in 1986, when Gov. Tony Earl started a program that provided government cheese and bread to hungry people. Salem United Church of Christ in Verona tapped one of its members, Debbie Bass, to oversee the donations. That food was stored in a meager closet at the church and later moved to a loading dock at the familys business, Park Printing. Bass celebrates her 90th birthday this month and got a tour of BPNNs latest addition. Shes blown away by how far its come. Its overwhelming, Bass said as she and her family toured the new office and storage facilities. To think that I started this with handing cheese out to people its almost beyond what I can understand. ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) Democratic Illinois legislators are in Rockford on Wednesday to host a town hall to address threats to healthcare in Illinois, while a Republican lawmaker counters that they are spreading misinformation in regards to the recently passed Medicaid reform bill. Sen. Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) and Rep. Maurice West (D-Rockford) will appear at a Healthcare is a Human Right Town Hall, along with members of Citizen Action Illinois, at the Rockford Public Librarys Nordloff Center, to discuss the real-life consequences of the recently passed federal reconciliation bill (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) and how Illinois can take bold action to protect access to care. According to a press release, The recently passed federal reconciliation bill threatens key programs that millions of Illinoisans rely onincluding Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. Illinois leaders and advocates are responding with urgency and vision, working to protect access and advance solutions like PDAB to lower prescription drug prices. This town hall will provide the public with crucial information, tools for advocacy, and a chance to make their voices heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) released a statement saying, It is disappointing to see organizations like Citizen Action and some legislators continue to spread misinformation about the recent Medicaid reform bill that was passed. I dont know if they just never read the bill or if they are doing this for political reasons. Either way, it is wrong to scare people with misinformation. Those who have read this bill know the truth. The reforms make only two necessary cuts: ending benefits for non-citizens who are in the country illegally, and for healthy single adults who refuse to work, attend school, learn a trade, or volunteer, he continued. I challenge these groups to specifically point to where in the legislation that seniors, the disabled, working families, single parents, or any other vulnerable group are losing healthcare. The media needs to also ask them to be specific about where cuts for vulnerable groups are made in the legislation and they must not accept some theoretical answer. They will not point out the language in the bill because it is not in the law that was passed, Syverson added. The Democrats cited a May 2024 Public Policy Polling survey which said that 77% of Illinois voters are concerned about being able to afford the cost of prescription medication in the next few years, and found 31% said they skipped refilling a prescription due to the cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democratic legislators have proposed the Prescription Drug Affordability Act, which aims to establish a state board to evaluate high-cost drugs and set upper pay limits for Illinois residents. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports. President Donald Trump signaled he may skirt Congress to extend his takeover of the Washington, D.C., police, and some congressional Republicans are heeding the call. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., said he would vote for extending Trumps authority but didnt believe that Senate Democrats would budge and support giving the president more time. "I'm absolutely in favor of President Trump doing whatever he needs to do," Marshall told Fox News Digital. "Of course, we want to follow the Constitution, and I need to go back and read what he can do and not do, but I think it'll take a 60-vote threshold in the Senate to pass this resolution." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Predicts Little Progress In Potential Shutdown Talks With 'Crazy' Schumer, Jeffries President Donald Trump speaks during an event at the Kennedy Center Aug. 13, 2025, in Washington. The provision allows for the president to effectively federalize the local police force for up to 30 days, unless Congress, through a joint resolution, grants him an extension. But questions remain over whether that kind of resolution would hit the Senates typical 60-vote threshold or if it could pass through a simple majority. Trump on Monday invoked a section of the Home Rule Act that governs the district to give himself the authority to take control of the Metropolitan Police Department and has since sent in National Guard troops, alongside FBI and DEA agents, to patrol the streets. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Top House Republican Says Trump 'Rightly' Took Over Dc Police, Demands Bowser, Others Testify On Crime Sen. Roger Marshall, a R-Kan., speaks during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol in Washington March 4, 2021. Republicans control 53 seats in the upper chamber, meaning Democrats may be needed to grant Trump an extension beyond the 30-day window. But Trump, during a press conference Wednesday announcing new Kennedy Center honorees, said that he would be asking for "long-term extensions" and believed Democrats would not "do anything to stop crime." Trump also noted he may not need Congress. "Well, if it's a national emergency, we can do it without Congress," Trump said. "But we expect to be before Congress, very quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump Activates National Guard Troops To Address Totally Out Of Control Crime In Washington "We're going to do this very quickly, but we're going to want extensions," he added. "I don't want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, but I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously." House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, whose committee oversees the district, enthusiastically backed Trump's move to take control of D.C.'s police force Monday. When asked by Fox News Digital if he would back Trump leapfrogging Congress to continue his hold on the local police, a spokesman said, "We support the presidents actions to complete the mission." Both Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., and House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., initially supported the presidents move to crack down on crime in the district, which was spurred by a recent attack on a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) staffer. Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah., arrives for the Senate Republicans' leadership election in the Capitol Nov. 13, 2024. When asked for comment on Trumps latest remarks regarding an extension, Thunes office referred Fox News Digital to his previous statement on social media in which the GOP leader lauded the administrations move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Washington, D.C., should be a place where people can safely live, visit, work, and raise a family, and [Mondays] announcement is a positive step in that direction," he said. Fox News Digital reached out to Johnsons office for comment but did not hear back. A clearer picture of where lawmakers stand will likely have to wait, given that they are out of town in their respective states and districts for much of the 30-day window. But the issue will likely be front of mind when they return after Labor Day. Still, Trump already has some public support from Republicans for extending his timeframe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Jim Banks, R-Ind., told Fox News Digital in a statement he fully supported "President Trump's plan to make D.C. safe again, and will back up his efforts in the Senate." And Sen. Mike Lee, who has a bill that would repeal the Home Rule Act and federalize the district, similarly would support extending the 30-day window, "with the ultimate goal of working with him to pass the BOWSER Act and restore full Congressional oversight of the city." "The safety and sanity of our nations capital should not depend upon having good presidents in the Oval Office, but Im glad we have one now," the Utah Republican told Fox News Digital in a statement. Original article source: Republicans ready to support Trump's move to skirt Congress in DC crime crackdown An international team of researchers has warned that Arctic reindeer populations could decline by up to 80% by 2100 due to climate change, according to a study published on Wednesday. Researchers used fossils, ancient DNA, and computer models to "reconstruct and decipher" 21,000 years of population dynamics of Rangifer tarandus. The species is known as reindeer in Eurasia and as caribou in North America. Lead author Dr Elisabetta Canteri, from the University of Adelaide and University of Copenhagen, said that the study "reconstructed changes in the abundance and distribution" of the species, which dates back to the Ice Age, "at resolutions never done before, and we directly compared these to future predictions." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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 scientists said that the species has already seen a decline in populations of nearly two thirds over the last three decades. "Our forecasts show that these North American caribou populations are most at risk from climate warming, with declines of up to 80 per cent likely by 2100," said research co-lead Damien Fordham, from the University of Adelaide. Fordham called for a boost to investment in conservation, as well as wildlife management, and for major cuts to greenhouse gas emissions to help the species persist. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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, from the University of California Davis, who contributed to the research. "For thousands of years, the wellbeing of our own species has benefitted directly from healthy reindeer and caribou populations. Now more than ever we need to ensure their wellbeing in turn." Wildfires have burned hundreds of thousands of acres across Arizona this season and destroyed notable landmarks in the Grand Canyon State. Several fires throughout Arizona continued to burn as officials worked to contain the largest, the Dragon Bravo Fire, which was burning on the Grand Canyon's North Rim. Another fire near Sedona, the Woods Fire that started Aug. 13, had residents prepared for the possibility of an evacuation. Officials cautioned that the Washington Fire burning near Payson could also prompt evacuations. Several other fires were largely uncontained in the central and eastern parts of the state, including the Billy Fire, Bronco Fire and Indian Creek Fires. Meanwhile, the White Sage Fire burning farther north on the Kaibab Plateau has remained at 95% containment. Billy Fire The Billy Fire south of Young in Gila County in central Arizona had scorched 19,750 acres as of the evening of Aug. 13, according to federal tracker InciWeb. It was 21% contained and was originally caused by a lightning strike. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scattered showers were expected Aug. 14 with gusty winds that could move from north to east, according to InciWeb. Continued growth was anticipated to the south and west toward Carr Mountain. Bronco Fire Unexpected rain tempered some of the Bronco Fire northeast of San Carlos, according to InciWeb. After 0% containment just days ago, the fire had burned 18,131 acres and was 16% contained. It's been fueled by a mix of timber, chaparral and brush. Officials did not expect the fire to grow significantly, given the upcoming chances for rain and the lack of strong winds, InciWeb said. Dragon Bravo Fire As of Aug. 13, the more than 144,000-acre fire on the Grand Canyon's North Rim has been 44% contained, according to InciWeb. Originally caused by lightning on July 4, the wildfire was currently staffed by more than 1,000 personnel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Weather was dry and warm in the area, and officials noted that winds will "challenge containment lines near Hindu Point and on the Walhalla Plateau, which have remained static for two days," according to InciWeb. Indian Creek Fire Starting on Aug. 5 on the Fort Apache Reservation, the Indian Creek Fire was now 2,513 acres, InciWeb said. It was 25% contained as of Aug. 13, and officials said potential thunderstorm buildup was threatening erratic winds. The fire was burning in "steep and rugged terrain," making it difficult for firefighters to get to, InciWeb said. Washington Fire The Washington Fire started Aug. 13 northwest of Washington Park in the Payson Ranger District, according to the U.S. Forest Service Tonto National Forest. Ten to 15 acres had burned as of 3:07 p.m. Residents near Bray Creek Ranch, Shadow Rim Ranch, Rim Trail Estates, Verde Glen and Washington Park were in "set" status, according to the Gila County Sheriff's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "SET means be prepared to evacuate at a moments notice," the Sheriff's Office said. "Gather your essentials, plan where you will go, and stay alert for further instructions." Engines and helicopters from the Billy Fire were helping with fire suppression efforts, the forest service said. Additional resources ordered included airtankers. The cause of the fire was under investigation. Residents of Jacks Canyon Road and Pine Valley were asked to be prepared to leave their homes, according to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office. They posted a map of possible evacuations Aug. 13, 2025. Woods Fire Residents living in parts of the Village of Oak Creek were being asked to prepare to evacuate on short notice as of Aug. 13. The "set" evacuation order from Yavapai County Sheriff's Office was issued for people living east of State Route 179, according to a Facebook post from the Sheriff's Office. That included parts of Jacks Canyon Road and Pine Valley. Residents should gather important documents, medicine and personal items, the Sheriff's Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire was first reported around noon Aug. 13, according to the Sedona Fire Department. Firefighters found the blaze on Horse Mesa about two miles east of Village of Oak Creek and six miles southeast of Sedona. Officials don't know what caused the fire or how large it is, but said the smoke was noticeable to people in the surrounding neighborhoods and those driving along Interstate 17, said the U.S. Forest Service Coconino National Forest. Smoke will remain visible as firefighters work to contain it. The public was asked to avoid the area until further notice, according to the forest service. Fifty acres had burned just before 5 pm. Aug. 13, a Facebook post from the forest service said. (This story has been updated to add more information.) This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: New wildfires prompt evacuations near Payson and Sedona A 21m multiplex cinema featuring one of the largest IMAX screens in north-west England has changed hands just over a year since it opened. Accompanied by a themed diner, the Backlot Cinema - which opened on 22 March 2024 - was built as part of the second phase of the Houndshill Shopping Centre in Blackpool. Independent chain Arc Cinemas will take over the attraction on Friday, according to Backlot director John Sullivan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blackpool had been without a mainstream cinema since the Odeon on Rigby Road closed in June 2023. Backlot built with the support of 5m from the government's Getting Building Fund. The balance came from council borrowing, plus a further 6m investment in the fit-out of the building, including the IMAX screen. Mr Sullivan said: "The Backlot has been a six-year labour of love and I'm proud of the vibrant community hub we've built. "Despite industry challenges, our team created something unique for Blackpool, and with Arc Cinemas taking the reins, I'm confident the cinema's future is in great hands." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blackpool Council said it was working with Arc, which earlier this year opened an eight-screen cinema in Preston's former indoor market area. Councillor Mark Smith, cabinet member for economy and built environment, said: "The new cinema not only brings more local people into the town centre, but it also supports other businesses and jobs in Blackpool." Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230. More on this story Related internet links TERRA ALTA, W.Va. (WBOY) Through the winding hills of Caddell Mountain, nestled in the center of Terra Alta, is Portland Coffeethe towns lone coffee shop, and everywhere you look inside, youre reminded of the towns rich history. The name dates back to the 1800s, when Terra Alta was originally known as Portland before being renamed. Whether youre stopping in for some baked goods, a little pick-me-up or just to hang out, Portland Coffee has it all. The menu is ever-growing. All of our baked goods are sourced from local bakers, so from Kingwood to Bruceton, we have bakers all around that bake for us, Barista Manager Bryson Dixon said. We do a lot of our more savory options in-house, like the pepperoni rolls, the bagels, the sausage gravy and biscuits and then the sweets are outsourced to other bakers that are local. Pepperoni rolls at Portland Coffee are made in-house by Dixon himself (WBOY Photo) Restaurant Road Trip: The Crazed Lemon Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The baked goods arent the only items on the menu sourced from the Mountain State. We have a coffee roaster thats also from West Virginia. He sources the beans from around the world, of course, and makes sure theyre high quality, so if theres any issue, they get sent back, Dixon said. Youll see that we have our global options, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Sumatra, things like that and then we have our blends, which are named for locations around Terra Alta and representative of the history of Terra Alta. Portland Coffee has a long list of house favorites ranging from hot and iced coffees, teas and more. Our tuxedo latte is the most recent and thats just a white chocolate and dark chocolate with a white chocolate and dark chocolate cold foam on top and a chocolate drizzle, Dixon said. Portland Coffees Tuxedo Latte (WBOY Photo) Portland Coffee has been around for a little over two years, and Dixon said the community has been very welcoming and supportive. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The regulars are great, I mean, they really are. The people that keep coming back make me confident that were doing the right thing, Dixon said. You can find Portland Coffee at 703 E State Avenue in Terra Alta. The shop is open from 6-11 a.m. Tuesday-Friday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday; its closed Sunday and Monday. Not in Preston County? Not a problem. Portland Coffee even has pods and bags available for customers online, and theyre even available on DoorDash. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Ahead of Donald Trumps summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, retired U.S. Army Gen. Wesley Clark has said it is vital for the president to convince the Russian leader that he cannot win the war in Ukraine. Speaking on The Record with Greta Van Susteren on Newsmax on Wednesday, Clark, a former Democratic presidential candidate in 2004, warned that Putin would not respond to conventional diplomatic threats. Weve made so many threats to Russia over the last six months about consequences, and they mostly get postponed, Clark said. Former presidential candidate and retired U.S. Army general Wesley Clark discusses the Ukraine war on Newsmax on Wednesday August 13 2025 (Newsmax) And so, I dont know I hope the consequences will be a restart of U.S. military assistance from the Trump administration to Ukraine. Because really, when you get right down to it, I think the only way youre going to really halt President Putins territorial ambitions is to convince him he cannot win. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He continued: Administration after administration has tried sanctions. Obama tried it. Biden tried it. It hasnt stopped anything and makes it more difficult. The Russians learn to live with it. And so putting sanctions on again it sounds rough and tough. It avoids the threat of use of force, but ultimately it doesnt accomplish much. As preparations for the Anchorage summit continue, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov has stated that the meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson will be a one-on-one between Trump and Putin, with translators present, and that sensitive matters will be discussed. In addition to the prospect of ending the war, which has raged since February 2022, enhanced economic cooperation and trade between the U.S. and Russia will also be on the table, Ushakov said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both leaders will take part in a news conference once the summit is concluded, he added, as well as wider talks with their delegations and a working breakfast. Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday for a hugely consequential summit (AFP/Getty) On Wednesday, Trump attended a virtual meeting with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, to discuss the goals of the summit and establish red lines that cannot be crossed. According to French President Emmanuel Macron, the American emphatically ruled out the prospect of Kyiv being invited to join NATO, a step that Moscow would have interpreted as a deliberate provocation. Trump himself warned afterwards that Russia would face very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire but hinted that a follow-up meeting could be swiftly arranged if Fridays summit proves a success. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky has since joined British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in London, with the latter reiterating: 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. Putin said on Thursday that Washington was making sincere efforts to resolve the conflict in Ukraine and suggested that a new deal on nuclear arms control between Moscow and Washington could be on the cards. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned Russia and Israel that they could be added next year to the list of parties suspected or considered responsible for sexual violence perpetrated by their troops. Source: Reuters Details: The head of the organisation said the warning came in response to "significant concerns regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence that have been consistently documented by the United Nations". This is stated in the organisations annual report, reviewed by Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the report, Guterres referred to cases of violence against genitals and prolonged forced nudity of prisoners, as well as cruel and degrading strip searches carried out for the purpose of interrogation and humiliation. The UN Secretary-General said he was "gravely concerned about credible information of violations by Russian armed and security forces and affiliated armed groups". This refers in particular to the treatment of 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," the report states. Background: Earlier, Ukrainians who had suffered sexual violence during the war appealed to the UN Secretary-General to include Russia in the list of perpetrator states. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Joining the White House Beat: PBS NewsHour named Liz Landers as its new White House correspondent. Landers-who begins her beat Monday, Sept. 15-joins PBS News from Scripps News, where she had been a national security correspondent since 2024. "I am thrilled to join the team of dedicated and highly respected journalists at PBS NewsHour," Landers said in a statement. "At this critical time in our nation's history, I look forward to covering the White House and this administration for public broadcasting's iconic nightly news program." D.C. Appointment: Hannah Brandt joined NewsNation as a Washington, D.C., correspondent. Brandt-who starts her new role Monday, Aug. 25-joins the news network from Nexstar Media Group's D.C. multimedia journalist team, where she was a reporter. She also worked for Nexstar stations in Topeka, Kan., and Harrisburg, Pa. Meanwhile, its sister digital publication, The Hill, announced that Lindsey Granger will join Robby Soave as a co-host of its flagship morning show, Rising, which is now available on Nexstar's DCNewsNow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New AI Role: CNN is heading into the artificial intelligence space with a new leader in place to tackle the burgeoning technology. Ryan Struyk was named director of AI innovation for the network. This newly created role will see Struyk lead CNN's efforts to integrate AI across its editorial and newsgathering operations, which also includes enhancing newsroom workflows and improving editorial decision-making. Struyk was most recently a supervising producer on State of the Union with Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. HANOVER TWP., LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) State police are offering a $5,000 reward to anyone who can help solve a 5-year-old homicide investigation. On August 09, 2020, calls concerning a shooting on Boland Avenue in Hanover Township were coming in. Police stated two men, Fernando Vasquez Vittini and Jose Carolos Matos, were shot while seated in a vehicle in front of a home on Boland Avenue. According to PSP, two suspects entered the backseat of the vehicle that Vittini and Matos were in, then shot the two victims. Police said Matos fled on foot, while Vittini drove away and died from his injuries at the intersection with South Main St. and St. Marys Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bystander injured during shooting between two men Both suspects fled the scene in a red Chevrolet Impala that a third suspect was driving. State police later recovered the suspected car involved. Anyone with information on the suspects is asked to contact the PSP Wilkes-Barre Station at 570-822-5400 or PSP Tips Toll Free at 1-800-472-8477. Callers to PSP Tips could be eligible for a cash reward worth $5,000 for information that leads to solving the homicide. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Earlier this month, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced hes cutting nearly $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority. Famously, mRNA technology is what led to safe and effective COVID vaccines less than a year after the start of the pandemic. The $500 million cuts to vaccine contracts will target COVID and flu research, but experts say the effects will stretch beyond this. These cancellations will make waves for other aspects of health within the United States and sow further distrust in science and medicine, experts told HuffPost. Kennedy has a history of anti-vaccine beliefs and has falsely linked vaccines to autism, a claim that has been debunked over and over. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked about the negative impacts of these cuts, Andrew Nixon, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services, told HuffPost, The COVID pandemic has long been over and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is applying the latest, gold-standard science and shifting investment for vaccine development in new vaccine technologies based on whole-virus inactivated vaccines, which offer a broader immune response and have a longer track record of safety and public acceptance. The statement goes on: mRNA technology received substantial investment through Operation Warp Speed, and HHS decision to wind down its mRNA vaccine development activities marks a necessary pivot in how we steward public health innovations in vaccines. This is a continuation of the Operation Warp Speed model of investing in technology with the most potential to help Americans. Doctors and scientists who spoke to HuffPost disagree with this decision for a multitude of reasons and want you to know that this will impact your health. First of all, RFK Jr.s reasons to pull back mRNA funding arent accurate, experts say. Four experts told HuffPost that Kennedys claims about mRNA vaccines arent accurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kennedy has said the mRNA vaccine cant keep up with COVID mutations, which is completely incorrect, said Lucky Tran, a scientist and public health communicator. Kennedy also claimed the vaccines dont work well against upper respiratory tract infections, which is absolutely wrong, said Dr. Paul Offit, the director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, who has published a Substack post debunking Kennedys mRNA claims. [Kennedy] has some ideas, some thoughts, that are just not scientifically accurate about vaccinations in general, added Dr. Bobby Mukkamala, the president of the American Medical Association. Kennedy also uses terms that dont apply to this kind of virus, and he sounds like he knows what hes talking about, he uses scientific terms, Offit said. But, once again, hes not right. Related: RFK Jr. Says The U.S. Will No Longer Fund Global Vaccine Alliance He shouldnt say anything. Really, just dont say anything just say Im doing it because I want to do it ... just be honest Im doing it because I dont like mRNA technology, because Im trying to firm up my political base, and I know that my base doesnt like mRNA technology, Offit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That would be a lot more honest than trying to give scientific reasons that are wrong, Offit said. An HHS spokesperson disputed that notion, saying that Kennedy bases his policy decisions on the latest gold standard science, guided by a team of highly qualified experts. These cuts mean we wont be prepared for the next pandemic. MRNA technology is what allowed for the development of the COVID vaccine in 2020. The hero of the COVID pandemic ... is NIH [the National Institutes of Health], and the reason that theyre the hero is in 2002-2003 when [SARS-CoV-1] raised its head again in China, NIH began working on a mRNA SARS-1 vaccine, Offit said. While SARS-CoV-1 never took off in the United States, it infected thousands of people in other parts of the world. As it spread, scientists in the United States researched how to make an mRNA vaccine for coronavirus in case it was needed (no vaccine was made or needed since it didnt impact the U.S.), Offit explained. So, when SARS-CoV-2 came around in 2020, scientists had previous research to work from when developing a COVID vaccine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With Kennedys $500 million funding cuts to BARDA, you lose a lot of that research development so that when the next pandemic comes in ... you wont have that information. So at the very least, were going to be less prepared, Offit said. No one wants to think about living through another pandemic, but it could happen, and mRNA technology allows scientists to quickly develop vaccines based on decades and decades of research, said Elisabeth Marnik, the chief science officer at Those Nerdy Girls, an online organization dedicated to sharing accurate health and science information. We know the technology works, we know the safety of the technology, and we can just tweak that one part, that mRNA sequence, to apply to whatever virus that were trying to tackle, she said. Cutting this research funding looking into how mRNA vaccines could work for these other respiratory viruses is sad, because, again, its going to make it harder for us to develop new vaccines, particularly for illnesses where we might need to do so quickly in the case of a future pandemic, Marnik said. RFK Jr. ordered $500 million in cuts to mRNA vaccine research. Illustration: HuffPost; Photo: Getty Images MRNA technology can be used for other medical treatments, too. Messenger RNA [mRNA], although its been vilified for political reasons, is really a molecule of life, and its a molecule of hope. Its a fundamental molecule that exists in all of our bodies and required for all life to exist, Tran said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In terms of technology, mRNA is one of the most promising technologies for preventing and treating not just COVID but any kind of disease that you can think of, Tran added. There are mRNA vaccines in clinical trials for things like HIV, cystic fibrosis, Alzheimers, diabetes and even certain kinds of cancer, Tran said. While the funding cuts target COVID and flu, the full scope is not clear, Tran added. And, either way, the cuts will have huge impacts on COVID and other disease research. But what people need to understand is that ... if you cancel research, even if its just for COVID or flu vaccine research, that built a lot of basic technology that you can use to treat other diseases. And so thats now under threat, explained Tran. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If someone is diagnosed with a cancer that doesnt have a standard treatment, its important to fund research thats finding new ways to treat that cancer, said Mukkamala. Just imagine all of the countless lives that we could save if we funded science and made sure this technology was continued to be supported, Tran said. Kennedys funding cuts will make the U.S. and the world more vulnerable to disease outbreaks and less able to treat chronic illnesses, Tran said. To cut the funding because you dont think its a good way to treat COVID is indirectly saying, I dont think its a good big way to treat anything, Mukkamala said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And, Kennedy has praised mRNA technology when used for certain things, Offit said. I think it is ironic that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hails the work that was done at our hospital, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, for that small child who had a liver enzyme defect, and that liver enzyme defect was ameliorated by providing him with the gene he needed ... so, we did a gene therapy on a little baby. Well, how was that gene therapy administered? With mRNA, Offit said. So, on the one hand, [Kennedy] constantly criticizes the mRNA technology as a platform, and then on the other hand, he hails its technology when its used for gene therapy, Offit noted. When asked for comment, HHS spokesperson Nixon said, HHS is continuing to invest in ongoing research on applications in cancer and other complex diseases. It further sows distrust in mRNA technology. According to Tran, targeting mRNA technology will create mistrust regarding mRNA-based technologies. (This comes at a time when vaccine hesitancy, in general, is at a high. Vaccination rates in kindergarteners are decreasing.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mistrust in mRNA has a chilling effect on all parties patients may be wary of safe mRNA treatments, researchers may be less likely to study mRNA if theyre tracking the funding instability and pharmaceutical companies, which are very risk-averse, may not want to pursue frequently politicized mRNA technology, Tran explained. This could be the difference between a patient receiving lifesaving treatment or that lifesaving treatment existing at all. Its going to instill uncertainty in general, in terms of, is the FDA going to even be willing to consider this technology? Are they going to have this bias, regardless of what the data says? Marnik added. Itll set America back as a leader in science. As projects are canceled, scientists may look to continue their research elsewhere, in places where it will be funded. Related: RFK Jr. Wants To Take COVID Shots Away From Pregnant People But You Can Fight Back I think that there are a number of people in this country who work on mRNA technology who will likely leave and go to other countries that are advancing the technology, including China and Germany and others, Offit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move to limit mRNA funding in the U.S. may benefit other countries that want to scoop up these researchers, he added. Theres a lot of things America does well. One of them is science. We are a beacon of science in this world. And I think that this dims the light, Offit noted. It will take time for projects to move overseas, said Tran, which will delay mRNA advancements. This could be deadly for folks with conditions that could benefit from these emerging treatments, Tran added. More, if there is a time when we need mRNA technology from another country, well be shopping in the yellow pages, said Mukkamala, and asking other countries what technology they have that we could use. Thats just not good as a leading country when it comes to research on this planet, added Mukkamala. Itll hurt the economy and cause job loss. Beyond health impacts, these funding cuts will likely mean job loss, too. Those grants that were canceled were paying for research positions, and maybe some of those people will find new jobs, but some of them might not be able to, because that money is gone, Marnik said. Theres going to be an economic factor to these funding cuts, she noted because not only is this money being used to further scientific progress and improve human health, but its also creating jobs and fueling local economies, and any type of cut is going to have impact on the economy. With so much impacting the economy right now, like Donald Trumps tariffs and more, its hard for folks to understand that these science funding cuts also have a big economic impact, Marnik said. There are things you can do to advocate for science funding. You dont have to sit back and watch as this scary reality unfolds. Instead, you can speak up in support of science. You can do this by calling your local elected officials and advocating for the funding of science, Tran said. Because I think at the end of the day ... biomedical research benefits everyone who [your elected officials] are meant to represent. There have been budgetary wins in the past after folks spoke up and marched in the name of science, he noted. Speaking up really does work, organizing does work and supporting that research really does work, Tran said. But I think even more basic than that is just talking about how amazing this technology is with your friends and family, building that trust, because I feel a lot of trust happens at the local level, like between your friends and family, Tran said. Let your family know youre getting the COVID shot and tell your friends about the potential advancements of mRNA technology, Tran said. There are these real conversations we can all have within our communities that will make a difference, Tran said. Related... Read the original on HuffPost A new legislative commission studying graduation rates and other ways to increase academic success for students in foster care held its first meeting on Aug. 13, 2025 in Providence at the Rhode Island State House. (Screenshot/Capitol TV) Rhode Islands foster kids had a high school graduation rate of 43% in 2024 the lowest in the state, lower even than students experiencing homelessness. A new legislative study commission is looking for ways to change that. It was not a large cohort of foster kids who could have graduated last year, said Rep. Julie Casimiro, a North Kingstown Democrat, at the commissions inaugural meeting Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was 178 students, Casimiro continued. If we cant get it right for 178 students to graduate with a high school education, then were not doing our job. The number represents a downward slide from the 2023 graduation data, when 51% of foster kids graduated. The 17-member volunteer panel officially titled the Special Legislative Commission to Study Educational Outcomes for Children in State Care was created through a resolution passed in May by the Rhode Island House of Representatives. Rep. Marie Hopkins, a Warwick Republican, is also on the commission, plus a mix of state officials, educators, and child welfare advocates. Casimiro, who sponsored the legislation to create the committee, chairs the group. Jeannine Nota-Masse, the superintendent of Cranston Public Schools, is the vice chair. The commission is charged with creating a final report for the General Assembly by July 1, 2026, and then dissolves on Aug. 15, 2026. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An analysis of state education department data in the 2025 Rhode Island KIDS COUNT factbook shows that the average four-year graduation rate was 84%, or nearly double the rate at which foster youth graduated. Students experiencing homelessness, which comprised 227 youth in all, also graduated at higher rates than foster kids at 59%. Students living in foster care also had the highest dropout rate in the state at 26%. Those numbers arent all that different from national averages: According to the National Foster Youth Institute, about 50% of foster kids graduate high school, compared to their peers who arent in state care. Those challenges can continue into postsecondary education, with the institute citing research that notes only about 3% to 4% of former foster kids acquire a four-year college degree. In a 2024 study published in the journal Remedial and Special Education, the studys sample of foster students averaged a 41% chronic absenteeism rate, compared to 26% for non-foster students. Foster students also failed courses at higher rates, averaging about five across their time in high school, and earned fewer credits. These numbers were even higher for foster students who had disabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comparable to other states or not, Casimiro said the states graduation numbers were beyond dreadful and also tinged with a sense of deja vu, since the state had previously formed a study commission to study educational outcomes for foster youth in 2012. I dont know whats not happening, Casimiro said. The adults in the room need to get their act together and work on doing better for this cohort of kids. We should be able to get this right. Its Rhode Island. All he did was sleep David Sienko, the director of the Rhode Island Department of Educations (RIDE) Office of Student, Community and Academic Supports, told his fellow panel members that the states data collection on foster youth has improved since that 2012 commission, with stronger linkage between RIDE and the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), which oversees foster care in the state. That includes a data dashboard for educators which tracks foster kids and is meant to help school administrators support these students. DCYF now verifies this data, and the mechanics of the data system have gotten more sophisticated in recent years, Sienko said. But he also acknowledged that the data is only valuable if people use it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Im a superintendent and I have two kids in my district that are in state care, what does that mean for me? Sienko said. What do I do as an educational leader to put those supports in place? Casimiro added that a survey conducted on schools use of this information saw only 15 districts respond. Some have the database in front of them, the superintendents, but theyre not sharing it at the building level, and thats where decisions are being made about these kids, Casimiro said. The adults in the room need to get their act together and work on doing better for this cohort of kids. We should be able to get this right. Its Rhode Island. Rep. Julie Casimiro, a North Kingstown Democrat Part of the confusion may come from the fact that administrators can be unaware that kinship care placement with relatives or close family friends is legally considered foster care in Rhode Island. That doesnt mean it has any less impact on kids, Casimiro shared an anecdote about a 17-year-old boy from North Kingstown she knows and has been working with. The boys mom lives in Atlanta and his dad is in and out of prison in Maryland, Casimiro said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He lives with his aunt, who works two jobs, and his sister just died of a fentanyl overdose, Casimiro continued. This kid is traumatized. Traumatized. He got into a fight at school because someone called him an inappropriate name. They sent him home from school for seven days, unsupervised. Unsupervised for seven days. He thought hes on vacation. All he did was sleep. Casimiro added, Now its not my job to work with him Now I am going to work with him, make sure that if I can drag him across that stage next June, Im going to do it. Hopkins said the commission needs to hear directly from people whove lived in or have been affected by the child welfare system. Casimiro promised a panel of kids and parents would attend an upcoming meeting. The commission also flagged transportation and funding as barriers for foster youth. Students can have trouble accessing programs that help academic outcomes, especially if they live far from their schools. And even when initiatives do exist to help them, reliance on short-term grants or federal dollars can make such programs hard to sustain without more lasting state-level commitments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katelyn Medeiros, the attorney who heads the Office of the Child Advocate, which is charged with oversight of DCYF, said Rhode Island should look to states that are getting it right as models. Hopkins agreed: I love the dont reinvent the wheel perspective. As much as I love the state, we tend to be huge innovators, and weve got to do everything bigger, better, newer. The panels next meeting is scheduled for Sept. 15. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SALT LAKE CITY (WPRI) The Rhode Island man who faked his own death to escape criminal charges has been found guilty of rape by a jury in Utah. Nicholas Alahverdian, 38, who also goes by Nicholas Rossi, was accused of sexually assaulting his girlfriend in Utah in 2008. Alahverdian faked his own death in 2020, with an online obituary claiming he died of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. But authorities later found him recovering from COVID-19 in a Scottish hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For years, Alahverdian fought extradition to the United States, drawing international attention. The five-day trial began Monday at the Matheson Courthouse shortly before 9:30 a.m. Mountain time. The jury was given stipulated facts, meaning both sides agreed they were true including that Alahverdian and Rossi are the same person, that he lived in Utah in 2008, and that he had a month-long relationship with the victim, who knew him as Rossi. The jury deliberated for more than seven hours before reaching a unanimous verdict just after 9 p.m. in Utah. The judge said Alahverdian will be sentenced on Oct. 20, and that he will be held pending sentencing. Samantha Dugan, Alahverdians defense attorney, said in her closing arguments that the prosecutions case was like buying a board game from a thrift store: it had missing parts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The missing pieces in this case are huge and troublesome, Dugan said. Dugan said it was not enough for the jury to decide Alahverdian was a bad boyfriend to the victim. 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. In his closing arguments for the prosecution, Deputy Salt Lake County District Attorney Clint 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also brought up the fact that 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, he said. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tim White (twhite@wpri.com) is Target 12 managing editor and chief investigative reporter and host of Newsmakers for 12 News. Connect with him on Twitter and Facebook. 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. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) There are more than 360 Rhode Islanders currently waiting for a kidney transplant, according to the American Kidney Fund. The organization recently worked with state lawmakers to craft legislation making it easier for people to become a donor. The Living Donor Bill, which passed in June, provides paid medical leave and job security for any full-time employee who donates. Jeff Zurowski of Hope, R.I., has been waiting on a kidney for eight long months. Born with an underperforming and problematic kidney that was removed in his teens, hes been living with only one kidney for most of his life. Now that the remaining kidney is failing, hes not really living much at all. A lot of my routines are sleep, doctors, do nothing for the rest of the day, he said. Watching myself on a daily basis and seeing how the health has declined and thinking, Will I still feel the same way as I do today tomorrow, or will it be worse?' Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His full-time job has become trying to find a donor. Hes posted flyers around town and is getting the word out on social media. There have been a few responses over the months, but no matches so far. Overall, it seems like things have kind of stalled as far as finding a donor, he admitted. 12 Health: RI study shows lifestyle changes can positively impact brain health The Living Donor Bill, co-sponsored by Central Falls Rep. Joshua Giraldo, might give someone the push they need to give the gift of life. The American Kidney Fund reached out to me with a situation that I felt was a win-win, Giraldo said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law provides paid medical leave to full-time employees who donate an organ or bone marrow. We heard testimony in our committee from an individual whod been waiting for a transplant [and] found someone who was willing to donate a kidney, but that person could not take that time off from work and couldnt miss out on those wages, so he had to create a whole separate fundraising campaign, Giraldo recalled. Now, those procedures, medical tests, surgeries and recovery for a maximum of 30 days for organ donation are covered under the states TCI program. The legislation also provides job protection to donors. Jeff Zurowski kidney donation flyer Not only was it a light in the dark for Zurowski, but a recognition by lawmakers that hes not just a number on a waiting list. Now hes speaking in terms of not if, but when that phone call comes, with this message for his future donor: Youre doing someone a huge favor. You could become their hero. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zurowskis best match is someone who is Type O blood and between the ages of 18 and 60. If you think youre a match and want to donate, you can reach him at 3100travels@gmail.com. You can also sign up to become a living organ donor here. BROWN HEALTH: Become a living kidney donor Watch the full interview next Tuesday on the free WPRI 12+ TV app. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com. AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) The Richmond County School System held a transportation job fair on Wednesday. The county is looking for bus drivers, mechanics, dispatchers and other transportation roles. Kenneth Johnson Jr., the Director of Human Resources for the Richmond County School System says while they are almost fully staffed with teachers, they are still in need of support staff. There are those who teach and those who support those who teach. Those employees are responsible for making sure that we get our precious cargo to school on time every day and to home on time every day said Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson says finding bus drivers is a local, regional and state wide issue. Finding folks who are willing to continue to serve in those bus driver positions knowing the challenges that come with taking care of those responsibilities. Its always something that were looking forward to filling and positions that sometimes are a little bit difficult for us to staff, Johnson said. He tells me bus drivers play a vital role not only for the school systems but for our community as well. When you think about operating a motor vehicle thats carrying the lives of 40 or 50 plus students, we need to make sure that they are individuals who are qualified, they have the proper licenses and certifications in order to do that work, Johnson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you are interested in working in transportation for the Richmond County School System you can find the link 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 WJBF. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) In-N-Out devotees will have to wait a bit longer before they can order a double-double animal style at the chains new location in Ridgefield, Washington. Fans of the restaurant had hoped the new Ridgefield Union Ridge Town Center location would open by mid-July, but that deadline has passed and the location is still a work in progress. In-N-Out Burger reveals tentative opening for Ridgefield drive-thru Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an Aug. 9 update, the city said it has been working closely with the company to ensure the long lines of traffic its drive thru is known to attract will be kept off of city roads. If the number of cars exceeds the space available on In-N-Outs lot, customers will not be permitted to join the line, according to the citys statement. To ensure the safety of all travelers and maintain emergency access, vehicles will not be permitted to park or line up on any public roadway, including I-5, its ramps, Pioneer Street, 56th Place, and Pioneer Canyon Drive, the statement said. This will be enforced by local and state law enforcement. In-N-Out construction in Ridgefield, Wash. Photo provided Aug. 13, 2025 by the City of Ridgefield. The city plans to have its staff monitor traffic conditions using live traffic cameras, which are also available to the public on its website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is ridiculous! Im not going to check cameras every time I want to leave my house and head towards the freeway, said one person in a Facebook comment. The city shouldve considered the ramifications of an In-N-Out before, not after the business is ready to open. Across the street from In-N-Outs new location is Costco, and the intersection they share is linked by a roundabout. Nearby residents have long voiced their concerns over the planning of the two projects. Can Ridgefield roads handle an In-N-Out, Costco combo? Citizens share concerns In-N-Out confirmed to KOIN 6 News that no opening date has been set, but they hope to be up and running by late September. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ridgefield City Manager Steve Stuart did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Last month, a massive earthquake struck in Russia. The tremor was an 8.8-magnitude, hitting off the remote coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula, sending all of Pacific Ocean communities on high alert for a possible tsunami. Luckily, the threat was minimal. However, following the earthquake in Russia, which was one of the strongest ever recorded, there were multiple aftershocks; the Krasheninnikov Volcano, also in Russia, erupted for the first time in 500 years; then, on Tuesday, August 12th, a sizable 6.3 magnitude earthquake rocked the eastern Indonesian region of Papua. There was no tsunami threat in the aftermath of that quake. With all this activity, some scientists are speculating that the notorious Ring of Fire the worlds most active seismic territory is heating up. Is The Big One looming? Potential threat for a catastrophic quake and subsequent mega-tsunami? Let's discuss. "What happened in Russia is a reminder of the similar forces at play in our backyard," Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, told Axios about the west coast. "Except we have more people and infrastructure in harm's way." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Bill Martin meteorologist and long-time Northern California surfer says in the video above: "Its not fearits awareness. The faults move inches each year, and eventually that built-up tension will release. This is just the way it is if you live on the West Coast." One tectonic plate is most in question, in terms of potential destruction and a mega-tsunami for the west coast of North America the Cascadia Subduction Zone. According to a recent study from the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, theres a 15% chance of a rupture in the Cascadia Subduction Zone in the next 50 years, and a 29% chance by the year 2100. Related: 1,000-Foot Tall Mega-Tsunami Could Hit West Coast, Experts Warn Looking back through history, a destructive earthquake has occurred in the subduction zone spanning from Northern California to British Columbia roughly once every 550 years. The last one was in 1700 325 years ago. So, the next one could be anytime soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more on the threat of tsunamis in the Pacific ampitheater, heres the National Weather Service: Tsunamis are among Earth's most infrequent hazards. But even though tsunamis do not occur very often, and most are small and nondestructive, they pose a major threat to coastal communities, particularly in the Pacific. A tsunami can strike any ocean coast at any time. There is no season for tsunamis. We cannot predict where, when or how destructive the next tsunami will be. However, while tsunamis cannot be prevented, there are things you can do before, during and after a tsunami that could save your life and the lives of your family and friends. In other words, been nice knowin ya! Just kiddingstay alert; have a plan. Related: 16-Foot Tsunami Waves Detonate on Russian Coast (Watch) This story was originally reported by Surfer on Aug 14, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Surfer as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Thousands of people have had their homes seized after receiving controversial no-fault eviction notices despite Labour pledging to abolish them, new data shows. Labour said in its election manifesto it would abolish Section 21 eviction notices immediately after winning the election. A year on, and the relevant legislation still progressing through parliament means that the ban is still not in effect. According to Ministry of Justice figures released on Thursday, 11,400 households received no-fault evictions by bailiffs in the year to June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of bailiff evictions is an eight per cent rise on the previous year, continuing a trend of a heightened use of the notices. Housing charity Shelter said it is unconscionable that renters continue to be marched out of their homes by bailiffs a year after Labours election victory. Shelter described no-fault evictions as one of the leading causes of homelessness, with landlords able to evict tenants with little notice and no reason required (Getty Images) It warned that nearly 1,000 households could be evicted from their homes by bailiffs every month until the ban on the notices is finally put in place. Section 21 notices grant landlords the power to evict tenants from their properties at two months notice without needing to give any reason. Former prime minister Theresa May first announced the Conservatives intention to abolish Section 21 notices in April 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shelter described no-fault evictions as one of the leading causes of homelessness. Mairi MacRae, its director of campaigns and policy, said: "It is unconscionable that more than a year after the government came to power, thousands of renters continue to be marched out of their homes by bailiffs because of an unfair policy that the government said would be scrapped immediately. For far too long, tenants lives have been thrown into turmoil by the rank injustice of no-fault evictions. At the whim of private landlords, thousands of tenants are being left with just two months to find a new home, plunging them into a ruthless rental market and leaving many exposed to the riptide of homelessness. Deputy prime minister and housing secretary Angela Rayner has spearheaded Labours Renters Rights Bill (PA Wire) The governments Renters Rights Bill, sponsored by the Ministry of Housing, is currently in its final stages. It is expected to pass before the end of the year, or early 2026 at the latest. Alongside abolishing Section 21 notices, it would give tenants a 12-month protected period at the beginning of their tenancy, alongside increasing the notice requirement for landlords to evict on other grounds from two to four months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bill would also provide protection against backdoor eviction, where tenants are effectively pushed out by above-market rent increases, by giving them greater powers to challenge them. Housing charity Crisis has called on the government to bring forward the legislation and name a date when it will be implemented. Matt Downie, chief executive at Crisis, said: Despite good intentions from the Westminster government, thousands of people are still being unjustly evicted from their homes and threatened with or even forced into homelessness. The new data comes after Labour MP Rushanara Ali resigned her role as homelessness minister last week (UK Parliament) The new data comes after Labour MP Rushanara Ali recently resigned her role as homelessness minister following reports she gave tenants in a property she owned four months notice to leave, before relisting the property with a 700 rent increase just weeks later. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Such a move would likely not be allowed under the Renters Rights Bill, which is set to introduce new protections for tenants, including banning landlords who evict tenants in order to sell their property from relisting it for rent for six months. A Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government spokesperson said: No one should live in fear of a Section 21 eviction and these new figures show exactly why we will abolish them through our Renters Rights Bill, which is a manifesto commitment and legislative priority for this government. Were determined to level the playing field by providing tenants with greater security, rights and protections in their homes and our landmark reforms will be implemented swiftly after the bill becomes law. Wendover Road is closed near Providence Road due to a massive tree that fell in the middle of the roadway Thursday morning. Recent persistent rains have caused multiple trees to fall in the area. ALSO READ >> Storms cause power outages in southeast Charlotte The tree came crashing down around 3:15 a.m. It is blocking the entire roadway near Cotswold. Barricades have been put up to block off a portion of the road. Drivers are urged to find an alternate route while crews work to clear the tree. Click here for live traffic maps and alternate routes >>> VIDEO: How to catch a dying tree before it falls ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) A new report has been released ahead of the school year, showing that Roanoke City elementary school students are making encouraging gains in their health and wellness. The Roanoke Valley Community Healthy Living Index is a triennial, citywide survey tracking key health indicators among students in grades K5. The index is an initiative of Roanoke Colleges Center for Community Health Innovation. Since 2017, it has offered a detailed picture of childrens health in the city, tracking changes in obesity rates, physical activity, nutrition habits, and neighborhood supports for healthy living. Officials say its latest findings show notable improvements on several fronts, including: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Childhood obesity rates are dropping, returning to pre-pandemic levels (25% of elementary school students) after rising during the COVID-19 crisis. More students are walking or biking to school (21% of elementary students), a sign that healthy habits are being incorporated into daily routines. Families report stronger neighborhood support for healthy lifestyles, with 61% stating that there is a culture of physical activity in their community and 59% reporting that neighbors took action in the past year to improve health or safety. On the whole, were seeing good progress, said Dr. Liz Ackley, a professor at Roanoke College and director of its Center for Community Health Innovation. Nutrition behaviors are stable and generally good, and more residents report access to healthy food. One notable trend that keeps showing up in the data is families are asking for more resources close to home, she added. Thats happening at the same time the city is doubling down on investing in vibrant neighborhood hubs, like Melrose Plaza. That kind of alignment between community voices and policymakers means were moving forward together in the right direction, which we love to see. New Melrose Plaza hopes to bring needed services to Roanoke community Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say the index was designed to share actionable data that can inform the work of local leaders, educators, and community groups focused on improving neighborhood health. Its insights contributed to the community-driven planning process for Melrose Plaza, a new neighborhood center that includes a grocery store, wellness clinic, learning center, and other vital resources. According to researchers, other key findings in the report include strong approval for school lunches and nutrition programs, with 70% of families being satisfied or very satisfied with school meals, and 87% reporting that school programs helped boost their childs understanding of healthy eating. Most families reported that they felt their neighborhood was safe for active recreation. However, more than half (55%) expressed concern about speeding cars. Traffic hazards and limited pedestrian infrastructure were the most frequently cited barriers to exercising or playing outdoors. A majority of children do not engage in the recommended amount of physical activity, according to the report. Only 26% reported being active five or more times per week. In a series of open-ended survey questions, families requested more parks, sidewalks, and recreational facilities. Easier access to food that is not only healthy but also affordable was another common request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of Virginias largest indoor sports complexes will be in Pulaski County This is a strong guidepost for future strategies and action, Ackley said. By working together across government, nonprofit, and neighborhood groups, we can help build communities that support healthier, more active lives for all families. Data for the new report were collected between September 2024 and March 2025 from household surveys and FitnessGram assessments conducted in physical education classes. Three-fourths of students (74%) completed the FitnessGram test. Eight percent of student households responded to the survey. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv. ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) Roanoke has been nominated as a Best Destination for Fall Colors by USA Today 10best. A total of twenty destinations are competing for the title over the next four weeks. According to officials Roanoke is currently ranked number one, followed by: Upper Peninsula of Michigan Hot Springs, Arkansas Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia Potter-Tioga, Pennsylvania White Mountains, New Hampshire Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania Adirondacks, New York Stowe, Vermont The Berkshires, Massachusetts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Star City officials say Roanoke is the largest city along the Appalachian Trail, offering a variety of ways to view the fall foliage. With over 1,000 miles of trails that include McAfee Knob and mountain biking at Carvins Cove, Roanoke is especially appealing to outdoor travelers. According to Visit Virginias Blue Ridge, Roanoke typically sees peak fall colors is October into early November. You can vote for Roanoke once a day 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 WFXRtv. Aug. 14ROCHESTER Nearly $100,000 in additional settlements tied to collected development fees will be reviewed by the Rochester City Council on Monday. The settlements with two businesses Windamere Woods, LLC, and Billman-Orr, LLC will be added to nearly $676,000 in payments distributed to nine companies, which were approved by the council on June 16. While no additional court claims were filed, Rochester City Attorney Michael Spindler-Krage said litigation threats were made following a 2022 lawsuit filed by Tap House Real Estate, LLC , which ended with a $245,000 settlement earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Tap House lawsuit stemmed from city fees connected to a transportation improvement district policy, which led the company to pay $102,500 for public street development related to its Tap House West End location at 2365 Commerce Drive NW. The 2004 policy was created to address the cost of public infrastructure for new commercial and residential development amid city growth. As developers sought to speed up street construction and other infrastructure, the city lacked funds to complete the work alongside other maintenance efforts throughout the city. The city discontinued the collection of transportation improvement district fees in 2024. Following the Tap House settlement, the City Council held a closed session related to other potential settlements, and the latest proposed agreements are two of three claims presented to the city in March, according to a report prepared by Spindler-Krage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The remaining matter cannot be settled at this time in light of a notable difference in the positions of that developer and the city," the report states. "Discussions with that party will continue, but counsel for the city and the two other parties to this proposed settlement agreement believe it would be prudent and fair to settle their claims now." If the council approves the agreements, the proposed settlements will provide $58,783 to Windamere Woods and $40,913 to Billman-Orr. The payments are expected to be paid from existing transportation improvement district funds, which Spindler-Krage said otherwise would help fund future public infrastructure construction in the city. The City Council will consider the proposed settlement agreements during its 6 p.m. meeting Monday in council chambers of the city-county Government Center, 151 Fourth St. SE. Aug. 14The mayor of Rock Falls said the city's police department is "running smooth" after the father of a Rock Falls murder victim called for the chief's resignation in June, saying poor leadership led to investigative errors that officers testified to during court proceedings in May. "I think the mayor of Rock Falls has forgotten who he works for," said Dan Gordon, father of Daniel "DJ" Gordon, who was killed Feb. 14 in Rock Falls. "This needs to be changed, and [Mayor Rod Kleckler] has to be the one to change it." I think people should show up" to city meetings, call their aldermen "and demand change," Gordon said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kleckler told Shaw Local that he, with the consent of the Rock Falls City Council, has the power to fire the police chief, but the city of Rock Falls is "not agreeing" with the assertion that officers mishandled aspects of the Feb. 14 murder investigation. [ Rock Falls murder victim's father wants police chief to resign, says chief to blame for investigative errors ] Police were called about 2 a.m. Feb. 14 to the 600 block of West 20th Street in Rock Falls to find DJ Gordon, 27, unresponsive and suffering multiple abdominal stab wounds. On May 22, Kyle Cooper, 36, of Rock Falls, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of second-degree murder and was given the maximum 20-year sentence. Kleckler said that means "everything's closed on my end." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gordon's family "should be satisfied," Kleckler said. That sentence is "as good as you can expect." Originally, Cooper was charged with one count of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated battery. First-degree murder carries a minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum of life in prison, according to 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-20. The case was headed toward trial until May 14, when Cooper's defense attorney, Jim Mertes of Sterling, announced that a plea agreement had been reached. That announcement followed several court hearings at which Mertes made arguments to discredit the Rock Falls Police Department's investigation. Three Rock Falls officers testified that several protocol violations were made at the scene, such as not processing a vehicle for evidence and allowing witnesses into the crime scene, among other things. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [ Rock Falls man's murder trial canceled day before jury selection when attorneys announce plea deal ] "I stand by our investigation. I stand by the work of the investigators," Rock Falls Police Chief David Pilgrim told Shaw Local in June. "We have a great police department," and "our police chief does a fine job," Rock Falls 1st Ward Alderman Bill Wangelin told Shaw Local. "I know these people lost a son," but in the department's handling of the scene, there were a lot of "very positive" things, such as their "immediate investigation" and calling "other departments to help investigate," Wangelin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Rock Falls City Council met June 17 four days after Gordon's family asked for Pilgrim's resignation in a Shaw Local article. That topic was not addressed by any city official at that meeting. "I have not been to a meeting where anyone talked about" the investigation or the resignation request, 2nd Ward Alderman Marshall Doane told Shaw Local. "I don't foresee the city coming out with a stance on it just so there's less out there for the public to read and less talk about this, so that they have less of a mess to sweep under the rug," Doane said. The city's police and fire committee canceled its scheduled meetings in June and July. The committee meets monthly to approve equipment purchases and go over a list of both departments' calls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "What was [the council] doing that was more important than public safety that night? Clearly, that's not the highest priority," Gordon said. Those meetings were canceled because "there was nothing really to discuss," said Wangelin, the committee's former chairman. The committee, appointed by Kleckler, was recently restructured. It's now led by 3rd Ward Alderman Steve Dowd. Its members are Doane, 3rd Ward Alderman Nathan Stahr and 4th Ward Alderwoman Cathy Arduini, city Business Superintendent Michelle Conklin said. Dowd told Shaw Local that "we have never talked about" this situation in committee meetings, and he was not aware of the resignation request or the investigation's errors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'll bring it up at the next meeting," Dowd said. The city also has a police and fire commission, required by state law. It meets as needed to discuss personnel issues and oversees hiring for both departments. The three-person board is appointed by Kleckler. Former Alderman Brian Snow was named chair of the commission in May. Since then, the commission has met once and did not discuss this matter, but Snow said, "I am educating myself on this case." "I believe our police department has done a fine job representing the city of Rock Falls," Snow said. Roofers help out Gwinnett homeowner who was allegedly bilked out of his insurance money A Gwinnett homeowner received a new roof without having to pay anything extra out of pocket after a roofer allegedly took $11,000 for a job but only left a tarp. Retro Roofers learned about the homeowners plight from Channel 2 Action News a few weeks ago and decided to offer their services to rectify the situation. The homeowners faith was restored when Retro Roofers, led by William Korn, stepped in to replace the roof at a significant discount. This action followed reports that Alexander Gayle allegedly collected insurance money for a new roof but failed to complete the work. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] I want to help this guy out, William Korn told Channel 2 Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson. We want to advocate for this roofing industry out here in Georgia and take down these guys that are just taking advantage of folks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brandon Ford of Retro Roofers advised, I would encourage people to not pay upfront. If a roofing contractor cant afford to buy materials to get them on site and pay for them on a job, that should be a huge red flag. The initial incident involved the homeowner paying Gayle 75% of the jobs cost upfront, only to receive excuses instead of a completed roof. This led the homeowner to report the situation to the police last month. An arrest warrant for theft remains active for Gayle, who has not yet been apprehended. The replacement roof was funded by the remaining insurance money that had not been paid to the previous contractor, along with a significant discount provided by Retro Roofers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Korn noted the homeowners situation as a mix of bad and good fortune, stating, He had the worst luck and the best luck all at the same time. Were going to take care of him. The proactive efforts of Retro Roofers not only provided the homeowner with a new roof but also highlighted the importance of vigilance when hiring contractors. This case serves as a reminder to homeowners to be cautious with upfront payments and to ensure cancellation policies are clearly stated in contracts. TRENDING STORIES: [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] NewsNation National Correspondent Robert Sherman has found himself on the front lines of some of the worlds biggest stories: from Ukraine to Israel and across the United States. He shares what hes seeing on the ground. Subscribe to his newsletter: Frontlines with Robert Sherman here. I sat down at the conference room table as a technical assistant asked me what language I wanted my headset tuned to. English, I replied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man flipped through the channels on a small receiver sitting atop the table. Satisfied, he handed me the earpiece and moved on to the next person. I was one of about 20 journalists invited to meet with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week. I made my way over to the Presidential Palace, where my phones, wallet and practically everything else in my pockets except a notebook and pen were confiscated. The conference room table was made of wood and was light in color. The room was an off-white, adorned with golden decor and detailing. Reporters sat there quietly, flipping through their notes. Suddenly, the door opened, and in walked Zelenskyy. He put his head down and made a beeline for the open seat at the table, which was reserved for him, sat down, muttered something in Ukrainian, and immediately began ticking off battlefield assessments and statistics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kharkiv, we are holding, Zelenskyy said. Sumy, more or less positive. Donetsk, thats where we have problems, he said. The night before, it was widely reported that a small unit of Russian troops had pierced the Ukrainian front. The incident was causing concern on the ground among the locals, especially considering negotiations were scheduled to soon kick off in Alaska. Some have already been located partly eliminated, partly taken prisoner, Zelenskyy said. The rest will also be found and destroyed in the near future. I saw a tense leader that morning with my own two eyes. Thats how many on the ground here in Ukraine feel today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tomorrow in Alaska, two world leaders will sit down face-to-face and discuss the future of a country thousands of miles away which will notably be absent from this round of talks. Also on the outside looking in are the Europeans. Its no surprise we saw Zelenskyy in Germany yesterday, meeting with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and in London today with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. American Airlines rolls out new perk for flyers President Donald Trump has said he wants to sit down, face-to-face with the Russian leader to determine if hes actually serious about reaching a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was asked if Russia would face any consequences if Putin doesnt agree to stop the war. There will be very severe consequences, Trump said in response. However, if Friday is a success, the door is open for potentially all three heads of state to soon be together in the same room. 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 Zelenskiy and myself, if theyd like to have me there, Trump said. Thats when the issue of territories will likely be brought up in meeting No. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its already a tense topic here, especially as Russia has already made gains in the East, and Ukraine anticipates a large-scale offensive will take hold sometime shortly after the Alaska meeting. Across all directions this month, they will try to demonstrate some kind of advance in order to exert political pressure on Ukraine, seeking certain concessions, Zelenskyy said. And I want them to know that we understand this and that our military will be preparing for it. Zelenskyy told the group of reporters that, in total, he believes about 30,000 of the 53,000 estimated Russian troops in Sumy will be redeployed. Ukraine anticipates that Russia plans to send roughly 15,000 troops toward Zaporizhzhia, 7,000 to Pokrovsk, and 5,000 to Novopavlivka. In essence, the Russians believe they have found a weak spot in the Ukrainian line and intend to hit it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the Kremlin appeared ready to up the pressure, Zelenskyy was less confident that Russia wants a deal. I told my colleagues, the U.S. president and our European friends, that Putin definitely does not want peace, Zelenskyy said. 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. Thats how many feel here in Ukraine, as the bear and the eagle are set to collide Friday. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily of NewsNation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (FOX40.COM) The Roseville Fire Department responded to a vegetation fire on Wednesday near Royal Gorge Loop and Rocky Mountain Way. Video Above: A.I. wildfire detection and tracking While no structures were threatened, the fire reportedly jumped to Blue Oaks, 20 minutes after a unit arrived at the scene, according to the Roseville Fire Department. Residential fire reported in Vacaville Firefighters were able to stop forward progress but remained on scene for extensive mop-up of the hot spots throughout the area, the Roseville Fire Department said. The fire was mapped at 42.4 acres. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. 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, a neighborhood in Queens, New York, and he relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program commonly known as food stamps and odd jobs to make ends meet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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) Veterans depend on SNAP 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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. Missouri State Climatologist Zack Leasor examines weather reports to assess drought from his office in Columbia on May 29 (Harshawn Ratanpal/KBIA). After a spring and summer of wet conditions throughout almost the entire state, drought is returning to Missouri. About 10% of Missouri is now classified as abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor, a map that tracks drought and updates weekly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We hadnt had a week in July or August with a map that had no (drought) since 2019, so it was almost kind of rare to have that little drought concern across the whole state for what we see there, State Climatologist Zack Leasor said. But if you look at the past 30 days, there are some spots that are starting to dry out. Most of the dryness is appearing in the southern part of the state. While the map as only recorded dryness in the state for about a week, Leasor said he thinks some areas, particularly in the southeast Missouri Bootheel, have been drier for longer. As state climatologist, Leasor is tasked with drafting recommendations for Missouris weekly drought assessment. When he was in the region last week, he saw drier conditions than what the Drought Monitor had been reflecting. Thats because drought assessment involves a variety of factors including rainfall, streamflow and soil moisture and theres some data gaps in the Bootheel. (The Bootheel) is really characterized by high concentration of agriculture, but also its characterized by really cheap access to groundwater that recharges quite frequently, Leasor said. So as a result, you have a lot of irrigated agriculture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By irrigating their land with more water, farmers can cause the data obtained from soil gauges to be unreliable, Leasor said. In addition to that, the Bootheel doesnt have a lot of natural hydrology, he said. When we talk about lakes or river systems there, a lot of it is kind of engineered, so not a lot of stream monitoring. Leasor is involved in a project to install more soil moisture gauges across the state through a collaboration between the University of Missouri and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. This story was originally published by KBIA. Update as of 2:45 p.m. August 14: Repair work continues at the site. Teams from National Grid will be there into the evening as it is a big fix. Then, once the repair is completed, National Grid will go customer-to-customer to turn on service to their gas-fueled appliances. This part of the process is time-consuming as it requires National Grid to actually go in and touch every stove, furnace, water heater, etc., and relight their pilots. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All lanes on Interstate 690 westbound, between Exit 15 (Milder Avenue) and the Milder Avenue bridge, are open. Additionally, the I-690 off-ramp to Exit 15 (Midler Ave) is open. Update as of 12:20 p.m. August 14: The I-690 westbound off-ramp to Exit 15 (Milder Avenue) has reopened. Original Story: SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) There has been a strike to a gas line in Syracuse, New York. So far, the only information is that the Syracuse Fire Department has been dispatched to the area of Burnet and Midler Avenues in response to a third-party strike of a gas line on August 14, 2025. Construction crews struck the gas line, causing the leak.\ The crews responded and evacuated businesses and homes in the immediate area. There were no injuries reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A statement from the NYSDOT Deputy Director Michael Ryan explains: This morning, a contractor working on the Interstate 81 Viaduct Project along Interstate 690 between Exit 15 (Milder Avenue) and the Midler Avenue bridge in the City of Syracuse inadvertently ruptured a gas line. NYSDOT immediately halted work and notified emergency services about the incident. Out of an abundance of caution, the Syracuse Fire Department evacuated three residences, two along Nichols Avenue and one on Burnet Avenue. Gas service to a handful of area businesses, including Lowes, Golden Corral, and Broadview Federal Credit Union, was also interrupted. No injuries were reported, and NYSDOT is coordinating with National Grid to repair the gas line as quickly as possible. In the meantime, Interstate 690 westbound will be reduced to one lane between Exit 16N-S (Thompson Road) and Exit 14 (Teall Avenue) in the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, while repairs continue. Additionally, the I-690 westbound off-ramp to Exit 15 (Milder Avenue) will be closed today, Thursday, August 14. Safety is always NYSDOTs top priority, and the Department is reviewing this incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They controlled the scene, and National Grid responded to make repairs and ensure safety. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR. WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Russell John Binion, a cherished husband, father and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, at the age of 78. Born on May 3, 1947, in Warren, Ohio, Russells life was marked by his deep love for his family, his unwavering faith and his passion for the great outdoors. Find obituaries from your high school Russell graduated from Lordstown High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after began a long and dedicated career at the General Motors Lordstown Assembly Plant. His dedication and work ethic earned him the respect of his colleagues throughout his years of service. Upon his retirement, Russell continued to apply his handiness and creativity to various projects, always willing to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends. Married to the love of his life, Dixie Dunbar Binion, of 56 years, Russell was a devoted husband who found his greatest joy in the company of his wife. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter and shared adventures. He was a loving father to his two sons, Arnold and Jeffrey Binion, whose lives were deeply influenced by their fathers strength, integrity and kindness. Russells Christian faith was the cornerstone of his existence. He lived his beliefs through his actions, embodying the love and compassion that he held in his heart for others. His faith community benefitted greatly from his participation and support, as he was always ready to extend a helping hand or a word of encouragement. An avid outdoorsman, Russells love for hunting and fishing was more than just a hobby, it was a reflection of his profound appreciation for nature and the serenity it provided. His happiest moments were often found in the quiet of the woods or by the waters edge, with a fishing rod in hand and the company of fellow enthusiasts or family members who shared his interests. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russells life was a testament to the qualities that best describe him: handy, faith-filled and loving. His ability to fix or create almost anything with his hands was matched only by his capacity to mend hearts and build relationships. His deep, abiding love for his family and friends was evident in every interaction and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. As we bid farewell to Russell John Binion, we remember a man whose life was a beacon of light and a source of strength. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him, yet his spirit will continue to inspire us. Russells life journey was one of purpose, love and faith and his memory will be treasured forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind. Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m., on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Lake Milton Baptist Temple, followed by a service to be held at noon with Pastor Joseph Griffis officiating. Interment will be in the Lordstown Cemetery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arrangements are being handled by the Bernard P. Borowski Memorial Home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Russell John Binion, please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Sunday, August 17 at the following approximate times: 6:27 p.m. on WYTV and 6:58 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. The Russians attacked Ukraine with two S-300/400 anti-aircraft missiles and 45 Shahed-type loitering munitions and various types of decoy drones on the night of 13-14 August. Source: Ukraine's Air Force on Telegram Details: The drones are reported to have attacked frontline areas in Donetsk and Chernihiv oblasts, while the missiles targeted Sumy Oblast. Early reports indicate that, as of 09:00, Ukrainian air defence units had shot down and jammed 24 Shahed-type UAVs and various types of decoy drones in Ukraines north and east. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twenty-one UAVs were recorded hitting 12 locations. The aerial attack has been repelled by Ukrainian aircraft, electronic warfare units, unmanned systems units and mobile fire groups from the Ukrainian defence forces. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! (Reuters) -Russia's justice ministry said on Thursday it had designated the French-based international press freedom organisation Reporters without Borders an undesirable organisation. Russia regularly labels organisations it says undermine its national security as "undesirable". The designation means Russian citizens working with or funding such groups face up to five years in prison. Previously designated organisations include U.S. government-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, international environmental organisation Greenpeace and London-based Amnesty International. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Founded in France in 1985, Reporters without Borders (RSF) advocates for journalists and against censorship worldwide. RSF did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The group ranked Russia 171st out of 180 countries in its World Press Freedom Index this year, and has listed 50 journalists who are detained in the country. (Reporting by Lucy Papachristou; editing by Giles Elgood) Russia made its biggest 24-hour advance into Ukraine in a year as US President Donald Trump prepared to meet his Russian counterpart. Data from the Institute for the Study of War showed the Russian army took control of 40 square miles of Ukrainian territory, an offensive that comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faces one of the most perilous moments of his tenure: Weakened domestically after public pressure forced him to backtrack on an anti-corruption law, Zelenskyy has been sidelined abroad, having failed to secure an invite to tomorrows meeting between the US and Russian presidents. Americans are aware this is a moment of weakness for Zelenskyy and theyre using it when they most need it, an expert told the Financial Times. Russia appears to be preparing to test its new nuclear-armed, nuclear-powered cruise missile just days before Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, Reuters reported on Aug. 14, citing two U.S. researchers and an unnamed security source. The talks scheduled for Aug. 15 between the two leaders will be the first face-to-face meeting since the start of Trump's second term. Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth of the CNA research organization told Reuters that Planet Labs' satellite imagery taken in recent weeks shows extensive activity at the Pankovo test site on the Novaya Zemlya archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The imagery reportedly reveals equipment, personnel, ships, and aircraft associated with earlier tests of the 9M730 Burevestnik, known to NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. The undisclosed Western security source confirmed to the outlet that Russia is preparing a Burevestnik test. Lewis said a test could occur this week, potentially overshadowing the Aug. 15 meeting in Alaska, where Putin and Trump are expected to discuss Ukraine, economic cooperation, and global security. The White House did not address the possibility of a missile test, and the Pentagon, CIA, and Russia's Defense Ministry declined to comment, according to Reuters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has previously described the Burevestnik as "invincible" to missile defenses, with an almost unlimited range and unpredictable flight path. Analysts say the program has gained importance for Moscow since Trump announced plans in January to develop the Golden Dome U.S. missile defense shield, though experts question the missile's reliability and warn of potential radioactive fallout. Reuters reported that Planet Labs imagery showed stacks of shipping containers, cranes, and a helicopter at the launch site, as well as two radar-equipped aircraft parked at Rogachevo military airfield in Novaya Zemlya since mid-July. Vessel-tracking data also indicated a cargo ship linked to earlier tests was bound for Novaya Zemlya this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Norway's military told Reuters the Barents Sea is a "prime location for Russian missile tests" and noted indications of "preparations for test activities," without confirming the type of munitions. Notices to mariners and airmen suggest a possible launch window from Aug. 9 to Aug. 22. The Burevestnik, described by the International Institute for Strategic Studies as a developmental nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile, could give Russia a unique intercontinental-range strike capability if it overcomes significant technical hurdles, including a history of failed tests and a 2019 accident that killed several nuclear specialists. Designed to fly at very low altitudes for up to 20,000 km (12,400 miles), the missile could evade air defenses and strike targets from anywhere in Russia. Read also: Russia unveils delegation, schedule for Putin-Trump Alaska meeting Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Fallen debris from Ukrainian drones caused a fire at an oil refinery in Russia's Volgograd, the governor said on Thursday. "Firefighters quickly began extinguishing the fire. According to preliminary data, there were no casualties," Andrey Bocharov said on the Telegram. Lukoil, an owner of the refinery, has not yet responded for a Reuters request to comment the attack. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's defence ministry said air defence systems had intercepted and destroyed 44 Ukrainian drones overnight, including nine over Volgograd region. (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's defence ministry said on Thursday that its forces had struck a number of Ukrainian missile plants, weapons design bureaus and rocket fuel productions enterprises with missiles and drones in July. Russian forces destroyed a number of Western missile defence systems - including Patriot launchers and fire control radar in the Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy regions - that had been deployed to defend the plants, the ministry said. "An attempt by the Kyiv regime, together with its Western partners, to organise the production of missiles to carry out attacks deep into the territory of the Russian Federation was thwarted," the ministry said. (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) Editor's Note: This item has been updated with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov's statement. Russian President Vladimir Putin's meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska will begin at 11:30 a.m. local time on Aug. 15 with a one-on-one conversation in the presence of interpreters, Putin's aide Yuri Ushakov said. Trump's planned meeting with Putin in Alaska will be the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since the start of Trump's second term. The high-stakes summit is part of Washington's effort to help end the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russian delegation will include Ushakov, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, and Russian Direct Investment Fund head Kirill Dmitriev, the advisor said. Speaking to reporters on Aug. 14, Ushakov said the talks will take place at the U.S. Air Force's Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson and that the summit program has been finalized. The discussions will be followed by a working breakfast, and their duration will depend on how the conversation develops. The negotiations in a wider format will follow a "five-on-five" structure. Ushakov said the U.S. side has finalized its delegation list but left it to Washington to announce. The Russian delegation is expected to depart for Moscow immediately after the meeting concludes. The central topic of the summit will be a settlement of the war in Ukraine, though economic cooperation and global security will also be discussed, according to the aide. Ushakov said the Kremlin views it as symbolic that the meeting will take place "near the graves of Soviet pilots in Alaska." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin's advisor added that Russia sees untapped potential in U.S.-Russia trade and economic ties. According to the Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, no documents are expected to be signed following the summit. He mentioned that the two sides will later outline the scope of agreements that they will be able to achieve. Peskov also said that it would be a mistake to "predict the results of the Russia-U.S. summit." Trump has described the Alaska talks during an Aug. 11 press conference 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Volodymyr Zelensky has been in close contact with European leaders ahead of the summit. On Aug. 13, Zelensky held a video call with Trump and European leaders, during which Trump pledged to make a ceasefire in Ukraine one of his priorities in talks with Putin. 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. French President Emmanuel Macron, who took part in the conversation, said that the U.S. is prepared to offer Ukraine security guarantees once peace is established. The coalition of European leaders, which also includes British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Merz, reaffirmed its readiness to provide such guarantees, including plans to deploy a reassurance force after hostilities cease. 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. Russian attacks killed at least eight people and injured at least 18, including children, across multiple Ukrainian oblasts over the past 24 hours, local officials reported on Aug. 14. Russia launched 45 Shahed-type drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as well as two S-300/400 missiles overnight, Ukraine's Air Force said. Ukrainian air defenses reportedly destroyed or disabled 24 drones in the north and east of the country. In Kherson Oblast, four people were killed and six injured in drone and artillery strikes targeting residential areas and infrastructure, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said. The attacks damaged more than 100 houses, a gas pipeline, a medical vehicle, and agricultural equipment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Russian artillery strike on the morning of Aug. 14 injured a 16-year-old boy, who was hospitalized with blast trauma and shrapnel wounds, Prokudin said. In Donetsk Oblast, three civilians were killed and three injured in strikes on Kostiantynivka, Pokrovsk, and Rodynske, Governor Vadym Filashkin said. In Kharkiv Oblast, one person was killed and another injured in shelling and drone attacks against six settlements, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said. Civilian sites, including a house in Prudianka and a village club in Malyi Burluk, were damaged. In Sumy Oblast, several communities came under heavy shelling and drone strikes, injuring at least seven civilians, including a 7-year-old child, the regional administration said. One house was destroyed, and multiple buildings and vehicles were damaged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Trump likes a deal. Zelensky should offer him Ukraines government tech for free Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Ukrainian drones struck two Russian cities on Thursday in attacks that injured at least 16 people, local authorities said, a day before a U.S.-Russia summit on the war in Ukraine. Thirteen people were wounded, two seriously, when a drone struck an apartment building in the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, the acting regional governor said. Three civilians were wounded in the city of Belgorod near the border with Ukraine, according to the governor of that region, who posted video appearing to show a drone striking a car in the centre of the city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the head of Russia's Volgograd region said fallen debris from Ukrainian drones had caused a fire at an oil refinery. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are due to meet in Alaska on Friday as Trump attempts to bring about an end to the 3-1/2-year war. (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) A Russian soldier who committed war crimes against the civilian population of Ukraine has been sentenced to life imprisonment for shooting two residents of Kharkiv Oblast who were in a frontline area at that time. Source: Security Service of Ukraine (SSU); Office of the Prosecutor General Details: Artyom Kulikov, a 21-year-old Russian recidivist, fought as a rifleman with the 23rd Motorised Rifle Brigade of the 6th Red Banner Combined Arms Army of the Russian Federation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraines defence forces captured him in October 2024 whilst fighting on the Kupiansk front. Artyom Kulikov Photo: Office of the Prosecutor General Artyom joined Russias Armed Forces in late August 2024 from a prison in the Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod, whilst serving his sentence for robbery and theft. The man was sent to the eastern front to attack the positions of Ukrainian troops in the border areas of Kharkiv Oblast after just a short training session. While trying to seize a village in the Kupiansk district, Kulikov and his accomplice captured two local residents who were helping a fellow villager evacuate from the war zone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainian investigators revealed that the Russians tried to receive information about the location of the defence forces from the captured people. When Kulikov received no information, his immediate commander who goes by the alias "Grif" and whose identity is still being established ordered him via radio on 8 October 2024 to kill the prisoners. The Russian serviceman shot two men at close range with his assault rifle, killing them instantly. The SSU reported that during the interrogation, the Russian gave an incriminating testimony against his commanders, who ordered the killing of civilians in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. The panel of judges found Kulikov guilty under Article 28.2 and Article 438.2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, based on the evidence collected by the SSU. The Office of the Prosecutor General notes that the convict pleaded guilty during the trial. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! After almost three months of protest across dozens of countries, with support pouring in from activists and organisations representing millions of workers, all political prisoners from the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan (AAC-GB) have now been released on bail! None have been acquitted yet: the struggle goes on. But this huge victory nevertheless testifies to the immense power of international solidarity! Eshan Ali, the AAC-GBs Chairman, and Mahmood ur Rehman were the last of the 16 originally arrested leaders to be granted bail. On his release today, Ehsan Ali made a statement of defiance and thanks to comrades and supporters the world over: Lal Salaam to all comrades of Pakistan and around the world. Our struggle has weakened [] the repression of the Pakistani state and their colonial system, under which they repressed a peaceful movement and tried to crush it [] There were protests all over the country, in Pakistan and Kashmir and especially our international campaign [led] by our Communist International and our revolutionary communist parties all over the world [] Their campaign against the state repression in Gilgit-Baltistan [] had a positive impact on the masses and especially on the youth. The youth are enthusiastic and our movement has got new strength. This will be expressed in the coming period and more people will join us. And I think that our RCI and our sections have made a huge contribution. This is our idea of internationalism, and our philosophy, and this is our strength. And it has a big impact on all the oppressed in the world. The RCI expressed solidarity with the Awami Action Committee in practice and people in Gilgit Baltistan can see this. I thank the RCI from all the comrades of Gilgit Baltistan and our committees, and also thank comrades in Pakistan and Kashmir. Long live the RCI! Long live Revolutionary Communism! Long live international solidarity! Vindictive arrests As we reported in May, the Pakistani state detained the leaders of the AAC-GB in retaliation for their courageous struggle in the administrative territory of Gilgit-Baltistan, which is treated as a de facto colony by Islamabad. The people of the territory are denied basic democratic rights, face land grabs, and live in dire poverty, while state bureaucrats and Pakistani generals drain the rich resources of the territory to enrich themselves. For years, the AAC-GB have led peaceful mass movements to secure major victories around demands for subsidised wheat flour, electricity and other basic necessities of life. They have also fought successfully for basic education and healthcare provision, as well as organising to resist further exploitation of the mountainous territorys vibrant ecology by mining and water conglomerates. In revenge for this, and in an attempt to put a stop to their activity, the regime first placed Ehsan Ali (also a leading comrade of the Inqalabi Communist Party, RCP) on the so-called Fourth Schedule, an anti-terrorism measure that meant all of his movements were under intense surveillance. Then, in advance of a planned public meeting to protest a new Land Reform and Minerals Bill, much of the AAC-GBs leadership was arrested on charges of terrorism. This travesty happened in the same month that Pakistani Defence Minister Khwaja Asif went on record admitting that Pakistan has historically funded and supported terrorism. This is not to mention the brutality meted out by the regime against occupied peoples in Kashmir and Balochistan, as well as women, workers and the poor all throughout Pakistani territory. Looking at the facts, it is plain to see who the real terrorists are. For months, the arrested AAC-GB leaders have endured torture, attempts to extort false confessions, and threats to their families. Yet every last one of them has stood firm, refusing to perjure themselves or their comrades and steadfastly demanding justice. Comrade Ali has suffered especially badly, having experienced severe medical issues in captivity, including an intestinal infection that required surgery, as well as issues with his heart. He was also denied his first bail application on the ludicrous grounds that he had been promoting hate speech and sedition, meaning he was forced to appeal to a higher court. Power of solidarity Supporters of the AAC in Gilgit-Baltistan have been fighting for the detainees release from day one. They have held huge rallies and sit-ins in the territory, many of them led by women. The RCP has also organised major protests all across Pakistan, as well as in occupied Kashmir. The state responded with arrests, torture, threats and by whipping up religious sectarianism. But none of these dirty methods blunted the determination of the comrades. The Revolutionary Communist International has spearheaded a global solidarity campaign in which comrades have sent hundreds of letters of protest, made endless phone calls, and staged repeated rallies outside Pakistani diplomatic missions all over the world. We have given the regime absolutely no peace over these past few weeks! A day of action last month saw comrades assemble in 15 countries simultaneously to demand freedom for the AAC-GB with one voice. Subsequently, Scottish comrades of the Revolutionary Communist Party were granted an audience with the Pakistani Consul in Glasgow, in which they vowed the pressure would continue until all of the captives were released and all charges against them dropped. Our campaign has also been endorsed by campaign groups, leading activists, politicians and trade unions organising millions of workers all over the world. You can find a full list here. Recent additions include Former Seattle City Councillor Kshama Sawant, and the international human rights organisation Genocide Watch. We have trained a global spotlight on the crimes of the rotten capitalist regime in Islamabad. We also held a special session at the Revolutionary Communist Internationals recent world congress in which RCP leader Adam Pal reported on the history of the AAC-GB, the progress of our solidarity campaign, and the inspirational work of the communists in Pakistan under incredibly difficult conditions. It is the strength of our ideas that gives us determination, that gives us courage, that gives us the will to fight against oppression, Adam said at the conclusion of his speech. Because we are fighting against injustice, against the oppressive rule of this capitalist ruling class! And nothing can stop us from fighting for a better future! Forward! This campaign has been a concrete demonstration of the power of solidarity and the very purpose of our International. When we say that an injury to one is an injury to all, these are not empty words. This is the creed of our class, and a cornerstone of our organisation. When any of our comrades faces repression, the RCI will always move as one to defend them. Just as we will always mobilise in defence of the oppressed and exploited against the capitalists and their armed bodies of men. We welcome our released comrades, wish them a swift recovery from their ordeal, and salute their courage. Our campaign has scored a serious victory over a monstrous regime, one that will give confidence to the comrades in Gilgit-Baltistan and throughout Pakistan to continue their struggle for a decent existence. We offer heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us thus far and helped free our comrades, but we have no intention of resting on our laurels. None of the ACC-GB leaders have been acquitted: we must maintain the pressure on the regime until all of the charges against them are dropped. We will continue to support the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan until all of their demands for justice, freedom and a dignified life are met. Furthermore, we will continue our struggle in Pakistan, the subcontinent and throughout the world against capitalism and all the injustice, oppression and misery it wreaks upon humanity. CARLSBAD, N.M. (KRQE) The Eddy County Magistrate Court in Carlsbad is hosting two safe surrender events for people with outstanding bench warrants from any magistrate court in New Mexico. The events will be held Friday, August 22, from 1 7 p.m. and Saturday, August 23, from 8 a.m. 5 p.m. Story continues below Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The safe surrender event gives anyone with outstanding warrants a chance to possibly avoid jail time and other consequences by appearing before a judge. Anyone who appears and surrenders voluntarily will be given favorable consideration when requesting a new court date, payment plan, or any other option needed to comply with the court order, according to the Administrative Office of the Courts. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. SAG-AFTRA members have settled a lawsuit against the union health plan over a data breach that exposed their personal information. Lawyers for the actors on Tuesday told the court that theyve reached a settlement of this dispute, in principle. The terms werent disclosed. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposed class action accused the SAG Health, a trust established to provide health benefits to members, of failing to adequately safeguard member data, employ basic security measures and timely notify members of the breach. It brought claims for negligence, invasion of privacy and unjust enrichment, among others, and sought at least $5 million. The filing of the lawsuit followed a data breach last year in which information including names, social security numbers and health insurance and medical details was obtained through an email phishing attack. Its unknown how many members were affected by the breach. SAG-AFTRA members alleged that they werent notified of the breach until December, nearly three months after the union learned of it. They argued theyre now at an increased risk of identity theft and fraud. This exfiltrated personal data, the full extent of which SAG Health has failed to disclose to the public, allows hackers to gain a clear image of each individual and track their whereabouts, leading hackers to each victims behavior and background, wrote Yana Hart, a lawyer for the members, in the complaint. This effectively provides criminals with a key to their personal lives, making it easy to match additional data, gaining access to their personal accounts and insight on their preferences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit also claimed that members overpaid for their health plans in light of the data breach. SAG-AFTRA initiation fees are $3,000, with annual dues of $236 plus roughly 1.5 percent of covered earnings. Members must pay $375 per quarter for health coverage. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. SALISBURY, Mass. (WWLP) A Salisbury resident is celebrating a life-changing win after claiming $1 million prize in the Massachusetts State Lotterys $4,000,000 Cash King Doubler instant ticket game. Students and parents beat the heat as school year approaches The Lottery announced Wednesday that Kim Estes opted for the cash payout on her winnings, receiving a one-time payment of $650,000 before taxes. Courtesy of the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission Estes said she plans to use her winnings to buy a new car and renovate her home. The lucky ticket was purchased at Sundays General Store, located at 195 Andover St. in Andover. The store will receive a $10,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Jurors late Wednesday found Nicholas Rossi guilty of rape, a first-degree felony, just two days after his trial started in Salt Lake City. Sentencing is set for Oct. 20. Rossi, 38, is scheduled for another trial in September in Utah County where he is accused of raping a 21-year-old woman in Orem. He faces an identical charge in that case, based on alleged actions in 2008. We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable, Salt Lake County District Attorney Sim Gill said in a statement late Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He thanked prosecutors, the victim advocate and others for their years of dedication to the case and their outstanding work that helped bring about this verdict. Gill urged other sexual assault survivors to tell their stories. When you are ready, we ask that you come forward and report it. If it isnt reported, it cant be investigated. If it isnt investigated, it cant be prosecuted, and if it isnt prosecuted, justice cannot be served. Rossi was identified through a DNA rape kit in 2018 and charged in 2020. While receiving care for COVID-19 in a UK hospital, he was identified by investigators. The victim, a dance teacher, testified Monday about her memory of a 2008 relationship that she says ended in rape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman said she met Rossi through a personal Craigslist ad, leading to a relationship that lasted about a month before she decided she was done with him. Initially, she said, he was very nice and talked about how they would go to the Gateway in Salt Lake City or out to dinner. The woman identified Rossi by a tattoo on his arm and said they had consensual sex three separate times. She said after the two got engaged, spontaneously buying rings on Black Friday, Rossi became very emotionally and verbally abusive. He would tell her what to wear and would get angry when she said he could not drive her car, she testified. Eventually, he made a comment while at the mall that led her to put her engagement ring in her purse and walk back to her car. She testified that Rossi arrived when she had locked herself in her car and was yelling and screaming outside her car, blocking her in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Id never seen such rage in his eyes, she said. The woman said she saw the same rage in his eyes when he forced her to have sex with him a few hours later, after she drove him home and he insisted she come inside. She said it was after she told him their relationship was over, and he did not kiss her or do anything to check if she would be OK with sex. She testified that she was numb, frozen and scared. I didnt know what else he was capable of doing, she said. If someone can do that, what else can they do? She only reported her story to the police in 2022 after seeing a news article about Rossi related to another case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rossi, who authorities say faked his own death to avoid prosecution, was extradited to Utah from Scotland last year to face charges of raping two women in 2008 the woman who testified Monday and a 21-year-old woman in Orem. His story took a bizarre twist when it was reported that in 2022, a man named Arthur Knight was arrested at a Glasgow hospital after being in the intensive care unit for a month while he was treated for COVID-19. What followed was a lengthy legal battle with Rossi claiming he was really Knight, an Irish orphan who had never been to Utah, and it was a case of mistaken identity. He eventually lost his court fight after DNA testing and distinctive tattoos were used to positively identify him as Rossi. (WSYR-TV) Hunger and food insecurity continue to be a problem in Central New York. For over 100 years now, the Salvation Army has been active in helping those in need in the Syracuse area, but they need help from the community to provide that assistance. Bridge Street was joined by Major David Champlin, area director of county operations for the Salvation Armys Syracuse Area Services, to talk about what you can do to help them fill their shelves with food. The Salvation Army receives the majority of food items from the Food Bank, and they also rely heavily on donations from the community (both monetary donations and food donations). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In particular, the Salvation Army is seeking non-perishable canned items such as tuna, chicken, peanut butter, rice and other items that can be easily stored and accessed. The Salvation Army also tells us that holding a food drive in your community, business, school or church is a simple way to give back and make a positive impact, so that hungry neighbors can get the food they need. The food pantry saw its busiest week of the year at the beginning of the summer (serving more than 400 individuals in just one week), and the need grows as household items remain at a high cost. While the area experiences an ongoing heatwave, many are having to choose between turning their AC on or buying food. Their emergency food pantry serves over 20,000 meals per month, but with a recent increase in food uncertainty, the Salvation Army of Syracuse is in need of more donations from community members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Food can be brought directly to the pantry at 100 Linden Street Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday or call (315) 475-1688 to learn more and set up a time to drop off. Monetary donations can be dropped off or mailed to the Syracuse Area Services office at 677 South Salina Street in Syracuse or processed through SASYR.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 WSYR. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) The Supreme Court has been asked to overturn its 2015 ruling that legalized same sex marriage nationwide. The Bay Area saw some of the first vows from same-sex couples when California legalized it in 2008. KRON4 spoke to a couple celebrating their 17th wedding anniversary this year. Gay couples were getting married at San Francisco City Hall long before same sex marriage was legalized nationally 10 years ago. Those couples are paying close attention to whats happening with the Supreme Court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nine Supreme Court Justices may take up a case that asks them to overturn the right to same sex marriage. A possibility that San Francisco Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford says she saw coming from republicans. Six people, including teen, detained by ICE after raid in Oakland home: attorney I knew as a trans person that they werent going to stop with us and that this is proof that they are going to keep going, Ford said. The case was brought by Kim Davis, a former Kentucky clerk who was arrested in 2015 for refusing to issue marriage certificates to same sex couples. John Lewis and Stuart Gaffney first married in 2004 during the Winter of Love at San Francisco City Hall. Those marriages were all annulled, so the couple said I Do again in 2008 when California legalized same sex marriage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It never feels good to have somebody file a petition before the United States Supreme Court to take away your marriage, Gaffney said. But one thing we know for sure is that our love is here to stay and our marriage is here to stay. Though the case has been filed with the Supreme Court, that doesnt mean the justices will take it up. Gaffney and Stuart are confident that their marriage will continue to be recognized as legal in every state. The Supreme Court itself has shown no interest in this point in overturning its historic marriage equality decision of 10 years ago, Lewis said. Tesla opening Supercharger station in this affluent SF neighborhood Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent Gallup Poll shows that about 70 percent of Americans support same sex marriage. Ford says the support is great, but that its time for silent members of the LGBTQ community to speak up. Its going to touch all of us eventually, Ford said. I think the sooner we get to that realization, the sooner we can stand up and say we arent going to have this here in America. The Supreme Court is scheduled to consider the case at the Justices conference 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 KRON4. LA JOLLA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) In a landmark decision for the coastal community of La Jolla Shores, the City of San Diego has officially approved the the transformation of Avenida de la Playa into the citys first permanent coastal promenade. This decision solidifies a pandemic-era adaptation into a long-term public space designed for pedestrians, outdoor dining, and community connection. The Avenida de la Playa Promenade was originally closed to vehicle traffic in 2020 as part of temporary COVID-19 measure to allow safe open-air dining and foot traffic. What began as a makeshift solution quickly evolved into a cherished community hub, drawing both local residents and visitors to its scenic, beachside charm. Now, after years of coordination, the La Jolla Shores Business Association and the City of San Diego have secured the final approvals to make the promenade a permanent feature. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North County babysitter sentenced to life for sexually abusing autistic children This achievement is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together, said Phil Wise, a key leader behind the effort. In Europe this is very common. Im glad we could bring al fresco dining to The Shores. This is perfect for La Jolla and San Diego. The journey to permanency has spanned over five years and include collaboration with the California Coastal Commission and various city departments. Darren Moore, chair of the La Jolla Shores Business Association, described the effort as a continuous evolution. The promenade would be a textbook definition of building the plane while youre flying it, Moore said. It was challenging at times, but the unwavering support from the local community, and a can-do approach from the City of San Diego Development Services, the Department of Special Events, and the La Jolla Shores Business Association made this unprecedented project possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to officials, the key to final approval was addressing parking concerns. The city required the replacement of 11 parking spaces that were lost to the pedestrian space. Moore shared that the associations solution has involved launching a fundraising campaign to create new beach-access parking elsewhere in the area. To support the parking initiative and the continued development of the promenade, donations for the campaign can be made here. Contributions are tax-deductible. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The San Diego city attorneys office has launched a new effort to protect tenants. On Wednesday, San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert announced the launch of the Housing Protection and Civil Code Compliance Unit (HPU). The new unit will be aimed at issues pertaining to housing and code violations, including repeated noncompliance to the citys tenant protection and short-term residential occupancy ordinances. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bay Park residents upset over ongoing overnight construction The unit will pursue legal action against repeat violators as part of its goal to ensure that San Diegans have access to safe housing options that meet legal standards, according to city officials. Ferbert said creating the unit involved shifting some of the deputies who were previously assigned to the criminal division of her office so they could work with civil matters. Weve learned over the last several years that civil penalties are much more effective at getting compliance and the goal is compliance, she said. The goal is safe, healthy housing for people, not to punish people, not to tear down housingIf theyre in the business of offering housing, it needs to be safe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement People can fill out an online request for service to notify the HPU of any of the following issues: Boarded or abandoned property Drug dealers or drug abusers Fire hazards Gangs Graffiti Illegal business or other zoning violation Illegal trash dumping Noise Parking Prostitution Substandard housing Water theft In addition to the aforementioned issues, community members may also report other concerns related to housing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The San Diego County Board of Education is ensuring schools remain safe spaces amid federal immigration enforcement fears. The board unanimously voted Wednesday night to update an existing policy first adopted in 2016 and last updated in 2017. We are also conforming to state law, but most importantly were conforming to the needs of our children and for their safe and effective education, said Gregg Robinson, President of the San Diego County Board of Education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy aligns with guidance from the California Attorney General upholding the privacy of undocumented students and limiting cooperation with ICE. Its clear that their information isnt going to be turned over immigration enforcement agents. Its clear that we dont ask for or collect information about citizenship status, said Music Watson, Chief of Staff of the San Diego County Office of Education. The policy update reinforces a safe environment and emphasizes protecting student rights. In speaking with educators, especially in the southern part of San Diego County, what they were telling me was that a lot of parents have expressed a lot of doubts. A lot of fear about whether or not their children would be safe going to school, said immigrant rights advocate Pedro Rios, who is also the Director of the American Friends Service Committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rios said the recent arrest of a mother near a Chula Vista school has also raised concerns about parents safety. Thats why hearing directly from school board officials or school district officials or even their teachers is important to understand that they are aware of the implications that greater enforcement might have, Rios said. The policy update also supports ongoing staff training and parent communication. First and foremost we want our staff to feel confident and comfortable in the engagement with ICE agents when that comes onto their campus to understand what warrants look like to know what to look for in the warrants, said Gloria Ciriza, Superintendent of Schools of the San Diego County Board of Education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, advocates like Rios are reminding people who are concerned about what other steps they can take. Always create a family plan in case someone is detained, they are aware of what steps other family members might take to safeguard the children especially, said Rios. The county directly operates about two dozen schools. This revised policy applies to these only and not every school in the county, although school districts have adopted similar policies. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Saugus Public Schools, located just outside Boston, will no longer require families to fill out a town census as a condition of enrollment after being sued on the grounds the practice discriminated against immigrant children and other vulnerable students. Sauguss policy change goes against a torrent of federal and state initiatives aimed at limiting educational access to newcomers, particularly those in the country illegally. The Trump administration has detained and deported K-12 students and recently barred undocumented preschoolers from Head Start and older students from career, technical and adult education. In many states, those federal directives have been put on hold pending a Sept. 3 hearing. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter The Saugus school registration requirement was challenged in court last year by Lawyers for Civil Rights, Massachusetts Advocates for Children and Anderson & Kreiger LLP. The state attorney generals office also aided in the effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related Immigrant Advocates Call on Massachusetts AG to Probe Enrollment Discrimination We are ecstatic, said Erika Richmond Walton, an attorney with Lawyers for Civil Rights, who added that her group will continue to monitor school enrollment to ensure every family can register without fear or unnecessary hurdles. Erika Richmond Walton (Lawyers For Civil Rights) Neither district officials nor multiple Saugus school board members responded to The 74s requests for comment. Theyve stated previously that their enrollment procedures followed the law. Richmond Walton said the schools turnaround came as a shock: In a recent admissions policy directive, it omitted the census clause. The enrollment-focused document instead centered on proof of residence and the districts desire to ferret out anyone not living within its borders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It did come as a surprise to me, she said. It was a fight we had been fighting for well over a year. The new development in the Saugus case coincides with the states recent adoption of the Protect Education Equity Bill, which affirms the educational rights of immigrant children and students with disabilities. Undocumented students right to attend school is already enshrined in the landmark 1982 Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe, but that ruling is under attack in some conservative states. This law comes at a time of rising federal threats to civil rights, Massachusetts Advocates for Children said about the states initiative, which was signed by Gov. Maura Healey on Aug. 5. While federal protections for immigrant students and students with disabilities are in jeopardy, Massachusetts has taken a bold stand to ensure that those rights remain protected here at home. In Saugus, Walton said the district required families to fill out a census form as part of a local headcount conducted every year. In order to comply, she said, they had to get the document from town hall. Once they did, she said, the town would initiate an inspection of their living quarters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A family with an elementary-aged child was barred from completing the form because they were heating their home with space heaters, she said. In another case, one family was doubled up with another, and the one that sought to enroll a child was not the leaseholder, which disqualified them. Both were eventually allowed to attend school when Massachusetts Advocates for Children intervened. Adam Strom, executive director of Boston-based Re-Imagining Migration, said the districts reversal is critical. It protects something fundamental: every childs right to attend school, Strom said. No student should have their education held hostage by discriminatory policies. Students of all ages have been targeted for deportation across the country since the start of the year. Some have been in federal detention for weeks, with limited access to family while others have been removed from the United States entirely. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this summer, a Massachusetts teen on his way to volleyball practice was detained by immigration agents before winning his release. Related Educators Say Worst Fears Realized as High Schoolers Detained by ICE The Saugus school district served 2,462 students in 2023, up from 2,297 in 2021. Nearly 30% of the student body was identified as Hispanic or Latino two years ago, up from 20.6% in 2021. Just under 10% were English learners in 2023, up from 6.3% two years prior. The school superintendents secretary, Dianne Vargas, told The 74 a year ago that the census requirement was waived for incoming immigrant students. Related Trumps Call to Remove Undocumented from Census Could Impact Education Funding But, she said then, the district did require other forms of paperwork meant to protect these students welfare so the district could make sure they are with a parent or guardian that they actually have someone who is caring for them so we dont have doubling up and people arent passing children around. SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) A Savannah man has been found guilty in federal court of possession of ammunition in connection to a October 2021 shooting. Charlie Sapp, 58, of Savannah, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by supervised release, after a two-day trial in U.S. District Court. He was charged with possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, Tara M. Lyons, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia said. Sapp was prohibited from possessing ammunition due to previous felony convictions in the Superior Court of Chatham County, Lyons said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 2 Romanian nationals charged with wire fraud Sapp pointed a firearm at another person and shot three times on Oct. 8, 2021, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. After receiving a call from an eyewitness, Savannah Police officers reportedly found two 9mm Luger shell casings on the scene. He was previously tried for the incident in November 2022 by the Chatham County District Attorneys Office, but was not convicted, a U.S. Attorneys Office spokesperson said. The casings were not manufactured in Georgia and an expert with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) determined they qualified as ammunition under federal law, officials said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a win for all law enforcement involved, Savannah Chief of Police Lenny Gunther said. I would like to especially thank the men and women of the ATF for their hard work and diligence in this case. ATF Acting ASAC Robert Davis said, Our commitment to public safety is unwavering. The prosecution of individuals who unlawfully possess firearms and ammunition is critical in our efforts to reduce gun violence in our communities. The case was investigated by the ATF and Savannah Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Makeia R. Jonese and Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Bondura 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 WSAV-TV. The Old Dominion Job Corps Center in Monroe, one of two contractor-run campuses in the state facing an uncertain future after the U.S. Department of Labor moved to pause operations nationwide. (Photo courtesy of Old Dominion Job Corps Center) When Savannah Higgins walked through the doors of the Old Dominion Job Corps Center in Monroe back in 2010, she was 19, directionless, and unsure of how to turn her ambition into reality. Raised in northern Virginia by a single mother while her father was incarcerated for most of her childhood, Higgins had graduated high school but was stuck feeling stagnant, she recalls without the money, guidance, or stability to take her next step. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What she found at Job Corps was more than a career training program. It was housing, meals, structure, and a support network the basics she needed to focus on learning skills and rebuilding her confidence. Job Corps bridged the gap between high school and the next chapters of my life, she said. This program doesnt just teach trades; it saves lives by meeting people where they are, providing stability, and instilling the belief that they can succeed. Fifteen years later, Higgins is a licensed social worker with a doctorate, a U.S. Army veteran, and an adjunct professor at three universities. Shes also a wife and mother of two. Savannah Higgins, an alumna of the Old Dominion Job Corps Center, says the program gave her the stability and skills to build a successful career and warns that closing its doors would shut off life-changing opportunities for others. (Photo courtesy of Savannah Higgins) And now, as the U.S. Department of Labor presses forward with plans to pause operations at contractor-run Job Corps centers nationwide including Old Dominion and Blue Ridge in Virginia shes worried the same lifeline that helped her could be ripped away for thousands of young people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Closing the doors will close doors on countless opportunities for individuals to gain the tools and resources they need to turn their lives around, Higgins said. A sudden national directive On May 29, the Department of Labor (DOL) verbally notified all Job Corps contractors that operations at 99 centers across the country would end immediately for convenience. Written orders followed within hours, instructing operators to start dismissing students by June 2 and fully close by June 6. The move would have displaced roughly 35,000 students nationwide about one in five of them homeless or housing insecure along with thousands of employees. The DOL framed the decision as a phased pause to allow an orderly transition, citing a $140 million program deficit in 2024 and a projected $213 million deficit in 2025. An internal review, officials said, had raised concerns about safety incidents, low graduation rates and high costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Job Corps was created to help young adults build a pathway to a better life, Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said in the announcement. However, a startling number of serious incident reports and our in-depth fiscal analysis reveal the program is no longer achieving the intended outcomes students deserve. The department pointed to 2023 metrics showing an average graduation rate of 38.6% and an average annual cost of over $80,000 per student. Chavez-DeRemer said the administration remains committed to helping affected students connect with other education and employment opportunities. Court steps in The closures havent happened yet. On June 3, a federal judge granted a Temporary Restraining Order halting the DOLs action. Later in June, the court issued a national preliminary injunction keeping the centers open while lawsuits proceed. More than 20 state attorneys general filed briefs supporting the challenge, arguing the closures would cause devastating harm to vulnerable youth and local economies. Members of Virginias congressional delegation are also weighing in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Newport News, chair of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, said the abruptness of the DOLs decision raised serious legal and ethical concerns. The decision was made abruptly without notice and put a lot of people kind of in a lurch, Scott said in an interview with The Mercury shortly before he hosted a workforce community forum in his district earlier this week. Many people participating in Job Corps actually live on campus, Scott said. So when you close the campus, you really put them out on the street. U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Newport News, speaks out against the U.S. Department of Labors plan to pause operations at contractor-run Job Corps centers, calling the abrupt move harmful to students and local economies. (Photo by Zach Gibson/Getty Images) Scott noted that Job Corps is funded by law and that the administration has a legal duty to operate it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are opportunities people have been given, he said. To qualify for Job Corps, you have to be out of school, not working. Youre given an opportunity to develop skills for high-demand jobs. To take that away overnight makes no sense. Three centers, hundreds of students Launched in 1964 as part of then-President Lyndon B. Johnsons War on Poverty campaign, the Job Corps program was created under the Economic Opportunity Act to provide free education and vocational training to disadvantaged young Americans. Designed as a residential program modeled partly after the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s, it aimed to tackle both youth unemployment and skills shortages in the economy. Over the decades, Job Corps has evolved to meet shifting workforce demands, adding training in fields like health care, information technology, and advanced manufacturing while maintaining its original mission of lifting young people out of poverty through hands-on skills training and supportive services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Virginias three Job Corps facilities Old Dominion in Monroe, Blue Ridge near Marion, and Flatwoods Civilian Conservation Center in Coeburn collectively serve hundreds of students each year. Between July and April, Old Dominion and Blue Ridge enrolled 308 students. Together, they house about 163 at a time, many of them without stable housing or family support. Each center specializes in training tied to regional job markets, from construction and manufacturing to health care and conservation work. The pause order immediately threatened two of those facilities Old Dominion and Blue Ridge which fall under the contractor-run category targeted by the DOL. Flatwoods, run by the U.S. Forest Service, remains unaffected. For rural communities like Amherst County and Smyth County, these centers are more than education hubs. They pump an average of $10 million a year into their local economies, employing about 150 people each, and contracting with dozens of local vendors. Graduates contribute millions more through their increased earning potential. Economic shockwaves Scott said shutting down centers wouldnt just hurt students it would ripple through local economies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the communities where they exist, youve got a lot of people not working who are on the way to having high-demand jobs where they can contribute to the economy, he said. You have employers who rely on Job Corps to fill vacancies that are otherwise hard to fill. U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, both Virginia Democrats, blasted the administrations move as incredibly short-sighted. For decades, the Job Corps program has transformed lives in Virginia and across the country by helping to equip young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed, Warner said in a statement in May. We should be investing more in opportunities that lift up our young people, strengthen our workforce, and have a tremendous economic impact in the commonwealth. Kaine called Job Corps a lifeline for at-risk youth. Instead of working to further invest in the program, the Labor Department has made the shameful choice to give up on thousands of vulnerable young Americans, he said. U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (left) and Tim Kaine, both Virginia Democrats, have condemned the Labor Departments pause of contractor-run Job Corps centers, calling the program a vital lifeline for vulnerable youth. (Official U.S. Senate photo by Rosa Pineda) Nationwide, Job Corps trains tens of thousands of young adults annually in more than 100 trades across 10 industries from welding and construction to nursing and homeland security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over 80% of graduates find employment within six months, according to federal data. Scott said that the pipeline is critical for Virginia industries already struggling to find qualified workers. In Hampton Roads, for example, shipbuilding and repair companies face chronic shortages. Job Corps is very helpful in providing employees that can help in high-demand areas, he said. Without it, Scott warned, youre not just hurting the individuals. Youre hurting businesses that cant meet their work requirements. The DOLs Transparency Report, however, painted a grim picture: high per-student costs, low graduation rates, and more than 14,900 serious incident reports in 2023, including 372 sexual assaults, 1,764 acts of violence, and 2,702 drug use cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Supporters acknowledge the program isnt perfect but say its flaws should be addressed through reform, not elimination. Warner and Kaine both said fiscal and safety concerns need to be addressed but argued the answer isnt closing doors on those who have nowhere else to go. Scott echoed that sentiment. If youre going to phase out a program, you do it in a way that people arent harmed, he said. This was just an order to shut down without any consideration of the consequences. Political and legal stakes With the injunction in place, Job Corps centers remain open for now. But the reprieve is temporary, and the legal battle could drag on for months. Scott said Congress already acted to protect the program by funding it in the current appropriations bill. Thats the law of the land, he said. If the Trump administration wants to rescind the money, theres a process for that, and I can pretty much guarantee it wouldnt pass. Theres too much bipartisan support. The Mercury has reached out to Republican members of Virginias congressional delegation U.S. Reps. Ben Cline, John McGuire, and Morgan Griffith for comment on the Job Corps pause but has not received a response. Supporters point to letters signed by hundreds of lawmakers from both parties in June urging the administration to reverse course. One, led by Reps. Brett Guthrie, R-Ky., and Sanford Bishop, D-Ga., described Job Corps as a program that turns homeless youth into the welders, electricians, nurses, and mechanics of the future. The human cost For Higgins, the numbers and policy debates matter less than the people she knows will be left behind. She remembers arriving at Old Dominion and feeling, for the first time in years, that her life was on a track. You cant expect anyone to better their situation, let alone help others, when they dont have their basic needs met, she said, referencing the Maslows Hierarchy Of Needs pyramid taught in social work. At the very bottom are the basic necessities to survive with self-actualization at the top where we are free to become the most complete and authentic versions of ourselves. Once you have those basic needs met, its a bit easier to work on other things like friendships, education, or careers. Higgins said the friends she made through the program remain some of her closest allies. Many, like her, have gone on to careers and families they never imagined before Job Corps. Without Job Corps, I might have never joined the military, pursued higher education, or found the career I have today, she said. The ripple effect of that loss would be felt for generations, as fewer people are given the stability, skills, and confidence to reach their full potential. As the legal case moves ahead, Virginia Career Works and other local partners are working with students to prepare for the possibility of disruption finding temporary housing, arranging transportation and helping with job placement. But for now, students at Old Dominion and Blue Ridge are still in class, still living on campus and still hoping the fight in Washington will keep their futures intact. Scott said that hope is well-placed but warned the threat hasnt passed. The injunction is good news, but its temporary, he said. The ultimate decision will be in court, and Congress needs to keep making clear this program is here to stay. Higgins is holding on to that same hope, even as she fears for those still searching for the sense of purpose she once found in Monroe. The proposed closure of Job Corps centers would be devastating, she said. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE "It really was absolutely hideous." Duncan Hilling was one of the first British soldiers to see the aftermath of the atomic bombs in Japan in 1945. The 99-year-old World War Two veteran, from Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire, served with the Royal Welch Fusiliers and described the "horror" of the devastation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Now, he has been presented with a letter of thanks by the First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan to mark 80 years since Victory over Japan, recognising "the sacrifice, the contribution and service" he made. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Germany surrendered on 7 May 1945, the war continued in the Asia-Pacific region. Hiroshima marked the first use of the atomic bomb in a war when, on 6 August 1945, the American B-29 bomber the Enola Gay dropped Little Boy over the skies of the city. It contained the equivalent of 15,000 tonnes of TNT and devastated an area of five square miles (13 sq km). Mr Hilling, who joined the RAF in April 1944 before being transferred to the Army and serving in India in 1945 before his regiment went to Japan, said: "We went to Hiroshima and saw the horror of the atomic bomb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Blind people were being led around and there were still dead bodies lying in the streets." Japan, however, did not surrender and three days later the Americans dropped another atomic bomb on Nagasaki, before the country surrendered on 14 August. Duncan Hilling sent this photograph home to his parents while he was in Japan [Duncan Hilling/Age Cymru Dyfed's West Wales Veterans Archive] Mr Hilling visited both cities, including going to schools turned into makeshift hospitals. "We saw people who were totally blind, and their hands and skin were burnt," he said. "To me it was horrible, the newspapers described an atomic bomb, but it doesn't describe the people or what they looked like. "I really hope it never happens again." Duncan Hilling served in India in 1945 when he was 19 years old [BBC] Mr Hilling saw the devastation the bombs had unleashed: "In Japan 90% of the houses were wooden and they were all burnt." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He and his regiment stopped to talk to people on the street and described them as "friendly". "We asked them what they remembered of the bomb, they said they didn't remember anything - just a horrific flash and that was it and they'd lost their sight and couldn't remember past that point." The estimated recorded death tolls are thought to be about 140,000 of Hiroshima's 350,000 population and at least 74,000 in Nagasaki. The Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, now known as Atomic Bomb Dome, was the only structure left standing in the area where the bomb detonated [REUTERS/Toshio Kawamoto/Yoshio Kawamoto] The nuclear radiation released by the bombs caused thousands more people to die from radiation sickness in the weeks, months and years that followed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Hilling said he lost several members of his regiment years later who had taken "souvenirs" from the bomb sites. "I didn't take any souvenirs, but nobody ever mentioned the fact that radiation was a problem and three boys from the regiment who were with me at the time took some things away from the site. They all died of cancer in their 30s and 40s." Duncan Hilling took this photograph of Hiroshima to capture the devastation in the city [Duncan Hilling/Age Cymru Dyfed's West Wales Veterans Archive] Two days of national holiday were announced for celebrations in the UK, US and Australia after the surrender of Japan, with millions of people taking part in parades and street parties. Mr Hilling celebrated in India before heading to Japan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We sang Cwm Rhondda, it was very exciting to celebrate it in that way," he said. "It must have been different to any other regiment, I can't think of anyone else who celebrated by singing hymns." From Japan, Mr Hilling was drafted to Malaya for the so-called Malayan emergency, a communist-inspired revolt against the British. "It's an eerie feeling of walking through the jungle and you can't look behind. You just feel at any moment you could get a bullet in your back," he said. Eluned Morgan presented Duncan Hilling, accompanied by his daughter Miranda, with a letter of thanks for his service in World War Two [BBC] Ms Morgan said the letter of thanks, presented to Mr Hilling at his home, recognised "the sacrifice, the contribution and service that Duncan made," adding "he is of course a representative of a whole generation, no longer with us". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She added: "It was the end of a really difficult time and it was lovely to hear Duncan talk about the joy when they heard the end of the war had occurred. "It is important that we remind the children of today of the cost of war and why it's important to listen to witnesses like Duncan and know why we try and avoid it at all costs." The Santee River, into which Santee Cooper dumps water from one of its coal-operated power generation stations. (Provided/Mac Stone, Southwings) GEORGETOWN Santee Cooper cant dump scalding water into a Georgetown river as part of a legal settlement with Lowcountry conservation groups. Santee Cooper will also provide $250,000 to conservation group Open Space Institute to buy land preserving habitat for federally endangered sturgeons that would have been harmed if the utility had followed through with dumping hotter water into the river, according to the settlement agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Santee River will have increased protection against super-heated water, and endangered fish get permanent habitat protection that will endure long after the aging coal plant finally retires, Nick Torrey, an attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center, which represented the conservation groups in the case, said in a statement. The state-owned utility asked the states environmental agency in 2021 for permission to dump water reaching temperatures as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit into the North Santee River from its coal-fired electric power generating station in Georgetown, according to a permit application. It was approved, but environmental groups immediately sued in the Administrative Law Court. Under the agreement that went into effect this month, Santee Cooper will not dump water into the river above 100 degrees during the summer and 95 during the rest of the year. If the utility exceeds that limit, it will pay a fine to the Open Space Institute for further conservation efforts. The punishment is $5,000 for every day the temperature is above limits, according to the agreement provided to the SC Daily Gazette. The proposed temperature was far above the previous maximum temperature of 98 degrees, which the utility has followed since 2000. Although the utility never exceeded that temperature, the temperature limit hobbled power generation, Santee Cooper argued in filings to the Administrative Law Court, which handles disputes with agencies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santee Cooper sends its hot water into a cooling pond, where it sits until reaching the maximum temperature. Contaminants in the water can wear down the utilitys equipment over time, requiring the station burn more coal to produce the same amount of power, according to the filings. The utility also raised concerns about the cooling pond overflowing during heavy rains. If employees cant dump the water often enough, polluted water could overflow into nearby Turkey Creek, according to the utilitys legal filings. Lowcountry conservation groups Winyah River Alliance and the Coastal Conservation League pushed back, saying warmer water would harm the local population of Atlantic and shortnose sturgeons that travel and forage in the river. The Department of Environmental Services dropped the maximum temperature on the permit to 110 degrees last year, but conservationists contended that was still too high. Hot water can harm endangered species of sturgeon that travel up and down the North Santee River, an expert hired by the conservation groups said. When temperatures reach above 86 degrees Fahrenheit, some species of sturgeon go into distress, causing them to stop foraging for food or traveling along the river, wrote Boyd Kynard, a Massachusetts-based fish researcher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sturgeons usually return to the same feeding and mating spots throughout generations. When a river becomes unusable, including because the water has gotten too warm, many fish never find a new place to eat or mate, Kynard wrote. Surges of hot water can also kill the fish outright. While traveling upstream, the sturgeons typically stay out of the dumping zone, but they swim straight through it on the way downstream. A sudden stream of 110-degree water in a migrating sturgeons path could kill it, Kynard wrote. The settlement brought the maximum temperature to a level conservationists were satisfied would protect the endangered fish, as well as others that live in the river, said Faith Rivers James, executive director of the Coastal Conservation League, in a statement following the settlement. The Atlantic and Shortnose sturgeon are ancient species that for millennia have been part of the Santee River watershed, James said. This agreement is a significant conservation outcome for this rivers wildlife, helping to preserve the unique ecosystem of the Santee River Delta that they depend on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water above 104 degrees can be dangerous for people as well, especially children, pregnant women and the elderly, the conservation groups argued. If Santee Cooper drained 110-degree water straight into the river, that could burn swimmers, kayakers and crabbers who frequent the nearby boat ramp, according to their legal filings. The conservation groups couldnt prove the rivers water would reach dangerous temperatures for fish or humans, Santee Cooper responded. State officials who reviewed the application determined the increase would have little impact on the sturgeons in the river, the utility said in its own court filings. Other solutions to the cooling problems the conservation groups proposed were not feasible, either for practical reasons or because they would be too expensive, the utility argued. Cost-effectiveness is a heavy consideration as operational costs are borne by ratepayers, as Santee Cooper is a public utility and not for profit, the utilitys legal filings read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The utility was pleased with the agreed upon changes to its permit, spokeswoman Emily Tyner said in an email. The new permit allows us the operational flexibility and regulatory certainty necessary to continue to provide low-cost, reliable power to South Carolinians, as we have done at Winyah for decades, Tyner said. Scares the heck out of me: Officials warn of flesh-eating bacteria at Cape Cod beach Officials are warning of Vibrio, a rare flesh-eating bacteria, after a swimmer contracted it after swimming at Old Silver Beach in Falmouth last week. Vibrio bacteria, which thrive in warm coastal waters, can infect open wounds and cause symptoms such as vomiting and severe illness, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems. Despite the recent case, Old Silver Beach remains open to the public. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It scares the heck out of me, said a beachgoer, expressing concern over the presence of the bacteria. We assumed they had to report it, an older person, and we felt that we were healthy to come enjoy the beach. Dr. Marie Constant noted that Vibrio is rare in Massachusetts but emphasized the importance of monitoring wounds exposed to warm coastal waters. What I would suggest first is that if somebody has a wound, they have a cut, they have a scrape. They should cover that before they get into the water, and after they get out of the water, they should wash that wound with soap and water, said Dr. Marie Constant. Falmouth health officials reported that the individual who contracted Vibrio had an exposed wound when they went swimming at Old Silver Beach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here are some tips for beachgoers to keep in mind: If you have an open wound that has been exposed to coastal waters, monitor for any signs of infection for about seven days Seek medical attention if you develop a fever, discoloration or swelling. Despite the incident, some visitors remain undeterred. I want to go in the water, I am taking my chances, I guess, said another beachgoer. The peak period for Vibrio exposure is typically late summer and early fall, according to local officials. While the risk of Vibrio infection remains low, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A school bus carrying 42 students from Bagdad Elementary School rolled over on a rural road north of Austin on Wednesday, sending 15 students and the driver to hospitals, officials said. The crash, which occurred around 3:15 p.m. in the 22300 block of Nameless Road in Travis County, left one person with life-threatening injuries and two with potentially life-threatening injuries, according to Kevin Parker, assistant chief of Austin-Travis County Medical Emergency Services. The remaining occupants of the bus suffered minor injuries. The bus, a 2024 model equipped with seatbelts, veered off the right side of a curved road and overturned before any students had been dropped off, said Leander Independent School District Superintendent Bruce Gearing. It remains unclear how many students were wearing seatbelts or what caused the bus to leave the roadway, though a Texas Department of Public Safety official noted it was raining at the time. The investigation is ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This part of our Leander ISD family has been through so much already this summer with the floods and this tragedy this afternoon is really breaking our hearts, Gearing said, per NBC 5 DFW. 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 that we can in our power to support them. Ten EMS vehicles, including eight ambulances and two helicopters, responded to the rural crash site. Parker clarified that helicopters were used for efficient transport, not necessarily due to injury severity. The injured were taken to Dell Childrens North Austin Medical Center, Dell Childrens Medical Center in East Austin, and Cedar Park Regional Medical Center. Initial reports indicated 12 people were transported, but additional students were sent for medical care after reassessment at a reunification point, the Austin American-Statesman reported. The incident follows deadly flash flooding in the same area last month, which had already affected the Bagdad Elementary community. The district announced that additional counselors will be available at the school to support students and families. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) A school district in Butler County has placed an administrator on leave. Because of the receipt of new information, the Talawanda City School District announced an unnamed central office administrator is on unpaid leave. Talawanda schools described the individual as a new administrator. This decision was made to allow the organization to review the matter thoroughly, ensure that requirements for employment have been met based on new information, and ensure that all actions align with Talawandas commitment to transparency, integrity, and the best interests of TSD students and the community, said the districts message. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district said it cant provide any additional details, as it is a personnel matter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. File this under: things that sound like science fiction but are 100% real. A researcher at the University of Colorado Denver has developed something that, on paper, sounds impossiblea chip the size of your thumb that can do what used to take massive, mile-long particle colliders to pull off. What does that actually mean? Two things: this chip could one day help doctors destroy cancer cells with incredible precision, and it might help physicists answer the weirdest question in scienceare we living in a multiverse? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets break it down. Dr. Aakash Sahai, the guy behind the tech, figured out how to create ultra-intense electromagnetic fields using a silicon-based material. Until now, if scientists wanted to generate those fields, they needed enormous facilities like the Large Hadron Collider in Switzerland. Those take up miles of space and billions of dollars. This? It fits in the palm of your hand. That alone is wild. But heres where it gets even crazier. In medicine, those extreme energy fields could eventually power gamma ray lasersyes, real gamma ray lasers. If developed safely, they could be used to target cancer at the atomic level. Not whole cells. Not tissues. Literally at the nucleus of an atom. That means zapping cancer without touching the healthy stuff around it. No invasive surgery. No collateral damage. Just precise, microscopic edits to the body. And then theres the physics side. Sahais chip might actually let researchers test theories about the multiverselike, the kind of questions you hear in documentaries narrated by Morgan Freeman. The tech opens up experiments weve never been able to run before because we didnt have anything strong enough, small enough, or safe enough to do it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Right now, its still early days. Sahai and his grad student, Kalyan Tirumalasetty, are heading back to Stanfords SLAC accelerator lab this summer to keep refining the design. But the foundations are already solidCU Denver has filed patents, and the chip has been featured on the cover of a top-tier quantum science journal. Will this thing be curing cancer next year? Probably not. But in a decade? Maybe. In the meantime, its got scientists genuinely excited, not just because of what it can dobut because of what it might reveal. Source: Science Daily Read the original article on GEEKSPIN. Affiliate links on GEEKSPIN may earn us and our partners a commission. Heres what youll learn when you read this story: A new scientific approach to counting wildlife discovered 41,000 nesting turtles hidden in one area of the Amazon. A University of Florida team believes theyve developed a more accurate way to monitor wildlife using drones and statistical modeling. Wildlife counting is wildly inaccurate with current methods, according to the researchers study. Researchers from the University of Florida have crafted a new process for counting animals. A new research method pairing drones with smart modeling has counted more than 41,000 endangered Giant South American River turtles nesting along the Amazons Guapore River, according to the researchers behind a recent study. Its the worlds largest known aggregation of freshwater turtles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This processrevealed in the study, which was published in the Journal of Applied Ecologyinvolves taking thousands of images to track and study animal behavior in order to remove the errors produced by other methods, such as on-the-ground counting. Lead study author Ismael Bracka post-doctoral researcher within the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences School of Forestry, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciencescalled the method novel, and clarified in a statement that the method can count many more creatures than just turtles. The team partnered with the Wildlife Conservation Society in Brazil, Colombia, and Bolivia to test the method by essentially conduct a census of the endangered turtles. These elusive reptiles are exceptionally social animals, and the females congregate annually to nest in the sandbanks of the Guapore River between Brazil and Bolivia during the summer months. In the past, scientist used drones and relied on whats known as the orthomosaic strategy (stitching together hundreds of overlapping aerial photographs) to count turtles, as its a quicker and less-invasive approach than counting from the ground. While common, the study explains that the style is subject to detection errors that often get overlooked, and struggles to account for movement during observations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the new research, the team used white paint to mark the shells of 1,187 turtles. A drone flew overhead via a planned path four times a day for 12 days to snap 1,500 photos on each pass. The scientists then stitched the photos together, recording the path of each marked turtle, showing where it nested and where it walked. That information allowed the researchers to create probability models to account for turtle movement, all based on seen behaviors. According to the study, traditional orthomosaic-based counts were shown to be wildly inaccurate, as were the counts taken only from the ground. The new behavior modeling revealed that only 45 percent of turtles using the sandbank were present during drone flights, and roughly 20 percent of those seen walking were counted multiple times (some were counted as many as seven times). The discrepancies led to observers on the ground estimating that the site contained 16,000 turtles, and observers using the the drone orthomosaic strategy (without modeling) counted 79,000 turtles. When applying the new modeling based on movement, the team estimated the presence of around 41,000 turtles. These number vary greatly, and thats a problem for conservationists, Brack said. If scientists are unable to establish an accurate count of individuals of a species, how will they know if the population is in decline or whether efforts to protect it are successful? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For the plan to work, scientists must understand the movement patterns of animals, which could require clipping seals fur, using high-visibility collars on elk, or marking mountain goats with paintball pellets, to name a few examples. The study stated that counting animals when populations are spatially aggregatedsuch as during breeding or nestingenhances the accuracy and efficiency of surveying efforts. The team plans to refine the process, focusing on turtles in other South American countries. By combining information from multiple surveys, Brack said, we can detect population trends, and the Wildlife Conservation Society will know where to invest in conservation actions. You Might Also Like When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. An illustration of a supermassive black hole merging with a smaller black hole. Such interactions could produce asteroid-size black hole morsels as a byproduct and scientists are keen to study them. | Credit: Pitris via Getty Images Tiny black holes created in the aftermath of violent cosmic collisions could offer unprecedented insight into the quantum structure of space and time, a new theoretical study proposes. What's more, signals from these "black hole morsels" could potentially be detected by current instruments, scientists reported in the study, which was published in the journal Nuclear Physics B . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our work shows that if these objects are formed, their radiation might already be detectable using existing gamma-ray observatories," Francesco Sannino , a theoretical physicist at the University of Southern Denmark and co-author of the study, told Live Science via email. Hawking radiation and the smallest black holes One of the deepest mysteries in modern physics is how gravity behaves at the quantum level. The new study offers a bold proposal to explore this regime by looking for the glow produced by tiny black holes created in the aftermath of giant black hole collisions. The idea that black holes are not entirely black, and therefore could emit faint radiation, was first proposed by Stephen Hawking in the 1970s. His calculations revealed that quantum effects near a black hole's event horizon would cause it to emit radiation and lose mass a process now known as Hawking radiation. The black hole temperature is predicted to be inversely proportional to its mass. So for massive astrophysical black holes, the effect is minuscule, with temperatures so low that the radiation is effectively undetectable. But for very small black holes, the situation is different. "Black hole morsels are hypothetical micro-black holes that could be formed during the violent merger of two astrophysical black holes," Giacomo Cacciapaglia , a senior researcher at the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and co-author of the study, said in an email. "Unlike the larger parent black hole, these morsels are much smaller comparable in mass to asteroids and thus much hotter due to the inverse relationship between black hole mass and Hawking temperature." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: Scientists detect most massive black hole merger ever and it birthed a monster 225 times as massive as the sun Because of this elevated temperature, these morsels would evaporate relatively quickly, releasing bursts of high-energy particles such as gamma-rays and neutrinos . The team's analysis suggests that this radiation could form a distinct signal that may already be within reach of present-day detectors. A new handle on quantum gravity Although no such morsels have been observed yet, the researchers argue that the formation of these tiny black holes is theoretically plausible. "The idea is inspired by analogous processes in neutron star mergers," Stefan Hohenegger , senior researcher at the Institut de Physique des Deux Infinis de Lyon and co-author of the study, explained in an email. "It's supported by estimates from beyond-General Relativity frameworks, including string theory and extra-dimensional models." In such extreme environments, small-scale instabilities might pinch off tiny black holes during the merger process. These objects, in turn, could evaporate through Hawking radiation over timescales ranging from milliseconds to years, depending on their mass. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crucially, if such radiation is detected, it could open a window into new physics. "Hawking radiation encodes information about the underlying quantum structure of spacetime," Sannino said. "Its spectral properties could reveal deviations from the Standard Model at extreme energy scale, potentially leading to discoveries of unknown particles or such phenomena as extra dimensions predicted by various theories." Such energy scales lie far beyond the reach of even the most powerful particle colliders, like the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. The possibility that black hole morsels might provide a natural "accelerator" for probing these physics is what makes them so compelling. According to the team, the signature of a black hole morsel would be a delayed burst of high-energy gamma-rays radiating in all directions unlike typical gamma-ray bursts, which are usually beamed. Instruments capable of detecting such high-energy signals include atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes, like the High Energy Stereoscopic System (HESS), in Namibia; the High-Altitude Water Cherenkov Observatory (HAWC), in Mexico; and the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO) in China, as well as satellite-based detectors, like the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope. "Some of these instruments already have the sensitivity required," Hohenegger noted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The researchers didn't stop at theorizing. They used existing data from HESS and HAWC to place upper bounds on how much mass could be emitted in the form of morsels during known black hole mergers. These limits represent the first observational constraints on such phenomena. "We showed that if black hole morsels form during mergers, they would produce a burst of high-energy gamma rays, with the timing of the burst linked to their masses," Cacciapaglia said. "Our analysis demonstrates that this novel multimessenger signature can offer experimental access to quantum gravitational phenomena. What comes next While the study provides a compelling case for morsels, many uncertainties remain. The exact conditions for their formation are still poorly understood, and no full simulations have been performed at the scales necessary to model them. But the researchers are optimistic. RELATED STORIES Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement See the universe's rarest type of black hole slurp up a star in stunning animation Exotic 'blazar' is part of most extreme double black hole system ever found, crooked jet suggests Paperclip-sized spacecraft could visit a nearby black hole in the next century, study claims "Future work will involve refining the theoretical models for morsel formation and extending the analysis to include more realistic mass and spin distributions," Sannino said. The team also hopes to collaborate with observational astronomers to perform dedicated searches in both archived and upcoming datasets. "We hope this line of research will open a new window into understanding the quantum nature of gravity and the structure of spacetime," Hohenegger said. If black hole morsels exist, they may not only illuminate the sky with exotic radiation but could also shed light on some of the deepest unsolved questions in physics. The United States has imposed new sanctions on armed groups and companies accused of fueling violence and exploiting conflict minerals in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The sanctions target PARECO-FF, a militia accused of forced labor and civilian killings, as well as Congolese mining firm CDMC and two Hong Kong-based exporters, East Rise Corporation and Star Dragon Corporation. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, these entities were involved in illicit mining operations in Rubaya, a region rich in tantalum, cobalt, lithium and other critical minerals. PARECO-FF allegedly controlled Rubaya between 2022 and 2024, using violence to maintain control while smuggling minerals to international markets. The sanctions come amid renewed violence between the Congolese army and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, despite a U.S.-mediated ceasefire. Rubayas mines remain central to the ongoing conflict, producing up to 30% of the worlds coltan a key component in electronics. 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 Treasury Under Secretary John Hurley. The action falls under Executive Order 13413, which targets those undermining peace, security, or stability in the region, or supporting such activities through illicit trade in natural resources. The U.S. emphasized that these measures support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including the DRC-Rwanda Regional Economic Integration Framework, aimed at stabilizing the Great Lakes region and securing mineral supply chains vital to global industries. Scientists have documented a surprising rate of sex reversal in wild Australian birds, a phenomenon that could be explained by rising pollution or other environmental triggers. A study of five common Australian species, including kookaburras, magpies and lorikeets, found around six percent of birds had the chromosomes of one sex but the reproductive organs of another. The findings indicated a surprisingly high number of birds had reversed their sex after birth, said researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This indicates that sex determination in wild birds is more fluid than we thought, and can persist into adulthood," said study co-author Dominique Potvin. The study performed DNA tests on almost 500 birds. The overwhelming majority of sex reversals involved genetically female birds growing male gonads. "We also discovered a genetically male kookaburra who was reproductively active with large follicles and a distended oviduct, indicating recent egg production," said Potvin. Sex reversal is well known in certain species of reptile and fish but is thought to be rare in wild birds and mammals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Scientists have documented how pollutants and even warm temperatures can trigger sex reversal in frogs. The cause of sex reversal in wild birds was not clear, the University of the Sunshine Coast study said. But it could be due to environmental factors, such as hormone-disrupting chemicals building up in wild areas. "Understanding how and why sex reversal occurs is vital for conservation and for improving the accuracy of bird research," added Potvin. The study was published this week in peer-reviewed journal Biology Letters. sft/tc Scioto County Engineer Darren C. LeBrun announced the work schedule for the week of Aug. 18 through Aug. 21, 2025, for the engineers department. All dates shown are weather permitting. LANE RESTRICTIONS * Junior Furnace-Powellsville Road (CR7) in Green Township the bridge over US 52 is open. One lane will be maintained by traffic signals. * Cook Road (CR12) in Jefferson Township has a lane restriction at the 1.86-mile marker due to a roadway slip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * Henley Comstock Road (CR44) in Union Township has a lane restriction at the 1.65-mile marker due to roadway slip. ROAD CLOSURES * Henley Comstock Road (CR44) will be closed at the 2.89-mile marker for approximately 90 days. Contractor is installing a retaining wall. * Clinton Furnace Road CR9 will be closed until further notice due to a slip. Road Closure is between Monroe Road TR310 and Knapp Road TR341. * Feurt Hill Road CR160 will be closed until further notice due to a roadway slip. Road Closure is between Eagle Creek Drive TR1618 and Maple Benner Road CR64. This is the hill section of Feurt Hill Road. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ROAD RESURFACING Traffic will be maintained with the use of flaggers. * Junior Road (CR277) in Green Township Monday, Aug. 18. * Junior Furnace-Powellsville Road (CR7) in Green Township Tuesday, Aug. 19 and Wednesday, Aug. 20. * Slab Run Road (CR126) in Washington Township Thursday, Aug. 21. MOWING * Clinton Furnace in Vernon Township. * Poplar Fork Road in Vernon and Green Townships. * Junior Road and Back Road. in Green Township. * Cockrells Run Road in Valley Township. * Henley Deemer Road in Union and Rush Townships. * Millers Run-Back Run Road and Millers Run-Fallen Timber Road in Madison, Jefferson and Valley Townships. Please call the Engineers office with any questions or concerns (740) 259-5541) or you can visit them on the web at SciotoCountyEngineer.org. A Seabrook police officer on leave from the department is now facing federal charges in Massachusetts for allegedly receiving videos showing the sexual abuse of children, prosecutors said Thursday. John Giarusso John Giarusso John Giarrusso, 49, of Haverhill, Mass., was previously arrested by the Essex County District Attorneys Office on child pornography charges. He was arrested again Thursday morning on a federal child pornography charge, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for Massachusetts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the charging documents, prosecutors allege on or about Oct. 16 and 17, 2024, Giarrusso knowingly received video files depicting child sexual abuse on Kik, a messaging and chat app. It is alleged that the victims in these videos appeared to be approximately 5 to 11 years old. According to an affidavit from Special Agent Adam Rayho with Homeland Security Investigations, police in Haverhill, Mass., (HPD) obtained records from Comcast Cable Communications for an IP address that identified the subscriber as John Giarrusso. Based on an HPD police report in which Giarrussos wife mentioned his employment, several online articles referencing his employment, and the Seabrook, New Hampshire Police Departments website, HPD identified Giarrusso as a Seabrook police officer. On Feb. 13, law enforcement obtained search warrants from the Haverhill District Court for the subject account and the Yahoo account for the email address associated with the subject, which records show is associated with the name Johnny G. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John Giarusso John Giarusso Agent Rayho writes he identified Giarrusso via imagery produced during the Kik search warrant including a short video of Giarrusso standing in front of a white door, wearing a green T-shirt and holding what appears to be a law enforcement badge in his hand, using his fingers to cover part of the badge so that only POLICE NH is visible on the badge. Giarrusso can be heard stating I love blue in the video, the affidavit says. On Feb. 28, 2025, local law enforcement secured a search warrant for Giarrussos residence and an arrest warrant for him from Haverhill District Court. On March 3, HPD and the Massachusetts State Police (MSP) executed the warrants. During the arrest, law enforcement seized a cellphone from Giarrusso. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, HPD and MSP conducted an audio recorded interview with Giarrusso after he waived his Miranda rights. During the interview Giarrusso was asked if he had ever seen child pornography and he replied, I dont think so. When investigators asked Giarrusso if he was familiar with Kik, he replied, No, not very. Investigators asked Giarrusso, Not very, or no? and Giarrusso replied, Ive seen it. When asked if he had Kik, Giarrusso replied, No, and denied it would be on his phone if his phone was checked. He subsequently stated, Maybe years ago. Giarusso affidavit Giarrusso, who's been out on bail on the state charges following his initial arrest in March, was due in federal court in Boston Thursday afternoon. It wasn't immediately known if he had an attorney who could speak to the charge he faces, which carries a sentence of between 5 and 20 years in prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When he was first arrested, the Seabrook Police Department issued a statement saying he'd been placed on administrative leave, and the department was cooperating with Haverhill police. "While the Seabrook Police Department adheres to the principle that those accused of crimes are innocent until proven guilty, given the nature of the accused crimes, the department immediately placed Ofc. Giarrusso on administrative leave," Seabrook police said in the statement. The charge of receipt 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. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. ANDERSON COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A search for a man accused of sexually abusing an Upstate teenager has ended in an officer-involved shooting in North Carolina. The Anderson County Sheriffs Office announced Thursday morning that 40-year-old Ricky Dean Clinton was captured by the U.S. Marshals after an exchange of gunfire in Cleveland County. Clinton is wanted for a slew of charges, including human trafficking of a child, indecent liberties with a child, first-degree kidnapping, sexual servitude of a minor, delivering a controlled substance to a minor and statutory rape. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies reported in July that the agency was looking for Clinton after he was charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct with a minor for having an alleged relationship with a teenage girl in Honea Path. It was also reported that a 15-year-old from Gaffney was last seen after leaving behind a suicide note and cell phone. However, investigators believed the teen may have been in contact with Clinton. The U.S. Marshals recently announced they were assisting in locating the suspect in August. The agency, along with the Burke County Sheriffs Office, went to serve warrants to Clinton when the suspect reportedly shot at authorities. Law enforcement returned fire, injuring Clinton, according to deputies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No other injuries have been reported at this time. The shooting remains under investigation by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. GIBSON CITY, Ill. (WCIA) The search for 70-year-old David Jordan continues. Last week WCIA reported that officers responded to a call about a naked man in Gibson City. When police showed up they were met with gunfire and the suspect, later identified as Jordan, ran away. On Wednesday, State Police searched for Jordan on Route 47. Wednesday morning, WCIA obtained the calls first responders got from dispatch as this situation unfolded. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It all started on Aug. 9 in Gibson City. There was a call about a naked male subject running around, and first responders soon arrived on scene. They ended up finding Jordan, a 70-year-old man who fit the description. But when officers went to confront Jordan walking on Ash street, the situation took a turn for the worse. Multiple shots were fired. One from the Gibson City units was struck, dispatch said. And a Ford County Sheriffs Deputy was also hit by the gunfire. Shortly after the shooting, Jordans house went up in flames. Thats when police lost track of Jordan. UPDATE: Sibley investigation was for report of person walking in fields; no one found yet Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre unsure where the suspect is. Only description they have is a male white male white subject, dispatch continued. They began patrolling the area looking for Jordan. They searched through the neighborhood, the city limits and shut down roads and highways. When you get in town shut down the road off of 47, Route 9 junction. Send him north or southwest on 47. Dont let him come into town. Shut down traffic on Route 9 at 54. Dont let anybody come west, dispatch said. Law enforcement still hasnt found Jordan. The search has lasted nearly five days. If you have information on Jordans whereabouts contact law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com. Police are turning to the public for help with tracking down a pregnant teenager from Rehoboth who has been missing for a week. Kylee Monteiro, 18, was last seen in the area of County Street in Rehoboth on Thursay, August 7, according to a missing persons poster shared by the Rehoboth Police Department. Friends and family say Monteiros last known location was at her boyfriends house and that shes highly unlikely to cut off all contact with social media and loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monteiro is described as about 6 feet tall, heavy set, with light brown hair and brown eyes. Its believed she was last wearing a red t-shirt with the phrase, Get Over It, printed on the front, ripped blue jeans, and tan boots. The Bristol County State Police Detective Unit, the Rehoboth Police Department, and SEMLEC Search and Rescue were looking for Monteiro in the area of County and New streets on Wednesday. Family told Boston 25 News that hundreds of law enforcement officers are involved in the search. Anyone with information on Monteiros whereabouts is urged to contact Trooper Sabrina Hinchey at 508-972-1041 or Rehoboth Police Detective Paul McGovern at 508-252-3722. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Italian authorities searched Thursday for migrants missing at sea after two crowded boats sank off the island of Lampedusa, killing at least 27 people. As many as a dozen or more people are still unaccounted for following Wednesday's disaster, according to testimony from among the 60 survivors, mostly from Somalia. Three minors, including a newborn baby, and seven women and 13 men were among the dead, according to the prosecutor's office in Agrigento, on Sicily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Post-mortem examinations confirmed that those 23 died of drowning, according to the ANSA news agency. UN officials said 27 people were confirmed dead so far. The two boats had left Tripoli, Libya, earlier on Wednesday, Italy's coastguard said. It is believed one of the boats started taking on water, causing people to climb onto the other boat, which then capsized. At Lampedusa's cemetery on Thursday evening, where many of the bodies are being kept, some women came and left flowers, and prayed for the dead. "It seemed fitting, at least to stop by and say a prayer for these people who were seeking a better life," said Donata, a holidaymaker visiting the island who declined to give her family name. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They did nothing, and they died," she told AFP. - 'Waves took them both' - An Italian helicopter had spotted a capsized boat and several bodies in the water on Wednesday about 14 nautical miles off Lampedusa. One Somali woman lost her son and husband, according to an account reported by the Corriere della Sera newspaper. "I had my son in my arms and my husband beside me. I don't know how, but we found ourselves in the water. The waves took them both away from me," she said. Lampedusa, just 90 miles (145 kilometres) off the coast of Tunisia, is often the first point of arrival for people trying to reach Europe in leaky or overcrowded boats. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But it is also a tourist hotspot, famed for its white sand beaches. On Thursday, it was filled with holidaymakers visiting for Friday's Ferragosto public holiday, with pleasure boats using the same port as the vessels searching for the missing. - Deadly crossing - Two of the survivors were taken by helicopter to Sicily for treatment, while the other 58 were being cared for in the reception centre on the island, according to the Red Cross. Twenty-one of them are minors and "generally in good health", said Imad Dalil, the Red Cross official who runs the reception centre. He said the majority of the survivors are Somali, with a few Egyptians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Around 95 people were on the boats, UN officials reported initially, but ANSA said it appeared there may have been more, perhaps 100 to 110 people. Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, had earlier confirmed the toll of 27 dead. "Over 700 refugees and migrants have now died in 2025 in the Central Mediterranean", which the UN judges to be the world's deadliest maritime migrant crossing, he wrote on social media. "All responses -- rescue at sea, safe pathways, helping transit countries and addressing root causes -- must be strengthened," he said. Despite the tragedy laying bare the risks, the migrant boats kept coming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Four others were intercepted off Lampedusa overnight, according to the Red Cross, while more migrants arrived during Thursday. More than 260 people were being held in the reception centre waiting for processing as of Thursday evening, ANSA said. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered her "deepest condolences" to the victims and vowed to step up efforts to tackle migrant traffickers. Her hard-right government took office in 2022 vowing to cut the number of migrants crossing the Mediterranean to Europe. More than 38,500 people have arrived on Italian shores so far this year, according to interior ministry figures. This is slightly up on last year but well below the 100,000 reported by the same time in 2023. sl-ar/js DENVER (KDVR) Seasonal dog on-leash requirements for several open space trails in the city of Boulder will go into effect Friday. The city said Wednesday that the on-leash requirements will be in place to try and help minimize disturbances in sensitive bear habitats. Man found dead near Boulder Falls following Apple SOS notifications City-managed open space and natural areas provide important habitat for black bears, the city said in a release. The dog leash requirement is intended to minimize dog-bear encounters where high-quality bear foraging habitat is near trails. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The on-leash requirements are timed to coincide with when bears begin to eat large amounts of food in open space, in order to gain enough weight to last them through winter hibernation, the city said. The on-leash requirements will be in effect through Monday, Dec. 1 in the following open space and mountain park areas: Parts of Gregory Canyon, Saddle Rock, Amphitheater and Bluebell-Baird Trails Skunk Canyon up to the Mesa Trail Shadow Canyon South from the Mesa Trail up to the intersection with Shadow Canyon North The upper part of the Doudy Draw Trail above Springbrook Loop Colorados 14ers continue to draw hikers: New report shows 2% increase in 2024 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city reminded residents who qualify that they are allowed to walk their dogs off-leash on many open spaces and mountain park trails as part of the citys Voice and Sight Tag Program. With that in mind, the city said community members should always have their dogs leashed in the event wildlife is present to prevent encounters. The city also encourages residents to ensure trash containers are locked, so that bears who come looking for food are not more likely to stick around. More information about open space dog regulations and trail updates in Boulder can be found online via an interactive map. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver. SOPHIA, WV (WVNS) Residents at Apple Tree Apartments geared up for the school year with their annual Back to School Bash. Beckley Art Center highlights local creators with Hills to Holler exhibit The annual event gives kids access to supplies and resources to help prepare them for another year of learning. But its not all pencils and backpacks. The kids are also having meaningful interactions and picking up stills to serve them later in life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not only are they getting school supplies, they are getting tools to help them with other things, said Terrian Graham, Public Housing Manager of Southern West Virginia Housing. Whether it be learning how to write a check or to cook healthy foods and stuff. So, were also giving them tools. The Back to School Bash is in its second year this year and organizers say it continues to grow. Kids are clocking plenty of playtime and picking of valuable skills in the celebratory send-off to summer. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. For the second time in just over three months, an inmate has escaped custody at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Surveillance footage shows 20-year-old John Nino "appears to have removed his wrist restraints" before bolting toward Highway 99, according to a Facebook update Wednesday morning from the Washington Department of Corrections (DOC). The breakout happened shortly before 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, while Nino was being transported through Sea-Tac. The DOC said he was last seen wearing a red coat and dark gray or black sweatpants before fleeing across the light rail tracks on the east side of the airport and heading toward International Boulevard and Highway 99. Smiling Fugitive Recaptured And Returned To Kentucky After Dramatic Airport Escape Surveillance footage shows John Nino running inside Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Aug. 12, 2025. "If you see Nino, do not approach him. Please call 911," the department warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nino, who is 6-foot-2 and 154 pounds, was under community supervision for a second-degree robbery conviction in Thurston County. The DOC issued a warrant for his arrest in June after he failed to meet with his community corrections officer. Nino was arrested several days ago in New Mexico and was being returned to Washington state custody when he slipped away. Passenger In Custody After 'Direct Threat' To Airplane Shuts Down Seattle Airport Runways In May, inmate Sedrick T. Stevenson escaped from Sea-Tac while being transported to Kentucky in a case not handled by the DOC, the department clarified in an email to Fox News Digital. Stevenson ran through the terminal, boarded the light rail and remained at large for over a month before his June capture. FOX 13 Seattle, which has closely tracked both incidents, noted this is the second such escape from Sea-Tac in under 100 days. Read On The Fox News App Sedrick T. Stevenson, 28, is wanted for allegedly escaping police at a Seattle airport. The DOC has not said whether any changes have yet been made to transport protocols. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email to Fox News Digital, DOC officials said it is "focused on finding [Nino]" but will conduct a "critical incident review" to determine how he was able to escape. Original article source: Second inmate in three months escapes Seattle airport custody, caught on video without restraints In a breakthrough for Angolas diamond sector, London-based mining giant De Beers has announced the discovery of a new kimberlite field the companys first such find in more than three decades. The discovery, made in July 2025 through its joint venture with Angolas state-owned diamond firm Endiama, is a result of airborne surveys conducted earlier this year. Kimberlites, a rare volcanic rock that transports diamonds from deep within the Earth to the surface, are the primary sources of mined diamonds. The newly intersected kimberlite lies in a high-priority target zone identified using advanced geophysical techniques. Angola is, in our view, one of the best places on the planet to look for diamonds, and this discovery reinforces our confidence, said Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group. He also praised the Angolan governments efforts to improve transparency and foster international investment in mining. The find stems from two mineral investment contracts signed in 2022 and a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. It comes at a time when parent company Anglo American is preparing to divest De Beers to shift its focus on mining copper and iron ore, with multiple buyers reportedly expressing interest, including the Government of Botswana. Exploration will continue with further drilling and lab analysis to assess the diamond potential of the site. If commercially viable, the field could bolster Angolas economy and help stabilize global diamond supply amid tightening reserves and rising demand. We are excited about the role De Beers can play in helping the country deliver on its huge potential, both below and above the ground, Al Cook added. KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) A second man now faces charges stemming from a deadly shooting during a 2021 break-in in Kalamazoo. Julius Curtis Robinson Jr., 28, is being charged with felony murder, first-degree home invasion, armed robbery and three felony weapons charges, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety said Thursday. Man dead after shooting in Kalamazoo The charges date back to a shooting on June 26, 2021, at a home on North Rose Street. Investigators say two masked people forced their way into the home to commit a robbery and shot 33-year-old Gerryon Kye, who had multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene. Isaiah Willhite, 23, was arrested and charged in 2023 on charges stemming from the break-in. He was convicted and found guilty in July. His sentencing was postponed and is set for Oct. 10. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Man guilty of murder in 2021 break-in in Kalamazoo Robinson is currently in a federal prison in West Virginia for a felony weapons charge after he opened fire on another customer at a liquor store in Oshtemo Township in 2023. No one was harmed in that case. He is expected to be released January 2030, online prison records show. KDPS Capt. Danielle Guilds, the head of the Criminal Investigations Division, said that the charges against Robinson are a step toward justice for the victim. This case has been a long road for our detectives and for the Kye family, Guild said. The charges against Mr. Robinson represent another step toward justice for Gerryon and his loved ones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case is still under investigation and anyone with information should contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 269.337.8139. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Kalamazoo Silent Observers tip line at 269.343.2100. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. STAR-ADVERTISER FILE A man gets close to pounding waves on the cliff at Spitting Caves in Portlock. Honolulu firefighters rescued a woman in distress at Spitting Caves on Tuesday night. STAR-ADVERTISER FILE A man gets close to pounding waves on the cliff at Spitting Caves in Portlock. Honolulu firefighters rescued a woman in distress at Spitting Caves on Tuesday night. Honolulu firefighters rescued a woman in distress at Spitting Caves on Tuesday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Honolulu Fire Department responded to a call just before 7 p.m. for a woman in her 30s who had jumped into water at Spitting Caves at Portlock, but was unable to get back to shore on her own. Two firefighters jumped in and swam to the woman about 100 yards from shore as the rescue boat made its way to pick her up. She was brought safely back to shore, where medical care was transferred to Honolulu Emergency Medical Services. It was the second Spitting Caves rescue after sundown within three days. On Sunday, HFD received a 911 call at 7 :09 p.m. for a man in his 30s in distress at Spitting Caves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man was reportedly swept off the rocks and unable to swim back to shore. A good Samaritan threw him a rescue tube installed at Spitting Caves. Two firefighters jumped in the water and were at the swimmers side about 200 yards offshore within 15 minutes while a rescue boat was en route from the Hawaii Kai boat ramp. The HFD Air 1 helicopter, meanwhile, provided light to help with navigating the large surf and darkness. The man was brought to shore, where care was transferred to EMS at 8 :04 p.m. HFD urges beachgoers to stay within their swimming or fitness abilities and to be aware that areas like Spitting Caves can be slippery or that waves may strike and knock them over, potentially causing a fall or injury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources recently released a safety video, warning of the dangers at Spitting Caves and China Walls, where the waves and currents can be perilous and where people. 4 Comments By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our. Having trouble with comments ? . Publix Super Markets is coming into Owensboro in a big way. Wednesday, the company announced that it has signed a lease for a second location in town. This one will be at Yellow Banks Square, which will be on the 13.7-acre property at 2800 W. Parrish Ave. It stretches over to Carter Road, just south of Lees Famous Recipe Chicken. Its just north of North York Street. Murphys Investments owns the property. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gary Murphy said, Its going to be huge for the west side. He said Yellow Banks Square will be a shopping center developed by Publix. Murphy said he didnt know what other stores will go into Yellow Banks Square. But it will also have two out lots, he said. Its going to be great for our town, Murphy said. He said hes also talking with a restaurant about building on two acres near Tractor Supply. Murphy said Publix agreed to the project a year ago. They said Owensboro is definitely a two-store town, he said. This has been a dream of ours, Murphy said. The west side of Owensboro has seen little development in recent years with most new projects going to Kentucky 54. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nothing has been filed with the Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission about the plans for the new center. Publix is already building a 50,325-square-foot store on the northwest corner of Pleasant Valley Road and Hayden Road. Its scheduled to open in a few weeks. The west side store would be the same size. And each would employ about 150 people. Jared Glover, media relations manager for Publix, said in a news release, We are excited to continue our growth across Kentucky with our second location in Owensboro. We look forward to making grocery shopping a pleasure for our new customers soon. Publix supermarkets typically have a large deli, produce department, a bakery, a meat department, seafood and a full-service pharmacy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its the largest employee-owned company in the United States with more than 260,000 associates. The company currently operates 1,412 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky. Publix entered the Kentucky market with a Louisville location in January 2024. It has announced plans for more than a dozen others, including the two in Owensboro. Only four are open today as contractors race to build them all. The company reported sales of $59.7 billion last year. Grocery wars are heating up here. Kroger has won approval from the Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission for a new store at 2224 Pleasant Valley Road and 3433 Hayden Road on the eastern entrance to Gateway Commons. The city already has three Krogers, two Walmarts, two IGAs, a Sams Club, a Meijer, a Price Less and an Aldi. Hillsborough deputies have arrested a second suspect in a 2023 drive-by shooting in Tampa that left a man dead. Jaylen Banae Whittaker, 24, was arrested Tuesday in Tampa on a first-degree murder charge in connection with the fatal shooting of Leon Michael Washington, 29. Deputies responded about 2:15 p.m. on May 29, 2023, to a shooting call at the Del Rio Apartments, in the 6800 block of North 50th Street, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office. They found Washington dead from a gunshot wound. Witness accounts and surveillance video led investigators to determine that Jalen Lavar Rogers, 28, was driving the gold Hyundai Elantra involved in the shooting, court records show. Deputies arrested Rogers on June 15, 2023, on a first-degree murder charge. He admitted at the time that he was driving the car, records state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More than a year later, on Sept. 16, 2024, Rogers volunteered information to assist the investigation, according to Whittakers arrest affidavit and a motion that prosecutors filed to keep him in jail pending trial. During an interview that day with detectives in the Falkenburg Road Jail, Rogers said Whittaker was the front-seat passenger in the Hyundai, told him to drive to the Del Rio Apartments and had a long gun in his possession at the time of the shooting, court documents state. Rogers said Whittaker and a back seat passenger began to shoot at Washington as Rogers drove off. On April 23 of this year, detectives interviewed Whittaker at the the. Records show he was serving a two-year sentence for fleeing to elude law enforcement, false imprisonment and drug possession. Whittaker said he was in the front seat of the Hyundai at the time of the shooting, but he denied having a gun or firing one, court records state. He also said he couldnt provide information about two people who were in the back seat of the Hyundai at the time of the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whittaker was released from prison on June 14. Last month, Rogers pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of second-degree murder and agreed to testify against Whittaker, court documents show. Rogers faces up to life in prison but has not yet been sentenced. Booking records show Whittaker was arrested near his home on Clifton Street and was being held without bond Thursday. The Hillsborough State Attorneys Office filed a motion this week arguing that he presents a danger to the community and should remain in custody. A hearing on the motion is set for Monday. Washington attended King High School in Tampa and was a father of eight, according to his obituary. NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) Following viral videos and reports of intense flooding throughout New York City, officials have warned it could simply be our new reality, so how do we learn to deal with it? The website Flood Help NY lets New Yorkers see if an area is in a high flood risk zone and, if so, what to do to protect themselves and their property. Residents and business owners can search their address and get individualized guidance on how best to prevent flooding. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flood Help NY is aimed at informing New Yorkers about how they can protect from flooding thats expected to get worse due to climate change, the website said. Additionally, organizers give guidance on how to reduce flood risk and lower insurance rates. The platform comes by way of the Mayors Office of Climate and Environmental Justice, the Governors Office of Storm Recovery and the Center for NYC Neighborhoods. More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State Previously, the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, Rohit Aggarwala, explained that the citys stormwater system was not built to manage as much water as it currently gets in a short amount of time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, Aggarwala says that residents will have to learn ways to protect themselves from flooding as the city works to update its system in the coming years. 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. Photographs of people who died because of violence are laid on the table at an event in Selma on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025. The photographs were printed on cloth that will be stitched together to make a quilt to commemorate the victims and promote the healing process for family members. (Ralph Chapoco/Alabama Reflector) Friends and relatives of gun violence victims gathered Saturday at the Selma Center for Nonviolence, Truth, and Reconciliation on Saturday to lay out the design of a quilt honoring their loved ones. The project, Underneath the Quilt Youre Safe, stitches together the photographs of those who died, framed by the fabric of their favorite colors, and includes words of inspiration that stemmed from the tragedies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is not just a quilt, it is something that draws you to start the healing process if you are not already in the healing process, and to help you continue the healing process if you have already started it, said Callie Greer, a community navigator with Alabama Appleseed and a designer of the quilt, on Saturday. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The quilt is one of several honoring gun violence victims. Separate quilts honor firearm victims from Montgomery and Birmingham.. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alabama has the fourth-highest rate of firearm-related deaths in the country, at 25.5 per 100,000 people. The state, which has a population of 5.1 million, had more total gun deaths in 2022 (1,278) than New York State (1,044), which has a population of 19.9 million. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The quilt for Selma will highlight Zechariah Brown, 16, whose mother, Tenesha Brown, wanted him to be remembered. Teneshia Brown was getting food to feed her son and his friends one day in February 2020 when she received a call from her other son that Zechariah had been shot. When I got over there, I saw my son, face down on the ground, Tenesha said. I immediately hopped out of the car and grabbed my son and said, Dont die on me now. I just got to rocking my child while we were on the ground. Another person on the quilt is Taffine Renee Berry, whose sister Lashanda Smith, attended Saturdays event in Selma. Berry died in March 2015 after she and her husband were shot while attending the reception for the funeral of one of her friends who had passed away. She got shot in the neck, and she didnt make it, Smith said. No one has been convicted of the crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am her only sister, Smith said. I am here to let everyone know; someone took a beautiful person from us, with a bright future ahead of her, with three kids and a husband, they took her away from us. I am standing here today to let everyone know, I am still standing. I am still fighting for justice for my sister. Remonia Minor also attended the event. Her son, Ryan Snell, 22, was visiting Troy in 2021 when he was shot and killed. It is like being stuck in that moment, Minor said of the death of her son. I describe it as being able to move one foot but not being able to move the other. It is like being stuck in that particular timeframe. You want to move forward, but it is a process, a very hard journey to move forward. Charlene Davison lost her daughter Nikita Walker, 26, in June 2024 when she intervened in a domestic dispute to protect her friend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was trying to stop an argument because the guy was cursing out his kids mom, Davison said. She didnt want the kids to be hearing that. Despite the losses, Alabama has some of the most permissive firearm laws in the nation. Everytown ranks the state 34th of all states in the country in terms of the strength of its laws pertaining to firearms. No permits are required to carry a concealed firearm. During the most recent legislative session, Republicans in the Legislature voted against a bill that would have effectively required parents to safely store their firearms. Victims can continue to be added as more families submit names and photos to add to the quilt. The quilts can be displayed at rallies and for different events. Dont waste your pain, Greer said. Use it to create something terribly beautiful, like this quilt. CHEYENNE State Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette, announced his bid for governor of Wyoming on Tuesday in Wright. Barlow served in the Wyoming House of Representatives for five consecutive terms from 2013 to 2022 before he began his first Senate term in 2023. He was Speaker of the House in 2021 and 2022, and currently chairs the Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee and the Mental Health and Vulnerable Adults Task Force, as well as serving on the Select Committee on Tribal Relations. Unlike some other candidates, his candidacy is not rooted in specific priorities or policies, he said. Rather, he would serve as a voice responding to his constituents needs, whether that be Wyoming energy independence, rural health access or water infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I love Wyoming. I love her honest, hardworking people whose grit and independent spirit make our beloved state so great, Barlow said in a prepared statement. Kelly and I have been blessed to raise our children, Kate and Graham, here. I want the next generations to have even greater opportunities and a future here in Wyoming. According to his campaign website, Barlows approach to public service is to show up, listen and get the job done. My approach has always been to listen, learn and do the work, Barlow said in the statement. Wyoming deserves leaders who show up, who do the work, and who get results. Thats what Ive done and thats exactly the kind of governor I will be. Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette (2025) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette He is a fourth-generation Wyomingite who was born and raised in Campbell County on his familys ranch. After graduating from Campbell County High School in 1984, Barlow joined the U.S. military and served in the Marine Corps. Following his military service, he went to school in Colorado and earned his Ph.D. in veterinary medicine. While he and his wife were both in school, their two children were born. The family moved to Newcastle, where Barlow practiced as a veterinarian before ending up in Gillette two years later. His practice primarily focuses on caring for cattle, sheep and bison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Barlows father passed away, he and Kelly took charge of the family ranch in Campbell County, where they raised their two children, with Kelly primarily homeschooling them. Eric Barlow was appointed to the Wyoming Livestock Board in 2006 and served for six years before seeking election to the Wyoming House of Representatives. Together, they now raise cattle, sheep and yak on the family ranch. As an elected official, Barlow said he has supported energy independence, property tax reductions, access to health care and private property rights. I am a leader who stands firmly on sound, conservative principles and who will fiercely defend your rights, including the Second Amendment and sanctity of life. As your next governor, I will protect your private property rights, safeguard our public lands, and keep Washington, D.C., out of Wyomings business, he said in the statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 2026 race for Wyoming governor is still relatively uncrowded. So far, only two other candidates have announced a bid for the states top elected seat: Brent Bien, a Republican from Cody who ran unsuccessfully in the 2022 GOP primary, and Joseph Kibler, a Republican from Cheyenne who runs a web development and marketing company. Former U.S. Senate candidate Reid Rasner, who lost by a wide margin in the 2024 Republican primaries to Sen. John Barrasso and who has ambitions to purchase TikTok, has filed a campaign finance account for governor but has yet to announce his candidacy. The other key players at the moment are the incumbent, Gov. Mark Gordon, who would have to challenge existing term limits to seek a third consecutive term; first-term Secretary of State Chuck Gray, who also is a former state legislator; and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, who was elected to a second two-year term last November. None have made formal announcements of their intentions. In 2013, the Wyoming Supreme Court ruled that term limits on the top elected positions in the state were unconstitutional, but omitted the governors terms from the ruling. This means Gordon could seek to amend the Constitution in a court challenge if he wanted to seek a third term. It is unclear whether that challenge would be successful, and he had not indicated any intention to do so at the time of publication. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, Gray released an internal poll of how he would fare if he sought election to the seat of governor or the states sole seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Though he has not announced if or which seat he would seek, he indicated it is likely dependent on what Hageman does. Hageman has not yet indicated whether she will seek reelection to a third term in the U.S. House next year or make a run for governor. The interior of the unfinished Unit 2 nuclear reactor pictured Sept. 12, 2024, at VC Summer nuclear site near Fairfield. (Provided by S.C. Nuclear Advisory Council) AIKEN South Carolinas senior senator is doubling down on his support for a potential reboot of a failed nuclear power plant expansion in the state. We dont have enough power in this country already, Sen. Lindsey Graham told reporters in Aiken last week to cut the ribbon on a new, $66 million nuclear research center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wake up call; America needs to get back into the nuclear business, he continued. We need to build nuclear power plants and get them up and operating. His stance has only strengthened since January, when Graham told SC Public Radio he was open to trying to revitalize the completion of partially built nuclear reactors in Fairfield County. State-owned utility Santee Cooper and now-defunct South Carolina Electric & Gas were partners on the V.C. Summer expansion, which was a first-of-its-kind design and marked the first new nuclear construction in the country in 40 years. When the companies abandoned the effort in 2017 after jointly spending $9 billion Graham unsuccessfully sought federal help to keep it going during President Donald Trumps first term. Last week, Graham pointed to the fraud and abuse that plagued the V.C. Summer project as the reason behind its failure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The debacle left customers of Virginia-based Dominion Energy, which bought out SCE&Gs parent company SCANA in the aftermath, on the hook for more than $2 billion for reactors that never generated power. Santee Coopers share of the debt was $3.6 billion. Unlike South Carolina, Georgia pushed forward with its own, nearly-identical reactor, finishing it seven years late and $17 billion over budget. Then, in October 2024, members of a state nuclear advisory group started batting around the idea of restarting the project. In late January, Santee Cooper put out a call for a potential buyer. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright speak Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, during a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus. (Photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette) U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, speaking to reporters alongside Graham in Aiken last week, said he met with Gov. Henry McMaster in Washington, D.C., about the effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These are plants that have got a lot of the construction already done a lot of the engineering has already been done, Wright said. Can these be up and running faster and cheaper than starting from scratch? Absolutely. I think its a tremendous idea. Proponents have also pointed to revitalization efforts at other nuclear plants across the country. A unit at the Tennessee Valley Authoritys Watts Bar nuclear plant came online in 2016, 43 years after construction began. The timeline included a 22-year gap: Work halted in 1985, then resumed in 2007. And developers struck a deal last year to restart the remaining unit at Pennsylvanias Three Mile Island, where a second unit suffered its notorious partial meltdown in 1979, to power a Microsoft data center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Santee Cooper announced in May it had received some 50 proposals. Now, those applicants are partnering off and submitting joint bids for a second round of vetting. Utility officials expect to continue the bidding process at least through February and possibly until November 2026. My goal is to make sure they are up and operating. We cannot lose the nuclear energy race, Graham said. Weve let this atrophy. We let the whole nuclear energy footprint kind of go into the dark. Were going to finish these reactors. Too much money has been spent, and we need the power. Graham took credit for negotiations that continued Biden administration tax incentives for nuclear construction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The GOP megalaw signed by President Donald Trump last month ends tax credits for wind and solar projects years earlier than planned under Bidens hallmark clean energy package of 2022. Under changes in the big, beautiful law, those projects must be up and running by the end of 2027 to qualify. U.S. House Republicans sought to strip the credits for nuclear too. But senators, including Graham, insisted on keeping those incentives. I want to preserve the nuclear tax credit, Graham said this week in Anderson. They tried to eliminate it, do away with all the green energy. I think the nuclear tax credit is good for the environment and good for the grid. Im hopeful by the end of the year well have a new owner for those plants. Graham chairs the U.S. Senate Budget Committee, but he suggested the credits offer enough aid to get the project done, making taxpayer dollars through a budget earmark unnecessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The tax credits make all the difference, he said. For nuclear energy, developers can still claim a 30% federal tax credit tax for investments through 2032. V.C. Summer would likely qualify for an additional 10% credit in the new law for nuclear energy communities, or sites with a history of employees in the nuclear sector. As for the timetable, an executive order signed by Trump in May aims to speed up the licensing process. Critics have raised concerns this could undermine safety measure. But Wright suggested safety will increase because regulators have fewer factors to consider. The regulations are so cumbersome and so bureaucratic, nothing gets built. And when you try to get people to focus on 200 things, you dont get focus on anything, he said. Wright and Graham also touted nuclear, which does not emit greenhouse gases, as a clean source of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Allred, of the Coastal Conservation League, said while its true nuclear does not pollute the air the way fossil fuels do, it comes with other environmental risks. The state has already experienced radioactive waste leaks, both at the federal Savannah River Site near Aiken, and at Chem Nuclear in Barnwell County, a privately owned landfill for low-level radioactive waste. The landfill has been closed to most of the nation since 2008. Allred said opening more nuclear plants would mean more nuclear waste. That raises some concerns that things could get missed, and there isnt a lot of room for error when it comes to nuclear power and radioactive waste, he told Fox 24 News in Charleston, in a clip shared by the Coastal Conservation League. It would be potentially devastating to our communities to start having that accelerate. Paul Hyde contributed to this report from Anderson. SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) California Senator Adam Schiff toured the Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank Wednesday to highlight the impact of the Big Beautiful Bill which was signed earlier this year. The bill includes changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) known as CalFresh in California. The Food Bank says in San Diego nearly 60% of meals distributed every month come from SNAP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schiff toured the San Diego location because it serves about 400,000 residents every single month. Theres no reason we cant feed everyone thats hungry in California, he said. When cuts are made to federal food assistance programs and programs like Medicaid, more people come to food banks, weve seen those lines increase, said CEO Casey Castillo. We are anticipating more of those lines to increase, not just this year but in the coming years. The Food Bank says its already seeing a year-over-year increase in the number of people seeking assistance and this comes when federal cuts have halted programs that incentivize farmers to grow nutritious foods for people in need. Cuts have also stalled other programs that provide high quality foods like meats and milk to families. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. BARRE, VT (WVNY/WFFF) Vermont Senator Peter Welch met with food experts at a farmers market in Barre today. Hearing firsthand how federal cuts to Three Squares Vermont are impacting their mission. Welch heard from food banks, grocers, and farmers at Currier Park in Barre; home to a farmers market every Wednesday. The senator says at least 6,000 Vermonters are at risk of losing snap benefits because of the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the way, theyre not just going to hurt our Vermonters, theyre going to hurt folks in red states. Its not going to be whether you voted for Trump or voted for you voted for Harris. Its if youre hungry, and youre dependent on snap, youre going to be out of luck, says Welch. He focused on the more than 600 retailers and 40 farmers markets that accept SNAP, that will lose business, and how community food programs will have to pick up the slack. Alison Calderara is with Capstone Community Action and says two years ago, their food shelf saw roughly 5,200 people annually, but today, its up to over 8,600. Executive Director of Capstone Community Action, Alison Calderara says, when I ask these Vermonters, what a cuts to SNAP benefits would mean, you could see the look on their faces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre not buying things that are healthy for them anymore. Theyre buying things that are unhealthy for them because they need the calories. They need that to go further. So, that means that not supporting their local grocers, theyre shopping at big box stores, says Georgia Markets Store Owner Zev Werts. Welch voted against the mega-bill saying its an unnecessary tax cut for the wealthy. He also strongly opposes the White Houses move to request personal data from snap beneficiaries; data that Vermonts governor, confirmed, he did provide to the feds. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. South Sudan has rejected Israeli media reports alleging it is in discussions with Israel to resettle Palestinians from Gaza. In a statement on Wednesday, August 13, the Foreign Ministry said such claims are baseless and do not represent the Governments policy, urging media outlets to verify information with official sources before publication. The denial follows reports that Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel visited Juba to discuss relocation plansclaims also carried by Yedioth Ahronoth, which said Israel was in talks with five countries on the matter. The allegations emerge amid continued global condemnation of proposals, including one by US President Donald Trump, to remove Palestinians from Gaza under redevelopment schemes. Israels military campaign in Gaza, ongoing since October 2023, has killed more than 61,700 peoplemostly women and childrenprompting the International Criminal Court to issue arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ex-Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. How a serial killer may have helped find his daughters murderer in cold case A Georgia man is standing trial for the murder of his wife, who was also the daughter of a convicted serial killer. Opening statements got underway Thursday in the case against Christopher Wolfenbarger. A court document says Melissa Wolfenbargers remains were discovered in April and June of 1999. Her remains were identified via dental records in March 2003. And thats where Melissas father being a serial killer becomes important. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What triggered the identification, ultimately, is the arrest of Melissa Wolfenbargers father, deputy district attorney Vincent Faucette said. RELATED: Murder trial begins for husband accused of killing, dismembering wife 27 years ago A cold case solved in 2003 involving five murders is now inextricably involved with another cold case murder for which Christopher Wolfenbarger is on trial this week in Fulton County Superior Court. There is no evidence of these charges in this case, and thats why we will ask you at the end of this case to return a verdict of not guilty, defense attorneys argued Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carl Patton Jr. was the man arrested in 2003. Were told Melissa Wolfenbarger was his daughter, who had been the wife of Christopher Wolfenbarger. RELATED STORIES: He was charged in a 2024 indictment with her murder. Melissas father, Carl Patton, committed a string of murders in the late 1970s, defense attorneys said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We were there in 2003 when serial killer Patton Jr. was turned over to the custody of the Fayette County Sheriffs Office, already suspected of four killings in the 1970s known as the Flint River Murders, because the first two bodies discovered were found in or by the Flint River. He pled guilty to two murders in Clayton County, two in DeKalb County, and one in Henry County, said retired lawman Bruce Jordan. Jordan led the investigation into Patton as the chief investigator for the Fayette County Sheriffs Office. Jordan told Channel 2 investigative reporter Mark Winne that around the time Patton pled guilty to the four murders to which authorities had already connected him in Clayton and DeKalb counties, he told Jordan and prosecutors he had also killed a man in Henry County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that same meeting, he turned to Jordan with a request. He said, My daughters been missing for years. And he said, I didnt kill her. Would you put the time into finding her that you did find in me? I said, Well, I can try it, Jordan said. In a 2003 story, we talked about how Carls wife, Norma Patton, said she had turned to him for help to look for her daughter, Melissa. She stopped me and said, Now would you help me find my daughter? Jordan said. He seemed sincere, Norma Patton told Winne at the time. Jordan said he went from one metro Atlanta medical examiners office to the next looking for an unidentified body that might be Melissa, and later on the same day, he visited the Fulton County Medical Examiners Office. A Georgia Bureau of Investigation agent called him and said authorities had checked her dental records against a skull they had, and it was Melissa. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At some point in time, I no longer had standing in the fight, Jordan said. Jordan said that since he has been subpoenaed in the trial of Melissas husband, Christopher, hes limited in what he can say. But because her remains were discovered in Atlanta, the case belonged to Atlanta police, who announced in 2024 that they had arrested Christoper Wolfenbarger. I think the key definitely was the ability to re-interview witnesses, and line the facts up. To create the case. Circumstantial evidence case, but most cases are based on circumstantial evidence, Faucette told Winne in an interview last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The extent of her suffering in life and in death had nothing to do with Christopher Wolfenbarger, defense attorneys said Thursday. Were expecting Norma Patton to be a witness in the case, and from the defenses opening statement, Winne said he is expecting the defense to go after her in cross-examination. A serious alert has been issued at the Windsor home where Prince William and Kate Middleton live with their three children, Prince George, Prince Charlotte and Prince Louis. Per the BBC, the U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have both issued an amber heat health alert, in parts of England, including the surrounding areas of Adelaide Cottage, the home the family moved to in 2022 after leaving behind Kensington Palace in London. More from SheKnows Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As the UK continues to suffer the effects of an ongoing heatwave, which has caused wildfires and water shortages, Hello reports that the familys Windsor estate is particularly vulnerable given its countryside surroundings. These fires are a stark reminder that the U.K. is not immune to the dangers of extreme heat, Steve Cole, director of policy at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said, per Hello. With temperatures soaring and vegetation drying out, the risk of wildfires increases dramatically, even in urban and coastal areas. The fact is that many wildfires are preventable. Simple actionslike properly disposing of cigarettes, and avoiding open flames can make a huge difference, he added. Climate change is contributing to longer, hotter summers, and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Its unclear if the family is currently staying at the Windsor residence. Kate and Williams kids are coming to the end of the summer break, but not yet back to school. The family has been enjoying the summer out of the public eye, including with a yacht vacation in Greece in July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before you go, click here to see everything you need to know about Rose Hanbury, the close friend of Prince William & Kate Middleton. Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) AES Ohio is raising rates, but a settlement was reached to lower the percentage. AES Ohio announced Wednesday afternoon that they will be not be going forward with a 14 percent increase on rates, after a settlement knocked the number down to nine percent. Instead of customers bills going up an average of $21 per month, customers can expect the rate to be around $15 per month instead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AES Ohio and other interested parties have been negotiating the rate increase for weeks, finally reaching an agreement to raise rates, but at a lower rate than initially proposed. AES Ohio argues this increase will help pay for upgrades already made to delivery infrastructure, as well as repairs due to past and future storm damage. Over the last four years, weve had six major weather events, said Mary Ann Kabel, AES Ohio communications director. The negotiations that happened for several weeks, we are down to nine percent. Also in the settlement is an additional $1 million to AES Ohios Gift of Power fund, which assists customers that are having trouble paying their bills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The settlement happened between the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, AES Ohio, AES customers and the Ohio Consumers Counsel. The OCC is a state-run agency in charge of regulating the rates of public utilities. They have been working with PUCO and AES for weeks, saying they finally reached an agreement they feel is fair. I would consider this a win for consumers definitely, said JP Blackwood, OCC public affairs liaison. One of the things we negotiated was that the rate of return that AES was asking for was too high. The settlement also includes no reconnection fees, no electric vehicle cost shifting and a fairer review of transmission costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We feel like this settlement was really a good deal for consumers, said Blackwood. Were not going to sign on to a settlement unless we think its the best deal consumers are going to get. Before new rates can go into effect, the settlement is still required to be put before a five-person commission with PUCO. Thursdays public hearing will be held at 6 p.m. in Daytons City Hall. You can also submit comments online at occ.ohio.gov. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. UNITED NATIONS (AP) Sexual violence in conflicts worldwide increased by 25% last year, with the highest number of cases in the Central African Republic, Congo, Haiti, Somalia and South Sudan, according to a U.N. report released Thursday. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres annual report said more than 4,600 people survived sexual violence in 2024, with armed groups carrying out the majority of the abuse but some by government forces. He stressed that the U.N.-verified figures dont reflect the global scale and prevalence of these crimes. The reports blacklist names 63 government and non-government parties in a dozen countries suspected of committing or being responsible for rape and other forms of sexual violence in conflict, including Hamas militants, whose attack in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, sparked the war in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over 70% of those listed have appeared on the reports blacklist annex for five years or more without creating steps to prevent the violence, the U.N. chief said. U.N. warns Israel and Russia about allegations For the first time, the report includes two parties that have been notified the U.N. has credible information that could put them on next years blacklist if they don't take preventive actions: Israels military and security forces over allegations of sexual abuse of Palestinians primarily in prisons and detention, and Russian forces and affiliated armed groups against Ukrainian prisoners of war. Israeli U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon, who circulated a letter Tuesday from Guterres about the countrys forces being put on notice, said the allegations are steeped in biased publications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages, he said. Russias U.N. mission said it had no comment on the secretary-generals warning. The 34-page report said conflict-related sexual violence refers to rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, forced abortion, forced sterilization, forced marriage and other forms of sexual violence. The majority of victims are women and girls. In 2024, proliferating and escalating conflicts were marked by widespread conflict-related sexual violence, amid record levels of displacement and increased militarization, Guterres said. Sexual violence continued to be used as a tactic of war, torture, terrorism and political repression, while multiple and overlapping political, security and humanitarian crises deepened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The toll of sexual violence in conflict The U.N. says women and girls were attacked in their homes, on roads and while trying to earn a living, with victims ranging in age from 1 to 75. Reports of summary executions of victims after rape persisted in Congo and Myanmar, it said. In an increasing number of places, the report said armed groups used sexual violence as a tactic to gain and consolidate control over territory and lucrative natural resources. Women and girls perceived to be associated with rival armed groups were targeted with sexual violence in the Central African Republic, Congo and Haiti, it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In detention facilities, the report said sexual violence was perpetrated including as a form of torture, reportedly in Israel and the Palestinian territories, Libya, Myanmar, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine and Yemen. Most of the reported incidents against men and boys occurred in detention, consistent with previous years, and included rape, threats of rape and the electrocution and beating of genitals, the report said. U.N. report details where abuse is occurring The U.N. peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic documented cases of rape, gang rape, forced marriage and sexual slavery affecting 215 women, 191 girls and seven men. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In mineral-rich eastern Congo, the peacekeeping mission documented nearly 800 cases last year, including rape, gang rape, sexual slavery and forced marriage, often accompanied by extreme physical violence, the report said. The number of cases involving the M23 rebel group, now controlling the main city Goma, rose from 43 in 2022 to 152 in 2024, it said. In Sudan, where civil war is raging, the report said that groups providing services to victims of sexual violence recorded 221 rape cases against 147 girls and 74 boys since the beginning of 2024, with 16% of survivors under five years of age, including four one-year-olds. ___ Healthcare providers in the war-torn eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) treated more than 17,000 victims of sexual violence over just five months last year, according to a United Nations report. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterress annual report on conflict-related sexual violence, released on Thursday, said the cases were registered in the province of North Kivu between January and May last year, as fighting between Congolese forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels intensified. Many survivors sought care after violent sexual attacks, including penetration with objects, perpetrated by multiple perpetrators, said the report, which charted crimes like rape, gang rape and sexual slavery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The conflict, which has killed thousands this year alone and displaced millions, is still ongoing despite a Qatar-mediated agreement between DRC and M23 last month that was supposed to pave the way to a ceasefire, running parallel to United States efforts to broker peace between Kinshasa and Kigali. Last years figure marked a continued surge in sexual violence as the Rwanda-backed M23 rampaged through the east, with a total of 22,000 cases registered throughout 2023. That figure was more than double the previous years tally. In 2023, the spike in violence occurred as the conflict spilled over from North Kivu into South Kivu, forcing UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO to withdraw from the latter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report said that MONUSCOs operations narrowed, owing to military operations and widespread insecurity. The mission had documented 823 cases of sexual violence in 2024, affecting 416 women, 391 girls, seven boys and nine men. The UN said that 198 of last years cases were perpetrated by DRC state actors, including the army. It found that M23 elements, which continued to receive instructions and support from the Rwanda Defence Force, were implicated in 152 cases. According to the report, survivors reported that they were exposed to the threat of sexual violence while searching for food in the fields and areas around displacement sites. Many displaced women had resorted to prostitution to survive, highlighting the nexus between food insecurity and sexual violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denis Mukwege, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2018 for his work combating sexual violence in DRC, told The Times newspaper this year: When you have people raping with complete immunity and think they can go on and on without any consequence, nothing will change. Guterress report charted violations in 21 countries, with the highest numbers recorded in DRC, the Central African Republic, Haiti, Somalia and South Sudan. While women and girls made up 92 percent of victims, men and boys were also targeted. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A Sioux Falls man accused of kidnapping a 13-year-old made his first court appearance today at the Lake County Courthouse. 31-year-old Hermon Jermia is accused of taking the child to Sioux Falls in late June. Court documents say it was for the purpose of enticement or rape. Hermon Jermia Jermia was indicted by a grand jury, so authorities arent releasing many details on the case, including how he met the alleged victim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jermia is also charged in Minnehaha County with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. That case involves the same juvenile. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (WHTM) Gov. Josh Shapiro took his budget proposals for farmers to Penn States main campus today. This week, the school is marking Ag Progress Days, the states largest outdoor agriculture expo. Shapiro used the event to discuss the importance of farming in Pennsylvania, which supports nearly 600,000 jobs. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now This Week in Pennsylvania He also pitched provisions in his budget proposal for $23 million to double the funding for new farming technologies. Shapiro said that due to President Donald Trumps tariffs, Pennsylvania farmers need all the help they can get. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We saw how devastating those tariffs were to the hardwoods industry here in Pennsylvania the last go round, Shapiro said. You remember what happened back in 2018. The hardwoods industry lost $1,000,000,000 in sales as a result of those tariffs, and Pennsylvania was especially hard hit. Pennsylvania Republicans pass own version of budget The state budget is nearly seven weeks overdue. Republicans in the Senate and Democrats in the House each passed their competing versions of a funding plan. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEED TO KNOW Patricia Holt, 57, is charged with murder after allegedly shooting her boss in the head on July 24 in Texas In 1986, she was arrested after arriving at Red Hook High School with a loaded gun following a threat to kill her teacher and served five years of probation Her bail is set at $1,000,000. She has not yet entered a plea and does not have a lawyer A Texas woman accused of murdering her boss was previously convicted for an incident involving a gun and an authority figure. Deputies with the Dallas Sheriff's Office arrested Patricia Ruth Holt, 57, after she allegedly shot Carl Donaldson, 47, in the head, according to a copy of the affidavit for arrest warrant obtained by PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carl worked as the safety manager at Sun Transportation Systems, where Holt had been employed as a tractor-trailer driver for a little over a month. This is not the first time Holt has found herself facing criminal charges, having previously pled guilty to attempted assault in the first degree. This came after she brought a loaded shotgun to her high school in 1986 following threats to kill her teacher, according to New York state court filings. Dispatchers in Texas got a call from the wife of the shooting victim, Tonya Donaldson, at approximately 5:35 p.m. on July 24, 2025. Tonya "stated that her husband had been shot in the head but was still breathing," the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputy Sanchez wrote in the affidavit that he and another deputy arrived on the scene at 5:46 p.m.to find Holt leaving the lot where the shooting occurred in a white tractor-trailer truck. Holt managed to make her way out of the lot despite attempts to stop her, at which point deputies said they put down spike strips which punctured the back tires of the tractor-trailer truck. Holt continued to drive the disabled vehicle but only made it 1,000 feet before being forced to come to a stop, according to the affidavit. At that point, Holt refused to exit the vehicle, saying her plan was to kill herself or attempt suicide by cop, the affidavit said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The suspect said that they have been fing with her for too long and she has been waiting for two years to get paid for a job," Dep. Sanchez wrote in the affidavit. A hostage negotiator eventually managed to get Holt to surrender at 7:08 p.m., a little over an hour after Carl was declared dead on the scene at 6:06 p.m. The Daily Freeman first reported on Holt's previous arrest back in September 1986. She attended Red Hook High School at the time, and after being dismissed from class for being disruptive, she was sent home and returned with a 12-gauge loaded shotgun. The teacher was not in school when she returned and faculty members were able to tackle and disarm Holt when she next went to the lounge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She was given five years probation. Holt remains in jail after a judge set her bail at $1,000,000. She has not entered a plea and does not have an attorney at this time. Read the original article on People (FOX40.COM) Sheriff KP Falco made its first arrest, tracking down an armed robbery suspect last Friday, the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office said. Video Above: K9 SOS Dog Training Sheriffs North Patrol Deputies arrived at the scene after a 21-year-old female reported she had been robbed at gunpoint near Elkhorn Boulevard and Thomas Drive, the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office said. Person of interest arrested for possible homicide in Nevada County death investigation Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies set up a perimeter and initiated a search after learning that the suspect fled on foot, according to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. Sheriff K9 Falco located the suspect who was found hiding in a nearby backyard. Deputies took the suspect into custody and booked him into the Sacramento County Main Jail, according to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. The suspect was later identified as a 29-year-old gang member and remains in the county jail on $1 million bail. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court on August 22, according to the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office. This was Sheriff K9 Falco first apprehension after completing field training and becoming fully certified with PSOT on Aug. 1. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. Editors Note: This story has been updated with new information from the sheriffs office about additional charges against the suspect. WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) A Mount Carmel man traveled to Washington County, Virginia, to meet a juvenile to take them to Tennessee for sexual acts, police reported Thursday. According to a news release from the Washington County, Virginia Sheriffs Office, Richard M. Holtzclaw, 51, was arrested after an online child exploitation investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Holtzclaw was reportedly arrested when he traveled to Washington County, Virginia to meet a juvenile, the sheriffs office stated. He was also reportedly wanted out of Hawkins County. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Crime Watch In total, Holtzclaw was charged with the following: Taking Indecent Liberties with Children 40 counts Attempted Abduction and Kidnapping 1 count Possession, Reproduction, Distribution, Solicitation, and Facilitation of Child Pornography 2 counts Use of Communications Systems to Facilitate Certain Offenses Involving Children 1 count Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance 1 count Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Thursday, Holtzclaw is being held without bond at the Southwest Virginia Regional Jail. Detectives are continuing to investigate items seized from his possession that may contain child pornography, the sheriffs office said in the release. On Friday, the sheriffs office provided an update stating that Holtzclaw had been charged with 50 counts of possession of child pornography. Sheriff Blake Andis encouraged parents and guardians to be vigilant about their childrens online activity. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has dismissed speculation that Cairos recently expanded $35 billion natural gas agreement with Israels Leviathan field will influence its stance on the Gaza conflict. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, August 13, he stressed the deal is merely an extension of a 2019 agreement and has never altered Egypts consistent opposition to any attempts to eliminate the Palestinian cause or forcibly displace our Palestinian brothers. Madbouly said Egypts position has remained firm throughout the war in Gaza, noting that without Cairos stance, displacement and liquidation plans might have advanced. He described the gas agreement as part of Egypts long-term strategy to remain a regional energy hub, emphasizing that such economic arrangements will not sway its political principles or advocacy for Palestinian rights. Aug. 13Spokane County Sheriff's Sgt. Kenneth Salas' service to the community didn't stop when he took off his uniform at the end of his shift. The 59-year-old deputy who was struck and killed by a motorcyclist over the weekend while helping clear a large hay bale from Interstate 90 always lent a hand to others while on and off duty, according to Sheriff John Nowels. "Ken was probably the most mild-mannered, even-tempered person you could ever hope to meet," Nowels told reporters at a news conference Wednesday about Salas. "He did what he did without a lot of fanfare." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nowels, who worked alongside and supervised Salas the past 28 years, said, for example, Salas' neighbor called him her "security blanket." The neighbor had lost her husband, but she always knew she was safe in her home with Salas in the neighborhood. "That was a great comfort to her, to know that Ken was there next door," Nowels said. "And whenever she needed anything, Ken was there." Nowels said multiple people inside and outside the sheriff's office have shared what Salas meant to them since Salas' death Saturday. In uniform, Salas served 34 years with the sheriff's office and more than 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and Washington Air National Guard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Service is what Ken was," Nowels said. On Saturday morning, a hay bale fell off a trailer and landed in the left lane of I-90 near the Four Lakes exit, according to the Washington State Patrol. Salas noticed the road hazard and used his patrol car to block the lane, and he and the driver hauling hay got out of their vehicles to remove the bale from the interstate. A motorcyclist struck the patrol car and Salas, sending the sergeant and the motorcyclist to the hospital, WSP said. Salas died at the hospital, and the motorcyclist was in serious but stable condition Saturday. Salas is the first Spokane County Sheriff's deputy to die in the line of duty since Deputy James Slater died in a crash while responding to a call in 2003. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's moments like these where it's brought to the forefront that what we do truly is about serving other people," Nowels said. "And in Sgt. Salas' final act, he was helping somebody clear debris off of a roadway. And I promise you, law enforcement officers and firefighters and first responders do this hundreds of times a week without much thought to 'This might be where I lose my life.' " He said the sheriff's office received a tremendous outpouring of support since Salas' death. Flowers could be seen Wednesday at the base of the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Project outside the Public Safety Building in Spokane. Many deputies have been stopped on the street by members of the public who gave their condolences, according to Nowels. Law enforcement leaders from across the state also reached out to Nowels extending their empathy and support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nowels said four people even stopped him at the grocery story earlier this week saying they were sorry for his loss. "I wasn't in uniform," Nowels said. "I was just dressed in my civilian clothes going to buy stuff for dinner. That means a lot." Nowels was also moved during a procession Tuesday when first responders transported Salas' body from the Spokane County Medical Examiner's Office to a funeral home. Police officers and the general public saluted. "The number of motorists who saw something coming at them, they recognized what it was, they got out of their cars and saluted Sgt. Salas as we went by," Nowels said. "That's pretty meaningful. It's meaningful to the men and women who were there." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nowels said Salas' group of 14 deputies who worked under him during his dayshift returned to work Wednesday for the first time since the fatal crash. Nowels said they've been communicating with the deputies to make sure they're OK to return and have the resources they need. "Members of his team were some of the first on scene to provide aid to him, and as you can imagine, that's pretty tough to process," he said. Nowels said the deputies get very close to each other when working together every day. "We're expecting them to go out and do their job the way they've always done it, and do it professionally, carrying a pretty big weight on their back," Nowels said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nowels described Salas as a "servant leader" Saturday, just hours after his death, and said the deputies who worked under him loved working for him. Salas planned to retire at the end of September on his 60th birthday. "Minutes before his life was taken, you know, he was Ken, he was Sarge, he was the guy that they were getting ready to send off into retirement," Nowels said. The Sheriff's Community Oriented Policing Effort, Behind the Badge Foundation and Canopy Credit Union partnered to open a memorial fund account for Salas' family. Those who wish to donate can contact any Canopy Credit Union branch and ask to donate to the S.C.O.P.E./Sgt. Salas Memorial Fund. Checks can be dropped off at the Spokane Valley Police Department and Spokane County Sheriff's Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donations can also be made via Venmo by scanning a QR Code at this link: account.venmo.com/u/SPOKANESCOPE. The donated funds will help cover funeral expenses, and remaining funds will go to the Salas family. Salas is survived by his wife. Behind the Badge is helping with funeral arrangements. No one has been charged in the crash, and WSP is investigating. Nowels reiterated Wednesday the crash was an accident. "Sometimes accidents happen and somebody is taken from us in a way that you just can't anticipate and sometimes is impossible to prevent," he said. Nowels said incidents like these also remind deputies they're not invincible. "When public servants do swear an oath and they do put on that uniform, they remove their personality from that job," Nowels said. "They become part of something in this community that is not about the individual, it's about an organization, it's about representing a community, it's about being part of something that's far bigger than they are. And when something like this happens, it kind of tears at that identity a little bit, because it reminds us that we're not invincible, we're not immortal." An off-duty sheriff's deputy in California murdered the mother of his children before taking his own life during a standoff with police. The Santa Rosa Police Department responded just after 7 p.m. on Aug. 10, to a 911 call made by a neighbor of Mari Bonnici, a detention specialist with the Sonoma County Sheriff's Department, at an apartment complex in Santa Rosa, the department wrote on Facebook. The neighbor said that Bonnici's ex-partner, Sheriff's Deputy Jeremy Lyle, 44, had handed her an infant and instructed her to call 911 "because the child's mother was hurt," then left the area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When officers arrived at Bonnici's apartment, they forced entry and discovered the 38-year-old's lifeless body with at least one gunshot wound, the SRPD wrote. Two other children, both toddlers, were discovered unharmed in a back bedroom. About a half hour later, police learned Lyle's truck was spotted near the county coroner's office. On arrival, they found Lyle standing in the bed of the truck holding a handgun to his back. Authorities attempted to negotiate Lyle's surrender for hours to no avail. At about 2 a.m., 7 hours after authorities first received the 911 call, Lyle shot himself, police said. The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office said Lyle's death was witnessed by personnel on the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police believe the incident was related to domestic violence, but they had no previous domestic violence reports on record between Lyle and Bonnici. The couple's three children are being cared for by relatives. "We recognize the profound shock and concern that this incident brings to our community," the Sheriff's Office wrote in a statement. "Both the Sheriff's Office and the community place immense trust in those who are dedicated to serving and protecting. No level of training or experience can fully prepare us for such a tragedy." The incident is the ninth homicide and third murder-suicide in Santa Rosa this year, police said. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to speak with a trained crisis counselor 24/7, or visit 988lifeline.org. Read the original article on People SHINNSTON, W.Va. (WBOY) The rail trail in Shinnston has officially been revamped with blacktop and smooth terrain, a move that officials hope will bring more people into town. The updated trail is the result of an 11-year project to resurface it with the help of a $350,000 alternative transportation grant. It travels 18 miles from downtown Shinnston to downtown Fairmont and can be used for walking, running and biking. Senate President Randy Smith was in attendance during a ribbon-cutting for the trail Wednesday and spoke with 12 News about the growth that the city could experience because of the trail. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It gives community spirit and it gets the community working together behind a common goal and by doing that, you dont realize it, but youre creating economic development, Smith said. It makes people want to move here, it makes people want to visit here. West Virginians report seeing bright light Tuesday night, and it wasnt a meteor (WBOY Image) Over the 11 years of resurfacing, multiple local officials had a hand in working on the trail. Many of them made an appearance at the ribbon-cutting to celebrate the work that was put in for more than a decade. Shinnston Mayor Patrick Kovalck spoke with 12 News about the impact he hopes the trail has on visitors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The thing that Shinnston has best to offer is a smile and a wave from people you pass on the trail. I hope they see how friendly Shinnston is, Harrison County is, and West Virginia is as a whole. Were very friendly people, and I hope the out-of-towners can get a feel for that and appreciate what weve got here in the city, Kovalck said. In total, West Virginia has more than 60 different rail trails for locals and visitors to explore. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. A Dundee shopping centre was evacuated and an Aberdeenshire road has been closed by a mudslide after some unseasonal weather hit parts of Scotland. Shoppers were told to leave the Overgate centre after water started pouring down ramps to the front of the building at about 16:15. Large hailstones, some the size of 1 coins, fell in a 20-minute burst over the city, with some roads also flooded in the city centre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Part of Aberdeenshire were also hit by powerful hailstorms, and a section of the A97 has been closed following a mudslide. Heavy rain and hailstones forced the closure of the shopping centre [BBC] Footage posted on social media showed winter-like scenes in Aberdeenshire as hail storms left the the ground looking as if snow had fallen. Police Scotland said the A97 Dinnet to Glenbuchat road was closed in both directions between Logie Coldstone and the junction with the B9119, Tarland Road, following a mudslide. Drivers have been advised to avoid the area. The downpour in Dundee started shortly before 16:00 and caused drains to overflow, forcing the drain covers onto the road in the Nethergate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cars were seen navigating the flood water on West Marketgait, close to the city's sheriff court. Water pooled on tracks at Dundee Railway Station, but trains were unaffected. Streets in the Nethergate beside the city's V&A Museum were also affected by flooding. Dozens of federal immigration agents conducted a raid in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday near an event held by California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and other state Democrats to talk about their plan for congressional redistricting. Newsom called the appearance of U.S. Border Patrol agents sick and pathetic, accusing President Donald Trumps administration of trying to intimidate him. Right outside, at this exact moment, dozens and dozens of ICE agents, Newsom told attendees at his press conference. You think its coincidental? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its everything you know about the authoritarian tendencies of the president of the United States, he added. Wake up, America. You will not have a country if he rigs this election. The office of the California governor posted a video of the masked agents in the Little Tokyo neighborhood of Los Angeles to its social media account. WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED! the post read. BORDER PATROL HAS SHOWED UP AT OUR BIG BEAUTIFUL PRESS CONFERENCE! WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED! pic.twitter.com/Bu4gmbeY40 Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) August 14, 2025 Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass also called the appearance of the federal agents unacceptable, accusing the Trump administration of seeking to gin up trouble at the event. There is no way this was a coincidence, Bass told reporters afterward. This was widely publicized that the governor was having a press conference here to talk about redistricting. This is unbelievably disrespectful. Its a provocative act. They are talking about disorder in Los Angeles; they are the source of that disorder. There was no danger here. There was no need to detain anyone here. Related: Hunter Biden's Response To Melania Trump's Apology Demand Rhymes With 'Duck Fat' The federal officials detained one person outside the event. The move comes amid an immigration crackdown by the Trump administration in Los Angeles and other Democratic-run cities around the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), who was forcibly removed earlier this year from a news conference held by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in Los Angeles, criticized Thursdays appearance of federal agents. Trump, its all about spectacle, Padilla said. Guess what? California is not going to be intimidated. More Stories Trump Administration Argues 'Too Bad, So Sad' In Court Over His Military Takeovers Gavin Newsom Says This 1 Thing 'Says Everything You Need To Know' About Trump Trump Threatens California Officials With Arrest If They Interfere With ICE Raids Read the original on HuffPost GEORGETOWN, Texas (KXAN) As teachers and staff head back to campus for another school year in Georgetown Independent School District, theyll be doing so knowing more money will be in their paychecks. Ten days before the first day of school, the school board approved raises for the entire staff. MAP: Which school districts increased teacher pay for the 2025-26 school year? Teachers with five or more years of experience are getting $5,000, while those with three to four years are getting $2,500. Those whove been with the district for 1-2 years are getting a $1,000 raise, while first-year teachers will see the starting salary jump from $56,500 to $57,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All other district employees will receive a 2% salary increase based on the midpoint of their pay grade. Third-year Superintendent Dr. Devin Padavil said those raises are helping the district start the school year with the highest staffing levels since he started. Padavil talked with KXAN about the raises, new laws passed by the state legislature, and the districts C rating from the Texas Education Agency. This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and brevity. Tom Miller: In the most recent state accountability ratings, Georgetown ISD got a C rating. How does that sit with you? And what are you doing to improve on that? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padavil: It doesnt sit with me, because we have talented kids. We have amazing teachers in Georgetown. Ive never worked somewhere where I saw people care as deeply and who are as committed to seeing students be successful. But, we know the translation between great instruction in the classroom, and great performance on end-of-year tests, theres a little bit of a divide. So we have to close that gap through challenging tasks, responding to data in a timely manner, and making sure that our staff is getting the feedback to move students to where they need to be. I want our state ratings to reflect the incredible individuals who work in our classrooms every single day. Miller: Youve told me in the past that there wasnt enough money coming from the state. This year is different, with $8.5 billion spread out across all districts. What is Georgetown ISD going to do with that extra money? Padavil: Our board is taking action to do compensation increases for every employee in Georgetown. Its so that we can make sure were keeping up with the cost of living in Georgetown and Central Texas, and at the same time, we know the cost of living continues to increase. Everything from your car insurance to your grocery bill. So we know that the work of figuring out how to find more funds to increase compensation for staff will continue. Miller: One of the new laws coming from the state legislature has to do with cell phones and keeping them off campus. How are you going to enforce that? And where do you personally stand on that? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padavil: I think devices are too distracting for our young people in the classroom. We provide a Chromebook or a laptop or an iPad to every single student in Georgetown ISD, so the need to use your cell phone is pretty minimal, but we know what a temptation cell phones are. At the same time, I hate that this is an additional responsibility for our teachers, so our principals are working with staff to ensure we have tight expectations on making sure students arent using devices in the classroom. Parents can help us out by, if your kid has a device, put screen time limits on it, close them down during the school day, or just tell your kid to keep their device at home. Miller: Another law has to do with the Ten Commandments and requiring them in classrooms. Is that something that were going to see on the first day of school? Padavil: Were currently working through that interpretation to ensure that we follow the letter of the law. At the same time, theres a little bit of a difference of opinion on, do we rely on donations first, or do we mass produce these, which we dont have the funding for. We will comply with the law to make sure that the Ten Commandments, and I believe the exact dimensions have to be 16 inches by 20 inches, are in every single classroom in a timely manner. Miller: As you kick off another school year, what are your priorities going into 2025? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Padavil: The number one reason schools exist is student learning, growth and progress. So our number one priority is, how can we amp up the level of academic challenge so that student results, student learning, and what students have evidence of that they can do in school, continues to increase. My vision as superintendent is that every kid crossing the stage at graduation has the confidence to take on life after high school. You get that confidence by doing challenging things in high school, in middle school and in elementary school. Miller: What are you excited about in Georgetown ISD? Padavil: We opened a career and technical education center that we call the Future Ready Complex. At that building were expanding the career and technical education programs. These are programs that can help a student go into college and continue a four-year degree, or they can go directly into the workforce and make a good living. We want to provide both pathways for kids, and one of the ones Im most excited about is a manufacturing pathway. The manufacturing sector in Central Texas is going to rapidly expand. Its a great job opportunity for kids as they go through school. Its an incredible opportunity for families and their children. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Significant resources have been deployed amid the search effort for Grant Gardner, according to an Aug. 11 post on the Big Horn County Wyoming Sheriff's Office Facebook page about the Minnesota man who went missing while hiking in Wyoming and has not been heard from in more than two weeks. "Since our last update considerable resources and man power have been deployed in the search for Grant Gardner," Sheriff Ken Blackburn noted in the post, noting that the effort "has been very active." "To illustrate what is being done to search, the following is a partial list of assets and personnel who are currently, or have been working directly on this search," the post notes, before going on to list various resources, such as "Drones with cameras, capable of identifying colors and minute disturbances," "Drones, helicopters, and planes with FLIR capabilities," "Multiple dog tracking teams," "Horse and foot teams," "Wyoming National Guard," "Private pilots," and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minnesota Hiker Vanishes In Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains, Leaving Wife Trying To Stay Strong For Their Kids The post on Monday which was the latest update on the Facebook page described the area as "unforgiving," and noted, "The Cloud Peak Wilderness is deceptively expansive, remote, and snow is starting to fall at higher elevations above 10,000 feet. Very thorough searches of these areas have been performed. Mr. Gardner could plausibly be in several areas and routes, all of which have been extensively searched." Fox News Digital reached out to the sheriff's office to request comment on Thursday. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Missing American Hiker Found Dead In Remote Mountains Over A Month After Disappearing: Reports The last contact from Gardner was more than two weeks ago, on July 29, when he informed his wife that he had reached the summit of Cloud Peak, according to an Aug. 4 Facebook post from the sheriff's office. "On August 1, 2025 the Big Horn County Sheriffs Office received information regarding an over due hiker in the Cloud Peak Wilderness area, and immediately began a search and rescue operation," the post noted. "Grant Gardner of Minnesota had planned on an approximate three day hike through the Misty Moon Lake area, eventually summiting Cloud Peak, and returning to his vehicle completing his journey. Gardner made contact with his wife on the evening of July 29, 2025 letting her know hed made it to the summit. Since that time there has not been any contact with Gardner," the post stated. "A text sent to his wife at the summit indicated the climb was more taxing than he expected and he was tired." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hikers Rescued By Helicopter From Remote Beach After Rising Tides Cut Off Their Only Way Out Gardner and his wife Lauren have two children, according to Cowboy State Daily. "He solo hikes, and hes been hiking for over a decade," she told the outlet. "Hes used to this stuff, and hes very detail-oriented." A GoFundMe fundraiser to benefit the family has raised more than $34,000 so far. Original article source: Significant resources deployed in Wyoming hunt for hiker who disappeared in 'unforgiving' Bighorn Mountains SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) Sioux Falls City Council chair Rich Merkouris told his fellow councilors and the public Tuesday night that homelessness was his motivation to serve on the council. This is why I ran for city council, was the issue of homelessness, Merkouris said Tuesday during the council meeting. Applesauce, pickles on the menu at food rescue event Wednesday in an interview with KELOLAND News, he reiterated that impulse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is a major reason why I wanted to participate is to make sure that when were making decisions for our community, were considering those who oftentimes get forgotten, Merkouris said. Democratic state lawmaker Kadyn Wittman of Sioux Falls, who serves as minority whip in South Dakotas House of Representatives, has similar convictions. Wittman has worked at the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House, one of Sioux Falls two shelters for people experiencing homelessness, and she was among the people who spoke out against the proposed ordinance when it was up for its first reading at the city councils Aug. 6 meeting. My goal was to show up at city council, clearly state my opposition to it and then follow up with what I think could be some guardrails that would be appropriate to incorporate in the ordinance, Wittman said Wednesday. The morning after that Aug. 6 meeting, Wittman emailed city councilors a list of possible amendments. And now, her input is reflected in the changes unanimously approved Tuesday night when the proposed ordinance was up for its second reading. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We had a lot of feedback from various people in the community, Representative Wittman, and then I spoke specifically with Des Moines and Spokane who had similar ordinances that they brought forward at times and learned a lot from them and then that brought some language of what I thought was appropriate for our ordinance, Merkouris said. Were hearing passionate people on both sides, and I think its just striking that correct balance that we want to have clean, safe parks, city councilor Jennifer Sigette said Wednesday. We also want to take care of anybody who is experiencing homelessness. The amendments would require the city to try to connect a would-be violator with an organization that helps people battling homelessness. Another amendment would require at least a 24-hour delay before the city could remove a temporary dwelling. Finally, a third amendment would require the temporary storage of personal items taken from a removed encampment or tent. These amendments were really important because it codified process and system for how we enforce it, Merkouris said. I was really nervous about just putting out a law and what could be done with it in the future. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While I struggled with this ordinance from the beginning, the version that we have seen come forward with the amendments is one I believe our law enforcement can appropriately and responsibly use as a tool, Wittman said. The city council still has to approve the amended proposal at a third reading; this is scheduled for Tuesday, 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 KELOLAND.com. Ukrainian forces appear to have interrupted an advance by Russian troops in the eastern front, with the General Staff saying on Thursday that the difficult situation near Dobropillia and Pokrovsk was "stabilizing." The 1st Azov Corps of the National Guard and neighbouring and subordinate units had inflicted considerable losses on the enemy, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency quoted General Staff spokesman Andriy Kovalev as saying. Several prisoners were taken in the course of the operation, he said, adding: "The situation is stabilizing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to military analysts, Russian units had advanced more than 10 kilometres north-east of the city of Pokrovsk in the direction of Dobropillia, sparking media reports of a potential breakthrough in the Donetsk region. In response, the Ukraine deployed reserves to the area, including Azov units, which have extensive front-line experience, as forces in Pokrovsk faced the threat of imminent encirclement. Ukraine has been defending itself against a full-scale Russian invasion for more than three years. In February 2024, units of the Azov 3rd Separate Assault Brigade were deployed to the city of Avdiivka to prevent a Russian conquest of the industrial hub, but the city fell a few days later. The Ukrainian General Staff has said that the situation on the Pokrovsk front, where a group of Russian troops recently broke through near the town of Dobropillia, is stabilising. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, information as of 16:00 on 14 August Details: The General Staff reported that 37 Russian attacks had taken place on the Pokrovsk front since the start of the day. Quote: "While holding back the enemys pressure, Ukrainian defenders have already repelled 34 attacks, and fighting continues. The situation on the front is stabilising. The defence forces are taking all necessary measures to detect and eliminate groups of Russian troops that penetrated the rear areas of our defence the day before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thus, yesterday, servicemen from one of our mechanised brigades captured five invaders." Background: DeepState analysts reported on 11 August that Russian forces had intensified their advance near Dobropillia in recent days, in particular attempting to gain a foothold near the DobropilliaKramatorsk road. The analysts highlighted this advance on their interactive map of hostilities in Ukraine, marking it with two wedges near Dobropillia. The Ukrainian General Staff stated that the defence forces are taking effective measures to halt the Russian advance on the Dobropillia and Pokrovsk fronts. The First Corps Azov of the National Guard announced that it had taken up its designated defensive line on the Pokrovsk front. Ukrainska Pravda sources noted that this refers to a section towards Dobropillia and the DobropilliaKramatorsk road. Following this statement, the First Corps Azov reported that Russia was suffering significant losses. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Mauritanias Minister of Fisheries, Maritime and Port Infrastructure, El Vadil Ould Sidaty Ould Ahmed Louly, has announced that fish exports in 2024 generated 41 billion new ouguiyas (410 billion old ouguiyas), with over one million tons exported. Speaking at a Government press conference this week, the minister said the countrys 20202024 maritime fisheries strategy enabled significant achievements, including a total catch of 1.5 million tons and improved financial performance. The minister highlighted the sectors social impact, noting that it employs more than 300,000 Mauritanians, contributes to food security, and distributes 55 tons of fish free to the population. He also cited the creation of a strategic stock, investment in aquatic and maritime infrastructure, and strengthened governance as key accomplishments under the strategy. SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) Six people, including a minor, were detained after an Oakland home was raided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Tuesday, according to attorney Nikolas De Bremaeker. ICE agents raided a home in the area of 79th Avenue and Hillside Street in East Oakland. De Bremaeker, an immigrants rights managing attorney for Centro Legal de la Raza, is working the case on behalf of the detainees. According to the attorney, the minor detained is 17 years old, and another detainee is described as one with a severe disability. ICE agents knocked on the door of the Oakland home, and someone answered the door, De Bremaeker said. The agents entered and arrested the people living at the house. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Newsom trolls President Trump by mimicking his all-caps style No child should ever be in a detention facility, and there are laws protecting children against that, Bremaeker told KRON4 outside of the San Francisco ICE Field Office on Sansome Street. Bremaeker said the detained teenager is afraid, adding he was taken to a hotel to sleep. According to the attorney, the conditions at this ICE facility are abominable. He says the facility has no beds, and detainees are forced to sleep on the floor with only a piece of plastic as a blanket. Hes very afraid. Since yesterday afternoon, has hasnt spoken to any loved one, Bremaeker added. Regardless of the circumstances of the arrest, people still have due process, protections. Children should not be, under any circumstance, detained in a facility like this thats for adults much less a facility that isnt really meant to hold anybody for over a few hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement De Bremaeker said it is unclear whether any of the detainees have been charged with a crime. Tuesdays ICE raid in Oakland is the first one that his organization is aware of in the city. KRON4 contacted ICE for comment about the incident. We did not hear back in time for publication. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A Salt Lake City woman is accused of repeatedly crashing into another womans vehicle during a road rage incident. The victim had honked at the suspect for nearly hitting her in a roundabout, documents say. Karolyn Diana Kimsey, 41, has been charged with two counts of aggravated assault, one count of reckless endangerment, and two counts of failing to remain at an accident involving property damage, all with a road rage enhancement. She is also facing misdemeanors for driving on a suspended license. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, on June 25, 2025, a Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) officer was contacted about a collision. When the officer arrived, he saw a vehicle with front and rear end damage. The driver of the vehicle told the officer that she and her son were travelling in the vehicle and were involved in two crashes with the same vehicle. The first collision occurred in a roundabout near Glenrose Drive. Missing 72-year-old woman found dead in Salt Lake City While driving through the roundabout, a vehicle nearly hit her car, the victim reported. She honked at the vehicle and continued driving, but said that the suspect later identified as Kimsey then pulled behind her and began rear-ending her repeatedly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After turning onto California Avenue, Kimsey tried to flee and drive away from the victim. The victim stated that she began following Kimsey in an attempt to get a picture of her license plate. Allegedly, when Kimsey noticed, she braked suddenly, causing the victim to crash into her rear bumper. After the second collision, Kimsey was reportedly able to get away from the victim. The victim provided the license plate number to police, who found that she had a suspended license and was an alcohol restricted driver. The SLCPD officer showed the victim a photo of Kimsey, and she confirmed that she was the aggressive driver. SLCPD went to Kimseys residence to impound the vehicle, which is a policy requiring impoundment for hit-and-run road rage incidents, according to documents. When they knocked on the residences door, they heard a woman yell, My moms not home, while closing all doors and windows. When the tow truck arrived, the woman opened the window, and police identified her as Kimsey. She allegedly banged on the window and made obscene gestures toward officers and the tow truck driver, but refused to speak with police. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kimsey was arrested and booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on Aug. 12 for violating her probation conditions by allegedly committing a crime. She is also being held on a no-bail warrant for this road rage incident. 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. WALHALLA, S.C. (WSPA) The Walhalla Rescue Squad confirmed with 7NEWS Thursday morning that the agency is under investigation by the SC Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The rescue squad released the following statement: Walhalla Rescue Squad confirms that the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is conducting an investigation related to our organization. We want to be clear no current member, officer, or volunteer of the Walhalla Rescue Squad is accused of, or suspected of, any wrongdoing. Our current membership is committed to integrity and is cooperating fully to assist law enforcement in their work. Our mission to serve the citizens of Oconee County continues without interruption, and we remain dedicated to transparency and public trust. Brady Land, Rescue Chief SLED shared with 7NEWS that agents are actively investigating former Chief William Tatum for allegations of misappropriation of funds. Investigators said no further information will be released at this time, as the investigation is still in its early stages. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. (FOX40.COM) A car was impounded after the driver was found to be traveling at 100 mph in a 45 zone, according to the West Sacramento Police Department. Video Above: Which states have the worst drivers? On Wednesday, WSPD pulled over a driver who was allegedly speeding near Jefferson Boulevard and Alameda Street. For everyones safety, police said the vehicle was impounded on the spot. The West Sacramento Police Department seized a vehicle after the driver allegedly drove 100 mph in a 45 zone on Aug. 13, 2025./WSPD California officers seize hundreds of lobsters in massive poaching bust Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Slow down!, WSPD said. Speeding isnt just illegal it puts you, other drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists at serious risk. Please observe posted speed limits, pay attention to your surroundings, and help keep our streets safe for everyone. Police added, Lets all do our part to prevent tragedies before they happen. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. In a recent New York Times op-ed, former Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan praises Zohran Mamdanis primary campaign for New York City mayor, attributing his success to his focus on small businesses. Khan believes that Democrats can be the political party that reclaims the trust of small businesses in the years to come by modeling this example and adopting her Big is Bad antitrust philosophy. However, one crucial element is missing from her argument: the truth. During her tenure, American small businesses suffered from overregulation that hampered investment, growth and innovation. A closer examination of the Khan era reveals it is not as favorable as she portrays. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the early months of President Trumps second term, many of the rules championed under Khan were reversed, reflecting the long-held understanding that overregulation disproportionately harms small businesses a burdensome reality that got worse during the Biden administration. For example, take the noncompetes ban that Khan touts in her op-ed as an example of her purported success. Since its introduction, the rule has faced several legal setbacks. Last August, a federal judge blocked the noncompetes ban, finding that the FTC lacked the statutory authority to issue it, labeling it arbitrary and capricious. In March, the FTC, under Chair Andrew Ferguson, asked the courts to pause all appeals while it reconsidered defending the rule. It appears likely that the agency will withdraw the rule, and it has a good reason for doing so. Small businesses use non-competes for a range of appropriate business purposes, such as to protect their intellectual property and guard sensitive company information. An outright ban on these agreements would disproportionately affect small businesses and startups. Under Khan, outdated statutes like the Robinson-Patman Act were invoked despite long-standing consensus that the policy stifles innovation and raises entry barriers, ultimately harming small businesses trying to compete in the marketplace. For example, the FTC invoked this policy in its lawsuit against Southern Glazer, which could reduce wholesale discounting overall and raise costs for all retailers, leading to higher consumer prices. The FTCs changes to the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) premerger notification rules introduced in October 2024 also impose significant new disclosure requirements on businesses seeking to merge, which stifle the efforts of startups to scale and compete. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another egregious disregard for small businesses was the updated merger guidelines introduced under the FTC and DOJ Antitrust Division in 2023. The guidelines significantly lowered the threshold for mergers to be considered potentially harmful, undermining opportunities for innovative startups and small businesses to be acquired, a key goal for many entrepreneurs. Ultimately, it is U.S. small businesses that bear the weight of unnecessary or poorly crafted regulations, and when startups and small businesses are undermined, the entire U.S. economy suffers. This is the legacy that Khan advocates continuing - even intensifying - despite the consequences for American small businesses and their growth opportunities. Her endorsement of Mamdani underscores this point. The radical New York candidate has proposed raising New York City corporate taxes to ~11.5% from ~7% and adding a 2% surtax on personal incomes over $1 million to fund social programs. As public policy analyst Dr. Michael Busler, Ph.D., points out, this would effectively erode the citys tax base and economic vitality, harming local businesses that rely on consumer spending. Additionally, his proposal for municipally operated grocery stores that would sell basic goods at low cost by eliminating rent or profit margins would put bodegas and independent grocers out of business. His support for a $30/hour minimum wage would lead to employment losses and a relocation of businesses to lower-cost areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lawmakers need to think carefully about whether this is the legacy they want to perpetuate. The FTC is finally free of Lina Khan which means startups and small businesses are more free - and our economy cannot afford her policy ideology, especially when her perspective on supporting small businesses is so uninformed and misguided. Policymakers on both sides of the aisle should steer clear of Khan and Mamdani, their unworkable economic policies, and their new vision that abandons decades of sound U.S. competition law. Karen Kerrigan is president & CEO of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. SMITH COUNTY, Texas (KETK) The Smith County Historical Commission has partnered with the GIS Department to create a new interactive historical atlas. Henderson County woman sentenced to 15 years for meth offenses The web-based application is modeled after the Texas Atlas and displays 73 historic subject markers, 20 recorded Texas historical landmarks and 115 City of Tyler landmarks. The atlas also provides interactive historic transportation routes and overlays, along with more than 200 cemeteries that may not be documented in the state system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Smith County Historical Atlas is a significant step forward in preserving and promoting the stories and structures that define East Texas, Smith County Historical Commission Chairman Herterich said. City of Tylers $219.3 million budget focuses on public safety, water utilities The atlas is the first project completed by the Smith County Historical Commission, which was established in 2025 and it will assist them in their mission to identify and preserve Smith County history. Anyone who wants to receive more information about the atlas can contact the Smith County Historical Commission at smith.co.historical.commission@gmail.com You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. "The plan is the 'final nail in the coffin' for the concept of a Palestinian state," Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich remarked. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich approved the new E1 settlement plan near Maaleh Adumim, which would split east Jerusalem from the West Bank. Standing at the site of the planned settlement on Thursday, Smotrich said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump had agreed to the revival of the E1 development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those around the world who try to recognize a Palestinian state will see our response on the ground not with documents or declarations, but with facts: homes, roads, and Jewish families building their lives here, Smotrich said. They will talk about a Palestinian dream and we will continue to build a Jewish reality, he said. This reality buries the idea for good there is nothing to recognize. The Finance Minister called on Netanyahu to annex the West Bank. He also thanked the prime minister, along with Trump and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, friends of Israel like weve never had, for support for the settlement. Israel had frozen construction plans there since 2012 because of objections from the United States, European allies, and other world powers who considered the project a threat to any future peace deal with the Palestinians. An aeriel view of the Israeli city of Ma'ale Adumim, in the West Bank, taken April 2023 (credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM/THE JERUSALEM POST) The plan calls for the construction of 3,401 new housing units in Maaleh Adumim, located in the West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Peace Now previously called the plan a death blow to the two-state solution, because it calls for effectively splitting the West Bank into two parts. This would prevent the development of a metropolitan area between Ramallah, east Jerusalem, and Bethlehem. Although Smotrichs announcement was made public, there has been no official confirmation regarding the approval of the plan by print time. The Israeli publication noted that previous housing projects, which were heavily promoted at launch, have been delayed for years. Smotrich calls plan 'final nail in the coffin' for Palestinian statehood However, Smotrich stated that this plan would move forward, since it is the final nail in the coffin for the concept of a Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the Palestinian perspective and that of the international community, this is a critical area. Without it, the establishment of a Palestinian state with east Jerusalem as its capital is simply impossible, he added. Smotrich continued, saying that the plan had begun with the foundation of the current government. The approval of construction in the E1 area undermines the idea of a Palestinian state and is part of the broader steps we are taking as part of our de facto sovereignty plan, which began with the formation of this government. After decades of international pressure and freezing of projects, we are defying conventions and cementing the connection between Maaleh Adumim and Jerusalem, he said. While the plan has yet to receive formal approval, it has been met with enthusiasm in the Binyamin and Maaleh Adumim area. Israel Ganz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council, hailed it as a historic achievement for the settlement movement, laying the groundwork for the eventual implementation of sovereignty. Maaleh Adumim Mayor Guy Yifrach also expressed his strong support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Palestinians have tried to undermine this area through illegal construction, but the creation of this new neighborhood will thwart their efforts, he said. The Palestinian government, allies, and campaign groups condemned the scheme, calling it illegal and saying the fragmentation of territory would rip up any internationally backed peace plans for the region. A spokesperson for the US State Department said the US remained focused on ending the war in Gaza and ensuring Hamas would never govern that territory again. A stable West Bank keeps Israel secure and is in line with this administrations goal to achieve peace in the region, the spokesperson added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A UN spokesperson called on Israel to reverse the decision, which they said would put an end to the prospects of a two-state solution. They added that settlements go against international law. The Qatari Foreign Affairs Ministry called it a blatant violation of international legitimacy, and strongly condemned the decision. It further rejected the Israeli occupations policies aimed at expanding settlements and forcibly displacing the Palestinian people, measures intended to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state. It urged the international community to compel Israel to halt settlement expansion. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said on Thursday that an Israeli settlement plan is not in line with international law, and she called on Israeli authorities not to move ahead with it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The decision of Israeli authorities to advance the E1 settlement plan further undermines the two-state solution while being a breach of international law," Kallas said in a statement. "The EU reiterates its call on Israel to halt settlement construction," she added. Turkey condemned Israel's settlement plan aimed at dividing the West Bank and cutting it off from East Jerusalem, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Thursday, adding the decision was a total violation of international law. "This step... totally disregards international law and United Nations resolutions; targets the State of Palestine's territorial integrity, the basis for a two-state solution, and hopes for peace," it said in a statement, reiterating that the establishment of an independent Palestinian state was the only way to achieve lasting peace. Sarah Ben-Nun contributed to this report. The Brief It is snake season here in Texas! With land development accelerating in Hays County, snakes are popping up An expert provided tips to avoid snakes HAYS COUNTY, Texas - It is snake season in Texas. In Hays County, as land development accelerates, snakes are popping up after being displaced from their original habitats. Hays County is developing rapidly. New subdivisions, roads, and commercial spaces are replacing brushland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When there are developments or disturbances to a habitat, you will see all the ecology start to show up a little bit more obviously," Urban Jungle Wildlife Removal Wildlife Biologist Marshall Fish said. That includes snakes. This weather is what they prefer. "The warmer temperatures help them, they're able to regulate their body temperature more, with them being cold-blooded. They prefer to be active during warmer months when they have access to that energy so that they can maintain homeostasis," Fish said. Why you should care Fish said it is important to learn how to recognize venomous snakes, which are copperheads, cottonmouths, coral snakes, and rattlesnakes. Some common indicators are a triangular-shaped head, a black snout, narrow pupils, or a rattle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fish said that technically you can find snakes anywhere. "Any place where a snake feels like it's covered, like it has shelter, and also where there's a food source close by, that's primarily where we'll be finding larger snakes," Fish said. If you want to try not to run into a snake, keep your grass trimmed and clear of clutter like piles of debris, wood, or scrap materials. If you do come across one, stay calm and back away slowly. If you do happen to get bitten by a snake, venomous or not, seek medical attention. The Source Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin's Meredith Aldis DE PERE, Wis. (WFRV) Another academic year is quickly approaching, and St. Norbert College welcomed community members to have a taste of St. Norbert at their dining hall to see what the students will be eating. It really shows that when students come to this campus as a full time student, it is more then just the experience of being in class, when they are moving away from home and living on campus, we want to be able to take care of them in so many other ways, and straight to a teenagers stomach is the food that is on campus, St. Norbert College Director of Admissions Eric Wagner says. Former Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy taking new role with University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Athletics Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, the college has seen enrollment decrease, leading to some programs being cut, and students being left with minimal choices of majors and minors to pursue degrees in. I think that its a two-fold affect, I mean all colleges are feeling this, especially in the enrollment cliff, the last few years, and also to be able to show that this is a gorgeous campus that is right down the street in the community that is another food option, says Wagner, And also to persuade students to stick around time to see what is available here on this brand new shiny campus. According to college officials, multiple new buildings and features around the campus will help attract new students to their programs and encourage high school counselors to share the benefits they see with their students. Green Bay Gamblers to host their first-ever corgi race, registration yet to open Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its been, I think, 5 years since I toured, so that will give me an opportunity to see what majors and what buildings they have on campus, says Kaukana High School Counsellor Michelle Fucht. The food is phenomenal, so its nice to eat lunch here at the commons. One of those recent investments is the new Business building, an upgrade that hopes to bring in students of future graduating classes, to become Green Knights. There are a lot of different options for kids, and I dont think any of them are a bad option. You got apprenticeships, youve got work experience, technical schools, and youve got 4-year universities, you gotta do whats best for you as a student, says Fucht. Officials say that the official unveiling of the new business building will take place in October, serving as a venue for student classes, as well as a space for studying and networking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. A Menifee police officer has been arrested on suspicion of committing sexual assault while on duty, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. The Menifee Police Department received a complaint alleging sexual assault by one of its officers, spurring a preliminary investigation that pointed to 32-year-old Officer Juan Pesina. Pesina allegedly committed sexual assault during an on-duty investigation. There were other on-duty assaults, as well as alleged off-duty incidents, in 2023 and 2024, according to investigators. He had been an officer with the Menifee Police Department since December 2022, according to the agency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He faces charges including rape, sodomy and forced oral copulation, according to officials. After its preliminary investigation of Pesina, Menifee police notified the Sheriff's Department's special victims unit, asking it for help in conducting "an impartial and independent investigation," Police Chief Chris Karper said in a video posted by the Police Department. Authorities arrested the officer Tuesday at a courthouse in Murietta, the release said. After being made aware of the allegations, the Sheriff's Department said, officers used a search warrant to comb through his Menifee residence and his workplace and found further evidence supporting the charges. "While we are deeply disappointed in this individual's actions, they do not reflect the values, integrity or professionalism of the Menifee Police Department, its leadership or the officers who serve this community with honor everyday," Karper said. "We understand the impact that this news may have on public trust. Let me assure you, we are committed to accountability, both externally and within our own ranks." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The case is still under investigation, and authorities believe there could be more victims. Those who have any information are urged to contact the Sheriff's Department at at (951) 955-1701 or (951) 776-1099. Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain AI is detecting tumors more often and earlier in the Dutch breast cancer screening program. Those tumors can then be treated at an earlier stage. This has been demonstrated by researchers led by Radboud university medical center in a study published in The Lancet Digital Health. The use of AI could reduce workload and save millions of euros annually. Previous research in Sweden had already shown that AI detects breast cancer on mammograms more frequently than radiologists. Moreover, AI can reduce the workload for radiologists. Now, it appears that AI can also replace the second radiologist in the Dutch breast cancer screening program. This even leads to the detection of more tumorsand at an earlier stagewhich later turn out to be clinically significant. AI is more likely to be right Researchers, led by breast radiologist Ritse Mann of Radboudumc, analyzed 42,000 breast scans. These mammograms were taken as part of the Dutch screening program in the Utrecht region. Traditionally, two radiologists review these scans, as is standard practice in breast cancer screening. In this study, the researchers also evaluated the scans using AI developed by ScreenPoint Medical. Additionally, they followed the women whose scans were analyzed for nearly four and a half years, with multiple scans available for many of them. The study showed that one radiologist working with AI detects more tumors than two radiologists alone. Tumors are also identified earlier when AI is involved. "Sometimes the AI detects a tumor that the radiologists don't yet recognize as such. We call this a false positive. But often that tumor appears in a later scan after all. Therefore, the AI was right earlier," Ph.D. candidate Suzanne van Winkel explains. "By the time the radiologist raises the alarm, it often concerns larger invasive tumors, which definitely need treatment, as early as possible." Replacing the second radiologist In Sweden, AI is already being used to analyze screening mammograms. "They replace the second radiologist with AI. Only if the AI is uncertain does a second radiologist step in," Mann explains. "We see that radiologists work well with AI, which leads to more tumors being detected without a significant increase in unnecessary follow-up checks for women." The current study shows that AI is also good enough in the Dutch setting to replace the second radiologist in screening scan analysis. This could save several million euros per year. Yet AI is not currently being used in the Netherlands. "In Sweden, screening is organized regionally, while in the Netherlands it's organized nationally. That makes implementing AI more logistically challenging here," says Mann. "The IT infrastructure in the Netherlands is not yet ready. That requires funding." More information: AI detects additional clinically relevant breast cancers as an independent second reader within a population-based screening program: a retrospective study, The Lancet Digital Health (2025). WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) Thursday marks the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act. President Franklin Roosevelt signed it into law in 1935 as a way to give older Americans economic stability, but today the program faces future funding challenges. President Donald Trump issued a proclamation Thursday honoring 90 years of Social Security. The program currently benefits nearly 70 million Americans, mostly retired, with an average monthly check of $1,863. Were going to make it stronger, bigger and better, said Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president is touting his administrations efforts to improve the program claiming fewer improper payments and better customer service. He also recently signed a law that removes taxes on Social Security income for most seniors, but Democrats are slamming the administration for cuts they say hurt service. Theyre closing offices, theyre cutting staff. People cannot get help, said Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.). Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and other Democrats are calling for legislation to shore up the programs future. Its long overdue and people depend on it, said Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An annual report released in June shows Social Security may not have enough money to pay full benefits starting in 2034. Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders is calling for an end to the income cap that currently limits how much higher earners have to pay into Social Security. So that the wealthiest Americans start paying their fair share of taxes, said Sanders. The president says the program is on the right track under his leadership. We love it. We love whats happening with it. And its going to be good for 90 years and beyond, said Trump. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Oklahoma officials say a software bug is to blame for a network outage that plagued state agencies and forced some to shut down for hours. The outage affected agencies from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, and for one hour during the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 13, said Christa Helfrey, a spokesperson for the Office of Management and Enterprise Services. Helfrey said in an email the bug has since been fixed. She did not say what software was affected or how many state agencies experienced the outage, though reports of issues were widespread. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Several state agencies temporarily closed their offices to the public, delayed services or altered operations because of the outage. Service Oklahoma said the outage affected its offices, website and call center, including its driver's license services for most of the day Tuesday, as well as Wednesday morning. Officials at the Oklahoma Department of Labor and the Ethics Commission both said early Tuesday afternoon that their offices were closing for the day because of the outage. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission said the outage prevented it from posting the scheduled Wednesday meeting agenda online. Oklahoma law requires agendas to be posted at least 24 hours before public meetings. In an email, the agency noted the agenda was instead "posted prominently and publicly at the principal offices" of the Corporation Commission. Previous Coverage: Internet outage hits Oklahoma state agencies: What we know so far Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mike Sanders, the chief executive officer of the Oklahoma Broadband Office, said Tuesday afternoon that employees at his agency "had to work from home." Leslie Berger, a spokeswoman for the Oklahoma attorney general's office, said many employees were working from home because of the "connectivity issues." This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma agencies lost services for hours due to 'software bug' CHICAGO A female off-duty Chicago police officer was attacked outside a bar in Wicker Park on Sunday, allegedly by a male off-duty Chicago police officer who sources tell WGN-TV is the same officer who shot and killed his partner during a foot chase earlier this summer. WGN is not naming the male officer allegedly involved, since he has not been charged with a crime at this point. Chicago police officers involved in 2024 fatal shooting of Dexter Reed will not face charges Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to sources, the off-duty female officer was outside DSTRKT Bar & Grill in Wicker Park, in the 1500 block of North Milwaukee Avenue on the citys Northwest Side, waiting for an Uber. She alleges that she was approached by an off-duty male officer and an unknown woman, who demanded that she delete videos on her phone before a verbal argument turned physical. The off-duty female officer accuses them of beating her in her facial area and was able to escape thanks to the help of others nearby, according to sources. She reported pain to her nose and required stitches on her lip. Sources tell WGN the male off-duty officer is the same officer under investigation for shooting and killing Chicago police officer Krystal Rivera in June as they were both chasing a suspect. Officials have referred to that shooting as accidental, while Riveras family has asked for an outside investigation. According to its last update, from June 9, the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) said it will to continue to investigate the incident in which Rivera was shot and killed. CPD Officer Krystal Rivera Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its unclear what the videos on the female off-duty officers phone contained. WGN has reached out to the police union on the incident and has yet to hear back. WGN also reached out to the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA), who confirmed they are in the early stages of investigating Sundays incident in Wicker Park. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. JOHANNESBURG (AP) South African is starting a national dialogue Friday that is meant to bring all sectors of society together to discuss the countrys most pressing issues and find solutions. The talks, initiated by President Cyril Ramaphosa after calls from civil society, are expected to include most political parties, civic groups and members of the public. Concerns have been raised over a possible $40 million cost, while there are also questions about whether the dialogue will result in significant changes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Africa faces many problems more than 30 years after the end of the apartheid system of white minority rule, including high levels of poverty and inequality, crime, corruption and an unemployment rate of more than 30% one of the world's worst. The country is no stranger to national talks, including the multiparty negotiations for a peaceful end to apartheid in the early 1990s. Here's what to know about the national dialogue, which begins with a two-day convention in the capital, Pretoria. Why South Africa is holding the talks Since its first democratic election in 1994, when Nelson Mandela was elected as the countrys first Black president, South Africa made progress in de-escalating racial tensions, improving the economy and providing access to millions of its poor Black majority. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, there are concerns that the country has digressed over the last decade and calls for a soul-searching exercise grew louder after the long-governing African National Congress, or ANC, party lost its majority in the 2024 election, forcing South Africa to form a coalition government. Ramaphosa announced the dialogue in June. The national dialogue must be a place where everyone has a voice. The dialogue will be a people-led, society-wide process to reflect on the state of our country in order for us to reimagine our future," he said. The participants South Africans from all walks of life are expected to voice their views at the dialogue, with talks expected to be held in person and virtually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramaphosa has appointed an Eminent Persons Group, which is made up of religious, sports, labor and civic figures who he says reflect the great diversity of South Africa. They include South African rugby captain Siya Kolisi, award-winning Black Panther actor John Kani and former Constitutional Court Judge Edwin Cameron. Not everyone believes the talks will have a real impact. The Democratic Alliance, or DA, the second-biggest party in the coalition government, withdrew in a dispute with the ANC over the firing of one of its deputy ministers by Ramaphosa. It has also said that the talks are a waste of public money. The MK Party, the official opposition, has said that it won't participate. The dialogue will happen in phases and take the form of public discussions in all of South Africa's nine provinces. Its unclear how long the dialogue will last, but a second convention could happen early next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Criticism of the national dialogue Some high-profile foundations have pulled out of this week's opening convention, citing rushed timelines and logistical issues, but they have said they will participate in the rest of the program. The estimated cost of the dialogue has drawn criticism, although Ramaphosa's office has said that it's not as high as the numbers being put forward. If you want to have a real nationwide process, then it is going to cost a lot of money. Its not something that can be avoided, University of Pretoria political analyst Dirk Kotze said. The DA party and others have accused the ANC of trying to control the conversation and use it as a platform to campaign before local elections next year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think the message that comes through specifically for the ANC is that they should stand a little bit back and not try to control the process, Kotze said. ___ AP Africa news: https://apnews.com/hub/africa CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) The South Carolina Democratic Party is calling for Mullins McLeod to drop out of the 2026 governors race after newly released dash cam video showed him rambling and making vague threats toward law enforcement and political figures following a May incident in downtown Charleston that ultimately led to his arrest. William Mullins McLeod, 53, was arrested on May 15 after he was found yelling at the top of his lungs while walking near the Battery. He was wearing only underwear and shoes at the time, according to a report from the Charleston Police Department. The video, released Aug. 12 by local police through a Freedom of Information Act request, shows McLeod refusing to identify himself to authorities after being placed in the patrol car, referring to himself at separate times as Superman and God. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It doesnt matter, my friend, trust me. Im one of the most just humans to ever walk this soil, McLeod responds after being asked for his name. Superman sounds good, he immediately adds. McLeod does eventually identify himself using his full name and makes apparent references to his then-upcoming gubernatorial campaign as he continues to shout, at times incoherently. As the nearly hour-long footage progresses, McLeod appears visibly agitated as he goes on a profanity-ridden rant that includes both vague and explicit threats toward current and former South Carolina politicians. Among those mentioned was Republican Attorney General Alan Wilson, who announced his bid for governor earlier this summer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im gonna kick your [expletive] teeth in, McLeod says, seemingly referencing Wilson. Wilson responded in an Aug. 13 statement, saying he wanted to give [McLeod] the benefit of the doubt while also turning focus back to his own campaign. I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt and assume he means in a general election, not a street fight, Wilson said. My plan for bold, conservative leadership is spreading, and my record of defending President Trump, parental rights, and the rule of law has put a target on my back. But were not slowing down, and Im not done fighting for South Carolina families. McLeod is also heard using a racial slur at one point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A preliminary incident report obtained by News 2 stated that McLeods eyes were extremely bloodshot and highly dilated, symptoms the officer wrote were typical of an individual under the influence of a stimulant narcotic. It was not immediately clear whether McLeod was tested for any substances. The video shows McLeod refusing to exit the patrol vehicle when it arrives at the Al Cannon Detention Center, telling an officer he would sleep in the back seat. No, Im not doing it, no, McLeod shouts. Im not getting out of this car. Its time to go to bed. He is forcibly removed and booked into the jail shortly before 1 a.m., according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Charleston Police Department declined further comment on the videos release, saying only that the department was fulfilling a FOIA request. McLeod is currently facing misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct. Those charges were still pending as of Aug. 11, according to a City of Charleston spokesperson. Messages left with McLeods law office, campaign team, and on his cellphone seeking comment were not returned. The Charleston attorney characterized his arrest as unlawful in an Aug. 11 interview with the Post and Courier, telling the outlet that voters would know exactly what happened before next years election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McLeod, who ran unsuccessfully for governor as a Democrat in 2010 and served two terms as Charleston County Democratic Party chairman, is trying again for the office. He launched his campaign on Aug. 11, casting himself as a servant leader who wants to root out the cancer of corruption that he says has infiltrated state government over the past two decades. He is the first Democrat to officially enter the race to replace Republican Gov. Henry McMaster, who cannot run again due to term limits. Richland State Rep. Jermaine Johnson, who launched an exploratory committee in early June, is also considering jumping in. Christale Spain, chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, suggested in an Aug. 13 statement that McLeod re-evaluate his candidacy. After reviewing the transcript of the dash cam footage from his recent arrest, 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, the statement read, in part. We offer him compassion and pray he finds the support he needs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. Democrats are calling on Mullins McLeod to drop out of the race for South Carolina governor after an arrest video from May resurfaced of McLeod in which he goes on an expletive-filled rant and calls himself Superman. The 53-year-old South Carolina lawyer was arrested May 14 in Charleston, according to the police report obtained by HuffPost, after he was found walking around wearing only his underwear and shoes, and yelling at the top of his lungs and moving his arms frantically. Related: Hillary Clinton Spells Out Exactly How Trump Could Win The Nobel Peace Prize The officers handcuffed McLeod, and while they were trying to get McLeods name, McLeod referred to himself as Superman and God. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the arrest video published by WPDE, when asked his name, McLeod responded, It doesnt matter, my friend, trust me. Im one of the most just humans to ever walk this soil, before shouting, When Im governor ... According to the police report, while on their way to jail, McLeod continued to yell incoherently about vague historic events. The officer noted in the police report that McLeods symptoms were typical of an individual under the influence of a stimulant narcotic. The South Carolina Democratic Party did not respond to a request for comment, but in a statement shared on social media, the chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, said that McLeod should rethink running for governor. After reviewing the transcript of the dash cam footage from his recent arrest, 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, the statement reads. We offer him compassion and pray he finds the support he needs. Related: Costco Won't Dispense Abortion Pill, And Conservatives Are Celebrating In the arrest video, McLeod yelled incoherently about Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and his brothers in Compton.He also threatened Alan Wilson, the South Carolina attorney general who is also running for South Carolina governor, saying he wants to kick Wilsons teeth in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wilson wrote on social media Wednesday that he is giving McLeod the benefit of the doubt. I am going to give him the benefit of the doubt and assume he means in a general election, not a street fight, Wilson said. My plan for bold, conservative leadership is spreading, and my record of defending President Trump, parental rights, and the rule of law has put a target on my back. But were not slowing down, and Im not done fighting for South Carolina families. Related: Gavin Newsom Launches Ballot Initiative To Offset Texas Gerrymander When they arrived at the jail, McLeod didnt want to exit the car, and police reported his eyes were bloodshot and dilated, and was sweating profusely. During intake, McLeod continued to ramble and allegedly kicked another prisoner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McLeod was charged with public disorderly conduct, and the charges are still pending, police told HuffPost. McLeod did not immediately return a request for comment. On Monday, McLeod called the May arrest unlawful and told the Post and Courier that he was exercising his God-given, constitutional right to be in a public place. My path and my focus has never been clearer, he said. As far as my unlawful arrest goes, my hands are tied right now. And trust me, theres nothing that I want more than to tell the voters exactly what happened on my unlawful arrest. But right now, my hands are tied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He continued: The only thing Id ask the voters is to please give me a little bit of grace and know that long before we go to election day, theyll know exactly what happened. And when they learn what happened around my unlawful arrest, it will be a reason why I absolutely need to be our states governor. Related: Right-Wingers Want Trump To Issue More Pardons And They're Incredibly Controversial Shaun Kent, McLeods attorney, said drugs or alcohol were not involved, and that the incident instead stemmed from a mental health episode and exhaustion. According to the Post and Courier, McLeods family told Kent he hadnt slept in almost six days. In a video posted Tuesday on Instagram, McLeod didnt address the arrest. Instead, he explained why hes running for governor, saying corruption is in politics and the will of the people is not being served. Related... Read the original on HuffPost From left, Tim Ridgway, vice president of health affairs and Sanford School of Medicine dean, speaks with medical students including Tanner Smith and Tanner Berg, as well as South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden, at the Canopy by Hilton in downtown Sioux Falls on Aug. 14, 2025. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) SIOUX FALLS The University of South Dakota announced Thursday it plans to move the states only medical school from Vermillion to Sioux Falls. Starting in 2027, students will attend temporary locations provided by Sanford Health. USD President Sheila Gestring said the university plans to build a new Sioux Falls facility in seven to 10 years, costing about $150 million. She hopes most of the funding will come from donors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The medical school has been in Vermillion for 51 years. Gov. Larry Rhoden, left, and South Dakota Board of Regents President Tim Rave speak in downtown Sioux Falls on Aug. 14, 2025, before the University of South Dakotas announcement that the states only medical school will move to Sioux Falls. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) The move will increase the schools competitiveness and improve clinic and research access for beginning medical students, Gestring said. Two of South Dakotas three major health systems Sanford and Avera are based in Sioux Falls, and there is also a Veterans Affairs hospital in the city. Gov. Larry Rhoden said the move will benefit South Dakota. Students standing here with us will have more opportunities for clinical experiences, and theyll develop closer ties to our South Dakota health systems, Rhoden said, gesturing to dozens of USD medical students at the announcement. When they graduate, we should expect to see more of them stay right here in South Dakota. Vermillion leaders respond Vermillions population is just under 12,000, making it one of the smallest cities with a medical school in the nation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are 57 medical students living in Vermillion, while most other students already commute from Sioux Falls. Itll also impact 24 faculty, 15 researchers and 29 staff within the medical school, Gestring told South Dakota Searchlight. About half of the 24 faculty members commute from Sioux Falls. The university will offer others based in Vermillion relocation packages or the opportunity to switch positions within the university. Vermillion Mayor Jon Cole responded to Searchlight with a written statement. The most difficult part of this decision is its impact on the faculty and staff who have built their careers and lives here in Vermillion, he said. We recognize the universitys challenging position and understand the factors that led to this choice, but we also know that change is never easy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The loss of dozens of students and families from Vermillion will hurt, said City Council President Rich Holland, but the move could open up some needed housing. I wont say Im looking forward to it, but I understand it, Holland said in a phone interview. Its a shift that needs to be done for the benefit of the students. Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks in downtown Sioux Falls on Aug. 14, 2025, at the University of South Dakotas announcement that the states only medical school will move to Sioux Falls. (Makenzie Huber/South Dakota Searchlight) Republican South Dakota state Sen. Sydney Davis, whose district includes Vermillion, said shes heard some residents say theyre worried the town is losing the university to Sioux Falls. But she said other programs at the Vermillion campus are growing, and the move will provide better efficiencies for the programs already existing on campus. Gestring said the university doesnt have plans to wholly relocate any other programs to Sioux Falls. The university has expanded several programs to Sioux Falls to meet workforce needs, including education and nursing, and plans more expansion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The move to Sioux Falls will open up part of the Lee Medicine Building on the Vermillion campus, which houses the medical school and the School of Health Sciences. University officials plan to move some programs housed in the Akeley-Lawrence Science Center into the vacated space due to structural problems in the center. The move will allow those programs to grow in the larger space and could benefit the Vermillion community in the future, Gestring said. Be patient, Gestring said. My hope is that we will replace those 57 students with a whole lot more than 57 students. Students react Some students attending the event were supportive of the move. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fourth-year medical student Tanner Berg plans to go into anesthesiology and practice in South Dakota. He formerly lived in Vermillion and said it was difficult to find housing. Vermillion is isolated from research and clinicians, he added, and moving to Sioux Falls will improve access and students education. Earlier access to research will improve education as well, said Tim Ridgway, vice president of health affairs and Sanford School of Medicine dean. The move will allow students to learn from professionals, apply their experience right away and think more critically, he said, which will improve treatment for South Dakotans. Thats when they retain the information, Ridgway said. Thats when they become true physicians. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SEOUL, South Korea (AP) South Koreas Supreme Court rejected a 30 million won ($21,600) damage claim Thursday by an American composer who accused a South Korean kids content company of plagiarizing his version of Baby Shark, ending a six-year legal battle over the globally popular tune known for its catchy "doo doo doo doo doo doo" hook. The top court upheld lower court rulings dating back to 2021 and 2023 that found no sufficient grounds to conclude the company, Pinkfong, infringed on Jonathan Wrights copyright. Wright, also known as Johnny Only, released his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfongs, but both were based on a traditional melody popular for years at childrens summer camps in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The courts ruled Wrights version did not differ enough from the original melody to qualify as an original creative work eligible for copyright protection, and that Pinkfongs song had clear differences from Wrights. The Supreme Court said its ruling reaffirms the established legal principle on existing folk tunes as derivative work. The Supreme Court accepts the lower courts finding that the plaintiffs song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune related to the case to the extent that it could be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work, it said in a statement. Pinkfong said in a statement to The Associated Press that the ruling confirmed its version of Baby Shark was based on a traditional singalong chant that was in the public domain. The company said it gave the tune a fresh twist by adding an upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, turning it into the pop culture icon it is today. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chong Kyong-sok, Wrights South Korean attorney, said he hadnt received the full version of the courts ruling yet, but called the outcome a little disappointing. Anyway, the matter is now settled, he said. Its our work that came out first, so we can handle the licensing on our side and I guess we then each go our separate ways. Pinkfongs Baby Shark became a global phenomenon after it was released on YouTube in 2015, with the original Baby Shark Dance video now exceeding 16 billion views and peaking at No. 32 on the Billboard Hot 100. Baby Shark remains a crucial product for Pinkfong, which earned 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025, according to its regulatory filing. The company has turned the five-member shark family Baby Shark, Mama Shark, Papa Shark, Grandma Shark, and Grandpa Shark into TV and Netflix shows, movies, smartphone apps and globally touring musicals. South Koreas Supreme Court ruled today that the globally popular childrens song Baby Shark was not plagiarised, ending a six-year legal battle over an American composers copyright claim. US composer Jonathan Wright accused South Korean kids content company Pinkfong of copying elements from his own earlier version of the tune. He filed a lawsuit in Seoul in 2019 and sought 30 million won (approx. 18,500) in compensation. Wright, also known as Johnny Only, released his version in 2011, four years before Pinkfongs, but both were based on a traditional melody popular for years at childrens summer camps in the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement South Koreas top court upheld lower court rulings dating back to 2021 and 2023 that found no sufficient grounds to conclude Pinkfong infringed on Jonathan Wrights copyright. Throughout the cases prolonged run, the courts consistently ruled Wrights version did not differ enough from the original melody to qualify as an original creative work eligible for copyright protection, and that Pinkfongs song had clear differences from Wrights. The Supreme Court said its ruling reaffirms the established legal principle on existing folk tunes as derivative work. The Supreme Court accepts the lower courts finding that the plaintiffs song did not involve substantial modifications to the folk tune related to the case to the extent that it could be regarded, by common social standards, as a separate work, it said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pinkfong said in a statement to that the ruling confirmed its version of Baby Shark was based on a traditional singalong chant that was in the public domain. The company said it gave the tune a fresh twist by adding an upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, turning it into the pop culture icon it is today. Chong Kyong-sok, Wrights South Korean attorney, said he hadnt received the full version of the courts ruling yet, but called the outcome a little disappointing. Anyway, the matter is now settled, he said. Its our work that came out first, so we can handle the licensing on our side and I guess we then each go our separate ways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pinkfongs Baby Shark became a global phenomenon after it was released on YouTube in 2015. A year later, the company uploaded a second video which showed two child actors doing hand movements on the songs catchy "doo doo doo doo doo doo" hook. Baby Shark Dance became the most-viewed YouTube video of all time, now exceeding 16 billion views. The song was also featured in various cultural products, including in The Angry Birds Movie 2 and in TV series The Umbrella Academy. Baby Shark remains a crucial product for Pinkfong, which earned 45.1 billion won ($32.6 million) in revenue in the first half of 2025, according to its regulatory filing. The company has turned the five-member shark family - Baby Shark, Mama Shark, Papa Shark, Grandma Shark, and Grandpa Shark - into TV and Netflix shows, films, smartphone apps and globally touring musicals. The Brief A South Texas man was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for child sex crimes. Rogelio Pruneda III used a minor relative to solicit another minor for sex. He will also serve five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender. MCALLEN, Texas - A South Texas man has received federal prison time for a child sex abuse scheme in which he used a minor relative to find a find another minor he solicited for sex. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The convict was found to have offered the girl money and drugs in exchange for illegal sexual favors. South Texas child sex crimes Rogelio Pruneda III, 29, of Hidalgo, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison after pleading guilty to his offenses in June. He was charged with distributing videos of sexual activity to a minor. The court found that those videos were of his actions with the minor he recruited through the help of his minor relative, which he sent to the victim who he sexually abused, according to the release from U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. Prundeda was found to have engaged in similar inappropriate behavior with the relative who he used in his scheme, the court found. According to court documents, the family member victim told the minor she helped recruit that Pruneda would treat her as a "sugar daddy." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pruneda was further ordered to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim and will serve five years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Pruneda will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Dangerous and calculating What they're saying "Pruneda sought out a victim online and plied her with offers of money and other goods. This methodical plan demonstrates just how dangerous and calculating he is," said Ganjei. "The Southern District of Texas will do whatever it takes to protect the innocence of the children of our community and punishto the maximum extent the law allowsthose who take that innocence away." What's next Pruneda has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future, the release says. The Source Information in this article came from the U.S. Attorney's Office in the Southern District of Texas. 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: Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels The findings of a new brain study could change the way doctors treat mood disorders involving psychosis in patients. The brain imaging study found that changes in brain dopamine are linked to symptoms of psychosis, no matter whether a person has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. The research, published in JAMA Psychiatry by teams at Imperial College London, the University of Oxford and King's College London, suggests that the underlying biological basis of psychosis doesn't correspond to traditional diagnostic labels. The researchers used PET scanning to examine the brains of people who were experiencing their first episode of psychosis with other mood disorders involving either depressive or manic symptoms, to measure how much dopamine the brain made. Across both diagnostic groups scannedpeople experiencing mania or depressionincreased dopamine synthesis was linked to positive psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions. This suggests that antipsychotic drugs, which target the dopamine system, may be suitable to treat psychotic symptoms across diagnoses. At present, most medical treatments for psychosis (antipsychotics) target dopamine, but are often given to people with particular psychotic disorders, e.g. schizophrenia. By contrast, people with depression and psychosis tend not to receive medicines targeting dopamine, owing to less research in this group. Lead researcher Dr. Sameer Jauhar at Imperial College London's Department of Brain Sciences said, "The diagnoses used in psychiatry don't always match how psychosis works in the brain, so they may not be the best guide for choosing treatments, or predicting who may respond. Nature doesn't follow our diagnostic rules and we shouldn't expect her to." The study has implications for how common disorders involving psychosis are presently treated, with the prospect of more targeted treatments for groups in the future. The researchers scanned 76 people, 38 of whom had psychosis and mood symptoms (25 experiencing depression, 13 experiencing mania/mixed) and 38 controls experiencing no mental health symptoms. They used PET scanners to measure dopamine production in three areas of the brain; the associative, limbic and sensorimotor regions. Across all participants, higher dopamine synthesis in the associative region was linked with greater severity of psychotic symptoms, no matter what the category of diagnosis was. But people with manic psychosis made more dopamine, especially in the brain's limbic region, than people with psychosis plus depression. People with non-affective psychosis had more changes in the associative region of the brain. This means different types of psychosis share some dopamine changes but also have unique ones. Co-author Dr. Rob McCutcheon of the University of Oxford said, "Most of our current treatments for psychosis work by modulating dopamine signaling, but we often use them in a one-size-fits-all way. This study shows that dopamine dysfunction isn't uniform in psychosis. If we want to move beyond trial-and-error prescribing, we need to match treatments to underlying biology." More information: Sameer Jauhar et al, Dopamine and Mood in Psychotic Disorders, JAMA Psychiatry (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2025.1811 Journal information: JAMA Psychiatry HAMILTON, Ga. (WRBL) Southeastern Dental Center is aiming to honor veterans, active duty military personnel, law enforcement and first responders in their seventh annual Helping Heroes Smile event. The event, set to take place on Thursday, September 11, 2025, will provide free dental services in the Hamilton, Georgia community. After seeing the incredible response of the heroes who answered the call on 9/11, we felt a strong desire to show our gratitude and give back if possible, said founder and lead dentist at Southeastern Dental Center, Dr. Alan Arrington, DMD. This event allows us to support the community of veterans and first responders who were there for our country in a time of need. Its truly our honor to do what we can. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The group says last years event donated nearly $75,000 in services to almost 100 individuals. Those eligible for services will be helped on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is recommended and individuals must bring their ID card to be eligible. More specific details about the event are listed below. Location: 222 Hamilton Square St Hamilton, GA 31811 Date & Time: Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, 8:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. Eligibility: Heroes Military, Veterans and First Responders (All must have proper identification to receive treatment) Registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. with personal information being collected from those in attendance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more information, please visit SoutheasternDentalCenter.com/HelpingHeroes. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Residents in a Van Nuys neighborhood say theyre beyond frustrated as a man continues blasting his home alarms and a set of train horns from his house every day. Those living on the 6600 block of Peach Street said the noisy disruption has been going on for months and the man responsible for it, Gary Boyadzhyan, said he has no plans to stop. He does this periodically several times during the day, said Bob Donovan, a neighbor. It only shuts off when the air runs out because its blasted by air. Then he turns it back on. It has a range of 3.5 miles. Its an actual train horn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boyadzhyan claims he has a long-running grievance with LAPDs Van Nuys division over a personal issue and that the loud sirens are his way of getting the departments attention. I do sincerely apologize to my neighbors, Boyadzhyan told KTLAs Ellina Abovian. I, honestly to God, am so sorry to discomfort you guys in your own homes, but I dont know what else to do. KTLAs Ellina Abovian speaks to Gary Boyadzhyan on Aug. 13, 2025, over noise complaints from his neighbors about him blaring home alarms and train horns from his house everyday. (KTLA) Residents in a Van Nuys neighborhood say theyre beyond frustrated as a man continues blasting his home alarms and a set of train horns from his house every day in an effort to get the attention of LAPDs Van Nuys Division. (KTLA) A horn seen above Gary Boyadzhyans home in Van Nuys. (KTLA) Residents in a Van Nuys neighborhood say theyre beyond frustrated as a man continues blasting his home alarms and a set of train horns from his house every day in an effort to get the attention of LAPDs Van Nuys Division. (KTLA) Gary Boyadzhyan speaks to KTLA on Aug. 13, 2025, over noise complaints from his neighbors about him blaring home alarms and train horns from his house everyday. (KTLA) Police were called to Gary Boyadzhyans house on Aug. 13, 2025. (KTLA) Residents in a Van Nuys neighborhood say theyre beyond frustrated as a man continues blasting his home alarms and a set of train horns from his house every day in an effort to get the attention of LAPDs Van Nuys Division. (KTLA) He wouldnt explain what the nature of his personal grievance was, only saying that he needed help and that he wanted justice to be served. Neighbors constantly report the loud noises to the police and the horns will eventually turn off when officers show up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents feel helpless and many said its hard to have sympathy for the man, considering the relentless noise theyre forced to endure every day. I mean, I hear what hes saying, he needs help, but what kind of help does he need? a neighbor said in frustration. Many neighbors were upset that, despite constant calls to the Los Angeles Police Department, the disturbance showed no signs of stopping. They said Boyadzhyan reportedly turns off the horns before officers arrive. LAPD said that, to issue a citation, they would need to witness the horns and alarms blaring when they arrive, but that had not happened. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were out here this morning, another neighbor said. Three cop cars showed up. They were here for about half an hour, talking to him and then they hopped in their cars and drove away. On Wednesday night, LAPD confirmed that Boyadzhyan was arrested and taken to the Van Nuys Station for booking. Details on the potential charges he is facing were not provided. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. WEST PALM BEACH SouthTech Academy has reached a confidential settlement with the family of a student who was sexually abused by her teacher and later attempted suicide. Attorneys for both the school and family told U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg of the agreement in an Aug. 11 filing. The deal comes two weeks after another judge sentenced former AP English teacher Damian Conti, 37, to 35 years in prison for grooming and sexually abusing the 16-year-old student throughout the 2023-24 school year. In their 34-page lawsuit, the teen's family said administrators at the Boynton Beach charter school ignored rumors and visible signs of an inappropriate relationship between the teacher and his student. Conti sexually assaulted the girl multiple times on and off campus a pattern enabled by what Attorneys Jack Scarola and Victoria Mesa-Estrada described as a willful blindness from SouthTech staff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "SouthTech knew or should have known that Conti was not fit for service as a high school teacher and that he never should have been permitted to be around children," the lawsuit said. The school denied responsibility for Conti's actions, arguing in an April 16 motion that most of the claims brought by the student either failed to meet legal requirements or were barred by sovereign immunity the law that shields government entities from certain lawsuits. "The allegations illustrating Contis predatory behaviors are based on instances and situations that were not known and could not have been known to SouthTech administrators, faculty or staff by simply observing Conti and Jane Doe's time together on campus," wrote attorney Lyman Reynolds. Rosenberg ruled on Aug. 7 that most of the familys claims against the school could proceed, including allegations of negligent supervision, retention and training. The settlement announcement came just four days later. SouthTech teacher rejected plea deals, fought sex-abuse charges at trial Conti's crimes came to light in February 2024 when a student reported explicit messages between the former AP English teacher and the girl to school administrators. The school suspended Conti and sent the student home without first notifying her parents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school's then-principal, Eileen Turenne, retired from SouthTech three days later. After leaving the school, Conti and the student met at a Home Depot near Lake Worth Beach. There, the girl told Conti she planned to kill herself and ignored his pleas for her to stop. He accompanied her as she picked out the rope and chain to do it, held her car keys while she checked out and gave them back to her as she left. He remained in the shopping plaza while she drove away. After several minutes passed, he called 911. Palm Beach County sheriff's deputies found the girl hanging from a tree behind a nearby church. They cut the rope and resuscitated her. Assistant state attorneys Alexa Ruggiero and Nicole Corring show jurors the rope Damian Conti's student used to hang herself. Conti turned down 10- and 25-year plea offers and fought the charges at trial, maintaining that his relationship with the girl was emotionally inappropriate but never sexual. Lewd text messages, read aloud for more than an hour by prosecutors, indicated otherwise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Palm Beach County jury convicted Conti of four counts of unlawful sexual activity with a student but acquitted him of aiding in her suicide attempt in June. The student, now 18, testified during Conti's trial and his sentencing hearing, recalling their encounters in storage closets and parking lots in graphic detail. "I saw you as a beacon of guidance and hope. You, on the other hand, saw nothing in me but a narcissistic sex doll," she told Conti. "But I freed myself from that spider web of lies. I now see who you are: a short, egotistical, sick pedophile." Circuit Judge Howard Coates sentenced Conti to 35 years in prison on July 29. Prosecutors had recommended 50 years, while the defense asked for five. Attorneys for SouthTech Academy did not return a request for comment on the lawsuit settlement. In a joint statement, Scarola and Mesa-Estrada said the resolution will benefit Conti's victim but also "increase the future protection of every other vulnerable SouthTech student." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They did not say whether the settlement was strictly monetary or what protective measures, if any, the school agreed to take. "While we are restricted in discussing the amount of the negotiated settlement in this tragic case, we are pleased that SouthTech has acknowledged the very serious failures that occurred in safeguarding the students entrusted to the schools care," the statement read. Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: SouthTech, family reach settlement in teacher sex abuse suit For the first time in history, Indianapolis will have a nonstop flight to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Southwest Airlines will launch a seasonal nonstop route from Indianapolis to San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, starting March 5, 2026, for spring breakers looking to travel to the Baja California Sur destination. The route will travel from the Indianapolis International Airport to Los Cabos International Airport, one of two airports that serve the Mexican city, once daily on Saturdays through April 6, 2026, the Indianapolis Airport Authority announced August 14. Tickets are on sale now. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Without these nonstop flights, the only way that Indianapolis passengers can fly to Cabo requires connecting through airline hubs such as Dallas-Fort Worth and Chicago-O'Hare. Cabo is the second city in Mexico serviced by seasonal routes out of the Indianapolis International Airport, and the third new international connection the airport has announced in recent months. Southwest and American Airlines already offer seasonal flights to Cancun while Delta Airlines will start flying there nonstop seasonally in December. The IAA also announced new flights to Punta Canta and Dublin earlier this year. "New flights like this open doors. Cabo becomes our second destination in Mexico, and every new route means more convenience, more opportunity, and more ways were delivering on what Hoosiers want most," said Mario Rodriguez, executive director of the Indianapolis Airport Authority in a statement. 53 routes, 10 million passengers: How the IND airport hits records, captures the hearts of travelers Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the Cabo flight launches in the spring, Southwest will offer 21 nonstop routes from Indianapolis. By March, though, Southwest flights will look a little different for air travelers, as the airline is doing away with many of its long-time perks, including two free checked bags and open seating. Alysa Guffey writes business, health and development stories for IndyStar. Have a story tip? Contact her at amguffey@gannett.com or on X: @AlysaGuffeyNews. This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Southwest offers new nonstop flight from Indianapolis to Cabo, Mexico SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) San Angelo is exploring a project that could help the city reach new heights and were not just talking about the skyline. The Concho Valley Council of Governments (CVCOG) is examining whether the region could host a commercial space launchpad a project that could put the Concho Valley on the Texas space map. CVCOG received a $500,000 grant from the Texas Space Commission to conduct a feasibility study, aimed at determining if the area is ready to support commercial space launches. Officials say the study will examine the pros and cons of building a launchpad, but no land has been selected, and construction will only move forward if the project is feasible. All funding for the site would come from grants. This is just the start, said Assistant Executive Director Erin Hernandez, CVCOG, who stressed that the goal is transparency and community engagement. Well probably begin the actual study in November or December. Anytime were looking for community input, were going to put it out there online, in town halls, and through other outlets for those who dont use social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rollover crash off of Bell, Pulliam stalls traffic Officials emphasize that this would be strictly commercial space launches, including horizontal and vertical testing and potentially, one day, even passenger rockets. The possibilities of people actually going up in rockets is not out of the realm, so were excited about that too, Hernandez said. CVCOG Executive Director John Austin Stokes says the project could bring major economic benefits. We want to make sure were doing whats right by our people, but we also dont want to miss an opportunity that can change the landscape out here and change things economically in our region, Stokes said. He added that CVCOG is engaging a wide range of stakeholders to ensure the project is done right. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At this point, were having conversations with a lot of people, trying to ensure that we dont make the same mistakes others have, Stokes said. Some of our most important stakeholders are Congressman Pfluger, Rep. Darby and Sen. Perry. The potential benefits highlighted at the first meeting include job creation, economic growth, tourism, and business development. But officials acknowledge the community also has concerns about water usage, pollution, and potential accidents. Hernandez stressed that the feasibility study will carefully examine these issues and provide answers to put residents at ease. I think the fears are just that. Our fears are water, our fears are pollution. Our fears are those emergencies that may happen, accidents that may happen, and rightfully so, and so I hope, through our feasibility study and upon completion, we will put the community at ease and have some of those answers when that is all said and done, Hernandez said. County judges and local officials have been involved in discussions since last November, Hernandez said, adding that trust in CVCOGs process is high. They know if we put something into play, its because its whats best for the region, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If the study shows the project is feasible, CVCOG plans to seek additional grant funds to build the launchpad. Theres so much grant money out there for space and infrastructure, Hernandez said. Were excited to get this visibility study done, and if it comes back positive, well find the funds to make it happen. For now, the project remains in the planning stages a slow countdown before any rockets leave the ground. But for Concho Valley residents, the idea of joining the commercial space race is already generating excitement. After all, officials say, even if its just testing for now, the sky isnt the limit. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com. Spain on Thursday mourned its third wildfire death this week and Greece began beating back a blaze threatening its third-largest city as an unrelenting heatwave stoked tinderbox conditions in southern Europe. The extreme summer heat, which scientists say human-driven climate change is lengthening and intensifying, has fuelled blazes and stretched firefighters across the region, including Portugal and the Balkans. The fires have particularly scorched Spain, devouring over 157,000 hectares (388,000 acres) this year -- more than triple the area burned during the same period in 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spanish authorities said one person battling flames in the northwestern Castile and Leon region had died, taking the toll to three after earlier reporting fatalities there and near Madrid this week. Climate change is fuelling larger, more intense wildfires like those in Spain that can alter upper-atmosphere dynamics and create unpredictable winds, making fire behaviour harder to forecast, said Antonio Jordan Lopez, a wildfire expert at the University of Seville. "Picture a fire so fierce, so fast, and so unpredictable it seems alive, capable of reshaping the weather around it and leaping across kilometres in a heartbeat," he added. France announced it would send two water bombers to Spain, which has appealed to the European Union for aircraft to reinforce hard-pressed firefighting teams battling on several fronts, notably in the northwest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes this week in Spain because of the fires, mostly in Castile and Leon. - Arson arrests - Greece, which has also requested EU assistance against wildfires, gained ground against a major blaze that had closed in on the western port city of Patras. Firefighters there faced "scattered" pockets of flames but the fire was "still active" in the eastern outskirts of the city of 250,000 people, fire brigade spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis said. Some 600 ground crews and nearly 30 water bombing aircraft were deployed from dawn in all locations, he said, but gentler winds were helping the firefighting effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Major outbreaks also stretched emergency services on the tourist island of Zante, the Aegean island of Chios and near the western town of Preveza. Citing data from the EU's Copernicus satellite monitoring programme, the National Observatory of Athens said those fires and the Patras blaze had burned more than 10,000 hectares. Authorities said three men aged 19 to 27 had been detained on suspicion of starting some of the fires around Patras on Tuesday. Spanish investigators said Thursday they had arrested four people suspected of starting forest fires, taking the total number of accused this summer to 30. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'It was frightening' - Portugal mobilised more than 1,900 firefighters against four major blazes, with one in the central area of Trancoso having razed an estimated 14,000 hectares since Saturday. Another front that broke out on Wednesday in the mountainous central Arganil area occupied more than 800 firefighters. "The flames were enormous... it was frightening," a woman in the village of Mourisia told Sic Noticias television as she gazed at a slope enveloped in thick smoke. Although vulnerable and elderly people had been evacuated as a precaution, Antonio Silva refused to leave the village overnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I wanted to be here to help," said the man in his 70s, his face shielded with a mask. Expecting tough conditions Friday, the government has extended a state of alert until Sunday, Interior Minister Maria Lucia Amaral said. The measures bar access to forest areas, suspend some farm work and ban fireworks. The Balkans appeared to have overcome the worst of an exceptionally strong heatwave that worsened its traditional fire season, destroying homes and prompting the evacuation of thousands. Albanian firefighters continued to struggle against blazes around the country, with reports of more homes lost overnight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In neighbouring Montenegro, easing conditions and water-bombing aircraft helped gain the upper hand against wildfires. Tourist hotspots Rome and Venice were among 16 Italian cities placed on red alert for extreme heat, with peaks of 39 Celsius predicted for Florence on the eve of a busy holiday weekend. burs-imm-ds/phz SPARTANBURG, S.C. (WSPA) Voters in Spartanburg School District One will decide in November whether to approve a $140 million project to build two new schools and renovate one, without raising taxes. New Prospect Elementary, O.P. Earl Elementary, and Mabry Middle School are the schools targeted for upgrades. The proposal involves constructing new buildings for Mabry Middle School and O.P. Earl Elementary, as well as significant renovations at New Prospect Elementary. New Prospect Elementary will see an addition including a new cafeteria, kitchen, and eight new classrooms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DJ Brown, Director of Student Services for Spartanburg School District One says the issue all three schools are facing are age. So the average age of all of our buildings in Spartanburg [district] One is 58, which is actually ten years above the state average of 48, said Brown. Brown explained that Mabry Middle Schools current setup requires students to move between five different buildings daily, highlighting the need for a new building. We have the main office, front office building. We have another classroom building. We have the gym. We have another set of classes behind the gym, Brown said. We have a fine arts building that has the art and orchestra room in it. Then our students also have to travel up the stairs to go to the, cafeteria, which is actually shared with another school. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district is also addressing maintenance issues related to mechanical systems, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure, which can become increasingly costly to manage in older buildings. When youre talking about mechanical, youre talking about HVAC, plumbing, electrical, those are things that the infrastructure of a school building you have to address more frequently, Brown noted. The recurring cost of things, too, would be something that would be potentially problematic. The district plans to borrow the funds due to growth in property values. Were going to be at a place where we have a little bit more debt capacity, Brown said, adding that the same tax rate is going to create new revenue for us as school district. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If approved, the project will modernize facilities and address infrastructure issues without raising taxes. Informational meetings about the proposal are planned for the future and details 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 WSPA 7NEWS. NEW YORK (PIX11) Spectrum is looking to fill 75 sales roles across New York City, the communication company said on Thursday. A virtual hiring event will be held on Aug. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The company is looking to hire 20 salesmen in Brooklyn, 15 each in Woodside, Queens and Manhattan and 10 in College Point. More Local News The job responsibilities include selling Spectrum products door-to-door, through lobby events and building strong relationships with property managers, according to the posting. The salary starts at $50,000, but Spectrum said employees could make $115,000 in the first year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The requirements for a Spectrum sales position include: A high school diploma or equivalent experience At least a year of experience in sales or customer service Can easily use computers and phones Spectrum prefers candidates who are bilingual with Spanish proficiency and have at least two years experience in sales or related work. More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State Some benefits include a minimum starting wage of $20 per hour, tuition-free and discounted education, health benefits, a retirement plan, free and discounted Spectrum services and more. To register for the event, click here. Erin Pflaumer is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered both local and national news since 2018. She joined PIX11 in 2023. See more of her work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Officials at Spectrum are offering a $25,000 reward after one of the internet and cable companys fiber lines was allegedly intentionally cut in Northridge Wednesday, resulting in a temporary outage for customers in the surrounding area. The telecommunication company has faced repeated acts of vandalism on its equipment that cause widespread outages. Criminal attacks on communications infrastructure is a growing issue affecting the entire telecommunications industry, not just spectrum, the company said in a news release. These acts are not only a crime, but threaten public safety. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent incident, according to a company spokesperson, happened Wednesday afternoon. Extra technicians were brought in and were working overnight to splice more than 1,600 fibers to make the repairs and restore service to their customers. We expect to complete the repairs from the fiber cuts and restore our services overnight, the spokesperson told KTLA. A widespread Spectrum outage in Northridge, according to the company, was caused by a felony criminal attack on Aug. 13, 2025. (Spectrum) A widespread Spectrum outage in Northridge, according to the company, was caused by a felony criminal attack on Aug. 13, 2025. (Spectrum) A widespread Spectrum outage in Northridge, according to the company, was caused by a felony criminal attack on Aug. 13, 2025. (Spectrum) (Spectrum) In June, the company described criminal acts of network vandalism that led to more than a 30-hour outage for some 50,000 customers across Los Angeles and Ventura counties and other nearby communities. Among those impacted were a U.S. military base, emergency dispatch and 911 communication services, local fire and police departments, financial institutions, court buildings, healthcare facilities and hospitals, educational institutions, as well as cell towers providing mobile services, the company said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of those victims, as well as the nature of the fiber cuts and extent of damage, Spectrums parent company, Charter Communications, said it has deemed the June 15 attack an act of domestic terrorism. Lesbian teen says Buffalo Wild Wings server forced her to prove gender in restroom The L.A. Police Department, however, said in a statement to KTLA at the time that the incident was being investigated as a case of felony vandalism. The rise in telecommunication equipment vandalism, according to industry experts, is likely tied to the increasing cost of precious metals, which can be found inside the cables. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As in the other instances, Spectrum is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for the Northridge vandalism. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Spectrum at 833-404-TIPS or contact local law enforcement officials. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Flashing yellow lights will return this week throughout the Oklahoma City metro area as schools reopen for their first day. These traffic lights signal the twice-a-day school zone speed limit. This change can affect your typical commute by dropping the speed limit by 20 miles per hour to ensure students are getting to and from school safely. Oklahoma City Police Department said they will be utilizing increased enforcement for the first weeks of school to make sure speeding drivers are yielding to . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if you're going five mph over the speed limit to get your student to school, getting pulled over in the school zone could result in almost $200 in fines in several parts of the metro. Here are the different fines you could receive for speeding in the school zone. Can you guess which city has the highest fines? What is the punishment for speeding in the school zone? In the Oklahoma City metro, several towns and cities will give you a fine if you are found going over the speed limit in a school zone. In The Village, the fine will differ depending on how much you are speeding in the area, but in other places, there is a flat rate for speeding. Here's a list of the starting prices for fines in Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas in the metro. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 25 or 35? How school zone speed limits are decided Oklahoma Statute reads that school zone speed limits are 25 miles per hour; however, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation may make exceptions. After conducting an engineering and traffic investigation, the DOT can rule that a speed limit higher than 25 mph "may be reasonable and safe" if the zone exists upon a highway. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Speeding in an OKC school zone could cost you: See fines around metro This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain While smoking rates in the United States have substantially declined over the past six decades, smoking remains high among people with low incomes, leading to health disparities. A smartphone app that delivers real-time, tailored messages may hold the key to helping them quit, according to University of Oklahoma clinical trial results published in JAMA Network Open. The clinical trial compared two different smartphone tobacco cessation apps: Smart-T, which was developed by OU researchers, and QuitGuide, a product of the National Cancer Institute. Smart-T is designed to gauge users' risk of smoking throughout the day and to respond in real time with custom messages depending on what people are experiencing. QuitGuide is a static app that allows users to track their cravings and provides tips for resisting the urge to smoke. After six months of using the apps, those who used Smart-T were nearly twice as likely to have quit smoking than those who used the QuitGuide app. "Smart-T is like having a tobacco cessation counselor in your pocket. While a combination of behavioral counseling and medication is the most effective way to quit smoking, in-person counseling may not be practical for everyone, especially those facing barriers like transportation or busy schedules. With Smart-T, our motivation is to make the app comparable to standard counseling treatments," said the study's lead author, Emily Hebert, DrPH, a member of the TSET Health Promotion Research Center (HPRC) at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center and an assistant professor of family and preventive medicine in the OU College of Medicine. During the trial, which enrolled 454 low-income smokers from across the United States, half were randomly assigned to use Smart-T and the other half QuitGuide. Those using Smart-T received up to five prompts a day to provide input about their urges to smoke, whether they were around other smokers, their stress level, their mood and other variables that are known to increase the risk of smoking. Based on their answers, the app's algorithm created a risk score and then responded with messages tailored to each person's particular type of risk, such as a suggestion to do a breathing exercise or to use nicotine replacement therapy. Participants in both groups were provided nicotine patches or gum or lozenges. "Not only were Smart-T users significantly more likely to quit smoking after six months compared to those using the QuitGuide app, we also found that they used Smart-T more, found it more helpful, and were more likely to ask for more nicotine therapy if they ran out," Hebert said. Participants' smoking status was verified when they blew into a device connected to the phone, which measures carbon monoxide in their breath. Facial recognition software confirmed the participant was the one using the device. Hebert said this is one of the first trials testing a mobile app to verify participants' smoking status biochemically. Next steps are to study Smart-T in larger groups across the United States and with follow-up times longer than six months. "Some people who smoke will not benefit from apps like Smart-T, but low-cost and always-available smartphone interventions could provide a convenient way for low-income adults to quit. We're really trying to find the best recipe for smoking cessation for everyone," she said. More information: Emily T. Hebert et al, Just-in-Time Adaptive Intervention for Smoking Cessation in Low-Income Adults A Randomized Clinical Trial, JAMA Network Open (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.26691 Journal information: JAMA Network Open SPRINGFIELD, Mo. Ten years after the Supreme Court extended marriage rights to same-sex couples across the country, this fall the justices will consider taking up a case to overturn that decision. A petition was filed officially asking the Supreme Court to revisit its decision on Obergefell v. Hodges. At the GLO Center in Springfield, they are hoping the court wont take the case. Our thoughts on the issue have really just been to prepare for the worst and hope for the best, said Executive Director Aaron Schekorra. So for our community, were letting folks know what things they can do to protect their family and their relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk jailed for six days in 2015 for refusing to issue marriage licenses to a gay couple on religious grounds, argues 1st Amendment protection for free exercise of religion protects her from personal liability for the denial of marriage licenses. Its her petition that is going before the Supreme Court, asking to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges. She says it was egregiously wrong that the high court extended marriage rights for same-sex couples under the 14th Amendments due process protections. Our hope is that this petition that Davis has filed with support from some, what I consider hate groups, that it just gets passed over and ignored, Schekorra said. I personally dont think that there is a lot of desire to revisit this issue on the court. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Schekorra says the news of a direct challenge to overturn marriage equality does not come as a shock. On a personal level, Im angry, Schekorra said. Im trying to remember that this is one step in a long list of steps that would need to be taken to take these rights away from us. But it shouldnt matter. This should not be a topic thats up for debate, in my opinion. He tells me he believes there are other issues plaguing the nation that should be dealt with other than same-sex marriage. 70% of the United States believes that same-sex marriage should continue to be a right, Schekorra said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says even if the high court does hear the arguments and decides to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, people will still have time to get married before it goes into effect. We dont recommend that folks rush out and get into marriages out of fear, Schekorra said. Theres time to get everything in order, get the legal paperwork that we need. Schekorra says the Supreme Court decision in 2015 is the reason why he was able to get married in the first place, since Missouri and his home state of Texas does not have it enshrined in state law. What weve been hearing from legal experts is that there wont be a way for marriages to be invalidated, Schekorra said. So if you have a marriage license in a state like Missouri that does not have marriage equality enshrined at the state level, your marriage should still be valid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com. SPRINGFIELD Police arrested one man accused of pointing a gun at undercover detectives and a second who crashed his car into an unmarked cruiser during the subsequent investigation on Wednesday. The incident led to a short standoff on Governor Street, which ended about 5 p.m. when one of the suspects surrendered, said Ryan Walsh, police spokesman. Carmelo Serrano, 40, of Springfield, was charged with multiple offenses, including two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, carrying a firearm without a license, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and firearm violation with three prior violent or drug crimes, Walsh said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnathan Melendez, 21, of Springfield, was charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and leaving the scene of a property damage crash, he said. Plainclothes detectives with the police Firearms Investigation Unit were working on Governor Street around 4:20 p.m. when Melendez pulled next to their unmarked car. He spoke to the officers and then parked his car. About 10 minutes later, he moved his vehicle to block the detectives, said Ryan Walsh, police spokesman. Simultaneously, Serrano walked toward the detectives and allegedly pointed a firearm at them. He then fled into a home, Walsh said. When additional officers arrived to assist the detectives, Melendez allegedly crashed his car into a cruiser. As he tried to drive away, police stopped and arrested him, Walsh said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple officers who responded then set up a perimeter around the house that Serrano ran into. Officers then spoke to the residents, who convinced Serrano to surrender, Walsh said. After the arrests, detectives received a warrant and searched the home. They recovered a loaded gun that was reported to have been stolen in Springfield. In addition, they found three magazines, one of which was high capacity and two of them loaded with a total of 23 rounds, plus 92 other bullets, Walsh said. Read the original article on MassLive. ST. CHARLES, Mo. A St. Charles High School teacher is accused of keeping child pornography. Court documents obtained by FOX 2 News state officers with the St. Charles County Police Department arrested Louis N. Saubers, 45, at the school on Tuesday. Saubers is a speech and theater teacher at the high school. Grand Jury indictment reveals more about daycare death Police said they discovered child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on Saubers phone. Court docs also revealed disturbing online conversations in which Saubers allegedly bragged about molesting underage boys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The school district placed Saubers on administrative leave following his arrest. The St. Charles County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Saubers with one count of possession of child pornography. Saubers remains jailed on a $185,000 cash-only bond. Online court records do not show when hell appear before a judge. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. 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. HURRICANE, Utah (ABC4) A St. George man, who previously pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual activity with a minor, has been charged with possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Ricardo Robert Riggs, 28, was charged with 20 second-degree felony counts of sexual exploitation of a minor on Aug. 14, 2025. Last month, on July 25, he was charged with 19 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, facing 39 counts across two cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, in July 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a tip that a user was uploading CSAM to their account. This tip was passed to the Utah County Attorney Generals Office, along with a second tip that was also connected to the case. READ NEXT: Honduran man allegedly kidnapped, sexually assaulted 17-year-old, charges say An officer with the Hurricane City Police Department investigated the tips and eventually connected them to Riggs through filing search warrants and months of work. The officer was able to track down Riggs home address and created a search warrant for his residence. On July 23, 2025, Hurricane officers served the search warrant and took Riggs into custody. He was booked into the Washington County Jail for the 19 files of CSAM that were uploaded to his Kik account. Riggs allegedly denied knowing anything about the files, and his electronic devices were seized. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two days later, on July 25, Riggs was charged with 19 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor for the files that were uploaded on Kik. While being held in jail, Riggs reportedly refused to attend his initial appearance, and it had to be rescheduled. A copy of a plea offer was delivered to him in jail, and he has a resolution hearing scheduled for Aug. 19. On Aug. 12, the Hurricane officer completed a search warrant to download information from the two phones taken from Riggs during his arrest. On the phones, the officer located 40 files of CSAM, including videos and photos. Riggs was rebooked into the Washington County Jail for the files of CSAM located on his personal devices. Today, Aug. 14, he was charged with 20 additional felony counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Murray woman charged for creating, distributing CSAM online, documents say Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Previously, in 2022, Riggs pleaded guilty to having unlawful sexual activity with a minor in 2015. Documents say he had sexually abused a 14-year-old after serving her alcohol, and the severity of the charges was lowered to Class B misdemeanors through his plea deal. In 2023, Riggs exposed himself to another inmate at the Washington County Jail while serving jail time for his 2022 offense. He was initially charged with a third-degree felony count of lewdness, but the severity was lowered to a Class B misdemeanor through a plea agreement. Currently, Riggs is being held without bail at the Washington County Jail for his two current cases involving possession of CSAM. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. ST. LOUIS A federal jury convicted a St. Louis County man of multiple child sex crimes on Wednesday afternoon. David S. Becker, 69, was found guilty of one count of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, in addition to one count of receiving/distributing child pornography. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, evidence and testimony at the trial, which began Monday, showed that Becker began corresponding with a person on a nudist website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That person claimed to be a mother of an 11-year-old girl in France. Becker and the person discussed sex acts involving the respondent and the child. Investigators say Becker bought plane tickets for France and an extended-stay visa, planning to travel there in June 2023. Before then, authorities were already working on a cyber tipline report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about someone uploading child sexual abuse material. That led investigators to conduct a court-approved search of Beckers home in May 2023. Grand Jury indictment reveals more about daycare death During the search, investigators found CSAM on Beckers electronic devices, as well as years of communications about Beckers plans to sexually abuse the child. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In her opening statement to jurors, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson called Beckers conduct deranged and unnatural. Becker is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 1. He could face anywhere from 30 years behind bars to life in prison with these convictions. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. The owner of St. Paul Brewing is suing the city of St. Paul and its housing authority for pushing to rezone parts of the Hamms brewery site for new housing development, a move he says will eliminate parking vital to the continued success of his businesses. Rob Clapp, a developer who owns St. Paul Brewing, a distillery and a fabrication shop at the Hamms site, is hoping to block a city plan to rezone parcels of land that are currently industrial into neighborhood zones to accommodate proposed affordable housing. St. Pauls Housing and Redevelopment Authority sold property at the Hamms site to businesses starting in 2012. The aim was to encourage private development of the site of the former brewery, which closed in 1997. As part of the agreement, the HRA agreed to maintain a parking lot for use by businesses, according to the lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Clapps lawsuit comes ahead of an Aug. 20 St. Paul City Council vote to approve a plan that would rezone five parcels of industrial land at the 19th-century Hamms Brewery campus off Payne and Minnehaha avenues on St. Pauls East Side. Were done trying to change minds and hearts, Clapp said last week as he prepared to sue the city. Theyre just not interested in looking for solutions or compromise, and theyve told us that theyre not interested in creative solutions. Expanding businesses Clapp, who also owns Dark Horse Bar & Eatery in Lowertown and Can Can Wonderland in Hamline-Midway, acquired property on the Hamms site in 2021. Since acquiring Hamms property four years ago, Clapps businesses have expanded. St. Paul Brewing now has a sprawling patio, and there are plans to open a cocktail lounge tied to the 11Wells distillery in another building on the site. Clapp has also stated a fabrication shop where artists build new works for display at his businesses. Without clarity on parking and zoning, plans to expand into the second floor of the St. Paul Brewing building at 688 Minnehaha Ave. and other growth plans remain on hold, said Clapp, who argues the city needs to continue honoring the parking agreement. Further, the rezoning plan would violate state law, he and others have argued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three of the five parcels up for rezoning havent drawn controversy, but two parcels on the Hamms site will be changed from industrial zones into a mixed-use traditional neighborhood zones. Those parcels would be islands inside a larger industrial zone, which the citys Planning Commission found constituted illegal spot zoning in a 9-2 May decision. Spot zoning is the reclassification of a small part of a land parcel to allow a project to go forward. Despite that finding and Clapps objections, council members are still moving forward with the plan. City response In response to the lawsuit, city council member and HRA chair Cheniqua Johnson referred back to a July 23 statement when the city council voted 6-0 to set the rezoning plan at the Hamms site in motion. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The future of this site is not manufacturing its housing, mixed-use development, and walkable neighborhoods, Johnson said. We support bringing affordable housing to this historic site. We want housing, thriving local businesses, and a site where East Siders can live, work, and visit. Over the last four years, Clapps businesses have invested more than $1.7 million in the property, according to the lawsuit. That total includes the price of the property and improvements, as well as a new distillery. Clapps companies are spending about $1.2 million on renovations for the distillery, which will include a cocktail room and patio that could open later this year. Clapp has told the city council he has no problem with installing housing in the existing brewery building. But a new building in a parking lot on the east side of the Hamms site would make it challenging for customers and workers to find parking. Housing project St. Pauls HRA chose the developer JB Vang to build the housing project in 2023. The initial proposal called for 259 affordable housing units and a two-level indoor marketplace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The brewhouse building would hold the marketplace and 84 artist lofts. The east parking lot would have been turned into 11 rowhomes and 164 rental apartments. Rowhome plans are no longer moving forward, and JB Vang cut the number of proposed units from 164 to 110 to allow for a parking lot with 70 spots. But Clapp says that still wont allow for enough parking at the complex. His lawsuit claims that if fully developed, the area could require as many as 450 parking spaces under the parking minimum requirements the city repealed in 2021 Management for JB Vang couldnt immediately be reached for comment on Wednesday. Related Articles The Brief Molly Coleman, the daughter of former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, has been elected to the St. Paul City Council following a special election to replace former member Mitra Jalali. Unofficial results posted by the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State show Coleman with 52.36% or 3,359 total votes with all precincts reporting on Wednesday. Jalali announced her resignation in January 2025, saying she would step down to focus on her mental health. ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Following the resignation of Mitra Jalali earlier this year to focus on her mental health, Molly Coleman the daughter of former St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman has been elected to the St. Paul City Council. Molly Coleman elected to St. Paul City Council What we know Unofficial results posted by the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State show Coleman with 52.36% or 3,359 total votes with all precincts reporting on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three other candidates also lobbied for the position, including school board member Chauntyll Allen, public health educator Cole Hanson, and communications professional Carolyn Will. The latter was the closest opponent, receiving 21.34% good for 1,369 votes. Hanson came in third, with 17.52% of the vote total. Because Coleman received more than 50% of the votes, there will be no reallocation of votes in the ranked-choice election. Coleman will join an all-female council tasked with tackling city issues such as rising rents, homelessness and the erosion of downtowns tax base. Mitra Jalali stepping down Dig deeper In January 2025, Jalali publicly announced she would be stepping down, effective following the Feb. 5 council meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the post, Jalali explained how working in politics has put a strain on her health. "Being an elected official is a privilege. It also carries human costs that are far less visible than the role you are elected to," she explained at the time. "It is not an easy job, and if you are doing it well, it shouldnt be. But when your body is telling you that you shouldnt be in the place that you come to work every day, it knows something that you have to listen to." Jalali's current term was set to run through 2028, when the council switches election years to match presidential elections. Nora Egozcue waited patiently at the lectern in St. Petersburg City Council chambers as her mother lowered the microphone for her to be heard. Nora smiled. She told the City Council about how she and her mom helped paint the Pride flag mural on Central Avenue. It was a lot of fun, she said, and Nora painted the dark blue stripe in honor of her Uncle Keith, who recently died. When I was painting that stripe, I felt like I was giving a piece of that stripe to him, said Nora, 8. The Pride flag is like a big, warm, big hug from the city to say, You matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nora was one of about 30 people who asked the council and Mayor Ken Welch on Thursdayto protect the Pride and Black History Matters street murals. They were joined by others whoheld signs, chanted and spoke of resistance to state overreachearlier on the steps of City Hall. Their appeals come after Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue posted a letter in July that ordered cities to keep their streets free and clear of political ideologies. The letter followed a transportation bill that Gov. Ron DeSantis signed into law that took aim at painted roads. The letter calls for the immediate removal of any pavement surface art that is associated with social, political, or ideological messages or images and does not serve the purpose of traffic control. The state could withhold funding from cities that do not comply, the letter read. This is a jewel of our city, and its under threat right now, said John Gascot, who helped paint the Black History Matters mural in front of The Woodson African American Museum of Florida in St. Petersburg. Im not going to call it a removal, because what it is is erasure. Brian Longstreth started a petition, now with more than 2,500 signatures, on Aug. 2 to fight back against State overreach and anti-gay rhetoric. The petition urges local government officials to take action to protect street murals and public art. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Longstreth also spoke at Thursdays City Council meeting. Hesaid hes owned his business in St. Petersburg since 1992, and hasnt been as anxious as he is in this moment. He urged the council to stand up for residents. Stand up for diversity. Stand up to the attacks on people of color. Stand up to the attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, Longstreth told the City Council. Stand up against our erasure and stand up for all of our street murals, not just some. Welch wrote in a statement Thursday afternoon that the city is working to compile an inventory of painted pieces, understand the scope of the memo and discuss if any of the citys public art qualifies for an exemption to the rule. The city is going to wait for a determination from the state Transportation Department before acting. Regardless of outcome, we will continue to explore ways to reflect our culture and values as a city, Welch said. Some speakers, like Rachel Covello, said the murals beautify the city and add appeal for tourists. Covello said words like gay, queer, transgender and pride are disappearing from marketing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Covello told the City Council that travelers choose destinations where they feel safe, celebrated and represented. This is more than crosswalks, Covello said. Its the slow erasure of cultural truth from our streets, our tourism materials, in our shared narrative. The City Council voted to discuss the Transportation Department letter at a later committee meeting. Council member Brandi Gabbard asked for the discussion. She said she wanted to focus on complying with the state mandate, but also on finding alternatives to show public art and commemorate the citys history. Council member Richie Floyd said he considers the states rules to be a hate crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, we had people defacing [the murals] and getting arrested for hate crimes, and now the people who are in charge of the state and federal government are literally siding with the people doing hate crimes, Floyd said. This is no different to me, this is another one. Woodson African American Museum of Florida Director Terri Lipsey Scott said she understands the pressure on local governments to comply with state directives. The museum is a pillar of truth, history and justice, Scott said, and sees the road rules as a mode of suppression. They can paint over our streets, but they cannot erase our faces.They can edit the history books, but we will keep telling the truth," Scott told council members. We will not falter. Lifelong St. Petersburg resident Mary McMullen enjoyed her peaceful, quiet, retired life. But anger brought her to City Hallon Wednesday, sign in hand. Anger, she said, at the fact that the Florida Department of Government Efficiency has landed inSt. Petersburg. The team of state officials is visiting local governments to review financial and policy documents in what it describes as on-site audits. The team visited Pinellas County last week, and finished its review of Hillsborough County on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Florida Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia said the team is visiting local governments to shine a light on wasteful spending during a news conference at St. Petersburg City Hall on Wednesday. The goal is to grant property tax relief to Florida residents and shrink local government budgets, Ingoglia said. Baloney! McMullen said from inside City Hall, where Ingoglia was speaking. Thats not what theyre here for. She said the team is in town to attack priorities the local community values, like promoting diversity and inclusion. McMullen and about 20 other St. Petersburg residents held signs to protest the DOGE teams visit. She held a sign that read, We Like DEI, We Hate DOGE! And as Ingoglia answered questions from reporters, McMullen and other protesters shouted their opposition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Through our travels, we are seeing local governments spend on things that they probably shouldnt be spending on, Ingoglia said. Like what? a crowd of protesters shouted back. St. Pete should decide how we spend our money, another voice called out. You guys can talk as long and loud as you want, Ingoglia replied. I am hellbent on delivering property tax relief to the state of Florida, so have fun. So far, Ingoglia said, DOGE workers have seen egregious examples of waste, fraud and abuse in local governments statewide. He declined to answer what has been found in the DOGE teams reviews at Wednesdays news conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reports detailing the results of DOGEs reviews could be released within 60 days of a sitevisit, Ingoglia added. Ahead of this weeks visit, the DOGE team requested documents from local governments that described topics such as diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, environment and sustainability work and homeless services. The team also requested to meet with some city officials, such as St. PetersburgsChief Equity Officer George Smith and ADA and Diversity Coordinator Lendel Bright. Some residents like McMullen said they were concerned the state DOGEs actions could undermine decisions made by elected St. Petersburg City Council members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats what Im angry about, McMullen said. The citizens here want what they want. City Council members Brandi Gabbard and Copley Gerdes visited protesters outside of City Hall on Wednesday. Gabbard is concerned about reform or cuts to property taxes on homestead properties, she said, which would have a chilling effect on how the City Council can support its residents. She emphasized that government efficiency is important. But she sees the DOGE teams visit as an encroachment on the citys authority. I think we here in the city of St. Petersburg do a very good job in making sure, through our budgetary process, that were being as efficient as possible with every single dollar that comes in from our residents, Gabbard said. Quite frankly, I think that this is an overreach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pinellas County officials sent more than 18,000 documents to the state DOGE team ahead of the on-site review. Hillsborough County officials also sent too many documents to count to the state team, according to a county spokesperson. Ingoglia said the DOGE team is reviewing the submissions document by document. He told reviewers to act as police investigators. As he spoke, protesters continued to raise signs and shout. One sign read, Fake DOGE auditors not welcome here. One protester held a sign in the shape of a gravestone with the words American Democracy, 1776-2025 written on the front. Were going to put the information in the hands of the voters so they can decide what theyre going to do when their elected officials run for reelection, Ingoglia said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its BS! McMullen shouted as he spoke. A police officer quickly escorted her outside. The state DOGE team spent much of the day in the Municipal Services Center building reviewing requested documents, according to a city statement. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch said the city had a successful first day with the state DOGE team. As stated when we first received the request, the city is complying with all DOGE requests and will provide any additional information or clarification as needed, Welch said. As we continue through this process, our main priority remains inclusive progress for our city, based on our shared values, and moving forward with clarity, purpose and integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Protesters returned outside City Hall at about 4 p.m. Kaitlin Bennett, a conservative social media personality, visited the afternoon protest. She asked many protesters questions about their signs and DOGE, while someone else recorded video of the interactions. Tina Aultman and Nicole Huau were among the 30 or so protesters who returned later on Wednesday. They said they have lived in St. Petersburg since the early 2000s. They saw how the city of Gainesville received a DOGE visit and were taken aback. But once they found out DOGE was coming to St. Petersburg, they decided to come out to protest. I thought, No, not my city, Aultman said. LITTLE ROCK, Ark. The doors at St. Theresa Catholic School have opened for another school year, and parents dropped their children off, confident that they were being left in good hands. Crystal Alvarez says its not always easy to leave your child behind, but it gets easier each year at St. Theresa. Its a very small community, theyre always together, great teachers, great curriculum, Alvarez said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: A nostalgic look at the first day of school with KARK 4 News team The school has been standing for over 50 years, and St. Theresa Pastor Stephen Gadberry said their core values remain the same. We really try to embrace each child as they come and meet their needs, not just to prepare them intellectually but for them to be good people all around, Gadberry said. Leaders say its not just about learning but also giving the students a strong foundation spiritually, that method working according to Gadberry as they continue to see growth. Were excited to provide this formation to more kids than ever and for this community that continues to grow, Gadberry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PHOTOS: Arkansas heads back to school in 2025 He says each year has its challenges with students adapting to not being around their parents, but Alvarez says all it takes is encouragement from teachers and faith from parents to have a successful school year. Just pray over your children every day, make sure theyre getting all the help they need in school, and just make sure theyre learning everything they can, Alverez 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 KARK. 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 Home should be a place where people feel comfortable and safe. But the poor quality of many Australian houses means this isn't possible for some people. Homes are often drafty, damp, too hot in summer and too cold in winter, requiring high energy amounts of energy to maintain a comfortable temperature. Around 70% of houses in Australia have an energy rating of three stars or lower (out of 10) on the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme New homes now require seven or more stars. Currently, more than 80% of homes in Victoria are colder than 18 degrees in winter, which is the minimum temperature recommended by the World Health Organization. Making one room a safe haven Renters and homeowners can find themselves in a bindunable to afford high energy bills to heat and cool their homes, but also unable to pay for any home improvements that reduce bills. Energy improvements like insulation, solar panels and reverse-cycle air conditioning can be costly to install for a whole home. It can also be difficult to know where to start. A Climate Safe Room is a first step to help make homes more healthy and efficient. Rather than working on the whole house, applying energy efficiency measures to just one room can create a safe haven during extreme heat and cold. Building on work by the local council in Mildura in 2011 to 'cocoon' vulnerable residents against extreme heat waves, Climate Safe Rooms have been piloted by Geelong Sustainability and Yarra City Council. The Energy Efficiency and Electrification Alliance of suppliers and installers has been working with social housing, government and charities to deliver Climate Safe Rooms. These programs for vulnerable residents provide valuable lessons for anyone in the energy bill bind. A Climate Safe Room is typically the place where people spend the most time during the dayusually a living room. The same approach could be used for a bedroom to improve sleep during heat waves or cold winter nights. If the main concern is escaping heat in the summer, then a room on the south side of the house might be best. Creating your own Climate Safe Room The first step is draft-proofing to stop air leaking in or out of the roomkeeping heat inside in winter and out in summer. Draft-proofing means sealing gaps around windows, doors, floorboards and skirting boards, and blocking chimneys. This can be done by installing simple strips and products on door and window frames, and caulking gaps in floors and walls. These are low-cost measures that can often be installed yourself even if you have limited prior skill or experience, with plenty of advice available online. Stopping air flow can both reduce and increase air pollution inside the room. Gas heaters and stoves produce pollution, so rooms with these appliances shouldn't be sealed without adequate ventilation. On the other hand, stopping polluted air coming in from outside can be beneficial for homes on busy roads or during bushfires. Ceiling insulation is the next step for climate-proofing the room. This could involve installing insulation for the first time or upgrading existing insulation. Insulation standards have improved significantly in recent years, providing an incentive to upgrade or add an extra layer. Heat transfer through windows can be reduced with thermal insulating curtains or blinds. Keeping blinds and curtains closed on hot days and cold nights keeps heat in or out when you most need it. Secondary glazing, reflective films and double glazing are other options to further improve the energy performance of existing windows. Each comes with different costs and installation complexity. Heating and cooling a Climate Safe Room Outdoor shading can be important for reducing heat flow through windows and walls. In summer, external blinds or barriers can reduce heat from the sun. In winter, these should be removed to make the most of any warmth. Once the heat transfer into and out of the room is reduced, the next step is to install reverse-cycle air conditioning. These electric appliances are the most efficient form of heating and cooling and don't produce indoor air pollution. In a Climate Safe Room, air conditioning can be run more efficiently, because the heat or cool air stays in the room, rather than leaking out through ceilings, windows, doors and gaps. The Retrofit Lab at the University of Melbourne has been working with the Energy Efficiency and Electrification Alliance to share knowledge about Climate Safe Rooms and the urgent need to improve Australian houses. Together, we built a Climate Safe Room to show these techniques and products to the public. With the help of our online resources, we hope everyone will feel empowered to create a climate haven in their own home. Aug. 13MORGANTOWN With a unanimous vote Tuesday evening, the Morgantown Utility Board joined Star City Town Council in approving an asset purchase agreement and an operations and maintenance agreement that will allow MUB to take over Star City's water, sewer and stormwater utilities. The acquisition now heads to Charleston for a final review by the West Virginia Public Service Commission. If ultimately approved by the PSC, MUB will take complete ownership of all Star City water and sewer lines and facilities. As the state set up stormwater management as a municipal public work not a public utility the O &M agreement will make MUB the operational agent for the town's stormwater system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of March, Star City had 945 water and sewer customers, 17 miles of gravity sewer lines and 10.5 miles of water main. There were 877 customers in Star City's MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System). MUB was already the town's treated water provider and all sewer flows out of Star City are treated at MUB's riverside treatment facility, which is located in the town. While Star City officials initially hoped its customers could be taken in at MUB's "Morgantown " rates, Star City customers will see their rates remain unchanged. The two sides began working publicly on the merger in March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At that time, a Star City customer was paying $13.20 more than a MUB customer for the same amount of water. On the sewer side, MUB customers were paying $3.68 more. MUB's stormwater fees were $7.58 (flat rate) and $3.03 (per 1, 000 square feet). Star City's fees were $5.88 and $2.35 respectively. These numbers do not reflect increases that took effect on both sides as of July 1. "Really, what it amounts to is Morgantown is higher on sewer than what Star City is. Star City is higher on water than what Morgantown is. If you put the two together, it's not a big difference, " Star City Mayor Sharon Doyle said. While Doyle said it's disappointing that Star City's customers couldn't be taken in at MUB's standard rates, the acquisition is still a tremendous net benefit to the town. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is something that we should have done a long time ago. We're a small town. We don't generate the revenue we need for large, capital improvements. So, in order to effectively serve our citizens and protect the water and environment, this is where we need to go." Doyle continued. "Our staff does what they can do and they do a great job, but we don't have engineers and the expertise and staffing that MUB can offer. It's going to be good for our public works staff to be able to focus on streets and our parks and other things they've had to put off because of working on the water and sewer systems." Star City joins Westover, which will finalize MUB's acquisition of its systems once the Holland Avenue and Dents Run pump station projects are complete. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MUB is currently operating Westover's water, sewer and stormwater systems via an O &M agreement. Under MUB, rate changes for Star City and Westover customers will go before Morgantown City Council. Maryland State Superintendent Carey Wright, left, speaks during a back-to-school news conference Wednesday as State Board of Education President Joshua Michael listens. (Photo by William J. Ford/Maryland Matters) With the 2025-26 school year starting next week in some counties, Marylands two top education leaders had a message for local school officials: Follow state law. The calm, but stern warning came Wednesday during a back-to-school news conference in Baltimore with State Superintendent Carey Wright and state Board of Education President Joshua Michael. Neither named specific school districts, but when reporters asked about administrative and policy changes related to diversity, equity and inclusion programs in Calvert and Somerset counties, they did not hesitate to answer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Maryland we have a state public education system. Local school board leaders who lead local school systems are actually state officials, Michael said. They have authority within the state system that Dr. Wright leads to really bring that local context into schools and ensure that the management day to day and the policy set for local school system are done well. But at the end of the day, its a Maryland public education system. It is not a specific county, he said. That was echoed by Wright, who said she meets monthly with local superintendents, when topics include changes to federal government policies on DEI, immigration and other topics. As Dr. Michael said, every district is so different, and the local politics are very different, but the state law is not different per district, she said. So thats where we want to make sure that everybody is very clear on what the state law has to say about any issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Calvert County school board voted in June to remove an anti-racism resolution from its student code of conduct that began with a statement of outrage over the 2020 deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, as well as countless other African Americans who have lost their lives as a result of racism and police brutality that persist in our country. The board also voted to remove the resolution from the school systems website and social media platforms, reasoning that the previous board in June 2020 did not vote to add the resolution to the student code. That was done by staff without board directive, board President Jana Post said during the meeting this June. On Thursday, the five-member board took less than 3 minutes to vote to repeal the school systems antiracism policy, last revised in February 2024. I would like to be sure and make it clear that we have a discrimination policy in place that covers all forms of illegal discrimination, Post said. So having a separate antiracism policy is redundant. It sends the message that we are elevating one form of discrimination over all other forms of discrimination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email Wednesday, Post said the boards only comment is that we support the safety of all students and groups any discrimination, as outlined in our current discrimination policy and procedure. Last weeks decision will be posted for 30 days for public comment and Calvert County resident Birgit Sharp has some comments she plans to share. Sharp, a member of local community group CANDLE (Community Action Network for Democracy Liberties and Equality), and others protested prior to the boards vote last week. Its really scary to me that this happened, Sharp said Wednesday. This is a school [system] with not a lot of people of color. To not have the extra protections put in there is scary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One next step, Sharp said, will be mobilizing residents who may want to run for school board in next years election. Three current board members Melissa Goshorn, Paul Harrison and Joseph Marchio won in 2024 with the backing of Project 1776 PAC, a group that pushes for conservative education policies and parental rights in schools. State stepped in Project 1776 also helped Mary Beth Bozman and Matthew Lankford get elected last year to the Somerset County Board of Education. Lankford serves as school board chair. For the past several months, the board pushed to cut $1 million for librarians from the budget and to remove alleged DEI policies, as first reported by The Baltimore Banner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when the school board sought to get rid of Somerset County Public Schools Superintendent Ava Tasker-Mitchell, who is Black, Wright stepped in. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE The board tried to get rid of Tasker-Mitchell in June and sought to appoint David Bromwell, who is white and a former superintendent in Dorchester County, as interim superintendent. The state reinstated Tasker-Mitchell for 60 days, which ended Aug. 5. But in an Aug. 4 letter to Lankford, Wright denied his request to have Tasker-Mitchell vacate the [Somerset County] property on Aug. 6. The state board passed an emergency regulation that went into effect July 23 that allowed Wright to extend Tasker-Mitchells reinstatement until Jan. 19 or until a hearing occurs. The regulation was approved by the General Assemblys Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is my expectation that Dr. Tasker-Mitchell will report to work on August 6, 2025, and be allowed to exercise her lawful duties as county superintendent, Wright wrote. Wrights letter also warned the school board that violating state law could result in funding being withheld, and noted that the State Board is authorized to initiate removal of board members for willful neglect of duty. Tasker-Mitchells picture remains on the school systems website. A representative with Somerset schools did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. New Mexico's Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency across a significant portion of the state's northern region, citing a surge in violent crime and drug trafficking. The declaration, issued on Wednesday, makes $750,000 available to local governments and tribal communities grappling with the crisis. The emergency measures target Rio Arriba County, an expansive area stretching from Espanola to the Colorado state line, which includes two Native American pueblo communities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local authorities and tribal officials in the county had called for state reinforcements to combat the escalating crime and hardships linked to illicit drug use. This region has long been plagued by opioid addiction and high rates of drug-overdose deaths, with homeless encampments becoming increasingly visible in populated areas in recent years. Governor Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, underscored the severity of the situation in a statement: "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". This latest declaration follows similar actions taken by Governor Lujan Grisham in New Mexico's largest city, Albuquerque. Democratic New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grishams previously declared a state of emergency in Albuquerque due to a significant rise in crime, prompting the deployment of the New Mexico National Guard (Associated Press/Morgan Lee) In April, she declared a state of emergency there due to a significant rise in crime, prompting the deployment of the New Mexico National Guard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in 2023, she suspended the right to carry guns in public parks and playgrounds in Albuquerque, a move made in response to a series of shootings across the state that resulted in child fatalities. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. 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 (AFP via Getty Images) 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 Governor 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The critical audit describes dysfunctional district administration, where key staff members fail to collaborate and important policies are not documented. (Photo by Minnesota Reformer) The Minnesota Department of Education notified Minneapolis Public Schools that its in violation of state and federal law for overidentifying Black students in the category of developmental cognitive disability for the past three years. The notification is part of an annual review process conducted by the state, as required by federal law, to determine whats known as disproportionality in special education. The review compares identification, placement and discipline for students with disabilities across racial groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Disproportionality is particularly concerning for Black families and their children because they are more likely to be identified in disability categories that are socially stigmatized, like developmental cognitive disabilities or emotional behavior disorder. Students placed in these categories are often placed in separate classrooms or schools, which may limit their access to rigorous coursework, electives and other opportunities open to students without disabilities. Under federal law, the district is now required to set aside 15% of its federal special education funds to address the disparities through a process called coordinated early intervention services, or CEIS. Using $1.2 million from its federal special education funds, the districts plan must provide services to students without disabilities to prevent overidentification in the future. The district has selected six elementary schools that account for a substantial part of the disproportionate identification. One position will be added at each school. MDE has also notified the district that its at risk of violations in two other categories. For the past two years, Black students with disabilities in the district have been suspended, expelled or otherwise removed from school for disciplinary issues at more than three times the rate of other students with disabilities. And, in the 2023-24 school year, Black students with disabilities were suspended for more than 10 days more than three times as often as other students with disabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The district will hire one person who will assist nine elementary schools which the district didnt identify with student behavior to reduce disproportionate suspension of Black students with disabilities. Im almost embarrassed that we needed to wait for MDE to tell us we needed to come up with a plan, said Kim Ellison, vice chair, during a board meeting Tuesday. My guess is these numbers arent new. Ellison was on the school board when the district entered voluntary agreements with the federal Office of Civil Rights in 2014 and the state Department of Human Rights in 2018 to address disproportionately high suspension rates for Black students. In 2023, the state began requiring districts to notify the public when they reach mandatory CEIS status, even though MDE itself does not report on its website when districts have been notified of the CEIS violations. MDE notifies districts of disproportionality in special education annually, around March. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The most recent federal data show that in the 2020-21 school year, 31% of Minnesota school districts had been identified for significant disproportionality in special education. This is the third highest of all fifty states, behind only Wyoming and Rhode Island. Audit critical of special education services Separately, the school board on Tuesday discussed an audit that found the district is failing students who need extra help by not providing instruction and support they need to meet grade-level academic standards. The special education audit was conducted by the Council of Great City Schools at the request of Superintendent Lisa Sayles-Adams. The district received the 178-page final report five months ago, but it was shared with just a few district leaders. The report has been circulating among district families and advocates in recent weeks, and the district recently shared the report with the public in advance of a school board discussion. The report focuses on the districts failure to use whats known as a multi-tiered systems of support, or MTSS, a framework commonly used by school districts to identify students who need additional academic or behavior support. When implemented correctly, district staff would review student data regularly to identify students needing support; determine appropriate supports for students; review data on the impact of the supports; and adapt supports as necessary. The review cycle can also highlight district-wide issues that need addressing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The MTSS framework is most effective when all students have access to high-quality instructional practices in regular classrooms. This is known as Tier 1 or core instruction under the MTSS framework. Additional support will be less effective without effective core instruction. Many of the districts classrooms lack high-quality instruction, and regular classroom instruction is often far below grade level standards, according to the report. Many of the districts teachers are in the middle of two years of intensive training to improve how they teach reading, as required by the state law known as the READ Act. The district also adopted a new literacy curriculum for early elementary students. The hope is that the additional training and new curriculum leads to improved academic outcomes. Dr. Liz Keenan, who joined the district at the end of June in the newly created role as associate superintendent of special education and student support services, said the district has recently made some progress in improving academic outcomes for students with disabilities, particularly elementary students. She attributed the success to a new literacy curriculum and teacher training in elementary schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Board Director Greta Callahan challenged this assertion and attributed the improving academic outcomes to class size caps and higher educator pay that started with the collective bargaining agreements Callahan helped negotiate as teachers union president in 2022. There is no similar professional development initiative for mathematics, where student proficiency also lags behind state averages. The district has implemented new math curriculum for elementary, middle and high schools in recent years, however. There is an increased sense of urgency to provide (professional development) for both veteran and new teachers who have insufficient understanding of mathematics content, pedagogical content knowledge and require support to deliver core instruction to all students in inclusive classrooms, the report says. Board Director Joyner Emerick questioned why the audit shows no review of specially designed instruction, which is modification to regular instruction to meet the unique needs of students identified for special education. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Why is it absent? Because it is absent, Keenan said. Keenan said the district lacks a well-defined process around specially designed instruction. In response to the audit, the district has created a new central office position, executive director of MTSS, and is currently trying to hire someone for the role. Board member Lori Norvell expressed concern about whether the district should use MTSS in its schools. She recalled her previous experience as a district math specialist and middle school math teacher working under MTSS. I dont know how its supporting them [students] and not a burden on our adults who are working with our most vulnerable kids, Norvell said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MTSS interventions are not the same as special education and do not replace special education services, but for some students effective MTSS services may prevent the need for special education. Because Minneapolis Public Schools lacks consistent and adequate MTSS services across its schools, many parents sometimes at the behest of teachers request special education evaluations because they view this as the only way to get students the academic and behavioral support they need. The report also identifies district problems with staff professional development. The district doesnt make it mandatory, doesnt commit enough time to it and doesnt differentiate professional development based on educator needs. The district also lacks a structure to support so-called positive behavior intervention for students whose behavior interferes with academics. The absence of behavior support is at least partly to blame for the disproportionate use of suspensions to discipline Black and American Indian students without disabilities, according to the audit. The district has implemented procedural safeguards to limit the use of suspensions for students with disabilities when their disabilities are related to their behavior. Because of this, students with disabilities are suspended at half the rate of students without disabilities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On average, Black and American Indian students without disabilities are around four times as likely as other students to be suspended for one to 10 days. Black students without disabilities are 15 times more likely to be suspended for more than 10 days. The district lacks internal processes to regularly review this data, determine its root causes, and develop and implement plans to reduce these disparities, according to the audit. This applies to discipline data as well as data related to absenteeism and placement of special education students in separate classrooms or schools. The audit shows about a quarter of elementary students with disabilities miss more than 10 days of school. For middle school students with disabilities this rate rises to about a third. By high school, nearly 4 in 10 students with disabilities miss more than 10 days of school each year. An analysis of district data also shows that the district disproportionately assigns students receiving special education services to restrictive settings. Under federal law, special education students are entitled to receive education in the least restrictive environment. Overuse of restrictive placements is a violation of students rights. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The audit also finds that once students are assigned to specialized classrooms or separate schools, there does not appear to be a regular pathway back to more inclusive educational settings. Keenan told the board that the district can improve special education by providing students with disabilities more access to general education classrooms. The audit also describes dysfunctional district administration: Key staff members fail to collaborate, and important policies are not documented. The report includes at least a dozen references to policy and procedure documents that the auditors were unable to review because they were password protected. The auditors said many of the documents should be readily accessible to the public, as well as the districts employees, to bring transparency to policies and procedures. The CEIS notification and audit come amid significant fiscal challenges, which will likely limit the districts ability to respond to the audits findings. The district closed a $75 million budget deficit for the upcoming school year by making significant cuts to central office staff, and continues to rely on its dwindling reserves to balance its budget. In the next budget cycle, the district anticipates needing to cut at least $25 million, a figure that could increase if federal funding is reduced. State Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha is running for the Democratic nomination for the District 2 seat on the Nebraska Public Service Commission in 2026. (Courtesy of DeBoer campaign) OMAHA Term-limited State Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha will look to trade her legislative experience next year for a seat on Nebraskas regulatory-focused Public Service Commission. DeBoer, 51, announced her candidacy this week to seek the Democratic nomination for the Public Service Commissions seat in District 2, which consists of the eastern half of Douglas County. DeBoer was first elected to the Legislature in 2018. She has served the past seven years on the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee, which intersects with the PSC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That committee and lawmakers generally often look at the states regulatory structure and laws around broadband, pipelines, taxi cabs, railroads, 911 and more. The laws the Legislature passes often leave the crafting of related regulations to the Public Service Commission. Theres a real synergy between the work that Ive been doing the last seven years and what happens over at the PSC, DeBoer told the Nebraska Examiner. It seemed like a natural fit, and theres some things I want to continue to work on. PSC priorities DeBoer highlighted her work around 911 emergency communications services and efforts to defend broadband programs. This spring, she passed a bill to modernize the states 911 laws, passed a bill to reduce anti-competition red tape in the transportation industry and prevented cuts to broadband programs after discovering some supposedly unspent funding could not be repurposed. State Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Omaha. Jan. 8, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner) Among DeBoers priorities, she said she has seen an urgent need for improved and modernized broadband, transportation and infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also under Public Service Commission jurisdiction: grain, manufactured homes and recreational vehicles, modular housing units, transmission lines and rights-of-way and water or natural gas utility services. An Omaha native, DeBoer was raised in northwest Omahas Maple Village. She is a 1996 graduate of Hastings College, before going on to earn four advanced degrees: a law degree from the University of Nebraska College of Law, a masters degree in English literature from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a masters degree in theology from Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and a masters degree in religious studies from Syracuse University. DeBoer had also begun work on a doctorate degree on the philosophy of religion prior to becoming a state senator. In the Legislature, DeBoer has served on the Judiciary and Rules Committees during her tenure, including her current role as vice chair of both committees. She chairs the Legislatures Planning Committee that helps the state identify emerging trends, assets and challenges, as well as assess long-term implications of legislative decisions. District 2 partisan makeup Commissioner Christian Mirch, a Republican appointed to the post by Gov. Jim Pillen after a vacancy, represents District 2 on the PSC, which now consists of all Republicans. He succeeded Democratic Commissioner Crystal Rhoades in January 2023 after voters elected Rhoades clerk of the Douglas County District Court. Douglas County is the only county divided for representation on the Nebraska Public Service Commission. This map shows the divide between part of the commissions third district and District 2 in the eastern part of the county. (Courtesy of Legislative Research Office) Mirch, a 2022 legislative candidate, is a former Omaha police officer and former clerk to now-former Nebraska Chief Justice Mike Heavican. He is serving the remaining four years of Rhoades term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mirch told the Examiner this week that he hasnt made a decision about whether to run in 2026 but welcomed DeBoer to the race. Im just focused on ensuring that were doing the best work that we can for our constituents, Mirch said Wednesday. Public Service Commissioners are elected to six-year terms with an annual salary of $75,000. The office is established in the Nebraska Constitution. This will be the first time the Public Service Commissions 2nd District will face voters since the latest redistricting in 2021. The new 2nd District is the only Public Service Commission district to skew blue, according to an Examiner analysis of precinct-level voting patterns in Douglas County. As designed, its voters have heavily favored Democratic candidates for president and Congress and embraced progressive-leaning ballot measures in recent elections. Pledge to fight for constituents This will be the first time DeBoer has run in an officially partisan race. Legislative races are officially nonpartisan, meaning lawmakers dont caucus by political party. Party identity doesnt appear next to those candidates names on the ballot, and the top two candidates advance from the primary election, regardless of party. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement DeBoer said she wants PSC District 2 constituents, some of whom she already represents, to know shell work to ensure efficiency and continue to fight for them and their needs. Ive brought bills to reduce red tape, lower fatalities on our highways and keep our transportation and road construction workers safer, DeBoer said. On the floor, I have stood up against cuts to broadband programs and worked towards infrastructure that moves our state forward. Im running to continue this work on the Public Service Commission. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX HARRISVILLE, W.Va. (WBOY) In honor of National Health Center Week, West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack made a special stop in Ritchie County on Wednesday to sign an official proclamation at the Integrated Health Care Center in Harrisville. The proclamation recognizes and supports the critical role that community health centers play across the Mountain State. These centers, including Integrated Health Care Services, are on the front lines of providing accessible, affordable and high-quality healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Our health centers are just absolutely important, theyre the first line of defense for our healthcare, theyre the place that our citizens go, and its really important for them to be here and be available, West Virginia State Treasurer Larry Pack said. Ive worked with health centers for many, many years, both as a CPA and also as a healthcare provider myself. Ive seen what they do, I know its important. So, anything we can do to encourage them and recognize them thats what were out here today for. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Integrated Health Care Center of West Virginia has also received the achievements from the Health Resources and Services Administration. Health officials announced that they have received four badges, which were the national quality leader of heart health badge, the national quality leader with a silver badge, the advancing health information technology for quality badge and the high value care badge. Former WVU basketball player hosts backpack giveaway event We serve one in three West Virginians, 600,000 West Virginians receive care through a community health center in West Virginia. And were just one of 34 statewide, CEO of Integrated Health Centers of West Virginia Amy Yokum said. So, to have them come here in rural Ritchie County where we serve Ritchie, Pleasant, Doddridge and Wood counties to see what were doing really means a lot. Treasurer Packs proclamation highlights the states continued commitment to supporting these essential providers, ensuring that residents across all regions of the state have access to vital health services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement National Health Center Week is observed each August to raise awareness about the nationwide network of health centers that serve millions of Americans each year. In West Virginia, these centers are a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of patients, offering essential services regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. U.S. Labor Secretary Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, center, stands behind President Donald Trump as he signs executive orders. Oregon legislative Democrats in 2021 sought to draw congressional maps that would guarantee five of the state's six U.S. representatives were Democrats, but instead the maps' first outing resulted in Chavez-DeRemer winning one spot and catapulted the former Happy Valley mayor into the Trump administration. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Oregon is not one of the states currently wrapped in turmoil over congressional districting, which is an activity that usually happens around the beginning, not in the middle, of decades. Texas which started this years remapping battle and California are the current hot spots, but many other states are watching closely and could jump into the fray. Indiana, South Carolina, New Hampshire, Illinois and others have been mentioned as possibilities if the war over district maps really takes off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The explicit object is partisan gain. The Texas redistricting effort got a push when President Donald Trump made clear he wanted to see more U.S. House seats in Texas turned Republican. (The response of Texas Democrats was to stage a quorum-busting walkout, an action with resonance in Oregon.) The California counter may be to try to diminish the number of Republican House seats in that state. Oregon, with its six House seats now set up to the liking of its Democratic majority (only one Republican), is not really a part of this national battle. But it can offer a cautionary tale to places like Texas and California: Be careful when you try wringing all possible partisan advantage out of reapportionment. Most of Oregons neighbors California, Washington and Idaho have redistricting commissions which generally have delivered broadly fair results. This states redistricting approach still is overtly political, run by and through the legislature, which means legislators (collectively) get to design their own districts. In general and in practice, the legislature most often has wound up focusing more on helping incumbents than shaping districts for partisan benefit. One clear indicator of whether a legislature is heavily gerrymandered is if its membership splits on party lines at least reasonably close to the way voters do when they vote on statewide races. The Oregon Legislature is a little more Democratic than the average statewide vote totals, but not by much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The story this decade tilted differently on the federal side the legislature also sets congressional districts when for the first time since 1983, Oregon got an additional congressional district, its sixth. The partisan split in the U.S. House was close after the 2020 census, when the new lines would be drawn, and pressure was on among majority Democrats to ensure that additional seat went to their party changing a House delegation of four Democrats and one Republicans to five Democrats and one Republican. That would not be automatic or easy. The normal Democratic statewide vote for major offices is a majority but usually less than 60%. If the congressional districts happened to be designed so that each party received three, that 50% Republican representation would be a strong over-performance. But Democrats would be over-performing in a four-blue, two-red map, which would be 67% Democratic. For Democrats to reach for a fifth district meant holding 83% of the states House delegation, something no impartial mapmaker might devise. Democratic redistricters did find options that could work, though. They eventually abandoned at least one effort that seemed to give Democrats a strong advantage in what amounted to a new district. But the newly-devised and eventually adopted 5th Congressional District, which includes most of Deschutes and Clackamas counties and pieces of several others, still seemed to offer Democrats an edge and the likelihood of keeping the additional seat out of Republican hands. Or so they thought. The test came with the election of 2022, as incumbent Democratic U.S. Rep. Kurt Schrader ran for another term in his drastically redrawn district and in the first 5th District upset of the year lost his primary to Jamie McLeod-Skinner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, in the fall, McLeod-Skinner lost the general election to Republican Lori Chavez-DeRemer. The district specifically drawn to elect a Democrat wound up instead electing a Republican, who now is secretary of labor in the Trump Administration. The details and the rest of the story do matter, of course. The district as it has evolved seems simply very close. In 2022, Chavez-DeRemer won by only about 2 percentage points. Two years later, she lost to Democrat Janelle Bynum, also by only about 2.5 points. The 5th District has been highly competitive, and could remain so through this decade. While Bynum generally seems to be in a good position for 2026, the nature of her district doesnt allow her to hold a truly secure seat as many in Congress do. Congressional redistricting sometimes has given reason for partisans to be regretful about what they asked for. Oregon has a few things to say about that. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) Steps are being taken to see that the Yoda statue outside the Lollipop Shop in downtown Jonesborough can stay outside. Wednesday morning, Town Administrator Glenn Rosenoff met with the owner of The Lollipop Shop, Jeff Gurley, to help him complete an outdoor use permit. Town of Jonesborough responds to Yoda statue debacle Both Rosenoff and Gurley said they believe the meeting went very well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosenoff confirmed to News Channel 11 over the phone that Gurley will need to contact his insurance company and have the town added as additional insured to cover Yoda for ongoing use. Gurley will then need to have it reviewed and approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. Rosenoff said he wants the public to know that if there is an issue, the town does try to have it resolved. He also said he is confident Yoda will remain once the documentation is taken care of. Gurley said he has received many positive responses from Jonesborough residents and people all over East Tennessee. Gurley also said he has enjoyed working with the Town of Jonesborough and is looking forward to continuing that relationship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For 25 years, the Town of Jonesborough has gone above and beyond to work with, Gurley said. Our historic zoning has gone above and beyond to work with. Never have said no, which is probably rare in small towns and Ive pitched some fun and wacky ideas and they always say yes. So its what makes Jonesborough special. Yoda statue in downtown JBO at center of town controversy The next meeting for the Board of Mayor and Aldermen is Monday. However, it is not confirmed whether Yoda will be added to that agenda or if it will be added for next months 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 WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. The music artist Stormzy said he was "really proud" of the 56 students he has helped financially to study at Cambridge University. Stormzy, whose real name is Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr, launched the Stormzy Scholarship in 2018, which funds black UK students to study at the university. The 32-year-old recently received an honorary Doctorate in Law from Cambridge for his programme. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to the BBC's One Show about the students, he said: "I'm just really proud of them. Hopefully in 10, 20, 30, 40 years I'll hear a story about someone who cured this disease or someone who pioneered in this field, and they're like, actually, they had the Stormzy scholarship all those years ago." Stormzy was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Law at Cambridge University in June [PA Media] So far, 56 students have benefited from full tuition and maintenance support, backed by his #Merky Foundation and HSBC UK. When he launched the scheme, Stormzy said: "It's so important for black students, especially, to be aware that it can 100% be an option to attend a university of this calibre." When explaining why the scholarship programme was important to him, he said: "When I first done this scholarship I didn't want to meet the students. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I didn't want the students to feel like they owed me anything. But to actually sit down to talk to them, hear their stories, and you're like, damn, this is real. "A lot of them say openly they wouldn't have applied without the scholarship being there." Stormzy hopes the students he has supported will go on to make great changes to the world [BBC One Show] Destiny Charles, who recently completed her final year in human, social and political sciences at Cambridge University was supported by a Stormzy scholarship. She said the financial help has been immense: "I've had a lot of difficulties growing up. Finances, immigration, things just weren't in our favour. My mum was unable to work, my dad passed away in 2021." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said the scholarship helped "even the odds, so you can be on an even playing field with everyone else". Not having to worry about money was also huge help for theology student Di'Mario Downer. He said: "I'm the eldest of five and my mum is a single parent, so I think if I didn't have the support, I think a lot of the opportunities I've had in Cambridge would have been closed to me. "It's enabled me to be a normal student and do what I'm here for, which is to study." He said that Stormzy deciding to fund the scholarships showed the artist "cares about community, cares about giving back to where he came from and lifting others up too". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the first recipients of a scholarship, Drew Chateau, is now working as a solicitor. Her family struggled financially and they were often homeless. The idea of studying at Cambridge University had felt "like a place that was not for her". She said of the financial support, "I think, if I didn't have that, I question if I would have even manage to complete my university degree". Stormzy's mother Abigail Akweley said she was particularly proud of her son's honorary degree [BBC One Show] Stormzy's mother Abigail Akweley attended her son's degree ceremony in June. She said this achievement was "the greatest one. [It's] Cambridge." "If you see me crying, it's tears of joy," she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When speaking about the doctorate, Stormzy said: "This is such a full circle from someone who wanted to go to Cambridge, ended up being a musician, and to work with the university, being recognised and honoured in this way, it's like, it's perfect." Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X. More on this story Related internet links Erin evolved into a powerful Category 5 hurricane on Saturday morning with winds of 160 mph, and although it is now a Category 3, it is still posing a significant risk to lives and property. Heavy rain, strong winds and turbulent oceans are slamming parts of the Caribbean, including Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands and Hispaliola. Erin will set its sights next on the East Coast of the United States, with the severity of impacts dependent on its track. Erin is moving over water temperatures that are higher than the historical average not just at the surface but also hundreds of feet deep. These warm waters, combined with very little in the way of dry air and wind shear, have created "near perfect" conditions for rapid intensification, according to AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva. AccuWeather.com "Erin is forecast to slowly curve to the north as it continues to strengthen over the weekend. At this time, the storm is forecast to remain hundreds of miles off the East Coast," DaSilva said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A powerful offshore hurricane can produce massive and dangerous waves well away from its center. "Beaches along the entire East Coast, from Florida to New England and Atlantic Canada, will likely experience rough surf and dangerous rip currents as Erin tracks north and eventually northeast," DaSilva said. AccuWeather.com The strength and position of high pressure over the central Atlantic-along with an approaching dip in the jet stream-will be key factors in determining Erin's track this week. If the high consolidates in size, steering winds from the jet stream would keep Erin well east of the U.S. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A broad area of high pressure to the west could block the steering winds of the jet stream, potentially allowing Erin to drift perilously close to the U.S. East Coast. AccuWeather.com AccuWeather's team of expert meteorologists expects the most likely path of Erin to keep the dangerous eye of the hurricane east of the United States. However, Erin is forecast to grow in size and strength. Its field of influence may become extensive, with tropical storm conditions possibly extending outward from the center by 100 miles or more. AccuWeather.com Protruding coastal areas-such as North Carolina's Outer Banks, Long Island, New York, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts-face a higher risk of direct and potentially severe tropical storm or hurricane conditions than much of the southern Atlantic, mid-Atlantic and northern New England coasts. AccuWeather.com Proximity to the U.S. East Coast will determine the severity of impacts from Florida to Massachusetts and, later, for Atlantic Canada. Even if Erin's center stays east of North Carolina, storm surge of several feet combined with wave action could inundate access roads and force closures. Among the roads that could be inundated or subject to overwash would be portions of NC 12 on the Outer Banks. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the most certain impacts from this hurricane will be dangerous surf, beach erosion, coastal flooding and frequent, strong rip currents along the U.S. East Coast, as well as coastal areas of Bermuda and Atlantic Canada. AccuWeather.com "Be vigilant if you're going to an East Coast beach this week. Be aware of rip current warning signs and only swim in areas with lifeguards on duty," DaSilva said. Offshore wave heights may exceed 50 feet at the height of the storm. Waves of this magnitude can be perilous for large freighters and cruise ships and extremely dangerous for small craft. These massive waves will propagate outward from the center as large swells, reaching coastal areas in the form of powerful breakers. Much of the U.S. East Coast can expect breakers of 5-10 feet in the surf zone. However, in areas of land that extend farther east-such as the Outer Banks, eastern Long Island and Cape Cod-breakers of 10-15 feet are likely. AccuWeather.com In Bermuda, waves buffeting the islands may reach 15-25 feet, depending on the proximity of Erin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As with the U.S. Atlantic coast, conditions in Bermuda will depend heavily on the storm's track and how close it passes. Wind gusts across the islands are forecast to generally range from 40-60 mph, with an AccuWeather Local StormMax of 100 mph expected in the most extreme locations. AccuWeather.com A general 2-4 inches is forecast, but lower wind and rain amounts could occur if Erin's track is more than 100 miles to the west. "People along the East Coast from the Carolinas to New England and Atlantic Canada, as well as Bermuda, should monitor forecast updates closely into this week," DaSilva said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the wake of Erin, two additional tropical waves are expected to move across the Atlantic later in the month, DaSilva noted. "These will be closely monitored as they may follow a similar route to Erin." Do not wait for the next hurricane to strike - better protect your business today. Contact AccuWeather now to schedule your free demo of our Hurricane Warning Service. Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. 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 People who have had COVID-19 are at increased risk of developing certain inflammatory diseases of the airways, such as asthma, hay fever and chronic sinusitis. However, vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 virus appears to reduce the risk, according to a comprehensive epidemiological study led by researchers at Karolinska Institutet. The international research team used an electronic health database in the United States, TriNetX, to investigate the link between COVID-19 and so-called type-2 inflammatory diseases, a group of chronic conditions in which the immune system overreacts to allergens or infections. The researchers compared 973,794 people who had had COVID-19 with 691,270 people who had been vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 virus and 4,388,409 healthy controls with no documented infection or vaccination. Inflammation in the airways The results are presented in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. People who had COVID-19 had a 66% higher risk of developing asthma, a 74% higher risk of chronic sinusitis and a 27% higher risk of hay fever compared with healthy controls. However, no increased risk was seen for the skin disease atopic eczema or for eosinophilic esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus. "Our results suggest that COVID-19 can trigger type-2 inflammation in the airways, but not in other organs," says Philip Curman, a physician and researcher at the Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, who led the research. Vaccination against the virus had the opposite effect. The risk of asthma was 32% lower among vaccinated individuals compared with healthy unvaccinated individuals. The risk of sinusitis and hay fever was also slightly lower. More than twice the risk When people who had had COVID-19 were compared with vaccinated individuals, an even clearer effect was seen. Infected individuals had more than twice the risk of developing asthma or chronic sinusitis and a 40% higher risk of developing hay fever compared with those who had been vaccinated. "It is interesting to see that vaccination not only protects against the infection itself, but also appears to provide good protection against certain respiratory complications," says Philip Curman. The study is retrospective, i.e. based on data that has already been collected. This means that the researchers cannot draw any firm conclusions about causal links. Another limitation is that some infections may have gone undiagnosed, especially if they were detected through self-testing. The research was conducted in close collaboration with the University of Lubeck and the Lubeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology in Germany, the Technical University of Madrid in Spain and Bar-Ilan University in Israel. More information: Henning Olbrich et al, COVID-19 infection raises respiratory type-2 inflammatory disease risk, whereas vaccination is protective, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2025.07.030 Journal information: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) Dairy workers in Salt Lake City could soon be hitting the picket lines as union leaders enter the final day of negotiations with Meadow Gold Dairy. A strike is imminent, a spokesperson with Teamsters Local 222 told ABC4.com Thursday morning. The collective bargaining agreement between Meadow Gold Dairy and the Teamsters expired on May 1, 2025. Since the contracts expiration, negotiations have taken place but have not led to an agreement. Dairy Teamsters hit the picket lines in April of 2025. (Courtesy//Teamsters Local 222) Dairy Teamsters in Salt Lake City hit the picket lines on April 24, 2025, ahead of the contracts expiration. Workers picketed as part of a nationwide demonstration in support of 2,000 workers at the dairy co-op, Dairy Farmers of America, of which Meadow Gold Dairy is a subsidiary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thursday is day three of the current contract negotiations, the spokesperson told ABC4.com. A decision is expected to be made Thursday afternoon. Should an agreement not be reached, Teamsters say the effects will be widespread. This will affect customers. School lunches in Utah will likely not be affected as many have switched to other dairy providers, according to the spokesperson. Dairy Farmers of America, which owns Meadow Gold Dairy, provided the following statement. We continue to be actively engaged in ongoing contract negotiations with International Brotherhood of Teamsters on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that offers competitive wages and benefits. We remain committed to a constructive bargaining process in good faith and to reaching a fair and equitable agreement that best supports our employees, their well-being, and the long-term success of farmer-owners. Dairy Farmers of America This is a developing story. ABC4 will update this post as new information becomes available. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) A student was removed from class Wednesday after district officials said the child brought a weapon to school. According to the School District of Pickens County, the student brought the knife to Crosswell Elementary School and showed the knife to some classmates. District leaders said that no students were in danger and that staff members immediately took the child out of the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The matter is being addressed in accordance with district policy, said Darian Byrd, the chief communications officer for the district. This is a developing story. Stay up to date with 7NEWS on the air and online as more information is made 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 WSPA 7NEWS. A teenager who has secured a spot at the University of Oxford says the way cannabis has helped her mother's condition "opened my eyes to its medical potential". Ariana Howells, 17, from Barry in Wales, who achieved three A*s and one A in A-level biology, chemistry, maths, and English literature, plus 97% in her Extended Project Qualification, will now take her place at St Hilda College to study biochemistry. Her interest in medical cannabis has highlighted the drug's promise, as well as gaps in existing research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said that despite "stigma and strong media opinions", science was about "being open to where the evidence leads". Ariana, who is a scholarship student at Cardiff Sixth Form College, examined the extent THC, a component of cannabis, can "negatively affect sleep architecture" as part of her studies. "There were only seven studies worth citing," Ariana said. "I expected clearer answers, but what I found was a real need for more in-depth, unbiased research. "This is something I want to keep exploring at university and beyond." Her mother lives with Crohn's disease, an incurable chronic inflammatory bowel condition. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ariana believes medical cannabis has played a crucial role in improving her quality of life. Her parents run Cannabis Clinic Cardiff where the teenager has spent the last two years helping with admin and learning about the evolving science behind the plant-based treatment. "Seeing my mum's condition and the way cannabis helped her and the patients who visit our clinic really opened my eyes to its medical potential," she said. "My dad is also a senior psychiatrist, so I've grown up in a household where science and care come together." Outside of school, she has earned gold in the Biology Olympiad and is a competitive ice skater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In preparation for Oxford, Ariana plans to channel her energy into drug development and mental health research, and she is especially interested how medical cannabis could one day transform care. "There's still stigma and strong media opinions," she said. "But science is about asking difficult questions and being open to where the evidence leads." You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Related Links (FOX40.COM) The Sacramento Regional Transit District continues the RydeFreeRT program, providing students, grades TK through 12, with fare-free rides on SacRT buses and light rail. Video Above: Students, parents say free transit program is vital for school commute The RydeFreeRT program has been a game-changer for students and families in the Sacramento region, SacRT General Manager/CEO, Henry Li, said. Students need to renew a card to ride SacRT for free. Heres how Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Students who live or attend school within the SacRT service area are eligible to obtain a RydeFreeRT card all year round. Youth experiencing homelessness or participating in foster care programs can qualify, regardless of residence or school enrollment, SacRT said. Access to reliable, fare-free transportation opens doors for students to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Im proud to support another year of RydeFreeRT, Rick Jennings, SacRT Board Chair and Sacramento City Councilmember, said. Students may use the card for school, work and recreation, even during school breaks and holidays, according to SacRT. Students may obtain their cards through their school and use them from June 1 through June 30, 2026. Students can also visit the SacRT Customer Service and Sales Center on 1225 R Street or any Sacramento Public Library branch to get the RydeFreeRT card. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News. Students across the south are figuring out their next steps after opening their exam results. It's been a big day for college and sixth form students across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Dorset, Oxfordshire and Berkshire. The 18-year-olds have received their A-level, T-level and BTec National results and are now looking to the future. It comes after the head of Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas) predicted a record number of students would get their first choice of university. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Those attending Bournemouth School for Girls were allowed into their classroom at 08:00 BST, after queuing patiently outside the building. Around 10% of this year's cohort are taking a different route to university, instead choosing to do an apprenticeship or take a gap year. Faith Cornish has decided to get a job as a primary school teaching assistant, before looking at higher education options. "I'm going to a different classroom," she said, explaining it had been "a rough two years". "I've really struggled at school. I want to be able to help children who are a bit different." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile her friend Orelia Baker is off to Queens University Belfast to study medicine and wants to specialise in sexual and womens' health, she said: "It's a field I've always been interested in and so important." In Hampshire, students at Arnewood Sixth Form, New Milton were celebrating. A school spokesperson said 84% of students secured places at their first-choice university, or higher education destination. Head of sixth form, Mark Colman, said: "These results reflect more than just academic success. Our students leave Arnewood as confident, compassionate young people ready to make their mark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The impact our Year 12 and 13s have across the wider school is something we're hugely proud of." Reading College said 28% of its students gained an A* or A grade in their A levels, but a lot of students were pursuing different choices. Faculty director, Dan Neil, said: "We are seeing a higher proportion of learners going onto apprenticeships. "Our own apprenticeship faculty is really valuable, sometimes students needs a bit of a break. I have some students today who are deferring their university places to go travelling for a year." Tawana Mandebvu, 19, said she is heading to Oxford Brookes University to study midwifery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It feels like all the hard work paid off. I'm happy I studied as much as I did and put in all my efforts. Hard efforts pay off," she explained. Ofqual stats for grades A and A* revealed Data from Ofqual revealed the percentage of A level entries graded A or A* across each county in comparison to 2024. Subjects with grades awarded to more than 2,500 students were the only ones to be included in the data. In Hampshire, 29.4% of grades awarded were an A or A*, compared to 28.8% last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Isle of Wight had a slightly bigger increase, with 2025 figures showing 17.6% compared to last year's 15.9%. However, it still has the lowest figure in England. In Dorset, the number dropped to 24.8% after reaching 27.1% in 2024. Meanwhile, Oxfordshire figures remained steady at 33.5%, compared to 33.4% last year. Berkshire figures showed a slight increase of 32.7% in 2025, compared to 31.3% the previous year. The Isle of Wight may have the lowest percentage of A* and A grades for A levels, but students at Cowes Sixth Form College achieved high scores. Alfie Glover secured a place studying engineering at the University of Cambridge, after achieving three A*s and one A. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile Blake Poerscout-Edgerton achieved three A*s, one A and gained an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), securing himself a scholarship at Emory University in Atlanta, USA. Principal Rachel Kitley said: "We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our sixth form students, they have worked hard and today celebrate their much-deserved success." Alfie Glover (left) is off to the University of Cambridge to continue his studies, while Blake Poerscout-Edgerton (right) gained a scholarship in the USA [Cowes Sixth Form] Results Day coming up? Weve got your back! Oxford Brookes is ready to support you through #Clearing2025. Its not a last resortits your fresh start. Clearing Open Day: Sat 16 Aughttps://t.co/Aclg1HtYzO #ResultsDay #OxfordBrookes #UniThroughClearing Oxford Brookes University (@oxford_brookes) August 8, 2025 There were lots of happy faces at Bartholomew School in Witney, Oxfordshire, after students gained top grades. Director of sixth form, Helen von der Osten said: "We are delighted these results have enabled so many to secure their university places, apprenticeships, and other exciting next steps." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Twins Florence and Alice Bolton were home schooled until they joined Headington Rye Oxford for sixth form. They are both now headed to the University of Cambridge, Florence to study Anglo Saxon, Norse and Celtic at St John's College and Alice to study music at Emmanuel College. Florence said: "I have really enjoyed my time here I loved home education too so I feel like I have had the best of both worlds." Alice added: "We would have never been able to come to the school if we didn't have the generous bursaries that we got. It's meant we have had a very happy time the last two years." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. More on this story (The Center Square) A new report by a Florida taxpayers group focuses on the importance of school principals and the factors that contribute to strong leadership. Having an effective principal has the same impact as a student having an additional three months of learning per year, says the report by Florida TaxWatch. Effective principals can transform mediocre schools into exceptional schools with high student achievement levels, and these principals continue to gain the attention of lawmakers and policymakers. Last May, Florida TaxWatch a nonprofit taxpayer research institute billing itself an independent, nonpartisan government watchdog hosted a roundtable discussion of the winners of the groups Principal Leadership Award. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of the most important challenges for principals is recruiting good teachers, the report concludes. With fewer young professionals choosing to pursue teaching degrees, a dwindling talent pool also threatens the education industry, the report said. One principal discussed the value of building a team of trusted individuals they can lean on to help in areas that are lacking or facing staffing shortages. Supporting teachers after they are hired is also important for principals, as is flexibility in allowing teachers to earn extra income by taking on second jobs. In 2024, Florida ranked near the bottom among states in average teacher pay and teacher vacancy rates were 64%, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teacher salaries and compensation continue to be major considerations for teachers choice of workplace but often are beyond the principals ability to directly control, the TaxWatch report said. Providing opportunities for teachers to make extra money through additional roles within school functions or connecting them with outside organizations that have working hours outside of traditional school schedules go a long way to help close some of the financial barriers for attracting, developing and retaining teachers. Good working conditions are also crucial to retaining teachers, the report states. That includes giving teachers autonomy in the classroom. Not only does this build a positive and incentivizing environment for the staff, but it also improves classroom instruction and better understanding of students and builds trust within the school, TaxWatch said. It is also crucial for principals to avoid spending too much time behind their office desks. To be successful, a principal should be where the action is, which is where the students are in the classrooms, on the playground, in the cafeteria, and around the campus, the report said, Only by observing teachers and students in their element can one truly understand their experiences, feel their existence, and know the goings-on of the entire school. And there is no substitute for that knowledge. A new report will raise awareness of Jersey's "unique and relatively unseen" maerl habitats, a study group has said. Societe Jersiaise said maerl was a type of slow-growing, calcified red seaweed that forms complex seabed structures, providing vital habitat for a wide range of marine life. It said the project, supported by a grant from the Jersey Community Foundation with funds from the Channel Islands lottery, would "shed light" on the marine habitat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rebecca J Bailhache, the society's CEO, said members were "delighted" to help support projects which were considered of benefit to the island. The study will help guide future research, monitoring and conservation efforts [BBC] The project is managed by the society in partnership with the Government of Jersey's environment department. Societe Jersiaise said the final publication was designed to raise awareness and appreciation of the "extraordinary habitat". "By identifying key knowledge gaps, it will help guide future research, monitoring, and conservation efforts," it said. "The project highlights the value of collaboration between scientific, governmental and community organisations in advancing marine conservation and ensuring Jersey's natural heritage is better understood and protected." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. More on this story Related internet links The Subway restaurant at 100 E. Fleming Drive in Morganton has reopened under new ownership after closing abruptly in late June, The News Herald reported. The reopening comes after Penny Hoover, president of Morganton Munch Company Inc., acquired the location. Hoover plans to reopen two other Subway locations in Morganton that were also closed. PAST COVERAGE: Morganton Subways owner faces charges for unpaid wages to employees Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We wanted to do whatever we could to get those workers paid as quickly as possible, said Assistant District Attorney Mitch Walker. The Morganton Subway locations closed without notice in late June, and reports of unpaid wages began in early July. The charges against Parish were dropped after employees were compensated with money orders, according to Walker. Penny Hoover, the new owner, also owns multiple Subway locations in the Mooresville and Denver areas under the corporation name Sandwich Artists Inc. VIDEO: Morganton Subways closed; employees demand payment for work (WBRE/WYOU) A Luzerne County attorney whose conviction in a deadly DUI crash was overturned may now return to court. The Carbon County District Attorney has petitioned the Superior Court to reconsider its ruling in the case of 73-year-old Joseph Persico. Man charged with mass casualty threat to Little League World Series The District Attorney wants the full court, rather than just a panel, to hear the case again. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Persico was serving up to 6 years in prison for a wrong-way crash that killed Paul Gerrity of Scranton in 2018. His conviction was overturned last month when the Superior Court ruled that Persicos rights were violated and the blood drawing that determined he was under the influence was taken without probable cause. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to 28/22 News. A loyalty card from a local supermarket has helped Ocoee police solve a cold case that remained unsolved for over a decade. Lloyd P. Williams was 89 years old when he disappeared in 2013. His son, Lancelot Williams, traveled from Jamaica to Central Florida searching for answers, but none came for years. At the time, he said, So we just pray and keep our fingers crossed that it will end the way we want it to end. He described the emotional toll of not knowing his fathers fate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At night, you keep thinking where is he. Its a mystery. No trace, he said back then. That changed in 2025 thanks to a break in the case that came from an unexpected clue: a Winn-Dixie loyalty card. Retired Ocoee police detective Michelle Grogan had been working to identify human remains discovered along Floridas turnpike back in 2016. At the time, there were no leads. With no identification and no match in national databases, investigators believed the person may have been homeless. But when they took a closer look at a set of keys found with the remains, they noticed a Winn-Dixie loyalty card on the key ring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That card would be the key to unlocking the mystery. After 18 months, the Winn-Dixie corporation provided a name and date of birth tied to the loyalty card member, Grogan said. We were able to match that information to the missing person report filed with the Orange County Sheriffs Office in 2013. The remains were confirmed to be those of Lloyd Williams. While the identification brings closure to the family, the case remains far from solved. One theory is that Williams home may have been burglarized, but the exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unknown. The medical examiner has officially labeled his death as suspicious. Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. Mango ice pops from China's Guangxi offer refreshing tropical treat Xinhua) 08:30, August 14, 2025 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Professor Laura Carstensen. Credit: Andrew Brodhead/Stanford University As 100-year lives become increasingly common, Stanford psychologist Laura Carstensen is working to understand the implicationsand to ensure we can make the most of our extra years. The following are the researchers' own words, edited and condensed for clarity. I got interested in aging following a car accident I was in when I was 21 years old. I broke 20-plus bones, and I ended up in an orthopedic ward for four months. It turns out, orthopedic wards have a bimodal age distribution with young people recovering from motor vehicle accidents and older people healing from broken hips and knees or other surgeries. After I recovered from the worst of it, the nurses decided to give me an assignment to talk with the older patients so they would stay alert and orientedin hindsight, the nurses were trying to help me. I got to know a lot of older women, and at 21, I found we had so much in common: All of us had been lifted out of our worlds and were completely dependent on other people. A shared experience emerged from the struggles we faced together. But when it came to the care we received, there was a huge disparity. I started to see that because of my age, I was treated differently. To the doctors, my youth signaled optimismI had an entire future ahead of meand during rounds, they would discuss different ways to help my recovery. But the older women in my ward were brushed aside. It made me wonder about aging, and specifically, how much of aging, which is a biological process, is also shaped by the social world. When I left the hospital, I wanted to examine this question. I didn't know what discipline would provide me with the best answers, and after taking courses in different disciplines, I settled on psychology. Psychology is a discipline that considers individuals, at the cellular level, all the way to larger, societal influences that shape and give meaning to who we are. I trained as a clinical psychologist, and for many years I saw patients at a clinic established to serve older adults with limited resources. I came to know hundreds of people in ways I never would have as part of a research study. What impressed me the most was their emotional resilience. I would leave in the evenings feeling inspired, and I wanted to understand better how older people facing enormous challenges displayed such remarkable emotional strength. What I discovered in my research was consistent with my clinical observations: Study after study suggested that emotionally, older people fare much better than middle-aged and younger people. At this point, there is general consensus in the field that emotional well-being improves with age. In my classes at Stanford, my favorite talk is on emotion and aging. I tell students these are not the best years of their lives. Young people don't know that. Instead, they are told the opposite. But according to my research, that's just not true. Late adolescence and early adulthood are the worst years for emotional well-being, and it gets better over time. The theory my students and I formulated and tested over the years has to do with future time horizonsthe perception of how much time is left in life. Humans are unique in our ability to appreciate mortality throughout our lives. We're constantly taking account of where we are in our life course. When time horizons are vast and open-ended, people focus on learning and exploration over emotional well-being and satisfaction. But this can be hard because learning, by definition, is difficult. It's a process of trial and error. We fail, and with each failure, we learn. As a species, we are pretty good at adaptation. But what we are really bad at is ambiguity. It's hard emotionally when you do not know what is going to happen: Will I meet my soulmate? Will I get into the university I want to go to? What if I don't get the job I want? What if these things don't happen? When time horizons are vast like this, there is a lot of uncertainty. Starting from the mid-20s, people gradually experience fewer negative emotions as they get older. While there's no change in the frequency or intensity of positive emotions, emotional balance improves with age. In one study, when we induced a sense of endings in younger people, they experienced a mix of emotions that did not make them less happy. We also identified a phenomenon where people attend more to positive information than negative information as they grow older. For years in social psychology, people believed that humans look at negative stimuli more than positive. But we started looking at it in middle-aged and older people, and found that the effect is gone by middle age. By old age, it's flipped: Positive stimuli are what people attend to more than negative stimuli. Emotionally speaking, life gets better as we get older, and it seems to have a lot to do with how we view future time. When we're reminded of our mortality, we shift cognitively to look on the bright side. As life expectancies approach the century mark, my hope is that we come to appreciate each stage of life while we're infrom what's good to what's challengingand that we can look forward to being older and more emotionally balanced. Just like no day in life is perfect, no stage in life is perfect either. If we can come to appreciate the good things about the stage we're in, we'll be happier about all the stages. When you learn that older people are more pro-social, more likely to give to others, more emotionally even-handed, more likely to forgive, have fewer negative emotions, are slower to anger, and have accumulated knowledge and experience, it's an incredible resource that we've never had in human history. Appreciating longevity has never been more important. For most of human evolution, the average life expectancy was between 18 and 20 years old. Thanks to advances in science, technology, and culture, we've created a world where people live to be much longer. In the United States and beyond, 100-year lives are increasingly common. Old age is new, and we've never had such age diversity in human history. That poses a whole set of challenges that people 200 years ago didn't have to think about. But the problem is that people are born into a world that was largely built by and for young people, and that model doesn't work for century-long lives. We need a "New Map of Life." Longevity is going to change almost all aspects of our lives. It will change education, how we work, when we get married, financial planning and security, when we retire, how many jobs we go in and out of, where we live, our health, and our happiness. We need to very quickly create an environment that supports longer life spans. That's the goal of the Center on Longevity, a research center I co-founded with Tom Rando and a number of other faculty at Stanford in 2007 to make the most of the 100-year opportunity we've been given. But we need to start rethinking how we approach everything from health and well-being to education, work, retirement, and financial planning. We need research and technology more than ever to help us be healthy and engaged productively for decades longer than we have ever lived in the past. Without that, we will actually have a crisis on our hands. What we try to do is ensure that a longer lifespan is a good thing and not a bad thing. My hope is that we come to appreciate each stage in life while we're in it, and that we can look forward to growing up and growing old in an age-diversified world. Mississippi can continue to enforce a state law that seeks to protect children online by requiring age verification on social media while litigation on the issue plays out in court, the Supreme Court said on Thursday. In an unsigned order, justices upheld a lower court ruling that sided with Mississippi and allowed the state law known as the Walker Montgomery Protecting Children Online Act" to take effect temporarily, as judges determine the laws constitutionality in court. Until a federal appeals court issues a final ruling, anyone under the age of 18 seeking to use Instagram, Reddit, Pinterest, Snapchat, Facebook, YouTube, or X in the state will need to provide parental consent in order to use the social media platforms. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As is typical in such orders the justices did not provide a reason for siding with Mississippi. Justice Brett Kavanaugh did issue a short concurring opinion, saying the social media companies failed to show that allowing the law to take effect would cause immediate harm. The Supreme Court will temporarily allow a Mississippi law aimed at protecting children on social media platforms to go into effect (Getty Images) Kavanaugh contended that he does believe the social media companies, represented by NetChoice LLC., a trade association that advocates for free speech, would likely succeed in their argument that the law violates the First Amendment down the road. The law, enacted by the governor last April, requires social media platforms to obtain parental consent for minors wishing to use their services or face civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation as well as potential criminal penalties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The law does not apply to websites devoted to news, sports, commerce, or video games. It also exempts email and direct messages. Approximately 12 other states have passed similar laws, seeking to protect children from data collection, online predators, and other social media harms. The debate over how to protect minors from harmful online content or behavior has been hotly contested over the last few years. More lawsuits have been filed at the Supreme Court in recent years, asking the justices to determine at what point protection laws infringe on the First Amendment. Generally, the First Amendment protects a wide breadth of speech, with few exceptions. Court battles over social media censorship and minors access to websites have become more common (Middle East Images/AFP via Getty) NetChoice sued the Mississippi Attorney General on behalf of nine social media platforms belonging to its association members, claiming the law violated the First Amendment by infringing on minors right to speak without parental control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NetChoice also argued that many of the platforms already have their own suite of parental controls to protect minors from certain services and allow parents to make their own decisions. The states Attorney General Lynn Fitch argued that the Mississippi law is designed similarly to protect young people from activists not protected by the First Amendment such as sexual or physical abuse, extortion, incitement to suicide, and more. This past year, the court upheld a Texas law that requires people visiting sexually explicit websites to verify their age. The law was enacted, in part, to protect minors from viewing pornographic content. While the Supreme Courts ruling is temporary, the justices could return to the issue if the Mississippi Attorney General or NetChoice appeals to the high court. But the lower court, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, must make a final ruling first. Paul Taske, the co-director of the NetChoice Litigation Center, said in a statement, Although were disappointed with the Courts decision, Justice Kavanaughs concurrence makes clear that NetChoice will ultimately succeed in defending the First Amendmentnot just in this case but across all NetChoices ID-for-Speech lawsuits. This is merely an unfortunate procedural delay. The former Kentucky county clerk who was jailed 10 years ago for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples is now asking the Supreme Court to review its landmark decision that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, with her attorney telling Fox News Digital theres a "good chance" it will end up on their docket. Kim Davis, a devout Christian, made national headlines in 2015 when she refused to sign the marriage licenses of same-sex couples over her religious belief that marriage is between one man and one woman. Davis' lawyer, Mat Staver, is helping her appeal a ruling that she must pay $360,000 in legal fees and expenses to plaintiffs David Ermold and David Moore. "The First Amendment should be an absolute defense to Kim Davis. And secondly, we're asking the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell, the 2015 decision that ultimately caused this problem in the first place," Staver told Fox News Digital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "For them not to review the matter I think is terrible for Kim Davis and also terrible for the country because they've damaged the Constitution and only the court can fix it," Staver added. Decade After Landmark Ruling, Republican Support For Same-sex Marriage Craters Former Kentucky county clerk Kim Davis speaks during an interview on Fox News Channel on Sept. 23, 2015. Staver also told Fox News Digital, "I think we have a good chance at having the Supreme Court take up this case because you have three of the justices still on the bench that were part of the four dissenters in 2015" in Obergefell v. Hodges, "including the chief justice, who gave a very strong dissent." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's only two justices still on the bench that were on the bench in the majority in 2015, and that would be Kagan and Sotomayor," Staver added. "This is the case with the most compelling facts that can challenge and overturn Obergefell." The case, if it reaches the Supreme Court, would be heard by Justices Clarence Thomas, John Roberts and Samuel Alito, who dissented to Obergefell v. Hodges; Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagen, who affirmed the decision; and four newly appointed justices. In March, a three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit wrote in a ruling that "As Davis sees it, issuing Plaintiffs a marriage license would have violated her own constitutionally protected religious beliefs; thus, she asserts, she cannot be held liable. We disagree." "Davis cannot raise a Free Exercise Clause defense because she is being held liable for state action, which the First Amendment does not protect," the ruling added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Revisiting Justice Scalias Same-sex Marriage Dissent: Prophetic Or Inflammatory? Rowan County Deputy Clerk Nathan Davis, right, informs David Moore, center, and David Ermold that he won't issue them a marriage license on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2015 at the Rowan County Clerk's office in Morehead, Kentucky. A petition for writ of certiorari filed last month on behalf of Davis is appealing that decision. "Obergefell was wrong when it was decided and it is wrong today because it was grounded entirely on the legal fiction of substantive due process," the filing said. "Overturning Obergefell would not undo any marriage licenses in effect at the time. All marriage licenses, including those between same-sex couples, would continue to be recognized. They would be grandfathered. Going forward, marriage would return to the states as it was prior to Obergefell. It would be up to each state to define marriage," it added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement William Powell, an attorney representing Ermold and Moore, and a Senior Counsel with the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, told Fox News Digital that "We are confident the Supreme Court, like the court of appeals, will conclude that Davis's arguments do not merit further attention. Attorney Mat Staver told Fox News Digital he believes there is a "good chance" the Supreme Court will revisit its landmark Obergefell v. Hodges decision. "Marriage equality is settled law," he added. Fox News Digitals Maria Lencki contributed to this report. Original article source: Supreme Court has 'good chance' of hearing Kim Davis' case urging same-sex marriage be overturned: lawyer A view from outside a Chesterfield County School. (Photo courtesy of Chesterfield County Public Schools) Some Virginia classrooms are embracing top-tier teaching tools but others are barely touching them. A new statewide survey finds wide disparities in how English and math teachers use high-quality instructional materials (HQIM), underscoring the challenge of lifting student performance. With a 23% response rate, the survey by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy found that 37% of Virginias K-12 English teachers are partially using materials that partially align with high-quality, while only 10% of math teachers report doing so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement HQIM, used in states like Florida and Texas, is identified through a rigorous process to ensure alignment with state learning goals and research-based practices. The study comes as Virginia continues efforts to improve assessment testing. Chad Stewart, policy analyst for the Virginia Education Association, told The Mercury that the states involvement would be crucial because teachers including VEA members want access to the best curricular materials. Theyre in the classroom and they cant do all the work to sift through the 10 curricular textbook options out there and identify what is the best material and the best lesson plans, said Stewart. They need a little bit of flexibility to differentiate for their kids in the context of what theyre teaching; but most teachers do want handed to them some high-quality templates to build off of for their lesson plan. Last year, K-12 English and math teachers participated in an anonymous Teacher Survey of Curriculum Use to determine what materials are in use and how they are applied in the classroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 10- to 15-minute online survey, conducted from Sept. 5 to Oct. 16, 2024, was presented to the Board of Education on July 30. The survey revealed stark differences within districts. In Fairfax County, 88% of English teachers reported using HQIM, compared to just 2% of math teachers. In Virginia Beach, 31% of English teachers use HQIM versus 34% of math teachers. During the 2025 General Assembly session, lawmakers proposed ways to help teachers gain better access to these resources. In April, they passed House Bill 2777, which updates the review process to ensure HQIM aligns with state assessments and teaching strategies, ultimately creating a state-vetted list of such materials. Dr. David Steiner, founder of the Institute for Education Policy at Johns Hopkins, recommended that Virginia provide professional development, which he said is crucial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The implementation of HQIM is useless if teachers dont use it, Steiner said. He added that research suggests that teachers resist HQIM because they dont believe their students can use the materials, because they themselves are nervous about the level of their knowledge in the subjects, and therefore they water them down, they leave them on the shelf. Steiner also noted that when students are not proficient in English and math, as is the case in Virginia, additional support is needed for students with special needs and English Language Learners. He called teachers the best ambassadors for promoting HQIM. It is important that principals and teachers get exposure to why they should be using this material, the persuasive stories of its use, the success stories, Steiner said. Its teacher to teacher, principal to principal, superintendent to superintendent. We cannot just think that we can parachute this stuff in and it will somehow blossom and be used effectively. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Board of Education President Grace Creasey, an appointee of Gov. Glenn Youngkin, said the state can offer the tools, but one challenge is maintaining continuous professional learning for teachers and instructional leaders. Teacher evaluators, including principals, should also know and understand the curriculum being delivered in every classroom, Creasey said, deeply enough so that theyre not simply going into a classroom to evaluate a teacher on their ability to manage their classroom. She said that while classroom management is essential to a teachers evaluation, another critical component is how effectively they teach content. We are very intent on ensuring teachers know how to deliver their content, Creasey said, and thats something that I think weve got to start with in our classroom, our building principals, assistant principals and evaluators on before we can move into really aiming at continuous professional learning at our teachers. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Most Germans appear sceptical about the summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin set to take place in Alaska on Friday, according to a new survey by public broadcaster ZDF. Only 13% of respondents believe Trump will be able to broker a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine at the meeting, while 84% are sceptical about such an outcome. Just 14% of Germans think Putin has a genuine interest in a lasting ceasefire, while 82% do not believe he does. The survey also found that nine out of 10 respondents consider direct Ukrainian involvement in talks essential for a lasting ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germans are divided over potential territorial concessions by Ukraine to Russia. About 42% support Ukraine giving up part of the territory currently occupied by Russia if it meant an end to the war, while 45% believe Ukraine should continue fighting to reclaim the occupied regions. The survey polled 1,370 randomly selected eligible voters by phone and online between August 11 and August 13. After 100 days in office, Germany's conservative-led coalition government is widely seen as divided, according to a new survey by public broadcaster ZDF. The coalition comprises Chancellor Friedrich Merz's conservative Christian Democrats (CDU), their Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), and the centre-left Social Democrats (SDP). The poll found that only 32% of respondents believe the coalition parties are cooperating well, while 61% disagree, including 41% of CDU/CSU supporters and 47% of SPD voters. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In early May, just days before the new government took office, a slim majority of 51% had expected good cooperation within the coalition. The survey polled 1,370 randomly selected eligible voters by phone and online between August 11 and 13, 2025. If federal elections were held now, the coalition would not hold a majority, according to the poll. Respondents indicated they would vote 27% for the CDU/CSU, unchanged from the previous survey, and 15% for the SPD, also steady. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) would be the second-strongest party at 23%, down one point. The Greens would rise to 12%, up one point, and The Left would hold 11%. Both the populist Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) and the pro-business Free Democrats (FDP) would again fall short of the 5% threshold required to enter the Bundestag, or lower house of parliament, each polling at 3%. YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) Susanne M. Miller passed away peacefully on Monday, August 11, 2025, At St. Elizabeth in Youngstown. She was born on May 21, 1957, in Youngstown, a daughter of late Samuel Louis and Rose Luklan Coniglio. Find obituaries from your high school Susanne graduated from Canfield High School in 1975, she attended Youngstown State University receiving a B.S. in Business Admin. in 1979, Youngstown State University M.A. in 1999, Youngstown State University M.S. in Ed. 2006. Susanne worked initially as a copy editor in Advertising in the Youngstown and Sharon areas, then moved to editing the English Journal at YSU and finally, as an academic advisor at the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services Y.S.U. from 1998 to her retirement in 2022. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She enjoyed sailing, going on cruises and traveling to the outer banks with her husband. Susanne leaves behind her Loving husband, Thomas M. Miller whom she married April 29, 1989; sisters, Atty. Shirley J. Coniglio (David Walski) and Sandra (Randy) Keim and niece, Jozi (Anthony) McCormick; several cousins, friends and her dogs, Maddie and Molly. Friends may call from 11:00 a.m. 12:50 p.m., Friday, August 15, at the Fox Funeral Home, Boardman, followed by a funeral service at the funeral home at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Rev David Joachim. The family requests memorial gifts be made to the Susanne Miller Memorial Scholarship at the Youngstown State University Foundation, 655 Wick Avenue, Youngstown, OH 44502. You can also give online at ysufoundation.org by clicking Give Now and following the prompts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arrangements have been entrusted to the Fox Funeral Home, 4700 Market Street in Boardman. Family and friends of Susanne may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to give condolences to the Miller family. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Susanne M (Coniglio) Miller, please visit our floral store. A television tribute will air Friday, August 15 at the following approximate times: 7:10 a.m. on FOX, 12:22 p.m. on WKBN, 5:08 p.m. on MyYTV and 7:27 p.m. on WYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com. MEMPHIS, Tenn. A man accused of shooting a man to death and injuring a woman two months ago at a tire shop in Southeast Memphis is now behind bars. Tony Curry, 29, is charged with first-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder. It all started on June 15, when police say they were called to Tires Llantas in the 4600 block of Winchester Road. Officers say a man was found at the scene suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, and a woman was found shot in her legs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman was taken to Regional One Hospital for treatment. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. He was identified by police as Shanton Cobb. Man charged in quadruple murder of a family due in court While at the hospital, the female victim told police that earlier that day, Cobb was involved in a disturbance with a woman and that a report was on file. The female victim said that while the woman was arguing with Cobb, she pepper-sprayed him with pepper spray. That is when Cobb was accused of pushing the woman to the ground. A few hours later, a man arrived at the tire shop asking for the owner, the female victim said. She then says she pointed to Cobb and that the two men began to talk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The female victim says the man pulled out a gun and shot Cobb several times before turning and shooting her. West Memphis Police officers fired amid sexual misconduct investigation During the investigation, investigators determined that the male suspect was the son of the woman who pepper-sprayed Cobb. He was identified as Tony Curry. The victim was also able to identify him in a six-person photo lineup as the man who shot her and Cobb. Curry was booked into jail on Wednesday. His bond has yet to be set, but he is due in court on Friday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. SANDY, Utah (ABC4) A suspect is in custody after allegedly falsifying diplomatic license plates on a stolen vehicle. On Aug. 2, 2025, staff from a Larry H. Miller car dealership in Sandy sold a vehicle worth over $60,000 to a man who paid using an IRS check which was found to be fraudulent by Zions Bank. James Allan Sorensen, 41, has been arrested and booked on multiple felony charges for allegedly using the falsified check to purchase a gold 2022 Land Rover. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The companys finance director told police that dealerships retain the title of vehicles until payment goes through. Shortly after the check was flagged, Larry H. Miller staff contacted police, reporting that they had contacted Sorensen requesting to meet with him at the bank. Charging documents say he refused. Missing 72-year-old woman found dead in Salt Lake City During the investigation into Sorensen, officers with the Sandy Police Department found an open case lead by the Diplomatic Security Service against Sorensen that suspected him of using a fictitious diplomatic license plate on a Range Rover. On Aug. 18, officers were able to track Sorensens vehicle to an intersection in Sandy near 11400 South and State Street using a license plate reader database. Detectives found a recent captures at the aforementioned location that showed a Range Rover with license plates that displayed an eagle emblem on the left side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police found another capture near 10500 South State Street that clearly displayed DIPLOMAT along the top of the license plate, charging documents say. Agents with DSS were able to confirm the plates to be fictitious as there were no ambassadors in Utah during the time of Sorensens license plate captures. Detectives with Sandy PD were able to identify the plate to be false due to the absence of a large seal next to the main characters of the plate. Sorensen is being held without bail in the Salt Lake County Jail. He is facing multiple felony charges including receiving or transferring a stolen vehicle, issuing a bad check, and forgery. Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A Milwaukee man charged in a deadly head-on crash last month that killed two people will have the chance to plead his case before a jury. Circuit Court Judge Michelle A. Havas on Aug. 14 ruled police and prosecutors had enough probable cause to establish that a felony was committed, and that Darius Boldery was likely the one who committed it. She ordered the case against Boldery be bound over for trial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Milwaukee man faces trial in north side crash that killed 69-year-old woman What are the charges against Darius Boldery? Boldery, 19, faces two counts each of first-degree reckless homicide and fleeing or eluding an officer that resulted in someone else's death. The charges stemmed from a high-speed April 30 chase that ended with a nearly head-on crash that killed his two passengers and injured three others. Those killed were Xavier G. Valdovino-Torres, 18, and Keon Carter, 17. Both lived in Milwaukee. Boldery also is charged with three counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety. He pleaded guilty to all the charges through his attorney, Abigail Ruckdashel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Several Milwaukee County suburbs are testing new measures to combat reckless driving Witnesses say people in the fleeing car were seen casing parked vehicles Milwaukee police were dispatched April 30 to Newberry Boulevard and Hackett Avenue on a report about a suspicious vehicle. The caller said they saw the occupants of a silver hatchback reaching out of the vehicle's windows and pulling on the door handles of parked vehicles as it drove by, according to a criminal complaint. Officers later found a vehicle matching the description the caller gave them. It was heading north on Maryland Avenue, near the intersection with Linnwood Avenue. The officer called for backup after noticing three people were inside the vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer turned on his lights to pull over the vehicle near Capitol Drive and Green Bay Road when his backup got to within sight. The vehicle pulled over momentarily, but then peeled off, and began "traveling the wrong way on a one-way lane," according to the complaint. A chase ensued. The vehicle led police north in the southbound lanes. The fleeing car was "traveling at a very high rate of speed" until it collided "head on into a Ford Edge that was traveling southbound in the southbound lanes," the complaint says. More: Court Watch program aims to track reckless driving cases moving through Milwaukee courts Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An officer spotted Boldery and a front passenger stuck inside the vehicle. Both were screaming for help. A third person in the back of the vehicle "had no pulse and was not breathing at the time," the complaint says. All three occupants were taken to a hospital. Police also found an American Tactical .22 caliber rifle and an Anderson Manufacturing .223 caliber AR-15 style rifle in the car. The front passenger and rear passenger later died from their injuries. How fast did the fleeing car travel? A records check on the vehicle that was pursued showed it was registered to Boldery. He had a suspended probationary license. Investigators also downloaded the engine control unit data from the striking vehicle. The complaint says "this data indicated that 3 seconds prior to the collision, the Impreza was traveling 89 miles per hour and the accelerator was 100% activated." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the time of the collision, the data says the vehicle "was traveling 93 miles per hour." More: Whitefish Bay elementary school official charged in fatal drunk driving crash in West Bend How safe are Milwaukee roads and highways? Thirty seven people have died in Milwaukee County in motor vehicle crashes in 2025 as of Aug. 10, the most updated data provided Aug. 14 by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Ninety-four traffic deaths occurred on Wisconsin roads and highways in all of 2024. What's next for Darius Boldery? Boldery is scheduled to return to court Sept. 25 for a scheduling conference. He remained in the Milwaukee County Jail after failing to post the $200,000 cash bond needed for his release. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Suspect in April crash that killed 2 Milwaukee teens will go on trial The suspect in the murders of two hikers in an Arkansas state park is now being investigated for possible links to similar murders in other states. Andrew James McGann, a 28-year-old former elementary school teacher, pleaded not guilty on Thursday to two counts of capital murder in the July 26 stabbing deaths of Clinton David Brink, 43, and Cristen Amanda Brink, 41, at Devils Den State Park in Washington County, Arkansas. Authorities are now investigating McGann for possible connections to unsolved homicides in state parks in Vermont and Wisconsin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Arkansas State Police allege McGann killed the couple in a completely random event while they hiked with their two daughters. We have no reason to believe there was any known association between our suspect and our victims, said Col. Mike Hagar, Arkansas State Police director, per Fox News. During an interview with investigators, the suspect admitted to committing the murders. We also executed a search warrant at his residence and recovered items consistent with the crime. DNA evidence further linked McGann to the scene. McGann, arrested on July 30 in Springdale, showed little emotion during his 30-minute arraignment at the Washington County Detention Center, where he was appointed a public defender and ordered held without bond. The Washington County Prosecuting Attorneys Office stated, the state continues to pursue the death penalty, with a trial set for November 14 at the Washington County Courthouse. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prosecuting attorney Brandon Carter anticipates a gag order due to the cases notoriety, but emphasized McGanns right to a fair trial. Investigators are exploring possible links to other cases. In Wisconsin, Sauk County Sheriffs Office Det. Sgt. Drew Bulin said his agency received tips about a possible connection to the October 14, 2020, stabbing death of John Craig Schmutzer at Devils Lake State Park. Weve received many tips, both from citizens in Arkansas and Wisconsin, regarding the Devils Den Homicide and the possible connection to our homicide from October 2020, Bulin told Fox News Digital. Weve been in contact with Arkansas investigators and will be working to determine if the similarities are a coincidence or if there is something more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McGann, described as 6 feet tall, matches the general build of Schmutzers killer. In Vermont, state police contacted Arkansas authorities to discuss the 2023 shooting death of Honoree Fleming, 77, on the Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail in Castleton. After the Vermont State Police learned of the recent double homicide of a couple on a hiking trail in Arkansas and the arrest of a suspect, VSP detectives took the routine step of contacting their counterparts in Arkansas to discuss the case, the Vermont State Police wrote in an August 7 press release. At this time, there is no known link between the suspect in that case and the Honoree Fleming homicide, or to Vermont in general. I think anybody that has an unsolved hiking trail murder, theyre probably taking note of this right now, said Shane Wilkinson, a former Benton County chief deputy prosecutor, per Fox News. Former homicide detective Ted Williams added, I would have to believe not only are law enforcement in Wisconsin and Vermont interested in McGann. But they also interested him all over this country because of the manner in which he was alleged to have stabbed this couple to death. 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 Wildfire smoke contains pollutants that are hazardous to health, including fine particles (PM 2.5 ), which have been linked to increased mortality and morbidity. A new study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), provides strong evidence that PM 2.5 from wildfires poses a greater mortality risk than non-fire-related particles. The results, published in The Lancet Planetary Health, also indicate that mortality associated with wildfire smoke may be underestimated by 93%. The study relied on data from the EARLY-ADAPT project, which includes daily mortality records across 654 contiguous regions in 32 European countries, covering a population of 541 million people. The team combined this data with daily estimates of fire-related and non-fire-related PM 2.5 from 2004 to 2022. To analyze the short-term mortality impacts of wildfire smoke, statistical models were used that account for lagged effects, as health problems may not manifest immediately. The analysis covered mortality from all causes, respiratory causes, and cardiovascular causes. The results showed that exposure to higher levels of wildfire-related fine particles increased the risk of death in the seven days following exposure. Specifically, for every one microgram per cubic meter (1 g/m) increase in PM 2.5 concentration, all-cause mortality rose by 0.7%, respiratory mortality by 1%, and cardiovascular mortality by 0.9%. Previous studies suggest that wildfire PM 2.5 may be up to ten times more harmful than particles from other sources, such as traffic emissions. Underestimated mortality The study estimated that, during the study period, short-term exposure to wildfire-derived PM 2.5 was responsible for an average of 535 annual deaths from all causes, including 31 from respiratory diseases and 184 from cardiovascular causes. These estimates were made using specific data on how wildfire smoke affects health, allowing for a better calculation of its impact compared to other pollution sources. In contrast, when using a general value of risk for all fine particles (PM 2.5 ), regardless of their origin, only 38 deaths per year from wildfire smoke were estimated. Therefore, assuming that wildfire PM 2.5 has the same effect as total PM 2.5 represents a 93% underestimation, as specific data showed actual mortality to be nearly 14 times higher. This difference highlights the importance of using risk data adapted to the type and source of the pollutant, especially in the context of increasing wildfire smoke exposure due to the climate crisis. "Human-driven climate change is one of the main causes of the rising frequency and intensity of wildfires, as it creates favorable conditions for their spread and increases the number of days with very high or extremely high fire risk," says Anna Alari, ISGlobal researcher and first author of the study. "Improving estimates of PM 2.5 -related wildfire mortality will help better track the burden of this climate change-related threat to public health." Differences across regions The analysis shows some regional heterogeneity in the associations between wildfire-related PM 2.5 exposure and mortality. In particular, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, and Serbia were the most affected countries. In contrast, some highly exposed regions in Portugal and Spain showed weak and imprecise negative associations. "Possible explanations could be related to regional and national wildfire management and adaptation strategies. However, further studies are needed to identify the factors behind this regional variability," notes Cathryn Tonne, ISGlobal researcher and senior author of the study. More information: Anna Alari et al, Quantifying the short-term mortality effects of wildfire smoke in Europe: a multicountry epidemiological study in 654 contiguous regions, The Lancet Planetary Health (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.lanplh.2025.101296 Journal information: The Lancet Planetary Health LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The Jackson County Prosecutors Office has charged Leonard Hugall with the murder of a 13-year-old girl over 40 years ago in Summit Township. Leonard Hugall (DeSoto County Jail) The office reports that Prosecuting Attorney Kelsey Guernsey and Jackson County Sheriff Gary Schuette have charged Hugall with Homicide First Degree Felony Murder and Homicide Second Degree Murder. Hugall is currently in Florida and will be extradited to Jackson County. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Felony Murder carries a mandatory sentence of life without parole in Michigan. The office reports that the investigation began in 1984 in Summit Township when the 13-year-old girl was reported missing. The girl was never found. The investigation continued over the years and culminated in Hugall being charged in connection with her disappearance. This arrest demonstrates that time does not diminish our resolve. Detective Sergeant Kelly Ebersole and Detective Mark Easter have shown relentless dedication on this case. Holding Hugall accountable after all these years is a testament to their commitment and to the fact that we never quit, no matter how long it takes, said Sheriff Schuette in a news release sent to 6 News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hugall will be arraigned in the 12th District Court in Jackson County following his extradition from Florida. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. (KRON) Authorities are investigating a highway shooting on I-580 Wednesday evening in Oakland, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The shooting happened on westbound I-580, east of 98th Avenue. A witness reported that around 5:18 p.m., an occupant of the suspect vehicle was shooting at another, CHP said. A car chase ensued, but CHP lost sight of the suspect vehicle. According to CHP, both the suspect and victim escaped before authorities made contact with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Six people, including teen, detained by ICE after raid in Oakland home: attorney CHP officers later found the suspect vehicle parked near Brockhurst and Market streets in Oakland, authorities said. The vehicle was empty when officers arrived. All lanes on I-580 were shut down between 6:37 p.m. and 6:55 p.m. All the lanes have since reopened. There were no reports of injuries 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 KRON4. HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) An arrest in Nashville helped the Hendersonville Police Department find an alleged porch pirate. According to authorities, the suspect followed an Amazon truck around a Hendersonville neighborhood on Sunday, Aug. 10, stealing packages and grabbing a backpack from inside a residents garage. The backpack itself had more than $10,000 worth of videography equipment inside. Law enforcement collected doorbell camera surveillance footage of the porch pirate, who looked familiar to HPD. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This suspect looked like one that broke into Planet Fitness on July 27, explained HPD Cmdr. Jimmy Garrett. Its on Benita Parkway also. Fentanyl, guns found during separate traffic stops along I-40 in Putnam County As Garrett mentioned, a Hendersonville Planet Fitness was nearly burglarized more than two weeks ago, around the same time of day as Sundays incident. The suspect was reportedly caught stealing tools from the gym by an employee. Then, he got on his [stolen] motorcycle and fled, Garrett detailed. We got in a pursuit of him. We ended up stopping the pursuit because its a motorcycle and it became dangerous, but the items that he had taken and dropped, our officers fingerprinted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commander said the fingerprint evidence came back to Jeremiah Cox. We find out he may be an unhoused person in the Metro area. It just so happens, on Tuesday morning, about 3 oclock, Metro arrests him for an unrelated case. He was in the park, they arrested him, he had a lot of property with him, said Garrett. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com After meeting Cox in jail, Garrett said police found nearly everything stolen on Sunday, linking Cox to both crimes. Cox now faces multiple charges in Hendersonville, including aggravated burglary, theft of property, reckless endangerment, and vandalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we didnt share information and share ideas, and the community didnt provide us the video, none of this would have been solved, said Garrett. This guy would still be out doing what hes doing, committing the crimes. As soon as he gets out for his unrelated crimes in Metro, he would go right back out and do it again. According to Garrett, Cox is still being held by Nashville authorities. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Prosecutors unveiled new details in an Aug. 14 hearing about the Downtown brawl that went viral in July, including the existence of two new videos of the event that have not yet been seen by the public. Five of the seven defendants indicted in the brawl were arraigned in Hamilton County Common Pleas Court on Aug. 14 before Judge Alan Triggs. Triggs lowered bonds for two women, ordered a mental health evaluation for one defendant and lowered the restrictions for a man on a GPS monitoring unit. Assistant Prosecutor Kip Guinan said each defendant in court Aug. 14 had direct contact with a victim. He noted several victims suffered concussions and described some of the actions of the defendants as "WWE-style" attacks with flying elbows and stomps to the head. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said there are two videos from "stationary" cameras that have not yet been released. Guinan said his office is working on a compilation of videos to turn over to the defense attorneys. Triggs noted that he was hoping that the video would have been ready to present in court during the Aug. 14 hearing. Guinan said Jermaine Matthews was the "main instigator" of the incident, which he called a "brutal beatdown." He said Matthews and others harassed the victims, following them on the street and telling them, "You are at the wrong party." Matthews' lawyer, Brandon Fox, said his client was the one being slapped and called racial slurs in videos posted online. He said his client was there operating his business when people began kicking his vehicle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yearly totals remain up: Downtown, Over-the-Rhine see drop in some crimes in last month Fox said he has found an eyewitness who filmed another video, which has not been released to the public. Fox described the situation as "mutual combat." Jermaine Matthews, 39, enters Hamilton County Common Pleas Courtroom for his arraignment Aug. 14. Guinan said the racial slurs seen in videos occurred 1 minute and 47 seconds into the brawl. "This is the man who started it," Guinan said of Matthews. Montianez Merriweather, 34, enters Hamilton County Common Pleas Courtroom for his arraignment Aug. 14. Lawyer Clyde Bennett blames high bonds on 'race and politics' Clyde Bennett, who is representing Dekyra Vernon, said the high bonds in this case were motivated by race and politics. "If you remove race and politics," Bennett said, "this is a fist-fight fueled by alcohol consumption." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Joshua Evans, who is representing Dominique Kittle, said his client was scared, being chased and called racial slurs. He also noted that everyone indicted is Black. Body cameras: Videos show police response to now-viral Downtown Cincinnati brawl Guinan repeatedly said he was offended by the idea that this case had anything to do with race or politics. He said he was in charge of the case and decided who to present charges against. "I don't have a racist bone in my body," Guinan said. "This has nothing to do with race." The assistant prosecutor also described himself as "apolitical." The community is watching Family, friends and supporters filled the Hamilton County Common Pleas Courtroom, August 14, 2025, for the arraignments of five individuals involved in the downtown brawl on July 26. Many were recording the proceedings, which Judge Alan Triggs allowed. The courtroom was full Aug. 14. Several people filmed the proceeding on their cell phones from the gallery. While that would be against the rules in many courtrooms, Triggs explained the whole hearing was being livestreamed by the court, so he would allow it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the bonds of Vernon and Devaughn were lowered, some cheered and clapped. The brawl has sparked a broader conversation about crime and safety in Cincinnati. Race has also become an element in the case, as all the people charged are Black. Leaders in Cincinnati's Black community have called for police to arrest the White man who is seen slapping Matthews in one of the viral videos. Pastor Lesley Jones with the Amos Project attended the hearing and said "emotions are high" in the community. She said Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said that everyone involved in the brawl would be arrested. But the only people who have appeared in court so far have been Black, Jones said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said more videos and information should be released by investigators as outlined in the city's Collaborative Agreement. "This wasn't a riot," Jones said. "We are all part of the human race. We should treat each other with dignity and respect. Bond lowered for 2 defendants, 2 did not appear Aug. 14 So far, seven people have been charged in the July 26 incident: Montianez Merriweather, 34. Jermaine Matthews, 39. Dekyra Vernon, 24. Dominique Kittle, 37. Patrick Rosemond, 38. Aisha Devaughn, 25. Gregory Wright, 32. Triggs kept Merriweather's bond at $500,000. Matthews' bond remained at $270,000, which he has already posted. Triggs did say Matthews can continue to work instead of being on a full lockdown at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Matthews is also facing a federal weapons indictment in a separate case. A mental health evaluation was ordered for Kittle, whose lawyer said he has a previous diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. Triggs said Kittle will remain held in jail, at least until the evaluation is complete. The bonds for Vernon and Devaughn were lowered to $25,000 at 10% with orders for them to be on GPS monitors if released. Vernon's bond was initially set at $200,000, and Devaughn's was set at $300,000. Neither has any prior criminal convictions. All the defendants who appeared in court Aug. 14 pleaded not guilty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rosemond, who was being held in a Georgia jail after his arrest there, did not appear in court. Prosecutors said he is on his way back to Ohio but did not make it in time for the hearing. Wright has made his first appearance in court but has not yet been indicted. He will not be arraigned in the common pleas court until that happens. All the defendants are charged with felony aggravated rioting. All but Wright are also charged with multiple counts of felonious assault and face up to 29 and a half years in prison if convicted on all charges. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Prosecutor says there's more video showing how Downtown brawl began PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) The death of a man whose body was found along a forest road in Washington under suspicious circumstances has been ruled a homicide, authorities announced Wednesday. In a Wednesday Facebook post, the Skamania County Sheriffs Office identified the man as 20-year-old Jacob DeSha of Carson, Washington announcing that the Clark County Medical Examiners Office determined his manner of death as a homicide. Details leading up to DeShas death were not immediately available. On July 20, the Skamania County Sheriffs Office found DeShas body near U.S. Forest Service Road 43 north of Carson while responding to a missing person report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon family of 5 found dead in apparent murder-suicide The investigation into DeShas death is ongoing, the sheriffs office said, noting the office believes this is an isolated incident with no threat to the public. Officials ask anyone who has seen suspicious persons or vehicles between July 1 and July 20, 2025, near the southeast portion of the 43 Road, and the Hemlock/Stabler area north of Carson, to contact the Skamania County Sheriffs Office. Detectives are also urging residents in the Hemlock/Stabler community, and along Wind River Road, to check their home surveillance systems for suspicious people or vehicles during the July 1-20 time period. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Aug. 13Wednesday will see more hot and dry conditions in the Spokane area, triggering a red flag warning from the National Weather Service. The National Weather Service anticipates a high of 92 degrees, down 7 degrees from what was registered at Felts Field 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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. The Brief The family of Michaela (Jeffries) Tyler, 28, is speaking out after Michael Logan Tyler, her former spouse, was indicted by a grand jury and charged with murder. The family says it took nearly 9 months for charges to be filed, and they are hoping full justice will be served. Sweeny Police responded with details about the charges. SWEENY, TX - One Sweeny family says after 9 months of little to no answers, they feel a sign of relief. Sweeny, TX: Husband arrested for wife's death The backstory In November 2024, 28-year-old Michaela Jeffries Tyler was killed at the Windmill Run Apartments. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last week, according to Brazoria County court records, Michael Logan Tyler, Michaelas husband at the time of her death, was indicted by a grand jury and charged with her murder. He has been in jail since April on other charges. Do better for your community' What they're saying Michael's family says, although theyre happy some justice was served, they are disappointed in how long it took to get here. "Not knowing what is yet to come and what his sentence will be, that still has me a little apprehensive, but at least they finally put the murder charges on him. We all knew it was coming," said Betty Liles, Michaelas grandmother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Michaelas grandmother Betty and aunt Barbara say they were happy, but there is a little anger and frustration because it took almost nine months. "I know there are protocols and things like that, but there are certain things that you can say, and silence and ignoring family that's grieving is not the way to go," said Barbara Miles. "I couldn't help her to know she was fearful of firearms to begin with, and to know that she was fighting him." "I dont hate anybody, but wow dude, you have no heart," Miles added. Betty Liles and Barbara Miles say they hope justice will be served to the full extent of the law, adding that Sweeny has changed since Michaelas death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I think it was just relief that they finally served him that, yes, it really did happen, and now we can move on from that to what the next step is going to be and prepare ourselves for that," said Liles. "But Sweeny, its just not the same little town. And though you dont expect it to happen in your backyard, you should be prepared because Sweeny is no big place to go, and you dont go to Sweeny unless you go for a purpose. Its not some place you have to go through, so they should protect what they have in their community and step up and do their job and get it over it, because Michaela grew up. There was no reason it should have taken this long." Miles says she hopes officials will move faster on further cases because waiting is hard on families. "Do better for your community, like, dont you want your community to call on you? Dont you want your community to have faith in you, to protect them?" said Miles. "To other families, dont lose hope, dont lose faith we didn't give up and look where we are. We are one step closer, so dont give up faith." Sweeny Police responds The other side FOX 26 reached out to Sweeny Police about comments regarding Michael's charges and arrest. Chief Brad Caudle responded : Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On 08/07/2025 at approximately 0840 hours, I along with the Texas Rangers, presented a criminal case against Michael Logan Tyler to the Brazoria County Grand Jury. On Monday, 08/11/2025, I was notified that the Grand Jury handed down an indictment against Michael Tyler for murder with a requested/recommended bond of $2 million. I served Michael Tyler with the indictment on Monday, 08/11/2025, for approximately 1115 hours at the Brazoria County Detention Center. I let him know that the case involving him and Michaela was presented to the grand jury last week, and the case presented was one based on evidence and to where that evidence led us. And that was a determination of murder. Michael didnt show any emotion. He acted like he kind of expected it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His main concern seemed to be that he felt like this was ruining his life. The charge was based on interviews with Michael along with forensic evidence." What's next Michael Logan Tyler is currently in the Brazoria County Jail on a $2 million bond for the murder charge. The Source FOX 26's Leslie DelasBour spoke to family members of the late Michaela Tyler and contacted Sweeny Police. Syrian government forces and their allies are likely to have committed war crimes during their crackdown against Alawite communities earlier this year, the UN has found. Security personnel and allied rebel groups were accused of carrying out summary executions, mostly targeting civilians from the religious minority, with a war monitor saying more than 1,700 people were killed in March. Forces linked to the former Assad regime, who are predominantly Alawite, are also accused of murder, torture and abductions during the violence along Syrias coast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN commission said in its report that the violations included acts that likely amount to war crimes. The commission documented cases of murder, torture and inhumane acts related to the treatment of the dead, widespread looting and burning of homes all of which displaced tens of thousands of civilians. Violence in the Alawite-majority coastal region came after a major security crackdown following an attack on interim government forces by pro-Assad factions in March. The attacks, which were publicly condemned by the European Union and Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syrias interim president, included the killing of more than 20 members of the interim government forces as well as shooting at or near hospitals and banning medical staff from leaving, according to the UN. Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syrians interim president, has called on unaffiliated forces to stand down - SANA/AP Reinforcements associated with the interim authorities were sent to pursue those responsible with foreign fighters in addition to unaffiliated groups taking up arms, the report also found. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As news of violence began to spread, Mr al-Sharaa told unaffiliated forces to stand down so that the military and security forces can complete their work in the best possible way. As the violence showed no signs of abating, Mr al-Sharaa announced the formation of a national inquiry to identify those responsible. These findings, which were passed to the UN commission, included the preliminary identification of 298 alleged perpetrators of violations among individuals and groups within military factions, as well as 265 alleged perpetrators of violations linked to armed groups associated with the former government. The report finds that unaffiliated and interim government forces carried out house raids, questioning civilians on whether they were Sunni or Alawi before taking men and boys away to be executed. Syrian forces in Latakia fight against troops loyal to Bashar al-Assad in March - Karam Al-Masri/Reuters Women and young children were also among the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While systematic patterns of killing were identified, the UN found no evidence of a governmental policy or plan to carry out such attacks. The report also finds evidence of severe beatings, looting and burning of homes, shops and agricultural land. Mass graves across multiple locations were dug to bury the bodies with eye-witness reports describing armed individuals transporting and/or burning bodies of the dead. The exclusion of groups from Alawite-majority coastal areas and the Druze-majority southern region of Suwayda from a major political conference is regarded as one of the triggers of attacks by pro-Assad forces. With more than 900 participants, the National Dialogue, a one-day conference held in February, was intended to pave the way for a new constitution for an inclusive state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suwayda has seen similar violence in recent weeks, with hundreds of people reported to have been killed in violent clashes between Israeli-backed Druze groups and interim government forces. Alawites, being a minority, were disproportionately represented in the former Assad-led state, making up over two thirds of Syrian forces. Assad himself is an Alawite. According to the UN this contributed to widespread perceptions that the Alawi community, as a whole, was complicit in authoritarian repression. Syrias Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to the UNs report on X, affirming that the findings of the UN commission align with its own independent inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Syrian Arab Republic values these efforts and reaffirms its commitment to incorporating the recommendations into the ongoing process of institution-building and the consolidation of the rule of law in the new Syria. 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. Millions of AT&T customers can now file claims in a $177 million legal settlement related to two data breaches, which could provide up to $7,500 in compensation per person. The first data breach, announced in March 2024, affected 73 million current and former AT&T account holders whose information including birth dates and Social Security numbers was found in a dataset on the dark web. The second data breach, announced in July 2024, involved hackers unlawfully downloading AT&T data from a third-party cloud platform, exposing the records of calls and texts of "nearly all" of AT&T's cellular customers. Multiple lawsuits were filed in state and federal courts across the country after both incidents, which were ultimately consolidated into two class-action cases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following a ruling from a federal judge, the settlement administration for AT&T said on Aug. 4 that a proposed settlement has been reached for $177 million, with $149 million earmarked for the first settlement class and $28 million set aside for the second settlement class. The settlement, however, still has to be approved. According to the settlement website, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas will hold a final approval hearing on Dec. 3, 2025. In the meantime, impacted AT&T customers can file for compensation. Here's more information on how to submit a claim. How do I know if I am eligible? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement AT&T customers whose data was compromised in the first or second data breach, or both, are eligible to file a claim for compensation. Notices are being emailed to customers who are eligible to file a claim, according to the settlement website. The emails are sent from the domain "attsettlement@e.emailksa.com," and the settlement administrator is Kroll Settlement Administration. If you are not sure if you qualify, you can call (833) 890-4930 with questions, according to the Kroll Settlement Administration. How do I file a claim? To receive part of the settlement, impacted AT&T customers have to fill out this claim form online by Nov. 18, 2025. Customers can also mail the form to AT&T Data Incident Settlement, c/o Kroll Settlement Administration LLC, P.O. Box 5324, New York, NY 10150-5324. It must be postmarked by November 18. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As stated on the settlement website, if you file a claim, you give up your right to sue AT&T. How much will I get? People whose data was exposed in the breach announced in March 2024 are eligible for up to $5,000 and can make claims for "payment for losses that occurred in 2019, or later," according to the settlement website. Those who were part of the second breach announced in July of last year are eligible for up to $2,500 "for losses that occurred on or after April 14, 2024," the settlement administration said. In both cases, customers must provide documentation showing that the losses they incurred are "fairly traceable" to the AT&T data breaches. Proof can include receipts and other documents "not self-prepared by the claimant that documents the costs incurred," according to the settlement website. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If your information was part of both breaches, you could be eligible for up to $7,500. That would make you part what the settlement administration calls a "overlap settlement class member." When could I get a payment? Not until December, at the earliest. If the court approves the settlement at the Dec. 3 hearing, there could be appeals after that, which would take time to resolve. "It also takes time for all of the claim forms to be processed. Please be patient," the settlement claim site states. Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan on the Trump-Putin summit, sanctions and more Laufey on creating her own sound A robotics activist's remarkable crusade CHEYENNE Taco Johns International, the fast-food company that began in Cheyenne in 1969 as a tiny taco stand, has officially moved its corporate headquarters to the Minneapolis, Minnesota, area. The headquarters was previously located in Cheyenne at 808 W. 20th St. The change has been taking place gradually over the past five years, said Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dale Steenbergen, who said he didn't have any additional information about the move out of the capital city. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The location in St. Louis Park, a Minneapolis suburb, started out as a second franchise support center. Over time, as the company expanded eastward, more members of the leadership team relocated from Cheyenne. According to previous reporting by the Wyoming Tribune Eagle, former Taco Johns CEO Jim Creel announced the plan for the new franchise support center in Minnesota on Dec. 2, 2019. It was slated to open the following March. The reason for the new offices, according to the WTE article, was to house franchisee-oriented operations like marketing, and research and development. Creel had said reaching the Midwest stores was inefficient and involved a lot of travel for employees. The move allowed for more interaction with stores near Minneapolis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a November 2022 story published by The Minnesota Star Tribune, Taco John's had opened a state-of-the-art test kitchen in the Shops at West End in St. Louis Park. At the time, according to the article, "Minnesota has Taco John's highest concentration of stores, with nearly half of the brand's restaurants located within a four-hour drive of Minneapolis." At the time of the 2019 announcement, Creel said he had no plans to move Taco Johns headquarters out of Wyoming. In a 2023 news release, he was quoted as saying, "Taco John's started in Cheyenne with grit, commitment to service and compassion. While we've expanded our company footprint to serve customers in the eastern part of the country, our roots run deep in Wyoming." However, Creel retired in January of 2024, and current CEO Heather Neary took over in February 2024. (Creel declined to comment for this story.) The former Taco John's headquarters location in Cheyenne is now being occupied by WyoLotto, the Wyoming Lottery Corporation, which began operating in 2013. It was formerly located downtown at 1620 Central Ave., Suite 100. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement WyoLotto is having a ribbon-cutting event at its new location Wednesday at 10 a.m. Taco John's corporate officials hadn't responded to requests for comment from the Wyoming Tribune Eagle by publication time, but according to the Dun & Bradstreet Business Directory online, the corporate address is currently 1650 West End Blvd., Suite 200, St. Louis Park, Minnesota. According to that same website, "Taco John's International operates and franchises more than 420 Mexican fast-food restaurants in about 25 states. The eateries feature burritos and tacos, along with quesadillas, nachos, and a selection of breakfast items. Found mostly in smaller markets of the Midwest and West, more than 97% of the locations are run by franchisees. "John Turner started the business when he opened his Taco House in Cheyenne, Wyoming; partners James Woodson and Harold Holmes later purchased the franchise rights and changed the name to Taco John's." Taco John's currently has five restaurants operating in Cheyenne. 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: Trends in the index of net survival (%) at 1, 5, 7 and 10 years, for all cancers combined: England and Wales, selected periods during 19712018. a) men and women combined, b) men, and c) women. Credit: The Lancet Regional Health - Europe (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2025.101385 Survival for all cancers combined has increased dramatically since the 1970s, but progress has slowed down in the past 1015 years, according to a study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Spanning nearly 50 years, the research included anonymized data for over 10 million adults diagnosed with cancer in England and Wales between 1971 and 2018, with follow-up to 2019. The data were provided by population-based national cancer registries. The research was conducted by the Cancer Survival Group at LSHTM, which studies trends and inequalities in cancer survival between socioeconomic, racial and ethnic groups of the population, and differences in survival between regions and countries in the UK and worldwide. The paper, published in The Lancet Regional HealthEurope, shows that survival for all cancers combined (the Cancer Survival Index) has increased dramatically since the 1970s. In 2018, the overall likelihood of 10-year survival for all cancers combined stands at 49.8%, compared to only 23.7% in the early 1970s. However, the study showed that the speed of improvement in the survival index for all cancers combined has slowedit increased nearly three times faster in the early 2000s than in the early 2010s. The authors suggest that pressures on NHS cancer services, resulting in longer waits for patients to receive diagnosis and treatment, could be contributing to the slowdown in progress. The all-cancers survival index does not show the chances of survival for an individual patient with cancer. Instead, it is designed to help monitor long-term progress in the overall effectiveness of the health care system in managing all cancers. It is a crucial tool to inform priorities in the government's National Cancer Plan for England, planned for the autumn. Breast, bowel and cervical cancers are among the cancer types that have seen large improvements in survival, partly due to effective screening programs in which patients are often diagnosed at an earlier stage, when the cancer is easier to treat. Improved awareness of symptoms and innovations in treatment have also contributed to better outcomes for many cancers. The remarkable progress for some types of cancer has not been seen for several of the more lethal cancers. Ten-year survival for cancers of the esophagus, stomach, lung and brain has increased very little in the past 50 years, and remains below 20%, while for pancreatic cancer, survival after 10 years is still less than 5%. These forms of cancer are harder to detect and treat, which is why targeted research in this area is vital. As a result, the difference in survival between cancer types in the UK is now bigger than it has ever been. Survival for 10 years or more ranges from 97% for testicular cancer to just 4.3% for pancreatic cancer. Professor Michel Coleman, lead researcher and Professor of Epidemiology and Vital Statistics in the Cancer Survival Group at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said, "The Cancer Survival Index (CSI) is a one-number summary of net survival for all cancers combined. It is an important policy tool. Trends in the CSI provide a real-world baseline from which to develop and monitor targets for the National Cancer Plan. "The UK cancer registries are crucial for informing cancer control priorities, such as the new National Cancer Plan for England. If the cancer registries had not collected and curated the data, over many decades, the analyses we report would be impossible." Professor Claudia Allemani, co-author and Professor of Global Public Health at LSHTM, said, "For patients diagnosed in 2018, the CSI for all cancers combined at 10 years after diagnosis (49.8%) is now higher than the CSI at one year for those diagnosed during 197172 (46.5%). "That is a remarkable improvement, but allowing this trend to stall will have devastating consequences. Pressures on NHS cancer services result in longer delays for patients to receive diagnosis and treatment. The proportion of patients who are diagnosed at stage 1 or 2 is still well below the 2028 target of 75%. The National Cancer Plan should exploit our population-based research to improve NHS cancer pathways and accelerate trends in survival. The Government must take this opportunity." Dr. Veronica Di Carlo, co-author and Research Fellow at LSHTM, said, "This study was only possible because anonymized records for millions of patients from cancer registries in England and Wales were available for our research. "It's vital that Government provides the political and financial support to ensure that the national cancer registries can thrive. Without these crucial data, the Government will be flying blind on cancer control strategy to support all cancer patients." Cancer Research UK chief executive, Michelle Mitchell, 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 slowingand 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." The authors acknowledged the limitation that more recent data, i.e. post-2018, were not available until very recently. Data on the stage at diagnosis and treatment of each patient were not available to help interpret the deceleration in cancer survival trends since 2010. More information: Michel P. Coleman et al, Trends over 48 years in a one-number index of survival for all cancers combined, England and Wales (19712018): a population-based registry study, The Lancet Regional Health - Europe (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2025.101385 KUWAIT (Reuters) -Kuwait's health ministry said 63 people had suffered methanol poisoning from contaminated alcoholic drinks in the five days to Wednesday, resulting in 13 deaths and 21 cases of blindness or impaired vision. The ministry said in a statement on X late on Wednesday that all those affected were of Asian nationalities, adding that 51 required urgent kidney dialysis and 31 needed mechanical ventilation. Kuwait bans the import or domestic production of alcoholic beverages, but some is manufactured in the country illegally in secret locations that lack any oversight or safety standards, exposing consumers to the risk of poisoning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Embassy of India in Kuwait, which has the largest expatriate community in the country, said around 40 Indian nationals in Kuwait have been hospitalized in the last few days, without specifying the cause. "There have been some fatalities, some are in a critical condition while others are recovering," it added in a statement on X, noting that it is seeking further details. (Reporting by Ahmed HagagyEditing by Alexandra Hudson) ISLAMABAD (AP) The Taliban on Thursday denied using force to divert international aid in Afghanistan, responding to a U.S. watchdog report that said authorities used every means at their disposal, including force, to ensure that aid goes where they want it to. The 118-page report, published a day earlier by the U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, said the Taliban use their regulatory power to determine which NGOs may operate, and under what conditions. The report added that the Taliban block and redirect aid to ensure it benefits Pashtun communities over minority Hazara or Tajik groups, and that they refuse to allow NGOs to operate unless they hire Taliban-affiliated businesses, NGOs, and individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until recently, the U.S. was the largest donor to Afghanistan. The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump stopped foreign aid to the country because, according to officials, the money was benefiting the Taliban. Last year, the United States provided 43% of all international humanitarian funding to Afghanistan. The watchdog report, based on interviews with 90 current and former officials, including at the U.N. and from the U.S., also found that an employee at an Afghan NGO was killed for exposing the diversion of food aid to Taliban military training camps. The Taliban may manipulate exchange rates and rig currency auctions of imported U.S. dollars for profit," the report stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It added that the Taliban may also collude with senior U.N. officials to demand kickbacks from U.N. vendors." A 2023 United States Institute of Peace report found that the Taliban had infiltrated and influenced most U.N-managed assistance programs." A spokesperson for the Economy Ministry, which oversees foreign and domestic NGOs, rejected the reports findings, claiming that humanitarian aid from international organizations was provided directly by domestic and foreign organizations through U.N. offices, without the intervention of Taliban institutions. We strive to create the necessary facilities for aid organizations to promote economic growth and reduce poverty, said the spokesperson, Abdul Rahman Habib, adding that We support the transparent activities of domestic and foreign organizations and monitor their projects. The U.N. mission in Afghanistan told The Associated Press in a statement that the report highlighted the extremely complex operating environment for aid delivery in Afghanistan, including attempts at interference and restrictions from authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It also addressed the report's kickback allegations. We take extremely seriously any allegations of malpractice and corruption, either by United Nations officials or implementing partners, and ensure these are promptly investigated, the statement said. We encourage anyone in possession of any evidence of aid diversion, misuse, misconduct, fraud, and abuse to immediately report such information through the established, formal, and confidential reporting channels so that these can be investigated. The Taliban refuse to cooperate with women A USAID official told the watchdog in 2023 that the Taliban refused to register women-led NGOs, prevented them from opening bank accounts, refused to authorize women-focused projects, demanded that women on boards of directors be replaced with men, and threatened to close organizations that failed to comply with their policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In that same year, the report said, even two high-ranking female U.N. officials the U.N. deputy secretary general and the executive director of U.N. Women were told they should not be on public site visits without male chaperones, specifically, a husband, father, or brother. The U.N. said last week that dozens of female Afghan staff had received death threats. The threats come against a backdrop of severe restrictions placed on women since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The Taliban denied such threats had been made or that it was possible to make them. The Taliban barred Afghan women from working at domestic and foreign NGOs in December 2022, extending this ban to the U.N. six months later, and then threatening to shut down agencies and groups still employing women. Some women have nonetheless remained in key sectors, such as health care and urgent humanitarian assistance, areas where aid agencies report a great need. Aid agencies say more than half of Afghanistans population roughly 23 million people need humanitarian assistance. The crisis stems from decades of conflict, including the 20-year U.S. war with the Taliban, as well as entrenched poverty and climate shocks. CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) On this episode of Talk 2 The Doc, hosted by Carolyn Murray, we sit down with an extraordinary obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Kenosha Gleaton. Dr. Gleaton is a trailblazer who chose her path despite never having met an African American OB/GYN in her hometown of Lancaster, South Carolina. She is the wife of a physician and the mother of two boys, and in our conversation, she reveals the person who doubted she could become a physician. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can watch new episodes of Talk 2 The Doc each Thursday at 3:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on News 2s streaming TV app, WCBD+. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Arlington Democrat Mayor Jim Ross is facing mounting scrutiny as the city works to address a $25 million budget shortfall for 2026, with a proposed property tax increase aimed at closing the gap. The budget proposal calls for a three-cent property tax rate hike, which would cost the average homeowner about $59 annually. Including higher fees, the average Arlington homeowner would pay roughly $147 more each year, according to WFAA. You have a city thats going through a financial challenge, really through no creation of our own, but through structural changes that are happening outside of us that we are now trying to manage, Arlington City Manager Trey Yelverton told the city council. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If approved, the increase would generate an estimated $11.1 million in revenue. The plan also includes eliminating 42 vacant city positions. The move differs from approaches in neighboring cities. Fort Worth City Manager Jay Chapa has proposed lowering the citys property tax rate to 67 cents per $100 in value, which would reduce the average homeowners tax bill by $20. Dallas City Manager Kim Tolbert has proposed reducing that citys rate from 70.47 cents to 69.97 cents per $100 of value, according to the Fort Worth Report and WFAA. The proposed tax hike comes as Ross faces ongoing political controversy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public records obtained by The Dallas Express show the IRS is garnishing his wages to collect more than $174,000 in unpaid federal taxes. A June 2025 document from the Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector lists $940.39 in penalties and interest, with total back taxes at $174,945.93. Ross is also under criticism after 2018 video footage resurfaced showing him making vulgar and sexually explicit remarks toward Christian street preacher Ruben Israel during the Southern Decadence festival in New Orleans. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the comments targeted Israels wife, who has been in an assisted living facility for years with Parkinsons disease, per Rich Penkoski, a street preacher with Official Street Preachers. Local faith leaders have condemned Ross disgusting remarks. Ruben Israel was no shrinking violet; yet even he deserved dignity and respect from an elected representative. Arlington can demand better without trading insults for insults. Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21), Pastor Troy Jackson of New Beginnings Church in Bedford told The Dallas Express. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying (Ephesians 4:29), Jackson added. For the first time, a woman won the Florida Python Challenge in July and collected her $10,000 reward this week. More than 900 people from 30 different states and even some from Canada participated in the 2025 Florida Python Challenge last month, removing a record-breaking number of 294 invasive Burmese Pythons in just 10 days. But there was one Florida-native python hunter who removed more of the gigantic snakes than anyone else who participated, securing a $10,000 prize that was awarded to her by the FWC this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Stanberry, who stands at less than half the height of most of the snakes she catches, pulled in a whopping 60 pythons during the challenge. Heres what we know about Taylor and what the Python Challenge is, if you arent familiar. Q&A with the winner: Florida Python Challenge winner captured 60 snakes and $10K. How she did it How does the Florida Python Challenge work? The Florida Python Challenge is one of the many efforts the FWC has in place to keep the python population in the state as low as possible. It offers a cash prize to the python hunter who removes the most pythons over a 10-day period. Although the event is usually held in August, it was held in July this year and included a broader range of hunting grounds. This year, the challenge began on Friday, July 11 at 12:01 a.m. and lasted through Sunday, July 20 at 5 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the South Florida Water Management District, features an Ultimate Grand Prize of $10,000 for the registered participant who removes the most pythons, the FWCs website says. An exciting addition to this years event is the inclusion of Everglades National Park as one of eight official Florida Python Challenge competition locations. Throughout the yearly python challenges, more than 1,100 of the invasive snakes have been removed. Last years challenge alone removed 195 invasive Burmese pythons. This year, 294 snakes were removed. More about Taylor: Florida Python Challenge winner nabbed 60 pythons Who won the Florida Python Challenge in 2025? 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. Taylor Stanberry, a Naples native, was the 2025 Florida Python Challenge winner. She captured 60 of the invasive snakes, finding 30 of those (hatchlings) in a single nest during one night of the challenge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stanberry told The Naples Daily News that although shes been python hunting with her husband, Rhett, for years (she has more than a decade of experience), this was her first time participating in the challenge. The biggest python Stanberry caught in this years challenge was between 9.5 and 10 feet long, more than double her height at 4-feet, 11-inches. Dont worry, shes aware that her height is one of the most recognizable things about her. Shes known to her almost 69,000 Instagram followers as @taylor2short. Stanberry said that she also caught a 12-footer the day before the challenge kicked off, which obviously did not count toward her total of 60, since it was before the official start of the challenge. I have been catching pythons for over 10 years. Its all about knowing what areas to hunt, what habitat to look for and just putting in the time, Stanberry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some nights I go out and wont find a single python, then other nights, Ill find a nest of 60 babies (hatchlings)! I would tell newbie hunters to just put in the time. Ive heard from some that theyve hunted for a few hours and caught nothing. Who is Taylor Stanberry? Meet the 2025 Python Challenge winner Meet the winner of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge: Taylor Stanberry, who at 4-feet, 11-inches tall took home the grand prize of $10,000 for catching 60 snakes. Stanberry is a 29-year-old Naples native and the first woman to win the Florida Python Challenge grand prize. She works at a canine physical therapy rehab center, is a python contractor with the FWC, runs a small exotic animal rescue and posts online about her adventures with her husband to the tune of almost 69,000 Instagram followers and 227,000 YouTube subscribers. Ive been looking for wildlife since I was a little kid. I used to go fishing with my dad and we would catch toads and I would bring them home to play with them, Stanberry said. As Ive gotten older, Ive started traveling around the world looking for wildlife, especially snakes, to video and photograph. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She told The Daily News that she plans to use the prize money to expand her animals' enclosures and pay for gas to do more of what she does best: python hunt. How much is a license to hunt pythons in Florida? Since pythons are invasive and plentiful, you don't need a license or permit to hunt them in Florida. Hunting them in Florida is encouraged because Burmese pythons have very few predators. Thats why the FWC runs the statewide python challenge to get the public involved in the hunt for the massive, invasive snakes. Although the chances of completely eradicating pythons from South Florida are low, the hunt helps control their numbers. "Hunters, anglers and outdoor recreationists with experience removing pythons or other large constrictors from the wild are encouraged to apply, with preference given to Florida residents and military veterans," the Fort Myers News-Press reported last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The FWC also has a Python Action Team that hires contractors to kill the invasive snakes. This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Florida Python Challenge winner Taylor Stanberry caught 60 snakes A teacher who sent pictures of herself in her underwear to a 15-year-old pupil has been banned from the profession for life. Georgia Lowe, now aged 27, had taught at Kingsmead School in Hednesford, Staffordshire, and was caught when "inappropriate" notes were found by the boy's mother. The relationship with her pupil began with late-night email sessions in 2021 using emojis and nicknames, months after she started in the role, a Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA) panel heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the affair came to light, Ms Lowe was suspended by the school, but she contacted the pupil again, sending him sexual images of herself, the TRA panel was told. After resigning, the teacher was found guilty of engaging in sexual communication with a child and was handed a 14-month suspended jail term, the panel heard. 'Make me proud' Ms Lowe began working as a trainee teacher at Kingsmead School in July 2021. In September that year, when she was responsible for the then 15-year-old, she began emailing him as late as 22:00, the panel was told. Her messages included heart symbol emojis, would often end with a kiss, and used nicknames, the panel heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Lowe wrote to the pupil using phrases like "make me proud", "try not to miss me too much" and "you've already made my day", the TRA was told. In October 2021, the boy's mother found notes she believed were from Ms Lowe and reported her concerns to the school. An investigation was launched, and Ms Lowe was suspended, the panel heard. Despite having "a warning shot across her bows", the teacher contacted the boy again, and sent him intimate photos, the TRA was told. 'Gross breach of trust' Ms Lowe resigned in November 2021 and was charged by the police. She initially denied the charge before changing her plea to guilty on the day of trial, the panel heard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Lowe was sentenced to 14 months in jail, suspended for 18 months, and was put on the sex offenders register for 10 years. In his sentencing remarks, the judge said Ms Lowe committed a "gross breach of trust" and "used the environment in which you were working with [the pupil] to pursue what was evidently your sexual interest in him". "You moved on to the passing of inappropriate notes to him, and ultimately, by the end of the period that we are concerned with, matters escalated to private digital communications between you and him, including you sending him images of yourself in your underwear," the judge said. "The concerning aspect of your case is that after matters came to light, by his mother having found out what was going on, you were spoken to, and yet you still had another face-to-face meeting with him at school, and ultimately, when the investigation was launched and you were suspended from work, you contacted him again, and that included the sending of the images of yourself to him." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On behalf of the secretary of state, decision maker Marc Cavey said Ms Lowe's behaviour was "incompatible with working as a teacher". He decided she should be prohibited from teaching indefinitely. Follow BBC Stoke & Staffordshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Related internet links CHICAGO (WGN) Members from several government services are in Chicago to assess the damage from last months flood. Across Chicagos Southwest Side for the next several days, members of a preliminary damage assessment team bearing government ID cards could come knocking on your door. We talk to homeowners or renters, Greg Nimmo said. We look at pictures they may have. We try to get validation of what they reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nimmo, the recovery division chief for the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, said government officials are early in the assistance process. Before there are any official disaster declarations, a team of city, state and federal recovery specialists has to assess the damage seen on the ground. Probably the worst splitting weve had here, and weve been here for five years, said Larry Anguiano, a Southwest Side homeowner whose basement flooded on July 25. Gov. JB Pritzker has the final say on whether or not to submit for a federal disaster declaration from President Donald Trump, according to Nimmo. If the federal declaration is made, grants for especially hard-hit individuals or low-interest loans could be offered to applicants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thousands of homes across Chicago and Cook County were impacted by the heavy rains between July 25 and July 28. Last week, Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle issued disaster proclamations to assist residents in recovery efforts. PHOTOS: Heavy rainfall causes widespread flooding in Chicago If any resident sustained damage from late-July storms and flooding, a quick in-person review of the level of damage is key to having the state of Illinois request federal disaster recovery assistance for those impacted, a news release from the citys Office of Emergency Management said. How to handle storm damage assessments in Chicago If you have water in your basement from the storms that happened in late July, report Water in Basement to 311. In making the report to 311, you will need to provide an address for recovery specialists to come and assess your home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Key tips to remember ahead of your damage assessment: Damage assessment teams do not enter your home. They do not use third-party contractors or ask for payment for any of their services. Bi-lingual staff will be available. Contact your homeowners or rental insurance to learn if you are already covered. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. NEED TO KNOW A teenage girl has died and her older sister was injured in a jet ski crash in Florida The incident occurred in the afternoon on Tuesday, August 12 The two teenage girls identified by family as Rachel Aliza Nisanov, 13, Aviva Bracha Nisano, 16 were riding together when they struck a dock A teenage girl died in a jet ski crash during a family vacation to celebrate her graduation, according to a relative. Her sister, who was driving at the time, was injured, but survived. First responders received 911 calls about the crash shortly after 3:30 p.m. local time on Tuesday, August 12, a public information officer for Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The two teenage girls identified by family as Rachel Aliza Nisanov, 13, Aviva Bracha Nisano, 16 were riding together when they struck a dock, according to CBS News Miami, NBC affiliate WTVJ and local news station WPLG. Both girls were rushed to Broward Health Medical Center with life-threatening injuries, but Rachel did not survive. Aviva, who was operating the jet ski at the time, remains hospitalized, reported WTVJ. The fire rescue spokesperson said it was unclear how exactly the crash occurred. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Speaking about what happened, the girls' brother Yonah told WTVJ that his sisters were "coming back to the dock" when "they lost control" and hit the dock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yonah said their family traveled to Florida from New York in honor of Rachel's recent graduation and their father, a rabbi, was on another jet ski at the time. "My father doesn't even know how to swim, he jumped in, my sisters were unconscious, their life jackets were on, they were lying flat and my father jumped in and scraped up his hands, feet, his back all over to save them," he told the outlet. "The father he says he looked and they were gone, a friend of the family who also works with Florida Highway Patrol, said during an interview with WPLG. 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. Esteban Granados, who owns the local company that rented the jet skis to the family, told WPLG that the sisters finished an online safety course prior to taking the jet skis out on the water, but had no prior experience. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was their first time, said the Prime Watersports owner. Thats why I was stressing all the safety instructions to them." An investigation is ongoing and being handled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Prime Watersports did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. Read the original article on People An American teen influencer whose ambitious solo flight around the world ground to a halt two months ago when he landed in Antarctica has struck a deal with Chilean authorities so he can finally leave the continent, according to reports. Ethan Guo, 19, has been trapped for almost two months after Chilean officials accused him on violating the nation's airspace and "multiple national and international" laws during the June leg of his trip, according to CBS News. Since 2024, Guo has travelled to six out of the seven continents: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia stopping at hospitals along the way to meet with child cancer patients, and discuss raising awareness with experts and medical professionals. He documents his journey on social media while raising funds for cancer research. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was during a flight out of Chile that Guo ran into trouble. Chile controls the airspace at and around the tip of South America and maintains territorial claims and a base in Antarctica. Chilean officials accused Guo of submitting a false flight plan before he left from Carlos Ibanez del Campo Airport in Punta Arenas. They claim that Guo deviated from his pre-approved flight plan - which would have taken him to Ushuaia, Argentina - and traveled to Antarctica instead. Ethan Guo, a 20-year-old pilot attempting to fly solo to every continent, was detained by Chilean authorities after he deviated from his flight plan and landed in Antarctica. Hes been trapped in Antarctica since June 28. (AP) On Monday, a judge ruled that Guo can leave King George Island, which is roughly 75 miles off Antarctica, if he donates $30,000 to a children's cancer foundation within 30 days. He has also been banned from reentering Chilean territories for three years. Guo agreed to the terms and told the Associated Press that he was "relieved by the outcome." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I remain in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight," Guo told the AP. "I sincerely hope they give it to me soon so that I and my plane can continue with my original mission." He told the New York Times that his time at the base has been quiet and lonely, and that he spent it reading science fiction books. Its very hard and its really isolating and lonely, he said in video call with the Times. That means, like solitude like, you know, confined solitude. American pilot Ethan Guo takes off from Geneva Airpor in Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday, August 6, 2024 for attempting world record solo flight all seven continents. (' KEYSTONE / SALVATORE DI NOLFI) Guo told the outlet that he only landed at the Chilean base because ice was forming on his plane, causing him to lose control. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teen added that he lost contact with local air traffic controllers and he was losing speed. Guo said that he needed to land, and the Antarctic base was the closest safe haven. I was like, I dont care whats going to happen, Guo told the paper. Like, this is an emergency. I need to get down. He said he's unsure of exactly when he'll fly back to continental Chile, or how he'll get off King George Island. Chile's aviation authority said the young pilot could leave as soon as he pays for transportation off the island. He's been barred from flying his own plane because, according to Chilean authorities, his on-board life rafts and life vests are expired and because his plane does not have a functioning anti-icing system. A woman walks outside Chile's Eduardo Frei Air Force Base at King George Island, South Shetlands, Antarctica, Nov. 25, 2023. (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) Officials also noted that "there is no certainty that the remaining fuel on the aircraft will be enough to reach the city of Punta Arenas," which is about a six hour flight from the base where Guo is being detained. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guo told the Times he does not want to leave his Cessna plane behind and believes it's in good enough condition to make the flight. Guo not forced to stay on the island at any point, but the brutal winter conditions in that part of the southern hemisphere means that flying wasnt an option, AP repots. An 18-year-old from North Carolina who had been missing for one week after vacationing with relatives in Florida has been found dead, according to officials. Giovanni Pelletier, an 18-year-old who was described as "smart, kind and full of life," disappeared early on Aug. 1 "under deeply troubling and suspicious circumstances," according to the family's GoFundMe page. Pelletier was visiting Englewood, Florida, with his mother and her fiance and wanted to reconnect with relatives from his biological father's family, Desiree Pelletier, who is Giovanni's aunt and sister of his mother, told ABC News. While he was unable to see his father, who is incarcerated, he made plans to see three of his cousins on that side of the family, his aunt said. Charlotte County Sheriff's Office - PHOTO: A photo released by the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office of Giovanni Pelletier. With only a few days left in his vacation, Pelletier's cousins picked him up at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Aug. 1 to take him on the three-hour drive to their house in Mims, Florida, his aunt said. His mother was planning on picking him up the next day, according to Desiree Pelletier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But within 25 minutes of leaving, he sent his mom a text: "Help me," his aunt said. That was the last time his mother heard from him, according to his aunt. A family member found Pelletier's body on Aug. 8 in a retention pond across the street from where his backpack and phone were located in Bradenton, Florida, his aunt confirmed to ABC News on Sunday. The teen's body was found exactly one week after he disappeared, his aunt said. After extensive forensic testing, the Manatee County Sheriff's Office confirmed to ABC News on Thursday that the body found in the pond was identified to be Pelletier. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Identification of the body was confirmed through dental records, and "additional forensic testing was required due to the condition of his body," the sheriff's office said. The cause of death remains undetermined "pending toxicology results, which are expected to take several weeks," the sheriff's office said. "Detectives are actively pursuing multiple leads to learn more about the circumstances surrounding Pelletier's death. There are still no signs of foul play," the sheriff's office said. Desiree Pelletier said her sister, the teen's mother, "is broken" by the news of her son's death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Body identified as California teen reported missing days ago During a press conference with the family on Tuesday, they said they are "devastated" and had been "hoping for a better outcome." The family also said they are hiring an attorney to help with the case. The day the teenager disappeared, his mother could not get a hold of him and immediately contacted authorities, Desiree Pelletier said. The teen's mother also reached out to the cousins who were with Pelletier, who said the group had been smoking marijuana, which is when the 18-year-old began to panic and pull out a knife, Pelletier's aunt noted. But his aunt said that alleged behavior "is not Gio" and that it does "not align" with who he is. Courtesy Desiree Pelletier - PHOTO: The search continues for 18-year-old Giovanni Pelletier from North Carolina, who disappeared last week after vacationing with relatives in Florida, according to his family and the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office. The cousins also told police that Pelletier "began to act erratically before exiting the vehicle," according to a statement from the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office last week. The cousins claimed they were driving on I-75 when Pelletier got out near SR-70, authorities said. On Friday, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office said the cousins had been interviewed by officials and "continue to be fully cooperative in all aspects of the investigation." Officials also said they "took in the vehicle that the three young men were driving at the time they traveled to the West Coast of Florida." This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The Massachusetts Department of Public Health raised the risk level for West Nile Virus, or WNV, to high in many communities, urging residents to protect themselves against the mosquito-borne disease. "WNV findings in mosquitoes have accelerated rapidly over the last several weeks," State Epidemiologist Catherine Brown said. "We are now in the peak time for the transmission of mosquito-borne disease to people, and it is important for people to know that so they can take steps to protect themselves." Health officials raised the risk level for several municipalities, including Boston, due to "ongoing evidence of mosquito samples carrying the virus." Since June 17, DPH said,168 WNV-positive mosquito samples have been detected across 12 Massachusetts counties. One case of West Nile has also been confirmed in a goat in Lunenburg, DPH said. No human cases have been reported so far this summer. The virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the continental U.S., according to the CDC. There are no vaccines or medicines in use for the disease, the CDC states. Though many infected people do not feel sick, some develop symptoms like a fever and few become seriously or fatally ill. In addition to Boston, the WNV risk level was raised in Acton, Bedford, Billerica, Brookline, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Dracut, Lowell, and Newton. DPH also raised risk levels to moderate for another mosquito-borne disease, Eastern equine encephalitis, in several communities. There have been seven EEE-positive mosquito samples detected in the state this year. "Both West Nile virus and EEE pose a risk to the people in Massachusetts," Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein said. "The weather remains warm and somewhat humid, which increases mosquito activity." In 2024, there were 19 human cases of West Nile reported in Massachusetts, and four human cases of EEE, one of which was fatal. The Boston Public Health Commission warned that people who are over the age of 50 or immunocompromised have a higher risk of developing serious illness from West Nile. Symptoms may include high fever, severe headache, confusion, lack of coordination, and muscle weakness, and residents suffering should "contact a health care provider immediately." Health officials urge residents to consider precautions, like wearing insect repellent outdoors, being wary of peak mosquito hours from dusk to dawn, covering skin while outdoors, draining standing water where mosquitoes may breed, and installing screens in windows and doors. 2025 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. NEED TO KNOW Dakota Cody Trenkle Jr., 13, was missing for three days until he was found at the bottom of a ravine on Wednesday, July 30 He was then airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he was placed in a medically induced coma On Wednesday, Aug. 13, his mother, Stephanie Neely, tells PEOPLE that despite Dakota still being at the start of the recovery process, his family is "very grateful for his progress" Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Jr., the 13-year-old boy who was missing for over three days before he was found at the bottom of a ravine, has woken up from an 11-day medically induced coma, his mother, Stephanie Neely, tells PEOPLE. "[It took] 11 long days after being missing for 80 hours for her to have hope that Cody was going to be okay," Neely says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dakota went missing on Sunday, July 27, after he was last seen skateboarding in Goose Creek Lake, Mo. The young teen went more than three days without food or water. On Wednesday, July 30, his brother discovered Dakotas skateboard a half a mile from their home. Later that day, the Farmington Correctional Center (FCC) K-9 unit deployed their bloodhound named Darrell, who found Dakota lying in a foot of water. courtesy Stephanie Neely Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he was placed in a medically induced coma with a brain bleed, his mom previously told PEOPLE. He suffered deep wounds to his body, as well as severe head trauma, several brain bleeds, an additional fracture on his skull, weakened kidneys and needed a ventilator to breathe. After nearly two weeks of Stephanie waiting by his bedside, Dakota was alert and there were signs of him waking up on Friday, Aug. 8, per the Facebook group dedicated to providing updates, titled "Dakota Strong." courtesy Stephanie Neely Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota "Cody" Trenkle By Saturday, Aug. 9, Stephanie tells PEOPLE that he was alert enough to share his affection by signing the American Sign Language gesture for I love you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That moment was pivotal to me. Its made the last couple weeks of stress, heartache, hope, gratitude, sadness, and pain worth it because that small gesture meant my boy was coming back to me, she says. He was off the ventilator by Sunday, Aug. 10. He is doing so well!! a post on the Facebook page read. We still have a long recovery road ahead, but this is huge progress!!!!!! courtesy Stephanie Neely Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota "Cody" Trenkle On Monday, Aug. 11, Dakota enjoyed his first meal: a burger and a Coke. When Cody was being weened off sedation, off the ventilator, and became more alert, he looked at me and said Mama, Im thirsty, I need a 16 ounce coke from McDonalds! Neely says. The next day, I had ordered him a Whopper from Burger King in hopes to get him to eat." 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. courtesy Stephanie Neely Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota "Cody" Trenkle After Cody woke up, he was still on sedation for a few days to help ease him out of the coma, Neely explains to PEOPLE. She notes as of Wednesday, Aug. 13, he is no longer on sedation, so the last 24 hours have been very difficult for him pain-wise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He cant walk due to injuries and also loss of muscle mass during his time in the coma, she says. He is struggling to talk for long periods of time out of pure exhaustion, the pneumonia, and his other infections he is fighting. Neely previously told NBC affiliate KSDK that the water caused him to contract "a lot of infectious bacteria," which led him to develop pneumonia. Additionally, because he fell into the 240-foot deep ravine, he also suffered severe wounds on his back because he was submerged for so long. courtesy Stephanie Neely Dakota "Cody" Trenkle Dakota "Cody" Trenkle His brain injuries are still very prominent, and are being monitored very closely, Neely tells PEOPLE. She notes that he will be transferred to a pediatric hospital inpatient unit that specializes in physical, occupational, and psychological therapies. We are very grateful for his progress and pleased we are finally moving in the right direction, she adds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I've known he was a fighter since he was born," Neely told KSDK. "He was born super preemie, and he fought for his life then, and now, almost 14 years later, he's doing it again." "Just proving to all of us just truly how strong he is, how resilient, and how stubborn he is, which is honestly what saved his life," Neely told KSDK. "He wasn't going to give up. And he's like, 'I'm not just gonna lay here and die.' For him to finally come out of it two weeks after he went missing is huge. Hes still proving to everyone, Im fighting, Im still here, I can survive. " Read the original article on People If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Dial or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free and confidential support. As teens head back to school this fall, many parents are worried about their mental health. And for good reason: Teens today especially girls are much more likely to say that they feel persistently sad or hopeless and think about suicide than they did a decade ago. Forty percent of high school students reported experiencing persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2023, according to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That figure was down from a high of 42% two years earlier, during the Covid-19 pandemic, but is about 10 percentage points higher than a decade earlier. Journalist Matt Richtel shares insight into why teens are so stressed out in his new book, How We Grow Up: Understanding Adolescence. - Mariner Books The journalist Matt Richtel sheds light on the teen mental health crisis and what can be done about it in his new book, How We Grow Up: Understanding Adolescence. Richtel, a Boulder, Colorado-based science reporter for The New York Times, spent four years researching adolescents for the book. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In our conversation, Richtel offered important insight into why teens are so stressed and what we can do about it. This conversation has been lightly edited and condensed for clarity. CNN: What explains todays teen mental health crisis? Matt Richtel: Adolescent mental health is best understood by understanding what adolescents are going through, and there is new science that helps explain it. They have a highly sensitized brain in a period of time when the world is moving very quickly, and they are receiving a ton of information. Sometimes what they experience is a kind of information overload that looks like intense rumination, anxiety and other mental health distress. CNN: Does a lot of that information overload come from social media? Richtel: Sort of. There is a misconception that the phone is the singular or overwhelming source of the problem. In fact, the science is more complicated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the 1980s, adolescents faced immense challenges with binge drinking, drunk driving, early experimentation with sex, injury and death. Those risks have fallen sharply. Whats important about that context is that it tells us there is a larger issue going on during this pivotal life period and that merely taking the phones away will not solve it. There is reason to limit access to phones because screen time displaces sleep, exercise and in-person interactions. At the same time, the challenges adolescents face come from a larger phenomenon. CNN: What is the larger phenomenon to explain why adolescence is such a tough time? Richtel: Adolescence is a process with a very important purpose: the integration of the known and unknown in a fast-changing world. The known is what your parents tell you is true, like you should read books. The unknown is what actually works as this world is changing. For instance, maybe books arent the thing anymore. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This integration of known and unknown creates an enormous sense of internal conflict for an adolescent. My parents, who love me and feed me, told me one thing, but I am discovering something else. This is happening against the backdrop of the falling age of puberty. As puberty happens earlier, it sensitizes the adolescent brain earlier in life to all this information at a time when the rest of their brain isnt particularly equipped to deal with it. This creates a kind of neurological mismatch between what an adolescent can take in and what they can process. Parents are the biggest influencers in their children's lives, according to Richtel. - Halfpoint Images/Moment RF/Getty Images CNN: Does this also help explain why teens often dont listen to their parents? Richtel: Yes. They dont listen to their parents because theyre making a transition from being cared for by their parents to needing to learn to care for themselves and their offspring. Some of the research about how teens stop listening to their parents and start listening to strangers is almost funny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometimes when your kids look at you with that blank face, youre not looking at a jerk but at evolutionary biology. I would say to parents, please dont take this stuff personally. You can say to your kid, Hey, please stop! You sound like a jerk. I dont like that. But thats very different from taking it personally. CNN: You call this generation of teens Generation Rumination. Why? Richtel: Adolescents are programmed to explore the world around them. In the old days, that exploration happened outside. Im going to forge this river. Im going to climb this mountain. Im going to jump off this roof. Particularly since the 1960s, but even more so now, a lot of exploration happens on the inward side. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it happened on the outside, there were a lot of broken bones. In the last few decades, weve seen more people with mental health questions. Questions have emerged in the past 20 years that no one bothered to talk about previously. Like what is a boy and what is a girl? As uncomfortable as it is for people, its part of the survival mechanism of the human species, to have adolescents explore for themselves and for others. CNN: You say that many teens dont know why they feel awful when they have loving families and all their physical needs are met. Why? Richtel: Heres an example of what its like to feel like an adolescent. Lets say, as a parent, you get in a fight with your spouse the same day that your boss leaves. Then you get a bad night of sleep, and the next day youre driving down the road and you look over and see a driver who gives you a look. You experience road rage. Its not all about that driver. And maybe that driver was actually smiling. Its about the combination of factors that have led you to feel really intensely. We feel like that occasionally as parents. Adolescents feel like that all the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, when they say they dont understand why they feel that way, I think we can empathize, or at least sympathize as parents, that when youre highly sensitized to your environment with a bit less sleep and a lot of moving parts, its overwhelming. CNN: Some people think the reason more teens have mental health problems today is because we diagnose and talk about them more than in the past. Or do more teens actually have mental health problems now? Richtel: I think both things are true. There are more teens with mental health challenges, and we are scrutinizing it greatly. CNN: You say that social media affects different kids very differently. Why is this? Richtel: Some kids, interestingly, are actually in a better mood after using social media. Some kids are in a worse mood. It really depends on your genetic predisposition and how much you use it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you use it all the time, youre displacing things we know to be really healthy (like sleep, exercise and in-person interactions). Thats really important. But using it in the moment can affect different kids differently. Some kids wind up happier. If youre lonely and you want to connect with somebody, thats different than if youre predisposed to compare yourself with somebody else and every time you see the ostensibly healthy, wealthy, beautiful person online, you say, I am terrible by comparison. Or you see the fit person online and say, I need to stop eating. But not everybody has that predisposition. CNN: As kids head back to school, what advice do you have for parents when their teens get overwhelmed? Richtel: We need to teach our kids coping skills. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of what they need is to let the emotion out, not to try to have a rational conversation. If your kiddo says, Everyone in the ninth grade hates me, thats not so rational. Its probably a product of a whole bunch of things, such as sleeplessness, a bad experience or trying to deal with a lot of information. The coping skills were talking about here include things like putting your face in the snow, taking a cold shower or exercise, all of which allow your neurotransmitters and neurochemicals to settle down. If you can afford it, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy are tools that let people understand that these sensations theyre having in their bodies can be addressed and let go of, so that the next day you can have the question, Does everyone in ninth grade really hate me? Oh, yeah, Doug likes me, I forgot. So does Sarah. Its going to be OK. But, in the moment, if you try to have that conversation with your kid, youre adding more information to a brain thats already paralyzed. An overwhelmed kid is like a computer with a blue screen. When were adding more information, its like hitting the enter key over and over again. Its not going to do anything. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Let them emote without trying to talk reason. Its hard for them to be rational in the midst of overload, so wait until theyre ready to listen to you. Parents really are the biggest influencers in their kids lives. Kara Alaimo is an associate professor of communication at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Her book Over the Influence: Why Social Media Is Toxic for Women and Girls And How We Can Take It Back was published in 2024 by Alcove Press. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com NEED TO KNOW An 18-year-old trapeze artist performing with Circus Smirkus suffered an injury after being involved in a rigging incident Wrentham Police Chief William McGrath said the incident happened during a July 22 performance at the Cracker-Barrel Fairground in Wrentham, Mass. He said officers received a report that the performer fell between 10 and 20 feet from the air while using aerial silks and was suspected of having a spinal cord injury A circus performer reportedly suffered a serious fall, which prompted his circus troupe to cancel several upcoming performances. In a statement on their website, Circus Smirkus said one of its members was involved in a rigging incident during one of its "Big Top Tour" performances, resulting in injuries. No further details about the performers condition were released. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trouper involved is a beloved member of the Smirkus family, the company said in a statement. Their spirit, generosity, and dedication in and out of the ring shines. We are holding their family in our hearts as we root them on towards recovery. As a result of the incident, Circus Smirkus cancelled several upcoming performance on their tour. The group noted that the tour will close out with two shows set for Sunday, Aug. 17 at their headquarters in Greensboro, Vt. While the circus did not share any other details about the injured troupe member, it was reported by The Newport Daily Express that it was an 18-year-old trapeze performer who was injured during a July 22 performance at the Cracker-Barrel Fairground in Wrentham, Mass. Wrentham Police Chief William McGrath told the outlet that officers received a report about a performer who had fallen between 10 and 20 feet while using aerial silks. They were suspected of having a spinal cord injury. Officers were dispatched to the site just before 8 p.m. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When officers arrived on the scene, the victim was alert, conscious and able to speak," McGrath told the outlet, adding that a nurse attending the show provided initial aid to the performer. The outlet reported that the injured performer was treated for their injuries at a trauma hospital in Rhode Island. Circus Smirkus Executive and Artistic Director Rachel Schiffer told the outlet that, Fortunately, the performer is expected to recover from the injuries sustained in the fall. 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. Stan Grossfeld/Getty Circus Smirkus performers warming up in July 2025 Circus Smirkus performers warming up in July 2025 Circus Smirkus and the Wrentham Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for Circus Smirkus told The Hardwick Gazette that safety is paramount and a serious component in all of the training and performances. According to The Newport Daily Express, professional circus organizations have to maintain safety protocols to ensure the safety of their performers. When accidents do rarely occur, Despite this, rare accidents can still occur. In those instances, the company is expected to investigate what went wrong and implent changes to prevent similar accidents in the future. Read the original article on People CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) Five teenagers between the ages of 13 and 15 years old are facing charges for robbing a business, according to Charlotte Mecklenburg Police. On July 30, police say six teenagers assaulted an employee and stole items from a cannabis dispensary on East Third Street. The juveniles were seen then getting on the light rail headed towards the transit center. Using the Real Time Crime Center, officers, K9 and Professional Police Services found five of the six teenagers. Officers say they recovered the stolen items as well as an airsoft pistol the teens tossed when running from the business. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Legal Analyst: Police can search for marijuana, but what about hemp? The five teenagers are all charged with Common Law Robbery, Conspiracy to Commit Common Law Robbery and Resist, Delay, Obstruct. One of the five was taken to the Juvenile Detention Center in connection with an unrelated matter, and the other four were released to the custody of their guardians. Police say they have also identified the sixth teenager. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 group of teenagers arrested in early July on suspicion of attacking a family at a Santa Fe Burger King are now accused in the fatal shooting of a homeless man in Albuquerque in the early morning before the Santa Fe incident. Alexis Monrroy, 19, Isaiah Salazar, 15, and Xavier Dimas, 16, are each charged with an open count of murder, conspiracy to commit murder and vehicle theft in the Albuquerque incident early July 2 that led to the death of Frank Howard, 45, Albuquerque police announced Wednesday. Monrroy also faces charges of contributing to the delinquency of minors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was part of, and encouraged his group to commit a senseless violent act on an innocent citizen, prosecutors wrote in a motion requesting a court order for Monrroy to be detained until his trial. Defendant presents a serious danger to the community, as there is no way to know who could be the next target for this group, or what they may do to further avoid responsibility for their actions. Three girls who participated in the groups alleged boozy joyride Santiana Martinez, 12, Felicia Nguyen, 14, and Christy Whiteface, 14 have been charged with auto theft and property damage in connection with the incident. Some five hours after the shooting, most members of the group were arrested in Santa Fe, accused in an attack at a Burger King restaurant that left a pregnant woman injured. Albuquerque police spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos said in a statement the three girls were charged but released in the Santa Fe incident, but Salazar and Dimas, charged with aggravated assault, were booked into a juvenile detention center in Farmington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Monrroy, who wasnt charged in the Burger King incident, was released after an interview with Albuquerque investigators in Howards death but arrested again earlier this month, along with the other five suspects. Santa Fe police assisted in the arrests, Deputy Chief Ben Valdez wrote in a news release, taking Monrroy, Dimas and Martinez into custody. Custody of all three individuals was turned over to the Albuquerque Police Department, Valdez wrote. Monrroy is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Albuquerque. Gallegos did not respond to questions about where the other teens and 12-year-old Martinez are being held. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An attorney for Monrroy could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday evening. Wanted to fight someone Salazar, Dimas, Monrroy and Nguyen are accused of stealing a black Hyundai in Santa Fe early the morning of July 2 and driving it to Albuquerque, where they picked up Whiteface and Martinez; they drank for about an hour while joyriding around the city, Albuquerque police wrote in a criminal complaint filed in Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court. Around 3:20 a.m., the group spotted Howard at a bus stop near Menaul Boulevard and Eubank Boulevard NE; they began antagonizing him from the car, the complaint alleges, with Dimas telling police he wanted to scare the male and fight someone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Surveillance video footage shows the teens parked the car, the complaint states. Dimas told officers he and Salazar approached Howard, further antagonizing him while the older man chirped back. Howard then turned to run, and the teens chased him, according to police. Dimas said he heard Salazar rack his gun. Both he and Monrroy indicated to investigators they saw Salazar shoot Howard as he fled from them, the complaint states. An autopsy revealed Howard was shot in the back. During a search of Dimas phone, the complaint alleges, police found a Snapchat conversation with another person in which he claimed responsibility for the shooting messages Dimas later said Salazar forced him to send. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While officers held the teens in interview rooms, some of them discussed pinning the murder on others, police allege. On the road to Santa Fe The teens had abandoned the black Hyundai after the shooting in Albuquerque and stole a maroon Hyundai, which they abandoned off Interstate 25 near Algodones, the criminal complaint alleges. Monrroy told police Salazar and Dimas are involved with the Kia Boys, referencing an internet trend in which people take advantage of design flaws in some Hyundai and Kia vehicles that allow them to be started and stolen quickly and easily. A man who lives nearby told police the six juveniles showed up at his home that morning and told them their car had broken down, so he gave them a ride to Santa Fe, where he works. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close to 30 minutes after the man dropped off the teens, Santa Fe police were called to the Burger King on Zafarano Drive, where they were accused of assaulting a couple who were eating breakfast at the restaurant with a young child. Monrroy told police a fight started after Dimas pulled down his pants in front of the man, prompting a confrontation, the complaint states, adding Dimas and Salazar punched the man while the girls started fighting with the woman, who was pregnant. She was hit in the eye and taken to a hospital for treatment, according to the complaint. Monrroy said Salazar had shown him a gun and then concealed it, the complaint states. The document alleges Salazar threw the gun onto the porch of a home near the Burger King, but police recovered it and deemed it a presumptive match to a bullet casing found at the scene of Howards death. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another firearm incident Earlier this year, Monrroy pleaded guilty to a charge of attempted contributing to the delinquency of a minor in an incident involving Salazar. The two had bought food from WingStop in Santa Fe on Nov. 6 and were walking Monrroys puppy at an apartment building near the Santa Fe Country Club when they came under gunfire from two people near the front entrance of the complex, according to court records. Monrroy told police he grabbed the dog and ran inside with Salazar. Police later found a gun in a trash can, which Monrroy said was Salazars, adding he believed Salazar, then 14, carried the weapon for protection. It was not clear Wednesday whether Salazar has been convicted of any other charges prior to the July incidents. Temperatures continue to heat up across New Mexico through Thursday. A surge of monsoon moisture will bring showers and storms across New Mexico starting Friday. High pressure is making its way towards New Mexico Wednesday. The effects are already being felt with hotter temperatures and fewer showers and storms. Still, spotty to isolated storms have popped up mainly over the mountain ranges in the state. These will end quickly after sunset with mild overnight low temperatures. Another round of isolated showers and storms will return Thursday afternoon as high pressure moves right over northern New Mexico. This will also bring the hottest weather of the week, with a few places reaching near-record high temperatures. By Friday afternoon, a traditional monsoon pattern sets up as high pressure moves to the east of New Mexico drawing up a surge of monsoon moisture from the south. This will fuel scattered showers and thunderstorms Friday afternoon for areas along and west of the central mountain chain, leaving eastern New Mexico dry. Temperatures will also be slightly cooler. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That plume of monsoon moisture gets tilted more to the northeast this weekend, bringing drier weather back to the Four Corners area once again. Meanwhile, the rest of New Mexico will see daily thunderstorm chances through at least the middle of next week. These storms will be capable of heavy rainfall and flash flooding. A burn scar flash flooding threat will return to southern New Mexico as early as Friday afternoon. Temperatures will also be slightly cooler with the increase in monsoon moisture and rain chances. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 glacial flooding that sent residents of Alaska's capital city scrambling this week has become an annual ordeal for those who live along the picturesque river that winds from the nearby Mendenhall Glacier. This year, a giant wall of reinforced sandbags erected with the help of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers held back the worst of the flooding in Juneau, to residents' great relief. The damage was nothing like what happened the last two years, when flooding was rampant and some homes washed away. But the wall is merely a temporary barrier. The effort to devise a permanent solution is complicated by what scientists don't yet know about how human-caused global warming will impact the yearly outbursts of water from an ice dam at the glacier. Juneau is just one of many communities around the globe struggling to engineer a way out of the worst damage from climate change. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We cant keep doing this, said Ann Wilkinson Lind, who lives on the banks of the Mendenhall River. We need a levee or some other permanent fix. ... This is an emergency situation that cant take 10 years for this study and that study and every other study. It needs to be done now. The Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Juneau, home to 30,000 people in southeast Alaska, and is a popular tourist attraction due to its proximity 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 glacial outburst flooding from the Mendenhall is itself a phenomenon caused by climate change, which is thinning glaciers around the world. A glacier nearby retreated, leaving behind a large bowl Suicide Basin that fills each spring and summer with rainwater and snowmelt dammed by the Mendenhall. When that water builds up enough pressure, it forces its way under or around the ice dam, enters Mendenhall Lake, and flows down the Mendenhall River toward Juneau. Flooding from the basin has been an annual concern since 2011 and has gotten worse, with new water-level records being set each of the last three years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement City officials responded this year by working with state, federal and tribal entities to install the temporary barrier along roughly 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) of riverbank. The 10,000 Hesco barriers are essentially giant, reinforced sandbags intended to protect more than 460 properties, said emergency manager Ryan OShaughnessy. The Juneau Assembly required homeowners in the flood zone to cover 40% of the barrier's cost about $6,300 each over 10 years. Additionally, a handful of homeowners were asked to chip in $50,000 toward reinforcing the river bank. About one-quarter of the residents formally objected, not enough to torpedo the project. This week, some water seeped between the bastions or through pipes underneath them that are designed to allow water to drain from yards into the river. Valves in the pipes are supposed to prevent floodwater from entering. But officials uniformly called the project a success, while acknowledging that some homes were damaged and that the barrier needs to be further extended. The barriers are designed to last for up to 10 years to allow time for a long-term solution. But questions abound. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The capacity of Suicide Basin seems to be growing, and scientists aren't sure what a worst-case flood might look like. They predict that within a few decades, the Mendenhall itself will retreat far enough that it no longer acts as a dam, eliminating the risk of a flood outburst from Suicide Basin. But the persistent melting could also form other glacially dammed lakes that could function in a similar way. Theres still a lot to be learned, said Nate Rumsey, Juneau's engineering and public works deputy director. We have to assume this will be an annual event for the next many, many years. Is something like a temporary, soil-filled basket levy the best we can do over that period of time? ... Weve got to keep looking for a long-term solution. The Army Corps of Engineers has nearly $5 million set aside to begin working on a long-term solution, which for now largely consists of data collection. Its like trying to solve a math problem when the variables are always changing, Army Corps Brig. Gen. Clete Goetz said Thursday. Seeing the problem is not the hard part. Engineering the solution is the challenge. Thats what were here for. ___ This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Nate Rumsey's last name. ___ Johnson and Attanasio reported from Seattle. Rush reported from Portland, Oregon. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said he's willing to send National Guard troops to Washington, DC to aid with a federal takeover. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout) Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said Wednesday he is ready to deploy National Guard troops to Washington, D.C. as part of President Donald Trumps federal takeover of the police force there. Lee said he spoke with U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, who told him the military could be requesting states to send troops to the nations capital for law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I told him we would be obviously willing to work with them on whatever they needed. The current status, I cannot speak to, but the request of interest was made, and I expressed interest, Lee said in a press conference following a groundbreaking for Australian-owned Barrett Firearms south of Murfreesboro. The governors statement provides another example that he is prepared to use Tennessee National Guard personnel for nearly every request the president makes. Recently, Lee mobilized Guard members to provide backing for federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement as it continues efforts on mass deportation. Guard personnel are to help with paperwork and logistics to give ICE agents more time to concentrate on arresting immigrants who lack documentation for permanent citizenship. In addition to deportation efforts, Trump ordered the feds to wrest control of the Washington, D.C. police department using National Guard troops in a purported emergency move to cut crime in what he called a lawless city. Local officials criticized the move, saying the city has seen a major decrease in crime in the last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under federal law, the president could run the police department for 30 days, though the time frame could be stretched. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Terry Cole reportedly said federal troops would be embedded with the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) An organization helping formerly incarcerated people get back on their feet broke ground on a new facility in Wedgewood Houston. The Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry broke ground on the expanded Morgan House Thursday, Aug. 14, along with community leaders, faith-based partners and state officials. According to TPOM, the Morgan House is a transitional reentry home for women returning from incarceration. The facility serves as a beacon of hope for women seeking stability, healing and purpose after incarceration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neighborhood News: Stories impacting your community | Read More The new facility will increase the ministrys capacity, provide more individualized care and strengthen the efforts to reduce recidivism in Middle Tennessee, according to TPOM. Development and Recruitment Specialist Mary McCrary said in a release the work at the Morgan House centers around providing safe housing, faith-based counseling, job readiness training, and community support to those in their care. (Courtesy: Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry) Miss Morgan left TPOM the land that will house the Morgan House when she passed (Courtesy: Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry) (Courtesy: Tennessee Prison Outreach Ministry) With limited transitional housing available for justice-impacted women, expansions like those at the Morgan House fill a critical gap. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Franklin defers decision on Hillview Lane development The name for the facility comes from a former neighbor of TPOM. In a previous interview, the organization told News 2 Mrs. Morgan was a beloved figure for the men in their program. Initially reticent of a transitional program moving in next door to the home shed had for years, Mrs. Morgan grew to love the men who came through TPOM. They formed lasting bonds that continued even after Morgans passing in 2018. When she died, Morgan left her home and its land to TPOM, according to McCrary, and that is why the new womens facility bears her name: in remembrance to her legacy. Do you have news happening in your neighborhood? Let us know by sending an email to neighborhoodnews@wkrn.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. NORFOLK A Virginia Beach man was found guilty Thursday of fatally shooting the adult son of a well-known local anti-violence advocate during a parking lot dispute. A jury in Norfolk Circuit Court deliberated for several hours over two days before finding Jalen Garces guilty of second-degree murder and using a firearm to commit a felony. Sentencing was set for Nov. 7. The highly emotional trial began Monday and the case was turned over to the jury late Wednesday. After repeated shouting matches broke out among family and friends of Garces and shooting victim Ali Muhammad, sheriffs deputies informed them Wednesday that only the parents of the two men would be allowed in the courtroom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The first known outburst happened Tuesday. It began outside the courthouse and spilled into the lobby. The second occurred Wednesday outside the sixth-floor courtroom. Several deputies rushed to break up the two sides, then escorted them out of the building. When the verdict was announced Thursday, Garces, 30, remained stoic, while Muhammads parents, Bilal and Cynthia Muhammad, quietly wept and whispered thank you to the jury. This is a blessed day, Bilal Muhammad said after he walked out of the courthouse. My wife and I are so happy. We can sleep just a little better tonight. Just a little better. Ali Muhammad, the couples youngest child, was shot around 10:30 p.m. June 29, 2023, outside an Ocean View apartment building where he lived. The 33-year-old man worked nights as a floor tech and was preparing to drive to work when he discovered a black Ford Mustang blocking his SUV, preventing him from pulling out of his parking space. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A witness testified Wednesday that he was walking through the parking lot when Muhammad asked if he knew who the car belonged to, but the man didnt know. Bilal Muhammad told jurors he was on the phone with his son when Ali told him that someone had blocked his car in and wouldnt move it. Next, he said he heard Ali tell someone to Get that gun out of my face, before hearing a single gunshot. Another witness testified she was sitting in her car on the other side of the parking lot when she saw two people arguing. She said she was looking at her phone when she heard a gunshot. When she looked up, one person was on the ground and the other was driving away in the Mustang. The woman called 911, provided a description of the car, as well as the direction it was headed. Detectives were able to identify the car and its license plate by using Flock surveillance camera footage from the area. They were able to determine who was driving it through footage obtained from a Wawa convenience store and an ABC liquor store the car stopped at before the shooting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garces was arrested for DUI in Virginia Beach a couple of days later, and the 2019 Mustang he was driving was turned over to Norfolk police. Detailed information downloaded from the vehicles infotainment system showed it was in the exact spot, and at the exact time, that the shooting occurred. Information from Garces phone also placed him there, prosecutors argued. During his closing arguments to the jury, defense attorney Daymen Robinson didnt deny that Garces was the man driving the Mustang that night. But he argued there was no evidence that Garces was the one who fired the gun. Robinson suggested it could have been someone who lived in the apartment building who had a problem with Muhammad. He also argued that it was ridiculous to suggest that his client would kill a person over a parking dispute. Deputy Commonwealths Attorney William Maydosz disagreed. Sometimes crimes are senseless, Maydosz told jurors. It was senseless, but it happened. Jane Harper, jane.harper@pilotonline.com The Brief Some Texas City residents sought to recall Mayor Dedrick Johnson for alleged corruption and transparency violations. Police say they've confirmed a deceased person's information was used in the recall petition. Anyone with more information can call the Texas City PD (409-643-5838). TEXAS CITY, Texas - Texas City detectives are looking into fraud reports regarding the recall petition against the city's mayor. Texas City mayor recall: Petition fraud claims What we know Police say they've received multiple citizen complaints about possible fraud related to the recall petition against Mayor Dedrick Johnson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They say that a deceased person's name, address, and signature were used on the petition. As of Wednesday, police say there are no charges or arrests in connection with this situation. However, authorities are working with the Galveston County District Attorney's Office to determine if criminal charges are possible. What we don't know No other information is available at this time. What they're saying Texas City Police added the following to their statement: "Given the seriousness of these allegations, we are committed to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and uphold all applicable laws." What you can do Anyone who has more information can call the Texas City PD Criminal Investigations Division by calling 409-643-5838. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone who believes they were a fraud victim in this situation can go to the Texas City website to check your information. Recall petition against mayor The backstory The petition was filed to recall Texas City Mayor Dedrick Johnson. An affidavit filed by resident Joshua McMeekin alleges Mayor Johnson violated the Texas Open Meetings Act and the Public Information Act. The document also criticizes the mayors handling of public records, police staffing, and what it describes as political interference in economic development. The mayor said in an interview that residents had the right to organize, but felt the call for the recall was baseless. The Source Texas City Police and previous FOX 26 reporting. The Brief The Texas City Police Officer Peter Behler seen in a tense arrest video out of Kemah has been on the news before, according to FOX 26 prior reporting. In 2013, Behler was indicted on charges of official oppression, along with two other officers concerning an arrest they made in Nassau Bay. Documents say the then-25-year-old Webster Police Officer Behler was accused of beating the man he was arresting while the man was on the ground. The Webster Police Department confirmed Behler resigned from the department in April 2014. HOUSTON - The Texas City Police Officer Peter Behler seen in a tense arrest video out of Kemah has been on the news before, according to FOX 26 prior reporting. What we know In 2013, Behler was indicted on charges of official oppression, along with two other officers concerning an arrest they made in Nassau Bay. Documents say the then 25-year-old Webster Police Officer Behler was accused of beating the man he was arresting while the man was on the ground. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Facebook post from Behler's attorney at the time says Behler was found not guilty by a Harris County jury in 2016. The Webster Police Department confirmed Behler resigned from the department in April 2014. Dig deeper The man Behler is seen arresting in the 2025 video also has a mug shot from years prior. Records show that Weston Mabee was charged with robbery bodily injury in Harris County in 2018. The then-18-year-old is accused of stealing $1,400 from an acquaintance's wallet and then firing a gun when the victim tried to follow him, according to records. Records show Mabee took a plea deal and was sentenced to four years confinement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On August 11, Behler initiated contact with Mabee in a shopping complex parking lot at 417 FM 517 in Kemah due to a fictitious license plate, according to a TCPD release. TCPD says in the release that Mabee hit officer Behler when escorted to the front of the patrol unit, while charging documents say Behler hit the officer once he was taken to the ground. A witness and Mabee's partner say Mabee didn't hit the officer. Mabee's partner shared a video of Behler on top of Mabee during the altercation that gained traction on social media. Mabee was charged with assault of a peace officer and was booked into the Galveston County Jail on a $100,000 bond. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement FOX 26 has requested the body camera and dash camera video of the incident, along with records of any complaints formerly filed on Behler. The Source FOX 26 Reporter Abigail Dye took a look at past misconduct cases. 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, Ben Kamisar and Natasha Korecki report on how Democratic lawmakers who fled Texas amid the redistricting fight are beginning to consider their end game. Plus, Andrea Mitchell explores how President Donald Trump is leaving his mark on institutions across the nations capital. Sign up to receive this newsletter in your inbox every weekday here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Adam Wollner Texas Democrats plot their exit strategy By Ben Kamisar and Natasha Korecki With Texas expected to end its first special legislative session Friday and immediately begin a new one, the dozens of Democratic legislators who fled the state to block Republicans redistricting proposal are hammering out a plan for their return home. Texas Democrats met late into the night Tuesday then again Wednesday, including breaking into smaller groups, to discuss their next steps and what their ultimate exit strategy looked like after spending the last 10 days out of the state, according to four sources close to the talks. But those sources said the lawmakers do not yet have full consensus on an exit plan. Its hard to get folks on the same page, said one of the sources, who was granted anonymity to speak candidly about internal party strategy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Still, there does appear to be agreement on one point: The Democrats wont come back to Austin until Republicans officially bring the first special session to a close. Theyre beginning to describe their ability to block Republicans from passing their new map that could net the party as many as five seats in the U.S. House during the first special session as proof of victory. Our commitment was only to kill this corrupt special session. What we will do, what were going to do in the future, were in discussions right now, Texas Democratic Caucus Chairman Gene Wu said Wednesday on Meet the Press NOW. Wu said they would not finalize their next steps until there was consensus among our membership. But he noted Democrats have other avenues to push back against the GOPs redistricting effort in the courts, through the legislative process and with other states, like California, countering with new congressional maps. We can fight this fight for as long as we can do it. But we have other strategies, other methods of fighting it, Wu said. It does not have to be just a quorum break, it does not have to be just one thing or the other. We can throw everything at this. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republican leaders in Texas have promised to call special session after special session, and they need just a handful of Democrats to relent in order to achieve a quorum in the state House so they can move forward with their redistricting plan. So while it appears likely that Democrats will succeed in delaying the process enough to force a second special session, there is an acknowledgement among the caucus that their protest will need to come to an end some point soon. From the get-go, they knew they were never going to stay out of Texas forever. People didnt expect them to. The goal that the smartest among them set was: We need to bring national attention to this issue so other states are ready to counter if Republicans really do this, one aide to a Texas House Democrat breaking quorum told NBC News. Read more from Ben and Natasha Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related: How redistricting became the burning hot center of Democratic politics How Trump is reshaping D.C. Analysis by Andrea Mitchell President Donald Trump at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday. (Alex Brandon / AP) President Donald Trump is not just taking over the police in the nations capital, with FBI and DEA agents on nighttime patrols in Georgetown and armored vehicles lined up in front of the Washington Monument. Today, the recently self-appointed chair of the Kennedy Center announced he will be the first American president to host the annual Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in December. The event was originally emceed by Walter Cronkite and then Caroline Kennedy, but more recently by entertainers like Gloria Estefan and Queen Latifah. Trump also told reporters he was 98% involved in choosing this years honorees for one of the nations highest lifetime achievement awards: Sylvester Stallone, Michael Crawford, George Strait, Gloria Gaynor and Kiss. Unlike his predecessors, Trump never hosted the awardees at the White House nor attended the gala concert in his first term, citing criticism from some of the Hollywood stars being celebrated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Elsewhere in Washington, the administration now plans to put its stamp on eight of the Smithsonian Institutions museums, including American history, African American history, air and space, and the National Museum of the American Indian. They all operate without charge and are among the citys most popular tourist destinations. The White House says it wants to ensure that the museums are celebrating American exceptionalism before next years celebration of the nations 250th anniversary. The criticism by many, if not most, historians is that this risks distorting the reality of Americas founding, which includes the reality that the genius of the Founding Fathers creation was scarred by the reality that they were all white, male and largely property owners including many slave owners. It spawned a reckoning that eventually led to the brutality of the Civil War, followed by a century of legalized segregation, and continuing generational poverty and second-class citizenship for millions of Americans. The administration has already had an impact on the Smithsonian, whose board is led by the chief justice of the Supreme Court and by statute also includes the vice president. The widely acclaimed director of the National Portrait Gallery, criticized by the White House, resigned. The American history and African American history museums have both been under fire. According to the 6,000-member Organization of American Historians, the nations museums and historic parks are under assault by Trumps March 27 executive order titled Restoring Truth and Sanity to American History. A White House spokesman calls it common sense. Critics say this culture battle is an outgrowth of a war on facts, with more serious implications when it comes to the recent cancellation of long-proved scientific conclusions about climate change and the efficacy of vaccines. In a phrase coined by the late Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Youre entitled to your opinion, but not your facts. Today's other top stories Thats all From the Politics Desk for now. Todays newsletter was compiled by Adam Wollner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If you have feedback likes or dislikes email us at politicsnewsletter@nbcuni.com And if youre a fan, please share with everyone and anyone. They can sign up here. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has issued a disaster declaration for 191 counties as dangerous wildfire conditions threaten communities across the state. The declaration mobilizes state emergency resources, including firefighting aircraft, helicopters, and over 100 personnel. With temperatures soaring and vegetation bone-dry, Texas faces its most serious wildfire threat of the summer. The Texas A&M Forest Service elevated its preparedness level, warning that conditions could rapidly deteriorate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our No. 1 priority is to protect the safety and well-being of Texans across the state, said Abbott. Today, I issued a disaster declaration to provide all necessary resources to communities who could be affected by wildfires. Texans are urged to regularly monitor wildfire conditions and heed the guidance of local officials and emergency management personnel to protect yourselves and your loved ones. The Texas Division of Emergency Management activated multiple state agencies at Abbotts direction. Resources now deployed include bulldozers, fire engines, and specialized aircraft for dropping fire retardant. The Texas National Guard dispatched Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters equipped for firefighting missions. These aircraft can deliver water to areas inaccessible by ground crews. Summer weather conditions create a perfect storm for wildfire outbreaks. Strong winds, low humidity, and drought-stressed vegetation combine to elevate risks statewide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State officials urged residents to avoid outdoor burning and activities that could spark fires. Creating defensible space around homes and preparing evacuation plans are critical safety measures. The disaster declaration enables faster deployment of resources to affected communities. Local officials can now request immediate state assistance without bureaucratic delays. Texas A&M Forest Service personnel stand ready with engines, bulldozers, and motor graders. Federal contractors provide additional aerial support, including surveillance aircraft for spotting new fires. Texans can find wildfire prevention information at TexasReady.gov and current fire conditions at tfsweb.tamu.edu. Emergency preparedness resources are available at tdem.texas.gov/prepare. AUSTIN (Nexstar) Texas House Democratic leader Gene Wu, D-Houston, said the caucuss eventual return is based on what Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas, decides to put on the second special sessions call sheet. What happens next is entirely up to Greg Abbott, Wu said in a statement. After deliberation among our caucus, we have reached a consensus: Texas House Democrats refuse to give him a quorum to pass his racist maps that silence more than 2 million Black and Latino Texans in keeping with our original promise to Texans, the First Called Special Session will never make quorum again, defeating Abbotts first attempt at passing his racial gerrymander. Texas Legislature: What is a quorum? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wu has led over 50 Texas House Democrats over the last two weeks, after they fled to Democratic states across the country to prevent the House from reaching a quorumthe two-thirds threshold needed to take any official action. On Tuesday, Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, said the House and Senate will end the first special session on Friday morning if the Democrats do not return. Abbott would subsequently call a second 30-day special session to start on Friday. Wu said well know more about their intentions then. Texas House Democrats will issue our demands for a second special session on Friday, he wrote. Abbott can choose to govern for Texas families, or he can keep serving Trump and face the consequences weve unleashed nationwide. Nineteen hours prior to Wus statement, ABC 13 Houston reported that the quorum breakers had decided to come home for the special session, although with no official return date. A source close to the situation told Nexstar the caucus was debating the issue, but no decisions had been made. Another pair of sources close to the caucus had not heard of any return plans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Members are still assessing their strategies going forward and are in meetings to make decisions about future plans currently, the caucus posted on X in the immediate aftermath of the ABC report. 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. Earlier Monday morning, State Rep. Gina Hinojosa, D-Austin, also released a statement highlighting the quorum breakers resolve. Texas House Democrats are standing strong because we have the people and the Constitution on our side. Thats why the governor is folding and ending his special session early, she wrote. As Ive said since this quorum break began, we are taking things day by day and fighting to win each day. If Governor Abbott and Republicans want us to come home, they can drop this shameful and undemocratic power grab and refocus on what Texans deserve prioritizing flood relief and helping communities rebuild. Abbott weighed in on Wus statement over social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement How embarrassing. Texas Democrats mailing in their demands FROM CHICAGO, Abbott wrote. Come back and fight like Texans rather than running and hiding like cowards. Democrats fundamentally misunderstand Texans, Abbotts Press Secretary Andrew Mahaleris wrote. Texans expect their elected leaders to show up to work, and the Democrats refuse to do so. Voters, especially Hispanic Texans, are increasingly deserting the Democrats and deserve to be able to vote for candidates who better align with their values. At the end of the day, candidates win on the merits, not the map. If Democrats have any hope of winning elections, they need to change their platform. Running away from a fight is not a solution and is the antithesis of being a Texan. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 House Democrats who fled to Illinois and other northern states to block a Republican-led congressional redistricting plan backed by President Donald Trump said Thursday they would return to Austin after lawmakers adjourn their current special session on Friday and California Democrats introduce their retaliatory map designed to neutralize the Texas GOP effort. Under the advice of legal counsel, Democrats must return to Texas to build a strong public legislative record for the upcoming legal battle against a map that violates both the current Voting Rights Act and the Constitution, a statement from the Texas House Democratic Caucus said. Trump thought he could easily get his way in Texas with compliant Republicans, but Democrats fought back ferociously and took the fight to Trump across America. We will return to the House floor and to the courthouse with a clear message: The fight to protect voting rights has only begun, the Texas Democrats said of the Trump-backed Texas remap effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows of Lubbock has already said he would adjourn the chambers special session on Friday. But Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has said he will call special session after special session until the new boundaries are approved. By fleeing the state nearly two weeks ago, Texas Democrats denied House Republicans the quorum needed to conduct legislative business. There was never much doubt that the Texas Democrats would eventually return to face a losing vote on the remap issue. But their walkout raised the issue of political gerrymandering nationally as well as whether the process should be confined to the traditional once-per-decade, post-census drawing of boundaries or whether partisan battles would break out over remap efforts after every election. Indeed, the announcement by the Texas Democrats, at least 33 of whom have been residing in a secure hotel facility in west suburban St. Charles after their arrival in Chicago on Aug. 3, came as California Gov. Gavin Newsom formally announced his states plans for lawmakers to vote next week to ask that states voters to adopt new Democratic-favored congressional districts. The California measure would also temporarily suspend the states independent mapmaking process until after the 2030 federal census. In a news conference in Los Angeles, Newsom laid out the steps for voter adoption of a new constitutional amendment to suspend the independent map commission and approval of new boundary lines on Nov. 4. The new boundaries could create as many as six new Democratic districts at the expense of Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wake up, America. This is a serious moment. Wake up to whats going on. Wake up to the fear and anxiety, Newsom said. They say, Dont mess with Texas. Well, dont mess with the great Golden State. Were doing this in reaction to a president of the United States that called a sitting governor of the state of Texas and said, Find me five seats, said the California governor, who is viewed as a potential 2028 Democratic presidential aspirant. We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear, district by district, all across the country. Newsom also implored other blue states to engage in redistricting their congressional boundaries after Trump has encouraged Indiana, Florida and Missouri to also create Republican seats at the expense of Democrats. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who is also considered a possible Democratic presidential candidate, has not ruled out an Illinois redistricting effort even though petitions are currently being circulated for the March primary under current boundaries and the states heavily gerrymandered Democrat-drawn map puts Republicans at a 14-3 disadvantage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were giving the people of this state the power to save democracy, not just in California, but all across America, Newsom said. It was not immediately clear when copies of the new California map would be made available to the public. But the California legislature is expected to vote next week to put the proposed constitutional amendment on that states fall ballot. Abbott has called Texas GOP-led legislature into special session, ostensibly to consider flood relief from deadly July 4 floods in the Hill Country, but also to pass the new congressional boundaries aimed at flipping five Democratic seats from Democrat to Republican. In an attempt to force the return of the absent House Democrats to Texas, that states Republican attorney general went to a downstate Illinois circuit court last week seeking an order that would compel Illinois law enforcement to carry out civil warrants for the House Democrats. The civil warrants were issued by the GOP Texas House speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But on Wednesday, a circuit judge in downstate Quincy rejected Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons petition. In his ruling, Adams County Circuit Judge Scott Larson said repeatedly that the Illinois circuit courts do not have the inherent power to consider the case, in part, because the warrants were issued by Texas legislative branch and no Texas court has issued a ruling to enforce them. This Illinois circuit court does not have the inherent power to initiate, consider and determine whether the actions of foreign legislators while in a special legislative session were contumacious and done for the purpose of willfully evading civil legislative Quorum Warrants issued by the State of Texas House of Representatives, Larson wrote in his ruling issued Wednesday, using a somewhat archaic term meaning willfully disobedient to authority. Larson also said the court did not have the 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Larson said the enforcement of the civil warrants was limited to within the boundaries of the state of Texas a fact that legal experts had said made Paxtons court petition a long-shot legal act. 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. Paxtons court petition, filed by using Illinois Republican state Sen. Jil Tracy of Quincy as an uncompensated temporary assistant Texas attorney general, represented another level of escalation in the national battle between Republicans and Democrats. After House Democrats left Texas more than a week ago to prevent the quorum, Burrows, the speaker of the Texas House, issued the civil warrants to compel the Democrats to return to Austin. Texas House Democrats who fled to Illinois and other northern states to block a Republican-led congressional redistricting plan backed by President Donald Trump said Thursday they would return to Austin after lawmakers adjourn their current special session on Friday and California Democrats introduce their retaliatory map designed to neutralize the Texas GOP effort. Under the advice of legal counsel, Democrats must return to Texas to build a strong public legislative record for the upcoming legal battle against a map that violates both the current Voting Rights Act and the Constitution, a statement from the Texas House Democratic caucus said. Trump thought he could easily get his way in Texas with compliant Republicans, but Democrats fought back ferociously and took the fight to Trump across America. We will return to the House floor and to the courthouse with a clear message: The fight to protect voting rights has only begun, the Texas Democrats said of the Trump-backed Texas remap effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows of Lubbock has already said he would adjourn the chambers special session on Friday. But Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has said he will call special session after special session until the new boundaries are approved. By fleeing the state nearly two weeks ago, Texas Democrats denied House Republicans the quorum needed to conduct legislative business. There was never much doubt that the Texas Democrats would eventually return to face a losing vote on the remap issue. But their walkout raised the issue of political gerrymandering nationally as well as whether the process should be confined to the traditional once-per-decade, post-census drawing of boundaries or whether partisan battles would break out over remap efforts after every election. Indeed, the announcement by the Texas Democrats, at least 33 of whom have been residing in a secure hotel facility in west suburban St. Charles after their arrival in Chicago on Aug. 3, came as California Gov. Gavin Newsom formally announced his states plans for lawmakers to vote next week to ask that states voters to adopt new Democratic-favored congressional districts. The California measure would also temporarily suspend the states independent map-making process until after the 2030 federal census. In a news conference in Los Angeles, Newsom laid out the steps for voter adoption of a new constitutional amendment to suspend the independent map commission and approval of new boundary lines on Nov. 4. The new boundaries could create as many as six new Democratic districts at the expense of Republicans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wake up, America. This is a serious moment. Wake up to whats going on. Wake up to the fear and anxiety, Newsom said. They say, Dont mess with Texas. Well, dont mess with the great Golden State. Were doing this in reaction to a president of the United States that called a sitting governor of the state of Texas and said, Find me five seats, said the California governor, who is viewed as a potential 2028 Democratic presidential aspirant. We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear, district by district, all across the country. Newsom also implored other blue states to engage in redistricting their congressional boundaries after Trump has encouraged Indiana, Florida and Missouri to also create Republican seats at the expense of Democrats. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, who is also considered a possible Democratic presidential candidate, has not ruled out an Illinois redistricting effort even though petitions are currently being circulated for the March primary under current boundaries and the states heavily gerrymandered Democrat-drawn map puts Republicans at a 14-3 disadvantage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were giving the people of this state the power to save democracy, not just in California, but all across America, Newsom said. It was not immediately clear when copies of the new California map would be made available to the public. But the California legislature is expected to vote next week to put the proposed constitutional amendment on that states fall ballot. Abbott has called Texas GOP-led legislature into special session, ostensibly to consider flood relief from deadly July 4 floods in the Hill Country, but also to pass the new congressional boundaries aimed at flipping five Democratic seats from Democrat to Republican. In an attempt to force the return of the absent House Democrats to Texas, the states Republican attorney general went to a downstate Illinois circuit court last week seeking an order that would compel Illinois law enforcement to carry out civil warrants for the House Democrats. The civil warrants were issued by the GOP Texas House speaker. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But on Wednesday, a circuit judge in downstate Quincy rejected Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxtons petition. In his ruling, Adams County Circuit Judge Scott Larson said repeatedly that the Illinois circuit courts do not have the inherent power to consider the case, in part, because the warrants were issued by Texas legislative branch and no Texas court has issued a ruling to enforce them. This Illinois circuit court does not have the inherent power to initiate, consider and determine whether the actions of foreign legislators while in a special legislative session were contumacious and done for the purpose of willfully evading civil legislative Quorum Warrants issued by the State of Texas House of Representatives, Larson wrote in his ruling issued Wednesday, using a somewhat archaic term meaning willfully disobedient to authority. Larson also said the court did not have the 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Larson said the enforcement of the civil warrants was limited to within the boundaries of the state of Texas a fact that legal experts had said made Paxtons court petition a long-shot legal act. As the petitioner has failed to present a legal basis for the court to obtain subject mater jurisdiction over this cause of action, this court is without jurisdiction to grant petitioners emergency motion to rule on pleadings, Larson wrote. Paxtons court petition, filed by using Illinois Republican state Sen. Jil Tracy of Quincy as an uncompensated temporary assistant Texas attorney general, represented another level of escalation in the national battle between Republicans and Democrats. After House Democrats left Texas more than a week ago to prevent the quorum, Burrows, the Texas speaker of the Texas House, issued the civil warrants to compel the Democrats to return to Austin. _____ CHICAGO With the carved image of Martin Luther King Jr. as their backdrop, state House Democrats from Indiana and Texas, in a show of cross-state solidarity, coalesced in Chicagos Marquette Park to highlight their joint resistance against Republican-led redistricting plans. The meeting linked two minority caucuses from deeply conservative states, each facing legislatures dominated by the GOP, in a shared bid to spotlight what they see as partisan gerrymandering and threats to voting rights. Their joint appearance comes amid broader national tensions over election laws, with Democrats positioning the fight as part of a larger pushback against the Trump administrations influence on state-level voting rules. Indiana has nine congressional districts across the state, with only two held by Democrats. Those districts are anchored by two counties, Lake and Marion, which contain the states highest concentration of African American and Latino voters. The seats are currently held by Reps. Frank Mrvan and Andre Carson. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Earl Harris Jr., chair of Indianas Black Legislative Caucus, represents a number of those voters in his district, which covers large portions of Gary and East Chicago. My district has a big population of Blacks and Latinos, Harris said. Why are we disenfranchising the voters? Black and brown people show what we want to represent, so willing to stand here and fight and be here in this fight. Vice President JD Vance visited with Indiana Gov. Mike Braun last week to discuss redistricting, among other things, but the governor has yet to decide whether he will call for a special session. Earlier this week, Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith took questions regarding redistricting at a town hall meeting in Lake County, where he indicated that he would only oppose it if there was a federal mandate to create fair districts nationwide. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If we had a national agreement where we could come say, Hey, lets create fair districts in every state, Im all ears, Beckwith told attendees. I would love to see that, but until that point, we need to do it because the other states are doing it. 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. Ed DeLaney, Indiana state representative Redistricting in most states is generally done every 10 years, in lockstep with the U.S. census. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called for a special session, which began on July 21. Since that time, multiple House Democrats have left the state to deny a quorum needed to hold a vote. On Wednesday, Harris, along with other Indiana Democrats, joined the Texas Democrats, who are at risk of possibly losing congressional seats. Texas House Minority Leader Gene Wu speaks Wednesday afternoon in Chicago. (Javonte Anderson/Capital B) Texas House Minority Leader Gene Wu, labeling the redistricting efforts racist and unconstitutional, said he and his colleagues are trying to get the attention of Americans. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an effort to stifle Americans who have had enough, Wu said. Republicans know that their agenda and what theyve done is so unpopular with all Americans that they need to cheat and rig the system so they can stay in power. Wu and his fellow House Democrats who left the state are still facing daily fines of $500 and the threat of arrest, as civil arrest warrants were issued by their Republican colleagues. While they have managed to hold up movement in the state House, Texas Senate Republicans passed the new maps this week. This is not a fight that we can sustain and win on our own, Wu said. We need more people to join us, more states to come to our aid, and we need more people to say we will start taking more aggressive action. We will defend against this. Indiana Rep Ed. DeLaney joined Texas Democrats in Chicago to speak against Texas redistricting efforts. (Javonte Anderson/Capital B) State Rep. Ed DeLaney, who represents portions of Indianapolis and serves as the assistant caucus chair, said he was taken aback by Vances visit and subsequent special session request. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The post Texas, Indiana Democrats Take Voting Rights Fight to Chicago appeared first on Capital B Gary. As Texas Democrats mull when and how exactly they will return to the state, potentially later this week despite the fact that Gov. Greg Abbott has vowed to keep calling for special sessions until his Trumped up congressional maps are approved Texas Republicans efforts to outdo one another by attempting to arrest and punish Dems in creative ways are ongoing. Last week, Attorney General Ken Paxton sued former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke (D-TX) and his political group, Powered by People. Paxton has claimed that ORourke was illegally funding Texas Democrats exodus from the state in order to deny their GOP colleagues a quorum to pass congressional maps designed to hand Republicans five new seats in the U.S. House. He was acting on Abbotts ongoing claim that the Dems who left the state should be hit with felony bribery charges for any support they may have received to leave Texas or to pay the $500-a-day fines for breaking quorum. Last night, Paxton upped the ante when he asked a Texas district court judge to jail ORourke for the duration of the lawsuit and to fine the former congressman. In the motion he claimed that ORourke had violated a court order issued by the district court judge last week that barred ORourke from doing any fundraising to help pay for Texas Dems exit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Per the Texas Tribune: 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. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), who is fighting for his political life in a Republican Senate primary against Paxton, is trying to get in on the going-after-ORourke action. Hes been looking for ways to leverage his federal office to get the Trump administration involved in Texas since this story boiled over last week. He was the first to try to get federal law enforcement to help locate and arrest the Democrats who fled the state. Today, he sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi asking the DOJ to open an investigation into ORourke, George Soros and other amorphous, spooky, dark Dem groups supposedly funding Texas Dems protest against the gerrymandered maps and, also, their plush lifestyles. The letter is pretty ridiculous. Heres an excerpt: But the House members who fled did not randomly decide to leave on August 3rd. 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. As weve mentioned in our coverage over the course of the past week, Cornyn and Paxton using the situation to out-hard ass each other is a pellucid campaigning strategy for both. Theyre running against each other for Cornyns seat and Trump hasnt yet endorsed anyone in the race. Paxton is pretty popular among Republican voters in Texas, though Cornyn has held the seat since 2002. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The focus on ORourke also signals there may be some legal murkiness to Paxton, Cornyn and Abbotts various schemes to try to find ways to punish the Texas Dems who left the state to delay the Republican-controlled legislatures adoption of new congressional maps that could help the party hold the U.S. House. The Texas GOP is engaging in the midcycle gerrymandering because President Trump asked them to. Hes worried Republicans are going to lose the House in the fall, which could significantly slow down his unconstitutional legislative power grab and give Democrats subpoena power. Trump Intends to Force Congress to Let Him Run DC Police Longer As expected, Trump was never going to be content with a limited, month-long federal takeover of the D.C. police. Per Axios: Trump said during a press conference that his administration is going to push for a long-term extension of the federalization of the Metropolitan Police Department in a crime bill that will initially pertain to D.C. but will serve as a roadmap for other cities. If its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress, Trump said. But we expect to be before Congress very quickly. Thank You! Last night TPM hit its goal of raising $500,000 in four weeks for our TPM Journalism Fund. If you contributed at all during this drive, we sincerely appreciate it. Its not a small thing. If you are looking for more ways to support TPM (and if you are reading this on site, not in your email), we are looking to grow Where Things Stand, the daily evening column you are currently reading, into a newsletter. This will help us reach new readers on different platforms and in different venues to continue growing TPM and the audience we serve. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So if you like or hate read me each day, you can sign up here to get this sent straight to your inbox here. In Case You Missed It Was It Ghislaine All Along? Inside One Native American Tribes Fight Against The Alligator Alcatraz Detention Camp Trump Forces His Brand Of Americanism On The Smithsonian Yesterdays Most Read Story The Trump Presidency Reboot Suffers From Predictable Plots What We Are Reading The Long, Strange Trip of Rick Perry Kennedys case against mRNA vaccines collapses under his own evidence The Worst People Have the Most Power TOPEKA (KSNT) A local liquor store is continuing to sell THC-infused drinks despite disapproval from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). The KBI recently held a meeting with the Attorney Generals office and the beverage wholesale industry regarding THC-infused drinks, leading many liquor stores to stop selling them. Verns Retail Liquor in Topeka says its inventory is legal, containing less than 0.3% THC and has yet to remove the drinks from the shelves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Five-mile detour planned for north Topeka road work Over the last I would say few weeks due to the topic of legality of it, some are taking precaution and removing it off the shelves, we choose to go ahead and still be vocal and support the selling of these in the store, said Christian Stewart, general manager of Verns Retail Liquor. Stewart says that Verns Retail Liquor will follow changes in state law, but will continue to support the sale of these drinks. For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. The Brief Thieves stole a large, pre-fabricated metal building intended to be the new home for Longvue Baptist Church in Fort Worth. The building, which was purchased with cash, was uninsured, and the pastor says its loss is devastating to the congregation. Fort Worth police have no suspects, and the church is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. FORT WORTH, Texas - A pastor is pleading for help after thieves stole very expensive building material from his Fort Worth Church. What we know The theft happened at Longvue Baptist Church on the west side of Fort Worth. Members of the congregation hope a reward will produce information in the case. Thieves who targeted some very expensive building materials took their time to rip off a house of worship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Fort Worth church pastor hopes to reveal the work of a group of thieves. Pastor Brian Fisher and the members of Longvue Baptist Church sold their current house of worship and, in the process, gained a secluded piece of land off Old Weatherford Road. Photos of the materials trucked in on three semi-tractor trailers that would ultimately become that fabricated building. What they're saying "We sacrifice and saved and put together as a church family. None of our members are very well off, wealthy, but over time we were able to do it and paid cash for the building so that we had it," said Pastor Fisher. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This was a nearly 10,000-square-foot metal building. 75 x 125 x 20-foot walls. Which means two stories for Sunday school classes, just everything concerning a building for our future home." Dig deeper On Saturday, Pastor Fisher and his wife decided to stop to pray over the land. "When we pulled up, we noticed the chain had been cut," said Fisher. He says it was the first time anyone from the church had visited the property in roughly three weeks. "It was a gut punch. I mean it hit us so hard because again weve been praying and working and sacrificing, doing extra things to raise the funds to be able to move forward," said Fisher. What's next The church is now praying that whoever spent many hours, perhaps days even, stealing their new church home, will simply have the heart to give it back. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I just want to say to them, and they need to do the right thing. This is a church building that we scraped and bought. We do not have insurance on it so if we dont get it back, it is lost." Fort Worth police say there are still no new developments and there are no suspects identified in this crime. The church is offering a $1,000 reward for information to help solve the case. The Source Information in this article was provided by FOX 4's Dionne Anglin. Authorities in Pennsylvania are investigating whether two suspects accused of stealing more than half a million dollars from an armored car this week are connected to a string of recent heists in the Philadelphia area, a police official said Wednesday. It isnt clear if the robbery Tuesday in suburban Philadelphia is linked to the others, said Lt. Andrew Snyder of the Cheltenham Township Police Department. But Snyder said his department is part of a joint investigation examining links to the previous thefts, including one in which suspects armed with AR15-style rifles are accused of stealing more than $2 million from a Brinks driver at a Philadelphia Home Depot in June. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.S. Attorney's Office for Pennsylvania's Eastern District announced three arrests in that case Wednesday on robbery and firearms charges. The prosecutor's office identified one of the suspects, Trayvine Jackson, 31, as a former employee of Brinks, the same company involved in Tuesday's robbery. In an email, a lawyer for Jackson described his client as a dedicated family man with a long-standing work history and no criminal record. "At this early pre-indictment stage, it is pre-mature to comment on what are at this point mere allegations," said the lawyer, David Mischak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A lawyer for another defendant, Daishaun Hughes-Murchison, declined to comment. An attorney for the third suspect, Brian Wallace, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. NBC Philadelphia reported that much of the money in the June robbery was recovered. A spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department, which is involved in the joint investigation, referred questions about the probe to the FBI. A spokesperson for the bureau declined to comment. A spokesperson for Brinks did not respond to a request for comment. Tuesday's robbery occurred just before 10:30 a.m. at an H-Mart in Cheltenham, north of Philadelphia, the township's police department said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Security video released by the department showed a Brinks driver walking away from an armored truck. Seconds later, two people with hoods, gloves and guns can be seen running after the driver. Moments later, they run back the other way. One was armed with an AR15-style weapon, according to the news release. The other had a handgun. They disarmed the driver and are believed to have stolen roughly $700,000, according to the release. The robbers fled in a black Acura that was later found abandoned. In another case on July 15, a Brinks employee opened fire on two men who he said tried to rob him in northeast Philadelphia, NBC Philadelphia reported. The men fled in a black late-model Nissan with tinted windows, according to the station. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In another case earlier that month, three people including one armed with an AR-15 style rifle are accused of robbing a Brinks employee in a nearby part of Philadelphia, the station reported. It isn't clear if there have been any arrests in the case or how much was stolen. A spokesperson for the Philadelphia Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com KANSAS CITY, Mo. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will partner with multiple organizations to host the Third Annual Governors Mentored Deer Hunt scheduled for Friday, October 10, through Sunday, October 12. Mentored hunts will take place in several counties during Missouris early firearms antlerless deer season. Lions Lake to be drained in Warrensburg; anglers can remove as many fish as possible Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The mentored hunts are made possible through partnerships with the Conservation Federation of Missouri, National Wild Turkey Foundation, National Deer Association, Missouri Hunting Heritage Foundation, Pheasants & Quail Forever, Kansas City Safari Club International, Missouri Disabled Sportsmen, Missouri Legislative Sportsmens Caucus, Whitetails Unlimited, ALPS Outdoorz, Dead End Game Calls, MO Wood and Wildlife and Missouri Back Country Hunters and Anglers. These partners have come together to host events endorsed by Governor Mike Kehoe that mentor new hunters and manage deer populations for participating landowners, said MDC Education and Outreach Coordinator Rob Garver. This is a great opportunity for people to learn more about hunting and get a chance to harvest their first deer. During the weekend, participants will not only go with a field mentor to hunt, but also learn about huntings role in conservation, deer biology, hunting strategy and etiquette, firearm safety, and more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deadline to register is Sunday, August 31. Those interested will first register on the MDC website Mentored Deer Hunt. Once registered, users will be contacted to fill out an application. Preference will be given to applicants who have never hunted or harvested a deer. Mentored hunts will be held in Audrain, Benton, Howell, Madison, Maries, Phelps, Osage, Pike, Putnam and Shelby counties. Selected applicants will need to purchase a Firearms Antlerless Deer Hunting Permit or a Firearms Any-Deer Hunting Permit. Those without hunter education certificates may apply with an Apprentice Hunter Authorization. Learn more about Missouris Apprentice Hunter program online here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports. President Donald Trump has stooped to cold calling Norwegian diplomats in his long-suffering bid to be awarded the countrys coveted Noble Peace Prize. Norways Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg, the former NATO secretary-general, confirmed to Politico that Trump called him to discuss tariffs and economic cooperation between the two countries. It is true that President Trump called me a few days before his conversation with Prime Minister (Jonas Gahr) Stre. Several of the presidents staff members also participated in the conversation, including Treasury Secretary Bessent and Trade Representative Greer, said Stoltenberg. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, Norwegian newspaper Dagens Nringsliv reported on Thursday that the topic of the Nobel Peace Prize was also raised in their discussions, and it was the second such time that the topic was raised during a call. Stoltenberg added, I will not go into further detail about the content of the conversation. Norway's Finance Minister and former NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (left) meets with Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store (center) and President Donald Trump (right) in the Oval Office. / Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images In recent months, Trump has frequently proclaimed that he believes that he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize much more than the previous four presidents who have received the awardespecially more than former President Barack Obama. (Obama) didnt even know why the hell he got it, right? He still doesnt, Trump told a Las Vegas audience last year during a campaign stop, The Independent reported. He got elected, and they announced hes getting the Nobel Prize. I got elected in a much bigger, better, crazier election, but they gave him the Nobel Prize. Former President Barack Obama, then 48, smiles with his diploma and gold medal during the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. / JEWEL SAMAD / AFP via Getty Images In his second term, Trump has publicly ramped up the pressure to get his hands on the award and he has enlisted the help of his MAGA proxies to prove he is Nobel-worthy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israel President Benjamin Netanyahu wrote a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee praising Trump for his role in negotiating the 2020 Abraham Accords. Laying it on thick, Netanyahu claimed that Trump was forging peace, as we speak, in one country in the region after another. Armenia and Azerbaijan have also publicly come out in support of Trump winning the prize after a successful Aug. 8 summit at the White House saw the two countries walk away with a joint peace agreement to end a 37-year conflict, the Atlantic Council reported. I think President Trump deserved to have the Nobel Peace Prize, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said at the White House, and we will defend that, we will promote for that. President Donald Trump helps ink a peace deal between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev (left) and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan (right). / Andrew Harnik / Getty Images Now all eyes are on Trumps highly-anticipated meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska as he looks to finally put an end to Putins full-scale invasion of Ukraine once and for all, something he promised to do on day one of his presidency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A former aide in Trumps first term told The Hill theres no question the pressures on for the administration to secure the prize. Trump sees this prize as the ultimate capstone to how history will remember him, they added. Yet even if Trump doesnt broker peace between Russian and Ukraine, MAGA pundit Geraldo Rivera declared that Trump deserves it anyway. Geraldo Riviera (right) praises President Donald Trumps efforts to broker peace in an interview with Newsmax host Scott Finnerty. / Screenshot If you have a president of the United States trying so hard... for peace, even if hes not totally successful, just the effort is so, its so overt, its so public, its so aggressive. You know, he deserves recognition at least for that, Rivera told Newsmax host Rob Finnerty on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he does end this war, Geraldo, can they deny him the Nobel Peace Prize? Finnerty asked. Hell no, Rivera said. I think that this and/or Gaza would put him on the fast track, and anyone to deny that, I think, would really be putting their partisan politics in front of their logic. The Nobel Peace Prize will be awarded at a ceremony on Dec. 10, 2025, in Stockholm, Sweden. The Daily Beast has contacted White House representatives for comment on Trumps campaign push for the Nobel Peace Prize. PEARL RIVER COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) Pearl River County deputies arrested three suspects after they said drugs were found inside a sweet tea jug. A deputy conducted a traffic stop on a maroon SUV in the 1400 block of South Main Street in Poplarville on August 6, 2025, for a traffic violation. Three teenagers arrested in Jasper County shooting According to investigators, the deputy developed probable cause to search the vehicle. They said the deputy noticed a white plastic bag inside a jug containing Milos Sweet Tea. The deputy emptied the tea and recovered two bags containing methamphetamine. Patrick Russell (Courtesy: Pearl River County Sheriffs Dept.) Briana Harris (Courtesy: Pearl River County Sheriffs Dept.) Javaze Bowden (Courtesy: Pearl River County Sheriffs Dept.) Deputies said Patrick Russell, 33; Briana Harris, 27; and Javaze Bowden, 29, were transported to the Pearl River County Jail. They were charged with tampering with evidence, possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. Three performers with the Circus Roncalli, currently touring in the northern German city of Lubeck, were injured after falling about 3 metres during a training session, police said on Thursday. According to initial findings, a 30-year-old man, a 24-year-old woman and an 8-year-old child were practising a stunt together when the accident occurred. The man had been holding onto a rope with his teeth, while the woman hung from him and the child from her. "The performer could not hold on, and they all fell," a police spokeswoman said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trio were taken to hospital by ambulance, but their lives are not in danger. Police did not immediately provide details on the type or severity of their injuries. Roncalli is one of Germanys best-known professional circuses. "They are doing well under the circumstances," a Circus Roncalli spokeswoman said. The accident happened during a private training session and did not involve any act from the current programme, she added. Performances in front of Lubecks historic Holstentor city gate were unaffected, with all shows going ahead as planned. Three civilian Ukrainian women Svitlana Holovan, Yuliia Panina and Maryna Berezniatska have been freed from Russian captivity during the latest prisoner exchange. Source: Liudmyla Huseinova, a human rights activist and head of the NGO Numo, Sisters!; Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War Details: The Coordination Headquarters revealed that the women are from Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. One of them is a primary school teacher who was captured by the Russians in 2019. One of the freed women said: "The feeling cannot be described". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among those who returned from Russian captivity is Svitlana Holovan. She is from the city of Novoazovsk in Donetsk Oblast and was arrested in August 2019. At the time, she had two young daughters and earned a living by providing transport services, including helping locals get to Mariupol to collect pensions or other documents. Quote from Huseinova: "In August 2019, MGB [Russian-controlled security service in occupied Donetsk ed.] officers decided to arrest her. They came to her home, turned the place upside down, and took a childs laptop, money and car. This all happened in front of her young children. Her younger daughter was four years old at the time. The child ran after the car her mother had been put into, crying: 'Give me my mum back, leave her'." Details: At the time of her arrest, Svitlanas younger daughter was four and her elder daughter was 10. For two years, the Russians did not allow her to see her family or hire a private lawyer. She had to rely on a state-appointed lawyer who insisted she plead guilty. She refused and was left without any defence at all. Huseinova said that during those two years Holovan was tortured in the Izolyatsia prison run by the Russian-controlled militants in Donetsk. She was later sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison and transferred to a penal colony in Snizhne, Donetsk Oblast. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "We rarely talk about the colony in Snizhne, but I will tell you what women who were freed said. It is forced labour from 08:00 to 20:00. The women are forced to sit in sewing workshops and make clothes for the Russian military. They get one day off per week. They also carry sacks of coal weighing 50 kg." More details: Svitlanas husband took their daughters to Mariupol, but in 2022 the family again came under Russian occupation. Currently, the daughters live in Germany with their father. Until now, her family had no information about her whereabouts or condition. Background: On 14 August, the 67th prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine took place. As a result, 84 Ukrainian military personnel and civilians returned home almost all of them are in need of medical care and rehabilitation. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) Three fugitives who were transferred to the U.S. from Mexico made their first court appearances in San Diego on Wednesday. Video above by Nexstar Media Wire shows how to report tips to U.S. Marshals Service Pablo Edwin Huerta Nuna, also known as Flaquito, Juan Carlos Felix Gastelum, also known as El Chavo Felix, and Abdul Karim Conteh were transferred to the U.S. from Mexico earlier this week in accordance with Mexicos national security law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California, the three men were arraigned and entered not guilty pleas. Both Huerta Nuno and Conteh are scheduled to reappear in court on Sept. 19, while Felix Gastelums next court appearance is set for Sept. 12. Huerta Nuno, 33, of Mexico, is alleged to be a violent Tijuana Plaza boss who allegedly supllied thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine to distributors throughout San Diego and Los Angeles. He was charged with international conspiracy to distribute controlled substances for purpose of unlawful importation, conspiracy to import controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. Felix Gastelum, 42, a Mexican citizen, is alleged to be a major Sinaloa Cartel cell leader and the son-in-law of a former cartel leader named Ismael El Mayo Zambada. Additionally, he is alleged to be among the main operators of the cartels clandestine methamphetamine manufacturing laboratory in the Sierra Madre Mountains of Sinaloa and Durango, Mexico. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the U.S. attorneys office, he was charged with international conspiracy to distribute controlled substances for purpose of unlawful importation and conspiracy to import controlled substances. Conteh, 41, is a national of Sierra Leone who allegedly led a human smuggling organization into the U.S. through Mexico, officials said. The migrants who were smuggled came from all over the world, including Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and others. Conteh was charged with conspiracy to bring in aliens at a place other than designated port of entry as well as bringing in aliens for financial gain. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey released a statement where he apologized and said that he remains committed to allowing the film to be screened at this years festival. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) management has shifted gears about disinviting The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, a documentary about the massacre by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and now says that it will work with filmmakers to ensure that the film is screened. The story broke earlier this week that although TIFF management officially invited the film, in July, to take part in the film festival, it had suddenly disinvited it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The movie is by Barry Avrich, a distinguished documentary director and a former TIFF board member. In an email obtained by The Globe and Mail, TIFF management cited concerns about the filmmakers not getting permission for all the clips shown in the film, which Kan News said represented a demand for the filmmakers to obtain permission from Hamas to include clips of the massacre that the terror group filmed and broadcast widely. The other issue TIFF gave for its decision to disinvite the movie was that The risk of major, disruptive protest actions around the films presence at the Festival, including internal opposition, has become too great. But on Wednesday night, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey released a statement, posted on Instagram, saying, The 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 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 here at home and around the world. Bailey also wrote: 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. Cameron Bailey speaks on behalf of Toronto International Film Festival, 2025 Inductees, Arts and Entertainment during the 2025 Canada's Walk Of Fame Induction Gala held at Metro Toronto Convention Centre on June 14, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario. (credit: JEREMY CHAN/GETTY IMAGES) TIFF, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and which will run from September 4-14, is the largest film festival in North America, and one of the most prestigious and important in the world. The story of Noam Tibon on October 7 The documentary tells the story of Noam Tibon, a retired Israel Defense Forces General, who headed south as soon as he heard about the attack from his son, Haaretz reporter Amir Tibon, who was hiding from terrorists with his wife and daughters in their home on Kibbutz Nahal Oz. Tibon helped subdue the terrorists on the kibbutz, and his family survived. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was the rare story from October 7 with any kind of positive outcome, and it has also sparked interest from the creators of Fauda, who plan to adapt it into a dramatic film. Thirteen people at Kibbutz Nahal Oz were murdered, and several were taken hostage. Hamas killed 1,200 people that day and took about 250 more hostage, 50 of whom are still being held in Gaza. The initial decision to pull the film from the lineup sparked worldwide outrage, including from Jewish groups and filmmakers around the world, and many welcomed the festivals decision to reconsider. Following the about-face announcement, Noam Tibon was quoted by N12 as saying, This is a film that is a human story about a life-saving mission on October 7, without a political agenda, that documents the harsh reality of the most terrible day in the history of the State of Israel. This reality cannot be hidden, and the truth cannot be erased. The Toronto Film Festivals ridiculous demand to receive copyright approval from the Nuhkba terrorists is an insult to common sense and a spit in the face of the victims. The festival did well to declare that it is considering the return of the film, and I expect it to keep its promise and prove that the Toronto Film Festival remains a free and courageous platform for creativity and does not succumb to political cowardice. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Talia Harris Ram, one of the films producers, said in a Facebook post after the film was disinvited: As the Israeli producer of the film, I was very pleased with the [initial] announcement that the film would be premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. Yet, worrying signs began to accumulate, suggesting that this was uncertain. Anti-Israel voices, struggling to disconnect the story from politics despite the Tibon familys position to return the hostages and end the war are working both inside and outside the festival to prevent the showing of an Israeli, human story on screen. We received a notice that the films participation in the festival was canceled, based on obscure, sophisticated, and pretentious language, claiming that we did not receive clearance to use archival footage used in the film. Meaning, the archival footage filmed by Hamas. Let this sink in. As someone who has dedicated her life to handling rights and intellectual property, this is the most absurd, horrific, disconnected claim I have encountered so far. Clips taken and broadcast by the terrorists have been included in several previous documentaries, including Yariv Mozers We Will Dance Again, which won the Emmy for Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary in late June. Asked about the flap over Avrichs film and whether anyone had requested that Mozer get permission from Hamas to use their clips, he said, Of course not! Were talking about a jihadist terror group. We used to joke in the editing room that were going to call the tunnels in Gaza and ask [killed Hamas commander Yahya] Sinwar for clearance. Said one Israeli film industry professional, who preferred not to be quoted by name: Film festivals are like little kingdoms, and there are always factions in the management. The anti-Israel faction obviously wanted the movie out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are five or six documentaries this year about Gaza from a Palestinian perspective and they did not want even a single Israeli voice with any kind of counter-narrative. But there are still voices of reason among the board and they prevailed. I hope well see more Israeli films at Toronto next year, its so important for getting distribution in America. Speaking about the festival, citing a fear of protest, he said, Thats one of the most blatant examples I have ever seen of a Western cultural organization letting a terror group call the shots. At least they walked it back. Last year, Shemi Zarhins Bliss, a drama about an older couple, was the only Israeli film shown at the festival. Protesters disrupted the screening, but they were ejected, and it continued. This year, Or Sinais Mama, a similarly apolitical drama about a Polish woman (Evgenia Dodina) working in Israel who goes home to her village, is the sole Israeli film on the program. A decade ago, TIFF would show nearly every new Israeli movie ready that year, often four or more, and it was often where Israeli films would have their international premiere. But even before the war, the number of Israeli films accepted to TIFF had begun dwindling. OAKLAND, N.J. (PIX11) A regional martial arts chain employee has been accused of planting a hidden camera in the womens bathroom to record adults and children, according to the Bergen County Prosecutors Office. Tiger Schulmanns employee Ryan Curtin, 25, was arrested on Wednesday after a months-long investigation following the discovery of a hidden camera in a publicly-accessible restroom inside the Ramsey, New Jersey, location in April. More Local News Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Curtin was initially arrested and charged with invasion of privacy and released pending further court action. Ramsey Police notified the Bergen County Cyber Crimes Unit and Digital Forensics Lab to dig deeper into the hidden camera activity. The investigation revealed Curtin, of Oakland, allegedly recorded multiple victims, including children, in various stages of undress while they were using the bathroom. He was arrested again on Wednesday. Curtin now faces multiple charges, including production and possession of child sexual material and invasion of privacy. He will appear in Bergen County Superior Court in Hackensack at a later date. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Spencer Gustafson is a digital content producer from Long Island who has covered New York state and city news since 2023. See more of his work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11. The President of AT Marketing, Toby Tamaye, joins Kau Kau Walaau to share his insights from over two decades of public relations experience while showcasing his client, Oh My Grill. Hes known for his expertise in event production and influencer collaborations for one of Hawaiis premier marketing firms and has helped launch some of the islands biggest events and campaigns. Hes worked with local businesses, national brands and non-profit organizations to connect them with Hawaiis diverse community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From high-profile festivals such as the Waikiki Spam Jam and Korean Festival, to grassroots promotions for local businesses, he is a trusted voice in the local marketing scene. Beyond marketing, Tamaye is also recognized for his role in bridging traditional media with the fast-moving world of social media influencers helping clients tap into Hawaiis online community in meaningful ways. Whether its curating guest experiences, planning large-scale media days, or fostering partnerships, his dedication to elevating local stories has made him a trusted figure in the industry. You can learn more about Toby Tamaye and his work in our latest episode of Kau Kau Walaau streaming every other Wednesday at 2 p.m. on the KHON+ app. Episodes are also available later that day on KHON2.com and the KHON2 YouTube channel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. ALTO, Texas (KETK) New Alto ISD Superintendent Derrick Conley opened a new chapter in his educational journey on Wednesday when he joined students for their first day of school this year. Edgewood ISD heads back to renovated campus with new superintendent The Alto ISD drop-off line was full of energy as Conley high-fived students and waved to parents. Conley has 30 years of experience in education, his most recent job was as assistant superintendent of Pine Tree ISD in Longview. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today is my favorite day! This community has been very welcoming, Conley said. The staff, the kids. Weve got a lot of pride here being a Yellowjacket. Conley introduced himself to his new school community in a very personal way, hand-writing each student and staff member a note and mailing them out by the first day. This personalized greeting was sent out as a message of welcoming. Palestine ISD excited to welcome students back for a new school year What we do this morning is what we do every day, Conley said. Greet our kids with love from the curb to when they walk in the building or as soon as they get off the bus or dropped out of cars, we want to make them feel love. That Yellowjacket love! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Yellowjacket faculty is shining bright all around this year, high school principal Shanequa Dorsey was recently named as one of the states best. Dorsey was awarded the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals Region 7 Principal of the Year award in July. Jarvis Christian University welcomes students back to campus for 2025 Truly thankful! It is definitely a blessing and just shows that hard work, dedication and just doing whats best for kids, parents, community and it feels good to be recognized, Dorsey said. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. "Was it weird? Was it awkward?" Those are the questions people had been asking Julie Chrisley about reuniting with her husband Todd Chrisley weeks after the reality TV couple's prison release. Those same questions could have applied to Todd Chrisley's return to prison as a guest speaker and not as an inmate. On Thursday, Aug. 14, almost three months after Todd Chrisley left Federal Prison Camp Pensacola, thanks to a full pardon from President Donald Trump, the "Chrisley Knows Best" reality TV star was invited back there to speak at the final residential drug abuse program (or RDAP) graduation ceremony before FPC Pensacola closes (see below). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the graduation ceremony was not open to the news media, the Pensacola News Journal interviewed Chrisley just outside the guarded gate at NAS Saufley Field. My time in Pensacola (before) was not a great experience, but what I've seen today, the people have been lovely, said Todd Chrisley, who turned himself in to FPC Pensacola in January 2023 after being convicted of tax evasion and bank fraud. His wife and "According to Chrisley" co-star Julie Chrisley served time at FMC Lexington in Lexington, Kentucky, from January 2023 to May 2025. Todd Chrisley told the Pensacola News Journal, a USA TODAY Network newspaper in Florida, that he had worked on his speech for the graduation ceremony for about a month, and he had intended for it to be uplifting: "I wanted to instill hope in these men, my friends, and, but I also want it to be very revealing," Chrisley said. "I want to give them the credit for the sacrifices that they've made to go through this program because this program is not an easy program." This time, Todd Chrisley was a guest at the prison camp in Pensacola. What he said about his return visit Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A month after Todd and Julie Chrisley were released from their respective prisons, Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump, sat down with the Chrisleys at their home in Nashville, Tennessee, for an episode of her Fox News show, "My View with Lara Trump." It was their first return to TV since they were convicted in 2022 and imprisoned in 2023. The couple opened up about their experience in prison and the recent pardon and the "28 months" they had gone without speaking to each other. Said Todd Chrisley: "It's amazing. ... You know, you go to bed and you're in a prison, and you wake up the next day and President Trump has sent you home." Below is information about Todd and Julie Chrisley, their life in prison and the Trump pardon. Who are Todd and Julie Chrisley? When were 'Chrisley Knows Best' reality TV stars released from prison? For years, Todd and Julie Chrisley portrayed themselves as real estate tycoons on the USA Network series Chrisley Knows Best, which documented the Chrisleys' lavish lifestyle in Atlanta and Nashville. The show drew in more than 2 million viewers by its eighth season and inspired spinoffs such as "Growing Up Chrisley" and "According to Chrisley." However, their image as savvy real estate tycoons was sullied in June 2022, when the pair was found guilty of tax evasion and defrauding community banks out of more than $30 million in fraudulent loans, which funded their luxurious lifestyle. Julie Chrisley was additionally convicted of obstruction of justice and wire fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On May 28, 2025, Donald Trump, a former reality TV star himself, issued a full pardon for Todd and Julie Chrisley. The couple exited their respective prisons the next day. Todd Chrisley had originally received a 12-year sentence, with seven years for Julie Chrisley. Todd Chrisley was released from a federal prison in Pensacola, and Julie Chrisley was released an hour later from federal custody in Lexington, Kentucky. 'According to Chrisley' stars timeline: From reality TV to prison to pardon for Todd and Julie Why is FPC Pensacola, a Florida prison where Todd Chrisley served time, closing? The federal government says FPC Pensacola in Pensacola, Florida, is closing due to safety concerns over staffing shortages and crumbling infrastructure. The Navy is expected to demolish the buildings used there once the camp is closed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During his time there, Todd Chrisley sounded the alarm about what he said were poor conditions at the camp including black mold and asbestos, as well as corrupt staff that lead to people not getting decent food or medical care, among other issues. He supports the program but is glad to see this camp closed. We had a hand in it, but I like to say that God closed it, Todd Chrisley said during an Aug. 14 appearance at FPC Pensacola. I think that more will come. We as a country incarcerate more individuals, our own people, than anywhere else in the world. Yet we have the highest recidivism rate of anywhere else in the world. So that should tell you there, just by looking at numbers that what we're doing is not right. Its not working. After prison release and Trump pardon, what's next for reality TV stars Todd and Julie Chrisley? In the Lara Trump interview on Fox News Channel, the reality TV stars confirmed a return to the small screen: "We're coming back to television," Todd Chrisley said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Donald Trump's daughter-in-law asked what was next for the embattled reality TV couple, Todd Chrisley responded: "It's amazing that those that walked away from you are the first ones knocking at the door again. So we're coming back to television, and I think that we're heading back home. We're heading back to South Carolina where we came from, and we're going to open a hotel there, and we're going to create a show around it, and we're going to hopefully be grandparents at some point." Sangalang is a lead digital producer for USA TODAY Network. Follow her on Twitter or Instagram at @byjensangalang. Support local journalism. Consider subscribing to a Florida newspaper. This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Info about Todd Chrisley after Florida prison release, Trump pardon PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) Work on the new Tootsies Orchid Lounge, at the site of the old Spinnaker Beach Club, is progressing, though there are still some regulatory hurdles to be cleared. Panama City Beach requires businesses on more than three acres to request Large Conditional Use zoning. In this case, the owner, Tootsies South LLC, is required to hold a community meeting, where community members can voice concerns or opinions on the new development. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That meeting happened last week, and one person showed up. New Tootsies Orchid Lounge taking shape The city also requires Tootsies to submit the minutes of the meeting to the planning board seven days in advance of the zoning request. That hasnt happened. The applicant was in here to get a conditional. It used to be a bar, nightclub, or lounge within a commercial high-intensity zone that requires specific notice requirements, community meeting, and providing the planning department and planning board with a synopsis of the meeting and the details. That meeting synopsis was not submitted before the meeting. Therefore, we dont have all the check boxes checked that we need to proceed, so we are unable to hear that application today, said Panama City Beach City Attorney Cole Davis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As long as Toosties submits the public meeting minutes, the zoning request should be heard at the next beach planning board meeting on Sept. 10. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The Washington state Capitol on April 18, 2025. (Photo by Jacquelyn Jimenez Romero/Washington State Standard) Gov. Bob Ferguson on Thursday announced the hiring of a Biden administration executive to lead the state Department of Social and Health Services whose programs serve nearly a quarter of Washingtons population. Ferguson chose Angela Ramirez, chief of staff to former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra, to guide the department that oversees vocational rehabilitation, long-term care, behavioral health treatment and developmental disabilities services. Angela Ramirez (Photo by Amy Rossetti) Ferguson said Ramirezs deep experience in delivering essential human services, and focus on collaboration makes her exceptionally well-suited for this role. She will provide the direction and strategic vision needed to effectively deliver critical services across Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ramirez, a California native, will start Sept. 22 and earn an annual salary of $258,744. She will oversee an agency with about 18,000 full-time employees and a $25 billion two-year budget. Its multiple programs, including the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance, serve about 2 million people. The agency also oversees court-ordered behavioral health treatment at state hospitals, the Special Commitment Center and other facilities. Under Ferguson, theres been an organizational restructuring to streamline access to services and supports. In a statement, Ramirez said she understood the importance of supportive public services, noting her parents were farmworkers who experienced homelessness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whether someone needs housing, a job, mental health care, or simply the dignity of choice I believe in the power of government to help individuals shape their own lives, she said. Following the 2020 election, Ramirez was a senior staff member on President-elect Joe Bidens transition team. She served a year as a special assistant to the president in the Office of Legislative Affairs, becoming Becerras deputy chief of staff in 2022. She was chief of staff until Jan. 20 when Donald Trump was sworn in as president. Prior to joining the Biden administration, Ramirez spent nearly two decades working in congressional roles including a stint as executive director of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and more than a decade as chief of staff to then-U.S. Rep. Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico. Lujan now serves in the U.S. Senate. Ramirez is the second Biden administration official on Fergusons team. In January, the governor tapped Casey Sixkiller, then a regional administrator of the federal Environmental Protection Agency, to lead the Department of Ecology. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her hiring ends the governors monthslong search to fill the critical post. Ferguson asked Cheryl Strange, then secretary of corrections, to delay a planned retirement and serve as acting DSHS secretary as he conducted a nationwide search. Strange led the agency from 2017 to 2021. Strange did retire in May at which time Bea Rector was named acting secretary. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) made things personal with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) as he looks to resist Republicans in the Lone Star State pushing a new redistricting plan. Late last month, Texas GOP lawmakers unveiled a new state congressional map designed to secure at least five more safe seats ahead of the 2026 midterms widely seen as an effort to preserve Republican control of the House. The move, backed by President Donald Trump, has drawn pushback from Texas Democrats and Democratic governors, including Pritzker and California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who have proposed their own redistricting plans in response, sparking a nationwide map-drawing battle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a meeting for Democratic Party county chairs in Illinois, Pritzker told attendees on Wednesday that it is time to stop apologizing when were not wrong. And its time to stop surrendering when we need to fight, Pritzker said. And yes folks, we are messing with Texas. Paxton, who has been a leading voice of the Republican effort, fired back in a post on X: @JBPritzker, were not worried. Weve seen how ineffective youve been for your own state." Minutes later, Pritzker threw another punch. On biblical grounds, I think you should sit this one out, Pritzker wrote. On biblical grounds, I think you should sit this one out. https://t.co/5gWEyen7oU JB Pritzker (@JBPritzker) August 14, 2025 Pritzker appeared to reference Texas state Sen. Angela Paxtons announcement in July that she had filed for divorce from her husband. Paxton has previously been accused by his wife of adultery, The Texas Tribune reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, after 38 years of marriage, I filed for divorce on biblical grounds, she wrote on X. I believe marriage is a sacred covenant and I have earnestly pursued reconciliation. But in light of recent discoveries, I do not believe that it honors God or is loving to myself, my children, or Ken to remain in the marriage. Paxton had responded soon after: I could not be any more proud or grateful for the incredible family that God has blessed us with, and I remain committed to supporting our amazing children and grandchildren. I ask for your prayers and privacy at this time. The exchange quickly gained attention on social media, with Pritzkers jab eliciting mixed reactions. GET HIM, one user wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another user said that You of all people shouldnt mention the Bible. His post comes after more than 50 Texas Democrats fled their state, some to Illinois, earlier this month to block quorum as state lawmakers began a special session to pass the new map. An Illinois judge on Wednesday declined Paxtons request to hold those who exited in contempt. Meanwhile, Texas Republicans hinted that they may end the Legislatures current session on Friday and immediately call a new one. CNN reported that Texas Democrats met privately on Tuesday to discuss next steps. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. TOPEKA (KSNT) Beats, bars and bifocals a Topeka rapper performed five sets of rap music at a local senior center. The event took place at the Lulac Senior Center, where seniors joined in by singing, clapping and even dancing to the music. It bridges the generations because even though our folks are a lot older, they still love any kind of music, and his music was really super cool for them today, said Kathy Votaw, executive director of the Lulac Senior Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The performance ended with a group sing-along of Happy Birthday, celebrating three of the seniors at the center. Five-mile detour planned for north Topeka road work It is always an honor to be in the presence of people who have that much more experience than you, said the rapper, known as KiRa. 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. The Toronto International Film Festival announced this week that Barry Avrichs documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue, about Hamas Oct. 7, 2023 attacks in Israel, had been pulled from the lineup. According to organizers, the decision boiled down to an issue over footage rights issue and security concerns. But the filmmaking team and their supporters called the move censorship. The issued was resolved late Thursday, with festival organizers backtracking and announcing The Road Between Us as official selection. Here's a brief recap of what happened. More from Gold Derby WHAT IS THE FILM ABOUT? The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue is a documentary by the Canadian filmmaker and follows retired Israeli Gen. Noam Tibon as he attempts to rescue his son, journalist Amir Tibon, and his family during the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamasled attack on Kibbutz Nahal Oz in southern Israel. The film includes footage captured by Hamas militants during the attack, in which over a quarter of the kibbutzs roughly 400 residents were killed or taken hostage. THE FESTIVAL POSITION TIFF had invited the documentary to be part of its 2025 lineup but later withdrew the invitation, according to Deadline, which first reported the story on Tuesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, a representative for TIFF said, "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 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." Filmmakers were previously instructed to make editorial changes that specifically identified the source of graphic footage livestreamed by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023 footage that had already been publicly circulated. However, the festival maintains that it did not ask for editorial changes, but rather requested confirmation of the footages source and proof of legal clearance. THE FILMMAKERS' RESPONSE The filmmakers called the move censorship. In a statement, they said: 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." Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar condemned TIFFs decision, stating: This festival would have asked Hitler or Goebbels for copyright on Auschwitz footage. This vicious and sickening decision must be cancelled immediately! While Noah Shack, CEO of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA), added: This shameful decision sends an unmistakable message: Torontos Jewish community, which has long played an integral role at TIFF, is no longer safe or welcome. This should concern all Canadians and marks a stain on the festivals reputation. TIFF must reverse this decision immediately. The filmmakers emphasized that the footage was publicly available and argued that requiring permission from a terrorist organization was unreasonable. THE FESTIVAL REBUTTAL Toronto International Film Festival CEO Cameron Bailey pushed back against the censorship narrative. In a statement to Variety on Wednesday, Bailey apologized for any pain this situation may have caused, and said that this situation calls for compassion and sensitivity, and I recognize the concerns it has raised among members of the Jewish community and beyond. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 by asking for patience and understanding as we navigate this complex landscape. The events of Oct. 7, 2023 and the ongoing suffering in Gaza weigh heavily on us, underscoring the urgent need for compassion amid rising antisemitism and Islamophobia, he said. While we are not a political organization, TIFF will always strive to present our programming in a safe, inclusive environment. THE RESOLUTION While the filmmakers announced their intention to release the film independently so that audiences worldwide can see it, the film festival continued to be criticized for its decision. Then on Thursday, organizers did a 180. We have worked together to find a resolution to satisfy important safety, legal and programming concerns. We are please to share that The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue will be an official TIFF selection at the festival this year, where we believe, it will contribute to the vital conversations that film is meant to inspire, Bailey and Avrich said in a joint statement, which was first reported by Deadline. We look forward to announcing more details including the world premiere date on Aug. 20. HOLLYWOOD REACTS On Friday, more than 1,000 entertainment leaders signed an open letter released by the non-profit entertainment industry organization Creative Community for Peace criticizing the Toronto Film Festival for its handling of the The Road Between Us. The letter was signed by Amy Schumer, Debra Messing, Mayim Bialik, Jerry OConnell, Howie Mandel, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Sherry Lansing, Haim Saban, Rebecca De Mornay, Rick Rosen, Gary Barber, Ben Silverman, among many others, calling for accountability festival organizers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This incident is not an anomaly it is part of a disturbing pattern that has emerged since Oct. 7, in which Israeli and Jewish creatives in film, television, music, sports, and literature are confronted with barriers no other community is made to face. The deliberate effort to marginalize and silence Jewish voices in the arts worldwide is intolerable, and it cannot be allowed to persist," said CCFP Executive Director Ari Ingel. "While the film has been reinstated after a significant public backlash, the festival has not offered a sincere apology or explanation for the harm it created for the Jewish community." THE BIG PICTURE The controversy underscores the challenges festivals, distributors, and awards organizations are facing in a politically fraught climate. For example, this year's Oscar-winning documentary feature No Other Land, chronicling the alliance between a Palestinian activist and an Israeli journalist, has yet to find a U.S. distributor despite its acclaim. As one of the No Other Land's codirectors put it, There is much less space for this kind of criticism, even when it comes in the form of a film. This story was originally published Aug. 13 and updated with the joint statement from Bailey and Avrich, as well as the letter from CCFP. Best of Gold Derby Sign up for Gold Derby's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. The Toronto Film Festival has agreed to terms with director Barry Avrich and his Israel Oct. 7 documentary The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue over security and footage clearance concerns to allow the reinstatement of the film in the official lineup. The Canadian documentary centers on retired Israeli general Noam Tibon rescuing his family, including his son, from Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7, 2023 when they invaded kibbutz Nahal Oz. Earlier, TIFF organizers sparked opposition with a previous decision to not screen the Canadian documentary at its 2025 edition after issuing an invitation to the filmmaker. More from The Hollywood Reporter Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey issued a statement where he offered my sincere apologies for any pain this situation may have caused. It was never my intention to offend or alienate anyone. Bailey added: 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. But on Thursday, both TIFF and the filmmakers issued a joint statement indicating negotiations earlier in the day had resolved outstanding differences. We have worked together to find a resolution to satisfy important safety, legal and programming concerns. We are pleased to share that The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue will be an official TIFF selection at the festival this year, where we believe it will contribute to the vital conversations that film is meant to inspire, the statement said. Fest organizers earlier raised flags that clearances for footage of terrorist attacks taken by Hamas cameras and included in the documentary had not been obtained. Its understood that security concerns over a possible protest against the Israel Oct. 7 film also were in play. TIFFs 2024 edition was overshadowed by protests and a rescheduling of a premiere for filmmaker Anastasia Trofimovas controversial documentary Russians at War, a first-person account of Russian soldiers in Ukraine, and fest organizers appeared keen to avoid a similar disruption this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cancellation for The Road Between Us also raised concerns in the Toronto Jewish community over the cancellation of a film about Israel, and among The Road Between Us filmmakers. 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, said a statement from the documentarys filmmakers obtained by THR. 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, their statement added. The Toronto Jewish Filmmakers Network in a letter to TIFF and obtained by THR expressed concerns over viewpoint discrimination toward films about Israel and Jewish people shown by TIFF programmers. Removing this film sets a precedent that Jewish and Israeli stories can be silenced whenever political pressure is applied. This undermines TIFFs stated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, the statement continued. The ad hoc group of Jewish filmmakers pointed to the inconsistency of TIFF screening what it considered politically charged or anti-Israel films, including The Bibi Files (2024), Farha (2021), a Jordanian drama showing a Palestinian perspective on Israelis 1948 conflict with Palestinians, Incitement (2019) and Covered (2009), a short film by John Greyson critical of TIFFs Tel Aviv spotlight that year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These films each with contentious, politicized, and in some cases inflammatory portrayals were allowed to screen without being pulled under the pretext of security concerns or footage permissions. This double standard strongly suggests that The Road Between Us is being singled out because it centers a Jewish perspective on October 7, the Toronto Jewish Filmmakers Network argued in their open letter. The Toronto festival then held negotiations with director Avrich, who has had a long association with TIFF, on Thursday to ensure the earlier invitation to The Road Between Us could be restored. The world premiere date for The Road Between Us will be announced Aug. 20. Cameron Baileys statement follows in full: Dear Members of the TIFF Community, Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement August 14, 6:15 p.m.: Story has been updated to reflect successful negotiations between TIFF and filmmakers to allow a world premiere of The Road Between Us at the 2025 festival. Best of The Hollywood Reporter Sign up for THR's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. MAGA world is erupting at this MSNBC host. President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he would be taking control of the police department in Washington, D.C., and activating hundreds of National Guard soldiers to the city in an effort to combat crime despite city officials stressing that crime levels have already begun dropping. National Guard troops were spotted in the area shortly afterward. Benny Johnson, a conservative commentator and social media personality, used his appearance in the new media seat during the latest White House press briefing on Tuesday to criticize crime in D.C., while asking if a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer known as Big Balls, who was recently assaulted, be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson also pointed to criticism from former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton over the deployment of the National Guard. During a recent episode of The Briefing, Jen Psaki, a former press secretary under the previous administration, fielded Johnsons question. Well Benny, I have to hand it to you. That didnt disappoint with the insanity of that question, Psaki said. But first off, I mean Nancy Pelosi is right. The deployment of the National Guard is definitely not about actually lowering the crime rate. That has been going down. Its about changing the subject, its about normalizing military in the streets, its about a lot of things, she continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Johnson responded to the segment in a post on X late Wednesday, saying that Psaki just had a total meltdown LIVE On-Air. Circle Back Psaki was very angry that she had to say the name: Big Balls, Johnson wrote, adding Say his name. This is why we do it. Guys. This is not a drill. Jen Psaki just had a total meltdown LIVE On-Air at MSNBC over my questions during the White House press briefing. Circle Back Psaki was very angry that she had to say the name: Big Balls Say his name. This is why we do it WATCH: pic.twitter.com/mbLgRn9mq1 Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) August 14, 2025 Other critics had also pounced on the clip. LMAO!! Someone check on Jen Psaki She has @bennyjohnson Derangement Syndrome, another commentator said. The Post Millennial account posted that Psaki is triggered by Benny and Big Balls. Wild how the Left melts down over Big Balls... but not over big crime rates, Mehek Cooke, a Republican attorney, wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A different user said that I cant freaking stand circle back Jen psucky. Johnson went on to post that he wished he had the opportunity to ask Psaki a question, adding that Man, I miss these press briefings. So much to make fun of. While speaking at the Kennedy Center on Wednesday, Trump said that he would ask Congress for a long-term extension on federalizing the Metropolitan Police Department a move that would require Democratic support to ultimately pass. A section of the citys Home Rule Act allows the president to take control of the department, but only up to 30 days without congressional approval. He also recently suggested that other U.S. cities could be targeted next, including New York City, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, federal officials in early January announced that total violent crime in Washington for 2024 had reached a 30-year low. Since then, publicly available data shows that the rate has plummeted by 26%. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. President Donald Trumps move to federalize law enforcement in Washington, D.C., to bring an end to street crime meant that tourists and residents were met by the unusual and slightly eerie sight of U.S. military members patroling the city on Thursday morning as the sun rose. Members of the National Guard were present along the Mall as part of the administrations show of force, which was trailed in advance by an insider who spoke to ABC News. But the soldiers making up the significant militart presence were only ever likely to encounter visitors and school children on vacation touring the capitals historic landmarks at the height of summer, leaving the purpose of the exercise somewhat unclear. U.S. military members patrol near the Washington Monument in D.C. on Thursday August 14 2025 (Reuters) Thats part of our assignment to go to the national monuments and be present, U.S. Army spokesperson Col. Dave Butler told ABC. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the Guard told The Independent: The D.C. National Guard is actively supporting law enforcement partners in the district to enhance public safety and security, following the presidents directive. Approximately 800 DCNG members have been activated and are now deployed. The DCNG is committed to working in partnership with civilian law enforcement agencies and serving our community to carry out the presidents order. Trump insisted at a press conference on Monday that his strategy was necessary because crime in D.C. is out of control, a conclusion he appears to have reached after ex-DOGE employee Edward Big Balls Coristine was brutally assaulted in an attempted carjacking last month. Announcing that he was handing responsibility for policing the district over to Attorney General Pam Bondi and mobilising the Guard to protect the public, Trump insisted the city required liberation from violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement His claim is not consistent with official crime statistics for the last two years, which report that street crime is actually in a state of steep decline to 30-year lows, leading his opponents to suggest he is seeking a distraction from unfavorable media narratives, notably the Jeffrey Epstein uproar. Members of the U.S. military at the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in D.C. on Thursday August 14 2025 (Reuters) Trumps operation is reportedly being run by a joint task force led by Army Col. Larry Doane. Residents in the capital are unlikely to see more than around a quarter of the total number of assigned Guard members on the streets at any one time, as they are working in shifts. The deployment of additional forces on Wednesday evening was not without incident, with traffic-stops in the northwest of the city greeted by protests from around 100 members of the public, some of whom chanted, Go home, fascists!, according to The Washington Post. A Homeland Security Investigations agent questions a driver at a DC checkpoint on Wednesday evening (AP) Approximately 20 law enforcement officers, many of whom were wearing face masks and Homeland Security Investigations vests, stopped multiple cars at the busy intersection of 14th and W streets NW from 8 pm to around 10 pm, detaining at least two people, one of whom was a woman whose arrest inspired the crowd to shout at the agents: Read the Constitution! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An officer at the scene reportedly told the hecklers the team was checking for driving eligibility and status. Some members of the crowd reportedly ducked into a CVS pharmacy and returned bearing crudely-assembled signs that read Police checkpoint ahead and ICE, with which to warn approaching drivers. At the same time, another person blared Vanilla Ices hit Ice, Ice Baby from a speaker for the same purpose. Not everyone was eager to welcome New York City's Democratic mayoral nominee, Zohran Mamdani, to Staten Island on Wednesday afternoon. "Go back to where you came from. We don't want you on Staten Island," a protester wearing a "Trump girl" t-shirt and holding an American flag shouted at the 33-year-old self-described socialist as he exited the backdoor of the Istanbul Bay Authentic Mediterranean Restaurant. Inside the event, as Mamdani kicked off his third anti-Trump event of the week, protesters outside the restaurant drowned out the introductory speeches with their cowbells, sirens and megaphones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Despite the heat in the crowded restaurant and his detractors outside, Mamdani maintained a smile throughout the event and told reporters, "It saddens me to hear language of being told to go back to where I came from, and yet, it is not surprising because it is so much of what characterizes President Trump's politics." Mamdani Takes Aim At Trump's Immigration Policies In Fiery Staten Island Speech: 'We Are Fighting To Keep Nyc A Sanctuary City' Mamdani was hosting his third " Five Boroughs Against Trump " event of the week on Wednesday, reaffirming his commitment to protecting New Yorkers from Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration if he's elected mayor of New York City this November. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mamdani Zings Cuomo In Rent-stabilized Housing Spat During Anti-trump Tour Stop "I will not let it dissuade me from continuing to come to Staten Island, from continuing to speak to New Yorkers, no matter where they live, no matter what politics they have," Mamdani said in response to the protesters. "Because I know that just as there are Republicans who feel that way, there are others who are sincere in their questions." Several protesters outside the restaurant told Fox News Digital that they planned to vote for Curtis Sliwa, CEO of the Guardian Angels, this November. "He's the only one that could save our city," Ed, a Staten Islander carrying a large American flag, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ed told Fox News Digital that he wanted to give Mamdani "a little surprise party" and let the socialist candidate know that his values do not represent those of Staten Island. "This is Trump country," said Manny, another protester and Wall Street retiree who said Mamdani's policies are "anti-Wall Street." Trump won Staten Island by 30 points in the 2024 presidential election, according to The New York Times' data. Meanwhile, in neighboring Brooklyn, former Vice President Kamala Harris carried the borough by 44 points. Tommy Banks, a native Staten Islander, said his message to Mamdani on Wednesday was simple: "Get out of town." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He wants to make everything free. He can't afford that. He's a socialist. He don't live that. We're not socialist," Banks said. Banks agreed with the other protesters outside the restaurant, telling Fox News Digital that "nobody else" could be mayor but Sliwa. "He's a true New Yorker. He's been fighting for New York all his life. Give him a chance to get in there," Banks said. Another protester, Liz, shouted, "Mamdani's a commie!" as the Democratic nominee departed in his SUV. Liz said she doesn't like Mamdani because "he's not a Democrat, he's a communist." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She said Mamdani is trying to tempt New Yorkers with campaign promises like free childcare, free bus fare and government-run grocery stores, but Liz said it would be a "disaster" if he became mayor. When Mamdani declared victory in the Democratic primary, incumbent mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, called Mamdani a "snake-oil salesman" that would "say and do anything to get elected." Trump has often criticized Mamdani and his policies, calling him a "100% communist lunatic." Staten Islanders who spoke to Fox News Digital outside Mamdani's anti-Trump event on Wednesday seemed to agree with those sentiments, calling him a "commie" and criticizing his socialist policies, which include freezing the rent, raising corporate taxes and increasing the minimum wage. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Shahana Masum, who sported a "Zohran for Staten Island" sticker on her purse and attended the event, told Fox News Digital that Mamdani is the person who is representing "me and my community." Masum said she has also been told to go back to her country. And to that she said, "You didn't go back to your country, and I came here with dignity and with my visa, so don't tell me to leave." Fox News Bryan Llenas and Marly Carroll contributed to this report. Original article source: Get out of town!: Staten Island crowd confronts Zohran Mamdani at anti-Trump rally The Brief Tampa International Airport is expanding its international routes with the latest stops to include more flights to Bogota, Colombia. As travelers plan their trips to more destinations, research shows more travelers are using more artificial intelligence to map out their itineraries. TAMPA, Fla. - More destinations are coming to Tampa International Airport, and travelers are planning their trips there with the help of AI. What we know Tampa International Airport is growing in size and offerings. The newest international route includes flights to Bogota, Colombia from Avianca Airlines, and those will ramp up with daily nonstop flights in October. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ:Hertz using artificial intelligence at Tampa International Airport to inspect rental cars for damage TPAs chief commercial officer, Chris Minner, said TPA wants to meet the need. "We reach out to the airline decision makers multiple times every year. My team and I will be traveling to Hong Kong next month, and we've got more than 30 speed-dating appointments already established," said Minner. "We're going to be talking to the airlines that fly here today and all the airlines who can fly here in the future." He said they would like that to include destinations like Dublin, Ireland; Lima, Peru and Sao Paulo, Brazil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Air Canada to halt all flights by weekend as flight attendant strike looms "We are a really, rapidly growing market. And we've been underserved with international nonstop flights for generations. So really, we're playing catch-up in trying to deliver the global access that our region really deserves," said Minner. "Our international flights at Tampa International Airport have been extremely popular. Over the last year, more than 1.6 million passengers. That's up 24% versus just the prior year." Dig deeper When it comes to planning trips, research shows more travelers are turning to artificial intelligence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If you want to Google and try to prepare your own itinerary, most probably you have to spend hours and hour and hours. But when it comes to AI, it happens only minutes, sometimes seconds," said Seden Dogan, an assistant professor of instruction at the University of South Floridas Muma College of Business. Dogan said about 60% of travelers are using some kind of artificial intelligence in their planning. READ:Frontier Airlines CEO warning: Flight reductions likely amid drop in demand "If you want to go to New York for weekend as a solo traveler, you can ask ChatGPT or other type of language learning models to come up with minute-by-minute itinerary for you," said Dogan. What they're saying Some airline passengers at TPA said they are sold on trying out AI in travel planning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Parents working in full time, you don't have as much time to look into things as much, and it's probably more accurate, so yeah, I would definitely use it in the future," said Joanna Thorp, from Essex, United Kingdom. While others said they arent so sure. "I would have to see other people do it first and see how well that goes. And then maybe I would think about it," DeJon Davis, a traveler flying out of TPA. "At the moment I probably wouldn't try it, but maybe in the future. Just having to rely on something else to do the whole planning, I would like to actually know the whole process myself." MORE: Spirit Airlines to furlough 270 pilots amid lower off-season demand Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Professor Dogan said there are concerns about bias and data privacy in AI. But, she said if you try it out, be specific with your prompts. "If you feed them with enough information, the result will become more customized and personalized," said Dogan. Also, validate or double-check the results youre getting, Dogan said, so you dont end up in a hotel or restaurant that doesnt meet your expectations. The Source The information in this story came from Tampa International Airport officials and the University of South Florida and was gathered by FOX13s Briona Arradondo. UNICOI COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) A traffic shift will begin on Friday afternoon on Interstate 26 in Unicoi County as crews get close to finishing repairs from Hurricane Helene. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) stated in a news release that as of Thursday, one lane of the interstate is open in either direction between mile markers 39 and 40 in Erwin. The lanes use the eastbound side of the interstate while work occurs elsewhere. TBI releases new age-progressed Summer Wells picture Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to TDOT, the outside lane of traffic will open on each side of I-26 on Friday afternoon. The inside lanes of the I-26 bridge will stay closed as crews finish up repairs in this area, the release states. The entrance ramp from Jackson Love Highway to I-26 West will also reopen. The I-26 bridges were swept away by the Nolichucky River during record flooding brought on by Hurricane Helene on Sept. 27, 2024. TDOT crews completed construction of the new I-26 East bridge in March, and TDOT expects the I-26 West bridge to be finished on or before Sept. 15, 2025. TDOT did note that the completion of the repairs does hinge on weather conditions, and drivers are still asked to use caution in the area as workers are present. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather. The trial over President Trump's deployment of thousands of National Guard troops to Los Angeles earlier this summer reached its third and final day Wednesday, as lawyers for the Justice Department and the state of California argued over the validity of Gov. Gavin Newsom's lawsuit and whether the Posse Comitatus Act which generally bars the military from engaging in domestic law enforcement applied to the troop deployment. Mr. Trump in June deployed 4,000 California National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles, saying they were needed to protect federal property and law enforcement agents amid June protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Newsom did not approve of the use of his state's Guard forces and responded with a lawsuit requesting an injunction limiting the military's role in the city. In addition to claiming the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act does not apply, Eric Hamilton, a lawyer for the Department of Justice, argued that there is no precedent for the lawsuit, for injunctive relief or money damages under the act, and that Newsom and the state of California have not suffered the harm required to sue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It is, in fact, the federal government who is engaged in unprecedented conduct," said Deputy Attorney General Meghan Strong, representing the State of California, explaining that the government has never used the military in this way before. U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer seemed perplexed by several of the government's assertions, particularly what he called the apparent "absence of any limits to a national police force." He questioned the Justice Department's claim that the 19th century law at the center of this trial is not relevant, and the assertion that his court lacks jurisdiction to issue an injunction against the president. "So then what is the remedy?" Breyer asked Hamilton, raising the issue of presidential immunity from criminal prosecution. "You're saying there's a criminal remedy? The president can be prosecuted? You say that in light of the Supreme Court decision, the Trump decision. Isn't he immune?" "So that's it. Too bad. So sad. It's over," he added emphatically. "And that's the end of the case." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement California has asked Breyer for an injunction that would allow the military to protect federal property such as 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." "The constitution and the law and the facts are on Governor Newsom's side," said Josh Kastenberg, a professor at the University of New Mexico Law School. "But that doesn't mean he's going to win. Ever since World War II, the courts have embraced this military deference doctrine, which really is presidential deference in matters of military command and control." Questions over scope "We're going to see federal officers everywhere if the president determines that there's some threat to the safety of a federal agent," Breyer said to Hamilton. "And it's his determination. Not mine, it's his. That's what you're saying. That's what the law is." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamilton said that wasn't "quite what I'm saying." He asserted the troops are not enforcing federal law, but providing protection, and that it is lawful for guardsmen and marines to provide protection for federal buildings the one point he agreed with California's attorney on. But, he argued, there is no distinction between protecting federal property and protecting federal law enforcement working out in the field. Breyer pointed out that federal employees "are everywhere." The judge further questioned why any National Guard members remain in Los Angeles, and expressed concern about the justification for continued operations. Hamilton testified that 300 guardsmen remain, a 90% reduction in the force. Strong countered that it is still a significant number of soldiers, and certainly enough to violate the law. "Thank goodness for the National Guard, but why is the federalized National Guard still in place?" asked Breyer. "What's the threat today? What was the threat yesterday?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I go back to the thing that I'm really troubled by: What limiting factors are there to the use of this force?" he said, "Once you have a force in place, and maybe legitimately do so, and the threat that gave rise to the force in that place subsides how does one look at this national police force that goes out of where the threat was and starts executing other laws?" Does the Posse Comitatus Act apply? Breyer appeared to take issue with the Justice Department's argument that the Posse Comitatus Act does not apply, noting that a key witness, Major General Scott Sherman who was at one point the commanding general of the Guard task force in Los Angeles had testified that the troops were trained to act within the bounds of that law. "Then why is it the excellent Major General sought assurance that the Posse Comitatus Act was followed?" said Breyer. "Why did I spend a day looking at slide after slide, and regulation after regulation, and reports after reports on conduct of the soldiers to ensure that they were in compliance with the Posse Comitatus Act if the Posse Comitatus Act is irrelevant?" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strong argued that all of the Department of Defense's leaders agreed that the Posse Comitatus Act applied to the Task Force 51 troops in Los Angeles. She said they substituted the word "protection" for "security" when describing the troops' activities because they knew that "security" would violate the act. She asserted that the secretary of defense had released a memorandum invoking a constitutional exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, and affirmatively instructing soldiers to engage in activities that violated it but the memo was issued after those activities had taken place. On Tuesday, Sherman testified that he was advised of a "constitutional exception" that enabled the troops to conduct certain activities that would normally violate the Posse Comitatus Act. Strong called this an attempt by the Department of Defense to justify their actions after the fact that "itself reveals a knowledge and awareness of their violations." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The federal government is "disregarding the law, and so we need show nothing more than that," said Strong. She further argued that the Constitution seeks to make sure the president cannot control a standing army the way the king had in 1776. She said that it would deny the basic principles of federalism for the state to have "no legal recourse to challenge the conduct of these troops." "If you look at the plain language of the Posse Comitatus Act, and the fear of standing armies that existed at the time of the Constitution," Kastenberg said. "... One of the biggest issues in the state conventions and in the framing of the Constitution to begin with was to significantly curtail the president's authority over the standing army, and keep the standing army very small." Breyer did not give a timeline for his ruling, stating at the end of the day, "I will decide the case as soon as I can decide the case." Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? A new way to battle bloodborne staph infections could help save lives while combating the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, according to new clinical trial results. Two intravenous doses of the antibiotic dalbavancin delivered seven days apart worked just as well as daily IV doses of conventional antibiotics in quelling Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections, researchers reported Wednesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. "Given the small number of antimicrobial drugs available to treat Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections and the bacteria's growing drug resistance, establishing dalbavancin as a beneficial therapy for these severe infections gives us a vital new alternative to treat them," Dr. John Beigel said in a news release. He's acting director of microbiology and infectious diseases at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NIAID sponsored and funded the trial, which involved 200 hospitalized adults with complicated staph blood infections treated at 23 medical centers in the U.S. and Canada. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either two doses of dalbavancin or daily IV antibiotics, with overall treatment lasting four to eight weeks. In all, 100 received dalbavancin and the same number had standard antibiotics. Dalbavancin is a relatively recent antibiotic discovery, approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in May 2014, according to Drugs.com. The standard antibiotics used depended on the type of staph a person had. Cefazolin or penicillin were used for regular staph, while vancomycin or daptomycin were implemented against antibiotic-resistant staph, also known as MRSA. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Results showed that dalbavancin worked about as well as standard therapy, providing doctors a new option for treating a severe staph infection. "Our findings give patients and health care providers the data to support an extra choice when deciding on treatment for complicated S. aureus bacteremia," lead researcher Dr. Nicholas Turner, an assistant professor at Duke University School of Medicine in Durham, N.C., said in a news release. What's more, the dalbavancin was easier to deliver. People receiving daily antibiotics needed an implanted catheter that remained in place for the full duration of their treatment -- something that can lead to complications like blood clots and additional infections. By comparison, people receiving dalbavancin only needed a short catheter inserted twice for about an hour each time, researchers said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As a result, side effects like blood clots occurred more often in the standard treatment group compared to the dalbavancin group, researchers found. Serious side effects were about as common with dalbavancin as with standard antibiotics -- 40 cases versus 34 cases, results show. However, severe events leading to treatment discontinuation occurred in 12% of the standard treatment patients compared to 3% of those treated with dalbavancin. Researchers next plan to compare the cost-effectiveness of the two approaches. More information The Cleveland Clinic has more about staph infections. Copyright 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved. (The Center Square) County officials say the Coeur dAlene Tribe may build a fish hatchery in Spokane, but approval would also give the out-of-state group a seat on the health board and input on spending. Jim Emacio, a special deputy prosecuting attorney, told the Spokane Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday that the tribe has requested to transfer nearby property it owns to a federal trust. The tribe purchased the nearly 48-acre plot located within the city of Spokane a few years ago, but now wants to transfer it from a fee to trust status. Fee land is run-of-the-mill real estate under state law, but when transferred to a trust, the federal government holds the title for recognized tribes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Upon transfer, the tribe would no longer have to pay property taxes, saving a modest $617 annually; however, recent changes in state law would also give the tribe representation with the health district. [The tribe is] going to use this property necessary to meet mitigation measures with regard to other properties they develop, Emacio said. Their long-term use may be a fish hatchery because this property is located near Latah Creek, and theyd like to connect to Latah Creek to the Spokane River. The Legislature passed a law in 2022 that required local health boards to include federally recognized tribes in that jurisdiction. There arent any tribal reservations in the county, but the law also extends to land trusts, which the Kalispell Tribe of Indians and the Spokane Tribe of Indians already hold there. To initiate a transfer, the owner must submit a request to the U.S. Department of the Interiors Bureau of Indian Affairs, or BIA. The property must comply with environmental regulations for approval, but before that, BIA must notify the local government and gather local feedback before signing off on it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The county commissioners drafted a letter to BIA making its case against the CDA land transfer, which they will vote on next week before sending it ahead of an Aug 30 deadline. Emacio said BIA gives a lot of weight to the land transfer requests, regardless of the distance from the tribes reservation. The Center Square contacted the Coeur d'Alene, Spokane and Kalispell tribes over whether they plan to request seats on the Spokane Regional Health Districts Board of Health, but didnt receive an immediate reply. This is just another example of [Sen. Marcus] Riccelli, [D-Spokane], pushing an agenda without fully understanding the consequences, Commissioner Al French told The Center Square on Wednesday. French raised concerns last month over the health board potentially doubling in membership because of the changes to state law. The CDA tribes ancestral lands stretch into eastern Washington, but its reservation is in Idaho. He worries that other out-of-state groups may also seize the opportunity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are 574 federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native Villages in the country, and according to the Native Project, a community health center, over 300 tribes have people living in Spokane County. French said each of those tribes could potentially buy land in Spokane and transfer it to a trust status, awarding them seats on SRHDs board and a say in local health decisions and the districts spending. He wants the Legislature to address the issue again next year, particularly around out-of-state tribes. As we know with other properties, the tribes are doing this, Commissioner Mary Kuney said Tuesday regarding the transfer. They buy with the intent, I think, with the fish hatchery, to try to help there at Latah Creek. TRINITY COUNTY, Texas (KETK) During the Trinity County Commissioners Court meeting on Tuesday, the commissioners voted to place the proposal of creating a new jail on the November bond election. Due to the proposal being added to the upcoming bond election, Trinity County Sheriff Woody Wallace will be hosting several town hall meetings and live social media forums to inform residents about the impacts of a new jail. Wallace stated that the meetings are not intended to persuade voters but to educate them and provide them with accurate information. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are not advocating for or against the jail project, Wallace said. Our goal is simply to ensure the public has accurate, complete information before voting. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones reveals cancer diagnosis and credits experimental drug As residents prepare to vote on whether or not they believe Trinity County needs a new jail, Wallace is encouraging them to make the choice based on what they think is best for their families, while respecting their neighbors right to their own opinion. Thank you for your interest and involvement in this important matter, Wallace said.I will keep you updated as soon as more information is ready to share. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download your local site's app to ensure you're always connected to the news. And look for our special subscription offers here. 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 Tropical Storm Erin continues to gain strength in the Atlantic and is forecast to become a hurricane by Friday with the potential to bring rough surf to the East Coast, the National Hurricane Center said Thursday. As of 5 a.m., Erin was located about 990 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. The storm is moving west at 17 mph and is expected to strengthen significantly over the next 48 hours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The National Hurricane Center predicts Erin could become a major hurricane by the weekend, potentially reaching Category 3 intensity with winds up to 115 mph by early next week. Tropical Storm Erin is expected to strengthen to a major hurricane by the weekend and could bring rough surf to parts of the U.S. East Coast, the National Hurricane Center said. While no coastal watches or warnings are currently in effect, the Hurricane Center warned that interests in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico should closely monitor the storms progress. Swells generated by Erin are likely to cause dangerous surf and rip current conditions in these areas by the weekend. The storm is forecast to pass near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands over the weekend, with uncertainty about potential impacts, including rough surf, to the Bahamas, U.S. East Coast, and Bermuda next week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Residents in potentially affected areas are advised to stay informed about the storms progression and follow guidance from local emergency management officials. Current weather radar 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 has begun strengthening as it streaks west across the Atlantic and is on track to reach hurricane status as soon as Friday, prompting tropical storm watches in the northern Leeward Islands. As of Thursday afternoon, Barbuda, Antigua, St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, Sint Maarten, Saba and St. Eustatius were under a tropical storm watch, meaning they could see tropical-storm strength winds in the next few days. The National Hurricane Centers latest forecast keeps the storm north of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, but forecasters expect the islands to see heavy rain, intense waves and even tropical storm-force winds as the large storm passes by this weekend. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As for Florida, the forecast still calls for a curve north, keeping the worst of Erins impacts offshore. Long-range computer models are in even better agreement that this turn is coming on Monday, with almost no spaghetti model lines tracking toward the Sunshine State. Despite that, its still unclear exactly what Florida or the eastern seaboard could see from Erin, which is expected to grow into a broad and powerful storm by the time it passes. That means its winds, waves and rains could extend far beyond the center. The latest forecast track also nudged slightly south and west, potentially bringing the outer edges of the storms winds and waves closer. 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, forecasters said in the Thursday midmorning discussion. Hurricane hunters were scheduled to explore the storm later Thursday, and the data they collect will help feed the models, making forecasts more accurate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Thursday afternoon, Erin was slightly stronger, with maximum sustained winds around 60 mph. Its breakneck pace west had slowed a bit, to 17 mph, allowing it the opportunity to start organizing and strengthening in the warmer waters and lower shear its set to encounter Thursday and Friday. The hurricane center calls for Erin to rapidly intensify before the weekend a term used when a storms sustained winds get at least 35 mph stronger in 24 hours. In this case, forecasters expect Erin to leap from a tropical storm on Friday to a major Category 3 hurricane by Sunday. The latest forecast calls for Erin to be at 125 mph sustained winds by Tuesday, on the verge of Category 4. The hurricane center is also eyeing another disturbance in the Gulf, near Mexico. Thursday afternoon, the hurricane center upped the likelihood of strengthening in the next two to seven days to 40%. Tampa Bay Times hurricane coverage 2025 Heres a look at the 2025 hurricane season forecasts so far. What to know about river flooding in Tampa Bay this hurricane season. Here are the lessons you learned from Tampa Bays historic 2024 hurricane season. Checklists for building all kinds of storm kits Here are the latest updates on Tropical Storm Erin from the National Hurricane Center. Tropical Storm Erin located 2,475 miles east of Tallahassee, Florida 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Location: 16.3N, 48.2W 2,475 miles east of Tallahassee Maximum sustained winds: 50 mph Present movement: West at 17 mph Minimum central pressure: 1,002 millibars 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. 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." Hurricane drama vs. data: Why Erin is a miniscule threat to Florida, U.S. east coast Latest advisory from National Hurricane Center on Tropical Storm Erin At 5 a.m. AST, the center of Tropical Storm Erin was located near latitude 16.3 North, longitude 48.2 West. Erin is moving toward the west near 17 mph. This general motion is expected to continue today, with a west-northwestward motion beginning tonight 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. Maximum sustained winds are near 50 mph with higher gusts. Gradual strengthening is forecast during the next day or so, with more significant intensification possible on Friday and Saturday. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 60 miles from the center. The estimated minimum central pressure is 1,002 mb. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The advisory warns of the following dangers: SURF: 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. Please consult products from your local weather forecast office. A depiction of rip current risk for the United States can be found at: hurricanes.gov/graphics_at5.shtml?ripCurrents Tropical Storm Erin spaghetti models 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. Tropical Storm Erin: See projected path, storm tracker Watches, warnings issued for Tropical Storm Erin There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Interests in the northern Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico should monitor the progress of Erin. Watches and warnings issued for Florida NWS radar for Tallahassee, Florida Helpful hurricane resources and links Get your home ready: Here's how to prepare your home for a hurricane, from well in advance to just before a storm's arrival Need to prepare for a hurricane? Here's what you should have in a disaster supply kit Hurricane preparedness list: If a storm is coming, here is what you need to do now Video: Helpful tips for a hurricane survival kit Hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones: What's an invest and why do they keep saying tropical cyclone? Officials encourage residents to assemble a hurricane kit early, storing enough supplies to last at least three days. Doing so ensures there are adequate supplies available on store shelves and prevents a rush and shortages that regularly occur when a storm is imminent. Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text What's next? We will update our tropical weather coverage daily. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: Tropical Storm Erin: Follow storm, impacts in our Tallahassee tracker The Brief Dawendell White was found shot in the head inside his Troup County home after initially being reported as injured from a fall. Co-workers discovered White unresponsive after he failed to show up for work, leading them to check on him at his home. Investigators do not believe there is any danger to the community, suggesting the victim may have known the shooter. MOUNTVILLE, Ga. - A 47-year-old man is in critical condition after being found shot in the head inside his Troup County home early Monday morning, authorities said. Shooting of Dawendell White What we know The Troup County Sheriffs Office said deputies were called to the Mountville community, near the Meriwether County line, after a 911 call reported a man injured in a fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When deputies arrived, they found Dawendell White lying on the floor of his home. Co-workers discovered White after he failed to show up for work, prompting them to check on him at his home. Troup County sheriff investigates shooting What they're saying "At first, the call came in as a fall," Lt. Stewart Smith of the Troup County Sheriffs Office said. "It just appeared that he did not fall. Plus they got there and a door was open. And so that was their first clue that maybe he left it open. Maybe he did. When they got there and they found him unresponsive, they thought maybe somebody entered the home or left and shut the door or something like that. So that was kind of their first clear that something was not normal at the house." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deputies said White was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta, where an X-ray confirmed he had been shot in the head. Investigators said they have been working the case since Monday morning and do not believe there is any danger to the community a statement that can indicate the victim may have known the shooter. What you can do Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Troup County Sheriffs Office. The Source The Troup County Sheriffs Office provided the details for this article. On Sunday, GOP Texas Gov. Greg Abbott made it clear: His partys fight to gerrymander the states congressional map could literally last years. But as the story has played out since Texas Republicans first met in early June to discuss redrawing congressional districts, another thing has become apparent: This is an authoritarian powergrab. Abbott and Texas Republicans are seeking to take away at least five congressional seats from the Democrats. Redistricting has historically occurred once every ten years. The districts that would be eliminated are predominantly Black and brown, and these millions of voters would be effectively disenfranchised. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The effort is coming at President Donald Trumps request as a means of securing an advantage in the upcoming midterms and beyond. This would also give Trump and his MAGA successors an advantage if the presidential election were to be decided by a congressional vote. The moves by Trump, Abbott and other Texas Republicans should be seen for what they are: Part of a much larger campaign to end multiracial democracy on a national level. It continues the trend of red states such as Texas, Indiana and Florida being laboratories for American autocracy and Trumpism. On Aug. 5, Trump told CNBC that the Republicans in Texas are entitled to more congressional seats in Texas. In a democracy, this is not true. Political candidates and parties win elections by persuading the public that they have earned their vote. Demagogues believe they are entitled to votes and the power that comes with it. Trumpmandering is this principle of corrupt power applied to gerrymandering on a nationwide scale. As I explained in a recent essay, Trump and his MAGA Republicans are advancing policies that are wildly unpopular with most Americans. Instead of adjusting course, theyre doubling down not to win more votes, but to rig outcomes. Their tactics include voter nullification, suppression, gerrymandering, lawsuits, dark money and even threats of violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In total, this tactic of burrowing into a democracy and then destroying it from within is a classic strategy among authoritarians and autocrats. Though the whole episode appears extreme, it is straight out of the playbook of would-be authoritarians around the world, said Susan Stokes, a political science professor at the University of Chicago and the faculty chair of the Chicago Center on Democracy. Their core goal is to loosen the mechanisms of accountability. Steep drops in accountability, she said, are a key measure social scientists look for in considering whether democracies are endangered. We look for simultaneous declines in horizontal accountability the ability of coequal branches of government, whistleblowers and autonomous public bodies to monitor and constrain chief executives and in vertical accountability, [which is] the ability of voters to reelect officials when they have performed well and turn them out of office when they have performed badly. All of these, of course, have been in precipitous decline since Trump returned to office. His moves, Stokes said, puts him in the company of leaders like Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement David Pepper, the author of Laboratories of Autocracy: A Wake-Up Call from Behind the Lines, also reached for the Hungary comparison. This is Orban-style competitive autocracy in action in America. He continued: This is far bigger than Texas, as bad as it is. When you consider the broader map [where] theyre attempting to gerrymander mid-decade Texas, Ohio, Missouri, Florida and Indiana, at least what were witnessing is November 2020 [to] January 2021 all over again. Trumps just interfering in elections before they occur, rather than after. The presidents anxiety, Pepper said, stems from historical precedent; the party in power usually loses seats in midterm elections. Trump is worried sick the GOP will lose its House majority in 2026, just like it did during his first term in 2018. He also remembers his own loss in 2020 and the efforts of 147 House Republicans to overturn the election results when the chamber met to certify the election. But instead of close electoral college states, hes going after states where they hope to flip House seats in advance in order to avoid those losses before they happen. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The difference, of course, is that before Jan. 6, those officials did not have recent experience or an inclination to interfere with elections after they had happened. So they largely said no. But since most of these politicians have a long and sordid history of gerrymandering districts to guarantee outcomes its how many themselves occupy power today theyre far more willing to do Trumps bidding this time. Since Trumps election and inauguration, national Democratic leaders have remained largely passive, confused and ineffective in resisting Trump and the MAGA movements assault on democracy. As a practical matter, Democrats do not have a winning brand or messaging, and they are desperate to find one. By comparison, Texas Democrats have acted boldly: They fled the state to deny Abbott and Republicans the quorum needed to push through their authoritarian gerrymandering scheme. And they have held firm in their resistance, despite facing an onslaught of threats, including a request from Texas Sen. John Cornyn for the FBI to help track down the lawmakers and enforce civil arrest warrants, exorbitant fines, formal censure, expulsion and their seats declared vacant, and bribery investigations, because they accepted funds to help defray travel costs in leaving Texas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cornyn announced on Friday that the FBI had granted his request. If true, it would mean that federal law enforcement is now doing the political work of Trump and the Republican Party by targeting their political enemies. And if Abbott proves successful in having the absent lawmakers seats declared vacant, Texas Republicans would have a quorum and gain de facto total control of the state legislature. According to reporting by the Texas Tribunes Kayla Guo, the Democratic lawmakers have conceded they may lose the fight. But they hope to set an example for Democrats and to lay the groundwork for a national fight over redistricting. The national Democratic Party leadership needs to lead, follow or get out of the way so that bolder (and younger) leaders can take their place and engage in a more effective resistance campaign that will give the party a much better chance of winning in the 2026 midterms and beyond assuming free and fair elections still exist in the U.S. 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. At a meeting held in Chicago last week, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said, This is not the Democratic party of your grandfather, which would bring a pencil to the knife fightThis is a new Democratic party. Were bringing a knife to a knife fight, and we are going to fight fire with fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Unfortunately, the party has shown no such fire since the disastrous 2024 election and Trumps return to power. California Gov. Gavin Newsom has also been a loud and strong advocate of a much more aggressive strategy. Last week, he said, Donald Trump is trying to steal the 2026 election. We cannot sit back and watch this happen. Newsom has also proposed using gerrymandering against Republicans in California if the Texas plot continues to offset any GOP gains in congressional seats. Steven Fish, a political scientist and a leading expert on authoritarianism and democracy, applauded Newsoms high-dominance leadership style as an example of how the Democrats should fight back against Trump and the MAGA movement. Newsom, he said, seems to grasp the imperative of confronting Trumps cramped, ethnonational story with a compelling counternarrative[he] is going on the offensive on immigration in a way few other Democrats have dared for decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fish pointed to Newsoms bold viral video that refuted MAGAs xenophobic narrative about immigration and attributed Californias economic dominance as the worlds fourth-largest economy all to the fact that fully 27 percent of Californians [are] foreign-born. Re-enchanting democracy is required to save it, Fish said, and that can be done only by bold Democrats who arm themselves with stirring national narratives that glorify and defend the mainstays of Americanism that Trump betrays every day: Democracy, service to country, openness to new arrivals and ferocious commitment to the security of the nation and its democratic allies. Democratic Govs. Kathy Hochul of New York and J.B. Pritzker of Illinois also support using gerrymandering and other such means in their respective states and more broadly across the country to counter the Republican Partys authoritarian gerrymandering. This growing push among Democratic governors to match the GOP blow-for-blow could lead to a potential spiral of escalation, where one partys moves are responded to in kind by the other party. What gets damaged in the process is Americas democratic culture and political institutions. But as in war, the side that refuses to respond in kind, or to escalate, risks an outcome where they may be defeated without having used all of their forces. Cold War nuclear strategists had a term for this dilemma: Use it or lose it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an email, Norman Ornstein, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a prominent pro-democracy voice, offered a dose of realpolitik. [This] will inevitably spread to many other states, both red and blue. Democrats have to respond, when the alternative is to disarm unilaterally and enable even more the march to full autocracy. He also issued a sober warning. But we need to understand that even if the response leads to a wash in partisan advantage, it is deeply unhealthy to have started down this path. We will have more and more states where a party with 40 or 45% of its voters will have zero or minimal representation in Congress, which will eat away even further at the systems legitimacy. Even if we come out of this dark period with the structures of our democracy intact, this is a deep blow to our constitutional system. The Democrats and other pro-democracy Americans are running out of time. According to an analysis by writer and ABC News legal contributor Kimberly Wehle, Project 2025 is already 47% complete. Trump has been president for just seven months. If Democrats continue to hold their forces in reserve, they risk being fully steamrolled by Trump and his MAGA movement. To better contextualize the GOPs authoritarian redistricting strategy, I asked historian Matthew Dallek, who is the author of Birchers: How the John Birch Society Radicalized the American Right, for his insights. He offered a sobering warning, one that merits being quoted in full. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Whats different about this moment from prior redistricting battles is the context in which it is occurring, Dallek said. It comes after a decade in which norms, rules and traditions have been tossed aside; bedrock assumptions about multiracial democracy a more or less bipartisan commitment to extending the Voting Rights Act, a broad desire to defend the idea of majority-minority districts and equal representation, the federal governments role in ensuring states dont discriminate in elections on the basis of race have all been undermined via the courts and political actors. Dallek noted that this all stems from Trumps vise grip on the Republican party. He specifically pointed to Trumps encouragement of foreign actors like Russia and Ukraine to come to his aid; the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol, which was fomented by lies that the 2020 election was rigged and stolen by Democrats; and the Justice Department launching criminal investigations of Trumps political opponents, including former President Barack Obama and New York Attorney General Letitia James. Trumps naked effort at authoritarian gerrymandering is a reminder that American democracy is not functioning well, Dallek said. It is a sign of the times. The latest evidence of how the foundations of equal representation and voting rights are being eroded. The political system is teetering and there is no clear end in sight to the partisan struggle for power in the United States. The post Trump, Abbott and the GOP bring Orban-style autocracy to Texas appeared first on Salon.com. FIRST ON FOX: The Trump administration is announcing the launch of a new tool it says will be instrumental in enabling agencies across the federal government to efficiently implement artificial intelligence at scale and take a major step forward rolling out the president's "AI Action Plan." Trump's U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) said on Thursday it has launched USAi, a tool the agency describes as a "secure generative artificial intelligence evaluation suite that enables federal agencies to experiment with and adopt artificial intelligence at scalefaster, safer, and at no cost to them." The agency says that the platform, available starting Thursday at 10 a.m. through USAi.gov, gives government users access to "powerful" tools like chat-based AI, code generation and document summarization with the goal of "supercharging employee productivity." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "USAi isnt just another tool, its infrastructure for Americas AI future," GSA Chief Information Officer David Shive explained. "USAi helps the government cut costs, improve efficiency, and deliver better services to the public, while maintaining the trust and security the American people expect." Ai Tech Detects Hidden Heart Disease Doctors Often Miss President Donald Trump displays a signed executive order during the "Winning the AI Race" summit hosted by AllIn Podcast and Hill & Valley Forum at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium on July 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. GSA Deputy Administrator Stephen Ehikian told Fox News Digital that this latest application is an "on ramp" to A.I. that will be the "tip of the spear" on the A.I. front similar to the way GSA previously implemented the cloud. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration rolled out its A.I. Action Plan in July after Trump ordered the federal government in January to develop a plan of action for artificial intelligence in order to "solidify our position as the global leader in AI and secure a brighter future for all Americans." Trump has made U.S. A.I. growth a cornerstone of his administration, such as notching multi-billion deals with high-tech firms such as Oracle and OpenAI for the Stargate project, which is an effort to launch large data centers in the U.S, as well as a $90 billion energy and tech investment deal specifically for the state of Pennsylvania to make it the U.S. hub for AI. "USAi means more than accessits about delivering a competitive advantage to the American people," GSA Deputy Administrator Stephen Ehikian said in press release. "The launch of USAi shows how GSA is translating President Trumps AI strategy into action and accelerating AI adoption across government. USAi will put mission-ready tools directly into the hands of agencies to modernize faster, boost security, and lead globally." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The A.I. Action Plan includes a three-pillar approach focused on American workers, free speech and protecting U.S.-built technologies. "We want to center America's workers, and make sure they benefit from AI," A.I. and crypto czar David Sacks told the media in July when details of the A.I. plan were made public. Scoop: Trump Admin, Openai Partner To Unleash Artificial Intelligence On Federal Government President Donald Trump gestures in the State Dining Room of the White House, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Washington. "The second is that we believe that AI systems should be free of ideological bias and not be designed to pursue socially engineered agendas," Sacks said. "And so we have a number of proposals there on how to make sure that AI remains truth-seeking and trustworthy. And then the third principle that cuts across the pillars is that we believe we have to prevent our advanced technologies from being misused or stolen by malicious actors. And we also have to monitor for emerging and unforeseen risks from AI." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advancing the federal government's use of A.I. and expanding employee access are core to the GSAs efforts to fulfill Trumps directive to preserve U.S. leadership in the global technology race, GSA Commissioner Josh Gruenbaum explained to Fox Digital in an interview earlier this month. "As we kind of examined the President's AI action plan, heard the call to action of, Hey, this is a race, and we are going to win this race. From our perspective, all that meant, synonymously, was widespread adoption," he told Fox Digital of delivering AI to federal employees. The United States Capitol is juxtaposed alongside a digital A.I. graphic. The rollout of the USAi tool follows GSA announcing earlier in August that OpenAI's ChatGPT Enterprise is now available to all federal agencies to incorporate into their workflow at $1 per agency. The deal with OpenAI, the tech company behind ChatGPT, is part of GSA's OneGov Strategy that aims to modernize "how the federal government purchases goods and services" under the Trump administration. GSA also notched another deal with A.I. company Anthropic this month providing all three branches of government access to large language model Claude. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gruenbaum told Fox News Digital that Thursday's announcement will be critical for agencies for creating efficiencies to help turn the federal workforce into "the most nimble, smart, efficient, agile, and agentically tech-forward workforce out there so that this country can continue to compete and win the AI race." Original article source: Trump admin unveils groundbreaking tool 'supercharging' gov't efficiency to 'win the race' for AI dominance For the state of California, President Donald Trumps deployment of Marines and National Guard in response to protests over immigration raids in Los Angeles was an illegal military crusade based on Trumps desire to push his political agenda and silence dissent. For the Trump administration, its about the protection of federal law enforcement officers against a rebellion. For a judge who weighed both of those arguments this week in San Francisco, it is up to him to decide what the limits are on presidential power, at a time when that presidents thirst for militarizing cities is growing and Justice Department lawyers argue that states have no choice on the matter. Senior U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer heard arguments, evidence and witness testimony over three days this week underpinning California Gov. Gavin Newsoms lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging that the federalization of troops deployed to the Golden State violated the Posse Comitatus Act. The 1878 law bans the use of the military in civilian law enforcement activities unless there is consent from Congress or it is expressly authorized by the Constitution. HuffPost is committed to fearlessly covering the Trump administration. Click here to support our mission and become a member today. The administrations arguments seemed to largely hinge on claims that Trumps authority to deploy forces is sweeping because he has a vested interest in protecting the United States and that is part of his inherent constitutional powers as president the doctrine is called protective power. In effect, the department argued, it was virtually impossible for Trump to violate the Posse Comitatus Act. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even if the plaintiffs can bring a civil cause of action under the theory that the governments conduct was ultra vires meaning beyond its lawful powers the standard is exceedingly high, Justice Department attorney Eric Hamilton said. Breyer often seemed dubious when it came to many of the Justice Departments arguments. He also seemed skeptical of the carve-outs and exceptions the administration said gave Trump vast powers. At one point, he even asked Justice Department attorneys why he was being bothered to review reams of evidence about the Posse Comitatus Act at all, since it seemed the president had already drummed up an exception that made it irrelevant. I mean, its like, gee, maybe you should tell your client that they dont have to follow the Posse Comitatus Act if thats your view, he said. At a later point, Breyer told one U.S. attorney that you cant just look at words and, sort of like Alice in Wonderland, say words mean whatever I want them to mean. The case centered on Trumps move to deploy 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles this summer, over the objection of the state officials who would normally have jurisdiction. Trump claimed they were needed due to supposed rioting, an echo of the claim he would use again the same day in a different venue when the trial started: On Monday, Trump formally announced that he was deploying 800 National Guard troops into Washington, D.C. and threatened that more cities could soon find themselves under a federal takeover including New York City, Baltimore, Chicago and Oakland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The combination of the trial in California and the troops mobilized to D.C. gives a new urgency to the issue before Breyer. When urging the judge to issue a preliminary injunction, or a stop, to Trumps deployment of troops to Los Angeles and declare that he violated the law, California Deputy Attorney General Meghan Strong encapsulated the stakes that are now involved for every American. The federal government wants a display of military force so great that any lawful opposition to their agenda is effectively silenced, she said. What Hangs In The Balance Newsom never wanted federalized troops trawling Los Angeles. Immigration enforcement, he said in June, was something California was no stranger to and no federal assistance was required. The same went for quelling pockets of civil unrest that sprang up in response to staged immigration raids, including those at MacArthur Park a public park, not federal property where nearly 100 troops equipped with Humvees and other shows of force appeared but ultimately came up empty-handed. Trumps memo calling up the Guard and Marines claimed that the protests in Los Angeles constitute a form of rebellion against the authority of the government of the United States, which allowed him to invoke a statute known as Section 12406. The obscure federal code states that if there is a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the government, and it cannot be resolved through regular order, then the president has the right to call into Federal Service any amount of National Guard he deems appropriate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rebellion is not legally defined, but even if it were, the state of California says it wouldnt matter in this instance because the protests in Los Angeles never came close to truly overwhelming local, state or federal law enforcement. And once troops were on the ground, the state says, the Trump administration made direct and active use of the military to execute the laws, something that is verboten under the Posse Comitatus Act. Related: 'Wild!': CNN Data Chief Says This Trump Story Is 'Quickly Turning Into A Dud' The Trump administration insists those troops were only there in an indirect capacity and were providing protection and support to federal agents under what Defense Department memos deemed constitutional exceptions to the 1878 law. And whats more, the Justice Department claims that because the Posse Comitatus Act is a criminal statute, and Newsom brought a civil lawsuit to stop the administration, Breyer lacks the jurisdiction to place any injunction on the president. When Breyer heard this in court, it appeared to stop him cold. He posed a hypothetical to DOJ attorney Eric Hamilton: If, Breyer said, Trump had violated the Posse Comitatus Act, what then? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What then is the remedy? You say there is no civil remedy. Are you saying the president could be prosecuted by the Department of Justice for a criminal act? And you say that in light of the Supreme Courts immunity decision. Isnt he immune? Breyer asked, referencing the 2024 Supreme Court ruling which declared the president has legal immunity for anything related to his official acts. While Hamilton agreed that prosecution would certainly implicate immunity issues, the point was that, in the view of the U.S. government, no matter the defendant, there was no remedy available. FILE - Federal agents stage at MacArthur Park, July 7, 2025, in Los Angeles. via Associated Press Breyer seemed deeply skeptical. So thats it? Its too bad, so sad, its over? he asked. And thats the end of the case, even though its a violation, allegedly, of the Posse Comitatus Act? This line of argument didnt surprise lawyers for California, who left the judge with a stark assessment of a problem that has the potential to overflow beyond the borders of one state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It lacks basic common sense to assert that a state that is being occupied by a standing army within the states borders has no legal recourse to challenge the unlawful conduct of these troops. That defies the basic principles of federalism and it ignores Congress clear intent when enacting the Posse Comitatus Act, Strong argued. A Rock And A Hard Place Over the years, the Posse Comitatus Act has been interpreted by the courts at length and it has always been a subject within the courts core competence to decide, said Laura Dickinson, a George Washington University Law School professor who specializes in national security, human rights issues and matters involving the law of armed conflict. Related: Hillary Clinton Spells Out Exactly How Trump Could Win The Nobel Peace Prize The judiciary is now in a massive difficulty, she says, as it tries to balance legitimate presidential deference with the interests of a public that still lives in a democracy bound by its Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The executive branch is making very, very broad arguments about the limits of the courts powers that we havent seen before, she said. Besides the threat to the public, an unnecessary deployment also creates a lot of room for Marines and National Guard to find themselves in perilous or demoralizing situations. With more boots on the ground in American cities, the first risk, of course, is that peoples rights could be violated. FILE - A U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agent looks on during a protest outside the Federal Building on June 13, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Wally Skalij, file) via Associated Press The Constitution applies to everything police do on U.S. soil and everything the military might do in a policing role on U.S. soil., so people have rights to be free from excessive use of force, or unwarranted or unlawful search and seizure, Dickinson said. The thing is, the National Guard and the Marines dont get a lot of training, generally speaking, on what is considered essential to policing. Right now, [the] Guard under state control do some supporting work, so some units are getting training. But its very uneven around the country, and the rules for use of force by the military or Guard are very different in times of peace versus times of war. When troops are put into a volatile and highly politicized dynamic by policing fellow citizens, Dickinson said it puts them on a knifes edge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They must follow lawful orders of civilian authorities. That is crucial in a democracy, that is crucial for good order and discipline in the military. They are legally obligated to follow those orders. At the same time, they could be responsible for refusing to disobey manifestly unlawful orders, she said. When you put members of our military or National Guard, who have made great sacrifices to serve this country in this difficult position, it is really damaging. Militarized cities arent usually found in democracies. By putting the nations cities, military and judiciary in the situation, it is having the exact opposite effect of the strong, stable, flourishing America Trump boasts of. It risks making the U.S. look weak and unstable, she said. Where does this end? After the trial concluded, Judge Breyer did not say how quickly he would issue a ruling but only that it would be soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If he rules in favor of California and finds that Trump violated the Posse Comitatus Act, then the administration will appeal, Hamilton said in court on Wednesday. The case will then go to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. In June, ahead of the trial, the appellate court already ruled that troops in L.A. could stay while litigation was pending because Trump had extensive, but not unreviewable, authority to deploy troops to American cities. If the 9th Circuit upholds a ruling in favor of California, then the next likely course of action for the Trump administration would be to go straight to the Supreme Court with a request for arguments on the merits of the case. Theres no guarantee that the High Court would hear it, but with any increase in troops being deployed, it may become impossible for justices to ignore. But by then, it may be too late. Tom Homan, the acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, summed up the administrations feelings when speaking to reporters on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Trump doesnt have a limitation on his authority to make this country safe, he said. There is no limitation. Joseph Nunn, counsel in the Brennan Centers Liberty and National Security Program, told HuffPost that if Breyer issues an injunction directing the president to demobilize the National Guard and hand control back to California, there technically is no wiggle room, legally speaking, for Trump to ignore or flout the ruling. Related: Ukraine Expert Reveals The 1 Thing Trump Cares About And Its So On Brand If that happens and the administration appeals, the 9th Circuit may opt to issue a stay on Breyers injunction while the merits are weighed by the judges there. But in any scenario, Trump winning or California winning, Nunn sees a showdown at the Supreme Court as the most likely outcome. Its hard to know what Judge Breyer will decide but in an inevitable appeal who knows what the Supreme Court will do, ultimately? he said. Alternatively, Breyer may find that the statute Trump invoked in his memo this June Section 12406 is a valid exception to the Posse Comitatus Act. While Nunn said he doesnt read it that way, he could see a situation in which Breyer wouldnt find it entirely unreasonable. The statute, in some ways, reads like it should be an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act and there are multiple exceptions to it, like the Insurrection Act, for example, he said. In the past, when presidents wanted to use the military for domestic law enforcement, that was what they invoked. Members of "Street Performers of Radical Komedy, join activists at a rally to, "Take back MacArthur Park," and call for a boycott of Home Depot stores in light of recent immigration-enforcement operations in the area in Los Angeles on August 9, 2025. After the rally they marched to the Home Depot in the Westlake District that was raided last week by federal agents. They were also protesting the Trump administration's ongoing crackdown on illegal immigration. Genaro Molina via Getty Images The Posse Comitatus Act is the most important restriction on domestic activities of U.S. armed forces but it has an enforcement problem, Nunn said. This country has a problem when the president has too much authority to use the military domestically. Since it is a criminal statute, it should be enforced by the Justice Department. And Nunn says in all of U.S. history, only two people have ever been prosecuted for violating the Posse Comitatus Act. (The convictions came in 1879, just a year after the law was enacted.) When alleged violations of the Posse Comitatus Act have come up in court before, its usually when a civilian criminal defendant has raised it in relation to charges against them, like asserting evidence against them was obtained in violation of the act, Nunn explained. Californias efforts here to enforce it through a civil suit seeking an injunction is novel. It hasnt been tried before, Nunn said. But in these past cases, courts have virtually always found ways to either find that the Posse Comitatus Act did or did not apply, and if it was violated, make a remedy available. But here again, Nunn said, there is a risk of arriving at this situation where this very important law is basically unenforceable. If the Trump administration is given even a modest green light by Breyer, Nunn said its really up to Congress to decide whether it will reform or rein in the powers a president has to authorize the military for domestic use. Thats Congress problem to fix. Thats not a function of the president, Nunn said. Laws that govern the domestic use of military force would need a broader overhaul. The law, Nunn said, is like a birds nest of overlapping things with various loopholes that need to be closed. But if just thinking about the Posse Comitatus Act, Nunn says the first thing that should be done is to make it so the act is not a criminal statute and reform it so that people and states can sue to stop violations of the act and potentially seek damages if they have been harmed. Related: The Case That Could Test The Lengths Of Trumps Military Power The memo that Trump signed in June purporting to grant authority to the military to deploy federalized National Guard troops and other active duty forces is something Nunn said he encourages the American public to review carefully. The memo doesnt mention Los Angeles. It doesnt mention California. It has no time limit or temporal boundary. There is no geographic boundary. So that memorandum asserts the authority to deploy federal armed forces to assist law enforcement anywhere in the country at any time for any reason, Nunn said. Nothing like this has ever happened before in the history of the United States. The last person to assert such sweeping authority to use the military anywhere at any time in this country was King George. More on Politics Federal Judge Clashes With DOJ Lawyers As Possible Constitutional Crisis Looms 'I'm Fine!': CNN's Jake Tapper Awkwardly Caught On Hot Mic Amid Trump-Putin Summit Trump Treats War Criminal Dictator Putin Like Royalty, Still Fails To Get Ceasefire Read the original on HuffPost The United States Treasury Department has revealed it is sanctioning two Mexican drug cartels, Carteles Unidos and Los Viagras, and seven affiliated individuals on allegations of terrorism. The Treasury Department announced the sanctions on Thursday. Separately, the Justice Department stated it was charging five high-ranking members of Carteles Unidos with crimes related to drug trafficking. These actions further President Donald Trumps directive to completely eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations threatening the American people, the Treasury said in a social media post. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent explained that the sanctions would help the US government hamstring the cartels ability to generate revenue, including through cross-border commerce. Todays sanctions action draws further attention to the diverse, insidious ways the cartels engage in violent activities and exploit otherwise legitimate commerce, Bessent said. Labelling cartels foreign terrorist organisations Both Carteles Unidos and Los Viagras are said to be active in the Mexican state of Michoacan, where the Treasury said that they use funds from drug trafficking to hire mercenaries, bribe officials and buy weapons. Thursdays sanctions will freeze any US-based assets the targeted individuals may have, and people in the US are prohibited from making transactions with them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration has pledged to take a hard line against criminal groups and those involved in drug trafficking, including by labelling some Latin American criminal networks as foreign terrorist organisations. Experts, however, have questioned the efficacy of such steps and raised fears that they could backfire, penalising nonprofits and civilians who live and work in gang-controlled territory. Also on Thursday, the Department of Justice announced that it was offering rewards for information leading to the arrests of Carteles Unidos leader Juan Jose Farias Alvarez, also known as El Abuelo or The Grandfather, as well as Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, Luis Enrique Barragan Chavez, Edgar Orozco Cabadas and Nicolas Sierra Santana. They are charged with participation in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute drugs for importation to the US. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Altogether, the rewards totalled $26m, with the highest single bounty offered for Farias Alvarez, at $10m. Critics fear US military action in Mexico Earlier this week, the Mexican government sent 26 suspected cartel members to the US to face charges, the second such transfer this year. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasised that the transfer was a sovereign decision she undertook, but critics have expressed concern that the US has been exerting increasing pressure on her government to bend to its will. Last week, for example, US media reported that Trump signed an order authorising the US military to carry out operations against cartels and other criminal groups, a move that Mexican politicians have warned could result in US troops on Mexican soil. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That, critics warn, would constitute a serious violation of the countrys sovereignty. Sheinbaum, however, attempted to dispel concerns in a news conference: There will be no invasion of Mexico, she said. Mexico, meanwhile, has also called on the US to take greater steps to restrict the massive flow of weapons from sellers and manufacturers north of the border. Mexican authorities and other experts have argued that those weapons fuel the violence committed by criminal groups. But the US has rebuffed such efforts, and in June, the US Supreme Court struck down a lawsuit from the Mexican government arguing that the flow of illicit firearms constituted negligence. Six months after United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres proposed that the global organization take on some of the funding for the multinational force thats been struggling to tackle violent gangs in Haiti, the Trump administration says it is ready to support the plan. The United States intends to share a draft U.N. Security Council Resolution with the U.N. Security Council that establishes a U.N. Support Office for a multinational security force in Haiti, a State Department spokesperson confirmed to the Miami Herald. The spokesperson did not say when the resolution will be presented for a vote, but sources said it may come up at a Security Council meeting about children, armed conflict and human rights in Haiti. The discussion is being planned by Panama, which is presiding over the Security Council this month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. backing for the logistics package will breathe new life into discussions about the Kenya-led mission in Haiti, said Daniel Forti, a senior U.N. analyst with the International Crisis Group. But Washington cant presume the other Security Council members will easily go along with them after months of delay. Gangs have increased their control of Port-au-Prince while the U.S. slow-walked its deliberations. American diplomats should prepare for the heavy lift needed to get this effort over the finish line. Washingtons long-awaited support for Guterres proposal comes at a complicated time in the Trump administrations relationship with the U.N. Congress last month approved an administration proposal to take back more than $7 billion in foreign aid spending, which included millions of dollars to U.N. agencies and $361.2 million that was previously approved for international peacekeeping operations. While aid groups and others are trying to determine what actually got cut, U.N. officials had already warned that the effects of cuts by the U.S., which was already in arrears on its assessed U.N. contributions, were already showing up in existing missions as they scrambled to save cash. Meanwhile, the U.S. can expect pushback from China and Russia, which have never passed up a chance in discussions about Haiti on the Security Council to criticize Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So far, the pledges in a U.N. Trust Fund for Haiti amount to $112.5 million. It is just enough to pay for salaries, but not enough for equipment or to support the expansion of the multinational security force, which was envisioned to have 2,500 personnel. There must be concrete commitments from other regional partners and stakeholders including robust financial and contributing force commitments, the State Department spokesperson said, commending the dedication of the courageous members of the Kenya-led mission MSS and Haitian police. The scourge of gang violence throughout Haiti has a destabilizing effect not just in the country but in the hemisphere, said the spokesperson, adding The United States continues to support the Haitian governments efforts to defeat the gangs and restore stability in the country and our region. In February, Guterres proposed that instead of deploying traditional peacekeepers to Haiti, the Security Council maintain the current Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission in the country, but establish a support office to provide structural and logistical support. The office, he proposed, would be funded from the U.N.s peacekeeping budget, which member nations contribute to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months, however, the proposal has been in limbo as gang violence surges, more neighborhoods fall and the country sets a new record, 1.3 million, for the number of people displaced by the violence. Until now Washington had remained mum as to whether the U.S. intended to push for a deployment of traditional peacekeepers or support Guterres plan. In the meantime, the Haitian government has turned to a private military firm run by Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater, for help. But the groups presence and use of weaponized drones by an anti-gang task force operating out of the prime ministers office has raised concerns about collateral damage, and the overall strategy for tackling the causes of the gang crisis. Guterres, who isnt a fan of peacekeeping operations and said there is no peace yet to keep in Haiti, has suggested a dual-track strategy to enable the Kenya-led force, the Haiti National Police and Haitian authorities to substantially reduce gang territorial control through peace enforcement. Pushing for a more robust mandate that would allow for the use of force and the capacity to conduct targeted operations against gangs, he has also proposed the creation of the U.N. Support Office to provide logistical and operational support through the U.N.s peacekeeping budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, as members of the Security Council met to decide on an extension of the mandate of the U.N. political mission in office, some members expressed frustrations over the lack of clarity on a way forward. They were not alone. Kenyan President William Ruto, in a June letter to the council, spoke about the need for more and better equipment, and more funding and personnel. The first two Kenyan police contingents of 199 and 184 police officers that arrived on June 25, 2024 and a few weeks later in early July, respectively, are due to be rotated out, the Kenyans have said. While Kenya had trained 1,000 officers for deployment, 261 mission-ready officers remain on standby because the current contract for life support in theatre cannot cater for them, Ruto said. The operations contract for the base in Haiti for the Kenyan force expires on Sept. 30, the day the missions one-year mandate is up for renewal before the Security Council. Asked about funding for the base, a U.S. Defense Department spokesperson said the Pentagon provided an extension to the MSS, but declined to discuss details. OSLO (Reuters) -When U.S. President Donald Trump called Norway's finance minister last month to discuss tariffs, he also told him he wanted the Nobel Peace Prize, Norwegian business daily Dagens Naeringsliv reported on Thursday. Several countries including Israel, Pakistan and Cambodia have nominated Trump for brokering peace agreements or ceasefires, and he has said he deserves the Norwegian-bestowed accolade that four White House predecessors received. "Out of the blue, while Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg was walking down the street in Oslo, Donald Trump called," Dagens Naeringsliv reported, citing unnamed sources. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He wanted the Nobel Prize - and to discuss tariffs." In a comment to Reuters, Stoltenberg said the call was to discuss tariffs and economic cooperation ahead of Trump's call with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Stoere. "I will not go into further detail about the content of the conversation," he added. Several White House officials, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer were on the call, Stoltenberg added. The White House and the Norwegian Nobel Committee did not reply to requests for comment. With hundreds of candidates nominated each year, laureates are chosen by the Norwegian Nobel Committee, whose five members are appointed by Norway's parliament according to the will of Swedish 19th-century industrialist Alfred Nobel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The announcement comes in October in Oslo. The Norwegian newspaper said it was not the first time Trump had brought up the prize in conversation with Stoltenberg, a former secretary general of the NATO military alliance. The White House on July 31 announced a 15% tariff on imports from Norway, the same as the European Union. Stoltenberg said on Wednesday that Norway and the United States were still in talks regarding the tariffs. (Reporting by Nerijus Adomaitis; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne and Rod Nickel) US President Donald Trump has said that he believes Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is arriving at the Alaska summit on Friday 15 August, with the intention of "making a deal" to end the war in Ukraine. Source: CNN via European Pravda Details: Ahead of his meeting with Putin, Trump shared his expectations for the talks. "I believe now hes convinced that hes going to make a deal. Hes going to make a deal. I think hes going to. And were going to find out Im going to know very quickly," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US president added that his goal is to move towards a trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, suggesting three different places for it, including the possibility of staying in Alaska. "If its a bad meeting, Im not calling anybody Im going home. But if its a good meeting, Im going to call President Zelenskyy and the European leaders," he said. When asked whether he would offer Russia economic incentives during the meeting, Trump avoided a direct answer. "Well, Id rather not say because I dont want to play my hand in public, but whatever my hand is, economic incentives and disincentives maybe are more important, in a way, but incentives economically, you know." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked if his sanctions threats might have influenced Putins decision to agree to meet in Alaska, Trump replied that everything has an impact and stressed that secondary tariffs against India had essentially eliminated its purchases of oil from Russia. He said that, of course, when one lost their second-largest customer and was probably going to lose their largest, that probably played a role as well. Background: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated earlier that Trump would call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader. Trump also said that if the Alaska meeting with Putin goes well, he will arrange a second meeting in which Zelenskyy could participate. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! WASHINGTON (DC News Now) President Donald Trump seemed quick to dismiss the idea of D.C. statehood during an event with members of the media on Wednesday. Statehood is ridiculous, its unacceptable, he said. What we want to do is make Washington, D.C. the most beautiful, safest capital anywhere in the world. And thats going to happen. The comment came as the battle for D.C. statehood intensified this week, with the president extending his power over the District by mobilizing the National Guard and taking control of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). All of this in an effort to reduce violent crime, according to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thats despite violent crime being down 26% year to date in D.C. RELATED COVERAGE: White House boasts arrest numbers after Trumps takeover of DC Police Mayor Muriel Bowser is encouraging community leaders to step up. What you shouldnt do is wait for me to tell you what to do, she said during a community forum Tuesday. This is a time where the community needs to jump in. And we all need 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 to get to the other side of this guy. She also said the country needs to elect a Democratic U.S. House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So that we have a backstop to this authoritarian push, said Bowser. The encouragement comes as neighborhood leaders continue to serve their communities. Were working behind the scenes, were working as best we can with channels that are promoting and supporting our individuals, said Tiffani Johnson, an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) in Manor Park. Johnson said constituents are turning to their local ANCs with questions and concerns. Fear, theres an abundance of fear, she said. She said this fear has made it difficult to plan their next public meeting. I was on a call last night with my ANC, and while we want to have a meeting to support our neighbors, we cant publicize that meeting because were fearful that ICE, or some federal entity, is monitoring our chats, monitoring our meetings and could show up, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shes encouraging neighbors to stay in touch with the commissioners during this time. She also maintains that statehood is a must. RELATED COVERAGE: National Guard members arrive in DC as President Trump declares a public safety emergency We have to stand firm, said Johnson. Its hypocritical thinking when we keep talking about freedom, freedom, freedom, said Edward Daniels, an ANC in Navy Yard. With the President saying, Oh yeah, youre never going to get statehood, Im going to run the city possibly, that hurts. There are a lot of us that are working our butts off in this city. And I dont think he gets it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That includes himself and his fellow commissioners. We are doing our best to keep residents informed and safe and protected because this is an unprecedented time and a scary time, he said. Daniels said he was encouraged by the Mayors comments Tuesday night. I think the message was great. Were dealing with someone who is unhinged and we dont know what else hes going to order. And were waiting for these 30 days to expire, said Daniels. While the wait continues, hes encouraging people to share what theyre actually seeing on the ground here in the District. When someone steps up and says you cant walk down our streets without bullets flying at you, people are going to believe that, unfortunately. And thats not the case in this city, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. White House chief of staff Susie Wiles was behind President Donald Trumps highly unusual decision last week to rehire a vaccine regulator hed just fired at the urging of MAGA influencer Laura Loomer. Wiles' intervention in getting Vinay Prasads job back, as described by two senior administration officials granted anonymity to discuss sensitive details, followed pleas from both Prasads boss, Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Marty Makary, and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. They insisted that Prasad is part of Kennedys broader Make America Healthy Again movement and integral to the Trump coalition. After Vinay left, Marty and Bobby worked very, very, very hard through Susie Wiles, the president's chief of staff, to tell the president that Vinay was not anti-Trump, one of the senior administration officials said. The MAHA movement is an expansion of the MAGA, sort of, you know, big tent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps reversal demonstrated the limits of Loomers influence and marked a fragile win for Kennedy in pursuing his plans to overhaul U.S. regulation of vaccines and drugs and confirmation that the White House still sees Kennedy as a useful political ally as the midterm elections approach. Trump had forced Prasad out of his FDA job less than two weeks earlier after the Cambridge, Massachusetts, pharmaceutical manufacturer Sarepta Therapeutics, joined by GOP allies and Loomer, sought his ouster. Prasad in July had pushed the FDA to ask Sarepta to stop selling its Duchenne muscular dystrophy drug Elevidys due to safety concerns, according to one of the senior administration officials. Sarepta spokesperson Tracy Sorrentino wrote in an email that the company will continue working with the FDA, its leadership and review teams, as we have always done." In arguing Prasad was disloyal to Trump, Loomer had pointed to social media posts he made during the pandemic, in which Prasad said that he was once a Bernie Sanders supporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prasads rehiring isnt the end of the war between Kennedy and his allies, and Loomer and corporations from pharma to food manufacturers that see Kennedy as a threat. Loomer, for instance, has only amped up her critique, most recently telling POLITICO that she planned to go after more Kennedy aides. Loomer remains close to Trump, and he has occasionally, though not always, followed her advice on personnel decisions. Loomer did not respond immediately to a request for comment. The FDA referred questions to the White House. Secretary Kennedy and the entire HHS team are doing a terrific job as they deliver on President Trump's mandate to Make America Healthy Again," White House spokesperson Kush Desai said. "Scores of prominent restaurant chains and food brands dropping artificial ingredients from our food supply and historic reforms at the FDA to fast track lifesaving drugs and treatments prove that the entire HHS team is delivering for the American people. According to the officials, Makary and Kennedy persuaded the White House to review statements by Prasad that Loomer said showed disloyalty, arguing they were taken out of context. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think it really is something good about the president that he's willing to change his mind when persuaded, one of the senior administration officials said. But the victory could prove pyrrhic if Prasads ability to set policy is diminished. Before his firing, Makary had named him not only the head of the FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, which oversees regulation of vaccines and gene therapies like Elevidys, but also the agencys chief medical and scientific officer. Makary, like Prasad, was a leading critic of the Biden administrations response to the Covid pandemic. Prasad, a University of Chicago-trained hematologist and oncologist, was previously a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), the author of a 2018 law Trump signed that permits patients greater access to experimental therapies, told POLITICO he texted Trump days ahead of Prasads ouster to raise concerns of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy patient community about the FDAs efforts to restrict Elevidys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The company initially refused to comply with the agencys July 18 request that it halt shipment. It agreed on July 21 to stop shipping the medicine by the end of business the next day to maintain a productive and positive working relationship with FDA. The agency then allowed the company to resume distribution to ambulatory patients on July 28, a day before Prasads ouster. Those patients are a subset of people with the condition, which weakens muscles and leads to the loss of the ability to walk, typically by age 12. Most die before they reach 30. Johnsons Right to Try Act, which Trump repeatedly touted on the campaign trail as a signature achievement of his first term, aims to allow patients with life-threatening diseases to try experimental medicines without FDA involvement. The agency has a separate longstanding program known as compassionate use that allows such patients to access experimental treatments when other options do not exist. I have never met or spoken to Dr. Prasad, Johnson said when asked about Prasads return. I hope all the new appointees within HHS and its subsidiary agencies restore integrity to scientific research, fully respect both the letter and spirit of the Right to Try Act, and carefully listen to and empathize with the patients who are impacted by their decisions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former FDA officials said they expect the power struggle between Republicans who support pharma and Kennedy to continue. Loomer, meanwhile, says she now wants Trump to dismiss Stefanie Spear, Kennedys principal deputy chief of staff and senior counselor, and Casey Means, Trumps nominee to be surgeon general. Casey Means is a close Kennedy ally and sister of Kennedy adviser Calley Means. I think she wants to split the MAHA and MAGA coalition, one of the senior officials said of Loomer. She wants to split them in two. Tim Rohn is a member of the Axel Springer Global Network. Welcome to 5 Things PM! A copyright battle over the viral childrens song Baby Shark has finally come to an end. An American songwriter had taken the tunes Korean creators to court over plagiarism allegations. Heres what else you might have missed during your busy day. 5 things Photo Illustration by Alberto Mier/CNN/Getty Images 1 A visual timeline President Donald Trump has long tried to distance himself from billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died in jail while awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges in 2019. But a CNN review of court records, photographs, interviews, and other public documents reveals a relationship that endured until the mid-2000s. 2 Stop your wine-ing Your medical provider may be more aggressive about high blood pressure levels at your next appointment. And brace yourself: The first new guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology since 2017 suggest abstaining from alcohol to keep you healthy. 3 Hookup culture Casual sex is often considered the norm in college, but many people dont consider all of the negative consequences of it. Dr. Jill Grimes analyzes what students overlook and provides advice to consider before swiping right. 4 Standing strong Also happening at colleges? Deals between the Trump administration and several prominent universities. At this point, very few school leaders still openly criticize the current administration and those who do are fighting an increasingly lonely battle. 5 Is Andrew Lloyd Webber cool? The composer is American theaters favorite punching bag, with all of his shows attracting some degree of hostility and often confusing viewers. But new, radical, drastically modern revivals of his most famous shows are bringing his work into the 21st century. Watch this J.No: Jennifer Lopez was recently joined on stage by an unexpected guest. She casually dismissed the intruder a long-legged insect and thanked her fans. Top headlines Check this out Giulia Piermartiri and Edoardo Delille/Courtesy LArtiere Glimpse of the future: Edoardo Delille and Giulia Piermartiris photos of the Maldives are dystopian, but they also ring alarm bells. As scientists predict that the country could become uninhabitable by 2050 due to rising sea levels, these unsettling images offer a preview of what that future may hold if the climate crisis isnt promptly addressed. Quiz time Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images What city (pictured above) is the best in the world for 20-somethings, according to Time Out? A. Shanghai, China B. Tokyo, Japan C. Bangkok, Thailand D. Cape Town, South Africa Scroll down for the answer. Thanks for reading Well see you tomorrow. Quiz answer: C. Young residents of Bangkok scored the city highly for happiness, affordability and as a great place to meet new people on Time Outs annual survey. Check out all of CNNs newsletters. Todays edition of 5 Things PM was edited and produced by CNNs Kimberly Richardson and Chris Good. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com US President Donald Trump predicts that his meeting with Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has a 25% chance of failure. Source: CNN, as reported by European Pravda Details: Trump called the upcoming summit with Putin an attempt to lay the groundwork for a second meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reach an agreement to end the war. When asked by a journalist whether there was any scenario in which the meeting would be considered a failure, Trump replied: "Yeah, 25%." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This meeting sets up the second meeting. The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because thats going to be a meeting where they make a deal," Trump said. He suggested that during the second meeting there would be "give and take" on borders and territories. According to Trump, Friday's meeting is "like a chess game". "This meeting sets up the second meeting, but there is a 25% chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting," he reiterated. Trump also expressed his readiness to impose additional sanctions on Russia. "I would, yeah. If its not solved," he said, referring to the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also said that, in his opinion, the Kremlin leader is coming to the Alaska summit with the intention of "making a deal" to end the war in Ukraine. Background: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the day before that Trump would call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he's giving his Friday meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin a 25% chance of failure. "There is a 25% chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting," Trump told Fox News Radio. "In which case I will run the country, and we have made America great again already in six months." The US president reiterated that he views this first meeting in Alaska as primarily preparation for a second meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This meeting sets up the second meeting. The second meeting is going to be very, very important - cuz that's gonna be the meeting where they make a deal and I don't wanna use the word divvy things up but you know to a certain extend it's not a bad term, okay?" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is not invited to the summit in Alaska, has consistently opposed giving up Ukrainian territory that Russia has seized during the war launched by Moscow more than three years ago. When asked whether Russia would then face consequences such as sanctions, specifically if the tough Senate sanctions bill against Russia would be the focus, Trump responded briefly: "Oh, certainly." He then emphasized that the United States had not lost any soldiers in Ukraine, claiming that if he hadn't intervened the Russian-Ukraine conflict "could have been World War III" and repeated his oft-stated claim that his predecessor Joe Biden "had no clue what was happening" in this war. The day before, Trump had threatened Putin with "very serious consequences" if he refused to end hostilities after the meeting. However, the US president expressed confidence that Putin was coming to Alaska because he wanted to make a deal. He said he would find out very quickly whether that was the case. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump will go into talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday hoping to achieve a halt to the fighting in Ukraine, but a comprehensive solution to the war will take longer, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. "To achieve a peace, I think we all recognize that there'll have to be some conversation about security guarantees. There'll have to be some conversation about ... territorial disputes and claims, and what they're fighting over," Rubio told reporters at the State Department on Thursday. "All these things will be part of a comprehensive thing. But I think the President's hope is to achieve some stoppage of fighting so that those conversations can happen." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rubio said that the longer wars go on, the harder they are to end. "And even as I speak ... there are changes happening in the battlefield which have an impact on what one side views as leverage or the other. So that's the reality of ongoing fighting, which is why a ceasefire is so critical," he said. "But we'll see what's possible tomorrow. Let's see how the talks go. And we're hopeful. We want there to be a peace. We're going to do everything we can to achieve one, but ultimately it'll be up to Ukraine and Russia to agree to one." Rubio said preparations for the meeting were going "very fast," as it had been put together very quickly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said he believed Trump had spoken by phone to Putin four times and "felt it was important to now speak to him in person and look him in the eye and figure out what was possible and what isn't." "He sees an opportunity to talk about achieving peace. He's going to pursue it, and we'll know tomorrow at some point, as the President said, probably very early in that meeting, whether something is possible or not. We hope it is." (Reporting by David Brunnstrom; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Giles Elgood) WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump said on Thursday he would like to see journalists gain access to Gaza to see humanitarian efforts. Israel has not allowed foreign reporters to enter Gaza since the start of its war in October 2023, unless they are under Israeli military escort. "I'd like to see that happen. Sure," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "I would be very fine with journalists going. And it's a very dangerous position to be in, as you know, if you're a journalist, but I would like to see it." (Reporting by Nandita Bose and Steve Holland; Editing by Leslie Adler) "I would be very fine with journalists going. And it's a very dangerous position to be in, as you know, if you're a journalist, but I would like to see it," said Trump. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he would like to see journalists gain access to Gaza to see humanitarian efforts. Israel has not allowed foreign reporters to enter Gaza since the start of its war in October 2023, unless they are under Israeli military escort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'd like to see that happen. Sure," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. "I would be very fine with journalists going. And it's a very dangerous position to be in, as you know, if you're a journalist, but I would like to see it." Trucks carrying humanitarian aid line up near the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Rafah, Egypt, August 13, 2025. (credit: Stringer/Reuters) International journalists request access to Gaza Last month, journalists from Agence France-Presse (AFP), the Associated Press (AP), BBC World Service, and Reuters called on Israeli authorities to "allow journalists in and out of Gaza," in a joint statement. The statement from the international media outlets also stated that "It is essential that adequate food supplies reach the people there." The journalists are "desperately concerned" for their colleagues in Gaza, who they claim are "increasingly unable to feed themselves and their families." "These independent journalists have been the world's eyes and ears on the ground," they added. The world stage is not happy with Donald Trump. European leaders reportedly torched the U.S. president during a virtual call ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putins Friday trip to Alaska, two sources familiar with the call told Axios. Trump downplayed the historic contact between the two superpowers as a feel-out meeting, though the Europeans disagreed, claiming in the Wednesday call that Trump was leveraging his time with Putin to coordinate a ceasefire arrangement in Ukraine without that countrys leader, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, at the negotiating table. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The call lasted for more than an hour and featured several snipes at Trump from French President Emmanuel Macron, who took a very tough position on the meeting, according to a source on the call that spoke with Axios. Macron emphasized that a meeting is a very big thing to give to Putin. But Trump didnt like that, the source said. Zelenskiy offered his own blunt warning to Trump, underscoring to the U.S. leader that Putin cannot be trusted. Polish President Karol Nawrocki reminded Trump of the Battle of Warsaw, exactly 105 years ago, when Poland fought together with Ukrainians against the Bolsheviks in Russia, reported Axios. Putins visit will be the first time that the Russian leader has stepped foot on U.S. soil in more than a decadebut what sort of new ground Trump will be able to gain is not clear. Putin has remained adamant that any peace deal would require international legal recognition of Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea, an internationally recognized portion of Ukraine, along with four regions it has claimed in the three years since it first invaded Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the call with Trump, Zelenskiy appeared alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, telling reporters in Berlin that the world needed to put more pressure on Russia. Zelenskiy said that he believed Russia was bluffing about the regional economic impact of more international sanctions. At the same press conference, Merz claimed that Trump had largely agreed that Russia could not be granted legal recognition of the territories it had claimed during the war. When pressed by reporters during a press conference later Wednesday as to whether he believed that he could use the meeting to convince Putin to stop targeting civilians in Ukraine, Trump responded in the negative. I guess the answer to that is no, he said, because Ive had this conversation [with Putin]. U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing to offer Russian President Vladimir Putin access to rare earth minerals and other economic incentives in an effort to end the war in Ukraine, The Telegraph reported on Aug. 13. Trump is scheduled to meet with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Aug. 15, where discussions are expected to focus on ending the war in Ukraine. According to The Telegraph, Trump plans to present a package of economic proposals aimed at incentivizing the Kremlin to agree to a ceasefire. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other senior administration officials are reportedly working closely with Trump to finalize the proposals ahead of the summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal package reportedly involves granting Russia access to Alaska's natural resources and lifting certain U.S. sanctions on Russia's aviation sector, which has struggled under the weight of international sanctions. Another key element of the proposals includes giving the Kremlin access to rare earth minerals in Ukrainian territories currently under Russian occupation. Ukraine is one of the few European countries to have high deposits of lithium, holding one-third of the continent's reserves and approximately 3% of global lithium reserves, according to the Kyiv School of Economics. In April, after months of negotiation, the U.S. and Ukraine signed a long-awaited minerals agreement that grants Washington access to Ukraine's significant mineral wealth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to Ukraine's minerals, Trump is reportedly considering allowing Russia to develop natural resources in the Bering Strait the narrow stretch of water separating Alaska and Russia. The region is estimated to hold 13% of the world's oil reserves. Russian access to the area would support Putin's ambitions in the Arctic, which accounted for 80% of Russia's gas output in 2022, according to The Telegraph. Echoing those interests, top Putin adviser Yury Ushakov commented ahead of the meeting: "Incidentally, the economic interests of our countries intersect in Alaska and the Arctic, and there are prospects for implementing large-scale, mutually beneficial projects." U.K. officials told The Telegraph that the proposed measures may be acceptable to European leaders many of whom had expressed concerns over Ukraine's exclusion from the summit as long as the proposals are not perceived as rewarding Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier on Aug. 13, Trump held a video call with President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders, during which he emphasized that securing a ceasefire is the top priority of his upcoming meeting with Putin. Although White House officials recently described the Alaska meeting as a "listening exercise" attempting to downplay the importance of the meeting the reported economic proposals suggest that the summit may be more consequential than the Trump administration has acknowledged. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Trump to push ceasefire in Alaska meeting with Putin, says Zelensky after call with US president Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. WASHINGTON President Donald Trump said he'd like Vladimir Putin to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "almost immediately" after his upcoming Alaskan summit with the Russian leader. Trump, speaking to reporters on Aug.13 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., also said there would be very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to end the Ukraine war when they meet on Aug. 15. He has previously threatened to hit Russia with sanctions and tariffs if Putin does not end the fighting. Trump said the summit with the Russian president would be "setting the table" for a possible Putin-Zelenskyy meeting that he might attend as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More: Trump pushes Ukraine to agree to 'land swap' with Russia ahead of Putin summit The president joined a call earlier on Aug. 13 with Zelenskyy and European leaders, two days before Trump's one-on-one summit with Putin in Alaska. Trump is trying to push Moscow into a peace deal that Kyiv and its allies fear will include the loss of significant territory seized by Russia in its three-year war on Ukraine. "I would rate it a 10," Trump told reporters of the virtual meeting. "Very friendly." Zelenskyy was in Berlin for the virtual conference hosted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that included the leaders of Finland, France, Great Britain, Italy, Poland, the European Union and NATO. Vice President JD Vance was also expected to join the portion that included Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "They are great people who want to see a deal done," Trump wrote earlier on Aug. 13 on Truth Social. Trump is meeting with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Aug. 15 without Zelenskyy or any leaders from European countries, who were expected to warn Trump against agreeing to Putin's demands. Trump this week raised the idea of a "land swap" in which Ukraine would give up territory to Russia in a potential peace deal and said he was "a little bothered" by Zelenskyy arguing that doing so would violate his country's constitution. He pledged then that he would not cut a deal in Zelenskyy's absence. But after their virtual meeting with Trump, European leaders drove their opposition to such a scenario home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Germany's Merz said in a joint statement after a separate meeting with Zelenskyy and Vance that a peace agreement cannot be brokered without Ukraine. In an X post, Zelenskyy said formats for possible future talks and meetings were discussed during the call with Trump. He emphasized that conversations about Ukraine and Europe "must be conducted together with Ukraine and Europe" and pushed for strong security guarantees. "Pressure on Russia works. Peace has no alternative," Zelenskyy wrote. More: Russian troops advance in Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin peace summit President Donald Trump (C) and Vice President JD Vance meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office at the White House on February 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. The White House has sought to temper expectations about Trump's meeting with Putin, which comes after Trump has increasingly expressed frustration with the Russian leader's unwillingness to halt fighting in Ukraine. The White House said Putin requested the meeting, which is his first with a U.S. president since 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is a listening exercise for the president," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Aug. 12. "This is for the president to go and to get a more firm and better understanding of how we can hopefully bring this war to an end." This article has been updated with additional information. Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump warns Russia of 'severe consequences' Donald Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin one-on-one on Friday to discuss the war in Ukraine. The highly-anticipated summit, which Ukraine has been shut out of, will be attended only by the two leaders and their interpreters. What time is Trump meeting Putin? The talks are scheduled to start at 11.30am local time (8.30pm BST) and will be followed by a press conference. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This will be followed by negotiations between the delegations, which will continue over a working breakfast, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said. Putin and Mr Trump will then hold a press conference, during which they will summarise the results of the negotiations, Mr Ushakov added. Where in Alaska is the summit? The leaders will come face-to-face at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. Mr Trump has visited the military base a number of times since he first took office in 2017. With Alaskas closest point to Russia being just three miles across the Bering Strait, the location appears to be a win for both leaders. Only 55 miles separates Alaska, the USs most remote mainland state, from Russia across the Bering Strait - Johnny Johnson/The Image Bank RF Mike Dunleavy, Alaskas Republican governor, described the northwestern state as a bridge between nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said it is the most strategic location in the world, given its close proximity to Russia, and it stands ready to host this historic meeting. Alaska also used to be Russian territory. Tsar Alexander II sold Alaska to the US in 1867 for $7.2m (5.4m), and Russian nationalists have long dreamed of reclaiming it. Will Putin be arrested in Alaska? Putin is indicted by the International Criminal Court, accused of ordering the theft of thousands of children from Ukraine to be sold to childless couples in Russia. Holding the meeting in US territory means he can avoid the risk of arrest, as the country does not recognise the jurisdiction of the ICC. What can we expect from the talks? The US president previously said that within two minutes of meeting the Russian leader he would know exactly whether or not a deal can get done to end the conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Trump added that he would seek an immediate second meeting, this time involving Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, after the initial talks. 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, he said. Tempering expectations of a breakthrough, the White House insisted the summit was a listening exercise for Mr Trump. However, the US president is preparing to offer Putin access to rare earth minerals to incentivise him to end the war in Ukraine, The Telegraph revealed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US president will present money-making opportunities, including opening up Alaskas natural resources to Moscow and lifting some of the American sanctions on Russias aviation industry. 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. Donald Trumps pick to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics was a bystander outside the Capitol as the Jan. 6 insurrection unfolded, according to the White House. The president on Monday nominated Dr. E.J. Antoni to lead the BLS after firing the agencys commissioner earlier this month, accusing her of manipulating jobs data. In recent days, videos have emerged of the 37-year-old economist from the right-wing Heritage Foundation think tank among a mob of Trump supporters who swarmed the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antoni is not believed to be among those who entered the building, and the video does not show him crossing barricades or demonstrating. The footage places Antoni at the Capitol about an hour after rioters tore down police barricades, as other insurrectionists poured onto its grounds. E.J. Antoni was filmed as hundreds of Trump supporters descended on the Capitol building on January 6, 2021 (Parler) In U.S. Capitol Police surveillance video unearthed by NBC News, Antoni was spotted outside the Capitol building among a sea of supporters waving Stop the Steal and Trump 2020 flags. In the clip, Antoni is seen walking away from the crowd on the buildings west side as chants of USA ring out and tear gas plumes in the background. Far-right radio host Alex Jones can be heard speaking over a megaphone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other footage shows Antoni at the Capitols east side, walking away from the building, according to NBC News. The video was initially released by the GOP-led House Administration Subcommittee on Oversight and archived from the social media website Parler. Antoni was seen exiting the crowd on the west side of the Capitol building (Parler) A White House official told NBC News Wednesday that Antoni was in Washington, D.C. for in-person meetings with his then employer, which, according to his LinkedIn profile, was the conservative think tank, the Committee to Unleash Prosperity. These pictures show EJ Antoni, a bystander to the events of January 6th, observing and then leaving the Capitol area, White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers told the broadcaster in an email statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added it was wrong and defamatory to suggest EJ engaged in anything inappropriate or illegal. While Antoni has not been accused of any wrongdoing, more than 1,500 rioters were charged with crimes connected to the attack on the Capitol building. On his first day back in office on January 20, Trump granted clemency to almost all of the defendants. Donald Trump posted a photograph alongside E.J. Antoni on Monday after tapping him as BLS commissioner (Donald Trump/Truth Social) Trump announced his intentions to install Antoni as BLS commissioner after removing Erika McEntarfer, whom he accused of using phony numbers in the July jobs report that showed private companies adding just 73,000 positions, below projections. Under Antonis stewardship, Trump wrote on Truth Social Monday that the numbers released would be HONEST and ACCURATE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Antoni, who will face Senate confirmation, wrote on X last week that the bureau, part of the Labor Department, needed to revise its methods to rebuild the trust that has been lost over the last several years. However, his nomination has intensified fears among critics that Trump wants a partisan supporter at the helm of a bureau to manipulate data to support his policies. Antoni was a contributor to the groups Project 2025, a controversial blueprint document outlining many of the moves the Trump administration has taken in office. Former Trump adviser Steve Bannon pushed for Antonis nomination shortly after McEntarfer was fired. US President Donald Trump is planning to propose a series of economic incentives during his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on 15 August, including access to Alaska's natural resources and the partial lifting of sanctions on Russia's aircraft industry, in exchange for ending the war against Ukraine. Source: The Telegraph Details: The Telegraph reported that among the proposals Trump may present to Putin in Anchorage are granting Russia access to Alaska's natural resources, lifting some sanctions on Russia's aircraft industry and giving Putin access to rare earth minerals in Ukrainian territories currently under Russian occupation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is working on preparations for these economic concessions. He is exploring the possibility of creating new mining ventures in cooperation with Russia to speed up the development of Ukrainian deposits. It is believed that Ukraine holds 10% of the world's lithium reserves, used in battery production. Two of the largest lithium deposits are in areas controlled by Russia and Putin has laid claim to the valuable minerals extracted there. "There are a range of incentives, in which a potential mineral/rare earth deal could be one," a source familiar with the proposals told The Telegraph. Other incentives include lifting the ban on exporting spare parts and equipment needed to service Russian aircraft, a significant proportion of which are in a poor state of repair. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the West has restricted the supply of critical components, leading to the deterioration of much of the aircraft fleet. Sergei Chemezov, CEO of the Russian state-owned defence conglomerate Rostec, said up to 30% of Western-made aircraft in Russia could be taken out of service within five years. Quote: "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." Details: Trump is also considering giving Russia access to natural resources in the Bering Strait, where there are thought to be significant untapped reserves of oil and gas. Sources in the UK government told The Telegraph that such incentives might be acceptable to Europe if they did not appear to reward Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Quote: "Israel's occupation of the West Bank could be used as a model for ending the war. Russia would have military and economic control of occupied [parts of] Ukraine under its own governing body, similar to Israel's de facto rule of Palestinian territory. The idea was raised in discussions between Steve Witkoff, Mr Trump's special envoy and his Russian counterparts." : Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will meet on 15 August at the Joint Military Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage in Alaska. 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". Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! President Donald Trump is reportedly considering offering Moscow access to Ukraines natural minerals in the Russian-occupied territories, a move Ukrainians say would be illegal and damaging to Washingtons reputation. The news comes as Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15 to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, without inviting Kyiv. According to the Telegraph, Trumps team is putting together proposals to incentivize Putin to reach a peace deal that include exploiting Ukrainian minerals, sanctions relief, and access to resources in Alaska, rich in oil and gas. The suggestion that Trump could greenlight Russias exploitation of its resources in its mineral-dense regions has both baffled and alarmed industry experts in Ukraine. "It will mean that international law does not exist anymore and global international relations will transform not even to realpolitik, but to Squid Game (the Netflix hit where contestants play lethal games for a huge cash prize)," economist Volodymyr Landa told the Kyiv Independent. "It will have consequences not only for involved countries, but also for other countries that may start wars for resources in the near future." Another minerals deal? Washington could prepare another mineral deal with Moscow, like the one it signed with Ukraine in May, a source close to the matter told the Telegraph. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who coordinated the deal with Ukraine, is reportedly one of the figures behind the proposals. Moscow occupies some 40% of Ukraines metal resources, including two of Ukraines four lithium deposits. Russia is already plundering resources from the occupied territories of Ukraine, particularly iron ore, which it exports via the Kerch Bridge connecting occupied Crimea to Russia. Kyiv has previously expressed doubt the U.S. would join Russia in a scheme to exploit resources in Ukraines occupied territories. It would violate international law and require Washington to recognize the occupied territories as part of Russia, which no other country has done, Taras Kachka, Ukraines deputy prime minister for European and Euro-Atlantic integration, told the Kyiv Independent in an interview published in July. "This would not be favorable for Americas reputation," Gennadiy Chyzhykov, president of the Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told the Kyiv Independent. He believes that Trump could be repeating his minerals deal playbook, where he first proposed to Kyiv a widely criticized "colonial" style agreement before negotiating down to a more mutually beneficial joint investment fund. He could be gauging where Ukraine and the international community's middle ground is by starting off with an absurd proposition, said Chyzhykov. Military volunteers and foreign legionnaires, enlisted to fight in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, practice target shooting on a kaolin quarry in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine. Aug. 14, 2023. (Viktor Fridshon/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images) Arctic dreams Washington could more realistically offer up its Alaskan resources to Moscow. The proposal includes the 3-mile Bering Strait that separates Russia and the U.S., which is thought to hold vast quantities of undiscovered oil and gas reserves and would bolster Russias presence in the Arctic. "The Arctic is an area of common interest (between the U.S. and Russia). They could sign projects or review former development projects in the Arctic," George Popov, an investment analyst at Ukrainian firm BrightOne Capital, told the Kyiv Independent. Popov pointed to a previous deal between Americas energy giant ExxonMobil and Russias Rosneft in 2011 to drill for hydrocarbons in the Arctic. The plan was scratched in 2018 due to Western sanctions on Moscow. Following the Russia-U.S. summit in Saudi Arabia in February, Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russias Direct Investment Fund, said that the two sides had discussed cooperating on energy projects in the Arctic, although he did not provide details. Russia makes up 53% of the Arctic coastline, but it lacks the resources to develop the region, while Western sanctions have hindered its lucrative Arctic oil extraction. Trump has a keen eye on the region too, particularly as China develops its own Arctic strategy, proposing to purchase Greenland for Americas "national security." The Arctic's economic potential has set the stage for it to become a potential conflict area in the future, and Trump could be looking to normalize relations with Russia to curtail Beijing. "If Trump wants to share Alaska resources with Putin, that may be a better option for Ukraine than Ukrainian resources in the Russian-occupied territories," said Landa. "But it is still dangerous as Russia is rewarded for its aggression." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Russia unveils delegation for Putin-Trump Alaska meeting, expects no agreement signed Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. US President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday easing regulations for the private space industry, including eliminating some environmental reviews, in a move likely to please his erstwhile advisor Elon Musk. The executive order, which said it aimed to "substantially" increase the number of space launches in the United States, was described by an environmental group as "reckless." Since returning to the White House in January, Trump has talked up several space missions including sending humans to the Moon and Mars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Moon and Mars missions are planned to get a ride on the massive Starship rocket of Musk's private firm SpaceX. However, Starship has had a series of setbacks, with its latest routine test ending in a fiery explosion in June. SpaceX dominates the global launch market, with its various-sized rockets blasting off more than 130 times last year -- and that number looks set to rise after Trump's executive order. "It is the policy of the United States to enhance American greatness in space by enabling a competitive launch marketplace and substantially increasing commercial space launch cadence" by 2030, the order read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The change could well benefit Musk, who has long advocated for deregulation of the space industry. The world's richest man was previously a close advisor to Trump before the pair had a dramatic, public falling out in July. The executive order also called on Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy -- who was at the signing and is currently NASA's administrator -- "to eliminate or expedite the Department of Transportation's environmental reviews" for launches. SpaceX has been repeatedly criticized over the environmental impact at the sites where Starship, the largest and most powerful rocket in history, blasts off. The US-based nonprofit Center for Biological Diversity said Trump's new executive order "paves the way for the massive destruction of protected plants and animals." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This reckless order puts people and wildlife at risk from private companies launching giant rockets that often explode and wreak devastation on surrounding areas," the center's Jared Margolis said in a statement. Musk's dreams of colonizing Mars rely on the success of Starship, and SpaceX has been betting that its "fail fast, learn fast" ethos will eventually pay off. The Federal Aviation Administration approved an increase in annual Starship rocket launches from five to 25 in early May, stating that the increased frequency would not adversely affect the environment. cha/dl/ksb Sending in troops to fight crime and homelessness in Washington could cost taxpayers millions and critics say the plan may not solve the problem. President Donald Trump wants to deploy hundreds of National Guard members, take control of the citys police department and force unhoused residents to choose between shelter, fines or possible jail time. Don't miss Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advocates warn the move could backfire, forcing displaced residents into shelters, soup kitchens and hospitals that are already stretched thin. At an August press conference, Trump said he intends to take control of Washingtons Metropolitan Police Department and give unhoused residents a choice: move into a shelter or face fines and possible jail time. Outside Miriams Kitchen, WUSA9 met Jarrod Moore, who spent a year on the housing voucher waitlist. During that time, he found refuge on buses, in stairwells and wherever he could lay his hat until he was finally placed in transitional housing. It was worth the wait, Moore said. Even though I struggled. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Trump pledged his administration would help as much as we can, critics question whether the approach will address the root causes of homelessness or simply shift the burden onto already overtaxed social services. Short on shelter In 2024, an estimated 5,600 people experienced homelessness in Washington, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness. The city offers about 3,200 emergency shelter beds, plus roughly 1,000 additional beds in transitional housing, data from the D.C.-based Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness shows. Against that backdrop, a new city initiative is stirring unease among advocates and unhoused residents. Kirsten Quinsland, chief program officer at Miriams Kitchen, told WUSA the change is fueling uncertainty and stress for both outreach workers and the people they serve. Were seeing uncertainty and stress staff wondering how to help with the little information we have, and folks in encampments wondering, Am I going to be cleared out tonight? Can I go to sleep feeling safe? Where should I go? Quinsland said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For people like Moore, who finally secured housing after a long wait, the concern is personal. Moore lost his job and, with it, his stable housing, falling into the same cycle that thousands of others are still trapped in. No matter how you fall down, hard times is hard times," he said, adding that even from the relative security of his current situation, he still worries for those still left outside. 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 Is this really the solution? Critics argue the plan isnt just misguided its dehumanizing and more expensive than proven alternatives, such as investing in permanent housing, raising wages and tackling D.C.s high housing costs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb is among those pushing back. In a post on X, he called the actions unprecedented, unnecessary, and unlawful, noting the city hit a 30-year low in violent crime in 2024. Research also challenges the idea that unhoused residents pose a public safety threat. A 2022 report from the National Coalition for the Homeless documented nearly 2,000 violent attacks against homeless individuals since 2000, showing they are far more likely to be victims than perpetrators. Advocates say the answer lies in sustained outreach and connecting people to services and housing, not criminalizing them. These approaches, they argue, help stabilize lives and give people the footing they need to move forward. If you or someone you know needs shelter in D.C., call 202-399-7093. What to read next Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now. This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. President Trump Thursday said he has high hopes of making progress to a Ukraine peace deal at a Friday afternoon summit with Russias Vladimir Putin in Alaska, but admitted there is a 1 in 4 chance of a bad meeting. There is a 25% chance that this meeting will not be a successful meeting, in which case Ill return to run the country, he said in a radio interview. If its a bad meeting, Im not calling anybody. Im going home, Trump added. But if its a good meeting, Im going to call (Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy) and the European leaders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump said his main goals will be to convince Putin to agree to a ceasefire and to pave the way to a three-man summit with Zelenskyy, which he teased could take place very soon after the Anchorage sit-down and might even also take place in Alaska. Trumps remarks came after Putin praised his counterpart for energetic and sincere efforts to end the war in Ukraine. With both sides seeking to spin expectations ahead of the Anchorage sit-down, Putin gathered a group of top advisers to the Kremlin to hail the chances of a breakthrough on Ukraine and a host of other issues. The (Trump) administration is making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the fighting, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict, Putin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The summit is scheduled to kick off at 11:30 am Anchorage time, which is 3:30 pm in New York. The two leaders plan to hold a joint press conference after the meeting as well as a lunch with the two nations delegations. Its the first meeting between Putin and an American president since he launched his invasion of neighboring Ukraine in 2022, and the first time he and Trump have met since 2019. Even as he talked up the chances of progress, Putin has not even hinted at any retreat from his hard-line demands, such as gobbling up four Ukrainian provinces, including land it hasnt yet seized on the battlefield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He sought to dangle the possibility of progress on nuclear weapons and economic issues, which he may use an enticement to get Trump to make further concessions on Ukraine. The Kremlin strongman said he hoped the huge, and unfortunately hitherto untapped, potential of expanded economic ties between the U.S. and Russia would be on the agenda along with Ukraine. Putin wants to end Russias exile from the Western financial system following economic sanctions imposed by Washington, the European Union and others. Trump has not yet lifted these punishments but says he wants to end Russias economic pariah status. Trump said Wednesday that there will be severe consequences if Putin does not agree to end the war at the summit, but refused to elaborate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hes moved ahead with secondary sanctions against India for buying Russian oil but has put threatened measures against other Moscow trading partners on hold at least until after the Anchorage meeting. The decision to grant Putin the face-to-face meeting with Trump is controversial with administration critics and Western allies, who fear the wily Kremlin strongman will use his skills as a master manipulator to bamboozle Trump. Ukraine and European allies are nervous about being left completely out of the meeting, even though Trump has vowed he wont cave on key issues like surrendering land for peace and says he wants to broker a follow-up summit including Zelenskyy. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer embraced Zelenskyy in London on Thursday in a show of British support for the embattled ally and aides said they discussed security guarantees for Kyiv in any possible peace deal. _____ U.S. President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy over imposing new sanctions on Russia in his effort to end the war in Ukraine but is prepared to increase economic pressure on Moscow if necessary, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Aug. 14. The statement comes a day before Trump's scheduled meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where the two are expected to discuss a path forward to end Moscow's war. The summit will mark Putin's first visit to the U.S. in a decade. "What comes after that meeting is up to President Trump," Leavitt told Fox News. "He wants to sit down and look the Russian president in the eyes and see what progress can be made." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Certainly, there are sanctions and many other measures that the president could utilize if he has to. Not that he wants to diplomacy and negotiation have always been the way for this president." Trump has previously described the Alaska talks as a "feel-out" meeting. President Volodymyr Zelensky on Aug. 13 joined Trump and European leaders in a video call, during which Trump pledged to make a ceasefire one of his priorities in talks with Putin. The U.S. president has signaled that any peace deal would require both Kyiv and Moscow to "swap" land, a position that has drawn concern from Kyiv and European capitals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Ukrainian Presidential Office source earlier told the Kyiv Independent that Moscow's proposal would require Kyiv to withdraw from the Ukrainian-controlled parts of the partially occupied Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts in exchange for a Russian pullback from parts of Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts. Putin has also demanded that Ukraine withdraw from the Ukrainian-controlled parts of the partially occupied Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts and accept a ban on NATO membership as preconditions for peace. These demands were voiced during peace talks in Istanbul in May and again on July 23. Zelensky has rejected handing any new territory into Russian occupation, urging a ceasefire as the first step toward negotiations, a stance supported by Kyiv's European partners. French President Emmanuel Macron, who joined the Aug. 13 call alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, said the U.S. is prepared to offer Ukraine security guarantees once peace is established. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The European leaders have also reaffirmed their readiness to provide such guarantees, including plans to deploy a reassurance force after hostilities cease. Read also: Zelensky meets Starmer in UK day before Trump-Putin summit Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Donald Trump, Republicans in Congress, and the presidents allies across right-wing media have been trying everything to make public backlash to their botched handling of the Jeffrey Epstein investigation go away, amid reports that Trump himself appears in the governments files pertaining to the convicted sex offender. The administrations attempts to bury the story have been complicated by some of Epsteins victims, and their families, speaking out as the scandal has intensified. Trump hasnt engaged with them, but just because the president is publicly keeping his mouth shut about Epsteins victims and their family members doesnt mean he isnt annoyed by them. In recent weeks, according to two sources familiar with his private remarks, Trump has repeatedly critiqued the string of media appearances by Epstein accusers and their families, arguing that some of them are just trying to make him look bad, or implying that he did something wrong during his time as one of Epsteins friends and party companions. At times, Trump has said that some of these people speaking out are, in his words, clearly of a Democrat political affiliation, while wondering aloud if some of them are coordinating with prominent liberal attorneys or groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of this is true, a White House official said in response to a request for comment. Just another desperate attempt by the failing Rolling Stone. Survivors of Epsteins abuse have for weeks now been criticizing the Trump administrations handling of the case after the Justice Department announced in early July that it would not be releasing the so-called Epstein files. The outcry intensified following reports that Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell had been transferred to a significantly cushier prison facility in Texas after the Justice Department spoke with her in Florida. Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted in 2021 of child sex trafficking and other offenses related to her relationship with Epstein. The Wall Street Journal reported last month that the Justice Department informed the president that his name appeared in evidence related to Epsteins case, although it remains unclear in what capacity. Annie and Maria Farmer, two sisters who accused Epstein of assaulting them and testified against Maxwell during her trial, have gone public with their criticism of the administrations sidelining of victims. Earlier this month, Annie Farmer told CNN that this chaotic process thats been unfolding has a real cost for survivors. Farmer indicated that survivors had not been informed of the Justice Departments efforts to meet with Maxwell, or the decision to transfer her to a minimum-security prison. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A central part of trauma is a feeling of a lack of control, and that has certainly been triggered here these meetings. You know, even this prison transfer was something I expected we would learn about prior to learning about it in the news, and unfortunately, thats not how it has unfolded, she said. Farmer added that efforts by right-wing pundits and others to paint Maxwell as another Epstein victim was a ploy to make a potential commutation of Maxwells 20-year sentence more palatable to the public. Trump hasnt ruled out pardoning Maxwell, telling reporters that he is allowed to do it. It feels like that campaign is not working. People recognize that shes a predator, not a victim, Farmer added. Last month, Danielle Bensky, who accused Epstein of abusing her in 2004, told NBC News that the approach the president and his allies have taken feels like were being erased. All the brave women who came forward all the work that we did to tell the world what happened to us, its all being erased, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The family of Virginia Giuffre, a victim of Epstein who died by suicide earlier this year, released a statement in response to comments from Trump indicating that he believed Epstein had stolen Giuffre from the spa at Mar-a-Lago, where she had worked. If our sister could speak today, she would be most angered by the fact that the government is listening to a known perjurer, a woman who repeatedly lied under oath and will continue to do so as long as it benefits her position, the family said. We and the public are asking for answers; survivors deserve this. In a memo submitted to the U.S. District Court earlier this month, one victim (whose identity remains protected) wrote to a judge that while they are for complete and utter transparency in this case, we deserve transparency from our own government, the agencies that were supposed to be there to protect us victims and guess what, they utterly and completely failed us. On Monday, Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) a frequent critic of Trump announced that he and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) will be hosting a press conference Sept. 3 with survivors of Epsteins abuse and their attorneys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear if the families will ever receive an audience with Trump or other top officials. The presidents frustrations with these accusers and relatives comes as the Trump administration shambolically tries and fails to move the publics attention away from his relationship with the convicted sex offender, and his governments decision to shield its files on the case from the public. The president is desperate to talk about literally anything else, to the point that he is reviving unfounded theories about the investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 election, while telling his Justice Department to go after Barack Obama and his other political enemies. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Sign up for RollingStone's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. President Donald Trump is set to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Fridays Alaska summit, with the world watching for a possible breakthrough to end the Ukraine war. Trumps push for a ceasefire dominated closed-door meetings with European and Ukrainian leaders throughout the week, culminating in public praise from Putin as America works to reduce hostilities. The Trump administration is making quite an energetic and sincere effort, in my opinion, to stop hostilities, to stop the crisis and to reach an agreement that is of interest to all those involved in this conflict, Putin said, per ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has been open about his plans to take action if there is no agreement in place soon. There will be very severe consequences, added the President, per CNN. The Alaska summit begins late Friday morning at Elmendorf-Richardson Air Force Base, where Trump and Putin will first meet one-on-one, followed by a joint press conference. Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said these talks will include negotiations about Ukraine, along with discussions about the most pressing international and regional issues. An exchange of views is expected on the further development of bilateral cooperation, including in the trade and economic sphere. I note that this cooperation has hugeand unfortunately still untappedpotential, Ushakov added, according to Newsweek. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement European leaders also met with Trump on Wednesday and emphasized that any plan must prioritize a ceasefire and robust security guarantees for Ukraine before territorial concessions or other final issues. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said during a joint news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that there is a broad agreement about what Trump should discuss with Putin. 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 U.S. and the Europeans need to increase the pressure, Merz said, per NPR. Although there is potential for an agreement to come to fruition at some point during the Alaska Summit, Trump has kept expectations low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, Trump said there is no guarantee that he will be able to prevent Putin from targeting civilians, regardless of what the sides agree upon during the meeting. 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 streets. So, I guess the answer to that is no, because Ive had this conversation, Trump said, according to NPR. Aug. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said his goal is to save Ukrainian and Russian lives during Friday's peace summit that will be held at a military base in Anchorage, Alaska. The high-level meeting was announced last week, and it is hoped that it will lead to an end to the war in Ukraine. "We're going to see what happens with our meeting," Trump said when a reporter asked if the United States might offer Russia access to rare-earth minerals as an incentive to end the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The meeting "is going to be very important for Russia and very important for us only in that we are going to save a lot of lives," Trump said during a Thursday afternoon press conference at the White House. He said the United States is being paid in full for military equipment obtained by Ukraine through NATO. President Donald Trump said his goal is to save Ukrainian and Russian lives ahead of Friday's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin while addressing media at the White House on Thursday. Photo by Will Oliver/UPI "We're not spending any money anymore," the president said. "[President Joe] Biden gave them $350 billion, [and] we got nothing for it." He said a rare-earth minerals deal with Ukraine will help the United States recoup its costs for helping Ukraine in its defense against Russia, which invaded the nation in February 2022. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday told government officials and military leaders that he seeks to establish long-term conditions for peace during Friday's summit in Alaska. Photo by Russian Presidential Office "What I'm really doing this for is to save thousands of soldiers a week," Trump said. "Last week they lost 7,251 people, mostly Russian and Ukrainian soldiers." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Friday's summit won't be the most important meeting to end the Ukraine war, he added. Government officials and military leaders attend a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at his residence in Moscow on Thursday and learned that five would join Putin for Friday's peace summit. Photo by Russian Presidential Office A second meeting that would include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will be the most important, Trump said. Putin on Thursday announced his intentions for Friday's Alaska summit. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at number 10 Downing Street in London on Thursday to show support for Ukraine ahead of Friday's Alaskan summit between U.S. and Russian leaders. Photo courtesy of the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office The Trump administration "has been making what I consider to be fairly vigorous and sincere efforts to halt hostilities, resolve the crisis and reach agreements that serve the interests of all parties involved in this conflict," Putin said in an address to "colleagues." "The aim is to establish long-term conditions for peace not only between our countries but also in Europe and indeed globally," Putin added," especially if we proceed to subsequent stages involving agreements on strategic offensive arms control." Government officials and military leaders attended a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at his residence in Moscow on Thursday, during which he briefed them on preparations for the upcoming Russia-U.S. summit in Alaska. Photo by Russian Presidential Office The summit will be held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage and starts at 11:30 a.m. ADT, according to Putin aide Yury Ushakov. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Near the military base, "a memorial cemetery holds the remains of nine Soviet pilots, two military personnel and two civilians who perished between 1942 and 1945 while ferrying aircraft from the United States to the Soviet Union under the Lend-Lease program," Ushakov said. "Thus, the meeting will unfold near a site of profound historical importance -- one that underscores the wartime camaraderie between our nations," he said. The summit will start with a one-on-one meeting between Trump and Putin with interpreters present, followed by a delegation format that extends into a working lunch. Each delegation will have five members, in addition to Trump and Putin, and the two presidents will hold a joint press conference afterward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ahead of Friday's summit, Zelensky met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Prime Minister's Office at 10 Downing Street in London. The meeting was to show the United Kingdom's support of Ukraine after Zelensky was not invited to Friday's Alaska summit. In the early days of his second term, US President Donald Trump was full of praise for his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, who he meets Friday in Alaska for crunch talks on the Ukraine conflict. But as the months have passed without the peace deal Trump said would be done in 24 hours under his leadership, his tone on Putin has turned sour. Here a look back in quotes at the shifting mood: - 'I get along with him great' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ending the war in Ukraine was a priority for Trump in January when he returned to the Oval Office. "I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal," he told reporters on January 20, while also insisting, "I got along with him great." A day later on Truth Social he posted: "I'm going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE." Meanwhile from the Kremlin Putin was flattering, telling Russian state media on January 24 that Trump was "not only a smart person, but a pragmatic person". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He also said what he referred to as the "crisis in Ukraine" might have been averted had Donald Trump been US president at the time. "I cannot but agree with him that if he had been president -- if his victory hadn't been stolen in 2020 -- then maybe there would not have been the crisis in Ukraine that emerged in 2022." - 'Vladimir, STOP!' - Good vibes seemed to circulate between the two leaders the following month. Trump described their phone conversation on February 12 as "lengthy and highly productive". "President Putin even used my very strong Campaign motto of, 'COMMON SENSE.' We both believe very strongly in it," he posted on Truth Social. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But his tone changed sharply at the end of March. Trump told NBC he was "very angry, very pissed off" when Putin started getting into Ukraine leader Volodymyr Zelensky's credibility. Then in April, Trump called on Putin to stop strikes on Kyiv. "Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Lets get the Peace Deal DONE!" he posted on April 24. He continued in this spirit two days later. "It makes me think that maybe he doesn't want to stop the war, he's just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through 'Banking' or 'Secondary Sanctions?' Too many people are dying!!!" Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'He's gone absolutely CRAZY!' - By late May, exasperation was taking over. "I've always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!" he posted on May 25. "What Vladimir Putin doesn't realize is that if it weren't for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD," Trump posted a day later. "He's playing with fire!" But when Trump turned 79 on June 14, Putin did not forget to send his best wishes. "President Putin called this morning to very nicely wish me a Happy Birthday," Trump posted, adding that the call was to "more importantly, talk about Iran." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a brief thaw. "We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin if you want to know the truth. He's very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless," Trump said at the White House on July 8. "I thought he was somebody that meant what he said. And he'll talk so beautifully and then he'll bomb people at night," he told reporters a week later. By the end of July, Trump said he was "not so interested" in talking to Putin anymore. But days before Friday's summit in Alaska he said he expected to have a "constructive conversation" with his Russian counterpart. eab-maj/jj President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putins high stakes summit on Aug. 15 will take place at a sprawling U.S. military base in Anchorage, Alaska, a White House official confirmed to USA TODAY. The face-to-face meeting, billed as a listening exercise by the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, will be held at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, spread over 13,000 square acres, to discuss Russias three-year war on Ukraine. The goal of this meeting for the president is to walk away with a better understanding of how we can end this war, Leavitt told reporters during a news briefing on Aug. 12. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The meeting, which was announced last week, will be the first time in four years that a U.S. president has met Putin since the war began. Putin and former President Joe Biden met only once during his presidency in Geneva in June 2021. Military base located in Alaska's largest city Anchorage is Alaskas largest city and home to 300,000 people. Its capital city of Juneau, which is 570 miles from Anchorage, is currently under evacuation orders following glacial outburst flooding. Anchorages northern edge abuts Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, an installation that teems with airmen, soldiers -- plenty of moose and bears, too, befitting its location near Alaskas vast stretches of black spruce-fringed wilderness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cold, dark and snowy in the winter, the base gets near round-the-clock sun in the peak of summer. Its a prime midway rest stop for dignitaries, like presidents and cabinet secretaries, on the route from Washington to eastern Asia. The roughly eight-hour flight from the east coast to the southern coast of Alaska takes about eight hours, about the limit for air crews before mandated rest and a convenient, secure location to refuel. Views of mountains near Denali National Park from George Parks highway (Alaska Route 3), February 19, 2022. The Army established the base in 1940 in the runup to World War II. Since then, it has hosted soldiers and airmen along with smaller contingents from the Navy and Marine Corps. The joint base hosts about 30,000 service members, their family members and civilian employees. Its strategic location near Russia and close to Arctic resources eyed by the Chinese has made Elmendorf-Richardson and other Alaskan military installations increasingly valuable to the Pentagon. More personnel and money have been streaming into Alaska in recent years to bolster northern defenses. The base takes part in some of the militarys most intricate annual war games, featuring its most sophisticated weapons like the F-22 fighter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent years, Alaskas strategic, remote location has exposed its vulnerabilities. Suicide among soldiers spiked to alarming levels, and reporting by USA TODAY revealed a shortage of mental personnel to help them. The Army and Congress intervened, dispatching dozens of counselors and spending millions to improve living conditions for troops there. Chinese spies have also made several attempts to gain access to Alaskan bases, USA TODAY has reported. The bases contain some of the militarys top-end weaponry, radars to track potential attacks on the homeland and missiles to intercept them. Russian President Vladimir Putin hands President Trump a World Cup football after their summit on July 16, 2018, in Helsinki, Finland. The two leaders met one-on-one and discussed a range of issues including allegations of 2016 U.S election interference. Zelenskyy and European leaders hold a call with Trump Meanwhile, Trump held a virtual meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders on Aug. 13, two days before the summit with Putin. Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on Aug. 13 for a virtual conference hosted by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz that will include leaders of NATO members Finland, France, Great Britain, Italy, Poland and the European Union. Vice President JD Vance was also part of the meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier in the day, Zelenskyy said there should be a meeting of the three leaders as the location of the meeting was announced on Aug. 13. He also said he was not seeing any positive indications from Russia. "At present, there is no sign that the Russians are preparing to end the war, "Zelenskyy wrote on X. "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." Contributing: Reuters Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. You can follow her on X @SwapnaVenugopal This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump-Putin meet to be held at military base in Alaska The last time President Donald Trump shared a room with Vladimir Putin, their relationship perhaps the most scrutinized association of any two people in the entire world was enjoying an upswing. We have had a very, very good relationship. And we look forward to spending some pretty good time together, Trump said as their 2019 talks were getting underway in Japan. A lot of very positive things going to come out of the relationship. Six years later, not much positive has happened when it comes to Russia and the United States. Putin invaded Ukraine a year after Trump left office. And in the months since hes returned to the White House, Moscow has shown zero indication it will let up. Trump, once hopeful he might leverage his relationship with Putin into an end to the war, has grown disillusioned with his onetime friend, whom he now accuses of peddling bullshit over the telephone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That makes for an altogether darker backdrop to Fridays encounter between Trump and Putin in Alaska, their seventh face-to-face meeting and the first of Trumps new presidency. I believe now hes convinced that hes going to make a deal, Trump told Fox Radio on Thursday. I think hes going to. And were going to find out Im going to know very quickly. Flowers, children's toys and victims' portraits form a makeshift memorial at the site of a residential building destroyed by a Russian missile strike in Kyiv, pictured on August 5. - Roman Pilipey/AFP/Getty Images Like all of Trumps previous meetings with Putin, the sit-down at a US air base north of Anchorage comes with a degree of uncertainty about what will be said, which outcomes will be agreed to and how it will be spun afterward. Already, the White House has lowered expectations for what it describes as a listening exercise, even as Trump struck a more optimistic tone Thursday for progress at the summit. Moscow, meanwhile, insists a whole litany of topics meant to normalize US-Russia ties are up for discussion. At the center of it all will be two men with a decidedly tangled relationship long scrutinized, often secretive and never quite fully understood, even by some of Trumps closest allies, who scratch their heads every time he seems to parrot a Kremlin talking point. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the eight years since the leaders first sat down together on the sidelines of a Group of 20 summit in Germany, the ties between the men have zigged and zagged. Trump has heaped praise on Putin and adopted his views, but hes also abruptly canceled meetings in anger and told other leaders he thinks Putin has changed for the worse, advisers have said. Theres a realistic adjustment and lowering of expectations, said John Herbst, a former US ambassador to Ukraine and senior director of the Atlantic Councils Eurasia Center. Even Trump is pointing out, correctly, that maybe you cant trust Putin. If there has been one constant, it is the shadow of the 2016 election, in which US intelligence agencies found Russia sought to interfere on Trumps behalf. Those findings and the attempts from Congress and other officials to hold individuals accountable have colored Trumps view of Russia and Putin for years. He has voiced a certain kinship with the Russian leader for having to endure what Trump calls the Russia hoax. Just this summer, he threatened criminal prosecution against officials in the Obama administration including former President Barack Obama himself for issues related to the probe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a strain on the relationship, Trump said Wednesday of the investigations into Russian election interference. He added: It made it very dangerous for our country, because I was unable to really deal with Russia the way we should have been. Indeed, the election meddling was a shadow over each of Trumps previous meetings with Putin, including their inaugural session at the Hamburg G20 in 2017. Those talks lasted more than two hours, with only Trumps Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in the room. Afterward, Trump asked his interpreter for his notes to ensure the contents of the discussion werent revealed. And at a leaders dinner at the same summit, Trump sought out Putin for another hour-long talk this time, without any other American officials nearby and only Putins interpreter to translate. The two men would meet again several times after that, including at an Asian leaders summit in Da Nang, Vietnam. Trump said afterward that Putin again denied interfering in the US election and indicated he believed him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I really believe that when he tells me that, he means it, Trump said. When Putin was reelected the next year, Trump congratulated him on his victory despite a warning in all-capital letters from his national security team to DO NOT CONGRATULATE given questions about the fairness of the heavily managed contest. Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a signing ceremony with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Kremlin on May 8. - Pavel Bednyakov/AP Putins isolation on the world stage Putin, 72, has stood the test of time through five American presidencies. Long gone are the days of strolling through Moscow with Bill Clinton or visiting George W. Bush at his Texas ranch, where Bush glowingly said of Putin: I was able to get a sense of his soul. But the Russian leader has grown increasingly isolated over the last decade, punished by much of the world for his 2014 invasion of Ukraine and Crimea, the downing of a Polish plane, a deadly nerve agent attack in the United Kingdom and far more atrocities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An attempted reset complete with big red prop button with Obama failed, and Russia was ultimately expelled from the Group of Eight nations. Before being elected in 2016, Trump claimed to have been stablemates with Putin ahead of an appearance on 60 Minutes, though no evidence of the encounter ever materialized. After Trump came into office, Putin sought to restore his place on the world stage, through a marquee summit in Helsinki. That face-to-face meeting in 2018 only intensified a Russia cloud that would hang over Trump for the remainder of his first term and carry over into Putins lone summit with Joe Biden in 2021. Eight months later, Putin launched another war with Ukraine that still rages on. It was that Helsinki meeting, where Trump met with Putin behind closed doors without advisers, that fueled skepticism that is still alive today about his ability to stand up to the autocratic Russian leader. Trump faced an onslaught of bipartisan fury and global condemnation for accepting Putins word over considerable evidence from the US intelligence community that Russia interfered in an American election. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin arrive for a meeting at Finland's Presidential Palace in Helsinki, Finland, on July 16, 2018. - Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images/File We all think back to that really unsettling press conference in Helsinki where President Trump seemed to defer to Putin above the analysis of his own intelligence community, said Ret. Admiral James Stavridis, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander. I truly hope that doesnt happen. I dont think it will. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a rare time in Trumps presidency where he admitted a mistake, saying after returning to the White House that he realized there is some need for clarification about his Helsinki remarks. But seven years later, after repeatedly striking a conciliatory tone toward Putin and touting his deep relationship with the Russian leader, Trump sounds far more skeptical at the prospect of reaching a deal over Ukraine. This pivot only came in May, when Trump suggested he would travel to Turkey to preside over a meeting with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Nothings going to happen until Putin and I get together, ok? Trump said. When that meeting never materialized, and Russia intensified its bombing campaign on Ukraine, Trump began souring on Putin and lowering expectations for his long-standing promise to end the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not happy with Putin, Trump said last month in one of his sharpest sentiments yet toward the Russian leader. We get a lot of bullshit 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. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The Alaskan city of Anchorage, surrounded by dramatic peaks, will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. As all eyes will be on the southern-central city Friday afternoon as the two men are set to meet for a one-on-one meeting. A press conference could happen after, but it's unclear if both world leaders will be involved. The run-up to the summit sparked guesses about which world city would host the meeting, until Alaska was announced as host for the summit aimed at ending the war with Ukraine. Now, Alaska officials say its an opportunity for Anchorage to show the world just how important it is. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alaska is the crossroads of the world, Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance said this week. We are a strategic global location in so many ways. For our closeness to the Arctic, for our military presence, we have like 25,000 active duty personnel here in Alaska, for trade, for cargo, our cargo airport is one of the busiest in the world. As far as what this means for Alaska, what it means for Anchorage, its an opportunity to highlight our city, and to show the world how important we are, LaFrance added. Alaskas GOP Senator, Lisa Murkowski, said it was another opportunity for the Arctic to serve as a venue that brings together world leaders to forge meaningful agreements, though added she was deeply wary of Putin and his regime. The Alaskan city of Anchorage will provide the backdrop for the highly anticipated summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin who are set for a one-on-one meeting Friday afternoon. (Getty/iStock) Anchorage is the Last Frontier states biggest small town, and with a population of around 300,000, and it is Alaskas most populous city, according to the National Park Service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the summer, residents experience about 19 hours of sunlight a day as the sun barely dips below the horizon. In the winter, when thick snow caps the mountains surrounding the city, its only daylight for around 5 hours. Presidents have met with world leaders and notable figures at the base in Anchorage in recent history, partly due to its convenient location to refuel. Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. Reagan visited Alaska the following year to meet with Pope John Paul II in the city of Fairbanks. In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Japanese Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. The meeting was extremely brief, with the monarch touching down at 10 p.m. local time and departing for his final destination of Europe by 11.40 p.m., according to the Richard Nixon Foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former President Barack Obama also dropped by Anchorage in 2015 on a three-day trip to highlight the impacts of climate change in the region. Trump pictured at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in 2019. The president will touch down in Anchorage for the summit with Putin. (AP) Former President Ronald Reagan briefly stopped by the base in 1983 en route to Japan and Korea, where he praised the beauty of this wonderful land and shared his admiration of the state. (Reagan Library) In 1971, former President Richard Nixon met with Emperor Hirohito in Anchorage, hailing him the first reigning monarch in Japans long history to step on foreign soil. (Richard Nixon Foundation) Anchorages military base was crucial to countering the Soviet Union during the height 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. As preparations for the Anchorage summit continue, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stated that the meeting will be a one-on-one between Trump and Putin, with translators present, and that sensitive matters will be discussed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both leaders will take part in a news conference once the summit is concluded, he added, as well as wider talks with their delegations and a working breakfast. Trump warned that Russia would face very severe consequences if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire but hinted that a follow-up meeting could be swiftly arranged if Fridays summit proves a success. Following what was described as a lengthy phone call with President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that he will travel to Washington on Monday to meet with President Donald Trump. A White House official said Trump has invited European leaders to join the meeting on Monday afternoon. Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Alaska on Friday and while Putin mentioned an "agreement" in the post-meeting news conference and Trump said "great progress" was made, there was no mention of a ceasefire. Latest Developments Aug 17, 9:38 AM Trump says BIG PROGRESS' being made on Russia Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump was active on social media on Sunday morning, suggesting that there is "big progress" being made regarding Russia without providing details. His post follows his summit in Alaska on Friday with Russian President Vladimir Putin and precedes his upcoming meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders on Monday. "BIG PROGRESS ON RUSSIA. STAY TUNED!" Trump wrote on social media. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters - PHOTO: President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin leave the stage folowing a press conference following their meeting to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, in Anchorage, Alaska, August 15, 2025. He also expressed disagreement with the media's portrayal of potential land swaps. Trump claimed that the media would continue to criticize him, even if he achieved a diplomatic victory. "If I got Russia to give up Moscow as part of the Deal, the Fake News, and their PARTNER, the Radical Left Democrats, would say I made a terrible mistake and a very bad deal. Thats why they are the FAKE NEWS! Also, they should talk about the 6 WARS, etc., I JUST STOPPED!!!" he wrote. -ABC News Kelsey Walsh Aug 16, 8:50 PM Trump invites European leaders to White House meeting with Zelenskyy President Donald Trump invited European leaders to join his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday afternoon at the White House, a White House official said. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters - PHOTO: President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend a press conference following their meeting to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, in Anchorage, Alaska, August 15, 2025. The meeting comes after Trump's summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. -ABC News' Hannah Demissie Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug 16, 2:24 PM Putin tells Kremlin officials Alaska visit was 'useful' and 'timely' After meeting with President Donald Trump in Alaska, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Kremlin officials the summit was "timely and very useful," saying the two talked about "all aspects of our cooperation" along with a "possible resolution of the Ukrainian crisis on a fair basis." Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a joint press conference with President Donald Trump after participating in a US-Russia summit on Ukraine at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, August 15, 2025. Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, Putin said he and Trump talked about the "genesis and the causes of this crisis," saying "it is the elimination of these root causes that should be the basis for a settlement." "The conversation was very frank and informative, and I believe that it brings us closer to the necessary solutions," Putin said. Putin added that he respects "the position of the American administration, which sees the need to end the hostilities as soon as possible." -ABC News' Somayeh Malekian Aug 16, 2:03 PM White House dismisses NPR report saying staff left scheduling information about Alaska summit on hotel printer Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After National Public Radio released a report saying papers about the Alaska summit were found on a hotel printer ahead of the meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the White House released a statement, calling the report hilarious. Sergei Bobylev/Pool via AP - PHOTO: President Donald Trump meets with Russia's President Vladimir Putin, Aug. 15, 2025, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. Its hilarious that NPR is publishing a multi-page lunch menu and calling it a security breach. This type of self-proclaimed investigative journalism is why no one takes them seriously and they are no longer taxpayer-funded thanks to President Trump, White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement. NPR had reported the eight pages that appear to have been produced by U.S. staff were left behind accidentally and contained precise locations and meeting times of the summit and phone numbers of U.S. government employees. -ABC News Benjamin Siu and Hannah Demissie Aug 16, 12:42 PM Melania Trump wrote a letter to Putin, Trump hand delivered it First lady Melania Trump penned a personal letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin raising concerns over children abducted during the Russia-Ukraine war, two White House officials tell ABC News. President Donald Trump hand delivered the letter to Putin during their summit in Alaska, those officials said, but did not provide further details about the contents of the letter. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said thousands of children have been kidnapped by Russia. Samuel Corum/Getty Images, FILE - PHOTO: In this July 4,, 2025, file photo,, First lady Melania Trump listens as President Donald Trump delivers remarks during an Independence Day military family picnic on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. We cannot reach an agreement with them on the return of the children, Zelenskyy has stated. The first lady was not on this trip, but the president often talks about how his wife reminds him of the brutality of Russia's attacks on Ukraine. I go home, I tell the first lady, I spoke to Vladimir today, we had a wonderful conversation. And she says, Oh really, another city was just hit,' the president said weeks ago. -ABC News Rachel Scott Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug 16, 12:24 PM Putin demanded Ukraine withdraw from Donetsk in exchange for halting Russias offensive on 2 regions: Sources President Donald Trump informed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders that Russian President Vladimir Putin demanded at the Alaska summit that Ukraine withdraw from all of the Donetsk region in exchange for halting Russias offensive on two more southeastern regions, the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, two sources confirmed to ABC News. Andrew Caballero-reynolds/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Russian President Vladimir Putin gestures as he speaks during a joint press conference with US President Donald Trump after participating in a US-Russia summit on Ukraine at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, August 15, 2025. The sources familiar with the call said Putin had also agreed not to mount further attacks on Ukraine if it ceded the territory. The remaining unoccupied third of the Donetsk region contains a belt of key defensive cities. Giving them up without significant security guarantees would leave Ukraine extremely vulnerable to re-invasion by Russia. It is unclear for now what Trump is suggesting or what Putin would accept. On Friday, Trump suggested that the U.S. would be part of security guarantees, but has not indicated in what form. Trump also told Zelenskyy and European leaders that Putin raised the issue of protecting the Russian language and Russian Orthodox Church in Ukraine, according to a source briefed on the call. Those are long-standing demands from Putin, that suggest he has not changed his conditions for ending the war, which have included regime change. -ABC News Yulia Drozd and Patrick Reevell Aug 16, 11:50 AM Trump says trilateral meeting with Zelenskyy was discussed in Alaska, Kremlin deniesRussian President Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, who was present at the summit between Putin and President Donald Trump in Alaska, said a new meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was not discussed on Friday. "For now the issue wasn't raised," Ushakov said, according to Russian state media. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters - PHOTO: President Donald Trump shakes the hand of Russia's President Vladimir Putin during a joint press conference at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Aug. 15, 2025. When asked by Fox News' Sean Hannity whether a trilateral meeting did come up during the summit, Trump responded, "Yeah, it did." But earlier in the interview, Trump said the meeting was being set up while also saying right after, "I didn't ask about it." -ABC News' Patrick Reevell and Quinn Scanlan Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug 16, 6:14 AM European leaders issue joint statement on Trump-Putin summit In the first major statement from Ukraines European allies following the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, European leaders reiterated Friday that Kyiv "must have ironclad security guarantees" and "welcomed President Trump's efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine." "We are clear that Ukraine must have ironclad security guarantees to effectively defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity," the European leaders added. "It will be up to Ukraine to make decisions on its territory. International borders must not be changed by force." "As President Trump said there's no deal until there's a deal'. As envisioned by President Trump, the next step must now be further talks including President Zelenskyy, whom he will meet soon," the statement continued. "We are also ready to work with President Trump and President Zelenskyy towards a trilateral summit with European support." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement -ABC News' Guy Davies Aug 16, 5:25 AM Trump says the best way forward is "to go directly to a Peace Agreement" without a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine In a post on his social media platform, President Trump said that the best way to move forward and end the war between Ukraine and Russia is "to go directly to a Peace Agreement" without any form of a ceasefire. "It was determined by all that the best way to end the horrific war between Russia and Ukraine is to go directly to a Peace Agreement, which would end the war, and not a mere Ceasefire Agreement, which often times do not hold up," Trump wrote on Truth Social. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump touted that Friday's meeting in Alaska was successful and discussed his overnight phone call with President Zelenskyy and European allies. In his interview with Bret Baier yesterday, Trump said he wouldn't be happy if he walked away from the summit without some form of a ceasefire deal. "I'd like to see a ceasefire. I wouldn't be thrilled if I didn't get it. But everyone says you're not going to get the ceasefire, it'll take place on the second meeting. The second meeting is going to be very, but I'm not going to be happy with that. So, we'll see what happens. I'm going to be, I won't be happy if I walk away without some form of a ceasefire. Now, I say this, and I've said it from the beginning, this is really setting the table today," Trump said in Friday's interview. -ABC News' Hannah Demissie Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Aug 16, 4:27 AM Russian strikes on Ukraine overnight amid Putin-Trump summit Russia attacked Ukraine overnight with a ballistic missile and 85 drones, the Ukrainian Air Force said Saturday morning. Ukraines air defense systems repelled 61 of the drones, while missile and drone strikes were recorded at 12 locations across the country, according to the air force. Meanwhile, Russias air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 29 Ukrainian drones overnight, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. -ABC News' Yulia Drozd and Anna Sergeeva Click here to read the rest of the blog. Before President Donald Trump sits down with Russian President Vladimir Putin for a highly-anticipated summit in Alaska to discuss Moscow's war on Ukraine, experts emphasize the historical significance of this meeting location, specifically how the United States purchased the land from Russia back in 1867. "I think that what's missing in a lot of our political conversations in the world right now is history, and there's a history behind a lot of what's happening not only in this Russian-American relationship, but also this war," Lee Farrow, history professor and chair of the Department of History and World Cultures at Auburn University at Montgomery, told ABC News. Prior to Alaska becoming the 49th state of the U.S., the territory was under the control of Russia after Czar Peter the Great sent explorer Vitus Bering to the Alaskan coast in 1725, according to the U.S. Department of State's Office of the Historian. Afterward, "Russia had a keen interest in this region, which was rich in natural resources and lightly inhabited," the office of the historian's website said. Alejandro Pena/Alaska National Guard, FILES - PHOTO: Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets visit with members of the Alaska Air National Guard's 176th Wing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, May 28, 2025. As the United States was expanding westward in the 1800s and Russia was dealing with a lack of financial resources and military presence in Alaska due to its involvement in the Crimean War, Czar Alexander the Second decided "perhaps it might be a good idea to go ahead and get rid of this faraway colony," Farrow said. National Archives - PHOTO: The U.S. signed a treaty of purchase to buy Alaska on May 28, 1867 and the land was "formally transferred to the United States on Oct. 18, 1867," according to the U.S Department of State's Office of the Historian. "The stars kind of aligned at the right moment for this sale to occur," Farrow told ABC News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia officially offered to sell Alaska to the U.S. in 1859, "believing the United States would off-set the designs of Russia's greatest rival in the Pacific, Great Britain," the office of the historian said. But, Russia had to "beg" the U.S. to buy the colony, as the Americans were not initially interested in acquiring the land, Andrei Znamenski, history professor at the University of Memphis, told ABC News. MORE: NATO Secretary General Rutte says Trump-Putin summit is about 'testing Putin' "If we don't do anything, England, which is our enemy, she will come and take it over. So they decided to beg the United States [to] please buy this ice box. Eventually, a few Congress people actually had to be bribed," Znamenski said. After a delay due to the American Civil War, then-Secretary of State William Seward agreed to a renewed proposal to pay $7.2 million in exchange for the land on March 30, 1867, the office of the historian said. Harry S. Truman Library/National Archives - PHOTO: Oscar Chapman (left) and Ann Chapman hold up an Alaskan state flag after an Alaska Statehood party in 1959. The Senate approved the treaty of purchase on April 9, President Andrew Johnson signed it on May 28 and Alaska was "formally transferred to the United States on Oct. 18, 1867," the office of the historian said. AFP via Getty Images/Reuters - PHOTO: Russia's President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Aug. 12, 2025, and President Donald Trump in Washington, Aug. 11, 2025. After the treaty was signed, people on Capitol Hill argued "whether or not this was a good purchase" or if it "was a wise move at that particular time," with people later referring to the acquisition as "Seward's Folly," Farrow said. This perception changed once discoveries of gold, silver and other natural resources in Alaska were found, Farrow said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It was actually quite a very good deal for the United States," Farrow said. Only after the increase in discoveries of natural resources, the federal government began to take more interest in the land, with Alaska finally becoming a state on Jan. 3, 1959, Farrow said. MORE: Trump warns Russia of 'severe consequences' if Putin doesn't agree to stop war "Americans turned out to be incredibly lucky by purchasing the so-called ice box, but little did they know that they would be so happy. It turned out to be the greatest investment in terms of territory," Znamenski said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Regardless of what comes out of the meeting between Trump and Putin on Friday, Farrow told ABC News it's crucial for political leaders to remember the historical context when it comes to conflict and relationships between countries, since "it's not just about things that have happened in the last 10 years." "The Russian-American relationship has been so fraught with ups and downs, and there's always a way of looking at the past and focusing on the positive if we're going to try and mediate a war between Russia and Ukraine and actually have any hope of achieving something," Farrow said. As President Donald Trump prepares to travel to Alaska on Friday to address the future of Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the family of the Texas man serving the longest prison sentence of any American currently being detained in Russia is hopeful that another prisoner exchange between the two nations will be on the agenda. "We hope for better relations between the U.S. and Russia that will hopefully lead to the release of my brother," Margaret Aaron, one of David Barnes' two sisters, told ABC News anchor Gio Benitez in an interview Wednesday. Barnes, who grew up in Alabama, has been detained in Moscow since January 2022 and is currently serving a 21.5-year sentence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement MORE: Moscow court rejects American David Barnes appeal to get out of Russian prison "He's hanging in there," Aaron said. "He has been extremely strong through the last three and a half years. We're extremely proud of him and he has continued to be hopeful that something will happen." Unlike other Americans who have been held in Russia, Barnes is accused by Russian prosecutors of crimes in the United States, not Russia. Yet American law enforcement had no involvement in Barnes' prosecution in Moscow. Barnes was convicted by a Russian judge of abusing his two sons years earlier in Texas, but prosecutors in Montgomery County, Texas, told ABC News that law enforcement in the Lone Star State investigated the claims after they were reported by Barnes' Russian ex-wife and did not find evidence to support them. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I do know that everyone that heard and investigated the child sexual abuse allegations raised by Mrs. Barnes during the child custody proceedings did not find them to be credible," Montgomery County District Attorney's Office Trial Bureau Chief Kelly Blackburn previously told ABC News. ABC News - PHOTO: David Barnes appears in court in Russia on Feb. 13, 2024 "He's been suffering," Aaron said Wednesday. "He's innocent." Barnes' ex-wife, Svetlana Koptyaeva, has maintained that Barnes abused their sons while the children were growing up in the Texas suburbs years ago. Koptyaeva was charged with felony interference with child custody after allegedly taking the children from Texas to Russia in 2019 while a child custody dispute between her and Barnes was playing out. In 2020, a Texas family court designated Barnes as the primary guardian of his sons, but since Koptyaeva had taken them out of the country, Barnes' family says he decided to travel to Russia after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted to try to fight for similar custody or visitation rights in Moscow's court system. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barnes was arrested weeks after arriving in Russia and has been behind bars ever since. In April, a judge in Moscow denied Barnes' appeal of his conviction. MORE: American David Barnes enters 4th year of detention in Russia "We really, really need to have him designated as wrongfully detained," Aaron said. "Hopefully, to start that process, we need the help of Trump and Secretary [Marco] Rubio." The upcoming meeting between Trump and Putin on American soil comes four months after Russian officials released ballerina Ksenia Karelina to the U.S. through a prisoner exchange. Following Karelina's return to the U.S., she wrote a letter to Trump calling for the release of Barnes along with fellow Americans Robert Gilman and Andre Khachatoorian. Trump posted the letter on social media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "David Barnes, a Texas father of two sons, has been detained in Russia for far too long under charges already proven to be false, and it is past time for him to be released," U.S. Senator John Cornyn of Texas said in a statement at the time. "I urge President Trump and Secretary Rubio to prioritize efforts to bring David and all wrongfully-detained Americans throughout the world home." Other Americans who were previously held in Russia, like Paul Whelan, Trevor Reed and Brittney Griner, were transferred to penal colonies far from Moscow following their convictions -- but Barnes has been held in Russia's capital since he was taken into custody. "We have visited Mr. Barnes eight times since his arrest in January 2022," a U.S. State Department spokesperson told ABC News. "Our last visit to Mr. Barnes in detention was in May 2025." With all eyes on Anchorage ahead of this week's presidential summit, Barnes' family and friends in the U.S. will be paying close attention. "David's strength keeps us going," Aaron said. President Donald Trump revealed how he plans to approach his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday. Trump appeared for a radio interview on the "Brian Kilmeade Show" on Thursday, telling host Brian Kilmeade that his negotiations with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are "like chess." Trump estimated that his meeting in Alaska with Putin has a "25% chance of failing outright, but he said the hope is to push for a second meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This meeting sets up the second meeting," Trump told Kilmeade. He argued the second meeting would be "extremely important," and hinted that there would likely be negotiations over land swaps, a notion Zelenskyy has opposed. Zelenskyy, Ahead Of Trump-putin Meeting, Says There Is No Sign Russia Wants To End The War Read On The Fox News App Trump added that he believes he will know very quickly on Friday whether Putin intends to cooperate. "I believe now he's convinced that he's going to make a deal. He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to. And we're going to find out I'm going to know very quickly," Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What We Know About Trumps Meeting With Vladimir Putin In Alaska Trump went on to confirm that he will move forward with a suite of sanctions against Russia if Putin doesn't move forward with peace talks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocally opposed to talk of land swaps in negotiations with Russia. "There will be consequences," Trump told reporters Wednesday. "I dont have to say. There will be very severe consequences." Putin said Thursday that the U.S. was "making, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the hostilities, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict". Vladimir Putin To Return To Us For The First Time In A Decade Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Meanwhile, Zelenskyy downplayed hopes around the meeting on Wednesday, saying he sees "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. Reuters contributed to this report. Original article source: Trump reveals his game plan for meeting with Putin in Alaska: 'It's like chess' The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here. In November 2017, less than a year into his first term as president, Donald Trump publicly confronted a depressing reality. The traditions of Justice Department independence, he lamented in a radio interview, limited his ability to order an investigation of Hillary Clinton. It was the saddest thing, he said. Im not supposed to be doing the kind of things I would love to be doing, and I am very frustrated by it. This time around, Trump is not similarly encumbered. During the interregnum between his terms, MAGAs would-be philosophers built out the intellectual architecture for a presidential takeover of the Justice Department. Once Trump was back in office, the new administration set about filling DOJ leadership with loyalists and firing anyone who might object to abuses of power. The president, insistent that he was the victim of persecution by federal law enforcement, now seeks to turn the same apparatus against his enemies. In a representative Truth Social post last month, he shared an AI-generated video of Barack Obama being handcuffed by FBI agents and dragged out of the Oval Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trumps plan to leverage the DOJ for his campaign of revenge is not generating the results he might have hoped for, and not just because Obama remains a free man. The Justice Department has been slow to move forward with the investigations Trump demanded, hemmed in by the constraints of the legal system. Federal prosecutors targeting protesters and Democratic politicians have been dealt embarrassing defeats. American criminal law appears to be a less flexible tool in the hands of an authoritarian than Trump hopedat least for now. Attorney General Pam Bondi identified herself right away as an enthusiastic participant in the presidents personal-retribution project, launching a Weaponization Working Group in February that would examine past investigations of Trump. In recent weeks, the department appears to have moved toward a potential criminal investigation of officials involved in the 2016 probe of Russian election interference. Outside the Justice Department, the Office of Special Counsel has opened an investigation into Jack Smith, the former special counsel who, from 2022 to 2024, oversaw the two federal criminal prosecutions of Trump for potential violations of the Hatch Act, which restricts political activities by government employees. (Despite its name, the Office of Special Counsel is an independent agency with no relationship to Smiths old shop.) [Jonathan Chait: Trumps desperate move to quiet the Epstein scandal] This is one model of law enforcement as a weapon: specific targeting of preexisting villains. Around the country, meanwhile, federal prosecutors handpicked by Trump are experimenting with another: cracking down on dissent. Anti-ICE protesters, and even Democratic elected officials pushing for oversight of immigration enforcement, have faced criminal charges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Attorney General Robert Jackson famously warned in 1940 that the federal prosecutor has more control over life, liberty, and reputation than any other person in America. Still, prosecutorial authority has limits. A prosecutor has to find a crime to charge in the first place. If the offense is serious enough, the prosecutor must also be able to persuade a grand jury to issue an indictment. And if the defendant refuses to plead guilty, the prosecutor must persuade a petit jury to convict. These are far from insurmountable barriers; on the contrary, as criminal-justice reformers have long argued, the deck is stacked in favor of the prosecution. But the Trump administration keeps tripping over them anyway. After June protests against ICE raids in Los Angeles, the office of Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli filed more than 35 felony prosecutions, mostly for alleged assault of federal officers. But the Los Angeles Times and Bloomberg report that prosecutors were unable to persuade a grand jury to indict in several cases, as is required for felony charges. Court records show that in the weeks following the protests, the office moved to dismiss at least eight cases and downgraded another five to misdemeanors. (In one instance, the office charged a case as a felony, dropped it to a misdemeanor, and then recharged it as a felony a month and a half later, this time with an indictment in hand. Prosecutors have secured indictments in at least 12 cases, though two of those were later dismissed and a third indictment originally identified the defendant by the wrong name.) For context, in 2016, the last year for which data are available, the Bureau of Justice Statistics recorded only six refusals by grand juries out of roughly 180,000 cases pursued by federal prosecutors around the country. In more ordinary times, the old saying that a grand jury would indict a ham sandwich is not far off. On the opposite coast, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey has dealt with an embarrassment of its own. The offices interim leader, Alina Habba (until recently one of Trumps personal lawyers), filed trespassing charges against Newark Mayor Ras Baraka after he attempted to visit an ICE detention facility in his city. NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW, Habba trumpeted on X. Two weeks later, however, prosecutors moved to dismiss the charges. The magistrate judge handling the case chastened the office over its failure to thoughtfully consider the implications of your actions before wielding your immense power. (Baraka, sitting in the courtroom during the hearing, was overheard commenting afterward, Jesus, he tore these people a new asshole.) Bondi, meanwhile, is struggling to respond to the presidents demands to prosecute people involved in perpetrating what Trump calls the Russia hoax. The biggest challenge there is that there was no hoax; as both Special Counsel Robert Mueller and a bipartisan Senate intelligence report concluded, Russia really did try to help Trump win the 2016 election. For that matter, even if the Justice Department could somehow identify a crime, any number of legal issues could trip up a prosecutionincluding the fact that the conduct in question took place almost 10 years ago, well past the typical five-year window for charging an offense. According to The New York Times, the attorney general was caught unawares by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbards release of documents from 2016, and displeased about the political pressure from the right to launch an investigation in response. Despite an exciting headline from Fox NewsDOJ Launching Grand Jury Investigation Into Russiagate Conspiracy Allegationsall Bondi appears to have done is ask prosecutors to possibly present grand jurors with evidence. When a grand jury will actually convene, and indeed whether it ever will, is not clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bondis hedging on Russia hints at a broader awareness within the Justice Department that securing indictments, much less guilty verdicts, may be a problem. In May, Ed Martin, the crusading Trump supporter who is now leading the Justice Departments Weaponization Working Group, suggested that if the department were unable to charge bad actors with crimes, it would settle for naming and shaming them publicly. (This would be a departure from long-running department policy, which holds that no legitimate governmental interest is served by publicly voicing allegations against individuals without an accompanying criminal case.) Similarly, the investigation of Jack Smith might be a tacit admission of how little the administration has to go on here: The harshest penalty that the Office of Special Counsel could demand would be Smiths dismissal from government service, but he has already resigned. [Shane Harris: The Russia hoax, revisited] These challenges are similar to ones that Trump ran into during his first term. In fact, the FBIs 2016 election-interference investigation was already the subject of an investigation by Special Counsel John Durham, which began in 2019. Despite MAGA hype, Durhams probe was a flop: He brought three criminal cases concerning alleged wrongdoing around the Russia investigation, two of which ended in acquittals by juries. (A third led to a former FBI lawyer being sentenced to probation after pleading guilty to having altered an email.) And a shaky criminal probe into former Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe, whom Trump had seized on as a symbol of the nefarious deep state, quietly ground to a halt without charges being filed. Its difficult to say exactly what happened in the McCabe case because of strict rules around grand-jury secrecy, but one possibility is that jurors declined to issue an indictment. Still, the jury system will not always act as a defense against abuses. The same day that Barakas case was dismissed, Habba announced her intent to indict Democratic Representative LaMonica McIver for forcibly impeding and interfering with federal officers when attempting to shield Baraka from arrest. A grand jury returned the indictment. McIver has pleaded not guilty, but others might make different calculations: The overwhelming majority of criminal cases end with plea deals, because defendants decide against taking their chances in court. Meanwhile, the Justice Department recently sent out grand-jury subpoenas targeting New York Attorney General Letitia James over investigations by her office into Trump and the National Rifle Association. Fox News reports that another investigation may be under way into Trumps claims of supposed mortgage fraud by James and Democratic Senator Adam Schiff. Even if the harassment of James and Schiff goes nowhere, criminal investigations like these can be a grueling experience for the defendant, especially given the enormous cost of paying for a defense lawyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A jury is in essence a democratic institution, requiring citizens to exercise their judgment in a model of shared deliberation that is at odds with Trumps autocratic tendencies. In the colonial era, grand juries sometimes refused to indict protesters against the Crown; in the decades before the Civil War, both grand and petit juries nullified prosecutions under the Fugitive Slave Act. Yet although the American jury system can be a powerful tool in the fight for self-government, it has not always been a reliable one. Juries also helped build the foundations of the Jim Crow South by shielding white Southerners from legal accountability for racial terror. So far, the system has held up against Trumps encroachment. But the rapid erosion of democratic life in the United States over the past six months is a reminder of how quickly things can change. Article originally published at The Atlantic President Donald Trump has revoked Executive Order 14036, a major Biden-era directive that aimed to boost economic competition across the American economy. The reversal marks a significant shift in federal antitrust policy. Bidens original order, signed in 2021, had directed agencies to crack down on corporate consolidation and anti-competitive practices. Trumps revocation order contains standard legal language preserving existing agency authorities. It also specifies that implementation must comply with applicable law and available funding. However, no explanation for the revocation was cited. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Executive Order 14036 had established a White House Competition Council and included 72 specific initiatives. Those directives targeted industries from agriculture to technology, addressing issues like non-compete agreements and merger reviews. The American promise of a broad and sustained prosperity depends on an open and competitive economy Robust competition is critical to preserving Americas role as the worlds leading economy, Biden emphasized in his executive order. The order represented one of Bidens most comprehensive economic policy efforts. It sought to reverse decades of increasing market concentration across multiple sectors. Trumps action effectively dismantles this framework with a single signature. The revocation took effect immediately upon signing at the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) described the revocation as a step backward for consumers, entrepreneurs, workers, and family farmers that wouldlead to higher prices, fewer choices, and less innovation, AI Invest reported. In contrast, U.S. Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slaughter commended Trumps decision as part of his administrations America First Antitrust approach that removes barriers to innovation and opportunity and limits regulatory burdens on free competition. The Trump administration is imposing visa restrictions and revoking the visas of several Brazilian government officials, former Pan American Health Organization officials and their family members for their complicity with the Cuban regimes labor export scheme in the Mais Medicos program, the State Department said Wednesday The sanctions target officials involved in a program under which former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff hired over 10,000 doctors from Cuba between 2013 and 2018 to provide services in Brazils remote areas. The program received intense criticism after government records published in Brazil showed that Brazilian officials tapped the Pan American Health Organization, or PAHO, to facilitate payments to Cuba and avoid oversight by Brazils Congress. Several Cuban doctors who deserted the mission sued PAHO, claiming the organization benefited from a labor-trafficking scheme in which the Cuban government pocketed about 85 percent of the salary payments made by Brazil. The State Department did not say how many officials have been sanctioned but said it revoked the visas of Mozart Julio Tabosa Sales and Alberto Kleiman, two former Brazilian Ministry of Health officials who the agency identified as having played a role in planning and implementing the Mais Medicos program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazils Mais Medicos program was a diplomatic scam that exploited Cuban doctors, enriched the corrupt Cuban regime, and was covered up by both Brazilian and former PAHO officials, a senior State Department official told the Herald. Let there be no doubt, the United States will continue to hold accountable all individuals linked to this coercive labor export scheme. Tabosa worked in the implementation of the Mais Medicos program as secretary of Labor Management and Health Education at Brazils Ministry of Health.He is still a senior ministry official, working as the secretary of Specialized Health Care. During the years the Mais Medicos program was in place, Kleiman worked as a special advisor for the Ministry of Health and as the head of its international relations department. He later worked for PAHO as its director of external relations, partnerships and resource mobilization. He is currently holding a similar position at the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization, according to his LinkedIn profile. He is one of the defendants in the Cuban doctors lawsuit against PAHO. The State Department said that the sanctioned officials used PAHO as an intermediary with the Cuban dictatorship 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. It added that dozens of Cuban doctors who served in the program have reported being exploited by the Cuban regime as part of the program. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Herald sent comment requests via email to Kleiman and PAHO and reached Tabosas office in Brazil by phone with a comment request. None responded. In a separate announcement Wednesday, the State Department said it imposed visa restrictions against officials from Cuba, unidentified African nations and Grenada, in the Caribbean, for their complicity in the Cuban regimes medical mission scheme. The Cuban government has denied allegations of forced labor in its medical missions. On Wednesday, Cubas foreign minister reacted to news of the new sanctions and wrote in a post on X in Spanish: The U.S. Secretary of State threatens visa restrictions against governments that have legitimate medical cooperation agreements with Cuba. It demonstrates that imposition and aggression are the new foreign policy doctrine of the government. Cuba will continue providing services, he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since 2019, the US State Department has labeled Cubas medical missions as forced labor. The Trump administration and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have made the issue a policy priority, expanding visa sanctions against those involved in the Cuban medical missions, including foreign officials. In June, the Department imposed visa restrictions on unidentified Central American officials linked to the Cuban medical missions. The lawsuit against PAHO, which is still ongoing, alleges that the Cuban government pocketed about 85 percent of the money Brazil paid for the doctors salaries. Brazil made the payments to PAHO, which retained a 5 percent fee, around $129 million, and forwarded about $2.5 million to Cubas government, the lawsuit claims. The Cuban doctors who sued said part of the money received through PAHO was frozen in Cuban bank accounts until the doctors return from the official missions. The lawsuit also details how Cuban authorities, and sometimes Cuban government officials working for PAHO as consultants, controlled the doctors movements and seized their travel documents It is good news that the Department is beginning to enforce the law requiring visa sanctions for individuals who were involved in the Mais Medicos program, and it should vigorously enforce the law against every culpable party, Sam Dubbin, a lawyer representing the Cuban doctors. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is substantial documentation in the public record about Brazilian, PAHO, and Cuban officials who were responsible for the creation and enforcement of the Mais Medicos program, and the Department has undoubtedly uncovered even more evidence, he added. The Cuban doctors I represent, who were trafficked to Brazil through PAHOs direct engagement, believe there is no justification for omitting any individual or organization from these Congressionally mandated sanctions. The sanctions against the Brazilian officials will increase diplomatic tensions with Brazil. President Trump imposed a 50 percent tax on some Brazilian products over charges against former president Jair Bolsonaro, who has been accused of a coup plot. And the Treasury Department sanctioned the Brazilian Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes overseeing the case. This is a developing story. It will be updated. President Donald Trump said Thursday that Sen. Elizabeth Warren has "got to take a drug test" when asked to respond to her claims of him trying to cut Social Security. Trump made the remark during an event at the White House celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act, where the president said he would strengthen the program "for generations to come." "It's so vicious what they do. Elizabeth Warren said she was an Indian. We call her Pocahontas. She's a liar. She lied her whole career," Trump said. "Based on the fact that she was an Indian, she was able to get into certain colleges, get certain jobs, get into certain universities to work there. And she's a liar and a mean person. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She's a nutjob. I watched her the other night. She's all hopped up endorsing a communist in New York City, and she was all excited and jumping up and down," Trump said in reference to Warren supporting democratic socialist mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. "She's got to take a drug test. She really, though, she's got to take a drug test. There's no way somebody can act that way and be normal." Top Democrat Senator Reveals Socialist Mamdani Is What Her Party Should Look Like Sen. Elizabeth Warren and President Donald Trump Warren, a Democrat representing Massachusetts, wrote an op-ed for Fox News earlier this year in which she said that under the Trump administration, "Social Security is under attack like it has never been before. Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Billionaire Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said seniors wont complain if they miss a Social Security check. Elon Musk called Social Security the worlds biggest Ponzi scheme. Musk then sent his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to gut the agency by indiscriminately firing workers, closing down offices, and trying to cut phone services," Warren wrote. Warren: Social Security Is Under Attack. Gutting It Is A Broken Promise "We shouldnt be cutting Social Security services and threatening Americans benefits we should be making the program stronger. People are struggling with sky-high prices while their retirement savings are evaporating," Warren added. "We need a temporary increase in benefits right now to give people some relief. We should also protect the long-term security of the system by lifting the cap on the amount millionaires and billionaires pay into Social Security, which would also yield enough money to permanently expand benefits." Trump also said Thursday, "We've already kicked nearly 275,000 illegal aliens off of the Social Security system. New York City Democratic Party mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani is joined on the campaign trail by Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, on Aug. 4, 2025 in New York City. "These are people many of them have already left the country. And yet we were sending them checks all the time," Trump added. "And what that's doing is making the system strong. It's making it strong. Biden never kicked anybody off. Everybody joined." Original article source: Trump says Elizabeth Warren has 'got to take a drug test' US President Donald Trump on Thursday hinted that European leaders might be invited to a potential second meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he said should be attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "We're going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe we'll bring some of the European leaders along. Maybe not," Trump said at the White House. Trump is scheduled to meet Putin on Friday in a meeting the US president has been downplaying, saying that it is mainly to set the basis for a second summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The focus of Friday's meeting will be Russia's war against Ukraine, which has been going on since February 2022, when Russia launched a full-scale attack against its neighbour. During his election campaign, Trump claimed he would end the war quickly. He now stated that he believes Putin and Zelensky would make peace. Trump avoided answering whether he might offer Putin access to rare earth elements, which are critical for the electronics industry, as part of negotiations. When asked whether he would agree to a reduction of NATO troops in Europe to accommodate Russia, Trump said that such a proposal had not yet been presented to him. "I'll think about that for later," he said. President Donald Trump warned Wednesday during a press conference that he doesnt need congressional approval to extend the federal takeover of Washington, D.C., and claimed local crime is so bad that it could constitute a national emergency if he says so. Trump invoked D.C.s Home Rule Act to bring the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control Monday, but needs the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate to pass a joint resolution in order to extend its 30-day timeframe unless he takes further action. Related: Donald Trump Reveals What He Told Melania After Hunter Bidens Epstein Relationship Comments He floated as much during a press conference Wednesday at the Kennedy Center. Related: Hunter Biden's Response To Melania Trump's Apology Demand Rhymes With 'Duck Fat' Well, if its a national emergency, we can do it without Congress, said Trump. But we expect to be before Congress very quickly. And again, we think the Democrats will not do anything to stop crime, but we think the Republicans will do it almost unanimously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So were gonna need a crime bill that were going to be putting in, and its going to pertain, initially, to D.C., he continued, adding: Were going to use it as a very positive example, and were going to be asking for extensions on that long-term extensions. Trump claimed 30 days isnt enough, before noting that hes bypassed Congress before. Were gonna have this in good shape, and dont forget in the border, everyone said it would take years and youd have to go back to Congress, Trump said Wednesday. I never went to Congress for anything. I just said, Close the border, and they closed the border. Were going to do this very quickly, he added. But were going to want extensions. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, but I think the Republicans in Congress will approve this pretty much unanimously. Reporter: Your federalization of the police has a 30 day limit unless congress acts to extend it. Are you talking to congress about extending it or do you believe 30 days is sufficient? Trump: If it's a national emergency, we can do it without congress.. I don't want to call a pic.twitter.com/V9b7CYEG8N Acyn (@Acyn) August 13, 2025 Trump deployed 800 National Guard troops to combat supposedly skyrocketing crime in D.C., whose own police force recently stated violent crime has plummeted by 26% this year. Trumps announcement Monday received some sobering, data-driven pushback. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The numbers are worse than they ever heard, Trump said Wednesday. Dont let anyone tell you theyre not. And the whole statistical charts that they made, the whole thing is a rigged deal They said its the best in 20 years. No, its the worst in 20 years. Related: Trumps D.C. Police Takeover Is His Latest Made-Up Emergency Power Grab Monday marked the first time in history that a president has invoked the 1973 Home Rule Act to take over local law enforcement. While residents have already begun protesting, U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro recently warned starkly that this is just the beginning. This whole country is going to be so different and so great, Trump added Wednesday. Related... Read the original on HuffPost WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said he would see what he could do to help "save" detained Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai, even though Chinese President Xi Jinping would not be "thrilled." "I'm going to do everything I can to save him," Trump told Fox News Radio's "The Brian Kilmeade Show" in an interview. "We'll see what we can do ... we're going to do everything we can." Lai, 77, has pleaded not guilty to charges under Hong Kong's national security law of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces, as well as to a separate charge of conspiracy to publish seditious material. He has been held in solitary confinement for more than 1,500 days since December 2020. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Liu Pengyu, the spokesperson for China's embassy in Washington, said Lai had been "a key orchestrator and participant in anti-China, destabilizing activities in Hong Kong." "We strongly oppose external forces using judicial cases as a pretext to interfere in Chinas internal affairs or to smear and undermine Hong Kongs rule of law," he said. Trump has said he would raise Lai's case as part of negotiations with China over trade and tariffs. On Monday, the U.S. and China extended a tariff truce for another 90 days, staving off triple-digit duties on each other's goods. On Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said trade officials from the two sides will meet again within the next two or three months to discuss the future of the economic relationship. (Reporting by Steve Holland, Nandita Bose, Susan Heavey and David Brunnstrom; Editing by Daniel Wallis) U.S. President Donald Trump said on Aug. 14 that Russian President Vladimir Putin will come to their Aug. 15 summit in Alaska ready to make a deal to end the war in Ukraine. "I believe now he's convinced that he's going to make a deal. He's going to make a deal. I think he's going to," Trump told Fox Radio. "And we're going to find out, I'm going to know very quickly." The talks in Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, will be the first face-to-face meeting between the two leaders since Trump returned to office and Putin's first visit to the U.S. in a decade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The White House has billed the talks as part of Washington's effort to end the war, though Ukrainian and European officials have expressed concern over Kyiv's exclusion from the summit. Trump said his goal is to move toward a trilateral meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky, noting that "three different locations" were under consideration, including Alaska. Speaking later from the White House, Trump indicated that European leaders might also participate in upcoming peace talks. "We have a meeting with President Putin tomorrow. I think it's going to be a good meeting, but the more important meeting will be the second meeting that we will be having," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe we'll bring some of the European leaders along, maybe not." While early reporting suggested Zelensky might join the Aug. 15 talks, Trump later confirmed the Ukrainian president would not attend. Zelensky has previously voiced readiness for a three-side format, while Putin has said more groundwork is needed before such a meeting. Asked if he would offer economic incentives to Russia, Trump declined to give details. He has previously described the summit as a "feel-out" session to gauge Moscow's readiness for peace. On Aug. 13, Zelensky joined Trump and European leaders in a video call during which Trump pledged to prioritize a ceasefire in talks with Putin. The U.S. president has signaled that any peace agreement would involve "land swaps," a stance that has raised alarms in Kyiv. A map showing Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine as of 2025. (The Kyiv Independent) A Ukrainian Presidential Office source earlier told the Kyiv Independent that Russia's proposal would require Kyiv to withdraw from Ukrainian-controlled parts of partially occupied Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts in exchange for a Russian pullback from parts of Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has also demanded Ukraine's withdrawal from the Ukrainian-controlled parts of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts and a ban on NATO membership as preconditions for peace. The Ukrainian president has rejected handing any new territory into Russian occupation, urging a ceasefire as the first step toward negotiations, a stance supported by Kyiv's European allies. Russia illegally annexed Ukraine's Crimea in 2014, and in 2022, it further annexed sections of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts after conducting illegitimate referenda. Read also: Ukrainian soldiers on fighting to reclaim their homes from Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Vladimir Putin is lavishing praise on President Trump ahead of their high-stakes summit in Alaska on Friday, thanking his host for energetic and sincere efforts to stop the fighting in Ukraine over three years since the Russian leader attempted to conquer the country. Trump, at the White House, also expressed optimism ahead of the talks, telling reporters he believes Putin would like to see a deal after suffering more than a million Russian casualties on the battlefield. Yet Russian Foreign Ministry officials said Wednesday that Putins war aims remain unchanged. And an aggressive Russian advance along the front lines this week provided evidence to military analysts that Moscow has no plans to implement a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was a day of diplomatic maneuvering ahead of an extraordinary visit from a Russian president to the U.S. homeland, and the first audience Putin has received with a Western leader since the war began. Its going to be very interesting were going to find out where everybody stands, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday. If its a bad meeting, itll end very quickly. And if its a good meeting, we're going to end up getting peace in the very near future. Putins positioning ahead of the summit, and Trumps eagerness for a deal, continue to fuel worries across Europe and in Ukraine that the Alaska negotiations could result in a bilateral agreement designed by Moscow and endorsed by Washington that sidelines Kyiv. Read more: Is Putin laying a trap in Alaska, or is Trump? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In London, Britain's prime minister, Keir Starmer, hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday, offering support for Trump's effort while placing the onus on Putin to "prove he is serious about peace." "They agreed there had been a powerful sense of unity and a strong resolve to achieve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine," 10 Downing Street said in a statement. Trump said the Alaska summit, to be held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, is meant to set the table for direct talks between Putin and Zelensky that could include himself and European leaders. Journalists stand outside Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage on Thursday ahead of Friday's summit between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press) But addressing reporters, Trump suggested that denying Putin dominion over all of Ukraine and allowing him to hold on to the territories he has seized militarily would be concession enough from Moscow. The president had said in recent days that land "swapping" would be part of an ultimate peace settlement, a statement rejected by Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think President Putin would like to see a deal, Trump said. I think if I werent president, he would take over all of Ukraine. I am president, and hes not going to mess around with me, he added. Russian state media reported Thursday that Putin had gathered his advisors to inform them of how the negotiation process on the Ukrainian crisis is going. Trump, in my opinion, quite energetic and sincere efforts to stop the fighting, stop the crisis and reach agreements that are of interest to all parties involved in this conflict, Putin said. But U.S. efforts to get Russia to halt the fighting have proved futile for months, with Moscow pressing forward in an offensive that has secured incremental gains on the battlefield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: Putin commends Trump's 'sincere efforts' to end Ukraine war ahead of Alaska summit Putin thinks that he is winning this war militarily, said Frederick Kagan, director of the Critical Threats Project, which collaborates with the Institute for the Study of War to produce daily battlefield assessments on the conflict. Hes also confident that Western support for Ukraine, and particularly U.S. support, will break, and that when it does, Ukraine will collapse, and hell be able to take control of the whole thing." "Its been his theory of victory for a long time, Kagan said, "and its a huge part of the problem, because hes not going to make any concessions so long as hes confident that hes winning." Russian incursions along a strategic portion of the front line, near a crucial Ukrainian logistics hub, spooked Ukraine's supporters earlier this week. While serious, Kagan said that Russia does not hold the territory, and said that the conditions for offensive Russian operations had been set over the course of months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russians continue to have the initiative, and they continue to make gains," he added. "The first step in changing Putins calculation about the war is to urgently help the Ukrainians stop the gains. Zelensky, after meeting with Starmer in London, said that he and the British leader had "discussed expectations for the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects." "We also discussed in considerable detail the security guarantees that can make peace truly durable," Zelensky said, "if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killings and engage in genuine, substantive diplomacy." Trump and Putin plan on arriving of the U.S. airbase within moments of one another, and are expected to meet on the tarmac before retreating into a private meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Afterward, Trump and Putin will take questions from the press, the White House said. Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. President Donald Trump on Wednesday said Moscow will face severe consequences if Russian President Vladimir Putin continues his war in Ukraine past their face-to-face meeting this week, as Europe braces for the results of their talks. The two men are scheduled to sit down at Joint-Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, on Friday as Trump tries to broker an end to the three-year war. The Kremlin has also said the two men will hold a press conference. Speaking to reporters at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., Trump vowed to punish his Russian counterpart if his forces continue to fight Ukraine after the summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked to provide more specificity about what measures he plans to take, Trump declined to answer. I dont have to say, Trump said. There will be very severe consequences. Ahead of his meeting with Putin, Trump took part in a call with European leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, organized by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as Europe is anxious about the summit, hoping to avoid seeing Ukraine pressured into an unfavorable deal by the U.S. and Russian leaders. Trump described Wednesdays call as very good. I would rate it a 10, Trump said. Very friendly. NBC News reported that Trump assured European leaders he wouldnt discuss territorial divisions with Putin, adding that the purpose of the bilateral summit is to get the Russian leader to agree to a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has previously said there will be some land swapping between Russia and Ukraine. Zelenskyy told reporters he warned both Trump and his fellow leaders on the call that Putin is bluffing when claiming he intends to bring the conflict to a close. He is trying to apply pressure before the meeting in Alaska along all parts of the Ukrainian front, Zelenskyy said, according to a translation provided by Reuters. Russia is trying to show that it can occupy all of Ukraine. Still, Trump has defended his decision to host Putin in the United States, expressing frustration at the criticism he has received, including from his former national security adviser, John Bolton. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has already won. He is the leader of a rogue state, and hell get a picture on U.S. soil with the president of the United States, Bolton told The Atlantic. Related... Read the original on HuffPost President Donald Trump on Thursday railed against Democrats who have opposed his federal takeover in Washington, D.C. Trump announced on Monday that he would be taking control of the Metropolitan Police Department and deploying hundreds of National Guard soldiers to the nations capital in an effort to combat crime. National Guard troops have since been spotted in the area. While marking the 90th anniversary of Social Security, Trump addressed questions from reporters about his unprecedented decision as city lawmakers have stressed that data shows a decades-low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Half of the people here, maybe all of the people here, most of you live in D.C. You are petrified to go out," Trump said in the Oval Office. "And youre liberal. And if youre liberal, youre going to have to change. You Democrats, youre going have to change your ways," he continued. Trump also went on to say that he has received calls from many, many friends, including Democrats, who were thanking me so much for what I am doing in D.C. They feel so safe already. Since Trumps announcement earlier this week, a slew of Democratic lawmakers have criticized his move and suggestion that he could target other cities next, including New York City, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Oakland and Chicago. They have also pointed to his depiction of crime in D.C., which he described as complete and total lawlessness, standing at odds with federal data. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The nations capital experienced a sharp spike in crime in 2023 with the highest number of homicides being recorded since the late 1990s. There was additionally a near-double surge in the number of reported carjackings compared to the year prior. The upward trend, however, has plummeted since then. Publicly available data, updated by Washingtons police department, shows that the rate of total crime has dropped by 26% since last year, with decreases reported in robberies, homicides, sex abuse, burglary and other categories. In early January, federal officials reported that total violent crime in the district had reached its lowest level in 30 years in 2024. During his remarks to reporters, Trump claimed that D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser or whoever it was had fudged numbers to show less crime. The fact is, its worse than its ever been, Trump said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When asked whether his administration would release their own crime statistics, and whether people will be penalized for manipulating data like he claimed, Trump said that they are under investigation right now. They are giving us phony crime stats, just like they gave other stats in the financial world, Trump said, adding Washington, D.C, is at its worst point, and it will soon be at its best point. Despite the data, some residents do perceive an increase of crime in their neighborhoods. According to a Washington Post poll released last year, 65% of district residents believed that crime is an extremely serious or a very serious problem, which was an increase from 56% documented in 2023. D.C. Police Union Chair Gregg Pemberton told Fox News earlier this week that he completely agrees with Trump that the citys crime is out of control. Trump said on Wednesday that he would ask Congress for a long-term extension on federalizing the police a request that would require Democratic support to pass. A section of the citys Home Rule Act allows the president to take control of the department, but only up to 30 days without congressional approval. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. US President Donald Trump has told European leaders that he will not discuss Ukraine's territories and will insist on an unconditional ceasefire during his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on 15 August. Source: CNN, citing several European diplomats familiar with Trump's latest phone conversation with European leaders Quote from CNN: "Ceasefire: While Trump did not use the term unconditional he said that he believed that a ceasefire would be a show of goodwill from Russia, and he also said that the Ukrainian territory is not for him to negotiate which left the impression that he would not entertain any Russian proposal that they would get control of Ukrainian territory in exchange for a ceasefire." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Details: This was the main message from the Europeans, who stated that Ukraine must be included in talks regarding its territory. However, expectations for this meeting are low, a CNN source noted. According to their sources, Trump said he supports security guarantees for Ukraine that would involve US participation. A diplomat stated that the European officials had seen this as a particularly positive step. But a former Trump official cautioned that the US president often likes to keep allies on his side, yet anything could happen during the meeting. In addition, the diplomats said that the idea of introducing new sanctions against Russia had been discussed particularly secondary sanctions on China over crucial Russian oil if the meeting is not successful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump reportedly said that he is considering this, but did not make any commitments. However, according to a third European official, there was a sense that Trump could very soon impose new US sanctions if the meeting goes badly. Background: On 15 August, US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will hold a meeting at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage in Alaska. 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 exploratory 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". Later, The Telegraph reported that Trump was planning to propose a series of economic incentives during his meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on 15 August, particularly access to Alaska's natural resources and the partial lifting of sanctions on Russia's aircraft industry, in exchange for ending the war against Ukraine. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! As he deployed the National Guard and surged federal law enforcement agencies into the nations capital, President Donald Trump gave local police in Washington, D.C. permission to retaliate against a population under federal occupation. Trump, seizing on images of a beaten former Department of Government Efficiency staffer to justify his takeover, announced a crime emergency to put the Metropolitan Police Department under the administrations control. See, they fight back until you knock the hell out of them, because its the only language they understand, Trump said from the White House on August 11. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You spit and we hit, the president said. And theyre standing there and people are spitting in their face and theyre not allowed to do anything. But now they are allowed to do whatever the hell they want. Civil rights groups and legal experts fear the presidents remarks will embolden police officers to abandon constitutional guardrails and signal to Americans that those protections are meaningless. Trump said Metropolitan Police Department officers can do whatever the hell they want, alarming civil rights groups and DC residents bracing for a federal takeover (Getty) Its very scary that the president felt the license to say this, said Insha Rahman, vice president of advocacy and partnerships at the Vera Institute of Justice and the director of Vera Action. His remarks appear to endorse police running roughshod over constitutional rights and due process protections, she told The Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That language is extremely dangerous and shows a blatant disregard to the constitutional mandates that the president and every government entity is bound to, according to Kristin Henning, Georgetown Law professor and director of the Juvenile Justice Clinic and Initiative. No, police cannot do whatever the hell they want, Rahman added. But officers will feel emboldened to do things that we know are not only legally unsound and questionable but also unpopular like sweep away people and forcibly move people who are homeless, or tell people that they cant be in certain public places. Civil rights groups fear the administration is using the citys police force for a political power grab, while putting American troops on the ground as an occupying force thats not trained to perform basic law enforcement tasks like responding to 911 calls. Instead, D.C. has become political theater using blatantly phony justification for abuse of emergency powers, according to Monica Hopkins, executive director of the ACLU of the District of Columbia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is using the word emergency as a blank check for asserting federal control whenever it suits his agenda abusing emergency powers while militarizing our communities and endangering the very people he is sworn to protect, according to Mike Zamore, national director of policy and government affairs at the ACLU. The Independent has requested comment from the Metropolitan Police Department. Trump and DCs US Attorney Jeanine Pirro lashed out at teenagers in the nations capital while calling for heavy-handed police tactics in other Democratic-led cities with leadership and large minority populations (AFP/Getty) Trump has a vivid history of dogwhistle calls to action. Proud Boys were inspired by Trumps call to stand back and stand by. His call for a big protest that will be wild fueled a mob of his own supporters on January 6, 2021, when he encouraged a crowd to fight like hell before they stormed the Capitol. He also routinely threatens heavy-handed tactics in other Democratic-majority cities. At his White House press conference this week, he singled out Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York and Oakland all of which have Black mayors and large minority populations that have overwhelmingly voted against him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his remarks, Trump suggested teenagers were randomly attacking citizens and called for trying children as young as 14 as adults to lock them up for a long time. Jeanine Pirro the former Fox News personality recently confirmed as U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C. raged against young punks and demanded laws be changed to send teenagers to adult prisons. Those threats are counterproductive and ineffective, according to Henning, author of The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth, which draws on her experience representing young Black people in Washingtons juvenile courts. They dont use these words, but they are definitely blaming all Black kids in the city for these problems, Henning said. [Residents] are living with a state of fear that has been concocted, and thats all a part of a larger strategy. Its not even that deeply veiled, because its been done over and over again. The Independent has requested comment from the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Black and Latino youth are facing extraordinary psychological trauma in contact with police, with reported high rates of fear, anxiety, depression and hopelessness, according to Henning. When they go out on the streets and they encounter police, they see these federal agents, the anxiety is real, and the reaction is an adolescent response, she said. They might assert their First Amendment right to say, I don't want your presence. All of the things that teenagers do They can go from zero to 100 in an instant. A warning issued by DC police advises residents of an extended juvenile curfew zone after the Trump administration federalized local cops and deployed National Guard troops (Getty) Thousands of people flooded streets across the country throughout the summer of 2020 for daily demonstrations against police brutality and racism, including in the streets of Washington, D.C. Cant you just shoot them? Trump said at the time, according to his former Defense Secretary Mark Esper. Just shoot them in the legs or something? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also demanded law enforcement officers crack skulls and beat the f*** out of protesters, according to the book Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost by The Wall Street Journals Michael Bender. In his second administration, Trump is no longer moored by a handful of advisers who could curb his impulses. He was surrounded by the nations top law enforcement officials as he announced liberation day for D.C. this week. Trump invoked Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which grants the federal government authority to run the locally controlled police department. He needs congressional authority to extend that control beyond 30 days. On August 13, Trump said he wants long-term extensions of his federal occupation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, he said. Trump also called for Congress to pass a crime bill thats going to initially pertain to D.C. but serve as a very positive example for other cities. Homeland Security and US Park Police officers detain a person on the National Mall on August 12 (Getty) Despite the administrations claims that crime is out of control in D.C., the data shows the opposite: 2024 saw the lowest violent crime rates in the capital in more than 30 years, while reports of violent crime within the first seven months of 2025 have plunged 26 percent from last year. Those rates mirror national downward trends, according to FBI crime data released during Trumps administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has a long history of weaponizing fear about crime, according to Rahman, highlighting the presidents campaign rhetoric of American cities under siege and an invasion at the U.S.-Mexico border. People are supportive of police, but they want police to focus on responding to the most serious cases, being responsive, and investigating and solving serious crime, she said. What they do not want that we have had a long history of seeing in this country is police overreach. Henning fears that the citys Metropolitan Police Department is under undue pressure to boost arrests and put numbers on the board, she told The Independent. That pressure is going to be there, whether they admit it or not, she said. Donald Trump is turning history on its head with his Alaska summit with Vladimir Putin -- inviting Russia's leader to land that once belonged to Moscow, and meeting him at a military base that monitored the Soviet Union. The location is all the more striking as Putin is under indictment by the International Criminal Court, with Friday's summit marking the first time he has been allowed in a Western country since he invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The two leaders will meet at Elmendorf Air Force Base, which goes by the motto "Top Cover for North America." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has said that Putin suggested the summit and it is unclear to what extent the Republican president thought through the symbolism of the base or Alaska, still yearned for by some Russian nationalists. But George Beebe, the former director of Russia analysis at the CIA, said the Alaska setting showed an emphasis on what unites the two powers -- history and the Pacific Ocean -- rather than on rivalry or the conflict in Ukraine. "What he's doing here is he's saying, 'This is not the Cold War. We're not replaying the series of Cold War summits that took place in neutral states'," said Beebe, now director of grand strategy at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, which supports military restraint. "We're entering a new era, not just in the bilateral relationship between Russia and the United States, but also in the role that this relationship plays in the world," he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia had settled Alaska from the 18th century but, struggling to make its colony profitable and crippled by the Crimean War, Tsar Alexander II sold it to the United States in 1867. Then secretary of state William Seward was ridiculed for the purchase, dubbed "Seward's Folly" due to the perceived lack of value of Alaska, but the territory later proved to be strategically crucial. The United States rushed to build what became Elmendorf Air Base after imperial Japan seized some of the Aleutian islands following their 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Then with the Cold War, Elmendorf became a key center to observe Soviet movements across the Bering Strait. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As recently as nine months ago, an electronic surveillance plane from Elmendorf as well as other US planes scrambled to track Russian planes flying off Alaska's coast. - Mixed takes in Anchorage - With more than 800 buildings and more than 10,000 military personnel, Elmendorf is the largest military installation in Alaska -- and is also known as a refueling stop for the US president and secretary of state when they travel to Asia. In anticipation of Putin's arrival, some local residents have painted Ukrainian flags to place on their roofs, in the off chance that the Russian leader sees them on his aircraft's descent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin "is a criminal and he's coming here to a military base. There was a time when that would have been unthinkable," said teacher Lindsey Meyn, 40, as she used spray paint to color a homemade blue-and-yellow Ukrainian flag. She said the summit was part of Trump's strategy to "overwhelm with craziness" and distract from other issues. "It's terrifying a little bit. I was thinking, is Trump going to offer our state back to Russia? I don't think that's going to happen but that's the first thing that came to my mind," she said. Alaska's Russian heritage is still visible in isolated ways, including through a domed blue Russian Orthodox cathedral in Anchorage that was built in the 1960s. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Alaska has also become home to Ukrainians, both before and since Putin's invasion. Zori Opanasevych, who has helped resettle 1,300 Ukrainians in Alaska with the non-profit group New Chance Inc., said that people she talked to wanted to hold out hope for the summit. "If there is any way that President Trump can influence Putin to stop the killing, we'll believe in that. We have to believe in that," she said. sct/sst Days before winning his second presidential term, Donald Trump made a bold promise: if he returned to the White House, he would free a pugnacious, self-made billionaire from a Hong Kong prison. 100% Ill get him out. Hell be easy to get out, Trump declared in a podcast interview in October, radiating his trademark confidence. Nearly ten months later, that tycoon Jimmy Lai a pro-democracy firebrand and persistent thorn in Beijings side remains behind bars. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 77-year-old media mogul has spent more than 1,600 days in a maximum-security prison, much of it in solitary confinement, staring down the possibility of spending the rest of his life there. Lai, the outspoken founder of the now-shuttered Apple Daily a fiercely pro-democracy tabloid newspaper known for years of blistering broadsides against the Chinese Communist party until its forced closure has become a symbol of Beijings sweeping national security crackdown on the once-freewheeling financial hub. In his landmark trial, Lai stands accused of two counts of colluding with foreign forces a crime punishable by life in prison under the 2020 national security law imposed by Beijing and a separate sedition charge. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges. On Friday, a Hong Kong court is set to hear closing arguments from both defense and prosecutors after a days delay due to a major rainstorm. The hearing which is expected to last multiple days paves the way for a verdict that will decide Lais fate and test Trumps resolve to make good on his pledge while trying to clinch a trade deal with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Asked about Lai in a Fox News radio interview on Thursday, Trump appeared less certain about the result, but vowed to do everything he can. I didnt say 100% Ill save him. I said 100% Im going to be bringing it up, and Ive already brought it up, and Im going to do everything I can to save him. You can also understand, President Xi would not be exactly thrilled by doing it, Trump said. With all of that being said, his name (has) already entered the circle of things that were talking about, and well see what we can do. In Hong Kong, dozens of people lined up outside the courthouse on Friday ahead of the hearing amid a heavy police presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I am here to support Fei Lo Lai and let him know that hes not alone, said Pun Tak-bun, 81, calling Lai by his colloquial nickname meaning fat man. Apple Daily spoke to Hongkongers from the heart. Pun, carrying a yellow umbrella the symbolic color of the citys once robust pro-democracy movement was one of the supporters stopped by police in the past two days for an identity check, as officers ratcheted up security around the court complex. KC Chan, 66, said he showed up because he doesnt have high hopes that US President Trump will be able to get Lai out. If I dont come here this time, I am worried I wont be able to see him again, he said. People wait to enter the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts ahead of the closing statements for Hong Kong activist publisher Jimmy Lai's national security trial in Hong Kong on Thursday. - Chan Long Hei/AP Quid pro quo? In October, Trump responded 100% yes when asked by podcast host Hugh Hewitt whether he would speak to Xi to get Lai out prison if he won the election. Then, as president, Trump pledged to raise Lais case as part of US trade talks with China. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think talking about Jimmy Lai is a very good idea, he told Hewitt in a subsequent radio interview in May, just days before officials met in Geneva for the first round of talks. Well put it down, and well put it down as part of the negotiation. Two people who are close to Lai and have been campaigning for his release said they were told that US officials did bring up Lais case with their Chinese counterparts during the talks. We understand it was informally brought up at trade talks, but we dont know the context of it, said Lais top aide Mark Simon, referring to the negotiations in Geneva. Mark Clifford, president of the Washington-based Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation, said that before trade negotiators met again in London in June, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had it as a mission from Trump to ensure that Lais release was part of the talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im told that Bessent was tasked by the President and made it as part of his mission, said Clifford, who has been lobbying the US Congress for Lais release. Going into those talks, like immediately before those talks, Bessent told people that he was tasked by Trump with getting Jimmy out. The Treasury Department did not respond to a request for comment. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said in a statement to CNN: As President Trump said, Jimmy Lai should be released, and he wants to see that happen. Chinas Foreign Affairs Ministry and Commerce Ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, said he was not aware of the specific details when asked about whether Lais case was brought up in the trade talks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We strongly oppose external forces using judicial cases as a pretext to interfere in Chinas internal affairs or to smear and undermine Hong Kongs rule of law, Liu added. The Hong Kong government has also stood firm, urging any external forces without mentioning the US or Trump to immediately stop interfering in the citys internal affairs and judicial process. Any attempt by any country, organization, or individual to interfere with the judicial proceedings in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region by means of political power, thereby resulting in a defendant not being able to have a fair trial that one should receive, is a reprehensible act undermining the rule of law of Hong Kong and should be condemned, the citys Security Bureau said in a statement. Broad support in Washington Lais Friday court hearing comes just days after Trump extended a trade truce with China, giving both sides another 90 days to try to settle their trade and tech disputes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent weeks, Trump has eased his confrontational stance toward Beijing, and has spoken enthusiastically about visiting China at Xis invitation in the not too distant future if a deal is reached. As part of that push, he has rolled back certain export controls on China including reversing a ban on sales of Nvidias H20 chips. This week, he opened the door to sending China more advanced AI chips. Experts on US-China relations say it remains unclear whether Trump can deliver on his pledge to free Lai, a China-born British national, citing his transactional style and unpredictable policy shifts. Jimmy Lai is British, not American. Given the high profile of his case, I doubt that China will be willing to make a deal, said Yun Sun, director of the China program at the Stimson Center think tank in Washington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the trade talks are higher priority for Beijing. If Trump prioritizes Jimmy Lais release, Beijing will be able to negotiate although it all depends on the terms. Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a senior researcher at the Asia Centre think tank in Paris, said the uncertainty cuts both ways. How much pressure Trump will put on Xi to reach such a deal? Hard to say because the US administration has so many other priorities ahead of Jimmy Lai, he said. But the big question is whether Xi will accept such a quid pro quo? But Lais family and supporters remain hopeful. Were incredibly grateful that the president knows about my fathers case and has said that he will free him, said Sebastien Lai, Jimmy Lais son. The president has a tremendous track record in freeing prisoners around the world. So hearing this gives our family a lot of hope. Sebastien Lai, son of imprisoned Hong Kong media publisher Jimmy Lai, shows a picture of his father, during a preview of the Geneva Summit for Human Rights, at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland on February 17, 2025. - Salvatore Di Nolfi/Keystone/AP Past lobbying Lais fortunes, both personal and financial, are inextricably tied to the transformation of Hong Kong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Born in mainland China, he arrived in the British-ruled city in the bottom of a fishing boat at age 12 and dirt poor. He worked his way up the factory floor of a textile company to become a clothing tycoon a rags-to-riches story that echoed Hong Kongs own rise as a bustling commercial hub. But Chinas deadly 1989 crackdown on student protesters in Tiananmen Square politicized Lai and created something of a rarity in Hong Kong: a wealthy tycoon willing to openly criticize Beijings leaders. He moved out of the clothing business and chose a new role media baron. Lai founded Apple Daily in 1995, two years before Hong Kong was handed over to China. The outspoken publisher and his newspaper were at the forefront of the citys pro-democracy movement. A known vocal supporter of Trump and a devout Catholic, Lai traveled to Washington at the height of the 2019 protests, where he met with then Vice President Mike Pence and other US politicians to discuss the political situation in the city. The media mogul had long held a conviction that Trump and the US government should not shy away from supporting Hong Kongs civil liberties, which are key for the citys status as a conduit between China and international markets. Mr. President, youre the only one who can save us, Lai said in an interview with CNN in 2020 weeks before he was arrested. If you save us, you can stop Chinas aggressions. You can also save the world. Apple Daily owner Jimmy Lai speaks to CNN's Will Ripley in 2020. - CNN Prosecutors have argued that Lais actions amounted to lobbying for sanctions against Beijing and Hong Kong, an act prohibited under the national security law that was imposed following 2019s huge and sometimes violent pro-democracy protests and has transformed the city. Lais lawyers have countered that Lai had stopped those acts after the national security law came into effect on June 30, 2020. Taking the stand in his own defense in November, Lai said he had never spoken with Trump. I dont think he knew me. I think his aides knew me and briefed him about me, he said. In March, a bipartisan group of US House representatives introduced a bill to rename the street in front of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Washington as 1 Jimmy Lai Way. That same month, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio a former top China hawk in the Senate said in an interview that getting Lai out of jail was a priority. Weve raised it in every possible form and they know that its important to us, Rubio said, referring to Chinese officials. It remains a priority, and I think other countries around the world are making the same point as well to the Chinese. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer brought up the case of Lai in his first meeting with Xi, on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil in November 2024. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has also urged Lais release, calling his imprisonment cruel and unusual punishment and describing the case as a priority for the UK government remarks that drew a sharp rebuke from Beijing. Race against time So far all of Hong Kongs national security trials have been heard by a panel of specially selected judges, not juries a departure from the citys common law tradition. It could be weeks, or even months, before the judges render their verdict in Lais case. People campaigning for his release argue that given his old age and frail health, itll be more trouble for Beijing and Hong Kong authorities to keep him in prison. If he dies in prison, hes going to be trouble forever. Hell be a martyr. Hell be a symbol of resistance. Hell be a symbol of the cruelty of the Chinese Communist regime. And why would (Beijing) want that? said Clifford, who wrote a biography of Lai titled The Troublemaker. Jimmy Lai walks through the Stanley prison in Hong Kong on July 28, 2023. - Louise Delmotte/AP Simon, the top aide, said Lai has to be convicted first, before things can start moving forward to get him out of prison. While Washington has used diplomacy to secure the release of political prisoners in mainland China in the past, such interventions would be rare if not unprecedented in Hong Kong, which has its own separate legal system, experts say. Paul Harris, former chairman of Hong Kongs Bar Association, said the fact that Lai is in Hong Kong does not create an obstacle to his release. Under Hong Kongs mini-constitution, the Basic Law, the chief executive has the power and the duty in appropriate cases to pardon convicted prisoners or commute their sentences, he explained. So that power is there, and its a matter for the Chief Executives decision whether he wants to use it, and one can safely assume that if the President of China wants him to use it, he will use it, Harris said, referencing Xi. Jimmy Lai is in the second half of his 70s. He has certain health problems. It is totally consistent with the rule of law, as it has always operated, to release elderly prisoners with health problems. And so if the will is there, it can be done. But for supporters of Lai, the campaign to free him is a race against time. Sebastien Lai said hes deeply concerned about his fathers deteriorating health. Hes 77 this year, turning 78 at the end of the year, any type of incarceration is incredibly worrying for his health, never mind the solitary confinement and the diabetes, he said, calling his fathers prolonged solitary confinement a form of torture. And during the summer, Hong Kong goes up to 30, almost 40 degrees (Celsius), and hes in a little concrete cell, so he bakes in there. Were incredibly worried about him. The Hong Kong government said it strongly condemns what it calls misleading statements about the treatment of Jimmy Lai in custody. The remarks by Sebastien Lai regarding Lai Chee-yings solitary confinement are completely fact-twisting, reflecting a malicious intention to smear and attack the HKSAR Government, it said in a statement, adding Lai had requested his removal from the general prison population. Sebastien Lai said his concern for his father is also layered with pride. Im very proud that someone like my father has decided to do what he did campaigning for democracy for the last 30 years, staying in Hong Kong when it mattered, when the national security law was coming downand almost acting like a lightning rod. On a personal level, its devastating. But on a grander, historical level, its important to keep watch. CNNs Manveena Suri and Alejandra Jaramillo contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Unlike other major American cities, the federal governments footprint is everywhere in the nations capital. Congress handles the citys budget, and federal prosecutors command a bulk of its criminal justice system. Huge chunks of the city itself from public parks and sidewalks to the medians and green spaces between streets and inside traffic circles are under the federal governments control. The capital is dotted with office buildings, military installations and other properties under federal control, woven into a city with a complicated governing structure shared with Congress and federal law enforcement. This week, Donald Trump pushed for even more authority by declaring a crime emergency to federalize local police and deploy the National Guard and federal law enforcement to local landmarks and monuments as well as city streets and neighborhoods. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critics have argued that the move is low-hanging fruit for Trump in a city already under limited local control, serving as the presidents backyard political theater for national ambitions. Trump deployed the National Guard and federal law enforcement officers into the streets of Washington, DC, this week after declaring a crime emergency (AP) After Trump declared from the White House that were going to take our capital back, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser appeared to admit her hands were tied, thanks to the citys complicated dynamic with the federal government looming over it. For decades, D.C. has been used as a petri dish by Congress and presidential administrations to try out a variety of policies, according to at-large city councilmember Christina Henderson. Without statehood, we are limited in our ability to prevent or deter these repeated federal incursions, she said in a statement this week. What the president has imposed is an entirely new level of interference, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump and his allies routinely berate local officials and the people who live in the capital, despite the federal government largely holding the citys purse strings and the fact that residents lack full voting power in Congress. There are no D.C. senators, and the sole member of the House of Representatives representing the district cannot vote on legislation. The citys residents also overwhelmingly have voted against Trump.d Democrats Kamala Harris, Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton each received more than 90 percent of the vote against Trump in 2024, 2020 and 2016 elections, respectively. Earlier this year, Republicans in Congress approved legislation that blocks D.C. from spending nearly $1 billion of its own taxpayer funds towards a city budget that Congress had already approved. That deficit forced city officials to scramble for public investment in schools, infrastructure and police salaries. Public spaces fall under the purview of the National Park Service, so any improvements are up to the feds to handle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Critical vacancies on the D.C. courts are up to Congress to fill. And the citys U.S. Attorneys Office which handled the nations largest-ever criminal investigation in the wake of January 6, 2021, among other high-profile cases also is responsible for prosecuting other crimes in the district. How those crimes are prioritized is also up to that office, not the city leaders who take the blame for what Trump called a capital overrun with bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people. The federal government already controls a substantial chunk of the nations capital, from parks and roadways to government building complexes throughout the city (REUTERS) Trump has repeatedly threatened to put D.C. under total control, and critics have warned that his latest maneuvers imperil what autonomy it has left. The presidents agenda is driven by fear, misinformation and the misuse of federal authority, according to the Vera Institute of Justice. The administrations takeover could destabilize communities and undermine some of the evidence-based reforms D.C. has already been implementing to address crime and disorder, including federally approved programs for juvenile offenders, the group said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump is micromanaging D.C. to serve a political agenda of overreaching federal control, according to Monica Hopkins, executive director of the ACLU of the District of Columbia. Since it was enacted federally in 1973, the Home Rule Act has delegated the citys day-to-day operations to the municipal government run by the mayors office and city council. For Trump to exert full control over the district, Congress would have to repeal it. That would require 60 votes in the Senate, where Republicans carry a thin 53-47 majority. Democratic lawmakers have resisted such proposals, though many prominent Democrats have advocated for D.C. statehood that would expand residents representation in Congress and bring the district more fully into local control. The Home Rule Act, however, grants the president authority to take control over the local Metropolitan Police Department for 30 days. The president must then ask Congress for legal permission to extend that takeover once time runs out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On August 13, Trump said he wants long-term extensions of his federal occupation. I dont want to call a national emergency. If I have to, I will, he said. The president also called on Congress to pass a crime bill thats going to initially pertain to D.C. but serve as a very positive example for other cities. US President Donald Trump has said he is concerned that the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Alaska could disrupt talks with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Source: The Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with the content of a conversation between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as reported by European Pravda Details: European officials initially sought direct representation at the Alaska meeting, proposing that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte or another European leader attend, as well as Zelenskyy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Europeans withdrew this demand after calls between Merz and Trump, while publicly urging Zelenskyy to participate in any talks with Putin. Trump was concerned that Zelenskyy's presence could derail the negotiations at the very start, the source said. German officials who organised the conference stated that Trump had agreed that after his meeting with Putin, he would first brief Zelenskyy and then the European leaders who participated in the Wednesday meeting. "At this point Trump really owns this. He is the one negotiating with Putin, and he wants a deal," said Fiona Hill, who advised Trump on Russia during his first term and was present at his last meeting with the Russian leader in 2019. She added that Trump has repeatedly stated he wants to stop the killings on the battlefield and his actions are often motivated by that desire. "What Trump doesn't get is Putin doesn't have the same empathy toward loss of life like he does: Putin wants maximal objectives to secure his legacy as Vladimir the Great and is willing to engage in mass slaughter, while Trump wants to stop the war and win the Nobel Prize for peace," she noted. Background: Media reports indicate that Trump 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 said that Trump will call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader in Alaska. Trump also stated that if his meeting with Putin in Alaska is successful, he will arrange a second meeting that Zelenskyy will be invited to attend. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he would ask Congress for an extension of the federalization of D.C.'s police. The move is unlikely to pass as it would require Democratic support. Trump's comments come after National Guard troops began deploying in Washington, D.C., yesterday, with some joining city police last night. The full contingent of 800 troops is expected to be operational by the end of the week. The Morning Joe panel discusses. WASHINGTON (AP) Donald Trumps summit with Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday could be a decisive moment for both the war in Ukraine and the U.S. leaders anomalous relationship with his Russian counterpart. Donald Trump has long boasted that hes gotten along well with Putin and spoken admiringly of him, even praising him as pretty smart for invading Ukraine. But in recent months, hes expressed frustrations with Putin and threatened more sanctions on his country. At the same time, Trump has offered conflicting messages about his expectations for the summit. He has called it really a feel-out meeting to gauge Putins openness to a ceasefire but also warned of very severe consequences if Putin doesnt agree to end the war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For Putin, Fridays meeting is a chance to repair his relationship with Trump and unlace the Wests isolation of his country following its invasion of Ukraine 3 1/2 years ago. Hes been open about his desire to rebuild U.S.-Russia relations now that Trump is back in the White House. The White House has dismissed any suggestion that Trumps agreeing to sit down with Putin is a win for the Russian leader. But critics have suggested that the meeting gives Putin an opportunity to get in Trumps ear to the detriment of Ukraine, whose leader was excluded from the summit. I think this is a colossal mistake. You dont need to invite Putin onto U.S. soil to hear what we already know he wants," said Ian Kelly, a retired career foreign service officer who served as the U.S. ambassador to Georgia during the Obama and first Trump administrations. Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a longtime Russia hawk and close ally of Trump's, expressed optimism for the summit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have every confidence in the world that the President is going to go to meet Putin from a position of strength, that hes going to look out for Europe and Ukrainian needs to end this war honorably, Graham wrote on social media. A look back at the ups and downs of Trump and Putins relationship: Russia questions during the 2016 campaign Months before he was first elected president, Trump cast doubt on findings from U.S. intelligence agencies that Russian government hackers had stolen emails from Democrats, including his opponent Hillary Clinton, and released them in an effort to hurt her campaign and boost Trump's. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In one 2016 appearance, he shockingly called on Russian hackers to find emails that Clinton had reportedly deleted. Russia, if youre listening, Trump said, I hope youre able to find the 30,000 emails that are missing. Questions about his connections to Russia dogged much of his first term, touching off investigations by the Justice Department and Congress and leading to the appointment of special counsel Robert Mueller, who secured multiple convictions against Trump aides and allies but did not establish proof of a criminal conspiracy between Moscow and the Trump campaign. These days, Trump describes the Russia investigation as an affinity he and Putin shared. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin went through a hell of a lot with me, Trump said earlier this year. He went through a phony witch hunt where they used him and Russia. Russia, Russia, Russia, ever hear of that deal? Putin in 2019 mocked the investigation and its ultimate findings, saying, "A mountain gave birth to a mouse. He just said its not Russia' Trump met with Putin six times during his first term, including a 2018 summit in Helsinki, when Trump stunned the world by appearing to side with an American adversary on the question of whether Russia meddled in the 2016 election. 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 its not Russia. I will say this: I dont see any reason why it would be." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Facing intense blowback, Trump tried to walk back the comment a full 24 hours later. But he raised doubt on that reversal by saying other countries could have also interfered. Putin referred to Helsinki summit as the beginning of the path back from Western efforts to isolate Russia. He also made clear that he had wanted Trump to win in 2016. Yes, I wanted him to win because he spoke of normalization of Russian-U.S. ties, Putin said. Isnt it natural to feel sympathy to a person who wanted to develop relations with our country?" Trump calls Putin pretty smart after invasion of Ukraine The two leaders kept up their friendly relationship after Trump left the White House under protest in 2021. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Putin invaded Ukraine in 2022, Trump described the Russian leader in positive terms. I mean, hes taking over a country for $2 worth of sanctions. Id say thats pretty smart, Trump said at his Mar-a-Lago resort. In a radio interview that week, he suggested that Putin was going into Ukraine to be a peacekeeper. Trump repeatedly said the invasion of Ukraine would never have happened if he had been in the White House a claim Putin endorsed while lending his support to Trump's false claims of election fraud. I couldnt disagree with him that if he had been president, if they hadnt stolen victory from him in 2020, the crisis that emerged in Ukraine in 2022 could have been avoided, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump also repeatedly boasted that he could have the fighting settled within 24 hours. Through much of his campaign, Trump criticized U.S. support for Ukraine and derided Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a salesman for persuading Washington to provide weapons and funding to his country. Revisiting the relationship Once he became president, Trump stopped claiming he'd solve the war in Ukraine in 24 hours. In March, he said he was "being a little bit sarcastic when he said that. Since the early days of Trumps second term, Putin has pushed for a summit while trying to pivot from the Ukrainian conflict by emphasizing the prospect of launching joint U.S.-Russian economic projects, among other issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wed better meet and have a calm conversation on all issues of interest to both the United States and Russia based on todays realities, Putin said in January. In February, things looked favorable for Putin when Trump had a blowup with Zelenskyy at the White House, berating him as disrespectful." In late March, Trump still spoke of trusting Putin when it came to hopes for a ceasefire, saying, I dont think hes going to go back on his word." But a month later, as Russian strikes escalated, Trump posted a public and personal plea on his social media account: Vladimir, STOP! He began voicing more frustration with the Russian leader, saying he was Just tapping me along. In May, he wrote on social media that Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Trump ordered the repositioning of two U.S. nuclear submarines based on the highly provocative statements of the countrys former president, Dmitry Medvedev. Trumps vocal protests about Putin have tempered somewhat since he announced their meeting, but so have his predictions for what he might accomplish. Speaking to reporters Monday, Trump described their upcoming summit not as the occasion in which hed finally get the conflict settled but instead as really a feel-out meeting, a little bit. I think itll be good, Trump said. But it might be bad. ___ Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Associated Press writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report. The MAGA agita over Donald Trumps about-face on the Jeffrey Epstein files has driven the president to make ceaseless phone calls to allies, saying he needs a big thing to divert attention from Epstein, author Michael Wolff said this week. (Watch the video below.) Trump thinks he may have found his escape at the summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday to end Russias invasion of Ukraine, added Wolff, who has written several books about the president. Let me go back about a week or so, or 10 days, when Trump started to say to everyone who would listen and everyone listens to Donald Trump to 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 said on the Daily Beasts new podcast, Inside Trumps Head. (11:51) Related: Trump Goes Off On His Own MAGA Base: 'I Dont Want Their Support Anymore!' Whats the big thing? Wolff asked rhetorically. And everyone understood that this was code for, I need a distraction from Epstein. Whats the thing that will move us beyond that? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Deploying troops to Washington, D.C., apparently hasnt worked in that regard, and the possibility of zeroing in on progressive mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani didnt gain traction either, Wolff said. Trumps next solution? Playing off the summit, which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy doubts will make progress, Trump will pull the U.S. out of involvement in the war, Wolff predicted. 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. (16:32) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But that wont work either, Wolff predicted. Co-host Joanna Coles also noted the prospect of Trump attempting to force Ukraine to surrender large chunks of land for a deal. Exactly, Wolff said. The Epstein drumbeat is real, Wolff said. It is unceasing and it is threatening, most of all, to Donald Trump. (18:57) In response to a Daily Beast request for comment, Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung called Wolff a lying sack of shit. Attorney General Pam Bondi once trumpeted that she had Epsteins client list on her desk, whetting anticipation from MAGA followers that the files would reveal Democrats alleged criminal involvement with the late sex offender. But then the Department of Justice essentially announced last month there was no there there, and the case was closed. That prompted some in MAGA circles to accuse Trump, who called the files a hoax, of a cover-up and perhaps of personal guilt in the Epstein scandal. Related... Read the original on HuffPost Turkey has been growing impatient with the lack of implementation of a March deal to integrate the SDF into the Syrian state apparatus. Turkey will provide weapons systems and logistical tools to Syria under a military cooperation accord signed on Wednesday, a Turkish Defense Ministry source said, adding that Ankara would also train the Syrian army in using such equipment if needed. Turkey, a NATO member, has been one of Syria's main foreign allies since the ousting of president Bashar al-Assad last year. It has vowed to help train and restructure Syria's armed forces, rebuild the country and its state institutions, and support efforts to protect Syrian territorial integrity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a first step towards a comprehensive military cooperation accord that they have been negotiating for months, Turkey and Syria inked a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday after extensive meetings between their foreign and defense ministers, and intelligence chiefs. "The memorandum aims to coordinate, plan military training and cooperation, provide consultancy, information and experience sharing, ensure the procurement of military equipment, weapon systems, logistical materials and related services," the Turkish Defense Ministry source told reporters on Thursday. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) and Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa (L) shake hands as they hold a joint press conference after their meeting at Presidential Complex in Ankara, Turkiye on February 4, 2025. (credit: Mehmet Ali Ozcan/Anadolu via Getty Images) Turkey grows impatient over SDF integration into Syrian state Turkey has been growing impatient with what it calls the lack of implementation of a March deal between Damascus and the Kurdish-led, US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces for integrating the SDF into the Syrian state apparatus. Ankara has warned of military action against the SDF, which it considers a terrorist organization and against which it has carried out cross-border operations in the past. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has said that clashes between the SDF and Syrian government forces earlier this month and a conference held by the SDF calling for a review of Syria's constitutional declaration threatened the country's territorial integrity. The Turkish source said the SDF had not met any of the conditions of the March deal and reiterated Ankara's accusation that its actions were undermining Syria's political unity. "Our expectation is full compliance with the agreement that was signed and its urgent implementation in the field," the source added. ANKARA, Turkey (AP) Turkey will provide weapons, military equipment, and logistical support to Syria under a newly signed defense cooperation agreement, Turkish Defense Ministry officials said Thursday. The announcement came a day after Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler and Syrias Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra signed a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on military training and consultancy, reinforcing Turkeys support to Syrias interim government. Syria last month requested Turkeys support to strengthen its defense capabilities following sectarian violence in the country that also drew intervention by Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the agreement, Turkey would share its knowledge and experience and supply military equipment, weapons systems and logistical materials to help strengthen the countrys capabilities, Turkish Defense Ministry officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to be quoted by name. Syrias newly formed interim government has faced mounting challenges in restoring orde r and addressing the deep scars left by nearly 14 years of civil conflict, following the ouster of former President Bashar Assad by Islamist-led rebel forces in December. Most recently, hundreds were killed in clashes in the southern province of Sweida between government forces and local Bedouin tribesmen on one side and fighters from the Druze minority on the other. Turkey has been supportive of Syrias new administration, which is formed largely by rebels that Ankara backed during the civil war. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also Wednesday, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned Israel and Kurdish fighters to cease actions threatening Syrias stability, accusing them of undermining the countrys efforts to reestablish itself after more than a decade of civil war. Speaking during a joint news conference Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani in Ankara, Fidan accused the U.S.-allied and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, or SDF, of stalling the implementation of an agreement that was reached in March to merge with the Syrian army. Last week, representatives of Syrias various ethnic and religious groups held a conference in the northeastern Syrian city of Hassakeh which is under the SDFs control and called for the formation of a decentralized state and the drafting of a new constitution that guarantees religious, cultural and ethnic pluralism. The Syrian government criticized the meeting, and alleged that among the attendees were some with secessionist ambitions. It said that as a result it long longer intends to join planned talks with the SDF in Paris that had been agreed upon in late July. No date had yet been set for the Paris talks. By Huseyin Hayatsever ANKARA (Reuters) -A mayor from Turkey's main opposition party joined President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party on Thursday amid a crackdown on the opposition in which 15 mayors have been detained. Ozlem Cercioglu, mayor of the western city of Aydin since 2009 and previously a lawmaker for the Republican People's Party (CHP), quit the CHP, citing disagreements with the party administration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Despite repeatedly seeking solutions to the problems we face within the CHP, we have unfortunately been unable to reach a resolution. I am no longer on the same path as the CHP," she said in a post on X. Later in the day, she joined the AK Party in a ceremony attended by Erdogan along with three of her district mayors, who had also quit the CHP. Waves of investigations have been launched in recent months into opposition figures including Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Erdogan's main political rival, on charges of corruption and links to terrorism. The CHP denies the allegations and calls them an attempt to eliminate a democratic alternative, a charge the government rejects. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement CHP leader Ozgur Ozel told reporters, without providing evidence, that AKP officials had threatened Cercioglu with legal investigations into her municipality and arrest unless she joined the ruling party. AKP deputy chair Hayati Yazici called Ozel's allegation "completely untrue". "Anyone who violates the law or commits a crime would eventually be brought to justice," he told private broadcaster TV 100. Speaking at the ceremony, Cercioglu also rejected the claim, saying she was not afraid of any investigation. (Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever; Editing by Daren Butler and Kevin Liffey) BATH, N.Y. (WETM) An Elmira man and a Montour Falls woman were arrested in August after a collaborative investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies into suspected ongoing child abuse of someone under four years old, as stated in a release from New York State Police (NYSP). Justin J. Baker, 24, of Elmira, and Caitlin Marie Taft, 27, of Montour Falls, were arrested in early August, the release said. More specifically, Baker was arrested on Friday, Aug. 8, and Taft was arrested on Monday, Aug. 11, the release noted. Baker was arrested on Friday on the following charges, according to NYSP: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Enterprise corruption (class B Felony) Seven counts of assault in the second degree person 18 years or older causing injury to a person under seven years old (class D Felony) Five counts of endangering the welfare of a child (class A misdemeanor) Criminal solicitation in the fourth degree (class A misdemeanor) Below are the charges Taft is facing after being arrested on Monday, according to NYSP: Enterprise corruption (class B Felony) Eight counts of assault in the second degree person 18 years or older causing injury to a person under seven years old (class D Felony) Intimidating a victim or witness in the third degree instilling fear of injury (class E Felony) Five counts of endangering the welfare of a child (class A misdemeanor) Criminal solicitation in the fourth degree (class A misdemeanor) Criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation blocking nose/mouth (class A misdemeanor) Hornell man sentenced for violently shaking infant in 2022 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both Bakers and Tafts charges stem from an investigation into the suspected abuse of a child under four years old that was thought to have happened on William Street in the village of Bath, the release said. On July 31, Steuben County District Attorney Brooks Baker reached out to members from the NYSP Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of Bath to help with said investigation, the release noted. DA Brooks Baker met with investigators and gave them video evidence that he had received from the Chemung County District Attorneys Office, which was initially obtained by the Elmira Police Department (EPD) during a separate ongoing child abuse investigation in the city of Elmira, the release stated. Justin J. Baker had been previously charged by EPD in connection with incidents within their jurisdiction, the release said. While EPD was investigating, more videos that looked like they depicted criminal acts happening in the village of Bath were found, the release explained. As a result of the investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies, Baker and Taft were charged with the above-listed crimes, the release said. Both Baker and Taft were processed in court and sent to the Steuben County Jail without bail, the release stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NYSP said the investigation is still ongoing in coordination with EPD, the Chemung County DAs Office, and the Steuben County DAs Office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com. PRICEVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) Two Huntsville men were arrested on active felony warrants following a traffic stop that happened on Wednesday. Priceville Police officers working on criminal interdiction pulled a vehicle over on I-65 SB at the 334 off-ramp around 6 p.m. During the traffic stop officers learned that the driver, John David Myrick, 57, and the passenger, William Lee Hall, 28, both residents of Huntsville, had active felony warrants issued through the Madison County Sheriffs Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to authorities, Myrick was wanted for receiving stolen property, while Hall had a warrant related to a narcotics probation violation. Criminal interdiction extends beyond the mere interception of illegal drugs; it encompasses the disruption of various forms of criminal activity as well as the apprehension of wanted fugitives, as in this case, said Priceville Police Chief Jerry Holmes. Both men were arrested and transferred to the custody of the Madison 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 WHNT.com. The Brief Demontre Eason, 25, of Buffalo Grove, and Justin Neal-Guy, 31, of Evanston, were arrested Tuesday in connection with a March 22 home invasion and fatal shooting of a 32-year-old man on North Richmond Street in Chicago. Both men face multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder, home invasion with discharge of a firearm, and murder; Neal-Guy also faces a warrant issuance charge. Their next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday. CHICAGO - Two men have been charged in the March killing of a 32-year-old man on the Northwest Side, Chicago police said. What we know Demontre Eason, 25, of Buffalo Grove, and Justin Neal-Guy, 31, of Evanston, were arrested Tuesday in the 2600 block of Lake Cook Road in Riverwoods, Ill. and the 1100 block of Church Street in Evanston. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police said the two were involved in a home invasion and fatal shooting of a man inside his home March 22 in the 6400 block of North Richmond Street. The man was involved in a verbal altercation with Eason and Neal-Guy, police said. There was an exchange of gunfire in the apartment and the offenders fled the scene. The victim was shot in the chest. He died at the scene. Police recovered a weapon at the scene. RELATED: Chicago crime: Argument leads to deadly shooting in North Side apartment Eason is charged with one felony count of first-degree murder, one felony count of home invasion and discharge of a firearm, and one felony count of murder. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neal-Guy has been charged with one felony count of first-degree murder, one felony count of home invasion and discharge of a firearm, one felony count of murder and one count of issuance of warrant. What's next Their next court hearing is scheduled for Thursday. The Source Details for this story were provided by the Chicago Police Department. Two men have been found guilty in connection with a targeted home invasion in Farmington in 2022. A Hartford Superior Court jury on Friday convicted Joshua Jenkins, 33, of East Hartford, and Branden Holloway, 26, of Hartford, on multiple charges including home invasion, sexual assault, assault and robbery, according to the Connecticut Division of Criminal Justice. Jenkins and Holloway were each found guilty of one count of home invasion, one count of conspiracy to commit a home invasion and one count of conspiracy to commit a first-degree robbery, as well as two counts of third-degree sexual assault, two counts of second-degree assault with a weapon and two counts of first-degree robbery by threat of a firearm. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sept. 13, 2022, Farmington Police Department officers responded to the area of Waterville Road around 1:45 a.m. on the report of two men asking for help. Police located the two men who were bloodied and naked, according to court records. The two men told police that, around 11 p.m., they were in a hot tub with Maryelizabeth Bradford, an exotic dancer, when Jenkins and Holloway came through the tree line dressed in black holding firearms with lasers and ordered the two men out of the hot tub and into the residence of one of the men on Talcott Notch Road, court records show. According to court records, Jenkins and Holloway reportedly told the men, This is a robbery not a homicide. After stripping the men naked and tying up their hands and feet, Jenkins and Holloway reportedly ransacked the home for two hours in a search for jewelry, money and valuables, court records show. The men were reportedly pistol-whipped and assaulted in several, some degrading, ways in an attempt to find cash and jewelry in the home, according to court records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sometime before 1:30 a.m., the two men escaped by untying themselves and jumping from the second-floor balcony. They ran through the trees to a neighbors home and asked for help to call the police, court records show. The two men suffered minor injuries and declined to go to the hospital at the time. According to testimony from Bradford, the crime was reportedly a planned home invasion and robbery. Bradford, who was cooperating witness for the prosecution, was also previously charged in the case. According to police, she had arranged with one of the victims to meet up on the date of the home invasion. Cell phone and Instagram records reportedly showed phone calls between Jenkins and Holloway before and after the home invasion, according to court records. Records from cell towers also placed the Jenkins and Holloway near the Farmington residence at the time of the home invasion, court records show. Jenkins and Holloway remain in custody. Both men are scheduled for sentencing on Nov. 7 in Hartford Superior Court. A pair of men in India each face large fines after their illegal logging operation was captured on social media. As reported by The Tribune, Tok Chand and Ram Nath, both residents of Salgran village in Himachal Pradesh, India, have been accused of illegally cutting down two trees within the village. The men were allegedly caught on video by a group of locals who were investigating the sound of a chainsaw in the area. After being confronted, one of the men revealed that he was operating under orders from a member of the Board of Directors of the Forest Corporation. The video spread through social media, prompting a police investigation. Authorities were then able to recover 36 wooden blocks from the site. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following the investigation, Chand and Nath were fined Rs 1.55 lakh and Rs 1.56 lakh respectively, or around $1,800 each. There has been no indication of whether the men will pay their fines. Illegal logging in India has become a major concern, leading to significant environmental and economic problems. This has contributed to deforestation and biodiversity loss, as well as impacting local communities and their economies. The country has faced several high-profile cases of illegal logging in recent years. In many cases, these activities have been put to a stop by local community members in an attempt to preserve precious natural resources. Unfortunately, illegal logging has also become a growing concern for countries all over the world. A report from Mongabay notes that illegal logging costs Indonesia alone $2 billion in losses every year. Interpol estimates that illegal logging accounts for 15 to 30% of all timber traded in the world, worth up to $152 billion annually. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides disrupting vulnerable habitats, the illegal logging industry has directly contributed to an increase in carbon emissions. Trees play a vital role in carbon storage, or the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Trees can absorb CO2 through photosynthesis, using it to grow and build biomass. This stored carbon can remain in the tree for its entire lifespan. 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. (KRON) Search warrants were served at the homes of two Vallejo residents on Wednesday who are allegedly tied to a nationwide organized retail theft ring, said the Sonoma County Sheriffs Office. Tractor equipment lifted from Morgan Hill construction site Robert Iancu and Mariana Mititescu face multiple charges, including violation of probation, conspiracy and identity theft. Their bail was set at $25,000 each, said SCSO. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The duo initially targeted Sonoma County for the thefts but eventually hit several stores throughout the Bay Area, according to the sheriffs office. Detectives said they discovered several stolen credit cards and gift cards, and dozens of boxes of stolen merchandise, including kitchen appliances, clothing and shoes, when they searched the suspects homes. Photo courtesy of Sonoma County Sheriffs Office. Both subjects are part of a larger network of criminal organizations that travel the United States committing retail theft, said officials in a social media post. The total value of the recovered goods was not disclosed. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 other day, as I sipped my kadak adrak chai while reading The Times of India, I felt a sting on my cheek. Not from my wifes kadak commentary on my third cup, but from sheer second-hand embarrassment. A flyer, a grown man with large limbs, larger luggage, and the largest ego (logic clearly left at check-in) flew into such a rage over excess baggage fees that he sent four airline staffers straight to the hospital. Make no bones about it as they were rushed to Bone & Joint Hospital. Some baggage, it seems, really does break backs. Aaji, whos never seen an airport from the inside but reads Maharashtra Times like it is Foreign Affairs, looked up from her paper, short on sight but long on foresight, said, adjusting her glasses, Beta, jagat kai chhalay? People carry too much ego in their cabin bags. She may be only 10th-standard pass, but her geopolitical knowledge from Trumps tariffs to the Israel-Palestine conflict is sharper than Arnab. And shes right, as always. We do carry too much baggageemotional, political, maritalso why not cabin baggage, too? Lets be honest. In our heads, each of us is the VIP of the flight. Thanks to rising affluence and shrinking fares, many of us have upgraded from sleeper class to 36,000 feet. And having paid for one ticket, we expect the airline to not just wait for us but also wait on us and bear the weight of our entitlement too. So, when airline staff politely point out our bag is over 7 kg, or that theres no tomato juice left, we feel personally attacked. I paid for this flight! As if airlines run on ego, not aviation turbine fuel. But lets flip the tray table here. Ground staff and cabin crew dont wake up thinking, Whose luggage can I insult today? Theyre overworked, overstretched, juggling safety, delays, weight protocols, and your tantrums all with a forced smile. To them, every flyer is just an Alpha, Bravo or Charlie with a seat numberand calling someone Bravo 13 isnt a compliment, it just means youre in seat B13, not that you deserve a standing ovation. Your emotional baggage isnt included in their manifest; theyre not applying for an agony aunt column. Flying is a privilege, not a playground. Follow the rules, treat staff like you would treat a colleague unless you throw paper weights at them too. As Aaji put it: Letting your ego fly only ensures youll soon be grounded. And now, our muscle-flexing flyer may soon join me in the No-Fly List Club. So dear readers, how do we make flying feel less like Fight Club and more like Flight Calm? Write to me at shiv.shambale@timesofindia.com with your mid-air wisdom. And remember, if your ego doesnt fit in the overhead bin, maybe leave it at home. #LaughingSutras Heres what youll learn when you read this story: The United States Air Force wants to acquire two cybertrucks for target practice at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The Cybertruck is one of 33 vehicles the Air Force wants to evaluate in an upcoming munitions test. Teslas Cybertruck is currently only on sale in North America, but several have been imported into other areas of the world. The United States Air Force is looking to acquire two Cybertrucks to serve as targets for upcoming precision munitions testing. While we know theres a non-zero number of you who would jump at the chance to blow up a Cybertruck, the Air Force didnt just decide to delete these vehicles from the Earth out of spite. Publicly available contracting documents from the System for Award Management website sam.gov reveal that Teslas Cybertruck is a vehicle that could potentially be used by an enemy, as they have been found not to receive the normal extent of damage expected upon major impact. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What better way to verify this information than documenting how well our current weapons suite can crater a Cybertruck. Why? Stocktrek Images - Getty Images The Cybertruck is currently only available in North America, which begs the question: what enemies of the United States could potentially get their hands on one? Sure, weve seen a small number exported to other areas of the world, and Tesla recently announced plans to begin direct sales in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates before the end of the year. But given the information we have, its difficult to pinpoint which adversaries higher-ups are worried about procuring a fleet of Cybertrucks. Theoretically, reliability would likely be a number one concern for a desert runabout, but Teslas stainless steel truck famously has some serious drawbacks in that department. Additionally, the vehicles are expensive, starting at $80,000 MSRP. And none of that is to mention that it only has around 320 miles of range, and is still a relatively new platform. Regardless of potential drawbacks the vehicle may have in large-scale combat scenarios, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously stated that the Cybertruck was apocalypse-proof. And while thats remained mostly true against small-arms fire, the AFTC plans to challenge the claim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The War Zone recently reported on the toybox full of precision-guided munitions available to the Stand Off Precision Guided Munitions (SOPGM) program, which is one of the groups responsible for orchestrating this test. Spoiler alert: its a lot scarier than the pistol rounds Tesla has said its vehicle would be able to stop. SOPGM currently has a range of missiles and bombs at its disposal that includes the AGM-114 Hellfire missile, AGM-176 Griffin missile, GBU-69/B Small Glide Munition bomb, and GBU-39B/B Laser Small Diameter Bomb. Important Info Crucially, the scope of this project spans further than obliterating a pair of Teslas stainless steel trucks. Contracting documents reveal that the Cybertruck is just one of 33 vehicles that are being ordered for munitions testing at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. For instance, the Air Force Test Center (AFTC) is also looking to acquire several bongo trucks, which are effectively just Mazda Kei trucks . Weve attached a screenshot below showing the other vehicles that the AFTC is looking to procure. In the lead up to these vehicles meeting their demise, the AFTC has a basic list of requirements theyre looking for in targets. This includes obvious things such as the body panels having little to no damage, and the glass being fully intact. The vehicles dont need to run, but they do need to roll, as they will be towed along during the testing process. Last but not least, all of the fluids need to be drained before delivery. Extra Armor? Many armored vehicles like the Cybertruck raise concerns about what could happen if they fell into the wrong handsarguably understandable, as just this year, weve seen multiple attacks in the U.S. where a truck was used as a weapon. And many companies are already looking to enhance the Cybertrucks armored capabilities. Introducing STING: Protect & Defend With @UpfitTesla & @archimedesdef Go Anywhere: UP INVINCIBLE Tesla Cybertruck With Bolt-On, Bolt-Off Armor Connect Anywhere: With Equipped Starlink Recharge Anywhere: Using Electricity, JP-8 Jet Fuel, Diesel, or Biodiesel pic.twitter.com/lUGtlHYm7D UNPLUGGED PERFORMANCE (@UnpluggedTesla) August 16, 2024 For instance, Unplugged Performancea leading industry developer of go-fast bits for all Tesla modelsrecently developed its Sting lineup of up-armored Cybertrucks . Unpluggeds fleet division, known as UP.FIT, partnered with the armor experts at Archimedes Defense to develop improved versions of the Cybertruck. While UP.FIT has modified Teslas for law enforcement before, the Sting-spec modifications appear to be available to civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While were sad to see the Bongo trucks being blown up, well let you decide your feelings on eviscerating a pair of Cybertrucks. Either way, this test will likely prove a critical fact-finding exercise to discover what our munitions can do to various vehicles. You Might Also Like GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA) U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi joined South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson in Greenville Thursday morning for a roundtable aimed at strengthening partnerships between state and federal agencies to combat crime. It was an honor to host Attorney General Pam Bondi this morning in Greenville, where federal, state, and local law enforcement came together to discuss human trafficking, drug trafficking, illegal immigration, and the alarming rise in acts of antisemitism, said Wilson. Wilson shared his thoughts on the united front between state and federal partners and issued a warning to criminals and cartels in South Carolina, stating, Were coming for you. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The roundtable featured a panel including U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling and Principal Deputy Administrator of the DEA Robert Murphy. Participants discussed public safety threats, including drug & human trafficking, internet crimes against children, immigration enforcement and domestic terrorism. South Carolina sheriffs & police chiefs, FBI & DEA agents, members of the U.S. Attorneys Office and federal lawmakers, including Congressman Joe Wilson, Congressman William Timmons and Congresswoman Sheri Biggs, were also in attendance. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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 logo on the side of an electric car for the Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District. (Kentucky Lantern photo by Liam Niemeyer) The Trump administration has refused to fund a study that was to have measured toxic air pollution in West Louisville. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency denied an appeal of the EPAs cancellation of the grant that was paying for the study, a spokesperson for Louisvilles air pollution regulator said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Lantern previously reported the Louisville Metro Air Pollution Control District was notified by the EPA in March that a $1 million grant for the study would be terminated because it was inconsistent with, and no longer effectuates, agency priorities. It was one of hundreds of canceled EPA grants, the majority involving environmental justice programs. The study was set to benefit predominantly Black neighborhoods in West Louisville. The Louisville agency told the Lantern in May it would contest the grant termination through an internal EPA process. But Madd Mudd, a spokesperson for the air pollution district, in a statement Thursday to the Lantern said the appeal was rejected as Louisville Public Media previously reported. Clearly this is not the outcome we hoped for, but we will continue to keep our options open and conversations will continue with the county attorneys office and our partners on the project about our path forward and other potential work together, Mudd said. The grant was set to pay for placing canisters and monitors measuring volatile organic compounds and airborne metals. Some of the monitors were to be placed downwind of Rubbertown, a collection of chemical plants near West Louisville that has been the subject of complaints from the adjacent neighborhoods and beyond. The monitors would have compared the levels of air pollution and health impacts to those in a study conducted in the early 2000s that found unacceptably high levels of a number of cancer-causing pollutants. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement An EPA spokesperson in an emailed response to the Lantern repeated a statement the agency provided when asked about the grant termination earlier this year, saying the former Biden administration shouldnt have forced their radical agenda of wasteful DEI programs and environmental justice preferencing on the EPAs core mission of protecting human health and the environment. The Trump EPA will continue to work with states, tribes, and communities to support projects that advance the agencys core mission of protecting human health and the environment, the spokesperson said. The air monitoring was part of a larger community project studying the health impacts of air pollution involving multiple organizations. Arnita Gadson, the executive director of the West Jefferson County Community Task Force, one of the groups involved in the community project, told the Lantern the rejection of the appeal was terrible. She said a key part of the community project was educating local health care professionals on how to treat exposure to air pollution. This grant was to help people who had been disproportionately exposed to chemicals from the Rubbertown complex through no fault of theirs, Gadson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gadson said she wasnt sure what would happen with the efforts to study the health impacts of air pollution near Rubbertown. She said the community task force did a previous study with the University of Louisville that heard from people who were exposed to pollution from Rubbertown before the creation of the EPA in 1970. We found a few people who were still living, and the stories they told of living close to those companies they were horrible, Gadson said. These are not DEI people. This story was updated with a response from an EPA spokesperson. DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) A U.N.-backed commission that investigated sectarian violence on Syrias coast earlier this year found that there was widespread and systematic violence against civilians perpetrated by some government-affiliated factions, but found no evidence that it was directed by the central government. An extensive report released Thursday by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria examined the violence that began with clashes between armed groups aligned with former Syrian President Bashar Assad and the new governments security forces in March. It spiraled into sectarian revenge attacks and massacres that killed hundreds of civilians from the Alawite religious minority to which Assad belongs. The violence came months after Assad was ousted in a lightning rebel offensive in December, and at a time when the country's new rulers were attempting to forge a new national army out of a patchwork of former insurgent factions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Widespread and systematic violations The commission named several government-affiliated factions whose members allegedly took part in extrajudicial killings and torture and ill-treatment" of civilians in Alawite-majority areas in a manner that was both widespread and systematic. They include the 62nd and 76th divisions of the new Syrian army, also known as the Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade and the Hamza Division both of them formerly part of a coalition made up of Turkish-backed armed factions in northwest Syria. The report also singled out the 400th Division, made up of former brigades of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an Islamist rebel group that was formerly led by Syria's current interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. However, the report said the commission "found no evidence of a governmental policy or plan to carry out such attacks." It also found that pro-Assad armed groups had committed acts that likely amount to crimes, including war crimes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A separate investigation into the coastal violence ordered by the government released its findings last month. It concluded that some members of the new Syrian military had committed widespread, serious violations against civilians, but said there was no evidence that military leaders had ordered those attacks. The government investigation found that more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians, were killed. In a letter in response to Thursday's U.N. report, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani said the government takes serious note of the alleged violations and that the recommendations which included increased screening of recruits to the security forces and recruiting from minority communities will serve as a roadmap for Syria's continued progress. When asked how the government would deal with the divisions that allegedly carried out attacks on civilians, Ibrahim Olabi, legal advisor to the Foreign Ministry, said it was too early to speak in detail but that we are seeking accountability within our capabilities... in order to achieve civil peace and to ensure that these violations are not repeated. How the violence unfolded Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.N. commission's report noted that in the leadup to the coastal violence in March there had been scattered clashes between pro-Assad and new government forces as well as increasing incidents of harassment and violations" against Alawite communities, "including killings, abductions, looting or occupation of property. In early March, pro-Assad armed groups launched a series of attacks on the General Security forces of the new government along the coast. During the clashes that followed, pro-Assad fighters also overran hospitals, shot at and abducted journalists coming to cover the conflict, and in at least one case shot and killed women and children, the report said. With the General Security forces overwhelmed, tens of thousands of fighters from allied factions, as well as armed civilians, converged on the coast. Many began raiding houses in Alawite-majority areas, where in a large number of cases they asked civilians whether they were Sunni or Alawi and Alawi men and boys were then taken away to be executed, the report found. Most victims were men of Alawi background, aged between 20 to 50 years, though women and children as young as one year old were also killed during house raids, the report said. In some cases, the bodies were desecrated and family members were prevented from burying their dead. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report also found that there had been widespread cases of robbery and looting by armed groups. Allegations of abduction and sexual assault The commission also investigated reports of kidnapping of Alawite women and found credible information of at least six cases in the weeks preceding and following the main outbreak of violence in March. It is investigating dozens of other reports. In at least two of the confirmed cases, the victims were abducted for the purpose of forced marriage, while in other cases the kidnappers demanded ransoms from the victims' families. In one particularly disturbing case prior to the coastal clashes, the report said masked men dressed in black and wearing black headbands inscribed with There is no god but God abducted a woman from the street and gang-raped her, then sold her to an older man to whom she was forcibly married. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Commission is not aware of any individuals being arrested or prosecuted yet in connection with these abductions, the report said. Olabi said the allegations are criminal matters under investigation by the security authorities and are separate from the investigation into the March coastal violence. Another threat to the political transition The report comes as Syria is reeling from another outbreak of sectarian violence last month that has again threatened the country's fragile political transition after nearly 14 years of civil war. This time, clashes broke out in the southern Sweida province between government forces and local Bedouin tribesmen on one side, and fighters from the countrys Druze minority on the other. Hundreds were killed and tens of thousands displaced, and allegations have surfaced of government fighters executing Druze civilians and looting and burning houses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The government has again launched an investigation into the allegations, but minority communities have become increasingly wary of the Sunni Muslim-led authorities. Last week, representatives of Syrias various ethnic and religious groups held a conference in Kurdish-controlled northeastern Syrian city and called for the formation of a decentralized state and the drafting of a new constitution that guarantees religious, cultural and ethnic pluralism. Sewell reported from Beirut. Aug. 13 (UPI) -- The U.S. Treasury Department on Wednesday sanctioned four Mexican nationals and 12 companies in Mexico linked to a "brutally violent" cartel involved in a timeshare fraud of resorts in Puerto Vallarta. The Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control said the Jalisco New Generation Cartel is a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization "that is increasingly supplementing its drug trafficking proceeds with alternative revenue streams such as timeshare fraud and fuel theft." Sanctions include blocking all U.S. property owned by the people and the companies named, and the assets must be reported to OFAC. Violations may include civil and criminal penalties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The agency is reminding current timeshare owners in Mexico: "If an unsolicited purchase or rental offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Those considering the purchase of a timeshare in Mexico should conduct appropriate due diligence." The FBI has a timeshare fraud resource page. Victims of timeshare fraud can file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Complaint Center. Elderly customers can contact the Department of Justice's National Elder Fraud Hotline. Timeshares are fractional ownership for a vacation property, often one week a year, that are not considered an investment and often are tough to resell. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are 56 timeshare developments in Puerto Vallarta on Mexico's Pacific coast, a popular tourist destination that includes beaches, nightlife and cultural attractions. There are 578,000 residents. "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. "These cartels continue to create new ways to generate revenue to fuel their terrorist operations. At President Trump's 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." Approximately 6,000 U.S. victims reported losing nearly $300 million between 2019 and 2023 in timeshare fraud in Mexico, according to the FBI. In 2024, there were 900 complaints with reported losses of more than $50 million. Beginning in 2012, the Treasury Department said the cartel took control of timeshare fraud schemes in Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco and the surrounding area. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These complex scams often target older Americans who can lose their life savings," the release said. "The lifecycle of these scams can last years, resulting in financial and emotional devastation of the victims while enriching cartels like CJNG." After information on timeshare owners is received, call center personnel claim to be U.S.-based third-party brokers, attorneys or sales representatives. Fraud may include timeshare resale, re-rent and investment scams. People are asked to pay advance "fees" and "taxes" via international wire transfers to accounts at Mexican banks and brokerage houses before receiving money supposedly owed to them, the Treasury Department said. The money never comes to the consumers and they are told to pay more "fees" and "taxes." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then they may be further victimized when impersonated law firms claim they can initiate proceedings to recover lost funds. Sometimes, government officials are impersonated, claiming the victims have been involved in suspicious transactions with more "fees" required to release the funds or risk prison time. The Treasury Department said it had blocked all property and interests in property of the persons named, or in possession or control of U.S. people. This also applies to entities owned at least 50% by one of more blocked people. In addition, Americans are not allowed to be involved in the property of people blocked. And secondary penalties may be imposed on participating foreign financial institutions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Treasury Department listed three senior cartel members most involved in the fraud, who "orchestrate assassinations of rivals and politicians using high-powered weaponry." They are Julio Cesar Montero Pinzon (Montero), Carlos Andres Rivera Varela (Rivera), and Francisco Javier Gudino Haro (Gudino). Five companies "explicitly acknowledge their involvement in the timeshare industry" 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." Other companies were involved involved in timeshare-related transactions or involvement in real estate activities. The United States deployed two warships Wednesday to a shoal in disputed waters in South China Sea, where two Chinese ships collided earlier in the week while chasing a smaller Philippine ship. The high-seas accident raised concerns about maritime safety and questions about the extent to which the U.S. should involve itself in longstanding tensions between those countries. 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. In this photo, provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, United States Navy USS Higgins (DDG 76) conduct freedom of navigation operations (FONOP) at the South China Sea on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP The U.S. Navy has staged what it calls freedom-of-navigation voyages and overflights in the South China Sea for years to challenge China's 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deployment happened after Washington's 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. In this photo, provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, United States Navy USS Cincinnati (LCS 20) conduct freedom of navigation operations (FONOP) at the South China Sea on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP The U.S. is also discussing the possible deployment of more missile launcher to the Philippines to strengthen deterrence against tensions in the South China Sea's contested waters, as well as other security hotspots in Asia, Manila's ambassador to Washington told The Associated Press on Thursday. However, neither side has reached a final decision on the matter, said ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez. "This is part of the strong U.S. and Philippines defense partnership," Romualdez told AP. The Philippines is the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. Washington has repeatedly warned that it's obligated to defend the Philippines if Filipino forces come under an armed attack, including in the South China Sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 footage shared by Philippine coast guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela on social media showed a Chinese coast guard vessel tailing the Filipino patrol boat and blasting its water cannon before a Chinese navy warship cuts in front of it. Coast guard footage additionally show a number of Chinese personnel standing at the bow of the coast guard vessel just before that section was hit by the military ship. The Chinese coast guard vessel was damaged, Tarriela said. The Philippine coast guard spokesperson echoed comments from multiple leaders, who urged China to heed international rules that promote peaceful maritime relations, in the aftermath of the collision. China blamed Philippine vessels for the confrontation, with Chinese coast guard spokesperson Gan Yu telling the official state news agency Xinhua that Philippine vessels intruded into the disputed maritime area and disregarded China's repeated warnings. In this photo, taken from video and provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, a damaged Chinese Coast Guard ship, right, is seen beside a Chinese Navy vessel, left, after they accidentally collided while chasing a Philippine patrol boat in the South China Sea on Aug. 11, 2025. / Credit: Philippine Coast Guard via AP 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 People's 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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? Mike Sfraga, then-chair of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, speaks on April 10, 2024, at the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Anchorage. (Photo by Yereth Rosen/Alaska Beacon) The former first U.S. ambassador-at-large to the Arctic, Mike Sfraga, has stepped into a new role as interim chancellor of the University of Alaska Fairbanks, and brings experience, focus, and a unique passion for the states leading research institution, which describes itself as Americas Arctic university. In a phone interview in early August, Sfraga talked about his goals and challenges in the role, which is expected to last one year, as the University of Alaska continues a search for a permanent chancellor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Well, a number of things drew me to this role. One is, its my alma mater, he said. Fall sun hits the University of Alaska Fairbanks entrance sign on September 13, 2023. (Photo by Claire Stremple/Alaska Beacon) Sfraga graduated from UAF in 1997 from the first doctoral program in Northern studies and geography. I believe in its mission for the state, Sfraga said. I believe in its mission for the United States as Americas Arctic university, and I believe in its mission beyond our borders, as a global research institute focused mostly on the Arctic, but not solely. He went on to pursue a career with a focus on the North from Alaska to Washington, D.C. working in various academic, policy research and international diplomacy roles. Sfraga chaired the U.S. Arctic Research Commission, and founded the Polar Institute at the Wilson Center in Washington, D.C. Most recently, he served briefly as the first U.S. ambassador-at-large to the Arctic, appointed by former President Joe Biden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All of my previous positions have, in one way or another, included areas that UAF has expertise in, and so Ive been able to tap into that expertise, especially during my time in D.C. and elsewhere, he said. Sfraga said continuing to grow student enrollment is a top priority. The university has done a very good job over the past three to four years, increasing enrollment somewhere between 3% and 4% year over year, he said. Thats a strong trend line for the university. It shows us that were fulfilling our mission to our state across all programs. So that will be a priority to continue to help build upon our enrollment gains. Secondly, Sfraga said it should be no secret hes focused on the Arctic, and UAFs place for climate science, policy and research, and political and international relations. He said UAF has a role to play in our understanding of the Arctic. The Arctic has become an area of not just regional interest, but global interest, and this institution is poised very well to respond to a very, very strong demand signal for understanding the environment better, the domain better, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That would be from our national security and homeland security perspective, but also changing oceans patterns and ocean acidification and fisheries something so close and near and dear to all Alaskans, especially those who live a subsistence lifestyle, Sfraga said, all those things that we need to have a better understanding of as Alaskans, a better understanding of as a nation, and a better understanding in the global community. I will focus my time on places that I think I can help elevate those programs, enhance those programs, and further build upon those programs, because they are already world class. Sfraga answered questions about changing national political dynamics, and the Trump administrations array of executive orders related to higher education, including immigration enforcement; banning DEI,, or diversity, equity and inclusion efforts; cutting research grants; and cracking down on student protest. We are in a very fluid environment. We need to be abreast of it. The team here is following these issues closely. We will deal with issues that come about as they come about, he said. I think its vital for us to reinforce the fact that we believe in academic freedom, serving all of our students, recognizing we have students from different backgrounds, from all over the state, all over the country, all over the world. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In May, the University of Alaska system had seen more than $50 million in federal funding frozen, Pat Pitney, the universitys president, reported to the UA Board of Regents. This is part of a broader national freeze on certain categories of federal spending, including some money for research. That included a $46 million grant for the Arctic Domain Awareness Center-ARCTIC Center for Excellence, focused on homeland security in the Arctic. Were all waiting for further clarity on this. We know that, you know, members of Congress are working on various levels of funding scenarios for the different federal agencies. Im hopeful that a majority of that funding will be put back into the budget, he said. He noted that the interview was being conducted during his first few days on the job. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So we are working through the beginnings of scenarios, trying to understand what the implications could be . Weve watched this go on for the last several months, but I will be spending a great deal of time working with my colleagues here, along with President Pitney and the board of regents and the Alaska delegation (to Congress), to realize what the implications of these cuts could be to us, trying to mitigate those by communicating the value of research to our state and to our nation, he said. When asked about the University of Alaska regents action earlier this year to scrub reference to DEI or affirmative action, and its impact on student services, Sfraga said he was just days into the job but would be looking into it. The board of regents are in charge of our institution. They have oversight on that policy. So well follow the board of regents policy, obviously, to answer your question about the ripple effects . What I cannot give you yet is my read on all of the implications and everything we have done, because Ive only been in the office a few days, and so that is on my list of issues that I will dig down on, he said. Some students, including some Alaska Native students, have criticized the move to change programs and support services, like the University of Alaska Anchorage reorganizing the Native Student Services program into the Indigenous and Rural Student Center. University officials have emphasized that these changes were separate from the regents anti-DEI language policy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My understanding is that we serve all students, Sfraga said. Its also a commitment that we serve all students. I cannot speak to service levels, what they were and what they are now, Ive not had any discussions that have referenced the decrease in service, just a reaffirmation that we serve all of our students. On the universitys role in Arctic affairs, Sfraga spoke about bringing his experience as a former ambassador to the Arctic to the region, and changing international geo-political dynamics. So part of my role would be to leverage my former position. We are ambassadors for life, even though were not currently in a particular organization, or a particular mission. And so I will look for areas where I can help our Arctic research directors, our research directors, our faculty, link to other universities and other entities throughout the circumpolar north, he said. Our researchers already have longstanding, decades-long relationships. Ill look for very strategic areas that I think I can help move their efforts forward. So Ill look to leverage a Washington, D.C., network in education and research the same abroad, where we have some very strong partners and very strong opportunities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sfraga said Alaskans should know there are many opportunities related to the Arctic. Weve got a lot of challenges, but being at the nexus of domestic and foreign policy, whether its our homeland security, national security, energy security, we have some opportunity here in this new Arctic that we should work together and realize, he said. He added that the Arctic matters in U.S. domestic policy, and, I would argue, a big part of the United States foreign policy, because of our geographic advantage. So as we think about this new Arctic, we need to seize this moment across our state and position ourselves very well for opportunities that will come our way, but they will be based on our ability to to actually move on those opportunities, and thats going to take investment and smart planning. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX The U.K. Royal Air Force F-35B stealth fighter that was forced to make an emergency diversion to Japan last week is still there, the U.K. Ministry of Defense has told TWZ. The F-35B in question, from the Royal Navy carrier HMS Prince of Wales, landed at Kagoshima Airport, in Kirishima City, southwest Japan, at around 11:30 a.m. local time on Aug. 10, following an in-flight malfunction. No injuries to the pilot were reported, and although six flights in and out of Kagoshima were said to be delayed, the airport was soon operating normally again. In the meantime, the F-35B was moved from the runway to a taxiway. Its exact location at the airfield is not currently known. Around 1100 local time this morning, a UK F-35 from @HMSPWLS made an emergency diversion to Kagoshima Airport as a precaution following in-flight defect#CSG25https://t.co/VG84q4KCbH Navy Lookout (@NavyLookout) August 10, 2025 F35B Royal Air Force, No'1 group, No'207 sqn Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning ZM-150 at Kagoshima Airport on 2025.8.10 pic.twitter.com/c9jvDcXlcy (@acct_of_master) August 10, 2025 While the U.K. Ministry of Defense offered no further detail to TWZ about the nature of the technical issues affecting the aircraft now in Japan, it did say that it was completely unrelated to the fault encountered earlier in the cruise, which required a different F-35B to divert to an airfield in India, where it was left stranded for over a month. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The U.K. Ministry of Defense also confirmed that the aircraft in Japan has been assessed by Royal Navy and Royal Air Force engineers; it is now awaiting spares, after which it will be repaired. In the past, the global supply chain of F-35 parts has been questioned, although both the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan itself have F-35Bs based locally. The two F-35B diversions come during what is one of the highest-profile cruises for the type in British service. A U.K. F-35B during Operation Highmast. Crown Copyright AS1 A MAYALL Under Operation Highmast, 18 British F-35Bs are embarked in the Prince of Wales, which has sailed to the Indo-Pacific region. Here, it operated in waters off Australia, during which it took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre. The F-35B component comes from one Royal Air Force and one Royal Navy squadron, with at least one U.S. Marine Corps F-35B boosting these numbers. In the past, Marine Corps F-35Bs have been relied upon to make up the required aircraft numbers during U.K. carrier cruises. Thereafter, the carrier moved to the waters around Japan. While there, the F-35Bs were involved in Exercise Hightower, alongside Japanese and South Korean assets. F-35Bs from the Prince of Wales also became the first British jets to operate from a Japanese naval vessel, when they conducted joint exercises with the Kaga, a helicopter carrier that has been adapted to be compatible with the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) F-35B. A U.K. F-35B launches from the Japan Self-Defense Force flagship, JS Kaga, on Aug. 8, 2025. Crown Copyright AS1 A MAYALL The two F-35B diversions during Highmast are, in themselves, nothing extraordinary. Such incidents are part and parcel of carrier-based aircraft operations. When not executing blue-water operations, a precautionary emergency landing is often the safest option, bearing in mind the many technical, human-factor, and ship-operational issues that make recovering on the carrier a higher risk. This can include low fuel states. Carrier based fixed-wing aircraft divert to land bases for a variety of reasons. It's not some unique phenomenon with the F-35B. Lots to critique with that program, but have to be fair when it comes to common operational practices. Tyler Rogoway (@Aviation_Intel) August 10, 2025 However, given the turbulent history of the F-35 program and persistent questions about the future of the procurement of this aircraft in the United Kingdom, they are subject to additional scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The United Kingdom also lost an F-35B in a well-publicized accident during a previous cruise, when an example crashed in the Mediterranean after an aborted takeoff attempt from the carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth in November 2021, as seen in the video embedded in the tweet below. It later emerged that the cause of the mishap was that one of the jets intake blanks had become stuck in the intake itself. Well thank God he is still with us! Thats all I can say. pic.twitter.com/YtL6f0BFAm Seb H (@sebh1981) November 29, 2021 While the U.K. Ministry of Defense has so far revealed little of what exactly caused the two F-35Bs to divert to alternative airfields, we do now at least have an update on the latest incident. It remains to be seen how long it will take for the required spare parts to arrive, but attention on Operation Highmast is likely to remain intense, with two aircraft now having been sidelined during the same cruise. Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com The US drugmaker Eli Lilly has bowed to demands from Donald Trump by raising the prices of its weight-loss jab for UK customers. The pharmaceutical giant said it was making its obesity drug Mounjaro more expensive in the UK to address pricing inconsistencies compared to other developed countries, including in Europe. Eli Lillys weight-loss jab will now cost between 133 and 330 per injection pen, depending on dosage in the UK. One pen contains four doses. Currently, it costs between 92 and 122 meaning prices could rise by as much as 170pc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That is the list price for private providers. Clinics are able to set their own prices for the jab, although the cost for patients is likely to increase in line with the higher list price. Eli Lilly said the increase would come into force from Sept 1. It comes just days after the US president demanded that drugmakers lower prices for American patients. He suggested they could offset this with higher prices in other countries. Late last month, Mr Trump wrote to pharmaceutical companies including Britains GSK and AstraZeneca, demanding that they negotiate harder with foreign freeloading nations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the letter, he said increased revenues abroad must be repatriated to lower drug prices for American patients and taxpayers. The UK has been seen as a potential target for these increases, given the NHS has a reputation for being among the toughest negotiators on drug prices. It is often able to secure major discounts. Eli Lilly said its previous price for Mounjaro in the UK had been significantly below the European average. A spokesman added: With changes in the environment and new clinical evidence supporting the value of Mounjaro, we are now aligning the list price more consistently to ensure fair global contributions to the cost of innovation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eli Lilly said it had also reached an agreement with the NHS to ensure continued supply and patient access. The company did not disclose what price it had agreed with the NHS, with negotiations with the public health body confidential. However, the NHS typically secures a lower price than private providers for medicines. Eli Lillys Mounjaro drug is available both privately and on the NHS through GPs. However, to get the treatment from a GP, a patient needs to have a BMI of over 40 classing them as severely obese as well as at least four of five specific health conditions, which include type 2 diabetes and sleep apnoea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The requirements are lower for private patients, with people eligible if they have a BMI of 30 or above. The latest step by Eli Lilly will be seen as the start of a wave of higher medicine costs in Britain. Earlier this year, the UK and US signed a trade agreement in which ministers agreed the NHS would review drug pricing to take into account the concerns of the president. Last week, the Government told drugmakers that it would agree to boost spending on medicines to comparable levels with the US. Sir Pascal Soriot, AstraZenecas chief, last month said he agreed that America paid too much for medicines compared to other countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president is right that price equalisation should happen, he said. AstraZeneca has proposed lowering some of its prices in the US, the chief said, forming part of a rebalancing of its prices globally. An NHS England spokesman said: Licensed, cost-effective weight loss medication, such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro) provides a valuable tool to support people to reach a healthier weight and the wider health and lifestyle benefits that offers. The approved list price increase will not affect NHS commissioning of tirzepatide in England for eligible people living with obesity, based on clinical priority, or as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Anyone with questions about their private tirzepatide prescription should contact their private provider. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Ukraine has brought back 84 people, both military and civilians, as part of the 67th prisoner exchange. Source: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on social media; Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War Quote from Zelenskyy: "We are bringing Ukrainians back to Ukraine. A new exchange; a total of 84 people. These are both military and civilians. Almost all of them need medical care and significant rehabilitation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the civilians brought back today are those who were in Russian captivity since 2014, 2016 and 2017. The military personnel brought back today include the defenders of Mariupol. I am grateful to everyone who helps us continue to bring Ukrainian prisoners back." 67th prisoner exchange. Photo: Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War Details: The Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War specified that 33 military and 51 civilian Ukrainians have been brought back from Russian captivity. The peculiarity of today's exchange is that Ukraine managed to bring back civilians and military personnel who were detained in the temporarily occupied territories before the full-scale invasion and illegally sentenced to long prison terms from 10 to 18 years. One of the released prisoners had been in captivity for 4,013 days; he was captured in Donetsk Oblast in 2014. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukrainians captured and convicted by the Russians from 2016 to 2021 are also being brought back. Among those released are three women from Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. One of them is a primary school teacher who was imprisoned in 2019. 67th prisoner exchange. Photo: Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War Among the civilian Ukrainians released on 14 August is a 27-year-old man who was illegally imprisoned by the Russians in 2016. He was only 18 years old at the time. In addition to civilians, defenders from the Mariupol garrison, the Navy and the State Border Guard Service are also coming home. Ten officers have been brought back from Russian captivity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two pairs of brothers who were held in captivity since March and April 2022 are returning from Russian captivity. Most of the released civilians and soldiers have health problems and disabilities. The youngest released person is 26 years old, while the oldest is 74 and had been in a Russian prison for the last seven years (since 2018). Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! KYIV (Reuters) -Ukraine brought home 84 prisoners of war in its latest exchange with Russia that included dozens of civilians, Ukrainian officials said on Thursday, at least one of whom had been held for more than a decade. Thursday's swap included 33 soldiers and 51 civilians, according to the Ukrainian state committee in charge of POWs, which added that one of the prisoners had spent more than 4,000 days in captivity. Another was a primary school teacher captured by Russian-backed separatists in 2019. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Among the civilians released today are those who had been held by the Russians since 2014, 2016, and 2017," President Volodymyr Zelenskiy wrote on X. "Among the military released today are the defenders of Mariupol." Kyiv and Moscow have carried out regular swaps during the 3-1/2-year-old war despite no lulls in fighting, with Ukraine returning more than 5,000 POWs since the Kremlin's February 2022 invasion. (Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; Writing by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Aidan Lewis) The Ukrainian Embassy in Poland has stated that it considers actions directed against memorial sites in the country to be a provocation organised by Russian secret services. Source: the embassy in a statement on Thursday 14 August, as reported by European Pravda Details: This was the diplomatic institution's response to reports that a 17-year-old Ukrainian citizen had been detained in Poland on suspicion of vandalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The embassy said it had asked Polands competent authorities to conduct a thorough investigation while respecting the rights of the Ukrainian citizen. "The embassy strongly condemns any shameful actions directed against memorial sites. We regard this as a provocation by the Russian secret services aimed at creating tension between our peoples. Ukraine consistently advocates respect for historical memory both its own and that of its neighbours. We condemn any manifestations of vandalism or hatred," the embassy said. They stressed that anyone who violates the laws of the country in which they are staying must be held accountable in accordance with the applicable legislation. The embassy is also awaiting a response from the Polish law enforcement authorities regarding vandalism committed earlier against Ukrainian memorial sites in Poland, the diplomatic mission added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Background: On 13 August, the Polish police announced the arrest of two 17-year-old Ukrainians who supposedly painted red and black flags and left "Bandera slogans" on buildings and memorial sites dedicated to the victims of the Volyn tragedy. [The Volyn (Volhynia) tragedy was a series of events that led to the ethnic cleansing of the Polish and Ukrainian populations in 1943 during World War II. It was part of a long-standing rivalry between Ukrainians and Poles in what is now Ukraine's west. Poland considers the Volyn tragedy a genocide of Poles ed.] One of the detainees vandalised a monument to the victims of the Volyn tragedy in the village of Domostawa. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that on Wednesday 13 August, Internal Security Agency officers had detained a young Ukrainian citizen who had likely been recruited by Russian secret services for sabotage activities Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! LONDON -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that the Friday meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin "will not achieve anything" if peace talks exclude Ukraine. Decisions taken without Kyiv's input will be "stillborn decisions," Zelenskyy continued. "They are unworkable decisions. And we all need real and genuine peace," the president said in an address to the nation last weekend. Ukrainian expectations for the summit in Alaska are low, amid fears in Kyiv that the American and Russian leaders will seek to dictate Ukraine's future without its participation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy's talks with European leaders and Trump on Wednesday, though, did appear to find consensus on key Ukrainian demands according to subsequent statements from Zelenskyy and his European counterparts, including that Kyiv will be the one to decide on any territorial concessions and that no such concessions can occur without binding security guarantees. "We must learn from the experience of Ukraine, [and] our partners, to prevent deception by Russia," Zelenskyy said in a statement posted to social media on Wednesday. "There is no sign now that the Russians are preparing to end the war," he added. "Our coordinated efforts and joint steps -- of Ukraine, the United States, Europe, all countries that want peace -- can definitely force Russia to make peace." Trump said Wednesday after the virtual meeting with Zelenskyy and European leaders that there will be "severe consequences" against Russia if Putin did not agree to stop his war on Ukraine. Drew Angerer/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: A view of an entrance to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska on August 13, 2025, ahead of the scheduled meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin there. Oleksandr Merezhko -- a member of the Ukrainian parliament and chair of the body's foreign affairs committee -- likened the coming Alaska summit to the 1938 Munich Agreement -- a pre-World War II accord by which European powers allowed Nazi Germany to annex part of Czechoslovakia without Prague's consent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Putin secured a one-on-one meeting with Trump, providing an opportunity to influence U.S. policy and push for abandonment of Ukraine and European allies," Merezhko told ABC News. "Putin would like to use the summit to persuade Trump to blame Ukraine for the lack of progress on a ceasefire and give him a pretext to walk away from the negotiations," Merezhko said. "Putin is a very masterful manipulator and he will go into Friday's meeting well prepared," Merezhko added. "He will go in with well-prepared, planned and rehearsed talking points." MORE: Why Ukraine's ex-foreign minister believes Putin won't go for peace as Trump summit approaches Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement John E. Herbst, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine now working at the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, said Putin "wants a deal with Trump that will be presented to Kyiv and other European capitals as a fait accompli." The Kremlin's goals remain the "elimination of Ukraine as a state and as a culture, elimination of NATO and undermining of the U.S. global positions," Pavel Luzin, a Russian political analyst at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts, told ABC News. There are several key -- and thorny -- issues for the two leaders to discuss. Territory Territory has been a main source of conflict between the two countries since Russia's annexation of Crimea and fomentation of separatist revolt in eastern Ukraine in 2014. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has remained firm in his demands. Any peace settlement, Moscow has said, must include "international legal recognition" of its 2014 annexation of Crimea and four regions it has occupied to varying degrees since launching its full-scale invasion in 2022. Russia demanded that Ukrainian troops withdraw entirely from the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions -- including areas that Russian troops do not control. The Kremlin claimed to have annexed all four regions in September 2022. Moscow also wants Kyiv to give up on any designs on taking back occupied Crimea. Ahead of Friday's meeting, Trump suggested that a "swapping of territories" could lead to a peace deal. However, Ukrainian officials quickly rejected that idea. Zelenskyy held that the country would not give up any of its land, saying in a Saturday statement, "Ukrainians will not gift their land to the occupiers." The president has since said that any decisions on territorial concessions must be made by Ukraine, and that no such concessions can occur without Ukraine receiving binding security guarantees that include the U.S. AFP via Getty Images/Reuters - PHOTO: Russia's President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Aug. 12, 2025, and President Donald Trump in Washington, Aug. 11, 2025 and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Munich, February 15, 2025. NATO ambitions Russian officials are also looking for their own "security guarantees" regarding NATO, by which Ukraine would be permanently excluded from the alliance, which has a mutual defense agreement among members. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin has regularly expressed concern over NATO's eastward expansion, framing the alliance's growth as an existential security threat to Russia. He has repeatedly warned the alliance against accepting Ukraine as a member, accusing the organization of trying to turn the country into a launch pad for aggression. Russia's deputy foreign minister, Alexander Grushko, said in March that Moscow is seeking "the neutral status of Ukraine, the refusal of NATO countries to accept it into the alliance." Ukrainian officials have continued in their bid to join NATO -- an ambition that has the backing of the vast majority of Ukrainians and is enshrined in the national constitution. MORE: Russia ramps up grinding summer offensive as Ukraine seeks US battlefield aid Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During a news conference earlier this year, Zelenskyy offered to step down from the presidency in exchange for admission to NATO. "If to achieve peace you really need me to give up my post -- I'm ready. I can trade it for NATO membership, if there are such conditions." NATO nations, while backing Ukraine in its defensive war, have refused to allow Kyiv's accession to the alliance. The alliance agreed at a 2008 summit that Ukraine "will become a member of NATO," but the leaders of key allied nations -- including the U.S. -- have said Kyiv cannot accede while it is at war. Limits to Ukraine's military Russian officials have demanded limits to the size of Ukraine's military, which Moscow has framed as necessary to ensure its own security -- a claim dismissed by Kyiv as false. During peace negotiations in the opening days of the full-scale invasion, Moscow demanded that Ukraine reduce its military size to 50,000. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy, however, has expressed concern that any reductions to Ukraine's military could allow Russia to secure more Ukrainian land, even with Western support. "The best thing is a strong army, a large army, the largest army in Europe. We simply have no right to limit the strength of our army in any case," he said in December. Gleb Garanich/Reuters - PHOTO: An explosion of a drone is seen over the city during a a Russian drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 30, 2025. Russia is also demanding limits on Ukraine's weapons arsenals and the sophistication of its military technology. In the days leading up to Friday's meeting between Trump and Putin, Ukraine has increased its long-range drone strikes into Russia. Ukrainian officials have said such attacks are part of its strategy to force the Kremlin into genuine peace talks. Sanctions The lifting of international sanctions on Russia may also be discussed during Friday's meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia is currently the world's most sanctioned country with "50,000 or so measures," according to The Center for European Policy Analysis. Russian officials have stated that a peace treaty should include lifting sanctions imposed since 2022. The European Union has refused requests to reduce sanctions against Russia before a peace deal is secured, and Zelenskyy has called Putin's suggestion that reductions could lead to lasting peace "manipulative." Ebrahim Noroozi/AP - PHOTO: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a joint press statement in Berlin, Germany, on Aug. 13, 2025. Trump has threatened to impose further sanctions on Russia and its top trading partners if Putin fails to commit to a ceasefire. Earlier this month, the U.S. announced additional tariffs on India related to its purchases of Russian oil. "Everyone sees that there has been no real step from Russia toward peace, no action on the ground or in the air that could save lives," Zelenskyy said earlier this week. "That is why sanctions are needed, pressure is needed." ABC News' Patrick Reevell contributed to this report. It is time to put outrage, passion and wishful thinking aside and face facts: in what may well go down in history as the Wests gravest foreign policy failing of the 21st century, Ukraine has lost the war against Russia. The conflict is likely to come to an end sooner rather than later and on terms that favour Putin. Britain must accept that the Ukraine war is all but over and prepare for an even bigger brewing conflict. Tomorrows Alaska talks between Trump and Putin have scandalised European opinion. British defence sources have vented to me their disgust at the free worlds leader sitting down with the most ruthless authoritarian ruler alive to carve chunks out of a country that has fought heroically for the liberal, democratic principles upon which America was founded principles that are fading from a US foreign policy that is increasingly transactional. That Trump hopes to seal the deal by granting Putin access to Ukrainian rare minerals has added a neocolonial whiff to the stench of betrayal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Europes righteous indignation is tinged with hypocrisy. Ukraine has been burned not only by Trumps unsparing America First policy, but by Europes disastrous refusal to invest in its own defence. An end to the war is imminent and it will plunge Europe into its most perilous moment since 1939. The geopolitical dynamics that have enabled Ukraine to hold the line against Russia have shifted. The Biden administration was content to keep the war in permanent stalemate. The hope was that the West could sap Russias power over time, while minimising the risk of a nuclear confrontation. But the Trump administration, far from wanting to slowly destroy Russia, seeks to nurture Moscow as an ally, as it scrambles to contain the biggest threat to US supremacy a rising China. As Moscow becomes ever more reliant on Beijings oil purchases and investment, Washington fears that a cash-strapped and isolated Russia risks becoming a satellite state of China. There is now a strategic logic for both Kyiv and Moscow to end the war. With the West unwilling to decisively ramp up support, Ukraine knows that the longer the war continues, the more calamitous it will be for Ukraine economically, demographically and in a country with shallow democratic roots also politically. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Washingtons leading Russia experts such as Thomas Graham, a fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, believe that Russia is on the cusp of a bankable win: If the Kremlin were to reach a negotiated solution right now, they would get most of what they want. Ukraine is not going to join Nato. The Russians arent going to be pushed out of the territory that they occupy in Ukraine. The issue of discrimination against Russian speakers ought to be resolved because most of those Russian speakers live in territory occupied by Russia at this point. Trump allies are quietly confident that Putin has come to realise that his more grandiose ambitions risk backfiring: the longer a war intended to protect Russian greatness drags on, the more the country risks slipping down the great power rankings. Trump will get his deal, even if the Alaska talks come to naught. Instead of denouncing Trump, Britain should put all its energy into getting ready for a new high-stakes epoch. Even Trump allies voiced to me their fear that the President could draw up a slapdash agreement that dismembers Ukraine and strongarms Europe by threatening to block the Continent from gifting Kyiv with US-obtained weapons and technology in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin will be emboldened by the deal that is inevitably coming. He will focus on replenishing his army and mulling over other expansionist plans against Moldova and Georgia. It is not unthinkable that a full-scale Europe-wide conflict could break out within the coming decade. The best way to prevent such a scenario is to build up Europes military power to a degree that deters Putin. Yet this challenge will be all the more fiendish particularly in light of Americas effective withdrawal from the region. Britain in particular needs to get its finger out. In its determination that we should remain a great military power, the political class dodges the question of which lethal capabilities to focus on. The UK needs to decide whether it can best serve Europe by building up its land army or playing to its naval and air-based strengths. Some in defence circles want us to focus on defending the Arctic North, where Russias shadow fleet threatens critical infrastructure like undersea cables, and wargaming how the RAF could lend cover to expanded German and Polish land powers in the event of a world war. A decision must be made either way and it must be made soon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The time has also come for Britain to prepare for a new era of hybrid warfare. According to Russia expert Mark Galeotti, Moscow is moving away from big ticket cyber attacks towards sabotaging crumbling services in a way that contributes to our sense that everything is broken. As a result of what Galeotti has dubbed this the weaponisation of inconvenience, the result might be that we find streaming a film at night impossible, or that we cannot book a train ticket because the online platform is down. Galeotti tells me: The essence of the Russian approach to warfare is to try and paralyse us, to get us so disillusioned with our system that we are so busy thinking that nothing works and questioning the fundamentals, that we are unable to muster any kind of organised obstacles to Russian activity. Britain is dangerously ill equipped for dealing with this unfamiliar, powerful new kind of conflict. Russia will take particular pleasure in targeting us. The Kremlin harbours a surreal enmity towards Britain; earnest Anglophilia bleeds into unhinged Anglophobia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian elites tend to view Britain as a nation of high intellects, regarding UK education as the absolute pinnacle and even romantically reckoning that British police stations are staffed by Sherlock Holmes geniuses. By the same logic, the Kremlin tends to see the British as the most brilliantly sneaky of Western antagonists. The Kremlin is convinced that Britain gave America the idea of spurring Ukraines Orange Revolution and is preparing to mete revenge. As a new dark age descends on Europe, there is little time for reproach and regret. Our world is becoming more dangerous; we need to be ready. 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. Fighting has raged in Ukraine since Russia launched a full-scale invasion more than three years ago. Over the past year, Russian forces have slowly expanded the amount of territory they control, mostly in the east of Ukraine, and have continued their recent barrage of air strikes on Kyiv and other cities. Despite US President Donald Trump's most recent push for an end to the war - hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin at a summit in Alaska and subsequently meeting Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky and other European leaders - there has been no diplomatic breakthrough. Here is a recap of the situation on the ground in Ukraine. Russia grinds forward in the east In eastern Ukraine, Moscow's war machine has been churning mile by mile through the wide open fields of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions - also known as the Donbas - surrounding and overwhelming villages and towns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It has been trying to gain full control of the area along with two more regions to the west - Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. Shortly after the invasion, Russia held referendums to try to annexe all these regions - in the same way it had annexed Crimea in 2014 - but it has never had them under full control. [BBC] Trump has said any peace deal would involve "some swapping of territories" and it is believed one of Putin's demands is that Kyiv surrenders the parts of the Donbas area it still controls. Zelensky has consistently said Ukraine would not hand over the Donbas in exchange for peace, saying such a concession could be used as a springboard for future attacks by Russia. Summer offensive targets key towns A Russian summer offensive had been progressing slowly, until troops made a sudden thrust near the eastern town of Dobropillya, advancing 10km (six miles) in a short period of time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This rapid advance took place just north of the town of Pokrovsk, described as the hottest spot on the front line at this point of the war. Ukrainian forces have faced superior Russian manpower on the front lines throughout the war, but reported shortages in the east have left this key Russian target increasingly vulnerable. Experts at the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) say Russian troops are attacking Pokrovsk itself. Analysts are concerned that thousands of Ukrainians defending the city could be at risk of encirclement from Russian troops. They note that Russian drone strikes are "severely hindering" evacuation efforts in the area. [BBC] Zelensky has downplayed the latest advance, arguing that Moscow's objective is to create propaganda that "Russia is moving forward, advancing, while Ukraine is losing" before Putin meets Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fighting is also continuing around the nearby town of Chasiv Yar, although Ukraine has denied Russian claims that it has fallen. Little remains of Chasiv Yar after 16 months of artillery, ground and drone attacks, but occupying the high ground it sits on would allow Russia to target big cities in the area of the Donetsk region still under Ukrainian control, including Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk and Slovyansk. Russian incursion north of Kharkiv Further north, Russia has been pushing towards Kupyansk in east of the Kharkiv region, as part of its efforts to capture the whole of Luhansk and encircle northern Donetsk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In addition to the eastern front, in May 2024 Russia began what the ISW describes as its "subordinate main effort", when it crossed the border to the north of Ukraine's second-biggest city, Kharkiv. Several villages were seized and thousands of civilians fled. Recent ISW analysis of the area shows Russia has advanced near Vovchansk and Lyptsi as it tries to create a buffer zone inside Ukraine's northern borders and get within artillery range of Kharkiv. [BBC] Putin says he wants this buffer zone to protect Russia, after Ukrainian forces captured a swathe of territory further north in Kursk last summer. Russian forces eventually drove them out, with the help of North Korean troops. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Russians then pushed on into Ukraine but quickly became bogged down in fighting over small border villages, which keep changing hands even today. Without major reinforcements, it is unlikely Russian troops will advance much further. [BBC] As well as the counter-offensive in the Kursk region, Ukraine has struck air bases deep inside Russia. One of these attacks involved using 100 drones to target nuclear-capable long-range bombers. The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed the attacks had occurred in five regions of Russia - Murmansk, Irkutsk, Ivanovo, Ryazan and Amur - but stated planes had been damaged only in Murmansk and Irkutsk, while in other locations the attacks had been repelled. Kyiv claims the drone operation inflicted $7bn (5.2bn) of damage to the Russian military. It hasn't been possible to verify either country's claims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More recently Moscow blamed Ukrainian drones for a massive oil depot fire near Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi - the venue of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Russia has continued to bomb Ukrainian cities, targeting a key bridge in the southern city of Kherson for the second time in a matter of days and killing 31 people in an attack on Kyiv on 31 July. Ceasefire talks Since Trump took office at the start of 2025, the US has been pursuing an end to the war - now in its fourth year - through negotiations. There have been no major breakthrough in talks, leading Trump to threaten to impose further severe tariffs on Russia, targeting its oil and other exports, if it failed to agree a ceasefire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That deadline passed on the same day it was announced that Trump and Putin would meet at a summit in Alaska. The summit and subsequent meetings with European leaders and Zelensky ended without a peace deal but Trump did not rule out the US helping to guarantee Ukraine's security if a deal could be reached. Security guarantees are generally seen as paramount to any sort of deal with Russia. Trump also suggested there might be a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelensky - something Zelensky has been seeking for some time - however, the Kremlin has subsequently played that down. Ukraine minerals deal At the end of April the US and Ukraine signed a long-discussed deal to share profits from the future sale of Ukraine's mineral and energy reserves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The deal aims to provide an economic incentive for the US - still the country's biggest supplier of military assistance - to continue to invest in Ukraine's defence and reconstruction, as well as to address Washington's concerns over the amount of aid it has already contributed. [BBC] It will also see the establishment of an investment fund to spur Ukraine's economic recovery from the war. Three years of fighting Russia's full-scale invasion began with dozens of missile strikes on cities all over Ukraine before dawn on 24 February 2022. Russian ground troops moved in quickly and within a few weeks were in control of large areas of Ukraine and had advanced to the suburbs of Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian forces were bombarding Kharkiv, and had taken territory in the east and south as far as Kherson, and surrounded the port city of Mariupol. [BBC] But they hit very strong Ukrainian resistance almost everywhere and faced serious logistical problems with poorly-motivated Russian troops suffering shortages of food, water and ammunition. Ukrainian forces were also quick to deploy Western supplied arms such as the Nlaw anti-tank system, which proved highly effective against the Russian advance. By October 2022, the picture had changed dramatically and, having failed to take Kyiv, Russia withdrew completely from the north. The following month, Ukrainian forces recaptured the southern city of Kherson. Since then, the battle has mostly been in the east of Ukraine with Russian forces slowly gaining ground over many months - military experts estimate between 165,000 and 235,000 Russian service personnel have been killed since the invasion. Ukraine last updated its casualty figures in December 2024, when President Zelensky acknowledged 43,000 Ukrainian deaths among soldiers and officers. Western analysts believe this figure to be an under-estimate. By Dominic Bailey, Mike Hills, Paul Sargeant, Chris Clayton, Kady Wardell, Camilla Costa, Mark Bryson, Sana Dionysiou, Gerry Fletcher, Kate Gaynor and Erwan Rivault About these maps To indicate which parts of Ukraine are under control by Russian troops we are using daily assessments published by the Institute for the Study of War with the American Enterprise Institute's Critical Threats Project. The situation in Ukraine is often fast moving and it is likely there will be times when there have been changes not reflected in the maps. This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. Given the optimistic tone coming from so many world leaders ahead of Donald Trumps Friday meeting with Vladimir Putin, one might be forgiven for believing a peaceful end to Russias war in Ukraine was merely hours away. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called Wednesdays video call with Trump to discuss Trump's upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin a truly exceptionally constructive and good conversation. From his point of view, Trump would rate it a 10, very friendly. Putin told reporters on Thursday that he saw Trump making quite energetic efforts to stop the fighting, end the crisis, and reach agreements of interest to all parties involved in this conflict. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All the while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose country remains under constant attack from Putins Russia, seemed to say what everyone else didnt want to acknowledge: Putin does not want peace. He wants to occupy us completely. Ahead of a bilateral summit between U.S. and Russian leaders slated to take place on Friday in Alaska, no one was offering hard predictions. Its impossible to forget just how effectively Putin has succeeded in bending Trump with his charm, brutality, and mind games. The session in Anchorage is likely far from resolving the three-year-old war but could, if Trumps comments this week hold true, a first step toward winding down a conflict that has left Trump beyond frustrated that he cannot simply will peace into being. But everyone has seen Trump set out with one plan only to see him return with a completely revised notion. Its why Putin is already trying to distract Trump with other agenda items before they even meet. To be blunt, its a coin-toss what happens next. But one thing is certain: none of it will match the tranquility and conformity that leaders were trying to project heading into this session. Trump is famous for going into these sessions under-prepared and over-confident. And recent reports suggest Trump may be preparing a deal with Russia that would trade rare mineralsperhaps those mined in Alaskawith Russia in exchange for peace in Ukraine, a suggestion Trump did not shoot down during a Thursday meeting with reporters. Separately, there are reports that Trump is bandying around an idea that would give Russia military and economic control of an occupied Ukraine, much like Israel has the run of the Palestinians West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, the expectations-lowering machine was going so fast this week you could see the smoke coming off the gears, with Trump on Thursday doubling-down on the idea that Fridays session was merely an opening act for the real games that would come quickly and with Zelensky on hand. We have a meeting with President Putin tomorrow, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday. I think it's going to be a good meeting, but the more important meeting will be the second meeting that we're having. We're going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe we'll bring some of the European leaders along. Maybe not. Its the maybe not that has a lot of Ukraines allies on edge. Europes bloodiest war since 1945 has left the continent unsettled, the West dusting off its Cold War instincts, and Russia increasingly isolated. This will be the first time Putin has had an in-person audience with a U.S. President since 2021, or since he invaded Ukraine the following year. That Trump would welcome Putin on U.S. soil was being spun both as Trump securing home-turf advantage and a moment of capitulation to a cold-blooded dictator whose values are anathema to American values. For his part, Trump has been aggressively cagey about the summits goals as he tries to improvise his way toward the Nobel Peace Prize he openly covets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We're going to see what happens. And I think President Putin will make peace. I think President Zelensky will make peace. We'll see if they can get along, and if they can, it'll be great, Trump said of the two leaders who have killed thousands of foes in a battle that seems fated. White House officials and their proxies on the outside have been shameless in repositioning the goalposts so that Trump could declare a win no matter the outcome. The talking point calling the summit a listening experience drew so much derision, it teeters on becoming the new Infrastructure Week, a branding campaign infamous for its lack of tangible results. On Thursday, Trump leaned into that posture in his freewheeling session with reporters. We're going to find out where everybody stands, Trump said, seemingly oblivious to the fact Russia invaded Ukraine and has been far from an honest negotiating partner. And I'll know within the first two minutes, three minutes, four minutes, or five minutes left, we tend to find out whether or not we're going to have a good meeting or a bad meeting. And if it's a bad meeting, it'll end very quickly, and if it's a good meeting, we're going to end up getting peace in the pretty near future. In an earlier radio interview, Trump said he put the odds of a failed summit at one-in-four and said he would leave Alaska immediately if things go sideways. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pieces were certainly in the wings for that outcome. Putin is bringing with him a business delegation that could distract Trump from the task at hand with the prospect of big-ticket investment vehicles. Trump, above all else, sees himself as a deal maker, and an economic package at home could prove more tempting than peace in a far-away corner of the globe. At the same time, Kremlin officials have dangled a nuclear treaty as another potential subject of conversation. Trumps advisers see the risk. Putin knows its potential. And Trump himself seems indifferent to the distractions hiding in plain sight. So as Fridays summit barrels toward a starting pistol, it is the diplomatic equivalent of a jump ball, with two nuclear powers making a play as Ukraine is left to watch from afar a discussion about its sheer survival. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com. Ukraine and Russia have carried out another prisoner swap, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday. "A new exchange, 84 people," Zelensky wrote on his Telegram channel on Thursday. Both soldiers and civilians are included, the Ukrainian leader said. Zelensky thanked the United Arab Emirates for its help in organizing the exchange. The Ukrainian Staff for Prisoner of War Affairs said this was the 67th exchange since the start of the war. It took place one day before US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin are due to meet for a summit in the US state of Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kiev said 33 Ukrainian soldiers and 51 civilians were returned. The exchange took place on the border with Belarus. Some of the prisoners had been detained in the Moscow-controlled separatist regions of eastern Ukraine between 2014 and 2022, including three women from the Donetsk and Luhansk areas. One man was said by Kiev to have been in captivity for more than 4,000 days since 2014. Russia has confirmed the handover. The Russian Defence Ministry reported the return of 84 Russian prisoners of war. However, it said that 84 Ukrainian soldiers were handed over, and did not mention any civilians. Ukraine has been fighting off a Russian invasion for almost three and a half years. Aug. 14 (UPI) -- Ukraine and Russia participated in a prisoner swap that released 84 Ukrainians from Russian captivity, with more to come over the next few days. "We are bringing Ukrainians back home to Ukraine," said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on X. "A new exchange, 84 people, both military personnel and civilians. Almost all of them require medical care and significant rehabilitation." We are bringing Ukrainians back home to Ukraine. A new exchange, 84 people, both military personnel and civilians. Almost all of them require medical care and significant rehabilitation. Among the civilians released today are those who had been held by the Russians since 2014,... pic.twitter.com/ITZDetOHIQ Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) August 14, 2025 Some of the prisoners returned to Ukraine were those captured before the war broke out in 2022. One of which, a resident of the Donetsk region, had been detained for nearly 11 years, since 2014, the Kyiv Post reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The military personnel that were freed were defenders of Mariupol, some in the Ukrainian navy and members of the state Border Guard Service. Vitalii Atamanchuk, 74, was the oldest person in the swap. He was arrested by Russia in 2018 in Donetsk. At the time, his wife and son were taken with him but were later released, the Kyiv Independent reported. Home pic.twitter.com/8osh4uUBQB Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) August 14, 2025 The swap started on Friday and will continue on Saturday and Sunday, with Kyiv and Moscow expected to swap 2,000 people -- 1,000 from each side, CNN reported. It was the only significant outcome of a meeting in Istanbul last week. It was the first time the two sides had met in person since the invasion. WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet face-to-face with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The White House is calling it an early step in what could be a much longer process to end the war in Ukraine. President Trump says Fridays meeting with Vladimir Putin is about opening the door to diplomacy, not signing a peace deal just yet. If we can get the war solved, well be very happy, said Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president says the sit-down is a chance to listen to Putin with formal negotiations still to come once Ukraine is at the table. I think President Putin will make peace. I think President Zelenskyy will make peace. Well see if they can get along, said Trump. President Trump says hell know right away which direction his meeting with Putin is going. If its a bad meeting, itll end very quickly, said Trump. In London, the U.K. prime minister welcomed Ukrainian President Zelenskyy with the Alaska meeting at the top of their agenda. Meanwhile in Moscow, Putin told his government he believes the U.S. is making a good faith effort. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We want there to be peace. Were going to do everything we can to achieve one but ultimately it will be up to Ukraine and Russia to agree, said Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to attend the meeting. The longer these wars go on, the harder they are to end, said Rubio. And ahead of Fridays summit Ukraine and Russia completed a prisoner swap, each side exchanging 84 people. Both leaders are expected to hold a short joint press conference after the meeting, but the White House is making clear, no major agreement is expected. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. Less than an hours drive from downtown Kyiv, a cluster of sleek black modular buildings with metal roofs and dark-tinted glass stand in an open field. But no one will ever live in them because this is a new training facility for Ukrainian soldiers. The muffled cracks of suppressed gunfire pierce through the August afternoon air, days before Vladimir Putin meets Donald Trump in Alaska 5,000 miles away. Here, despite mounting international hopes for a ceasefire, Ukraine is preparing for the future and a long war with Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been so many of these meetings, we dont pay attention any more, says one elite fighter, scouting the grounds for future training sessions with his team. As world leaders meet in Alaska, Ukrainian troops keep their focus on the battlefield - Anadolu/Getty Behind every soldier at the range stands an army of workers in factories, keeping the war supplied. In drone factories across Ukraine, no one is holding their breath for a breakthrough at Fridays meeting. Even if a ceasefire is reached, few believe Putin wants lasting peace. Many see the countrys rapidly expanding defence industry as Ukraines most reliable security guarantee. If you want peace, be prepared for war, says Aleksey Dudkin, a representative from TerMIT, a Ukrainian drone company supplying unmanned ground drones to the Ukrainian military. Nobody is stopping; we are even increasing the amount of production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year, the Ukrainian government ordered 10,000 ground drones 2,000 to be made by TerMIT for logistics, medical evacuations, and, increasingly, direct assaults on Russian positions. Last winter, Ukraines elite Khartiia Brigade carried out the first successful all-drone assault on Russian forces, an unprecedented feat in modern warfare and a signal that innovation is moving faster than politics can keep pace. Ukraine is ramping up drone production with no signs of slowing down. At the start of the full-scale war, Ukraine produced about 5,000 drones per year. This year, that number is expected to reach 4 million. The number of drones we can make is increasing every day, says Mr Dudkin. When TerMIT first began production in 2024, it produced 20-25 ground drones per month, now it is producing as many as 350 every month. 10,000 ground drones were ordered this year alone, transforming how Ukraine fights - Pierre Crom/Getty Its not just the big companies making profits from drones. Every grandma who used to sell sunflowers on the corner is now selling drone parts, one soldier tells The Telegraph. Everybodys making a living. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the start of the war, Ukraine had relied heavily on Western military aid. Now, more and more defence production is taking place inside the country. We have switched to all Ukrainian producers, explains Mr Dudkin. All microchips and engines are made in Ukraine. According to Mr Dudkin, 70 per cent of a TerMIT drone is built with Ukrainian parts. This shift toward domestically produced weapons extends across the sector. Ukraines deputy defence minister, Valerii Churkin, says 95 per cent of all aerial drones used on the front lines are now Ukrainian-made. Russia is also keeping pace in drone production. This year, it is expected to manufacture 79,000 Shahed drones, according to Ukraines military intelligence agency (HUR). Hundreds have been launched at Ukrainian cities on a nightly basis since ceasefire talks began earlier this year, a figure expected to soon reach the thousands. Moscow shows no sign of slowing down. Over the next three years, the Kremlin plans to invest an additional $1.38 billion in drone production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since talks of a ceasefire began, Mr Dudkin says they have seen no slowdown in demand. We have seen an increase, every hour, every day. But the goal is not to prolong the war. The goal is to save lives, Mr Dudkin explains. A ground drone can carry supplies that would typically require six soldiers, and can take on dangerous tasks such as laying or clearing mines, keeping troops out of harms way. The looming question is what will happen to these companies if a ceasefire deal is reached in Alaska this Friday. We will finish what we have started, says Mr Dudkin, referring to their contracts with the Ukrainian government. Ukraine is one of the most mined countries in the world. We still have plenty of work ahead of us. If the war ends with a ceasefire, it will leave behind a massive defence industry in Ukraine. Drone companies have boomed since the invasion, with firms like TerMIT seeing sharp increases in value. One year ago, our company was valued at 1 million hryvnias ($24,000). Now its capitalisation is around 60 billion, Mr Dudkin says, adding that they are hiring new engineers every day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our main goal is to increase production all over the world, explains Mr Dudkin, who says TerMIT is currently in discussions with clients in the United Kingdom. It comes as Volodymyr Zelensky met Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street on Thursday to discuss Ukraines demands for a peace settlement. Mr Zelensky had attended a virtual summit with Mr Trump and other European leaders, including Sir Keir, Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz on Wednesday. Speaking after the talks, the Ukrainian president said his American counterpart backed security guarantees for Ukraine. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After the European leaders rallied around Mr Zelensky, Mr Trump threatened Putin with severe consequences if he did not agree to a ceasefire at the summit. Despite diplomacy, few on the frontline believe lasting peace is near - Anadolu/Getty But on the frontlines of Ukraine, very few expect peace anytime soon, and production continues at full pace. Even if a ceasefire deal is reached this Friday in Alaska, civilians, soldiers, and defence professionals alike share the belief that any peace with Russia cannot be trusted. Back at the shooting range, a group of battle-hardened soldiers trains alongside new recruits. Putin hasnt and wont ever change his view that Ukraine shouldnt be an independent country, says one. Ukraine will continue to fight for its freedom and its right to exist, whatever happens. 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. Civilian Bohdan Kovalchuk has been brought back to Ukraine as a result of another prisoner exchange with Russia. He had been held in captivity since 2016, when Russian forces detained him at the age of 17. Source: Hromadske, a Ukrainian public broadcaster Details: Bohdan's grandmother, Tetiana Hots, said she had already spoken to him on the phone and was now travelling to see him for the first time since his imprisonment. "Grandma, Im coming home," Bohdan told her. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bohdan was among several teenagers detained in August 2016 in the territory of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic (DPR), according to the Media Initiative for Human Rights. At the time, he lived in the city of Yasynuvata with his mother, grandmother and great-grandfather and was planning to move to Toretsk to study as an auto mechanic. His grandmother said Bohdan was in Yasynuvata to collect documents for enrolment in a college when he and other youths were detained while leaving the occupied town. They were accused of being recruited by Ukraines Security Service (SSU) to blow up a railway junction in Yasynuvata. He was labelled the "leader of a gang" and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Some of the teenagers were later pardoned, reportedly on the condition that they refuse prisoner exchange and remain in the DPR. Bohdan declined the pardon and served his sentence in Toretsk Penal Colony No. 28. Tetiana Hots said her grandson never complained, telling her: "I can endure everything; dont worry". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In January 2022, the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner reported that Bohdan had serious lung problems and needed regular medical supervision, which was unavailable in the colony. Background: On 14 August, Ukraine secured the release of 84 civilians and soldiers from Russian captivity, including people held since 2014 and defenders of Mariupol. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian defence forces struck an oil refinery in the Russian city of Volgograd that produces fuel for Russian forces on the night of 13-14 August. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Details: The Volgograd oil refinery (Lukoil-Volgogradneftepererabotka LLC), which supplies Russian troops with petroleum products, is reported to have been struck by Ukraines Unmanned Systems Forces and Defence Intelligence, in cooperation with other components of the defence forces. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drone strikes caused severe fires at the plant. Information about the detailed consequences of the attack is being gathered. For reference: The Volgograd oil refinery, owned by Russian energy giant Lukoil, is the largest producer of fuel and lubricants in Russia's Southern Federal District. It processes more than 15 million tonnes of oil annually, accounting for 5.6% of all Russian refining. The refinery produces diesel, petrol and jet fuel, which are critical to the logistics of the Russian armed forces. Previously: Numerous Russian sources reported a large-scale drone attack on Volgograd. Background: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Volgograd plant has been repeatedly attacked by Ukrainian UAVs. On the night of 12-13 August, local residents reported an attack on the Krasnoarmeysky district of Volgograd, where the refinery is located. On the night of 14-15 January, Russian media reported a fire at the Lukoil oil refinery, preceded by an explosion. In 2024, the oil refinery in Volgograd was attacked twice by Ukrainian drones. This happened on 3 February and 11 May. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has held a phone call with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, focusing on ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the Russo-Ukrainian war. Source: Sybiha on X (Twitter), as reported by European Pravda Details: Sybiha said that during his conversation with Anand, they discussed ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a just peace for Ukraine. During our call with Canadian Foreign Minister @AnitaAnandMP, we discussed ongoing international diplomatic efforts to achieve a just peace. Grateful for reaffirming that Canada stands with Ukraine and Ukrainian people. We agreed on the importance to increase political and Andrii Sybiha (@andrii_sybiha) August 14, 2025 Quote: "We agreed on the importance of increasing political and sanctions pressure on Russia by using all available leverage to make Russia accept a ceasefire and start a genuine peace process. Russias frozen assets must be fully used to ensure the aggressor pays the price for its war." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement More details: Sybiha also stressed the importance of Canadas participation in the coalition of the willing and expressed gratitude for all the support. Background: Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Two 17-year-old Ukrainian citizens have been detained in Poland for supposedly painting red and black flags and leaving "Bandera slogans" on buildings and memorial sites dedicated to the victims of the Volyn tragedy. [The Volyn (Volhynia) tragedy was a series of events that led to the ethnic cleansing of the Polish and Ukrainian populations in 1943 during World War II. It was part of a long-standing rivalry between Ukrainians and Poles in what is now Ukraine's west. Poland considers the Volyn tragedy a genocide of Poles ed.] Source: Tomasz Siemoniak, Polish Minister of the Interior and coordinator of Polish intelligence services; the office of Prime Minister Donald Tusk; TVN 24, a Polish 24-hour commercial news channel; European Pravda with reference to the Wrocaw police Details: The Wrocaw police reported that "according to the investigators' findings, the detainees placed Bandera flags and slogans promoting Nazi ideology and glorifying Stepan Bandera on the facades of buildings and monuments dedicated to the victims of the Volyn tragedy". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The detentions were carried out through coordination by officers from the criminal department of the Wrocaw Municipal Police, the Internal Security Agency and the Central Bureau for Combating Cybercrime. It is alleged that these actions took place in Wrocaw, Warsaw and, more recently, in the village of Domostawa. The investigation is being supervised by the National Prosecutor's Office. Details: Siemoniak reported that the detained teenager had "vandalised monuments to victims of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) and public buildings by painting anti-Polish slogans" following instructions from foreign intelligence services. He said these actions had intended to "fuel discord between Poles and Ukrainians". [The UPA, or the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, was a nationalist paramilitary organisation that fought for Ukrainian independence during and after World War II, primarily against Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union ed.] Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This young Ukrainian was recruited by foreign intelligence services. You couldn't find a better gift for the Russians," the Polish prime minister commented on the teenager's detention. He added that this is not the first case of Russia recruiting Ukrainians and Belarusians for provocations in Poland. "Let us remember that in almost every such case, Russia is behind attempts to stir up conflicts, anti-Polish sentiment in Ukraine, and anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Poland," Tusk emphasised. It is currently unknown whether this refers to one of the detainees reported by the Wrocaw police. Background: On 12 August, Tusk accused Russia of trying to sow discord between Warsaw and Kyiv. He stated that anti-Polish gestures by Ukrainians and the incitement of anti-Ukrainian sentiment in Poland are part of Russian leader Vladimir Putin's plan. On 13 August, it became known that the Polish prosecutor's office had submitted an indictment to court against six members of an organised criminal group accused of sabotage on behalf of a foreign state. In February 2025, a Ukrainian was sentenced to eight years in a Polish prison for plotting sabotage in favour of Russia. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! A UN commission investigating sectarian bloodshed in Syria's Alawite heartland documented systematic violence at the hands of government forces and allied groups, warning Thursday that some of the acts could constitute war crimes. The violence in March unfolded along Syria's predominantly Alawite Mediterranean coast, where security personnel and their allies were accused of carrying out summary executions, mostly targeting civilians from the religious minority, with a war monitor saying more than 1,700 people were killed. The Syrian foreign ministry said it was committed to "incorporating the (commission's) recommendations into the ongoing process of institution-building" and of consolidating the rule of law. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN commission said in its report on Thursday that the violence committed by "members of the interim government forces and private individuals operating alongside or in proximity to them... followed a systematic pattern across multiple, widespread locations". "The violations included acts that likely amount to war crimes," it said. The commission documented cases of "murder, torture and inhumane acts related to the treatment of the dead, widespread looting and burning of homes all of which displaced tens of thousands of civilians". Syria's new authorities have accused gunmen loyal to ousted ruler Bashar al-Assad of instigating the violence by launching deadly attacks that killed dozens of security personnel. The UN commission also found that pro-Assad forces were implicated in the violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement - 'Deeply disturbing' - Human rights groups and international organisations have said entire families were killed, including women, children and the elderly. Gunmen stormed homes and asked residents whether they were Alawite or Sunni before killing or sparing them, they said. The UN commission documented similar cases involving the killing of Alawite men. During his rule, Assad -- himself an Alawite -- cultivated an image as a defender of minorities, even as his authoritarian tendencies plunged the country into civil war. Since his December ouster at the hands of Islamist-led rebels, the violence on the coast and in south Syria's Druze heartland have raised questions about the new authorities' ability to provide security and manage sectarian tensions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN commission -- which said it had been granted "unfettered access" to the area by the post-Assad government -- based its findings on more than 200 interviews with victims and witnesses. It said there were "reasonable grounds to believe" that members of the security forces and other private individuals engaged in "serious violations of international human rights law". "The scale and brutality of the violence documented in our report is deeply disturbing," said commission chair Paulo Sergio Pinheiro, urging accountability and expanded efforts to arrest perpetrators. - 'Serious note' - Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission said it "continues to receive information about ongoing violations in many of the affected areas, including abductions of women, arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances". It said it had "found no evidence of a governmental policy or plan" to carry out the attacks, though their systematic nature "in certain locations may be indicative of an organisational policy within certain factions or groups". In a letter to the commission, Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani said the government took "serious note of the alleged violations", saying they "appear to be consistent with the findings" of the Syrian inquiry. US envoy for Syria Thomas Barrack called the report "a serious step towards definable and traceable metrics to the Syrian government's responsibility, transparency and accountability". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The commission said it was also investigating recent violence in Syria's Druze-majority Sweida province that it said highlighted the urgency of implementing the report's recommendations. In its own inquiry, the committee formed by the Syrian authorities documented "serious violations against civilians" in March. The committee confirmed "the names of 1,426 dead, including 90 women", and identified "298 individuals by name" who were suspected of involvement in the violations. bur-lar/lg/kir The United Nations warned Israel and Russia on Thursday that their militaries faced being listed as parties suspected of committing sexual violence in conflict in light of credible evidence of violations. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres's report said the two countries risked being added to a list of parties thought to use sexual violence including rape in conflict that includes Myanmar's military, Sudan's army and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. "Due to significant concerns regarding patterns of certain forms of sexual violence perpetrated by Israeli armed and security forces and Russian armed and security forces and affiliated armed groups, these parties have been put on notice for potential listing in the next reporting period," said the annual report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These concerns relate primarily to violations recorded in detention settings." In the case of Israel, the report alleges "credible information" military and security forces perpetrated patterns of sexual violence including "genital violence, prolonged forced nudity and repeated strip searches conducted in an abusive and degrading manner." In February, the Israeli army said it had charged five soldiers for abusing a Palestinian detainee at a site used to hold Palestinians following the start of the war in Gaza in the wake of the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. Among the charges was an allegation that the accused had stabbed a man with a sharp object "which had penetrated near the detainee's rectum." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report said there was "credible" evidence of violations "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," it said. In 2024, the human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine documented 209 cases of conflict-related sexual violence, including rape, the report added. Israel has cooperated with a special representative on the issue of sexual violence in conflict, whereas Russia has not, the report said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report said however that Israel's refusal to grant access to inspectors had frustrated her ability to determine patterns and trends. Israel rejected the report's findings and called a letter that accompanied it from Guterres "unusual." "The UN must focus on the shocking war crimes and sexual violence of Hamas and the release of all hostages," Israel's ambassador to the UN Danny Danon said. "Israel will not shy away from protecting its citizens and will continue to act in accordance with international law." Russia's embassy to the United Nations did not respond to a request for comment. gw/sst WODEN, Texas (KETK) The Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office has arrested a man who was a target of an undercover operation into methamphetamine dealers. Carthage man sentenced to 12 years in prison for 2023 deadly shooting The Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office received multiple complaints about meth dealers in the area and subsequently launched an operation aimed at targeting these dealers. Among people of interest included Billy Husband, 58 of Nacogdoches, who undercover deputies were able to buy methamphetamines from. Photo courtesy of Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office. Photo courtesy of Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office. Mugshot of Billy Husband, courtesy of Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office. Following these undercover purchases, a search warrant was secured for a property on County Road 520 near Woden, which was searched just after 5 a.m. on Friday. Officials first searched an RV on the property where they found three adults and a child sleeping inside. Mugshot of Rachel Michelle Rita, courtesy of Nacogdoches County Sheriffs Office. The sheriffs office said a small amount of meth was found in the possession of one of the adults, Rachel Michelle Rita, 35 of Etoile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later on in the search of the property, 18 grams of meth were found along with two digital scales, small baggies and numerous weapons, according to the sheriffs office. Husband and Rita were then arrested at the property. Husband has been charged with four counts of manufacture or delivery of a controlled substance and one count of endangering a child. Husband was being held in the Nacogdoches County Jail but has since been released after posting a total bond of $350,000. Rita was charged with possession of less than one gram of a controlled substance and is currently being held in Nacogdoches County Jail. You can now stream KETK and FOX51 News live 24/7 on your smart TV with KETK+, our brand-new app! No antenna, cable, or satellite neededwatch for free, anytime. Just download it on your Roku, Apple TV, or Fire TV and start streaming. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com. Gregory Murphy speaks at a press conference with SEIU Local 26 announcing wage theft investigations into three contractors for Ramsey and Hennepin counties. Murhpy says he was underpaid around $6 per hour in wages in benefits as a security guard in the Hennepin County libraries for Black Knight Protection Services. (Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer) Dozens of custodians and security guards in Ramsey and Hennepin counties may have been shorted more than $700,000 while working in libraries, detention facilities and other government buildings, according to SEIU Local 26, a union representing thousands of property service workers. Union president Greg Nammacher says they reviewed workers paystubs and public records and found three contractors PK Property Services, Squeaky Services, and Black Knight Protection Agency have been underpaying workers $5 to $12 per hour in wages and benefits by failing to pay prevailing wages. Around 75 workers may be affected, Nammacher said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PK Services, Squeaky Services and Black Knight Protection Services did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Companies with government contracts are often required to pay workers prevailing wages, which are set by labor regulators based on the local average wage paid to similarly employed workers. But workers may not know that theyre entitled to pay and benefits above the minimum wage. Gregory Murphy, who worked for Black Knight for four years at Hennepin County libraries, said he found out from a union organizer that he should be making $30.44 per hour including wages and benefits. He was only making $24.62 per hour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is wage theft. Plain and simple, Murphy said during a news conference on Thursday. My coworkers and I work hard and deserve every dollar we earn. As of last week, Murphy works for a different contractor Unparalleled Security providing security in Hennepin County libraries and is earning the prevailing wage. Jhonnier Gazo said he, too, didnt know he was entitled to prevailing wages $27.80 per hour in wages and benefits as a custodian for PK Services in the Ramsey County Juvenile Detention Center until he was approached by a union organizer. He was earning $18 per hour with no benefits. Although Im afraid of losing my job, I am not afraid to raise my voice. I came to this country to work honest work, and I deserve the same honesty from my employer, Gazo said in Spanish through an interpreter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SEIU Local 26 says they submitted their findings to the Ramsey and Hennepin county attorneys offices, which are investigating the alleged wage violations. SEIU Local 26 criticized Ramsey County last year for switching to non-union contractors, warning the move would lead to job losses and lower labor standards. At the time, PK Property Services already faced allegations of wage theft at an apartment development in Edina. Many of our members ultimately lost their jobs a year ago, and today we see that, unfortunately, our cause for concern has come to fruition, Nammacher said. In 2019, Minnesota legislators passed one of the most stringent wage theft laws in the country, making it a felony to steal more than $1,000, like other forms of theft. Yet few have been charged in the past six years. Earlier this year, Hennepin County attorney Mary Moriarty secured the first felony conviction of a painting contractor. He was sentenced to three years probation. JACKSON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Sciences, or IFAS hosted local farmers at their Jackson County Research and Education Center on Thursday. Anyone relating to the process of growing peanuts was able to attend and learn about the newest research in the field. Farmers loaded into one of several wagons for a trip out into the fields. They got the chance to see, first-hand, some of the issues facing peanut production. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have six different topics that we talk about in the field throughout the course of our day. We have growers, consultants, county agents, and other interested parties who come to hear the latest in our research and how it can benefit their farm and their business, said Professor of Agronomics and Breeding at UF, Barry Tillman. Each stop on the tour addressed a different topic, like the use of pesticides, insect control, new varieties of peanuts, and diseases that might affect production. Our main goal is to make sure that we that our growers and our our county agents and our consultants and allied industries have the latest information about peanut varieties, about peanut disease control, peanut nematode control, all the things that would impact the crops and make sure that they have the best information that we can possibly give them, says Tillman. Its also a chance for these farmers to get together and compare notes about their own experiences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They even had the opportunity to network over a fried catfish lunch. UF/IFAS hosts the peanut field day in August each year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com. The University of Iowa has launched an initiative that will bring together UI employees to create plans to increase revenue and efficiencies. Shown here is a statue of the University of Iowa mascot on campus in Iowa City. (Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch) The University of Iowa announced Thursday the launch of a new initiative aimed at identifying solutions for raising revenue and bettering efficiency in order to take a proactive position ahead of further changes in higher education. The university stated in a public release Thursday its new campus initiative, titled the Revenue and Efficiencies Strategic Plan Action and Resource Committee (reSPARC), is being implemented as part of its 2022-2027 strategic plan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX According to the release, the UI is starting this work from a position of financial health so it can strengthen its current success amid increasing financial uncertainties, decreasing trust in higher education and a looming demographic cliff. At Iowa, we have an opportunity to lead by being proactive rather than reactive, said UI Executive Vice President and Provost Kevin Kregel in the release. Instead of waiting for challenges to dictate our choices, we are creating structures and strategies that position us for continued success. Close to 100 UI employees, including faculty, staff and leadership, are being placed into teams with the goals of either developing plans for increasing revenue or identifying administrative efficiencies, the release stated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Each team will focus on a different aspect of campus and university functions, according to the reSPARC website, ranging from academics to financial operations, student enrollment and retention, philanthropy, information technology and more. Teams will bring their ideas to initiative leaders before moving to the university president and provost, who have the final say on if and how plans will be implemented. The website stated there is are no plans for budget cuts or layoffs included in the reSPARC initiative, as it is being implemented as a proactive plan rather than a response to budget problems. UI President Barbara Wilson said in the release that collaboration is a strength of the UI community, and this new initiative will allow people across more than 30 departments to generate ideas together to ensure a strong present and thriving future. Our goal is to create a pipeline of actionable, well-vetted ideas that will have a real impact, Wilson said in the release. This is not about quick fixesits about building a foundation for sustained growth and excellence. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE Thursdays Top Stories Thursdays Five Facts [1] VIDEO: Officers investigate shooting on UNM campus that left 14-year-old dead New body camera video is giving more insight into how the University of New Mexico Police Department responded to an on-campus shooting last month that left 14-year-old Michael LaMotte dead. Investigators said four teens were playing video games in a dorm room when 18-year-old John Fuentes is accused of opening fire. LaMotte was killed and a 19-year-old was injured. That injured victim was taken to the hospital by another teen in the room. Fuentes was arrested later that day and is facing a number of charges, including murder. [2] Governor declares emergency in Espanola and Rio Arriba County Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has declared a state of emergency in Rio Arriba County, Espanola, and the surrounding pueblos due to increases in crime. In a news release, officials said police calls in Espanola and the area have more than doubled in the last two years, and police calls to businesses have quadrupled. The executive order provides up to $750,000 in emergency funding for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to coordinate a response. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [3] Spotty rain & hotter temperatures before storms return Another round of isolated showers and storms will return Thursday afternoon as high pressure moves right over northern New Mexico. This will also bring the hottest weather of the week, with a few places reaching near-record high temperatures. By Friday afternoon, a traditional monsoon pattern sets up as high pressure moves to the east of New Mexico drawing up a surge of monsoon moisture from the south. [4] Man who orchestrated shootings at elected officials homes sentenced A federal judge sentenced Solomon Pena to 80 years in prison. Pena was a Republican candidate who lost his race for a seat in the New Mexico House of Representatives. Pena accused Democrats of rigging the election against him and orchestrated four shootings at elected officials homes. The attacks took place in December 2022 and January 2023 at the residences of four elected officials total: Bernalillo County Commissioners Adrian Barboa and Debbie OMalley, as well as House Speaker Javier Martinez, and State Senator Linda Lopez. [5] Albuquerque shelter shares story of emaciated dog recovery After coming to Albuquerques eastside shelter, emaciated and with an injured leg, one dog is ready to find a new home. In July, Beau was severely underweight with overgrown nails and a leg fracture that didnt heal properly. Animal welfare says Beau is now ready to be adopted, you can find him at the eastside shelter. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos. A Saratoga County man is facing federal charges for allegedly terrorizing the grieving family of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson just hours after the healthcare executive was gunned down in midtown Manhattan late last year. Shane Daley, 40, of Galway, New York, was arrested Wednesday and charged with cyberstalking after federal prosecutors say he sent harassing and threatening voicemail messages to a family member of Thompson. Between Dec. 4-7, 2024, and beginning just hours after Thompsons murder, Daley allegedly placed multiple calls to a work phone line used by a member of Thompsons family. In a series of voicemail messages, Daley used threatening and harassing language that focused on Thompsons killing, expressed satisfaction over the manner of his death and declared that the victim and Thompsons children "deserved to meet the same violent end," according to a criminal complaint unsealed Wednesday. Luigi Mangione Defense Shared Same Records They Claimed Constituted Privacy Violation: Prosecutors Slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's family was allegedly harassed in the hours after his murder by Shane Daley of Galway, New York. "Brian Thompson was gunned down in midtown Manhattan," said acting U.S. 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." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton said, "As alleged, Daley threatened and harassed a grieving family in the immediate aftermath of a loved ones murder. These selfish, harmful and callous actions undermine public safety and will not be tolerated. This office, together with our law enforcement partners, will pursue and prosecute those who seek to intimidate victims and their families." "Shane Daley allegedly repeatedly harassed the grieving family of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare gunned down in New York City. The recurrent calls and messages in the days following Brian Thompsons murder were more than callous and cold-hearted harassment. They were threatening and terrified a family already suffering following the violent death of their loved one," said Christopher G. Raia, assistant director in charge of the FBIs New York Office. Federal Judge Grants Mangione Access To Laptop In Jail Ahead Of Murder Trial Supporters of Luigi Mangione gather outside federal court in Manhattan April 25, 2025. The 26-year-old is facing murder charges for the alleged assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. If convicted, Daley faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to three years. Daley is scheduled to be arraigned at 2 p.m. Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart in Albany. Thompson, who had served as CEO of UnitedHealthcare since 2021, was fatally shot in early December 2024. Read On The Fox News App Supporters of Luigi Mangione gather outside federal court in Manhattan, April 25, 2025. The 26-year-old is facing murder charges in the alleged assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Authorities have identified Luigi Mangione as the suspect in the homicide, and he has pleaded not guilty. Daley is not accused of any involvement in Thompson's killing, only of harassing a family member afterward. Original article source: Upstate New York man charged with cyberstalking family of slain UnitedHealthcare CEO Previous blood drive coverage above. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Miami Valley blood supply is in jeopardy. There is a critical need for both O+ and B+ blood donors. The Versiti Blood Center is requesting that all eligible people donate as soon as possible. There have been multiple patient traumas, including major car crashes and rare heart surgeries, this week, the second week of August. Save lives, donate blood this August; free A1C screening and gift card Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For context, a single person in a major car crash can need to have 100 units of blood. This amount alone can deplete a hospitals entire blood supply, which puts other patients at high risk. Versiti supplies to 32 hospitals around Dayton, many of which have major trauma centers. Officials said they need at least 350 units of blood daily to keep the blood supply stable. When hospitals run out of blood, critical treatments are delayed, surgeries are postponed, and lives are at risk, said Tracy Morgan, Vice President for Donor Services at Versiti. Your donation ensures that doesnt happen and may end up helping someone in your community. Darke County Fair may end 100-year no-alcohol tradition; election soon Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To encourage people to donate, anyone who does so at the Versiti Blood Center at 349 S. Main Street or at a mobile drive will be entered into a sweepstakes for two Bengals 2025 Season Passes. This will run until Sunday, Aug. 31. If you donate between Monday, Aug. 18, through Sunday, Aug. 24 will get a $25 e-gift card if you add the code word SUMMER to your appointment notes. August is also one of the slowest months for blood donations as people are vacationing and heading back to college or school, wrote Versiti. That decrease in donor activity has only made the blood shortage situation even worse. To register to donate online or find a blood drive nearby you, click here or call 937-461-3220. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. 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 Higgins, a guided missile destroyer, and 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Two Chinese military vessels collide in South China Sea 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, Philippines, contributed to this report. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The federal government does not have to continue making foreign aid payments, a US appeals court has ruled in a major victory for President Donald Trump. The ruling reverses a lower court judgment that said the Trump administration had to restore billions of dollars in foreign aid that had already been approved by Congress. On his first day back at the White House in January, Trump imposed a 90-day pause on all foreign assistance. International aid groups who relied heavily on government grants sued to challenge Trump's order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Among the funding cuts are nearly $4 billion (2.95b) for global health programmes through September. More than $6 billion for HIV and AIDS programmes, which Congress had approved through 2028, can be axed, as well, under the decision. Two out of the three judges on the appeals court panel agreed the plaintiffs in the case, the aid groups, did not have standing to bring the lawsuit, and so the funding cuts could continue. The international aid groups sued the administration in February. In March a district judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration's funding freeze, saying it was done unlawfully because the funds were allocated by Congress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Since he returned to office, Trump has slashed foreign aid, largely shuttering US Agency for International Development (USAID), the main foreign aid agency, because he found its spending "wasteful". More than 80% of all the agency's programmes were cancelled as of March, and on 1 July the remainder were taken over by the State Department as USAID officially closed its doors. Former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama condemned shutting down the agency and humanitarian organisations around the world have criticised Trump's funding cuts as both drastic and deadly. They could cause more than 14 million additional deaths by 2030, according to a warning published by researchers in the highly esteemed Lancet medical journal earlier this year. By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington looked forward to exploring cooperation with Pakistan on critical minerals and hydrocarbons, with his comments coming in a statement issued by the State Department on Pakistan's Independence Day. WHY IT'S IMPORTANT Washington and Islamabad hailed a trade deal last month, which Pakistan said would result in lower tariffs and increased investment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pakistan's Commerce Minister Jam Kamal has said Islamabad will offer U.S. businesses opportunities to invest in mining projects primarily in the southwestern Balochistan province through joint ventures with local companies, providing concessions such as lease grants. The province is home to key mining projects, including Reko Diq, run by mining firm Barrick Gold and believed to be one of the world's largest gold and copper mines. KEY QUOTES "We look forward to exploring new areas of economic cooperation, including critical minerals and hydrocarbons, and fostering dynamic business partnerships," Rubio said late on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The United States deeply appreciates Pakistan's engagement on counterterrorism and trade." CONTEXT Before President Donald Trump's administration, Islamabad's relationship with Washington had cooled in recent years, as the U.S. drew closer to Pakistan's traditional adversary India to counter China's rise, among other factors. Washington also resented Islamabad over Afghanistan, especially under former President Joe Biden's administration, which oversaw a chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and the takeover of the country by the Taliban insurgency that Washington accused Islamabad of backing. Pakistan denied the charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In recent months, Washington's ties with Islamabad have improved. Trump took credit for a ceasefire between India and Pakistan after the Asian neighbors engaged in hostilities in May following an April attack in India-administered Kashmir. Pakistan praised Trump while India maintained that New Delhi and Islamabad should resolve their issues directly without outside involvement. COUNTERTERRORISM TALKS The U.S. and Pakistan held the latest round of counterterrorism talks in Islamabad on Tuesday. Washington has designated separatist militant group Balochistan Liberation Army as a "foreign terrorist organization." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The US-Pakistan counterterrorism dialogue joint statement is one of the most positive and effusive I've seen from these two countries on CT for quite a few years," Michael Kugelman, a Washington-based South Asia analyst and writer for Foreign Policy magazine, said. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Saad Sayeed) An American fugitive who faked his own death and moved to Britain to avoid rape charges has now been convicted of sexual assault in the United States. Nicholas Rossi, also known as Nicholas Alahverdia, was deported from Scotland to Utah last year to face charges of sexual assault against two women after an international manhunt. Rossi, 38, originally from Rhode Island, had insisted to prosecutors that he is Arthur Knight a disabled urbane English gentleman who had been framed for the crimes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was arrested in Glasgow in 2019 while receiving treatment for Covid-19 after hospital staff recognised his distinctive tattoos from an Interpol red notice. Jurors, at the conclusion of a three-day-long trial at Salt Lake County Court, found the 38-year-old guilty on Wednesday of sexually assaulting his former fiancee. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. Nicholas Rossi in Glasgow, March 2022 - Stuart Nicol Rossi will be sentenced on Oct 20 and is expected to stand trial in September for the second rape charge in Utah County, which is being tried separately. Prosecutors say Rossi had fabricated an obituary claiming he had been cremated and his ashes scattered at sea following a quick demise from non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then fled across the Atlantic to allegedly evade arrest on fraud and the sexual assault investigations. Sim Gill, the district attorney at Salt Lake County, said: We are grateful to the survivor in this case for her willingness to come forward, years after this attack took place. We appreciate her patience as we worked to bring the defendant back to Salt Lake County so that this trial could take place and she could get justice. It took courage and bravery to take the stand and confront her attacker to hold him accountable. Throughout the trial, prosecutors painted a picture of an intelligent man who used his charm to take advantage of a vulnerable young woman. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim had been living with her parents and recovering from a traumatic brain injury when she responded to an advertisement Rossi posted on the classified ads website, Craigslist. The tattoos Interpol had on file for Rossi matched those of Arthur Knight - UNPIXS Within the space of two weeks, the pair were engaged. The woman, whose anonymity is protected under law, told jurors how she was asked to pay for their dates, cover Rossis car repairs, lend him 730 so he would not be evicted from his apartment and take on debt to buy their engagement rings. He grew hostile soon after their engagement and raped her in his bedroom one night in 2008 after she drove him home, she testified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The woman said dismissive comments from her parents had convinced her not to go to the police at the time. She came forward a decade later after she saw him in the news and learned he was accused of another rape from the same year. Rossi is accused of attacking the second woman at his apartment in Orem in September 2008 after she came over to collect money she said he stole from her to buy a computer. When police initially interviewed Rossi he claimed she had raped him and threatened to have him killed. Rossi has denied all the charges. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. By Steve Holland and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States has ordered the deployment of air and naval forces to the southern Caribbean Sea to address threats from Latin American drug cartels, three sources briefed on the decision told Reuters on Thursday. President Donald Trump has wanted to use the military to go after Latin American drug gangs that have been designated as global terrorist organizations. The Pentagon had been directed to prepare options. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One U.S. official, who was speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the additional commitment of military assets would include several P-8 spy planes, at least one warship and at least one attack submarine. The official said the process would be ongoing for several months and the plan was for them to operate in international airspace and international waters. The naval assets can be used to not just carry out intelligence and surveillance operations, but also as a launching pad for targeted strikes if a decision is made, the official added. Trump has made cracking down on drug cartels a central goal of his administration, part of a wider effort to limit migration and secure the U.S. southern border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump administration in recent months has already deployed at least two warships to help in border security efforts and drug trafficking. "This deployment is aimed at addressing threats to U.S. national security from specially designated narco-terrorist organizations in the region," one of the sources said. The Trump administration designated Mexico's Sinaloa Cartel and other drug gangs as well as Venezuelan criminal group Tren de Aragua as global terrorist organizations in February, as Trump stepped up immigration enforcement against alleged gang members. The U.S. military has already been increasing its airborne surveillance of Mexican drug cartels to collect intelligence to determine how to best counter their activities. The Trump administration in recent months has already deployed at least two warships to help in border security efforts and to counter drug trafficking. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump has previously offered to send U.S. troops to Mexico to help combat drug trafficking, an offer Mexico says it has refused. (Reporting By Steve Holland and Idrees Ali; Editing by Michael Perry and Alistair Bell) The U.S. Navy issued a strong statement repudiating Chinese claims regarding its military deterring a U.S. vessel near Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. A spokesperson for the Chinese militarys Southern Theater Command said in a statement on Wednesday that the U.S. Navy destroyer, Higgins, entered Chinas territorial waters unlawfully and without authorization from the Chinese government, according to several news outlets. The command claimed it drove away Higgins, as its alleged actions violated Chinas security and undermined peace, reports said. The U.S. Navy unequivocally denied the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US commander says China has failed to coerce rivals in South China Sea Chinas statement about this mission is false, said Cmdr. Megan Greene, spokesperson for the U.S. 7th Fleet. USS Higgins (DDG 76) conducted this FONOP [freedom of navigation operations] in accordance with international law and then continued on to conduct normal operations. China, Taiwan and the Philippines all claim ownership of Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, with Taiwan and China requiring notification from a vessel conducting an innocent passage through the area, the statement said. But such a requirement violates international law and is not required according to the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention, which says all ships and warships are allowed to enjoy the right of innocent passage through a territorial sea, Green said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unlawful requirement threatens the freedom of the seas, according to the 7th Fleet statement. The United States is defending its right to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, as USS Higgins did here, Greene said. Nothing China says otherwise will deter us. The contested encounter came a day after two Chinese military vessels crashed into each other after pursuing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel 10.5 miles east of Scarborough Shoal. A China Coast Guard vessel and Peoples Liberation Army Navy ship collided after the Philippine Coast Guard deployed to the area for patrol. The Philippines Department of National Defense released a statement on X denouncing Chinese military behavior as atrocious and inane. The National Assembly Defence Committee has warned that senior officials from the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) will have to be declared hostile witnesses after they skipped a scheduled appearance in Parliament to respond to questions over alleged crimes committed by their soldiers in the country. The Defence Committee had summoned BATUK representatives alongside Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya. However, only Tuya and her principal secretary, Patrick Mariru, attended the session. CS Tuya told lawmakers she could not account for the BATUK officials absence, saying her ministry had fulfilled its role through the Foreign Affairs docket. Committee chair Nelson Koech said the officials would get another chance to appear but warned they risk being declared hostile witnesses if they continued to ignore summons. There are children born out of illegal relationships with British soldiers. This House was reluctant to pass the Defence Cooperation Agreement, so in the eyes of this committee, BATUK are hostile witnesses, Koech said. The term hostile witness refers to an individual or entity that refuses to cooperate with a parliamentary committee by failing to provide evidence during an investigation. In such cases, the committee can order their arrest and compel them to appear, or impose a fine. During the session, several Members voiced strong concern over BATUKs continued failure to appear. Yusuf Hassan condemned the absence, saying it was unacceptable for a foreign government to ignore a matter directly impacting Kenyan citizens. It is unfortunate that a foreign government has declined to appear before this Committee on a matter that directly affects Kenyan citizens. You cannot come to a country and shield alleged perpetrators of serious crimes. Memusi Kanchory reminded the House that they had personally visited Laikipia and Samburu to hear residents grievances, adding that BATUKs repeated no-shows demonstrated clear contempt for the Committee and Parliament. We have travelled to Laikipia and Samburu to listen to the people. The repeated failure by BATUK to appear before us is a sign of contempt for this Committee and Parliament, Kanchory observed. Joshua Kandie stressed that Kenya is a sovereign nation and insisted that all partners must respect its people and institutions. BATUK, which operates a training base in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, is currently under investigation for alleged corruption, fraud, torture, mistreatment, abuse of power, and killings linked to its soldiers. The most publicized among these is the 2012 rape and murder of Agnes Wanjiru, who was seen at a nightclub in Nanyuki for the last time with a group of British soldiers. The 21-year-old was raped and her body was discovered in a septic tank at a hotel two months after she went missing. The United States offered a $10 million reward on Thursday for information leading to the arrest of Juan Jose Farias Alvarez, head of the Mexican drug trafficking group Carteles Unidos. Farias Alvarez, nicknamed "El Abuelo," or the grandfather, was one of five high-ranking members of Carteles Unidos -- the United Cartels in English -- whose criminal indictments were unsealed by the Justice Department on Thursday. "Today's charges are designed to dismantle the United Cartels and bring their leaders to justice for unleashing death and destruction on American citizens," Attorney General Pamela Bondi said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US Treasury Department simultaneously announced it was imposing sanctions on members of the United Cartels and another group known as Los Viagras. "Treasury, alongside our partners in US law enforcement, will continue to target every effort by the cartels to generate revenue for their violent, criminal schemes," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. The State Department designated the Michoacan-based United Cartels and other drug trafficking groups as foreign terrorist organizations in February. Aside from Farias Alvarez, rewards of $5 million each were announced for Nicolas Sierra Santana, known as "El Gordo," and Alfonso Fernandez Magallon, known as "Poncho," and $3 million each for Luis Enrique Barragan Chavez, known as "Wicho," and Edgar Orozco Cabadas, known as "El Kamoni." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Justice Department, the United Cartels are a major supplier of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine to the United States. "Profits from US drug sales are allegedly used to acquire heavy weaponry, hire mercenaries, bribe local officials, and fund lavish lifestyles for cartel leaders," it said. The announcement comes two days after Mexico transferred 26 wanted fugitives to the United States, including several high-ranking members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel. The transfer was the second since Republican Donald Trump returned to the White House in January. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In late February, Mexico sent 29 accused drug traffickers to the United States, including Rafael Caro Quintero, who was accused of kidnapping and killing US drug enforcement special agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena in 1985. cl/aha MANILA, Philippines (AP) The United States is discussing the possible deployment of more missile launchers to the Philippines to strengthen deterrence against aggression in the disputed South China Sea and other Asian security hotspots, but no final decision has been reached by both sides, Manilas ambassador to Washington said Thursday. The U.S. military delivered a mid-range missile system called the Typhon, a land-based weapon that can fire the Standard Missile-6 and the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile, to the northern Philippines as part of joint combat exercises in April last year. That was followed by the transport by the U.S. military of an anti-ship missile launcher in April this year to the northernmost Philippine province of Batanes, just a sea border away from Taiwan. Beijing strongly protested the installation of the U.S. missile systems, saying they were aimed at containing Chinas rise and warning that these would threaten regional stability. China has asked the Philippines to withdraw the missile launchers from its territory, but officials led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had rejected the demand. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said without elaborating that the possible deployment by the U.S. of more Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System or NMESIS missile launchers "was being discussed for consideration by both sides. The anti-ship missile systems could be installed along Philippine coastal regions facing the South China Sea and outlying regions to beef up deterrence against aggression, he said. This is part of the strong U.S. and Philippines defense partnership, Romualdez told The Associated Press. Romualdez spoke on the sidelines of a trade and investment conference in Manila, where he and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro encouraged major U.S. companies to invest in a wide array of industries from energy and telecommunications to infrastructure and navy shipbuilding in the Philippines, the oldest treaty ally of the U.S. in Asia. When U.S. companies invest here, its not just about returns on capital its about returns on alliance, Romualdez told U.S. business executives at the conference. A stronger Philippine economy means a more capable and reliable defense partner for the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At a time when America is diversifying supply chains and rethinking global strategy, we are a natural choice and a strategic necessity, Romualdez said. I ask you to carry this message to the Trump administration: `Every U.S. dollar invested in the Philippines strengthens Americas position in the Indo-Pacific. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth flew to Manila in March in his first visit to Asia and said the Trump administration would work with allies to ramp up deterrence against threats across the world, including Chinas increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea. The U.S. was not gearing up for war, Hegseth said then, but underscored that peace would be won through strength. China claims virtually the entire South China Sea. The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims to the resource-rich and busy waters, but confrontations have spiked between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and naval forces in recent years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Wednesday, the U.S. briefly deployed two warships in what it called a freedom of navigation operation off the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea where two Chinese navy and coast guard ships collided earlier in the week while trying to drive away a smaller Philippine coast guard vessel. The high-seas accident sparked alarm among Asian and Western countries. Freedom of navigation is essential for the trillions of dollars worth of commerce that passes through these waters, the U.S. ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay Carlson, told reporters on the sidelines of the Manila investment conference. Its about commerce. Its about lives and livelihoods. By Sarah Morland MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -The U.S. FBI said it had on Wednesday returned to Mexico a stolen manuscript dating back five centuries to the Spanish conquest and signed by its leading military commander, Hernan Cortes. Special Agent Jessica Dittmer, a member of the FBI's Art Crime Team in New York, said the document contains a detailed accounting of the logistics related to Cortes' journey to what eventually became New Spain - a territory that stretched from Central America to modern-day Washington state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is an original manuscript page that was actually signed by Hernan Cortes," she said in a statement. "Pieces like this are considered protected cultural property and represent valuable moments in Mexico's history." Cortes landed in Mexico with a small army in 1519, when he formed alliances with local groups that opposed the Aztec empire, which helped him capture the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan - modern-day Mexico City - just two years later. The document is dated February 20, 1527, just days before one of Cortes' top lieutenants was appointed co-governor of the conquered territory. It was a key year for the formation of royal and religious institutions that would rule over the indigenous peoples of Mexico until its 1810 war of independence. The manuscript was initially stored in Mexico's national archives, but archivists preserving the documents on film in 1993 found that 15 pages had gone missing. Based on its wax numbering system, the FBI said the document was likely stolen between 1985 and 1993. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This marks the second repatriation of a Cortes manuscript to Mexico, after a letter from April 1527 authorizing the purchase of rose sugar was returned in 2023. No one will face prosecution in connection with the theft, Dittmer said, because investigators assessed the manuscript had changed hands several times since it disappeared. The U.S. antiques market is valued in the tens of billions of dollars, largely concentrated in New York auction houses. Mexico has for decades sought the repatriation of cultural artifacts, including a delicate headdress made of iridescent quetzal feathers thought to have belonged to Aztec Emperor Moctezuma II, currently housed in an Austrian museum. (Reporting by Sarah Morland; Editing by Leslie Adler) The United States has announced it is revoking the visas of Brazilian, African and Caribbean officials over their ties to Cubas programme that sends doctors abroad, which Washington has described as forced labour. The US named two Brazilian Ministry of Health officials, Mozart Julio Tabosa Sales and Alberto Kleiman, who have had their visas revoked for working on Brazils Mais Medicos, or More Doctors programme, which was created in 2013. In a statement on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said sanctions were imposed on officials involved in abetting the Cuban regimes coercive labour export scheme, which he claimed enriches the corrupt Cuban regime and deprives the Cuban people of essential medical care. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Department of State took steps to revoke visas and impose visa restrictions on several Brazilian government officials, former Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) officials, and their family members for their complicity with the Cuban regimes labour export scheme in the Mais Medicos programme, Rubio said. In an earlier statement, Rubio also announced visa restrictions for African officials, without specifying the countries involved, as well as the Caribbean country Grenada, for the same reasons. The Cuban government has called Washingtons efforts to stop its medical missions a cynical excuse to go after its foreign currency earnings. Cubas deputy director of US affairs, Johana Tablada, said its medical cooperation will continue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement [Rubios] priorities speak volumes: financing Israel genocide on Palestine, torturing Cuba, going after health care services for those who need them most, Tablada wrote on X. An image of late revolutionary hero Ernesto Che Guevara is displayed during a farewell ceremony of Cuban doctors heading to Turkiye to assist in earthquake relief, in Havana, Cuba, in February 2023 [Alexandre Meneghini/Reuters] Cubas international missions are sold to third countries and serve as a main source of foreign currency for the economically isolated nation, which has been subject to decades-long crippling sanctions by the US. Havanas international medical outreach goes back to the years following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, as Fidel Castros communist government provided a free or low-cost medical programme to developing nations as an act of international solidarity. It is estimated that Havana has sent between 135,000 and 400,000 Cuban doctors abroad in total over the past five decades. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Brazilian Minister of Health Alexandre Padilha said his government would not bow to what he called unreasonable attacks on Mais Medicos. Cubas contract in the programme was terminated in 2018 after then-President-elect Jair Bolsonaro questioned the terms of the agreement and Cuban doctors qualifications. Washington is already engaged in a heated diplomatic row with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas government after imposing sanctions on Brazilian officials involved in Bolsonaros ongoing trial over his alleged coup plot in 2022. Cubas healthcare system is public and meant to be universally accessible. But decades of sanctions and a downturn in tourism due to Trumps travel ban mean the one-party state is no longer medically self-sufficient. Since returning to the White House, the Trump administration has resumed its maximum pressure campaign against Cuba that typified his first term. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last year, the island nation of 9.7 million people could not afford the $300m needed to import raw materials to produce hundreds of critical medicines. In July, Trump imposed sanctions against Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces Alvaro Lopez Miera, and Minister of the Interior Lazaro Alberto Alvarez Casas for their role in the Cuban regimes brutality toward the Cuban people. Earlier, the Trump administration also signalled its intention to tighten visa restrictions on Cuban and foreign officials linked to Havanas medical missions around the globe. Rubio described the medical programme as one where medical professionals are rented by other countries at high prices, but most of the revenue is kept by the Cuban authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 1999, after Hugo Chavezs Bolivarian revolution in Venezuela, Cuba sent medical staff and educators to the country. In return, Cuba bought Venezuelan oil at below-market prices, developing the idea of Havana exporting medical professionals as a source of revenue. Some 30,000 Cuban medical workers were sent to Venezuela in the first 10 years of the Oil for Doctors programme. Cuba later received hard currency to set up permanent medical missions in countries including South Africa, Brazil, Ecuador and Qatar. By Jody Godoy (Reuters) -Two Republican U.S. senators called for a congressional investigation into Meta Platforms on Thursday after Reuters exclusively reported on an internal policy document that permitted the companys chatbots to engage a child in conversations that are romantic or sensual. Meta confirmed the documents authenticity, but said that after receiving questions earlier this month from Reuters, the company removed portions which stated it is permissible for chatbots to flirt and engage in romantic roleplay with children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So, only after Meta got CAUGHT did it retract portions of its company doc," Senator Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri, said in a post on social media site X. "This is grounds for an immediate congressional investigation," Hawley said. A spokesperson for Senator Marsha Blackburn, a Republican from Tennessee, said she supports an investigation into the social media company. A spokesperson for Meta reiterated the company's earlier statement that "the examples and notes in question were and are erroneous and inconsistent with our policies, and have been removed. The spokesperson declined to comment on the senators' call for an investigation. Blackburn also added that the report illustrates the need to pass reforms to better protect children online, such as the Kids Online Safety Act, a bill she co-sponsored which the Senate passed last year but which failed in the U.S. House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to protecting precious children online, Meta has failed miserably by every possible measure. Even worse, the company has turned a blind eye to the devastating consequences of how its platforms are designed," Blackburn said. KOSA would make explicit a "duty of care" that social media companies have when it comes to minors using their products, focusing on design of the platforms and regulation of the companies. The standards described in the Meta document dont necessarily reflect ideal or even preferable generative AI outputs, the document states. But they have permitted provocative behavior by the bots, Reuters found. In one example, the document notes that it would be acceptable for a bot to tell a shirtless eight-year-old that every inch of you is a masterpiece a treasure I cherish deeply. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, called the policies "deeply disturbing and wrong," adding that Section 230, a law that shields internet companies from liability for the content posted to their platforms, should not protect companies' generative AI chatbots. "Meta and Zuckerberg should be held fully responsible for any harm these bots cause, he said. Senator Peter Welch, a Democrat of Vermont, said the report "shows how critical safeguards are for AI especially when the health and safety of kids is at risk." The Senate voted 99-1 in July to remove a provision in President Donald Trump's sweeping tax-cut and spending bill that would have effectively barred states from passing AI regulation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the absence of federal laws regulating AI, states have passed legislation, including bans on using the technology to create child sexual abuse material. (Reporting by Jody Godoy in New York; Additional Reporting by Alexandra Alper in Washington; Editing by Aurora Ellis) Editor's Note: This article has been updated with more details about Macron's comments and the joint statement from European and U.K. leaders. The United States is prepared to provide Ukraine with security guarantees once peace is established, but NATO membership is not on the table as a possible guarantee, French President Emmanuel Macron said Aug. 13. Macron's remarks followed a video call with U.S. President Donald Trump, President Volodymyr Zelensky, and several European leaders. The online talks come just two days before Trump is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Aug. 15. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking to reporters after the call, Macron relayed Trump's assurances that Washington was ready to support European security after the war but ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine. "President Trump expressed this clearly in these terms," Macron told the press. "He even said things that are very important to me: the fact that NATO should not be part of these security guarantees, which we know is a key point for the Russian side, but that the United States and all the allies that are willing should be part of them." Ukrainian and European leaders have long urged the U.S. to back robust security guarantees for Kyiv in the event of a ceasefire agreement with Russia. The Trump administration has thus far been hesitant to commit to such guarantees, a stance that initially derailed the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal and has injected uncertainty into the plans of the so-called "coalition of the willing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Macron hailed Washington's readiness to commit to security guarantees as a positive, despite Trump's opposition to Ukraine's NATO membership. Zelensky has repeatedly said that NATO accession is the best possible security guarantee for postwar Ukraine. Kyiv officially applied for NATO membership in September 2022 after Russia illegally declared the annexation of four Ukrainian oblasts. Russian propaganda frequently and falsely cites NATO expansion and Ukraine's NATO ambitions as a justification for the full-scale invasion. Trump himself has echoed these narratives, claiming former President Joe Biden's support for Ukraine's NATO aspirations provoked the war. In a joint statement issued after the Aug. 13 call, Macron, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said Russia should not hold veto power over Ukraine's accession to the Alliance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "No limitations should be placed on Ukraine's armed forces or on its cooperation with third countries. Russia could not have a veto against Ukraines pathway to EU and NATO," the statement of the coalition of the willing read. The coalition also reaffirmed readiness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine, "including through plans by those willing to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased." Macron told reporters that urging Putin to commit to a ceasefire was a top priority for Trump going into the Alaska summit, and that Trump agreed that any discussions about territory required Zelensky's participation. "(T)erritorial issues that fall under Ukraine's jurisdiction cannot be negotiated and will only be negotiated by the Ukrainian president," Macron said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This is the position we support, and it was very clearly expressed by President Trump." Kyiv and its European allies convened the conversation with Trump to discuss the war and to express concern about the upcoming meeting, which excludes Ukraine. Leaders from Finland, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Poland, the European Union, and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte attended the video call. A ceasefire in Ukraine was a major topic of discussion: "President Trump said this is one of his priorities in conversation with President Putin," Zelensky told reporters during a joint press conference with Merz. According to Merz, European leaders are doing everything they can to ensure the Trump-Putin summit moves "in the right direction," amid fears that Ukraine may be sold out by Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: As Putin, Trump debate Ukraines future borders, Donetsk Oblast residents are split on what they would accept to end the war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. By Sarah N. Lynch and Nate Raymond WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. government is taking unspecified "special measures" to protect people potentially exposed in a recent hack of court records, a top U.S. Department of Justice official said on Thursday. The hack of the federal judiciary's filing systems has raised concerns across the judiciary since it was disclosed last month, in part because of reports that data about confidential informants and other sealed case files may have been accessed. Although details of the intrusion - or intrusions - have yet to be made public, a person familiar with the matter said unspecified foreign actors had been identified as the culprits. The New York Times reported on Tuesday that investigators believed Russia was at least partly responsible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We're aware of the issue," Acting Assistant Attorney General Matt Galeotti told reporters at a briefing. "There's different filing measures that are being put in place. We're also taking other different technical steps." He added that in cases involving individuals who were possibly "subject to some sort of release of information," the department is "taking special measures in those cases." Galeotti did not elaborate on the nature of those measures, and the DOJ and the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts did not immediately answer questions about his comments. The person familiar with the matter said chief judges throughout the country were notified in mid-July that at least eight federal court districts had been targeted by the hackers. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch in Washington and Nate Raymond in Boston. Writing by Raphael Satter.Editing by Rod Nickel) SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) Ethan Guo, an American pilot and influencer who has been trapped in Antarctica for several weeks, maintained Wednesday that he is innocent of the accusations against him, after being charged by Chilean authorities with submitting a false flight plan to reach the White Continent. Guo was charged on June 29 with handing false information to ground control and landing without authorization, but on Monday a judge dropped the charges as part of an agreement with his lawyers and Chiles prosecutors. It requires the teen to give a $30,000 donation to a childrens cancer foundation within 30 days to avoid a trial. He must also leave the country as soon as conditions allow and is prohibited from reentering Chilean territory for three years. According to Guo's defense, the teen pilot was granted authorizations to deviate his initial route from Punta Arenas, southern Chile, to Ushuaia, Argentina and land at Teniente Marsh base in Chilean Antarctica due to "weather and technical circumstances." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My clients actions are protected by a presumption of legality arising from the authorizations expressly granted by various DGAC ( Directorate General of Civil Aviation) officials, his lawyer Jaime Barrientos said in documents handed to the court and shared with The Associated Press. According to Barrientos, evidence was presented that Mr. Guo informed the DGAC as soon as possible of the change to the filed flight plan, receiving express authorization to land at said aerodrome." Guo, who turned 20 during his stay in Antarctica in July and has maintained his innocence, said in a statement sent to AP that during his original journey he encountered instrument failures and heavy, unreported icing conditions which created an imminent risk of a crash. Due to these cascading failures, Mr. Guo requested and received explicit, direct permission to land at the Marsh base from a high ranking DGAC official via WhatsApp, an authorization that was subsequently confirmed by the bases air traffic controller," it said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The influencer added that the court's ruling last Monday was a direct result of the prosecutors refusal to acknowledge this clear evidence. The prosecutor's office has maintained in several interviews with local media that Guo has handed false information to the respective authority and, by doing so, put at risk the safety of global air traffic. What the background indicates is that he always had the will and the knowledge that he wanted to reach Antarctica at all costs, putting at risk not only his life, but also the safety of global air traffic, prosecutor Cristian Crisosto told local Radio Bio Bio in an interview Wednesday. Guo made headlines last year when he began a trip in an attempt to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents and at the same time collect donations for research into childhood cancer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But for the past six weeks, he has stayed at the Chilean Air Force base where he landed in June. He was not forced to stay there, only to remain in Chilean territory, but because of the severe winter in that part of the southern hemisphere, no flights were available. He has also been unable to fly his small plane, whose future remains uncertain. Crisosto said that the plane would probably have difficulty leaving Antarctica because it does not meet the necessary regulations. That plane could leave Antarctica in pieces. But I dont see it flying, he warned. An American pilot and influencer who was detained for landing on an island off the coast of Chile during a flight to raise funds for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital struck a deal that allows him to avoid a trial, Chilean media reported. Ethan Guo, 19, will be allowed to leave Chilean territory in Antarctica after being stuck there since June, as long as he makes a large donation to a Chilean charity and agrees not to return for three years. In September 2024, Guo took off from Memphis, beginning a globe-spanning journey to raise money for cancer research. Guo aimed to fly to all seven continents to raise $1 million for St. Jude, documenting the trip through social media. Antarctica was his last stop. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Chilean newspaper La Tercera, prosecutors said Guo was cleared to fly to Punta Arenas but not to continue on to King George Island, a territory off the coast of Antarctica Chile claims as its own. Guo landed on June 28 and was detained at the airport, CBS News reported. Ethan Guo, 18 of Milton is preparing to fly solo around the world. He has over 600 hours flying planes like his Cessna 182 at Norwood Airport on Friday April 26, 2024. Guo must make a $30,000 donation to the Nuestros Hijos Foundation, a Chilean organization created to assist children with cancer, according to La Tercera. He's also banned from entering the country for three years. Guo attempted the journey two years prior, but experienced a partial power failure on approach to the Memphis International Airport in September 2023. The American Lebanese Syrian Associated Charities, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude, said the fundraiser was not officially endorsed by the organization, but that they appreciated his support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We are grateful for supporters like Ethan who help ensure that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food because all a family should worry about is helping their child live," a spokesperson said. This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Teen pilot Ethan Guo raising money for St. Jude allowed to leave Chile The United States Treasury Department is temporarily suspending sanctions on Russian transactions required to organize upcoming peace negotiations between Moscow and Washington in Alaska, the department announced Aug. 13. U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin for talks in Alaska on Aug. 15. Their bilateral summit may be followed by additional talks involving Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The U.S. government will authorize certain transactions prohibited by current sanctions if those transactions are required to support the organization of U.S.-Russia talks in Alaska, according to a license issued by the U.S. Foreign Assets Control Office. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The authorization will expire on Aug. 20. The license applies to transactions sanctioned under the Russian Harmful Foreign Activities Sanctions Regulations (RuHSR) and the Ukraine-/Russia-Related Sanctions Regulations (URSR). It does not authorize the release of any properties blocked or frozen by those regulations. Trump is set to meet with Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, on Aug. 15, where the leaders will discuss a path towards ending Russia's war in Ukraine. The White House has described the meeting as a "listening exercise" that may not yield immediate results while also hailing the summit as a major breakthrough in the peace process. In a video call with President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders on Aug. 13, Trump reportedly said he would push Putin to agree to a ceasefire during the Alaska meeting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the Telegraph, Trump plans to present a package of economic proposals at the meeting in order to incentivize the Kremlin to accept a ceasefire. The package reportedly includes granting Russia access to Alaska's natural resources and lifting certain U.S. sanctions on Russia's aviation sector. Another proposal involves giving Moscow access to rare earth minerals in Ukrainian territories currently under Russian occupation. Read also: As Putin, Trump debate Ukraines future borders, Donetsk Oblast residents are split on what they would accept to end the war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. President William Rutos pick for Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), Duncan Oburu Ojwang, has declined the appointment, just days after his nomination reached Parliament for vetting. In a formal letter to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, Ojwang cited personal reasons and a potential conflict of interest for stepping down. His decision has forced the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee to suspend its scheduled vetting, with the appointing authority now tasked with finding a new nominee for the influential human rights watchdog. Addressing legislators on Tuesday, Speaker Wetangula confirmed he had received Ojwangs withdrawal letter. He instructed the committee to put all nomination proceedings on hold and requested the Clerk of the National Assembly to inform the appointing authority of the vacancy forthwith. Ojwang had been nominated on August 5, 2025, following a competitive recruitment process. He had been chosen among six shortlisted candidates who had emerged from a pool of 17 applicants. The acclaimed legal thinker and human rights campaigner, Ojwang served as Dean of the School of Law at Africa Nazarene University from 2017 to January 2023. He also taught law at the University of Nairobi, focusing on constitutional law, human rights, environmental law, and law and development. His impressive educational background includes a PhD in Law and Policy from the University of Arizona, an LL.M. in International Human Rights Law from Indiana University, and a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Illinois University School of Law. He also holds a bachelors degree in psychology from Indiana University. Beyond the academic world, Ojwang has made serious contributions to governance and diplomacy. He served as an African Union election observer, participated in the Tumaini peace mediation process in South Sudan, and was a technical team member of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO). However, his nomination sparked legal challenges. The Katiba Institute and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) argued that it was contrary to Article 250(II) of the Constitution, which forbids appointment of a chairperson and deputy chairperson of the same gender on a constitution commission. With current vice-chairperson Raymond Nyeris being male, the petitioners claimed Ojwangs appointment was unconstitutional. The High Court is scheduled to mention the case on September 17. Ojwangs exit now leaves the KNCHR chairperson position vacant, setting the stage for the government to restart the search for a new leader to champion Kenyas human rights agenda. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has warned that Washington could increase secondary tariffs on India. He said the decision would depend on the outcome of President Donald Trump's meeting with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday. "We've put secondary tariffs on Indians for buying Russian oil. And I could see, If things don't go well, then sanctions or secondary tariffs could go up," Bessent said in an interview to Bloomberg TV on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Earlier this month, Trump imposed a 25% penalty on India in addition to 25% tariffs for buying oil and weapons from Russia. The US has been trying to mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, and on Wednesday, Trump warned of "severe consequences" if Moscow did not agree to a peace deal. Trump and Putin are set to meet in Anchorage on Friday to discuss how to end the war in Ukraine. "President Trump is meeting with President Putin, and the Europeans are in the wings carping about how he should do it, what he should do. The Europeans need to join us in these sanctions. The Europeans need to be willing to put on these secondary sanctions," Bessent said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Delhi's increased imports of cheap Russian crude since the Ukraine war have strained India-US relations and disrupted ongoing trade talks with Washington. Russian oil made up 35% to 40% of India's oil imports in 2024 - up from 3% in 2021. Delhi has defended its purchases of Russian oil, arguing that as a major energy importer, it must buy the cheapest available crude to protect millions of poor Indians from rising costs. Bessent's comments come after he called India a "bit recalcitrant" on trade negotiations in an interview with Fox Business on Tuesday. Trump says his tariffs are part of his administration's plan to boost the US' economy and make global trade fairer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has repeatedly called India a tariff abuser and is keen to trim a $45bn (33bn) trade deficit with Asia's third largest economy. Trade negotiations between Delhi and Washington have been under way for several months, and are set to renew with US negotiators expected to arrive in India on 25 August. But experts say India's refusal to reduce duties on agriculture and dairy products has been a major thorn in the negotiations. Trump's new 50% tariff rate on India is set to come into effect on 27 August, which some experts have said is akin to an embargo on trade between the two countries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It makes India the most heavily taxed US trading partner in Asia and is expected to severely hamper its exports focused industries like textiles and jewellery, and could drag India's growth down by as much as half a percent. A US Navy guided-missile destroyer performed a Freedom of Navigation operation (FONOP) near disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea on Wednesday, just two days after two Chinese military vessels collided while chasing a Philippine Coast Guard ship in nearby waters. The presence of the US ship in the area prompted Chinas military to accuse the US Navy of violating its territorial sovereignty, but the US Navy said it had the right to be there. USS Higgins (DDG 76) asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the South China Sea near Scarborough Reef, consistent with international law, US Navy 7th Fleet spokesperson Lt. Sarah Merrill said in a statement to CNN. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement China, the Philippines and Taiwan all claim sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, which is about 140 miles (222 kilometers) west of the main Philippine island of Luzon and within the Philippines exclusive economic zone. But China has effectively controlled the uninhabited shoal since 2012 by maintaining an almost constant coast guard presence in nearby waters, according to the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative. China and Taiwan each require advance notification of passage within the territorial waters of the reef, in violation of international laws guaranteeing the right of innocent passage by foreign warships, Merrill said. The Philippines does not impose this requirement, she added. Merrill denied an earlier claim by Chinas Southern Theater Command that it organized its forces to track, monitor, warn and expel the US warship as it violated Chinas territorial sovereignty. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinas statement about this mission is false, Merrill said. 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 said. According to the Philippine Coast Guard, the USS Higgins wasnt the only US warship in the vicinity of Scarborough Shoal on Wednesday. The littoral combat ship USS Cincinnati was also nearby, spokesperson Jay Tarriela said in a statement on X. Merrill would only confirm to CNN that the Cincinnati was operating in the South China Sea. Wednesdays FONOP was the first near Scarborough Shoal in more than six years, according to Collin Koh, a research fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) in Singapore, who keeps a database of US Freedom of Navigation operations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It was also just the second FONOP in 2025, after one in the Spratly Islands in May. The US performed two FONOPs in the South China Sea in 2024 after executing five in 2023, according to Kohs database. China says such missions by the US threaten its sovereignty and peace and stability in the South China Sea. Tensions around Scarborough Shoal, home to rich fishing grounds, have been increasing as Beijing becomes more assertive in claiming of sovereignty over much of the South China Sea and Manila pushes back, embarking independent journalists on Philippine Coast Guard missions to document what it calls Chinese aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Wednesdays US Navy operation came two days after a Chinese navy guided-missile destroyer and coast guard ship collided near the shoal while chasing a Philippine Coast Guard vessel. The collision caused heavy damage to the bow of the China Coast Guard ship. In a state-run Global Times report late Wednesday, Chinese experts placed the blame for Mondays incident on the Philippines and, indirectly, its defense treaty ally, the US. The Philippine Coast Guard vessel made repeated dangerous maneuvers in front of the Chinese Coast Guard ship, the Global Times report said, without mentioning the presence of the Chinese destroyer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The media outlet reported that Chinese experts had said the Philippine ships maneuvers severely compromised the navigational safety of the Chinese vessel, and seriously violated the most basic principles and rules of maritime navigational safety. The report was accompanied by a 26-second video clip, which allegedly shows reckless action by the Philippine vessel, though did not show the moment of the collision between the Chinese ships. The full responsibility for the resulting damages lies with the Philippine side, and all losses should be entirely borne by the Philippine vessel that provoked and caused the incident at sea, the report said in possible reference to the collision, which China has not specifically admitted. Carl Schuster, a former US Navy captain, reviewed the Global Times video for CNN and said the Chinese ship, being the overtaking ship, would be responsible for signaling its intentions to the Philippine vessel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is no evidence they did so and the Philippine Coast Guard vessel is under no obligation to heave to, or give way, Schuster said. The Global Times article quoted Yang Xiao, an expert on maritime issues at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, who pointed the finger of blame at the US military for training its Philippine ally in gray-zone tactics, actions below the level of open warfare but employing more than diplomacy or negotiations. Yang said the tactics violate internationally accepted norms of maritime law enforcement and could lead to serious miscalculations and heightened risks of conflict at sea. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) After completing nine months of being deployed overseas, U.S. Navy sailors greeted their loved ones as the USS Sterett docked at Naval Base San Diego on Wednesday. Their reunion warmed hearts on the cool cloudy morning. Some were feeling overwhelmed with emotion. Im so excited, I love you Felicia. Welcome home! said Navy mom, Priscilla Sena. Others were struggling to find the words. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No words. Really amazing. Happy and relieved, added Shana Holton, another mother of a sailor. Holton came to greet her daughter, saying theyve never been apart for this long and shes incredibly thankful for this reunion. This is her second deployment. This is a lot longer than we expected be we are incredibly proud of her. I mean so proud of her, said Holton. Sinthia Colon flew into San Diego from Puerto Rico to welcome her son home, and describes the worry she felt throughout his deployment, especially while he was in the Middle East. I felt like I wasnt me all this time. I was somebody else, somewhere in space, figuring out how will things end? said Colon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now that the wait is over and her son is home safe, she says her heart has grown. Very big. My heart is bigger, said Colon. Though the separation and uncertainty is hard on families, the mission is significant. Anything that a guided missile destroyer can do in this Navy, weve done on this nine-month deployment, said USS Sterett Commanding Officer Kurt Albaugh. The USS Sterett sailed through waters off the coast of Asia and the Middle East. We were part of operation rough rider against the Houthi rebels, engaged in combat operations to degrade their capabilities, said Albaugh. Albaughs wife says even though military families face a number of challenges during deployment, the importance of the mission makes it all worth it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Knowing how critical the mission they were on, they were performing, it helps keep me focused and motivated every day, said Navy wife Mela Norman. Life goes on at home during deployment, including big moments like the birth of Navy Commander Brandon Moodys first son. Its amazing. Its just amazing, said Moody, holding his son, James, for the first time ever after stepping off the ship. I just hoped he wouldnt cry when I first got him, and he didnt, so thats a victory! he said. His wife, Jade Moody, added, It was challenging, but we missed him, and hes home now. A crowd of loved ones were thankful for their safe return and service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Were grateful to her and to all of the sailors and their families. So grateful, said Holton. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Just before midnight on Sept. 22, 2024, authorities say, mother of three Jennifer Gledhill showed up at the home of the man with whom she was having an affair and made a frightening confession. Two days earlier, she said, her husband, Utah National Guardsman Matthew Johnson, had angrily confronted her after learning that she was cheating on him. Gledhill described to her lover how, later that night after Johnson fell asleep in the couples bed, she shot her husband in the head with his 9-mm handgun, packed his body inside a vehicle rooftop storage container, loaded it into her minivan and then buried him in a shallow grave north of their home in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, according to prosecutors. KSLTV 5 When her lover later told her in a phone call that he was frightened by Gledhills confession, her response which he recorded was chilling: Wow, if you think I could even hurt a fly, she said. Like he just, he is, hes not a person. He wasnt a person anymore. He wasnt Matt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Not surprisingly, Gledhills lover couldnt shake the horror of what she told him. On Oct. 2, after the man gave police screenshots of texts and audio recordings of their phone calls, Gledhill, 42, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder of the death of her husband, 51, in the midst of their bitter divorce. His body has yet to be recovered. KUTV Matthew Johnson is not missing, Salt Lake County Deputy District Attorney Emily Paulos said during a Feb. 28, 2025, court hearing. Matthew Johnson was murdered by the defendant. Gledhill has pleaded not guilty. She is being held without bail in the Salt Lake County Jail, awaiting a murder trial set to begin in December 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exactly what led to the couples confrontation is a question with which friends of the couple who shared three children, now all under the age of 13 are still grappling. I thought she was nice, kind of a homebody, says Johnsons friend John Hash, who served with him in the Utah Guards 19th Special Forces Group. But Gledhill and Johnsons relationship became rocky in recent years, according to another friend of Johnsons. 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. Gledhill made numerous attempts including one just weeks before Johnsons death to obtain protective orders against her husband, who served in the U.S. Marines before joining the National Guard, but was unsuccessful. On one occasion, the court determined she was the instigator of the couples troubles, according to a probable cause affidavit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The stress took its toll on the devoted dad, says Johnsons friend, who describes how Gledhills erratic behavior so unnerved Johnson that he spent much of the past few weeks of his life sleeping at a National Guard facility out of concerns about his safety. In one of his last conversations with his longtime friend, retired Utah National Guardsman Kevin Thompson, Johnson had really come to the conclusion that [a divorce] needs to happen, and it is time to move on. For more on Jennifer Gledhill, subscribe now to PEOPLE, or pick up this week's issue, on newsstands Friday. Johnson never had a chance to move on. After Gledhills paramour alerted police to the possibility of a killing at the couples home, authorities claimed they found Johnsons blood on the carpet under the couples bed and evidence that a wall had been cleaned with bleach. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police also arrested Gledhills parents, Thomas, 71, and Rosalie, 68, on suspicion of obstruction of justice for allegedly helping her clean up the scene. David Buchan Meanwhile, more than 100 of Johnsons fellow soldiers have joined the search for his remains in an area where GPS data reportedly placed Gledhill after the alleged murder. Says Thompson: Were all combat veterans. Weve seen a lot. But we dont want to leave a friend behind, so its on your mind all the time. Read the original article on People Indiana University has sanctioned an outspoken professor at its Bloomington campus after finding an anonymous complaint about his classroom conduct had merit likely making him the first professor to be punished under Indiana's new intellectual diversity law enacted last year. However, Germanic studies professor Ben Robinson told IndyStar that he believes the university did not conduct an investigation to uphold its sanctions. And considering some odd circumstances in his case, he said, he's concerned the university is making an example out of him. "There's no reference to any sort of discovery process whatsoever," he said. "It was clearly a hastily and thoughtlessly written, anonymous complaint in a reporting system that had no consequences. ... It was elevated into an SEA 202 complaint." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement IU policy on reviewing such complaints states the university will conduct a investigation if a preliminary review found the complaint had merit. It's unclear if this step was taken before Robinson was sanctioned. The complaint lodged against Robinson is one of at least 14 grievances investigated in the state so far. It's unclear whether disciplinary action has been taken in most of those cases. Under Senate Enrolled Act 202, a professor must embrace free expression and "intellectual diversity," while not lecturing about political views unrelated to their field. The law requires those qualities to be considered during tenure review and creates a mechanism for students to report professors. After a "thorough review," Rick Van Kooten, executive dean of IU's College of Arts and Sciences, found the complaint reflected that the professor conflated "personal life experiences, academic scholarship and pedagogical practice" in violation of SEA 202, according to the five-page disciplinary letter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This blurring of roles compromises the integrity of the classroom environment and risks confusing or alienating students," the letter reads. "While this is a matter of degree, it serves as a formal warning to Prof. Robinson to exercise greater care in ensuring that personal experiences and opinions do not unduly influence his pedagogy." IU spokesperson Mark Bode said the university does not comment on personnel matters. He did not respond to an IndyStar question about whether it conducted an investigation. The complaint against Professor Ben Robinson The complaint against Robinson was filed last year and cited classroom comments he made about the university restricting free speech rights, times he's been arrested while protesting, and his views regarding the state of Israel. "He has used class time to say that the university is restricting peoples free speech. He has talked about being arrested during class time several times," the complaint reads. "He talks negatively about the state of Israel and describes the war in untrue and unfair ways." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robinson has been a vocal critic of the IU administration, including its now-struck-down expressive activities policy, and was arrested during the Bloomington campus' Palestine solidarity encampment in spring 2024. He has also been the target of external "watchdog" groups seeking to publicize and condemn political activities of faculty. The professor said he plans to fight the sanction. According to the letter, he can request a campus Faculty Board of Review to investigate whether university officials have infringed on his right to academic freedom. The complaint isn't valid, Robinson asserts, both because of its anonymity and its origin. According to IU policy, a SEA 202 complaint will only be considered if it is submitted by a student or university employee; the policy does not specify protocol for anonymous complaints. In his letter, Van Kooten said the complainant was "very likely a student" in Robinson's class. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also, the complaint was not initially submitted to the student reporting system intended for "intellectual diversity" concerns. Instead, it was sent to an informal remediating body, which cannot investigate or discipline, and the university escalated the complaint to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, which can. "It was surprising that the dean felt that a reporting mechanism that says there's no investigations can just be passed off to someone else, namely him, to conduct the investigation," Robinson said. In the letter, Van Kooten said the complaint submission was "somewhat unusual," but it would be "irresponsible" for the university to ignore the report. Additional sanctions could lead to firing In the disciplinary letter, Van Kooten appeared to be concerned with the complaint's claim that Robinson frequently mentioned university criticisms and his personal experiences. He acknowledged that Robinson's class "addresses matters such as free speech, education, authority, state violence, and genocide" in the curriculum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "However, referencing these experiences 'several' or 'numerous' times risks shifting the focus away from the academic content and toward personal political narratives," Van Kooten writes. "When such references become excessive, they may inadvertently allow personal ideology to overshadow the intended learning objectives and compromise the neutrality expected in the classroom." The sanction does not result in immediate punishment. However, the written warning was added to Robinson's permanent personnel file, meaning it will be considered in future faculty reviews. Additional sanctions could subject Robinson to probation, suspension, termination or a host of possible penalties related to promotions, tenure or salary, according to IU code. Faculty fought legislature's passage of 202 When the bill was passed in 2024, faculty across the state rebuked it as an infringement on academic freedom and warned of a mass chilling effect on free speech and lecturing on divisive topics. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News of his sanction is "utterly, utterly chilling" of his and his colleague's academic freedom and free speech rights, Robinson said, especially during a time when faculty may feel compelled to speak out. He specifically cited genocide in the Israel-Gaza conflict and state-mandated degree cuts at state universities. Receiving another sanction would put his livelihood at risk, Robinson said, and he has lost sleep figuring out how to navigate the process. He said that though he is in a vulnerable position, he hopes to continue to drive conversation about these policies and laws. "The urgency of not caving, the urgency of sticking to one's rights is even greater, because the consequences go well beyond the individual," he said. The USA TODAY Network - Indiana's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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: IU sanctions professor over Indiana's intellectual diversity law Congressional Democrats are hopeful their Republican colleagues will help them push back on President Donald Trumps plan to collect 15% of the profits when Nvidia and AMD sell certain chips to China. This is a terrible idea, and theres bipartisan opposition, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., told Semafor. What were witnessing is that the Trump administration is literally willing to sell out American national security interests for the highest bidders. Van Hollen, who pressed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on plans to sell chips to China when he testified before the Senate, added that the experts in these fields need to make a determination about what chips could help China leap forward in AI technologies, especially those that have military purposes. The White House has defended the unusual arrangement with Nvidia and AMD. The Brief Residents in Van Nuys say a man has been bothering neighbors with strange behaviors for months. Neighbors say Gary has been blasting a train-like horn and even mows his lawn in the middle of the night. LAPD officers responded to the home on Wednesday. Just before 8:30 p.m., LAPD said Gary was taken into custody. LOS ANGELES - After receiving numerous complaints of a Van Nuys resident terrorizing his neighborhood with strange behavior, officers with the Los Angeles Police Department swarmed the house on Peach Avenue Wednesday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The man, Gary Boyadzhyan, has been blasting what sounds like train horns and an alarm since May, keeping neighbors awake all hours of the night. Residents call him neighbor from hell What they're saying FOX11 was there when one of his neighbors confronted him Wednesday. "I just told him 'you've got to chill out, man. You're killing us here,'" said Bernarda. She said he also made cryptic comments about someone possibly being after him and that he needed the police's help. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: San Fernando Valley man terrorizes neighbors with bizarre behavior "Police need to pull up these reports, they need to do their job. Everything's right there in front of them. 1 plus 1 equals 2, not 11," our cameras captured Gary telling Bernarda. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many of the neighbors have called LAPD repeatedly, saying the disruptions go beyond the horns and alarms. "This man is up mowing his lawn at 2 a.m., he's working on cars, metal to metal banging, all hours of the night into the early morning and we all have other things to do," said neighbor Bob. On Wednesday police showed up in force, but Gary was long gone by the time they arrived. The LAPD told FOX11 that it's difficult to make a case for a citation against Gary because officers need to observe the noise themselves, which so far has not happened. Gary speaks out, says life is in danger The other side By Wednesday evening, Gary had returned home and spoke to FOX 11, explaining the reason for the horn. He said his ex-girlfriend's father has been terrorizing and torturing him for the past 20 years, and he's blasting the horn so law enforcement can "do their job" and serve justice against that man. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I don't know what else to do. My life is in danger. He will kill me. He's capable of doing it and he will do it. Nobody in his life has ever talked to him the way I've been talking about him the past two months," Gary told FOX 11. He explained that their conflict began after he caught his ex-girlfriend cheating. He claims her father had him arrested 13 times in eight months in 2013. He also claims that he got him fired from his job. While Gary admits the noise has disturbed his neighbors, he insists it is the only way to get help. "I do apologize for the neighbors. I'm sincerely sorry. I would be uncomfortable too. The noise is really loud. But my life is in danger, I don't know what else to do," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He says he will continue sounding the horn until authorities investigate his claims. Taken into custody Shortly after speaking with reporters outside his house, the LAPD confirmed that Gary was taken into custody. It's unclear what charges he faces. The Source Information for this story came from interviews with neighbors and homeowner Gary Boyadzhyan. The merger of St. Jude the Apostle parish in North Tonawanda has been put on hold, with the possibility of reopening still on the table. Parishioner Victoria Vanill, who has been leading the fight to keep the church open, received letters from the Vatican this month that said it would suspend the merger with St. Christopher in Tonawanda and examine Bishop Michael Fishers decision. The suspension would last for the duration of the recourse, wrote Archbishop Gabriel Ferrada Moreira, the secretary for the Dicastery for Clergy. We want the diocese to reopen it, Vanill said. The Vatican says its worthwhile to even look at. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Tonawanda church celebrated its last official mass on May 4, with the diocese calling for it to merge with St. Christopher due to its proximity to North Tonawanda. Another church in its family, St. Francis of Assisi in Tonawanda, was recommended to merge with Our Lady of Czestochowa in North Tonawanda. The news from the Vatican comes as at least 14 churches across the diocese have also appealed to the Vatican about the closures set forth by the Buffalo Diocese as part of its Road to Renewal initiative. The diocese has also reached a $150 million settlement for its sex abuse cases, with plans calling for parish reserve funds to pay up to $80 million toward the settlement. Parishioners from nine churches, including All Saints in Lockport, have sued the diocese to stop the plan, with the first hearings in State Supreme Court taking place this week. The St. Jude case is different from other appeals because it was made in May, months after a 10-day time limit had passed to appeal the dioceses decree on Jan. 21. Vanill had not been made aware of these deadlines until April, turning to the organization Save Our Buffalo Churches for help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She previously told the Gazette that St. Jude had a larger congregation than St. Christophers, with the number of registered and contributing households, baptisms, and confirmations increasing since the COVID-19 pandemic. She also felt this church was chosen to close for its land value. Since May, the churchs crucifix has been moved to St. Christophers and its stations of the cross have been moved to Our Lady of Czestochowa. Those items would have to be returned if St. Jude reopens. Father Michael LaMarca, the priest for St. Jude when it closed, said he was informed about the Vaticans decision on July 14, calling it unexpected because of the passed deadlines. A Facebook post made the following day on the parish familys Facebook page said it does not change anything. There are no current plans to reopen it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are letting the process unfold before making any decision, LaMarca said. If we were to move back in and make it fully functional and then ultimately the parish does merge, the people would have to go through the heartache all over again. St. Judes rectory was sold in June, while the main church building is not currently listed. LaMarca said the property has interested parties who would be contacted if the diocese decides to sell the property. VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) Three adults and four dogs were displaced after an early morning fire on Magnolia Street. According to officials, on Aug. 14 just after 3:30 a.m., crews with the Virginia Beach Fire Department were dispatched to the 20 block of Magnolia Street for reports of a residential structure fire. This is in the Pembroke area of the city. Upon arrival to the scene, heavy smoke was seen coming from a mobile home in the area. The fire was considered marked out by 4:08 a.m. Magnolia Street fire (WAVY photo) Magnolia Street fire (WAVY photo) Magnolia Street fire (WAVY photo) Magnolia Street fire (WAVY photo) Magnolia Street fire (WAVY photo) No injuries were reported as a result of the fire and Red Cross was called to assist with the displaced individuals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental and electrical. Continue to check WAVY.com for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Authorities in Venice are considering increasing the price of secret cheap gondola rides usually used by locals after social media influencers shared tips about the budget-friendly boats. Queues have been getting longer at four crossings at the Grand Canal, Venices main waterway, after influencers posted about the large gondolas or traghetti (ferries). The ferries cost around 2 (1.70) for tourists, and even less for residents, which is a far cry from the 80 (68) gondola ride that most visitors will pay on average. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locals have complained that they are now suffering as a consequence. The ferries have become the latest trend for tourists who want to spend little and get in a gondola, Andrea Morucchio, a local artist, said in a statement to the Times. Thanks to influencers and bloggers it has become one of the most popular things in Venice and as a result Venetians are suffering. While travel guides have long recommended boarding traghetti to get around the city, the rise of social media has increased their popularity. Influencers have recommended the boat ride to solo travellers who may not be able to afford an individual gondola, plus mooted it as an easy way to snap a selfie without going over budget. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Simone Venturini, Venices councillor for tourism, told The Times that the city was considering increasing the price for tourists, then investing these funds into opening up two new ferry crossings across the Grand Canal. An increase would be justified since tourists are using the service as a substitute gondola ride, he said. Tourists causing havoc on gondolas is not new. In 2024, a group of tourists fell overboard after taking photographs from the vessel. While navigating a low bridge near St. Marks Square, the gondoliers alleged request for the passengers to remain seated were ignored, causing the incident to occur. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city has a complicated relationship with tourism. Last year, Venice became the first city in the world to charge admission for day trippers. A 5 (4.30) to 10 (8.60) levy was trialled between April and July this year. Tourists who make reservations less than four days in advance are charged the higher rate. Day trippers visiting during peak hours 8.30am to 4pm have to pay the daily fee, while overnight tourists with hotel reservations are exempt from the charge. However, businessmen in the city have proposed an even larger entry fee at 100 (86) after they said Venice is in a state of calamity. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Setrak Tokatzian, president of St Marks Square residents association, called for the charge in order to stem the rivers of people arriving in Venice. There's a complete explosion of overtourism like never before, with a type of people wandering around without entering shops or even knowing where they are. The Independent has contacted the Italian tourist board for comment. For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga praised President William Rutos Kenya Kwanza regime for scaling up development of the countys infrastructure. Speaking on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, during the ongoing Devolution Conference, Governor Wanga credited the progress to a strong nationalcounty relationship. She referred to the establishment of a broad-based government as a milestone that ushered in revolutionary programs in the region. She emphasized that the collaboration flourished despite Homa Bay not voting for Ruto in the past General Election. I want to thank you for your partnership in transforming Homa Bay to make it worthy of hosting this conference. When you last visited Homa Bay in January 2023, three-quarters of the development seen here was not there. I was an opposition governor, and there was no broad-based government and no partnership. But you had no intention of leaving us behind simply because of how we voted in the election in which you were voted as the president, she said. Among the flagship projects, Wanga noted the dualling of the main road in Homa Bay Town and construction of the Lake Pier, an important infrastructure project that will modernize the lakeside town and facilitate connectivity to Lake Victoria islands. Initiated in 2023, the pier will be a key transport and trade hub linking Homa Bay to Kisumu County, Entebbe and Jinja in Uganda, Mwanza in Tanzania, and other regional markets. The governor noted the project not only ensured seamless transport and improved regional integration but also created thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities, transforming livelihoods in the county. Wanga further thanked the Senate, Council of Governors, and County Assembly members for their efforts in making Homa Bay successful in hosting the high-profile devolution conference, terming it as a milestone in the history of development in the county. Homa Bay Targets City Status in 10 Years This comes as Governor Wanga seeks to transform Homa Bay into a top tourist and investment hub, drawing lessons from Cape Town, South Africa. Speaking on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Homa Bay, ahead of the Devolution Conference, Wanga cited the countys vast untapped potential in tourism, the blue economy, and urbanization. She pointed out that Homa Bay boasts the longest coastline along Lake Victoria and thus a unique advantage to transform the county by its wide beachfront. Wanga further said that she was planning to offer the countys urban landscape a new face and redevelop it in Cape Towns image. She hopes that within the next decade, Homa Bay will officially be recognized as a city. In another 10 years, we hope to be the city we are modelling after Cape Town as a city, she added. Check out the proposal for the Lakeside City Masterplan towards Homa Bay city status by 2035 below. A search is underway for an 18-year-old woman who disappeared a week ago from Rehoboth, Massachusetts, police and her family said. Kylee Monteiro is 11 weeks pregnant and has been missing since Aug. 7, her sister told ABC News. "This is not like her at all. This is completely unusual and very scary, to say the least," Faith Monteiro said Thursday. Faith Monteiro - PHOTO: Kylee Monteiro, 18, has been missing since Aug. 7, according to the Rehoboth Police Department. Kylee Monteiro, who had just graduated from Attleboro High School two and a half months ago, was last seen in the area of County Street in Rehoboth, Massachusetts, the Rehoboth Police Department said in a press release on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her sister said the 18-year-old had been living at a homeless shelter for pregnant women in Pembroke, Massachusetts, for the past few weeks as her and her boyfriend were "on and off" and that there had been "domestic issues" in the relationship, including an altercation that allegedly occurred the night before she disappeared. After an alleged argument on Aug. 6, Kylee Monteiro allegedly called her sister, along with several others, saying the dispute had calmed down but she was fearful for her life, her sister said. "She was desperate for help. She was calling out to friends, family, anyone she could, telling them that she was in danger. The whole situation is very scary," Faith Monteiro told ABC News. Faith Monteiro said she told the 18-year-old that she could pick her up, but she declined. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Her sister said the teen is "not the type of person" to ask a stranger for a ride and "doesn't know how to survive on her own." The Rehoboth Police Department and the Bristol County District Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment. MORE: Teen missing for nearly 1 week after going on vacation in Florida, texts mom 'help' before disappearing: Family Her sister said Kylee Monteiro was "really excited" to become a mom. "She even had a name picked out for the baby. If she had a girl, she was going to name the baby Eleanor," her sister said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The teen's whole family is "worried sick" and "just want her to come home immediately," Faith Monteiro said. "I love her, I miss her," she said. The teen is described as approximately 6 feet tall with brown hair, police said. She was last seen wearing a red t-shirt with the phrase "Get Over It" printed on the front, ripped blue jeans and tan boots, according to the police press release. She may have been carrying a white bag with her belongings inside, police said. Anyone with more information regarding Kylee Monteiro's disappearance or whereabouts -- or residents in the area with video surveillance -- are urged to contact the Rehoboth Police Department immediately. TOPEKA (KSNT) In the era of the military draft and the Vietnam War, one White City native joined the Army to make a difference. He is proud to say that he served his country the best he could. Dale Putman enlisted back in 1964 at just 19-years-old, starting out as an engineer. This was just the start for Putman, as it marked the beginning of his nearly four-decade career. Since he enlisted, the Army was the option that was narrowed down for him. Well, if I was in the Air Force, I cant fly like a bird and I cant swim the ocean, Putman said. So the only thing I can do, I can dig a hole. So, I stayed on the ground, and thats how it came up to be Army. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Veteran Salute: I just wanted to be a soldier Putman was a float bridge specialist during his time at Fort Carson, Colorado. When his friends were drafted for the Vietnam War and he wasnt needed, it bothered him. So, when the opportunity presented itself to go to Afghanistan, he volunteered. I told the adjutant general and his staff, I want to volunteer to go to Afghanistan, Putman said. And so they put in the paperwork. At that time, if you were in the guards at the age of 60, youre supposed to retire. But they found a way to get by that. So I went over to Afghanistan. And my biggest thing was I served my country. And I feel good about it, even though I had to wait until I was 60-years-old to do that. But all the training for that amount of years was put to work. And I celebrated my 61st birthday in Afghanistan. There wasnt just one particular moment that stuck out to Putman, where he felt the most proud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From 1964 till 2007, Putman said. I served my country and protected what you know, if they called me to protect stuff, I could do it. And I was very proud to be able to come feel my obligation to the United States of America. Thats, thats what Im proud of, being able to so that we can have the freedom that we got today. Even after a nearly forty-year career in the military, Putman is not retired and is still helping the community through FEMA and the Kansas Department of Emergency Management. He lives outside Emporia with his wife, Judith with their cattle operation. Veteran Salute: Fighting fires with the reserve and making an new all-veterans memorial in Lebo For more Veteran Salute, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News. BUFFALO Robb and Jen Hicks and Rob Mortimore announced Tuesday they have reached an agreement with News Media Corporation to buy the companys Wyoming publications and resume publication immediately. The announcement comes six days after News Media Corporation suddenly announced the immediate closure of all of its publications, including eight publications in Niobrara, Goshen, Platte, Sublette and Uinta counties and one paper in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Mortimore was president of an NMC subsidiary called Wyoming Newspapers Inc., which operated all eight Wyoming publications and the one publication in Scottsbluff. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Robb and Jen Hicks own and operate the Buffalo Bulletin, and though their paper was unaffiliated with the closures, they joined Mortimore in the effort to save these papers. Its been a very hectic and exhausting six days, Mortimore told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle on Tuesday. Were in a completely different place right now, and its a good spot for our newspapers. Im excited to just be able to continue to publish newspapers in our communities. The agreement includes rehiring all 30 of the newspapers staff members and immediately resuming publication of all titles. We are honored to assume stewardship of these legacy community newspapers, Robb Hicks said in a news release. Our foremost priority has been to ensure that these counties are not left without a credible, enduring source of local journalism. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, Mortimore added that the deal would not have been possible without the efforts of NMC CEO JJ Tompkins. It would have been far simpler for him to yield to the demands of creditors, Mortimore said in the statement. Instead, he chose to work with us to safeguard the future of these Wyoming communities, to preserve their newspapers, and to ensure that every employee was paid and retained. The deal is also a reflection of the dedicated staff who did not take these closures as a true ending, Pinedale Roundup Managing Editor Cali OHare said. The Roundup was one of the papers impacted by NMCs sudden closures. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Wyomingites had any doubt about the commitment of their news organizations, they need look no further than the staff at these eight community newspapers and our leadership, who spent the last week working tirelessly and against all the odds to protect these legacy publications, OHare said. Were very proud to place Wyomings newspapers back into the hands of Wyoming people. Thats right where they belong, and we know theyll be treasured. Less than a week ago, papers like the Roundup, the Torrington Telegram, the Platte County Record Times and the Guernsey Gazette were looking at certain closures. Their staff refused to accept that end, Platte County Record Times and Guernsey Gazette Managing Editor Marie Hamilton told the WTE. I didnt stop working, and my community was very supportive of that, Hamilton said. I continue to go to town councils and whatever else. I kept going, just knowing that Rob (Mortimore) would take care of it. I didnt know what that looked like, but I knew he would. Hamilton noted that this week has really solidified for her how much support there is for these papers in the community, and she hopes that it solidified for the community just how committed these journalists are to their jobs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This reinvigorated that commitment, Hamilton said. You dont realize how much you love what you do and love your community until its suddenly gone. Both Hicks and Mortimore extended their appreciation to the newspapers staff for their dedication, professionalism and steadfast belief that a solution could be secured to revive these publications. We are equally grateful to community members for their unwavering support, said Hicks. A newspaper is the lifeblood of a community, but it can only thrive when the community it serves invests in its survival. All 30 Wyoming Newspaper Inc. employees that lost their jobs last week stayed and will be returning under the new agreement, Mortimore said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement None of them took off and bailed, and they all stuck with it, Mortimore said. I admire their passion and their desire to bring the news, so Im happy that we can deliver. Though the papers are remaining in their communities, they will no longer be operating under Wyoming Newspapers Inc. Instead, Hicks and Mortimore will form a new limited liability corporation, 100% Wyoming owned and operated, Mortimore said. The final cost of the deal is dependent on closing, which is expected to happen sometime later this week. On Aug. 6, Tompkins, CEO of News Media Corporation, announced that the companys eight publications in five Wyoming counties, as well as its newspapers in other states, would close immediately. Citing a significant economic slowdown impacting our industry and a recent failed attempt to sell the company, Tompkins said he had made the difficult decision to shutter the companys newspapers immediately. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The publications impacted in Wyoming were the Torrington Telegram, Platte County Record-Times (Wheatland), Guernsey Gazette, Lusk Herald, Uinta County Herald (Evanston), Pinedale Roundup, Kemmerer Gazette and Bridger Valley Pioneer (Lyman). The news of the papers closure was met with shock and sadness in the communities the papers serve. In Facebook comments, community members lamented the loss to their communities and questioned whether there might be ways to reopen the publications. Mortimore has more than two decades of experience in the news industry, and he was the group publisher of News Media Corporations Wyoming publications prior to the company closing those papers. He will continue to serve as group publisher, according to the news release. He and his wife, Shaylee, live in Torrington. Robb and Jen Hicks have owned and operated the Buffalo Bulletin in Johnson County since 1996. The Hicks family has multigenerational ties to Wyoming newspapers that dates back over seven decades, the release said. CHICAGO Authorities are searching for answers on Thursday morning after a person was found dead on the train tracks on the citys West Side after coming into contact with the electrified third rail. Chicago police say the victim, an unidentified male, was found unresponsive along the train tracks in the 700 block of South Central Avenue, just east of the Austin Blue Line stop. Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it is unclear how the victim got onto the tracks, during the incident, officers said the victim came into contact with the third rail. The victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was later pronounced dead on the scene. LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland Detectives are now conducting a death investigation and autopsy results are pending. The incident caused some disruptions for Blue Line riders early Thursday morning after trains were briefly halted, but full service resumed by 8 a.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV. It was almost exactly 10 years ago, Sept. 3, 2015, former Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis was ordered to appear in federal court in Ashland. U.S. District Judge David Bunning ordered her to appear because of her refusal to issue a marriage certificate to a same-sex couple in Morehead. Many were surprised when Davis was ordered to jail and she spent five days in Carter County Jail. Many locals underestimated the significance of her appearance as national media filled the nearby hotel the day preceding her hearing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Candidates seeking the 2016 Republican presidential nomination turned up in Grayson, too. With television cameras in tow, both Sen. Ted Cruz and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee were there while Davis was behind bars. Huckabee wanted to be jailed in lieu of Davis. The law doesnt allow for that. Neither man got the nomination. Trump did. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on June 26, 2015, that same-sex marriage is legal in all states. Prior to the narrow 5-4 ruling, same-sex marriage was only legal in states where the legislature enacted such legislation. Same-sex marriage on a state-by-state basis could be problematic. If a Massachusetts couple just graduated from medical school and moved to a state that same-sex marriage was illegal, then they accumulate substantial assets, where would they go to get divorced? Kim Davis has petitioned the Court to have the original ruling allowing same-sex marriage to be overturned by the Supreme Court. Davis is asking the Court to overturn the original case Obergefell v. Hodges. Davis has piled up high legal costs which courts have ruled she has to pay. She owes the defendants $100,000 plus $260,000 in attorneys fees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But will the Supreme Court overturn the 2015 decision? It is a different, more conservative court. Congress passed The Respect for Marriage Act in 2022. That law codified same-sex marriage and interracial marriage. Its a long shot according to those who report on the Supreme Court. But Roe v. Wade was a long shot. The Supreme Court should not accept the Kim Davis petition for review. It is settled law. PARIS A new era opens at Villa Noailles, the organizer of the International Festival of Fashion, Photography and Accessories of Hyeres. On Thursday, the French ministry of culture announced it had agreed to the nomination of Hugo Lucchino as managing director of the association, in full agreement with stakeholders that include Pascale Mussard, Villa Noailles president, as well as the elected officials of the region, metropolitan area and cities of Toulon and Hyeres. More from WWD Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The project of Hugo Lucchino [is] in perfect accord with the history, the territory and the challenges of the Villa Noailles and attests to his in-depth knowledge of the fashion and design sectors, the ministry said in a statement. His programming is articulated around the two festivals the International Festival of Fashion, Photography and Accessories of Hyeres and the Design Parade, as well as the patrimonial valorization of the place. A graduate of the Universite Paris I Sorbonne, the Ecole du Louvre and the Sciences Po university, Lucchino is currently general secretary of Paris Palais Galliera fashion museum and is expected to take his position at Villa Noailles in the fall. During his five-and-a-half-year tenure at Galliera, Lucchino oversaw the end of renovation and extension works as well as an internal reorganization ahead of the museums reopening. He also worked on the conception and implementation of Gallieras new scientific and cultural project. Prior to that, Lucchino served for more than two years as general secretary of Le Signe, the national center for graphic arts, where he had started as director of administrative and financial affairs. Lucchino was instrumental in securing the institutions classification as a center of contemporary art of national interest. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lucchino succeeds founder Jean-Pierre Blanc, who stepped down in May to concentrate on the artistic direction of its cultural events. The move came after an audit by the ministry of cultures general inspectorate of cultural affairs highlighted a debt of 3.8 million euros in the associations financial results for 2023, including an annual deficit of 650,000 euros and unpaid supplier invoices to the tune of 2.7 million euros. At the time, the association said it had paid more than 1 million euros in outstanding invoices since the beginning of 2025, prioritizing artists and suppliers who were in greater difficulty. Named as interim administrator in May, Benedicte Lefeuvre, former regional director of cultural affairs for the Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur region, oversaw a plan to pay off the remaining debt and put in place a budget with appropriate liquidities for 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Also among remedial actions are prioritizing artistic spend and building greater governance and transparency with local public stakeholders. This years Design Parade festival proceeded as planned in June. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the fashion, photography and accessories festival in Hyeres will take place from Oct. 16 to 18, spanning three days rather than the traditional four. Founded in 1986, the Villa Noailles association has a budget of around 6 million euros a year and employs 20 permanent staff. Over the years, Blanc regularly raised the alarm on the growing financial needs for the Villa Noailles and particularly the Hyeres fashion and photography festival. In 2018, he told WWD it cost 2 million euros to produce each year, with the show, travel and hotel costs for guests accounting for most of the expenditure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It receives public funding from local, regional and national institutions such as the cities of Hyeres and Toulon, as well as the French ministry of culture. Private sponsors, which contribute between 35 and 50 percent of the budget depending on the year, have included the likes of Chanel, Hermes, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Kering, Galeries Lafayette, Supima, Chloe and Mercedes-Benz. Revenue is also generated from an onsite boutique, sale of artistic licenses as well publications of artistic catalogues and books. Since July 1, an entrance fee has been charged to the various sites managed by the association, including the Clos-Saint-Bernard, known colloquially as the Villa Noailles, built by art patrons Marie-Laure and Charles de Noailles, and the historic bishopric building in Toulon. Best of WWD Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has ordered the state police department to investigate staff at a Fairfax County school for allegedly hiding an abortion provided to a minor without parental consent, and potentially doing so with public money. According to the news release published on Wednesday, reports allege that school staff assisted several students in obtaining abortions in 2021, and that the school administration may have been aware of the situation. My frustration with Fairfax County Public Schools runs deep, and it, of course, starts with respecting the role of parents in their childrens lives, Youngkin told ABC 7News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a letter to staff and families at Centreville High School, where the apparent incidents occurred, the public schools Superintendent Michelle Reid said that under no circumstances would these allegations be acceptable. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, center, standing before President Donald Trump speaks at a ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Washington. | Evan Vucci We all have serious questions about these allegations that must be answered. We all deserve to know what happened, and at my direction, the division has taken immediate action to engage an external independent investigator to get all the facts, she wrote. We will see this investigation through with the utmost seriousness, taking swift and appropriate action once we have the facts. It is my commitment to share the key findings of that investigation as soon as I am able. Fairfax County Public Schools said that a criminal investigation was launched as soon as officials were made aware of the incident. We have serious questions about these allegations that must be answered, the county school district told Fox News in a statement. At no time would the situation as described in these allegations from back in 2021 be acceptable in Fairfax County Public Schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We have taken immediate action engaging an external investigator to get the facts, the district added. We all deserve to know exactly what happened. We will take appropriate action as necessary. The investigation is ongoing. A Tesla Supercharger station with a built-in diner in Los Angeles had its grand opening, and a handful of reporters stopped in for a first look and a bite. According to Business Insider, the Tesla Diner served classic American cuisine from smashburgers to chicken and waffles at its launch in July, and the reviews on food were fairly high. Photos of the diner's exterior were shared online recently, with awe coming from both Tesla fans and those who enjoy the design of a retro-style restaurant. While the neon lights and tile floors paid homage to a classic diner, much of the restaurant was anything but. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Diehard Tesla fans and curious onlookers alike stopped in for a bite to eat and a selfie with a popcorn-serving humanoid robot," Business Insider reported. While employees gave conflicting information on whether a human controlled the robot, the general sentiment was that Tesla's technological capabilities with its Optimus bot were clear, and it left customers entertained. Though Tesla has seen fluctuating sales numbers across 2025, the company continues to release new tech and bigger ideas, keeping it at least in the zeitgeist. Curating this kind of community within EV charging could be a great step to propel the widespread adoption of the vehicles. By owning an EV, you can avoid burning the dirty fuels associated with gas-powered cars and help prevent air pollution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With more Supercharger stations popping up, more manufacturers making their EVs compatible with the tech, and Tesla planning to integrate the Tesla Diner into more stations, the hope is that EV driving and charging can be more accessible. Another way to charge your EV is with home solar. While these may not come with a burger, they are more affordable than using public charging stations or relying on the grid. If you're unsure where to start with solar panels, EnergySage makes it easy to compare quotes from vetted local installers and save up to $10,000 on solar installations. The Tesla Diner grand opening was seemingly a success, although The Guardian reported that 48 hours after the initial launch, the kinks in the restaurant became clear. After waiting in line for 20 minutes, one father decided to go elsewhere for lunch. Would you be more likely to shop at a store that paid you for your old stuff? Absolutely Only if they make it easy Depends on the store Nope Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. The man gave the restaurant the benefit of the doubt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's the grand opening things happen," he said, per The Guardian. "It is what it is. They're doing the best they can." 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. There will be a day soon when there will be no one alive who fought in the Second World War. Collecting and preserving the first-hand stories of those who served Britain and the Commonwealth, yes, but from every nation is an act of national and global importance. VJ Day 80: We Were There (BBC Two) was not just a fascinating and moving documentary, but a profoundly important document of a time rapidly slipping from active memory. One imagines many more hours of interviews were filmed than the brief 60 minutes we had here. Hopefully every minute has been catalogued. There has always been a bitter irony that 99 days passed between VE Day and VJ Day, with those in the UK hanging up the bunting and swinging from lampposts while the Fourteenth Army continued a brutal and harrowing war against the Japanese in Singapore, Thailand, Burma (now Myanmar), India and the Pacific Ocean. It was not lost on those interviewed here, most of them over 100. As Reg Holbrook of the Fleet Air Arm said: What did it matter to us if the German war started or finished? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Presented by Radio 5 Lives Rachel Burden, We Were There deserves credit for refusing to sentimentalise, romanticise or censor the testimony of the veterans. Some of it was appalling to hear and much anti-Japanese sentiment was expressed, but these were honest, raw interviews with people who were often in visible distress. Robin Rowland of the British India Army remembered Japanese soldiers bayoneting 31 British soldiers who lay in a field hospital and coming across mounds of Japanese troops who had starved to death. Jim Wren of the Royal Marines, who seemed visibly weighed down by the awfulness of his memories, was blunt: Its ruined my life. To see men die like that. Olga Henderson was a prisoner of war in Singapore aged nine - Christopher Pledger A Pathe newsreel of the time announced that the triumph in Burma has brought everlasting glory to our fighting men. Yet here were those lucky fighting men who survived. None of them mentioned glory. There was no glory for Olga Henderson, a prisoner of war in Singapore aged nine, who looted the bodies of Japanese officers who had committed suicide after the surrender. She tried to pull gold teeth out of their mouths, with no feeling at all. When taken prisoner, Henderson and her family had crossed a bridge lined with the decapitated heads of Commonwealth soldiers. Later, in a moment that would have had a statue in tears, Henderson wept at seeing a news report of a starving little boy begging for food in a modern-day war. Thats what we were doing, she said. What have we done? What are we doing to the world? Nothings changed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There was light in the dark. Tales of friendships formed between soldiers and nurses on a boat to India, of the beautiful feeling of a monsoon on your body after weeks of baking heat, of one soldiers amazement at all the yellow balloons that suddenly appeared when the Japanese surrendered (they were condoms). And the wonderful Yavar Abbas, of the 11th Sikh Regiment, who was sent to Japan as part of the occupying force after the war and fell in love with the people. The end credits informed us that many of those interviewed have since died, underlying the sheer importance of this film. 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. BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN) The United Way of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley held its annual Stuff the Bus event on Thursday. Dozens of volunteers were packing bookbags at the Resource Center in Boardman. This is the 15th year that Huntington Bank teamed up with United Way for the campaign, but this year, they doubled their efforts, stuffing 2,000 bookbags. They will now go to local schools throughout the Valley to reach students most in need. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We hear from teachers that say, Are you doing the backpack program? We want to make sure all the kids are on equal footing, and we try to target the communities that need it the most, that really need the backpacks, maybe the families that cant afford the backpack or the school supplies, said Bob Hannon, president of the United Way. Volunteers from Great Clips also helped stuff the backpacks. Coccas Pizza also helped by raising funds to purchase the supplies. Brian Oehlbeck 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. MPs have approved new regulations to establish a unified system for recognising and accrediting qualifications at all education levels nationwide. The move is designed to enhance the quality and authenticity of education and training certificates across the country. The National Assembly Delegated Legislation Committee, chaired by Ainabkoi MP Samuel Chepkonga, debated and endorsed the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (General) Regulations, 2025, on Tuesday. During the committee session, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba presented the regulations alongside Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) CEO Alice Kande and Council Chairperson Stanley Kiptis. The Committee on Delegated Legislation has considered and adopted new regulations aimed at creating a structured system for classifying qualifications across different levels of education, the committee said in a statement. CS Julius Ogamba told the committee that the latest draft of the regulations incorporated amendments MPs had proposed during the April 1, 2025, session. He defended the regulations, saying they would harmonise and standardise education and training, enabling the portability, mobility, and recognition of qualifications, the statement adds. Clause 26 introduces a formal accreditation process for all qualifications. Under this clause, any foreign education provider interested in offering qualifications in Kenya will need to obtain clearance from the relevant regulatory authority first. The regulations also provide for a monitoring system of learning progress and attainment, recognizing knowledge obtained through formal education, as well as informal and non-formal education. To enhance oversight, the system calls for the establishment of a national qualifications database and a single central register of all approved awarding bodies. These tools will make it easier to verify and track credentials issued nationwide. Following the committees endorsement, Parliament confirmed that members will compile a detailed report before submitting it to the full House for debate and final approval. Plans for a solar farm in Scott Twp. are in limbo as the township supervisors have not voted on them. Supervisors were set to vote Monday on a conditional use application for a ground-mounted solar energy facility with about 5,200 panels. Supervisor Chairman Mike Giannetta made a motion to vote on the application, but there was no second on the motion from the other supervisors, Brian Brenzel and Steven Russell. Brenzel and Russell did not say why they didnt second the proposal during the meeting. Solicitor Richard Fanucci told them a motion for a vote without a second is a null vote, meaning there was no vote, Giannetta said this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pivot Energy of Denver and Donald Race are proposing building the 2.7-megawatt AC facility on 10 acres of a property Race owns on Carbondale Road near the South Abington Twp. border. The plans call for the panels to be mounted on a single-axis tracker, with the project set back 100 feet from the parcels boundaries, surrounded by an 8-foot-high fence and trees. The array would produce about 4,370 MWh annually, which Gordon Woodcock, Pivots project director, said in the application is enough for more than 300 residences. It would be accessed by a 20-foot gravel driveway. The site wouldnt emit light, noise, odors, pollution or emissions, and would comply with township ordinances on operations, fire and explosion hazards, noise, lighting and glare, Woodcock said in the application. It would include native plants, have a stormwater management and decommissioning plan in place, and interconnection approval with PPL. The townships planning commission approved the project in May with conditions that there be glare control during construction, a decommissioning bond with the township and that the township see a sample host agreement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The supervisors were originally going to vote on the plans last month but didnt because there wasnt a quorum. Giannetta expects the application will be up for a vote at the supervisors regular monthly meeting on Tuesday. He said there is no legal basis for voting the project down as solar farms are permitted under township zoning, adding the applicant also did a glare and noise study, both of which are required under state law. Its met all standards in the township zoning ordinance, Giannetta said. Solar farms are allowed as long as they meet the standards in the zoning ordinance. Its a thorough application. He said no residents or adjoining landowners have objected to the project. The project is the second that Pivot Energy has proposed in Lackawanna County this year. The solar company also sought conditional use in Ransom Twp. to build 6,550 solar modules on 18 acres of a nearly 300-acre parcel at Ransom and Lower Narrows roads. Supervisors denied the request in June and the company appealed the decision. The appeal is ongoing. Photo from campaign website (The Center Square) Republicans believe they have a good chance of winning back the 3rd Congressional District in southwest Washington state. Democratic United States Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez defeated Republican Joe Kent in November and earned a second term representing that district. This week, state Sen. John Braun, R-Centralia, announced he will challenge Gluesenkamp Perez in the 2026 election. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a big decision, and I'm proud and Im grateful for the opportunity to run in the 3rd Congressional District, Braun told The Center Square. Its something we've been talking about for a long time. I've gotten a lot of support from inside the district, and from back in D.C. This is a seat that Republicans can run in and win. It'll certainly change our lives in a meaningful way if we're successful, but it's a price worth paying if we can keep our country on a better track. A poll, conducted by Washington-based Voter Sciences LLC, asked a cross-section of registered voters from the 3rd Congressional District which candidate they would choose in a series of head-to-head election scenarios. The results showed Braun and two other potential Republican challengers could all mount a successful challenge to the incumbent. Pitted against any of the three potential opponents with the highest name recognition State Sen. John Braun, education reform advocate Heidi St. John, and State Rep. Jim Walsh the incumbent congresswoman loses, noted a Washington State Republican Party post on Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the poll results: Braun vs. Gluesenkamp Perez: John Braun beats Gluesenkamp Perez 47.55% to 41.29% with 11.16% undecided.St. John vs. Gluesenkamp Perez: Heidi St. John beats Gluesenkamp Perez 45.84% to 42.78% with 11.38% undecided.Walsh vs. Gluesenkamp Perez: Jim Walsh beats Gluesenkamp Perez 47.88% to 41.96% with 10.16% undecided. Washington State Republican Party Director Matthew Frohlich noted, This poll confirms with solid data what people who follow Washington politics already know: Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is an extremely vulnerable congresswoman. Voters in the district prefer any of the most likely potential challengers to the weak incumbent. So far, only Braun has announced plans to challenge Gluesenkamp Perez. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We've been talking about this really in earnest since the end of the legislative session, and it's a big decision for the family, and it took a while to really work through the challenges this would XXX. My kids are now grown and out adulting, Braun said. It's also a big decision for our business, so we had to work through the details and see if we could really make this work. We came to the conclusion we could, and if we're going to jump in, we had to do it sooner because there's a lot of work to do to put ourselves in a position to win next year. Braun Northwest is a family-owned emergency vehicle manufacturer that serves fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies across the western United States. Braun, the top Republican in the state Senate, said he has no plans to step down from that position despite running for Congress. I am not up for reelection in the state Senate until 2028, so I don't plan to leave my state Senate seat, he explained. The caucus will ultimately decide whether I stay as leader or not. I'm not going to speak for them. If they're supportive of me staying in the leader role, then I intend to do so, and if they think it's better to go in a different direction, I certainly support that as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Braun suggested his party is confident Republicans can win back the 3rd Congressional District seat. "President [Donald] Trump won this district in 2016, 2020 and 2024 pretty comfortably, he noted. So, theres every reason to think that this is a seat that Republicans could win, and hold, and this is the time to do it. The longer we wait to challenge the incumbent, the tougher she's going to be. I think I bring good credentials and the right understanding of the priorities, conservative priorities that broadly the district supports. They are a commonsense district that wants good government and wants someone who's prepared to actually get work done. The Center Square contacted the Gluesenkamp Perez campaign for comment. "When you speak to voters, they dont want empty platitudes. They want opportunities for their kids, ample funding for law enforcement, and accountability from their representatives. Thats what Marie is focused on delivering, Campaign Manager Tim Gowen emailed The Center Square. John Braun's right about one thing: Marie will be tough for him to beat, and it's only going to get tougher for him as Marie gets more and more done for Southwest Washington. Paulette Lewis, left, delivers a sandwich to Norman Mack, right, during lunch for seniors at the DaVinci Center for Community Progress on Charles Street in Providence on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025. (Photo by Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) Just minutes from luxury downtown and university campuses in downtown Providence, lies a starkly different reality in the citys North End. Providence is made up of 25 neighborhoods. The North End which includes Wanskuck and Charles houses nearly 19,000 people. Once home to factory workers, the areas social demographics have shifted after years of underinvestment and aging infrastructure. It has become a refuge for vulnerable communities seeking affordable housing, including older adults, minorities, immigrants, and low-income families. Disparities and social service gaps here were identified in a recent community needs assessment (CNA) conducted by the local nonprofit organization, the DaVinci Center for Community Progress. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lets take a look at the data: Poverty: Rhode Islands poverty rate is 10.8%; in Providence, its 17.5%. In Wanskuck and Charles, it rises to 33% (2023 U.S. Census Bureau; OBrien, Bates College). Uninsured residents: About 5% of Rhode Islanders are uninsured, compared to 9% in Providence and 12% in Wanskuck and Charles (CNA, DaVinci Center, 2024). Eviction rate: The statewide average is 4%, while in North End Providence, it exceeds 7% (CNA, DaVinci Center, 2024). Rent burden: Approximately 30% of Rhode Islanders spend more than 30% of their income on housing. In Providence, this number rises to 44%, in Wanskuck and Charles, it is 52% (CNA, DaVinci Center, 2024). It is no surprise that this part of the city also experiences safety issues. The community needs assessment revealed that residents reported seeing signs of drug use and violence on the streets, which discouraged them from leaving their homes. Street safety concerns were consistent across all age groups, including youth, adults, and seniors. These disparities are not random; they are interconnected and rooted in the social determinants of health: access to housing, education, employment, language, and social services. When these needs remain unmet, the result is not just poor health, its a cycle of deepening crisis. And it is precisely the barriers that were identified by residents themselves. Out of 388 survey participants, 50 focus group attendees, and 12 key stakeholder interviews, the most frequently requested services were: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youth programs : after-school support, career exploration, internships, safe spaces for teen socialization , programs to address mental health and bullying in schools , and technology training (including AI and digital literacy) Seniors programs : social activities to reduce isolation, health and wellness checks and services, home visits, access to dental care, technology and digital literacy classes to access digital health services, and reliable transportation Family support : counseling, referrals, parenting classes, culturally sensitive outreach, English language classes, financial literacy workshops, family-strengthening initiatives, workforce development Basic needs: access to food, hygiene products, diapers, and personal care services Preventive care is especially crucial for older adults. Thats why the DaVinci Center is exploring ways to offer on-site health-related programs, says Executive Director Norma Gonzalez. (Photo Michael Salerno/Rhode Island Current) These findings arent just data for us they tell the stories of our neighbors and serve as a guide for action, DaVinci Center Executive Director Norma Gonzalez said. For example, CNA showed that transportation issues are widespread, and most preventive care facilities are not within walking distance of many residents. We all understand the importance of preventive care at any age, and it is especially crucial for older adults. The DaVinci Center is now exploring ways to offer on-site health-related programs. The DaVinci Center is the only community center in the neighborhood. Its current focus is providing food-related services to senior residents. Our community needs assessment showed that it carries the responsibility to increase services provided and to advocate for the community. We have to break this cycle of trauma and neglect, Gonzalez said. But we cant do it by ourselves. We need our leaders to act now and develop a community plan that is actionable and sustainable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is a gap in addressing social determinants of health in neighborhoods like the North End of Providence. Even more concerning is the absence of sustained, long-term policies to support essential infrastructure neighborhood centers, job readiness programs, and access to health services. It is worth emphasizing that all residents of Rhode Island regardless of ZIP code deserve access to nutritious food, stable housing, preventive care, and opportunities across generations. All of us at the DaVinci Center hope that our leaders will pay attention not only to new research in academia or downtown development, but also to neighborhoods like the North End of Providence. After all, policies are not just plans they are commitments to dignity, equity, and the future of our communities. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Some 1,400 people, mainly civilians, were reported killed during the violence that primarily targeted Alawite communities, and reports of violations continue. War crimes were likely committed by both members of the interim government forces and fighters loyal to Syria's former rulers during a major outbreak of sectarian violence in Syria's coastal areas that culminated in a series of March massacres, a UN team of investigators found in a report on Thursday. Some 1,400 people, mainly civilians, were reported killed during the violence that primarily targeted Alawite communities, and reports of violations continue, according to a report by the UN Syria Commission of Inquiry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incidents in the coastal region were the worst violence to hit Syria since the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad last year, prompting the interim government to name a fact-finding committee. Abu Ali al-Khair, a resident of Jableh, inspects his damaged house, as Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa grapples with the fallout from reported mass killings of Alawite minority members, in Jableh, Syria March 12, 2025. (credit: Karam al-Masri/Reuters) A Reuters investigation found 1,479 Syrian Alawites were killed and dozens were missing from 40 distinct sites of revenge killings, rampages and looting. Five major groups were involved in the mass killings that followed in Alawite towns and neighborhoods, many of which were struck by multiple groups over three days: HTS Units These include Unit 400, the Othman Brigade, and its main law enforcement body, known as the General Security Service. Reuters found their involvement in at least 10 sites, where nearly 900 people were killed. Before Assad fell, the GSS was the main HTS law enforcement arm in the province of Idlib under its control. It is now part of Syria's Interior Ministry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2020, the UN described deeply troubling reports of executions and abuses at the hands of HTS law enforcement authorities. Human Rights Watch documented how HTS, then known as the Nusra Front, killed 149 Alawites in summary executions in Latakia in 2013. Unit 400 is mentioned in a handful of online posts, none of them from official Syrian government accounts. Several of them posted in early December, using identical language, say Unit 400 fighters were being deployed to western Syria. The posts describe Unit 400 as "among the strongest units" in Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, having received "high levels of training and equipped with the most modern weaponry." Unit 400 was moved to the coastal regions after Assad's fall, according to multiple witnesses and a member of the unit. A foreign intelligence source said the unit set up its headquarters in the former Syrian naval academy and answers only to the top levels of the Defense Ministry. Turkish-backed militias Over the past decade, Turkey launched military incursions in Syria and backed rebels there to oppose both Assad and Kurdish forces it deems a threat. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These factions were part of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, Syrias second largest opposition coalition. SNA factions have a track record of abductions, sexual violence and widespread looting, according to Human Rights Watch and other rights groups. Among those Turkey backed during the civil war were the Sultan Suleiman Shah Brigade and the Hamza division. In the Alawite killings, Reuters found the involvement of those two groups in at least eight different sites where nearly 700 people were killed. On his Facebook page, a militiaman affiliated with the Sultan Suleiman Shah division posted: Turn off cameras. Kill every male. Their blood is as dirty as pigs. Sunni factions These include the anti-Assad rebel forces of Jayish al-Islam, Jayish al-Ahrar and Jayish al-Izza. Reuters found they were present in at least four sites where nearly 350 people were killed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2013, Jayish al-Islam captured a number of Alawite women and men and put them in large metal cages to use as human shields from Syrian and Russian airstrikes in Damascus. The group is also blamed by rights groups for the disappearance of prominent activists during the revolution. Foreign fighters These include the Turkistan Islamic Party, or TIP, Uzbeks, Chechens, and some Arab fighters in six sites where Reuters found nearly 500 people were killed. Armed Sunni civilians Sectarian bitterness stemming from years of civil war and Assad's abuses led people to attack neighboring villages and neighborhoods of Alawites, a minority linked to the Assad family. Reuters found the two main sites of these revenge killings were the village of Arza and in the city of Baniyas, where a total of 300 people were killed. Sean Charles Dunn appears to approach officers while holding a sandwich A man who threw a sandwich at a border agent in Washington DC has been fired by the US attorney general after being identified as a justice department employee. Sean Charles Dunn was arrested and charged with assault after allegedly hurling a wrapped Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officer on Sunday. Demonstrators have taken to the streets of Washington DC accusing Donald Trump of seeking to institute martial law after the president took federal control of the citys police force and deployed 800 National Guard officers this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He has also flooded the streets with hundreds of federal agents from agencies including CBP, FBI and Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Footage posted on social media shows the man later named as Mr Dunn standing face-to-face with officers, wearing a pink shirt and shorts with a wrapped sandwich in his hand. He then throws the sandwich into the chest of an agent, before fleeing down the street as he is pursued by several officers. The footage does not capture his arrest. DC man charged with felony assault charges after assaulting a federal agent with a Subway sandwich pic.twitter.com/0ZOyfkEQgF Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) August 14, 2025 Mr Dunn, 37, of Washington, was an international affairs specialist in the justice departments criminal division, according to an official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel matter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pam Bondi, the US attorney general, commented on the assault saying: This is an example of the Deep State we have been up against for seven months as we work to refocus DOJ. You will NOT work in this administration while disrespecting our government and law enforcement. According to court documents filed on Wednesday, Mr Dunn approached law enforcement officers on 14th and U Street in North West Washington, shouting obscenities and calling them fascists. Sean Charles Dunn (left) is arrested after allegedly hurling a wrapped Subway sandwich at an officer - Andrew Leyden/2025 Getty Images Shortly after 11pm, he is alleged to have thrown a sandwich at one of the officers, before being arrested and charged assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and employees of the United States. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mr Dunn is said to have admitted to one of his arresting officers: I did it. I threw a sandwich. Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for the District of Columbia and a former Fox News host, announced on social media on Wednesday that he had been charged with assaulting an officer. An individual went up to one of the federal law enforcement officers and started jumping up and down and screaming at him berating him yelling at him, she claimed in a video posted on X. Then he took a subway sandwich and took it and threw it at the officer. He thought it was funny. Well he doesnt think its funny today, because we charged him with a felony assault on a police officer, and were going to back the police to the hilt. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So there stick your Subway sandwich somewhere else. Mr Dunn appears to hurl the sandwich at a border agent Protests broke out around 14th Street on Wednesday night after law enforcement set up a vehicle checkpoint, with demonstrators shouting: Go home, fascists and Get off our streets. Some stood in front of the checkpoint and urged drivers to turn back. Mr Trump said on Wednesday he would seek to extend his control of DCs police force, which is currently being commanded by Ms Bondi, beyond the 30-day limit set out in law. Doing so would require backing from Congress, where the president said he expected Republicans to approve this pretty much unanimously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, DC police announced plans to establish a juvenile curfew area in the south east of the city, where under-18s will be banned from gathering in groups of nine or more between 11pm and 6am from Friday to Monday. Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said law enforcement had made 49 arrests in Washington on Wednesday night and removed 29 illegal immigrants. 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. (Getty Images) Language interpreters for Washington states labor agency sued last year alleging they were owed hundreds of thousands of dollars in missed payments. More than a year later, they say the issue still hasnt been resolved. When they filed suit, the interpreters for the state Department of Labor and Industries alleged they were owed more than 3,500 payments, ranging from $6 to $494, totaling $280,000, dating back to 2021. The unpaid work continues to pile up for language access providers, according to a spokesperson for their union, Interpreters United. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Specifically, these interpreters serve those injured while working for an employer that is self-insured and does not participate in Washingtons workers compensation system. Such companies must pay for medical services, including interpretation assistance, needed after workplace injuries. Self-insurance allows the employers, including companies like Walmart, Costco and Tyson as well as some local school districts, to exert more control over workers compensation claims. The Department of Labor and Industries still manages the claims. It contracts with an outside company to handle the scheduling and paying of interpreters for self-insured claims. Until June 2024, that company was InterpretingWorks, which is named as a defendant in the ongoing wage theft lawsuit. Last year, L&I switched to SOS International, or SOSi. Self-insured employers are required to compensate the interpreters through the outside company that acts as a middleman. The union is pushing Labor and Industries to pressure those firms to pay up. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement L&I has the authority and obligation to require self-insured companies to pay the compensation owed to LAPs, but has failed, refused, and neglected to do so, reads last years lawsuit filed in Thurston County Superior Court. Labor and Industries spokesperson Matt Ross said the agency has the same goal as the interpreters: We want to see them get paid what they are owed. Some interpreters dont want to work with the agency any more. I used to do a lot of interpreting for injured workers for L&I, but stopped doing it for over a year now, union president Quan Tran said in a statement. Barbara Robertson, a Swahili interpreter, said its utterly ironic that the agency that investigates and litigates wage theft does not guarantee that interpreters will be paid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Frankly, Im not inclined to interpret again for a client whose insurer hasnt paid me, she said. Ross, from L&I, said in an email, Were working hard to find a resolution for those cases where interpreters havent been paid. The agencys new vendor, SOS International, has also contracted with the federal government to provide interpreters for immigration court proceedings. In 2017, the National Labor Relations Board found SOSi had misclassified those interpreters as independent contractors, enabling the Virginia-based company to avoid giving them benefits like overtime pay. A SOSi spokesperson said the company is committed to ensuring we meet our obligations to pay interpreters in accordance with the terms of our contract with the State. The company wasnt named as a defendant in last years lawsuit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Ross said since changing vendors interpreters are being paid on time. The number of interpreters providing services for workers has also more than doubled, from 254 last June to 520 today, he said Wednesday. InterpretingWorks CEO Marisa Gillio said if interpreters didnt get paid, neither did we. Even after our contract ended over a year ago, weve continued processing invoices and ensuring interpreters are paid as soon as the funds come in, Gillio said in a statement. The contract interpreters for Labor and Industries had long fought for union representation. Last year, they secured their first contract with the state. It provides a 6.5% pay increase in the current two-year state budget. The union represents about 1,400 interpreters who work with state government, including L&I and other agencies, said spokesperson Patrick Sugrue. Correction: A previous version of this article said the interpreters contract provided a 5% pay increase. It was 6.5%. A 61-year-old resident of Washington was killed Aug. 9 on Interstate 5 when the vehicle he was driving on Interstate 5 overturned near County Road 33 near Artois. According to the California Highway Patrol Willows Office, the Puyallup, Wash,, man was driving a 2006 Ford Mustang south on the freeway in the lefthand lane when around 3:05 p.m. the vehicle went onto the roadways edge and into the median, CHP said. The driver lost control of the Mustang as it continued to travel in a northwesterly direction and overturned coming to rest blocking both southbound lanes. Although wearing a seatbelt, the driver suffered fatal injuries in the crash, the CHP reported. MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) Texas non-profit organization, Produced Water Society is a 501 (c) (3) organization focused on educating the energy industry on an often overlooked, yet critical, part of the day-to-day operations of oil and gas productionwater. Not too long ago, gas was a byproduct of the waste that was just burned offNow its a whole market sector. So I believe water will follow somewhat that same pathSo I think it is key that we address it properly now and use the water wisely, explained President, Steve Coffee. For more information about the Texas Produced Water Society CLICK HERE. August 11th 13th, The Bush Convention Center in Midland has assisted in hosting the organization with its 10th annual Permian Basin Conference and Exhibition. This event helps bring together industry professionals and policymakers to think about solutions to the abundance of water produced for energy needs. Volunteer for the Produced Water Society, Raj Ghimire, tells ABC Big 2s Chris Talley about the environmental impacts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because of the sheer volume of water that we are producing today, whats happening is that we are seeing more and more environmental impacts within the surface. So, we are seeing more and more seismic activity, which pretty much what the industry and the community is concerned of. Were also seeing that some of this porous space is being filled up, so we are running out of space to dispose this water, said Ghimire. If we cannot manage this water in a sustainable way, then soon well have to think about how can we be energy independent, said Ghimire. State funded organizations like The Texas Produced Water Consortium are helping bring solutions to the forefront said Director, Shane Walker. The Texas legislature has funded research through Texas Tech for the Texas Produced Water Consortium to look at confirming clean and safe water, making sure that were protecting people and the environment, the land, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The TxPWC was established in 2021 as part of Senate Bill 601 to provide more information and studies on water reuse. Walker said what these studies could consist of. Theres some great opportunities for desalinated produced water to be used to irrigate crops or restore rangeland. It could be discharged in the Pecos River [to increase flow], which could benefit hundreds of thousands of downstream beneficiaries, explained Walker. Walker said that information on Texas Tech studies should be available by 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 Yourbasin. Aug. 14 (UPI) -- A New Jersey State Police trooper came to the rescue of a stray cat found stranded next to a barrier wall on a busy stretch of highway. The Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge said on social media that state police were alerted to the presence of a cat stranded next to fast-moving traffic on Highway 280 in Newark. "Somehow, state troopers reached him in time and were able to corral him to safety," refuge officials wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Troopers contacted Paterson Animal Control, which put them in touch with the Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge. The cat, now named Conan, was examined by a refuge veterinarian. "Incredibly, he escaped with only a painful laceration over his eye," the post said. "He is not microchipped, and we have no way to identify Conan or discover how he ended up in such a horribly precarious situation." Conan is now recovering from his injury. "Despite it all, Conan is gentle, shy and so grateful for the kindness that saved him," officials wrote. As President Donald Trump cracks down on crime and rampant homelessness in Washington, D.C., homeless individuals weighed in on what they think of the administrations efforts to clean up the streets. The White House says those living in homeless encampments in the nation's capital will have two choices in the coming days: accept treatment at a homeless shelter or go to jail. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced the ultimatum during a Tuesday press conference as reporters prodded about President Donald Trump's federal takeover of Washington, D.C.'s law enforcement. She said many of the homeless encampments across the city have already been dismantled, and those that remain she expected to be dealt with this week. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Seventy homeless encampments have been removed by the U.S. Park Police," Leavitt said, adding that the Metropolitan Police Department would be joining the Park Police in the effort. "There are only two homeless encampments remaining in D.C. federal parks under the National Park Service's jurisdiction, and the removal of those two remaining camps is scheduled for this week." Homeless People In Dc Have 2 Choices As Trump Admin Cracks Down Asked about what options are available to those in homeless encampments, Leavitt was blunt: "Homeless shelters, for addiction and mental health services, or jail if they refuse, are the options on the table right now." Read On The Fox News App Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fox News Digital spoke with several homeless individuals on the streets of Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, some of whom voiced concern and others support for the changes. One homeless man, who identified himself as Kenny and lives near Dupont Circle, told Fox News Digital that Trump is right to address the issues in D.C. after the city government "failed tremendously." "I think the D.C. government has failed tremendously over the years," said Kenny. "And it's evident that we need somebody like a big daddy Donald Trump to step in there and smack the s*** out of them liberals and kick them the f*** out." Republicans Ready To Support Trump's Move To Skirt Congress In Dc Crime Crackdown Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another man, who did not give his name but also lives by Dupont, took a very different tone. "This is awful, it's like what the hell, where does he get the authority? You know what I mean?" he said. "We're people too," he went on. "Just because I'm homeless doesn't mean I have to leave; we have a right to be here too." Another, named Dallas, who was sitting on a park bench near the Capitol, told Fox News Digital that though "Im for him," he was not sure about Trumps threats to federalize D.C. Dallas said that, in his view, before the homeless can be cleared off the streets, the shelters in the area need to improve to meet some type of federal standard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dc Mayor Reverses Course On Trump Intervention, Downplays City Crime Members of the U.S. National Guard walk towards the D.C. Armory after U.S. President Donald Trump announced federal take over of the Metropolitan Police Department under the Home Rule Act and the deployment of the National Guard to assist in crime prevention in the nation's capital, in Washington, D.C., August 12, 2025. "If the homeless want to stay and make something of their life, they only have 30 days to do it. And that's not near enough time to get the job, get your own apartment, get things lined up," he said. "You want a set of wheels? That's going to cost some money. So, in the long run, the shelters are falling short. So that would have to be addressed also." Elsewhere in the city, a man named Shahid told Fox News Digital that he believes "time will tell that its a bad decision or a good decision." "He's the president now. Ultimately, he is representing the people of the United States," said Shahid, adding, "He just became president now, and he was chosen by the people." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "So, either the election system is failing us, or he might be doing the right thing. I don't know, ultimately time will tell." Original article source: WATCH: DC homeless weigh in on Trump cleaning up city streets The United States has drawn up a strict timeline to investigate Kenyas alleged connections to al-Shabaab and other armed groups, while reviewing its privileged status as a major non-North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally. According to the Congressional Record Vol. 171, U.S. Senator James Risch recently introduced an amendment authorizing funding for military activities, defense-related operations, and military personnel levels for the 2026 fiscal year. Once the amendment becomes law, the Secretary of State will team up with the Secretary of Defense, the Treasury Secretary, and the Director of National Intelligence to launch a comprehensive review of Kenyas designation granted on June 24, 2024. Under the law, the review must begin within 90 days of enactment. A classified report containing the findings will be delivered to key congressional committees within 180 days. Scope of the Review The report will examine Kenyas record as a U.S. security partner, focusing on its role in combating violent extremism, promoting peace in Sub-Saharan Africa, and contributing troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions, including the ongoing deployment to Haiti. It will also assess Kenyas importance as a U.S. economic partner. A key part of the investigation will be Kenyas military, security, political, and financial relationships with China, Russia, and Iran. The review will document any agreements, joint military drills, debt arrangements, or infrastructure deals made since June 2024. Washington will also scrutinize Nairobis participation in Beijings Belt and Road Initiative and other commercial ties. The inquiry will dig into alleged links between Kenya and non-state armed groups, such as Sudans Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Somalia-based al-Shabaab. Investigators will also probe Kenyas financial systems to determine if they provide safe havens for sanctioned individuals, foreign terrorist groups, or entities blacklisted by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control. Additionally, the review will determine the use of American security aid and intelligence aid by Kenya i.e., whether these funds have been linked with civilian abuses in the form of kidnappings, torture, renditions, or extrajudicial killings. Diplomatic Stakes The review comes at a delicate moment in Washington-Nairobi relations. Downgrade or withdrawal of Kenyas major non-NATO ally status would be a setback for the countrys global image and security cooperation with Washington. President William Ruto has defended his decision to strengthen trade with China, stressing that Beijing recently scrapped tariffs on key Kenyan exports such as tea, coffee, and avocados a deal he called a historic breakthrough for farmers and exporters. Gachaguas Explosive Allegations Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has taken a starkly different stance, openly supporting Washingtons decision to review the alliance. He argues the move is necessary to investigate alleged police brutality, abductions, torture, and killings under the Kenya Kwanza administration. While touring the United States, Gachagua alleged that President Ruto secretly met with three al-Shabaab operatives at night to discuss business and accused him of funding Sudans RSF militia. He further claimed that five chiefs abducted in Mandera in February 2025 were released in April 2025 after negotiations between the Kenyan government and al-Shabaab. The Interior CS knows much more on who the leaders of Al-Shabaab are because he said publicly that he will initiate negotiations. The five chiefs were released after successful negotiations with Al-Shabaab, Gachagua said. He is in a better position to tell the people of Kenya and Americans who the Al-Shabaab leaders are because he has already had successful business with them. Gachagua has vowed to assist U.S. investigators in probing Kenyas alleged dealings with both al-Shabaab and the RSF, potentially deepening the rift within Kenyas political leadership as Washingtons review moves forward. Credit: Hellenic Red Cross / Reuters Livestock owners rallied to rescue their sheep and horses from raging wildfires in Greece. In the island of Chios, a man was filmed trying to calm at least two frightened horses as smoke and flames engulfed groves of olive trees, while in Patras, western Greece, sheep were scooped up in the arms of moped drivers to remove them from the thick, black smoke. Wildfires have devastated vast swathes of southern Europe in the past few days, from Portugal in the west to the Balkans in the east. Moped riders carried sheep away from the spreading fire in Patras city - Thanassis Stavrakis/AP In Greece, around 150 new fires have broken out in the past couple of days. Chios, in the northern Aegean close to the coast of Turkey, was one of the areas hardest hit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nearly 5,000 firefighters have been deployed to tackle the blazes. Two planes and six helicopters were also sent to the area. One fire, which broke out on Wednesday, scorched around 4,000 hectares of countryside in the north-west of the island. Vast areas of Greece have been destroyed in the wildfires - AFP Konstantinos Rymikis, the deputy mayor of the town of Amani, said: We evacuated all 19 villages in the area and rescued residents and visitors who were in danger. Houses, caravans, and cars have burned. The situation is dramatic. The fire front stretches more than 30 kilometres and has devastated much of the mountainous, sparsely populated region, he told Kathimerini, a Greek newspaper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The damage has been so extensive that it could mark the end for the region, he said. Chios is famous for producing mastic, a resinous gum that comes from the bark of the mastic tree. The islands 1.4 million mastic trees have not been burnt but the fires in the north of the island will have an impact on the sector, said Giorgos Toumpos, president of the Chios Mastic Producers Union. Deforestation in the north will affect the microclimate and will certainly impact our crops, he said. Firefighters in Patras work to control the blaze on Wednesday night - ARIS MESSINIS/Getty Fires have also devastated parts of the popular tourist island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Sea, burning about 1,700 hectares of land, according to the National Observatory of Athens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greek authorities believe that many of the fires were started deliberately and arson investigations are under way in several parts of the country. In Zakynthos, a 59-year-old person is suspected of starting at least one fire. Other blazes are suspected to have been caused by sparks from high voltage electricity lines. Police said they had arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of starting one of four fires that erupted near Patras earlier this week. Greek officials have issued a very high risk warning for several regions on Thursday, from the islands of Lemnos and Evia to the regions of Attica and Corinth. Olive trees have been particularly at risk from the fires over the past few weeks - ARIS MESSINIS/AFP The situation in Greeces main port to Italy was much improved after overnight operations, Vassilis Vathrakogiannis, the fire department spokesman, said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Firefighters in Patras were facing scattered pockets of flames, but the fire was still active in the eastern outskirts of the city of over 200,000 inhabitants, he said. In Spain, one person battling a wildfire in the north-west Leon region died, raising the death toll from the summers fire season to three. Nicanor Sen Velez, the prefect for Castile and Leon, wrote on X: Today, we mourn a new death of a person who was part of the firefighting operation in the province of Leon, more specifically in the Valderia region. Fernando Grande-Marlaska, the Spanish interior minister, confirmed the death to the public broadcaster, while offering condolences to the victims family, colleagues and community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The death comes just after the interior minister had appealed to the European Union for help in fighting the fires. 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) Republicans took their turn at the Illinois State Fair to call out Illinois Democrats for what the GOP says is making Illinois a challenging place to raise a family and do business. Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, criticized Illinois Democrats on Thursday, the day after Governors Day at the Illinois State Fair. Importing crazy policies from California and New York, Democrats have driven out jobs. They have raised your taxes year after year, and Democrats have turned Illinois into the abortion and illegal immigration capital of the Midwest and close to being in the nation, McCombie told rally goers. But there is good news. Illinois is waking up. Oh, we are awake. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement McCombie said President Donald Trump gained ground in Illinois, getting more votes than any Republican in 20 years. Why did that happen? Because working families want safety. They want affordability. And they want leaders who work for them and not for a woke agenda, she said. A big question is who will surface to be the Republican candidate to take on incumbent Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who is seeking a third term amid questions hes vying to run for the White House. Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, said whoever surfaces to be the partys candidate needs to be sharp in criticizing Pritzker. To talk about, you know, the lack of opportunity in Illinois, the disinvestment in Illinois, the wayward economic policies of J.B. Pritzker, Curran told The Center Square. And as he's looking to run nationally and leaning further and further left and more progressive, he is not putting Illinois first. And we need a candidate with a strong voice that is going to hold him accountable on that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A couple of names that have surfaced to possibly get the Republican Partys nomination for governor stopped by the fairgrounds. One candidate thats announced hes running is DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick. He said he has the political chops to navigate the Democrat controlled state as a Republican candidate. I've been dealing with these people. I know how it works. I know how politics work out here, Mendrick told reporters. I think I can do a lot better than most other candidates because I think everyone's done with dealing with just politicians. Someone else exploring a bid for the partys nomination for governor is Wirepoints President Ted Dabrowski. He said hell make an announcement on his intentions soon. As someone who analyzes Illinois economic condition, Dabrowski said he knows the solutions to what ails the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We should be a top five state in the country for growth, for opportunity, for education. We're a bottom five state. We should be a top five state. We need to flip all the policies around, Dabrowski told The Center Square. People are hurting and people are forced to leave. That's why we're losing people. We should be winning people. Other names are expected to surface. The filing period for the March 17 primary begins Oct. 27. An invasive tick species is creeping its way into more parts of the country as warming temperatures help it spread a little-known infection that can leave people with debilitating symptoms and, in rare cases, dead. In May, scientists at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in New Haven discovered for the first time that the longhorned tick had become a carrier for the bacterium that causes the Ehrlichiosis infection. With cases already on the rise, that was a big cause of concern. I am afraid to say that it is a storm brewing, said Goudarz Molaei, the director of the labs tick-testing program. Climate change eventually will almost eliminate winter in our region. And this tick, like other tick species, will be active year-round. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Warming temperatures, which have already translated into shorter winters, allow the longhorned tick and other tick species to wake up early from hibernation, increasing the risk of getting bitten. The longhorned tick, which is native to East Asia, first invaded places like Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands. It has now been detected in at least 21 states, with Michigan reporting its first sighting at the end of June. Researchers arent sure how the tick made it to the United States, but its likely it arrived on the backs of imported livestock or other animals. Goudarz Molaei, an entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, discovered Ehrlichia chaffeensis in longhorned ticks. The pathogen can cause a potentially deadly tick-borne disease known as Ehrlichiosis. (Nidhi Sharma / NBC News) In 2017, scientists identified the countrys first longhorned tick in New Jersey, though its likely the species has been in the United States since at least 2010. The fact it was here for so long without us actually knowing about it was really a wakeup call, said Dana Price, an associate research professor in the entomology department at Rutgers University. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Modeling indicates areas from southern Canada throughout the continental United States are environmentally suitable to the longhorned tick. That means the threat is twofold: The longhorneds geographic range is expanding, and so is the time that its active and able to transmit disease, scientists said. Ehrlichiosis is becoming so prevalent that there is a region of the country unofficially named after it: The Ehrlichiosis Belt stretches from as far north as Connecticut and New York to as far west as Arkansas. The lone star and blacklegged ticks have long carried Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the bacterium that causes Ehrlichiosis. The infection sends about 60% of patients to the hospital and kills about 1 in 100 patients, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Infected people will typically experience fever, chills, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue one to two weeks after having been bitten. But if people arent treated quickly, the infection can sometimes lead to brain and nervous system damage, respiratory failure, uncontrolled bleeding and organ failure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The number of Ehrlichiosis cases has risen steadily since 2000, when the CDC reported 200 cases, compared with 2,093 in 2019. Studies suggest that the number of annual Ehrlichiosis cases is grossly underreported, with one study from Rutgers University researchers saying 99% of cases go undetected. Researchers collect longhorned ticks to test for Ehrlichia chaffeensis. (Nidhi Sharma / NBC News) The CDC reported this month that there were more emergency room visits in July for tick bites than the past eight Julys. In early July, officials closed Pleasure Beach, a popular swim spot in Bridgeport, Connecticut, for the summer after they discovered an infestation of several tick species, including the longhorned tick. Manisha Juthani, the commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, said that as climate change makes tick season less predictable, Connecticut residents should take precautions like wearing long pants and tucking them into their socks and conducting tick checks on family members and pets after having been outdoors for extended periods of time. The reality is that with the changes were seeing in climate, we have to be more prepared and more aware of the infections and the pathogens that we can be exposed to by being outside and potentially being aware of the things that can really cause the most harm to people, Juthani said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While longhorned ticks often prefer the blood of livestock to humans, entomologists say their unique biology makes them a formidable public health hazard. They can establish populations of thousands from a single female because, like bees, they have the ability to reproduce without mates. They can also ingest and become carriers for pathogens typically carried by other tick species if they happen to feed on the same host. The process, known as co-feeding transmission, is common among most tick species. Molaei said his recent discovery of the Ehrlichiosis-causing bacterium in the longhorned tick raises concerns about what other pathogens the tick may be able to contract and transmit to humans. The longhorned tick and the lone star tick, one of the original carriers of Ehrlichia, both feed on similar hosts, like white-tailed deer. Jennifer Platt contracted Ehrlichiosis in 2011 and was treated with antibiotics for several months. (Courtesy Jennifer Platt) We live in this part of the world with several important tick species, and we have to learn how to live with this many ticks, Molaei said. And the key is to protect ourselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The World Health Organization reports that more than 17% of infectious diseases globally are transmitted through vectors, intermediary animals that ferry viruses, bacteria and other pathogens from one animal to the next. Tick-borne diseases in the United States accounted for 77% of vector-borne disease reports from 2004 to 2016, with cases more than doubling in the last 13 years, according to data collected by the CDC. Jennifer Platt was bitten by a tick during that time. She contracted Ehrlichiosis from a tick bite in North Carolina in the summer of 2011. When she couldnt pick up and carry her 2-year-old son, a friend who is a nurse suggested she go to the hospital immediately. The friend suspected Platt might have a tick-borne infection. Platt was sick and on antibiotics for months after her diagnosis. Her shoulder locked because of the infection a rare but contractable chronic symptom of tick-borne disease leading to months of physical therapy and putting her out of work for three months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It took her more than a year to fully recover from the lasting impacts of the infection. The best way Id describe it, she said, is I felt like death. A few years after she started feeling better, she was diagnosed with Lyme and Babesiosis diseases which she attributes to the same tick bite. Platt, who co-founded the nonprofit advocacy organization Tick-Borne Conditions United, said she hopes the recent discovery of the Ehrlichia bacterium in the longhorned tick will help raise awareness among doctors and the general public about the threat of tick-borne diseases, especially little-known ones like Ehrlichiosis. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My mission in life is to support people in being who they are, Platt said. And if youre sick from a tick-borne disease, you cant be who you are. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com California Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke to reporters Thursday afternoon as the mid-decade redistricting battle heats up across the U.S. ahead of the 2026 midterms, a day after announcing the Liberation Day event. His remarks came as Democrats push back against GOP gerrymandering efforts in Texas that could give Republicans five additional seats in next years election. Newsom sent a letter to President Trump and red state leaders earlier this week urging them to end the redistricting war. After Trump missed the deadline to respond, the governor said the Golden State would also redraw its House maps to counteract attempts to rig the lines in the Lone Star State. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The event was scheduled to begin at 2:30 p.m. EDT. Watch the video replay above. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. UPDATED: 10:53 a.m. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A major change is coming to the University of South Dakotas medical school. In an announcement at the Canopy by Hilton hotel in downtown Sioux Falls Thursday, officials announced plans to move South Dakotas lone medical school to Sioux Falls from Vermillion. SFPD: Almost 50 EBT cardholders scammed USD President Sheila Gestring made the announcement that the first 18 months of USDs doctor program will move starting in summer 2027. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sioux Falls is a hub for health care and health care education, Gestring said. This is a historic day, Board of Regents (BOR) President Tim Rave said. Rave also serves as the President and CEO of South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations. Rave and Nathan Lukkes, the BOR executive director, said the BOR supports the move. Shuree Mortenson, the director of communications for the BOR, said Thursday afternoon the BOR did not need to officially approve the medical school move. The BORs role is to address items such as leases, construction and similar going forward, she said. Gestring said in an interview after the news conference that she had been in contact with BOR members about the the medical center move and knew there was support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement USDs medical school already has part of its program in Sioux Falls that includes those early students commuting from Vermillion to Sioux Falls. Republican Gov. Larry Rhoden said it was an exciting announcement. Rhoden said he recognizes how hard it can be to provide healthcare to rural communities. Thats why todays announcement is so important, Rhoden said. The students will have more opportunities and develop closer ties to our South Dakota health systems. Rhoden said he believes more doctors will choose to stay in South Dakota after graduating. Sanford School of Medicine Dean Dr. Tim Ridgway said the move cant happen without alignment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State legislators by and large have bought into this, Ridgway said. Ridgway said the move to Sioux Falls doesnt diminish the medical schools commitment to rural health. He said a new medical school building could be completed in seven to 10 years. Theres a lot that has to come together, Ridgway said. The Lee Memorial Medicine and Science Building on the Vermillion campus was dedicated in 2008 after a $37 million improvement. That process included the demolition of the former Andrew E. Lee Memorial Medicine and Science Hall, which was constructed in 1952. T. Denny Sanford has been a supporter of the medical school which includes a multi-million donation in 2006 which prompted USD to add Sanford to the medical school name. Sanford was in the audience on Thursday. Vermillion Mayor releases statement The mayor of Vermillion said the success of the University of South Dakotas medical school contributes to the school as a whole where Vermillion remains the heart and foundation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State officials announced plans to move South Dakotas lone medical school to Sioux Falls from Vermillion on Thursday in Sioux Falls. Vermillion Mayor Jon Cole released a statement shortly after the announcement, saying most medical students already spend three-quarters of their time in Sioux Falls. This move reflects the reality that the larger city offers the medical resources and facilities necessary for that stage of their vital, lifesaving, education, Cole said in a statement. The most difficult part of this decision is its impact on the faculty and staff who have built their careers and lives here in Vermillion. We recognize the Universitys challenging position and understand the factors that led to this choice, but we also know that change is never easy. This is a developing story. KELOLAND News will have more coverage online and on-air. 8 a.m.: A news conference described as a major announcement about health care in South Dakota is set for 10 a.m. Thursday at the Canopy Hotel in Sioux Falls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 10 state inmates to be deported The announcement will include officials from the USD Sanford School of Medicine as well as representatives from the states three largest health care systems, representatives from the South Dakota Board of Regents, (BOR), Gov. Larry Rhoden and Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken, according to an USD news release. Representatives from USD and the other organizations will outline a new vision for medical education and health care in South Dakota, the news release said. In addition to Rhoden and TenHaken, the release has a specific list of attendees to include USD President Sheila K. Gestring, BOR President Tim Rave, Sanford School of Medicine Dean Dr. Tim Ridgway, Sanford Health President & CEO Bill Gassen, Avera St. Benedict Health Center FP/OB Physician and Associate Dean of Rural Medicine Dr. Jason Wickersham and Monument Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brad Archer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. Workers have removed the damaged water mains at Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson that have knocked out service for an estimated 200,000 Passaic County residents since Friday. As of 12 p.m. Thursday, an excavation hole had been dug and the Passaic Valley Water Commission crew was waiting for the replacement pipes to arrive by truck from Alabama, commission Executive Director Jim Mueller said at a news conference. Were starting to recover now with water pressure, trying to get water into places where it wasnt, Mueller said at a noon press conference held high atop a hill on Paterson Avenue on the Haledon border. Most, if not all, of Paterson residents should have water pressure recovering by early this evening. The excavation hole at Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson on Thursday morning, where a broken water main has been removed. At midday, the crew was awaiting the arrival of the new pipes, which are being trucked from Alabama. Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh asked residents to continue conserving water. Were making progress. Were not back to normal yet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mueller said recovery is not the same thing as restoration of water service. He estimated that tens of thousands of Paterson residents whose taps were dry have now recovered some water pressure, but restoration of service was still days away. The same holds true for Haledon, North Haledon, and Prospect Park, he said. Mueller was hoping the new pipes would arrive on Thursday afternoon. Only after they are cut and installed will things begin to return to normal, which will take several days, he said. I understand the frustration, Mueller said. We want to get them water as soon as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Water distribution sites in Paterson, Haledon, North Haledon, and Prospect Park will remain open through the weekend. A comfort station with showers at John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson will remain open, as will the mobile shower unit that Prospect Park has set up outside its elementary school on Brown Avenue. Paterson has set up a hotline for seniors and disabled people to order water deliveries to their home. The number is 973-321-1410. Police in Haledon, North Haledon and Prospect Park are also delivering water to shut-ins. Haledon residents can pick up water and shower at the recreation center at 83 Roe St. They can also pick up water at Manchester Regional High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Haledon residents can pick up bottled water at the public works yard on Willowbrook Court. Volunteers Ruth Birch (left) and Liz Rodriguez Smith filling up a water bucket at the distribution center at the Prospect Park municipal building. Prospect Park, with about 6,000 residents, has distributed an average of 22 pallets of bottled water a day and 4,000 gallons of potable water a day, volunteers said. In the meantime, the boiled water advisory remains in effect and people are being asked to conserve water. The Passaic County Department of Health initially ordered establishments that prepare food to close, but in recent days, many have reopened. In Haledon, a popular bar, Jimmy Geez, has brought in its own water truck on Tuesday. Owner Jimmy Garruto said he relies on the water truck mainly to flush the toilets and is using paper cups to conserve water. Were still tweaking with it, but it works pretty well, he said. At least were open. Jimmy Garruto, the owner of Jimmy Geez Sports Bar and Grill in Haledon, has kept the bar open using 1,000 gallon water tank parked in the driveway. A car wash on Union Avenue in Paterson was doing a robust business on Thursday. Sayegh, Patersons mayor, said the business can stay open because a state of emergency hasnt been declared. We dont have the power to shut them down, Sayegh said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com. At Goldfish Swim School, the pool area is sparkling and new, amidst the bright colors of the schools tropical theme. But in the office of the schools new location on Ballenger Center Drive in Frederick, boxes and supplies are still scattered about. Fredericks newest swimming school officially opened Monday, offering swimming and water safety lessons to children ages 4 months to 12 years. A large mural with various marine animals covers one of the walls of the schools heated pool and pool deck. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The schools lessons arent just about teaching students to swim, but how to help themselves in the water, said Abby Wheeler, the schools general manager. The first thing students learn is how to roll over in the water and sustain a float, she said, as well as how to pull themselves out of the water without a ladder or other device, and how to tread water. We truly believe in water safety and how important it is to educate that, Wheeler said. Its important to get children comfortable and acclimated to water as early as possible, since drowning is the most common cause of accidental death for children under age 4, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Goldfish is one of the swim schools that have come to Frederick County in recent months. Serenity Swimming opened in early June in a space on Aviation Way, near Frederick Municipal Airport. Its pool runs from 3 feet deep to 7 feet, to allow for areas where students can stand and areas to teach diving and treading water, owner Jenni Hoover said Wednesday. If you cant tread, you really dont know how to swim, she said. It offers a class for 1- to 3-year olds, while the schools other programs are for children 3 and up. Each child learns at their own pace and in their own way. Serenity can tailor lessons to each childs needs, Hoover said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some children start off scared of the water; others are a little too attracted to the water, and they have to work on water safety skills right away, she said. Serenity is independently owned. Goldfish is part of a chain of schools. Both Wheeler and Hoover said their businesses saw Frederick as an area that was underserved by facilities for teaching swimming. Hoover said that after doing her research, she thought an independent school would allow her to take a more personalized approach with her students. The British Swim School is also new to Frederick, opening in February in the Onelife Fitness facility on Osprey Way in Frederick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it serves everyone from 6 months to adults, most students are ages 6 months to 12 years, Francis Koh of the school said Monday. As Frederick Countys population has grown, the area has started to show up on national companies radar for opening schools, he said. I think the demographics are there, he said. Schools mentioned the importance of keeping up with swimming lesson after the summer is over, when Koh said they can often get lost in the bustle of returning to school and other activities. Fall and winter lessons are important to keep skills from deteriorating Hoover said. While some people may assume that lessons are mainly for children, several local schools offer training for adults as well. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some students are adults who never learned to swim when they were younger. Others have children who are learning to swim and want to swim along with them and keep them safe in the water, said Rebecca Eckhardt, the manager at Kids First Swim School, in Francis Scott Key Mall in Frederick. Others may want to join the Navy or the Marine Corps and have to learn how to swim, she said. And some people just do it for the exercise, she said. Other people might have had it on their bucket list of things to do, or they are going on a vacation where there will be lots of water activities, Koh said. They also might want to be able to swim with their children. Theyre getting alerted to the seriousness of learning how to swim, he said. Recently, we wrote about Republican Pennsylvania lawmaker Jesse Topper, who, back in June, gave remarks to the state's House of Representatives advocating against raising the minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 an hour. Sanghwan Kim / Getty Images "Not every wage, and please hear me clearly on this," Topper says in a viral clip. PA House of Representatives / Via Facebook: RepTopper "Not every wage is designed to be a livable wage." PA House of Representatives / Via Facebook: RepTopper He goes on to give examples of his point, like a teenager or a retired person working for income they don't technically need to survive. PA House of Representatives / Via Facebook: RepTopper Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The BuzzFeed Community had a WHOLEEE lot to say about Topper's comments, so let's get into it: 1."One thing I'll never understand is the idea that some jobs are 'supposed' to be for students trying to make money. Dude, who do you think is going to make your mid-morning coffee or make your fast-food lunch when STUDENTS ARE IN SCHOOL? It's just not feasible! Obviously, some students can make it work and sometimes have to support their parents, unfortunately but there just arent enough people even available for minimum wage jobs. Adults have to do these jobs, too, and not just as 'starter jobs.' They need to make enough money to live, support kids, bills, etc." am301394wne 2."If people who work full-time do not earn enough for them to live on, how are they supposed to survive? One way is by receiving benefits like Section 8, Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC. And I'm sure that this guy wants to cut those benefits. Or eliminate them. So, people who work hard to support themselves should go hungry? Live in their cars? Or the streets?" Hapabapa / Getty Images rutharcone Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 3."If $7.25/hour is an acceptable pay rate to Pennsylvania lawmakers, then why don't they just make that the pay rate for Pennsylvania lawmakers?" pault17 4."Sure, a job that a high schooler or a retiree is working to make extra money doesn't need to pay enough to live off of because they're not working it full-time. If that job IS being worked full-time, that job should have a wage that is able to be lived off of, because whoever is working that job is doing so TO MAKE A LIVING. Any job that hires any employee for 40 hours or more a week needs to pay a living wage." cdel07 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 5."The idiocy is not lost on me that these fast-food workers were considered 'essential' during the lockdown and still had to go to work, yet they aren't 'essential' enough to pay a livable wage to." Newsaetiew / Getty Images jasonr4da82caf9 6."As an introverted disabled retiree, if I ever go back to work, it won't be because I want to. Ive got plenty to do at home, and it would bring me no joy to go back out into the world and deal with assholes all day every day for $7.25/hour." certified_drapetomaniac 7."Let him live off of that wage!" oddpizza968 8."I think he is correct. Growing up as teenagers, we worked at jobs such as waitress, babysitter, pumping gas, cashier, filing paperwork, etc., to gain experience in the working world and also earn a wage to learn how to handle money, learn about taxes, etc. Originally, those types of jobs were not intended to actually support a family. The fact that these jobs are occupied by people who do need them is a sad reflection on our society." Rbkomar / Getty Images smartnugget986 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 9."Since when is a kid saving for college not necessary? Since when is grandma running a cash register at Walmart not needed income? This assholes constituents should send him packing!" sassymagazine958 10."Wow, how truly despicable." yesbutalsonoway 11."Public service should be a minimum wage job. You're supposed to be sacrificing your time and effort for the greater good. So let's start enforcing that." kumamori137 12."I didn't go to college, and I work in childcare, where I make $19.50 an hour. I still can't afford to live on my own, making almost $20 an hour. $7.50 is an absolute fucking joke. How can anyone afford to do anything with that?" Lourdes Balduque / Getty Images redpizza125 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 13."I think all politicians should make minimum wage so they can truly understand how their constituents live. Watch them bitch and moan about not being able to live on $7.25 an hour while the people they represent have to. Don't like it, well then raise the minimum wage." monikap6 14."Love when they say the job is meant for teenagers when those same teenagers are supposed to be in school for most of the hours the job is open. There isn't a fast-food chain in the country that exclusively runs after 3 p.m., and that's without including prep work and opening." gtor Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 15."I wish there would be a major push, worldwide, that politicians get paid whatever the minimum wage is of the region they're representing. They work fewer hours than the average worker. This would help bring back the ideology of the politicians working for the people again. It's become a joke where the majority of them are nepos of some sort who never worked a day in their lives." Kayla Bartkowski / Getty Images animalmagentism 16."Welcome to America, where we work for vibes." purpleshield67 17."That's why it's called the MINIMUM wage. If jobs are difficult or require experience, then they get paid more than that. They make it sound like these employees will suddenly be living in the lap of luxury at $31,200 a year. If your rent is $1,000 (the national average is $1,700), that leaves you with only $19,000 to live on for the whole year before taxes. That doesn't count food, cars, clothes, insurance, phones, etc...." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement rachelhoward211 18."At one time, businesses said they needed slavery so they could continue their lavish lifestyles. I would say if you cannot afford a livable wage to workers, do the work yourself so you can prosper on your own sweat." radiantshark681 19."I am retired and lucky that I am able to manage due to my husband's pension and Social Security income. I went into banking a very long time ago because they had retirement plans, but those were soon disbanded in the late '70s and '80s with the advent of 401(k) programs, so I have both 401(k) and Social Security." Daniel Balakov / Getty Images "My husband and I volunteer at the local retirement center and deliver food for the Meals on Wheels program. The meals cost $4, and some clients cannot even afford this cost, so since this is a 'suggested' amount, they pay what they can or pay $0. Since federal funding was cut by the Trump administration for social programs for counties, funding is no longer available for these senior centers, so now private and commercial donations have to make up the shortfall. I truly believe the Republicans are out of step regarding wages, programs for the needy, and retirees. There are a lot of retirees who have second jobs because their SS does cover their living expenses. Sad." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement skimscissors355 20."I'm really starting to hate Republiclowns. They should all be voted out of office. It kills me to think my tax dollars are paying for assholes like this." grouchyeagle78 21."There shouldn't be a minimum wage. Each job should just pay what the job is worth." purpleorc394 22."Over the past year in Pennsylvania, I've seen the local car wash hiring at $16/hour, and just this week, a relative was hired at a fast-food restaurant for a $15/hour starting wage. Anything less, and these positions stayed vacant. Idiots like this overpaid legislator (in one of Americas largest and overpaid state governments) just show how out of touch our overlords actually are." Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images emoelf137 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 23."They don't want to pay a livable wage, but then they get mad when people need assistance to survive, like Medicaid and food stamps. How do they not realize the cycle they have created? Do you want the guy who can work fast food and do a great job to make a living wage and support himself, or do you want him to not make that and have to apply for government assistance? Or is the truth of it just that you want poor people to die because they arent convenient for you to think about?" "Because guess what those people are the ones who are doing essential jobs that make your life easier. Look at anywhere with unions. Ever experienced a sanitation strike? The people that youre hurting with these laws are the ones that you absolutely need for your communities to thrive. Its like they all share a single brain cell. No one can see the big picture." smhorn2010 24."To not even consider that some of the people in those jobs might not be teenagers: The close-mindedness is willful and deliberate." Fotografia Inc. / Getty Images bexobexo "Also, if a teenager is working, it's extremely likely that they also need the money. Maybe more than if they were older and independent! My brother-in-law dropped out of high school to wash dishes so he could support his mom. Should he have had to? Absolutely not. But did he deserve a wage that you can support a family on just as much as any other working person? Absolutely. His family stayed housed, but he worked his ass off, and then had to go through the shame (to him we didnt feel there was any shame in it) of telling my sister and our family that he needed to get a GED before they could carry out their plans for higher education for him as a mature student. Just to give one example of why teens arent necessarily working just for 'fun money.'" casualpizza23 25."Can we stop with the wealthy people telling the rest of us to live with the scraps we get? Or at least stop telling us to be grateful for it." oatsy 26."Guy who gets paid $106K per year to work in a legislature that meets 50 or 60 days a year says what??? The man is clearly asking for a less-than-livable wage, and so he should have it." nicoleovermoyer 27.And finally, "USA is a straight-up dystopia." Wirestock / Getty Images cutealligator6018 What do you think? Let me know in the comments. Note: Submissions have been edited for length and/or clarity. Israel has announced it will build an enormous settlement in the West Bank to effectively bury the idea of a Palestinian state. About 3,300 homes would be built between Jerusalem and the Jordan border under the plans announced on Thursday, in direct response to British and French plans to recognise an independent Palestine. Critics fear the E1 project will effectively cut the West Bank in two, preventing a contiguous body of land that could form the basis of a viable Palestinian state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, Hamas has declared tomorrow a day of rage to show opposition to the settlement plans. In a statement, the terror group called for all forms of resistance in cities, villages and refugee camps across the West Bank. The plan was first envisaged decades ago but has been on ice mainly because of international pressure, including, most recently, from the Biden administration. However, key Israeli cabinet posts are now filled by religious ultra-nationalists from West Bank communities who have long called for accelerated Jewish settlement of the areas, plus legal annexation by the state of Israel. Bezalel Smotrich presented the plans in Maale Adumim, a space of land in the corridor known as E1 - MENAHEM KAHANA/Getty One of them, Bezalel Smotrich, the finance minister, announced on Thursday that he plans to approve tenders for thousands of homes around the town of Maale Adumim. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Approval of construction plans in E1 buries the idea of a Palestinian state and continues the many steps we are taking on the ground as part of the de facto sovereignty plan that we began implementing with the establishment of the government, he said. This follows a decision by the security cabinet in March to build a separate road system in the area, which is feared will effectively cut off the central West Bank to Palestinians. Mr Smotrich, who also holds a ministerial position in the defence ministry relating to West Bank matters, said Benjamin Netanyahu supported the plans. He added: We will make sure that by September, the hypocritical leaders in Europe will have nothing to recognise. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Israeli ministers had warned it could unilaterally annex the West Bank in retaliation for Western recognition of Palestine outside a broader peace agreement. Both Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron have promised to recognise an independent Palestinian state at the September General Assembly meeting of the UN. Mr Macrons declaration was unconditional, whereas Sir Keirs promise of recognition was conditional on Israel failing to de-escalate the situation in both Gaza and the West Bank, which is very unlikely to happen. Israel branded recognition for Palestine as a reward for terrorism. The Telegraph understands that British and other European diplomats in Jerusalem had advised their governments that, because of the pace of new settlement activity and escalating violence against Palestinians, effective annexation of the West Bank was already taking place. Violence has been widespread in the area particularly since Oct 7 - JAAFAR ASHTIYEH/AFP The US has also condemned the moves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The E1 plan has been described as the doomsday settlement, because it threatens to radically reduce the chance of ever finding a two-state solution, even in a future without Mr Netanyahu, who has always opposed a Palestinian state. The project would divide the West Bank into northern and southern regions, preventing the development of a wider Palestinian metropolis connecting East Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Ramallah. Activists said the proposal announced on Thursday was not for the original E1 project, but rather for 3,300 housing units in Maale Adumim. Peace Now said the project represented an increase of about 33 per cent in the settlements housing stock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are standing at the edge of an abyss, and the government is driving us forward at full speed, the group said. Israel Gantz, the chairman of the Yesha settler group, an umbrella organisation for Jewish settlements in the West Bank, applauded another great and historical achievement for the settlement on the eve of the application of sovereignty. Most of the international community views Israeli settlements in the West Bank and its military occupation of the areas since the 1967 Six-Day War as illegal. About 700,000 Israeli settlers live among 2.7 million Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Israel annexed East Jerusalem in a move not recognised by most countries but has not formally extended sovereignty over the West Bank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The UN and most world powers say settlement expansion has eroded the viability of a two-state solution by fragmenting Palestinian territory. Israel disputes this, citing historical and biblical ties to the area, which it calls Judea and Samaria, and says the settlements provide strategic depth and security. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. The Brief Police say two people shot and killed a man on Tuesday afternoon, and a third person drove the getaway vehicle. All three were taken into custody following a chase with police. Colby Tyler is facing three charges, and police are looking for more information on the other two suspects. HOUSTON - One out of three suspects has been charged with a deadly robbery in Houston's Alief area, and police are looking for more information in this case. Houston crime: Boone Road shooting update What we know Police announced the arrest of 25-year-old Colby Tyler on Wednesday. He's been charged with capital murder, evading arrest, and tampering with evidence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The charges are tied to a deadly shooting that happened Tuesday afternoon on Boone Road. Police say two suspects robbed and shot a man, then fled in a vehicle that was driven by a third suspect. The victim was taken to a hospital with multiple gunshot wounds, but he was later pronounced deceased. Officers found the suspect vehicle shortly after it fled the scene. They tried to stop the vehicle, but the driver refused. The suspects led a police chase until they crashed near the 610 South Loop and Scott Street. Police say Colby Tyler tried to flee on foot, but he was quickly detained. He was charged after Houston PD spoke to the Harris County District Attorney's Office. What we don't know The other two suspects have not been identified at this time, and it's not clear if they have also been charged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The victim will not be named until his loved ones have been notified. Police say he was 65 years old. What you can do Anyone with more information about the other suspects or this case as a whole can call one of the following agencies: HPD Homicide Division: 713-308-3600 Crime Stoppers: 713-222-TIPS (8477) The Source Houston Police Department Ngong police have arrested a man accused of raping multiple women in the Vet Farm area over the past two years. According to police, the suspect identified as a former Nairobi County inspectorate officer and resident of Embulbul was arrested on Wednesday. Officers say they recovered a facemask, handcuffs, and other items believed to have been used in the attacks. Investigators allege the man targeted picnicking couples and religious pilgrims. In several cases, he is accused of handcuffing the male companion before dragging the woman into a nearby thicket and assaulting her. Ngong Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Jacob Ndunda has appealed to potential victims to report to Ngong Police Station for identification and further investigations. We believe there may be more survivors. Your cooperation is crucial for justice, he said, urging the public to help bring the suspect to account. Police announced that the suspect remains under arrest as investigations continue. MEMPHIS, Tenn. Four of five West Memphis Police officers being investigated for sexual misconduct have been fired. Major Stacy Allen, Captain Mose Walker, Ivora Hall, Officer Treasure Gaither, and Officer Blake Forthman were placed on paid administrative leave. WREG can confirm that Allen, Walker, Gaither, and Forthman have been terminated from their jobs. Major Stacy Allen, Captain Mose Walker, Officer Treasure Gaither and Blake Forthman 4 West Memphis law enforcement officers placed on leave Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement released today by the West Memphis Police Department, Police Chief Robbin Campbell Jr. said that, after internal and independent third-party investigations, it was determined that, effective August 12, 2025, the City of West Memphis has released four of the five officers previously placed on administrative leave during the ongoing misconduct investigation. This action reflects the Citys commitment to public trust and fairness for all involved, said Police Chief Campbell. A former officer says she sounded the alarm years ago on four West Memphis Police officers put on leave after allegations of sexual misconduct. Jennifer Jordan spent 13 years on the West Memphis Police Force, leaving in 2021. She said that as the top female officer, 12 to 13 other women came to her with complaints about not feeling safe in their work environment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former officer speaks on allegations in West Memphis force Jordan said the firing of the officers is a step in the right direction for the department. Im just happy to see movement, and Im happy to see that potentially the city will have a safer police department, said Jordan. I think that the leadership needs to listen to their people. I think that the police department runs better when the patrolmen are listened to and feel heard. Back in 2021, three women came forward and said they experienced harassment and discrimination by Allen, with complaints against him dating back to at least 2017. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Women detail allegations against West Memphis Police major In March, West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon said the allegations put a strain on the department and the city. When you have, especially, three of these officers, they got many, many years of experience being a police officer, definitely would be a loss for the West Memphis, McClendon said. But like I say, is not one man or woman is bigger than the law and what they are. And I try to hold my officers up to our standard. A former dispatcher who wanted to remain anonymous told WREG retaliation was a reality for some on the force. She said when no one listened, officers lost faith in the department and its leadership. Police Chief Campbell said due to ongoing litigation, they are unable to comment further at this time, and updates will be provided when appropriate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. The West must not be cowed by Vladimir Putin, the head of Britains Armed Forces has warned ahead of Donald Trumps high-stakes meeting with the Russian president. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said Nato allies must be assertive in every domain nuclear, land, sea, air, cyber and space as well as in the diplomatic and economic arenas as he cautioned against submitting to Moscows demands for peace. The rare intervention by Britains most senior military officer comes ahead of Mr Trumps one-to-one meeting with Putin in Alaska on Friday, which is expected to forge the conditions for peace in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday night, Mr Trump said that Putin would not mess around with me and threatened to impose further sanctions if he failed to offer a meaningful resolution to the war. He said he would know in the first two minutes... exactly whether or not a deal can be made. Speaking in the Oval Office on Thursday, he said: I want to set the table for the next meeting. Id like to see it happen very quickly. Were going to find out where everyone stands. If its a bad meeting, it will end very quickly, and if its a good meeting, we will end up having peace in the very near future. European leaders have become increasingly concerned that the pair could negotiate an end to the three-year conflict over Volodymyr Zelenskys head, but Mr Trump appeared to allay some of those fears on Thursday night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The more important meeting will be the second meeting that were having, were going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself and maybe well bring some of the European leaders, maybe not, he said. The second meeting is going to be very, very important, because thats going to be a meeting where they make a deal. And I dont want to use the word divvy things up. But you know, to a certain extent, its not a bad term. Writing for The Telegraph to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Sir Tony emphasised the ongoing importance of the Nato alliance born out of the end of the Second World War. He said: Putin doesnt want a war with Nato because he would lose. So we should not be cowed by his rhetoric or his campaign of sabotage, outrageous as it may be. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The one weapon that is most needed in our arsenal is confidence. Despite the global instability, Britain is secure at home. Nato is strong. Russia is weak. It is not complacent to point this out. Mr Trump has insisted he would not make a deal to end the Ukraine war without Mr Zelensky, who has demanded a security guarantee some kind of commitment that America would be willing to enforce the terms of any peace deal from the US. We should draw reassurance from our place in Nato, recognising we are the very beneficiaries of the same security guarantees President Zelensky so desperately seeks, and then use that assuredness to back Ukraine to the hilt, said Sir Tony. But Mr Trump could give ground to Putin and is expected to arrive at the meeting armed with a series of financial incentives hoped at smoothing the path to a peace deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sir Tony cautioned that Russias territorial gains should not be overstated, saying Russia seized less than 0.4 per cent of Ukraines territory in the first six months of this year even as the toll of Russian dead and wounded passed one million. The first Russian delegates, including Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister, and Andrei Belousov, the defence minister, arrived on US soil on Friday. Appearing to flatter the president, Putin said: The US administration in my view is making quite energetic and sincere efforts to end the fighting, he stated. Dampening claims that Putin was bluffing about peace, Mr Trump said: I am president, and hes not going to mess around with me. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He estimated that there was a one in four chance that his summit would end in failure, and said he was open to imposing further sanctions on Russia if the talks did not lead to peace. Credit: Reuters Meanwhile, sidelined from Fridays talks, Mr Zelensky visited Sir Keir Starmer in Downing Street. He wrote on X: We 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. On Wednesday, Sir Keir said that real progress had been made over security guarantees for Kyiv following a call with Mr Trump. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. The Telegraph revealed on Thursday that Mr Trump is preparing to offer Putin access to rare earth minerals in occupied Ukraine and lift hard-hitting sanctions on Russian aircraft. Other incentives also include opening up Alaskas natural resources to Moscow Scott Bessent, the US treasury secretary, is understood to be among administration figures briefing Mr Trump. Mr Bessent is exploring the economic trade-offs the US can make with Russia in order to expedite a ceasefire agreement. Putin doesnt want a war with Nato he knows hed lose On Friday, I will be at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and reflect on the war in the Far East: from the loss of HMS Prince of Wales and Repulse and the fall of Singapore, to the terrible hardships experienced by Allied prisoners of war, through to the arrival of the British Pacific Fleet and the surrender of Japan, writes Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we commemorate the sacrifice of British, Commonwealth and Allied Forces throughout South-East Asia, I will also be reflecting on the idealism and resolve with which the same generation strove for a lasting peace. Britain was at the heart of that internationalist endeavour. The General Assembly of the United Nations met for the first time in Methodist Central Hall in Westminster. The first Nato headquarters was nearby in Belgrave Square, with General Montgomery serving as Eisenhowers deputy. Here were the foundations for a future peace, built around the principles of collective security and a commitment by responsible nuclear powers, led by America, to help temper the risk of nuclear proliferation. This construct nuclear, Nato and America has kept Britain and Europe safe for the past 80 years. It continues to do so, even in these turbulent times today. Not that its future was always certain. Twenty years ago, when there was little in the way of a pressing state-based threat, some argued to dispense with Britains nuclear deterrent. Parliament nevertheless voted in 2007 to proceed with its renewal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Given everything that has happened since especially Putins bellicose nuclear threats that choice was prescient, and proof that we do get the big decisions right in this country. Credit: Telegram/Pavel Zarubin Similarly, Nato has newfound relevance and an insurmountable position as the worlds largest and most powerful alliance. It easily outmatches Russia across every conventional measure troops, tanks, ships and aircraft and is growing even stronger. Crucially, the transatlantic dimension to European security remains. America may be stepping up its focus on the Pacific, but she is not stepping away. The Trump administration has been clear that the US will continue to provide the vital nuclear guarantee for the continent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But America has challenged their European allies to step up in return. The decision of Nato nations to commit 5 per cent of GDP to defence and security with 3.5 per cent for core military purposes is evidence of their willingness to do just that. For Britain, this is a historic turning point the end of the peace dividend. The Armed Forces will become stronger and more lethal and, in time, larger too. The Army will be recapitalised, with new equipment to double its lethality by 2027 and triple it by 2030, while an HQ and two divisions supplied by Britain will form the basis of one Nato Strategic Reserve Corps. The Royal Air Force will join the Alliances nuclear sharing mission, and the Royal Navy will dominate the North Atlantic through a network of drones and sensors. We will also continue nurturing the Atlantic-Pacific partnerships that reflect our global connectivity, underpin economic security, and deliver what the PM describes as the defence dividend for the British people. This includes building nuclear-powered submarines with Australia and a sixth-generation fighter with Japan and Italy two projects that account for thousands of British jobs. But the one weapon that is most needed in our arsenal is confidence. Despite the global instability, Britain is secure at home. Nato is strong. Russia is weak. It is not complacent to point this out. Admiral Sir Tony Radakin: Britain is secure at home. Nato is strong. Russia is weak - Anupam Nath/AP Photo We should draw reassurance from our place in Nato, recognising that we are the very beneficiaries of the same security guarantees President Zelensky so desperately seeks, and then use that assuredness to back Ukraine to the hilt. Russia seized less than 0.4 per cent of Ukraines territory in the first six months of this year, even as the toll of Russian dead and wounded passed one million. Putin doesnt want a war with Nato because he would lose. So we should not be cowed by his rhetoric or his campaign of sabotage, outrageous as it may be. The strategy of Nato is deterrence, and we deter by demonstrating to Russia that we are stronger. That requires us to be assertive in every domain nuclear, land, sea, air, cyber and space as well as in the diplomatic and economic arenas. These last two, economics and diplomacy, matter most. We forget how strong the West remains. Europe and North America account for half the worlds wealth. Nato spends more on defence than Russia and China combined. The worlds intellectual capital flows to the tech hubs and universities of America and Europe. We dont have to watch helplessly as the post-1945 settlement deteriorates. We have the financial, military and intellectual might to buttress and defend the world order and confront those who undermine it. All we need is confidence, cohesion and resolve. The men and women of todays Armed Forces are committed to their part in the task and, in doing so, honouring the generation who sought to forge a new world from the ashes of the old. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Washington Just before the class of 2025 graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and accepted their commissions as officers in the U.S. Army, a group of cadets this past May decided to honor one of their own a boy who dreamed of attending West Point but before he could, laid down his life as a hero. File: A memorial for Peter Wang, one of the victims of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting, sits on a bandshell stage in a park in Parkland, Florida on February 16, 2018. / Credit: RHONA WISE/AFP via Getty Images Peter Wang, an Army Junior ROTC cadet, was just 15 years old and among the 17 killed during the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. During the shooting, he held a door open to allow students to escape the merciless gunfire on that day. In a follow-up story published seven years after the shooting, CBS News reported in May that Wang was posthumously accepted to the West Point class of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When CBS News reached out to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in the days before graduation this year to ask whether Wang who was symbolically accepted into the class would be awarded his diploma posthumously, the inquiry appeared to catch both the academy's media relations staff and leadership off guard. Yet among some class members, Wang's story of sacrifice remained vivid, and their determination to see him honored had not faded. "When we put out a form asking for classmates to nominate honorary members of our class, I was not expecting Peter Wang's name to be on the list of nominees," newly minted Army 2nd Lt. Katherine Metz, the president of the class of 2025 at West Point, told CBS News. "Most cadets nominated former classmates who were separated from West Point for reasons outside of their control mostly medical or foreign exchange cadets who made a significant impact on our class or their countries. However, Peter's name appeared countless times within our class's responses." File: Army 2nd Lt. Katherine Metz, the president of the class of 2025 at West Point, announced Peter Wang's name as an honorary member of the class in front of other West Point cadets at a final event prior to graduation week. / Credit: Photo provided by 2nd Lt. Katherine Metz Metz had read the article by CBS News and other news stories from the time of the shooting. She said a number of cadets from the class nominated Wang for the Honorary Graduate Award and would soon be mailing his certificate to his parents. The award is an honor conferred on those who did not physically graduate with the class but who embody West Point's core values of duty, honor and country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When the sounds of gunfire reverberated through the hallways of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Wang was in study hall. As panic spread, he moved toward the exit not to flee, but to hold the door open, easing the way for his classmates to escape. He was shot 13 times. Wang was found dead in a third-floor hallway, wearing his Army JROTC uniform. The Florida National Guard honored Wang with a military funeral, and hundreds assembled to pay their respects. Metz said one of her classmates wrote about how Wang "valiantly sacrificed himself to hold the door for his fellow classmates to escape," and said it was only fitting "that we recognize him as an honorary graduate, as he would have been with us." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some members of the class of 2025 were already familiar with Wang's story and the tragic path that led to his posthumous admission. But for many, the details emerged only when his name was announced as an honorary member of the graduating class. From that moment, classmates say, his story became part of the class's shared identity an enduring example of selflessness and sacrifice. "Now, our whole class knows his story and will take his selfless example of sacrifice with us into our service as commissioned officers in the United States Army," said Metz. Honorary Graduate Award for 15-year-old Peter Wang, who was among the 17 killed in the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. / Credit: Photo provided by 2nd Lt. Katherine Metz For his actions in 2018, Wang was posthumously awarded the Medal of Heroism by the U.S. Army, the highest award given to Army JROTC and ROTC cadets whose performance "involved the acceptance of danger and extraordinary responsibilities." Junior ROTC cadets Alaina Petty and Martin Duque, who were also killed during the shooting, also received the medal. "Peter demonstrated the characteristics and attributes we seek out of graduates of the Naval Academy or West Point," retired Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen told CBS News in May. Caslen, who was the superintendent of West Point in 2018, authorized Wang's entry into the class of 2025. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added, "Individuals like Peter are exactly the men and women you want leading America's youth in combat situations, the fact that he demonstrated that at his age says a lot about him which is why we made him an honorary member of the class." Passenger arrested after allegedly causing disturbance midair and forcing flight to divert Tropical Storm Erin expected to become a major hurricane When could Tropical Storm Erin become a hurricane? HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) A West Springfield man was arrested in connection with a shooting in Holyoke last month and faces several firearm charges. In a news release by the Holyoke Police Department, officers were called to 27 Sargeant Street at around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 24th, for a ShotSpotter activation. A shooting victim was located and taken to the hospital with serious injuries, who is expected to recover. Suspect arrested in multi-agency drug dealing investigation in Holyoke Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the investigation, the suspect was identified as 21-year-old Jeyver Pabon-Flores of West Springfield. A warrant for his arrest was issued, and he was taken into custody at around 9 a.m. on Wedensday at an apartment on the 0-100 block of Wilcox Street in Springfield. Jeyver Pabon-Flores is charged with the following: Arrest Warrant Carrying a Firearm without a License Carrying a Loaded Firearm without a License Assault & Battery with a Firearm Assault & Battery causing Serious Bodily Injury Firearm-Armed Assault to Murder Mayhem Discharging a Firearm within 500 Feet of a Building Local News Headlines WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. FAIRMONT, W.Va. (WBOY) Did you know that some of the nations top cyber security protection is based right here in north central West Virginia? Agile5 Technologies is a Fairmont-grown IT services company that has developed software taking the world of cybersecurity by storm. The Automated Compliance Engine (ACE) ensures that cloud services are in continuous compliance by automating the required system checks in just 10 minutes. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12 News spoke with Chief Information Security Officer of Agile5 Technologies, Jacob Brozenick, about having these services in an area like Fairmont. Some of the systems are so integral to some of the countrys defense and operations day and day work actually exists here in your state, and theyre managed, maintained, and operated by the citizens that live here, and I think thats something to be prideful of, Brozenick said. Fairmont officer has hilarious statement after snapping turtle moved from parking lot 12 News also spoke with Agile5 Co-Founder and Chief Tech Officer Chet Tobre on utilizing locals within the company. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The talent is here, you know, and its really rewarding to help grow and nurture and benefit from the high-quality staff we have locally, Tobrey said. Since its creation, ACE has been adopted by Department of Defense and Department of Justice entities, including the FBI CJIS Division in Clarksburg. Agile5 was also awarded the SBAs 2024 West Virginia Small Business of the Year honor for its efforts in helping the community and beyond. As for the future, through its own success, Agile5 is ensuring that young minds in Appalachia receive the guidance and opportunity available through internships. Ive lived in this state for over 25 years now, and Ive really grown to love it here and the opportunities that we have here. I think that weve been able to really grasp on those because were pretty close to universities like WVU, and Fairmont and Glenville, and weve really tapped into these resources to try to find local people who want to get into this field, who want to get into technology, and we nurture that. So we have an innovation lab, we have an internship program every summer, and it becomes more successful every year, said Brozenick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You can learn more about Agile5 Technologies and the IT services it provides through its website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. Ukraine is getting Western help to train its soldiers for the brutal fight against Russia. Many of the trainers have not been in a fight like that, the operation head acknowledged to BI. He said the training combines Ukraine's experience with NATO doctrine to make the best preparation. Western instructors are teaching Ukrainian troops how to fight a war they've never fought themselves, but it works, officials say. More than 56,000 Ukrainian troops have been trained by Western allies under the UK-led Operation Interflex since June 2022, giving Ukraine's soldiers the skills they need to survive and fight in Europe's biggest land war since World War II. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Strangely, many of the Ukrainian troops who come to training arrive straight from the front lines fresh from trench assaults, drone strikes, and days under artillery fire while some of the instructors have never fought in a war like the one they came from. A Ukrainian serviceman takes cover in a trench during shelling next to a 105mm howitzer near the city of Bakhmut, on March 8, 2023, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images Col. Boardman, commanding officer for Operation Interflex, told Business Insider that the UK's Ministry of Defence is well aware of this unusual dynamic. Love Business Insider? Add Business Insider as a preferred source on Google to see more of us. Far from being a disadvantage, he said, the mix of Western warfighting doctrine and Ukrainian battlefield experience produces tactics that are better than either side's knowledge alone. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm conscious of our need to have credibility even though we may not have up-to-date combat experience of this type," he said. "But I don't see that as a disqualifying factor, if you like, because I think we do have the institutional credibility and expertise that what we're teaching is genuinely valued, not only at the top end of the Ukrainian military, but right all the way down through to those who actually go through the training." A different type of war The West hasn't fought a major war against a powerful, industrialized military in decades. Most NATO combat experience in recent memory comes from the counterinsurgency and counterterrorism campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan, where Western forces enjoyed air superiority and faced smaller, less-equipped adversaries. Some Interflex trainers weren't even in Iraq or Afghanistan, having joined after those conflicts ended. Ukraine is battling one of the world's largest militaries in a grinding, high-casualty war with no control of the skies. Russia's relentless artillery fire, missile strikes, and widespread use of drones have reshaped the battlefield in ways NATO has not faced for generations, or in some cases at all. Ukrainian soldiers fire toward Russian position on the frontline in Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, on June 24, 2023. AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky For years, Western militaries were heavily focused on counterinsurgency skills while maintaining a theoretical capability for large-scale war. Boardman acknowledged this, while saying the UK did not lose the capability for major operations: "I think naturally you do shape yourself for the moment." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, Boardman said, there's a renewed focus on combating a well-armed foe. That has meant dusting off tactics such as trench warfare and learning as much as possible from Ukraine's front-line soldiers about emerging threats like exploding drones. A win-win scenario Boardman said Ukrainian soldiers bring a lot of valuable military experience to the training. That experience often challenges NATOs best practices and leads to adjustments. The Western officials and instructors behind Interflex are "approaching it with a humility of approach that allows us to provide our opinions and our ideas and our teaching, but also learn from some of the feedback that we get," he said. For example, when learning casualty evacuation, Ukrainians sometimes reject NATO's extraction techniques, explaining that in their war, it may be safer to wait until nightfall to move the wounded. In trench warfare lessons, Ukrainians sometimes correct their instructors based on tactics they used in combat just weeks earlier. Those insights are then incorporated into the training. A Ukrainian medic runs through a partially dug trench on the frontline outside Bakhmut on March 5, 2023. John Moore/Getty Images Both sides are learning from the training exercise. Key lessons from Ukraine are feeding directly into Western planning as militaries across Europe prepare for the possibility of a future conflict with Russia. And NATO allies are sharing their skills with Ukraine. Finland, for example, brings forest-warfare expertise to Interflex that Ukraine lacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "There's no question that's a benefit to the Ukrainians," Boardman said. He explained that there is a "really rich mutual understanding going on" and that the training program "ends up with the sum being much greater than the parts, which is really valuable for us." Ukraines expertise with drones, particularly the first-person-view attack drones, has been especially valuable, especially considering the changes to the operating environment since Iraq and Afghanistan. Boardman said that while the UK has drone operators and instructors, we are not currently at war, so we are not developing them at the same pace that the Ukrainians are. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Ukraine is "very good at sharing the understanding with us," which also helps the UK and other Western militaries. Bracing for more war Boardman said he recognizes that it can be a bit "uncomfortable" for trainers to teach trench assaults without having actually done it personally, but the West has a lot of institutional credibility from past military operations and combat successes that give "us license, effectively, to do this training." Ukraine, he said, is asking for the training. "We're not just asking them to come and be trained here; it's Ukrainians who are asking us to do it." The UK hosts trainings for Ukrainian troops under its Operation Interflex program. HENRY NICHOLLS/AFP via Getty Images Exit interviews show how much Ukraine values the training, Boardman said: "The overriding theme is one of gratitude for the training that they've been a part of." Highlighting the value of the training, Ukraine has requested that it be extended. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He said Ukraine places a lot of value on NATO and Western military doctrine because while "they may have the current battle experience," the Ukrainians "know that we have some of the history, some of the hard-won experience of this in the past." But again, the West also sees tremendous value in learning from this war and the Ukrainian experiences. "This isn't a completely charitable activity," Boardman explained. "There is a big benefit to us in doing this that we are learning an awful lot from our engagement with this war." Boardman said that information and tactics from Ukraine are fed to the UK and allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The West wants insights from this war, with many European allies fearing Russia may attack elsewhere on the continent. They are closely watching Ukraine to see what kinds of tactics and weaponry they need to adopt for such a conflict. "We want to teach them as much as we can," Boardman said of the Ukrainians and the war against Russia. "We also want to learn from it so we can benefit ourselves." Read the original article on Business Insider WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) The top administrator with the Wichita Falls Independent School District addressed poor academic accountability ratings for the districts two new high schools. On Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the Texas Education Agency released the 2025 Academic Accountability ratings to Texas school district administrators. The ratings will be released to the public on Friday, August 15, 2025. According to Dr. Donny Lee, Superintendent with the WFISD, both of the districts two new high schools received poor ratings for 2025, with Memorial High School receiving a D rating and Legacy High School receiving an F. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement REPLAY: WFISD Superintendent holds news conference after TEA scores released Dr. Lee said that those ratings dont quite paint a full picture of the new schools. It only tells half of the story because we only received about 40 percent of the data, Dr. Lee said. So Memorial and Legacy, since they were brand new high schools, had nothing to compare themselves to. According to Dr. Lee, neither schools graduation rate was factored into its rating. He said historically, WFISD high schools average a graduation rate of better than 98 percent. Dr. Lee said the metric of college, career, and military readiness was also not included in the final scores for the two new high schools. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Lee explained that both of those data points, as well as growth from year-to-year, are one-year lagging data points, and since the districts two high schools opened to begin the 2024-25 school year, they have nothing to be compared to. According to Dr. Lee, this is an unintended consequence of the district opening up two new high schools, and when next years ratings are released by the TEA, community members wont see the same results. Youre going to see a drastic change in that next year, because all of a sudden, were going to have a years worth of data to compare ourselves to, Dr. Lee said. To that end, Dr. Lee suggested that, had those metrics been in play for Legacy and Memorial High Schools, he expected that theyd be two full letter grades higher on TEAs ratings for academic accountability. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We compared Legacy High School to Wichita Falls High School, which took the STAAR test last year, Dr. Lee said. Legacy performed better than Wichita Falls High School by three points and had the same STAAR performance, and Wichita Falls High School received a C rating. According to Dr. Lee, the overall district rating is expected to be a 68, or a D rating, but he said that has a lot to do with the ratings of Legacy and Memorial High Schools, which account for more than 3,500 of the districts total students. Dr. Lee then pointed out district-wide improvements regarding academic accountability scores. Weve made significant progress over the course of three years, including the high schools, Dr. Lee said. In 2023, we had 11 D or F campuses. In 2024, we had 7 D or F campuses. And this year, factoring in Memorial and Legacy, well have 5 D or F campuses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dr. Lee said, other than Memorial and Legacy High Schools, the other campuses rated at a D or lower include: Hirschi Middle School Booker T. Washington Elementary Southern Hills Elementary. Dr. Lee said he expects that the WFISD will have no D or F campuses after the 2025-26 school year, and hes confident that the ratings for next year will improve dramatically. Our message is theres more than the ratings, and that theres going to be some dramatic shift in those ratings and academic performance after this year, Dr. Lee said. We fully anticipate Hirschi, Legacy, and Memorial to be far different than what they are right now. This is a developing story. Stick with Texomas Homepage for updates as more information becomes available. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Texomashomepage.com. EWA BEACH, Hawaii (KHON2) The Hawaii-based giveaway is first-come, first-served and will continue until supplies run out. Hundreds of free beds will be given away Saturday, Aug. 16, at Ilima Intermediate School in Ewa Beach. The free bed event starts at 9 a.m. Hawaii bumped out of #1 most expensive state ranking We just want to bless the community, said Hawaii State Senator Kurt Fevella (R-20). Its a big impact on, you know, having a good nights sleep. You know, its a good quality of life. Little things like that, people dont realize, goes a long way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Fevella said he hopes to distribute up to 1,000 beds: 500 king and 500 full-size mattresses. The event is part of a long-running community effort supported by Walker-Moody Construction. John, through the Walker-Moody, and his beautiful wife Debbie, when they get blessed with jobs and inventory, he just want to bless the community, said Sen. Fevella. Beds are not cheap; and sometimes, your bed is very old and you still just stay on them because you cannot afford to buy another one. The beds, previously used in hotels, are high quality and lightly worn, he said. Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You Most hotels that renovate and give away their beds; the beds are hardly used. Only used for sleep because [guests are] always out about in the community, Sen. Fevella explained. I have a few of them at my house. I was really blessed to have it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The giveaway will take place in the parking lot of Ilima Intermediate School on Fort Weaver Road. Families are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot in line, and trucks or large vehicles are recommended for transporting mattresses. Free bed flyer set to take place in Honolulu, Hawaii on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025. (Photo/Sen. Kurt Fevella) I just really appreciative of principals being really letting us use this school in front of Ilima Intermediate for people, said Sen. Fevella. Sen. Fevella warned that past giveaways have drawn big crowds; so, its important to get there early. We dont want to run out, said Sen. Fevella. When we did this a few years back, on the west sidewe ran out of beds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8 For more information, contact Sen. Fevellas office at (808) 586-6360. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2. HUXLEY, Iowa One of the Iowa State Fairs biggest draws is the unique food available there, but not everyone can handle the crowds and the heat. So if some of the fair food appeals to you but the crowds do not, you may need to make the drive to Huxley, Iowa. Iowa State Fairgoers react to number 2 national ranking For the third year, Flight Bar + Grill has a special menu highlighting foods you might find at the Iowa State Fair. This years menu includes the jalapeno popper egg roll, pickle ranch flat bread, fried Oreos, and a fancy funnel cake. Flight is also offering a pickle margarita and dirty sodas as part of their fair menu. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Flight may be best known for winning Iowas Best Burger award in 2023. Owner Matt Pacha says theyre still seeing business from that award, in addition to being on the Pub Pass. Flight Bar + Grill, along with other businesses in Huxley, has had to battle construction projects, such as the closure of the Huxley I-35 exit. But Pacha hopes people will still make the trip there and emphasizes that there are still easy ways to get there. More: Gabe on the Go Flights fair food menu will last until the end of the Iowa State Fair, August 17th. Pacha says theres a chance some of the menu items will stick around if they continue to be popular. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If youd like to visit Flight Bar + Grills website, you can do so here. Iowa news Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to who13.com. White House officials are reportedly skeptical that Corey Lewandowski, a political advisor who is currently a temporary special government employee, has been trying to avoid hitting the maximum number of days he may work so he can remain part of the Department of Homeland Security. Since February, Lewandowski has been working with Secretary Kristi Noem, often joining her on international trips, helping arrange meetings and making decisions about DHS staff. The twos working relationship is close enough that some DHS staff reportedly refer to Lewandowski as Noems de facto chief of staff or shadow secretary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officially, Lewandowski is considered a senior adviser who may work in the administration for a maximum of 130 days per year, a rule imposed under his special government employee status the same status that was held by Elon Musk. But unnamed administration officials told Axios they believe Lewandowski is trying to evade his expiration date by sneaking into buildings with other staffers to avoid swiping his badge, and using a non-government email to conduct business. Unnamed White House officials claim Corey Lewandowski, a political operative working as a special government employee, may be trying to avoid meeting his maximum work days (Getty Images) We're hearing that Corey's doing everything failing to swipe in, working from home, whatever to undercount his days, a White House official told Axios. It's fair to say his work is being watched now. DHS told Axios Thursday that Lewandowski has only worked 69 days, a number that several administration officials cast doubt on. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In July, the White House released a government-wide memorandum, reminding those with special employee status about the 130-day limit and included guidance on how those days should be computed. An official familiar with the memorandum said it was not directed at any specific employee. A DHS employee keeps track of Lewandowskis time and submits paperwork on a biweekly basis. The Independent has asked the Department of Homeland Security and the White House for comment. Lewandowski has amassed considerable power serving as Noems apparent right-hand man, according to reports. He was spotted with Noem while traveling across South America to participate in bilateral meetings as well as trips to Europe, Florida, and Phoenix. He has also secured enough authority to request that employees be fired or placed on administrative leave, according to CNN. Lewandowski pictured to the right of Noem at a meeting in Guatemala about the administration's immigration policies (Getty Images) Lewandowski and Noem, both of whom are married, have also been subject to extramarital affair rumors. They have repeatedly staunchly denied the allegations. Noem specifically called them a disgusting lie. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A DHS spokesperson previously told the Wall Street Journal that the department doesnt waste time with salacious, baseless gossip. Lewandowski, a longtime Republican operative, is a well-known and polarizing figure in Trumpworld. He managed Trumps first presidential campaign between 2015 and 2016, but parted ways with the team months before the election. He remains an ally to the president and briefly returned to serve as a senior adviser during Trumps third election campaign in 2024. However, his role was changed due to an internal power struggle with other senior Trump campaign officials, according to reports. A spokesperson for the department told the Journal that Lewandowski chose to work for DHS because his wifes first husband died in 9/11. President William Ruto signed into law the County Allocation of Revenue Bill, 2025, and the County Public Finance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023, raising counties equitable share of national revenue to Ksh415 billion from Ksh387.4 billion for the financial year 2025/2026. The County Allocation of Revenue Bill, sponsored by Senate Finance and Budget Committee chair Ali Roba, details how the Ksh415 billion will be distributed among Kenyas 47 counties using the revenue-sharing formula approved by Parliament. Nairobi County will receive the highest share at Ksh21.4 billion, then Nakuru at Ksh14.4 billion, Turkana at Ksh13.8 billion, and Kakamega at Ksh13.6 billion. Taita Taveta, Isiolo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Tharaka Nithi, and Lamu will receive the least allocation at Ksh5.7 billion, Ksh5.6 billion, Ksh5.5 billion, Ksh5.05 billion, and Ksh3.8 billion respectively. Kiambu will receive Ksh13.07 billion, Kilifi Ksh12.8 billion, Mandera Ksh12.2 billion, Bungoma Ksh11.8 billion, and Kitui Ksh11.5 billion. The law also mandates the National Treasury to publish quarterly reports on actual transfers to the counties. The county treasuries will then have to account for such receipts and include them in their quarterly and annual financial statements in an effort to enhance disbursement transparency. The funds will be the first to utilize the fourth revenue-sharing formula under Article 217 of the Constitution, which had been approved by Parliament earlier this year. It also sets budget ceilings for county executives and assemblies and establishes clear rules for funding functions transferred from counties to the national government, including mandatory quarterly performance reports to the Senate and respective assemblies. County Assemblies Gain More Control Over Funds On the other hand, the County Public Finance Laws (Amendment) Bill, sponsored by Senator Kathuri Murungi, introduces sweeping reforms to the Public Finance Management Act, giving county assemblies greater autonomy over their finances. Central to this reform is the creation of a County Assembly Fund in each county to cover administrative costs and finance asset acquisition, including land and buildings. The new law expands on existing provisions by detailing the funds management, revenue sources, and requisition processes. Under the framework, the Clerk of each county assembly will act as the funds administrator, ensuring resources are retained for their intended purposes, kept at the Central Bank of Kenya, and disbursed promptly for approved public spending. Unspent funds at year-end will be carried forward. Funds will mainly come from monies appropriated by the county assembly from the County Revenue Fund, with county treasuries required to release allocations by the 15th of each month for the following months use. President Ruto signed the two bills into law at the Homa Bay State Lodge. WASHINGTON (Reuters) -White House trade adviser Peter Navarro said on Thursday that the Trump administration is likely to levy tariffs on pharmaceutical imports under a "Section 232" trade investigation because it's "very clear that we have a national security crisis" due to U.S. reliance on foreign producers in the sector. In an televised interview with CNBC, Navarro did not provide any details on the timing of the Section 232 probe. He said that President Donald Trump's executive order to shore up supply chains will provide price floors for domestic producers of drug ingredients through long-term strategic contracts that will ensure sufficient demand. At the same time, tariffs will deter dumping of pharma precursors from India and China, he added. (Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Mark Porter) MEMPHIS, Tenn. A Memphis man is warning others to research rental properties thoroughly after he says his family endured months of dangerous living conditions at Highland Meadows Apartments in Whitehaven. Desmond King told WREG he signed a one-year lease at the complex in February after moving to Memphis for work. Online, the property looked clean and affordable. But once inside, King says he encountered pests, mold, and standing water and more recently, had his car broken into. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The biggest concern, he says, was when his two children became sick. King believes their health issues and even his dogs illness were caused by mold in the apartment. He says he eventually had to give the dog away. King claims the complex sent someone to inspect the mold, but that person wasnt certified and simply patched over problem spots. They came in with a guy that isnt certified to even inspect the mold, King said. All he did was just cut the mold out where the mold was at. and then he got a scraper and scraped it off the wall. While visiting the property, our crew briefly spoke to another resident who said maintenance does address issues. However, King says hes been unable to get in touch with management and feels the conditions are unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement King says he has since relocated his family, but his childrens symptoms have not gone away. We reached out to Highland Meadows Apartments and its management company, South Tri Management LLC, for comment. We are still waiting to hear back. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. When Russian President Vladimir Putin touches down in Alaska on Friday to discuss ending the war in Ukraine with U.S. President Donald Trump, hell be landing in a former Russian colony that still carries deep historic ties to his homeland. The Frontier State is geographically the closest point between the U.S. and Russia, divided by the Bering Strait and resting just 55 miles away from the European country. But beyond making the U.S. and Russia neighbors, Alaska has been the site of both cooperation and conflict between the two nations beginning, in part, with the purchase of the 49th state from the Russian empire. The symbolism of Alaska would be a reminder of how it was possible for the United States and Russia for most of the 19th century to transcend their ideological and political differences and their expansionisms, to have warm, friendly cooperative relations, says David S. Foglesong, a history professor at Rutgers University - New Brunswick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: The Real Danger of the Trump-Putin Summit That is not to say that the summit was chosen solely for symbolic reasons. Putin is barred from entering the 125 countries that are parties to the Rome Statute due to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against him for war crimes. No other country wants them to have this meeting on their territory, says Lee Farrow, professor and chair of Auburn University at Montgomerys history and world culture department. Farrow is also the author of Seward's Folly: A New Look at the Alaska Purchase, and other titles about Russian-U.S. relations. It's going to be easier to manage strategically from a safety standpoint, and Putin doesn't have to be worried about getting arrested by some kind of international court. While experts doubt a resolution on ending the war can come from the in-person meetingespecially since Ukraine is not participatingthe hope is that the U.S. can reestablish a working channel with Russia, recalling a period when dialogue and cautious cooperation were possible. If Donald Trump is trying to be the mediator of this, says Farrow, Alaska is the perfect place to resurrect that friendship for the sake of world peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine has been at war since Russias illegal invasion in 2022. Fridays summit marks the first meeting between the leaders of the U.S. and Russia since the 2021 meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and Putin in Geneva. Vladimir Putin and Joe Biden shake hands at a meeting at the 'Villa la Grange' in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 16, 2021. Alexander ZemlianichenkoAP Alaska as a former Russian colony Political tensions between Russia and the U.S. have worsened in recent decades, but relations were historically much friendlier, even before the purchase of Alaska, which was a Russian colony for more than 65 years. U.S. officials and politicians viewed Russia as one of its closest European powers after Russian fleets traveled to New York and San Francisco in 1863, during the U.S. Civil War. Shared political upheaval also united the two nations. There was this common feeling of sympathy about the loss of leaders or the attempted assassination of a leader, says Farrow, pointing to the 1865 assassination of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and 1866 assassination attempt of Russian Emperor Alexander II. Russia, overstretched by its own expansion, opted to sell Alaska for $7.2 million, favoring the U.S. over Britain, which it still regarded as its primary rival. Russia preferred to have Alaska go to what it considered a friendly power, like the United States, rather than to have it possibly fall into the hands of an unfriendly power like Britain, which Russia continued to regard as really enemy number one, says Foglesong. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Today, remnants of Russian influence remain in the northernmost U.S. state. Russian Orthodox churches can be found in Anchorage and Sitka, the latter of which was once the capital of Russian America. Alaskan Creoles, descendants of Russians and Alaskan natives, are also still present in the state. And some Alaskan towns still have Russian-derived names, such as Ninilchik. Alaska has played a big role in previous conflicts with Russia Alaska also played a significant role during the World Wars, delivering thousands of aircrafts to the then-Soviet Union in World War II on ferries that traveled through the Bering Strait. Symbolically, Alaska later became the first line of defense at the end of the Cold War, according to Brandon Boylan, a professor of political science and director of Arctic and northern studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The thinking was that if the Soviets were going to attack the U.S., they would do so over the North Pole, he says. A defense radar system was set up in Alaska to detect bombs and missiles amid concerns of a nuclear war. Today, Alaska and Russia share overlapping interests in the Arctic Circle. Both nations participate in the Arctic Councilthough some of their work has been temporarily paused due to Russias invasionand maintain a history of scientific collaboration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alaskas proximity to Russia also gives it strategic significance for Arctic energy resources, shipping routes, and climate research, factors that could shape the Trump-Putin talks around access to critical minerals and energy suppliesresources that Ukraines conflict has made increasingly pivotal for global markets. Call for return of Alaska to Russia Some Russian nationalists, including politicians, have called for the U.S. to give Alaska back to Russia. There certainly has long been this kind of story floating around that somehow Russia should never have lost Alaska in the first place, that it wasn't a 100% legitimate deal, says Farrow. The calls from Russian nationalists echo some of Putins efforts to take control of Ukraine. Farrow adds that many of Putins actions are part of an attempt to regain lost glory and to establish some kind of new identity and new legacy for Russia, including trying to reclaim lost territory, such as Crimea and parts of Ukraine. Experts generally view these calls for the return of Alaska as an empty threat, but caution against what the Russian nationalist sentiment signals. It reminds Alaskans, and all Americans, that Alaska is still a part of Russian national consciousness, says Boylan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Either way, some experts note that the summit in and of itself is a win for Russia, who gets to partake in negotiations without the presence of Ukraine. In fact, some may view the upcoming meeting with Trump as a way to recognize Russias power. There's a long history of Russians looking to the United States for affirmation of Russia's status, Foglesong says. Contact us at letters@time.com. Girls outperforming boys at school is something we had almost begun to take for granted. Yet while it still holds true throughout primary and secondary education, 2025 is the year the tables turned when it comes to A-levels. This year, 28.4 per cent of male candidates received an A* or A score, compared to 28.2 per cent for their female counterparts. This is the first time boys have taken the lead since 2018, and only for the third time in modern grading history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What or who could explain this unexpected reversal of academic fortunes? Experts were quick to suggest the success was down to boys subject choices: they tend to favour STEM fields where the right-or-wrong answers allow exam-takers to get closer to full marks than in the humanities or arts. While their soaring popularity is undoubtedly real with male entrants for further maths up 7.6 per cent on last year and economics up 5.7 per cent the subjects driving the overall gain are far broader. Boys improved year-on-year in the share of top grades in 25 out of the 41 subjects on offer, according to the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). Girls did so in only 16. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amongst courses available in all UK nations, boys performance increased the most in art and design (up 2.8 points), modern languages (up 2.8 points) and drama (up 2.3 points). But the impact of the most subscribed subjects, even if small, cannot be ignored. Maths was the most popular once again for both genders, accounting for 12.7 per cent of papers handed in this summer. While boys equation-solving skills held firm their A*/A share rising 0.1 points the girls lost a full percentage point. Factoring in the number of candidates sitting each exam to obtain their weighted contribution to the overall change reveals that chemistry had the biggest influence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boys share of top grades in chemistry, their fourth most popular subject, rose 1.2 points from 34.3 to 35.5 per cent. The roughly 28,000 boys producing that result alone dragged their sexs all-round result up by 8.3 per cent. Their newfound prowess in art and design came second (a 7.3 per cent boost), followed by business studies (6.7 per cent). Another hint comes from the headline result split by age. Adding an extra decimal shows the headline difference between the genders across all UK candidates came to 0.26 points (so actually 0.3 when rounding). But looking at the grade distribution for 18-year-old candidates alone, this space shrinks to 0.12 points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Exam-sitters of this age made up the vast majority of candidates 807,420 out of the total 882,509, or around 91.5 per cent. This suggests that among the 75,000-odd entries in other age groups, such as pupils taking their A-levels early aged 16 or 17 or people who resat them after the age of 18, the male contingent excelled. National figures, meanwhile, suggest English boys deserve particular acclaim. They improved the most of either gender in all three nations, up 1 point from 27.4 to 28.4 per cent. As England makes up the lions share of all UK candidates over 9 in 10 of the roughly 400,000 boys that sat exams this year they had a profound effect. For their part, English girls fought back with a gain of just 0.2 points. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Boys also made headway across the Irish Sea (up 0.7 points), where girls saw a modest decline (down 0.3 points). However, as stressed by the official examination board, the swing in favour of boys is quite marginal. The JCQ said fluctuations from one year to the next were inevitable, and that this slim disparity was well within their expected margins. Further down the grading curve, boys are not outperforming girls at all. The latter actually fared better in avoiding the lowest possible grades: 79.6 per cent of them got a C or above, compared to 76 per cent of boys. A total of 12,151 male candidates received a U (ungraded), compared with 10,252 for their female counterparts. Regional disparities Pupils in England were again outshone by their counterparts elsewhere, with 28.2 per cent of entries awarded an A* or A this summer rising to 29.5 per cent in Wales and 30.4 per cent in Northern Ireland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But this masks stark differences between the English regions, where the proportion of top grades increased everywhere except the North East and the West Midlands, where they declined one percentage point and 0.6 percentage points respectively. Pupils in the East Midlands saw the highest jump in A*s and As to 23.8 per cent up from 22.5 last year. But London remained by far the strongest region, with 32.1 per cent of A-level entries scooping the top two grades. Rutland tops the counties At an even more granular level, Rutlands reign atop the county charts continued for a seventh year in a row, according to separate data published by Ofqual since 2019. Some 41.2 per cent of candidates in the rural East Midlands shire clinched top marks in 2025, the only area where more than two-fifths of pupils were able to boast as much. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Greater Manchester, however, proved the setting for the greatest uplift in grades, rising two points since 2024 from 26.1 to 28.1 per cent A*/As. Overall, just over two-thirds of English counties (68.1 per cent) saw a rise or flatline in top grades. Grammar schools catch up to independents The attainment gap between private schools and the state sector narrowed slightly this year after selective schools posted their best ever results outside of the pandemic. Grammar schools and other selective institutions saw 43.7 per of their A-level entries receive A*s and As up one percentage point compared to 2024. Meanwhile, the share of top grades in the independent sector slipped by 0.1 percentage points to remain broadly stable at 48.5 per cent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The results come at a crucial moment for private schools as they try to prove their worth, after the Governments VAT policy forced most to raise fees by around a fifth from Jan 1. The narrowed gap between grammar schools and private schools this year will likely toughen competition in the state sector, as fee-paying parents consider their options. Struggles in STEM subjects Maths, psychology and biology remained the most popular A-level subjects this year, alone accounting for just under 30 per cent of all exams sat. Of the three, however, only maths saw an increase in entries. Excluding digital technology, only on offer in Northern Ireland, art and design subjects clocked the highest increase in top grades, rising 3.5 per cent this year, tailed by modern languages other than French, Spanish or German, media studies and English language. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The increase follows some concerns that students may be using AI tools such as ChatGPT for coursework-heavy subjects. By contrast, several core STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics) subjects experienced slight falls, with maths down 0.3 percentage points this year, chemistry down 0.1 points, and further maths down 0.2 points. 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. For the past 18 months, Pavlo has barely left his house. His reclusiveness has nothing to do with the Russian bombs and drones pounding Kyiv. It is not the air strikes he fears, but his own Ukrainian countrymen. It is draft officers, seeking to press-gang able-bodied men like him into units bound for the front that he dreads. Pavlo is no conscientious objector. He regards himself as a patriot and never questions the righteousness of Ukraines cause. Yet he and millions like him will not fight for their country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reluctance to serve or to keep serving, in the case of the ever-swelling number of deserters has long troubled Ukraine. Now, just as Donald Trump grants Vladimir Putin the one-on-one summit the Russian president has coveted for years, that reluctance is tipping into crisis. In the past 48 hours, Russian troops breached Ukrainian defences near the coal-mining town of Dobropillia, pushing nine miles into territory around the city of Pokrovsk, a long-time Russian target. The shock advance, the most significant Russian gain this year, cast Ukraines manpower problems in stark relief. Ukraine has since deployed some of its best reserves to slow the incursion, but DeepState, a monitoring group close to the defence ministry, called the situation chaotic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russian troops had found gaps in the lines, advanced and were consolidating positions and gathering forces for new advances. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, cast the push as an attempt to shape the narrative at the Trump-Putin summit, showing that Russia is advancing while Ukraine is losing ground in the hope Mr Trump will back Putins terms. That may be true, but it does not change the reality on the ground. Ukrainian concertgoers in Kharkiv. Despite the citys proximity to Russia, life can seem almost normal - Eduardo Soteras/The Telegraph The entire defence line is like a sieve, wrote Stansislav Bunyatov, a Ukrainian serviceman and blogger, a sentiment echoed by Borden Krotevhych, former chief of the Azov Brigade. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Krotevhych wrote: This chaos has been growing for a long time, worsening with each passing day. A stable line of combat, as such, effectively doesnt exist. Ukraine is visibly losing the war, says Konrad Muzkya, a Polish military analyst, largely because of the manpower crisis. So why wont men like Pavlo, 35 and a new father, enlist? Probably because I am afraid, he says, with disarming honesty. Afraid to die or, worse, lose my mind and become a burden to my family. Afraid to leave my family in poverty. Afraid that my daughter will grow up an orphan. Afraid of being captured and tortured for months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I feel ashamed of this. People look for excuses not to join the army. People tell themselves that it is the government which is wrong, or that Europe is to blame, or that someone else should be sent. But for most, its simply fear. Fear is part of it. But not the whole story. Ukrainian soldiers are fighting to hold off Russian advances as Putin pushes to capture more territory ahead of an anticipated deal - Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu via Getty When Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine had 260,000 troops. By summer that had swelled to 700,000 as volunteers flooded in. Outnumbering the invading Russians, Ukraine recaptured 5,800 square miles of territory by the end of the year. Those days are gone. Mobilising reservists, recruiting prisoners and offering financial inducements to men in the countrys left-behind villages, Russia with a far larger population regained numerical supremacy by late 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Until recently however, Ukraine compensated with superior drone power. But Russia has caught up, deploying more drones and better counter-measures, as well as becoming better at neutralising Ukraines. Ukraine has an infantry shortage while its drones, the very thing its defences hinged on, are being suppressed, says Mr Muzyka. The result is that over the past couple of months we have seen the Russians make significant pushes on several axes. Worse, Ukraines infantry is shrinking, with desertions and casualties exceeding the 200,000 mobilised last year. Around 650,000 men of fighting age are thought to have fled Ukraine. Others hide, like Pavlo, or bribe draft officers and army psychiatrists for health exemptions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fearing a public backlash, Mr Zelensky has resisted Western pressure to lower the draft age from 25 to 18, which would add 800,000 potential recruits. The desertion crisis is even starker. Unofficial estimates suggest more than 400 soldiers are abandoning the battlefield daily exhausted by years of war, frustrated by rigid, top-down command, and disheartened by those avoiding service. Mr Trumps perceived tilt towards Moscow has deepened defeatism. The collapse in morale is feeding a vicious cycle. As ranks thin, generals strip other units to fill the front line. Air force mechanics and radar operators are sent to fight as infantry where life expectancy is far shorter. That, in turn, makes evaders even more determined to stay away. Years of heavy fighting in eastern Ukraine have left towns gutted and claimed tens of thousands of soldiers lives - Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters Im not ashamed to say that Im scared of joining the infantry, says Oleksandr, a 36-year-old programmer in hiding. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement My contacts in the military say that practically every recruit from the small amount of draftees the military now gets is sent to replenish the infantry, whose ranks suffer the highest number of casualties. Ukraine increasingly feels like two countries: one fighting, the other not. In cities like Lviv, Kyiv and even Kharkiv much closer to the front line life, at a squint, can seem almost normal. Businesses open. Restaurants, night clubs and opera houses are full. One can mostly choose to ignore the war. A woman takes a selfie at the National Opera of Ukraine. In cities like Kyiv that lie further from the front line one can almost ignore the war - Eduardo Soteras/The Telegraph In the ruins of front-line towns, and on the battlefield, there is no escape. Despite the reversals, many soldiers fight on regardless. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I dont plan on stopping any time soon, says Oleg, serving near Pokrovsk, speaking shortly after losing a close friend in combat. If I quit now, I wouldnt feel like a man I wouldnt feel right. I would feel like Im letting my team and my family down. But even for the most determined, the momentum has shifted. A total collapse remains unlikely, but the danger is that the defeatist mood becomes self-fulfilling. Mr Muzkya points out: When you are losing and there is a manpower shortage then obviously, if you are a Ukrainian male, your willingness to join up is far smaller than in 2022 when Ukraine was pushing the Russians back and looked like it was winning. 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. DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) The Dayton Public School Board is suing the state of Ohio, bringing the hot-button issue of busing to the courts. Dayton Public Schools is pushing back on state legislation, stating an amendment to the state budget specifically targeted the district and left little time to find solutions before the school year began. DPS files lawsuit against state of Ohio over student busing According to the 19-page lawsuit filed Monday with the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, DPS is seeking an injunction from the state of Ohio, in the hopes of being able to use RTA busing while they look for more transportation solutions for 9-12 graders. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Due to bus shortages, DPS high schoolers have been using RTA public transit for years to get to school. In the past, the district was able to pay for and give students bus passes for free, but a new state amendment is now preventing that option. The lawsuit claims that the amendment specifically targets Montgomery County based off of census data, and will now prohibit DPS from using the RTA because of the centralized hub and transfers downtown. The amendment was made in the 2025 state budget, with lawmakers citing student safety as the reason for the change. But DPS says they now cannot buy bus passes for students and stay within the regulations of the new state law. The amendment just said you cant transfer students downtown. It doesnt say they cannot buy bus passes, so thats something they need to work out with the RTA, said State Rep. Phil Plummer (R-39). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plummer says this issue is something the district needs to figure out with the RTA, but district leaders and RTA officials cite bus driver shortages are preventing them from creating new routes that avoid downtown. The law has had conflicting viewpoints from the start initially it would have outlawed students using transfer hubs in downtown areas of Ohios four biggest cities, but was later narrowed down to just include Dayton based on population. State Rep. Desiree Tims says she fears this limit on transportation will contribute to chronic absenteeism. I, myself, sent two letters to the governor asking him to veto that portion of the budget because I knew then, which we are seeing now, this is going to impact people in a meaningful way, meaning kids will have no way to get to schools, said State Rep. Desiree Tims (D-38). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plummer argues this isnt the states problem to solve the responsibility falls on the district and DPS families. Because the parents can get the kids to school and it could be an inconvenience, I understand that. But I got my children to school. My parents got me to school, right? We need to put some responsibility on the parents as well, said Plummer. As the district searches for solutions, they have filed an injunction in the hopes of giving them more time to figure out how to best serve their students. DPS cannot comment on pending litigation, but Superintendent Dr. David Lawrence shared the following statement with 2 NEWS: It has become clear that our community does not agree with the Ohio Legislatures decision to halt our use of RTA busing. 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. Dr. David Lawrence, DPS superintendent While local lawmakers have differing viewpoints on how to solve the issue, everyone agrees something must be done to ensure safe transportation for Dayton high schoolers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plummer says RTA should do more to coordinate a transfer hub outside of downtown. Id like RTA to help manage the routes, get them out of downtown, get into a safe environment, said Plummer. Maybe they have the flexibility to handle that. Tims says the issue could be solved by finding a solution to a different issue DPS is required to bus charter school students, which led to the district needing to use the RTA for high school students in the first place. If the public schools would only be responsible for transporting their public school students, we would have enough buses, we would have enough drivers. This wouldnt be a problem, said Tims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit will see its first hearing in Franklin County courts on Thursday, Aug. 14. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com. The US State Department has issued an updated travel warning for Americans visiting Mexico, citing risks of terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. The move follows months of intense pressure from President Donald Trump over issues such as immigration and the activities of criminal gangs involved in drug smuggling and human trafficking. Here is what we know: What happened? On Tuesday, the United States government issued a new travel alert for Mexico, warning of terrorist violence in 30 of its 32 states. Its the first time Washington has ever sounded the alarm on Mexico for terrorism risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The advisory paints a grim picture: soaring rates of homicide, kidnapping, carjacking and robbery, alongside a new warning of possible terrorist attacks and terrorist violence. There is a risk of terrorist violence, including attacks and related activities, it warned, urging Americans to take precautions. The travel alert was raised to Level 2 exercise increased caution on a scale of four levels. Which places did the US warn about and why? The alert warns Americans not to travel to Colima, Guerrero, Michoacan, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas provinces due to terrorism, violent crime, and kidnapping. These states are marked red on the map and classified as Level 4 the most unsafe, per the US. Travellers are advised to reconsider visiting Baja California, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Morelos, and Sonora for the same reasons; these appear in orange and are rated Level 3, or marginally safer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another 16 states including Mexico City, the State of Mexico, Quintana Roo, Oaxaca, Tabasco, Morelos, Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Durango, Hidalgo, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Puebla, Queretaro, San Luis Potosi, Tlaxcala, and Veracruz fall under exercise increased caution. While there are no outright travel bans, the advisory notes that both violent and non-violent crimes are common. These areas are shown in yellow and are listed under Level 2. Only Yucatan and Campeche remain at Level 1, the lowest risk level, highlighted in blue. Interactive_Mexico_Travel_Advisory_August14_2025-02-1755160351 What is the backdrop for this advisory? According to experts, these actions follow increased pressure from Trump, which has prompted the Mexican government to take a range of measures. Earlier this week, Mexico extradited 26 alleged cartel members to the US, in what appeared to be an effort to ease Trumps demands for stronger action against fentanyl smuggling and organised crime. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In a statement, the US embassy said those extradited included key figures from the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel, Mexicos two most powerful organised crime groups. We recognize @GabSeguridadMX for its dedication and commitment. This action reflects the strength of our bilateral cooperation as sovereign partners and our shared commitment to ensure our peoples security and well being. https://t.co/XbuqLNtmNK Embajador Ronald Johnson (@USAmbMex) August 13, 2025 This marks the second mass transfer of the year; in February, Mexican authorities sent 29 alleged cartel leaders to the US, a move that stirred debate over its political and legal merits. Among them was Caro Quintero, a founding member of the Guadalajara Cartel, accused of murdering DEA agent Enrique Kiki Camarena in 1985. US officials had requested the extraditions, pledging not to seek the death penalty. Mexico described the suspects as high-risk criminals tied to drug trafficking and other serious offences. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While extraditions are not uncommon, they are typically carried out in ones and twos. But this year alone, Mexico has already handed over 55 people. The transfers follow months of US pressure, reinforced by tariff threats, and reports that Trump directed the Pentagon to consider military action against Latin American cartels. According to those reports, the order would permit direct military operations on foreign soil and in corresponding territorial waters against organised criminal groups. Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum has said the US and Mexico are close to finalising a security agreement to boost cooperation against cartels, but she has firmly rejected the idea of unilateral US military operations on Mexican soil. How has Mexico responded to the new alert? Sheinbaum downplayed the updated travel advisory. She argued the change stems from Washingtons decision to label cartels as terrorist organisations done through an executive order earlier this year rather than from any new security reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sheinbaum stressed that Mexico remains the top destination for US travellers, with about a million Americans living in the country, and noted that popular areas such as the Southeast, Baja California Peninsula, Pacific coast, and Mexico City continue to attract visitors despite the warning. How bad is Mexicos violence problem? Bad, but its improving. According to a 2024 report from Human Rights Watch, violent crime in Mexico has risen sharply since the government began its war on organised crime in 2006. However, this year, Sheinbaum can report a 25.3 percent drop in daily homicides over her first 11 months in office, from 86.9 per day in September 2023 to 64.9 now the lowest monthly figures since 2015. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While Mexico remains one of the worlds most violent countries, the decline is seen as a significant improvement, credited to her administrations security strategy, but also US pressure. When Trump took office, he quickly warned Mexico that it had to show real progress in stopping the flow of fentanyl, a drug that has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans, or face steep trade tariffs. He promised to push Mexico harder to curb drug trafficking and illegal migration, making it clear there would be serious economic consequences if it didnt act. In Sheinbaums first year in office, authorities have seized more than 3.5 million fentanyl pills and arrested at least 29,000 suspects, including high-level cartel leaders with local and national reach. Security chief Omar Garcia Harfuch credited the success to the crucial work of specialised intelligence and investigative units. However, in places like Sinaloa, the bloodshed escalated sharply after the arrests of major figures, including Ismael Zambada, the leader of the Sinaloa cartel, in August 2024. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement During the first six months of this year, authorities recorded 883 homicides in the state, up from just 224 in the same period last year, with most killings concentrated in Culiacan. The violence may be only part of the toll. Since Zambadas arrest, more than 1,500 people have gone missing in Sinaloa. Security officials believe criminal groups are behind many of these disappearances, suggesting the real cost of the crackdown could be even higher. Zambada, one of Mexicos most notorious accused drug lords, was captured at an airfield near El Paso, Texas, alongside Ovidio Guzman, a son of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman the former leader of the Sinaloa Cartel who is serving a life sentence in a US prison. Zambada claims Guzman Lopez kidnapped him and handed him over to US authorities. WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) A Wichita Falls family is preparing for the fight of their lives as doctors diagnosed their unborn baby with a serious heart condition. At just a few months into pregnancy, Kammy Sanders and Anthony Powell received devastating news during a routine anatomy scan. Doctors found that their baby Kamden, has a major congenital heart defect (CHD), meaning his tiny heart wont be able to function properly without surgery shortly after birth. According to Kamdens family, Wichita Falls doesnt have a pediatric cardiac surgery unit, so Kamden will be delivered in Fort Worth, Texas, for immediate care at Cook Childrens Hospital. His recovery is expected to take at least six weeks, forcing the family to temporarily relocate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its just having babies is expensive as it is, and then when you found out that, youre going to stay in the hospital for months after theyre born and care for him, said Sanders. Obviously, Im not gonna be able to work, and were going to have to travel to Fort Worth. But the journey doesnt end after Kamdens surgery. Hes going to need pretty much lifelong care with a specialist for his heart, and its just its a lot to adjust because you have to adjust your plans that you had, said Sanders. Hes due in December, and my original plan was, Im going to be home around the Christmas tree with the newborn, and now its uncertain. With the expenses of travel, lodging, and time away from work, Kamdens family quickly realized they would need help. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I sent out a flyer and sent it on Facebook just to get support, and we would have people put my baby in their prayers, and we dont really know where to go from there, but any recommendations would be appreciated, said Sanders. Friends and family have launched the #heartsforkamden fundraiser to help cover the costs so his mother can be by his side during surgery and recovery. If you would like to donate, 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 Texomashomepage.com. Wild rabbits with strange black growths on their heads have caused concern among Colorado residents, with some referring to them as Frankenstein rabbits. According to The New York Times, officials say locals and pet owners do not need to fear the unsightly rabbits, as they are simply infected with cottontail rabbit papillomavirus. The disease is a mostly benign infection that doesnt spread to other species. Kara Van Hoose, a spokeswoman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, said that the rabbits typically overcome the disease on their own. The growths are only concerning if they hinder the animals ability to eat or see, per The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement These growths can resemble gross warts, tentacles or horns, and many people have been posting about the phenomenon on social media. OCTO-BUNNY: Rabbits in Fort Collins with Tentacle-like Growths Explained In Fort Collins, Colorado, rabbits have been observed with unusual growths resembling tentacles, caused by the Shope papilloma virus, a condition that leads to benign tumors. These growths, often mistaken pic.twitter.com/IrcUWeThOz Doolly Noted (@doollynoted) August 13, 2025 The disease is transmitted to rabbits through biting insects such as fleas and mosquitoes, making it more common in the summer. There isnt a cure or treatment for the disease most infected rabbits will survive, and eventually the growths will go away, according to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website. The sightings of infected rabbits have been in and around Fort Collins, Colorado, 65 miles north of Denver, according to The Associated Press. Officials are unsure how many rabbits are infected, since people could be reporting the same ones repeatedly, per The New York Times. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While the disease cannot spread to humans and other animals, the CPW recommends that people stay away from infected rabbits and enjoy the novelty of their appearance from afar. Nature is metal, Van Hoose said to The New York Times, and this can be kind of cool looking on different rabbits. The disease can infect pet rabbits, and people should keep their rabbits inside if they see infected wild rabbits in the area, per The New York Times. The disease is more severe in domesticated rabbits and, in some cases, can cause cancer. According to CPWs website, pet owners should take their rabbits to a veterinarian if they become infected. Aug. 13Wildfire smoke wafting in from the Bear Gulch fire in Olympic National Park is to blame for the thin veil of haze that hovered over the Spokane area Wednesday. Lisa Woodard, the communications manager for the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency, said the air quality index reached the moderate level of 85 in Spokane as of 4:35 p.m. The air quality index is a scale ranked from zero to 500. Zero to 50 is good, 51 to 100 is moderate, 101 to 150 is classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups, 151 to 200 is unhealthy, 201 to 300 is very unhealthy, while hazardous is 301 to 500. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While some residual smoke may be pouring down from fires in British Columbia, Woodard said that the majority of the wildfire smoke is from the Olympic Peninsula . As of Wednesday morning, the Bear Gulch fire in Olympic Park burned approximately 7,400 acres and was only 3% contained. Woodard said that historically, most significant smoke days are from mid-August to mid-September. "Just because we've had a pretty good summer thus far in terms of smoke, it's not uncommon for us to start seeing these situations as we get into mid-August, when things are really hot and dry," Woodard said. "So this is that critical time where we have seen smoke impacts in past years." In terms of health impacts, Woodard said as long as the air quality index remains under 100, only people who are unusually sensitive to wildfire smoke should be affected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Good or moderate are considered within the health-based standards," Woodard said. "That said, there are some people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution, and they probably know who they are, and they are going to want to take those precautions to reduce their exposure outdoors." It's possible that the air quality will become unhealthy for sensitive groups overnight, but Woodard said changing wind patterns make it hard to know for certain. The rest of Wednesday night is expected to remain in the upper-moderate level. Woodard encourages folks to check out a new website called smokereadyspokane.org to learn about resources and ways to reduce exposure to potentially hazardous smoke. Woodard calls the website a one-stop shop covering everything from health effects, what's in smoke and even how to improve indoor air quality. Anyone who wants an accurate air quality index updated hourly by the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency can visit spokanecleanair.org. "I think today is just a good reminder that this is smoke season," Woodard said. "Even though we've had a pretty mild summer thus far in terms of smoke, it's just something to take note of and to make sure that you have the resources on hand that you may need to ensure that your exposure to smoke is minimized." The Florida Python Challenge is arguably the most well-known and well-attended snake hunt in the country. And according to the results released Wednesday, the 2025 Challenge that took place in July was one of the biggest yet. More than 900 participants competed in the 10-day event, and they removed 294 of the invasive snakes, which officials say is a new record. The winners were announced at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission meeting in Havana on Aug. 13. As in past years, prizes were awarded for the most pythons caught, and the longest pythons caught, with different categories for professional snake hunters and novices. Taylor Stanberry, a 29-year-old wildlife rehabilitator and python removal contractor based in Naples, won the Ultimate Grand Prize with 60 pythons, making her the first-ever female participant to win the whole thing. Outdoor Life caught up with Stanberry over the phone Thursday morning, the day after she claimed her $10,000 grand-prize paycheck from FWC. We discussed her background hunting Burmese pythons and working with wildlife. We also talked about how she finds the giant but elusive snakes, and why education is so important when it comes to managing invasive species. The following interview has been condensed and edited for clarity: Q&A with Taylor Stanberry Outdoor Life: So, first off. How did you win? Like, what was like the main tactic that you guys used, and how were you able to find so many snakes? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Taylor Stanberry: Well, Ive been hunting pythons for more than 10 years, so I kind of know the general areas and the kinds of habitats to find them in. I have a john boat, but my husband and I also take out e-bikes, we drive. And, of course, we hike. So we have to use those different methods [and vehicles] to look for pythons in all these different areas. OL: It sounds like the general idea is to just cover as much ground as you can. Are you doing this mostly at night? TS: Yeah. Right now its summer, and you rarely see a python during the day this time of year. So its all nighttime hunting. We typically start at 8pm, or when it gets dark, and well go until 5am. OL: Can you talk a little more about the kinds of areas youre looking in? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TS: Well if were talking about the Python Challenge, you have to hunt certain areas that are approved, like specific locations. But in general, when youre hunting at night, pythons could be hanging out by canals to try and get water or eat an alligator, so you want to look near canals. A lot of times, youre just driving on roads because these snakes are often moving. Theyre looking for food or habitat or a new home. So road cruising is really effective. And if you happen to find babies in the road or maybe in a tree, that means you probably have a nest nearby, and you really want to hike around and cover that area. OL: Okay. So, what youre really hoping to find are young snakes. TS: Yeah, so July, when the Challenge was going on, is when nests are hatching. And thats really how I won. By finding nests, including the eggs. And then the momma snakes are also getting off the nests as they hatch. And of course, youll find other size snakes too, but babies are the biggest thing to find, at least this time of year. OL: That makes sense. What interesting things have you learned about python behavior from all this hunting youve done over the last 10 years? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TS: Honestly, its hard to say. Because I can go out at night when I think conditions are perfect. You know, its humid out, it just rained the day before, maybe a few hours before, and pythons should be moving. But then theyre not. So, really, to me, theyre still a mystery in a sense. They just happen to be one of the more common snakes here in South Florida, so theyre easy to find compared to the native wildlife that I would prefer to find. There are some things Ive noticed, though. Like with babies, for example. When theyre hatching, they climb trees, and normally you dont find pythons in trees. So if you do find babies in trees, that means there is probably a nest nearby. And then with the breeding females. When the moms sit on the nest for a few months, they dont eat for that entire time, they just stay there. As soon as those eggs hatch, theyre moving to find food and going back to an area where they normally live. OL: Interesting. What was the biggest snake that you caught during the Challenge? TS: [Laughs] So, its gonna sound really pathetic and small. It was only 9-and-a-half feet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OL: That does not sound pathetic and small to me. That sounds like a giant snake. TS: No, thats small. The most common ones we were finding during the Challenge were like 5 to 10 feet, which is a pretty common size, but 9-and-a-half-feet, I think it was like 15 pounds. Thats not too crazy for me. Im used to catching 14-, 15, even 18-footers. Stanberry with a giant roadside python she caught in 2021. Photo via Instagram OL: And whats the biggest python youve ever caught? TS: There was one time, and this was many years ago. It was a fun night. My husband and I were out, and this was before everyone was out hunting these roads, this was seven years ago I want to say. And we got two 18-footers in one night crossing the road. Our truck was full. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year I havent been as lucky. I think I caught a 15-footer. But two 18-footers in a night was something. OL: Yeah, Ill bet. Now, remind me. Part of the rules with the Challenge is youre required to catch them by hand, right? TS: Yes. So, a lot of people always ask, Why dont you just shoot them on sight? But were often in areas where you arent legally allowed to shoot. And yeah, during the challenge, youre not allowed to use firearms anyways. Since Im in the professional category, I am allowed to catch them by hand and bring them home to then euthanize them. Which is really the best way, because if you shoot a python in the nose or the side of the head, they can survive that and get away. They dont die very easily. Stanberry (right) and her husband with a giant, 17-footer they caught together in South Florida. Photo via Instagram OL: So, the snakes you caught during the Challenge. What are you doing with all of them? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement TS: For the hatchlings, the babies, I sell those as food for other animals king cobras, alligators or crocodilians, theyll all eat baby pythons. So I sell most of those to people who keep exotic animals. And then the bigger snakes we catch, anything 6 feet or over, I sell to a leather company. OL: What do you like about python hunting? TS: Really, Im just doing it to save the native wildlife, to be honest. I dont like the actual killing of the snakes because I really like snakes and animals, so that part of it I dont really enjoy. But I have noticed just in the last eight years since Ive moved to Naples I lived in Orlando before. Ive just seen huge differences. Like, the bunny rabbits are gone. You dont see as many rattle snakes or corn snakes in areas where pythons are super prominent. And that means theyre just eating all the native wildlife. So Im really just doing it to try to help this ecosystem. Read Next: Scientists Photograph Giant Python Swallowing a Full-Sized Whitetail Whole in First-of-Its-Kind Discovery Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement OL: And did you grow up in Florida? TS: We moved to Florida when I was six years old. I am from New York originally, but I dont really remember being there. OL: So, as a kid. Did you just gravitate toward wildlife, like catching little snakes and stuff like that? TS: I was my dads only kid. So he took me fishing. And wed catch toads, and Id bring the toads home and swim in the bath tub with them. And as soon as we moved to Florida, I was always catching bugs, and little snakes, or just looking at birds and stuff. Ive always been obsessed with wildlife and animals. OL: Thats cool. And how did you turn it into a profession? Because you have an exotic wildlife rehabilitation center, right? TS: Yeah, so Ive had monkeys since I was 14 years old. The state actually gives me monkeys that need to be re-homed because theyre too aggressive. So Ive been working with monkeys for around 15 years now. Ive also kept and taken care of tortoises. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But I didnt become a professional python contractor until maybe six years ago. Ive been catching them for 11 years but I finally applied, so Ive been doing that with FWC for six or seven years. And thats why Im considered a professional in the Python Challenge, because I do it for a living. Technically its a side job, but OL: And theres also an amateur side of the Challenge too, right? So, if you are new to this, whats the key to catching a python without getting yourself hurt? TS: I mean. You just gotta be smart with it. As soon as you grab them by the back of the head by the neck, youre seen as the predator. Youre hurting them. So, theyre going to start trying to wrap you. The key is to make sure they dont coil around you. And honestly if they do coil around you, and you let go of the neck, theyll usually let go of you, You just have to stay smart and keep watching them. Usually you want to have a friend with you so they can help unwrap you if needed. Also, just dont grab a snake that you dont think you can handle. For me, the max I can really grab by myself is like 14- or 15-feet. Once it gets over that, I need a friend nearby. OL: So when you have a big snake like that, whats the plan? Its usually you and your husband working together, right? So, whats the strategy once you guys are ready to grab it? TS: Usually if were boating or driving, hell be the driver because hes better at that than me. Ill be honest. And Im usually the one getting out and grabbing the snake just because, I dont know, I enjoy doing it more. Like I said, I can grab a 14- or 15-footer no issue. I grab them by the back of the head and theyll start coiling, but I know how to get out of it. Ill keep hopping out of the coil, or Ill just push them off. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For me, its like, I dont know, Ive been doing it for so long that its easy. Its almost second nature. Just grab it and dont get coiled. OL: Yeah, easy [laughs]. Talk to me about the social media part. You guys have a pretty big YouTube following and a bunch of engagement on your Instagram. So what is that all about? TS: When it comes to social media, I dont promote the pythons as much just because everyone gets worked up about killing snakes, killing any animals, and thats not really what Im trying to put out there. Im more about education. I like to travel around the world looking for animals to film and take photos of, so I can kind of educate people about why these animals are good. Especially snakes. A lot of people are scared of snakes, they hate snakes, because thats just what were taught growing up. So I try to do a lot of education around that. But of course, people like seeing pythons, and they arent good for [our] wildlife, so you do have to euthanize them. I also do rattle snake and cottonmouth relocations, and I dont kill those. But you know how social media is. People can be really mean. I kind of just laugh at that stuff now. It doesnt really bother me. OL: Yeah. I imagine its kind of tricky when it comes to pythons versus native snakes. Because with native snakes, you want more of them, and youre focused on killing the pythons. But on social media, it seems like everything is either good or its bad. So people just see snakes and theyre like, Kill em all! Which is kind of the opposite of what youre trying to promote, right? TS: Exactly. People are like, You like snakes, but youre killing them? And its hard to explain to some people that the overall thing youre doing is good. Like I said, I dont like killing the pythons, but you gotta do what you gotta do to help the native wildlife. OL: Yeah. And Im curious about that message. Because the Python Challenge has been going on for a long time now, and theres been a ton of media attention around catching pythons. Discovery Channel shows and all that stuff. Do you think this message around invasive pythons and why theyre bad is starting to hit home now, finally? TS: Yes, I do. You still get the people who ask, Why you are harassing animals and killing them? They just dont understand. But over the last, say, 10 years, I think people appreciating native snakes has gotten a lot more popular. So Im excited about that. Even my friends in Chicago, they saw the news about me winning the Python Challenge, and they were like, Oh yeah! Youre getting invasive snakes, I didnt know you did that. So even people in other states know about the issues around invasive pythons here. But theres still a lot of education needed. OL: Had you done the Python Challenge before? TS: I have not. Im usually out of town. And honestly, it can be so hectic with all the novices going out and everyone going crazy, its not really my vibe. But I was like, Hey, you know what? Im gonna try this year. Why not? OL: And you won. Stanberry won the ultimate grand prize at the 2025 Python Challenge and was awarded a check for $10,000. Photo by FWC TS: Yeah, I was like, Look at me. Im gettin it. I also found out Im the first female ultimate winner, which was shocking. Because Ive known a lot of amazing women who have gotten first place in the professional category but they didnt win the ultimate prize. So its definitely an honor when there are so many other awesome females and males out there competing. OL: What are you gonna do with the prize money? TS: So, I have the exotic rescue. Im gonna be expanding some of those cages. And also gas money for more python hunting. Because that comes out of my pocket. And that money will go fast, between cages and gas. OL: I hear you. One other thing I was wondering. The places where you hunt really aggressively. Have you noticed a positive impact there in terms of native wildlife? Read Next: These Snake Trackers Have Removed More than 20 Tons of Invasive Pythons from Florida and Theyre Just Getting Started TS: In certain areas, yes. Im seeing more opossums not tons and a few more raccoons. I have not seen more bunny rabbits. And in other areas, no, not much of a difference. Some of these places youre just getting the roadside pythons. Other hunters arent getting deep into the Everglades and getting those. So it depends on where you go. I mean, pythons, once they hit 4 feet in the first year, theres just not many predators to get them besides alligators. They just do so well out there, especially where they arent getting hit by cars or found by people. They are thriving. Dac Collins contributed reporting. The Willard Peak Fire in North Ogden that prompted evacuations and threatened homes burns on Thursday, covering more than 750 acres, though no homes or buildings have been torched. We still have an active fire, said Kelly Wickens, the Utah Department of Natural Services official serving as spokeswoman for the firefighting effort. The fire on the mountainside just above North Ogden in the shadow of Ben Lomond Peak started Wednesday afternoon. It burned through the night, with orange fire spots visible from afar on the mountainside, and officials had yet to contain any of it as of Thursday morning, she said, though firefighters kept up their efforts around the clock. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The fire burned right to the homes but no homes were lost, Wickens said. A helicopter drops water on the Willard Peak wildfire in the mountains above North Ogden on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News A section of northeastern North Ogden abutting the fire area had to be evacuated Wednesday given the proximity of the fire. The evacuation order will remain in effect, even though officials said Wednesday night it would be lifted 9 a.m. Thursday. The city of North Ogden Facebook page said the evacuation order would remain in place until 5 p.m. Thursday while Wickens was more open-ended. Well reevaluate that through the day, she said. On Wednesday, fire officials had said the wildfire had extended to 200-300 acres, but Wickens said they were able to actually map the fire zone, getting a more accurate gauge of its extent, 754 acres as of Thursday morning. The fire zone spreads largely up the mountain north of the site where it started near the 3400 block of 1050 East. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though the fire isnt yet contained, Wickens said firefighters doused hot spots overnight. The focus of firefighters Thursday will be preventing the fire from reaching structures and containment. Three helicopters and several airplanes are available to help spread fire retardant. A burn scar from the Willard Peak wildfire is pictured between houses in North Ogden on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News Crews face critical fire weather today as hand crews tackle steep terrain. Follow evacuation orders & avoid the area, reads a post on the social platform X from UtahFireInfo, operated by the state of Utah as a clearinghouse of information about fires around the state. As firefighting continues, officials are still investigating the cause. The call for the fire came in around 2 p.m. Wednesday and when North View Fire District firefighters arrived at the location on 1050 East, they found a parked car fully engulfed in flames where 1050 turns from pavement into a dirt road. Just up the mountain, there were two additional fires in the brush three separate fires in all, according to Jeremiah Jones, deputy chief for the fire district. Layton City firefighters work at the scene of the Willard Peak wildfire in the mountains above North Ogden on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News A shelter for those evacuated was set up in Pleasant View at a meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, operated by the Red Cross of Northern Utah. Michael Smauldon, executive director of the Red Cross branch, said eight families stayed at the location, four inside the shelter and four on the meetinghouse grounds in their own trailers. The North Ogden Divide was closed Wednesday but had reopened as of Thursday morning, the city of North Ogden said on Facebook. This story will be updated. A car chase that began in Wilmington on the afternoon of Aug. 14 ended with the fleeing vehicle crashing on I-95 north in Chester, Pennsylvania, snarling traffic in the area, according to Delaware police and first responder radio communications. The pursuit, led by Wilmington police but which involved Delaware State Police and at least one Pennsylvania police agency, began before 3:20 p.m. By 3:25 p.m., more than a dozen police cars had crossed from Delaware into Pennsylvania. At least 17 Wilmington and Delaware police vehicles could be seen speeding north as the chase was ongoing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement READ: Delaware State University President Tony Allen charged with DUI: Court documents What happened Wilmington officers were trying to stop a vehicle in the city when police said the vehicle's driver rammed two police cars. The crash caused minor damage, according to preliminary information provided by Wilmington police. The vehicle then fled onto I-95 with Wilmington police and Delaware State Police following. The pursuit continued into Pennsylvania, where the vehicle struck a median, then hit another vehicle before coming to a stop. There were no injuries reported, police said. The driver and a passenger, both 18-year-old men, were taken into custody without further incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Both men remain in custody in Pennsylvania. Charges in Pennsylvania and Delaware are pending further investigation. The chase drew attention on social media, with users noting I-95 was busy at the time. Police could be seen driving on the shoulder during the frenzy. Drivers in the area and those heading north on I-95 out of Delaware should expect delays. Got a story tip or idea? Send to Isabel Hughes at ihughes@delawareonline.com. For all things breaking news, follow her on X at @izzihughes_ This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Chester, PA, crash result of Wilmington police chase, snarling traffic WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN) About 17 miles from Downtown Nashville right off highway 70, youll find cows, pigs, goats and chickens. Come on in, they are fine! Baylor Bates said, walking into the chicken coop. We got a lot of eggs! Baylor and his sister Andie Kate are fifth generation farmers. Their parents, really, are the ones in charge. So welcome! You are at Southern Rhythm Cattle Company, Brian Bates said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farming is often called the backbone of America. However, Bates said its dwindling in Wilson County due to new development and growth. We are losing a lot of farmlands by the weeks due to development and growth, Bates said. Brian and Katie Bates live on 50 acres of land in Wilson County. (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) For the area, it is very large, Bates said. But on an agricultural spectrum, its very small, and were limited to what we can do here. The Bates have decided to use farmland in more ways than one. Theyve opened up a market on their property where they sell all things local like meat, eggs and other goods from small, local businesses. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We stay rooted in trying to teach people agriculture and the basis of why we are here and why we are important, Katie Bates said. In addition to that, they started an agritourism business on the farm, offering birthday parties and class field trips. We came from our market, and we like to call this our classroom, Katie said. There are lots of different activities and events for people of all ages like concerts with the cows and goat yoga. Its just one way to both preserve and reinvent farm life. Most of the time, its people petting goats and doing a little bit of yoga when the goats arent paying attention to you, Katie said. A lot of selfies! Brian chimed in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement News 2 On Tour | Explore the communities that shape Middle Tennessee This is Princess Becky, Andie Kate said, introducing News 2 to the pig that shell show in the Wilson County Tennessee State Fair. Hes a boy and his name is Leonardo, Baylor said, showing his pig. While they work hard to preserve farmland, the Bates also hope their kids will keep the family tradition of farming alive. Watching our kids grow up as we were growing up, its what we dreamed of doing, Brian said. So I guess as they say, we are living the dream right now and enjoying it. Teaching them their responsibilities on the farm and where our food comes and being able to do that every day and be out here on the beauty of what God created it really is a blessing, Katie said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The last two concerts with the cows will be on September 6 and October 11. You can purchase those tickets on the Southern Rhythm Cattle Company Facebook page closer to the event. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Conservative influencer and anti-DEI agitator Robby Starbuck has a new role: advising tech giant Meta on how to prevent bias in its artificial intelligence systems. The partnership is part of a settlement agreement Meta announced on Friday, after Starbuck sued the company in April accusing it of defamation by its AI chatbot. In his complaint, Starbuck alleged that Meta AI had repeatedly and falsely produced answers to queries about him stating that he had participated in the attack on the US Capitol on January, 6, 2021. Starbuck and Meta Chief Global Affairs Officer Joel Kaplan shared a joint statement on Friday, saying the two parties had resolved this matter to our mutual satisfaction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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, the statement reads. Building on that work, Meta and 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. Starbuck is a former Hollywood music video director who gained attention last year for online campaigns against some major American brands diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, support for gay Pride marches and LGBTQ events, efforts to slow climate change and other social policies. He has targeted brands popular with politically conservative customers such as Harley-Davidson, Tractor Supply Co. and John Deere and in some cases, claimed credit for companies scaling back such programs. The agreement will give the high-profile right-wing activist a say in one of the most widely used AI systems, and at a time when Meta is investing heavily in the tech as it aims to reach what it calls AI superintelligence. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said in May that 1 billion people are using Meta AI each month across the companys apps, although its not clear how the company measures use of the tool. The move also follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump last month as part of the White Houses AI action plan that seeks to scrub AI models of so-called woke ideals. The order prohibits the federal government from procuring AI technology infused with partisan bias or ideological agendas such as critical race theory and says AI models should prioritize factors including historical accuracy and scientific inquiry, although experts have said determining what qualifies as bias in an AI system will be tricky. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starbuck originally sought $5 million in damages with his lawsuit. Meta declined to comment on any financial terms of the settlement. A Meta spokesperson declined to comment on whether Starbuck is being paid for his advisory work, nor whether the company works with other such AI advisors. Starbuck told CNBC in an interview Friday: In terms of the monetary side and everything, I think that the big focus for us is really fixing this. That was the big reason why I decided to move forward not just with the lawsuit but with this settlement we wanted to fix the problem for everybody. Starbuck did not return CNNs request for comment. Meta has undergone a broader ideological shift to the right this year. Since January, the company has replaced its policy chief with Kaplan, a prominent Republican who previously worked in the George W. Bush White House; added Trump ally and UFC CEO Dana White to its board; and scrapped its partnerships with third-party fact-checkers that had been criticized by the right as politically biased, despite a lack of evidence to that effect. In a statement posted to X last week, Starbuck said, delivering fairness for consumers is the outcome Ive always wanted. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As we move into a future where AI dominates many parts of our world, now you know that you have an unshakeable voice at the table to advocate for ideological fairness, he said, adding that he planned to say more after we complete our work. Starbuck told CNN last year that he wants US corporations to take a neutral stance on social issues, describing his activism as corporate accountability for companies that depend on conservative consumers. Experts in business management have noted that companies generally dont take measures on diversity and climate because of a political stance, but rather as a business decision. Nathaniel Meyersohn and Lisa Eadicicco contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Aug. 13WINONA, Minn. A Winona faces charges after police say she took videos of two men using duct tape to bind a child and then repeatedly scare him. Joseline Puente Gundersen, 20, is charged in Winona County District Court with felony child torture. According to search warrants and the criminal complaint filed in the case, police were called on July 29, 2025, to a senior living center in Winona where Gundersen works. Co-workers told investigators Gundersen had shown them videos she said she took the day before of the child in which two other people can be seen scaring the child. The child was identified as 4 in the search warrant and is listed as an "approximate" age of 3 in the criminal complaint. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police spoke to Gundersen about the videos. She confirmed she had taken three videos but had deleted them. According to the complaint, Gundersen didn't seem to think the videos were a "big deal" and that putting duct tape on the child was a form of punishment. Police filed a search warrant for Gundersen's Snapchat account and received videos Aug. 11. In the first video, the child is in a chair and has black duct tape over his mouth and can be heard screaming while his wrists and ankles are bound together. An adult can be seen putting a neck pillow around the child's neck. A woman can be heard laughing in the video, according to a summary of the video in the search warrant. In a second video, the same child is seen on the floor of a closet with duct tape over his mouth with his ankles and wrists bound separately. A man pulls the child from the closet and another adult, covered in a throw blanket and wearing a full-face clown mask, emerges from the closet. The other adult then repeatedly pulls the child across the floor toward the other man in the clown mask while the child screams, according to the search warrant. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Police spoke with the child's mother who said she was in the shower when the videos were taken. The mother is staying at Gundersen's apartment, according to the criminal complaint. Police have identified the other two people in the video. One of them confirmed being at the apartment but denied scaring the child. Police found black duct tape matching what was seen in the video and a full-face clown mask at Gundersen's apartment, according to the search warrant. Gundersen was taken into custody Tuesday, Aug. 12, and made her first appearance in court Wednesday, Aug. 13. She's scheduled for an initial appearance in the case Aug. 27. The Winter Park City Commission has unanimously approved one agreement and moved forward with a second that allows the multimillion-dollar renovation of Winter Park Playhouse to go ahead as hoped. Its a long time coming, said city manager Randy Knight. This was approved in concept by the commission a long time ago. Under the approved agreement, the city will purchase the land along Orange Avenue on which the Playhouse building stands. The nonprofit theater had rented its space there; the project for the city to take over the space was kicked into high gear when the buildings owners decided to sell the property, putting the theaters future in jeopardy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Much of the funding will come from an $8 million grant from Orange County, drawn from the Tourist Development Tax, a 6% levy on hotel and other short-term accommodation stays. The Winter Park Commission approved a contract with Orange County to receive the grant, which was contingent on the city buying the property. It will use about $3.8 million of the money to purchase the land at 711 N. Orange Ave. The second agreement, which was unanimously advanced by commissioners to a second reading, will see the city of Winter Park lease the space back to the Playhouse for the nominal rent of $1 per year. That agreement is good for 25 years. Critics Pick: Jerry Herman would be mighty proud of these Girls | Review This has been quite a journey, indeed, said Playhouse executive director Heather Alexander at the commission meeting. This agreement is going to solidify the future of the Playhouse in Winter Park. We are deeply, deeply grateful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Alexander said the theater is ready to move forward, reporting to commissioners that the theaters possessions have been removed from the building, an architect is already at work, and preliminary permitting has begun to make sure everything is ready to go the moment these papers are signed. The nonprofit is required by Orange County to raise a minimum of $1.6 million toward the project at its official start and will also have to fund any expenses that go beyond the $8 million grant. Alexander said more than $1 million has already been raised. Winter Park Playhouse will move to Shakespeare Center for 25-26 season While the building undergoes renovations, which will see improvements to the lobby, restrooms and the theater itself, Winter Park Playhouse is presenting its shows and cabarets at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Orlando. The nonprofit, established 23 years ago, is the only local professional theater devoted exclusively to musicals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking at the meeting, Winter Park Playhouse board member Judith Marlowe talked about the theaters national reputation, garnered in part because of its annual Florida Festival of New Musicals that draws industry professionals from around the country, and stressed that the theater had a leadership-succession plan for the future. Other concerns addressed over the lease agreement, likely to get its second reading Aug. 27, included requiring the Playhouse to give commissioners regular reports on the nonprofits activities, and allowing for the city to consider loaning the Playhouse up to $600,000, if needed, to get the Orange County money released as soon as possible. Follow me at facebook.com/matthew.j.palm or email me at mpalm@orlandosentinel.com. Find more entertainment news and reviews at orlandosentinel.com/entertainment or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter. Wisconsinites are already stepping up to help their neighbors recover from historic flooding, but comedian Charlie Berens is encouraging even more of those "Midwest nice" acts of kindness. In a post to Instagram around 2 p.m. on Aug. 14, Berens said he's giving away two free tickets to the next 100 people who DM him photos of themselves picking up trash. "I'm a Midwest guy, I got a car bag of bags, why not put it to use?" Berens says in the video, as he picks up plastic water bottles and other debris along Lake Michigan's shoreline with Milwaukee's Breakwater Lighthouse in the distance his "favorite fishing spot." "Send us your picture, we'll get you on the list, and we'll see you on the Lost and Found tour," he said. "If we don't pick it up, it goes into the water, breaks down (into microplastics) and ends up in our cheese curds." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It's possible those 100 DMs will come in pretty fast more than 50 people commented on the post within the first 30 minutes, with one local author writing, "thank you for reminding me that there are some really good people out there." More: In disaster, help serve the people whove always served you Berens, who grew up in Elm Grove and New Berlin both suburbs hit hard by flooding is a comedian, New York Times bestselling author and Emmy Award-winning journalist. He's voicing a character in an animated movie coming to Netflix this fall and has shared he's filmed a standup special. Berens' tour begins in September in Fish Creek and runs through mid-December, with several stops in non-Midwestern states. Eight dates are already sold out. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Charlie Berens offers free tour tickets for flood cleanup helpers (The Center Square) Wisconsins unemployment rate was at 3.1% in July, down from 3.2% in June. The states labor force participation rate dropped slightly to 65.0%. Both numbers were better than U.S. averages of 4.2% for unemployment and 62.2% for labor participation. The Wisconsin labor market has cooled a bit along with the national economy, said Department of Workforce Development Office of Economic Advisors Section Chief Scott Hodek. But unemployment remains historically low. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, the state labor force was down 6,700 for the month and 27,000 over the year. Hodek said that is a trend likely to continue. The states population is projected to progressively decline from the 5.96 million in 2024 by the U.S. Census to 5.71 million by 2050, according to a Wisconsins Department of Administration. The underlying labor challenge remains demographics, Hodek. The Baby Boomers are aging out and we see population declining and labor force declining. We basically have a quantity challenge that is the biggest underlying component of the economy for the coming decades. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) Weeks after a Southern Oregon hotel abruptly shut down, a woman has been accused of embezzling thousands of dollars from the business. As first reported by Jefferson Public Radio, a Jackson County jury indicted Andrea Riegelman for first-degree aggravated theft and first-degree forgery on Aug. 7. Court documents allege the 38-year-old suspect falsely wrote a check and knowingly stole at least $10,000 from the Prospect Hotel on March 26. Oregon leaders react to Blazers deal to keep team right here in Rip City Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The bed and breakfast, located about 20 miles outside of Crater Lake National Park, closed until further notice on July 14. This decision to close was not easy for us; We personally know how important the hotel is to its patrons, as well as our local community, Prospect Collective LLC wrote on the website. Unfortunately, it is necessary while we deal with certain legal and financial issues that have recently come to light. The website asks visitors to share additional information if they have ever loaned money to or received money from Riegelman, who is also identified under several other names. A recent Facebook post from the hotel claims Riegelman cofounded the LLC behind the business and served as its accountant. The post alleged she proposed purchasing the property less than a year before management discovered it had become a victim of, and was involved in fraud. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to Prospect Hotel, leadership informed authorities that employees did not receive their tips and payroll taxes were not paid under Riegelmans management. Strong legacy to live up to: Jim and Pattys Coffee resurfaces with new owner While owners hope to reopen the hotel, they said continued operations are dependent on if and when all involved parties, especially those alleged of fraud and failure of fiduciary duties, are honest about their role in the Hotels current situation with authorities. According to the hotel, the property first opened in the late 1800s although it started as a private residence. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. War declaration on display at Shenyang memorial A sculpture of soldiers marks the entrance to the museum's halls in Shenyang. Photo: RTHK The deputy head of a war museum in Shenyang said a declaration in 1931 against Japan's invasion demonstrated Chinese people's determination in fighting the war. 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. The declaration was made a day after the September 18 Incident in 1931 marking the start of Japan's invasion of China. "The September 19 declaration was the first declaration of war against Japan issued by the Communist Party of China," Zhang Lu, deputy director of the Memorial Hall of the Former Site of the CPC's Manchuria Provincial Committee, told Hong Kong reporters touring Shenyang. "It announced our political stance of resolute resistance against Japan and declared the Chinese people's strong determination to fight the Japanese invaders to the end." Zhang said the committee organised anti-Japanese armed forces in northeast China in support of nationwide resistance. In addition to the declaration, clothing, supplies and historical photographs of the troops are among the items on display. The memorial hall also features simulated guerrilla warfare. LEBANON, Tenn. (WKRN) A convicted felon was arrested after Lebanons dispatch center received a report about a road rage incident along Interstate 40 Tuesday afternoon. According to the Lebanon Police Department, callers reported the driver of a white Kia Rio was brandishing a handgun out of the window at another motorists on Tuesday, Aug. 12. Person of interest in deadly Spring Hill shooting arrested on unrelated charges Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities said they quickly tracked down the vehicle as it exited I-40 onto South Hartmann Drive. The driver described by officials as a 26-year-old woman had a handgun that matched the description given to dispatch. Law enforcement said the woman was taken into custody without incident and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime-related reports from across Middle Tennessee We greatly appreciate the swift actions of our dispatchers and officers in locating this suspect and their continued dedication to keeping our community safe! police posted on Facebook on Wednesday, Aug. 13. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement No additional details have been released about this 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 WKRN News 2. RIDGELAND, Miss. (WJTV) Ridgeland police announced a woman was arrested in connection to an animal cruelty case. Police said Megan Davis, 39, was arrested on August 14, 2025, on an outstanding arrest warrant for two counts of aggravated animal cruelty. Davis bond was set at $10,000. Megan Davis (Courtesy: Ridgeland Police Dept.) According to investigators, multiple cats were found during a welfare check on June 11, 2025, at a home. They said Davis had moved out, leaving the cats without food or water for some time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two of the cats were found deceased, and two cats were found alive in a state of malnutrition. They surviving cats were taken to the Mississippi Animal Rescue League. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A Milwaukie woman has been convicted on a burglary charge after she was linked to a crime ring behind thefts from more than 100 Multnomah County businesses, according to court documents. On July 31, 26-year-old Selena Jacobo was convicted on a first-degree burglary charge after previously entering a no-contest plea. Meanwhile, Jacobos charges for a second count of first-degree burglary, aggravated theft and criminal mischief were dismissed. Jacobo was sentenced to 180 days in jail followed by five years of probation, the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ridgefields new In-N-Out faces traffic concerns, delayed opening Jacobo was arrested in May for her alleged link to the crime ring and had a warrant for her arrest after she was indicted for burglary, theft and criminal mischief. The burglary charge is in connection with a September 2024 burglary from Portlands Shamrock Bar & Grill on 82nd Avenue, according to court documents. Surveillance video from the incident showed Jacobo and a man identified as Joshua Lucero arrive at the bar, with Lucero using a crowbar to break into the building, probable cause documents said. Surveillance video then showed the pair break into safes inside the business, with the bar owner reporting $16,000 stolen from the incident. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now KOIN Morning Digest Probable cause documents in the case connected Jacobo to an organized crime ring made up of 10 people who targeted 100 restaurants, lounges, bars and other businesses in Multnomah County. At least four people have been arrested or convicted in cases connected to the crime ring, including Courtney Carlile, Josh Lucero and Jeremiah Morgan. In a statement to KOIN 6 News, Deputy District Attorney Alex Garcia said, In this case, Ms. Jacobo admitted that she participated in one incident of commercial burglary related to the burglary ring. Although one incident, Ms. Jacobos actions are unacceptable. She and other members of the burglary ring have greatly affected Portland. Enough is enough. The Multnomah County District Attorneys Office will continue to seek justice for any and all affected by this burglary ring. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Temple, Tx (FOX 44) Temple police have released the name of the woman who died Wednesday after being taken to a hospital by a citizen. She was identified as 26-year-old Staziana Cobos, of Temple. Temple police are so far not releasing any other information other than to say the case is just listed as a death investigation pending the results of an autopsy. Police report about 8:41 a.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of East Downs Avenue for a reported disturbance. The call initially came from a bystander who said that there was a man in the street yelling that he needed medical assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before police got there, a woman was taken by car to the facility in the 1500 block of West Central Avenue. There a doctor advised the woman was deceased. Justice of the Peace Rosanne Fisher came to the scene and made formal pronouncement of death. No other details about the circumstances were being released as of Thursday morning. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44. NEED TO KNOW Angel Marie Thompson has been charged with murder and identify theft in connection to the 2007 death of Nicole Alston The partial remains of 24-year-old Alston were discovered in December 2007 in a smoldering bag at the side of the road in Hogansville, Georgia Alston was Thompson's girlfriend, according to local media reports The former girlfriend of a woman whose body was found dismembered in a bag that was then set on fire has now been charged with murder 17 years later. On Tuesday, Aug. 12, Angel Marie Thompson was booked by the Sandy Springs Police Department in Georgia and charged with one count of murder and two counts of identity theft, per online jail records seen by PEOPLE. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The offense date was listed as Dec. 6, 2007, which is when the body of Nicole Alston, 24, was discovered in Hogansville, Georgia. Alston's "remains were partial as the hands, feet and head were missing," so authorities weren't able to identify the body until December 2023, per a Sept. 3, 2024 Troup County Sheriff's Office news release shared on Facebook. According to local media outlets Fox 5 Atlanta, 11Alive and ABC and NBC-affiliate WALB News, Alston was Thompson's girlfriend. The news release confirmed that Thompson had been arrested on Aug. 19, 2024. At the time, Thompson had just been charged with concealing the death of Alston and police said the victim's killer was yet to be determined. Fulton County Sheriff's Office Nicole Alston Nicole Alston "On the morning of December 6, 2007, deputies with the Troup County Sheriffs Office were dispatched to the corner of Whitfield Road and Stitcher Road regarding a suspicious black bag that appeared to be burning," the release read. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "When they arrived on scene they discovered what appeared to be human remains that had been dumped at the location and a bag was smoldering," the release added, confirming that in early 2023, the case, along with DNA, was then sent to two laboratories "for DNA analysis and genetic genealogy forensics." Troup County Sheriffs Office Angel Marie Thompson Angel Marie Thompson "Those results were then sent to the GBI crime lab for comparison. On December 13, 2023 our office received word that a positive DNA match was made and the identity was that of Nicole Alston whose last known residence was Manhattan, New York and she was 24 years of age at that time," the post stated. The sheriff's office previously added, "The investigation continued and through contact with her family it was learned that Nicole Alston had left New York with her friend Angel Marie Thompson to live in Atlanta. At that time Thompson was wanted in New York for theft and identity fraud. The family last heard from Nicole around Thanksgiving of 2007." Fulton County Sheriff's Office Angel Marie Thompson Angel Marie Thompson Troup County investigator Clay Bryant then determined in August 2024 that "Thompson began identifying herself as Alston and was collecting Alstons SSI Benefits, Food Stamp Allotment, acquiring Section 8 Housing all as Nicole Alston for a period of 8 years," per allegations in the release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In 2015 Social Security Administration contacted Alston / Thompson to come in to requalify for benefits at which time Thompson reassumes her original identity. The estimated value of the fraud amount is approximately $200,000," the September release noted. According to Thompson's arrest warrant, the suspect is accused of killing Alston by "homicidal violence by undetermined means," according to Fox 5 Atlanta. The documents stated the cause of death was by "causing violence to [the victim's] throat or head." The warrant also noted that investigators believe the suspect killed Alston because she wanted to return to New York, but Thompson couldn't due to her outstanding warrants, Fox 5 Atlanta reported. "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 read, per the outlet. 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. During a press conference with authorities regarding the recent news of Thompson's murder charge, investigator Bryant said of the family, "They deserve some finality. They deserve the truth, and we were just lucky enough to be able to find some facts that led us to the truth [about] what happened to Nicole." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The officer said it took a "true sociopath" to murder somebody in such a way. Authorities added that the night the victim's body was found, the suspect was back on dating websites looking for new people to communicate with, per a clip of the conference that was shared by Atlanta News First. Thompson was then allegedly trying to rent out the apartment they shared, as well as attempting to sell their car, just a month after Alston's death, officials added. The victim's mother, Sylvia Austin, insisted during the conference that she "never stopped looking" for her daughter after she hadn't heard from her for years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "She didn't deserve this, and I wish I'd never let her come to Georgia," Sylvia told reporters, describing the victim as "bubbly" with an "infectious" smile. "She was the life of the party. She was happy, and through all her trials and struggles, she always made everything seem okay. She was always the one people call on to talk to," she added of her daughter. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis told reporters that her office plans to also charge Thompson with human trafficking offenses, adding that an indictment can be expected at the end of October. Thompson remains in custody at the Fulton County Jail without bond, per Fox 5 Atlanta. The Troup County Sheriff's Office and Sandy Springs Police did not immediately respond when contacted by PEOPLE for additional information. Read the original article on People Amid the Trump administration's sweeping crackdown on crime in the nation's capital, a woman was shot to death in broad daylight in northeast Washington, D.C.an area most locals consider safe. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers found a woman who was shot multiple times just after 11 a.m. Wednesday on the 3300 block of 15th Street. D.C. Fire and EMS took the unconscious woman to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead. Homicide detectives are investigating, though no suspects have been identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement President Donald Trump on Monday federalized the MPD under section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows the president to take emergency control of the police force for 30 days. Fbi Director Kash Patel Backs Trump's Dc Police Takeover: 'When You Let Good Cops Be Cops, They Deliver' Within hours of the announcement, a man was gunned down in D.C.'s Logan Circle neighborhood, according to a report from local affiliate FOX 5 D.C. Read On The Fox News App The victim, Tymark Wells, 33, was shot multiple times and pronounced dead shortly after the attack, according to the report. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump's Plan To Deploy National Guard In Dc Sparks Backlash From Residentsbut Some Welcome It Hundreds of National Guard members have been deployed to the city, joining agents from federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Capitol Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). While D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser noted violent crime in the capital is at its lowest level in 30 years, city records show violent crime, including robberies and homicides, skyrocketed post-pandemic. Certain neighborhoods were highlighted as particular concerns, with violent gun crimes from 2022 to 2023 rising by 460% downtown, 240% in Golden Triangle, and 216% in Brightwood, according to D.C. records. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Homicides rose 500% in the Southwest/Waterfront and H Street neighborhoods, 400% in Greenway, and 233% in Cardoza/Shaw, records show. Trump said he may later declare a national emergency to extend the crime sweep if Congress does not get on board. "You can't have 30 days," he said during a news conference at the Kennedy Center. "We're going to do this very quickly, but we're going to want extensions. I don't want to call a national emergency, but if I have to, I will." Fox News Digital's Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report. Original article source: Woman gunned down in 'safe' DC neighborhood as Trump launches federal police takeover Charges are allegations only. All arrested persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (ABC4) A woman is facing felony charges after she allegedly struck an officer in the face and grabbed his conducted energy device (CED) while resisting arrest. Lindsey Barbour-Miller, 35, has been charged with disarming an officers energy device, assault against a peace officer, interfering with a peace officer, and use or possession of drug paraphernalia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to court documents, the West Valley City Police Department (WVCPD) was contacted regarding a woman trespassing in a backyard. When officers arrived at the residence, they allegedly located Barbour-Miller with a pipe in her hand. When Barbour-Miller realized she was speaking with a police officer, she stated, Let me set my pipe down, and put what the officer described as a bulbous pipe with burnt residue into her purse. The officer ordered Barbour-Miller to put her hands behind her back and grabbed her arm to begin arresting the woman. Suspect allegedly defrauds Larry H. Miller dealership, attempts to evade police using fake diplomatic license plates Youre not gonna f arrest me, b, Barbour-Miller allegedly stated to the officer while pulling her arms away from him. The woman struggled against the officer and struck him in the face with the hand that was holding her cell phone, documents say. Due to this hit, the officer sustained an abrasion under his eye and a laceration on the bridge of his nose. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After hitting the officer in the face, Barbour-Miller grabbed the officers CED (often known by its brand name, Taser) and unbuckled the holster, but was unable to pull the CED out. After this, Barbour-Miller was detained and arrested. According to court documents, after he arrested her, Barbour-Miller reportedly apologized to the officer for hitting his face. She also allegedly admitted several times to assaulting the officer and having a pipe in her possession. Barbour-Miller was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail, where she is currently being held with bail. Latest headlines: Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. MURFREESBORO, Ark. (AP) A New York woman has unearthed a 2-carat white diamond at an Arkansas state park, a gem she says will be used in her engagement ring. Micherre Fox of Manhattan spent several weeks at the state park in July after deciding to forage for a diamond, according to a news release from Waymon Cox, an assistant superintendent at Crater of Diamonds State Park. The 31-year-old woman searched for diamonds during much of July in a 37-acre field that is part of the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic crater. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It wasnt until her last day at the park, while walking, that she spotted something glistening at her feet. Park staff confirmed that the sparkly gem about the size of a persons canine tooth was a 2.3-carat diamond. I got on my knees and cried, then started laughing," Fox said in the statement. Its the third-largest diamond of more than 350 diamonds found at the park this year. The park is open to the public and adults can engage in gem hunting by paying $15 per day. Park staff plows the field periodically to loosen the soil and make diamond hunting easier. Park visitors have found and kept more than 35,000 diamonds since the Crater of Diamonds became an Arkansas state park in 1972, according to park officials. The largest diamond ever discovered in the United States was unearthed there in 1924 during an early mining operation, park officials said. Known as Uncle Sam, the white diamond with a pink cast weighed 40.23 carats and was later cut into a 12.42-carat emerald shape. It's part of the Smithsonians mineral and gem collection and can be seen at the National Museum of Natural History. A woman shot dead by police in the parking lot of an Ocoee shopping plaza on Sunday drove into officers in an attempt to flee, surveillance video presented to reporters on Thursday shows. Ocoee police Chief Vincent Ogburn said two officers were searching for the vehicle, a silver BMW SUV that had been reported stolen, and found it in a parking spot in front of a Publix store on Ocoee Apopka Road and West Road. At that same time, Stacie Guerrero, the driver, was returning to the car as a store employee who allegedly caught her stealing merchandise followed her. Footage shared by Ogburn showed Guerrero speaking with officers before trying to back out of her parking spot as they moved to get her out of the BMW. The SUV then lurched forward toward the officers, one of whom opened fire. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guerrero was then taken to a hospital with a gunshot wound and later died. The two officers were placed on paid administrative leave while the Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigates the shooting. We understand that the loss of life is tragic, and we take this incident very seriously, Ogburn said. We ask the community for their patience as this investigation is ongoing. Guerreros passenger was arrested at the scene and charged with felony retail theft as she was also allegedly caught stealing from the Publix. According to an arrest affidavit, the two women took separate carts as they went throughout the store picking out items. The other woman, Ogburn said, did not return to the BMW until after the shooting. No other injuries were reported. The public was not in danger, Ogburn said. No one else was in danger in that incident. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) A woman died in the hospital after she was shot in D.C. on Wednesday morning, police said. It was around 11 a.m. on Aug. 13, when dispatch got the call for a reported shooting. Officers responded to the 3300 block of 15th Street, Northeast. There, first responders located a woman with gunshot wounds who was breathing but unconscious. Police initially reported that her wounds were not considered life-threatening. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement However, after being taken to the hospital, the woman was pronounced dead when all life-saving efforts failed. D.C. police identified the woman as 36-year-old Mignon Brown-Massey, of Northeast, D.C. PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Woman shot in Northeast DC: MPD investigating As of Thursday morning, no arrests have been made in connection with the deadly shooting. The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for each homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at 202-727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the departments TEXT TIP LINE by sending a text message to 50411. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) A Nebraska woman is suing the city of Sioux Falls and the Sioux Falls Police Department. Third suspect in custody for Lower Brule double homicide Shelia Risseeuw claims two officers were negligent when they tried to stop a stolen car during the summer of 2023. The civil lawsuit claims the driver of the stolen car was going up to 75 mph on Cliff Avenue before running a red light at 10th Street. Thats where it crashed into Risseeuws car while police were chasing the driver. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the lawsuit, she suffered severe injuries, which led to permanent impairment and disability. The man who was driving the stolen car is now in prison. Chad Martin, Jr. is serving time for vehicular battery and eluding police. The lawsuit was filed this week in federal court. It does not specify how much money she is asking for, only that its more than $75,000. KELOLAND News reached out to SFPD for any comment on the lawsuit. They said they do not comment on pending litigation. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com. NEED TO KNOW Stephanie Diane Dowells, 62, was killed in November 2024, during an overnight family visit with her husband, David Brinson Brinson was convicted in the 1990s of murdering four men during a robbery, and sentenced to four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole Dowells was the second person in a year to die during a family visit at Mule Creek State Prison in four months The wife of a California man serving life in prison for four murders died during an overnight visit with him last year and now her husband is charged with killing her. David Brinson, 55, was charged with murder on Aug. 13, in connection with the November 2024 strangulation of Stephanie Diane Dowells, 62, Amador County District Attorney Todd Riebe tells PEOPLE. Stephanie Dowells/Instagram On Nov. 13, 2024, shortly after 2 a.m., Brinson called prison officials and told them that his wife had passed out, prompting officers to begin life-saving measures and call 911, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dowells could not be saved and was pronounced dead at 2:51 a.m. Her death was ruled a homicide by strangulation. Dowells, a hairdresser, lived in Inglewood, Calif., with her son, his wife and her young grandson. Brinson was convicted in 1993 of murdering four men during a robbery, and was sentenced to four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. Reached Thursday, Dowells' family declined to comment through her daughter-in-law and referred PEOPLE to their attorney, who did not immediately return a request for comment. Brinson has not yet entered a plea to the murder charge he is set to be arraigned on Sept. 19, Riebe said. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Dowells was the second person within months to die at Mule Creek State Prison during a family visit, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Tania Thomas, 47, was killed in July 2024 while she was visiting her husband, Anthony Curry, at the Northern California lockup. Curry was charged with murder in connection with her death; he pleaded not guilty. Curry is serving a life sentence for attempted second-degree murder, plus 13 years for carjacking, a Department of Corrections spokesperson said. Riebe has said the killings of Dowells and Thomas are the first violent acts during family visits at Mule Creek that he has seen in his more than 25 years as district attorney. Read the original article on People NEED TO KNOW A woman has won the 2025 Florida Python Challenge's grand prize after removing 60 invasive snakes from the Everglades Taylor Stanberry came out victorious after competing with 934 participants from 30 states and Canada to see who could remove the most snakes from the Florida Everglades in 10 days "The record number of invasive pythons removed from the Everglades during this year's competition is a big win for native wildlife," FWC chairman Rodney Barreto said in a statement A woman who removed 60 invasive pythons from South Florida in just 10 days is now $10,000 richer. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced the winner of its annual Florida Python Challenge on Wednesday, Aug. 13, after the event removed a record 294 invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the FWC, 934 participants from 30 states and Canada took part in the challenge this year. During the event, hunters attempted to remove the most pythons from the Florida Everglades in a 10-day period, which began on July 11. https://people-app.onelink.me/HNIa/kz7l4cuf Taylor Stanberry/Instagram Taylor Stanberry Taylor Stanberry The grand-prize winner of this year's challenge a state effort to decrease the number of Burmese pythons in the Everglades and minimize the reptile's threat to native wildlife was Taylor Stanberry. According to her Instagram, she's a "venomous keeper" and "relocator" who has already been dubbed the "new queen of the Everglades." "The record number of invasive pythons removed from the Everglades during this year's competition is a big win for native wildlife," FWC chairman Rodney Barreto said in a statement. "With over 1,400 pythons removed during all Florida Python Challenge events to date and over 16,000 pythons removed by FWC and South Florida Water Management District contractors since 2017, collective efforts are the key to continuing to address the threats Burmese pythons pose to Florida's native wildlife and ecosystems." 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. Pedro Ramos, superintendent of Everglades National Park, added that the challenge and record participation highlighted the "importance of citizen engagement as we tackle one of the toughest conservation challenges of our time, invasive exotic species of animals and plants." Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Taylor Stanberry, winner of the FWC's 2025 Florida Python Challenge grand prize, poses with a check Taylor Stanberry, winner of the FWC's 2025 Florida Python Challenge grand prize, poses with a check Other winners this year include hunters who caught dozens of pythons, and a prize for the "longest" snake captured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to CBS News, the reptiles are native to Asia and likely entered the wild as a result of the exotic pet trade. Per the FWC, Burmese python females lay between 50 and 100 eggs at a time, which facilitates the rapid spread of the snakes. Since 2000, over 23,000 pythons have been captured and removed from the Everglades. To even take part in the challenge, participants were required to pass an online training, per the event's website, and had to kill the pythons humanely. The challenge did not permit the use of firearms, dogs, or other animals. "We could not have done this without the continued support and much-appreciated collaboration with our partners at the South Florida Water Management District and the National Park Service," Roger Young, FWC executive director, said in a statement. "This year's significant addition of Everglades National Park as one of our official Python Challenge competition locations provided an exciting new opportunity for competitors while helping to boost public awareness about invasive Burmese pythons and how people can help." Read the original article on People In this photo illustration, packages of Mifepristone tablets are displayed at a family planning clinic. (Photo illustration by Anna Moneymaker/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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org. SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 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 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. On at least the water-related front, the drinking kind, residents in the City of Waukesha have nothing to worry about in fact, they may be better off. Dampened by the deluge like everyone else in southeast Wisconsin on Aug. 9-10, the city hasn't had to deal with concerns about the city's Lake Michigan water supply, leaving the monitoring and inbound quality control to Milwaukee Water Works. Completed in 2023, the $286 million system is functioning normally, with no alerts despite regional flooding, the Waukesha Water Utility reported Aug. 13 in an interview with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Our incoming water from the City of Milwaukee is fine and meets all of the standards that we're expecting, and that the (state) DNR and (federal) EPA enforce," said Kelly Zylstra, the Waukesha utility's operations manager. Waukesha's booster pumping station on East Broadway in Waukesha on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024. The site is used as part of the diversion of Lake Michigan water to the city of Waukesha. If there was a problem with the lake water itself, Milwaukee would treat it and keep Waukesha informed of any potential problems either in a phone call, if it was urgent, or an email if it wasn't. Either way, Waukesha isn't on the front end of the concern. "We get only treated water," Zylstra added. So far, Milwaukee is managing the supply system with no necessary notifications. And, fortunately, Waukesha Water Utility officials haven't had to field any calls from residents concerned about the lake water supply, though Zylstra acknowledged rumors sometimes spread faster than the city can address them. The irony is that Waukesha's water customers have less to worry about than three years ago, aided in part by the utility's current booster pump station on East Broadway. "Our new booster pump station is in an area not prone to flooding, and that's always good," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Plus, some key elements of the now idled groundwater system were close to the Fox River, a potential problem in theory though Zylstra said those sites did not flood this week. Regardless, the new system is easier to maintain because of its inherent design. "All our stuff is centralized, and that makes our response time to any kind of potential problem faster, because we can get to the location where all the water is coming in from Milwaukee and expedite any fix that we might have to do," she said. Milwaukee's water utility provides water service to 16 communities in the area. Waukesha's 36-mile system, a pipeline from the Milwaukee source and a return-flow system using pipelines to the Root River, became the latest after years of planning as the solution to eliminating radium-tainted drinking water, as required under federal standards. Contact reporter Jim Riccioli at james.riccioli@jrn.com. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Waukesha Water Utility sees no concerns from Aug. 9-10 rain and floods WRIGHTSTOWN, Wis. (WFRV) The Wrightstown Community School District has named its Interim Superintendent for the upcoming school year after months of turmoil surrounding the position. Ron Saari had been suspended shortly after he took over the role from his predecessor, Andy Space, who handed in his resignation in December. The newly appointed Interim Superintendent, James Smasal, was announced on Wednesday. The Board of Education plans to approve the appointment at a meeting on August 20. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Former Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy taking new role with University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Athletics According to the release, the Board had 10 candidates before narrowing to a couple of finalists. The following statement was released as well. Mr. Smasal brings to WCSD a strong background in district operations, a proven record of leadership, and a contagious enthusiasm for public education. Known for his passion for students, staff, and the community, Mr. Smasal is a vibrant leader who approaches his work with heart, humor, and energy. In fact, those who have worked with him in the past note its not uncommon to hear him singing through the school hallways a testament to the positive spirit he brings to his role. The Board is confident that Mr. Smasal will provide steady, student-centered leadership during this transitional year and serve as a bridge to the districts next chapter. The Board plans to approve his appointment at the August 20, 2025, board meeting. Rayn Warner, Wrightstown Community School District Board of Education President The search for a permanent Superintendent will commence later in 2025 or early in 2026. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. MORGANATOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) All drivers who park in lots at West Virginia University will need to comply with new parking guidelines or risk being ticketed. WVU is implementing a new License Plate Recognition technology with cameras that read license plates to ensure that the vehicle is allowed to or has paid to park there, according to a recent press release. With the change, all vehicles need to be accurately registered in the WVU Parking Portal and parked where the patrol vehicle cameras can read their license plate. This means that vehicles that dont have front license plates, including those with West Virginia plates, will not be able to back into parking spaces or pull through. The release said that the change is effective immediately, but ticketing for parking incorrectly or having an obstructed plate will begin on Sept. 2. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For short-term parking, drivers will no longer pay by the space number at pay stations or on the ParkMobile app. Instead, drivers will now enter their license plate number. Former WVU basketball player hosts backpack giveaway event For vehicles with parking permits, the permit still needs to be appropriately displayed, the release said. The addition of LPR technology will aid in the efficiency of parking enforcement efforts, the release said. Anyone with questions can contact the WVU Parking Management Office at 304-293-5502. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) As they say, country roads always bring you home, and those roads brought hundreds of students back into Morgantown early Thursday morning. Students are already returning to classrooms across the state, and its no different for students at West Virginia University, who officially start classes on campus on Aug. 20. From Thursday to Saturday, WVU will be moving in more than 4,000 students into their new home among the hills for this upcoming academic year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement 12 News spoke with WVUs Executive Director of Strategic Communications, Shauna Johnson, about what Move-in Day means to the campus community. WVU now ticketing parking with license plate camera Incoming West Virginia University students move into their new homes at Boreman Hall (WBOY Photo) This really marks the start of a whole new academic year with all kinds of possibilities. We have so much momentum right now at West Virginia University with our new president, Michael T Benson, whos out and about and wants to meet everyone, Johnson said. We have all kinds of new activities for our students to try out. Weve worked to make sure that were really connecting with them. Weve heard from our students that they want to make friends. They want to feel like theyre part of something larger than themselves, and so thats something that weve built into, and were ready to get started with the new semester with that in mind. Johnson said that this years incoming class is the largest it has been in the last several years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, our first-year class is more than 4500, which is up a little bit. Were very, very excited about that, Johnson said. Welcome Week festivities continue over the weekend, with the annual FallFest taking place on Monday evening. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBOY.com. CHEYENNE The Wyoming Legislature is considering a bill that librarians from across the state say will eliminate young adult and teenage sections from public libraries, calling it unnecessary and harmful to the states youth. Additionally, they say it could bring an end to some local libraries if they are not in compliance and rack up the associated $50,000 fines for violation of the bill, if passed into law. The bill draft outlines rules that would prohibit public and school libraries from housing literature deemed as sexually explicit in childrens sections, which includes teenage and young adult sections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As written, this could include texts like educational material about puberty and sex, historical accounts like Anne Franks diary, and sacred texts like the Bible, the Quran and the Book of Mormon. On Tuesday, the Wyoming Legislatures Joint Judiciary Committee discussed the bill draft in Casper. The room was filled with concerned librarians and educators from every corner of the state, and a separate room was opened for overflow attendees to view the meeting. Public comment on the issue lasted several hours, and the committee ultimately tabled the bill to continue discussions at its next meeting in October in Cheyenne. One of the attendees who offered public comment was Lindsey Travis, the president of the Wyoming Library Association. She said the bill could lead to libraries opting to gut young adult sections out of fear of financial ruin. For each violation, libraries would be charged $50,000 as the bill is currently written. Lindsey Travis Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lindsey Travis Travis added that this could result in children now wandering adult sections of the library to find literature that is suitable for their age, which would counter the intent of the bill. She estimated that it would take around 90,000 hours, more than 10 years, to review the 10,000 books in the teen section of the Sweetwater County Library, of which she is the president. Sen. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne, who is the chair of the committee, suggested potentially using artificial intelligence to review this material. The attendees scoffed at this suggestion, and Travis said she would not trust the technology if it meant risking $50,000 fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sen. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne (2025) Sen. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne Travis urged the committee to form a working group composed of public and school library professionals to continue discussions on this topic. Michelle Humber, executive director of Sublette County Libraries, also opposed the bill, calling it unnecessary and harmful. She said that libraries are a safe place for teenagers to recreate and discourages them from participating in potentially unsafe activities. The unintended consequences of this bill, Humber said, would be that it would remove the valuable intergenerational aspect of libraries, if libraries opt to remove young adult sections in fear of fines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She referenced Idaho, where similar legislation led to libraries enforcing a requirement that doesn't let anyone under 18 enter libraries without a parent or guardian due to the risk of financial harm. It puts the libraries in a really difficult situation, kind of between a rock and a hard place, Huber said. Christopher Mullen, a trustee on the Natrona County Library Board, asked the committee to kill the bill. He said his library system in Casper, and others across the state, are already pinching pennies to keep their doors open. The punitive language within the bill opens the doors for conjecture, interpretation and litigation that will fall on counties to defend, he said. As trustees, it is our responsibility to be the final decision-makers on what should be part of the collection and what should be removed. Local control will ultimately do a better job at managing this sensitive issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rev. Dan Odell is a senior minister at First United Methodist Church in Casper, which is directly across the street from the Natrona County Library. He said this bill is a veiled attempt to bankrupt libraries across the state and restricts youth from accessing faith-based literature. Odell cited the Bible, which describes Lots daughters having sex with him to preserve the family line, descriptions of genitalia and sexual acts, and several other similar instances throughout the text. I mentioned these not for the sake of sensationalism, but because they're a part of larger passages that reflect spiritual and moral truths, he said. Rep. Marlene Brady, R-Green River, a member of the committee, said she took offense at Odells use of the Bible to support the existence of other sexually explicit material found in a library. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Marlene Brady, R-Green River (2025) Rep. Marlene Brady, R-Green River The Bible is the creator's message to the beauty of the relationship between a marriage, a man and a woman. There's nothing wrong with that, in my opinion, she said. More than a dozen attendees offered public comment Tuesday. Of those, only two offered words of support for the bill draft: Jenifer Hopkins and Mary Schmidt, both elected members of the Natrona County school board. Schmidt argued that this bill protects the mental health of children in Wyoming by shielding them from explicit material. Hopkins said the legislation establishes a clear and consistent framework going forward. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is about age-appropriate placement, Hopkins said. Parents are the primary stakeholders in their children's upbringing. This bill upholds their right to know and to have a say about what is placed in sections intended for minors. It's also ensuring that graphic sexual content is not presented to children without parental awareness. Thea True-Wells, also an elected member of the Natrona County school board, opposed the bill draft. She questioned why this is something the elected officials are considering as a way to protect youth. She referenced a pedophile who was recently sentenced in Natrona County and fined $44,500. Per book, you are going to charge more than someone who actually did significant harm to kids. I highly recommend that you relook and think about the perspective on risk. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Librarians are not a risk. Pedophiles are a risk, she said. As the committee tabled the bill draft, the legislators did not discuss it. It is unclear whether it will be approved and brought to the Wyoming Legislature in February for consideration in its current form, with proposed amendments or if the committee will create a work group to address the issue. Rep. Ann Lucas, R-Cheyenne, spoke before the meeting opened to public comment. She said she believes the $50,000 fine is too high for a first offense and the committee should consider amending to have a fine of up to that number. Rep. Ann Lucas, R-Cheyenne (2025) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rep. Ann Lucas, R-Cheyenne She added that it is important to remember that even though a child could be considered a young adult by the library, they are still legally a child and should be protected from the sexually explicit material discussed in the meeting. State Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, attends an election objections hearing on June 21, 2024, in Topeka. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector) This is the highest level of hypocrisy and apparently it knows no bounds, bellowed Kansas GOP executive director Rob Fillion this week after a confrontation between current and former Hutchinson representatives at a state fair fundraiser. So lets talk about hypocrisy, then. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement State Rep. Kyler Sweely, R-Hutchinson, accused former state Rep. Jason Probst, a Democrat from Hutchinson, of making homophobic remarks while he reeked of alcohol. Probst told Kansas Reflector senior reporter Tim Carpenter that the younger man was exaggerating. Im not sure what to make of these dueling accounts, but I sure dont recall Kansas Republicans being concerned about homophobia before. How anti-gay are they? State law makes same-sex intimacy a crime punishable by prison time. The restriction cant be enforced thanks to a Supreme Court ruling, but GOP lawmakers left it on the books. During this years session, they imposed a budget proviso banning preferred pronouns in state employee signature blocks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Republicans first bill of 2025 targeted transgender youths at their most vulnerable, forbidding them from accessing gender-affirming care. Back in 2024, they voted down a bill that would have recognized same-sex marriage in same statutes. Earlier that year, the proposed GOP platform called for restricting marriage to men and women. They even passed a bill that defined any depiction of same-sex couples as pornography, in case you wondered how far they might go. Even today, Republican House Speaker Dan Hawkins website says the state must defend the unborn and protect traditional marriage. For those keeping track, Hawkins, R-Wichita, serves as Sweelys boss in the House of Representatives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Now, I can condemn homophobia with the best of them. Ive been out of the closet as a gay man for longer than Sweely has been alive. Harassing or catcalling someone for their perceived or actual sexual orientation has no place in society, polite or otherwise. But lets take a step back for some perspective here. Kansas Republicans have outright bullied transgender people and refused to pay proper respect to other members of the LBGTQ+ community. You dont get to vote for stripping rights away from people and then act insulted by homophobic comments. The actual, concrete actions of Kansas GOP members have done far more real, lasting damage to gay (and straight) people than any epithets. Trust me, we old gays have appallingly long memories. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But lest you think Im carrying water for any single party, I dont give Probst a pass either. Last year, he wrote a couple of lengthy posts on his Substack blog taking issue with a column of mine about an anti-pornography bill. I had not mentioned him by name or singled him out among Kansas House members. Probst was not pleased with the piece, criticizing its premise and my past work. Whats more, his prickly initial response used problematic language. He referred to me as hysterical a gender-coded word used wielded against women and minimized the fact that I had actually spoken with a lawyer. In essence, I was being asked to step aside for the enlightened opinion of a straight white man, and his response irked me at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It irks me still, because (see above) we old gays have appallingly long memories. I dont know what went down between Probst and Sweely. The former lawmakers statement to Carpenter doesnt quite include a denial: If his feelings get hurt so easily, perhaps public service isnt for him. He is grossly exaggerating the exchange, which isnt surprising coming from someone who cant even be honest about something as simple as his address. Republicans have made no secret of their contempt for Probst, either, joking on the House floor about blowing him away with a tank. No one apologized for that exchange between Sweely and former Rep. Patrick Penn, R-Wichita. Feelings are bad, then, and likely to remain so. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At the very least, Kansas Republicans should take a step back and wonder about whether their plaintive claims of discrimination really land. A lot of mud has been spread around by a lot of people, and no one looks especially clean right now. Clay Wirestone is Kansas Reflector opinion editor. Through its opinion section, Kansas Reflector works to amplify the voices of people who are affected by public policies or excluded from public debate. Find information, including how to submit your own commentary, here. The video at the top of this article is from ABC22/FOX44s previous coverage of the implementation of these bans. ALBANY, N.Y. (ABC22/FOX44) New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Thursday announced a new website for parents and students to look up their own school districts policy on cell phone use after restrictions passed earlier this year. She says that about 96 percent of the about 1,090 districts and schools covered by the law have already turned in their policies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement School cellphone ban: New details for New Yorks students, parents The website link can be found at the bottom of this article, but it isnt always straightforward to find district policies from the link, so some are included here. Saranac CSD will require devices to be silenced, in students own backpacks or lockers, and middle school students will only have the option of their lockers. Ausable Valley CSD will require devices to be fully off and put away without further specification. Elementary school students will not be allowed to bring their devices to school. Beekmantown CSD will require devices to be fully off and in lockers, or in cubbies or backpacks for elementary school students. Peru CSD will require devices to be fully off and kept in a zippered pouch in a cubby, locker, or backpack. At Lake Placid CSD, devices will need to be silenced and kept in lockers for the duration of the day. The school district also notes that it considers cellphones electronic backpacks that are subject to search. To find your own school districts policy, look at ny.gov/phonefree and scroll down to search for your district. If your district chose to link to a general page of all policies, the relevant one may be numbered 5695 and titled Student Device Policy, Students and Personal Electronic Devices, or similar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Teens with addictive phone use more likely to be suicidal: Study Important points where some school policies differ include: whether devices must be fully off or just silenced, where they must be stored, and whether elementary school students are allowed to bring them to school at all. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC22 & FOX44. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is a favorite punching bag of both the left and right. Over the course of the 2010s, he became an important funder of liberal causes, which earned him the perpetual ire of Republicanseven as Facebook itself remained a vital source of web traffic for right-of-center news sites. Then, in 2016, Donald Trump got elected president, and progressives eventually landed on It's Facebook's fault as their preferred explanation for how this could have happened. It became commonplace to see mainstream headlines explicitly blaming Zuckerberg for allowing his social media site to platform and advertise Republican messaging. (Eight years prior, when Barack Obama successfully used Facebook to reach votersincluding by hiring Facebook co-founder Chris Hughes to do digital outreach for the campaignno one in the media had any problem with this. After it became apparent that non-Democrats could use Facebook, too, Hughes suddenly started advocating a breakup of the company.) When Democrats seized upon the (now thoroughly debunked) notion that Russian ads and bots on Facebook had swung the election to Trump, the anti-Facebook fever pitch reached its apex. Meanwhile, Zuckerberg had not exactly endeared himself to Republicans: Developments in 2020 and 2021 further enraged the right, as the Hunter Biden laptop story and COVID-19 pandemic produced moderation decisions that conservatives correctly despised. This was the moment of greatest danger for Zuckerberg: Principled libertarian defenders of free markets were in retreat, and rising populism on both the left and right had threatened to make antitrust a reality for Facebook. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Then, a few things happened that ultimately benefitted Zuckerberg. Most importantly, Facebook and other social media sites were able to demonstrate to conservatives that their egregiously bad moderation decisions were the result of federal interference, something libertarians had long opposed. Also, Zuckerberg learned how to punch back at Democrats, and MAGA's intrinsic dislike of him softened. Under the second Trump administration, Zuckerberg enjoys an occasionally fraught but much improved relationship with the president, which is broadly characteristic of other tech leaders. (Elon Musk has a combative relationship with Trump even though he loves the man.) But the media still hates Zuck, which brings us to this week's story in The New York Times. "Zuckerberg's Compound Had Something That Violated City Code: A Private School," writes the Times. The tone of the article matches the tone of the headline: pearl-clutching moral indignation. A private schoolin violation of city code. The horror! The situation is perfectly understandable: After the pandemic hit, Mr. and Mrs. Zuckerberg decided to enroll two of their daughters in a pod-based homeschool-type hybrid thing alongside a dozen other kids. (The Zuckerbergs are obscenely rich and own a massive compound in Palo Alto, California.) They hired staff, including teachers and an overseer, and made the whole thing free for the families of the other kids. After the pandemic came to an end, they decided that they would prefer to continue educating their children in this manner. The other families seem to like the deal too. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It seems obvious, but if this arrangementa wealthy man setting up a school on his own property, paying teachers' salaries and making the whole thing free for a dozen other familiesviolates some city code, then the city code ought to be changed. Zuckerberg should have the right to use his own money to educate his children in a manner he sees fit. Yet the Times gives star billing to unspecified complaints from neighbors, who found the morning and afternoon drop-offs and pick-ups disruptive for some reason. "They suspected the house was being used as a school," notes the Times, in a moment of high drama, "and they were right." It's true that the Zuckerbergs have been at odds with some of their neighbors for years, as they have purchased property after property in an attempt to turn their compound into a mini-fiefdom. I can certainly understand complaints about constant construction noises, but it's not ideal to let change-averse townies thwart development at all costs by weaponizing various government building approval systems. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By targeting the education of their children, though, hasn't The New York Times sided with Zuckerberg's enemies on the least sympathetic grounds? You would think they would realize that. Yet it seems they are aligned with liberal reporter Emily Shugerman, who treats the Karen-ing of the Zuckerbergs as some kind of well-deserved moral crusade. absolutely stunning: at the same time Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan pulled funding from a free school for local kids, they were running a private school for their own children out of their house pic.twitter.com/k73SjnKBDU Emily Shugerman (@eshugerman) August 11, 2025 Her point above is stated as if she's caught the couple in a hypocrisy. In reality, there is nothing hypocritical about declining to continue providing money for someone else's education even as you continue you to vigorously fund your own children's education. But anyone who reads the Times and comes away deeply concerned about the quality of education for non-Zuckerbergs should consider this proposition: There is a set of public policies that would allow families more choice and control over their kids' educationschool choice reforms, which allocate public education dollars to individual students instead of schools. Under such a system, parents can take the per pupil funding that the state is spending on their child and spend the money on whatever educational option is best for them, be it a public school, a private school, homeschooling, or some hybrid of all of the above. Not every kid is going to end up lucky enough to attend preschool for free at a Palo Alto mansion. But people with a sincere interest in improving educational outcomes for children should be seeking ways of encouraging this kind of experimentation, not attacking it in the pages of The New York Times. This Week on Free Media I'm joined by a special guest, The Hill's White House columnist Niall Stanage! Regular viewers of Robby-related media products will recognize Stanage from his many appearances on Rising. As expected, we had a rousing discussion of the week's major media topics: the federalization of D.C. police, Laura Loomer's latest crusade, Pete Buttigieg disappointing the left with his views on Israel, and much more. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amber Duke will be back next week, but I'm looking forward to collaborating with Stanage more regularly, too, as Free Media expands. Onward! Worth Watching After failing for two weeks to come up with a book I really felt like reading, I returned to that familiar well: Agatha Christie. The Man in the Brown Suit is sadly lacking in the Poirot department; how I miss that fussy Belgian detective! However, I was delighted to once again run into Colonel Race, who was Hercule Poirot's accomplice in Death on the Nile and Cards on the Table. The post The New York Times Goes Full Karen on Mark Zuckerberg appeared first on Reason.com. ALBANY, New York The Empire States controversial bail law is again under the microscope just as Gov. Kathy Hochul prepares to run for reelection. The Democrats potential Republican opponent, Rep. Elise Stefanik, is preparing legislation that would prohibit state-level cashless bail laws . President Donald Trump, who deployed the National Guard to Washington and federalized the citys police department with the stated goal of combating crime in the nations capital, is in favor of the anti-bail push. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement New York City Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdanis support for defunding the police a stance hes edged away from stands to be a potent cudgel. And Republicans are eager to again make public safety a cornerstone issue next year. Its deja vu for Hochul, who was hammered by Republican Lee Zeldin over the bail issue during the 2022 election. Hochul defeated Zeldin by a relatively thin six percent margin for deep blue New York but the line of attack proved to be a drag on Democratic House candidates and helped hand control of Congress to Republicans. The governor this week called the latest attack a diversion and accused Republicans of lying to score points. Im not going to be taking off my 100 percent focus on making New Yorkers safer and more affordable, she said. They can do all they want to cause distractions, and when they tell lies, thats the presss job to call it out as well. We are not a cashless bail state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Stefanik blasted Hochul as out of touch in response. Kathy Hochul is clearly in full blown denial and political free fall about New York prohibiting cash bail for many crimes in New York including assaults because her poll numbers with independents are plummeting, her team said in a statement. While Kathy Hochul and Democrats double down on failed bail reform leading to the crime crisis, Congresswoman Stefanik will end failed far-left bail reform so we can save New York from these Communists and single party Democrat rule. The 2019 bail law approved by Hochuls predecessor Andrew Cuomo ended bail for many criminal charges, including misdemeanors and some felonies. A rise in crime and rearrests , coinciding with the pandemic, led to an outcry over the liberal criminal justice changes, which Republicans effectively leveraged in campaigns. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hochul has successfully pressed fellow Democrats to change the law with provisions expanding the criminal charges in which a person can be held and giving more discretion to judges . This year, she won alterations to the states discovery law that district attorneys wanted in order to reduce the number of dismissals in criminal cases. Hochul would also rather talk about an all-time low in New York City shootings and drop in felony crimes on subways statistics she can tout as evidence her public safety approach is working. The Legislature has made three necessary fixes to bail since 2019, many crimes are at a historic low and Elise Stefanik is disconnected from reality, said Democratic state Sen. James Skoufis, who also pointed to a recent New York Post frontpage trumpeting the sharp drop in shootings. (A Stefanik spokesperson called him clueless.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But New York Democrats are also warily watching the presidents takeover of the Washington police department and move to deploy the National Guard to the streets of the nations capital. Hochul this week also condemned the possibility that Trump, a Stefanik ally, would deploy the National Guard to New York City. If he crosses that bright line and decides that the 32,000 dedicated members of the NYPD are not doing their jobs hes going to stand there and insult our law enforcement officers I think people would be in outrage of that alone, she said. The governor approved her own limited deployment of the New York National Guard to the citys subway system. The troops do not have arrest powers, but the move was meant to reinforce the perception of safety on mass transit. Ive used them as a deterrent effect to stand there and just be a presence, Hochul said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Democrats, though, are in something of a political cul-de-sac on crime, despite the steep drops in violent offenses. Its an issue that Democrats have failed to take any serious action on, Erie County GOP Chair Michael Kracker said. The Republican Party has pledged to make the nation and the state safer. If Democrats fail to take action, Republicans will. Citing crime statistics wont be enough for New Yorkers who dont feel safe in their own neighborhoods, he added. Ask your average New Yorker if they feel safer than they have over the last few years, Kracker said. The answer is going to be a resounding no. A version of this story first appeared in New York Playbook. A new report has been published that compares the experiences of children and young people by parish. Statistics Jersey's report asked a broad range of questions covering language, ethnicity, health and whether young people aged up to 19 years saw themselves as part of their community. The report found about 30% of the island's children live in St Helier, which had the highest levels of ethnic and linguistic diversity, with 41% of children in the parish not speaking English exclusively at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report based on the Jersey Children and Young People's Survey (JCYPS) 2024 was designed to help parishes give "due regard" to children's rights when planning and delivering services. The report found St Saviour and St Helier had the highest proportion of children speaking Portuguese. St Brelade had the highest proportion of young people speaking other languages in their households which did not exclusively speak English. Figures showed the proportion of children attending fee-paying schools was lowest in St Helier (20%) and highest in St Martin (51%). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lower levels of fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced sleep duration were more commonly reported among children in St Helier, the report found. Statistics Jersey said St Brelade had the highest proportion of children meeting recommended daily physical activity levels (27%). Screen time When asked about screen time, more young people in St Helier and St Clement reported five or more hours a day, while the lowest levels of screen use were recorded in St John and St Martin. The report found volunteering by children was most common in St Ouen (53%) and least in St Helier (29%). Children in St Ouen were also found to most likely feel they had a meaningful voice in their community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Confidence in the police was also found to be highest in St Ouen (78%) and lowest in St Helier (57%). Statistics Jersey said it had found no significant parish-level differences in regular smoking, alcohol use, or drug use but a higher proportion of children in St Helier and St Saviour said they had never tried alcohol. Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk. More on this story Related internet links Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, has directed state police to open a criminal investigation into allegations that staff at a Fairfax County school arranged abortions for students without parental consent, potentially using public money. Officials at Centreville High School allegedly arranged and bankrolled abortions for girls in 2021, including a 17-year-old, without notifying their parents. School administrators may have known the staff-arranged abortions were happening, and school funding may have been used, which could include local, state and federal funds, according to reports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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," Youngkin said in a statement on Wednesday. Virginia School System Investigating Claims Staff Arranged Students' Abortions Without Parental Consent Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin has directed state police to probe claims that staff at a Fairfax County school arranged abortions for students without parental consent. "I am directing the Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation to open a full criminal investigation into the matter immediately," he added. Read On The Fox News App The school system, Fairfax County Public Schools, said an investigation was launched after it learned of the allegations at Centreville High School. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have serious questions about these allegations that must be answered," FCPS said in a previous statement to Fox News Digital. "At no time would the situation as described in these allegations from back in 2021 be acceptable in Fairfax County Public Schools." "We have taken immediate action engaging an external investigator to get the facts," the district added. "We all deserve to know exactly what happened. We will take appropriate action as necessary." Asked earlier this month about whether FCPS staff have ever arranged abortions for students, including in this case, the district told WJLA it was not aware of any instances. "Not to [our] knowledge. We have launched an immediate investigation into these concerns as soon as we were made aware," the district told the outlet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Public School Teacher Reveals Years-long Effort To Expose Alleged Student Abortion Scandal FCPS policy states that "every effort shall be made to encourage and support students suspecting pregnancy to discuss their concerns with their parents or guardians." However, it does not say FCPS employees should inform parents about those conversations. Pro-life groups have condemned the "secretly arranged" abortions for students at Centreville High School. "A Fairfax high school secretly arranged and paid for student abortionswithout telling parents," 40 Days for Life wrote on X. "This isnt 'healthcare.' Its state-funded child exploitation. Every official involved must be held accountable." Original article source: Youngkin orders investigation into claims staff at Virginia school arranged abortions without parental consent RICHMOND, Va. (DC News Now) In light of recent accusations, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin directed Virginia State Police to open a criminal investigation into allegations that a school in Fairfax County helped minors receive school-funded and facilitated abortions. According to a news release from Youngkins office, reports allege that school employees may have arranged and paid for multiple students to have abortions without the consent of their parents. The reports also claim that school administrators were aware of the allegations and that school funding may have been used. Youngkin said he was deeply concerned and called the allegations shocking in an interview with DC News Now on Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I thought it was important for us to have a criminal investigation, thats why Ive asked the State Police to get involved directly, the Bureau of Criminal Investigations, the best in the Commonwealth. Were gonna get to the bottom of this and if the allegations are true, were gonna hold people accountable, Youngkin said at an event in Sterling, Va. Virginia law requires at least one parents consent, or a judicial bypass, before a minor can receive abortion care. Loudoun County schools to continue transgender policies despite DOE warning Virginia State Police confirmed it had an open and active investigation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One teacher who spoke with DC News Now said she became aware of the alleged abortions several years ago. Centreville High School ESOL teacher Zenaida Perez said she learned about an alleged student abortion and tried to alert school officials during the 2021-2022 school year. When I heard that she received all the logistics and the support from the school social worker, I asked her, How much was it? Where was it? Give me all the information I want to know. She was only 17. Her legal guardian was unaware of whats happening here, Perez said. She said she has tried multiple times to get those answers from administrators. She shared a letter to the school principal, signed and dated three years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I couldnt believe it. I had to digest it. I told the school principal about this situation, and he didnt do anything, Perez claimed. But in reality, what he was doing was covering everything up. Fairfax County Public Schools released a statement in response, saying it plans to fully cooperate in the investigation, which the division acknowledged is looking into an alleged incident or alleged incidents that date back to 2021. We remain focused on preparations for the start of the school year with a focus on academic excellence and opportunity for each and every student in a safe and welcoming environment, the statement 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 DC News Now | DC, Virginia, Maryland News, Weather, Traffic, Sports Live. RICHMOND For the last time in his four-year term, Gov. Glenn Youngkin presented the economic outlook for the commonwealth to the General Assembly money committees. According to the governor, the forecast looks rosy. We are in a stronger financial position today because we have more money and less uncertainty than we did just six months ago, he said Thursday. Many of the things that caused some uncertainty earlier in the year have been addressed. The stock market is at an all-time high. Trade deals are getting cut. And D.C. gridlock has not materialized. But Democrats said that analysis did not sufficiently take into account federal cuts to programs like Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The state collected $572 million more than expected last fiscal year. The outperformance we saw in (fiscal year) 2025, and see again in the first month of 2026, combined with carry-over balances from 2025, creates $1.7 billion in cash cushion as we head into fiscal year 2026, Youngkin said. Nobody is saying that we will not have challenges there, said Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings. Thanks to conservative forecasting, we dont have to do much to just deliver what is the underpinning of a current budget for 2026. Some of those challenges include the cuts to SNAP and Medicaid. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A report from The Commonwealth Institute, a left-leaning economic justice research group, found that as states shift to shouldering 75% instead of 50% of the administrative cost of SNAP, Virginia would have to pay an additional $158 million over the 2027-2028 biennium. Additionally, new federal law includes a new state matching requirement for SNAP based on each states payment error rate. Virginia currently has an error rate of 11.5%, according to the Department of Social Services, which means that beginning in fiscal year 2028, it would be responsible for a 15% state match, currently totaling $270 million per year. Related Articles That expected new direct cost could go down if Virginia reduces its error rate. Youngkin issued an executive order earlier this week convening a work group to take steps to reduce errors in SNAP benefit processing at local departments of social services. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Youngkin also asserted that not a single Virginian is losing access to Medicaid, or getting kicked off the program as a result of federal cuts. Democrats on the money committees disputed the assertion. Between 2028 and 2042, UVA and VCU, the two providers (of) last resort for Medicaid patients, will see a decline in reimbursement from $499 million a year to $233 million a year, said Sen. Creigh Deeds, D-Charlottesville. Is it your position that nobodys going to lose Medicaid service because of that more than 50% cut over 14 years? Its our position that nobody will lose access to Medicaid, and that these cuts will be phased in gradually, and that hospitals are in a financial position to be able to absorb this over time, Cummings responded. When you say lost their coverage, they chose not to go perform the activity that was required to keep their coverage, he said, referencing work requirements, in response to another question. Its a choice. It was not lost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, also pushed back on that analysis. The Congressional Research Service, which is the agency America relies upon to tell us the answers to these things, says that millions of Americans are going to lose their Medicaid, he said. And I want to know why the governor thinks that the Congressional Research Service, that Congress relies on, doesnt know what theyre talking about, because apparently hes decided hes smarter than that. Youngkin said his December budget proposal, the last of his term, would take into account Medicaid and SNAP cuts. Its not clear yet if the General Assembly will convene a special session in September to discuss the impacts of federal cuts. Youngkin told reporters he didnt think it was necessary. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I believe I can present a budget in December that will address the issues at hand, he said. Whether they come back or not, thats their decision, but I have to say, I think that decision might be driven by something else other than a necessity of coming together. Kate Seltzer, 757-713-7881, kate.seltzer@virginiamedia.com Gov. Glenn Youngkin addresses the Virginia General Assembly in January 2025. (Photo by Charlotte Rene Woods/Virginia Mercury) At a joint meeting of the Virginia Senate and House appropriations committees Thursday morning, Gov. Glenn Youngkin presented his final overview of the fiscal condition of the state of Virginia. He painted a rosy picture, with revenues coming out over forecast for fiscal year 2025 and a $4.7 billion cushion in rainy day funds. Democrats, however, pushed back on the governors claim that no Virginia Medicaid enrollees would lose coverage under the new federal government requirements. Recently, Congress signed off on the reconciliation bill that includes new Medicaid work requirements for able-bodied adult enrollees. Starting in 2027, Medicaid recipients will have to work or volunteer, or be enrolled in school. Most Medicaid recipients already work, while lawmakers and hospital associations in Virginia have warned that if thousands of Medicaid recipients lose their insurance, it could have ripple effects including a strain on health care centers and passed-down costs to taxpayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For months, state Democrats have said over 322,000 Virginians could lose health insurance, based on a state-by-state breakdown from the U.S. Senates Joint Economic Committee and previous CBO estimates released as the reconciliation bill made its way through Congress. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that approximately 4.8-5 million people could lose coverage. Changes to Medicaid are not taking coverage away from anyone, and I want to say that again, not a single Virginian is losing access to Medicaid or getting kicked off the program, Youngkin said to reporters after his presentation on Tuesday. Not 40,000 Virginians, not whatever number someone else is saying on a given day, no Virginians are losing their Medicaid coverage. Secretary of Finance Stephen Cummings also said no one will lose coverage, but hospitals may face financial challenges, which he said they can absorb. Lawmakers were skeptical. Im glad that you have confidence, but a lot of folks who are relying on us, especially to provide their health care, dont feel confident, Del. Candi Mundon King, D-Prince William, stated. King cited Medicaid changes inArkansas, where 18,000 individuals lost their health care coverage when the state implemented work requirements in 2018. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cummings would not comment on whether the administration would use its multi-billion dollar rainy day fund to offset Medicaid costs. On Wednesday, Youngkin signed two executive orders to launch a Rural Health Transformation plan, leveraging federal funds to support quality health care access in rural Virginia. Virginia is expected to receive at least $500 million, potentially $1 billion, over five years for rural health care improvements through the initiative. Federal job loss impact Youngkin brought up how the state has fared amid mass federal layoffs, saying 11,200 Virginians have lost their jobs since the start of the year. That number doesnt reflect the full scope of the impact, with Cummings stating it does not include the workers that took the early buyouts and are still receiving payments until later in the year. As he has in recent months, the governor touted the 250,000 open state jobs in the commonwealth as a possible solution for unemployed workers. What we have seen is unemployment claims generally staying at a very normalized level, Youngkin said. Today, we have 250,000 open and available jobs, many of them in Northern Virginia, over 100,000 of them require a bachelors degree. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The governor did not have data to show how many of the former federal workers had made the shift over to an open state position. Virginias overall unemployment rate ticked up to 3.5% in June, which has continued an upward trend since January. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin speaks to reporters after addressing the Joint Money Committee. (Photo by Shannon Heckt/Virginia Mercury) Effort to reduce SNAP error rate The governor recently signed an executive directive aimed at localities to reduce the amount of error in doling out payments. In 2027, the state will be on the hook for some of the SNAP funding if there is an error rate above 6% The state currently pays nothing towards SNAP, with it all being federally funded. The state could pay up to 15% depending on the error rates, which would come out to about $270-million in the budget. Virginia currently has an 11.5% error rate in SNAP payments. If the state can get that number down to below 6% before 2027, then the state funds will not have to be used for the program. I firmly believe that if we can go to work with the localities and provide them with support resources, automation, we do have to change some of the rules which we can do, Youngkin said. You cant allow somebody to attest that they made this much, but they actually have to verify it real time, and I think that will bring down error rates substantially. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement SNAP is handled on the local level, not by the state. But the state is directing the localities to create incentive programs that encourage weeding out fraud, developing partnerships to help alleviate workload in these offices managing the program, and possibly implementing technology upgrades. Youngkin touts strong financial situation Cummings also reiterated the governors main message that the commonwealth is in a strong and resilient fiscal position heading into fiscal year 2026. Cummings said this is a result of Virginia collecting a significant amount of extra money, including $572 million more than expected, due to Virginians paying more in individual income tax nonwithholding revenues. The total general fund revenues grew by 6.1% from last year to $1.78-billion. Virginia has accumulated $10 billion in revenue surpluses since 2022 against original forecasts, demonstrating a consistent trend of exceeding expectations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Overall, Virginias economic output grew by 2.6% compared to the 1.5% forecast. Virginia has also given back over $8.9 billion to taxpayers through tax cuts since 2022, meaning a typical family has saved over $4,600. However, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, questioned the taxpayer data, considering most of them are military retirees. Cummings said the total is a blended figure and is not intended to mislead anyone. He said the data can be broken down by military and non-military. Youngkin will present his fiscal year 2026 amendments and the 2026-2028 biennial budget to the money committees in December. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX ST. LOUIS A group of young men and women were honored on Aug. 13 in the Baden Neighborhood of north St. Louis for their contributions to the community. The youth participated in a program led by Erion Johnson Sr. and Twyla Lee, associated with Tiny House Project STL and Bridge the Gap 314, where they learned trade skills to build tiny homes for those impacted by the May 16 tornado. Close Thanks for signing up! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News Megan Green, president of the Board of Aldermen, recognized the participants with a resolution, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. The program not only provided the youth with valuable trade skills but it also aimed to foster a sense of community involvement and responsibility. Participants were celebrated with gifts and certificates to commemorate their graduation from the program, marking a significant achievement in their personal and professional development. Individuals can support Tiny House Project STLs mission here. More information about Bridge the Gap 314 can be found on their website here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. YouTube has started using artificial intelligence (AI) to figure out when users are children pretending to be adults on the popular video-sharing platform amid pressure to protect minors from sensitive content. The new safeguard is being rolled out in the United States as Google-owned YouTube and social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are under scrutiny to shield children from content geared for grown-ups. A version of AI referred to as machine learning will be used to estimate the age of users based on a variety of factors, including the kinds of videos watched and account longevity, according to YouTube Youth director of product management James Beser. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "This technology will allow us to infer a user's age and then use that signal, regardless of the birthday in the account, to deliver our age-appropriate product experiences and protections," Beser said. "We've used this approach in other markets for some time, where it is working well." The age-estimation model enhances technology already in place to deduce user age, according to YouTube. Users will be notified if YouTube believes them to be minors, giving them the option to verify their age with a credit card, selfie, or government ID, according to the tech firm. Social media platforms are regularly accused of failing to protect the well-being of children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Australia will soon use its landmark social media laws to ban children under 16 from YouTube, a top minister said late last month, stressing a need to shield them from "predatory algorithms." Communications Minister Anika Wells said four-in-ten Australian children had reported viewing harmful content on YouTube, one of the most visited websites in the world. Australia announced last year it was drafting laws that will ban children from social media sites such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram until they turn 16. "Our position remains clear: YouTube is a video sharing platform with a library of free, high-quality content, increasingly viewed on TV screens," the company said in a statement at the time. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's not social media." On paper, the ban is one of the strictest in the world. It is due to come into effect on December 10. The legislation has been closely monitored by other countries, with many weighing whether to implement similar bans. gc-juj/jgc Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met Thursday in London with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a strong show of support on the eve of a key US-Russia summit from which Kyiv and its European allies have been excluded. Starmer greeted the Ukrainian leader with a warm hug and handshake on the steps of his Downing Street residence, only hours after Zelensky took part in a virtual call with US President Donald Trump. Trump and Vladimir Putin will meet Friday at an air base in Alaska, 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A stepped-up Russian offensive, and the fact Zelensky 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. But Starmer said Wednesday there was now a "viable" chance for a ceasefire in Ukraine after more than three years of fighting. Near the front line Thursday, Ukraine fired dozens of drones at Russia overnight into the early morning, wounding three people and sparking fires including at an oil refinery in the southern city of Volgograd. Kyiv calls the strikes fair retaliation for Moscow's daily missile and drone barrages on its own civilians. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With such high stakes, all sides were pushing hard in the hours before Friday's meeting. - Three-way meeting? - Zelensky, who has refused to surrender territory to Russia, joined the call from Berlin with Trump, as did European leaders who voiced confidence afterward that the US leader would seek a ceasefire rather than concessions by Kyiv. Trump has sent mixed messages, saying he could quickly organise 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 on Wednesday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Trump added: "If the first one goes okay, we'll have a quick second one," involving both Putin and Zelensky. Zelensky, after being berated by Trump at a February meeting in the White House, has publicly supported US diplomacy but has made clear his deep scepticism. "I have told my colleagues -- the US president and our European friends -- that Putin definitely does not want peace," Zelensky said. As the war rages on in eastern Ukraine, Zelensky was in Berlin Wednesday joining Chancellor Friedrich Merz on an online call with other European leaders, and the NATO and EU chiefs, to show a united stance against Russia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Starmer on Wednesday 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 Wednesday's meeting of European leaders. "Now we do have that chance, because of the work that the (US) president has put in," he said. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte declared: "The ball is now in Putin's court." bur-jkb/jwp/giv President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in London on Aug. 14 for talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street, just a day before a high-stakes U.S.-Russia summit in Alaska. The two leaders met after a joint call on Aug. 13 between Zelensky, U.S. President Donald Trump, and European leaders, during which the U.S. president pledged to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine in his upcoming meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Aug. 15. "A good, productive meeting with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. We continue to coordinate our positions," Zelensky said on X after the talks in London. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The pair discussed security cooperation within the coalition of the willing and possible security guarantees "if the United States succeeds in pressing Russia to stop the killings and engage in genuine, substantive diplomacy," the president noted. The agenda also included support for Ukraine's military and defense industry, investments in the Ukrainian drone production, and military support via the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program. Zelensky said he had invited the U.K. to join the PURL initiative, a NATO scheme under which several allies have already allocated $1.5 billion for purchasing U.S. weapons for Ukraine. The two leaders also discussed a 100-year partnership agreement between the two countries, which was signed in June and will be ratified by Ukraine later this month. A good, productive meeting with UK Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer. We continue to coordinate our positions. Yesterday, together with all our partners, and today in a bilateral format, we discussed expectations for the meeting in Alaska and possible prospects. We also discussed in pic.twitter.com/mcM1f2dPTd Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) August 14, 2025 "Great to see you, my friend (Volodymyr Zelensky). Britain will always stand with Ukraine," Starmer said on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky has been in close contact with European allies ahead of the summit between Trump and Putin, their first in-person meeting since Trump's return to office in January. Speaking in Berlin alongside German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Aug. 13, Zelensky said that Trump had pledged to make a ceasefire "one of his priorities" in talks with Putin. Trump described the conversation with Zelensky and the European leaders as "very friendly" and noted the possibility of a second meeting after his planned summit with Putin. According to Merz, European leaders are doing everything possible to steer the planned meeting between Trump and Putin "in the right direction." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "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. 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. Separately, French President Emmanuel Macron said that the U.S. is ready to provide security guarantees to Ukraine once peace is established, but that NATO membership is not on the table as a possible guarantee. After a later meeting of the coalition of the willing co-chaired by Macron, Starmer, and Merz, the European leaders rejected any limitations on Ukraine's military or NATO and EU aspirations as part of a peace deal. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The coalition also reaffirmed readiness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine, "including through plans by those willing to deploy a reassurance force once hostilities have ceased." 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. 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. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: As Putin, Trump debate Ukraines future borders, Donetsk Oblast residents are split on what they would accept to end the war Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived at Downing Street on Thursday 14 August, where UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met him. Source: European Pravda; Sky News Details: The leaders embraced and shook hands without answering questions from the press, and then entered Starmers residence. The meeting is being held a day before the summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where they will discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelenskyy, Starmer, and European leaders spoke with the US president on 14 August. They agreed that no decisions on Ukraine can be made without Ukraine and that a ceasefire should be the first step. Background: Zelenskyy said that Trump will call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader in Alaska. Trump also stated that if his meeting with Putin in Alaska is successful, he will arrange a second meeting that Zelenskyy will be invited to attend. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! As Donald Trump is about to meet one-on-one with Vladimir Putin on Friday, Ukraine's president has tried together with European leaders to convince his US counterpart that ending Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine cannot be discussed without Kyiv in the room. Volodymyr Zelenskyy came to Berlin on Wednesday to join German Chancellor Merz for video calls in a last-minute bid to ensure the US president understands what is at stake for Ukraine and the continent. Although Trump stated that his ultimate goal is to bring Zelenskyy and Putin to the negotiating table, this will not happen in two days' time, when the US and Russian leaders are to meet in Alaska. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's president is not scheduled to participate in the Alaska summit, nor are any European leaders. Review Wednesday's developments brought to you earlier in the day by our journalists from around Europe in the blog below: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Downing Street in London on 14 August. Source: European Pravda with reference to Sky News Details: Starmer's office has not disclosed what the two leaders will discuss. Meanwhile, Sky News emphasised that Zelenskyy's visit will take place ahead of the meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian ruler Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss a ceasefire in Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sturmer last hosted Zelenskyy in Downing Street in June. On 13 August, Zelenskyy, Starmer and other European leaders held a telephone conversation with Trump. The participants agreed that no decisions regarding Ukraine could be made without Ukrainian involvement and that the first step should be a ceasefire. Background: Media reports indicate that Trump 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 said that Trump will call him after meeting with the Kremlin leader in Alaska. Trump also stated that if his meeting with Putin in Alaska is successful, he will arrange a second meeting that Zelenskyy will be invited to attend. Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon! Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday praised President Donald Trump for his efforts to broker an end to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, as preparations continued for the Friday summit between the American and Russian leaders in Alaska. The Trump administration "is making quite an energetic and sincere effort, in my opinion, to stop hostilities, to stop the crisis and to reach an agreement that is of interest to all those involved in this conflict," Putin said during a meeting of his top officials to prepare for the Alaska summit, according to a readout published by the Kremlin. The process could "create long-term conditions of peace both between our countries and in Europe and in the world as a whole, if we reach an agreement on the area of control over strategic offensive weapons by the next stage," Putin added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Putin's remarks came after Trump on Wednesday warned of "very severe consequences" for Russia if Moscow failed to a ceasefire. 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. 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. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London on Thursday as he continued diplomatic maneuvers ahead of Friday's meeting. Zelensky's visit to London followed his trip to Berlin, Germany, where on Wednesday he met with European leaders -- and spoke virtually with Trump -- to hammer out Ukraine's key demands in any peace negotiations to end Moscow's full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Kyiv set out five key demands. Ukraine will engage in no peace talks without a prior ceasefire, Ukraine must be involved in negotiations and Ukraine will make the decision on any territorial concessions with discussions beginning from the current front lines. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kyiv has also said it needs solid security guarantees -- with U.S. involvement -- to agree to any deal, and that more sanctions and pressure should be put on Russia if the Alaska summit is unsuccessful. Zelenskyy and his European backers said that Trump agreed to the negotiating outline. MORE: Trump warns Russia of 'severe consequences' if Putin doesn't agree to stop war The president said the call with Zelenskyy was "very friendly," and suggested that a second summit may soon be possible that would bring the Ukrainian and Russian leaders together. Zelenskyy said he advised Trump and other leaders that Putin is "bluffing" in pursuing peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Putin definitely does not want peace," Zelenskyy said. "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." "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." Ben Stansall/AP - PHOTO: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the garden of 10 Downing Street in London, on Aug. 14, 2025. "The U.S. president has repeatedly said this," Zelenskyy continued. "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." Meanwhile, long-range drone and missile attacks continued overnight into Thursday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 45 drones and two missiles into the country overnight, of which 24 drones were shot down or suppressed. Twenty-one drones impacted across 12 locations, the air force said. Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces shot down 52 Ukrainian drones overnight into Thursday. Local officials in Rostov-on-Don -- the southern city close to the Ukrainian border which has become a key military headquarters and logistics hub during the invasion -- said a Ukrainian drone struck a residential building injuring at least 13 people. Ukraine's General Staff said in a post to Facebook that drones struck the Volgograd Oil Refinery Plant in southwest Russia overnight. The refinery produces fuel and other materials "which are critically important for the logistics of the armed forces of Russia," the statement said. ABC News' Patrick Reevell, Hannah Demissie, Michelle Stoddart, Joe Simonetti, Anna Sergeeva and Othon Leyva contributed to this report. President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on Friday at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss a way forward in the Russia-Ukraine war. It will be the first face-to-face sit-down between the two leaders since 2019, and perhaps the most significant since they met alone the previous year (alongside interpreters) for more than two hours in Helsinki, Finland. It will also be Putins first meeting with a U.S. president since the start of his invasion. He previously met with former President Joe Biden in June 2021. Follow along live Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fridays summit comes at what could be a pivotal point in the conflict, which escalated when Putins forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The fighting has since caused a staggering number of casualties on both sides. Trump has been trying for months to secure a deal to end the war, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was not invited to Fridays summit, and foreign-policy experts question Putins desire for peace. Expectations are low for any sort of major breakthrough. This is really a feel-out meeting, Trump said Monday. Probably in the first two minutes Ill know exactly whether or not a deal can be made. Heres everything you need to know ahead of Fridays summit in Alaska. Why is Trump meeting Putin now? Trump has a long history of praising Putin, and his relationship with Zelensky is fraught. When campaigning for reelection in 2024, Trump vowed to end the war during his first 24 hours back in office; he later paused U.S. assistance to Ukraine. As a result, experts have questioned whether Trump is positioned to broker a deal that both sides could agree to. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet in recent weeks, Trump has also expressed frustration with Putins intensifying attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilians and his seeming indifference to peace talks. When Russian missiles pounded Kyiv earlier this year, Trump accused Putin of "needlessly killing a lot of people," adding in a social media post: "He has gone absolutely CRAZY!" "I am very disappointed with President Putin," Trump told reporters on July 13, shortly before announcing a plan to send weapons to Ukraine through NATO. "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." In turn, that disappointment may have pushed the president into closer alignment with NATO allies and even Zelensky, according to Politico. On Wednesday, Trump participated in a video call with Zelensky and other European leaders and reportedly agreed to five principles for the talks with Putin. They include keeping Ukraine at the table for follow-up meetings and refusing to discuss peace terms like swaps of land between Russia and Ukraine before a ceasefire is put in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For his part, Trump has framed Fridays meeting as a preliminary step in a larger process, saying that a trilateral meeting with Putin and Zelensky could follow. First, Ill find out where we are, Trump said Wednesday. If the first [meeting] goes OK, we'll have a quick second one. I would like to do it almost immediately. At the same time, Trump insisted Putin would face severe consequences if he doesnt seem serious in Alaska about ending the war. There may be no second meeting, the president added, because I didn't get the answers that we have to have. So far, Trump has resisted imposing tariffs or further sanctions on Russia in an effort to bring Putin into negotiations. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Last month, Trump told Putin that he would have to agree to a ceasefire by Aug. 8 or face very severe tariffs and a new wave of sanctions. When that deadline passed without a ceasefire deal, Trump instead invited Putin to talk in person. According to Axios, Trump told Zelensky and other European leaders on Wednesday that his goal is to get Putin to agree to a ceasefire at Fridays meeting. Why is Putin meeting Trump now? The international community has largely isolated the Russian leader since the start of the war, with both the U.S. and Europe moving to cut off Moscows access to western markets and its fossil fuel export revenues. But sanctions have done nothing to curb Putins aggression in Ukraine. I have said many times that I consider the Russian and Ukrainian peoples to be one people. In this sense, all of Ukraine is ours, Putin told guests at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in June. We have an old rule. Wherever a Russian soldier sets foot is ours. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Analysts say that Putin sees Trump as the rare Western leader who, in his desire to make a deal, could pressure Ukraine into accepting major concessions adding that even Trumps invitation to meet on American soil (despite Putins international arrest warrant for war crimes) is likely seen by the Russian president as its own reward. Putins goal Friday, as Politico recently put it, will be 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. Trump has repeatedly signaled that he does, in fact, blame Zelensky as well as Putin, most recently on Monday. "I get along with Zelensky, but, you know, I disagree with what he's done very, very severely, disagree, the president told reporters. This is a war that should have never happened. Trump has also suggested freezing most current battle lines in place, with additional "land swaps to be agreed upon by Putin and Zelensky an idea that Zelensky has rejected, claiming it violates his countrys constitution. What does Zelensky have to say about the meeting? Zelensky has long claimed that by continuing to insist on maximalist objectives such as international recognition of seized areas of Ukraine as part of new Russia and promises that Ukraine will be forever barred from NATO Putin is deliberately making demands that he knows Ukraine cannot accept in order to convince Trump that Zelensky is the problem. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We understand the Russians intention to try to deceive America, Zelensky said in his evening address on Sunday night. We will not allow this. Zelensky has long called for a complete ceasefire as a precondition for negotiations; he has also said he would talk directly with Putin in any format. Putin has rejected both offers. In the meantime, the two sides are intensifying their efforts on the battlefield in order to bolster their negotiation positions. Russias troops recently broke through a segment of Ukraines defensive line near the city of Pokrovsk, a longtime stronghold, according to the New York Times a move that shows, in Zelenskys words, that Putin is redeploying [his] troops and forces in ways that suggest preparations for new offensive operations. Putin is not preparing for a cease-fire or an end to the war, Zelensky claimed. Similarly, Kyiv has ramped up attacks on Russian oil refineries, doubling down on its strategy of pressuring Russia by targeting the Kremlins main revenue source to fund the war, according to the Times. Mother, father and child killed by fallen tree in Tennessee heavy rains and flooding An official says a mother, father and child were killed when a tree fell on their car as heavy rain and flooding hit Tennessee Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley. The fresh newsletter for the International Community in Hungary - described by readers as a "Great read each week" - is now available for your interest and use via the link below. Beer fans across Hungary have made their choice: the official Nations Beer for 2025 is a bright, well-balanced India Pale Ale brewed by Horizont Brewing in Budapest, according to kultura.hu. The winning recipe was selected from thousands of public votes, showing both the popularity of craft beer and the growing role of consumers in shaping whats on tap. Horizont Brewing, one of Budapests best-known craft breweries, created this years beer by blending the easy-drinking clarity of a pale ale with the bold, hoppy profile typical of an IPA just as voters requested. Using Superdelic, New Zealand Cascade, and Columbus hops, the brewery describes the result as fresh, light, fruity, pleasantly bitter, and 6% ABVrefreshing without being overpowering. The annual Nations Beer initiative is organised by Beerselection, a Budapest-based craft beer shop. Each year, drinkers from across Hungary vote not just for the beer style, but also for specific flavour characteristics, before a brewery is selected to make the winning beer. This years IPA was unveiled in Budapest on 3 July 2025 and will be available nationwide on draft and in cans throughout the year, until the next Nations Beer is announced in 2026. The campaign also includes a public vote for Craft Brewery of the Year. For 2025, the title goes to Brew Your Mind, a small-batch brewery from Szekszard in southern Hungary, recognised for its creativity and consistent quality. They narrowly beat Szent Andras Brewery from Bekesszentandras in the southeast. ********************************* You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoops groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop: As an independent portal were grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here. Despite discounted crude oil imports from Russia, Indias common citizens see no relief at fuel stations. Private refiners and the government pocket the gains. Bibhav Kumar is being heard in the case of assault of Swati Maliwal in Delhi CM House. During this, Bibhav's lawyer has made a big argument. Bibhav's lawyer said, 'Swati Maliwal was asked by the security staff to wait outside but she crossed the security zone and entered inside. The security staff has also said in their statement that madam told me that 'you will make the MP wait outside'. 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) VMPL Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 14: Title Waves, Bandra, came alive on August 11 with a warm, family-and-friends gathering to celebrate the launch of The Fires We Become, the second literary thriller by Manu Dhawan, published by Rupa Publications. The evening blended heartfelt conversations with the presence of close friends, well-wishers, and family, creating an atmosphere that was personal yet deeply memorable. The event was anchored by Manu's wife, Nidhi Dhawan, who opened with a touching note on what the day meant to their family. Their daughters, Myra and Kimaya, added to the warmth, Myra sharing her reflections on her father's writing journey, and Kimaya reading her favourite line from the novel. Set against the gritty underbelly of Kolkata, The Fires We Become is a layered story of broken souls finding their way back, and identities forged in fire. Speaking about the book, acclaimed author-filmmaker Tahira Kashyap Khurrana said, "It's a rare read -- gripping yet full of heart. Manu's writing makes you pause and reflect, while pulling you deeper into the story." Reflecting on his creative process, Manu Dhawan shared, "This story has been years in the making, shaped by my fascination with the shadows we live with and the choices that change us. Launching it surrounded by the people who mean the most to me is something I will always treasure." Close friends Neeti Mohan and Raghav Sachar offered their own impressions of the novel. Neeti remarked, "Some books stay with you because they speak to something deep inside you, Manu's story is one of them." Raghav added, "It has a rhythm of its own -- dark, layered, and full of unexpected turns. It stays with you long after you've turned the last page." The unveiling of the book was a true family moment, with Manu, Nidhi, Myra, Kimaya, and the special guests gathered together in an informal, heartwarming reveal. Guests later shared conversations, laughter, and had their copies personally signed by the author. Now available in major bookstores and online, The Fires We Become marks another milestone in Manu Dhawan's literary journey, a celebration of the people, moments, and personal "fires" that shape who we become. (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) In a major step towards faster clearance of cheques, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced same-day and hourly cheque clearances in phases. According to the RBI's directive, issued on Wednesday to banks participating in the Cheque Truncation System (CTS) and the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), the new system will ensure that cheque processing, confirmation, and settlement take place in near real-time, significantly reducing delays for customers. "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," noted RBI's directives. In Phase 1, starting from October 4, there will be a single cheque presentation session between 10 am to 4 pm during which banks will scan and send cheques to the clearing house continuously. The clearing house will release cheque images to drawee banks on a rolling basis. Drawee banks will be required to process these cheques in real time and beneficiary to get credit by 7 pm the same day. Any cheque without confirmation by 7 pm will be deemed approved and included for settlement. In Phase 2, from January 3, 2026, the system will shift to a stricter timeline with "T+3 clear hours" as the item expiry time. A cheque received will need to be confirmed or denied within three hours of it being deposited in a bank. Cheques without confirmation in the stipulated time will be treated as approved for settlement. Under the revised framework, settlements will not be based on cheque presentation but on realisation. Starting from 11:00 AM each day, hourly settlements will be done based on positive confirmations and deemed approvals until the end of the confirmation session. No entries will be made for cheques returned with negative confirmation. After each settlement cycle, the clearing house will inform the presenting bank about the status of cheques. Presenting banks will then credit customers' accounts immediately, but no later than one hour after settlement, subject to standard safeguards. The RBI has directed all banks to ensure customers are well informed about the upcoming changes in the cheque clearing process. Banks have also been advised to be fully prepared to participate in continuous clearing from the respective phase start dates. With this move, the RBI aims to make cheque clearance faster, more transparent, and customer-friendly, marking a significant leap from the conventional batch-based cheque clearing system to real-time settlement efficiency. (ANI) In a major relief to its customers, ICICI Bank on Thursday announced a rollback of its recent decision to hike the minimum average monthly balance (MAB) for certain savings accounts to Rs 50,000. The private sector lender has now reduced the MAB requirement to Rs 15,000. The bank had in July revised the minimum average balance requirement for select account categories from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000. The revision, which was scheduled to come into effect from September 1, has now been substantially moderated for all categories. The bank has revised the MAB for Metro and Urban cities from earlier announced Rs 50,000 to Rs 15,000. For Semi-Urban cities it will now be Rs 7,500 instead of earlier announced Rs 25,000 and for rural areas it will be Rs 2,500 instead of Rs 10,000. For pensioners (below 60 years) and student affiliated with about 1200 select institutes MAB will be Nil. The bank will charge 6 per cent of the shortfall or Rs 500 whichever is lower, if MAB is not met. The bank will charge Rs 23 per financial transaction/cash withdrawals from ATMs post 5 transactions, however all nonfinancial transactions will remain free. If a transaction is denied at other banks ATM for insufficient balance Rs 25 will be charged for every such transaction. Penal charges for not-honouring of cheques deposited by consumers will be between Rs 50 to Rs 500. ICICI Bank has urged customers to check account category details through its website, mobile app or by visiting the nearest branch to understand the revised terms. ICICI bank is India's second-largest private sector lender by assets and serves over 35 million savings account customers across the country. (ANI) PNN Mangalore (Karnataka) [India], August 14: Mukka Proteins Limited (NSE: MUKKA | BSE: 544135), a leader in the animal protein industry has been officially empanelled as an Authorised Waste Processor by Bengaluru Solid Waste Management Limited (BSWML). Under this empanelment, the Company will manage the collection, transportation, processing, and scientific disposal strictly in accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 of 200-300 metric tonnes per day (MTPD) of wet waste, with a planned expansion to 1,000 tonnes per day (TPD). This service will cater to bulk waste generators categorised under BSWML guidelines. This milestone underscores the Company's commitment to sustainable practices, environmental responsibility, and innovation in waste processing. The initiative is expected to significantly contribute to Bengaluru's waste management infrastructure, ensuring eco-friendly and scientifically sound disposal methods by converting city waste into high-value products like insect protein as an alternate source of protein supplements for fish feed and pet food supplements and organic compost. This development follows national recognition for waste management excellence in Mangaluru, where the company's subsidiary, Ento Proteins Private Limited, operates a similar Black Soldier Fly (BSF) facility which is currently the largest unit at any municipal solid waste management site in India. The successful model in Mangaluru was recently praised by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, during his 'Mann Ki Baat' address, highlighting the effectiveness and innovation of the initiative. In alignment with its expanded operational scope, Mukka Proteins Limited has proposed amendments to its Memorandum of Association (MOA) to include the following new business objects: Expansion in Insect-Based Products: Formalizing the business of developing and marketing ingredients from insects for a wide range of applications, including animal feeds, aqua feeds, and potential medical preparations, backed by dedicated R&D to enhance production and quality. Comprehensive Waste Management Solutions: Broadening the scope of waste management activities to include sourcing and processing of various waste streams (organic, food, agri waste) and offering specialized, environmentally friendly solutions on a commercial basis. Manufacturing of Agri-Inputs and Soil Conditioners: Venturing into the manufacturing, processing, and distribution of a wide range of agricultural inputs, including organic and inorganic compost, humic and fulvic acids, bio-stimulants, and other soil conditioners to support sustainable agriculture. Leadership Commentary Commenting on this development, Mr. K. Mohammed Haris, Managing Director & CEO, Mukka Proteins Limited, said: "Securing the Bengaluru project is a landmark achievement for Mukka Proteins. It allows us to apply our proven BSF technology on a metropolitan scale, addressing critical urban waste challenges while creating a circular economy. The recent commendation from our Hon'ble Prime Minister for our work in Mangaluru validates our approach and inspires us to replicate this success. This new plant not only represents a significant business opportunity but also reinforces our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable innovation." About Mukka Proteins Limited Mukka Proteins is one of the key players in the Animal Protein industry in India and has been consistently awarded by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) for its export performance. It distributes its products within the domestic market and exports them to more than 20 countries. With its subsidiary Ento Proteins, MPL is a pioneer in using Black Soldier Fly technology to process food waste into insect meal and oil for aqua feed, animal feed, and pet food. The company is now expanding its focus to include large-scale urban waste management and a wide array of agri-business activities, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and a circular economy. Safe Harbor Any forward-looking statements about expected future events, financial and operating results of the Company are based on certain assumptions which the Company does not guarantee the fulfilment of. Past performance should not be simply extrapolated into the future. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ substantially or materially from those expressed or implied. Important developments that could affect the Company's operations include a downtrend in the industry (global or domestic or both), significant changes in the political and economic environment in India or key markets abroad, tax laws, litigation, labour relations, exchange rate fluctuations, technological changes, investment and business income, cash flow projections, interest, and other costs. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date thereof. (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) Indore (Madhya pradesh) [India], August 14: Impetus Technologies, a leading global software products and services company, has been honored as the 'Dream Employer of the Year 2025' at the prestigious Asia's Best Employer Brand Awards, hosted by the World HRD Congress. This marks the ninth consecutive year that Impetus has achieved this milestone, reaffirming its position as one of the most sought-after workplaces in the industry. The award recognizes organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to employee engagement, development, and workplace culture. Impetus has consistently set benchmarks by fostering an environment built on innovation, inclusivity, and growth opportunities, enabling employees to thrive both professionally and personally. "This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to building a workplace that values people, nurtures talent, and inspires excellence," said Sanjeev Agrawal, CHRO, Impetus Technologies. "We are proud to be acknowledged among the best in Asia, and this achievement is a testament to the dedication and passion of every member of the Impetus family." Over the years, Impetus has implemented a range of progressive initiatives, from employee well-being and skill-building programs to a culture of collaboration and inclusivity. The company continues to be a trusted partner for Fortune 100 clients across industries, driven by its people-first philosophy. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) BusinessWire India Moscow [Russia], August 14: Moscow recently hosted Positive Hack Camp, a global educational program designed for the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Over two weeks, more than 90 young specialists from 25 countries took part in intensive, hands-on training delivered by leading industry experts, with support from Russia's Ministry of Digital Development. A group of participants from India also joined the event. "Positive Hack Camp is a very important initiative that brings together young minds who can contribute to a safer digital space. As we all increase our digital activities, including banking and payments, we are also becoming more exposed to cyber vulnerabilities. This initiative will help address those vulnerabilities and create a more secure cyberspace. I am sure that the Indian participants will contribute greatly to the camp," said Vinay Kumar, Ambassador of India to The Russian Federation. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with CyberED, a project of the Cyberus Foundation dedicated to promoting result-driven cybersecurity. It covered today's most important topics: from network infrastructure scanning and social engineering techniques to web application testing and professional ethics. Beyond the intensive learning sessions, participants also experienced the vibrant culture of Russia, exploring Moscow's famous landmarks and discovering the country's rich historical heritage. "During the camp, I gained a much deeper understanding of how to approach problems in cybersecurity. The instructors not only taught tools and techniques but also shared their mindset for effective problem-solving. Personally, I particularly enjoyed the privilege escalation sessions, which gave me new perspectives to explore. This camp emphasized that cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field where you are always a student, regardless of your experience," noted Samrudh Kashyap, a participant from India. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) Domestic automobile industry saw mixed performance in July 2025, with passenger vehicle sales dipping slightly while two and three-wheelers recorded growth, according to data released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). Passenger vehicle sales stood at 3,40,772 units in July 2025, down 0.2 per cent from 3,41,510 units in the same month last year. The segment's subdued momentum contrasted with the strong performance of the three-wheeler category, which posted its highest-ever July sales at 69,403 units, up 17.5 per cent from 59,073 units in July 2024. The SIAM data also showed that within the three-wheeler category, passenger carriers rose 21.4 per cent, goods carriers increased 10.6 per cent, E-rickshaws declined by 53.3 per cent, and E-carts surged by 161.6 per cent. Two-wheelers also showed a rise, selling 15,67,267 units in July 2025, an 8.7 per cent increase compared to 14,41,694 units a year ago. Within this category, scooter sales jumped 16.2 per cent to 6,43,169 units, while motorcycle sales grew 4.7 per cent to 8,90,107 units. However, mopeds saw a 9.5 per cent drop, with sales declining from 37,563 units in July 2024 to 33,991 units this year. Commenting on the monthly performance, Rajesh Menon, director general of SIAM, said, "All vehicle segments posted stable performance in July 2025, though overall sentiments in the passenger vehicles segment has remained subdued so far which de-grew marginally by 0.2 per cent, as compared to July of 2024, posting sales of 3.41 lakh units in July 2025. With the advent of the festive season beginning with Onam festivities in the latter part of August, the Indian Auto Industry remains cautiously optimistic for the demand momentum to pick up in the coming months." The quadricycle segment, which sold only 19 units in July 2024, recorded no sales this year. (ANI) New Delhi [India], August 14 PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India]/ Cincinnati (Ohio) [US], August 14: Narwal, an award-winning niche technology solutions company, is excited to announce the appointment of Ravi Tenneti as Chief Strategy and Technology Officer. This strategic addition to Narwal's leadership team underscores the company's commitment to advancing its AI-first vision and delivering intelligent, enterprise-ready solutions across industries--further strengthening Narwal's position as a trusted partner for AI, Data, and Quality Engineering. Ravi is a strategy and execution focused technology leader with 20+ years of experience across a broad spectrum of technology functions and business transformations. He has held leadership roles at both Fortune 100 companies and high-growth scale-ups. Ravi serves on several advisory boards and councils, where he contributes thought leadership on AI strategy and innovation. Ravi holds a Bachelor's in Computer Science and Engineering, an MBA, and has completed the Executive Chief Technology Officer Program at Wharton. He was honored as a 40 Under 40 leader and recognized among the OnCon Icon Top 50 Technology Professionals (2025), a peer voted global honor. "At Narwal, we're committed to being the best at what we do. Bringing Ravi on as CSTO is a decisive step toward our vision of building the most trusted AI and data driven services company," said Raj Kanuparthi, Founder & CEO, Narwal. "Ravi's blend of strategic clarity and hands-on engineering leadership--especially in scaling AI responsibly--will help our clients move from pilots to production with speed, confidence, and measurable impact." "Joining Narwal at this moment is both exciting and purposeful," said Ravi Tenneti, CSTO, Narwal. "We'll double down on AI-ready data foundations, explainable and compliant AI, and agentic systems that act with purpose. Together with our clients and partners, we'll ship solutions that are strategic, scalable, and trusted." About Narwal Narwal is an award-winning niche technology solutions company specializing in AI, Data, and Quality Engineering. Narwal's customer-centric, people-first approach--combined with deep expertise and thought leadership--helps enterprises modernize platforms, operationalize AI, and achieve reliable digital outcomes. With a global presence across the US, UK, Canada, Mexico and India, Narwal partners with Fortune scale organizations and has delivered triple digit growth year over year. With Narwal, you're not just preparing for the future--you're building it. For more information, visit us on LinkedIn and www.narwal.ai. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2750472/Leadership_Ravi_Tenneti_Narwal.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) Jindal Steel & Power Limited New Delhi [India], August 14: In the wake of Operation Sindoor's resounding success, which dismantled terror infrastructure across the border, employees of Jindal Steel have come together in a heartfelt act of patriotism. By contributing one day's salary each, they have collectively raised 2 crore for the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund to support the welfare of soldiers and their families impacted in the line of duty. The cheque, representing this united employee contribution, was formally handed over by Chairman Shri Naveen Jindal to Hon'ble Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh in New Delhi today. "Our soldiers are the true sentinels of our nation. Their courage, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to protecting India inspire us all. This contribution from the Jindal Steel family is a humble gesture to honour their service and to stand firmly with them and their loved ones," said Shri Naveen Jindal. This initiative continues Jindal Steel's legacy of standing with the nation in moments of need. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the company contributed 25 crore to the PM-CARES Fund, supplied free oxygen to hospitals in Delhi, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh, distributed meals and PPE kits, upgraded medical facilities, and supported women's self-help groups in producing over 100,000 protective masks. In 2013, after the Uttarakhand (Kedarnath) tragedy, the company swiftly provided relief and essential supplies to disaster-hit regions. Through this united gesture, the Jindal Steel family reaffirms its deep respect and gratitude towards India's Armed Forces, underscoring a shared commitment to support those who safeguard the sovereignty and security of the nation. About Jindal Steel Jindal Steel is one of India's foremost integrated steel producers, renowned for its scale, efficiency, and commitment to excellence. Operating on a robust mine-to-metal model, the Company leverages captive resources, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a global distribution network to deliver high-performance steel solutions. With an investment footprint exceeding USD 12 billion, Jindal Steel runs state-of-the-art facilities in Angul, Raigarh, and Patratu, and maintains strategic operations across India, Africa, and Australia. Its diversified and future-ready product portfolio underpins core sectors such as infrastructure, construction, and manufacturing, powering progress through strength and sustainability. For Media Queries, please contact: Kuldeep Singh Bais - 9899692981, kuldeep.singh@jindalsteel.com (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by Jindal Steel & Power Limited. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) talks are ongoing across multiple channels, with both countries working towards a mutually beneficial agreement. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal on Thursday confirmed that India is actively engaged in negotiations with the US to expand trade and investment, deepening the India-US trade relationship. Speaking on the progress made on the BTA with the US, Barthwal said, "Our bilateral trade talks with the United States are going on. We are engaged. Bilateral deliberations are happening at different levels. One is at the negotiating team's level. Another one is at the ministerial level. Third, we are addressing issues at the diplomatic level and engaging various industries, including our own, to examine their concerns. So, this negotiation is happening across various channels. These negotiations are happening, and we are engaged. The US is a very important partner for us. For the US, India is also an important partner." While the discussions continue, there is still uncertainty regarding the exact schedule of the next negotiation round expected towards the end of August. Barthwal further added, "Closer to the date, which is the end of August, we will be able to know how that round will be progressing." Five rounds of negotiations have been held, with the last round taking place from July 14-18, 2025, in Washington. India and the US are discussing tariff concessions and market access in key sectors, aiming to finalise an interim deal. The talks cover various areas, including market access, Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS), Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), digital trade, customs, and trade facilitation. Officials from both sides have engaged in in-depth talks, making progress towards crafting a balanced agreement with early wins. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington, D.C., a Joint Statement was issued setting the goal to expand bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030, and to pursue a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) toward that end. Both countries aim to conclude the first tranche of the BTA by fall 2025. India and the US have set a target to double their trade to $500 billion by 2030. India is seeking improved market access for its goods and services, while the US is pushing for greater market access in key sectors In a separate interaction, a senior government official addressed concerns over the impact of US tariffs on Indian exports. The official noted that the government is closely monitoring the sectors most exposed to the US market and is working with key stakeholders to assess vulnerabilities. "We are in touch with the stakeholders. We understand which sectors are more exposed to us, and our commodity divisions are in discussions with various EPCs. The Minister has also taken meetings with the EPCs, particularly with those sectors which are labour-intensive. I have also taken a meeting with our officials, who are talking to the EPCs, trying to understand their exposure to the US," the official said. Highlighting the varying levels of export dependence, the official explained, "There are other companies which are more diversified, which are not only exporting to the US, but also exporting to the EU, exporting to the UK, exporting to other countries. Now, companies are also involved in standardising their exports; they may face some challenges that they are identifying, but they are also looking at other possibilities for diversification. And therefore, you know, our focus on this diversification and this export promotion mission is very, very important." In early August, the US imposed a 25 per cent tariff on most Indian goods, effective August 7, with exemptions for pharmaceuticals, electronics, semiconductors, and energy products. But US President Donald Trump further imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India, making the total imposition at 50 per cent. (ANI) VMPL New Delhi [India], August 14: In the evolving world of search engine optimisation, link building remains a cornerstone of digital success. But with skyrocketing costs, unpredictable Google algorithm updates, and AI-generated search disrupting how users find information, many businesses are struggling to secure high-quality backlinks without breaking the bank. GuestPostingService.net has stepped in with a game-changing solution: genuine guest posts on DA50+ blogs starting from just 199 per post -- blending affordability, authority, and AI-powered outreach for a future-proof SEO strategy. "We built GuestPostingService.net to give every business, no matter their budget, access to DA50+ backlinks that actually move rankings," said [Robin Gupta], founder of GuestPostingService.net. "Affordable doesn't have to mean low quality -- our 199 posts prove it." From 199: DA50 + Guest Posting Services That Boost Google Ranking In the last decade, the cost of a guest post on a high-authority blog has surged. Many providers charge 1,000 to 5,000 or more for placements, with industry averages hitting $77-$150 per post. GuestPostingService.net is disrupting that model by offering real DA50+ blog placements -- not PBNs, not expired domains -- at just 199. Each guest post package includes: Free content creation: Professionally written, SEO-optimised articles tailored to the client's niche. Keyword-focused backlinks: Strategically placed in DA50+ content for maximum SEO impact. Niche-relevant site selection: Ensuring every backlink comes from a blog aligned with the client's industry. One recent client, a small e-commerce store in the home decor niche, ordered ten DA50+ guest posts for just 1,990. Within six weeks, their target keyword "handmade wooden shelves" jumped from position 28 to 9 in Google. Organic traffic rose by 37%, and referral visits from the DA50+ blogs converted at 4.2%. Guest Posting vs Other Link Building Methods - Why DA50+ Wins in 2025 SEO professionals have multiple link-building tactics available, including: Directory submissions -- low cost, but limited SEO value. Social bookmarking -- good for indexing, not for rankings. Niche edits (link insertions) -- potentially risky if irrelevant. Private Blog Networks (PBNs) -- can be effective short-term but risky for penalties. DA50+ guest posting remains the gold standard because it's both Google-compliant and authority-building. These aren't random blogs -- they are established sites with real editorial oversight. The backlink is placed in fresh, niche-relevant content that serves readers while boosting the client's authority. "Publishing on DA50+ blogs means your link sits in an environment Google already trusts," explained [Robin Gupta]. "That trust transfers to your site in a way PBNs and spammy blogs can't replicate." Why DA50+ Guest Posting Thrives After Google's Latest Updates Google's recent core updates have put heavy emphasis on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). DA50+ guest posts naturally tick all these boxes: Experience: Your brand shares real-world insights in a credible environment. Expertise: High-quality content written to match the authority of a DA50+ site. 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ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same) VMPL Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], August 14: In a city where non-communicable diseases are steadily rising and awareness often trails behind medical need, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, appears to be quietly reshaping how healthcare engages with the public -- not just inside its ICUs and operating rooms, but also out in parks, auditoriums, school halls, and local radio airwaves. Over the past six months, the hospital has broadened its footprint beyond clinical care, running a range of initiatives aimed at preventive health, early diagnosis, and everyday well-being -- part of a growing shift in India's private healthcare space toward more sustained community engagement. From holding free health camps and community talks to creating localised radio campaigns in Hindi, the hospital's approach has leaned less on large-scale media spends and more on person-to-person contact -- meeting people where they are, whether that's in pensioner colonies, office canteens, or early morning walkers' groups. Building awareness, bit by bit Over 40 community health talks have been conducted in the last half-year alone, and hospital data shows that many of them were at RWAs, PSU offices, schools, and small businesses. Topics included the early warning signs of cardiac issues, understanding lifestyle-related cancers, and demystifying lesser-understood concerns like sleep apnea etc. Doctors conducting these sessions take questions directly from participants, many of whom may not have visited a hospital before. Many of the talks are timed with relevant global or national health days, which adds context and makes it easier to draw attention. On World Cancer Day and Mother's Day, for instance, awareness sessions focused on women's health, breast cancer myths, and the importance of preventive health checks. Health messaging on air In a state where local radio remains an influential medium for daily information, the hospital has used on-air campaigns to widen its message. On radio, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur ran a liver health series titled "Jaani Liver", aimed at educating listeners on fatty liver, hepatitis, and alcohol-related damage. Another programme, "Kidney Ka RJ", took on the growing issue of chronic kidney disease -- a condition that often goes undetected in its early stages. The tone across these shows was conversational, not clinical, blending basic education with real-life scenarios. One of the more hard-hitting campaigns was "Dhuandhaar Paari Ki Samaapti" -- a tobacco cessation series designed to coincide with No Tobacco Day. Through short episodes and interviews, the campaign focused on both the physical and emotional effects of tobacco use, and the support available for those trying to quit. These efforts, though not new, reflect a more consistent and hyperlocal model of outreach -- one the local community has begun to notice. Prevention on the ground The hospital's preventive care push has also included a series of free health camps. In over 25 locations across Jaipur and surrounding areas, medical teams have provided basic screenings -- for blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, and in some cases, ECGs and liver/kidney function checks. Such camps serve two purposes: offering low-barrier access to initial screening, and encouraging attendees to follow up with regular medical care. On the environmental front, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur marked World Environment Day with a sapling plantation drive and distribution of reusable cotton bags. The message was simple but relevant: public health and environmental health are increasingly interlinked. The hospital also organised a walkathon to promote the benefits of regular physical activity. In another effort tied to World Yoga Day, it hosted a 7-day yoga event across city parks, community spaces, and the hospital campus, drawing participation from over 2,500 people -- ranging from students to senior citizens. Looking ahead: a community run for heart health Later this year, on September 21, the hospital will conduct the third edition of its flagship public health event -- Run for Heart, held in observance of World Heart Day. The event, which draws over a thousand participants annually, is expected to feature three categories: a 3 km fun run, and 5 km and 10 km timed runs. Shaping perception, slowly but steadily While public-private partnerships and policy-level interventions often dominate headlines, much of the slow, grassroots-level shift in health awareness tends to happen through quieter efforts like these -- layered over time, embedded in local culture, and shaped more by trust than by branding. In Jaipur, where access to modern healthcare has improved but awareness gaps still persist, particularly in preventive care and early diagnosis, CK Birla Hospital's approach may be helping narrow the divide. Technology driving advanced care Alongside its community initiatives, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur continues to strengthen its role as a centre for advanced medical technology. The hospital offers high-end robotic surgery for soft tissue procedures in gynaecology, urology, and general surgery, performed by an experienced team of specialists. These robotic-assisted procedures are minimally invasive and highly precise, offering significant patient benefits such as minimal blood loss, reduced post-operative pain and discomfort, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times -- helping patients return to their daily lives sooner. (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) PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], August 14: NAVA Limited, a diversified Indian multinational conglomerate operating across Metals, Mining, Energy, Commercial Agriculture, and Healthcare, today announced its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. The Company reported its highest-ever quarterly PBT, alongside steady progress on its strategic initiatives in India and overseas. Key Business Highlights Consolidated Q1 FY26: * Total income: 1,232.6 crore, up 16.7% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) and marginally lower by 2.0% year-on-year (YoY). * Net profit: 399.1 crore - up 31.8% QoQ and lower by 10.5% YoY. * Average tax rate is higher, as profits from the power division of MEL are subject to tax at 15% from Q1 FY26. * Maamba Energy Limited (MEL): Received arrears of USD 75.0 million, reducing outstanding receivables to USD 85.5 million. * Sponsors received maiden dividend from MEL, with Nava group receiving USD 32.5 million as its share. * Projects: MEL's Phase II 300 MW expansion and MSEL's 100 MW solar project in Zambia are on track for scheduled commissioning in Q2 of FY 2027. Business Performance (Q1 FY26): * Metals: Ferro alloys sales volume rose to 33,130 MT from 25,116 MT YoY, with further improved realizations in Ferro Silicon exports. * Energy: Strong operational performance across India and Zambia; MEL sustained high PLF at 95.2%. Indian power plants also operated at an overall average PLF of 86.6% during the quarter. * Mining: Continued stable operations and profitability. * Commercial Agriculture: Avocado plantations are on track for first commercial harvest (~250 MT) in Nov/Dec 2025; Sugar cane plantation for the integrated sugar project has commenced with key project management being undertaken by group companies and the 20 MW Co-generation power plant being set for relocation to Zambia as part of this Project.. The capex outlay for the sugar project is now estimated to be USD 200.0 Mn, taking into account evaluated capital commitments. Standalone Q1 FY26: * Total revenue: 572.7 crore, up 8.4% QoQ and 5.0% YoY including dividend of USD 4.0 Mn from Nava Global Pte Ltd (formerly Nava Bharat (Singapore) Pte Ltd). * PAT: 141.0 crore, up 45.2% QoQ and 7.6% YoY. Strategic Updates: * Received approvals for the segregation two captive power plants in Telangana and Odisha as IPPs. The operationalization of this segregation is envisaged in Q3/Q4 resulting in better productivity in energy division thereafter. * Nava Global will directly hold 65% equity in MSEL in a JV with ZCCM-IH (35%) to obtain a higher and independent enterprise value. * It has been decided to amalgamate the intermediate holding company on commercial agriculture with Nava Global making the latter a investment hub for all overseas operating ventures in metals, mining, energy and commercial agriculture Commenting on the performance, Managing Director and CEO, Ashwin Devineni, said: "We are pleased to report our highest-ever quarterly PBT, driven by strong operations across our energy portfolio and improved realizations in the metals business. The 50% tax concession regime applicable to the power division under MEL impacted the PAT for the quarter. The resolution of a substantial portion of MEL's receivables and the receipt of its maiden dividend are significant steps in further strengthening our cash position. Our strategic projects -- from renewable energy in Zambia to commercial agriculture in Africa -- are progressing as planned, positioning us for sustainable growth. The planned conversion of our captive power assets to IPPs will further enhance operational efficiency. We remain committed to disciplined capital allocation, operational excellence, and the timely execution of our growth plans to create enduring value for all stakeholders." About Nava Limited Founded in 1972, Nava Limited is a publicly listed multinational corporation with interests in metals, energy, mining, healthcare, and commercial agriculture. As one of India's leading ferroalloy producers, Nava also operates Zambia's largest mine-to-mouth power plant. Expanding its global presence, Nava is investing in commercial agriculture in Zambia and in healthcare in Southeast Asia. For more information, please visit www.navalimited.com. Media Contact: Ms. Lisa Rufus G. Phone: +91 91542 40656 Email: lisa.r@navalimited.com Nava Limited will host a conference call to discuss the quarterly financial results in detail on 14 August 2025 at 1600hrs (IST). Investors and stakeholders are invited to visit the company's website for further details. This document may contain forward-looking statements based on management's beliefs, opinions, and expectations as of the date of this release. Actual results may vary due to risks and uncertainties, and the company does not assume any obligation to update such statements in response to future developments. Please refer to official disclosures for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2272192/4394670/Nava_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) NewsVoir New Delhi [India], August 14: Gartex Texprocess India is set to break new grounds with its upcoming exhibition scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi from 21st-23rd August 2025 in Halls 2, 3, and 4. Organised by MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd., and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt Ltd the Gartex Texprocess India 2025 will introduce two new additions aimed at widening the spectrum and catering to stakeholders across industries- a brand-new LeatherX Pavilion and the Textile Care Forum. An all-encompassing platform, the exhibition is future-focused and promises to be a landmark event for the garment, textile manufacturing, leather goods and denim industry. The New Delhi edition is expected to witness participation from over 200 exhibitors and 600+ brands, including international companies from China, Japan, Italy, Germany and Singapore, with a remarkable 35% of the exhibitors as first-time participants. Spread across 1,50,000+ sq ft show area, the exhibition will incorporate The Denim Show (in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association), and will feature several dedicated zones, including Fabrics and Trims Show and Screen Print India - Textile and LeatherX Pavilion. The Delhi edition of Gartex Texprocess India is also set to feature a Textile Care Forum, a Knowledge Session in association with the Drycleaners and Launderers Association of India., scheduled to occur on day two of the Expo (22nd August 2025) which will spotlight discussions on how washing and finishing influence a garment's lifecycle and environmental footprint while staying informed on EPR guidelines, green chemistry and sustainable laundry practices. Meanwhile, the LeatherX Pavilion, making its debut in 2025, will open-up new avenues for collaboration in industries like leather processing and tanning, fashion accessories and footwear. This addition underscores the vision of integrating complementary sectors and addressing a broader range of industry requirements. Sharing his excitement on the upcoming exhibition, Mr Raj Manek, Executive Director & Board Member, Messe Frankfurt Asia Holdings Ltd. said, "The remarkable growth of India's textile sector is mirrored in the success of Gartex Texprocess India across both its editions. The show continues to deliver unmatched value for every visitor and exhibitor alike. This year, with the introduction of the Textile Care Forum and LeatherX Pavilion, along with the spotlight on smart automation in the laundry and dry-cleaning industry, we are set to elevate the experience further." Over the last decade, Gartex Texprocess India has experienced significant growth. Initially focused solely on garment machinery and manufacturing solutions, the show has now expanded to a much broader scope, encompassing knitting, embroidery, digital printing, sewing technologies, trims, and accessories, in addition to participation from a diverse array of software and e-commerce enablers. Expressing their anticipation at the upcoming edition, Ms Himani Gulati and Mr Gaurav Juneja, Directors of MEX Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, stated, "With over 200 exhibitors and about 600 brands, this edition of Gartex Texprocess India is set to be one of the most impactful to date. In the last five years, the show has grown immensely in terms of product categories. Our continued focus on technology-driven solutions, value-added machinery and new features like the Textile Care Forum and LeatherX Pavilion ensures the show remains a complete sourcing and networking destination for the garment and textile industry." India is also one of the world's top producers of denim fabric with manufacturing capacity touching 1,600mn meters annually according to the Denim Show. The Indian denim jeans market generated a revenue of USD 2,433.5 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3,859.5 million by 2030 along with being expected to grow at a CAGR of 8%, according to the Grand View Research. While the industry continues to grow and the fashion trends evolve, the Denim Show co-located at Gartex Texprocess India, which is organised in association with the Denim Manufacturers Association (DMA) adds value by enabling denim industry stakeholders to catalyse business contacts through corporate networking, besides locating and reaching out to the target customers. The upcoming edition marks a significant expansion as textile manufacturing makes new developments, expands the trade and innovates with much vigour. This year with companies under LeatherX Pavilion and the dry cleaning segments being added into the fray, the visitor and product profile is bound to expand holistically. Together, these areas offer a 360-degree view of the industry, from raw materials and production technologies to value-added services and finished goods. This along with the Denim Show and the Gartex Texprocess India New Delhi go a long way in showcasing Indian capabilities to the global platform. MEX Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd. is an international exhibition company with a strong presence of over four decades in the advertising industry, over 28 years in publishing & 23 years in exhibitions. The company has produced more than 100 market-leading trade exhibitions for various segments in addition to publishing various magazines & advertising trade directories of repute. Successful exhibitions are conducted all over India, Dubai, Singapore, Canada and Thailand. For more details, visit our website at: www.mexexhibits.com. The Messe Frankfurt Group is the world's largest trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. With a workforce of some 2,500 people at its headquarters in Frankfurt am Main and in 28 subsidiaries, it organises events around the world. Group sales in financial year 2024 were EUR 775 million. We serve our customers' business interests efficiently within the framework of our Fairs & Events, Locations and Services business fields. One of Messe Frankfurt's key strengths is its powerful and closely knit global sales network, which covers around 180 countries in all regions of the world. Our comprehensive range of services - both onsite and online - ensures that customers worldwide enjoy consistently high quality and flexibility when planning, organising and running their events. We are using our digital expertise to develop new business models. The wide range of services includes renting exhibition grounds, trade fair construction and marketing, personnel and food services. Sustainability is a central pillar of our corporate strategy. Here, we strike a healthy balance between ecological and economic interests, social responsibility and diversity. For more information, please visit our website at: www.messefrankfurt.com/sustainability. With its headquarters in Frankfurt am Main, the company is owned by the City of Frankfurt (60 percent) and the State of Hesse (40 percent). (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) In a landmark moment redefining Mumbai's urban landscape, TCC Construction Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between Capacit'e Infraprojects and Tata Projects, the executing construction partners, has handed over the first phase of newly redeveloped homes under the BDD Chawl Redevelopment Project in Worli. The ceremonial handover took place today in the presence of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis along with Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister and Housing Minister of Maharashtra and Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister, dignitaries and senior officials from the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), and leadership teams from Tata Projects and Capacit'e Infraprojects. Spearheaded by MHADA, in joint collaboration with Tata Projects Ltd. and Capacit'e Infraprojects Ltd., the Worli BDD Chawl redevelopment project is one of the largest and most ambitious public housing transformations in the country. Once home to aging and dilapidated structures built over a century ago, the site will be transformed into a modern urban habitat consisting of 33 high-rise towers with 40 floors each. These towers house spacious 2BHK apartments with a 500 sq. ft. carpet area, designed to meet the aspirations of modern living while staying rooted in community values. During the event, keys were ceremoniously handed over to the 556 flat owners under Phase 1 of the project. With state-of-the-art amenities, modern infrastructure, and thoughtfully designed residences, the project marks a significant step in fulfilling the long-cherished dreams of BDD Chawl residents. Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, said: "The redevelopment of BDD Chawls is not just about constructing new buildings, it is about restoring dignity, comfort, and security to thousands of Mumbaikars who have waited for decades. Guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of inclusive and transformative urban development, we have ensured 500 sq. ft. homes with world-class amenities, and awarded this project through a global tender to reputed firms like Tata Projects and Capacit'e Infraprojects. This is proof that with the right intent and execution, government-led redevelopment can be faster, transparent, and truly people-centric" Vinayak Pai, MD and CEO, Tata Projects Limited, said, "The BDD Chawl redevelopment pushed us to redefine what's possible when engineering excellence aligns with social impact. Constructing 33 towers, each rising 40 storeys, while keeping families at the heart of this transformation, demanded innovation at every level. Our joint venture with Capacit'e has set new benchmarks in speed and quality of execution." "The handover of the first redeveloped flats under the BDD Chawl project represents a pivotal milestone in Mumbai's urban transformation journey. This initiative exemplifies what's possible when visionary governance, engineering excellence, and collaborative execution come together with purpose. We congratulate MHADA and the Government of Maharashtra for its leadership and thank Tata Projects for their partnership in this endeavour," said Rohit Katyal, Chairman & Executive Director, Capacit'e Infraprojects Limited. The redevelopment stands as a testament to inclusive urban progress and represents one of India's largest urban renewal efforts aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, setting a national benchmark for community-focused infrastructure development. (ANI) Economists and market experts have welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to upgrade India's sovereign credit rating from BBB- to BBB, terming it a recognition of the country's strong fundamentals, sound fiscal management, and growing global economic clout. In a significant boost to investor confidence, S&P Global Ratings has upgraded India's long-term unsolicited sovereign credit rating to 'BBB', while also raising the short-term rating to 'A-2' from 'A-3'. The outlook on the long-term rating remains stable, reflecting optimism around India's policy continuity, robust economic growth, and improved fiscal management. Alongside the rating upgrade, S&P also revised its transfer and convertibility assessment for India to 'A-' from 'BBB+', citing an improved monetary and external environment. According to S&P, the stable outlook suggests confidence in India's ability to sustain its growth trajectory, driven by high levels of infrastructure investment and a disciplined policy environment. The Ministry of Finance said the rating improvement "reaffirms that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, providing stability, India's economy is truly agile, active, and resilient." It noted that India has kept fiscal discipline a priority while pushing infrastructure growth and inclusive development. These factors, it added, have played a key role in achieving the upgrade. The Finance Ministry stated that India will "continue its buoyant growth momentum and undertake steps for further reforms to attain the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047," underscoring that the current direction of fiscal and economic policy will remain unchanged. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, also emphasised that India is prioritising fiscal consolidation, maintaining a strong infrastructure creation drive, and advancing an inclusive growth approach. "This is also a testament that at the heart of our journey towards Viksit Bharat lies our economic resilience and our government's unwavering commitment to ensure a better life for every Indian," he stated in a tweet. Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, called the upgrade "much required" and said his own assessment had suggested India deserved a higher rating. "I am pleased to hear that S&P has upgraded India's sovereign rating to BBB from BBB-. This was much required because, as I have said before, the difference between what the ratings were being given by the three big rating agencies and my own model suggested was a gap of two notches," Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council. Sonal Badhan, Economist at Bank of Baroda, said the move would boost investor confidence and aid capital flows. "In both the short and long term, foreign capital inflows can be expected to be impacted positively, as the upgrade reaffirms trust in India's 'sound fundamentals' and 'growth momentum'. We are likely to see higher FPI inflows this year and a decline in bond yields," she noted. Rishi Shah, Partner & Economic Advisory Services Leader at Grant Thornton Bharat, described the decision as "long overdue," adding, "India's fundamentals were such that this rating upgrade should have happened before time. Our fiscal management and monetary management have been excellent since Covid, especially compared to the rest of the world." Manoranjan Sharma, Chief Economist, Infomerics Ratings, said, "It is a recognition of India's growing financial might and clout on the global scene. India has arrived on the global scene, and this is a fair recognition of the kind of influence India has, both economically and materially. This will also have an important implications for India, both at the level of macro economy, and also for case of companies, when we raise loans abroad, this improved rating will significantly lower the rate of interest on our loans and advances, and to that extent, it will be beneficial both to the Indian economy and also to a large number of firms who raise Money in the international market." Rishi Shah (Partner & Economic advisory services leader, Grant Thornton Bharat) on S&P upgraded sovereign rating of India from BBB- to BBB, "This is a positive development, long overdue. India's fundamentals were such that this rating upgrade should have happened before time. They have implemented changes slightly in a delayed fashion, especially since Covid, because our fundamentals have been improving since then. This is partly due to a drop in them because of COVID and the measures the government had to take. But more importantly, these need to be seen in a relative sense. How well have we done since COVID, as opposed to the rest of the world? I think our fiscal management and monetary management have been excellent. And that's why I think this rating is just a reflection of that." The rating upgrade is expected to improve India's appeal to global investors, reduce borrowing costs, and further strengthen its macroeconomic position amid global uncertainties. All four agencies consider India to be investment grade, though at the lower end of the scale. S&P's upgrade to BBB is the most notable recent change and signals increased confidence in India's fiscal and economic management. Moody's and Fitch continue with stable outlooks, reflecting both strengths (growth, resilience) and challenges (high debt levels, fiscal constraints). The Indian government has been critical of sovereign credit ratings methodology, as the Economic Survey of 2020-21 highlighted that it should be made more transparent, less subjective and better attuned to reflect economies' fundamentals. Recently, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary said the Government has made sustained efforts to strengthen India's overall economic outlook, thereby positively impacting its credit profile. These include maintaining sound macroeconomic fundamentals, such as steady growth, price stability, fiscal consolidation, a resilient external sector, robust foreign exchange reserves, a strong banking sector and enhancing physical and digital infrastructure to support investment. (ANI) Actor Antony Starr penned an emotional goodbye to his 'The Boys' character Homelander on Wednesday as the Amazon series wrapped production on its fifth and final season. In his Instagram handle, Antony Starr penned a long, heartfelt caption and posted some behind-the-scenes photos from the superhero satire. The actor called his character 'Homelander' a true "highlight" of his career. "Difficult (for me) to put into words what an incredible ride this has been. How much life and growth has occurred. How amazing the team is. It's truly been the highlight of my career," Starr wrote. "When we began, I had no idea what was coming. This juggernaut left the station and never stopped. Except for that Covid moment. Oh and the strikes. That was a thing too. But apart from those two times, it never stopped, boldly making its mark on the television landscape. There's nothing else like it. It lives in its own lane," added Antony Starr. With production on the final season having wrapped, Starr then handed out thank yous to "the incredible Canadian crew. The amazing production team. The insanely talented cast. The people at Amazon and Sony that took a chance on this insane thing(and made the great choice in casting me)and all the other people that contributed in some way, big or small, to this beautiful, complex, warped, delicious show." The actor then thanked showrunner Eric Kripke, whom he called his "co-parent with his twisted gem of a character". "We created a monster, sir. And I will miss him, and you. Till we roll out the last season. When I'll see you. But this creative chapter is closed, and I'll miss it, brother," added Starr. He concluded: "Okidoke people. We cooked for the last time. Can't wait to show you what we made. TIL that day, Homelander, signing off." https://www.instagram.com/p/DNSLXZLuHXT/? 'The Boys' first debuted in 2019 and has received both commercial and critical acclaim, landing eight Emmy nominations, including for outstanding drama series. Though the final season of 'The Boys' isn't expected to air until next year, spinoff series 'Gen V', which follows college-aged supes, is set to premiere its second season on September 17. (ANI) Denzel Washington has nine Academy Award nominations under his belt and is a two-time Oscar winner for his performances in the movies 'Glory' and 'Training Day'. However, the actor places no value on such career milestones, reported Variety. While speaking to "Jake's Takes" on his "Highest 2 Lowest" press tour, as quoted by Variety, Washington said no acting decision he makes in his career has to do with winning awards, including Oscars. "I don't do it for Oscars. I don't care about that kind of stuff. I've been at this a long time, and there's time when I won and shouldn't have won and then didn't win and should've won. Man gives the award. God gives the reward," said Washington as quoted by Variety. Washington continued, "I'm not that interested in Oscars. People ask me, 'Where do I keep it?' Well, next to the other one. I'm not bragging! Just telling you how I feel about it. On my last day, [Oscars] aren't going to do me a bit of good," as quoted by Variety. Just earlier this year, Washington was considered a major Oscar snub after he failed to land a best supporting actor nomination for 'Gladiator II.' The actor didn't care about it as he sarcastically told The New York Times when asked about the snub, "Are you kidding me? Aww, oh, I'm so upset. I'm happy for all that did, and I'm happy with what I'm doing," as quoted by Variety. Not getting caught up in awards has long been Washington's mantra. His "Training Day" co-star Ethan Hawke appeared on Max's "Who's Talking to Chris Wallace?" last year, as quoted by Variety and remembered how Washington leaned over to him when Hawke lost best supporting actor on Oscar night to tell him, "It's better that you didn't win. Losing was better." "You don't want an award to improve your status. You want to improve the award's status. That's the way he thinks," Hawke said about Washington's advice in the moment. "That's what I'm talking about, playing with Babe Ruth. The Academy Award has more power because Denzel has a couple. It didn't elevate who he was," added Hawke about Washington as quoted by Variety. Denzel Washington will be next seen in the film 'Highest 2 Lowest', which is slated to release in theatres worldwide on August 15. (ANI) Earlier on Wednesday, Janhvi observed Sridevi's 62nd birth anniversary by paying a visit to Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh to offer prayers. The day after, she took to her Instagram handle and shared a string of old family pictures. https://www.instagram.com/p/DNUkhO8M1OK/ The first picture shows a very young Boney Kapoor and Sridevi holding baby Janhvi, while the other ones feature the family together. One of them shows young Janhvi and Khushi dressed in traditional outfits and posing with their parents. Janhvi also shared a few of her recent pictures in a purple saree, which she paired with traditional jewellery and a simple hairstyle. "Happy Birthday Mumma every step with your name in my heart," the actress wrote in her caption. On Wednesday, Sidharth Malhotra, who also accompanied Janhvi to the temple, shared a video in which they were seen heading together. He also mentioned that it was his first-ever visit to Tirumala Temple, further adding that his 'Param Sundari' co-star offers prayers every year. Meanwhile, Janhvi Kapoor's father, producer Boney Kapoor and her sister, Khushi Kapoor, also shared posts, remembering Sridevi on her birth anniversary. https://www.instagram.com/p/DNQ__UjyIvg/ "Yesssss, you are not 62 today. You are 26. Happy birthday, we are still reliving all your happy birthdays," Boney Kapoor wrote in one of his posts. On the work front, Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra will be next seen in Tushar Jalota's 'Param Sundari.'. It tells the chaotic love story of a Punjabi munda and a Kerala girl. Sanjay Kapoor and Manjot Singh also have prominent roles in the film. The trailer for the film was unveiled earlier this week, promising a perfect mix of romance, comedy, and action. 'Param Sundar' will be released on August 29. (ANI) Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa has been arrested in the Renukaswamy murder case, shortly after the Supreme Court canceled his bail on Thursday. The actor has been taken to the Annapoorneshwarinagar police station and will be later produced before the court. Visuals show the actor being taken away in the police van amid heavy security. As confirmed by S Girish, DCP Bengaluru South, four others have also been arrested in the matter, including Kannada actor Pavithra Gowda, Lakshman, Pradosh, and Nagaraj. Earlier in the day, a bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan quashed the interim bail granted to Darshan by the Karnataka High Court, stating that he was given bail without adequate consideration of the witness intimidation and other illegalities. The Karnataka government had also filed a plea in the apex court against the actor's bail order. Speaking on the same, advocate DL Chidananda told ANI, "The Supreme Court said that the High Court has not followed the principles of law which apply for granting bail. It also reiterated that the rule of law prevails in the country and, however influential an individual may be, they must be treated in accordance with the law." On the other hand, Karnataka Chief Minister's legal advisor, AS Ponnanna, asserted that granting bail to Darshan would have hampered the investigation and the ongoing trial. "The state government and the prosecution agency were vindicated. It was the state government's decision that, in a case like this, where a serious offence has been registered, granting him bail would hamper the investigation and trial, as he is a powerful person. They did not want him to use his muscle to derail the prosecution's case," he said. Darshan Thoogudeepa has been named in the chargesheet in the Renukaswamy murder case, involving the killing of the 33-year-old Chitradurga resident. The victim's remains were found in Bengaluru's Kamakshipalya on June 9, 2024. (ANI) The Indian film industry has significantly contributed excellent performances in the patriotic genre, often reliving the country's struggle for independence. Top actors like Aamir Khan, Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Vicky Kaushal, and Sharman Joshi have also managed to step into the shoes of some great freedom fighters and invoke patriotism on the big screen. As India observes its 79th Independence Day this year, here's a look at some Bollywood actors who have delivered memorable performances as freedom fighters. Ajay Devgn (Bhagat Singh in The Legend of Bhagat Singh) While Bhagat Singh's life and fearless role in India's freedom movement have largely influenced a lot of films, it is Ajay Devgn's portrayal of the character that remains memorable to date. Devgn impressed audiences with his strong performance, offering a tribute to Bhagat Singh's bravery and sacrifice. The actor even went on to win the National Film Award for Best Actor for this role. Aamir Khan (Mangal Pandey in Mandal Pandey: The Rising) The Bollywood superstar stepped into the shoes of the Indian soldier in this biographical war drama, set during the Revolt of 1857. As the titular character, Aamir exuded immense power and a rebellious spirit that sparked the First War of Independence. Kangana Ranaut (Rani Lakshmi Bai in Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi) Kangana Ranaut delivered a very powerful performance as Rani Lakshmi Bai in the historical drama. The film is focused on the life of Lakshmi Bai, her origin, fearless personality, and her major role in the Revolt of 1857. For her performance, Kangana won a National Award. Vicky Kaushal (Sardar Udham Singh in Sardar Udham) Vicky Kaushal has taken up the titular role in the biographical historical drama film. It focuses on how Kaushal essayed Sardar Udham Singh, who led the assassination plan against Michael O'Dwyer to avenge the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The film opened to positive reviews, with many applauding the actor's performance. Sharman Joshi (Shivaram Rajguru in Rang De Basanti) The film, which beautifully connects the modern youth to India's freedom struggle, saw Sharman Joshi delivering a powerful performance as Rajguru. With the use of flashbacks, the characters' present-day lives are shown to be largely influenced by the patriotic spirit. With all that said, all these remarkably talented Bollywood actors have highlighted the courage and sacrifices that shaped India's journey towards independence. (ANI) Congress leader Pawan Khera on Wednesday alleged that BJP leader Anurag Thakur's quick access to voter data of two parliamentary constituencies indicated an "understanding" between the ruling party and the Election Commission (EC). Khera highlighted the disparity in the time taken to obtain similar data, saying it took the Congress four to six months to collect information for one Assembly constituency, while the BJP had secured data for two parliamentary seats almost immediately. "It took us 4-6 months to bring forward this data of one Assembly constituency. They have brought out the data of two Parliamentary constituencies. How did they get it? This proves that they have an understanding with the EC," Khera said. He alleged that Thakur might have obtained the data directly from the "electronic voter list" and called it "evidence of crime." Khera accused the BJP of trying to divert attention, but said that by raising questions over votes in Wayanad and Kannauj, the ruling party had validated the Opposition's charge of irregularities in the electoral rolls. "Why is he diverting the issue? He presented some data today. Those were the data from Wayanad and Kannauj. He says that there are fake votes there too. So, he has proven what we have said. Anurag Thakur and BJP are raising the same question on EC that we had raised. So, they have proven what we said," he said. Khera was reacting to Thakur's press conference in which he hit back at Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi for his claim of "vote theft" alleging that Congress defeated Bhimrao Ambedkar, regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution, in the 1952 general election through electoral fraud. He demanded that the BJP release the electronic voter list for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Varanasi constituency alleging that the BJP's agreement that the voter lists contain fake names means the 2024 Lok Sabha polls were conducted on flawed. Khera demanded that the electronic voter list for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Varanasi constituency be made public. He said, "When they have the electronic voter list with them, we demand that they make the electronic voter list of Varanasi, PM's constituency, public. We will make things clear." He said both the BJP and the Opposition acknowledged fake voter lists, which meant the 2024 Lok Sabha elections were illegitimate and should be cancelled. Khera noted, "When you say that this is a fake voter list, we too are saying that the 2024 Lok Sabha elections were held on a fake voter list, so the 2024 elections should be considered illegitimate and should be cancelled. All political parties should together hold a fresh discussion on this as to how to get the voter list foolproof." Earlier, at a press conference at the BJP headquarters, Anurag Thakur had targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, claiming, "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." "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," Thakur said. 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. (ANI) The Delhi High Court on Wednesday upheld the accused's right to be heard by the trial court before it takes cognizance of a chargesheet. The order came on pleas filed by Lakshay Vij and nine other accused in a money laundering case. Justice Ravinder Dudeja allowed ten petitions seeking enforcement of the right to be heard before cognizance. Earlier, the Supreme Court had also upheld the provision under Section 223 BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita), 2023. While deciding the petition of Kushal Kumar Agarwal on May 9, 2025, the Supreme Court had said, "We direct the appellant to appear before the Special Court on 14th July, 2025, so that he can be given an opportunity of being heard in terms of the proviso to sub-section (1) of Section 223 of the BNSS. We make it clear that no further notice shall be issued by the Special Court to the appellant." Under Section 223 of BNSS, it is provided that the accused is to be heard by the trial court before taking cognizance of the charge sheet filed against him. On January 17, 2025, Vij had challenged an order passed by the trial court rejecting his plea seeking the opportunity to be heard on the point of cognizance in terms of the proviso to Section 223, BNSS, 2023. He had challenged the order of January 4, 2025, passed by the special judge at Rouse Avenue Courts. ED had filed a Prosecution Complaint (Charge sheet) against Vij. Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa and advocate Prabhav Ralli appeared for Lakshay Vij. It was submitted by the counsel that after filing of the Prosecution Complaint on 19.09.2024, Vij had filed an application seeking the opportunity to be heard on the point of cognizance in terms of the proviso to Sec 223, BNSS, 2023. The same was rejected by the court. It was also submitted that, as per provisions of Sec 223, BNSS, 2023, to PMLA, 2002, it is the sacrosanct right of the accused, in cases instituted upon a complaint, to be heard at the time of cognizance. The Enforcement Directorate had registered a case in the matter on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI. The plea had mentioned that the Central Bureau of Investigation, International Operations Division, registered on 04.07.2023 for commission of alleged offences under 120-B read with 419 and 420 of IPC. It is pertinent to mention that the Applicant was not named in the aforesaid FIR. It is also mentioned that the ED had recorded an ECIR on 04.12.2023 under sections 3 & 4 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The Petitioner was arrested by the ED on 22.07.2024, and the Prosecution Complaint was filed on 19.09.2024. It was submitted that on 04.01.2025, the Trial Court rejected the plea of the Petitioner while holding that the proviso to Sec 223, BNSS, 2023 would not apply to a Complaint under the PMLA, 2002, and proceeded to list the matter for arguments on cognizance from the side of the prosecution on 18.01.2025. (ANI) In their relentless efforts to counter cross-border smuggling of narcotics, vigilant Border Security Forces (BSF) troops in collaboration with the Punjab Police recovered a drone with heroin on the Tarn Taran border, the BSF said in a release on Wednesday. Public Relations Officer, Punjab Frontier, Border Security Force (BSF) said, "Today (August 13), based on BSF's intelligence, 01 DJI AIR 3 S drone with 01 packet of heroin (Gross weight- 600 Grams) was recovered in a joint search operation with Punjab Police from a farming field near village Wan of district Tarn Taran." This recovery highlights another success of BSF jointly with the Punjab Police in foiling the malicious attempt through a drone by Pakistani narco smugglers from across the border, the BSF added. More details are awaited. Earlier on Tuesday, the BSF seized two pistols and heroin in two separate incidents along the Ferozpur and Amritsar border, the BSF said in a press release. "In its crackdown on cross-border smuggling of arms and narcotics, the alert BSF troops seized two pistols and heroin in two separate incidents along the Ferozpur and Amritsar border. This afternoon, acting on precise information of BSF intelligence wing, the vigilant BSF troops on duty successfully recovered 01 big packet containing 02 pistols and 03 small packets of heroin (Gross weight- 1.649 Kgs) from an area adjacent to village Bhakra in Ferozepur," BSF said in the release. BSF said that the big packet was wrapped in yellow adhesive tape with a metal ring attached. "Before this, the dutiful BSF troops recovered one packet of heroin with a gross weight of 609 grams from a farming field adjacent to Daoke village in Amritsar. Two illuminating sticks with an iron ring were attached to the narcotics packet," BSF further said. These remarkable operations by the alert BSF troops mark their resolute action in devastating the nefarious attempts of cross-border Pakistani smugglers. In a similar incident, the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered three packets of heroin in two separate incidents in Tarn Taran and Amritsar border, BSF said in a press release on Monday. Based on BSF's intelligence, one packet of heroin with a gross weight of 581 grams was recovered in a joint search operation with the Punjab Police from a farming field near Wan village of Tarn Taran district. It was found wrapped with yellow adhesive tape and a copper wire loop attached. In a post on X, BSF shared, "In a determined push against cross-border narcotics smuggling, vigilant BSF troops recovered three packets of heroin in two separate operations along the Tarn Taran and Amritsar borders. Acting on BSF intelligence, one packet (581 gms) was seized during a joint search with Punjab Police from a field near village Wan, Tarn Taran. It was wrapped in yellow adhesive tape with a copper wire loop attached." On Saturday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab is the first state in the country to deploy anti-drone systems at the international border. He said the move aims to curb the increasing challenges posed by drone-based smuggling activities across the border. Mann said this after he, along with AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, launched the 'Baaj Akh'- Anti Drone System (ADS) on Saturday at Tarn Taran. "To strengthen border security and tackle the challenges posed by drone-based smuggling, nine anti-drone units are being set up along the international border. The Chief Minister said that an amount of Rs 51.4 crore is being spent on these units," he said. (ANI) Taking a tough stand on illegal conversion, the Uttarakhand State Cabinet has approved the Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday, under which strong provisions have been added for stringent penalties on illegal conversion, a ban on propaganda through digital media and protection of victims. The bill was passed during a meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The Bill includes punishment for marriage under false identity and incitement for conversion through social media, messaging apps or any online medium, among others. The bill has broadened the definition of inducement, which includes gifts, cash/goods benefits, employment, free education, promise of marriage, hurting religious sentiments or glorifying another religion, all of which are included in the category of crime. The bill has placed a ban on the use of digital means to spread propaganda or incitement for conversion through social media, messaging apps, or any online medium, which is punishable. Under the bill, strict punishment, up to 3 to 10 years for general violation, 5 to 14 years in cases related to sensitive sections, 20 years to life imprisonment in serious cases and a heavy fine are made. The bill has made provision for protection, rehabilitation, medical, travel and maintenance expenses of the victims. The state government said that this law will protect the religious rights of citizens, prevent conversion by fraud, inducement or pressure and maintain social harmony. Earlier, on Wednesday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of Yoga Park and other development works in Kedarpuram under Dehradun Municipal Corporation. On this occasion, he launched the AI chatbot 'Nigam Sarathi' and also unveiled the document of Green Policy. The Chief Minister planted a Rudraksha sapling under the name of Ek Ped Maa Naam, which was the one lakhth sapling planted this year under the Municipal Corporation area of Dehradun under the massive plantation campaign run by the government. In the programme, the Chief Minister also honoured the Swachhata Samman Senani and Tax Inspectors. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also administered a collective oath for de-addiction. (ANI) A PhD graduate from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University refused to receive her degree from Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi during the convocation program. The event, held at the V.O.C. Auditorium on the university campus, saw TN Governor R N Ravi, who is also the university chancellor, conferring degrees on students. Of the 37,376 students from 104 affiliated colleges and the university, 759 were present to receive their degrees directly from the Governor, including 650 PhD recipients. As per the usual practice, degrees were handed to students before they went on stage, where the Governor would then personally present them. However, in a surprise move, one student, identified as Jean Joseph from Kottar, Nagercoil, bypassed the Governor and received her degree from Vice-Chancellor Chadrasekar instead. Speaking to the media, Jean Joseph explained that she took the decision because she believes the Governor "has done nothing for Tamil Nadu or the Tamil language." She added, "Many others are more qualified to present degrees such as the Chief Minister or the Education Minister. It should be the student's choice from whom to receive the degree. My fellow students appreciated my decision. If it were wrong, no one would have congratulated me. I don't want to take my degree from someone who does not respect our land, language, and identity." Jean Joseph completed her B.Com at Hindu College, Nagercoil, pursued MCA at Mepco College, Sivakasi, and recently earned her PhD in Human Resource Management from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University. The incident comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between Governor Ravi and the ruling DMK and its allies, who have repeatedly criticised him for his controversial remarks. Notably, Jean Joseph's husband, Rajan, is the district student wing secretary of the DMK. (ANI) Air Chief Marshal AP Singh paid a visit to the family of late Sergeant Surendra Kumar, who laid down his life during Operation Sindoor, in Mehradasi village in Rajasthan's Jhunjhunu. Accompanied by his wife, Sarita Singh, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief on Wednesday met Sgt Kumar's mother, wife and children. Sharing an X post, the Indian Air Force wrote, "Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, along with Mrs Sarita Singh, paid a visit to village Mehradasi in Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, hometown of late Sgt Surendra Kumar, who laid down his life in the line of duty during Op Sindoor. At his home, they met his mother, Mrs Nanu Devi, wife, Mrs Seema and children, Vritika & Daksh." IAF noted Jhujhunu's legacy of services in the armed forces with 21,700 ex-servicemen hailing from the district and 3,552 currently serving in the air forces. "It is worthwhile to mention that Jhunjhunu has a proud legacy of service to the nation, with 21,700 Ex-Servicemen hailing from the district and 3,552 serving Air Warriors in the Indian Air Force," the X post read. Earlier on Wednesday, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh visited the Artificial Limb Centre in Pune and met Corporal Varun Kumar, who suffered injuries during Operation Sindoor. "Chief of the Air Staff visited the Artificial Limb Centre, Pune, wherein he met Cpl Varun Kumar, who suffered injuries during Op Sindoor. He utilised this opportunity to interact with other patients and got briefed on the activities of the centre. CAS appreciated the Commandant, doctors and the staff of Artificial Limb Centre for their excellent service and dedication," IAF wrote on X. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. The Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists. (ANI) Telangana state BJP President N Ramchander Rao welcomed the Supreme Court's decision to transfer the probe of the murder case of a lawyer couple in the state to CBI and reiterated the demand to introduce the "Advocate Protection Act". The apex court on Tuesday transferred the investigation into the 2021 daylight murder of advocate couple Gattu Vaman Rao and his wife, P V Nagamani, in Peddapalli district. The BJP party chief, in a statement issued here on Wednesday, said the verdict is a clear indication of the growing public distrust in the state investigating agencies, and the Apex Court decision would strengthen public faith in the judicial system, besides serving as a strong warning to those who indulge in such attacks on lawyers. The murder of the lawyer couple had raised questions about the safety of lawyers in the state, and a CBI inquiry would bring out the facts of the case and ensure that the perpetrators get strict punishment, he said. Rao said as a former MLC, he had repeatedly demanded that the state government bring the Advocate Protection Act to protect lawyers. But his demand was ignored by the previous government. Urging the Congress government to fulfil its election manifesto promise, Rao demanded that it introduce the Advocate Protection Act in the next assembly session. He further stated that such a law is essential to prevent attacks on lawyers. The BJP chief stated that it was the government's responsibility to protect the legal community, and his party would continue to fight for justice, dignity, and security for lawyers. Gattu Vaman Rao and PV Nagamani were killed in broad daylight on February 17, 2021, on the Manthani-Peddapalli highway in Peddapalli district. The attackers hacked them to death after intercepting their car while they were returning from a court case in Manthani. They had filed several Public Interest Litigations (PILs) against the sand mafia and in custodial death cases. (ANI) In his message on 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day being observed on Thursday, Union Health Minister and BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda called for national unity and "give a befitting reply to anti-national forces" On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. Paying tribute to millions who while "enduring agony of displacement", sacrificed their lives, the senior BJP leader said in a post on X, "The dark day of 1947 reminds us of that cruel event when the citizens of the nation suffered the merciless pain of migration and, enduring inhuman torture, lost their homes, property, and lives." https://x.com/JPNadda/status/1955818971070111744 He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the tradition of observing this day to "keep the memory of the nation's partition alive is an important step toward nation-building." "Come, on this day, let us all citizens unite to pledge to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation and give a befitting reply to anti-national forces," the post added, calling for national unity. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami noted that "This event is not merely a part of history but an eternal anguish etched in our national consciousness". "The line of communal division devastated countless families and wounded the soul of the nation. Deprived of their homes, livelihoods, and memories, millions of families were forced to endure the pain of displacement. This event is not merely a part of history but an eternal anguish etched in our national consciousness," the post read. India is all set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on Friday, August 15. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag on the occasion at the Red Fort in Delhi. (ANI) As India observes the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and External Affairs Minister on Thursday paid tribute to the people who sacrificed their lives during the Partition of India. Sharing an X post, Goyal said that on August 14, 1947, during the Partition of India, people endured the pain of violence, displacement and loss of loved ones. "On this day in the year 1947, people had to endure the pain of violence, displacement, and the loss of loved ones due to the partition. #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay will continue to pay tribute to all those who sacrificed while making future generations aware of the unbearable suffering of the displaced," the Union Minister wrote on X. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted the "far-reaching" human and strategic consequences of the Partition. Jaishankar wrote on X, "The Partition caused immense suffering and had far-reaching human and strategic consequences. On #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, we recall the resilience of those who endured this terrible tragedy. There are many lessons to be learnt from this painful chapter." Earlier today, Union Health Minister and BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda called for national unity and "give a befitting reply to anti-national forces." Paying tribute to millions who while "enduring agony of displacement", sacrificed their lives, the senior BJP leader said in a post on X, "The dark day of 1947 reminds us of that cruel event when the citizens of the nation suffered the merciless pain of migration and, enduring inhuman torture, lost their homes, property, and lives." He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the tradition of observing this day to "keep the memory of the nation's partition alive is an important step toward nation-building." "Come, on this day, let us all citizens unite to pledge to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation and give a befitting reply to anti-national forces," the post added, calling for national unity. On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday paid tribute to the millions affected by India's 1947 partition, remembering the pain, violence, and displacement it caused. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Shah condemned the division of the nation and expressed heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives during this tragic period. In a post on X, Shah wrote, "#PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay is a day to express condolences by remembering the pain of those who suffered due to the partition of the country and its tragedy. On this day, the Congress party divided the nation into pieces, hurting the pride of Mother India. The partition led to violence, exploitation, and atrocities, and millions of people endured displacement." https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1955822016411656573 "I offer my heartfelt tribute to all those people. The country will never forget this history and pain of the partition. I offer my tribute to those who lost their lives in this horror of the partition," the post read. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also paid tribute to the victims of partition. He highlighted the importance of unity, brotherhood, and compassion and honoured those who showed courage in the face of this tragedy. In a post on X, Dharmendra Pradhan wrote, "The day of August 14, 1947, stands as a symbol of deep pain and immense loss in the history of our nation. On this day, personal greed, lust for power, and narrow-mindedness committed the crime of breaking the unity of the country. It was one of the most painful events in human civilisation, in which countless people were separated from their loved ones, their homes, and their homeland. This wound will always remind us how destructive the consequences of hatred and animosity can be. 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' inspires us to make unity, brotherhood, and compassion the foundation of life." https://x.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1955821591113425219 "Today, on 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day,' I pay tribute to all those immortal souls and displaced families who, despite enduring the pain of this tragedy, showed the courage to move forward in life," the post read. On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. India is all set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag on the occasion at the Red Fort in Delhi. (ANI) Observing Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid a tribute to the people who endured the "upheaval and pain" of the Partition of India. Sharing an X post, PM Modi called the Partition a "tragic chapter" of Indian history. "India observes #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grit...their ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh," PM Modi wrote. Giving a message on unity, he urged the public to strengthen the harmony in the country. The Prime Minister wrote, "Many of those affected went on to rebuild their lives and achieve remarkable milestones. This day is also a reminder of our enduring responsibility to strengthen the bonds of harmony that hold our country together." Earlier today, Union Health Minister and BJP President Jagat Prakash Nadda called for national unity and "give a befitting reply to anti-national forces." Paying tribute to millions who while "enduring agony of displacement", sacrificed their lives, the senior BJP leader said in a post on X, "The dark day of 1947 reminds us of that cruel event when the citizens of the nation suffered the merciless pain of migration and, enduring inhuman torture, lost their homes, property, and lives." He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the tradition of observing this day to "keep the memory of the nation's partition alive is an important step toward nation-building." "Come, on this day, let us all citizens unite to pledge to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation and give a befitting reply to anti-national forces," the post added, calling for national unity. On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. India attained its freedom from British rule on 15th August, 1947. Independence Day, which is celebrated on 15th August every year, is a joyous and proud occasion for any nation; however, with the sweetness of freedom came also the trauma of partition. The birth of the newly independent Indian nation was accompanied by violent pangs of partition that left permanent scars on millions of Indians. The partition caused amongst the largest migrations in human history affecting about 20 million people. Millions of families had to abandon their ancestral villages/towns/cities and were forced to find a new life as refugees. The pain and violence of partition has remained deeply etched in the nation's memory. While celebrating our Independence, a grateful nation also salutes those sons and daughters of our beloved motherland who had to sacrifice their lives in the frenzy of violence. (ANI) The Uttarakhand Cabinet has approved the Uttarakhand Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2025, with provisions for stringent penalties on illegal conversion, ban on propaganda through digital media and protection of victims of religious conversion, a statement by the Uttarakhand CMO said. The Bill was approved in the state cabinet meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. According to the CMO, the Bill includes a broad definition of inducement - gifts, cash/goods benefits, employment, free education, promises of marriage, hurting religious sentiments, or glorifying another religion - all included in the category of crime. The Bill bans "propaganda and incitement for conversion" through social media, messaging apps or any online medium. It defines strict punishment for the cases involved under the law, with 3-10 years imprisonment for general violation, 5-14 years in cases related to sensitive sections, 20 years to life imprisonment in serious cases and a heavy fine, the CMO said. The law strictly punishes marriage by hiding religion, and for the rights of the victim, it involves the provision of protection, rehabilitation, medical, travel and maintenance expenses. The state government said that this law will protect the religious rights of citizens, prevent conversion by fraud, inducement or pressure and maintain social harmony. Meanwhile, the Uttarakhand government has extended the time limit for exemption of marriage registration fee of Rs 250 under the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Rules till January 26, 2026. This decision has been taken by the government in public interest, further to 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 June 6, 2025 for marriage registration is extended till January 26, 2026, with the aim of further encouraging the participation of citizens for marriage registration. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday paid tribute to the people who endured "horrific consequences" following the partition of India in 1947. As India observes the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Rajnath Singh recalled the hatred and violence and called Partition a "painful chapter". Sharing an X post, the Union Minister wrote, "On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, recalling that painful chapter of 1947, I pay tribute to all those brothers and sisters who had to endure the horrific consequences of hatred and violence following India's partition and witnessed the loss of life and property." https://x.com/rajnathsingh/status/1955836419416711454 He added that the government is committed to strengthening social harmony in the country. "Even today, every Indian feels empathy for those affected families. We are fully committed to further strengthening social harmony in the country," he wrote. Earlier today, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to the millions affected by the Partition in 1947, remembering the pain, violence, and displacement it caused. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Shah condemned the division of the nation and expressed heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives during this tragic period. In a post on X, Shah wrote, "#PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay is a day to express condolences by remembering the pain of those who suffered due to the partition of the country and its tragedy. On this day, the Congress party divided the nation into pieces, hurting the pride of Mother India. The partition led to violence, exploitation, and atrocities, and millions of people endured displacement." "I offer my heartfelt tribute to all those people. The country will never forget the history and pain of the partition. I offer my tribute to those who lost their lives in this horror of the partition," the post read. On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. (ANI) This team of experts included Shantanu Sarkar, Director of Uttarakhand Landslide Mitigation and Management Center (ULMMC), Dr DP Kanungo, Chief Scientist of Central Building Research Institute Roorkee (CBRI), Ravi Negi, Director of Geological Survey of India (GSI), Dr Amit Kumar, scientist of Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology and Mohit Kumar, Principal Advisor of ULMMC. This team of experts visited many places in the affected area and conducted a comprehensive on-the-spot investigation of the damage caused by the disaster, its nature and causes. While the Uttarkashi District Administration in Uttarakhand 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 5 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. 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. (ANI) Amid the debate over the Supreme Court's ruling on stray dogs in Delhi, animal rights activist & BJP leader Maneka Gandhi urged the Chief Justice of India to review the decision with love and mentioned that "our goals are the same. While talking to ANI, Maenka Gandhi highlighted that removing the dogs from the region is not enough and added, "...Nobody favours the ill-treatment of animals. They believe that if animals are taken away, their children would not be bitten. I agree with that. But the animals would not go away. If we remove 3 lakh animals from Delhi, 3 lakh more would come in within a week from Ghaziabad and Faridabad. If those additional 3 lakh are removed, more would come in because there is abundant food in Delhi." She addressed the illegal chicken centres and unlicensed shops, asking for a better system to address these issues as well in order to deal with the stray dog problem. "You have more than 50,000 illegal chicken centres in Delhi. You have meat shops that function without a license. So, the law should come into effect for that too. Otherwise, it would never end..." Gandhi urged the CJI to review the decision with love and added, "I would want the CJI to review it with love and see what the best way is, because our goal is the same. We too want fewer dogs, we want no biting, and we want humans and dogs & every animal to live in peace..." Following the criticism, the Supreme Court on Wednesday 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. Earlier on August 11, the apex court 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, 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. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party MP Nishikant Dubey on Thursday urged the Centre to take action regarding the Panama Papers and Paradise Papers cases and "expose the faces hidden behind the mask." "British Prime Minister Cameron accepted that what is written in the Panama Papers is true. Indian Government should take action through @IncomeTaxIndia and @dir_ed (Enforcement Directorate) regarding Panama Papers and Paradise Papers and expose the faces hidden behind the mask," Dubey said in a post on X. https://x.com/nishikant_dubey/status/1955808217826766859 The Panama Papers pertain to leaked documents that point towards fraud and tax evasion by many individuals and corporate entities across the world. This data was released by a German newspaper, 'Suddeutsche Zeitung', under the title of 'Panama Papers' on 3rd April 2016. It had around 500 Indian names, including several Bollywood personalities such as Amitabh Bachchan, his daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai, actor Ajay Devgn, and businessman Vijay Mallya. All these people were accused of tax fraud. After the name surfaced in this case, Amitabh had said that he had sent money abroad only under Indian rules. He also denied having any affiliation with the companies that appeared in the Panama Papers. The 'Paradise Papers' leak, dubbed as the second largest data leak in history after Panama Papers, claims that some 714 Indians allegedly have offshore accounts in tax havens, landing India in the 19th rank out of 180 countries in terms of the number of names in the data. Paradise Papers include nearly seven million loan agreements, financial statements, emails, trust deeds and other paperwork over nearly 50 years from inside Appleby, a prestigious offshore law firm with offices in Bermuda and beyond. The leaked documents include files from the smaller, family-owned trust company, Asiaciti (Singapore), and from company registries in 19 secrecy jurisdictions. In 2017, then Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had said that the investigation into the Paradise Papers leak would be done on the lines of the Panama Papers probe. In 2021, the Enforcement Directorate had questioned Bollywood actor Aishwarya Rai Bachchan for nearly 5 hours in the Panama Papers leak case. The ED had recorded the statement of the actor in the case over allegations of stashing wealth abroad under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999. She had earlier submitted records on the foreign payments under investigation. The ED had issued notices to the Bachchan family asking them to explain their foreign remittances since 2004 under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) of the Reserve Bank of India. (ANI) According to the preliminary investigation, the accused fled to Nepal after committing a murder and returned to commit a crime in Punjab. The AGTF has recovered one Glock nine mm pistol and six live cartridges, and registered an FIR at the Sahibzada Ajit Singh (SAS) Nagar Police Station. Sharing an X post, Punjab DGP wrote, "In a major breakthrough, Anti Gangster Task Force (#AGTF) Punjab, arrests two most-wanted Lawrence Bishnoi gang operatives from #Patiala-#Ambala Highway near Village Shambhu. Preliminary investigation reveals that they fled to #Nepal after committing the murder & returned on directions of foreign-based handlers to commit a sensational crime in Punjab." "Recovery: 1 Glock 9mm pistol & 6 live cartridges. FIR registered at PS State Crime, SAS Nagar," the X post added. According to the police official, over 15 heinous crime cases are registered against the accused in different states. DGP Punjab wrote, "Both the accused have extensive criminal history and over 15 heinous crime cases registered against them in #Punjab, #Delhi, #Rajasthan & #Gujarat, including under various criminal Acts. They were also wanted in the recent murder of Bharat Ratan @ Vicky in #Fazilka." "@PunjabPoliceInd remains committed to dismantling organised crime networks," the X post read. Earlier on Wednesday, the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police busted 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 social media platform X, said the arrests have dealt a major blow to drug-arms smugglers in the region, preventing further distribution of narcotics and curbing illegal arms circulation. It further said that the Punjab Police remains committed to eliminating the drug menace and keeping the State safe. (ANI) As the nation gears up to celebrate the 79th Independence Day on Friday, security forces have been deployed at four areas, including Doda, Bhaderwah, to ensure that "no one with ill intent disturb the peaceful atmosphere," a police officer said. Senior Superintendent of Police Doda, Sandeep Mehta, told ANI, "From a security point of view, we have four main venues, namely Doda, Bhaderwah, Thathri, and Gandoh. The Tricolour is hoisted at around 142 locations... We have made deployments under a well-designed Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that no one with ill intent will be allowed to disturb the peaceful atmosphere... Without mentioning Pakistan, the officer said that, "Our neighbouring country always tries to disrupt peace and communal harmony... I urge that if you notice any suspicious movement, inform the police immediately. The Jammu & Kashmir Police and Indian Army stand united to protect you." Visuals accessed by ANI showed special checkpoints being established at key entry and exit routes, where vehicles are being thoroughly checked, and the identity of passengers is being verified in Bhaderwah . Army patrols have also been intensified in sensitive areas. Meanwhile, the Indian Army has deployed a three-tiered robotic counter-infiltration grid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar village of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. Speaking to ANI on Thursday, an Indian Army officer said that the troops are tasked with ensuring zero infiltration along the LoC. "Our task as the troops deployed on the ground is to establish, maintain and ensure zero infiltration and establish a zero infiltration grid in this area... We do that in three layers," the Army officer said. Describing the three-tier grid, he said that the first layer of defence is the surveillance equipment, including radars, thermal imaging sites, weapon and helmet-mounted sites, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). He said, "We use the plethora of surveillance equipment which has been given to us by the government of India, including radars, various thermal imaging sites, weapon and helmet-mounted sites, and UAVs." The Army official added that the second layer is the obstacle system, which includes mines. "Number two is the obstacle system, which we have incorporated into our defences. We have placed various types of mines and optical systems throughout the entire area of responsibility," he told ANI. The third layer is the army personnel on the ground involved in routine ambushes and patrolling. He said, "Number three is us, the men on the ground... We ensure that we send out routine ambushes and patrols to dominate the entire area either physically, by observation, or by fire." (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh on Thursday said that a "comprehensive discussion" is underway in the state's assembly to outline a strategic plan for the state's growth. A 24-hour discussion on the 'Vision Document 2047' began on Wednesday in the Uttar Pradesh assembly, with the state government reaffirming its goal of making Uttar Pradesh the most developed state in the country by 2047, targeting zero poverty, world-class infrastructure, and advanced technology. Speaking with ANI, Swatantra Dev Singh said, "Vision 2047 is about a developed India, self-reliant India, developed Uttar Pradesh, self-reliant Uttar Pradesh, meaning what will be the condition of the country by 2047. Comprehensive discussions are taking place in the House, and under the leadership of PM Modi and Yogi Adityanath, Uttar Pradesh will become a developed state, and you can see it today as well," the UP Minister said. Swatantra Dev Singh lauded the BJP-led government's law and order in the state. "In the last 8 years, the rule of law has prevailed...Over the past 8 years, significant changes have occurred, including the absence of riots, hooliganism, and corruption, which have contributed to the development." State's Jal Shakti Minister said that the discussion will result in the formation of a committee and a booklet to prepare a roadmap for 2047, outlining the strategy to achieve the goal of a developed state. "A booklet will be created from the discussions, and a committee will be formed to deliberate. Following their deliberations, a roadmap for 2047 will be prepared, outlining the timeline and approach for achieving this goal. The Finance Minister has given this responsibility to the Chief Minister. Discussions are ongoing about where we will take the country by 2047," he said. However, Congress leader Aradhna Singh said that the discussion is more focused on listing the "shortcomings" of the previous government rather than outlining a vision for 2047. "The way the government's side, whether ministers or their members, is being presented, they are only listing the shortcomings of previous governments or talking about their current schemes; nowhere is their vision for the future visible," she said. She also alleged that the UP government is avoiding discussion on a strategy to provide employment, increase GDP and give relief to farmers. "They are not discussing how they will provide employment to the youth in the future, how they will increase Uttar Pradesh's GDP... or how farmers will get relief, there is no discussion on these matters... The government is holding this discussion just to set its own record. The opposition is asking every question to the government, but the government has no answers," Aradhana Mishra said. (ANI) Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Thursday said Partition Horrors Remembrance Day makes us "eternally vigilant" to defend the 'integrity of Bharat' from "disrupting forces" of outside and also from "within" and noted how "friends could become foes?" In a post on X, Pawan Kalyan noted, "Hearing painful and horrific stories from partition times make us to dwell deeply into human nature. How neighbors could become blood thirsty killers and friends could become foes?!" https://x.com/PawanKalyan/status/1955845179945976289 "Under the prudent and resilient Leadership of Hon. PM Shri @narendramodi ji, a 'New Bharat' is shaping up, which is responsible , vigilant and decisive," he pointed out while responding to an earlier tweet of PM Modi posted on the occasion. "The #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay is very essential to each and every individual of our Nation to be aware of at what cost freedom was achieved . And that makes us to be eternally vigilant to defend the 'integrity of Bharat' from disrupting forces of outside and also from within" Earlier in the day, observing Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid a tribute to the people who endured the "upheaval and pain" of the Partition of India. Sharing an X post, PM Modi called the Partition a "tragic chapter" of Indian history. "India observes #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay, remembering the upheaval and pain endured by countless people during that tragic chapter of our history. It is also a day to honour their grit...their ability to face unimaginable loss and still find the strength to start afresh," PM Modi wrote. Giving a message on unity, he urged the public to strengthen the harmony in the country. The Prime Minister wrote, "Many of those affected went on to rebuild their lives and achieve remarkable milestones. This day is also a reminder of our enduring responsibility to strengthen the bonds of harmony that hold our country together." (ANI) Personnel of CRP's 33 Battalion stationed in Bhaderwah held a massive Tiranga Rally to mark the Har Ghar Tiranga Campaign ahead of the 79th Independence Day. Commandant, CRPF, Arun Kumar, at the Tiranga rally, mentioned that the school students and teachers are also a part of this rally. "Tiranga rallies are being organised across the country. In the rally organised by the CRPF's 33 Battalion, school students and teachers are taking part. We assure the citizens of the nation that we are here to protect them," said Arun Kumar. Meanwhile, security forces have been deployed at four areas, including Doda and Bhaderwah, to ensure that "no one will disturb the peaceful atmosphere with ill intent," a police officer said. Senior Superintendent of Police Doda, Sandeep Mehta, told ANI, "From a security point of view, we have four main venues, namely Doda, Bhaderwah, Thathri, and Gandoh. The Tricolour is hoisted at around 142 locations... We have made deployments under a well-designed Standard Operating Procedures to ensure that no one with ill intent will be allowed to disturb the peaceful atmosphere... Without mentioning Pakistan, the officer said that, "Our neighbouring country always tries to disrupt peace and communal harmony... I urge you to inform the police immediately if you notice any suspicious movement. The Jammu & Kashmir Police and Indian Army stand united to protect you." Visuals accessed by ANI showed special checkpoints being established at key entry and exit routes, where vehicles are being thoroughly checked, and the identity of passengers is being verified in Bhaderwah. Army patrols have also been intensified in sensitive areas. In addition to this, from Himalayan valleys to coastal towns, the national tricolour fluttered high on Wednesday as millions joined the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. Leaders, students, and citizens took part in spirited Tiranga Yatras, rallies, and flag-hoisting ceremonies across the country, turning the campaign into a nationwide celebration of unity, pride, and patriotism in the run-up to India's 79th Independence Day. (ANI) The Kerala Higher Education Department has issued a directive prohibiting the observance of the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day in colleges across the state. In an email circular, the department stated that such events could disturb communal harmony and foster religious rivalry. Universities have been instructed to notify all affiliated colleges to comply with the order urgently. Reacting to the directive, SFI State Secretary PS Sanjeev said that the SFI will oppose the event wherever it is held. College units have been instructed to prevent such programmes. Meanwhile, at the Central University of Kerala in Kasaragod, the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day was observed early this morning at 12:30 AM under the leadership of ABVP National Executive Member Abhinav Thooneri. The university has decided to mark the entire day as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day. Earlier, Kerala University Vice-Chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal had issued a circular to affiliated colleges, instructing them to observe August 14 as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day and organise events, including a programme in the Senate Hall. The directive followed Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar''s instruction to universities in the state to conduct special programmes on August 14 to commemorate the horrors of the Partition. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the Governor''s directive "unconstitutional". He said that the state would not allow a "divisive agenda" on campuses. Sharing an X post, Vijayan wrote, "August 15 is a reminder of India''s anti-imperialist struggle and the brutalities unleashed by the British to suppress it. The Sangh Parivar, which had no role in the freedom movement and served the British Raj, now seeks to undermine Independence Day by promoting divisive agendas. The Governor''s directive to universities to observe August 14 as "Partition Horror Day" is unconstitutional and unacceptable. Kerala will never allow its campuses to be turned into stages for their divisive agenda." (ANI) Ahead of the Assembly elections in Bihar, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday announced the launch of "VoterAdhikarYatra" against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and called on people to "join this people's movement" Making the announcement in a post on X, the Congress MP said, "From August 17, with #VoterAdhikarYatra, we are launching a direct fight against vote theft from the soil of Bihar" The announcement came amid the continuous protests by the INDIA bloc leaders and amid its campaign of alleged "vote chori" (vote theft). "This is not just an election issue - it is a decisive battle to protect democracy, the constitution, and the principle of 'one man, one vote.' We will ensure a clean voter list across the entire country. Youth, workers, farmers - every citizen, rise and join this people's movement. This time, the defeat of vote thieves - the victory of the people, the victory of the constitution" https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1955853026461356124 Meanwhile earlier, 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 month. 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 earlier. (ANI) As India marks Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath slammed the Congress, blaming the party for India's partition. "Many of our country's revolutionaries and freedom fighters were hanged on the gallows. The freedom fighters of the country were subjected to inhuman tortures, but in 1947, when we gained independence, just a day before it, the Congress leadership, in the height of appeasement, had the country partitioned," Adityanath said in a press conference. "The riots that erupted in undivided India (Just before India's partition) were among the worst atrocities in the world. In Western Pakistan, whether in Karachi or Lahore, there were systematic campaigns to eliminate Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists from those areas. This occurred due to the Congress leadership at the time, which pursued a policy of appeasement," he said. Earlier in the day, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the people who endured "horrific consequences" following the partition of India in 1947. As India observes the Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Rajnath Singh recalled the hatred and violence and called Partition a "painful chapter". Sharing an X post, the Union Minister wrote, "On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, recalling that painful chapter of 1947, I pay tribute to all those brothers and sisters who had to endure the horrific consequences of hatred and violence following India's partition and witnessed the loss of life and property." He added that the government is committed to strengthening social harmony in the country. "Even today, every Indian feels empathy for those affected families. We are fully committed to further strengthening social harmony in the country," he wrote. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to the millions affected by the Partition in 1947, remembering the pain, violence, and displacement it caused. On Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Shah condemned the division of the nation and expressed heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives during this tragic period. In a post on X, Shah wrote, "#PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay is a day to express condolences by remembering the pain of those who suffered due to the partition of the country and its tragedy. On this day, the Congress party divided the nation into pieces, hurting the pride of Mother India. The partition led to violence, exploitation, and atrocities, and millions of people endured displacement." "I offer my heartfelt tribute to all those people. The country will never forget the history and pain of the partition. I offer my tribute to those who lost their lives in this horror of the partition," the post read. On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. (ANI) The Assam Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday officially launched the arms licence services but clarified that the government will "only provide an arms licence" but "will not give arms". This initiative aims to provide a sense of security to vulnerable populations and empower them to defend themselves if needed. "We have officially launched the arms licence services as a citizen service under the Sewa Setu portal. Under this scheme, the indigenous people of the state living in bordering vulnerable areas will be able to apply for an arms licence... The government will not give arms. The government will only provide an arms licence," Assam CM told reporters here. The goal of this initiative is to provide a sense of security to indigenous communities facing threats and vulnerabilities, particularly in regions with a history of ethnic or communal tensions, and demographic changes have posed a threat to the indigenous people of the state. The state government has carried out a massive eviction drive against illegal encroachers in various parts of the state and freed over 1.29 lakh bighas of government land and forest land. By empowering these communities to defend themselves, the government aims to maintain peace and stability in the region.The process of granting an arms licence includes security assessment, verification and vetting, compliance with existing laws, non-transferability, periodic review, monitoring & and reporting. To be eligible for an arms license, applicants must be original inhabitants or indigenous Indian citizens of Assam, perceive a genuine threat to life and safety due to the vulnerability of their area of residence and reside in a vulnerable or remote area, as notified by the District Administration or assessed by authorised security agencies. The process of granting arms licenses involves a thorough security assessment, detailed background checks and verification of credentials, compliance with existing arms laws and regulations, non-transferability of licenses, regular review of license holders to ensure continued eligibility, and ongoing monitoring and reporting to prevent misuse. (ANI) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath tore into the Congress on Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, calling the 1947 Partition a "dark chapter" born out of appeasement politics that shattered Sanatan Bharat's unity and inflicted deep wounds on the nation, a press release said. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with reviving this forgotten history by declaring the day in 2021. "Today, the entire country mourns, remembering the horrors of August 14, 1947," he said. The Chief Minister made the statement while inaugurating an exhibition marking 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day'. He toured the exhibition and urged citizens to draw lessons from history. Through digital archives, rare photographs, newspaper clippings, state records, and preserved belongings of displaced families, the exhibition vividly depicts the price of appeasement and the agony of those affected by the Partition-era violence. According to the press release, CM Yogi recalled that while revolutionaries willingly embraced martyrdom for India's freedom, Congress divided the nation in its greed for power. He alleged that the Congress's policies led to the ethnic cleansing of Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists from places like Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Multan in West Pakistan. He added, "The violence claimed 15-20 lakh lives and displaced crores, marking one of the darkest episodes in history." He further accused the then Congress government of showing complete apathy towards the displaced. "No memorials were built, no museums established for Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Christians who were forced to leave their ancestral homes. Their suffering was erased from public memory," he said. In contrast, he praised Prime Minister Modi for granting citizenship and rehabilitation rights to refugees through the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), noting that, for the first time, displaced people in Jammu & Kashmir and other regions received citizenship and began contributing to India's development. "Congress never made any sincere effort for their rehabilitation," he added. Paying homage to the victims, CM Yogi announced that the Uttar Pradesh government will provide land leases and full rehabilitation to eligible families under the CAA. "We are committed to protecting their rights and ensuring their dignity," he affirmed. Emphasising the importance of connecting the younger generation with history, CM Yogi said the exhibition portrays the grim reality of Partition, its massacres, riots, and forced migrations. He added that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, this initiative is both healing old wounds and awakening future generations to historical truths, the release said. Several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Cabinet Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, and BJP State President Bhupendra Chaudhary, attended the event. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ravi Shankar Prasad said on Thursday that Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, who earlier in the day announced the launch of "VoterAdhikarYatra", against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar, is "frustrated". He linked his "frustration" with Prime Minister Narendra Modi assuming the office in 2014. Prasad told ANI, "... Rahul Gandhi is a person who abuses someone and then runs away... He is frustrated because he thinks that his family has a contract to run the country, so where did PM Modi come from?" Earlier in the day, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi announced the launch of "VoterAdhikarYatra" against the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and called on people to "join this people's movement" Making the announcement in a post on X, the Congress MP said, "From August 17, with #VoterAdhikarYatra, we are launching a direct fight against vote theft from the soil of Bihar." The announcement came amid the continuous protests by the INDIA bloc leaders and amid its campaign of alleged "vote chori" (vote theft). "This is not just an election issue - it is a decisive battle to protect democracy, the constitution, and the principle of 'one man, one vote.' We will ensure a clean voter list across the entire country. Youth, workers, farmers - every citizen, rise and join this people's movement. This time, the defeat of vote thieves - the victory of the people, the victory of the constitution" Meanwhile earlier, 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. (ANI) Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay on Thursday slammed the Chief Minister MK Stalin-led DMK government in Tamil Nadu for what he described as "inhumane and anarchic" arrest of protesting sanitation workers.in Chennai. "Condemn the fascist DMK government for arresting sanitation workers, who have been peacefully fighting for their rights, in an inhumane and anarchic manner in the dead of night!" Vijay said in a post on X. Chennai police on Wednesday night detained sanitation workers who had been protesting for 13 consecutive days outside the Greater Chennai Corporation's Ripon Building, following a Madras High Court order to clear the protest site. Vijay said that reports had emerged that women sanitation workers fainted during the arrests, where they were dragged away brutally, and they had also sustained severe injuries. "Witnessing this midnight arrest operation, it is evident that violence has been unleashed on women to an extent that no one with a conscience can bear. Immediate medical assistance and treatment must be provided to the injured, and necessary measures should be taken promptly to safeguard their health," he said. "The arrested sanitation workers have been detained in various locations, unable to contact their families or access any form of assistance. To detain them in a way that prevents even communication with their families--are sanitation workers anti-national elements? Does the ruling government have even a shred of conscience? Looking at this cruel action, it becomes crystal clear that what is happening in Tamil Nadu is not democracy but tyranny," the TVK leader said. Vijay said that the sanitation workers were protesting to demand the fulfilment of promises made by the DMK when it was in the opposition. "Why have you still not fulfilled those promises? If you are unable to fulfil the promises you made, why do you make such promises in the first place? The sanitation workers arrested in an anarchic manner must be released immediately. An alternative space must be provided for them to continue their protest and raise their demands," asked Vijay. Around 800 sanitation workers, opposing the civic body's move to privatise waste management in two zones, were forcibly removed around midnight and taken away in buses within 45 minutes. For the 13th consecutive day, hundreds of sanitation workers employed under the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM) protested in front of Ripon Building, demanding a rollback of the GCC's decision to privatise solid waste management services in Zones 5 and 6. The workers claimed that the move threatened their job security, livelihoods, and exposed them to exploitation by private agencies. Earlier, the GCC had announced plans to outsource waste management in Royapuram (Zone 5) and Thiru-Vi-Ka Nagar (Zone 6) from August 1. These were among the last remaining zones under direct GCC control, with 10 out of Chennai's 15 zones already managed by private contractors such as Spain-based Urbaser-Sumeet and Andhra Pradesh-based Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd (REEL). The workers condemned the outsourcing, demanded permanent employment, and insisted that sanitation work continue under the NULM scheme. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of Kannada actor Darshan Thogudeepa in the Renukaswamy murder case. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan quashed the interim bail granted to Darshan by the Karnataka High Court, stating that the bail was granted without adequate consideration of the witness intimidation and other illegalities. The Karnataka government had filed a plea in the apex court against Darshan's bail order. Welcoming the decision, Advocate DL Chidananda, representing the State government in the case, said the SC stated that the Karnataka HC's decision did not follow the principles of granting bail. Advocate Chidananda told ANI, "The Supreme Court said that the High Court has not followed the principles of law which apply for granting bail. It also reiterated that the rule of law prevails in the country and, however influential an individual may be, they must be treated in accordance with the law." Congress leader Rizwan Arshad said that the State government has built up a "crystal clear" case against the actor, so they had to appeal against the Karnataka HC's order. "They have built up a crystal clear case. Despite that, he got bail... As a government, we had to appeal against the bail, and that's what we did," Arshad said. Karnataka Chief Minister's legal advisor, AS Ponnanna, said that granting Darshan bail would have hampered the investigation and trial. He said, "The state government and the prosecution agency were vindicated... It was the state government's decision that, in a case like this, where a serious offence has been registered, granting him bail would hamper the investigation and trial, as he is a powerful person. They did not want him to use his muscle to derail the prosecution's case." Darshan was named in the chargesheet in the Renukaswamy murder case, where the 33-year-old resident of Chitradurga was murdered. The victim's remains were discovered in Bengaluru's Kamakshipalya on June 9, 2024. (ANI) The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president, KT Rama Rao, on social media platform X, hailed the Supreme Court order, which declared the election of two Members of the Legislative Councils (MLCs) appointed by Congress under the Governor's quota as invalid. "The sensational verdict by the Supreme Court, the highest judicial authority in the country, declaring the election of two MLCs appointed by Congress under the Governor's quota as invalid, has dealt a blow to both the BJP and Congress. "In the past, when the BJP misused the Governor's 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," wrote KT Rama Rao on his X post on Wednesday. Writing further in the post, he mentioned that the true nature of Congress and the BJP is exposed once again. "The true nature of Congress and BJP has once again been exposed, as they obstructed the candidatures of Dasoju Shravan and Satyanarayana, who belong to marginalised and weaker sections, previously nominated by the BRS. We, on behalf of the BRS, bow our heads and salute the honourable judiciary, which has declared that the undemocratic practices of these two Delhi-based parties, showing no respect for the Constitution, will not be tolerated. Jai Telangana," read Rao's X post. The Supreme Court on Wednesday stayed the appointment of two persons, Professor M Kodandaram and journalist Amer Ali Khan, as Members of the Legislative Council (MLC) in Telangana. These appointments were made under the Governor's quota. A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta modified its earlier order from August 2024, which had stayed a Telangana High Court decision that quashed the nominations made by the Governor during the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government's tenure. The BRS, formerly the ruling party, is now in opposition in the state. The Court has now clarified that any MLC appointments in Telangana cannot be made until the case has been disposed of. In August 2023, the then BRS-led government recommended the names of Dasoju Sravan and Kurra Satyanarayana for nomination to the Legislative Council. However, then-Governor rejected these recommendations, citing the political background of the nominees. In their place, the Governor nominated Professor Kodandaram and Amer Ali Khan. This move was challenged in court by the original BRS nominees. In March 2024, the Telangana High Court quashed both the Governor's rejection of Sravan and Satyanarayana and the subsequent nominations of Kodandaram and Khan. The High Court had also ordered that the previous status quo be maintained. Despite the High Court's ruling, the Congress-led government in Telangana, which came to power after the BRS, reaffirmed the nominations of Kodandaram and Khan. This led to further legal challenges from the BRS leaders, arguing that the original nominees were wrongly rejected. The appointments of Kodandaram and Khan have been stayed by the High Court until the final disposal of the case. (ANI) ISLAMABAD, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday congratulated the people on the 78th anniversary of national independence, urging unity, economic stability, and commitment to defending national sovereignty. In his message, Sharif paid tribute to Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and leaders of the independence movement, crediting their vision and determination for turning the dream of an independent homeland into reality. He stated that over the past 78 years, Pakistan has faced numerous challenges but also achieved milestones in various fields, including the economy, sports, defense, and technology. The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peaceful coexistence and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. He stressed that, like military strength, a stable economy is essential for safeguarding sovereignty, and called on all political parties and segments of society to unite for national progress. The Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, heard a plea seeking directions to the Centre for the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The court noted that the ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be ignored while granting statehood and said that the events in Pahalgam cannot be overlooked. Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, while listening to the plea, said, "You cannot ignore what happened in Pahalgam." Meanwhile, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, requested eight weeks to obtain government instructions on the issue, noting that the government had assured statehood after elections, but a peculiar situation exists. Congress MLA and petitioner for J&K statehood in SC, Irfan Hafeez Lone, commented on the recent development and noted, " We are neither going to stop, bow down, or get tired. Whenever the BJP is afraid, they send the police forward. This is Gandhi's country. We will continue our fight." Jammu and Kashmir Congress President also shared his remarks, stating that the Supreme Court directed the Centre to conduct elections in the Union Territory and restore statehood, out of which only one direction has been fulfilled. Tariq Hamid Karra, while talking to ANI, said, "The Supreme Court is currently following a procedure in a case related to the abrogation of Article 370, where it previously directed the government to hold elections and restore statehood in the region at the earliest. The court has sought a response from the government on why statehood has not yet been restored, in line with its earlier directives." He commented on the statement made by the CJI on the Pahalgam attack and said that the government has glorified the boost in tourism in Kashmir during the G20 meeting. He stated, "Elections have historically been held in Jammu and Kashmir even during periods of militancy, managed successfully by state governments. The government's response will clarify the situation." He also noted that the fight for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir statehood is on the legal and political front and said, "Meanwhile, political movements, including a hunger strike by Congress and a petition filed by Omar Abdullah, are ongoing separately from the legal battle." Earlier, a plea was filed by college teacher Zahoor Ahmed Bhat and activist Khurshaid Ahmad Malik, where the applications stated that despite the assurance given by the Solicitor General that Jammu and Kashmir's statehood will be restored, the Union has not taken any steps in that regard in the years after the judgment in the Article 370 case. The application was filed through advocate Soyaib Qureshi in the disposed of case of abrogation of Article 370, in which the Supreme Court upheld the abrogation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. "The applicants, being the conscious citizens of Jammu and Kashmir are aggrieved that, even after passing of 10 months of the order dated August 11, 2023, till date no steps have been taken to restore the status of statehood of Jammu and Kashmir as a state which is gravely affecting the rights of the inhabitants of Jammu and Kashmir and also violating the basic structure of federalism; and it is for that reason that the applicants have preferred the present application to seek appropriate directions to the Union of India for restoration of the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir in a time-bound manner within a period of two months," stated the application. "If directions to restore the status of the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir are not passed at the earliest by this court, it would lead to grave harm being caused to the federal structure of the country," it added. Referring to the polls held in Jammu and Kashmir, the application stated that the formation of the Legislative Assembly before the restoration of statehood would violate the idea of federalism, which forms part of the basic structure of the Constitution of India. Since the assembly elections were conducted peacefully, there would be no security concerns in case the apex court passed a direction to restore statehood to the Union Territory within a time-bound period, it submitted. It was also contended that the conversion of the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories has resulted in Jammu and Kashmir being given a lesser form of elected democratic government, which will soon be formed once the results of the Legislative Assembly are declared. It added, "If the status of statehood is not restored to Jammu and Kashmir in a time-bound manner, grave prejudice would be caused to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, also leading to the violation of their fundamental rights and also gravely affecting the democratic structure of Jammu and Kashmir and its territorial integrity." For Jammu and Kashmir, which has always had a federal relationship with the Union of India, it is of utmost importance that the status of statehood is restored "so that they can enjoy an autonomy in their identity and also play an important part in the overall development of the Country", the application added. On December 11, 2023, a five-judge Constitution bench had unanimously upheld the validity of the Union government's 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, while pointing out that Article 370 is a "temporary provision". The top court had taken into note Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's submission that the Statehood of Jammu and Kashmir will be restored, except for the Union Territory of Ladakh. It had directed that steps shall be taken by the Election Commission of India to conduct elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024. (ANI) Preparations are underway for actor Vijay-led political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's (TVK) second State conference to be held on August 21, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. TVK will be contesting the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections for the first time. The state elections are scheduled to be held in 2026. On Wednesday, the party president Vijay launched 'Now TVK '- an exclusive application for the party membership drive. Addressing the launch of the application, the actor turned politician, Vijay, had said, "2026 elections would be similar to two big elections that are 1967 & 1977 in Tamil Nadu Politics," noting that in both elections, "newcomers have won, opposing the power and influence who have been winning elections continuously." Quoting DMK founder C.N. Annadurai, he advised party workers to "go to people, live with them, learn from them and plan along with people." "If we do this, that would be enough. In the concept of 'Tamil Nadu in Victory Rally' by going to each town, street and house, we can definitely win by uniting all families as our party members," he added. In 1967, Annadurai contested the Madras state election after founding DMK that year and was elected as the CM. Similarly, in 1977, MG Ramachandran contested the election after forming AIADMK, a breakaway section of DMK. However, unlike Vijay, both leaders had years of experience in politics. Vijay only launched himself in the state politics in 2004. Meanwhile, Vijay on Thursday slammed the Chief Minister MK Stalin-led DMK government in Tamil Nadu for what he described as "inhumane and anarchic" arrest of protesting sanitation workers in Chennai. "Condemn the fascist DMK government for arresting sanitation workers, who have been peacefully fighting for their rights, in an inhumane and anarchic manner in the dead of night!" Vijay said in a post on X. Chennai police on Wednesday night detained sanitation workers who had been protesting for 13 consecutive days outside the Greater Chennai Corporation's Ripon Building, following a Madras High Court order to clear the protest site. "Witnessing this midnight arrest operation, it is evident that violence has been unleashed on women to an extent that no one with a conscience can bear. Immediate medical assistance and treatment must be provided to the injured, and necessary measures should be taken promptly to safeguard their health," he said. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Thursday sought a response from the Centre and nine States, including the Union Territory of Delhi, to a plea challenging the alleged detention and torture of Indian migrant workers, while the State authorities search for Bangladeshi immigrants. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi issued notice to the Centre and the governments of nine States and UTs after hearing submissions by Advocate Prashant Bhushan. Bhushan argued that the said detention is illegal and not permitted under the Foreigners Act and sought the Court to intervene. The Court opined that a mechanism is required to enable the authorities to check details such as the place of origin (pre-immigration) and the place of work (post-immigration) of workers to find out if they are bona fide workers or foreign immigrants. The Court listed the matter to be heard after one week. The plea was filed by the West Bengal Migrant Workers' Welfare Board. The plea came after police and authorities in several states had detained "illegal immigrants" from Bangladesh. Earlier on August 5, Delhi Police said they had arrested five Bangladeshi "illegal immigrants" and launched an investigation. "All of them are illegal immigrants", police said, adding that "They tried to forcibly enter the Red Fort premises". "The age of all of them is around 20-25 years, and they work as labourers in Delhi. The Police have recovered some Bangladeshi documents from them. Currently, they are being interrogated," police said. Meanwhile, Gurugram Police had detained ten Bangladeshi nationals who were found to be living illegally in the city, according to police officials. Identification documents recovered from them confirmed their Bangladeshi nationality. Sandeep Kumar, PRO of Gurugram Police, said earlier, "Ten illegal Bangladeshi immigrants have been detained. Bangladeshi documents have been recovered from them. The process to deport them has begun." (ANI) According to a release from the Gujarat CMO, the address will be broadcast today on various TV channels. Meanwhile, 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, launched under the aegis of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav', is now in its fourth edition and has evolved into a people's movement. According to the Ministry of Culture, over five lakh youth volunteers have registered this year to inspire households across the country to proudly display the tricolour between August 13 and 15. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, announcing the initiative earlier this week, described it as "more than a campaign -- as an emotional movement that unites 1.4 billion Indians under the timeless colours of our National Flag." He said the aim was to "instil patriotism, foster civic pride and raise awareness on the significance of the Tiranga as a living symbol of democracy and independence." On August 14, India observes 'Partition Horrors Remembrance Day' to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and were displaced during the country's partition in 1947. India is all set to celebrate its 79th Independence Day on Friday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag on the occasion at the Red Fort in Delhi. (ANI) A man named Sudhir Kumar, 50, was declared dead by the AIIMS Trauma Care Centre after he and his daughter Priya, 22, were rushed to the Centre, informed the Delhi Police on Thursday. This comes after they were trapped beneath the fallen tree, owing to heavy rains, near Paras Chowk, Kalkaji, New Delhi, the Delhi Police told ANI. Describing more on the incident, the Delhi Police told ANI, "One of the injured, Sudhir Kumar, aged 50 years, passed away during treatment." "At approximately 9:50 AM, an old roadside Neem tree fell in front of HDFC Bank near Paras Chowk, Kalkaji. As a result, two individuals riding a motorcycle, Sudhir Kumar (age 50) and his daughter, Priya (age 22), were trapped beneath the fallen tree. The Local Police responded swiftly to the PCR call and immediate rescue operations were initiated by the Station House Officer Kalkaji and staff, with support from ACP Kalkaji and the Traffic Inspector, who also arrived promptly at the location," informed the Delhi Police In addition to this, an i10 car parked in the same vicinity sustained damage owing to the fallen tree, and no one was injured in the car. The area was secured and traffic was regulated accordingly to avoid further disruption. Meanwhile, Delhi Police have cracked a murder case within just eight hours, leading to the arrest of four suspects. The police also recovered critical evidence, including two blood-stained knives, the victim's motorcycle, and the blood-soaked clothes worn by the attackers during the crime, said the police. The three suspects have been identified as Pravesh (20), Pankaj Kake (23), and Ajay Akshay (28), all residents of Ram Nagar, Nabi Karim. On August 12, a fourth accused, Ashu (21), also from Ram Nagar, was apprehended based on a tip-off. According to the police, the incident occurred on August 10, when 22-year-old Bansi alias Pali, a resident of Amarpuri, was "fatally stabbed" at Tel Mil Gali in Nabi Karim in the national capital. The attack stemmed from a long-standing neighbourhood dispute. Bansi sustained multiple stab wounds and was "declared dead upon arrival" at the hospital. (ANI) A massive cloudburst on Thursday triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, along the route of the Machail Mata Yatra. Jitendra Singh told reporters that he "got a call" from the Jammu and Kashmir Leader of Opposition and local MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma about a "massive" cloudburst. "It also happens to be the route of the popular Machail Mata Yatra which takes place there. The cloudburst is on a massive scale, which could possibly lead to substantial casualties" "We immediately got in touch with the District authorities, who were also at a loss, as it had taken everyone by surprise. They have already started moving towards the site of the incident. Very soon we will know more details. Every possible assistance will be provided. The administration will also make arrangements for heli-rescue for medical treatment." Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, offered condolences to the beraved families. https://x.com/OfficeOfLGJandK/status/1955905160900960673 "Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected," the office of LG J-K said on X. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said it has rushed two teams to the spot. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured full central assistance after a massive cloudburst triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district. In a post on X, Shah said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have already been rushed to the site. "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need," Shah said in a post on X. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1955930626688729585 Local administration teams are on the ground, evacuating residents, providing medical aid, and working to restore normalcy in the affected areas. Authorities are assessing damage and prioritising the safety of people in vulnerable zones. As per the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Pankaj Sharma, the rescue operations are still underway. Meanwhile, two NDRF teams, comprising nearly 180 personnel, have been rushed to the site after the massive cloudburst struck the region. The NDRF teams, equipped with advanced search-and-rescue gear, were rushed from the force's Udhampur base following instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs. They are in close coordination with the local administration and state disaster management teams so that they can evacuate stranded residents, provide medical aid, and ensure the supply of essential relief materials. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim" after a cloudburst triggered flash floods in the region. In a post on X, Abdullah said, "I just spoke to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah to brief him about the developing situation in the Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloud burst is slow in arriving. All possible resources are being mobilised from within & beyond J&K to manage the rescue operations..." Union Minister Jitendra Singh said a massive cloudburst struck the Chashoti area in Kishtwar, prompting the administration to launch rescue operations and make arrangements for medical aid immediately. In a post on X, Jitendra Singh wrote, "Just now spoke to DC Kishtwar Sh Pankaj Kumar Sharma after receiving an urgent message from LoP #JammuAndKashmir and local MLA Sh Sunil Kumar Sharma." https://x.com/DrJitendraSingh/status/1955896794858017067 The cloudburst, which occurred early Thursday, caused flash floods that damaged infrastructure, cut off road connectivity, and left several remote villages isolated. The massive cloudburst struck Chishoti village in the Padder sub-division of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district today, triggering flash floods and extensive damage, with several people feared missing. The calamity occurred between 12 noon and 1 pm in the Chasoti area, the last motorable point en route to the revered Machail Mata temple, at a time when a large crowd of pilgrims had assembled for the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden surge of water swept through parts of the village, destroying property and severing road links to remote areas. (ANI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday interacted with 30 meritorious higher secondary students from tribal communities of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, at South Block, New Delhi. The interaction of the students with the Defence Minister is part of Aarohan: Dweep to Delhi, a seven-day National Integration Tour organised by the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC). These students will also witness the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on August 15, 2025. During the interaction, the Defence Minister underscored the importance of human values, terming them as the most vital aspect in building a person's character. He exhorted the students to remain rooted in human values and lay equal emphasis on building their character alongside academic pursuits. Singh urged the students to face every challenge with confidence and without fear. He motivated the students to contribute towards making India one of the most powerful nations in the times to come and extended his blessings for their future endeavours. Showering his affection, the Minister offered sweets to the visiting students, and the meeting concluded with the presentation of a traditional handcrafted souvenir from local tribal artisans of the Islands. Rajnath Singh commended this unique initiative by ANC, supported by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, HQ Delhi Area, and Civil Administration of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit were also present during the interaction. Aarohan: Dweep to Delhi is designed with the aim to provide exposure to the youth from remote island communities to India's rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and academic opportunities. The itinerary includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, India Gate, National War Memorial and Taj Mahal, along with premier institutions like Delhi Technological University and the National Science Centre. The programme reflects the Government's commitment to fostering national integration and empowering future leaders from the Islands. (ANI) On the fourth day of the ongoing Monsoon Session, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took aim at the opposition while highlighting his eight-and-a-half-year record. Comparing their governance from 1947-2017 with his 2017-2025 tenure, he accused them of fostering a family-centric mindset and mocked their "PDA" slogan as the "Family Development Authority," highlighting their limited vision. In his address, the Chief Minister described inclusive and holistic development as the foundation of Uttar Pradesh's and India's growth. He said, "Every assembly constituency should see development, and the benefits of welfare schemes must reach everyone without discrimination. Only inclusive development can realise the vision of 'Viksit Uttar Pradesh' and 'Viksit Bharat.' Criticising the opposition, he said their discussions show less concern for development and more desire for power. Quoting Charvaka, the Chief Minister lashed out at the opposition for their family-centric mindset. He said, "You are confined only to your families. Your 'Family Development Authority' approach embodies Swami Vivekananda's philosophy of the 'Kupa Manduka.' The world is moving ahead on the path of competition, but you are still confined to your families." Recalling UP's past, the Chief Minister said the state had been on a path of decline since the 1960s. Despite possessing vast resources, fertile land, rivers, and manpower, UP's policy neglect after the 1980s led to it becoming the most backwards (BIMARU) state in the country. "Schemes were announced, but there was neither the willpower nor the determination to implement them," he stated. He added that in those years, youth were jobless, farmers received no relief, investor confidence was absent, and crime and chaos dominated the state. Migration, poverty, deaths from diseases like encephalitis and dengue, corruption, discrimination, and nepotism had gripped UP. The Chief Minister highlighted the transformation under the double-engine government since 2017. He said law and order have been strengthened, criminals face zero tolerance, and an investor-friendly environment has made UP a top destination. Schemes are implemented without discrimination or appeasement. He proudly noted that improved governance, strong infrastructure, and a proactive administration have taken Uttar Pradesh to new heights. The Chief Minister presented significant figures of UP's economic progress. He said that in 2016-17, UP's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) was Rs 13 lakh crore, which is expected to reach Rs 35 lakh crore by the end of this financial year. "UP's contribution to the national GDP has increased from 8 per cent to 9.5 per cent. The per capita income has increased sharply from Rs 43,000 to Rs 120,000. Exports have also grown from Rs 84,000 crore to Rs 186,000 crore, and the state's budget has increased from Rs three lakh crore to Rs eight lakh crore," he remarked. "The NITI Aayog's Fiscal Health Index has improved by 8.9 points. Digital transactions have grown from Rs 122 crore to Rs 1,400 crore. UP is on its transition path from being a BIMARU state to becoming a revenue-surplus state," CM Yogi emphasised. Referring to India's economic progress, the CM said that in 1947, India was the sixth-largest economy in the world, but by 1980, it had slipped to the 11th position. After 2014, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country has progressed, reaching seventh place in 2017, fifth in 2024, and becoming the fourth-largest economy in 2025. Taking a dig at the opposition, he said, "You pushed the sixth-largest economy down to 11th, while the double-engine government propelled it to fourth. Today, India is demonstrating its strength and capability to the world." The Chief Minister said that 16 per cent of India's population resides in UP, but until 2016-17, its share in the national GDP had fallen from 14 per cent to barely 8 per cent. "The per capita income was only one-third of the national average. However, after 2017, UP has achieved a better economic growth rate than the national average, despite the COVID pandemic," he said. The CM reemphasised his commitment to make Uttar Pradesh a model of development and good governance. He said UP is no longer just a part of India but is becoming a leader in the country's economic and social progress. "Investor confidence, jobs for youth, relief for farmers, and better facilities for its citizens are UP's new identity," CM Yogi asserted, appealing to all the MLAs in the House to work together in their constituencies to accelerate development so that the dream of UP and India's development can be realised. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday criticised the Congress party over the alleged electoral manipulations in the past and said that severe electoral manipulations were carried out under the tenures of former Prime Ministers -- Jawahar Lal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi. Addressing a press conference, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat referred to the media reports, claiming nitric acid was allegedly poured into ballot boxes under former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's tenure, which helped him sway elections in his favour. "In the 1952 elections, under the leadership of the then-leader Jawaharlal Nehru, nitric acid was poured into ballot boxes that were full, so that the results could have been negatively impacted. The reports of damage to the ballots were printed in newspapers," Shekhawat said. Sharpening attack on Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi, Shekhawat said that booths were captured under the tenures of both the leaders, so that the Nehru-Gandhi family could remain in power. "After that, for the Gandhi-Nehru family to continue in power, during Indira Gandhi's election, immoral methods were adopted to influence voters; the Allahabad High Court had negated her election. We all know about this. When Rajiv Gandhi was leading the Congress party, in his own Lok Sabha constituency - Amethi, open booth capturing was done, and people were stopped from voting. So, repolling was needed in Amethi. To see that no repolling takes place, several attempts were made to stop it," he said. BJP leader further pointed out that Sonia Gandhi and other senior leaders of the Congress remain silent to date over the "immoral electoral methods" carried out by them when their party was in power. "A question was asked about Sonia Gandhi yesterday. I am surprised that even after 24 hours, neither the family nor the Congress party has responded to it in any manner. The Congress party is silent. This raises questions," he said. This comes amid a row that erupted over Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's "vote theft" allegations against the Election Commission and alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in poll-bound Bihar. Earlier today, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju lashed out at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over the latter's allegations of "vote theft," alleging that the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha has not read the Constitution and has no respect for it. On Wednesday, Rahul Gandhi 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. 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." 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 Congress's research on voting in the Mahadevapura Assembly in Karnataka, Rahul Gandhi alleged "vote chori" (vote theft) of 100,250 votes. Afterwards, the Election Commission said that Rahul Gandhi "still has time" to submit a formal declaration to substantiate his allegation of "vote theft" or apologise to the country. The Karnataka CEO has asked Congress MP Rahul Gandhi to submit documents to inquire into his "vote theft" allegations against the poll body. (ANI) China's top diplomat to chair 10th Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Foreign Ministers' Meeting Xinhua) 08:45, August 14, 2025 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 Province, from August 14 to 15, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson announced on Wednesday. The spokesperson said the LMC is an innovative type of regional cooperation mechanism among China, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam 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, the spokesperson said. "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 spokesperson said. 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, according to the spokesperson. Noting this year marks the 10th anniversary of the LMC mechanism, the spokesperson said 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, the spokesperson said. 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, according to the spokesperson. 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, Laos, 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 spokesperson said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Cheryl Hines doesnt see any point trying to publicly explain her husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s sexting scandal. Cheryl Hines doesnt see any point trying to publicly explain her husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr.s sexting scandal The 59-year-old Curb Your Enthusiasm star spoke about her marriage to the politician, 71, in the wake of reports that he had engaged in a sext-based relationship with journalist Olivia Nuzzi, 31, during his transition to MAGA politics. She told The Wall Street Journal about the story: I dont think theres any point to going through every rumour and headline to try to defend or explain it. Olivia was placed on leave by New York magazine on 19 September, 2024, after the publication said she had engaged in a personal relationship with a former subject relevant to the 2024 campaign, widely reported to be Robert. Cheryl indicated that the scandal, though public, has not derailed their marriage. She added: Bobby and I talk about everything, so thats how we move through everything, and were really good friends, and we trust each other. The actress also noted that her upcoming memoir, Unscripted, will present their relationship in a positive light. She said about the books contents on their relationship: One would deduce that we love each other and are still married and whatever weve been through is behind us. Cheryl has faced criticism for standing by her husband after he left the Democratic Party, ran for president as an independent, and aligned with President Donald Trump, while also becoming a prominent anti-vaxxer. She said she was surprised by the intensity of the public reaction, adding: At first, youre thinking, Wow. Why are they so angry or disappointed? Some people cant even, I dont know, they cant even talk about it. Its really rather strange, actually. Cheryl has previously called out her husband for controversial statements, including a January 2022 remark comparing vaccine mandates to the restrictions faced by Holocaust victim Anne Frank, which she deemed reprehensible and insensitive. Robert has also commented on public scrutiny, saying: 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. Cheryl added she now supports her husbands initiative to Make America Healthy Again through his role with Trump. She said: Something like that doesnt worry me or scare me. I feel very connected to MAHA. Amid mounting political controversy over allegations of vote theft and discrepancies in the voter list, a woman from Bihar has emerged as the face of the opposition's protest against the Election Commission. Minta Devi (35), resident of Bihar's Siwan district, mocked the poll body earlier while demanding that her details be corrected. "If I am 124 years old in the eyes of the government, why are they not giving me an old-age pension?" she told ANI, adding that her Aadhar Card mentions July 15, 1990, as her date of birth. Tej Pratap Singh, Devi's father-in-law, on Thursday, maintained that the concerned authorities have made a mistake in listing her daughter-in-law's age as 124 instead of 35 in the EC records. He demanded that her details be corrected. "She is 35 years old and not 124 years old. This is not our fault. The one who made the card must have made the mistake. Only they know what happened, how it happened and why it happened," he told ANI. Registering his objection to opposition leaders using Minta Devi's photo to protest against the government, Singh said, "She (Priyanka Gandhi) has done very wrong. Congress people call PM Modi a thief, but they themselves are thieves." However, Singh expressed strong reservations against the usage of Devi's photo on a T-shirt in protests against the EC by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi earlier over alleged discrepancies in the voter list. On August 12, the INDIA bloc leaders protested against the alleged discrepancy in Minta Devi's incorrect age listed in EC records, wearing T-shirts featuring her name emblazoned with the slogan '124 Not Out' to highlight errors in the electoral roll. Reacting to the protest, Minta Devi had rejected the opposition's use of her credentials for political purposes. The EC finds itself in hot water amid allegations of "vote theft" in the previous elections. The allegations levelled by Leader of Opposition (LoP) Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi days ago have sparked massive chaos with the opposition raising the matter in and outside Parliament during the ongoing monsoon session. However, despite repeated demands for a discussion on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar, the government remains unwilling to debate the matter. The ruling side has alleged that the opposition was trying to create "anarchy" and further charged them with "working" against the constitution. The opposition leaders, on the other hand, have claimed the Election Commission of "being one" with the government while accusing the ruling BJP of being a "dictator." The Parliament has witnessed constant adjournments in both houses - Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - as the opposition has been demanding discussion on the voter list revision in Bihar, and now the allegations of "vote theft" against the Election Commission. (ANI) A Delhi court has recently imposed a penalty on a medical surgeon, who is facing trial in a murder case of 2011, for interrupting the court proceedings by throwing rice in infront of the dias in the courtroom. The lawyers present in court hesitated to come forward to give their arguements, suspecting "black magic" by the accused. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Shefali Barnala Tandon of Tis Hazari court sentenced Dr Chander Vibhas till the court rises next. He was also slapped with a fine of Rs 2000, which he deposited on the same day. The court had listed to hear on August 11, the case of Vibhas, who is an accused in a case of murder registered at Hari Nagar. Before the hearing commenced, the court staff and counsel present informed the court that the accused, Vibhas, had thrown some rice grains on the floor under the dais. Proceedings of the court came to a standstill as advocates did not want to go ahead without getting the premises cleaned. While dealing with the matter, the court said, "This is very shocking and surprising to the Court that the present accused Dr Chander Vibhas, who is stated to be a Surgeon by profession and belonging to the educated and elite class, has acted in such an unreasonable manner and created an interruption in the Court proceedings." "Accordingly, this court is constrained to take cognisance of the offence under Section 267 BNS, 2023 against accused Dr Chander Vibhas since proceedings of the Court were halted for about 15-20 minutes and it is triable by this very Court where the said offence has been committed," the court said in the order. The lawyers present there hesitated to come forward, suspecting black magic by the accused. The accused tendered an apology to the court. "After considering all the facts and circumstances, including the apology tendered by the accused and his feeling of remorse, he is sentenced to undergo imprisonment till the rising of the Court and a fine of Rs 2,000 to be deposited with the State," ASJ Tandon ordered on August 11. The fine was deposited the same day. On enquiry by the court, the accused stated that he was holding some rice in his hands which had just fallen down. However, he failed to provide any satisfactory explanation on why he was carrying rice in his hands while entering the court and during court proceedings. The courtroom was full, and the advocates present requested that the Court have the rice removed/cleaned, as they hesitated to approach the dais for their matters to be taken up. Court proceedings were halted at the request of counsel present in the Court since they suspected Black Magic by the accused. The cleaner came after 10 minutes and cleaned the floor, the court noted in the order. Apparently, a similar incident also took place on August 2, but the court was on leave that day. (ANI) A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) in New Delhi recently granted bail to Yudhvir Singh alias Sandhu, who is an accused in a case linked with Lawrence Bishnoi and Babbar Khalsa International under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. This case pertains to allegations involving a conspiracy hatched by members of Babbar Khalsa International and the Lawrence Bishnoi gang based in India and abroad. It is alleged that they are raising funds, recruiting youth to carry out terrorist acts in the Union Territory of Delhi and other parts of the country. Special Judge (NIA) Chander Jit Singh granted bail to Yudhvir Singh alias Sandhu, subject to furnishing a bail bond of Rs 2 lakh and two sureties in the like amount, including other conditions. The chargesheet(s) filed against all the accused of this case mention the details of their previous involvement in other criminal cases. About the accused, either in the charge-sheet or in the reply filed by NIA to the present application, it has not been reported that the accused is involved in any case other than the present matter," the court said in its order on August 12. "The material, including statements and documents cited by NIA, as well as being part of the record, has been perused and evaluated on the established principle laid down for adjudicating the plea of bail in cases involving offences punishable under UA(P)A," the order added. The court held that the discussion in the backdrop of settled law shows that the accused has been successful in crossing the bridge of limitation laid down in Section 43(d)(5) of UA(P)A. "Hence, as a sequel to the above discussion, the present application seeking admission of the accused in bail is allowed subject to furnishing of bail bond in the sum of Rs 2 lakhs with two sureties of equal amount who shall be family members of the applicant," the court said in its order on August 12. Advocate Rajiv Mohan appeared for Yudhvir Singh. He argued that the investigation conducted by the prosecuting agency was full of gaps and lacunae, which were sought to be filled by submitting a chargesheet containing broad allegations against the accused of conspiring to commit a terrorist act in furtherance of a terrorist organisation with absolutely no corroborative evidence in support. It was also contended that the prosecution relies solely on the disclosure statement of the co-accused person, with no other independent material or witness present in the current charge sheet."This absence means there is no evidence linking the accused to the alleged Lawrence Bishnoi gang and its conspiracy, the subject matter of the investigation." Counsel Rajiv Mohan further argued that there is no evidence on record to demonstrate that the accused committed any act constituting a criminal offence under the provisions of the Indian Penal Code or any other law. It was also argued that in the absence of any material evidence or specific facts establishing the essential ingredients of the alleged offences, it is evident that no prima facie case is made out against the accused. It was also submitted that there is no evidence to corroborate that the accused was conspiring with these gangs or recruiting youth members for them. Defence counsel also argued that in order to say that an act falls under the gamut of section 120 B IPC, the prosecution has to establish that the accused has either assented to do an illegal act or a legal act via unlawful means. The allegations of managing the illegal money of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang are not supported by coherent and pragmatic evidence. In the absence of any concrete evidence establishing an alleged meeting of minds between the accused and the co-accused persons is baseless and without merit, the counsel added. The NIA contended that present case involves a conspiracy hatched by members of Babbar Khalsa International and Lawrence Bishnoi gang based in India and abroad and are raising funds, recruiting youth to carry out terrorist acts in the Union Territory of Delhi and other parts of the country and executing heinous crimes including but not limited to targeted killings of prominent persons, with an intention to strike terror in the minds of the people of the country. It was also argued that during the investigation of the case, 17 accused persons were arrested on various dates and from various locations in the country. The present accused was charge sheeted by the second Supplementary Chargesheet, including four other accused persons, on November 11, 2023. The NIA also argued that the accused Yudhvir Singh was an important member of the criminal syndicate of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and Babar Khala International. He was controlling, abetting and directing the terrorist, unlawful and criminal activities of the gang by active participation. The agency also said that the accused was a key member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang and played a pivotal role in arranging and providing shelter and support to other gang members, and had been providing weapons to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, as he has excellent knowledge about arms and ammunition. It also said that the knowledge of the accused about arms and ammunition was used for purchasing and smuggling weapons from India and abroad. "He is a habitual offender and has been implicated as an accused in several criminal cases pending before various courts." (ANI) As festivities for Independence Day begin, the centre on Thursday awarded Vir Chakra to nine Indian Air Force officers for their brave contributions in the service of the nation during Operation Sindoor. The Vir Chakra has been awarded to nine Indian Air Force officers, including fighter pilots, who targeted terrorist groups' headquarters in Pakistan's Muridke and Bahawalpur and the neighbouring country's military assets. Group Captains (GP) Ranjeet Singh Sidhu, Manish Arora, Animesh Patni, Kunal Kalra, Wing commanders (WG CDR) Joy Chandra, Squadron Leaders (Sqn Ldr) Sarthak Kumar, Siddhant Singh, Rizwan Malik, Flight Lieutenant (FLT LT) Aarshveer Singh Thakur have been awarded Vir Chakra. The Indian Air Force has brought down at least six Pakistani aircraft in the action. Vir Chakra is a military bravery award presented to wartime heroes for their gallant actions on the battlefield. It is third in line after Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. This comes after Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said that India took down at least five fighter jets of Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and downed one large aircraft which was taken on at a distance of about 300 kilometres. He said the aircraft that was brought down "is the largest ever recorded surface-to-air kill that we can talk about". The IAF Chief, who delivered the keynote address at the 16th edition of the Air Chief Marshal LM Katre Memorial Lecture on Saturday, lauded the successful completion of Operation Sindoor, underscoring the primacy of Air Power in modern military conflicts and its significance in national security. "We have at least five fighters confirmed kills and one large aircraft, which could be either an ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) aircraft or an AEW &C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft, which was taken on at a distance of about 300 kilometres. This is actually the largest ever recorded surface-to-air kill that we can talk about," Air Chief Marshal AP Singh said. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. The Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists. India repelled the subsequent Pakistani retaliation and pounded its airbases. (ANI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday urged the Centre to provide a special disaster relief package for the state. He said the state remains on high alert after heavy rains, floods, and cloudbursts caused widespread damage across multiple districts. "There has been damage at several places, and the state is on alert. I have also requested a special package from the Centre for Himachal Pradesh as disaster relief," Sukhu said. The Chief Minister said a cloudburst occurred in the Kullu area last night, with similar reports coming in from Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti. "Earlier, we never saw such incidents in Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, where there used to be less rainfall. The destruction caused by the rains is definitely the result of global warming and climate change," CM Sukhu said. The Chief Minister informed that he had discussed the matter with the Union government, which has agreed to involve environmentalists and scientists from institutions such as IIT Roorkee and other renowned research bodies to conduct a scientific study. "They will study why cloudbursts are happening more frequently and take further action based on the findings. In 2023, when we faced losses of Rs 10,000 crore, the Congress party had passed a resolution in the Assembly to send to the Centre. Instead of supporting the proposal, the Opposition walked out. Now, if they have joined us in demanding assistance, that is a good thing. I hope that in the coming time, we will get some help," Sukhu said. The Chief Minister described the current monsoon session as the "biggest in our history" and urged the Opposition to engage constructively. "They can certainly make allegations, but they should do so with logic, facts, and evidence. If they give good suggestions to make the state self-reliant, we will accept them. The Assembly is meant for discussion, not for walkouts," he said. Sukhu criticised repeated Opposition walkouts during the assembly sessions. "A walkout may get them one day's news coverage, but it does not lead to the state's development. Even within the Opposition, there are five internal groups. Many times when Jairam Thakur is speaking in the Assembly, another member from their own side raises their hand to speak. The Speaker asks them to wait, but they walk out instead. I would like them not to walk out but to raise local issues, Lok Sabha constituency issues, and state Assembly issues," Sukhu said. He added that the government has taken major steps in the past two and a half years toward making Himachal Pradesh self-reliant and would work at an accelerated pace this year. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday assured full central assistance to all those affected after a massive cloudburst triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir. The massive cloudburst struck Chishoti village in Kishtwar district today, triggering flash floods and extensive damage, with several people feared missing. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi stated that the situation is being closely monitored and rescue operations are underway. "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," PM Modi said in a post on X. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1955950475754283228 Earlier in the day, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured full central assistance after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Kishtwar district. Shah said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have already been rushed to the site. "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need," Shah said in a post on X. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1955930626688729585 Local administration teams are on the ground, evacuating residents, providing medical aid, and working to restore normalcy in the affected areas. Authorities are assessing damage and prioritising the safety of people in vulnerable zones. As per the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Pankaj Sharma, the rescue operations are still underway. Meanwhile, two NDRF teams, comprising nearly 180 personnel, have been rushed to the site after the massive cloudburst struck the region. The NDRF teams, equipped with advanced search-and-rescue gear, were rushed from the force's Udhampur base following instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs. They are in close coordination with the local administration and state disaster management teams so that they can evacuate stranded residents, provide medical aid, and ensure the supply of essential relief materials. In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim". The cloudburst triggered flash floods and extensive damage. The calamity occurred between 12 noon and 1 pm in the Chasoti area, the last motorable point en route to the revered Machail Mata temple, at a time when a large crowd of pilgrims had assembled for the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden surge of water swept through parts of the village, destroying property and severing road links to remote areas. (ANI) The Supreme Court, while hearing pleas seeking direction to restore the statehood of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday observed that in granting statehood, the ground situation has to be taken into consideration. "You cannot ignore what happened in Pahalgam," said a bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said the government had assured statehood after elections, but there is a peculiar situation there. He said the assembly elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir as promised to the Constitution bench that had upheld the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. "This is not the time for petitioners to muddy the waters," he further said. Mehta sought eight weeks to take instruction from the government on the issue. The top court was hearing applications seeking directions to the Centre to restore the statehood of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The applications had said that it becomes necessary that appropriate directions are passed directing the status of statehood of Jammu and Kashmir to be restored at the earliest in a time-bound manner, as had been undertaken by the Union of India. Filed by college teacher Zahoor Ahmed Bhat and activist Khurshaid Ahmad Malik, the applications stated that despite the assurance given by the Solicitor General that Jammu and Kashmir's statehood will be restored, the Union has not taken any steps in that regard in the years after the judgment in the Article 370 case. The application was filed through advocate Soyaib Qureshi in the disposed of case of abrogation of Article 370 which the Supreme Court upheld the abrogation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. "The applicants, being the conscious citizens of Jammu and Kashmir are aggrieved that, even after passing of 10 months of the order dated August 11, 2023, till date no steps have been taken to restore the status of statehood of Jammu and Kashmir as a state which is gravely affecting the rights of the inhabitants of Jammu and Kashmir and also violating the basic structure of federalism; and it is for that reason that the applicants have preferred the present application to seek appropriate directions to the Union of India for restoration of the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir in a time-bound manner within a period of two months," stated the application. If directions to restore the status of the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir are not passed at the earliest by this court, it would lead to grave harm being caused to the federal structure of the country, it added. Referring to the polls held in Jammu and Kashmir, the application stated that the formation of the Legislative Assembly before the restoration of statehood would violate the idea of federalism, which forms part of the basic structure of the Constitution of India. "Since the assembly elections were conducted peacefully, there would be no security concerns in case the apex court passed a direction to restore statehood to the Union Territory within a time-bound period," it submitted. "The delay in restoration of statehood would cause a serious reduction of democratically elected government in Jammu and Kashmir, causing grave violation of the idea of federalism, which forms part of the basic structure of the Constitution of India," the application further added. It was also contended that the conversion of the state of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories has resulted in Jammu and Kashmir being given a lesser form of elected democratic government, which will soon be formed once the results of the Legislative Assembly are declared. It added, "If the status of statehood is not restored to Jammu and Kashmir in a time-bound manner, grave prejudice would be caused to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, also leading to the violation of their fundamental rights and also gravely affecting the democratic structure of Jammu and Kashmir and its territorial integrity." "For Jammu and Kashmir, which has always had a federal relationship with the Union of India, it is of utmost importance that the status of statehood is restored "so that they can enjoy an autonomy in their individual identity and also play an important part in the overall development of the Country", the application added. On December 11, 2023, a five-judge Constitution bench had unanimously upheld the validity of the Union government's 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution, which conferred the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, while pointing out that Article 370 is a "temporary provision". The top court had taken into note Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's submission that the Statehood of Jammu and Kashmir will be restored, except for the Union Territory of Ladakh. It had directed that steps shall be taken by the Election Commission of India to conduct elections to the Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir by September 30, 2024. Restoration of Statehood shall take place at the earliest and as soon as possible, it had added. (ANI) Uttarakhand Disaster Management Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman on Thursday informed that the relief and rescue operations are ongoing in the disaster-hit Dharali-Harsil area of Uttarkashi district, adding that 68 people are still reported missing here. A massive mudslide struck Dharali village in the Kheer Gad area near Harshil, triggering a sudden flow of debris and water through the settlements on August 5. The cloudburst led to flash floods in the high-altitude villages of Dharali. Several houses were reported to have been swept away. Speaking to ANI, the official said, "Relief and rescue operations are ongoing. More than a thousand people are working on it. So far, 68 people have been reported missing. The search for them is ongoing. There are orange alerts and red alerts in some places. We have informed all the districts and have also issued a warning." Earlier in the day, the Information Department of Uttarkashi district informed that the District Magistrate Prashant Arya today inspected the recently formed temporary lake in the Harshil area. This lake was formed due to heavy debris falling into Harshil Gad due to the recent disaster in the Dharali-Harsil area. Further, the District Magistrate said that at present, the water is flowing smoothly from the mouth of the lake, due to which there is no immediate threat of any significant danger. However, manual work is being done on a war footing to remove the debris obstructing the flow on the riverbank. Due to the swampy site, deployment of heavy machines is not possible, so the administration is carrying out continuous cleaning work with the help of local resources and workers. Instructing the officials, the District Magistrate said that while maintaining vigilant surveillance in the area, reports should be submitted from time to time, and prior preparation should be ensured to deal with any emergency. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Director General of Police Deepam Seth reviewed the first phase of relief and rescue operations on Sunday, which are being carried out under the direction of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, following the natural disaster in the Dharali and Harshil areas of Uttarkashi. In addition, the Uttarkashi district administration is working continuously to help people affected by the recent disaster in Dharali and Harshil. By 11 am on Sunday, 20 people had been rescued safely at Matli helipad, and after receiving first aid, they were sent to their destination. The administration said that the availability of essential goods has been ensured in sufficient quantity in the disaster-affected areas of Dharali and Harshil. The work of delivering food items and other relief materials to each house has started. While the search and rescue operation is underway in the Dharali-Harsil area following a cloudburst. (ANI) Recognising the outstanding services of the Punjab Police, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on the eve of 79th Independence Day announced the names of the Punjab Police officers to be awarded President's Medal for Distinguished Service (PMDS) and Medal for Meritorious Service (MMS). According to an official release from the Punjab government, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) State Armed Police Punjab MF Farooqui and Inspector Suresh Kumar, Counter Intelligence, Ludhiana to be conferred with President's Medal for Distinguished Service. Similarly, one IPS-officer Inspector General of Police (IGP) Intelligence-II Gurdial Singh and one PPS-officer DSP SSOC Amritsar Gurpreet Singh are among 14 officers/officials who have been selected for the Medal for Meritorious Service. The remaining officials include Inspector Satinder Kumar, Inspector Deepak Kumar, Inspector Jagdeep Singh, Inspector Tejinderpal Singh, SI Amrik Singh, SI Sanjiv Kumar, SI Amritpal Singh, SI Anil Kumar, SI Bhupinder Singh, ASI Jaswinderjit Singh, ASI Kuldeep Singh and SI Krishan Kumar. Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav, while congratulating the awardees, expressed gratitude to the Central Government and State Government for recognizing the services of these officers and boosting the morale of the entire Punjab Police force. He said that such recognition plays a significant role in encouraging the Police force to work with more dedication and devotion, which is pivotal in a border state having manifold security challenges. https://x.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1955959867136409611 In a social media post on X, the DGP wrote, "Heartiest congratulations to all our decorated officers on this proud occasion. Grateful to the Hon'ble President of India, the Central and State Governments for recognising the exemplary service, integrity, and dedication of Punjab Police personnel. This honour strengthens our collective resolve to meet every security challenge with courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the safety of our citizens." (ANI) RSS-BJP workers were allegedly assaulted by CPI(M) activists as they left a house after a raksha bandhan celebration near Kayaralam Gopalan Peedika at Mayyil panchayat in Kannur, Kerala, on Wednesday night, said the police. Four people suffered injuries in the incident. While Rajith, an RSS worker, has been admitted to the hospital, others returned home after receiving treatment. Among those injured is Soman, a former CPI(M) branch secretary, who joined the BJP in April. BJP Kannur North district president KK Vinodkumar termed it a deliberate assault and demanded that action be taken against those responsible. The Mayyil police have registered a case against 25 people in connection with the incident. More information is awaited. (ANI) Christine Baranski has branded the women who travelled on the Blue Origins NS-31 flight as "grotesque". Christine Baranski was not impressed by the women who went into the boundary of space on the Blue Origins flight in April The 73-year-old actress is the latest celebrity to voice their disgust after an all-female crew flew to the boundary of space on Jeff Bezos' rocket in April, including pop star Katy Perry, his now-wife Lauren Sanchez, broadcaster Gayle King, aerospace engineer Aisha Bowe, civil rights activist Amanda Nguyen, and film producer Kerianne Flynn. Speaking on a panel about the displays of wealth on her HBO series The Gilded Age at ATX TV Festival in Austin, Texas, on August 11, she said: And the grotesque displays of wealth? Sending women into a spaceship for what? So they can do their makeup? What the f***?" Speaking in her character Agnes van Rhijn's voice, she said: Don't get me started. I'm going to sound like Agnes. Emily Ratajkowski was among those who have criticised the trip. In a TikTok video, the model ranted: "That space mission this morning? That's end time s***. Like, this is beyond parody. "Saying that you care about Mother Earth and its about Mother Earth, and youre going up in a spaceship that is built and paid for by a company thats singlehandedly destroying the planet? "Look at the state of the world and think about how many resources went into putting these women into space. For what? What was the marketing there? "And then to try to make it like Im disgusted. Literally, Im disgusted." Actress Olivia Wilde re-posted a meme on her Instagram Story featuring Katy kissing the ground after exiting the rocket and text which read: "getting off a commercial flight in 2025 #BlueOrigin. (sic)" She captioned the post: "Billion dollars bought some good memes, I guess." Ahead of the flight, Munn branded the trip "a bit gluttonous". She said on Today with Jenna and Friends: Whats the point? Is it historic that you guys are going on a ride? I think its a bit gluttonous. Space exploration was to further our knowledge and to help mankind. What are they gonna do up there that has made it better for us down here? Gayle addressed the backlash and said she was "very disappointed and very saddened". The journalist said she was frustrated by those who branded the 11-minute trip "frivolous". Speaking on CBS Mornings the host said: "Space is not an either or, it's a both and, and because you do something in space doesn't mean you're taking anything away from Earth. And what you're doing in space is trying to make things better here on Earth. "What Blue Origin wants to do is take the waste here and figure out a way to put it in space to make our planet cleaner. Jeff Bezos has so many ideas, and the people that are working there are really devoted and dedicated to making our planet a better place. That's number one. "There was nothing frivolous about what we do. "So, you know, I'm very disappointed and very saddened by it [the criticism]. And I also say this what it's doing to inspire other women and young girls? Please don't ignore that. I've had so many women and young girls reach out to me, and men too, by the way. Men too that say, 'Wow, I never thought I could do that, but I see you doing it at this stage of your life.'" At least thirty-two people were killed after a massive cloudburst on Thursday triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, along the route of the Machail Mata Yatra, BJP MLA from Paddar Nagseni, Sunil Sharma, said. As per the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Pankaj Sharma, the rescue operations are underway. The troops of White Knight Corps swiftly mobilised for rescue and relief operations. "Search for missing continues. Relief stores, medical teams and rescue gear rushed to the site," the White Knight Cops said in a post on X. According to the statement from the LG office, rescue and relief operations at Chashoti are in full swing. "Men and machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed and briefed by the Hon'ble Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue & relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance," the LG Office said. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured all the affected families. He said that the Air Force has also been alerted for evacuation, and the Government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the families in this hour of crisis. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured full central assistance, saying, "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need." https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1955950475754283228 Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured full central assistance after the cloudburst. Shah said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have already been rushed to the site. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1955930626688729585 Local administration teams are on the ground, evacuating residents, providing medical aid, and working to restore normalcy in the affected areas. Authorities are assessing damage and prioritising the safety of people in vulnerable zones. Meanwhile, two NDRF teams, comprising nearly 180 personnel, have been rushed to the site after the massive cloudburst struck the region. The NDRF teams, equipped with advanced search-and-rescue gear, were rushed from the force's Udhampur base following instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs. They are in close coordination with the local administration and state disaster management teams so that they can evacuate stranded residents, provide medical aid, and ensure the supply of essential relief materials. In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim". The cloudburst triggered flash floods and extensive damage. The calamity occurred between 12 noon and 1 pm in the Chasoti area, the last motorable point en route to the revered Machail Mata temple, at a time when a large crowd of pilgrims had assembled for the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden surge of water swept through parts of the village, destroying property and severing road links to remote areas. (ANI) The Tis Hazari court on Thursday extended Sandeepa Virk's Enforcement Directorate (ED) remand to four days in a money laundering case. She was produced before the court after her ED custody expired. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Vijay Shankar extended Sandeepa Virk's ED remand for interrogation and investigation. She will now be produced before the court on August 18. Special public prosecutor (SPP) Simon Benjamin appeared for the Enforcement Directorate (ED). He sought further remand for further investigation. As per ED, the investigation revealed that Sandeepa Virk has acquired immovable property in her name by making false promises and cheating. She claims to be the owner of hyboocare.com, a website purportedly selling FDA-approved beauty products. However, the products listed on the site have been found to be non-existent, the ED's alleged. The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) had conducted search operations on August 12-13, 2025, at multiple locations in Delhi and Mumbai under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. These operations are part of an ongoing investigation into Sandeepa Virk and her associates, who are alleged to have exerted undue influence through misrepresentation and defrauded individuals by soliciting money under false pretences. ED initiated an investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by Police Station Phase-8, SAS Nagar, Punjab, under Sections 406 and 420 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, the agency said in a statement. ED investigation revealed that Sandeepa Virk has acquired immovable property in her name by making false promises and cheating. She claims to be the owner of hyboocare.com, a website purportedly selling FDA-approved beauty products. However, the products listed on the site have been found to be nonexistent. The ED stated that the website lacks a user registration option and is plagued by persistent payment gateway issues. Scrutiny of the website uncovered minimal social media engagement, an inactive WhatsApp contact number, and an absence of transparent organisational details, all of which reinforce the finding of non-genuine commercial activity. These factors include a limited product range. Inflated pricing, false claims of FDA approval, and technical inconsistencies indicate that the website serves as a front for laundering funds, ED claims. The agency has stated that one person with whom Sandeepa Virk was in regular touch is Angarai Natarajan Sethuraman. "Former Director of erstwhile Reliance Capital Limited, with whom she had been communicating regarding illegal liaison work." It is further stated that a search at Sethuraman's residence has confirmed the same. Besides, diversion of funds for personal benefit has also been unearthed during the course of such search action. In 2018, public money of approximately Rs 18 Crore was spent. A loan belonging to Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd (RCFL) was disbursed to Sethuraman in violation of prudent lending norms. The funds were lent under terms that allowed deferment of principal as well as interest, with multiple waivers granted and no due diligence conducted, the agency claimed. Besides, a home loan of Rs 22 Crore was provided by Reliance Capital Limited, violating the prudential norms. A large part of these loans is seen to have been eventually siphoned off and remained unpaid, the statement said. ED has said that during the search operation, several incriminating documents and records were seized, and statements of key persons and associates, including Farrukh Ali, have been recorded. Further, Sandeepa Virk has been arrested on 12.08.2025 under the provisions of PMLA. She was produced before the Tis Hazari Court, which had granted custody to ED till August 14, 2025, for further investigation. (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday expressed heartfelt condolences to the grieving families after a massive cloudburst triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir. The massive cloudburst struck Chishoti village in Kishtwar district today, triggering flash floods and extensive damage, with several people feared missing. In a post on X, President Murmu said, "The news of several deaths due to a cloudburst in Kishtwar, Jammu-Kashmir, is extremely tragic. I express my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and pray for the success of relief and rescue operations." https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1955950972477358214 Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and BJP MLA Sunil Sharma said that the rescuing agencies recovered 32 bodies after the incident of flash flood in Chisoti Village in the Kishtwar district of J-K. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured full central assistance to all those affected after a massive cloudburst triggered a flash flood in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir. In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi stated that the situation is being closely monitored and rescue operations are underway. "My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need," PM Modi said in a post on X. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1955950475754283228 Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and assured full central assistance after a cloudburst triggered a flash flood in Kishtwar district. Shah said that the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have already been rushed to the site. "Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need," Shah said in a post on X. https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1955930626688729585 Local administration teams are on the ground, evacuating residents, providing medical aid, and working to restore normalcy in the affected areas. Authorities are assessing damage and prioritising the safety of people in vulnerable zones. As per the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Pankaj Sharma, the rescue operations are still underway. Meanwhile, two NDRF teams, comprising nearly 180 personnel, have been rushed to the site after the massive cloudburst struck the region. The NDRF teams, equipped with advanced search-and-rescue gear, were rushed from the force's Udhampur base following instructions from the Ministry of Home Affairs. They are in close coordination with the local administration and state disaster management teams so that they can evacuate stranded residents, provide medical aid, and ensure the supply of essential relief materials. In a post on X, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the situation in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar as "grim". The cloudburst triggered flash floods and extensive damage. The calamity occurred between 12 noon and 1 pm in the Chasoti area, the last motorable point en route to the revered Machail Mata temple, at a time when a large crowd of pilgrims had assembled for the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The sudden surge of water swept through parts of the village, destroying property and severing road links to remote areas. (ANI) Ahead of Independence Day celebrations on Thursday, the security in the national capital has been fortified with the police implementing an unprecedented security plan. Five advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems have been deployed - Facial Recognition, Anti-Intrusion Cameras, People Count Cameras, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and Abandoned Object Detection. Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police Madhur Verma told ANI that over 20,000 security personnel have been deployed for security in the national capital. "From a security point of view, Delhi Police have made all arrangements for the 15th August celebrations. Clubbing Delhi Police and other paramilitary services together, more than 20,000 personnel are deployed. CCTV cameras have been installed at the Red Fort and along all VVIP routes towards the venue." The official stated that multi-layered security arrangements have been made at the Red Fort. "This time, we have used video analytics in CCTV cameras--facial recognition system, abandoned object detection, person count and more. Even at the parking facility, under-vehicle scanning systems are being used. We have made multi-layered security arrangements at the Red Fort. We took access control of the Red Fort around 20 days ahead, and regular anti-sabotage checks and other measures are being undertaken," the police official said. Five Artificial Intelligence (AI) backed systems have been put in place to monitor the security arrangements. The Abandoned Object Detection system will trigger an instant alarm to the control room upon finding any unattended item in or around the Red Fort. The Anti-Intrusion Cameras will cover every wall and railing of the fort and will alert authorities on any suspicious movement or breach attempt. The Automatic Number Plate Recognition system will scan vehicle number plates and flags suspicious vehicles. In the Facial Recognition system, database of 300,000 suspects have been integrated into the system. The People Count System monitors real-time crowd numbers. For security, anti-drone systems are operational, over 800 CCTV cameras have been installed and FRS-enabled camera vans have been installed at entry gates. Additionally, there is a complete ban on flying objects, snipers have been stationed on rooftops. Around 25,000 people are expected to attend this year's celebrations. Two special control rooms--one inside and one outside the Red Fort--will monitor 426 cameras in real time. A permanent control room also operates year-round with 366 cameras covering the premises. From the afternoon of August 14, the entire Red Fort area has been sealed. Delhi Police have access to a database of 300,000 criminals, and if any such individuals are spotted near the Red Fort through surveillance systems, they will be immediately apprehended. On August 15, a multi-layer security ring will be in place, involving Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, the National Security Guard (NSG), the Special Protection Group (SPG), Military Intelligence, and other agencies. The Joint CP further said, "Kite flying is banned till the Independence Day programme continues at the Red Fort. We are making people aware around the Red Fort and in Old Delhi about this. Apart from this, flying drones is also banned. For this, we have installed anti-drone systems in coordination with various agencies. Jawans will also be deployed on rooftops to ensure no one flies kites or drones." Police have appealed to the public to cooperate with security agencies, remain vigilant, act as the "eyes and ears of the police, and immediately report any suspicious activity in their vicinity. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Election Commission of India to publish on the district electoral officer's website the list of approximately 65 lakh persons excluded or deleted from the Bihar draft electoral voters list, along with the reason for their deletion - death, migration or duplication. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi also asked ECI to give wide publicity of the same through local newspapers, Doordarshan, radio or any official social media platform. It said a booth-wise list of 65 lakh people shall also be displayed on all the Panchayat Bhawans and the Block development and Panchayat offices so that people have manual access to the list. This information should also be displayed on the website of the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar, said the bench in its interim order. The documents should be searchable by EPIC numbers, it was added. The apex court also asked the Election Commission to obtain a compliance report from all the booth-level and district-level officers and file a compliance report by Tuesday. "Aggrieved electors of Bihar whose names were not included could file their objections by applying with a copy of their Aadhaar card," said the bench to the ECI. The apex court has posted for hearing on August 22 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) National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday said that the demand of statehood cannot merely be singled out as a factor to ascertain whether terror attacks will come to a halt in Jammu and Kashmir. The remarks were made by the NC Chief after the Supreme Court, while hearing petitions, noted that the ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir cannot be ignored while granting statehood and said that the events in Pahalgam cannot be overlooked. Speaking to reporters, Farooq Abdullah said, "Nobody can undermine anything. These (terror attacks) happened even when it was a State. It is not as if just Statehood is responsible for this. This will happen because we do not have good relations with our neighbours. They (terrorists) come from there. If they are speaking of Statehood and the Pahalgam incident, then they should remember that several incidents occurred in my tenure, but it was a State at that time. We tackled it at that time." Expressing hope in the judicial process, Abdullah said, "People are hopeful that the Supreme Court will take note of this and restore our rights, something which has been promised by the Government inside as well as outside the Parliament." The top court, while hearing pleas seeking direction to restore the statehood of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, on Thursday observed that in granting statehood, the ground situation has to be taken into consideration. "You cannot ignore what happened in Pahalgam," said a bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, said the government had assured statehood after elections, but there is a peculiar situation there. He said the assembly elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir as promised to the Constitution bench that had upheld the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories. "This is not the time for petitioners to muddy the waters," he further said. Mehta sought eight weeks to take instruction from the government on the issue. In 2019, on the recommendation of Parliament, the President gave assent to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. Accordingly, the former state of Jammu and Kashmir was reorganised as the new Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and the new Union Territory of Ladakh on October 31, 2019. (ANI) President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday in her address to the nation on the eve of the country's 79th Independence Day praised the armed forces for their relentless efforts in guarding the nation during Operation Sindoor, which was launched in retaliation for the ghastly Pahalgam terror attack. Labelling the gruesome killing of innocent civilians in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam as "cowardly and inhuman", President Murmu said that India's response in the form of Operation Sindoor will go down in history as an example of humanity's fight against terrorism. "This year, we had to face the scourge of terrorism. Killing innocent citizens on holiday in Kashmir was cowardly and utterly inhuman. India responded in a decisive manner and with steely resolve. Operation Sindoor showed that our armed forces are prepared to meet any eventuality when it comes to guarding the nation. With strategic clarity and technical capability, they destroyed terrorist hubs across the border. I believe, Operation Sindoor will go down in history as an example in humanity's fight against terrorism," President Murmu said in her virtual address to the nation. Highlighting the country's unity during Operation Sindoor, the President praised the efforts of the multi-party delegations consisting of MPs across party lines. The world came to realise that India will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of its citizens, she said. "In our response, what was most noticeable was our unity, which is also the most befitting response to those who wanted to divide us. Our unity was also on display in the multi-party delegations of the Members of Parliament that reached out to various nations to explain India's position. The world has taken note of India's stance, that we will not be the aggressor, but we will not hesitate to retaliate in defence of our citizens," President Murmu asserted. Focusing on the achievement of the defence sector in indigenous manufacturing, the President noted that the outcomes of Operation Sindoor were telling of the fact that India has managed to be self-sufficient in meeting many security requirements. Operation Sindoor was also a "test case of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission in the defence sector." "The outcome has proved that we are on the right path. Our indigenous manufacturing has achieved the critical level that makes us self-sufficient in meeting many of our security requirements. These are landmark achievements in India's defence history since Independence," President Murmu said. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 as a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which 26 people were killed. The Indian Armed Forces targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, leading to the death of over 100 terrorists. The government also sent seven multi-party delegations to several countries across the globe to apprise them of India's stand against cross-border terrorism. (ANI) Recognising the need for empowering the citizens living in remote areas, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday launched a special scheme for the grant of arms licenses to original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens in vulnerable and remote areas of the state on the Sewa Setu portal. Assam CM launched the scheme at a function held at Lok Sewa Bhawan in Guwahati. It may be noted that the Cabinet took a decision on May 28, and subsequently, the government notified a special scheme for the grant of arms licenses to original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens living in vulnerable areas under the Arms Act 1959 and the Arms Rules 2016. Under this special scheme, original inhabitants of Assam, indigenous Indian citizens with a genuine threat to life and safety due to vulnerability of the region in which they reside, can apply for arms licenses. The application will be individually scrutinised from the perspective of threat perception, personal security requirements, and the necessity of possessing the licensed arms based on field-level inputs and assessments by designated police and intelligence authorities. A detailed police verification, including local inquiry, past criminal antecedents and socio-economic backgrounds, will be conducted. Moreover, the grant of a license shall be subject to full compliance with the Arms Act 1959, the Arms Rules or any other orders in force. The Home and Political Department shall maintain oversight and may call for periodic reports from the District Magistrates and Senior Superintendents of Police on the implementation of this special scheme. Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sarma said, "It gives me great pleasure to announce the launch of a crucial public service today. It marks a significant step in our government's commitment to ensuring citizen safety, transparency in governance, and the empowerment of original inhabitants and indigenous Indian citizens." He said that the special scheme reflects the State government's concern for the security of citizens living in vulnerable and remote areas of Assam due to geographic and socio-political factors. Citing the reasons for the government to make this special scheme, the Chief Minister said, "It has been observed that localised and micro-level security challenges sometimes demand lawful access to self-defence, especially for our original inhabitants and indigenous citizens." This special scheme would empower citizens to protect themselves against any covert or overt design of aggression against them, he said. Highlighting the scheme, the Chief Minister said that under this scheme, applicants residing in vulnerable and remote areas will be eligible to apply, subject to rigorous field-level security assessments, police verification, and the recommendation of the Senior Superintendent of Police. "Licenses will be issued only after careful vetting and with full compliance with all legal provisions under the Arms Act, 1959 and the Arms Rules, 2016," the CM emphasised. CM Sarma also said that the special scheme is purely citizen-centric, which would empower the citizens in remote areas as the first responders in case the police take time to reach out to the area. The scheme is very positive as it would also help the citizens in their cause of self-defence. He further stated that with the launch of the portal, applicants can now apply online from remote locations to avail of the scheme's benefits. The Chief Minister, on the occasion, however, appealed to the public to make responsible use of this facility, and assured everyone that strict monitoring, periodic review, and legal safeguards are built into the scheme to prevent any misuse. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday participated virtually in the program organised in Kashipur, Udham Singh Nagar, on the occasion of Partition Horror Remembrance Day. On this occasion, Chief Minister Dhami laid the foundation stone of Partition Smriti Sthal. Paying tribute to those who suffered the pain of the partition of the country, the Chief Minister said that we can never forget the day of 14 August 1947, when India was divided into two parts under the guise of religion. He added that while the whole country was preparing to celebrate independence on 15 August 1947, just a day before that, the country was divided into two parts. "Crores of people were forced to live as refugees, leaving their homes, villages, farms, shops, businesses and loved ones, going through the horror of partition. Even today, there is pain in the eyes of those people whose parents left them and went away from this world during that dark period of history," he said. The Chief Minister said that it is difficult for today's young generation to understand the unimaginable pain, fear, and struggle that people endured during the horror of Partition at the time of the country's independence. "It is impossible to compensate for their sacrifice and the sacrifices made for the freedom of the country. Recognising the significance of their sacrifice and pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared 14th August 2021 as Partition Horror Remembrance Day, ensuring that future generations will always remember the sacrifices and pain made by their ancestors," CM Dhami said. Chief Minister Dhami further said that this partition was not only the division of a landmass, but also the division of the lives and cultural identity of millions of people. "History had never seen such a terrible and horrific form of human displacement before," he emphasised. The Chief Minister expressed condolences to the people who faced the animosity and ill will and who, even after facing the tragedy of partition, maintained unwavering faith in their religion, culture and nation. The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is developing comprehensively. "Many works are being done towards the preservation and promotion of our cultural heritage, traditions and values. Through the construction of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya, reconstruction of Badrinath and Kedarnath Dhams, expansion of Baba Vishwanath's corridor, construction of Mahakal Lok and construction of Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, our religious heritage is being restored with divinity and grandeur, and a new stream of cultural renaissance is being brought into the country," he said. "The concept of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat is also being given a concrete form through decisions like abolition of Article 370 from Kashmir, end of the evil practice of triple talaq, implementation of CAA and Waqf Amendment Act and providing justice to the victims of 1984 riots," CM Dhami said. Chief Minister Dhami said that under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, Uttarakhand is establishing new dimensions of development and prosperity. Infrastructure related to all important sectors, including roads, education, health, and drinking water, is being strengthened in the state. CM Pushkar Dhami asserted that Uttarakhand is the first state in the country to implement the Uniform Civil Code. Following the implementation of the country's most effective anti-copying law, over 24,000 young people have secured government jobs. The state government is working with full commitment to preserve the cultural values and demography of Uttarakhand," the CM said, adding that strict anti-conversion and anti-riot laws have been implemented in the state. (ANI) Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria participated as the Chief Guest in the state-level 'Har Ghar Tiranga' program organised at Tagore Theatre on Thursday. In his address, Governor Kataria said that the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign is not just a symbolic movement, but has become a powerful campaign of patriotism, public participation and national consciousness. He said that this tricolour is a symbol of our identity, our ideals and our self-respect. Recalling the great heroes of India's freedom struggle, the Governor said that "India's independence is not of a single day, but it is a glorious history written in blood from the spark lit by Mangal Pandey in 1857 to complete independence in 1947." He deeply recalled the contribution of Madanlal Dhingra, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru, Subhash Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi and Veer Savarkar and said that their sacrifices returned India's identity. In particular, he described the land of Punjab as the pioneer of the freedom struggle and recalled the pain of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The Governor also said that the tragedy of Partition taught us that unity, brotherhood and tolerance are our greatest strengths. He described the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign as an effort to re-establish this national spirit. Speaking on the current situation of the country, Governor Kataria said, "Today's India is not the one that once suffered silently. This is the new India - self-reliant, aware and self-respecting. Which responded to cowardly terrorist attacks like Pahalgam with unity and emerged as a decisive power before the world." He said that now the time has come that every citizen should hoist the tricolour not only on the roofs but in their thoughts, behaviour and actions. True patriotism is that which is manifested through our actions. Praising the schools of Chandigarh, the Governor said that the teachers and students here are playing a leading role not only in acquiring knowledge but also in value-building and strengthening the spirit of patriotism. He said that today's event is not only cultural but also serves as a medium to ignite the nation's consciousness of building. The program had started with a grand handicraft exhibition organised by the Department of Social Justice, the Department of Culture and the Department of School Education, which transformed the Tagore Theatre complex into a visual form of 'Developed India'. (ANI) Stephen King has branded US President Donald Trump a "horror story" who he wants to see leave the White House in disgrace. Stephen King has attacked Donald Trump over his presidency The acclaimed horror author - whose books include The Shining, It and Carrie, among many others - has nothing but total contempt for President Trump and his right wing politics. King, 77, would like to see Trump's second term in office end with an impeachment. Asked in a reader interview with The Guardian newspaper what he would write if he had to invent an ending for Trump's America, King replied: I think it would be impeachment which, in my view, would be a good ending. I would love to see him retired, lets put it that way. The bad ending would be that he gets a third term and takes things over completely. Its a horror story either way. Trump is a horror story, isnt he? Misery writer King has been an outspoken critic of Trump, 79, and used his X account to brand the White House incumbent a "spoiled child". Posting on the social media platform, he wrote: Deep down in his heart, I believe Trump knows he's an incompetent a**hole. "Trump is like a spoiled child. When he doesn't get his way, he throws a tantrum." Trump has been impeached twice by the House of Representatives, but acquitted by the Senate on both occasions; first in 2019 for obstruction of Congress and secondly in 2021 after the Capitol attack that occurred on January 6 with the House of Representatives charging Trump with "incitement of insurrection" due to his allegations of election fraud. In September, the movie adaptation of King's short novel The Long Walk is released starring Mark Hamill, Cooper Hoffman, Ben Wang and Charlie Plummer. Set in a dystopian alternate version of America ruled by a totalitarian regime, Hamill plays the Major, a military commander who oversees an annual and gruelling walking competition. Star Wars actor Hamill - who played Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker in the sci-fi franchise - previously spoke about how his role as the Major in The Long Walk is unlike anything [hes] ever done before in his career. During an interview with Discussing Film, Hamill, 73, said: Well, hes amoral. I mean, for you to be able to do what he does hes got to be some kind of sociopath. Theres no sort of backstory for him, but you know hes a really troubled person. And sadistic and just all those terrible things. He praised the formation's combat preparedness and the effective integration of advanced technologies to counter emerging threats. "While witnessing a display of equipment featuring cutting-edge systems, the COAS stressed the importance of keeping pace with technological advancements and urged personnel to maintain constant operational vigilance," Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI), Indian Army, posted on X. General Dwivedi also interacted with troops, commending their dedication and exceptional state of readiness. Earlier on Monday, Lieutenant General Sultan Kamaletdinov, first Deputy Minister of Defence - Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan, called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi. In a post on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADG PI) said, "Their discussions focused on advancing bilateral defence cooperation, expanding military-to-military ties, the prevailing geostrategic environment in the region and reaffirming the mutual commitment to regional stability and global peace." Meanwhile, the Australian Chief of Army, Lt General Simon Stuart, called on COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi on Monday, as per ADG PI. They held discussions focused on deepening military-to-military engagement. The Australian Army Chief was also briefed on Operation Sindoor. In a post on X, the ADG PI said that the discussions focused on enhancing the bilateral defence cooperation between India and Australia, deepening military-to-military engagement and reinforcing the shared commitment to regional stability and global peace. "Lieutenant General Simon Stuart also engaged in high-level discussions with senior military leaders wherein he was briefed on OPERATION SINDOOR and India's security perspective," ADG PI said. The Chief of the Australian Army, Lt Gen Simon Stuart, who is visiting India from August 10-14, received a ceremonial guard of honour earlier on Monday here in the national capital. Notably, Lt Gen Stuart has a shared history with Indian Army Chief of Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, having trained together at the United States Army War College in 2015. (ANI) Ahead of the Bharatiya Janata Party's upcoming booth committee members meeting, Tamil Nadu BJP Vice President Narayanan Thirupathy said that the purpose of the conference was to prepare for the 2026 State Assembly elections. Giving insights into the meeting, Thirupathy stated groups of 12 people had been formed per booth, who would visit people door-to-door and convey the achievements of the party and misdeeds of the DMK government in Tamil Nadu. "The purpose of this conference is simple, but it is a very wonderful event. To prepare for the upcoming elections in 2026, the Tamil Nadu BJP has strengthened its organisation over the last few years. Booth-level committees have been formed, with a goal of 12 people per booth who will work for the party, visit people directly at their doors, and convey the achievements of the BJP and also the misdeeds of the DMK government in Tamil Nadu," Thirupathy told reporters. Preparations are underway for actor Vijay-led political party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam's (TVK) second State conference to be held on August 21, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. TVK will be contesting the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections for the first time. The state elections are scheduled to be held in 2026. On Wednesday, the party president Vijay launched 'Now TVK '- an exclusive application for the party membership drive. Meanwhile, Vijay had earlier slammed the Chief Minister MK Stalin-led DMK government in Tamil Nadu for what he described as "inhumane and anarchic" arrest of protesting sanitation workers in Chennai. "Condemn the fascist DMK government for arresting sanitation workers, who have been peacefully fighting for their rights, in an inhumane and anarchic manner in the dead of night!" Vijay said in a post on X. Earlier this month, Chennai police detained sanitation workers who had been protesting for 13 consecutive days outside the Greater Chennai Corporation's Ripon Building, following a Madras High Court order to clear the protest site. (ANI) Ahead of the 79th Independence Day, the Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria has announced the names of the Punjab Police officers/officials to be awarded the Chief Minister's Rakshak Padak award and Chief Minister's Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty on the occasion of Independence Day 2025, a press note said. Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Rajinder Singh, ASI Narinder Singh, Senior Constable Jaswant Singh and Senior Constable Harpal Kaur have been nominated for the Chief Minister's Rakshak Padak award. Similarly, 15 officials, who have been selected for the Chief Minister's Medal for Outstanding Devotion to Duty, include SHO Police Station Kiratpur Sahib Insp Jatin Kapoor, Incharge CIA Amritsar City Insp Amolakdeep Singh Kahlon, Incharge Yuva Saanjh Program Punjab Insp Navneet Kaur, Insp Prabhjit Kumar from Intelligence Wing, SI Lovedeep Singh, SI Gurmail Singh, SI Dimple Kumar, SI Sukhchain Singh, SI Satwinder Singh, ASI Harjinder Singh, ASI Sandeep Singh, HC Sandeep Singh, HC Akbal Singh, HC Karambir Singh and HC Jagjeet Singh. According to a press note, Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav congratulated the awardees and thanked the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Punjab Bhagwant Singh Mann, for recognising the services of the Punjab Police officers/officials. He said that such recognitions play a significant role in encouraging the Police force to work with more dedication and devotion. Meanwhile, four officers of the Andaman and Nicobar Police were conferred the prestigious 'President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service' and 'Medal for Meritorious Service' for their illustrious and unblemished service. The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the awards on the eve of Independence Day, 2025. Hargobinder Singh Dhaliwal, one of the recipents of the Police Medal for Gallantry, was awarded with the 'President's Police Medal for Distinguished service' and is currently posted as the Director General of Police (DGP) at Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with outstanding track record during his service. Known for his operational acumen and field policing, especially in the Anti-Terror and Organised crime field, Dhaliwal has demonstrated leadership, professionalism and dedication throughout his career. A leader of teams working on sensational murder cases, he was also instrumental in leading teams which solved the Delhi serial blast case and led to the arrest of three members. (ANI) Smoke was reported from the service floor of Mother and Child Block of AIIMS New Delhi on Thursday at 5.15 pm. Fire response teams were immediately alerted, and the in-house Delhi Fire Service Team also reported to the site immediately. With the swift response of the AIIMS Fire Response Team & Delhi Fire Service Team, the site of the said smoke was identified as a short-circuit in the indoor unit of the Air Conditioner installed in a laboratory on the service floor of Mother & Child Block, said a release from AIIMS Delhi. The situation was brought into control immediately and no major evacuation was necessitated. All services at Mother and Child Block are operational normally and there was no impact on any patient care activities. Earlier on August 9, One person died while eleven others were rescued after a fire broke out at the Kosmos hospital in Delhi's Anand Vihar area on Saturday afternoon. According to the Delhi Fire Service, the incident occurred at around 12.20 pm initially in the server room on the ground floor of the hospital. Soon after the incident, the patients were rescued and shifted to the nearby Pushpanjali Hospital. Fire Officer Ashok Kumar Jaiswal told the media that 11 people were rescued, among them eight were patients. "The control room of Delhi Fire Service received information around 12.20 pm that a fire broke out at the Kosmos hospital. Eight fire tenders reached the spot, and the fire initially broke out in the server room on the ground floor...11 people have been rescued, and one person died. Eight patients were among the rescued," said Fire Officer Ashok Kumar Jaiswal. According to police, a case under section 287/106(1) BNS (285/304A IPC) has been registered. (ANI) To mark the state-level celebration of the 79th Independence Day, Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, and other dignitaries paid a visit to Kirti Mandir on Thursday. During this visit, Minister of Water Supply Kunvarji Bavaliya, Rajya Sabha MP Rambhai Mokariya, District Panchayat President Parbat Parmar, MLA Arjun Modhwadia, former minister Babubhai Bokhiria, District BJP President Chetana Tiwari, and Porbandar City BJP President Sagar Modi, other dignitaries and officials were present. A day earlier, the Sarpanch Thanabhai Dodia of Jaloya village in Gujarat's Banaskantha district was invited as a special guest for the upcoming Independence day celebrations in recognition of his village's contributions during Operation Sindoor, when residents provided machinery and labor to assist the armed forces. Dodia, whose village lies about 20 kilometres from the India-Pakistan border, will attend the event at Delhi's Red Fort in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On Tuesday, he expressed gratitude to both the Gujarat and central governments for the honour."I have been invited as a special guest for Independence celebrations to be held on 15th August at Red Fort in Delhi in the presence of Shri Narendra Bhai Modi Sahib. I am thankful to the Government of India, the Government of Gujarat and the authorities from the bottom of my heart. This is the first programme after Operation Sindoor in which I have been invited as the sarpanch of my last village in the border area," Dodia said. "During the war in Operation Sindoor, when the machines were needed, we gave machines, and when labourers were needed, people stood ready. Keeping that in mind, we have been invited. Modi ji has given this opportunity to the sarpanch of the last village. I am grateful for this," he added. He also said the Border Security Force (BSF) has maintained close coordination with the village. "Operation Sindoor was going on, and BSF was in touch with us. We have good liaison in the border area. We sit together, plan and work together. The villagers have always helped the BSF, and the BSF has also helped us a lot," the Jaloya Sarpanch added. Meanwhile, the Gujarat government has planned extensive Independence Day celebrations in Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. The flag-hoisting ceremony will be led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Gujarat Legislative Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary will hoist the flag at Mehsana, while members of the State Cabinet and District Collectors will do so at various district headquarters. (ANI) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Delhi Assembly Leader of Opposition (LoP) Atishi on Thursday held the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) responsible for the death of a person after a tree fell on him due to heavy rains in the national capital. The man was killed while his daughter, Priya (22), was rushed to the AIIMS Trauma Centre, as per the Delhi Police. Speaking to ANI, Atishi claimed that this was not the first death in the city, further stating that it was the failure of the four-engine BJP government. "This morning, a tree got uprooted due to rain on Hansraj Sethi Marg and a person died, his daughter is admitted in AIIMS. This is not the first death due to rain in Delhi... This is the failure of the four-engine BJP government..." Atishi told ANI. She further stated that the Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Sharma should remove the Public Work Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma from the cabinet, further stating that someone had to be held responsible for the loss of life and property in the city. "Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta should remove PWD Minister Parvesh Verma from the cabinet. Someone has to take responsibility for the loss of life and property..." she further added. Earlier in the day, a man, identified as Sudhir Kumar, was declared dead by AIIMS Trauma Care Centre after he, along with his daughter, identified as Priya (22), was rushed to the Centre, stated the Delhi Police. This comes after they were trapped beneath the fallen tree, owing to heavy rains, near Paras Chowk, Kalkaji, New Delhi, the Delhi Police told ANI. Describing more on the incident, the Delhi Police told ANI, "One of the injured, Sudhir Kumar, aged 50 years, passed away during treatment." "At approximately 9:50 AM, an old roadside Neem tree fell in front of HDFC Bank near Paras Chowk, Kalkaji. As a result, two individuals riding a motorcycle, Sudhir Kumar (age 50) and his daughter, Priya (age 22), were trapped beneath the fallen tree," they said. "The Local Police responded swiftly to the PCR call, and immediate rescue operations were initiated by the Station House Officer Kalkaji and staff, with support from ACP Kalkaji and the Traffic Inspector, who also arrived promptly at the location," informed the Delhi Police. (ANI) Local residents held a Tiranga rally near the world's highest railway bridge, Chenab Bridge, in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi on Thursday, ahead of Independence Day. Speaking to ANI, Dharmari Sub-Divisional Magistrate Tariq Aziz stated that people from civil society, children, and representatives from all departments participated in the Tiranga rally. "Our Tiranga rallies have been ongoing since the beginning of December. Today, we conducted our program on the highest railway bridge under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Reasi. You can see here that people from civil society, children, and representatives from all departments are present. We want to convey that when our Tiranga is high, the spirit of our people is also high..." the official said. A grand Tiranga Rally was organised in Rajouri featuring a 2-kilometre-long National Flag. The rally saw a huge participation of people filling the atmosphere with patriotic fervour. Police officials were also stationed to maintain tight security. Earlier today, the Office of LG J&K X account commended the Tiranga Horse Rally, organised by Nomadic Tribals in Rajouri district as part of the Har Ghar Tiranga initiative, describing it as truly inspiring. The X account of the Office of LG J-K posted, "Tiranga Horse Rally by Nomadic Tribals in Rajouri is truly inspiring. With pride in their hearts, every citizen is marching ahead on the glorious path of infinite possibilities. @dmrajouri #HarGharTiranga" Earlier, on Wednesday, the Bhaderwah valley witnessed a vibrant Tiranga Rally organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, led by SDPO Bhaderwah, who joined police, students, and locals in waving a 100-meter national flag, thereby 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. (ANI) On the eve of the 79th Independence Day, the national tricolour flag was raised high in the country as millions joined the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. Active participation of ministers, students and locals in the campaign turned it into a celebration of the unity, pride and patriotism. This year, the fourth edition of the campaign, launched under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, was celebrated to inspire citizens across the nation to bring the Indian National Flag, the Tiranga, into their homes and hearts. The campaign turned into a people's movement, with five lakh volunteers registering to inspire households across the country to display the flag. The Har Ghar Tiranga 2025 campaign builds on the resounding success of previous years, infusing it with fresh energy, creativity, and opportunities for citizens to connect with the national flag in deeply personal and community-driven ways. This year's edition unfolded in phases, ensuring participation from every corner of the country in the run-up to Independence Day. The celebrations will culminate on August 15, 2025, with a unified display of the Tiranga across homes, institutions, and public spaces, symbolising a collective affirmation of national pride. The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign drew its strength from a whole of society approach, bringing together ministries, departments, States, Union Territories, and citizens in a unified effort. This coordinated participation ensures that the celebrations reach every part of the country and resonate with people from all walks of life. Under the spirit of Jan Bhagidari, Self Help Groups (SHGs) across the country have played a pivotal role in making the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign a truly inclusive movement. Women-led SHGs have been at the forefront of manufacturing the National Flag, ensuring not only adherence to quality standards but also timely availability across urban and rural areas. Their efforts have extended beyond production to active participation in the distribution of flags, enabling citizens in even the remotest regions to join the celebrations. This collaboration reflects the strength of community-driven initiatives in translating national campaigns into grassroots realities. In Uttar Pradesh, the State Rural Livelihood Mission has mobilised around 30,000 self-help group members to produce an impressive two crore national flags for the Har Ghar Tiranga 2025 campaign. This large-scale effort has not only brought together thousands of women from across the state but has also fostered a deep sense of pride and unity, as they contribute their skills to creating the national symbol that will adorn millions of homes. In Bihar, the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign has brought together nearly 500 skilled and first-time artisans across 10-15 districts, working through producer companies such as Shilpgram and Janki, as well as other local institutions. With proper training in place, both seasoned members and newcomers contributed to the large-scale production of flags in all three notified sizes -- 20x30, 16x24, and 6x9 inches -- using materials like satin and roto polyester. Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, announcing the initiative earlier this week, described it as "more than a campaign -- as an emotional movement that unites 1.4 billion Indians under the timeless colours of our National Flag." He said the aim was to "instil patriotism, foster civic pride and raise awareness on the significance of the Tiranga as a living symbol of democracy and independence." In Madhya Pradesh, the Chief Minister Mohan Yadav participated in the 'Nauka Tiranga Yatra' organised at the Boat Club in Bhopal under the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign. The CM further expressed hope and prayed to God that the way Indian armed forces showed their valour against the enemies, their strength should increase further. He also urged everyone to resolve ahead of Independence Day that they should stand together with the nation to combat any future challenges. In Punjab, Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria attended the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' program as the Chief Guest. In his address, Governor Kataria said that the "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign is not just a symbolic movement, but has become a powerful campaign of patriotism, public participation and national consciousness. He said that this tricolour is a symbol of our identity, our ideals and our self-respect. The first edition of Har Ghar Tiranga in 2022 celebrated 75 years of India's independence, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the spirit of Jan Bhagidari. States/UTs, ministries, NGOs, and community groups came together to create a festival-like atmosphere nationwide. The campaign achieved notable milestones, including a Guinness World Record for the Largest Human Image of a Waving National Flag in Chandigarh with 5,885 participants, over 23 crore homes hoisting the Tiranga, and more than 6 crore selfies uploaded on the official portal. The second edition in 2023 saw this enthusiasm grow even stronger. Over 10 crore selfies with the flag were uploaded, turning the campaign into a digital celebration of patriotism. In both 2022 and 2023, the hybrid format of the programme encouraged a personal emotional connection with the flag at home, while also fostering a collective celebration through online engagement. In 2024, the third edition was celebrated from August 9-15, with participation from all States, UTs, and key industry partners. A highlight was the Tiranga Bike Rally on 13th August, where Members of Parliament rode from Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, to Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, passing the iconic India Gate. The nationwide activities once again brought millions together, reinforcing that bringing the flag home is not just symbolic -- it is a shared commitment to the ideals of the nation. The Indian national flag, also known as the Tiranga, was officially adopted on July 22, 1947. Its design features three equal horizontal stripes - deep saffron at the top, white in the middle, and dark green at the bottom. The white band has a navy blue wheel, known as the Ashoka Chakra, with 24 spokes. The Dharma Chakra, featured in the Sarnath Lion Capital created by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, symbolises the "wheel of the law." The tricolour embodies the struggles, sacrifices, and aspirations of a nation that fought tirelessly for its freedom. It represents unity, diversity, and the country's rich cultural heritage. The Flag Code of India, 2002, governs the display of the flag, ensuring it's treated with respect and dignity. (ANI) Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday chaired an important meeting in New Delhi with various state agriculture ministers, Agriculture Secretary Devesh Chaturvedi, Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research Dr ML Jat, along with senior officials and scientists from several states, the ministry said on Thursday. Discussions covered a wide range of topics -- shortage of fertilisers and urea, certification of bio-stimulants, preparations for the upcoming Rabi crop under the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan', the National Mission on Natural Farming, increasing pulses and oilseeds production, the 5-year agricultural action plan, settlement of crop insurance claims in flood and disaster-affected areas, and publicising the toll-free number for resolving farmers' grievances. Chouhan began the meeting by extending greetings for Independence Day. He informed that a two-day conference on the 'Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan' for the Rabi crop will be organised in New Delhi on September 15-16, and the formal launch of the campaign will be held on October 3, 2025, coinciding with Vijay Parv. The campaign will run from October 3 to Dhanteras on October 18. He urged all state agriculture ministers to prepare seriously for this initiative. He added that he would formally write to the Chief Ministers of the states to ensure the presence of Agriculture Ministers and senior agriculture department officials at the conference. Chouhan also asked the ministers to gather data on fertiliser requirements for the Rabi season and come prepared for an in-depth discussion at the conference. The meeting also reviewed preparations for the National Mission on Natural Farming, which will be launched by the Prime Minister on August 23. Chouhan directed officials to ensure full readiness to meet the mission's targets and discussed the progress under the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana in 100 districts. The Minister also deliberated on increasing the production of pulses and oilseeds, and urged State Agriculture Ministers to personally lead and promote these important missions, schemes, and campaigns in their states. He stressed that the country must strengthen the production of pulses and oilseeds to meet our national demand. Raising the issue of fake fertilisers and urea once again, Chouhan called upon state governments to take strict action. He noted that around 30,000 bio-stimulant products were being sold earlier, many without proper certification. So far, only 600 bio-stimulants have been certified. He directed officials to ensure that only these certified products reach farmers, and stressed that forcing farmers to purchase other products along with fertilisers is wrong and that strict action should be taken against it. During the meeting, various Agriculture Ministers shared their respective on-ground challenges with the Union Minister. Agriculture Ministers from Rajasthan (Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena), Uttar Pradesh (Surya Pratap Shahi), Madhya Pradesh (Aindal Singh Kanshana), Bihar (Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary), Karnataka (N. Cheluvarayaswamy), Uttarakhand (Ganesh Joshi), Chhattisgarh (Ramvichar Netam), as well as representatives from Gujarat (Raghavjibhai Patel) and Punjab (Gurmeet Singh Khuddian), requested additional urea supplies. Ministers from Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh also reported crop damage due to natural disasters and sought additional financial assistance. Chouhan said that there could be two main reasons for the increased demand for urea: first, an increase in the sowing of rice, maize, and other crops due to good rainfall; second, possible misuse of urea for non-agricultural purposes. If the demand is genuinely for farming needs, urea will certainly be supplied -- the ministry is working promptly on this. However, if there is any suspicion of misuse, it will be seen as a serious matter that will invite strict action. Chouhan urged all State Agriculture Ministers to ensure proper use of urea by forming monitoring committees and strengthening oversight mechanisms. The Union Minister also instructed officials to prepare the outline for a 5-year agricultural action plan by incorporating suggestions from progressive farmers, experts, and other stakeholders. He also directed wider publicising of the ministry's toll-free number for resolving public welfare issues. On the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Chouhan emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring complete transparency in its implementation. Compensation is being directly transferred to farmers' accounts through digital payment. If any insurance company or state government delays claim settlement, an additional 12% interest will have to be paid directly to farmers' accounts. In conclusion, Chouhan reiterated the Prime Minister's call to adopt Swadeshi and asserted that under no circumstances will the interests of the agriculture sector or the citizens of the country be compromised. The interests of farmers, as well as livestock rearers and fishermen, will be safeguarded, and the government remains committed to the nation's goal of agricultural development. (ANI) Himachal Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Thursday informed that the state has suffered extensive damage due to heavy rainfall and flooding over the past 24 hours, with over 550 roads currently blocked. Speaking to ANI, Singh said intense rain has lashed almost every part of the state since last night and has continued through the day, severely affecting road connectivity. "According to data received till this morning, 550 PWD roads are closed. We are making every effort to reopen them within the next two days. All our departmental officers are on the job, with machinery like Poclain and robo machines deployed across affected areas, manpower is also working on the ground, and I am in constant contact with our Executive Engineers and senior officials," he said. He informed that there has been major damage in Rampur's Ganvi Area and heavy destruction occurred in Rampur's Ganvi area on Wednesday night. "A lot of damage has taken place; some areas are badly affected. Several bridges have been washed away, some belonging to the Himachal Pradesh Electricity Board and some under PWD. We are working to replace them, installing Bailey bridges wherever necessary and restoring suspension bridges in certain areas," Singh said. Himachal Minister acknowledged the limited central assistance this year. "This year, we have not received much support from the Centre, though we have sent our assessment reports. In 2023, we estimated losses of Rs 8,000 crore from floods and heavy rain, for which we received Rs 1,500 crore. My department has been allocated Rs 1,400 crore, which we are using to restore damaged roads, repair cuttings, and rebuild areas where entire embankments have collapsed," the minister said. The minister also urged residents to remain indoors unless absolutely necessary. "I appeal to everyone to stay safe in their homes and only step out for urgent reasons. In several districts, government schools have been closed as per instructions from the state government. District Deputy Commissioners have been authorised to take such decisions based on local conditions," he said. He also cautioned residents living near rivers and drainage channels to stay alert. "Most of the damage has occurred near rivers and nallahs, whether in Thunag or other parts of Mandi and in the entire state. We are also receiving more reports of bridge damage. This is a serious concern, and I appeal to people to remain vigilant. We are providing full cooperation and making every possible effort," Singh said. The India Meteorological Department has predicted continued rain in Himachal Pradesh over the next two days, which could slow restoration efforts. Officials said that while the target is to reopen most blocked roads within 48 hours, persistent rain may cause delays. (ANI) Jennifer Aniston has filled her home with crystals to banish negative nerves from the mansion. Jennifer Aniston has filled her home with crystals to banish negative nerves from the mansion The Friends actress, 56, opened the doors of her Los Angeles home to Vanity Fair, declaring it a sanctuary from the pressures of both Hollywood and the wider world. She said when told during the chat it exudes calmness: Good! Thats the whole point. Motioning towards the outside world, she added: Out there, it causes nerves. In here, there should be no nerves. The actress $21 million abode, located in L.A., was opened to Vanity Fairs Julie Miller, who took a detailed look inside the residence for the magazines September cover story. Jennifer added: Ive basically incorporated all of the healing modalities in order to create a calm environment in the chaos of the wonderful industry and the world at large. The home features crystals including raw amethyst and a white stone for clarity, an incense holder decorated with crows, and a curated selection of design books. Designed by the architects A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons, the house maintains a serene atmosphere through pale cream couches, white peonies and taper candles. Large panoramic windows take up an entire wall, offering sweeping views from Downtown L.A. to the Pacific Ocean, reinforcing the homes spa-like calm. The space notably lacks screens or ambient noise, enhancing its anxiety-suppressing effect. Jennifer also shared her passion for interior design, a hobby she shares with her longtime Friends co-star Courteney Cox, 59. She said: We usually talk interior design. It kind of bores people to tears when we get into a room together. But its what we love. Its our love language. The actress described how she curates her life around architecture, animals, hair, and spiritual affirmations to find inspiration without being overwhelmed by online noise. She added: I try to stay away from the noise as much as possible. Thankfully, my algorithm is animals, architecture, hair and spiritual affirmations. So its not that doomy. Through the combination of intentional decor choices, panoramic views, and a carefully managed digital environment, Jennifer has fashioned a personal oasis where visitors can also experience a sense of calm, the Vanity Fair feature showed. Governor Acharya Devvrat chaired the At Home program on the eve of the state-level celebrations of the 79th Independence Day in Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, stated a release. The event, organised at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Porbandar, was graced by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister Kunvarji Bavaliya, and other dignitaries. While extending greetings for the 79th Independence Day, the Governor said that this occasion was a moment to honour Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and other patriots. He emphasised that by emulating Gandhiji's efforts to preserve the nation's rich national and spiritual heritage during the freedom movement, the present generation can help India achieve holistic development--something for which every citizen must contribute in this journey of progress. Speaking about the importance of deeds in life, the Governor stated that a person's greatest wealth is their actions, and that no virtue surpasses working for the welfare of others with duty, honesty, and dedication. Under the guidance of Gujarat's proud son and our Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, India is advancing towards multidimensional growth and a distinct global identity, with progress driven by industry, modern farming, sports, and infrastructure. Gujarat, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has emerged as the nation's growth engine. The Governor further stated that truth, non-violence, non-possession, non-stealing, and celibacy embody the essence of righteousness, which endures over time. He added that living by the truth fosters a happy and harmonious life. Following the program, the Governor and Chief Minister exchanged Independence Day greetings. The Governor also visited the Natural Farming Haat and lauded farmers for adopting and promoting natural farming. On this occasion, the police band performed the national anthem along with patriotic songs, showcasing national pride. The tradition of hosting the At Home program in various Gujarat districts each year--initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat--has set an example for other states. The event was attended by Union Minister of Labour and Employment Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Water Supply Kunvarji Bavaliya, Pujya Bhaishri Rameshbhai Oza, District Panchayat President Parbat Parmar, Rajya Sabha MP Rambhai Mokariya, MLA Arjun Modhwadia, Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi, Additional Chief Secretary Sunaina Tomar, Additional Chief Secretary MK Das, Director General of Police Vikas Sahay, Former Minister Babubhai Bokhiria, District Collector S.D. Dhanani, District Development Officer, BB Chaudhary, District Superintendent of Police, Bhagirathsinh Jadeja, along with prominent personalities and distinguished citizens. (ANI) This has been informed through a communique written to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on August 6. It may be noted that with an aim to provide a vital platform for the selection of officers in the Armed Forces and inspire the local youth to pursue careers in the Defence Forces, CM Sarma wrote a letter to the Ministry of Defence on February 20, 2025. Through the letter, Sarma sought the help of Rajnath Singh to establish a dedicated SSB Centre in Guwahati. Sarma stated that the candidates from the North Eastern Region find it challenging to access existing SSB Centres, as they are located in the Northern, Central and Southern Indian regions. Sarma also assured of availability of vacant military land within Guwahati for the purpose of setting up the Guwahati SSB Centre. In reply, the Ministry of Defence said that the matter has been examined and the feasibility of establishing a joint Selection Centre, North East for the Army and Air Force in Guwahati is under active consideration. In view of this, CM Sarma thanked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and expressed his gratitude for establishing the SSB Centre in Guwahati for the benefit of the youth of the North Eastern Region. (ANI) As the nation prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, the Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, along with Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, held an interactive session with Special Guests of Independence Day Ceremony-2025. According to a statement from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, one hundred trainees, who are being trained in various modern skills under the PM VIKAS Scheme of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, were invited as Special Guests of Independence Day Ceremony-2025. These hundred trainees are being trained with the Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee (DSGMC) as the implementing partner. These special guests interacted with Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and George Kurian. The Minister(s) praised the dedication and interest of the youth participating under the scheme and highlighted that empowering our youth with skills is empowering the nation itself and reaffirmed the Government of India's commitment to leaving no community behind in India's journey of growth. These special guests will attend the Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony tomorrow at the Red Fort - a moment meant to inspire them to carry forward the spirit of India's progress. The Ministry of Minority Affairs had allocated a project to DSGMC with a target of 31,600 candidates, including 29,600 candidates for skill training and 2,000 candidates for educational support in March 2025. As part of the project, candidates are being trained in industry-aligned job roles that cater to emerging workforce demands, such as AI Data Scientist, Telecom Technician (5G), Technical Artist (AR-VR), Graphic Designer, and Solar PV Installer, among others. During the interaction, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also announced that the Ministry will implement similar focused skilling initiatives in areas with concentration of minority population across the country with the objective of strengthening livelihoods, promoting self-reliance, and enabling national integration, particularly in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI) The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, one of the accused in the murder of Renukaswami. A bench of Justices R Mahadevan and JB Pardiwala found that the Karnataka High Court had granted bail to Darshan by overlooking serious evidence and relying on inadequate grounds contrary to established legal principles in murder cases. "The mere filing of the charge-sheet, the existence of a long list of witnesses, or the possibility of delay in trial, cannot, by themselves, constitute valid reasons to dilute the gravity of the offence or to disregard the case put forth by the prosecution", the Court noted in its verdict. Additionally, the top court noted that, as per the record, Darshan made clear attempts to interfere with the investigation, including being involved in arranging false surrenders by co-accused persons, making payments to conceal the crime, and leveraging connections with police to manipulate the FIR and postmortem process. "There is also evidence of CCTV footage being deleted from another accused's residence and ongoing influence over prosecution witnesses, as demonstrated by public appearances after bail, on part of the Kannada actor," the court added. "The appellant alleged that A2 is not merely misusing liberty post-bail but is the mastermind of efforts to derail the investigation," it said. Ultimately, the Court found that in the present case, the High Court, granted bail to Actor Darshan based on contradictory findings without a coherent or legally consistent rationale. "The HC while granting bail (to Darshan) recorded that he was not present at the crime scene, but at the same time, accepted that he was in telephonic contact with other accused at crucial times. It also noted that there was no strong motive, while also acknowledging post hostility and prior-enmity with the deceased," the top-court noted. Notably, the top-court also emphasized that popularity and social status cannot justify bail when there's a real risk to the investigation or trial. It also noted that in this case, the High Court erred by treating Darshan's celebrity status as a mitigating factor, despite evidence of his misuse of jail privileges, political influence, and ability to undermine the justice system. "Popularity cannot be a shield for impunity. As this Court held, influence, resources and social status cannot form a basis for granting bail where there is a genuine risk of prejudice to the investigation or trial... Notably, celebrities serve as social role models - accountability is greater, not lesser. They, by virtue of their fame and public presence, wield substantial influence on public behaviour and social values. Granting leniency to such persons despite grave charges of conspiracy and murder, sends wrong message to society and undermines public confidence in the justice system" the Court noted. The Court also warned that it will place the jail authorities under suspension if it finds that they are providing Darshan and other accused persons with special or five-star treatment. "Thus, the day we come to know that the accused persons are provided with some special or five-star treatment within the jail premises, the first step in the process will be to place the jail superintendent under suspension including all other officials involved in such misconduct", the Court said. Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra appeared for the Karnataka government. Darshan was named in the chargesheet in the Renukaswamy murder case, where the 33-year-old resident of Chitradurga was murdered. The victim's remains were discovered in Bengaluru's Kamakshipalya on June 9, 2024. In October, last year, the Karnataka High Court had granted interim bail for six weeks to jailed actor Darshan Thoogudeep Srinivas, accused in the Renuka Swamy murder case. Subsequently, the Karnataka government had moved the top-court challenging the HC's decision to grant bail to Darshan. (ANI) Security has been beefed up across the nation with increased checking, patrolling and area domination ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. Surveillance has been intensified across the country with increased patrolling. Checkpoints have been set up to screen individuals and vehicles. The security in the national capital has been fortified with the police implementing an unprecedented security plan. Five advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems have been deployed - Facial Recognition, Anti-Intrusion Cameras, People Count Cameras, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and Abandoned Object Detection. The Abandoned Object Detection system will trigger an instant alarm to the control room upon finding any unattended item in or around the Red Fort. The Anti-Intrusion Cameras will cover every wall and railing of the fort and will alert authorities to any suspicious movement or breach attempt. The Automatic Number Plate Recognition system will scan vehicle number plates and flag suspicious vehicles. In the Facial Recognition system, a database of 300,000 suspects has been integrated into the system. The People Count System monitors real-time crowd numbers. For security, anti-drone systems are operational, over 800 CCTV cameras have been installed, and FRS-enabled camera vans have been installed at entry gates. Additionally, there is a complete ban on flying objects, and snipers have been stationed on rooftops. Around 25,000 people are expected to attend this year's celebrations. Two special control rooms--one inside and one outside the Red Fort--will monitor 426 cameras in real time. A permanent control room also operates year-round with 366 cameras covering the premises. From the afternoon of August 14, the entire Red Fort area has been sealed. Delhi Police have access to a database of 300,000 criminals, and if any such individuals are spotted near the Red Fort through surveillance systems, they will be immediately apprehended. On August 15, a multi-layer security ring will be in place, involving Delhi Police, paramilitary forces, the National Security Guard (NSG), the Special Protection Group (SPG), Military Intelligence, and other agencies. Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police Madhur Verma told ANI that over 20,000 security personnel have been deployed for security in the national capital. "From a security point of view, Delhi Police have made all arrangements for the 15th August celebrations. Clubbing Delhi Police and other paramilitary services together, more than 20,000 personnel are deployed. CCTV cameras have been installed at the Red Fort and along all VVIP routes towards the venue," he said. The official stated that multi-layered security arrangements have been made at the Red Fort . "This time, we have used video analytics in CCTV cameras--facial recognition system, abandoned object detection, person count and more. Even at the parking facility, under-vehicle scanning systems are being used. We have made multi-layered security arrangements at the Red Fort. We took access control of the Red Fort around 20 days ahead, and regular anti-sabotage checks and other measures are being undertaken," the police official said. The Joint CP further said, "Kite flying is banned till the Independence Day programme continues at the Red Fort. We are making people aware around the Red Fort and in Old Delhi about this. Apart from this, flying drones is also banned. For this, we have installed anti-drone systems in coordination with various agencies. Jawans will also be deployed on rooftops to ensure no one flies kites or drones." Police have appealed to the public to cooperate with security agencies, remain vigilant, act as the "eyes and ears of the police, and immediately report any suspicious activity in their vicinity. Special Commissioner of Police of Delhi Traffic Police, Ajay Chaudhary informed that there is a ban on the entry of commercial vehicles in all border areas of Delhi, enforced from 10 pm and will remain till the event at Red Fort is over on tomorrow. He said, "From 10 PM tonight, there will be a ban on the entry of commercial vehicles in all border areas of Delhi, and this ban will remain in place until the event at the Red Fort tomorrow is completely over. Diversions will also be implemented on the routes leading to the Red Fort. An event is also held at India Gate, and diversions will be put in place there as well. The traffic police have deployed approximately 3,000 personnel for this arrangement..." 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. Two meetings at different levels were held at the Delhi Police headquarters. In Jammu and Kashmir, all security measurements have been put in place across the union territory in view of the Independence Day. The Indian Army has deployed a three-tiered robotic counter-infiltration grid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar village of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, while security forces have been deployed in Doda to ensure that no one with ill intent disturb the peaceful atmosphere. Special checkpoints have been established at key entry and exit routes, where vehicles are being thoroughly checked, and the identity of passengers is being verified. Army patrols have also been intensified in sensitive areas. In Bandipora, BSF has deployed women personnel along the LoC in Gurez as security is tightened for Independence Day. In Kupwara, an Indian Army officer said that the troops are tasked with ensuring zero infiltration along the LoC. "Our task as the troops deployed on the ground is to establish, maintain and ensure zero infiltration and establish a zero infiltration grid in this area... We do that in three layers," the Army officer said. Describing the three-tier grid, he said that the first layer of defence is the surveillance equipment, including radars, thermal imaging sites, weapon and helmet-mounted sites, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). He said, "We use the plethora of surveillance equipment which has been given to us by the government of India, including radars, various thermal imaging sites, weapon and helmet-mounted sites, and UAVs." The Army official added that the second layer is the obstacle system, which includes mines. "Number two is the obstacle system, which we have incorporated into our defences. We have placed various types of mines and optical systems throughout the entire area of responsibility," he told ANI. The third layer is the army personnel on the ground involved in routine ambushes and patrolling. He said, "Number three is us, the men on the ground... We ensure that we send out routine ambushes and patrols to dominate the entire area either physically, by observation, or by fire." Meanwhile, security has been significantly heightened in other major parts of the country too, ahead of Independence Day celebrations. Authorities in Assam have launched joint operations, especially in cross-border areas, as a part of security measures, as the nation gears up to celebrate 79th Independence Day and deployed forces at some "vulnerable points" and vital installations. Police authorities in West Tripura reassured citizens of the robust security arrangements in place to ensure a peaceful and safe celebration. The Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya has launched "Operation Alert" along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya from August 10 - 16 to ensure foolproof security in the run-up to Independence Day. Proper security arrangements have been made in Chandigarh in view of the Independence Day celebrations as more than 2000 police personnel have been deployed in the city. Speaking to reporters, Chandigarh DGP Sagar Preet Hooda stated that additional security has been deployed in the city in view of the Independence Day celebrations. He said, "We just flagged off a Tiranga yatra under the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign...Proper security arrangements have been made in view of the Independence Day celebrations...Additional police have been deployed this time..." SSP Chandigarh Kanwardeep Kaur asserted, "...Picketing has been done on all the areas bordering Punjab and Haryana...All the suspicious vehicles are being checked...More than 2000 police personnel have been deployed in Chandigarh..." (ANI) The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Thursday stayed the operation of recruitment notices issued last month for the appointment of Vice Chancellors in two state agriculture universities, observing that the eligibility criteria may have unfairly excluded faculty members holding posts equivalent to Professor. Justice Sandeep Sharma passed the interim order while hearing a petition filed by Ajaydeep Bindra, Principal (Scientist) at Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur, and another petitioner, Principal (Horticulturist) at Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni. Both argued that despite being equivalent in rank to Professors -- as per a 2014 office order -- they were ineligible under the July 21 recruitment notices for the top posts. The petitioners contended that the omission of the word "equivalent" in the eligibility clause, unlike in similar advertisements by Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, and Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, barred them and others in equivalent positions from applying. The Advocate General informed the court that the State Government had already flagged the issue to the Chancellor -- the Governor of Himachal Pradesh -- but had yet to receive a response. He also submitted that the Governor's Secretary was not competent to issue such recruitment notices, which should have been released by the administrative heads of the Agriculture and Horticulture departments. Prima facie agreeing with the petitioners, the court observed that the category of faculty members holding posts equivalent to Professor "ought to have been included" in the recruitment notice, or the term "equivalent" should have been explicitly used. It noted that in other states, eligibility for Vice Chancellor posts includes "equivalent experience in a reputed research and/or academic administrative organisation in a position equivalent to Professor." "In case such omission is not corrected, great prejudice shall be caused to the petitioners as well as other similarly situated persons," the order said. Staying the recruitment notices dated July 21, the court issued notice to the respondents, granting four weeks to file a reply, and fixed September 25 for further hearing. The case has implications for academic recruitment processes in the state, potentially widening the pool of candidates eligible for Vice Chancellor positions in specialised universities. Earlier this week, the Himachal Pradesh government withdrew two July 21 advertisements for the selection of vice-chancellors at Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (Nauni, Solan) and CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (Palampur), declaring any action under them "null and void" This prompted a standoff with Raj Bhavan. On August 13, the Governor, citing his statutory powers as Chancellor under Section 24 of the HP Universities of Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry Act, 1986, restored the advertisements and extended the application deadline to August 18, 5 pm, asserting he is the sole authority to initiate the appointment process. (ANI) IndiGo flight 6E-360 from Delhi to Darbhanga was cancelled on Thursday after adverse weather in the national capital delayed its departure, causing the scheduled arrival to fall outside Darbhanga airport's limited runway operating hours. Sources told ANI, "The flight -- originally planned to depart earlier in the day -- was delayed after heavy weather conditions in Delhi disrupted schedules. Darbhanga airport, which operates with specific runway availability constraints, could not accommodate the delayed arrival, prompting the airline to call off the service'. All passengers were deboarded at Delhi Airport. However, a small group staged a brief protest on the tarmac. The situation was brought under control with the intervention of airport authorities and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel, who escorted the protesting passengers back peacefully, a source familiar with the matter told. The source also said that refreshments and alternate flight options were provided to all affected travellers. Further, in a statement, IndiGo clarified and said, "The departure of IndiGo flight 6E 360 from Delhi to Darbhanga was delayed due to heavy rains, waterlogging, and traffic congestion in Delhi. Later, the flight had to be cancelled owing to the watch hour restrictions at Darbhanga Airport that could not be extended. The customers at the Tarmac were guided to the terminal with the support of security agencies at the airport and our team ensured their comfort. All possible arrangements were made for affected customers with refreshments, alternate scheduling options or cancellations with full refund. Our teams were present to assist and keep customers informed throughout the process." "At IndiGo, safety is our highest priority, and we adhere strictly to all operational and regulatory guidelines. We regret the inconvenience caused to our customers, due to factors beyond the airline's control," added the statement. (ANI) After the Union Cabinet approved four new semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Odisha, Punjab, and Andhra Pradesh, Congress leaders in Karnataka on Thursday accused the Centre of favouring BJP-ruled states. Karnataka CM's legal advisor AS Ponnanna alleged the BJP-led Union government was prioritising "political gains over national interest." "It is very clear that for the BJP government, their political gains are more important than national interest... The yellow metro line here is a prime example of their politicking. We contributed Rs 51 thousand crore, they contributed about Rs 7 thousand crore, yet they are claiming it as if the whole credit goes to the Prime Minister," Ponnanna told ANI. Congress leader Rizwan Arshad accused the central government of "twisting" technology giants into investing in Gujarat and other "friendly states." He claimed a semiconductor factory initially planned for Telangana was "blackmailed" into relocating to Andhra Pradesh. "The Modi government has always been at twisting technology giants into investing in Gujarat and their friendly states. Similarly, the semiconductor factory to be located in Telangana has been blackmailed to be shifted to Andhra Pradesh. This is a regressive move. The Modi government has always discriminated against the Southern states. They don't treat equally," Arshad told ANI. Congress leader Sharath Bachegowda alleged a "step-motherly attitude" towards South India, saying, "We have seen that whenever these companies come to make investments in semiconductors and silicon, they are always pushed to state which do not have any ecosystem, which do not have an ability to support these kinds of semiconductor industries, and the states which the BJP government currently rules." "Using a step-motherly attitude towards South Indian states, we have been completely against this since day one," he said. Congress MLA NA Haris said, "We have been seeing these things for the last 10 years. They have taken many things to Gujarat...If they make it about BJP-ruled states vs non-BJP-ruled states, then it's not acceptable, and also against the Constitution." Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh called the "competition" among states for semiconductor projects a "farce." "Much earlier similar transfer of locations were forced through. 2 semiconductor manufacturing projects were compelled to shift their proposed location from Telangana to Gujarat. Similarly, another factory planned for Tamil Nadu got approval on the condition that it shifts to Gujarat. Need anything more be said? The PM speaks of competition among states that will make India strong. But if the umpire is so blatantly biased, the competition becomes a farce," he posted on X. The Cabinet's decision, however, drew praise from Union Ministers, state leaders, and industry representatives, who took to X to welcome the move. (ANI) The incidents occurred across the city, with the young girl hit by a stray bullet in Azizabad and a man named Stephen killed in Korangi. At least 64 others suffered gunshot wounds in the citywide incidents, Geo News reported. Rescue officials said dozens were injured due to celebratory gunfire. Authorities condemned the practice as reckless and dangerous, urging citizens to mark Independence Day in safer ways. Police have initiated their investigation and assured that strict action will be taken against those found involved in aerial firing. According to a report obtained by ARY News, at least 42 people, including five women, lost their lives in firing incidents across Karachi in January. Additionally, 233 people, including five women, were injured in these incidents. Five people were killed while thwarting robbery attempts in the firing events, which were reported in different regions of the city. In other instances, individuals lost their lives as a result of stray gunshots or aerial fire. However, none of the seven people who died in firing incidents--including a woman--have been named. Police officers attributed the episodes to several factors, including disagreements, personal animosities, and resistance to robbery attempts, ARY News reported. Road accidents, robbery resistance, and aerial firing also contributed to a spike in deaths in Karachi earlier in January. According to the Chipa Foundation, 528 people, including children and the elderly, were injured in road accidents, and 36 people died as a result. In addition, robbery resistance incidents resulted in three fatalities and fifteen injuries. (ANI) Between 13 and 25 August 2025, DXB is expected to welcome more than 3.6 million guests, with daily averages reaching 280,000. The busiest day is forecast for Friday, 15 August, with traffic set to exceed 290,000. The back-to-school surge follows a record-breaking first half of 2025, which saw Dubai welcome 9.88 million international overnight visitors--a 6% increase year-on-year--and DXB handle over 46 million guests, reaffirming its position as the world's biggest international airport. Dubai Airports is working with the oneDXB community, including airlines, control authorities, and commercial and service partners, to ensure a seamless, stress-free journey for every guest during this busy travel period. Enhanced support is available for People of Determination, including marked accessibility routes, discreet assistance for guests wearing Sunflower Lanyards, and a dedicated Assisted Travel Lounge in Terminal 2. (ANI/WAM) Lil Wayne is at the centre of growing fears for his health after he postponed a highly anticipated Toronto concert due to illness. Lil Wayne is at the centre of growing fears for his health after he postponed a highly anticipated Toronto concert due to illness The 42-year-old rappers scheduled venue, Budweiser Stage, announced he would not be appearing in a statement issued on X. It said: Due to unforeseen illness, Waynes Toronto show tonight will be postponed. As his fans know, he loves putting on nothing short of the best performances for those who come out, and he was so excited for this one. The announcement referred to a gig on Monday, 11 August, but is only now coming to light due to concerns about Waynes health by fans. Wayne, whose legal name is Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., had been scheduled to perform at Torontos Budweiser Stage but will now reschedule. The statement continued: Please stay tuned for the new date coming soon. All previously purchased tickets will be honoured for the new date once announced. No further details have been provided regarding the nature of his illness and neither Wayne or his representatives have publicly commented on his condition despite fans getting increasingly worried about the performer. Wayne is currently on the Tha Carter VI tour, which launched on 1 August in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and is set to continue through multiple cities including Detroit, Los Angeles, and Dallas before concluding on 2 October at West Palm Beach, Floridas iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre. Special guests on select dates include French Montana, Tyga, and NoCap, while Belly Gang Kushington will appear at all performances. In a separate controversy, Waynes on-off girlfriend Denise Bidot, 39, publicly accused him of physical abuse and criticised him for ending their relationship via text on Mothers Day. In posts on her Instagram Stories, Denise said: Breaking up with someone on Mothers Day is diabolical. Prayers up though. God always pulls me through. Walking with faith. She added: Wayne literally kicked me and my daughter out on Mother's Day today. I am just recovering from surgery. I am five weeks out from a whole mommy makeover. I can't even lift boxes. But this man has his assistants coming to help kick us out today... and (he) broke up with me on Mother's Day through text. And (my daughters) birthday's next weekend. She also wrote she was unsure how to even process my emotions and asked followers for legal advice noting: I know he has two girls being flown in today, and who knows how many plethora of girls he has. I've been nothing but supportive to this man, loved him till the end of the f****** world. At the time of her claims, representatives for Wayne did not respond to requests for comment. Abu Dhabi [UAE], August 14 (ANI/WAM): Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, has discussed with the Prime Minister of Montenegro, Milojko Spajic, bolstering bilateral relations and ways to accelerate cooperation between the two countries, to serve their shared interests. Over a phone call, the two sides addressed the developments of the forest fire affecting some areas in Montenegro, with the UAE top diplomat expressing the country's solidarity with the friendly Republic of Montenegro in facing these exceptional circumstances. He affirmed the UAE's readiness to provide the necessary support and assistance to mitigate the impact of the wildfire. Sheikh Abdullah also emphasised the privileged relations between the two countries, expressing his wishes for Montenegro and its people to enjoy continued safety and prosperity. (ANI/WAM) US President Donald Trump made strong claims about the state of crime in Washington, DC, stating that the city has one of the highest homicide rates in the world, surpassing several notoriously violent countries. In a post on his social media platform 'Truth Social,' Trump wrote, "But now, DC is back under Federal Control where it belongs. The White House is in charge. The Military and our Great Police will liberate this City, scrape away the filth, and make it safe, clean, habitable and beautiful once more!." Earlier during a press conference on Monday, Trump announced that he is placing the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department "under federal control" and deploying the National Guard to the city, saying the move is aimed at restoring order in the nation's capital. "Washington, DC, has one of the Highest Rates of Crime in the World, more than many of the most violent Third World Countries. The City's Homicide Rate is higher than places notorious for their violence, such as Mexico City, Bogota, Islamabad, and Addis Ababa -- Almost ten times higher than Fallujah, Iraq." Trump wrote. "If DC were a State, it would have the highest Homicide Rate of any State in America." Trump claimed that violent crime in the city has worsened over time, adding, "The Violent Crime Rate in DC has worsened, and the Murder Rate has essentially DOUBLED in just over a decade -- But these are only the 'official' statistics released by corrupt City Officials. The REAL numbers are many times worse." He alleged manipulation of crime data, stating, "In fact, a Precinct Commander was just suspended for allegedly manipulating the Violent Crime Statistics, and the DC Police Union, likewise, says the real numbers are much higher." Trump blamed the city's government for inaction, stating, "Because the Democrat Government of D.C. has largely stopped investigating, arresting, and prosecuting most Crime, the published statistics don't even capture a fraction of the actual Violence." Describing the everyday impact on residents, he said, "No one is arrested for shoplifting. Citizens living in fear have largely given up on calling the Police, instead choosing not to walk the streets after dark, essentially becoming captive prisoners in their own City. Stores lock up their merchandise behind glass walls. Gang Youth Violence is so common it goes largely unreported. Vehicle Theft in DC is more than three times the National Average. Schools are completely dysfunctional. Citizens are afraid to speak up or call the Police, lest they be targeted." Trump estimated the scale of the problem, adding, "The REAL Crime Rates are probably five to ten times what has been reported. DC has been under siege from thugs and killers, but now, DC is back under Federal Control, where it belongs." (ANI) The MND said that 8 out of 8 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1955796514615308367 In a post on X, the MND said, "8 sorties of PLA aircraft and 2 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 8 out of 8 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." On Wednesday, the MND detected 14 sorties of PLA aircraft, six PLAN vessels operating around its territory. In a post on X, 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." 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) The National Assembly of Pakistan passed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2024, restoring the provision of preventive detention for individuals suspected of terrorism, The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday. The amendment, which was passed on Wednesday, empowers both military and civil armed forces to detain individuals suspected of terrorism for up to three months. According to The Express Tribune, the bill, presented by Pakistani Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control Talal Chaudhry, was approved after a clause-by-clause reading, with the House rejecting proposed changes by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F)'s Aliya Kamran and accepting an amendment from Pakistan Peoples Party's Syed Naveed Qamar. As per the amendment, Section 11EEEE of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), initially enacted in 2014 in the aftermath of the Peshawar Army Public School attack, had expired in 2016 due to a sunset clause, The Express Tribune reported. The latest amendment reintroduces this provision, allowing authorities to detain individuals based on credible intelligence or reasonable suspicion to preempt terrorist activities. The law also allows for the establishment of Joint Interrogation Teams (JITs), composed of members from law enforcement and intelligence agencies, to carry out in-depth investigations and gather operational intelligence. According to the bill's statement of objectives, Pakistan's current security landscape demands stronger legal tools to empower the government, military, and law enforcement agencies in dealing with individuals posing a serious threat to national security, as reported by The Express Tribune. The bill was taken up for voting, with 125 members supporting the motion and 59 opposing it. As per the bill, as stated by The Express Tribune, sub-section (1) of Section 11EEEE allows detention beyond three months, subject to constitutional safeguards under Article 10, which protects against unlawful arrest and detention. A key revision to sub-section (1) of Clause 2 states: "The Government or, where the provisions of section 4 have been invoked, the armed forces or civil armed forces, as the case may be subject to the specific or general order of the Government in this regard, for a period not exceeding three months and after recording reasons thereof, issue order for the preventive detention of any person who has been concerned in any offence under this act relating to the security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, or public order relating to target killing, kidnapping for ransom, and extortion, bhatta, or the maintenance of supplies or services, or against whom a reasonable complaint has been made or credible information has been received, or a reasonable suspicion exists of his having been so concerned, for purpose of inquiry," as quoted by The Express Tribune. Further amendments in sub-section (2) specify that any detention ordered by the armed or civil armed forces must be investigated by a Joint Investigation Team. This team would include a police officer not below the rank of SP, and members from intelligence, military, and other enforcement agencies. Additionally, a new provision (2A) declares that these powers under sub-sections (1) and (2) will remain in effect for three years from the enactment of the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Act, 2025. Pakistani Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar clarified that this law is meant to be used selectively and includes checks. "A clause is being added to the bill stating that there are solid reasons for arrest. The arrested person will have to be presented before a magistrate within 24 hours, and a clause has also been included to be enforceable for a specific period," he stated, as quoted by The Express Tribune. Reacting to the passage of the amendment, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan criticised the move, calling it a repeat of earlier legislation that infringes on "fundamental human rights". (ANI) ISKCON has arranged compensation and complete rehabilitation for 18 families affected by attacks on Hindu homes in Bangladesh's northern Gangachara Upazila of Rangpur district, ISKCON said in a statement. ISKCON has provided a bed, cooking utensils, all the items for worship, and a Geeta, cooking items include 15 kg rice, one kg dal, two kg flour, one kg sugar, two litres soybean oil, one litre mustard oil, two salt packets, 200 grams turmeric powder, 200 grams chilli powder, 200 grams jeera powder, and 200 grams coriander powder for each family, it added. In another incident that took place in Taraganj, Rangpur, Bangladesh, ISKCON paid 25,000 taka to the family of the victims of the mob lynching of Ruplal Rabi Das and his son-in-law, Pradeep Rabidas, the statement said. Present at that time were the General Secretary of ISKCON Bangladesh, Charuchandra Das; Jyotishwar Gaur Das; Treasurer Bimala Prasad Das; Chairman, Devotee Care; along with officials of ISKCON Rangpur Division. Earlier on Friday, the Government of India raised at least 334 major incidents of violence against minorities with Pakistan and flagged 3,582 such cases in Bangladesh since 2021, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh told Parliament. In a reply to a Rajya Sabha query, Singh said the government regularly "follows" reports of violence and atrocities against religious minorities in neighbouring countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. On Bangladesh, Singh said that at least 3,582 incidents of violence against Hindus and other minorities have been reported since 2021. "The Government of India has shared its concerns on the matter with the Government of Bangladesh, including at the highest levels, with the expectation that the Government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and welfare of Hindus and other minorities," he said. Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch has reported that Bangladesh's interim government, led by Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus, is struggling to implement promised human rights reforms a year after mass protests toppled Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule. It said arbitrary detentions and politically motivated arrests continue, while security sector reform remains stalled. Mob and political violence remain high. In July, a mob damaged at least 14 homes belonging to Hindus in the Rangpur district, while attacks on minorities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts persist. Although the government has set up 11 reform commissions and ratified the UN Convention on Enforced Disappearances, accountability for past abuses is slow, with security forces resisting investigations. (ANI) At least 27 migrants and refugees drowned on Thursday following a tragic shipwreck off the coast of the Italian island of Lampedusa, according to a statement by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, marking yet another deadly incident in the perilous Central Mediterranean migration route. In a post on X, Grandi stated that over 700 refugees and migrants have lost their lives in the Central Mediterranean so far in 2025, while emphasising the urgent need to enhance all aspects of the response to deal with such situations. "At least 27 people have drowned in a tragic shipwreck near #Lampedusa. Over 700 refugees and migrants have now died in 2025 in the Central Mediterranean. All responses -- rescue at sea, safe pathways, helping transit countries and addressing root causes -- must be strengthened," Grandi stated in his post. According to UNHCR Italy's Communication Officer, the agency is currently assisting survivors from the wreck. "Deep anguish over yet another shipwreck off the coast of Lampedusa, where UNHCR is now assisting the survivors. Twenty bodies have reportedly been recovered, with an equal number of people missing," the officer said in a post on X. "So far this year, 675 deaths have been recorded in the Central Mediterranean. Strengthen legal pathways," he added. Flavio Di Giacomo, spokesperson for the Coordination Office for the Mediterranean of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), described the harrowing events that led to the disaster. Taking to X, Giacomo stated that around 95 people had departed from Libya on two boats, but after one vessel started taking on water, all passengers were forced to board the other. Unfortunately, this boat capsized due to severe overloading. "Tragic shipwreck off the coast of #Lampedusa. About 95 people departed from Libya on two boats; after one took on water, everyone boarded the other, which then capsized due to overloading," he stated in the post. Currently, 60 survivors have been rescued, while approximately 35 people are feared dead or missing, Giacomo added. According to the data from the Coordination Office for the Mediterranean of IOM in Italy, at least 962 migrants had died so far this year as of August 13, along the Mediterranean routes, with 675 dead in the Central Mediterranean, 155 in the Western Mediterranean and 132 in the Eastern Mediterranean. As per Euronews, citing UNHCR data, in the first half of 2025, Italy received 30,060 refugees and migrants by sea, marking a 16 per cent rise compared to the same period last year. Since 2014, the Central Mediterranean route has been identified by the IOM as the deadliest in the world, with over 25,260 people reported dead or missing, with many lost at sea. The IOM warns the actual death toll could be higher, as numerous cases go unreported. Most fatalities involve small boats departing from Tunisia and Libya. As per Euronews, one of the Mediterranean's deadliest shipwrecks occurred on October 3, 2013, when a boat leaving Libya capsized near Lampedusa, killing at least 368 people. The tragedy sparked widespread outrage, prompting Italy to establish an annual day of remembrance for victims of that disaster and other fatal maritime accidents that year. (ANI) According to Geo News, Bilawal was speaking at the inauguration of the new Hub Canal near Karachi, where he mocked Shehbaz's widely touted "Shehbaz speed", known for rapid development in Lahore, while saying that Karachi had instead been subjected to "Shehbaz slow". The PPP chairman's remarks have exposed a friction within the coalition government, where his party remains a key but increasingly critical ally of Shehbaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). While the PML-N recently secured a simple majority in Pakistan's National Assembly after a Supreme Court ruling on reserved seats, PPP leaders have suggested that their cooperation should not be taken for granted, Geo News reported. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Adviser to the PM Rana Sanaullah have both insisted the coalition remains intact, but Bilawal's latest criticism points to widening cracks. At the Hub Canal ceremony, Bilawal announced that the new canal would bring an additional 100 million gallons per day (mgd) of water to Karachi, a lifeline for the Central, East, and Kimari districts. He added that a separate plan had been prepared to boost water supply to Lyari and that repair work on the old Hub Canal was underway, Geo News reported. Highlighting PPP's governance at the municipal level, Bilawal claimed that for the first time, local governments in Karachi and Hyderabad are focused on service delivery rather than stoking ethnic and political division. He also praised the cooperation between provincial and city administrations, Geo News reported. The PPP chief further applauded Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah's efforts to install a desalination plant in Karachi. (ANI) According to Khaama Press, police officials in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province confirmed the arrest of a significant number of Afghan nationals lacking legal status, as well as several suspected armed individuals, during targeted operations across the city. The raids, which took place in the Kacha Garhi, Nasir Bagh, and Regi areas, also resulted in the seizure of weapons and narcotics, the authorities claimed. Although the exact number of those detained has not been disclosed, officials stated that the crackdown is part of an ongoing campaign aimed explicitly at undocumented Afghan residents in Pakistan, Khaama Press reported. In recent months, Pakistani authorities have intensified arrests and forced deportations of Afghan migrants, often conducting aggressive house-to-house searches. The campaign has gained momentum amid the ongoing suspension of visa renewals for Afghan nationals, a move that has rendered many previously documented residents illegal overnight. On August 13, the Pakistani Federal Government established a high-level committee comprising police and intelligence personnel tasked with locating and deporting Afghans who still possess Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. The panel is mandated to coordinate data-sharing across departments to identify and act against Afghan nationals remaining in the country, Khaama Press reported. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has voiced serious concern over Pakistan's recent actions, noting that thousands of Afghans have been left homeless and vulnerable. Many have reported being harassed, threatened, or mistreated by law enforcement during the operations. According to Khaama Press, Human rights groups have warned that Pakistan's escalating crackdown may worsen the humanitarian crisis already affecting displaced Afghan communities, increasing their insecurity and depriving them of livelihoods and basic protections. Meanwhile, over 30,000 Afghan nationals illegally residing in Pakistan's Quetta division were repatriated to Afghanistan in less than a month, Dawn reported, citing official sources. 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. (ANI) Numerous protests were held in various areas of the Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) region on Wednesday, the Dawn reported. The sit-in conducted by the PoGB police outside the Chief Minister's House has now reached its third day. The police are demonstrating to urge the authorities to raise their allowance in line with the budget for 2025-26. Officers from other districts, including those assigned to protect Chinese nationals in Chilas, also joined the sit-in in Gilgit. While the daily allowance for PoGB police was raised from PKR 440 to PKR 880 in the budget, a notification has yet to be issued. The protesting officers claim they have been fighting for their rights for months, noting that a protest outside the Chief Minister's Secretariat was previously called off two weeks ago after the government guaranteed that their concerns would be addressed within 14 days, according to the Dawn report. On Monday, PoGB police initiated departmental proceedings against personnel accused of "misconduct". An official order states that 63 officials are being dismissed from service in the initial phase. These actions were reportedly decided during a disciplinary committee meeting. At the same time, various legal associations in PoGB organised a protest and boycotted court proceedings in Gilgit, Skardu, Ghizer, and several other districts. Lawyers have been advocating for their rights for the past ten months. A joint meeting involving the Gilgit-Baltistan Bar Council, the Supreme Court Bar Association GB, the High Court Bar Association GB, and the District Bar Association Gilgit was held, according to a statement by Dawn. The meeting reached a unanimous agreement that PoGB lawyers would stage a strike and refrain from appearing in any courts across the region until their demands are addressed. One significant demand from the lawyers is the appointment of judges to the vacant seats in the GB Supreme Appellate Court. The meeting expressed dissatisfaction with the government's inability to fulfil the lawyers' demands following multiple strikes and protests. The lawyers referred to the lack of action as "a conspiracy against the people of PoGB", as reported by Dawn. Another key demand from the lawyers involves extending the Lawyers Protection Act to PoGB by the federal government, which they argue is crucial for safeguarding their safety and professional rights. The lawyers requested the advertisement of available civil judge positions and insisted that judicial magistrate roles be distinct from civil judge roles, consistent with practices in other regions of the country, with appointments being made from the legal profession based on merit, as highlighted by the Dawn report. Lawyers have pointed out that the PoGB Supreme Appellate Court has been functioning with just one judge for the past seven years. According to regulations, a single judge cannot handle all cases, leading to thousands of essential cases remaining unresolved. In addition, protests regarding power shortages took place in Sikandarabad and Nagar, where demonstrators obstructed the Diamer section of the KKH. Similar demonstrations were also organised in Nagar Khas and other regions, as cited by the Dawn report. (ANI) Baloch National Movement's human rights department, Paank, made a chilling revelation of the dangers being faced by Baloch activists in Pakistan. It said on Thursday that in the first 6 months of 2025 alone, Paank documented 785 enforced disappearances and 121 killings. Sharing the details in a post on X, Paank highlighted that Baloch activists face grave danger in Pakistan -- abductions, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings are widespread. It expressed concern over the detention and the possible deportation of a young Baloch activist, Shabar Jamaldini, in a post on X and urged all rights defenders to urgently intervene to prevent this deportation. https://x.com/paank_bnm/status/1955789234188771599 In another post, it condemned the enforced disappearance of an academic and his young scholar brother, demanding their immediate and unconditional release. It wrote on X, "Paank strongly condemns the enforced disappearance of Dr. Usman Qazi, a PhD holder and Assistant Professor at BUITEMS, and his younger brother, Jibran Ahmed, an MPhil Economics student. Both are residents of Nasirabad, district Kech. Around 3:00 a.m. on August 12, 2025, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) forcibly disappeared the two brothers from their residence in Afnan Town, Quetta. The abduction of an academic and his young scholar brother is deeply alarming and utterly unacceptable. PaanK calls for their immediate and unconditional release, holding the authorities accountable for this grave violation." https://x.com/paank_bnm/status/1955906808322675005 Enforced disappearances in Balochistan have been a grave human rights issue for decades, rooted in the region's long-standing political and ethnic tensions. For the last several decades, Baloch nationalists, students, activists, and intellectuals have been targeted, allegedly by state security agencies, for demanding greater autonomy or rights. Thousands have reportedly gone missing without due process, and many remain unaccounted for. Families are often left without information, legal recourse, or justice. Human rights organisations, both local and international, have condemned these actions, calling them violations of international law. (ANI) 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 India on Thursday hit out at Pakistan over recent nuclear war threats by its Army Chief, cautioning that any misadventure would have "painful consequences" as demonstrated in the past. "We have seen several statements and reports regarding the continuing pattern of reckless warmongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during the weekly briefing. "Pakistan would be well advised to temper its rhetoric as any misadventure will have painful consequences, as was demonstrated recently," he added, referring to India's 'Operation Sindoor' after the deadly attack on innocent civilians in Jammu Kashmir's Pahalgam, which took 26 lives. This comes after Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir, during his second and recent visit to the United States, threatened India with nuclear war, warning that Islamabad could plunge the region into a catastrophic conflict and "take almost half of the world" down if faced with an existential threat in the future. "It is a well-known modus operandi of Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures," Jaiswal said. Earlier this week, the MEA had issued a strong statement in response to Munir's remarks, calling nuclear sabre-rattling "Pakistan's stock-in-trade" and highlighting "the irresponsibility inherent in such remarks" while questioning the integrity of nuclear command and control in a state "where the military is hand-in-glove with terrorist groups." India had slammed remarks of Pakistani Chief of Army Staff during his visit to the United States in which he had made nuclear threat. He also said that Islamabad will defend its water rights "at all costs" if India proceeds with dam construction on the Indus River."We will wait for India to build a dam, and when they do so, we will destroy it," Munir told members of the Pakistani-American community in Tampa, Florida, according to a report published today in The Dawn. "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 Pakistan's stock-in-trade," the MEA official spokesperson said. The spokesperson added, "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." (ANI) The authorities have enforced strict security protocols, which include a nighttime prohibition on public transportation, the halting of train services, a shutdown of mobile internet, and the sealing off of entry and exit points to major cities in Balochistan, as reported by The Balochistan Post (TBP). These measures have resulted in a curfew-like situation throughout Balochistan, leading to considerable hardships for its inhabitants. The transport department has announced a statewide ban on public transportation from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m., warning that companies violating this directive will have their route permits revoked. This ban applies to national highways as well as all urban and rural areas in Balochistan. As highlighted by the TBP report, thousands rely on public transportation for daily travel between Quetta, Karachi, Makran, and other locations in Pakistan. The restrictions have left many individuals stranded. Patients who typically travel to Karachi for medical treatment are encountering severe challenges due to the inadequate healthcare facilities in Balochistan. Protests have erupted in response to the transport ban. Inter-provincial train operations from Quetta remain halted for the fourth consecutive day, with Pakistan Railways announcing that the suspension will persist until 14 August following a bombing incident involving the Jaffar Express in Mastung's Dasht region. In March, this same train was attacked in a hijacking event claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army, leading to the deaths of several members of Pakistan's security forces. With road and rail travel limited, many citizens are opting for air travel, causing a dramatic surge in fares. The cost of a ticket to Islamabad, which usually ranges from 18,000 to 20,000 rupees, has soared to over 50,000 rupees, as reported by TBP. Since 6 August, 3G and 4G mobile internet services have been completely suspended across all 36 districts of Balochistan, with the blackout anticipated to last until 31 August. Balochistan already ranks lowest in online infrastructure in the country, with 60 per cent of its territory lacking internet access. More than half of the region's estimated 15 million residents depend entirely on mobile data, while fixed-line internet users number only about 70,000, according to the TBP report. The internet outage has adversely affected freelancers, individuals managing online businesses, food delivery workers, students, and traders. Mobile banking and online payment systems have ceased operations, and telemedicine services have been disrupted. The Human Rights Commission of Balochistan has denounced these measures as a grave infringement of civil liberties and fundamental rights. In Mastung district, banking services have also been suspended, worsening the situation for residents, as noted by TBP. In the port city of Gwadar, all entry and exit points have been sealed off for the last three days due to security issues and arrangements for Pakistan's national day celebrations. The streets are deserted, traffic is scarce, and residents are restricted to their homes. Locals and human rights advocates contend that the government is penalising the public by curtailing essential services rather than ensuring safety, as stated in the TBP report. (ANI) The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday reiterated its stance for a two-state solution amid the recent developments in Gaza and gave a call for the continued supply of humanitarian aid, along with the release of hostages and a ceasefire. In his weekly media briefing, the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Randhir Jaiswal, upon being asked about reports of starvation from Gaza and Israel expanding its "military escalation" in the region, said, "Our position on the conflict has been clear and consistent. There has been no change. We continue to call for a ceasefire, unconditional release for hostages, continued supply of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, and we stand for a two-state solution. So, there is no change. Our position is clear and consistent on this issue". Al Jazeera in a news report today cited Gaza's Health Ministry to cite that four more hunger-related deaths were recorded over the past 24 hours, raising the total number starvation deaths to 239 in Gaza.. Earlier today, Israel's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories Judea and Samaria and towards the Gaza Strip (COGAT) rejected in a post on X claims of Israel blocking humanitarian aid into Gaza. It said, "The reality is entirely the opposite of the claims that were published. Israel acts to allow and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, while Hamas seeks to exploit the aid to strengthen its military capabilities and consolidate its control over the population." It further added, "As evidence of this, approximately 300 humanitarian aid trucks enter the Gaza Strip every day through organizations registered under the new mechanism." https://x.com/cogatonline/status/1955880045437747692 It also shared updates on August 13 on how close to 380 trucks entered Gaza through the Kerem Shalom and Zikim crossings, with over 400 trucks collected and distributed by the UN and international organisations. https://x.com/cogatonline/status/1955852508477211086 COGAT emphasised that it would continue expanding its efforts to facilitate humanitarian aid for the civilian population of Gaza. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to visit Moscow later this month for the 26th session of the India-Russia intergovernmental commission Addressing a media briefing on Thursday in the national capital, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "EAM Dr S Jaishankar is expected to visit Moscow for the 26th session of the India-Russia intergovernmental commission on trade, economic, technological and cultural cooperation. This is to happen later this month. We will share with you further updates at the appropriate time." On Wednesday, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a post on X said that the country's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will meet with Jaishankar on August 21 in Moscow. 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 Deputy Director of the Information and Press Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Alexey Fadeyev told a press briefing in Moscow that the heads of the foreign policy departments will discuss "the most important issues on the bilateral agenda, as well as current aspects of interaction in international formats," Russian state media had reported. The development comes amid strain in India's ties with the US over New Delhi's procurement of crude oil from Russia. Last week US President Donald Trump in an executive order imposed an additional 25-per cent tariff on Indian goods as a penalty for New Delhi's purchase of Russian oil. The additional duties raised the overall tariff on India to 50 per cent. Meanwhile, the MEA spokesperson while responding to a query on whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be visiting the United States later this year to attend the UNGA said, "It has not yet been decided if Prime Minister Narendra Modi would be going for the UN General Assembly or not". Earlier on Monday, after a telephonic conversation took place between PM Modi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian President wrote in a post on X, "We agreed to plan a personal meeting in September during the UN General Assembly and to work on an exchange of visits." https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1954891726134378999 (ANI) South Korea's newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cho Hyun, will be visiting India from August 15 to 17, as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The MEA said in a media advisory on Thursday that the South Korean Foreign Minister would arrive in New Delhi on Friday evening and meet External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening strategic cooperation between India and South Korea in areas such as: semiconductors, green hydrogen, trade and maritime security. Cho Hyun's visit is part of India's efforts to boost its engagement with Asia, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. He was previously India's ambassador from 2015 to 2017 and has expertise in multilateral diplomacy. Cho Hyun recently spoke with Dr. Jaishankar, discussing deepening bilateral ties between the two countries. Earlier on July 28, in a post on X, EAM Jaishankar had conveyed his best wishes to the South Korean counterpart for a successful tenure. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1949717473168679371 On July 21, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar congratulated Cho Hyun on his appointment as the new Foreign Minister of South Korea. In a post on X, he expressed confidence in working together to further strengthen the ties between the two countries and toward achieving a Special Strategic Partnership between New Delhi and Seoul. Earlier in July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had received a delegation of special envoys from South Korea and highlighted the completion of 10 years of India-South Korea partnership. He underlined that the close collaboration between the two countries plays a key role in the Indo-Pacific region. On the same day, the EAM also met a delegation of special envoys from the Republic of Korea (RoK), led by former Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum, which was visiting India and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties in key areas including economy, technology, defence, maritime security, and people-to-people exchanges.The meeting comes amid renewed efforts from both sides to boost cooperation across sectors such as green hydrogen, shipbuilding, investment, semiconductors, and regional security, especially in the Indo-Pacific. The visit had come after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada last month. Both leaders expressed commitment to working together in trade, investment, green energy, and emerging technology sectors. (ANI) India on Thursday firmly rejected the recent award issued by the Hague-based Court of Arbitration under the Indus Waters Treaty, citing the court's lack of jurisdiction, legitimacy, and competence. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India's position on the matter remains unchanged, emphasising that the treaty stands suspended following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, that claimed the lives of 26 tourists. India has never accepted the legality, legitimacy, or competence of the so-called Court of Arbitration. Its pronouncements are therefore without jurisdiction, devoid of legal standing, and have no bearing on India's rights of utilisation of waters," Jaiswal said while responding to a question by ANI during a weekly media briefing. India accused Pakistan of manipulating the treaty process to deflect from its support of terrorism, labelling the arbitration a "desperate attempt" to avoid accountability. India exercised its sovereign right under international law to place the treaty in abeyance, linking its reinstatement to Pakistan's verifiable cessation of cross-border terrorism support. India also rejected Pakistan's misleading references to the ruling given by the Court. MEA said, "India also categorically rejects Pakistan's selective and misleading references to the so-called "award." The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, governs the sharing of the Indus River's waters between India and Pakistan. Recent disputes have arisen over India's hydroelectric projects on the Western Rivers, with Pakistan objecting to certain design elements. The remarks came after the Court of Arbitration, empanelled in 2022 under the Indus Waters Treaty, delivered an "Award on Issues of General Interpretation" on August 8, 2025, in a case initiated by Pakistan over India's Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir. The arbitration was initiated by Pakistan against India, concerning the interpretation and application of the treaty to certain design elements of run-of-river hydroelectric plants that India is permitted to construct on the Western Rivers. Pakistan initiated arbitration proceedings against India in 2022, seeking clarification on certain design elements of run-of-river hydroelectric plants. India did not participate in the proceedings, objecting to the competence of the Court. The award has significant implications for the relationship between India and Pakistan, particularly with regard to their use of the Indus River system. The Court held that its awards are final and binding on both parties and have a controlling legal effect on subsequent neutral experts and courts of arbitration. The Court determined that the object and purpose of the treaty is to delimit the rights and obligations of India and Pakistan regarding the Western Rivers, with a focus on mutual cooperation and effective dispute resolution. The Court provided guidance on the design requirements for run-of-river hydroelectric plants, including the size and location of low-level outlets, gated spillways, and intakes for turbines. In its ruling, the Court stated that while India must "let flow" the waters of the Western Rivers for Pakistan's unrestricted use, certain exceptions exist, such as hydroelectric power generation, which must adhere strictly to Treaty specifications. "There are certain specified exceptions to this rule, including in relation to the generation of hydroelectric power, but these exceptions must be strictly construed: the design and operation of run-of-river hydroelectric plants must be strictly to the requirements in the Treaty, " the ruling said. It added that such disputes should be addressed through the Treaty's notification, objection, and resolution procedures. The Court also noted that India had not participated in the proceedings and had repeatedly challenged its jurisdiction, but claimed that India had been kept fully informed and had the opportunity to take part at any stage. India, however, has consistently maintained that the arbitration is "illegal" and "in brazen violation" of the Treaty. "India has never recognised the existence in law of this so-called Court of Arbitration, and India's position has all along been that the constitution of this so-called arbitral body is in itself a serious breach of the Indus Waters Treaty and consequently any proceedings before this forum and any award or decision taken by it are also for that reason illegal and per se void, " MEA said a statement. On June 27, the MEA had already dismissed a "supplemental award" issued by the Court. "The illegal Court of Arbitration, purportedly constituted under the Indus Waters Treaty 1960, albeit in brazen violation of it, has issued what it characterises as a "supplemental award" on its competence concerning the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, " MEA said in the statement. "This latest charade at Pakistan's behest is yet another desperate attempt by it to escape accountability for its role as the global epicenter of terrorism. Pakistan's resort to this fabricated arbitration mechanism is consistent with its decades-long pattern of deception and manipulation of international forums, according to MEA. While the August 8 Award does not apply its findings directly to the Kishenganga or Ratle projects, the Court said it remains seized of those matters and will determine next steps after consulting the parties. The five-member Court is chaired by Professor Sean D. Murphy of the United States, with members from Belgium, the United States, Jordan, and Australia. The Award was unanimous except for one section on maximum pondage, decided by a 4-1 majority. The Court will determine the next steps in the proceedings after seeking the views of the parties. India accused Pakistan of manipulating international legal mechanisms to divert global attention from its support of cross-border terrorism. The MEA described the court's proceedings as a "charade at Pakistan's behest" and reiterated that Pakistan must permanently renounce terrorism before India considers resuming its treaty obligations. India argued that the PCA was illegally constituted under the treaty and that its ruling is invalid. India maintains that the dispute should be resolved through the Neutral Expert mechanism, as stipulated in the treaty. (ANI) India on Thursday dismissed the Human Rights Report recently released by the US State Department, calling it "deeply biased" and a reflection of "poor understanding of India's democratic framework, pluralistic society, and robust institutional mechanisms for protecting human rights." Addressing the weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that India does not attach any credence to such biased assessments and remains focused on advancing human rights through inclusive governance and development. "As we have always maintained, these reports are a mix of imputations, misrepresentations and one-sided projections that demonstrate a poor understanding of India's democratic framework, pluralistic society and robust institutional mechanisms for protecting human rights. We do not attach any credence to such biased assessments. We remain focused on advancing human rights of our people through inclusive governance and development," said Jaiswal. The MEA spokesperson reiterated that India's democratic framework and institutional mechanisms are robust and well-equipped to protect human rights, dismissing the US report's findings. The United States on August 12 had issued a country report on human rights practices featuring reports on "all countries receiving assistance and all United Nations member states to the U.S. Congress in accordance with the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and the Trade Act of 1974." While speaking about the India-US ties, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges, as we had said earlier, and we remain focused on the substantive agenda that the two countries have committed to, and we hope that the relationship will continue to move forward based on mutual respect and shared interests" US President Donald Trump had signed an Executive Order imposing an additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India. 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. Terming the United States' move to impose additional tariffs on India over its oil imports from Russia as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had previously declared that New Delhi will take "all actions necessary to protect its national interests. Speaking on India-US defence partnership, the MEA Spokesperson shared that a US Defence Policy team is expected to visit Delhi in mid-August to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. Moreover, the 21st edition of the joint military exercise 'Yudh Abhyas' will also take place in Alaska later this month. He told the media, "The India-U.S. defence partnership, underpinned by foundational defence agreements, is an important pillar of the bilateral partnership. This robust cooperation has strengthened across several domains. We are expecting a U.S. Defence Policy Team to be in Delhi in mid-August. The 21st edition of the joint military exercise - 'Yudh Abhyas' is also expected to take place later this month in Alaska. Both sides remain engaged to convene the 2+2 Intersessional meeting at the working-level towards the end of this month. As far as the question of defence acquisition is concerned, the procurement process continues as per established procedures." Earlier in July, the top defence officials from India and the United States held key bilateral talks during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, where they explored ways to deepen strategic military cooperation, regional security coordination, and operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific. The discussions focused on enhancing defence collaboration, including future operational opportunities and joint efforts to uphold peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, according to the Integrated Defence Staff. (ANI) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said that it has strongly taken up the cases of acts of violence against Indian nationals in Ireland. Noting that the Embassy is in touch with the victims, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that they are in touch with the community members and extending all possible support. The MEA Spokesperson made the remarks during the weekly media briefing here in New Delhi on Thursday. While answering a media query on the "racial attacks" perpetuated against Indians in Canada and Ireland, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "There have been several cases of violence against Indian nationals in Ireland. You would have seen several of these reports. We have strongly taken up this matter with the Irish authorities in Dublin as well as with the Embassy here. We note that both the President of Ireland and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister have publicly condemned these deplorable acts of violence. Our embassy in Dublin is in touch with the victims. They are also in touch with our community members, and is extending all possible support. We have also recently issued an advisory for Indian nationals resident in Ireland, as you would have seen. We hope that the issues will settle." In light of the recent attacks on members of the Indian community, Ireland's President, Michael D Higgins, on Tuesday said in a statement, "The recent despicable attacks on members of the Indian community stand in stark contradiction to the values that we as a people hold dear...Such acts diminish all of us and obscure the immeasurable benefits the people of India have brought to the life of this country." On Monday, Ireland's Foreign Minister Simon Harris met the members of the Indian community and condemned the "despicable acts of violence and racism". https://x.com/SimonHarrisTD/status/1954918166863155259 On August 1, the Indian Embassy in Ireland had advised all citizens to take precautions and be aware of their surroundings for their security following a recent increase in physical attacks against Indian nationals in the country. Local media reports from Canada had emerged where a video purportedly showed an Indian couple facing racial harassment. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during the weekly briefing, "On Canada, again, as far as safety and security of our nationals are concerned, we take them very seriously. Our mission as well as our consulates are in close touch with the community members. Whenever an issue arises that needs to be flagged for security purposes, we address it. We take it to the local law enforcement authorities for appropriate action." According to the official website of Peterborough Police, an arrest was made in connection with the incident. According to the police, an investigation into the incident, which occurred on July 29, 2025, was initiated on August 8. The investigation included viewing videos, some of which were circulating on social media, which included hate-based language. "As a result of the investigation and following consultation with the Crown Attorney's office, an 18-year-old male from the City of Kawartha Lakes has been charged with Utter threats - Cause Death or Bodily Harm. The accused has been released on an undertaking and will appear in court on September 16, 2025. While there is no specific charge for hate crime in Canada that applies to this incident, there is a hate crime element to this case, and that will be addressed as the case moves through the court process", the statement said. (ANI) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday dismissed suggestions that India is working towards de-dollarisation within BRICS, saying such a move is "not part of India's financial agenda". "We have made our position very clear on this issue earlier as well. De-dollarisation is not part of India's financial agenda," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at the weekly media briefing when asked about Brazilian President Lula's statement that BRICS nations may consider an alternative currency amid tension with the United States over steep tariffs on BRICS nations. The remarks came in response to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's recent comments that BRICS members could "discuss" creating a trade currency among themselves. Explaining his position, Lula said the idea should be tested, adding, "We can discuss in the BRICS. There is a need to have a trade currency between us and the BRICS. I do not reject it because we must test; if the testing fails, then I would be wrong. But someone has to convince me that I am wrong," Russia Today reported. The comments follow Lula's confirmation that he will visit India in January with a delegation. When asked if PM Modi had invited Lula following their recent phone conversation, Jaisawal said, "We had gone to Rio to attend the BRICS summit. We also paid a state visit to Brasilia. And at that time, the Prime Minister, as is normal in bilateral ties, invited President Lula to visit India at an appropriate time." Lula's remarks on a BRICS trade currency come amid fresh trade frictions involving both India and Brazil with the United States. Last week, US President Donald Trump, in an executive order, imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods taking total duty to 50 per cent, over New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian crude oil. Last month, Trump also announced a 50 per cent tariff on imports from Brazil starting August 1, while calling the trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro a "witch hunt" that "should not take place." India, however, has maintained that it will continue engaging with BRICS members on issues of shared interest while safeguarding its economic and strategic priorities. "India is a member of the BRICS group, and we continue to remain in touch with member countries to discuss issues of shared interest, MEA spokesperson Jaiswal added. India hasn't taken any steps to actively reduce its reliance on the US dollar in international trade, according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Instead, India aims to "derisk" its trade by diversifying its trade partners, exploring alternative payment systems, and reducing reliance on a single currency. India has signed agreements with countries like Russia, the UAE, and the Maldives to settle trades in local currencies, reducing the need for dollar conversion and exchange rate risks. India is also opposed to having a common currency with China and other BRICS nations, citing geographical differences and a lack of economic integration. (ANI) 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. India and China have resumed talks on border trade through all designated trade points after a five-year hiatus. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said that both countries are working to facilitate the resumption of trade through designated points, specifically: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. "This has been part of the India-China conversation in several of our meetings. We have remained engaged with the Chinese side to facilitate the resumption of border trade through all the designated trade points, namely Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh, and Nathula Pass in Sikkim," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said at the weekly briefing. These border trade points were established through bilateral agreements and have been closed since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened tensions between the two nations. The talks are part of a broader effort to normalise relations between India and China, which have been strained since the deadly border clashes in Galwan Valley in 2020. India and China are also discussing the resumption of direct flights between the two countries. While the economic value of border trade is relatively small, its resumption would serve as a confidence-building measure to ease border tensions. The talks coincide with increased trade friction between India and the US, with the US imposing tariffs on Indian goods. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is scheduled to visit India on August 18 to hold border talks with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. 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. (ANI) Former Niti Aayog chief and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant on Thursday urged India and China to come together in joint ventures to power growth. This would enable not only 'Make in India' but also accelerate 'Manufacture in India'. While responding to how India should navigate the dilemma of dealing with China, which is the second-largest economy, despite being a large trading partner, Amitabh Kant told ANI that it is in India's economic interest that instead of importing from China, the country should aim at joint ventures with Chinese companies. Kant said, "We do about 120 billion worth of imports from China. Despite having a very adverse relationship with Japan, China continued to maintain a very close economic relationship with Japan. China has a very adverse political relationship with Taiwan. Yet the biggest investors in China are Taiwan and the Taiwanese businessmen. To my mind, it is in our economic interest that instead of importing from China, we should get Chinese to do joint ventures with Indian companies on a minority stake and do manufacturing in India, and that will enable India to do both input manufacturing and component manufacturing and accelerate the process of Make in India and accelerate the process of Manufacture in India, and that to my mind is a long term answer to economic growth". Speaking about India's growth trajectory, Kant told ANI, "The key is how do we take India from a USD 4 trillion to a USD 35 trillion economy by the time we become 100? That's the vision of the Prime Minister. We need to provide momentum for growth. We need to grow at 8 to 9 per cent per annum, year after year. Instead of importing, we should focus on manufacturing in India with China. That will create jobs in India." On being asked about realpolitik and whether this can go hand in hand, Kant told ANI, "I think we should revisit Press note 3 as has been recommended by Niti Ayog and some other bodies, and I think we've imposed Press note 3 at the time of Doklam. Since then, there's been a lot of change in geopolitics". He reiterated, "We should look forward to a collaborative manufacturing partnership with China in India." China and India had both faced the brunt of the tariffs imposed by the United States. CNN reported on Tuesday, citing CNBC, that the United States and China agreed to pause tariff hikes on each other's goods for an additional 90 days, according to an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Monday. It further mentioned that in a joint statement with the US, China confirmed the 90-day trade talks extension and noted that it would maintain the 10 per cent tariffs it has imposed on American goods during that period. The statement was based on the bilateral negotiations that took place in Sweden last month, as per CNN. Earlier, US President Donald Trump had signed an Executive Order imposing an additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India. 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. Terming the United States' move to impose additional tariffs on India over its oil imports from Russia as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had previously declared that New Delhi will take "all actions necessary to protect its national interests. China voiced its opposition to the US announcement of tariffs against India. The Spokesperson of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guo Jiakun, in his press briefing, while responding to media queries, called the act an 'abuse of tariffs'. When asked about comments on Trump's executive order to place an additional 25 per cent tariff on India for its purchases of Russian oil, he said, "China's opposition to the abuse of tariffs is consistent and clear. China opposes the US politicising tech and trade issues and using them as weapons to maliciously blockade and go after China. The US should earnestly protect the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese nationals." (ANI) Tel Aviv [Israel], August 14 (ANI/TPS): Israel's Foreign Ministry on Thursday welcomed the UN's decision to add Hamas to its "blacklist" of groups committing sexual crimes in armed conflicts, calling it an overdue recognition of atrocities committed since October 7. "Hamas terrorists have committed - and continue to commit - some of the most horrific sexual crimes known to humanity: rape, gang rape, genital mutilation, sexual abuse in captivity. Now, the UN officially recognises this fact," the ministry said. The ministry said the inclusion came after "hard work" by Israeli diplomats, noting that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had initially opposed the move last year. "Today, the UN is expected to send all members of the General Assembly the Secretary-General's report... and the report includes the terrorist organisation Hamas for the first time." The Foreign Ministry stressed that Hamas's listing follows earlier findings by UN Special Envoy on Sexual Violence in Conflict Pramila Patten in early 2024. "The inclusion of Hamas in the blacklist constitutes an international seal of guilt for a grave offense under international law, on the same level as war crimes and crimes against humanity," it said. "These sexual crimes have not stopped, and we know that Hamas terrorists are sexually abusing hostages. Therefore, we continue to demand... the immediate release of all hostages and the disarmament of Hamas," the ministry added. It also vowed to counter "false slander" and "blood libels" alleging Israeli culpability. The statement came after Guterres announced Tuesday that Hamas would join the blacklist of countries and groups credibly suspected of systematic sexual violence in armed conflict. He also warned that Israel itself was "on notice" for possible inclusion next year. In a letter to Israel's UN envoy Danny Danon, Guterres cited "significant concern" over documented patterns of abuse and said Israel's refusal to grant inspectors access had hindered verification. Freed hostages have told stories of sexual assault, including captors touching their private parts, threatening them with rape and forced marriage, and asking detailed questions about their menstrual cycle. Survivors of the October 7 attack have recounted sexual violence committed by Hamas terrorists at murder scenes, including gang rape, public humiliation, forced nudity, genital abuse, and direct shooting of intimate body parts. Terrorists caught by Israeli forces have admitted to interrogators that they raped and abused Israeli women and men. Legal scholars in July presented the first comprehensive legal framework for prosecuting Hamas terrorists for the systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon of war during the October 7 attack. 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) The UAE Rescue Team is working tirelessly to combat the blazes, maintaining constant field monitoring to ensure the fires are fully contained and to prevent any flare-ups, despite facing challenges such as soaring temperatures. Operations began on Monday in the forests of the Gramsh area and surrounding areas, following the directives of President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to support firefighting efforts in Albania. Equipped with state-of-the-art firefighting tools and technology, the team has been carrying out its mission with high skill and efficiency. Regular meetings between the UAE Rescue Team and Albanian officials are ongoing to assess the evolving situation, monitor the fire zones closely, and develop strategies to accelerate containment and extinguishing operations. (ANI/ WAM) High Commissioner of Singapore to India, Simon Wong, extended greetings to the country on the eve of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. In a post on X on Thursday, HC Wong congratulated India and wished for stronger ties as the two countries commemorate the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties. "Happy 79th Independence Day India! As close partners, we value our friendship and look forward to even stronger ties ahead as we commemorate the 60th anniversary of our bilateral ties. Wishing all our Indian friends a joyful celebration!-HC Wong", the post on X said. https://x.com/SGinIndia/status/1955988045175644369 On Wednesday, President Droupadi Murmu said that Singapore is a key partner in India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision and Indo-Pacific Vision and the two countries have a strong partnership in the areas of trade, investment, defence, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges. The President made the remarks during a meeting with the ministerial Delegation from Singapore, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry of Singapore Gan Kim Yong. The delegation, which is in Delhi for the third meeting of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR), called on the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Also on Thursday, the Slovak Ambassador to India extended his heartfelt greetings for India's 79th Independence Day on August 15. https://x.com/RobertMaxian/status/1955942957993132451 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. 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. (ANI) BEDFORD The Bedford County Sheriffs Office plans to purchase $150,000 in equipment that will assist in forensic crime scene investigations after receiving authorization this week from the county board of supervisors. The board voted unanimously Monday to direct county staff to contract with Leica Geosystems, Inc. to purchase two 3D laser scanners, one handheld and the other on a tripod, at a cost of $146,870. The money is provided through an Operation Ceasefire grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice and no local match was required. Sheriff Mike Miller said the grant includes the purchase of a fingerprint scanner at a cost of $3,130. The intent of this grant is to support technology to prevent violent crime in Virginia, Miller said. We wish to use this to help our investigators process crime scenes in the most efficient way. Hardware maintenance and customer support along with a year of software support and maintenance is expected to cost $7,675 in subsequent years with funding to be provided by the sheriff offices operational budget, according to a staff report to the board. In a separate matter, the board voted to approve purchasing an ambulance at a cost of $468,835 from money set aside in the countys capital improvement project plan. The purchase will include a system that will grab the stretcher, raise the wheels and load into the medic unit, and the power stretcher will rise from the ground position to fully extend using battery-powered hydraulics, according to a report from Janet Blankenship, the countys director of fire and rescue services. Both features will eliminate manual lifting of equipment and patients by personnel, ultimately reducing the number of back injuries and worker compensation claims, according to Blankenship. The purchase will not add to the countys ambulance fleet and will replace an older one that currently responds out of a station in Goode, Blankenship said. The new ambulance is estimated to arrive in 24 to 30 months, and the purchase comes in $45,000 under budget, Blankenship said. In another matter, the board approved a resolution implementing year-end adjustments of more than $1 million for the fiscal year 2024-25 budget that concluded June 30. Refuse service charges were higher than expected in the fiscal year 2025 due to increased tonnage and a $138,606 contingency fund was needed to cover the cost. A supplemental appropriation of $852,388 also was approved for Childrens Services Act (CSA) costs for the department of social services due to an increase in private day placements, another $18,268 was greenlit for the parks and recreation department to cover special event expenses that were higher than anticipated because attendance at the events was more than expected, and just more than $137,000 was authorized for broadband-related uses. The supplemental appropriations approved will increase the general fund budget by $1 million, or 0.7%. In other business, the board approved the countys participation in a proposed direct settlement of opioid-related claims as part of a nationwide settlement of opioid manufacturers and distributors Purdue Pharma and the Sackler Family. Funds received from the settlement must be used for abatement of opioid abuse, such as the countys Family Recovery Court and other similar treatment programs. County Attorney Patrick Skelley said the county doesnt have an allocated amount yet, but Virginias share is $103 million. County staff is conferring with its consultant, Rulo Strategies, to figure out the best ways to use whatever portion of the states share goes to Bedford County, Skelley said. The proceeds will offset a portion of drug treatment and interdiction costs the county undertakes, according to Skelleys report. The countys opioid abatement fund was at $597,901 as of June 30, the report states. In the board comments part of the meeting, Supervisor Bob Davis strongly suggested the board reconfigure the purpose of the Bedford County Economic Development Authority to focus support on existing businesses and not attracting new ones. Davis, who owns Aqua Pros in Bedford, said as a 40-year business owner in the county he finds it difficult to find new employees with skills and he has heard from the EDA it works to bring in new businesses in the interest of providing better-paying jobs. You couldnt spit in my [face] and make me more angry, Davis said, adding he feels his business and others do pay well. He said he is firmly convinced the EDAs mission should be to support existing businesses. Lets play to our strengths and I dont need them to give me money or do anything for me, Im quite content doing my thing, Davis said. Quite honestly, I dont know what the EDA could do for me its kind of like the government just dont hurt me. He said he believes money the EDA spends annually to attract new business and keep up industrial parks could be better spent on the countys landfill and other essential services, and retaining valuable county employees. 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 African startups achieved a two-year funding record in July 2025, raising $550 million across 61 deals worth at least $100,000 each, with Morocco emerging as a notable contributor outside the traditional Big Four markets. The exceptional performance was driven primarily by two Kenyan energy giants: d.light securing $300 million and Sun King raising $156 million. These mega-deals propelled the continent past the $1 billion mark for 2025, reaching this milestone faster than the previous year. Debt financing dominated the landscape, representing 89% of total funds raised, reflecting strong preference for structured financing solutions. However, equity funding gained momentum with $58 million in venture capital, indicating growing investor confidence in African startups growth potential. Morocco demonstrated its increasing attractiveness with ORA Technologies completing a $7.5 million Series A round led by Azur Innovation Fund and three local investors. Founded in 2023 by Omar Alami, the mobile application startup has developed a comprehensive super-app combining peer-to-peer transactions, e-commerce platform, on-demand services, messaging, and social networking features, with a digital wallet in development. The rapid-growth company previously raised $1.9 million in pre-Series A funding just four months earlier, showcasing sustained investor confidence in its business model. This consecutive fundraising success illustrates the maturation of Moroccos startup ecosystem. The funding distribution across 15 countries signals transformation beyond the traditional Big Four markets of Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya. While these established hubs continue leading in volume and value, emerging ecosystems like Morocco are gaining significant traction. This evolution reflects broader changes in African startup financing, characterized by increased local investor participation, hybrid solution development, and geographic diversification of technological innovation across the continent. The Polisario mercenaries have been nurtured deceit, treachery and lies for fifty years by the feckless, corrupt and betrayer Algerian military regime. Both the puppet and the puppeteers continue to live in denial. Though they reached the endgame, they still refuse to concede defeat and accept the failure of their separatist project in the Moroccan Sahara. They know that their days are numbered as the UN is expected to blow this year the final whistle of the Sahara conflict endorsing the Autonomy plan offered by Morocco for the territory under its sovereignty as the ONLY realistic solution. The Polisario backers and sponsors risk serious economic and political sanction as the U.S. Congress is considering a legislation labelling the separatist group a terrorist organization. Instead of accepting reality and repenting for the crimes committed against Moroccos territorial integrity, the delusional Algeria-Polisario tandem gets trapped in their elusive dreams, becoming like a gambling addict who finds it very hard to quit. To hide their predicament and diplomatic setbacks in the Sahara issue, the Algerian rulers have turned their diplomats into criminals hunting down political opponents overseas especially in France where arrest warrants have been launched against Algerian diplomats accused of kidnapping attempt of dissidents. The rogue Algerian diplomacy has also become addicted to smuggling Polisario agents into international events to pump misleading propaganda in order to deflect the public opinion attention from deepening political, social and economic crises. During the latest regional meeting of African political parties convened in Accra, Ghana, a Polisario operative posing as a member of the Algerian delegation sneaked into the conference using the same stratagem made in other international venues. The Polisario has no political parties and has nothing to bring to the table but only hot air and a stumbling block to international partnership. Furthermore, Ghana has not invited the Polisario to the gathering as it has withdrawn recognition of the Algeria-backed separatist militias and cut all ties with them. Both the meeting crashers and their conspirators might get a little psychological reward but they are losing big by tarnishing their own image and credibility before the international community and across the African continent. In 2024, an uninvited Polisario member managed to get in Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) with the help of the Algerian delegation. CCTV footage shows a man, with Algerian diplomatic credentials, taking out from his satchel the name plate of so-called SADR and placing it in front of him in a bid to deceive organizers and attendees, posing as an official delegate. Following the conference crashers scandal, Japanese authorities said they did not invite the Polisario representative to TICAD. Tokyo has reaffirmed supportive stand for Moroccos territorial integrity, stressing that it does not recognize the self-proclaimed SADR and blamed the African Union. This year, Algeria and Polisario are planning another rerun of their pathetic show at the 2025 Tokyo International Conference on African Development due in Yokohama August 20 22. This risks to strain relations with Morocco and derail the conference unless Japan gets tough and takes necessary actions against fraudsters. In July 2024, the AU Executive Council decided to exclude the Polisario from participating in the international meetings gathering African countries and superpowers. The United States, Russia, China, South Korea, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, India, Turkey and many other countries have all rejected the participation of the Polisario separatists in their summits with African leaders. As Morocco is turning the Sahara into a strategic regional gateway linking West Africa to global markets, the Kingdoms allies and friends are showing their cards and throwing their support behind the North African Kingdom, a reliable partner offering a vision of stability, trust, resilience and shared growth. French President Emmanuel Macron has formally acknowledged the repressive violence carried out by French colonial forces in Cameroon during and after the countrys struggle for independence. The admission follows the release of a damning joint historical report by French and Cameroonian historians. In a letter sent to Cameroonian President Paul Biya, Macron recognized that Frances military operations between 1945 and 1971 led to the deaths of tens of thousands of Cameroonians, including nationalist leaders like Ruben Um Nyobe and Paul Momo. The report revealed that France employed brutal tactics including mass killings, forced displacement, internment camps, and militia-backed crackdowns to suppress Cameroons independence movement. There was a war in Cameroon, during which the colonial authorities and the French army carried out repressive violence of several kinds that continued after 1960, Macron stated. It is up to me today to assume the role and responsibility of France in these events. The letter stops short of a formal apology or any mention of reparations, sparking criticism that Macrons efforts fall short of genuine accountability. The acknowledgment comes amid growing scrutiny of Frances colonial legacy across Africa, with similar admissions made regarding its roles in Algeria and the Rwandan genocide. As African nations reassess Frances contemporary influence, Macrons symbolic gestures may mark progress but for many, they remain insufficient steps toward justice. South Sudans government has firmly denied reports of discussions with Israel regarding the possible relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to its territory, following widespread media coverage and public outcry. The denial follows an Associated Press report that cited unnamed sources claiming that Israel and South Sudan were engaged in talks over forcibly transferring Palestinians as part of Israels broader strategy in Gaza. South Sudans Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded Wednesday (13 August), calling the reports baseless and not (reflecting) the official position or policy. The proposal, reportedly part of a larger Israeli plan to facilitate what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described as the voluntary migration of Palestinians from Gaza, has drawn strong condemnation from human rights organizations. They warn such a move would violate international law and amount to ethnic cleansing. Critics argue the plan would effectively depopulate Gaza, enabling Israeli annexation. Israel and the United States have allegedly explored similar proposals with Sudan, Somalia, and Somaliland. South Sudan, still grappling with the aftermath of a civil war and hosting over a million refugees, is considered an unlikely and controversial candidate for such a plan. South Sudanese civil society leader Edmund Yakani urged the government not to allow the countrys territory to be used as a dumping ground for people and not to use people as negotiating chips to improve relations. While Juba denies involvement, concerns remain that geopolitical pressure and economic incentives may shape future decisions behind closed doors. In a bold escalation of its counterterrorism campaign, Nigerias military has killed 592 insurgents and destroyed over 200 technical vehicles in Borno State over the past eight months, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) announced this week. The operations, part of Operation Hadin Kai, have targeted Boko Haram and ISWAP militants entrenched in the countrys volatile northeast. Chief of Air Staff Hasan Abubakar hailed the campaigns speed and precision, noting it has already surpassed 2024s operational outcomes. This year, our air campaign is quicker, more precise, and more surgical, he said during a visit to Borno Governor Babagana Zulum. We are eliminating high-value targets, crippling logistics networks, and dismantling cells that threaten peace in the northeast. The offensive involved 798 combat sorties and over 1,500 flight hours, covering hotspots such as Gonori, Damboa, and Mallam Fatori. New aircraft, including Mi-35 gunships and A-29 Super Tucanos, have enabled round-the-clock surveillance and precision night missions. The military, meanwhile, also claimed another victory in Zamfara State, killing over 100 armed gang members which are often called bandits by locals on 12 August in a joint air and ground operation, thwarting a planned village attack. While analysts caution against overstating gains amid continued insurgent activity, these recent strikes mark a significant uptick in Nigerias efforts to restore security in its most troubled regions. Two men wanted in connection with the violent escape of French inmate Mohamed Amra have been extradited from Morocco to France, French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin said. Alan Gomes, 28, and Albinou Da Sylva, 38, were arrested in Morocco in February, just one day after Amra was captured in Romania following nine months on the run. Both men were the subject of Interpol red notices and are suspected of playing key roles in the deadly ambush that freed Amra in May 2024. They will be brought before a judge shortly and held accountable for their actions, Darmanin said on social media platform X, thanking Moroccan authorities for their swift cooperation. A big thank you to our Moroccan friends, especially my counterpart in the Justice Ministry, for making this operation possible so quickly. Gomes is believed to have been part of the armed commando that attacked a prison transport van at the Incarville toll station in central France, killing two prison officers and seriously injuring three others. The two suspects fled to Morocco after the attack. Both are originally from Evreux, the same town as Amra, who is also known by the nickname La Mouche (The Fly). The May 14 ambush triggered a massive investigation, resulting in charges against at least 41 individuals, 30 of whom remain in pre-trial detention. Authorities deployed extensive resources to track down suspects, including several who had fled abroad. Amra was eventually arrested on February 22 in Bucharest, Romania, ending a months-long international manhunt. Against the backdrop of worsening ties between Paris and Algiers, French judicial authorities have issued an international arrest warrant for a former Algerian embassy official accused of orchestrating a covert kidnapping operation on French soil. The suspect, identified as a former intelligence officer operating under diplomatic cover, is wanted for arrest, abduction and unlawful detention in connection with a terrorist enterprise and criminal terrorist conspiracy, according to official sources cited by AFP. The warrant, issued in late July, targets a man described in an April report by Frances domestic intelligence agency (DGSI) as a non-commissioned officer of Algerias powerful foreign intelligence service (DGDSE), who was stationed at the Algerian embassy in Paris under the guise of a first secretary. At least seven other individuals have been indicted in connection with the operation, including an employee of the Algerian consulate in Creteil, a suburb of Paris. The motives behind the operation remain murky, but the details suggest a disturbing abuse of diplomatic privilege and a flagrant violation of French sovereignty. The target of the operation was Amir Boukhors, better known as Amir DZ, a prominent Algerian dissident and social media influencer with over a million followers on TikTok and Facebook. On the night of April 29, 2024, Boukhors was intercepted near his home in Val-de-Marne by four men posing as police officers. He was handcuffed, told he was being taken to a police station, and driven away. Instead, he was taken to a remote location resembling a scrapyard, placed inside a modified shipping container, and drugged with a white liquid later identified as a sedative. Upon waking, he found himself guarded by two masked women who claimed they had been paid 1,000 each to watch him and pleaded with him not to report the incident. He described the ordeal as 27 hours of detention without violence, but remains convinced the orders came directly from Algiers. I know my enemy very well, he told AFP. I received many threats before this operation. Boukhors, 41, is an investigative journalist and anti-system activist who fled Algeria in 2012 and was granted political asylum in France in October 2023. He is wanted in Algeria under nine arrest warrants, including cham charges of affiliation with the banned Islamist movement Rachad, which the Algerian regime labels a terrorist organization. Between 2015 and 2019, Algerian courts convicted him in absentia for defamation, blackmail, and threats. In 2022, he was sentenced to life imprisonment by a court in Relizane for undermining state security. Boukhors claims he was also sentenced to death, though Algerian security sources deny this. His online content, often targeting President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and his inner circle, regularly garners millions of views and has become a thorn in the side of Algerias ruling elite. French diplomatic sources say Boukhors is part of a broader dossier referred to in Algiers as the subversives, which could complicate future security cooperation between the two countries. The case has sparked outrage in France and raised serious questions about the Algerian regimes willingness to flout international norms to silence dissent abroad. The use of diplomatic cover for intelligence operations and the targeting of a recognized political refugee on French soil could have lasting repercussions for Franco-Algerian relations. As France pursues justice, the incident underscores the authoritarian nature of Algerias regime and its increasingly aggressive tactics against critics, even beyond its borders. 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 Chinese state-controlled company Zhenhua Oil is doubling its offtake of crude from Abu Dhabis state oil and gas firm after taking over as lead developer of the UAEs biggest onshore oilfield, industry sources in China told Reuters on Thursday. Zhenhua Oil will double the volumes of crude it receives from Abu Dhabis ADNOC from 100,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 200,000 bpd. Earlier this year, the Chinese firm took over from French supermajor TotalEnergies as asset leader for Bu Hasa, ADNOCs largest onshore asset, located 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of Abu Dhabi city, according to Reuters sources. Bu Hasa has a production capacity of 650,000 bpd and is also one of ADNOCs oldest fields, which has been producing oil since 1965. In 2018, ADNOC granted Zhenhua Oil a 4% stake in the onshore concessions, with which the Chinese firm became a minority shareholder in ADNOCs onshore production together with BP, TotalEnergies, and Chinas CNPC. Now the increase in offtake from ADNOC will allow Zhenhua Oil to be a more active trader of the Murban crude from the United Arab Emirates. In May this year, Zhenhua Oil successfully completed its first spot physical crude delivery via the Dubai Window platform, operated by S&P Global Platts. The delivered crude involved Zhenhuas equity share of Murban crude from the United Arab Emirates. The delivered grade, ADNOCs flagship Murban crude, was sold directly to a PetroChina refinery. Known for its high API gravity, low sulfur content, and strong refining flexibility, Murban is a preferred choice among refiners across Asia-Pacific and Europe. This marks a major milestone for Zhenhuaits first physical crude delivery via the Platts mechanismsignifying a strategic breakthrough in its international crude trading journey, the company said. By linking upstream production directly with end-user refineries, the company has further strengthened its position in the Middle Easts key oil-producing region. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com While challenges such as limits to efficiency gains and issues with fracking fluid disposal exist, the potential for shale growth remains, especially if oil prices increase. During earnings season for the first quarter of the year, the message of the U.S. energy industry to the world was Peak shale is here. Now, three months later, the message has changed. Now, shale drillers are signaling there is still space to grow, so those expecting a decline after the peak will have to wait a bit longer. We believe we are at a tipping point for U.S. oil production at current commodity prices, said Travis Stice, chief executive of Diamondback Energy back in May in a letter to shareholders. The amount of capital required to get back to 13 million barrels a day or 6 million barrels a day in the Permian might be an untenable lift for the business model that we put in place, Stice elaborated. Now, the new chief executive of Diamondback is signaling this may not be the case. In comments on the companys performance, Kaes Vant Hof said that Diamondback was pushing the limits of efficiency, drilling new wells faster and cheaper, Bloombergs Javier Blas reported in his latest column, arguing rumors of shales peak were greatly exaggerated. Indeed, earlier in the year, the Energy Information Administration reported estimates that total U.S. oil production would decline from 13.5 million barrels daily in the first half of 2025 to 13.3 million barrels daily by the end of next year. Drilling activity was slowing down faster than expected, the EIA said, citing rig count data. Prices were weighing on drillers, prompting revisions of new well drilling plans. Yet just last month, the EIA had to revise its own forecastbecause real-world data about oil production for May showed that shale drillers had kept expanding their production despite weaker international oil prices and despite a lower rig count. Granted, the growth was not bombastic, at 0.2% from the previous month, but on an annual basis, U.S. oil production gained 2.2% in May. That, however, may not last very long. It normally takes several months before shale drillers respond to price weakness by curbing activity, and this year is no exception. Unless, that is, the demand outlook changes. For much of this year, like last year, oil market commentary has focused on predictions of oversupply with a few sharp price swings following geopolitical events, suggesting that oversupply may be in jeopardy. Then there have been signs that there is no oversupply. The oil market is relatively balanced, and the chances of that balance tipping into the shortage direction are not insignificant, as some analysts noted after Trumps latest tariff threat to India for its buying of Russian crude. A slowdown in the energy transition is not helping reinforce the bearish sentiment. In fact, the transition has slowed so much that Wood Mackenzie has warned the world may find itself in urgent need of additional oil barrels. From 2035 onwards, the energy consultancy said recently, global oil demand might require an additional 5% more oil annually than previously estimated, due to the slower-than-planned transition. By 2050, we would need an extra 100 billion barrels of both oil and gas to balance supply with demand. There is much talk about accelerating the transition, but the actual pace of switching oil and gas for wind and solar remains slowwhich means there is a significant chance that the slowdown in U.S. shale is reversible as well. The moment prices tick up and stay up long enough, drillers will get their appetite for drilling back. This is not to say there are no challenges that will be tricky to overcome. For starters, some in the oilfield services industry are warning that they have reached the limit for efficiency gains. Weve tripled oil production in the last 15 years, and we have doubled natural gas production. But theres not a lot of gas left in the tank, the chief executive of Quantum Energy Partners, Wil VanLoh, told Bloomberg back in September. The US shale revolution has run its course. The limit of efficiency gains means there is no more space to lower costs by adding efficiency to drilling, which would make drillers more sensitive to prices. In other bad news for shale oil production growth, the Texas Railroad Commission has warned the industry that the amount of fracking fluid they were using was creating problems with ground pressure. For this reason, the commission earlier this year said it would restrict the number of new wastewater disposal licenses it issues to drillers. Indeed, part of the efficiency gains the shale industry has developed over the past decade or so includes a significant increase in the amount of fracking fluid used. Per Enverus, it has gone up seven times over 15 years. And now it has to be moderated to avoid bigger problems. All this limits the growth potential for shale deposits, for sure. But it does not cancel it altogether. Indeed, peak shale may get delayed yet. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com 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." By RFE/RL More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Brent crude rose 1.63% to $66.70 and WTI gained 1.74% to $63.74 on Thursday, as of 11:50 a.m. ET, with traders positioning ahead of a closely watched meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska. The talks, expected to touch on Arctic oil and gas development as well as the war in Ukraine, come as markets weigh the potential for new energy cooperation or geopolitical friction between two of the worlds top producers. Traders are watching for any indications of an easing of sanctions, which could unlock additional Russian crude and condensate for global markets, pressuring prices in the near term. Conversely, a harder U.S. line on enforcement or new restrictions could tighten supply, particularly into Europe and parts of Asia, adding upward pressure to benchmarks. Senior market analyst at Capital.com, Daniela Sabin Hathorn, said in a note to clients cited by MarketWatch that a deal carrying partial sanctions relief for Russian oil exports would likely see the market respond by pricing in rising global supply, sending crude prices lower. If talks collapse or escalate into new sanctions like export limits, or additional penalties on countries trading with Russia (like India) we could see a sharp rally in oil, Hathorn said. Oil prices fell further this week, closing on August 13 below $66 a barrel for the first time since early June as market sentiment turned negative after reports from the International Energy Agency and the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The boost now reflects optimism among traders that the Trump-Putin meeting could relieve some of the downward pressure on the market. According to ING, though, this may be premature optimism. Clearly, theres upside risk for the market if little progress is made. This could have Trump extending secondary tariffs on other buyers of Russian energy. The expected oil surplus through the latter part of this year and 2026, combined with OPEC spare capacity, means that the market should be able to manage the impact of secondary tariffs on India. But things become more difficult if we see secondary tariffs on other key buyers of Russian crude oil, including China and Turkey, ING noted. By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Major data center operator Equinix (EQIX.O) has announced a series of agreements to secure advanced nuclear electricity, including power purchase agreements and a pre-order for microreactors, to fuel its data centers. The move comes as the growing energy demands of data centers, driven by technologies like generative artificial intelligence (AI), raise concerns about global power supplies. According to a company statement, the agreements are part of Equinix's long-term strategy to ensure a stable and sustainable electricity supply for its global operations. The deals are expected to provide more than one gigawatt of electricity to Equinix's data centers, a significant step as the company plans for future growth. This announcement highlights a broader industry trend where data center developers are exploring preliminary power deals with advanced nuclear providers to meet their voracious energy needs. While small modular reactors and other next-generation nuclear technologies are not yet widely available commercially in the United States, which is a major hub for data centers, these preliminary deals signal a growing interest in the technology as a potential solution to the energy challenge. Among the agreements, Equinix plans to procure 500 megawatts of energy from California-based Oklo, a developer of next-generation nuclear fission powerhouses. The company also entered into a pre-order agreement for 20 transportable microreactors with Radiant Nuclear, which is also based in California. In Europe, Equinix has reached agreements to potentially purchase power from developers ULC-Energy and Stellaria. Raouf Abdel, Equinix's executive vice president of global operations, told Reuters that the agreements are part of the company's long-term planning for electricity, not a short-term solution. Equinix has also entered into advanced fuel cell agreements with Bloom Energy, a Silicon Valley-based company, further diversifying its energy portfolio. The push for advanced nuclear energy for data centers follows a pilot program launched by the U.S. Department of Energy, which selected 11 projects to develop high-tech test nuclear reactors. The program's goal is to have three of the projects operating in under a year, potentially accelerating the commercial availability of these technologies. This strategic shift by Equinix and others in the tech sector reflects a proactive approach to addressing the escalating energy requirements of modern digital infrastructure, with a focus on innovative and sustainable power sources. By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Indias state-owned refiners, which paused Russian crude buying a few weeks ago, have now started to inquire traders about potential purchases of the flagship Russian crude Urals, sources familiar with the development told Reuters on Thursday. The biggest Indian state-owned refiners have pulled out of spot purchases of Russian crude for cargoes loading in October, after the U.S. announced an additional 25% tariff on India over its imports of crude from Russia. U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order enacting an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, explicitly targeting Indias ongoing imports of Russian crude oil. The overall 50% tariff on Indian goods will take effect 21 days after August 6. Ahead of the highly anticipated meeting on Ukraine between President Trump and Vladimir Putin on Friday, Indias state refiners are back inquiring about Urals purchases, as discounts for spot Urals supply have widened to about $2.70 per barrel from $1-$1.50 per barrel at the end of July, according to Reuters sources. We will wait for the outcome of Trump-Putin talks that will give us some indications, one source told Reuters. The worlds third-largest crude oil importer, India, has significantly boosted Russian oil imports since 2022, when Russias oil was banned in the West. Russia currently accounts for about a third of Indias oil purchases, becoming the single largest crude supplier to India. Meanwhile, Indian state-owned refiners have secured on the spot market at least 22 million barrels in non-Russian crude for delivery in September and October, due to the tariff threat. In one of the latest trades, state refiner Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) will buy 10 million barrels of crude from the United States in a five-month tender awarded to trading and mining giant Glencore, sources familiar with the plan told Reuters. India is looking to increase its energy purchases from the U.S. as it is negotiating a trade deal and still hopes to avoid steep tariffs. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Netflix's fictional K-pop group Huntr/x has achieved what no other K-pop girl group real or virtual has done before: reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Their track "Golden," from the animated film KPop Demon Hunters, is now the first Hot 100 chart-topper by a female K-pop act, ending a 24-year gap since Destiny's Child's "Bootylicious" in 2001. The milestone is backed by impressive numbers. In the week of August 17, "Golden" amassed 31.7 million streams, 7,000 sales, and 8.4 million radio airplay impressions. Internationally, the song holds the No. 1 position on Billboard's Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts and has topped rankings in South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Huntr/x comprised of members Rumi, Mira, and Zoey is voiced by Arden Cho, May Hong, and Ji-young Yoo, with vocals from Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami. The song was produced by K-pop veteran Teddy Park, ensuring "Golden" carries the sonic polish and energy fans associate with the genre. KPop Demon Hunters has already become Netflix's second most-watched animated original, surpassing 180 million views. Capitalizing on the success, Netflix will host sing-along screenings in theaters across the U.S., Canada, and UK on August 2324, giving fans a concert-like experience on the big screen. While fans are debating whether "Golden" fits the mold of "traditional" K-pop due to its limited Korean lyrics, many agree its chart-topping success marks a major moment for the genre's global reach. Huntr/x has transformed an animated soundtrack into a genuine music industry milestone, showing that the boundaries between fiction and reality in K-pop are becoming more fluid than ever. What do you think is "Golden" truly K-popping, or is it something new entirely? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation. Vietnam has bought its first cargo of U.S. crude oil for 2025, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing sources. Vietnam, which is estimated to have made its previous purchase of U.S. crude at the end of last year, has now bought 1 million barrels of West Texas Intermediate crude for November delivery, according to Reuters sources. Vietnamese refinery Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical (BSR) purchased the American crude from commodity trading giant Mercuria, the sources added. Earlier this year, Vietnam and the United States signed an energy and minerals deal worth $4.15 billion. The U.S.-Vietnamese agreements included PetroVietnam Gas Corporation signing long-term LNG contracts with ConocoPhillips and Excelerate Energy. Among the other deals, Binh Son Refining and Petrochemical partnered with Kellogg Brown & Root for a study on sustainable aviation fuel, while PetroVietnam Power signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GE Vernova for gas-fired power plant equipment. Masan Group signed an MoU with the US International Development Finance Corporation for financial support in deep mineral processing projects. In early July, the U.S. and Vietnam reached a trade deal, under which the U.S. tariffs on Vietnamese goods would be lowered to 20% from the initially proposed 46% in April. Vietnam will do something that they have never done before, give the United States of America TOTAL ACCESS to their Markets for Trade, U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, announcing the deal. In other words, they will OPEN THEIR MARKET TO THE UNITED STATES, meaning that, we will be able to sell our product into Vietnam at ZERO Tariff. Vietnam has a large trade surplus with the United States, the third-largest surplus among Americas trade partners, which was why the initial tariff proposed by President Trump in April was as high as 46%. To reduce the surplus, Vietnam could buy more American products, including energy goods. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com CHICAGO Texas Democrats moved closer Thursday to ending a nearly two-week walkout that blocked the GOP's redrawing of U.S. House maps before the 2026 election and put them under escalating threats by Republicans back home. The Democrats announced they will return so long as Texas Republicans end a special session and California releases its own redrawn map proposal, both of which were expected to happen Friday. Democrats did not say what day they might return. Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott still intends to push through new maps that would give the GOP five more winnable seats before next year's midterm elections. Texas House Democrats said in a statement that attorneys told them they must return to the state to build a strong public legislative record for an upcoming legal battle against a new map. Now, as Democrats across the nation join our fight to cause these maps to fail their political purpose, were prepared to bring this battle back to Texas under the right conditions and to take this fight to the courts, said state Rep. Gene Wu, the House Democratic leader. At the same time, the Texas Democrats want to wait until California Democrats file their bill to redraw the state's maps, Wu added. We want to make sure the baton is fully in their hands before we let go, he said. Texas Democrats, who are the minority in each chamber, fled Aug. 3 to Illinois, New York and Massachusetts to stop the Legislature from passing any bills. Abbott asked the state's highest court to remove Wu from office, and other Republican officials threatened their arrest. U.S. Sen. John Cornyn said he asked the FBI to assist Texas authorities in locating the lawmakers and Attorney General Ken Paxton asked that 13 members be removed from office. Lawmakers face fees of up to $500 each day they are absent after the House adopted new rules in 2021 after a similar walkout over voting restriction legislation. Texas has 38 congressional districts, 25 of which Republicans hold. In California, Democrats control 43 of the state's 52 House seats. California governor calls for Nov. 4 special election on state's redrawn maps Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday that California will hold a Nov. 4 special election to seek approval of redrawn districts intended to give Democrats five more U.S. House seats in the fight for control of Congress. The move is a direct response to the Republican-led effort in Texas, pushed by President Donald Trump as his party seeks to maintain its slim House majority in the midterm elections. The nation's two most populous states emerged as the center of a partisan turf war in the House that could spiral into other states as well as the courts in what amounts to a proxy war ahead of the 2026 elections. Newsom goes to LA to launch campaign for new districts In Los Angeles, Newsom staged what amounted to a campaign kickoff rally for the as-yet unreleased new maps with the state's Democratic leadership in a downtown auditorium packed with union members, legislators and abortion rights supporters. Newsom and other speakers veered from discussing the technical grist of reshaping districts known as redistricting and instead depicted the looming battle as a conflict with all things Trump, tying it explicitly to the fate of American democracy. We cant stand back and watch this democracy disappear district by district all across the country," Newsom said. We are not bystanders in this world. We can shape the future. An overarching theme was the willingness to stand up to Trump, a cheer-inducing line for Democrats as the party looks to regroup from its 2024 losses. Donald Trump, you have poked the bear and we will punch back, said Newsom, a possible 2028 presidential contender. Showdown between Texas and California could spread Thursday's announcement marks the first time any state beyond Texas officially waded into the mid-decade redistricting fight. Elsewhere, leaders from red Florida to blue New York are threatening to write new maps. In Missouri, a document obtained by The Associated Press shows the state Senate received a $46,000 invoice to activate six redistricting software licenses and provide training for up to 10 staff members. In California, lawmakers must officially declare the special election, which they plan to do next week after voting on the new maps. Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers enough to act without any Republican votes and Newsom said he's not worried about winning the required support from two-thirds of lawmakers to advance the maps. Newsom encouraged other Democratic-led states to get involved. We need to stand up not just California. Other blue states need to stand up, Newsom said. House control could come down to a few seats in 2026 Republicans hold a 219-212 majority in the U.S. House, with four vacancies. New maps are typically drawn once a decade after the census is conducted. Many states, including Texas, give legislators the power to draw maps. California is among states that rely on an independent commission that is supposed to be nonpartisan. The California map would take effect only if a Republican state moves forward, and it would remain through the 2030 elections. After that, Democrats say they would return mapmaking power to the independent commission approved by voters more than a decade ago. Opposition to California plan begins to take shape Some people already have said they would sue to block the effort, and influential voices including former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger may campaign against it. Gavin Newsoms latest stunt has nothing to do with Californians and everything to do with consolidating radical Democrat power, silencing California voters, and propping up his pathetic 2028 presidential pipe dream, National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Christian Martinez said in a statement. Newsoms made it clear: hell shred Californias Constitution and trample over democracy running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority. California Democrats hold 43 of the states 52 House seats, and the state has some of the most competitive House seats. Outside Newsom's news conference Thursday, U.S. Border Patrol agents conducted patrols, drawing condemnation from the governor and others. Were here making Los Angeles a safer place since we dont have politicians that will do that, Gregory Bovino, chief of the patrols El Centro, California, sector, told a reporter with KTTV in Los Angeles. He said he didnt know Newsom was inside nearby. August 14, 2025 | by Heidi Wells, Global Campus Share: Instructors Cal Welbourn, left, who is retired from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Ron Ochoa, right, of the Smithsonian Institution came to Fayetteville to teach at the acarology summer program directed by Ashley Dowling, center. Ashley Dowling was a mite unsure when he was trying to pick a Ph.D. topic. Twenty years later, he's a well-established acarologist leading a summer course at the University of Arkansas to share his expertise with other acarologists from all over the world. Acarology is the study of mites, and while these arachnids are tiny, types such as the spider mite have a huge impact on agriculture around the world, feeding on plants including food crops and ornamentals, often causing serious damage. Other types, such as house dust mites and ticks, play a huge role in medical issues including disease transmission, allergies and asthma. While working on a doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology from the University of Michigan, Dowling attended a long-running acarology summer program at Ohio State University. He went on to teach at that program many times over the years. "In 2017, the guy that ran the program for a long time was thinking about retirement," Dowling said. "No one at Ohio State was going to be able to take it over. The whole program is about mites, and there are not a whole lot of us studying mites. His choice was to find a new home for it or end it after 65 years. I had a hard time thinking about it ending so I offered to move it to the University (of Arkansas) and run it for the foreseeable future." Program's New Home When he agreed to take the acarology summer program to the U of A, Dowling realized pretty quickly neither he nor his department had any experience running such a venture. Dowling is a professor in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology in the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences. He is also a researcher and scientist with the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. "When I agreed to do it, Global Campus was not involved," he said. "I didn't think a lot about it. I just said, The program can't die; I'll take it and make it work.'" He contacted the Global Campus about handling some business aspects of the program. "We weren't really equipped to do it within the department," Dowling said. "My department head said, If Global Campus already does this sort of stuff, why not see if they would be willing to take on the registration and the advertising side of it?'" Services Available The Professional and Workforce Division of the Global Campus works with U of A departments and units that want to offer professional development such as the acarology courses but require assistance such as: Creating a landing page on the training website Coordinating services for the day of the offering Technical support Registration Promotion that could include social media, marketing emails, a news announcement and fliers The professional development can be offered either on campus, like the acarology courses, or online. "Our partnership with Dr. Dowling and the acarology program is just one example of how the Professional and Workforce Development department supports other departments and colleges by adding value in unique ways," said Grant Brewer, director of Professional and Workforce Development. "With our department being part of Global Campus, I am not sure there is another example of a collaboration that exemplifies the mission of all the stakeholders involved to truly help provide a global reach for a program." Dowling handles the academic and operational aspects such as: Hiring instructors Gathering specimens for study Scheduling classroom space Overseeing curriculum Dowling also oversees housing arrangements for the students, many of them agricultural inspectors from other countries, as well as incidental, yet important, details such as parking. Courses this year took place in the Agriculture Building on campus in May and June. Only two of 11 students in the second, longer course of the summer were from the United States. Another two are a U of A graduate student and lab technician. Mite-y Knowledgeable Dowling is what is known as a mite systematist, a scientist who describes, names, classifies and studies the evolutionary relationship of mites. He had always been interested in biology but was not sure which area to pick in graduate school. The professor who became his mentor explained he would be able to study many types of animals upon which mites are parasites. "He proceeded to just tell me crazy stories about mites for 45 minutes," Dowling said. "I left his office and called my wife. I told her I was definitely coming to Michigan and working on mites. I had no idea what they are, I told her, but they really are everywhere." The field is understudied, he said, leaving it wide open for scientists to explore. "There are a handful of people in the U.S. working on it so you could kind of just do what you wanted to do and not step on toes," Dowling said. "It's about discovery and learning new things for me." Learning Environment A typical day in the summer program goes from 8:30 a.m. to 7 at night, a mix of lecture time and hours spent looking at specimens with microscopes. Most of the participants don't have extensive specimen collections available to study in their workplaces, Dowling said. That's the main reason an online learning format would not be ideal, he said; it would require thousands of high-quality photographs. The University of Arkansas' collection has grown since Dowling came to Fayetteville in 2008. Mites can be found in every type of habitat, he said, but most participants can't get the same level of training in their home countries, so government agencies are willing to pay to send them to the U of A. This year, the countries from which government employees came were South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the UK. The people from other countries such the Netherlands and Belgium were from industry. Some participants stay in touch after camp and collaborate on projects later. "We are all spread out over the world but when we get together we realize there are others interested in mites," he said. "We form a bond that way. I heard from some people last year who have been interacting regularly (since camp)." Texas' Senate passes Republican-dominated congressional redistricting map Xinhua) 08:55, August 14, 2025 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) (photos: Salem Fire) By Taxpayers Association of Oregon OregonWatchdog.com Salem Fire Department helped to put out this fire that took out two homes, a few cars and trees. One firefighter was sent to the hospital for injuries. This is a reminder one how dangerous the role of firefighters is. We honor those public servants who keep us safe. Let this be a reminder. By Oregon Campaign Watch, Willamette Week is reporting that State Representative and former 2024 Governor candidate Christine Drazan is showing subtle signs that she may run again against Governor Tina Kotek in 2026. Capitol rumors earlier in the summer were hinting at a run against U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley who was at the time slow to announce for re-election and often unknown in Oregon as a U.S. Senator. 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: Uncontacted indigenous tribe in the brazilian state of Acre. Credit: Gleilson Miranda / Governo do Acre / Wikipedia Some 52 million hectares of natural land have been lost in the Brazilian Amazon region since 1985an area larger than Spain. Nationwide, the loss over the past four decades amounts to 111.7 million hectaresmore than three times the size of Germanya report by the initiative MapBiomas shows. The network consists of universities, non-governmental organizations and technology companies and examines primarily satellite images. 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 Pantanalthe world's largest wetlandthe flood cycles have decreased with each decade, culminating in 2024 as the driest year of the last 40 years. Last year, the water surface there was 73% below the average for the years 1985 to 2024. The reduced moisture also favored devastating forest fires. In the CerradoBrazil's moist savannas in the south-eastabout 40 million hectares of natural vegetation were cleared over the four decades. This corresponds to a reduction of 28%. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged "zero deforestation" for Brazil by 2030. At the upcoming 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in November in the city of Belem in the Amazon region, topics such as action on climate change and deforestation will be discussed. 2025 dpa GmbH. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The red-headed wood pigeon, a critically endangered species endemic to the Ogasawara Islands, Japan. Although it was on the verge of extinction in the 2000s, it can now be seen even near residential areas. Credit: KyotoU / Daichi Tsujimoto. For many endangered species, population decline to the brink of extinction leads to inbreeding, exposing a species to deleterious recessive mutations that severely limit its potential to recover. But the red-headed wood pigeon, endemic to the Ogasawara Islands in Japan, followed a different trajectory. Although this pigeon population fell to below 80 individuals in the 2000s, it began to increase markedly after the removal of an introduced predator, the feral cat. Such a remarkable recovery raised questions regarding inbreeding, and why harmful mutations that could cause inbreeding depression, or a loss of genetic diversity, didn't hinder the species' revival. In an effort to unravel this biological puzzle, a team of researchers at Kyoto University set out to investigate the factors that contributed to this unlikely comeback. The paper is published in the journal Communications Biology. "Many endangered species struggle to recover even with intensive conservation measures," says first author Daichi Tsujimoto. "This pigeon's exceptional rebound led us to investigate the underlying genetic reasons for its resilience, hoping to uncover what makes some endangered species more capable of recovery than others." The team sequenced and compared the whole genomes of both wild and captive red-headed wood pigeon populations, as well as a wild population of the Japanese wood pigeon. Their analysis enabled them to evaluate the level of inbreeding and genetic load in the endangered species and assess how its historical population dynamics influenced these factors. Their results revealed that the frequency of highly deleterious mutations in the red-headed wood pigeon was lower than in the more widespread Japanese wood pigeon. This suggests that, rather than hindering it, the pigeon's success was likely rooted in its long-term persistence in a small population size prior to human impact. Centuries of gradual inbreeding in a historically small and isolated population may have effectively allowed the species to expel deleterious mutations from its genome through a process called genetic purging. This seems to have equipped it with a robust genetic foundation, enabling its population to survive a bottleneck and rebound dramatically just three years after the removal of the predators. "This unique evolutionary history appears to have provided these pigeons with a resilience that is not seen in other endangered populations," says team leader Yuji Isagi. This study challenges the common assumption that inbreeding hinders recovery by expressing harmful genetic mutations. Nonetheless, the population's long-term survival is still in question. Suffering such a severe loss of genetic diversity may have reduced the pigeon's adaptive capacity to future environmental changes, and a population below historic levels remains vulnerable to further erosion of genetic diversity and the accumulation of harmful mutations. Thus, restoring the pigeon to its historic levels is essential. Ultimately, this new insight suggests that conservation efforts should not only aim to increase genetic diversity, but also consider the unique genetic history of each species to develop more informed and effective strategies for their long-term survival. More information: Daichi Tsujimoto et al, Genetic purging in an island-endemic pigeon recovering from the brink of extinction, Communications Biology (2025). DOI: 10.1038/s42003-025-08476-z Journal information: Communications Biology This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Human-caused climate change made a recent Nordic heatwave about 2C hotter, putting a strain on healthcare, ecosystems and indigenous Sami reindeer herders in a region ill-equipped for such events, researchers said on Thursday. Finland, Norway and Sweden experienced unusually hot weather for two weeks in the second half of July as temperatures soared above 30C, with Finland seeing 22 consecutive days of temperatures above 30C. The persistent heat led to people fainting at outdoor events, overcrowded and overheated hospitals, wildfires, algae blooms, a surge in drownings, and sightings of reindeer seeking shade in towns, the two dozen European researchers said in a report published by the World Weather Attribution. "Climate change made the heatwave about 2C hotter and at least 10 times more likely," their rapid analysis showed. The heatwave was intensified by the burning of fossil fuels, which release planet-heating carbon emissions, they said. "Climate change is fundamentally reshaping the world we live in," Clair Barnes, a researcher at the Center for Environmental Policy at Imperial College London said in a statement. "Cold-climate countries like Norway, Sweden and Finland are now experiencing unfamiliar levels of heat, as recently seen in strained health systems and sightings of reindeer seeking shade in urban areas," she said. The report came as temperatures were again expected to soar to almost 30C in parts of the region on Thursday. The Nordic countries are known for their cooler climate and are not normally considered vulnerable to high temperatures. "Our infrastructure was not built to withstand these extreme temperatures and our aging population is increasingly susceptible to dangerous heat," Maja Vahlberg, a climate consultant at the Swedish Red Cross said in the report. Buildings in the region are often well-insulated but poorly ventilated, Vahlberg told reporters at a press briefing. The researchers also noted that warmer temperatures were threatening the livelihood of indigenous Sami reindeer herders in the north. Reindeer normally move to higher ground in summer but those areas now offer less relief, causing the animals to overheat and struggle to find food and water. Additionally, warmer winters cause more snow to fall as rain, with alternating periods of freeze and thaw building layers of ice that prevent reindeer from digging for food. The Arctic region is heating far faster than other parts of the planet, other studies have shown. Barnes said that the likelihood of a prolonged period of heat like the recent heatwave has almost doubled since 2018, when the region last experienced such an intense heatwave. "A rapid transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy is the only way to slow and, hopefully, ultimately stop this warming," she said. 2025 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The animal health, human health, and ecosystem attributes that comprise the One Health aspect of the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle. The first infected dairy farm was likely exposed to H5N1 via wild bird reservoirs. Infected dairies could eventually propagate the virus to other domestic, peridomestic, and commercial animal species, individuals within the dairy workforce, and the human food chain. Solid arrows represent known pathways of viral spread or negative health impact, and dashed arrows represent potential pathways of viral spread. Credit: Journal of Dairy Science (2025). DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-26222 Since its emergence in US dairy cattle, highly pathogenic avian influenza (bird flu, H5N1) has defied control, spreading to other species and disrupting every stage of the dairy sector. A newly published invited review in the Journal of Dairy Science presents the most comprehensive look yet at the virus's impact and calls for a unified response. With current science pointing to complex transmission dynamics and broad consequences, the authors argue that only a One Health approach, taking into account the intersection of animal and human health with that of the environment, can effectively combat H5N1 and prevent future outbreaks. Jason Lombard, DVM, MS, of Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, lead author of the review, explained, "The H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle is unlike anything we have seen beforeit has an exceptional ability to spread between farms and among cows within a farmand is the first time an infectious disease of this magnitude has affected the US dairy sector in nearly 100 years. It has revealed challenges we still haven't solved in our ability to detect, report, and manage new diseases." The review, building on both the current body of literature and best first-hand accounts and unpublished data of the outbreak, describes how the H5N1 virus, previously known for outbreaks in poultry, spilled over from wild birds into dairy herds and a range of other animal species, and maps the broad impacts of the virus to date. "Our team wanted to describe the effects of H5N1 [on] agriculture as well as animal and human health in the US and demonstrate that a One Health perspectiveor one that takes the health of animals, humans, and the environment as a holistic interconnected network into accountwill be essential to navigating this outbreak," Dr. Lombard added. First, the team outlines the latest science on how bird flu is impacting the US food supply, of which poultry, beef, and dairy play a key role. "Before anything else, it's critical to convey that pasteurization remains a very effective tool in inactivating the virus in milk, which means our commercial supply of milk and dairy products remains safe, as are properly cooked beef, poultry, and eggs, based on several US Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service studies," Dr. Lombard emphasized. Still, reduced production and supply disruptions have driven up prices for consumers, and the virus's broader impactsfrom farm operations and management to worker healthcontinue to ripple across the dairy industry. Stopping the spread of H5N1 starts with an understanding of exactly how the virus spilled over into cattle, and the routes it is taking to spread among dairy cattle and between farmsboth of which are still unknown. The evidence suggests that cows' initial exposure may occur through feed or water contaminated by wild birds, although it is possible the virus could also spread through aerosols (tiny airborne particles) or via fomites (contaminated surfaces or objects). After their initial exposure, cows can easily spread the virus to others in their herd. "The H5N1 virus attaches to sialic acid receptors, which are abundant in the udders and respiratory tracts of cows, which means breathing in the virus and coming in contact with infected milk are both options for spread on the farm," outlined Dr. Lombard. "We have information from experimental and field-based studies, but right now, we are missing some key pieces of the puzzle regarding cow-to-cow viral transmission, and more information is needed," added Chloe Stenkamp-Strahm, DVM, Ph.D., of Colorado State University and co-author of the article. Dr. Lombard and the co-authors were clear that understanding transmission will be critical to stopping the spread of H5N1, and that this is uniquely challenging because of the structure and complexity of the dairy industry in which cattle, humans, other animals, and equipment are frequently in close contact and moved from location to location. 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. "Overall, it's important to think of our dairy operations as ecosystems," said co-author Brian McCluskey, DVM, Ph.D., DACVPM, of Colorado State University. "It's not just cows that make up a dairy farm, but a dynamic and interconnected community of living organismsbirds, cats, flies, and peopleas well as their physical environmentswater, vehicles, bedding, housing, and equipment." All of which interact with each other to potentially spread pathogens like H5N1, which is why tracking, understanding, and mitigating the virus is complicated and will require the collaboration of multiple partners: producers, herd veterinarians, government and state partners, and researchers. The human element of this outbreak is the final area the team reviewed, touching on the impact on human health to date and the potential for a larger H5N1 human pandemic in the future. We've seen 70 confirmed H5N1 cases associated with this outbreak, most of whom were people working with cattle or poultry," said co-author Cherissa Abdul-Hamid, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, of the Texas Department of State Health Services in Lubbock, Texas. These cases have generally been mild, mostly involving conjunctivitis (pink eye) or mild flu-like symptoms. The article is clear, however, that H5N1 extends beyond physical illness; the outbreak has exacerbated mental health challenges for dairy workers, who often face pre-existing disparities in health care access, as well as for veterinarians and producers, who contend with increased workloads and financial and emotional strain. The virus has not only affected the dairy industry, but the "cattle strain" has also greatly affected the poultry industry. "According to the American Association of Avian Pathologists, more than 28 million commercial birds on almost 100 premises have been depopulated, and there are many gaps in our knowledge of how it is being transmitted from cattle to poultry," said co-author Kay Russo, DVM, MAHM, DACPV, of RSM Consulting in Fort Collins, Colorado. The virus's potential for causing a larger human health event is much less clear and will require significantly more data than we have available. "So far, we don't truly have enough information to predict the likelihood of H5N1 developing into a virus that can spread [from] human to human and trigger a pandemic," said co-author Carol Cardona, DVM, Ph.D., of the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minnesota, "but it is safe to say the potential increases as we continue to fail to control the virus." How can all of these impacts be addressed in the dairy industry? Controlling the spread of H5N1 will demand a coordinated effort across the dairy sector to strengthen biosecurity practices on farms (including the role of dairy workers), broad viral surveillance and reporting, a review of current control measures, and potentially a vaccination optionall while protecting the livelihoods of dairy producers. Although the article referenced several published One Health recommendations, it emphasized the three from a recent RAND article as particularly impactful: Declare H5N1 a public health emergency and mandate ongoing nationwide testing of representative samples of dairy and beef cattle, free of charge to farmers. Implement increased testing of farm and dairy workers, livestock vaccinations, and indemnity payments. Expand the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Wastewater Surveillance program to test for H5N1 and associated variants from different hosts. Make H5N1 vaccines available to anyone likely to have been exposed to infected animals, and prepare a plan for nationwide distribution. Paul Kononoff, Ph.D., editor-in-chief of the Journal of Dairy Science, underscored the importance of the article: "While there are still many unknowns and more science still to understand, this outbreak is a clear reminder that the health of our dairy herds, farm workers, and the broader dairy community and the general public are deeply interconnected. This invited review helps to equip producers, veterinarians, and policymakers with an evidence-based perspective on why One Health is essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities this outbreak presents." More information: J. Lombard et al, Invited review: The One Health challenges and opportunities of the H5N1 outbreak in dairy cattle in the United States, Journal of Dairy Science (2025). DOI: 10.3168/jds.2024-26222 Journal information: Journal of Dairy Science Provided by Elsevier 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: Ph.D. student Jack Tapocik sets up ice on an engineered surface in the lab of Jonathan Boreyko. Credit: Alex Parrish for Virginia Tech. In Associate Professor Jonathan Boreyko's Nature-Inspired Fluids and Interfaces Lab, Ph.D. student Jack Tapocik watched a disk-shaped chunk of ice resting on an engineered metal surface. As the ice melted, the water formed a puddle beneath. Even after many seconds of melting, the ice disk remained adhered to the engineered surface. At first, Tapocik was tempted to conclude that nothing would happen, but he waited. His patience paid off. After a minute, the ice slingshot across the metal plate he designed, gliding along as if it was propelled supernaturally. The results are important because they have a host of potential applications. The methods team members developed lay the foundation for rapid defrosting and novel methods of energy harvesting. Their work has been published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces. Looking to Death Valley The team was inspired by a naturally occurring phenomenon at Racetrack Playa in Death Valley, California. This dry lake bed in Death Valley National Park is host to a ghostly display of boulders the size of watermelons that make long trails in the cracked earth, left behind by their apparent movement. Because the ground was level and many of the rocks were flat, the reason for their migration remained a mystery until recently. Harvard University Professor Richard Norris found out why this happened in 2014. Rather than a supernatural occurrence, it was a combination of hard ground, rain, ice, and wind. Rainfall covered the ground with water, but the hardness of the ground prevented the water from being absorbed. This water froze when the temperature dropped, and as it later started to melt, the resulting ice rafts drifted in the breeze for the rocks to "sail" across the meltwater. Some of the rocks have been seen traveling together, which gave rise to the "racetrack" mythos. While Norris solved a mystery of the rocks, Boreyko's team was seeking something new: Its members wanted to create a surface that would propel melting ice all by itself, without any wind required. They wanted to harness the science of the racing rocks. Building the track Initially conceived by Boreyko and former graduate student Saurabh Nath back in 2019, the experiments took three years to complete with two more years needed for the model. Boreyko's team cut asymmetric grooves into aluminum plates. This herringbone pattern, which looks like a series of arrowhead-shaped channels, causes the underlying meltwater to flow in one direction. "This directional flow of meltwater carried the ice disk along with it," said Tapocik. "A good analogy is tubing on a river except here, the directional channels cause the flow instead of gravity." Out of curiosity, team members tried coating the aluminum herringbones with a water-repellent spray. They expected to simply see a faster version of the disk getting propelled by the flow, but surprisingly, the disk stuck to the surface instead. This is what led to the discovery of the slingshot effect. "On a waterproof surface, the excess meltwater above the channels gets squeezed out very easily," Boreyko said. "This makes the ice disk stick to the surface's ridges. The meltwater is still flowing along the channels, but the ice can't ride along anymore. The fun trick here is that as the meltwater flows beyond the front edge of the ice disk, it creates a puddle. Having a flat puddle on one side of the ice creates a mismatch in surface tension, which dislodges the ice and causes it to shoot across the surface." By comparison, the movement of the "racing" rocks in Death Valley is quite slow, and they don't shoot like slingshots. It's not likely to become an official competition, but Boreyko's surfaces are winning over the Racetrack Playa for having the fastest ice on Earth. Boreyko has already imagined one of the most high-impact applications: energy harvesting. In that scenario, he brings back the idea of the racing rocks. "If the surface structure were patterned in a circle rather than a straight line, the melting object would continually rotate," he said. "Now imagine putting magnets on top of the ice, rather than boulders. These magnets would also rotate, which could be used for power generation." More information: Jack T. Tapocik et al, Self-Propelled Ice on Herringbones, ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acsami.5c08993 Journal information: ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces 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: Tropical rivers carry large amounts of eroded soils into the sea every year. Credit: Johanna Ciella, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Every human being leaves traces behind, and has done so for thousands of years. In a new study, a team led by lead author Dr. Yanming Ruan from MARUMCenter for Marine Environmental Sciences at the University of Bremen shows that human influence on soil erosion goes back much further than previously thought. Their findings have now been published in Geophysical Research Letters. The basis for the findings of the international team, which includes researchers from Germany, the Netherlands, and China, is a sediment core obtained in 2005 during an expedition with the research vessel SONNE in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Java (Indonesia). Particles that are transported by rain into rivers and then into the sea accumulate on the ocean floor. These samples often contain unique information about the past that is preserved in the sediments for thousands of years. This enabled them to demonstrate how soil erosion has changed and the reasons for this. To do this, they analyzed sediments dating back 5,000 years. For the study, the team focused on molecular markers for soil erosion and fire events and compared them with reconstructions of vegetation and hydroclimate, i.e., humidity, in this region. They divided the past 5,000 years into periods in which soil erosion changed and compared them with the other parameters to find out what the respective driving factors were. It turned out that people in this region began cultivating the land around 3,500 years ago. Without any evidence of changing vegetation or hydroclimate, fire markers increased, indicating slash-and-burn practices to clear the land. Dr. Yanming Ruan putting sample vials on the autosampler. Photo: MARUM Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen; V. Diekamp. Credit: MARUM Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen; V. Diekamp "Such early farming practices likely made soils more susceptible to erosion," explains lead author Yanming Ruan. This is a clear signal of human influence on naturemuch earlier than researchers had previously thought. Dr. Enno Schefu from MARUM adds, "In order to assess the influence of humans on the climate and environment, one must compare the current situation with an uninfluenced period. Our results show that we need to look back much further. In this case, we are talking about the 'deep root of the Anthropocene,' i.e., the period in which humans had a major impact on the natural environment and climate." According to Ruan, the data also show that permanent, more intensive agriculture has led to the most severe soil erosion in around 500 years. This has been exacerbated by intense monsoon rains. In the future, progressive global warming could lead to more frequent and heavier rainfall in Indonesia. According to the study's conclusion, this could further accelerate erosion rates in the future, posing risks to natural resources. More information: Yanming Ruan et al, Late Holocene Human Impact on Tropical Soil Erosion in the Maritime Continent, Geophysical Research Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1029/2025GL114695 Journal information: Geophysical Research Letters This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A cow, left, and two water buffalo linger in the shade at an agricultural property in Bharatpur Municipality, Chitwan District, in Nepal. A recent study led by Nicolas Choquette-Levy, an assistant professor and a faculty associate in the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute at Penn State, developed a survey of about 500 farming households in the the Chitwan Valley. Credit: Nicolas Choquette-Levy For small-scale farmers up against floods, droughts and other dramatic climate events, diversifying income sources can mean financial safetya lifeline as crop-growing conditions destabilize. But in Nepal, where natural hazards rank among the most severe in the world, how farmers perceive climate-related risks often leads them to double down on agriculture instead of exploring other livelihoods, according to a study led by a Penn State researcher. These households may see greater risks of poverty, the research group reported in the journal Population and Environment. The findings underscore the urgency for both government and nongovernment organizations to provide crop growers globally with practical information about the climate, adaptation and alternative sources of income, the research team said. "In a lot of places in the world, small-scale farmers are the backbone of the local food supply," said lead author Nicolas Choquette-Levy, an assistant professor of geosciences and a faculty associate in the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute at Penn State. "Many of these farmers do it out of love. Many believe they don't have other options for making a living, so it's important to provide farmers with the resources to explore other options when climate makes farming less viable." Understanding perspectives from the field is especially key for public policy, said Dirgha Jibi Ghimire, a research professor with the Population Studies Center at the University of Michigan and a study co-author. "Insights into how smallholder farmers perceive climate-related disaster riskand adapt their livelihoodsprovide essential guidance for policymakers and development partners," said Ghimire, who is executive director at the Institute for Social and Environmental ResearchNepal (ISER-N) in Chitwan, Nepal. "This knowledge can inform effective interventions that mitigate disaster impacts in low-income agricultural regions worldwide." Choquette-Levy began the study as a doctoral student at Princeton University, developing a survey of about 500 farming households in Nepal's Chitwan Valley. Growers in the subsistence-agriculture-dependent region are among an estimated 500 million small-scale farmers worldwide, many expected to face climate-related hazards over the coming decades, according to the study. "Whether and how small-scale agricultural communities adapt to increasing climate extremes will influence food security, natural preservation, urban migration and overall development patterns," said Michael Oppenheimer, director of the Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment at Princeton University and a study co-author. "While governments have tried to make farms more resilient through education and financial investments, current efforts are insufficient to promote widespread adaptation to a more hazardous climate." Agriculture accounted for 64% of Nepal's employment and about 21% of its gross domestic product as of 2021, the researchers said. In interviews between May and July 2022, Nepali farmers tied changing climate conditions to greater risks for their agricultural yields. The Chitwan Valley has logged roughly twice the global average temperature increase, and a drop-off in total precipitation, since 1970, according to the study. Major crops in the region include rice, maize and wheat. At the same time, farmers believed climate-related risks in non-farming worksuch as extreme heat confronting day laborers and eco-tourism workerswere even more dire, the researchers found. When farming families detect high climate risks, they may "further retrench into farming-based activities" amid climate extremes, the researchers said in the paper. 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 group cited several likely factors for the pattern, including financial constraints and a fear of lost harvests. "People who had experienced droughts or floods ended up refocusing on farming for their income sources," Choquette-Levy said. "Even as crop yields declined, we saw retrenchment in established farming activities. And there was very low trust in government to help farmers manage these risks." He returned to Nepal in the summer of 2025 to explore prospects for follow-up studies and to meet with policymakers about the research, reviewing the results as authorities budget for public investments. In the paper, Choquette-Levy and his co-authors offered specific policy suggestions, including expanded access to climate information and financial resources for low-income farmers. Specific measures could involve subsidized crop insurance and migration assistance, they wrote. Policymakers also ought to consider promoting "less risky opportunities" for income diversification, along with ways to spread crop-yield risks over multiple harvests, the researchers said. Meanwhile, Choquette-Levy is exploring how to apply findings from developing countries closer to home in Pennsylvania, where family farmers are navigating their own shifting conditions. Nepali farmers "are already ahead of us in approaching climate change in some ways," he said. "Growers in Nepal have no choice," Choquette-Levy explained. "We cultivate some of the same crops in both parts of the worldincluding corn, apples and vegetables. It would be instructive to see how we can combine Nepali climate knowledge with the farming resources and entrepreneurship in Pennsylvania." Other contributors to the paper include Rajendra Ghimire and Dil C.K., research officer and assistant research officer, respectively, at ISER-N. More information: Nicolas Choquette-Levy et al, Retrenchment under climate-driven risks in subsistence farming communities, Population and Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s11111-025-00493-8 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: U.S. Geological Survey staff check monitoring equipment in Suicide Basin in June 2025. By August, the basin had filled with meltwater. Credit: Jeff Conaway/U.S. Geological Survey 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 its rim and escaped through tunnels in the ice, sending surges of water downstream that flooded neighborhoods along the river. On Aug. 1213, 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 appeared to have limited 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 between Suicide Glacier and Mendenhall Glacier didnt exist in 1893. Credit: NOAA/Alaska Climate Adaptation Science Center The growing risk of glacial floods In many mountain ranges, glaciers are melting as global temperatures rise. Europe's Alps and Pyrenees lost 40% of their glacier volume from 2000 to 2023. These and other icy regions have provided freshwater for people living downstream for centuriesalmost 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Scientists investigate flooding from Mendenhall Glaciers Suicide Basin. 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. That dangerous mix can rush downstream at speeds of 2060 mph (30100 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 one-third of the downstream city of Huaraz and killed between 1,800 and 5,000 people. 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 water's path. 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. 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 can't 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 aren't 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. An englacial conduit flood begins in the Himalayas. Credit: Elizabeth Byers 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. 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. Credit: Elizabeth Byers (2016), Alton Byers 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 people's 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 aren't 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. The U.N. declared 2025 the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation and 20252034 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 article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: USGS staff inspecting monitoring equipment in Suicide Basin. Suicide Basin is a side basin of the Mendenhall Glacier above Juneau, Alaska. Credit: USGS USGS streamgages show flood conditions are now underway, with live cameras providing real-time views on the USGS HIVIS website. Glacier-caused flooding has become an annual threat since 2011, with record-breaking floods over the past two years that impacted more than 300 homes and threatened public safety. The USGS is working with the City and Borough of Juneau, Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to monitor conditions and provide real-time data on the glacier lake releases. A glacier-dammed lake forms when a glacier blocks the natural drainage of a valley, trapping water that eventually bursts through or around the ice barrier. "Our real-time monitoring gives emergency managers the advance warning they need to protect Juneau residents," said Jeff Conaway of the USGS Alaska Science Center. "This information allows officials to make critical decisions about evacuations and road closures before flood waters reach dangerous levels." The USGS monitors conditions in the glacier-dammed basin using two cameras and a laser to track water and ice levels. This information is used by the NWS to forecast when and how severely flooding will occur, allowing emergency managers to anticipate dangerous conditions and make informed decisions about evacuations and road closures. USGS scientists measure flooding on the Mendenhall River as water releases from Suicide Basin's glacier-dammed lake on August 13, 2025. Credit: USGS Downstream of the glacier, the USGS streamgage on Mendenhall Lake measures water temperature and water elevation every 15 minutes. A decrease in water temperature combined with rising lake levels helps distinguish water releasing from the glacier-dammed lake from regular rainfall runoff. Working with the USACE, the USGS has installed three streamgages on downstream bridges over the Mendenhall River to measure water height and streamflow. Cameras installed at the bridges provide near real-time views of the river and will update to the USGS HIVIS page during the flood. USGS will measure the river bottom depth at the bridges after the flood to help officials determine if the bridges are safe for reopening. This comprehensive monitoring data helps resource managers and emergency responders protect life and property. The data can also improve flood forecasting models and assess the effectiveness of flood control measures the City and Borough of Juneau has installed along the river. 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: Artistic reconstruction of a female Rekohu shelduck (Tadorna rekohu) showing the darker plumage common in birds isolated on islands. Credit: Sasha Votyakova, Te Papa CC BY 4.0 The discovery of yet another unique animal species from Rekohu Chatham Islands illustrates how the physical qualities of an animal are influenced by its surroundings. New research led by the University of OtagoOtakou Whakaihu Waka describes a new, extinct shelduck whose ancestors arrived on the islands 390,000 years ago. While this may seem like a short period of time, co-lead author Associate Professor Nic Rawlence, Director of the Otago Paleogenetics Laboratory, says it is long enough to impact the species. "In that time, the Rekohu shelduck evolved shorter, more robust wings and longer leg bones, indicating it was going down the pathway toward flightlessness," he says. These changes were due to a range of factors, such as an abundance of food, lack of ground-dwelling predators, and windy conditions, so flying was not the preferred option. Co-lead author Dr. Pascale Lubbe, also of the Otago Paleogenetics Laboratory, says in a case of "use it or lose it, the wings start to reduce." "Flight is energetically expensive, so if you don't have to fly, why bother," she says. "The longer leg bones are more robust to support more muscle and create increased force for take-offnecessary when you have smaller wings." Researchers used ancient DNA and analyzed the shape of the bones to determine the Rekohu shelduck is most closely related to the putangitangi paradise shelduck from Aotearoa New Zealand. The Rekohu shelduck spent more time on the ground than its cousin and became extinct prior to the 19th century due to over-hunting and predation. The study is published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society and adds to the islands' rich history as a home to many species of waterfowl before human settlement. The shelduck's scientific name (Tadorna rekohu) and common name (Rekohu shelduck) were gifted to researchers by the Trust who are tchieki (guardians) of the plants and animals on Rekohu Chatham Islands, with which they are interconnected through shared hokopapa (genealogy). Hokotehi Moriori Trust CEO Levi Lanauze says "this discovery is great for Rekohu as a whole and helps connect imi (tribe) Moriori with miheke (treasure) of the past." More information: Nicolas J Rawlence et al, Ancient DNA and morphometrics reveal a new species of extinct insular shelduck from Rekohu Chatham Islands, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society (2025). DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlaf069 Journal information: Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society 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: University of Illinois agricultural and consumer economics professor Madhu Khanna and her colleagues propose policies that would reward farmers for adopting "climate-smart" practices when growing biofuel crops. Credit: Fred Zwicky A team of agricultural economists, environmental scientists and policy experts envisions a path toward a carbon-neutral agricultural future by expanding the reach of policies designed to promote low-carbon biofuels for transportation and aviation. In a paper in the journal Science, the researchers propose policies that would reward farmers for adopting "climate-smart" practices when growing biofuel crops and remove the hurdles that currently thwart such efforts. Climate-smart practices include techniques that build soil carbon, like cover-cropping, not tilling fields after harvest and adding biochar or finely ground silicate rock to soils; and those that reduce the carbon footprint of crop production, like optimizing the timing of fertilizer application, electrifying farm vehicles and improving crop genetics. Studies show that, if adopted globally, "climate-smart" farming practices could reduce carbon emissions by 4-8 billion tons per year, the researchers wrote. To put that in perspective, in 2024, global carbon dioxide emissions reached an all-time high of about 40 billion tons. "Biofuel markets can be a pathway to decarbonize agriculture as a whole," said Madhu Khanna, a professor of agricultural and consumer economics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and lead author of the new report. Khanna is the director of the Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environment and a researcher in the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation. "Currently, our biofuel policies don't reward farmers for adopting climate-smart practices," Khanna said. "For example, they treat all corn grown for the corn-ethanol market the same, whether or not the farmers adopt those types of practices. By accounting for differences in practices implemented at the farm level and paying a premium for corn grown with climate-smart practices for corn ethanol, biofuel policies can incentivize adoption of these practices." Biofuel markets have already established mechanisms for accounting for the carbon-intensity of different feedstock types and have well-developed channels for transferring payments from energy markets to biofuel producers, the researchers report. This opens the door to using these channels to expand performance-based incentives to increase the adoption of climate-smart practices in agriculture. Researchers have installed a device to measure how different farming practices affect carbon flux on the farm. Credit: Fred Zwicky "For example, the '40B' Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax credit of 2023-2024 was designed to differentiate the credit based on the climate-smart practices adopted while producing the crop," Khanna said. "The lower the carbon intensity, the higher the tax credit paid for sustainable aviation fuels and for the crop used to produce it." At present, however, the channels for crediting farmers for soil-carbon sequestration or other climate-friendly practices on the farm are segregated from the markets that provide credits for low-carbon biofuels, Khanna said. 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. To be compensated for their sustainability efforts in growing the crops, farmers must either enroll in a conservation program or sell carbon credits to one of several companies specializing in agricultural carbon offsets. Space is limited in government conservation programs, however, and farmers must prove that they aren't already engaging in climate-smart practices to obtain credits. This requires a lot of extra effort on the farmer's part. "It also means that early adopters get penalized," Khanna said. Khanna and her colleagues propose an approach for merging the biofuel feedstock market and climate-offset market into a single channel to reward farmers and others in the biofuel supply chain who use practices that lower the carbon-intensity of their operations. This approach could subsequently be broadened to reward farmers for adopting climate-smart practices for crops to supply food and feed markets as well. Like existing policies, any new approach would require verification that farmers are actually implementing the practices they've pledged to follow. "Emerging digital technologies and modeling advances can document farming practices and accurately calculate their carbon intensity. This can simplify and scale this process," said Bruno Basso, a co-author of the study and an expert in modeling and digital agriculture at Michigan State University. Certification programs could allow independent verification that feedstocks were sustainably produced. Researchers propose planting cover crops after harvesting corn as a climate-smart practice that can lower the carbon intensity of corn and the ethanol produced from it. Credit: L. Brian Stauffer Calculating the changes in the amount of carbon sequestered in crop soils precisely each year is a more daunting task, the authors wrote. But "using multiple process-based ecosystem models can reduce the uncertainty in these estimates and avoid the need for labor-intensive soil sampling procedures," Basso added. Another concern is the chance that farmers will implement and then abandon various climate-smart practices, Khanna said. "If they do it one year and not the next, they'll sequester the carbon and then, perhaps, release it back to the atmosphere the following year," she said. "But we can design incentives for longer-term soil-carbon sequestration by having farmers sign longer-term contracts. This would relate the size of the payments to how long the farmer agrees to keep that carbon in the ground." Khanna acknowledges that the carbon benefits from existing biofuels are controversial. Some critics argue that devoting farmland to the production of plant-based fuels takes up land that can be used for food crops and can contribute to the conversion of forests to cropland in other parts of the world, erasing its sustainability gains. But current approaches could be under- or overestimating the carbon benefits of biofuels by disregarding the carbon effects of crop management practices implemented on the farm producing the crop for the biofuel market. "By developing a market for agricultural products that accounts for all the direct and indirect carbon emission effects from the farm to the consumer, we can better address these concerns," she said. "The main premise of our proposal is that we need to have a full and accurate assessment of carbon emissions from the beginning to the end of any product's life cycle. And right now, the way that biofuel policies are designed, they treat crop producers supplying crop for a biofuel as all being the same." More information: Madhu Khanna, Climate-smart biofuel policy as a pathway to decarbonize agriculture, Science (2025). DOI: 10.1126/science.adw6739. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adw6739 Journal information: Science 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: This parakeet narrowly avoided double extinction. Credit: John Gerrard Keulemans, Public Domain One day in August, 1875, a grayish-blue parrot was shot on a small island in the Indian Ocean near Mauritius. It was the last time a Rodrigues parakeet was known to be seen alive. That bird was one of only two ever preserved. Exactly 150 years on, both rest under our care at the University Museum of Zoology in Cambridge, England. Aside from a few fossilized fragments, they represent the only physical evidence the species ever existed. For many extinct animals, museums are now their last remaining habitat. Without these collections, we wouldn't just have lost the creatures themselveswe'd have lost the very knowledge that they existed at all. This can be thought of as double extinction. As I explore in my recent book, "Nature's Memory: Behind the Scenes at the World's Natural History Museums," those of us working in museums take seriously the responsibility of safeguarding the proof of what species we have shared our planet with, and how that diversity has changed over time. Our collections are constantly being used to learn lessons from past losses and this role has only ever increased over time. Extinction and sex bias There are a few enigmatic accounts of green and blue parrots by sailors marooned on Rodrigues in the 1700s, but a specimen wasn't collected until 1871. That was when the British colonial administrator on Mauritius, Edward Newton, received a female bird that had never before been scientifically described. (Scientists must write a formal "description" of a new species for it to be officially recognized). Newton sent the preserved parakeet on to his brother Alfred Newton19th century Britain's most eminent ornithologist and the University of Cambridge's first professor of zoologywho described the new species in print. This makes it something of a rarity: only a quarter of bird species are described using female specimens, meaning that in most cases the male form is effectively considered the standard representation of its species, while the female is considered the "other." Incidentally, although women have always played a major role in natural history, only 8% of birds named after people are named after women. This is one of the reasons why I refer to this species as "Rodrigues parakeet," named after its home island, in preference over its other name, Newton's parakeet (though ironically, in this specific case, the island also happens to be named after a man). In a further display of the human social gender biases underlying much of natural history, having been offered the opportunity to publish an illustration of the specimen alongside his description, Alfred Newton wrote that "as it is unluckily that of a female bird, I refrain from giving one." He was holding out for a male. Due mainly to deforestation due to agriculture on Rodrigues, over the course of a century, the once common parakeet's population had crashed. When further searches for the bird were unsuccessful, Newton eventually provided an illustration of the speciesstill based on that lone female. That same year, when one was shot on August 14, 1875, Edward Newton was finally able to send his brother the male he desired. None was ever seen again, and it is quite possible that it was the true endling: the last living member of its species. 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. Precious little remains Many extinction tales, and indeed the natural history museums that tell them, are intertwined with colonialism. Dodos, from nearby Mauritius, became the ultimate icons of extinction partly because they are relatively common in museums worldwide. Edward Newton again played a role: He was the island's colonial official in 1865almost 200 years after the dodo's extinctionwhen Indian indentured laborers were ordered to extract hundreds of dodo bones from a Mauritian swamp, feeling for them in the mud with their bare feet. This is the origin of almost all dodo bones in museums today. However, countless other lost species, like the Rodrigues parakeet, are represented only by one or two specimens. Without museums preserving these precious remains, we could never comprehend what has been lost. Beyond scientific research, these specimens provide museum visitors with a tangible connection to the permanent reality of extinction. Found, lost, described This isn't just a 19th-century story. In 2000, for instance, a single snake-eyed lizard was collected during fieldwork on a wooded plateau in northwest India. It was preserved in the vast collections of the Bombay Natural History Society, before being described as a new species 20 years later: Ophisops agarwali. But when researchers returned to its habitat, they could not find the lizard again. They have concluded that it is probably extinct, most likely because of traditional forest burning practices. The lizard was caught just in time to be recognizedbut not in time to be saved. Why these losses matter now Like the lizard, the Rodrigues parakeet's story isn't just a quirk of natural historyit's a warning. Across the world, species are being lost far faster than we can name them. It's a sad truth that there are undescribed species in museum storerooms which can no longer be found in their wild habitats. Some become extinct in the window between collection and description. When we preserve those fragments, we keep more than a specimen. We keep a record of what the planet once held. If that single lizard had not been caught in 2000, or if those parakeets had not been stored in 1875, the existence of their species would never have been recognized and nor would its loss. We are both richer and poorer for that knowledge. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Artistic illustration of TOI 700 d, an Earth-size exoplanet in the so-called habitable zone of its parent star. Exoplanet research has been driving heightened expectations with the search for life elsewhere. Credit: Leiden University Astrobiology poses fundamental questions about life in the universe: How did it emerge? Is there life beyond Earth? In a recently published study in PLOS One, researchers from Leiden University investigated how the field was portrayed in the public sphere from 1996 to 2024 by shining light on what speculations and promises about the search for life elsewhere are circulating in the media. Danilo Albergaria and his colleagues examined three kinds of sources of information about science: academic papers, press releases and news articles. They found that the most frequent speculations were about conditions or ingredients for life beyond Earth, followed by speculations on the existence of life. They also found speculations about the outcomes of the search to be uncommon, while speculative content on potential evidence pointing to life detection is rare. Finding extraterrestrial life The study found that expectations that technology will help find life beyond Earth are relatively high, appearing in roughly one-third of news articles, one-fifth of press releases and one-tenth of papers. The promise that astrobiology is making progress in the search for life was also quite common, with about one-fifth of press releases and news articles exhibiting this kind of content. In contrast, they found that promises of life detection are very rare. "Among news articles, we examined those covering studies published in peer-reviewed journals. In general, scientists don't seem comfortable setting expectations on the prospects of life detection when talking about their own research," says Albergaria, the first author of the study. Grabbing media attention News articles presented more speculations and promises than press releases and papers, but press releases had slightly more speculative content when communicating about the significance of research results. "This may reflect pressures for institutional communications to emphasize the impact of a study to grab media attention," explains Albergaria. Papers showed much less speculations and promises than press releases and news stories, yet peer-reviewed articles also exhibited some speculative content, especially about conditions and ingredients for life beyond Earth. The role of researchers in communication The team also mapped how frequently speculations and promises appeared associated with authors of studies, with outside experts or without attribution to researchers. Press releases presented speculations most frequently in quotes of authors of studies, while in news articles speculative content appears more balanced between quoted researchers and without attribution to scientists. This underlines the role researchers play in the communication of the field. The study also found that expectations about the search for life are more associated with exoplanet research than solar system exploration, and much higher than about the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). Speculation is inevitable Albergaria ponders that speculations are not necessarily bad science communication. "Speculative imagination helps to develop concepts and hypotheses that guide the search. There are many unknowns about life in the universe and that's why speculations in the communication of astrobiology seem almost inevitable. So, it's still difficult to clearly distinguish unwarranted speculative content and legitimate contextualization," he explains. "We need more research on that." In total, 630 articles were subject to a quantitative content analysis. Most were published in English, but the analysis also includes news stories published in Portuguese and Spanish. Articles came from six reference newspapers: The New York Times (U.S.), The Guardian (U.K.), Folha and Estadao (Brazil), Publico (Portugal) and El Pais (Spain). More information: Danilo Albergaria et al, Communicating astrobiology and the search for life elsewhere: Speculations and promises of a developing scientific field in newspapers, press releases and papers, PLOS One (2025). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0328766 Journal information: PLoS ONE This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The grand entrance to the Hunts Point Cooperative Market, which supplies New York City with 35% of its meat every year. Iconic steakhouses like Peter Lugers and Smith & Wollensky, as well as schools, hospitals and food pantries get their meat from this distribution center. Credit: Columbia University It was barely past dawn when Bruce Reingold pushed through industrial plastic flaps and slid open the insulated door that led into a massive refrigerated warehouse. Inside, people hustled in every direction, some on foot with clipboards in hand and some driving pallet jacks capable of carrying 2,000 pounds. Brown cartons, containing everything from short ribs to lamb chops to chicken breast to pork shoulder and more, were stacked everywhere, about to fill the trucks parked against the building's loading docks. Those trucks would soon be on their way, bound for different destinations across New York City, including restaurants, hotels, bodegas, schools and food pantries. Welcome to the Hunts Point Cooperative Market, the point of distribution for 35% of the meat that enters the five boroughs. That's more than 1 billion pounds of meat annually. Reingold has managed the market for more than three decades. But recently the city, which owns the land, has begun exploring changes to the market's aging infrastructure to address a growing threat. "Some of the buildings are in a flood zone," Reingold said, referring to the areas designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as being at particularly high risk. While flooding hasn't been an issue for the market in the past, he added, "the city is supposedly investing a lot of money in flood protection." Situated at the tip of the Hunts Point peninsula in the Bronx, where the East River meets the Bronx River, the distribution center is already prone to flooding in some areas, and the risks are likely to grow in the coming decades. The wholesale meat market, along with a produce market and a fish market, make up the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, the largest of its kind in the country. Together, they serve as the penultimate stop for 4.5 billion pounds of food that feed the city and surrounding areas each year. "Hunts Point feeds the entire region," said Ora Kemp, a senior policy advisor at the Mayor's Office of Food Policy. "That's stock in grocery stores, all of our restaurants, all of our food service, our emergency food network." Losing access to that hub could be catastrophic for a city that produces almost none of its own food. "If we don't keep Hunts Point operational, the entire East Coast will suffer," Kemp said. The city has allocated more than $200 million to develop climate resiliency plans for the peninsula. Fifteen million of that came from a federal grant awarded in 2022 that was specifically meant for dry-floodproofing the distribution center's most vulnerable buildings, including some at the meat market. Reingold explained that the plan involves elevating critical equipment in the central refrigeration plant, which keeps the market's seven warehouses cold enough to store both refrigerated and frozen meat and currently sits four feet off the ground. But that grant, issued through FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, was canceled in April 2025 by the Trump administration. In a press release, a FEMA spokesperson called the BRIC program "wasteful and ineffective." 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. On July 16, 2025, New York State sued FEMA, calling the cancellation of the funds "unconstitutional and illegal." Meanwhile, city officials say they have no intention of pausing their efforts to make the food distribution center more resilient. "We are continuing to explore our options, but the goal of that BRIC grant was to study climate resiliency. And we are currently in the design phase of thatessentially to address key precipitation and flooding from sea level rise," said Lisa Weingarten, the vice president at the New York City Economic Development Corporation who manages the city's Hunts Point assets. "We are reacting in real time to new information coming out of the federal administration," Weingarten said. But "we are continuing to move forward with the project with the funds that we have available." At least three of the meat market's buildings sit within the East River's 100-year flood zone, according to the market's 2025 risk report. That means that each year, those buildings face a 1% chance of flooding as or more extreme than a once-in-a-century flood. But some experts argue those zoning maps, originally developed by FEMA in the 1960s, could be underestimating the risks. First Street, a nonprofit foundation that models climate risk, called FEMA's methodology an "outdated characterization of flood risk across the nation" because it is based on riverine and coastal flooding and "does not account for precipitation or climate change." Climate change is already making rainfall events more severe in both coastal and inland areas of New York. That's because rising temperatures cause more water to evaporate from the ground and bodies of water. At the same time, a warming atmosphere can store more water vapor, so more moisture will build up before it rains again, and when a storm system eventually forms, it will dump larger quantities of rainwater back onto Earth's surface. "What about these compound effects that we see quite a lot of these days?" said Andrew Kruczkiewicz, a flood specialist at the Columbia Climate School. "There need to be systems in place for different types of floods, and also for situations where those floods can combine and co-occur." Despite its coastal exposure and low elevation, Hunts Point Food Distribution Center has not yet faced a shock big enough to disrupt the city's food system. While Hurricane Sandy flooded 17% of the city's land in 2012, Hunts Point remained dry and the markets stayed open. "We got very lucky during Hurricane Sandy," Weingarten said. "But I think it served as a wake-up call that a lot has to be done to protect our critical infrastructure and food source for New York City." The storm spared Hunts Point because it struck at low tide, but it revealed the vulnerability of the city's coastal neighborhoods and prompted the city to launch the Hunts Point Resiliency Project to examine the risks. That project published a study in 2020 recommending building hardening, leading to the floodproofing plan that FEMA was, until April, helping fund. Now, those plans face an uncertain future. "What's it going to take," Kruczkiewicz said, "for people, particularly those both at highest risk and decision-makers with the ability and power to decrease risk, to fully understand the significance of the risk?" This story is republished courtesy of Earth Institute, Columbia University http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Mean annual net migration of households before (20112019, top) and after (20202021, bottom) the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Credit: Population and Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s11111-025-00496-5 When climate disasters strike, survivors sometimes have to make difficult decisions about whether to rebuild or move to higher ground. But who is stuck in place, and who can afford to move to safety? And what do they bring with them when they go? Two UVM researchers wanted to explore these questions. Building on their previous study examining American migration patterns from 2010 through 2020, Mahalia Clark and Gillian Galford expanded the scope of the research by digging into how different types of extreme weather, including floods, hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, and other storms, affected where Americansand their household incomesare moving. "There hasn't been a ton of research that looks at how multiple different climate hazards affect human migration in the US," says Clark, who is the study's lead author, "and there's even less on that migration's economic impacts. Clark recently completed her Ph.D. as a Gund Fellow at UVM. The data showed that, in the aftermath of floods and hurricanes, higher-income households left affected communities at higher rates than other residents, taking their resources with them. If this trend continues, it could leave at-risk communities with smaller tax bases to recover and prepare for future flooding. Clark and co-author and Gund Fellow Gillian Galford used anonymous IRS data to examine human migration and household income from 2011-2021. They then overlaid county-level data on weather-related property damage from the publicly available SHELDUS database housed at Arizona State University to examine relationships with severe weather from 1995-2021. The national study, published this summer in the journal Population and Environment, is a novel look at the relationships among human migration, income migration, and extreme weather events. The data showed how people and household income flowed in and out of counties. For example, they found even when a county's total population didn't change much, wealthy households and less-wealthy households tended to cluster, contributing to more concentrated higher-income communities and lower-income communities. The researchers modeled these migrations of people, and their income, in comparison to property damage from severe weather events. "Hurricanes had an impact on both net migration of people and net migration of income," Clark says. Fewer people (and less income) moved into hurricane-hit counties, with population and income shifts rising and falling together. The Northeast, however, saw a slightly different response. Here, hurricanes had an outsized effect on income migration. The effect of hurricanes on income lost through migration was more than twice as strong as the effect on loss of actual people, suggesting thatrelative to the average personhigher-income households were disproportionately likely to leave impacted counties. "In the Northeast, we might be seeing those higher-income households being more responsive to this emerging threat," Clark says. In other words, people with money were more likely to move away from hurricane zones in the Northeast relative to lower-income residents, and while new households replaced some of those who moved, the new residents were likely to have less means. 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. Compared to hurricanes, flood damage had little impact on migration rates of people: the net numbers of households in flood-affected communities remained largely unaffected throughout the study period, and those who left were replaced by similar numbers of new arrivals. Again, income was a different story; following a year when destructive flooding occurred, income migration dropped in affected communities, though the effect was less pronounced than with hurricanes. "This suggests that you have either more higher-income households leaving, or fewer higher-income households arriving in those places," Clark says. "On average, the household income of the people leaving is higher than the average household income of people coming in." Clark says it appears that households that had the means to make an intentional choice were more likely to leave after a destructive flood or hurricaneand if higher-income households continue to depart, taking their economic resources with them, the negative impacts in the communities left behind could be significant, from loss of a tax base to fund basic services, to reduced ability to recover following a climate catastrophe, or prepare for the next disaster. "One thing that I took away as a researcher is that it's really important to study these different types of natural climate hazards individually and compare and contrast their effects," she says. Previous studies had tended to lump various types of severe weather together as a single variable, but by teasing apart the differences here, Clark and Galford noticed that wildfires, tornadoes and other types of storms did not have the same impacts that hurricanes and floods had on human migration. Now, Clark is considering next steps, especially as climate change brings more extreme weather to new regions. "I think there's a lot of places where it's worth looking at this on the local level and thinking about who can afford to move out of the most exposed neighborhoods," Clark says. She says understanding the income-based divergence in migration choices following extreme weather events will also help state and local planning officials get "resources to where they're needed to support the families that need help to get out of harm's way." The needed research is on the horizon at UVM through the recently launched Climate Measurements Center of Excellence. Housed at the Gund Institute, and directed by Galford, who is a professor in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, the center is creating standardized tools for state, local, and regional climate assessments so they can be more easily used. "We're learning where these severe climate events are happening, and the human dynamics within these events," Galford says. "This knowledge is especially needed when the net number of people in and out of a community does not tell the whole story of who's being affected by climate disasters, or who is actually able to move." More information: Mahalia B. Clark et al, Exodus of the affluent? Examining climate hazards, migration, and household income in the U.S., Population and Environment (2025). DOI: 10.1007/s11111-025-00496-5 Port Sudan, Sudan (PANA) - Sudan has welcomed the UN Security Council's rejection of the announcement by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to establish a parallel government in areas it controls in the west A Davenport man has been charged with murdering Trudy Appleby 29 years ago. She was 11 years old when she disappeared Aug. 21, 1996. Jamison Albert "Jamie" Fisher, 50, who Moline police believe to be the last person alive with knowledge of what happened to Trudy, was indicted for the murder of Trudy Appleby. Illinois authorities announced the grand jury indictment during a press conference Thursday in Cambridge. The charges were filed in Henry County. Moline Police Chief Darren Gault said Trudy's remains have not been recovered. Fisher is charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of concealment of a homicidal death. Henry County State's Attorney Catherine Runty said the charges allege Fisher strangled Trudy and then concealed her death. Rock Island County State's Attorney Dora Villarreal said evidence supported kidnapping charges, but those were barred by the statute of limitations. Fisher had been living in a rental home on Ripley Street in Davenport when he was arrested July 23 by Davenport police as they conducted a narcotics investigation. He remains in the Scott County Jail, including on an interstate detainer from Henry County. In 2020, Moline police issued a news release calling Fisher, then of Silvis, and David L. Whipple, of Colona, persons of interest in the case. Whipple died in 2022 at age 61. Trudy was 11 years old when she disappeared Aug. 21, 1996, almost 29 years ago. She was last seen climbing into a silver or gray four-door car in the driveway of her Moline home with an unknown man in his 20s. Since that time Moline police have continued their effort to learn what happened to Trudy. Over the years, authorities have conducted hundreds of interviews, served numerous search warrants, seized a boat and excavated the site of an old home on Campbell's Island in an effort to find Trudy's remains or learn what happened to her. There have been vigils for the girl in which police have begged anyone with information to come forward. In 2018, Moline police rented two billboards in East Moline, one at 19th Street and Fifth Avenue and the other on Illinois 5 near Barstow Road, in an effort to get someone to talk about Trudy's case. In 2023, Moline police served a search warrant in the 600 block of Eighth Street in Colona but found no evidence of Trudy. In 2017, police identified William Ed Smith as a person of interest in the case and said he may have been the last person seen with Trudy. Smith died in December of 2014 at the age of 72. The excavation performed by police at the home on Campbell's Island on Oct. 2, 2017, had belonged to Whipple, who was Smith's son-in-law. The house was razed by Rock Island County in 2004. Fisher is a lifelong family friend of the Smiths. A witness saw Smith on the day of the disappearance in a vehicle near his Campbells Island residence, police said. There was a girl in the passenger seat the witness thought was Trudy. The witness knew Trudy, and the vehicle passed within a couple of feet. It was the last time Trudy was seen. Another witness reported seeing Trudy earlier on Aug. 21, 1996, near her home, police said. She was getting into the passenger side of an older model, gray vehicle. That witness did not know the driver. At the time of Trudy disappearance, Smith had access to a vehicle that fit the description, according to police. Investigators think the vehicle may have been scrapped shortly after Trudy went missing. Whipple, who was a registered sex offender, had long denied any involvement in Trudys disappearance, telling the Quad-City Times in 2012 that on the day of Trudys disappearance, he was living on Campbells Island and he was watching his children. His wife was at work and they had one car, he added. During the many vigils held annually for Trudy, her family has begged anyone with information to come forward so they can have some closure. In 2018, Trudy's uncle, Ray Eddleman, said he feared the not knowing what happened to the 11-year-old girl. Eddleman said his other fear is that, when it comes to an end am I going to be able to handle the news Ive been waiting for so long. When I get that news, Im scared of that pain, too. I basically feel that as her family, if we are willing to admit that Trudy is dead, then the least that this person can do is come forward with information that they have so we can put closure to the case, he said. Weve offered money. Weve done everything we can think of to try and get them to talk." Eddleman has repeated those words over the years since. Scott County charges In the Scott County case, Fisher is charged with Class B felony possession with the intent to distribute meth which carries a prison sentence of 25 years, as well as Class D felony possession with the intent to deliver marijuana, which carries a prison sentence of five years. Fisher is being held in the Scott County Jail on a $50,000 cash-only bond on the drug charges, and without bond on the parole violation. On Thursday, the Scott County Jail added an interstate detainer out of Henry County to his list of chargers. Trpoli, Libya (PANA) - The United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) has condemned, in the strongest terms, the armed attack by unknown assailants that took place in the early hours of 12 August against the office of the High National Elections Commission in Zliten 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 New York, US (PANA) - The UN Security Council has rejected the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) declaration last month of a rival administration in parts of Sudan it controls, warning the move threatens the countrys unity and risks worsening the brutal conflict between the militia and forces of the military government Jafurah Midstream Gas Company secures significant foreign direct investment, together with agreement to lease and leaseback development and usage rights for Aramco's Jafurah midstream assets Aramco to receive upfront proceeds of $11 billion on completion, highlighting the value creation potential of its ongoing capital investment program Transaction to support optimization of Aramco's assets, reflecting positive outlook for gas demand in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia DHAHRAN, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Aramco, one of the world's leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, has signed an $11 billion lease and leaseback deal involving its Jafurah gas processing facilities with a consortium of international investors, led by funds managed by Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a part of BlackRock. Jafurah is the largest non-associated gas development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, estimated to contain 229 trillion standard cubic feet of raw gas and 75 billion Stock Tank Barrels of condensate. It is a key component in Aramco's plans to increase gas production capacity by 60% between 2021 and 2030, to meet rising demand. As part of the transaction a newly-formed subsidiary, Jafurah Midstream Gas Company (JMGC), will lease development and usage rights for the Jafurah Field Gas Plant and the Riyas NGL Fractionation Facility, and lease them back to Aramco for a period of 20 years. JMGC will receive a tariff payable by Aramco in exchange for granting Aramco the exclusive right to receive, process and treat raw gas from Jafurah. Aramco will hold a 51% majority stake in JMGC, with the remaining 49% held by investors led by GIP. The transaction, which will not impose any restrictions on Aramco's production volumes, is expected to close as soon as practicable, subject to customary closing conditions. Amin H. Nasser, Aramco President & CEO, said: "Jafurah is a cornerstone of our ambitious gas expansion program, and the GIP-led consortium's participation as investors in a key component of our unconventional gas operations demonstrates the attractive value proposition of the project. This foreign direct investment into the Kingdom also highlights the appeal of Aramco's long-term strategy to the international investment community. As Jafurah prepares to start phase one production this year, development of subsequent phases is well on track. We look forward to Jafurah playing a major role as a feedstock provider to the petrochemicals sector, and supplying energy required to power new growth sectors, such as AI data centers, in the Kingdom." Bayo Ogunlesi, Chairman and CEO of GIP, said: "We are pleased to deepen our partnership with Aramco with our investment in Saudi Arabia's natural gas infrastructure, a key pillar of global natural gas markets. Today's announcement builds upon BlackRock and GIP's longstanding relationship with Aramco to serve growing market needs for cleaner fuels, energy security and energy affordability." The opportunity to invest in one of the region's most significant natural gas developments garnered significant interest from investors worldwide. Co-investors in the transaction include leading institutional investors from Asia and the Middle East. When completed, the transaction will support the optimization of Aramco's assets and capture additional value from the development of the Jafurah gas field. GIP's mid-market infrastructure equity team, which invests in diversified and contracted mid-market infrastructure assets and businesses around the world, has a robust, long-term track record of successful investments in the Middle East. This investment also builds upon the strong existing relationship between Aramco and BlackRock. In 2022, BlackRock co-led a consortium of investors in a separate minority investment in Aramco Gas Pipelines Company. Contact Information X: @aramco About Aramco As one of the world's leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, our global team is dedicated to creating impact in all that we do, from providing crucial oil supplies to developing new energy technologies. We focus on making our resources more dependable, more sustainable and more useful, helping to promote growth and productivity around the world. https://www.aramco.com About Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), a part of BlackRock, is a leading infrastructure investor that specializes in investing in, owning and operating some of the largest and most complex assets across the energy, transport, digital infrastructure and water and waste management sectors. With energy pragmatism central to our investment thesis, we are well positioned to support the global energy transition. GIP's scaled platform has over $183 billion in assets under management. We believe that our focus on real infrastructure assets, combined with our deep proprietary origination network and comprehensive operational expertise, enables us to be responsible stewards of our clients' capital and to create positive economic impact for communities. For more information, visit www.global-infra.com. Disclaimer The press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements relating to historical or current facts included in the press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements give the Company's current expectations and projections relating to its capital expenditures and investments, major projects, upstream and downstream performance, including relative to peers. These statements may include, without limitation, any statements preceded by, followed by or including words such as "target," "believe," "expect," "aim," "intend," "goal," "may," "anticipate," "estimate," "plan," "project," "can have," "likely," "should," "could," and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the expected results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the following factors: global supply, demand and price fluctuations of oil, gas and petrochemicals; global economic conditions; competition in the industries in which Saudi Aramco operates; climate change concerns, weather conditions and related impacts on the global demand for hydrocarbons and hydrocarbon-based products; risks related to Saudi Aramco's ability to successfully meet its ESG targets, including its failure to fully meet its GHG emissions reduction targets by 2050; conditions affecting the transportation of products; operational risk and hazards common in the oil and gas, refining and petrochemicals industries; the cyclical nature of the oil and gas, refining and petrochemicals industries; political and social instability and unrest and actual or potential armed conflicts in the MENA region and other areas; natural disasters and public health pandemics or epidemics; the management of Saudi Aramco's growth; the management of the Company's subsidiaries, joint operations, joint ventures, associates and entities in which it holds a minority interest; Saudi Aramco's exposure to inflation, interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk; risks related to operating in a regulated industry and changes to oil, gas, environmental or other regulations that impact the industries in which Saudi Aramco operates; legal proceedings, international trade matters, and other disputes or agreements; and other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements in this press release, as set forth in the Company's latest periodic reports filed with the Saudi Exchange. For additional information on the potential risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from the results predicted please see the Company's latest periodic reports filed with the Saudi Exchange. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company's present and future business strategies and the environment in which it will operate in the future. The information contained in the press release, including but not limited to forward-looking statements, applies only as of the date of this press release and is not intended to give any assurances as to future results. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to the press release, including any financial data or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law or regulation. No person should construe the press release as financial, tax or investment advice. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements. 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 now ex-boyfriend and I broke up last month, but Ive been left with an unconventional problem. Whenever we would have sex, he would always play an album by a well-known artist (since Im not sure if I can name names in an advice column, I wont say who). Now any time I hear one of the tracks from the album, I end up wet. VERY wet. Im using panty liners to deal with the problem, but I really would rather this not occur. Do you have any advice on how I can correct it? Embarrassed 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 Jessica Stoya: .What if we withheld an answer until we are given the information about which album and which artist? (To be clear, Im joking.) Rich Juzwiak: Exactly. I received a similar question recently from a guy who got a boner when he heard a specific song, and that was how I opened it: How dare you deprive us of the name of this song that has your boyfriend standing at attention! Admittedly, I am the kind of person who needs to know the irrelevant details when someone is telling me a story, like what movie someone was watching. You have to paint me the picture. I need to know where your headspace was. So, come on, is it Adele? Is it the Grateful Dead? Jessica: Both of us are writers. Were going to want the ability to immerse. In Serbia, they call it a professional deformation. Its like a quirk of having done a certain job for so long. Rich: Thats a good way to put it. Jessica: But also, it could be that the album and/or artist is actually a useful detail. So just a blanket disclaimer: Theres an editor that each of these columns passes through, and if youre not allowed to say a certain thing, they will edit it out. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Rich: So thats our public service announcement: For anybody who is having Pavlovian responses to media, please name the media; you can do it in an advice column. Jessica: It does sound like this album has at least one track that gets played on the radio or whatever businesses are using to replace the radio now. It sounds like its this thing the writer is running into out in the world pretty regularly. Rich: So its like Bruno Mars or Teddy Swims or perhaps Drake or Kendrick Lamar. It could be anybody. But yes, the idea is that this music is in the ether. Jessica: Im thinking of all the consumers of pornography and erotica that Ive had discussions with over the years who talk about needing new content because a favorite has lost its impact. Like if youre drinking four cups of coffee a day, the first cup of coffee no longer immediately perks you up. Rich: So youre suggesting reconditioning? Jessica: Yeah. Like at home, where youre in a controlled environment, just listen to it over and over and check in after I dont actually know what a reasonable amount of time or amount of plays would be. Advertisement Advertisement Rich: Thats the difficult thing is that sexual condition, like operant conditioning, has been studied to a small degree, but usually with men. It is possible, but it requires a lot, and the way that its done is youre exposed to a non-sexual stimulus in rapid succession of the sexual one, so that it rubs off. But this is a very clinical experience. They do it with pictures. I go into it more in my earlier response here. But look, Ive lived in New York for decades now, and I certainly have gotten to choose what I want in my ears for the better part of that time by walking around with headphones. You can minimize the amount of other stuff that comes into your life. Its not completely possible to eradicate everything because you go out to restaurants and music is playing, etc. But I have to wonder: On what scale is this actually a problem? Advertisement Advertisement If you get wet one day out of 60, that seems like a minor thing. It is an inconvenience, sure. But this is what I told the guy with the Pavlovian boners: Theres probably going to come a day when you will have a much harder time getting it erect. Keep this one in your back pocket. Now you have a thing that works, so you dont even have to get a prescription for Viagra then. Advertisement Advertisement Jessica: Also, if the track or tracks are being played a lot right now, that usually means and you have much more pop music expertise and knowledge than I dothat after some time, nobody plays it anymore, basically ever again for a couple of decades. Rich: Right. Or you hear it at weddings. So you can predict that. Its a good thing they dont mention it being Christmas music, because if it were, youd be screwed. Christmas music is inescapable from Thanksgiving to New Years. So that would be tough, but also it would be, I think, extremely difficult to condition yourself to have an erotic response to Christmas music for a variety of reasons. The number one being that its Christmas music, the least erotic space that exists in popular culture. Advertisement Jessica: Also, just because I cant resist: Why was the ex-boyfriend habitually playing that song. If theres a story there, I also want to hear it. Rich: I remember hearing a similar story, and I never believed it. I was a young teenager and blossoming sexually, and Janet Jacksons Janet album came out. And somebody had told me in eighth grade or something that they had sex with their boyfriend to the Janet Jackson album, and now every time he hears Janet Jackson, he gets a boner. But that was back in the day when youd had one CD in your player and you were playing that all the time because of the mechanics of it all. Advertisement Advertisement Jessica: I dont have any specific memories of men I was close with becoming erotically habituated to a particular piece of music, but Ive definitely experienced so many men becoming erotically habituated to a specific piece of clothing that had a particularly good memory associated with it. It then becomes like, Oh, youre wearing that. Rich: Right, like a totem. Jessica: I find it pretty plausible that this could happen. The only other advice I can think of is the mindfulness stuff that can enable you to say, not thinking about whats happening on my panty liner right now, which might shut it down, but also at a bare minimum will just allow them to focus on something else. Advertisement Rich: If youre going to go a mindfulness or re-habituation route, understand that thats going to take time. Theres no quick fix for a situation like this. When youre habituated to something, it takes a long time to unlearn that. Jessica: And lets say the writer tries using mindfulness to put their focus where they want it to be. For some reason, this song is just the hit of the decade, and its not going away. Theyve tried just listening to it a whole bunch while doing non-sexual things, and if they want to go any further with that, scientists get really excited a lot of the time about people who are willing. Advertisement Advertisement So do some research. Look for someone whos perhaps studying sexual conditioning in people with vulvas, and throw your name in the hat and be like, Hey, I have this situation. Because you never know what studies and experiments a researcher is working on. Its worth reaching out, and sometimes theyre like, Hey, actually were running a program right now if we can screen you and see if youre a good candidate. Advertisement Advertisement Rich: I think thats great. Otherwise, I know that its an inconvenience, and I know that using panty liners is not ideal, but there is a gift to be had here. Now you have a cool trick, so it might come in handy one day. Jessica: Pointelle cotton with a thick cotton gusset. Depending on how significant the volume of lubrication is, that might actually be enough if youre tired of using the panty liners. More Advice From Slate Im a single straight woman in my late-30s and have a friends-with-benefits relationship with a man in his early-30s. We started hanging out about a year ago, have communicated and laid out our rules and boundaries pretty well from the get-go (exclusive sexual partnership), and provided our full STD/HIV blood tests even before meeting up. He is well-endowed and the biggest Ive had in terms of size, which isnt the problem at all. Although he comes faster than me all the time, I do enjoy having sex with him. However, he kind of shared in the beginning when we were talking about kinks stories of experimentation in his past. Every time I succumb to the brain-rotting allure of TikTok it seems as if I see the same guy: a wiry middle-aged dude with a grizzled gray beard and knit beanie standing in some vaguely rural setting. Often, hes talking about On Tyranny, a book by the history professor Timothy Snyder, published in 2017. In one video, he holds up the book to the camera and insists that if it were required reading in every middle school across the country, we wouldnt be in the mess were in now. That guy in the beanie is not alone. Publishers Weekly reported last month that On Tyranny is the top seller at a number of independent bookstores, where sales for titles on autocracy are booming. TikTok and other social media platforms abound with posts about On Tyranny, which offers its readers, as its subtitle explains, 20 lessons from the 20th century on how tyrannical governments take hold in democracies and what citizens can do to stop this. On Tyrannys bullet-point-style format and short chapters make it easy to break into nuggets of exhortation; a particular favorite is lesson No. 1, Do not obey in advance, urging individuals and institutions not to appease authoritarian governments before they are even asked to. Some fans on TikTok temporarily turn over their accounts to On Tyranny, reading one chapter aloud per video until theyve narrated the whole thing. On Tyranny, a brilliantly conceived and published title, isnt an unprecedented phenomenon. Bookstores have long placed racks of slender, impulse-buy books by their cash registers, and those titles have long been a mix of the serious and the frivolous. (In 1982, the two biggest point-of-sale bestsellers were Jonathan Schells terrifying description of the consequences of a nuclear war, The Fate of the Earth, and Thin Thighs in 30 Days.) But its not really brick-and-mortar retail merchandising that drives On Tyrannys success. Its the internetprimarily testimonials on TikTok (and links to the TikTok store), but also quotes posted as memes on Facebook and other platformsthat has driven Snyders book to sales of 1.4 million copies, and 250,000 this year alone. Social media is key to the success of most bestsellers these days, but the memeification of On Tyranny is particularly strange, given that Snyder blames our drift toward authoritarianism in part on the internet. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That On Tyranny is short and consists of simplified lessons dispensed in one of the internets favorite formats, the listicle, might irritate some historians. Anyone who has even casually dipped into 20th-century history will probably already be familiar with the European creep into authoritarianism that Snyder illustrates, with examples from the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, and Czechoslovakia. But works like On Tyranny have their place. When it was initially published, one year into the first Trump administration, many citizens unfamiliar with that history wanted an easy framework to assess that regimes chaotic actions for signs of a similar slide into autocracy. Not everyone has the time, ability, or inclination to read longer works of political theory or history, as Snyderwhose university press title The Reconstruction of Nations: Poland, Ukraine, Lithuania, Belarus, 15691999 has definitely not sold 1.4 million copiescan surely attest. On Tyranny, as many TikTokkers have explained, is a quick read and not cluttered up with a mass of dates and details. Call it Hannah Arendt for Dummies, but recognize thats no insultsometimes what readers need most of all is a basic explanation of a complicated concept. Advertisement Furthermore, the basic concepts in On Tyranny are solid. Snyder avoids getting into sectarian squabbles by holding up both fascist and communist totalitarianism as examples of tyranny. The social pressure to conform, the reluctance to tolerate even minor penalties for resistance, the degradation of language and truth, the gradual expansion of the surveillance stateall of these factors can and have signaled increasing authoritarianism. Many citizens understand that this process is more of a gentle slide than a tumultuous revolution, that their counterparts in the past made the dire mistake of regarding such changes complacently. On Tyranny can help them avoid making that same error. Advertisement Advertisement When it comes to Snyders recommended remedies, however, the books hordes of online fansespecially the younger onesmight be perplexed. For example, On Tyranny urges its readers to avoid getting their news from the internet and to subsidize investigative journalism by subscribing to print media. You simply cant access the truth online, Snyder implies, when he writes: Staring at screens is perhaps unavoidable, but the two-dimensional world makes little sense unless we can draw upon a mental armory that we have developed somewhere else. Because when we learn from a screen, we tend to be drawn in by the logic of spectaclehere Snyder is referring to TV as well as the internetwe are too easily manipulated by any backlit content we consume. Advertisement Furthermore, while protest can be organized through social media, Snyder maintains that nothing is real that does not end on the streets. If tyrants feel no consequences for their actions in the three-dimensional world, nothing will change. So readers need to get out of the house and rub shoulders with like-minded peopleand, most importantly, people they dont necessarily agree with on every issue, but who share their desire to defeat creeping authoritarianism. Advertisement Advertisement Snyders not wrong about most of this, though his notion that any information conveyed via a screen must be less reliable than information in print seems like a form of nostalgic revanchism. Its true that the more people conflate their online life with reality, the more they make the mistake of assuming that reality can be curated like a social media feed and that blocking or muting the people they disagree with will effectively erase them. The siloing of information and interactions on the internet does foster all sorts of hysterical, extremist, and paranoid thinking. As Snyder snappily puts it, There is a conspiracy that you can find online: It is the one to keep you online, looking for conspiracies. And privacysomething most of us surrender too readilyis anathema to authoritarianism. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate Bad News for Trumps Nobel Peace Prize Ambitions Read More But does it make much sense to tell 21st-century readers that email is skywriting. Consider using alternative forms of the internet, or simply using it less. Have personal exchanges in person? Its true that the example of effective 20th-century resistance movements Snyder offers up, like the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia, did their resisting in the streets and in samizdat print publications, not on the internet. But then, they didnt have the internet. Many people now feel that their voices reach further when they post on social media than when they shout on the street, and that there isnt a significant difference between the two. After all, they might note, it is their posts that are spreading the word about On Tyranny. Slate receives a commission when you purchase items using the links on this page. Thank you for your support. Advertisement Advertisement Only a few years ago, Snyder might have already received a thrashing in the online press for his blind spots in this respect, back when young critics loved to needle their elders for not understanding the internet. If we dont hear that complaint so much anymore, perhaps its because we now understand the internet all too well. The current regime comes across as a manifestation of the worst of online culturethe bigotry, the unfounded self-confidence of the uninformed, the trolls, and the free-floating rage. No one is immune. Although On Tyranny was clearly published in response to Trumpism and has been updated to reflect recent political developments, Snyder never actually names the man, referring to him only as the candidate or an American president, in what was perhaps meant as high-mindedness but comes across as nothing so much as a book-length subtweet. Advertisement The internet, alas, is here to stay, and something tells me that the New York Times is not selling many $780-a-year print subscriptions to On Tyrannys TikTok admirers. Yes, nothing demonstrates the ferocity of the publics demand for change better than taking it to the streets, but theres no way forward in the battle against authoritarianism that doesnt require coming up with a viable online responseone that not only mounts a defense of democratic institutions and the rule of law but also articulates a winning alternative for the age of digital communications. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement You wont find that in On Tyranny, for all its other virtues. Perhaps thats one reason why, earlier this year, Snyder joined two fellow Yale professorsone of whom is his wifein leaving the U.S. to accept positions at the University of Toronto. Snyder has written that he left mostly to support his wife, who wishes to protest the Trump administrations attacks on civil liberties, and that he considers motives like hers reasonable. Still, how to square this with Lessons 19 and 20 from On Tyranny: Be a patriot and Be as courageous as you can? Is weighing in on the current American mess from the redoubt of Canada really a more immediate engagement with the crisis than making TikTok videos? Dont be a bystander, urges a promotional e-card for On Tyranny, available on Snyders website. But whether youre standing by or standing up depends a lot on where you think the fight is. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. This week, two of our most essential online institutions reckoned with major shifts in the operation and governance of the World Wide Weband they all point to a future where the once immutable principle of the open internet will be dismantled, byte by byte, pixel by pixel. First, the increasingly powerful social network (slash search engine) Reddit announced another plan to shield itself against the artificial intelligence firms that have been scraping its vast forum ecosystem to train their bots. According to a Monday report from the Verges Jay Peters, Reddit is indefinitely blocking the Internet Archive from caching most of its new webpages, starting this week; going forward, the only archivable parts of Reddit will be the daily homepages, which list out the most popular links and discussions on any given hour of any given day. Internet Archive provides a service to the open web, but weve been made aware of instances where AI companies violate platform policies, including ours, and scrape data from the Wayback Machine, a company spokesperson told Peters. Until theyre able to defend their site and comply with platform policies (e.g., respecting user privacy, re: deleting removed content) were limiting some of their access to Reddit data to protect redditors. The news was greeted on Reddit with an obligatory hailstorm of expletives hurled at CEO Steve Huffman. As a 20-year-old platform thats played a significant role in shaping digital culture thanks to its rich history of (in)famous threads and posts (the astronaut who posted from space, the hacked celebrity photos, the rise of meme stocks), Reddit has a treasure chest of internet lore, the best and the worst, thats worth preserving even as older accounts, comments, threads, and whole subreddits are deletedwhich is where the Wayback Machine and its repository of archival links would normally come in. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The second major development from this week concerns the United Kingdoms Online Safety Act, a controversial digital regulation that, as of this year, requires websites that host user-generated content to impose robust age-screening tools and preserve the innocence of under-18 netizens who might come across certain mature content (e.g., sexual material, suicide depictions, terrorist orgs). These particular sites will also need to appoint a senior representative wholl report on their employers compliance efforts to the U.K. governments Ofcom agency, and keep a content-moderation team well-staffed enough to monitor user complaints, quickly take down offending content, and tweak recommendation algorithms. Protecting underage users online is a noble goal, but the Online Safety Acts net effect appears to have been the destruction of creative freedom onlineboth within and outside of the U.K. Reddit, for its part, is undermining its longtime commitment to user anonymity in order to retain its Brits, who now have to upload biometric data (i.e., face scans) or a copy of a government ID document to a buggy outside contractor before gaining access to subreddits that may have explicit content, which has come to affect communities like r/TransgenderUK and r/earwax. Since its impossible for volunteer moderators, much less the broader company, to effectively screen all user-generated inputs at all times, this wide-reaching hurdle is intended to shield Reddit from any possible violations. Advertisement Advertisement The worst effects have come down hardest on smaller communities and not-for-profit websiteslike Wikipedia, which Ofcom intends to deem a Category 1 platform (on par with corporations like Meta and Discord) thanks primarily to extensive usership. Per the Online Safety Act, a large but well-regulated platform is more in need of urgent regulation than a much more toxic site with fewer users (e.g., Truth Social). Thus, the Category 1 listing subjects the online encyclopedia to the Online Safety Acts most rigid demands. The Wikimedia Foundation filed a legal challenge against this classification earlier in the summer, claiming that liability would undermine Wikipedias existence in the U.K. by endangering its anonymous volunteers privacy, while disrupting the user networks and custom feeds that keep its articles up to date and accurate. Advertisement As the economics blogger Richard Murphy also pointed out: Wikipedia will need to rank all its pages to block those that should not be accessible, which will be nearly impossible. Its as if our government wanted to deny access to non-mainstream media sources of information in this country. Advertisement Nevertheless, Wikimedia has hit a setback: Londons High Court of Justice dismissed the lawsuit this week because Ofcom hasnt formally given Wikipedia a Category 1 status yet. However, the judge noted that the site is an essential tool of free expression and cautioned Ofcom to not significantly impede Wikipedias operations via burdensome regulation. Despite that, a government spokesperson told the Guardian that Ofcom still plans to label Wikipedia as an appropriate service on which to impose Category 1 duties, all but ensuring another courtroom rematch. By that point, Wikipedia will need to act in full compliance, which would either entail shedding a large chunk of British usersthus preventing many Brits from even casually browsing the siteor imposing hefty costs for age-checking contractors that the donation-dependent nonprofit cannot easily clear the same way a giant like Meta can. Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, various U.K. platforms are unable to meet that burden and have called it quits: forums on quotidian topics like hamsters, single fatherhood, computer systems, and green living; free online multiplayer video games; personal portfolios for artwork and comics. Meanwhile, larger apps have had to worsen their user experience to ridiculous effectall in the service of providing face scans, passport snapshots, drivers licenses, or even credit card information to third-party contractors and government databases that are hardly as secure as they should be. If Spotify cant scan your face before allowing you to watch a U.K. drill rappers video, your account will be deleted altogether. If you dont show your already highly surveilled pizza-delivery man your ID at the door, no cheesy delight for you. If social media doesnt preemptively restrict the spread of pro-Palestinian posts, the executives whose spaces host such info could be thrown in jail. If YouTube doesnt test a machine learning system that utilizes your viewing data to estimate your age you get the point. Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate The Ugly Truth Behind the Homeland Security Departments Constant Posting Read More Understandably, the Brits are mighty peeved. Over 500,000 of them have signed a government petition demanding that the Online Safety Act be repealed, far surpassing the threshold for triggering a fresh legislative debate. Virtual private network downloads have also surged in the U.K., only spurring regulators to scrutinize their use and dismiss the acts opponents. Memes lamenting how the law has changed the everyday experience of logging on have defined the overall discourse. Advertisement The most disturbing aspect of the Online Safety Act might be the fact that its worst provisions are not limited to the British Isles. In the U.S., states like Texas, Utah, Louisiana, and Arkansas have passed laws requiring age verification for pornographic websites and/or social networks, their constitutionality having been upheld by a June Supreme Court ruling. In May, President Donald Trump signed the bipartisan TAKE IT DOWN Act into law, ostensibly a piece of anti-deepfake legislation that requires social media to develop rapid U.K.-style report-and-erase content systemsbut casts such a wide and vague net for actionable content that its ripe for opportunistic abuse, the potential for which is already chilling the free expression of visual artists and creatives who depend on these platforms. Were not far off from an even more stringent future where American Redditors simultaneously mourn the masses of legally obscured subreddits and the lack of ready Wayback Machine caches that could record this moment for posterity. Advertisement Not that its going to end therethe chilling environment engendered by these trendlines is already having ripple effects. Religious anti-porn crusaders have long pressured credit card companies and payment processors to stop servicing online platforms that may promote adult material, including videos from sex workers. Resultingly, last month the virtual marketplace Steam removed player access to sexually explicit games, while the indie-game platform Itch.io deindexed all not-safe-for-work games from its promotional feeds and search results. When backlash from developer communities revealed that video games from LGBTQ+ creators had been disproportionately caught up in the crackdown, Itch.io claimed that it would start reindexing those gamesas long as theyre free and dont require monetary transactions. In an Aug. 4 blog post, GamingOnLinux editor Liam Dawe highlighted an announcement from the online game retailer Zoom Platform that revealed how its payment processors, PayPal and Stripe, had even expressed interest in delisting iconic titles like Grand Theft Auto and Saints Row. The added irony? GamingOnLinux universally shut down its forums last year because of the U.K.s Online Safety Act. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/-us-military-will-liberate-dc--trump-1122607162.html 'US Military Will Liberate DC' Trump 'US Military Will Liberate DC' Trump Sputnik International US President Donald Trump said that the real crime rates in Washington, DC, are 5-10 times higher than reported in official statistics, and vowed to make the... 14.08.2025, Sputnik International 2025-08-14T03:58+0000 2025-08-14T03:58+0000 2025-08-14T04:38+0000 americas us donald trump washington dc us national guard truth social white house crime violent crime https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/08/0e/1122607004_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_d10a48c8fff718e34f6696a35ffa1e29.jpg "Washington, DC, has one of the Highest Rates of Crime in the World, more than many of the most violent Third World Countries. The Citys Homicide Rate is higher than places notorious for their violence, such as Mexico City, Bogota, Islamabad, and Addis Ababa Almost ten times higher than Fallujah, Iraq. If DC were a State, it would have the highest Homicide Rate of any State in America. The Violent Crime Rate in D.C. has worsened, and the Murder Rate has essentially DOUBLED in just over a decade But these are only the official statistics released by corrupt City Officials. The REAL numbers are many times worse," Trump wrote on Truth Social. On Monday, Trump announced a number of steps by federal authorities aimed at combating crime in Washington. By his executive order, the US president transferred the Washington police under the direct control of the US federal government. In addition, Trump sent the US National Guard to Washington, DC, and threatened to send the armed forces to the capital if necessary. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250522/two-israeli-embassy-staff-shot-and-killed-in-washington-what-to-know-1122107429.html americas washington dc washington dc washington, dc Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us, donald trump, washington, dc, us national guard, truth social, white house, crime, violent crime, washington dc, washington, dc WISE, Va., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dr. Felix Shepard Scholarship for Future Medical Leaders is now officially open for applications, offering undergraduate students across the United States the opportunity to receive support in their pursuit of careers in medicine. Established by Dr. Felix Shepard, a seasoned urologist and medical educator, the scholarship seeks to recognize and uplift aspiring medical professionals who demonstrate both academic excellence and a clear vision for the future of healthcare. Administered through https://drfelixshepardscholarship.com, the scholarship is available to undergraduate students currently enrolled at accredited U.S. colleges or universities. Eligible applicants must be pursuing a degree in pre-med, biology, chemistry, public health, or related fields, and should exhibit a deep commitment to academic growth and healthcare leadership. Dr. Felix Shepard, the driving force behind the scholarship, brings more than 20 years of clinical experience in the field of urology. Known for his years of dedicated service as the only urologist across seven counties in Southwest Virginia and Eastern Kentucky, Dr. Felix Shepard has performed over 3,000 advanced procedures and cared for more than 15,000 patients. In keeping with his mission to develop the next generation of healthcare leaders, Dr. Felix Shepard invites students to respond to the following essay prompt as part of the application process: "In 500 words or fewer, describe how your journey into medicine has been shaped by your personal experiences, and how you hope to impact the future of healthcare through your education and career. Share your vision, your passion, and the difference you want to make." Applicants must submit their applications on official scholarship website no later than April 15, 2026. The winning applicant will be announced on May 15, 2026. The Dr. Felix Shepard Scholarship for Future Medical Leaders is not limited to any specific region or academic institution. It is open to students nationwide who meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate the potential to shape the future of healthcare with thoughtfulness, innovation, and care. By focusing on both academic merit and personal experience, Dr. Felix Shepard is fostering a more compassionate and resilient future for medicineone student at a time. The scholarship represents an investment not only in education but in the medical leadership and values. SOURCE The Dr. Felix Shepard Scholarship https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/failed-anti-drone-systems-big-profits-ukrainian-firm-faces-probe-over-20m-scam-1122608246.html Failed Anti-Drone Systems, Big Profits: Ukrainian Firm Faces Probe Over $20M Scam Failed Anti-Drone Systems, Big Profits: Ukrainian Firm Faces Probe Over $20M Scam Sputnik International A Ukrainian firm is under criminal investigation for allegedly hindering the armed forces and compromising critical infrastructure by selling 820 million Ukrainian hryvnias ($20 million) in ineffective "Lima" anti-drone systems to the Ministry of Defense and other key state-owned enterprises. 2025-08-14T10:03+0000 2025-08-14T10:03+0000 2025-08-14T10:03+0000 world ministry of defense ukraine kiev ukrainian security service (sbu) criminal charges anti-uav https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/104074/49/1040744921_0:246:4928:3018_1920x0_80_0_0_af22f55cfd351ab3ce211768498b5747.jpg The State Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) initiated the criminal probe (Case No. 22024000000000345) after a series of official tests showed the "Lima" hardware-software complex failed to meet its stated performance characteristics. The court documents indicate that officials from LLC "Security Agency KASKAD" made false claims in commercial proposals, including that the system had passed military trials and was proven in combat, to secure contracts. According to the records, the companys alleged scheme began in early 2023 with commercial offers sent to defense industry enterprises. The intellectual property for the "Lima" system was acquired for 1.2 million hryvnias (UAH) and then transferred to LLC "Security Agency KASKAD," which was founded by the ex-wife of the entrepreneur who initially held the rights. Despite internal dissent from some military experts who cited insufficient testing, the system was provisionally approved for use by a Defense Ministry order in November 2023. However, subsequent combat tests in the Odesa region produced a "negative result." Additional trials in Kiev in early 2024 confirmed the system could not defeat modern drone models on its own. A later report recommended that the "Lima" only be used as a supplementary defense alongside other, more effective systems. Even after these failures, the company continued to sell the systems, securing contracts with the Ministry of Defense and other critical infrastructure operators, including major electricity and thermal energy generating company DTEK Zakhidenergo, the court records show. The prosecution alleged that the 820 million UAH was then funneled to a network of controlled businesses, including those owned by active military personnel, to be cashed out and moved into the shadow economy. The documents also note a "radical change" in the lifestyle of those involved. The SBU investigation has led to the seizure of a laptop and an iPhone from a private home, as well as a range of company documents. On July 16, the Kiev Court of Appeals upheld a lower court's ruling to arrest these seized documents, which included a test program for the "Lima" complex, a test log, and financial records for LLC "KASKAD" and affiliated companies. The court rejected the defense's appeal, concluding that the documents are essential evidence for the ongoing investigation. While investigators are successfully securing evidence, no formal charges have yet been announced against any individuals. Corporate records for LLC "Security Agency KASKAD" show a company with a complex and rapidly changing profile. While its official main activity is listed as wholesale trade of machinery and equipment, it was originally registered as a private security firm. The company has undergone several changes in management and ownership since its founding in 2021, with its current owners listed as Oleksandr Vaskovets and Narek Kazaryan. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250608/interpol-turns-blind-eye-to-ukraines-high-ranking-war-criminals-1122213664.html ukraine kiev Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukrainian firm is under criminal investigation, anti-drone systems, hindering the armed forces and compromising critical infrastructure https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/moldovan-police-cordon-off-detention-center-ahead-of-rally-to-back-jailed-gagauzia-leader-1122610968.html Moldovan Police Cordon Off Detention Center Ahead of Rally to Back Jailed Gagauzia Leader Moldovan Police Cordon Off Detention Center Ahead of Rally to Back Jailed Gagauzia Leader Sputnik International CHISINAU (Sputnik) - Police in the Moldovan capital of Chisinau cordoned off the area around a detention center holding Yevgenia Gutsul, the head of the autonomous Gagauzia region, and Svetlana Popan, an activist of the opposition Pobeda (Victory) bloc, ahead of a planned rally in their support on Thursday, a Sputnik correspondent reported. 2025-08-14T12:03+0000 2025-08-14T12:03+0000 2025-08-14T12:03+0000 world maia sandu gagauzia russia moldova chisinau police arrest https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/103288/13/1032881308_0:151:2565:1594_1920x0_80_0_0_4e3dd9be79a9e1c3ce4f546722157efd.jpg Reghina Apostolova, a lawmaker from the Pobeda bloc, said she had been denied access to the detention center, where she planned to meet with the detention center's chief administrator. The police cordon stretched for several blocks. The force's public affairs officials did not comment on the reasons for tightening security measures. "This is a violation of citizens constitutional right to peaceful assembly," Apostolova said. On August 5, a district court in Chisinau sentenced Gutsul to seven years in prison with immediate effect on charges of financing the banned Sor party. Gutsul called the court's decision a "political massacre." She accused Moldovan President Maia Sandu of repressing dissenting voices and promised to appeal the sentence. Popan was sentenced to six years in prison in the same case. The opposition accuses the ruling Action and Solidarity Party (PSA) of political persecution ahead of the September parliamentary elections. The People's Assembly of Gagauzia refused to recognize the sentence handed to Gutsul and issued a statement in her defense. The Moldovan government has been criticized for cracking down on the opposition and arbitrarily arresting its leaders. Gutsul was detained at the Chisinau airport in March. Opposition lawmakers have been routinely detained at Moldovan airports for visiting Russia, while criminal cases continue piling up against government critics. The government has also blocked over 100 Telegram channels and shut down more than a dozen media outlets, including Sputnik Moldova and several major TV channels. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250805/moldovas-attack-on-gagauz-leader-a-political-move-that-undermines-democracy-1122555920.html gagauzia russia moldova Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International moldovan police, detention center, yevgenia gutsul https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/pakistan-aims-to-reconnect-with-eurasia-reviving-ancient-silk-route---ambassador-jamali-1122609734.html 'Pakistan Aims to Reconnect With Eurasia, Reviving Ancient Silk Route' - Ambassador Jamali 'Pakistan Aims to Reconnect With Eurasia, Reviving Ancient Silk Route' - Ambassador Jamali Sputnik International In an exclusive interview with Sputnik, Pakistan's Ambassador to Russia Muhammad Khalid Jamali shares his thoughts on Pakistan-Russia ties, the rise of BRICS and the future of the Eurasian region. 2025-08-14T11:02+0000 2025-08-14T11:02+0000 2025-08-14T12:26+0000 world pakistan russia eurasia brics sergey lavrov vladimir putin the united nations (un) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/08/0e/1122609578_0:0:1247:702_1920x0_80_0_0_77b12d5aab5115776ea97239d9535ab1.jpg Sputnik: Your Excellency, thank you very much for joining Sputnik today and giving us an opportunity to interview you and hear Pakistan's views on the current global affairs. So our first question would be how do you assess the current state of relations between Pakistan and Russia and what key steps should we take to ensure the further strengthening of our bilateral ties?Ambassador Jamali: First of all, thank you very much for taking me on your channel, Sputnik. May I tell you that the relationship between Russia and Pakistan are on positive trajectory. In the words of His Excellency Foreign Minister Lavrov, they are the most positive in the current decade. So you can well imagine that a lot of effort has gone into this. And we are taking more efforts to enhance our cooperation with Russia.Sputnik: How does Pakistan view Russia's role in global politics, particularly in the light of the growing role of BRICS and the global south in general?Ambassador Jamali: Russia is a very important global player. It is one of those countries who are the privileged ones. Russia is the member of the UN Security Council. And it has a role in the global stability and security of the world. Not only the world, but in the region as well. So, we have very good relations with Russia on all the international forums - the UN, the SCO, and all other forums, we have very good relations with Russia. And once again, I emphasize that Russia has a greater role in the world politics today.Sputnik: Pakistan seeks to join BRICS. What benefits does Pakistan expect from this membership? And why is it crucial for Pakistan in today's geopolitical landscape?Ambassador Jamali: Pakistan has always placed a great role in all the international forums, be it UN. Be it UN peacekeeping. Human Rights Council, or any other forums. We have always played a constructive and positive role. For BRICS, we believe that we are an important member of South Asia, and our participation in BRICS would be beneficial not only for our country, but for the BRICS member as well. And I am sure and I hope that BRICS would be devoid of any politics.Sputnik: With Pakistan's strategic location linking Russia, Central Asia and South Asia, how can our two countries collaborate on this potential into reality, for example, through trade corridors and infrastructure projects?Ambassador Jamali: Pakistan has a very geostrategic location. We are at the crossroads of Middle East, West Asia and Southeast Asia. And in order to derive the benefits of connectivity, we are a natural corridor of President Putin's vision of international North-South Transport Corridor. In that regard, Pakistan can play a pivotal role in enhancing the development, socio-economic development of the entire region.Sputnik: In light of the West's economic crisis, tariffs and trade wars, how can Pakistan and Russia solidify their trade, energy, and defense relations to foster a more multiple world order?Ambassador Jamali: Pakistan is a country of 240 million people, and we are an energy-starved country. We are looking for energy from wherever we can get on cheaper and discounted rates to be viable for our people. So, Russia has a great energy potential, and also we import a lot of grain from Russia. Likewise, we export a lot of textile goods, surgical items, leather goods to Russia. In that way, there is a lot of potential in reaching out to Russia and likewise, vice versa.Sputnik: Is Pakistan considering expanding defense cooperation with Russia? And if so, in what specific areas do you see the greatest potential for this collaboration?Ambassador Jamali: I think we are already having a very good defense cooperation with Russia. And there are many courses where the Pakistani military personnel are being trained. And also there has been a lot of interaction between the defense ministries of the two governments. And we are quite satisfied with that cooperation. And we hope to continue with that cooperation.Sputnik: Do you believe Pakistan and Russia share a similar vision for the Eurasian region, and in what way?Ambassador Jamali: I think Pakistan and Russia believe The Economic Curation Union is a very important organization. It has a population of 200 million people and 2.4 trillion of GDP. Pakistan is very much aware of this fact, and we would like to connect with this region. We want to rekindle the old Silk Route between this region and our Indus River civilization.Sputnik: Sputnik is a global news agency, and we do report on Pakistan's affairs a lot, but unfortunately, Sputnik doesn't have an established media presence in Pakistan. So, do you think the Pakistani audience would welcome Sputnik, and why?Ambassador Jamali: I think Pakistani audience is very much aware, and Sputnik has a greater outreach, and I'm sure when you put restrictions on some media houses or channels, that gives an opportunity for the audience. And they become curious to switch on that channel, which has been restricted. So, I see a great potential of Sputnik in Pakistan. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250604/pakistan-is-rapidly-expanding-cooperation-with-russia---special-assistant-to-pakistani-pm-1122192781.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240814/pakistan-russia-trade-to-grow-gradually-after-transport-routes-completed---minister-1119770606.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20241205/pakistan-sould-open-the-gates-for-russias-oil-and-gas-exploration--minister---1121095050.html pakistan russia eurasia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Pakistan's Ambassador to Russia Muhammad Khalid Jamali's exclusive interview with Sputnik Sputnik International Pakistan's Ambassador to Russia Muhammad Khalid Jamali's exclusive interview with Sputnik 2025-08-14T11:02+0000 true PT6M54S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia, pakistan, pakistan's ambassador to russia muhammad khalid jamali, eurasia, silk route https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/putin-trump-summit-to-take-place-at-alaskas-elmendorf-richardson-base-1122607564.html Putin-Trump Summit to Take Place at Alaska's Elmendorf-Richardson Base Putin-Trump Summit to Take Place at Alaska's Elmendorf-Richardson Base Sputnik International The talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump will take place at the Elmendorf-Richardson military base in Alaska, reported Russian President's aide Yuri Ushakov. 2025-08-14T09:23+0000 2025-08-14T09:23+0000 2025-08-15T09:45+0000 world us yuri ushakov donald trump russia alaska vladimir putin putin-trump meeting in alaska https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/08/09/1122580891_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_fe91180778657d934141b7dc29034099.jpg "As you all know, the meeting will take place in Anchorage, Alaska. Specifically, one of the facilities at the joint Elmendorf-Richardson military base will be used," Ushakov told journalists.Putin and Trump will first hold a one-on-one meeting, followed by talks with their delegations, he added."Everything will begin tomorrow, August 15, at around 11:30 AM local time, with a conversation between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. This conversation will be one-on-one, of course, with the participation of translators. Then, delegation talks will take place, continuing over a working breakfast," he told journalists.Before the meeting, Putin and Trump will make a few introductory remarks.The duration of the talks will depend on the course of the discussion, he added."The composition of the US delegation that will take part in the summit is already known," Ushakov said. "However, it will be more appropriate to wait for an official announcement from the American partners."He also mentioned the members of the Russian delegation: "The group of participants is not large. I will name the members of the Russian delegation: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Presidents aide for foreign policy Yuri Ushakov, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, and Presidents special representative for investment and economic cooperation with foreign countries, Kirill Dmitriev."The Kremlin and the White House previously announced that Putin and Trump will meet in Alaska on August 15. As noted by Russian Presidents aide Yuri Ushakov, during his visit to Russia, US Special Representative Steve Witkoff mentioned the possibility of a trilateral meeting involving Putin, Trump, and Volodymyr Zelensky. However, the Russian side left it without comment, suggesting that focus should remain on preparing the bilateral summit. Putin himself has said that a meeting with Zelensky is possible, but conditions for such talks are far from being met. Ahead of the Putin-Trump summit, Zelensky declared that he would not make territorial concessions. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250813/us-urges-ukraine-to-adopt-realistic-combat-strategy-ahead-of-putin-trump-summit-1122604452.html russia alaska Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International putin-trump summit, elmendorf-richardson military base in alaska, us president donald trump https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/russia-ukraine-each-swap-84-prisoners-of-war-on-august-14-1122610439.html Russia, Ukraine Each Swap 84 Prisoners of War on August 14 Russia, Ukraine Each Swap 84 Prisoners of War on August 14 Sputnik International Russia and Ukraine have exchanged 84 prisoners of war on Thursday, the Russian Defense Ministry said. 2025-08-14T11:56+0000 2025-08-14T11:56+0000 2025-08-14T11:56+0000 world russia ukraine pow prisoner release prisoner swap prisoner exchange https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/05/17/1122117513_0:2:1914:1079_1920x0_80_0_0_d78e4b4cf9303bf402fecb12fbdfef78.jpg "On August 14 of this year, 84 Russian servicemen were returned from the territory controlled by the Kiev regime. In exchange, 84 prisoners of war of the Ukrainian armed forces were transferred," the ministry said in a statement. Currently, Russian soldiers are in Belarus, where they are receiving the necessary psychological and medical assistance, the ministry added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250704/aircraft-carrying-russian-soldiers-returned-in-prisoner-exchange-lands-near-moscow-1122395990.html russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia, ukraine, russian defense ministry, prisoners of war https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/russian-forces-liberate-shcherbinovka-iskra-in-dpr---mod-1122610716.html Russian Forces Liberate Shcherbinovka, Iskra in DPR - MoD Russian Forces Liberate Shcherbinovka, Iskra in DPR - MoD Sputnik International Russian forces took control of the settlements of Shcherbinovka and Iskra in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday. 2025-08-14T12:00+0000 2025-08-14T12:00+0000 2025-08-14T12:00+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia dpr ukraine russian defense ministry liberation https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/01/06/1121370195_0:109:3256:1941_1920x0_80_0_0_8ab1a2f905b7cf3adefd2667798f2a3b.jpg "Battlegroup Yug troops, through decisive actions, liberated the village of Shcherbinovka in the Donetsk People's Republic," the ministry said in a statement. The commander of the military group told Sputnik that the majority of the militants defending Shcherbinovka were foreign mercenaries, including Polish nationals and several individuals "speaking like Georgians." All of them were armed with NATO weapons, he added. At the same time, Russia's Battlegroup Vostok took control of the settlement of Iskra, overcoming fierce resistance, and completely expelling Ukrainian militants. The group continued its offensive, advancing in the Donetsk, Dnepropetrovsk and Zaporozhye regions, the ministry said.* terrorist organization banned in Russia russia dpr ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian forces, donetsk people's republic, russian defense ministry https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/supporters-of-karapetyan-gather-outside-yerevan-court-hearing-his-case-1122613061.html Supporters of Karapetyan Gather Outside Yerevan Court Hearing His Case Supporters of Karapetyan Gather Outside Yerevan Court Hearing His Case Sputnik International Supporters of Armenian businessman Samvel Karapetyan gathered on Thursday outside the court in Yerevan, where a motion to extend his arrest will be considered, a Sputnik correspondent reported. 2025-08-14T16:54+0000 2025-08-14T16:54+0000 2025-08-14T16:54+0000 world karen karapetyan nikol pashinyan armenia yerevan supporters https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e9/07/10/1122447105_0:0:2768:1557_1920x0_80_0_0_fa099fce11bfe1def92705b81791071a.jpg Large police forces have been deployed outside the court. Karapetyan, who has been in custody since June 18, said on Wednesday that the decision that will be made by the court on Thursday would show whether there is justice in Armenia, whether judges are ready to do their job with dignity or whether they will not be afraid to discredit themselves for the sake of a small group. In June, Karapetyan, the owner of Tashir Group, expressed support for the Armenian Apostolic Church amid its tensions with the Armenian government. On June 18, a court in Yerevan arrested him for two months on charges of public calls to seize power in Armenia. The businessman pleaded not guilty and called the Armenian authorities insolvent. His position in support of the church dissatisfied Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who posted several posts on social media with insults against the clergy and benefactors of the church. On August 11, the Criminal Court of Appeal of Armenia found the businessman's June detention unlawful. According to Karapetyan's lawyer Liana Gasparyan, the appeals court thus confirmed the fact of the businessman's illegal and unjustified detention, which, she said, is "only one of the illegal actions committed in this criminal process." https://sputnikglobe.com/20250812/samvel-karapetyan-seeks-500m-in-arbitration-against-armenia-over-utility-seizure-1122601306.html armenia yerevan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International supporters of karapetyan, yerevan court hearing, court in yerevan https://sputnikglobe.com/20250814/uk-scales-back-plans-for-troop-deployment-to-ukraine-amid-ceasefire-talks-1122608017.html UK Scales Back Plans for Troop Deployment to Ukraine Amid Ceasefire Talks UK Scales Back Plans for Troop Deployment to Ukraine Amid Ceasefire Talks Sputnik International The United Kingdom is reducing the scope of plans to deploy "reassurance forces" to Ukraine in case a ceasefire is agreed on, a British newspaper reported. 2025-08-14T09:55+0000 2025-08-14T09:55+0000 2025-08-14T09:55+0000 world united kingdom (uk) emmanuel macron keir starmer ukraine nato troop redeployment https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/06/1112419908_0:0:1400:789_1920x0_80_0_0_85c9879e11b3742fdc8e1ab26ff2c568.jpg British military chiefs have given up on deploying 30,000-personnel contingent and are now looking into plans for a more "realistic mission" for Ukraine, which would include ensuring air security over western Ukraine to resume civilian flights and providing support for training Ukrainian troops, the newspaper reported on Wednesday. On July 10, French President Emmanuel Macron said during a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that France and the UK could deploy a joint expeditionary force in Ukraine once a ceasefire is announced. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on April 24 that deployment of NATO military contingent in Ukraine was unacceptable for Russia and posed a critical threat to global security. https://sputnikglobe.com/20250801/uk-mercs-were-involved-in-ukrainian-militarys-botched-landing-on-tendra-spit-1122531825.html united kingdom (uk) ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2025 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International troop deployment to ukraine, ceasefire talks, ceasefire is agreed Already reeling from a fire earlier this month, Stuffys II faces another setback after appellate judges sided with the state earlier this week upholding the nearly seven-figure fines the Longview restaurant racked up during the COVID-19 pandemic. A panel of three appellate judges on Tuesday upheld the $936,000 fine that the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries imposed against Duling Enterprises which does business as Stuffys II for the 52 days the restaurant located at 804 Ocean Beach Hwy. defied emergency orders in early 2021 imposed by then Gov. Jay Inslee. The restaurant says they remain focused on reopening after the Aug. 4 fire, and that they intend to keep fighting the fine. Skai Hogue, granddaughter of restaurant owners Bud and Glenda Duling, said when reached by phone for comment Wednesday morning that the top priority for her is assessing the damage from the Aug. 4 fire and taking care of the restaurants 35 employees. Our goal is to get up and running as soon as possible, Hogue said. She said she heard from the familys lawyer Tuesday about the opinion filed in Division II of the Washington State Court of Appeals, but Hogue did not comment on possible next steps or legal options beyond that the family intends to keep fighting the fine. Joel Ard of Bainbridge Island, who filed the opening brief for the Duling family in October 2024, did not respond to requests by phone and email seeking comment. L&I spokesperson Dina Lorraine said in an email that the business, if they choose to pursue it, has 30 days from the court publishing its opinion to appeal their case to the state Supreme Court. How did the fines reach $936,000? Stuffys made headlines in early 2021 when it was one of two local restaurants that violated the governors emergency orders by refusing to cease indoor dining. A second restaurants fines and appeal, that of Creekside Cafe, was ultimately rendered moot when it went out of business. L&I fined Stuffys $18,000 per day it was open in violation of the emergency order deeming each one a willful serious violation and tallied 52 separate days. Ards appellate brief argued that the $936,000 in fines against Stuffys violated excessive fines clauses under state and federal law. Judge Rebecca Glasgow disagreed in her nine-page opinion filed Tuesday, which Presiding Judge Anne Cruser and Judge Erik Price signed in concurrence. Glasgow counters multiple arguments that Stuffys made that the fine was excessive. Ard had argued that the fine exceeded the $5,000 maximum fine for a gross misdemeanor crime and claimed that the violations did not result in any actual harm. The Washington law that authorized L&I to enforce the emergency order against Stuffys had a range between $5,000 to $70,000 per willful violation, the court opinion notes. The document walks through L&Is calculations. The state agency started with a base penalty and multipliers that factored in the size of the business and the gravity of the offense. L&I reduced the base penalty for Stuffys to $1,800 per violation because Stuffys had fewer than 251 employees. It then multiplied it by 10 because the violations were willful. The $18,000-per-violation penalty is well within the authorized statutory range, Glasgow wrote Tuesday. Moreover, L&I expressly considered Dulings culpability in determining the appropriate fine within this range. The judges also state that Stuffys failed to adequately demonstrate its inability to pay the nearly million-dollar fine. Duling submitted tax returns indicating that it operated at a loss in 2020, Glasgows opinion states. But this information alone is insufficient for us to conclude that Duling was unable to pay the fines. Stuffys got a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program, but the court opinion notes there is nothing in the record about what savings or assets Duling had. The appeals court also notes Stuffys had ample opportunities to give added documentation that it could not pay the fine. Accordingly, this factor does not weigh in favor of gross disproportionality, Glasgow wrote. Still assessing smoke, structure damage Hogue said the fire reported before dawn on Aug. 4 largely struck the back half of the restaurant, indicating that much of the fire damage focused on the kitchen. Portions of the dining area are heavily smoke damaged, however, and crews are still going through everything, determining whats salvageable and what will need to be replaced. Right now theyre just taking inventory, Hogue said. She hesitated to provide so much as even a ballpark estimate as to when the restaurant would reopen because demolition work towards repairing the building cant begin until the inventory is complete. By next week, she anticipates she will have a better idea of how heavily the restaurants structure burned, along with factors such as damage to the roof. Its a big process that honestly we werent prepared for, Hogue said. Prestigious Annual Awards Program Recognizes Breakthrough Innovation in the Global Real Estate Technology Industry DETROIT, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- InvestNext , a Detroit-based real estate investment management platform, announced it has been awarded "Investment Management Platform of the Year" in the 5th annual PropTech Breakthrough Awards program conducted by PropTech Breakthrough, a leading independent market intelligence organization that evaluates and recognizes the world's most innovative real estate technology companies and solutions. PropTech Breakthrough Award 2025 - Investment Management Platform of the Year InvestNext equips General Partners (GPs) and Investor Relations teams with an investment management platform to raise faster, operate more efficiently, and deliver an investor experience that builds lasting trust. "We're honored to be recognized by PropTech Breakthrough as Investment Management Platform of the Year. At InvestNext, everything starts with the people behind capital raising. General Partners are the driving force in shaping deals, building investor trust, and creating real impact and our role is to enable them to do it faster, with more clarity, and less friction. This recognition is a reflection of our team's dedication to building technology that aligns with how GPs actually work. We're proud to work alongside them to enable what's possible." Kevin Heras, Co-Founder and CEO of InvestNext. GPs who use InvestNext experience a significant reduction in investor onboarding time, reduced investor support calls, and the ability to scale their investor count and grow their capital under management. The PropTech sector is rapidly redefining how people buy, sell, manage and experience real estate, transforming one of the world's largest asset classes. The mission of the annual PropTech Breakthrough Awards program is to shine a spotlight on the innovators and trailblazers who are not only keeping pace with this dynamic industry - but actively driving it forward. "InvestNext is redefining how private capital is raised, managed, and delivered while ensuring compliance every step of the way. Today's capital raisers need speed, simplicity, scalability, and investor trust. Legacy systems, disparate tools, and outdated portals - or no portal at all - fail to meet the need for transparency, polish, access and trust," said Bryan Vaughn, Managing Director of PropTech Breakthrough Awards. "InvestNext is solving the problems that matter to capital raisers. Their platform runs it all from inbound funding to post-close operations, while giving GPs tangible value that impacts their ability to source more capital for their deals. Congratulations on being our choice for 'Investment Management Platform of the Year!'" About InvestNext InvestNext is an innovative real estate investment management platform for raising and managing capital more efficiently. With industry-leading technology for fundraising, investor management, compliance tracking, and financial automation, InvestNext empowers real estate investment funds and syndicates to save time on operations and build lasting investor loyalty. Based in Detroit with employees across the US and Canada, InvestNext is trusted by over 1,600 general partners and 70,000 investors. Learn more at investnext.com . About PropTech Breakthrough Part of Tech Breakthrough , a leading market intelligence and recognition platform for global technology innovation and leadership, the PropTech Breakthrough Awards program is devoted to honoring excellence in technologies, services, companies and products that empower remote work and distributed teams around the globe. The PropTech Breakthrough Awards program provides a forum for public recognition around the achievements of technology companies and solutions in categories including messaging & communication, project management, virtual events, team collaboration, virtual offices, collaborative design and more. For more information visit PropTechBreakthrough.com . Tech Breakthrough LLC does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in our recognition programs, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with award designations. Tech Breakthrough LLC recognition consists of the opinions of the Tech Breakthrough LLC organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Tech Breakthrough LLC disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this recognition program, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. SOURCE InvestNext By Mike Scarcella WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court declined on Thursday to put on hold a Mississippi law requiring that users of social media platforms verify their age and that minors have parental consent in a challenge by a trade group whose members include Meta's Facebook, Alphabet's YouTube and Snapchat. The justices denied a request by NetChoice to block the law while the Washington-based tech industry trade association's legal challenge to the law, which it argues violates the U.S. Constitution's protections against government abridgement of free speech, plays out in lower courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Justice Brett Kavanaugh in a statement about the court's order said the Mississippi law was likely unconstitutional, but that NetChoice had not met the high bar to block the measure at this early stage of the case. In a statement, Paul Taske, co-director of the NetChoice Litigation Center, said Kavanaugh's view "makes clear that NetChoice will ultimately succeed" in its challenge. Taske called the Supreme Court's order "an unfortunate procedural delay." The Mississippi attorney general's office in a statement welcomed the Supreme Court's order to leave the state law in place "while the case proceeds in a way that permits thoughtful consideration of these important issues." NetChoice turned to the Supreme Court after the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals let the law take effect even though a judge found it likely runs afoul of the First Amendment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NetChoice sued in federal court in 2024 in a bid to invalidate the law, which was passed unanimously in the state legislature amid concern by lawmakers about the potential negative effects of social media use on the mental health of children. Its emergency request to the justices marked the first time the Supreme Court was asked to consider a social media age-verification law. The state law requires that a social media platform obtain "express consent" from a parent or guardian of a minor before a child can open an account. It also states that regulated social media platforms must make "commercially reasonable" efforts to verify the age of users. Under the law, the state can pursue civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation as well as criminal penalties under Mississippi's deceptive trade practices law. U.S. District Judge Halil Suleyman Ozerden in Gulfport, Mississippi, last year blocked Mississippi from enforcing the restrictions on some NetChoice members. Ozerden issued a second order in June pausing the rules against those members, including Meta and its Instagram and Facebook platforms, Snapchat and YouTube. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The 5th Circuit on July 17 issued a one-sentence ruling that paused the judge's order, without explaining its reasoning. Courts in seven states have preliminarily or permanently blocked similar measures, according to NetChoice. Some technology companies are separately battling lawsuits brought by U.S. states, school districts and individual users alleging that social platforms have fueled mental health problems. The companies have denied wrongdoing. NetChoice said the social media platforms of its members already have adopted extensive policies to moderate content for minors and provide parental controls. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its request to the Supreme Court, the state told the justices that age-verification and parental consent requirements "are common ways for states to protect minors." (Reporting by Mike Scarcella; Editing by Will Dunham) This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The proposed digital twin facility management system integrates technologies like building information management, internet of things, and geographic information systems, to improve management and logistics of modular units, and enhance decision-making across repeated building lifecycles. Credit: Yonghan Ahn from Hanyang University ERICA Relocatable modular buildings (RMBs) represent an innovative and growing solution for flexible and sustainable construction. These buildings can be quickly assembled from prefabricated "modules" and easily transported, minimizing costs and environmental impact while providing safer and cleaner construction environments. However, the management of assets and modular units for reuse and relocation across multiple lifecycles remains a major challenge in RMB projects. To address this, a research team led by Associate Professor Yonghan Ahn from the School of Architecture & Architectural Engineering at Hanyang University ERICA in South Korea, developed a new digital twin (DT)-based framework for facility management of RMB projects. "Digital twin technology is a groundbreaking tool that offers a digital replica of physical assets, integrating real-time data, predictive analysis, and decision-making abilities," explains Prof. Ahn. "Although digital twins are gaining popularity in other fields, their use in modular construction remains limited. We introduce a novel digital twin-enabled facility management system (DT-FMS) tailored specifically for RMBs." The team also included contributions from Dr. Dennis Nguyen from Hanyang University. Their study was published in the journal Automation in Construction. The new DT-FMS integrates building information modeling (BIM), internet of things (IoT), and geographic information systems (GIS) to create a detailed virtual model of RMBs. This model supports real-time monitoring, performance analysis, and logistics simulations across the building's lifecycle. BIM offers robust 3D modeling and comprehensive building information. IoT provides real-time sensor data. GIS contributes critical geographic data, supporting effective logistics of modular units and location-based decision making. This framework is structured across three interconnected layers: physical, digital, and service. The physical layer forms the foundation for real-time tracking and communication among different physical components such as resources, modular units, and people, including stakeholders, engineers, and workers. The digital layer includes modeling tools, data integration, and analytics. Finally, the service layer allows users to monitor, control, and interact with the DT framework, supporting effective decision making throughout the building lifecycle. To demonstrate the practical application of the framework, the researchers conducted a case study on a relocatable modular school system in South Korea. DT-FMS enhanced the decision making for module distribution and reuse, resulting in improved management efficiency. "Our research highlights the important role of digital twins in promoting a circular economy by enabling the reuse, reconfiguration, and optimal relocation of modular units, thereby minimizing waste and maximizing value throughout repeating project cycles," remarks Dr. Nguyen. More information: Truong Dang Hoang Nhat Nguyen et al, Digital twin framework to enhance facility management for relocatable modular buildings, Automation in Construction (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.autcon.2025.106249 Provided by Hanyang University ERICA This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A new software tool developed by Cornell researchers can model a small city's building energy use within minutes on a standard laptop, then run simulations to help policymakers prioritize the most cost-effective approaches to decarbonization. Using the City of Ithaca, New York, as a case study, the urban building energy model quickly mapped more than 5,000 residential and commercial buildings and their baseline energy use. Simulated investments in weatherization, electric heat pumps and rooftop solar panels, while also factoring in financial incentives, generated insights that are informing city efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The tool's automated workflow, accessibility and accuracywithout advanced computing powercould be particularly valuable for smaller cities that lack resources and expertise dedicated to decarbonization, the researchers said. But they said the new modelnow also supporting the county that surrounds Ithacacould be further scaled up to serve big cities or an entire state. "We're really excited that this can scale and is efficient enough even for a state to map out energy consumption and the potential for retrofitswhat they mean from a carbon emissions perspective, a financial perspective or just an efficiency perspective," said Timur Dogan, associate professor in the Departments of Architecture and Design Tech in the College of Architecture, Art and Planning. "From a small city to a county or state, this can really shape policies and how you prioritize policies." Dogan is the first author of "A Bottom-up Urban Building Energy Model for Evaluating Thermal Load Electrification Measures," published in the Journal of Building Performance Simulation. The building and construction industry accounts for more than 37% of carbon dioxide emissions globally, according to the United Nations Environment Program. "Digital twins," including urban building energy models, are seen as key to enabling data-driven decisions about decarbonization, but their complexity and cost have limited their adoption and scalability. Oak Ridge National Lab's Model America initiative, for example, used supercomputers to process vast quantities of data to build models or test scenariosan impractical approach for most municipalities. Dogan said his lab's model achieves similar resultssufficient to guide planningin a fraction of the time, while enabling iterative simulations to explore all viable scenarios. That's achieved through a series of small innovations, Dogan said, including a fast, physics-based simulation engine using lower-order energy models, and the ways buildings are described and their unknown properties inferred, aided by machine learning. The models incorporate publicly available data from geospatial maps, tax records, building permits and census data, and energy-use data from the local utilityfor Ithaca, New York State Electric & Gas Corp., through an agreement with Avangrid. The Ithaca case study revealed several "compelling and sometimes counterintuitive insights" relevant to similarly sized cities, the researchers said. For example, it showed that replacing gas furnaces with heat pumps would increase many buildings' operational energy costs, suggesting that step should be paired with weatherization and rooftop solar panels to make the transition financially attractive. And while large commercial buildings had seemed the logical first place to focus, accounting for financial incentives shifted the priority: Multifamily residential buildings would be the most affordable to retrofit, the model showed. "The models allow you to flag properties that are interesting to look into more closely," Dogan said. "You go from 5,000 buildings and we don't know what to do, to 'These 100 are the clear ones to go after first.'" Rebecca Evans, Ithaca's director of sustainability, said the city welcomes the ongoing partnership with Dogan's lab. "What Timur's team is building is innovative, scalable and already being used as part of larger city and county projects," Evans said. "Urban building energy models have the potential to significantly reduce the capital necessary to identify buildings primed for electrification, bundle those buildings into portfolios and create attractive areas for investment." The nation's biggest cities may have staffs and budgets focused on decarbonization challenges and analyses, Dogan said, but more accessible and scalable models, like the one his team developed, promise to help many smaller municipalities that otherwise would be flying blind. "Taken together, those cities will have a massive impact," he said. "Our hope is that we can give them something they can use to make good decisions." More information: Timur Dogan et al, A bottom-up urban building energy model for evaluating thermal load electrification measures, Journal of Building Performance Simulation (2025). DOI: 10.1080/19401493.2025.2536261 This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain A US military spaceplane, the X-37B orbital test vehicle, is due to embark on its eighth flight into space on August 21, 2025. Much of what the X-37B does in space is secret. But it serves partly as a platform for cutting-edge experiments. One of these experiments is a potential alternative to GPS that makes use of quantum science as a tool for navigation: a quantum inertial sensor. Satellite-based systems like GPS are ubiquitous in our daily lives, from smartphone maps to aviation and logistics. But GPS isn't available everywhere. This technology could revolutionize how spacecraft, airplanes, ships and submarines navigate in environments where GPS is unavailable or compromised. In space, especially beyond Earth's orbit, GPS signals become unreliable or simply vanish. The same applies underwater, where submarines cannot access GPS at all. And even on Earth, GPS signals can be jammed (blocked), spoofed (making a GPS receiver think it is in a different location) or disabledfor instance, during a conflict. This makes navigation without GPS a critical challenge. In such scenarios, having navigation systems that function independently of any external signals becomes essential. Traditional inertial navigation systems (INS), which use accelerometers and gyroscopes to measure a vehicle's acceleration and rotation, do provide independent navigation, as they can estimate position by tracking how the vehicle moves over time. Think of sitting in a car with your eyes closed: you can still feel turns, stops and accelerations, which your brain integrates to guess where you are over time. Eventually though, without visual cues, small errors will accumulate and you will entirely lose your positioning. The same goes with classical inertial navigation systems: as small measurement errors accumulate, they gradually drift off course, and need corrections from GPS or other external signals. Where quantum helps If you think of quantum physics, what may come to your mind is a strange world where particles behave like waves and Schrodinger's cat is both dead and alive. These thought experiments genuinely describe how tiny particles like atoms behave. At very low temperatures, atoms obey the rules of quantum mechanics: they behave like waves and can exist in multiple states simultaneouslytwo properties that lie at the heart of quantum inertial sensors. The quantum inertial sensor aboard the X37B uses a technique called atom interferometry, where atoms are cooled to the temperature of near absolute zero, so they behave like waves. Using fine-tuned lasers, each atom is split into what's called a superposition state, similar to Schrodinger's cat, so that it simultaneously travels along two paths, which are then recombined. Since the atom behaves like a wave in quantum mechanics, these two paths interfere with each other, creating a pattern similar to overlapping ripples on water. Encoded in this pattern is detailed information about how the atom's environment has affected its journey. In particular, the tiniest shifts in motion, like sensor rotations or accelerations, leave detectable marks on these atomic "waves". Compared to classical inertial navigation systems, quantum sensors offer orders of magnitude greater sensitivity. Because atoms are identical and do not change, unlike mechanical components or electronics, they are far less prone to drift or bias. The result is long duration and high accuracy navigation without the need for external references. The upcoming X37B mission will be the first time this level of quantum inertial navigation is tested in space. Previous missions, such as NASA's Cold Atom Laboratory and German Space Agency's MAIUS-1, have flown atom interferometers in orbit or suborbital flights and successfully demonstrated the physics behind atom interferometry in space, though not specifically for navigation purposes. By contrast, the X37B experiment is designed as a compact, high-performance, resilient inertial navigation unit for real world, long-duration missions. It moves atom interferometry out of the realms of pure science and into a practical application for aerospace. This is a big leap. This has important implications for both military and civilian spaceflight. For the US Space Force, it represents a step towards greater operational resilience, particularly in scenarios where GPS might be denied. For future space exploration, such as to the moon, Mars or even deep space, where autonomy is key, a quantum navigation system could serve not only as a reliable backup but even as a primary system when signals from Earth are unavailable. Quantum navigation is just one part of the current, broader wave of quantum technologies moving from lab research into real-world applications. While quantum computing and quantum communication often steal headlines, systems like quantum clocks and quantum sensors are likely to be the first to see widespread use. Countries including the US, China and the UK are investing heavily in quantum inertial sensing, with recent airborne and submarine tests showing strong promise. In 2024, Boeing and AOSense conducted the world's first in-flight quantum inertial navigation test aboard a crewed aircraft. This demonstrated continuous GPS-free navigation for approximately four hours. That same year, the UK conducted its first publicly acknowledged quantum navigation flight test on a commercial aircraft. This summer, the X37B mission will bring these advances into space. Because of its military nature, the test could remain quiet and unpublicized. But if it succeeds, it could be remembered as the moment space navigation took a quantum leap forward. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain A recent study by researchers at the University of California San Diego is the first detailed assessment of companies offering school-based online surveillance services such as social media monitoring, student communications monitoring and online activity monitoring to middle and high schools. Schools pay for the services directly or may request federal grant funding to cover the costs. Originally intended to support students' mental health and prevent adverse school events, such as school shootings, the study found that school-based online surveillance companies are extensively monitoring students' digital behavior, both during and outside of school hours, often using artificial intelligence (AI) with little human oversight or transparency. The study did not delve into success metrics on the original intention of these companies. The research team identified 14 companies actively marketing online surveillance services frequently beyond school-issued devices and outside of school premises, raising concerns about privacy, equity and oversight. Key findings include: Eighty-six percent of companies monitor students 24 hours per day and 7 days per week, not just during school hours. Seventy-one percent use AI for automated flagging of "concerning activity;" only 43% use human review teams. The definition of "concerning activity" was not generally clearly defined by the companies but typically appeared to include topics such as suicidal ideation and violence. Ninety-three percent monitor school-issued devices; 36% also claim to monitor student-owned phones and computers but did not clarify if they monitor all activity on students' personal devices. Twenty-nine percent generate student "risk scores" based on online behavior, which can be viewed at the student, classroom or school level. Companies cited a variety of ways they gain access to student digital activity, including browser plug-ins, API integrations and device software. Further, the study found that companies rarely disclose pricing or performance data, and public-facing information is often vague or incomplete. Many companies collect and flag sensitive data, including students' private messages and search histories. Some provide dashboards to administrators, after-hours alert systems and even direct crisis intervention, such as contacting law enforcement. However, most companies offer little to no public information about their algorithms, potential error rates or bias mitigation strategies. The authors suggest that further research is needed on the prevalence of monitoring adoption across U.S. schools as well as how teachers and school administrators respond to alerts provided by the monitoring. The study was published on July 8, 2025, in the Journal of Medical Internet Research and was led by Cinnamon S. Bloss, Ph.D., professor at the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science and the director of the Center for Empathy and Technology, situated within the UC San Diego Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion. Alison O'Daffer, student in the San Diego State UniversityUC San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in clinical psychology, is the first author of the study. More information: Alison O'Daffer et al, School-Based Online Surveillance of Youth: Systematic Search and Content Analysis of Surveillance Company Websites, Journal of Medical Internet Research (2025). DOI: 10.2196/71998 Journal information: Journal of Medical Internet Research Declares ILS 40 million (~ ILS 0.29 per share) One-Time Dividend Second Quarter Revenue Increased 6.1% to ILS 336.3 million; Comparable Store Sales Increased 4.2%; Gross Margin Increased 210 Basis Points; Adjusted EBITDA Increased 26.0% CAESAREA, Israel, Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Max Stock Limited (TASE: MAXO) (the "Company") today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. Second Quarter 2025 Summary Revenue increased 6.1% to ILS 336.3 million. Comparable store sales increased 4.2%. Gross margin increased 210 basis points to 43.8%. Net income (100%) decreased 6.3% to ILS 27.5 million. The decrease reflects approximately ILS 15.9 million of interest expenses (ILS 12.2 million net of taxes) related to revaluation of hedging positions due to strengthening of the ILS vs. the USD as of June 30 th 2025 Adjusted EPS 1 (attributable to shareholders) decreased 6.8% to ILS 0.17. (attributable to shareholders) decreased 6.8% to ILS 0.17. Adjusted EBITDA2 increased 26.0% to ILS 56.5 million. First Half 2025 Summary Revenue increased 7.2% to ILS 675.4 million. Comparable store sales increased 3.6%. Gross margin increased 100 basis points to 43.0%. Net income (100%) increased 2.3% to ILS 59.4 million. Adjusted EPS 1 (attributable to shareholders) increased 2.9% to ILS 0.38. (attributable to shareholders) increased 2.9% to ILS 0.38. Adjusted EBITDA2 increased 19.0% to ILS 104.5 million. Note: Totals may be sightly impacted by minor rounding differences. 1 As used throughout this release, adjusted Net Income (attributable to shareholders) defined as Net Income + Share-based payment, multiplied by the portion attributable to shareholders. Adjusted EPS (attributable to shareholders) is then divided by the number of basic shares. 2 As used throughout this release, adjusted EBITDA Pre IFRS 16 defined as Net Income + Income Tax Expenses + Net Interest Expenses + D&A + Other Expenses the impact of IFRS 16 + Share-based payment. "We delivered strong second quarter operating results against tough year-over-year comparisons and despite an operating environment challenged by ongoing regional tensions," said Ori Max, Chief Executive Officer. "Comparable store sales increased 4.2% on top of a 14.5% gain in the year ago period while gross margins improved 210 basis points driven in part by our recent supply chain initiatives. These gains, along with meaningful operating expense leverage, fueled a 26% increase in our adjusted EBITDA, highlighting the strengths of our business model and the output of our key growth drivers. Looking ahead, we are confident that our diverse and compelling merchandise assortments and tremendous value proposition will continue to resonate strongly with consumers, fortifying our position as Israel's leading extreme discount retailer." Second Quarter Results (2025 compared with 2024) Revenue increased 6.1% to ILS 336.3 million in the second quarter 2025 as compared with revenue of ILS 316.9 million in the second quarter 2024. The increase over the same period last year was largely attributable to a 4.2% increase in comparable store sales driven by an increase in average basket size, increased traffic and higher seasonal sales, combined with the opening 'of new branches. Revenue growth was also attributable to an increase in sales to franchisees, due to increase in direct imports versus locally sourced inventory (made possible thanks to the new logistics center). Gross profit increased 11.6% to ILS 147.3 million in the second quarter 2025 from ILS 132.1 million in the second quarter 2024. Gross margin was 43.8% as compared to 41.7% in the prior year period. The 210-basis point improvement in gross margin was primarily attributable to trade and supply chain efficiency gains enabled by the Company's new logistics center, combined with the strengthening of the ILS vs. the USD and lower shipping costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses were ILS 90.5 million in the second quarter 2025 compared to ILS 88.0 million in the second quarter 2024. The increase was primarily driven by an increase in expenses associated with new store additions in the period. As a percent of sales, Selling, general and administrative expenses improved 80 basis-points and declined from 27.7% in the second quarter 2024 to 26.9% in the second quarter 2025, primarily reflecting operating leverage. Financing expenses totaled approximately ILS 25.0 million in the second quarter of 2025 compared to ILS 7.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. The increase in financing expenses was largely attributable to ILS 15.9 million of interest expenses (ILS 12.2 million net of taxes) related to revaluation of hedging positions for the next few quarters, due to strengthening of ILS vs. USD as of June 30th 2025. GAAP net income (100%) decreased 6.3% to ILS 27.5 million in the second quarter of 2025, as compared with GAAP net income (100%) of ILS 29.4 million in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted EPS attributable to shareholders decreased 6.8% to ILS 0.17 per share, in the second quarter of 2025, as compared with adjusted EPS attributable to shareholders of ILS 0.18 per share, in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA increased 26.0% to ILS 56.5 million in the second quarter of 2025 from ILS 44.8 million in the second quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased to 16.8% in the second quarter of 2025 compared with 14.2% in the second quarter of 2024. First Half Results (2025 compared with 2024) Revenue for the first half of 2025 increased 7.2% to ILS 675.4 million, compared with revenue of ILS 630.1 million in the first half of 2024. The increase in revenue was driven by a 3.6% gain in comparable store sales and the sales contribution from new branches. The increase in same stores sales was fueled by an increase in average basket size, increased store traffic and higher seasonal sales. Revenue growth was also attributable to an increase in sales to franchisees, due to increase in direct imports versus locally sourced inventory (made possible thanks to the new logistics center). Gross profit increased 9.8% to ILS 290.6 million in the first half of 2025 from ILS 264.6 million a year ago. Gross margin was ~43.0% as compared to ~42.0% in the prior year period. The 100-basis point improvement in gross margin year-over-year was driven primarily by trade and supply chain efficiency gains enabled by the Company's new logistics center, combined with the strengthening of the ILS vs. the USD and lower shipping costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to ILS 186.1 million in the first half of 2025 from ILS 177.7 million in the first half of 2024. The increase in operating expenses was related to branch expansion which added incremental expenses related to marketing, salary and the addition of right of use assets. As a percentage of sales, selling, general and administrative expenses improved 60 basis-points and were 27.5% in the first half of 2025 compared with 28.2% in the first half of 2024, primarily reflecting operating leverage. Financing expenses totaled approximately ILS 28.4 million in the first half of 2025 compared to ILS 15.2 million in the first half of 2024. The increase in financing expenses was largely attributable to ILS 10.9 million of interest expenses related to revaluation of hedging positions for the next few quarters, due to strengthening of ILS vs. USD as of June 30th 2025. GAAP net income (attributable to shareholders) increased 2.3% to ILS 59.4 million. Adjusted EPS1 (attributable to shareholders) increased 2.9% to ILS 0.38 in the first half of 2025 as compared with adjusted EPS1(attributable to shareholders) of ILS 0.37 per share, in the first half of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA2 increased 19.0% to ILS 104.5 million in the first half 2025 from ILS 87.8 million in 2024. Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Highlights The Company's cash and cash equivalents balance at June 30, 2025 was ILS 92.6 million compared with ILS 97.1 million at December 31, 2024 and ILS 94.6 million at June 30, 2024. The Company ended the second quarter of 2025 with total debt of ILS 37.2 million compared with total debt of ILS 47.1 million at December 31, 2024 and ILS 19.4 million at June 30, 2024. On August 13, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a one-time dividend of ILS 40 million or ILS 0.29 per share, payable to shareholders of record as of August 21, 2025. Inventories at June 30, 2025 were ILS 202.6 million compared with ILS 240.6 million at December 31, 2024 and ILS 175.2 million at June 30, 2024. The year-over-year increase in inventory was due to an intentional build given the low inventory levels in 2024, new branch openings, increased scale and an increase in direct imports versus locally sourced inventory enabled by the Company's new distribution center. Conference Call Information The Company will host a conference call on August 14, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time to discuss second quarter 2025 results (link). The conference call will also be accessible at https://ir.maxstock.co.il/en/event-en/.There will be a slide presentation that accompanies the call. The slides will be accessible at https://ir.maxstock.co.il/en/presentation-en/. An archived webcast of the conference call will be available at https://ir.maxstock.co.il/en/presentation-en/. About Max Stock Max Stock is Israel's leading extreme value retailer, currently present in 64 locations throughout Israel. We offer a broad assortment of quality products for customers' everyday needs at affordable prices, helping customers "Dream Big, Pay Small". For more information, please visit https://ir.maxstock.co.il Forward-Looking Statements It should be emphasized that this report includes forward-looking information as defined under the Securities Law, 5728-1968. Forward-looking information is uncertain information regarding the future, including forecasts, projections, estimates or other information which refer to a future event or matter, the eventuation of which is uncertain and/or not within the Company's control. The forward-looking information included in this report is based on the current information held by the Company or its current assessments, as of the publication date of this report. Company Contacts: Talia Sessler, Chief Corporate Development and IR Officer [email protected] SOURCE Max Stock Limited Cybersecurity researchers have disclosed a new Android trojan called PhantomCard that abuses near-field communication (NFC) to conduct relay attacks for facilitating fraudulent transactions in attacks targeting banking customers in Brazil. "PhantomCard relays NFC data from a victim's banking card to the fraudster's device," ThreatFabric said in a report. "PhantomCard is based on Chinese-originating NFC relay malware-as-a-service." The Android malware, distributed via fake Google Play web pages mimicking apps for card protection, goes by the name "Protecao Cartoes" (package name "com.nfupay.s145" or "com.rc888.baxi.English"). The bogus pages also feature deceptive positive reviews to persuade victims into installing the app. It's currently not known how links to these pages are distributed, but it likely involves smishing or a similar social engineering technique. Once the app is installed and opened, it requests victims to place their credit/debit card on the back of the phone to begin the verification process, at which point the user interface displays the message: "Card Detected! Keep the card nearby until authentication is complete." In reality, the card data is transmitted to an attacker-controlled NFC relay server by taking advantage of the built-in NFC reader built into modern devices. The PhantomCard-laced app then requests the victim to enter the PIN code with the goal of transmitting the information to the cybercriminal so as to authenticate the transaction. "As a result, PhantomCard establishes a channel between the victim's physical card and the PoS terminal / ATM that the cybercriminal is next to," ThreatFabric explained. "It allows the cybercriminal to use the victim's card as if it was in their hands." Similar to SuperCard X, there exists an equivalent app on the mule-side that's installed on their device to receive the stolen card information and ensure seamless communications between the PoS terminal and the victim's card. The Dutch security company said the actor behind the malware, Go1ano developer, is a "serial" reseller of Android threats in Brazil, and that PhantomCard is actually the handiwork of a Chinese malware-as-a-service offering known as NFU Pay that's advertised on Telegram. Go1ano developer, in their own Telegram channel, claims PhantomCard works globally, stating it is 100% undetectable and is compatible with all NFC-enabled point-of-sale (PoS) terminal devices. They also claim to be a "trusted partner" for other malware families like BTMOB and GhostSpy in the country. It's worth noting that NFU Pay is one of the many illicit services peddled on the underground that offer similar NFC relay capabilities, such as SuperCard X, KingNFC, and X/Z/TX-NFC. "Such threat actors pose additional risks to local financial organizations as they open the doors for a wider variety of threats from all over the world, which could have potentially stayed away from certain regions due to language and cultural barriers, specifics of financial system, lack of cash-out ways," ThreatFabric said. "This, consequently, complicates the threat landscape for local financial organizations and calls out for proper monitoring of the global threats and actors behind it targeting the organization." In a report published last month warning of a spike in NFC-enabled fraud in the Philippines, Resecurity said Southeast Asia has become a testing ground for NFC fraud, with bad actors targeting regional banks and financial service providers. "With tools such as Z-NFC, X-NFC, SuperCard X, and Track2NFC, attackers can clone stolen card data and perform unauthorized transactions using NFC-enabled devices," Resecurity said. "These tools are widely available in underground forums and private messaging groups. The resulting fraud is difficult to detect, as the transactions appear to originate from trusted, authenticated devices. In markets like the Philippines, where contactless payment usage is rising and low-value transactions often bypass PIN verification, such attacks are harder to trace and stop in real time." The disclosure comes as K7 Security uncovered an Android malware campaign dubbed SpyBanker aimed at Indian banking users that's likely distributed to users via WhatsApp under the guise of a customer help service app. "Interestingly, this Android SpyBanker malware edits the 'Call Forward Number' to a hard-coded mobile number, controlled by the attacker, by registering a service called 'CallForwardingService' and redirects the user's calls," the company said. "Incoming calls to the victims when left unattended are diverted to the call forwarded number to carry out any desired malicious activity." Furthermore, the malware comes fitted with capabilities to collect victims' SIM details, sensitive banking information, SMS messages, and notification data. Indian banking users have also been targeted by Android malware that's designed to siphon financial information, while simultaneously dropping the XMRig cryptocurrency miner on compromised devices. The malicious credit card apps are distributed via convincing phishing pages that use real assets taken from official banking websites. The list of malicious apps is as follows - Axis Bank Credit Card (com.NWilfxj.FxKDr) ICICI Bank Credit Card (com.NWilfxj.FxKDr) IndusInd Credit Card (com.NWilfxj.FxKDr) State Bank of India Credit Card (com.NWilfxj.FxKDr) The malware is designed to display a bogus user interface that prompts victims to enter their personal information, including names, card numbers, CVV codes, expiry dates, and mobile numbers. A notable aspect of the app is its ability to listen to specific messages sent via Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) to trigger the mining process. "The app delivered through these phishing sites functions as a dropper, meaning it initially appears harmless but later dynamically loads and executes the actual malicious payload," McAfee researcher Dexter Shin said. "This technique helps evade static detection and complicates analysis." "These phishing pages load images, JavaScript, and other web resources directly from the official websites to appear legitimate. However, they include additional elements such as 'Get App' or 'Download' buttons, which prompt users to install the malicious APK file." The findings also follow a report from Zimperium zLabs detailing how rooting frameworks like KernelSU, APatch, and SKRoot can be used to gain root access and escalate privileges, allowing an attacker to gain full control of Android devices. The mobile security company said it discovered in mid-2023 a security flaw in KernelSU (version 0.5.7) that it said could allow attackers to authenticate as the KernelSU manager and completely compromise a rooted Android device via a malicious application already installed on it that also bundles the official KernelSU manager APK. However, an important caveat to pull off this attack is that it's only effective if the threat actor application is executed before the legitimate KernelSU manager application. "Because system calls can be triggered by any app on the device, strong authentication and access controls are essential," security researcher Marcel Bathke said. "Unfortunately, this layer is often poorly implemented or entirely neglected which opens the door to serious security risks. Improper authentication can allow malicious apps to gain root access and fully compromise the device." Update In a separate report published this week, Recorded Future said Chinese-speaking threat actors are increasingly using the NFC-based relay technique, called Ghost Tap, to commit retail fraud by using stolen payment card details linked to mobile payment services like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Some of the activity has been traced back to @webu8 and @djdj8884, who have been advertising burner phones, ghost-tapping services, and compromised payment card credentials to Chinese-speaking threat groups on Telegram and engaged with threat actors involved in retail fraud campaigns. These services are peddled on Telegram-based escrow platforms, such as HuiOne Guarantee, Xinbi Guarantee, and Tudou Guarantee. "This technique allows these threat actors to provide mules with stolen payment card details linked to contactless payment systems in person to obtain physical goods, eventually transporting and reselling stolen goods for profit," the Mastercard-owned company said. "Chinese-speaking cybercriminals are using automation to add stolen payment card information to contactless payment wallets, selling burner phones, and providing an unspecified peripheral software capable of relaying payment card details to separate mobile devices to multiple Chinese-speaking criminal syndicates." Google shared the below statement with the The Hacker News following the publication of the story - Based on our current detection, no apps containing this malware are found on Google Play. Android users are automatically protected against known versions of this malware by Google Play Protect, which is on by default on Android devices with Google Play Services. Vietnam aviation authority supports full shift of international flights to Long Thanh airport By VNA Thu, August 14, 2025 | 10:31 pm GMT+7 The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) backed a sweeping plan to transfer all international flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai province, which will be put into operation in 2026. The plan aims to establish the new facility as a major regional aviation hub capable of competing with the world's largest airports. Long Thanh Intenrational Airport is envisoned to become a major regional aviation hub. Photo courtesy of VNA. Earlier, the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) submitted a report and sought feedback from state management agencies as well as domestic and foreign airlines on how to divide flight operations between the two airports. The ACVs partner, the Incheon Airport Consortium (IAC), which is advising on the Long Thanh International Airports management and operation, proposed two primary scenarios for dividing flight operations between the two airports. The first proposal calls for a complete separation of domestic and international operations. Under this scenario, Tan Son Nhat will focus on domestic flights, handling an estimated 29.5 million passengers annually, while Long Thanh will be in charge of all international flights, processing some 19.1 million international passengers a year along with 1.5 million domestic passengers to facilitate connections. This approach means Tan Son Nhat will operate 95% of domestic flights and Long Thanh will get the complete operation of international flights, establishing the new facility as the key international transit hub in southern Vietnam. Under this scenario, advantages include enhanced efficiency, reduced operating costs, and clear international hub identity for Long Thanh. Besides, passengers will no longer face transfers between two airports which currently require a minimum 4.5 hours and create significant flight connection risks. The IAC also said that this approach will reduce long-term congestion pressure on Tan Son Nhat while capitalizing on Long Thanhs round-the-clock operation due to its location away from residential areas, eliminating noise concerns. However, this will come with trade-offs as passengers from Ho Chi Minh City traveling on short-haul international routes will face longer ground transport time to reach the Long Thanh airport. Another proposal suggests allocating international operations based on flight distance. Under this framework, Tan Son Nhat will continue handling domestic flights as well as maintaining short-haul international routes within a 1,000-kilometre radius, serving around 3.8 million international passengers annually. Long Thanh will manage all long-haul international flights and several domestic ones for transfer purposes, handling around 15.3 million international passengers a year. The hybrid model offers practical benefits, particularly for travelers from central Ho Chi Minh City making short regional trips to destinations like Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Besides, it reduces initial investment and operating pressure on Long Thanh. Yet this comes at a significant price. Maintaining international operations will substantially increase costs across multiple dimensions, from staffing and equipment to immigration, customs and quarantine services. The dual-airport system will also create confusion among passengers, extend connection time and costs for transfers between the two airports, complicate regulatory coordination, and weaken Long Thanhs competitiveness as a regional transit hub, among others. The ACV said that transferring all international cargo and passenger operations to Long Thanh is critical for establishing and sustaining efficient air transit capacity. It aligns with development trends while delivering significant economic, operational, and planning benefits for the national aviation system. International airlines also back moving all of the scheduled international flights to Long Thanh, recognizing the operational advantages of consolidated facilities. Among domestic carriers, Vietnam Airlines proposed a hybrid approach, operating domestic and regional flights from Tan Son Nhat, and handling international flights beyond Southeast Asia at Long Thanh, plus other flights as chosen by airlines. Foreign airlines would operate exclusively from Long Thanh. The Ministry of Construction ordered the CAAV and ACV to work closely with airlines to meticulously study and assess the impact of these operational scenarios and to finalise the timeline for transferring international routes from Tan Son Nhat to Long Thanh in September. The $18,000 raise voted by legislators for themselves and signed by Gov. Henry McMaster on June 4, 2025, was falsely labeled as designed to reimburse legislators for their fictional in-district expense, but in reality, the $18,000 is a grant of state funds to help incumbent legislators who voted for the raise to win re-election because the provision allows that the $18,000 can be spent for any and all purposes, including to pay for reelection expenses. Letter to the editor - Time to consolidate counties in S.C. The current 46 counties in South Carolina were created in the 1800s in horse and buggy days when horses walked 4 miles in an hour and it took a day or more to ride from the edges of counties to the county seats to attend county court and pay county taxes. Incumbent legislators often have won elections once or more due to the fact that they are elected in districts gerrymandered by race and part in their favor. And incumbent legislators already are paid $12,000 per year in in-district funds and the recent $18,000 raise mean that each incumbent will be paid $30,000 a year with no strings attached. Incumbent state representatives will take in $60,000 every two years which they can spend on House elections held every two years and incumbent senators will collect $120,000 during their four-year terms to spend for their re-elections. Information about complaints against SC judges will be released to the public For the first time, summaries of complaints against sitting South Carolina judges and actions taken will be made public, the State Supreme Court ordered Wednesday. However, the names of the judges criticized will be redacted from the summaries of the complaints and resolutions, according to an order signed by all five justices. Up to now, complaints against South Carolina judges and their ... Thus, it is that the Republican majorities in the House and Senate and the Republican governor have created the first public campaign finance system in state history even though Republicans long have adamantly denounced the idea of using taxpayers funds to help candidates for state and federal elections. Get The Times and Democrat app today Local news has never been this personal. Free to download. Subscribers enjoy unlimited access. McMaster signed off on the $18,000 raise proviso allowing for the taxpayers money to be spent for any purpose including for campaign expenses, even though McMaster, as a member of the Campaign Finance Reform Commission appointed by Gov. Jim Hodges in 2001, on which I served, rejected the majority report which recommended that South Carolina create a public campaign finance system to provide limited state funds to both incumbent and non-incumbent candidates for legislative offices. (Member Dick Harpootlian also dissented and opposed public finance of campaigns and has filed a lawsuit against the $18,000 raise.) The $18,000 raise approved only for incumbents will aggravate the critical and chronic problem of so many legislative races recently being uncontested against incumbents. In the 2014 general elections for the Senate, 20 of 46 seats were not contested by a major party candidate and in the House, 77 of 124 seats offered only one major party candidate. Incumbents usually have great advantages in fund-raising and being able to pressure special interests, corporations and associations to give maximum amounts to their campaigns. The total of $30,000 a year in state funds paid to incumbents by the proviso will probably cause even fewer non-incumbents to challenge incumbent representatives favored by $60,000 and incumbent senators favored with $120,000 at the same time that out-gunned non-incumbents get nothing. The aggravated problem of uncontested legislative elections in which incumbents load up on campaign donations from corporations which expect favors in return and are afraid not to donate to incumbents for fear of retaliation is a major corrupting factor in South Carolina state government because incumbents feel that they are not, in fact, responsible to voters, but have only to answer to big money corporations which give them the campaign funds the need to win. Secondly, the domination of incumbent in the Legislature where seniority is a major factor in allocating leadership positions, especially in the Senate, results in elite control of legislation and appointments by a small number of long-term legislators, including the speaker of the House, President of the Senate, majority leaders, and key committee chairmen of Senate and House Judiciary committees and Senate Finance and House Ways and Means committees. Rotation in office is a basic principle of American government, but at the state level in the 34 states without legislative term limits like South Carolina, the problem of long service and geriatric legislators is aggravated by state funding of incumbent candidates. In the years I have served as a non-profit lobbyist at the State House since 1987. I have seen the consequences of uncontested elections which return incumbents to office for term after term who become arrogant and corrupt over the years and are not held to account by either their own legislative colleagues or by the voters who have no way of voting in replacements. The problem financially of uncompetitive elections was evident by the recent State House corruption scandals and criminal prosecutions which convicted seven long-term legislators, including Sen. John Courson (1985-2017), Sen. Robert Ford (1993-2013), Rep. Jim Harrison (1989-2012), Rep. Jim Merrill (2001-2017), Rep. & Former House Speaker Bobby Harrell (1992-2014), Rep. Tracy Edge (1996-2012 and Rep. Rick Quinn, Jr. (1989-2004, 2011-2017). All of those convicted at the State House had long histories as incumbents of raising large amount of campaign contributions in partisan gerrymandered districts and were able to easily outclass the paltry campaign funds of their opponents, leaving voters little or no choice in primaries and general elections. If the Legislature is going to try to pass another proviso or bill to pay themselves more state money, there should be clearcut restrictions on the money to prohibit the use of taxpayers money to finance election campaigns and there should be limits on the use of the money to pay for only actual expense reimbursements related to service in Legislature. Finally, if the Legislature tries to pay itself more taxpayers money by way of salary increases or additional payments for real or imaginary office-related reimbursements, the proposed increases should be put on the ballot at the next general elections for the voters to approve or reject. John V. Crangle Attorney at Law S.C. Progressive Network Despite Widespread Use of Technology in the Workplace, Employees Say Automation and AI Adoption Lag Far Behind Expectations ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A new 2025 Technology Enablement Survey from Eagle Hill Consulting finds that most U.S. employees use workplace technology and believe it can improve productivity. However, the survey also finds that organizations are falling short in terms of maximizing their investment by not adopting a people-centric approach, which leads to delivering the automation and AI capabilities employees want and need to work smarter. The survey of more than 1,400 U.S. workers reveals: 79% use technology in their day-to-day work. 69% say technology makes their job easier. 64% believe automation of repetitive tasks would boost productivity. Only 38% say automation has eliminated tedious tasks in the past year. Just 20% report their organization has improved automation in the past year. 41% say their organization is not prepared for increasing automation trends. The data also reveal significant generational challenges. Only 56% of employees aged 58+ say technology makes their jobs easier, 13 percentage points below the general workforce. Meanwhile, 43% of workers aged 58+ say they receive inadequate support during tech rollouts, compared to 33% overall. Additionally, workers report that AI adoption remains slow. Sixty-seven percent of employees aren't using AI at work, but more than half of these non-users want to learn. With AI emerging as a critical driver of business performance, 41% of employees report that their organization is ill-prepared to adapt to its growth. "Employees clearly see the promise of technology, automation, and AI, but too often these tools are rolled out without aligning them to actual workflows or providing adequate support, especially for seasoned employees who hold critical institutional knowledge," said Melissa Jezior, president and CEO of Eagle Hill Consulting. "Organizations that put people at the center of their tech strategies by involving employees early, redesigning processes, and addressing generational needs will see the greatest returns in productivity, morale, and long-term success." The survey also found that when technology improvements are deployed, employees report the top benefits include helping workers access information faster (33%), completing tasks more quickly (32%) and improving work quality (28%). The survey underscores the importance of pairing new technology with redesigned business processes. When new processes accompany technology rollouts, employees are more than twice as likely to report gains in speed, access to information, and work quality. Read more in Aligning Technology with Workforce Needs for Maximum Impact. Read five ways to bridge the enablement gap with a people-centric strategy. The 2025 Eagle Hill Consulting Technology Enablement Survey was conducted by Ipsos in May 2025 and included 1,436 respondents from a random sample of U.S. employees, plus an augment of government employees. Respondents were asked about their experiences and views related to workplace technology, automation, and AI. Eagle Hill Consulting LLC is an award-winning business that provides unconventional management consulting services in the areas of Organizational Performance, Business Intelligence, Technology Enablement, Talent, and Change Management. The company's expertise in delivering innovative solutions to unique challenges spans across Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and global nonprofits. Eagle Hill has offices in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, Boston, MA, and Seattle, WA. More information is available at www.eaglehillconsulting.com. SOURCE Eagle Hill Consulting LLC Feature: Kazakhstan scholar translating Chinese wisdom to world Xinhua) 09:09, August 14, 2025 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. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Blog Archive: Aug 2025 (130) Jul 2025 (155) Jun 2025 (150) May 2025 (155) Apr 2025 (9) Mar 2025 (149) Feb 2025 (139) Jan 2025 (155) Dec 2024 (144) Nov 2024 (143) Oct 2024 (155) Sep 2024 (149) Aug 2024 (155) Jul 2024 (155) Jun 2024 (150) May 2024 (153) Apr 2024 (149) Mar 2024 (155) Feb 2024 (145) Jan 2024 (155) Dec 2023 (155) Nov 2023 (150) Oct 2023 (155) Sep 2023 (150) Aug 2023 (155) Jul 2023 (155) Jun 2023 (150) May 2023 (155) Apr 2023 (150) Mar 2023 (155) Feb 2023 (140) Jan 2023 (155) Dec 2022 (156) Nov 2022 (150) Oct 2022 (155) Sep 2022 (150) Aug 2022 (155) Jul 2022 (154) Jun 2022 (150) May 2022 (155) Apr 2022 (150) Mar 2022 (155) Feb 2022 (140) Jan 2022 (156) Dec 2021 (156) Nov 2021 (150) Oct 2021 (155) Sep 2021 (150) Aug 2021 (155) Jul 2021 (155) Jun 2021 (150) May 2021 (155) Apr 2021 (150) Mar 2021 (155) Feb 2021 (140) Jan 2021 (155) Dec 2020 (155) Nov 2020 (150) Oct 2020 (158) Sep 2020 (150) Aug 2020 (130) Jul 2020 (124) Jun 2020 (120) May 2020 (124) Apr 2020 (120) Mar 2020 (124) Feb 2020 (116) Jan 2020 (125) Dec 2019 (126) Nov 2019 (120) Oct 2019 (124) Sep 2019 (120) Aug 2019 (125) Jul 2019 (124) Jun 2019 (120) May 2019 (123) Apr 2019 (121) Mar 2019 (124) Feb 2019 (112) Jan 2019 (125) Dec 2018 (126) Nov 2018 (120) Oct 2018 (124) Sep 2018 (121) Aug 2018 (124) Jul 2018 (125) Jun 2018 (120) May 2018 (124) Apr 2018 (121) Mar 2018 (124) Feb 2018 (112) Jan 2018 (123) Dec 2017 (124) Nov 2017 (124) Oct 2017 (141) Sep 2017 (135) Aug 2017 (138) Jul 2017 (137) Jun 2017 (134) May 2017 (138) Apr 2017 (135) Mar 2017 (139) Feb 2017 (129) Jan 2017 (143) Dec 2016 (135) Nov 2016 (138) Oct 2016 (142) Sep 2016 (128) Aug 2016 (133) Jul 2016 (136) Jun 2016 (138) May 2016 (164) Apr 2016 (311) Mar 2016 (348) Feb 2016 (320) Jan 2016 (348) Dec 2015 (314) Nov 2015 (338) Oct 2015 (363) Sep 2015 (358) Aug 2015 (399) Jul 2015 (374) Jun 2015 (331) May 2015 (337) Apr 2015 (319) Mar 2015 (320) Feb 2015 (271) Jan 2015 (286) Dec 2014 (254) Nov 2014 (238) Oct 2014 (287) Sep 2014 (267) Aug 2014 (259) Jul 2014 (260) Jun 2014 (238) May 2014 (241) Apr 2014 (228) Mar 2014 (240) Feb 2014 (217) Jan 2014 (263) Dec 2013 (226) Nov 2013 (254) Oct 2013 (256) Sep 2013 (252) Aug 2013 (263) Jul 2013 (261) Jun 2013 (251) May 2013 (250) Apr 2013 (221) Mar 2013 (193) Feb 2013 (164) Jan 2013 (157) Dec 2012 (155) Nov 2012 (240) Oct 2012 (526) Sep 2012 (411) Aug 2012 (394) Jul 2012 (284) Jun 2012 (229) May 2012 (213) Apr 2012 (213) Mar 2012 (253) Feb 2012 (269) Jan 2012 (298) Dec 2011 (273) Nov 2011 (219) Oct 2011 (204) Sep 2011 (201) Aug 2011 (236) Jul 2011 (217) Jun 2011 (211) May 2011 (206) Apr 2011 (215) Mar 2011 (215) Feb 2011 (186) Jan 2011 (215) Dec 2010 (107) Nov 2010 (98) Oct 2010 (55) SIXTY-YEAR-OLD David Greeves died after he attempted to save his home which caught fire whil INDIA is saying in no uncertain terms that it is independent in the fullest sense of the wor Raytheon in Tucson has been awarded another major military contract. The new $258 million Navy contract is to develop a defense system that protects ships against enemy aircraft and incoming missiles. The new contract comes on the heels of a $344 million ship-defense contract the company received in April related to the integration and testing of the SM-2 missile system. The majority of work will be performed in Tucson and is expected to be completed by September 2031, a company news release said. This contract signals the increased demand given the critical role these interceptors are playing for the U.S. and our allies, Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon said in the release. The SM-2 Block IIICU variant incorporates several upgrades and will provide the U.S. Navy with a more capable and versatile missile The companys advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAM) is used by the Air Force and Navy, as well as foreign military. Raytheon did not say the impact on jobs the new contract will have here, where the company also makes bunker-busting bombs and the Tomahawk cruise missile. The Tucson work is expected to be complete in 2031. The new contract complements the $3.5 billion contract from the Department of Defense Raytheon received earlier this month to make air-to-air missiles. The company also received a $1.1 billion Navy contract in June. PHOENIX Senate President Warren Petersen is asking the Federal Communications Commission to investigate KAET-TV, the Phoenix PBS affiliate, and to potentially revoke the stations license. In a letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, the Gilbert Republican said the station acted improperly in its 2022 decision to give a half-hour interview to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Katie Hobbs after she refused to debate GOP opponent Kari Lake. That, he said, violated the agreement KAET had with the Citizens Clean Elections Commission to deny such an opportunity to those who would not face their foes. Lake also was given an opportunity for a 30-minute interview with Ted Simons, who hosts the stations public affairs program. But she refused after hearing that KAET was giving Hobbs an interview despite her refusing to participate in the debate as required under the Clean Elections rules. Worse, Petersen said, is that documents unearthed by The Arizona Republic found that Arizona State University President Michael Crow was involved at least indirectly in the decision to give airtime to Hobbs, at one point talking about the election denier issue. That referred to the fact that Lake was campaigning for governor on the false claim that Donald Trump defeated Joe Biden in Arizona in the 2020 presidential race despite official results and several lawsuits confirming Bidens win. The newspaper also found that Mi-Ai Parrish, who had headed ASUs media enterprise operations, had told the head of the Clean Elections Commission that putting a person on television with those views was wrong. All that was illegal, Petersen contends. A spokesman for Scott Woelful, the station manager, said Wednesday there would be no comment. There were no immediate responses from representatives of ASU itself. In his letter to Carr, the Arizona Senate president, who is running for state attorney general, cited a 1998 U.S. Supreme Court ruling which said broadcasters cannot grant or deny access to a candidate debate on the basis of whether it agrees with a candidates views. The court said such viewpoint discrimination would present an inevitability of skewing the electoral dialogue. Petersen said internal emails showed that ASU officials were convinced Hobbs would win, even after refusing to debate Lake. In the end, Hobbs won by 17,116 votes out of nearly 2.6 million votes cast. Based on 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. The FCC should investigate Arizona PBS blatant viewpoint discrimination against Kari Lake and partisan calculations designed to benefit Katie Hobbs, Petersen said. He said he is seeking appropriate enforcement action, including license revocation, to protect the public interest and ensure that Arizonans will not be subjected to biased media manipulation in the future. PHOENIX State lawmakers are violating their constitutional requirements to adequately fund public schools so that students can learn, a judge has ruled. Many schools lack the resources to do everything from providing adequate equipment to keeping buildings in repair, said Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Dewain Fox in a a 114-page decision released Wednesday. He cited a laundry list of unmet needs including in some cases buildings that are unsafe because of cracks and other deficiencies. And Fox said the state has failed to provide funds for legally required improvements, including keeping students safe from potential shooters. The judge acknowledged that some districts do have the resources through local taxes to meet at least some of their needs. But he said that is irrelevant as the Arizona Constitution requires the Legislature to establish and fund a general and uniform public school system. Instead, what lawmakers have established is a system in which schools that dont have the same tax base essentially need to beg to get a share of the limited and he said inadequate funds set aside each year. The bottom line, Fox said, is he will issue a permanent injunction requiring lawmakers to come up with the funds to meet their obligations. Less clear is how quickly that can occur, and in what form. Lawmaker plans to appeal ruling Arizona House Speaker Steve Montenegro promised Wednesday to take the new ruling to a higher court. That is not surprising as GOP leaders have argued against the lawsuit since the case was first filed in 2017. Attorneys for the Legislature have contended there is no constitutional requirement for the state to fund some of the expenses that challengers said are needed to maintain an adequate school system. They also question whether any court has the power to tell lawmakers what should be in the minimum guidelines the state is expected to fund. Such matters invade the exclusive power of the Legislature, are non-justiciable, and therefore do not create a viable claim over which the court may assume jurisdiction, wrote William Richards, an attorney representing the Legislature. Fox, with the new ruling, acknowledged he has no right to second-guess decisions by the Legislature on how best to fund public education. What judges do have, he said, is the power to determine whether those policy decisions are constitutional. After carefully and thoroughly reviewing the record and considering the parties arguments, the court concludes that the current public school capital finance system does not meet the constitutional minimum standards established by the Arizona Supreme Court, Fox wrote. He detailed exactly where lawmakers have fallen short, describing leaking roofs, schools without needed security, not enough computers and unreliable buses. The vow of an appeal disappointed Danny Adelman. Hes the director of the Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest, which filed the original lawsuit. The Legislature and the governor can fix this ... without going through long, expensive appeals, he said. They just have to have the will to do that. Ways to force compliance Even assuming Foxs ruling is upheld, there is a question about how he could force lawmakers to come up with the needed dollars. Adelman acknowledges that a court cannot order state lawmakers to raise taxes. But there are ways to ensure compliance. Consider what happened decades ago when the Arizona Supreme Court found the school finance system unconstitutional. At that time, the justices gave lawmakers 60 days to bring the school finance system into compliance with what the constitution requires. More to the point, the justices told lawmakers unless they came up with an acceptable plan, they would block the state treasurer from distributing funds to schools, effectively shutting them down. That got the Legislatures attention, Adelman said, adding that could once again be the hammer to force lawmakers to act. Ultimately, he said, legislators need to recognize the difference between the things they would like to do and those that are constitutionally required of them. The Legislature decided it wanted to spend almost $1 billion on vouchers, Adelman said, state dollars that allow students to attend private or parochial schools or are given to parents for home schooling. Well, thats a want-to, he said. But there are other things they have to do under the constitution. And adequately funding our public schools is in the have-to category. Schools shorted by up to $7 billion As to what it will cost, thats another question. Adelman said the evidence presented shows the state shorted schools by between $6 billion and $7 billion by the time of the court ruling. Those dollars, he said, should be made up to help schools buy and fix all the things they could not afford despite the legal requirements. The financial situation is not getting better, Fox said, with lawmakers failing to fund even current requests for necessary items. The judge said all the blame cant be laid entirely at the feet of the Republican-controlled Legislature. Fox said that at the beginning of the last budget year the School Facilities District, which is responsible for funding construction and repairs, estimated it needed more than $587 million to meet all the identified needs. Yet the Department of Administration, which reports to Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, requested less than $222 million. And the governors budget proposal provided for Building Renewal grant funding of less than $200 million, the judge wrote. In a written response, Christian Slater, press aide to the governor, said Hobbs has secured more than $1 billion in the last three years to update and build school facilities. But Slater also acknowledged the ongoing problem, saying the Governors Office is reviewing the judges ruling and considering paths forward to address longstanding issues in facility funding. Adelman said the constitution requires more than just construction and repair of buildings. The Legislature clearly understood that after prior Supreme Court rulings, directing creation of a list of the minimum things needed to have a quality education, he said. That includes the technology that should be available, meeting transportation needs and adequate cooling and heating. So when they dont provide sufficient funding to do even what the state said This is what is required to enable children to meet minimum academic standards, then, by definition, youre not giving kids what they need to have a good education, Adelman said. Inadequate security measures That doesnt even consider that the state-set standards really havent been kept up to date, he said. Consider security. A lot has changed about school districts need for adequate security since Sandy Hook, Adelman said, referring to the 2012 mass shooting at an elementary school in Newton, Connecticut that killed 20 young children and six adult staffers. He said while Arizona state officials studied security needs, they never put the recommendations in the guidelines. Fox took notice. He said schools have been denied money to rekey doors to lock from the inside, install security fencing around schools, install features to funnel campus visitors to the office, and place bulletproof film on large windows. So what that meant was, mostly only schools that have sufficient local wealth could implement those things, Adelman said. And the other schools couldnt. That goes to another flaw Fox found with the system: Disparities between rich school districts that have a property tax base large enough to raise money for new buildings, repairs and other items, and districts that do not a situation that runs afoul of the requirement for a general and uniform school system. For example, the judge said, the bonding capacity of Tempe Union High School District is 3.5 times greater than that of Yuma Union High School District. That means it costs richer districts less money in tax hikes to raise a dollar than the poorer districts. Aside from the inability of poorer districts to pay for new schools and repairs when the state does not, Fox said the system has shown problems in other ways. TUSD lacks capital funds In Tucson Unified School District, the judge said, the amount of capital funds received is not sufficient to maintain its current bus fleet without breakdowns and failed air conditioning. He said the district is stuck spending more and more money to replace part after part on vehicles that are past their useful life. Of note is that what is considered capital funding what the state is supposed to provide extends to other things like technology and computers. Fox said the state updated its technology standard in 2023 to say there should be one computer for each student. Only thing is, he said, no funding was provided to districts to implement the change. The new ruling is filled with examples of students being short-changed and how the decisions by lawmakers not to properly fund repairs were short-sighted. The judge noted that even state officials in charge of providing funding acknowledged that keeping school roofs in good condition is cheaper than what happens after they start leaking, including exposed mold and asbestos. And then there is the impact on education. Fox mentioned Elfrida Elementary School where testimony showed the roof leaks when it rains. The leaks disrupt the learning environment because students stop what they are doing to position trash cans to collect the dripping water, the ruling states. The Bowie school district, Fox said, needs three new roofs on its schools. In one case, a leak at A.R. Spikes High School in Bowie has caused significant damage to the auditoriums interior ceiling and wall, with the cost of replacement now at $1.25 million. And at Bowies Bruce Brown Gym, rain poured through the roof onto the bleachers, damaging the ceiling and cracking the brick wall. Estimated replacement cost is $1.98 million. The Copper World mining project south of Tucson reaped a big financial boost Wednesday: Japan-based Mitsubishi Corp. will invest $600 million towards construction of the complex of six open pits at an estimated tab of at least $1.7 billion. Mitsubishi has agreed to buy what amounts to about a 30% stake in the mine, Copper World developer Hudbay Minerals Inc. announced. Mitsubishi will invest in Copper World LLC, a wholly owned Hudbay subsidiary that will build and operating the mine. In Mitsubishi, Hudbay will be partnering with a company with extensive experience in the mining business. The company is one of the largest Japanese trading houses with a global mining presence and a significant U.S.-based business, Hudbay said in its news release announcing the investment. Mitsubishi is the strategic partner of choice with investments in a world-class portfolio of large and high-quality copper assets, Hudbay said. Mitsubishis contribution, which could grow over time if the mine expands as Hudbay officials want to do, amounts to the single biggest outside investment in the mine since Hudbays predecessor Augusta Resource Corp. bought private land for the project in the Santa Rita Mountains 20 years ago. A South Korean-based partnership, United Copper & Moly, agreed to pay $176 million in 2020 to invest in the mine, including $70 million in pre-construction costs and the remaining $106 million once all permits for the mine were in place. But Hudbay bought the partnership out in 2019 for $75 million after one of the partners experienced financial problems. In more good financial news for the mine, Hudbay also announced Wednesday that Wheaton Precious Metals Corp., formerly known as Silver Wheaton, has agreed to pay up to $70 million for a future, potential expansion of a mill at the Copper World site on top of an initial investment by the company of $230 million. By itself, the Mitsubishi investment leaves Hudbay only $200 million short of the investment capital it needs to raise for Copper World, the Toronto-based mining company said in its news release Wednesday. It also delays Hudbays first contribution to the mines capital investments until 2028, the company said. Mitsubishis $600 million initial investment will consist of $420 million at the time the deal is closed and $180 million within 18 months of closing, Hudbay said. Prior to Wednesdays announcement, Hudbay had already received more than another $600 million in investments in cash and cash equivalents, far exceeding its balance sheet targets, the companys news release said. The company plans to advance the project another step next year when it releases a final financial feasibility study for Copper World. The results of that study will play a key role in Hudbays ultimate decision on whether and when to start actual construction of the long-delayed project. What the company calls a sanctioning decision by its board of directors on starting construction of Phase 1 of Copper World is also due next year, the company says. Securing Mitsubishi as a 30% partner in Copper World is an important milestone for Hudbay as we establish a long-term strategic partnership to advance this high-quality copper project ... and to unlock significant value in our copper growth portfolio, said Peter Kukielski, Hudbays president and chief executive officer. I have a long history of involvement with joint ventures over my career ... and Ive seen how strategic joint ventures have built some of the best mines in the world, said Kukielski, who said he worked with Mitsubishi in the 1990s and 2000s to develop the Antamina Mine in Peru. After a highly robust and competitive process, we have selected the premier partner of choice in Mitsubishi. Through this partnership we will leverage our complementary strengths to deliver our world-class Copper World project, produce domestic copper in the U.S. for the U.S. critical minerals supply chain and create value for all our stakeholders. Participating in Copper World is of significant strategic importance for Mitsubishi towards realizing its growth strategy within the copper sector, a Mitsubishi official was quoted as saying in Hudbays news release. We are pleased to collaborate with Hudbay, whose operational and development expertise is well-recognized and proven, to advance a definitive feasibility study. Drawing on our knowledge in copper mining investment developed through partnerships with global mining companies, and extensive business experience in North America developed over many years across diverse sectors including mineral resources trading, we aim to unlock the full potential of Copper World together with Hudbay, said Taro Abe, chief operating officer of Mitsubishis Critical Minerals Division, Mineral Resources Group. Since 2019, the project has at times struggled, thanks to a pair of federal court rulings in 2019 and 2020 that prevented construction of Hudbays Rosemont Mine on the Santa Ritas east slope, rulings that stemmed from lawsuits brought by some of the mines opponents. But since then, Hudbay, which bought Augusta in 2014, has shifted its emphasis from developing the old Rosemont Mine site on private and federal land on the Santa Ritas east slope to strictly private land on the west slope, significantly increasing at least the mines short-term prospects. Its received at least four permits from Arizona agencies for the new mine, led by air quality and groundwater protection permits issued by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. Because it's on private land, the project requires no federal permits. But that could change when and if Hudbay returns to the mountains' east slope to try to develop that area. Two lawsuits against the mine and the state are still pending: one opposing the air quality permit and a second opposing the state Land Departments 2022 decision to grant the company a right-of-way through a small slice of the state-owned Santa Rita Experimental Range to build an underground mine tailings pipeline. But even if successful, neither of the lawsuits is likely to stop the mine from being built. A successful challenge to the air quality permit would simply force the state to revise the permit, most likely to increase state oversight and monitoring of the mines air emissions. If the courts throw out the Land Departments right-of-way for the tailings pipeline, Hudbay most likely would have to get it re-routed through U.S. Bureau of Land Management land, which would require much more environmental scrutiny and delay the mine but not likely stop it, given the Trump administration efforts to fast-track mining projects on federal land. MOFA targets dramas, docos and factual formats Sweetshop & Green and MOFA have partnered for a new-look production company. Sweetshop & Green led by producer Gal Greenspan, and MOFA founded by Llew Griffiths and Nick Kelly, will join forces under the MOFA banner, forming a new production company spanning film, television and commercials. The new venture will produce bold, independent dramas and compelling documentaries and factual formats. Together, were not just building a production company, said Gal Greenspan. Were creating a platform where powerful ideas can scale whether its a global co-production, a brand-backed docuseries, or a cinematic TV campaign. The industry is ready for a model like this. This is the right time to think differently about how brands engage with content, said Llew Griffiths. Were seeing a shift where brands are not just sponsors, but partners in storytelling. Our combined capabilities uniquely position us to lead that space. Over four short years, MOFA has established itself as a leader in high-end commercial production, known for its roster of elite directors, creativity and trusted relationships with major brands and agencies. Co-founders Llew Griffiths and Nick Kelly bring a proven ability to execute work thats both creatively bold, and commercially successful. Greenspan brings decades of global experience in the film and TV industry, having produced over 30 celebrated films, series, and documentaries that have screened at Cannes, TIFF, Tribeca, Berlinale and Sundance. He also brings a track record of producing across borders with partners in Brazil, Canada, Germany, France, and beyond. Through SSG, Greenspan has overseen the production of 12 projects since its setup, quickly establishing itself as bold new voice in the local film and TV landscape. The reimagined MOFA will be helmed by Gal Greenspan and Llew Griffiths as Co-Managing Directors with Greenspan steering long-form projects and Griffiths leading commercial and branded initiatives. Nick Kelly will serve as Creative Director whilst continuing in his pursuits as one of the regions top commercial directors. Bringing their collective expertise under the one roof, Greenspan, Griffiths and Kelly are positioning MOFA to unlock new opportunities for brands and advertisers to connect with audiences through meaningful storytelling. The partnership builds on SSG and Greenspans track record in delivering impactful, brand-supported storytelling. Recent highlights include The Endangered Generation a feature documentary narrated by Laura Dern, which premiered at MIFF and was acquired by SBS and multiple international broadcasters and Second to None, a Eurosport co-production that followed the Womens Tour de France. The series was picked up by Max and Discovery+, and reached over 5 million viewers during the event. The partnership expands MOFAs local footprint, with offices now in NSW, Victoria, and WA. MOFA has a strong pipeline of projects already in production. These include The Poster Boys a documentary on viral 2000s fitness icon Zyzz, directed by Selina Miles and produced locally for Stan; Bluebottle the second feature from directing duo Jack Clark & Jim Weir, following their SXSW debut Birdeater, backed by Screen Australia and Screen NSW, with Joel Edgerton attached as Executive Producer. Meanwhile, in Tasmania, MOFA director Bill Bleakley is preparing to shoot his debut feature with support from Screen Tasmania. These projects will be spearheaded by the talented production team operating under Greenspan, alongside MOFAs commercial and branded producers. This exciting slate reflects MOFAs bold vision to back fresh voices and create truly original Australian films. Shoaibur Rahman, TwoCircles.net New Delhi: Protest at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) against a recently announced fee hike, the long-standing suspension of students union elections and calls for administrative accountability have entered their sixth day, with students boycotting classes and staging sit-ins at the Bab-e-Syed gate (the iconic entrance of the varsity). Support TwoCircles The fee structure for different courses has witnessed a sharp revision. Students say the hike ranges from 25% to over 60% across various programmes. Many claim they first learned of the revised fees only while trying to pay through the universitys online portal, with no prior notice or formal communication from the administration. Syed Kaif, a second-year LL.M student, said, The administration did not issue any official notification about the hike. The B.A. LL.B. course fee, for example, has gone up from Rs 14,975 to Rs 18,700 this year. This decision was taken by the Academic Council without student representation. The university has defended the hike, stating it was approved in an Academic Council meeting held on June 4. According to a press release, the revision is aimed at improving essential services such as health care, hostels and campus infrastructure. It claims the average increase for continuing students is between 15% and 20%. However, fee receipts accessed by students and shared with the media show a higher range of increases. In some cases, course fees have risen by as much as 61%. Students claim the increase is much steeper than what the administration has stated. When TwoCircles.net checked the students claims, we found that the fee has been hiked upto 61 percent. Kaif described the universitys justification as irrational and illogical. Referring to AMUs 2024 final audit report, he highlighted that the institution received Rs 1,565.48 crore from the University Grants Commission (UGC) in 2023-24, along with an internal income of Rs 35.61 crore and an opening balance of Rs 118.92 crore. The university had a budget of over Rs 1,720 crore last year. Around Rs 167 crore of that was unutilised. So why increase the burden on students? he asked. Kaif, who has also filed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking the restoration of students union elections in AMU, warned that students would approach the courts if the university did not roll back the hike. Almost 80 percent students of AMU come from economically backward communities. A steep fee hike will discourage their enrollment in higher education. The AMU was founded to provide affordable education for minorities and marginalised sections. This move is against the very dream of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, another student said, on the condition of anonymity. The All India Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has appealed to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to intervene. Many students from underprivileged backgrounds will be forced to drop out. For instance, the Bachelor of Library Science fee has gone from Rs 16,000 to over Rs 22,000, an increase of nearly 40%, said the associations national convenor Nasir Khuehami The group also flagged broader concerns, including alleged poor hostel conditions, inadequate sanitation and the absence of student representation. The AMU Students Union has not held elections since 2018, a gap that protestors argue undermines institutional accountability. Former AMU Students Union Vice President Hamza Sufiyan said student voices have been excluded from key decision-making bodies. There used to be student representatives in the Academic Council. Since 2019, that space no longer exists. Major policy decisions are now being taken without student input, he alleged. He also accused the administration of trying to turn AMU, built on waqf land, into a corporate model and urged it to withdraw what he called an anti-people decision. Education should neither be an opportunity, nor a burden, he asserted. The protests escalated following an incident where female students claimed they were harassed by the proctorial team and police during a peaceful demonstration. The students are also calling for the resignation of the proctorial team, citing their failure to ensure student safety and dignity. We will continue our sit-in until they step down. We are resolute in our protest. The proctorial team must be held accountable for failing to protect us. Until they resign, we will not move forward with discussions on our other demands, said a woman student of the university, on the condition of anonymity. Support has come from across campuses and political circles. Mohd. Abu Hamza, AMU alumnus and former vice president of Maulana Azad National Urdu University Students Union, said, This move targets students from working-class backgrounds. The AMU was established to provide accessible education, not create new barriers. Nitish Kumar, president of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union (JNUSU), also expressed his support and joined the peaceful protest at campus. A university should be a space for dialogue, not repression, he said, adding that AMU is not only an institution, but a thought, a movement and a hope. Political leaders have also weighed in. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi wrote on X (formerly Twitter), In complete solidarity with the students of AMU. The university must rollback its fee hike. Many of AMUs students come from backward regions and poor families. A 35%-40% increase is unbearable. Former External Affairs Minister and senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid called the developments deeply distressing, urging the AMU to uphold its tradition of affordable education. Opposition MPs have also written to Vice-Chancellor Professor Naima Khatoon, raising concerns about reports of police presence and alleged crackdowns on students during Friday prayers at the protest site. As the academic session continues, students remain firm in their demands: a rollback of the fee hike, restoration of students union elections and action against those responsible for the reported mishandling of peaceful protests. The donation supports scholarships and honors the Houston attorneys late fathers legacy of service. Cheryl Irvin, and the late Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Irvin Sr. ORANGEBURG, S.C. The Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College at South Carolina State University has received a $20,000 gift from attorney Cheryl Irvin, a distinguished alumna and prominent criminal defense and personal injury attorney based in Houston. The donation is designated for student scholarships and reflects Irvins personal commitment to higher education and her familys legacy at SC State. Supporting education especially at institutions that molded me is one of the greatest privileges I have, Irvin said. My father attended SC State, and from the time I was born, it was understood that I would follow in his footsteps. I never considered going anywhere else. This gift is in honor of him, of my family, and of every student who dares to dream bigger. Irvin is the founding partner of The Irvin Law Firm PLLC in Houston, Texas, and a graduate of SC State. Her father, the late Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Irvin Sr., earned both his bachelors and masters degrees from South Carolina State College. He served for 54 years as an educator, principal, pastor and civil rights advocate in South Carolina and Georgia, and he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Morris College. He died in 2016 at the age of 87. University officials say Irvins donation comes at a pivotal time in the Honors Colleges growth, supporting high-achieving students who demonstrate financial need. The scholarships will help students access opportunities such as study abroad, undergraduate research, civic engagement and leadership development. This generous gift will open doors for some of our most talented and deserving students, said Dr. William H. Whitaker Jr., dean of the Honors College. We are deeply grateful to Attorney Irvin for investing in the future of SC State scholars and helping us remove financial barriers to academic success. Her gift affirms that our alumni believe in the power of the Honors College and its mission to cultivate the next generation of visionary thinkers and leaders. Dr. Frederick M.G. Evans, provost and vice president for academic affairs, noted the long-term impact of such gifts. This kind of alumni generosity is a reflection of the transformative power of education at SC State, Evans said. Attorney Irvins support helps ensure that our Honors students can fully engage in rigorous, life-changing academic opportunities without the burden of financial insecurity. Dr. Windy Stephenson, executive director of the Honors College, added that the gift reinforces the colleges core values Attorney Irvins donation is more than a gift it is a statement of belief in our students, our mission and our collective future, Stephenson said. It affirms our efforts to build a vibrant honors culture rooted in academic rigor, social impact and student empowerment. The Honors College will formally recognize Irvins contribution in its annual report and major events. She will also be welcomed as a distinguished member of the Honors Colleges Circle of Friends donor society. To learn more about the Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College, visit www.scsu.edu/honors-college.php. To learn more about giving to SC State, visit www.scsu.edu/give. For more information about SC States Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College and future opportunities, contact Dr. William Whitaker, dean, at wwhitak3@scsu.edu or 803-533-3710. August 14, 2025: In early February 2025, Thai soldiers entered Cambodia and ordered Cambodian tourists to stop singing the Cambodian national anthem at the Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. In late May, Cambodian and Thai soldiers briefly exchanged fire between each other, resulting in the death of one Cambodian soldier. Attempts to halt the fighting failed. Continued tensions led to the closing of border checkpoints. Talks between the Thai and officers took place on 29 May. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet responded to the 28 May incident by seeking a ruling from the International Court of Justice/ICJ, saying that he did not want to see a conflict with Thailand. Phumtham Wechayachai, the Thai prime minister, said that neither side wanted to escalate the conflict and that it had been resolved. Fourteen years ago there was fighting on the Cambodian border that continued over the weekend. The action has not been intense, mostly firing assault rifles at each other. Local villagers heard machine-guns and artillery or mortars. There were twenty or so casualties. All this was a sharp break from recent peace efforts. Three months ago, after two years of armed stalemate, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to reopen border crossings at the site of the ancient Preah Vihear Hindu temple on the border. The two countries have long argued over who owns how much of the ancient site. In 1962, an international court declared the temple Cambodian, but Thailand continued to claim adjacent areas that the Cambodians insist are part of the temple complex. Each side had about 3,000 troops near the temple site, and there have been a few shooting incidents since 2008, but nothing serious. The two countries have been negotiating the withdrawal of soldiers. The most recent fighting damaged portions of the temple, which Cambodians occupied and caused over 20,000 local civilians to flee the area. This dispute is but one of many similar ones. The basic problem is that the current 730 kilometer long border was defined in 1907 by the placement of only 73 border markers. This has left the exact location of the border open to interpretation. Occasionally these interpretations clash, as is happening now. Neither side wants a full scale war, even though Thailand has a larger and better equipped military. In the last few years, Cambodia doubled its annual military budget to $500 million. Thailand spends more than six times that, and has done so for decades. Thailand has 300,000 troops, Cambodia only 100,000. But Thailand has distractions, as in Moslem terrorists in the south, rebellious populists in the north, and unrest across the northwest border with Burma. The Preah Vihear temple is 340 kilometers east of the capital. The government believes that a major war with Cambodia would soon become unpopular, and make the red shirts more powerful and likely to take over. The Red shirt populists say they have proof that the army planned, for years, the violent crackdown in 2010. This elicited surprise among military and police planners, who take for granted that plans would be drawn up for all contingencies you can imagine. The attack on the red shirts last year was similar to the 1989 Chinese response to the massive demonstrations in Tiananmen Square. The government asked the army to be more flexible, and effective, in the south. Senior officials believe that the Islamic radicals and Moslem gangsters are being more innovative in changing their tactics. So the generals are being urged to be more innovative and quicker to adapt. The military is asked, not ordered, because in Thailand, the generals are very much a political power, and not to be pushed around. The army believes its tactics are working, and that the Islamic terror groups are being slowly crushed. Royalist yellow shirts continue to occupy Ratchadamneng Road. a historic district in the capital to pressure the government to be more aggressive against Cambodia. Yellow shirts are also threatening to occupy key locations in the capital as well. Earlier in the year Thai and Cambodian troops agreed to a ceasefire at the Preah Vihear temple. It lasted less than 24 hours. Elsewhere in the area three policemen were killed and five Buddhists were shot dead, apparently by Islamic terrorists seeking to drive all non-Moslem infidels out of the area. The discussion spotlighted joint efforts to support innovation, implement Resolution 68 on private economic development, and explore transformative strategies to unlock the sectors full potential. The meeting also featured representatives from National Innovation Centre (NIC), as well as leaders from key units under the Ministry of Finance, including the Department of Private Enterprise and Collective Economy Development and the SME Development Fund. During the session on August 13 in Hanoi, Tam and the BCG delegation reviewed the progress of joint initiatives between BCG and the Vietnamese government, with a particular focus on collaborative efforts involving the Ministry of Finance. Deputy Ministry of Finance Nguyen Duc Tam giving remarks at the meeting The parties also exchanged views on BCGs latest perspectives regarding innovation, private sector development, and areas of potential cooperation. Deputy Minister Tam expressed his appreciation to BCG for its support in policy formulation and its assistance to the NIC in its advisory role to the government, contributing to NICs current position and influence. He highly commended BCGs close collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and Investment in the past and with the Ministry of Finance (MoF) more recently, acknowledging BCGs practical recommendations in institutional and policy development, as well as its suggestions on sectors where Vietnam holds comparative advantages. These inputs have helped the MoF in fostering the NIC and connecting with key partners in science, technology, and innovation, said Tam. He noted that the BCG and NIC have, through various international projects, actively engaged in discussions and furthered efforts to support innovation and startup activities, yielding promising outcomes. Touching on private sector development, Tam emphasised that the Politburo has recently issued several groundbreaking resolutions, including Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on promoting private sector development, which outlines transformative and substantive policies. To effectively implement Resolution 68, it is crucial to have in place a clear and enabling institutional framework to mobilise the collective strength and financial resources of the entire society and the private sector, he stated. Tam also thanked BCG for its insights and recommendations on fostering the private sector and expressed the MoFs desire to receive further strategic policy advice, technical support, and consulting expertise help concretise key solutions under Resolution 68. The meeting overview In response, Arnaud Ginolin, managing director and partner of BCG Vietnam, expressed his appreciation for the candid and constructive exchange with Deputy Minister Tam on the partnership between BCG and NIC, and on BCGs proposals to advance private sector growth in Vietnam. Resolution 68 represents a pivotal policy milestone that can reshape the business environment for private enterprises in Vietnam. International experience shows that bold, transformative programmes, such as establishing national champion enterprises and supporting SMEs and startups, are essential, Ginolin said. The BCG executive recommended that Vietnam closely monitor the implementation of Resolution 68, align impactful programmes with the action plan, and establish a digital monitoring system with clearly defined key performance indicators to track progress. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to continued collaboration, frequent engagement, and translating their discussions into tangible initiatives aimed at advancing private sector development and furthering the role of NIC in the near future. Boston Consulting Group is a top global consultancy that provides strategic and transformational solutions to organisations and governments worldwide. Through various international projects, NIC and BCG have built a strong partnership, working together on startup and innovation activities that are already showing positive results. Private sector is driving force for advances across economy Thanks to open-door policies crafted from the 1980s and beyond, rapid development of legal infrastructure, recognition of the value of foreign direct investment, and the importance of a strong private sector, Vietnam has made tremendous progress to a point where, this year, Vietnams average per capita income should reach $5,000, total foreign trade could be well over $850 billion, and there is a poverty rate below 5 per cent. Resolution effectiveness on private pharma in Vietnam hinges on implementation Within the broader economic vision for Vietnams private sector, the pharmaceutical industry, an inherently sensitive and vital realm directly tied to public health and medical security, is undergoing significant transformation to tap into future opportunities. The two sides signed an MoU on August 12 during the VietnamKorea Economic Forum in Seoul, according to The Korea Times. Dunamu said the partnership will combine its digital asset expertise with MBs local banking network to create a secure and accessible platform for Vietnamese investors. According to the agreement, Dunamu will act as a key strategic partner to Military Bank to facilitate the establishment of a digital asset exchange in Vietnam, the formulation of legal frameworks, and the development of investor protection measures related to digital assets. Dunamu also has a plan to share Upbit's advanced technology. Oh Kyung-seok, CEO of Dunamu, highlighted Vietnam's ample potential with 20 million digital asset holders, annual trading volume exceeding $800 billion and its top-five global ranking in blockchain capital inflows. "Combining such potential with Upbits proven model will allow us to go beyond building an exchange to designing the entire digital finance infrastructure based on trust," he said. The CEO referred to Upbit as "not just a tech provider" but rather "a comprehensive platform that encompasses planning, operations, compliance and asset management." "Well fully support Vietnam in establishing a secure digital finance ecosystem grounded in reliable technology," he added. Luu Trung Thai, chairman of Military Bank, said, "Vietnam and South Korea, along with Military Bank and Upbit, will be strong collaborative partners in driving the growth and development of Vietnams digital financial market." Upbit is the worlds third-largest crypto exchange and South Koreas leading digital asset exchange. It is ranked among the top three globally in trading volume, handling more than $1.1 trillion in trades and managing assets of over $11 billion. South Koreas top crypto exchange plans Vietnam entry South Koreas largest digital asset trading platform Upbit, operated by Dunamu Inc., is setting its sights on the Vietnamese market, signalling growing interest from global players in the countrys emerging digital economy. Crypto transaction regulations more sophisticated than ever Under the new Law on Digital Technology Industry, to come into effect in 2026, digital assets are officially recognised, encompassing both virtual assets and cryptoassets, while excluding securities, digital fiat currencies, and other financial instruments. NEU and Adelaide University enhance sustainability collaboration Held on August 13, the event brought together representatives from universities, government agencies, and enterprises to promote joint initiatives and practical applications supporting Vietnams shift to a low-carbon economy. Part of a visit by Adelaide Universitys senior leadership delegation to Vietnam, the seminar built on the success of last years offering and highlighted the role of academia, policymakers, and businesses in developing cross-sector solutions to help Vietnam achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2050. The seminar introduced the latest research results and practical experiences from the two universities, which focus on climate-proofing futures building adaptation and energy resilience; training in environmental technology and sustainable development; and the challenges and opportunities of climate change for sustainable futures in Vietnam. One of the highlights was a panel discussion on practical initiatives and collaboration opportunities in Vietnam. These representations aimed to create a solid foundation for joint projects for national and regional sustainable development. The 2025 course emphasises the importance of tripartite co-creation in addressing cross-sectoral challenges, with in-depth discussions on energy transition and a green education. Vietnam and Australia are entering a decisive phase of their green transition, aiming for net-zero emissions. This is not only a national challenge but also a shared challenge between Vietnam and Australia, as both countries are experiencing the significant impacts of climate change and are striving to build sustainable, resilient economies. It is therefore crucial for NEU and Adelaide University to work closely together in conducting interdisciplinary research, sharing knowledge, and connecting stakeholders from both nations' academia, policymakers, and businesses to co-develop innovative solutions with real-world impacts, said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thanh Hieu, vice president of NEU. For many years, NEU has been a pioneer in Vietnam in offering training courses in environmental management, climate change, and urban studies. Currently, the two parties are developing a Bachelor's programme in environmental technology and sustainable development, with support and collaboration from international partners, including Adelaide University. This is a strategic step to train high-quality human resources who are ready to meet the urgent demands of the green transition and sustainable development, he said. According to Adelaide University, this university and NEU have several complementary strengths, which can take advantage of each other. For example, Adelaide University has a sustainable green transition signature research theme, multidisciplinary research in energy, biodiversity, and climate resilience, real innovation hubs for place-based solutions (VR, AR, mixed reality/3D and 2D content/etc), advanced capabilities in green finance, law, and entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, NEU is an expert in economic policy and environmental governance, and has strong links to government and industry for policy translation. Besides that, it focuses on training future leaders in sustainability and economics, and has emerging research in climate finance, urban sustainability, and low-carbon governance. The Adelaide University and NEU, on August 13, formalised a partnership that will see our institutions collaborate across research and academic endeavours, with a joint vision to advance sustainable futures in the Asia-Pacific region. This partnership is underpinned by wider Australian government initiatives, including the national energy workforce strategy, which aims to cultivate the skills and capabilities required for the global transition to net zero, said Prof. David Lloyd, co-vice chancellor of Adelaide University. Vietnam is Adelaide Universitys third largest international cohort for commencing students and third largest for total enrolled international award students. Our new institution benefits from the merged metrics of the esteemed University of Adelaide and the enterprising University of South Australia, Lloyd said. Real estate M&A: from nascent recovery to sustainable growth After a period of relative dormancy, Vietnams real estate dealmaking market is demonstrating a significant recovery in 2025. Green industrial parks offer solution to ESG challenges for next-generation businesses As environmental standards increasingly become a prerequisite for participation in global supply chains, the shift towards sustainable production models has become a matter of survival. High-tech growth drives investment surge in Hung Yen Hung Yen attracted over $840 million in investment in seven months, driven by industrial upgrades, policy reforms, and growing investor confidence in the provinces development prospects. The new plant i s part of a strategic initiative to enhance global bidding capabilities through an advanced local production system. It will occupy approximately 56,200 square metres (604,931 ft) within Long Thanh Industrial Zone in Dong Nai, southern Vietnam, adjacent to Taihan Vinas existing plant. Construction is scheduled to commence in the first half of 2026, with operations to begin in 2027. Upon completion, Taihan Vina will stand as Vietnams sole manufacturer of 400kV-class EHV cables. Through this investment, Taihan Vina aims to meet rapidly increasing domestic demand for EHV cables in Vietnam, where electricity demand is projected to grow by 10-12 per cent annually through 2030, and to accelerate entry into major overseas markets, including Europe, the Americas, and Oceania. Continuous capacity expansion and technological innovation will establish the plant as a second global production hub, complementing Taihans flagship Dangjin Cable Plant in Korea. A Taihan spokesperson stated, Vietnams strong industrial environment, infrastructure, and strategic geographic location provide a solid foundation for Taihan Vina to become a leading global supplier in the EHV cable sector. With this investment, Taihan Vina will help modernise Vietnams power grid and strengthen its presence from Asia to the world. Established in 2005 and headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, Taihan Cable Vina is a comprehensive wire and cable manufacturer with approximately 300 employees. Its product portfolio includes high-, medium-, and low-voltage power cables, as well as overhead conductors. In 2024, the company recorded sales of KRW140.3 billion ($101.23 million), an on-year increase of about 20 per cent, driven by ongoing facility expansion and technology investments. CADIVI launches new line of eco-friendly cables Vietnams leading brand in the electrical wire and cable market, Vietnam Electric Cable Corporation (CADIVI), has officially introduced a new line of eco-friendly electrical wires, using lead-free (LF) insulation and low smoke halogen free (LSHF) materials. According to Laos Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the countrys exports reached almost $5.1 billion in the first half of 2025, up more than 3 per cent on-year, with agricultural products driving much of the growth. Recognising its role as a crucial link in the regional supply chain, THILOGI is expanding transport routes in key areas to deliver end-to-end logistics services for Lao exporters. By combining road, sea, and port operations, the company aims to streamline the movement of goods from production hubs in Laos to seaports and onward to overseas buyers, cutting transit times and costs while enhancing the competitiveness of Lao products in international markets. THILOGI strengthened its regional presence in July with the launch of THILOGI Laos Co., Ltd. in Attapeu province. The new subsidiary covers more than 10,000 square metres of warehouse space and operates a fleet of specialised trucks and semi-trailers. It provides large-scale domestic trucking and international multimodal transport, offering end-to-end logistics services such as packing, warehousing, customs clearance, quarantine procedures, transit cargo handling, and global forwarding. This expansion marks a strategic step in tapping deeper into cargo flows from the 'Land of a Million Elephants', enabling more efficient vehicle deployment, enhancing counter-trade capacity, and improving operational performance on cross-border routes. Bui Tran Nhan Nghiem, sales deputy director for Laos Region, said, "THILOGI is operating fixed routes from Attapeu, Sekong, Salavan, and Pakse to our Chu Lai International Port in Vietnam where cargos are exported to other Asian markets. In the first half of 2025, the port received over 700,000 tonnes of bulk cargo and over 1,000 containers transit from Laos." Major highways in Vietnam such as 14D, 14E, and 14B, along with road networks in central Vietnam, southern Laos, and northern Cambodia are currently undergoing significant upgrades. Such infrastructure improvement, combined with THILOGIs significant investment, offers importers and exporters in Laos optimal and effective logistics solutions. In addition to expanding its cross-border transport network, THILOGI is also focusing on developing Chu Lai International Port the core hub in its service chain of trucking-seaport-shipping. THILOGI has invested in upgrading berths, maritime channels, expanding warehouse facilities, and equipping them with modern handling equipment. It is also strengthening cooperation with global shipping lines to launch more direct maritime routes from Chu Lai to major ports in China, South Korea, Japan, India, as well as connections to the US and Europe. Chu Lai International Port therefore serves as a strategic export gateway for Laos, enabling businesses to access global markets more conveniently, quickly, and cost-effectively. Goods from Laos can reach the port via Nam Giang or Bo Y border gates in just one day. So, combined with THILOGIs full-package logistics services, this significantly reduces logistics costs, shortens delivery times, and enhances competitiveness for businesses. With comprehensive investments in both infrastructure and services, THILOGI is establishing an efficient, sustainable logistics corridor, thereby strengthening cooperation, boosting trade, attracting investment, and fostering economic growth for both Vietnam and Laos. International Cargo Logistics opens office in Ho Chi Minh City International Cargo Logistics Ltd (ICL), announced on September 9 that it has opened a new office in Ho Chi Minh City as a continuation of its global growth plan. Singapore's SATS to build cargo terminal at Long Thanh International Airport Singapore-based SATS Ltd., one of the worlds largest providers of air cargo handling services, and Vietnam Airlines JSC (VNA) signed an MoU on March 13 to build and operate an air cargo terminal at the new Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam. The latest such tariff regime has added challenges for Vietnams export sectors, but many firms are using the moment to restructure supply chains, strengthen environmental, social, and governance compliance, and expand into untapped global markets. By reassessing strategies and broadening their reach beyond traditional partners, exporters aim to build greater resilience and competitiveness. Speaking to VIR, Nguyen Tran Thien Thanh, director of Thien Thanh Binh Trading and Manufacturing in Ho Chi Minh City, said the company has begun reviewing its supply chain, increasing localisation, and preparing thoroughly to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. "If the US becomes temporarily less favourable, we will shift our focus to nurturing relationships with customers in the EU, Japan, and Taiwan markets where we already have an established presence. Were diversifying products, improving quality, and tailoring incentive policies to suit each market," Thanh said. She noted that ESG compliance is now a mandatory requirement for entering major markets and a growing driver of supply chain transparency, helping to strengthen the reputation of Vietnamese brands. Export businesses are being encouraged to diversify their markets In addition to gaining more control over the supply chain, businesses are also actively realigning their market strategies. This proactive and adaptive mindset is also being embraced by several major players, notably Hanfimex one of Vietnams leading exporters of cashews, pepper, and coffee. Phung Van Sam, chairman of Hanfimex Vietnam Group, told VIR that recognising the tax disadvantages of exporting to the US compared with competitors from Brazil, Indonesia, Cambodia, and several African countries had prompted the company to chart a new course. Were shifting towards markets with logistical and financial advantages, such as those in Asia, where shipping is faster, payment cycles are shorter, and capital turnover is more efficient, Sam said. The EU and certain African nations are also emerging as key expansion targets. Rather than competing solely on low pricing, Hanfimex has opted for a strategy focused on consistent quality, optimising supply chain efficiency, and enhancing trade promotion efforts tailored to specific market characteristics. In contrast to the recent rush into the US market, Thien Minh Wood Company has steadily maintained its foothold in the EU a strategy now delivering clear benefits. Tran Lam Son, vice chairman of Thien Minh, said the companys early investment in the EU market has helped cushion the impact of recent US policy changes. EU-bound orders currently make up 6070 per cent of our total export volume, Son noted, adding that investing in design and improving product quality to meet EU standards has built long-term trust and opened opportunities for future market share growth. Beyond the efforts of individual businesses, trade promotion agencies are also adapting to create a more sustainable foundation for export activities. At a roundtable in Ho Chi Minh City on August 1, Tran Phu Lu, director of the citys Trade and Investment Promotion Centre, revealed a digital trade promotion ecosystem is being rolled out to expand outreach into new regions such as the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Latin America, thereby reducing reliance on traditional markets. We aim to help businesses enter target markets through international trade fairs, direct links with distributors and importers, and by accelerating digital transformation in trade promotion to create more effective engagement channels, Lu said Meanwhile, Do Ngoc Hung, Vietnams commercial counsellor in the US, said that despite the new tariffs, the country remains a highly attractive link in the global supply chain. Major corporations like Walmart, Amazon, and Costco have reaffirmed Vietnams role as a vital supply chain hub and are actively expanding their presence here. Their priorities go beyond price they want sustainability, consistent supply capacity, and source traceability, Hung noted. He stressed that to seize this opportunity, Vietnamese businesses should join industry-specific international trade fairs, automate production, strengthen ESG compliance, and invest in professional brand-building. While the market is challenging, this is a pivotal moment for businesses to restructure, enhance their position, and build resilient, sustainable brands, Hung added. Vietnamese businesses looking for investment and cooperation in the US The Ministry of Finance (MoF) and more than 100 Vietnamese enterprises participated in the SelectUSA Investment Summit 2025 in the United States from May 11-14. Five strategic priorities to help businesses strengthen operational resilience Vietnamese firms must shift from optimism to action, with a UOB study outlining five strategic priorities to boost resilience amid global uncertainty and fragmented economic dynamics. WASHINGTON Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says he's proud to be part of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, an archconservative network of Christian congregations. Hegseth recently made headlines when he shared a CNN video on social media about CREC, showing its pastors arguing women should not have the right to vote. Pastor Doug Wilson, a CREC co-founder, leads Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, the network's flagship location. Jovial and media-friendly, Wilson is no stranger to stirring controversy with his church's hard-line theology and its embrace of patriarchy and Christian nationalism. Wilson told The Associated Press he was grateful Hegseth shared the video. He noted Hegseth's post was labeled with Christ Church's motto: "All of Christ for All of Life." "He was, in effect, reposting it and saying, 'Amen,' at some level," Wilson said. Hegseth, among President Donald Trump's most controversial Cabinet picks, attends Pilgrim Hill Reformed Fellowship, a CREC member church in a suburb outside Nashville, Tennessee. His pastor, Brooks Potteiger, prayed at a service Hegseth hosted at the Pentagon. CREC recently opened a new outpost in the nation's capital, Christ Church DC, with Hegseth attending its first Sunday service. Pentagon chief spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed Hegseth's CREC affiliation. Here are other things to know about the church network: What does Wilson's church say about women? Wilson's church and wider denomination practice complementarianism, the patriarchal idea that men and women have different God-given roles. Women within CREC churches cannot hold church leadership positions, and married women are to submit to their husbands. Wilson told the AP he believes the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote "was a bad idea." Still, he said his wife and daughters vote. He would prefer the United States follow his church's example, which allows heads of households to vote in church elections. Unmarried women qualify as voting members in his church. "Ordinarily, the vote is cast by the head of the household, the husband and father, because we're patriarchal and not egalitarian," Wilson said. He added that repealing the 19th Amendment is not high on his list of priorities. Hegseth's views on women have been in the spotlight, especially after he faced sexual assault allegations, for which no charges were filed. Before his nomination to lead the Defense Department, Hegseth had questioned women serving in combat roles in the military. Wilson, a Navy veteran who served on submarines, also questions women serving in some military roles. "I think we ought to find out the name of the person who suggested that we put women on those submarines and have that man committed," Wilson said. "It's like having a playpen that you put 50 cats in and then drop catnip in the middle of it. Whatever happens is going to be ugly. And if you think it's going to advance the cause of women and make sailors start treating women less like objects, then you haven't been around the block very many times." What is the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches? Founded in 1998, CREC is a network of more than 130 churches around the world. CREC ascribes to a strict version of Reformed theology rooted in the tradition of 16th-century Protestant reformer John Calvin that puts a heavy emphasis on an all-powerful God who has dominion over all of society. Wilson and CREC are also strongly influenced by a 20th-century Reformed movement called Christian Reconstructionism, according to Julie Ingersoll, a religion professor at the University of North Florida who wrote about it in her 2015 book "Building God's Kingdom." She sees that theology reflected in the Wilson slogan Hegseth repeated on social media. "When he says, 'All of life,' he's referencing the idea that it's the job of Christians to exercise dominion over the whole world," Ingersoll said. Since the 1970s, Wilson's ministry and influence have grown to include the Association of Christian Classical Schools and New Saint Andrew's College in Moscow, Idaho. The ministry has a robust media presence, including Canon Press, publisher of books like "The Case for Christian Nationalism" and "It's Good to Be a Man: A Handbook for Godly Masculinity." What is the connection to Christian nationalism? Wilson wants the United States to be a Christian nation, and he does not mind being called a Christian nationalist. "I am more than happy to work with that label because it's a better label than what I usually get called," Wilson said. "If I get called a white nationalist or a theo-fascist or a racist bigot, misogynist thug, I can't work with them except to deny them," he said. "I'm a Christian, and I'm a patriot who loves my country. How do I combine those two things? How do they work together?" U.S. Christian nationalism is a fusion of American and Christian identity, principles and symbols that typically seeks a privileged place for Christian people and ideas. Wilson contends that early America was Christian, a notion historians dispute. "If we succeed, this will be Christian America 2.0," Wilson wrote in 2022. American Christian nationalism involves overlapping movements. Among them are evangelicals who view Trump, a Republican, as a champion, some of whom are influenced by Christian Reconstructionist ideas; a charismatic movement that sees politics as part of a larger spiritual war; and a Catholic postliberal movement envisioning a muscular government promoting traditional morality. CREC now has a closer relationship to the upper echelons of government. This has renewed scrutiny of Wilson's other controversial views, including his downplaying of the horrors of Southern slavery in the U.S. But it's also given Wilson a bigger stage. Hegseth and Wilson have spoken approvingly of each other. Wilson said they have only met in person once, when they talked informally after Wilson preached at Hegseth's home church in Tennessee this year. Wilson said CREC's new Washington church began as a way to serve church members who relocated to work in the Trump administration. "This is the first time we've had connections with as many people in national government as we do now," Wilson said. "But this is not an ecclesiastical lobbying effort where we're trying to meet important people. We're trying to give some of these people an opportunity to meet with God." Patricia Pat Nash, a former Baraboo News Republic opinion writer who published hundreds of columns for the newspaper and other Lee Enterprises properties in south central Wisconsin, has died. Nash, 84, died Friday from complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, at her daughters home in Duluth, Minnesota. Nash wrote Baraboo News Republic columns for more than a decade, starting in 2012. She wrote her last column in July 2023 after moving with her daughter, Heather Mantsch, to the Minnesota city. She was an amazing, strong woman and an incredible mom, said Amber Lampron, Nashs daughter. Along with writing, Nash loved farming and the animals involved, as well as the outdoors. After growing up in Ohio and attending Kent State University, she and her first husband, Daniel Mantsch, owned farms near Wirt and Sebeka in Minnesota. They sold the Sebeka farm and moved to Fines Creek, North Carolina, to manage dairy operations on a farm there. She and Mantsch also lived in Germany during Mantschs U.S. Army service prior to returning to the United States. She had always dreamt of having a farm, Lampron said. She showed us how to appreciate every animal that we encountered. I even remember her finding a baby mouse in our house and she fed it milk with a toothpick. She tried to save it. Just bugs and mice and every animal, she loved every single one. Nash also owned a dog, Millie, whom she took to a friends farm near Baraboo during the 2010s. She swam alongside dolphins once near Jekyll Island, Georgia, and enjoyed watching Circus World elephants bathe during the summer, Lampron added. An on-and-off education employee, Nash worked as a fourth-grade teacher in Ohio in 1963 and 1964, worked as a special education aide in Baraboo in the 1980s and in Baraboo and Portage from 2012 to 2020. She primarily worked with students with vision impairments, according to her son, Scott Mantsch. Nashs Baraboo journey began in 1981 and her first stint in the Sauk County seat lasted seven years. She later divorced Mantsch, the father of her three children. She lived in New York State, near Sauk City, and in Prince Edward Island in Canada before returning to Baraboo from 2005 to 2023. After surviving a stroke, she moved to Duluth. Nash married her second husband, Terence Nash, in 2003, and was married to him until his 2006 death, owning a farm with him in Montague, Prince Edward Island, in the early 2000s. Nashs columns mostly covered political and societal issues from a progressive, liberal perspective, often criticizing Republican officials and policies while praising those of Democrats, as well as resistance efforts against conservative governance. She started by writing letters to the editor in 2011 before beginning her own column in 2012 after positive feedback to her letters, Lampron said, adding that prior to her newspaper columns, Nash wrote childrens stories and magazine publications. Topics that Nash covered included Act 10, the polarizing budget bill that former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker and the GOP-led state Legislature passed in 2011, overuse of cell phones, LGBTQ+ community rights and respect, environmental protections and criticism of President Donald Trump, among many others. She began writing columns and became more politically engaged after Act 10 was passed, according to Lampron. Scott Mantsch added that his mother was motivated by collective bargaining rights being stripped from people she knew and worked with in education by the bill. She was always very politically aware and talked to us about it, Lampron said, adding that the events after Walkers election lit the fire for her mother, particularly his budget policies and ones that she viewed as environmentally detrimental. He also said his mother attended protests against Act 10 in Madison in early 2011. Nash was an advocate for marginalized groups and people with disabilities, along with the LGBTQ+ community, Heather Mantsch said. Scott Frostman, a conservative columnist for the paper, expressed condolences to Nashs family and said that he and Nash had a tacit agreement to not attack each other. Frostman and Nash wrote what he called adversarial columns in the Baraboo News Republic and neighboring publications for roughly five years. I respected her well-written thoughts, and we exchanged periodic emails of support and camaraderie, Frostman said. We often disagreed politically, but thats the inherent nature of our coveted tenets of free speech and press. Nash was willing to talk with her critics, as well as her supporters, and often found common ground with people who disagreed with her politically, Lampron said. Pat was a dear friend and supportive advocate for kiddos in Baraboo, Wisconsin District 40 Rep. Karen DeSanto, D-Baraboo, said. She was also a fierce protector of democracy and lent her talent for writing to many of us. Life-saving CPR skills to feature in driving exam Learner drivers will soon face questions on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use defibrillators in the UK driving theory test. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency says the change will be introduced to car and motorcycle theory tests in early 2026, as part of a partnership with national programmes including Save a Life Cymru, Save a Life Scotland, Save a Life Northern Ireland and Resuscitation Council UK. DVSA says it wants to encourage all road users to learn basic CPR and defibrillator skills, pointing out that drivers are often first on the scene when someone suffers a cardiac arrest. Around 2.4 million people take the theory test each year, and DVSA says adding CPR content to official learning materials will mean more drivers are equipped to act in an emergency. In the UK, more than 40,000 people suffer an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, with fewer than one in ten surviving. If CPR is given and a defibrillator used within three to five minutes of collapse, survival rates can be as high as 70 per cent. DVSA Chief Driving Examiner Mark Winn said: Part of being a safe and responsible driver is knowing what to do in an emergency how to step in and make a real, life-saving difference. Learning CPR and how to use a defibrillator is a very simple skill and adding this into the official learning resource is a great way for DVSA to support the drive to raise awareness. The change was championed by Save a Life Cymru Chair Professor Len Nokes, whose 24-year-old daughter Claire died in 2017 from complications following a cardiac arrest. He said: When Claire, my daughter, had her cardiac arrest, some knowledge of CPR might have made a difference. I dont want any other family to go through this experience. All of us in this partnership hope that by making CPR and how to use a defibrillator part of the theory test, we will be able to significantly increase the number of people who have this life saving awareness. Resuscitation Council UK chief executive James Cant said: 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. Independent road safety campaigner Meera Naran MBE said: Raising awareness of this vital, life-saving skill could increase the chance of survival not only in the immediate aftermath of a road crash, but also in our everyday lives. In Wales, between April 2024 and March 2025 there were 3,120 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases resulting in a resuscitation attempt. Of these, 620 patients 19.8 per cent arrived at hospital with a return of spontaneous circulation. by Austin Bay August 13, 2025 Sometime after 2002, Communist China began subtly transforming organized Latin American drug trafficking syndicates. The gangs, the biggest with the hired guns, money and political connections to rate as cartels, continued their usual felony and smuggling operations but added an additional line of operation: hybrid warfare entities, shape-shifting cousins to Iranian proxy armies and classic guerrilla cadres. The goal of this Chinese-induced transformation: waging plausibly deniable disintegrative and chemical and anarchic war against America on America's own soil. Chemical war? Killer drugs are chemicals. Disintegrative warfare. The term appears in chapter 13 of a book called "World System History: The Social Science of Long-Term Change." In a disintegrative war, a "unitary belligerent becomes increasingly fragmented by secessions." Or, instead of classic territorial secession, social and economic fragmentation spawned and accelerated by corrupt local and state political machines, violent crime encouraged by George Soros-backed district attorneys who put murderers and rapists back on the street, and deadly drugs and more violent criminals crossing open borders The date 2002 is ballpark. "Unrestricted Warfare," written by Chinese strategists Qiao Liang and Wang Xiangsui, mulls weaponizing almost everything human beings do or want to do. But by 2011, China's strategic intent was evident and the cartel connectivity was emerging. According to several sources, fentanyl's so-called "second wave" hit the U.S. in 2007 -- fentanyl cut with heroin. In 2013, overdoses from synthetic opioids like fentanyl increased dramatically. Communist China was and remains the world's primary source of fentanyl. Beijing either ships it directly to the U.S. or smuggles it via Mexico. It's a two for one -- making money while destroying America. In 2017, the National Interest called China's drug strategy vis-a-vis the U.S. the "Reverse Opium War." From 1839-1842, China's Qing dynasty went to war with Britain to stop the Brits from selling opium in China. The drug threatened Chinese social cohesion. China became a failed state. Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, heavens, Washington, D.C. Flailing U.S. cities are the battlegrounds in China's drug war. Illegal drug use and violent crime kill Americans and destroy social cohesion. President Donald Trump, however, has formulated policies and operations to address the disintegrative crises. Washington is a mess -- and Trump has a test case. He has the legal authority to secure D.C. So he's ordered operations. Federal and local law enforcement, backed by a federalized National Guard, will cut D.C.'s murder rate -- one small step toward reintegration. Federal prosecutors will prosecute the lawbreakers. As for adding the military the so-called civil "drug war"? Military capabilities have played secondary but significant roles in the anti-drug war since President Richard Nixon officially declared a "War on Drugs" in 1971. The Pentagon has provided the DEA, FBI and other civilian law enforcement with electronic intercept, intelligence and logistics. Defending against Chinese disintegrative warfare absolutely requires military assets and military personnel. Categorizing drug cartels as terrorist organizations doesn't go far enough. In 2025, they are acting as proxy armies supported by a foreign adversary. Yes, describing a cartel murder spree as terror blurs the distinction between cartel crime and political violence with overt political objectives. The terrorist wants a failed state so he can take political control. The drug lord wants a weak and flailing state so he can enjoy wealth and power without consequence. But in North America 2025, it's a distinction without a strategic difference. Both forward China's strategic goals. Beijing benefits both ways, whether the failed state is Mexico or, perhaps, California? Four firefighters from the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District are supporting efforts to contain the Gifford Fire northeast of Santa Maria, California. Captain David Curns, Engineer Austin Rauh, Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Lingenfelter, and Firefighter Anthony Ferreira are part of the team responding to the wildfire, which has burned 125,000 acres and is 37 percent contained. Authorities say more than 800 structures are currently threatened. In a Facebook post, the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District wished the firefighters, Good luck gentlemen, and return home safe. (The Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District contributed to this story.) The consequences of federal funding cuts to research are no longer abstract. Harvard scientists say their work has been set back by years, after a $2.6 billion reduction in federal support during the Trump administration. This isn't just a story about one university, it's a warning signal for the entire nation's scientific and educational future. The Boston Globe reveals how these funding freezes stalled projects in education, public health, and science. Harvard researchers describe the damage as "potentially irreversible," not just for their own labs but for entire fields of inquiry. Graduate students lost critical training opportunities, while some top minds left academia or even the country, fueling fears of a brain drain. This crisis extends far beyond Harvard. Federal research funding decisions shape the capacity of all universities to innovate and maintain America's global edge in science and technology. As the U.S. slows down, countries like China are ramping up their investments in R&D. The risk is clear: America could lose its leadership in cutting-edge fields, from vaccine development to artificial intelligence. The Biden administration is now trying to reverse course. The Department of Education has called for historic investments in K-12 and higher education, including expanded Pell Grants, student loan forgiveness, and more resources for low-income schools. There's also a renewed push for STEM education and workforce development, targeting the gaps that years of underfunding have left behind. But these efforts are running into stiff political headwinds. At the state level, the battle over education policy is fierce. Republican-led states are prioritizing school choice and restricting what can be taught in classrooms, while Democrats are pushing for more public school funding and diversity initiatives. This polarization means that each election could bring abrupt policy swings, making long-term planning for educators and scientists almost impossible. The stakes are high for ordinary citizens. A Pew Research Center poll shows that 62% of Americans want more federal investment in public schools. Yet public opinion is sharply split on issues like school vouchers and curriculum content. Teachers report mounting stress from political interference and funding uncertainty, which can undermine classroom morale and student outcomes. Why should engaged citizens care? The answer is simple: the nation's prosperity and security depend on a robust, future-oriented education and research system. Cuts to university research don't just affect scientists. They ripple out to the economy, the workforce, and the opportunities available to the next generation. As the U.S. faces growing competition from abroad, deprioritizing education and science could have generational consequences. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, education funding and policy are certain to be front and center. Voters will have a clear choice: double down on investment in America's future, or risk ceding leadership to countries that do. The outcome will shape not just classrooms and labs, but the nation's place in the world for decades to come. Tiros Northern Block Assays Results up to 22.4% TiO2 and 13,074 ppm TREO Tiros North Assay Results up to 22.4% TiO2 Toronto, Aug 14, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Resouro Strategic Metals Inc. ( ASX:RAU ) ( CVE:RSM ) ( 8TX:FRA ) ( RSGOF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce the remaining assay results from the auger drill hole program undertaken at the Northern Block of the Tiros Titanium and Rare Earth Elements ("REE") Project in Minas Gerais, Brazil ("Tiros Project" or "Tiros" or "Project"). Highlights - 5 m at 22.4% titanium dioxide ("TiO2") and 7,146 ppm Total Rare Earth Oxides ("TREO") from 2 m in FT-48; - 3 m at 12.3% TiO2 and 13,074 ppm TREO from surface in FT-53; and - 4 m at 23,9% TiO2 and 7,427 ppm TREO from 8 m in FT-63. The eighteen auger drill holes in this release complement results from previous auger drill holes FT-26 to FT-47, announced in April 2025, which confirmed the presence of a high-grade, nearsurface zone within the Tiros Northern Block. - 16 of the 18 auger holes intercepted significant mineralization. - Assays identified mineralization down to a maximum auger depth of 15 meters. - Despite the excellent results at the Tiros Northern Block, the current focus remains on the Tiros Central Block, where metallurgical test work and engineering studies are underway to support the development of a demonstration plant (refer ASX announcement of 12 August, 2025 / TSXV 11 August, 2025). The Company's focus reflects the logistical and infrastructure advantages of the Tiros Central Block. NEXT STEPS With auger drilling now complete at the Tiros Northern Block, the Company remains focused on advancing metallurgical programs currently in progress at CIT-Senai and SGS Laboratories in Brazil and Canada. ASSAY RESULTS All assay intervals (Refer Table 1*) are determined using cut-off grades of 1,000 ppm for TREO and 6% for TiO2 while the high-grade zone is defined using a cut-off grade of 6,000 ppm for TREO and/or 16% for TiO2. These results from the Northern Permit area of the Tiros Northern Block confirm the continuity of high-grade mineralisation, which is either exposed at surface or covered by a thin layer of overburden. All intervals are interpreted as representing the true thickness of the mineralization. The orebody is horizontal and all holes are vertical. Christopher Eager, Executive Chairman and CEO commented: "Resouro is pleased to report additional high-grade drill intercepts near surface at the Tiros Northern Block. The Northern Block is over 18 km to the north of the Tiros Central Block that hosts the 1.4 billion tonnes NI 43-101 Measured and Indicated Resource at a grade of 12% TiO2 and 4,000 ppm TREO as reported by Resouro in April 2025. These results provide further evidence of the remarkable continuity and size potential of the global exploration target at Tiros." *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/Y0S297A8 About Resouro Strategic Metals Inc. Resouro Strategic Metals Inc. (ASX:RAU) (CVE:RSM) (OTCMKTS:RSGOF) (FRA:8TX) is a Canadian incorporated mineral exploration and development company, listed on the ASX, TSXV, OTC and FSE, focused on the discovery and advancement of economic mineral projects in Brazil, including the Tiros Titanium-Rare Earths Project and the Novo Mundo Gold Project. The Tiros project has 28 mineral concessions totalling 497 km2 located in the state of Minas Gerais, one of the best infrastructurally developed states of Brazil, 350 km from the state capital of Belo Horizonte. Resouro's Mineral Resource Estimate for the Tiros Project contains 165 million tonne of titanium dioxide and 5.5 million tonne of total rare earths oxides within a Measured and Indicated Resource of 1.4 billion tonne at 12% titanium dioxide and 4,000 ppm of total rare earth oxides. Related Companies by Charles Siegel In the first part of this column last month, I set out the ways in which the separation of powers among the three branches of American government is rapidly being eroded. The legislative branch isnt playing its part in the system of checks and balances; it isnt interested in checking Trump at all. Instead it publicly cheers him on. A feckless Republican Congress has essentially surrendered its authority to the executive. Having sidelined Congress entirely, Trump has trained his fire on the other supposedly coequal branch of government. The executive branch is engaged in a sustained, multipronged war against the judicial branch. This war is waged every day across the country, inside courtrooms from coast to coast, and outside courtrooms as well. Inside the courtroom, Trumps Department of Justice is seemingly trying to create its own reality a new kind of reality divorced from both facts and law. It is important to understand here that the DOJ, whose lawyers represent the United States in court every day in hundreds of federal courthouses, is not, despite its name, part of the judicial branch. It is, rather, part of the executive branch. For most of the nations history, however, the DOJ has viewed itself as an independent agency, dedicated to pursuing justice not to advocating for the personal interests of the executive. Its federal law enforcement power was largely wielded independently of Congress or the president. It hasnt always been this way Watergate was a particularly egregious example of DOJ being used by a president for his own corrupt purposes. But after Watergate, bipartisan efforts to insulate DOJ from politics ensued, and these were mostly successful. These efforts involved statutory enactments, such as elements of the Ethics in Government Act and the Federal Election Campaign Act. But equally importantly, they also involved a strong commitment to the same basic understanding of DOJs role, by presidents of both parties and their appointees. Even in Trumps first term, his two attorney generals, Jeff Sessions and Bill Barr, both of whom were stout conservatives, ultimately refused to let DOJ surrender to Trumps commands. This understanding that has prevailed for the last 50 years has been shredded in six months. Even before he took office, Trump announced he would fire Christopher Wray, the head of the FBI whom Trump himself had appointed, more than two years before the end of his ten-year term, prompting Wray to resign before Trump was inaugurated. DOJ has fired scores of experienced, career prosecutors, at least several dozen of whom worked on cases against the January 6th rioters. DOJ even fired staffers who worked on the cases, such as paralegals and administrative assistants, and fired U.S. marshals who were assigned to the cases as well. DOJ dropped corruption charges against Eric Adams, mayor of New York City, after Adams essentially volunteered the citys help with deportation raids if his prosecution was stopped. After DOJ ordered the charges dropped, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Danielle Sassoon, resigned. Its worth noting that Ms. Sassoon is hardly a flaming liberal; she is a registered Republican who belongs to the Federalist Society and clerked for Justice Scalia on the Supreme Court. In her resignation letter to Attorney General Bondi, she said that the order to drop the charges against Adams was inconsistent with my ability and duty to prosecute federal crimes without fear or favor and to advance good-faith arguments before the courts. Several other resignations followed, including the head of DOJs Public Integrity Section and his deputy. The DOJ official who ordered that the charges against Adams be dropped? That would be Emil Bove. Trump and Republican senators just made him a federal appellate judge for life. DOJ has simply abandoned all pretense of independence. At the same time, its credibility inside the courtroom has collapsed. Trumps henchmen got right to work the day he took office. The Project 2025 architects and technicians, the chainsaw-wielding DOGE bros, even the ghoulish Stephen Miller, whose racist xenophobia forced most of his own Jewish family to disown him they all unleashed a torrent of executive orders and actions. They arbitrarily fired tens of thousands of federal workers, eliminated dozens of federal agencies and programs, and deported thousands of people on entirely new and highly questionable grounds. This torrent in turn unleashed a torrent of lawsuits, many of which sought immediate, emergency relief and all which DOJ had to defend in court. This task quickly became very difficult, mainly because so much of what was being challenged had been done on very dubious legal grounds to begin with, but also because hundreds of experienced, career DOJ lawyers were no longer there. In the civil rights division alone, nearly 400 employees left, including over 100 attorneys, once the new administrations intentions became clear. Almost from the start of this administration, then, DOJ has had to defend scores of problematic governmental actions, while having lost hundreds of experienced career attorneys. Perhaps it is not surprising, then, that Trumps DOJ has seemingly adopted the Trump playbook: delay, deflect, obfuscate, lie. On July 21st, the Washington Post published an analysis of DOJs behavior in cases filed against the government since January. It began with two sentences that would have been unthinkable to any lawyer practicing in this country for the last 50 years: President Trump and his appointees have been accused of flouting courts in a third of the more than 160 lawsuits against the administration in which a judge has issued a substantive ruling, suggesting widespread noncompliance with Americas legal system. Plaintiffs say Justice Department lawyers and the agencies they represent are snubbing rulings, providing false information, failing to turn over evidence, quietly working around court orders and inventing pretexts to carry out actions that have been blocked. It may be difficult for non-lawyers to understand just how unusual and appalling this is. The credibility of DOJ lawyers was simply assumed. Indeed, this credibility was such that the courts traditionally accorded them a presumption that their work and litigation representations could be trusted. As Professor Alan Rozenshtein put it, judges start from the premise that the governments stated reasons for its actions are its true reasons and that its factual representations are accurate. Although the presumption is rebuttable, it is not easily displaced, and the burden of proof falls heavily on the party challenging the governments actions. That presumption is in tatters now. Less than a week into the new administration, Professor Steven Vladeck wrote that several of the executive orders issued by Trump in his first days in office staked out legal positions that were, in his words, frankly preposterous and nuts. From there, things got worse: the government wasnt just taking preposterous legal positions. Its lawyers were dissembling before the courts. The deceptions have occurred in all kinds of cases. But DOJs stonewalling and defiance has been most pronounced in immigration cases. The notorious case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia is the worst, though far from the only, example. It would take another entire column to fully detail the governments shifting positions and disingenuous misrepresentations in this case, which is still going on. But DOJs treatment of its own lawyer is uniquely shocking. The government was represented by Erez Reuveni, a career attorney in DOJs immigration litigation division. Reuveni represented the United States for 16 years in that division, across administrations of both parties. He was highly respected, and in fact was promoted by Trumps new Attorney General Pam Bondi to be the acting deputy director of the division. She specifically praised his work in cases DOJ has begun to file against Democratic-controlled sanctuary cities. But after a hearing in the Abrego case on April 4th, he was suspended, and then fired a few days later. What had he done to deserve this? Andrew McCarthy is a former federal prosecutor and longtime columnist for the right-wing National Review. McCarthy is a staunch conservative himself, who regularly criticizes Democratic politicians and what he views as lawfare by liberals. Even he couldnt stomach Reuvenis treatment: he wrote that Reuveni had been fired apparently for admitting the undeniable. He went on: At Fridays hearing, Reuveni argued the Trump administrations position that Judge Xinis has no jurisdiction in the case, both because Abrego Garcia is now in El Salvador (outside the writ of the U.S. courts) and because her directives intrude on the presidents conduct of U.S. foreign policy. These are not convincing legal arguments, but Reuveni gamely made them. Nevertheless, Reuveni incurred the wrath of his superiors by acknowledging to Judge Xinis that (a) the Trump administration had not provided Reuveni with a satisfactory explanation for why Abrego Garcia was arrested and deported to El Salvador with no immigration or judicial court appearances and no due process despite the 2019 court order forbidding repatriation; and (b) he had urged his chain of command to arrange Abrego Garcias return to the United States for removal proceedings consistent with federal immigration law but had been rebuffed. Reuvenis concessions were sensible. I do not believe that Reuveni, who has aggressively pursued the Trump immigration enforcement agenda, left viable arguments on the table. Rather, as Justice Department attorneys are supposed to do, he refrained from knowingly making meritless arguments under difficult circumstances in which the Justice Department opted not to present evidence at the hearing and the judge was outraged by DOJs refusal to take curative action when the administration was obviously in the wrong. In the Justice Department, government attorneys have always been expected to confess error when error had obviously occurred its not a choice, its a mandate of candor toward the court. The Justice Department is not a quotidian law firm representing a quotidian client. Its attorneys are officers of the executive branch whose duty it is to ensure that the law is enforced even the provisions of the Constitution, statutes, rules, and jurisprudence that grant rights and privileges to those against whom the government takes action. That is an everyday aspect of the job a difficult one and, heretofore, a source of pride among those who perform it. All of this is having a predictable effect: judges dont trust DOJ anymore. In July the New York Times compiled excerpts from 48 judges rulings 48! expressing their frustration with DOJ attorneys stated positions and factual representations. It is well worth reading, if crushingly depressing. Harvie Wilkinson, a Reagan appointee who has long been one of the most conservative appellate judges in the country, called the governments position in the Abrego case a path of perfect lawlessness, one that courts cannot condone. A Bush appointee in Minnesota: The court cannot imagine how the public interest might be served by permitting federal officials to flaunt the very laws that they have sworn to enforce. A Biden appointee in Colorado: This sentence staggers. It is wrong as a matter of law and attempts to read an entire provision out of the Constitution. And a Bush appointee on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals: As is becoming far too common, we are confronted again with the efforts of the executive branch to set aside the rule of law in pursuit of its goals. In another piece in the Times, a D.C. federal judge was anonymously quoted as saying that the inability of the people in front of us to give us answers, or their refusal to do so, is very different than in the past, and we talk about it a lot. All of this, again, has occurred in just the first six months of this administration. Beyond lying to federal judges in the courtroom, the government is actively working to make their lives hell outside it. Trump, Bondi, other officials and their spokespeople regularly lambaste federal judges in language that until now would have been far beyond the pale. Its not new, of course, for Trump to do this; in his first term he denounced judges for rulings he didnt like. But the rhetoric has gotten much worse this time around. He called James Boasberg, a highly respected federal judge who was nominated by Obama, but was first nominated to the D.C. Superior Court bench by Bush (and who was Brett Kavanaghs law school roommate), a Radical Left Lunatic. The same day, a Republican congressman introduced articles of impeachment against Boasberg. A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson called one of the judges in the Abrego case unhinged. These are many more such examples. And all of these statements are made with full knowledge that Trumps supporters believe them and may act on them. In just the six weeks between March 1, and April 15, according to the U.S. Marshals Service, 162 federal judges received threats. Two weeks ago, several federal judges shared their experiences at a conference. Judge Jack McConnell, a Rhode Island judge who ruled against the administration in March, said his court had received over 400 vile, threatening, horrible voice mails. He played one of them, which was described in the Times as a furious, profanity-laden tirade that included an explicit assassination threat. Another judge on the panel was Esther Salas from New Jersey. In 2020 a disgruntled lawyer rang her doorbell. When her son Daniel answered it, the lawyer shot and killed him, and wounded her husband as well. Now, several federal judges have reported pizzas being anonymously delivered to their homes, addressed to Daniel. Finally, not content to stoke this outrageous atmosphere of menace, DOJ is actually suing federal judges themselves. In June, DOJ sued every federal judge in Maryland, seeking to overturn a standing order that the district court there had issued. In view of DHS new practice of abrupt, precipitous deportations, and a resulting surge in habeas corpus petitions, the order simply imposes a 48-hour pause of proceedings so that petitions could be properly considered by the court. Thats all the order does, but DOJ calls it outrageous. Needless to say, this kind of suit is unprecedented. The courts judges, forced to hire private counsel, turned to Paul Clement, the leading conservative Supreme Court advocate of the last 20 years. His motion to dismiss the case began as follows: This unprecedented lawsuit is fundamentally incompatible with the separation of powers. If allowed to proceed, the tensions between the branches produced by such a suit would only escalate, with executive depositions of judicial officers (and vice-versa) and cross-examinations exploring judicial motivations and executive necessities in open court. And if this suit succeeds, it will not be the lastand the next suit could name the Fourth Circuit and cause greater disruption still. But this suit is unprecedented for good reason: It is neither justiciable nor meritorious. These are very, very worrisome times for the judicial branch. In part 3 of this column next month, I will focus on how the Supreme Court sadly is also to blame for this disheartening state of affairs. loading......... Golden Triangle Explorer Poised for Major Discovery. Malibu, CA, Aug 14, 2025 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The Ellis Martin Report features an exclusive interview with Kenneth Konkin, CEO and President of Goldstorm Metals Corp. ( CVE:GSTM ) ( GSTMF:OTCMKTS ), a precious and base metals exploration company holding a strategic land position in the prolific Golden Triangle of British Columbia, home to some of the world's largest and highest-grade gold deposits. Goldstorm's Crown and Electrum properties, covering ~16,468 hectares, are positioned directly south of Seabridge Gold's KSM gold-copper project and adjacent to Newmont's Brucejack gold mine. Acquired from Tudor Gold in 2022, these projects are surrounded by proven multi-million-ounce deposits, including the famed Goldstorm deposit-one of the largest gold discoveries in the last three decades. Mr. Konkin-renowned for discovering the 8-million-ounce Valley of the Kings deposit-reports that receding glaciers are revealing new outcrops, visible gold, and extended mineralized strike zones on the Orion Spine. Recent surface sampling identified high-grade silver and porphyry-style mineralization, effectively doubling the known strike length of mineralized trends. Current geophysical programs, including Magnetotelluric (MT) and Induced Polarization (IP) surveys, are targeting the Copernicus Zone to map large conductors and deep-seated intrusive systems. Konkin draws parallels to the early days of Treaty Creek, calling the Crown Property a potential "Treaty Creek 2.0" with both world-class gold-copper porphyry potential and high-grade silver-gold vein systems. With excellent road access and infrastructure advantages-rare for the Golden Triangle-Goldstorm is positioned to accelerate exploration. The company's share price has already climbed from $0.07 to ~$0.17 in recent months, though Konkin notes that broader market awareness is still catching up to the scale of what's emerging. Upcoming catalysts include geochemical results, geophysical interpretations, and drill targeting-all designed to maximize discovery potential while managing exploration capital efficiently. To Listen to the Interview, please visit: https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/74UL9WYW About Goldstorm Metals Corp. Goldstorm Metals Corp. (CVE:GSTM) (OTCMKTS:GSTMF) is a precious and base metals exploration company with a large strategic land position in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, an area that hosts some of the largest and highest-grade gold deposits in the World. The Company's flagship Crown and Electrum projects consist of six concessions that cover approximately a total of 16,469 hectares, 5 of which are directly located south of Seabridge Gold's world-class KSM gold-copper deposits and west of Newmont Corporation's Brucejack gold mine. Goldstorm Metals acquired the Crown and Electrum properties in 2022 from Tudor Gold Corp., which controls the Treaty Creek gold project, which hosts the Goldstorm Deposit; one of the largest gold discoveries in the last 30 years. About The Ellis Martin Report The Ellis Martin Report (TEMR) is an internet based radio program showcasing potentially undervalued companies to an audience of potential retail investors and fund managers that comprise our listening audience. TEMR is broadcasted on the VoiceAmerica Business Channel and The Opportunity Radio Network. CEO and company interviews are paid for by those represented on the program. loading......... Related Companies LifeSight has committed to investing 450 million in the fund initially with the potential for additional investments in the future. The strategy will feature in LifeSights core default funds, meaning the vast majority of members will benefit from this investment. The Schroders Greencoat Global Renewables+ LTAF seeks to provide robust, predictable returns through investment in a diversified portfolio of renewable energy and energy transition-aligned infrastructure assets. The fund targets expected returns slightly above traditional listed equities, offering LifeSight members exposure to high-quality energy transition investments in the UK, Europe, US and other OECD countries. The fund focuses on renewables such as wind and solar as well as other energy transition infrastructure assets such as large scale batteries, energy efficient heat networks and green hydrogen projects. It has an environmental objective to deliver positive environmental impact through climate change mitigation by supporting the energy transition, which is aligned to LifeSights own net zero goal. Andrew Doyle, Lead Investment adviser for LifeSight, said: We are delighted to make this investment on behalf of our members. Our scale as one of the largest master trusts in the UK means we are able to access specialist managers and innovative investments that enhance the portfolios of our members in our core defaults. This strategic investment underscores LifeSight's commitment to sustainable and responsible investing, aligning with global efforts to transition to renewable energy sources, with the aim of delivering strong pension outcomes for members. It also supports our efforts to invest in UK private markets, which is aligned with the recent Mansion House Accord. Tatiana Zervos, Portfolio Manager for Schroders Greencoat, said: LifeSights investment into Schroders Greencoat Global Renewables+ LTAF marks a significant step forward in the DC markets efforts to support the transformation of the energy system in the UK and beyond. Schroders Greencoat is dedicated to investing in this critical asset class; these assets not only offer attractive and diversifying returns relative to investments traditionally offered to DC members, but also provide transparent and tangible sustainability benefits, offering DC members the opportunity to play their part in abating carbon emissions, contribute to energy security and help control the costs paid by consumers. Torsten Bell, Minister for Pensions, said: This is a welcome step to invest more in infrastructure, especially energy infrastructure projects, since the signing of the Mansion House Accord in May. Working together, government and industry will deliver the investment our future prosperity depends on, supporting better outcomes for savers and faster growth for Britain. The report details how Stephen Smith, of Broughton-in-Furness, was handed a suspended jail term after admitting to using scheme funds to make five prohibited loans to entities connected to the schemes sponsoring employer, Marcus Worthington and Company Ltd. TPR also took regulatory action against a second trustee, John Marcus Worthington, who was handed a 29,000 penalty under section 10 of the Pensions Act 1995. Gaucho Rasmussen, Executive Director of Regulatory Compliance at TPR, said: The pensions system depends on savers having confidence that trustees act with integrity, put members interests first, and possess the right knowledge and skills. When trustees flout investment rules or fall short of expected standards, it undermines that confidence. Thats why we acted to replace them and pursued both criminal and regulatory sanctions. With an independent trustee now in place, the focus can shift to restoring scheme funds wherever possible. Trustees play a central role in pensions, and TPR has recently outlined the key traits and behaviours it expects from them, including being highly skilled and diligent. This includes having a good technical knowledge of the requirements of the trustee role, including understanding TPRs ERI guidance, which sets out the restrictions on using scheme funds and the risk of prosecution. TPR expects to see a collective effort to raise standards of trusteeship and through its expanded supervisory approach would ensure all schemes meet the basics set out in its general code. The regulator will also produce guidance on what good trusteeship looks like as part of its broader initiative to raise standards. Case history TPR launched an investigation in 2019 after receiving a breach of law report and uncovered prohibited employer-related loans, including three totalling around 400,000 to Stonewell Property Company Limited, the parent company of the schemes sponsoring employer. Following its investigation, TPR pursued a criminal prosecution against Mr Smith. On 19 October 2022, at Preston Magistrates Court, Mr Smith pleaded guilty to making five prohibited loans. In January 2024, at Burnley Crown Court, Mr Smith was given a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to complete 150 hours of community service and pay 1,000 in prosecution costs. Although it considered prosecuting Mr Worthington, his personal circumstances led TPR to conclude the public interest test for prosecution was not met and instead opened a regulatory case against him. In January 2023, TPRs independent Determinations Panel determined that Mr Worthington should pay a total penalty of 29,000 for six ERI breaches. Ultimately, all scheme funds were lost because the loans were converted into a failed investment. In March, TPR appointed an independent trustee to the scheme. If the scheme is eligible, the independent trustee will be able to pursue a claim from the Fraud Compensation Fund on behalf of members. Making a prohibited employer-related investment can lead to a two-year jail sentence or a fine of up to 50,000. Employer-related loans are absolutely prohibited. Although schemes may invest in employer-related investments, it must be no more than 5% of the current market value of the pension scheme assets. Breaches of these rules are a criminal offence. About the scheme: Worthington Employee Pension Top-Up Scheme is a money purchase trust-based occupational scheme established in 2006. It was set up for long-serving employees to top up other pension benefits members had accrued and, as of 31 March 2018, it had 57 members. The schemes sponsoring employer was Marcus Worthington and Company Ltd (MWC), which entered administration in September 2019 and was dissolved in January 2022. The firm was engaged in construction and civil engineering work and property development. MWCs parent company is Stonewell Property Company Ltd. The Pensions Regulator is the regulator of work-based pension schemes in the UK. Our statutory objectives are to: protect members benefits reduce the risk of calls on the Pension Protection Fund promote, and improve understanding of, the good administration of work-based pension schemes maximise employer compliance with automatic enrolment duties minimise any adverse impact on the sustainable growth of an employer (in relation to the exercise of the regulators functions under Part 3 of the Pensions Act 2004 only) More than a third (37%) of workers aged 55 and above would consider leaving their job if their ability to work flexible hours was significantly reduced, according to research from the Standard Life Centre for the Future of Retirement. One in four (25%) over 55s would take a pay cut in exchange for more flexible working options. The research, based on a survey of 4,000 UK adults, highlights the critical role that flexible working plays in job satisfaction and workforce retention. This is particularly important for older workers, with 26% of 50-64 year olds in the UK economically inactive. Standard Lifes Centre also found that three in 10 (30%) workers over the age of 55 and nearly half (48%) of all workers would think about quitting if their employer limited their ability to work flexibly in different locations, such as working from home. This has significant implications for the economy, especially in light of the Centres recent report, Counting on Experience, which found that sectors key to delivering the UK Governments Industrial Strategy are heavily reliant on workers over 50. Yet, these sectors lose 440,000 over 50s each year through early exits, often due to factors that could be supported by better flexible work. Currently, more than 3.4 million workers aged 50 and over are employed in these strategic sectorsincluding 450,000 aged over 65. The report warns that these industries, from advanced manufacturing to life sciences, are ageing faster than the wider economy. The premature loss of experienced over-50s is estimated to cost the UK economy 31 billion annually in lost output. Policy recommendations. The report highlighted a number of possible policy solutions to support workforce plans and explicitly factors in the needs of over-50s. Key recommendations include: Introduce more flexible working options and improve job design to support longer, more fulfilling working lives. Expand access to occupational health and in-work support for those managing health conditions. Improve availability of midlife training, career guidance and financial advice to help workers plan and adapt. Patrick Thomson, Head of Research Analysis and Policy at the Centre, commented: Flexible work can be the difference between retaining skilled employees or seeing them walk out the door. It can help many workers in their 50s and 60s to balance their work with factors such as health or caring responsibilities. If we want to drive growth in the economy, we cant afford to lose their experience. As people live for longer, its important that employers and policymakers continue to make it easier for people to work for as long as they want or need to, so they can save enough for a good quality retirement. That means normalising age-diverse recruitment, investing in lifelong learning, and offering the flexibility people need to balance work with health and caring responsibilities. At a national level, the benefits are just as clear. Retaining experienced workers boosts productivity, eases pressure on public services, and supports long-term economic growth. Backing older workers isnt just the right thing to doits smart economics SC Cancels Bail; Actor Darshan and Pavithra Gowda Arrested in Renukaswamy Murder Case 2 Bengaluru police arrested Kannada actor Darshan and prime accused Pavithra Gowda on Thursday, August 14, just hours after the Supreme Court cancelled the bail of all accused in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case. According to reports, Darshan was picked up while visiting his wifes residence in Hosakerehalli, reportedly entering through the exit gate to evade media presence. After meeting his wife and son, he was taken into custody. Pavithra was detained from her RR Nagar home by Govindarajnagar police and will be produced before a trial court following a medical examination. Three co-accused Pradoosh S Rao alias Pradoosh, Lakshman M, and Nagaraju R were also arrested soon after the apex courts order. A bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan set aside the Karnataka High Courts December 2024 bail order, describing it as perverse and wholly unwarranted. The court criticised the High Court for granting bail in a mechanical manner, noting that the decision suffered from serious legal infirmity and represented an arbitrary exercise of discretion. The bench also warned the state government against extending any special treatment to the accused in prison. The case involves the alleged abduction and murder of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old pharmacist from Chitradurga, on June 8, 2024. Investigators claim he was tortured for three days in a Bengaluru shed before his body was dumped in a stormwater drain. The alleged motive stems from obscene messages he is said to have sent to Pavithra Gowda. Police have filed a 3,991-page chargesheet naming 17 accused, including Darshan and Pavithra. Stray Dogs in India: A Public Health Crisis and Governance Challenge 2 Stray dogs present a growing challenge in India, driven by a combination of public health risks, safety concerns, and unresolved animal welfare issues. With an estimated 62 million stray dogs in the country, India continues to report one of the highest rates of rabies-related deaths globallyaccounting for approximately 36% of all human rabies deaths worldwide. Despite being a vaccine-preventable disease that has been largely eradicated in developed nations, rabies remains endemic in India, primarily due to the unchecked stray dog population. Beyond rabies, the threat of dog bites is a daily concern. In 2024 alone, India reported over 3.7 million dog bite cases. Children, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas, are increasingly vulnerable. Parents often fear sending their children outdoors due to the possibility of attacks, especially in lower-income neighborhoods where civic infrastructure is lacking. This crisis is not accidentalit is symptomatic of poor urban governance. Unregulated garbage disposal and overflowing dumpsites provide an abundant and steady food source for stray animals. As natural scavengers, dogs survive and multiply in areas where waste is mismanaged. In contrast, cities around the world that store garbage in sealed containers and maintain regular waste collection schedules have effectively eliminated stray dog populations from public spaces. Indias failure to control its stray dog population is further compounded by the poor implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which mandate sterilisation and immunisation of stray dogs, along with the establishment of shelter homes. Civic agencies such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) have repeatedly failed to create adequate shelter infrastructure or enforce existing animal control norms. This governance vacuum has allowed the problem to escalate into a full-blown public health emergency. Recognising the seriousness of the issue, the Supreme Court of India issued a landmark order on August 11, 2025, directing immediate and coordinated action to remove stray dogs from all areas of Delhi-NCR, particularly vulnerable localities and city outskirts. The Court ordered the creation of shelter homes capable of housing at least 5,000 dogs within 68 weeks, complete with personnel, sterilisation, vaccination, and 24/7 CCTV monitoring systems. These shelters are to prevent the release of dogs back onto the streets, a practice that undermines the intent of population control efforts. The order further directs civic authorities across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram to maintain detailed records of captured dogs and to produce them in court. A dedicated helpline is also to be launched within a week to ensure all dog bite incidents are reported and responded to within four hours. Rabies vaccination availability must be transparently tracked and disclosed. The Court has made it clear that this is not a debate between human safety and animal rights. Rather, it is about responsible governance. Humane population control, robust waste management, and the creation of adequate shelter infrastructure must go hand-in-hand. Authorities have also been warned that any attempt by individuals or organisations to obstruct the process will be treated as contempt of court. The urgency of this directive stems from the need to protect human livesparticularly infants and childrenwhile also ensuring that stray animals are treated with dignity and care. The current situation is untenable: stray dogs are forced to fend for themselves in hostile environments, often suffering from disease, injury, starvation, and abuse. Leaving animals to languish on the streets is not kindness; it is systemic neglect. At the heart of this issue lies the need for better urban planning, effective enforcement of public health laws, and sincere commitment from all stakeholders. The Supreme Courts intervention should not be seen as punitive but as a call to actionone that prioritises safety, compassion, and accountability. Unless immediate, humane, and large-scale action is taken, both public safety and animal welfare will continue to suffer. The choice before us is clear: enforce responsible, science-backed population control now, or allow the crisis to deepen with devastating consequences for both people and animals. Supreme Court Revokes Bail of Actor Darshan in Renukaswamy Murder Case 2 The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail granted to Kannada actor Darshan in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case. A bench comprising Justices J. B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan overturned the Karnataka High Courts December 13, 2024 order, ruling that it suffered from serious infirmities and appeared to be a mechanical exercise conducted at a pre-trial stage. The trial court is the appropriate forum to assess such matters. The well-founded allegations, supported by forensic evidence, justify the cancellation of bail, the bench stated. The ruling came in response to an appeal by the Karnataka government challenging the High Courts decision to grant bail to Darshan and his co-accused, including actress Pavithra Gowda. Darshan, Gowda, and several others stand accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old fan Renukaswamy, who allegedly sent obscene messages to Gowda. According to police, the victim was held in a shed in Bengaluru for three days in June 2024 before being killed, with his body later recovered from a drain. The Supreme Court had earlier, on January 24, issued notices to the accused following the state governments plea. A 37-year-old man is in custody after Mobile police arrested him on Aug. 12 in connection with a North Kansas City homicide. Prosecutors charged Ray Von McCall on Aug. 11, just hours after detectives identified him as the shooting suspect, according to a recent release. At approximately 2:57 p.m. that day, 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 McCall Jr., a Mobile native, 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. McCall faces charges in Clay County for homicide in the second degree, armed criminal action, and shooting a firearm at or from a motor vehicle causing physical injury or death. This case is an example of how quickly and efficiently the Metro Squad, outside agencies, and prosecutors can work together to deliver results that protect our communities, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said in the release. 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. He remains in Alabama pending extradition to Missouri. This article was updated on Aug. 14, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. to change McCalls age from 24 to 37 following a corrected press release from the Clay County Prosecutors Office. An hours-long standoff at Birmingham's Harris Homes ended with officers entering the apartment to find the suspect gone. (Carol Robinson) A Birmingham domestic violence suspect who was the subject of an hours-long standoff earlier this week is now in custody. Demetrius McClinton, 32, was taken into custody Tuesday in the 2300 block of 30th Street in Ensley, police announced Wednesday. A former Blount County Jail corrections sergeant has been convicted in the unprovoked beating of an inmate that was captured on the jails surveillance video. A jury on Wednesday found 45-year-old Joseph Ray Snow guilty of second-degree assault and failure of duty or violation of the law, said District Attorney Pamela Casey. The 2022 assault, which happened when Jonathan Carl Calloway was being booked on a public intoxication charge, was investigated by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Sheriff Mark Moon at the time said it appeared Snow snapped. The video, which was played for the jury, showed Snow exit the enclosed desk space in the booking area and violently slam the inmate against a wall. The two struggled and eventually fell to the floor where the altercation continued. The inmate was repeatedly struck, and Snow used a Taser stun gun on the victims head. Two other jail deputies arrived in the booking area. The assault happened Dec. 3, 2022, after Calloway had been arrested by Oneonta police officers and transported to the jail without incident, Casey said. Snows trial began Monday with jury selection. Casey said testimony showed that during his booking, Calloway answered all of the questions asked of him, showed no aggression, and in no way demonstrated a need for physical force. A former Blount County jail sergeant has been convicted in the 2022 unprovoked beating of an inmate during booking. (Contributed) When Snow instructed Calloway to stand with his back against the wall for a booking photo, Calloway complied with Snows instructions. However, while posing for the photograph, Calloway made a crude hand gesture to the camera. That was when Snow walked around the booking station counter, grabbed Calloway and bounced Calloways head against the wall. After throwing the chair following the struggle, Snow walked back over to Calloway who was on the floor with one officer restraining Calloways legs and another officer restraining Calloways upper body. Snow kicked Calloway in the face with his right foot, Case said. Calloway instantly spit out a mouth full of blood and pieces of his teeth. Blood then began pooling under Calloways head. Calloway was bandaged by medical staff at the jail and transported to UAB St. Vincents Blount for examination and treatment. In addition to losing teeth, Calloway sustained a broken nose and lacerations to his head and face as a result of the assault. SBI Special agents Joshua Colquitt and Justin Kinney led the investigation. Snow was booked back into the Blount County Jail following his conviction. He will be sentenced Oct. 21. This incident is not a reflection of the character of the men and women who work in law enforcement, Casey said. This case is an exception. It is not the rule. We are fortunate to have men and women in Alabama who are committed to protecting and serving the citizens of our state as professionals and with dignity, Casey said. A 48-year-old woman was taken into custody in Alabama in the shooting of her husband earlier this week in Georgia. Tracy Lynn White was arrested Thursday morning in Lee County. She is charged with attempted murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and aggravated stalk. Troup County sheriffs officials said she was previously arrested last month on a charge of aggravated assault/family violence. White was booked into the Lee County Jail at 10:31 a.m. on a fugitive for justice warrant. She is being held pending extradition to Georgia. The shooting happened shortly before 8 a.m. Monday on Chipley Mountville Road in Troup County. Deputies arrived to find the victim, 47-year-old Dawendall White, Unresponsive and bleeding from the head. The victim remains in critical condition at an Atlanta hospital. Tyler Cleveland, 22, was shot July 22, 2025, in Montgomery and died the following day. (Contributed) A juvenile has been charged in the July shooting death of a 22-year-old man in Montgomery. The young suspect was taken into custody Monday, Montgomery police announced Wednesday. Police are not releasing his name and age. Killed was Tyler Cleveland. Police were dispatched to the hospital about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22 after Cleveland showed up there with a gunshot wound. Investigators later determined the shooting happened in the 2100 block of Mona Lisa Drive. A motive has not been disclosed. The suspect is being held in the Montgomery County Detention Facility. This John Carroll High School ID card from 1969-70 was swept out to sea by Hurricane Katrina's storm surge. 20 years later, it's being returned to its original owner. (Courtesy of Becky Copeland) Courtesy of Becky Copeland A soaked, faded 55-year-old ID card from John Carroll High School might not seem like much of a find, among the flotsam on a Mississippi barrier island beach, but for the owner its a precious piece of the life she lost in Hurricane Katrina. The story recently unfolded on Facebook after Becky Copeland, who works on the Gulf Islands National Seashore, posted on a group for alumni and friends of the school. In 2023, she said, shed found the ID on Horn Island. But most of the information on it had been illegible, so she put it on a shelf and forgot about it. More recently, she said, shed realized that as it dried out, she could make out more information, including most of a name and most of a birthday. Could anybody help track the person down? It did not take it long at all before the comments went from Maybe Catherine Hamel, Class of 73!?!?! to Found her. Its my friend Anna Hamel sister. She lives in Mississippi!! Anna said she may have lost it in Hurricane Katrina! to Omg thats me!!! All of my belongings blew into the Gulf after Hurricane Katrina. This was in a box In my house which was destroyed!! Catherine Hamel, class of 73, a longtime resident of coastal Mississippi, said it wasnt long before she and Copeland were communicating directly and making plans to get together so that Hamels lost-and-found ID could be placed back in her hands. I was so tickled when she texted me the other day and said that she had found this, said Hamel. I was floored. I said, Its been 20 years since Katrina. That just blows my mind. And I said, you dont know what this means to me. I honestly lost everything. I was one of these ones that came back to a slab. On Thursday Copeland met with Hamel to return the worn identification card. I feel so extremely grateful to have found that ID 2 years ago, and kept it, Copeland stated on her Facebook page after they met. I knew it was something special, I just had no idea how special it truly was. Thank you Cathy for sharing your story with me, Im so glad you get to have a piece of your memories back. Becky Copeland, left, returns a long lost I.D. card to Catherine Hamel. (Photo/Elizabeth Shadle) Elizabeth Shadle Hamel grew up in Birmingham. In the early 90s, she decided it was time to fulfill her dream of living on the water. She moved to Bay St. Louis, a community west of Biloxi that shares its name with a body of water. I had taken early retirement from the phone company where I worked in Birmingham, moved down here, bought this great house that I kind of redid a lot of it myself and just loved it, she said. She didnt experience a serious hurricane threat until Katrina loomed in 2005, and she knew this was going to be different. Before the storm came in, I kept thinking, I had never been through a hurricane. I had been through tornadoes. But Im going through the house, measuring up on the walls, okay, if the water comes in this high, you know, I know where to put stuff up. I had a loft room that I put all my pictures and stuff in. Big mistake. And the last minute was when we decided to leave. I kept thinking It wont be that bad. We went and stayed with some friends of ours, believe it or not, ground zero in Waveland. But they were north of the tracks. So, I mean, we survived. Their house flooded. We were up in the attic. I really had no conception, she said. The people we were staying with, their grown son was there too. He worked with the oil and gas pipeline. That morning he had gotten up early and he was monitoring these things on some application he had. He said, Yall, theres a 90-foot rogue wave out on the other side of the barrier island. And I said, What does that mean? He said, It means we gonna get wet. Sure enough. As for many, the realization of just how bad the storm surge had been took a while to comprehend. After the storm, that afternoon, he walked down to the railroad track, Hamel said. He came back, his face was white. He said, Everything south of the railroad track is gone. The houses, everything. Even then, she was thinking about her home in terms of flood damage. The next day we made it down there, and Im climbing over the debris piles [acting] like there was going to be a street sign left. But I realized when I got about halfway down that everything was gone. The only reason I recognized my street, because you couldnt even see the streets, they were piled so high with debris, is we lived right across the street from [well-known jazz clarinetist] Pete Fountains house. He had a big windmill in his front yard. And I had almost made it down to the windmill. It was laying over, and I thought, Oh, crap. And I looked back over my shoulder, and I realized my whole street, there was nothing left. Well, almost nothing. I was raised Catholic, and my mom had given me a statue, of the Blessed Mother, many years ago. And I had it up on a little shelf in my upstairs room. And when I walked up to my driveway, here is the statue laying on her back. Not a chip, not a scratch, nothing. And I thought, thats a sign. But of course, at the time, it didnt register. I mean, I was in a state of shock for six months. It was a long recovery, and part of it was processing how much shed lost. People kept saying, Well, its just stuff, youre okay, she said. I said, But y all dont realize it was my stuff. It was my first 50 years. Yeah, it is just stuff, but its stuff that really cant be replaced. Catherine Hamel still resides in coastal Mississippi, 20 years after losing her home in Hurricane Katrina. (Courtesy of Catherine Hamel) Courtesy of Catherine Hamel The house was rebuilt. She sold it after a divorce and decided she didnt want to be quite that close to the water anymore, so she moved to Diamondhead, another small city off the inland side of the same bay. About five years ago, Copeland came to work for the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a federal preserve thats split between the Florida Panhandle and the Mississippi Coast. The Mississippi portion consists of a series of barrier islands in a rough line west of Alabamas Dauphin Island. Shes a wildlife biologist and regularly spends her days on those barrier island shorelines, where she and her co-workers spend a lot of time studying wildlife but also devote days to picking up trash. Theyre beautiful beaches, but we get so much marine debris that washes up, she said. And we have, you know, a special program that we actually have funding for that. Weve removed thousands of pounds of marine debris. We have special days where we go out and we just pick up beach trash. So its not surprising to see kind of, you know, trash, quote unquote, if you want to call it that, and then, you know, treasures. Its not that unusual to find messages in bottles, she said. Theyre mostly fairly recent, and they mostly were tossed into the water somewhere relatively close, like Gulf Shores. But its still fun to notify the people who sent them, she said. If you throw something out into the Gulf, it typically comes back onto a Gulf beach, she said. Its my experience on working in the Gulf Coast, but its nice. I love the dichotomy of being out in wilderness -- you know, its serene, its beautiful -- and then I occasionally come across these items that connect me with a person that Ive never met, I dont know anything about. And, you know, its cool. Its a cool mix of both things. I get to enjoy nature and being out there, and then these little things that remind me of the people back on the mainland. Shes developed an eye for things that might have a story behind them, like Hamels old ID. I was doing nesting shorebird work when I found it, she said. It was March 20, 2023. And so Im looking at the ground because Im looking for snowy plover nests. Those nests are little more than small depressions in the sand, requiring a close look to spot. I just saw it and I picked it up and I thought, Oh my goodness, Copeland said. I was so taken aback by the date of it, in 1969. I was like, wow, this is over 50 years old. Its a high school from a state away. Nobody goes to the beach with their 50-year -old high school student ID. She said that over the last two years, whenever somebody asked her what her coolest beach find was, shed mention the ID. Often they were surprised shed even kept it, since the owners name had been illegible. There was something about it, she said. I couldnt even imagine what the story truly was like. The story of how it got there is truly spectacular. But I knew that I shouldnt throw it away. I was like, There is a reason why this came here. Hamel and Copeland said theyd arranged to meet soon so that Copeland could return the ID. Both said they hope that the excitement around the find brings a little attention to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a public asset that many people might not fully appreciate. The Mississippi district, I just find its such an undervalued and hidden gem, almost, said Copeland. Its so valuable to the Mississippi Gulf Coast community, I feel, because you have the boating community that really frequents these islands. We have these five barrier islands out in the Gulf, and theyre a beautiful natural resource. We have nesting shorebirds. We have nesting sea turtles. We have beautiful pristine wetlands out there. And then just the nature of the barrier islands in general, they truly are a barrier to help us protect the mainland against storms. They take the brunt of it for us. More about the preserve can be found at a National Park Service website dedicated to them. Hamel, who still has family in Birmingham, said shes blown away by Copelands thoughtfulness. How many people would do something like that? she said. How many people would pick up a piece of trash on Horn island and say, This must mean something to somebody, and then bring it home and two years later start to search for me? Its a lesson in the power of the storm, but also a lesson in hope. She thinks about how it must have played out. Shed left the ID in a little metal box with other mementos. The box must have been wafted out to sea as the surge receded. My class ring was in that box. So I said, Keep looking, said Hamel. And thats the crazy thing, I was in Bay St. Louis, and this is all the way out to Horn Island. It is crazy: Horn Island starts about 35 miles east of Bay St. Louis and its far end is more like 45 miles away. But the force of that Katrina surge was massive. The guy across the street from me was a physician, a retired physician, said Hamel. He had a safe in his home. They found his safe out on Cat Island. That would be about 15 miles away from its point of origin. Theyll be finding this stuff after Im dead and gone, said Hamel. Madison mayoral candidates Renae Bartlett, M. Margi Daly and Steve Smith to fill. City elections will be held Aug. 26. Contributed AL.com Three people want to become the next Mayor of Madison, AL. Mayor Paul Finley announced that he would not seek a fourth term in October 2024 to spend more time with his family. Finsley has served as mayor on and off since 2008, opting not to seek reelection in 2012 but was elected again in 2016 and 2020. The position is open for Ranae Bartlett, M. Margi Daly or Steve Smith to fill. Whichever candidate wins must tackle the most pressing problems facing the city. City elections will be held Aug. 26. Each candidate was asked the same 10 questions. Answers are below with some grammatical editing: How did your previous roles and background prepare you to lead Madison? Ranae Bartlett (Madison City Council President Pro Tempore): My diverse experience sets me apart. As a City Council member since 2020, Ive served as Finance Committee Chair, Council President, and President Pro Tempore, gaining deep insight into Madisons operations. My school board tenure equipped me to manage large budgets and plan strategically for growth, earning me the All State School Board award in 2020. My legal background, including clerking for the Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and being Assistant General Counsel of Wal-Mart Stores, honed my ability to navigate complex challenges with precision. As a nonprofit leader, Ive built community programs like the Madison City Chess League, fostering engagement and education. This combination of professionalism, public service and voluntarism has prepared me to lead this city as Mayor. M. Margi Daly: Ive been elected three times in my previous city, with three times our population. Ive attended more Council meetings than any current elected official in the last three years. Steve Smith: For more than 5 years, Ive served Madison as a City Administrator, two-term City Councilman, former Finance Chair, and Council President. Ive managed budgets, overseen infrastructure projects, and worked directly with residents on issues that matter mostfrom traffic and public safety to parks and schools. My experience as a small business owner taught me fiscal responsibility and the importance of customer service, while my 30+ years living here have given me a deep understanding of our communitys values and needs. I know how Madison worksbecause Ive been helping make it work for decades. What do you consider your most significant accomplishment to date, and how will it guide your city leadership? Bartlett: I grew up in a modest household where I was the first in my family to graduate from high school. I was able to graduate from college and law school without any debt by working multiple jobs and obtaining scholarships. This experience taught me to live within my means and to be cautious about spending and debt. When I was first elected to the Madison City Council in 2020, I championed the city hiring an independent financial advisor to help city officials analyze the financial implications before major decisions were made. This was the first time the city had ever hired this type of professional, and it was long overdue. Daly: I educated the community about the tyranny of a City Manager government, winning the election with 73% of the votes. I will put residents above special interests. I have no affiliations with any special interests or NGOs. Smith: One of my proudest accomplishments is working alongside Mayor Paul Finley and our city team to implement strategic infrastructure and public safety investments that have kept Madison one of the safest and most desirable cities in Alabama. This experience reinforced that progress comes from collaboration, planning, and listening to residents. As Mayor, Ill continue leading with a balanced approachaddressing urgent needs while planning for long-term growth. Whats something unique you bring to this position? Bartlett: My legal background helps me analyze complex issues, negotiate and advocate for the city, and communicate effectively. Daly: I have no special interest donations and only constituents to answer to. The health and safety of the residents will be my top priority. Smith: I bring the combination of deep local roots and high-level city management experience. Im not learning Madison from the outsideIve been in the trenches solving its challenges. My unique perspective comes from being both a policymaker and an administrator. What do you think is the biggest problem facing Madison in 2025? Bartlett: Growth. This entire region is growing faster than anywhere else in Alabama. Madison must work with Huntsville, Madison County, and Limestone County to manage growth responsibly and ensure we receive our fair share of state support. That means focusing on roads, schools, and infrastructure as Space Command, the FBI, and other federal assets expand here. Daly: The current and future taxpayers owe $1,270,000,000 payoff is in 2054. The continuing borrowing and waste will stop. I attended the annual audit, where I found this hidden debt. I will make all spending, debt available on our website; nothing will be hidden from the residents. Smith: Growth. Madisons rapid expansion is exciting, but it creates challengesfrom traffic congestion to housing affordability and infrastructure strain. We cant slow growth, but we can manage it wisely. The key will be planning ahead so we preserve the qualities that make Madison special while making sure our infrastructure, public services, and quality of life keep pace. Madisons rapid population and economic growth present major infrastructure pressures. How would your administration manage traffic congestion and aging infrastructure? Bartlett: Planning and sound decision-making are key in managing traffic congestion and aging infrastructure. Some of our pressures are self-inflicted when we have continued to add subdivisions on two-lane roads without a plan or the ability to widen them. This needs to stop. Partnerships with Huntsville and Madison County are necessary to share the costs of projects, and one of the best examples I can point to where we are doing that is Slaughter Road. Madison also needs to work with Limestone County to find ways to partner on projects that are mutually beneficial to our residents. We need to make data-driven decisions that prioritize road projects with the greatest impact on residents time spent in their vehicles. While funding infrastructure projects is always a challenge, I am opposed to raising taxes. Madison residents pay enough in taxes, but all the money we send to Montgomery or DC is not returning to North Alabama. It is imperative that we advocate and lobby for state and federal funding to help our entire region build necessary infrastructure for anticipated growth from Space Command and the Golden Dome. Daly: Ill collaborate with residents and City staff to prioritize road improvements. Ill hire a Public Works night crew with proper lighting to avoid traffic disruptions during peak hours. I wont close multiple main arteries simultaneously. An app will be added with traffic alerts and train warnings. This will start on day 1 not left till 4 months before the next election. Smith: I will fight for state and federal infrastructure funding, invest in targeted road expansions, and fix known choke points. Ill also work with regional partners to ensure our traffic planning aligns with broader development. At the same time, well address aging infrastructure with a long-term maintenance schedule so were not just building new roadswere taking care of the ones we have. How would you manage other issues that come from growth, like governing a growing population, rising costs to buy a home, etc.? Bartlett: Growth is both exciting and challenging. My management style is collaborative, and I recognize that Madison is part of a region that is experiencing many of the same challenges from growth. Solutions can involve collaborating to lower the costs of shared services and taking advantage of the economies of scale in purchasing. The key to collaboration is building trust and relationships with other leaders. Daly: Ive worked in a government three times our size, so itll be easy. Ill request that the new Council remove the grocery tax. Ill dedicate current employees to constituent services, assisting with property tax appeals and ensure all State and Federal assistance programs are available. Smith: Managing growth means balancing development with livability. Ill work to ensure we have the infrastructure, schools, and public safety resources needed to support a larger population. On housing, we need policies that encourage diverse housing options so young families, retirees, and working professionals can all afford to call Madison home. How will you balance fiscal responsibility with necessary investments like infrastructure, parks, and schools within the citys budget? Bartlett: Fiscal responsibility and the debt load the city is carrying is among the top concerns of residents. At the same time, residents want to see recreational opportunities improve and green spaces expand, and they appreciate that Madison is a safe place to live and raise a family. Its important for Madison to live within its means, and with comprehensive planning, Madison can stay on track for success. Daly: The debt of $1,270,000,000 owed by current and future residents through 2054 wont be added to. Schools will be receiving plenty of federal/State funds; we only need to utilize them correctly. Smith: We will prioritize needs based on long-term strategic planning, not short-term politics. That means continuing responsible budgeting practices, protecting dedicated revenue for schools, and seeking outside funding wherever possible. Every investment will be weighed against its return for residentswhether thats in safety, quality of life, or economic stability. Would you revisit the possibility of bringing on a city manager? Bartlett: No. The voters overwhelmingly rejected the proposal to have a council-manager form of government. That decision should be final. Daly: No, I was the main reason the community was educated on this totalitarian type of government that silenced the voters voices. Smith: I do not support revisiting the city manager issue. A recent attempt, driven by an outside group, cost our city over $20,000 without delivering a benefit to residents. Madison is best served by a mayor directly accountable to its people, not by an unelected administrator influenced by outside interests. How have you directly engaged with residents during your campaign? How will you do that during your time as mayor to address concerns before they escalate? Bartlett: I have canvassed neighborhoods meeting residents in their home, attended meet-and-greets and forums, returned emails, and talked to residents on the phone. I plan to be out in the community and at local businesses, not just in my office at City Hall. Leadership is being present and listening intently, and I will maximize opportunities to be with the people who elect us to serve. I also plan to distribute a newsletter that highlights the things we are working on for the residents of Madison. Daly: Ive been educating our community about our debt and how special interests were prioritized over the communitys well-being. Ill be available daily, have an open-door policy, and a constituent-friendly City Hall. Ill live-stream all meetings with a public comment section on Zoom. Smith: Throughout my campaign, Ive been out in neighborhoods, meeting residents where they areat community events, in local businesses, and at their front doors. Listening is the most important part of leadership. As Mayor, Ill hold regular town halls, maintain open office hours, and use multiple communication platforms so residents can share their concerns. What main concerns are you hearing from residents? How will you address them? Bartlett: Residents have told me over and over that their top concern is the lack of infrastructure to handle the explosive growth our city has experienced. This results in traffic congestion negatively impacting the quality of life for residents. I will use our comprehensive plan to manage growth and improve our infrastructure which ensures Madison is moving responsibly into the future. Daly: The main concerns are roads, traffic, infrastructure, maintaining state school rankings, and raising national standards. The current administration is diminishing parental rights by avoiding informing parents in trauma situations. An MPD policy allows for avoiding notifying parents or guardians, putting the NGO over parents. Infrastructure and traffic issues will be prioritized, with hiring consultants halted and public works expanded with a night shift. Ill request the council to change the policy from may to must inform parents or guardians, as I requested when the policy was approved by the current council. Smith: The top concerns I hear are traffic congestion, school capacity, and maintaining quality of life as we grow. My plan directly addresses these: a multi-phase traffic improvement strategy, protecting and expanding school funding, and investing in parks, recreation, and public safety. By focusing on these priorities, we can ensure Madison remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Caleb Whisnand Sr. will be charged with capital murder in the death of his 5-week-old son, Caleb "C.J." Whisnand Jr. An Alabama man has pleaded guilty in the 2021 killing of his newborn son. Caleb Michael Whisnand Sr., 37, pleaded guilty to capital murder in the 2021 blunt force trauma death of his 5-week- old son, C.J., said Montgomery County District Attorney Azzie Oliver on Thursday. He also pleaded guilty to falsely reporting to law enforcement that the child had been kidnapped. Whisnand, who was set to go to trial Sept. 8, escaped a possible death penalty by entering a plea and will spend the rest of his life in state prison without the possibility of parole. He also waived all appeals. A parents primary duty is to love and protect their child, Oliver said Thursday. The fact that this baby boy was senselessly and brutally murdered by his own father shocks the conscience and is the ultimate betrayal of trust. This poor child only got to live 32 days on earth. He was robbed of the opportunity to grow and experience childhood, and all that life has to offer, the district attorney said. Im thankful his killer will spend every day of the rest of his life behind bars and will never have the opportunity to harm another child. The investigation began on the night of Monday May 10, 2021, when Whisnand called 911 from the Circle K on Wetumka Highway in Montgomery County to report C.J. missing. Caleb Whisnand Jr. (ALEA) The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, in the early-morning hours of May 11, 2021, issued a missing child alert in C.J.s disappearance. Read full coverage of the case here At an earlier court hearing, Montgomery County Sheriffs Investigator John Shepherd chronicled the events leading up to C.J. being reported abducted at 10:49 p.m. on May 10. Lawmen responded that night to the Circle K. Shepherd was among the many lawmen who responded to the scene, and noticed there was a infant seat base but no infant seat in the fathers white Ford Escort. We viewed video footage at Circle K, Shepherd testified. We did not see anybody take the child from that location. That video showed Whisnand had arrived at the store at 10:28 p.m., roughly 20 minutes before he reported the abduction. The father told investigators he left his home with the baby the previous Saturday night and went to work on a friends car, and later another friends car on Sunday. At one point, he said he had left the baby with a friend. He also said the wife of another friend had watched the baby while he worked on their vehicle. There was no specific timeline of Whisnands actions and whereabouts on Sunday. By tracking his cell phone, authorities were able to pinpoint locations for him multiple times on Monday in the hours leading up to him reporting the boys disappearance. The last time investigators saw C.J. alive on video was at 12:43 p.m. that Monday at a Montgomery County Walmart. Whisnand visited multiple locations on Monday, all in the Montgomery County area, but the one unusual location was Lowndes County. He didnt initially tell investigators he had been to Lowndes County, but when confronted with his cell phone data, Whisnand said he had made a drug run. They also had video of Whisnand withdrawing money from a bank to pay back money he owed to his brother. In that video, he was wearing a green shirt and blue jeans. In a video later that day, after he returned from Lowndes County, investigators saw Whisnand putting gas in his vehicle at a Shell Station. That video showed Whisnand throwing a Mickey Mouse pacifier and a childs sock into the garbage can, as well as a green shirt the father had been seen wearing in the earlier video. At that point, Shepherd said, the father was wearing a red shirt. I felt something was amiss,' Shepherd said. All of the items were recovered from the trash can. The infant seat and C.J.s diaper bag were not found. Investigators said Whisnands memory seemed spotty, and his behavior semi-cognizant and erratic. He was showing signs of sleep deprivation. He kept telling me he was tired, Shepherd said. Investigators took Whisnand to another room at headquarters to let him nap. He slept about six hours, Shepherd said, and seemed more coherent when he awoke. Caleb Whisnand, Sr., and Angela Gardner, parents of Caleb Michael Whisnand, Jr., ask for help in finding their missing infant son during a news conference at the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, Wednesday, May 12, 2021, in Montgomery, Ala. The father will face capital murder charges in the death of his 5-week-old son. Montgomery County Sheriff Derrick Cunningham said the body of 5-week-old Caleb Whisnand, Jr. was found Wednesday night in a rural area of neighboring Lowndes County. The infants father, Caleb Whisnand, Sr. was arrested shortly after on manslaughter charges. (Mickey Welsh/The Montgomery Advertiser via AP) AP Two days after the boys disappearance, on Wednesday, May 12, Whisnand and CJs mother, Angela Gardner, took part in a press conference. The boys father told reporters, I dont remember a lot, but I did remember I was breaking up, ya know, with the cops. If anybodys got anything, any places that I could have gone, you know who you are. It was after the press conference that investigators recovered C.J.s remains and his father was charged in the death. Shepherd said investigators requested the parents hold the press conference to help them locate C.J. Afterward, while again being interviewed by investigators, that Whisnand agreed to take them to C.J.s body. He led the investigators straight to a shallow grave, Shepherd said. At one point, the investigator said, Whisnand told them C.J. had been unresponsive when he left his brothers house and he tried to do CPR. When he couldnt revive him, he took his sons body to Lowndes County. When C.J.s body was found, Shepherd said, there were no obvious signs of foul play. Once the dirt was washed away at the medical examiners office, he said, there were some visible injuries. Forensic pathologist Dr. David Rydzewski of the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences testified that C.J. had a complex skull fracture to the right side of his head that was 1 to 2-inches long. He said the child also had bleeding over the entire surface of his skull, as well as subdural hemorrhaging. There was damage to his optic nerves and a broken right tibia. He said the only way C.J.s death could be an accident is if the child had been in a severe car accident and he was unrestrained or he fell from a fifth floor. He said the death could not have occurred from an everyday accident. The district attorney thanked Chief Deputy District Attorney Michele Davidson, and Deputy District Attorneys Marianalyn Coleman and Jalen Johnson for their work in the preparation of the case. She also thanked Shephard and sheriffs Chief Deputy Kevin Murphy and the FBI for their work on the case. Urban Impact, a longtime Birmingham nonprofit, is among the group of agencies tapped by a major bank to expand access to small businesses in underserved communities across Alabama. Urban impact received a $200,000 grant from JPMorganChase. The money is part of the banks $2 million total commitment to Alabama-based organizations through its new Alabama Capital Access Collaborative initiative. Urban Impact will use its grant to build its Birmingham Community Impact Fund. The program provides micro loans to small businesses ranging from $500 to $25,000. The program was launched in 2022 as a wholly owned entity of Urban Impact, which is governed by an independent five-member board. This collaborative will allow us to deepen our reach and expand tools for entrepreneurs who are often overlooked but are essential contributors to the local economy, said Ivan Holloway, executive director of Urban Impact. The Milken Institute will facilitate the first phase of the initiative by helping organizations identify operational needs and develop customized growth plans. Our latest commitment, alongside the establishment of the Alabama Capital Access Collaborative, will not only help strengthen the local small business ecosystem, but also deepen JPMorganChases commitment to the state, Victoria Adams Phipps, the banks vice president of global philanthropy, said in an announcement. Other participating Alabama organizations include: The Birmingham Business Resource Center Opportunity Alabama Bronze Valley Camino Loan Fund Commonwealth National Bank Neighborhood Concepts Sabre Finance A man was killed in a domestic shooting at Lakeshore Ridge Apartments in south Birmingham. (Carol Robinson) A man was shot to death inside a south Birmingham apartment in what police say was a domestic incident. The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the victim as Demetrice Darnell Beverly. He was 39 and lived in Birmingham. South Precinct officers responded shortly after 9 p.m. Wednesday to a 911 call of a person shot in the 1100 block of Lakeshore Ridge, which is Lakeshore Ridge Apartments. Police went into the apartment and found Beverly unresponsive in the apartments bedroom. He had been shot and was pronounced dead on the scene at 9:26 p.m. by Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service. Sgt. LaQuitta Wade said a female witness is the person who called 911. The shooter, also an adult male, was taken into custody in the parking lot. A man was killed in a domestic shooting at Lakeshore Ridge Apartments in south Birmingham. (Carol Robinson) Wade said the deadly shooting stemmed from a domestic incident. Multiple family members of the victim and the female witness gathered outside the yellow crime scene tape. Beverly is Birminghams 51st homicide this year, and the fourth since Friday. Anyone with additional information is asked to call detectives at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. A Mexican-inspired restaurant concept is coming to Birminghams Urban Supply in Parkside. De Nada is set to open early next year at 1300 Second Ave. S. Hiring is expected to begin late this year, with up to 25 full-time positions and 15 part-time jobs. Taking its name from the Spanish phrase meaning youre welcome, De Nada aims for a sense of hospitality and community, as well as an exciting menu. The restaurant will feature a vibrant interior within 4,582 square feet, designed with a rustic-modern aesthetic by CCR Architecture & Interiors. The look will feature neutral tones, greenery, and thoughtful architectural touches throughout. Booths and large tables will cater to individual diners and parties, with 130 indoor seats, bar seating and a patio. Building will be overseen by Blackstone Construction. The restaurant will feature a full-service bar with a curated cocktail program, emphasizing margaritas. The dining area will also have a special viewing room, as well as a churro window for fresh to-go treats for the walking traffic in Urban Supply. Diners can sample familiar Mexican classics like queso dip, chimichangas and street tacos, to playful, modern creations like the Hot Honey Fried Chicken Taco. The owners, the Martinez family, also operate Hacienda Mexican Grill, a traditional Mexican restaurant in Indian Springs Village since 2004. De Nada is built on the belief that great food and genuine hospitality bring people together, owner Armando Martinez said. Were creating a space that feels approachable yet elevateda place you can visit with your family after a Barons game, or for a date night out with margaritas and tacos. Its about connection, comfort, and a bit of fun. At the heart of it all is our guiding motto: buena gente, buena comidagood people, good food. Thats what De Nada is all about. Urban Supply is the latest project of downtown developer Orchestra Partners and combines the companys signature concerns - restoration of historic properties, innovative use of outdoor spaces and the creation of walkable experiences. Fairway Social Birmingham and The Lodge are the newest openings at Urban Supply. Were thrilled to have De Nada join the Urban Supply family, Orchestra Partners Principal Hunter Renfroe said. The energy and warmth of the concept perfectly match our vision for the Parkside District: A walkable, community-driven hub where food, culture, and connection thrive.